bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of Work Relative Value Units for Outpatient Pediatric and Adult Dermatology Encounters
Authors: Supapannachart Krittin J. , Wolner Zachary , Miller Allison E. , Comstock Jeanette R. , Di Mengyu , Lawley Leslie P. , Drolet Beth A. , Orenstein Lauren A. V.
Published: September 2022

Importance

Dermatologists with specialty training in pediatric dermatology are scarce, which can mean extended wait times and reduced access to care for patients. Lower compensation for pediatric dermatology visits compared with adult visits may affect physician career choice and contribute to workforce shortages.

Objective

To evaluate differences in work relative value units (wRVUs) generated by pediatric and adult outpatient dermatology encounters.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cross-sectional study used data from outpatient dermatology encounters at a single-site academic center in Atlanta, Georgia, from September 1, 2016, to March 31, 2020. Encounters with patients younger than 18 years were classified as pediatric, and encounters with those 18 years or older were classified as adult. Encounters with missing data were excluded as were those generating 0 wRVUs, inpatient visits, nursing visits, postoperative encounters, cosmetic procedures, phototherapy visits, and Mohs surgery encounters.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Work relative value units generated per encounter type were assessed through multivariable linear regression models adjusted for the potential confounder of sex.

Results

The study included 12 989 pediatric dermatology encounters (mean [SD] age, 7.3 [5.2] years; 7586 [58.4%] girls) and 78 057 adult dermatology encounters (mean [SD] age, 54.9 [18.9] years; 45 724 [58.6%] women). Pediatric encounters were associated with 0.23 (95% CI, 0.21-0.25; P < .001) fewer wRVUs than adult encounters after adjusting for sex. In a mediation analysis, biopsies and destruction of premalignant lesions explained 74.1% (95% CI, 69.6%-77.9%; P < .001) of the wRVU difference between pediatric and adult encounters.

Conclusions and Relevance

This cross-sectional study found significant differences in wRVUs generated between adult and pediatric dermatology encounters that were largely attributable to biopsies and destruction of premalignant lesions. Policies that increase the value of cognitive services to be on par with procedural care may mitigate wRVU differences and improve reimbursement for pediatric dermatologists.
Cost-effectiveness of an Emergency Department–Based Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Bassin Benjamin S. , Haas Nathan L. , Sefa Nana , Medlin Richard , Peterson Timothy A. , Gunnerson Kyle , Maxwell Steve , Cranford James A. , Laurinec Stephanie , Olis Christine , Havey Renee , Loof Robert , Dunn Patrick , Burrum Debra , Gegenheimer-Holmes Jennifer , Neumar Robert W.
Published: September 2022

Importance

Value in health care is quality per unit cost (V = Q/C), and an emergency department–based intensive care unit (ED-ICU) model has been associated with improved quality. To assess the value of this care delivery model, it is essential to determine the incremental direct cost of care.

Objective

To determine the association of an ED-ICU with inflation-adjusted change in mean direct cost of care, net revenue, and direct margin per ED patient encounter.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This retrospective economic analysis evaluated the cost of care delivery to patients in the ED before and after deployment of the Joyce and Don Massey Family Foundation Emergency Critical Care Center, an ED-ICU, on February 16, 2015, at a large academic medical center in the US with approximately 75 000 adult ED visits per year. The pre–ED-ICU cohort was defined as all documented ED visits by patients 18 years or older with a complete financial record from September 8, 2012, through June 30, 2014 (660 days); the post–ED-ICU cohort, all visits from July 1, 2015, through April 21, 2017 (660 days). Fiscal year 2015 was excluded from analysis to phase in the new care model. Statistical analysis was performed March 1 through December 30, 2021.

Exposures

Implementation of an ED-ICU.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Inflation-adjusted direct cost of care, net revenue, and direct margin per patient encounter in the ED.

Results

A total of 234 884 ED visits during the study period were analyzed, with 115 052 patients (54.7% women) in the pre–ED-ICU cohort and 119 832 patients (54.5% women) in the post–ED-ICU cohort. The post–ED-ICU cohort was older (mean [SD] age, 49.1 [19.9] vs 47.8 [19.6] years;P < .001), required more intensive respiratory support (2.2% vs 1.1%;P < .001) and more vasopressor use (0.5% vs 0.2%;P < .001), and had a higher overall case mix index (mean [SD], 1.7 [2.0] vs 1.5 [1.7];P < .001). Implementation of the ED-ICU was associated with similar inflation-adjusted total direct cost per ED encounter (pre–ED-ICU, mean [SD], $4875 [$15 175]; post–ED-ICU, $4877 [$17 400];P = .98). Inflation-adjusted net revenue per encounter increased by 7.0% (95% CI, 3.4%-10.6%;P < .001), and inflation-adjusted direct margin per encounter increased by 46.6% (95% CI, 32.1%-61.2%;P < .001).

