bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prognostic Relevance of C-Reactive Protein in Short Term Adverse Outcome in Patients with Acute Ischaemic Stroke
Authors: Singh Subhasish , Pradhan Rashmita
Published: January 2022

Introduction: Elevated C-Reactive Protein (CRP) is a predictive marker for future cardiovascular events in ischaemic stroke patients but the timing of CRP evaluation in relation to the onset of the qualifying event has not been determined. Aim: To study the predictive accuracy of CRP in relation to adverse outcome of patients with acute ischaemic stroke. Materials and Methods: This prospective single centre, observational study was conducted on 62 cases of acute ischaemic stroke admitted to the Department of Medicine, SCB Medical College and Hospital, Cuttack, Odisha, India. CRP was determined quantitatively in all the patients of ischaemic stroke both at the time of admission and discharge. The CRP value was correlated with infarct size (Computed Tomography (CT) scan), mortality, morbidity (disability i.e., Barthel Index (BI), Canadian Neurologic Stroke Scale (CNSS) and vascular events). The end points were death or any new non fatal vascular events (recurrent stroke, unstable angina, myocardial infarction) recorded during six months of follow-up period. Results: CRP at admission correlates with the occurrence of fatal events only but CRP at discharge correlates with occurrence of both fatal and non fatal events. On follow-up occurrence of events correlates more strongly with CRP at admission. Out of total 14 non fatal events, maximum was restroke i.e., 7 (50%) which occurs in high CRP group. BI (degree of disability), both on admission and at six months strongly correlated with CRP at discharge (p-value=0.008 and 0.001 respectively). Conclusion: The severity of stroke and degree of disability was highest in high CRP group. The CRP at discharge was a better predictor of future outcome in terms of fatal and non fatal events than CRP at admission.
Effect of Different Extraction Methods on the Physicochemical Characteristics of Tetracarpidium Conophorum Müll. Arg. Hutch. and Dalz. Almonds Oil
Authors: Ghomdim Horliane Nzali , Kenfack Mezajoug Laurette Blandine , Ngangoum Eric Serge , Djiazet Stève , Tchiegang Clergé
Published: January 2022

Tetracarpidum conophorum nut is an oil seed found abundantly in the equatorial forest of Central Africa. The present study was conducted to evaluate the yield and the physicochemical composition oils from T. conophorum kernels extracted by cold and hot pressing. The experiments were carried out with mechanical screw press (type – Komet D85-1G) with a nozzle diameter of 8 mm. The extraction method had an influence on oil yield, with a greater yield for hot pressing at 90 °C (68.86 ± 2.00%) compared to cold pressing at 30°C (64.65±3.82%). The refractive index and the density of oils were not significantly different with respect to the extraction methods. The iodine value varies from 146 for hexane extraction to 170 for cold extraction. For both oils, the acid and peroxide values were in line with Codex standards. The oil extracted with hot press method had higher carotenoid content (32.03 ± 1.86 µg/g). a-tocopherol was greater in the oil obtained through the cold process (16.2 ± 0.20 mg/100 g). The seed oils contained substantial amounts of polyunsaturated fatty acids, including precisely linolenic acid (68% of total fatty acids) and linoleic acid (11% of total fatty acids). Based on its characteristics, oils obtained through cold press extraction was of better quality with respect to preservation of bioactive components. T. conophorum oil may have interesting abilities in nutrition, pharmacology and management of metabolic diseases.
Relevance of Water Recirculating System in Modern Aquaculture
Authors: Ed-Idoko J. O.
Published: January 2022

The review of water recirculation in aquaculture practice presents the reality and benefits of a developed system for effective water re-use with optimum water quality, for intensive fish production. This advanced mechanism of adequate water re-use proves its relevance as it provides for intensive fish production, conservation of available water, conservation of available space, ease in site location, flexibility to locate production facilities near large markets, quick and effective disease control, complete and convenient harvesting, species and harvest diversity especially where available water for culture purpose is limited (considering how water intensive aquaculture is), and salvaging endangered species. The practice of recirculating aquaculture through Recirculating Aquaculture systems needs basic orientation for fish farmers especially in developing aquaculture practice areas, since it can be carried out at different intensities. Recirculating Aquaculture System is hence an optional technology for farming aquatic organisms that should be encouraged.
Toxic clozapine level as first indication of severe, acute infection
Authors: Davis Erica A. K. , Hightower Tyler , Cinnamon Katherine Ann
Published: January 2022

Background

Clozapine levels can be influenced by many factors, including pharmacogenomic variability, pharmacokinetic drug interactions, and infection/inflammation. The concentration-to-dose ratio (C/D), a measure of a medication's rate of metabolism and clearance, may increase during an acute infection due to decreased medication metabolism and clearance.

Case Report

A 56-year-old White man was restarted on clozapine and titrated up to 350 mg/d with therapeutic steady-state levels (C/D 1.11) on hospital day (HD) 69. At this time, he was also being treated for COPD exacerbation. For the next month, he continued to complain of cough, but vital signs and chest x-ray remained normal. Labs were unremarkable except for occasional leukocytosis that would resolve on repeat evaluation. A routine clozapine level drawn on HD 104, resulted on day 108 and showed clozapine toxicity with C/D 4.05, although the patient was asymptomatic. After receipt of labs on day 109, showing elevated WBC count, he was immediately sent to the emergency room where he was admitted for treatment of pneumonia. On return to the state hospital, the patient was continued on 100 mg clozapine and titrated to 200 mg/d based on low drug levels. He continued to do well on 200 mg/d clozapine with C/D averaging 1.13 (range, 0.75-1.52).

