bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Delineating the epilepsy phenotype of NGLY1 deficiency
Authors: Levy Rebecca J. , Frater Christina H. , Gallentine William B. , Phillips Jennifer M. , Ruzhnikov Maura R.
Published: March 2022

We delineated the phenotypic spectrum of epilepsy in individuals with NGLY1 deficiency from an international cohort. We collected detailed clinical and electroencephalographic data from 29 individuals with bi‐allelic (likely) pathogenic variants in NGLY1 as part of an ongoing prospective natural history study. Participants were evaluated in‐person at a single center and/or remotely. Historical medical records were reviewed. Published cases were included for comprehensive phenotyping. Of 29 individuals (mean 11.4 years, range 3–27 years), 17 (58.6%) participants had a history of epilepsy. Seizure onset was in early childhood (mean 43 months, range 2 months to 19 years). The most common seizure types were myoclonic and atonic. Epilepsy course was variable, but 35.2% (6/17) of participants with epilepsy achieved seizure freedom. The most common medications included levetiracetam, valproate, lamotrigine, and clobazam. Electroencephalogram (EEGs) were abnormal in 80% (12/15) of participants with or without epilepsy, although encephalopathy was uncommon. There was a trend in neurodevelopmental outcomes that participants with epilepsy had more developmental delays. In summary, epilepsy is common in NGLY1 deficiency. Over half of the participants had a history of epilepsy and nearly all had EEG abnormalities indicating an increased risk of epilepsy. This work expands the electroclinical phenotype of NGLY1 deficiency and supports a high clinical suspicion for seizures. Some of the more common seizure types (epileptic spasms, myoclonic, and atonic seizures) can be subtle and require counseling to ensure early recognition and treatment to ensure the best possible outcomes. Despite transient liver enzyme abnormalities in this disorder, hepatically metabolized medications were well tolerated.
Pediatric 129Xe Gas‐Transfer MRI—Feasibility and Applicability
Authors: Willmering Matthew M. , Walkup Laura L. , Niedbalski Peter J. , Wang Hui , Wang Ziyi , Hysinger Erik B. , Myers Kasiani C. , Towe Christopher T. , Driehuys Bastiaan , Cleveland Zackary I. , Woods Jason C.
Published: March 2022

Background

129Xe gas‐transfer MRI provides regional measures of pulmonary gas exchange in adults and separates xenon in interstitial lung tissue/plasma (barrier) from xenon in red blood cells (RBCs). The technique has yet to be demonstrated in pediatric populations or conditions.

Purpose/Hypothesis

To perform an exploratory analysis of 129Xe gas‐transfer MRI in children.

Study Type

Prospective.

Population

Seventy‐seven human volunteers (38 males, age = 17.7 ± 15.1 years, range 5–68 years, 16 healthy). Four pediatric disease cohorts.

Field Strength/Sequence

3‐T, three‐dimensional‐radial one‐point Dixon Fast Field Echo (FFE) Ultrashort Echo Time (UTE).

Assessment

Breath hold compliance was assessed by quantitative signal‐to‐noise and dynamic metrics. Whole‐lung means and standard deviations were extracted from gas‐transfer maps. Gas‐transfer metrics were investigated with respect to age and lung disease. Clinical pulmonary function tests were retrospectively acquired for reference lung disease severity.

Statistical Tests

Wilcoxon rank‐sum tests to compare age and disease cohorts, Wilcoxon signed‐rank tests to compare pre‐ and post‐breath hold vitals, Pearson correlations between age and gas‐transfer metrics, and limits of normal with a binomial exact test to compare fraction of subjects with abnormal gas‐transfer. P ≤ 0.05 was considered significant.

Results

Eighty percentage of pediatric subjects successfully completed 129Xe gas‐transfer MRI. Gas‐transfer parameters differed between healthy children and adults, including ventilation (0.75 and 0.67) and RBC:barrier ratio (0.31 and 0.46) which also correlated with age (ρ = −0.76, 0.57, respectively). Bone marrow transplant subjects had impaired ventilation (90% of reference) and increased dissolved 129Xe standard deviation (242%). Bronchopulmonary dysplasia subjects had decreased barrier‐uptake (69%). Cystic fibrosis subjects had impaired ventilation (91%) and increased RBC‐transfer (146%). Lastly, childhood interstitial lung disease subjects had increased ventilation heterogeneity (113%). Limits of normal provided detection of abnormalities in additional gas‐transfer parameters.

Data Conclusion

Pediatric 129Xe gas‐transfer MRI was adequately successful and gas‐transfer metrics correlated with age. Exploratory analysis revealed abnormalities in a variety of pediatric obstructive and restrictive lung diseases.

