bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Case Series of Atrial Myxomas – A Tertiary Care Centre Experience
Authors: Menon Dhanya , Muthusubramanian P. S. , Sulochana Sonti , Chitra S. , Meenakshi K.
Published: December 2021

Aim: The current study aims at highlighting the clinical presentation, echocardiographic profile and histopathological details of the four cases of cardiac myxoma which we had encountered in our institution within a period of one year and to identify a relationship between the clinical behaviour and the histopathological picture.

Results: Among the four cases 2 were males and 2 were females and their ages ranged from 36 to 49 years. Two of the four patients presented with chest pain and palpitations , one with dyspnoea and the other case presented with recurrent stroke. Three of the cases were located in the left atrium while one case was in the right atrium. The histopathological examination of all the cases showed stellate , round and polygonal cells surrounded by abundant myxoid stroma. There was no histopathological correlation between the different clinical presentations or locations of the myxomas.

Conclusion: Although histopathological examination is necessary along with echocardiography to make a diagnosis of cardiac myxoma , there is no correlation between the different clinical presentation , site and the histopathological examination.
A Retrospective Study of Adipocytic Tumours Received at a Tertiary Care Center
Authors: Agarwal Neha , Diwagar Dr.Nithin , Sekhar Ganthimathy
Published: December 2021

Introduction: Adipocytic tumours comprise a large proportion of the vast histomorphological spectrum of soft tissue tumours. They range from benign lipomas to malignant liposarcomas with an entire range of various histological sub-types in between. Liposarcomas account for 15-20% cases of soft tissue sarcomas diagnosed. They are characterized with a high recurrence rate, progression to higher grade with time making their correct and prompt diagnosis imperative.

Aims: To analyze the clinicopathological profile of adipocytic tumours received at a tertiary care center over a period of three years. To determine the distribution of adipocytic tumours among different age groups and gender. To ascertain the most common site of occurrence/organ involved. To determine the most common histopathological subtypes among the benign and malignant adipocytic tumours.

Study Design: Retrospective Descriptive study.

Place and Duration of Study: Saveetha Medical College and Hospital, between July 2017-June 2020.

Methodology: All cases of adipocytic tumours (218) inclusive of both resection and biopsy specimens received during the study period were included and their case records were accessed. The demographic details were obtained from the case records at the Medical Records Division and the histomorphological findings from the histopathology registers at the Department of Pathology.

Results: In this study, from a total of 20,767 specimens received at our tertiary care center during the period of study, 1.05% (218) were adipocytic tumours, of which 97.25% (212) were benign lipomas and 2.75% (6) were malignant liposarcomas. Out of the total number of malignant tumours (1050) received during the period of study, 2.95% (31) were soft tissue sarcomas, out of which 19.35% (6) cases were liposarcomas. Among the liposarcomas received at our center, 50% (3) cases were well differentiated liposarcoma, 33.3% (2) cases were pleomorphic liposarcoma and 16.7% (1) cases were dedifferentiated liposarcoma.
Innocuous Lesions and Not so Innocuous Lesions of the Skin and Soft Tissue
Authors: Srikanth Nayantara , Diwagar K. Nithin , Padmapriya B. S. , Sekhar Ganthimathy
Published: December 2021

Background: Cystic lesions of the skin and soft tissue are often neglected and thought to be innocuous or harmless. These lesions need to be excised to exclude malignancy. The lesions may present in unusual sites and may also be of infective origin. Thus, there is an urgent need to determine the prevalence and identify the histopathological features of the cystic lesions as the innocuous appearing lesions may actually not be so innocuous. In addition, it is the histopathological features that determine the treatment modality.

Aim: To determine the features and prevalence of the types of cysts in skin and soft tissue.

Materials and Methods: A retrospective study of the cystic lesions of the skin and soft tissue was conducted. The records from the Department of Pathology, Saveetha Medical College were retrieved and reviewed for patients with cystic lesions of the skin and soft tissue over a one year period extending between January 2019 and December 2019. The records were examined for the following data : age, sex, type of lesion, clinical and histopathological diagnosis.

Results: In all 109 cases with skin and soft tissue swellings were analyzed. Among these 53 were males and 56 were more females reported (51 %) of cystic swellings as compared to males (48%). Cystic lesions were most commonly encountered in the age group of 18 to 40 years, which suggests that there may be a role for trauma or occupation related occurrence. A variety of cysts were encountered such as epidermoid cysts (70%), Trichilemmal cyst (7%), and Ganglion (7%).Phaeohyphomycotic cyst, mucous retention cyst, hemangioma and pilomatrixoma. Epidermal cysts were more frequently encountered in males (54%) than females (46%).Most lesions occurred in the back.

