bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Polarisation-dependent single-pulse ultrafast optical switching of an elementary ferromagnet
Authors: Hamamera Hanan , Guimarães Filipe Souza Mendes , dos Santos Dias Manuel , Lounis Samir
Published: January 2022

The ultimate control of magnetic states of matter at femtosecond (or even faster) timescales defines one of the most pursued paradigm shifts for future information technology. In this context, ultrafast laser pulses developed into extremely valuable stimuli for the all-optical magnetization reversal in ferrimagnetic and ferromagnetic alloys and multilayers, while this remains elusive in elementary ferromagnets. Here we demonstrate that a single laser pulse with sub-picosecond duration can lead to the reversal of the magnetization of bulk nickel, in tandem with the expected demagnetization. As revealed by realistic time-dependent electronic structure simulations, the central mechanism involves ultrafast light-induced torques that act on the magnetization. They are only effective if the laser pulse is circularly polarized on a plane that contains the initial orientation of the magnetization. We map the laser pulse parameter space enabling the magnetization switching and unveil rich intra-atomic orbital-dependent magnetization dynamics featuring transient inter-orbital non-collinear states. Our findings open further perspectives for the efficient implementation of optically-based spintronic devices.
The biopolymer-assisted synthesis of assembled g-C3N4 open frameworks with electron delocalization channels for prompt H2 production
Authors: Liu Yao , Wang Guangzhao , Li Yunfei , Du Peng , Lan Xuefang , Park Sung Heum , Shi Jinsheng , Ma Yongchao
Published: January 2022

Three-dimensional (3D) photocatalysts can overcome the serious aggregation exhibited by two-dimensional (2D) nanosheets caused by unavoidable van der Waals forces.
Enhancing the peroxidase-like activity of MIL-88B by ligand exchange with polydopamine
Authors: Hu Changzhi , Xiong Yuhao , Liang Ling , Zuo Weiyuan , Ye Fanggui , Zhao Shulin
Published: January 2022

A simple ligand exchange method with polydopamine was used to synthesize PDA-MIL-88B with enhanced peroxidase-like activity.
Inhibitory activity of flavonoids against human sucrase-isomaltase (α-glucosidase) activity in a Caco-2/TC7 cellular model
Authors: Proença Carina , Rufino Ana T. , Ferreira de Oliveira José Miguel P. , Freitas Marisa , Fernandes Pedro A. , Silva Artur M. S. , Fernandes Eduarda
Published: January 2022

Flavonoids may be effective inhibitors of SI in Caco-2/TC7 cells when using natural substrates maltose and sucrose. The chemical features that favor the SI inhibition by flavonoids are the presence of –OH groups at C-3, C-3′, C-4′, C-7 and C-8.
Higher serum vitamin A is associated with a worsened progression of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in adults: a prospective study
Authors: Xiao Mian-li , Zhong Hai-li , Lin Hong-rou , Liu Chun-ying , Yan Yan , Ke Yue-bin , Chen Yu-ming
Published: January 2022

Group difference. Individuals who showed an improvement in the severity of NAFLD had a lower concentration of serum vitamin A than individuals with a stable or progressed severity of NAFLD between two visits in three years.
Hypoglycemic effects of Rhodiola crenulata (HK. f. et. Thoms) H. Ohba in vitro and in vivo and its ingredient identification by UPLC-triple-TOF/MS
Authors: Yue Huilan , Wang Luya , Jiang Sirong , Banma Cailang , Jia Wenjing , Tao Yanduo , Zhao Xiaohui
Published: January 2022

The anti-hyperglycaemic effects of Rhodiola crenulata (HK. f. et. Thoms) H. Ohba (RC) was firstly demonstrated in vivo and in vitro, and 40 ingredients in RC were detected and identified by UPLC-Triple-TOF-MS.
Tilapia skin peptides restore cyclophosphamide-induced premature ovarian failure via inhibiting oxidative stress and apoptosis in mice
Authors: Zhao Yun-Tao , Yin Haowen , Hu Chuanyin , Zeng Jian , Shi Xinyi , Chen Shaohong , Zhang Kun , Zheng Wenjing , Wu Wenjin , Liu Shucheng
Published: January 2022

This study aimed to investigate the effects of Tilapia skin peptides on cyclophosphamide-induced premature ovarian failure in mice and to further elucidate the potential mechanisms.
Recent advances in chemical recycling of polyethylene terephthalate waste into value added products for sustainable coating solutions – hopevs. hype
Authors: Ghosal Krishanu , Nayak Chinmaya
Published: January 2022

In this article, we have reviewed how polyethylene terephthalate can be recycled into value-added products so that it can be used as a raw material for coating applications.
Nanoscale interface engineering for solid oxide fuel cells using atomic layer deposition
Authors: Seo Jongsu , Kim Seunghyun , Jeon SungHyun , Kim Suyeon , Kim Jeong Hwan , Jung WooChul
Published: January 2022

This minireview summarizes the latest progress on the interface engineering for solid oxide fuel cells using atomic layer deposition and provides a perspective on directions for further development.
Comment on “Ultralow magnetostrictive flexible ferromagnetic nanowires” by G. Muscas, P. E. Jönsson, I. G. Serrano, Ö. Vallin, and M. V. Kamalakar, Nanoscale, 2021, 13, 6043–6052
Authors: Faurie D. , Challab N. , Haboussi M. , Zighem F.
Published: January 2022

