bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A latent class model to multiply impute missing treatment indicators in observational studies when inferences of the treatment effect are made using propensity score matching
Authors: Mitra Robin
Published: November 2022

Analysts often estimate treatment effects in observational studies using propensity score matching techniques. When there are missing covariate values, analysts can multiply impute the missing data to createmcompleted data sets. Analysts can then estimate propensity scores on each of the completed data sets, and use these to estimate treatment effects. However, there has been relatively little attention on developing imputation models to deal with the additional problem of missing treatment indicators, perhaps due to the consequences of generating implausible imputations. However, simply ignoring the missing treatment values, akin to a complete case analysis, could also lead to problems when estimating treatment effects. We propose a latent class model to multiply impute missing treatment indicators. We illustrate its performance through simulations and with data taken from a study on determinants of children's cognitive development. This approach is seen to obtain treatment effect estimates closer to the true treatment effect than when employing conventional imputation procedures as well as compared to a complete case analysis.
Application Tool for Power System Analysis in Education and Research
Authors: Arnaout Mohammad , Chahine Khaled , Koubayssi Ali , Mrad Andre
Published: November 2022

Application tools are increasingly being used in lectures to give computer simulation users a friendly and visual way to specify all input parameters with more configuration flexibility. The analysis and simulation of small to large‐scale electric power systems are done in this study using a software program called Application Tool for Power System (ATPS), which is based on MATLAB APP and Simulink. Anyone can look at the internal workings of ATPS, which is open‐source software, to learn how to code a power engineering problem. Due to its ease of use and adaptability, it is designed to be a simulation tool for researchers and educators. Power flow, stability, faults, economic dispatch, unit commitment, and time‐domain simulation analysis are all topics that are covered by ATPS methods. Additionally, classroom use has shown that the suggested software package helps to consolidate a better knowledge of power system problems.
Efficacy of adjuvant chemotherapy/maintenance chemotherapy after induction chemotherapy and concurrent chemoradiotherapy in patients with locoregionally advanced nasopharyngeal carcinoma: Experiences of two centers
Authors: Tao Hao‐Yun , He Fang , Shi Qi‐Yun , Liu Ran , Wang Zhi‐Long , Du Kun‐Peng , Li Jian‐Feng , Liu Hui , Lu Zhi‐Qiang , Zhang Jing‐Jing , Bai Yu‐Hai
Published: November 2022

Background and Objective

In general, there are not many studies exploring the clinical value of adjuvant chemotherapy or maintenance chemotherapy (AC/MC) after induction chemotherapy and concurrent chemoradiotherapy (IC+CCRT+AC/MC). The purpose of this study was to establish a clinical nomogram for the use of AC/MC in patients with locoregionally advanced nasopharyngeal carcinoma (LA‐NPC).

Material and Methods

Two centers (Guangzhou Medical University Cancer Center [N = 1226] and Zhongshan People's Hospital [N = 150]) recruited 1376 patients with LA‐NPC. All the patients underwent IC+CCRT; 560 patients received AC with cisplatin/nedaplatin plus docetaxel/paclitaxel (TP) or cisplatin/nedaplatin plus fluorouracil (PF), and 81 patients received MC with S‐1. Multivariate Cox regression was used to confirm optimal predictors of progression‐free survival (PFS), and a nomogram was established to identify patients into low‐risk and high‐risk cohorts. Additionally, bootstrap internal validation was performed to further verify our nomogram.

Results

After propensity score matching (PSM), the survival curves were not statistically different between IC+CCRT+AC/MC and IC+CCRT (all p > 0.05). Then, a nomogram was developed based on variables that were screened by univariate and multivariate Cox regression, including N stage, cumulative platinum dose during CCRT, body mass index (BMI), IC cycles, IC regimen and cervical lymph node (CLN) necrosis and infiltration of adjacent tissues. The results of the nomogram showed that the high‐risk cohort had greatly worse 5‐year DMFS, LRFS, PFS and OS compared to low‐risk cohort (all p < 0.05), and subgroup analysis found that the 5‐year DMFS, PFS and OS of patients treated with IC+CCRT+AC/MC were better than those treated with IC+CCRT in high‐risk cohort (all p < 0.05). Notably, the incidence of adverse effects for IC+CCRT+AC cohort was higher than that for IC+CCRT+MC cohort, especially leukocytopenia and neutropenia. IC+CCRT and IC+CCRT+MC were associated with similar incidences of adverse effects.

Conclusions

The addition of AC or MC to IC+CCRT could improve the DMFS of patients with high‐risk NPC and prolong their survival. Additionally, our findings suggest a potential role of AC/MC following IC plus CCRT in the treatment of high‐risk LA‐NPC.
Pineapple Lectin AcmJRL Binds SARS‐CoV‐2 Spike Protein in a Carbohydrate‐Dependent Fashion**
Authors: Meiers Joscha , Dastbaz Jan , Adam Sebastian , Rasheed Sari , Kirsch Susanne H. , Meiser Peter , Gross Peter , Müller Rolf , Titz Alexander
Published: November 2022