Level of Evidence

2

Technical Efficacy Stage

2
Hotspots for SARS‐CoV‐2 Omicron variant spread: Lessons from New York City
Authors: Ramírez Juan D. , Castañeda Sergio , Ballesteros Nathalia , Muñoz Marina , Hernández Matthew , Banu Radhika , Shrestha Paras , Chen Feng , Shi Huanzhi ,   PSP Study Group, van Bakel Harm , Simon Viviana , Cordon‐Cardo Carlos , Sordillo Emilia M. , Paniz‐Mondolfi Alberto E.
Published: March 2022

The coronavirus disease‐2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic is still challenging public health systems worldwide, particularly with the emergence of novel SARS‐CoV‐2 variants with mutations that increase their transmissibility and immune escape. This is the case of the variant of concern Omicron that rapidly spread globally. Here, using epidemiological and genomic data we compared the situations in South Africa as the epicenter of emergence, United Kingdom, and with particular interest New York City. This rapid global dispersal from the place of first report reemphasizes the high transmissibility of Omicron, which needed only two weeks to become dominant in the United Kingdom and New York City. Our analyses suggest that as SARS‐CoV‐2 continues to evolve, global authorities must prioritize equity in vaccine access and continued genomic surveillance. Future studies are still needed to fully unveil the biological properties of Omicron, but what is certain is that vaccination, large‐scale testing, and infection prevention efforts are the greatest arsenal against the COVID‐19 pandemic.
Gray matter volume reduction in the emotional brain networks in adults with anosmia
Authors: Lee Suji , Kim Jungyoon , Kim Bong Jik , Kim Rye Young , Ha Eunji , Kim Shinhye , Hong Seung‐No , Lyoo In Kyoon , Kim Dae Woo
Published: March 2022

Loss of olfaction, or anosmia, frequently accompanies emotional dysfunctions, partly due to the overlapping brain regions between the olfactory and emotional processing centers. Here, we investigated whether anosmia was associated with gray matter volume alterations at a network level, and whether these alterations were related to the olfactory‐specific quality of life (QOL) and depressive symptoms. Structural brain magnetic resonance imaging was acquired in 22 individuals with postinfectious or idiopathic anosmia (the anosmia group) and 30 age‐ and sex‐matched controls (the control group). Using independent component analysis on the gray matter volumes, we identified 10 morphometric networks. The gray matter volumes of these networks were compared between the two groups. Olfactory‐specific QOL and depressive symptoms were assessed by self‐report questionnaires and clinician‐administered interviews, respectively. The anosmia group showed lower gray matter volumes in the hippocampus–amygdala and the precuneus networks, relative to the control group. Lower gray matter volumes in the hippocampus–amygdala network were also linearly associated with lower olfactory‐specific QOL and higher depressive symptom scores. These findings suggest a close relationship between anosmia and gray matter volume alterations in the emotional brain networks, albeit without determined causal relations.
A novel method of light projection and modular jigs to improve accuracy in bone sarcoma resection
Authors: He Guangyu , Dai Amos Z. , Mustahsan Vamiq M. , Shah Aadit T. , Li Liming , Khan Jafar A. , Bielski Michael R. , Komatsu David E. , Kao Imin , Khan Fazel A.
Published: March 2022

We developed a novel method using a combined light‐registration/light‐projection system along with an off‐the‐shelf, instant‐assembly modular jig construct that could help surgeons improve bone resection accuracy during sarcoma surgery without many of the associated drawbacks of 3D printed custom jigs or computer navigation. In the novel method, the surgeon uses a light projection system to precisely align the assembled modular jig construct on the bone. In a distal femur resection model, 36 sawbones were evenly divided into 3 groups: manual‐resection (MR), conventional 3D‐printed custom jig resection (3DCJ), and the novel projector/modular jig (PMJ) resection. In addition to sawbones, a single cadaver experiment was also conducted to confirm feasibility of the PMJ method in a realistic operative setting. The PMJ method improved resection accuracy when compared to MR and 3DCJ, respectively: 0.98 mm versus 7.48 mm (p < 0.001) and 3.72 mm (p < 0.001) in mean corner position error; 1.66 mm versus 9.70 mm (p < 0.001) and 4.32 mm (p = 0.060) in mean maximum deviation error; 0.79°–4.78° (p < 0.001) and 1.26° (p > 0.999) in mean depth angle error. The PMJ method reduced the mean front angle error from 1.72° to 1.07° (p = 0.507) when compared to MR but was slightly worse compared to 0.61° (p = 0.013) in 3DCJ. The PMJ method never showed an error greater than 3 mm, while the maximum error of other two control groups were almost 14 mm. Similar accuracy was found with the PMJ method on the cadaver. A novel method using a light projector with modular jigs can achieve high levels of bone resection accuracy, but without many of the associated drawbacks of 3D printed jigs or computer navigation technology.
Response of carbon and nitrogen dynamics in soil water‐stable aggregates to wheat straw incorporation in the Yangtze River Delta of China#
Authors: Dai Wei , Wang Jun , Terrer Cesar , Cao Luqi , Cao Linkui , Sha Zhimin
Published: March 2022

Background

Research on the changes of organic carbon (OC) and total nitrogen (TN) contents in soil aggregates is crucial for better evaluating C and N dynamics in paddy soil.

Aims

We investigated the effects of wheat straw incorporation on soil aggregate distributions and stability, the contents of OC and TN in bulk soil, and aggregates as well as their relationships.

Methods

A rice paddy field experiment in China with four treatments: (1) unfertilized control (CK), (2) mineral NPK fertilizer (NPK), (3) NPK plus medium‐rate wheat straw incorporation (MSNPK), and (4) NPK plus high‐rate wheat straw incorporation (HSNPK). Soil samples were collected from four soil layers (0–5, 5–10, 10–20, and 20–30 cm, respectively) after the rice harvest, and the samples were separated into four classes of aggregates with different sizes (>5, 5–2, 2–0.25, and <0.25 mm).