A strain field (εxx) in Ti/Co/Al nanowires on the PEN substrate subjected to uniaxial stress. The applied stress perpendicular to the nanowire length leads to very low strain in nanowires (about 30 times lower than the macroscopic strain).
Transient reshaping of intraband transitions by hot electrons
Authors: Diroll Benjamin T. , Banerjee Tathagata
Published: January 2022

Hot electrons transiently redshift intraband transitions of colloidal quantum wells when electrons are excited above the band edge.
Process of metal–organic framework (MOF)/covalent–organic framework (COF) hybrids-based derivatives and their applications on energy transfer and storage
Authors: Cui Bingbing , Fu Guodong
Published: January 2022

The fossil-fuel shortage and severe environmental issues have posed ever-increasing demands on clean and renewable energy sources, for which the exploration of electrocatalysts has been a big challenge toward energy transfer and storage.
Copper and palladium bimetallic sub-nanoparticles were stabilized on modified polyaniline materials as an efficient catalyst to promote C–C coupling reactions in aqueous solution
Authors: Wang Gang , Hao Pengcheng , Chang Yajuan , Zhang Qiuping , Liu Wanyi , Duan Bin , Zhan Haijuan , Bi Shuxian
Published: January 2022

Modified polyaniline self-stabilizing Cu/Pd bimetallic sub-nanocluster composite materials (Cu/Pd@Mod-PANI-3OH) are obtained through the three steps of oxidative polymerization, structural modification, and metal self-trapping.
Rh(iii)-catalyzed C–H annulation of sulfoxonium ylides with iodonium ylides towards isocoumarins
Authors: Yin Chuanliu , Li Lianghao , Yu Chuanming
Published: January 2022

The direct synthesis of isocoumarin skeletons has been realized through the Rh(iii)-catalyzed [3 + 3] annulation of sulfoxonium ylides and iodonium ylides under mild conditions.
Pd-Catalyzed desulfitative arylation of olefins by N-methoxysulfonamide
Authors: Ojha Subhadra , Panda Niranjan
Published: January 2022

Pd-Catalyzed desulfitative Mizoroki–Heck-type coupling reaction of N-methoxysulfonamides and alkenes.
Cu-Catalyzed alkylation–cyanation type difunctionalization of styrenes with aliphatic aldehydes and TMSCN via decarbonylation
Authors: Zhou Yu-Ling , Chen Jun-Jia , Cheng Jing , Yang Luo
Published: January 2022

Abundant linear, α-mono- and di-substituted aliphatic aldehydes are decarbonylated into primary, secondary and tertiary alkyl radicals for the alkylation–cyanation of styrene derivatives to provide various carbon-chain elongated nitriles.
Chiral tetracoordinate organoboranes based on double B←N bridged bipyridine with circularly polarized luminescence
Authors: Yang Yue , Guo Jiaxiang , Ye Kaiqi , Dou Chuandong
Published: January 2022

Two chiral tetracoordinate organoboranes based on double B←N bridged bipyridine were synthesized via an Et2AlCl-mediated reaction, and they possess excellent circularly polarized luminescence performance.
Pesticide detection combining the Wasserstein generative adversarial network and the residual neural network based on terahertz spectroscopy
Authors: Yang Ruizhao , Li Yun , Qin Binyi , Zhao Di , Gan Yongjin , Zheng Jincun
Published: January 2022

We proposed a WGAN-ResNet method, which combines two deep learning networks, the Wasserstein generative adversarial network (WGAN) and residual neural network (ResNet), to detect carbendazim based on terahertz spectroscopy.
Structure-based discovery and bio-evaluation of a cyclopenta[4,5]thieno[2,3-d]pyrimidin-4-one as a phosphodiesterase 10A inhibitor
Authors: Al-Nema Mayasah , Gaurav Anand , Lee Vannajan Sanghiran , Gunasekaran Baskaran , Lee Ming Tatt , Okechukwu Patrick , Nimmanpipug Piyarat
Published: January 2022

Phosphodiesterase10A (PDE10A) is a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of several neurodegenerative disorders.
Food seasoning-derived gel polymer electrolyte and pulse-plasma exfoliated graphene nanosheet electrodes for symmetrical solid-state supercapacitors
Authors: Le Phuoc Anh , Le Van Qui , Nguyen Nghia Trong , Phung Viet Bac Thi
Published: January 2022

The symmetrical solid-state supercapacitors using graphene nanosheet electrodes and table salt-derived green gel polymer electrolyte which provide a stable energy storage device, and good electrochemical capability are introduced.
Effects of zinc–aluminium injection on corrosion behaviour and semiconductor properties of carbon steel in the PHT system of PHWR
Authors: Jiao Yang , Zhang Shenghan , Tan Yu
Published: January 2022

Zn2+ and Zn2+ + Al3+ injection can improve corrosion resistance of carbon steel significantly in PHT system of PHWR.
Generation of bright monomeric red fluorescent proteins via computational design of enhanced chromophore packing
Authors: Legault Sandrine , Fraser-Halberg Derek P. , McAnelly Ralph L. , Eason Matthew G. , Thompson Michael C. , Chica Roberto A.
Published: January 2022

We used computational design to increase quantum yield in a fluorescent protein by optimizing chromophore packing to reduce non-radiative decay, resulting in an >10-fold increase in quantum yield that was further improved by directed evolution.
Universal encoding of next generation DNA-encoded chemical libraries
Authors: Plais Louise , Lessing Alice , Keller Michelle , Martinelli Adriano , Oehler Sebastian , Bassi Gabriele , Neri Dario , Scheuermann Jörg
Published: January 2022

