bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relative controllability of nonlinear switched fractional systems
Authors: Luo Hui‐Ping , Liu Song , Zhao Xiao‐Wen , Huang Tao
Published: August 2023

This article investigates relative controllability of nonlinear switched fractional systems (SFSs). With the aid of Mittag‐Leffler functions and invariant subspace theory, two sufficient and necessary conditions for corresponding linear SFSs are first established. Then, piecewise continuous control functions and a novel nonlinear operator are constructed to overcome the difficulties arising from switching rules, nonlinearity, and fractional derivatives. Under different constraints on nonlinear functions, two controllability conditions depending on system parameters for nonlinear SFSs are proposed by applying Schauder's and Banach's fixed point theorems, respectively. The obtained criteria may well show the influence of coefficient matrices, fractional derivatives, and switching rules on relative controllability. In addition, our proposed method is also applicable for integer‐order switched systems. Finally, two simulated examples are worked out to verify the theoretical results.
Thou shalt be safe: Risk preferences in choice for sad others
Authors: Spassova Gerri , Palmeira Mauricio
Published: August 2023

This research takes the first step in exploring how the emotions of choice recipients influence the riskiness of decisions made for them by others. In particular, we focus on the role of sadness—an emotion that has been shown to prompt risk‐seeking in choices for self. Across five studies, in monetary and social decisions, participants prefer safer options for sad, relative to neutral‐affect others, even when the expected value of the safer option is significantly lower than that of the riskier option. The effect is driven by a desire to protect sad others from further loss or disappointment.
Investigation of biodegradability and cellular activity of PCL/PLA and PCL/PLLA electrospun webs for tissue engineering applications
Authors: Oztemur Janset , Ozdemir Suzan , Tezcan‐Unlu Havva , Cecener Gulsah , Sezgin Hande , Yalcin‐Enis Ipek
Published: August 2023

Biodegradability and cellular activity are key performance indicators that should be prioritized for tissue engineering applications. Biopolymer selection, determination of necessary structural properties, and their synergistic interactions play an active role in obtaining the expected biodegradability and biological activity from scaffolds. In this study, it is aimed to produce electrospun webs with improved biocompatibility by blending polycaprolactone (PCL) with polylactic acid (PLA) and poly‐l‐lactide (PLLA), and examine the effect of biopolymer selection and blend ratio on the biodegradability and cellular activity of surfaces. In this context, fibrous webs are produced from PCL/PLA and PCL/PLLA blends with a weight ratio of 80/20 and 50/50 and pure polymers of PCL, PLA, and PLLA by electrospinning method and subjected to morphological and biological analyses. The biodegradation tests are carried out hydrolytically while the cell viability and cell proliferation analyses are performed with adult human primary dermal fibroblasts and human umbilical endothelial cells (HUVECs). The results show that the fiber diameters of the fabricated webs ranged from 0.747 to 1.685 μm. At the end of the 5th month, it is observed that the biodegradation rates of the webs blended 50% with PLA and PLLA, in comparison to PCL ones, increase from 3.7% to 13.33% and 7.69%, respectively. On the other hand, cell culture results highlight that the addition of 20% PLA and PLLA improves the cellular activity of both cell types, but increased PLA or PLLA ratio in PCL webs has a negative effect as it makes the structure stiff and brittle.
Virtual reality as an immersive projective and autodriving advancement technique
Authors: Putra Pragea Geldoffy , Lee Michael S. W. , Kemper Joya A.
Published: August 2023

The COVID‐19 lockdown posed challenges for traditional qualitative researchers, as well as opportunities for innovative qualitative research. While online interviews and focus groups via video conferencing platforms were the most widely used methods, Zoom Fatigue also occurred, hampering some participants' experiences and eventually impacting data quality. Incorporating virtual reality (VR) was one possible solution. This study explores the experiences and involvement of family participants in a qualitative research study using VR during the COVID‐19 pandemic lockdown. The research aims to assess the impact of VR on data quantity and quality, as well as the depth of insights compared to traditional methods without VR. The study employs VR roleplay and autodriving methods to elicit family participant engagement. The findings suggest that the application of VR in autodriving improves data quality and quantity while also making the research process more enjoyable for participating parents and children. The results indicate that VR holds significant potential for advancing qualitative research methodology, especially for previously underrepresented groups such as children.
Closed Synthetic Cycle for Nickel‐Based Dihydrogen Formation
Authors: Hosseinmardi Soosan , Scheurer Andreas , Heinemann Frank W. , Marigo Nicola , Munz Dominik , Meyer Karsten
Published: August 2023

Dihydrogen evolution was observed in a two‐step protonation reaction starting from a Ni0 precursor with a tripodal N‐heterocyclic carbene (NHC) ligand. Upon the first protonation, a NiII monohydride complex was formed, which was isolated and fully characterized. Subsequent protonation yields H2 via a transient intermediate (INT) and an isolable NiII acetonitrile complex. The latter can be reduced to regenerate its Ni0 precursor. The mechanism of H2 formation was investigated by using a deuterated acid and scrutinized by 1H NMR spectroscopy and gas chromatography. Remarkably, the second protonation forms a rare nickel dihydrogen complex, which was detected and identified in solution and characterized by 1H NMR spectroscopy. DFT‐based computational analyses were employed to propose a reaction profile and a molecular structure of the Ni−H2 complex. Thus, a dihydrogen‐evolving, closed‐synthetic cycle is reported with a rare Ni−H2 species as a key intermediate.
TorS ‐ Reframing a rational for type 2 diabetes treatment
Authors: Bar‐Tana Jacob
Published: August 2023

The mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 syndrome (Tors), paradigm implies an exhaustive cohesive disease entity driven by a hyperactive mTORC1, and which includes obesity, type 2 diabetic hyperglycemia, diabetic dyslipidemia, diabetic cardiomyopathy, diabetic nephropathy, diabetic peripheral neuropathy, hypertension, atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease, some cancers, neurodegeneration, polycystic ovary syndrome, psoriasis and other. The TorS paradigm may account for the efficacy of standard‐of‐care treatments of type 2 diabetes (T2D) in alleviating the glycaemic and non‐glycaemic diseases of TorS in T2D and non‐T2D patients. The TorS paradigm may generate novel treatments for TorS diseases.
Exploration of orthorexia nervosa and diagnostic overlap with eating disorders, anorexia nervosa andobsessive‐compulsivedisorder
Authors: Cosh Suzanne M. , Olson Jemma , Tully Phillip J.
Published: August 2023

Objective

Orthorexia nervosa (ON) is characterized as obsessional healthy eating that results in malnutrition and/or psychosocial impairment. Yet, ON shares theoretical overlap with eating disorders (EDs), especially anorexia nervosa (AN), as well as obsessive‐compulsive disorder (OCD). This study aimed to further understand ON and its overlap with related disorders by assessing the ability of ON for detecting the presence/absence of threshold ED, AN, and OCD symptoms.

Method

An observational survey was completed by 197 participants recruited through eating disorder, dieting, and mental health support groups. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analyses determined the predictive ability of ON symptoms (assessed by Eating Habits Questionnaire [EHQ] orthorexia nervosa [OrNe] and healthy orthorexia [HeOr] subscales, and the Orthorexia Nervosa Inventory [ONI]) for detecting disordered eating symptoms (determined by Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire [EDE‐Q] global cut‐scores), probable AN (determined by EDE‐Q cut‐scores and body mass index [BMI] <18.5), and OCD symptoms and obsessional thinking (assessed by the Revised Obsessive‐Compulsive Inventory [OCI‐R]).

Results

Results showed both the ONI and EHQ OrNe measures are able to adequately predict ED symptoms and AN; however, both were poor to moderate at detecting OCD symptoms and obsessional thinking. Healthy orthorexia was poor to moderate at detecting outcomes.

Discussion

These results suggest that ON, as it is currently operationalized, may be more closely related to EDs than OCD, and that ON may represent a subtype of AN. Results also support healthy orthorexia as a distinct construct to ON. While results are limited by the lack of definitive ON diagnostic criteria, findings suggest that treatments developed for EDs might be most suited to ON.

Public Significance

ON has been proposed as a psychiatric disorder, and it shares theoretical overlap with several existing disorders. This study adopts a novel approach to assessing and exploring the overlap of ON with EDs, AN and OCD. Results suggest that ON shares more overlap with EDs and might best be understood as a subtype of EDs or AN.
Different patterns of introgression in a three species hybrid zone among European cave salamanders
Authors: Bruni Giacomo , Chiocchio Andrea , Nascetti Giuseppe , Cimmaruta Roberta
Published: August 2023

Hybrid zones occur where genetically distinct populations meet, mate and produce offspring with mixed ancestry. In Plethodontid salamanders, introgressive hybridization is a common phenomenon, where hybrids backcross with parental populations leading to the spread of new alleles into the parental genomes. Whereas many hybrid zones have been reported in American Plethodontid salamanders, only a single hybrid zone has been documented in European plethodontids so far, which is located at the Apuan Alps in the Italian Peninsula. Here, we describe a previously unreported hybrid zone in the Northern Apennines involving all the three Plethodontid salamander species inhabiting the Italian Peninsula. We found 21 new Speleomantes sites of occurrence, from a hitherto unexplored area located at the boundaries between three Speleomantes species ranges. Using mitochondrial (Cytb and ND2 genes) and nuclear markers (two diagnostic SNPs at the NCX1 gene), we revealed a three‐way contact zone where all the three mainland species hybridize: S. strinatii, S. ambrosii and S. italicus. We observed a strong mitonuclear discordance, with mitochondrial markers showing a conspicuous geographic pattern, while diagnostic nuclear SNPs coexisted in both the same populations and individuals, providing evidence of hybridization in many possible combinations. The introgression is asymmetric, with S. italicus mitogenome usually associated with S. a. ambrosii and, to a lesser extent, to S. strinatii nuclear alleles. This finding confirms that Plethodontid are a group of choice to investigate hybridization mechanisms and suggests that behavioural, genetic and ecological components may concur in determining the direction and extent of introgression.
Development of frequency measurement circuit for soil moisture content and electric conductivity measurement system with detection of soil transient response characteristics for on‐site measurement
Authors: Takimoto Sohei , Shigemasu Ryuki , Fujisono Motoki , Ota Satoshi , Futagawa Masato
Published: August 2023

