bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ultrahigh Precision Angular Velocity Measurement using Frequency Shift of Partially Coherent Beams
Authors: Zhao Xuechun , Wang Zhuoyi , Lu Xingyuan , Zhang Hao , Zhu Junan , Gao Jianbo , Zhan Qiwen , Cai Yangjian , Zhao Chengliang
Published: June 2023

In the recent decade, the rotational Doppler effect has garnered considerable attention for stimulating the development of applications such as rotational Doppler velocity and topological charge measurements. Previous studies performed measurements under sources with one or multiple amplitude, phase, and polarization modulations. However, the applicability of these schemes is limited by the crucial factor of alignment between the source and object, especially if the magnitude of the source is greater than the object size. Therefore, this study proposes a partially coherent angular velocity measurement model that allows the rotational axes of targets to deviate from the source center and is even less susceptible to external jitters. Accordingly, a proof‐of‐principle experiment to determine the angular velocity under arbitrary alignment conditions is conducted. Tracing the rotational motion by rotating the coherent structure of the source results in a frequency shift—red shift for the same rotation and blue shift for a reverse rotation. The angular velocity vectors (both magnitude and direction) of two anisotropic sub‐Rayleigh objects are successfully measured with ultrahigh precision. The lowest angular velocity is 0.001 r s−1. The average relative error is less than 0.05% with sufficient sampling. Thus, the present findings can be applied to velocity metrology and micromanipulation.
Blood immune inflammatory indicators predict prognosis in patients with coronary artery disease
Authors: Liu Ju‐E , Zheng Shufen , Chen Kai , Wang Jing , Liu Xiaoqi , Lai Weihua , Zhu Qian , Wu Zhuoyi , Meng Jinxiu , Xia Shuang , Liu Yong , Zhong Shilong
Published: June 2023

Background

The relationship between the combined hematological parameters and echocardiography and long‐term prognosis in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) remains unclear.

Methods

We examined the ability of hematological parameters to predict all‐cause death and major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) based on Lasso Cox regression analysis. The significant predictors of hematological parameters from the Lasso Cox model were analyzed via multivariate Cox regression analysis and by adjusting for echocardiographic data. We calculated the continuous net reclassification improvement (cNRI) and integrated discrimination improvement (IDI) of the hematological parameters to assess the improvement in prediction.

Results

A low hemoglobin and lymphocyte ratio and high hematocrit, red blood cell distribution width‐coefficient of variation, and monocyte ratio significantly increased the risk of MACE and death in CAD patients. Neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio was associated with MACE but not death in CAD patients. After adjustment for echocardiographic parameters, hemoglobin, hematocrit, and lymphocyte ratio remained independently related to death and MACE. The addition of hematological and echocardiographic parameters to the Framingham risk score model significantly improved the area under the curve of mortality (0.794 vs. 0.713, p = 0.0007) and reclassification with cNRI of 30.6% (p = 0.002) and IDI of 0.055 (p < 0.001). Mendelian randomization analyses identified that fibrinogen and neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio were associated with increased brain natriuretic peptide and decreased left ventricular ejection fraction.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that the blood immune inflammatory indicators fibrinogen and neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio were causally associated with the risk of heart failure after CAD. The combination of hematological biomarkers and echocardiography parameters as predictor variables is a useful predictive tool for all‐cause mortality in patients with CAD.
Evaluation of the clinical effects of non‐invasive prenatal screening for diseases associated with aneuploidy and copy number variation
Authors: Zhu Shaohua , Jia Chunyang , Hao Shengju , Zhang Qinghua , He Jing , Wang Xing , Lin Pengwu , Guo Yuanyuan , Li Yigang , Feng Xuan
Published: June 2023

Background

To explore and compare the clinical effects of high‐resolution non‐invasive prenatal screening (NIPS‐Plus) for common/uncommon chromosomal aneuploidy and microdeletion/microduplication syndromes (MMS).

Methods

The current prospective study included a total of 25,380 pregnant women who performed NIPS‐Plus, and amniocentesis was performed on women with MMS with the screening results to diagnose patients with suspected MMS.

Results

There were 415 samples with positive results for NIPS‐Plus, included 275 with aneuploidy and 140 with MMS. After diagnosis by amniocentesis, 188 cases were confirmed as true positive, included46 cases of T21, 9 cases of T18, 1 case of T13, 34 cases of SCA, 41 cases of other chromosomal euploidy and 57 cases of MMS. In addition, no false negative cases were found, MMS was classified with 5 Mb with the cutoff value, and the PPV of different fragment size was counted, respectively.

Conclusion

We found that the corresponding PPV was 44.66% with the fragment of copy number variation (CNV) being less than or equal to 5 Mb, and when it was greater than 5 Mb, the PPV was 29.73%, which suggested that NIPS‐Plus was more suitable for screening the PPV of small fragment abnormalities. NIPS‐Plus has a good application effect in routine aneuploidy screening and had the best detection effect for T21; moreover, it performed well in screening of MMS and had better detection effect on MMS with CNV fragment length less than 5 Mb. Based on the current results, we suggested that NIPS‐Plus should be used as a comprehensive elementary prenatal screening method for all pregnant women, but for MMS caused by abnormal large fragment CNV, the detection method and efficiency still need to be improved.
From variant of unknown significance to likely pathogenic: Characterization and pathogenicity determination of a large genomic deletion in the MLH1 gene
Authors: Bouras Ahmed , Legrand Clementine , Kourda Jihen , Ruano Eric , Grand‐Masson Chloé , Lefol Cedrick , Wang Qing
Published: June 2023

Background

The MLH1 gene is one of the DNA mismatch repair genes (MMR), implicated in Lynch syndrome (LS), an autosomal dominant hereditary tumor susceptibility disease. The advent of next‐generation sequencing (NGS) technologies has accelerated the diagnosis of inherited diseases and increased the percentage of diagnosis of inherited cancers. However, some complex genomic alterations require the combination of several analytical strategies to allow correct biological interpretations. Here, we describe a novel MLH1 deletion and its pathogenicity determination in a patient suspected of LS.