Conclusion: Epidermal cysts may frequently be associated certain syndromes, hence it is important to evaluate these cysts. In addition phaeohyphomycotic cysts may be mistaken for Ganglion, so histopathological examination is necessary to initiate appropriate therapy.
Views and Perceptions on Telemedicine by Consumers in Delhi
Authors: Sharma Divas , Mittal Monika , Pareek Manoj
Published: December 2021

Telemedicine, also known as telehealth, has been around for decades, but despite its many perceived benefits, its adoption has remained low. The objective our study was to know how consumers felt about telemedicine service during COVID -19 and to find out factors influencing consumers' perceptions of telemedicine services, a survey was done using a questionnaire. Social media and e-mail were used to inform people about the research due to onset of pandemic. An e online survey was done from the period of April 1st to June 30th, 2021 in India’s capital Delhi and adjoining areas, 122 service users were sampled for the survey. A 10-item scale was used to assess telemedicine satisfaction, revealing that all participants were satisfied with their telemedicine experience(s) in general. The elements of perception were studied using factor analysis. The results of the analysis revealed that an individual's intention to utilize a system or technology may be influenced not only by factors affecting the user's direct encounter with the system or technology but also by factors affecting the service provider. Patients place a high value on these qualities, thus service providers can design their interface, appointment procedure, and consultation process around them.
Attentive Evaluation of Trace Elements in Patients with Breast Cancer-A Cross Sectional Study of Nawabshah, Sindh, Pakistan
Authors: Lakhan Hazooran , Qureshi Ambreen , Memon Khalil Ahmed , Ahmed Masood , Khushk Maimoona , Shaikh Farheen , Ahmer Arslan
Published: December 2021

Background: Breast cancer has recently become one of the most obsessing and life threatening issues in the world. Globally, females suffered mostly by breast cancer. Breast cancer is multifactorial etiological disorder. Trace elements are acts as cofactors and biological catalyst. They play a very essential role in the metabolic pathways.

Methods: A cross sectional study with two hundred (200) subjects and divided into two groups. 50 females were normal healthy as a control while 150 females were patient with breast cancer. Blood was collected from all participant after taking history, clinical data, mammographic and histopathological findings. Consent and predesign porforma were filled by all participants of study. The trace elements (Na, K, Zn, Fe, Ca) were determined through atomic absorption spectrophotometer (ASS) and other biochemical analysis such as Total Protein, serum albumin and Total cholesterol were analyzed on Micro Lab.300. Data was entered on SPSS 22.0 version, and applied student t-test for continuous variables. Results were analyzed as Mean and standard deviation.

Results: The results of serum Na+, K+, Ca++, Zn++, Cu++ and Fe in breast cancer patient were observed and found significantly fluctuated in breast cancer patients as compared to normal healthy subjects. Serum Total Protein significantly increased whereas serum Albumin decreased in patient with breast cancer.

Conclusions: in Present study we found significantly abnormal concentration of Na+, K+, Ca++, Zn++, Cu++ and Fe in breast cancer these elements may contribute in early diagnosis of breast cancer. Increased body weight and total cholesterol are also risk factors of Ca breast.
A 2 Years Child Bronchopneumonia with Down Syndrome
Authors: Yelne Seema , Wanjari Mayur , Rodge Hina , Alwadkar Sagar , Wankhede Pratibha , Mendhe Deeplata
Published: December 2021

Introduction: Pneumonia and respiratory infections impact infants and children with Down syndrome; pneumonia is a leading cause of mortality in adults with Down syndrome.

Case Presentation: A 2 years old child came to AVBRH hospital with a history of fever, cough and cold for 6 days. The patient was admitted to the pediatric ward for management. Suddenly patient started to breathlessness, increase in serum creatinine and acidotic breathing. The patient shifted to the pediatric intensive care unit.

Intervention: The treatment of patients was started immediately after admission. The patient's condition was dull after the examination and patient condition inspection doctors decide to intubate the patient for further management and recovery of the patient.