Discussion

Acute infection and illness can lead to significantly increased clozapine levels and toxicity, even if symptoms of toxicity are minimal or absent. This appears to be the first report of a toxic level being the first indication of severe medical illness.
Impact on hospital-wide antipsychotic prescribing practices through physician peer comparison letters
Authors: Davis Erica A. K.
Published: January 2022

Peer comparison is a behavioral strategy that provides feedback to individuals on how they compare with others. It is used to improve health care quality, reduce inappropriate prescribing, and improve physician performance. There is very little data on peer comparison and the impact on system-wide prescribing practices, particularly with antipsychotics. To that end, the Maryland statewide pharmacy and therapeutics committee reviews hospital-level antipsychotic data for 5 facilities on a quarterly basis, including high doses and polypharmacy. One facility, Springfield Hospital Center, consistently stood out in 2016 as having higher rates of high doses of haloperidol, olanzapine, and quetiapine as well as patients receiving 3 or more antipsychotics. The pharmacist began to send out individual letters to the psychiatrists detailing their prescribing habits in these areas compared with other psychiatrists and the other state facilities. Over the course of 4 years, the percentage of patients on high doses of 3 antipsychotics substantially decreased. The percentage of patients on polypharmacy in the facility decreased, but not at the same rate as the other hospitals, leaving the facility even higher than the state average at the end of the 4-year period. Pharmacist-initiated physician peer comparison letters were associated with a considerable decrease in the prevalence of high-dose olanzapine, haloperidol, and quetiapine but did not appear to impact antipsychotic polypharmacy. This type of communication may be beneficial for stimulating system-wide changes in prescribing practices for high doses of antipsychotics; however, more individualized interventions are likely needed to reduce antipsychotic polypharmacy.
Chemistry and Nanotechnology‐Oriented Strategies toward Nanocellulose for Human Water Treatment
Authors: Zha Ruhua , Shi Tuo , He Liu , Zhang Min
Published: January 2022

There is an emerging quest for sustainable materials with good mechanical properties and economic production, while still being functionalizable. Nanocellulose stands out as a promising renewable and biocompatible nanomaterial owing to its natural abundance, and unique architectural properties. Here the current state‐of‐the‐art of the nanocellulose‐oriented self‐assembly and advanced environmental remediation is reviewed. Various construction technologies are described in detail, to present new opportunities and approaches for the application of chemistry and nanotechnology to enhance the efficiency and affordability of water treatment and wastewater reuse. Finally, several challenges and issues that need further exploration in the future are highlighted.
Releasing the Bubbles: Nanotopographical Electrocatalyst Design for Efficient Photoelectrochemical Hydrogen Production in Microgravity Environment
Authors: Akay Ömer , Poon Jeffrey , Robertson Craig , Abdi Fatwa Firdaus , Cuenya Beatriz Roldan , Giersig Michael , Brinkert Katharina
Published: January 2022

Photoelectrochemical devices integrate the processes of light absorption, charge separation, and catalysis for chemical synthesis. The monolithic design is interesting for space applications, where weight and volume constraints predominate. Hindered gas bubble desorption and the lack of macroconvection processes in reduced gravitation, however, limit its application in space. Physico‐chemical modifications of the electrode surface are required to induce gas bubble desorption and ensure continuous device operation. A detailed investigation of the electrocatalyst nanostructure design for light‐assisted hydrogen production in microgravity environment is described. p‐InP coated with a rhodium (Rh) electrocatalyst layer fabricated by shadow nanosphere lithography is used as a model device. Rh is deposited via physical vapor deposition (PVD) or photoelectrodeposition through a mask of polystyrene (PS) particles. It is observed that the PS sphere size and electrocatalyst deposition technique alter the electrode surface wettability significantly, controlling hydrogen gas bubble detachment and photocurrent–voltage characteristics. The highest, most stable current density of 37.8 mA cm−2 is achieved by depositing Rh via PVD through 784 nm sized PS particles. The increased hydrophilicity of the photoelectrode results in small gas bubble contact angles and weak frictional forces at the solid–gas interface which cause enhanced gas bubble detachment and enhanced device efficiency.
Visible‐Light‐Driven and Singlet Oxygen‐Mediated Synthesis of Biologically Relevant 2‐Hydroxyphenylated‐α‐Ketoamides Through Decarboxylative Amidation of 4‐Hydroxycoumarins
Authors: Brahmachari Goutam , Karmakar Indrajit
Published: January 2022

A new synthetic strategy for accessing a diverse series of 2‐hydroxyphenylated α‐ketoamides has been achieved based on visible light (white LED/direct sunlight)‐driven photocatalytic decarboxylative amidation of 4‐hydroxycoumarins. Advantages of this new protocol include mild and energy‐efficient reaction conditions, the use of dioxygen as a reactant, and avoidance of metal catalysts. In addition, this method offers a pathway to install a biologically potent hydroxy group at C‐2 position of the phenyl ring of α‐ketoamide skeleton.
Iron‐Catalyzed Ring‐Opening/Allylation of Cycloalkyl Hydroperoxides with Allylic Sulfones
Authors: Wang Ming‐Hua , Tao Jing‐Qi , Yang Fan , Xin Hong , Gao Shu‐Xin , Guo Li‐Na , Gao Pin
Published: January 2022

