bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Endothelial activation predicts disseminated intravascular coagulopathy, cytokine release syndrome and prognosis in patients treated with anti‐CD19 CAR‐T cells
Authors: Galli Eugenio , Sorà Federica , Hohaus Stefan , Fresa Alberto , Pansini Ilaria , Autore Francesco , Metafuni Elisabetta , Innocenti Idanna , Limongiello Maria Assunta , Giammarco Sabrina , Laurenti Luca , Bacigalupo Andrea , Chiusolo Patrizia , De Stefano Valerio , Sica Simona
Published: December 2022

Cytokine release syndrome (CRS) and consumptive coagulopathy can complicate the treatment with chimeric antigen receptor T (CAR‐T) cells. The modified version of the Endothelial Activation and Stress Index (mEASIX), a score derived from haematopoietic stem cell transplantation, combines platelets, C‐reactive protein (CRP), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and has been correlated with CRS and endothelial biomarkers. In 38 consecutive patients with aggressive lymphoproliferative disease we measured a coagulative laboratory panel at baseline and early after infusion of anti‐CD19 CAR‐T. The panel was investigated also in the presence of CRS graded 2 or higher, or immune effector cell‐associated neurotoxicity syndrome (ICANS). Moreover, we examined the relationship between mEASIX, coagulation biomarkers, and toxicities of CAR‐T cells. During CRS grade 2 or higher, we found increased prothrombin time (PT) and activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), fibrinogen, D‐dimer, factor VIII (FVIII), and von Willebrand factor (vWF) antigen levels, and decreased platelet count and antithrombin levels. The occurrence of immune effector cell‐associated neurotoxicity syndrome was associated with higher PT values, D‐dimer, FVIII, and vWF levels, and decreased fibrinogen levels and platelet count. A higher mEASIX score correlated with increased aPTT values, fibrinogen, D‐dimer, FVIII and vWF levels, and decreased antithrombin levels. Baseline mEASIX was predictive for consumptive coagulopathy and CRS graded 2 or higher, and for progression‐free survival and overall survival.
Pharmakologie der Januskinase‐Inhibitoren – Teil 2: Pharmakodynamik
Authors: Eichner Adina , Wohlrab Johannes
Published: December 2022

Als niedermolekulare Substanzen haben die Januskinase‐Inhibitoren unterschiedliche, dosisabhängige pharmakologische Bindungsselektivitäten, die allerdings keine verlässlichen Aussagen über die klinische Spezifität gewünschter oder unerwünschter Wirkeffekte ermöglichen. Es ist deshalb von besonderer Bedeutung zu erkennen, dass die Pharmakodynamik der einzelnen Januskinase‐Inhibitoren in Abhängigkeit der behandelten Indikation wesentlich durch die variablen Regulationsebenen des JAK/STAT‐Signalwegs sowie der pharmakokinetischen Bedingungen bestimmt wird. Vor diesem Hintergrund wird deutlich, dass alleinig klinische Studiendaten in definierten Indikationen für die Bewertung der Wirksamkeit und Sicherheit von Januskinase‐Inhibitoren geeignet sind. Eine unkritische Extrapolation von Beobachtungen bezüglich Wirksamkeit und Sicherheit aus Studien anderer Indikationen soll deshalb nur mit der gebotenen Zurückhaltung erfolgen.
Response rate in cardiac resynchronization therapy patients implanted with a left ventricular quadripolar lead and the MultiPoint™ pacing feature early activated. QUARTO III
Authors: Osca Joaquín , Francisco‐Pascual Jaume , Martínez‐Basterra Javier , Martínez Juan Gabriel , Reis Hipólito , Oliveira Mario , Campos Bieito , Balaguer Javier , Rubio Jerónimo , Pavón‐Jiménez Ricardo , Hernández Julio , Ormaetxe Jose Miguel , Zamorano Jose Luis , Santamaría Pilar , Alzueta Javier
Published: December 2022

Background

Although cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) is beneficial in most heart failure patients, up to 40% do not respond to CRT. It has been suggested that multipoint left ventricle pacing (MPP) would increase the response rate.

Aim

To assess the CRT response rate at 6 months in patients implanted with a CRT device with the MPP feature activated early after the implant.

Methods

This was a multicentre, prospective, open‐label and non‐randomized study. The primary endpoint was response to biventricular pacing defined as >15% relative reduction in left ventricular end‐systolic volume (LVESV) comparing echocardiography measurements performed at baseline and 6 months by a core laboratory. Among secondary endpoints the combined endpoint of mortality or all‐cause hospitalizations was evaluated. Primary study endpoint and clinical outcomes were compared to a Quarto II control cohort.

Results

Totally, 105 patients were included. The response rate was 64.6% (97.5% lower confidence bound 53%). Mean relative reduction in LVESV was 25.3%, and mean absolute increase in LVEF was 9.4%. The subjects with device programmed using anatomical approach showed a trend towards higher responder rate than those using the electrical approach (72% vs. 61.1%, p = 0.32). Finally, the combined incidence of mortality and or all‐cause hospitalizations at 6 month was 12.4%.