Conclusions and Relevance

Implementation of an ED-ICU was associated with no significant change in inflation-adjusted total direct cost per ED encounter. Holding delivery costs constant while improving quality demonstrates improved value via the ED-ICU model of care.
Same-Day Discharge After Minimally Invasive Colectomy
Authors: Lee Lawrence , McLemore Elisabeth , Rashidi Laila
Published: September 2022

This article describes elements of a same-day discharge program for minimally invasive colectomy as an evolution of enhanced recovery pathways for colorectal surgery.
Vertical distribution of seismic design load for seismically isolated buildings corresponding to diversity of seismic isolation devices
Authors: Kobayashi Masahito , Tanizaki Gou , Matsuda Shingo
Published: September 2022

This paper proposes a vertical distribution of seismic design load of seismically isolated buildings corresponding to diversity of seismic isolation devices such as hysteretic dampers and/or velocity‐dependent dampers. This proposed method is obtained from the relationship between response amplification caused by higher‐mode responses and key parameters such as Isolation ratio and Non‐linearity factor which evaluate structural characteristics of seismically isolated buildings. This response amplification is explained by nonlinear modal analysis with free‐free vibration mode. In addition, it is confirmed that this proposed method adapts to various model of seismically isolated buildings.
The contribution of alternative habitats for conservation of plant species associated with threatened semi‐natural grasslands
Authors: Johansen Line , Henriksen Marie V. , Wehn Sølvi
Published: September 2022

Conservation of species associated with semi‐natural grasslands, a threatened habitat, is dependent on their ability to disperse between the few and fragmented patches remaining in the landscape. To maintain metapopulations dynamics and reduce the risk of regional extinction, it is essential to know whether other, more widespread, habitats can act as alternative habitat for the biodiversity associated with threatened habitats.

Here, we study how four widespread habitat types in boreal landscapes—forest, permanent grassland, abandoned grassland and road verge—can contribute to the conservation of plant species found in semi‐natural grasslands which is a species‐rich ecosystem important for plant and pollinator diversity that has experienced extensive reduction, fragmentation and isolation. We compare richness of all vascular plants, insect‐pollinated plants and semi‐natural grassland specialists among habitat types in two regions is Norway where semi‐natural grasslands are few and fragmented.

Based on overlap in community composition and local species richness, road verges were the most promising alternative habitat for both insect‐pollinated plants and semi‐natural grasslands specialists. Several habitat specialist species were, however, only found in semi‐natural grasslands and, for these species, no other habitat can be considered suitable as alternative habitat.

Our results highlight that a holistic management perspective is needed to maintain biodiversity associated with semi‐natural grasslands. Thus, both the protection of remaining patches of the primary, threatened habitats as well as management of widespread, alternative habitats in the landscape should be prioritized.
Ruthenium‐Catalyzed CH Activation in Target Oriented Synthesis of Natural Products and Active Pharmaceutical Intermediates
Authors: Kommagalla Yadagiri , Ramana Chepuri V.
Published: September 2022

In this article, some of the ruthenium‐catalyzed directed and nondirected CH activation led functionalizations, such as alkylation, alkenylation, arylation, and amidation, which have been elegantly applied in the synthesis of various natural products and active pharmaceutical intermediates (API), has been described. Along with this, the novel approaches like the transient directing group (TDG) and chiral transient directing group (CTDC) aided asymmetric synthesis of the key intermediates employed in a total synthesis have been also narrated. In the majority of the cases, readily available inexpensive and air tolerant [RuCl
2
(
p
‐cymene)]
2
and RuCl
3
·
x
H
2
O complexes were often employed as catalysts, thus providing the sustainable step economic strategies for natural products and APIs synthesis and as potential alternative to conventional methods.
Screening Prostate Cancer Cell‐Derived Exosomal MicroRNA Expression with Photothermal‐Driven Digital PCR
Authors: Zhang Lexiang , Li Wenzhao , Parvin Rokshana , Wang XiaoChen , Fan Qihui , Ye Fangfu
Published: September 2022

Exosomes are cell‐derived extracellular vesicles which enclose genetic substances from their origin cells, offering a good source of biomarkers. Many efforts have been made to develop non‐invasive exosome‐based clinical diagnosis, which are urgently needed for prostate cancer, as traditional methods are criticized due to the inaccuracy and discomfort. In this study, a simple, universal process for genotyping of exosome‐derived microRNAs using nanoparticles to capture exosomes and the novel photothermal droplet digital polymerase chain reaction (ddPCR) assay to detect target molecules is presented. To detect the target sensitively and simply, the smart ddPCR thermocycling of the agarose microcarriers can be controllably realized via embedding photothermal MXene and magnetic nanoparticles composite, and then irradiating with a homemade automated near‐infrared control module. Duplex photothermal‐driven ddPCR cooperating with dual TaqMan probes enabled simultaneously and quantitatively detecting copy numbers of prostate oncogenes microRNA‐21‐5p, microRNA‐375‐3p, and metastasis microRNA‐574‐3p along with the control microRNA‐30a‐5p within the extracted exosomes. The results show that the expression levels of these biomarkers in prostate cancer cell lines PC‐3 and DU145 are 7–210 folds higher than those in healthy control cells HaCaT and HUVEC. Thus, it is believed that these versatile exosomal microRNA genotyping approaches are potentially valuable for diverse clinical applications.
Visualization of a Limonene Synthesis Metabolon Inside Living Bacteria by Hyperspectral SRS Microscopy
Authors: Zhang Jing , Shin Jonghyeon , Tague Nathan , Lin Haonan , Zhang Meng , Ge Xiaowei , Wong Wilson , Dunlop Mary J. , Cheng Ji‐Xin
Published: September 2022

