bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dismutation von Tricyanoborblei‐Verbindungen: Das homoleptische Tetrakis(tricyanoboryl)plumbat‐Tetraanion
Authors: Häring Mathias , Kerpen Christoph , Ribbeck Tatjana , Hennig Philipp T. , Bertermann Rüdiger , Ignat'ev Nikolai V. , Finze Maik
Published: March 2022

Eine Serie unerwartet luftstabiler Tricyanoborylplumbat‐Anionen wurde ausgehend vom Bor‐zentrierten Nukleophil B(CN)32− und Triorganylbleihalogeniden erhalten. Unterschiedliche an der Luft und bei Raumtemperatur stabile Salze mit den Anionen [R3PbB(CN)3]− (R=Ph, Et) wurden isoliert. Die Reaktionen ausgehend von Me3PbHal (Hal=Cl, Br) lieferten Mischungen der Anionen [Me4−nPb{B(CN)3}n]n− (n=1, 2). Das [Et3PbB(CN)3]−‐Ion dismutiert in wässriger Lösung stufenweise zu [Et4−nPb{B(CN)3}n]n− (n=2–4) mit PbEt4 als Nebenprodukt. Die Geschwindigkeit der Umsetzungen steigt mit abnehmendem pH‐Wert des wässrigen Reaktionsmediums oder beim Durchleiten von O2. Die selektive Synthese von Salzen mit den Anionen [Et4−nPb{B(CN)3}n]n− (n=1–4) einschließlich des homoleptischen Tetraanions [Pb{B(CN)3}4]4− wurde durch Anpassen der Reaktionsbedingungen erreicht.
Beta cyclodextrin modified polyvinylidene fluoride adsorptive mixed matrix membranes for removal of Congo red
Authors: Ndlovu Lloyd N. , Malatjie Kgolofelo I. , Chabalala Mandla B. , Mishra Ajay K. , Mishra Shivani B. , Nxumalo Edward N.
Published: March 2022

This work reports the adsorptive removal of congo red using as‐fabricated polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) membranes modified with beta cyclodextrin (β–CD). Diverse techniques were used to characterize the membranes' performance and microstructural and morphological properties. The effect of pH, dye initial concentration, adsorbent dosage, contact time on adsorption efficiency were investigated. Filtration studies were carried out using a dead‐end cell. The results showed that the introduction of β–CD in membrane matrix improved membrane performance, adsorption, and filtration properties. Bulk porosity increased from 61.46% to 87.55% and contact angle decreased from 84.170 to 67.930. Water flux at 1 bar improved from 12.42 to 269.08 L.m−2.hr−1. Maximum adsorption for congo red was obtained at pH 7, with PVDF/β–CD membranes removing 96.15% and pristine PVDF removing 54.27% of congo red. The adsorptive removal of congo red was best described by the pseudo‐second order kinetics and best fitted the Freundlich isotherm model. According to the findings, the adsorption mechanism is credited to electrostatic interactions, hydrogen bonds, and inclusion complexation introduced by β–CD molecules. The dye removal efficiency through filtration was 77.28%. This work indicates that the PVDF/β–CD membranes can be used in the removal of anionic dyes from wastewater through adsorption and filtration techniques. Thus, the distinctiveness of this work is on the mechanistic characteristics of adsorptive mixed matrix PVDF/β–CD membranes on removal of Congo red.
Production of polyhydroxyalkanoate nanoparticles using a green solvent
Authors: Zhang Jianhua , Cran Marlene J.
Published: March 2022

Biopolymer nanoparticles (NPs) produced from poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate‐co‐3‐hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV) are typically formed by first dissolving the polymer in organic solvents. In order to eliminate the use of toxic solvents, an alternative “green” solvent system using glacial acetic acid was used in this study for the preparation of NPs via nanoprecipitation. The influence of various factors on the resulting particle size was investigated including the use of an emulsifying agent, temperatures of stock and receiving solutions, and concentration of stock solution. The addition of emulsifier significantly reduced the NP size, whereas temperature had minimal influence on the particle size over the tested range. By varying the concentration of the stock solution, the size of the NPs can be adequately controlled. The minimum size of NPs prepared using a stock solution of 0.5 ml at 80°C into a 100 ml receiving solution was 70 nm with a narrow size distribution. Imaging by scanning electron microscopy revealed smooth spherical NPs and thermal and structural analysis showed only minor changes in properties in comparison with the source PHBV powder. Overall, the results show that glacial acetic acid is an appropriate alternative solvent for the dissolution of PHBV and the subsequent formation of biopolymer NPs.
Effect of pyrolysis carbon black and carbon nanotubes on properties of natural rubber conductive composites
Authors: Yan Gang , Han Deshang , Li Wenchao , Qiu Jian , Jiang Chaojie , Li Li , Wang Chuansheng
Published: March 2022