In agricultural field, compact sensors that can measure both water content and electric conductivity are needed. Focusing on the fact that water content and conductivity depend on soil impedance, our group has been developing a new compact and noise‐resistant driving circuit that measured soil impedance by detecting transient characteristics of the voltage obtained by injecting current through the soil and converting it to frequency information. In order to realize agricultural field measurements with sensors using this new driving circuit, it had been necessary to miniaturize the part that detected the output from the driving circuit, but it hadn't been achieved in our previous work. In this research, a microcomputer‐based frequency counter was developed to downsize the system for on‐site measurement. In general, there are two methods of frequency measurement: direct counting and reciprocal. The direct‐counting method is suited for high‐frequency measurements, while the reciprocal method is suited for low‐frequency measurements. The developed frequency counter could measure with an error of 0.005% over the assumed frequency range by switching between those two measurement methods according to the measured frequency. Using this driving circuit and frequency counter, we measured the model soil and succeeded in capturing changes in water content as changes in impedance.
Efficient Solution Phase Synthesis of PPII Helix Mimicking Ena/VASP EVH1 Inhibitors from Proline‐Derived Modules (ProMs)
Authors: Albat Dominik , Chiha Slim , Dohmen Stephan , Engelhardt Pascal M. , Sebode Hanna , Soicke Arne , Barone Matthias , Müller Matthias , Kühne Ronald , Schmalz Hans‐Günther
Published: August 2023

In the search for efficient inhibitors for the enabled/vasodilator‐stimulated phosphoprotein homology 1 (EVH1) domain to reduce cell motility in metastatic cancer, we previously developed a toolkit of proline‐derived modules (ProMs), which mimic the PPII helix found in the natural −FPPPP− binding motif of EVH1. In this work, we describe the modular assembly of these ProM‐based pentapeptidic EVH1 ligands through liquid phase peptide synthesis. We initially used pentafluorophenyl (Pfp) active esters for amide bond formation and built up the growing peptide chain from the C‐ to the N‐terminus. Switching to HATU/DIPEA coupling conditions and changing the directionality of the synthesis from the N‐ to the C‐terminus afforded the target ligands with improved overall yields and purity. Employing a Fmoc‐protected (instead of the N‐acetylated) phenylalanine derivative as N‐terminal building block significantly reduced epimerization. In contrast to the originally used solid phase peptide synthesis (SPPS), the developed solution phase method allowed for a facile alteration of the C‐terminal ProM unit and the production of various pentapeptidic ligands in an efficient fashion even on a multigram scale.
A new method for single‐phase high resistance grounding fault protection in low resistance grounded distribution networks
Authors: Wang Gang , Wang Liyi
Published: August 2023

The neutral point of the distribution network is grounded with low resistance, which can quickly remove single‐phase grounding fault and effectively suppress overvoltage. However, the existing zero‐sequence overcurrent protection has a high setting value. In the case of large fault resistance and weak fault current, the existing protection methods may refuse to operate. Based on the waveform characteristics of the zero‐sequence current of each outgoing line in the distribution network, this article proposes a new method for single‐phase high resistance grounding fault protection in low resistance grounded distribution network, which combines cosine distance and improved K‐means algorithm. First, the cosine distance between zero‐sequence current of every two outgoing lines is obtained, and the cosine distance matrix used to describe the fault characteristics is constructed. Then the improved K‐means algorithm is used to cluster the row vectors of the cosine distance matrix to obtain the convergent cluster center and cluster label, so that the fault line can be determined. This protection method does not need to set the threshold value manually, and has strong ability to handle large fault resistance. It can effectively deal with noise interference and intermittent arc grounding fault, and still has good adaptability in scenarios such as change of fault initial phase angle, change of fault location, access of distributed generations and occurrence of two outgoing lines in phase to grounding fault. Finally, a model is built, and the effectiveness of the proposed method is proved by the simulation of grounding fault.
Unlocking the potential of metal halide perovskite thermoelectrics through electrical doping: A critical review
Authors: Kim Yongjin , Choi Hyeonmin , Lee Jonghoon , Jung Young‐Kwang , Jung Joonha , Cho Jaeyoon , Lee Takhee , Kang Keehoon
Published: August 2023

Over the past decade, metal halide perovskites (MHPs) have received great attention, triggered by the tremendous success of their record‐breaking power conversion efficiency values in solar cells. Recently, there have been significant interests in fully utilizing their unique properties by exploring other device applications including thermoelectrics, which is promising due to their ultralow thermal conductivity and high mobility relative to their competitors among solution‐processable materials. However, the performance of MHP thermoelectrics reported so far falls significantly short of theoretical predictions, as the doping levels achieved to date are typically below the optimum values for maximizing the thermoelectric power factor, indicating the need for effective electrical doping strategies. In this critical review, recent studies aimed at enhancing the thermoelectric properties of MHPs are discussed, with a focus on the relatively under‐explored area of electrical doping in MHPs. The underlying charge transport mechanism and doping effect on transport are also examined. Finally, the challenges facing MHP thermoelectrics are highlighted, and potential research visions for achieving highly efficient thermoelectric conversion based on MHPs are offered.

