bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microfacies analysis of the Palaeocene Lockhart limestone on the eastern margin of the Upper Indus Basin (Pakistan): Implications for the depositional environment and reservoir characteristics
Authors: Bilal Ahmer , Yang Renchao , Janjuhah Hammad Tariq , Mughal Muhammad Saleem , Li Yang , Kontakiotis George , Lenhardt Nils
Published: January 2023

A detailed sedimentological analysis of the Palaeocene Lockhart Limestone has been conducted to evaluate the depositional environment, diagenetic processes and hydrocarbon potential of the eastern margin of the Upper Indus Basin. From bottom to top, there are three microfacies recorded. The lower microfacies, composed of fine‐grained micrite and some diagenetic dolomite, reflect the low energy and calm palaeo‐current in the shallower section (1–2 m) of the inner shelf close to shore. The middle microfacies contain algae that suggest 5–15 m of water depth, especially along the inner‐middle shelf, but fractured and mixed bioclasts in micrite material indicate calm to moderately active water close to the wave base. Progressing from the lower microfacies to the middle microfacies, a gradual shift from orthochem to allochem components is observed. The top microfacies is dominated by massive benthic microfossils, indicating moderate energy‐water conditions with normal salinity. However, the presence of limestone intraclasts surrounded by microspar, miliolids and nummulites at the top indicates a high‐energy environment with increasing salinity and water depths from 20 to 130 m. These findings show that the Lockhart Limestone was deposited in a shallow shelf environment, spanning the inner‐mid shelf. Diagenetic processes observed include micritisation, cementation, dissolution, replacement, physical and chemical compaction, and fracture filling by calcite cement. The Lockhart Limestone represents a deepening upward sequence deposited below the shelf margin system tract and highstand systems tract in a regressive environment that could reflect good reservoir characteristics, has the potential to serve as an excellent hydrocarbon reservoir rock, and could be a primary target for future hydrocarbon exploration.
Descriptions of a new genus and a new species, Grylloprimevala jilina (Grylloblattidae) from China
Authors: Zhou Lin , Chen Qi , Ke Haoqin , Wang Zizhuo , Peng Jie , Wu Donghui , Liu Ying , Feng Jiang , Ren Bingzhong
Published: January 2023

We erected a new genus (Grylloprimevala Zhou & Ren gen. nov.) and defined a new species (Grylloprimevala jilina Zhou & Ren sp. nov.) from a natural cave in the primeval forest of Jilin Province, China, according to the morphological, behavioral, and molecular evidence. Grylloprimevala gen. nov. is distinguishable from other genera of Grylloblattodea primarily by morphological characters, including the slightly concave posterior margin of the pronotum and no poorly sclerotized zones, six intramarginal and nine intermarginal setae on the cervical sclerite, one tooth on the lacinia, no pulvilli on tarsal segments, and a symmetrical epiproct with a pointed triangular and middle‐depressed median projection on the posterior margin. Based on the morphological features mentioned above, we further identified a new species, G. jilina sp. nov. At the aspect of behavior, G. jilina sp. nov. displays the typical characteristics of troglobites, including degraded visual senses, developed body surface sensors, and predation between individuals. Furthermore, molecular phylogenetic analyses also supported the morphological delimitation of G. jilina sp. nov. due to the separate clade of G. jilina sp. nov. Our results provide materials for the determination and conservation of Grylloblattodea in China.
A multiscale landscape approach for prioritizing river and stream protection and restoration actions
Authors: Riato Luisa , Leibowitz Scott G. , Weber Marc H. , Hill Ryan A.
Published: January 2023

River and stream conservation programs have historically focused on a single spatial scale, for example, a watershed or stream site. Recently, the use of landscape information (e.g., land use and land cover) at multiple spatial scales and over large spatial extents has highlighted the importance of incorporating a landscape perspective into stream protection and restoration activities. Previously, we developed a novel framework that links information about watershed‐, catchment‐, and reach‐scale integrity with stream biological condition using scatterplots and a landscape integrity map. Here we examined an application of this approach for streams in urban and other settings in King County, Washington State, United States, where we related stream macroinvertebrate condition to two indices of landscape integrity, the US Environmental Protection Agency's (USEPA) nationally available Index of Watershed Integrity (IWI) and Index of Catchment Integrity (ICI). We generated a scatterplot of IWI versus ICI for sample sites, where points represented site macroinvertebrate condition from poor to good. The same data were also visualized as a landscape integrity map that displayed catchments of King County according to the level of watershed and catchment integrity (high or low IWI/ICI). Almost three‐quarters of poor‐condition sites were associated with high‐integrity watersheds and catchments (i.e., underperforming sites), which suggested that either one or both national indicators were insufficient for this area, and that sites underperformed because of local‐scale factors. In response, we used a catchment‐scale indicator related to forest condition (PctForestCat) after examining several GIS‐based dispersal indicators from the National Hydrography Dataset and other candidates from the USEPA's StreamCat dataset. We then compared the results of the scatterplots and maps based on the current and original analyses and found that many of the sites previously classified as underperforming now performed as expected, that is, they were poor‐condition sites in poor‐condition catchments. This analysis demonstrates how results based on a national dataset can be improved by developing an alternative that represents regionally important stressors. The methods used to develop an effective landscape indicator based on StreamCat datasets, and the utility of the multiscale approach, could provide important tools for prioritizing, optimizing, and communicating stream conservation actions.
Performance analysis of single‐pass solar air heater thermal collector with adding porous media and finned plate
Authors: Alomar Omar Rafae , Salih Mothana M. Mohamed , Abd Hareth Maher
Published: January 2023