Carbon based materials with excellent conductivity such as conductive carbon black, graphene, and carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are often used in the preparation of conductive polymer composites. Pyrolysis carbon black, as a recycled material of waste rubber, can be used as a substitute for other carbon black in some fields, which can greatly reduce the production cost and promote reuse of used rubber. In this article, pyrolysis carbon black is mixed with CNT and added to natural rubber by mechanical blending method to get the composite material. The synergistic effect of pyrolysis carbon black and CNT, 3D network structure and formation of conductive network are investigated, and the properties of composites are analyzed. The results show that the 3D “grape cluster” network structure formed by the synergistic action of the pyrolysis carbon black and CNT, which led to the improvement of the curing properties and mechanical properties of the composites, increase the Payne effect, decrease the dispersion of the filler, and significant reduction the volume resistivity of the composites. With the increasing of CNT content, the variation of the properties of the composites changed and stabilized. In general, when 40 phr pyrolysis carbon black and 4 phr CNT are mixed into rubber matrix, the composite has the best comprehensive performance, and the volume resistivity is 9.25E5. Our results provide new thoughts in preparing natural rubber conductive composites. By adding highly CNT and inexpensive pyrolysis carbon black, the problem of easy aggregation of a single filler is overcome, which is more economical than adding two highly conductive fillers, and the process is simpler and time‐saving compared to the modified solution. More studies need to be done in order to reveal the effects of pyrolysis carbon black in practical conductive composites.
Improving the swelling, mechanical, and electrical properties in natural rubber latex/carbon nanotubes nanocomposites: Effect of the sonication method
Authors: Barbosa Rafael , Gonçalves Roger , Tozzi Kaique Afonso , Saccardo Matheus Colovati , Zuquello Ariel Gustavo , Scuracchio Carlos Henrique
Published: March 2022

Conductive polymeric composites are exciting for future electronic applications given the possibility to ally electrical conductivity and flexibility. However, the high viscosity of plasticized elastomers difficult the dispersion of conductive fillers in an elastomeric matrix is difficult. This research aimed to compare the use of bath or probe sonication to disperse multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) in the lower‐viscosity natural rubber latex. The MWCNT concentration varied from 0.5 to 2.5 wt%, and the coagulated compounds were vulcanized after compounding in a two‐roll mill. Nanocomposite's swelling behavior was determined by Flory–Rehner crosslink density and Kraus theory, indicating better dispersion in probe sonication, which also was conducted in lesser time and applied lower energy than bath sonication. This result is evidenced through tensile strength and hardness tests, as the better MWCNT dispersion improved the reinforcement due to greater filler–matrix interaction. The electrical response was obtained by impedance spectroscopy, with higher conductivities also found in tip‐sonicated samples. In addition, cyclic strain fatigue test was realized from 20% to 100% strain during 20,000 cycles with simultaneous impedance measurement, reinforcing the better distribution of MWCNT in the probe‐sonicated nanocomposites with higher tensile stress (Payne's effect) and conductivity retention than bath sonicated.
Acridinium‐conjugated aromatic heterocycles as highly potent FtsZ inhibitors: Design, synthesis, and biological evaluation
Authors: Song Di , Zhang Nan , Ma Yangchun , Zhang Shenyan , Chen Weijin , Guo Ting , Ma Shutao
Published: March 2022

The epidemic of multidrug resistance (MDR) is a serious threat to public health, and new classes of antibiotics with novel mechanisms of action are in critical need. We rationally designed and efficiently synthesized three series of new chemical entities with potential antibacterial activity targeting filamenting temperature‐sensitive mutant Z (FtsZ). Evaluation of these compounds against a panel of Gram‐positive bacteria including MDR and vancomycin‐resistant Enterococcus strains indicated that most compounds showed enhanced antibacterial efficacy, comparable or even superior to the reference drugs. The newly synthesized compounds proved to be substrates of the Escherichia coli efflux pump AcrB, thus affecting the activity. Their structure–activity relationships were summarized in detail. The most potent compound 10f quickly eliminated bacteria in a bactericidal mode, with low susceptibility to induce bacterial resistance. Further mechanistic studies with the BsFtsZ protein revealed that 10f functioned as an effective FtsZ inhibitor through altering the dynamics of FtsZ self‐polymerization via a stimulatory mechanism, which leads to inhibition of cell division and cell death. Besides, 10f not only displayed no obvious cytotoxicity to mammalian cells but also had a high efficacy in a murine model of bacteremia in vivo. Regarded as a whole, our findings highlight 10f as a promising new FtsZ‐targeting bactericidal agent.
The emerging science of content labeling: Contextualizing social media content moderation
Authors: Morrow Garrett , Swire‐Thompson Briony , Polny Jessica Montgomery , Kopec Matthew , Wihbey John P.
Published: March 2022

In the online information ecosystem, a content label is an attachment to a piece of content intended to contextualize that content for the viewer. Content labels are information about information, such as fact‐checks or sensitive content warnings. Research into content labeling is nascent, but growing; researchers have made strides toward understanding labeling best practices to deal with issues such as disinformation, and misleading content that may affect everything from voting to health. To make this review tractable, we focus on compiling the literature that can contextualize labeling effects and consequences. This review summarizes the central labeling literature, highlights gaps for future research, discusses considerations for social media, and explores definitions toward a taxonomy. Specifically, this article discusses the particulars of content labels, their presentation, and the effects of various labels. The current literature can guide the usage of labels on social media platforms and inform public debate over platform moderation.
anti‐Markovnikov Iodofluorination of Alkenes
Authors: Qian Bai‐Yu , Zhang Wei , Lin Jin‐Hong , Cao Weiguo , Xiao Ji‐Chang
Published: March 2022

The fluorination of alkenes with electrophilic N−F type reagents usually occurs through a Markovnikov‐type addition, and the anti‐Markovnikov‐type addition may require the use of a transition metal catalyst or an expensive catalyst. Herein we describe a convenient anti‐Markovnikov iodofluorination of alkenes with Selectfluor/nBu4NI. A wide substrate scope and good functional group tolerance were observed. The process allows for the construction of various C−F bonds, especially tertiary C−F bonds. The remarkable features make this protocol attractive, including convenient operations, simple reaction conditions, and the installation of an iodine atom which provides possibilities for further transformations.
Critical Periods in Science and the Science of Critical Periods: Canine Behavior in America
Authors: Bolman Brad
Published: March 2022

