bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nanomedicines Targeting Respiratory Injuries for Pulmonary Disease Management
Authors: Liu Dong , Long Mengmeng , Gao Leilei , Chen Yanjun , Li Fang , Shi Yang , Gu Ning
Published: March 2022

The respiratory system holds crucial importance in the biology of vertebrate animals. Injuries of the respiratory system caused by viral infections (e.g., by COVID‐19, MERS, and SARS) can lead to severe or lethal conditions. So far there are no effective treatments for respiratory injuries. This represents a highly unmet clinical need, e.g., during the current COVID‐19 pandemic. Nanomedicines have high potential in the treatment of respiratory injuries. In this review, the pathology and clinical treatments of major respiratory injuries, acute lung injury, and acute respiratory distress syndrome are briefly summarized. The review primarily focuses on nanomedicines based on liposomes, solid lipid nanoparticles, polymeric nanoparticles, and inorganic nanoparticles, which are tested in preclinical models for the treatment of respiratory injuries. These nanomedicines are utilized to deliver a variety of therapeutic agents, including corticosteroids, statins, and nucleic acids. Furthermore, nanomedicines are also investigated for other respiratory diseases including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and asthma. The promising preclinical results of various nanoformulations from these studies suggest the potential of nanomedicines for future clinical management of respiratory viral infections and diseases.
Photoacoustic Imaging‐Guided Synergistic Photothermal/Radiotherapy Using Plasmonic Bi/Bi2O3−x Nanoparticles
Authors: Huang Xiaoyu , Zha Fengjuan , Zou Jianhua , Li Yingxuan , Wang Fu , Chen Xiaoyuan
Published: March 2022

The integration of photothermal agents and radiosensitizers has been widely implemented in synergistic antitumor treatment because it maintains the advantages of the single model; however, they result in unsatisfactory treatment effects due to their multi‐component, unstable, and non‐degradable nature. Herein, plasmonic Bi/Bi2O3−x is synthesized by in situ fabrication of Bi2O3−x on elemental Bi through a facile hydrothermal method. After encapsulation with DSPE‐PEG2000‐folate, the Bi/Bi2O3−x nanoparticles (NPs) effectively accumulate in tumor sites to serve as a multifunctional therapeutic agent that can damage tumor sections by absorbing near‐infrared light and X‐rays. As demonstrated in penetration depth experiments, the NPs exhibit excellent photoacoustic imaging capabilities for deep tissues. Both blood biochemistry tests and histological assays demonstrate the biosafety of Bi/Bi2O3−x NPs in vivo due to their acceptable toxicity and biological clearance properties. Consequently, the prepared NPs are a desirable candidate for effective second near‐infrared photothermal/radiotherapy.
Data Mining for Terahertz Generation Crystals
Authors: Valdivia‐Berroeta Gabriel A. , Zaccardi Zachary B. , Pettit Sydney K. F. , Ho (Enoch) Sin‐Hang , Palmer Bruce Wayne , Lutz Matthew J. , Rader Claire , Hunter Brittan P. , Green Natalie K. , Barlow Connor , Wayment Coriantumr Z. , Ludlow Daisy J. , Petersen Paige , Smith Stacey J. , Michaelis David J. , Johnson Jeremy A.
Published: March 2022

A data mining approach to discover and develop new organic nonlinear optical crystals that produce intense pulses of terahertz radiation is demonstrated. The Cambridge Structural Database is mined for non‐centrosymmetric materials and these structural data are used in tandem with density functional theory calculations to predict new materials that efficiently generate terahertz radiation. This enables us to (in a relatively short time) discover, synthesize, and grow large, high‐quality crystals of four promising materials and characterize them for intense terahertz generation. In a direct comparison to the current state‐of‐the‐art organic terahertz generation crystals, these new materials excel. The discovery and characterization of these novel terahertz generators validate the approach of combining data mining with density functional theory calculations to predict properties of high‐performance organic materials, potentially for a host of exciting applications.
Advances in the Development of Single‐Atom Catalysts for High‐Energy‐Density Lithium–Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Liang Ziwei , Shen Jiadong , Xu Xijun , Li Fangkun , Liu Jun , Yuan Bin , Yu Yan , Zhu Min
Published: March 2022

Although lithium–sulfur (Li–S) batteries are promising next‐generation energy‐storage systems, their practical applications are limited by the growth of Li dendrites and lithium polysulfide shuttling. These problems can be mitigated through the use of single‐atom catalysts (SACs), which exhibit the advantages of maximal atom utilization efficiency (≈100%) and unique catalytic properties, thus effectively enhancing the performance of electrode materials in energy‐storage devices. This review systematically summarizes the recent progress in SACs intended for use in Li‐metal anodes, S cathodes, and separators, briefly introducing the operating principles of Li–S batteries, the action mechanisms of the corresponding SACs, and the fundamentals of SACs activity, and then comprehensively describes the main strategies for SACs synthesis. Subsequently, the applications of SACs and the principles of SACs operation in reinforced Li–S batteries as well as other metal–S batteries are individually illustrated, and the major challenges of SACs usage in Li–S batteries as well as future development directions are presented.
Transferring Liquid Metal to form a Hybrid Solid Electrolyte via a Wettability‐Tuning Technology for Lithium‐Metal Anodes
Authors: Jin Xin , Cai Ziqiang , Zhang Xinrui , Yu Jianming , He Qiya , Lu Zhenda , Dahbi Mouad , Alami Jones , Lu Jun , Amine Khalil , Zhang Huigang
Published: March 2022

