bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prognostic importance of the preoperative New‐Naples prognostic score for patients with gastric cancer
Authors: Wang Hao , Fang Tianyi , Yin Xin , Lou Shenghan , Han Bangling , Gao Jialiang , Wang Yufei , Wang Xibo , Zhang Daoxu , Wang Yimin , Zhang Yao , Xue Yingwei
Published: July 2022

Background

The wide applicability of the Naples prognostic score (NPS) is still worthy of further study in gastric cancer (GC). This study aimed to construct a New‐NPS based on the differences in immunity and nutrition in patients with upper and lower gastrointestinal tumors to help obtain an individualized prediction of prognosis.

Methods

This study retrospectively analyzed patients who underwent radical gastrectomy from April 2014 to September 2016. The cutoff values of the preoperative neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (NLR), lymphocyte‐to‐monocyte ratio (LMR), serum albumin (Alb), and total cholesterol (TC) were calculated by ROC curve analysis. ROC and t‐ROC were used to evaluate the accuracy of the prognostic markers. The Kaplan–Meier method and log‐rank test were used to analyze the overall survival probability. Univariate and multivariate analyses based on Cox risk regression were used to show the independent predictors. The nomogram was made by R studio. The predictive accuracy of nomogram was assessed using a calibration plot, concordance index (C‐index), and decision curve.

Results

A total of 737 patients were included in training cohort, 411 patients were included in validation cohort. ROC showed that the New‐NPS was more suitable for predicting the prognosis of GC patients. NPS = 2 indicated a poor prognosis. Multivariate analysis showed that CEA (P = 0.026), Borrmann type (P = 0.001), pTNM (P < 0.001), New‐NPS (P < 0.001), and nerve infiltration (P = 0.035) were independent risk factors for prognosis.

Conclusion

The New‐NPS based on the cutoff values of NLR, LMR, Alb, and TC is not only suitable for predicting prognosis but can also be combined with clinicopathological characteristics to construct a nomogram model for GC patients.
Progress towards the Total Syntheses of Amaryllidaceae Alkaloids γ‐Lycorane
Authors: Xiao Jie , Zhou Guang‐Hua , Zhou An‐Xi , Ji Cong‐Bin
Published: July 2022

γ‐Lycorane, a degradation product of the Aromaticaceae alkaloid lycorine, is one of the most attractive molecules in the Aromaticaceae family. It remains a popular target for synthesis due to its pentacyclic structure, which presents a vehicle for demonstrating the utility of new synthetic strategies. Various synthetic methods have been developed by synthetic chemists since the first synthesis of γ‐lycorane by Nasuo in 1966. Thus, this review presents an overview of the literature on the ways utilized within the synthesis of γ‐lycorane in racemic and enantiopure forms via electrophilic arylation, Pd‐catalyzed C−C coupling, Bischler–Napieralski cyclization, Pictet–Spengler cyclization, photocyclization, radical cyclization, chiral pool synthesis, chiral auxiliary‐mediated synthesis, and catalytic asymmetric synthesis, ranging from 1966 to 2022.
NK cell dysfunction is linked with disease severity in SARS‐CoV‐2 patients
Authors: Dizaji Asl Khadijeh , Mazloumi Zeinab , Majidi Ghazal , Kalarestaghi Hossein , Sabetkam Shahnaz , Rafat Ali
Published: July 2022

SARS‐CoV‐2 first raised from Wuhan City, Hubei Province in November 2019. The respiratory disorder, cough, weakness, fever are the main clinical symptoms of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) patients. Natural Killer (NK) cells as a first defense barrier of innate immune system have an essential role in early defense against pulmonary virus. They kill the infected cells by inducing apoptosis or the degranulation of perforin and granzymes. Collectively, NK cells function are coordinated by the transmitted signals from activating and inhibitory receptors. It is clear that the cytotoxic function of NK cells is disrupted in COVID‐19 patients due to the dysregulation of activating and inhibitory receptors. Therefore, better understanding of the activating and inhibitory receptors mechanism could facilitate the treatment strategy in clinic. To improve the efficacy of immunotherapy in COVID‐19 patients, the functional detail of NK cell and manipulation of their key checkpoints are gathered in current review.
Rectal foreign body in adult male: Unusual case report and literature review
Authors: Banimostafavi Elham Sadat , Sharifpour Ali , Zakariaei Zakaria , Fakhar Mahdi , Soleymani Mostafa
Published: July 2022

The majority of rectal foreign bodies inserted by adults are for self‐gratification. As a result, they will probably be smooth, rounded, tubular, or egg‐shaped to make insertion and extraction easier. Herein, we describe a 50‐year‐old man who inserts a water bottle into a region 10 mm from the anorectal junction.
Dysgerminoma in a 15 years old phenotypically female Swyer syndrome with 46, XY pure gonadal dysgenesis: A case report
Authors: Ashraf Ganjooei Tahereh , Pirastehfar Zanbagh , Mosallanejad Asieh , Raoufi Masoomeh , Afshar Moghaddam Noushin , Hashemieh Mozhgan
Published: July 2022

Swyer syndrome is a 46, XY karyotype, with pure gonadal dysgenesis and primary amenorrhea. These females have primordial Mullerian structures and seek medical attention as they experience primary amenorrhea. Here, we report a 15‐year‐old girl, diagnosed as Swyer syndrome associated with left ovarian dysgerminoma.
Highly Selective Rhodium Catalyzed 1,4‐Hydrogenation of Conjugated Dienals
Authors: Saudan Christophe M. , Berrocosa Aurélien , Quintaine Julie , Spoehrle Stéphanie , Maggi Laurent , Mosimann Hervé , Saudan Lionel
Published: July 2022

