bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interfacially Locked Metal Aerogel Inside Porous Polymer Composite for Sensitive and Durable Flexible Piezoresistive Sensors
Authors: Li Jian , Li Ning , Zheng Yuanyuan , Lou Dongyang , Jiang Yue , Jiang Jiaxi , Xu Qunhui , Yang Jing , Sun Yujing , Pan Chuxuan , Wang Jianlan , Peng Zhengchun , Zheng Zhikun , Liu Wei
Published: June 2022

Flexible pressure sensors play significant roles in wearable devices, electronic skins, and human‐machine interface (HMI). However, it remains challenging to develop flexible piezoresistive sensors with outstanding comprehensive performances, especially with excellent long‐term durability. Herein, a facile “interfacial locking strategy” has been developed to fabricate metal aerogel‐based pressure sensors with excellent sensitivity and prominent stability. The strategy broke the bottleneck of the intrinsically poor mechanical properties of metal aerogels by grafting them on highly elastic melamine sponge with the help of a thin polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) layer as the interface‐reinforcing media. The hierarchically porous conductive structure of the ensemble offered the as‐prepared flexible piezoresistive sensor with a sensitivity as high as 12 kPa−1, a response time as fast as 85 ms, and a prominent durability over 23 000 compression cycles. The excellent comprehensive performance enables the successful application of the flexible piezoresistive sensor as two‐dimensional (2D) array device as well as three‐dimensional (3D) force‐detecting device for real‐time monitoring of HMI activities.
Highly Selective Synthesis of cis‐2,2,4,4‐Tetramethylcyclobutane‐1,3‐diol via Solvent‐Free Hydrogenation and Isomerization
Authors: Park Kwihwan , Furusato Shinichi , Furugen Chikara , Ikawa Takashi , Yamada Tsuyoshi , Sajiki Hironao
Published: June 2022

In this study, ruthenium‐on‐carbon‐catalyzed hydrogenation of CBDK was developed for the production of cis‐CBDO under solvent‐free conditions. Isomerization using a ruthenium catalyst and hydrogen gas may improve the selective formation of cis‐CBDO. Moreover, the reaction mechanisms for cis‐selectivity was proposed based on density functional theory (DFT) calculations.
Copper‐Catalyzed Oxidative Amidation for the Synthesis of α‐Ketoamides from α‐Diazoketones with Amines Using Oxygen as Oxidant
Authors: Zhang Jianlan , Zhu Youyu , Cai Jiangtao , Jia Jia , Liu Guoyang , Dang Yongqiang , Wang Xuesong , Zhang Yating
Published: June 2022

A novel and efficient CuI‐catalyzed oxidative amidation for the synthesis of α‐ketoamides from α‐diazoketones with amines has been developed, which employs O2 as an environmentally friendly oxidant. Based on control experiments and the reactivity of α‐diazoketones, 2‐morpholino‐1‐phenylethanone was identified as a significant intermediate in this process and a plausible reaction mechanism was proposed. This methodology is a feasible, mild approach to α‐ketoamides in moderate to good yields.
Spontaneous Ammonia Activation Through Coordination‐Induced Bond Weakening in Molybdenum Complexes of a Dianionic Pentadentate Ligand Platform**
Authors: Almquist C. Christopher , Removski Nicole , Rajeshkumar Thayalan , Gelfand Benjamin S. , Maron Laurent , Piers Warren E.
Published: June 2022

Ammonia oxidation catalyzed by molecular compounds is of current interest as a carbon‐free source of dihydrogen. Activation of N−H bonds through coordination to transition metal centers is a key reaction in this process. We report the substantial activation of ammonia via reaction with low‐valent molybdenum complexes of a diborate pentadentate ligand system. Spontaneous loss of dihydrogen from (B2Pz4Py)MoII−NH3 at room temperature to produce the dinuclear μ‐nitrido compound (B2Pz4Py)Mo‐N‐Mo(B2Pz4Py) is observed due to substantial N−H bond weakening upon coordination to Mo. Mechanistic details are supported through the experimental observation/characterization of terminal amido, imido and nitrido complexes and density functional theory computations. The generally under‐appreciated role of bridging nitrido intermediates is revealed and discussed, providing guidance for further catalyst development for this process.
Fast A‐Site Cation Cross‐Exchange at Room Temperature: Single‐to Double‐ and Triple‐Cation Halide Perovskite Nanocrystals
Authors: Otero‐Martínez Clara , Imran Muhammad , Schrenker Nadine J. , Ye Junzhi , Ji Kangyu , Rao Akshay , Stranks Samuel D. , Hoye Robert L. Z. , Bals Sara , Manna Liberato , Pérez‐Juste Jorge , Polavarapu Lakshminarayana
Published: June 2022

We report here fast A‐site cation cross‐exchange between APbX3 perovskite nanocrystals (NCs) made of different A‐cations (Cs (cesium), FA (formamidinium), and MA (methylammonium)) at room temperature. Surprisingly, the A‐cation cross‐exchange proceeds as fast as the halide (X=Cl, Br, or I) exchange with the help of free A‐oleate complexes present in the freshly prepared colloidal perovskite NC solutions. This enabled the preparation of double (MACs, MAFA, CsFA)‐ and triple (MACsFA)‐cation perovskite NCs with an optical band gap that is finely tunable by their A‐site composition. The optical spectroscopy together with structural analysis using XRD and atomically resolved high‐angle annular dark‐field scanning transmission electron microscopy (HAADF‐STEM) and integrated differential phase contrast (iDPC) STEM indicates the homogeneous distribution of different cations in the mixed perovskite NC lattice. Unlike halide ions, the A‐cations do not phase‐segregate under light illumination.
Magneto‐Orientation of Magnetic Double Stacks for Patterned Anisotropic Hydrogels with Multiple Responses and Modulable Motions
Authors: Dai Chen Fei , Khoruzhenko Olena , Zhang Chengqian , Zhu Qing Li , Jiao Dejin , Du Miao , Breu Josef , Zhao Peng , Zheng Qiang , Wu Zi Liang
Published: June 2022

