bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of math anxiety and its remediation through a digital training program in mathematics for first and second graders
Authors: Ng Chan‐Tat , Chen Yin‐Hua , Wu Chao‐Jung , Chang Ting‐Ting
Published: March 2022

Introduction

Math anxiety severely impacts individuals’ learning and future success. However, limited is understood about the profile in East Asian cultures where students genuinely show high‐level math anxiety, despite that they outperform their Western counterparts. Here, we investigate the relation between math anxiety and math achievement in children as young as first and second graders in Taiwan. Further, we evaluate whether intensive exposure to digital game‐based learning in mathematics could ameliorate math anxiety.

Methods

The study first evaluated a group of 159 first and second graders’ math anxiety and its correlation with math performance. Subsequently, a quasi‐experimental design was adopted: 77 of the children continued and participated in multi‐component digital game training targeting enumeration, speeded calculation, and working memory. Post‐assessment was administered afterward for further evaluation of training‐associated effects.

Results

Results confirmed that math anxiety was negatively associated with school math achievement, which assessed numerical knowledge and arithmetic calculation. Furthermore, children's math anxiety was remarkably reduced via digital training in mathematics after 6‐week intensive remediation. Crucially, this math anxiety relief was more prominent in those with high‐level math anxiety. Although the children who underwent the training showed training‐induced math achievement and working memory enhancement, this cognitive improvement appeared to be independent of the math anxiety relief.

Conclusion

Our findings demonstrate that students can show highly negative emotions and perceptions toward learning even in high‐achieving countries. Auspiciously, the feeling of distress toward learning has the feasibility to be relieved from short‐term intensive training. Our study suggests a new approach of early treatments to emotional disturbance that can lead to permanent consequences in individuals.
Performance status (PS) as a predictor of poor response to immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) in recurrent/metastatic head and neck cancer (RMHNSCC) patients
Authors: Chalker Cameron , Voutsinas Jenna M. , Wu Qian Vicky , Santana‐Davila Rafael , Hwang Victoria , Baik Christina S. , Lee Sylvia , Barber Brittany , Futran Neal D. , Houlton Jeffrey J. , Laramore George E. , Liao Jay Justin , Parvathaneni Upendra , Martins Renato G. , Eaton Keith D. , Rodriguez Cristina P.
Published: March 2022

Background

Anti‐PD1 checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) represent an established standard‐of‐care for patients with recurrent/metastatic head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (RMHNSCC). Landmark studies excluded patients with ECOG performance status (PS) ≥2; the benefit of ICI in this population is therefore unknown.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed RMHNSCC patients who received 1+ dose of ICI at our institution between 2013 and 2019. Demographic and clinical data were obtained; the latter included objective response (ORR), toxicity, and any unplanned hospitalization (UH). Associations were explored using uni‐ and multivariate analysis. Overall survival (OS) was estimated using a Cox proportional hazards model; ORR, toxicity, and UH were evaluated with logistic regression.

Results

Of the 152 patients, 29 (19%) had an ECOG PS ≥2. Sixty‐six (44%) experienced toxicity; 54 (36%) had a UH. A multivariate model for OS containing PS, smoking status, and HPV status demonstrated a strong association between ECOG ≥2 and shorter OS (p < 0.001; HR = 3.30, CI = 2.01–5.41). An association between OS and former (vs. never) smoking was also seen (p < 0.001; HR = 2.17, CI = 1.41–3.35); current smoking did not reach statistical significance. On univariate analysis, poor PS was associated with inferior ORR (p = 0.03; OR = 0.25, CI = 0.06–0.77) and increased UH (p = 0.04; OR = 2.43, CI = 1.05—5.71). There was no significant association between toxicity and any patient characteristic.

Conclusions

We observed inferior OS, ORR, and rates of UH among ICI‐treated RMHNSCC patients with ECOG 2/3. Our findings help frame discussion of therapeutic options in this poor‐risk population.
Structure and Mutation of the Native Amine Dehydrogenase MATOUAmDH2
Authors: Bennett Megan , Ducrot Laurine , Vergne‐Vaxelaire Carine , Grogan Gideon
Published: March 2022

Native amine dehydrogenases (nat‐AmDHs) have recently emerged as a potentially valuable new reservoir of enzymes for the sustainable and selective synthesis of chiral amines, catalyzing the NAD(P)H‐dependent ammoniation of carbonyl compounds with high activity and selectivity. MATOUAmDH2, recently identified from the Marine Atlas of Tara Oceans Unigenes (MATOUv1) database of eukaryotic genes, displays exceptional catalytic performance against its best identified substrate, isobutyraldehyde, as well as having broader substrate scope than other nat‐AmDHs. In the interests of providing a platform for the rational engineering of this and other nat‐AmDHs, we have determined the structure of MATOUAmDH2 in complex with NADP+and also with the cofactor and cyclohexylamine. Monomers within the structure are representative of more open and closed conformations of the enzyme and illustrate the profound changes undergone by nat‐AmDHs during the catalytic cycle. An alanine screen of active site residues revealed that M215A and L180A are more active than the wild‐type enzyme for the amination of cyclohexanone with ammonia and methylamine respectively; the latter suggests that AmDHs have the potential to be engineered for the improved production of secondary amines.
Detection of disease‐causing mutations in prostate cancer by NGS sequencing
Authors: Mangolini Alessandra , Rocca Christian , Bassi Cristian , Ippolito Carmelo , Negrini Massimo , Dell'Atti Lucio , Lanza Giovanni , Gafà Roberta , Bianchi Nicoletta , Pinton Paolo , Aguiari Gianluca
Published: March 2022

