bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Elucidation of Enhanced Lithium Conductivity in Nanoporous Ionogel Using Solid State NMR
Authors: Weijers Mark , Karanth Pranav , Ganapathy Swapna , Mulder Fokko M.
Published: November 2022

Nanostructured solid composite electrolyte or nano‐SCE, which is composed of an ionic liquid, nanoporous silica, and residuals of immobilized precursor components, shows promising synergistic properties. The ionic conductivity of nano‐SCE is in the range of 2–5 mS cm−1, which exceeds the bulk ionic liquid conductivity at ambient temperature, while maintaining characteristics of a solid electrolyte such as having no leakage issues as the ionic liquid is confined, and lower flammability compared to conventional liquid electrolytes. In this study, the underlying mechanism of enhanced conductivity is investigated by using magic angle spinning NMR and NMR relaxometry analysis. Water, one of the volatile precursor molecules has shown to play a key role in the final conductivity and stability at the solid‐electrolyte interface, as it enhances the temperature range in which the ionic liquid remains mobile. In line with previous studies, water with lowered mobility is found in the silicon matrix. The activation energies of lithium ion transfer probed by NMR relaxometry, however, do not change as function of water content. The increase in bulk mobility of lithium ions under ambient conditions compared to water‐less nano‐SCE is found to be the origin of the altered conductivity of this material.
A T‐Matrix Based Approach to Homogenize Artificial Materials
Authors: Zerulla Benedikt , Venkitakrishnan Ramakrishna , Beutel Dominik , Krstić Marjan , Holzer Christof , Rockstuhl Carsten , Fernandez‐Corbaton Ivan
Published: November 2022

The accurate and efficient computation of the electromagnetic response of objects made from artificial materials is crucial for designing photonic functionalities and interpreting experiments. Advanced fabrication techniques can nowadays produce new materials as 3D lattices of scattering unit cells. Computing the response of objects of arbitrary shape made from such materials is typically computationally prohibitive unless an effective homogeneous medium approximates the discrete material. In here, a homogenization method based on the effective transition (T‐)matrix, is introduced. Such a matrix captures the exact response of the discrete material, is determined by the T‐matrix of the isolated unit cell and the material lattice vectors, and is free of spatial dispersion. The truncation of to dipolar order determines the common bi‐anisotropic constitutive relations. When combined with quantum‐chemical and Maxwell solvers, the method allows one to compute the response of arbitrarily‐shaped volumetric patchworks of structured molecular materials and metamaterials.
Junction‐Enhanced Polarization Sensitivity in Self‐Powered Near‐Infrared Photodetectors Based on Sb2Se3 Microbelt/n‐GaN Heterojunction
Authors: Wan Peng , Jiang Mingming , Wei Yun , Xu Tong , Liu Yang , Xia Sihao , Su Longxing , Shi Daning , Fang Xiaosheng , Kan Caixia
Published: November 2022

Polarization‐sensitive photodetectors (PDs) based on anisotropic materials spark considerable interest for their potential applications in security surveillance, optical switches, and remote sensing. However, high‐thickness or bulk anisotropic materials generally exhibit low polarization sensitivity, hindering their practical applications in polarization photodetection. Herein, a near‐infrared (NIR) PD based on a p‐type Sb2Se3 microbelt (MB)/n‐GaN heterojunction is proposed. The Sb2Se3 MB/GaN PD effectively combines the anisotropy of the Sb2Se3 MB with the heterogeneous integration. The PD presents self‐powered detection properties with a responsivity over 12 mA W−1, a specific detectivity exceeding 5 × 1010 Jones, and a response speed (the rising/decaying times ≈74 ms/75 ms) under NIR illumination. More importantly, the heterojunction‐based PD has a higher anisotropy ratio of 1.37, which is 1.3 times amplified as compared to the vertical photoconductive‐type PDs (the anisotropy ratio of 1.06). The p‐n junction's effect on carrier generation and recombination causes the increased polarization sensitivity of Sb2Se3 MB/GaN PDs, as confirmed by finite element method analysis. This work not only offers a deeper insight into polarization sensitivity regulated by junction or interface but also provides a practical method for developing high‐sensitivity polarization detectors based on high‐thickness or bulk anisotropic materials.
“What I wish I had known before starting my PhD”
Authors: Wiebach Vincent
Published: November 2022

As a rather recent PhD graduate and still an “early career researcher”, the author wondered what to write about that would be interesting for a young scientist. The answer came while overhearing students in the break room stating, “I wish I had known all that before starting my PhD that would have made everything easier!” – An experience many researchers are very familiar with. From simple tricks for laboratory work to choosing the right software or planning the next career steps, this was a reoccurring theme during the career of the author, who will try to give a short personal overview for young researchers, especially in the analytics and/or natural products field. These topics and lists represent a personal opinion and are neither meant to be all‐encompassing nor of course might differ from the experiences of other researchers.
Burkholderia gut symbiont induces insect host fecundity by modulating Kr‐h1 gene expression
Authors: Lee Junbeom , Lee Dae‐Weon
Published: November 2022

