bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Magnesia‐carbon refractories from recycled materials
Authors: Moritz Kirsten , Dudczig Steffen , Endres Hans Georg , Herzog Daniel , Schwarz Matthias , Schöttler Leandro , Veres Daniel , Aneziris Christos G.
Published: January 2022

Recycling of used refractories – in particular closed‐loop recycling – gains in importance because of both ecological and economic benefits, such as the conservation of natural resources, reduced landfilling, and the reduction of greenhouse gases and energy consumption. In this work, the use of a magnesia‐carbon (MgO‐C) recyclate for the production of MgO‐C refractories is investigated. Using fused magnesia, the mentioned MgO‐C recyclate, graphite, novolak, and a modified coal tar pitch, test specimens with different recyclate contents (0, 40, 65, and 82 wt%) were prepared on a laboratory scale. The apparent porosity, which is usually higher in recyclate‐based refractories than in recyclate‐free ones, increased by 14% from the specimens made exclusively from virgin raw materials to those made from the mixture containing 82 wt% recyclate. The dynamic Young's modulus and cold modulus of rupture decreased, but the thermal shock resistance was improved by the use of the recyclate.
Chiral separation of calcium channel antagonists by SFC and HPLC using different immobilized chiral stationary phases
Authors: Raja Rupak , Alam Syed Dilshad , Mukhopadhyay Dipanjan , Shirsath Vikas , Jain Arvind K. , ALOthman Zeid A. , Locatelli Marcello , Ali Imran
Published: January 2022

Supercritical fluid chromatography and high‐performance liquid chromatography techniques are popular for the chiral separations of different drugs and pharmaceuticals. Therefore, this article describes a comparative study of the chiral separation of some calcium channel antagonists such as verapamil, gallopamil, and nisoldipine. The columns used were Chiralpak IG and Chiralpak ID (250 mm × 4.6 mm, 5.0 μm). The separation was achieved by using a variety of mobile phases in both techniques. The retention, separation, and resolution factors in SFC were in the range of 1.36–7.30, 1.09–1.72, and 1.16–3.47, while these values in the case of HPLC were 1.03–2.42, 1.12–1.35, and 0.49–2.46. The complete resolution of gallopamil and verapamil was achieved successfully. The chiral recognition was controlled by hydrogen bondings, π‐π interactions, dipole induced dipole interactions, van der Waal forces, and steric effects. SFC was found to be a better technique than HPLC because of quick separation, good separation power, economic, environment‐friendly, and green technology.
Metal‐Organic Framework MIL‐68(In)‐NH2 on the Membrane Test Bench for Dye Removal and Carbon Capture
Authors: Hosseini Monjezi Bahram , Sapotta Benedikt , Moulai Sarah , Zhang Jinju , Oestreich Robert , Ladewig Bradley P. , Müller‐Buschbaum Klaus , Janiak Christoph , Hashem Tawheed , Knebel Alexander
Published: January 2022

The metal‐organic framework (MOF) MIL‐68(In)‐NH2 was tested for dye removal from wastewater and carbon capture gas separation. MIL‐68(In)‐NH2 was synthesized as a neat, supported MOF thin film membrane and as spherical particles using pyridine as a modulator to shape the morphology. The neat MIL‐68(In)‐NH2 membranes were employed for dye removal in cross‐flow geometry, demonstrating strong molecular sieving. MIL‐68(In)‐NH2 particles were used for electrospinning of poylethersulfone mixed‐matrix membranes, applied in dead‐end filtration with unprecedented adsorption values. Additionally, the neat MOF membranes were used for H2/CO2 and CO2/CH4 separation.
A cloud service recommendation method based on extended multi‐source information fusion
Authors: Wang Yubiao , Wen Junhao , Zhou Wei , Wang Xibin , Wu Quanwang , Tao Bamei
Published: January 2022

With the rapid development of information technology, the problem of “information overload” emerges when users choose cloud services. How to integrate multi‐source information to achieve accurate service recommendation is an urgent problem to be solved by current recommendation systems. This article proposes a cloud service recommendation method based on extended multi‐source information fusion. First, we propose a score prediction based on matrix decomposition and topic matrix, and we fully mine existing explicit data and feedback data, such as user ratings, social trust information, reviews, and user personalized preferences and so on. Second, in order to solve the problems of data sparseness and cold start of the system, we integrate the score, social trust information and review into a comprehensive model through collaborative filtering (CF), and propose a multi‐source information fusion recommendation method. The CF fusion method mainly combines two parts: social matrix decomposition and topic matrix decomposition. Finally, in order to further improve the accuracy and scalability, the implicit feature matrix is integrated into the user rating matrix, and the original CF enhancement based on scoring matrix decomposition is a matrix decomposition method that can learn implicit features. Experimental results show that compared with other recommendation algorithms, the cloud service recommendation method proposed in this article can improve the recommendation accuracy and allow users to choose satisfactory cloud services.
Stocking method and monensin supplementation effects on cow and calf performance and pasture productivity
Authors: Linneen Sara , Williamson Jessica A. , Duppstadt Leanna , Williamson Benjamin
Published: January 2022