Conclusions

Early activation of MPP was not associated to an advantage increasing echocardiography responders to CRT at 6 months of follow‐up. Nevertheless, patients programmed using widest pacing cathodes had a numerically higher responder rate. Finally, early activation of MPP was associated to a low incidence of clinical endpoints at 6 months of follow‐up.
Analytical expressions to estimate rapidly the notch stress intensity factors at V‐notch tips using the Peak Stress Method
Authors: Visentin Alberto , Campagnolo Alberto , Meneghetti Giovanni
Published: December 2022

The Peak Stress Method (PSM) enables a rapid estimation of the notch stress intensity factors (NSIFs) for the fatigue strength assessment of sharp V‐notches and notably welded joints. It takes advantage of the linear elastic peak stresses calculated at the V‐notch tip using coarse finite element (FE) mesh patterns, thanks to properly calibrated coefficients depending on the V‐notch opening angle, FE type, formulation, and FE mesh pattern typical of the employed FE code. The original calibration was performed only for few master values of opening angle; therefore, in the present study, the coefficients have been calibrated by using Ansys® FE code for the full range of notch opening angles to generalize the PSM. In particular, polynomial expressions have been fitted on the results of FE analyses and implemented in a tool that automates the application of the PSM. Two case studies have been analyzed highlighting the benefits of the new polynomial expressions.
Physiological changes associated with enhanced cold resistance during Medicago ruthenica germination and seedling growth in response to exogenous γ‐aminobutyric acid
Authors: Li Ying , Chen Yanzhu , Ma Kaikai , Bai Meimei , Liu Yuanyuan , Yu Xiaojun
Published: December 2022

Elucidating the effect of γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) on seed germination and seedling growth of Medicago ruthenica under low‐temperature could provide a reference for alleviating the harmful effects of low temperatures on legumes in alpine meadows. We set up different temperatures to screen three low temperatures that inhibit seed germination of Medicago ruthenica, and six aqueous concentrations of GABA (0, 0.1, 0.5, 1, 5, 10 mM) were set up to screen out the best GABA seed soaking concentration that can promote the seed germination at low‐temperature. The three temperatures of 10 °C, 20/5 °C and 15/5 °C inhibited seed germination of Medicago ruthenica. Soaking seeds with 1 mM GABA could significantly increase seed germination rate of Medicago ruthenica at low‐temperature (10 °C). Soaking seeds only with 0.1 mM GABA could promote germination of Medicago ruthenica at 20/5 °C, but there is no significant difference compared with distilled water soaking. Whereas, all GABA seed soaking concentrations delayed seed germination time and inhibited seed germination at 15/5 °C. Pre‐spraying seedlings with 1 mM GABA at 10 °C reduced the production of superoxide anion, hydrogen peroxide and malondialdehyde content, and increased the activities of catalase, peroxidase, superoxide dismutase and ascorbate peroxidase in leaves of Medicago ruthenica on days 7. Simultaneously, Pre‐spraying seedlings with 1 mM GABA at 10 °C significantly increased the net photosynthetic rate and decreased intercellular CO2 concentration. These data suggest that GABA could enhance the cold tolerance of Medicago ruthenica by promoting seed germination, regulating the antioxidant system, and increasing photosynthetic efficiency. However, the mitigation effect of GABA on low‐temperature is only applicable to a certain temperature. The mitigation effect of GABA on low temperature will be weakened as the low temperature of plants is less than 10 °C
Practice patterns for reporting digestive system neuroendocrine neoplasms: results from a large, comprehensive international survey
Authors: Karamchandani Dipti M , Cox Brian , La Rosa Stefano , Bellizzi Andrew M , Shi Chanjuan , Gonzalez Raul S
Published: December 2022

Aims

Criteria for the interpretation of digestive system neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs) continue to evolve. Although there are some literature recommendations regarding workup and diagnosis of these lesions, different practice patterns exist among pathologists when signing out these specimens. The aim of this study was to assess practice trends among pathologists worldwide when reporting these neoplasms.

Methods and results

We created an online survey with multiple questions pertaining to digestive NENs. The results were analysed based on type of practice setting, years of sign‐out experience, and practice location. Respondents included 384 practicing pathologists: 70% academic, 30% private practice; 63% gastrointestinal (GI) pathology‐subspecialised, 37% not; 39% North American, 42% European, 19% others; 45% with ≤10 years in practice; 55% with >10 years. Some question responses were chosen by the majority (e.g. 85% use both mitotic count and Ki67 index for grading NENs, 82% complete a synoptic, and Ki67 stain even for small incidental appendiceal neuroendocrine tumours [NETs], and 96% utilize the diagnosis of grade 3 NET). However, some questions showed varying responses, including counting mitotic figures, Ki67 stain interpretation, and pancreatic grade 3 NEN workup. Pathologists also had some variability in interpreting regional metastatic foci of small bowel NETs and in choosing blocks for Ki67 staining in multifocal lesions.

Conclusion

There existed scenarios wherein practice patterns varied despite recommendations in the literature, and there were also scenarios lacking clear guidelines wherein pathologists used varying judgement. This survey highlights current key grey areas in digestive system NEN evaluation, leading to variation in practice patterns.
TNFSF13B rs9514828 gene polymorphism and soluble B cell activating factor levels: Association with apical periodontitis
Authors: Cruz Alvaro , Gascón Luis Gerardo , Palafox‐Sánchez Claudia Azucena , Flores‐García Christian , Espinoza‐García Noemí , Sagrero‐Fabela Nefertari , Cintra Luciano Tavares Angelo , Mejía‐Flores Rocío , Salazar‐Camarena Diana Celeste
Published: December 2022

Aim

The aim of this case‐control study was to evaluate the association between the TNFSF13B rs9514828 (−871 C > T) polymorphism and soluble BAFF (sBAFF) in apical periodontitis (AP) patients.