Results

The >5 mm fraction dominated aggregate size distribution, but the 2–0.25 mm fraction had the highest OC and TN contents throughout soil profile among treatments. The proportions of >5 and 5–2 mm aggregates, mean weight diameter (MWD), geometric mean diameter (GMD), the proportion of aggregates greater than 0.25 mm (R0.25), bulk soil organic carbon (SOC) and TN contents, and OC and TN contents in aggregates were highest in HSNPK and lowest in CK at either depth. Both bulk SOC and TN contents positively correlated withR0.25, MWD, GMD, and OC and TN contents in aggregates, and positively and negatively correlated with all aggregates (p< 0.05), except between bulk TN and the proportion of 5–2 mm aggregates. The OC content in the 5–2 mm aggregates (increase in MSE = 23.87%) and the TN content in the 2–0.25 mm aggregates (increase in MSE = 13.89%) were more important than other driving factors for bulk SOC and TN, respectively.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these results confirmed that the application of HSNPK increased bulk SOC and TN contents, soil aggregates distributions (i.e. >5 mm and 5–2 mm fractions) and stability, and the OC and TN contents in all aggregates at both depths in rice paddy fields of China, which might improve soil C and N sinks in agricultural ecosystems.
Optimum nitrogen fertilization rate and nitrogen use efficiency forBrachiariahybrid andMegathyrsus maximusvaries with stage of regrowth
Authors: Hughes Martin P. , Mlambo Victor , Lallo Cicero H. O.
Published: March 2022

Background

Traditionally, recommended nitrogen (N) fertilization rates that maximize biomass yield and nutritive value in tropical grass forages tend to be fixed and do not consider possible stage of maturity‐induced variations. Therefore, this study investigated biomass yield and nutritive value ofBrachiariahybrid andMegathyrus maximusat different stages of maturity in response to incremental levels of N fertilizer. Both grasses were fertilized with urea at rates equivalent to 0, 25, 50, and 75 kg N ha−1and harvested after 4‐, 8‐, and 12‐week regrowth.

Results

Crude protein (CP) had a linear response to increasing N fertilization at all stages of regrowth. Herbage yield ofM. maximuswas optimized with 57.1–63.0 kg N ha−1, while herbage yield in 4‐weeks regrowthBrachiariahybrid was optimized with 59.1 kg N ha−1. The combination of herbage yield, 24 h in‐vitro organic matter digestibility, and CP were optimized with 59.1 and 68.2 kg N ha−1in 4‐weeks regrowthBrachiariahybrid and 8‐week regrowthM. maximus, respectively. The efficiency of N fertilizer use for herbage and CP yield was highest with 25 and 75 kg N ha−1, respectively except for 8‐weeks regrowthBrachiariahybrid.

Conclusion

It was concluded that the herbage yield and nutritive value of 4‐week regrowthBrachiariahybrid and 8‐week regrowthM. maximusare optimized with 59.1 and 68.2 kg N ha−1, respectively, while all other stages of regrowth were optimized with 75 kg N ha−1.
Non‐destructive prediction of total soluble solids in strawberry using near infrared spectroscopy
Authors: Agulheiro‐Santos Ana Cristina , Ricardo‐Rodrigues Sara , Laranjo Marta , Melgão Catarina , Velázquez Rocío
Published: March 2022

BACKGROUND

Near‐infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) is considered to be a fast and reliable non‐destructive technique for fruit analysis. Considering that consumers are looking for strawberries with good sweetness, texture, and appearance, producers need to effectively measure the ripeness stage of strawberries to guarantee their final quality. Therefore, the use of this technique can contribute to decreasing the high level of waste and delivering good ripe strawberries to consumers. The present study aimed to evaluate the predictive capacity of NIRS technology, as a possible alternative to conventional methodology, for the analysis of the main organoleptic parameters of strawberries (Fragaria × ananassa Duch.).

RESULTS

Spectroscopic measurements and physicochemical analyses [total soluble solids (TSS), titratable acidity, colour, texture] of ‘Victory’ strawberries were carried out. The predictive models developed for titratable acidity, colour and texture were not good enough to quantify those parameters. By contrast, in the NIRS quantitative prediction analysis of TSS, it was observed that the spectral pre‐treatment with the highest predictive capacity was the first derivative 1‐5‐5. The coefficients of determination were: 0.9277 for the calibration model; 0.5755 for the validation model; and 0.8207 for the prediction model, using a seven‐factor partial least squares multivariate regression analysis.

CONCLUSION

Therefore, these results demonstrate that NIR analysis could be used to predict the TSS in strawberry, and further work on sampling is desirable to improve the prediction obtained in the present study. It is shown that NIRS technology is a suitable tool for determining quality attributes of strawberry in a fast, economic, and environmentally friendly way. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Dry‐salted cod (Gadus morhua) rehydration assisted by pulsed electric fields: modelling of mass transfer kinetics
Authors: Genovese Jessica , Tappi Silvia , Tylewicz Urszula , D'Elia Fabio , De Aguiar Saldanha Pinheiro Ana C. , Rocculi Pietro
Published: March 2022

BACKGROUND

Dry‐salted cod (Gadus morhua) must be rehydrated before consumption and this step can take up to 5 days. Desalting of cod on an industrial scale poses many problems, mainly related to the long processing times and the quality of the final product. For this reason, many researchers have focused on finding new desalting methods to improve mass transfer. The application of pulsed electric fields (PEF) has been proposed as an alternative method for improving mass transfer in many food processes. However, there is no previous literature on the use of PEF to improve animal tissue rehydration. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate the influence of two PEF pre‐treatments [PEF (1) 500 V cm−1 and PEF (2) 1000 V cm−1] on mass transport kinetics during the rehydration process of salted cod. The rehydration process was carried out under static conditions for 6 days, immersing dry‐salted cod samples in tap water (5 ± 0.5 °C).

