bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A review of various analytical methods for the estimation of olanzapine: An antipsychotic drug
Authors: S. Reka , Sheikh Afsana , Almalki Waleed H. , Kesharwani Prashant , Thanikachalam Punniyakoti Veeraveedu
Published: March 2023

Olanzapine (OLZ) is an antipsychotic agent and is a thienobenzodiazepine derivative. It is used either in combination with other drugs like carbamazepine, simvastatin, and clozapine or as a single drug. The present work is mainly focused on various approaches for OLZ analysis in bulk drugs as well as on their pharmaceutical formulations. It is also focused on various bioanalytical methods used for analysis. Our survey showed that many analytical techniques were carried out using UV spectrophotometry, MS, LC–MS/MS techniques, and chromatographic techniques like HPLC and high‐performance thin layer chromatography in both bulk and solid dosage forms. Bioanalytical techniques were also performed using human plasma or serum. The analysis was carried out either for a single drug or for a combination of drugs. This review shows the rate of use of the different methodologies for OLZ analysis. A considerable amount of information was collected and utilized for the strategies.
Analysis of urgent inpatient neurologic consultations in a large tertiary hospital center: Follow‐up on the effect of standardized training of residents
Authors: Wang Jiafang , Ren Min , Wang Hong , Bai Zhenzhen , Zeng Kebin
Published: March 2023

Background

Clinical neurology is difficult for young residents. To familiarize with neurological emergencies as soon as possible for young doctors, the urgent inpatient neurologic consultations were analyzed.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted on the urgent inpatient neurologic consultations in a large tertiary hospital for 4 consecutive years.

Results

A total of 1437 cases were included, and the annual consultation cases gradually decreased from 573 to 257, involving 29 clinical departments. The disorders of urgent inpatient neurologic consultations were divided into three categories: neurological disorders (77.8%), non‐neurological disorders (10.4%), and undiagnosed disorders (11.8%), common causes in consultation were disturbance of consciousness (36.0%), convulsions/stiffness (13.6%), limb weakness (8%), and mental disorder (5.6%). Common neurological disorders included acute cerebrovascular disease (33.6%), epilepsy/status epilepticus (15.8%), and metabolic or infectious toxic encephalopathy (14.9%).

Conclusion

Urgent inpatient neurologic consultations involve multidisciplinary critical diseases, mainly neurological diseases. The standardized training of residents may help to rapidly improve the comprehensive diagnosis and treatment ability of young residents and is suitable for use in hospitals at all levels.
Epithelioid trophoblastic tumor with antecedent molar pregnancy in an HIV‐positive patient
Authors: Black Louisa , Bowes Alexandra , Seckl Michael , Maher Geoffrey , Kaur Baljeet , Arumainayagam Joseph , Acharya Sashi
Published: March 2023

Epithelioid trophoblastic tumor (ETT) is a rare malignancy arising from neoplastic proliferation of chorionic‐type intermediate trophoblasts. ETT poses significant challenges to clinicians in the diagnosis and treatment and can hence lead to a poor prognosis. We report a unique case of metastatic ETT in a HIV‐positive patient.
A Unifying Concept for the Prebiotic Formation of RNA Pyrimidine Nucleosides
Authors: Feldmann Jonas , Skaanning Mads K. , Lommel Marcus , Kernmayr Tobias , Mayer Peter , Carell Thomas
Published: March 2023

The question of how nucleosides might have formed as essential precursor molecules on the early Earth is one of the many challenges associated with the origin of life. In this context, the prebiotic synthesis of pyrimidine nucleosides is controversially discussed. For the pyrimidines, two at first glance contradictory prebiotically plausible reaction pathways have been proposed, based on either oxazole or isoxazole chemistry. This study shows that these two reaction sequences can be merged under prebiotically reasonable conditions, suggesting that both pathways could have co‐existed and possibly interacted. The key precursor 3‐aminoisoxazole was found to react with the key intermediate of the oxazole route (ribo‐2‐(methylthio)oxazoline), to form a ribo‐isoxazole‐oxazoline hybrid structure, which collapses upon reductive N−O bond cleavage to give the nucleoside cytidine. The data suggest that different, interacting prebiotically plausible chemical pathways may have created the key molecules of life on the early Earth.
Summary of tillage practices in peanut in the Virginia–Carolina region of the United States
Authors: Jordan David L. , Shew Barbara B. , Brandenburg Rick L. , Anco Dan , Balota Maria
Published: March 2023

Core Ideas

Deep tillage in the form of moldboard plow decreased in peanut in North Carolina from 1998 to 2018.

Reduced tillage was adopted by more peanut farmers in South Carolina and Virginia than in North Carolina.