Integrating solid‐state electrolyte (SSE) into Li‐metal anodes has demonstrated great promise to unleash the high energy density of rechargeable Li‐metal batteries. However, fabricating a highly cyclable SSE/Li‐metal anode remains a major challenge because the densification of the SSE is usually incompatible with the reactive Li metal. Here, a liquid‐metal‐derived hybrid solid electrolyte (HSE) is proposed, and a facile transfer technology to construct an artificial HSE on the Li metal is reported. By tuning the wettability of the transfer substrates, electron‐ and ion‐conductive liquid metal is sandwiched between electron‐insulating and ion‐conductive LiF and oxides to form the HSE. The transfer technology renders the HSE continuous, dense, and uniform. The HSE, having high ion transport, electron shut‐off, and mechanical strength, makes the composite anode deliver excellent cyclability for over 4000 h at 0.5 mA cm−2 and 1 mAh cm−2 in a symmetrical cell. When pairing with LiFePO4 and sulfur cathodes, the HSE‐coated Li metal dramatically enhances the performance of full cells. Therefore, this work demonstrates that tuning the interfacial wetting properties provides an alternate approach to build a robust solid electrolyte, which enables highly efficient Li‐metal anodes.
Highly Luminescent and Multifunctional Zero‐Dimensional Cesium Lanthanide Chloride (Cs3LnCl6) Colloidal Nanocrystals
Authors: Lee Minji , Lee Dong Hyun David , Hong Seong Vin , Woo Ho Young , Chae Ji‐Yeon , Lee Da Won , Han Myung Joon , Paik Taejong
Published: March 2022

Herein, the synthesis of novel, highly luminescent, and nearly monodisperse zero‐dimensional (0D) cesium lanthanide chloride (Cs3LnCl6; Ln = Y, Ce, Gd, Er, Tm, Yb) colloidal nanocrystals (NCs) is reported for the first time. The Cs3LnCl6 NCs are synthesized using a heating‐up method and exhibit highly uniform size and shape. The monoclinic‐phase Cs3LnCl6 NCs contain completely isolated [LnCl6]3− octahedral units, resulting in 0D ternary metal halide structures. Therefore, these NCs exhibit deep‐blue photoluminescence under ultraviolet excitation, and this photoluminescence can be tuned by changing the lanthanide cations within the [LnCl6]3− octahedral units. High photoluminescence quantum yields of up to 60% and 90% are observed for the Cs3YbCl6 and Cs3YCl6 NCs, respectively, at room temperature and under ambient conditions. The Cs3LnCl6 NCs exhibit characteristic optical and magnetic properties owing to the f‐orbitals of the lanthanide elements. For example, near‐infrared‐to‐visible upconversion luminescence appears when Cs3LnCl6 NCs are doped with Er3+ and Yb3+ ions. In addition, the Cs3GdCl6 NCs demonstrate paramagnetic properties owing to the unpaired electrons within the f‐orbitals of the trivalent gadolinium ions. This study provides guidance for the rational design and synthesis of novel lanthanide‐based 0D metal halide NCs, which can potentially be used as highly efficient, multifunctional NC emitters.
Phase Transition‐Driven Highly Sensitive, NIR–NIR Band‐Shape Luminescent Thermometer Based on LiYO2:Nd3+
Authors: Marciniak Lukasz , Piotrowski Wojciech Michal , Drozd Marek , Kinzhybalo Vasyl , Bednarkiewicz Artur , Dramicanin Miroslav
Published: March 2022

Almost all existing luminescent thermometers rely on the temperature‐dependent processes such as multi‐phonon relaxation and phonon‐assisted energy transfers, thermal population, or coupling between energy levels of ground and excited states of luminescent species (lanthanides, transition metals, quantum dots, fluorescent molecules, etc.). Although such phenomena are in principle suitable for straightforward calibration, aiming to offer high temperature sensitivity, high temperature resolution and the widest possible temperature sensitivity range, their performance is often dependent on the excitation intensity or sample dispersive properties and often suffers from insufficient brightness, which further becomes dimmer at increased temperatures. Exploiting temperature‐dependent continuous phase transitions that modify the same near‐infrared (NIR) emission band under the same NIR excitation wavelength may provide an alternative reading method for temperature sensing. Here, such a new principle of luminescent nano‐thermometry (LNT) using a Nd3+ doped nanocrystalline LiYO2 matrix is studied, significant sensitivities of up to 6%/K are achieved, and other issues found in conventional LNT are circumvented. Due to the hysteresis found in this class of LNT, they may find applications in studies of temperature gradients and can be integrated with modern nanophotonic devices.
Fabrication of Wideband Low‐Profile Dielectric Patch Antennas from Temperature Stable 0.65 CaTiO3–0.35 LaAlO3Microwave Dielectric Ceramic
Authors: Du Chao , Zhou Di , Li Rui‐Tao , Chen He‐Tuo , Zhou Guo‐Hong , Tang Bin , Darwish Moustafa Adel , Xia Song , Xu Zhuo
Published: March 2022