RESULTS

The results show that the use of PEF technology increases the rate of the rehydration process of dry‐salted cod and influences the redistribution of salt. In general, the samples pre‐treated with PEF showed higher weight gain and lower salt loss than the control samples during the rehydration process.

CONCLUSION

The application of PEF prior to rehydration of salted cod samples could be of interest to the food industry as a result of a higher process yield (higher weight gain) and the possibility to reduce the water renewal because less NaCl is lost in the wastewater. © 2022 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Sound localization in patients with a unilateral hearing aid: Discordance between the right and left ears
Authors: Ha Jungho , Kim Hantai , Lee Ju Ho , Park Hun Yi
Published: March 2022

Objectives

Patients with unilateral hearing loss (UHL) have difficulty in recognizing the direction of a sound. Previous studies have shown that hearing aids (HAs) could improve the directional perception of sound. In this study, we analyzed the results of sound localization tests in patients using a unilateral HA.

Methods

All patients with UHL who had performed sound localization tests since 2018 were included in this study. Sound localization tests, functional gain tests, and the speech discrimination scores (SDSs) were analyzed. The tests were obtained at 1‐, 3‐, and 6‐month after fitting the HA.

Results

Of the 32 patients with UHL, 13 were right‐sided and 19 were left‐sided. After 6 months of using a HA, the results of the sound localization test were significantly better in patients with right than left UHL (percent correct [PCT], 61.9 ± 24.0% vs. 37.9 ± 24.6%, p = .011; mean absolute error (MAE), 41.4 ± 23.9° vs. 65.5 ± 28.6°, p = .018; root‐mean‐square error (RMS), 25.8 ± 17.6° vs. 48.8 ± 24.5°, p = .007]. The aided SDSs were not different between the two groups (78.7 ± 16.5% vs. 77.2 ± 18.5%, p = .825).

Conclusion

The side of the hearing loss could have a substantial effect on sound localization in UHL patients using a HA. Sound localization test results should be interpreted with the consideration of this discordance.

Level of Evidence

4
Failure cause assessment of steam reformer radiant tube after long‐term service
Authors: Dobrotvorskaia Anna N. , Dobrotvorskii Mstislav A. , Shevyakova Elena P. , Simanov Michail A.
Published: March 2022

This study investigates the damage, microstructure, and mechanical evolution of service‐exposed HP40NbTi radiant tubes of a steam reformer furnace. Tube failure was reported after 6‐year of working at 525°C–830°C in the form of visible longitudinal and transverse cracks. The microstructure was evaluated using optical and scanning electron microscopy equipped with energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectrum analysis. The carbide phase transformation was determined by the method based on the matrix dissolution technique and X‐ray diffraction. The results of this study showed that the primary cause of the longitudinal crack formation is the local overheating and the oxidation of the dendritic grain boundaries. The M7C3 carbide transforms completely into the metastable M23C6 phase during high‐temperature service. Metallographic examinations revealed the shrinkage cavities and creep voids that are nucleated on both Cr‐ and Nb‐carbides. The continuous oxide layers of Cr2O3 and SiO2 formed near the inner and outer tube surfaces and the matrix's chemical composition near the outer tube surface was found to be depleted of Cr and C. Mechanical properties are irregular across the samples. A little margin of safety is noted, while the complete ductility dip is detected at room temperature. The root cause analysis of the failure under investigation showed that the tube failed due to the creep.
National school MH report card to promote policy priorities
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: March 2022

This country's growing youth mental health crisis, evident even before the pandemic, not only brings forth an urgent challenge, but it also presents an important opportunity to do something about it, according to several organizations that have come together to release the first‐ever national report card grading every state in the country on policies that support school mental health.
Pulsatile Darcy flow of water‐based thermally radiative carbon nanotubes between two concentric cylinders
Authors: Rehman Naeem Ur , Hussain Syed Tayyab , Aziz Asim
Published: March 2022

It is perceived that the addition of nanoparticles has increased the heat transfer capabilities of ordinary fluids significantly for both turbulent and laminar flow regimes. The current investigation analyzes the effects of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) on the pulsatile flow and heat transfer characteristics of viscous fluid between two concentric cylinders in the presence of thermal radiation effects. The flow of Magneto‐hydrodynamic (MHD) viscous fluid in a Darcy type porous medium is driven by the pressure gradient, assumed as a periodic function of time. The fluid is taken as optically thick and radiations can travel only a short distance within the fluid. The magnetic field is applied perpendicular to the direction of flow and the induced magnetic field is considered negligible. The conventional governing equations are based upon partial differential equations affected by the viscosity of the base fluid, effective thermal conductivity, and thermophysical characteristics of CNTs nanoparticles. The exact solutions are obtained in the form of the modified Bessel functions of the first and second kind. The effect of the flow control parameters like thermal radiation parameter , nanoparticles volume fraction , and Darcy number are illustrated through graphs. Based on a comprehensive analysis, it is concluded that the addition of single‐walled carbon nanotubes provides higher velocity and temperature distribution of nanofluid when compared with the multi‐walled carbon nanotubes.
Synthesis and Structural Properties of Adamantane‐Substituted Amines and Amides Containing an Additional Adamantane, Azaadamantane or Diamantane Moiety
Authors: Bonsir Maxime , Kennedy Alan R. , Geerts Yves
Published: March 2022

