bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Expression of ANK3 moderates the association between childhood trauma and affective traits in severe mental disorders
Authors: Aas Monica , Andreassen Ole A. , Gjerstad Johannes , Rødevand Linn , Hjell Gabriela , Johansen Ingrid Torp , Lunding Synve Hoffart , Ormerod Monica B. E. G. , Lagerverg Trine V. , Steen Nils Eiel , Djurovic Srdjan , Akkouh Ibrahim
Published: August 2023

Exposure to early life trauma increases the risk of psychopathology later in life. Here we investigated if ANK3 mRNA levels influence the relationship between childhood trauma experiences and clinical characteristics in mental disorders. A sample of 174 patients with bipolar disorder and 291 patients with schizophrenia spectrum disorder were included. Patients were diagnosed using the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV, and childhood trauma was assessed using the childhood trauma questionnaire. Age at illness onset and number of psychotic and affective episodes were assessed from interview and medical records. Current depressive symptoms were measured using the calgary depression scale for schizophrenia and the inventory for depressive symptomatology. ANK3 expression was analyzed in whole blood using the Illumina HumanHT-12 v4 Expression BeadChip. Analyses were carried out with the Process adjusted for confounders. Within the total sample, patients with both high ANK3 expression and with the most severe childhood sexual abuse had more manic/hypomanic episodes and an earlier age at onset of the first episode. ANK3 mRNA levels also moderated the relationship between emotional neglect and manic/hypomanic episodes. Our results suggest that ANK3 expression levels moderate the association between specific types of childhood trauma and affective traits in mental disorders.
Spatiotemporal patterns of spontaneous movement in neonates are significantly linked to risk of autism spectrum disorders at 18 months old
Authors: Doi Hirokazu , Furui Akira , Ueda Rena , Shimatani Koji , Yamamoto Midori , Sakurai Kenichi , Mori Chisato , Tsuji Toshio
Published: August 2023

Infants make spontaneous movements from the prenatal period. Several studies indicate that an atypical pattern of body motion during infancy could be utilized as an early biomarker of autism spectrum disorders (ASD). However, to date, little is known about whether the body motion pattern in neonates is associated with ASD risk. The present study sought to clarify this point by examining, in a longitudinal design, the link between features of spontaneous movement at about two days after birth and ASD risk evaluated using the Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers by their caregivers at 18 months old. The body movement features were quantified by a recently developed markerless system of infant body motion analysis. Logistic regression analysis revealed that ASD risk at 18 months old is associated with the pattern of spontaneous movement at the neonatal stage. Further, logistic regression based on body movement features during sleep shows better performance in classifying high- and low-risk infants than during the awake state. These findings raise the possibility that early signs of ASD risk may emerge at a developmental stage far earlier than previously thought.
Development of a three-dimensional organoid model to explore early retinal phenotypes associated with Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Lavekar Sailee S. , Harkin Jade , Hernandez Melody , Gomes Cátia , Patil Shruti , Huang Kang-Chieh , Puntambekar Shweta S. , Lamb Bruce T. , Meyer Jason S.
Published: August 2023

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the accumulation of Aβ plaques and neurofibrillary tangles, resulting in synaptic loss and neurodegeneration. The retina is an extension of the central nervous system within the eye, sharing many structural similarities with the brain, and previous studies have observed AD-related phenotypes within the retina. Three-dimensional retinal organoids differentiated from human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) can effectively model some of the earliest manifestations of disease states, yet early AD-associated phenotypes have not yet been examined. Thus, the current study focused upon the differentiation of hPSCs into retinal organoids for the analysis of early AD-associated alterations. Results demonstrated the robust differentiation of retinal organoids from both familial AD and unaffected control cell lines, with familial AD retinal organoids exhibiting a significant increase in the Aβ42:Aβ40 ratio as well as phosphorylated Tau protein, characteristic of AD pathology. Further, transcriptional analyses demonstrated the differential expression of many genes and cellular pathways, including those associated with synaptic dysfunction. Taken together, the current study demonstrates the ability of retinal organoids to serve as a powerful model for the identification of some of the earliest retinal alterations associated with AD.
Belatacept inhibit human B cell germinal center development in immunodeficient mice
Authors: Samson Chloé , Thiolat Allan , Moktefi Anissa , Cohen José L. , Pilon Caroline , Grimbert Philippe
Published: August 2023

The humoral response mediated by alloantibodies directed against donor HLA molecules (DSAs) is one of the main causes of graft loss in kidney transplantation. Understanding the pathophysiology leading to humoral kidney rejection as the development of therapeutic tools is therefore a main objective in the field of solid organ transplantation and necessitate adapted experimental models. Among the immunosuppressive agents used in renal transplantation, belatacept, a fusion protein targeting T costimulatory molecules has shown its ability to prevent more efficiently the secretion of DSA by different mechanisms including a direct action on plasma cells but also on B lymphocytes and follicular helper T lymphocytes (Tfh) cooperation. This cellular cooperation occurs within germinal centers (GC), the seat of B lymphocytes differentiation. Here, we aimed to develop a dedicated mouse model in which human GC would be functional to study the effect of belatacept on GC formation and the ability of B lymphocytes to secrete immunoglobulin. We next demonstrate that belatacept inhibits the formation of these GCs, by inhibiting the frequency of Tfh and B lymphocytes. This alters the B maturation and therefore the generation of plasma cells and consequently, immunoglobulin secretion.
The understanding of the impact of efficiently optimized underlap length on analog/RF performance parameters of GNR-FETs
Authors: Ahmad Md Akram , Kumar Jitendra
Published: August 2023