Gene mutations may affect the fate of many tumors including prostate cancer (PCa); therefore, the research of specific mutations associated with tumor outcomes might help the urologist to identify the best therapy for PCa patients such as surgical resection, adjuvant therapy or active surveillance. Genomic DNA (gDNA) was extracted from 48 paraffin‐embedded PCa samples and normal paired tissues. Next, gDNA was amplified and analyzed by next‐generation sequencing (NGS) using a specific gene panel for PCa. Raw data were refined to exclude false‐positive mutations; thus, variants with coverage and frequency lower than 100× and 5%, respectively were removed. Mutation significance was processed by Genomic Evolutionary Rate Profiling, ClinVar, and Varsome tools. Most of 3000 mutations (80%) were single nucleotide variants and the remaining 20% indels. After raw data elaboration, 312 variants were selected. Most mutated genes were KMT2D (26.45%), FOXA1 (16.13%), ATM (15.81%), ZFHX3 (9.35%), TP53 (8.06%), and APC (5.48%). Hot spot mutations in FOXA1, ATM, ZFHX3, SPOP, and MED12 were also found. Truncating mutations of ATM, lesions lying in hot spot regions of SPOP and FOXA1 as well as mutations of TP53 correlated with poor prognosis. Importantly, we have also found some germline mutations associated with hereditary cancer‐predisposing syndrome. gDNA sequencing of 48 cancer tissues by NGS allowed to detect new tumor variants as well as confirmed lesions in genes linked to prostate cancer. Overall, somatic and germline mutations linked to good/poor prognosis could represent new prognostic tools to improve the management of PCa patients.
International percutaneous coronary intervention complication survey
Authors: Simsek Bahadir , Kostantinis Spyridon , Karacsonyi Judit , Hall Allison , Rangan Bavana V. , Croce Kevin J. , Azzalini Lorenzo , McEntegart Margaret , Shishehbor Mehdi , Egred Mohaned , Mastrodemos Olga C. , Sorajja Paul , Banerjee Subhash , Lombardi William , Sandoval Yader , Brilakis Emmanouil S.
Published: March 2022

Objectives

To investigate the perceptions of interventional cardiologists (IC) regarding the frequency, impact, and management strategies of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) complications.

Background

The perceptions and management strategies of ICs of PCI complications have received limited study.

Methods

Online survey on PCI complications: 46 questions were distributed via email lists and Twitter to ICs.

Results

Of 11,663 contacts, 821 responded (7% response rate): 60% were from the United States and the median age was 46–50 years. Annual PCI case numbers were <100 (26%), 100–199 (37%), 200–299 (21%), and ≥300 (16%); 42% do not perform structural interventions, others reported performing <40 (30%), or >100 (11%) structural cases annually. On a scale of 0–10, participating ICs were highly concerned about potential complications with a median score of 7.2 (interquartile range: 5.0–8.7). The most feared complication was death (39%), followed by coronary perforation (26%) and stroke (9%). Covered stents were never deployed by 21%, and 32% deployed at least one during the past year; 79% have never used fat to seal perforations; 64% have never used coils for perforations. Complications were attributed to higher patient/angiographic complexity by 68% and seen as opportunities for improvement by 70%; 97% of participants were interested in learning more about the management of PCI complications. The most useful learning methods were meetings (66%), webinars (48%), YouTube (32%), and Twitter (29%).

Conclusion

ICs who participated in the survey are highly concerned about complications. Following complication management algorithms and having access to more experienced operators might alleviate stress and optimize patient outcomes.
Silver Cyanide Powder‐Catalyzed Selective Epoxidation of Cyclohexene and Styrene with its Surface Activation by H2O2(aq) and Assisted by CH3CN as a Non‐Innocent Solvent
Authors: Lu Yu‐Jhang , Janmanchi Damodar , Natarajan Thiyagarajan , Lin Zhi‐Han , Wanna Wondemagegn H. , Hsu I‐Jui , Tzou Der‐Lii M. , Ayalew Abay Tigist , Yu Steve S.‐F.
Published: March 2022

We undertake silver cyanide (AgCN) powder for its catalytic epoxidation of cyclohexene or styrene in CH3CN with variable substrate‐to‐solvent volume ratios using H2O2(aq) at 60 °C. The reaction mixtures can facilely separate into organic and aqueous layers. Cyclohexene oxide can be produced in the organic layer with 100 % selectivity from the substrate cyclohexene, while styrene oxide was identified with 80 % selectivity against benzaldehyde in styrene oxidation. After reactions, we can recycle the AgCN particles with comparable bulk property clarified via XRD, XPS, XAS, FT‐IR, and 13C‐SS NMR spectroscopy. Using H218O2 as the oxidant, both epoxide products and acetamide are highly enriched with 18O‐atom, indicating that the π bond‐activation is essential for forming the cyclohexene/styrene oxides in the organic and acetamide in the aqueous layers. The oxidation of cyclohexene/styrene catalyzed by AgCN powder through surface activation by H2O2(aq) and assisted by the non‐innocent CH3CN‐originated acetamide can achieve highly selective π‐bond activation with high reactivity.
pH‐Triggered Removal of Nitrogenous Organic Micropollutants from Water by Using Metal‐Organic Polyhedra
Authors: Hernández‐López Laura , Cortés‐Martínez Alba , Parella Teodor , Carné‐Sánchez Arnau , Maspoch Daniel
Published: March 2022

