bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Performance measurement tools for sustainable business: A systematic literature review on the sustainability balanced scorecard use
Authors: Mio Chiara , Costantini Antonio , Panfilo Silvia
Published: August 2021

This article focuses on the sustainability balanced scorecard (SBSC) as a performance measurement and management control tool that can play an essential role in driving companies towards sustainability goals. According to previous studies, research on the SBSC can be structured into the stages of design, implementation, use and evolution. This study aims to systematise knowledge on the use stage. Specifically, it addresses the determinants affecting SBSC use, the approaches that companies employ in SBSC application and the outcomes it generates in terms of the effects on sustainability control and management. The research was conducted through a systematic literature review considering 65 articles published in ABS‐ranked journals in the period 2000–2020. Findings add to the body of literature on the SBSC in management and accounting fields, providing an overview of current research, mapping research streams, indicating potential future research avenues and highlighting some managerial implications.
Effects of animal grazing on vegetation biomass and soil moisture on a typical steppe in Inner Mongolia, China
Authors: Lin Xi , Zhao Hongbin , Zhang Shengwei , Li Xiaoyuan , Gao Wenlong , Ren Zhaoyi , Luo Meng
Published: August 2021

Grasslands play a very important role in the water and carbon cycle of arid and semi‐arid areas, where they are the main type of steppe globally. With this said, research into grassland ecological processes mostly consists of single‐factor controlled experiments such as precipitation, temperature or grazing, and few studies have investigated the effects of synergistic interactions between multiple factors on grassland hydrological, soil and vegetation processes. In this study, we set up a prohibited grazing area in a typical area of the Xilingole Steppe in Inner Mongolia, China. Vegetation (species richness (SR), above‐ground biomass (AGB), below‐ground biomass (BGB), etc.), precipitation and the soil moisture of 5 cm, 10 cm, 15 cm and 30 cm depths were observed continuously from 2015 to 2018. The results indicate that the species number in areas where grazing is prohibited is higher than where it is grazed, and the number and species of dominant species changes with grazing prohibition time. The AGB and BGB of prohibited areas is higher than grazed areas, and the variance rate of AGB increased rapidly (20% and 45%) at the first 2 years and then stabilized (52% and 55%), but BGB's variance rate increased slowly from 12% to 20%. The soil moisture content in the study area is higher in the surface layer than in the deeper layers. In the grazing prohibition zone, the above ground biomass (AGB) and belowground biomass (BGB) were both significantly correlated with volumetric water content (VWC) at the 0.01 level. In grazing areas, there was no significant correlation between AGB and soil moisture, and the coefficient of determination between BGB and VWC was 0.6127 (p < 0.01). SR did not have a significant relationship with soil moisture but indirectly response to it through BGB, especially in prohibited site. These results are important for understanding water cycle processes, grazing management and address food security issues across steppe in arid and semi‐arid regions.
Plant traits mediate the effects of climate on phytophagous beetle diversity on Mt. Kilimanjaro
Authors: Njovu Henry K. , Steffan‐Dewenter Ingolf , Gebert Friederike , Schellenberger Costa David , Kleyer Michael , Wagner Thomas , Peters Marcell K.
Published: August 2021

Patterns of insect diversity along elevational gradients are well described in ecology. However, it remains little tested how variation in the quantity, quality, and diversity of food resources influence these patterns. Here we analyzed the direct and indirect effects of climate, food quantity (estimated by net primary productivity), quality (variation in the specific leaf area index, leaf nitrogen to phosphorus and leaf carbon to nitrogen ratio), and food diversity (diversity of leaf traits) on the species richness of phytophagous beetles along the broad elevation and land use gradients of Mt. Kilimanjaro, Tanzania. We sampled beetles at 65 study sites located in both natural and anthropogenic habitats, ranging from 866 to 4,550 m asl. We used path analysis to unravel the direct and indirect effects of predictor variables on species richness. In total, 3,154 phytophagous beetles representing 19 families and 304 morphospecies were collected. We found that the species richness of phytophagous beetles was bimodally distributed along the elevation gradient with peaks at the lowest (˜866 m asl) and upper mid‐elevations (˜3,200 m asl) and sharply declined at higher elevations. Path analysis revealed temperature‐ and climate‐driven changes in primary productivity and leaf trait diversity to be the best predictors of changes in the species richness of phytophagous beetles. Species richness increased with increases in mean annual temperature, primary productivity, and with increases in the diversity of leaf traits of local ecosystems. Our study demonstrates that, apart from temperature, the quantity and diversity of food resources play a major role in shaping diversity gradients of phytophagous insects. Drivers of global change, leading to a change of leaf traits and causing reductions in plant diversity and productivity, may consequently reduce the diversity of herbivore assemblages.
Impact of Lithium‐Ion Coordination on Lithium Electrodeposition
Authors: Sheng Li , Wu Yanzhou , Tian Jiekang , Wang Li , Wang Jianlong , Tang Yaping , Xu Hong , He Xiangming
Published: August 2021

