bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Conditional release and cannabis use: Concerns and challenges for community reintegration
Authors: Vitacco Michael J. , Batastini Ashley B. , Smith Colin
Published: April 2022

This article, which serves as a perspective review, delves into the complexities of cannabis use among individuals preparing for or already on conditional release (CR). These complexities include an association between cannabis use and mental illness and dealing with the fact that the use of illicit substances, such as cannabis, is against CR rules, leading to potential revocation. A focus of this article is the deleterious effects cannabis and synthetic derivatives of cannabis can have for individuals on CR. The article concludes with six‐specific recommendations for managing cannabis use in this population with a focus on careful and detailed risk assessments that considers the relationship between substance use and dangerousness, the role of protective factors, the need for a detailed conditional release plan, inpatient and community‐based interventions aimed at increasing individual autonomy, and education on the dangers of cannabis use for both the treatment team and the insanity acquittee.
Psychotropic medication use in parents of survivors of adolescent cancer: A register‐based cohort study
Authors: Wikman Anna , Hovén Emma , Alvariza Anette , Lövgren Malin , Kreicbergs Ulrika , Skoglund Charlotte , Fransson Emma , Ljungman Gustaf , Ljung Rickard , Ljungman Lisa
Published: April 2022

Background

The aim was to investigate psychotropic medication use in parents of survivors of adolescent cancer from the acute post‐diagnostic phase and up to 2 years following the cancer diagnosis.

Methods

This study had a nationwide register‐based cohort design comparing psychotropic medication use in parents of adolescent survivors of cancer (n = 2323) to use in parents of cancer‐free controls (n = 20,868). Cox proportional hazards models, adjusted for cancer diagnostic group, parents' age, country of birth, education level, marital status and previous mental health problems estimated the risk of use from the time of the cancer diagnosis up to 2 years later.

Results

During the first 6 months after the cancer diagnosis, both mothers and fathers had an increased risk of use of anxiolytics (mothers: HRadj 1.71, 95% CI 1.30–2.25; fathers: HRadj 1.57, 95% CI 1.10–2.45) and hypnotics/sedatives (mothers: HRadj 1.53, 95% CI 1.23–1.90; fathers: HRadj 1.32, 95% CI 1.00–1.75). For fathers with a prescription of psychotropic medication during the first 6 months after the cancer diagnosis, the risk remained increased after 6 months (HRadj 1.66, 95% CI 1.04–2.65). From 6 months after the cancer diagnosis, only the risk of antidepressant use among mothers was increased (HRadj 1.38, 95% CI 1.08–1.76). Risk factors included being divorced/widowed, born in a non‐Nordic country, older age and having had previous mental health problems.

Conclusion

Our study results show that during the immediate post‐diagnostic phase, mothers and fathers of survivors of adolescent cancer are at increased risk of use of anxiolytics and sedatives, whereas only mothers are at increased risk of antidepressant use from 6 months until 2 years after the diagnosis. Further, previous mental health problems were shown to be the strongest risk factor for psychotropic medication use in both mothers and fathers, pointing to the particular vulnerability of these parents.
In vitro exosomal transfer of Nrf2 led to the oxaliplatin resistance in human colorectal cancer LS174T cells
Authors: Mostafazadeh Mostafa , Kahroba Houman , Haiaty Sanya , TazeKand Abbas P. , Samadi Nasser , Rahbarghazi Reza , Nouri Mohammad
Published: April 2022

Chemotherapy resistance is a serious pitfall in the treatment of colon cancers (CCs). Previous studies have found that exosomes (Exo) play a pivotal role in tumor drug resistance via the transfer of proteins and genetic materials to the acceptor cells. To date, the mechanisms orchestrating Exo‐derived resistance in cancer cells have been the center of attention. Herein, we aimed to evaluate the role of exosomal nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2) on oxaliplatin (1‐OHP) resistance in human colorectal cancer LS174T cells in vitro. To this end, exosomal‐Nrf2‐mediated 1‐OHP resistance was examined using different assays. Exo was isolated from resistant LS174T cells (LS174T/R) and added to the culture medium of sensitive LS174T cells (LS174T/S). According to our data, LS174T/S cells successfully adsorbed PKH26‐Exo driven from LS174T/R cells. Western blotting showed an increased Nrf2 level in Exo isolated from LS174T/R cells compared to LS174T/S cell‐derived Exo (p < .05). The incubation of LS174T/S cells with LS174T/R‐derived Exo increased half‐maximal inhibitory concentration values in response to treatment with 1‐OHP (p < .05). Besides this, the apoptotic changes were diminished in LS174T/S cells after incubation with LS174T/R‐derived Exo. Of note, the exposure of LS174T/S cells to LS174T/R cell‐derived Exo increased the expression of Nrf2 and P‐glycoprotein (P‐gp) compared to the nontreated LS174T/S cells (p < .05). In line with these changes, lower intracellular Rhodamin 123 content was detected in Exo‐treated cells compared to the nontreated LS174T/S cells. Exo increased migration and clonogenic capacity of LS174T/S cells after incubation with Exo‐derived from resistant cells. Of note, inhibition of Nrf2 with a specific blocker, brusatol, blunted these effects. Taken together, Exo‐mediated transfer of Nrf2 is involved in the development of oxaliplatin resistance in CC cells by upregulating P‐gp.
Investigation of β‐Substitution Activity of O‐Acetylserine Sulfhydrolase from Citrullus vulgaris
Authors: Smith Jamorious L. , Harrison Isa Madrigal , Bingman Craig A. , Buller Andrew R.
Published: April 2022

