bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Novel eDNA approaches to monitor Western honey bee (Apis mellifera L.) microbial and arthropod communities
Authors: Boardman Leigh , Marcelino Jose A. P. , Valentin Rafael E. , Boncristiani Humberto , Standley Jennifer M. , Ellis James D.
Published: May 2023

Pests and pathogens are a continuous threat to the health of Western honey bee Apis mellifera L. Monitoring honey bee colonies for arthropod pests, disease‐causing bacteria and fungi, and early detection of new invasions is essential to maintain the pollination services provided by honey bees. We investigated the feasibility of using eDNA metabarcoding to detect pests and pathogens in bee hives and across their foraging environment. We sampled 13 sources for eDNA within and outside hives from our test apiary to determine where the most informative eDNA could be obtained, with most sources sampled thrice. This resulted in 61 samples, 20 negative controls, and three positive controls. Furthermore, we compared two eDNA collection techniques—wiping surfaces with moistened forensic swabs and using a spray/wash technique that aggregated surface eDNA into a container, before collecting the eDNA on a filter. We used DNA metabarcoding with universal primer sets to target arthropod, bacterial, and fungal communities. Our results showed that most sources yielded sufficient eDNA and that results of the swab and spray/wash methods were similar when they could be applied to the same surface. We detected DNA from honey bee bacterial symbionts, mycotoxin‐producing fungi and Brachymyrmex sp. rover ants. Common pests and pathogens of concern to honey bees (i.e., [small hive beetle (Aethina tumida), Varroa destructor, and Melissococcus plutonius]) were detected. This matched our visual observations of clinical signs of these pests and pathogens in the hives we tested. DNA from some species was source specific, which has implications for using eDNA as a monitoring tool. Collectively, our data show that eDNA metabarcoding can accurately detect DNA from arthropods and microbes honey bees contact and can be used as a comprehensive molecular predictor tool for colony health surveys.
Ruthenium(II) Tris‐Pyrazolylmethane Complexes in Transfer Hydrogenation Reactions
Authors: Gobbo Alberto , Ma Xinyuan , Ciancaleoni Gianluca , Zacchini Stefano , Biancalana Lorenzo , Guelfi Massimo , Pampaloni Guido , Nolan Steven P. , Marchetti Fabio
Published: May 2023

While ruthenium(II) arene complexes have been widely investigated for their potential in catalytic transfer hydrogenation, studies on homologous compounds replacing the arene ligand with the six‐electron donor tris(1‐pyrazolyl)methane (tpm) are almost absent in the literature. The reactions of [RuCl(κ3‐tpm)(PPh3)2]Cl, 1, with a series of nitrogen ligands (L) proceeded with selective PPh3 mono‐substitution, affording the novel complexes [RuCl(κ3‐tpm)(PPh3)(L)]Cl (L=NCMe, 2; NCPh, 3; imidazole, 4) in almost quantitative yields. Products 2–4 were fully characterized by IR and multinuclear NMR spectroscopy, moreover the molecular structure of 4 was ascertained by single crystal X‐ray diffraction. Compounds 2–4 were evaluated as catalytic precursors in the transfer hydrogenation of a series of ketones with isopropanol as the hydrogen source, and 2 exhibited the highest activity. Extensive NMR experiments and DFT calculations allowed to elucidate the mechanism of the transfer hydrogenation process, suggesting the crucial role played by the tpm ligand, reversibly switching from tri‐ to bidentate coordination during the catalytic cycle.
Facile Synthesis of Triptycene‐Azolium Salts and NHC‐Metal Complexes
Authors: Kaps Alexander , Plenio Herbert
Published: May 2023

The cycloaddition reactions of eleven substituted anthracenes with nosylated quinone imines provides a convenient route to the respective triptycenes. Following re‐aromatization, selective O‐butylation and cleavage of the nosyl‐group the respective triptycene anilines are obtained, which are converted into the respective imidazolium salts according to established procedures. Deprotonation of the imidazolium salts provide new triptycene‐NHC‐metal complexes (M=AuCl, RhCl(cod), IrCl(cod), RhCl(CO)2, IrCl(CO)2, PdI2(py), PtCl2(py), Pd(allyl)Cl) with unusual ligand sterics.
AQFD‐based approach for the development of smartproduct‐servicesystems
Authors: Fargnoli Mario , Haber Nicolas
Published: May 2023

The paper proposes a novel method for the development of smart product‐service systems (Smart‐PSSs) by focusing on the analysis of customer requirements and the selection of those features that can practically enhance the smart capabilities of the offering. To achieve such a goal, a quality function deployment (QFD) based method is presented to specifically address the development of Smart‐PSS solutions. The novel approach, named quality function deployment for smart‐product service systems (QFD for Smart‐PSS), relies on the deployment of smart characteristics and components besides the conventional product and service features. Such an approach allows a better granularity of the assessment and deployment of the system features by well defining the smart components in PSS. To preliminarily verify the applicability of the method, a case study concerning the development of a Smart‐PSS solution for the elevators of a building is proposed. The results achieved show the potential benefits that the proposed approach can have both in the case of novel solutions and when an existing system has to be augmented. The method is at the initial stage of development and while this study can augment knowledge on the development of Smart‐PSS, further research work is needed to extend its validation.
XML‐LightGBMDroid: A self‐driven interactive mobile application utilizing explainable machine learning for breast cancer diagnosis
Authors: Mohi Uddin Khandaker Mohammad , Biswas Nitish , Rikta Sarreha Tasmin , Dey Samrat Kumar , Qazi Atika
Published: May 2023

