bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fully Light‐Controlled Memory and Neuromorphic Computation in Layered Black Phosphorus
Authors: Ahmed Taimur , Tahir Muhammad , Low Mei Xian , Ren Yanyun , Tawfik Sherif Abdulkader , Mayes Edwin L. H. , Kuriakose Sruthi , Nawaz Shahid , Spencer Michelle J. S. , Chen Hua , Bhaskaran Madhu , Sriram Sharath , Walia Sumeet
Published: November 2020

Imprinting vision as memory is a core attribute of human cognitive learning. Fundamental to artificial intelligence systems are bioinspired neuromorphic vision components for the visible and invisible segments of the electromagnetic spectrum. Realization of a single imaging unit with a combination of in‐built memory and signal processing capability is imperative to deploy efficient brain‐like vision systems. However, the lack of a platform that can be fully controlled by light without the need to apply alternating polarity electric signals has hampered this technological advance. Here, a neuromorphic imaging element based on a fully light‐modulated 2D semiconductor in a simple reconfigurable phototransistor structure is presented. This standalone device exhibits inherent characteristics that enable neuromorphic image pre‐processing and recognition. Fundamentally, the unique photoresponse induced by oxidation‐related defects in 2D black phosphorus (BP) is exploited to achieve visual memory, wavelength‐selective multibit programming, and erasing functions, which allow in‐pixel image pre‐processing. Furthermore, all‐optically driven neuromorphic computation is demonstrated by machine learning to classify numbers and recognize images with an accuracy of over 90%. The devices provide a promising approach toward neurorobotics, human–machine interaction technologies, and scalable bionic systems with visual data storage/buffering and processing.
How Can Interfacial Phenomena in Nature Inspire Smaller Robots
Authors: Feldmann David , Das Rakesh , Pinchasik Bat‐El
Published: November 2020

In nature, surfaces are evolutionarily designed to allow adaptation of species to their environments. Insects make extensive use of interfacial phenomena because of their small size and thus, large surface‐area‐to‐volume ratio. This enables them to walk on different terrains, dive, swim, and adhere to surfaces in air and underwater. Moreover, they toggle between different interfaces, move in confined spaces, and overcome a wide range of obstacles. This progress report summarizes emerging directions in the field of bioinspired robotics with an emphasis on micro and nanoscale dynamic interactions. It is envisioned that interfacial phenomena will allow to miniaturize robots and increase the complexity of their operation. The key to success is the combination of functional surfaces, structural design and multiple modes of locomotion. For this to be realized, however, new paradigms are needed in terms of materials, fabrication, energy consumption, and actuation. This report discusses the development of small robots inspired by water striders, the bell spider, the leaf and ladybird beetles, backswimmers and cockroaches, among many others. It also discusses small soft robots inspired by roundworms, larvae, and parasites. From a broader perspective, fabrication of many small robots will enable to study collective effects and self‐assembly, group behavior and swarming.
Tunable Optical Properties of 2D Materials and Their Applications
Authors: Ma Qijie , Ren Guanghui , Xu Kai , Ou Jian Zhen
Published: November 2020

Recent efforts have been heavily devoted to the development of next‐generation optoelectronic devices based on 2D materials, due to their unique optical properties that are distinctly different from those of bulk counterparts. Given that the feature of flexible tunability is highly desired, various approaches have been demonstrated to efficiently modulate the optical properties, eventually enabling peculiar functionalities or realizing high‐performance nanoscale devices. Here, this review focuses on recent advances in tuning the optical properties of 2D materials by external stimuli including electric field, mechanical strain, magnetic field, acoustic wave, and thermal heating. Also, such tunability leads to many emerging applications in the fields of electronics, optics, sensors, and energy harvesting, which are summarized and critically discussed in the paper.
Covalent Organic Frameworks in Catalytic Organic Synthesis
Authors: Cheng Hai‐Yang , Wang Tao
Published: November 2020

Covalent organic frameworks (COFs), which are built upon dynamic covalent chemistry (DCC) with various organic building blocks, possess predesignable, highly ordered and crystalline porous structures. These features endow COFs with great potential in the development of function‐tailored materials, particularly in catalytic organic synthesis. Start from selective oxidation reactions early introduced by Ferdi, Thomas and their co‐workers, and then Wang and co‐workers performed Suzuki‐Miyaura reaction through integrating palladium into COFs, increasing numbers of works were established to explore their potentials in the 4.5catalysis of organic reactions. As heterogeneous organic catalysts, COFs bring benefits and solve problems, but also create new obstacles. Hence, we would like to establish a comprehensive system to review some pioneering works in this area. This will help us get a better view so that we can discuss the key and challenging issues we are currently confronted with.

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Recent Advances in the Synthesis of Heterocyclics via Cascade Cyclization of Propargylic Alcohols
Authors: Song Xian‐Rong , Yang Ruchun , Xiao Qiang
Published: November 2020

Heterocyclic compounds are important organic compounds and have emerged as key scaffolds in numerous drugs, natural products, vitamins, biologically and pharmaceutically active compounds. Over the past few decades, the development of versatile methodologies employing propargylic alcohols as synthons for the construction of heterocyclic skeletons has attracted great attention from synthetic chemists. In this review, recent developments in the cascade cyclization of propargylic alcohols with diverse nucleophiles to construct heterocyclic compounds are summarized. According to the types of nucleophiles, these reactions can be divided into four categories: 1) Reactions involving C‐nucleophiles to capture allenyl carbocation; 2) Reactions involving O, S‐nucleophiles to capture allenyl carbocation; 3) Reactions involving N, P‐nucleophiles to capture allenyl carbocation; 4) Reactions involving halo‐nucleophiles to capture allenyl carbocation.