Large Encoding Design (LED) allows for the construction of DNA-encoded chemical libraries (DELs) of unprecedented sizes and designs. LED was validated and compared with previous encoding systems for amplifiability and performance in test selections.
Identification of two-dimensional copper signatures in human blood for bladder cancer with machine learning
Authors: Wang Weichao , Liu Xian , Zhang Changwen , Sheng Fei , Song Shanjun , Li Penghui , Dai Shaoqing , Wang Bin , Lu Dawei , Zhang Luyao , Yang Xuezhi , Zhang Zhihong , Liu Sijin , Zhang Aiqian , Liu Qian , Jiang Guibin
Published: January 2022

The blood Cu concentration and isotopic composition enable new insights into Cu imbalance and diagnosis of bladder cancer with machine learning.
Emerging biosensing and transducing techniques for potential applications in point-of-care diagnostics
Authors: Qin Junjie , Wang Wei , Gao Liqian , Yao Shao Q.
Published: January 2022

POC diagnostics are driven by the rapid advances in CRISPR, electrochemical and optical biosensors. Related emerging strategies are described and discussed from the perspective of facilitating the practical application of biosensors in POC testing.
Impact of the dopant-induced ensemble structure of hetero-double atom catalysts in electrochemical NH3 production
Authors: Kim Seung-hoon , Song Ho Chang , Yoo Sung Jong , Han Jonghee , Lee Kwan-Young , Ham Hyung Chul
Published: January 2022

Compared to Ru single atom catalyst, hetero-RuM (M = Fe, Os, and Ir) double atom catalysts showed improved N2RR activity with the help of dxz and dxy bonding orbital, caused by strain, dopant and configurational effects.
A graphdiyne oxide composite membrane for active electrolyte enhanced supercapacitors with super long self-discharge time
Authors: Liang Na , Wu Xueyan , Lv Yan , Guo Jixi , Zhang Xiuli , Zhu Yingfu , Liu Huibiao , Jia Dianzeng
Published: January 2022

GDYO/PVA self-assembled composite membrane as a separator effectively inhibited the self-discharge of AEESCs. The ultra-long self-discharge time is 37 160 s, and the capacitance retention rate is 95.1% after 8000 cycles.
Alkylated, naphthalimide-containing ionic compounds with rich thermotropic behaviour and nonlinear optical response
Authors: Zhang Geping , Lu Dandan , Yin Keyang , Godbert Nicolas , Dong Renhao , Li Hongguang , Hao Jingcheng
Published: January 2022

Alkylated, naphthalimide-containing ionic compounds show rich phase transitions governed by the type (branched or linear) and length of the aliphatic chains. In film state, these compounds exhibit both third- and second-order nonlinear optical responses.
Aggregation-induced emission active thermally-activated delayed fluorescence materials possessing N-heterocycle and sulfonyl groups
Authors: Matsui Yasunori , Yokoyama Yudai , Ogaki Takuya , Ishiharaguchi Kenta , Niwa Akitsugu , Ohta Eisuke , Saigo Masaki , Miyata Kiyoshi , Onda Ken , Naito Hiroyoshi , Ikeda Hiroshi
Published: January 2022

Novel thermally-activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) materials 2Cz2SB and 2Mi2SB, possessing N-heterocycle and arylsulfonyl groups, were synthesized and their photophysical properties in solution and the solid state were characterized.
Persistent room temperature phosphorescence films based on star-shaped organic emitters
Authors: Shu Haiyang , Chen Liang , Wu Xiaofu , Wang Tong , Wang Shuai , Tong Hui , Wang Lixiang
Published: January 2022

Metal-free star-shaped organic luminogens exhibit persistent phosphorescence in neat films with phosphorescence lifetime up to 166 ms under ambient conditions, which can be used in information encryption and white electroluminescent devices.
Semantic and context features integration for robust object tracking
Authors: Yao Jinzhen , Zhang Jianlin , Wang Zhixing , Shao Linsong
Published: January 2022

Siamese network‐based object tracking learns features of a target object marked in the first frame and that of the object in subsequent frames simultaneously and then measures similarity between two features to recognize and locate the object. Owing to their efficiency and high accuracy, Siamese networks have attracted much attention recently. However, tracking accuracy decreases significantly when there are scale changes, occlusion, and pose variations due to the way that Siamese networks estimate feature similarity. To address this issue, the authors propose a tracking algorithm, named Semantic and context features integration for robust object tracking that integrates local and global features of the object. Local features provide context information for tracking parts of the object, while global features contain semantic information for tracking the object. The authors meticulously design local and global classification and regression heads and integrate them into one uniform framework to achieve integration tracking. This method effectively alleviates low accuracy in complex scenes such as scale changes, deformation, and occlusion. Numerous experiments demonstrate that this method achieves state‐of‐art (SOTA) performance with 45 FPS on a single RTX2060 Super GPU on public tracking datasets, including VOT2016, VOT2019, OTB100, GOT‐10k, and LaSOT, and its effectiveness and efficiency is confirmed.
An optimal phase control method for the suppression of phase sequence exchange impulse current and voltage
Authors: Li Yifan , Sun Peng , Li Hui , Huang Shaofeng , Wu Haifeng
Published: January 2022

