bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Jointly pooling aggregated effect sizes and their standard errors from studies with continuous clinical outcomes
Authors: Almalik Osama , Zhan Zhuozhao , Heuvel Edwin R. van den
Published: June 2022

The DerSimonian–Laird (DL) weighted average method for aggregated data meta‐analysis has been widely used for the estimation of overall effect sizes. It is criticized for its underestimation of the standard error of the overall effect size in the presence of heterogeneous effect sizes. Due to this negative property, many alternative estimation approaches have been proposed in the literature. One of the earliest alternative approaches was developed by Hardy and Thompson (HT), who implemented a profile likelihood instead of the moment‐based approach of DL. Others have further extended this likelihood approach and proposed higher‐order likelihood inferences (e.g., Bartlett‐type corrections). In addition, corrections factors for the estimated DL standard error, like the Hartung–Knapp–Sidik–Jonkman (HKSJ) adjustment, and the restricted maximum likelihood (REML) estimation have been suggested too. Although these improvements address the uncertainty in estimating the between‐study variance better than the DL method, they all assume that the true within‐study standard errors are known and equal to the observed standard errors of the effect sizes. Here, we will treat the observed standard errors as estimators for the within‐study variability and we propose a bivariate likelihood approach that jointly estimates the overall effect size, the between‐study variance, and the potentially heteroskedastic within‐study variances. We study the performance of the proposed method by means of simulation, and compare it to DL (with and without HKSJ), HT, their higher‐order likelihood methods, and REML. Our proposed approach seems to have better or similar coverages compared to the other approaches and it appears to be less biased in the case of heteroskedastic within‐study variances when this heteroskedasticty is correlated with the effect size.
Ovarian thecoma presenting with acute ovarian torsion in pregnancy; report of a rare case
Authors: Maleki Asieh , Khosravi Maedeh , Masrouri Azaadeh
Published: June 2022

Thecoma is a commonly benign ovarian tumor of the group “Sex cord‐stromal neoplasms.” This group represents <5 percent of ovarian tumors. Thecoma is extremely rare in pregnancy. Here, we describe a 17‐week pregnant woman presenting with acute ovarian pedicle torsion as a result of an ovarian thecoma.
A Red‐Light‐Driven CO‐Releasing Complex: Photoreactivities and Excited‐State Dynamics of Highly Distorted Tricarbonyl Rhenium Phthalocyanines
Authors: Wang Mengfei , Murata Kei , Koike Yosuke , Jonusauskas Gediminas , Furet Amaury , Bassani Dario M. , Saito Daisuke , Kato Masako , Shimoda Yuushi , Miyata Kiyoshi , Onda Ken , Ishii Kazuyuki
Published: June 2022

A complex comprising one [Re(CO)3]+ unit and a phthalocyanine (Pc) ligand (Re1Pc) is shown to function as a photo‐induced CO‐releasing molecule (photoCORM) in the presence of O2 and a coordinative solvent under irradiation with red light, which can deeply penetrate living tissues. Transient absorption spectroscopic measurements indicate very short excited‐state lifetimes and ultrafast intersystem crossing for Re1Pc and Re2Pc, which contains two [Re(CO)3]+ units. The excited‐state properties are ascribed to efficient spin–orbit coupling and large Franck–Condon factors originating from the complexes’ distorted structures, that is, unsymmetric coordination of [Re(CO)3]+ unit(s), one of which was confirmed by single‐crystal X‐ray analysis of a symmetrically substituted Pc with two [Re(CO)3]+ units. Re1Pc represents a promising red‐light‐driven photoCORM that can be applied in biological environments or therapeutic applications.
Suppression of Liquid‐Liquid Phase Separation and Aggregation of Antibodies by Modest Pressure Application
Authors: Fetahaj Zamira , Jaworek Michel W. , Oliva Rosario , Winter Roland
Published: June 2022

The high colloidal stability of antibody (immunoglobulin) solutions is important for pharmaceutical applications. Inert cosolutes, excipients, are generally used in therapeutic protein formulations to minimize physical instabilities, such as liquid–liquid phase separation (LLPS), aggregation and precipitation, which are often encountered during manufacturing and storage. Despite their widespread use, a detailed understanding of how excipients modulate the specific protein‐protein interactions responsible for these instabilities is still lacking. In this work, we demonstrate the high sensitivity to pressure of globulin condensates as a suitable means to suppress LLPS and subsequent aggregation of concentrated antibody solutions. The addition of excipients has only a minor effect. The high pressure sensitivity observed is due to the fact that these flexible Y‐shaped molecules create a considerable amount of void volume in the condensed phase, leading to an overall decrease in the volume of the system upon dissociation of the droplet phase by pressure already at a few tens of to hundred bar. Moreover, we show that immunoglobulin molecules themselves are highly resistant to unfolding under pressure, and can even sustain pressures up to about 6 kbar without conformational changes. This implies that immunoglobulins are resistant to the pressure treatment of foods, such as milk, in high‐pressure food‐processing technologies, thereby preserving their immunological activity.
Peri‐Decoration of a Tetraazaperylene with Urea Units: Chiral Octaazaperopyrenedioxides (OAPPDOs) and Their Optical and Chiroptical Properties
Authors: Wesp Tobias , Bruckhoff Tim , Wadepohl Hubert , Gade Lutz H.
Published: June 2022