The combination of a large bite‐angle diphosphine with a neutral rhodium complex in presence of a weak base has enabled the regio‐ and chemoselective hydrogenation of the α,β‐carbon‐carbon double bond of conjugated dienals in high selective fashion. This methodology offers a mild and neutral alternative to the commonly employed Claisen rearrangement in the synthesis of γ,δ‐unsaturated aldehydes. A large variety of substituted α,β,γ,δ‐bis‐unsaturated aldehydes has been selectively hydrogenated with the catalyst described herein showing the potential of this new methodology.
Growth and pigment production of Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803 under shear stress
Authors: Mehdizadeh Allaf Malihe , Fadlallah Hadi , Jarrahi Mojtaba , Peerhossaini Hassan
Published: July 2022

Cyanobacteria, such as Synechocystis, have recently become attractive hosts for sustainable production of biofuels and bio‐fixation of CO2 due to their genetic tractability and relatively fast growth. Cultivation of cyanobacteria requires shear stress, which is generated by mixing and air bubbling. In the present work, the impact of shear stress caused by stirring and air bubbling on the growth and pigment production of Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803 is investigated. For this purpose, agitated and airlift bubble column photobioreactors were used. The results showed that the growth and yield production were improved by mixing the culture system. However, there is a limit to this improvement: In the case of air bubbling, increasing shear stress (by rising air bubbling flow rate) to more than 185 mPa did not show any significant growth enhancement, while increasing the shear stress from 40 to 185 mPa improved the yield production up to 85%. At the optimal stirring rate, the yield production in the stirred photobioreactors increased by about 60% as compared to that of unstirred culture. The measurements of chlorophylla and carotenoid showed a strong correlation between biomass production and total pigment content. The highest level of cellular pigment (pigment per cell) was detected at the early stages of culture growth when cells were preparing for the rapid exponential growth phase.
Co‐delivery of Cisplatin and Chlorin e6 by Poly(phosphotyrosine) for Synergistic Chemotherapy and Photodynamic Therapy
Authors: Zhou Haisen , Wang Yaoyi , Hou Yingqin , Zhang Zhengkui , Wang Qi , Tian Xiaodong , Lu Hua
Published: July 2022

Comprehensive Summary

Nanoscale drug delivery systems (NDDSs) have emerged as promising carriers for combinational therapy by co‐delivery of multiple drugs and modalities. However, most co‐delivery systems require the use of complicated materials and formulations. Herein, we report the single use of a polymeric material, namely mPEG‐block‐poly(phosphotyrosine) (mPEG‐b‐PpY), as a multi‐functional carrier for the facile fabrication of NDDS Pt/Ce6@mPEG‐b‐PpY (PtCeNP) for the co‐delivery of cisplatin and photosensitizer chlorin e6 (Ce6) via phosphato‐platinum coordination and π‐π stacking, respectively. PtCeNP improves the solubility, cellular uptake, and bioavailability of both parental drugs, and showed strong synergistic antitumor efficacy both in vitro and in vivo through combined chemo‐photodynamic therapy. Our results indicate that PpY is a biocompatible, multifunctional, and promising carrier material suitable for a variety of drugs and may simplify the design for co‐delivery systems.
A Pd2L4 Metallacage‐Cored	Supramolecular Amphiphile and Its Application in Dual‐Responsive Controllable Release†
Authors: Chai Yongping , Qin Peng , Li Xupeng , Wei Tai‐Bao , Lin Qi , Zhang You‐Ming , Yao Hong , Qu Wen‐Juan , Shi Bingbing
Published: July 2022

Comprehensive Summary

The construction of multi‐responsive supramolecular systems for drug delivery is a challenging task. In this work, a Pd2L4 metallacage 1·([BF4]−)4 with four pyrene units was first designed and synthesized through coordination‐driven self‐assembly. After the introduction of γ‐CD, a supramolecular amphiphile 1–γ‐CD was successfully constructed based on the host–guest molecular recognition between γ‐CD and the pyrene unit of 1·([BF4]−)4, which further self‐assembled into dual‐responsive supramolecular vesicles in aqueous solution. DOX·HCl was used as a model molecule to study the drug encapsulation and release behavior of the supramolecular vesicles. By adjusting the pH of the solution to acidic condition or adding a certain amount of α‐amylase, the vesicle structure was destroyed to achieve rapid and effective release of the drug molecules. This study provides an example for the rational design of efficient dual‐responsive supramolecular nanocarriers, which have potential application value in the field of controlled drug delivery.
Efficacy, safety, and tolerability of lebrikizumab in adolescent patients with uncontrolled asthma (ACOUSTICS)
Authors: Szefler Stanley J. , Roberts Graham , Rubin Adalberto S. , Zielen Stefan , Kuna Piotr , Alpan Oral , Anzures‐Cabrera Judith , Chen Qiang , Holweg Cécile T. J. , Kaminski Janusz , Putnam Wendy S. , Matthews John G. , Kamath Nikhil
Published: July 2022

Background

Lebrikizumab is a monoclonal antibody that modulates activity of interleukin‐13. The Phase 3 ACOUSTICS study assessed lebrikizumab efficacy and safety in adolescents with uncontrolled asthma despite standard‐of‐care treatment.

Methods

Adolescents (aged 12–17 years) with uncontrolled asthma, prebronchodilator forced expiratory volume in 1 s 40%–90% predicted, and stable background therapy were randomised 1:1:1 to receive lebrikizumab 125 or 37.5 mg or placebo subcutaneously once every 4 weeks. Primary efficacy endpoint was asthma exacerbation rate over 52 weeks.

Results

Between August 2013 and July 2016, 579 patients were screened and 346 were randomised; 224 (65%) completed the study with 52 weeks of treatment. Lebrikizumab 125 mg (n = 116) reduced the exacerbation rate at 52 weeks versus placebo (n = 117; adjusted rate ratio [RR] 0.49 [95% CI 0.28–0.83]; 51% rate reduction). Lebrikizumab 37.5 mg (n = 113) was less effective at reducing exacerbations (RR 0.60 [95% CI 0.35–1.03]; 40% rate reduction). In patients with blood eosinophil counts ≥300 cells/μl, both lebrikizumab doses reduced exacerbations (125 mg: RR 0.44 [95% CI 0.21–0.89]; 37.5 mg: 0.42 [95% CI 0.19–0.93]). Treatment‐emergent adverse events, serious adverse events, and adverse events leading to study discontinuation occurred in 155 (68%), 7 (3%), and 5 (2%) of 229 patients who received lebrikizumab (both 125 and 37.5 mg doses) and in 72 (62%), 4 (3%), and 1 (1%) of 117 who received placebo, respectively. No deaths occurred.

Conclusion

Lebrikizumab 125 mg reduced asthma exacerbation rates in adolescents with uncontrolled asthma. However, the study was prematurely terminated (sponsor's decision) potentially limiting interpretation of results.

Clinical trial registration

NCT01875003 (www.ClinicalTrials.gov).
The analysis of cross‐correlation between Istanbul Stock Exchange and major stock markets and indices: An empirical analysis using Random Matrix Theory
Authors: Taştan Birhan , Imamoglu Hatice
Published: July 2022

This study attempts to investigate the cross‐correlation between stocks listed under the XU100 index of Borsa Istanbul with several ratios and indices of the stock markets worldwide by using the Random Matrix Theory approach through a correlation matrix. In addition, Eigenvector Analysis, Network Analysis, Dimension Reduction will be carried out to investigate cross‐correlation between markets. It was found that XU100, which is an index that includes 100 stocks highest in volume, has a distinguishing behavior compared to other indices and rates in terms of eigenvalue and related eigenvector structures. Furthermore, mean‐value portfolio analysis showed that the empirical correlation matrix underestimates the portfolio risks than the correlation matrix obtained by filtering the noise. Coronavirus pandemic also affected Borsa Istanbul by breaking periodic behavior of volatility and correlation cycle.
Identification of the types of disease for tomato plants using a modified gray wolf optimization optimized MobileNetV2 convolutional neural network architecture driven computer vision framework
Authors: Mukherjee Gunjan , Chatterjee Arpitam , Tudu Bipan
Published: July 2022

Tomato is a widely consumed fruit across the world due to its high nutritional values. Leaf diseases in tomato are very common which incurs huge damages but early detection of leaf diseases can help in avoiding that. The existing practices for detecting different diseases by the human experts are costly, time consuming and subjective in nature. Computer vision plays important role toward early detection of tomato leaf detection. However, implementation of computationally less expensive model and improvement of detection performance is still open. This article reports a computer vision based system to classify seven different categories of diseases, namely, bacterial spot, early blight, late blight, leaf mold, septoria leaf spot, spider mites, and target spots using optimized MobileNetV2 architecture. A modified gray wolf optimization approach has been adopted for optimization of MobileNetV2 hyperparameters for improved performance. The model has been validated using standard internal and external validation methods and found to provide the classification accuracy in the tune of 98%. The results reflect the promising potential of the presented framework for early detection of tomato leaf diseases which can help to avoid substantial agricultural loss.
Topology based energy efficient routing using integration of fuzzy based markov chain cluster‐optimized novel ant bee colony approach in FANET
Authors: Abbas Ali Farithkhan , Erode Dhanapal Kanmani Ruby
Published: July 2022

Flying adhoc network (FANET) is a rapidly flourishing technology in recent years which has an excellent scope of growth in the to the improvised mobility and the frequency changing topology FANETs are considered as a challenging technology to design an optimal network model. This problem is fixed with the topology based routing technique. Hence a novel hybrid clustering algorithm where fuzzy based Markov chain cluster (FMC2) is integrated with the optimized novel ant bee colony (ONABC) optimization algorithm (IoFMC2‐ONABC). This algorithm demonstrates an improvised efficiency with the novel ant bee colony algorithm. The proposed model simulation is done in an NS‐2 simulator and results are compared against the existing conventional approaches like adhoc on‐demand distance vector, efficient intelligent packet broadcasting protocol, energy‐efficient routing in flying ad hoc networks, and energy‐efficient gray wolf. This method aims at achieving improvised connectivity, optimizing the power consumption thereby increasing the residual energy augmenting the performance efficiency of the network through selection of the proper cluster center during each transmission. Thus the energy consumption of the node was optimized to 7.6 J with the highest packet delivery ratio of about 85.15 ensuring minimal packet losses during huge data transmission.
Investigation of the influence of single‐particle oscillations on the transport properties of dense plasma
Authors: Kodanova Sandugash K. , Issanova Moldir K. , Omiraliyeva Gaukhar K. , Ramazanov Tlekkabul S.
Published: July 2022

Transport properties of the ionic component of dense plasmas are investigated on the basis of effective potentials taking into account the presence of an external alternating electrical (laser) field. The latter generates single‐particle oscillations of electrons and significantly changes the screening of the test charge in plasma. Therefore, transport coefficients become non‐monotonic function of the oscillation frequency. The results for the diffusion and viscosity coefficients are presented. These transport coefficients are computed using the generalized Coulomb logarithm within the Chapman‐Enskog model for the fluid description. It was revealed that the oscillation of the electrons in the alternating external field with the frequency (with ωp being plasma frequency) results in the significant reduction of the ionic diffusion and viscosity coefficients. In contrast, at , the ionic diffusion and viscosity coefficients are larger compared to the case without the external field impact.
Investigation of buprenorphine‐related deaths using urinary metabolite concentrations
Authors: Mariottini Claudia , Kriikku Pirkko , Ojanperä Ilkka
Published: July 2022

Quantitative analysis of postmortem urine, instead of blood, for buprenorphine and metabolites may provide additional evidence for the diagnosis of fatal buprenorphine poisoning. In this study, 247 autopsy urine samples, previously testing positive for buprenorphine or norbuprenorphine, were quantitatively reanalysed with a recently developed liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC‐MS/MS) method for unconjugated buprenorphine (BUP), norbuprenorphine (NBUP), naloxone (NAL), and their respective conjugated metabolites, buprenorphine glucuronide (BUPG), norbuprenorphine glucuronide (NBUPG), and naloxone glucuronide (NALG). The cases were divided, according to medical examiners' decision, to buprenorphine poisonings and other causes of death. The groups were compared for urinary concentrations and metabolite concentration ratios of the six analytes. All median concentrations were higher in the buprenorphine poisoning group. The median concentration of BUPG was significantly higher and the median metabolite ratios NBUP/BUP, NBUPG/BUPG, and NBUPtotal/BUPtotal were significantly lower in poisonings than in other causes of death. Naloxone‐related concentrations and ratios were not significantly different between the groups.
The interplay of fungal and bacterial microbiomes on rainforest frogs following a disease outbreak
Authors: McKnight Donald T. , Huerlimann Roger , Bower Deborah S. , Schwarzkopf Lin , Alford Ross A. , Zenger Kyall R.
Published: July 2022

Emerging infectious diseases are a serious threat to wildlife populations, and there is growing evidence that host microbiomes play important roles in infection dynamics, possibly even mitigating diseases. Nevertheless, most research on this topic has focused only on bacterial microbiomes, while fungal microbiomes have been largely neglected. To help fill this gap in our knowledge, we examined both the bacterial and fungal microbiomes of four sympatric Australian frog species, which had different population‐level responses to the emergence of chytridiomycosis, a widespread disease caused by the fungal pathogenBatrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd). We sequenced 16,884 fungal amplicon sequence variants (ASVs) and 41,774 bacterial ASVs. Bacterial communities had higher richness and were less variable within frog species than were fungal communities. Nevertheless, both communities were correlated for both ASV richness and beta diversity (i.e., frogs with similar bacterial richness and community composition tended to also have similar fungal richness and community composition). This suggests that either one microbial community was having a large impact on the other or that they were both being driven by similar environmental factors. For both microbial taxa, we found little evidence of associations betweenBd(prevalence or intensity) and either individuals' ASVs or beta diversity. However, there was mixed evidence of associations between richness (both bacterial and fungal) andBd, with high richness potentially providing a protective effect. Surprisingly, the relative abundance of bacteria that have previously been shown to inhibitBdwas also positively associated withBdinfection intensity, suggesting that a high relative abundance of those bacteria provides poor protection against infection.
Autoimmunity and SARS‐CoV‐2 infection: Unraveling the link in neurological disorders
Authors: Latorre Daniela
Published: July 2022

According to the World Health Organization, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) has already infected more than 400 million people and caused over 5 million deaths globally. The infection is associated with a wide spectrum of clinical manifestations, ranging from no signs of illness to severe pathological complications that go beyond the typical respiratory symptoms. On this note, new‐onset neurological and neuropsychiatric syndromes have been increasingly reported in a large fraction of COVID‐19 patients, thus potentially representing a significant public health threat. Although the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms remain elusive, a growing body of evidence suggests that SARS‐CoV‐2 infection may trigger an autoimmune response, which could potentially contribute to the establishment and/or exacerbation of neurological disorders in COVID‐19 patients. Shedding light on this aspect is urgently needed for the development of effective therapeutic intervention. This review highlights the current knowledge of the immune responses occurring in Neuro‐COVID patients and discusses potential immune‐mediated mechanisms by which SARS‐CoV‐2 infection may trigger neurological complications.
Uncovering the Synchronous Role of Bis‐borane with Nucleophilic Solvent as Frustrated Lewis Pair in Metal‐Free Catalytic Dehydrogenation of Ammonia‐borane**
Authors: Sultana Munia , Bhattacharjee Ishita , Bhunya Sourav , Paul Ankan
Published: July 2022

Metal free catalysis has emerged as a viable alternative for transition metal based catalysts for enabling different chemical processes, particularly for de/hydrogenation reactions. Herein, employing theoretical studies we reveal the unexpected Frustrated Lewis Pair like reactivity of a boron based catalyst, 9,10‐dichlorodiboraanthracene and the ethereal solvent to enable dehydrogenation of ammonia‐borane (NH3BH3, AB) under moderate conditions. The mechanistic channels thus uncovered reveal that the boron catalyst abstracts a hydride from NH3BH3 followed by crucial stabilization of the NH3BH2+ moiety by the nucleophilic action of the solvent. H2 is released by the combination of hydride and proton from the borohydride moiety and the solvated NH3BH2+ respectively. Catalysis becomes unfeasible if the Lewis base‐like action of the ethereal solvent is not taken into consideration. Thus, it is suggested that the clandestine partnership of the Lewis Acid, Boron catalyst and the Lewis Base, ethereal solvent, i. e. FLP like action enables dehydrogenation of NH3BH3 in the instant case.
Hierarchical Rhree‐dimensional CoNi LDH‐Ni3S2 Supported on Ni Foam as a Stable and Efficient Electrocatalytic Material for Overall Water Splitting
Authors: Liu Yitong , Zhao Yiwei , Zhang Yuanqing , Xing Shuangxi
Published: July 2022

Herein, a novel self‐supporting three‐dimensional nanostructured CoNi LDH‐Ni3S2 catalyst was generated in a two‐step process combining hydrothermal synthesis and high‐temperature electrodeposition techniques. The CoNi LDH‐Ni3S2/NF electrode exhibits superior electrocatalytic performance with low overpotentials of 193 and 382 mV in 1 M KOH to drive a high current density of 100 mA cm−2 for HER and OER, respectively. Meanwhile, a small cell voltage of 1.51 V was obtained upon using CoNi LDH‐Ni3S2/NF as a dual‐functional catalyst. Additionally, CoNi LDH‐Ni3S2/NF exhibits high stability with almost no change in HER and OER overpotentials and electrocatalytic total decomposition of water within 80,000 s.
Anion Exchange Membrane Water Electrolysis from Catalyst Design to the Membrane Electrode Assembly
Authors: Faid Alaa Y. , Sunde Svein
Published: July 2022

Anion exchange membrane (AEM) electrolysis aims to combine the benefits of alkaline electrolysis, such as stability of the cheap catalyst and advantages of proton‐exchange membrane systems, like the ability to operate at differential pressure, fast dynamic response, low energy losses, and higher current density. However, as of today, AEM electrolysis is limited by AEMs exhibiting insufficient ionic conductivity as well as lower catalyst activity and stability. Herein, recent developments and outlook of AEM electrolysis such as cost‐efficient transition metal catalysts for hydrogen evolution reaction and oxygen evolution reaction, AEMs, ionomer, electrolytes, ionomer catalyst–electrolyte interaction, and membrane‐electrode assembly performance and stability are described.
Validation of physics‐based regional‐scale ground‐motion simulations of the 2008 Mw 7.9 Wenchuan earthquake for engineering applications
Authors: Zhang Fan , Mavroeidis George P. , Wang Jingquan , Papageorgiou Apostolos S.
Published: July 2022

The 2008 Mw 7.9 Wenchuan earthquake, one of the largest continental intraplate events instrumentally recorded, struck the central part of Sichuan Province in southwestern China causing great destruction and loss of life but also providing a wealth of seismological data, geodetic measurements, and tectonic observations. The Wenchuan earthquake ruptured two northwest‐dipping imbricate oblique reverse faults along the middle segment of the Longmenshan fault zone—a northeast‐trending thrust belt located at the boundary between the Tibetan Plateau and the Sichuan Basin. In this study, a hybrid approach that combines deterministic modeling at low frequencies with stochastic modeling at high frequencies is used to simulate broadband ground motions at 52 strong‐motion stations and 506 geodetic sites in the vicinity of the causative fault. The low‐frequency components of the synthetic ground motion are simulated using an extended kinematic source model embedded in a layered medium, whereas the high‐frequency components are generated using a stochastic finite‐fault model. The two independently derived ground‐motion components are then combined using matched filtering at a crossover frequency of 0.8 Hz to generate broadband ground‐motion time histories and response spectra. The temporal and spectral characteristics of the synthetic and recorded ground motions at the 52 strong‐motion stations are compared and the effect of soil nonlinearity on the simulated ground motions is investigated through 1‐D nonlinear site response analysis. Finally, the simulated permanent ground displacements at the 506 geodetic sites are evaluated against geodetic observations and the peak amplitudes of the synthetic ground motions at the same locations are compared with predictions of empirical ground‐motion models.
Field Validation of a Novel Passive Sampler for Dissolved PFAS in Surface Waters
Authors: Gardiner Christine , Robuck Anna , Becanova Jitka , Cantwell Mark , Kaserzon Sarit , Katz David , Mueller Jochen , Lohmann Rainer
Published: July 2022

Numerous per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are of growing concern worldwide due to their ubiquitous presence, bioaccumulation and adverse effects. Surface waters in the United States have displayed elevated concentrations of PFAS, but so far discrete water sampling has been the commonly applied sampling approach. In the present study we field-tested a novel integrative passive sampler, a microporous polyethylene tube, and derived sampling rates (Rs) for nine PFAS in surface waters. Three sampling campaigns were conducted, deploying polyethylene tube passive samplers in the effluent of two wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) effluents and across Narragansett Bay (Rhode Island, USA) for 1 month each in 2017 and 2018. Passive samplers exhibited linear uptake of PFAS in the WWTP effluents over 16–29 days, with in situ Rs for nine PFAS ranging from 10 ml day−1 (perfluoropentanoic acid) to 29 ml day−1 (perfluorooctanesulfonic acid). Similar sampling rates of 19 ± 4.8 ml day−1 were observed in estuarine field deployments. Applying these Rs values in a different WWTP effluent predicted dissolved PFAS concentrations mostly within 50% of their observations in daily composite water samples, except for perfluorobutanoic acid (where predictions from passive samplers were 3 times greater than measured values), perfluorononanoic acid (1.9 times), perfluorodecanoic acid (1.7 times), and perfluoropentanesulfonic acid (0.1 times). These results highlight the potential use of passive samplers as measurement and assessment tools of PFAS in dynamic aquatic environments. Environ Toxicol Chem 2022;41:2375–2385. © 2022 SETAC

Abstract

A novel integrative passive sampler was field-tested and sampling rates derived for nine per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances in two wastewater treatment plant effluents and in Narragansett Bay surface waters.
The effect of broadband Internet on the gender gap in mental health: Evidence from Germany
Authors: Golin Marta
Published: July 2022

Mental health disorders are among the leading causes of disease burden worldwide. Recently, attention has been drawn to the Internet and social media as determinants of the increase in mental health conditions in recent years. In this paper, I analyze the causal effect of broadband Internet access on the mental health of adults. I leverage confidential information on the coordinates of respondents to the German Socio‐Economic Panel (GSOEP) and exploit technological features of the German telecommunication network to instrument for broadband Internet access. The results are suggestive that broadband Internet leads to worse mental health for women (primarily those aged 17–30) but not for men, thus widening the gender gap in mental disorders. Looking at sub‐facets of mental health, broadband access leads to a worsening of socializing behavior and ability to cope with emotional problems. The fact that the results are concentrated among the younger cohorts of women is suggestive that high Internet usage intensity amplifies the negative effect of broadband internet access on mental health.
A novel skin cancer prevention strategy: Preservice teachers' perceptions of a sun safety intervention and experiences in schools
Authors: Scott Joseph J. , Johnston Robyn S. , Darby Jill , Blane Sally , Strickland Mark , McNoe Bronwen M.
Published: July 2022

Issue addressed

Teachers play a vital role in developing children's sun protection routines however upskilling preservice teachers (PSTs) while at university has not yet been trialled as a targeted skin cancer prevention strategy. Hence, this study investigated PSTs perceptions and experiences of sun safety following a brief pilot intervention and placement in primary schools in Western Australia.

Methods

This study used a triangulation mixed methods design. Participants (n = 161) completed a post intervention survey which was analysed quantitatively. A random sub‐sample was invited to participate in focus groups (three groups, n = 21) and one‐on‐one interviews (n = 4). This data was transcribed and uploaded in NVIVO software for thematic analysis.

Results

Participants felt the intervention increased their awareness of the dangers of overexposure to ultraviolet radiation (UVR) with many feeling more knowledgeable, skilled and confident to teach sun safety in school settings. Most reported clear sun safety messages in their placement schools. However, only 34.4% reported they had been briefed on the school's sun safety procedures. There was consensus among PSTs that sun protection in primary schools needs to be improved to maximise the protection of children from harmful UVR overexposure. Participants supported a need for consistent sun protection messaging across primary schools with greater emphasis on education rather than compliance management to sun protection.

Conclusion

Enhancing existing teacher education programs to include more rigorous curriculum content and pedagogical approaches to sun protection education is a novel skin cancer prevention strategy and could feasibly support PSTs self‐efficacy to effectively deliver sun safety curriculum in Australian schools.
Oxygen vacancies and N‐doping in organic–inorganic pre‐intercalated vanadium oxide for high‐performance aqueous zinc‐ion batteries
Authors: Zhang Feng , Du Min , Miao Zhenyu , Li Houzhen , Dong Wentao , Sang Yuanhua , Jiang Hechun , Li Wenzhi , Liu Hong , Wang Shuhua
Published: July 2022

Pre‐intercalation of metal ions into vanadium oxide is an effective strategy for optimizing the performance of rechargeable zinc‐ion battery (ZIB) cathodes. However, the battery long‐lifespan achievement and high‐capacity retention remain a challenge. Increasing the electronic conductivity while simultaneously prompting the cathode diffusion kinetics can improve ZIB electrochemical performance. Herein, N‐doped vanadium oxide (N‐(Zn,en)VO) via defect engineering is reported as cathode for aqueous ZIBs. Positron annihilation and electron paramagnetic resonance clearly indicate oxygen vacancies in the material. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations show that N‐doping and oxygen vacancies concurrently increase the electronic conductivity and accelerate the diffusion kinetics of zinc ions. Moreover, the presence of oxygen vacancies substantially increases the storage sites of zinc ions. Therefore, N‐(Zn,en)VO exhibits excellent electrochemical performance, including a peak capacity of 420.5 mA h g−1at 0.05 A g−1, a high power density of more than 10 000 W kg−1at 65.3 Wh kg−1, and a long cycle life at 5 A g−1(4500 cycles without capacity decay). The methodology adopted in our study can be applied to other cathodic materials to improve their performance and extend their practical applications.

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The significance of nanofiber polyglycolic acid for promoting tissue repair in a rat subcutaneous implantation model
Authors: Sueyoshi Yu , Niwa Atsuko , Nishikawa Yuki , Isogai Noritaka
Published: July 2022

Among various biomaterials, we focused on nanofiber‐based polyglycolic acid (PGA) fabric and examined the dynamics of cells that migrate within the non‐woven fabric after implantation. The efficacy of nano‐PGA as a tissue reinforcement in the process of subcutaneous tissue repair was immunohistochemically investigated. Two types of clinically available PGA non‐woven sheet (nano‐PGA: fiber diameter = 2.0 μm, conventional PGA: fiber diameter = 14.2 μm) were used and subcutaneously implanted in rats. Samples were collected 3 days, and 1, 2, 3, and 4 weeks after the implantation to perform histological and immunohistochemical (CD68, CD163, α‐SMA, Type I collagen, CD34, MCP‐1, IL‐6, TNF‐α, TGF‐β, VEGF, IgG) examinations to assess the expression of molecules related to inflammation or tissue repair. Immunohistochemical analysis in nano‐PGA revealed that the intensity and positive cells (CD68, MCP‐1, IL‐6, TNF‐α) significantly increased which indicated an early inflammatory response. This was followed by phagocytosis of nano‐PGA with foreign body giant cells and CD68+ macrophages. Finally, the number of proliferating cells (CD163, α‐SMA, TGF‐β) and angiogenesis (CD34, VEGF) for tissue repair promoted the formation of collagen fibers (type I collagen). Unlike nano‐PGA, implantation of conventional PGA sheet resulted in a prolonged inflammatory response and was characterized by the presence of discontinuous collagen fibers with many foreign body giant cells, which did not lead to tissue repair. Nano‐PGA sheets demonstrated a better tissue compatibility compared with conventional PGA by inducing early polarization to M2 phenotype macrophages, which triggered subsequent angiogenesis and tissue repair in the subcutaneous tissue.
Farrerol exhibits inhibitory effects on lung adenocarcinoma cells by activating the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway
Authors: Guo Yi , Li Quan , Xia Rongmu , Cai Chuanshu
Published: July 2022

Farrerol is an herbal compound extracted from rhododendron. Here, our study is to investigate biological effects of farrerol on lung adenocarcinoma (LAC) cells. Human LAC cell lines and xenograft mouse model were utilized to define the effects of farrerol on tumor growth. Our findings indicated that farrerol significantly reduced LAC cell viability as well as the colony‐forming capacity. Flow cytometry analysis demonstrated that farrerol contributed to cell apoptosis and G0/G1 phase cell cycle arrest. Mechanistically, farrerol treatment upregulated proapoptotic molecules (Bak, Bid, cleaved caspase‐3 and cleaved caspase‐9) and senescence markers (p16 and p2), but downregulated antiapoptosis genes (Bcl‐2 and Bcl‐XL) and cell cycle‐associated genes (CyclinD1 and CDK4); meanwhile, the phosphorylation of retinoblastoma (Rb) protein was attenuated upon pretreatment of LAC cells with farrerol in comparison to untreated control. Further studies indicated that farrerol elevated reactive oxygen species levels, activating mitochondrial apoptotic pathway and causing cell apoptosis. However, exposure to farrerol did not result in significant apoptosis in normal lung epithelial cells, suggesting a tumor‐specific effect of farrerol on LAC cells. In animal model, farrerol showed a significant inhibitory effect on LAC xenograft tumor growth. And gene expressions in tumor tissues, as mentioned above, were in line with the in vitro results. Taken together, these results suggested that farrerol caused LAC cell apoptosis by activating mitochondrial apoptotic pathway, whereas farrerol treatment had no notable effect on normal lung epithelial cells. Farrerol might be an effective therapeutic drug for LAC.
The protective effect of vitamin U on pentylenetetrazole‐induced brain damage in rats
Authors: Bayrak Gamze , Turkyilmaz Ismet Burcu , Yanardag Refiye
Published: July 2022

Pentylenetetrazole (PTZ) is preferred for experimental epilepsy induction. PTZ damages brain and other organs by elevating oxidative substances. Vitamin U (Vit U) is sulfur derivative substance that proved to be an excellent antioxidant. The current study was intended to determine the protective role of Vit U on PTZ‐induced brain damage. Male Sprague–Dawley rats were separated into four groups. The Control group (Group I), was given saline for 7 days intraperitoneally (i.p); Vit U (Group II) was given as 50 mg/kg/day for 7 days by gavage; PTZ was injected into animals (Group III) at a single dose of 60 mg/kg, by i.p; PTZ + Vit U group (Group IV) was administered PTZ and Vit U in same dose and time as aforementioned. After the experiment was terminated, brain tissues were taken for the preparation of homogenates. In the PTZ group, glutathione and lipid peroxidation levels, alkaline phosphatase, myeloperoxidase, xanthine oxidase, acetylcholine esterase, antioxidant enzyme activities, total oxidant status, oxidative stress index, reactive oxygen species, and nitric oxide levels were increased. However, total antioxidant capacity was decreased in the PTZ group. Vit U ameliorated these effects in the PTZ‐induced brain damage. Consequently, we can suggest that Vit U protected brain tissue via its antioxidant feature against PTZ kindling epilepsy.
Pubertal emergence of testosterone effects on depressive symptoms in boys
Authors: Culbert Kristen M. , Milá Roa Antonio , Stevens Kimberly , Sisk Cheryl L. , Burt S. Alexandra , Klump Kelly L.
Published: July 2022

Background

Puberty‐driven increases in the secretion of testosterone may be a biological factor that protects males against the development of depression. Although all males produce testosterone, there are substantial between‐person differences that could contribute to differential vulnerability to depression among pre‐adolescent and adolescent boys, particularly after pubertal onset. Indeed, experimental animal and human data have shown that low testosterone increases risk for depressive‐like symptoms in males, whereas higher levels of testosterone may be protective; however, prior studies have primarily investigated these effects in adulthood. This study investigated whether lower circulating levels of testosterone predict depressive symptoms in pre‐adolescent and adolescent boys, and in particular, whether the testosterone‐depression association becomes prominent with advancing pubertal maturation.

Methods

Male twins (N = 213; ages 10–15 years) from the Michigan State University Twin Registry self‐reported their depressive symptoms and pubertal status using the Children's Depression Inventory and the Pubertal Development Scale, respectively. Salivary testosterone was assayed using high‐sensitivity enzyme immunoassays. Mixed Linear Models (MLMs), which could account for the non‐independence of twin data, were used for analyses.

Results

As expected, lower testosterone concentrations were associated with higher depressive symptoms, and the magnitude of this effect increased with advancing pubertal status. In contrast, boys with higher levels of testosterone showed low levels of depressive symptomatology at all stages of pubertal maturation.

Conclusions

Overall, these findings enhance understanding of within‐sex variability in risk for depression in boys – average‐to‐high testosterone levels may underlie the general male resilience to depression after pubertal onset, whereas lower levels may increase vulnerability during/after puberty.
The relationship between CPAP and health literacy: A prospective observational study
Authors: Li Yu , Shikino Kiyoshi , Terada Jiro , Katsumata Yusuke , Kinouchi Toru , Koshikawa Ken , Yokokawa Daiki , Tsukamoto Tomoko , Noda Kazutaka , Ikusaka Masatomi
Published: July 2022

Background

We aimed to assess differences in health literacy between those who improved CPAP non‐adherent and those who remained non‐adherent.

Methods

We included patients newly diagnosed with sleep apnea syndrome who had started CPAP therapy between February 2019 and October 2020 with ≥6 follow‐up months or who self‐interrupted CPAP therapy <6 months. We recorded the CPAP wearing time after 3 and 6 months. Patients were divided into the CPAP adherent (using CPAP for ≥4 h per night) and non‐adherent (self‐interrupted CPAP therapy/using CPAP for <4 h per night) groups. We compared the European Health Literacy Survey Questionnaire 47 (HLS‐EU‐Q47) score between those who were CPAP non‐adherent after 3 months and become CPAP adherent after 6 months, and those who remained non‐adherent after 6 months.

Results

At 3 months, 34 patients were CPAP non‐adherent. After 6 months, there were 7 and 27 patients in the CPAP adherent and non‐adherent groups, respectively. There was a significant difference in the HLS‐EU‐Q47 score between the patients who became adherent to CPAP and who remained non‐adherent after 6 months.

Conclusion

Previously non‐adherent patients who subsequently became adherent tended to have higher health literacy.
The global impact of COVID‐19 pandemic on the incidence of pediatric new‐onset type 1 diabetes and ketoacidosis: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Rahmati Masoud , Keshvari Maryam , Mirnasuri Shahrzad , Yon Dong K. , Lee Seung W. , Il Shin Jae , Smith Lee
Published: July 2022

Viral infections may increase the risk of developing type 1 diabetes (T1D), and recent reports suggest that Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID‐19) might have increased the incidence of pediatric T1D and/or diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). Therefore, this meta‐analysis aims to estimate the risk of global pediatric new‐onset T1D, DKA, and severe DKA before and after the COVID‐19 pandemic. A systematic search of MEDLINE/PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus, and EMBASE was conducted for articles published up to March 2022. A random‐effects meta‐analysis was performed to compare the relative risk of T1D and DKA among pediatric patients with T1D between the COVID‐19 pre‐pandemic and pandemic periods. We also compared glucose and HbA1c values in children who were newly diagnosed with T1D before and after the COVID‐19 pandemic. The global incidence rate of T1D in the 2019 period was 19.73 per 100 000 children and 32.39 per 100 000 in the 2020 period. Compared with pre‐COVID‐19 pandemic, the number of worldwide pediatric new‐onset T1D, DKA, and severe DKA during the first year of the COVID‐19 pandemic increased by 9.5%, 25%, and 19.5%, respectively. Compared with pre‐COVID‐19 pandemic levels, the median glucose, and HbA1c values in newly diagnosed T1D children after the COVID‐19 pandemic increased by 6.43% and 6.42%, respectively. The COVID‐19 pandemic has significantly increased the risk of global pediatric new‐onset T1D, DKA, and severe DKA. Moreover, higher glucose and HbA1c values in newly diagnosed T1D children after the COVID‐19 pandemic mandates targeted measures to raise public and physician awareness.
Long‐term trends in aerosol optical properties and their relationship with cloud properties over southern India and Sri Lanka
Authors: Chathurangika Nimashi P. M. , Haque Md. Mozammel , Nyasulu Matthews , Khan Rehana , Ahmmad Nazir , Sheikh M. A. Alim , Hossain Mohammad Lokman , Rahman A. K. M. Lutfor
Published: July 2022

Asia is one of the continents where aerosol levels are comparatively higher across the world. India and Sri Lanka are some of the regions in the South Asian continent where pollution is increasing rapidly due to the rise in industrialization. The present study investigated the interactions between atmospheric aerosol and cloud microphysical properties and their spatial, temporal, and seasonal variation at local and regional scales during 2000–2020 using remotely sensed data sets in south India and Sri Lanka. High values (>0.5) of annual mean aerosol optical depth (AOD) were detected over southern India. On the other hand, lower values (0.2) were detected over Sri Lanka. In terms of seasonality, a high level of AOD was registered in both southern India and Sri Lanka during the premonsoon and monsoon periods. The angstrom exponent (AE412‐470) revealed the dominance of fine‐mode particles during winter and the postmonsoon, generally from biomass burning and industrial activities. The long‐term analysis exhibited an increasing trend of atmospheric aerosol concentration over southern India and Sri Lanka. Interestingly, there was a decrease in AOD during the year 2020; the reduction in anthropogenic activities in the region was attributed to the COVID‐19 lockdown, hence less accumulation of pollutants in the atmosphere. AOD showed a positive correlation with cloud effective radius over the western areas along with the Indian Ocean, north, southeast, and southern end of India, while negatively correlated with high AOD areas such as northeast of the study domain. The AOD and cloud optical depth were positively correlated over continental areas, while negative correlations were notable over the Indian Ocean around Sri Lanka, implying heterogeneities of aerosol's effect on cloud microphysical properties over the study area. Finally, the results from wind circulation and backward air mass trajectories reveal higher concentrations of fine‐mode particles associated with the continent, whereas coarse‐mode particles originate from the oceans.