Phase sequence exchange (PSE) is an emerging emergency control method for power systems. However, PSE will generate impulse current and voltage. In this research, to suppress the impulse of PSE, a phase control method for zero‐current opening and equal‐voltage closing is adopted, and verified via both physics and experiments. First, an equivalent circuit is established, and the differential equations are solved to validate that this phase control method is the optimal method for the suppression of the impulse current and voltage in PSE. Then, the action sequence scheme and calculation method of the phase control method are advanced. Finally, based on the real‐time digital simulation system (RTDS), a PSE prototype was used to carry out impact experiments. The results verify that the performance of the optimal method is the best compared to those of other control methods, the requirement for the sampling frequency is low, and there is almost no additional cost. In the two experiments, the first peak of the impulse current was found to be reduced by 47.49% and 33.28% on average, respectively, and the first peak of the impulse voltage was found to be reduced by 14.89% and 44.10% on average, respectively.
Overview of lattice calculations of the x-dependence of PDFs, GPDs and TMDs
Authors: Cichy Krzysztof
Published: January 2022

For a long time, lattice QCD was unable to address the x-dependence of partonic distributions, direct access to which is impossible in Euclidean spacetime. Recent years have brought a breakthrough for such calculations when it was realized that partonic light-cone correlations can be accessed through spatial correlations computable on the lattice. Appropriately devised observables can be factorized into physical PDFs via a perturbative procedure called matching, analogous to the standard factorization of experimental cross sections. In this short review, aimed at a broader high-energy and nuclear physics community, we discuss the recent highlights of this research program. Key concepts are outlined, followed by a case study illustrating the typical stage of current lattice extractions and by a brief review of the most recent explorations. We finalize with a number of messages for the prospects of lattice determinations of partonic structure.
QCD at high temperature and density: selected highlights
Authors: Skullerud Jon-Ivar
Published: January 2022

I review some of the recent progress in QCD at high temperature and density, with a focus on the nature of the high-temperature transition; cold and dense matter; and hadron properties and transport coefficients at high temperature.
Instanton-induced effects in interquark forces, light-front wave functions and formfactors
Authors: Shuryak Edward
Published: January 2022

Exclusive processes are traditionally described by perturbative hard blocks and “distribution amplitudes" (DAs), matrix elements of operators of various chiral structure and twist. One paper (with I.Zahed) calculate instanton contribution to hard blocks, which is found comparable to perturbative one in few-GeV2 Q2 region of interest. Another paper aims at comprehensive wave functions of mesons, baryons and pentaquarks. The last ones are also included as 5-quark component of the baryons. The calculation, using ’t Hooft operator, gives x-dependence and magnitude of the antiquark PDF. It explains long standing issue of strong flavor asymmetry of antiquark sea. The third paper (also with I.Zahed) is semi-review on the instanton-sphaleron processes in QCD and electroweak theories, with emphasis on their possible experimental observation via double diffractive events at LHC and RHIC. Insert your english abstract here.
Bottomonium observables in an open quantum system using the quantum trajectories method
Authors: Vander Griend Peter
Published: January 2022

We solve the Lindblad equation describing the Brownian motion of a Coulombic heavy quark-antiquark pair in a strongly coupled quark gluon plasma using the Monte Carlo wave function method. The Lindblad equation has been derived in the framework of pNRQCD and fully accounts for the quantum and non-Abelian nature of the system. The hydrodynamics of the plasma is realistically implemented through a 3+1D dissipative hydrodynamics code. We compute the bottomonium nuclear modification factor and elliptic flow and compare with the most recent LHC data. The computation does not rely on any free parameter, as it depends on two transport coefficients that have been evaluated independently in lattice QCD. Our final results, which include late-time feed down of excited states, agree well with the available data from LHC 5.02 TeV PbPb collisions.
CP violation in charm
Authors:   Jakub Ryżka on behalf of the LHCb Collaboration
Published: January 2022

The existence of CP violation in the decays of strange and beauty mesons is very well established experimentally. On the contrary, CP violation in the decays of charmed particles has been elusive for a long time and has been observed for the first time in 2019 by the LHCb experiment. Since then several studies have been performed in the charm sector. During the LHC Run 1 and Run 2, the LHCb collaboration has collected large samples containing charm hadron decays, on a scale never seen before. Collected data enabled physicists to obtain several new results, most of which surpassed previous results and became new world’s best measurements. Presently the LHCb spectrometer is being upgraded to enhance readout system, improve subdetector components and increase integrated luminosity to 50 fb−1 by the end of Run 4.
Present status of radiative and rare kaon decays
Authors: Catà Oscar
Published: January 2022

I will review recent developments in rare and radiative kaon decays from the theory side, with emphasis on those modes that are actively analyzed by the experimental collaborations.
Sp(4) gauge theories and beyond the standard model physics
Authors: Lucini Biagio , Bennett Ed , Holligan Jack , Hong Deog Ki , Hsiao Ho , Lee Jong-Wan , Lin C.-J. David , Mesiti Michele , Piai Maurizio , Vadacchino Davide
Published: January 2022

We review numerical results for models with gauge group Sp(2N), discussing the glueball spectrum in the large-N limit, the quenched meson spectrum of Sp(4) with Dirac fermions in the fundamental and in the antisymmetric representation and the Sp(4) gauge model with two dynamical Dirac flavours. We also present preliminary results for the meson spectrum in the Sp(4) gauge theory with two fundamental and three antisymmetric Dirac flavours. The main motivation of our programme is to test whether this latter model is viable as a realisation of Higgs compositeness via the pseudo Nambu Goldstone mechanism and at the same time can provide partial top compositeness. In this respect, we report and briefly discuss preliminary results for the mass of the composite baryon made with two fundamental and one antisymmetric fermion (chimera baryon), whose physical properties are highly constrained if partial top compositeness is at work. Our investigation shows that a fully non-perturbative study of Higgs compositeness and partial top compositeness in Sp(4) is within reach with our current lattice methodology.
A machine learning pipeline for autonomous numerical analytic continuation of Dyson-Schwinger equations
Authors: Windisch Andreas , Gallien Thomas , Schwarzlmüller Christopher
Published: January 2022