Octaazaperopyrenedioxides (OAPPDOs) are a new class of fluorescent polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons based on a tetraazaperylene core that is formally condensed with N‐substituted urea units in the two opposite peri positions. Here, we report the synthesis of series of substituted OAPPDO derivatives with different N‐substitution patterns (H, alkyl, benzyl) in the peri positions, including bay‐chlorinated OAPPDOs. Starting from the latter, a series of bay‐arylated OAPPDOs was synthesized by Suzuki cross coupling, which resulted in the formation of helically chiral OAPPDO derivatives. The electrochemical and photophysical properties were investigated by UV/Vis and fluorescence spectroscopy as well as cyclic voltammetry. The P and M enantiomers of a phenylated OAPPDO were separated by semipreparative HPLC and further analyzed by CD spectroscopy. The frontier orbital energies, the mechanism of the isomerization, the electronic excitation and the CD spectrum (TD‐DFT) were computed and compared to the experimental data. The reversible 1e− oxidation of the OAPPDOs generates the corresponding radical cations, one of which was characterized by EPR spectroscopy. The reversible oxidation process was also systematically investigated by spectro‐electrochemistry.
Recent Advances in Type I Photoinitiators for Visible Light Induced Photopolymerization
Authors: Müller Stefanie Monika , Schlögl Sandra , Wiesner Tanja , Haas Michael , Griesser Thomas
Published: June 2022

Photopolymerization and its application in the dental, three‐dimensional (3D) printing, coating and electronic industry has become increasingly popular over the last decades. A huge variety of photoinitiators (PIs) and photoinitiating systems (PISs) have been developed that are able to generate reactive species, e. g. radicals, radical cations, and cations upon light absorption. In this Review, we focus on radical‐generating Type I PIs which undergo homolytic cleavage after irradiation with visible light. The possibility to utilize electromagnetic irradiation above 400 nm for the initiation of polymerization reactions provides several advantages such as a lower energy demand and higher curing depths in pigmented reactive systems. Recent developments of PIs based on phosphorus and group 14 elements as well as other selected concepts for Type I visible light initiators are outlined and discussed within this review.
Production and Purification of Phosphatidylinositol Mannosides from Mycobacterium smegmatis Biomass
Authors: Nobre Rodrigo N. , Esteves Ana M. , Borges Nuno , Rebelo Sara , Liu Yaqi , Mancia Filippo , Santos Helena
Published: June 2022

Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the etiological agent of tuberculosis, is regarded as the most successful pathogen of humankind and a major threat to global health. The mycobacterial cell wall is vital for cell growth, virulence, and resistance to antibiotics, and thus constitutes a unique target for drug development. To characterize the enzymes catalyzing the synthesis of the cell wall components, considerable amounts of substrates are required. Since many mycobacterial cell wall lipids, particularly phosphatidylinositol mannosides (PIMs), are not commercially available, isolation from cell biomass is the most straightforward way to obtain these compounds. In this study, we optimized a protocol to extract and purify PIM species, in particular Ac1PIM2 and Ac1PIM4, which can be further used for the identification and characterization of target enzymes. PIMs were extracted from Mycobacterium smegmatis mc2155 ΔPimE using organic solvents, and purified through three consecutive chromatography steps. Thin‐layer chromatography (TLC) was used in‐between purification steps to evaluate the success of lipid separation, and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) was used for product quantification and to assess purity. Typically, from a 60 g batch of M. smegmatis biomass we were able to isolate approximately 9 mg of Ac1PIM2 and 1.8 mg of Ac1PIM4. This is the first time the purification of phosphatidylinositol tetramannoside has been reported. © 2022 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Growth of M. smegmatis mc2155 ∆PimE

Basic Protocol 2: Extraction of lipids from M. smegmatis mc2155 ∆PimE

Basic Protocol 3: Treatment of the lipid extract for isolation of phospholipids

Basic Protocol 4: Isolation of phosphatidylinositol mannosides

Basic Protocol 5: Quantification of phosphatidylinositol mannosides
Modelling the tumor immune microenvironment for precision immunotherapy
Authors: Mackenzie Nathan J , Nicholls Clarissa , Templeton Abby R , Perera Mahasha PJ , Jeffery Penny L , Zimmermann Kate , Kulasinghe Arutha , Kenna Tony J , Vela Ian , Williams Elizabeth D , Thomas Patrick B
Published: June 2022