Monitoring biosynthesis activity at single‐cell level is key to metabolic engineering but is still difficult to achieve in a label‐free manner. Using hyperspectral stimulated Raman scattering imaging in the 670–900 cm−1region, localized limonene synthesis are visualized inside engineeredEscherichia coli. The colocalization of limonene and GFP‐fused limonene synthase is confirmed by co‐registered stimulated Raman scattering and two‐photon fluorescence images. The finding suggests a limonene synthesis metabolon with a polar distribution inside the cells. This finding expands the knowledge ofde novolimonene biosynthesis in engineered bacteria and highlights the potential of SRS chemical imaging in metabolic engineering research.
Neuronal loss of the nucleus basalis of Meynert in primary progressive aphasia is associated with Alzheimer's disease neuropathological changes
Authors: Schaeverbeke Jolien , Tomé Sandra O. , Ronisz Alicja , Ospitalieri Simona , von Arnim Christine A. F. , Otto Markus , Vandenberghe Rik , Thal Dietmar Rudolf
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Imaging studies indicated basal forebrain reduction in primary progressive aphasia (PPA), which might be a candidate marker for cholinergic treatment. Nucleus basalis of Meynert (nbM) neuronal loss has been reported, but a systematic quantitative neuropathological assessment including the three clinical PPA variants is lacking.

Methods

Quantitative assessment of neuronal density and pathology was performed on nbM tissue of 47 cases: 15 PPA, constituting the different clinicopathological phenotypes, 14 Alzheimer's disease (AD), and 18 cognitively normals.

Results

Group‐wise, reduced nbM neuronal density was restricted to AD. At the individual level, semantic variant PPA with underlying AD neuropathological change (ADNC) had lower neuronal densities, while those with frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD) transactive response DNA binding protein 43 kDa (TDP‐43) type C pathology were unaffected. Higher Braak stages and increased numbers of nbM‐related pretangles were associated with nbM neuronal loss.

Discussion

nbM neuronal loss in PPA is related to ADNC. This study cautions against overinterpreting MRI‐based basal forebrain volumes in non‐AD PPA as neuronal loss.
DNA polymerase delta interacting protein 3 facilitates the activation and maintenance of DNA damage checkpoint in response to replication stress
Authors: Zhang Sufang , Lee Ernest Y. C. , Lee Marietta Y. W. T. , Zhang Dong
Published: September 2022

Background

Replication stress response is crucial for the maintenance of a stable genome. POLDIP3 (DNA polymerase delta interacting protein 3) was initially identified as one of the DNA polymerase δ (Pol δ) interacting proteins almost 20 years ago. Using a variety of in vitro biochemical assays, we previously established that POLDIP3 is a key regulator of the enzymatic activity of Pol δ. However, the in vivo function of POLDIP3 in DNA replication and DNA damage response has been elusive.

Methods

We first generated POLDIP3 knockout (KO) cells using the CRISPR/Cas9 technology. We then investigated its biological functions in vivo using a variety of biochemical and cell biology assays.

Results

We showed that although the POLDIP3‐KO cells manifest no pronounced defect in global DNA synthesis under nonstress conditions, they are sensitive to a variety of replication fork blockers. Intriguingly, we found that POLDIP3 plays a crucial role in the activation and maintenance of the DNA damage checkpoint in response to exogenous as well as endogenous replication stress.

Conclusion

Our results indicate that when the DNA replication fork is blocked, POLDIP3 can be recruited to the stalled replication fork and functions to bridge the early DNA damage checkpoint response and the later replication fork repair/restart.
Metal‐Organic Framework@Metal Oxide Heterostructures Induced by Electron‐Beam Radiation
Authors: Chen Junchang , Zhang Mingxing , Zhang Shitong , Cao Kecheng , Mao Xuanzhi , Zhang Maojiang , He Linwei , Dong Xiao , Shu Jie , Dong Hongchun , Zhai Fuwan , Shen Rongfang , Yuan Mengjia , Zhao Xiaofang , Wu Guozhong , Chai Zhifang , Wang Shuao
Published: September 2022

Metal organic frameworks (MOFs) are a distinct family of crystalline porous materials finding extensive applications. Their synthesis often requires elevated temperature and relatively long reaction time. We report here the first case of MOF synthesis activated by high‐energy (1.5 MeV) electron beam radiation from a commercially available electron‐accelerator. Using ZIF‐8 as a representative for demonstration, this type of synthesis can be accomplished under ambient conditions within minutes, leading to energy consumption about two orders of magnitude lower than that of the solvothermal condition. Interestingly, by controlling the absorbed dose in the synthesis, the electron beam not only activates the formation reaction of ZIF‐8, but also partially etches the material during the synthesis affording a hierarchical pore architecture and highly crystalline ZnO nanoparticles on the surface of ZIF‐8. This gives rise to a new strategy to obtain MOF@metal oxide heterostructures, finding utilities in photocatalytic degradation of organic dyes.
A Highly Twisted Carbazole‐Fused DABNA Derivative as an Orange‐Red TADF Emitter for OLEDs with Nearly 40 % EQE
Authors: Cheng Ying‐Chun , Fan Xiao‐Chun , Huang Feng , Xiong Xin , Yu Jia , Wang Kai , Lee Chun‐Sing , Zhang Xiao‐Hong
Published: September 2022