In the northeastern United States, pastures are predominantly cool‐season perennial grasses and legumes that are dormant in the summer resulting in a decline in forage nutritive value and availability, commonly referred to as “summer slump.” Strategies to alleviate summer slump may include stocking management or supplementation with or without an ionophore such as monensin to maximize efficiency. A 3‐yr study (n = 32 cow–calf pairs; 718.0 ± of 83.9 kg) was conducted to evaluate the effects of rotational (ROT) or continuous (CONT) stocking method with or without monensin on forage production, pasture nutritive value, and animal production. Continuous and ROT stocking treatments were assigned to eight 2.9‐ha pastures with two replicates/year for 56 grazing days during the summer. Treatments were arranged as a 2 × 2 factorial, and supplements included with or without monensin (200 mg cow−1 daily; Rumensin 90, Elanco Animal Health) delivered once daily (0.45 kg cow−1). Disk meter height was maintained using put‐and‐take animals with four tester cow–calf pairs per pasture. Carrying capacity (CC) and calf average daily gain (ADG) were not influenced by stocking management. Rotational stocking increased cow body weight (BW) change by 6.6 kg. Monensin improved CC by 9% regardless of stocking method but did not affect cow BW change or calf ADG. Based on this study, monensin can improve carrying capacity and stocking rate regardless of stocking method. Implementing rotational stocking may improve pasture health by suppressing weed growth and enhancing forage nutritive value in pastures containing cool‐season perennial forages.
Correcting experimental data for spatial trends in a common bean breeding program
Authors: Salvador Felipe Vicentino , Pereira Gabriela dos Santos , Souza Michel Henriques de , Silva Laiza Maria Bendia da , Santana Alice Silva , de Paula Igor Gonçalves , Steckling Skarlet de Marco , Fernandes Rafael Silva , Marçal Tiago de Souza , Carneiro Antônio Policarpo Souza , Carneiro Pedro Crescêncio Souza , Carneiro José Eustáquio de Souza
Published: January 2022

In common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) breeding, several trials are carried out in field conditions to predict the genotypic values, but experimental designs may not be sufficient to capture the field heterogeneity in the experimental area. The objective of this work was to evaluate the potential of spatial models to correct data from a common bean breeding program for spatial trends and improve the prediction of genotypic values. We used real data from 19 field trials from a common bean breeding program and three experimental designs. The traditional statistical model with design effects and independent errors was fitted and used as the basic model. Later, we fitted a sequence of spatial models to include different residual (co)variance structures for local trends and fixed and random effects based on plot position information to capture global and extraneous trends. The basic model and the best‐fit spatial model were compared regarding the estimates of heritability, accuracy, prediction error variance, and discordance in the top‐ranking genotypes. In most cases, the use of spatial models improved the estimates of heritability and accuracy or, at least, reduced the estimates of prediction error variance. Also, changes in the genotypic values classification were observed. Because no single model presented the best fit for all trials, some of the tested models were recommended for future trials based on the patterns of spatial trends observed. Thus, the use of spatial models helped to improve the data analysis and the prediction of genotypic values by capturing the field heterogeneity in our common bean field trials.
A random pulse modulation approach to modeling the flicker and white noise of the charge pump of a fractional‐N frequency synthesizer
Authors: Wang Xu , Kennedy Michael Peter
Published: January 2022

Flicker noise and white noise from the charge pump (CP) within a phase locked loop (PLL) are key contributors to the close‐in phase noise floor of a fractional‐N frequency synthesizer. The pulse train from the phase frequency detector imposes different types of random pulse modulation on the up and down current sources, which causes different modulation effects to the flicker and white noises at low frequency. This paper rigorously analyzes the underlying noise random modulation mechanisms for the system operating in integer‐N and fractional‐N modes. Transient noise simulation using Verilog‐A behavioral modeling followed by power spectrum analysis is applied to support the mathematical analysis of the random noise modulation.
Successful esophageal endoscopic submucosal dissection with intraoperative release of stenosis due to previous endoscopic submucosal dissection scarring
Authors: Ishii Rindo , Ohata Ken , Sawada Rikimaru , Takeuchi Nao , Kurebayashi Marie , Inamoto Rin , Takayanagi Syunya , Kimoto Yoshiaki , Nohara Mako , Liu Bo , Negishi Ryoju , Minato Yohei , Muramoto Takashi
Published: January 2022

Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is the standard endoscopic treatment for early esophageal cancer. Esophageal stricture often occurs at the site of ESD for large lesions. When treating a metachronous lesion appearing at the severe stricture, it may be difficult to negotiate a conventional endoscope through the stricture. Using a thin endoscope may be a useful strategy for such lesions, though ESD using a thin endoscope is challenging because of poor maneuverability. Herein, we report a case of successful ESD for early esophageal cancer at the severe stricture, using a conventional endoscope. A 72‐year‐old man with a previous history of ESD for esophageal cancer and a post‐ESD esophageal stricture was referred to our hospital for metachronous early esophageal cancer. The lesion, 10 mm in diameter, was located at the stricture with a slight distal extension. Conventional endoscopes could not be negotiated through stricture. Therefore, submucosal dissection was performed from the oral to the anal aspect of the lesion, as far as possible. After completion of submucosal dissection of the oral aspect of the lesion and part of the lesion located on the stricture, the severe stricture was released, allowing the passage of conventional endoscope, and ESD of the entire lesion was completed en bloc. Histopathological examination showed squamous cell carcinoma, pT1a‐LPM. Stricture due to scarring may occur during the regeneration process of the defective mucosa, muscularis mucosa, and submucosal layer. Therefore, incision and dissection of the contracted mucosa, mucularis mucosa, and submucosal layer would release the stenosis.
Environmental DNA‐based methods detect the invasion front of an advancing signal crayfish population
Authors: Greenhalgh Jack A. , Collins Rupert A. , Edgley Duncan E. , Genner Martin J. , Hindle Jan , Jones Gareth , Loughlin Lesley , O’donnel Maire , Sweet Michael J. , Battarbee Richard W.
Published: January 2022