The complexity of the cellular and acellular players within the tumor microenvironment (TME) allows for significant variation in TME constitution and role in anticancer treatment response. Spatial alterations in populations of tumor cells and adjacent non‐malignant cells, including endothelial cells, fibroblasts and tissue‐infiltrating immune cells, often have a major role in determining disease progression and treatment response in cancer. Many current standard systemic antineoplastic treatments target the cancer cells and could be further refined to directly target commonly dysregulated cell populations of the TME. Recent developments in immuno‐oncology and bioengineering have created an attractive potential to model these complexities at the level of the individual patient. These developments, along with the increasing momentum in precision medicine research and application, have catalysed exciting new discoveries in understanding drug–TME interactions, target identification, and improved efficacy of therapies. While rapid progress has been made, there are still many challenges to overcome in the development of accurate in vitro, in vivo and ex vivo models incorporating the cellular interactions that take place in the TME. In this review, we describe how advances in immuno‐oncology and patient‐derived models, such as patient‐derived organoids and explant cultures, have enhanced the landscape of personalised immunotherapy prediction and treatment of solid organ malignancies. We describe and compare different immunological targets and perspectives on two‐dimensional and three‐dimensional modelling approaches that may be used to better rationalise immunotherapy use, ultimately providing a knowledge base for the integration of the autologous TME into these predictive models.
Collaborative wildlife–snow science: Integrating wildlife and snow expertise to improve research and management
Authors: Reinking Adele K. , Højlund Pedersen Stine , Elder Kelly , Boelman Natalie T. , Glass Thomas W. , Oates Brendan A. , Bergen Scott , Roberts Shane , Prugh Laura R. , Brinkman Todd J. , Coughenour Michael B. , Feltner Jennifer A. , Barker Kristin J. , Bentzen Torsten W. , Pedersen Åshild Ø. , Schmidt Niels M. , Liston Glen E.
Published: June 2022

For wildlife inhabiting snowy environments, snow properties such as onset date, depth, strength, and distribution can influence many aspects of ecology, including movement, community dynamics, energy expenditure, and forage accessibility. As a result, snow plays a considerable role in individual fitness and ultimately population dynamics, and its evaluation is, therefore, important for comprehensive understanding of ecosystem processes in regions experiencing snow. Such understanding, and particularly study of how wildlife–snow relationships may be changing, grows more urgent as winter processes become less predictable and often more extreme under global climate change. However, studying and monitoring wildlife–snow relationships continue to be challenging because characterizing snow, an inherently complex and constantly changing environmental feature, and identifying, accessing, and applying relevant snow information at appropriate spatial and temporal scales, often require a detailed understanding of physical snow science and technologies that typically lie outside the expertise of wildlife researchers and managers. We argue that thoroughly assessing the role of snow in wildlife ecology requires substantive collaboration between researchers with expertise in each of these two fields, leveraging the discipline‐specific knowledge brought by both wildlife and snow professionals. To facilitate this collaboration and encourage more effective exploration of wildlife–snow questions, we provide a five‐step protocol: (1) identify relevant snow property information; (2) specify spatial, temporal, and informational requirements; (3) build the necessary datasets; (4) implement quality control procedures; and (5) incorporate snow information into wildlife analyses. Additionally, we explore the types of snow information that can be used within this collaborative framework. We illustrate, in the context of two examples, field observations, remote‐sensing datasets, and four example modeling tools that simulate spatiotemporal snow property distributions and, in some cases, evolutions. For each type of snow data, we highlight the collaborative opportunities for wildlife and snow professionals when designing snow data collection efforts, processing snow remote sensing products, producing tailored snow datasets, and applying the resulting snow information in wildlife analyses. We seek to provide a clear path for wildlife professionals to address wildlife–snow questions and improve ecological inference by integrating the best available snow science through collaboration with snow professionals.
Rhizospherebacterial communities differ among traditional maize landraces
Authors: Lund Mads , Agerbo Rasmussen Jacob , Ramos‐Madrigal Jazmín , Sawers Ruairidh , Gilbert M. Thomas P. , Barnes Christopher James
Published: June 2022

The plant‐associated microbiome has been shown to vary considerably between species and across environmental gradients. The effects of genomic variation on the microbiome within single species are less clearly understood, with results often confounded by the larger effects of climatic and edaphic variation. In this study, our objective was to confirm that maize genomic variation effects the rhizosphere bacterial communities in the absence of confounding environmental variation. This was investigated by comparing different maize lines grown within controlled environments. Rhizosphere bacterial communities were profiled by metabarcoding the universal bacterial 16S rRNA v3‐v4 region. Initially, plants from the inbred B73 line and the traditional Ancho landrace were grown for 12 weeks and compared. The experiment was then repeated with an additional four Mexican landraces (Apachito, Tehua, Serrano, and Harinoso) that were grown alongside additional B73 and Ancho plants. In both experiments, there were significant compositional differences in the rhizosphere bacteria associated with different genotypes. Additionally, we found that genetic distance (phylogenetic) correlated with bacterial community similarity (i.e., more closely related lines had more similar rhizosphere bacteria). We therefore confirm that heritable variation in maize landraces is associated with differences in the rhizosphere bacterial communities. Further studies are required to identify the mechanisms that translate variation in the genome to predictable variation in the root microbiome, which could potentially be exploited to optimize the root microbiome for particular functions as part of crop improvement strategies.
Oral iron supplementation in patients with heart failure: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Song Zhiping , Tang Mingyang , Tang Gang , Fu Guoqi , Ou Dengke , Yao Fengyou , Hou Xingzhi , Zhang Denghong
Published: June 2022

Aims

This review aimed to assess whether oral iron supplementation in a chronic heart failure (HF) population with iron deficiency (ID) or mild anaemia is safe and effective according to evidence‐based medicine.