This article offers a canine history of the “critical period” concept, situating its emergence within a growing, interdisciplinary network of canine behavior studies that connected eugenically minded American veterinarians, behavioral geneticists, and dog lovers with large institutional benefactors. These studies established both logistical and conceptual foundations for large‐scale science with dogs while establishing a lingering interdependence between American dog science and eugenics. The article emphasizes the importance of dogs as subjects of ethological study, particularly in the United States, where some of the earliest organized efforts to analyze canine behavior began. Further, the article argues that the “critical period” is important not only for its lasting prominence in multiple fields of scientific inquiry, but also as a historiographical tool, one that invites reflection on the tendency of historians to emphasize a particular narrative structure of scientific advancement.
Missing data imputation in clinical trials using recurrent neural network facilitated by clustering and oversampling
Authors: Haliduola Halimu N. , Bretz Frank , Mansmann Ulrich
Published: March 2022

In clinical practice, the composition of missing data may be complex, for example, a mixture of missing at random (MAR) and missing not at random (MNAR) assumptions. Many methods under the assumption of MAR are available. Under the assumption of MNAR, likelihood‐based methods require specification of the joint distribution of the data, and the missingness mechanism has been introduced as sensitivity analysis. These classic models heavily rely on the underlying assumption, and, in many realistic scenarios, they can produce unreliable estimates. In this paper, we develop a machine learning based missing data prediction framework with the aim of handling more realistic missing data scenarios. We use an imbalanced learning technique (i.e., oversampling of minority class) to handle the MNAR data. To implement oversampling in longitudinal continuous variable, we first perform clustering via ‐mean trajectories. And use the recurrent neural network (RNN) to model the longitudinal data. Further, we apply bootstrap aggregating to improve the accuracy of prediction and also to consider the uncertainty of a single prediction. We evaluate the proposed method using simulated data. The prediction result is evaluated at the individual patient level and the overall population level. We demonstrate the powerful predictive capability of RNN for longitudinal data and its flexibility for nonlinear modeling. Overall, the proposed method provides an accurate individual prediction for both MAR and MNAR data and reduce the bias of missing data in treatment effect estimation when compared to standard methods and classic models. Finally, we implement the proposed method in a real dataset from an antidepressant clinical trial. In summary, this paper offers an opportunity to encourage the integration of machine learning strategies for handling of missing data in the analysis of randomized clinical trials.
Antiproliferative and Antimigratory Effects of Isoeugenol‐Based Polyphenolic Compounds
Authors: Tayhan Secil Erden , Bilgin Sema , Yıldırım Aslı , Koc Esra , Ceylan Mustafa
Published: March 2022

In this research, the effect of synthesized polyphenolic compounds 4 and 5 at the cellular and molecular levels was examined. Within this framework, related substances effects on prostate cell (PC3) viability were evaluated by MTT analysis, and their effects on migration were examined by in vitro scratch analysis. Additionally, mRNA expression levels of gene regions known to be associated with metastasis and apoptosis were determined by real‐time quantitative PCR. DNA binding researches have also been carried out to determine the DNA compound interactions. As a consequence, it was determined that 4 and 5 obstructed the PC3 cell viability in a manner that is dose‐ and time‐dependent. The IC50 dose of 4 and 5 in PC3 cell was found to be 60.14 μM, 15.51 μM for 48 h, respectively. 4 and 5 substances showed suppressive effect on migration of PC3 cancer cells in the in vitro scratch model created at IC50 concentrations. Compared to the negative control, PC3 cancer cells treated with 4 and 5 showed 24 % and 46 % closure, respectively, at the wound site at 48 h. 4 and 5 compounds were treated at IC50 concentrations with PC3 cancer cells for 48 h, and then the effects of both compounds on the gene expression, that have been linked to metastasis and apoptosis, at the mRNA level were evaluated. It was determined that 4 decreased the expression of the HIF1‐α gene 294 times and 5 decreased the expression of the said gene 30 times. In addition, both 4 and 5 were able to significantly increase the Bax/Bcl‐2 mRNA expression ratio (32.65 and 10.46 fold, P<0.0001) in PC3 cells as compared to untreated cells after 48 h. Finally, when DNA binding analysis results were evaluated, it was determined that both polyphenolic compounds did not bind to DNA at the tested time and concentrations and did not cause DNA breaks.
Post‐COVID‐19 maxillary osteonecrosis and floating maxillary teeth due to mucormycosis in two uncontrolled diabetic patients
Authors: Fakhar Mahdi , Zakariaei Zakaria , Sharifpour Ali , Banimostafavi Elham Sadat , Pourmousa Rostam , Soleymani Mostafa , Ghasemi Maryam
Published: March 2022

Mucormycosis is a rare, invasive, quickly progressing fungal infection that generally affects patients who are immunocompromised. If left untreated, the disease is characterized by progressive necrosis and is often fatal. We present two cases of post‐COVID‐19 mucormycosis with a history of several years of uncontrolled diabetic mellitus.
Cyclosporine A therapy of chronic lymphoblastic leukemia‐related pancytopenia: A case report
Authors: Wang Mengying , Meng Ruoyu , Gao Yan , Huang Junxia , Li Tianlan , Mao Chunxia , Liu Shanshan , Xu Yujie , Xu Han , Feng Xianqi
Published: March 2022