Methods

The index case was a French 73‐year‐old man diagnosed with colorectal cancer displaying microsatellite instability and the loss of MLH1 and PMS2 expression. NGS analysis was used as the primary method for MMR genes screening. Long‐range PCR and reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) were used for breakpoints and pathogenicity determinations.

Results

A large genomic deletion was detected which removed the last six nucleotides of MLH1 exon 11 together with a large part of intron 11. It was initially considered as a variant of unknown significance (VUS). Genomic breakpoints were subsequently characterized defining the deletion as c.1033_1039‐248del. Further RNA analysis demonstrated that this variant activated a cryptic donor splice site at the 5′ of the breakpoint, leading to a premature truncated protein: p.Thr345Alafs*13.

Conclusion

Our finding suggested that although NGS technologies have increased variant detection yield, combined approaches were still needed for complex variant characterization and pathogenicity assessment.
Upcoming 988 first anniversary reveals progress, but more work still needed
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: June 2023

As the one‐year anniversary of the implementation of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline approaches, the field is celebrating the success of the crisis line's reach in helping millions of people experiencing a mental health and suicidal crisis. However, more work is needed, in particular, increased federal and state funding support to pay for needed investments in capacity, infrastructure and the workforce.
Report finds psychedelic helpline may avert harmful outcomes
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: June 2023

A resurgence of interest in the use of psychedelics for mental health and wellness has stimulated greater experimentation with psychedelics, according to new research that found a psychedelic helpline is helping to mitigate risk and offset the burden on emergency medical services.
USPSTF issues final screening recommendation for adult anxiety
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: June 2023

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force on June 20 issued final recommendations on screening for anxiety in adults. The recommendations represent the final version of the draft recommendation the task force issued last year (see “USPSTF proposes anxiety screening for all adults under 65 for first time,” MHW, Sept. 30, 2022; https://doi.org/10.1002/mhw.33387).
Composite tissue xenopreservation: Preliminary results of staged VCA in rat to mouse model
Authors: Zor Fatih , Kapaj Rezarta , Kulahci Yalcin , Karslioglu Yildirim , Gorantla Vijay S.
Published: June 2023

Background

The time between procurement and transplantation of composite tissues, especially regarding the limited donor pool, is a challenge effecting the outcomes of the transplantation. Current preservation techniques mainly include either cold preservation with a solution or machine perfusion using blood or certain oxygen‐carrying solutions. However, none enables preservation beyond 24 h. Increasing this time to several days will provide better usage of the donor pool, safer transplantation of VCA with significant muscle content, and gives time to stabilize a patient before long surgical procedures. Herein, we described a novel strategy of xenopreservation (preservation via xenotransplantation) to preserve composite tissues for 7 days, followed by staged transplantation.

Materials and Methods

We used two concordant species, female Sprague Dawley rats (n = 10) and female CF‐1 mice (n = 10) in this study. Four of pair of animals are used for anatomical study. The groin flap of the rat was used as a xenograft and xenotransplanted to the neck area of the carrier mouse. Cyclosporine (CsA) was administered used as immunosuppressant. After 7 days of preservation on the mouse neck, xenotransplanted groin flap (called xenopreserved flap) was re‐harvested, skin and vessels samples were collected for histopathological evaluation, and the xenopreserved flap was transplanted to the donor rat's opposite groin area. Anastomoses were performed between the flap's pedicle and the femoral vessels. Clinical observation regarding inflammation and tissue perfusion of the xenopreserved flap was monitored daily. Fifteen days after the second surgical procedure, the rats were euthanized, and skin and vessel samples were collected. Histologic evaluation, including inflammatory cell numbers, was performed. Wilcoxon test was used to compare the changes in inflammation severity and p < .05 was set for statistical significance.

Results

All xenopreserved groin flaps except one survived. Mean lymphocyte count before the second operation (at the end of the xenopreservation procedure) was 20,22 ± 0.44 and reduced to 13,14 ± 0.47 at the end of 15 days, and the difference was statistically significant (p < .05).