Conclusion: In this report, we mainly focus on expert medical management and excellent nursing care helped in managing the complicated case very nicely. The patient response was positive to conservative and nursing management. The patient was discharged without postoperative complications and satisfactory with recovery.
Black Fungus an Add on Epidemic to Cosvid-19 Pandemic
Authors: Tiwari Shilpi , Kulkarni Parimala , Mali Shikha , Bhargava Sanjana , Jaiswal Nandini , Menon Arathi
Published: December 2021

COVID-19 patients have lower immunosuppressive CD4+ T and CD8+ T cells and henceforth patients in intensive care units (ICU) need mechanical ventilation, henceforward they stay in hospitals. These patients have been exposed to advances in fungal co-infections. COVID-19 patients progress towards mucormycosis a black fungal infection that is deadly leading to loss of sight and hearing and eventually death. This article discusses the clinical manifestations, risk factors and emphases on virulence traits and management of black fungus.
Drug Adherence, in Liver Transplant, Patients: A Review
Authors: Ali Sajid , Ahmer Arslan
Published: December 2021

Transplantation of liver due to liver failure provides the chance to patient to live in pleasant environment and improve their health-related quality of life. The therapeutic objectives of liver transplant only be achieved if the patient becomes adherent to the therapy prescribed by the doctors such as Immunosuppressant drugs and life style as suggested. Endurance of the liver transplant patients in the starting five years after the liver transplant varies from 60-80%. The survival depends upon type of illness which leads to liver transplantation the causative agents including comorbidities, carelessness in liver damaging diseases and fails to manage self-life care. The major risk after transplantation, are the organ dysfunction and the graft failure. Therefore, the outcomes of transplant will not be achieved if the patient become non adherent to therapy on the other hand cost will also increased. Non adherence can be determined by interaction with patients to know the different factors that involves in non-adherence such as health care system of the patient, socio economic condition of the patient, availability of prescribed medicines, underlying disease and medical condition of the patient. Patient is said to be adherent if the patient taking 80-110% medicines according to prescription. In case of liver transplantation non adherence may vary from 2-67% and the annual average estimated as 35.6%, as a result graft rejection or failure in transplantation may occurs, cost of treatment may also increase and morbidity and mortality may also increase. There are different tools used to determine non adherence some of them are counting the number of tablets, self-reported questionnaire, reporting of common side effects of immunosuppressive drugs, determination of serum level of immunosuppressant drugs and electronic monitoring. Out of these methods the most common, easy and cost-effective method for assessing the non-adherence in medical practice is self-reporting. Self-reporting method is highly specific because the questionnaire used in this, contain specific questions it is also used with other tools to get the specific information of patient’s medication use behavior. Medication Adherence among Liver Transplant Recipients can be improved by application of reminder approaches such as Phone Calls, Mobile Application and/or Patient Counseling and medication non-adherence have negative impact on quality of life of patients.
Anti-bacterial Efficacy of Probiotics used in Provisional Polymethyl Methacrylate Crowns against Porphyromonos gingivalis – an In vitro Study
Authors: Balaji Hemamalini
Published: December 2021

Aim: To evaluate the effect of Probiotic used in PMMA Temporary restorations on gingival inflammatory response by its action on the marginal gingival epithelial cells.

Materials and Methods:  This is an in vitro Interventional pilot study using discs of  PMMA ( Group A ) and PMMA  incorporated with Probiotics (Group B . The effect of probiotics incorporated PMMA on strains of Porphyromonos gingivalis  grown on culture plates will  be assessed using zone of inhibition test and minimum inhibitory concentration was assessed . Data was recorded, tabulated and statistically evaluated using SPSS software.

Results: The zone of Inhibition in the Group B was (Mean = 16.30mm) is comparatively higher than that of Group A with mean value 12.92mm. Results states that among the various concentration of Probiotic Lozenges (2.5, 5, 10, 15 and 20 µg/ml) used to determine the antibacterial activity , Highest mean zone of inhibition was observed with 20 µg/ml with 16 mm, followed by 15 µg/ml  with 14mm , 10 µg/ml  with 9mm, 5 µg/ml  with 11 mm & with the lowest inhibition observed in 2.5 µg/ml  with 8mm. There is significant correlation between concentration of probiotics and its antibacterial efficacy. The increase in concentration of probiotics in the PMMA discs is directly proportional to its antibacterial efficacy against P. gingivalis.