Nowadays, breast cancer detection and diagnosis are done using machine learning algorithms. It can enhance cancer understanding and help in treatment selection and diagnosis. But many reliable decision assistance systems have been developed as “black boxes,” or devices that conceal their internal workings from the user. In fact, this method's output is difficult to understand, which makes it difficult for doctors to use it. This study uses explainable machine learning to investigate a technique for more promptly and accurately predicting breast cancer. The data is obtained from Kaggle to generate a machine learning (ML) model that forecasts the occurrence of breast cancer and Shapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) are used to interpret the model's forecasts. To forecast the development of this disease, explainable machine learning (XML) model based on gradient boosting machine (GBM), extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost), and light gradient boosting (LightGBM) is built. The investigation's findings show that the LightGBM is capable of a maximum accuracy of 99%. An explainable ML has been demonstrated here which may produce an explicit understanding of how models generate their predictions, which is critical in boosting the confidence and acceptance of cutting‐edge ML methods in oncology and healthcare in general. Finally, a mobile app is also developed, integrating the best model.
Effect of blanching and ultrasound pretreatment on moisture migration, uniformity, and quality attributes of dried cantaloupe
Authors: Yuan Tiejian , Zhao Xiaoyan , Zhang Chao , Xu Peng , Li Xiaoqiong , Zhang Zhentao , Yang Junling , Liu Yaoyang , He Yan
Published: May 2023

To overcome problems of browning and crusting during the pretreatment process and provide theoretical guidance for cantaloupe convection drying at 80°C, the effects of blanching (BL) and ultrasonic (US) treatments were examined. The effects of various BL (5, 10, and 15 s) and US (10, 20, 30, and 40 min) durations on convection drying were tested. The moisture ratio, drying rate, moisture effective diffusivity, color, browning, nuclear magnetic resonance characteristics, and texture were assessed. Compared with the control group, the maximal decreases in the drying time of BL and US pretreatment groups were 40% and 33.3%, respectively. BL and US pretreatments significantly increased the effective diffusion coefficient and shortened the drying time because of the destruction of the cell structure. Low‐field nuclear magnetic resonance analysis showed that free water is mainly lost during the initial drying stage, while solidified water is mainly lost during middle and late stages. According to the results of magnetic resonance imaging, the moisture distribution shows that cavitation from US acts on internal tissue, while BL disrupts the structure of external tissue. Texture data define the area enclosed by SC‐D as uniform. After BL and US pretreatment, the hardness of dried cantaloupe decreased and the uniformity increased significantly. The best pretreatment process for cantaloupe at 80°C was 10 min of US. These findings provide a reference for testing in the industrial production of dried cantaloupe and are deeply relevant for practice.
The relationship of dietary inflammatory index and dietary patterns with premenstrual syndrome among women in Kermanshah: An analytical cross‐sectional study
Authors: Farpour Samaneh , Soleimani Davood , Moradinazar Mehdi , Samadi Mehnoosh
Published: May 2023

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a common psychological condition that occurs continuously during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. Potential factors in this syndrome comprise the central nervous system, hormones, genetic background, and nutritional indicators. Little is known about foods or eating patterns that may be associated with this syndrome, yet nutritional factors can be considered in strategies for the management of PMS. The current study purposed to investigate the relationship between PMS and dietary inflammation index as well as PMS and food patterns. The present cross‐sectional study was conducted on 125 women and girls aged 20–46 years who experienced symptoms of PMS. The inclusion criteria included cooperation and consent to enter the study, a body mass index of 18.5–25 kg/m2, no underlying disease, no use of contraceptives or antidepressants, and no use of multivitamin or mineral supplements. In the first stage of this study, participants' height, weight, waist circumference, and hip circumference were measured. In the second stage, eating habits were examined using a semiquantitative Food Frequency Questionnaire. This study found a significant correlation between glycemic load quintiles as well as between energy and macronutrient intake and the dietary inflammatory index; however, it revealed a direct correlation between PMS and both Western‐mixed dietary and high‐salt–high‐sugar dietary patterns. Moreover, the Western food pattern was found to have a direct correlation with dietary inflammatory index, and the healthy food pattern had an inverse correlation with this index. This study showed that PMS symptoms are more severe with the consumption of high‐salt–high‐sugar or a Western‐mixed food dietary pattern. It seems that an imbalance in hormones and neurotransmitters can affect the metabolism of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats. Also, some foods, such as vegetables, and low‐fat and high‐fiber diets reduce plasma estrogen levels and the duration of PMS symptoms.
Formal Anti‐Markovnikov Addition of Water to Olefins by Titanocene‐Catalyzed Epoxide Hydrosilylation: From Stoichiometric to Sustainable Catalytic Reactions
Authors: Höthker Sebastian , Gansäuer Andreas
Published: May 2023