The aim of this study is to examine the analog/RF performance characteristics of graphene nanoribbon (GNR) field-effect transistors (FETs) using a novel technique called underlap engineering. The study employs self-consistent atomistic simulations and the non-equilibrium Green's function (NEGF) formalism. Initially, the optimal underlap length for the GNR-FET by device has been determined evaluating the ON-current (ION) to OFF-current (IOFF) ratio, which is a critical parameter for digital applications. Subsequently, the impact of underlap engineering on analog/RF performance metrics has been analyzed and conducting a comprehensive trade-off analysis considering parameters such as intrinsic-gain, transistor efficiency, and device cut-off frequency. The results demonstrate that the device incorporating the underlap mechanism exhibits superior performance in terms of the ION/IOFF ratio, transconductance generation factor (TGF), output resistance (r0), intrinsic gain (gmr0), gain frequency product (GFP), and gain transfer frequency product (GTFP). However, the device without the underlap effect demonstrates the highest transconductance (gm) and cut-off frequency (fT). Finally, a linearity analysis has been conducted to compare the optimized GNR-FET device with the conventional GNR-FET device without the underlap effect.
Using machine learning to predict protein–protein interactions between a zombie ant fungus and its carpenter ant host
Authors: Will Ian , Beckerson William C. , de Bekker Charissa
Published: August 2023

Parasitic fungi produce proteins that modulate virulence, alter host physiology, and trigger host responses. These proteins, classified as a type of “effector,” often act via protein–protein interactions (PPIs). The fungal parasite Ophiocordyceps camponoti-floridani (zombie ant fungus) manipulates Camponotus floridanus (carpenter ant) behavior to promote transmission. The most striking aspect of this behavioral change is a summit disease phenotype where infected hosts ascend and attach to an elevated position. Plausibly, interspecific PPIs drive aspects of Ophiocordyceps infection and host manipulation. Machine learning PPI predictions offer high-throughput methods to produce mechanistic hypotheses on how this behavioral manipulation occurs. Using D-SCRIPT to predict host–parasite PPIs, we found ca. 6000 interactions involving 2083 host proteins and 129 parasite proteins, which are encoded by genes upregulated during manipulated behavior. We identified multiple overrepresentations of functional annotations among these proteins. The strongest signals in the host highlighted neuromodulatory G-protein coupled receptors and oxidation–reduction processes. We also detected Camponotus structural and gene-regulatory proteins. In the parasite, we found enrichment of Ophiocordyceps proteases and frequent involvement of novel small secreted proteins with unknown functions. From these results, we provide new hypotheses on potential parasite effectors and host targets underlying zombie ant behavioral manipulation.
Deciphering phenotyping, DNA barcoding, and RNA secondary structure predictions in eggplant wild relatives provide insights for their future breeding strategies
Authors: Mohanty Sansuta , Mishra Bandana Kumari , Dasgupta Madhumita , Acharya Gobinda Chandra , Singh Satyapriya , Naresh Ponnam , Bhue Shyamlal , Dixit Anshuman , Sarkar Arup , Sahoo Manas Ranjan
Published: August 2023

Eggplant or aubergine (Solanum melongena L.) and its wild cousins, comprising 13 clades with 1500 species, have an unprecedented demand across the globe. Cultivated eggplant has a narrow molecular diversity that hinders eggplant breeding advancements. Wild eggplants need resurgent attention to broaden eggplant breeding resources. In this study, we emphasized phenotypic and genotypic discriminations among 13 eggplant species deploying chloroplast–plastid (Kim matK) and nuclear (ITS2) short gene sequences (400–800 bp) at DNA barcode region followed by ITS2 secondary structure predictions. The identification efficiency at the Kim matK region was higher (99–100%) than in the ITS2 region (80–90%). The eggplant species showed 13 unique secondary structures with a central ring with various helical orientations. Principal component analysis (PCoA) provides the descriptor–wise phenotypic clustering, which is essential for trait–specific breeding. Groups I and IV are categorized under scarlet complexes S. aethiopicum, S. trilobatum, and S. melongena (wild and cultivated). Group II represented the gboma clade (S. macrocarpon, S. wrightii, S. sisymbriifolium, and S. aculeatissimum), and group III includes S. mammosum, and S. torvum with unique fruit shape and size. The present study would be helpful in genetic discrimination, biodiversity conservation, and the safe utilization of wild eggplants.
Hierarchical automated machine learning (AutoML) for advanced unconventional reservoir characterization
Authors: Mubarak Yousef , Koeshidayatullah Ardiansyah
Published: August 2023