Aquatic invasive species, such as the signal crayfish (Pacifastacus leniusculus), present a major threat to freshwater ecosystems. However, these species can be challenging to detect in recently invaded habitats. Environmental DNA (eDNA)–based methods are highly sensitive and capable of detecting just a few copies of target DNA from non‐invasively collected samples. Therefore, they have considerable potential for broad‐scale use in mapping and monitoring the spread of invasive species. In this study, we aimed to increase our understanding of the current distribution of signal crayfish in a headwater stream system in the United Kingdom (tributaries of the River Wharfe, Addingham, Yorkshire). Environmental DNA sampling, assessment of water chemistry variables, and conventional crayfish hand‐searching were conducted across 19 study sites in five tributary streams. Using hand‐searching, we detected signal crayfish at 26% of the sites (5/19 study sites). However, using eDNA‐based methods, occupancy increased to 47% of study sites (9/19). Our sampling revealed previously unknown sites of crayfish occupancy, and using eDNA‐based methods, we were able to define the geographical extent of the invasion front in each headwater stream sampled. This study highlights that eDNA‐based methods are well‐suited for detecting newly established signal crayfish populations in recently invaded habitats, even when the invasive species is at low abundance and, therefore, might otherwise be under‐represented or undetected using conventional survey methods. Our study provides further evidence that headwater stream ecosystems are particularly vulnerable to signal crayfish invasion. However, their geomorphological features may make methods used to reduce or prevent invasive crayfish dispersal more effective than in other freshwater ecosystems.
Mechanistic Insights into Electrocatalytic Nitrogen Reduction Reaction on the Pd‐W Heteronuclear Diatom Supported on C2N Monolayer: Role of H Pre‐Adsorption
Authors: Zhang Zeyun , Xu Xuefei
Published: January 2022

The electrocatalytic N2 reduction reaction (eNRR) is a potential alternative to the Haber–Bosch process for ammonia (NH3) production. Tremendous efforts have been made in eNRR catalyst research to promote the practical application of eNRR. In this work, by means of density functional theory calculations and the computational hydrogen electrode model, we evaluated the eNRR performance of 30 single metal atoms supported on a C2N monolayer (M@C2N), and we designed a new thermodynamically stable Pd‐W hetero‐metal diatomic catalyst supported on the C2N monolayer (PdW@C2N). We found that PdW@C2N prefers to adsorb H over N2, and then, the pre‐generated hydrogen‐terminated PdW@C2N selectively adsorbing N2 behaves as the actual functioning “catalyst” to catalyze the eNRR process, exhibiting excellent performance with a low overpotential (0.31 V), an ultra‐low NH3 desorption free energy (0.05 eV), and a high selectivity toward eNRR over hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). Moreover, PdW@C2N shows a superior eNRR performance to its monomer (W@C2N) and homonuclear diatom (W2@C2N) counterparts. The revealed mechanism indicates that the preferential H adsorption over N2 on the active site may not always hamper the eNRR process, especially for heteronuclear diatom catalysts. This work encourages deeper exploration on the competition of eNRR and HER on catalyst surfaces.
Left atrial strain predicts exercise capacity in heart failure independently of left ventricular ejection fraction
Authors: Maffeis Caterina , Rossi Andrea , Cannata Lorenzo , Zocco Camilla , Belyavskiy Evgeny , Radhakrishnan Aravind Kumar , Feuerstein Anna , Morris Daniel Armando , Pieske‐Kraigher Elisabeth , Pieske Burkert , Edelmann Frank , Temporelli Pier Luigi
Published: January 2022

Aims

We hypothesized that left atrial (LA) remodelling and function are associated with poor exercise capacity as prognostic marker in chronic heart failure (CHF) across a broad range of left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF).