Here, the evolution of the titanocene‐catalyzed hydrosilylation of epoxides that yields the corresponding anti‐Markovnikov alcohols is summarized. The study focuses on aspects of sustainability, efficient catalyst activation, and stereoselectivity. The latest variant of the reaction employs polymethylhydrosiloxane (PMHS), a waste product of the Müller–Rochow process as terminal reductant, features an efficient catalyst activation with benzylMgBr and the use of the bench stable Cp2TiCl2 as precatalyst. The combination of olefin epoxidation and epoxide hydrosilylation provides a uniquely efficient approach to the formal anti‐Markovnikov addition of H2O to olefins.
Trace elements of sulfides in the Dengjiashan Pb–Zn deposit from West Qinling, China: Implications for mineralization conditions and genesis
Authors: Guo Dongbao , Bai Ronglong , Dai Shuang , Chen Xuefeng , Niu Yongjie , Shang Lele , Ali Mujahed M. , Guo Xiaogang , Zhang Chenxiao , Wang Baolin
Published: May 2023

Dengjiashan is a large‐scale Pb–Zn deposit discovered in the western part of the Xicheng ore field within the West Qinling metallogenic belt. Information regarding the distribution and occurrence of trace elements in ore minerals and mineralization, as well as the genesis of this deposit, remains scarce. Laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA‐ICP‐MS) analysis and elemental mapping were used to determine the distribution and occurrence of trace elements in the sulfide minerals of the Dengjiashan deposit, as well as delineate the process of its genesis. Our results showed that the trace elements enriched in the different sulfides were significantly different. Sphalerite is the main carrier mineral of the scattered elements Cd, Ge and Ga. Based on the trace element content and ratio, principal component analysis and colour of the sphalerite and pyrite, the deposit likely formed in a medium‐temperature environment. The comparative analysis of trace elements from multiple deposits of different origins, combined with the geological characteristics and distribution of sulfide trace elements, suggests that Dengjiashan is a sedimentary exhalative (SEDEX)‐type deposit. As the metallogenic process had a closer relationship to medium‐low temperature hot brine and later tectonic metamorphic hydrothermal fluid, than with magmatic hydrothermal fluid, the deposit is likely of non‐magmatic SEDEX–hot brine superimposed transition origin. This study provides additional insight on the distribution of trace elements in the sulfide minerals of the Dengjiashan deposit, as well as the processes that led to its formation, and may further facilitate ongoing and future key metal prospecting and exploration efforts.
Comparison of the 2009 Institute of Medicine and 2021 Chinese guidelines for gestational weight gain: A retrospective population‐based cohort study
Authors: Gong Xiaoli , Wu Tianchen , Zhang Lizhen , You Yiping , Wei Hongwei , Zuo Xifang , Zhou Ying , Xing Xinli , Meng Zhaoyan , Lv Qi , Liu Zhaodong , Zhang Jian , Hu Liyan , Li Junnan , Li Li , Chen Chulin , Liu Chunyan , Sun Guoqiang , Liu Aiju , Lv Yuan , Zhao Yangyu , Chen Jingsi , Wei Yuan
Published: May 2023

Objective

To analyze the associations between gestational weight gain (GWG) and perinatal outcomes based on the GWG guidelines of the Chinese Nutrition Society (CNS) and the Institute of Medicine (IOM).

Methods

This was a retrospective study with 9075 low‐risk singleton pregnant women. Logistic regression model was used to analyze associations between GWG categories and perinatal outcomes. Sensitivity analyses were performed based on pre‐pregnancy body mass index (calculated as weight in kilograms divided by the square of height in meters).

Results

Excessive GWG as defined by the two guidelines was associated with a higher risk of adverse perinatal outcomes. Inadequate GWG was associated with higher risks of small for gestational age (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.34, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.10–1.64) and preterm birth (aOR 1.70, 95% CI 1.22–2.36), but a lower risk of large for gestational age (LGA) (aOR 0.77, 95% CI 0.63–0.95) according to the IOM guidelines. When using the CNS guidelines, inadequate GWG was associated with only a lower risk of preterm birth (aOR 1.80, 95% CI 1.19–2.70). Sensitivity analyses suggested that excessive GWG was associated with a higher risk of LGA in underweight women.

Conclusions

Both guidelines could demonstrate the relationship between GWG and adverse perinatal outcomes. The CNS guidelines were more suitable for the Chinese population with underweight or normal weight before pregnancy, whereas IOM was more suitable for pregnant women with inadequate GWG.
Pregnancy outcomes in patients with portal cavernoma: A case series study
Authors: Conthe Andrés , Ibáñez‐Samaniego Luis , Muñoz María Fernández , Ortega Virginia , Yunquera Ainhoa Fernández , Romero Mario , Yllana Fátima , Catalina Maria Vega , Larroca Santiago García‐Tizón , Bañares Rafael
Published: May 2023

Objective

Non‐cirrhotic portal vein cavernoma (PVC) is a cause of portal hypertension (PH) frequently affecting women of childbearing age. Cavernous transformation of the portal vein is frequently associated with prothrombotic disorders and often entails multiple hemodynamic changes, porto‐collateral shunt development and thrombopenia, all of which can affect the course of pregnancy. Our aim was to evaluate the risk of PH‐related complications and pregnancy outcomes in patients with PVC.

Methods

Retrospective case series study of patients with PVC undergoing pregnancy in a tertiary care hospital.

Results

Eight pregnancies fulfilled the eligibility criteria. All patients had a predisposing factor for PVC. One episode of variceal bleeding was reported at week 28. Six cesarean sections were scheduled to avoid labor while two urgent surgeries were indicated due to fetal distress and intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR). In all but one case, anticoagulation was prescribed after delivery. No hemorrhagic or thrombotic complications were reported. There were four cases of IUGR with no case of miscarriage or stillbirth.