More farmers strip‐tilled peanut across all states rather than no till.
Excitation‐Wavelength‐Dependent Luminescence of Chemically and Physically Mixed Europium and Terbium Phosphonates: Color‐Tunable Luminescence, Near‐White‐Light Emission, and Selective Fe3+ Detection
Authors: Hu Zhi‐Jia , Tsai Meng‐Jung , Tu Yi‐Jung , Wu Jing‐Yun
Published: March 2023

Molecular lanthanide phosphonates [Ln2(H3tpmm)2(H2O)6] ⋅ xH2O (Ln=Eu, EuP; Ln=Tb, TbP) were synthesized. Single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction confirmed that EuP has a sandwich‐like dinuclear structure, in which the Eu(III) center adopts a {EuO8} distorted dodecahedral geometry. XRPD patterns prove that TbP and EuP are isomorphous and isostructural. EuP and TbP are highly thermally stable approaching 450 °C and exhibit red‐ and green‐light emissions from the characteristic 4 f–4 f transition of the Eu3+ and Tb3+, respectively. Interestingly, luminescence modulation is achieved for the chemically mixed Eu/Tb phosphonate analogues, c‐EuxTb2–xP (x=1.5, 1, 0.5), and physically mixed Eu/Tb phosphonate materials, p‐yEuP : zTbP (y : z=3 : 1, 1 : 1, 1 : 3), with varying the excitation wavelength. Of particular note, near‐white‐light emission is also achieved for c‐EuTbP, p‐EuP : TbP, and p‐EuP : 3TbP when excited at 365 nm. Therefore, these dinuclear molecular lanthanide phosphonates emitting excitation wavelength and Eu3+ : Tb3+ ratio dependent luminescence might be potential candidates for color‐tunable luminescence materials and white‐light‐emitting materials. On the other hand, the bright green‐light emission makes TbP to be an excellent reusable luminescence sensor for selective detection of Fe3+ with Stern‐Volmer quenching constant (KSV) of 9.66×103 M−1 and detection limit (DL) of 0.42 μM through absorption competition caused luminescence quenching effect.
Radiation‐Responsive Benzothiazolines as Potential Cleavable Fluorogenic Linkers for Drug Delivery
Authors: Tuo Wei , Renault Jean‐Philippe , Rajpal Aashini , Pin Serge , Le Gall Thierry , Taran Frédéric
Published: March 2023

Radiosensitive compounds can be useful for the detection of radiations and also as prodrugs that can be activated during a radiotherapy. Herein we describe the use of benzothiazolines, which upon treatment with 137Cs produced γ‐irradiation in water give rise to fluorescent benzothiazoles and concomitant release of amines or carboxylic acids. In a proof of concept study, we showed that benzothiazolines may be used as new cleavable linkers that can be triggered upon irradiation.
Chalcogen Atom Size Dictates Stability of Benzene‐1,3,5‐triamide Polymers: Overlooked Role of Geometrical Fit for Enhanced Hydrogen Bonding
Authors: Nieuwland Celine , Lekanne Deprez Siebe , de Vries Claris , Fonseca Guerra Célia
Published: March 2023

Our quantum chemical analyses elucidated how the replacement of O in the amide bonds of benzene‐1,3‐5‐tricarboxamides (OBTAs) with the larger chalcogens S and Se enhances the intermolecular interactions and thereby the stability of the obtained hydrogen‐bonded supramolecular polymers due to two unexpected reasons: i) the SBTA and SeBTA monomers have a better geometry for self‐assembly and ii) induce stronger covalent (hydrogen‐bond) interactions besides enhanced dispersion interactions. In addition, it is shown that the cooperativity in benzene‐1,3,5‐triamide (BTA) self‐assembly is caused by charge separation in the σ‐electronic system following the covalency in the hydrogen bonds.
Study of Shell Growth Processes of Copper Iron Selenide‐based Near‐infrared Emitting Nanocrystals
Authors: Sugathan Anumol , Tomar Nitin , Rajasekar Guru Pratheep , Anshu Ashwini , Pandey Anshu
Published: March 2023

Core/shell growth in nanosystems is usually accomplished either through deposition of the shell material or else through the conversion of a part of the core into the shell through ion exchange. Here we describe the interplay of both deposition processes in the case of CuFeSe2/CdS nanocrystals. Specifically, we synthesize eskebornite CuFeSe2 nanoparticles. Films of the nanocrystals exhibit an optical absorbance onset of 0.11 eV. Core/shell structures prepared from CuFeSe2 show a unique dependence on the growth steps followed. In particular, we find that the addition of the cationic precursor before the anionic precursor leads to the formation of CdSe at the interface of the core and the shell. This is found to limit the tunability of the emission to 820 nm. In contrast, reversing the order of precursor addition prevents the formation of such a layer and leads to structures with a significantly greater emission tunability (900 nm to 1200 nm). Our observations are suggestive of the interplay of both processes in current syntheses for I‐III‐VI2 based core/shell structures.
The Alchemist, Metal‐Divider and Transmuter Carl F. Wenzel and his 1776 Award from the Royal Danish Academy of Sciences through Professor C. G. Kratzenstein
Authors: Wentrup Curt
Published: March 2023

C. F. Wenzel was a chemist and an alchemist. He had deep knowledge of acids, bases and salts, and he was credited with the first formulation of the Law of Mass Action. Yet he was also an alchemist, who on the eve of the Chemical Revolution published his beliefs in transmutation and in the division of metals into their constituents, for which he was rewarded with the gold medal of the Royal Danish Academy of the Sciences. His promoter, Professor C. G. Kratzenstein, was himself a believer in transmutation, even if he voiced some reservations.
Protective effect of antioxidant peptides from bass (Lateolabrax japonicus) on oxidative stress injury in Caco‐2 cells
Authors: Li Chen , Chen Xu , Li Lichan , Cheng Jing , Chen Huimin , Gao Qun , Yang Fujia , Cai Xixi , Wang Shaoyun
Published: March 2023

Excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) can induce oxidative damage to cell membranes and biomolecules, leading to various chronic diseases. Therefore, the exploration of effective natural antioxidants that can replace traditional synthetic antioxidants to reduce excess free radicals without side effects is important. Herein, the antioxidant peptide (Lateolabrax japonicus protein hydrolysates; LPH) was obtained from bass (L. japonicus) by an optimal enzymatic hydrolysis process. The protective effect of LPH on the Caco‐2 cell oxidative stress model and the potential antioxidant signaling pathways were explored. The results showed that LPH was rich in hydrophobic amino acids, and the IC50 for 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging activity was 0.9667 mg/mL. Furthermore, the LPH treatment reduced cellular ROS levels and lipid peroxidation while increasing antioxidant enzyme activity in a dose‐dependent manner (p < .05). LPH also upregulated the expression of mRNAs related to antioxidant enzymes in the Nrf2 signaling pathway (p < .05), demonstrating the efficacy of LPH on the Nrf2–ARE signaling pathway. These results suggested that LPH could be used as a potential food‐derived antioxidant in the food and healthcare industries.
The nutritional quality and contents of heavy elements due to thermal processing and storage in canned Thunnus tonggol fish change compared to fresh fish
Authors: Aberoumand Ali , Baesi Ferideh
Published: March 2023

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the nutritional quality and concentration of heavy and toxic metals in the fresh and canned tuna Thunnus tonggol at different storage periods. The content of iron, zinc, copper, mercury, and also macronutrient compounds in the Iranian fresh and canned tuna fish and the effects of thermal processing and subsequent storage on metal contents were evaluated using atomic absorption spectroscopy. The results showed that the levels of iron, zinc, copper, and mercury after the 6th, 9th, and 11th months of storage were 26.52, 10.83, 6.22, and 0.04 mg/kg, respectively. The concentrations of iron, zinc, copper, and mercury in the fresh fish were 11.03, 7.11, 1.71, and 0.03 mg/kg, respectively. The results of the statistical analysis of the samples showed that canning process and sterilization by autoclave increased the contents of elements except mercury to a significant level (p < .05). The results showed that the amount of fat significantly increased in all samples after storage (p < .05), but the ash and protein content significantly decreased (p < .05). The moisture content significantly increased (p < .05) except for the 9th month of storage. The obtained results showed that the energy value after 6 months of storage was the highest (297.53 kcal/100 g). The results showed that the bioaccumulation of copper, iron, zinc, and mercury in the fresh and canned muscles was lower than the standard concentration recommended by the FAO and WHO. This type of fish was a high‐quality food source and it was safe after 11 months of storage and was suitable for human consumption. Therefore, the consumption of Iranian canned tuna can be safe for human health despite the possible contamination with heavy metals.
The impact of performance‐based financing within local health systems: Evidence from Mozambique
Authors: Anselmi Laura , Ohrnberger Julius , Fichera Eleonora , Nhassengo Pedroso , Fernandes Quinhas F. , Chicumbe Sergio
Published: March 2023

Most evidence on Performance Based Financing (PBF) in low‐income settings has focused on services delivered by providers in targeted health administrations, with limited understanding of how effects on health and care vary within them. We evaluated the population effects of a program implemented in two provinces in Mozambique, focusing on child, maternal and HIV/AIDS care and knowledge. We used a difference‐in‐difference estimation strategy applied to data on mothers from the Demographic Health Surveys, linked to information on their closest health facility. The impact of PBF was limited. HIV testing during antenatal care increased, particularly for women who were wealthier, more educated, or residing in Gaza Province. Knowledge about transmission of HIV from mother‐to‐child, and its prevention, increased, particularly for women who were less wealthy, less educated, or residing in Nampula Province. Exploiting the roll‐out by facility, we found that the effects were concentrated on less wealthy and less educated women, whose closest facility was in the referral network of a PBF facility. Results suggest that HIV testing and knowledge promotion increased in the whole district, as a strategy to boost referral for highly incentivized HIV services delivered in PBF facilities. However, demand‐side constraints may prevent the use of those services.
Ultrasmall barium titanate nanoparticles modulated stretchable dielectric elastomer sensors with large deformability and high sensitivity
Authors: Feng Zun‐Peng , Hao Ya‐Nan , Qin Jing , Zhong Shao‐Long , Bi Ke , Zhao Yu , Yin Li‐Juan , Pei Jia‐Yao , Dang Zhi‐Min
Published: March 2023

Large deformability and high sensitivity is difficult to be realized simultaneously in flexible sensors. Herein, taking advantage of the high permittivity and highly active surfaces of the ultrasmall barium titanate nanoparticles (BT NPs) and the high stretchability of the p(BA‐GMA) elastomer matrix, we propose a high‐performance soft stretchable sensor. The addition of the ultrasmall BT NPs can not only increase the permittivity and capacitance of polyacrylate‐matrix composite dielectric material to obtain a high sensitivity, but also basically maintains the excellent mechanical properties of the polymer matrix. The dielectric constants of the composite films increase from 5.68 to 13.13 at 10 kHz with the increase of BT NPs content from 0 to 15 vol.%, which results in a high capacitance of 236.16 pF for 15 vol.% BT/p(BA‐GMA) sensor. Combining the high permittivity and the large deformability (a maximal deformation of 87.2%), the 15 vol.% BT/p(BA‐GMA) sensor has high sensitivity and shows high linearity and stable output even if under dynamic measurement. The dual‐mode sensor that utilizes the orthogonality of capacitance‐resistance is designed, which shows excellent performance in monitoring human body movements and noncontact measurement. The results present that the BT/p(BA‐GMA)‐based sensor has high stability and reliability not exceed 65°C, which can meet the application requirements in dynamic monitoring.