Water pollution threatens human and environmental health worldwide. Thus, there is a pressing need for new approaches to water purification. Herein, we report a novel supramolecular strategy based on the use of a metal‐organic polyhedron (MOP) as a capture agent to remove nitrogenous organic micropollutants from water, even at very low concentrations (ppm), based exclusively on coordination chemistry at the external surface of the MOP. Specifically, we exploit the exohedral coordination positions of RhII‐MOP to coordinatively sequester pollutants bearing N‐donor atoms in aqueous solution, and then harness their exposed surface carboxyl groups to control their aqueous solubility through acid/base reactions. We validated this approach for removal of benzotriazole, benzothiazole, isoquinoline, and 1‐napthylamine from water.
Influence of Si Doping on Dislocations and Mechanical Properties of GaAs Crystals Grown by Modified Vertical Bridgman Method
Authors: Zhang Hongli , Jin Min , Shen Hui , Xu Jiayue
Published: March 2022

GaAs crystals are important III–V compound semiconductor materials and the bandgap and quantum efficiency can be optimized by doping. However, the doping may bring some problems to the crystal growth. In this paper, Si‐doped GaAs crystals are grown by the modified vertical Bridgman method and the influence of Si doping on dislocations and mechanical properties are discussed. It is found that a proper amount of Si doping significantly reduces the dislocation density of GaAs crystals. The mechanical properties of (100), (110), (111), and (511) planes are measured, and the results show that the mechanical properties of Si‐doped GaAs crystals have obvious anisotropy. The (111) plane has the strongest mechanical properties among them. The Vickers hardness, fracture toughness, nanoindentation hardness, and elastic modulus of the (111) plane are 6.05 GPa, 0.69 MPa m1/2, 10.82 GPa, 138.7 GPa, respectively. Moreover, Si doping can improve the mechanical properties of GaAs crystals.
One‐Step Fabrication of CdS/Ag2S Heterojunction Composites and Its Enhanced Visible‐Light Photocatalytic Degradation Performance
Authors: Wang Shuang , Yu Minghui , Yu Hao , Cheng Yuye , Dou Minghao , Gong Xiaoyu , Li Zhiqiang , Shao Hongyu , Chen Guangyu , Li Shenjie , Chen Yanyan
Published: March 2022

The design and construction of Ag2S heterostructures capable of significantly separating photocarriers is a significant challenge in photocatalysis. In this study, CdS/Ag2S heterojunction composite photocatalyst is fabricated through a simple one‐step hydrothermal method. The composite structure is characterized by X‐ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and UV‐visible diffuse reflection spectroscopy. Under visible light irradiation, the photocatalytic activity of the sample is evaluated by degradation of methyl orange. The photoelectric chemical performance of the CdS nanoparticles modified by Ag2S is closely related to the ratio of Cd/Ag cation. The experimental results show that the sample ACS‐2 (CdS‐Ag2S = 1:1) composite has higher charge transfer/separation efficiency and longer carrier life. The degradation efficiency reaches 74.4% within 30 min, and the degradation rate constant is 0.047 min−1. After four cycles, the degradation efficiency of the catalyst only decreases slightly, indicating that the CdS/Ag2S catalyst has good stability and repeatability. Meanwhile, the study of the photocatalytic mechanism shows that •O1− is the primary active substance in the catalytic process, and h+ and •OH play a secondary role. This work provides a great significance for constructing efficient Ag2S‐based heterojunction photocatalyst systems.
Health‐related quality of life in patients with chronic orofacial pain compared with other chronic pain patients
Authors: Tanner Johanna , Teerijoki‐Oksa Tuija , Kautiainen Hannu , Vartiainen Pekka , Kalso Eija , Forssell Heli
Published: March 2022

Background

Health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) of orofacial pain patients is lower than that of the general population and impaired in multiple dimensions. The aim of the present study was to investigate HRQoL of orofacial pain patients in comparison with patients suffering from other chronic pain disorders.

Materials and Methods

One hundred and fifty‐one tertiary care facial pain patients (mean age, 50 years; standard deviation [SD], 15; 119 females), were compared with 312 other non‐cancer chronic pain patients (mean age, 46 years; SD, 13; 204 women), recruited from three multidisciplinary pain clinics in Finland. The groups were compared using the 15D, and pain‐related measures such as pain interference, pain acceptance, anxiety, depression, and sleep. Statistical comparisons between groups were done using t test, χ2 test, or analysis of covariance. Multivariate linear regression analysis was used to study whether pain‐related aspects influencing HRQoL are similar between the patient groups.

Results

The 15D score was significantly higher in facial pain patients (0.823; SD, 0.114) indicating better HRQoL in comparison with other chronic pain patients (0.732; SD, 0.107) (p < .001). The 15D profiles of studied populations resembled each other but orofacial pain patients showed significantly higher scores for most individual 15D dimensions. Dimensions regarding discomfort and symptoms and sleep were most affected in both groups. Orofacial pain patients showed less psychosocial disability and better acceptance of their pain. Pain acceptance was a weaker explanatory factor of HRQoL in orofacial pain patients.

