bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fabrication and characteristic of 3‐D porous thermoplastic polyurethane/deacetylated cellulose acetate composite foam with outstanding mechanical property and oil/water separation performance
Authors: Cui Zhixiang , Fan Yue , Liu Xiaolong , Si Junhui , Wang Qianting
Published: March 2022

Nowadays, the environmental problems caused by industrial oily wastewater and offshore oil leakage are becoming more and more serious. Here, the 3‐D porous polyurethane/deacetylated acetate cellulose (TPU/d‐CA) composite foam with outstanding mechanical property and oil/water separation performance was successfully prepared. The morphology, wettability, mechanical properties, and oil/water separation performances had been systematically studied. The results showed that TPU/d‐CA composite foam could be used as water and oil removing material, respectively, for a series of oil/water mixture only under gravity force, due to its lipophilicity and hydrophilicity. It has high‐separation flux, which can reach up to 43,000 L/m2·h and 85,000 L/m2·h for water and oil, respectively and all the separation efficiency exceeds 98%. It also can be used as adsorbent material to absorb various oils, and the absorption capacity for carbon tetrachloride reached up to 34 g/g. Moreover, it can selectively, rapidly, and continuously separate oil or water by assisted peristaltic pump. After 15 cycle times, its separation efficiency is still as high as 98%. It has excellent comprehensive mechanical properties and antifouling ability. These results indicated that 3‐D TPU/d‐CA composite foam has broadly application prospects in oil/water separation field.
Activity‐Based Fluorescent Probes for Sensing and Imaging of Reactive Carbonyl Species (RCSs)
Authors: Jana Anal , Baruah Mousumi , Samanta Animesh
Published: March 2022

This review explains various strategies for developing fluorescent probes to detect reactive carbonyl species (RCS). There are several mono and diacarbonyls among 30 varieties of reactive carbonyl species (RCSs) so far discovered, which play pivotal roles in pathological processes such as cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, cardiovascular disease, renal failure, and diabetes mellitus. These RCSs play essential roles in maintaining ion channel regulation, cellular signaling pathways, and metabolisms. Among RCSs, carbon monoxide (CO) is also utilized for its cardioprotective, anti‐inflammatory, and anti‐apoptotic effects. Fluorescence‐based non‐invasive optical tools have come out as one of the promising methods for analyzing the concentrations and co‐localizations of these small metabolites. There has been a tremendous eruption in developing fluorescent probes for selective detection of specific RCSs within cellular and aqueous environments due to their high sensitivity, high spatial and temporal resolution of fluorescence imaging. Fluorescence‐based sensing mechanisms such as intramolecular charge transfer (ICT), photoinduced electron transfer (PeT), excited‐state intramolecular proton transfer (ESIPT), and fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) are described. In particular, probes for dicarbonyls such as methylglyoxal (MGO), malondialdehyde (MDA), along with monocarbonyls that include formaldehyde (FA), carbon monoxide (CO) and phosgene are discussed. One of the most exciting advances in this review is the summary of fluorescent probes of dicarbonyl compounds.
KinesioTaping after botulinum toxin type A for cervical dystonia in adult patients
Authors: Dec‐Ćwiek Małgorzata , Porębska Karolina , Sawczyńska Katarzyna , Kubala Marcin , Witkowska Magdalena , Zmijewska Kinga , Antczak Jakub , Pera Joanna
Published: March 2022

Introduction

Studies explored physiotherapeutic approaches in cervical dystonia (CD) patients with or without botulinum toxin (BoNT) injections, however the results are varying. There are no clinical trials investigating the effects of kinesiology taping in CD patients. The objective of this study is to investigate the efficacy of kinesiology taping as an adjunct to the BoNT injections in patients with CD.

Methods

Twenty‐five patients were enrolled to the study. Patients were randomly assigned to the experimental 1 (BoNT + KinesioTaping), experimental 2 (BoNT + ShamTaping) or control (BoNT) treatment. After 12 weeks they were moved to the next experimental group and finally every patient received all 3 proposed treatment options. The severity of CD was quantified with the Toronto Western Spasmodic Torticollis Rating Scale (TWSTRS) including Torticollis severity, Disability, and Pain scales. Quality of life was evaluated using Craniocervical dystonia questionnaire (CDQ4).

Results

In all treatment groups, there was a significant improvement in dystonia symptoms measured with TWSTRS (total score) after BoNT injection regardless of the allocation to the experimental treatment (p < .05). ANOVA analysis revealed no differences in any of the TWSTRS variables after the intervention. Quality of life was significantly improved after application of taping (p < .05, p = .03).

Conclusions

Application of KinesioTaping after BoNT injection provided no additional effect on the severity of dystonia, although the quality of life was improved in patients with CD. Further research investigating the effect of KinesioTaping prior to BoNT injection is required.
Exploring the facilitating and obstructing factors of using virtual reality for 5S training: An exploratory qualitative study from students' perspectives in an industrial engineering undergraduate course
Authors: Kwok Alex Pak Ki , Yan Mian , Deng Xin Hai , Chen Xiao Yu , Huang Ying Ting
Published: March 2022

Virtual reality (VR) learning is still a new challenge in the e‐learning domain. This paper is one of the early studies bringing forward the concept of learning 5S principles (a core technique in Industrial Engineering) using VR and performed an exploratory qualitative study in an undergraduate course to discover factors that would facilitate or hinder students from accepting this idea—learning 5S principles using VR. Four factors and 14 subfactors were identified based on 47 valid responses. They were human attributes, human–machine interaction, technology characteristics, and training contents. The results should help teachers, schools, VR device manufacturers to understand the benefits and challenges of teaching 5S principles using VR.
Review and Meta‐Analysis: SARS‐CoV‐2 and Enveloped Virus Detection in Feces and Wastewater
Authors: Twigg Charlotte , Wenk Jannis
Published: March 2022