Reported here is a multi‐response anisotropic poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) hydrogel developed by using a rotating magnetic field to align magnetic double stacks (MDSs) that are fixed by polymerization. The magneto‐orientation of MDSs originates from the unique structure with γ‐Fe2O3 nanoparticles sandwiched by two silicate nanosheets. The resultant gels not only exhibit anisotropic optical and mechanical properties but also show anisotropic responses to temperature and light. Gels with complex ordered structures of MDSs are further devised by multi‐step magnetic orientation and photolithographic polymerization. These gels show varied birefringence patterns with potentials as information materials, and can deform into specific configurations upon stimulations. Multi‐gait motions are further realized in the patterned gel through dynamic deformation under spatiotemporal light and friction regulation by imposed magnetic force. The magneto‐orientation assisted fabrication of hydrogels with anisotropic structures and additional functions should bring opportunities for gel materials in biomedical devices, soft actuators/robots, etc.
Redox‐Active Crystalline Coordination Catalyst for Hybrid Electrocatalytic Methanol Oxidation and CO2 Reduction
Authors: Sun Sheng‐Nan , Dong Long‐Zhang , Li Jia‐Ru , Shi Jing‐Wen , Liu Jiang , Wang Yi‐Rong , Huang Qing , Lan Ya‐Qian
Published: June 2022

Hybrid CO2 electroreduction (HCER) is recognized as an important strategy to improve the total value of redox products and energy conversion efficiency. In this work, a coordination catalyst model system (Ni8‐TET with active oxidation sites, Ni‐TPP with active reduction sites and PCN‐601 with redox‐active sites) for HCER was established for the first time. Especially, PCN‐601 can complete both anodic methanol oxidation and cathodic CO2 reduction with FEHCOOH and FECO over 90 %. The performance can be further improved with light irradiation (FE nearly 100 %). DFT calculations reveal that the transfer of electrons from NiII8 clusters to metalloporphyrins under electric fields results in the raised oxidizability of Ni8 clusters and the raised reducibility of metalloporphyrin, which then improves the electrocatalytic performance. This work serves as a well‐defined model system and puts forward a new design idea for establishing efficient catalysts for hybrid CO2 electroreduction.
Solvent‐Dependent Supramolecular Host–Guest Assemblies of Platinum(II) Tweezers and a Guest System: From Discrete Molecules to High‐Ordered Oligomers
Authors: Yeung Jenny Yuk‐Wa , Kong Fred Ka‐Wai , Hau Franky Ka‐Wah , Chan Michael Ho‐Yeung , Ng Maggie , Leung Ming‐Yi , Yam Vivian Wing‐Wah
Published: June 2022

A series of platinum(II) calix[4]arene‐based molecular tweezers was synthesized. The studies of the host–guest association with a charge‐neutral cyclometalated platinum(II) complex showed a drastic color change and the turning on of near‐infrared emission resulting from Pt⋅⋅⋅Pt and π–π interactions. Control of the host–guest assembly process by varying the solvent composition can lead to a change from discrete host and guest molecules to high‐ordered host–guest oligomers with the formation of sheet‐like nanostructures, demonstrating a rare example of three‐state supramolecular host–guest system with high solubility in solvents of diverse polarity. The change in host–guest assembly behaviors could be probed by drastic color changes from yellow to orange to green. The present study provides insights into the systematic design of solvent‐responsive molecular materials using molecular tweezers‐directed host–guest assembly, with potential applications in colorimetric sensing of changes in the micro‐environment.
One‐Step Thermophoretic AND Gate Operation on Extracellular Vesicles Improves Diagnosis of Prostate Cancer
Authors: Deng Jinqi , Zhao Shuai , Li Junhong , Cheng Yangchang , Liu Chao , Liu Zheng , Li Lele , Tian Fei , Dai Bo , Sun Jiashu
Published: June 2022

Circulating extracellular vesicles (EVs) have emerged as a valuable source of cancer biomarkers. However, the high degree of EV heterogeneity and the complexity of clinical samples pose a challenge in the sensitive identification of tumor‐derived EVs. Here we introduce a one‐step thermophoretic AND gate operation (Tango) assay that integrates polyethylene glycol (PEG)‐enhanced thermophoretic accumulation of EVs and simultaneous AND gate operation on EV membranes by dual‐aptamers recognition. By using the Tango assay to detect tumor‐derived EVs with co‐presence of EpCAM and PSMA directly from serum in a homogeneous, separation‐free format, we can discriminate prostate cancer (PCa) patients from benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) patients in the diagnostic gray zone with an accuracy of 91 % in 15 min. Our approach streamlines EV enrichment and AND gate operation on EVs in a single assay, providing a rapid, straightforward, and powerful method for precise and non‐invasive diagnosis of cancer.
Flexible anodic bonding for the bonding between elastomer and metal
Authors: Zhao Haocheng , Liu Cuirong , Du Chao , Zhang Ying , Zhang Zhichao , Liang Chunping , Wu Yuling
Published: June 2022