Conclusion

Compared to other non‐cancer chronic pain, chronic pain in the orofacial area causes less impairment in HRQoL. Orofacial pain patients showed less psychosocial disability and better pain acceptance.
Two case reports using a proposed oral risk assessment tool for older people near the end of life
Authors: Tanaka Kumi , Kikutani Takeshi , Tohara Takashi , Sato Shiho , Ichikawa Yoko , Takahashi Noriaki , Tamura Fumiyo
Published: March 2022

Objectives

We developed a prototype technique that expresses the need for intervention and the effectiveness of the treatment when “not being at risk of injury to the oral cavity or to general health” due to the presence of teeth or prostheses is taken as the desired outcome of dental treatment for older people near the end of life. The objective of this study was to use the prototype risk assessment matrix to identify the risk for each patient according to their course and show the effectiveness of treatment.

Material and Methods

We produced a prototype Dental Risk Map (Dental R‐map) based on the risk map method of risk management. Risk is classified into three levels according to the level of tolerability: (A) Risk for which watchful waiting should be included among measures to be considered; (B) risk for which intervention should be considered; or (C) risk requiring urgent intervention.

Results

We report the application of this technique to two men in their 80s. Both were assessed as risk tolerability Level C, requiring immediate intervention. Dental treatment eliminated this risk in one and reduced it to Level B in the other.

Conclusions

We developed the prototype Dental R‐map to identify oral risks and indicate the need for intervention to address these risks and the effectiveness of treatment for older people near the end of life. We used the Dental R‐map for two patients and successfully avoided oral risks that might cause physical injury in both cases until their deaths.
Testing the stakeholder pressure, relative advantage, top management commitment and green human resource management linkage
Authors: Yong Jing Yi , Yusliza Mohd Yusoff , Ramayah Thurasamy , Seles Bruno Michel Roman Pais
Published: March 2022

Scholars have acknowledged the importance of green human resource management (HRM). Green HRM has been considered a vital mechanism for companies to move towards a sustainable organisation. However, the factors that drive green HRM have not been thoroughly investigated. This study investigated how green HRM interacts with the linkages among relative advantage, stakeholder pressure, and top management commitment based on the Stakeholder Theory and Resource‐based view theory. Data were collected from 112 large manufacturing firms using a survey. Partial least squares modelling was used to test the hypotheses in the research. All hypotheses were accepted except for relative advantage concerning green analysis and description of job positions, green recruitment and green rewards. Overall, it offers guidelines for decision makers on how to emphasise these factors in organisations and subsequently create a culture of environmentally friendly organisations particularly from the perspective green HRM.
A new seven‐level ANPC inverter structure with semiconductor device reduction
Authors: Siddique Marif Daula , Husain Mohammed Aslam , Wasiq Mohammad , Babu Thanikanti Sudhakar , Mekhilef Saad
Published: March 2022

An active neutral point clamped‐type multilevel inverter (ANPC‐MLI) with self‐voltage balancing capability is being suggested for this study. A new switched capacitor cell with eight switches is used for seven‐level generation in the proposed topology. The topology proposed has decreased the power element count with the ability to self‐balancing of capacitor voltages and boosting ability. The distinguishing characteristics of the proposed topology are emphasized and compared with other recent 7L‐SCMLI topologies. Experimental testing on a prototype hardware is conducted to validate the feasibility of the proposed topology.
Comorbidities present in hidradenitis suppurativa
Authors: Stokes Madison M. , Holahan Heather M.
Published: March 2022

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is characterized by a chronic, inflammatory cascade that occurs within the apocrine glands and produces inflammatory papules and nodules, abscesses, and scarred, fistulizing sinus tracts. Despite evidence that patients with HS have a two‐fold greater comorbidity burden in comparison to both psoriasis patients and the unaffected, healthy population; the identification of risk factors and the spectrum of co‐existent medical illnesses have not been fully characterized. Recent data has elucidated increased prevalence of several cutaneous, psychologic, gastrointestinal, musculoskeletal, endocrine, conditions in patients with HS. Treatment modalities can be optimized based on shared cytokine profiles and immune dysregulation. Screening guidelines have been recommended based on prevalence, in order to provide better health outcomes for these patients.
Linking genetic diversity and species diversity through plant–soil feedback
Authors: Bolin Lana G. , Lau Jennifer A.
Published: March 2022

Genetic diversity and species diversity are typically studied in isolation despite theory showing they likely influence one another. Here, we used simplified communities of one or two populations of one or two species to test whether linkages between genetic and species diversity can be mediated by interactions between plants and their soil microbiota, or microbe‐mediated plant–soil feedback (PSF). Interspecific PSF promotes the maintenance of species diversity when plants grow better with heterospecific soil microbes than with conspecific microbes. Similarly, intraspecific PSF promotes the maintenance of genetic diversity when plants grow better with heterogenotypic than with congenotypic microbes. In a two‐phase greenhouse experiment, we conditioned the soil microbial community with pairs of plants that were either two individuals of the same species (lower species diversity) or one individual of each of two species (higher species diversity), and with pairs of plants that were either two individuals from the same population (lower genetic diversity) or one individual from each of two populations (higher genetic diversity). We then tested the effects of these microbial communities on plant growth in a second phase. We found that higher genetic diversity reduced the ability of interspecific PSF to promote plant species diversity, and for one of our two study species, higher species diversity reduced the ability of intraspecific PSF to promote plant genetic diversity. If these patterns occur in more diverse communities, then our results suggest that PSF may dampen the negative effects of diversity loss by promoting diversity at other levels of biological organization.
Strong positive relationships between eDNA concentrations and biomass in juvenile and adult pike (Esox lucius) under controlled conditions: Implications for monitoring
Authors: Karlsson Erik , Ogonowski Martin , Sundblad Göran , Sundin Josefin , Svensson Ofir , Nousiainen Ilkka , Vasemägi Anti
Published: March 2022