Conclusion

This proof‐of‐concept study with preliminary results showed that xenotransplantation might be a novel strategy for preservation of VCA for a certain period of time. However, additional translational studies are needed to modulate the tissue changes following xenopreservation.
Inertial‐like Bregman projection method for solving systems of variational inequalities
Authors: Olakunle Jolaoso Lateef , Pholasa Nattawut , Sunthrayuth Pongsakorn , Cholamjiak Prasit
Published: June 2023

In this paper, we propose aself‐adaptive inertial‐like algorithmwith Bregman distance for approximating a common solution of systems of variational inequalities for a class of monotone and Lipschitz continuous mappings in real reflexive Banach spaces. Our algorithm is constructed without using hybrid projection method and shrinking projection method, and its strong convergence is proved without the prior information of the Lipschitz constant of the mapping. Finally, we provide some numerical experiments to illustrate the performance of the newly proposed method including a comparison with related works in solving signal restoration problems.
Fractional Lotka–Volterra model with Holling type III functional response
Authors: Catalan‐Angeles Gabriel , Arciga‐Alejandre Martin P. , Sanchez‐Ortiz Jorge
Published: June 2023

In this paper, we study a generalization of a Lotka–Volterra system with Holling type III functional response, where the Caputo fractional derivative is considered. Applying a multistage homotopy perturbation method, we obtain an analytical solution for the system. Moreover, analyzing the eigenvalues of the Jacobian matrix around the equilibria, we find sufficient conditions in order to guarantee the local stability and we present several examples to illustrate the behavior of solutions.
Mathematical modelling of the mechanical response of geosynthetic‐reinforced and pile‐supported embankments
Authors: Mangraviti Viviana , Flessati Luca , di Prisco Claudio
Published: June 2023

Piled foundations are commonly employed to reduce settlements in artificial earth embankments founded on soft soil strata. To limit the number of piles and, consequently, construction costs, popular is the use of geosynthetic reinforcements laid at the embankment base. Nowadays, the complex interaction between geosynthetics, piles and soil is not yet fully understood and, in the scientific literature, simplified displacement‐based approaches to choose reinforcements, pile diameter and spacing are missing. In this paper, the authors, starting from the critical analysis and theoretical interpretation of finite difference numerical results, introduce a new mathematical model to rapidly assess both (i) differential/average settlements at the top of the embankment and (ii) maximum tensile forces in the basal reinforcement. The model, conceived to reproduce the response of a pile belonging to the central part of the embankment, is the result of an upscaling procedure based on a suitable sub‐structuring of the spatial domain (an axisymmetric unit cell) and on the concept of plane of equal settlements. For the foundation soil, drained conditions are considered, the pile skin roughness is disregarded, and piles are assumed to get the rigid bedrock. As generalised kinematic variables average and differential settlements are employed, whereas as generalized static ones the embankment height and the geosynthetic axial force. The model is validated against field measurements (where layered foundation soil and pile caps are included) and an application example of the model, used as a preliminary design tool in a displacement‐based perspective, is finally provided.
Unsafe doctor–nurse interactions in the process of implementing medical orders: A qualitative study
Authors: Asadi Monireh , Ahmadi Fazlollah , Mohammadi Easa , Vaismoradi Mojtaba
Published: June 2023

Aim

This study aimed to explore challenges faced by clinical nurses in the process of implementing medical orders.

Design

A qualitative study using inductive content analysis.

Methods

Semi‐structured individual interviews were carried out with 17 participants including nurses, nurse managers and medical doctors who were purposefully selected. The collected data underwent inductive qualitative content analysis.

Results

The main research finding was the category of ‘unsafe doctor–nurse interaction’. It included three subcategories: ‘conflicts in documenting and executing orders’, ‘not accepting the nurse's suggestions for writing and correcting orders’ and ‘failure to accept the responsibility of orders by the doctor’. Challenges in the professional relationship between doctors and nurses cause mistrust and conflict. They also enhance nurses' concerns about professional and legal issues in the workplace and endanger patient safety.
Association between disordered eating and clinical outcomes following a surgical or endoscopic bariatric procedure: A real‐world exploratory study
Authors: Spry Georgia , McIntosh Ashleigh , Gadd Nicola , Martin Zoe , Fear‐Keen Brianna , Hoult Jennifer , Maimone Isabella R. , Jones Patrice , Kelly Jaimon T , Marshall Skye
Published: June 2023

Problem

Disordered eating, such as binge, graze, and emotional eating, has been strongly linked to weight gain. Improved understanding of disordered eating by adults who elect bariatric weight loss procedures in a real‐world setting is required.

Purpose

To determine the association between the number and type of disordered eating patterns (DEPs), as described by healthcare professionals during routine care without standardized assessment, with clinical outcomes in adults who elected a bariatric weight loss procedure.

Method

An observational cohort study recruited laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) and endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG) patients. DEPs documented in the medical record during routine care were observed and tested for association with events (symptoms, side‐effects, or adverse events), micronutrient deficiencies, weight loss, and attrition. Data were observed up to 12‐month post‐procedure.

Results

215 LSG and 32 ESG patients were recruited. The mean number of DEPs was 6.4 (SD: 2.1) and 6.4 (SD: 2.1) in the LSG and ESG cohorts, respectively. Night eating was associated with a higher number of events (p < 0.008) in the LSG cohort, and non‐hungry eating was associated with a higher number of events in the ESG cohort (p < 0.001). ESG patients who had a surgical or medical event by 6‐months post‐procedure had mean 1.78 (95%CI: 0.67, 2.89) more DEPs (p = 0.004). DEPs were not associated with weight loss, micronutrient deficiencies, nor attrition.

Conclusion

The treating healthcare team believed the LSG and ESG patients experienced a wide variety and high frequency of DEPs requiring multidisciplinary support. Non‐hungry eating and night eating were associated with poorer outcomes following an LSG or ESG.