Considering the inadaptability of traditional anodic bonding to polymer materials, the flexible anodic bonding process is developed. The bonding characteristics of the dynamic intelligent electric fields with the low‐temperature plasma surface treatment to polymer and ultrasonic‐assisted preconnection before bonding are very suitable for the anodic bonding of polymer elastomer to aluminum (Al) sheet. A series of composite polyurethane elastomer cathode materials (CPECs) with good bonding properties are prepared and characterized. The highest ionic conductivity of CPECs can reach to 2.7 × 10−3 S/cm (CPEC2) at 75°C. After bonded, it is determined that a uniform and dense intermediate bonding layer showed by SEM is formed between CPECs and Al. In addition, different elements including C, O, F, S, and Al are clearly identified by EDS in the bonding layers, showing that the process of flexible anodic bonding has accompanied the directional migration of ions. The maximum tensile strength of bonding layer for CPEC2 and Al (CPEC2‐Al) is up to 2.03 MPa. It is proven that the developed flexible anodic bonding can effectively improve the joint quality and reliability for polymer elastomer materials. All these results of anodic bonding are more potentially valuable to the packaging of flexible devices.
High Performance Lithium Metal Anode with a Nanolayer of LiZn Alloy for All‐Solid‐State Batteries
Authors: Delaporte Nicolas , Perea Alexis , Collin‐Martin Steve , Léonard Mireille , Matton Julie , Gariepy Vincent , Demers Hendrix , Clément Daniel , Rivard Etienne , Vijh Ashok
Published: June 2022

All‐solid‐state batteries (ASSB) require stable and safe lithium (Li) metal anode, which needs surface preparation to increase lithium diffusion and impede the formation of dendrites. In this work, the formation of a thin LiZn layer on lithium metal using sputter deposition is reported. This method was selected due to the absence of solvents and by‐products generated during the modification, for its rapidity and because the formation of the alloy is performed in a clean and controlled atmosphere. Zinc has been chosen for its low cost and high Li+ ion diffusion coefficient of the corresponding LiZn alloy that is 1000 times higher than Li. Different parameters for the Zn deposition were investigated such as the distance between the Zn target and Li foil, the effect of substrate tilt and the direct current applied to the target. Electrochemical performance of LiFePO4/solid polymer electrolyte/Li ASSB demonstrated the superiority of the LiZn anodes and the clear influence of deposition parameters on the durability and performance at high C‐rates. Scanning electron microscopy images of the cross‐sectional view of LFP/SPE/Li stackings extracted from pouch cells after cycling showed an evident migration of Zn into the bulk Li metal anode as well as the formation of AlZn nanoparticles.
Application of a headspace GC–MS method to evaluate the product quality of alcohol‐based hand wipe sanitizers
Authors: Abrigo Nicolas , Ruzicka Connie , Faustino Patrick , Stiber Neil , NguyenPho Agnes , O'Connor Thomas , Shakleya Diaa
Published: June 2022

The investigation of marketed hand wipe sanitizers presented an analytical challenge owing to the need for extraction from the solid matrix of the products. The present work describes the development of a new sample preparation method for the extraction of analytes from the hand wipe sanitizer matrix into dimethyl sulfoxide for analysis using headspace GCMS. Alcohol‐based hand sanitizer (ABHS) wipe products labeled to contain ethanol or isopropanol as active ingredients were tested, varying in the size and weight of the wipes. The spike recovery assay was confirmed using spiking solutions containing impurities at concentrations equivalent to 50, 100 and 200% of the interim concentration limits. All of the tested analytes showed recovery within the allowable limits (80–120%). Six marketed ABHS wipe products were tested and no impurities above the FDA interim limits were observed. One product contained ethanol below the 60% v/v limit and another product was mislabeled for isopropanol and was found to contain ethanol instead. Four of the six ABHS products did not meet the label claim, which may affect the product quality. The analytical method and sample preparation procedures will provide the FDA and ABHS manufacturers with the capability to conduct quality assurance testing of hand wipe sanitizers for active ingredient content and impurities.
Combining hands‐on and virtual experiments for enhancing fluid mechanics teaching: A design‐based research study
Authors: Gutierrez Ronald R. , Escusa Frank , Lyon Joseph A. , Magana Alejandra J. , Cabrera Jose H. , Pehovaz Richard , Link Oscar , Rivillas‐Ospina German , Acuña Guillermo J. , Kuroiwa Julio M. , Guzman Monica X. , Latosinski Francisco G.
Published: June 2022