Multiple resonance (MR) type thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) material is currently a research hotspot in organic light‐emitting diodes (OLEDs) due to their high color purity and high exciton utilization. However, there are only a handful of MR‐TADF emitters with emissions beyond the blue‐to‐green region. The very limited emission colors for MR‐TADF emitters are mainly caused by the fact that so far molecular modifications of MR‐TADF do not offer much change in the emission colors. Here, we report a new approach to modifying a prototypical MR core of DABNA by fusing carbazoles to the MR framework. The carbazole‐fused molecule (TCZ‐F‐DABNA) basically maintains the MR‐dominated features of DABNA while red‐shifting the emission. Its OLED achieves an external quantum efficiency of 39.2 % with a peak at 588 nm, which is a record‐high efficiency for OLEDs with peaks beyond 560 nm. This work provides a new approach for significantly tunning emission colors of MR‐TADF emitters.
Amorphous Calcium Carbonate Cluster Nanospheres in Water‐Deficient Organic Solvents
Authors: Ju Yi‐Ming , Zhao Yang , Guan Qing‐Fang , Yang Si‐Yao , Wang Wei , Yan Bei‐Bei , Meng Yu‐Feng , Li Si‐Cheng , Tang Pei‐Ping , Mao Li‐Bo , Yu Shu‐Hong
Published: September 2022

As the key intermediate phase of crystalline calcium carbonate biominerals, amorphous calcium carbonate (ACC) remains mysterious in its structures because of its long‐range disorder and instability. We herein report the synthesis of ACC nanospheres in a water‐deficient organic solvent system. The obtained ACC nanospheres are very stable under dry conditions. Cryo‐TEM reveals that each nanospheres consists of smaller nanosized clusters. We further demonstrate that these clusters can precipitate on other substrates to form an ultrathin ACC coating, which should be an ACC cluster monolayer. The results demonstrate that the presence of small ACC clusters as the subunits of larger aggregates is inherent to ACC synthesized in water‐alcohol system but not induced by polymer additives.
The association of nausea and vomiting of pregnancy, its treatments, and select birth defects: Findings from the National Birth Defect Prevention Study
Authors: Schrager Nina L. , Parker Samantha E. , Werler Martha M. ,   for the National Birth Defects Prevention Study
Published: September 2022

Background

Nausea and vomiting of pregnancy (NVP) occurs in approximately 70% of pregnant people. Treatments include pharmacologic and herbal/natural products. Research on the associations between NVP and its treatments and birth defects is limited.

Methods

We used data from the case–control National Birth Defects Prevention Study (1997–2011) to examine whether first‐trimester NVP or its specific treatments were associated with 37 major birth defects. Odds ratios (aOR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were adjusted for sociodemographic and reproductive factors.

Results

Mothers of 66.6% of 28,628 cases and 69.9% of 11,083 controls reported first‐trimester NVP. Compared to no NVP, mothers with NVP had ≥10% reduction in risk of cardiac and noncardiac defects overall, and of 18 specific defects. Over‐the‐counter antiemetic use, compared to untreated NVP, was associated with ≥10% increase in risk for nine defect groups (heterotaxy, hypoplastic left heart syndrome [HLHS], aortic stenosis, cataracts, anophthalmos/microphthalmos, biliary atresia, transverse limb deficiency, omphalocele, and gastroschisis), whereas use of prescription antiemetics increased risk ≥10% for seven defect groups (tetralogy of Fallot, HLHS, spina bifida, anopthlamos/microphthalmos, cleft palate, craniosynostosis, and diaphragmatic hernia). We observed increased risks for promethazine and tetralogy of Fallot (aOR: 1.49, 95% CI: 1.05–2.10), promethazine and craniosynostosis (1.44, 1.08–1.92), ondansetron and cleft palate (1.66, 1.18–2.31), pyridoxine and heterotaxy (3.91, 1.49–10.27), and pyridoxine and cataracts (2.57, 1.12–5.88).

Conclusions

NVP does not increase risks of birth defects. Our findings that some treatments for NVP increase risk of specific birth defects should be investigated further before clinical recommendations are made.
Are Misperceptions of Methods in Infectious Disease Ecology Reflected in Biases of Where Studies are Published?
Authors: Bartlett Lewis J. , Washburn Tyler J.
Published: September 2022

In response to the SARS‐CoV‐2 (Covid‐19) pandemic, multiple calls were made for the better use of various tools developed in many disparate academic disciplines. Included in these calls were claims that techniques used widely across ecological sciences could be better capitalized on, despite a rich and longstanding history of including ecology and evolutionary biology in infectious disease research, epidemiology, and public health. Mismatches between the perception of the role of ecology and evolution in governmental infectious disease response and the reality of its inclusion led to those outside the field of infectious disease ecology publishing potentially misleading science, contributing to a wider problem of misinformation. We investigated the anecdotally discussed role of publishing patterns in driving this misperception. We matched abstracts from a leading ecological conference against associated papers published following that conference, and examined differences in publishing destinations for abstracts from infectious disease sessions to abstracts from elsewhere in the conference. We found that relative to other ecological disciplines, infectious disease ecology studies are 1.5 times less likely to be published in ecology journals than is typical across the wider ecology discipline, but are over three times more likely to be published in broader‐scope biological sciences journals. The role of this bias in publication destinations of disease ecology is likely worth consideration, in part as it relates to wider understanding of the appropriateness of involving ecological methods to sensitive topics like pandemic response policy. We suggest that this is not inherently a problem, but does warrant better awareness from ecologists working both within and without infectious disease biology.
Scalable synthesis of the C14–C23 fragment of Eribulin and Halichondrin B
Authors: Kim U Bin , Samala Srinivas , Kim Namhyeon , Bogonda Ganganna , Lago‐Santomé Hugo , Jeong Youngdo , Kim Jin , Jung Jaehun , Jeon Sung‐Hyun , Lee Seung Jong , Shin Hyunik
Published: September 2022