Pyridoxal‐5’‐phosphate (PLP)‐dependent enzymes have garnered interest for their ability to synthesize non‐standard amino acids (nsAAs). One such class of enzymes, O‐acetylserine sulfhydrylases (OASSs), catalyzes the final step in the biosynthesis of l‐cysteine. Here, we examine the β‐substitution capability of the OASS from Citrullus vulgaris (CvOASS), a putative l‐mimosine synthase. While the previously reported mimosine synthase activity was not reproducible in our hands, we successfully identified non‐native reactivity with a variety of O‐nucleophiles. Optimization of reaction conditions for carboxylate and phenolate substrates led to distinct conditions that were leveraged for the preparative‐scale synthesis of nsAAs. We further show this enzyme is capable of C−C bond formation through a β‐alkylation reaction with an activated nitroalkane. To facilitate understanding of this enzyme, we determined the crystal structure of the enzyme bound to PLP as the internal aldimine at 1.55 Å, revealing key features of the active site and providing information that may guide subsequent development of CvOASS as a practical biocatalyst.
Time to lift the fog of iatrogenic complications in mechanical support
Authors: Gilchrist Ian C.
Published: April 2022

Key Points

Vascular complications plague patients treated with mechanical circulatory support.

These complications are associated with significant morbidity and risk erasing the benefits of the technology.

Standardized care with across the spectrum of indication, access, care, and ultimate removal of mechanical support is a promising concept to reduce complications in this high‐risk patient group.
Better early than later!
Authors: Yildiz Mehmet , Henry Timothy D.
Published: April 2022

Key Points

Timing to administer antiplatelet and antithrombin inhibitor in ST‐segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients remains a matter of debate despite the guideline's recommendation of “as early as possible.”

This pre–post study with heparin and ticagrelor pretreatment in STEMI patients improved pre‐PCI TIMI flow grade with lower peak cardiac troponin levels and higher left ventricular ejection fraction without any difference in bleeding risk.

The results provide further support for the use of standardized STEMI protocols, including pretreatment with aspirin, heparin bolus, and P2Y12 inhibitor at the first‐medical contact in an effort to improve infarct‐related artery patency without risk of bleeding.
First case of concomitant cytomegalovirus (CMV) viremia in non‐immunocompromised COVID‐19 patient and ICU management strategy in Qatar with literature review
Authors: Iqbal Phool , Menik Arachchige Suresh , Ali Yousra , Qamar Muhammad Sohaib , Jaouni Hani Walid , Abdussalam Ahmed Lutfe Mohamad
Published: April 2022

COVID‐19 has created one of the world's worst pandemics and is associated with various life‐threatening complications and infections, possibly due to various internal and external host factors. Cytomegalovirus (CMV) coinfection is one of those infections. We present a challenging case of severe COVID‐19 infection managed in our ICU care facility with concomitant CMV infection. We aim to highlight the significance of early diagnosis and prompt management for a better outcome.
Two‐Dimensional Covalent and Supramolecular Polymers: From Monolayer to Bilayer and the Thicker
Authors: Yu Shang‐Bo , Lin Furong , Tian Jia , Liu Yi , Zhang Dan‐Wei , Li Zhan‐Ting
Published: April 2022

Selective preparation of two‐dimensional polymers (2DPs) and supramolecular polymers (2DSPs) with defined thickness is crucially important for controlling and maximizing their functions, yet it has remained as a synthetic challenge. In the past decade, several approaches have been developed to allow selective preparation of discrete monolayer 2DPs and 2DSPs. Recently, crystal exfoliation and self‐assembly strategies have been employed to successfully prepare bilayer 2DP and 2DSP, which represent the first step towards the controlled “growth” of 2D polymers from the thinnest monolayers to thicker few‐layers along the third dimension. This Concept review discusses the concept of accurate synthesis of 2D polymers with defined layers. Advances in this research area will pave the way to rational synthetic strategies for 2D polymers with controlled thickness.
Combining Functional Prototyping of 3D Printed Reactors with a Modular Reactor Setup for Continuous Emulsion Polymerization
Authors: Zentel Kristina M. , Reinbeck Andreas , Deckert Christian , Pauer Werner , Luinstra Gerrit A.
Published: April 2022

The potential for fast and specific process optimization by functional prototyping with 3D printed reactors was shown for a known continuous emulsion polymerization in a modular setup. Three tubular reactors, two with static mixing elements and a continuously stirred tank reactor (CSTR) were printed from polylactic acid. Thermal imaging of the reactors allows to map the basically adiabatic progress of the redox‐started radical polymerization in a space‐resolved way. The application of static mixing elements led to a higher conversion stability and a more uniform product, as expected for a better mass transfer. Polymerization in combinations of CSTR and a tubular reactor showed further improvements of process stability and product uniformity in terms of particle size and mol masses.
Stereoselective Synthesis of a Tetrasaccharide Fragment from Rhamnogalacturonan II Side Chain A
Authors: Lei Jin‐Cai , Jiang Yuan‐Yuan , Xia Yi‐Fei , Fang Qing , Duan Shi‐Chao , Ruan Yu‐Xiong , Yang Jin‐Song
Published: April 2022