To explore the clinical characteristics, diagnosis, and treatment of chronic lymphocytic leukemia with secondary pancytopenia. Here, a case of pancytopenia secondary to chronic lymphocytic leukemia is reported. Additionally, a review of relevant chronic lymphocytic leukemia literature was conducted to summarize its diagnosis, clinical characteristics, treatment history, and experience. After treatment with cyclosporine A, the patient's chronic lymphocytic leukemia continued to resolve, and hematopoiesis returned to normal. Cyclosporine A therapy resulted in improved patient outcomes. However, the mechanism by which cyclosporine A rebuilds the immune microenvironment and its antileukemia effect in the body remains to be studied.
Electrochemical Oxidative ortho‐Selective Trifluoromethylation of N‐Arylamides
Authors: Du Jinze , Gao Di , Zhang Dong , Lin Xinxin , Liu Chengkou , Zhu Ning , Yang Zhao , He Wei , Fang Zheng , Guo Kai
Published: March 2022

A metal‐catalyst‐free and external‐oxidant‐free electrochemical oxidative radical C−H ortho‐trifluoromethylation is presented. The reaction specifically occurred at the ortho‐position of anilides without directing groups. Various anilides showed good tolerance to provide the desired products in moderate to good yields. In addition, the gram‐scale amplified product of benzanilide was obtained with a yield of 64 %, which proved that it has a certain application potential.
Stabilized Coralloid‐like CoP with N,P‐Codoped Carbon Shell on Carbon Paper for Enhanced Sodium Storage
Authors: Li Xueying , Duan Fenyan , Xu Yalin , Lin Yongyuan , Zheng Wenlong , Cao Zhenru , Liu Lei , Zhu Xindong , Deng Miaoran , Dan Yuanyuan , Cheng Xiaofang , Chen Lizhuang
Published: March 2022

The electrode material made by conversion/alloying reaction possesses a high capacity but suffers from serious volumetric variation and pulverization during electrochemical storage cycling of sodium ions. Herein, we designed the coralloid‐like CoP with N,P‐codoped carbon shell on carbon paper derived from a metal‐organic framework shell. The N,P‐codoped carbon shell not only keeps the structural integrity of the nanomaterial but also introduces vacancies on the electrode material to provide abundant coordination of unsaturated sites for sodium storage. The optimized coralloid‐like CoP with N,P‐codoped carbon shell on carbon paper delivers a high reversible capacity of 318.9 mAh g−1 at 200 mA g−1 after 150 cycles. Even when the current density is 1000 mA g−1 after 1000 cycles, it still maintains a high discharge capacity of 191.2 mAh g−1. The electrochemical analysis reveals self‐standing hierarchical structure benefits to the chemical mass diffusion and electron conduction. This work provides a new strategy for the exploitation of advanced anode electrodes with a long life for sodium‐ion batteries.
Transition Metal Doping Induces Ti3+ to Promote the Performance of SrTiO3@TiO2 Visible Light Photocatalytic Reduction of CO2 to Prepare C1 Product.
Authors: Sun Hao , Dong Cunlu , Huang Aijun , Zhan Haijuan , Wang Gang , Liu Wanyi , Ma Baojun , Wang Wei
Published: March 2022

Transition metal Fe, Co, Ni and Cu doped strontium titanate‐rich SrTiO3@TiO2 (STO@T) materials were prepared by hydrothermal method. The prepared doped materials exhibit better photocatalytic CO2 reduction to CH4 ability under visible light conditions. Among them, Fe‐doped and undoped SrTiO3@TiO2 under visible light conditions CO2 reduction products only CO, while M‐STO@T (M=Co, Ni, Cu) samples converted CO2 to CH4. The average methane yield of Ni‐doped STO@T samples are as high as 73.85 μmol g−1 h−1. The production of methane is mainly due to the increase in the response of the doped samples to visible light. And the increase in the separation rate of photogenerated electrons and holes and the efficiency of electron transport caused by the generation of impurity levels. The impurity level caused by Ti3+ plays an important role in the production of methane by CO2 visible light reduction. Ni doping effectively improves the photocatalytic performance of STO@T and CO2 reduction mechanism were explained.
Electrocatalytic CO2Reduction: from Discrete Molecular Catalysts to Their Integrated Catalytic Materials
Authors: Lei Kai , Yu Xia Bao
Published: March 2022

Molecular catalysts (metal complexes), with molecularly defined uniform active sites and atomically precise structural tailorability allowing for regulating catalytic performance through metal‐ and ligand‐centered engineering and elucidating reaction mechanisms via routine photoelectrochemical characterizations, have been increasingly explored for electrocatalytic CO2reduction (ECR). However, their poor stability and low catalytic current density are undesirable for practical applications. Heterogenizing discrete molecular catalysts can potentially surmount these issues, and the resulting integrated catalysts largely share catalytical properties with their discrete molecular counterparts, which bridge the gap between heterogeneous and homogeneous catalysis and combine their advantages. This minireview surveys advances in design and regulation of molecular catalysts such as porphyrin, phthalocyanine, and bipyridine‐based metal complexes and their integrated catalytic materials for selective ECR.
Feasibility and safety of CT‐aided pericardiocentesis from a subxiphoid anterior approach by using fluoroscopy in patients with chronic pericardial effusions
Authors: Iwasaki Yu‐Ki , Fujimoto Yuhi , Ito‐Hagiwara Kanako , Oka Eiichiro , Hayashi Hiroshi , Kubota Yoshiaki , Murata Hiroshige , Yamamoto Teppei , Miyachi Hideki , Tara Shuhei , Tokita Yukichi , Yodogawa Kenji , Yamamoto Takeshi , Takano Hitoshi , Shimizu Wataru
Published: March 2022

Background

Pericardiocentesis is an essential procedure for the diagnosis and treatment of pericardial effusions. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the feasibility and safety of a subxiphoid anterior approach using fluoroscopy aided by a sagittal axis chest computed tomography (CT) view in comparison with an ultrasound‐guided apical approach in patients with chronic pericardial effusion.