The recent study encompasses a practical inspect on adding porous material above absorber flat plate having fins to improve the effectiveness of solar air heater (SAH) collector along with forced air circulation process. The efficiency of the altered model and conventional SAH system is compared at the same time to display the impacts of adding porous material. The model that used porous material is called Model‐2, whereas the conventional SAH is called Model‐1. The measuring data is collected in January 2021 in Iraq (Mosul city). Outcomes emphasize that the effectiveness of altered model is better than traditional model by 7% for all air mass flow rates values. The highest efficiency is obtained equal 67% for Model‐2 and 60% for Model‐1 for mass flow rate 0.02 kg/s. For all mass flow rate values, a substantially change in temperature is observed in altered system as compared to traditional system, where the exhaust temperature of Model‐2 is higher than Model‐1. The improvement in the effectiveness of Model‐2 demonstrates that the employ of porous material has an extreme action on the heat exchange and subsequently heat transfer rate.
Classifying Alzheimer's disease and frontotemporal dementia using machine learning with cross‐sectional and longitudinal magnetic resonance imaging data
Authors: Pérez‐Millan Agnès , Contador José , Juncà‐Parella Jordi , Bosch Beatriz , Borrell Laia , Tort‐Merino Adrià , Falgàs Neus , Borrego‐Écija Sergi , Bargalló Nuria , Rami Lorena , Balasa Mircea , Lladó Albert , Sánchez‐Valle Raquel , Sala‐Llonch Roser
Published: January 2023

Alzheimer's disease (AD) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD) are common causes of dementia with partly overlapping, symptoms and brain signatures. There is a need to establish an accurate diagnosis and to obtain markers for disease tracking. We combined unsupervised and supervised machine learning to discriminate between AD and FTD using brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). We included baseline 3T‐T1 MRI data from 339 subjects: 99 healthy controls (CTR), 153 AD and 87 FTD patients; and 2‐year follow‐up data from 114 subjects. We obtained subcortical gray matter volumes and cortical thickness measures using FreeSurfer. We used dimensionality reduction to obtain a single feature that was later used in a support vector machine for classification. Discrimination patterns were obtained with the contribution of each region to the single feature. Our algorithm differentiated CTR versus AD and CTR versus FTD at the cross‐sectional level with 83.3% and 82.1% of accuracy. These increased up to 90.0% and 88.0% with longitudinal data. When we studied the classification between AD versus FTD we obtained an accuracy of 63.3% at the cross‐sectional level and 75.0% for longitudinal data. The AD versus FTD versus CTR classification has reached an accuracy of 60.7%, and 71.3% for cross‐sectional and longitudinal data respectively. Disease discrimination brain maps are in concordance with previous results obtained with classical approaches. By using a single feature, we were capable to classify CTR, AD, and FTD with good accuracy, considering the inherent overlap between diseases. Importantly, the algorithm can be used with cross‐sectional and longitudinal data.
Antithrombotic treatment after intracerebral hemorrhage: Surveys among stroke physicians in Scandinavia and the United Kingdom
Authors: Forfang Elisabeth , Larsen Kristin Tveitan , Salman Rustam Al‐Shahi , Bell Simon M. , Wester Per , Berge Eivind , Wyller Torgeir Bruun , Rønning Ole Morten
Published: January 2023

Background and Aims

It is unclear whether patients with previous intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) should receive antithrombotic treatment to prevent ischemic events. We assessed stroke physicians' opinions about this, and their views on randomizing patients in trials assessing this question.

Methods

We conducted three web‐based surveys among stroke physicians in Scandinavia and the United Kingdom.

Results

Eighty‐nine of 205 stroke physicians (43%) responded to the Scandinavian survey, 161 of 180 (89%) to the UK antiplatelet survey, and 153 of 289 (53%) to the UK anticoagulant survey. In Scandinavia, 19 (21%) stroke physicians were uncertain about antiplatelet treatment after ICH for ischemic stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA) and 21 (24%) for prior myocardial infarction. In the United Kingdom, 116 (77%) were uncertain for ischemic stroke or TIA and 115 (717%) for ischemic heart disease. In Scandinavia, 32 (36%) were uncertain about anticoagulant treatment after ICH for atrial fibrillation, and 26 (29%) for recurrent deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism. In the United Kingdom, 145 (95%) were uncertain about anticoagulants after ICH in at least some cases. In both regions combined, 191 of 250 (76%) would consider randomizing ICH survivors in a trial of starting versus avoiding antiplatelets, and 176 of 242 (73%) in a trial of starting versus avoiding anticoagulants.