In this paper, the medium dielectric constant 0.65CaTiO3‐0.35LaAlO3(CTLA) composite microwave ceramic is employed to introduce in dielectric patch antennas (DPA). Typical, high‐performance microwave dielectric properties ofεr ≈ 44.8,Q × f ≈ 43 950 GHz@3.67 GHz andTCF ≈ 0 ppm °C–1can be obtained by solid‐state reaction method in CTLA composite microwave ceramics sintered at 1450 °C for 2 h. Then, the CTLA composite ceramic patch fired with silver coating is mounted on the Rogers RO4003C substrate operating as a magnetic wall boundary. A simplified cavity‐like theoretical model is used to analyze the proposed DPA structure and the accuracy of this antenna model is evaluated by the theoretical results from a commercial CST Microwave Studio 2019. Based on this, the CTLA composite ceramic physical property is modified to enhance the radiation efficiency and reduce profile of the DPA. The higher‐order TM121mode is brought close to the dominant TM101mode by taking advantage of the multimode characteristics of the dielectric patch resonator and introducing a sintered silver slot in the ceramic dielectric patch. For demonstration, the proposed DPA prototype operating in the multiprobe antenna near the field measurement system is implemented and measured.
Genotype–phenotype correlates in Joubert syndrome: A review
Authors: Gana Simone , Serpieri Valentina , Valente Enza Maria
Published: March 2022

Joubert syndrome (JS) is a genetically heterogeneous primary ciliopathy characterized by a pathognomonic cerebellar and brainstem malformation, the “molar tooth sign,” and variable organ involvement. Over 40 causative genes have been identified to date, explaining up to 94% of cases. To date, gene‐phenotype correlates have been delineated only for a handful of genes, directly translating into improved counseling and clinical care. For instance, JS individuals harboring pathogenic variants in TMEM67 have a significantly higher risk of liver fibrosis, while pathogenic variants in NPHP1, RPGRIP1L, and TMEM237 are frequently associated to JS with renal involvement, requiring a closer monitoring of liver parameters, or renal functioning. On the other hand, individuals with causal variants in the CEP290 or AHI1 need a closer surveillance for retinal dystrophy and, in case of CEP290, also for chronic kidney disease. These examples highlight how an accurate description of the range of clinical symptoms associated with defects in each causative gene, including the rare ones, would better address prognosis and help guiding a personalized management. This review proposes to address this issue by assessing the available literature, to confirm known, as well as to propose rare gene‐phenotype correlates in JS.
The evolution of de novo human‐specific microRNA genes on chromosome 21
Authors: Johnson Hunter R. , Blandino Jessica A. , Mercado Beatriz C. , Galván José A. , Higgins William J. , Lents Nathan H.
Published: March 2022

The genetic basis of human uniqueness remains one of the most enduring mysteries in biological anthropology. The goal of this research project was to identify, characterize, and infer the origin and function of novel elements in the human genome that are not functionally shared with other apes. Our approach toward this goal was to utilize a variety of genome alignment tools to discover islands of non‐conserved DNA sequences, followed by theoretical and computational analysis of those regions using synteny sequence analysis. We discovered families of microRNA genes on human chromosome 21 with no detectable orthologs in the other African apes. We then developed a working model of their origin through repeated rounds of segmental duplication occurring within an array of rRNA genes. Target prediction reveals potential roles for these microRNA genes in the embryonic development of the central nervous system. We conclude that the 21p11 region of human chromosome 21 has undergone segmental duplication events that generated de novo microRNA genes from within a field of rRNA genes. These microRNA genes may have played a role in the unique evolutionary trajectory of the human lineage through their modulation of genes involved in embryonic development.
Comparative efficacy and safety of acupuncture and Western medicine for poststroke thalamic pain
Authors: Yang Jiju , Li Xinyi , Li Chong , He Ke , Wu Yang , Lin Haiming , Xie Xianfei , Zhang Fan , Hao Huifeng , Tian Guihua
Published: March 2022

Poststroke thalamic pain (PSTP) is one of the most common sequelae following stroke. Analgesics, antidepressants, anticonvulsants, and surgical treatment are conventional treatment methods of PSTP, but these methods have limited efficacy, cost more, and cause a likelihood of adverse reactions. Clinical studies have shown that acupuncture has a significant analgesic effect on PSTP without obvious side effects. But, there is a lack of high‐quality evidence concerning its effectiveness and safety to support its use. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety of acupuncture versus Western medicine for the treatment of PSTP to provide evidence to support clinical PSTP treatment. Searches were conducted to identify randomized controlled trials investigating the use of acupuncture for PSTP across six databases, including PubMed, the Cochrane Library, EMBASE, the China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wan Fang Database, and the Chinese Scientific Journal Database VIP. RevMan 5.3 software was used for the meta‐analysis. The results showed that compared with Western medicine, acupuncture had a higher total effective rate for the treatment of PSTP, reduced visual analog scale scores, increased beta‐endorphin content, and decreased incidence of adverse reactions. However, the sample sizes of the included studies were insufficient, and the quality of the articles was relatively poor. In future studies, the clinical study design should be standardized and the sample size should be expanded to validate these results.
Global prevalence of autism: A systematic review update
Authors: Zeidan Jinan , Fombonne Eric , Scorah Julie , Ibrahim Alaa , Durkin Maureen S. , Saxena Shekhar , Yusuf Afiqah , Shih Andy , Elsabbagh Mayada
Published: March 2022