Detection and quantification of viruses supplies key information on their spread and allows risk assessment for public health. In wastewater, existing detection methods have been focusing on non‐enveloped enteric viruses due to enveloped virus transmission, such as coronaviruses, by the fecal‐oral route being less likely. Since the beginning of the SARS‐CoV‐2 pandemic, interest and importance of enveloped virus detection in wastewater has increased. Here, quantitative studies on SARS‐CoV‐2 occurrence in feces and raw wastewater and other enveloped viruses via quantitative real‐time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qPCR) during the early stage of the pandemic until April 2021 are reviewed, including statistical evaluation of the positive detection rate and efficiency throughout the detection process involving concentration, extraction, and amplification stages. Optimized and aligned sampling protocols and concentration methods for enveloped viruses, along with SARS‐CoV‐2 surrogates, in wastewater environments may improve low and variable recovery rates providing increased detection efficiency and comparable data on viral load measured across different studies.
Making Positive Choices: A framework for treatment
Authors: Laptook Rebecca
Published: March 2022

What does the treatment for a nine‐year‐old diagnosed with encopresis, a 10‐year‐old with conversion disorder, a 12‐year‐old with somatic symptom disorder with predominant pain, a 14‐year‐old with anorexia, and a 16‐year‐old with type I diabetes and anxiety have in common? These diagnostic presentations are among the most frequent presenting problems treated at the Hasbro Children's Partial Hospital Program (HCPHP). The HCPHP is a day treatment program for children and adolescents struggling with both medical and emotional health issues. Despite the diversity of diagnoses and the variety of symptoms, a common thread of the treatment framework at the HCPHP is the theme of “Making Positive Choices.” What does it mean to make a positive choice? At the HCPHP, kids and teens learn about making positive choices with their thoughts and making positive choices with their actions.
‘The Myth of Weight Neutrality’ — A review on the effects of long‐term SSRI use on weight
Authors: Armaiz‐Flores Sara
Published: March 2022

As responsible providers, we always obtain “informed consent” from patients and families prior to initiating a new medication. Informed consent refers to discussing the indications, benefits, risks, contraindications, and side effect profiles of medications. It can be uncomfortable for patients to hear a long list of adverse effects for medications that we, as their providers, are actually recommending to alleviate, not add to, the patient's symptoms. Much like other pharmaco‐active compounds, psychiatric medications have a long list of side effects grouped by organ system, some of which seem to cause more apprehension than others. One of the side effects that is most concerning to patients and their families is weight gain. Why this side effect seems to “weigh more heavily” on patients' minds is likely a reflection of current beauty standards, and the association among millennials/boomers between weight and other values including morality, inner strength, discipline, and overall health.
Wie Smart Maintenance durch die nächste Krise hilft
Authors: Heller Thomas , Gawlik Olivia
Published: March 2022

Unvorhersehbare Katastrophen haben auch auf Industriebetriebe erhebliche Auswirkungen. Um mehr Resilienz zu erreichen und im Krisenfall resistenter zu sein, ist die umfassende Digitalisierung in einem Smart Maintenance‐Konzept ein möglicher weg.
Sicherer Shutdown in der Krise
Authors: Karsten Kuno
Published: March 2022

Betreiberpflichten wie Prüf‐ und Wartungsarbeiten gelten auch dann, wenn eine Anlage nicht im Betrieb ist. Denn die Betreiberverantwortung hört auch im Shutdown nicht auf.
Mit modularen Pumpen wirtschaftlicher arbeiten
Authors: Steinbach Cynthia , Zeiff Andreas
Published: March 2022

Trotz der Vielfalt der zu pumpenden Stoffe in der Seifenfertigung reichen nur drei universell einsetzbare Förderpumpen und wenige Motorenmodelle aus. Der modulare Aufbau ermöglicht es, immer dem zu fördernden Gut gerecht zu werden. Wartungsaufwand, Ersatzteillager und nicht zuletzt der Verwaltungsaufwand reduzieren sich deutlich.
Development of energy evaluation system during manual operation using train simulator
Authors: Watanabe Shoichiro , Hasegawa Tomonori , Yamaguchi Daisuke , Oshitate Takashi
Published: March 2022

The electric railway is an environment‐friendly transportation system. An energy‐saving operation with a low cost and high energy‐saving efficiency is often considered to further decrease energy consumption. An Automatic Train Operation (ATO) system has the advantage of energy‐saving because a train can be controlled by an on‐board computer. However, many railway lines are still being operated by drivers and controlled via manual operation in addition, energy managements often become difficult for drivers and operators. Therefore, a study of energy‐saving manual operation is desired. Energy verification of a manual operation is difficult because an adequate experiment has several constraints and trial periods are limited. Moreover, it requires a considerable amount of time and effort. In this study, an energy evaluation system is developed to calculate the energy consumed by a train when a driver manually operates it through adding an advanced calculation device to a conventional railway simulator. Consequently, the evaluation system contributes to carry out simple experiments with a short duration.
Renal effects of guideline‐directed medical therapies in heart failure: a consensus document from the Heart Failure Association of the European Society of Cardiology
Authors: Mullens Wilfried , Martens Pieter , Testani Jeffrey M. , Tang W.H. Wilson , Skouri Hadi , Verbrugge Frederik H. , Fudim Marat , Iacoviello Massimo , Franke Jennifer , Flammer Andreas J. , Palazzuoli Alberto , Barragan Paola Morejon , Thum Thomas , Marcos Marta Cobo , Miró Òscar , Rossignol Patrick , Metra Marco , Lassus Johan , Orso Francesco , Jankowska Ewa A. , Chioncel Ovidiu , Milicic Davor , Hill Loreena , Seferovic Petar , Rosano Giuseppe , Coats Andrew , Damman Kevin
Published: March 2022