Conclusion

Considerable proportions of stroke physicians in Scandinavia and the United Kingdom were uncertain about antithrombotic treatment after ICH. A clear majority would consider randomizing patients in trials assessing this question. These findings support the need for such trials.
Image reconstruction based on a modified bird swarm optimization algorithm for electrical impedance tomography
Authors: Yanyan Shi , Yuhang Zhang , Meng Wang , Zhen Gao , Meng Dai , Feng Fu
Published: January 2023

Electrical impedance tomography (EIT) is a potential and promising tomographic technique. It is known that image reconstruction of EIT is mathematically an ill‐posed inverse problem that leads to poor reconstruction quality. To improve the quality of reconstructed images, a novel image reconstruction method based on modified bird swarm optimization algorithm is proposed in this paper. An image of conductivity distribution acquired by Newton's one‐step error reconstruction algorithm performs as initial population. Then a modified bird swarm optimization algorithm is proposed to optimize the initial conductivity distribution. By introducing a dynamic inertia weight parameter, flight interval of the bird swarm varies with the number of iterations. With the proposed method, a strong global search capability in the initial stage and a strong local search capability in the later stage are ensured during the optimization. To verify the effectiveness of the proposed method, simulation work and experimental validation are carried out. Also, reconstructed images are compared with the results obtained by iterative Landweber method and Newton–Raphson method. Meanwhile, the impact of noise on the reconstruction is investigated. The simulation and experimental results have demonstrated the superior performance of the proposed method in visualizing conductivity distribution.
Targeting lamb survival in commercial flocks: inspiring and effecting change
Authors: Gascoigne Emily , Corbishley Alexander , Davies Peers
Published: January 2023

Background: The neonatal period is acknowledged to be the riskiest phase of rearing for the loss of lambs with adaption to the extrautero world, an appropriate environment, successful passive transfer, overcoming the threat of pathogen challenge and a strong maternal‐neonatal interaction essential for success. Unfortunately, despite significant research and focus on this phase, there haven't been significant improvements in lamb survival in recent years.

Aim of the article: This article considers the obstacles to implementing change on sheep farms and reviews the evidence base for recommendations to be used on farm.
Assessment and management of the neonatal foal
Authors: Halliwell Lizzie , Chidlow Hayley
Published: January 2023

Background: Neonatal care can seem daunting to the equine veterinary practitioner, particularly in practices without a high stud medicine caseload, meaning visits to newborn foals are infrequent. Deciding when to refer and when field treatment is likely to be adequate can be difficult. Clinical signs of disease can be subtle and deterioration rapid. Accurate assessment and early recognition of problems are crucial in successful treatment, as is education of owners about when to seek veterinary intervention.

Aim of the article: This article provides practical guidelines on how to accurately assess the newborn foal in the field within the first 24 hours of life, including common early warning signs, and when referral should be advised.
Performing surgery in goats. Part 1: preparation and regional anaesthesia
Authors: Dustan Benjamin
Published: January 2023

Background: The population of goats within the UK continues to rise and, according to latest Defra figures, now totals approximately 111,000 animals. With this comes the increasing likelihood that general practitioners will have something to do with these fascinating and characterful farmed species. The UK goat sector is one of the most diverse within the agricultural setting, being comprised of three main commercial wings: dairy, meat and fibre, and the remainder spread across pedigree and/or show stock, public attraction stock, small holder stock and those kept exclusively as pets. All these different settings have multiple and intertwining crossovers, which means the manner in which our caprine patients are kept, handled, managed and cared for can be equally disparate. The general practitioner must be aware of the circumstances and surroundings in which the animals are kept. Additionally, goats are generally of a gregarious and hierarchical nature, which can lead them into harm's way or mischief, and may necessitate various veterinary interventions.

Aim of the article: This article, the first in a two part series, aims to equip general veterinary practitioners with the necessary knowledge and top tips for performing regional anaesthetic techniques in this species, while also highlighting how to stay on the right side of the law when it comes to available pharmaceuticals.
Improving systems: understanding ‘work as imagined’ versus ‘work as done’
Authors: Rayner Angela
Published: January 2023

Why is understanding work important? Whenever we are trying to improve, it's important to understand the system we are working with to enable people to work to their strengths and empower them to bring about change. This article explores improving systems by understanding how work is done.
Medical gas installation and the role of the authorising engineer
Authors: Brown Scott
Published: January 2023

The aim of this article is to highlight the importance of safe design when installing medical gas equipment in a veterinary practice. Medical gases, such as oxygen, are a key element of modern veterinary settings, and the size and type of installation can vary widely. This article outlines design elements, important operational considerations and the role of the authorising engineer in providing advice and knowledge regarding the use of medical gases.
Telomere integrated scoring system of myelodysplastic syndrome
Authors: Park Hee Sue , Im Kyongok , Shin Dong‐Yeop , Yoon Sung‐Soo , Kwon Sunghoon , Kim Suhng Wook , Lee Dong Soon
Published: January 2023

Introduction

Recently, multigene target sequencing is widely performed for the purpose of prognostic prediction and application of targeted therapy. Here, we proposed a new scoring system that encompasses gene variations, telomere length, and Revised International Prognostic Scoring System (IPSS‐R) together in Asian myelodysplastic syndrome.

Methods

We developed a new scoring model of these variables: age ≥ 65 years + IPSS‐R score + ASXL1 mutation + TP53 mutation + Telomere length (<5.37). According to this new scoring system, patients were divided into four groups: very good score cutoff (≤3.0), good (3.0–4.5), poor (4.5–7.0), and very poor (>7.0).