Methods

Among 72 consecutive patients (68.8 ± 14.4 years old, 52 males) with hemodynamically stable chronic pericardial effusions, a total of 85 procedures were retrospectively analyzed. We divided them into two groups according to the site of the approach for the pericardiocentesis.

Results

A subxiphoid anterior approach (n = 53) was performed guided by fluoroscopy. The sagittal axis view of the chest CT was constructed to determine the puncture angle and direction for the subxiphoid anterior approach. An apical approach (n = 32) was performed by ultrasound guidance. The success rates of the anterior and apical approaches were 98.1% and 93.8%, respectively. There were two cases with cardiac perforations in the apical approach group, while no cases developed perforations in the subxiphoid anterior approach group.

Conclusion

The subxiphoid anterior approach for pericardiocentesis was feasible and safe for managing chronic pericardial effusions. A reconstruction of the sagittal axis view of the chest CT imaging was helpful to identify the direction and depth to access the pericardial space from the subxiphoid puncture site before the pericardiocentesis using the lateral fluoroscopic view.
Brief report: Cause of death among people discharged from infective endocarditis related hospitalization—West Virginia, 2016–2019
Authors: Dai Zheng , Smith Gordon S. , Hendricks Brian , Bhandari Ruchi
Published: March 2022

Background and Objectives

Compare proportion of all‐cause and cause‐specific mortality among West Virginia Medicaid enrollees who were discharged from infective endocarditis (IE) hospitalization with and without opioid use disorder (OUD) diagnosis.

Methods

The proportions of cause‐specific deaths among those who were discharged from IE‐related hospitalizations were compared by OUD diagnosis.

Results

The top three underlying causes of death discharged from IE hospitalization were accidental drug poisoning, mental and behavioral disorders due to polysubstance use, and cardiovascular diseases. Of the total deaths occurring among patients discharged after IE‐related hospitalization, the proportion has increased seven times from 2016 to 2019 among the OUD deaths while it doubled among the non‐OUD deaths.

Discussion and Conclusions

Of the total deaths occurring among patients discharged after IE‐related hospitalization, the increase is higher in those with OUD diagnosis. OUD is becoming a significantly negative impactor on the survival outcome among IE patients. It is of growing importance to deliver medication for OUD treatment and harm reduction efforts to IE patients in a timely manner, especially as the COVID‐19 pandemic persists.
Existence and Uniqueness of Green's Functions to Nonlinear Yamabe Problems
Authors: Li Yanyan , Nguyen Luc
Published: March 2022

For a given finite subset S of a compact Riemannian manifold (M,g) whose Schouten curvature tensor belongs to a given cone, we establish a necessary and sufficient condition for the existence and uniqueness of a conformal metric on M\S such that each point of S corresponds to an asymptotically flat end and that the Schouten tensor of the conformal metric belongs to the boundary of the given cone. As a by‐product, we define a purely local notion of Ricci lower bounds for continuous metrics that are conformal to smooth metrics and prove a corresponding volume comparison theorem. © 2022 The Authors. Communications on Pure and Applied Mathematics published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Large Deviations for Intersections of Random Walks
Authors: Asselah Asselah , Schapira Bruno
Published: March 2022

We prove a large deviations principle for the number of intersections of two independent infinite‐time ranges in dimension 5 and greater, improving upon the moment bounds of Khanin, Mazel, Shlosman, and Sinaï [9]. This settles, in the discrete setting, a conjecture of van den Berg, Bolthausen, and den Hollander [15], who analyzed this question for the Wiener sausage in the finite‐time horizon. The proof builds on their result (which was adapted in the discrete setting by Phetpradap [12]), and combines it with a series of tools that were developed in recent works of the authors [2, 3, 5]. Moreover, we show that most of the intersection occurs in a single box where both walks realize an occupation density of order 1. © 2022 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Application of deep learning and classical machine learning methods in the diagnosis of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder according to temperament features
Authors: Altun Sinan , Alkan Ahmet , Altun Hatice
Published: March 2022

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common childhood neurodevelopmental disorder with symptoms of attention deficit, hyperactivity and impulsivity, with a prevalence of 8%–12% worldwide. Various studies have revealed that there may be a relationship between ADHD and temperament traits in the etiology of ADHD, which has a multifactorial etiology. According to our knowledge, there is no study in the literature that determines the use of machine learning methods in diagnosing ADHD uses a data set created with temperament characteristics. Different methods were used in this first study. The study included 60 ADHD patients and 60 control group children. The test scores of these children were collected from the Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Kahramanmaraş Sütçü İmam University Medical Faculty, after obtaining the necessary ethics committee permission. ADHD diagnosis was made according to DSM‐5 classification. According to temperament characteristics, the highest classification success in ADHD diagnosis was calculated as 92.5% in decision tree method. Long short term memory (LSTM), one of the deep learning methods, achieved 88% classification success. The success of both methods is quite high and they have been compared with some ADHD classification studies in the literature.
Peptide‐Conjugated Silver Nanoparticles for the Colorimetric Detection of the Oncoprotein Mdm2 in Human Serum
Authors: Retout Maurice , Gosselin Bryan , Mattiuzzi Alice , Ternad Indiana , Jabin Ivan , Bruylants Gilles
Published: March 2022