Full‐length cDNAs of the Broad‐Complex (BR‐C) from Riptortus pedestris were cloned. Moreover, Kr‐h1 and BR‐C expression levels in apo‐symbiotic and symbiotic host insects were compared to verify whether they are modulated by Burkholderia gut symbionts. Interestingly, Kr‐h1 expression level was significantly increased in symbiotic females. To determine how Kr‐h1 affects fecundity in insects, the biosynthesis of two reproduction‐associated proteins, hexamerin‐α and vitellogenin, was investigated in R. pedestris females. Hexamerin‐α and vitellogenin expression at the transcriptional and translational levels decreased in Kr‐h1‐suppressed symbiotic females, subsequently reduced egg production. These results suggest that Burkholderia gut symbiont modulates Kr‐h1 expression to enhance ovarian development and egg production of R. pedestris by increasing the biosynthesis of the two proteins.
Impaired Efferocytosis by Synovial Macrophages in Patients With Knee Osteoarthritis
Authors: Del Sordo Luigi , Blackler Garth B. , Philpott Holly T. , Riviere Jared , Gunaratnam Lakshman , Heit Bryan , Appleton C. Thomas
Published: November 2022

Objective

Osteoarthritis (OA) exposes all joint tissues to physiologic stresses, increasing the need to clear apoptotic cells from tissues, including the synovium. We undertook this study to assess the burden of apoptotic cells in synovial tissue in patients with late‐stage knee OA and to investigate whether OA impairs the macrophage‐mediated clearance of apoptotic cells via efferocytosis.

Methods

Synovial tissue was collected from individuals with healthy knees and patients with late‐stage knee OA during arthroplasty. Synovial apoptotic cell burden was assessed by immunofluorescence for cleaved caspase 3. Efferocytosis of apoptotic Jurkat cells by CD14+ synovial tissue macrophages and peripheral blood–derived macrophages was quantified using immunofluorescence microscopy. Effects of OA on macrophage‐mediated efferocytosis were modeled by stimulating blood‐derived macrophages with synovial fluid collected from individuals with healthy knees and patients with early‐ or late‐stage knee OA.

Results

Patients with late‐stage knee OA had more apoptotic synovial cells compared to healthy individuals. There was a marked reduction in the fraction of synovial tissue macrophages engaging in efferocytosis and the quantity of material efferocytosed by individual macrophages in OA patients. Blood‐derived macrophages exposed to synovial fluid from patients with knee OA recapitulated the defective efferocytosis, with the greatest effect from patients with early‐stage knee OA and higher disease activity (pain and inflammation).

Conclusion

Apoptotic cells accumulate in the synovium of patients with late‐stage knee OA. Our results suggest that OA impairs critical homeostatic functions of synovial macrophages, leading to accumulation of apoptotic cells.

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The therapeutic effect of N‐acetylcysteine as an add‐on to methadone maintenance therapy medication in outpatients with substance use disorders: A randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled clinical trial
Authors: Padoei Fateme , Mamsharifi Peyman , Hazegh Pooya , Boroumand Homa , Ostadmohammady Fatemeh , Abbaszadeh‐Mashkani Samira , Banafshe Hamid Reza , Matini Amir Hassan , Ghaderi Amir , Dehkohneh Somayeh Ghadami
Published: November 2022

Objective

Patients with substance use disorders (SUD) under methadone maintenance therapy (MMT) are susceptible to a number of complications (psychological and metabolic disorders). Evidence studies have shown the roles of the glutamatergic system in addiction. N‐Acetylcysteine (NAC) enhances extracellular glutamate, and is effective in the treatment of neuropsychiatric disorders. We assessed oral NAC as an add‐on to MMT medication for the treatment of SUD.

Methods

In the current randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled clinical trial, outpatients with SUD under MMT who were 18–60 years old received 2400 mg/day NAC (n = 30) or placebo (n = 30) for 12 weeks. Psychological status and metabolic biomarkers were assessed at baseline and the end of the trial.

Results

Compared with the placebo group, NAC treatment resulted in a significant improvement in depression score (β −2.36; 95% CI, −3.97, −0.76; p = .005), and anxiety score (β −1.82; 95% CI, −3.19, −0.44; p = .01). Furthermore, NAC treatment resulted in a significant elevation in total antioxidant capacity levels (β 72.28 mmol/L; 95% CI, 11.36, 133.19; p = .02), total glutathione (GSH) levels (β 81.84 μmol/L; 95% CI, 15.40, 148.28; p = .01), and a significant reduction in high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein levels (β −0.89 mg/L; 95% CI, −1.50, −0.28; p = .005), and homeostasis model of assessment‐insulin resistance (β −0.33; 95% CI, −0.65, −0.009; p = .04), compared with the placebo group.

Conclusion

In the current study, improvement in depression and anxiety symptoms as well as some metabolic profiles with NAC treatment for 12 weeks in outpatients with SUD under MMT was detected.
Hydroaminomethylation of Natural Allylic and Homoallylic Alcohols: A Ligand‐Controlled Route to New Amines
Authors: de O. Dias Adelson , Santos Alexandra G. , Delolo Fábio G. , Avendaño‐Villarreal Jesus A. , dos Santos Eduardo N. , Gusevskaya Elena V.
Published: November 2022

Hydroaminomethylation (HAM) is a tandem catalytic process that allows accessing amines from olefin scaffolds and is perfectly aligned with green chemistry precepts. In this work, HAM was applied to the natural hydroxyolefins: isoprenol, linalool, nerolidol, and isopulegol. Employing 4‐methylpiperidine, morpholine, and 1,2,3,4‐tetrahydroisoquinoline as counterparts, several new, structurally complex amines were prepared from biorenewable, low‐cost substrates, opening a path to exploit this structure diversity in biological activity. By the appropriate choice of rhodium‐based catalytic systems, as well as the reaction conditions, the necessary fine tuning for each counterpart was achieved. The unpromoted rhodium system leaded mostly to aminoalcohols, while certain phosphorus(III)‐promoted rhodium systems afforded amines containing a tetrahydropyran or a tetrahydrofuran moiety in moderate to high yields.
A review on system and materials for aqueous flexible metal–air batteries
Authors: Jiang Lixue , Luo Xiaoxuan , Wang Da‐Wei
Published: November 2022