A novel, scalable approach to the C14–C23 fragment of eribulin mesylate is disclosed. Key 2,3‐Wittig rearrangement is strategically effected via [Rh] mediated decomposition of 1,2,3‐triazole intermediate to derive the 2,5‐trans‐tetrahydrofuran motif, enabling multi‐kilogram access to the desired C14–C23 fragment.
An online course on applied biochemistry and molecular biology through case‐based learning
Authors: Plasencia Javier
Published: September 2022

An undergraduate online course on Applied Biochemistry and Molecular Biology was developed through different formats of case study that included lecture, class discussion, small‐groups discussion, and individual work. Cases covering health, biotechnology, agriculture, and other issues were developed or adapted from the literature to reach the desired learning goals. Multiple web resources were employed for information integration that were presented and discussed in the synchronous sessions and assignments. Formative and summative assessment was achieved through multiple‐choice questionnaires, exams, and homework assignments.
Two 3D Rubidium Halide Organic–Inorganic Hybrid Perovskite Ferroelectrics Templated by Quasi‐Spherical Organic Amine 1,4‐Diazabicyclo[3.2.2]nonane
Authors: Wei Jing , Han Keke , You Xiuli , Zhang Mengxia , Wei Zhenhong , Zhang Haina , Cai Hu
Published: September 2022

The emergence of (CH3NH3)PbI3 has brought the development of three‐dimensional (3D) organic‐inorganic hybrid perovskite (OIHP) structures with ABX3 type to a higher level; however, most 3D frameworks are constructed by corner‐sharing of BX6 octahedra. Herein, we substituted the spherical molecule 1,4‐diazabicyclo[2.2.2]octane (2.2.2‐dabco) with 1,4‐diazabicyclo[3.2.2]nonane (1,4‐3.2.2‐dabcn) as a template to react with RbX (X=Br, I) in the corresponding HX acids under the consideration of reducing the molecular symmetry. Two 3D OIHP compounds [1,4‐3.2.2‐H2dabcn]RbI3⋅H2O (1) and [1,4‐3.2.2‐H2dabcn]RbBr3 (2) crystallized in non‐centrosymmetric point group mm2 before the phase transition point were isolated. Among them, the 3D inorganic framework of 1 is constructed by sharing the corner of [RbI6] octahedra, while that of 2 is constructed by sharing the corner and face of [RbBr6] octahedra to acquire large cavities to accommodate the organic amine cation [1,4‐3.2.2‐H2dabcn]2+; this 3D framework type is unprecedented in the OIHPs. As expected, compounds 1 and 2 exhibit reversible phase transition, dielectric and second harmonic generation (SHG) and ferroelectric properties, in which the phase transition temperature of 2 at 374 K is much higher than compound 1 at 280 K.
Nanoarchitectonics of RGO‐Wrapped CNF/GO Aerogels with Controlled Pore Structures by PVA‐Assisted Freeze‐Casting Approach for Efficient Sound and Microwave Absorption**
Authors: Zhang Xiaoxiao , Zheng Qitan , Chen Wenzheng , Chen Zhixin , Chen Yujie , Fan Qunfu , Li Hua , Liu Hezhou , Zhu Shenmin
Published: September 2022

Acoustic absorption materials play an important role in eliminating the negative effects of noise. Herein, a polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)‐assisted freeze‐casting was developed for controllably fabricating reduced graphene oxide wrapped carbon nanofiber (RGO@CNF)/graphene oxide composite aerogel. During the freeze‐casting, PVA was used as an icing inhibitor to control the size of ice crystals. While the concentration of PVA increased from 0 to 15 mg ⋅ ml−1, the average pore size of the aerogel was reduced from 154 to 45 μm. Due to the modulation of the pore size and composition, the propagation path and friction loss for sound were optimized, especially at low frequency. For instance, the normalized sound absorption coefficient of RGO@CNF/GO‐10 achieves 0.79 (250–6300 Hz). The sample also exhibits a desirable microwave absorbing property whose maximum reflection loss is −47.3 dB (9.44 GHz, d=3.0 mm). Prospectively, this synthetic strategy can be extended to develop other forms of elastic aerogel with a controlled pore size.
A SelectMDx/magnetic resonance imaging‐based nomogram to diagnose prostate cancer
Authors: Wagaskar Vinayak G. , Levy Micah , Ratnani Parita , Sullimada Sharmila , Gerenia Mae , Schlussel Kacie , Choudhury Samia , Gabriele Marla , Haas Ian , Haines Kenneth , Tewari Ash
Published: September 2022

Background

70%–80% of prostate cancer (PCa) biopsies performed in the US annually may be unnecessary. Specific antigen testing (PSA) and tans rectal ultrasound (TRUS) are imprecise predictive methods for risk of PCa. Novel strategies are critical to guide biopsy decision‐making.

Aim

We assessed the utility and accuracy of combining Select MDx and multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI) scores for predicting risk of PCa.

Methods and Results

Our study was conducted at Mount Sinai hospital at Urology department in New York City from January 2020 to April 2021. Total 129 men performed select MDx test. Indications for prostate biopsy were high‐risk Select MDx score, suspicious DRE, PI‐RADS scores 3/4/5 on mpMRI, or any combination of these. Fifty‐one percentage of 129 patients underwent systemic or combined systemic and MRI/US (ultrasound) fusion biopsy; All men underwent 3 T MRI of Prostate w/wo contrast using standard protocols prior to biopsy. A single surgeon performed prostate biopsies.

Gleason score ≥3 + 3 on biopsy is defined as outcome. Descriptive statistics were calculated as cross tables. Binary logistic regression model is used to determine the outcome. The nomogram was based on the coefficients of the logit function. ROCs were plotted and decision curve analysis was performed.