Trial registration

The study was prospectively registered with the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ACTRN12622000332729).
Biocomposites based on poly(lactic acid)/Aloe Vera/Priplast. Effects of UVA radiation on the crystallization
Authors: Nicácio Pedro , Albuquerque Ananda , Dantas Lorena , Siqueira Danilo , Ries Andreas , Wellen Renate
Published: June 2023

Biocomposites based on poly(lactic acid) (PLA), Aloe Vera (AV), and Priplast (Pr), were produced with AV and Pr levels of 5% and 10%, and submitted to UVA radiation for a time interval up to 28 days. Chemical changes were investigated using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and the thermal behavior was elucidated using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC); the non‐isothermal crystallization kinetics was modeled using the Pseudo‐Avrami model. FTIR spectra evidenced the formation of chromophore groups resulting from the photodegradation, which it was less intense in biocomposites with 10% Pr. AV addition promoted the cold crystallization, whereas the crystallization rate () displayed higher values for PLA/10%AV, with slight increases in the degree of crystallinity (Xc); while Pr addition decreased the Xc and of PLA, and protected it more intensely against the photodegradation effects. Pseudo‐Avrami model presented R2 ≥ 0.9909 and a low discrepancy between experimental and theoretical data, being adequate to describe the cold crystallization of PLA biocomposites. Summing up, AV and Pr addition protect PLA against the harmful effects of photodegradation, with AV subtly interfering in the crystalline parameters while Pr provides greater amorphicity to PLA biocomposites.
Defining the first bona fide cell model for SMARCA4‐deficient, undifferentiated tumor
Authors: Arenas Alberto M , Ruiz‐Jiménez José Manuel , López‐Hidalgo Javier L , Sanjuán‐Hidalgo Juan , Medina Pedro P
Published: June 2023

The World Health Organization's tumor classification guidelines are frequently updated and renewed as knowledge of cancer biology advances. For instance, in 2021, a novel lung tumor subtype named SMARCA4‐deficient, undifferentiated tumor (SMARCA4‐dUT, code 8044/3) was included. To date, there is no defined cell model for SMARCA4‐dUT that could be used to help thoracic clinicians and researchers in the study of this newly defined tumor type. As this tumor type was recently described, it is feasible that some cell models formerly classified as lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) could now be better classified as SMARCA4‐dUT. Thus, in this work, we aimed to identify a bona fide cell model for the experimental study of SMARCA4‐dUT. We compared the differential expression profiles of 36 LUAD‐annotated cell lines and 38 cell lines defined as rhabdoid in repositories. These comparative results were integrated with the mutation and expression profiles of the SWI/SNF complex members, and they were surveyed for the presence of the SMARCA4‐dUT markers SOX2, SALL4, and CD34, measured by RT‐qPCR and western blotting. Finally, the cell line with the paradigmatic SMARCA4‐dUT markers was engrafted into immunocompromised mice to assess the histological morphology of the formed tumors and compare them with those formed by a bona fide LUAD cancer cell line. NCI‐H522, formerly classified as LUAD, displayed expression profiles nearer to rhabdoid tumors than LUAD tumors. Furthermore, NCI‐H522 has most of the paradigmatic features of SMARCA4‐dUT: hemizygous inactivating mutation of SMARCA4, severe SMARCA2 downregulation, and high‐level expression of stem cell markers SOX2 and SALL4. In addition, the engrafted tumors of NCI‐H522 did not display a typical differentiated glandular structure as other bona fide LUAD cell lines (A549) do but had rather a largely undifferentiated morphology, characteristic of SMARCA4‐dUT. Thus, we propose the NCI‐H522 as the first bona fide cell line model of SMARCA4‐dUT. © 2023 The Authors. The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
Clinical features and outcome of retinoblastoma at the Vietnam National Cancer Hospital
Authors: Do Kien Hung , Pham Chau T. Minh , Do Thanh C. , Hoang Trang T. , Hoang Tuan A. , Nguyen Chu V. , Bui Giang V. , Ngo Lam L. , Van Nguyen Tai , Le Quang V.
Published: June 2023

Objectives

To characterize the clinical features, treatment, and outcome of children diagnosed with retinoblastoma (RB) at Vietnam National Cancer Hospital.

Methods

The study enrolled all RB patients newly diagnosed at Vietnam National Cancer Hospital from January 2018 to December 2022. The primary endpoint was overall survival (OS) and the eye salvage rate.

Results

In total, 139 patients were enrolled, 51.8% patients were male. Median age was 18.9 months. Most patients presented with leukocoria (63.3%), followed by strabismus (14.4%), and 43.9% had bilateral disease. Of 200 eyes, 129 (64.5%) were classified as group E. Extraocular extension was noted in 10 of 139 patients (7.2%). About one‐third of the patients lived more than 300 kilometers (km) away from these hospitals, and 17.3% of the patients belonged to minority groups, both of which were dominated by group E and extraocular or high‐risk eyes at the time of consultation. Primary enucleation was done for 57 eyes (28.5%), and 51 of 61 patients (83.6%) received eye salvage therapy in bilateral RB group. At study closure, 127 children were alive at the last follow‐up, 12 cases were confirmed dead. The 5‐year OS and progression‐free survival (PFS) rates were 90.3% and 85.9%, respectively. In particular, ethnic minority, distance to hospital more than 150 km, and extraocular disease were significantly associated with higher mortality among children with RB treated in Vietnam National Cancer Hospital.