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Estimation of misreporting probability in corporate credit rating: A nonparametric approach
Authors: Lu Ruichang , Luo Yao , Xiao Ruli
Published: March 2023

There has been heated debate regarding credit‐rating agencies' (CRAs') reporting accuracy of corporate credit ratings, which is essential for investors because they rely on those crediting ratings to make investment decisions. We estimate the reporting accuracy using the data on corporate ratings from Standard & Poor from January 1986 to December 2011. First, there is a U‐shape in the overall misreporting pattern: the left‐hand side (the high‐rating groups) has a lower misreporting probability (3%), the middle has no misreporting, and the right‐hand side has a high misreporting probability (6%). Second, we find that there is a significant difference across the industries. The financial sector has the highest misreporting probability (35% in the lowest rating group) and misreporting magnitude (rating rank jump between true rating and reported rating), and the energy industry has the lowest misreporting probability. Last, when the economic condition is good, CRAs are likelier to inflate the rating.
Latent profile analysis of adolescent temperament: Relations to happiness and health in adulthood
Authors: Guerin Diana Wright , Gottfried Allen W. , Preston Kathleen S. J. , Gottfried Adele Eskeles , Ramos Michelle C. , Oliver Pamella H. , Cheng Chia‐Hsin Emily , Riggio Ronald E.
Published: March 2023

Introduction

This study provides long‐term evidence that profiles of temperament during adolescence are associated with happiness and health over two decades later.

Methods

Data are based on the ongoing Fullerton Longitudinal Study, a community‐based sample in the United States. At 14 and 16 years, adolescents (N = 111; 52% male, 90% Euro‐American) and their mothers (N = 105) completed the Dimensions of Temperament Survey‐Revised, a scale designed specifically to assess adolescents' temperament across a set of attributes. When adolescents reached age 38 years in 2017, they completed scales measuring comprehensive happiness and global health.

Results

Latent profile analysis (LPA), a person‐centered approach, was conducted for adolescents' and for mothers' temperament ratings separately. Distinct two‐profile solutions, labeled more regulated and less regulated, emerged for each informant. These were comparable in features across informants. Only the adolescents' self‐rated profiles, controlling for sex and family SES, revealed a conceptually meaningful and statistically significant relation to the distal outcomes of health and happiness two decades later.

Conclusions

Adolescents with temperament profiles characterized as more regulated, in contrast to less regulated, reported being happier and healthier upon entering middle adulthood. Implications for intervention are presented.
Behavioral health services in Urban American Indian Health Programs: Results from six site visits
Authors: Pomerville Andrew , Wilbur Rachel E. , Pham Tony V , King Cheryl A. , Gone Joseph P.
Published: March 2023

This study explores behavioral health services for American Indians and Alaska Natives (AIANs) at six Urban Indian Health Programs (UIHPs). Interviews and focus groups with clinicians and staff inquired about behavioral health treatment available, service needs, client population, and financial and staffing challenges. Resulting site profiles were created based on focused coding and integrative memoing of site visit field notes and respondent transcripts. These six UIHPs evidenced diversity across multiple facets of service delivery even as they were united in their missions to provide accessible and effective behavioral health treatment to urban AIAN clients. Primary challenges to service provision included heterogenous client populations, low insurance coverage, limited provider knowledge, lack of resources, and incorporation of traditional healing. Collaborative research with UIHPs harbors the potential to recognize challenges, identify solutions, and share best practices across this crucial network of health care sites for improving urban AIAN well‐being.
Extraction and separation studies of Nd/Fe and Sm/Co by deep eutectic solvent containing Aliquat 336 and glycerol
Authors: Prusty Susmita , Pradhan Sanghamitra , Mishra Sujata
Published: March 2023

BACKGROUND

In today's technologically developed society, the demand for materials with enormous applications in electrical and electronic devices has been sharply increasing. Rare earths, like neodymium and samarium, are two of these high‐demand materials. Their widespread use as permanent magnets in association with some transition metals (like iron and cobalt) has created the need to design novel and environmentally benign pathways for their extraction and separation.

RESULTS

The present work demonstrates the use of a novel deep eutectic solvent (DES) synthesized from Aliquat 336 and Glycerol diluted in kerosene for the solvent extractive separation studies of Nd/Fe and Sm/Co from nitrate medium. The variations in thermophysical attributes (like density, dielectric permittivity, and refractive index) provide insight on their extraction behavior, DES efficiency, and separation feasibility. Effects of variable experimental conditions, like pH, mixing time, temperature, DES molarity, nitrate concentration, and phase volume ratio, on separation have been examined. Complete separations of Nd(III)/Fe(III) and Sm(III)/Co(III) were achieved under multiple extraction conditions. Using the organic to aqueous phase volume ratio (O/A) ratio = 2:1 (pH = 2, [NaNO3] = 3.5 M, [DES] = 0.2 M, T = 298 K), the highest extraction percentage of Nd(III) was found to be 93.8%, and with O/A = 4:1(pH = 2, 2 M NaNO3, 0.2 M DES, 298 K), that of Sm(III) was 93.6%. Stripping was 100% for Nd and Sm using 0.6 M HCl.