Methods and results

One hundred seventy‐one patients with CHF were analysed [age 65 ± 11 years, 136 males (80%); 86 heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF), 27 heart failure with mid‐range ejection fraction (HFmrEF), 58 heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF)]. All patients underwent echocardiography and maximal cardiopulmonary exercise testing and were classified according to a prognostic cut‐off of peak VO2 (pVO2; 14 mL/kg/min). Seventy‐seven (45%) patients reached pVO2 < 14 and 94 (55%) pVO2 ≥ 14 mL/kg/min. Between the two groups, there was a considerable difference in both left atrial volume (LAVi, 53 ± 24 vs. 44 ± 18 mL/m2, P = 0.005) and function (LA reservoir strain 12 ± 5 vs. 20 ± 10%, P < 0.0001). Receiver‐operating characteristic curves identified LA reservoir strain (area under the curve: 0.73 [0.65–0.80], P < 0.0001) as strong predictor for impaired pVO2 among all echocardiographic variables; LA reservoir strain < 23% had 37% specificity but a very high sensitivity (96%) in identifying a severely reduced pVO2. In logistic regression analysis, LA reservoir strain < 23% was associated with a highly increased risk of pVO2 < 14 mL/kg/min (odds ratio 16.0 [4.7–54.6]; P < 0.0001). The multivariate analysis showed that a reduced LA reservoir strain was associated with pVO2 < 14 mL/kg/min after adjustment for age, body mass index (BMI), and clinical variables, that is, New York Heart Association class, atrial fibrillation, haemoglobin, and creatinine (b 0.22 [95% confidence interval, CI, 0.12–0.31]; P < 0.0001), and after adjustment for echocardiographic variables, that is, LVEF or left ventricular global longitudinal strain (LVGLS) and tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) (b 0.16 [95% CI 0.08–0.24]; P < 0.0001). Patients with HFrEF, HFmrEF, and HFpEF were separately analysed. Among LA reservoir strain, LAVi, LVEF, LVGLS, and TAPSE, LA reservoir strain was the only one significantly associated with pVO2 in all subgroups (after adjustment for sex and BMI, P = 0.003, 0.04, and 0.01, respectively).

Conclusions

In patients with CHF, an impaired LA reservoir function is independently associated with a severely reduced pVO2. LA dysfunction represents a marker of poor prognosis across LVEF borders in the CHF population.
Near‐infrared spectroscopy for the inline classification and characterization of fruit juices for a product‐customized flash pasteurization
Authors: Weishaupt Imke , Neubauer Peter , Schneider Jan
Published: January 2022

The feasibility of inline classification and characterization of seven fruit juice varieties was investigated by the application of near‐infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) combined with chemometrics. The findings are intended to be used to optimize the flash pasteurization of liquid foods. More precise information of the kind of product in real time had to be achieved to enable a more product‐specific process. Using the method of partial least squares discriminant analysis, the fruit juice varieties were classified, showing a classification rate of 100% regarding an internal and 69% regarding an external test sets. A characterization by the extract content, pH value, turbidity, and viscosity was made by fitting a partial least squares regression model. The percentage prediction error of the pH value was <3% for internal and external test sets, and for the Brix value prediction errors were about 4% (internal) and 20% (external). The parameters viscosity and turbidity were found to be unsuitable. Despite this, the strategy applied to gain more product‐specific information in real time showed to be feasible. By linking the results to a database containing potentially harmful microorganisms for various types of fruit juices, a more product‐specific calculation of the necessary heat input can be performed. To demonstrate the practical relevance, a comparison between conventional and product‐adapted process control was performed using two fruit varieties as examples in case of Alicyclobacillus acidoterrestris. Thus, with more accurate product information, achieved through the use of NIRS with chemometrics, a more precise calculation of the heat input can be achieved.
Getting to HBV cure: The promising paths forward
Authors: Fung Scott , Choi Hannah S. J. , Gehring Adam , Janssen Harry L. A.
Published: January 2022

Chronic HBV infection is a global public health burden estimated to impact nearly 300 million persons worldwide. Despite the advent of potent antiviral agents that effectively suppress viral replication, HBV cure remains difficult to achieve because of the persistence of covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA), HBV‐DNA integration into the host genome, and impaired immune response. Indefinite treatment is necessary for most patients to maintain level of viral suppression. The success of direct‐acting antivirals (DAAs) for hepatitis C treatment has rejuvenated the search for a cure for chronic hepatitis B (CHB), though an HBV cure likely requires an additional layer: immunomodulators for restoration of robust immune responses. DAAs such as entry inhibitors, capsid assembly modulators, inhibitors of subviral particle release, cccDNA silencers, and RNA interference molecules have reached clinical development. Immunomodulators, namely innate immunomodulators (Toll‐like receptor agonists), therapeutic vaccines, checkpoint inhibitors, and monoclonal antibodies, are also progressing toward clinical development. The future of the HBV cure possibly lies in triple combination therapies with concerted action on replication inhibition, antigen reduction, and immune stimulation. Many obstacles remain, such as overcoming translational failures, choosing the right endpoint using the right biomarkers, and leveraging current treatments in combination regimens to enhance response rates. This review gives an overview of the current therapies for CHB, HBV biomarkers used to evaluate treatment response, and development of DAAs and immune‐targeting drugs and discusses the limitations and unanswered questions on the journey to an HBV cure.
Placebo effect on progression and regression in NASH: Evidence from a meta‐analysis
Authors: Ng Cheng Han , Xiao Jieling , Lim Wen Hui , Chin Yip Han , Yong Jie Ning , Tan Darren Jun Hao , Tay Phoebe , Syn Nicholas , Foo Roger , Chan Mark , Chew Nicholas , Tan Eunice XX , Huang Daniel Q. , Dan Yock Young , Tamaki Nobuharu , Siddiqui Mohammad Shadab , Sanyal Arun J. , Loomba Rohit , Noureddin Mazen , Muthiah Mark D.
Published: January 2022

Background and Aims

The evaluation of the natural history of NASH has been limited. Currently, liver biopsy remains the gold standard in the assessment of NASH. Placebo‐controlled trials represent a controlled environment with paired biopsies for the evaluation of NASH. This meta‐analysis thus seeks to quantify the change severity of NASH over time, with patients on placebo arms from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to examine the natural history of NASH.