Conclusions

There is a need to support for screening RB with early symptoms in grassroots medical facilities and raise awareness among patients' families through health education programs. Besides, caring and supporting treatment for patients from the ethnic minority and who live far from hospitals are also extremely necessary.
Effect of triaxial woven fabric on bending properties of unidirectional composites
Authors: Li Zhe , Li Wei
Published: June 2023

This study investigates the impact of incorporating a triaxial woven fabric (TWF) into a unidirectional ply structure on the bending performance of the structure. The failure processes of the different ply structures were recorded using video analysis and acoustic emission. The experimental results indicated that incorporating a layer of carbon fiber TWF between the second and third layers (GGTGG) or between the third and fourth layers (GGGTG) of the four‐layer unidirectional fabric significantly improved the flexural strengths by 79.5% and 213.7%, respectively, and the flexural toughness by 480.3% and 324.8%, respectively. In addition, the incorporation of TWF in the structure resulted in a shift in the overall failure mode from brittle to ductile. When the TWF was closer to the lower surface of the sample, the crack was more uniform and the distribution range was wider. In contrast when the TWF was in the middle, the range of cracks generated by the sample was narrower. However, some of these cracks affected the stability of the material structure. Furthermore, the damage process was confirmed using images of crack growth and acoustic emission during the destruction process. This study provides valuable insights into enhancing the bending performance of unidirectional fiber layup in the non‐load direction.
Study of the dynamic fragility of polymer nanocomposites: Correlation with damping
Authors: Charitos Ilias , Kontou Evagelia
Published: June 2023

In this work, an extensive study on the glass transition temperature (Tg), dynamic fragility and activation energy (Ea) for a variety polymeric nanocomposite materials, based on four different types of polymeric matrices reinforced with carbonaceous nanofillers, and SiO2 has been performed. Referring to the dynamic mechanical analysis data obtained in the author's previous works, the dynamic fragility and activation energy were calculated and examined. Depending on the polymeric type, different behavior was detected, as far as the fragility dependence on nanofiller type and loading is concerned, whereas the Tg variation was also investigated. A general trend of a decreasing dynamic fragility with increasing Tg was found, with the exception of Polylactic acid (PLA)/hybrid nanocomposites. A relation between nanofillers synergy and dynamic fragility variation has been achieved, namely the more homogenous nanofillers dispersion (and the synergistic effect between nanofillers), was associated with higher dynamic fragility values. Furthermore, the inter‐particle distance increment may lead to an increased fragility and the Resin/SiO2 nanocomposites appear to follow this rule. In addition, strain sweep experiments were conducted to analyze the connection between fragility and damping of the polymer nanocomposites. The PLA/hybrid carbonaceous nanocomposites reveal an essential damping enhancement, associated with fragility lowering.
Enhanced thermal properties of HDPE/EG nanocomposites via synergy of multi‐source pulsating flow and phase transition
Authors: Yin Xiaochun , Jiang Jinjin , He Guangjian , Feng Yanhong , Zhang Guizhen
Published: June 2023

A new melt mixing and in‐situ exfoliation method based on the synergy of multi‐source pulsating flow and phase transition (MSPFPT) was reported. The corresponding device was also developed, and the structure and mixing process of the mixer were introduced in detail. High‐density polyethylene (HDPE)/expanded graphite (EG) composites were prepared via this new mixer, and microstructure and thermal properties of the composites were comprehensively investigated. Morphological analyses demonstrate that MSPFPT method promotes the efficient exfoliation and uniform dispersion of EG. The well‐exfoliated EG layers form more thermal conductive paths in the composites prepared by MSPFPT, increasing thermal conductivity from 0.47 of pure HDPE to 1.16 W/(m·K) with 9 wt.% EG. The crystallinity degree of HDPE is increased by 11.1%. The increment of crystallinity reduces phonon scattering, which further confirms that MSPFPT method can significantly improve the thermal performance. The research provides a practical strategy for fabricating high‐performance composites filled with layered fillers.
Quality assessment method for Chinpi, dried Citrus spp. peel and its derived Kampo medicines using specific monoclonal antibody against hesperidin
Authors: Noguchi Kanta , Imahori Daisuke , Kido Yusuke , Nuntawong Poomraphie , Tanaka Hiroyuki , Morimoto Satoshi , Sakamoto Seiichi
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Hesperidin (hesperetin 7‐rutinoside, HP), a flavonoid glycoside found in Citrus unshiu Marcowicz or Citrus reticulata Blanco (Rutaceae), has been reported to exert a variety of pharmacological effects. As the efficacies and qualities of their dried peel, Chinpi and its derived Kampo medicines can be evaluated by their HP contents, a method for HP detection must be developed.

Objectives

To produce a specific monoclonal antibody against HP (mAb 5D12) to detect the HP contents in Japanese traditional medicines via indirect competitive enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (icELISA).

Method

BALB/c mice were immunised with many haptens of HP–bovine serum albumin (BSA) conjugates that were prepared using sodium periodate (NaIO4) to cause an immune response. In addition, conventional hybridoma techniques were utilised to generate mAb 5D12.

Results

The detection range of HP by the mAb 5D12‐based icELISA was 1.56–25.0 ng/mL, with a detection limit of 1.12 ng/mL. The maximum coefficient of variation, as evaluated from the intra‐ and inter‐assays, was <10.0%, and the percentages of recovery, as determined by the spike‐recovery tests, were 105%–115%. Moreover, the HP content, which was obtained from the developed icELISA, correlated well with that obtained via high‐performance liquid chromatography–ultraviolet (HPLC‐UV).