Invited for this month's cover are the collaborating groups of Prof. Gilles Bruylants and Prof. Ivan Jabin, Université libre de Bruxelles, Belgium. The cover picture shows the principle of a colorimetric sensor, based on peptide‐conjugated silver nanoparticles, for the detection of the cancer biomarker Mdm2. The particles were functionalized via a recently developed strategy based on the use of calixarene diazonium salts. The calixarene‐based coating provides an unprecedented stability to the silver nanoparticles, enabling their use as colorimetric reporters for in vitro diagnostics. The cover was designed by I. Jabin. More information can be found in the Research Article by I. Jabin, G. Bruylants, and co‐workers.
Manganese Cadmium Sulfide Nanoparticles Solid Solution on Cobalt Acid Nickel Nanoflakes: A Robust Photocatalyst for Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Feng Ting , Li Haiyan , Gao Rongjie , Su Ge , Wang Wei , Dong Bohua , Cao Lixin
Published: March 2022

Photocatalytic water splitting for hydrogen evolution is one of the most promising methods to mitigate environmental and energy‐related issues. In this study, manganese cadmium sulfide (MnxCd1‐xS) solid solution is used to construct a p–n heterostructure with NiCo2O4 through a hydrothermal method. The Mn0.25Cd0.75S/NiCo2O4 composites are used for photocatalytic hydrogen evolution reaction, and the optimal hydrogen rate with 40 mg of Mn0.25Cd0.75S/NiCo2O4 40 mg (MCS/NCO 40) is 61159 μmol g−1 h−1, which is about 16.3 times than that of pure Mn0.25Cd0.75S. After combining with NiCo2O4, the light absorption scale, the separation efficiency of photogenerated carriers, and the reaction kinetics are enhanced. Moreover, the band offset of MCS/NCO composites is calculated by the core level alignment method, demonstrating the formation of a p–n heterostructure. The built‐in electric field from the p–n heterostructure drives charge transfer and enhances separation efficiency, which results in improved photocatalytic performance.
Right ventricular–pulmonary artery coupling in cardiac resynchronization therapy: evolution and prognosis
Authors: Stassen Jan , Galloo Xavier , Hirasawa Kensuke , Chimed Surenjav , Marsan Nina Ajmone , Delgado Victoria , van der Bijl Pieter , Bax Jeroen J.
Published: March 2022

Aims

Chronic pressure overload and right ventricular (RV) dysfunction can lead to RV–pulmonary artery (PA) uncoupling in patients with heart failure. The evolution and prognostic values of RV–PA coupling assessed by echocardiography in patients undergoing cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) have not been thoroughly investigated. The aim of this study was to evaluate the evolution and prognostic value of tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE)/pulmonary artery systolic pressure (PASP) ratio in CRT recipients.

Methods and results

The RV–PA coupling was measured non‐invasively with echocardiography using the TAPSE/PASP ratio at baseline and 6 month follow‐up in CRT recipients. The cut‐off value for TAPSE/PASP uncoupling was derived from spline curve analysis (i.e. <0.45 mm/mmHg). The primary endpoint was all‐cause mortality. A total of 807 patients (age 66 ± 11 years, 76% men) were analysed. During a median follow‐up of 97 (54–143) months, 483 (60%) patients died. Survival rates at 3 and 5 year follow‐up were significantly lower for patients with a TAPSE/PASP ratio <0.45 mm/mmHg (76% and 58%, respectively), compared with those with a TAPSE/PASP ratio ≥0.45 mm/mmHg (91% and 82%, respectively) (P < 0.001). On multivariable analysis, TAPSE/PASP ratio <0.45 mm/mmHg (hazard ratio 1.437; 95% confidence interval: 1.145–1.805; P = 0.002) was independently associated with all‐cause mortality, whereas TAPSE <17 mm (hazard ratio 1.237; 95% confidence interval: 0.990–1.546; P = 0.061) was not. In addition, no improvement of the TAPSE/PASP ratio after CRT implantation was independently associated with worse survival.

Conclusions

The TAPSE/PASP ratio at baseline is independently associated with long‐term outcomes in CRT recipients. The baseline TAPSE/PASP ratio has incremental value over TAPSE, which does not take account of RV afterload. A lack of improvement in the TAPSE/PASP ratio after CRT implantation is associated with worse survival.
A standardized definition for right ventricular failure in cardiac surgery patients
Authors: Jabagi Habib , Nantsios Alex , Ruel Marc , Mielniczuk Lisa M. , Denault André Y. , Sun Louise Y.
Published: March 2022

Right ventricular failure (RVF) is a significant cause of mortality and morbidity after cardiac surgery. Despite its prognostic importance, RVF remains under investigated and without a universally accepted definition in the perioperative setting. We foresee that the provision of a standardized perioperative definition for RVF based on practical and objective criteria will help to improve quality of care through early detection and facilitate the generalization of RVF research to advance this field. This article provides an overview of RVF aetiology, pathophysiology, current diagnostic modalities, as well as a summary of existing RVF definitions. This is followed by our proposal for a standardized definition of perioperative RVF, one that captures RV structural and functional abnormalities through a multimodal approach based on anatomical, echocardiographic, and haemodynamic criteria that are readily available in the perioperative setting (Central Image).
Effect of aryl phosphates on toxicity of combustion gases of flame‐retardant polycarbonate/acrylonitrile butadiene styrene blends according to EN 45545 railway standard
Authors: Sánchez Alberto , Villanueva Sara
Published: March 2022