Conclusion

Pregnancy in patients with PVC has an overall favorable outcome albeit a higher risk of PH‐derived complications, and IUGR may be expected. Hence, PVC must not be considered a contraindication for pregnancy although larger prospective studies are necessary.
Additively manufactured Ti‐29Nb‐21Zr shows improved oxide polarization resistance versus Ti‐6Al‐4V in inflammatory simulating solution
Authors: Kurtz Michael A. , Wessinger Audrey C. , Mace Annsley , Moreno‐Reyes Aldo , Gilbert Jeremy L.
Published: May 2023

Retrieval studies in the past two decades show severe corrosion of titanium and its alloys in orthopedic implants. This damage is promoted by mechanically assisted crevice corrosion (MACC), particularly within modular titanium‐titanium junctions. During MACC, titanium interfaces may be subject to negative potentials and reactive oxygen species (ROS), generated from cathodic activation and/or inflammation. Additive manufacturing (AM) may be able to produce new, corrosion‐resistant titanium alloys and admixtures that are less susceptible to these adverse electrochemical events. In this study, we characterize the impedance and corrosion properties of three new AM titanium materials, including Ti‐6Al‐4V with added 1% nano‐yttria stabilized ZrO2, admixed Ti‐29Nb‐21Zr, and pre‐alloyed Ti‐29Nb‐21Zr. We aim to elucidate how these materials perform when subjected to high ROS solutions. We include conventionally and additively manufactured Ti‐6Al‐4V in our study as comparison groups. A 0.1 M H2O2 phosphate‐buffered saline (PBS) solution, simulating inflammatory conditions, significantly increased biomaterial OCP (−0.14 V vs. Ag/AgCl) compared to PBS only (−0.38 V, p = .000). During anodic polarization, Ti‐6Al‐4V passive current density more than doubled from 1.28 × 10−7 to 3.81 × 10−7 A/cm2 when exposed to 0.1 M H2O2. In contrast, Ti‐29Nb‐21Zr passive current density remained relatively unchanged, slightly increasing from 7.49 × 10−8 in PBS to 9.31 × 10−8 in 0.1 M H2O2. Ti‐29Nb‐21Zr oxide polarization resistance (Rp) was not affected by 0.1 M H2O2, maintaining a high value (1.09 × 106 vs. 1.89 × 106 Ω cm2), while Ti‐6Al‐4V in 0.1 M H2O2 solution had significantly diminished Rp (4.38 × 106 in PBS vs. 7.24 × 104 Ω cm2 in H2O2). These results indicate that Ti‐29Nb‐21Zr has improved corrosion resistance in ROS containing solutions when compared with Ti‐6Al‐4V based biomaterials.
The angiogenic potential of pH‐neutral borophosphate bioactive glasses
Authors: Bromet Bradley A. , Blackwell Nathaniel P. , Abokefa Nada , Freudenberger Parker , Blatt Rebekah L. , Brow Richard K. , Semon Julie A.
Published: May 2023

Borate bioactive glasses have gained attention in recent years due to their therapeutic and regenerative effects in vivo. However, borate bioactive glasses release alkaline ions, increasing the local pH and creating a toxic environment for cell culture studies. A partial compositional substitution of phosphate for borate can create a pH‐neutral glass that does not significantly affect the local pH while still releasing therapeutic ions. In the present study, a series of Na‐Ca‐borophosphate bioactive glasses with different borate‐to‐phosphate ratios was evaluated in vitro and in vivo for cytotoxicity and angiogenic effects. Compared to more basic borate glasses, the pH‐neutral glasses supported endothelial cell migration and stimulated greater blood vessel formation in a chick chorioallantoic membrane model. The results from this study indicate that these pH‐neutral glasses are promising angiogenic biomaterials for use in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.
Risk of Fracture After Bilateral Oophorectomy
Authors: Hueg Trine K , Hickey Martha , Beck Astrid L , Wilson Louise F , Uldbjerg Cecilie S , Priskorn Lærke , Abildgaard Julie , Lim Youn‐Hee , Bräuner Elvira V
Published: May 2023

Fragility fractures, resulting from low‐energy trauma, occur in approximately 1 in 10 Danish women aged 50 years or older. Bilateral oophorectomy (surgical removal of both ovaries) may increase the risk of fragility fractures due to loss of ovarian sex steroids, particularly estrogen. We investigated the association between bilateral oophorectomy and risk of fragility fracture and whether this was conditional on age at time of bilateral oophorectomy, hormone therapy (HT) use, hysterectomy, physical activity level, body mass index (BMI), or smoking. We performed a cohort study of 25,853 female nurses (≥45 years) participating in the Danish Nurse Cohort. Nurses were followed from age 50 years or entry into the cohort, whichever came last, until date of first fragility fracture, death, emigration, or end of follow‐up on December 31, 2018, whichever came first. Cox regression models with age as the underlying time scale were used to estimate the association between time‐varying bilateral oophorectomy (all ages, <51/≥51 years) and incident fragility fracture (any and site‐specific [forearm, hip, spine, and other]). Exposure and outcome were ascertained from nationwide patient registries. During 491,626 person‐years of follow‐up, 6600 nurses (25.5%) with incident fragility fractures were identified, and 1938 (7.5%) nurses had a bilateral oophorectomy. The frequency of fragility fractures was 24.1% in nurses who were <51 years at time of bilateral oophorectomy and 18.1% in nurses who were ≥51 years. No statistically significant associations were observed between bilateral oophorectomy at any age and fragility fractures at any site. Neither HT use, hysterectomy, physical activity level, BMI, nor smoking altered the results. © 2023 The Authors. JBMR Plus published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate Promotes Bone Formation Via CaMKII Signaling
Authors: Xie Yongheng , Bao Zhiteng , Wang Zhenmin , Du Danfeng , Chen Gaoyang , Liu Chungeng , Wang Hongyu , Feng Naibo , Xiao Xiao , Wang Song , Zhang Xin , Zhu Yong , Yuan Zhengbin , Long Houqing , Yang Dazhi , Peng Songlin
Published: May 2023