The highly glycosylated spike protein of SARS‐CoV‐2 is essential for infection and constitutes a prime target for antiviral agents and vaccines. The pineapple‐derived jacalin‐related lectin AcmJRL is present in the medication bromelain in significant quantities and has previously been described to bind mannosides. Here, we performed a large ligand screening of AcmJRL by glycan array analysis, quantified the interaction with carbohydrates and validated high‐mannose glycans as preferred ligands. Because the SARS‐CoV‐2 spike protein was previously reported to carry a high proportion of high‐mannose N‐glycans, we tested the binding of AcmJRL to the recombinantly produced extraviral domain of spike protein. We could demonstrate that AcmJRL binds the spike protein with a low‐micromolar KD in a carbohydrate‐dependent fashion.
Comprehensive Characterization of an “Off/On” Rhodol‐Based Lysosomal Tracker for Orthogonal Cellular Analysis by Confocal Imaging
Authors: Chieffo Carolina , Altamura Emiliano , Trad Layth Ben , Pilet Guillaume , Maniti Ofelia , Granjon Thierry , Mebarek Saida , Strazewski Peter , Fiore Michele
Published: November 2022

Two florescent xanthene‐cyanamide lysosomal trackers emitting strongly at ∼525 nm were prepared from fluorescein and rhodol methyl esters in microwave‐assisted reactions. Both forms named “off” (nonfluorescent lactam) and “on” (strongly fluorescent ring‐opened amide) have been comprehensively characterized out by using a combination of NMR spectroscopy, X‐ray analysis, fluorimetry and confocal microscopy. Known rhodamines bearing electron‐withdrawing groups (EWGs) exhibit an equilibrium between non‐fluorescent (off) and fluorescent (on) depending on the dielectric constant of the medium. Here, cyanamide was introduced as EWG amine into the fluorescein and rhodol framework. Unlike rhodamine‐type dyes, the ring‐opened forms of fluorescein‐ and rhodol‐cyanamides are stable in protic solvents under circumneutral and basic pH conditions. The osteoblastic cell line MC3T3‐E1 from C57BL/6 mouse calvaria was used for confocal imaging where the different organelles and nuclei were distinguished by using an orthogonal combination of fluorescent dyes.
Delayed diagnosis of intraplacental choriocarcinoma in a term healthy neonate—A case report and literature review
Authors: Azizi Mahdokht , Akbarzade‐Jahromi Mojgan , Ghaffari Parvin , Ramezani Mazaher
Published: November 2022

Gestational choriocarcinoma is rare. The intraplacental formation of choriocarcinoma is much rarer. We present a diagnosis of choriocarcinoma, 4 months postpartum, in a 28‐year‐old, presenting with vaginal bleeding. Three weeks after the last chemotherapy session, the patient's β‐HCG titer was normal and did not require hysterectomy.
Superior vena cava syndrome in a child with mediastinal mass: A case report
Authors: Rijal Ashes , Shrestha Anish , Chaudhary Sharmila , Shrestha Anisha
Published: November 2022

Facial puffiness as a consequence of superior vena cava syndrome (SVCS) can be a presentation from which the physician would have to conjecture a diagnosis of a mediastinal mass including lymphomas. Pediatric SVCS can rapidly progress and pose a greater challenge for airway protection as was in our case.
Emission and Luminescent Vapochromism Control of Octahedral Cu4I4 Complexes by Conformationally Restricted P,N Ligands
Authors: Strelnik Igor , Shamsieva Aliia , Akhmadgaleev Kamil , Gerasimova Tatiana , Dayanova Irina , Kolesnikov Ilya , Fayzullin Robert , Islamov Daut , Musina Elvira , Karasik Andrey , Sinyashin Oleg
Published: November 2022

A conformationally restricted P,N‐ligand capable of the design of polynuclear copper(I) complexes was synthesized via the reaction of primary pyridylphosphine, paraformaldehyde, and benzhydrylamine. The reaction of the ligand with copper(I) iodide leads to the tetranuclear copper(I) complex with the octahedral type of copper‐iodide core. Different orientation of coordination bonds of the ligands relative to the P,N2‐heterocyclic fragments and to the Cu4I4 cores leads to the existence of two types of conformers of the complex with “compact” or “stretched” geometry of the Cu4I4 cluster. This lability of the complex allowed for obtaining two crystalline phases displaying green or red luminescence. The TDDFT computations along with XRD structural analysis gave a strong interpretation of the green emission belonging to the “compact” form of the complex and belonging of the red emission to the “stretched” form. Moreover, both crystalline phases demonstrate the strong vapochromic responses of luminescence on the vapors of wide range of solvents.
C‐Terminal Lipidation of SARS‐CoV‐2 Fusion Peptide Reinstates Superior Membrane Fusion Catalytic Ability
Authors: Sardar Avijit , Bera Tapas , Kumar Samal Santosh , Dewangan Nikesh , Kamble Mithila , Guha Samit , Tarafdar Pradip K.
Published: November 2022

The spike (S) protein of severe acute respiratory syndrome‐associated coronavirus‐2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) mediates a critical stage in infection, the fusion between viral and host membranes. The protein is categorized as a class I viral fusion protein and has two distinct cleavage sites that can be activated by proteases. The activation deploys the fusion peptide (FP) for insertion into the target cell membranes. Recent studies including our experiments showed that the FP was unable to modulate the kinetics of fusion at a low peptide‐to‐lipid ratio akin to the spike density at the viral surface. Therefore, we modified the C terminus of FP and attached a myristoyl chain (C‐myr‐FP) to restrict the C terminus near to the interface, bridge both membranes, and increase the effective local concentration. The lipidated FP (C‐myr‐FP) of SARS‐CoV‐2 greatly accelerates membrane fusion at a low peptide‐to‐lipid ratio as compared to the FP with no lipidation. Biophysical experiments suggest that C‐myr‐FP adopts a helical structure, perturbs the membrane interface, and increases water penetration to catalyze fusion. Scrambled peptide (C‐myr‐sFP) and truncated peptide (C‐myr‐8FP) could not significantly catalyze the fusion, thus suggesting the important role of myristoylation and the N terminus. C‐myr‐FP enhances murine coronavirus infection by promoting syncytia formation in L2 cells. The C‐terminal lipidation of the FP might be a useful strategy to induce artificial fusion in biomedical applications.
Maintaining Sacred Identities: How Religious Anti‐Consumption Conflicts with Culture
Authors: Rauf Ateeq Abdul , Prasad Ajnesh
Published: November 2022