Comprehensive Summary

An efficient synthesis of a complex tetrasaccharide fragment 1 structurally related to rhamnogalacturonan II side chain A has been accomplished through a stepwise glycosylation strategy. Challenges involved in the synthesis include the facile construction of the sterically crowded l‐fucopyranose core and the stereoselective formation of two 1,2‐cis‐glycosidic linkages. The 3,4‐disubstituted l‐fucopyranoside structure was successfully constructed through a ‘counterclockwise’ glycosylation sequence, namely, the less reactive axial 4‐OH group of the central fucose unit was glycosylated first, then the 3‐OH. Besides, a 2‐pyridinecarbonyl‐assisted α‐d‐xylosylation was developed to synthesize the α‐d‐xylopyranosidic linkage and a 3,4‐O‐benzoyl‐controlled α‐l‐galactosylation reaction was used for the stereoselective synthesis of the corresponding α‐l‐galactopyranosidic linkage.
Computer‐Aided Design of Fluorinated Flavin Derivatives by Modulation of Intersystem Crossing and Fluorescence
Authors: Bracker Mario , Kubitz Mira K. , Czekelius Constantin , Marian Christel M. , Kleinschmidt Martin
Published: April 2022

This study aims at finding fluorinated flavin derivatives with modified intersystem crossing (ISC) and fluorescence properties. In total, photophysical properties of 8 derivatives were investigated computationally using combined density functional theory and multireference configuration interaction methods. On top of a screening procedure, the excited‐state decay mechanisms of selected chromophores were investigated in detail. Kinetic schemes including fluorescence, ISC as well as internal conversion (IC) channels were set up to unravel the complex excited‐state decay kinetics. We find two chromophores that exhibit promising properties with respect to fluorescence microscopy. Distinctive stabilization of the brightππ* state results in absorption in the green wavelength region and emission of (infra‐)red light. The1(πHπL)⤳3(πH–1πL) ISC channel of the flavin chromophore was found to be deactivated upon both modifications, but nonradiative deactivation of the fluorescence by IC appears to be a problem. Alternative modifications of the pteridine dione moiety were found to result in a marked stabilization ofnπ* states along with activation of El‐Sayed allowed ISC channels. For the latter two compounds, we predict fluorescence to be quenched by ISC followed by efficient population of the long‐livedstate via IC.
Cyclin C: A new responser for chemosensitivity in cancer
Authors: Fang Shuai , Jin Xiaofeng , Zhou Chengwei , Gong Zhaohui
Published: April 2022

The resistance to cisplatin‐based chemotherapy is a common cause of poor prognosis in cancer patients. Cisplatin stimulation causes cyclin C translocating to mitochondria, and in turn induces mitochondrial fission. However, little is known about the role of cyclin C in mitochondrial dysfunction in cancer cells challenged with cisplatin. In the present commentary, we bring to the attention of readers the recent report by Jiang et al which revealed the importance of ubiquitylation and translocation of cyclin C in gastric cancer cells in response to cisplatin stimulation for mitochondrial stability. This finding provides new insights into exploring the novel mechanisms of chemoresistance and developing the new chemotherapy synergistic agents in the era of precision oncology.
Epicardial adipose tissue related to left atrial and ventricular function in heart failure with preserved versus reduced and mildly reduced ejection fraction
Authors: Jin Xuanyi , Hung Chung‐Lieh , Tay Wan Ting , Soon Dinna , Sim David , Sung Kuo‐Tzu , Loh Seet Yoong , Lee Sheldonn , Jaufeerally Fazlur , Ling Lieng Hsi , Richards A Mark , van Melle Joost P. , Voors Adriaan A. , Lam Carolyn S.P.
Published: April 2022

Aim

Different associations between epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) and cardiac function have been suggested in patients with heart failure with preserved (HFpEF) versus reduced and mildly reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF/HFmrEF). However, few studies have directly compared the association between EAT and left atrial (LA) and left ventricular (LV) function in patients with HFpEF and HFrEF/HFmrEF.

Methods and results

We studied EAT thickness using transthoracic echocardiography in a multicentre cohort of 149 community‐dwelling controls without heart failure, 99 patients with HFpEF, and 366 patients with HFrEF/HFmrEF. EAT thickness was averaged from parasternal long‐axis and short‐axis views, respectively, and off‐line speckle tracking analysis was performed to quantify LA and LV function. Data were validated in an independent cohort of 626 controls, 243 patients with HFpEF, and 180 patients with HFrEF/HFmrEF. For LV function, LV global longitudinal strain (GLS) was measured in both derivation and validation cohorts. For LA function, LAGLS at reservoir, contractile and conduit phase were measured in the derivation cohort, and only LAGLS at reservoir phase was measured in the validation cohort. In the derivation cohort, EAT thickness was lower in HFrEF/HFmrEF (7.3 ± 2.5 mm) compared to HFpEF (8.3 ± 2.6 mm, p < 0.05) and controls (7.9 ± 1.8 mm, p < 0.05). Greater EAT thickness was associated with better LV and contractile LA function in HFrEF/HFmrEF, but not in HFpEF (p for interaction <0.05). These findings were confirmed in the validation cohort, where EAT thickness was lower in HFrEF/HFmrEF (6.7 ± 1.4 mm) compared to HFpEF (9.6 ± 2.8 mm; p < 0.05) and controls (7.7 ± 2.3 mm; p < 0.05). Greater EAT thickness was associated with better LV and reservoir LA function in patients with HFrEF/HFmrEF but worse LV and reservoir LA function in patients with HFpEF (p for interaction <0.05). Thickened EAT (EAT thickness >10 mm) was associated with LA dysfunction (LAGLS at reservoir phase <23%) in HFpEF, but not in HFrEF/HFmrEF.