An efficient iron‐catalyzed allylation of cycloalkyl hydroperoxides with allylic sulfones via C−C bond cleavage is presented. This protocol provides an efficient approach to a wide range of distally allylated ketones with good functional group tolerance and high regioselectivity under redox‐neutral conditions. Preliminary mechanistic study implies a radical process might be involved in this reaction.
A modest proposal for a new way forward for clinical research: Involve insurance companies
Authors: Clark James H. , Pinto Jayant M. , Naclerio Robert M.
Published: January 2022

Is it time for medical insurance companies to organize and fund clinical research that evaluates the role of new treatments (drugs or device‐based therapies) in the context of existing clinical paradigms for common diseases?
Polarization dependence of the resonant two‐photon ionization spectra of jet‐cooled (1R,2R)‐(−)‐pseudoephedrine
Authors: Jeong Changseop , Mishra Kamal K. , Yun Jiyeon , Heo Jiyoung , Kim Nam Joon
Published: January 2022

The polarization dependence of the resonant two‐photon ionization (R2PI) spectra of jet‐cooled (1R,2R)‐(−)‐pseudoephedrine was investigated near the origin bands of three conformers. To obtain the difference R2PI spectra of the origin bands, R2PI signals produced by circularly polarized light (CP) were subtracted from those produced by linearly polarized light (LP), which revealed positive values for the P and R branches of the origin bands and negative values for the Q branch. To understand the different polarization behaviors of the P, Q, and R branches, expressions were derived to predict the transition probabilities of symmetric top molecules in a parallel transition. The transition probabilities varied depending on the direction of the total angular momentum J with respect to the light propagation vector. The different polarization behaviors of the rotational branches may arise from the differences in the angular distributions of the J vectors that are preferentially excited by LP and CP.
Epidural unilateral stimulation with “adaptive stim” option in treatment of type II CRPS
Authors: Simonyan Armen Samvelovich , Tyurnikov Vladimir Mikhaylovich , Simonyan Anna Dmitrievna , Gushcha Artem Olegovich
Published: January 2022

CRPS is a type of severe pain syndrome and can be triggered by previous surgery or trauma. CRPS involves vasomotor changes such as changes in color and temperature of the skin, edema, increased sensitivity to touch, and a limited range of movement. Depending on the presence of nerve damage, CRPS is divided into two types. CRPS type II is associated with a confirmed peripheral nerve injury, while CRPS type I is not associated with an apparent peripheral nerve injury. Despite the ongoing therapy, sometimes, patients still have persistent, burning pain. Intractable CRPS that fail more conservative treatments may undergo neuromodulation. We want to present to your attention a case report of the successful treatment of a patient with CRPS type II using epidural unilateral stimulation. The 44‐year‐old woman came to us with complaints of burning pain and numbness of 1–3 fingers of the right hand, the lateral surface of the right wrist, and lower quarter of the forearm, and shooting pain in the projection of the right median nerve from the shoulder to the wrist. A clinical diagnosis was made—CRPS type II. During the stimulation trial, the most effective pain relief was obtained when the electrode was located in the right side of epidural space at the C4‐Th1 level. The implantation of a pulse generator was performed, and the final selection of the stimulation parameters was carried out (Pulse width: 60 ms, Rate: 210 Hz, and Amplitude: 0.9–1.6 V). The severity of pain syndrome was measured using validated scales in the preoperative period (VAS: 8–9, Pain Detect: 22, NTSS‐9: 4.62, and DN4: 8), in the early postoperative period (VAS: 0–1, Pain Detect: 6, NTSS −9: 0.66, and DN4: 1), and after 12 months (VAS: 0–2, Pain Detect: 6, NTSS‐9: 0.99, and DN4: 1). Observation during 12 months showed that a stable analgesic effect of neurostimulation was achieved using standard neuromodulation regimens and the adaptive stim option. Unilateral stimulation is an effective type of SCS in the treatment of pain syndromes. adaptive stim is usually not applicable for lead implantation at the cervical level. Nevertheless, the rational use of stimulation at threshold values allowed our patient to use adaptive stim in a non‐standard situation.
Copper Deposition on Au(111) in a Deep Eutectic Solvent: An In Situ STM Study**
Authors: Tan Zhuo , Liu Shuai , Wu Jiedu , Nan Ziang , Yang Fangzu , Zhan Dongping , Yan Jiawei , Mao Bingwei
Published: January 2022