Novel pharmacologic treatment options reduce mortality and morbidity in a cost‐effective manner in patients with heart failure (HF). Undisputedly, the effective implementation of these agents is an essential element of good clinical practice, which is endorsed by the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) guidelines on acute and chronic HF. Yet, physicians struggle to implement these therapies as they have to balance the true and/or perceived risks versus their substantial benefits in clinical practice. Any worsening of biomarkers of renal function is often perceived as being disadvantageous and is in clinical practice one of the most common reasons for ineffective drug implementation. However, even in this context, they clearly reduce mortality and morbidity in HF with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) patients, even in patients with poor renal function. Furthermore these agents are also beneficial in HF with mildly reduced ejection fraction (HFmrEF) and sodium–glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors more recently demonstrated a beneficial effect in HF with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). The emerge of several new classes (angiotensin receptor–neprilysin inhibitor [ARNI], SGLT2 inhibitors, vericiguat, omecamtiv mecarbil) and the recommendation by the 2021 ESC guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of acute and chronic HF of early initiation and titration of quadruple disease‐modifying therapies (ARNI/angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitor + beta‐blocker + mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist and SGLT2 inhibitor) in HFrEF increases the likelihood of treatment‐induced changes in renal function. This may be (incorrectly) perceived as deleterious, resulting in inertia of starting and uptitrating these lifesaving therapies. Therefore, the objective of this consensus document is to provide advice of the effect HF drugs on renal function.
Gene fusions in gastrointestinal tract cancers
Authors: Rahi Hamed , Olave Maria C. , Fritchie Karen J. , Greipp Patricia T. , Halling Kevin C. , Kipp Benjamin R. , Graham Rondell P.
Published: March 2022

Fusion genes have been identified in a wide array of human neoplasms including hematologic and solid tumors, including gastrointestinal tract neoplasia. A fusion gene is the product of parts of two genes that are joined together following a deletion, translocation, or chromosomal inversion. Together with single nucleotide variants, insertions, deletions, and amplification, fusion genes represent one of the key genomic mechanisms for tumor development. Detecting fusions in the clinic is accomplished by a variety of techniques including break‐apart fluorescence in situ hybridization, reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction, and next‐generation sequencing. Some recurrent gene fusions have been successfully targeted by small molecule or monoclonal antibody therapies (ie targeted therapies), while others are used as biomarkers for diagnostic and prognostic purposes. The purpose of this review article is to discuss the clinical utility of detection of gene fusions in carcinomas and neoplasms arising primarily in the digestive system.
Experimental study of convective heat transfer coefficient for pulsed fluidized bed using microcapsule phase change material
Authors: Keshavarz Mahmood , Assari Mohammad Reza , Basirat Tabrizi Hassan
Published: March 2022

The convective heat transfer coefficient in a pulsating cylindrical fluidized bed using microcapsule particle‐phase change material (MPCM) was examined experimentally. A solenoid on and off valve was used to provide the pulsation and was varied from 1 to 10 Hz. The test section in the bed was loaded with granular microparticle‐phase change material (MPCM) with an average diameter of 200 µm. The pulsation effect on the thermal field, thermal storage, and heat transfer coefficient was investigated for 1.5, 2, and 2.5 of minimum fluidization velocity. Results indicated that the amplitude of the oscillation decreases with increasing in pulsation frequency. An increase in heat transfer rate was shown to be related to the superficial velocity. The maximum performance was obtained for the frequency of 7 Hz at the velocity ratio of 2.5. The convective heat transfer increased by 17% for frequency pulsation of 7 Hz. Furthermore, the Duty cycle (η) is defined as the ratio of turn‐on duration to the total turn‐on and off duration for entering airflow to the solenoid valve. It was shown that the η > 0.4 led to better mixing and higher heat transfer. However, the pulsation effect was shown to disappear for the duty cycle of higher than 0.8. Comparison with the available experimental data of others for continuous flow was in good agreement.
Cranberry proanthocyanidins composite electrospun nanofibers as a potential alternative for bacterial entrapment applications
Authors: Urena‐Saborio Hilary , Alfaro‐Viquez Emilia , Esquivel‐Alvarado Daniel , Madrigal‐Carballo Sergio , Krueger Christian G. , Reed Jess D. , Gunasekaran Sundaram
Published: March 2022