Drawing on in‐depth interview data from an Islamic orthodox social movement in Pakistan, we investigate how participants invoke religious ideology to forge anti‐consumption behaviour in opposition to prevailing cultural norms. We identify anti‐consumption behaviour fuelled by foreign values, foreign lifestyles, Islamic values, and Islamic lifestyles. Coloured by a value system that steers them toward a distinct Islamic lifestyle and away from alternatives, our religious participants effuse sensibilities of spiritual propriety into their (anti‐)consumption choices. Our study contributes to the understanding of how religious anti‐consumption, in the face of countervailing alternatives, reinforces a specific religious identity in consumers.
Size Effects in Gas‐phase C−H Activation
Authors: Yuan Bowei , Tang Shi‐Ya , Zhou Shaodong
Published: November 2022

The gas‐phase clusters reaction permits addressing fundamental aspects of the challenges related to C−H activation. The size effect plays a key role in the activation processes as it may substantially affect both the reactivity and selectivity. In this paper, we reviewed the size effect related to the hydrocarbon oxidation by early transition metal oxides and main group metal oxides, methane activation mediated by late transition metals. Based on mass‐spectrometry experiments in conjunction with quantum chemical calculations, mechanistic discussions were reviewed to present how and why the size greatly regulates the reactivity and product distribution.
Intrinsically Chiral Twist‐Bend Nematogens: Interplay of Molecular and Structural Chirality in the NTB Phase
Authors: Walker Rebecca , Pociecha Damian , Salamonczyk Miroslaw , Storey John M. D. , Gorecka Ewa , Imrie Corrie T.
Published: November 2022

Non‐symmetric lactate‐based chiral liquid crystal dimers containing an odd‐membered spacer are shown to exhibit a chiral twist‐bend nematic phase which is stable on cooling to room temperature. A comparison of racemic and optically pure materials reveals that the pitch length in the N*TB phase is not influenced by molecular chirality, whereas the nematic‐twist‐bend nematic transition temperature is increased.
Anti‐thymocyte globulin‐mediated immunosenescent alterations of T cells in kidney transplant patients
Authors: Lee Ga Hye , Lee Jee Youn , Jang Jiyeon , Kang Yeon Jun , Choi Seung Ah , Kim Hyeon Chang , Park Sungha , Kim Myoung Soo , Lee Won‐Woo
Published: November 2022

Objectives

Kidney transplant (KT) is the most effective treatment for end‐stage renal disease. The immunosuppressant anti‐thymocyte globulin (ATG) has been applied for induction therapy to reduce the risk of acute transplant rejection for patients at high immunological risk. Despite its putative role in replicative stress during immune reconstitution, the effects of ATG on T‐cell immunosenescent changes remain to be understood.

Methods

Phenotypic and functional features of senescent T cells were examined by flow cytometry in 116 healthy controls (HC) and 95 KT patients for comparative analysis according to ATG treatment and CMV reactivation. The TCR repertoire was analysed in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of KT patients.

Results

T cells of KT patients treated with ATG (ATG+) show typical immunosenescent features, accumulation of CD28−, CD85j+ or CD57+ T cells, and imbalance of functional T‐cell subsets, compared with untreated KT patients (ATG−). Plasma IL‐15 and CMV‐IgG levels were higher in KT patients than in HCs, and the IL‐15 level positively correlated with the frequency of CD28− T cells in KT patients. ATG+ patients had a higher prevalence of CMV reactivation, which is associated with an increased frequency of CD28− T cells. As a result, ATG+ patients had expanded CMV‐specific T cells and decreased TCR diversity. However, proliferation, cytokine‐producing capacity and polyfunctionality of T cells were preserved in ATG+ patients.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that ATG treatment contributes to the accumulation of senescent T cells, which may have lifelong clinical implications in KT patients. Thus, these patients require long‐term and comprehensive immune monitoring.
Using eDNA to estimate biomass of bycatch in pelagic fisheries
Authors: Urban Paulina , Bekkevold Dorte , Hansen Brian Klitgaard , Jacobsen Magnus Wulff , Nielsen Anders , Nielsen Einar Eg
Published: November 2022

In recent years, the analysis of environmental DNA (eDNA) has significantly improved, allowing for high‐resolution species identification and possible biomass quantification from water samples. Fisheries management typically requires monitoring of catches, including precise information about bycatch quantities to make sound assessments of exploitation rates. Bycatch assessment is particularly challenging in large catches (>500 T), and the current practice of visual assessment of subsampled catches is time‐consuming, requires extensive labor, and often has low precision. We explored the feasibility for applying eDNA‐based methods for studying catch composition using the pelagic North Sea herring fishery with bycatch of mackerel as a case. First, we experimentally simulate a series of catches using a range of herring and mackerel weight proportions to establish relationships under real fisheries scenarios. The relationship is subsequently used to estimate the biomass of mackerel bycatch from eDNA from three herring catches, by sampling and comparing processing water both onboard ships and at the processing factory. All samples are analyzed using species‐specific quantitative PCR (qPCR). The experiments reveled a strong correlation between DNA and weight fractions characterized by a constant overrepresentation of mackerel DNA compared to expected mackerel weight. We found that eDNA‐based and visual methods applied to the same landing reflect the within catch variability in species composition alike, however, the methods can show disparity in total estimates of mackerel biomass. Accounting for haul mixing within total landed catches increases the precision of the factory and ship eDNA‐based estimates for the same catch. We show that eDNA‐based bycatch estimates provide coherent quantitative data, and likely improve quality and reduce costs of collecting fisheries‐dependent data and thereby contribute to securing sustainable fisheries.
Dehydrogenative α‐Oxygenation of Cyclic Ethers by a High‐Valent Manganese(IV)‐Oxo Species
Authors: Mubarak M. Qadri E. , Saqib Ali Hafiz , Zhou Jimei , Li Chaoqun , Xiao Jianliang , de Visser Sam P.
Published: November 2022