Conclusion

Epicardial adipose tissue thickness is greater in patients with HFpEF than HFrEF/HFmrEF. Increased EAT thickness is associated with worse LA and LV function in HFpEF but the opposite in HFrEF/HFmrEF.
Electrochemical Sensing of Dopamine and Epinephrine Using Self‐assembled Fe3O4 Magnetic Nanoparticles on a Pyridine‐grafted Glassy Carbon Electrode
Authors: Mahanta Abhinandan , Akond Umme Solaem , Barman Koushik , Jasimuddin Sk.
Published: April 2022

A magnetic nanomaterial based electrochemical sensor was developed by immobilizing Fe3O4 nanoparticles (ca. 12 nm d.) on a pyridine molecule grafted glassy carbon electrode (Py‐GCE) for the selective and sensitive determination of two important neurotransmitters, dopamine (DA) and epinephrine (EP) at neutral pH. The synthesised Fe3O4 magnetic nanoparticleswere characterized by FTIR, UV‐Vis, TEM, XRD and XPS methods, whereas thefabricated electrodeswere characterized by using SEM, ATR‐FTIR, CV and EIS techniques. Differential pulse voltammetry was used for the determination of DA and EP in the linear range of 0.2 to 1.2 μM with the detection limits (S/N=3) of 0.34 nM and 0.61 nM, respectively. The sensor electrode exhibited high stability, reproducibility, good selectivity in the presence of potential interfering agents viz. ascorbic acid, uric acid, citric acid, glucose, etc. Theproposed method was successfully applied for the simultaneous determination of DA and EP in human blood sample and the recovery result was excellent.
Joint Effects of Fragmentation and Mercury Contamination on Marsh Periwinkle (Littoraria irrorata) Movement
Authors: Krull Marcos , Newman Michael C.
Published: April 2022

There are different ways contaminants can interact and enhance the effects of habitat fragmentation, such as modifying the movement of organisms. The present study tested the hypothesis that mercury exacerbates the effects of fragmentation by affecting the movement of the marsh periwinkle Littoraria irrorata and reducing the probability of snails crossing fragmented microlandscape experimental systems. How these changes could affect the search efficiency of organisms in the long term was assessed using hidden Markov models and random walks simulations. Bayesian nonlinear models were used to analyze the effects of fragmentation and contamination on the mean speed and mean directional change of organisms. Snail movement for control and two mercury-exposure treatments were recorded in microlandscapes with six different levels of habitat cover and three landscape replicates. The results indicated that exposed organisms had lower probabilities of crossing the landscape, reduced speed, and shifts in step length distributions. Both mercury exposure and habitat fragmentation affected the movement of the marsh periwinkle. Mercury exacerbated the effects of habitat fragmentation by affecting the cognition (e.g., route planning, orientation, and spatial learning) and movement of L. irrorata. Hence, the interaction of these stressors could further reduce the functional connectivity of landscapes and reduce the search efficiency of organisms. Environ Toxicol Chem 2022;41:1742–1753. © 2022 The Authors. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of SETAC.
Overnight volatility, realized volatility, and option pricing
Authors: Wang Tianyi , Cheng Sicong , Yin Fangsheng , Yu Mei
Published: April 2022

The equity market is not trading around the clock, and the overnight information has been proved be important for understanding pricing anomalies, improving volatility forecasting accuracy, and so forth. However, there is little research investigating its impact on option pricing. In this paper, we provide a framework that integrates intraday, overnight returns, and realized volatility simultaneously within an augmented Autoregressive Volatility model. The analytical option‐pricing formula for the new model is derived through the closed‐form moment generation function. The empirical results based on S&P 500 index options show that distinguishing the overnight component from daily returns has the potential capability to reduce the pricing errors, both in‐sample and out‐of‐sample.
Functional adaptation of glial cells at neuromuscular junctions in response to injury
Authors: Perez‐Gonzalez Anna P. , Provost Frédéric , Rousse Isabelle , Piovesana Roberta , Benzina Ouafa , Darabid Houssam , Lamoureux Benoit , Wang Yu Shi , Arbour Danielle , Robitaille Richard
Published: April 2022

Synaptic elements from neuromuscular junctions (NMJs) undergo massive morphological and functional changes upon nerve injury. While morphological changes of NMJ‐associated glia in response to injury has been investigated, their functional properties remain elusive. Perisynaptic Schwann cells (PSCs), glial cells at the NMJ, are essential for NMJ maintenance and repair, and are involved in synaptic efficacy and plasticity. Importantly, these functions are regulated by PSCs ability to detect synaptic transmission through, notably, muscarinic (mAChRs) and purinergic receptors' activation. Using Ca2+ imaging and electrophysiological recordings of synaptic transmission at the mouse NMJ, we investigated PSC receptors activation following denervation and during reinnervation in adults and at denervated NMJs in an ALS mouse model (SOD1G37R). We observed reduced PSCs mAChR‐mediated Ca2+ responses at denervated and reinnervating NMJs. Importantly, PSC phenotypes during denervation and reinnervation were distinct than the one observed during NMJ maturation. At denervated NMJs, exogenous activation of mAChRs greatly diminished galectin‐3 expression, a glial marker of phagocytosis. PSCs Ca2+ responses at reinnervating NMJs did not correlate with the number of innervating axons or process extensions. Interestingly, we observed an extended period of reduced PSC mAChRs activation after the injury (up to 60 days), suggesting a glial memory of injury. PSCs associated with denervated NMJs in an ALS model (SOD1G37R mice) did not show any muscarinic adaptation, a phenotype incompatible with NMJ repair. Understanding functional mechanisms that underlie this glial response to injury may contribute to favor complete NMJ and motor recovery.
The orbitofrontal cortex represents advantageous choice in the Iowa gambling task
Authors: Zha Rujing , Li Peng , Liu Ying , Alarefi Abdulqawi , Zhang Xiaochu , Li Jun
Published: April 2022