Methodology

Two hundred and sixty one healthy subjects (HS) and 158 patients with AP classified as: 46 acute apical abscess (AAA), 81 primary AP (pAP) and 31 secondary AP (sAP) patients were included. Genomic DNA (gDNA) was extracted from peripheral blood cells according to the salting out method. The TNFSF13B rs9514828 (NC_000013.11:g.108269025C > T) were identified using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) followed by restriction fragment length polymorphisms (RFLP). Serum sBAFF levels were measured by ELISA test. The chi‐squared or Fisher's exact test was performed. Odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) were calculated to evaluate the risk of AP associated with the rs9514828. The Mann–Whitney U test and Kruskal–Wallis analysis were used for non‐normally distributed data. Differences were considered significant with a p‐value <.05.

Results

No differences in the genotype/allele frequencies were shown between HS and patients with AAA. However, the TT genotype (OR = 2.68, 95% CI: 1.10–6.53; p = .025) and T allele (OR = 1.46, 95% CI: 1.00–2.12; p = .045) were associated with increased risk of pAP. In contrast, the minor allele T significantly decreased the risk of sAP (OR = 0.49, 95% CI: 0.024–0.99; p = .043). sBAFF serum levels were increased in AAA and pAP compared with HS (p < .01 and p = .021, respectively). The AAA patients had higher sBAFF serum levels than pAP (p = .034) and sAP (p < .01).

Conclusions

These results suggest that the TNFSF13B rs9514828 (−871 C > T) polymorphism is associated with pAP susceptibility and that BAFF is a cytokine that might be involved in acute and chronic AP. The future exploration of the rs9514828 polymorphism in other AP cohorts is recommended.
The willingness to emigrate in six MENA countries: The role of post‐revolutionary stress
Authors: Fakih Ali , El Baba Malak
Published: December 2022

This paper studies the determinants of emigration from six Middle East and North Africa (MENA) countries in light of the Arab Spring of 2011. The aim is to determine if the economically unfortunate events which occurred as a result of the Arab Spring, resulted in a brain drain for many countries. The paper's analysis is conducted using the Arab Transformation Project dataset of the year 2014 by employing an ordered probit model. The paper's main conclusion is that sentiments of unhappiness appear to be the primary determinant of the willingness to emigrate. Other post‐revolutionary feelings include lack of trust and political and democratic discontent, which highly encourage the willingness to emigrate. In addition, socio‐economic factors, such as being young, male, and highly educated, contribute to the willingness to emigrate. However, married individuals are less likely to consider emigration.
Thermodynamic analysis of solar assisted steam distillation system for peppermint oil extraction
Authors: Kant Ravi , Kumar Anil
Published: December 2022

Scheffler reflector (10 m2) integrated peppermint oil (PO) extraction distillation system is developed. Optical loss in reflector and thermal loss in solar still, steam line, and condenser are determined. A solar distillation system of peppermint plants is also subjected to thermal energetic and exergetic study. Exergy and optical efficiencies are 27.58% and 52.25%, respectively, with an average irradiance of 970.5 W/m2 and 6 kg of peppermint for 4 h. Thermal efficiency of solar still, steam line, and condenser are 95.90%, 95.68%, and 87.96%, respectively. Efficiency of system and oil yield per unit of energy consumed is 41.98% and 6.24 ml/kWh, respectively, without insulating steam line. System's efficiency is 46.36%, with an improvement of 2.67% in energy gain by insulating the steam line. Thermodynamic analysis of developed solar steam distillation system (SSDS) for PO extraction will help in finding out energy saving potential at various parts of distillation unit and in improving the performance of distillation unit. This research would provide energy conservation opportunities in various parts of PO extraction SSDS. Exergy analysis and detailed investigation of condenser and steam line are also performed. As a result, incorporating solar energy into PO extraction technology improves opportunities for the source of income in rural areas and increases both income and level of food security for farmers.

Practical applications

This research would provide energy conservation opportunities in various parts of peppermint oil (PO) extraction solar steam distillation system. Exergy analysis and detailed investigation of condenser and steam line are also performed. As a result, incorporating solar energy into PO extraction technology improves opportunities for the source of income in rural areas and increases both income and level of food security for farmers.

Novelty Statement

Mentioned literature includes thermodynamic analysis of oil extraction system available for crops such as rosemary leaves, basil leaves, etc. Thermodynamic analysis of such a system is limited to these crops and applied to other crops like peppermint, eucalyptus, lavender, etc. As these crops possess different chemical properties and have large potential in essential oil market, a comprehensive thermal analysis is needed to identify various thermodynamic parameters to extract peppermint oil (PO) using solar‐assisted steam distillation system. Present work aims to identify energy and power loss due to convection and radiation at different parts of a solar distillation unit. Exergy analysis and detailed investigation of condenser and steam line are also performed. This research would provide energy conservation opportunities in PO extraction solar steam distillation system. Furthermore, the outcomes of present study have been compared with previously published studies.
The effect of phone and video counselling given to participants living with obesity on weight loss and quality of life during the COVID‐19 pandemic: a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Yücel Ümüş Özbey , Yücel Murat
Published: December 2022

Background

Although remote dietary counselling practices have increased in the COVID‐19 pandemic, it is not known which method is more effective. This study aimed to determine the effect of diet counselling by phone or video on weight loss and to compare it with the traditional follow‐up method.