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ILAE Genetics Literacy series: Progressive myoclonus epilepsies
Authors: Cameron Jillian M. , Ellis Colin A. , Berkovic Samuel F. ,   for the ILAE Genetics Commission,   the ILAE Genetic Literacy Task Force
Published: August 2023

Progressive Myoclonus Epilepsy (PME) is a rare epilepsy syndrome characterized by the development of progressively worsening myoclonus, ataxia, and seizures. A molecular diagnosis can now be established in approximately 80% of individuals with PME. Almost fifty genetic causes of PME have now been established, although some remain extremely rare. Herein, we provide a review of clinical phenotypes and genotypes of the more commonly encountered PMEs. Using an illustrative case example, we describe appropriate clinical investigation and therapeutic strategies to guide the management of this often relentlessly progressive and devastating epilepsy syndrome. This manuscript in the Genetic Literacy series maps to Learning Objective 1.2 of the ILAE Curriculum for Epileptology (Epileptic Disord. 2019;21:129).
Trust‐aware task load balancing in multi‐access edge computing based on blockchain and a zero trust security capability framework
Authors: Ali Belal , Gregory Mark A. , Li Shuo
Published: August 2023

The need for low‐latency service support at the network edge has increased due to new applications such as autonomous vehicles, facial recognition, and augmented reality. Multi‐access edge computing (MEC) has emerged as a promising component of next‐generation 5G and 6G networks that provides additional storage and computing capacity at the network edge to enhance application performance, load balancing, and reduce latency. Security challenges remain, and a zero trust security framework has the potential to reduce risk and improve visibility. A zero trust management module is introduced to authenticate users after a successful registration. This article presents a three‐layer MEC model implementing a trust‐aware load balancing decision process. A Q‐learning algorithm is used to estimate trust values. Task trust and indirect trust relationships are recorded using blockchain technology. Blockchain will enable a transparent and secure mechanism that contributes to secure resource management in an MEC environment. The results provided by a framework simulation highlight the improved security outcome.
Mechanisms of helium differential enrichment and helium‐nitrogen coupling: A case study from the Weiyuan and Anyue gas fields, Sichuan Basin, China
Authors: Zhao Dong , Wang Xiaofeng , Liu Wenhui , Li Xiaobin , Zhang Dongdong , Li Xiaofu , Zhang Jiayu
Published: August 2023

The helium (He) contents of the Weiyuan and Anyue gas fields in the Sichuan Basin (China) differ significantly despite their similar helium‐nitrogen (N2) coupling characteristics, that is, the positive correlation between the N2 and He contents, and the negative correlation between the nitrogen/helium (N2/He) ratio and depth. To determine the factors influencing the differential enrichment of He resources and He–N2 coupling in the Weiyuan and Anyue gas fields, this study analysed the compositions of natural gases within the study area and established a computational model for evaluating the dissolution and exsolution amount of He and N2 in the pore water. The results indicated that: the uplift of the basement granite was crucial for the exsolution and enrichment of dissolved helium, and it was also the main reason for He–N2 coupling. The differential uplift that occurred in the Leshan–Longnvsi palaeo‐uplift during the Himalayan period further promoted the differential enrichment of He resources, thus also impacting the N2/He ratio in the study area. The distinct quantities of N2 and He exsolution during the uplift directly affected the negative correlation between the N2/He ratio and the depth. Within the same depth range of the uplift, the average and variations of the N2/He ratio in the crust‐derived helium‐rich natural gas reservoir were inversely proportional to the in situ molar partial pressure of He. The uplift of the crystalline basement is an important mechanism that causes the enrichment of helium resources and the coupling of helium‐nitrogen in the crust‐derived helium‐rich natural gas reservoir, which is of great significance for understanding the variation of N2/He ratio and exploration of He resources.
Setting Risk Limits and Ensuring Fairness in Learning Health Care
Authors: Wendler David , Sullivan Connor
Published: August 2023

Historical abuses resulted in the segregation of clinical research and clinical care. While this approach has protected participants, it is extremely inefficient, leading commentators to propose (re)integrating research and care into learning health care systems. Previous commentators have argued that, in these systems, it could be appropriate to condition care on patients’ consent to participation in research, but only when the added research risks are minimal. In the article “Compulsory Research in Learning Health Care: Against a Minimal Risk Limit,” Robert Steel agrees about making research participation a condition for receiving care in these systems, but he argues that the limit to minimal risks is unfounded, and he offers compelling reasons to think that, in principle, permitting greater research risks could be fair and consistent with individual rights. Unfortunately, the nature of current institutions suggests that this approach is unlikely to be implemented fairly. We conclude that, to ensure fair learning health care systems, research and care may need to be reformed in more fundamental ways.
Lifespan neurodegeneration of the human brain in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Coupé Pierrick , Planche Vincent , Mansencal Boris , Kamroui Reda A. , Koubiyr Ismail , Manjòn José V. , Tourdias Thomas
Published: August 2023