CONCLUSION

Ali‐Gly DES diluted in kerosene showed the highest selectivity for Nd, then for Sm, followed by Fe. It did not extract cobalt under the considered conditions. A lower time consumption, room temperature separation, and the low concentration of DES used are the major findings of the present research work. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Product sieving of mAb and its high molecular weight species in different modes of ATF and TFF perfusion cell cultures
Authors: Pappenreiter Magdalena , Schwarz Hubert , Sissolak Bernhard , Jungbauer Alois , Chotteau Véronique
Published: March 2023

BACKGROUND

Tangential flow filtration (TFF) systems are widely used cell retention devices in perfusion cultures, but significant challenges occur with their prolonged operation. A well‐known and common issue includes membrane fouling, which leads to reduced permeate flow and increased product retention. The fouling behavior in hollow fibers have been studied widely and the application of alternating flow profiles, cell lysis, shear stress, and membrane pore size have been found to be major contributors to this phenomenon.

RESULTS

In this work, different process set ups and conditions were tested using magnetic levitation pumps for low shear TFF systems in small‐scale perfusion bioreactors (200 mL). A novel concept based on the application of reverse flow across the hollow fiber using two magnetically levitating pumps was validated with a Chinese Hamster Ovary cells (CHO) cell line producing a recombinant monoclonal antibody. Product sieving could be improved by 30% when a dynamic recirculation flow was applied. Furthermore, minimal product retention was achieved by reversing the flow of two alternating pumps with short cycle times. Besides this, a correlation was found between the passage of high molecular weight species to the harvest stream of the perfusion process and the flow direction, as well as the degree of product sieving.

CONCLUSION

TFF with a reverse flow is a valuable alternative to an alternating tangential flow (ATF) system for overcoming antibody retention and it can be used at various scales and at a constant bioreactor volume. The comparison of ATF and TFF showed differences in product yield and purity and is, therefore, an important point for process design. © 2023 The Authors. Journal of Chemical Technology and Biotechnology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Engineering ableism: The exclusion and devaluation of engineering students and professionals with physical disabilities and chronic and mental illness
Authors: Cech Erin A.
Published: March 2023

Background

The experiences of students and professionals with disabilities are routinely excluded from scholarly and policy debates about equity in engineering. Emergent research suggests that engineering is particularly ableist, yet systematic accounts of the possible exclusion and devaluation faced by engineers with disabilities are largely missing.

Purpose/Hypothesis

This paper asks, do engineers with disabilities have more negative interpersonal experiences in engineering classrooms and workplaces than those without disabilities? Utilizing a social relational model of disability, I hypothesize that engineers with physical disabilities and chronic and mental illness are more likely to experience exclusion and professional devaluation than their peers and, partly as a result, have lower persistence intentions.

Data/Methods

The paper uses survey data from 1729 students enrolled in eight US engineering programs (American Society for Engineering Education Diversity and Inclusion Survey) and 8321 US‐employed engineers (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math Inclusion Study Survey). Analyses use regression, mediation, and intersectional approaches.

Results

Consistent with expectations, engineering students and professionals with disabilities are less likely than their peers to experience social inclusion and professional respect at school and work. Students with disabilities are more likely to intend to leave their engineering programs and professionals with disabilities are more likely to have thought about leaving their engineering jobs compared to peers, and their greater risks of encountering interpersonal bias help account for these differences. Analyses also reveal intersectional variation by gender and race/ethnicity.

Conclusion

These results suggest that engineering harbors widespread ableism across education and work. The findings demand more scholarly attention to the social, cultural, and physical barriers that block people with disabilities from full and equal participation in engineering.
Synthesis of cyclic amino acid baikiain via asymmetric phase transfer catalysis
Authors: Espinoza‐Hicks José C. , Chávez‐Flores David , Galán Gerardo Zaragoza , Camacho‐Dávila Alejandro A.
Published: March 2023

The synthesis of the cyclic, naturally occurring amino acid baikiain from glycine and cis‐1,4‐butenediol is reported. The key step of the synthesis is an enantioselective phase transfer catalyzed allylation of the benzophenone imine of glycine t‐butyl ester, catalyzed by a cinchonidine quaternary ammonium salt, which provided the allylated glycine in 82% yield and 80% e.e. Further deprotection and hydrolysis of the Schiff base followed by an intramolecular Mitsunobu ring closure reaction yielded the corresponding piperidine ring system in 77% yield, which by hydrolysis yielded baikiain hydrochloride in 36% overall yield. Hydrogenation of the double bond could provide access to (S)‐pipecolic acid, which is also an important chiral synthon.
Is there ‘undue’ deindustrialization in developed countries?
Authors: He Yong
Published: March 2023