A good‐based model, the central neurobiological model of economic decision‐making, proposes that the orbitofrontal cortex (OFC) represents binary choice outcome, that is, the chosen good. A good is defined by a group of determinants characterizing the conditions in which the commodity is offered, including commodity type, cost, risk, time delay, and ambiguity. Previous studies have found that the OFC represents the binary choice outcome in decision‐making tasks involving commodity type, cost, risk, and delay. Real‐life decisions are often complex and involve uncertainty, rewards, and penalties; however, whether the OFC represents binary choice outcomes in a complex decision‐making situation, for example, Iowa gambling task (IGT), remains unclear. Here, we propose that the OFC represents binary choice outcome, that is, advantageous choice versus disadvantageous choice, in the IGT. We propose two hypotheses: first, the activity pattern in the human OFC represents an advantageous choice; and second, choice induces an OFC‐related functional network. Using functional magnetic resonance imaging and advanced machine‐learning tools, we found that the OFC represented an advantageous choice in the IGT. The OFC representation of advantageous choice was related to decision‐making performance. Choice modulated the functional connectivity between the OFC and the superior medial gyrus. In conclusion, the OFC represents an advantageous choice during the IGT. In the framework of a good‐based model, the results extend the role of the OFC to complex decision‐making situation when making a binary choice.
Correcting for discounting and loss aversion in composite time trade‐off
Authors: Lipman Stefan A. , Attema Arthur E. , Versteegh Matthijs M.
Published: April 2022

Time trade‐off utilities have been suggested to be biased upwards. This bias is a result of the method being applied assuming linear utility of life duration, which is violated when individuals discount future life years or are loss averse for health. Applying a “corrective approach”, that is, measuring individuals' discount function and loss aversion and correcting time trade‐off utilities for these individual characteristics, may reduce this bias in utilities. Earlier work has developed this approach for time trade‐off in a student sample. In this study, the corrective approach was extended to composite time trade‐off (cTTO) methodology, which enabled correcting utilities for health states worse than dead. In digital interviews a sample of 150 members of the general public completed cTTO tasks for six health states, and afterward they completed measurements of loss aversion and discounting. cTTO utilities were corrected using these measurements under multiple specifications. Respondents were also asked to reflect on and adjust their cTTO utilities directly. Our results show considerable loss aversion and both positive and negative discounting were prevalent. As predicted, correction generally resulted in lower utilities. This was in accordance with the direction of adjustments made by respondents themselves.
Entropy analysis in a second‐grade nanoliquid influenced by an exponential space‐dependent heat source and Arrhenius activation energy
Authors: Subbarao K. , Elangovan K. , Gangadhar Kotha
Published: April 2022

Addressing the second‐grade nanofluid flow over a porous stretching sheet based on entropy generation is done in this study. In the mathematical modeling, the revised Buongiorno model is utilized. Employing exponential space‐dependent heat generation and Heat transfer subject to melting effect is implemented. Energy and concentration expressions are retained based on the impact of activation energy, Joule heating, nonlinear thermal radiation, and viscous dissipation. Implementation of solutions for a standard transformation, governing equations, and the numerical procedure is done. Several governing parameters are discussed based on the effect of comprehensive effects of the flow region. A thicker thermal boundary layer is obtained by increasing the magnetic strength and Brownian movement. Thermophoresis increases similarly while the trend takes place, and for the melting parameter, the reverse order is noted. Melting parameter increases with increase in entropy generation rate and Brinkman number increases with reduction in Bejan number. In the literature, it is found that the situation is limited for the obtained results in the model. Higher entropy generation rates are exhibited for the demonstration of magnetic force. From the results, it is observed that the design parameters will consequently optimize the heat transfer in the assessment of industrial processes.
Towards a metabolomic approach to investigate iron–sulfur cluster biogenesis
Authors: Marengo Mauro , Fissore Alex , Oliaro‐Bosso Simonetta , Adinolfi Salvatore , Pastore Annalisa
Published: April 2022

Iron–sulfur clusters are prosthetic groups that are assembled on their acceptor proteins through a complex machine centered on a desulfurase enzyme and a transient scaffold protein. Studies to establish the mechanism of cluster formation have so far used either in vitro or in vivo methods, which have often resulted in contrasting or non‐comparable results. We suggest, here, an alternative approach to study the enzymatic reaction, that is based on the combination of genetically engineered bacterial strains depleted of specific components, and the detection of the enzymatic kinetics in cellular extracts through metabolomics. Our data prove that this ex vivo approach closely reproduces the in vitro results while retaining the full complexity of the system. We demonstrate that co‐presence of bacterial frataxin and iron is necessary to observe an inhibitory effect of the enzymatic activity of bacterial frataxin. Our approach provides a new powerful tool for the study of iron–sulfur cluster biogenesis.
Impact of SARS‐CoV‐2 Mu variant on vaccine effectiveness: A comparative genomics study at the peak of the third wave in Bogota, Colombia
Authors: Ramirez Angie L. , Luna Nicolas , Patiño Luz H. , Castañeda Sergio , Muñoz Marina , Ballesteros Nathalia , Perez Julie , Correa‐Cárdenas Camilo A. , Duque Maria Clara , Mendez Claudia , Oliveros Carolina , Paniz‐Mondolfi Alberto E. , Ramírez Juan David
Published: April 2022