Methods

We retrieved 1803 records from the PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library databases from 1 January 1991 to 15 September 2021. The clinical outcome of oral iron supplementation for ID anaemia in patients with HF was the primary endpoint. The primary safety measures included adverse events and all‐cause mortality, and efficacy measures included transferrin saturation (Tsat), ferritin levels, and the 6‐min walk test (6MWT). The rate ratio (RR) was used to pool the efficacy measures.

Results

Five randomized controlled trials that compared oral iron treatment for patients with the placebo group and included a combined total of 590 participants were analysed. No significant difference was found in all‐cause death between oral iron treatment and placebo groups (RR = 0.77; 95% confidence intervals (CI), 0.46–1.29, Z = 0.98; P = 0.33). However, adverse events were not significantly higher in the iron treatment group (RR = 0.83; 95% CI, 0.60–1.16, Z = 1.07; P = 0.28). In addition, ferritin levels and Tsat were slightly increased after iron complex administration in patients with HF but were not statistically significant (ferritin: mean difference [MD] = 2.70, 95% CI, –2.41 to 7.81, Z = 1.04; P = 0.30; Tsat: MD = 27.42, 95% CI, –4.93 to 59.78, Z = 1.66; P = 0.10). No significant difference was found in exercise capacity, as indicated by the 6MWT results (MD = 59.60, 95% CI, –17.89 to 137.08, Z = 1.51; P = 0.13). We also analysed two non‐randomized controlled trials with follow‐up results showing that oral iron supplementation increased serum iron levels (MD = 28.87, 95% CI, 1.62–56.12, Z = 2.08; P = 0.04).

Conclusions

Based on the current findings, oral iron supplementation can increase serum iron levels in patients with HF and ID or mild anaemia but does not improve Tsat and 6MWT. In addition, oral iron supplementation is relatively safe.
A survey‐based triage tool to identify patients potentially eligible for referral to an advanced heart failure centre
Authors: Murphy Laura , Giblin Gerard T. , Starr Neasa , Caples Norma , Black Regina , Halley Carmel , McDonald Kenneth , Joyce Emer
Published: June 2022

Aims

Accurate prevalence data for ambulatory advanced heart failure (HF) in European countries remains limited. This study was designed to identify the population of patients potentially eligible for referral for assessment for advanced surgical HF therapies to a National advanced HF and cardiac transplant centre.

Methods and results

A survey comprising 13 potential clinical markers of advanced HF was developed, modified from the ‘I NEED HELP’ tool from the 2018 position statement of the Heart Failure Association of the European Society of Cardiology, and distributed to all HF clinic services (secondary and tertiary units) nationwide. Each HF clinic unit was asked to complete the survey on consecutive patients over a 3 month period fulfilling the following three criteria: (i) age <65 years; (ii) ejection fraction <40% and (iii) HF of >3 months duration. As a comparison, the number of actual referrals to the advanced HF clinic were also audited over a 9 month period. In all, 21 of 26 HF clinic units participated in the survey. Across the period of inclusion, 4950 all‐comer HF patients were seen across all sites. Of these, 375 (7.5%) fulfilled the inclusion criteria and were surveyed (74.4% male, median age 57 years [IQR: 11 years]). In total, 246 (66%) of the surveyed patients had ≥1 potential markers for advanced HF, representing just under 5% of the total all‐comer HF population seen across the same time period. Of these, 67 patients (27%) had ≥2, 48 (20%) had 3 and 40 (16%) had ≥4 potential markers. The most frequently noted markers were ≥1 HF hospitalization or unscheduled clinic review (56%), intolerance to renin‐angiotensin‐aldosterone system inhibitors due to hypotension or renal dysfunction (29%) and intolerance to beta‐blockers due to hypotension (27%). Almost one‐quarter of patients reported NYHA Class III or IV symptoms. During the advanced HF clinic audit, the number of patients actually referred to the advanced HF clinic during the same time period was <5% of this potentially eligible cohort.

Conclusions

In this index prospective National survey, approximately 5% of an all‐comer routine HF clinic population and two‐thirds of a pre‐selected HF with reduced EF under 65 years cohort were found to have at least one clinical or biochemical marker suggesting advanced or impending advanced HF. Almost one‐quarter of patients in this chronic outpatient ‘snapshot’ population have NYHA III‐IV symptoms. This simple one‐page triage survey—modified from the ‘I NEED HELP’ tool—is useful to identify a population potentially eligible for referral to an advanced HF centre for assessment for advanced surgical therapies, thereby aiding resource and service planning.
Calcium Complexes Bearing Dianionic or Monoanionic Iminoacenaphthen‐1‐one Ligands: Synthesis, Reactions with Alkynes and Catalysis of L‐lactide Polymerization
Authors: Lukoyanov Anton N. , Zvereva Yulia V. , Parshina Diana A. , Cherkasov Anton V. , Ketkov Sergey Yu.
Published: June 2022