Deindustrialization in the sense of a decline in the share of industry in GDP, generally observed in developed countries, is explained by the three‐sector model. While this model shows a ‘normal’ level of deindustrialization, this study proposes to use unbalanced trade to assess the existence of undue deindustrialization in 21 major developed countries and empirically confirms its existence. At finer sectoral levels, by grouping these countries into Europ16 and Pacific5, the direct and indirect impacts of trade on these countries over the period 1991–2018 are assessed. The results suggest that Pacific5 was more affected than Europ16 and that China exerted stronger trade effects in causing this undue decline than nine other emerging Asian countries combined.
The impact of nurse staffing on turnover and quality: An empirical examination of nursing care within hospital units
Authors: Peng Xiaosong (David) , Ye Yuan , Ding Xin (David) , Chandrasekaran Aravind
Published: March 2023

Inadequate nurse staffing continues to challenge healthcare delivery in the United States. In this research, we undertake a fine‐grained, unit‐level analysis to understand the relationships between nurse staffing, nurse turnover, and pressure ulcers, the latter of which is a key nursing‐sensitive care quality indicator. We examine these relationships within two types of hospital units: intensive care units (ICUs) and medical‐surgical (MedSurg) units, which have unique patient mixes and needs. Using hospital unit‐level data between 2008 and 2017, we show that nurse staffing primarily affects nurse turnover in ICUs, and that the adverse effects of nurse turnover on care quality tend to be stronger in ICUs than in MedSurg units. These findings provide important theoretical insights into the varying roles of staffing, turnover, and quality across organizational units. The findings suggest that hospital administrators may prioritize staffing needs for ICUs over MedSurg units to maintain strong quality performance on measures such as pressure ulcers. Further, our study reveals that staffing requirements for ICUs may be inadequate compared with MedSurg units. Thus, there is a need to evaluate existing guidelines on ICU staffing.
The use of alternative irrigation and cropping systems in forage production may alleviate the water scarcity in semi‐arid regions
Authors: Baghdadi Amirsaleh , Golzardi Farid , Hashemi Masoud
Published: March 2023

BACKGROUND

Strategies to enhance the efficient use of irrigation water require a major shift in irrigation and cropping systems. It was hypothesized that (i) replacing water‐demanding crops such as corn silage with more drought‐tolerant forages species, (ii) adoption of intercropping instead of monoculture, and (iii) use of alternative irrigation methods, may alleviate the water shortage in semi‐arid regions, while producing high‐quality forage.

RESULTS

Adoption of drip irrigation (DRIP) and alternate furrow irrigation (AFI) reduced water consumption by 43% and 20%, respectively. Additionally, DRIP produced 11% more biomass than the conventional furrow irrigation. The intercropped ratio of 50% sorghum and 50% amaranth under DRIP maximized forage production and improved irrigation water‐use efficiency (IWUE). Principal component analysis indicated that the DRIP increased the dry matter yield and IWUE, whereas the AFI improved the forage quality. The intercropped ratio of 75% sorghum and 25% amaranth demonstrated the highest yield stability and was considered superior cropping system regardless of the irrigation strategies.

CONCLUSIONS

DRIP and AFI strategies were effective in reducing water consumption, with DRIP being the most water‐efficient method. Intercropping sorghum and amaranth at a ratio of 50:50 under DRIP resulted in the highest forage yield and IWUE. While sole amaranth had the highest forage quality, intercropping sorghum and amaranth increased dry matter production with better forage quality than sorghum monoculture. Overall, the combination of DRIP and intercropping sorghum and amaranth at a ratio of 50:50 considered as a suitable strategy for improving forage yield and quality, as well as IWUE. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Galectin‐3 and RAGE differentially control advanced glycation endproduct‐induced collagen damage in murine intervertebral disc organ culture
Authors: Gallate Zachary S. , D'Erminio Danielle N. , Nasser Philip , Laudier Damien M. , Iatridis James C.
Published: March 2023

Background

Back and neck pain are leading causes of global disability that are associated with intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration. Causes of IVD degeneration are multifactorial, and diet, age, and diabetes have all been linked to IVD degeneration. Advanced glycation endproducts (AGEs) accumulate in the IVD as a result of aging, diet, and diabetes, and AGE accumulation in the IVD has been shown to induce oxidative stress and catabolic activity that result in collagen damage. An association between AGE accumulation and IVD degeneration is emerging, yet mechanism behind this association remains unclear. The Receptor for AGEs (RAGE) is thought to induce catabolic responses in the IVD, and the AGE receptor Galectin 3 (Gal3) had a protective effect in other tissue systems but has not been evaluated in the IVD.

Methods

This study used an IVD organ culture model with genetically modified mice to analyze the roles of RAGE and Gal3 in an AGE challenge.

Results

Gal3 was protective against an AGE challenge in the murine IVD ex vivo, limiting collagen damage and biomechanical property changes. Gal3 receptor levels in the AF significantly decreased upon an AGE challenge. RAGE was necessary for AGE‐induced collagen damage in the IVD, and RAGE receptor levels in the AF significantly increased upon AGE challenge.