Dyson-Schwinger equations (DSEs) are a non-perturbative way to express n-point functions in quantum field theory. Working in Euclidean space and in Landau gauge, for example, one can study the quark propagator Dyson-Schwinger equation in the real and complex domain, given that a suitable and tractable truncation has been found. When aiming for solving these equations in the complex domain, that is, for complex external momenta, one has to deform the integration contour of the radial component in the complex plane of the loop momentum expressed in hyper-spherical coordinates. This has to be done in order to avoid poles and branch cuts in the integrand of the self-energy loop. Since the nature of Dyson-Schwinger equations is such, that they have to be solved in a self-consistent way, one cannot analyze the analytic properties of the integrand after every iteration step, as this would not be feasible. In these proceedings, we suggest a machine learning pipeline based on deep learning (DL) approaches to computer vision (CV), as well as deep reinforcement learning (DRL), that could solve this problem autonomously by detecting poles and branch cuts in the numerical integrand after every iteration step and by suggesting suitable integration contour deformations that avoid these obstructions. We sketch out a proof of principle for both of these tasks, that is, the pole and branch cut detection, as well as the contour deformation.
Lack of workplace risk assessment as a predictor of adverse health effects for teleworkers - results from the survey on Life with COVID-19 in Latvia
Authors: Matisane Linda , Paegle Linda , Vanadzins Ivars , Linde Asnate Anna
Published: January 2022

Workplace risk assessment is one of the key tools for improving occupational safety and health conditions. However, providing risk assessment for teleworkplaces in the COVID-19 pandemic-related restrictions has been a challenge for employers. The objective of this study was to identify the frequency of implementation of workplace risk assessment for teleworkplaces and the association between it and self-reported health complaints among teleworkers during the 1st emergency state of the COVID-19 pandemic in Latvia. Teleworkers were recruited using a non-probability sampling (snowball sampling) method and social media advertisements. To obtain data that is representative of the demographic profile of the working population in Latvia, the sample was weighed based on gender and age. Out of 447 teleworking respondents included in our analysis, only 20.3% have mentioned that their employer had assessed the teleworking conditions (additional 8.1% reported partial assessment). Workers who have reported lack of risk assessment more often have health related complaints – e.g., pain longer than three days (26.9% with risk assessment versus 73.1% with no risk assessment), sore eyes (24.4% versus 75.6%) and anxiety (21.8% versus 78.2%) (p < 0.001 in all cases, except for pain). Increased incidence of occupational musculoskeletal diseases and burnout can be predicted in coming years in Latvia. Good practise examples should be gathered and promoted; guidelines for labour inspection should be developed in order to cover supervision of teleworking workplaces.
Loneliness of seniors in long-term care institutions and COVID-19 restrictions
Authors: Rasnaca Liga , Niklass Mareks , Rezgale-Straidoma Endija , Lina Dace
Published: January 2022

The ageing of society is a significant social and economic challenge in the 21st century Europe. The article analyses loneliness and social isolation among seniors in long-term care (LTC) institutions, as well as how COVID-19 restrictions influence their social isolation. Loneliness and social isolation are different phenomena, but they are interconnected. The feeling of loneliness is a person’s psychological state, but it is especially exacerbated among seniors. Loneliness is closely linked to the deficit of social relations. The study employs a mixed methods approach: a survey using the UCLA Loneliness Scale and semi-structured interviews with social workers in LTC institutions during the first wave of COVID-19 in the spring of 2020. A significant number of seniors in LTC experience loneliness or social isolation. The qualitative interviews reveal factors that account for loneliness among seniors. The study also indicates how social workers can reduce seniors’ sense of loneliness and social isolation caused by COVID-19 restrictions. Daily routines and pandemic constraints in LTC institutions to some extent limit the social worker’s ability to address the loneliness of seniors.
The effect of the concept of individual agency on the estimation of health among different agecohorts
Authors: Leonavicius Vylius , Zilys Apolonijus
Published: January 2022

The understanding of determinants of health in health policy and health promotion has shifted from a traditional focus on lifestyle (nutrition, exercises, addiction), toward a richer multidimensional approach. This shift has been strongly influenced by a body of research in the human capabilities’ approach, which emphasizes the role of person’s agency, freedom, and opportunities. Using survey data on 18–52 years old Lithuanian representatives, this paper explores the relationship between personal agency and subjective health perception as well as how it varies depending on the age and post-materialistic values. Human agency refers to the capability of an individual to control personal destiny and make choices to fulfill goals set autonomously (A. Giddens). The results show that agency is important factor of subjective health perception in Lithuania. The fact that capabilities that measure agency are aligned with subjective health measures support the view of human development as an integral process.
Work environment risk indicators for pharmacists in the preparation of extemporaneous medicines
Authors: Roja Zenija , Kalkis Henrijs , Melluma Agnese
Published: January 2022