Recent advances in machine learning (ML) have transformed the landscape of energy exploration, including hydrocarbon, CO2 storage, and hydrogen. However, building competent ML models for reservoir characterization necessitates specific in-depth knowledge in order to fine-tune the models and achieve the best predictions, limiting the accessibility of machine learning in geosciences. To mitigate this issue, we implemented the recently emerged automated machine learning (AutoML) approach to perform an algorithm search for conducting an unconventional reservoir characterization with a more optimized and accessible workflow than traditional ML approaches. In this study, over 1000 wells from Alberta’s Athabasca Oil Sands were analyzed to predict various key reservoir properties such as lithofacies, porosity, volume of shale, and bitumen mass percentage. Our proposed workflow consists of two stages of AutoML predictions, including (1) the first stage focuses on predicting the volume of shale and porosity by using conventional well log data, and (2) the second stage combines the predicted outputs with well log data to predict the lithofacies and bitumen percentage. The findings show that out of the ten different models tested for predicting the porosity (78% in accuracy), the volume of shale (80.5%), bitumen percentage (67.3%), and lithofacies classification (98%), distributed random forest, and gradient boosting machine emerged as the best models. When compared to the manually fine-tuned conventional machine learning algorithms, the AutoML-based algorithms provide a notable improvement on reservoir property predictions, with higher weighted average f1-scores of up to 15–20% in the classification problem and 5–10% in the adjusted-R2 score for the regression problems in the blind test dataset, and it is achieved only after ~ 400 s of training and testing processes. In addition, from the feature ranking extraction technique, there is a good agreement with domain experts regarding the most significant input parameters in each prediction. Therefore, it is evidence that the AutoML workflow has proven powerful in performing advanced petrophysical analysis and reservoir characterization with minimal time and human intervention, allowing more accessibility to domain experts while maintaining the model’s explainability. Integration of AutoML and subject matter experts could advance artificial intelligence technology implementation in optimizing data-driven energy geosciences.
Identification of glutathione metabolic genes from a dimorphic fungus Talaromyces marneffei and their gene expression patterns under different environmental conditions
Authors: Wangsanut Tanaporn , Sukantamala Panwarit , Pongpom Monsicha
Published: August 2023

Talaromyces marneffei is a human fungal pathogen that causes endemic opportunistic infections, especially in Southeast Asia. The key virulence factors of T. marneffei are the ability to survive host-derived heat and oxidative stress, and the ability to convert morphology from environmental mold to fission yeast forms during infection. Glutathione metabolism plays an essential role in stress response and cellular development in multiple organisms. However, the role of the glutathione system in T. marneffei is elusive. Here, we identified the genes encoding principal enzymes associated with glutathione metabolism in T. marneffei, including glutathione biosynthetic enzymes (Gcs1 and Gcs2), glutathione peroxidase (Gpx1), glutathione reductase (Glr1), and a family of glutathione S-transferase (Gst). Sequence homology search revealed an extended family of the TmGst proteins, consisting of 20 TmGsts that could be divided into several classes. Expression analysis revealed that cells in conidia, mold, and yeast phases exhibited distinct expression profiles of glutathione-related genes. Also, TmGst genes were highly upregulated in response to hydrogen peroxide and xenobiotic exposure. Altogether, our findings suggest that T. marneffei transcriptionally regulates the glutathione genes under stress conditions in a cell-type-specific manner. This study could aid in understanding the role of glutathione in thermal-induced dimorphism and stress response.
Exploring the spatio-temporal clusters of closed restaurants after the COVID-19 outbreak in Seoul using relative risk surfaces
Authors: Park Sungjae , Seo Hyunil , Koo Hyeongmo
Published: August 2023

This study explores the clusters of closed restaurants in Seoul in response to the COVID-19 pandemic using the relative risk surface (RRS). The RRS developed based on kernel density estimation provides alternative perspectives for finding the cluster by combining different control and case events. Specifically, the varying impacts on diverse types of restaurants are examined by comparing the densities of closed casual restaurants and cafes. The clusters of closed businesses following the COVID-19 outbreak are subsequently explored through a comparison of the densities of the closed businesses preceding the outbreak. Furthermore, this analysis estimates the clusters of declined commercial areas after the pandemic outbreak based on the comparison between the densities of opened and closed restaurants. Finally, the specific time and region of the clusters are explored using space–time RRS. The analysis results effectively demonstrate various aspects of the closed restaurant clusters. For example, in the central business areas, the densities of closed cafes have decreased after the pandemic outbreak, and the density of closed cafes is significantly higher than that of opened cafes. This study would contribute to the literature on spatial data analysis and urban policy support in response to future epidemics.
Enhanced photocatalytic and antibacterial activities of novel Ag-HA bioceramic nanocatalyst for waste-water treatment
Authors: Elbasuney Sherif , El-Khawaga Ahmed M. , Elsayed Mohamed A. , Elsaidy Amir , Correa-Duarte Miguel A.
Published: August 2023

Hydroxyapatite (HA), the most common bioceramic material, offers attractive properties as a catalyst support. Highly crystalline mono-dispersed silver doped hydroxyapatite (Ag-HA) nanorods of 60 nm length was developed via hydrothermal processing. Silver dopant offered enhanced chemisorption for crystal violet (CV) contaminant. Silver was found to intensify negative charge on the catalyst surface; in this regard enhanced chemisorption of positively charged contaminants was accomplished. Silver dopant experienced decrease in the binding energy of valence electron for oxygen, calcium, and phosphorous using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy XPS/ESCA; this finding could promote electron–hole generation and light absorption. Removal efficiency of Ag-HA nanocomposite for CV reached 88% after the synergistic effect with 1.0 mM H2O2; silver dopant could initiate H2O2 cleavage and intensify the release of active ȮH radicals. Whereas HA suffers from lack of microbial resistance; Ag-HA nanocomposite demonstrated high activity against Gram-positive (S. aureus) bacteria with zone of inhibition (ZOI) mm value of 18.0 mm, and high biofilm inhibition of 91.1%. Ag-HA nanocompsite experienced distinctive characerisitcs for utilization as green bioceramic photocatalyst for wastewater treatment.
Development and validation of a questionnaire for assessing parents’ health literacy regarding vision screening for children: a Delphi study
Authors: Ravid-Saffir Ahuva , Sella Shulamit , Ben-Eli Hadas
Published: August 2023