In this study, the toxicity of combustion gases of polycarbonate/acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) blends that include aryl phosphates as flame‐retardants (FRs) was analyzed according to the European railway standard EN 45545‐2 (NBS chamber + FTIR). FRs have a significant influence on the evolution of the toxicity of gases generated during the combustion process. In the experiment, the asphyxiant hydrogen cyanide (HCN) was detected at the beginning of combustion (4 min of testing) as a product of ABS degradation. CO was generated throughout the test (8 min) because of the incomplete combustion of both the ABS and PC fractions. The presence of aryl phosphates promoted the inhibition of the flame. The reaction of PO·radicals in the gas phase resulted in OH·scavenging and a higher release of HCN and CO. The results suggest that aryl phosphates act in the first 4 min and do not have an effect later. FRs with lower thermal stability exhibited lower heat release and flame propagation but generated more toxic gases. This effect is attributed to the higher activity of the flame‐retardant in the gas phase. Further, additional fire performance parameters, including thermal stability (thermogravimetric analysis), flammability (UL94), and heat and smoke generation (cone calorimeter), were studied. It was found that aryl phosphates reduced the fire hazard, prevented the spread of the flame, reduced heat generation, increased the time to ignition, and, at the same time, promoted the emission of toxic gases that differ in function of the selected flame‐retardant.
Does propolis have any effect on rheumatoid arthritis? A review study
Authors: Nattagh‐Eshtivani Elyas , Pahlavani Naseh , Ranjbar Golnaz , Gholizadeh Navashenaq Jamshid , Salehi‐Sahlabadi Ammar , Mahmudiono Trias , Nader Shalaby Mohammed , Jokar Mohammadhassan , Nematy Mohsen , Barghchi Hanieh , Havakhah Shahrzad , Maddahi Mona , Rashidmayvan Mohammad , Khosravi Maryam
Published: March 2022

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease in which inflammation and oxidative stress play a key role in its pathophysiology. Complementary therapies along with medications may be effective in the control of RA. Propolis is a natural substance extracted from beehives, which have confirmed anti‐inflammatory and antioxidant effects. The present study aimed to review the possible effects of propolis on inflammation, oxidative stress, and lipid profile in patients with RA. English articles in online databases such as PubMed‑Medline, AMED, Google Scholar, EMBASE, Scopus, and Web of Science databases were searched. Pieces of evidence show that supplementation with propolis may have therapeutic effects on RA patients. Due to increased inflammation and oxidative stress in the affected joints of RA patients, propolis could inhibit the inflammatory cascades by inhibiting the nuclear factor kappa B pathway and reducing reactive oxygen species, malondialdehyde, and interleukin‐17 by increasing some antioxidants. Therefore, inflammation and pain reduce, helping improve and control RA in patients. Further investigations are required with larger sample sizes and different doses of propolis to demonstrate the definite effects of propolis on various aspects of RA.
Overnight returns of industry exchange‐traded funds, investor sentiment, and futures market returns
Authors: Lee Yun‐Huan , Liao Tzu‐Hsiang , Lee Hsiu‐Chuan
Published: March 2022

This study investigates whether investor sentiment estimated by overnight returns of industry exchange‐traded funds (ETFs) affects Volatility Index (VIX) futures and stock index futures returns. Our empirical results indicate that high overnight returns of industry ETFs are associated with sentiment‐based trading. The results also show that investor sentiment, as measured by the relative comovements of overnight returns of industry ETFs, Granger‐causes VIX futures and stock index futures returns, but not vice versa. Finally, investor sentiment, as measured by the relative comovements, displays statistically and economically significant out‐of‐sample predictive power for VIX futures and stock index futures returns.
Downwind dispersion of CO2 from a major subsea blowout in shallow offshore waters
Authors: Oldenburg Curtis M. , Zhang Yingqi
Published: March 2022

Growing interest in offshore geologic carbon sequestration (GCS) motivates risk assessment of large‐scale subsea CO2 well blowouts or pipeline ruptures. For major leaks of CO2 from wells or pipelines, significant fluxes of CO2 may occur from the sea surface depending on water depth. In the context of risk assessment of human health and safety, we have used previously simulated coupled well‐reservoir and water column model results as a source term for dense gas dispersion of CO2 above the sea surface. The models are linked together by one‐way coupling, that is, output of one model is used as input to the next model. These first‐of‐their‐kind coupled flow results are applicable to assessing the hazard of CO2 to people at and downwind of the sea surface location of emission. Hazard is quantified by plotting the downwind dispersion length (DDL), which we define in the study as the distances from the emission source to the point at which the emitted CO2 has been diluted to 5% and 1.5% in air by volume. Results suggest that large‐scale blowouts in shallow water (10 m) may cause hazardous CO2 plumes extending on the order of several hundred meters downwind. Details of the modeling show DDL has a maximum for windspeed (at an elevation of 10 m) of approximately 5 m/s, with smaller DDL for both weaker and stronger winds. This is explained by the fact that wind favors transport but also causes dispersion; therefore there is a certain wind speed that maximizes DDL. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
When full insurance may not be optimal: The case of restricted substitution
Authors: Jaspersen Johannes G.
Published: March 2022

