bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pre‐gelatinization and cellulase addition improve fermentation performance and antioxidant activity of black rice wine
Authors: Yang Liu , Chen Xin , Zhou Yue , Mei Lu , Wu Yuting , Sun Hanju , Yao Shengfei , Xu Shangying , Li Jinglei
Published: June 2022

BACKGROUND

Black rice contains a variety of bioactive substances that contribute to the high nutritional value of black rice wine (BRW). However, the dense bran layer of black rice retards the fermentation rate and reduces the dissolution of active components. Hence, this study aims to investigate the effects of pre‐gelatinization (PG) before cooking and cellulase (CE) addition during fermentation on the fermentation performance of BRW and its antioxidant activity.

RESULTS

PG combined with CE treatments (PGCE) increases the alcohol content, free amino acid content, volatile flavor content and total antioxidant activity of BRW by 90.81%, 15.36%, 38.05% and 19.56%, respectively, compared with the control group. Scanning electron microscopy, low‐field nuclear magnetic resonance and texture properties analysis indicate that PG treatment increases gelatinization degree of starch during cooking, decreases bound water content in cooked black rice and promotes unbound water release. CE destroys the aleurone layer structure, facilitates the release of unbound water and the exposure of rice starch, thus increasing the reaction area and extravasation content significantly, which is beneficial to microbial growth and fermentation. Incomplete aleurone layer also promotes the dissolution of anthocyanins, phenols and other active substances, increasing the antioxidant activities of BRW.

CONCLUSION

PG and CE treatments reduce the fermentation time and improve the quality of BRW by destroying the black rice structure. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Multicenter study of racial and ethnic inequities in liver transplantation evaluation: Understanding mechanisms and identifying solutions
Authors: Strauss Alexandra T. , Sidoti Carolyn N. , Purnell Tanjala S. , Sung Hannah C. , Jackson John W. , Levin Scott , Jain Vedant S. , Malinsky Daniel , Segev Dorry L. , Hamilton James P. , Garonzik‐Wang Jacqueline , Gray Stephen H. , Levan Macey L. , Scalea Joseph R. , Cameron Andrew M. , Gurakar Ahmet , Gurses Ayse P.
Published: June 2022

Racial and ethnic disparities persist in access to the liver transplantation (LT) waiting list; however, there is limited knowledge about underlying system‐level factors that may be responsible for these disparities. Given the complex nature of LT candidate evaluation, a human factors and systems engineering approach may provide insights. We recruited participants from the LT teams (coordinators, advanced practice providers, physicians, social workers, dieticians, pharmacists, leadership) at two major LT centers. From December 2020 to July 2021, we performed ethnographic observations (participant–patient appointments, committee meetings) and semistructured interviews (N = 54 interviews, 49 observation hours). Based on findings from this multicenter, multimethod qualitative study combined with the Systems Engineering Initiative for Patient Safety 2.0 (a human factors and systems engineering model for health care), we created a conceptual framework describing how transplant work system characteristics and other external factors may improve equity in the LT evaluation process. Participant perceptions about listing disparities described external factors (e.g., structural racism, ambiguous national guidelines, national quality metrics) that permeate the LT evaluation process. Mechanisms identified included minimal transplant team diversity, implicit bias, and interpersonal racism. A lack of resources was a common theme, such as social workers, transportation assistance, non–English‐language materials, and time (e.g., more time for education for patients with health literacy concerns). Because of the minimal data collection or center feedback about disparities, participants felt uncomfortable with and unadaptable to unwanted outcomes, which perpetuate disparities. We proposed transplant center–level solutions (i.e., including but not limited to training of staff on health equity) to modifiable barriers in the clinical work system that could help patient navigation, reduce disparities, and improve access to care. Our findings call for an urgent need for transplant centers, national societies, and policy makers to focus efforts on improving equity (tailored, patient‐centered resources) using the science of human factors and systems engineering.
κ‐Madness and definability
Authors: Horowitz Haim , Shelah Saharon
Published: June 2022

Assuming the existence of a supercompact cardinal, we construct a model where, for some uncountable regular cardinal κ, there are no κ‐mad families.
Preparing Well‐Defined Polyacrylamide‐b‐polycarbonate by Integrating Photoiniferter Polymerization and TBD‐Catalyzed ROP
Authors: Sun Wei , Shen Xiang , Liu Jingrui , Wu Zhaoqiang , Chen Hong
Published: June 2022

The dual‐initiator technique allows the polymerization of different monomers from orthogonal polymerization mechanisms to obtain block copolymers (BCPs). In this study, it is attempted to combine photoiniferter living free radical polymerization and organocatalytic ring‐opening polymerization (ROP) to design a hydroxyl‐functionalized carbamodithioate, i.e., 4‐(hydroxymethyl)benzyl diethylcarbamodithioate (HBDC), which can integrate photoiniferter polymerization of acrylamide monomers and ROP of cyclic carbonates. As a proof of concept, the monomer applicability is further extended to acrylates and lactones. The results confirm that the two polymerization systems are experimentally compatible in a stepwise sequence as well as in a simultaneous one‐pot process to synthesize BCPs. It is reasonable to assume that HBDC can allow for simple and efficient one‐pot access to well‐defined BCPs from a larger range of monomers, which is more advantageous from the operational, economical, and environmental points of view.
Lie group of invariance technique for analyzing propagation of strong shock wave in a rotating non‐ideal gas with azimuthal magnetic field
Authors: Yadav Shalini , Singh Deepika , Arora Rajan
Published: June 2022