The lithium dendrite and parasitic reactions are two major challenges for lithium (Li) metal anode—the most promising anode materials for high‐energy‐density batteries. In this work, both the dendrite and parasitic reactions that occurred between the liquid electrolyte and Li‐metal anode could be largely inhibited by regulating the Li+‐solvation structure. The saturated Li+‐solvation species exist in commonly used LiPF6 liquid electrolyte that needs extra energy to desolvation during Li‐electrodeposition. Partial solvation induced high‐energy state Li‐ions would be more energy favorable during the electron‐reduction process, dominating the competition with solvent reduction reactions. The Li‐symmetric cells that are cycling at higher temperatures show better performance; the cycled lithium metal anode with metallic lustre and the dendrite‐free surface is observed. Theoretical calculation and experimental measurements reveal the existence of high‐energy state Li+‐solvates species, and their concentration increases with temperature. This study provides insight into the Li+‐solvation structure and its electrodeposition characteristics.
Water Addition During Oil Extraction Affects on Virgin Olive Oil Ethanol Content, Quality and Composition
Authors: Beltrán Gabriel , Bejaoui Mohamed Aymen , Sánchez‐Ortiz Araceli , Jiménez Antonio
Published: August 2021

Ethanol is the alcoholic precursor of fatty acid ethyl esters (FAEEs) in virgin olive oil (VOO). Because of its miscibility, water addition during oil extraction may affect oil ethanol content and then, the FAEEs synthesis during oil storage. In this work, the effect of water addition on VOO ethanol content and composition is studied. Water addition at two extraction systems (two and three phases) is compared and for vertical centrifuge, water addition at different temperatures is assayed. Ethanol content, quality parameters, and healthy components are determined in the oils. Results indicate three phase system gives oils with a 25% lower ethanol content than two phases. Ethanol reduction because of water addition is more important for three phases system (≈14%). For vertical centrifugation, ethanol is lowered as water dose and temperature increase. In general, water addition for any of the extraction steps analyzed reduces the oil ethanol concentration but other aspects such as fruity intensity and phenol content are also lowered.

Practical applications: Virgin olive oil final ethanol content, and then its FAEEs concentration, does not only depend on the health and conservation status of olives, but also on the extraction system used and the amount of water added to the extraction process. The knowledge of the impact on ethanol content of water addition during oil extraction can be useful for olive oil legislators in order to keep the approved limits of FAEEs or to modify them. For oil producers, results can help to reduce the oil ethanol content and then FAEEs synthesis during virgin olive oil storage.
Synthesis, Reactivity and Activation Modes of Fluoroalkyl Thiosulfonates and Selenosulfonates
Authors: Ghiazza Clément , Billard Thierry
Published: August 2021

Reagent design is at the cornerstone of modern organofluorine chemistry. The past decades have seen the emergence of diverse families of reagents with the aim of introducing fluoroalkylthio or seleno groups in an efficient and selective way. Among them, highly versatile fluoroalkyl thiosulfonates and selenosulfonates are in the foreground of the recent developments. Their applicability is discussed in detail in this Minireview, with a specific focus on the reactivity and activation modes.
Cortical network organization reflects clinical response to subthalamic nucleus deep brain stimulation in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Bočková Martina , Výtvarová Eva , Lamoš Martin , Klimeš Petr , Jurák Pavel , Halámek Josef , Goldemundová Sabina , Baláž Marek , Rektor Ivan
Published: August 2021

The degree of response to subthalamic nucleus deep brain stimulation (STN‐DBS) is individual and hardly predictable. We hypothesized that DBS‐related changes in cortical network organization are related to the clinical effect. Network analysis based on graph theory was used to evaluate the high‐density electroencephalography (HDEEG) recorded during a visual three‐stimuli paradigm in 32 Parkinson's disease (PD) patients treated by STN‐DBS in stimulation “off” and “on” states. Preprocessed scalp data were reconstructed into the source space and correlated to the behavioral parameters. In the majority of patients (n = 26), STN‐DBS did not lead to changes in global network organization in large‐scale brain networks. In a subgroup of suboptimal responders (n = 6), identified according to reaction times (RT) and clinical parameters (lower Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale [UPDRS] score improvement after DBS and worse performance in memory tests), decreased global connectivity in the 1–8 Hz frequency range and regional node strength in frontal areas were detected. The important role of the supplementary motor area for the optimal DBS response was demonstrated by the increased node strength and eigenvector centrality in good responders. This response was missing in the suboptimal responders. Cortical topologic architecture is modified by the response to STN‐DBS leading to a dysfunction of the large‐scale networks in suboptimal responders.
Extracellular vesicles derived from mesenchymal stem/stromal cells: The regenerative impact in liver diseases
Authors: Psaraki Adriana , Ntari Lydia , Karakostas Christos , Korrou‐Karava Despoina , Roubelakis Maria G.
Published: August 2021