Dysregulation of bone homeostasis is closely related to the pathogenesis of osteoporosis. Suppressing bone resorption by osteoclasts to attenuate bone loss has been widely investigated, but far less effort has been poured toward promoting bone formation by osteoblasts. Here, we aimed to explore magnesium ascorbyl phosphate (MAP), a hydrophilic and stable ascorbic acid derivative, as a potential treatment option for bone loss disorder by boosting osteoblastogenesis and bone formation. We found that MAP could promote the proliferation and osteoblastic differentiation of human skeletal stem and progenitor cells (SSPCs) in vitro. Moreover, MAP supplementation by gavage could alleviate bone loss and accelerate bone defect healing through promoting bone formation. Mechanistically, we identified calcium/calmodulin‐dependent serine/threonine kinase IIα (CaMKIIα) as the target of MAP, which was found to be directly bound and activated by MAP, then with a concomitant activation in the phosphorylation of ERK1/2 (extracellular regulated kinase 1/2) and CREB (cAMP‐response element binding protein) as well as an elevation of C‐FOS expression. Further, blocking CaMKII signaling notably abolished these effects of MAP on SSPCs and bone remodeling. Taken together, our data indicated that MAP played an important role in enhancing bone formation through the activation of CaMKII/ERK1/2/CREB/C‐FOS signaling pathway and may be used as a novel therapeutic option for bone loss disorders such as osteoporosis. © 2023 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).
Evaluation of cytotoxic, antifungal, and larvicidal activities of different bis‐sulfonamide Schiff base compounds
Authors: Aydin Hasan , Akocak Süleyman , Lolak Nebih , Yumrutaş Önder , Uslu Uğur , Bozgeyik Ibrahim , Üçkardeş Fatih , Günal Selami , Ceylan Onur
Published: May 2023

Schiff bases (imines or azomethines) are versatile ligands synthesized from the condensation of amino compounds with active carbonyl groups and used for many pharmaceutical and medicinal applications. In our study, we aimed to determine the cytotoxic, antifungal and larvicidal activities of biologically potent bis‐sulfonamide Schiff base derivatives that were re‐synthesized by us. For this aim, 16 compounds were re‐synthesized and tested for their cytotoxic, antifungal and larvicidal properties. Among this series, compounds A1B2, A1B4, A4B2, A4B3, and A4B4 were shown to have cytotoxic activity against tested cancer lung cell line (A549). The most potent antifungal activity was observed in compounds A2B1 and A2B2 against all fungi. A1B1 showed the strongest larvicidal effect at all concentrations at the 72nd h (100% mortality). These obtained results demonstrate that these type of bis‐substituted compounds might be used as biologically potent pharmacophores against different types of diseases.
A tight bound for independent domination of cubic graphs without 4‐cycles
Authors: Cho Eun‐Kyung , Choi Ilkyoo , Kwon Hyemin , Park Boram
Published: May 2023

Given a graph , a dominating set of is a set of vertices such that each vertex not in has a neighbor in . Let denote the minimum size of a dominating set of . The independent domination number of , denoted , is the minimum size of a dominating set of that is also independent. We prove that if is a cubic graph without 4‐cycles, then , and the bound is tight. This result improves upon two results from two papers by Abrishami and Henning. Our result also implies that every cubic graph without 4‐cycles satisfies , which supports a question asked by O and West.
Assessing the impact of hospital mergers and acquisitions on safety culture with proactive risk assessments
Authors: Folcarelli Patricia , Hoffman Jock , Janes Margaret , MacCready Jennifer Clair , Roberts Annette , Boulanger Jason , DeMayo Melissa , Sanchez Jennifer Vuu , Szum Bessie Manley
Published: May 2023

Hospitals seeking to understand patient safety strengths and vulnerabilities in the context of mergers/acquisitions benefit more from a third‐party perspective than from a limited internal process. A well‐structured and highly‐inclusive risk assessment—involving a broad cross‐section of interviews—can be key to a successful transition of optimal health care safety during organizational changes.
The impact of environmental technology innovation and energy credit rebate on carbon emissions: A comparative analysis
Authors: Zakari Abdulrasheed , Khan Irfan , Alvarado Rafael
Published: May 2023

This study investigates the impact of environmental‐technological innovation and energy credit rebates on carbon reductions in Australia and its global comparison. We applied a system generalized method of moment (S‐GMM) on a dataset of 11 years (from 2008 to 2019) for Australia and 23 top green scheme economies. The main findings suggested that Australia's environmental innovation and energy credit rebates are associated with carbon reduction. Similarly, we found that environmental innovation is associated with carbon reduction in the 23 top green schemes economies, but energy credit rebate increases carbon emissions. This is due to the weak green financial system in the 23 top green schemes economies. We robust our findings, and the result confirmed a robust alternative model. These findings offer numerous essential policies for the government and stakeholders in the energy and environmental sectors. More specifically, it recommends more investment in environmental innovation and an overhaul of the green financial market.
Selecting a high‐dose antibiotic‐laden cement knee spacer
Authors: Hollyer Ian , Ivanov David , Kappagoda Shanthi , Lowenberg David W. , Goodman Stuart B. , Amanatullah Derek F.
Published: May 2023