In this manuscript, the propagation of strong shock wave in a non‐ideal gas in the presence of azimuthal magnetic field with rotational effect is examined by using the Lie group of invariance technique with an assumption of uniform density in the undisturbed medium, whereas the azimuthal component of the fluid velocity and magnetic field are supposed to vary. The main advantage of this method is to reduce the number of independent variables by one. We obtained a special class of self‐similar solutions to the problem, and the flow profiles are depicted graphically behind the shock followed by a brief discussion on the behavior of solutions through graphs. The effects of variation in non‐ideal parameter, adiabatic index of the gas, Alfven–Mach number and ambient azimuthal velocity exponent on the flow variables are presented. All numerical calculations have been done using the “Mathematica”software.
Special Section Overview: Effects of Ecosystem Change on North American Percid Populations
Authors: Boehm Hadley I. A. , Isermann Daniel A. , Ermer Mark J. , Eslinger Lawrence D. , Hansen Gretchen J. A. , Logsdon Dale E.
Published: June 2022

Walleye Sander vitreus, Sauger S. canadensis, and Yellow Perch Perca flavescens (referred to as percids herein) are collectively among the most culturally and ecologically important fish species in North America. As ecosystems change in response to environmental drivers, such as climate change, nutrient loading, and invasive species, there is a need to understand how percid populations respond to these changes. To address this need, a symposium was held during the 81st Annual Midwest Fish and Wildlife Conference to bring fishery scientists and managers together to describe and discuss percid population responses to ecosystem change. Prevailing symposium themes included the challenge of identifying mechanisms responsible for population-level changes, developing strategies to adaptively manage for resilient fisheries, and consideration of scale, context, and methods when interpreting variable results. Given the uncertainty of how ecosystem changes affect percid populations, participants emphasized the importance of communicating uncertainties to stakeholders, implementing data-driven management strategies, setting realistic goals, and revising management actions in an adaptive framework. There was universal agreement on both the challenge and necessity of facilitating constructive engagement among stakeholders in cooperative decision making. Symposium participants identified knowledge gaps and discussed future efforts to build on our current understanding of percid populations, including continuation of long-term monitoring, improved standardization of evaluation metrics, implementing adaptive management experiments to identify causal relationships, development of more robust analytical methods, use of historical data sources, and refining techniques to realistically convey management options to stakeholders.
The extended peridynamic model for elastoplastic and/or fracture problems
Authors: Li Wei‐Jian , You Tao , Ni Tao , Zhu Qi‐Zhi , Hien Poh Leong
Published: June 2022

The strain‐based implementation method for the extended peridynamic model (XPDM) resolves the limitation of standard models where only a fixed Poisson's ratio can be achieved. In this contribution, the XPDM formulation is extended to include bond breakage and/or plasticity mechanisms. The elastoplastic and bond breakage algorithms are elaborated. To capture the fracture process, a shear mechanism is now incorporated to the bond breakage response, in addition to the standard stretching failure mode. It is shown that the shear mechanism is required to accurately reproduce mixed mode fracture behavior observed experimentally. To demonstrate the predictive ability of the strain‐based XPDM, a wide range of quasi‐static and dynamic loading conditions, for both brittle and elasto‐plastic materials, is considered against experimental results or practical engineering scenarios.
External influence on parliamentarians in Kenya
Authors: Irwin David , Kiereini Njeri
Published: June 2022

Many scholars argue that the media can influence parliamentarians though the extent of that influence is hotly debated. There is some evidence that the relationship is two way, with politicians taking note of salient media stories but using the media to communicate with their constituents. It is also apparent that, whilst the media may have a role in drawing attention to specific issues, politicians in Kenya do not entirely trust it and thus use a wide range of other sources including government agencies as well as third party sources such as interest groups. This article addresses two gaps in our knowledge―the extent to which parliamentarians in Kenya turn to unofficial sources for information and public opinion, especially interest groups, and the extent to which the media in particular influences parliamentarians in Kenya. The results suggest that parliamentarians in Kenya rely to some extent on both the media and interest groups and that the media is good at raising awareness and stimulating action but that it has only a modest effect on political actions.
Investigation on dynamic strength of 3D‐printed continuous ramie fiber reinforced biocomposites at various strain rates using machine learning methods
Authors: Cai Ruijun , Lin Hao , Cheng Ping , Zhang Zejun , Wang Kui , Peng Yong , Wu Yuankai , Ahzi Said
Published: June 2022