Conclusion

These validation analyses revealed that the established icELISA technique exhibited high precision and accuracy. Notably, this is the first report on the development of icELISA for the HP content‐based quality control of Chinpi and its derived Kampo medicines.
Synthesis of hydroxyl silane coupling agent and its application in preparation of silane‐modified polyurethane
Authors: Guo Zhiqiang , Shangguan Huimin , Liu Qianwei , Li Yinhe , Liu Xingjiang , Sun Ailing , Li Yuhan , Wei Liuhe
Published: June 2023

This study describes the synthesis of a hydroxyl silane coupling agent (HO‐silane) through a click reaction between SH in 3‐(trimethoxysilyl)propane‐1‐thiol (KH‐590) and CC in 2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA). This coupling agent was subsequently employed in the synthesis of silane‐modified polyurethane (SPU) resin which could be moisture‐cured at room temperature. The influence of r values (the molar ratio of NCO and OH) on the characteristics of SPU resins was investigated. These results reveal that an increase in the r value leads to a reduction in viscosity from 4.9 × 105 to 1.9 × 105 mPa·s, a rise in tensile strength from 0.88 to 0.98 Mpa followed by a decline to 0.69 MPa, and a reduction in extension at fracture from 236% to 94%. A SPU resin with a viscosity of approximately 3.6 × 105 mPa·s, tensile strength of 0.98 MPa, and elongation at break of 218% can be produced when the r value is 1.8. In addition, a silane‐modified polyurethane (MS) sealant with a tensile strength of 1.6 MPa in addition to elongation at break at 336% could be produced using the aforementioned SPU resin.
Telehealth in PM&R: Past, present, and future in clinical practice and opportunities for translational research
Authors: Tenforde Adam S. , Alexander Joshua J. , Alexander Marcalee , Annaswamy Thiru M. , Carr Conley J. , Chang Philip , Díaz Monique , Iaccarino Mary A. , Lewis Stephen B. , Millett Carolyn , Pandit Sindhu , Ramirez Claudia P. , Rinaldi Robert , Roop Megan , Slocum Chloe S. , Tekmyster Gene , Venesy Deborah , Verduzco‐Gutierrez Monica , Zorowitz Richard D. , Rowland Todd R.
Published: June 2023

Telehealth refers to the use of telecommunication devices and other forms of technology to provide services outside of the traditional in‐person health care delivery system. Growth in the use of telehealth creates new challenges and opportunities for implementation in clinical practice. The American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (AAPM&R) assembled an expert group to develop a white paper to examine telehealth innovation in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R). The resultant white paper summarizes how telehealth is best used in the field of PM&R while highlighting current knowledge deficits and technological limitations. The report identifies new and transformative opportunities for PM&R to advance translational research related to telehealth and enhance patient care.
Hypoglycemia in children and young adults with cystic fibrosis during oral glucose tolerance testing vs. continuous glucose monitoring
Authors: Finn Erin , Severn Cameron , Pyle Laura , Garrish Justin , Vigers Timothy , Behn Cecilia G. Diniz , Zeitler Philip S. , Sagel Scott D. , Nadeau Kristen J. , Chan Christine L.
Published: June 2023

Background

Hypoglycemia is common in people with cystic fibrosis (pwCF) during oral glucose tolerance tests (OGTTs) and in the free‐living setting, yet its pathophysiology remains unclear.

Objective

To evaluate hypoglycemia in children and young adults with CF by OGTT and continuous glucose monitoring (CGM).

Methods

A 3‐h OGTT was performed in children and young adults with CF and healthy controls (HC). Individuals were classified as experiencing hypoglycemia on OGTT (glucose <70 mg/dL) or not. Insulin, C‐peptide, glucose, glucagon, and incretins were measured. CGM was performed for 7 days in the free‐living setting. Measures of insulin sensitivity, beta cell function accounting for insulin sensitivity, and insulin clearance were calculated.

Results

A total of 57 participants (40 CF and 17 HC) underwent assessment. Rates of hypoglycemia by OGTT were similar in pwCF (53%, 21/40) compared to HC (35%, 6/17), p = 0.23. PwCF compared to HC had higher A1c; on OGTT higher and later glucose peaks, later insulin peaks; and on CGM more glucose variability. CF Hypo+ versus CF Hypo− had higher lung function, higher insulin sensitivity, higher beta cell function accounting for insulin sensitivity, and decreased CGM variability. When comparing CF Hypo+ to HC Hypo+, although rates of hypoglycemia are similar, pwCF had blunted glucagon responses to hypoglycemia. OGTT hypoglycemia was not associated with CGM hypoglycemia in any group.

Conclusion

Youth with CF have increased insulin sensitivity and impaired glucagon response to hypoglycemia on OGTT. Hypoglycemia on OGTT did not associate with free‐living hypoglycemia.
Patterns of early life somatic growth in infants and children with a history of chronic lung disease of prematurity
Authors: Aoyama Brianna C. , McGrath‐Morrow Sharon A. , Psoter Kevin J. , Collaco Joseph M.
Published: June 2023

Objective

Preterm infants, and especially those with additional comorbidities, are at risk of early life growth failure, which may impact postnatal lung growth and attainment of peak lung function. However, little is known about the early life growth patterns of those with chronic lung disease. The goal of this study was to describe the patterns appreciated in this population and their association with certain clinical characteristics.