Electrolyte composition can have significant influences on metal deposition. In this work we employ in‐situ scanning tunneling microscope (STM), together with electrochemical methods to investigate Cu deposition on Au (111) in ethaline containing CuCl2. Cyclic voltammograms in the Cu overpotential deposition regime are dominated by a rapidly rising cathodic current, accompanied by a preceding shoulder. Instantaneous nucleation and three‐dimensional growth are discerned for the Cu deposition at larger overpotential. In‐situ STM reveals the shoulder process is associated with the formation of monoatomic‐height clusters. Meanwhile, morphology evolutions of Cu nuclei along with time and potential are followed, and layered hexagonal and hexagon fortress shaped Cu nuclei and their growth are directly observed. Furthermore, atomic‐resolution imaging elucidates an ordered incommensurate (6×√79) adsorption structure on the surface of a Cu nucleus. Our observations are helpful in gaining deeper insights into the effect of deep eutectic solvents (DES) on Cu deposition at microscopic level.
Regulation of hydrogen evolution performance of titanium oxide–carbon composites at high current density with a Ti–O hybrid orbital
Authors: Liu Meichen , Lei Zhiping , Ke Qingping , Cui Peixin , Wang Jiancheng , Yan Jingchong , Li Zhanku , Shui Hengfu , Ren Shibiao , Wang Zhicai , Kong Ying , Kang Shigang
Published: January 2022

Rational design and controllable synthesis of practical electrodes with high stability and activity at high current density for a hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) are critical for renewable and sustainable energy conversion. However, high‐performance TiO2‐based electrocatalysts for HER are quite limited, and the catalytic active centers still remain elusive. Herein, a simple strategy is demonstrated for the synthesis of TiO2–carbon composite (TiO2/C) with high HER performance and stability. The remarkable HER performance of TiO2/C can be ascribed to the doping of carbon atoms, which leads to stronger hybridization of Ti 3d and O 2p orbitals, thus substantially improving the electrocatalytic efficiency. This study elucidates that the hydrogen evolution activity of oxide electrocatalysts can be largely improved by regulating their electronic structures by doping carbon atoms and also provides an effective strategy for designing heterostructured electrocatalysts with high catalytic activity and stability at high current density for HER.
Influence of CO2‐Rich Syngas on the Selectivity to C10–C14 in a Coupled Fischer‐Tropsch/Hydrocracking Process
Authors: Stadler Tabea J. , Bertin‐Mente Barbara , Dittmeyer Roland , Brübach Lucas T. , Böltken Tim , Pfeifer Peter
Published: January 2022

Synthesis gas (syngas) used for the production of synthetic fuels may contain significant amounts of CO2, depending on its source. For Fischer‐Tropsch synthesis on cobalt, CO2 can be considered as inert diluent. However, in the specific case of a coupled Fischer‐Tropsch‐hydrocracking (FT‐HC) process, CO2 could interact with the catalyst in the HC step. In this experimental study, HC product distributions obtained for FT‐syngas compositions with and without CO2 and N2 are presented. The selected feed gas compositions result from an advanced syngas production route via plasma splitting of CO2. Main target product was kerosene, here being defined as C10–C14. It was found that the CO2 presence is negligible with regard to adsorption or reaction on the HC catalyst. Further insights into possible impacts of CO2 could be obtained from the analysis of alcohols in the aqueous phase.
Polyethylenimine Functionalized Ultrasmall Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles for siRNA Delivery
Authors: Chang Qing , Liu Chenghao , Xie Zhiquan , Shu Qingfeng , Xie Yijun , Su Qianqian , Deng Xiaoyong
Published: January 2022

Small interfering RNA (siRNA) for gene therapy has attracted great attention. However, due to easy degradation and inaccessibility to the cells, the gene silencing efficiency is not always satisfactory. To overcome this hurdle, developing an excellent nanocarrier to deliver siRNA into cancer cells is crucial. Fluorescent mesoporous silica nanoparticles are considered to be a superb nanocarrier for siRNA delivery systems because of its negligible toxicity and good biocompatibility. Herein, we developed an efficient fluorescent ultrasmall mesoporous silica nanocarrier for siRNA loading and delivery. The ultrasmall nanocarriers with polyethylenimine coating have a uniform size of about 10 nm. We find that the amino groups on polyethylenimine can protect siRNA from being degraded. Based on the fluorescence observation, we show that polyethylenimine‐coated mesoporous silica nanocarrier loaded with siRNA can be uptake by 293T cells. Importantly, we also prove that siRNA can be delivered into 293T cells by our nanocarrier and subsequently inhibit the expression of related genes. The study provides insights into the development of nonviral fluorescence nanocarriers for siRNA delivery, which have important implications for targeted cancer therapy.
Is set‐shifting a risk factor for anorexia nervosa or a broader range of disordered eating?
Authors: Field Alison E.
Published: January 2022

Steegers et al. using data from the Generation R cohort study examined whether set‐shifting difficulties at age 4 predict body dissatisfaction, weight status, and restrictive eating at age 9 as a way to examine whether cognitive rigidity was a risk factor for an eating disorder. The authors concluded that set‐shifting difficulties problems were predictive of features of anorexia nervosa. An alternative interpretation is that set shifting is predictive of large weight changes and eating behaviors more generally. It is not clear that set‐shifting predicts becoming underweight. Set shifting appears protective against larger weight gains. It is possible that set shifting is related to degree to which the children resist the myriad of cues to eat for reasons other than hunger. Whether this is due to a higher degree of awareness, genetics, or other reasons should be investigated. The results demonstrate that the cognitive process that relate to restrictive behaviors are complex. To better understand those relationships, it will be essential for the field to adopt a conceptualization of eating disorders that includes the earliest stages (disordered eating) of the full range of eating disorders.
Predator–prey interactions of terrestrial invertebrates are determined by predator body size and species identity
Authors: Miller‐ter Kuile Ana , Apigo Austen , Bui An , DiFiore Bartholomew , Forbes Elizabeth S. , Lee Michelle , Orr Devyn , Preston Daniel L. , Behm Rachel , Bogar Taylor , Childress Jasmine , Dirzo Rodolfo , Klope Maggie , Lafferty Kevin D. , McLaughlin John , Morse Marisa , Motta Carina , Park Kevin , Plummer Katherine , Weber David , Young Ronny , Young Hillary
Published: January 2022