3D‐printed continuous natural fiber reinforced biocomposites have promising prospects due to their environmental friendliness and suitable mechanical properties. Understanding the dynamic mechanical properties of 3D‐printed biocomposites is essential to expand their application. In this study, the continuous ramie fiber reinforced biocomposites (CRFRC) with different layer thicknesses and hatch spacings were fabricated via 3D printing technique with microstructure characterized. In addition, the dynamic strengths of 3D‐printed CRFRC at four strain rates were investigated. The experimental results exhibited that the printing parameters presented nonlinear and interactive influences on the dynamic strength of CRFRC. Given this circumstance, machine learning methods were employed to link the dynamic strength of 3D‐printed CRFRC with different printing parameters. The experimental data were used to train, calibrate, and validate the machine learning models. The trained models were then utilized to predict the dynamic strength of CRFRC printed using different conditions. Behaviors under multiple strain rates were investigated over the whole parameter space. A good agreement was found between experimental results and predictions. Based on the prediction results, the relationships between parameters, microstructural characteristics and dynamic strength of printed CRFRC were quantitatively analyzed.
Fetal and neonatal brain injury in twins complicated by twin anemia polycythemia sequence
Authors: Rosen Hadar , Silber Ronit , Schwartz Anat , Avnet Hagai , Lipitz Shlomo , Shrot Shai , Hoffmann Chen , Weisz Boaz , Yinon Yoav
Published: June 2022

Objectives

To determine the rate of fetal and neonatal brain lesions and define risk factors for such lesions in pregnancies complicated by Twin Anemia Polycythemia Sequence (TAPS).

Methods

A retrospective cohort study of monochorionic twin pregnancies which were diagnosed with TAPS in a single tertiary medical center between 2013 and 2021. Pregnancies were followed with fetal brain neurosonogram every 2 weeks and fetal brain MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) was performed when indicated at 28–32 weeks of gestation; post‐natal brain imaging included neonatal brain ultrasound. Pregnancies with pre‐ and post‐natal brain lesions were compared to those without such findings.

Results

Overall, 23 monochorionic diamniotic pregnancies were diagnosed with TAPS over the study period resulting in perinatal survival of 91.3% (42/46). In 6/23 (26%) pregnancies and 7/46 (15.2%) fetuses pre‐ or post‐natal brain lesions were detected, of whom five were the polycythemic twins and two were the anemic twins. Brain findings included intra‐cerebral hemorrhage and ischemic lesions and were diagnosed prenatally in 6/7 (85.7%) cases. No risk factors for severe brain lesions were identified.

Conclusions

TAPS may place the fetuses and neonates at increased risk for cerebral injuries. Incorporation of fetal brain imaging protocols may enhance precise prenatal diagnosis and allow for accurate parental counseling and post‐natal care.
Validity of claims data for identifying cancer incidence in the Japan public health center‐based prospective study for the next generation
Authors: Ihira Hikaru , Goto Atsushi , Yamagishi Kazumasa , Iso Hiroyasu , Iwasaki Motoki , Sawada Norie , Tsugane Shoichiro ,   JPHC‐NEXT Study Group
Published: June 2022

Purpose

This study determined the validity of claims‐based definitions for identifying the incidence of total and site‐specific cancers in a population‐based cohort study.

Methods

Claims data were obtained for 21 946 participants aged 40–74 years enrolled in the Japan Public Health Center‐based Prospective Study for the Next Generation. We defined total and site‐specific cancer incidence using combinations of codes from claims data, including diagnosis and procedure codes for cancer therapy. Data from the cancer registry were used as the gold standard to evaluate validity.

Results

Among 21 946 participants, 454 total, 89 stomach, 67 colorectal, 51 lung, 39 breast and 99 prostate invasive cancer cases were newly diagnosed in the cancer registry. For invasive cancer, the sensitivity and specificity of the definition that combined codes for diagnosis and procedures for cancer therapy were 87.0% and 99.4% for total, 88.8% and 99.9% for stomach, 80.6% and 99.9% for colorectal, 86.3% and 99.9% for lung, 100% and 99.9% for breast and 91.9% and 99.9% for prostate cancer, respectively. Furthermore, for invasive and/or in situ cancer, the sensitivity and specificity of the definition were 84.5% and 99.5% for total, 66.7% and 99.9% for colorectal and 100% and 99.9% for breast cancer.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that claims‐based definitions using diagnosis and procedure codes generally have high validity for total, stomach, lung, breast and prostate cancer incidence, but may underestimate colorectal cancer incidence.
Effects of yoga on depressive symptoms, anxiety, sleep quality, and mood in patients with rheumatic diseases: Systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: de Orleans Casagrande Pedro , Coimbra Danilo Reis , de Souza Loiane Cristina , Andrade Alexandro
Published: June 2022

Objective

To investigate the effects of yoga on depressive symptoms, anxiety, sleep quality, and mood of patients with rheumatic diseases through a systematic literature review with meta‐analysis.

Literature Survey

This review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) Statement and the Cochrane recommendations and risk of bias tool. The study was registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO). Studies were selected using the PICOS (participants, intervention, comparison, outcome, and study) strategy. Searches were carried out until March 2022 and performed in Web of Science, PubMed, SportDiscus, Scopus, Cochrane, and EBSCO databases.

Methodology

Data were extracted to identify the differences between yoga and control and exercise groups and effect sizes.

Synthesis

In total, 27 studies were included for qualitative analysis and 18 for meta‐analysis. The studies found investigated yoga in patients with osteoarthritis, fibromyalgia, rheumatoid arthritis, and chronic fatigue syndrome. Regarding the risk of bias, the majority of studies showed a high risk or uncertain risk of bias in several criteria. Regarding the meta‐analysis, yoga was favored to decrease depressive symptoms (standard mean difference [SMD]:−0.88; 95% confidence interval [CI]:−1.42; −0.34), anxiety (SMD: −0.51; 95% CI = −0.81 to −0.20), and improve sleep quality SMD = −0.96; 95% CI = −1.36 to −0.56). No differences were found between yoga and other exercise modalities in depression (p < .01).

