bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chitosan‐Gelatin‐EGCG Nanoparticle‐Meditated LncRNA TMEM44‐AS1 Silencing to Activate the P53 Signaling Pathway for the Synergistic Reversal of 5‐FU Resistance in Gastric Cancer
Authors: Zhou Mi , Dong Jiaqi , Huang Junqing , Ye Wen , Zheng Zhousan , Huang Kangbo , Pan Yihui , Cen Junjie , Liang Yanping , Shu Guannan , Ye Sheng , Lu Xuanxuan , Zhang Jiaxing
Published: June 2022

Chemoresistance is one of the leading causes of therapeutic failure in gastric cancer (GC) treatment. Recent studies have shown lncRNAs play pivotal roles in regulating GC chemoresistance. Nanocarriers delivery of small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) to silence cancer‐related genes has become a novel approach to cancer treatment research. However, finding target genes and developing nanosystems capable of selectively delivering siRNAs for disease treatment remains a challenge. In this study, a novel lncRNA TMEM44‐AS1 that is related to 5‐FU resistance is identified. TMEM44‐AS1 has the ability to bind to and sponge miR‐2355‐5p, resulting in the upregulated PPP1R13L expression and P53 pathway inhibition. Next, a new nanocarrier called chitosan‐gelatin‐EGCG (CGE) is developed, which has a higher gene silencing efficiency than lipo2000, to aid in the delivery of a si‐TMEM44‐AS1 can efficiently silence TMEM44‐AS1 expression to synergistically reverse 5‐FU resistance in GC, leading to a markedly enhanced 5‐FU therapeutic effect in a xenograft mouse model of GC. These findings indicate that TMEM44‐AS1 may estimate 5‐FU therapy outcome among GC cases, and that systemic si‐TMEM44‐AS1 delivery combined with 5‐FU therapy is significant in the treatment of patients with recurrent GC.
Hierarchical Accumulation of Histone Variant H2A.Z Regulates Transcriptional States and Histone Modifications in Early Mammalian Embryos
Authors: Liu Xin , Zhang Jingjing , Zhou Jilong , Bu Guowei , Zhu Wei , He Hainan , Sun Qiaoran , Yu Zhisheng , Xiong Wenjing , Wang Liyan , Wu Danya , Dou Chengli , Yu Longtao , Zhou Kai , Wang Shangke , Fan Zhengang , Wang Tingting , Hu Ruifeng , Hu Taotao , Zhang Xia , Miao Yi‐Liang
Published: June 2022

Early embryos undergo extensive epigenetic reprogramming to achieve gamete‐to‐embryo transition, which involves the loading and removal of histone variant H2A.Z on chromatin. However, how does H2A.Z regulate gene expression and histone modifications during preimplantation development remains unrevealed. Here, by using ultra‐low‐input native chromatin immunoprecipitation and sequencing, the genome‐wide distribution of H2A.Z is delineated in mouse oocytes and early embryos. These landscapes indicate that paternal H2A.Z is removed upon fertilization, followed by unbiased accumulation on parental genomes during zygotic genome activation (ZGA). Remarkably, H2A.Z exhibits hierarchical accumulation as different peak types at promoters: promoters with double H2A.Z peaks are colocalized with H3K4me3 and indicate transcriptional activation; promoters with a single H2A.Z peak are more likely to occupy bivalent marks (H3K4me3+H3K27me3) and indicate development gene suppression; promoters with no H2A.Z accumulation exhibit persisting gene silencing in early embryos. Moreover, H2A.Z depletion changes the enrichment of histone modifications and RNA polymerase II binding at promoters, resulting in abnormal gene expression and developmental arrest during lineage commitment. Furthermore, similar transcription and accumulation patterns between mouse and porcine embryos indicate that a dual role of H2A.Z in regulating the epigenome required for proper gene expression is conserved during mammalian preimplantation development.
Tensile‐Strained RuO2 Loaded on Antimony‐Tin Oxide by Fast Quenching for Proton‐Exchange Membrane Water Electrolyzer
Authors: Huang Bing , Xu Hengyue , Jiang Nannan , Wang Minghao , Huang Jianren , Guan Lunhui
Published: June 2022

Future energy demands for green hydrogen have fueled intensive research on proton‐exchange membrane water electrolyzers (PEMWE). However, the sluggish oxygen evolution reaction (OER) and highly corrosive environment on the anode side narrow the catalysts to be expensive Ir‐based materials. It is very challenging to develop cheap and effective OER catalysts. Herein, Co‐hexamethylenetetramine metal–organic framework (Co‐HMT) as the precursor and a fast‐quenching method is employed to synthesize RuO2 nanorods loaded on antimony‐tin oxide (ATO). Physical characterizations and theoretical calculations indicate that the ATO can increase the electrochemical surface areas of the catalysts, while the tensile strains incorporated by quenching can alter the electronic state of RuO2. The optimized catalyst exhibits a small overpotential of 198 mV at 10 mA cm−2 for OER, and keeps almost unchanged after 150 h chronopotentiometry. When applied in a real PEMWE assembly, only 1.51 V is needed for the catalyst to reach a current density of 1 A cm−2.
Nanosheet‐templated graphene oxide membranes for fast molecule separation
Authors: Lin Zhen , Hu Chuan , Liu Qinglin , Zhang Qiugen
Published: June 2022