Predator–prey interactions shape ecosystems and can help maintain biodiversity. However, for many of the earth's most biodiverse and abundant organisms, including terrestrial arthropods, these interactions are difficult or impossible to observe directly with traditional approaches. Based on previous theory, it is likely that predator–prey interactions for these organisms are shaped by a combination of predator traits, including body size and species‐specific hunting strategies. In this study, we combined diet DNA metabarcoding data of 173 individual invertebrate predators from nine species (a total of 305 individual predator–prey interactions) with an extensive community body size data set of a well‐described invertebrate community to explore how predator traits and identity shape interactions. We found that (1) mean size of prey families in the field usually scaled with predator size, with species‐specific variation to a general size‐scaling relationship (exceptions likely indicating scavenging or feeding on smaller life stages). We also found that (2) although predator hunting traits, including web and venom use, are thought to shape predator–prey interaction outcomes, predator identity more strongly influenced our indirect measure of the relative size of predators and prey (predator:prey size ratios) than either of these hunting traits. Our findings indicate that predator body size and species identity are important in shaping trophic interactions in invertebrate food webs and could help predict how anthropogenic biodiversity change will influence terrestrial invertebrates, the earth's most diverse animal taxonomic group.
Next steps in the footprint project: A feasibility study of installing solar panels on Bath Abbey
Authors: Smiles Matthew J. , Law Adam M. , Urwick Adam N. , Thomas Luke , Irvine Lewis A. D. , Pilot Matthew T. , Bowman Alan R. , Walker Alison B.
Published: January 2022

Reduction of the carbon footprint of historic buildings is urgent, given their exceptionally large energy demand. In this study, the performance and cost of a roof mounted photovoltaic system has been simulated for Bath Abbey, a grade I listed building, to test the financial viability of installing such a system. The electrical output of the panels was generated by the software package PVsyst with inputs such as the known dimensions of the Abbey, historical weather data, the orientation of the Abbey's roof, module azimuthal and tilt angles and shading by the spire and roof features. An important result is that even though the roof is not shadowed by other buildings, shading causes a 19% loss of peak power. This model was used to determine a recommended configuration comprising 164 solar panels, separated into two subsystems located on two parts of the roof, each with an inverter. Its predicted electrical output, 45 ± 2 MWh generated in the first year of operation, formed the basis of a cost–benefit analysis. This system will become profitable after 13.3 ± 0.6 years and provide a profit of £139,000 ± £12,000 over its 25‐year lifetime. Financial stress tests were performed for key assumptions to ensure that this result was true in all likely scenarios. This result shows that it is likely to make financial sense to install a photovoltaic system on a historic grade I listed building.
Anthropological genetic insights on Caribbean population history
Authors: Nieves‐Colón Maria A.
Published: January 2022

As the last American region settled by humans, yet the first to experience European colonization, the Caribbean islands have a complex history characterized by continuous migration, admixture, and demographic change. In the last 20 years, genetics research has transformed our understanding of Caribbean population history and revisited major debates in Caribbean anthropology, such as those surrounding the first peopling of the Antilles and the relationship between ancient Indigenous communities and present‐day islanders. Genetics studies have also contributed novel perspectives for understanding pivotal events in Caribbean post‐contact history such as European colonization, the Atlantic Slave Trade, and the Asian Indenture system. Here, I discuss the last 20 years of Caribbean genetics research and emphasize the importance of integrating genetics with interdisciplinary historic, archaeological, and anthropological approaches. Such interdisciplinary research is essential for investigating the dynamic history of the Caribbean and characterizing its impact on the biocultural diversity of present‐day Caribbean peoples.
An innovative electrically conductive biopolymer based on poly(β‐cyclodextrin) towards recognition of ascorbic acid in real sample: Utilization of biocompatible advanced materials in biomedical analysis
Authors: Behyar Milad Baghal , Kholafazad‐kordasht Houman , Hassanpour Soodabeh , Hasanzadeh Mohammad
Published: January 2022

In this study, a sensitive platform was designed for the electrocatalytical oxidation and recognition of ascorbic acid (AA) based on poly(β‐cyclodextrin) modified glassy carbon electrode (p(β‐CD‐GCE). Electropolymerization of β‐CD on the surface of GCE was performed on the potential range of −1 to 1.5 V. So, a novel biopolymer was prepared on the surface of GCE towards sensitive recognition of AA in human plasma samples. The developed platform has good sensitivity and accuracy for electrooxidation and detection of AA with lower limit of quantification (LLOQ) of 1 nM and linear range of 1 nM to 100 mM. Moreover, the designed electrochemical sensor was employed for the analysis of AA on human plasma samples with high sensitivity. Based on advantages of p(β‐CD) prepared by electropolymerization procedure (green, fast, homogeny, and efficient eletrocatalytical behaviour), this conductive biopolymer showed excellent analytical behaviour towards electrooxidation of AA. It is expected that the prepared polymeric interface is able to use in the analysis of biological species in clinical samples.
The impact of foreign competition on domestic firms' product quality: Evidence from a quasi‐natural experiment in the United States
Authors: Lam Hugo K. S. , Ding Li , Dong Zhaoyingzi
Published: January 2022