Conclusions

Yoga is effective in improving depression, anxiety, and sleep quality of patients with rheumatic diseases. However, research in this field still needs further studies, because of methodological issues in the studies and a reduced number of studies conducted on each rheumatic disease and on the effects of yoga on each variable.
Moderators of the association between stigma and psychological and cancer‐related symptoms in women with non‐small cell lung cancer
Authors: Snyder Stella , Kroll Juliet L. , Chen Aileen B. , Antonoff Mara B. , Yang Claire Chunyi , Milbury Kathrin
Published: June 2022

Objective

Lung cancer patients, particularly women, are vulnerable to experience disease‐related stigma, which is linked to greater psychological distress and worse treatment outcomes. To inform future stigma‐resilience interventions, we examined if mindfulness, self‐compassion, and social support might buffer the associations between perceived lung cancer stigma and psychological and cancer‐related symptoms.

Methods

In this cross‐sectional study, women with recently diagnosed non‐small cell lung cancer undergoing cancer treatment completed measures of Cataldo Lung Cancer Stigma Scale, depressive (Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale), stress (Impact of Events Scale) and cancer‐related (MD Anderson Symptom Inventory‐Lung Cancer) symptoms, mindfulness (Mindful Attention Awareness Scale), self‐compassion (Self‐Compassion Scale), and social support (Social Provisions Scale).

Results

The sample included 56 women (mean age = 65 years; 71% non‐Hispanic White; 50% college educated; 74% advanced stage) who had consented to participate in an online support group study. Most (70%) had a smoking history and reported moderate levels of stigma (M = 36.28, SD = 10.51). Based on general linear modeling, mindfulness moderated the associations between stigma and depressive symptoms (F = 5.78, p = 0.02), cancer‐related stress (F = 12.21, p = 0.002), and cancer‐related symptom severity (F = 4.61, p = 0.04), such that, only for women scoring low in mindfulness, the associations between stigma and symptoms were significant. For those scoring high in mindfulness, the associations between stigma and symptoms were not significant supporting a buffering effect. Self‐compassion and social support did not significantly moderate the stigma and symptom associations.

Conclusions

Higher levels of mindfulness may protect women from psychological and cancer‐related symptoms typically associated with the stigmatizing experience of a lung cancer diagnosis. Yet, longitudinal studies and randomized controlled designs are needed to identify mindfulness as a causal protective factor.
Considerations for developing supportive care interventions for survivors of head and neck cancer: A qualitative study
Authors: Oswald Laura B. , Arredondo Brandy , Geiss Carley , Vigoureux Taylor F. D. , Hoogland Aasha I. , Chung Christine H. , Muzaffar Jameel , Patel Krupal B. , Gonzalez Brian D. , Jim Heather S. L. , Kirtane Kedar
Published: June 2022

Objective

This study aimed to describe considerations for developing supportive care interventions targeted to head and neck cancer (HNC) survivors.

Methods

One‐time semi‐structured interviews (N = 33) were conducted with HNC survivors who had recently finished treatment (n = 20) and HNC providers (e.g., physicians, nurses; n = 13). Interviews were transcribed verbatim and coded using inductive applied thematic analysis techniques to identify themes.

Results

HNC survivors (75% male; M = 61 years old) and providers (54% physicians; 62% female) were unanimously supportive of developing HNC‐specific supportive care interventions. Participants described potential benefits of offering interventions at various points throughout the HNC treatment and survivorship trajectory rather than at a single critical time. Many participants preferred group‐based interventions because of the high value of peer‐support. Others described how group interventions may not be appropriate for all HNC survivors due to risks for negative social comparisons and exacerbated anxiety. Participants suggested topics that should be addressed in HNC‐specific interventions including education about acute and long‐term side effects, symptom management, nutritional support, relationship/social role changes, grief/loss, and fear of recurrence.

Conclusions

HNC‐specific supportive care interventions are critically needed, as survivors experience persistent symptoms and distinct psychosocial concerns that impact quality of life. Findings from this study can inform the development of supportive care interventions targeted to the unique psychosocial concerns of HNC survivors.
XPS Examination of the Chemical Composition of PEGMUA‐Coated Gold Nanoparticles
Authors: Hepperle Philine , Herman Alexander , Khanbabaee Behnam , Baek Woon Yong , Nettelbeck Heidi , Rabus Hans
Published: June 2022

A surface chemical analysis of 12 nm diameter gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) coated with polyethylene glycol (PEG)‐11‐mercaptoundecanoic acid (MUA) is performed by means of X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). For this purpose, the PEGMUA‐coated AuNPs are deposited using two different deposition techniques, drop‐casting or spin‐coating, on a thin‐film carbon substrate. The measurements show that AuNPs are present in the +I oxidation state due to the synthesis process of the coated AuNPs, and in the Au(0) oxidation state. Carbon and oxygen contaminations are detected on both the coating surface and carbon substrate. While sputtering of the sample with argon enables the removal of carbon and oxygen contaminations, it also removes part of the coating on the sample surface. The two deposition methods, however, do not cause any chemical structural changes to the nanoparticles.
Interval Model of a Memristor Crossbar Network
Authors: Morozov Alexander Yurievich , Abgaryan Karine Karlenovna , Reviznikov Dmitry Leonidovich
Published: June 2022