Intercalated laminar membrane with controllable interlayer spacing (d‐spacing) is one of the most effective membranes for fast molecule separation. In this work, we demonstrate a versatile strategy to create nanosheet‐templated water channels in laminar graphene oxide (GO) membranes. The 1.2 nm‐thick nickel hydroxide nanosheets as sacrificed intercalators provide a chance to control the d‐spacing. The resultant membranes have controllable channels and exhibit over six times higher water permeance than the unintercalated membrane. The 880 nm‐thick nanosheet‐templated GO (NST‐GO) membrane has accurate d‐spacing of about 1.14 nm and shows high water permeance of 120.3 L m−2 h−1 bar−1 and good molecule separation property, reflecting in high rejection for larger dyes (90.1% for erythrosine B [EB]), while low rejection for smaller dyes (58.3% for methylene blue [MB]). Furthermore, this strategy of intercalating and sacrificing nanosheets has higher potential than traditional intercalation in controlling d‐spacing of laminar membranes.
Experimental validation of multiphysics model simulations of the thermal response of a cement clinker rotary kiln at laboratory scale
Authors: Tabares Juan David , McGinley William M. , Druffel Thad L. , Bhagwat Bhagyashri Aditya
Published: June 2022

An increasing demand for buildings, transportation systems and civil infrastructure development has driven expansion of cement consumption world‐wide, producing a significant increase in related global energy demand. With approximately 7% of the world‐wide industrial energy consumption (10.7 exajoules [EJ]), the cement industry is the third most energy intensive industrial processes and a key component for concrete, the most consumed composite material in the global construction industry. In cement manufacturing, the cement kiln accounts for most of the energy consumption in the production process. As the heart of a cement plant, the cement kiln is where the kiln feed primarily containing calcium oxide (CaO), silica (SiO2), alumina (Al2O3), and iron (Fe2O3) are thermally and chemically transformed into clinker minerals. The presented work developed a multiphysics model, designed and built a laboratory‐scale rotary cement clinker kiln, and produced cement clinker at laboratory‐scale. The model was developed to study the interaction between the various thermal, fluid dynamic and chemical interactions involved in the sintering process used to form Portland cement clinker in an effort to reduce energy use. The analytical model was validated through experimental testing using a unique laboratory‐scale rotary cement kiln developed during the investigation. Also demonstrated was the feasibility of producing clinker at laboratory scale. This modeling and lab scale tests were designed to better understand the clinker sintering process so that operational and quality decisions can be made to optimize energy consumption without compromising cement clinker quality. The computational fluid dynamics modeling was developed in COMSOL Multiphysics 6.0. The characteristics of the combustion fluid flow, concentration of species, temperature and heat transfer were studied for a turbulent flow of methane (CH4) gas and oxygen (O2). Theory suggests that heat transfer impacts the cement production process but the multiphysics model more accurately describes the convection, conduction, and radiant heat transfer in the kilning process and thus allows for a better understanding of the energy exchange driving the chemical reactions that produce Portland cement. Clinker minerals were formed because of appropriate burning conditions implemented during experimental model validation.
Neuronal nitric oxide synthase and calbindin expression in sympathetic preganglionic neurons following capsaicin treatment
Authors: Porseva Valentina V. , Preobrazhensky Nikita D.
Published: June 2022

Along with well‐known data on the neurochemical mechanisms of nociceptor activation, there are still no clear data regarding changes in the cellular composition and morphological characteristics of spinal preganglionic neurons (SPN) after capsaicin treatment. The mechanism of capsaicin toxicity differs in developing and mature nerve cells. This study aimed to determine the number of SPN in the autonomic nuclei on spinal cord (SC) sections and their cross‐sectional area, the localization, percentage, and profile area of SPN containing neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) and calbindin (CB) in the thoracic SC of rats of different ages (from birth to 1‐year‐old) after capsaicin treatment. Neonatal capsaicin treatment generally decreased the cross‐sectional area of the SPN pericarya. However, the cross‐sectional area of the CB‐immunoreactive (IR) SPN increased in the central autonomic area in rats aged 10–30 days old after capsaicin treatment. The number of SPN decreased only in the central autonomic area of rats aged <20 days. The proportion of nNOS‐IR neurons remained steady and did not change during development. The cross‐sectional area of nNOS‐IR SPN in capsaicin‐treated rats was less than that in control rats. The results obtained will promote further studies on the mechanisms of sensory processing in the SC and the development of the sympathetic nervous system.
Long‐term changes in spatially coherent extreme precipitation systems over Central India
Authors: Gupta Anu , Takahashi Hiroshi G.
Published: June 2022

The present study examined extreme rainfall events (EREs) in central India during the summer monsoon season, focusing on their spatial characteristics. A station‐based gridded and a station‐satellite‐blended dataset was used to examine long‐term and recent variations in precipitation characteristics for 50 years (1951–2000) and 38 years (1981–2018), respectively. A precipitation system approach (PSA) was applied to identify the ERE precipitation systems and categorized spatial sizes of ERE systems into three categories: sporadic, intermediate, and massive ERE precipitation systems. Conventionally, the ERE frequency is equal to the total number of ERE grids, whereas PSA counts ERE systems. The sporadic precipitation grid contributes 42% of all the ERE grids, and sporadic EREs frequency increases in the long‐term. The long‐term trend of intermediate and massive EREs does not increase and quite sharply increases, respectively, and these EREs are also intensifying. Recent 38 years have shown a reverse in the trends of ERE characteristics, the frequency and intensity of intermediate and massive EREs have decreased, whereas the massive ERE systems are broadening.
Low‐dose aspirin use and colorectal cancer survival in 32,195 patients—A national cohort study
Authors: Shahrivar Mehrnoosh , Weibull Caroline E. , Ekström Smedby Karin , Glimelius Bengt , Syk Ingvar , Matthiessen Peter , Nordenvall Caroline , Martling Anna
Published: June 2022

Background

Results from previous studies indicate that use of aspirin may improve colorectal cancer (CRC) survival. The aim of this study was to assess whether use of aspirin influences overall survival or CRC‐specific survival in an unselected cohort of patients diagnosed with CRC.