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Photocatalytic Oxygen Evolution from Water Splitting
Authors: Lin Sen , Huang Hongwei , Ma Tianyi , Zhang Yihe
Published: November 2020

Photocatalytic water splitting has attracted a lot of attention in recent years, and O2 evolution is the decisive step owing to the complex four‐electrons reaction process. Though many studies have been conducted, it is necessary to systematically summarize and introduce the research on photocatalytic O2 evolution, and thus a systematic review is needed. First, the corresponding principles about O2 evolution and some urgently encountered issues based on the fundamentals of photocatalytic water splitting are introduced. Then, several types of classical water oxidation photocatalysts, including TiO2, BiVO4, WO3, α‐Fe2O3, and some newly developed ones, such as Sillén–Aurivillius perovskites, porphyrins, metal–organic frameworks, etc., are highlighted in detail, in terms of their crystal structures, synthetic approaches, and morphologies. Third, diverse strategies for O2 evolution activity improvement via enhancing photoabsorption and charge separation are presented, including the cocatalysts loading, heterojunction construction, doping and vacancy formation, and other strategies. Finally, the key challenges and future prospects with regard to photocatalytic O2 evolution are proposed. The purpose of this review is to provide a timely summary and guideline for the future research works for O2 evolution.
Revealing the Similarities of α,β‐Unsaturated Iminiums and Acylazoliums in Organocatalysis
Authors: Ghosh Arghya , Biju Akkattu T.
Published: November 2020

The secondary amine‐catalyzed reactions proceeding via α,β‐unsaturated iminiums and the N‐heterocyclic carbene (NHC)‐catalyzed transformations taking place via α,β‐unsaturated acylazoliums are the two widely used electrophilic intermediates in organocatalysis. Over the last two decades, these two intermediates are extensively utilized for the enantioselective construction of valuable molecules. Both intermediates are generated by the covalent binding of catalysts to the substrates leading to LUMO activation of α,β‐unsaturated carbonyls. A variety of soft nucleophiles are known to add to the α,β‐unsaturated iminiums and acylazoliums in a conjugate fashion, and in many cases, striking similarity in reactivity has been observed. Having said this, there are few cases where these intermediates exhibit difference in reactivity. This Minireview is aimed at highlighting the resemblances in reactivity between α,β‐unsaturated iminiums and acylazoliums thereby shedding light on the unnoticed parallels of the two intermediates in organocatalysis.
Atypical Inter‐Network Deactivation Associated With the Posterior Default‐Mode Network in Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Kotila Aija , Järvelä Matti , Korhonen Vesa , Loukusa Soile , Hurtig Tuula , Ebeling Hanna , Kiviniemi Vesa , Raatikainen Ville
Published: November 2020

Previous studies have suggested that atypical deactivation of functional brain networks contributes to the complex cognitive and behavioral profile associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). However, these studies have not considered the temporal dynamics of deactivation mechanisms between the networks. In this study, we examined (a) mutual deactivation and (b) mutual activation‐deactivation (i.e., anticorrelated) time‐lag patterns between resting‐state networks (RSNs) in young adults with ASD (n = 20) and controls (n = 20) by applying the recently defined dynamic lag analysis (DLA) method, which measures time‐lag variations peak‐by‐peak between the networks. In order to achieve temporally accurate lag patterns, the brain imaging data was acquired with a fast functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) sequence (TR = 100 ms). Group‐level independent component analysis was used to identify 16 RSNs for the DLA. We found altered mutual deactivation timings in ASD in (a) three of the deactivated and (b) two of the transiently anticorrelated (activated‐deactivated) RSN pairs, which survived the strict threshold for significance of surrogate data. Of the significant RSN pairs, 80% included the posterior default‐mode network (DMN). We propose that temporally altered deactivation mechanisms, including timings and directionality, between the posterior DMN and RSNs mediating processing of socially relevant information may contribute to the ASD phenotype.

Lay Summary

To understand autistic traits on a neural level, we examined temporal fluctuations in information flow between brain regions in young adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and controls. We used a fast neuroimaging procedure to investigate deactivation mechanisms between brain regions. We found that timings and directionality of communication between certain brain regions were temporally altered in ASD, suggesting atypical deactivation mechanisms associated with the posterior default‐mode network.
Scaffold‐free biofabrication of adipocyte structures with magnetic levitation
Authors: Sarigil Oyku , Anil‐Inevi Muge , Firatligil‐Yildirir Burcu , Unal Yagmur Ceren , Yalcin‐Ozuysal Ozden , Mese Gulistan , Tekin H. Cumhur , Ozcivici Engin
Published: November 2020