Study Design

Demographic, clinical characteristics, and somatic growth parameters between birth and 3 years were retrospectively reviewed for a cohort of children (n = 616) recruited from an outpatient pulmonary clinic. Group‐based trajectory modeling was used to identify unique longitudinal trajectories for each growth parameter. Demographic and clinical characteristics were compared using nonparametric analysis.

Results

Four distinct trajectories were appreciated in all three somatic growth domains (weight, length, and weight‐for‐length), which demonstrated a sizable proportion of subjects with a z‐score below zero at 36 months of age, suggesting that the traditional preterm paradigm of “catch‐up” growth may not be accurate for this population.

Conclusions

Children with a history of chronic lung disease begin life with somatic growth measurements well below their term peers and display heterogeneous patterns of weight and length growth through the first 3 years of life. Future studies should focus on further understanding the relationship between somatic growth and respiratory outcomes in this population, which will ideally allow for the use of somatic growth measures as surrogate markers to identify individuals at the highest risk of postnatal growth failure and poor respiratory outcomes.
Functional outcome after radical prostatectomy in 1313 patients: A single‐center study
Authors: Haeuser Lorine , Tully Karl H. , Reicherz Alina , Berg Sebastian , Moritz Rudolf , Roghmann Florian , Noldus Joachim , Palisaar Rein‐Jüri
Published: June 2023

Objectives

To assess the impact of urinary continence and erectile function on the quality of life in men undergoing radical prostatectomy (RP) for prostate cancer (PC), we analyzed the preoperative and 1‐year postoperative outcomes of five functional domains and their influencing factors.

Patients and Methods

In this prospective study, all patients undergoing open or robot‐assisted RP between Febuary 2017 and March 2020 in a single academic center were included. Patient‐reported outcomes were assessed pre‐ and 12 months postoperatively using the Expanded Prostate Index Composite (EPIC‐26) survey, evaluating continence, irritative/obstructive micturition, gastrointestinal symptoms, sexuality, and overall vitality. We examined the impact of RP on sexual function and urinary continence using multivariable logistic regression models, accounting for patient and tumor characteristics.

Results

Overall, 1313 consecutive patients gave consent for study participation and completed both surveys. The median age was 66 years (IQR: 60−70). The majority of patients (n = 601, 46%) had an intermediate risk PC. Robotic RP was performed in 71.6% and nerve‐sparing technique in 81% of the cases. The median pre‐ versus postoperative scores were the following: urinary continence 100 (IQR: 91.8−100) versus 85.5 (64.8−100), irritative micturition 87.5 (IQR: 75−100) versus 93.8 (IQR: 87.5−100), gastrointestinal symptoms the same with 100 (IQR: 95.8−100), vitality 95 (IQR: 80−100) versus 90 (IQR: 75−100), and erectile function 65.3 (IQR: 38.8−87.5) versus 22.2 (IQR: 12.5−48.7), respectively. Age (p < 0.001), risk classification (p = 0.002), and nerve‐sparing surgery (p = 0.016) were associated with good sexual function (EPIC‐26 score ≥60), while only age (p = 0.001) was statistically significantly associated with good urinary continence (EPIC‐26 score ≥80).

Conclusion

Non‐modifiable factors such as age and PC risk classification impact urinary continence and sexual function after RP. Nevertheless, urologic surgeons should further focus on improving nerve‐sparing techniques, the only modifiable variable, to reduce the surgery's negative impact on urinary continence and sexual function.
Influence of the opening pressure of explosion‐venting surface on methane deflagration characteristics in municipal sewage confined spaces
Authors: Lv Pengfei , Li Tiannan , Zhang Yu , Pang Lei , Yang Kai
Published: June 2023

This study investigates the influence of the opening pressure of the explosion‐venting surface (EVS) of a vertical branch pipeline on the deflagration characteristics of methane at different concentrations. The results indicate that the increase in the opening pressure of the EVS promotes the accumulation of deflagration pressure in the horizontal pipeline, whereas the venting effect in the vertical branch pipeline attenuates the peak value of the deflagration pressure. The vertical branch pipeline has both “promoting” and “inhibiting” effects on the flame propagation speed in the horizontal pipeline. With an increase in the methane concentration and opening pressure of the EVS, the promoting effect gradually plays a dominant role, resulting in an increase in the flame propagation speed. In actual industrial production and daily life, in order to avoid explosion hazards, it is essential to install EVSs or reduce their opening pressure in a confined space.
Hole Injection Characteristics and Annealing Temperature Dependence for Organic Light‐Emitting Diodes Using Spontaneous Polarization
Authors: Fukazawa Ryosuke , Maegawa Yoshiki , Morimoto Masahiro , Matsubara Ryosuke , Kubono Atsushi , Naka Shigeki
Published: June 2023