The reduction of 2‐[(2,6‐diisopropylphenyl)imino]acenaphthen‐1‐one (dpp‐MIAN) with metallic calcium in THF affords tetrameric [(dpp‐MIAN)Ca(THF)]4 (1). A further addition of dpp‐MIAN to complex 1 leads to the formation of paramagnetic species [(dpp‐MIAN)3Ca]2Ca (2). Both complexes were characterized by X‐ray diffraction. Complex 1 is active towards phenylacetylene and acetylene at temperatures above 80 °C. As a result, cycloaddition products are formed. Their hydrolysis results in a release of the dpp‐MIAN ligand with an attached phenylethynyl or ethynyl moiety to the carbonyl C atom. Complexes 1 and 2 demonstrate catalytic activity in the polymerization of L‐lactide both in solution and in bulk.
Mergers & acquisitions in the elevator industry: The use of information and communication technologies to avoid information asymmetry
Authors: de la Guardia Garcia‐Lomas Juan , Palacios Miguel , Zurdo Ricardo Palomo
Published: June 2022

Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A) is one of the most explored growth strategies in all markets, and this is indeed the case in the elevator industry, an engineering‐based industry with important service contracts. The reality is that a high percentage of the operations carried out do not meet the expectations of the investors once the integration phase has been completed. The authors have reviewed 290 papers related to successes and failures of M&A operations from different industries, between 1990 and 2020, and the conclusion is that there are several causes of failures in M&A operations, but the most common one, and the one with the highest risk of overprice in an acquisition decision, is information asymmetry. During the negotiation phase a large amount of data is collected, and subsequently analyzed during the due diligence period, but it may not correspond to the reality during the integration phase. In this article we will propose how information asymmetry can be avoided through internet of things (hereinafter IoT) devices installed in an elevator. This can also be applied to other engineering‐based industries with service involvement and potential remote measurements.
Amplitude scaling of ground motions as a potential source of bias: Large‐scale investigations on structural drifts
Authors: Tsalouchidis Konstantinos Theodoros , Adam Christoph
Published: June 2022

The question of whether amplitude scaling of ground motion (GM) records introduces bias is controversial in earthquake engineering. In this study, this research question is formally defined with a focus on evaluating bias in determining an engineering demand parameter (EDP) as a result of nonlinear response history analyses (NLRHA) when using scaled rather than unscaled GM that have the same level of intensity. The analysed structures are 10 planar steel frame buildings ranging from low‐ to high‐rise, where the EDP of interest is the maximum interstory drift ratio, while the structural responses range from linear to collapse. A unique contribution is the depth of the research, which employs an unprecedented number of more than 17,000 recorded GM, resulting in approximately 3.4 million NLRHA. For a thorough investigation, the most relevant intensity measures are discussed and considered, as well as novel spectral information describing the sustained vibration amplitude. The introduction of bias is examined from different points of view, using first simple and intuitive statistical methods, then machine learning techniques, and finally a novel GM selection approach. In the numerous investigations, no bias could be detected under the inherent uncertainty of the calculations. The results indicate that scaled records can be safely used in NLRHA to assess the seismic structural behaviour if spectral and scenario compatibility are ensured and it is verified that the sustained amplitude is also consistent.
The naming of Homo bodoensis by Roksandic and colleagues does not resolve issues surrounding Middle Pleistocene human evolution
Authors: Delson Eric , Stringer Chris
Published: June 2022

Roksandic et al. (2022) proposed the new species name Homo bodoensis as a replacement name for Homo rhodesiensis Woodward, 1921, because they felt it was poorly and variably defined and was linked to sociopolitical baggage. However, the International Code of Zoological Nomenclature includes regulations on how and when such name changes are allowed, and Roksandic et al.'s arguments meet none of these requirements. It is not permitted to change a name solely because of variable (or erroneous) later use once it has been originally defined correctly, nor can a name be modified because it is offensive to one or more authors or to be politically expedient. We discuss past usage of H. rhodesiensis and the relevant nomenclatural procedures, the proposed evolutionary position of H. bodoensis, and issues raised about decolonizing paleoanthropology. We reject H. bodoensis as a junior synonym, with no value from its inception.
Ten Steps to Organize a Virtual Scientific Symposium and Engage Your Global Audience
Authors: Son Jiye , Sabio Jasmine , Jain Ankit , Ulijn Rein V.
Published: June 2022

The paper describes guidelines for the planning, organization, and successful execution of virtual, global scientific conferences for global audiences. The guidelines are based on experience and lessons learned during the organization of the 3‐day 2020 Virtual Systems Chemistry Symposium hosted on Zoom webinar and Twitter, held on May 2020 with over 1000 registered participants from 46 different countries.
Caution on determining divide migration from cross‐divide contrast in χ
Authors: Wu Yunpeng , Yang Rong , He Chuanqi , He Junqing
Published: June 2022