Tissue engineering research aims to repair the form and/or function of impaired tissues. Tissue engineering studies mostly rely on scaffold‐based techniques. However, these techniques have certain challenges, such as the selection of proper scaffold material, including mechanical properties, sterilization, and fabrication processes. As an alternative, we propose a novel scaffold‐free adipose tissue biofabrication technique based on magnetic levitation. In this study, a label‐free magnetic levitation technique was used to form three‐dimensional (3D) scaffold‐free adipocyte structures with various fabrication strategies in a microcapillary‐based setup. Adipogenic‐differentiated 7F2 cells and growth D1 ORL UVA stem cells were used as model cells. The morphological properties of the 3D structures of single and cocultured cells were analyzed. The developed procedure leads to the formation of different patterns of single and cocultured adipocytes without a scaffold. Our results indicated that adipocytes formed loose structures while growth cells were tightly packed during 3D culture in the magnetic levitation platform. This system has potential for ex vivo modeling of adipose tissue for drug testing and transplantation applications for cell therapy in soft tissue damage. Also, it will be possible to extend this technique to other cell and tissue types.
Carbon management accounting and financial performance: Evidence from the European Union emission trading system
Authors: Naranjo Tuesta Yenny , Crespo Soler Cristina , Ripoll Feliu Vicente
Published: November 2020

Companies are responding to the effects of climate change by reducing CO2emissions as a way of managing stakeholder interests and complying with legal and regulatory requirements. In Europe, the emissions trading system is consolidated as a limiting market and control scheme to support business climate change management through a collaborative relationship between government and industry. This work focuses on the economic accounting field, analysing carbon management accounting and its impact on financial performance in scenarios attached to that trading system. The methodological approach used is quantitative, empirically testing the hypotheses through a multiple regression analysis with a sample of 350 European companies. The results attest to the importance of carbon management accounting (CMA) control and its effects on financial performance. Compared with European emission trading, the results failed to display significant differences in the relationship studied between those that make up this type of market and those that do not.
Deactivation of Industrial Pd/Al2O3 Catalysts by Ethanol: A Spectroscopic Study
Authors: Carosso Michele , Vottero Eleonora , Morandi Sara , Manzoli Maela , Ferri Davide , Fovanna Thibault , Pellegrini Riccardo , Piovano Andrea , Groppo Elena
Published: November 2020

The chemical processes involved in the decomposition of ethanol over two industrial Pd/Al2O3 catalysts characterized by different Pd dispersions, particles morphology and reducibility of the active metal phase was thoroughly investigated in gas‐phase and in liquid‐phase by transmission FT‐IR and ATR‐IR spectroscopies, respectively. In both cases, two main products were detected, arising from two competitive paths: acetates from ethanol oxidation and carbonyls from acetaldehyde decarbonylation. The regularity of the Pd particles greatly affects the relative proportion of the two products, while the initial Pd oxidation state influences the kinetics of the two processes. Ethanol oxidation to acetates is the kinetically favored reaction path both in gas‐phase and in liquid‐phase. In contrast, the presence of a solvent dampens the decarbonylation process to very low levels, because the solvent competes with ethanol in occupying the available surface sites. Since adsorbed carbonyls are considered as surface poisons of industrial Pd/Al2O3 catalysts in processes involving aliphatic as well as aromatic alcohols, the rationalization of the experimental variables affecting alcohols decomposition can help in establishing working protocols and in designing preparation procedures that minimize the unwanted poisoning effects.
(o‐Phenylenediamino)borylstannanes: Efficient Reagents for Borylation of Various Alkyl Radical Precursors
Authors: Suzuki Kensuke , Nishimoto Yoshihiro , Yasuda Makoto
Published: November 2020

(o‐Phenylenediamino)borylstannanes were newly synthesized to achieve radical boryl substitutions of a variety of alkyl radical precursors. Dehalogenative, deaminative, decharcogenative, and decarboxylative borylations proceeded in the presence of a radical initiator to give the corresponding organic boron compounds. Radical clock experiments and computational studies have provided insights into the mechanism of the homolytic substitution (SH2) of the borylstannanes with alkyl radical intermediates. DFT calculation disclosed that the phenylenediamino structure lowered the LUMO level including the vacant p‐orbital on the boron atom to enhance the reactivity to alkyl radicals in SH2. Moreover, C(sp3)‐H borylation of THF was accomplished using the triplet state of xanthone.
Lung cancer screening eligibility and use with low‐dose computed tomography: Results from the 2018 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System cross‐sectional survey
Authors: Narayan Anand K. , Gupta Yasha , Little Brent P. , Shepard Joanne O. , Flores Efren J.
Published: November 2020

Background

In randomized controlled trials, lung cancer screening with low‐dose chest computed tomography (LCS) has been reported to reduce lung cancer mortality. Although initial studies suggested that only approximately 5% of eligible patients have undergone LCS, recent studies have indicated that use of LCS may be increasing nationwide. The objective of the current study was to estimate recent LCS use using cross‐sectional survey data from the 2018 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) survey.

Methods

The BRFSS is a nationally representative, cross‐sectional telephone survey of adults in the United States (response rate of approximately 50%). The 2018 BRFSS survey included questions regarding LCS eligibility and use in 8 states. The primary outcome was the percentage of participants (aged 55‐79 years with a smoking history of >30 pack‐years) who reported undergoing LCS. Logistic regression analyses evaluated the association between LCS use and sociodemographic characteristics, adjusted for potential confounders and accounting for complex survey design elements.