This article covers the modeling of memristive oxide‐based elements within the context of a complex simulation model of an analog self‐learning spiking neural network. According to the experimental data, the nature of the memristor operation is stochastic, as evidenced by the variation in the current–voltage characteristics for different resistive switching cycles. Often, the existing mathematical models of memristors do not fully reproduce the experimental results, which can adversely affect the accuracy of neuromorphic network simulation. It is proposed to use the interval approach to take into account the variations in the element characteristics. The idea is to introduce interval parameters into the mathematical model. Thus, the simulation results at each moment are interval estimates of phase variables. The values of interval parameters are calculated in such a way that the intervals completely contain the experimental data. When simulating the operation of the entire analog self‐learning spiking neural network, at each training epoch the parameters of the memristors are set randomly from the found intervals. The approbation of the proposed approach is carried out on the problem of pattern recognition by the crossbar architecture network with the LiNbO3‐based memristive elements.
Theoretical investigation on two‐dimensional monofluorinated phenylethylammonium perovskite
Authors: Sui Guomin , Yang Guang , Zhang Bao , Feng Yaqing
Published: June 2022

More and more two‐dimensional (2D) perovskites are synthesized and used in solar cells. Theoretical investigations on their structural and electronic properties can explore the origin of crystal structural and optoelectronic differences caused by organic spacers. Here, formation energy, non‐covalent interaction, band structure, exciton binding energy, carrier mobility, and optical absorption spectra of 2D monofluorinated phenylethylammonium lead iodide perovskite were calculated using density functional theory. Results show that steric effect leads to the orientational disorder of spacers in ortho‐fluorinating phenylethylammonium perovskite, which further lead to a poor photovoltaic performance and weak interaction leads to the herringbone configuration of spacers in meta‐fluorinating phenylethylammonium perovskite. Exciton binding energy significantly influences the short circuit current density (JSC) which can well explain the experimental trends of JSC. This research shows that para‐fluorinating is the best choice and the important of weak interactions and inductive effect, providing a guideline for new spacer designing.
A cable driven robotic palpation system with contact force sensing based on cable tension observation
Authors: Francis Chikweto , Sato Taiga , Okuyama Takeshi , Tanaka Mami
Published: June 2022

Background

Prostate Cancer screening based on manual palpation is subjective. Robotic palpation systems can objectively acquire stiffness conditions of the prostate.

Methods

A 2DoF cable driven robotic system for prostate palpation is proposed. An indirect method to estimate the contact force based on cable tension observation is presented. Kinematic models and a joint angle estimation method to determine the tip position of the probe are derived. Positioning accuracy was verified using an optical marker tracking system and by displacement measurement, respectively. The contact force estimation method was validated on silicone phantom samples.

Results

A good consistence between the estimated and measured contact force was observed. The contact force was correlated with the elastic modulus of each silicone phantom. There was also a good agreement between the theoretical and the measured tip position.

Conclusion

In the proposed palpation system, the indirect contact force estimation method is viable and holds potential for the stiffness assessment of the prostate. The tip position vital for palpation can be determined through estimated joint angles.
Indirect Immunofluorescence on Rat Bladder Epithelium in Patients with Pemphigus Vulgaris with an Extended Follow-Up
Authors: Samadi Mahsa , Najafi Anahita , Naziriyan Amir , Toosi Roja , Faramarzi Atefeh , Balighi Kamran , Noormohammadpour Pedram , Mahmoudi Hamidreza , Daneshpazhooh Maryam
Published: June 2022

Background

Indirect immunofluorescence (IIF) on rat bladder epithelium (RBE) has been widely used to detect anti-plakin antibodies present in paraneoplastic pemphigus (PNP). However, anti-plakin antibodies have also been found in a group of patients with pemphigus vulgaris (PV).

Objectives

To assess the reactivity rate of PV sera in IIF using RBE as substrate and the diagnostic usefulness of the aforementioned test.

Methods

Patients diagnosed with PV presenting to Razi Hospital, Tehran, Iran, were recruited. The patients' demographics, disease severity, and response to the initial treatment were recorded. Sera were collected and tested by IIF on RBE and by desmoglein 3/1 (Dsg 3/1) enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Patients were followed up closely for a mean of 53.9 months for any evidence of malignancy.

Results

Forty-six patients were enroled (mean age of 42.9 years old, 31 females). Nine sera (19.6%) showed reactivity in IIF on RBE. Mean serum anti-Dsg levels did not differ significantly among the two groups with positive and negative IIF results. Negative anti-Dsg3 was related to a higher positive rate in IIF on RBE. There was no significant correlation between the reactivity of IIF on RBE and patients' demographic, clinical, or serological characteristics.