The exploration of aqueous flexible metal–air batteries with high energy density and durability has attracted many research efforts with the demand for portable and wearable electronic devices. Aqueous flexible metal–air batteries feature Earth‐abundant materials, environmental friendliness, and operational safety. Each part of one metal–air battery can significantly affect the overall performance. This review starts with the fundamental working principles and the basic battery configurations and then highlights on the common issues and the recent advances in designing high‐performance metal electrodes, solid‐state electrolytes, and air electrodes. Bifunctional oxygen electrocatalysts with high activity and long‐term stability for constructing efficient air electrodes in flexible metal–air batteries are summarized including metal‐free carbon‐based materials and nonprecious Co/Fe‐based materials (alloys, metal oxides, metal sulfites, metal phosphates, metal nitrates, single‐site metal–nitrogen–carbon materials, and composites). Finally, a perspective is provided on the existing challenges and possible future research directions in optimizing the performance and lifetime of the flexible aqueous solid‐state metal–air batteries.
Two‐sided influence of dupilumab on alopecia areata co‐existing with severe atopic dermatitis: A case series and literature review
Authors: Fukuyama Masahiro , Kinoshita‐Ise Misaki , Mizukawa Yoshiko , Ohyama Manabu
Published: November 2022

Objectives

Alopecia areata (AA) often coexists with atopic dermatitis (AD). Recently, several reports suggested that dupilumab, an interleukin 4 receptor α‐antagonist, administration could be a promising medication not only for severe AD but also for AA concomitant with AD (AD‐AA). At the same time, dupilumab has also been reported to exacerbate AA in AD‐AA cases. Thus, the efficacy of dupilumab on AA in AD‐AA cases remains controversial.

Methods

In this study, we retrospectively analyzed four AD‐AA cases treated with dupilumab to evaluate its influence on AD and AA.

Results

All cases had suffered from severe AD since childhood and their average eczema area and severity index (EASI) scores prior to dupilumab administration was 43.2 ± 15.0. Three of four cases had moderate to severe multifocal AA, which successfully recovered in response to dupilumab, accompanied by the decrease in serum thymus and activation‐regulated chemokine (TARC) levels and significant improvement of AD, achieving approximately 90% improvement of EASI scores within 3 months. In contrast, the remaining one case developed rapidly progressive hair loss 8 months after the initiation of dupilumab. In this case, AD was incompletely controlled by dupilumab with the elevation of serum TARC level despite AD improvement. The literature review found 39 dupilumab‐treated AD‐AA cases with elaborate description of clinical course; 24 cases with AA improvement, 15 cases with AA exacerbation, or new onset.

Conclusions

These findings alert physicians that use of dupilumab in expectation of AA improvement in AD‐AA cases can lead to unfortunate consequence in some patients.
Syntheses, Properties, and Aggregation Behavior of Novel Carboxylate‐Based Silicone Surfactants
Authors: Meng Lina , Wang Wenyu , Li A. P. Lei , Feng Shengyu
Published: November 2022

Two new anionic silicone surfactants were synthesized for the first time from dichloromethylvinylsilane or trichlorovinylsilane through hydrolysis‐condensation and then thiol‐ene reactions. Their structures were characterized by FT‐IR, 1H NMR and ESI‐MS. The surface tension (γ), critical aggregate concentration (CAC), surface pressure at CAC (
) and minimum surface area per surfactant molecule (
) were studied by surface tension and electrical conductivity, demonstrating their high surface activity at the gas/liquid interface. Transmission electron microscopy measurements showed that uniform spherical aggregates former in aqueous solution for both surfactants. Moreover, the size of the aggregates was determined to be in the range from 50 to 300 nm by dynamic light scattering.
(2‐Vinyltetrazolyl)furoxans as New Potential Energetic Monomers
Authors: Chaplygin Daniil A. , Larin Alexander A. , Meerov Dmitry B. , Monogarov Konstantin A. , Pronkin Dmitry K. , Pivkina Alla N. , Fershtat Leonid L.
Published: November 2022

A regioselective approach toward the synthesis of a set of new (2‐vinyltetrazolyl)furoxans as potential energetic monomers has been realized. All target energetic materials were thoroughly characterized by spectral and analytical methods. Moreover, crystal structures of two representative heterocyclic systems were studied by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. Prepared high‐energy substances have high combined nitrogen‐oxygen content (63‐71 %), high enthalpies of formation and good detonation parameters (D: 6.7–7.8 km s−1; P: 18–28 GPa). Mechanical sensitivities of the synthesized vinyltetrazoles range these explosives from highly sensitive to completely insensitive. Using calculations of molecular electrostatic potentials (ESP), structural factors influencing the impact sensitivity were revealed. Overall, newly synthesized (2‐vinyltetrazolyl)furoxans are of interest as promising energetic monomers due to the presence of the vinyl moiety and explosophoric heterocyclic combination, while their performance exceeds that of benchmark explosive TNT.
Clinical Relevance of Drug–Drug Interactions With Antibiotics as Listed in a National Medication Formulary: Results From Two Large Population‐Based Case‐Control Studies in Patients Aged 65–100 Years Using Linked English Primary Care and Hospital Data
Authors: van Staa Tjeerd Pieter , Pirmohamed Munir , Sharma Anita , Buchan Iain , Ashcroft Darren M.
Published: November 2022