Results

A total of 26,910 participants were included, 9.9% of whom were eligible for LCS (95% CI, 8.8%‐10.6%). Of the eligible patients, 19.2% reported undergoing LCS (95% CI, 14.0%‐24.4%). Approximately 16.4% of current smokers were eligible for LCS (95% CI, 14.2%‐18.6%). In our multiple variable analyses of eligible patients, age, sex, marital status, current smoking status, and race were not found to be associated with statistically significant differences in reported LCS (P > .05). Retired patients, patients with personal physicians, and patients who did not complete a high school education were more likely to report receiving LCS (P < .05).

Conclusions

Compared with previously published studies, the results of the current study suggested that LCS use is increasing. However, LCS use remains low (19%) among eligible participants.
Nanorods Based on Mesoporous Silica Containing Iron Oxide Nanoparticles as Catalytic Nanomotors: Study of Motion Dynamics
Authors: Mestre Rafael , Cadefau Núria , Hortelão Ana C. , Grzelak Jan , Gich Martí , Roig Anna , Sánchez Samuel
Published: November 2020

Self‐propelled particles and, in particular, those based on mesoporous silica, have raised considerable interest due to their potential applications in the environmental and biomedical fields thanks to their biocompatibility, tunable surface chemistry and large porosity. Although spherical particles have been widely used to fabricate nano‐ and micromotors, not much attention has been paid to other geometries, such as nanorods. Here, we report the fabrication of self‐propelled mesoporous silica nanorods (MSNRs) that move by the catalytic decomposition of hydrogen peroxide by a sputtered Pt layer, Fe2O3 nanoparticles grown within the mesopores, or the synergistic combination of both. We show that motion can occur in two distinct sub‐populations characterized by two different motion dynamics, namely enhanced diffusion or directional propulsion, especially when both catalysts are used. These results open up the possibility of using MSNRs as chassis for the fabrication of self‐propelled particles for the environmental or biomedical fields.
Stock movement prediction with sentiment analysis based on deep learning networks
Authors: Shi Yong , Zheng Yuanchun , Guo Kun , Ren Xinyue
Published: November 2020

With the development of Internet and big data, it is more convenient for investors to share opinions or have a discuss with others via the web, which creates massive unstructured data. These data reflect investors' emotions and their investment intentions, and it will further affect the movement of the stock market. Although researchers have been attempted to use sentiment information to predict the market, the sentiment features used are driven by outdated emotion extraction systems. In this article, we proposed a new sentiment analysis system with deep neural networks for stock comments and applied estimated sentiment information to the stock movement forecasting. The empirical results showed that our deep sentiment classification method achieved a 9% improvement over the logistic regression algorithm, and provided an accurate sentiment extractor for the next predicting step. In addition our new hybrid features that mix stock trading data and sentiment information achieved 1.25% improvement among 150 Chinese stocks in the testing dataset. For American stocks, the sentiment information would reduced the predicting results. We found that emotion features extracted from comments are indeed effective for stocks with a higher price to book value and a lower beta risk value in China.
Artificial Neural Networks for Noise Removal in Data‐Sparse Charged Particle Imaging Experiments
Authors: Sparling Chris , Ruget Alice , Kotsina Nikoleta , Leach Jonathan , Townsend Dave
Published: November 2020

We present the first demonstration of artificial neural networks (ANNs) for the removal of Poissonian noise in charged particle imaging measurements with very low overall counts. The approach is successfully applied to both simulated and real experimental image data relating to the detection of photoions/photoelectrons in unimolecular photochemical dynamics studies. Specific examples consider the multiphoton ionization of pyrrole and (S)‐camphor. Our results reveal an extremely high level of performance, with the ANNs transforming images that are unusable for any form of quantitative analysis into statistically reliable data with an impressive similarity to benchmark references. Given the widespread use of charged particle imaging methods within the chemical dynamics community, we anticipate that the use of ANNs has significant potential impact – particularly, for example, when working in the limit of very low absorption/photoionization cross‐sections, or when attempting to reliably extract subtle image features originating from phenomena such as photofragment vector correlations or photoelectron circular dichroism.
Effects of solar radiation on root and shoot growth of maize and the quantitative relationship between them
Authors: Guo Xiaoxia , Yang Yunshan , Liu Huifang , Liu Guangzhou , Liu Wanmao , Wang Yonghong , Zhao Rulang , Ming Bo , Xie Ruizhi , Wang Keru , Hou Peng , Xiao Chunhua , Li Shaokun
Published: November 2020

Solar radiation is an important environmental factor affecting maize (Zea maysL.) root and shoot growth and grain yield. This study was conducted in Qitai and Yinchuan, China, in 2018 and 2019. The maize cultivars of XY335, ZD958, and DH618 and planting densities of 7.5 × 104(D1) and 12 × 104plants ha−1(D2) were adopted under shading levels of 15 (S1), 30 (S2), and 50% (S3) with natural light as the control (CK). The results showed that averaging all shading and density treatments over the 2 yr, shading reduced the grain yields of XY335, ZD958, and DH618 by an average of 40.4, 39.2, and 35.6%, respectively, compared with the CK. The effect of solar radiation on the root dry weight was greater than that on the shoot dry weight, which resulted in a decrease in root/shoot ratio with increasing shading level. The quantitative analysis results showed that for every 1‐MJ m−2decrease in solar radiation, the root dry weight, shoot dry weight, and root/shoot ratio decreased by 0.1938 g m−2, 1.3517 g m−2, and 0.0103 × 10−2, respectively. According to this quantitative relationship, it was helpful to select cultivars and planting density with suitable root characteristics under different solar radiation conditions in different regions. From the aspects of shoot and grain yield, DH618 was more shade resistant, and its root system rapidly adjusted to compensate for shoot growth and yield formation when solar radiation decreased. Such cultivars should be given attention in future production and breeding.
Catalytic C−H Functionalization of Unreactive Furan Cores in Bio‐Derived Platform Chemicals
Authors: Karlinskii Bogdan Y. , Ananikov Valentine P.
Published: November 2020