Methods

Forty‐six participants living with obesity were randomised into the phone counselling (n = 15), video counselling (n = 15), and traditional follow‐up groups (n = 16), and were followed for 10 weeks. The anthropometric measurements, quality‐of‐life questionnaire (SF‐36) scores and total calorie/macronutrient intakes were recorded and compared at baseline and at the end of the study.

Results

In the phone counselling, video counselling and traditional follow‐up groups body weight (−4.8 ± 0.9, −5.7 ± 1.8 and −3.3 ± 0.8 kg, respectively) and SF‐36 general health scores (14.2 ± 4.2, 15.9 ± 3.6 and 10.2 ± 3.7, respectively) of the participants changed significantly compared to baseline (group × time interaction, p < 0.05). The change in the body weight and SF‐36 general health score was more in the phone counselling and video counselling groups relative to the traditional follow‐up group (group × time interaction, p < 0.01). The highest decrease in total calorie (−301.4 ± 112.2 kcal) and carbohydrate (−26.6 ± 11.2 g) intake was in the video counselling group compared to the other groups (group × time interaction, p < 0.01).

Conclusion

Video counselling and phone counselling were effective in weight loss in the COVID‐19 pandemic. It is important to maintain remote dietary counselling practices to support weight management when face‐to‐face meetings are not possible.
The effectiveness of psychological interventions for anxiety in the perinatal period: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Clinkscales Natalie , Golds Lisa , Berlouis Katherine , MacBeth Angus
Published: December 2022

Purpose

Anxiety disorders are relatively common during pregnancy and the postnatal period. Despite their potential acceptability to users, psychological interventions research for this population is still in its infancy. The meta‐analysis aimed to comprehensively evaluate the evidence of the effectiveness of psychological interventions for reducing perinatal anxiety.

Method

The review followed PRISMA guidelines. A total of 26 studies published between 2004 and 2022 fulfilled inclusion criteria of which 22 were included in the meta‐analysis.

Results

Results indicated that psychological interventions were more effective than control conditions in reducing symptoms of perinatal anxiety (equivalent to a medium post treatment effect size). Effect sizes were robust for cognitive, behavioural and mindfulness‐based interventions. Targeting anxiety also appeared to impact on depression symptoms. There was substantial evidence of methodological heterogeneity.

Conclusions

This review demonstrates that psychological interventions are effective in reducing symptoms of both anxiety and comorbid anxiety and depression in both the antenatal and postnatal periods. Further research on longer‐term effects, infant outcomes, treatment approach and modality are required.
Overcoming the challenges of incorporating rare and threatened flora into ecosystem restoration
Authors: Bartholomew David C. , Shaw Kirsty , Rivers Malin C. , Baraka Patrick , Kigathi Rose N. , Wanja Wincate , Wanjiku Caroline , Williams Harry F.
Published: December 2022

Developing strategies that enhance the incorporation of rare and threatened flora into ecosystem restoration is urgently needed to capitalize on the United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration. We outline six major challenges that impede the widespread use of rare and threatened flora in restoration: (1) a lack of information about threatened species; (2) a lack of propagation material; (3) low survival rates and regeneration potential; (4) a lack of coordination and collaboration; (5) a lack of financial incentives; and (6) a lack of policy incentives. We also outline several potential solutions to overcome each of them, including changes to funding, legislation, and markets, advancing use of modern technologies and knowledge, and development of new collaborations. All stakeholders have a role to play, including practitioners, academics, funders, and policymakers.
A Study on Choices and the Profile of the Brazilian Investor in the Decision-Making Process
Authors: Silva Alves Cravo José Carlos , Santos Daiane Rodrigues , Villagrán Campo Elías Suárez , Matos Márcia Monteiro
Published: December 2022

The objective of this work was to show, through Prospect Theory (PT), a broader approach to finance and economics, which includes concepts of psychology and sociology, how agents, and particularly investors, are susceptible to deviations from rationality that directly impact their choices, making their decisions not always by the pillars that support classical theories of finance. The research was 382 Brazilian investors.  Through the questionnaire, it is observed how much a behavioral effect dramatically influences the choices of economic agents who are mostly men and ill-prepared academically. One of the important verifications found evaluating the answers of the 382 interviewees was about the investors' reaction; in case of a loss, we have that the interviewees prefer probable losses to the detriment of certain losses, even if smaller, and this fact helps to eliminate any explanation that can be given to the certainty effect in the sense that the aversion to volatility. More than 68% when answering some of the questions violated the precepts of the Expected Utility Theory. People opted for the answer with a positive and more significant standard deviation, demonstrating that they are not risk averse.  When the certainty of the result increases, the choice for assets with smaller standard deviation increases; in this case, we have evidence of a reduction in risk aversion.
Analysis of the characteristics and effects of soiling natural accumulation on 2 photovoltaic systems: a systematic review of the literature
Authors: Souza Jose J S , Carvalho Paulo C M , Barroso Giovanni Cordeiro
Published: December 2022

We present a literature review of experimental studies aiming to characterize soiling and its effects on the generation performance of photovoltaic (PV) systems. The methodology is based on a Systematic Review of the Literature (SRL) through the elaboration and implementation of a conduction protocol, with selection criteria, search strategies and extraction and summarization procedures. In the search and identification, 3,018 Primary Studies (PSs) are initially obtained, with 151 PSs being admitted for extraction and summarization. The bibliometric analysis identifies the annual distribution of publications, main researchers, means of scientific dissemination and most used terms as keywords. The short-circuit current (Isc) is usually the parameter most affected by dirt; considering other parameters, different behaviors are identified, depending on the PV technology. The chemical elements most reported are Ca, Si, Al, O, Fe and Mg; the main mineral compounds are quartz, calcite, hematite, gypsum, and orthoclase.
Practical guide to understanding goodness-of-fit metrics used in chemical state modeling of x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy data by synthetic line shapes using nylon as an example
Authors: Fairley Neal , Bargiela Pascal , Roberts Adam , Fernandez Vincent , Baltrusaitis Jonas
Published: December 2022