The interaction between A‐type interflavan bonds from cranberry proanthocyanidins (PAC) and surface virulence factors of extra‐intestinal pathogenic Escherichia coli (ExPEC) was studied. Electrospun nanofibers (ESNF) were fabricated using PAC and polycaprolactone (PCL) solutions and their physical and chemical properties were characterized. The ability of PAC:PCL composite ESNF to interact with and entrap ExPEC strain 5011 (ExPEC‐5011) was evaluated in vitro by plate culturing and when formulated as a biofilter and nanocoating. As a biofilter, the PAC:PCL ESNF exhibited a dose‐dependent ability to entrap ExPEC‐5011. Images from scanning electron and fluorescent microscopies revealed that ESNF sections with higher amounts of PAC led to higher bacterial entrapment. The effectiveness PAC:PCL ESNF to bind ExPEC when applied as a nanocoating was studied using ESNF‐coated polyvinyl chloride intermittent catheter. Results indicate that ExPEC‐5011 was entrapped well into the PAC:PCL ESNF coating on the catheter. Overall, our results suggest that incorporating the biomolecule PAC in ESNF is a potential means for applications requiring bacterial entrapment, such as biofunctionalization, biofiltration, and surface coating, among others.
Involvement of NF‐κB/PI3K/AKT signaling pathway in the protective effect of prunetin against a diethylnitrosamine induced hepatocellular carcinogenesis in rats
Authors: Li Guanghua , Qi Li , Chen Hui , Tian Gendong
Published: March 2022

Prunetin (PRU) is an O‐methylated flavonoid that is present in various natural plants and a primary significant compound found in isoflavone. Liver cancer creates major carcinogenic death despite recently advanced therapies. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) treatment and prognosis are better in people with secure liver function. In the present study, we evaluated the action of PRU on diethylnitrosamine (DEN) alone HCC in a rat model through inflammation‐mediated cell proliferative phosphoinositide 3‐kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/AKT) pathway analysis. Male Wistar rats were divided into four groups of six rats each. Group I, normal rats; Group II, DEN alone; Group III, DEN + PRU, and Group IV, PRU‐alone. All groups of rats carried out hepatic cancer development by hypothesis antioxidant, biochemical, cell proliferative, apoptosis, cytokines protein, and gene expression status profiles. In tumor incidence DEN + PRU, 100% delayed the tumor growth disappearance of the lesion,  and reversal of normal liver architecture was observed. Liver marker enzymes levels decreased when antioxidant levels (superoxidase dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, and glutathione reductase) were in Group III. Proinflammatory markers nuclear factor‐κB, interleukin (IL)‐6, IL‐1β, and tumor necrosis factor α, were elevated in the rat's serum in Group III. Cell proliferative markers proliferating cell nuclear antigen and Cyclin‐D1 protein expressions were downregulated; in contrast, Bcl‐2, Bax, caspase‐3, and caspase‐9 gene expressions were upregulated and then it followed that protein expression of PI3K/AKT was downregulated in PRU‐treated groups. PRU assisted reversal of liver damage, antioxidant enzyme restoration cytokine balance, protein, and gene expression to control levels. Taken together, PRU improves functions of the liver, and as such prevents HCC. PRU can be used together with chemopreventives for HCC.
Cumulative impact neglect in processing sequential changes
Authors: Gunasti Kunter , Chen Haipeng (Allan)
Published: March 2022

We demonstrate that decision contexts that involve sequential numerical changes over time can lead to suboptimal consumer choices in both incentivized and hypothetical studies. This is because, for such changes, an earlier outcome has a cumulative effect on the final total, which consumers tend to ignore. We document the prevalence of consumers' tendency to neglect this cumulative impact when processing sequential rent increases and price discounts as consumers focus on the naïve totals and trends formed by the consecutive price changes and choose economically inferior options. We propose a nudge that helps alert consumers about the cumulative effects and decrease their tendency to fall prey to this bias. We discuss the theoretical contributions as well as the implications for consumers, managers, and policymakers.
Fibroadipogenic progenitor cell response peaks prior to progressive fatty infiltration after rotator cuff tendon tear
Authors: Sahai Amil , Jones Derek L. , Hughes Marcus , Pu Alex , Williams Katrina , Iyer Shama R. , Rathinam Chozha , Davis Derik L. , Lovering Richard M. , Gilotra Mohit N.
Published: March 2022

Fibroadipogenic progenitor (FAP) cells are implicated as a major source of fatty infiltration (FI) in murine rotator cuff (RC) injury, but FAP cell response after RC tear in a rabbit model is unknown. This study determined whether changes in FAP cell count after an RC tear predate muscle degeneration in a clinically relevant rabbit model. We hypothesized increases in FAP cell count correlate temporally with RC degeneration. New Zealand white rabbits (n = 26) were evaluated at 1, 2, 4, and 6 weeks after unilateral full‐thickness tenotomy of supraspinatus and infraspinatus tendons. FI area and adipocyte size were histologically analyzed, muscle density was measured by computerized tomography, and quantification of FAP cells was measured by flow cytometry and immunohistochemistry. The percentage of intrafascicular adipocyte area increased over time in supraspinatus muscle samples (p = 0.03), significantly between 1‐ and 6‐week samples (p = 0.04). There were no differences in perifascicular adipocyte area percentages between time points. Peak increase in FAP cell count occurred at 1‐week (p = 0.03), with a decrease in the following weeks. There was a negative correlation between supraspinatus adipocyte area and FAP cell count (p < 0.05). On computed tomography (CT) scan, maximal decrease in muscle density was observed in the 4th to 6th weeks. In summary, FAP cell response occurred early after tenotomy and did not correlate temporally with increases in FI. This suggests that FAP cell response may predate degenerative changes, and early targeting of FAPs before adipocyte maturation could blunt FI after RC tear.
Clinical evaluation of Er,Cr:YSGG laser therapy used as an adjunct to non‐surgical treatment of periodontitis: Twelve‐month results from a pilot study
Authors: Klokkevold Perry R. , Damian Arianna , Pham Charlene , Mallya Sanjay M. , Lux Renate
Published: March 2022

Background

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the results of adjunctive Er,Cr:YSGG laser therapy with scaling and root planing (SRP) as compared with SRP alone in the treatment of moderate to severe periodontitis.