Introduction of adamantane moieties on diamondoids such as adamantane, 2‐azaadamantane or diamantane by amide formation and reduction to the corresponding amine was performed in a straightforward and easy way by amidation under Schotten–Baumann conditions and reduction with BH3 ⋅ THF. The obtained amides and amines were studied in terms of structural properties towards the perspective of transformation into nanodiamonds. Crystal structure and dynamic NMR experiments of the most crowded amide obtained gave structural insights into the effect of bulkiness and steric strain on out‐of‐planarity of amide bonds (16.0°) and the kinetics and thermodynamics of amide bond rotation (ΔG≠298K=11.5–13.3 kcal ⋅ mol−1).
Diffusion mechanism and properties of chemical liquids and their mixtures in 977‐2 epoxy resin
Authors: Korkees Feras , Swart Russo , Barsoum Imad
Published: March 2022

Epoxy resin is a versatile high‐performance thermosetting material with attractive properties for many engineering applications. However, epoxy resins may come into contact with various chemical liquid environments while in service which can degrade their mechanical properties and deteriorate their performance. Water diffusion into epoxy resins is well‐studied; however, little research has been reported on the diffusion mechanisms of other liquids/solvents and their mixtures. Therefore, this study addresses this gap through the use of gravimetric analysis to investigate the absorption of water and various chemical liquids, and their mixtures into epoxy resin. The liquid diffusion characterizations, which include weight gain, diffusion coefficients, and edge effects have been investigated. A two‐stage absorption process was observed for water, ethanol, methanol, and their mixtures. A unique three‐stage diffusion process of butyl formate, decalin, and their mixtures in 977‐2 epoxy resin was observed. A correction factor was used to account for the edge effects. The experimental results showed a dependency of saturation levels and diffusion coefficients on the polarity of the liquids and on the interaction level between the penetrants and the polymer. Furthermore, the absorption rate of the binary mixtures is intermediate between the rates of either penetrant.
On‐surface synthesis and atomic scale characterization of unprotected indenofluorene polymers
Authors: Di Giovannantonio Marco , Fasel Roman
Published: March 2022

Polycyclic hydrocarbons with nonzero radical character have attracted enormous interest as potential active media for organic electronics and spintronics. In this context, indenofluorenes are an intriguing class of formally antiaromatic, biradical materials with a radical character that depends on the connectivity of their six‐ and five‐membered rings. Synthesis of indenofluorene polymers and related compounds, first achieved in the early ‘90s with the production of ladder‐type chains, represents a major step toward incorporation of these systems into devices. However, solution‐based synthetic protocols require bulky protecting groups to stabilize the most reactive sites and, at the same time, to improve solubility and processability of such compounds. The preparation of various pristine – that is, unprotected—indenofluorene polymers has recently become possible via the on‐surface synthesis approach, where the resulting nanostructures are supported and efficiently stabilized by the underlying substrate in ultrahigh vacuum conditions. Here, an overview of these recent works is given, with a focus on synthetic challenges, structural details and electronic properties.
A simple noninvasive biomarker can reflect both the acute and chronic pulmonary impact of patent ductus arteriosus shunting
Authors: Bin‐Nun Alona , Shchors Irina , Abu‐Omar Rawan , Kasirer Yair , Mimouni Francis , Hammerman Cathy
Published: March 2022

Aim

The SFR (SpO2/FiO2 ratio) offers a continuous, noninvasive reflection of pulmonary function regardless of whether the baby is ventilated or breathing spontaneously. We hypothesized that significant patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) shunting would impair pulmonary oxygen diffusion, reflected by decreased SFR; and that early PDA related decreases in SFR predict subsequent chronic lung disease (CLD).

Methods

We retrospectively examined records from preterm neonates ≤30 weeks gestational age. Ductal shunting was graded for severity by first week echocardiogram. SFR was calculated as SpO2/FiO2 and recorded on Day 7 of life and 36 weeks postmenstrual age (PMA).

Results

We studied 104 infants: 65 with closed duct, 17 with hemodynamically insignificant PDA, and 22 with hemodynamically significant (hsPDAs). CLD developed in 9 (14%) of those with closed ducts; 6 (35%) of those with hisPDA; and in 12 (55%) of those with hsPDA (p = 0.005). SFR values at 1 week postnatally were decreased in those with hsPDA and with hisPDA as compared with those with closed ducts (closed ducts 452 [448−457] vs. hisPDA 396 [294−442] vs. hsPDA 327 [235−369]; p = 0.00001). However, at 36 weeks only SFRs of babies with hsPDA remained significantly lower (467 [461−467] vs. 467 [413−471] vs. 369 [262−436] for closed vs. hisPDA vs. hsPDA respectively; p = 0.000148). Using ROC curve analysis, Week 1 SFR was strongly associated with hsPDA (area under curve [AUC] = 0.770; p < 0.0001) and highly predictive (AUC = 0.801; p < 0.0001) of CLD at 36 weeks PMA.