Chemical state analysis of a sample surface through fitting bell-shaped curves to x-ray photoelectron spectroscopic polymer data is reviewed using nylon to introduce and discuss aspects of data analysis. Different strategies for modeling chemistry in nylon spectra are presented and in so doing, a case is made to include in published science the design logic and implementation in terms of line shapes and optimization parameter constraints between components in a peak model. Imperfections in line shape relative to the true shape for photoemission lines, when compensated for using constraints to optimization parameters, are shown to provide chemical state information about a sample that justify, for peak models constructed with these limitations, metrics for goodness-of-fit different from those expected for pulse-counted data.
Spatial release of masking in children and adults in non-individualized virtual environments
Authors: Zenke Katharina , Rosen Stuart
Published: December 2022

The spatial release of masking (SRM) is often measured in virtual auditory environments created from head-related transfer functions (HRTFs) of a standardized adult head. Adults and children, however, differ in head dimensions and mismatched HRTFs are known to affect some aspects of binaural hearing. So far, there has been little research on HRTFs in children and it is unclear whether a large mismatch of spatial cues can degrade speech perception in complex environments. In two studies, the effect of non-individualized virtual environments on SRM accuracy in adults and children was examined. The SRMs were measured in virtual environments created from individual and non-individualized HRTFs and the equivalent real anechoic environment. Speech reception thresholds (SRTs) were measured for frontal target sentences and symmetrical speech maskers at 0° or ±90° azimuth. No significant difference between environments was observed for adults. In 7 to 12-year-old children, SRTs and SRMs improved with age, with SRMs approaching adult levels. SRTs differed slightly between environments and were significantly worse in a virtual environment based on HRTFs from a spherical head. Adult HRTFs seem sufficient to accurately measure SRTs in children even in complex listening conditions.
Effect of audio-tactile congruence on vibrotactile music enhancement
Authors: Aker Scott C. , Innes-Brown Hamish , Faulkner Kathleen F. , Vatti Marianna , Marozeau Jeremy
Published: December 2022

Music listening experiences can be enhanced with tactile vibrations. However, it is not known which parameters of the tactile vibration must be congruent with the music to enhance it. Devices that aim to enhance music with tactile vibrations often require coding an acoustic signal into a congruent vibrotactile signal. Therefore, understanding which of these audio-tactile congruences are important is crucial. Participants were presented with a simple sine wave melody through supra-aural headphones and a haptic actuator held between the thumb and forefinger. Incongruent versions of the stimuli were made by randomizing physical parameters of the tactile stimulus independently of the auditory stimulus. Participants were instructed to rate the stimuli against the incongruent stimuli based on preference. It was found making the intensity of the tactile stimulus incongruent with the intensity of the auditory stimulus, as well as misaligning the two modalities in time, had the biggest negative effect on ratings for the melody used. Future vibrotactile music enhancement devices can use time alignment and intensity congruence as a baseline coding strategy, which improved strategies can be tested against.
True Grit? The Relationship Between Grit and Intentions to Enter the Athletic Training Profession
Authors: Gallucci Andrew R. , Elliott Ashlyne , Oglesby Leslie , White Kristina , Richardson Katie
Published: December 2022

Grit is a construct measuring increased perseverance for long-term goals. Research suggests that healthcare students with higher grit scores perform better academically and professionally. Grit has not been assessed in athletic training students. A total of 756 athletic training students completed the survey. Over 90% of students intended to work as an athletic trainer. Grit was a predictor of a student’s intention to practice as an athletic trainer. Females and graduate students were also more likely to enter the field of athletic training. A student’s grit score could help predict their intention to practice as an athletic trainer.
Peptidoglycan Remodeling by an L,D-Transpeptidase, LdtD during Cold Shock in Escherichia coli
Authors: Nallamotu Krishna Chaitanya , Bahadur Raj , Kaul Moneca , Reddy Manjula
Published: December 2022

Most bacteria are surrounded by a protective exoskeleton called peptidoglycan (PG), an extensively cross-linked mesh-like macromolecule. In bacteria, such as
Escherichia coli
, the cross-links in the PG are of two types: a major fraction is of 4-3 type whereas a minor fraction is of 3-3 type.
Genome Sequence of a Heterocystous Diazotroph Isolated from a
Trichodesmium
Consortium from the North Pacific Subtropical Gyre
Authors: Lei Samantha , Graham Elaina D. , Heidelberg John F. , Webb Eric A.
Published: December 2022

Diazotrophic cyanobacteria play a vital role in the nitrogen influx of the global marine ecosystem. In July 2010, colonies of
Trichodesmium
spp. were picked near Station ALOHA in the oligotrophic North Pacific Subtropical Gyre, and a novel heterocystous diazotroph (strain HetDA_MAG_MS3) belonging to the genus
Rivularia
was found living in close association; it was cultured and sequenced.
Complete Genome Sequences of Cluster S Mycobacteriophages Beelzebub, Raela, and RedRaider77
Authors: Sevcik Kristina , Preston Peace , Aulner Michaela , Noordewier Byron , Tolsma Sara S.
Published: December 2022