Researchers have investigated various factors that explain the variation in product quality across firms, but little is known about how competition from companies located in other countries may affect domestic firms' product quality. Although such foreign competition has received much attention from news media and the public, especially during the recent United States (US)–China trade war, its impact on product quality is still unclear. Our research answers this important question by conducting a quasi‐natural experiment in the US, in which significant reductions in import tariff rates represent an exogenous increase in foreign competition for US firms. Performing a difference‐in‐differences estimation of the difference in product quality changes between treatment and control firms, our research shows that increased foreign competition has a negative impact on the product quality of the US firms concerned. However, such a negative impact is less significant for firms with high levels of operational slack and R&D intensity. Firms pursuing product differentiation rather than cost leadership strategies are also less affected by foreign competition. Overall, our research demonstrates foreign competition's negative impact on product quality and highlights the crucial role that firms' operational resources and strategies play in mitigating the negative impact.
A novel single‐feed filtering dielectric resonator antenna using slotline‐loaded coupling structure
Authors: Wang Chuanyun , Zhang Yonghua , Han Zhiwen , Chen Guibin , Guan Xuehui , Ren Baoping
Published: January 2022

This paper proposes a novel single‐feed filtering dielectric resonator antenna (FDRA) using fusion design method and the microstrip‐slot coupled feeding structure. Two pairs of slotlines are elaborately designed and perpendicularly loaded on the coupling slot to provide two radiation nulls at the edges of the passband. Therefore, a compact DRA with a quasi‐elliptic function bandpass response is constructed without extra filter circuits. Furthermore, two radiation nulls can be individually controlled through changing the length of the corresponding slotlines. For proving the effectiveness of the design, a prototype FDRA operation at 3.45 GHz is fabricated and measured. The measured results show that the peak realized gain is 5.84 dBi and the ‐10dB impedance bandwidth is 10.29% (3.29 ‐ 3.65 GHz). The proposed FDRA not only has good performance, but also has simple design.
Deep neural networks for magnetic resonance elastography acceleration in thermal‐ablation monitoring
Authors: Shan Xiang , Yang Jinying , Xu Peng , Hu Liangliang , Ge Haitao
Published: January 2022

Purpose

To develop a deep neural network for accelerating magnetic resonance elastography (MRE) acquisition, to validate the ability to generate reliable MRE results with the down‐sampled k‐space data, and to demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed method in monitoring the stiffness changes during thermal ablation in a phantom study.

Materials and methods

MRE scans were performed with 60 Hz excitation on porcine ex‐vivo liver gel phantoms in a 0.36T MRI scanner to generate the training dataset. The acquisition protocol was based on a spin‐echo MRE pulse sequence with tailored motion‐sensitive gradients to reduce echo time (TE). A U‐Net based deep neural network was developed and trained to interpolate the missing data from down‐sampled k‐space. We calculated the errors of 80 sets magnitude/phase images reconstructed from the zero‐filled, compressive sensing (CS) and deep learning (DL) method for comparison. The peak signal‐to‐noise rate (PSNR) and structural similarity index (SSIM) of the magnitude/phase images were also calculated for comparison. The stiffness changes were recorded before, during, and after ablation. The mean stiffness values over the region of interest (ROI) were compared between the elastograms reconstructed from the fully sampled k‐space and interpolated k‐space after thermal ablation.

Results

The mean absolute error (MAE), PSNR, and SSIM of the proposed DL approach were significantly better than the results from the zero‐filled method (p < 0.0001) and CS (p < 0.0001). The stiffness changes before and after thermal ablation assessed by the proposed approach (before: 7.7±1.1 kPa, after: 11.9±4.0 kPa, 4.2‐kPa increase) gave close agreement with the values calculated from the fully sampled data (before: 8.0±1.0 kPa, after: 12.6±4.2 kPa, 4.6‐kPa increase). In contrast, the stiffness changes computed from the zero‐filled method (before: 4.9±1.4 kPa, after: 5.6±2.8 kPa, 0.7‐kPa increase) were substantially underestimated.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated the capability of the proposed DL method for rapid MRE acquisition and provided a promising solution for monitoring the MRI‐guided thermal ablation.
Critical Thermal Maximum Values for Stream Fishes, Including Distinct Populations of Smallmouth Bass
Authors: Brewer Shannon K. , Mollenhauer Robert , Alexander Justin , Moore Desiree
Published: January 2022