Liver dysfunctions are classified into acute and chronic diseases, which comprise a heterogeneous group of pathological features and a high mortality rate. Liver transplantation remains the gold‐standard therapy for most liver diseases, with concomitant limitations related to donor organ shortage and lifelong immunosuppressive therapy. A concept in liver therapy intends to overcome these limitations based on the secreted extracellular vesicles (EVs; microvesicles and exosomes) by mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs). A significant number of studies have shown that factors released by MSCs could induce liver repair and ameliorate systemic inflammation through paracrine effects. It is well known that this paracrine action is based not only on the secretion of cytokines and growth factors but also on EVs, which regulate pathways associated with inflammation, hepatic fibrosis, integrin‐linked protein kinase signaling, and apoptosis. Herein, we extensively discuss the differential effects of MSC‐EVs on different liver diseases and on cellular and animal models and address the complex molecular mechanisms involved in the therapeutic potential of EVs. In addition, we cover the crucial information regarding the type of molecules contained in MSC‐EVs that can be effective in the context of liver diseases. In conclusion, outcomes on MSC‐EV‐mediated therapy are expected to lead to an innovative, cell‐free, noninvasive, less immunogenic, and nontoxic alternative strategy for liver treatment and to provide important mechanistic information on the reparative function of liver cells.
Morphometric Analysis of Mast Cells in Tumor Predicts Recurrence of Hepatocellular Carcinoma After Liver Transplantation
Authors: Rohr‐Udilova Nataliya , Tsuchiya Kaoru , Timelthaler Gerald , Salzmann Martina , Meischl Tobias , Wöran Katharina , Stift Judith , Herac Merima , Schulte‐Hermann Rolf , Peck‐Radosavljevic Markus , Sieghart Wolfgang , Eferl Robert , Jensen‐Jarolim Erika , Trauner Michael , Pinter Matthias
Published: August 2021

Tumor‐infiltrating immune cells are relevant prognostic and immunotherapeutic targets in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Mast cells play a key role in allergic response but may also be involved in anticancer immunity. Digital morphometric analysis of patient tissue sections has become increasingly available for clinical routine and provides unbiased quantitative data. Here, we apply morphometric analysis of mast cells to retrospectively evaluate their relevance for HCC recurrence in patients after orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT). A total of 173 patients underwent OLT for HCC at the Medical University of Vienna (21 women, 152 men; 55.2 ± 7.9 years; 74 beyond Milan criteria, 49 beyond up‐to‐7 criteria for liver transplantation). Tissue arrays from tumors and corresponding surrounding tissues were immunohistochemically stained for mast cell tryptase. Mast cells were quantified by digital tissue morphometric analysis and correlated with HCC recurrence. Mast cells were detected in 93% of HCC tumors and in all available surrounding liver tissues. Tumor tissues revealed lower mast cell density than corresponding surrounding tissues (P < 0.0001). Patients lacking intratumoral mast cells (iMCs) displayed larger tumors and higher tumor recurrence rates both in the whole cohort (hazard ratio [HR], 2.74; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.09‐6.93; P = 0.029) and in patients beyond transplant criteria (Milan HR, 2.81; 95% CI, 1.04‐7.62; P = 0.01; up‐to‐7 HR, 3.58; 95% CI, 1.17‐10.92; P = 0.02). Notably, high iMC identified additional patients at low risk classified outside the Milan and up‐to‐7 criteria, whereas low iMC identified additional patients at high risk classified within the alpha‐fetoprotein French and Metroticket criteria. iMCs independently predicted tumor recurrence in a multivariate Cox regression analysis (Milan HR, 2.38; 95% CI, 1.16‐4.91; P = 0.019; up‐to‐7 HR, 2.21; 95% CI, 1.05‐4.62; P = 0.035). Conclusion: Hepatic mast cells might be implicated in antitumor immunity in HCC. Morphometric analysis of iMCs refines prognosis of HCC recurrence after liver transplantation.
Hippocampal subfield volumes and memory discrimination in the developing brain
Authors: Bouyeure Antoine , Patil Sandesh , Mauconduit Franck , Poiret Clément , Isai Damien , Noulhiane Marion
Published: August 2021

The ability to keep distinct memories of similar events is underpinned by a type of neural computation called pattern separation (PS). Children typically report coarse‐grained memories narratives lacking specificity and detail. This lack of memory specificity is illustrative of an immature or impaired PS. Despite its importance for the ontogeny of memory, data regarding the maturation of PS during childhood is still scarce. PS is known to rely on the hippocampus, particularly on hippocampal subfields DG and CA3. In this study, we used a memory discrimination task, a behavioral proxy for PS, and manually segmented hippocampal subfields volumes in the hippocampal body in a cohort of 26 children aged from 5 to 12 years. We examined the association between subfields volumes and memory discrimination performance. The main results were: (1) we showed age‐related differences of memory discrimination suggesting a continuous increase of memory performance during early to late childhood. (2) We evidenced distinct associations between age and the volumes of hippocampal subfield, suggesting distinct developmental trajectories. (3) We showed a relationship between memory discrimination performance and the volumes of CA3 and subiculum. Our results further confirm the role of CA3 in memory discrimination, and suggest to scrutinize more closely the role of the subiculum. Overall, we showed that hippocampal subfields contribute distinctively to PS during development.
Increasing Olefin Metathesis Activity of Silica‐Supported Molybdenum Imido Adamantylidene Complexes through E Ligand σ‐Donation
Authors: Nater Darryl F. , Paul Bhaskar , Lätsch Lukas , Schrock Richard R. , Copéret Christophe
Published: August 2021