Reliable abundance information is the foundation for managing aquatic resources. Species with low catchability are, however, often overlooked in monitoring programmes. Thus, governing bodies lack the data necessary to make well‐informed management decisions. Environmental DNA (eDNA) can produce quantitative estimates of fish abundances, but the precision varies greatly depending on the species and system. It is, therefore, necessary to evaluate its performance and investigate how fish biomass and density affects eDNA dynamics on a case‐by‐case basis before eDNA‐based monitoring can be a viable option. Here, we evaluate how biomass and density of an ecologically and socioeconomically important top predator, the Northern pike (Esox lucius), relate to eDNA concentrations in controlled aquarium and mesocosm experiments. We carried out experiments using both juvenile and adult individuals and evaluated eDNA, biomass and density relationships at three different time points using a previously developed TaqMan assay, targeting the cytochrome oxidase I gene. We also evaluated the performance of multiple extraction methods (DNeasy Blood & Tissue kit, DNeasy PowerWater kit, and Chelex 100), and filtering systems (single‐ vs. double‐membrane filters). The results from both pike experiments showed a strong positive linear relationship between eDNA concentration and pike biomass (R2 = 0.74 – 0.87). Levels of eDNA dropped drastically within the initial 24 h of juvenile pike being removed from the aquaria, and low levels were detectable for up to 308 h. Of the extraction methods, Chelex 100 yielded the highest DNA concentration, offering a quick and cost‐effective alternative compared with existing widely used extraction methods. Using double membrane filters of different material showed no increase in DNA yield regardless of the extraction method but it allowed more water to be processed. Although several challenges remain, our results show that eDNA holds promise to become a useful tool for monitoring fish biomass in natural environments.
The Chemistry of Cyclopropanes and New Insights into Organocatalyzed Asymmetric Cyclopropanation
Authors: Sansinenea Estibaliz , Ortiz Aurelio
Published: March 2022

Cyclopropane structure has been the object of interest in multiple investigations due to its prevalence in different natural products. In addition, this structure has a particular reactivity, specifically the 1,1‐cyclopropanedicarboxylate compounds, which act as acceptor‐donor cyclopropanes. Its reactivity could be compared with that of an α,β‐unsaturated carbonyl, which undergoes conjugate addition reaction and depending on the nature of the nucleophile this can lead to a cycloaddition reaction. Therefore, cyclopropane can be transformed into several useful structures in organic synthesis. Different methods have been described to achieve cyclopropanes such as, Simmons‐Smith reaction, decomposition of diazoalkanes and Michael‐Initiated ring closure (MIRC). Due to the absence of metals, this last method has been applied to the asymmetric organocatalytic synthesis of cyclopropanes, where the substrates activation is through the imine‐enamine intermediates formation or by hydrogen bonds. The asymmetric reaction consists of a domino reaction composed of a conjugate addition reaction and a cyclization reaction via intramolecular nucleophilic substitution. In this review, different asymmetric organocatalytic syntheses of the last two decades until 2021 are presented. With the intention to facilitate the reading of the review, an example of each paper was selected with the optimal reaction conditions and with the best organocatalyst producing the best yield and high stereoselectivity.
New Mechanistic Insights into the Ru‐Catalyzed Asymmetric Hydrogenation of β‐Ketoesters
Authors: Püntener Kurt , Bigler Raphael , Stier Kenta , Checinski Marek P.
Published: March 2022

We describe the results of our quantum mechanical investigation of the asymmetric hydrogenation of β‐ketoesters catalyzed by [RuCl2(MeOH)2((R)‐MeOBIPHEP)] (7 a), which is generated in situ from [Ru(OAc)2((R)‐MeOBIPHEP)] (4 a) and HCl in methanol. Interestingly, HCl not only acts as an activator for 4 a as it has a dramatic effect on the reaction itself: While HCl/4 a=2 leads to rather poor results (36 % ee and 13 % conv. after 4 h at at a substrate‐to‐catalyst ratio (S/C)=50’000), HCl/4 a=20 results in high efficiency (>99.9 % conv.) and enantioselectivity (99 % ee favoring the opposite enantiomer) under otherwise identical conditions. The origin for this sweeping change in performance has remained a mystery for two decades. Here, we show for the first time that a highly selective HCl pathway becomes operational under acidic conditions, which outcompetes moderately selective pathways dominating under neutral conditions. Furthermore, we explain the effects of common phosphorus substituents on the activity of the catalyst.
Preparation and Lithium Storage Properties of Hierarchical Hydrangea‐Like MoS2/C Composites
Authors: Wang Xiaxia , Yang Kai , Na Ren , Liu Xu , Shan Zhongqiang , Wang Shirong
Published: March 2022