The pharmaceutical sector is one of the leading sectors of the Latvian economy, but the extemporary prepared medicines still occupy a small market share. The study involved 44 pharmacists and pharmacist assistants preparing extemporal medicines, while the control group included pharmacists and pharmacist assistants who only attend customers in pharmacies. The aim of this study was to identify work environment risk indicators for pharmacists preparing extemporal medicines in open-type pharmacies. In the research, we used methods of observation and survey to identify the views of pharmacists and pharmacist assistants preparing medicines in open-type pharmacies. The study concluded that pharmacists and pharmacist assistants who prepare medicinal products in open type pharmacies are exposed to a wide range of work environment risks, especially to the chemical risks. During our investigation, we identified the main work environment risk indicators: occupational accidents, workload, lack of information, exposure to chemicals, length of service, work environment quality, and use of personal protective equipment.
The importance of narrative learning and reflexivity at work with foreigners granted asylum and the context of a non-governmental organization
Authors: Grudulaite Lina , Zemaitaityte Irena
Published: January 2022

This paper discusses the importance of narrative learning and reflexivity at work with foreigners granted asylum. The discussed data is from 1 year duration fieldwork at NGO working with refugees in Lithuania. In this paper the examples from 4 narrative portraits of NGO workers are presented. It is argued that narrative learning is an interactive and co-constructed process and there is the need of awareness about the narratives and narrative learning, and how storytelling could be used for effective social work practice. The paper discusses the doctoral research data and explores the links between narrative learning and reflexivity. It is argued that reflecting about their practice critically, the workers can create new narrative identities and better understand and analyse their own identities, values, choices, practices and wider local and international contexts. Therefore, it is important to increase reflexivity and awareness of workers about various contextual factors and discourses, which might be influencing their narratives about their work and refugees, and further research on narrative learning and narratives of NGO workers.
Effects of daytime ingestion of melatonin on heart rate response during prolonged exercise
Authors: Souissi Amine , Dergaa Ismail , Musa Sarah , Ben Saad Helmi , Souissi Nizar
Published: January 2022

The current study sought to investigate the effect of melatonin consumption on cardiovascular response during submaximal exercise in healthy men. For this purpose, eight students (age: 21.8 ± 0.9) were asked to run for 45 minutes at submaximal intensity after melatonin-(6 mg) or placebo-ingestion, in a randomized and counterbalanced order. Heart rate (HR) and rectal temperature (Tre) evolution during exercise were measured. Blood samples were drawn twice (before and immediately after exercise) for the determination of triglycerides, total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c), lactate, protein, and superoxide dismutase concentrations. The results showed that melatonin may disturb thermoregulatory control by exerting an effect on HR at 10 min of exercise, reducing HR by 6.6% (9 bpm; P < 0.001), and this effect decreased to 3.6% at the end of exercise (P < 0.01). Melatonin has no effect on triglycerides total cholesterol, HDL-c, lactate, and protein at rest and post-exercise. Although melatonin administration did not present a risk for cardiovascular function in healthy men, melatonin at high doses could decrease superoxide dismutase concentrations owing to the alteration of redox balance. These findings suggest that a high concentration of antioxidants does not enhance cardiovascular performance and may impair thermoregulatory control during prolonged exercise.
Administration of Antenatal Corticosteroids: Current State of Knowledge
Authors: Berger Richard , Kyvernitakis Ioannis , Maul Holger
Published: January 2022

The administration of a single course of corticosteroids before week 34 + 0 of gestation in cases with impending preterm birth is now standard procedure in obstetric care and firmly
established in the guidelines of different countries. But despite the apparently convincing data, numerous aspects of this intervention have not yet been properly studied. It is still not
clear which corticosteroid achieves the best results. There are very few studies on what constitutes an appropriate dose, circadian rhythms, the time frame in which corticosteroids are
effective, and the balance between the risks and benefits of repeat administration. As the existing studies have rarely included patients before week 24 + 0 of gestation, we have very little
information on the possible benefits of administering corticosteroids before this timepoint. If corticosteroids are administered antenatally after week 34 + 0 of gestation, the short-term
benefit may be offset by the long-term adverse effect on psychomotor development. This present study summarizes the current state of knowledge regarding these issues.
Microtomographic Evaluation of Canal Centralization and Dentine Removal after Canal Preparation with Two Rotary Systems: HyFlex EDM and ProTaper Next
Authors: Ronquete Vivian , Martin Alexandre Sigrist de , Zuim Karin , Coutinho Thais Machado de Carvalho , Marceliano Eduardo Fagury Videira , Goulart Paula Avelar Da Silva Ribeiro , Lopes Ricardo Tadeu , Silveira Bueno Carlos Eduardo Da , Marceliano-Alves Marília Fagury Videira
Published: January 2022

Objective This study compared the ProTaper Next (PTN; Dentsply Sirona, Tulsa, Oklahoma, United States) and HyFlex EDM (HEDM; Coltene/Whaledent AG, Alstätten, Switzerland) systems using micro–computed tomography (CT).

Materials and Methods Twenty-one mesial roots classified as Vertucci's type IV from extracted mandibular first molars with curvatures between 20 and 40 degrees were selected. The teeth were scanned using a micro-CT before and after root canal preparation by both systems, applied to the same root, in alternating canals. The following parameters were analyzed: canal centering, apical transportation, root canal diameter/root diameter.

Results No statistically significant differences between both systems were observed for any of the assessed morphological parameters (p > 0.05). All canals presented diameter enlargement of more than 40% in relation to root diameter in the cervical and middle segments. No statistically significant difference was noted between the HEDM and PTN groups. The wear percentage for the HEDM group in the cervical and middle thirds were 49.66 ± 8.65 and 46.48 ± 14.29, respectively, and 51.02 ± 11.81 and 45.48 ± 10.79 for the PTN group, respectively.