Preschool vision screening is recommended to reduce the incidence of amblyopia that persists into adulthood. However, parent’s perceptions regarding the importance of screening and early intervention may constitute a significant barrier to seeking vision exams and pursuing treatment. The aim of this study is to develop and validate a questionnaire for assessing parent’s awareness, perception and health literacy of children's vision tests. The questionnaire was developed using the Delphi method with experts from the fields of pediatric ophthalmology, optometry, orthoptics, pediatric medicine, social sciences and Mother and Child Health Care centers. Experts were provided with drafts of the questions iteratively in three rounds until a consensus was reached independently on the relevant items, coherently language and redundancies. For the first, second and third stages of the Delphi process, 17, 15 and 13 experts participated in the panel respectively. Validity was achieved by wide consensus among the panel on the relevance of each question, of 75%, 85% and 90%, for the three rounds respectively. Here we describe the final questionnaire, EYES: Evaluating Young-Children Eye health Survey, which includes 31 questions regarding demographics, ocular history, parental health literacy, and perceptions of vision and vison exams.
Methodological challenges and new perspectives of shifting vegetation phenology in eddy covariance data
Authors: Panwar Annu , Migliavacca Mirco , Nelson Jacob A. , Cortés José , Bastos Ana , Forkel Matthias , Winkler Alexander J.
Published: August 2023

While numerous studies report shifts in vegetation phenology, in this regard eddy covariance (EC) data, despite its continuous high-frequency observations, still requires further exploration. Furthermore, there is no general consensus on optimal methodologies for data smoothing and extracting phenological transition dates (PTDs). Here, we revisit existing methodologies and present new prospects to investigate phenological changes in gross primary productivity (GPP) from EC measurements. First, we present a smoothing technique of GPP time series through the derivative of its smoothed annual cumulative sum. Second, we calculate PTDs and their trends from a commonly used threshold method that identifies days with a fixed percentage of the annual maximum GPP. A systematic analysis is performed for various thresholds ranging from 0.1 to 0.7. Lastly, we examine the relation of PTDs trends to trends in GPP across the years on a weekly basis. Results from 47 EC sites with long time series (> 10 years) show that advancing trends in start of season (SOS) are strongest at lower thresholds but for the end of season (EOS) at higher thresholds. Moreover, the trends are variable at different thresholds for individual vegetation types and individual sites, outlining reasonable concerns on using a single threshold value. Relationship of trends in PTDs and weekly GPP reveal association of advanced SOS and delayed EOS to increase in immediate primary productivity, but not to the trends in overall seasonal productivity. Drawing on these analyses, we emphasise on abstaining from subjective choices and investigating relationship of PTDs trend to finer temporal trends of GPP. Our study examines existing methodological challenges and presents approaches that optimize the use of EC data in identifying vegetation phenological changes and their relation to carbon uptake.
Anti-inflammation-based treatment of atherosclerosis using Gliclazide-loaded biomimetic nanoghosts
Authors: Karami Zahra , Mehrzad Jalil , Akrami Mohammad , Hosseinkhani Saman
Published: August 2023

In the study, a biomimetic platform for anti-inflammatory-based treatment of atherosclerotic plaque was developed. Gliclazide (GL) as an anti-inflammasome agent was encapsulated in PLGA nanoparticles (NP), which were coated by monocyte membrane using an extrusion procedure. The size and zeta potential of the nanoghost (NG) changed to 292 and – 10 nm from 189.5 to −34.1 in the core NP. In addition, the actual size of 62.5 nm with a coating layer of 5 nm was measured using TEM. The NG was also showed a sustained release profile with the drug loading content of about 4.7%. Beside to attenuated TNFα, decrease in gene expression levels of NLRP3, MyD88, NOS, IL-1β, IL-18 and caspases 1/3/8/9 in LPS-primed monocytes exposed to NG strongly indicated remarkable inflammation control. After systemic toxicity evaluation and pharmacokinetic analysis of NP and NG, intravenous NG treatment of rabbits with experimentally induced atherosclerosis revealed remarkably less plaque lesions, foam cells, lipid-laden macrophages, and pathological issues in tunica media of aorta sections. Higher expression of CD163 than CD68 in aorta of NG-treated rabbits strongly reveals higher M2/M1 macrophage polarization. The bio/hemocompatible, biomimetic and anti-inflammatory NG can be considered as a potential platform for immunotherapy of particularly atherosclerosis in the field of personalized medicine.
Correction: Increasing ion yield circular dichroism in femtosecond photoionisation using optimal control theory
Authors: Mondelo-Martell Manel , Kerber Leon A. , Basilewitsch Daniel , Braun Hendrike , Koch Christiane P. , Reich Daniel M.
Published: August 2023

Correction for ‘Increasing ion yield circular dichroism in femtosecond photoionisation using optimal control theory’ by Manel Mondelo-Martell et al., Phys. Chem. Chem. Phys., 2022, 24, 9286–9297, https://doi.org/10.1039/D1CP05239J.
Entropic influence on the generation of Fe(iv)O species at mononuclear Fe(ii) sites in metal–organic frameworks
Authors: Saiz Fernan , Bernasconi Leonardo
Published: August 2023

