bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effectiveness of convolutional neural networks in the interpretation of pulmonary cytologic images in endobronchial ultrasound procedures
Authors: Lin Ching‐Kai , Chang Jerry , Huang Ching‐Chun , Wen Yueh‐Feng , Ho Chao‐Chi , Cheng Yun‐Chien
Published: November 2021

Background

Rapid on‐site cytologic evaluation (ROSE) helps to improve the diagnostic accuracy in endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS) procedures. However, cytologists are seldom available to perform ROSE in many institutions. Recent studies have investigated the application of deep learning in cytologic image analysis. As such, the present study analyzed lung cytologic images obtained by EBUS procedures, and employed deep‐learning methods to distinguish between benign and malignant cells and to semantically segment malignant cells.

Methods

Ninety‐seven patients who underwent 104 EBUS procedures were enrolled. Four hundred and ninety‐nine lung cytologic images obtained via ROSE, including 425 malignant and 74 benign, and most malignant were lung adenocarcinoma (64.3%). All the images were used to train a residual network model with 101 layers (ResNet101), with suitable hyperparameters selected to classify benign and malignant lung cytologic images. An HRNet model was also employed to mark the area of malignant cells. Automatic patch‐cropping was adopted to facilitate dataset preparation.

Results

Malignant cells were successfully classified by ResNet101 with 98.8% classification accuracy, 98.8% sensitivity, and 98.8% specificity in patch‐based classification; 95.5% classification accuracy in image‐based classification; and 92.9% classification accuracy in patient‐based classification. Malignant cell area was successfully marked by HRNet with a mean intersection over union of 89.2%. The automatic cropping method enabled the system to complete diagnosis within 1 s.

Conclusions

This is the first study to combine lung cytologic image deep‐learning classification with semantic segmentation. The model was optimized for high accuracy and the automatic cropping facilitates the clinical application of our model. The success in both lung cytologic images classification and semantic segmentation on our dataset shows a promising result for clinical application in the future.
New Trends and Future Opportunities in the Enzymatic Formation of C−C, C−N, and C−O bonds
Authors: Sangster Jack J. , Marshall James R. , Turner Nicholas J. , Mangas‐Sanchez Juan
Published: November 2021

Organic chemistry provides society with fundamental products we use daily. Concerns about the impact that the chemical industry has over the environment is propelling major changes in the way we manufacture chemicals. Biocatalysis offers an alternative to other synthetic approaches as it employs enzymes, Nature's catalysts, to carry out chemical transformations. Enzymes are biodegradable, come from renewable sources, operate under mild reaction conditions, and display high selectivities in the processes they catalyse. As a highly multidisciplinary field, biocatalysis benefits from advances in different areas, and developments in the fields of molecular biology, bioinformatics, and chemical engineering have accelerated the extension of the range of available transformations (E. L. Bell et al., Nat. Rev. Meth. Prim. 2021, 1, 1–21). Recently, we surveyed advances in the expansion of the scope of biocatalysis via enzyme discovery and protein engineering (J. R. Marshall et al., Tetrahedron 2021, 82, 131926). Herein, we focus on novel enzymes currently available to the broad synthetic community for the construction of new C−C, C−N and C−O bonds, with the purpose of providing the non‐specialist with new and alternative tools for chiral and sustainable chemical synthesis.
A Combinatorial Electrode for High‐Throughput, High‐Entropy Alloy Screening
Authors: Huang Jian , Shi Hao , Ma Yongsong , Yin Huayi , Wang Dihua
Published: November 2021

High‐entropy alloys (HEAs) have emerged as a promising material category with at least four primary metal ingredients. There are more than 90 types of metals in the periodic table, and thus the number of HEAs is huge if these elements are randomly grouped. In this regard, screening HEAs in an efficient way remains a challenge. Herein, we designed a combinatorial electrode that contains 8 or 28 sample holders in one electrode. In other words, we can prepare 8 or 28 different HEAs under the same conditions in one batch of electrolysis. The interaction between the electrode arrays was investigated. Simulations and inductively coupled plasma (ICP) results show that the composition of the electrolytic HEAs at every sample holder can be accurately controlled, because the oxide precursors and electrolytic products are insoluble in the molten salt. Therefore, a combinatorial electrode enables a high‐throughput way to prepare HEAs, which speeds up materials screening.
The Appeal of Small Molecules for Practical Nonlinear Optics
Authors: Biaggio Ivan
Published: November 2021

Small organic molecules with a π‐conjugated system that consists of only a few double or triple bonds can have significantly smaller optical excitation energies when equipped with donor and acceptor groups, which raises the quantum limits to the molecular polarizabilities. As a consequence, third‐order nonlinear optical polarizabilities become orders of magnitude larger than those of molecules of similar size without donor‐acceptor substitution. This enables strong third‐order nonlinear optical effects (as high as 1000 times those of silica glass) in dense, amorphous monolithic assemblies. These properties, accompanied by the possibility of deposition from the vapor phase and of electric‐field poling at higher temperatures, make the resulting materials competitive towards adding an active nonlinear optical or electro‐optic functionality to state‐of‐the‐art integrated photonics platforms.
Pd‐Catalyzed Heck‐Type Reactions of Allenes for Stereoselective Syntheses of Substituted 1,3‐Dienes
Authors: Vine Logan E. , Schomaker Jennifer M.
Published: November 2021