We isolated three mycobacteriophages that belong to cluster S, namely, Beelzebub, Raela, and RedRaider77. Annotation revealed a genome structure typical of cluster S phages, including an atypical location of two minor tail protein genes in the right arm of these viral genomes.
Staphylococcus aureus Breast Implant Infection Isolates Display Recalcitrance To Antibiotic Pocket Irrigants
Authors: Duran Ramirez Jesus M. , Gomez Jana , Hanson Blake M. , Isa Taha , Myckatyn Terence M. , Walker Jennifer N.
Published: December 2022

The incidence of breast implant associated infections (BIAIs) following reconstructive surgery postmastectomy remains high, despite the use of prophylactic antibiotic strategies. Thus, surgeons have begun using additional antibiotic-based prevention strategies, including triple antibiotic pocket irrigants (TAPIs).
Can I go home now? The safety and efficacy of a new UK paediatric febrile neutropenia protocol for risk-stratified early discharge on oral antibiotics
Authors: Jackson Thomas John , Napper Rachel , Haeusler Gabrielle M , Pizer Barry , Bate Jessica , Grundy Richard G , Samarasinghe Sujith , Angelini Paola , Ball-Gamble Ashley , Phillips Bob , Morgan Jessica Elizabeth
Published: December 2022

Objective

To evaluate a new protocol of risk stratification and early discharge for children with febrile neutropenia (FN).

Design

Prospective service evaluation from 17 April 2020 to 16 April 2021.

Setting

13 specialist centres in the UK.

Patients

405 children presenting with FN.

Intervention

All children received intravenous antibiotics at presentation. Risk stratification was determined using the Australian-UK-Swiss (AUS) rule and eligibility for homecare assessed using criteria including disease, chemotherapy, presenting features and social factors. Those eligible for homecare could be discharged on oral antibiotics after a period of observation proportional to their risk group.

Main outcome measures

Median duration of admission and of intravenous antibiotics, and percentage of patients with positive blood cultures, significant infection, readmission within 7 days of initial presentation, intensive care unit (ICU) admission, death from infection and death from other causes.

Results

13 centres contributed 729 initial presentations of 405 patients. AUS rule scores were positively correlated with positive blood cultures, significant infection, ICU admission and death. 20% of children were eligible for homecare with oral antibiotics, of which 55% were low risk (AUS 0–1). 46% low-risk homecare eligible patients were discharged by 24 hours vs 2% homecare ineligible. Homecare readmission rates were 14% overall and 16% for low-risk cases (similar to a meta-analysis of previous studies). No child eligible for homecare was admitted to ICU or died.

Conclusions

Use of the AUS rule and homecare criteria allow for safe early outpatient management of children with FN.
Evidence for empagliflozin in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF)
Authors: Adeyeye Elizabeth , Khong Teck K
Published: December 2022

Commentary on:Anker SD, Butler J, Filippatos G,et al. Empagliflozin in heart failure with a preserved ejection fraction.New England Journal of Medicine, 2021; 385:1451–61.
Energy redistribution analysis of multi-scale turbulence in centrifugal pump
Authors: Zhang Zhengchuan , Zhang Shuwei , Ma Zheng , Wang Dezhong , Yin Junlian
Published: December 2022

HIGHLIGHTS

• Effectiveness of vice blades flow control method. • Improvement mechanism of flow control method on centrifugal pump. • Energy redistribution of multi-scale turbulence by flow control method. • Design strategy for high-performance centrifugal pump.

The demand for the high-performance centrifugal pumps has grown considerably in order to address various working conditions and application scenarios. Here, a high-performance centrifugal pump capable of great hydraulic and anti-cavitation performance, and low-pressure pulsation and vibration, is realized by adding drainage vice blade to the conventional blade type. The multi-scale turbulence in centrifugal pumps is characterized by the Hybrid RANS/LES method, then the energy distributions are obtained by the proper orthogonal decomposition (POD) method. The experimental methods are employed to study the pressure pulsation and vibration characteristics. The new-type of blades can reconstruct the energy of multi-scale turbulence in centrifugal pump by concentrating the energy on low-frequency large-scale flow structures, while reducing the energy of high-frequency small-scale flow structures. A higher energy of large-scale flow structures can enhance the energy transportation and hydraulic performance in centrifugal pump. The small-scale flow structures with lower energy can suppress high-frequency excitation in flow to avoid the hydraulic resonance, which is essential to improve the dynamic characteristics of the centrifugal pumps. We propose a flow control method that can reconstruct the energy distribution of multi-scale turbulence which can greatly improve its overall performance, suggesting a broad range of promising applications.
Nilpotent group codes
Authors: Duarte A. , Pereira A. , Polcino Milies C.
Published: December 2022

In this paper, we consider essential idempotents in the finite semisimple group algebra of a nilpotent group, studying conditions for their existence and other implications. Also, we discuss conditions for nilpotent group codes to be equivalent to Abelian ones.
SwitchX: Gmin-Gmax Switching for Energy-efficient and Robust Implementation of Binarized Neural Networks on ReRAM Xbars
Authors: Bhattacharjee Abhiroop , Panda Priyadarshini
Published: December 2022