We study the oxidation of mononuclear Fe(ii) centers in MOF-74 in the presence of nitric oxide, nitrogen dioxide, nitrous oxide, dinitrous dioxide, oxygen, ozone, and hydrogen peroxide using static density-functional theory calculations and ab initio molecular dynamics simulations.
Investigation of HO2uptake onto Cu(ii)- and Fe(ii)-doped aqueous inorganic aerosols and seawater aerosols using laser spectroscopic techniques
Authors: Li Jiaru , Sakamoto Yosuke , Sato Kei , Morino Yu , Kajii Yoshizumi
Published: August 2023

This work establishes the determination of the uptake coefficient of HO2onto a series of inorganic aerosols by LP-LIF.
N-Acetylglucosamine and its dimer ameliorate inflammation in murine colitis by strengthening the gut barrier function
Authors: Choi Sung-In , Shin Young Chul , Lee Joong Su , Yoon Yeo Cho , Kim Ju Myung , Sung Mi-Kyung
Published: August 2023

Roles of NAG and NAG-D in mitigating intestinal inflammation by enhancing gut barrier function and preserving gut microbiota homeostasis.
Impact of polyphenol oxidase on the bioavailability of flavan-3-ols in fruit smoothies: a controlled, single blinded, cross-over study
Authors: Ottaviani Javier I. , Ensunsa Jodi L. , Fong Reedmond Y. , Kimball Jennifer , Medici Valentina , Kuhnle Gunter G. C. , Crozier Alan , Schroeter Hagen , Kwik-Uribe Catherine
Published: August 2023

Flavan-3-ols are important dietary bioactives. While fruits are significant sources of these compounds, fruit smoothies, particularly those with high levels of polyphenol oxidase, do not represent a viable option to increase flavan-3-ol intake.
Design and screening of B–N functionalized non-fullerene acceptors for organic solar cells via multiscale computation
Authors: Khatua Rudranarayan , Mondal Anirban
Published: August 2023

Multiscale computation driven molecular engineering of small molecule non-fullerene acceptors for organic solar cells.
Correction: Describing the adsorption of doxorubicin on a PAMAM dendrimer by ab initio calculations
Authors: de Oliveira Sobrinho Handriela Hoff , Eising Renato , Wrasse Ernesto Osvaldo
Published: August 2023

Correction for ‘Describing the adsorption of doxorubicin on a PAMAM dendrimer by ab initio calculations’ by Handriela Hoff de Oliveira Sobrinho et al., Mol. Syst. Des. Eng., 2023, https://doi.org/10.1039/d3me00060e.
Variable temperature in situ TEM mapping of the thermodynamically stable element distribution in bimetallic Pt–Rh nanoparticles
Authors: Jensen Martin , Kierulf-Vieira Walace , Kooyman Patricia J. , Sjåstad Anja O.
Published: August 2023

Variable temperature in situ transmission electron microscopy (TEM) study to unravel the thermodynamically stable element distribution in Pt–Rh nanoparticles under vacuum.
The effect of heteroatoms at end groups of anthracene derivatives on the photoelectric properties and crystal/film morphology: a theoretical perspective
Authors: Qin Gui-Ya , Sun Xiao-Qi , Lin Pan-Pan , Wei Xue , Guo Jing-Fu , Cui Wei-Bo , Fan Jian-Xun , Li Hui , Zou Lu-Yi , Ren Ai-min
Published: August 2023

Introducing heteroatoms at end group of anthracene derivatives can result in excellent charge transport, fluorescence properties and different growth morphologies. The growth ratios for in-plane crystal facet are reproduced well by AE model.
Interfacial modification via aniline molecules with multiple active sites for performance enhancement of n–i–p perovskite solar cells
Authors: An Zhiquan , Chen Siying , Lu Tao , Zhao Pengjun , Yang Xiaodong , Li Yang , Hou Juan
Published: August 2023

The ANE molecule has a chemical interaction with the perovskite and SnO2 film, both reducing the oxygen vacancy defects in the SnO2 film and passivating the uncoordinated Pb2+, significantly reducing the interface defects and effectively suppressing the non-radiative recombination.
Pediatric Hearing Aid Management: Experiences and Perspectives of Spanish-Speaking Parents
Authors: Muñoz Karen , Guillen Diego , Muñoz Carlos , Twohig Michael P.
Published: August 2023

Purpose:

The purpose of the study was twofold: (a) to explore hearing aid management experiences of Spanish-speaking parents who have young children using hearing aids and (b) to explore parents' access to the Internet and perceptions about remote audiology services.

Method:

The study used a mixed methods design. Data were collected through a phone interview.

Results:

Eleven mothers of children aged 14–60 months participated. Most of the children (9/11) had a bilateral hearing loss, and two had an additional disability. Three themes emerged for hearing aid management experiences: audiology services, routines, and emotional challenges/supports. Parents had variable levels of confidence in their skills ranging from no confidence to complete confidence, with the greatest variability for three items: (a) using the listening tube to make sure that the sound quality of the hearing aid is good, (b) removing moisture from the earmold tubing, and (c) troubleshooting problems when your child's hearing aids are not working. All participants reported having consistent Internet access and had positive perceptions about the possibility of remote audiology services.