High‐valent metal‐oxo species are typical catalytic cycle intermediates in mono‐oxygenases and dioxygenases and commonly react through oxygen atom transfer to substrates. In this work we study a biomimetic model complex with a 1,1’‐bis((3,5‐dimethylpyridin‐2‐yl)methyl)‐2,2’‐bipiperidine ligand system bound to a manganese(IV)‐oxo(hydroxo) species and study its formation from manganese(II)‐hydroxo and H2O2as well as its reaction with (S)‐1‐phenylisochromane through dehydrogenative α‐oxygenation. The work utilizes density functional theory methods to explore its catalytic cycle and its reactivity patterns. We show that the manganese(IV)‐oxo(hydroxo) species is an active oxidant and preferentially the oxo group abstracts a hydrogen atom from substrate with barriers well lower in energy than those found for hydrogen atom abstraction by the hydroxo group. Interestingly, the rate‐determining step is the OH rebound rather than the hydrogen atom abstraction, which would imply they would have limited kinetic isotope effect for the replacement of the transferring hydrogen atom by deuterium.
Synthetic Studies to Fused 5/5/6‐Tricyclic Frameworks: Access to Presilphiperfolanol Analogues and A, B, C‐Ring System of Lycopodium Alkaloids and Cyclopiane Diterpenes
Authors: Kotha Sambasivarao , Keesari Ramakrishna Reddy
Published: November 2022

Herein, we describe new synthetic approaches to fused 5/5/6‐carbocyclic frameworks present in various polycyclic natural products such as presilphiperfolanols, lycopodium alkaloids, and cyclopiane diterpenes. Our work features, a strategically introduced hydroxy group at thetert‐carbon center of the tricyclic system which is present in presilphiperfolanols. In addition, one presilphiperfolanol analogue is reported to show the potential of strategies disclosed in this work. All the new compounds are characterized by high‐resolution NMR spectral data. The structures of critical compounds were confirmed by various chemical transformations and further supported by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction data. Overall, our approach is simple and rely on readily available starting materials and involves a tandem‐metathesis sequence. The synthetic studies disclosed here are applicable to the synthesis of natural products and to design medicinally important targets.
Characterization of trajectories and drag coefficients of large wood in sharp river bends from flume experiments
Authors: Innocenti Lorenzo , Branß Till , Zaid Bahaeldeen , Aberle Jochen , Solari Luca
Published: November 2022

The transport of large wood (LW) has been a focus of research in the last decades because of its importance for river ecosystems, fluvial dynamics and flood protection. Riverine processes connected with the presence of LW have largely been based on laboratory experiments carried out in straight or weakly bended channels. The dynamics of LW in sharp river bends has received less attention, so there exist many open questions regarding how LW is transported through such channel parts. For this reason, this paper presents results of unique laboratory experiments designed to study the trajectories of single wooden dowels in sharp bends. Dowel trajectories were determined for four dowel sizes, two initial dowel orientations with respect to the main channel axis and three inlet positions. Information about the 3D velocity field in the bend were obtained from a previous study that used the same channel with identical hydraulic boundary conditions. Furthermore, a force‐balance analysis was developed for interpreting the dowel trajectory and drag coefficient of LW in sharp river bends. The experimental results show that the dowel length is the main parameter controlling dowel trajectory in a sharp bend, and indicate the role of inertial effects that drive the dowel drift along the bend. The obtained drag coefficients ranged between 0.35 and 1, which is in agreement with previous values for submerged, or semi‐submerged, fixed pieces of wood in straight river reaches.
Inverse Bonding – Backbonding: Metal to Ligand σ and Ligand to Metal π Dative Interactions between Bismuth and Boron
Authors: Blahman Alex , Kozuch Sebastian
Published: November 2022

There are many types of coordinating bond types, but an inverse bonding‐backbonding (IBBB) with a metal to ligand σ donation and a ligand to metal π backdonation (a “σZ‐πL” interaction) is unheard of. Herein we computationally describe one such case based on a borabenzene ligand and a bismuth pincer complex. We believe that IBBB involving d orbitals in transition metals is impossible, but a π charge transfer to a post‐transition metal empty p orbital can do the trick.
Photoaffinity Labeling Chemistries Used to Map Biomolecular Interactions
Authors: West Alexander V. , Woo Christina M.
Published: November 2022

Photoaffinity labeling (PAL) is one of the few biochemical techniques that can give direct evidence of biomolecular interactions in cells. Several photoactivatable functional groups have been adapted for use in PAL since its first implementation. The diversity of these chemistries has expanded the scope and fidelity of PAL experiments, but also increased the considerations during PAL probe design. In this review, we describe the major chemistries used in PAL experiments and their relative benefits and disadvantages. We additionally discuss recent examples of PAL experiments and provide recommendations on how to design a PAL probe.
The effects of boron‐supplemented diets on adipogenesis‐related gene expressions, anti‐inflammatory, and antioxidative response in high‐fat fed rats
Authors: Kucukkurt Ismail , Ince Sinan , Eryavuz Abdullah , Demirel Hasan H. , Arslan‐Acaroz Damla , Zemheri‐Navruz Fahriye , Durmus Ibrahim
Published: November 2022