Conclusion Both systems displayed similar mandibular molar mesial canals preparation, with no differences noted for any of the assessed parameters. Both groups showed increased canal diameter in the cervical and middle thirds by more than 40%.
Low Levels of Tumor Necrosis Factor-α will Prevent Periodontitis Exacerbation in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Berniyanti Titiek , Wening Gilang Rasuna Sabdho , Palupi Retno , Setyowati Dini , Putri Cindy Ramadhan
Published: January 2022

Objectives Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a major risk factor for periodontitis. Susceptibility to periodontitis increases approximately three times in people with DM. There is a clear relationship between the degree of hyperglycemia and the severity of periodontitis. This study aimed to analyze the reduction of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in diabetics who came for periodontitis examination to prevent exacerbations.

Materials and Methods This was an analytic observational study using a cross-sectional approach at health centers in Surabaya, Indonesia. Measurement of periodontal status used the community periodontal index of treatment needs by measuring bleeding at probing and pocket depth. TNF-α was measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and behavior and lifestyle using a questionnaire.

Statistical Analysis The Kolmogorov–Smirnov test was performed to identify data normality (p < 0.05). A nonparametric test was used to measure the degree of association between different characteristics and the incidence of periodontitis in type 2 DM patients with and without periodontitis. Spearman's test was done to examine the correlation between TNF-α level and severity of periodontitis in diabetics. The significant level was at p <0.05.

Results There was a correlation between age, predisposing factors, reinforcing factors, drug consumption, and TNF-α levels in patients with type 2 DM and the incidence of periodontitis.

Conclusions Poor glycemic control can induce oxidative stress on the gingiva, thereby aggravating damage to periodontal tissue. An important factor in preventing periodontitis for type 2 DM patients is controlling blood sugar levels through regular consumption of drugs and regular maintenance of oral cavity health. Knowledge is a predisposing factor that affects adherence of people with type 2 DM to consuming drugs regularly, which can be strengthened by family support. These will ultimately play a role in reducing TNF-α levels.
Characterization of Novel Cement-Based Carboxymethyl Chitosan/Amorphous Calcium Phosphate
Authors: Putranto Aditya Wisnu , Suprastiwi Endang , Meidyawati Ratna , Agusnar Harry
Published: January 2022

Objective This study aimed to analyze, evaluate, and characterize novel cement-based carboxymethyl chitosan/amorphous calcium phosphate (CMC/ACP).

Materials and Methods The three cement groups studied were gypsum (Gyp), and CMC/ACP—gypsum cement-based 5% (5% CAG) and 10% (10% CAG). The groups were characterized using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), setting time, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) data. The characterization results were analyzed qualitatively, but the data for setting time were analyzed using SPSS (p < 0.05).

Statistical Analysis Data were statistically analyzed. One-way analysis of variance was used to compare numerical (parametric) data between more than two separate groups followed by post hoc Tukey.

Results FTIR showed phosphate groups indicate the presence of calcium phosphate in the form of amorphous (ACP) in the CMC/ACP, CMC/ACP post-milled powder, and CMC/ACP cement-based (5% CAG and 10% CAG). XRD showed no difference in the diffraction spectra among the Gyp, 5% CAG, and 10% CAG groups. SEM images revealed that the CMC/ACP cement-based groups (5% CAG and 10% CAG) showed CMC/ACP cluster filled with hollow spaces between the gypsum crystals and aggregations surrounding the gypsum crystals. The CMC/ACP showed envelopes and attached to the crystalline structures of the gypsum. Setting times of 5% CAG and 10% CAG showed significant differences compared with Gyp (p < 0.05).

Conclusion The result of our study showed that CMC/ACP cement-based (5% CAG and 10% CAG) demonstrated amorphous characteristic, which can stabilize calcium ions and phosphate group (ACP). In addition, the modification of gypsum using CMC/ACP as cement-based extended the time of setting.
Effect of Endotracheal Suctioning on Infants Born through Meconium-Stained Amniotic Fluid: A Meta-analysis
Authors: Wei Qing , Chen Wenjing , Liang Qian , Song Shurong , Li Jia
Published: January 2022

Objective Meconium is a common finding in amniotic fluid and placental specimens, particularly in term and post-term pregnancies. The objective of this paper was to perform a meta-analysis to examine the impact of endotracheal suctioning on the occurrence of meconium aspiration syndrome (MAS), mortality, and complications.

Study Design PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane library were systematically searched for comparative studies. Odds ratios (ORs), weighted mean differences (WMDs), and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were used to compare the outcomes.

Results Twelve studies were included in the meta-analysis. There were no significant impacts of endotracheal suctioning on the occurrence of MAS (OR = 3.05, 95% CI: 0.48–19.56), mortality (OR = 1.25, 95% CI: 0.35–4.44), the need for mechanical ventilation (OR = 4.20, 95% CI: 0.32–54.72), the occurrence of pneumothorax (OR = 0.99, 95% CI: 0.34–2.85), persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN), (OR = 1.31, 95% CI: 0.58–2.98), hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) (OR = 0.82, 95% CI: 0.52–1.30), and length of stay (WMD = −0.11, 95% CI: −0.99–0.77).

Conclusion Routine endotracheal suctioning at birth is not useful in preventing MAS, mortality, mechanical ventilation, PPHN, HIE, and prolonged length of stay in neonates born through MSAF.