Prevalence estimates of autism are essential for informing public policy, raising awareness, and developing research priorities. Using a systematic review, we synthesized estimates of the prevalence of autism worldwide. We examined factors accounting for variability in estimates and critically reviewed evidence relevant for hypotheses about biological or social determinants (viz., biological sex, sociodemographic status, ethnicity/race, and nativity) potentially modifying prevalence estimates of autism. We performed the search in November 2021 within Medline for studies estimating autism prevalence, published since our last systematic review in 2012. Data were extracted by two independent researchers. Since 2012, 99 estimates from 71 studies were published indicating a global autism prevalence that ranges within and across regions, with a median prevalence of 100/10,000 (range: 1.09/10,000 to 436.0/10,000). The median male‐to‐female ratio was 4.2. The median percentage of autism cases with co‐occurring intellectual disability was 33.0%. Estimates varied, likely reflecting complex and dynamic interactions between patterns of community awareness, service capacity, help seeking, and sociodemographic factors. A limitation of this review is that synthesizing methodological features precludes a quality appraisal of studies. Our findings reveal an increase in measured autism prevalence globally, reflecting the combined effects of multiple factors including the increase in community awareness and public health response globally, progress in case identification and definition, and an increase in community capacity. Hypotheses linking factors that increase the likelihood of developing autism with variations in prevalence will require research with large, representative samples and comparable autism diagnostic criteria and case‐finding methods in diverse world regions over time.

Lay Summary

We reviewed studies of the prevalence of autism worldwide, considering the impact of geographic, ethnic, and socioeconomic factors on prevalence estimates. Approximately 1/100 children are diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder around the world. Prevalence estimates increased over time and varied greatly within and across sociodemographic groups. These findings reflect changes in the definition of autism and differences in the methodology and contexts of prevalence studies.
Use of vasoactive medications in pregnancy and the risk of stillbirth among birth defect cases
Authors: Kerr Stephen , Heinke Dominique , Yazdy Mahsa M. , Mitchell Allen A. , Darling Anne Marie , Lin Angela , Nestoridi Eirini , Werler Martha M. ,   the National Birth Defects Prevention Study
Published: March 2022

Background

Many previous studies have identified risk factors for stillbirth, but few examine stillbirth among pregnancies affected with birth defects. Because many hypothesized etiologies of stillbirth work through vascular pathologies of the placenta, we examined maternal use of vasoactive medications in relation to stillbirth among pregnancies affected with birth defects.

Methods

Data were analyzed from the National Birth Defects Prevention Study (1997–2011). We examined use of nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), decongestants, short‐ or long‐acting beta‐agonists (SABA/LABA), and antihypertensive medications in relation to pregnancies affected by birth defects ending in stillbirth compared to live birth. Associations were measured with odds ratios (ORs) for early pregnancy use and hazard ratios (HRs) for time‐varying late pregnancy use.

Results

Among all birth defects (n = 12,394), the risk of stillbirth was associated with use of antihypertensive medications in early (odds ratio [OR]: 1.8; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.0, 3.1) and late pregnancy (HR: 2.0; 95% CI: 1.1, 3.6). Other vasoactive medications were not associated with increased risk of stillbirth. Of 27 specific defect groups, increased risks were observed for only one medication/defect pair: early decongestant use was more common among mothers of stillbirth versus live birth cases with spina bifida (OR: 2.4; 95% CI: 0.9, 6.5).

Conclusion

This exploratory analysis of vasoactive medication use suggests that use of NSAIDs, decongestants, and SABA/LABA is not associated with increased risk of stillbirth among pregnancies affected with birth defects. Our finding of increased risks associated with antihypertensive medication use raises questions of confounding by indication, which we were not able to fully address.
Keep your eye on…
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: March 2022

Sleep, activity and mental health during COVID‐19

The importance of the new ‘gentle parenting’ movement

A tool to measure emotional outbursts in children
New NAS definition released amid concerns that diagnosis can still be misused
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: March 2022

The federal Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) in February released a definition of neonatal abstinence syndrome/neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome (NAS/NOWS).
Children of Incarcerated Parents and COVID‐19
Authors: Paccione‐Dyszlewski Margaret
Published: March 2022

In the May 2020 edition of this publication, I wrote a guest commentary entitled “In support of children of incarcerated parents.” This commentary attempted to shed some light on the estimated 2.7 million minors — or one in 28 children — who are currently suffering the consequences of their parent's incarceration. Many more children have a parent that has recently been released from the correctional system. One in 14 kids will have a parent incarcerated before they are 18 years of age! Think about that — every classroom and every faith‐based community in America likely has a child or several children who fall into this subgroup.
Betriebsstörung Kommunikationsfehler
Authors: Kirchner Robert
Published: March 2022

Kommunikationsfehler sind Alltag in jedem Anlagenbetrieb. Es lohnt sich daher, die so selbstverständliche Verständigung zwischen Menschen im betrieblichen Umfeld etwas intensiver zu beleuchten und herauszufinden, was man besser machen kann.
Digital unterstützt ins Feld
Authors: Schongar Tobias
Published: March 2022

Mobile Endgeräte, die in der Instandhaltung und für andere Aufgaben in der Chemieanlage genutzt werden können, sind, ausgestattet mit der interaktiven App Comos Mobile Worker, sehr hilfreich.
Ausfall‐ und Stillstandszeiten in der Prozessindustrie minimieren
Authors: Deakins Scott
Published: March 2022

Ein cloudbasiertes Enterprise Ressource Planning (ERP)‐System hilft dabei, kritische Prozesspunkte und ‐anlagen zu identifizieren, frühzeitig auf mögliche Ausfälle hinzuweisen und Kapazitäten anzupassen.
So wird die nächste Generation ausgebildet
Authors: Reynolds Stephen
Published: March 2022