We assessed the circulation of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus‐2 variants amongst vaccinated military personnel in Bogotá, Colombia to evaluate the mutations of certain variants and their potential for breakthrough infection in vaccinated subjects. We observed that in vaccinated individuals the most frequent infecting lineage was Mu (B.1.621 and B.1.621.1). The above is possibly associated with specific mutations that confer it with vaccine‐induced immune escape ability. Our findings highlight the importance of how genomic tracking coupled with epidemiological surveillance can assist in the study of novel emerging variants (e.g., Omicron) and their impact on vaccination efforts worldwide.
Combining Raman spectroscopy and synchrotron X‐ray diffraction to unveil the order types in A3CaNb2O9 (A = Ba, Sr) complex perovskites
Authors: Rodrigues João Elias F. S. , Costa Renilton C. , Pizani Paulo S. , Hernandes Antonio C. , Alonso José A.
Published: April 2022

The structural ordering process in complex perovskites has a pivotal role for tuning many physical properties for broad applications, ranging from microwave technology, proton‐conduction, multiferroicity, and so on. Therefore, the characterization of order type in these materials is essential for designing new devices with high‐performance. Here, the coexistence of B‐site 1:1 and 1:2 order types in mixed ordered A3CaNb2O9 (A = Ba, Sr) perovskite was investigated by combining Raman spectroscopy and high‐resolution synchrotron X‐ray powder diffraction. High‐wavenumber interval 700–825 cm−1 exhibits two bands concerning the symmetric breathing modes of [NbO6] octahedra in A3CaNb2O9, which were ascribed to the 1:1 and 1:2 domain regions in coexistence. This model was fully corroborated using two phases for describing the synchrotron X‐ray pattern of the Ba3CaNb2O9 sample. Therefore, the Raman spectroscopy can be indeed applied as a rapid tool for probing the achievement of ordered, partially ordered, or disordered structures in complex perovskites. For the first time, BaLaCaNbO6 was synthesized and structural characterized, being indexed by the monoclinic unit cell belonging to the space group
.
Influence of Grading on Management and Outcome in Mucoepidermoid Carcinoma of the Parotid—A Multi‐institutional Analysis
Authors: Grasl Stefan , Janik Stefan , Faisal Muhammad , Grasl Matthaeus C. , Pammer Johannes , Weinreb Ilan , Fischer Gregor , Kim John , Hosni Ali , de Almeida John R. , Goldstein David P. , Erovic Boban M.
Published: April 2022

Objective

To evaluate clinical outcome of low (G1), intermediate (G2), and high‐(G3) grade mucoepidermoid carcinomas (MEC) of the parotid gland.

Study Design

Retrospective chart review including 212 patients. Clinicopathological data was statistically analyzed regarding grading, overall survival (OS), disease‐free survival (DFS) and disease‐specific survival (DSS).

Results

105 (49.5%) G1, 73 (34.5%) G2, and 34 (16%) G3 MEC were included and 56 (26.4%) patients presented with neck node metastases. The risk of occult nodal metastases was significantly associated with grading and increased from 9.2% in G1 to 26.7% and 27.8% in G2 and G3 tumors, respectively (p = 0.008). Elective periparotid and cervical lymph node dissection was performed in 170 (80.2%) and 70 (33%) patients, respectively. All patients with positive periparotid nodes when subjected to an additional neck dissection had associated cervical neck node involvement (p < 0.001). Grading was an independent significant prognostic factor for OS (HR 4.05; 95%CI: 1.15–14.35; p = 0.030) and DSS (HR 17.35; 95%CI: 1.10–273.53; p = 0.043). In a subgroup analysis, elective neck dissection (END) was also significantly associated with a better DFS (p = 0.041) in neck node‐negative G1 MECs.

Conclusion

The risk of occult nodal metastasis in intermediate‐grade MEC is as high as in high‐grade MEC and that END in G1 tumors is associated with a prolonged DFS. Additionally, periparotid node involvement seems to be a predictor for positive neck node involvement. This study presents some preliminary data to consider END in clinically neck node negative patients with parotid MEC; however, larger series are needed.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 133:124–132, 2023
A parallel universe: Challenges for an international journal based in Russia
Authors: Rushby Nick
Published: April 2022

Key points

Editing a Russian journal revealed differences in scientific behaviour, particularly around plagiarism.

All editorial efforts to develop a high quality journal can be rapidly dismantled by external forces and world politics.

The Ukrainian invasion is likely to return Russian science to the isolation of 40 years ago.

The ability of journals to operate independently is heavily influenced by national and international politics which pose an existential threat to journals.

Academic journals can be used as a means of exercising soft political power and the ability of editors to circumnavigate or challenge this are severely limited.
APPLYING THE SUCCESS FACTOR FOR ORGANIZATIONAL LEADERSHIP
Authors: Gotian Ruth
Published: April 2022

The author details the results of many years studying high achievers in a variety of fields, including conducting more than 100 interviews, both in person and remotely. The group of interviewees included chief executive officers/CEOs, Olympic and NBA/National Basketball Association athletes, astronauts, and Nobel Prize winners. The results are in the author’s new book The Success Factor, and the findings are abstracted here. The four mindsets (not habits) common to all are intrinsic motivation, work ethic, strong foundation, and continuous Learning through informal learning. These high achievers are incredibly important to an organization. She writes that “High achievers produce 400% more than an average employee, as noted by researchers Ernest O’Boyle Jr. and Herman Aguinis, in a 2012 Personnel Psychology article, yet are given the least attention.” She also describes senior, junior, and peer mentors, as well as group mentoring. Some leadership lessons from this research, in her words are, Offer opportunities for exposure, provide autonomy, create advancement pathways, and offer further training. The author concludes that “knowing how to cultivate and lead these top performers will make your organization the go‐to place for those who wish to be supported on their ascension to success.”
LEADING THROUGH MANAGEMENT AS A LIBERAL ART
Authors: Linkletter Karen
Published: April 2022