C−H functionalization is one of the most convenient and powerful tools in the arsenal of modern chemistry, deservedly nominated as the “Holy Grail” of organic synthesis. A frequent disadvantage of this method is the need for harsh reaction conditions to carry out transformations of inert C−H bonds, which limits the possibility of its use for modifying less stable substrates. Biomass‐derived furan platform chemicals, which have a relatively unstable aromatic furan core and highly reactive side chain substituents, are extremely promising and valuable organic molecules that are currently widely used in a variety of research and industrial fields. The high sensitivity of furan derivatives to acids, strong oxidants, and high temperatures significantly limits the use of classical methods of C−H functionalization for their modification. New methods of catalytic functionalization of non‐reactive furan cores are urgently required to obtain a new generation of materials with controlled properties and potentially bioactive substances.
Flow cytometric method transfer: Recommendations for best practice
Authors: Cabanski Maciej , Oldaker Teri , Stewart Jennifer J. , Selliah Nithianandan , Eck Steve , Green Cherie , Litwin Virginia , Vitaliti Alessandra
Published: November 2020

As with many aspects of the validation and monitoring of flow cytometric methods, the method transfer processes and acceptance criteria described for other technologies are not fully applicable. This is due to the complexity of the highly configurable instrumentation, the complexity of cellular measurands, the lack of qualified reference materials for most assays, and limited specimen stability. There are multiple reasons for initiating a method transfer, multiple regulatory settings, and multiple context of use. All of these factors influence the specific requirements for the method transfer. This recommendation paper describes the considerations and best practices for the transfer of flow cytometric methods and provides individual case studies as examples. In addition, the manuscript emphasizes the importance of appropriately conducting a method transfer on data reliability.
Emotion dysregulation and suicidality in eating disorders
Authors: Rania Marianna , Monell Elin , Sjölander Arvid , Bulik Cynthia M.
Published: November 2020

Objective

Suicidality in eating disorders (EDs) is high, and identification of therapeutically targetable traits associated with past, current, and future suicidality is of considerable clinical importance. We examined overall and ED subtype‐specific associations among suicidal ideation, suicide attempts, and general and specific aspects of emotion dysregulation in a large sample of individuals with ED, at presentation for treatment and 1‐year follow‐up.

Method

Using registry data from 2,406 patients, scores on the Difficulties in Emotion Dysregulation Scale (DERS) at initial registration were examined as predictors of recent suicidal ideation and self‐report lifetime suicide attempts. Associations were examined in the full sample and in each ED subtype. In 406 patients, initial DERS scores were examined as predictors of suicidality at 1‐year follow‐up.

Results

Overall DERS was associated with suicidal ideation and suicide attempts, even when adjusting for ED psychopathology and current depression. Perceived lack of emotion regulation strategies showed unique associations with suicidal ideation and suicide attempts, both in the full sample and in most ED subtypes. Initial DERS was also associated with follow‐up suicidal ideation and suicide attempts, although this association did not remain when adjusting for past suicidality.

Discussion

Results suggest that emotion dysregulation may be a potential mechanism contributing to suicidality in EDs, beyond the effects of ED psychopathology and current depression. Although the prevalence of suicidality differs across ED subtypes, emotion dysregulation may represent a risk trait for future suicidality that applies transdiagnostically. Results support addressing emotion dysregulation in treatment in order to reduce suicidality.
Increased susceptibility to SARS‐CoV‐2 infection in patients with reduced left ventricular ejection fraction
Authors: Matsushita Kensuke , Marchandot Benjamin , Carmona Adrien , Curtiaud Anais , El Idrissi Anis , Trimaille Antonin , Kibler Marion , Cardi Thomas , Heger Joe , Hess Sebastien , Reydel Antje , Jesel Laurence , Ohlmann Patrick , Morel Olivier
Published: November 2020

Aims

Cardiovascular disease has been recognized as a major determinant of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) vulnerability and severity. Angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE) 2 is a functional receptor for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) and is up‐regulated in patients with heart failure. We sought to examine the potential association between reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and the susceptibility to SARS‐CoV‐2 infection.