The fatty liver syndrome caused by nutritional factors is a common cause of hepatic dysfunction globally. This research was designed to study the shielding effect of boron in rats fed a diet having high fat. Overall, 40 Wistar albino male rats were placed into one control and four treatment groups, that is, each having eight rats. Group I was provided with a standard rat diet while group II was only provided a high‐fat diet for 60 days. Groups III, IV, and V were provided with 5, 10, and 20 mg/kg/day boron, respectively, by gastric gavage besides a high‐fat diet for 60 days. Malondialdehyde was increased significantly in rats' blood and tissue because of high‐fat diets. Glutathione was decreased significantly in blood and tissues because of a high‐fat diet. Moreover, the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) were decreased in the blood and tissues of the high‐fat‐fed rats. The genes expression for C‐reactive protein, interleukin‐1β, leptin, and tumor necrosis factor‐α were increased while gene expression for peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptors was decreased in the liver of rats fed with a high‐fat diet. Contrariwise, boron supplementation improves antioxidative response in terms of increased SOD and CAT activities, gene expression regulation, and improved anti‐inflammatory activities. In a nutshell, boron has dose‐dependent shielding antioxidative and tissue regenerative effects in rats.
Protective effect of resveratrol against pembrolizumab‐induced hepatotoxicity and neurotoxicity in male rats
Authors: Türkmen Neşe B. , Yüce Hande , Şahin Yasemin , Taşlıdere Aslı Ç. , Özek Dilan A. , Ünüvar Songül , Çiftçi Osman
Published: November 2022

The present study investigates the effects of resveratrol (RSV) on brain and liver tissues in rats with pembrolizumab (PEMB)‐induced toxicity. Obtained for the study were 28 male Sprague‐Dawley rats (3–4 months old) which were divided into four groups: Group 1: Control. Group 2: Administered PEMB at 5 mg/kg/day i.p. for a week. Group 3: Administered RSV orally at the dose of 20 mg/kg/day for 30 days by gavage. Group 4: Administered PEMB and RSV at 20 and 5 mg/kg/day RSV, respectively, for 30 days. The results of this study revealed that PEMB leads to a significant increase in thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS) levels and a significant decrease in glutathione peroxidase (GPx), catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities, and glutathione (GSH) levels in the liver and brain tissues. The decreased SOD, CAT, GPx activities, and GSH levels increased significantly following RSV treatment in Group 4. The PEMB treatment showed histopathological alterations associated with strong positive cysteinyl aspartic acid‐protease‐3 (caspase‐3) immunoreactivity, while RSV treatment reduced both the expression of caspase‐3 protein and the histopathological changes. RSV administration prevents the biochemical, immunological, and histological alterations induced by PEMB. It can be suggested that the lower caspase‐3 immunoreactivity in the PEMB + RSV group than in the PEMB group led to an inhibition of RSV on apoptosis.
Psychometric properties of the Purpose In Life‐Short Form in the Spanish population
Authors: Rubio‐Belmonte César , Mayordomo Rodríguez Teresa , García‐Alandete Joaquín
Published: November 2022

The aim of this study was to analyze the psychometric properties of the Purpose in Life Test‐Short Form (PIL‐SF), a brief self‐report measure of the presence of meaning in life (MiL). Participants were 349 nonclinical Spanish undergraduates (225 women, 64.5%, and 124 men, 35.5%), age ranged between 18 and 26 years (M = 20.85; SD = 2.16). The PIL‐SF, the Seeking of Noetic Goals‐8 Items (SONG‐8), the Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS), and the Oxford Happiness Questionnaire (OHQ) were used. Descriptive analysis, estimation of the internal consistency, and Confirmatory Factor Analysis of the PIL‐SF were conducted, and correlations between the PIL‐SF and the SONG‐8, the SWLS, and the OHQ were calculated. The PIL‐SF showed good internal consistency and an excellent fit as a unidimensional scale confirming its factorial structure. Regarding construct validity, correlations between the PIL‐SF and SWLS (r= 0.59) and OHQ (r = 0.56) were positive, significant (p < 0.001), while correlation between PIL‐SF and SONG‐8 was negative, significant (r = −0.23, p < 0.001). The Spanish adaptation of PIL‐SF seems to be a valid measure of MiL with good internal consistency.
Morphological relationships between vertebrate claw unguals and sheaths and the functional morphology of these structures
Authors: Thomson Tracy J. , Motani Ryosuke
Published: November 2022

The link between claw morphology and function has been historically difficult to quantify, analyze, and interpret. A confounding factor is the ambiguous morphological relationship between the ungual and the sheath and whether one structure or the other is more useful for inferring function from morphology. In this study, the functional morphology of vertebrate claws is analyzed using sheath and ungual measurements taken from modern claw specimens spanning birds and mammals. Claw measurements were chosen for their potential biomechanical significance and a revised, expanded categorization of claw function is used. When corresponding claw measurements from the ungual and sheath are compared independently, some features are highly correlated whereas others are not. A principal component analysis of the claw measurements reveals that some of the morphological disparity is related to functional differences; however, different functional categories are not clearly separated based solely on morphology. A linear discriminant analysis incorporating a supervised dimensionality reduction method (J‐function) successfully classifies 94.52% of the claw specimens to their documented functional categories. When the posterior probabilities of each classification are examined, and the next highest probabilities are considered, the analysis can successfully classify 98.63% of the claw specimens. Sheath measurements perform better than ungual measurements but combining measurements from both structures perform better than considering either structure individually. Both structures contribute valuable morphological information when it comes to inferring claw function from morphology.
Impact of combination preventative interventions on hospitalization and death under the pandemic of SARS‐CoV‐2 Omicron variant in China
Authors: Lin Yi‐Fan , Wu Xinsheng , Li Yuwei , Bian Junye , Li Kuibiao , Jiang Yawen , Lu Zhen , Zhang Bing , Yang Chongguang , Sun Caijun , Sun Litao , Zou Huachun
Published: November 2022