Molybdenum imido adamantylidene complexes with different substituents on the imido ligand (dipp=2,6‐diisopropylphenyl, ArF5=C6F5, and tBu) having distinct electron donating abilities were investigated for the metathesis of internal and terminal olefins, for both molecular and silica‐supported species using standardized protocols. Here we show that surface immobilization of these compounds results in dramatically increased activity compared to their molecular counterparts. Additionally, we show that electron withdrawing imido groups increase the activity of the compound towards terminal olefins while they simultaneously decrease the ability to metathesize internal olefins. Furthermore, these systems also show high stability when used as initiators in olefin metathesis, although the species that display higher initial activity deactivate faster than those that show more a more moderate reaction rate at first. Our catalytic studies, augmented by DFT calculations, show that all investigated compounds have a remarkably small energy difference between the trigonal bipyramidal (TBP) and square planar (SP) configurations of the metallacyclobutane intermediates, which has previously been linked to high activity.
Highly expressed of SERPINA3 indicated poor prognosis and involved in immune suppression in glioma
Authors: Yuan Qing , Wang Song‐Quan , Zhang Guang‐Tao , He Jie , Liu Zhi‐Dan , Wang Ming‐Rong , Cai Hong‐Qing , Wan Jing‐Hai
Published: August 2021

Introduction

The prognosis of patients with glioma is dismal. It has been reported that Serpin peptidase inhibitor clade A member 3 (SERPINA3) is associated with the mobility and invasion of tumor cells. Our study was designed to explore the value of SERPINA3 messenger RNA (mRNA) expression in the biological process, prognosis, and immune significance in glioma.

Methods

We analyzed the biological functions of SERPINA3 through data from the Chinese Glioma Genome Atlas databases. Differentially expressed genes and enrichment analysis were performed and correlations between SERPINA3 expression and immune cell infiltration were analyzed. Further, we validated the expression and the survival prediction role of SERPINA3 by using tissue microarrays and RNAscope in situ hybridization in 321 gliomas. The correlations between the expression and clinical‐pathological parameters as well as other biomarkers were examined.

Results

Univariate and multivariate regression both indicated that the level of SERPINA3 transcript represented an independent prognostic factor. High levels of SERPINA3 correlated with poor survival in patients with glioma. Expression of SERPINA3 mRNA was observed positively correlated with MCM6, IGFBP2, and FKBP10. Enrichment analysis showed SERPINA3 mainly enriched in immune‐related terms and signaling pathways including MAPK, TNF, P53, PI3K‐Akt, nuclear factor‐κB. Immune infiltration analysis further declare the SERPINA3 expression negatively correlated with levels of Macrophages M1, native CD4+ T cell, monocytes, and Mast cell activated. And overexpression of SERPINA3 correlated with low CD4+ T cell infiltration in glioma tissues.

Conclusions

SERPINA3 may play a key role in the biological process of glioma cells especially in immune suppression activities. SERPINA3 may serve as an independent survival prediction factor in glioma patients.
Changes in lower uterine segment thickness during different gestational weeks in pregnant women qualified for trial of labor after cesarean section
Authors: Rao Jiaming , Fan Dazhi , Chen Ting , Lin Dongxin , Ma Huiting , Lu Demei , Zeng Meng , Liu Yan , Guo Xiaoling , Liu Zhengping
Published: August 2021

Objective

To investigate the correlation between lower uterine segment thickness (LUST) and gestational weeks (GW) in women who attempted trial of labor after cesarean section (TOLAC) and to estimate the reference ranges of LUST.

Methods

A prospective cohort study was conducted between January 2019 and December 2020 at a tertiary‐care center in Foshan, China. A total of 2588 women who attempted TOLAC were included. LUST was measured in different trimesters using transabdominal ultrasound. Histograms were used to review the mean and standard deviations (SD) of LUST at different GW.

Results

The mean LUST of the patients were 6.90 ± 2.86, 4.36 ± 1.87, 2.83 ± 0.65, and 2.57 ± 0.51 mm in the first (12.10 ± 1.28 weeks), second (21.79 ± 3.40 weeks), middle third (34.28 ± 2.64 weeks), and late third (38.20 ± 1.00 weeks) trimesters, respectively. An inverse correlation was noted between LUST and uterine rupture in women who underwent a planned ERCD (P < 0.001), but not in women who attempted TOLAC during the late third trimester (P = 0.629).

Conclusion

LUST is inversely correlated with GW and decreases faster in the first and second trimesters than in the middle and late third trimesters. TOLAC should be approached with caution for pregnant women with a thin myometrium in late third trimester.
How to implement deprescribing into clinical practice
Authors: Pruskowski Jennifer A. , Jeffery Sean M. , Brandt Nicole , Zarowitz Barbara J. , Handler Steven M.
Published: August 2021

We currently live in the age of medication overload. More than 40% of older adults (≥65 years old) are prescribed ≥5 medications a day and nearly 20% take ≥10. Although medications can provide a wide variety of benefits, the number of medications prescribed is the largest predictor of drug‐drug interactions, nonadherence, and most importantly adverse drug events. Increasingly, patients, caregivers, and health care providers are employing deprescribing efforts as a solution to medication overload. Clinical pharmacists are well positioned to lead and/or contribute to deprescribing efforts. Deprescribing, however, is not commonly and consistently taught within the United States health professional curriculums, and deprescribing infrastructure support is currently limited. The goal of this review is to present a pragmatic approach to pharmacist‐driven clinical practice deprescribing implementation.
Efficacy of water skin decontamination in vivo in humans: A systematic review
Authors: Kashetsky Nadia , Law Rebecca M. , Maibach Howard I.
Published: August 2021