Atrophy related to multiple sclerosis (MS) has been found at the early stages of the disease. However, the archetype dynamic trajectories of the neurodegenerative process, even prior to clinical diagnosis, remain unknown. We modeled the volumetric trajectories of brain structures across the entire lifespan using 40,944 subjects (38,295 healthy controls and 2649 MS patients). Then, we estimated the chronological progression of MS by assessing the divergence of lifespan trajectories between normal brain charts and MS brain charts. Chronologically, the first affected structure was the thalamus, then the putamen and the pallidum (around 4 years later), followed by the ventral diencephalon (around 7 years after thalamus) and finally the brainstem (around 9 years after thalamus). To a lesser extent, the anterior cingulate gyrus, insular cortex, occipital pole, caudate and hippocampus were impacted. Finally, the precuneus and accumbens nuclei exhibited a limited atrophy pattern. Subcortical atrophy was more pronounced than cortical atrophy. The thalamus was the most impacted structure with a very early divergence in life. Our experiments showed that lifespan models of most impacted structures could be an important tool for future preclinical/prodromal prognosis and monitoring of MS.
A prospective study on the efficacy of sequential treatment of technology Lipido‐Colloid Impregnated with Silver and Technology Lipido‐Colloid Nano‐Oligosaccharide Factor in the management of venous leg ulcers
Authors: Wong Natalie Shi Qi , Tan Audrey Hui Min , Chan Kai Siang , Goh Karine C. C. , Lai Peiting , Muthuveerappa Sivakami , Mohamed Nasir Mohamed Maliki Bin , Liang Shanying , Hong Qiantai , Yong Enming , Lo Zhiwen Joseph
Published: August 2023

Background and Aims

Venous leg ulcers (VLUs) are associated with significant morbidity and poor quality of life (QOL). Compression therapy and wound dressing are the mainstay treatment options. Technology Lipido‐Colloid Impregnated with Silver (TLC‐Ag) reduces bacterial load and Technology Lipido‐Colloid Nano‐Oligosaccharide Factor (TLC‐NOSF) reduces elevated matrix metalloproteinases and improve wound healing. However, evidence is scarce on the role of sequential therapy. This study aims to evaluate if sequential treatment with TLC‐Ag and TLC‐NOSF improves VLU wound healing and QOL.

Methods

This is a prospective cohort study from May 2020 to October 2021 on patients with VLUs who received sequential therapy, consisting of 2 weeks of TLC‐Ag followed by two‐layer compression bandage (2LB) with TLC‐NOSF until complete wound healing. Participants were followed‐up with weekly dressing changes. Our primary outcomes were wound area reduction (WAR) and Pressure Ulcer Scale of Healing (PUSH) score. Our secondary outcomes were QOL measures.

Results

There were 28 patients with 57.1% males (n = 16) with a mean age of 65.3 years. Mean duration of VLU was 13.9 ± 11.7 weeks before the initiation of sequential therapy. Mean baseline wound area was 8.44 cm2. Median time to wound healing was 10 weeks. 57.1% of patients achieved complete wound closure at 3 months. There was significant WAR after 1 month (mean area 8.44–5.81 cm2, 31.2% decrease) and after 3 months (mean area 8.44–2.53 cm2, 70.0% decrease). Mean monthly WAR was 28.9%. PUSH score also decreased at 1 month (16.5% decrease, p < 0.001) and 3 months (63.3% decrease, p < 0.001) marks following the sequential therapy. EuroQol Visual Analog Scale (EQ‐VAS) improved following sequential therapy (baseline: 69.0 ± 15.0, week 13: 80.2 ± 13.2, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Sequential therapy with TLC‐Ag followed by TLC‐NOSF and 2LB is feasible, with good wound healing and improvement in QOL of patients with VLUs.
Artificial tears: Promising treatment or silent threat to public health?
Authors: Mughal Sanila , Sakina Syeda K.
Published: August 2023

Background and Aims

Dry Eye Disease (DED) is a multifactorial chronic inflammatory condition of the corneal surface, attributed to insufficient or low‐quality production of tears, accounting for 5‐50% of the cases globally. Artificial tears are the first line of treatment as they reduce ocular surface tension, and improve film stability and optical quality. EzriCare Artificial Tears are preservative‐free, multi‐dose, readily accessible eye drops containing carboxymethylcellulose sodium solution (10 mg in 1 ml) aiming for relief against DED. This article discusses the public health challenges faced by the use of EzriCare Artificial Tears and emphasizes the need for alternative therapies for the effective management of DED.

Methods

We searched for articles documenting the incidence of the current multi‐drug resistant P. aeruginosa strain outbreak caused by the use of preservative‐free artificial tears and the challenges faced through the use of artificial tears on PubMed, and Google Scholar.

Results

EzriCare and other preservative‐free artificial tears have been reported to pose a serious public health risk as they have been found to be the commonly used product among the people infected with the current multi‐state outbreak of the multi‐drug resistant P. aeruginosa strain.