The author, who studied under Peter Drucker, is Research Director of the Management as a Liberal Art Research Institute. The organization’s roots are in Drucker’s construct of Management as a Liberal Art, which is described in detail. The author contends that “Drucker’s process of seeing discrete, disruptive events as part of a larger picture or process can be an incredibly useful tool to leaders, particularly in our current challenging times.” Within these MLA principles, four areas in particular are discussed, which in the author’s words are: The Human Dimension, Legitimate Power and Authority, Values, and Balancing Change and Continuity. She also discusses four current organizational challenges within this context; in her words: Labor/Staffing Challenges, Need for Flexibility, Changing Values, and Productivity Challenges. Table 1, MLA Principles and Practices, includes recommendations for today’s leaders (in her words): Avoid drastic and rapid change, Take a step back and look at the forest, Foster a culture of trust in climate of pivoting, Revisit personal and organizational values, and Rethink technology and productivity. Context remains important. As she writes, “Although the pandemic created enormous turmoil in labor markets across the globe, there is evidence that worker supply problems began before any lockdowns and re‐openings.”
Phosphorus‐Containing Fluoro‐Sulfonated Polytriazole Membranes with High Proton Conductivity: Understanding Microstructural and Thermomechanical Behaviors as a Function of Degree of Sulfonation
Authors: Ghorai Arijit , Banerjee Susanta
Published: April 2022

The current article describes the design and synthesis of a new series of phosphorus‐containing fluoro‐sulfonated polytriazoles through click polymerization. The synthesized copolytriazoles (PTPFDSH‐70 to 90) with different degrees of sulfonation (DS) from 70% to 90% are structurally interpreted by various spectroscopic techniques (1H, 13C, and FTIR). The high molecular weight (weight average molecular weight as high as 77 500 g mol−1 with polydispersity index of 2.29) polymers exhibits excellent mechanical (elongation at break up to 95%), thermal (10% decomposition temperature: 266–317 °C), and oxidative (>14.5 h) stability. The PTPFDSH‐70 to 90 possess outstanding water‐holding ability in hydrated conditions (swelling ratio [in‐plane]: 6.2–7.3% at 80 °C). The microstructural alterations by their thermal relaxations and transitions with increasing DS in the polymers have been thoroughly investigated by dynamic mechanical analysis. The atomic force microscopy and transmission electron microscope images of the PTPFDSH‐70 to 90 polymer membranes demonstrated the phase segregated interconnected ionic cluster‐like morphology between hydrophilic and hydrophobic domains. The PTPFDSH‐90 (DEB:PFAZ:DSAZ = 100:10:90) polymer membrane displays the proton conductivity (176 and 190 ms cm−1 at 80 and 90 °C, respectively) higher than Nafion117 under similar test conditions.
Bifurcation, sensitivity, and optimal control analysis of onchocerciasis disease transmission model with two groups of infectives and saturated treatment function
Authors: Ogunmiloro Oluwatayo Michael , Idowu Amos Sesan
Published: April 2022

A model depicting the transmission of onchocerciasis disease in human host community with two distinct groups of infected humans exhibiting low and high microfilariae (mf) output with saturated treatment function is developed and analyzed. The model equilibrium solutions are obtained, and it is found that the model exhibits forward bifurcation and the effective basic reproduction number
governing the spread of the disease is computed by the use of the next generation matrix method. The sensitivity results of model parameters reveal that the rates describing the recruitment of humans, blackflies, onchocerciasis disease transmission, and the biting rate of blackflies are positively sensitive to
, which necessitate the need for controls to be implemented in order to curtail the infectious contact between humans and blackflies in the host environment. To this effect, the model is further transformed into an optimal control problem by applying control strategies of personal protection of using treated bednets and wearing of permethrin‐treated cloths
, surgical care for humans with body deformation and impaired vision
, education campaign
, and the use of insecticide
, respectively. The existence and uniqueness of the optimal control model are established, and the Pontryagin maximum principle (PMP) is employed to characterize the controls. The optimal control model is solved using the Runge–Kutta numerical scheme via MATLAB, and the simulations under different control combinations show that each of the controls have its own effect in minimizing onchocerciasis transmission, but the combined effects of the four control strategies proved to be more beneficial towards the elimination of the disease in human and blackfly host community. Also, the simulations of the control profiles reveal that each of these controls are sustained at maximum until 3 months before gradually declining to zero in terminal time
of 12 months.
Matching ICD‐11 personality status to clinical management in a community team—The Boston (UK) Personality Project: Study protocol
Authors: Jha Mithilesh , Barrett Barbara , Brewin Chris , Bowker Geoff , Harwood Nick , Jalil Iram , Crawford Mike , Phull Jaspreet , Allen Katherine , Duggan Conor , Yang Min , Tyrer Peter
Published: April 2022