Discussion

These findings suggest both RAGE and Gal3 are important in the IVD response to AGEs and highlight Gal3 as an important receptor with protective effects on collagen damage. This research improves understanding the mechanisms of AGE‐induced IVD degeneration and suggests Gal3 receptor modulation as a potential target for preventative and therapeutic treatment for IVD degeneration.
Crossing of the Branch Cut: The Topological Origin of a Universal 2π‐Phase Retardation in Non‐Hermitian Metasurfaces
Authors: Colom Rémi , Mikheeva Elena , Achouri Karim , Zuniga‐Perez Jesus , Bonod Nicolas , Martin Olivier J. F. , Burger Sven , Genevet Patrice
Published: March 2023

Full wavefront control by photonic components requires that the spatial phase modulation on an incoming optical beam ranges from 0 to 2π. Because of their radiative coupling to the environment, all optical components are intrinsically non‐Hermitian systems, often described by reflection and transmission matrices with complex eigenfrequencies. Here, it is shown that parity or time symmetry breaking—either explicit or spontaneous—moves the position of zero singularities of the reflection or transmission matrices from the real axis to the upper part of the complex frequency plane. A universal 0 to 2π‐phase gradient of an output channel as a function of the real frequency excitation is thus realized whenever the discontinuity branch bridging a zero and a pole, that is, a pair of singularities, is crossing the real axis. This basic understanding is applied to engineer electromagnetic fields at interfaces, including, but not limited to, metasurfaces. Non‐Hermitian topological features associated with exceptional degeneracies or branch cut crossing are shown to play a surprisingly pivotal role in the design of resonant photonic systems.
Automated generation of comparator patients in the electronic medical record
Authors: Rigdon Joseph , Ostasiewski Brian , Woelfel Kamah , Wiseman Kimberly D. , Hetherington Tim , Downs Stephen , Kowalkowski Marc
Published: March 2023

Background

Well‐designed randomized trials provide high‐quality clinical evidence but are not always feasible or ethical. In their absence, the electronic medical record (EMR) presents a platform to conduct comparative effectiveness research, central to the emerging academic learning health system (aLHS) model. A barrier to realizing this vision is the lack of a process to efficiently generate a reference comparison group for each patient.

Objective

To test a multi‐step process for the selection of comparators in the EMR.

Materials and Methods

We conducted a mixed‐methods study within a large aLHS in North Carolina. We (1) created a list of 35 candidate variables; (2) surveyed 270 researchers to assess the importance of candidate variables; and (3) built consensus rankings around survey‐identified variables (ie, importance scores >7) across two panels of 7–8 clinical research experts. Prioritized algorithm inputs were collected from the EMR and applied using a greedy matching technique. Feasibility was measured as the percentage of patients with 100 matched comparators and performance was measured via computational time and Euclidean distance.

Results

Nine variables were selected: age, sex, race, ethnicity, body mass index, insurance status, smoking status, Charlson Comorbidity Index, and neighborhood percentage in poverty. The final process successfully generated 100 matched comparators for each of 1.8 million candidate patients, executed in less than 100 min for the majority of strata, and had average Euclidean distance 0.043.

Conclusion

EMR‐derived matching is feasible to implement across a diverse patient population and can provide a reproducible, efficient source of comparator data for observational studies, with additional testing in clinical research applications needed.
The impact of regional environmental regulations on digital transformation of energy companies: The moderating role of the top management team
Authors: Yu Feifei , Zhang Qing , Jiang Dong
Published: March 2023

How energy businesses undergo digital transformation is a critical topic in light of China's “dual carbon” strategy. Based on institutional theory, upper‐echelon theory, and managerial‐mindset solidification, this article examines how regional environmental regulation affects the digital transformation of energy enterprises from 2016 to 2021 and the moderating role of the top management team in this transformation. The empirical findings show that regional environmental regulations significantly promote the digital transformation of energy companies; however, the average age, education level, and average tenure of the top management team can negatively influence this effect. The results of this study also lead to recommendations on how government agencies and energy enterprises should undertake digital transformation.
Fundamental solutions of a class of degenerate elliptic equation
Authors: Baishemirov Zharasbek , Berdyshev Abdumauvlen , Hasanov Anvar
Published: March 2023

In this paper, for the elliptic equation with two lines of different order of degeneration, given in the first quarter of the plane
, four fundamental solutions are constructed that are expressed by Appell's hypergeometric functions
of two variables. By means the decomposition formula of the Appell's function in products of the Gauss hypergeometric function, it is proved that the constructed fundamental solutions possess a logarithmic singularity for
.
Lateral kinematic response of offshore pipe piles to S‐wave seismic excitation
Authors: Zheng Changjie , Luo Tong , Luan Lubao
Published: March 2023

This paper presents an analytical study on the lateral kinematic response of offshore pipe piles subjected to vertically propagating S‐wave seismic excitation. Both the kinematic interaction of the pipe pile with the soil and seawater are considered. The lateral resistances of the outer and inner soil are obtained based on the confined viscoelastic dynamic continuum models, while the hydrodynamic pressures of the seawater are based on the inviscid incompressible fluid theory. The pile response is then obtained by utilizing the continuity condition at the soil‐pile and seawater‐pile interfaces along the pile shaft. The derived solution is employed to investigate the sensitivity of the seismic response of pipe piles to certain key problem parameters, such as length of pile segment embedded in seawater, the relative stiffness of the pile and soil and the pile radius ratio. We demonstrate that the partially embedded piles are much more flexible compared with fully embedded piles when subjected to S‐wave excitation, resulting more strong motion transferred to the superstructures and the existence of seawater will amplify the seismic responses of offshore pipe piles.
A Bayesian inference approach for parametric identification through optimal control method
Authors: Bhattacharyya Mainak , Feissel Pierre
Published: March 2023