Methods

Fifteen adults (aged 27 to 65 years) with 90 nonadjacent sites probing ≥ 5 mm were treated in split‐mouth design with SRP and laser therapy versus SRP alone. Probing pocket depth (PPD), gingival recession (GR), clinical attachment level (CAL), plaque, and bleeding on probing were collected at baseline, 1, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months. Patient reported outcomes were measured to assess pain, sensitivity, and satisfaction.

Results

Clinical improvements were similar for test and control sites with no statistically significant difference. At 12 months, the average PPD reduced from 6.1 to 4.2 mm for test and 6.2 to 4.3 mm for control sites. GR increased by 0.4 mm at test and control sites. CAL increased from 6.8 to 5.3 mm for test and 6.9 to 5.5 mm for control sites. Clinical outcomes were stratified by baseline PPD ( = 5, = 6 and ≥7 mm) and analyzed for number of sites that reduced (≤4 mm). No significant difference was observed when the baseline PPD was 5 or 6 mm. Test sites with baseline PPD ≥7 mm demonstrated a statistically significant difference in the percentage of reduced sites when compared with controls at nine (P = 0.001) and 12 months (P = 0.044).

Conclusions

Adjunctive Er,Cr:YSGG laser therapy with SRP provides similar clinical improvement in the treatment of moderate‐severe periodontitis as SRP alone and may offer some advantage for deeper (≥7 mm) pockets.
SARS‐CoV‐2 RNA in dental biofilms: Supragingival and subgingival findings from inpatients in a COVID‐19 intensive care unit
Authors: Gomes Sabrina C. , da Fonseca Juliane G. , Miller Luísa M. , Manenti Luciane , Angst Patrícia Daniela M. , Lamers Marcelo L. , Brum Ilma S. , Nunes Luciana N.
Published: March 2022

Background

Saliva, salivary glands, gingival crevicular fluid, and supragingival biofilms may harbor SARS‐CoV‐2 RNA. This observational study aimed to investigate the presence and load of SARS‐CoV‐2 RNA in supragingival, and subgingival biofilms obtained from intensive care unit (ICU) patients.

Methods

A convenience sample, composed of 52 COVID‐19+ participants (48.6 ± 14.8 years, 26.9% females), were evaluated for pre‐existing comorbidities, number of teeth, and periodontal data [visible plaque (VPI), bleeding on probing (BOP), periodontal probing depth (PPD), and attachment loss (AL)]. Supragingival and subgingival samples (SubDeep: four sites with the deepest PPD; SubRemain: remaining shallower sites) were analyzed by RT‐qPCR with corresponding cycle quantification (Cq). Statistical analyses considered the individual (P = 5%).

Results

Twenty‐six participants tested positive for dental biofilms (Biofilm+) with 96.2% of them being positive for subgingival samples. Pre‐existing comorbidities, number of teeth examined, VPI, PPD, AL, and BOP were similar between Biofilm+ and Biofilm‐. SubDeep PPD (3.72 ± 0.86), AL (4.34 ± 1.33), and % of BOP (66.0 ± 31.1) values were significantly greater compared to SubRemain values (2.84 ± 0.48, 3.37 ± 0.34, and 20.4 ± 24.1, respectively). Biofilm+ Cqs showed no association with the periodontal condition. Cqs from Nasopharynx/Oropharynx (Naso/Oro; n = 36) were similar between Biofilm+ and Biofilm‐ participants. Length of time since ICU intake, last Naso/Oro RT‐qPCR readings, onset of COVID‐19 symptoms, and biofilm samplings were greater for Biofilm‐.

Conclusions

ICU patients harbored SARS‐CoV‐2 RNA in supragingival and subgingival biofilms, irrespective of the periodontal condition, and systemic viral load. The high number of positive patients highlights the need to better understand this habit to provide adequate oral care.
Supramolecular Engineering of Alkylated, Fluorinated, and Mixed Amphiphiles
Authors: Rashmi Rashmi , Hasheminejad Hooman , Herziger Svenja , Mirzaalipour Alireza , Singh Abhishek K , Netz Roland R. , Böttcher Christoph , Makki Hesam , Sharma Sunil K , Haag Rainer
Published: March 2022

The rational design of perfluorinated amphiphiles to control the supramolecular aggregation in an aqueous medium is still a key challenge for the engineering of supramolecular architectures. Here, the synthesis and physical properties of six novel non‐ionic amphiphiles are presented. The effect of mixed alkylated and perfluorinated segments in a single amphiphile is also studied and compared with only alkylated and perfluorinated units. To explore their morphological behavior in an aqueous medium, dynamic light scattering (DLS) and cryogenic transmission electron microscopy/electron microscopy (cryo‐TEM/EM) measurements are used. The assembly mechanisms with theoretical investigations are further confirmed, using the Martini model to perform large‐scale coarse‐grained molecular dynamics simulations. These novel synthesized amphiphiles offer a greater and more systematic understanding of how perfluorinated systems assemble in an aqueous medium and suggest new directions for rational designing of new amphiphilic systems and interpreting their assembly process.
Adoption of personalized pricing in a supply chain
Authors: Chen Chen , Duan Yongrui , Li Guiping
Published: March 2022