Conclusions

IIF on RBE is a sensitive test for detecting antibodies against plakins. However, it has a relatively high false-positive rate in PV, probably due to the epitope spreading phenomenon. This test should be suggested when there is a clinical or immunohistopathological suspicion of PNP and should be interpreted with caution.
An Improved Synthesis of 1λ6,2,4,6‐Thiatriazine‐1,3,5‐trione Derivatives – the Sulfonimidamide‐featured Triazinones
Authors: Chen Yantao , Kollback Johanna , Aurell Carl‐Johan
Published: June 2022

N,N’‐dicarbamoylation of 4‐methylbenzenesulfon‐imidamide with carbonyldiimidazole, followed by a mono‐nucleophilic substitution with amines and subsequential ring closure in one‐pot, afforded 1λ6,2,4,6‐thiatriazine‐1,3,5‐trione derivatives in up to 83 % yields. The protocol also works well for aliphatic sulfonimidamides, such as methyl sulfonimidamide. The mechanism of formation of both desired and unexpected products is discussed.
Hybrid Molecules of Hydroxycinnamic and Hydroxybenzoic Acids as Antioxidant and Potential Drug: A DFT Study
Authors: Khargharia Sangeeta , Rohman Rakiba , Kar Rahul
Published: June 2022

Due to the disruption of homeostasis, the amount of free radicals produced may increase during metabolic processes leading to oxidative stress and may cause numerous diseases. Antioxidant prevents oxidative stress. Here, we have designed twenty hybrid antioxidant molecules which are also potential drugs. These molecules are mainly hybrids of hydroxybenzoic acids and hydroxycinnamic acids. At first, we have carried out a conformational analysis to find out the most stable structure of the molecules. Conformational studies are performed with the MP2 method. Thereafter, the physicochemical parameters are calculated, showing that these molecules are probable antioxidants. Further, we have investigated the free radical scavenging capacity of these molecules for inactivating eight prototype oxyradicals. The scavenging capacity was estimated by considering Gibbs free energy for the three mechanisms, viz. HAT, SPLET, and SET‐PT. Our study on mechanisms shows that for these molecules HAT and SPLET are favorable in the gas phase, while in solvent medium HAT and SET‐PT are competitive. An empirical rule for combining such hydroxycinnamic and hydroxybenzoic acids is proposed. In addition, the druglikeness of the molecules is calculated using Lipinski's rule of five. The advantage of our set of designed hybrid molecules is that they show antioxidant behavior with pharmacophoric characteristics. Thus, the set of promising antioxidants with drug‐like properties could create new prospects in drug discovery.
Elucidation of Structure–Activity Relations in Proton Electroreduction at Pd Surfaces: Theoretical and Experimental Study
Authors: Schmidt Thorsten O. , Ngoipala Apinya , Arevalo Ryan L. , Watzele Sebastian A. , Lipin Raju , Kluge Regina M. , Hou Shujin , Haid Richard W. , Senyshyn Anatoliy , Gubanova Elena L. , Bandarenka Aliaksandr S. , Vandichel Matthias
Published: June 2022

The structure–activity relationship is a cornerstone topic in catalysis, which lays the foundation for the design and functionalization of catalytic materials. Of particular interest is the catalysis of the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) by palladium (Pd), which is envisioned to play a major role in realizing a hydrogen‐based economy. Interestingly, experimentalists observed excess heat generation in such systems, which became known as the debated “cold fusion” phenomenon. Despite the considerable attention on this report, more fundamental knowledge, such as the impact of the formation of bulk Pd hydrides on the nature of active sites and the HER activity, remains largely unexplored. In this work, classical electrochemical experiments performed on model Pd(hkl) surfaces, “noise” electrochemical scanning tunneling microscopy (n‐EC‐STM), and density functional theory are combined to elucidate the nature of active sites for the HER. Results reveal an activity trend following Pd(111) > Pd(110) > Pd(100) and that the formation of subsurface hydride layers causes morphological changes and strain, which affect the HER activity and the nature of active sites. These findings provide significant insights into the role of subsurface hydride formation on the structure–activity relations toward the design of efficient Pd‐based nanocatalysts for the HER.
High‐Performance Integrated Solar Steam Generator for Synergetic Freshwater Production, Salt Harvesting, and Electricity Generation
Authors: Mao Jian , Li Jing-Jing , Xie An-Quan , Liang Yunzheng , Yang Yue , Zhu Liangliang , Chen Su
Published: June 2022

Photothermal desalination driven by solar energy has emerged as a promising strategy for freshwater and clean energy production. One of the great challenges in interfacial evaporation is simultaneous achievement of superior freshwater production, salt harvesting, and electricity generation in an evaporator. Herein, an all‐inclusive photothermal solar steam generator using high‐performance photothermic converting film is reported, featuring in interconnected fibrous network, broadband absorption, heat insulation, and unidirectional water transfer. The superior characteristics can readily form a constant salinity gradient in system during vaporization, not only realizing the spatial isolation of evaporation and salt crystallization zones to harvesting freshwater and salt separately, but more importantly achieving continuous electricity generation from salinity gradient power without trade‐offs. Such stable solar steam generator integrated with efficient photothermal converting material and rational structural design highlights the practical consideration toward solar distillation by deep desalination, which can not only sustainably achieve the freshwater and salt production, but collaboratively generate the electricity for emergency needs.
Blueshifting the Absorption of a Small‐Molecule Donor and Using it as the Third Component to Achieve High‐Efficiency Ternary Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Qi Zhenyu , Yu Han , Yu Jianwei , Zhao Heng , Zhao Chaoyue , Chen Li , Li Chao , Ma Wei , Gao Feng , Zhang Guangye , Yan He
Published: June 2022