Conclusion

Early decreases in SFR reflect both the acute and chronic pulmonary impact of PDA shunting, possibly providing the missing link supporting an association between hemodynamically significant PDA and subsequent CLD.
Knowledge brokering to bridge the research‐practice gap in education: Where are we now?
Authors: Rycroft‐Smith Lucy
Published: March 2022

Connecting research to practice by knowledge brokering in education, which is considered here as functionally synonymous with knowledge mobilisation, is currently under‐researched, difficult to define, and not well understood. This narrative synthesis review curates recent research concerning characterisations of knowledge brokering in education, considering the models and metaphors that have been used to describe and prescribe its activities, and then goes on to consider the limited evidence on effective knowledge brokering and what this suggests about possibilities for its evaluation in education contexts, which is considered necessary and urgent. Interpersonal relationships and social contexts are considered key to educational knowledge brokering, which has also been described as transforming knowledge, often by mediation, boundary‐spanning, and/or bridging. It is suggested that those doing the work of knowledge brokering (knowledge brokers) should have a deep understanding of the context and terrain of both research and practice (and perhaps policy) in education. A need is proposed for theoretical and empirical work to define the purposes and pitfalls of educational knowledge brokering in practice, related to issues of trust and credibility, and to enable evaluation and accountability to take place.
Coaching early childhood teachers: A systematic review of its effects on teacher instruction and child development
Authors: Yang Weipeng , Huang Runke , Su Yufen , Zhu Jie , Hsieh Wu‐Ying , Li Hui
Published: March 2022

Coaching is proven to be an effective strategy of professional development; however, rare research has documented the nuances of coaching effects and the enablers in early childhood education. This study presents a systematic review of 33 randomised controlled trials or (quasi‐)experiments to investigate the effects of coaching as a professional development tool on early childhood teachers' instruction and young children's developmental outcomes. The synthesis of evidence revealed positive effects of coaching on teachers' knowledge gains and instructional competencies and a range of children's developmental outcomes (language and literacy, social‐emotional development, and academic skills). We analysed the ‘who’, ‘what’ and ‘how’ components of coaching to explain the enabling factors surrounding the effects of coaching. Empirical evidence synthesised in this review supports the theoretical notions of situated learning derived from anthropological studies of apprenticeship, suggesting that coaching should be situated in the real teaching context for promoting its effects. This systematic review is the first to apply situated learning theory in discussing how coaching works and reveals a robust positive effect of coaching on teachers' knowledge gains and instructional abilities, and children's developmental outcomes. Guidelines that could help understand the application of coaching are provided to inform the scaling up of coaching‐focused professional development programmes in early childhood settings. Implications of this research synthesis are also discussed for future research.
Land cover classification of treeline ecotones along a 1100 km latitudinal transect using spectral‐ and three‐dimensional information from UAV‐based aerial imagery
Authors: Mienna Ida Marielle , Klanderud Kari , Ørka Hans Ole , Bryn Anders , Bollandsås Ole Martin
Published: March 2022

The alpine treeline ecotone is expected to move upwards in elevation with global warming. Thus, mapping treeline ecotones is crucial in monitoring potential changes. Previous remote sensing studies have focused on the usage of satellites and aircrafts for mapping the treeline ecotone. However, treeline ecotones can be highly heterogenous, and thus the use of imagery with higher spatial resolution should be investigated. We evaluate the potential of using unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for the collection of ultra‐high spatial resolution imagery for mapping treeline ecotone land covers. We acquired imagery and field reference data from 32 treeline ecotone sites along a 1100 km latitudinal gradient in Norway (60–69°N). Before classification, we performed a superpixel segmentation of the UAV‐derived orthomosaics and assigned land cover classes to segments: rock, water, snow, shadow, wetland, tree‐covered area and five classes within the ridge‐snowbed gradient. We calculated features providing spectral, textural, three‐dimensional vegetation structure, topographical and shape information for the classification. To evaluate the influence of acquisition time during the growing season and geographical variations, we performed four sets of classifications: global, seasonal‐based, geographical regional‐based and seasonal‐regional‐based. We found no differences in overall accuracy (OA) between the different classifications, and the global model with observations irrespective of data acquisition timing and geographical region had an OA of 73%. When accounting for similarities between closely related classes along the ridge‐snowbed gradient, the accuracy increased to 92.6%. We found spectral features related to visible, red‐edge and near‐infrared bands to be the most important to predict treeline ecotone land cover classes. Our results show that the use of UAVs is efficient in mapping treeline ecotones, and that data can be acquired irrespective of timing within a growing season and geographical region to get accurate land cover maps. This can overcome constraints of a short field‐season or low‐resolution remote sensing data.
Molecular Iodine‐Catalyzed Sulfonyl‐Activated sp3 C−N Bond Cleavage for the C3‐Alkylation of 4‐Hydroxycoumarins
Authors: Zhao Jinyu , Jia Lina , Yuan Changping , Li Linlin , Hu Minggang , Han Fuzhong , Hu Xiangping
Published: March 2022

A molecular iodine‐catalyzed system for the coupling reaction of 4‐hydroxycoumarins with N‐benzylic sulfonamides via sp3 C−N bond cleavage has been established. This procedure provides a series of C3‐alkylated 4‐hydroxycoumarins containing structurally diverse functional groups in good to excellent yields. Furthermore, the practicability of this method could be manifested efficiently in a gram‐scale synthesis of drug coumatetralyl and access to a bioactive agent pyranocoumarin from obtained product.
Synthesis and Characterization of Photo‐catalyst Ag2S/WO3 and its Application for Crystal Violet Degradation in the Aqueous Medium
Authors: Abdoli Marzieh , Manesh Afshin Taghva , Ghaedi Mehrorang , Aghaie Mehran
Published: March 2022