Conclusions:

This study provided insights into hearing aid management experiences and perceptions of Spanish-speaking parents. Parents described variability for audiology services, routines for hearing aid use and care, and access to other parents of children with hearing loss. Spanish-speaking parents present additional elements in the hearing care process that need to be incorporated in planning. Remote services may be an opportunity to enhance access to support that could improve effectiveness of hearing aid management.
Prosodic Focus Interpretation in Spectrotemporally Degraded Speech by Non-Native Listeners
Authors: Everhardt Marita K. , Sarampalis Anastasios , Coler Matt , Başkent Deniz , Lowie Wander
Published: August 2023

Purpose:

This study assesses how spectrotemporal degradations that can occur in the sound transmission of a cochlear implant (CI) may influence the ability of non-native listeners to recognize the intended meaning of utterances based on the position of the prosodically focused word. Previous research suggests that perceptual accuracy and listening effort are negatively affected by CI processing (or CI simulations) or when the speech is presented in a non-native language, in a number of tasks and circumstances. How these two factors interact to affect prosodic focus interpretation, however, remains unclear.

Method:

In an online experiment, normal-hearing (NH) adolescent and adult native Dutch learners of English and a small control group of NH native English adolescents listened to CI-simulated (eight-channel noise-band vocoded) and non–CI-simulated English sentences differing in prosodically marked focus. For assessing perceptual accuracy, listeners had to indicate which of four possible context questions the speaker answered. For assessing listening effort, a dual-task paradigm was used with a secondary free recall task.

Results:

The results indicated that prosodic focus interpretation was significantly less accurate in the CI-simulated condition compared with the non–CI-simulated condition but that listening effort was not increased. Moreover, there was no interaction between the influence of the degraded CI-simulated speech signal and listening groups in either their perceptual accuracy or listening effort.

Conclusion:

Non-native listeners are not more strongly affected by spectrotemporal degradations than native listeners, and less proficient non-native listeners are not more strongly affected by these degradations than more proficient non-native listeners.
Warming Characteristics of a Dual Reservoir Cooler/Heater Unit
Authors: Walton Howard G. , Jerabek Charles F. , Sugden Ernest H.
Published: August 2023

A study of the Hematherm model 400 dual reservoir cooler/heater was undertaken to determine whether warming times are affected by running both the oxygenator heat exchanger and the warming blanket from a single warming source. Forty patients were divided into two groups of twenty each. Group A patients were warmed to 37°C using only the heat exchanger of the oxygenator. Group B patients were warmed using the oxygenator's heat exchanger and blanket simultaneously at the initiation of warming. There was no statistical difference between the two groups with regards to the patient's body weights, B.S.A.'s and bypass times. Group A showed a significantly faster rise in both arterial and venous blood temperatures. There was no statistical difference demonstrated for the rise in esophageal, bladder or the Hematherm model 400 unit temperatures. The heating blanket did not contribute to the warming of the patient. Using the data obtained from this study, a formula based on the rise in temperature corrected for B.S.A. was developed to predict the total time needed to warm any patient.
Use of the Cell Saver as a Rapid Infusion Device
Authors: Johnson Howard D. , Morgan Marc S. , Utley Joe R.
Published: August 2023

A Bio-Medicus pump with a model BP 80, flow probe, model DP 38, and Gott TDMAC Shunt tubing, primed with Plasma Lyte A, pH 7.4, was used during a repair of a descending aortic aneurysm. The Haemonetic Cell Saver Plus with 1/4" tubing, List #243, and Gish Cardiotomy ATR-2900F was used to process shed blood.

The patient was heparinized with 31,000 units of beef lung heparin (400 units/Kg) to maintain the activated clotting time above 480 seconds. The aneurysm was opened. Collateral bleeding caused the patient to bleed out excessively into the cell saver, rendering the Bio-Pump ineffective due to severe hypovolemia. As the bleeding was controlled, the cell saver was connected to the Gott TDMAC shunt tubing with a 1/4" X 3/8" connector to autotransfuse shed blood from the cardiotomy back to the patient, bypassing the cell saver centrifuge.

The aortic cross clamp time was 22 minutes. The patient suffered no complications and at the 12 month follow up, she continues to do well. In summary, we feel that the surgical team should be equipped to provide ancillary support as the situation requires.
Preservation of Neonatal Myocardial Function Following Ischemic Arrest
Authors: Stammers Alfred H. , Bove Edward L. , Veit Linda J.
Published: August 2023

The protection of the ischemic neonatal myocardium was studied utilizing both cardioplegic and noncardioplegic solutions. Six groups of seven-day-old isolated working rabbit hearts, exposed to 120 minutes of hypothermic (30°C) arrest, were treated with either an oxygenated or nonoxygenated cardioplegic or physiologic saline solution. The results indicated that postischemic aortic flow, stroke volume and cardiac output were significantly depressed in all oxygenated groups, but not in the nonoxygenated cardioplegic groups. Recovery of cardiac output remained near baseline in hearts treated with either single dose (94.4±2.5% mean±SEM) or multidose (94.3±2.3%) nonoxygenated cardioplegia, but was significantly depressed in multidose oxygenated cardioplegia (76.2±6.2%), multidose oxygenated physiological saline (74.8±3.0%), and single dose physiological saline (74.8±3.0%), all at p<05. Coronary sinus creatine kinase was significantly elevated during ischemia in all physiological saline groups as well as the multidose oxygenated cardioplegia group, and remained elevated following reperfusion. In the nonoxygenated cardioplegic groups, creatine kinase was not elevated. This study has demonstrated that the addition of oxygen to either cardioplegic or noncardioplegic physiological saline solutions failed to protect the neonatal myocardium from ischemic or reperfusion related injury.
Percutaneous Cardiopulmonary (Bypass) Support in the Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory: A New Application of Perfusion
Authors: Lowinger Terry , Shawl Fayaz , Diffee Glenn , Richmond Jerry
Published: August 2023