Results

The median OS was 170.1, 100.4, 46.0, and 12.0 months for very good, good, poor, and very poor, retrospectively (p < 0.001). Meanwhile, according to the conventional IPSS‐R scoring system, the median OS was 141.3, 50.2, 93.0, 36.0, and 16.2 months for very low, low, intermediate, high, and very high, retrospectively (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

The newly developed model incorporating molecular variations and TL yielded more clear separations of the survival curves. By adding the presence of gene mutation and telomere length to the existing IPSS‐R, its predictive ability can be further improved in myelodysplastic syndrome.
A national survey of dental hygiene faculty perspectives on diversity, equity, and inclusion
Authors: Cahoon Marija L. , Westphal Theile Cheryl M. , Allegrante John P.
Published: January 2023

Purpose/objectives

To investigate potential unconscious bias among dental hygiene educators and identify baseline perceptions of race and racism.

Methods

Dental hygiene programs in the USA were clustered into 4 geographic regions from which 2 programs were sampled from each region. The 20‐item, Color‐Blind Racial Attitudes Scale (CoBRAS) electronic survey was sent to educators from each of the selected programs in 2022. The CoBRAS instrument measures contemporary racism and stereotyping in 3 subcategories: Unawareness of Racial Privilege, Institutional Discrimination, and Blatant Racial Issues. Scores range from 20‐120, with higher scores indicating elevated levels of denial of racism. Descriptive statistics and one‐way ANOVA were performed. The level of significance was set to α = 0.05.

Results

Of the 172 potential respondents, 89 (52%) completed all of the survey questions. The majority of the respondents were White, female and from the Northeast (74.2%, 93.3%, and 61.8% respectively). The mean CoBRAS score (55.73) indicated moderate levels of color‐blind racial attitudes. Race was a significant variable in perceptions of racial dynamics and racism with statistically significant differences between groups by race and ethnicity as demonstrated by one‐way ANOVA (F[6,82] = 3.469, p = 0.004).

Conclusions

Moderate levels of color‐blind racial attitudes among dental hygiene educators were found, indicating a presence of cognitive aspects of stereotyping related to race. The demographic data collected adds to the existing evidence of a lack of diversity among dental hygiene faculty.
Rapport‐building: Chat versus in‐person witness interviews
Authors: Hoogesteyn Katherine , Verigin Brianna L. , Finnick Danielle , Meijer Ewout H.
Published: January 2023

Tactics recommended for rapport‐building consist of verbal (e.g., finding common ground or shared experiences) and non‐verbal (e.g., affirmations, displaying empathy) behaviours. Most of the research on rapport, however, has examined it in in‐person contexts, where both verbal and non‐verbal behaviours are present. In this study, we were interested in the effectiveness of rapport‐building when conducting online witness interviews via chat, which de‐emphasises the use non‐verbal rapport behaviours, compared to traditional in‐person interviews. Participants (N = 131) experienced a virtual reality (VR) scenario depicting a mock crime and were interviewed either in person or online via the chat function in Skype. Participants perceived rapport more positively when interviewed in person for three measures: attentiveness, trust and respect and expertise. Two other measures, cultural similarity and connected flow, were not perceived differently across interview medium. Participants interviewed online via chat disclosed similar amounts of crime‐related information and were just as accurate as participants interviewed in person. We found that in‐person interviews yielded better rapport ratings than interviews via chat but were equally productive in terms of the quality of information obtained, as measured by crime‐related details and accuracy. If witnesses are to be interviewed via chat, investigators must carefully consider how to compensate for the lack of those non‐verbal rapport tactics that influence witnesses' perceptions of attentiveness, trust/respect and investigator's expertise.
Digital radiography reject analysis: A comparison between two radiology departments in New Zealand
Authors: Bantas Gabriela , Sweeney Rhonda‐Joy , Mdletshe Sibusiso
Published: January 2023

Introduction

Image reject analysis (RA) in direct digital radiography (DDR) is an important quality indicator tool. Analysis of rejected images is a component of quality assurance (QA) programmes, with the overall aim of reducing patient radiation dose. This study aimed to compare differences in image rejection rates (RR) and the reasons for rejection between two radiology departments.

Methods

A retrospective quantitative descriptive study of images performed across the two radiology departments (RAD 1 and RAD 2) acquired with DDR systems between the beginning of February and the end of May 2021 was undertaken. Collected data included the medical imaging technologist (MIT) selection of image rejection reasons for different anatomic regions and compared between the two radiology departments.

Results

A total of 47,046 images and 29,279 images were acquired at RAD 1 and RAD 2, respectively, with an overall image rejection rate of 7.86% at RAD 1 and 5.91% at RAD 2. The primary reason for image rejections was positioning errors, 79.4% and 77.3% recorded at RAD 1 and RAD 2, respectively. Significant differences were demonstrated between the two radiology departments for image rejection rates and selected reasons for rejection for most anatomical body groups.