Das Training mit Virtual und Augmented Reality‐Tools ermöglicht anlagenspezifisches Lernen und reduziert Risiken und Kosten im sicheren Chemieanlagenbetrieb. Das motiviert Mitarbeiter und kann für Anlagen‐ und Prozessverständnis auf allen Entscheidungsebenen sorgen.
Assessment of kernel characteristics to predict popping performance in grain sorghum
Authors: Kent Mitchell A. , Crozier Daniel S. , Rooney William L.
Published: March 2022

Growth in the niche market of popped grain sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] has increased the demand for grain sorghum lines or hybrids with improved popping quality. While there is a clear morphological difference in kernel morphology between popcorn [Zea mays L. everta] and most other types of corn, most grain sorghum genotypes have kernels with generally similar morphological structure. The absence of a specific kernel morphology for sorghum makes it impossible to eliminate types of grain sorghum that will not pop based solely on that morphology. Consequently, screening of any sorghum genotype requires the actual popping of grain from that genotype. As such, the identification of traits or combinations thereof that effectively screen grain sorghum genotypes for popping efficiency (PE), expansion ratio (ER), flake size (FS), and popped density (PD) is necessary. Herein, grain from 78 diverse genotypes grown in two environments were characterized for physical (i.e., diameter, thousand kernel weight, kernel hardness index, test weight, and visual hardness rating), compositional (i.e., starch, fiber, fat, ash, and protein), and popping characteristics (i.e., PE, ER, FS, and PD). No single physical or compositional trait was sufficiently correlated to prediction of popping performance. Multi‐trait models better predicted popping performance than the single trait correlations. Further, multi‐trait models using compositional predictors increased prediction accuracies by 10.1% for PE, 42.9% for ER, 24.4% for FS, and 40.6% for PD compared with physical predictors. Among subgroups of genotypes, prediction accuracies varied considerably based on the criteria used to subdivide the genotypes. In conclusion, indirect selection for popping performance is possible by leveraging specific multi‐trait models.
Changes to architecture of Silphium integrifolium Michx. during domestication reveal new trade‐offs for yield
Authors: Prasifka Jarrad R. , Peterson Kelsey , Mallinger Rachel E. , Van Tassel David L.
Published: March 2022

Ongoing domestication of whole‐leaf rosinweed, Silphium integrifolium Michx., as a perennial oilseed and forage crop aims to increase yields while limiting decreases in other desirable traits (i.e., trade‐offs). Two changes to plant architecture, increasing pistillate ray florets head−1 ( = feminization) and reduced lateral branching of stems, have been considered for their potential to improve oil yields but with limited understanding of potential trade‐offs. Field tests with genets that vary for feminization failed to show that increasing the number of female florets head−1 had any effect on pollinator visitation and seed set (%) but revealed that feminization reduced embryo mass achene−1. In general, tripling the number of ray florets head−1 reduced the mass of individual embryos by 50% or more, which suggests feminization still provides a net benefit for oil yields. Clipping (bud removal) used to simulate reduced branching in S. integrifolium affected components of yield in ways that were generally predictable; heads (receptacles) became larger and mass achene−1 increased. However, the large number of buds removed to achieve modest increases in head size and achene mass make reduced branching appear undesirable. Ultimately, S. integrifolium genets with genetically reduced branching are needed to make the best evaluation of this potential change. Both sets of experiments reveal plasticity in S. integrifolium yield components and suggest that efforts to improve the quality of phenotypic data are important to efficient selection.
Durability of benefit after transcatheter tricuspid valve intervention: insights from actigraphy
Authors: Stocker Thomas J. , Cohen David J. , Arnold Suzanne V. , Sommer Saskia , Braun Daniel , Stolz Lukas , Hertell Helene , Weckbach Ludwig T. , Wild Mirjam G. , Doldi Philipp , Orban Martin , Orban Mathias , Deseive Simon , Higuchi Satoshi , Massberg Steffen , Nabauer Michael , Hausleiter Jörg
Published: March 2022

Aims

Tricuspid regurgitation (TR) is associated with high mortality, morbidity and reduced physical capacity. This study was designed to examine the long‐term impact of transcatheter tricuspid valve intervention (TTVI) on physical activity by using the method of actigraphy.

Methods and results

Overall, we prospectively included 128 heart failure patients with severe TR (median age 79 years, 48% female) who were scheduled for TTVI. Patients were equipped with activity tracking devices for 1 week before TTVI, and again at 1–6 months and 1 year after TTVI. We compared continuous physical activity (CPA), defined as the mean number of steps/day with New York Heart Association class, quality of life assessments, and 6‐min walk distance (all p <0.01). TTVI reduced TR to grade ≤2+ in 94% of patients. Median (interquartile range [IQR]) CPA at baseline was 3108 (1350–4959) steps/day, which increased by 31.4% to 3958 (1823–5657) steps/day at 1–6 months and 4080 (2293–6514) steps/day at 1 year after TTVI (p <0.001 for both comparisons). The impact of TTVI was significantly higher in advanced heart failure patients with low baseline activity (baseline CPA <1350 steps/day; 1‐year CPA increase: +121.3%; p <0.001), when compared to moderate activity patients (baseline CPA 1350–4959 steps/day; 1‐year CPA increase: +27.5%; p <0.01) or high activity patients (baseline CPA >4959 steps/day; 1‐year CPA change: +2.6%; p = 0.39).