Epidemiological studies show 30% to 50% of all patients in community mental health teams have personality disorders. These are normally comorbid with other psychiatric disorders, often as Galenic syndromes, and are seldom identified. In the Boston (UK) Personality Project all patients under a community health service in Boston in Lincolnshire will be asked to agree to have their personality status assessed using scales recording the new ICD‐11 classification, together with clinical ratings, social function and satisfaction. A control group of 100 patients from an adjacent service of similar demographics (Spalding) will also have similar ratings but no personality assessments. Changes in clinical status, social function and service satisfaction will be made after 6 and 12 months in both groups. The patients in the Boston group will be offered matched interventions using a stepped care approach for both the severity of disorder and its domain structure. These interventions will include shorter versions of existing psychological treatments, environmental therapies including nidotherapy, adaptive and acceptance models, drug reduction and social prescribing. Full costs of psychiatric care will be measured in both groups. The main hypothesis is that greater awareness of personality function will lead to better clinical outcomes and satisfaction.
Multiscale MD simulations of wild‐type and sickle hemoglobin aggregation
Authors: Olagunju Maryam O. , Loschwitz Jennifer , Olubiyi Olujide O. , Strodel Birgit
Published: April 2022

Sickle cell disease is a hemoglobinopathy resulting from a point mutation from glutamate to valine at position six of the β‐globin chains of hemoglobin. This mutation gives rise to pathological aggregation of the sickle hemoglobin and, as a result, impaired oxygen binding, misshapen and short‐lived erythrocytes, and anemia. We aim to understand the structural effects caused by the single Glu6Val mutation leading to protein aggregation. To this end, we perform multiscale molecular dynamics simulations employing atomistic and coarse‐grained models of both wild‐type and sickle hemoglobin. We analyze the dynamics of hemoglobin monomers and dimers, study the aggregation of wild‐type and sickle hemoglobin into decamers, and analyze the protein–protein interactions in the resulting aggregates. We find that the aggregation of sickle hemoglobin is driven by both hydrophobic and electrostatic protein–protein interactions involving the mutation site and surrounding residues, leading to an extended interaction area and thus stable aggregates. The wild‐type protein can also self‐assemble, which, however, results from isolated interprotein salt bridges that do not yield stable aggregates. This knowledge can be exploited for the development of sickle hemoglobin‐aggregation inhibitors.
The Effect of Be Co‐Doping on Luminescence Properties of Gd3Al3Ga2O12:Ce Glass Ceramics
Authors: Tratsiak Yauhen , Trusova Ekateryna , Buryi Maksym , Babin Vladimir , Dominec Filip , Hájek František , Malashkevich Georgii
Published: April 2022

The glass‐ceramics (GC) of gadolinium aluminum gallium garnets with the expected composition of Gd3Al3Ga2O12:Ce and Gd3Al3Ga2O12:Ce,Be (GAGG:Ce and GAGG:Ce,Be, respectively) are fabricated by crystallization from the Gd2O3–Al2O3–Ga2O3–CeO2–SiO2–BeO (Gd:Ga:Al ratio is close to 3:2:3) glasses. The influence of Be2+co‐doping (including doping level) on the luminescent properties of the GAGG is demonstrated. In particular, Be co‐doping results in the suppression of the Ce3+‐related radioluminescence (RL) and as a consequence, the light yield is lowered as well. The conclusion is made that Be2+creates effective electron or hole trapping centers.
Distributed fixed‐time optimization for multi‐agent systems with time‐varying objective function
Authors: Li Yue , He Xing , Xia Dawen
Published: April 2022

In this article, a distributed time‐varying convex optimization problem for multi‐agent systems is studied. The goal of this article is to use only the local information and interaction information of each agent to drive all agents to achieve consensus and minimize the time‐varying global objective function within a fixed time. In order to solve this problem, a centralized fixed‐time algorithm based on predictive correction method is proposed, which can optimize the time‐varying global objective function based on global information within a fixed time. Then, based on the distributed average tracking method, the centralized algorithm is improved to a distributed fixed‐time algorithm based on local information. The theoretical analysis ensures that the algorithms in this article can solve the time‐varying optimization problem in a fixed time, and numerical examples are proposed to verify the effectiveness of algorithms. Finally, the distributed algorithm is applied to solve battery packages problem.
Phase Variation of Ultrathin WO3 Electron‐Transport Layer Prepared by Scalable Langmuir–Blodgett Technique to Boost Efficiency of Dye Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Saxena Vibha , Bhagat Navjyoti , Choudhury Sipra , Mahajan Aman , Singh Ajay
Published: April 2022

In third‐generation solar cells, dye sensitized (DSCs) and perovskite (PSCs) both, the role of electron‐transport layers (ETLs) is to block hole transfer at fluorine‐doped tin oxide/mesoporous TiO2 interface, while efficiently transporting the electron at this interface. Conventional solution‐processed dense anatase TiO2 ETL is limited by its low electron mobility. WO3, despite having higher electron mobility and chemical stability, has seldom been used as ETL in DSCs/PSCs, owing to poor crystalline structure and interfacial charge transfer in ETLs prepared using existing methods. Herein this paper, ultrathin and uniform WO3 films of different crystalline structures, such as tetragonal (t‐), orthorhombic (o−), hexagonal (h−), and monoclinic (m−), prepared by scalable Langmuir–Blodgett method, are reported. The efficiency (η) of DSCs fabricated with ETL having high‐symmetry phases of WO3 (h‐WO3, o‐WO3, t‐WO3) is found to exceed the efficiency of devices having ETL of low‐symmetry WO3 phase (m‐WO3). Further, highest η ≈ 9.53%, tantamount to an improvement of 13%, is found in DSCs fabricated with ETL having a mixed phase of o‐ and t‐WO3 and surpassed η of devices based on TiO2 ETLs (8.4%). Herein, the role of structure/phase of WO3 ETLs toward enhancing device performance and outperforming the conventional TiO2 ETLs‐based DSCs is highlighted.