Conclusion

The implementation of image RA remains a key part of QA in radiology departments utilising DDR systems. This study recommends interventions based on image RRs for examinations taking into consideration the department‐specific variations and imaging protocols used.
Evaluation of corn steep liquor as fermentation media for recombinant Lactococcus lactis producing antifreeze proteins
Authors: Byanju Bibek , Sen Swastik , Mansell Thomas , Lamsal Buddhi P.
Published: January 2023

BACKGROUND

Corn processing byproducts corn steep liquor (CSL), and thin stillage were evaluated as growth media for recombinant Lactococcus lactis modified to produce antifreeze proteins (AFPs) that could have important food and non‐food applications. The AFP III sequence from ocean pout was cloned into a shuttle vector to make an expression vector that facilitated the production of recombinant AFP III in Lactococcus lactis. Light CSL from yellow dent corn and thin stillage from the industrial corn bioethanol process were optimized as fermentation media with a combination of the following additives and trace elements: disodium‐β‐glycerophosphate (DG), tryptone (T), ascorbic acid (AA), iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), and magnesium (Mg). The growth of wild‐type and recombinant Lactococcus lactis strains were compared over a 72 h period in 96‐well plates and 250 mL shake flasks.

RESULTS

The corn coproducts media consisting of 50% (v/v) light steep in water supplemented with DG‐5 g L−1, T‐5 g L−1, AA‐0.5 g L−1, and Zn‐4 ppm resulted in best growth and was considered as the best‐optimized media. The addition of additives and trace elements better supported the growth of both wild‐type and recombinant Lactococcus lactis strains compared to control media without any additives. Respective fermentation supernatants were frozen to −20 °C, and the time to supercool and freeze was compared. A distinct supercooling effect was observed for the supernatants from recombinant strains thus, extending the time and temperature of supercooling and freezing. The maximum time of supercooling extended was 17.55 ± 4.45 min for thin stillage followed by M17 media (17.25 ± 4.45 min), Kent Corporation CSL (10.80 ± 2.12 min), and yellow dent CSL (6.9 ± 0.85 min) when fermented with recombinant Lactococcus lactis strains.

CONCLUSION

The supplemented corn coproduct‐based media enhanced the growth of both wild‐type and recombinant Lactococcus lactis strains. These optimized media can replace or supplement more expensive media (e.g. M17), potentially reducing cost. The fermentation supernatants exhibited longer times to supercool, and freeze compared to control supernatants, indicating potential use as antifreeze compounds in frozen food and non‐food applications. © 2023 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Purification and characterization of the dipeptidyl peptidase‐IV inhibitory peptides from eel (Anguilla rostrata) scraps enzymatic hydrolysate for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Cao Hongzhen , Di Nana , Jiang Bo , Chen Jingjing , Zhang Tao
Published: January 2023

BACKGROUND

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a serious threat to human health. Owing to the action of dipeptidyl peptidase‐IV (DPP‐IV), the half‐life of entero‐insulin hormone after secretion is extremely short, causing insufficient insulin secretion in diabetic patients. Dipeptidyl peptidase‐IV inhibitors can be used as a new treatment for T2DM. In this study, the proteins of eel (Anguilla rostrata) scraps hydrolyzed using Protamex protease (EPHs) were found to have strong DPP‐IV inhibitory activity. The study also provided research ideas for the development and utilization of A. rostrata scraps.

RESULTS

The median inhibition concentration (IC50) value of EPHs was 5.455 ± 0.24 mg mL−1. The peptide fractions with the highest DPP‐IV inhibitory activity were sequentially separated by ultrafiltration, gel filtration chromatography (GFC), and reversed‐phase high performance liquid chromatography (RP‐HPLC) in a continuous hierarchical manner and analyzed using matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight/ time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry/mass spectrometry (MALDI‐TOF/TOF MS/MS). Three peptides that revealed significant inhibitory activity were screened among the identified sequences, with sequences of Phe‐Pro‐Arg (IC50 = 62.14 ± 1.47 μM), Tyr‐Pro‐Pro‐Ser‐Phe‐Ser (IC50 = 102.65 ± 4.57 μM), and Tyr‐Pro‐Tyr‐Pro‐Ala‐Ser (IC50 = 68.30 ± 3.85 μM). Molecular docking simulations revealed that their inhibitory effect was mainly due to the formation of hydrogen bonds with amino acid residues in the active sites of DPP‐IV. Analysis of the inhibition patterns of the synthetic peptides displayed that Phe‐Pro‐Arg and Tyr‐Pro‐Pro‐Ser‐Phe‐Ser displayed competitive inhibition, whereas Tyr‐Pro‐Tyr‐Pro‐Ala‐Ser showed mixed competitive/non‐competitive inhibition.

CONCLUSIONS

The protein hydrolysates isolated from eel scraps are potential functional food ingredients for the treatment of T2DM. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Rapid automatic nucleic acid purification system based on gas–liquid immiscible phase
Authors: Fan Yunlong , Dai Rongji , Guan Xuejun , Lu Shuyu , Yang Chunhua , Lv Xuefei , Li Xiaoqiong
Published: January 2023