The objective of the research is to obtain deterministic and probabilistic resolution of material parameters from full field measurements of kinematic data acquired from digital image correlation. The deterministic inverse problem involves formulation of an optimal control approach where the complete knowledge of the boundary conditions and the measurement data are not required. The probabilistic framework inculcates this optimal control method in a Bayesian inference framework. A Markov chain Monte Carlo sampling method is applied to obtain the posterior probability density function, along with a radial basis function network for the numerical frugality of the samplings.
Communication about weight‐related issues with adult patients with obesity in general practice: A scoping review
Authors: Lindberg Cecilie Sonne , Sandbaek Annelli , Jensen Sissel Due , Meldgaard Bruun Jens , Andreassen Pernille
Published: March 2023

Background

Primary care providers see patients with obesity in general practice every day but may be challenged regarding communication about obesity. The research question of this study is: how do general practitioners and general practice staff and adult patients with obesity communicate about weight‐related issues?

Methods

A scoping review approach was used, searching PubMed, Scopus and CINAHL for peer‐reviewed studies – of both quantitative and/or qualitative study designs, and published between 2001 and 2021.

Results

Twenty articles were included. The weight‐related issues discussed were by far physical issues, and only one study mentioned psychosocial issues. Most of the included studies contained information on who initiates the communication, how the weight‐related issues are addressed and handled, and also obstacles and challenges in relation to the communication. The studies lacked information of when the weight‐related issues are addressed and differences in views and experiences when discussing weight‐related issues in general practice.

Conclusion

Studies with the main focus communication about obesity and overall health in general practice are needed. Findings also indicate, that non‐stigmatizing communication tools and guidelines are needed on this area to promote these types of conservations.
Gene therapy in sickle cell disease: Attitudes and informational needs of patients and caregivers
Authors: Sharma Akshay , Young Amanda , Carroll Yvonne , Darji Himani , Li Yimei , Mandrell Belinda N. , Nelson Marquita N. , Owens Curtis L. , Irvine Mary , Caples Mary , Jerkins Lauren P. , Unguru Yoram , Hankins Jane S. , Johnson Liza‐Marie
Published: March 2023

Background

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is an inherited blood disorder that results in serious morbidity and early mortality. Novel therapies for SCD, most notably genetic therapies (GTs) and HLA‐mismatched donor hematopoietic cell transplantation, are in clinical trials. While potentially curative, these interventions are some of the most intensive treatments for SCD and are associated with serious and life‐altering side effects, which may manifest several years after treatment. Little is known about knowledge, beliefs, and attitudes of individuals with SCD, or their caregivers, toward existing and these emerging therapies.

Methods

Patients with SCD at least 13 years of age (n = 66) and caregivers (n = 38) were surveyed about knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs surrounding treatments for SCD.

Results

Only 4.8% felt “extremely knowledgeable” about GT for SCD while the majority (63.4%) reported little knowledge. Overall, health literacy was low among respondents. Most respondents had a neutral attitude regarding the safety of GT for SCD, and whether it was a good treatment for the disorder (56.7% and 58.6%, respectively). Only a few respondents endorsed the idea that GT was “unsafe” or “not a good treatment” (5.8% and 4.8%, respectively). There was an association between increasing knowledge about GT and agreement that it is safe (p = .012) and a good treatment for SCD (p = .031).

Conclusions

Given that very few patients with SCD feel knowledgeable about GT and a majority have neutral feelings about the safety and utility of this new approach, culturally appropriate patient‐centered education is urgently needed as these treatments get regulatory approval and proceed to the clinic.
Using a six‐step co‐design model to rapidly respond to cancer carers support and information needs during a global pandemic
Authors: Santin Olinda , Liu Minchen , Kerr Helen , Ho Hien Thi , Manus Margaret Mc , Prue Gillian
Published: March 2023

Objectives

The COVID‐19 pandemic placed severe strain on cancer carers resulting in an urgent need for information and support.

Methods

The Santin 2019 6‐step co‐design model was used to rapidly modify an existing online cancer carers resource. Draft content of a COVID‐19 module was created via two workshops and six meetings with an expert advisory team (Step 1). This content was then produced into videoed testimonials (Step 2). A module prototype was reviewed by volunteers (Step 3) and modified based on feedback (Step 4). User‐testing occurred via two online feedback sessions (Step 5) and modifications were made (Step 6). All steps were audio recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed thematically.

Results

A COVID‐19 support, and information module was rapidly co‐designed by n = 45 stakeholders (n = 11 workshop 1 and 2 (3 carers/14 professionals), n = 6 advisory committee (1 carer/5 professionals), n = 4 video content (1 carer/3 professionals) and n = 24 feedback sessions (5 carers/19 professionals). The module contained vaccination information, infection control and how to manage the psychosocial impact of restrictions. Information was delivered in 4 short videos with links to up‐to‐date guidance and information services. Participants identified that the module included all key information for carers in an accessible and informative way. The use of videos was viewed as an emotive and reassuring.

Conclusions

During a global pandemic, cancer carers urgently required tailored information. Co‐designed online resources allow service providers to rapidly respond to emerging and unprecedented issues and provide urgent information and support.