Fluid Mechanics courses comprise both theoretical and laboratory modules. In developing nations, computer‐assisted techniques are not commonly applied in Fluid Mechanics instruction. Forced by the COVID‐19 pandemic, South American universities are, however, using them for online teaching. This contribution presents an 8‐semester (2016–2019) educational intervention over an undergraduate Fluid Mechanics course. It mainly blends physical (hands‐on) and virtual experiments (computer fluid dynamics‐based simulations) for the laboratory module, which are complemented by flipped classroom‐based prompts for the theoretical module. The intervention follows design‐based research as a research method and is guided via conjecture mapping and fidelity of implementation standards. Our results suggest that the intervention improves fluid mechanics laboratory instruction, although improvements depend upon the participation of other educational actors such as teaching assistants and laboratory technicians to some extent. Laboratory report grades (the assessment instrument) follow the Gompertz probability distribution. Following UNESCO standards, a portion of the intervention output is shared as open educational resources. This contribution encourages upscaling the educational intervention through the formation of cooperative clusters to build common‐pool Fluid Mechanics resources. Learning scientists have underlined the need to better understand laboratory instruction processes. They have been addressed in very few instances in developing countries. We believe that this study has the potential to provide valuable insights on the matter.
Predictive risk score of respiratory complications in children with mediastinal tumors: A case–control study
Authors: Honda Mamoru , Yuki Arakawa , Takahiro Hosokawa , Chigusa Oyama , Yuichi Mitani , Makiko Mori , Fukuoka Kohei , Koichi Oshima , Yutaka Tanami , Tetsuya Ishimaru , Hiroshi Kawashima , Koichi Mizuta , Ikuya Ueta , Norifumi Kuratani , Katsuyoshi Koh
Published: June 2022

Background

The aim of this study was to examine risk factors of respiratory complications at the diagnosis and establish an algorithm of clinical management in children and adolescents with mediastinal tumors.

Methods

We retrospectively collected clinical information of all children and adolescents who presented with mediastinal tumors at Saitama Children's Medical Center from 1999 to 2019, including age, sex, pathological diagnosis, eight major clinical symptoms (cough, dyspnea, hypoxia, orthopnea, chest pain, wheeze, superior vena cava syndrome, and stridor), chest computed tomography (CT) findings (tumor location, mediastinal mass ratio, pleural fluid, pericardial effusion, and compression of trachea and bronchi), types of diagnostic procedure and anesthesia, respiratory complications (severe hypoxia, difficult ventilation, respiratory failure, and cardiopulmonary arrest), and clinical outcome. Subsequently, we calculated the risk score for predicting respiratory complications by combining clinical and radiological findings.

Results

Of the 57 patients, 7 (12%) developed respiratory complications. Cough, dyspnea, hypoxia, and orthopnea were significantly more common in patients with complications (p = 0.02, p = 0.02, p < 0.01, p = 0.03, respectively). The reduction of percentage of tracheal cross‐sectional area (%TCA) and compression of the carina in chest CT were also significantly more common in patients with complications (p < 0.01 and <0.01, respectively). We calculated the risk score of respiratory complications by combining cough, wheeze, stridor, orthopnea, dyspnea, hypoxia, %TCA < 0.5, and compression of the carina. A risk score ≥ 7 showed high predictive accuracy for complications (sensitivity: 100%, specificity: 97.7%, positive likelihood ratio: 43.0).

Conclusion

The risk score combining clinical symptoms with radiological findings is a promising predictive tool for respiratory complications in children with mediastinal tumors.
Effect of Experimental Parameters on the Electrocatalytic Performance in Rotating Disc Electrode Measurements: Case Study of Oxygen Evolution on Ni−Co‐Oxide in Alkaline Media
Authors: Bhandari Sabita , Narangoda Praveen V. , Mogensen Siri O. , Tesch Marc F. , Mechler Anna K.
Published: June 2022

A preselection of catalysts by screening their performance prior to intensive analysis can save a lot of time and money. A commonly applied screening tool is the rotating disk electrode setup. For powder materials, however, the measured electrocatalytic performance can be influenced by various experimental parameters. Here, a nickel cobalt mixed‐oxide is investigated as a model catalyst for the oxygen evolution reaction in alkaline media. The determined electrochemical performance upon variation of the ink composition, catalyst loading, electrolyte concentration, and gas saturation in the electrolyte is systematically evaluated. The results indicate that some parameters do not directly influence the measured performance, whereas others show a significant effect. Special attention is given to the interaction with Fe‐impurities present in the electrolyte. The here presented insights into the impact of different parameters can support the interpretation of possible side effects in electrocatalyst analysis.
Regioselective nitration of toluene to para‐nitrotoluene with NO2 over dealumination Hβ zeolite: Comparison of organic and inorganic acids
Authors: Deng Renjie , Tian Yao , Liu Huajie , Yan Weiwei
Published: June 2022

This work presents a novel heterogeneous catalytic system for the preparation of para‐nitrotoluene (p‐NT) with nitrogen dioxide (NO2) as a nitrating agent in the presence of oxygen (O2). By applying dealuminated Hβ zeolite treated with oxalic acid (Hβ‐Ox) as a catalyst, p‐NT can be obtained with high conversion (90.5%) and selectivity (72.6%). In addition, it can be recycled at least five times without a significant decrease in catalytic activity. This result demonstrates that the catalyst has high efficiency, good stability, and regenerability. Meanwhile, the characteristics of pristine Hβ and different dealuminated Hβ zeolites modified with organic and inorganic acids were systematic contrastive studied using X‐ray diffraction (XRD), nitrogen (N2) adsorption‐desorption, Fourier‐transform infrared (FT‐IR), scanning electron microscope (SEM), temperature‐programed desorption of ammonia (NH3‐TPD), pyridine adsorption infrared (Py‐FT‐IR), and solid state 27Al nuclear magnetic resonance (27Al MAS‐NMR). Finally, the higher conversion and para‐selectivity over Hβ‐Ox also give a reasonable explanation in this paper.
Cultural heritage and risk assessments: Gaps, challenges, and future research directions for the inclusion of heritage within climate change adaptation and disaster management
Authors: Crowley Kate , Jackson Rowan , O'Connell Siona , Karunarthna Dulma , Anantasari Esti , Retnowati Arry , Niemand Dominique
Published: June 2022