With the constant possibility of occupational exposures, chemical warfare, and targeted attacks, increased attention has been given to determining effective and timely dermal decontamination strategies. This systematic review summarises experimental studies reporting decontamination with water‐based solutions of dermal chemical contaminants with in vivo human data. Embase, MEDLINE, PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases were comprehensively searched using search terms (“cutaneous” or “skin” or “dermal” or “percutaneous”) and (“decontamination” or “decontaminant” or “skin decontamination”) to include 10 studies, representing 18 chemical contaminants, 199 participants, and 351 decontamination outcomes. Three studies included data from decontamination with water (10.8%, n = 38/351 decontamination outcomes), seven with soap and water (68.4%, n = 240/351 decontamination outcomes), and two with 10% isopropanol distilled water (20.8%, n = 73/351 decontamination outcomes). Results of dermal decontamination using water showed complete decontamination (CD) outcomes in 52.6% (n = 20/38) and partial decontamination (PD) in 47.4% (n = 18/38); using soap and water showed PD outcomes in 92.9% (n = 223/240) and minimal to no effect in 7.1% (n = 17/240); and using 10% isopropanol distilled water achieved PD outcomes in 100.0% (n = 73/73). Available data show that decontamination with water, soap and water, and 10% isopropanol distilled water is incomplete. Much remains to be learned about decontamination of the large variety of chemical contaminants including a range of molecular weights, lipid and water solubilities, melting points, volatility, and hydrogen bonds, as well as clinically relevant anatomic sites. A major void exists in data confirming or denying the completeness of decontamination by measuring absorption and excretion. The development of effective decontamination solutions is of high priority.
Radical versus conservative surgical management for liver hydatid cysts: A single‐center prospective cohort study
Authors: Baimakhanov Zhassulan , Kaniyev Shokan , Serikuly Erbol , Doskhanov Maxat , Askeyev Baglan , Baiguissova Dinara , Skakbayev Aidar , Sadykov Chingiz , Barlybay Raikhan , Seisembayev Manas , Baimakhanov Bolatbek
Published: August 2021

Background and Aim

We prospectively compared the clinical outcomes of radical and conservative surgical procedures for primary liver hydatid cysts, additionally radical surgical procedures with and without the two‐month administration of albendazole after the operation were compared.

Methods

Overall, 90 patients undergoing open surgical treatment for liver hydatid cysts were divided into three surgical groups: first group, patients who underwent radical surgery (pericystectomy) followed by albendazole treatment for 2 months following the operation group; second group, patients who underwent radical surgery(pericystectomy) without receiving albendazole after surgery group; third group, patients, who underwent conservative surgery (partial cystectomy) with albendazole treatment after surgery. The clinical outcomes and rate of recurrence were analyzed in follow‐up period.

Results

The mean surgery duration in the Radical groups was significantly longer in comparison to the Conservative surgery + Albendazole group. (212.0 and 202.5 min vs. 173.2 min; p < 0.05). Blood loss in the Radical groups was significantly higher in comparison to the Conservative surgery + Albendazole group (218.3 and 174.6 ml vs. 67.2 ml; p < 0.05). However, postoperative complication rate in the Radical group was significantly lower in comparison to Conservative surgery + Albendazole group (13.3% [n = 4] and 6.7% [n = 2] vs. 36% [n = 11]; p < 0.05). The postoperative hospital stay in both Radical groups was significantly lower in comparison to the Conservative surgery + Albendazole group (7.9 and 7.4 days vs. 11.3 days; p < 0.05).

Conclusion

In comparison to conservative surgery, radical surgery is a preferable treatment modality for patients with active liver hydatid cysts. Postoperative albendazole treatment is preferable, regardless of the type of surgical procedure.
Prevention challenges with current perceptions of HIV burden among HIV‐negative and never‐tested men who have sex with men in the Netherlands: a mixed‐methods study
Authors: Zimmermann Hanne ML , van Bilsen Ward PH , Boyd Anders , Prins Maria , van Harreveld Frenk , Davidovich Udi ,   HIV Transmission Elimination Team Amsterdam
Published: August 2021

Introduction

As biomedical advances improved HIV treatment, the perceptions of severity and anticipated consequences of HIV could have changed accordingly. This study investigates the current perceptions of severity and anticipated consequences of HIV infection and its association with sexual risk behaviour among HIV‐negative and never‐tested men who have sex with men (MSM) living in the Netherlands.

Methods

In‐depth interviews with recently diagnosed HIV‐positive MSM were used to develop a questionnaire measuring the perceived severity and anticipated consequences of HIV infection. The questionnaire was distributed online between April and July 2019. A structural equation model was constructed to explore the anticipated consequences contributing to the perceived HIV severity and to assess the association between the perceived severity and sexual risk behaviour.

Results

In total, 1,072 HIV‐negative and never‐tested MSM completed the questionnaire, of whom 28% reported recent sexual risk behaviour. Almost one‐quarter of participants (23%) had a low perceived HIV severity, which was associated with more prevalent sexual risk taking (β = −0.07, 95% CI = −0.12/−0.01). In this model, the perceived severity of HIV was more strongly associated with anticipated psychological consequences of HIV (β = 0.34, 95% CI = 0.24 to 0.44) and to a lesser extent with anticipated negative consequences of HIV on sex/relationships (β = 0.28, 95% CI = 0.19 to 0.38) and disclosure‐related consequences (β = 0.16, 95% CI = 0.07 to 0.26). Health‐related consequences of HIV were not significantly associated with the severity perceptions (β = 0.06, 95% CI = −0.03 to 0.14).