A highly stereoselective Pd‐catalyzed Heck‐type reaction of allenes in which the stereochemistry of both olefins is set simultaneously was developed. The ligand CyJohnPhos was crucial to achieving stereoselectivity, while minimizing isomerization of the starting material through hydropalladation. The stereodetermining factors were proposed to be A1,3 strain between the catalyst and allene substituent, which influences the σ‐π‐σ equilibrium of the coupled allene intermediate, as well as eclipsing interactions of R groups in the β‐hydride elimination. Good functional group tolerance and stereoselectivities for formation of the Z,E isomer were demonstrated. The methodology was further expanded to include the regioselective formation of 2,4‐dienoates and 2,4‐dienamides with a variety of substitution patterns, albeit in reduced stereoselectivities favoring the E,E isomer. A plausible mechanism is proposed to account for the observed selectivities and substituent effects.
Chiral symmetry conservation principle
Authors: López‐Castillo Alejandro
Published: November 2021

We show a chiral symmetry conservation principle based on chemical kinetics using stochastic results. Suppose the chiral symmetry conservation is evoked, and our universe can be considered globally asymmetric. In that case, there are at least two mirrored asymmetric universes if all the chiral properties are strongly correlated. However, if the chiral correlations are weak or nonexistent, there are possibly Many‐(Chiral‐Symmetry)‐Worlds. Alternatively, if our universe is only locally asymmetric, there could be a single universe with segregated chiral regions. The possible mechanisms of the primordial chiral symmetry breaking can only be found if the chiral symmetry is not truly conserved by assuming the initial racemic conditions. In that case, our universe is asymmetric and could be alone. On the other hand, if the chiral symmetry is conserved, there is no chance of finding the primordial chiral symmetry breaking. Based on this conservation (or not), it is possible to infer two opposite hypotheses, where two general scenarios about the chiral universes are possible.
Tolerability of bevacizumab and chemotherapy in a phase 3 clinical trial with human epidermal growth factor receptor 2–negative breast cancer: A trajectory analysis of adverse events
Authors: Ip Edward H. , Saldana Santiago , Miller Kathy D. , Carlos Ruth C. , Gareen Ilana F. , Sparano Joseph A. , Graham Noah , Zhao Fengmin , Lee Ju‐Whei , O’Connell Nathaniel S. , Cella David , Peipert John D. , Gray Robert J. , Wagner Lynne I.
Published: November 2021

Background

E5103 was a study designed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of bevacizumab. It was a negative trial for the end points of invasive disease–free survival and overall survival. The current work examines the tolerability of bevacizumab and other medication exposures with respect to clinical outcomes and patient‐reported outcomes (PROs).

Methods

Adverse events (AEs) collected from the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events were summarized to form an AE profile at each treatment cycle. All‐grade and high‐grade events were separately analyzed. The change in the AE profile over the treatment cycle was delineated as distinct AE trajectory clusters. AE‐related and any‐reason early treatment discontinuations were treated as clinical outcome measures. PROs were measured with the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy–Breast + Lymphedema. The relationships between the AE trajectory and early treatment discontinuation as well as PROs were analyzed.

Results

More than half of all AEs (57.5%) were low‐grade. A cluster of patients with broad and mixed AE (all‐grade) trajectory grades was significantly associated with any‐reason early treatment discontinuation (odds ratio [OR], 2.87; P = .01) as well as AE‐related discontinuation (OR, 4.14; P = .001). This cluster had the highest count of all‐grade AEs per cycle in comparison with other clusters. Another cluster of patients with primary neuropathic AEs in their trajectories had poorer physical well‐being in comparison with a trajectory of no or few AEs (P < .01). A high‐grade AE trajectory did not predict discontinuations.

Conclusions

A sustained and cumulative burden of across‐the‐board toxicities, which were not necessarily all recognized as high‐grade AEs, contributed to early treatment discontinuation. Patients with neuropathic all‐grade AEs may require additional attention for preventing deterioration in their physical well‐being.
Increased health‐related quality of life impairments of male and female survivors of childhood cancer: DCCSS LATER 2 psycho‐oncology study
Authors: van Gorp Marloes , van Erp Loes M. E. , Maas Anne , Kremer Leontien C. M. , van Dulmen‐den Broeder Eline , Tissing Wim J. E. , Loonen Jacqueline J. , van der Pal Helena J. H. , de Vries Andrica C. H. , van den Heuvel‐Eibrink Marry M. , Ronckers Cécile M. , Bresters Dorine , Louwerens Marloes , van der Heiden‐van der Loo Margriet , Huizinga Gea A. , Maurice‐Stam Heleen , Grootenhuis Martha A. ,   for the Dutch LATER Study Group
Published: November 2021

Background

The objective of this study was to compare the health‐related quality of life (HRQOL) of Dutch adult male and female childhood cancer survivors (CCSs) to general population references and to study medical determinants.

Methods

CCSs from the Dutch Childhood Cancer Survivor Study LATER cohort (1963‐2001) part 2, who were 18 years old or older (time since diagnosis ≥ 5 years), were invited to complete the TNO‐AZL Questionnaire for Adult Health‐Related Quality of Life. Domain scores and proportions of CCSs with impaired HRQOL (score < 25th percentile of the reference scores) were compared with references via Mann‐Whitney U tests and logistic regression analyses corrected for age and sex (P < .004). Interactions of group with sex were included if they were significant (P < .05). Moreover, medical determinants were analyzed with multivariable logistic regression analyses.