Cultural heritage shapes our identity, delivers capacities, and exposes vulnerabilities, yet cultural heritage value and vulnerability are largely missing from conventional risk assessments. Risk assessments are a fundamental first step in identifying effective mechanisms for Climate Change Adaptation (CCA) and disaster management. However, by ignoring the influence of heritage, decision makers are limiting their understanding of risk and therefore opportunities vital for building and maintaining local resilience. We present findings from a synthesis of peer‐reviewed literature from the last 15 years on cultural heritage risk assessment for primarily CCA but with wider implications for disaster management. We identify a significant lack of research examining intangible aspects of heritage and their influence on risk and resilience. Across the literature, risk assessments focus largely on exposure in isolation from vulnerability or adaptive capacity and where vulnerability is included there is no consistent definition or criterion. We highlight that the most frequently used methods have minimal engagement with local community values, experience, and knowledge relating to heritage practice and customs. Community engagement is most often associated with ‘professional experts’ rather than members of a local community. Furthermore, the Global South is severely under‐represented with a research bias towards Europe and North America. We recommend an agile approach to future assessments with the adjustment of risk tool research and development to include participatory approaches. Future climate risk frameworks must incorporate community‐scale values to understand the role of cultural heritage in relation to adaptive capacity, vulnerability, and resilience.
Relationships between cystatin C and creatinine‐based eGFR with low tongue pressure in Japanese rural community‐dwelling older adults
Authors: Kusunoki Hiroshi , Hasegawa Yoko , Tsuji Shotaro , Wada Yosuke , Tamaki Kayoko , Nagai Koutatsu , Mori Takara , Matsuzawa Ryota , Kishimoto Hiromitsu , Shimizu Hideo , Shinmura Ken
Published: June 2022

Background

Sarcopenia is prevalent in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), which is defined as a low estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). It has been reported that oral hypofunction characterized by decreased tongue pressure is related to sarcopenia. Although there are several previous reports regarding the association of renal dysfunction with oral hypofunction characterized by low tongue pressure, the association between tongue pressure and renal function is not fully understood.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study included 68 men aged 79.0 ± 4.8 years and 145 women aged 77.3 ± 5.4 years from a rural area in Hyogo Prefecture, Japan. We examined the relationships between cystatin C‐based CKD (CKDcys), creatinine‐based CKD (CKDcre), ratio of cystatin C‐based GFR (eGFRcys) divided by creatinine‐based GFR (eGFRcre): eGFRcys/eGFRcre, and tongue pressure in community‐dwelling older adults.

Results

Tongue pressure was significantly lower in participants with CKDcys than in those without CKDcys in men and women. However, there were no significant differences in tongue pressure with or without CKDcre. Tongue pressure was significantly lower in participants with eGFRcys/eGFRcre <1.0, than in those with eGFRcys/eGFRcre ≧ 1.0 in men. According to the receiver operating characteristic analysis, the optimal cut‐off value of tongue pressure for the presence of CKDcys was 36.6kPa, area under the curve (AUC) 0.74 (specificity 54.8%, sensitivity 84.6%) in men and 31.8kPa, AUC 0.65 (specificity 67.3%, sensitivity 60.5%) in women.

Conclusions

CKDcys but not CKDcre is associated with low tongue pressure. In addition, a lower eGFRcys/eGFRcre ratio is a useful screening marker of low tongue pressure in community‐dwelling older adults.
Association between dietary hardness score and activities of daily living among individuals aged 90 years
Authors: Urabe Hidenori , Oue Hiroshi , Hiasa Kyou , Tsuga Kazuhiro
Published: June 2022

Objectives

With the rapidly aging world population, Japan has many older people with difficulties in maintaining oral health. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between dietary hardness score and performance of activities of daily living (ADL) of 90‐year‐old individuals in rural areas of Japan.

Material and Methods

A total of 236 individuals (64 men and 172 women) aged 90 years in Mitsugi town, Hiroshima, Japan, were included. Assessment of oral status and survey of ADL were performed. The association of ADL with dietary hardness score and the number of remaining teeth was determined.

Results

The mean dietary hardness score was 8.3 ± 2.6. Eighty individuals showed independence in ADL, whereas 156 individuals showed dependence. Logistic regression analysis, adjusted for potential confounding factors, showed that dietary hardness score was associated with ADL status but not the number of remaining teeth.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that a low dietary hardness score is associated with dependence on ADL in 90‐year‐old individuals.
Exercise haemodynamics in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Baratto Claudia , Caravita Sergio , Soranna Davide , Dewachter Céline , Bondue Antoine , Zambon Antonella , Badano Luigi P. , Parati Gianfranco , Vachiéry Jean‐Luc
Published: June 2022

Aims

Exercise right heart catheterization (RHC) is considered the gold‐standard test to diagnose heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). However, exercise RHC is an insufficiently standardized technique, and current haemodynamic thresholds to define HFpEF are not universally accepted. We sought to describe the exercise haemodynamics profile of HFpEF cohorts reported in literature, as compared with control subjects.