Conclusions

Anticipated negative social and psychological consequences of HIV mostly contribute to high HIV‐severity perceptions in MSM. A smaller subgroup of MSM does not perceive HIV as a serious disease, which is associated with increased sexual risk taking. Efforts to normalize living with HIV are essential but might present a challenge for HIV prevention as it could, for a minority of MSM, decrease the motivation to prevent HIV infection.
SARS‐CoV‐2 N‐antigenemia in critically ill adult COVID‐19 patients: Frequency and association with inflammatory and tissue‐damage biomarkers
Authors: Olea Beatriz , Albert Eliseo , Torres Ignacio , Gozalbo‐Rovira Roberto , Carbonell Nieves , Ferreres José , Poujois Sandrine , Costa Rosa , Colomina Javier , Rodríguez‐Díaz Jesús , Blasco María L. , Navarro David
Published: August 2021

The current study aimed at characterizing the dynamics of SARS‐CoV‐2 nucleocapsid (N) antigenemia in a cohort of critically ill adult COVID‐19 patients and assessing its potential association with plasma levels of biomarkers of clinical severity and mortality. Seventy‐three consecutive critically ill COVID‐19 patients (median age, 65 years) were recruited. Serial plasma (n = 340) specimens were collected. A lateral flow immunochromatography assay and reverse‐transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) were used for SARS‐CoV‐2 N protein detection and RNA quantitation and in plasma, respectively. Serum levels of inflammatory and tissue‐damage biomarkers in paired specimens were measured. SARS‐CoV‐RNA N‐antigenemia and viral RNAemia were documented in 40.1% and 35.6% of patients, respectively at a median of 9 days since symptoms onset. The level of agreement between the qualitative results returned by the N‐antigenemia assay and plasma RT‐PCR was moderate (k = 0.57; p < 0.0001). A trend towards higher SARS‐CoV‐2 RNA loads was seen in plasma specimens testing positive for N‐antigenemia assay than in those yielding negative results (p = 0.083). SARS‐CoV‐2 RNA load in tracheal aspirates was significantly higher (p < 0.001) in the presence of concomitant N‐antigenemia than in its absence. Significantly higher serum levels of ferritin, lactose dehydrogenase, C‐reactive protein, and D‐dimer were quantified in paired plasma SARS‐CoV‐2 N‐positive specimens than in those testing negative. Occurrence of SARS‐CoV‐2 N‐antigenemia was not associated with increased mortality in univariate logistic regression analysis (odds ratio, 1.29; 95% confidence interval, 0.49‐3.34; p = 0.59). In conclusion, SARS‐CoV‐2 N‐antigenemia detection is relatively common in ICU patients and appears to associate with increased serum levels of inflammation and tissue‐damage markers. Whether this virological parameter may behave as a biomarker of poor clinical outcome awaits further investigations.
Prevalence and clinical outcomes of pleural effusion in COVID‐19 patients: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Rathore Sawai Singh , Hussain Nabeel , Manju Ade Harrison , Wen Qingqing , Tousif Sohaib , Avendaño‐Capriles Camilo Andrés , Hernandez‐Woodbine Maria Jose , Rojas Gianpier Alonzo , Vatsavayi Priyanka , Tera Chenna Reddy , Ali Muhammad Adnan , Singh Romil , Saleemi Shayan , Patel Deep Manojkumar
Published: August 2021

Observational studies indicate that pleural effusion has an association with risk and the clinical prognosis of COVID‐19 disease; however, the available literature on this area is inconsistent. The objective of this systematic review and meta‐analysis is to evaluate the correlation between COVID‐19 disease and pleural effusion. A rigorous literature search was conducted using multiple databases. All eligible observational studies were included from around the globe. The pooled prevalence and associated 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated using the random effect model. Mantel–Haenszel odds ratios were produced to report overall effect size using random effect models for severity and mortality outcomes. Funnel plots, Egger regression tests, and Begg–Mazumdar's rank correlation test were used to appraise publication bias. Data from 23 studies including 6234 COVID‐19 patients was obtained. The overall prevalence of pleural effusion in COVID‐19 patients was 9.55% (95% CI,I2 = 92%). Our findings also indicated that the presence of pleural effusions associated with increased risk of severity of disease(OR = 5.08, 95% CI 3.14–8.22,I2 = 77.4%) and mortality due to illness(OR = 4.53, 95% CI 2.16–9.49,I2 = 66%) compared with patients without pleural effusion. Sensitivity analyses illustrated a similar effect size while decreasing the heterogeneity. No significant publication bias was evident in the meta‐analysis. The presence of pleural effusion can assist as a prognostic factor to evaluate the risk of worse outcomes in COVID‐19 patients hence, it is recommended that hospitalized COVID‐19 patients with pleural effusion should be managed on an early basis.
On solvability of differential equations with the Riesz fractional derivative
Authors: Fazli Hossein , Sun HongGuang , Nieto Juan J.
Published: August 2021