In this study, Ag2S/WO3 Nano‐composite was synthesized by hydrothermal method and identified by techniques including Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT‐IR), Brunaure, Emmett and Teller (BET), Field Emission‐Scanning Electron Microscopy (FE SEM), Energy Dispersive X‐ray (EDX), X‐Ray Diffraction (XRD), Ultraviolet‐Visible spectroscopy (UV‐Vis) and Diffuse Reflection Spectroscopy (DRS). This Nano‐composite represents good efficiency to degrade the color of crystals violet (CV) in the aqueous medium owing to subsequent activation under visible light. The central composite design (CCD) was used to examine dependency of degradation to variables viz time, pH, amount of photo‐catalyst, and CV concentration. The modeling results show the applicability of the quadratic model to predict and estimate the relationship between independent and dependent variables, while judgment were examined according to Correlation coefficients. The highest percentage of CV degradation was achieved under optimal conditions set as 45 minutes irradiation of 6 mg.L−1 of VC at pH of 7 using 1.25 g of Ag2S/Wo3 which lead to decompositions of around 98 % which has good agreement with the laboratory results (97.65 %). The regeneration of Ag2S/WO3 nano‐composite reveals decreases in its applicability to conduct similar experiments and close results till 4 replicates. Also, the kinetic of analysis of the CV decomposition follows the quasi‐first‐order model.
Self‐Healing Clay/Epoxy Composites Prepared from Clay‐Modified Microcapsules
Authors: Khostavan Sepide , Fazli Mostafa , Ahangari Morteza Ghorbanzadeh , Omrani Abdollah
Published: March 2022

Urea‐formaldehyde microcapsules were made in the presence of montmorillonite (MMT) nanoparticles by in‐situ polymerization and characterized with different methods. To monitor the presence of MMT and Dicyclopentadiene in microcapsules. Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) spectra was taken from samples. Distribution of microcapsule‘s diameters was studied by optical microscopy (OM) micrographs. Size distribution analysis showed that the average diameter of the microcapsules decreased from 130 (in the neat microcapsules) to 85 μm in MMT modified microcapsules. Surface and shell wall of microcapsules have an important role in their capability. Therefore, surface roughness and shell barrier properties were investigated by AFM micrographs and Thermogravimetry analysis. Results of both the methods showed improved features in MMT modified microcapsules. The synthesized microcapsules were used in MMT/epoxy nanocomposite as the healing agent and a coated glass monitored under optical microscope before and after crack demonstrating a good healing observed after 2 hours.
PFOA‐Catalyzed Regioselective Alkylation of Indolylmethanols with 2‐Alkylazaarenes**
Authors: Zhong Yi , Hong Gang , Tang Zhicong , Yang Peng , Wang Qi , Gong Yu , Wang Limin
Published: March 2022

The selective alkylation of 2‐indolylmethanols with 2‐methyl‐N‐heteroaromatics in the presence of perfluorooctanoic acid is herein demonstrated. This protocol features high regioselectivity, easy availability of raw materials and well tolerance of functional groups. This approach allows the formation of a range of hindered quaternary centers. More importantly, the present method offers efficient ways to introduce biologically important indole and quinoline skeleton into highly complex molecular.
Suffering, psychological distress, and well‐being in Indonesia: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Ho Samuel , Cook Kaye V. , Chen Zhuo Job , Kurniati Ni Made Taganing , Suwartono Christiany , Widyarini Nilam , Wong Paul T. P. , Cowden Richard G.
Published: March 2022

Research on the subjective experience of suffering has typically focussed on older clinical samples living in Western, educated, industrialised, rich, and democratic (WEIRD) countries. To further extend the existing body of empirical research on suffering to less WEIRD contexts, we use three waves of data (Wave 1: December 2020; Wave 2: January 2021; Wave 3: February 2021) from a sample of nonclinical Indonesian adults (n = 594) to examine associations between suffering, two indices of psychological distress, and 10 facets of well‐being. In our primary analysis, we estimated a series of multiple regression models that adjusted for a range of sociodemographic characteristics, financial and material stability, religious/spiritual factors, prior values of overall suffering, and prior values of each outcome assessed in Wave 1. Results indicated that overall suffering assessed in Wave 2 was associated with an increase in both indices of psychological distress and a decrease in eight facets of well‐being assessed in Wave 3. Using a similar analytic approach, results from a secondary analysis indicated that higher scores on both indices of psychological distress and lower scores on seven of the well‐being facets assessed in Wave 2 were associated with worse subsequent overall suffering assessed in Wave 3. These findings contribute to empirical literature on the implications of suffering for well‐being.
What are they bringing with them? Understanding past science experiences of preservice elementary teachers and what they mean for the science methods course
Authors: Hulings Melissa
Published: March 2022

This study sought to better understand how past science learning experiences affected preservice elementary teachers, both in terms of their own self‐efficacy and their perceptions of science teaching and learning at the beginning of their science methods course. Following an explanatory sequential mixed methods design, this study first involved the collection of quantitative data and then the collection of more in‐depth qualitative data. In the first phase, the quantitative data included the Draw‐a‐Science‐Teacher‐Test Checklist (DASTT‐C) and the Science Teaching Efficacy Belief Instrument (STEBI‐B) of preservice elementary teachers. In the second phase of this study, selected science autobiographies written by these same preservice elementary teachers, were explored based on extremely high or low scores on one of the STEBI‐B subscales and the DASTT‐C. Based on the findings, these preservice elementary teachers used their past experiences with science as a foundation for how they perceived science and its instruction in the elementary classroom. Overall, these preservice elementary teachers have a desire to make science in the elementary grades a positive experience for their future students.
Analyticity and unitarity for cosmological correlators
Authors: Di Pietro Lorenzo , Gorbenko Victor , Komatsu Shota
Published: March 2022