An efficient carrier injection at the electrode/organic semiconductor interface of organic light‐emitting diodes (OLEDs) is challenging. It is well‐known that an electric dipole at the electrode/semiconductor interface improves the carrier injection from the electrode because of a vacuum‐level shift. In this study, poly (vinylidene fluoride‐trifluoroethylene) [P(VDF/TrFE)] is used as a polar polymer with spontaneous polarization. P(VDF/TrFE) is spin‐coated on an indium tin oxide (ITO) electrode surface as a hole injection layer for OLEDs. The P(VDF/TrFE) layer enhances the hole injection from the ITO electrode by causing a vacuum‐level shift. As a result, the device driving voltage can be lowered. In addition, annealing temperature dependence is observed. To investigate the origin of the hole injection effect, the P(VDF/TrFE)‐layered ITO surface and the thin film structure of the P(VDF/TrFE) layer are measured. The P(VDF/TrFE) layers at different annealing temperatures show no difference in surface properties but show significant differences in the thin film structure. The hole injection of OLEDs is significantly enhanced because of the structural change in ultrathin P(VDF/TrFE) layer.
High‐Performance Self‐Assembled ZnO Nanowrinkle Network Structured Photodetectors
Authors: Choi Jongyun , Lee Gun-Woo , Lee Sung-Nam
Published: June 2023

Herein, the effect of prebake temperature on the surface structure of zinc oxide (ZnO) nanowrinkle structures formed in a sol–gel growth process for UV photodetection is demonstrated. The sol–gel solutions are spin‐coated on glass and c‐plane sapphire substrates, and the resulting ZnO films are subjected to prebake and crystallization processes at 800 °C for an hour. In the sol–gel process, the prebake process is crucial in forming the nanowrinkle structure on the surface of the ZnO film. The maximum nanowrinkle structure of ZnO film is achieved at the prebake temperature of 150 °C. In addition to the formation of the optimized nanowrinkle structure, the UV response of the photodetector is further enhanced through the prebake temperature control. The nanowrinkle network structure significantly improves the optical absorbance and photoluminescence characteristics of the ZnO film, leading to high photocurrent, photoresponsivity, and external quantum efficiency for UV light. The results demonstrate the potential of sol–gel‐derived ZnO photodetectors with nanowrinkle network structures for UV sensing applications.
The Effects of Alloying Elements on the Bonding Strength of Diamond/Carbide/Cu Interface Based on First‐Principles Calculations
Authors: Cao Yu-xuan , Wu Mao , Fang Yuan , Qian Ping , Zhang Lin , Qu Xuan-hui
Published: June 2023

The effects of different alloying elements (Ti, Zr) on the bonding strength of the diamond (111)/carbide (111)/Cu (111) interface system have been systematically investigated by means of first‐principles calculations based on density functional theory. It is found that the metal (Ti, Zr)‐terminated carbide is more likely to participate in the formation of the carbide (111)/Cu (111) and carbide (111)/diamond (111) interface. However, the C‐terminated carbide (111) interfaces have higher bonding strength compared with the metal (Ti, Zr)‐terminated carbide interfaces. In the Cu/carbide/diamond interface system, the bonding strength of carbide/Cu interface is lower than that of the carbide/diamond interface, which means the Cu/carbide/diamond interface failure first occurs in the carbide/Cu interface. According to the charge density, the stronger charge interaction between Zr and Cu causes higher bonding strength of ZrC/Cu interface compared with TiC/Cu interface. Therefore, the Cu/ZrC/diamond interface has higher bonding strength compared with the Cu/TiC/diamond interface. The Csp (carbide)–Csp (diamond) covalent bond and the metal (Ti3d, Zr4d)–Csp (diamond) covalent bond are formed at the diamond/carbide interface, while the Cu3d–Csp (carbide) covalent bond and the metal (Ti3d, Zr4d)–Cu3d metallic bond are formed at the Cu/carbide interface.
Micro‐ and Nano‐Raman Spectroscopy Characterization of Exfoliated Graphene with Helium‐Ion Microscope Patterned Line Defects
Authors: Rabelo Cassiano , Vasconcelos Thiago L. , Archanjo Braulio S. , Cançado Luiz Gustavo , Jorio Ado
Published: June 2023

Material´s patterned modifications are crucial for device fabrication, and their evolution from the micro‐ to the nanoscale depends on the development of modification and characterization techniques. Herein, a graphene sample cut by a He‐ion beam is characterized using Raman spectroscopy. What can be obtained from micro‐Raman spectroscopy as compared to nano‐Raman spectroscopy is analyzed, the latter implemented in the tip‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy (TERS) configuration. Local sputtering, inhomogeneous distributions of defects, strain and doping are only observed in the higher‐resolution nano‐Raman‐mode characterization.
Enhancing communication strategies in controlling neglected tropical diseases in Nigeria
Authors: Durojaye Aishat Bisoye , Adedeji Oluwakorede Joshua , Egbewande Oluwaseyi Muyiwa , Ibrahim Aishat Abiodun , Sampson‐Oladipupo Eniola , Yusuf Rashidat Onyinoyi , Babatunde Yusuf
Published: June 2023

Neglected tropical diseases (NTD), a broad set of infectious diseases prevalent in tropical and subtropical environments, are widely known to affect individuals with limited resources in underserved communities. Nigeria is one of the countries with the highest cases of NTD, with an estimated 100 million people in the country at risk for at least one NTD. In Nigeria, the NTD master plan recognizes behavioural change communication as an important part of its strategy for reducing the burden of NTDs. Behavioural change communication has been proven to be significant in preventing and reducing infection, spread and re‐infection of diseases. However, poor communication strategies, lack of funds and human resources and lack of training on how to deliver behavioural change interventions are major challenges. Enhancing communication strategies will significantly help increase attention towards NTD prevention methods and acceptance of treatment interventions. It is also important to ensure that healthcare professionals are provided with adequate skills in the delivery of behavioural change interventions in the communities. This article reviews the activities to enhance communication strategies in the context settings of Nigeria.