We consider the solvability of fractional differential equations involving the Riesz fractional derivative. Our approach basically relies on the reduction of the problem considered to the equivalent nonlinear mixed Volterra and Cauchy‐type singular integral equation and on the theory of fractional calculus. By establishing a compactness property of the Riemann–Liouville fractional integral operator on Lebesgue spaces and using the well‐known Krasnoselskii's fixed point theorem, an existence of at least one solution is gleaned. An example is finally included to show the applicability of the theory.
Optimal parameter estimation of overhead transmission line considering different bundle conductors with the uncertainty of load modeling
Authors: Shaikh Muhammad Suhail , Hua Changchun , Hassan Mannan , Raj Saurav , Jatoi Munsif Ali , Ansari Muhammad Mohsin
Published: August 2021

The overhead power line is used for the transmission and distribution of electrical power across long distances. It consists of multiple conductors mounted on poles or towers. The parameters of the overhead transmission lines (TLs) are dependent upon certain factors that are associated with bundle conductors. This research work uses a whale optimization algorithm (WOA) to calculate the overhead AC TL parameters. The proposed technique is applied to single‐phase and three‐phase AC TLs. It can be observed that within an AC TL, a change in one parameter will cause the corresponding variation in other parameters. This work has determined capacitance and inductance per unit length for three‐phase using proposed WOA algorithms at different bundle conductor arrangements. However, the study of load modeling for voltage stability is also presented.
Evaluation of biocompatibility of synthesized low molecular weight PLGA copolymers using zinc L‐proline through green route for biomedical application
Authors: Giram Prabhanjan S. , Garnaik Baijayantimala
Published: August 2021

Poly(lactide‐co‐glycolide) (PLGA) copolymers were synthesized by ring opening polymerization in presence of zinc proline and stannous octoate in bulk through green route and were designated as PLGA‐1 and PLGA‐2 respectively. These copolymers were characterized using NMR, SEC, DSC, X‐ray and MALDI‐TOF analysis. For the first time, the low molecular weight of PLGA (~11,000 Da) was mainly targeted to explore acute oral toxicity in the presence of zinc L‐proline and stannous octoate. The haemolysis and cell viability assay were carried out for in‐vitro cytotoxicity assessment. Haemolysis assay of PLGA‐2 was confirmed and haemolytic potential exceeded limit of American society of testing of material standard. The cell viability study using fibroblast cell lines (NIH3T3), exhibited statistically significant difference in results between PLGA‐1 and PLGA‐2. The acute toxicity study was performed in Balb/c mice for biomarker, hematological and histopathological analysis. No mortality was observed during the entire observation period, and no macroscopic change of the organs was observed in PLGA‐1 treated group where PLGA‐2 treated group showed sign of toxicity. The results obtained from in‐vitro and in‐vivo studies suggested that PLGA‐2 was toxic whereas PLGA‐1 was nontoxic in nature. Therefore, PLGA‐1 can be regarded as biocompatible biomaterials for potential for drug delivery and biomedical application.
Hydrolytic nondegradable bioactive rosmarinic acid particles
Authors: Sahiner Mehtap
Published: August 2021

Rosmarinic acid (RS) is as the nonflavonoid polyphenols in the phenolic acid subgroup was cross‐linked with sodium trimetaphosphate (STMP) to obtain (p[RS‐co‐STMP]) particles with the size distribution of 2.992 ± 659 nm. The zeta potential values of p(RS‐co‐STMP) particles were measured between pH 2–10, and the isoelectric point was determined as pH 2.66. Fe(II) chelating capability test was done for RS and p(RS‐co‐STMP). At 800 μmol/ml concentrations, p(RS‐co‐STMP) particles chelated 95.06 ± 5.18% Fe(II), while RS molecule did not chelate Fe(II), whereas STMP chelated only 41.8 ± 5.9% Fe(II). The effects of RS and p(RS‐co‐STMP) particles on α‐glucosidase enzyme activity were investigated and were found to inhibit the α‐glucosidase enzyme by 55.7% and 89.6%, respectively. Furthermore, p(RS‐co‐STMP) particles were modified with polyethyleneimine as m‐p(RS‐co‐STMP) to improve antimicrobial properties and found effective against both Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus bacteria. The interaction of fibrinogen with RS, p(RS‐co‐STMP) and m‐p(RS‐co‐STMP) were studied via the change in intensity of corresponding fluorescence spectra. It was found that p(RS‐co‐STMP) particles interacted lesser with fibrinogen than RS and changed the fluorescence property of fibrinogen protein slightly. On the other hand, m‐p(RS‐co‐STMP) particles did not change the fluorescence intensity of fibrinogen suggesting no influence on the blood clotting.
Theoretical investigations on mechanisms and kinetics of methylketene with H reaction in the atmosphere
Authors: Du Huaming , Sun Yuxi , Li Huirong , Wang Zhiguo , Zhang Yunju , Liu Yongguo , Zhao Meilian
Published: August 2021

Detailed oxidation course of H‐initiated degradation of CH3CHCO has been researched taking advantage of quantum chemical methods. Geometrical optimizations of reactants, intermediates, transition states, and products were operated at the B3LYP/6‐31++G(d,p) level. Single‐point energy computations were implemented at the CCSD(T)/cc‐pVTZ//B3LYP/6‐311++G(d,p) level. The results state clearly that the H association was more energetically beneficial than the abstraction of H, and the dominant pathway is generation of P1 (CH3CH2 + CO). Rate constants of H association reactions are computed by making use of Rice–Ramsperger–Kassel–Marcus (RRKM) program at 200–3000 K. Specifically, the total rate constant of H association reactions is 6.47 × 10−13 cm3 molecule−1 s−1 at 298 K, which is consistent with the experimental results (6.58 × 10−13 cm3 molecule−1 s−1). This research offers a thorough comprehending of the reaction mechanism involved in H‐initiated atmospheric degradation of CH3CHCO and might act as a relevant supplemental reference criteria for experimental research.
Etching characteristics of hydrogenated amorphous carbon with different sp2/sp3 hybridization ratios in CF4/O2 plasmas
Authors: Li Jie , Kim Sun J. , Han Seunghun , Kim Yongjae , Chae Heeyeop
Published: August 2021