Conclusion

The current multi‐state outbreak of the multi‐drug resistant P. aeruginosa strain has raised concerns about the safe use of other artificial products. It is high time that further trials should be conducted on other alternative strategies and evaluate the safety and efficacy of nanotechnology in the treatment of dry eye disease.
Stacked deep model‐based classification of the multiclass brain hemorrhages in CT scans
Authors: Malik Payal , Vidyarthi Ankit
Published: August 2023

Intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) brain hemorrhages are life‐threatening medical conditions that require a prompt and accurate diagnosis to ensure timely intervention and treatment. Computed tomography (CT) scans play a vital role in diagnosing brain hemorrhages due to their ability to provide detailed cross‐sectional images of the brain. However, the manual interpretation of CT scans is time‐consuming and subjects to human error. To address these challenges, this study proposes a stacked deep model‐based classification approach for the automated identification and differentiation of multiclass brain hemorrhages in CT scans. The stacked deep model architecture consists of multiple layers of neural networks, each designed to learn specific levels of features, leading to enhanced representation learning and improved classification performance. Later, the stacked models are connected with the weighted approach that helps to get the ensemble models in the proper order based on their power of predicting correct samples. To build the stacked deep model, a large dataset of 7,52 000 annotated CT scans is utilized to train the model and optimize its parameters. Furthermore, transfer learning is employed to leverage pretrained models for feature extraction, which aids in handling limited data scenarios. Experimental results demonstrate that the stacked deep model achieves superior accuracy (98.56%), and other classification performance measures such as sensitivity (95.89%), specificity (99.58%), AUC‐ROC (98.47%), and weighted log loss (0.04967) as compared to conventional methods. The automated classification of multiclass brain hemorrhages in CT scans using the proposed model not only significantly reduces the time required for diagnosis but also enhances the reliability and consistency of results. This model has the potential to assist medical professionals in making more informed decisions and improve patient outcomes by enabling rapid and accurate diagnosis of brain hemorrhages.
Remotephotoplethysmography‐basedhuman vital sign prediction using cyclical algorithm
Authors: Gupta Kapil , Sinhal Ruchika , Badhiye Sagarkumar S.
Published: August 2023

This article aims to predict vital signs like heart rate (HR), respiration rate, and arterial oxygen saturation using ambient light video, eliminating chronic distortions through improved frame quality with BER estimation. The study employs the cascade residual CNN‐FPNR technique for preprocessing and SNR enhancement using energy variance maximization. The image cascade network (ICNet) facilitates segmentation, achieving strong segmentation in low‐light ambient videos. Remote photoplethysmography (iPPG) enables noncontact vital sign monitoring, predicting HR and respiratory rate (RR). An innovative noninvasive temperature and cyclical algorithm, incorporating principal component analysis and fast Fourier transform, evaluate patient HR and RR. To address challenges related to involuntary movements, a dynamic time‐warping‐based optimization method is used for precise region selection. The study introduces an intensity variance‐based threshold analysis for arterial oxygen saturation level determination. Ultimately, the support vector machine (SVM) classification technique evaluates the ground truth, showcasing the system's promising potential for remote and accurate vital sign assessment.
Left atrial strain superior to structural remodeling in identifying occult atrial fibrillation
Authors: Zhao Yingjie , Wang Yanan , Hu Chunqiang , Liu Yu , Cheng Yufei , Chen Haiyan , Shu Xianhong
Published: August 2023

Objective

Occult atrial fibrillation (AF) is a significant risk factor for occult stroke but is difficult to detect. Myocardial strain, based on speckle tracking echocardiography (STE), can detect subclinical changes in left atrial (LA) function. This study aimed to investigate the diagnostic value of LA strain in identifying asymptomatic AF patients with normal electrocardiograms and healthy volunteers.

Methods

A total of 354 subjects were retrospectively enrolled. Patients were divided into two groups based on whether they had AF during echocardiography. Patients with sinus rhythm during echocardiography were further divided into healthy control group and occult AF group. Patients with AF during echocardiography were further divided into paroxysmal AF group and persistent AF group. LA mechanical function measured by STE was compared between patients with asymptomatic AF and volunteers. Conventional echocardiographic indicators were measured. The diagnostic value of LA strain for identifying asymptomatic AF was assessed by univariate and multivariate regression analysis and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves.

Results

Occult AF patients had higher NT‐proBNP levels, larger RA area, larger LAVmax and decreased LAEF than control group. However, occult AF patients had lower NT‐proBNP levels, RA area and LAVmax and higher LAEF than paroxysmal and persistent AF. The measured LA reservoir strain (LASr), LA conduit strain (LAScd), LA contraction strain (LASct) of occult AF group was significantly lower than that of control group. However, occult AF patients had preserved LAScd and LASct than paroxysmal and persistent AF. RA area, LAEF and LASr were remarkable correlation with occult AF after adjustment for NT‐proBNP, LAVmax, and LAScd. The area under curve of ROC for LASr was the greatest among RA area, LAEF and LASr, with a cut‐off value of 34.1% (sensitivity: 75.4%, specificity: 87.6%).