This study evaluated drug–drug interactions (DDIs) between antibiotic and nonantibiotic drugs listed with warnings of severe outcomes in the British National Formulary based on adverse drug reaction (ADR) detectable with routine International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision coding. Data sources were Clinical Practice Research Databank GOLD and Aurum anonymized electronic health records from English general practices linked to hospital admission records. In propensity‐matched case‐control study, outcomes were ADR or emergency admissions. Analyzed were 121,546 ADR‐related admission cases matched to 638,238 controls. For most antibiotics, adjusted odds ratios (aORs) for ADR‐related hospital admission were large (aOR for trimethoprim 4.13; 95% confidence interval (CI), 3.97–4.30). Of the 51 DDIs evaluated for ADR‐related admissions, 38 DDIs (74.5%) had statistically increased aORs of concomitant exposure compared with nonexposure (mean aOR 3.96; range 1.59–11.42); for the 89 DDIs for emergency hospital admission, the results were 75 (84.3%) and mean aOR 2.40; range 1.43–4.17. Changing reference group to single antibiotic exposure reduced aORs for concomitant exposure by 76.5% and 83.0%, respectively. Medicines listed to cause nephrotoxicity substantially increased risks that were related to number of medicines (aOR was 2.55 (95% CI, 2.46–2.64) for current use of 1 and 10.44 (95% CI, 7.36–14.81) for 3 or more medicines). In conclusion, no evidence of substantial risk was found for multiple DDIs with antibiotics despite warnings of severe outcomes in a national formulary and flagging in electronic health record software. It is proposed that the evidence base for inclusion of DDIs in national formularies be strengthened and made publicly accessible and indiscriminate flagging, which compounds alert fatigue, be reduced.
Ultrasmall CuI Nanoparticles Stabilized on Surface of HPMC: An Efficient Catalyst for Fast and Organic Solvent‐Free Tandem Click Chemistry in Water
Authors: Sharma Sudripet , Jasinski Jacek B. , Braje Wilfried M. , Handa Sachin
Published: November 2022

A simple and environmentally benign technology for synthesizing ultrasmall CuI nanoparticles (NPs) on the surface of the food additive hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) and their application in completely organic solvent‐free tandem alkyne‐azide cycloaddition reactions were reported. The NP catalyst was thoroughly characterized by high‐angle annular dark‐field scanning transmission electron microscopy, high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy, energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis for its morphology, particle size distribution, chemical composition, and oxidation state analyses. The NP catalyst was highly efficient, affording products in 10–45 min. All products were obtained in high purity by simple filtration, obviating organic solvents from the reaction set‐up to product isolation. The methodology is general and scalable as validated by a broad substrate scope.
Optimization of monocyte gating to quantify monocyte subsets for the diagnosis of chronic myelomonocytic leukemia
Authors: Jurado Rebeca , Huguet Maria , Xicoy Blanca , Cabezon Marta , Jimenez‐Ponce Ari , Quintela David , De La Fuente Cristina , Raya Minerva , Vinets Esther , Junca Jordi , Julià‐Torras Joaquim , Zamora Lurdes , Oriol Albert , Navarro Jose‐Tomas , Calvo Xavier , Sorigue Marc
Published: November 2022

Background

The presence of >94% classical monocytes (MO1, CD14++/CD16‐) in peripheral blood (PB) has an excellent performance for the diagnosis of chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (CMML). However, the monocyte gating strategy is not well defined. The objective of the study was to compare monocyte gating strategies and propose an optimal one.

Methods

This is a prospective, single center study assessing monocyte subsets in PB. First, we compared monocyte subsets using 13 monocyte gating strategies in 10 samples. Then we developed our own 10 color tube and tested it on 124 patients (normal white blood cell counts, reactive monocytosis, CMML and a spectrum of other myeloid malignancies). Both conventional and computational (FlowSOM) analyses were used.

Results

Comparing different monocyte gating strategies, small but significant differences in %MO1 and percentually large differences in %MO3 (nonclassical monocytes) were found, suggesting that the monocyte gating strategy can impact monocyte subset quantification. Then, we designed a 10‐color tube for this purpose (CD45/CD33/CD14/CD16/CD64/CD86/CD300/CD2/CD66c/CD56) and applied it to 124 patients. This tube allowed proper monocyte gating even in highly abnormal PB. Computational analysis found a higher %MO1 and lower %MO3 compared to conventional analysis. However, differences between conventional and computational analysis in both MO1 and MO3 were globally consistent and only minimal differences were observed when comparing the ranking of patients according to %MO1 or %MO3 obtained with the conventional versus the computational approach.

Conclusions

The choice of monocyte gating strategy appears relevant for the monocyte subset distribution test. Our 10‐color proposal allowed satisfactory monocyte gating even in highly abnormal PB. Computational analysis seems promising to increase reproducibility in monocyte subset quantification.
Portuguese version of the CDR plus NACC FTLD: Validation studies
Authors: Lima Marisa , Tábuas‐Pereira Miguel , Durães João , Faustino Pedro , Simões Mário R. , Kukull Walter , Knopman David S. , Santana Isabel
Published: November 2022

Introduction

The CDR Dementia Staging Instrument PLUS National Alzheimer’s Coordinating Center (CDR plus NACC FTLD) was developed by adding to the standard CDR two extra domains focused on the main features of frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD): language and behavior/personality. We intended to perform the validation studies for the European‐Portuguese population.