Methods

The study was performed using the Colorectal Cancer Data Base Sweden (CRCBaSe), a mega‐linkage originating from the Swedish Colorectal Cancer Register, with additional linkages to other national health care registers. All patients diagnosed with primary CRC stage I–III treated with curative surgery, aged 18–85 years at diagnosis, from 2007 through 2016 were identified. Information on low‐dose aspirin use was extracted from the Swedish Prescribed Drug Register. Exposure was defined as dispensed prescription for at least 6 months. Aspirin exposure was analyzed at the time of surgery (yes/no) and as a time‐varying exposure during follow‐up. Follow‐up was restricted to a maximum 6 years, to model 5‐year survival. Cox regression models were fitted to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Adjustments were performed for sex, age, year of diagnosis, Charlson comorbidity index, hypertension, and ASA score as potential confounders.

Results

A total of 32,195 patients diagnosed with CRC were included. 6764 (21%) were exposed to aspirin at the time of CRC surgery. The median time of follow‐up was 4.2 years. Aspirin use at the time of surgery was not associated with all‐cause (adjusted HR = 1.03, 95% CI: 0.97–1.08) nor CRC‐specific mortality (adjusted HR = 0.99, 95% CI: 0.91–1.07). Aspirin use during follow‐up was associated with increased all‐cause (adjusted HR = 1.09, 95% CI: 1.04–1.15) but not CRC‐specific mortality (adjusted HR = 0.98, 95% CI: 0.91–1.06). A CRC‐specific effect associated with aspirin was noted from approximately 3 years following surgery.

Conclusions

In this large nation‐wide cohort study there was no convincing association between aspirin use after CRC and OS or CRC‐specific survival.
Guided protocol for indirect fabrication of a custom provisional restoration prior to immediate implant surgery in the esthetic zone
Authors: Vargas Sarah M. , Dimalanta Walter G. , Johnson Thomas M.
Published: June 2022

Background

Delivery of a high‐quality provisional restoration at a maxillary anterior immediate implant site enhances patient‐centered outcomes and promotes development of favorable hard and soft tissue architecture. The purpose of this report is to present a protocol relying upon compatible guided surgery and laboratory systems for fabrication of a custom provisional crown prior to immediate implant surgery in the esthetic zone.

Methods and Results

A female patient, aged 33 years, presented to the Army Postgraduate Dental School, Fort Gordon, Georgia, with an unfavorable prognosis for tooth #9. The patient elected extraction with immediate implant placement. Prior to the surgery, we utilized a cone‐beam computed tomography volume, stone models, implant planning software, and an implant indexing system to fabricate a custom provisional crown. Following extraction of tooth #9 and immediate implant placement, the provisional crown exhibited excellent fit and finish, requiring virtually no chairside adjustment. We noted minimal change in baseline mucosal contours throughout the healing phase.

Conclusion

The clinical/restorative protocol described in this report assured accurate three‐dimensional implant positioning and permitted indirect fabrication of a high‐quality custom provisional crown in advance of surgery. The laboratory workflow—which dental technicians/auxiliaries can master—has the potential to shorten surgery, enhance treatment outcomes, and increase patient satisfaction.

Key points

Why is this case new information?

This report provides a stepwise workflow guiding indirect fabrication of a custom provisional crown prior to immediate implant placement.

What are the keys to successful management of this case?

The described technique requires compatible laboratory and guided surgery systems to assure that the restoration accounts for the three‐dimensional position and timing of the implant.

What are the primary limitations to success in this case?

Dental technicians/auxiliaries can master this protocol and independently produce high‐quality provisional implant restorations under supervision, potentially enhancing practice efficiency. However, practitioners should provide adequate staff training to optimize reliability and quality.
Insulin resistance and beta‐cell dysfunction in newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes: Expression, aggregation and predominance. Verona Newly Diagnosed Type 2 Diabetes Study 10
Authors: Bonora Enzo , Trombetta Maddalena , Dauriz Marco , Brangani Corinna , Cacciatori Vittorio , Negri Carlo , Pichiri Isabella , Stoico Vincenzo , Rinaldi Elisabetta , Da Prato Giuliana , Boselli Maria Linda , Santi Lorenza , Moschetta Federica , Zardini Monica , Bonadonna Riccardo C.
Published: June 2022

Aims

We investigated quantitative expression, mutual aggregation and relation with hyperglycemia of insulin resistance (IR) and beta‐cell dysfunction (BCD) in newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes.

Methods

We assessed IR with euglycemic hyperinsulinemic clamp and BCD with modelled glucose/C‐peptide response to oral glucose in 729 mostly drug‐naïve patients. We measured glycated hemoglobin, pre‐prandial, post‐prandial and meal‐related excursion of blood glucose.