Adding a small‐molecule donor (SMD) to state‐of‐the‐art nonfullerene organic solar cells (OSCs) is demonstrated as a useful strategy to construct ternary organic solar cells, as SMDs typically have high crystallinity and can tune charge transport properties of OSCs. However, the absorption of most SMDs overlaps with typical donor polymers (e.g., PM6), which is against the general guidelines of adopting materials with complementary absorption in ternary OSCs. Herein, the absorption of state‐of‐art SMDs (BTR‐Cl) by linking the beta position of the outer thiophene to the alpha position of the inner thiophene unit is intentionally blueshifted. The resulting molecule β‐S1 shows a maximum absorption peak at 505 nm in the film state, which exhibits wider bandgap and shows complementary absorption with the host system (PM6:Y6). The corresponding ternary OSCs with 20%wt β‐S1 show significantly enhanced efficiency from 16.2% to 17.1% due to the increased short‐circuit current (J
SC) and improved fill factor (FF). Herein, an effective strategy to design SMDs with both wider bandgaps and higher crystallinity for high‐performance ternary OSCs is presented.
On the design of an advanced business rule engine
Authors: Jiménez Patricia , Corchuelo Rafael
Published: June 2022

Business rules govern how well‐managed companies perform every day. They are expected to be written in natural language because they are devised by business people. That makes it difficult to translate them automatically into executable rules that can be integrated into typical information systems. Our industrial and academic research concludes that the current tools have a number of problems, namely: many of them do not pay any attention to the SBVR standard; some of them are not multi‐language; most of them cannot achieve perfect parsing accuracy; some of them are not domain agnostic; some of them use proprietary technologies; some of them do not produce executable rules; and none supports exploratory what‐if analyses natively. In this article, we present Tier‐Rules, which is a system that overcomes the previous problems. We also report on an industrial case study that helps illustrate it in practice.
Utility of trio‐based prenatal exome sequencing incorporating splice‐site and mitochondrial genome assessment in pregnancies with fetal ultrasound anomalies: prospective cohort study
Authors: Zhu X. , Gao Z. , Wang Y. , Huang W. , Li Q. , Jiao Z. , Liu N. , Kong X.
Published: June 2022

Objective

To evaluate the utility of trio‐based prenatal exome sequencing (pES), incorporating splice‐site and mitochondrial genome assessment, in the prenatal diagnosis of fetuses with ultrasound anomalies and normal copy‐number variant sequencing (CNV‐seq) results.

Methods

This was a prospective study of 90 ongoing pregnancies with ultrasound anomalies that underwent trio‐based pES after receiving normal CNV‐seq results, from September 2020 to November 2021, in a single center in China. By using pES with a panel encompassing exome coding and splicing regions as well as mitochondrial genome for fetuses and parents, we identified the underlying genetic causes of fetal anomalies, incidental fetal findings and parental carrier status. Information on pregnancy outcome and the impact of pES findings on parental decision‐making was collected.

Results

Of the 90 pregnancies included, 28 (31.1%) received a diagnostic result that could explain the fetal ultrasound anomalies. The highest diagnostic yield was noted for brain abnormalities (3/6 (50.0%)), followed by hydrops (4/9 (44.4%)) and skeletal abnormalities (13/34 (38.2%)). Collectively, 34 variants of 20 genes were detected in the 28 diagnosed cases, with 55.9% (19/34) occurring de novo. Variants of uncertain significance (VUS) associated with fetal phenotypes were detected in six (6.7%) fetuses. Interestingly, fetal (n = 4) and parental (n = 3) incidental findings (IFs) were detected in seven (7.8%) cases. These included two fetuses carrying a de‐novo likely pathogenic (LP) variant of the CIC and FBXO11 genes, respectively, associated with neurodevelopmental disorders, and one fetus with a LP variant in a mitochondrial gene. The remaining fetus presented with unilateral renal dysplasia and was incidentally found to carry a pathogenic PKD1 gene variant resulting in adult‐onset polycystic kidney, which was later confirmed to be inherited from the mother. In addition, parental heterozygous variants associated with autosomal recessive diseases were detected in three families, including one with additional fetal diagnostic findings. Diagnostic results or fetal IFs contributed to parental decision‐making about termination of the pregnancy in 26 families (26/72 (36.1%)), while negative pES results or identification of VUS encouraged 40 families (40/72 (55.6%)) to continue their pregnancy, which ended in a live birth in all cases.