Memristive crossbars can efficiently implementBinarized Neural Networks(BNNs) wherein the weights are stored in high-resistance states (HRS) and low-resistance states (LRS) of the synapses. We proposeSwitchXmapping of BNN weights onto ReRAM crossbars such that the impact of crossbar non-idealities, that lead to degradation in computational accuracy, are minimized. Essentially,SwitchXmaps the binary weights in such a manner that a crossbar instance comprises of more HRS than LRS synapses. We find BNNs mapped onto crossbars withSwitchXto exhibit better robustness against adversarial attacks than the standard crossbar-mapped BNNs, the baseline. Finally, we combineSwitchXwith state-aware training (that further increases the feasibility of HRS states during weight mapping) to boost the robustness of a BNN on hardware. We find that this approach yields stronger defense against adversarial attacks than adversarial training, a state-of-the-art software defense. We perform experiments on a VGG16 BNN with benchmark datasets (CIFAR-10, CIFAR-100 and TinyImagenet) and useFast Gradient Sign Method(ε = 0.05 to 0.3) andProjected Gradient Descent(\(\epsilon =\frac{2}{255}\)to\(\frac{32}{255},~\alpha =\frac{2}{255}\)) adversarial attacks. We show thatSwitchXcombined with state-aware training can yield upto ∼35% improvements in clean accuracy and ∼6–16% in adversarial accuracies against conventional BNNs. Furthermore, an important by-product ofSwitchXmapping is increased crossbar power savings, owing to an increased proportion of HRS synapses, which is furthered with state-aware training. We obtain upto ∼21–22% savings in crossbar power consumption for state-aware trained BNN mapped viaSwitchXon 16 × 16 and 32 × 32 crossbars using the CIFAR-10 and CIFAR-100 datasets.
Random Quantum Circuits
Authors: Fisher Matthew P.A. , Khemani Vedika , Nahum Adam , Vijay Sagar
Published: December 2022

Quantum circuits—built from local unitary gates and local measurements—are a new playground for quantum many-body physics and a tractable setting to explore universal collective phenomena far from equilibrium. These models have shed light on longstanding questions about thermalization and chaos, and on the underlying universal dynamics of quantum information and entanglement. In addition, such models generate new sets of questions and give rise to phenomena with no traditional analog, such as dynamical phase transitions in quantum systems that are monitored by an external observer. Quantum circuit dynamics is also topical in view of experimental progress in building digital quantum simulators that allow control of precisely these ingredients. Randomness in the circuit elements allows a high level of theoretical control, with a key theme being mappings between real-time quantum dynamics and effective classical lattice models or dynamical processes. Many of the universal phenomena that can be identified in this tractable setting apply to much wider classes of more structured many-body dynamics.
Hexic Polynomial Approximation for Spherical Diffusion to Accelerate Accurate Lithium-Ion Battery Simulation
Authors: Mishra Astitva , Subramanian Venkat R. , Suthar Bharatkumar
Published: December 2022

There is a need for proper estimates of various vital internal states of Li-ion batteries in a battery management system like state of charge, state of health, state of power, and available energy for a better lifetime and user experience. These estimates Require electrochemical models that are generally coupled partial differential equations (PDEs) which are computationally expensive. This work proposes hexic polynomial-based models to provide better accuracy than the lower order polynomial-based models (parabolic and quartic models) while providing comparable computational efficiency in solving the PDE-based models for solid phase diffusion. While the constant current discharge behavior of a battery can be captured reasonably well using parabolic profile approximation, for a time-varying current (especially having high-frequency components), such lower order approximations lead to significant errors hence a hexic polynomial approximation is proposed. To compare the accuracy of different approximations for battery simulation, a single-particle model with thermal effects and an isothermal pseudo-2D model are simulated in this paper. The voltage response for the time-varying current profile in SPM shows the superiority of the hexic polynomial approximation over other lower-order approximations in providing a balance between computational efficiency and accuracy.
High Voltage and Capacity Dual-Ion Battery Using Acetonitrile-Aqueous Hybrid Electrolyte with Concentrated LiFSI-LiTFSI
Authors: Yang Dengyao , Watanabe Motonori , Takagaki Atsushi , Ishihara Tatsumi
Published: December 2022

Water-acetonitrile (AN) hybrid electrolyte with high concentration of bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl) imide (LiTFSI) and Lithium bis(fluorosulfonyl) imide (LiFSI) (LiTFSI-LiFSI=3:1, molar ratio) supporting salts are studied for the high potential and large capacity rechargeable dual-ion battery. Water-acetonitrile hybrid electrolyte (WA) shows a wide electrochemical stability window of 3.1 V in 20 m aqueous electrolyte and 3.6 V in 20 m 9LiFSI-1LiTFSI in water: AN=1:3 molar ratio electrolyte. In particular, high oxidation potential, which can be assigned to the strong solvated ionic cluster formed between AN, water and LiTFSI-LiFSI supporting salts. The dual-ion battery is assembled using the graphitic carbon (KS6) and the activated carbon (AC) as cathode and anode, respectively, and 20 m LiTFSI-LiFSI in hybrid AN-water as electrolyte. It is found that the reasonably large capacity, coulombic efficiency and cycle stability were achieved. The KS6/AC cell shows 86 mAh g−1 at the initial cycle and 50 mAh g−1 at 100th cycle in a voltage range of 0–3.25 V, and the average coulombic efficiency of 85% is sustained over 200 cycles. The solvated structure of water to Li+ is strengthened by addition of AN from ATR-IR and NMR spectrums analysis and this change in the solvated structure is the main reason for the increased performance of the aqueous dual-ion battery.
Atomistic Investigation of Solid Electrolyte Interphase: nanostructure, Chemical Composition and Mechanical Properties
Authors: Hsu P.-C. , Lin You-Chen , Wu Wei-Hsuan , Pao Chun-Wei , Chen Chih-Hung
Published: December 2022