By considering a two‐segment consumer market, we investigate the impact of selling formats on the adoption of personalized pricing (PP). We find that (i) when the valuation of the two segments is (not) close, PP is more likely to be implemented under the wholesale (agency) model; (ii) when the high‐type segment is relatively large (small), the likelihood of PP is higher (lower) under the agency model; (iii) the likelihood is non‐monotonic in the size of the high‐type segment and low‐type consumers' valuation; (iv) the player that bears the cost of PP is better off when the adoption becomes more costly.
Magnetoactive electrospun hybrid scaffolds based on poly(vinylidene fluoride‐co‐trifluoroethylene) and magnetite particles with varied sizes
Authors: Botvin Vladimir V. , Surmeneva Maria A. , Mukhortova Yulia R. , Belyakova Elizaveta O. , Wagner Dmitriy V. , Chelobanov Boris P. , Laktionov Pavel P. , Sukhinina Ekaterina V. , Pershina Alexandra G. , Kholkin Andrei L. , Surmenev Roman A.
Published: March 2022

The development of functional magnetoactive materials fabricated in the form of electrospun scaffolds is of paramount importance for modern medicine and pharmaceuticals. To precisely control the morphology and magnetic properties of the composite magnetoactive scaffolds, the electrospinning conditions, incorporation method of magnetic particles into the polymer solution to avoid agglomeration, and the shape/size of the particles should be thoroughly studied. In this study, hybrid magnetoactive scaffolds based on poly(vinylidene fluoride‐co‐trifluoroethylene) (P(VDF‐TrFE)), doped with either unmodified magnetite (Fe3O4) or magnetite particles modified with oleic acid (Fe3O4/OA), have been fabricated by electrospinning. Modification of magnetite particles by oleic acid results in the formation of nanosized particles in comparison with submicron‐sized Fe3O4 particles (37 vs. 329 nm), which reveal a greater affinity to P(VDF‐TrFE) due to their hydrophobic surface. Composite scaffolds prepared using 30 wt% polymer solution with 8 wt% Fe3O4 and Fe3O4/OA reveal saturation magnetization values of 9.14 and 5.8 emu/g, respectively. The saturation magnetization of composite scaffolds agrees well with the saturation magnetization of the initial magnetites. Considering the better dispersion of Fe3O4/OA in the polymer solution, a series of composite scaffolds with 4 and 12 wt% concentrations of magnetite have been studied. Cytotoxicity tests demonstrated that all the fabricated composite scaffolds are nontoxic to human cells. Variation of magnetite particles content in the polymer fibers enables to obtain composite scaffolds with tailored saturation magnetization, which can be potentially used as perspective magnetoactive and magnetoelectric materials for biomedical application.
Experimental Investigation on the Influence of Confining Pressure on Thermal Aged CMDB Propellant
Authors: Li Hui , Liu Jia‐ming , Chen Xiong , Wang Ting‐yu , Li Chun‐lei , Wang Shi‐xin , Xu Jin‐sheng
Published: March 2022

With the purpose of investigating the influences of aging time and confining pressure on the mechanical properties of a composite modified double‐based (CMDB) propellant, uniaxial tension tests of the propellant with various accelerated aging times were conducted under various confining pressure conditions (relative atmospheric pressure 0, 0.5±0.05, 2±0.05 and 6±0.05 MPa). The stress‐strain behaviors at various experimental conditions were analyzed. The results show that stress‐strain curves can be divided into three stages, the initial tensile stage, the elastic stage, and the damage growth stage. Additionally, the key mechanical parameters (e. g., the maximum tensile strength) show a strong dependence on aging time and confining pressure. The ultimate strain decreases with increasing aging time, while the tensile strength first decreases and later increases with aging time. It was observed that the maximum tensile strength and elastic modulus of the CMDB propellant decrease with confining pressure. Furthermore, the damage evolution curves can be divided into two stages. The later nonlinearity of the stress‐strain curves is mainly induced by the initiation and propagation of macro‐cracks. It is believed that these findings will help to accurately analyze the structural integrity of CMDB propellant grains during ignition pressurization loading after a long storage time.
Thermal Decomposition Performance of CL‐20‐Based Ultraviolet Curing Propellants
Authors: Gao Yu‐chen , Li Manman , Yang Wei‐tao , Hu Rui , Zhang Yu‐cheng
Published: March 2022

Photocuring formulas were designed for 3D printing technology used in forming propellants, explosives, and pyrotechnics. Thermal performance is an essential part of the comprehensive performance of this kind of formula. In this paper, a formula consisting of epoxy acrylic resin (EA) as binder and hexanitrohexaazaisowurtzitane (CL‐20) as the energetic additive was developed and printed by material extrusion 3D printing technology. The thermal decomposition behavior was investigated by the differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) method. Furthermore, the decomposition kinetics was calculated and analysed based on Kissinger‐Akahira‐Sunose (KSA) method. In addition, species and contents of gaseous products during decomposition were measured using the DSC‐TG‐FTIR‐MS method. The results from these several techniques were discussed comprehensively. It was shown that the resin binder has great effects on the decomposition of CL‐20. It was found that the interaction between resin and CL‐20 led to two exothermic processes in the decomposition of the compound. Also, there was no overlap in the activation energy between the two processes, with 149.23 kJ/mol for the first process and 164.41 kJ/mol for the second process.
Community pharmacists workforce readiness to deliver vaccination services: A cross‐sectional study from Jordan
Authors: Alnahar Saja A. , Gkountouras Georgios , Darwish Rula M. , Bates Ian
Published: March 2022