Results

HRQOL scores for 1766 CCSs (mean age, 35.9 years [standard deviation, 9.4 years]; male, 51%; response rate, 71%) differed from references on most domains with small effect sizes. Both male and female CCSs were more often impaired in gross and fine motor functioning, cognitive functioning, sleep, and vitality with odds ratios (ORs) > 1.4. In addition, female CCSs were more often impaired in daily activities, pain, and sexuality (ORs, 1.4‐1.9) and were less often aggressive (OR, 0.6). CCCs of central nervous system (CNS) tumors, bone tumors, and retinoblastoma and those with cranial, abdominopelvic, or lower extremity radiotherapy were at increased risk of impairment in 1 or more domains.

Conclusions

Dutch adult CCSs, especially females, have impaired HRQOL in several domains; this is most pronounced in cognitive functioning. The vulnerabilities of subgroups at risk, such as CCSs of CNS tumors, were confirmed. Surveillance of HRQOL and multidisciplinary survivor care are recommended.

Lay Summary

The health‐related quality of life in a Dutch nationwide cohort of 1766 survivors of childhood cancer was studied.

Survivors of childhood cancer were found to have lower health‐related quality of life in several domains (eg, motor functioning and vitality) in comparison with the general population.

They most often reported low cognitive functioning (eg, memory and attention).

Females had low health‐related quality of life in more domains than males.

Survivors of brain tumors had low health‐related quality of life in most domains.

Monitoring health‐related quality of life regularly and collaborating between disciplines in survivor care is recommended.
EPR Characterisation of Phthalocyanine Radical Anions in Near‐Infrared Photocleavage of the Hydrophilic Axial Ligand of a Photoimmunotherapeutic Reagent, IR700
Authors: Inanami Osamu , Hiraoka Wakako , Goto Yuto , Takakura Hideo , Ogawa Mikako
Published: November 2021

Photoimmunotherapy (PIT) is a novel cancer therapy that utilises tumour‐specific monoclonal antibodies coupled with a silicon phthalocyanine derivative with biaxial ligands (IR700). Near‐infrared (NIR)‐induced cleavage of these axial ligands induces the aggregation of IR700 on the cell membrane, resulting in cell death. Using electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy and computer spectral simulation, NIR irradiation of the IR700 aqueous solution under hypoxia revealed induced IR700 anion radicals in the presence of an electron donor. Two types of IR700 anion radicals with different anisotropies were identified as the precursors of the two‐step NIR‐induced cleavage reaction of the axial ligand of IR700. Under aerobic conditions, NIR irradiation of IR700 aqueous solution with and without the electron donor produced 1O2 and O2.−, respectively. These results suggest that NIR‐induced IR700 anion radicals are important for inducing the aggregation of IR700 and O2.−.
Tapped inductor based switched boost inverter: Analysis and implementation
Authors: Davaranhagh Elshan , Babaei Ebrahim , Sabahi Mehran , Shahmohamadi Sima
Published: November 2021

In a Z‐source inverter, an inductor‐capacitor (LC) impedance network is used between the inverter bridge and the power source. These inverters can be used in boost and buck modes. Other advantages of this structure include resistance to electromagnetic interference (EMI) disturbances compared with conventional voltage source inverter (VSI). However, the LC impedance network significantly increases the size and cost of the power converter. Therefore, these converters are not suitable for low power applications. In this paper, a switched Z‐source inverter with the capability of high voltage gain by using coupling inductors is proposed. One of the main features of this structure is improving the boost factor and improving the inverter voltage gain without changing the duty cycle. A complete analysis of the inverter performance and a comprehensive comparison of its features concerning different structures are provided. Finally, in order to confirm the accuracy of the inverter operation, its laboratory results are presented.
Microparticle‐initiated electron emission and subsequent gas breakdown
Authors: Zhong Wei , Xu Ao , Shi Yuanjie , Jin Dazhi , Chen Lei
Published: November 2021

Microparticle‐initiated breakdown phenomena in gas gap have obtained extensive research interest and micro‐gap discharge is convinced to play a key role. To illustrate this, this paper focused on microparticle‐initiated electron emission and subsequent gas breakdown process in a nitrogen gap. Analytic results of the electric field distribution between the charged microparticle and electrode surface are obtained by using the image method first. Results indicate that for the typical microparticles (R < 20 μm) from electrode erosion, when the micro‐gap distance h is lower than 2 μm, the maximum enhanced field strength could exceed 3 × 107 V/m. Based on this, a two‐dimensional axis‐symmetry numerical model is calculated by using the particle‐in‐cell coupling with Monte Carlo method and the charged microparticle is positioned near anode and cathode separately. In both cases, the local enhanced electron emission between microparticle and electrode surface is the key to initiate the final gas breakdown. The breakdown near cathode is electron‐dominated, which could accomplish in several nanoseconds. The breakdown near anode is ion‐dominated, which needs stronger field enhancement factor or longer breakdown time and would be harder to occur in reality.
Optimal DBN‐based distributed attack detection model for Internet of Things
Authors: Ramesh Babu Meenigi , Veena Kalludi Narasimhaiah
Published: November 2021