Methods and results

Of the 1162 patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention between February 2014 and October 2018, we enrolled 889 patients with available clinical follow‐up data. Follow‐up was conducted by telephone interviews 1 month after the start of the French lockdown which began on 17 March 2020. Patients were divided into two groups according to LVEF <40% (reduced LVEF) (n = 91) or ≥40% (moderately reduced + preserved LVEF) (n = 798). The incidence of COVID‐19‐related hospitalization or death was significantly higher in the reduced LVEF group as compared with the moderately reduced + preserved LVEF group (9% vs. 1%, P < 0.001). No association was found between discontinuation of ACE‐inhibitor or angiotensin‐receptor blockers and COVID‐19 test positivity. By multivariate logistic regression analysis, reduced LVEF was an independent predictor of COVID‐19 hospitalization or death (odds ratio: 6.91, 95% confidence interval: 2.60 to 18.35, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

In a large cohort of patients with previous ACS, reduced LVEF was associated with increased susceptibility to COVID‐19. Aggressive COVID‐19 testing and therapeutic strategies may be considered for patient with impaired heart function.
Feasibility of high‐intensity interval training in patients with left ventricular assist devices: a pilot study
Authors: Alvarez Villela Miguel , Chinnadurai Thiru , Salkey Kalil , Furlani Andrea , Yanamandala Mounica , Vukelic Sasha , Sims Daniel B. , Shin Jooyoung J. , Saeed Omar , Jorde Ulrich P. , Patel Snehal R.
Published: November 2020

Aims

Patients with left ventricular assist device (LVAD) suffer from persistent exercise limitation despite improvement of their heart failure syndrome. Exercise training (ET) programmes to improve aerobic capacity have shown modest efficacy. High‐intensity interval training (HIIT), as an alternative to moderate continuous training, has not been systematically tested in this population. We examine the feasibility of a short, personalized HIIT programme in patients with LVAD and describe its effects on aerobic capacity and left ventricular remodelling.

Methods and results

Patients on durable LVAD support were prospectively enrolled in a 15‐session, 5 week HIIT programme. Turndown echocardiogram, Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire, and cardiopulmonary exercise test were performed before and after HIIT. Training workloads for each subject were based on pretraining peak cardiopulmonary exercise test work rate (W). Percentage of prescribed training workload completed and adverse events were recorded for each subject. Fifteen subjects were enrolled [10 men, age = 51 (29–71) years, HeartMate II = 12, HeartMate 3 = 3, and time on LVAD = 18 (3–64) months]. Twelve completed post‐training testing. HIIT was well tolerated, and 90% (inter‐quartile range: 78, 99%) of the prescribed workload (W) was completed with no major adverse events. Improvements were seen in aV̇O2 at ventilatory threshold [7.1 (6.5, 9.1) to 8.5 (7.7, 9.3) mL/kg/min, P = 0.04], work rate at ventilatory threshold [44 (14, 54) to 55 (21, 66) W, P = 0.05], and left ventricular end‐diastolic volume [168 (144, 216) to 159 (124, 212) mL, n = 7, P = 0.02]. HIIT had no effect on maximal oxygen consumption (V̇O2peak) or Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire score.

Conclusions

Cardiopulmonary exercise test‐guided HIIT is feasible and can improve submaximal aerobic capacity in stable patients with chronic LVAD support. Further studies are needed on its effects on the myocardium and its potential role in cardiac rehabilitation programmes.
Prevalence of wild type transtyrethin cardiac amyloidosis in a heart failure clinic
Authors: Lindmark Krister , Pilebro Björn , Sundström Torbjörn , Lindqvist Per
Published: November 2020

Aims

Wild type transthyretin amyloidosis (ATTRwt) has gained interest during recent years due to better diagnostic tools and the emergence of treatment options. Little is known about the prevalence of the disease. We aimed to investigate the prevalence in a heart failure population with myocardial hypertrophy.

Methods and results

All patients with an ICD code of heart failure living within the catchment area of Umeå University hospital and intraventricular septum >14 mm were offered screening with 3,3‐diphosphono‐1,2‐propanodicarboxylic acid (DPD) scan and a clinical work up. Out of 2238 patients with heart failure, 174 patients were found to have a septum >14 mm. Ten patients were already diagnosed with hereditary ATTR cardiomyopathy, 12 patients had ATTRwt cardiomyopathy, 12 patients had known HCM, one patient had AL amyloidosis, and four patients had already undergone a negative DPD scan (DPD uptake grade 0 and 1) within the last 3 years. This left 134 patients who we tried to contact for screening, but 48 patients had either died or declined to participate. Out of 86 screened patients, 13 had a DPD uptake of grade 2 or 3 without other amyloid disease making the total number of patients with ATTRwt in this population 25.

Conclusions

Approximately 20% of investigated patients in a cohort with heart failure and increased myocardial wall thickness has ATTRwt. Calculated for the whole population of heart failure patients, the prevalence is just over 1.1%. Comparing this number to the total population would give an estimated prevalence of 1:6000.
FDS simulations and modelling efforts of travelling fires in a large elongated compartment
Authors: Anderson Johan , Sjöström Johan , Temple Alastair , Charlier Marion , Dai Xu , Welch Stephen , Rush David
Published: November 2020

The present paper investigates a travelling fire scenario in an elongated structure (Length 18 m × width 6 m × height 3 m) with a controlled fire source of six trays filled with diesel (width 4 m × length 0.5 m). The fire spread is controlled manually by initiating fires consecutively in the pools. Fire dynamics simulator (FDS) is used to a‐priori investigate variations in geometry, material data and fire load, whereas simulations using the final design and measured heat release rates (HRR) were performed after the test. The input to the model beside fire source and geometry are thermal material data. The FDS simulations were used to determine the appropriate size of the downstands (2 m from the ceiling in the final design) on the side to create a sufficiently one‐dimensional fire spread. The post‐test simulations indicate that although there are a lot of variations not included in the model similar results were obtained as in the test.
Development of nanochitosan‐based active packaging films containing free and nanoliposome caraway (Carum carvi. L) seed extract
Authors: Homayounpour Parisa , Shariatifar Nabi , Alizadeh‐Sani Mahmood
Published: November 2020