Conclusion

One‐week actigraphy demonstrates durable improvement of physical activity after TTVI. Fragile chronic heart failure patients with very low baseline activity, as determined by actigraphy in this study, significantly benefit from transcatheter intervention and should not be excluded from TTVI.
Vericiguat in patients with coronary artery disease and heart failure with reduced ejection fraction
Authors: Saldarriaga Clara , Atar Dan , Stebbins Amanda , Lewis Basil S. , Abidin Imran Zainal , Blaustein Robert O. , Butler Javed , Ezekowitz Justin A. , Hernandez Adrian F. , Lam Carolyn S.P. , O'Connor Christopher M. , Pieske Burkert , Ponikowski Piotr , Roessig Lothar , Voors Adriaan A. , Anstrom Kevin J. , Armstrong Paul W. ,   VICTORIA Study Group
Published: March 2022

Aims

Coronary artery disease (CAD) portends worse outcomes in heart failure (HF). We aimed to characterize patients with CAD and worsening HF with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) and evaluate post hoc whether vericiguat treatment effect varied according to CAD.

Methods and results

Cox proportional hazards were generated for the primary endpoint of cardiovascular death or HF hospitalization (CVD/HFH). CAD was defined as previous myocardial infarction, percutaneous coronary intervention, or coronary artery bypass grafting. Of 5048 patients in VICTORIA with available data on CAD status, 2704 had CAD and were older, were more frequently male, diabetic, and had a lower glomerular filtration rate than those without CAD (all p <0.0001). Use of implantable cardioverter defibrillators and cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) was higher in patients with versus without CAD (33.5% vs. 21.1%; p <0.0001 and 16.3% vs. 12.8%; p = 0.0006). The primary endpoint of CVD/HFH was higher in those with versus without CAD (40.6 vs. 30.1/100 patient‐years; adjusted hazard ratio [HR] 1.23; p <0.001) as was all‐cause mortality (17.9% vs. 12.7%; adjusted HR 1.32; p <0.001). The primary outcome of CVD/HFH associated with vericiguat in patients with or without CAD was 38.8 versus 27.6 per 100 patient‐years and for placebo was 42.6 versus 32.7 per 100 patient‐years (interaction p = 0.78).

Conclusion

In this post hoc study, CAD was associated with more CVD and HFH in patients with HFrEF and worsening HF. Vericiguat was beneficial and safe regardless of concomitant CAD.
Finerenone in patients with chronic kidney disease and type 2 diabetes with and without heart failure: a prespecified subgroup analysis of the FIDELIO‐DKD trial
Authors: Filippatos Gerasimos , Pitt Bertram , Agarwal Rajiv , Farmakis Dimitrios , Ruilope Luis M. , Rossing Peter , Bauersachs Johann , Mentz Robert J. , Kolkhof Peter , Scott Charlie , Joseph Amer , Bakris George L. , Anker Stefan D. ,   FIDELIO‐DKD Investigators
Published: March 2022

Aims

This prespecified analysis of the FIDELIO‐DKD trial compared the effects of finerenone, a selective non‐steroidal mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist, on cardiorenal outcomes in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and type 2 diabetes (T2D) by history of heart failure (HF).

Methods and results

Patients with T2D and CKD (urine albumin‐to‐creatinine ratio ≥30–5000 mg/g and estimated glomerular filtration rate [eGFR] ≥25–<75 ml/min/1.73 m2), without symptomatic HF with reduced ejection fraction (New York Heart Association II–IV) and treated with optimized renin–angiotensin system blockade were randomized to finerenone or placebo. The composite cardiovascular (CV) outcome (CV death, non‐fatal myocardial infarction, non‐fatal stroke, or hospitalization for HF) and composite kidney outcome (kidney failure, sustained ≥40% decrease in eGFR from baseline, or renal death) were analysed by investigator‐reported medical history of HF. Of 5674 patients, 436 (7.7%) had a history of HF. Over a median follow‐up of 2.6 years, the effect of finerenone compared with placebo on the composite CV outcome was consistent in patients with and without a history of HF (hazard ratio [HR] 0.73, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.50–1.06 and HR 0.90, 95% CI 0.77–1.04, respectively; interaction p = 0.33). The effect of finerenone on the composite kidney outcome did not differ by history of HF (HR 0.79, 95% CI 0.52–1.20 and HR 0.83, 95% CI 0.73–0.94, respectively; interaction p = 0.83).

Conclusion

In FIDELIO‐DKD, finerenone improved cardiorenal outcome in patients with CKD and T2D irrespective of baseline HF history.
Verification of multi‐degree‐of‐freedom building modelling for seismic response prediction based on microtremor measurement
Authors: Ikeda Yoshiki , Kurata Masahiro , Xie Jinzhe
Published: March 2022

The applicability of the proposed dynamic response model for buildings is investigated using shaking‐table tests with a four‐storey steel specimen. This approach derives the equation of motion for a multi‐degree‐of‐freedom linear building based on microtremor measurements. Under a linear assumption, the equation can estimate the seismic response accelerations, velocities, and displacements at microtremor sensor locations without the need for information about the mass, damping, stiffness matrices or need for structural design documents to estimate peak responses that are linked with seismic damages of structural and non‐structural components. The modelling is unconstrained by structural shape, composition of frames, connections of structural members, or the assumption of a rigid floor. In comparison to the previous methods assuming simple/regular building shape with standard/typical rigid floor, the proposed model is applicable to large‐scale low‐rise buildings with irregular shapes, flat expanses, and open spaces such as large atria and skylights as well. The applicability study considers two practical scenarios: natural frequencies and damping ratios based on microtremors that can be updated by an earthquake and a standard assumption for structural design. The prediction accuracy is best when the participation vector for seismic input is obtained from sensors located on the upper floors; the structure mostly exhibits elastic response; a modal system identification is applied to the seismic measurement; and local damage does not affect the global seismic response of the structure. The reason is that this method assumes that identified mode shapes do not change due to the occurrence of an earthquake.
Morphodynamics of a meandering channel over decadal timescales in response to hydrological variations
Authors: Hooke Janet M.
Published: March 2022