Key Points
Study on Anatomical Variations in Fissures of Lung by CT Scan
Authors: Manjunath M. , Sharma M. Vishnu , Janso Kollanur , John Praveen Kumar , Anupama N. , Harsha D.S.
Published: January 2022

Introduction Refinements in the modern computed tomography (CT) imaging techniques have led to anatomical variations in the fissures of lung being diagnosed more frequently. So far, majority of the studies conducted are cadaveric. There is paucity of studies in this aspect based on chest CT images. Hence, we undertook this study to find the anatomical variations in the fissures. Prior detection of anatomical abnormalities is important to reduce postoperative complications in lung resection surgeries.

Materials and Methods This was a cross-sectional study conducted over a period of 2 years. Data were collected from the patients who underwent CT scan thorax. Patients in whom normal anatomy of lung was distorted and cases where both lungs were not visualized completely were excluded from the study. All the CT images were reviewed by a single radiologist. The presence or absence of the normal and accessory pulmonary fissures, as well as the continuity of each fissure, was recorded by the radiologist. Data were compiled and analyzed.

Results The study population consisted of 394 (70.4%) males and 166 (29.6%) females, totaling 560 cases. Fissural variations were detected in 22.9% (n = 128). Also, 17.5% (n = 98) fissural variations were seen in males and 5.4% (n = 30) fissural variations were seen in females. Further, 54.7% (n = 70) of variations were detected in the right lung and 45.3% (n = 58) in the left lung. The most common fissural variation noted was right incomplete oblique fissure with a frequency of 8.4% cases (n = 47). The most common accessory fissure detected was inferior accessory fissure. Total 22 cases were detected in both the lungs, 17 cases in male and 5 in female.

Conclusion Anatomical variations in fissures were found to be more in the right lung than the left lung. Accessory fissures were detected in higher incidence on the right side.
Post-Stroke Depression: Prevalence, Associated Factors, and Relationship to Disability in a Tertiary Care Center in Sri Lanka
Authors: Thambirajah Narmathey , Senanayake Sunethra , Gooneratne Kishara , Suraweera Chaturi , Ranasinghe Lakshitha , Kumbukage Mahesh
Published: January 2022

Background and Objectives The prevalence of stroke in urban Sri Lanka is estimated at 10.4 per 1000 and is expected to rise. Post-stroke depression (PSD) is an independent predictor of poor long-term outcomes. It leads to suboptimal rehabilitation, decreased quality of life, and increased mortality and is under-recognized. The main objectives of this study were to estimate the prevalence of depression in stroke, assess factors associated with PSD, and assess the relationship of PSD to disability.

Materials and Methods A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at the Neurology and Medical Ward, National Hospital of Sri Lanka. Non-probability, consecutive sampling was used to collect data from patients with ischemic stroke admitted from January 2019 to January 2020. Patients with significant pre-existing depression, cognitive impairment, and language deficits were excluded. A structured, pre-tested interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to assess the prevalence and associated factors of PSD. Beck's Depression Inventory (BDI) was administered 3 months following the stroke to screen for depression. Modified Rankin Score (MRS) was used to assess disability on admission, discharge, and at 3 months.

Results Eighty-one stroke patients were screened. The mean age was 66.6 years (±standard deviation [SD]: 12.5). Male:female ratio was 1.2:1. Depression at 3 months of follow-up was observed in 35.8% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 25.4–47.2%) of participants. Following bivariate analysis, large vessel stroke (p < 0.001), cortical stroke (p < 0.001), frontal lobe lesions (p < 0.001), history of past stroke (p = 0.014), and sexual dysfunction (p = 0.026) were associated with increased risk of PSD. The odds of a person with severe disability developing PSD was 7.9 times more than a person with a less severe disability at discharge from hospital and at 3 months of follow-up (odds ratio [OR] =7.9; 95% CI: 2.7–23.3, p = 0.000).

Conclusions PSD occurs in one-third of strokes, keeping with previous studies. The risk of having PSD is higher among patients with severe disabilities. The difference in risk factors identified compared with previous studies can be attributable to differences in methodology. Identifying risk factors for post-stroke depression is essential to mitigate the poor outcome.
Initial Experience Using the Transradial Approach for Endovascular Treatment of Vascular Pathologies: Safety and Feasibility
Authors: Saal-Zapata Giancarlo , Rodríguez-Varela Rodolfo
Published: January 2022

Background Endovascular treatment of vascular pathologies through the transradial approach has been increasingly used and has demonstrated a low rate of complications.

Objective To report our initial experience in the endovascular treatment of cerebrovascular diseases with the transradial approach and to determine its safety and feasibility.

Methods Consecutive patients who underwent the transradial approach for endovascular treatment of aneurysms and vascular malformations were reviewed at a single institution. Technical success, fluoroscopy time, and access-related complications were analyzed.

Results Eight patients underwent endovascular treatment with the transradial approach. One arteriovenous fistula, one superficial temporal artery aneurysm, three arteriovenous malformations, and four aneurysms were treated successfully. The radial artery was successfully approached and a 6-F sheath was used in all the cases. Navigation of guiding catheters (5 and 6 F) was done without complications. The most commonly approached artery was the right internal carotid artery, followed by the right vertebral artery. Postoperative vasospasm was identified in three patients. Mean fluoroscopy time was 34.7 minutes. Conversion to transfemoral approach was not required. No postoperative complications were reported.

Conclusions In our initial experience, the transradial approach is a safe and feasible alternative for the endovascular treatment of cerebrovascular pathologies.