Conclusion: Thus the study proved a significant correlation between Probiotic used in PMMA Temporary crowns and reduction in gingival Inflammation at the margins of the restoration which will be beneficial when used in crowns used in patients undergoing Orthodontic treatment or Immediate Implant Loading with acrylic crowns.
A Clinical Case Report: Schizophrenia
Authors: Ekhar Deepti , Gawai Jaya , Kasturkar Pooja
Published: December 2021

Background: Schizophrenia (SCZ) is a serious mental disorder in which people take reality as abnormally. SCZ may cause in combination of hallucination, delusions, and extremely disorder thinking and behaviour that impairs daily functioning and cannot be disabling. There are different reasons of SCZ this may be as of Genes, Environment or Change in Brain Structures.In India around 3/1000 people were affected due to SCZ

Aim: The purpose of this case report is to determine the first line approach for a person with SCZ who has been referred to a public mental health facility for treatment.

Objective: To identifying symptoms of SCZ early, providing treatment and preventing possible complications.

Methods: Knowledge used to write this case description was gathered from PubMed outlets, search hand, searching college and personal libraries looking for research techniques and case report texts, engaging in or writing many case reports with experience.

Results: The patient was taken psychopharmacological treatment antipsychotic drugs olanzapine, Risperidone along with antidepressant Sertraline and psycho social therapy, coping strategies, family therapy, yoga, cognitive behavioural therapy, medication. After those symptoms was minimized.

Conclusion: Patients achieve positive outcomes not only through the support of their treatment management, but also through adaptation and familysupport. subsequently, with appropriate psychophysiological treatment, the patient gave a positive response and gradually all the planned goalswere achieved. Finally, the patient was discharged and she is currently beingmonitored.
Feto-placental Changes in Pregnancy Induced Hypertension
Authors: Sulochana Sonti , Priya Krishna , Sindhuja .
Published: December 2021

Aims: To study if there is any difference in the foetus and placenta of pregnant women who are normotensive and those of of hypertensive patients of different severity.

Study Design:  Prospective study.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of pathology, Saveetha institute of medical and technical sciences, between June 2017- June 2018.

Methodology: Pregnant women with hypertension attending obstetrics and gynecology department, Saveetha Medical College, Chennai was studied during the study period.

The study was conducted in accordance with the guidelines approved by the institutional review board of our Institution. The study population was divided into two groups namely normotensive and hypertensive patients. The hypertensive groups patients were further divided into two groups of mild (BP ≥140/90 mm Hg with proteinuria) and severe (BP ≥ 160/100 mm Hg with proteinuria). The placental specimens after expulsion were collected in 10% neutral buffered formalin solution. Informed consent was obtained in all patients and clinical data were obtained from the case notes. In the histopathology laboratory biopsy was taken from the insertion point of umbilical cord for light microscopy.

P-values less than 0.05 were considered statistically significant.

Data was entered in MS excel sheet and analysed using SPSS software version.

Results: The placental weight, birth weight of baby and APGAR score was decreased in PIH patients than normal pregnant women.

Conclusion: The diagnosis and treatment of PIH is very important to prevent complications in mother and baby.
Comparative Study on the Efficacy of Commercially Available Chemical and Herbal Mouthwash against Oral Microorganisms
Authors: Reshawn M. Infant , Muralidharan N. P.
Published: December 2021

Aim: The present study was done to determine the activity of Naturally prepared  licorice mouthwash in comparison to chlorhexidine  mouthwash.        

Introduction: Maintenance of oral hygiene is very important in preventing the growth of  a sticky film of bacteria and food particles that accumulates on teeth and hence Mouthwashes are prescribed in dentistry for treatment of several oral conditions and for prevention against various microorganisms. Licorice  is  derived  from "liquiritiae” which is  shrub or herb  and  the  yellow  colour  of it is  due to the flavonoids content of  the plant, which  includes liquiritin, isoliquiritin and other compounds. Herbal Mouthwashes (mouth rinses) are solutions or liquids intended to reduce the microbial load in the oral cavity.

Materials and Methods: This study was conducted in Saveetha Dental Hospital, Chennai, Tamilnadu, India. The liquorice was extracted and formulated as mouth wash. Fig. 1 denotes the salivary samples were obtained from 20 volunteers (10 test group, 10 control group) and then, the participants were asked to  rinse their mouth with freshly prepared licorice mouthwash(test group),  chlorhexidine mouthwash (control group) and then paired saliva samples were obtained immediately after and before the mouthwash and finally the Colony forming units were recorded for pre and post usage of both the herbal and commercially available  mouthwash.