Even when heavily subsidized, a substantial portion of people choose to forgo purchasing health insurance coverage. In this note, I introduce an explanation for this phenomenon which does not assume choice errors, incorrect beliefs, differently priced uncompensated care, or information asymmetries. When individuals are incapable of freely trading off health and wealth and the initial allocation of goods is suboptimal from their perspective, the standard result of demand for actuarially fair insurance in a single good world does not generalize to the health insurance context. Thus, people might not purchase full health insurance coverage even if it is priced at actuarially fair levels. I argue that this situation is particularly likely to occur in the low‐income population, and hence it is relevant for the achievement of universal health coverage.
Management of oral feeding following total laryngectomy around the world: YO‐IFOS international study
Authors: Benali Johanna , Viljoen Gerrit , Ayad Tareck , Gravier‐Dumonceau Robinson , Ceccon Fabio Pupo , Tangjaturonrasme Napadon , Saibene Alberto Maria , Chiesa‐Estomba Carlos , Melkane Antoine E. , Allen Jacqueline , Lim Chwee Ming , Mayo‐Yañez Miguel , Tucciarone Manuel , Sargi Zoukaa , Mouawad François , Ramirez Adonis Tupac , Magaró Manuel , Michel Justin , Radulesco Thomas , Giovanni Antoine , Fagan Johannes J. , Hao Sheng‐Po , Lechien Jerome R. , Giorgi Roch , Fakhry Nicolas
Published: March 2022

Background

To analyze worldwide practices regarding the initiation of oral feeding after total laryngectomy (TL).

Methods

Online survey.

Results

Among the 332 responses received, 278 from 59 countries were analyzed. Our results showed that 45.6% of respondents started water and 45.1% started liquid diet between postoperative days 7 and 10. Semi‐solid feeds were initiated between days 10 and 14 for 44.9% of respondents and a free diet was allowed after day 15 for 60.8% of respondents. This timing was significantly delayed in cases of laryngo‐pharyngectomy and after prior radiotherapy (p < 0.001). A greater proportion of respondents in Africa and Oceania allowed early oral feeding before day 6 as compared with the rest of the world (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Despite increasing number of publications, there is still a lack of evidence to support early oral feeding. The majority of respondents preferred to delay its initiation until at least 7 days after surgery.
FGF1 Signaling Modulates Biliary Injury and Liver Fibrosis in the Mdr2−/− Mouse Model of Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis
Authors: O’Brien April , Zhou Tianhao , White Tori , Medford Abigail , Chen Lixian , Kyritsi Konstantina , Wu Nan , Childs Jonathan , Stiles Danaleigh , Ceci Ludovica , Chakraborty Sanjukta , Ekser Burcin , Baiocchi Leonardo , Carpino Guido , Gaudio Eugenio , Wu Chaodong , Kennedy Lindsey , Francis Heather , Alpini Gianfranco , Glaser Shannon
Published: March 2022

Fibroblast growth factor 1 (FGF1) belongs to a family of growth factors involved in cellular growth and division. MicroRNA 16 (miR‐16) is a regulator of gene expression, which is dysregulated during liver injury and insult. However, the role of FGF1 in the progression of biliary proliferation, senescence, fibrosis, inflammation, angiogenesis, and its potential interaction with miR‐16, are unknown. In vivo studies were performed in male bile duct–ligated (BDL, 12‐week‐old) mice, multidrug resistance 2 knockout (Mdr2
−/−)
mice (10‐week‐old), and their corresponding controls, treated with recombinant human FGF1 (rhFGF1), fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR) antagonist (AZD4547), or anti‐FGF1 monoclonal antibody (mAb). In vitro, the human cholangiocyte cell line (H69) and human hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) were used to determine the expression of proliferation, fibrosis, angiogenesis, and inflammatory genes following rhFGF1 treatment. PSC patient and control livers were used to evaluate FGF1 and miR‐16 expression. Intrahepatic bile duct mass (IBDM), along with hepatic fibrosis and inflammation, increased in BDL mice treated with rhFGF1, with a corresponding decrease in miR‐16, while treatment with AZD4547 or anti‐FGF1 mAb decreased hepatic fibrosis, IBDM, and inflammation in BDL and Mdr2
−/−
mice. In vitro, H69 and HSCs treated with rhFGF1 had increased expression of proliferation, fibrosis, and inflammatory markers. PSC samples also showed increased FGF1 and FGFRs with corresponding decreases in miR‐16 compared with healthy controls. Conclusion: Our study demonstrates that suppression of FGF1 and miR‐16 signaling decreases the presence of hepatic fibrosis, biliary proliferation, inflammation, senescence, and angiogenesis. Targeting the FGF1 and miR‐16 axis may provide therapeutic options in treating cholangiopathies such as PSC.
Content analysis of responses to The Line, an Australian primary prevention of violence against women campaign on Facebook
Authors: Molnar Lena , Hendry Natalie A.
Published: March 2022

Issue addressed

Primary prevention of violence against women (PVAW) strategies and campaigns aim to address and challenge violence‐supportive behaviour and normative social structures to intervene before violence happens. Towards this aim, from 2014 to 2019, The Line was a public Australian Commonwealth‐supported PVAW campaign on social media that targeted young people. This study explores how young people discussed PVAW‐related themes on the campaign's Facebook page.

Methods

Social media scraping tools were used to collect 346 941 comments on The Line's Facebook page from 2014 to 2017. In this study, 3663 comments included three high frequency, PVAW‐related key terms, ‘violence’ (1430 comments), ‘gender’ (1602 comments) and ‘consent’ (631 comments). These were identified and were thematically coded.

Results

Young people's comments indicated high support for violence prevention but varied in how they understood gendered violence and factors that contribute to it, and instead, some argued that the campaign should not ignore men. Some young people who engaged with The Line on a long‐term basis and spoke to its aims, proposed interpretations from their experiences, and challenged the campaign to progress.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that young people influence each other by adopting and disrupting PVAW knowledge in a publicly funded social media campaign.

So what?

Public PVAW social media campaigns can encourage young people to discuss gendered violence online. However, successful campaigns need ongoing support to develop conversations with target populations that allow diverse audiences to build their knowledge.