In this article, hierarchical hydrangea‐like MoS2/C composites are synthesized through a simple one‐pot solvothermal method followed by heat treatment for the first time. The morphology and electrochemical performance of MoS2/C are largely affected by the solvent composition and carbon content during the solvothermal process. The interlayer distance of few‐layer MoS2 is increased by the insertion of carbon layer for the unique hierarchical hydrangea‐like MoS2/C nanostructure. The cycling performance of MoS2/C is greatly improved because it takes advantage of both good conductivity and structural stability. When tested as an anode of a lithium‐ion battery, the results show that the reversible specific capacity of the MoS2/C electrode is 853.1 mAh g−1 after 80 cycles at a current density of 200 mA g−1 with capacity retention of 98.4%. Especially, when tested under 500 mA g−1, the reversible specific capacity can reach to 780.6 mAh g−1 after 200 cycles.
PNPLA3 rs738409 and risk of fibrosis in NAFLD: Exploring mediation pathways through intermediate histological features
Authors: Vilar‐Gomez Eduardo , Pirola Carlos J. , Sookoian Silvia , Wilson Laura A. , Liang Tiebing , Chalasani Naga
Published: March 2022

Background and Aims

It is unclear whether rs738409 (p.I148M) missense variant in patatin‐like phospholipase domain‐containing 3 rs738409 promotes fibrosis development by triggering specific fibrogenic pathways or by creating an unfavorable microenvironment by promoting steatosis, inflammation, and ultimately fibrosis. We tested the hypothesis that intermediate histologic traits, including steatosis, lobular and portal inflammation, and ballooning may determine the effect of rs738409 on liver fibrosis among individuals with biopsy‐proven NAFLD.

Approach and Results

Causal mediation models including multiple mediators in parallel or sequentially were performed to examine the effect of rs738409, by decomposing its total effect on fibrosis severity into direct and indirect effects, mediated by histology traits in 1153 non‐Hispanic White patients. Total effect of rs738409 on fibrosis was β = 0.19 (95% CI: 0.09–0.29). The direct effect of rs738409 on fibrosis after removing mediators’ effects was β = 0.09 (95% CI: 0.01–0.17) and the indirect effect of rs738409 on fibrosis through all mediators' effects were β = 0.010 (95% CI: 0.04–0.15). Among all mediators, the greatest estimated effect size was displayed by portal inflammation (β = 0.09, 95% CI: 0.05–0.12). Among different sequential combinations of histology traits, the path including lobular inflammation followed by ballooning degeneration displayed the most significant indirect effect (β = 0.023, 95% CI: 0.011–0.037). Mediation analysis in a separate group of 404 individuals with biopsy‐proven NAFLD from other races and ethnicity showed similar results.

Conclusions

In NAFLD, nearly half of the total effect of the rs738409 G allele on fibrosis severity could be explained by a direct pathway, suggesting that rs738409 may promote fibrosis development by activating specific fibrogenic pathways. A large proportion of the indirect effect of rs738409 on fibrosis severity is mediated through portal inflammation.
Store leader gender and store sales performance: When and why do women and men underperform?
Authors: Richard Orlando , Triana María del Carmen , Stewart Marcus
Published: March 2022

Finding ways of breaking the gender‐based glass ceiling is an important human resource issue in companies today. Employing a sample of over 200 retail stores, we explore multiple moderating and mediating factors to explain when and why women store leaders perform better, equal to, or worse than men. Results reveal that (a) women are assigned to lead stores that are positioned closer to competitive rivals than men and (b) women receive unfair distributive pay outcomes in that they are generally paid less than their male counterparts. When accounting for these factors, performance (i.e., productivity) differences between stores with men and women leaders diminished. Further, organizational tenure and store‐unit size (i.e., number of employees) were positively associated with sales performance among stores with women leaders. The findings unveil why some store‐units led by women underperform but also offer contingency factors that delineate when women‐led and men‐led stores excel in sales productivity. Implications for recruiting and retaining both women and men in leadership are considered.
Turning point: A new global COVID‐19 wave or a signal of the beginning of the end of the global COVID‐19 pandemic?
Authors: Ding Kaixi , Jiang Wei , Xiong Chunping , Lei Ming
Published: March 2022

A new variant named Omicron (B.1.1.529), first identified in South Africa, has become of considerable interest to the World Health Organization. This variant differs from the other known major variants, as it carries a large number of unusual mutations, particularly in the spinous process protein and receptor binding domains. Some specific mutation sites make it vaccine resistant, highly infectious, and highly pathogenic. The world fears that the Omicron variant could be even more harmful than the previous major variant, given that it has emerged amid fierce competition to trigger a new global pandemic peak as infections in South Africa rise. However, some epidemiological evidence has emerged that the Omicron variant may produce milder patient symptoms. We speculate if the virulence of the Omicron variant will diminish as transmissibility increases, thereby signaling the beginning of the end for the global COVID‐19 pandemic. Based on this view, we make recommendations for COVID‐19 mitigation in the present and future. However, it will take a few weeks to determine the true threat posed by the Omicron variant and we need to be fully prepared for future outbreaks, regardless of their severity.
Life‐threatening anaphylaxis in children with cow's milk allergy during oral immunotherapy and after treatment failure
Authors: Badina Laura , Burlo Francesca , Belluzzi Beatrice , Babich Sara , Berti Irene , Barbi Egidio
Published: March 2022

Background

Oral immunotherapy (OIT) is a promising therapeutic approach for children with persistent IgE‐mediated cow's milk allergy (CMA) but data are still limited.

Objective

To analyze the prevalence of life‐threatening anaphylaxis in children with persistent CMA undergoing OIT and to evaluate potential risk factors.

Methods

This is a retrospective cohort study among children with persistent CMA undergoing OIT over a 20‐year period, following a specific Oral Tolerance Induction protocol. Adverse reactions during the whole period and data on long‐term outcome were registered. Descriptive and nondescriptive statistics were used to describe data.