Prosthetic joint infection [PJI] after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) remains a common and challenging problem for joint replacement surgeons and patients. Once the diagnosis of PJI has been made, patient goals and characteristics as well as the infection timeline dictate treatment. Most commonly, this involves a two‐stage procedure with the removal of all implants, debridement, and placement of a static or dynamic antibiotic spacer. Static spacers are commonly indicated for older, less healthy patients that would benefit from soft tissue rest after initial debridement. Mobile spacers are typically used in younger, healthier patients to improve quality of life and reduce soft‐tissue contractures during antibiotic spacer treatment. Spacers are highly customizable with regard to antibiotic choice, cement variety, and spacer design, each with reported advantages, drawbacks, and indications that will be covered in this article. While no spacer is superior to any other, the modern arthroplasty surgeon must be familiar with the available modalities to optimize treatment for each patient. Here we propose a treatment algorithm to assist surgeons in deciding on treatment for PJI after TKA.
The Application Value of Contrast‐Enhanced Ultrasonography in Assessing the Efficacy of Ultrasound‐Guided Lauromacrogol Injections in Cesarean Scar Pregnancies
Authors: Wu Dao‐Ming , Zhu Lin , Lin Tan , Chen Sheng , Wu Song‐Song , Lin Ning
Published: May 2023

Objective

To investigate the application value of contrast‐enhanced ultrasonography (CEUS) in ultrasound‐guided lauromacrogol injections in patients with cesarean scar pregnancies (CSP).

Methods

A total of 31 patients diagnosed with CSP, who underwent an ultrasound‐guided lauromacrogol injection + curettage in our hospital between February 2019 and December 2020 and had a complete recovery confirmed by a postoperative ultrasound review and serum β‐human chorionic gonadotropin (β‐hCG) assay, were enrolled as the study subjects. According to the volume of intraoperative blood loss and the duration of postoperative vaginal bleeding, the patients were divided into two groups, with 19 in the significantly effective group (Group A) and 12 in the effective group (Group B). The recorded clinical data, including age, duration of amenorrhea, number of pregnancies, number of deliveries, time since last cesarean delivery, number of cesarean deliveries, and preoperative serum β‐hCG levels, were retrospectively analyzed. The morphological indicators in CEUS before the lauromacrogol injection, as well as immediately and 12–24 hours after the injection, were compared between the groups.

Results

In Group A, the post‐injection CEUS showed no enhancement, single strip enhancement, and sparse punctate enhancement, while in Group B, it showed a more irregular ring and local patch enhancement. In addition, the number of cases where the CEUS showed no enhancement 12–24 hours after the injection was more than that of the immediate CEUS after the injection. In Group A, four (21.1%) cases showed a single strip‐like blood flow on the immediate postoperative CEUS, four (21.1%) cases showed a sparsely dotted blood flow on the immediate postoperative CEUS, and three cases turned into no enhancement 12–24 hours after the injection. A total of four cases in Group B showed that the contrast enhancement range 12–24 hours after the injection was reduced compared with that of the immediate contrast after the injection.

Conclusion

Contrast‐enhanced ultrasonography can guide the location selection of the lauromacrogol injection in patients with CSP, and its postoperative morphological indicators can adequately predict the therapeutic effect after curettage and guide clinical management.
Effects of tillage practice on fungal and actinobacterial cellulolytic community with different humified particle‐size fractions in a double‐cropping paddy field
Authors: Tang Haiming , Shi Lihong , Wen Li , Cheng Kaikai , Li Chao , Li Weiyan , Xiao Xiaoping
Published: May 2023

Soil cellulose plays a vital role in keeping or increasing carbon (C) cycling and fertility of rice fields. There is a close relation between soil fulvic acid (FA), humin (HM) fractions, and GH48, cbhI genes. However, the effects of different tillage practices on soil humus C content composition, GH48, and cbhI genes abundances in different soil particle‐size fractions of double‐cropping rice fields still need to be further investigated. Therefore, the impacts of different short‐term tillage practices on soil GH48 and cbhI genes abundances in double‐cropping rice fields were conducted. This experiment set up different tillage practices: rotary tillage with crop straw removed as a control (RTO), conventional tillage with crop straw in put (CT), rotary tillage with crop straw in put (RT), and no‐tillage with crop straw retain (NT). The result indicated that the distribution of soil humus, and GH48, cbhI genes abundances were significantly enhanced under combined applied with tillage and crop straw incorporation conditions. Soil FA, HM, and humic acid (HA) C content in 2000–50 μm and >2000 μm fractions with RTO treatment were significantly lower than that of CT, RT, and NT treatments. This result showed that oalkyl and alkyl of HA and FA in 2000–200, 200–50, 50–2, and 2–0.1 μm fractions with CT, RT, NT, and RTO treatments were lower than that of >2000 μm fraction. There was lower ARO% and more AL% of FA and HA in these fractions under the same tillage condition. The result showed that GH48 and cbhI genes abundances in these fractions with CT, RT, and NT treatments were significantly higher than that of RTO treatment. There had significantly positively correlated with GH48, cbhI genes abundances, and soil HA, FA, HM C contents, o‐alkyl C, and AL% of FA. Therefore, it was positively practiced for increasing GH48 and cbhI genes abundances in the double‐cropping rice fields by applying with tillage and crop straw incorporation.
Stakeholder perspectives on data sharing from pragmatic clinical trials: Unanticipated challenges for meeting emerging requirements
Authors: Morain Stephanie R. , Bollinger Juli , Weinfurt Kevin , Sugarman Jeremy
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Numerous arguments have been advanced for broadly sharing de‐identified, participant‐level clinical trial data. However, data sharing in pragmatic clinical trials (PCTs) presents ethical challenges. While prior scholarship has described aspects of PCTs that raise distinct considerations for data sharing, there have been no reports of the experiences of those at the leading edge of data‐sharing efforts for PCTs, including how these particular challenges have been navigated. To address this gap, we conducted interviews with key stakeholders, with a focus on the ethical issues presented by sharing data from PCTs.