Methods

A total of 105 participants matched for age, education, and disease staging (35 bvFTD, 35 AD, and 35 controls) were included. A translated‐version of the CDR and the two added domains was administered by a neuropsychologist who was blinded to the diagnosis.

Results

The bvFTD group had higher baseline CDR plus NACC FTLD scores compared to the AD and controls. Only the sum‐of‐boxes (SB) score, the behavior/personality, and language domains were able to distinguish between clinical groups. Logistic regression analyses showed that adding the behavior/personality domain with or without language significantly enhanced the discriminating ability.

Discussion

Results show that the CDR plus NACC FTLD is a reliable tool in the diagnostic process of bvFTD patients and has an added value in distinguishing them from patients with AD.
Unexpected adhesive bowel obstruction after endoscopic submucosal dissection of early sigmoid colon cancer
Authors: Seki Kenta , Sakamoto Taku , Makiguchi Mai Ego , Toyoshima Naoya , Takamaru Hiroyuki , Sekiguchi Masau , Yamada Masayoshi , Sekine Shigeki , Kanemitsu Yukihide , Saito Yutaka
Published: November 2022

Various complications of colorectal endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) have been reported, including bleeding, penetration, perforation, and coagulation syndrome. However, the occurrence of bowel obstruction after ESD is rare. We report a case of adhesive bowel obstruction after ESD for a laterally spreading tumor in the sigmoid colon. The 35‐mm tumor was successfully removed by ESD without intraoperative complications. The patient had a fever, lower abdominal pain, and a small amount of bloody stool the day after ESD. Endoscopy revealed minor bleeding from the ESD scar, which was treated by hemostatic clips. Pathological analysis showed adenocarcinoma was exposed to the vertical margin; therefore, the resection was non‐curative. At 39 days after ESD and 36 days after discharge, the patient had abdominal pain and nausea. She was readmitted with a diagnosis of adhesive bowel obstruction. Conservative treatment was ineffective; therefore, she underwent sigmoidectomy combined with partial resection of the small intestine because of small intestinal stenosis caused by inflammation. The pathological examination showed localized peritonitis around the sigmoid colon where ESD was performed. There was more fibrosis along the serous surface of the small intestine than on the sigmoid colon. We concluded that there was a micro‐perforation that could not be detected by endoscopy or physical examination. This case indicates that adhesive bowel obstruction may occur as a complication of ESD.
Removal of natural organic matter fractions by adsorptive asymmetric ceramic membrane functionalized with in situ phytogenic nanoscale zero valent iron: Performance and Fenton cleaning strategy
Authors: Moyo Welldone , Nkambule Thabo T. I.
Published: November 2022

Extant literature has demonstrated that conventional water treatment processes especially in developing countries struggle in completely removing detrimental organic loads. Emerging research delineates nanomaterials such as nanoscale zero valent iron (nZVI) to have excellent performance in organic matter removal from aqueous media. In this work, nZVI particles were prepared from the liquor of commercially available green tea and supported on kaolin (K‐nZVI) and investigated as an adsorbent for natural organic matter (NOM) sequestration from aquatic media. Further, the asymmetric ceramic membrane was prepared by incorporating the developed adsorbent on a concrete support for the removal of NOM. A Fenton cleaning strategy was developed to mitigate fouling. The Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) results revealed the developed adsorbent surface area was greater compared to raw kaolin (27.07 and 11.64 m3 g−1, respectively). The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) imagery of the developed adsorbent showed the particle staking was presented as paper slices of varying sizes, an indication of dispersed particles with characteristic plate‐like fragments. The synthesized membrane exhibited a pHZPC value of 4.79 ± 0.03. This meant at pH above 4.79 ± 0.03, the membrane would be negatively charged, and conversely at pH below the pHZPC value. Membrane fouling due to bovine serum albumin (BSA) deposition showed a 50% flux decline in the first 60 min, coinciding with the rapid adsorption capacity within the same time frame. The optimal cleaning parameters of pH (4.5) and H2O2 (5 mM) gave the best flux recovery rates. This work demonstrated an efficient Fenton cleaning strategy to regenerate the developed membrane.
Do Australian policies enable a primary health care system to identify family adversity and subsequently support these families—A scoping study
Authors: Honisett Suzy , Loftus Hayley , Liu HueiMing , Montgomery Alicia , De Souza Denise , Hall Teresa , Eastwood John , Hiscock Harriet , Goldfeld Sharon
Published: November 2022

Issue Addressed

To determine if Australian policies support a primary health care system to identify family adversity and subsequently support these families.

Methods

Two methodological approaches were used: (i) a scoping review of Australian federal and two states (Victoria and New South Wales) policies related to family adversity (e.g., childhood maltreatment or household dysfunction, such as parental mental illness); (ii) thirteen semi‐structured interviews with Victorian Community Health Service (CHS) staff and government policy makers, recruited via snowball sampling to understand the context of policy making and service implementation. Data collected were subsequently discussed in relation to the Stages Model of policy analysis.

Results

One hundred and eighty‐eight policies referenced family adversity. Of these, 37 policies met all eligibility criteria including a focus on early intervention within primary care and were included in the review. Most policies were developed within health departments (78%) and included a wide range of adversities, with the majority based within maternal and child health and CHS platforms. Most policy development included consultation with stakeholders. Although most policies received some level of funding, few included funding details and only a third included evaluation.