Understanding the thermal tolerances of stream fishes, including sport fishes, is important for assessing thermal stressors that are common across the landscape. Our study objectives were to determine the thermal tolerances of 17 stream fishes (15 species and 2 genetically distinct populations of juvenile Smallmouth Bass Micropterus dolomieu: the Neosho subspecies M. dolomieu velox and the Ouachita strain M. sp. cf. dolomieu velox). Fish were collected from the field and acclimated to laboratory conditions at 20°C or 25°C, with dissolved oxygen maintained above 6 mg/L. We determined the critical thermal maximum (CTM) using an incomplete block design with 9–11 replications for each species. During trials, we increased the water temperature at a rate of 2°C per hour until fish experienced loss of equilibrium. The estimated CTM ranged from 32.43°C to 38.26°C among species. The CTM values differed significantly between taxonomic groups and species, including the genetically distinct populations of Smallmouth Bass. The Neosho subspecies of Smallmouth Bass had a significantly lower thermal tolerance than the Ouachita strain at both acclimation temperatures; however, the magnitude of the difference was about 0.5°C greater at the higher acclimation temperature. Closely related species, including the Bigeye Shiner Notropis boops and Kiamichi Shiner N. ortenburgeri, had significantly different thermal tolerances despite occupying similar riverine locations. Our results suggest that our perceptions of a species’ thermal tolerance based on that of closely related species or that of species using similar habitat may be incorrect. Moreover, the differences in thermal tolerances among populations may be an important consideration for conservation and management actions, such as stocking decisions. Laboratory data such as those provided in this study can be integrated with field data to better assess thermal responses of fishes in a changing environment.
MAKO robotic assisted total hip replacement (THR) for patients with fused hips
Authors: Zhao Xiang , Cai Xun‐Zi , Wang Wei , Wu Hao‐Bo , Wu Li‐Dong , Ye Zhao‐Ming , Yan Shi‐Gui
Published: January 2022

Background

Previous articles about MAKO robotic‐assisted total hip replacement (THR) were mainly in patients with comparatively normal anatomy.

Methods

From July 2020 to June 2021, we performed MAKO robotic‐assisted THR in three hip‐fused patients. We assessed the accuracy of prostheses implantation, collected clinical data, and discussed the value of this technique in this kind of patients.

Result

All three patients achieved good leg length and prostheses position. A patient got femoral artery injury during the surgery. Moreover, she developed a thrombus. All three patients got acceptable Visual Analogue Scale scores and function recovery 6 months later.

Conclusion

MAKO robotic‐assisted THR achieved excellent prosthesis position in hip fused patients. More cases are needed to confirm this advantage. The function recovery was acceptable. Caution should be paid to protect the surrounding abnormal arteries, especially in a limited surgical field.
Profile‐likelihood Bayesian model averaging for two‐sample summary data Mendelian randomization in the presence of horizontal pleiotropy
Authors: Shapland Chin Yang , Zhao Qingyuan , Bowden Jack
Published: January 2022

Two‐sample summary data Mendelian randomization is a popular method for assessing causality in epidemiology, by using genetic variants as instrumental variables. If genes exert pleiotropic effects on the outcome not entirely through the exposure of interest, this can lead to heterogeneous and (potentially) biased estimates of causal effect. We investigate the use of Bayesian model averaging to preferentially search the space of models with the highest posterior likelihood. We develop a Metropolis‐Hasting algorithm to perform the search using the recently developed MR‐RAPS as the basis for defining a posterior distribution that efficiently accounts for pleiotropic and weak instrument bias. We demonstrate how our general modeling approach can be extended from a standard one‐component causal model to a two‐component model, which allows a large proportion of SNPs to violate the InSIDE assumption. We use Monte Carlo simulations to illustrate our methods and compare it to several related approaches. We finish by applying our approach to investigate the causal role of cholesterol on the development age‐related macular degeneration.
Albumin Nanoparticles Loaded with Hemin as Peroxidase Mimics for Immunoassay**
Authors: Khramtsov Pavel , Bochkova Maria , Timganova Valeria , Kiselkov Dmitriy , Zamorina Svetlana , Rayev Mikhail
Published: January 2022

Contemporary immunoassays commonly used in clinical diagnostics mostly utilize enzymes, such as horseradish peroxidase, for signal generation. Numerous research is dedicated to the development of artificial peroxidase‐mimicking catalysts with lower cost, high activity, better operational stability, and tunable properties. Herein we synthesized hemin‐loaded bovine serum albumin (BSA) nanoparticles and applied them as catalytic labels (nanozymes) in colorimetric immunoassay of anti‐tetanus antibodies. Hemin is a key part of the peroxidase catalytic center, possessing peroxidase like‐activity. Albumin nanoparticles were loaded with multiple hemin molecules and decorated with Streptococcal protein G. Resulting nanozymes possessed good colloidal stability and allowed for antibody detection in blood serum. The sensitivity of antibody detection was sufficient for the assessment of post‐vaccination immunity.
Depolymerization of Poly(1,2‐propylene carbonate) via Ring Closing Depolymerization and Methanolysis
Authors: Alberti Christoph , Rijono Desiree , Wehrmeister Moritz , Cheung Even , Enthaler Stephan
Published: January 2022

The conversion of end‐of‐life plastics to useful chemicals can contribute to a resource‐conserving and environmental‐benign society. In this regard, we studied the depolymerization via methanolysis of poly(1,2‐propylene carbonate) using straightforward metal salts as precatalysts. In more detail, in the presence of catalytic amounts of Zn(OAc)2or NaOAc and methanol 1,2‐propylene carbonate (generated by ring closing depolymerization), 1,2‐propanediol and dimethyl carbonate (generated by methanolysis) were obtained as beneficial products. Importantly, the selectivity for ring closing depolymerization vs. methanolysis of the polycarbonate depends on various parameters. Moreover, the reaction time is of significance, because in the initial stage of the process the ring closing depolymerization is dominant, while in the further course the amount of the methanolysis products are increasing and the amount of 1,2‐propylene carbonate is decreasing, due to conversion by methanolysis. Furthermore, the depolymerization of poly(1,2‐propylene carbonate) was connected with a consecutive depolymerization of poly(oxymethylene), that means the depolymerization product 1,2‐propanediol acts as depolymerization reagent for poly(oxymethylene) to generate 4‐methyl‐1,3‐dioxolane as suitable compound.
Bioinspired Carbon Dots as an Effective Fluorescent Sensing Platform for Tetracycline Detection and Bioimaging
Authors: Gao Xu , Qin Jing , Liu Jingyi , Yang Zhen , Zhang Guoliang , Hou Juan
Published: January 2022