Methods

We recruited respondents using purposive sampling to reflect the range of stakeholder groups affected by efforts to expand PCT data sharing. Through semi‐structured interviews, we explored respondents' experiences and perceptions about sharing de‐identified, individual‐level data from PCTs. An integrated approach was used to identify and describe key themes.

Results

We conducted 40 interviews between April and September 2022. Five overarching themes emerged through analysis: (1) challenges in sharing data collected under a waiver or alteration of consent; (2) conflicting views regarding PCT patient‐subject preferences for data sharing; (3) identification of respect‐promoting practices beyond consent; (4) concerns about elevated risks or burdens from sharing PCT data; and (5) diverse views about the likely benefits resulting from sharing PCT data.

Conclusion

Our data indicate unresolved tensions in how to fulfill the expectation to broadly share de‐identified, individual‐level data from PCTs, and suggest that those promulgating and implementing data‐sharing policies must be sensitive to PCT‐specific considerations. Future work could inform efforts to tailor data‐sharing policy and practice to reflect the challenges presented by PCTs, including sharing experiences from trials that have successfully navigated these tensions.
The influence of local wear and contact roughness on mixed lubrication of marine stern bearing with misaligned shaft
Authors: Zhao Zeyu , Huang Qianwen , Sheng Minghui
Published: May 2023

The marine stern bearing provides supporting force by lubricating film to minimise the contact friction with the propeller shaft. A model considers local wear and asperity contact is proposed to investigate the mixed lubrication of bearing with misalignment. The finite difference method and over‐relaxation iteration method are employed to solve the average Reynolds equation. The lubrication behaviour includes hydrodynamic pressure, film thickness, contact force and friction coefficient were calculated. The influence of sliding speed, local wear, contact roughness, misalignment angle, elastic deformation and eccentricity ratio is discussed in detail. The critical speed from mixed lubrication to fluid lubrication is obtained by employing the Stribeck curve. Moreover, the dimensionless average hydrodynamic pressure, film thickness and the peak value of contact force are compared.
Light and energy‐based therapeutics for genitourinary applications: Consensus on protocols and best practices
Authors: Alexiades Macrene R. , Iglesias Cheryl , Sokol Eric , Gaspar Adrian , Tadir Yona
Published: May 2023

Background

Lasers and energy‐based technologies have been developed for genitourinary applications over the past several decades.

Aims

This consensus article aims to categorize the published articles and clinical trial data that culminated in protocol development of technology for genitourinary applications, and to develop consistent parameters in future clinical trials.

Materials and Methods

The published articles and clinical trials data on lasers and energy‐based devices applied to genitourinary conditions were categorized according to device and condition and consensus developed on protocols and parameters.

Results

The devices in genitourinary applications were classified as fractional lasers, radiofrequency and high‐intensity focused electromagnetic field therapy. The consensus of the protocols and parameters based upon the published clinical trials of their application to the vaginal and urologic conditions associated with genitourinary syndrome of menopause was developed and organized according to device and condition.

Discussion

The status of FDA clearances and future pathways are discussed.

Conclusions

This consensus article categorizes and presents the protocols and practices for the main classes of lasers and energy‐based devices for genitourinary applications in future clinical trials.
Efficacy and safety of fractional 1064‐nm picosecond laser for atrophic traumatic and surgical scars: A randomized, single‐blinded, split‐scar‐controlled study
Authors: Disphanurat Wareeporn , Charutanan Nipathorn , Sitthiwatthanawong Pradtana , Suthiwartnarueput Worapop
Published: May 2023

Objective

A fractional 1064‐nm picosecond laser is an efficient and safe treatment for atrophic acne scars. However, evidence of using a picosecond laser for atrophic posttraumatic and surgical scar therapy is lacking. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of using a 1064‐nm picosecond laser with a microlens array (MLA) for the treatment of atrophic posttraumatic and surgical scars.

Methods

This was a prospective, intraindividual, single‐blinded, randomized split‐lesion‐controlled trial. Twenty‐five subjects with atrophic traumatic or surgical scars that existed for more than 1 year were enrolled. All atrophic scars were divided at the midline into two halves and randomly assigned to a treatment or control side. The treatment group was treated with a 1064‐nm picosecond laser with an MLA handpiece (spot size: 6–8 mm, fluence: 1.0–1.2 J/cm2, repetition rate: 5 Hz, three passes) for 3 monthly sessions. The scar volumes were objectively measured using a three‐dimensional (3D) photograph at baseline, 1 month after the first and second treatments, and 3 and 6 months after the final treatment. Subjective assessments were conducted by a blinded dermatologist and patients' self‐assessment to evaluate improvements at 3 months after the final treatment.