This paper introduces a new detection mechanism for defending the cyberspace with a new logic that aiding the concept of deep learning. The process involves two phases, namely, feature extraction and classification. The initial phase is the feature extraction, in which the features are extracted from the given input data by the renowned principal component analysis (PCA). Subsequently, the extracted features are subjected to the classification phase, where the deep belief network (DBN) model is used. The DBN model classifies the presence of attacks like denial of service (DoS), probe, R2L, and U2R. In order to make the performance more excellent, this paper diverts the strategy to a new concept termed “Optimization Concept.” Here, the hidden neuron of DBN is optimally selected by a new algorithm termed novel mutation rate‐based lion algorithm (NMR‐LA), which is the modified model of lion algorithm (LA). The performance of proposed algorithm NMR‐LA is compared over the conventional models in terms of both positive and negative measures like accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, precision, negative predictive value (NPV), F1 score and Mathews correlation coefficient (MCC), false‐positive rate (FPR), false‐negative rate (FNR), and false‐discovery rate (FDR) and proves the betterments of proposed work.
Hierarchical and Hybrid Cell Load Balancing in 5G Heterogeneous Mobile Networks
Authors: Aruna Kumari P. , Santi Prabha I.
Published: November 2021

In Fifth Generation (5G) Heterogeneous Mobile Networks (HetNets), deploying dense small cell networks makes user association more challenging. The process of collecting cell load information from the User Equipments (UEs) and broadcasting the feedback message involves significant overhead and time complexity. Moreover, the UEs may not know the optimum cell to reselect, satisfying its data rate requirements. In order to overcome these drawbacks, in this paper, we propose to design an Hierarchical and Hybrid Cell Load Balancing (HHCLB) technique using Selective Handoff. In this technique, the UEs of each cell are grouped into clusters depending on their proximity distance. Each cluster contains a cluster controller (CC) which is in charge of determining the intra‐cell load and redirecting the cell‐reselection request of a UE. If the data rate of any UE in a cluster becomes less than its required rate, then the cell reselection process is performed. By simulation results, it is shown that load balancing can be done proactively (implicitly) by the CCs when the load is unbalanced or can be done on demand (explicitly) when a UE send a request for cell reselection. In the case of Macro cells, HHCLB attains 71% higher throughput for low load scenario and 59% higher throughput for high load scenario. Similarly, in the case of Femto cells, HHCLB attains 19% higher throughput for low load scenario and 27% higher throughput for high load scenario.
Achalasia with esophageal intramural hematoma treated by per‐oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM)
Authors: Fujiyoshi Yusuke , Fujiyoshi Mary Raina Angeli , Kimura Ryusuke , Shinohara Hiroki , Nishikawa Yohei , Shimamura Yuto , Ikeda Haruo , Onimaru Manabu , Inoue Haruhiro
Published: November 2021

Esophageal intramural hematoma (EIH) is a condition which occurs as a result of hemorrhage within the esophageal wall including the submucosal layer. However, reports of EIH on achalasia patients are quite limited and per‐oral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) for achalasia with EIH has not been reported. This is the first case report that demonstrated a successful treatment of achalasia with EIH by POEM. In achalasia, since there is absence of lower esophageal sphincter relaxation, as barotraumatic pathogenesis, an increase in the intraesophageal pressure may cause EIH. As direct traumatic pathogenesis, the stasis of food may directly injure the esophageal wall resulting in EIH. After confirming the hematoma healed until it became an ulcer, POEM was performed on the posterior axis since the intramural hematoma was located anteriorly. The procedure was completed successfully without any occurrence of adverse events. On 2‐months follow‐up, improvement in dysphagia was noted, and complete epithelialization of the intramural hematoma region was seen on endoscopic examination. On 1‐year follow‐up, patient did not have recurrence of dysphagia and intramural hematoma. In summary, we reported a case of achalasia with EIH, which was treated by POEM. POEM procedure may be effective not only for the improvement of dysphagia but also for a better ulcer healing and prevention of intramural hematoma recurrence.
European common frog (Rana temporaria) recolonized Switzerland from multiple glacial refugia in northern Italy via trans‐ and circum‐Alpine routes
Authors: Jansen van Rensburg Alexandra , Robin Mathieu , Phillips Barret , Van Buskirk Josh
Published: November 2021

The high mountain ranges of Western Europe had a profound effect on the biotic recolonization of Europe from glacial refugia. The Alps present a particularly interesting case because they form an absolute barrier to dispersal for most taxa, obstructing recolonization from multiple refugia in northern Italy. Here, we investigate the effect of the European Alps on the phylogeographic history of the European common frog Rana temporaria. Based on partial cytochrome b and COXI sequences from Switzerland, we find two mitochondrial lineages roughly north and south of the Alpine ridge, with contact zones between them in eastern and western Switzerland. The northern haplogroup falls within the previously identified Western European haplogroup, while the southern haplogroup is unique to Switzerland. We find that the lineages diverged ~110 kya, at approximately the onset of the last glacial glaciation; this indicates that they are from different glacial refugia. Phylogenetic analyses suggest that the northern and southern haplogroups colonized Switzerland via trans‐ and circum‐Alpine routes from at least two separate refugia in northern Italy. Our results illustrate how a complex recolonization history of the central European Alps can arise from the semi‐permeable barrier created by high mountains.
Molecular ratio of mature B‐type natriuretic peptide in acute heart failure: an indicator for ventricular contractile recovery
Authors: Kimura Akihisa , Takahama Hiroyuki , Nishikimi Toshio , Takashio Seiji , Hayashi Tomohiro , Nagai‐Okatani Chiaki , Nakagawa Yasuaki , Yasuda Satoshi , Anzai Toshihisa , Minamino Naoto , Izumi Chisato
Published: November 2021

Aims

The methodology to distinguish between the heart failure (HF) with recovered ejection fraction (HFrecEF) and those with continuously reduced ejection fraction (EF) (HFcrEF) on admission has not been established. We recently demonstrated that the ratio of plasma levels of pro‐B‐type natriuretic peptide (proBNP) to total BNP (proBNP plus mature BNP) is decreased on admission in patients with mild acute HF, but not in severe acute HF as a compensatory mechanism for activating cyclic GMP via increases of bioactive mature BNP. We aimed to test the hypothesis that the ratio of bioactive mature BNP to total BNP is associated with reverse remodelling capacity in patients with HF with reduced EF.