Percutaneous cardiopulmonary bypass support (PCPS) has been introduced in the catheterization laboratory to support high risk coronary angioplasty, as well as emergencies. We report the safety and feasibility of PCPS in 45 patients. Thirty-seven patients (Group 1) were elective and eight were emergencies (Group 2). Group 1 (ages 41-82) were high risk coronary angioplasty, Group 2 (ages 40-82) were in cardiogenic shock due to myocardial infarction with two in cardiac arrest. Cannulation of femoral artery and vein was with 20 French cannulae. Priming of the system with 1400 ml of Normosol was achieved in 5-7 minutes. Cardiopulmonary bypass was then instituted using the Bard CPS system after full heparinization (300 units per kilogram). Flows ranged from 2.8-5.5 liters per minute (mean-3.8) and pulmonary diastolic pressures were 0-4 mm Hg. Two patients in cardiac arrest regained consciousness while still in ventricular fibrillation or asystole. The activated clotting time ranged from 317-880 seconds (mean=498). Mean bypass time was 37 minutes (range 10-73) in Group 1 and 66 minutes (range 44-120) in Group 2. Total infusion volume of Normosol during and prior to termination of bypass was 0-2500 cc (mean=338). There were no procedural complications associated with PCPS. We conclude that PCPS can be used safely in selected patients who are considered high risk for PICA or acute MI complicated by shock or cardiac arrest. This technology adds a new dimension in perfusion in the catheterization laboratory.
Comparison Between Black Top CA510 and Flip Top FT CA510 Test Tubes in the Hemochron Blood Coagulation Timing System
Authors: Robles Francisco , DelRossi Anthony J. , Cilley Jonathan H. , Fuller Sidney J. , Dunmire Robert D. , Vertrees Roger A.
Published: August 2023

The Hemochron System for in vivo determination of blood coagulation, commonly referred to as ACT, has routinely been used for patients undergoing extracorporeal bypass surgery. A modified version of the Black Top CA510 Hemochron test tube, the Flip Top FT CA510, has become increasingly utilized in the clinical setting. A comparative study determining reliability, reproducibility and relative accuracy between the two Hemochron tubes has been established.

Simultaneous ACT tests were performed on three hospitalized patients, totaling 22 blood samples taken altogether. Each tube was injected with 2ccs of blood per patient. ACT results were obtained and there appeared to be no significant difference between Group A (Black Top CA510) and Group B (Flip Top FT CA510). Additionally, the results in Group B indicated a higher degree of reliability with the newer tubes.
Hollow Fiber Membrane Oxygenator Reduces Platelet Loss During Simulated Extracorporeal Circulation
Authors: O'Connor Colleen , Stenach Nina , Fisher Carol A. , Warsaw David , Stahl Russell , Paul Addonizio V.
Published: August 2023

Contact between blood and the extracorporeal circuit results in adverse alterations in platelet number and function. To determine the effects of surface composition and flow on these changes, 450 ml of heparinized (5 U/ml) blood from random, aspirin-free volunteers was recirculated at a flow rate of twice the circulating volume for 2 hrs at 37°C through circuits with an identical surface area (1.0m2). These circuits contained either a spiral coil, silicon rubber, membrane oxygenator (SC) or a hollow fiber, polypropylene membrane oxygenator (HF). In SC circuits (n=5), platelet counts fell to 10±3% (±SEM p <.05) at 5 min. rising to 60±9% (p < .05) at 2 hrs. of extracorporeal circulation (ECC). In contrast, in HF circuits (n=5), the platelet count fell to only 53±7% (p < .05) at 5 min of ECC and rose to 82 + 14% (p > .05) at 2 hrs. Plasma levels of the platelet-specific protein platelet factor (PF) 4 rose to 2780 ± 222 ng/ml (p <.05) by 5 minutes, reaching 6338 ±.767 ng/ml (p < .05) at 2 hours in SC circuits. In contrast, PF4 in HF circuits rose to 836±73 ng/ml and 2640 ± 410 ng/ml (p < .05), respectively. Although platelets in the SC circuits became insensitive to ADP ≥ 50 uM) within 5 min, platelets from HF circuits aggregated to ADP (17 uM) despite 2 hrs of ECC. We conclude that the hollow fiber membrane oxygenator not only reduces adhesion, maintaining the circulating platelet count, but also reduces platelet protein release and preserves platelet function as well.
A Computer-Based Audio Challenge and Response Cardiopulmonary Bypass Checklist System
Authors: Berryessa Richard G. , Riley Jeffrey B. , Dunaway Michael W. , Crowley J.C. , Harshaw R.C.
Published: August 2023

Comparisons continue to be made between perfusion and aviation. Although similarities exist there are important differences. One substantial dissimilarity is in the area of safety where commercial aviation has a dramatically lower accident rate than perfusion. Extensive safety systems, including the routine use of checklists, are a major factor in safe air travel.