Conclusions

There are many policies related to family adversity in Australia, with most focused within existing primary care platforms. Given these policies, Australia should be well positioned to identify and respond to family adversity.

So What

More work needs to be done to ensure policies are adequately implemented, evaluated and transparently and appropriately funded. The co‐occurrence of adversity should focus policy action; and potentially lead to more effective and efficient outcomes.
The heterogeneity of public preferences for the first healthcare visit: A discrete choice experiment in the context of Vietnam
Authors: Nguyen Hieu Thi Thanh , Vo Trung Quang , Tran Hien Thi Bich , Nguyen Binh Thanh , Nguyen Hiep Thanh , Nguyen Thoai Dang , Anuratpanich Luerat
Published: November 2022

Primary healthcare is critical in addressing the main health problems of communities. In Vietnam, the increasing healthcare demands cause major challenges, especially overcrowding. This study identified public preferences regarding the selection of healthcare facilities for first visit. A discrete choice online survey was generated from five attributes including visit duration, travel time, personal connection with medical staff, doctors' experience, and health insurance. A Dz‐efficient design constructed 36 choice sets, divided into three blocks of 12 choice sets. Each block formed one version of the questionnaire, which was randomly distributed to the participants. Heterogeneity in participant preferences was analysed by a latent class model with socio demographic characteristics and experiences of the last visit. 822 participants valued doctors' experience for both minor and severe symptoms. Preference heterogeneity for minor symptoms was quick service provision, highly experienced doctors, and payment through health insurance for the first (44.18%), second (32.17%), and third classes (23.66%), respectively. Regarding severe symptoms, they favoured all five attributes, quick health service, and reduced travel time for the first, second, and third classes, respectively (heterogeneities of 58.16%, 27.79%, and 14.05%, respectively). Predictions of choice from the worst to optimal healthcare facility scenario were 8.91%–61.91% and 10.16%–69.83% for minor and severe symptoms, respectively. Knowledge regarding public preference heterogeneity supports policymakers increase public acceptance in choosing primary healthcare facilities. Visit duration and doctors' experience should be considered a priority in decision making.
Coefficient of R‐R interval variations under deep breathing load in patients with wild‐type transthyretin amyloid cardiomyopathy: A case‐control study
Authors: Nagayoshi Yasuhiro , Kawano Hiroaki , Nishihara Taiki , Morikawa Kei , Nagano Haruka , Hanatani Shinsuke , Sakaino Naritsugu , Tsujita Kenichi
Published: November 2022

Background and Aims

An autonomic nervous disorder is an important characteristic of cardiac amyloidosis; however, the prevalence of autonomic dysfunction in wild‐type transthyretin amyloidosis (ATTRwt) has not been established. Analysis of the R‐R interval coefficient of variation (CVR‐R) is a noninvasive method to measure parasympathetic activity. We aimed to assess autonomic dysfunction of ATTRwt and determine the utility of CVR‐R for the detection of ATTRwt in other cardiac diseases.

Methods

This is a single‐center, retrospective, case‐control study. Fifty patients with heart failure (HF) were studied. The etiologies of HF were as follows: ATTRwt, n = 10; previous myocardial infarction (MI), n = 20; and left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) due to other disease processes (e.g., aortic stenosis), n = 20. We measured the CVR‐R at rest (CVR‐Rrest), CVR‐R with deep breaths (CVR‐Rbreath), and the change rate (CVR‐Rdiff rate). The relative change formula is as follows: CVR‐Rdiff rate = (CVR‐Rbreath − CVR‐Rrest)/CVR‐Rrest 100 (%).

Results

There was no difference in the CVR‐Rrest levels among the three groups. The CVR‐Rdiff rate levels in the ATTRwt group were significantly lower (ATTRwt: −8.77 [−43.8 to 10.9]; LVH: 67.4 [38.7 to 89.4]; MI: 83.7 [60.4 to 142.9]). Based on the receiver operative characteristic curve analysis to identify ATTRwt in HF, the best cut‐off value for the CVR‐Rdiff rate was 19.7 (area under the curve: 0.848).

Conclusion

Our data suggested autonomic dysfunction in patients with ATTRwt. Measurement of the CVR‐R in HF patients may be a convenient support tool for the detection of ATTRwt.
Evaluation of the prevalence of illness anxiety disorder following the COVID‐19 pandemic in Iran and its related factors: a cross‐sectional study
Authors: Mahdavifar Neda , Mohammadian Maryam , Kalan Farmanfarma Khadijeh , Khosrorad Razieh , Dizavandi Ahmad R. , Sani Fatemeh V. , Salehiniya Hamid
Published: November 2022

Background and Aims

COVID‐19 pandemic has generated a rise in psychological distress, such as illness anxiety disorder, apart from its negative physical effects. This study intends to the evaluation of illness anxiety disorder rate following the prevalence of COVID‐19 in Iran and its associated factors.

Methods

In this study, 634 people were studied. The data collection method was performed via the virtual networks using a questionnaire, with the sampling method being convenient and nonprobable with the method of snowball. Evans illness anxiety disorder questionnaire was utilized in this investigation. The logistic regression model and the χ2 were used to evaluate the data.