With a large population most susceptible to Omicron and emerging SARS‐CoV‐2 variants, China faces uncertain scenarios if reopening its border. Thus, we aimed to predict the impact of combination preventative interventions on hospitalization and death. An age‐stratified susceptible‐infectious‐quarantined‐hospitalized‐removed‐susceptible (SIQHRS) model based on the new guidelines of COVID‐19 diagnosis and treatment (the ninth edition) was constructed to simulate the transmission dynamics of Omicron within 365 days. At baseline, we assumed no interventions other than 60% booster vaccination in individuals aged ≤60 years and 80% in individuals aged >60 years, quarantine and hospitalization. Oral antiviral medications for COVID‐19 and nonpharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) such as social distancing and antigen self‐testing were considered in subsequent scenarios. Sensitivity analyses were conducted to reflect different levels of interventions. A total of 0.73 billion cumulative quarantines (95% CI 0.53–0.83), 33.59 million hospitalizations (22.41–39.31), and 0.62 million deaths (0.40–0.75) are expected in 365 days. The case fatality rate with pneumonia symptoms (moderate, severe and critical illness) is expected to be 1.83% (1.68–1.99%) and the infected fatality rate is 0.38‰ (0.33–0.4‰). The highest existing hospitalization and ICU occupations are 3.11 (0.30–3.85) and 20.33 (2.01–25.20) times of capacity, respectively. Sensitivity analysis showed that interventions can be adjusted to meet certain conditions to reduce the total number of infections and deaths. In conclusion, after sufficient respiratory and ICU beds are prepared and the relaxed NPIs are in place, the SARS‐CoV‐2 Omicron variant would not seriously impact the health system.
Viral reactivation in the lungs of patients with severe pneumonia is associated with increased mortality, a multicenter, retrospective study
Authors: Huang Lingtong , Zhang Xuan , Pang Lisha , Sheng Peng , Wang Yanqiu , Yang Fan , Yu Huili , Huang Xiaohan , Zhu Yue , Zhang Ning , Cai Hongliu , Tang Lingling , Fang Xueling
Published: November 2022

Viral reactivation is widespread in patients with severe pneumonia, yet the landscape of viral reactivation in the lungs is not well‐known. This study aims to assess the landscape and clinical features of viral reactivation in the early onset of severe pneumonia in ICU patients. The clinical data from 97 patients were collected retrospectively from the intensive care units of five teaching hospitals between June 2018 and July 2021. Metagenomic next‐generation sequencing (mNGS) of the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) was performed at the onset of severe pneumonia. Cytomegalovirus (CMV), herpes simplex virus‐1 (HSV‐1), and Epstein‐Barr virus (EBV) were the most common reactivated viruses in the lower respiratory tract of patients with severe pneumonia. After adjusting for the risk of confounding and competition of age, sex, sequential organ failure assessment, acute physiology chronic health assessment II and immunosuppression status, viral reactivation resulted in an overall 2.052‐fold increase in 28‐day all‐cause mortality (95% CI: 1.004–4.194). This study showed that CMV, HSV‐1, and EBV were the most common reactivated viruses in the lungs of patients with severe pneumonia. The existence of viral reactivations was associated with an increased risk of mortality. The simultaneous reactivation of multiple viruses needs to be considered in the design of clinical trials.
Relationship between Antarctic Sea ice and the variability of March to May precipitation in Tanzania
Authors: Makula Exavery Kisesa , Zhou Botao
Published: November 2022

This study investigates the relationship between the Antarctic sea ice concentration (SIC) and the precipitation variability in Tanzania during March to May (MAM) season from 1978 to 2017. It is found that the MAM SIC over the Weddell (Ross) sea is negatively correlated with the MAM precipitation, particularly over northern (southern) Tanzania, signifying that the high (low) MAM SIC over the Weddell (Ross) sea is associated with suppressed (enhanced) rainfall in Tanzania. The atmospheric circulations related to the MAM SIC anomalies were further analysed. It is revealed that the positive MAM SIC anomalies in the Weddell sea and the Ross sea are associated with the upper‐level wave train patterns propagating from the high latitudes to the low latitudes of the Southern Hemisphere, which results in anomalous upper‐level cyclonic circulation over the western Indian Ocean and Tanzania. The upper‐level cyclonic circulation anomaly favours the low‐level divergence and results in the subsidence over Tanzania. Moreover, the low‐level wind outflow over Tanzania due to divergence reduces the water vapour supply to Tanzania. This background is unfavourable for the occurrence of precipitation and thus decreases the precipitation in Tanzania. The situation is reversed for the negative MAM SIC anomalies over the Weddell sea and the Ross sea, conducive to the increase of precipitation over Tanzania.
Cucumis melo seed oil: agro‐food by‐product with natural anti‐hyperlipidemic potential
Authors: Shafi Afshan , Farooq Umar , Akram Kashif , Majeed Hamid , Hakim Ayesha , Jayasinghe Madhura
Published: November 2022

BACKGROUND

Sweet melon (Cucumis melo) seed is generally considered as agro‐waste, however, the current study aimed to use this waste as a valuable oil source. The seed oil extracted by two different extraction techniques (cold press and solvent extraction) was investigated for its anti‐hyperlipidemic potential. Hyperlipidemic rabbits were fed on the diet supplemented with sweet melon seed oil for 6 weeks (42 days) and thoroughly examined for the change in their lipid profile.