Results

Three hundred forty‐two children were evaluated. During OIT, 12 children (3.5%) presented severe anaphylactic reactions that needed an adrenaline injection. None required intubation, intensive care unit (ICU) admission, or showed a fatal outcome. Five of them abandoned OIT, five reached unrestricted diet and the others are still undergoing OIT. As far as outcome is concerned, 51.2% reached an unrestricted diet; 13.5% are at the build‐up stage; and 28.0% (97 patients) stopped the OIT. Among these 96 children, 6.3% experienced a severe reaction induced by accidental ingestion of milk with two fatal outcomes.

Conclusions

The risk of life‐threatening reactions was nearly two times lower (3.5% vs. 6.3%) among patients assuming milk during OIT than in those who stopped the protocol. A trend in favor of more severe reactions, requiring ICU admission, or fatal, was shown in patients who stopped OIT.
Financial market integration in sub‐Saharan Africa: How important is contagion?1
Authors: Akunga Robert , Ahmad Ahmad Hassan , Coleman Simeon
Published: March 2022

This paper investigates effects of contagion in sub‐Saharan African stock markets by examining both crisis and non‐crisis contingent theories. Specifically, the paper examines cross‐market linkages through heteroskedasticity bias‐adjusted correlation in asset returns and assesses the impact of regional macroeconomic fundamentals on stock market volatility using GARCH‐MIDAS technique. The crisis contingent results reveal that there is no evidence of contagion in sub‐Saharan African markets from crises in global developed markets (the UK and the US). However, there is evidence of contagion from emerging market crises (China, South Africa, and Kenya). The non‐crisis contingent analysis underscores the significance of regional economic fundamentals, especially inflation and the GDP, on stock market volatility in South Africa, Nigeria, and Kenya.
Prussian‐blue materials: Revealing new opportunities for rechargeable batteries
Authors: Wang Qianchen , Li Jingbo , Jin Haibo , Xin Sen , Gao Hongcai
Published: March 2022

The demand to increase energy density of rechargeable batteries for portable electronic devices and electric vehicles and to reduce the cost for grid‐scale energy storage necessitates the exploration of new chemistries of electrode materials for rechargeable batteries. The open framework‐structure of Prussian‐blue materials has recently been demonstrated as a promising cathode host for a variety of monovalent and multivalent cations with the tunable working voltage and discharge capacities. Recent progress toward the application of Prussian‐blue cathode materials for rechargeable batteries is reviewed, with special emphasis on charge‐storage mechanisms of different insertion species, factors influencing electrochemical performances, and possible approaches to overcome their intrinsic limitations.

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Neferine attenuates doxorubicin‐induced fibrosis and hypertrophy in H9c2 cells
Authors: Lohanathan Bharathi Priya , Rathinasamy Baskaran , Huang Chih‐Yang , Viswanadha Vijaya Padma
Published: March 2022

Doxorubicin (DOX), an anthracycline antineoplastic candidate is used to treat various malignancies. Around 41% of patients undergoing DOX treatment develop acute cardiotoxicity. Preventing DOX‐induced cardiac fibrosis and hypertrophy helps in evading cardiac remodeling leading to cardiomyopathy and heart failure. Neferine, an alkaloid from the lotus has numerous pharmacological activities. The present study was designed to evaluate the protective effect of neferine on DOX‐mediated fibrosis and hypertrophy. DOX‐induced fibrosis involves activation of transforming growth factor‐β1 (TGF‐β1), matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP‐2), and MMP‐9 with concomitant downregulation of tissue inhibitors of MMPs (TIMP)‐1 and TIMP‐2 expressions in H9c2 cardiomyoblasts. Furthermore, DOX treatment also resulted in hypertrophy with the increased cell volume and overexpression of hypertrophy markers calcineurin, brain natriuretic peptide, and atrial natriuretic peptide. Finally, DOX treatment resulted in apoptosis through activation of p53. Pretreatment with neferine markedly activated SIRT1 expression and modulated the expression levels of TGF‐β1 and p53, thereby significantly reducing DOX‐induced fibrosis, hypertrophy, and apoptosis in H9c2 cardiomyoblasts.
Novel heterozygous F7 gene mutation (c. C1286T) associated with congenital factor VII deficiency: A case report and literature review
Authors: Tang Hua , Luan Xingzhao , Li Jiaqi , Jiang Gen , Zhen Haowen , Li Hao , Xiang Wei , Zhou Jie
Published: March 2022

Background

Congenital factor VII (FVII) deficiency is a rare inherited autosomal recessive disorder characterized by prolongation of prothrombin time and low FVII coagulation activity, which may increase the risk of bleeding.

Case presentation

A 66‐year‐old man with acute postoperative intracranial hemorrhage was transferred to our hospital owing to coagulation dysfunction. In coagulation tests, the FVII coagulation activity was less than 2%. Genetic analysis of the gene encoding FVII identified compound heterozygous mutations: c. 681+1 G>T and c. C1286T (p. Ala429Val).