Methods and results

Plasma proBNP and total BNP were measured in patients with acute decompensated HF by using specific and sensitive enzyme immunochemiluminescent assay. Estimated percent mature BNP (%emBNP) was calculated as ([total BNP − proBNP]/total BNP) × 100. We retrospectively identified the patients with reduced EF (≤40%, on admission) who had echocardiographic data after discharge (n = 93). We defined patients with increased EF by >10% during the follow‐up term (median, 545 days) after the admission as HFrecEF group. We compared patient characteristics, %emBNP, and other biomarkers between HFrecEF and HFcrEF. Of the enrolled patients with HFrecEF (n = 32) and HFcrEF (n = 61), on admission, %emBNP was significantly higher in HFrecEF than in HFcrEF (44.1% vs. 36.9%; P < 0.05). There were no significant differences in left ventricular EF on admission between the two groups. The univariate analysis revealed that %emBNP on admission was associated with HFrecEF occurrence rate (P < 0.05), in contrast both total BNP and high‐sensitive cardiac troponin‐T levels were not associated with HFrecEF occurrence rate.

Conclusions

The ratio of mature BNP to total BNP in plasma at the time of hospital admission may be predictive of left ventricular contractile recovery. Preservation of the capacity to convert proBNP to mature BNP, but not myocardial injury itself, is associated with future ventricular contractile recovery.
Proton Radiation Hardness of Perovskite Solar Cells Utilizing a Mesoporous Carbon Electrode
Authors: Hughes Declan , Meroni Simone M. P. , Barbé Jérémy , Raptis Dimitrios , Lee Harrison K. H. , Heasman Keith C. , Lang Felix , Watson Trystan M. , Tsoi Wing C.
Published: November 2021

When designing spacefaring vehicles and orbital instrumentation, the onboard systems such as microelectronics and solar cells require shielding to protect them from degradation brought on by collisions with high‐energy particles. Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have been shown to be much more radiation stable than Si and GaAs devices, while also providing the ability to be fabricated on flexible substrates. However, even PSCs have their limits, with higher fluences being a cause of degradation. Herein, a novel solution utilizing a screen‐printed, mesoporous carbon electrode to act bi‐functionally as an encapsulate and the electrode is presented. It is demonstrated that the carbon electrode PSCs can withstand proton irradiation up to 1 × 1015 protons cm−2at 150 KeV with negligible losses (<0.07%) in power conversion efficiency. The 12 μm thick electrode acts as efficient shielding for the perovskite embedded in the mesoporous TiO2. Through Raman and photoluminescence spectroscopy, results suggest that the structural properties of the perovskite and carbon remain intact. Simulations of the device structure show that superior radiation protection comes in conjunction with good device performance. This work highlights the potential of using a carbon electrode for future space electronics which is not limited to only solar cells.
Health insurance and subjective well‐being: Evidence from two healthcare reforms in the United States
Authors: Kim Seonghoon , Koh Kanghyock
Published: November 2021

We study the role of access to health insurance coverage as a determinant of individuals' subjective well‐being (SWB) by analyzing large‐scale healthcare reforms in the United States. Using data from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System and Panel Study of Income Dynamics, we find that the 2006 Massachusetts reform and 2014 Affordable Care Act Medicaid expansion improved the overall life satisfaction of Massachusetts residents and low‐income adults in Medicaid expansion states, respectively. The results are robust to various sensitivity and falsification tests. Our findings imply that access to health insurance plays an important role in improving SWB. Without considering psychological benefits, the actual benefits of health insurance may be underemphasized.
Biomarkers of human papillomavirus (HPV)‐driven head and neck cancer in Latin America and Europe study: Study design and HPV DNA/p16INK4a status
Authors: Sichero Laura , Tagliabue Marta , Mota Giana , Ferreira Silvaneide , Nunes Rafaella A. L. , Castañeda Carlos Arturo , Castillo Miluska , Correa Rita Mariel , Perdomo Sandra , Rodríguez‐Urrego Paula A. , Matos Leandro Luongo , Mohssen Ansarin , Gheit Tarik , Tommasino Massimo , Chiocca Susanna , Villa Luisa Lina ,   HEADLAcE Study Group
Published: November 2021

Background

Human papillomavirus (HPV)‐driven head/neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCC) prevalence varies globally. We evaluated HPV DNA and p16INK4a in formalin fixed paraffin embedded (FFPE) HNSCC from Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, and Peru.

Methods

HPV was genotyped by PCR‐hybridization. All HPV DNA positive and some HPV DNA negative cases underwent p16INK4a immunohistochemistry.

Results

HPV DNA was detected in 32.8%, 11.1%, and 17.8% of oropharyngeal (OPC), oral cavity (OCC) and laryngeal (LC) cancers, respectively. OPC HPV prevalence was higher in Colombia (94.7%), and Argentina (42.6%) compared to Brazil (10.6%) and Peru (0.0%). HPV‐16 was the most detected. Other HPVs were found in LC. Higher rates of p16INK4a positivity were observed among HPV positive OPC/OCC cases compared to LC cases.