The biocompatible active films were prepared based on nanochitosan (NCh) containing free and nanoliposome caraway seed extract (NLCE). The produced films were characterized by physico‐mechanical, barrier, structural, color, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties. The average particle size of NLCE was 78–122 nm, and the encapsulation efficiency (EE%) was obtained 49.87%–73.07%. Nanoliposomes with the lowest size and the highest encapsulation efficiency were merged with the film samples. NCh/CE3% and NCh/NLCE3% films had higher stability compared to other films and showed the highest antimicrobial activity (3.68 mm inhibition) and radical quenching capacity (51%), respectively. Likewise, biodegradable active films containing nanoliposomes had lower antimicrobial potential and higher antioxidant capacity than films containing free extract with similar concentration. The Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) results revealed new interactions between NCh and nanoliposomes. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) investigation also exhibited a homogenous structure and nearly smooth surface morphology with a good dispersion for NCh/NLCE films. Despite an increase in yellowness (b value) and a decrease in whiteness (L value) index, the incorporation of nanoliposomes within the NCh films improved the mechanical flexibility (from 10.2% to 15.05%) and reduced water vapor permeability (WVP) (from 14.2 × 10–12 g/m·s·Pa to 11.9 × 10–12 g/m·s·Pa). Today, due to the growing trend toward natural ingredients, the use of nanoparticles derived from plant derivatives has expanded in the food industry owing to their antimicrobial and antioxidant properties.
Rapid invisible frequency tagging reveals nonlinear integration of auditory and visual information
Authors: Drijvers Linda , Jensen Ole , Spaak Eelke
Published: November 2020

During communication in real‐life settings, the brain integrates information from auditory and visual modalities to form a unified percept of our environment. In the current magnetoencephalography (MEG) study, we used rapid invisible frequency tagging (RIFT) to generate steady‐state evoked fields and investigated the integration of audiovisual information in a semantic context. We presented participants with videos of an actress uttering action verbs (auditory; tagged at 61 Hz) accompanied by a gesture (visual; tagged at 68 Hz, using a projector with a 1,440 Hz refresh rate). Integration difficulty was manipulated by lower‐order auditory factors (clear/degraded speech) and higher‐order visual factors (congruent/incongruent gesture). We identified MEG spectral peaks at the individual (61/68 Hz) tagging frequencies. We furthermore observed a peak at the intermodulation frequency of the auditory and visually tagged signals (fvisual − fauditory = 7 Hz), specifically when lower‐order integration was easiest because signal quality was optimal. This intermodulation peak is a signature of nonlinear audiovisual integration, and was strongest in left inferior frontal gyrus and left temporal regions; areas known to be involved in speech‐gesture integration. The enhanced power at the intermodulation frequency thus reflects the ease of lower‐order audiovisual integration and demonstrates that speech‐gesture information interacts in higher‐order language areas. Furthermore, we provide a proof‐of‐principle of the use of RIFT to study the integration of audiovisual stimuli, in relation to, for instance, semantic context.
Enhanced‐contrast two‐photon optogenetic pH sensing and pH‐resolved brain imaging
Authors: Chebotarev Artem S. , Pochechuev Matvei S. , Lanin Aleksandr A. , Kelmanson Ilya V. , Kotova Daria A. , Fetisova Elena S. , Panova Anastasiya S. , Bilan Dmitry S. , Fedotov Andrei B. , Belousov Vsevolod V. , Zheltikov Aleksei M.
Published: November 2020

We present experiments on cell cultures and brain slices that demonstrate two‐photon optogenetic pH sensing and pH‐resolved brain imaging using a laser driver whose spectrum is carefully tailored to provide the maximum contrast of a ratiometric two‐photon fluorescence readout from a high‐brightness genetically encoded yellow‐fluorescent‐protein‐based sensor, SypHer3s. Two spectrally isolated components of this laser field are set to induce two‐photon‐excited fluorescence (2PEF) by driving SypHer3s through one of two excitation pathways—via either the protonated or deprotonated states of its chromophore. With the spectrum of the laser field accurately adjusted for a maximum contrast of these two 2PEF signals, the ratio of their intensities is shown to provide a remarkably broad dynamic range for pH measurements, enabling high‐contrast optogenetic deep‐brain pH sensing and pH‐resolved 2PEF imaging within a vast class of biological systems, ranging from cell cultures to the living brain.
Psychometric properties of the Alliance and Negotiation Scale‐Supervision Version
Authors: Presseau Candice , Doran Jennifer M. , Marks Laura Reid , Luu Linh P.
Published: November 2020

Objective

This study examines the psychometric properties of the Alliance Negotiation Scale‐Supervision Version (ANS‐S) for clinical trainees. Analyses were designed to evaluate the relationship between the ANS‐S and other measures of supervision process and outcome.

Method

Online surveys included items from established measures in addition to questions about supervisor and supervisee training experiences. The survey was administered to a sample of mental health clinicians practicing under a licensed supervisor (N = 113).