Results

IR was found in 87.8% [95% confidence intervals 85.4–90.2] and BCD in 90.0% [87.8–92.2] of subjects, ranging from mild to moderate or severe. Approximately 20% of subjects had solely one defect: BCD 10.8% [8.6–13.1] or IR 8.6% [6.6–10.7]. Insulin resistance and BCD aggregated in most subjects (79.1% [76.2–82.1]). We arbitrarily set nine possible combinations of mild, moderate or severe IR and mild, moderate or severe BCD, finding that each had a similar frequency (∼10%). In multiple regression analyses parameters of glucose control were related more strongly with BCD than with IR.

Conclusions

In newly‐diagnosed type 2 diabetes, IR and BCD are very common with a wide range of expression but no specific pattern of aggregation. Beta‐cell dysfunction is likely to play a greater quantitative role than IR in causing/sustaining hyperglycemia in newly‐diagnosed type 2 diabetes.
A new approach based on moving least square method for calculating the Weibull coefficients
Authors: Kaplan Ayse Gul
Published: June 2022

In this study, the graphical method, which is widely used to find the coefficients of the Weibull distribution function (WDF), has been improved by using the moving least squares approximation (MLSA) replace least squares method (LSM). The accuracy of the results obtained by the moving least squares method is shown by two different error analysis tests. In order to implement this method, Osmaniye region, which is rich in wind potential maintenance, has been selected. The root mean square error (RMSE) and mean percentage error (MPE) are used to compare the efficiency of proposed method. In this study, the results of the graphical method developed by the MLSA were compared monthly and yearly with the results obtained according to the least squares method. It was observed that the results of the proposed method in the two error analysis tests were much better. Also, the mean wind speed and average wind power values of the selected region were calculated with the coefficients found by MLSA. These calculated values were compared with actual values.
A network analysis in adolescent anorexia nervosa exploring the connection between both patient and carer reactions and outcome
Authors: Monteleone Alessio Maria , Cascino Giammarco , Salerno Laura , Schmidt Ulrike , Micali Nadia , Cardi Valentina , Treasure Janet
Published: June 2022

Objective

This paper used network analysis to test the associations between eating disorder‐related psychopathology and carers’ responses to anorexia nervosa symptoms in adolescents. Additionally, the prognostic value of central and bridge network nodes was explored.

Method

This is a secondary analysis of a three‐armed randomised‐controlled‐trial of adolescents with anorexia nervosa (n = 149) and their primary carer (n = 149) who were allocated to either treatment as usual (TAU), or one of two versions of a carer skills intervention (ECHO) added to TAU. A network analysis was run in the full sample. The prognostic role of central and bridge nodes was tested through multiple regression analyses.

Results

Carers’ depression and emotional over‐involvement, as well as patients' depression showed the highest strength centrality. Patients' depression and carers’ accommodation exhibited the highest bridge expected influence. Across the full sample, and in the ECHO group, carers’ accommodation predicted patients' higher body mass index (BMI), while patients' depression predicted worse psychosocial functioning at 1‐year follow‐up. In the ECHO group, higher carers’ depression also predicted lower BMI.

Conclusions

Carers’ accommodation and depression in both carers and patients were involved in the maintenance of psychopathology in adolescents with anorexia nervosa. Depression in both patients and carers is a potential treatment target for family interventions.
Experimental study on the evolution law of mining‐induced fractures and deformation rock mass structure of gently inclined layered slope
Authors: Qingmiao Li , Jianjun Zhao , Jianle Yu , Lin Chen , Qiyi Lai , Jie Deng , Jianhui Dong , Yaoqiang Zhu
Published: June 2022

Landslide induced by underground mining is the main type of geological disaster in Guizhou Province. The spatial position of the mined‐out area is the key factor affecting the deformation evolution of mining landslides. Three typical mining‐induced slopes in western Guizhou Province are selected to establish the engineering geological model. The orthogonal experimental design is carried out with the position of the mined‐out area relative to the slope shoulder (PM) and the slope height (SH) as variables, and the discrete element simulation test is carried out. The influence of the two variables on the evolution of overlying strata fractures and the structure of slope surface deformed rock mass is analyzed by gray relational method. The results show that under the effect of mining, the overlying strata rock on the mined‐out area gradually collapses and produces cracks through the surface. The force chain arch gradually develops from the lower part to the surface rock layer, and the slope surface rock layer is transformed from a cantilever beam embedded at one end to a multisegment articulated beam. Depending on the number of segments of the articulated beam structure, it can be divided into three categories, and the rock mass where the slope collapse occurs is mainly concentrated at the end of the multisegment articulated beam. The central subsidence of the subsidence basin, the length of the end of the articulated beam, the position of the fulcrum, and the rotation angle of the beam structure are the key indicators affecting the stability of the multisegment articulated beam. Gray relational analysis shows that PM is the primary factor to control the output of these indicators. The multiple linear regression model of gray relational degree between PM and SH was constructed, and the prediction formula of gray relational grade was obtained, which realized the multiobjective prediction of the overlying strata rock structure model under the same slope parameters. The results provide the theoretical basis for disaster prevention and mitigation of gently inclined layered mining slopes.
Spatio‐temporal assessment of greenhouse gas emission from rapeseed production in China by coupling nutrient flows model with LCA approach
Authors: Guo Chaoyi , Bai Zhaohai , Wang Xiaozhong , Zhang Wushuai , Chen Xuanjing , Lakshmanan Prakash , Ma Lin , Lu Jianwei , Liu Bin , Shi Xiaojun , Chen Xinping
Published: June 2022