Conclusions

Our results support a role for HPV‐16 in a subset of HNSCC, corroborate the heterogeneity observed in samples from different countries, and contribute additional etiological and biomarkers information in tumors of significant impact worldwide.
Front Cover
Authors: Larios Gustavo , Ribeiro Matheus , Arruda Carla , Oliveira Samuel L. , Canassa Thalita , Baker Matthew J. , Marangoni Bruno , Ramos Carlos , Cena Cícero
Published: November 2021

A new, fast and accurate method for Leishmaniasis diagnosis in dogs was developed by using canine blood serum infrared absorption data and artificial intelligence. Traditional tests usually show low specificity due to cross‐reaction with other diseases, use of chemicals and high cost. The new method is free of chemical reagents, easy to handle, low cost, and high specificity. Further details can be found in the article by Gustavo Larios, Matheus Ribeiro, Carla Arruda, Samuel L. Oliveira, Thalita Canassa, Matthew J. Baker, Bruno Marangoni, Carlos Ramos, and Cícero Cena (e202100141).

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Inside Front Cover
Authors: Guo Hongbo , Zhao Hengna , Yu Jingjing , He Xiaowei , He Xuelei , Song Xiaolei
Published: November 2021

This study adopted a hybrid diffusion equation with third order simplified spherical harmonics model and proposed a novel Least Square QR factorization based on the Lasso algorithm to overcome the limitation of the single proton propagation model and enable fast iteration and accurate sparse reconstruction for X‐ray Luminescence Computed Tomography (XLCT). It achieves superior reconstruction performance in terms of location accuracy, spatial resolution and materializes a balance between accuracy and efficiency.

Further details can be found in the article by Hongbo Guo, Hengna Zhao, Jingjing Yu, Xiaowei He, Xuelei He, and Xiaolei Song (e202100089).

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G‐CSF as a potential early biomarker for diagnosis of bloodstream infection
Authors: Li Huimin , Wang Zhen , Li Xuehua
Published: November 2021

Background

Cytokines play an important role in bacterial infection, and thus, we aim to find out cytokines that may be diagnostically significant in early stage of bacterial bloodstream infection.

Methods

Mice models infected with Staphylococcus aureus and Klebsiella pneumoniae were established. Then dynamic changes of nine serum cytokines were monitored within 48 hours after the infection. Cytokines with significant differences between the infected groups and control group were further analyzed. Clinical samples of patients who were suspected of bloodstream infection were collected. Then the diagnostic efficiency of screened cytokines was determined with receiver operating characteristic curve analysis.

Results

As for mice models infected by Staphylococcus aureus and Klebsiella pneumoniae, six cytokines including IL‐1β, IL‐6, IL‐12p70, G‐CSF, IFN‐γ, and TNF‐α were significantly different (P < .05) between two bacterial infected groups. As for clinical samples, three cytokines including IL‐6, IL‐12p70, and G‐CSF showed significant differences between infection group (Staphylococcus aureus and Klebsiella pneumonia group) and negative control group. With the area under curve of 0.7350 and 0.6431 for G‐CSF and IL‐6, respectively, these two cytokines were significantly different between Staphylococcus aureus and Klebsiella pneumoniae infection groups. Combination of G‐CSF and IL‐6 could improve the AUC to 0.8136.

Conclusions

G‐CSF cannot only identify bacterial bloodstream infection, but can also distinguish the infection of Staphylococcus aureus from Klebsiella pneumoniae. Further investigation should be performed concerning the diagnostic efficiency of G‐CSF in diagnosing different types of bacterial bloodstream infection.
Mental health among Latinx emerging adults: Examining the role of familial accusations of assimilation and ethnic identity
Authors: Thornhill Carly W. , Castillo Linda G. , Piña‐Watson Brandy , Manzo Gabriela , Cano Miguel Ángel
Published: November 2021

Objective

The aims of this study are to investigate (1) how family response to acculturation (e.g., accusations of assimilation) is related to anxiety and depressive symptomatology for Latinx emerging adults. This study's goal is also to analyze (2) the extent to which ethnic identity components and gender moderate the respective associations.

Method

Cross‐sectional survey was completed by 200 Latinx emerging adults. Inclusion criteria involved reading English, ages 18–25, currently reside in Maricopa or Miami‐Dade Counties and self‐identify as Latinx. Analysis used hierarchical multiple regression and moderation analyses.

Results

Findings indicate that higher familial accusations of assimilation were associated with higher symptoms of depression and anxiety. Moderation analyses indicate that gender had a statistically significant interaction with accusations of assimilation in relation to symptoms of both depression and anxiety. A significant three‐way interaction between ethnic identity exploration, gender, and intracultural accusations of assimilation in relation to symptoms of depression interaction among men was found.

Conclusion

Findings from the study add to literature on the effect of intragroup marginalization on Latinx mental health and highlight gender differences. The ethnic identity component of exploration is found to be a protective factor for men which wanes over increasing levels of accusation of assimilation.
Palyno‐anatomical characters and their systematic significance in the family Apiaceae from Chitral, eastern Hindu Kush, Pakistan
Authors: Birjees Maimoona , Ahmad Mushtaq , Zafar Muhammad , Khan Aamir Shehzad , Ullah Izhar
Published: November 2021