Conclusions

To our knowledge, this is the first report describing the c. C1286T (p. Ala429Val) mutation in the FVII‐encoding gene. We suggest that these mutations resulted in the reduced FVII activity and abnormal clotting in our patient after brain surgery.
The role of climate finance beyond renewables: Behavioural insights
Authors: Greenwood Noelle , Warren Peter
Published: March 2022

The paper contributes towards filling a ‘blind spot’ in the field of climate finance by investigating the role of climate finance for behavioural insights in developing countries. The evidence review synthesises 71 high‐quality studies and focuses on clean fuel adoption and household energy‐saving behaviour in developing countries. The synthesis finds that there is a need for climate finance from developed countries that is more targeted towards interventions and measures that support household decision‐making in developing countries by engaging with stakeholders that understand local attitudes, constraints and knowledge levels governing the perception of health and environmental risks associated with energy‐consuming technologies.
Investigating the binding mechanism of topiramate with bovine serum albumin using spectroscopic and computational methods
Authors: Khan Faez Iqbal , Rehman Md. Tabish , Sameena Fathima , Hussain Tabish , AlAjmi Mohamed F , Lai Dakun , Khan Md. Khurshid Alam
Published: March 2022

Various spectroscopic techniques involving fluorescence spectroscopy, circular dichroism (CD), and computational approaches were used to elucidate the molecular aspects of interaction between the antiepileptic drug topiramate and the multifunctional transport protein bovine serum albumin (BSA) under physiological conditions. Topiramate quenched BSA fluorescence in a static quenching mode, according to the Stern‐Volmer quenching constant (Ksv) data derived from fluorescence spectroscopy for the topiramate‐BSA complex. The binding constant was also used to calculate the binding affinity for the topiramate‐BSA interaction. Fluorescence and circular dichroism experiments demonstrate that the protein's tertiary structure is affected by the microenvironmental alterations generated by topiramate binding to BSA. To establish the exact binding site, interacting residues, and interaction forces involved in the binding of topiramate to BSA, molecular modeling and simulation approaches were used. According to the Molecular Mechanics Poisson‐Boltzmann Surface Area (MMPBSA) calculations, the average binding energy between topiramate and BSA is −421.05 kJ/mol. Topiramate was discovered to have substantial interactions with BSA, changing the structural dynamic and Gibbs free energy landscape patterns.
Differentiation Between Lipomas and Atypical Lipomatous Tumors of the Extremities Using Radiomics
Authors: Tang Yaozhou , Cui Jingjing , Zhu Jingyi , Fan Guoguang
Published: March 2022

Background

The differentiation of soft tissue lipomas from atypical lipoma tumors (ALTs) of the extremities is important because of the distinction of the cytogenetic profiles and the treatment decisions.

Purpose

To investigate a radiomics method to differentiate between lipomas and ALTs of the extremities.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Population

Imaging data of 122 patients including 90 cases of lipomas and 32 cases of ALTs.

Field Strength/Sequence

Axial T1‐weighted imaging and fat suppressed T2‐weighted imaging at 3.0T MRI.

Assessment

Analysis of variance and the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator methods were used for feature selection and the random forest method was used to build three radiomics models based on T1WI, FS T2WI, and their combination (T1&T2WI). Three independent radiologists classified the tumors based on the subjective assessments.

Statistical Tests

The area under the curve (AUC) of the receiver operating characteristic curve, accuracy, F1‐score, specificity, and sensitivity were employed. The differences of the classifiers and discriminating ability of the radiologists and the radiomics model were compared by Delong test. A P value <0.05 was considered significant. Kappa test was used to determine the inter‐reader agreements between the radiologists.

Result

The AUCs were 0.952 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.785–0.998), 0.944 (95% CI: 0.774–0.997), and 0.968 (95% CI: 0.809–1) for T1WI, FS T2WI, and T1&T2WI models in testing sets respectively. Delong test showed there were no significant difference between the different radiomics models (P > 0.05). The AUCs of the radiologists were 0.893 (95% CI: 0.824–0.942), 0.831 (95% CI: 0.752–0.893), and 0.893 (95% CI: 0.824–0.94), respectively. There were significant difference between radiomics model and radiologists' model in the training and entire cohorts (P < 0.05) while there were no significant difference in the testing sets (P > 0.05).

Data Conclusion

Radiomics has the potential to distinguish between lipomas and ALTs of the extremities and their discrimination ability is no weaker than the senor radiologists.

Level of Evidence

3

Technical Efficacy Stage

2
Prospect of pink pigmented facultative methylotrophs in mitigating abiotic stress and climate change
Authors: Bajpai Apekcha , Mahawar Himanshu , Dubey Garima , Atoliya Nagvanti , Parmar Rakesh , Devi Mayanglambam H. , Kollah Bharati , Mohanty Santosh R.
Published: March 2022

Apparently, climate change is observed in form of increased greenhouse gases (CH4, CO2, N2O, CFC), temperature (0.5–1°C), and UV radiations (UV B and UV C). It is affecting every aspect of ecosystem functioning; however, terrestrial crops are the most vulnerable group and crop productivity largely remains a challenge. Due to climate change, seed yield and nutrient depletion are inevitable in future scenarios. To overcome this problem microbial groups that exhibit plant growth promoting attributes and provide protection against environmental stress should be studied. One such group is the pink pigmented facultative methylotrophs (PPFMs) that can induce overall fitness to plants. PPFMs are involved in phosphorous mineralization, siderophore, ACC deaminase, phytohormone production, and assimilation of greenhouse gases. Additionally, these organisms can also resist harmful UV radiations effectively as they possess polyketide synthases that could serve as source of novel bioactives that can protect plant from abiotic stress. The review article comprehensively highlights the multifunctional traits of PPFMs and their role in mitigating climate change with an aim to use this important organism as microbial inoculants for sustainable agriculture under climate‐changing scenarios.