Methods

A search was conducted to include NASH RCTs with placebo treatment arms. Primary outcomes were (1) the resolution of NASH without worsening of fibrosis, (2) two‐point reduction in NAFLD activity score without worsening of fibrosis, and (3) at least one‐point reduction in fibrosis. Generalized linear mix model was used to estimate pooled proportion and mean differences.

Results

This meta‐analysis of 43 RCTs included 2649 placebo‐treated patients. The pooled estimate of NASH resolution and two‐point NAFLD activity score reduction without worsening of fibrosis was 11.65% (95% CI: 7.98‐16.71) and 21.11% (95% CI: 17.24‐25.57). The rate of ≥1 stage reduction and progression of fibrosis was 18.82% (95% CI: 15.65‐22.47) and 22.74% (CI: 19.63‐26.17), respectively. Older age and African American ethnicity was associated with lower NASH resolution rate in placebo‐treated patients.

Conclusions

Despite the absence of any pharmacological interventions, a significant proportion of patients in the placebo arm demonstrated improvements in liver histology, highlighting the possibility that NASH is a disease that can not only progress but regress spontaneously over time. Additionally, histologic response in placebo‐treated patients is helpful in future design of phase 2B and phase 3 trials.
Prevalence of anxiety, depression, stress, and perceived stress and their relation with resilience during the COVID‐19 pandemic, a cross‐sectional study
Authors: Parvar Seyedeh Yasamin , Ghamari Narges , Pezeshkian Fatemehsadat , Shahriarirad Reza
Published: January 2022

Background and aims

Home quarantine and physical distancing at the time of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) had a severe effect on the mental health of the populations. Resilience has been reported previously to be a protective factor against anxiety, stress, and depression. This study evaluates the prevalence and severity of depression, anxiety, stress, and perceived stress and their relation with resilience associated with the COVID‐19 pandemic among a sample of the general population in Southern Iran.

Methods

In this cross‐sectional web‐based survey, from April 12 to May 13, 2020, stress, anxiety, depression, perceived stress, and resilience were measured using the Persian version of Depression Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS‐21), Perceived Stress Scale (PSS‐14), and Connor‐Davidson Resilience Scale (CD‐RISC). Statistical analyses were carried out using the IBM Statistical Package for Social Sciences. Mean ± standard deviation (SD) and frequencies were used to describe demographic data. Independent sample t‐test, Spearman correlation, and the Pearson correlation coefficient were performed to examine anxiety, depression, stress, and resilience.

Results

Among a total of 538 participants, the overall prevalence of moderate‐to‐extremely severe depression, anxiety, and stress was found to be 26.1%, 33.2%, and 5.8%, respectively. The overall median PSS and resilience score were 30 and 70, respectively. There was a significant association between higher age and perceived stress. Male and high income were related to higher resilience scores. Perceived stress positively correlates with resilience, whereas depression significantly correlates with anxiety and stress. Individuals with underlying disease demonstrated significantly higher scores for depression and anxiety. Also, perceived stress had a significant but weak, positive correlation with age and the number of quarantine days.

Conclusion

The occurring COVID‐19 pandemic could be the culprit of psychological distress, anxiety, and depression of large population quantities. Our results showed a subordinate overall resilience in the general Iranian population during the COVID‐19 pandemic.
Healthcare resource use associated with the diagnosis of transthyretin amyloidosis cardiomyopathy
Authors: Asher Clint , Guilder Andrew , Finocchiaro Gherardo , Carr‐White Gerry , Rodríguez‐Guadarrama Yael
Published: January 2022

Objectives

Our primary aim was to evaluate the healthcare resource use associated with the diagnosis of transthyretin amyloidosis cardiomyopathy. Second, we aim to assess the effect of the number of diagnostic tests and clinical contact points on the total time and costs between symptom onset and diagnosis defining a quantitative hypothetical optimized diagnostic pathway.

Setting

Clinical and cost data were collected from patients presenting between 2010 and 2018 in a tertiary referral institution in South London involving two participating hospitals.

Participants

Thirty‐eight adult patients with a definite diagnosis of transthyretin amyloidosis cardiomyopathy were included, mostly male (n = 28, 74%) and of African‐Caribbean descent (n = 23, 64%). We excluded patients without a confirmed transthyretin amyloidosis cardiomyopathy or those on inotersen, patisiran, or diflunisal at point of referral.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

The average time between first presentation and final diagnosis, and the cost per patient per month. By comparing to a more optimal clinical pathway towards diagnosis, we considered what could be the theoretical gain in terms of time to diagnosis and financial savings.

Results

The average time between first presentation and final diagnosis was 2.74 years. The average cost per patient per month was higher with progressive heart failure symptoms. A hypothetical optimal pathway reduces time to diagnosis of 1.65 to 1.74 years per patient. The potential financial savings are estimated within the range of £3000 to £4800 per patient.