RESULTS

The blood lipid profile indicated a significant decrease in total cholesterol triglyceride and low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) contents of blood in hyperlipidemic rabbits fed on the diet supplemented with sweet melon seed oils while high‐density lipoprotein (HDL) contents showed a noteworthy increase during the study period.

CONCLUSION

Cucumis melo seed oil can be used to control hyperlipidemia without restricting the intake of lipids in diet. Solvent extraction provided better results regarding extraction yield and product functionality than cold press method. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Primary radiation therapy for advanced‐stage laryngeal cancer: A laryngo‐esophageal dysfunction disease‐free survival
Authors: Mohamad Issa , Almousa Abdelatif , Taqash Ayat , Mayta Ebrahim , Abuhijla Fawzi , Ghatasheh Hamza , Ababneh Hazem , Wahbeh Lina , Abuhijlih Ramiz , Hussein Tariq , Al‐Gargaz Wisam , Hosni Ali
Published: November 2022

Objectives

To evaluate the outcomes of advanced‐stage laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) patients treated with functional‐preservation strategy with a specific focus on laryngo‐esophageal dysfunction disease‐free survival (LEDDFS).

Methods and materials

A retrospective review was conducted of stage III‐IVB laryngeal SCC patients who were treated with curative‐intent radiotherapy (RT) (2007–2018). Patients were preferentially managed with upfront chemoradiation (CCRT); except for those with cN2‐3, cT4, or large volume cT3 (induction chemotherapy followed by RT or CCRT is an option), and those who were unfit or declined chemotherapy (received altered RT). The primary endpoint was 3‐year LEDDFS, and secondary endpoints were 3‐year local failure (LF), regional failure (RF), distant metastasis (DM), overall survival (OS), disease‐free survival (DFS), and acute and late toxicities. Cox proportional hazard tests were used for multivariable analysis (MVA).

Results

A total of 213 cases were included. With a median follow‐up of 37 months, the 3‐year LEDDFS was 50%, while the 3‐year OS, DFS, LF, RF, and DM were 81%, 74%, 9%, 5%, and 7%, respectively. On MVA, cT4‐category was the only predictor of inferior LEDDFS (HR: 0.47, [95% CI: 0.29–0.74], p < .01). The most common grade ≥ 3 acute and late radiation therapy oncology group (RTOG) toxicity were esophageal toxicity: 16.7% and 29.6%, respectively.

Conclusions

Primary RT resulted in favorable oncologic and functional outcomes in only half of the advanced‐stage laryngeal cancer patients. Future clinical trials are required to investigate further treatment options aiming to improve the oncologic and maintain functional outcomes with utilization of LEDDFS as the primary endpoint.

Level of evidence

4.
Optimization of frying process for maintaining nutritional quality to satisfy consumers' sensory attributes: A novel application of multi‐criteria decision‐making approach
Authors: Sadhu Tithli , Lahiri Sandip Kumar , Roy Jagannath , Bhattacharjee Ashish , Chakrabarty Jitamanyu
Published: November 2022

The objective of the study was to assess the optimum frying condition of fish considering the multiple perspectives (retention of nutritional quality indices [NQI], reduction of preparation time, and improvement of health benefit) to satisfy consumer‐preferred sensory attributes by controlling the most impactful process variables (temperature, time, and oil amount). The multi‐criteria decision‐making (MCDM) approach is appropriate to handle the numerous conflicting criteria and numerous multiple objectives. First, an artificial neural network (ANN) model was developed to build a non‐linear correlation between the cooking process parameters and NQI by an automatic exhaustive search of all available algorithms and activation functions. All the NQI are conflicting in nature. Therefore, the ANN‐based multi‐objective genetic algorithm was implemented to obtain the Pareto optimal solutions to improve all NQI simultaneously. Five optimised conditions were selected amongst the Pareto optimal solutions, satisfying the above‐mentioned multiple criteria. Finally, a well‐known MCDM approach, the analytical hierarchy process (AHP), was applied for sensory analysis to evaluate the overall acceptance of the optimised conditions based on the relative importance of consumers' general sensory modalities (flavour, colour & appearance, and taste). Furthermore, the following condition (140.01°C, 7.62 min, 47.87 ml oil/kg of fish) was selected as the most accepted in terms of all quality attributes that may be implemented as the standard condition in domestic and industrial purposes.
Physiological and Behavioral Effects of Angling Stress on Kelp Bass, an Important Game Fish in Southern California
Authors: McGarigal Caitlin R. , Lowe Christopher G.
Published: November 2022