Conclusion

LASr can identify occult AF in the asymptomatic population. Patients with LASr values ≤34.1% have a higher incidence of occult cardiac dysfunction. These findings help identify patients with occult AF and further risk stratification for the AF population.
Which information locations in covered entities under HIPAA must be secured first? A multi‐criteria decision‐making approach
Authors: Fard Bahreini Amir
Published: August 2023

Creating adequate safeguards for physical and online locations (e.g., desktop computers, network servers) where protected health information (PHI) may be breached is critical for management within entities compliant with the Health Information Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). With the increasing complexity of cyber breaches and budgetary issues, prioritizing which locations require the most immediate attention by top management through a data‐driven model is more important than ever. Using CORAS threat modeling and five methods for multi‐criteria decision‐making, these locations were ranked from greatest to least risk of data breaches. Statistical methods were subsequently used for consistency and robustness checks. The findings illustrate that each type of covered entity under HIPAA must prioritize a different set of locations to safeguard first: health care providers must focus on the security of network servers, other portable electronic devices, and category of others (i.e., miscellaneous locations); health plans must focus on the security of paper and films, network servers, and others; and business associates must focus on the security of category of others, network servers, and other portable electronic devices. Combined with data on the source of the breaches (external vs. internal) and type of threats (e.g., hacking, theft), these findings provide recommendations for risk identification for privacy officers across health care.
An improved synthesis of [18F]VAT and its precursor
Authors: Hu Bao , Akula Hari K. , Noh Doyoung , Mui Yiu Fung , Slifstein Mark , Parsey Ramin , Qu Wenchao
Published: August 2023

The vesicular acetylcholine transporter (VAChT) in the brain is an important presynaptic cholinergic biomarker, and neuroimaging studies of VAChT may provide in vivo information about psychiatric and neurologic conditions including Alzheimer's disease that are not accessible by other methods. The 18F‐labeled radiotracer, ((‐)‐(1‐(‐8‐(2‐[18F]fluoroethoxy)‐3‐hydroxy‐1,2,3,4‐tetrahydronaphthalen‐2‐yl)piperidin‐4‐yl)(4‐fluorophenyl)‐methanone ([18F]VAT, 1), was reported as a selective and high affinity ligand for the in vivo imaging of VAChT. The synthesis of [18F]VAT has been reported in a two‐step procedure with total 140 min, which includes preparation of 2‐[18F]fluoroethyltosylate and alkylation of benzovesamicol (‐)‐5 precursor with this radiosynthon using two different automated production modules consecutively. A multiple step synthetic route was employed for the synthesis of stereospecific precursor benzovesamicol (‐)‐5, which is difficult to be adapted for scale‐up. To make the production of this tracer more amenable for clinical imaging, we present an improved total synthesis protocol to attain [18F]VAT: (1) a tosylethoxy group being pre‐installed tosylate precursor (‐)‐8 is synthesized to render a simple one‐step radiofluorination under mild conditions; (2) The key optically active intermediate benzovesamicol (‐)‐5 was obtained via the regio‐ and enantio‐enriched ring‐opening amination of meso‐epoxide 3 with 4‐phenylpiperidine derivative 2 under catalysis of a chiral salenCo(III) catalyst 4b, which dramatically simplifies the synthetic route of the tosylate precursor (‐)‐8. [18F]VAT 1 was prepared within ~65 min with desired chemical and radiochemical purities, via a fully automated procedure, using a commercial PET tracer production module. The final drug product was obtained as a sterile, pyrogen‐free solution that conforms United States Pharmacopeia (USP) <823> requirements.
Understanding the fragmentation of glucose in mass spectrometry
Authors: Patras Maria A. , Davalos Juan Z. , Kuhnert Nikolai
Published: August 2023

The fragmentation mechanism of D‐glucose was investigated in detail by two different fragmentation techniques, namely, collision‐induced dissociation (CID) and infrared multiphoton dissociation (IRMPD) using all six 13C‐labeled isotopomers and 2H‐labeled isotopomers. For both CID and IRMPD energy‐resolved measurements were carried out. Individual fragmentation pathways were studied at MS2 and MS3 levels. Additionally, we have developed an HPLC‐tandem MS method to separate the anomers of D‐glucose using a HILIC column and investigated their fragmentation patterns individually. We propose a complete fragmentation landscape of D‐glucose, demonstrating that a rather simple multifunctional molecule displays extreme complexity in gas phase dissociation, following multiple parallel fragmentation routes yielding a total of 23 distinct fragment ions. The results allowed a detailed formulation of the complex fragmentation mechanism of D‐glucose. The results have immediate consequences for the full structure analysis of complex carbohydrates.
A study on twitching motility dynamics in Ralstonia solanacearum microcolonies by live imaging
Authors: Bhuyan Shuvam , Dutta Lukapriya , Begum Shuhada , Giri Shubhra J. , Jain Monika , Mandal Manabendra , Ray Suvendra K.
Published: August 2023

Ralstonia solanacearum is a rod‐shaped phytopathogenic bacterium that causes lethal wilt disease in many plants. On solid agar growth medium, in the early hour of the growth of the bacterial colony, the type IV pili‐mediated twitching motility, which is important for its virulence and biofilm formation, is prominently observed under the microscope. In this study, we have done a detailed observation of twitching motility in R. solanacearum colony. In the beginning, twitching motility in the microcolonies was observed as a density‐dependent phenomenon that influences the shape of the microcolonies. No such phenomenon was observed in Escherichia coli, where twitching motility is absent. In the early phase of colony growth, twitching motility exhibited by the cells at the peripheral region of the colony was more prominent than the cells toward the center of the colony. Using time‐lapse photography and merging the obtained photomicrographs into a video, twitching motility was observed as an intermittent phenomenon that progresses in layers in all directions as finger‐like projections at the peripheral region of a bacterial colony. Each layer of bacteria twitches on top of the other and produces a multilayered film‐like appearance. We found that the duration between the emergence of each layer diminishes progressively as the colony becomes older. This study on twitching motility demonstrates distinctly heterogeneity among the cells within a colony regarding their dynamics and the influence of microcolonies on each other regarding their morphology.
Addressing social determinants of health: Supporting ex‐offenders’ employment through use of the Systems Theory Framework
Authors: Gantt‐Howrey Alexandra , Park Chan Jeong , Griffith Jasmine A. H. , Jones Janelle L. , Robins Lauren B. , Johnson Kaprea F.
Published: August 2023