Results

The prevalence of illness anxiety disorder was 12.1%. The chance to have an illness anxiety disorder in the people whose relatives had a history of COVID‐19 was 5.32 times, and in those who had a relative with a history of COVID‐19 had higher (odds ratio = 1.27). But, this connection in people who worked or studied in nonmedical fields, is several times more than those who are busy in the medical fields. In individuals of 30 years and older, the chance of patients in single people compared to married people was 5.20 times higher, but under the age of 30 years, the chance of illness anxiety disorder in single people was 0.91.

Conclusion

COVID‐19 pandemic, also to the physical effects, may have psychological implications for people. Therefore, reducing the individual and social activities in terms of this disease, along with measures related to physical problems, diagnosis, timely treatment and proper psychological consequences, including illness anxiety disorder can be very fruitful.
KINETIC STUDY OF THE PHOTOLYSIS OF NOVEL CARVONE HYDRA20NE DERIVATIVES. ANALYTICAL APPLICATION TO THE DETERMINATION OF CARVONE*1
Authors: Ndiaye S.A. , Aaron J.J.
Published: November 2022

The photolysis of carvone dimethylhydrazone (CDMH) carvone‐ Phenylhydrazone (CPH), and carvone hydrazono‐orthobenzoic acid (CHBA), was studied at room‐temperature (293K) in several solvents (cyclohexane, dioxane, formamide, acetonitrile, ethanol, propanol). The photolysis overall first‐order rate constants (k1) and quantum yields (φp) were found to depend Markedly of the structure of the carvone hydrazone derivative and of the solvent, k1 values varied in the range 1.3 × 10‐3, 2.4 × 10‐3 min‐1 for CDMH ‐ 4.0 × 10‐2 ‐ 2 × 10‐1 min‐1 for CPH, and 8 × 10‐3 ‐ 4.6 × 10‐2 min‐1 for CHBA, and φp values between 0.0009 and 0.0012 for CDMH, 0.07 and 0.19 for CPH, and 0.004 and 0.0085 for CHBA, according to the solvent. The structure of the photoproducts was investigated by mass spectrometry and fluorescence spectroscopy. Mechanisms are proposed for the photolysis of these carvone hydrazone derivatives. A photochemical‐fluorimetric method is presented for the analysis of carvone, following derivatization. Limits of detection of carvone are in the ng range.
Real‐world impact of a subsidy decision of sofosbuvir–velpatasvir for treatment of chronic hepatitis C on clinical practice and patient outcomes
Authors: Tan Chee‐Kiat , Luo Xue‐Shi , Ong Benjamin Shao‐Kiat , Lin Liang , Ng Kwong‐Hoe
Published: November 2022

Background and Aim

Sofosbuvir–velpatasvir was recommended for subsidy to treat chronic hepatitis C in Singapore in 2018. We measured the impact of the subsidy decision on clinical practice and patient outcomes. Specifically, we looked at pre‐ and post‐subsidy changes in the utilization and prescribing pattern of chronic hepatitis C treatment and the real‐world clinical effectiveness.

Method

Utilization trends and prescribing patterns were assessed using aggregated drug utilization data from public hospitals' dispensing systems and clinical data from the national electronic health record database, respectively. An audit was conducted to evaluate sustained virological response rate 12 weeks post treatment (SVR12).

Results

Use of sofosbuvir–velpatasvir increased sharply since its subsidy listing and dropped subsequently, whereas the utilization of comparator drugs remained low. Prescribing rate of sofosbuvir–velpatasvir increased from 13.7% in the pre‐subsidy period to 90.2% in the post‐subsidy period; 39.1% of patients previously on pegylated interferon and ribavirin switched to sofosbuvir–velpatasvir following its subsidy listing. In the audit, 365 out of 375 patients (97.3% [95% confidence interval: 95.1–98.6%]) achieved SVR12.

Conclusion

The subsidy decision led to increased accessibility to patients and intended changes in clinical practice. Sofosbuvir–velpatasvir was also clinically effective in the real world. These findings augur well for the continued eradication of chronic hepatitis C infection in Singapore.
Biomolecule‐releasing bioadhesive for glenoid labrum repair through induced host progenitor cell responses
Authors: Co Cynthia M. , Nguyen Tam , Vaish Bhavya , Izuagbe Samira , Borrelli Joseph , Tang Liping
Published: November 2022

Glenoid labral tears occur with repetitive dislocation events and are common injuries observed in shoulder arthroscopic procedures. Although surgery can restore shoulder anatomy, repair is associated with poor clinical outcomes, which may be attributed to the poor regenerative capability of glenoid labral fibrocartilage. Thus, this study was designed to assess whether in situ tissue regeneration via biomolecule‐stimulated recruitment of progenitor cells is a viable approach for the regeneration of labral tears. We developed a click chemistry‐based bioadhesive to improve labral repair and reduce local inflammatory responses due to trauma. Additionally, we previously identified the presence of progenitor cells in the human labrum, which can be recruited by platelet‐derived growth factor (PDGF). Thus, we hypothesized that PDGF‐releasing adhesives could induce the regenerative responses of progenitor cells at the injury site to improve labral healing. In a rat glenoid labral tear model, we evaluated the effect of PDGF‐releasing adhesives on promoting progenitor cells to participate in labral tear healing. After 3 and 6 weeks, the labrum was histologically analyzed for inflammatory responses, progenitor cell recruitment, proliferation, and extracellular matrix (ECM) production (collagen and glycosaminoglycan). Our results showed that adhesives alone considerably reduced local inflammatory responses and labral tissue dissolution. PDGF‐releasing adhesives significantly increased progenitor cell recruitment, proliferation, and ECM production. These results demonstrate that by accelerating autologous progenitor cell responses, PDGF‐releasing adhesives represent a novel clinically relevant strategy to improve the healing of glenoid labral tears.
Erdgas: Mehr als nur Energieträger
Authors: Kuschmitz Paul
Published: November 2022