The landscapes on Earth are shaped by the interaction of tectonics and erosion processes and thus is a recorder for past tectonic and climatic histories. A recently proposed geomorphologic index for fluvial landscape, χ, can indicate the drainage divide migration from the smaller‐χ‐value side to the other and provide a quick estimation of the dynamic state of drainage systems. Since then, this index has been frequently used to determine divide mobility and hence landscape evolution. Some factors, however, have substantial impacts on the interpretation of the χ value, including tectonic activities, rock erodibility, and precipitation differences. Here we set a series of numerical simulations implemented on the landscape evolution model of DAC (Divide and Capture). Each simulation includes a spatial variation of a particular factor to examine the relationship between divide migration and χ values. Our numerical modelling results indicate that the migration direction is related to cross‐divide contrast in erosion rate rather than χ. We take the Wula Shan horst as a natural example to demonstrate a static drainage divide but with discrepancies of cross‐divide χ values in a setting of spatially asymmetric uplift. Our results suggest that a straightforward relationship between cross‐divide contrasts in χ values and the drainage divide motion may not exist when spatial and temporal variations exist in the rock uplift rate, lithology, and precipitation. We emphasize that researchers should take notice of the requisite assumptions and scope of the application when using this index in landscape analysis.
Emotional exhaustion and fear of COVID‐19 in geriatric facilities during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Altintas Emin , El Haj Mohamad , Boudoukha Abdel‐Halim , Olivier Camille , Lizio Andréa , Luyat Marion , Gallouj Karim
Published: June 2022

Objective

Since the onset of the COVID‐19 pandemic, healthcare workers, especially those employed in hospital settings, have been exposed to a variety of stressors in the workplace. The aim of this study was to explore the Emotional Exhaustion (EE) of workers in geriatric facilities during the COVID‐19 crisis. We accordingly sought to investigate the short‐term impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic in terms of the EE experienced by workers in geriatric facilities, and to examine the manner in which psychosocial conditions and fear of COVID‐19 in the workplace have affected EE.

Methods

Surveys were administered in the midst of the COVID‐19 crisis (October to December 2020). The study included 118 French healthcare workers with a mean age of 35.61 ± 0.73 recruited in geriatric facilities. We assessed EE, psychosocial conditions (e.g., demands at work, health and well‐being, etc.) and fear of COVID‐19 in the workplace.

Results

The analysis yielded two main outcomes. First, 34.75% workers (41) reported severe levels of EE. Second, demands at work and the fear of COVD‐19 increased EE. Health and well‐being were, however, demonstrated to protect against EE.

Discussion

Furthermore, fear of COVID‐19 was shown to contribute significantly to EE healthcare workers in geriatric facilities. It is likely that Covid‐19 indirectly contributes to EE by influencing demands at work.
Stability and changes in high school students' STEM career expectations: Variability based on STEM support and parent education
Authors: Starr Christine R. , Ramos Carranza Perla , Simpkins Sandra D.
Published: June 2022

Introduction

Why do some students maintain their career expectations in STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics), whereas others change their expectations? Using situated expectancy‐value and social cognitive career theories, we sought to investigate the extent to which STEM support predicted changes in students' STEM career expectations during high school, and if these processes varied by whether the student had college educated or noncollege educated parents.

Methods

Using the nationally representative data set of the High School Longitudinal Study, we investigated the predictors of changes in US students' STEM career expectations from 9th to 11th grade (n = 13,100, 54% noncollege educated parents, 51% girls, 55% White, 21% Latinx, 12% Black).

Results and Conclusions

Students with noncollege educated parents were significantly more likely to change from STEM to non‐STEM career expectations by 11th grade or to have stable non‐STEM career expectations (compared to having stable STEM expectations or changing from non‐STEM to STEM expectations). Additionally, students with noncollege educated parents were less likely to receive STEM support from parents and attend extracurricular activities compared to students with college educated parents. However, when examining the predictors among students with noncollege educated parents, students were more likely to maintain their expectations for a STEM career from 9th to 11th grade (compared to switching to a non‐STEM career) if they had parental STEM support. Additionally, all students regardless of parents' level of education were more likely to maintain their expectations for a STEM career (vs. switching to a non‐STEM career) through high school if they received teacher STEM support. Furthermore, students were more likely to develop STEM career expectations (vs. maintaining non‐STEM career expectations) if they had parent STEM support. These findings highlight how parent and teacher STEM support may bolster STEM career expectations, particularly among students with noncollege educated parents.
Do extracurricular activities contribute to better adolescent outcomes? A fixed‐effects panel data approach
Authors: O'Flaherty Martin , Baxter Janeen , Campbell Alice
Published: June 2022

Introduction

Extracurricular activity participation is associated with positive academic, health, and behavioral outcomes for adolescents, but these findings may reflect unobserved confounding rather than participation effects.

Method

Data were drawn from 3885 adolescents aged 12–15 in a nationally representative cohort of Australian adolescents. Effects of participation in three kinds of extracurricular activity (team sport, individual sport, and arts) on an array of outcomes were modeled using fixed‐effects regression to account for potential unobserved confounding.

Results

Strong bivariate relationships between all forms of activity participation and positive adolescent outcomes were found. These associations were much smaller in the fixed‐effects analysis, but beneficial effects of sports for mental health and arts for peer group characteristics remained statistically significant. Minimal effects of extracurricular activity participation for academic achievement were found.