Results: Study showed that there was a mean reduction in the colony-forming units with herbal mouthwash and Chlorhexidine mouth washes. Herbal mouthwash showed reduction in colony forming growth after usage of herbal mouthwash.
Evaluation of p-y Curves for Group Piles in Cohesive Soil Based on 3D Numerical Analysis
Authors: Jung Jaewoo , Choi Yongjin , Ahn Jaehun
Published: December 2021

The pile foundation supported on a structure can generate large horizontal loads due to earthquakes, high winds, and wave actions. The behavior of piles when subjected to horizontal load is generally analyzed using the p-y curve and “p-multiplier (Pm),” which is the coefficient of the group pile effect. In this study, the p-y curves and Pm were calculated by analyzing a single pile and group of piles arranged in 3 × 3 installed in cohesive soil using the finite element analysis program, Plaxis 3D. The soil resistance (p) increased as the undrained shear strength of the clay increased and the distance between the pile centers (S/D) increased. In the case of the group pile effect, when Pm was closer to the center of the group pile, the distance between the pile centers was smaller, and Pm was less due to the interference effect of the adjacent individual piles. In conclusion, it was observed that Pm is affected by the location of the individual piles and the distance between the pile centers.
Parameter Adjustment to Prevent the Overestimation of Peak Discharge in a Small Watershed
Authors: Kim JongChun , Jeong Jongho
Published: December 2021

We revisit empirical methods to prevent the overestimation of peak discharge in a small watershed, in particular investigating the time-area method, which has not been considered in the overestimation problem of peak discharge. To avoid misapplying the same inlet time between the unit hydrograph and rational formula, distinct parameter adjustments for each method are proposed. We adopt the secondary basin response time for the unit hydrograph, rainfall duration for the rational formula, and time of concentration for the time-area method, as suitable parameters to adjust the estimation of peak discharge. In conclusion, adding 10 minutes to secondary basin response time, 20 minutes to rainfall duration, and 30 minutes to time of concentration, respectively, yields estimates within a reasonable range of specific discharge in a small watershed.
Quantitative Estimation of the Domestic Economic Ripple Effect of Foreign Disaster: The Case of China
Authors: Kim Kyunghun , Jung Jaewon , Bae Young Hye , Lee Junhyeong , Kim Hung Soo
Published: December 2021

In the past, damage from natural disasters was limited to the country directly affected, but as the world becomes one economic community, instances of damage spreading to other countries are increasing. Nonetheless, there has been insufficient research on the ripple effect of foreign disaster. This study thus analyzed the ripple effect on the domestic economy from foreign disaster, using a disaster scenario based on cases of China. The ripple effect was quantitatively calculated using an industry input coefficient. The results show that the direct damage was 0.08% of Gross Domestic Product (GDP), and the total amount of damage (including indirect damage) was 0.39% of GDP, thus demonstrating that foreign disaster could cause great damage to the domestic economy.
A Comparative Study of Piers with DSCT and Steel Piles
Authors: Hong Hyemin , Kim Sungwon , Han Taek Hee
Published: December 2021

Because of climate changes, the demand for securing marine space is increasing owing to problems such as sea level rise, design wave height increase, and lack of land and space, and research on the development of a new high-performance pier has been conducted. In the existing pier supported by steel piles, buckling failure and corrosion problems may lead to a risk of structural safety, and maintenance is difficult owing to a narrow span. The new type of double-skinned composite tubular (DSCT) structure, which has been extensively studied recently, is filled with concrete between the inner and outer tubes, increasing the strength of concrete because of the three-axis confined effect. In addition, it is advantageous in terms of ductility. Furthermore, owing to the hollow cross-section, it is economical because it weighs less than the concrete-filled steel tubular (CFT) structure, effectively saving materials. In this study, the performance of a pier with 30 steel piles and that of a pier supported with 20 DSCT piles was compared under the same external force through finite element analysis. Consequently, it was confirmed that the pier with DSCT piles showed higher performance in displacement and stress than the existing pier with steel piles.
Development of Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) Training Model Using Disaster Safety Communication Network Based on Public Safety Long Term Evolution (PS-LTE)
Authors: Lee Sangjik , Park Sung-Geon , Ki Chang-Min , Park Jihong , Jo Hyoun-Jung
Published: December 2021