This article addresses a major theme in fluvial geomorphology on which Professor Ken Gregory contributed much pioneering research, that of quantitative relations of morphological change to discharge variations. It examines the morphodynamics and processes of adjustment of river channels to flow characteristics on event to decadal timescales, using field and remote sensing data collected over a 40‐year period for a very active meandering reach of the River Bollin, northwest England. The free meandering and rapid rates of changes provide insight into response timescales and processes. Morphological variations and rates of change are analysed in relation to peak flow parameters. The results show that the sinuosity has continuously increased since a resetting of the planform by multiple cutoffs in 2001, this autogenic trend underlying the effects of flow events. Width of the channel has varied by 50% between map dates, corresponding to discharge characteristics of each 6‐year period and integrating the impacts of individual events. A trend of decrease in intensity of erosion and deposition and of narrowing for the period 2001–2019 is apparent and may be an indication of the recovery and adjustment time to the major morphological changes in 2001. Other possible influences include decline in sediment supply but no obvious external cause is identified. A feedback effect of lower process rates producing less sediment from banks which decreases rates of channel movement may be occurring. A major contributor to the process rate decline and narrowing could be an increase in riparian vegetation cover. Complex sequences of change between peak flow events emerge, unrelated to discharge magnitude or numbers of peak events, and a process of basal bank sedimentation followed by upper bank deposition is evident. Channel capacity varies by up to 30% year to year, which has major implications for variability of flood risk and floodplain inundation.
The effects of cyanobacterial biofilms on water transport and retention of natural building stones
Authors: Schröer Laurenz , De Kock Tim , Godts Sebastiaan , Boon Nico , Cnudde Veerle
Published: March 2022

Water affects the susceptibility of stone to alteration by facilitating physical, chemical and biological weathering. Stone properties determine water transport and retention, but it is also expected that biofilms and extracellular polymeric substances could alter the water–stone relationship. A lot of research on this subject has been carried out on soils, but the effect on stones is understudied. For this reason, three sedimentary building stones, Ernzen, Euville and Savonnières, each with a different pore size distribution, were biofouled with cyanobacteria. Their relationship with the stone material was investigated by optical and electron microscopy, and the effect of cyanobacterial biofilms on water transport and retention was studied. The results showed that the cyanobacteria primarily colonize the building stones on the outer surface and have a limited effect on the water transport properties. They slightly reduced the capillary coefficient and drying rate of the stones, but enhanced the water content in the stone and increased water vapour sorption. They induced (near) hydrophobic conditions, but had no measurable effect on the gas permeability and water vapour diffusion. Moreover, swelling and shrinkage of the biofilms were observed, which could potentially induce physical weathering. It is expected that these changes could influence other forms of weathering, such as freeze–thaw weathering and salt weathering.
Progress in the efficacy and mechanism of spinal cord stimulation in neuropathological pain
Authors: Li Shun‐Lian , Li Jing , Xu Hui‐Chan , Liu Yu‐Cong , Yang Ting‐Ting , Yuan Hao
Published: March 2022

Neuropathic pain (NP) is a long‐term recurrent disease caused by somatosensory nervous system injury, with spontaneous pain, hyperalgesia, ectopic pain, and paresthesia as the main clinical manifestations. It adversely affects patients' quality of life. NP treatments often include medication, physical therapy, and invasive therapy; the first two therapies are generally ineffective for some NP patients. These patients sometimes rely on invasive therapy to alleviate pain. Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) is a very effective therapeutic method. SCS is a neuroregulatory method that involves placing the electrodes on the corresponding painful spinal cords. Pain is greatly alleviated after SCS. SCS has been proven to be an effective therapeutic method for the treatment of neurological pain. Furthermore, SCS provides a feasible approach for patients with unsuccessful drug treatment. This paper reviews the relevant literature of spinal cord electrical stimulation, focusing on the mechanism of action, clinical application, clinical efficacy and technical progress of spinal cord electrical stimulation. SCS is widely used in the treatment of NP diseases such as postherpetic neuralgia, back surgery failure syndrome, and phantom limb pain. With advancements in science and technology, tremendous progress has also been made in the spinal cord electrical stimulation method and good momentum has been maintained.
Probing the range of applicability of structure‐ and energy‐adjustedQM/MMlink bondsII: Optimized link bond parameters for density functional tight binding approaches
Authors: Gallmetzer Hans Georg , Hofer Thomas S.
Published: March 2022