Conclusion

Extracurricular activity participation has beneficial effects on adolescents' mental health and exposure to peers' delinquent behavior.
Alterations in CD39/CD73 axis of T cells associated with COVID‐19 severity
Authors: Dorneles Gilson P. , Teixeira Paula C. , da Silva Igor M. , Schipper Lucas L. , Santana Filho Paulo C. , Rodrigues Junior Luiz C. , Bonorino Cristina , Peres Alessandra , Fonseca Simone G. , Monteiro Marta C. , Boeck Carina R. , Eller Sarah , Oliveira Tiago F. , Wendland Eliana M. , Romão Pedro R. T.
Published: June 2022

Purinergic signaling modulates immune function and is involved in the immunopathogenesis of several viral infections. This study aimed to investigate alterations in purinergic pathways in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) patients. Mild and severe COVID‐19 patients had lower extracellular adenosine triphosphate and adenosine levels, and higher cytokines than healthy controls. Mild COVID‐19 patients presented lower frequencies of CD4+CD25+CD39+(activated/memory regulatory T cell [mTreg]) and increased frequencies of high‐differentiated (CD27−CD28−) CD8+T cells compared with healthy controls. Severe COVID‐19 patients also showed higher frequencies of CD4+CD39+, CD4+CD25−CD39+(memory T effector cell), and high‐differentiated CD8+T cells (CD27−CD28−), and diminished frequencies of CD4+CD73+, CD4+CD25+CD39+mTreg cell, CD8+CD73+, and low‐differentiated CD8+T cells (CD27+CD28+) in the blood in relation to mild COVID‐19 patients and controls. Moreover, severe COVID‐19 patients presented higher expression of PD‐1 on low‐differentiated CD8+T cells. Both severe and mild COVID‐19 patients presented higher frequencies of CD4+Annexin‐V+and CD8+Annexin‐V+T cells, indicating increased T‐cell apoptosis. Plasma samples collected from severe COVID‐19 patients were able to decrease the expression of CD73 on CD4+and CD8+T cells of a healthy donor. Interestingly, the in vitro incubation of peripheral blood mononuclear cell from severe COVID‐19 patients with adenosine reduced the nuclear factor‐κB activation in T cells and monocytes. Together, these data add new knowledge to the COVID‐19 immunopathology through purinergic regulation.
Automated bone healing evaluation: New approach to histomorphometric analysis
Authors: Linhares Camila Rodrigues Borges , Rabelo Gustavo Davi , Limirio Pedro Henrique Justino Oliveira , Venâncio Jessyca Figueira , Ribeiro Silva Igor Gonçalves , Dechichi Paula
Published: June 2022

This study aimed to assess different approaches for bone healing evaluation on histological images and to introduce a new automatic evaluation method based on segmentation with distinct thresholds. We evaluated the hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBO) effects on bone repair in type 1 diabetes mellitus rats. Twelve animals were divided into four groups (n = 3): non‐diabetic, non‐diabetic + HBO, diabetic, and diabetic + HBO. Diabetes was induced by intravenous administration of streptozotocin (50 mg/kg). Bone defects were created in femurs and HBO was immediately started at one session/day. After 7 days, the animals were euthanized, femurs were removed, demineralized, and embedded in paraffin. Histological sections were stained with hematoxylin and eosin (HE) and Mallory's trichrome (MT), and evaluated using three approaches: (1) conventional histomorphometric analysis (HE images) using a 144‐point grid to quantify the bone matrix; (2) a semi‐automatic method based on bone matrix segmentation to assess the bone matrix percentage (MT images); and (3) automatic approach, with the creation of a plug‐in for ImageJ software. The time required to perform the analysis in each method was measured and subjected to Bland–Altman statistical analysis. All three methods were satisfactory for measuring bone formation and were not statistically different. The automatic approach reduced the working time compared to visual grid and semi‐automated method (p < .01). Although histological evaluation of bone healing was performed successfully using all three methods, the novel automatic approach significantly shortened the time required for analysis and had high accuracy.
Developing an innovative raw wheat Qu inoculated with Saccharopolyspora and its application in Huangjiu
Authors: Ma Donglin , Liu Shuangping , Liu Haipo , Nan Mujia , Xu Yuezheng , Han Xiao , Mao Jian
Published: June 2022

BACKGROUND

Mechanized Huangjiu is a stable product, is not subject to seasonal production restrictions, and markedly reduces labor intensity compared to traditional manual Huangjiu. However, the bitterness of mechanized Huangjiu impedes its further development.

RESULTS

Based on process optimization, when the fermentation temperature was 45 °C and the fermentation time was 122 h, the inoculation amount of Saccharopolyspora was 5%, the amount of added water was 26%, and the glucoamylase and amylase activities of wheat Qu increased by 27% and 40% respectively, compared with those before optimization. Huangjiu fermented by raw wheat Qu inoculated with Saccharopolyspora rosea F2014 showed a significant (P < 0.05) decrease in bitter amino acid content (1.24 vs. 2.86 g L−1, a decrease of 56%), which attenuated its bitterness.