Bioinspired carbon dots (CDs) with excellent biocompatibility were prepared from egg white as precursors through a simple hydrothermal method at 200 °C for 4 hours. The obtained CDs exhibited bright blue fluorescence, excellent optical stability, and sensitive response to tetracycline. Under the optimized synthetic conditions, the fluorescence quantum yield is 17.6 %. The fluorescence intensity of CDs at 440 nm could be quenched linearly with the addition of tetracycline in the range of 0.1–200 μmol L−1 due to the internal filtering effect. The proposed detection platform has been applied in the determination of tetracycline in milk samples with good results. The limit of detection is 32.3 nmol L−1, and the spiked recoveries are in the range of 93–103 %. Additionally, the CDs could also be applied to cell imaging, implying good biocompatibility and low toxicity. As a type of green and effective multi‐functional fluorescence materials, the CDs have potential applications in biochemical sensing and biomedical imaging.
Learning from our students: Being student‐centered in an unstable world
Authors: Weng John , Gleason Michael C.
Published: January 2022

From the deaths of George Floyd and Breonna Taylor to the attack on Asian Americans in Georgia to the police shooting of Daunte Wright, the instances of traumatic events recently are too long to list, but the almost daily trauma is impacting our classrooms through the lived experiences of those who are a part of this living, dynamic system. Within this article we explore how we, as educators, have more responsibility than ever to acknowledge this trauma and work to support students bringing their whole selves to our classrooms.
Research Towards Key Issues of API Security
Authors: Sun Ronghua , Wang Qianxun , Guo Liang
Published: January 2022

With the mass application of virtualization, micro-services, and cloud-native technologies, the interaction between service entities through APIs has become a norm. Many platforms are still maintaining a large number of old APIs due to business needs. At the same time, many new APIs are gradually going online. Both of these statuses put forward higher requirements for API security. Focusing on old APIs’ security protection and other issues, this article starts from the process of asset discovery, vulnerability detection, and security auditing. Aiming at the problem of API asset discovery, this article summarizes the technical methods of automatically clustering unowned API assets using the characteristics of various commonly used APIs. Aiming at new API vulnerability detection, a security analysis method based on finite state machine is proposed. For the first time, the cross-network communication taint propagation based on dynamic taint analysis technology and system-level simulation technology is realized, enabling sensitive data flow tracing in API communication become feasible. We designed a flowbased API security audit system to improve automated API protection. Finally, We analyzed technical opportunities and challenges of API security in detail and prospected for API security research’s next direction and development trend.
A Multi-task Text Classification Model Based on Label Embedding Learning
Authors: Xu Yuemei , Fan Zuwei , Cao Han
Published: January 2022

Different text classification tasks have specific task features and the performance of text classification algorithm is highly affected by these task-specific features. It is crucial for text classification algorithms to extract task-specific features and thus improve the performance of text classification in different text classification tasks. The existing text classification algorithms use the attention-based neural network models to capture contextualized semantic features while ignores the task-specific features. In this paper, a text classification algorithm based on label-improved attention mechanism is proposed by integrating both contextualized semantic and task-specific features. Through label embedding to learn both word vector and modified-TF-IDF matrix, the task-specific features can be extracted and then attention weights are assigned to different words according to the extracted features, so as to improve the effectiveness of the attention-based neural network models on text classification. Experiments are carried on three text classification task data sets to verify the performance of the proposed method, including a six-category question classification data set, a two-category user comment data set, and a five-category sentiment data set. Results show that the proposed method has an average increase of 3.02% and 5.85% in F1 value compared with the existing LSTMAtt and SelfAtt models.
A Privacy-Preserving Medical Data Traceability System Based on Attribute-Based Encryption on Blockchain
Authors: Zhao Yujuan , Cui Baojiang , Xu Jie
Published: January 2022

With the continuous development of distributed technology, blockchain has been widely applied to solve practical problems in various fields. Its advantages such as decentralization and non-tamperability perfectly meet the needs of permanent query of traceability scene information, and can solve the trust problem of multi-party participation in various links. At the same time, as data security has received more and more attention. The privacy protection and permission control of “on-chain” data need to be resolved. Medical data records are very valuable and sensitive data. Reliable storage and credible traceability are of great significance to the health of patients and the long-term development of medical undertakings. To issue the above problems, here, we propose a secure medical data traceability system that combines data desensitization and attribute-based encryption algorithms to achieve the traceability capabilities and ensure the reliable storage of medical data records on blockchain. Data desensitization provides a certain degree of security for sensitive data involving personal information in medical data. The introduction of attribute encryption has solved the problem of unauthorized access to data. Finally, we analyzed the security of the solution and Verify the efficiency of the program.