Methods and results

We performed a systematic literature review until December 2020. Studies reporting pulmonary artery wedge pressure (PAWP) at rest and peak exercise were extracted. Summary estimates of all haemodynamic variables were evaluated, stratified according to body position (supine/upright exercise). The PAWP/cardiac output (CO) slope during exercise was extrapolated. Twenty‐seven studies were identified, providing data for 2180 HFpEF patients and 682 controls. At peak exercise, patients with HFpEF achieved higher PAWP (30 [29–31] vs. 16 [15–17] mmHg, P < 0.001) and mean right atrial pressure (P < 0.001) than controls. These differences persisted after adjustment for age, sex, body mass index, and body position. However, peak PAWP values were highly heterogeneous among the cohorts (I2 = 93%), with a relative overlap with controls. PAWP/CO slope was steeper in HFpEF than in controls (3.75 [3.20–4.28] vs. 0.95 [0.30–1.59] mmHg/L/min, P value < 0.0001), even after adjustment for covariates (P = 0.007).

Conclusions

Despite methodological heterogeneity, as well as heterogeneity of pooled haemodynamic estimates, the exercise haemodynamic profile of HFpEF patients is consistent across studies and characterized by a steep PAWP rise during exercise. More standardization of exercise haemodynamics may be advisable for a wider application in clinical practice.
Impact of different training modalities on high‐density lipoprotein function in HFpEF patients: a substudy of the OptimEx trial
Authors: Sowa Pamela W. , Winzer Ephraim B. , Hommel Jennifer , Männel Anita , van Craenenbroeck Emeline M. , Wisløff Ulrik , Pieske Burkert , Halle Martin , Linke Axel , Adams Volker
Published: June 2022

Aims

In heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), the reduction of nitric oxide (NO)‐bioavailability and consequently endothelial dysfunction leads to LV stiffness and diastolic dysfunction of the heart. Besides shear stress, high‐density lipoprotein (HDL) stimulates endothelial cells to increased production of NO via phosphorylation of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS). For patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction, earlier studies demonstrated a positive impact of exercise training (ET) on HDL‐mediated eNOS activation. The study aims to investigate the influence of ET on HDL‐mediated phosphorylation of eNOS in HFpEF patients.

Methods and results

The present study is a substudy of the OptimEx‐Clin trial. The patients were randomized to three groups: (i) HIIT (high‐intensity interval training; (ii) MCT (moderate‐intensity continuous training); and (iii) CG (control group). Supervised training at study centres was offered for the first 3 months. From months 4–12, training sessions were continued at home with the same exercise protocol as performed during the in‐hospital phase. Blood was collected at baseline, after 3, and 12 months, and HDL was isolated by ultracentrifugation. Human aortic endothelial cells were incubated with isolated HDL, and HDL‐induced eNOS phosphorylation at Ser1177 and Thr495 was assessed. Subsequently, the antioxidative function of HDL was evaluated by measuring the activity of HDL‐associated paraoxonase‐1 (Pon1) and the concentration of thiobarbituric acid‐reactive substances (TBARS). After 3 months of supervised ET, HIIT resulted in increased HDL‐mediated eNOS‐Ser1177 phosphorylation. This effect diminished after 12 months of ET. No effect of HIIT was observed on HDL‐mediated eNOS‐Thr495 phosphorylation. MCT had no effect on HDL‐mediated eNOS phosphorylation at Ser1177 and Thr495. HIIT also increased Pon1 activity after 12 months of ET and reduced the concentration of TBARS in the serum after 3 and 12 months of ET. A negative correlation was observed between TBARS concentration and HDL‐associated Pon1 activity in the HIIT group (r = −0.61, P < 0.05), and a trend was evident for the correlation between the change in HDL‐mediated eNOS‐Ser1177 phosphorylation and the change in peak V̇O2 after 3 months in the HIIT group (r = 0.635, P = 0.07).

Conclusions

The present study documented that HIIT but not MCT exerts beneficial effects on HDL‐mediated eNOS phosphorylation and HDL‐associated Pon1 activity in HFpEF patients. These beneficial effects of HIIT were reduced as soon as the patients switched to home‐based ET.
Two‐year outcome of ventricular assist device via a modified left atrium to aorta approach in cardiac amyloidosis
Authors: Lim Choon Pin , Lim Yeong Phang , Lim Chong Hee , Ong Hean‐Yee , Tan Daryl , Omar Abdul Razakjr
Published: June 2022

Cardiac amyloidosis is a debilitating disease associated with poor long‐term survival. Medical or palliative treatment is the usual course of therapy, but patients are often intolerant of conventional heart failure treatment. The current standard of care of sequential heart and bone marrow transplant is usually not feasible for ill or frail patients or in countries with limited organ donors or without transplant programmes. Left ventricular assist devices (LVAD) are not usually offered to these patients due to high peri‐operative risks and risks of suction events with the LVAD in a small left ventricle. We report the 2 year outcome and discuss the challenges faced in the management of our patient with end‐stage heart failure due to cardiac amyloidosis, who was successfully supported with an LVAD using a modified left atrium to aorta implantation technique.
Impact of cardiac resynchronization therapy optimization inside a heart failure programme: a real‐world experience
Authors: Moulin Thibaut , Hamon David , Djouadi Kamila , D'Humières Thomas , Elbaz Nathalie , Boukantar Madjid , Zerbib Céline , Rouffiac Ségolène , Dhanjal Tarvinder S. , Ernande Laura , Derumeaux Geneviève , Teiger Emmanuel , Damy Thibaud , Lellouche Nicolas
Published: June 2022

Aims

This study sought to describe and evaluate the impact of a routine in‐hospital cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) programme, including comprehensive heart failure (HF) evaluation and systematic echo‐guided CRT optimization.