Amorphous carbon is used as a hard mask for dielectric etching with a high aspect ratio in the fabrication processes of semiconductor devices. The dependence of the etching characteristics of hydrogenated amorphous carbon (a‐C:H) films on the sp2/sp3 hybridization ratios was studied for CF4/O2 plasma mixtures. The etch rate of sp3‐rich a‐C:H is 33.7 times higher than that of sp2‐rich a‐C:H in a plasma comprising 50% CF4 and 50% O2. The etch rate of the sp2‐rich a‐C:H exhibits a linear correlation with the ion density of CF4/O2 plasma, whereas that of the sp3‐rich a‐C:H exhibits a second‐order exponential correlation with O radical density. A combined etch rate model was suggested to explain the etch rates of a‐C:H. Ion‐enhanced etching is identified as the dominant etching mechanism for the sp2‐rich a‐C:H, whereas spontaneous chemical etching is the main reaction mechanism for the sp3‐rich a‐C:H in CF4/O2 plasmas.
Multilevel Switching in Phase‐Change Photonic Memory Devices
Authors: Arjunan Mozhikunnam Sreekrishnan , Durai Suresh , Manivannan Anbarasu
Published: August 2021

Multilevel storage in chalcogenide‐based phase‐change materials is one of the desired characteristics to design neuromorphic and in‐memory computing applications. However, precisely controlling the crystalline and amorphous fraction to achieve reliable multilevel states is one of the key challenges in multilevel switching. Herein, multilevel switching is focused on the aspect of optical domain, where it enjoys the benefits of higher bandwidth with low delay connectivity suitable for non‐von Neumann architecture. The essential requirements for multilevel optical switching are discussed in terms of programming techniques, novel device structures, and emerging materials for its better optimization. Furthermore, the impact of nature of crystallization mechanism on the multilevel switching for different families of phase‐change materials is reviewed. In addition, the multilevel switching for neuromorphic engineering and in‐memory computation based on the integrated photonic memory devices are assessed. Finally, several challenges and different strategies to improve the performance of multilevel switching in phase‐change materials are discussed and thereby signify its importance for the design of future on‐chip phase‐change photonic memory devices.
Formative assessment and feedback for learning in higher education: A systematic review
Authors: Morris Rebecca , Perry Thomas , Wardle Lindsey
Published: August 2021

Feedback is an integral part of education and there is a substantial body of trials exploring and confirming its effect on learning. This evidence base comes mostly from studies of compulsory school age children; there is very little evidence to support effective feedback practice at higher education, beyond the frameworks and strategies advocated by those claiming expertise in the area. This systematic review aims to address this gap. We review causal evidence from trials of feedback and formative assessment in higher education. Although the evidence base is currently limited, our results suggest that low stakes‐quizzing is a particularly powerful approach and that there are benefits for forms of peer and tutor feedback, although these depend on implementation factors. There was mixed evidence for praise, grading and technology‐based feedback. We organise our findings into several evidence‐grounded categories and discuss the next steps for the field and evidence‐informed feedback practice in universities.

Context and implications

Rationale for this study

To gain a better understanding of effective formative assessment and feedback approaches in higher education (HE). To promote a more evidence‐informed approach to teaching and learning in universities.

Why the new findings matter

The findings highlight a small number of promising strategies for formative assessment and feedback in HE. They also draw attention to a lack of (quality) evidence in this area overall.

Implications for policy‐makers and practitioners

Universities and their regulators/funders should be encouraging and supporting more, high‐quality research in this important area. Researchers in the field also need to look to developing more ambitious, higher‐quality studies which are likely to provide robust, causal conclusions about academic effectiveness (or other outcomes). Those involved in teaching and learning in university should use the findings to inform evidence‐informed approaches to formative assessment and feedback and to challenge approaches which do not appear to have foundations in strong evidence. Students could be made more aware of teaching and learning approaches that are likely to support their academic progress.
Tangent barrier Lyapunov function‐based constrained control of flexible manipulator system with actuator failure
Authors: Xu Fangyuan , Tang Li , Liu Yan‐Jun
Published: August 2021

This article puts forward an adaptive neural network fault‐tolerant control scheme under the state constraints for the flexible manipulator system with uncertain terms. The dynamic model of the system is described by partial differential equations. The tangent barrier Lyapunov functions are chosen in the design process for the sake of ensuring that all states in the system satisfy the constrained conditions. The uncertainties resulted from load mass, hub inertia, and bending stiffness in the system are approximated by using the universal approximation property of neural networks. The adaptive method is used to counteract the influence of joint motor actuator failure. At the same time, combining with the backstepping design framework to design effective controllers to assure that all signals in the closed‐loop system are bounded. Lyapunov stability analysis method is used to prove the stability of the system. Finally, the simulation results prove the availability of the raised control method.