Results

The treated sides exhibited a significant volume reduction, with statistically significant improvements over the control group at 1 month after the first and second treatments and at 3 months after the final treatment (p = 0.024, 0.005, and 0.019, respectively). At 3 months after the final treatment, a blinded dermatologist correctly identified the treated side in 24 of 25 patients (96%). The patients rated the improvements as excellent (>75%) and marked (50%–75%) in 36% and 48% of patients, respectively.

Conclusion

At 3 months, the 1064‐nm picosecond laser with a fractionated MLA can significantly reduce the posttraumatic and postsurgical atrophic scar volume in patients with Fitzpatrick skin types III‐V. Insufficient data preclude inferences regarding efficacy at 6 months.
Dual‐channel supply chain coordination under risk aversion and fairness concerns
Authors: Xue Lin , Wang Kangzhou
Published: May 2023

This paper studies coordination in a dual‐channel supply chain consisting of a risk‐averse retailer with fairness concerns and a risk‐neutral and fairness‐neutral manufacturer where the market demand and manufacturer yield are both uncertain. Based on CVaR criterion and fairness concern theory, a dual‐channel supply chain decision‐making model for the risk‐averse retailer with fairness concerns is constructed, and the optimal decision under centralized and decentralized dual‐channel supply chains is discussed. A new joint contract formed from revenue‐sharing and buyback contracts is presented to coordinate the dual‐channel supply chain under yield and demand uncertainty conditions that realizes Pareto improvement. The influences of yield and demand uncertainties, the risk aversion coefficient, and the fairness concern coefficient on retailer‘s order quantity, retailer's expected utility function value, manufacturer's planned yield, and manufacturer's expected utility function value are analyzed through numerical examples. The feasible range of Pareto improvement under the joint contract is also discussed.
On selling format choice and quality differentiation in dual‐channel supply chains
Authors: Zhang Qiaoke , Mantin Benny , Chen Hongzhuan
Published: May 2023

When suppliers sell products through a direct channel and an indirect channel, they usually differentiate the two channels by quality to alleviate channel conflicts. The quality choice for different channels poses a great challenge to the suppliers, which also bears implications for the online retailer's choice between the reselling format and the agency format. This paper uses a game‐theoretic model to investigate the interaction between the supplier's quality differentiation strategy and the online retailer's selling format choice in dual‐channel supply chains. Different from the previous literature, we endogenize the supplier's quality decisions and find that the supplier always chooses to sell the high‐quality product through the direct channel and sell the low‐quality product through the online retailer. Moreover, compared with the reselling format, the quality level of the low‐quality product is reduced but that of the high‐quality product is lightly increased under the agency format. The intuition is that the supplier tends to highlight the advantage of each channel to acquire more profit. Regardless of the supplier's choice, the online retailer always prefers the agency format. We further extend our model in several important directions, which lend robustness to our core insights.
Validation and psychometric properties of the Arabic version of the Warwick–Edinburgh Mental Well‐being Scale (WEMWBS) on a sample of students in Qatar
Authors: Al‐Wattary Noor , Mollazehi Mohammad , Al‐Jubouri Abdullah M. , Al‐Qahtani Noof A. , Jolo Lolwa K. , Badr Ahmed A. , Arif Mariah , ElTantawi Nouran A. , Al‐Kuwari Moza S.
Published: May 2023

The Warwick–Edinburgh Mental Well‐being Scale (WEMWBS) is a widely used tool to assess mental well‐being and life satisfaction in various populations. However, the psychometric properties of the WEMWBS in Arabic‐speaking populations have not been established. This study aimed to validate and assess the psychometric properties of the Arabic version of the WEMWBS among adolescents. A rigorous translation process was conducted, and the scale was administered to 470 participants aged 13–18 years in Qatar. The data were analyzed using exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses, internal consistency, and validity assessments. The results showed that the Arabic version of the WEMWBS had a unidimensional structure, with high factor loadings and good internal consistency. The findings suggest that the Arabic version of the WEMWBS is a valid and reliable tool for assessing mental well‐being and life satisfaction among Arabic‐speaking adolescents. These results can facilitate the use of the Arabic WEMWBS scale in different mental well‐being studies that include Arabic‐speaking populations.
Fractional modeling and optimal control strategies for mutated COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Ma Weiyuan , Ma Nuri , Dai Changping , Chen YangQuan , Wang Xinwei
Published: May 2023

As the COVID‐19 continues to mutate, the number of infected people is increasing dramatically, and the vaccine is not enough to fight the mutated strain. In this paper, a SEIR‐type fractional model with reinfection and vaccine inefficacy is proposed, which can successfully capture the mutated COVID‐19 pandemic. The existence, uniqueness, boundedness, and nonnegativeness of the fractional model are derived. Based on the basic reproduction number
, locally stability and globally stability are analyzed. The sensitivity analysis evaluate the influence of each parameter on the
and rank key epidemiological parameters. Finally, the necessary conditions for implementing fractional optimal control are obtained by Pontryagin's maximum principle, and the corresponding optimal solutions are derived for mitigation COVID‐19 transmission. The numerical results show that humans will coexist with COVID‐19 for a long time under the current control strategy. Furthermore, it is particularly important to develop new vaccines with higher protection rates.