Durch den Angriffskrieg Russlands auf die Ukraine ist Erdgas in Deutschland knapp geworden. Mehr als die Hälfte der Gasimporte kam zuvor aus Russland. Hierzulande wird es nicht nur gebraucht, um Privathaushalte zu heizen, sondern ist auch ein Baustein der chemischen Industrie.
Attitudes and perceptions of healthcare professionals related to family participation in surgical cancer care—A mixed method study
Authors: Trulsson Charlotte , Ahlgren Weimar , Fomichov Victoria , Ågren Susanna , Sandström Per , Björnsson Bergthor , Wennerholm Carina , Drott Jenny
Published: November 2022

Aim

This study investigated healthcare professionals' attitudes and perceptions towards the family's participation in surgical cancer care.

Design

A prospective mixed method study.

Methods

The study was conducted at three hospitals in Sweden with registered nurses, assistant nurses and surgeons. Data included 43 completed Families Importance in Nursing Care (FINC‐NA) questionnaires answered by registered nurses and qualitative data from 14 interviews with surgeons and assistant nurses. Data analysis was performed according to the Creswell convergent parallel mixed method.

Results

Both quantitative and qualitative data demonstrated that the family was an important resource in nursing care, was highly valued as a conversational partner and had resources that should be considered. Each family should be supported in determining their role and as implements for maintaining a functioning family constellation and increasing their participation.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.
The mediating role of E‐learning motivation on the relationship between technology access and satisfaction with E‐learning
Authors: Innab Adnan , Alqahtani Naji
Published: November 2022

Aim

To examine the e‐learning motivation mediating role on the relationship between technology access and satisfaction with e‐learning among nursing students during COVID‐19 pandemic.

Design

This is a cross‐sectional, descriptive design.

Methods

A convenience sample of students (N = 139) from public and private nursing colleges was recruited in this study. Data were collected using students' satisfaction, motivation and access to technology tools.

Results

Nursing students in the study were somewhat satisfied with e‐learning, had access to the required technology for e‐learning and had moderate levels of e‐learning motivation. The multiple regression analysis showed that technology access and e‐learning motivation influenced and explained 30.4% of the variance in satisfaction with e‐learning. Previous experience with e‐learning was associated with satisfaction with e‐learning. A series of regression analyses revealed that e‐learning motivation partially mediated the relationship between technology access and satisfaction with e‐learning.
Factors influencing employment rates and states after liver transplantation in China: A multi‐centre cross‐sectional study
Authors: Zhang Dan , Wang Jing , Tao Zijun , Shi Ying , Wang Huili , Chang Tiantian , Jiang Xiaoyu , Li Xiaofei
Published: November 2022

Aim

The aim of this study was to assess employment rates and states and the factors influencing liver transplant recipients in China.

Design

A cross‐sectional study.

Methods

A total of 212 liver transplant recipients were included in this study. Questionnaires for general situation information and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, Perceived Social Support Scale and Chronic Disease Self‐Efficacy Scale were used.

Results

Among the liver transplantation, 212 recipients were included in the study, 125 (59%) were employed after liver transplantation compared with 148 (69.8%) who were employed before liver transplantation. Among the 125 recipients that returned to work, only 38.2% thought their employment states were good before liver transplantation, while 81.6% thought that their employment states were good after liver transplantation. Gender, age and employment status before transplantation, aetiology of liver disease, number of physical activities, per capita monthly income, comorbidity and depression were significantly associated with return to work. Self‐efficacy, social support, liver function and nature of work were significantly associated with employment state.
A weak Galerkin finite element method for Allen–Cahn equation with a nonuniform two‐step backward differentiation formula scheme
Authors: Wang Xiuping , Gao Fuzheng , Cui Jintao , Sun Zhengjia
Published: November 2022

In this article, we consider a weak Galerkin finite element method and a nonuniform two‐step backward differentiation formula scheme for solving the Allen–Cahn equation. A discrete weak gradient operator on discontinuous piecewise polynomials is used in the numerical scheme. It is well‐known that the Allen–Cahn equations have a nonlinear stability property, that is, the free‐energy functional decreases with respect to time. A corresponding energy stability analysis of the discretized system is developed. Optimal order of L2‐norm error estimates are derived. Numerical experiments are preformed to support the theoretical results.
The impact of subliminal stimuli on interpersonal trust and team trust
Authors: Cai Jie , Tang Xiangyun , Zhang Jingyu , Sun Xianghong
Published: November 2022

Although numerous studies related to trust have emerged in recent decades, few studies have explored the impact of subliminal stimuli on trust from an unconscious perspective. This study investigated (a) whether subliminal stimuli could influence interpersonal trust and team trust and (b) whether subjective trust played a mediating role between subliminal stimuli and behavioral trust. It contained two experiments. In Experiment 1, a total of 72 participants took part in a single factor design and completed five tasks. In Experiment 2, a total of 98 participants participated in a single factor design and completed five tasks. Results indicated that subliminal stimuli had a significant impact on interpersonal trust and team trust. Subjective trust played a mediating role between subliminal stimuli and behavioral trust. The results suggest that subliminal priming techniques can influence interpersonal trust and team trust. These techniques first influence subjective trust and then further influence behavioral trust.