Rapeseed (Brassica napus L.) production experienced a considerable increase during the past decades, and there is growing concern about how to realize the dual objectives of meeting the increasing demand for rapeseed and reducing the associated greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Most reported studies on crop‐sourced GHG emissions to date were aimed at optimizing crop management to reduce emission, but often without a detailed spatio‐temporal assessment of GHG emissions for layout management practices. Herein, we used a newly developed modelling approach that integrates the NUtrient Flows in food chains, Environment, and Resource use (NUFER) model with a dynamic reactive nitrogen (Nr) loss module for rapeseed and Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) approach to assess the GHG emissions from rapeseed production in China, where produces 18% of the world's rapeseed. Results showed that the GHG emissions from rapeseed production in China increased by 1.90% yearly from 2004 to 2018, largely due to increased inputs of agricultural materials, especially diesel. Further, carbon footprints of rapeseed production were found vary greatly between production regions, due to diverse climatic conditions, field management practices and the level of mechanization. Scenario analysis showed that adoption of both optimized nutrient and layout management practice is required to mitigate the current resource and environmental burdens, and to achieve edible oil security. Thus, our study provides new insights for policymakers on the formulation of management practices to reduce crop‐sourced GHG emissions, going along with an increase of food demand in the future.
Estimation of biomass and carbon sequestration capacity of the Surra mountain plantation forest in Gamo Highlands, Southern Ethiopia
Authors: Mada Genesha , Anjulo Agena , Gelaw Abren
Published: June 2022

This study was aimed at estimating the carbon sequestration potential of the Surra planted forest on Gughe massive of the Gamo highlands in Southern Ethiopia based on tree species type. The plantation was established on degrading pasture land in the mid‐1980s during the golden era of plantation forest expansion history in Ethiopia. The Surra plantation forest was stratified upon three tree species namely E. globulus, C. lusitanica, and P. radiata. The data were collected from 32 sample plots (20 E. globulus, 10 C.lusitanica, and 2 P. radiata plots, each having 10 m*10 m in size), and were laid at random at the inner part of the plantation. The Species‐specific allometric equations and the pan‐tropical allometric model were used to estimate the aboveground biomass and carbon stock of the forest. The average “tree height,” “diameter at breast height,” and “tree stand density” per hectare were the highest for C. lusitanica and the lowest for E. globulus (except the wood density). The wood‐specific density/g/cm3 was the largest for E. globulus. The average carbon sequestered in C. lusitanica (53.9 ton/ha) was significantly larger than E. globulus (35.6 ton/ha) and P. radiata (43.8 ton/ha). The estimated average carbon stock/ha of eucalyptus was the lowest due to its low stand density caused by illegal encroachment for construction, energy, and cash income purposes. The total dry biomass and carbon sequestrated are determined by area proportion; hence, eucalyptus covered an extensive area accounting for slightly less than two‐thirds of the total Surra plantation forest followed by Cupressus. The mean carbon stock (40.3 ton/ha) of the Surra plantation is lower compared with many plantation forest stock values under better management. The findings revealed that the significant variation in carbon stock with other forests despite the similarities in age, climate, location, and aspect was the result of encroachment, illegal cutting, frequent grazing, and limited protection, and call for policy attention from the Ethiopian government.
Evaluation of crop productivity, water and nitrogen use, and carbon footprint of summer peanut ‐ winter wheat cropping systems in the North China Plain
Authors: Nie Jiangwen , Wang Xiquan , Ma Shoutian , Zhang Kai , Zhang Xiangqian , Zhao Jie , Zang Huadong , Yang Yadong , Zeng Zhaohai
Published: June 2022

The introduction of legumes into the cropping system has been considered as an effective and alternative way to reduce nitrogen (N) input and greenhouse gas (GHG) emission, and boost system productivity. However, the productivity, water and N use, and carbon emission of legume‐based cropping systems in the North China Plain were not well‐documented. Here, a 2‐year field experiment was conducted to compare the yield, water and N use, and carbon footprint (CF) of summer peanut–winter wheat (PW) and summer maize–winter wheat (MW) cropping systems. Results showed that the experimental year significantly affected system productivity and water use efficiency of PW and MW. PW increased annual equivalent yield and water consumption by 10.1% and 12.9% in the first year (p < 0.05), compared with MW. Yet, PW decreased annual net income by 8.6% on average during the two experimental years. PW lowered annual N input by 12.1% compared with MW; however, no significant difference in apparent N use efficiency was found between PW and MW. Moreover, PW decreased its annual CF by 13.0%, which was attributed to the lower indirect GHGs emission from N input of summer peanut. In summary, PW showed considerable potential in reducing N fertilizer input and CF, with acceptable economic loss and water consumption in the North China Plain.
Introducing online training for health staff: An institutional perspective
Authors: Chrysantina Aprisa , Sæbø Johan Ivar , Kaasbøll Jens Johan
Published: June 2022

Online training has been gaining popularity for its flexibility and cost‐efficiency. Its introduction challenges existing practices of in‐service training which are mostly in the form of onsite training. Based on a participative, interpretive case study, we conceptualized in‐service training as an institution, examining how the introduction of online training affected changes to the in‐service training practices. Our research investigates three modes of in‐service training; onsite training, self‐paced online course, and synchronized online training. Two conflicting institutional logics that are associated with the first two modes of training emerge; onsite training logic and online training logic. The in‐service training institution in Indonesia remained stable despite changes in technology used and the covid pandemic. The logic of onsite training continued to be dominant throughout the period, and most training practices in onsite training were carried over to the online training without reflections.
Stratification of burnout in health‐system pharmacists during the COVID‐19 pandemic: A focus on the ambulatory care pharmacist
Authors: McQuade Brianna M. , Keller Eden , Elmes Abigail , DiDomenico Robert J. , Jarrett Jennie B.
Published: June 2022

Introduction

Burnout is defined as high emotional exhaustion and depersonalization, and low personal accomplishment from work. Prevalence of burnout among health‐system and ambulatory care pharmacists is unknown during the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Objectives

The purpose of this research is to analyze burnout prevalence among health‐system pharmacists (HSPs) and ambulatory care pharmacists (ACPs) using the Oldenburg Burnout Inventory and Maslach Burnout Inventory.