Optimized link bond parameters for the CαCβbond of 22 different capped amino acid model systems have been determined at SCC DFTB/mio (self‐consistent charge density functional tight‐binding), SCC DFTB/3ob and GFNn‐xTB (n = 0, 1, and 2) level in conjunction with the AMBER 99SB, 14SB, and 19B force fields. The resulting parameter sets have been compared to newly calculated reference data obtained via resolution‐of‐identity 2nd order Møller–Plesset perturbation theory. The data collected in this work suggests that the optimized values in this study provide a more suitable setup of the QM/MM link bonds compared to the use of a single global setting applied to every amino acid fragmented by the QM/MM interface. The results also imply that a transfer of the ideal link bond settings between different levels of theory is not advised. In contrast, virtually identical parameters were obtained in calculations employing different variants of the AMBER force field. Considering the increasing success of tight binding based approaches being inter alia a results of their exceptional accuracy/effort ratio the provided collection of link atoms parameters provides a valuable resource for QM/MM studies of biomacromolecular systems as demonstrated in an exemplary QM/MM MD simulation of theβ‐amyloid/Zn2+complex.
Controlled preparation of grafted starch modified with Ni nanoparticles for biodegradable polymer nanocomposites and its application in food packaging
Authors: Iqbal Shahid , Nadeem Sohail , Javed Mohsin , Alsaab Hashem O. , Awwad Nasser S. , Ibrahium Hala A. , Mohyuddin Ayesha
Published: March 2022

Grafting of starch with methyl methacrylate was carried out using a free radical mechanism. Free radicals were generated by the thermal disintegration of potassium persulphate at the temperature of 60°C. A variety of experimental methods were investigated to check the effect of different parameters such as (temperature, amount of starch, quantity of monomer) for efficient grafting. The optimum temperature found for good grafting was 60°C. The initial amount of starch was taken as 0.75 g. Keeping the amount of starch constant, the quantity of monomer was reduced gradually from 10 to 2 ml in portions of 5 and 3 ml. The controlled biodegradability of the grafted product was obtained by using a 3 ml monomer in 0.75 g starch. This grafted polymer showed 31.45% biodegradability in 60 days. The nanocomposite of starch grafted methyl methacrylate was prepared by incorporating 0.02 g Ni nanoparticles in the reaction flask 15 min before the completion of reaction time. The starch grafted polymer and nanocomposite of this were fully characterized by SEM, FTIR, TGA, and DSC techniques. The soil burial method was applied to estimate the biodegradability of samples. The polymer containing Ni nanoparticles was less biodegradable than without nanoparticles. Such polymers can be efficiently used as packaging material for food items.

Research Highlights

Through a free radical method, methyl methacrylate was grafted onto the backbone of starch in this study.

During the process, nickel nanoparticles were added to achieve the nickel nanocomposite of the starch grafted polymer.

The breakdown of starch grafted polymer after 60 days in a soil burial experiment was 31.45%, whereas the degradation of nanocomposites was 20.07%.

Our synthesized nanocomposite polymers can be effectively employed as packaging material for food items.
Pentavalent semisymmetric graphs of square‐free order
Authors: Li Guang , Lu Zai Ping
Published: March 2022

A regular graph is semisymmetric if its automorphism group acts transitively on the edge set but not on the vertex set. In this article, we give a complete list of connected semisymmetric graphs of square‐free order and valency 5. The list consists of a single graph, the incidence graph of a generalized hexagon of order , and an infinite family arising from some groups with cyclic Fitting subgroup.
Assessment of masticatory function in the differential diagnosis of Stage IV periodontitis: A pilot diagnostic accuracy study
Authors: Deng Ke , Uy Samantha N.M.R. , Fok Chris , Fok Melissa R. , Pelekos George , Tonetti Maurizio S.
Published: March 2022

Background

After diagnosis of periodontitis is made, detection of Stage IV cases is critical for appropriate management that may call for interdisciplinary care. This study aims to identify and assess the accuracy of a simple screening approach for practice and surveillance of Stage IV periodontitis.

Methods

Masticatory function assessments by both validated self‐reported masticatory dysfunction questionnaire and dual‐color chewing gum mixing ability test (index test) were conducted in 214 consecutive patients, followed by a full‐mouth periodontal examination. Periodontal diagnosis was based on the 2017 World Workshop classification of periodontal diseases (reference standard). Multivariate logistic regression and area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) analyses were performed.

Results

Overall, the individual patient‐reported masticatory dysfunction questions showed low to moderate accuracy for predicting Stage IV periodontitis. The objective measures of masticatory function by calculating the variance of hue from the chewing gum test performed better with an AUROC of 0.840. A diagnostic approach based on age, self‐report of altered food type intake, and chewing gum test results exhibited excellent performance for predicting Stage IV periodontitis (sensitivity: 89.7%; specificity:76.3%; AUROC:0.912).

Conclusions

Once the presence of periodontitis has been established, a simple diagnostic approach that does not require specialized workforce, complex, or lengthy assessment allows identification of patients with Stage IV periodontitis. This is important as these patients require specific case work up and interdisciplinary care pathways. Additional studies are required to validate the findings in multiple populations.
Time‐periodic flows of electrons and holes in semiconductor devices
Authors: Kan Toru , Suzuki Masahiro
Published: March 2022

The main purpose of this paper is mathematical analysis on time‐periodic flows of electrons and holes in semiconductors. The flows appear in a situation that alternating‐current voltages are applied to devices. In this paper, we study the drift‐diffusion model for semiconductors in a three‐dimensional bounded domain and investigate the existence and stability of time‐periodic solutions. We first derive uniform‐in‐time estimates of time‐global solutions and then prove by the relative entropy method that the difference of any two solutions decays exponentially fast as time tends to infinity. These facts enable us to show the unique existence and global stability of time‐periodic solutions.