There remains a need for counselors well‐prepared to work with ex‐offenders. As counselors aim to meet ethical obligations toward advocacy, they often seek to address social determinants of health (SDOH) challenges. Those working with ex‐offenders should be aware of unique employment challenges ex‐offenders may face and possess a baseline knowledge of the justice system for pertinent collaboration. This paper provides an explanation of how the Systems Theory Framework may be used to address ex‐offenders’ employment‐related needs through addressing SDOH challenges and collaborating with the justice system. Implications for employment counselors, counselor educators, and supervisors and steps for future research conclude.
Dietary collagen peptide‐chelated trace elements supplementation for breeder hens improves the intestinal health of chick offspring
Authors: Liu Yongfa , Li Simeng , Huang Zhenwu , Dai Hongjian , Shi Fangxiong , Lv Zengpeng
Published: August 2023

BACKGROUND

Dietary supplementation with trace elements zinc (Zn), iron (Fe) and manganese (Mn) could promote intestinal development and improve intestinal health. There are, however, few studies examining the possibility that maternal original Zn, Fe and Mn could regulate intestinal development and barrier function in the offspring. This study aimed to investigate how the intestinal growth and barrier function of breeder offspring were affected by collagen peptide‐chelated trace elements (PTE; Zn, Fe, Mn).

RESULTS

PTE supplementation in the diet of breeder hens increased the concentrations of Zn, Fe and Mn in egg yolk. Maternal PTE supplementation improved morphological parameters of the intestine (villi height, crypt depth and villi height/crypt depth) and upregulated the mRNA expression level of leucine‐rich repeat‐containing G protein‐coupled receptor 5 (Lgr5) in the ileum of chick embryos. Furthermore, maternal PTE effect improved villi height/crypt depth of offspring at 1 and 14 days of age, and upregulated Lgr5, Claudin‐3 and E‐cadherin mRNA expression in the broiler ileum. Additionally, PTE treatment could enhance the intestinal microbial diversity of offspring. Maternal PTE supplementation increased the relative abundance of Clostridiales at the genus level and decreased the relative abundance of Enterococcus in newborn offspring. Moreover, maternal PTE supplementation ameliorated the elevated nuclear factor kappa B, toll‐like receptor 4 and interleukin 1β mRNA expression in the ileum of offspring caused by LPS challenge.

CONCLUSION

Maternal PTE supplementation could promote intestinal development and enhance the intestinal barrier function of chicken offspring. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Construction of circ_0071922‐miR‐15a‐5p‐mRNA network in intervertebral disc degeneration by RNA‐sequencing
Authors: Li Yongjin , Wang Baobao , Sun Wenzhi , Kong Chao , Ding Junzhe , Hu Feng , Li Jianhua , Chen Xiaolong , Lu Shibao
Published: August 2023

Background

Low back pain (LBP) is the main factor of global disease burden. Intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) has long been known as the leading reason of LBP. Increasing studies have verified that circular RNAs (circRNAs)‐microRNAs (miRNAs)‐mRNAs network is widely involved in the pathological processes of IVDD. However, no study was made to demonstrate the circRNAs‐mediated ferroptosis, oxidative stress, extracellular matrix metabolism, and immune response in IVDD.

Methods

We collected 3 normal and 3 degenerative nucleus pulposus tissues to conduct RNA‐sequencing to identify the key circRNAs and miRNAs in IVDD. Bioinformatics analysis was then conducted to construct circRNAs‐miRNAs‐mRNAs interaction network associated with ferroptosis, oxidative stress, extracellular matrix metabolism, and immune response. We also performed animal experiments to validate the therapeutic effects of key circRNAs in IVDD.

Results

We found that circ_0015435 was most obviously upregulated and circ_0071922 was most obviously downregulated in IVDD using RNA‐sequencing. Then we observed that hsa‐miR‐15a‐5p was the key downstream of circ_0071922, and hsa‐miR‐15a‐5p was the top upregulated miRNA in IVDD. Bioinformatics analysis was conducted to predict that 56 immunity‐related genes, 29 ferroptosis‐related genes, 23 oxidative stress‐related genes and 8 ECM‐related genes are the targets mRNAs of hsa‐miR‐15a‐5p. Then we constructed a ceRNA network encompassing 24 circRNAs, 6 miRNAs, and 101 mRNAs. Additionally, we demonstrated that overexpression of circ_0071922 can alleviate IVDD progression in a rat model.

Conclusions

The findings of this study suggested that circ_0071922‐miR‐15a‐5p‐mRNA signaling network might affect IVDD by modulating the nucleus pulposus cells ferroptosis, oxidative stress, ECM metabolism, and immune response, which is an effective therapeutic targets of IVDD.