This study assesses Jordanian community pharmacists’ readiness and willingness to deliver vaccination services in their practice sites. Between February and April 2021, a self‐administered online questionnaire was distributed via social media, WhatsApp messages, and personal communication. The questionnaire targeted practicing community pharmacies. Descriptive and inferential data analysis was carried out. A total of 403 community pharmacists participated in the study. Almost 146 (36%) community pharmacists reported vaccinating patients in their practice sites. However, readiness assessment revealed that only 54 (13.4%) pharmacists received the required training and qualifications. Moreover, 33 (8.2%) study participants worked in adequately equipped and designed community pharmacies. Overall, surveyed participants held positive attitudes toward their involvement in vaccination services: 260 (64.5%) pharmacists were willing to vaccinate patients, and 227 (65.0%) out of unready, unqualified, participants were willing to get needed training and qualifications. According to study participants, regulatory and professional bodies (Ministry of Health, Jordan Pharmacists Association) are influential in supporting pharmacist‐vaccinators. Among the investigated factors, organizational structure and employment status were significantly associated with pharmacists’ readiness to deliver vaccination. This study revealed that further work is needed to increase pharmacists’ and pharmacies’ readiness to deliver vaccination services and that regulators should follow a more active approach in highlighting the importance of training and the impact of training in patients’ safety and satisfaction.
An analytical review for the estimation of montelukast sodium
Authors: Anant Arjun , Saha Moumita , Dhiman Shubham , Singh Priti , Kurmi Balak Das , Gupta Ghanshyam Das , Asati Vivek
Published: March 2022

Montelukast is a highly potent and selective receptor antagonist of cysteinyl leukotrienes (CysLT1) used in chronic asthma and vasoconstriction reduction and also used in allergies, swelling, hay fever, and shortness of breath. For the measurement of montelukast sodium in biological and pharmaceutical samples, there are different asynchronous and concurrent analytical methods, such as high‐performance thin layer chromatography, UV spectroscopy, capillary electrophoresis, high‐performance liquid chromatography, and liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry, have been developed. The pathogenesis of asthma, mechanism of action, and various analytical methods for the detection of montelukast sodium and its combination of dosage forms and biological samples have been described in the present review. Ranjan et al. suggested the reverse phase high‐performance liquid chromatography approach for estimating montelukast in rabbit plasma and found the best limit of detection result of 1.0 ng/mL. Ezzeldin et al. developed a liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry system for the simultaneous detection of combinations of montelukast, gliclazide, and nifedipine. The authors conclude that the studies described in the present manuscript will assist researchers in choosing a simple, rapid, and responsive method for the analysis of montelukast sodium and its combinations.
Development of a sample preparation procedure using an iron‐based metal‐organic framework for the extraction of pesticides from fruit juices by dispersive micro solid‐phase extraction followed by their preconcentration by dispersive liquid‐liquid microextraction
Authors: Pezhhanfar Sakha , Farajzadeh Mir Ali , Hosseini‐Yazdi Seyed Abolfazl , Afshar Mogaddam Mohammad Reza
Published: March 2022

For the first time, this research aims to develop a MIL‐53 (Fe)‐based dispersive micro solid‐phase extraction method prior to dispersive liquid‐liquid microextraction for the extraction and preconcentration of some pesticides and their analysis using a gas chromatography–flame ionization detector. For performing the extraction procedure, MIL‐53 (Fe) was added to an aqueous solution containing the analytes and vortexed to be dispersed in the solution and adsorb the analytes. After centrifugation, the analytes loaded on the adsorbent were eluted using acetonitrile. Then, μL‐level of carbon tetrachloride, as an extractant, was mixed with the obtained acetonitrile phase and injected into deionized water. One microliter of the sedimented phase after centrifugation was injected into the separation system. Satisfactory analytical results such as wide linear ranges, high enrichment factors (250–380), reasonable extraction recoveries (50–76%), and low limits of detection (0.63–2.05 μg L−1) and quantification (2.11–6.83 μg L−1) were obtained. Using only 5.0 mg MIL‐53 (Fe) as the sorbent, 0.5 mL acetonitrile as the elution/disperser solvent, and 40 μL carbon tetrachloride as the extractant makes the analytical approach so precious. Also, using a green metal, iron, as the central ion of the metal‐organic framework is another beneficial aspect of the research.
A survey on datasets for fairness‐aware machine learning
Authors: Le Quy Tai , Roy Arjun , Iosifidis Vasileios , Zhang Wenbin , Ntoutsi Eirini
Published: March 2022

As decision‐making increasingly relies on machine learning (ML) and (big) data, the issue of fairness in data‐driven artificial intelligence systems is receiving increasing attention from both research and industry. A large variety of fairness‐aware ML solutions have been proposed which involve fairness‐related interventions in the data, learning algorithms, and/or model outputs. However, a vital part of proposing new approaches is evaluating them empirically on benchmark datasets that represent realistic and diverse settings. Therefore, in this paper, we overview real‐world datasets used for fairness‐aware ML. We focus on tabular data as the most common data representation for fairness‐aware ML. We start our analysis by identifying relationships between the different attributes, particularly with respect to protected attributes and class attribute, using a Bayesian network. For a deeper understanding of bias in the datasets, we investigate interesting relationships using exploratory analysis.