Results

The ANS‐S (a 12‐item unidimensional scale) demonstrated sound psychometric properties, including evidence of reliability as well as content and construct validity.

Conclusions

The ANS‐S was associated with several related supervision measures and outcome variables in the expected directions. These results extend previous findings on the ANS' psychometric integrity and offer a validated measure that can be used in further research on supervision.
Impact of Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetics, Population Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacokinetics/Pharmacodynamics in the Development of Antibody‐Drug Conjugates
Authors: Li Chunze , Chen Shang‐Chiung , Chen Yuan , Girish Sandhya , Kågedal Matts , Lu Dan , Lu Tong , Samineni Divya , Jin Jin Y.
Published: November 2020

Antibody‐drug conjugates are important molecular entities in the treatment of cancer, with 8 antibody‐drug conjugates approved by the US Food and Drug Administration since 2000 and many more in early‐ and late‐stage clinical development. These conjugates combine the target specificity of monoclonal antibodies with the potent anticancer activity of small‐molecule therapeutics. The complex structure of antibody‐drug conjugates poses unique challenges to pharmacokinetic (PK) and pharmacodynamic (PD) characterization because it requires a quantitative understanding of the PK and PD properties of multiple different molecular species (eg, conjugate, total antibody, and unconjugated payload) in different tissues. Quantitative clinical pharmacology using mathematical modeling and simulation provides an excellent approach to overcome these challenges, as it can simultaneously integrate the disposition, PK, and PD of antibody‐drug conjugates and their components in a quantitative manner. In this review, we highlight diverse quantitative clinical pharmacology approaches, ranging from system models (eg, physiologically based pharmacokinetic [PBPK] modeling) to mechanistic and empirical models (eg, population PK/PD modeling for single or multiple analytes, exposure‐response modeling, platform modeling by pooling data across multiple antibody‐drug conjugates). The impact of these PBPK and PK/PD models to provide insights into clinical dosing justification and inform drug development decisions is also highlighted.
Greater dapivirine release from the dapivirine vaginal ring is correlated with lower risk of HIV‐1 acquisition: a secondary analysis from a randomized, placebo‐controlled trial
Authors: Brown Elizabeth R , Hendrix Craig W , van der Straten Ariane , Kiweewa Flavia M , Mgodi Nyaradzo M , Palanee‐Philips Thesla , Marzinke Mark A , Bekker Linda‐Gail , Soto‐Torres Lydia , Hillier Sharon L , Baeten Jared M ,   the MTN‐020/ASPIRE Study Team
Published: November 2020

Introduction

A vaginal ring containing 25 mg of the antiretroviral dapivirine has demonstrated efficacy in reducing women’s risk of sexually acquiring HIV‐1; however, imperfect ring use likely diluted efficacy estimates in clinical trials. The amount of dapivirine remaining in returned rings may reflect the extent of product use, permitting estimation of HIV protection in the context of consistent use.

Methods

We measured the amount of dapivirine in returned rings from a placebo‐controlled trial of the dapivirine vaginal ring conducted between August 2012 and June 2015 among 2629 African women. Phase I/II studies established that greater than 4 mg of dapivirine on average is released from the ring when used consistently over 28 days and ≤0.9 mg released suggested non‐use. We assessed the relative risk reduction associated with levels of ring use using residual dapivirine in returned rings as a time‐dependent covariate for HIV‐1 infection in multivariable Cox models, including multiple exploratory analyses designed to estimate upper limits of efficacy given uncertainty in timing of HIV‐1 acquisition. All models were adjusted for baseline covariates associated with HIV risk and adherence.

Results

Residual dapivirine levels indicating at least some use (>0.9 mg released over a month) were associated with a 48% relative reduction in HIV‐1 acquisition risk (95% confidence interval (CI): 21% to 66%; p = 0.002) compared to the placebo. Exploratory analyses accounting for potential misclassification in timing of HIV‐1 acquisition estimated 75% to 91% HIV‐1 risk reduction with> 4 mg released when compared to placebo. Results limited to the subgroup of women <25 years of age, who tended to have lower adherence, were generally consistent to those overall.

Conclusions

Residual dapivirine levels, an objective measure of adherence, were correlated with HIV‐1 protection in a secondary analysis of a randomized trial. Periods of ring use were associated with approximately 50% protection, with exploratory analyses suggesting higher protection with more consistent use. The dapivirine vaginal ring is the first method to fulfil the promise of a fully reversible, long‐acting, woman‐initiated approach for discreet HIV‐1 prevention.
Analysis of Gender Roles in Philippine Fishing Communities
Authors: Torell Elin , Castro Joan , Lazarte Alfredo , Bilecki Danielle
Published: November 2020

A gender analysis implemented to identify gender norms, resource use patterns and power relationships in fishing communities in the Philippines revealed that the roles of women and men are deeply integrated, but unequal, especially in relation to workload, leadership and decision‐making. Reaching 666 individuals across 26 villages, the analysis found that men access high‐value species whereas nearshore and shallow ecosystems are controlled by both women and men. Strengthening gender roles and forwarding ecosystem‐based fisheries management will require challenging social constructs, growing women's confidence and recognizing the ‘invisible’ work of women in households and the fisheries sector. © 2020 The Authors. Journal of International Development published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd