bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Altered ripple density inside seizure onset zone in patients with focal cortical dysplasia‐associated epilepsy
Authors: Xu Cuiping , Zhang Xiaohua , Zhang Guojun , Yan Xiaoming , Ma Kai , Qiao Liang , Wang Xueyuan , Zhang Xi , Yu Tao , Wang Yuping , Li Yongjie
Published: May 2021

Purpose

To evaluate the clinical and stereoelectroencephalography (SEEG) features and postsurgical outcome in a uniform series of patients who underwent epilepsy surgery and had pathologically confirmation of focal cortical dysplasia (FCD).

Methods

We studied consecutive patients with drug‐refractory epilepsy who underwent SEEG recording. The high‐frequency oscillations (HFOs) features of SEEG, clinical characteristics, and surgical outcome were evaluated.

Results

Sixty patients (31 FCD type I, 13 II, and 16 III) were analyzed retrospectively. Patients with type II tended to have their seizures at an earlier age than those with I and III (p < .01). Six different ictal onset patterns (IOPs) were identified. In patients with temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE), the most common patterns were rhythmic spikes or spike waves and LFRS, and in patients with extratemporal epilepsy, the most common patterns were low‐voltage fast activity (LVFA) and rhythmic spikes or spike waves. In addition, ripple density was found to increase significantly from the interictal to ictal onset sections and from the ictal onset to ictal evolution sections in patients with FCD I (p < .001). Regarding the distinct IOPs, ripple density continued to increase significantly between the interictal and ictal onset sections in LVFA, rhythmic spikes or spike waves, and burst of high‐amplitude polyspikes (p < .05). Ripple density decreased between ictal onset and ictal evolution sections in patterns of LVFA and rhythmic spikes or spike waves (p < .05). The mean follow‐up duration was 2.7 years (range 1–4.2), and 66.7% (n = 40) were class I. Patients with subtypes III and II had favorable surgical outcome than those with I.

Conclusion

The clinical expression of seizure may depend on the pathological types with FCD II patients exhibiting their seizures at an earlier age. Distinct IOPs may demonstrate different ripple features and distinguishing the IOPs is very necessary to have an insight into the electrophysiological characteristics.
Real‐world utility of next‐generation sequencing for targeted gene analysis and its application to treatment in lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Kim Jwa Hoon , Yoon Shinkyo , Lee Dae Ho , Jang Se Jin , Chun Sung‐Min , Kim Sang‐We
Published: May 2021

Purpose

This study investigated the clinical utility of next‐generation sequencing (NGS) for detection of genetic alterations and its implications on treatment of lung adenocarcinoma in real‐world practice.

Patients and Methods

Data were reviewed for 391 patients with lung adenocarcinoma who underwent NGS between March 2017 and October 2018. Formalin‐fixed, paraffin‐embedded archival samples were used for performing NGS targeting 382 genes, including all exons of 199 genes, 184 hotspots, and the partial introns of 8 genes often rearranged in cancer. Survival analysis was performed for stage IV disease.

Results

Among the 391 patients, at least one actionable mutation was identified in 294 patients (75.2%). The most commonly mutated gene was EGFR (n = 130, 33.2%), involving EGFR exon 19 deletion (n = 48, 12.3%), L858R (n = 47, 12%), and others (n = 35, 9%), followed by KRAS (n = 48, 12.3%), ALK (n = 40, 10.2%), RET (6%), MET (3%), ROS‐1 (3%), and BRAF (2%) mutations. TP53 (46.9%) and CDKN2A (12.6%) mutations were common co‐mutations in patients with AMs. With a median follow‐up duration of 16.8 months, median overall survival was 36.8 months in patients with stage IV disease. Patients treated with the corresponding targeted therapy for AMs based on NGS reports lived significantly longer than those not treated with such therapy (p < 0.001). After multivariate analysis, targeted therapy for AM was a significantly favorable factor for survival (AM without targeted therapy vs. AM with targeted therapy, hazard ratio 2.58, 95% confidence interval 1.57–4.25; p < 0.001).

Conclusion

This study revealed that AMs could be comparably detected using NGS. Based on these NGS results, a suitable targeted therapy can be selected, which may improve survival in patients with lung adenocarcinoma. This NGS‐based approach is useful in real‐world practice to provide guidance when selecting targeted therapy.
The debatable presence of PIWI‐interacting RNAs in invasive breast cancer
Authors: Kärkkäinen Emmi , Heikkinen Sami , Tengström Maria , Kosma Veli‐Matti , Mannermaa Arto , Hartikainen Jaana M.
Published: May 2021

Numerous factors influence breast cancer (BC) prognosis, thus complicating the prediction of outcome. By identifying biomarkers that would distinguish the cases with poorer response to therapy already at the time of diagnosis, the rate of survival could be improved. Lately, Piwi‐interacting RNAs (piRNAs) have been introduced as potential cancer biomarkers, however, due to the recently raised challenges in piRNA annotations, further evaluation of piRNAs’ involvement in cancer is required. We performed small RNA sequencing in 227 fresh‐frozen breast tissue samples from the Eastern Finnish Kuopio Breast Cancer Project material to study the presence of piRNAs in BC and their associations with the clinicopathological features and outcome of BC patients. We observed the presence of three small RNAs annotated as piRNA database entries (DQ596932, DQ570994, and DQ571955) in our samples. The actual species of these RNAs however remain uncertain. All three small RNAs were upregulated in grade III tumors and DQ596932 additionally in estrogen receptor negative tumors. Furthermore, patients with estrogen receptor positive BC and higher DQ571955 had shorter relapse‐free survival and poorer BC‐specific survival, thus indicating DQ571955 as a candidate predictive marker for radiotherapy response in estrogen receptor positive BC. DQ596932 showed possible prognostic value in BC, whereas DQ570994 was identified as a candidate predictive marker for tamoxifen and chemotherapy response. These three small RNAs appear as candidate biomarkers for BC, which could after further investigation provide novel approaches for the treatment of therapy resistant BC. Overall, our results indicate that the prevalence of piRNAs in cancer is most likely not as comprehensive as has been previously thought.
CDK5 positively regulates Notch1 signaling in pancreatic cancer cells by phosphorylation
Authors: Chu Qiaoyun , Wang Liyong , Zhang Jie , Wang Wei , Wang Youxin
Published: May 2021

The marked overexpression of cyclin‐dependent kinase 5 (CDK5) or Notch1 receptor, which plays critical roles in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) development, has been detected in numerous PDAC cell lines and tissues. Although, a previous study has demonstrated that CDK5 inhibition disrupts Notch1 functions in human umbilical vein endothelial cells, the mechanism underlying Notch1 activation regulated by CDK5 remains unclear. Herein, we identified a physical interaction between CDK5 and Notch1 in PDAC cells, with the Notch1 peptide phosphorylated by CDK5/p25 kinase. CDK5 blockade resulted in the profound inhibition of Notch signaling. Accordingly, CDK5 inhibition sensitized PDAC cell proliferation and migration following Notch inhibition. In conclusion, CDK5 positively regulates Notch1 function via phosphorylation, which in turn promotes cell proliferation and migration. The combinational inhibition of CDK5 and Notch signaling may be an effective strategy in the treatment of PDAC.
Finding my voice: A qualitative exploration into the perceived impact of person‐centred counsellor training upon counsellors who were adopted as a baby
Authors: Parkes Charlotte Hannah , Mintz Rita
Published: May 2021

This small‐scale qualitative study explored how qualified person‐centred counsellors who were adopted as a baby perceived the impact of their person‐centred counselling training. The study focused on the adoptees’ experiences of adoption and how these influenced their experience of person‐centred counselling training. Data were analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis to gain insight into how the participants made sense of their lived experience. The findings supported the difficulties associated with adoption, which not only are present in existing literature and research but also placed an emphasis on the particular vulnerabilities associated with being adopted as a baby. The findings further highlighted the positive impact of person‐centred counselling training on the participants’ personal development, which included the following: increased self‐awareness, self‐acceptance, identity development and ‘having a voice’. The findings confer implications for clinical practice in understanding the experience of adoptees who were adopted as a baby and for trainers in the planning and provision of person‐centred training. The research also identifies the healing aspects of person‐centred counselling training, which facilitated the participants’ positive self‐development. In addition, unique opportunities for counsellors who were also adopted as a baby are suggested and the need for the Adoption Support Fund to be extended to allow an adoptee of any age to access therapeutic support is also identified. The links made between adoption and person‐centred training are an original area of research and are worthy of further exploration.
Competency‐based nursing: Reducing cost while maintaining or improving quality
Authors: Hossler Chuck , James Alton
Published: May 2021

The advent of COVID‐19 and subsequent social disruption has exacerbated existing nursing workforce shortages. As nursing education programs and healthcare providers struggle to meet the care needs of their respective communities, the ever‐present challenge of replenishing nursing candidates persists—particularly when those candidates face financial hardships to complete their education. In an effort to mitigate financial hardships, competency‐based education (CBE) nursing offers the opportunity for students to self‐pace their learning and potentially complete their education more quickly. In addition to CBE programs typically being more affordable that traditional “seat time” credit‐based programs, students can potentially yield even more significant savings. Therefore, considering some healthcare providers, accreditors, and candidates may be concerned with CBE program quality, this study assesses the merit of that assertion. Through a comparative of analysis of Western Governors University's (WGU) CBE Nursing Program to similar traditional education state nursing programs, this research finds that CBE nursing programs can reduce cost while maintaining or even improving program quality by a measure of NCLEX pass rates.
Inhibition ofPlasmodium falciparumLysyl‐tRNA Synthetase via a Piperidine‐Ring Scaffold Inspired Cladosporin Analogues
Authors: Babbar Palak , Sato Mizuki , Manickam Yogavel , Mishra Siddhartha , Harlos Karl , Gupta Swati , Parvez Suhel , Kikuchi Haruhisa , Sharma Amit
Published: May 2021

Plasmodium falciparumlysyl‐tRNA synthetase (PfKRS) represents a promising therapeutic anti‐malarial target. Cladosporin was identified as a selective and potentPfKRS inhibitor but lacks metabolic stability. Here, we report chemical synthesis, biological evaluation and structural characterization of analogues where the tetrahydropyran (THP) frame of cladosporin is replaced with the piperidine ring bearing functional group variations. Thermal binding, enzymatic, kinetic and parasitic assays complemented with X‐ray crystallography reveal compounds that are moderate in potency. Co‐crystals ofCla−BandCla−CwithPfKRS reveal key atomic configurations that allow drug binding to and inhibition of the enzyme. Collectively these piperidine ring scaffold inhibitors lay a framework for further structural editing and functional modifications of the cladosporin scaffold to obtain a potent lead.
Severe anaphylactic reaction after blue dye injection for sentinel lymph node biopsy in breast surgery: Report of two cases and literature review
Authors: Frountzas Maximos , Theodoropoulos Charalampos , Karathanasis Panagiotis , Nikolaou Christina , Zografos Constantinos G. , Larentzakis Andreas , Zografos George C. , Michalopoulos Nikolaos V.
Published: May 2021

Anaphylactic reactions, and especially the severe ones (types III and IV), should be kept in mind as considerable adverse effects while using blue dyes for SLNB.
Spatially‐Resolved Insights Into Local Activity and Structure of Ni‐Based CO2 Methanation Catalysts in Fixed‐Bed Reactors
Authors: Serrer Marc‐André , Stehle Matthias , Schulte Mariam L. , Besser Heino , Pfleging Wilhelm , Saraҫi Erisa , Grunwaldt Jan‐Dierk
Published: May 2021

On a Ni/Al2O3 and a Ni−Fe/Al2O3 catalyst spatial concentration and temperature profiles were determined that occur along the axial direction of the catalyst bed. They were correlated to structural gradients under reaction conditions to elucidate the local dependency of catalyst structure on reaction‐induced changes of the gas phase. The quantitative concentration and temperature profiles revealed a hotspot in the first third part of the fixed‐bed, which led to by‐product formation of CO. Complementary structural information obtained by spatially‐resolved quick X‐ray absorption spectroscopy unraveled a strong impact of reaction‐induced gradients in gas phase on the oxidation state of Fe with a higher oxidation state towards the end of the catalyst bed, while Ni was only slightly affected. Diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy further revealed that addition of Fe to a Ni/Al2O3 catalyst reduces the amount of adsorbed CO species. Hence, Fe hampers blocking of active Ni0 sites by CO and preserves a high fraction of reduced Ni species. Furthermore, an alternative reaction pathway observed on Ni−Fe provided locally a higher activity for CO2 hydrogenation. Overall, the importance of considering local gradients in catalytic reactors is demonstrated.
Reversible Vapochromic Luminescence Accompanied by Planar Half‐Chair Conformational Change of a Propeller‐Shaped Boron β‐Diketiminate Complex
Authors: Ito Shunichiro , Yaegashi Misao , Tanaka Kazuo , Chujo Yoshiki
Published: May 2021

Leakage of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) is one of the most severe industrial problems, because it can cause environmental pollution, global warming, fire, and explosion. Hence, the visualization of leakage is an essential technology to detect it at an early stage. Molecular crystals, fluorescence color of which can be changed by the exposure to VOCs could potentially serve as the sensing materials for realizing rapid and facile VOC detection. However, these materials usually require harsh conditions, such as heating or a vacuum, to recover their initial phases for reuse. Therefore, it remains a challenge to obtain completely reversible sensing systems without such energy‐consuming recycling processes. Herein, the reversible color change of fluorescence from the crystals of a propeller‐shaped boron β‐diketiminate complex is reported. The complex was crystallized in distinct crystalline phases having different luminescent colors. Importantly, these phases were interconverted very rapidly (time constant <60 s) and repeatedly upon exposure to the vapors of the appropriate VOCs. The small energy differences between conformers of the complex could lead to this pseudopolymorphic behavior. This finding could be applied for the development of further eco‐friendly reversible sensing materials based on four‐coordinated boron complexes.
E4 Transfer (E=P, As) to Ni Complexes
Authors: Heinl Veronika , Schmidt Monika , Eckhardt Maria , Eberl Miriam , Seitz Andreas E. , Balázs Gábor , Seidl Michael , Scheer Manfred
Published: May 2021

The use of [Cp′′2Zr(η1:1‐E4)] (E=P (1 a), As (1 b), Cp′′=1,3‐di‐tert‐butyl‐cyclopentadienyl) as phosphorus or arsenic source, respectively, gives access to novel stable polypnictogen transition metal complexes at ambient temperatures. The reaction of 1 a/1 b with [CpRNiBr]2 (CpR=CpBn (1,2,3,4,5‐pentabenzyl‐cyclopentadienyl), Cp′′′ (1,2,4‐tri‐tert‐butyl‐cyclopentadienyl)) was studied, to yield novel complexes depending on steric effects and stoichiometric ratios. Besides the transfer of the complete En unit, a degradation as well as aggregation can be observed. Thus, the prismane derivatives [(Cp′′′Ni)2(μ,η3:3‐E4)] (2 a (E=P); 2 b (E=As)) or the arsenic containing cubane [(Cp′′′Ni)3(μ3‐As)(As4)] (5) are formed. Furthermore, the bromine bridged cubanes of the type [(CpRNi)3{Ni(μ‐Br)}(μ3‐E)4]2 (CpR=Cp′′′: 6 a (E=P), 6 b (E=As), CpR=CpBn: 8 a (E=P), 8 b (E=As)) can be isolated. Here, a stepwise transfer of En units is possible, with a cyclo‐E42− ligand being introduced and unprecedented triple‐decker compounds of the type [{(CpRNi)3Ni(μ3‐E)4}2(μ,η4:4‐E′4)] (CpR=CpBn, Cp′′′; E/E′=P, As) are obtained.
Teaching‐learning laboratory “makeScience!” and students’ interest – Studies on the learning environment “Donor‐Acceptor Reactions – placed in Bubble Tea Balls”
Authors: Syskowski Sabrina , Kunina‐Habenicht Olga , Ducci Matthias , Wagner Ingo
Published: May 2021

Die Lernumgebung „Donator‐Akzeptor‐Reaktionen – platziert in Bubble‐Tea‐Bällchen“ wurde im Rahmen des Verbundprojekts MINT2KA für Schüler:innen der gymnasialen Oberstufe entwickelt. Ihre Erprobung erfolgte in den Lehr‐Lern‐Laboren der Pädagogischen Hochschulen Karlsruhe und Heidelberg. Im Mittelpunkt der wissenschaftlichen Begleitung stand die Perspektive der Schüler:innen bezüglich ihrer Wahrnehmungen beim Besuch der Lehr‐Lern‐Labore. Im Speziellen wurde das situationale Interesse, die soziale Eingebundenheit und die Selbsttätigkeit von Schüler:innen untersucht. Dabei wurde das gezeigte Interesse als mehrdimensionales Konstrukt verstanden und die Beziehung der Schüler:innen zur Erfahrung während der Lernumgebung als zentrales Element gesehen. Im Rahmen der Untersuchungen wurde der Grad des situationalen Interesses durch die subjektiv empfundene Wertschätzung, das emotionale Erleben, die wertbezogene Valenz und die epistemische Orientierung einer Person in Bezug auf den Laborbesuch erfasst. Die Resultate der Fragebogenstudie ergaben positive Werte hinsichtlich der Subdimensionen des situationalen Interesses. Darüber hinaus konnte eine hohe Selbsttätigkeit der Schüler:innen sowie eine soziale Eingebundenheit durch die evozierte lernförderliche Atmosphäre festgestellt werden.
A new adjusted Liu estimator for the Poisson regression model
Authors: Amin Muhammad , Akram Muhammad Nauman , Kibria B. M. Golam
Published: May 2021

The Poisson regression model (PRM) is usually applied in the situations when the dependent variable is in the form of count data. For estimating the unknown parameters of the PRM, maximum likelihood estimator (MLE) is commonly used. However, its performance is suspected when the regressors are multicollinear. The performance of MLE is not satisfactory in the presence of multicollinearity. To mitigate this problem, different biased estimators are discussed in the literature, that is, ridge and Liu. However, the drawback of using the traditional Liu estimator is that in most of the times, the shrinkage parameterd, attains a negative value which is the major disadvantage of traditional Liu estimator. So, to overcome this problem, we propose a new adjusted Poisson Liu estimator (APLE) for the PRM which is the robust solution to the problem of multicollinear explanatory variables. For assessment purpose, we perform a theoretical comparison with other competitive estimators. In addition, a Monte Carlo simulation study is conducted to show the superiority of the new estimator. At the end, two real life applications are also considered. From the findings of simulation study and two empirical applications, it is observed that the APLE is the most robust and consistent estimation method as compared to the MLE and other competitive estimators.
Enhanced Conversion Efficiency Enabled by Species Migration in Direct Solar Energy Storage
Authors: Lin Guanzhou , Almakrami Husain , Emran Huzaifa , Ruthen Amar , Hu Jie , Wei Zi , Liu Fuqiang
Published: May 2021

Solar energy can be stored via either an indirect route in which electricity is involved as an intermediate step, or a direct route that utilizes photogenerated charge carriers for direct solar energy conversion. In this study, we investigate the fundamental difference between the direct and indirect routes in solar energy conversion using a new photoelectrochemical energy storage cell (PESC) as a model device. This PESC centers on a liquid junction that utilizes CH3NH3PbI3 perovskite to drive photoelectrochemical reactions of Benzoquinone (BQ) and Ferrocene (Fc) redox species. The experimental studies show that the equilibrium redox potentials are 0.1 V and −0.78 V (vs Ag/AgNO3) for Fc+/Fc and BQ/BQ.−, respectively, which would produce a theoretical open‐circuit voltage of 0.88 V for the storage device. The physics‐based computational analysis shows a relatively flat reaction rate distribution in the electrode for the indirect route; however, in the direct route the photoelectrochemical reaction rate is critically affected by electron concentration due to strong light absorption of the perovskite material, which has been shown to vary by at least 10‐fold in the transverse direction across the photoelectrode. The drastic variation of reaction rate in the photoelectrode creates an electric field that is 7.5 times stronger than the bulk electrolyte, which causes the photo‐converted reaction product (i. e., BQ.−) to drift away from the photoelectrode thereby creating a constant reaction driving force. As a result, it has been shown that the intrinsic solar to chemical conversion (ISTC) efficiency improves by ∼40 % for the direct route compared to the indirect route at 0.05 mA/cm2.
Green patenting and corporate social responsibility: Does family involvement in business matter?
Authors: Aiello Francesco , Cardamone Paola , Mannarino Lidia , Pupo Valeria
Published: May 2021

This paper explores whether family and non‐family firms differ in terms of their capability to introduce green patenting. By considering the environmental performance as a corporate social responsibility related concern, the analysis is based on a large data set of patenting activities carried out by Italian manufacturing firms over the period 2009–2017. Results show that family firms are less likely than non‐family firms to implement innovations in green technologies. This holds true whatever the level of accumulation in green and non‐green knowledge.
Recontextualisation and the teaching of subjects
Authors: Hordern Jim
Published: May 2021

This paper interrogates the concept of recontextualisation and discusses its relevance for understandings of the knowledge required for teaching subjects. While various distinctive approaches to recontextualisation can be identified, this analysis primarily draws on the work of Bernstein, with recontextualisation discussed in the broader context of work on the sociology of educational knowledge. It is argued that Bernstein's approach to recontextualisation can be usefully extended by absorbing insights derived from recent work conceptualising expertise and practice, through a reconsideration of disciplinarity, and by reflecting on historical studies of the transformation of specialised practical knowledge. It is suggested that recontextualisation can help us better understand (i) the structure of subjects and their relationship to disciplines and (ii) the relationship between knowledge and ‘content’ in the process of curriculum making. Recontextualisation is nevertheless problematic without an acknowledgement of the role of teachers in shaping and enacting recontextualisation principles and navigating recontextualisation rules.
Noninvasively measured immune responses reflect current parasite infections in a wild carnivore and are linked to longevity
Authors: Ferreira Susana C. M. , Veiga Miguel M. , Hofer Heribert , East Marion L. , Czirják Gábor Á.
Published: May 2021

Host immune defenses are important components of host–parasite interactions that affect the outcome of infection and may have fitness consequences for hosts when increased allocation of resources to immune responses undermines other essential life processes. Research on host–parasite interactions in large free‐ranging wild mammals is currently hampered by a lack of verified noninvasive assays. We successfully adapted existing assays to measure innate and adaptive immune responses produced by the gastrointestinal mucosa in spotted hyena (Crocuta crocuta) feces, including enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs), to quantify fecal immunoglobulins (total IgA, total IgG) and total fecal O‐linked oligosaccharides (mucin). We investigated the effect of infection load by an energetically costly hookworm (Ancylostoma), parasite richness, host age, sex, year of sampling, and clan membership on immune responses and asked whether high investment in immune responses during early life affects longevity in individually known spotted hyenas in the Serengeti National Park, Tanzania. Fecal concentrations of IgA, IgG, and mucin increased with Ancylostoma egg load and were higher in juveniles than in adults. Females had higher mucin concentrations than males. Juvenile females had higher IgG concentrations than juvenile males, whereas adult females had lower IgG concentrations than adult males. High IgA concentrations during the first year of life were linked to reduced longevity after controlling for age at sampling and Ancylostoma egg load. Our study demonstrates that the use of noninvasive methods can increase knowledge on the complex relationship between gastrointestinal parasites and host local immune responses in wild large mammals and reveal fitness‐relevant effects of these responses.
Heart failure related to adult congenital heart disease: prevalence, outcome and risk factors
Authors: Arnaert Stijn , De Meester Pieter , Troost Els , Droogne Walter , Van Aelst Lucas , Van Cleemput Johan , Voros Gabor , Gewillig Marc , Cools Bjorn , Moons Philip , Rega Filip , Meyns Bart , Zhang Zhenyu , Budts Werner , Van De Bruaene Alexander
Published: May 2021

Aims

Information on the prevalence, outcome and factors associated with heart failure in patients with adult congenital heart disease (CHD) (ACHD‐HF) is lacking. We aimed at assessing the prevalence and outcome of ACHD‐HF, the variables associated with ACHD‐HF, and the differences between major anatomical/pathophysiological ACHD subgroups.

Methods and results

We included 3905 patients (age 35.4 ± 13.2 years) under active follow‐up in our institution (last visit >2010). Outcome of ACHD‐HF cases was compared with sex‐ and age‐matched cases. Univariable and multivariable binary logistic regression with ACHD‐HF diagnosis as a dependent variable was performed. Overall prevalence of ACHD‐HF was 6.4% (mean age 49.5 ± 16.7 years), but was higher in patients with cyanotic CHD (41%), Fontan circulation (30%), and a systemic right ventricle (25%). All‐cause mortality was higher in ACHD‐HF cases when compared with controls (mortality rate ratio 4.67 (2.36–9.27); P = 0.0001). In multivariable logistic regression analysis, age at latest follow‐up [per 10 years; odds ratio (OR) 1.52; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.31–1.77], infective endocarditis (OR 4.11; 95%CI 1.80–9.38), history of atrial arrhythmia (OR 3.52; 95%CI 2.17–5.74), pacemaker implantation (OR 2.66; 95% CI 1.50–4.72), end‐organ dysfunction (OR 2.41; 95% CI 1.03–5.63), New York Heart Association class (OR 9.28; 95% CI 6.04–14.25), heart rate (per 10 bpm; OR 1.27; 95% CI 1.08–1.50), ventricular dysfunction (OR 3.62; 95% CI 2.54–5.17), and pulmonary hypertension severity (OR 1.66; 95% CI 1.21–2.30) were independently related to the presence of ACHD‐HF. Some variables (age, atrial arrhythmia, pacemaker, New York Heart Association, and ventricular dysfunction) were related to ACHD‐HF in all anatomical/physiological subgroups, whereas others were not.

Conclusions

ACHD‐HF is prevalent especially in complex CHD and is associated with poor prognosis. Our data provide insight in the factors related to ACHD‐HF including differences between specific anatomical and physiological subgroups.
Advanced isolated light chain amyloid cardiomyopathy with negative immunofixation and normal free light chain ratio
Authors: Zach David , Ablasser Klemens , Kolesnik Ewald , Hoeller Viktoria , Fruhwald Friedrich , Prüller Florian , Reiter Clemens , Beham‐Schmid Christine , Lipp Rainer , Rainer Peter P. , Zirlik Andreas , Wölfler Albert , Verheyen Nicolas
Published: May 2021

Amyloid light chain (AL) cardiomyopathy is the most malignant specific cardiomyopathy. According to international recommendations, it should be ruled out non‐invasively using the serum free light chain (FLC) ratio and immunofixation electrophoresis in both serum and urine. Here, we report on a 69‐year‐old female patient with new‐onset heart failure with mid‐range ejection fraction. Cardiac imaging was highly suggestive of cardiac amyloidosis. Amyloid scintigraphy showed faint myocardial tracer uptake according to Perugini Score 1, but immunofixation was negative and the FLC ratio was normal, despite a slight increase in lambda FLCs. Endomyocardial biopsy revealed advanced myocardial lambda immunoglobulin light chain deposition. Clinically relevant extracardiac amyloid organ infiltration could not be detected. Conclusively, non‐invasive testing can in rare cases fail to exclude isolated AL amyloid cardiomyopathy. We suggest that even slight increases in serum lambda or kappa FLCs should be considered abnormal in suspected cardiac amyloidosis if non‐invasive testing delivers discrepant results.
Titanium Tetrachloride‐Mediated Approach to Access 2‐Chloro‐2‐Substituted Isoindolin‐1‐ones through the Addition of Alkynes to Acyliminium ions
Authors: Xu Wen‐Ke , Guo Jia‐Ming , Chen Zhao‐Dan , Si Chang‐Mei , Wei Bang‐Guo
Published: May 2021

An asymmetric approach to access 2‐substituted isoindolin‐1‐ones 9–11 was developed through TiCl4‐mediated addition‐chlorination of N,O‐acetals 7 a–7 c with terminal alkynes 8. A range of substrates were amenable to this transformation, and the desired substituted isoindolin‐1‐ones were obtained in moderate to good yields with moderate diastereoselectivities.
Perceptions of a sexual advance from gay men leads to negative affect and compensatory acts of masculinity
Authors: Schermerhorn Nathaniel E. C. , Vescio Theresa K.
Published: May 2021

Prior research highlights the relationship between anti‐gay prejudice and masculinity: straight men (1) avoid being misclassified as gay and (2) experience increased anti‐gay attitudes when their masculinity is threatened. We hypothesized that a sexual advance from a gay man would constitute a threat to straight man's masculinity. Four experiments and a cross‐cultural replication (N = 1407) manipulated perceptions of a same‐sex sexual advance and found that straight men experienced greater public discomfort and subsequent anger. This anger predicted both non‐aggressive (e.g., avoidance) and aggressive (e.g., likelihood to use violence) compensatory acts of masculinity. These findings were not ameliorated by reasserting heterosexuality (Study 2), were unique to sexual advances by gay men, not straight women (Study 3), and were replicated in the United States (Study 4a) and the United Kingdom (Study 4b). Findings suggest that a same‐sex sexual advance threatens straight men's masculinity and implications for future research are discussed.
Optimization of wavy fin‐and‐elliptical tube heat exchanger using CFD, multi‐objective genetic algorithm and radical basis function
Authors: Yu Chao , Xue Xiangyao , Shi Kui , Wang Renhao , Zhang Lei , Shao Mingzhen
Published: May 2021

This article presents an accurate and efficient optimization method for heat exchanger. The structure of the original heat exchanger was optimized by combining LHS sampling, CFD simulation, radical basis function, and multi‐objective optimization. Since the Colburn factor j and the friction factor f are a pair of conflicting goals, so the multi‐objective optimization is adopted. The optimization results showed that the Colburn factor j increased by 5.43% and the friction factor f decreased by 23.31%, indicating that the optimized structure had higher heat transfer efficiency and lower resistance performance. The heat transfer mechanism and optimization effect of heat exchanger are explained by using the field synergy principle, which provides a theoretical basis for the structural design optimization of heat exchanger.
Robust joint resource allocation algorithm for hierarchical underwater acoustic communication networks based on outage probability minimization
Authors: Li Xinbin , Zhao Haihong , Han Song , Wang Binghan , Liu Zhixin
Published: May 2021

This study investigates a joint resource allocation (channel selection (CS) and power allocation (PA)) problem with multiple channels, users, constraints, and uncertainties in the underwater acoustic communication networks (UACNs). A hierarchical joint resource allocation model is formulated considering different user requirements. This model aims to minimize the maximum outage probability of lower users while satisfying the outage requirements of upper users. This study presents a robust distributed power allocation (RDPA) algorithm to solve complex PA problems with nonconvex mixed integers and uncertainties in UACNs. The residual energy of nodes is considered in the proposed RDPA algorithm to balance their energy, thereby extending the working time of the entire network. The proposed robust CS algorithm considers the actual and potential interferences of all neighboring nodes to decrease the interferences of nodes and the entire network, thereby reducing the outage probability of the network. Simulation results are presented to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm.
Forecasting carbon price using a multi‐objective least squares support vector machine with mixture kernels
Authors: Zhu Bangzhu , Ye Shunxin , Wang Ping , Chevallier Julien , Wei Yi‐Ming
Published: May 2021

For improving forecasting accuracy and trading performance, this paper proposes a new multi‐objective least squares support vector machine with mixture kernels to forecast asset prices. First, a mixture kernel function is introduced into taking full use of global and local kernel functions, which is adaptively determined following a data‐driven procedure. Second, a multi‐objective fitness function is proposed by incorporating level forecasting and trading performance, and particle swarm optimization is used to synchronously search the optimal model selections of least squares support vector machine with mixture kernels. Taking CO2 assets as examples, the results obtained show that compared with the popular models, the proposed model can achieve higher forecasting accuracy and higher trading performance. The advantages of the mixture kernel function and the multi‐objective fitness function can improve the forecasting ability of the asset price. The findings also show that the models with a high‐level forecasting accuracy cannot always have a high trading performance of asset price forecasting. In contrast, high directional forecasting usually means a high trading performance.
Chain length‐dependent inulin alleviates diet‐induced obesity and metabolic disorders in mice
Authors: Li Liangkui , Zhang Lu , Zhou Linkang , Jin Meijun , Xu Li
Published: May 2021

Dietary fiber is regarded to improve host metabolic disorders through modulating gut microbiota. The study was to investigate the effects of inulin with different degree of polymerization (DP) on adiposity, related metabolic syndrome, and the possible mechanisms from the points of gut microbiota and metabolite changes. C57Bl/6J male mice were randomly allocated to normal diet (ND) group, high‐fat diet (HFD) group, two HFD groups with short‐chain inulin (HFD‐S) and medium and long‐chain inulin (HFD‐ML) for 8 weeks. Compared with HFD treatment, ML‐inulin supplementation significantly decreased weight gain, hepatic steatosis, chronic inflammation, and increased insulin sensitivity, energy expenditure and thermogenesis. This could be mimicked by S‐inulin supplementation to some degree although it is not as effective as ML inulin. Also, mice treated with S and ML inulin had a remarkable alternation in the composition of gut microbiota and increased the production of short‐chain fatty acids (SCFAs). However, reduced serum levels of essential fatty acids, vitamins B1 and B3 by HFD were further decreased by both inulin supplementations. ML inulin can prevent HFD‐induced obesity and the associated metabolic disorders, and may be used as novel gut microbiota modulator to prevent HFD‐induced gut dysbiosis and metabolic disorders.
Effects of power ultrasound treatment on the shelf life of button mushrooms: Digital image processing and microbial counting can reveal the effects
Authors: Ganjdoost Maryam , Aboonajmi Mohammad , Mirsaeedghazi Hossein , Asefpour Vakilian Keyvan
Published: May 2021

Edible button mushroom (Agaricus bisporus) is the most common commercial‐grade mushroom in the world. The shelf life of button mushrooms is limited to a range between two and four days because of enzymatic browning at medium ambient temperature if it is minimally processed. This study aimed to investigate the effects of power ultrasonics and its interaction with several treatments including H2O2 and O3 on increasing the storage quality of edible button mushroom by controlling enzymatic browning. A 100 W ultrasonic bath with a frequency between 20 and 35 kHz was used during the experiments. The storage quality was studied by examining the changes in color and microbial content over 12 days. The results obtained from the digital image processing and total microbial counting showed that the ultrasonic treatment for 6 min is an appropriate method for controlling the color preservation of mushrooms to improve their shelf life. The maximum changes in RGB band, HSV band, L*a*b* band, and microbial content of the mushroom samples under the ultrasonic treatment were equal to 7%, 12%, 10%, and 11%, respectively. Furthermore, having the color properties and microbial content of the samples, the artificial neural network (ANN) was capable of predicting their storage period with an MSE of 0.011.
Predicational ability of phase angle on protein energy wasting in kidney disease patients with renal replacement therapy: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Zhou Haiteng , Yao Wenlong , Pan Da , Sun Guiju
Published: May 2021

Objective

To investigate the ability of phase angle (PA) and body composition for predicting protein energy wasting (PEW) in renal replacement therapy (RRT) patients.

Methods

Renal replacement therapy (RRT) patients were enrolled in this study. Body composition was measured by direct segmental multi‐frequency biolectrical impedance analysis method (DSM‐BIA); phase angle (PA), fat‐free mass (FFM), fat mass (FM), mid‐arm circumference (MAC), WC (waist circumference), and ECW/TBW (extracellular water/total body water) were obtained. Biochemicals (serum albumin, triglyceride, and cholesterol) were tested. PEW patients were classified according to ISRNM (The International Society of Renal Nutrition and Metabolism) criteria. Cutoff value of PA and related variables was calculated by ROC analysis. The ability of body composition variables as indicators to predict PEW was evaluated.

Results

Sixty‐four patients were enrolled in this study. Thirty‐three patients (52.6%) were males, and forty (62.5%) patients were diagnosed with PEW. The ROC curve showed that the optimal cutoff values of PA, FFMI (fat‐free mass index), MAC, WC, and BMI for PEW risk were 4.45°, 16.71, 29.7 cm, 86.4 cm, and 21.1 kg/m2, respectively. These indicators showed significant association with PEW; meanwhile, the PA and MAC can be used as the predictors for PEW with OR 6.333 (95% CI, 1.956–20.505) and 3.267 (95% CI, 1.136–9.394), respectively. Both groups have a lower BUN/Cr ratio (<20).

Conclusion

In the RRT patients, over than 60% patients were diagnosed with PEW. PA, MAC, and other body composition can be used as the independent indicators for predicting PEW in renal replacement therapy kidney disease patients.
Jumps in foreign exchange spot rates and the informational efficiency of currency forwards
Authors: Ibikunle Gbenga , Mollica Vito , Sun Qiao
Published: May 2021

In this paper, we show that forward premiums are significant predictors of innovations in currency spot rates, and currency forward rates lead to price discovery during normal trading periods. Conversely, currency spot rates lead to price discovery during volatile periods. This finding is linked to investors' overreaction to information, which in turn induces jumps in the currency spot rate; positive jumps weaken the contribution of the forward rate to price discovery and their informational efficiency. We also find that the forward premium puzzle is linked to jump‐driven pricing inefficiencies.
Achieving Enhanced Capacitive Deionization by Interfacial Coupling in PEDOT Reinforced Cobalt Hexacyanoferrate Nanoflake Arrays
Authors: Shi Wenhui , Xue Meiting , Qian Xin , Xu Xilian , Gao Xinlong , Zheng Dong , Liu Wenxian , Wu Fangfang , Gao Congjie , Shen Jiangnan , Cao Xiehong
Published: May 2021

Capacitive deionization (CDI) as a novel energy and cost‐efficient water treatment technology has attracted increasing attention. The recent development of various faradaic electrode materials has greatly enhanced the performance of CDI as compared with traditional carbon electrodes. Prussian blue (PB) has emerged as a promising CDI electrode material due to its open framework for the rapid intercalation/de‐intercalation of sodium ions. However, the desalination efficiency, and durability of previously reported PB‐based materials are still unsatisfactory. Herein, a self‐template strategy is employed to prepare a Poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) reinforced cobalt hexacyanoferrate nanoflakes anchored on carbon cloth (denoted as CoHCF@PEDOT). With the high conductivity and structural stability achieved by coupling with a thin PEDOT layer, the as‐prepared CoHCF@PEDOT electrode exhibits a high capacity of 126.7 mAh g−1 at 125 mA g−1. The fabricated hybrid CDI cell delivers a high desalination capacity of 146.2 mg g−1 at 100 mA g−1, and good cycling stability. This strategy provides an efficient method for the design of high‐performance faradaic electrode materials in CDI applications.
‘Breaking the silence’: Sexual victimisation in an old age psychiatry patient population in Flanders
Authors: Nobels Anne , Keygnaert Ines , Robert Egon , Vandeviver Christophe , Haekens An , Lemey Lieve , Strobbe Marieke , Van Den Noortgate Nele , Lemmens Gilbert M. D.
Published: May 2021

Background

Sexual violence (SV) is linked to mental health problems in adulthood and old age. However, the extent of sexual victimisation in old age psychiatry patients is unknown. Due to insufficient communication skills in both patients and healthcare workers, assessing SV in old age psychiatry patients is challenging.

Aims

To assess lifetime and sexual victimisation in the past 12‐months, correlates and SV disclosure in an old age psychiatry population.

Methods

Between July 2019 and March 2020, 100 patients at three old age psychiatry wards across Flanders participated in a face‐to‐face structured interview receiving inpatient treatment. The participation rate was 58%. We applied the WHO definition of SV, encompassing sexual harassment, sexual abuse with physical contact without penetration, and (attempted) rape.

Results

In 57% of patients (65% F, 42% M) SV occurred during their lifetime and 7% (6% F, 9% M) experienced SV in the past 12‐months. Half of the victims disclosed their SV experience for the first time during the interview. Only two victims had disclosed SV to a mental health care professional before.

Conclusions

Sexual victimisation appears to be common in old age psychiatry patients, yet it remains largely undetected. Although victims did reveal SV during a face‐to‐face interview to a trained interviewer, they do not seem to spontaneously disclose their experiences to mental health care professionals. In order to provide tailored care for older SV victims, professionals urgently need capacity building through training, screening tools and care procedures.
When do latecomer firms undertake international open innovation: Evidence from China
Authors: Fu Xiaolan , Li Yawen , Li Jizhen , Chesbrough Henry
Published: May 2021

Research Summary

While there is a wealth of literature on the benefits of open innovation (OI), little is known about when do latecomer firms undertake international open innovation (IOI) given the related benefits and challenges. This study examines how the characteristics of firms and their surrounding environment affect their engagement with international collaboration. Demand side factors appear to be more significant drivers of IOI in latecomer firms than the pursuit of technology leadership. Market expansion‐oriented innovation strategy, international orientation, previous collaboration experiences, and technology intensity of the industry are found to be associated with a high degree of IOI; firms with stronger R&D capacity tend to be less open to international collaboration. Findings from this research are helpful for managers interested in using IOI to promote their companies' innovation performance, and to managers of MNEs or policy makers who would like to understand the international innovation strategy of Chinese firms.

Managerial Summary

Little is known about when do latecomer firms undertake IOI. This study uses a national survey data set of manufacturing firms in China, examining how the characteristics of firms and their surrounding environment affect their degrees of international openness in innovation. Heckman's two‐step model is used to test the hypotheses, supplemented with robustness checks. Demand side factors appear to be more significant drivers of IOI in latecomer firms than the pursuit of technology leadership. Market expansion‐oriented innovation strategy, international orientation, previous collaboration experiences, and technology intensity of the industry are found to be associated with a high degree of IOI; firms with stronger R&D capacity tend to be less open to international collaboration. Managerial and policy implications are discussed.
Controllable growth of type‐II Dirac semimetal PtTe2 atomic layer on Au substrate for sensitive room temperature terahertz photodetection
Authors: Yang Yang , Zhang Kaixuan , Zhang Libo , Hong Guo , Chen Chao , Jing Hongmei , Lu Jiangbo , Wang Peng , Chen Xiaoshuang , Wang Lin , Xu Hua
Published: May 2021

Platinum telluride (PtTe2), a member of metallic transition metal dichalcogenides, provides a new platform for investigating various properties such as type‐II Dirac fermions, topological superconductivity, and wide‐band photodetection. However, the study of PtTe2 is largely limited to exfoliated flakes, and its direct synthesis remains challenging. Herein, we report the controllable synthesis of highly crystalline 2D PtTe2 crystals with tunable morphology and thickness via chemical vapor deposition (CVD) growth on Au substrate. By adjusting Te amount and substrate temperature, anisotropic and isotropic growth modes of PtTe2 were realized on the solid and molten Au substrates, respectively. The domain size of PtTe2 crystal was achieved up to 30 μm, and its thickness can be tuned from 5.6 to 50 nm via controlling the growth time. Furthermore, a metal–PtTe2–metal structural device was fabricated to validate the wide‐band terahertz (THz) photodetection from 0.04 to 0.3 THz at room temperature. Owing to the high crystallinity of PtTe2 crystal, the photodetector acquires high responsivity (30–250 mA W‐1 from 0.12 to 0.3 THz), fast response rate (rise time: 7 μs, decay time: 8 μs), and high‐quality imaging ability. Our work demonstrates the feasibility for realistic exploitation of high‐performing photodetection system at THz band based on the CVD‐grown 2D Dirac semimetal materials.

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