The continuous expansion of nucleic acid detection applications has resulted in constant developments in rapid, low‐consumption, and highly automated nucleic acid extraction methods. Nucleic acid extraction using magnetic beads across an immiscible phase interface offers significant simplification and parallelization potential. The gas–liquid immiscible phase valve eliminates the requirement for complicated cassettes and is suitable for automation applications. By analyzing the process of magnetic beads crossing the gas‐liquid interface, we utilized a low magnetic field strength to drive large magnetic bead packages to cross the gas‐liquid interface, providing a solution of high magnetic bead recovery rate for solid‐phase extraction with a low‐surfactant system based on gas‐liquid immiscible phase valve. The recovery rate of magnetic beads was further improved to 90%–95% and the carryover of the reagents was below 1%. Consequently, a chip and an automatic system were developed to verify the applicability of this method for nucleic acid extraction. The Hepatitis B virus serum standard was used for the extraction test. The extraction of four samples was performed within 7 minutes, with nucleic acid recovery maintained above 80% and good purity. Thus, through analysis and experiments, a fast, highly automated, and low‐consumption nucleic acid recovery method was proposed in this study.
A review of cognitive and behavioral outcomes of Brivaracetam
Authors: Li Kuan‐Ying , Hsu Chung‐Yao , Yang Yuan‐Han
Published: January 2023

Anti‐seizure medications (ASMs) can cause cognitive or behavioral adverse drug reactions, which is an important consideration when selecting an appropriate ASM. Brivaracetam (BRV) is a newer synaptic vesicle protein 2A ligand, which is expected to result in fewer neuropsychiatric adverse effects due to its mechanism of action. To understand the impact of BRV on cognition and behavior compared with other ASMs, we conducted a review of the literature using the Cochrane Library, PubMed/MEDLINE, and Embase. After the screening process, a total of two animal studies, one randomized controlled trial, one pooled analysis of clinical trials, one controlled study, and nine observational studies were included. The animal studies showed that BRV did not worsen cognitive or behavioral performance in rodents. The human studies showed that BRV was associated with fewer cognitive adverse events compared with other second‐ or third‐generation ASMs. In addition, BRV was less associated with behavioral disturbance than levetiracetam. In summary, this review revealed that BRV has a limited impact on cognition and behavior. For patients who are intolerant to levetiracetam and have levetiracetam‐related behavioral side effects, switching to BRV could be beneficial. However, heterogeneity between studies resulted in low‐quality of evidence, and further trials are needed to confirm the findings.
The effects of comorbidities on the change of taste and smell in COVID‐19 patients
Authors: Chen Jingguo , Mi Baibing , Yan Miaojia , Wang Yutong , Zhu Kang , Yu Chao , Zhang Yanni , Koyama Sachiko , Ren Xiaoyong
Published: January 2023

Background

Sudden chemosensory changes were considered an early predictor of COVID‐19. Here, the effects of comorbidities on changes in taste and smell in COVID‐19 patients were investigated based on a worldwide study.

Methods

Data analyzed here were collected from the Global Consortium for Chemosensory Research (GCCR) core questionnaire, including questions regarding preexisting disease conditions. Overall, the final sample of 12,438 participants who were diagnosed with COVID‐19 included patients with preexisting conditions. Mixed linear regression models were used to test our hypothesis, and the p‐value of interaction was examined.

Results

A total of 61,067 participants completed the GCCR questionnaire, including 16,016 participants had preexisting diseases. The multivariate regression analysis showed that individuals with high blood pressure, lung disease, or sinus problems, or neurological diseases exhibited worse self‐reported smell loss (p < .05), but no apparent significant differences in the smell or taste recovery. COVID‐19 patients with seasonal allergy/hay fever lost their olfactory ability more than patients who did not have it (with 11.90 [9.67, 14.13] vs. without 6.97 [6.04, 7.91], p < .0001). The taste ability, smell loss and taste loss after COVID‐19 recovery also decreased in the COVID‐19 patients with seasonal allergy/hay fever (p < .001). Preexisting condition of diabetes did not worsen to chemosensory disorder but also had no obvious impact on the chemosensory recovery after acute infection. Preexisting diseases also affected the type of smell change in the COVID‐19 patients with seasonal allergy/hay fever or sinus problems (p < .05).

Conclusions

COVID‐19 patients with high blood pressure, lung disease, or sinus problems, or neurological diseases exhibited worse self‐reported smell loss, but no differences in the smell or taste recovery. COVID‐19 patients with seasonal allergy/hay fever had greater loss of smell and taste, poorer smell and taste recovery.

Level of Evidence

4
Scalable Production of Monodisperse Bioactive Spider Silk Nanowires
Authors: Gustafsson Linnea , Kvick Mathias , Åstrand Carolina , Ponsteen Nienke , Dorka Nicolai , Hegrová Veronika , Svanberg Sara , Horák Josef , Jansson Ronnie , Hedhammar My , van der Wijngaart Wouter
Published: January 2023

Elongated protein‐based micro‐ and nanostructures are of great interest for a wide range of biomedical applications, where they can serve as a backbone for surface functionalization and as vehicles for drug delivery. Current production methods for protein constructs lack precise control of either shape and dimensions or render structures fixed to substrates. This work demonstrates production of recombinant spider silk nanowires suspended in solution, starting with liquid bridge induced assembly (LBIA) on a substrate, followed by release using ultrasonication, and concentration by centrifugation. The significance of this method lies in that it provides i) reproducability (standard deviation of length <13% and of diameter <38%), ii) scalability of fabrication, iii) compatibility with autoclavation with retained shape and function, iv) retention of bioactivity, and v) easy functionalization both pre‐ and post‐formation. This work demonstrates how altering the function and nanotopography of a surface by nanowire coating supports the attachment and growth of human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs). Cell compatibility is further studied through integration of nanowires during aggregate formation of hMSCs and the breast cancer cell line MCF7. The herein‐presented industrial‐compatible process enables silk nanowires for use as functionalizing agents in a variety of cell culture applications and medical research.
Effects of Water/Alcohol Soluble Cationic Polythiophenes as Cathode Interlayers for Eco‐Friendly Solar Cells
Authors: Quadretti Debora , Marinelli Martina , Salatelli Elisabetta , Pierini Filippo , Zanelli Alberto , Lanzi Massimiliano
Published: January 2023