Methods and results

CRT implanted patients were referred for optimization programme at 3 to 12 months from implantation. The program included clinical and biological status, standardized screening for potential cause of CRT non‐response and systematic echo‐guided atrioventricular and interventricular delays (AVd and VVd) optimization. Initial CRT‐response and improvement at 6 months post‐optimization were assessed with a clinical composite score (CCS). Major HF events were tracked during 1 year after optimization. A total of 227 patients were referred for CRT optimization and enrolled (71 ± 11 years old, 77% male, LVEF 30.6 ± 7.9%), of whom 111 (48.9%) were classified as initial non‐responders. Left ventricular lead dislodgement was noted in 4 patients (1.8%), and loss or ≤90% biventricular capture in 22 (9.7%), mostly due to arrhythmias. Of the 196 patients (86%) who could undergo echo‐guided CRT optimization, 71 (36.2%) required VVd modification and 50/144 (34.7%) AVd modification. At 6 months post‐optimization, 34.3% of the initial non‐responders were improved according to the CCS, but neither AVd nor VVd echo‐guided modification was significantly associated with CCS‐improvement. After one‐year follow‐up, initial non‐responders maintained a higher rate of major HF events than initial responders, with no significant difference between AVd/VVd modified or not.

Conclusions

Our study supports the necessity of a close, comprehensive and multidisciplinary follow‐up of CRT patients, without arguing for routine use of echo‐guided CRT optimization.
Long‐term survival and life expectancy following an acute heart failure hospitalization in Australia and New Zealand
Authors: Hariharaputhiran Saranya , Peng Yang , Ngo Linh , Ali Anna , Hossain Sadia , Visvanathan Renuka , Adams Robert , Chan Wandy , Ranasinghe Isuru
Published: June 2022

Aims

Contemporary long‐term survival following a heart failure (HF) hospitalization is uncertain. We evaluated survival up to 10 years after a HF hospitalization using national data from Australia and New Zealand, identified predictors of survival, and estimated the attributable loss in life expectancy.

Methods and results

Patients hospitalized with a primary diagnosis of HF from 2008–2017 were identified and all‐cause mortality assessed by linking with Death Registries. Flexible parametric survival models were used to estimate survival, predictors of survival and loss in life expectancy. A total of 283 048 patients with HF were included (mean age 78.2 ± 12.3 years, 50.8% male). Of these, 48.3% (48.1–48.5) were surviving by 3 years, 34.1% (33.9–34.3) by 5 years and 17.1% (16.8–17.4) by 10 years (median survival 2.8 years). Survival declined with age with 53.4% of patients aged 18–54 years and 6.2% aged ≥85 years alive by 10 years (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] for mortality 4.84, 95% confidence interval [CI] 4.65–5.04 for ≥85 years vs. 18–54 years) and was worse in male patients (aHR 1.14, 95% CI 1.13–1.15). Prior HF (aHR 1.20, 95% CI 1.18–1.22), valvular and rheumatic heart disease (aHR 1.11, 95% CI 1.10–1.13) and vascular disease (aHR 1.07, 95% CI 1.04–1.09) were cardiovascular comorbidities most strongly associated with long‐term death. Non‐cardiovascular comorbidities and geriatric syndromes were common and associated with higher mortality. Compared with the general population, HF was associated with a loss of 7.3 years in life expectancy (or 56.6% of the expected life expectancy) and reached 20.5 years for those aged 18–54 years.

Conclusion

Less than one in five patients hospitalized for HF were surviving by 10 years with patients experiencing almost 60% loss in life expectancy compared with the general population, highlighting the considerable persisting societal burden of HF. Concerted multidisciplinary efforts are needed to improve post‐hospitalization outcomes of HF.
Rapid and Mild Cleavage of Aryl‐Alkyl Ethers to Liberate Phenols
Authors: Torrens Aidan A. , Ly Alexandra L. , Fong Darryl , Adronov Alex
Published: June 2022

We report that the Piers‐Rubinsztajn reaction enables rapid deprotection of aryl alkyl ethers under ambient conditions. This chemistry leverages tris(pentafluorophenyl)borane and silyl hydrides to convert aryl methyl ethers to siloxanes, which can then be cleaved using 1 % HCl in EtOH. We examined 26 derivatives and routinely obtained yields >85 %, even in the presence of sterically demanding groups and complex substrate structures. Other alkyl ethers including ethyl, propyl, isopropyl, tert‐butyl, and benzyl groups were also easily removed.
Noncombustibility: Testing and regulatory requirements
Authors: Hirschler Marcelo M.
Published: June 2022

This work describes the test methods used in the United States and in Western Europe for regulatory assessments of whether a material can be considered to be a noncombustible material for use in building construction. It also provides the history of the development of such test methods, which is essential for understanding their use in regulation. The work distinguishes between the absolute concept of noncombustibility and the use of the concept in actual practice, for building construction. A key aspect of the work is that it describes both the origin of the pass/fail criteria associated with the test methods in use and their application. The work also describes the type of requirement that is being associated, in codes and regulations, with materials (which are designated limited combustible materials by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and as A2 materials by the European Union) that provide “no significant” contribution to fire hazard. Such materials are often permitted for use in applications where otherwise only noncombustible materials are permitted. The work discusses other proposed methods for assessing noncombustibility, mainly based on heat release, which, although technically sound, have not become adopted for regulation in either the US or Western Europe. The work also discusses pass/fail criteria associated with the major noncombustibility tests, namely those associated with ASTM E136 (in the US) and ISO 1182 (in Western Europe and the maritime world) and the rationale for such criteria.
Toward robust models for predicting carbon dioxide absorption by nanofluids
Authors: Nait Amar Menad , Djema Hakim , Belhaouari Samir Brahim , Zeraibi Noureddine
Published: June 2022