Game fish populations in North America face increasing pressure from recreational anglers, yet sublethal effects from mandatory catch-and-release regulations remain unknown for many targeted species. In southern California, Kelp Bass Paralabrax clathratus populations have significantly declined in recent decades, prompting changes in management and increasing release rates. To assess acute effects of current fishing regulations, we collaborated with recreational anglers to evaluate short-term, sublethal impacts of capture stress on Kelp Bass physiology and behavior. To evaluate the timeline and magnitude of physiological stress, blood samples were collected at time points (10–120 min) after angling and confinement and compared to control fish sampled in less than 3 min. Postrelease recovery was determined by comparing biomarker levels between control fish and recaptured fish that were rapidly sampled after a time at liberty ranging from 3 h to 186 d. Biomarker levels in fish recaptured multiple times were compared to previous samples to evaluate repetitive angling effects on physiological responses. Circulating cortisol, glucose, and lactate were elevated and steadily increased in the hour after capture, although angling duration and handling duration were not correlated with biomarker response. Fish size significantly affected fish stress, with larger fish experiencing less stress and rapid recovery within 24 h. Behavioral control fish, which ingested acoustic accelerometers hidden inside bait, exhibited strong diel activity that was reduced for 30 h in angled fish. Tracked individuals exhibited high individual variation in rate of movement and area use, with no noticeable postrelease impacts. Although this study found Kelp Bass to be resilient to angling stresses, evaluation of long-term effects from catch and release is warranted. This fishery may also benefit from slot limit regulations, improved angler engagement programs, and education on best practices that minimize fish stress during catch and release.
Penoscrotal defect reconstruction using loco‐regional flaps in treatment of extramammary Paget's disease: Experience and suggestion of a simplified algorithm
Authors: Kim Woo‐Ju , Kim Su‐Hwan , Sung Hyun‐Hwan , Lee Kyeong‐Tae , Pyon Jai‐Kyong
Published: November 2022

Background

Reconstruction of penoscrotal defects resulted from margin‐controlled excision of extramammary Paget's disease (EMPD) remains challenging, due to its unpredictably varying extents. The present study aimed to investigate outcomes of reconstruction of penoscrotal defects following radical excision of EMPD and to introduce a simplified algorithm for selecting reconstruction strategies.

Methods

Patients with penoscrotal EMPD who were treated with wide excision and subsequent reconstruction from 2009 to 2020 were reviewed. Their demographics, operation‐related characteristics, and postoperative outcomes were evaluated.

Results

In total, 46 patients with a mean age of 64.9 years (range, 44–85 years) were analyzed. An average size of defects was 129.6 cm2 (range, 8–900 cm2). The most frequently involving anatomical subunit was scrotum, followed by suprapubic area and penile shaft. Twenty‐six patients had defects spanning multiple subunits. The most commonly used reconstruction methods for each anatomical subunit were internal pudendal artery perforator (IPAP) flaps and/or scrotal flaps for scrotal defects, superficial external pudendal artery perforator (SEPAP) flaps for suprapubic defects, and skin grafts for penile defects. In all but four cases, successful reconstruction was achieved with combination of those reconstruction options. No major complications developed except for one case of marginal flap necrosis. All patients were satisfied with their aesthetic and functional results.

Conclusions

Diverse penoscrotal defects following excision of EMPD could be solidly reconstructed with combination of several loco‐regional options. A simplified algorithm using in combination of IPAP flap, SEPAP flap, scrotal flap, and skin graft may enable efficient and reliable reconstruction of penoscrotal EMPD defects.
Hybrid continuous inverse class‐F high‐efficiency power amplifier based on phase shift analysis
Authors: Song Kaijun , He Aoke , Li Qian
Published: November 2022

In this paper, a hybrid continuous inverse class‐F high‐efficiency power amplifier based on phase shift analysis is proposed. A broadband and high‐efficiency microwave power amplifier are designed by adopting load pull, source pull technique, and low‐pass filter matching structure. The measured results show that the drain efficiency ranges from 67.5% to 77.8%, the saturated output power ranges from 40.2 to 42.4 dBm, and the saturated power gain ranges from 10.2 to 12.4 dB in the working frequency band from 2 to 3 GHz. The power amplifier proposed in this paper fits the current broadband microwave communication technology and plays an important role in the transmission of high data flow signals by wireless transmitters.
The impact of the post‐ COVID 19 pandemic elective waiting list delays on patient reported symptoms and intention to proceed with planned upper limb surgeries—A prospective cohort study
Authors: Sibanda Vusumuzi , Anazor Fitzgerald Chukwuemeka , Bhadresha Ashwin , Altaf Kalsoom , De Chiranjit , Relwani Jai
Published: November 2022

Introduction

The aim of this study was to evaluate patient reported outcome measures using the EQ5D‐5L and EQ5D‐5L visual analogue scale (VAS) following elective shoulder and elbow orthopaedic list delays. This was further correlated with patients' intention to proceed with the planned surgery.

Methods

Patients on the waiting list for more than 26 weeks were included in the study. Telephone interviews were conducted utilising the EQ5D‐5L and the EQ5D‐5L VAS at the time of addition to the waiting list and presently.

Results

75 out of 324 screened patients were eligible. 62 (82.7%) patients still wanted to proceed with their planned procedure while 13 (17.3%) patients in the other group no longer wanted to proceed. There was no statistically significant difference in the mean age, gender, initial trial of conservative treatment and limb laterality between these groups (p < 0.05). There was a statistically significant difference in the mean duration of being on the waiting list between these groups (40.4 ± 19 vs. 62.9 ± 17.5 weeks respectively). Furthermore, statistically significant differences (p < 0.05) in the current EQ5D‐5L VAS scores were observed between these groups (52.4 vs. 65.8 respectively).

Conclusion

This study has shown that majority of patients on elective shoulder and elbow orthopaedic lists with prolonged waiting list delays and improved EQ5D‐5L scores are likely to decline the planned procedure and vice versa. Nevertheless, the unplanned ‘watchful waiting’ caused by the COVID‐19 pandemic and leading to patients deciding to decline surgery, is not a substitute for timely planned surgery to alleviate patients' suffering.