Methods

An electronic survey was sent to HSPs at two academic health systems in Chicago, IL. Demographics, risk of burnout based on two validated assessments (the Oldenburg Burnout Inventory [OLBI] and the Maslach Burnout Inventory [MBI]), burnout contributors, burnout mitigation strategies, and change in burnout due to COVID‐19 were collected. Burnout was defined as meeting any one criterion for high burnout on the following dimensions: exhaustion score and disengagement on the OLBI, and emotional exhaustion and depersonalization on the MBI. The co‐primary outcomes were the prevalence of burnout among HSPs, and the comparison of ACP burnout to that of non‐ambulatory HSPs. Secondary outcomes were comparison of burnout between the OLBI and MBI assessments, conceptualization of the causes and contributors of burnout and mitigation strategies among HSPs, and the self‐perceived effect of COVID‐19 on burnout severity.

Results

Of the 113 pharmacists included in the study, HSP burnout prevalence as defined above was 87.6%, ACP burnout was 88.4%, and non‐ambulatory HSP burnout was 87.1%. There was no statistical difference between ACP and non‐ambulatory HSP burnout prevalence, either overall or in any specific burnout dimension. The OLBI and MBI captured similar rates of burnout. The commonly reported burnout causes were staffing and scheduling issues, precepting requirements, and patient needs. Participants' most reported coping strategies were spending time with family/friends, sleep, exercise, and recreational/relaxation activities. A majority of HSPs (78.2%) reported higher levels of burnout due to COVID‐19.

Conclusion

HSP burnout during COVID‐19 pandemic is higher than cited in the pre‐COVID literature. Individual coping strategies are poor buffers for work‐related burnout.
New chitosan modified with epichlohydrin and bidentate Schiff base applied to removal of Pb2+ and Cd2+ ions
Authors: Jasim Saade Abdalkareem , Hachem Kadda , Abed Hussein Shaymaa , Turki Jalil Abduladheem , Hameed Noora M. , Dehno Khalaji Aliakbar
Published: June 2022

In this study, modified chitosan with epichlohydrin and bidentate Schiff base ligand (CEP) was successfully synthesized and characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), X‐ray powderdiffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). In addition, its removal ability of Pb2+ and Cd2+ ions was studied and the effect of various parameters such as pH solution, sorbent dose, and contact time on the adsorption of Pb2+ and Cd2+ ions were investigated and optimized. At optimal conditions (pH of 5, contact time of 90 min, 40 ppm of Pb2+, Cd2+ concentration, and 0.02 g of CEP), the maximum removal percentage of Pb2+ and Cd2+ ions was found to be 95 and 79%, respectively. The adsorption process followed the second‐order kinetic model for Pb(II) and the first‐order kinetic model for Cd(II). In addition, the effect of interface ions was investigated and it was found that the presence of divalent cations only affected the adsorption of Pb(II) and Cd(II) using CEP. Finally, the CEP adsorbent has undergone five regeneration experiments and adsorption efficiency was reduced by about 9 and 12% for Pb(II) and Cd(II) ions, respectively. Results show that the CEP has great potential for the removal of other heavy metal ions as a facile, eco‐friendly, and low‐cost adsorbent.
Ultrasound assisted synthesis of 5–7 membered heterocyclic rings in organic molecules
Authors: Shabir Ghulam , Shafique Imran , Saeed Aamer
Published: June 2022

Ultrasound synthesis is a powerful technique that is being used increasingly to accelerate organic reactions as a green synthetic approach. Ultrasonication has offered advantages over conventional methods in terms of enhanced yields, shorter reaction time, high selectivity and minimal side reaction. The current investigation is the review of papers published from 2016 to 2022 for the synthesis of organic heterocycles under the effect of ultrasound irradiation. It is a comprehensive compilation of sonochemical processes as a versatile technique to achieve synthesis of numerous organic scaffolds from simple carbocyclic compounds to complex and biologically active heterocyclic structural molecules. This review encompasses the examples of ultrasound supported synthetic reactions of multicomponent one pot processes as well as different steps flow synthesis. Ultrasound assisted synthesis have been proved as an eco‐friendly and benign approach for the synthesis of 5–7 membered heterocyclic rings, with one to three hetero atoms. Moreover Ultrasound synthesis has offered excellent yield in a vast majority of reactions under mild conditions without involving complicated purification procedures.
Climatology of cyclones in western and northwestern Iran using reanalysis and remote sensing data
Authors: Ghasemifar Elham , Hardy Sam , Minaei Masoud
Published: June 2022