This article is categorized under:

Commercial, Legal, and Ethical Issues > Fairness in Data Mining

Fundamental Concepts of Data and Knowledge > Data Concepts

Technologies > Data Preprocessing
Clinical magnetic hyperthermia requires integrated magnetic particle imaging
Authors: Healy Sean , Bakuzis Andris F. , Goodwill Patrick W. , Attaluri Anilchandra , Bulte Jeff W. M. , Ivkov Robert
Published: March 2022

Magnetic nanomaterials that respond to clinical magnetic devices have significant potential as cancer nanotheranostics. The complexities of their physics, however, introduce challenges for these applications. Hyperthermia is a heat‐based cancer therapy that improves treatment outcomes and patient survival when controlled energy delivery is combined with accurate thermometry. To date, few technologies have achieved the needed evolution for the demands of the clinic. Magnetic fluid hyperthermia (MFH) offers this potential, but to be successful it requires particle‐imaging technology that provides real‐time thermometry. Presently, the only technology having the potential to meet these requirements is magnetic particle imaging (MPI), for which a proof‐of‐principle demonstration with MFH has been achieved. Successful clinical translation and adoption of integrated MPI/MFH technology will depend on successful resolution of the technological challenges discussed.

This article is categorized under:

Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Nanomedicine for Oncologic Disease

Diagnostic Tools > In Vivo Nanodiagnostics and Imaging
Bildgebung in der gelenkerhaltenden Hüftchirurgie
Authors: Meier M. K. , Lerch T. D. , Hanke M. S. , Tannast M. , Steppacher S. D. , Schmaranzer F.
Published: March 2022

Instabilität und Impingement stellen die Hauptpathomechanismen dar, die bereits bei jungen Patienten durch erhöhten mechanischen Stress zu chondrolabralen Schäden, schmerzhafter Bewegungseinschränkung und frühzeitiger Coxarthrose führen können. Ziele der gelenkerhaltenden Chirurgie an der Hüfte sind die Korrektur der knöchernen Deformitäten und chondrolabraler Schäden sowie die Wiederherstellung der Gelenkfunktion. Voraussetzung dafür ist die Identifikation der ursächlichen Pathologien an der Hüfte, welche zudem in Kombination auftreten können. Die dezidierte Röntgen- und Magnetresonanzbildgebung der knöchernen Morphologie und der degenerativen Gelenkbinnenläsionen liefern einen essenziellen Beitrag für die Behandlungsindikation und die Behandlungsplanung. Der vorliegende Artikel soll einen kurzen Überblick über die Hüftdeformitäten mit deren Prävalenz, Pathomechanismus und indizierter Therapie sowie detaillierte Empfehlungen über die spezifische radiologische Abklärung geben.
Instant improvement in monaural spatial hearing abilities through cognitive feedback
Authors: Arras Tine , Snapp Hillary , Sangen Anouk , Snels Chantal , Kuntz Iris , Theunen Tinne , Kheirkhah Kiana , Zarowski Andrzej , Wesarg Thomas , van Wieringen Astrid , Agterberg Martijn J. H.
Published: March 2022

Several studies report that sound localization performance of acute and chronic monauralized normal-hearing listeners can improve through training. Typically, training sessions are administered daily for several days or weeks. While this intensive training is effective, it may also be that monaural localization abilities improve instantly after providing explicit top-down information about the direction dependent change in timbre and level. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether cognitive feedback (i.e., top-down information) could instantly improve sound localization in naive acutely monauralized listeners. Forty-three normal-hearing listeners (experimental group), divided over five different centers, were tested. Two control groups, consisting of, respectively, nine and eleven normal-hearing listeners, were tested in one center. Broadband sounds (0.5–20 kHz) were presented from visible loudspeakers, positioned in azimuth (− 90° to 90°). Participants in the experimental group received explicit information about the noticeable difference in timbre and the poor localization in the monauralized listening condition, resulting in an instant improvement in sound localization abilities. With subsequent roving of stimulus level (20 dB), sound localization performance deteriorated immediately. The reported improvement is related to the context of the localization test. The results provide important implications for studies investigating sound localization in a clinical setting, especially during closed-set testing, and indicate the importance of top-down information.
Vitamin D Metabolites: Analytical Challenges and Clinical Relevance
Authors: Alonso N. , Zelzer S. , Eibinger G. , Herrmann M.
Published: March 2022

Recent research activities have provided new insights in vitamin D metabolism in various conditions. Furthermore, substantial progress has been made in the analysis of vitamin D metabolites and related biomarkers, such as vitamin D binding protein. Liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometric (LC–MS/MS) methods are capable of accurately measuring multiple vitamin D metabolites in parallel. Nevertheless, only 25(OH)D and the biologically active form 1,25(OH)2D are routinely measured in clinical practice. While 25(OH)D remains the analyte of choice for the diagnosis of vitamin D deficiency, 1,25(OH)2D is only recommended in a few conditions with a dysregulated D metabolism. 24,25(OH)2D, free and bioavailable 25(OH)D, and the vitamin D metabolite ratio (VMR) have shown promising results, but technical pitfalls in their quantification, limited clinical data and the lack of reference values, impede their use in clinical practice. LC–MS/MS is the preferred method for the measurement of all vitamin D related analytes as it offers high sensitivity and specificity. In particular, 25(OH)D and 24,25(OH)2D can accurately be measured with this technology. When interpreted together, they seem to provide a functional measure of vitamin D metabolism beyond the analysis of 25(OH)D alone. The determination of VDBP, free and bioavailable 25(OH)D is compromised by unresolved analytical issues, lacking reference intervals and insufficient clinical data. Therefore, future research activities should focus on analytical standardization and exploration of their clinical value. This review provides an overview on established and new vitamin D related biomarkers including their pathophysiological role, preanalytical and analytical aspects, expected values, indications and influencing conditions.