The application of nanofluids has received increased attention across a number of disciplines in recent years. Carbon dioxide (CO2) absorption by using nanofluids as the solvents for the capture of CO2 is among the attractive applications, which have recently gained high popularity in various industrial aspects. In this work, two robust explicit‐based machine learning (ML) methods, namely group method of data handling (GMDH) and genetic programming (GP) were implemented for establishing accurate correlations that can estimate the absorption of CO2 by nanofluids. The correlations were developed using a comprehensive database that involved 230 experimental measurements. The obtained results revealed that the proposed ML‐based correlations can predict the absorption of CO2 by nanofluids with high accuracy. Besides, it was found that the GP‐based correlation yielded more precise predictions compared to the GMDH‐based correlation. The GP‐based correlation has an overall coefficient of determination of 0.9914 and an overall average absolute relative deviation of 3.732%. Lastly, the carried‐out trend analysis confirmed the compatibility of the proposed GP‐based correlation with the real physical tendency of CO2 absorption by nanofluids. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Radiative magneto‐thermogravitational flow in a porous square cavity with viscous heating and Hall current effects: A numerical study of ψ–v scheme
Authors: Venkatadri K.
Published: June 2022

A numerical study presented for the natural convection two‐dimensional incompressible flow of a magnetized fluid in a square enclosure filled with porous medium. Viscous dissipation, thermal radiation, and Hall current effects are included. The formulated computational domain comprising the mass, momentum, and energy conservation equations with appropriate boundary conditions, is rendered dimensionless via appropriate scaling transformations. The resulting nondimensional partial governing equations are solved by the ψ–v scheme. A detailed parametric investigation of the influence of Hartman number (magnetic body force parameter), Rayleigh number (thermal buoyancy parameter), Darcy number (permeability parameter), Eckart number for porous medium, Hall parameter, and radiation parameter on the streamline, temperature contours, local Nusselt number along the hot wall and mid‐section velocity profiles are computed. Thermal Rayleigh number can be a control key parameter on heat and flow in enclosures. In addition, the heat transfer rate is intensified with increasing thermal Rayleigh numbers. With increasing Darcy number (i.e., greater permeability of the porous medium and progressively lower Darcian drag force) there is a strong elevation in the average Nusselt number at the left hot wall.
Successful immunomodulation in kidney transplant recipients with cytokine release syndrome after coronavirus disease
Authors: Takamoto Daiji , Sasaki Hajime , Kataoka Hiroshi , Kodama Fumihiro , Higuchi Haruka , Hirano Tetsuo , Takada Yusuke , Harada Shigeru , Harada Hiroshi , Tanaka Hiroshi
Published: June 2022

Introduction

Patients with coronavirus disease, especially solid organ transplant recipients, are more susceptible to developing cytokine release syndrome than those with other viral infections. However, currently, treatment methods for such patients have not been established. Here, we describe two cases of successful immunomodulation in Japanese kidney transplant recipients with cytokine release syndrome following coronavirus disease.

Case presentation

Two patients who had been receiving long‐term immunosuppressant therapy developed coronavirus disease‐associated pneumonia caused by cytokine release syndrome, following immunosuppressant dosage reduction. However, they recovered immediately after administration of tocilizumab with or without dexamethasone.

Conclusion

The immunosuppressant dosage should be reduced to restore host immunity; however, immunomodulation should be considered in cases of suspected cytokine release syndrome.
Research and scholarly methods: Implementation science studies
Authors: Kuo Grace M. , Trinkley Katy E. , Rabin Borsika
Published: June 2022

Traditional research focuses on efficacy or effectiveness of interventions but lacks evaluation of strategies needed for equitable uptake, scalable implementation, and sustainable evidence‐based practice transformation. The purpose of this introductory review is to describe key implementation science (IS) concepts as they apply to medication management and pharmacy practice, and to provide guidance on literature review with an IS lens. There are five key ingredients of IS, including: (a) evidence‐based intervention; (b) implementation strategies; (c) IS theory, model, or framework; (d) IS outcomes and measures; and (e) stakeholder engagement, which is key to a successful implementation. These key ingredients apply across the three stages of IS research: (a) pre‐implementation; (b) implementation; and (c) sustainment. A case example using a combination of IS models, PRISM (Practical, Robust Implementation and Sustainability model) and RE‐AIM (Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation, Maintenance), is included to describe how an IS study is designed and conducted. This case is a cluster‐randomized trial comparing two clinical decision support tools to improve guideline‐concordant prescribing for patients with heart failure and reduced ejection fraction. The review also includes information on the Standards for Reporting Implementation Studies (StaRI), which is used for literature review and reporting of IS studies, as well as IS‐related learning resources.
Exploring psychological distress and impulsivity as predictors of undergraduate problematic alcohol use
Authors: Maccombs‐Hunter Stephanie , Bhat Christine Suniti
Published: June 2022

The goal of this research was to explore psychological distress (i.e., depression, anxiety, and stress) and impulsivity as predictors of problematic alcohol use (PAU) among 481 undergraduate college students between the ages of 18 and 25. The results showed that only impulsivity was predictive of PAU. Controlling for other factors in the model, for every one‐unit increase in impulsivity score, the odds were 2.3 times greater that participants would engage in PAU. Implications for counselors and stakeholders are discussed.