Conclusions

Patients diagnosed with transthyretin amyloidosis cardiomyopathy have substantial healthcare resource utilization and costs starting from symptom onset. Higher costs were observed with progression in symptoms and appear linked to a delayed diagnosis. The number of additional diagnostic tests and clinical contact points may contribute to this and could represent a path to explore further for important health and cost savings, with more efficient pathways for these patients to be managed.
Food allergy in children with asthma and its correlation with level of asthma control
Authors: Cherian Anchu Anna , Lakshminarasappa Darshith Saragondlu , Chandrasekaran Venkatesh , Chinnakali Palanivel
Published: January 2022

Background

There is paucity of regional data regarding food allergy among children with asthma.

Objectives

To estimate the proportion of children with asthma who have food‐related respiratory symptoms and to correlate it with (a) skin prick test (SPT) results and (b) level of asthma control.

Methodology

This cross‐sectional study involved children with asthma, aged ≥6 years attending the childhood asthma clinic in a tertiary care hospital, in the southern part of India from July 2017 to July 2019. Basic demography and clinical details were recorded. In subjects with a history of food allergy, skin prick test (SPT) was done using AllergoSPT according to guidelines recommended by British Society of Allergy and Clinical Immunology (BSACI). Asthma control was assessed using asthma control test (ACT) and childhood ACT questionnaires.

Results

Of the total 305 children included, the most commonly reported allergen was banana (45%, n = 137). The predominant symptom reported was wheezing (54%). SPT was positive in 76 children (24.9%). Level of asthma control (P value < .01), family history of atopy (P value < .01), and age at introduction of complementary foods (P value < .01) were significantly associated with food allergy.

Conclusion

Presumed food allergy is seen in one‐fourth of children with asthma and significantly affects symptom control in them.
Do preschoolers always trust the majority? The influence of familiarity and expertise of a dissenter in a Chinese sample
Authors: Zhang Bixi , Deng Zhijun , Zhang Heyi , Chen Yinghe
Published: January 2022

This study investigated whether familiarity and expertise of a dissenter would lessen the trust of a three‐person majority among preschoolers in a Chinese sample. The results indicated that preschoolers preferred to trust a majority rather than a stranger dissenter. However, when familiarity and expertise of the dissenter were manipulated in the experiments, the majority was less endorsed by both age groups than the previous condition. Furthermore, the preference for the majority under conflicting conditions depended on age. Especially, five‐year‐olds trusted the expert more than the majority, and they trusted the majority more than the familiar person. However, three‐year‐olds did not show any significant preference. These results suggest that older preschoolers tend to value other factors rather than simply accepting the information shared among a majority. The study provided an enhanced understanding of the influences of a dissenter's expertise and familiarity in selective trust and extended the findings to Chinese preschoolers.
Nitrogen fertility rates affecting weed population dynamics in a perennial ryegrass stand in western Oregon
Authors: Kowalewski Alec , Cain Alyssa , Braithwaite Emily , McDonald Brian , Schmid Chas
Published: January 2022

Few projects have explored the long‐term effects of N rates on multiple weed populations in the Pacific Northwest. The objectives of this research were to evaluate the effects of N application timing and annual N rates on weed population dynamics in a perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.) stand in western Oregon. Factors in this project included N application timing [spring–heavy (April, May, June, and October), fall–heavy (May, September, October, and November), early spring and late fall (April, June, October, and November), and traditional spring and fall (May, June, September, and October)] and annual N rates (75, 150, and 300 kg N ha−1 annually). An untreated control was also included in this project. The initial findings suggest that after 18 mo without herbicides, the highest annual N rate had the highest annual bluegrass populations but the lowest moss and broadleaf weed populations. The spring–heavy fertilization program at the low annual rate resulted in higher broadleaf weed populations than all other N application timing × N rate combinations. Data will continue to be collected from this experiment to determine the effects of N application timing and annual N rates on weed population dynamics.
A Girl Facing Home with Tears: Expressivism and Identity Construction in L2 Writing
Authors: Litten Jonathan
Published: January 2022

This article presents a case study on the use of expressivist writing pedagogy as a practice of identity construction for an adolescent Chinese‐Speaking English Language Learner (ELL) in a 6–12, college preparatory, international boarding school context. The study implements a narrative inquiry/content analysis framework to analyze themes of second language (L2) memoir and poetry as safehouse writing, as a dialogue with identity across time, and as a tool to negotiate the ambivalence associated with the second language learning experience.
A retrospective analysis of stereotypy: Applicability of the behavioral subtyping model
Authors: Wunderlich Kara L. , Hemstreet Ronni , Best Lauren
Published: January 2022

Recent research on automatically reinforced self‐injurious behavior (ASIB) has identified specific patterns of responding in functional analyses that correlate with intervention efficacy (Hagopian et al., 2015; Hagopian et al., 2017). Whereas research by Hagopian et al. (2015, 2017) points to an important development in the assessment and treatment of ASIB, it is unclear if the applicability extends to automatically reinforced noninjurious behaviors, including stereotypy. Therefore, the current study replicated the methods of Hagopian et al. (2017), extending this research to published cases of stereotypy and related behavior. The behavioral subtype for each case was identified, and where applicable, the subtype was compared to intervention outcome data. The categorization of data sets as either Subtype 1 or Subtype 2 did not correspond with specific treatment outcomes. Unlike the results of Hagopian et al. (2015, 2017), reinforcement‐based interventions were not more likely to be effective for Subtype 1 stereotypy than for Subtype 2 stereotypy.
Induction of autophagy and endoplasmic reticulum autophagy caused by cadmium telluride quantum dots are protective mechanisms of yeast cell
Authors: Wei Fujing , Xie Qiyue , Huang Zhijun , Yang Aimin , Duan Yixiang
Published: January 2022