The present study was performed to provide a detailed explanation of leaf epidermal anatomy and pollen micromorphological features of selected species of family Apiaceae from Chitral, eastern Hindu Kush region as the basis of forthcoming studies. In the present article pollen morphology of eight species and foliar epidermal of seven species of family Apiaceae have been examined through microscopic techniques. In results two types of pollen prolate (five species) and perprolate (three species) with three colpi have been recorded. The exine ornamentation was found to be regulate, striate, and cerebroid. Largest pollen was found in Heracleum leucocarpum with the polar diameter of 43.25 μm and equatorial diameter of 21.6 μm. Smallest pollen was observed in Elaeosticta chitralica with the polar diameter of 18.4 μm. The P/E ratio varied from 1.59 to 2.16. Regarding to foliar epidermal anatomy, three types of epidermal cells including rectangular, irregular, and polygonal with variation in anticlinal wall pattern were determined. In the selected species three kinds of stomata comprising anisocytic, anomocytic, and paracytic type were reported in the current research. The size of epidermal cells ranged from 106 × 42.50 μm in Bupleurum falcatum subsp. cernuum and 77.25 × 26.35 μm in Prangos pabularia in adaxial surface. Largest stomatal complex was found in Prangos pabularia both in adaxial 33.55 × 20.05 μm and abaxial 50.25 × 39.40 μm. All the observed quantitative and qualitative features of the species were proved to be useful in the delimitation of species at generic and species level.
Genomic surveillance reveals the detection of SARS‐CoV‐2 delta, beta, and gamma VOCs during the third wave in Pakistan
Authors: Umair Massab , Ikram Aamer , Salman Muhammad , Haider Syed Adnan , Badar Nazish , Rehman Zaira , Ammar Muhammad , Rana Muhammad Suleman , Ali Qasim
Published: November 2021

SARS‐CoV‐2 variants of concern (VOCs) have emerged worldwide and gained significant importance due to their high transmissibility and global spread, thus meriting close monitoring. In Pakistan, limited information is available on circulation of these variants as the alpha variant has been reported the main circulating lineage. The current study was designed to detect and explore the genomic diversity of SARS‐CoV‐2 lineages circulating during the third wave of the pandemic in the indigenous population. From May 01 to June 09, 2021, a total of 16 689 samples were tested using TaqPath™ COVID‐19 kit for the presence of SARS‐CoV‐2. Overall, 2562 samples (15.4%) were COVID‐19 positive. Out of these positive samples, 2124 (12.7%) did not show the spike gene amplification (spike gene target failure ([SGTF]), whereas 438 (2.6%) showed spike gene amplification (non‐SGTF). A subset (n = 58/438) of non‐SGTF samples were randomly selected for whole‐genome sequencing. Among VOCs, 45% (n = 26/58) were delta, 46% (n = 27/58) were beta, and one was gamma variant. The delta variant cases were reported mainly from Islamabad (n = 15; 58%) followed by Rawalpindi and Azad Kashmir (n = 1; 4% each). Beta variant cases originated mainly from Karachi (n = 8; 30%) and Islamabad (n = 11; 41%) and the gamma variant case was reported in a traveler from Italy. The delta, beta, and gamma variants possessed lineage‐specific spike mutations. Notably, two rare mutations (E484Q and L5F) were found in the delta variant. Furthermore, in the beta variant, two significant rare non‐synonymous spike mutations (A879S and K444R) were also reported. High prevalence of beta and delta variants in local population may increase the number of cases in the near future and provides an early warning to national health authorities to take timely decisions and devise suitable interventions to contain a possible fourth wave.
Hybrid convergent ablation versus endocardial catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Mhanna Mohammed , Beran Azizullah , Al‐Abdouh Ahmad , Ayesh Hazem , Sajdeya Omar , Srour Omar , Alsaiqali Mahmoud , Alhasanat Odai H. , Burmeister Cameron , Abumoawad Abdelrhman M. , Chacko Paul
Published: November 2021

Introduction

Endocardial catheter ablation (ECA) for atrial fibrillation (AF) has limited efficacy. Hybrid convergent procedure (HCP) with both epicardial and endocardial ablation is a novel strategy for AF treatment. In this meta‐analysis, we aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of HCP in AF ablation.

Method

We performed a comprehensive literature search for studies that evaluated the efficacy and safety of HCP compared with ECA for AF. The primary outcome was freedom of atrial arrhythmia (AA). The secondary outcome was the periprocedural complication rate. Pooled relative risk (RR) and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using the random effects model.

Results

A total of eight studies, including 797 AF patients (mean age: 60.7 ± 9.8 years, 366 patients with HCP vs. 431 patients with ECA alone), were included. HCP showed a higher rate of freedom of AA compared with ECA (RR: 1.48, 95% CI: 1.13–1.94, p = .004). However, HCP was associated with higher rates of periprocedural complications (RR: 3.64, 95% CI: 2.06–6.43; p = .00001). Moreover, the HCP had a longer procedure time and postprocedural hospital stay.