Experience with the use of a checklist for cardiopulmonary bypass has proven useful for managing risk and assuring quality. Recent publications on cardiopulmonary bypass standards and safety mandate the use of checklists.

We borrowed from the aviation industry an audio checklist management system which employs digital speech technology. A small, mast-mounted, battery operated device with a lifelike voice challenges the perfusionist with a cardiopulmonary bypass checklist. After being challenged with a checklist item, the perfusionist responds verbally and advances to the next checklist item, by pressing a remote button. The device records the time that an item is checked and upon completion of the checklist prints a document for inclusion in the record.

The audio checklist includes pre-bypass set-up, pre and post-initiation, cardioplegia, pre-termination, and post-bypass checklists. Emergency procedure checklists, for common perfusion incidents, may be called-up by the perfusionist. The computer may be programmed to generate custom checklists to meet an individual perfusionist's need.

The audio checklist device assures consistency and frees the perfusionist from a more cumbersome paper checklist system. Use of the audio checklist device minimizes the diversion of the perfusionist's eyes and attention from cardiopulmonary bypass equipment and events.
Ancrod vs. Heparin: The Resulting Effect on Oxygenator Performance During Routine Cardiopulmonary Bypass
Authors: Benak AM , Zulys V , Calvieri B , Zombolas TL , Henderson MJ , Hurdle M , Glynn MFX
Published: August 2023

Ancrod, a thrombin-like enzyme with anticoagulant properties, is extracted from the venom of the Malayan Pit Viper (Agkistron rhodostoma). Recently, Ancrod has been proposed as an alternate anticoagulant for cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). In order to investigate the effect of Ancrod on the performance of the semi-porous hollow fiber membrane oxygenator now in use during CPB, in-line pressure measurements (pre- and post-oxygenator) and blood gas analysts were carried out in a clinical setting. A control group of 20 patients scheduled for coronary artery bypass grafts were coagulated with heparin and a study group of 20 patients underwent controlled defibrinogenation with Ancrod. There were no significant differences between groups with respect to blood gas values (pO2, PCO2) or pressure gradients across the membrane oxygenator and in all cases the intra-operative course was uneventful. Comparison of electron micrographs from various surfaces of the CPB circuit demonstrated less cellular and proteinaceous material were deposited on the study group's circuits than those of the patients anticoagulated with heparin.

This study confirms the efficacy of Ancrod as an alternate anticoagulant for CPB.
Platelet Preservation During Simulated Cardiopulmonary Bypass Via Phosphodiesterase Inhibition
Authors: Stenach Nina , O'Connor Colleen , Fisher Carol A. , Warsaw David , Stahl Russell , Addonizio V. Paul
Published: August 2023

Inhibition of platelet function reduces adverse platelet alterations during cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) but agents most efficacious must be given intravenously. Consequently, we evaluated a new type III phosphodiesterase inhibitor (PDEI), CK2130 (100 uM), comparing it with the most commonly prescribed oral PDEI, dipyridamole (100 uM). 450 ml of fresh heparinized (5U/ml) blood, drawn from aspirin-free volunteers, was recirculated for 2 hrs at 37°C in a polypropylene circuit (1.0m2) containing a spiral-coil membrane oxygenator. In control saline circuits (N=5), platelet counts fell to 10±3% (mean + standard error of the mean) of initial levels within 5 min and sensitivity to ADP disappeared. Plasma levels of a platelet-specific protein platelet factor 4 (PF4) rose from 2780±222 ng/ml at five minutes to 6338±767 ng/ml after 2 hrs (p < .05), indicating extensive platelet release. In contrast, with CK2130 (N=3), although platelets were similarly insensitive to ADP, platelet counts dropped to only 63±11% at five minutes and PF4 rose from 1012±510 ng/ml at five minutes to only 3689± 898 ng/ml after 2 hrs (p < .05). With dipyridamole (N=4) platelet counts fell to 66±7% and PF4 rose from 861±122 ng/ml at five minutes to only 2157±346 ng/ml after 2 hrs (p <.05) but platelets remained responsive to ADP. In conclusion, both CK2130 and dipyridamole significantly preserved the initial circulating platelet count and reduced release of PF4 with CK2130 producing more pronounced inhibition of function as well. Thus, PDEIs may play a promising role as platelet inhibitors during CPB.
Clinical Evaluation of the Sarns 7800 LX Modular Centrifugal Pump
Authors: Jerabek Charles F. , Walton Howard G.
Published: August 2023

The Sarns 7800 LX Modular Centrifugal Pump is a second generation centrifugal pump using new Doppler technology for the measurement of flow. The in vitro portion of this evaluation compared the Sarns flowmeter and the Biomedicus electromagnetic flow probe to a known occlusive roller pump output under various pressure, temperature and hemoglobin levels encountered during routine cardiac surgery. No statistically significant (p>.05) difference was found when comparing either flowmeter with the roller pump, but the Bio-Medicus probe exhibited a positive correlation (p=.026) between increased temperature and the absolute value of roller pump output minus Biomedicus flow probe display. The in vivo portion of this study compared the Sarns centrifugal system to our current patient database in the areas of blood usage, overall mortality and morbidity, and D.I.C. panel test values. The Sarns was equal or superior in all areas recorded. Plasma free hemoglobin levels run one half hour post bypass averaged 56.3mg/dl with a range of 11-144. The new Sarns system was convenient to operate, interfaced easily with an IBM computer system and presented no problems during the evaluation.