Three new ionic polythiophene derivatives, soluble in polar solvents, are synthesized with good yields using simple, low‐cost, and straightforward procedures. They are investigated as interfacial cationic conjugated polyelectrolyte (CPE) layers for halogen‐free bulk heterojunction polymeric solar cells, based on a water‐soluble electron‐donor polymer (poly[3‐(6‐diethanolaminohexyl)thiophene]) and a water‐soluble electron‐acceptor fullerene derivative (malonodiserinolamide fullerene). The simple insertion of the CPE interlayer between the active layer and the aluminum cathode dramatically increases the power conversion efficiency of the final device up to nearly 5%, resulting from a decrease of the electrode work function, improved electron extraction, and optimization of the morphology of the layers. The obtained results demonstrate that the incorporation of CPE layer is a powerful and convenient methodology for the development of highly efficient and eco‐friendly processable polymeric solar cells.
A Quantitative Study on Branching Density Dependent Behavior of Polylactide Melt Strength
Authors: Fang Fengna , Niu Deyu , Xu Pengwu , Liu Tianxi , Yang Weijun , Wang Zhenyu , Li Xiaona , Ma Piming
Published: January 2023

Polymer melt strength (MS) is strongly correlated with its molecular structure, while their relationship is not very clear yet. In this work, designable long‐chain branched polylactide (LCB‐PLA) is prepared in situ by using a tailor‐made (methyl methacrylate)‐co‐(glycidyl methacrylate) copolymer (MG) with accurate number of reactive sites. A new concept of branching density (φ) in the LCB‐PLA system is defined to quantitively study their relationship. Importantly, a critical point of φc = 5.5 mol/104 mol C is revealed for the first time, below which the zero‐shear viscosity (η0) corresponding to MS increases slowly with a slope of Δη0/Δφ = 1400, while it increases sharply above this critical point due to entanglement of neighboring LCB‐PLA chains. Consequently, the MS of PLA increased by >100 times by optimizing the LCB structures while maintaining processibility. Therefore, this work provides a deeper understanding and feasible route in quantitative design of polymers with high(er) melt strength for some specialty applications.
Biobased Transesterification Vitrimers
Authors: Kumar Ashwani , Connal Luke A.
Published: January 2023

The rapid increase in the use of plastics and the related sustainability issues, including the depletion of global petroleum reserves, have rightly sparked interest in the use of biobased polymer feedstocks. Thermosets cannot be remolded, processed, or recycled, and hence cannot be reused because of their permanent molecular architecture. Vitrimers have emerged as a novel polymer family capable of bridging the difference between thermoplastic and thermosets. Vitrimers enable unique recycling strategies, however, it is still important to understand where the raw material feedstocks originate from. Transesterification vitrimers derived from renewable resources are a massive opportunity, however, limited research has been conducted in this specific family of vitrimers. This review article provides a comprehensive overview of transesterification vitrimers produced from biobased monomers. The focus is on the biomass structural suitability with dynamic covalent chemistry, as well as the viability of the synthetic methods.
Why was 2022 so successful? Bipartisanship
Authors: Ingoglia Chuck
Published: January 2023

In 2022, our nation appropriated long‐overdue federal support for substance use and mental health programs. It's important to understand why that happened.
Sheppard Pratt moves to free continuing education curriculum
Authors: Enos Gary
Published: January 2023

Nationally renowned psychiatric hospital and community‐based behavioral health provider Sheppard Pratt has embarked on a major investment to begin offering all of its continuing education resources free of charge. The Baltimore‐based organization currently has more than 4,600 provider customers holding an account in its Center for Professional Education.
A dose calculation algorithm for radiosurgery treatment room shielding optimization
Authors: Nygren Nelly , Nordström Håkan , da Silva Joakim
Published: January 2023

Background

Methods described in the literature for designing shielding for treatment rooms for radiotherapy systems often involve assumptions that lead to overestimations of the wall thicknesses required to meet dose rate constraints outside the room. The Leksell Gamma Knife (LGK) has built‐in shielding that results in primarily scattered photons leaking into the room. The field of leakage radiation, therefore, has a wide spectrum of energies, up to the primary energies of cobalt‐60, and is highly anisotropic, making standard site planning methods difficult to adapt to the LGK. Monte Carlo (MC) simulations are an alternative for dose calculations but are computationally expensive.

Purpose

The aim was to develop a dose calculation algorithm for fast estimations of dose rates outside the barriers of a treatment room. The algorithm could then be employed in iterative methods to optimize treatment room parameters such as wall thicknesses and position of the LKG unit.