Conclusions

Although hybrid ablation was associated with a higher success rate, this should be judged for increased periprocedural adverse events and extended hospital stay. Prospective large‐scale randomized trials are needed to validate these results.
Effect of some physical perturbations and their interplay on Raman spectral line shapes in silicon: A brief review
Authors: Kumar Rajesh , Tanwar Manushree
Published: November 2021

Raman spectroscopy is a proven versatile tool for characterization of materials spanning almost all areas of science because of its ability to non‐invasively extract information about materials. This technique is able to detect any perturbation in a system that can affect the phonons. A detailed discussion on various factors that affect the Raman line shape for a material has been summarized here by taking the example of silicon. Methods to identify the actual reason(s) behind the observed Raman spectral line shape have also been briefly discussed. Raman line shape obtained from silicon nanostructures when analyzed closely along with their bulk counterparts, reveals important information about the quantum confinement in such systems characterized by the Bohr's exciton radius. Raman line‐shape parameters are analyzed closely to understand the influence of any perturbation like quantum confinement, heavy doping, temperature rise, pressure, excitation wavelength, electron–phonon interaction, and so on. Current review briefly deals with the origin of asymmetric Raman line shapes in (nano‐) silicon due to various physical perturbations and their interplays, which becomes the origin of different line shapes. Advantages of using Raman microscopy in analyzing subtler physical processes taking place in a semiconductor have also been underlined.
The Association of Pulmonary Flow Characteristics With Cardiac Function in Tricuspid Valve Malformation Fetuses
Authors: Liu Juanjuan , Cao Haiyan , Cui Li , Zhang Yi , Song Xiaoyan , Ma Jing , Shi Jiawei , Zhang Li , Hong Liu , Xie Mingxing
Published: November 2021

Objectives

To explore the relationship between cardiac function and pulmonary flow characteristics in tricuspid valve malformation (TVM) fetuses by conventional and speckle tracking echocardiography.

Methods

Eighty‐eight TVM fetuses were retrospectively included and compared with 80 normal controls. TVM fetuses in each trimester were divided into two subgroups according to pulmonary flow characteristics: those with normal pulmonary flow (TVM‐N) and those with reduced or absent pulmonary flow (TVM‐R/A). Cardiac measurements, Celermajer index, and Simpson‐Andrews‐Sharland (SAS) score were obtained. Speckle tracking echocardiography was used to compute ventricular deformation parameters.

Results

TVM fetuses demonstrated significantly lower global longitudinal strain (GLS) and strain rate for both ventricles than controls (all P < .05). When compared with TVM‐N, left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction, LV fractional area change, right ventricular (RV) fractional area change, LVGLS, and RVGLS were significantly reduced (all P < .05), while the RV diameter Z‐score, RV/LV diameter, SAS score, and Celermajer index were obviously increased in TVM‐R/A in both trimesters (all P < .05). Both LVGLS and RVGLS correlated with cardiothoracic circumference ratio, RV diameter Z‐score, RV/LV diameter, Celermajer index, and SAS score (all P < .01). There was a slow decline for LVGLS and RVGLS in TVM‐N fetuses throughout the gestation. Conversely, these two parameters worsened rapidly in TVM‐R/A group.

Conclusions

TVM fetuses present biventricular dysfunction by deformation analysis in the second and third trimester of pregnancy. TVM fetuses with reduced or absent pulmonary flow exhibit significantly greater impairment and more rapid deterioration of cardiac function, which may contribute to poor outcomes.
MiR‐15a‐3p regulates ferroptosis via targeting glutathione peroxidase GPX4 in colorectal cancer
Authors: Liu Liurong , Yao Huihui , Zhou Xin , Chen Junjie , Chen Guoliang , Shi Xinyu , Wu Guanting , Zhou Guoqiang , He Songbing
Published: November 2021

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second most common cancer‐related deaths throughout the world. Ferroptosis is a recently regulated form of cell death, lately gains attention. MicroRNA‐15a‐3p (miR‐15a‐3p) plays a regulatory role in various kinds of cancers. However, the role of miR‐15a‐3p in cellular ferroptosis is still unclear. Here, we aimed to clarify whether miR‐15a‐3p could regulate the ferroptosis of CRC. Here we identified miR‐15a‐3p positively regulates ferroptosis via directly targeting glutathione peroxidase glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) in CRC. Overexpression of miR‐15a‐3p repressed GPX4 through binding to the 3′‐untranslated region of GPX4, resulting in increased reactive oxygen species level, intracellular Fe2+ level, and malondialdehyde accumulation in vitro and in vivo. Correspondingly, suppression of miR‐15a‐3p reduced the sensitivity of CRC cells to erastin and GPX4. Taken together, these data demonstrate that miR‐15a‐3p regulates ferroptosis through targeting GPX4 in CRC cells, illustrating the novel role of microRNA in ferroptosis.
The antiviral and immunomodulatory activities of propolis: An update and future perspectives for respiratory diseases
Authors: Magnavacca Andrea , Sangiovanni Enrico , Racagni Giorgio , Dell'Agli Mario
Published: November 2021

Propolis is a complex natural product that possesses antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, immunomodulatory, antibacterial, and antiviral properties mainly attributed to the high content in flavonoids, phenolic acids, and their derivatives. The chemical composition of propolis is multifarious, as it depends on the botanical sources from which honeybees collect resins and exudates. Nevertheless, despite this variability propolis may have a general pharmacological value, and this review systematically compiles, for the first time, the existing preclinical and clinical evidence of propolis activities as an antiviral and immunomodulatory agent, focusing on the possible application in respiratory diseases. In vitro and in vivo assays have demonstrated propolis broad‐spectrum effects on viral infectivity and replication, as well as the modulatory actions on cytokine production and immune cell activation as part of both innate and adaptive immune responses. Clinical trials confirmed propolis undeniable potential as an effective therapeutic agent; however, the lack of rigorous randomized clinical trials in the context of respiratory diseases is tangible. Since propolis is available as a dietary supplement, possible use for the prevention of respiratory diseases and their deleterious inflammatory drawbacks on the respiratory tract in humans is considered and discussed. This review opens up new perspectives on the clinical investigation of neglected propolis biological properties which, now more than ever, are particularly relevant with respect to the recent outbreaks of pandemic respiratory infections.