Using lithium metal as the anode is a promising way to raise the energy density of batteries, but inevitable lithium dendrite growth hinders the development of this kind of batteries. Albeit great efforts were devoted to uncovering the mystery of the solid electrolyte interphase (SEI), which determines the stability of the plating and stripping of lithium metal, our understanding of SEI at the atomic scale is limited due to its complex structure and composition. This work proposes a computational framework, based on the reactive force field molecular dynamics (ReaxFF), for simulating the SEI formation. Our results suggest the SEI in the standard EC/DEC electrolyte resembles a heterogeneous mosaic structure with inorganic crystalline grains randomly dispersed within the amorphous polymer matrix, as the consequence of the bottom-up growth sequence. When lithium nitrate is present in the electrolyte, the preferential reduction of lithium nitrate effectively regulates the electrolyte decomposition for rendering a bilayer structure with the lithium nitrate reduction products, Li3N and LiNxOy, on top of the amorphous polymer matrix. Although these N-containing compounds are good lithium-ion conducting materials for retaining a uniform, fast lithium-ion transport through the SEI, we observe a significant decrease in the mechanical performance due to the high-porosity structure.
Evaluation of Marker Compounds and Biological Activity of In Vitro Regenerated and Commercial Rehmannia glutinosa (Gaertn.) DC. Roots Subjected to Steam Processing
Authors: Rahmat Endang , Chung Yuseong , Nam Hyeon Hwa , Lee A. Yeong , Park Jun Hong , Kang Youngmin
Published: December 2022

Rehmannia glutinosa (Gaertn.) DC., belonging to the family Scrophulariaceae, has been known since immemorial times as a prominent oriental drug in East Asia that can treat various ailments, such as kidney disorders, anemia, and diabetes. In order to be applied for medical purposes, R. glutinosa is commonly processed using steam to increase its efficacy and biological activity. The increasing demand for R. glutinosa in the traditional medicine industry encouraged many researchers to develop a fast, efficient, and high-quality production system using biotechnological approaches. This study aimed to compare the chemical and biological activities of in vitro regenerated R. glutinosa (PKR) and commercial R. glutinosa (PCR) samples subjected to steam processing. We assessed the effects of steam processing and the differences in R. glutinosa material on 5-Hydroxymethyl-2-furaldehyde (5-HMF) content, total flavonoid and phenolic content, antioxidant activity, nitric oxide (NO) levels, and anti-inflammatory activity. PKR samples showed a significantly higher content of 5-HMF (0.15%) as compared to PCR samples (0.05%). Compared to unprocessed R. glutinosa (UPR) and PCR samples, PKR again showed the highest total phenolic and flavonoid content of 41.578 mg GAE/g and 17.208 mg RUE/g, respectively. Meanwhile, both processed R. glutinosa samples (PKR and PCR) showed a significantly higher DPPH antioxidant activity ((67.095 + 1.005)% and (61.579 + 0.907)%, respectively) than unprocessed R. glutinosa ((31.452 + 1.371)%). In addition, both PKR and PCR samples showed good anti-inflammatory activity by showing similar effects such as the inhibition of NO production and the suppression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS). Based on these results, PKR fulfilled the Chinese pharmacopeia standards, in terms of the amount of the marker compounds and showed a high level of bioactivity. Therefore, these findings are expected to be useful in verifying the efficacy of herbal medicines and the availability of suitable materials for medicinal use.
SLC2A9 rs1014290 Polymorphism is Associated with Prediabetes and Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Zhang Xuemei , Hou Guangsen , Li Fang , Zheng Xiao , Nie Qian , Song Guangyao
Published: December 2022

Purpose. To investigate the association of the A/G rs1014290 polymorphism in SLC2A9 with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) and prediabetes mellitus (pre-DM). Patients and Methods. We enrolled 1058 patients who attended the Hebei General Hospital, Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, China. The patients underwent general testing and oral glucose tolerance tests and were divided into three groups: 352 patients newly diagnosed with T2DM, 358 patients with pre-DM, and 348 healthy controls. The single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) was detected by ligase detection reactions. The χ2 test, one-way ANOVA, and binary logistic regression analysis were used to analyze the results. Results. In the T2DM group, the GG genotype frequency at the rs1014290 locus was significantly lower (14.8%) than it was in the healthy controls. Furthermore, the GG genotype group was associated with a reduced risk of T2DM in unadjusted and confounder-adjusted models compared with the risk in the AA genotype group. The G allele in the SLC2A9 rs1014290 locus decreased susceptibility to T2DM. In the pre-DM group, the GG and AG genotype groups had no significant correlation with the risk of pre-DM in any of the models. In the T2DM group, the uric acid level was significantly lower in the GG genotype group. In the T2DM and pre-DM groups, the HOMA-β levels were significantly higher in the GA (

P
 
<
0.001

) and GG (

P
 
<
0.001

) genotype groups than it was in the AA genotype group, and HOMA-IR was significantly lower in the GA (

P
 
<
0.001

) and GG (

P
 
<
0.001

) genotype groups than it was in the AA genotype group. Conclusion. The A/G (rs1014290) SNP in SLC2A9 is closely related to the occurrence and development of diabetes.