CONCLUSION

An innovative fermentation process of inoculating Saccharopolyspora into raw wheat Qu was developed for the first time. Such a process could be used to control bitterness based on raw wheat Qu inoculated with Saccharopolyspora rosea F2014, instead of traditional wheat Qu in Huangjiu fermentation. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
The effect of anthropomorphized technology failure on the desire to connect with others
Authors: Lteif Lama , Valenzuela Ana
Published: June 2022

Extant work suggests that unsuccessful human−technology interactions can elicit negative affective reactions, prompting users to engage in compensatory behavior including seeking affiliation with others. The current work presents one mechanism to explain these findings. Specifically, we propose that users may construe incidents of technology failure akin to incidents of social rejection: Across three studies, we demonstrate that when an anthropomorphized (vs. nonanthropomorphized) technology fails to function as expected, users experience feelings of rejection, and subsequently express a greater desire to connect with others. In doing so, we contribute to extant research on human−technology interactions by uniquely demonstrating that feelings of social rejection may arise from technology failure. Our work also deepens our understanding of the unintended negative consequences of product anthropomorphism and, as such, provides insight into technology design.
Spectral analysis and stabilization of one dimensional wave equation with singular potential
Authors: Ragoubi Marwa
Published: June 2022

In this paper, we are interested in a boundary damped wave problem with a singular potential. Using a careful spectral analysis, asymptotic expressions of the eigenvalues and eigenvectors of the system operator are derived in terms of the dissipative coefficient and the potential. The Riesz basis property of eigenfunctions and generalized eigenfunctions is also studied. As a consequence, we obtained the exponential stability.
Long‐Term Dietary Effects on Human Gut Microbiota Composition Employing Shotgun Metagenomics Data Analysis
Authors: Troci Alba , Rausch Philipp , Waschina Silvio , Lieb Wolfgang , Franke Andre , Bang Corinna
Published: June 2022

Scope

The gut microbiome regulates various metabolic pathways in the host and its dysbiosis is involved in the pathogenesis of diverse diseases. One of the major factors triggering gut microbiome establishment is diet. This study aims to unravel interactions and changes between diet and gut microbiome over a period of 3 years.

Methods and results

This study investigates the relation between diet and the microbiome of 75 individuals over a 3‐year time period. Shotgun metagenomic sequencing is performed to profile gut microbial composition and function. This study shows that there are significant changes in gut microbiome taxonomy and functional composition between two time points. Whereas microbial taxonomy is found to be highly individualized, overall microbial functions stay relatively stable. Moreover, in silico metabolic modeling of microbial communities indicates that changes in dietary intake of medium‐chain saturated fatty acids is accompanied by an altered utilization of amino acids by the gut microbiome.

Conclusion

The study design allows us to validate functional stability within the gut microbiome of healthy subjects over a 3‐year period. However, enduring changes in nutrition such as increased alcohol consumption or decreased intake of vegetables come along with enhanced microbial functions that are associated with disease etiology.
Collaboration between two CF centers; one in USA and one in Turkey before and during CoV2 pandemic
Authors: Nasr Samya Z. , Gökdemir Yasemin , Erdem Ela , Karakoc Fazilet , Ergenekon Pinar , Tapley Christopher , Dagher Sharyn , Bouma Sandra , Coşkun Özge Keniş , Kocamaz Damla , Karadag Bulent
Published: June 2022

To address the discrepancy in the quality of care and outcomes between cystic fibrosis centers (CFCs) in high‐income countries and limited resources countries (LRCs), a collaboration between our team at the University of Michigan CFC (UMCFC) and a CF center in Turkey (Marmara University CFC [MUCFC], Istanbul) was established. The collaboration included evaluation of all aspects of care and initiation of quality improvement (QI) measures. Teaching and implementing QI tools has led to start of improvement in MUCFC care. Close monitoring and sharing resources like UMCFC algorithms, protocols, and QI processes were done.
Does the routine use of spirometry improve clinical outcomes in children?—A systematic review
Authors: Boonjindasup Wicharn , Chang Anne B. , McElrea Margaret S. , Yerkovich Stephanie T. , Marchant Julie M.
Published: June 2022

Spirometry provides a quantitative measure of lung function and its use is recommended as an adjunct to enhance pediatric respiratory healthcare in many clinical practice guidelines. However, there is limited evidence confirming the benefits (or otherwise) of using spirometry from either clinician or patient perspectives. This systematic review aimed to determine the impact of spirometry on change in clinical decision making and patient‐reported outcome measures. We searched PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, www.clinicaltrials.gov, and World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform, from inception to July 2021. We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing the use versus non‐use of spirometry during standard clinical review in children aged <18 years with respiratory problems in clinics. We used Cochrane methodology. The search identified 3475 articles; 8 full‐text articles were reviewed but only 1 study fulfilled the inclusion criteria. The single study involved two cluster RCTs of spirometry for children with asthma in general practice. The included study did not find any significant intergroup difference at the 12‐month follow‐up for asthma‐related quality‐of‐life and clinical endpoints. However, the findings were limited by methodological weaknesses and high risks of bias. With a paucity of data, the clinical benefits of spirometry remain unclear. Thus, there is a clear need for RCTs that provide high‐quality evidence to support the routine use of spirometry in children with suspected or known lung disease. Pending the availability of better evidence, we recommend that clinicians adhere to the current clinical practice recommendations.