Agriculture and hydrological management in western and northwestern Iran is highly sensitive to precipitation associated with Mediterranean and Sudanese cyclones particularly during spring and winter. Although many studies have focused on the theoretical basis of these cyclones, statistical analyses, especially with satellite observations, have not been undertaken. In this study, 40 cyclones during all months of 2015–2021 are characterized using data collected by Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) dual‐frequency precipitation radar (DPR), Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) Multisatellite Precipitation Analysis (TMPA) and ERA5 reanalysis within each cyclone quadrant. The results show that about 45% of cyclones have a lifetime between 1 and 2 days, and approximately 25% occur during April with a secondary peak in March (22.5%). Accordingly, cyclonic rainy days and rainfall amounts peak in April with values of 76.1% and 64.1%, respectively. The lowest (most negative) low‐ and mid‐tropospheric vertical velocity in the southeast and northeast quadrants indicates upward motion, which leads to the most intense latent heat release within the cyclone. Accordingly, the highest rainfall rates occur in the southeast and northeast quadrants, located within and ahead of the highest specific humidity quadrant (southeast) where the warm conveyor belt plays a significant role for rainfall formation. Maximum stratiform and convective rainfall rates are observed in the southwest and southeast quadrants, respectively. The distribution of rainfall rate is consistent with that of the storm‐top height pattern in all quadrants. The maximum percentage of warm rain to the total rain (34.6% on average) for both stratiform and convective precipitation falls in the southeast quadrant. The structure of these analysed cyclones is largely similar to that shown previously in the literature. According to the analysed rainfall in different life cycles, it is expected that the cyclones have the greatest impact (i.e., extreme rainfall) during the developing stage in the northeast and southeast quadrants, and during the mature stage in the southwest quadrant. The lowest influence is during the dissipating stage. The results from this study can help decision makers within the hydrological and risk management industries.
Spontaneous or Deliberate: The Dual Influence of Mind Wandering on Creative Incubation
Authors: Yang Tianchen , Wu Guohong
Published: June 2022

Two experiments examined the dual influence of mind wandering (MW) on the incubation of both deliberate and spontaneous modes of creativity. Specifically, using a modified version of Sustained Attention Response Task as the incubation task, this study assessed whether taking a break from a creative task and engaging in either an MW‐allowed task or an MW‐prevented task can exert differential effects on different aspects of creativity. Results showed that after engaging in an incubation task that allowed MW rather than prevented MW, participants generated ideas more flexibly but less persistently in the subsequent divergent thinking tasks, and were more likely to solve creative insight problems through intuitive insight but not systematic analysis. The results suggest that MW during incubation may simultaneously facilitate the spontaneous mode of creativity while suppressing the deliberate mode of creativity. These findings also indicate that creativity must be parsed into different subtypes in order to identify more specific ways to enhance creativity.
Fermentation of soymilk by Lactobacillus acidipiscis isolated from Chinese stinky tofu capable of efficiently biotransforming isoflavone glucosides to dihydrodaidzein and dihydrogenistein
Authors: Guo Xia , Zang Xuan , Dou Shi‐Juan , Wang Dong‐Yun , Wang Xiu‐Ling
Published: June 2022

BACKGROUND

The soy isoflavone microbial metabolites dihydrodaidzein (DHD), dihydrogenistein (DHG), equol and 5‐hydroxy‐equol are generally more biologically active than their precursors daidzein and genistein. Bacteria responsible for isoflavone metabolism have been isolated and identified. Fermented soymilk is a potential functional food; however, there are few lactic acid bacteria capable of metabolizing soy isoflavones.

RESULTS

A newly isolated Gram‐positive facultative anaerobic bacterium, which was named Lactobacillus acidipiscis HAU‐FR7, was isolated from the traditional Chinese fermented soy product ‘stinky tofu’. Bacterium strain HAU‐FR7 can grow under aerobic conditions and can also convert most of the daidzin and genistin in soymilk into DHD and DHG, respectively. The concentrations of DHD and DHG produced were 183 and 134 μmol L−1, respectively, after fermentation for 24 h. Strain HAU‐FR7 does not produce the biogenic amines cadaverine, putrescine, histamine or tyramine, and an antibiotic susceptibility test showed that HAU‐FR7 is sensitive to nine of the ten tested antibiotics, except for vancomycin. Moreover, the 1,1‐diphenyl‐2‐ picrylhydrazyl free radical scavenging capacity of soymilk fermented with HAU‐FR7 was significantly higher than that of unfermented soymilk.

CONCLUSION

A facultative anaerobic lactic acid bacterium, designated Lactobacillus acidipiscis HAU‐FR7, is capable of reducing the soy isoflavone glucosides daidzin and genistin in soymilk to DHD and DHG efficiently, even in the presence of atmospheric oxygen. The biotransformation activity of HAU‐FR7 grown in soymilk is higher than that in de Man–Rogosa–Sharpe liquid culture medium. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
A multi‐institutional evaluation of small field output factor determination following the recommendations of IAEA/AAPM TRS‐483
Authors: Lechner Wolfgang , Alfonso Rodolfo , Arib Mehenna , Huq M. Saiful , Ismail Anas , Kinhikar Rajesh , Lárraga‐Gutiérrez José M. , Mani Karthick Raj , Maphumulo Nkosingiphile , Sauer Otto A , Shoeir Shaima , Suriyapee Sivalee , Christaki Karen
Published: June 2022

Purpose

The aim of this work was to test the implementation of small field dosimetry following TRS‐483 and to develop quality assurance procedures for the experimental determination of small field output factors (SFOFs).