Methods

The algorithm uses pre‐calculated MC simulation data in two steps. First, it uses phase spaces that describe single photons in the radiation field around the LGK. Using each photon's position and direction, they are raytraced to the outside of the room. Based on their energy, angle of incidence to the barrier, and the barrier's thickness, a depth‐dose profile is sampled from a pre‐calculated library of profiles. The contribution from each photon is added to the space outside the barriers, giving the total dose distribution. The barrier thicknesses are optimized by iteratively running the algorithm and finding the minimum thickness required to keep the resulting maximum dose rate outside below a given upper limit.

Results

Comparisons between dose distributions from the dose algorithm and full MC simulations of two typical rooms show good agreement, with the maximum dose rate outside each barrier being estimated within what represents a 2 cm error in concrete barrier thickness. The algorithm is successfully used in optimizing the barrier thicknesses and the results show potential decreases in most barriers' thickness, compared to a conventional method.

Conclusions

The algorithm is a promising alternative to conventional barrier design methods, eliminating several shortcomings of the latter whilst being significantly faster than a full MC simulation. The flexibility of the algorithm would further enable solving more complex cases, such as optimizing the LGK position or barrier material to further reduce material use and cost.
Influence of Benzoyl Peroxide and Divinylbenzene Concentrations on the Properties of Poly(glycidyl methacrylate‐co‐divinylbenzene) Magnetic Microspheres
Authors: Formiga Washington José Fernandes , Silva Manoel Ribeiro da , Cunha Henrique Almeida , Castanharo Jacira Aparecida , de Ferreira Ivana Lourenço de Mello , Costa Marcos Antonio da Silva
Published: January 2023

In this work, the synthesis of magnetic microspheres of poly(glycidyl methacrylate‐co‐divinylbenzene) via suspension polymerization is reported. The concentrations of divinylbenzeneand benzoyl peroxide in the microspheres synthesis are studied. The microspheres, characterized by thermal analysis , scanning electron microscopy, vibrating sample magnetometry , and light scattering detection , show good morphological control and thermal stability. This material presents a narrow size range and an appreciable fraction of superparamagnetic particles. The increase in divinylbenzene concentration can cause a decrease in the mean diameter of the microspheres. On the other hand, the increase in benzoyl peroxide concentration causes an increase in the mean diameter of the microspheres.
Optimal network‐aware virtual data center embedding
Authors: Hbaieb Ameni , Khemakhem Mahdi
Published: January 2023

Recently, the virtual data center embedding (VDCE) problem has drawn significant attention because of a growing need for efficient means of data center resource allocation. By ensuring a set of virtual data center (VDC) integration requests coming from his customers, among the main concern of an infrastructure provider is the maximization of the utilization rate of data center resources and benefits. However, existing VDCE solutions mostly focus on consolidating virtual machines in a single physical data center. Therefore, in this work, we improve the consolidated targets techniques, that consider only the virtual machines integration, by the consideration of network devices and fabrics (e.g., switches and paths/links). We consider new unreleased constraints such as multiple virtual nodes of the same request co‐location, and intermediate node requirements when a virtual link is mapped. To address the above problem, in this paper, we propose a binary linear programming‐based model, called BLP‐VDCE, to solve the VDCE problem with network‐aware consideration. This model ensures a simultaneous consolidated embedding of virtual nodes and virtual links. Extensive simulations show that solving the proposed BLP‐VDCE model can efficiently embed VDC requests with a high physical resource utilization rate.
Nursing during the COVID‐19 pandemic: A reflective thematic analysis of how the hamster wheel shifted personal and professional control
Authors: Nelson Heather , Hubbard Murdoch Natasha , Ziefflie Beverlee , Norman Kasandra , Black Milly H. C. , Rudolph Sherri
Published: January 2023

Aim

The aim of this national study was to examine the experience of nurses 9–12 months after the onset of the pandemic.

Design

This article reports the reflective thematic analysis of the qualitative portion of a mixed methods study of the experiences of 1319 Canadian nurses between February to May 2021.

Methods

Data gathering occurred through open‐text box questions in an online survey.

Results

Three overarching themes were found: (1) the hamster wheel, (2) the shifting sense of control, and (3) the inability to leave the pandemic at work.

Conclusion

This research presents a national perspective of nurses which contributes to the wider global narrative. The experience of redeployment, nurses as decision‐makers, communication and leadership challenges were all factors impacting mental health and intraprofessional collaboration.

Implications for the Profession

The findings revealed the immense pressure, mental health concerns, and professional implications for nurses in all domains.

Public or Patient Contributions

No public or patient contributions.
Pediatric autoimmune myelofibrosis: Experience from a large pediatric tertiary care center
Authors: Kim Taylor Olmsted , Curry Choladda V. , Wiszniewska Joanna , Elghetany M. Tarek , Satter Lisa R. Forbes , Grimes Amanda B. , Despotovic Jenny M.
Published: January 2023

Autoimmune myelofibrosis (AIMF) is a rare disorder characterized by cytopenias and autoimmunity, with characteristic bone marrow findings that include lymphocytic infiltration and fibrosis. AIMF is described predominantly in adult populations who have systemic lupus erythematosis (SLE), with scant pediatric cases described mainly in older adolescents with SLE. Here, we described the largest single‐center pediatric experience of pediatric autoimmune myelofibrosis (PAIMF) series, demonstrating both similarities and distinctions from the adult experience. Patients overall respond well to steroid therapy, but these patients were significantly younger, infrequently carried a diagnosis of SLE, and causative genetic lesions were identified in many cases.