Conclusion

Trio‐based pES can provide additional genetic information for pregnancies with fetal ultrasound anomalies without a CNV‐seq diagnosis. The incidental findings and parental carrier status reported by trio‐based pES with splice‐site and mitochondrial genome analysis extend its clinical application, but careful genetic counseling is warranted. © 2022 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
Extremely prolonged neuromuscular blockade following a single dose of rocuronium in a dog
Authors: Gomez Ana Gonzalez , Auckburally Adam , Flaherty Derek
Published: June 2022

Rocuronium is a non‐depolarising neuromuscular block drug extensively used in canine patients due to its favourable characteristics, including the fastest onset of action among all non‐depolarising neuromuscular blocking agents, lack of active metabolites and intermediate duration of effect. Although rocuronium elimination is relatively independent of kidney function, in the past few years, a growing number of reports describing a prolonged duration of the effect of rocuronium in human patients with renal failure have been published. However, to date, the mechanism behind this phenomenon is unclear. The present case describes the development of extremely prolonged neuromuscular blockade (>5 hours) following a single dose of 0.5 mg/kg rocuronium in a female English bulldog with renal disease where neostigmine failed to provide adequate reversal, which was only subsequently achieved following administration of sugammadex. Aside from renal disease, other possible causes of this prolonged duration (relative drug overdose, hypoalbuminaemia, co‐administered drugs, neostigmine‐induced neuromuscular blockade and idiosyncratic reaction to rocuronium) are also discussed.
Unemployment, Social Networks, and Health Inequalities
Authors: Krug Gerhard , Brandt Stefan , Gamper Markus , Knabe André , Klärner Andreas
Published: June 2022

The loss of employment is an event that interferes with the lives of everyone affected, causes stress, and can have a negative impact on their health. Meta-analyses show that unemployed people have a worse state of health and a mortality risk that is at least 1.6 times higher than those who are employed. Unemployment is associated with a lower mental and physical health status and, in some cases, with riskier health behavior (particularly tobacco consumption). There are two important theses on the role of social networks in this context: (1) Unemployment changes social networks so that they no longer fulfill their positive function for health (mediator thesis); (2) Unemployment leaves social networks unchanged and persons with resource-rich networks suffer less from health losses due to unemployment (moderator thesis). This article provides an overview of empirical analyses on the topic of networks and unemployment.
Migration as a Health Inequality Dimension? Natio-Ethno-Cultural Affiliation, Health, and Social Networks
Authors: Gamper Markus , Kupfer Annett
Published: June 2022

Concepts like race, migration background, or ethnic group are more and more being investigated in health research. It should be noted that those concepts themselves are very heterogeneous. They are, for example, endowed with different rights (e.g., cosmopolitan migrants from the global north, refugees from the global south) (Ambrosini & van der Leun, 2015) or have to deal with racism or discrimination (Nazroo, 2003). A challenge and a recurrent difficulty in research on the health of migrants is the operationalization of studies due to the heterogeneity of the group. On the one hand, it is unclear which criteria—nationality, mother tongue, ethnicity of grandparents, race, place of birth, place of migration as well as migration regime—are used to determine “migrants,” which makes comparability of the studies difficult (Sheldon & Parker, 1992). On the other hand, the group of people with a history of migration is very heterogeneous with regard to other lines of difference, such as social milieu/class and gender, but also country of origin and reason and time of migration. This makes the health situation of the so-called migrants very different, and it cannot be described in a generalized way. Research shows that social integration and social support can play a big role in the health status of migrants. It can provide information to the healthcare system, provide emotional support, or simply make someone feel like they are not alone. Social networks also play a big role for people with a so-called migration background or with a so-called different ethnic background (Johnson et al., 2017). In this chapter, we explore the link between health, migration, and networks. In doing so, we will try to minimize the uncertainty of the heterogeneity of the group as much as possible.
Social Networks, Family Social Capital, and Child Health
Authors: Lois Daniel
Published: June 2022

This article reviews literature on social network effects on children's health. Regarding structural aspects, it can be seen that social networks for children consist in the inner circle mainly of members of the core family (parents, siblings) and in the extended circle of other family members such as grandparents and friends. Network size and the proportion of friends in the network increase with the age of the children. With regard to network effects on health it becomes clear that child health is influenced directly by the child’s social network as well as indirectly by the social network of the parents. Of the various theoretical mechanisms that can be used to explain these findings —for example, social support, social contagion, or social control—the support mechanism is best empirically confirmed. Furthermore, it is consistently shown that family social capital correlates positively with the socioeconomic resources of parents in Western industrialized countries. In emerging and developing countries, it is apparent that children’s health is increasingly dependent on the availability of social support.
ICT-Based Customized Off-Loading Cushion to Prevent Pressure Ulcers for People with Spinal Cord Injury: A Pilot Study
Authors: Lee Yun-hwan , Moon Kwang-tae , Kim Dong-wan , Kim Jongbae
Published: June 2022

The wheelchair cushion is one of the intervention methods for preventing pressure ulcers in people with spinal cord injuries. Recently, a customized wheelchair cushion along with off-loading technology that distributes pressure by removing the seat surface in contact with the bony protrusion of the buttocks in the sitting position is attracting attention. In spite of this, they are exposed to the risk of secondary pressure ulcers because they cannot recognize their body pressure distribution and unintended posture changes due to sensory dysfunction. Accordingly, we developed an ICT-based off-loading cushion that can monitor the pressure distribution and pelvis alignment in a sitting position in real-time. People with spinal cord injuries who participated in the pilot study were satisfied with the device and service, and the ICT-based customized off-loading cushion had a positive psychosocial effect on them. We hope that this will contribute to improving the quality of life by preventing pressure ulcers in people with spinal cord injuries.