Abstract

We study the fundamentals of quantum field theory on a rigid de Sitter space. We show that the perturbative expansion of late-time correlation functions to all orders can be equivalently generated by a non-unitary Lagrangian on a Euclidean AdS geometry. This finding simplifies dramatically perturbative computations, as well as allows us to establish basic properties of these correlators, which comprise a Euclidean CFT. We use this to infer the analytic structure of the spectral density that captures the conformal partial wave expansion of a late-time four-point function, to derive an OPE expansion, and to constrain the operator spectrum. Generically, dimensions and OPE coefficients do not obey the usual CFT notion of unitarity. Instead, unitarity of the de Sitter theory manifests itself as the positivity of the spectral density. This statement does not rely on the use of Euclidean AdS Lagrangians and holds non-perturbatively. We illustrate and check these properties by explicit calculations in a scalar theory by computing first tree-level, and then full one- loop-resummed exchange diagrams. An exchanged particle appears as a resonant feature in the spectral density which can be potentially useful in experimental searches.
Bott–Chern Laplacian on almost Hermitian manifolds
Authors: Piovani Riccardo , Tomassini Adriano
Published: March 2022

Let$$(M,J,g,\omega )$$(M,J,g,ω)be a 2n-dimensional almost Hermitian manifold. We extend the definition of the Bott–Chern Laplacian on$$(M,J,g,\omega )$$(M,J,g,ω), proving that it is still elliptic. On a compact Kähler manifold, the kernels of the Dolbeault Laplacian and of the Bott–Chern Laplacian coincide. We show that such a property does not hold when$$(M,J,g,\omega )$$(M,J,g,ω)is a compact almost Kähler manifold, providing an explicit almost Kähler structure on the Kodaira–Thurston manifold. Furthermore, if$$(M,J,g,\omega )$$(M,J,g,ω)is a connected compact almost Hermitian 4-manifold, denoting by$$h^{1,1}_{BC}$$hBC1,1the dimension of the space of Bott–Chern harmonic (1, 1)-forms, we prove that either$$h^{1,1}_{BC}=b^-$$hBC1,1=b-or$$h^{1,1}_{BC}=b^-+1$$hBC1,1=b-+1. In particular, ifgis almost Kähler, then$$h^{1,1}_{BC}=b^-+1$$hBC1,1=b-+1, extending the result by Holt and Zhang (Harmonic forms on the Kodaira–Thurston manifold.arXiv:2001.10962, 2020) for the kernel of Dolbeault Laplacian. We also show that the dimensions of the spaces of Bott–Chern and Dolbeault harmonic (1, 1)-forms behave differently on almost complex 4-manifolds endowed with strictly locally conformally almost Kähler metrics. Finally, we relate some spaces of Bott-Chern harmonic forms to the Bott–Chern cohomology groups for almost complex manifolds, recently introduced in Coelho et al. (Maximally non-integrable almost complex structures: an h-principle and cohomological properties,arXiv:2105.12113, 2021).
Neutrophil–lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet–lymphocyte ratio (PLR) and lymphocyte–monocyte ratio (LMR) in predicting systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) and sepsis after percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PNL)
Authors: Kriplani Akshay , Pandit Shruti , Chawla Arun , de la Rosette Jean J. M. C. H. , Laguna Pilar , Jayadeva Reddy Suraj , Somani Bhaskar K.
Published: March 2022

The objective of this prospective observational study was to assess the clinical significance of neutrophil–lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet–lymphocyte ratio (PLR) and lymphocyte–monocyte ratio (LMR) as potential biomarkers to identify post-PNL SIRS or sepsis. Demographic data and laboratory data including hemoglobin (Hb), total leucocyte count (TLC), serum creatinine, urine microscopy and culture were collected. The NLR, LMR and PLR were calculated by the mathematical division of their absolute values derived from routine complete blood counts from peripheral blood samples. Stone factors were assessed by non-contrast computerized tomography of kidneys, ureter and bladder (NCCT KUB) and included stone burden (Volume = L × W × D × π × 0.167), location and Hounsfield value and laterality. Intraoperative factors assessed were puncture site, tract size, tract number, operative time, the need for blood transfusion and stone clearance. Of 517 patients evaluated, 56 (10.8%) developed SIRS and 8 (1.5%) developed sepsis. Patients developing SIRS had significantly higher TLC (10.4 ± 3.5 vs 8.6 ± 2.6, OR 1.19, 95% CI 1.09–1.3,p = 0.000002), higher NLR (3.6 ± 2.4 vs 2.5 ± 1.04, OR 1.3, 95% CI = 1.09–1.5,p = 0.0000001), higher PLR (129.3 ± 53.8 vs 115.4 ± 68.9, OR 1.005, 95% CI 1.001–1.008,p = 0.005) and lower LMR (2.5 ± 1.7 vs 3.2 ± 1.8, OR 1.18, 95% CI 1.04–1.34,p = 0.006). Staghorn stones (12.8 vs 3.24%, OR 4.361, 95% CI 1.605–11.846,p = 0.008) and long operative times (59.6 ± 14.01 vs 55.2 ± 16.02, OR 1.01, 95% CI 1.00–1.03,p = 0.05) had significant association with postoperative SIRS. In conclusion, NLR, PLR and LMR can be useful independent, easily accessible and cost-effective predictors for early identification of post-PNL SIRS/sepsis.