Materials and methods

Twelve different centers provided SFOFs determined with various detectors. Various linac models using the beam qualities 6 MV and 10 MV with flattening filter and without flattening filter were utilized to generate square fields down to a nominal field size of 0.5 cm × 0.5 cm. The detectors were positioned at 10 cm depth in water. Depending on the local situation, the source‐to‐surface distance was either set to 90 cm or 100 cm. The SFOFs were normalized to the output of the 10 cm × 10 cm field. The spread of SFOFs measured with different detectors was investigated for each individual linac beam quality and field size. Additionally, linac‐type specific SFOF curves were determined for each beam quality and the SFOFs determined using individual detectors were compared to these curves. Example uncertainty budgets were established for a solid state detector and a micro ionization chamber.

Results

The spread of SFOFs for each linac and field was below 5% for all field sizes. With the exception of one linac‐type, the SFOFs of all investigated detectors agreed within 10% with the respective linac‐type SFOF curve, indicating a potential inter‐detector and inter‐linac variability.

Conclusion

Quality assurance on the SFOF measurements can be done by investigation of the spread of SFOFs measured with multiple detectors and by comparison to linac‐type specific SFOFs. A follow‐up of a measurement session should be conducted if the spread of SFOFs is larger than 5%, 3%, and 2% for field sizes of 0.5 cm × 0.5 cm, 1 cm × 1 cm, and field sizes larger than 2 cm × 2 cm, respectively. Additionally, deviations of measured SFOFs to the linac‐type‐curves of more than 7%, 3%, and 2% for field sizes 0.5 cm × 0.5 cm, 1 cm × 1 cm, and field sizes larger than 1 cm × 1 cm, respectively, should be followed up.
Spot‐scanning hadron arc (SHArc) therapy: A proof of concept using single‐ and multi‐ion strategies with helium, carbon, oxygen, and neon ions
Authors: Mein Stewart , Kopp Benedikt , Tessonnier Thomas , Liermann Jakob , Abdollahi Amir , Debus Jürgen , Haberer Thomas , Mairani Andrea
Published: June 2022

Purpose

To present particle arc therapy treatments using single and multi‐ion therapy optimization strategies with helium (4He), carbon (12C), oxygen (16O), and neon (20Ne) ion beams.

Methods and materials

An optimization procedure and workflow were devised for spot‐scanning hadron arc therapy (SHArc) treatment planning in the PRECISE (PaRticle thErapy using single and Combined Ion optimization StratEgies) treatment planning system (TPS). Physical and biological beam models were developed for helium, carbon, oxygen, and neon ions via FLUKA MC simulation. SHArc treatments were optimized using both single‐ion (12C, 16O, or 20Ne) and multi‐ion therapy (16O+4He or 20Ne+4He) applying variable relative biological effectiveness (RBE) modeling using a modified microdosimetric kinetic model (mMKM) with (α/β)x values of 2, 5, and 3.1 Gy, respectively, for glioblastoma, pancreatic adenocarcinoma, and prostate adenocarcinoma patient cases. Dose, effective dose, linear energy transfer (LET), and RBE were computed with the GPU‐accelerated dose engine FRoG and dosimetric/biophysical attributes were evaluated in the context of conventional particle and photon‐based therapies (e.g., volumetric modulated arc therapy [VMAT]).

Results

All SHArc plans met the target optimization goals (3GyRBE) and demonstrated increased target conformity and substantially lower low‐dose bath to surrounding normal tissues than VMAT. SHArc plans using a singleion species (12C, 16O, or 20Ne) exhibited favorable LET distributions with the highest‐LET components centralized in the target volume, with values ranging from ∼80–170 keV/μm, ∼130–220 keV/μm, and ∼180–350 keV/μm for 12C, 16O, or 20Ne, respectively, exceeding mean target LET of conventional particle therapy (12C:∼55, 16O:∼75 20Ne:∼95 keV/μm). Multi‐ion therapy with SHArc delivery (SHArcMIT) provided a similar level of target LET enhancement as SHArc compared to conventional planning, however, with additional benefits of homogenous physical dose and RBE distributions.

Conclusion

Here, we demonstrate that arc delivery of light and heavy ion beams, using either a single‐ion species (12C, 16O, or 20Ne) or combining two ions in a single fraction (16O+4He or 20Ne+4He) affords enhanced physical and biological distributions (e.g., LET) compared with conventional delivery with photons or particle beams. SHArc marks the first single‐ and multi‐ion arc therapy treatment optimization approach using light and heavy ions.
Coping strategies in patients undergoing surgery treatment for pituitary tumour in China: A cross‐sectional survey
Authors: Wu Chao , Xu Lan , Zhang Haiying , Mao Youqin , Wang Zhong
Published: June 2022

Aim

To explore the coping strategies and corresponding influence factors in patients undergone surgeries for pituitary tumours.

Design

A cross‐sectional study.

Methods

Patients diagnosed with pituitary tumours were included. The Medical Coping Questionnaire (MCMQ) and a demographic questionnaire were used for data collection.

Results

A total of 150 patients with pituitary tumour undergoing surgery treatment were included. Compared with the a‐select sample, patients with pituitary tumours reported more avoidant coping (p < .0001) and more resigned coping (p = .031) but less confrontation coping (p = .026). Multiple regression analysis showed the regardless of recurrence or not, the type and size of pituitary tumour, education level, family income are the factors influencing the coping style (all p < .05).

Conclusions

Clinical workers should pay more attention to the patients with multiplied pituitary tumour, huge adenoma, recurred tumour, low levels of education and low monthly income.