Quantum dots (QDs), with unique and tunable optical properties, have been widely used in many fields closely related to our daily lives, such as biomedical application and electronic products. Therefore, the potential toxicity of QDs on the human health should be understood. Autophagy plays an important role in cell survival and death. Endoplasmic reticulum autophagy (ER‐phagy), a selective autophagy that degrades ER, responds to the accumulation of misfolded proteins and ER stress. Although many reports have revealed that autophagy can be disturbed by cadmium telluride (CdTe)‐QDs and other nanomaterials, there are still lack more detailed researches to illustrate the function of autophagy in CdTe‐QDs‐treated cells, and the function of ER‐phagy in CdTe‐QDs‐treated cells remains to be illustrated. On the basis of transcriptome analysis, we explored the effect of CdTe‐QDs on Saccharomyces cerevisiae and first illustrated that both of autophagy and ER‐phagy were protective mechanisms in CdTe‐QDs‐treated cells. It was found that CdTe‐QDs inhibited the proliferation of yeast cells, disrupted homeostasis of cells, membrane integrity, and metabolism process. All of these can be reasons of the reduction of cell viability. The abolishment of autophagy and ER‐phagy reduce the cell survival, indicating both of them are cell protective mechanisms against CdTe‐QDs toxicity in yeast cells. Therefore, our data are significant for the application of CdTe‐QDs and provide precious information for understanding of nanomaterials‐related ER‐phagy.
Bioinspired electrospun decellularized extracellular matrix scaffolds promote muscle regeneration in a rat skeletal muscle defect model
Authors: Hogan Katie J. , Smoak Mollie M. , Koons Gerry L. , Perez Marissa R. , Bedell Matthew L. , Jiang Emily Y. , Young Simon , Mikos Antonios G.
Published: January 2022

Volumetric muscle loss is a debilitating injury that can leave patients with long‐lasting or permanent structural and functional deficits. With clinical treatments failing to address these shortcomings, there is a great need for tissue‐engineered therapies to promote skeletal muscle regeneration. In this study, we aim to assess the potential for electrospun decellularized skeletal muscle extracellular matrix (dECM) to promote skeletal muscle regeneration in a rat partial thickness tibialis anterior defect model. Aligned electrospun scaffolds with varying degrees of crosslinking density were implanted into the defect site and compared to an empty defect control. After 8 weeks, muscles were harvested, weighed, and cellular and morphological analyses were performed via histology and immunohistochemistry. Cell infiltration, angiogenesis, and myogenesis were observed in the defect site in both dECM groups. However, favorable mechanical properties and slower degradation kinetics resulted in greater support of tissue remodeling in the more crosslinked scaffolds and preservation of existing myofiber area in both dECM groups compared to the empty defect control. More sustained release of pro‐regenerative degradation products also promoted greater myofiber formation in the defect site. This study allowed for a greater understanding of how electrospun skeletal muscle scaffolds interact with existing skeletal muscle and can inform their potential as a therapy in a wide variety of soft tissue applications.
Computational studies to identify the common type‐I and type‐II inhibitors against the CDK8 enzyme
Authors: Ghosh Amar , Manhas Anu , Jha Prakash C.
Published: January 2022

In this study, multicomplex‐based pharmacophore modeling was conducted on the structural proteome of the two states of CDK8 protein, that is, DMG‐in and out. Three pharmacophores having six, five, and four features were selected as the representative models to conduct the virtual screening process using the prepared drug‐like natural product database. The screened candidates were subjected to molecular docking studies on DMG‐in (5XS2) and out (4F6U) conformation of the CDK8 protein. Subsequently, the common four docked candidates of 5XS2 and 4F6U were selected to perform the molecular dynamics simulation studies. Apart from one of the complexes of DMG‐in (5XS2—UNPD163102), all other complexes displayed stable dynamic behavior. The interaction and stability studies of the docked complexes were compared with the references selected from the two conformations (DMG‐in and out) of the protein. The current work leads to the identification of three common DMG‐in and out hits with diverse scaffolds which can be employed as the initial leads for the design of the novel CDK8 inhibitors.
Development of an electronic learning progression dashboard to monitor student clinical experiences
Authors: Lai Hollis , Ameli Nazila , Patterson Steven , Senior Anthea , Lunardon Doris
Published: January 2022

Introduction

Clinical experience tracking mechanisms for students at dental schools provide patient assignment, student experience, and learning progression feedback. The purpose of this study was to evaluate dental students’ clinical experiences following the implementation of a learning progression dashboard (LPD).