Using both high‐risk Select MDx and PI‐RADS scores of 4/5, 87% of biopsies could have been avoided, while detecting 64% of PCa and missing 36%. If biopsies were performed on men with positive Select MDx or PI‐RADS 4/5 results, 16% of biopsies could have been avoided while detecting all PCa. Combining these scores improved specificity and accuracy for the detection of PCa over either used alone. Study limitations include limited sample size, sole institution study, and risk or overfitting for the proposed model which may limit generalizability.

Conclusion

Combining SelectMDx and mpMRI PI‐PADS scores of 4/5 may be useful for PCa biopsy decision‐making.
Network statistics‐based routing and path orient data encryption scheme for efficient healthcare monitoring with IoT in WSN
Authors: Vijayakumar M.
Published: September 2022

Wireless communication has been adapted for a variety of difficulties as a result of recent developments in sensor networks. The sensors are meant to communicate with network nodes located at a distance and to adapt to various conditions. In addition, Internet of Things (IoT) devices are becoming a part of WSN and are being tailored to various healthcare systems. Nonetheless, the presence of massive nodes and rogue nodes makes transmitting data packets difficult. The procedure, however, confronts a number of obstacles, including data security, continuous monitoring, and routing issues. A variety of ideas are explored to help with the situation, but they all have flaws. A network statistics‐based routing and path orient data encryption system has been developed to address this problem (NSR‐PDE). The strategy focuses on keeping track on patients and providing strong, decisive support systems. The model is created to access data stored on cloud servers and allows for the monitoring of multiple patients in different locations. The model begins by monitoring the whole bodily states of patients in real time using dedicated equipment. Such monitored characteristics are provided over a variety of channels, with route selection based on the patient's class and the type of information being transmitted. The approach calculates the network constraint secure route measure (NCSRM), which is calculated using route information, node behavior, and physical attributes. Similarly, data transmission is protected by path orient data encryption (PDE), which ensures data security according on the route's type and conditions.
Engineering Thermoelectric Performance of α‐GeTe by Ferroelectric Distortion
Authors: Fan Yuting , Xie Chenghao , Li Jun , Meng Xiangyu , Sun Jinchang , Wu Jinsong , Tang Xinfeng , Tan Gangjian
Published: September 2022

The rhombohedral α‐GeTe can be approximated as a slightly distorted rock‐salt structure along its [1 1 1] direction and possesses superb thermoelectric performance. However, the role of such a ferroelectric‐like structural distortion on its transport properties remains unclear. Herein, we performed a systematic study on the crystal structure and electronic band structure evolutions of Ge1‐xSnxTe alloys where the degree of ferroelectric distortion is continuously tuned. It is revealed that the band gap is maximized while multiple valence bands are converged at x = 0.6, where the ferroelectric distortion is the least but still works. Once undistorted, the band gap is considerably reduced, and the valence bands are largely separated again. Moreover, near the ferro‐to‐paraelectric phase transition Curie temperature, the lattice thermal conductivity reaches its minima because of significant lattice softening enabled by ferroelectric instability. We predict a peak ZT value of 2.6 at 673 K in α‐GeTe by use of proper dopants which are powerful in suppressing the excess hole concentrations but meanwhile exert little influence on the ferroelectric distortion.
Topological Structure‐Modulated Collagen Carbon as Two‐in‐One Energy Storage Configuration toward Ultrahigh Power and Energy Density
Authors: Yuan Li , Cai Wenlong , Wei Yunhong , Pu Yiran , Liu Can , Zhang Yun , Wu Hao
Published: September 2022

Efficient energy storage devices with suitable electrode materials, that integrate high power and high energy, are the crucial requisites of the renewable power source, which have unwrapped new possibilities in the sustainable development of energy and the environment. Herein, a facile collagen microstructure modulation strategy is proposed to construct a nitrogen/oxygen dual‐doped hierarchically porous carbon fiber with ultrahigh specific surface area (2788 m2 g−1) and large pore volume (4.56 cm3 g−1) via local microfibrous breakage/disassembly of natural structured proteins. Combining operando spectroscopy and density functional theory unveil that the dual‐heteroatom doping could effectively regulate the electronic structure of carbon atom framework with enhanced electric conductivity and electronegativity as well as decreased diffusion resistance in favor of rapid pseudocapacitive‐dominated Li+‐storage (353 mAh g−1 at 10 A g−1). Theoretical calculations reveal that the tailored micro−/mesoporous structures favor the rapid charge transfer and ion storage, synergistically realizing high capacity and superior rate performance for NPCF‐H cathode (75.0 mAh g−1 at 30 A g−1). The assembled device with NPCF‐H as both anode and cathode achieves extremely high energy density (200 Wh kg−1) with maximum power density (42 600 W kg−1) and ultralong lifespan (80% capacity retention over 10 000 cycles).
Familial risk of dilated and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy: a national family study in Sweden
Authors: Ricci Fabrizio , Banihashemi Behzad , Pirouzifard Mirnabi , Sundquist Jan , Sundquist Kristina , Sutton Richard , Fedorowski Artur , Zöller Bengt
Published: September 2022

Aims

This study aims to determine the familial incidence of dilated (DCM) and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) in first‐degree, second‐degree, and third‐degree relatives of affected individuals.

Methods and results

In this population‐based multigenerational cohort study, full‐siblings, half‐siblings, and cousin pairs born to Swedish parents between 1932 and 2015 were included, and register‐based DCM and HCM diagnoses among relatives were ascertained. Adjusted odds ratios (ORs) for DCM and HCM were calculated for relatives of individuals with DCM and HCM compared with relatives of individuals without DCM and HCM for reference. Total study population included 6 334 979 subjects and consisted of 5 577 449 full‐siblings, 1 321 414 half‐siblings, and 3 952 137 cousins. Overall, 10 272 (0.16%) unique individuals were diagnosed with DCM and 3769 (0.06%) with HCM. Of these, 7716 (75.12%) and 2375 (63.01%) were males, respectively. Familial risk ORs for DCM were 5.35 [95% confidence intervals (CI): 4.85–5.90] for full‐siblings, 2.68 (95% CI:1.86–3.87) for half‐siblings, and 1.72 (95% CI:1.12–2.64) for cousins of affected individuals. The ORs for HCM were 42.44 (95% CI:37.66–47.82) for full‐siblings, 32.70 (95% CI:21.32–50.15) for half‐siblings, and 36.96 (95% CI:29.50–46.31) for cousins of affected individuals. In sex‐stratified analysis, relatives of affected females were found more likely to be affected than were relatives of affected males, with stronger aggregation observed for HCM.

Conclusions

Familial risk of HCM and DCM is high and associated with genetic resemblance, with strongest aggregations observed in relatives of affected females with HCM, whereas this association was distinctly attenuated for DCM. The finding of a Carter effect, more pronounced in HCM, suggests a multifactorial threshold model of inheritance.
State transformations through public, multilevel, and territorial governance in European Union: Towards a metagovernance paradigm
Authors: Dias Ricardo C. , Seixas Paulo C. , Lobner Nadine
Published: September 2022

This article discusses “public,” “multi‐level,” and “territorial” governance, highlighting the reformulation of the state based on a double dynamic, vertical and horizontal, of displacement of state power in the European Union. We propose that public governance opened up to the ambivalence between “multi‐level” and “territorial” governance. This ambivalence is evident in the practical challenges within European governance in the making. According to these challenges, Europeanization raises two priorities: subnational structures that enable the state to get closer to the territory and the people, and beyond borders networks between states, institutions, and people(s). This possibility of effectively involving new actors (at all levels) in the political process of the construction of European regions requires a multi‐spatial metagovernance approach.
Investigation of thermal performance in dual‐fuel units
Authors: Xue Xiaochun , Yu Yonggang
Published: September 2022

Numerical studies were carried out to investigate the thermal performance of the muzzle flow with strong shock discontinuities and gas–gas heat transfer mechanism in the base bleed unit (BBU) of an aerodynamic vehicle under the combined effects of muzzle flow and depressurization process. The process was modeled using the Navier–Stokes equations with chemical kinetics and interior ballistic equations. The results show that the muzzle phenomena with large temperature gradients and different wave structures appear after the supersonic vehicle enters into the free‐flight stage. The BBU also experiences a strong depressurization process with the release of high‐temperature propellant gas at 2200 K. However, the igniter combustion gas at a higher temperature of 3050 K in the BBU develops downstream and upstream repeatedly under the combined effects of the base wave and depressurization process, which makes the energy conversion process in the unit more complicated. With the projectile leaving the control of the muzzle flow, the BBU is full of the igniter combustion gas and the energy in the unit is uniformly distributed gradually. The high‐temperature area, at approximately 2750 K, propagates downstream along the axial and radial directions simultaneously until it finally dominates the entire unit. The maximum temperature of the combustion gas acting on the propellant surface is always 2740 K and the maximum heat flux remains approximately 1250 W/cm2 at later periods.
Combinations of Tibetan tea and medicine food homology herbs: A new strategy for obesity prevention
Authors: Yuan Ye , Zhang Bin , He Jing‐liu , Wei Ting , Liu De‐jun , Yang Wen‐jun , Guo Cheng‐Yi , Nie Xu‐qiang
Published: September 2022

Obesity has become a significant global public health problem. Functional drinks have been an essential direction for obesity prevention research. The present study investigated the preventive effect and safety of winter melon and lotus leaf Tibetan tea (WLTT, a compound tea drink based on Ya'an Tibetan Tea and medicine food homology herbs) on obesity. The rats' hypercaloric high‐fat diet (HFD) obesity model was established to evaluate obesity prevention and explored the mechanism through intestinal flora regulation. The results showed that in obese rats with the intervention of WLTT (400, 800, and 1600 mg/kg BW), the body weight, fat accumulation, adipocyte cell size, serum lipid levels, and antioxidant enzyme activity (SOD, GSH‐Px, and MDA) were progressively improved. 16S rRNA high‐throughput sequencing showed that WLTT could improve intestinal flora disorders due to HFD, which significantly reversed the relative abundance of Firmicutes and the F/B ratio associated with an HFD, and significantly upregulated the relative abundance of Verrucomicrobia. At the genus level, the downregulation of the relative abundance of Akkermansia and unclassified_Lachnospiraceae groups, and the upregulation of the relative abundance of Romboutsia, Ruminococcus, Corynebacteriume, and Saccharibacteria_genera_incertae_sedis groups brought about by the HFD were significantly reversed. The results of the above experiments were compared favorably with those of a parallel experiment with Bi ‐Sheng ‐Yuan slimming tea (BSY, a functional drink based on green tea and medicine food homology herbs). Overall, the findings have provided that WLTT can prevent obesity owing to an HFD by regulating intestinal flora and has a good safety profile, and combinations of Tibetan tea and medicine food homology herbs could be a new option for obesity prevention.
Pricing risky corporate bonds: An empirical study
Authors: Baaquie Belal Ehsan , Karim Muhammad Mahmudul
Published: September 2022

This paper empirically studies a model for pricing risky corporate bonds proposed by Baaquie—based on the seminal Merton. The proposed model provides an exact solution for the price of a risky corporate bond with a finite maturity and explains the market price of corporate fixed coupon bonds as being the result of the market risk that is carried by the bond. Baaquie's model is empirically tested using 42 fixed coupon bonds issued by 23 US corporations, between 2011 and 2017. It is found that the proposed model estimates most bond prices quite accurately. Market time (similar to the concept of psychological time), which is distinct from calendar time, is quantified in the paper and is an exogenous behavioral parameter that plays a pivotal role in improving the accuracy of the pricing model for long‐maturity risky bonds.
Disentangling the landscape during armed conflicts and postpeace agreements: Clues from Colombia's Andes-Amazon region
Authors: Murillo-Sandoval Paulo J.
Published: September 2022

The link between remote sensing and armed conflict processes has been evaluated through discrete landscape representations, deforestation, and static land cover maps. Yet, the landscape is dynamic—not discrete, and recognizing its evolution through armed conflict processes provides better-informed management and a more profound understanding of landscape dynamics. We must create continuous variables that provide compelling landscape representations that account for armed conflict processes as a driver of land cover and land-use change. Here, we present the advancements in monitoring landscape changes in Colombia from subannual forest change and annual land cover maps to elucidate illicit land use and habitat connectivity status. This evolution delivers critical elements to understanding the consequences of armed conflict processes on the environment. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2023;19:355–359. © 2022 SETAC.
Reflections on the 50‐year history of the Federation of Asian and Oceanian Biochemists and Molecular Biologists (FAOBMB)
Authors: Nagley Phillip , Svasti Jisnuson , Kikuchi Akira
Published: September 2022

The Federation of Asian and Oceanian Biochemists and Molecular Biologists, Inc. (FAOBMB) celebrates its Golden Jubilee in 2022. Established in August 1972 as a regional grouping of three national societies of biochemists in Australia, India and Japan, it took the name Federation of Asian and Oceanian Biochemists (FAOB). The Federation rapidly grew to encompass another 12 national societies (or groups) of biochemists within 6 years, eventually increasing the number of Constituent Members to 21 by 2014. FAOB soon established regular scientific meetings, including triennial Congresses and annual Symposia; from 1980 FAOB Travel Fellowships enabled regional young scientists to participate in them. In 1992, FAOB was constituted as an Incorporated Association in Victoria, Australia, changing its name 1 year later (yielding the acronym FAOBMB). A printed Newsletter/Bulletin was distributed through each Constituent Society or Group from 1972 to 1999. With the advent of the internet and email in the late 1990s, communication rapidly improved, such that the first webpage of FAOBMB was set up in 1995. From the inception of the Federation, an international journal sponsored by FAOB was foreshadowed but only commenced in 1997, sadly lasting only 6 years. Education in biochemistry and molecular biology became prominent in FAOBMB from the 1990s. In the 21st century, awards to high‐achieving scientists and educationists were introduced, the first being the Young Scientist Awards in 2006. The Fellowships program was extended to young educationists in 2018. FAOB(MB) has been supported by the International Union of Biochemistry (and Molecular Biology) almost its entire history, mostly for support of Congresses, Conferences and Symposia, but also for Young Scientist Programs. The most recent challenge to FAOBMB came with the COVID‐19 pandemic. Executive Committee and the Constituent Members rapidly adapted to virtual communications for their administrative meetings and Education Symposia, and a memorable Congress was held totally on‐line in 2021.
Novel nano‐hydroxyapatite coating of additively manufactured three‐dimensional porous implants improves bone ingrowth and initial fixation
Authors: Watanabe Ryota , Takahashi Hiroyuki , Matsugaki Aira , Uemukai Toru , Kogai Yasumichi , Imagama Takashi , Yukata Kiminori , Nakano Takayoshi , Sakai Takashi
Published: September 2022

Electron beam melting (EBM) has been used to fabricate three‐dimensional (3D) porous Ti‐6Al‐4V surfaces for acetabular cups in total hip arthroplasty. However, there are radiographic concerns regarding poor implant fixation and bone ingrowth around electron beam melted (EBMed) 3D porous cups. We hypothesize that nano‐hydroxyapatite (nHA) coating can promote bone ingrowth and thus decrease the occurrence of radiolucent lines around EBMed 3D porous cups. This study aimed to investigate the effect of a novel nHA coating on the biological performance of EBMed 3D porous implants in a beagle transcortical model. Low‐porosity (control) and high‐porosity 3D porous Ti‐6Al‐4V implants were manufactured using EBM. Half of the high‐porosity implants were coated with nHA without clogging the 3D pores. Implants were inserted into the femoral diaphysis of the beagles. The beagles were euthanized at 4, 8, and 12 weeks postoperatively, and push‐out testing was performed. Bone ingrowth was evaluated by histological analysis. Although the increase in porosity alone had no effect on biological behavior, the addition of nHA to high‐porosity 3D implants significantly improved early bone fixation and bone ingrowth into the deep region of porous structures compared to low‐porosity implants. This is the first report of a novel nHA coating that improved bone ingrowth into the deeper regions of 3D porous implants, which can prevent the occurrence of radiolucent lines around EBMed 3D porous cups.