Methods

After developing and deploying an electronic LPD using PHP, secondary data analysis on dental students’ clinical experiences from 2017–2019 was conducted. Student experience differences were compared between the year before continuous use of the LPD and the first year using it. LPD data contained the required clinical procedures dentistry students must perform across all disciplines and the number of planned, in progress, and completed tasks each student has accomplished. Using two time points, the students’ experiences were compared. Univariate statistics and independent t‐tests were conducted in R for detecting the differences in the number and categories of codes.

Results

The number and category of codes showed significant differences between the academic year 2017–2018 and 2018–2019 for both third‐ and fourth‐year dental students after one and two terms. Overall, students recorded a 26% greater number of treatment codes and experienced a 26% greater number of code categories compared to the previous year.

Conclusion

Applying information management methods such as dashboards can better inform educators on student clinical experiences and improve clinical learning outcomes for students.
Contextual extinction of drug‐associated discriminative stimuli fails to attenuate drug‐vs‐food choice in rhesus monkeys
Authors: Banks Matthew L. , Hutsell Blake A. , Negus S. Stevens
Published: January 2022

Relapse within the context of a substance use disorder can be triggered by cues that function as discriminative stimuli to signal contingencies of drug availability and promote drug‐taking behavior. Extinction procedures can weaken this association between drug‐associated cues and drug‐taking behavior and may reduce the probability of relapse. This study evaluated a regimen of extinction training on cocaine and heroin self‐administration in rhesus monkeys under a drug‐vs‐food choice procedure. Behavior was initially maintained under a concurrent schedule of food (1‐g food pellets; fixed‐ratio 100 schedule) and cocaine injections (0–0.1 mg/kg/injection; fixed‐ratio 10) (n = 4 males) or heroin injections (0–0.01 mg/kg/injection; fixed‐ratio 10) (n = 3 females and 1 male) during daily 2‐hr choice sessions. Subsequently, choice sessions were supplemented by daily 20‐hr saline self‐administration sessions for 14 consecutive days. During saline self‐administration sessions, only drug‐associated discriminative stimuli were presented and responding produced saline injections. Drug continued to be available during choice sessions. Prior to extinction training, both cocaine and heroin maintained dose‐dependent increases in drug‐vs‐food choice. Exposure to 14 saline self‐administration sessions failed to significantly decrease drug choice and increase food choice. These preclinical results do not support the effectiveness of extinguishing drug‐associated discriminative stimuli as a nonpharmacological treatment strategy for reducing drug choice.
An empirical study on underemployment in China: Determinants and effects on wages
Authors: Zhu Ruoran , Chen Guifu
Published: January 2022

Using the data from seven waves of China Health and Nutrition Survey questionnaires, this study investigates the factors associated with underemployment by measuring it using multidimensional indicators and the effect of underemployment on hourly wages in China. We find that male workers have a lower probability of underemployment than female workers. The underemployment rate of men has increased with age. As for women, the underemployment rate does not significantly change with age, considering corrections for selectivity bias. Furthermore, the effect of underemployment on the hourly wages of workers is robustly significant and negative for both males and females.
Body growth, upper arm fat area, and clinical parameters in children with nephropathic cystinosis compared with other pediatric chronic kidney disease entities
Authors: Kluck Rika , Müller Sophia , Jagodzinski Celina , Hohenfellner Katharina , Büscher Anja , Kemper Markus J. , Oh Jun , Billing Heiko , Thumfart Julia , Weber Lutz T. , Acham‐Roschitz Birgit , Arbeiter Klaus , Tönshoff Burkhard , Hagenberg Martina , Kanzelmeyer Nele , Pavičić Leo , Haffner Dieter , Zivicnjak Miroslav
Published: January 2022

Children with infantile nephropathic cystinosis (INC), an inherited lysosomal storage disease resulting in cystine accumulation in all body cells, are prone to progressive chronic kidney disease (CKD), impaired growth and reduced weight gain; however, systematic anthropometric analyses are lacking. In this prospective multicenter study we investigated linear growth, body proportion, body mass index (BMI), upper arm fat area (UFA) and biochemical parameters in 43 pediatric INC patients with CKD stages 1 to 5 and 49 age‐matched CKD controls, with 193 annual measurements. INC patients showed more impaired height than CKD controls (−1.8 vs −0.7 z‐score; P < .001), despite adequate cysteamine therapy, treatment for Fanconi syndrome and more frequent use of growth hormone. Only the youngest INC patients shared the same body pattern with CKD controls characterized by preferential impairment of leg length and rather preserved trunk length. In late‐prepuberty, body pattern changed only in INC patients due to improved leg growth and more impaired trunk length. Mean UFA z‐score in INC patients was slightly reduced in early childhood and progressively decreased thereafter reaching −0.8 z‐score in adolescence, while CKD controls showed a steady increase in standardized BMI and UFA especially during adolescent age. Menarche in female INC patients was significantly delayed compared to CKD controls.

Our data indicate that with age and progression of disease, pediatric INC patients undergo unique changes of body growth and fat stores that are distinct from those with CKD stemming from other causes, suggesting other factors apart from CKD to contribute to this development.

Pediatric patients with infantile nephropathic cystinosis display more severe impaired linear growth than other peer CKD patients, despite of cysteamine treatment, supplementation for Fanconi syndrome, and more frequent use of growth hormone, with a distinct change of body proportions and overall lower body fat.