This study provides information for developing the domestic standard operating procedure (SOP) to CMMI level 3 or higher by presenting the SOP education and training model development process that systematically utilize the PS-LTE-based disaster safety communication network. The survey was conducted with 113 domestic SOP experts. Results revealed that four strategies can minimize the damage to people's lives and property in a national disaster and develop the domestic SOP level to CMMI level 3 or higher-establishment of governance for the SOPs for disaster safety communication networks; training on SOP once a year; establishment of SOP according to the guidelines; and improvement in the technical field. In the future, if SOP develops to CMMI level 3 or higher, it will contribute to the protection of public safety and property from disasters.
Experimental and Numerical Study on the Plume Rising in Stairwell of Buildings
Authors: Kim Doo-young , Kim Jeong-yeop , Ahn Chan-sol
Published: December 2021

In recent years, it has been observed that when a fire occurs in a multi-use facility, a toxic fire smoke rapidly rises through the vertical shaft and spreads due to the chimney effect and hot buoyancy. Generally, the fire smoke spreads rapidly through a number of evacuation passages installed for safe evacuation, which adversely affects an emergency situation. Due to the lack of this knowledge among the occupants, the majority of the occupants are evacuated using the stairwells, getting suffocated by poisonous smoke and suffering serious injuries. The present study considered the fire smoke spreading vertically through the stairwell. For this purpose, the power of the heat source and the area of the ventilation windows connected to the stairwell were modified, and the movement and diffusion of the hot plume rising vertically in the stairwell were observed. For the experiment, a 1/20 scaled-down stairwell model was employed, and the temperature ‘T’ and the vertical velocity ‘w’ of the hot plume rising inside the stairwell were measured using a 60 W-180 W heat source power. Numerical analysis was performed using FDS under similar conditions, and the results were compared with the experimental results.
Caspase‐8 Variant G Regulates Rheumatoid Arthritis Fibroblast‐Like Synoviocyte Aggressive Behavior
Authors: Ansalone Cecilia , Ainsworth Richard I. , Nygaard Gyrid , Ai Rizi , Prideaux Edward B. , Hammaker Deepa , Perumal Narayanan B. , Weichert Ken , Tung Frances , Kodandapani Lalitha , Sauder J. Michael , Mertsching Elisabeth C. , Benschop Robert J. , Boyle David L. , Wang Wei , Firestein Gary S.
Published: December 2021

Objective

Fibroblast‐like synoviocytes (FLS) play a pivotal role in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) by contributing to synovial inflammation and progressive joint damage. An imprinted epigenetic state is associated with the FLS aggressive phenotype. We identified CASP8 (encoding for caspase‐8) as a differentially marked gene and evaluated its pathogenic role in RA FLSs.

Methods

RA FLS lines were obtained from synovial tissues at arthroplasty and used at passage 5‐8. Caspase‐8 was silenced using small interfering RNA, and its effect was determined in cell adhesion, migration and invasion assays. Quantitative reverse transcription PCR and western blot were used to assess gene and protein expression, respectively. A caspase‐8 selective inhibitor was used determine the role of enzymatic activity on FLS migration and invasion. Caspase‐8 isoform transcripts and epigenetic marks in FLSs were analyzed in FLS public databases. Crystal structures of caspase‐8B and G were determined.

Results

Caspase‐8 deficiency in RA FLSs reduced cell adhesion, migration, and invasion independent of its catalytic activity. Epigenetic and transcriptomic analyses of RA FLSs revealed that a specific caspase‐8 isoform, variant G, is the dominant isoform expressed (~80% of total caspase‐8) and induced by PDGF. The crystal structures of caspase‐8 variant G and B were identical except for a unique unstructured 59 amino acid N‐terminal domain in variant G. Selective knockdown of caspase‐8G was solely responsible for the effects of caspase‐8 on calpain activity and cell invasion in FLS.

Conclusion

Blocking caspase‐8 variant G could decrease cell invasion in diseases like RA without the potential deleterious effects of nonspecific caspase‐8 inhibition.
Sewer orientated framework for ensemble‐based chance‐constrained model predictive control
Authors: Lorenz Svensen Jan , Henrik Niemann Hans , Falk Anne Katrine V. , Poulsen Niels K.
Published: December 2021

In this work, we present a framework for ensemble‐based (E) chance‐constrained (CC) model predictive control (MPC) in sewer systems. The framework considers the availability of ensemble forecasts and the difficulties with propagation of distributions; through distribution estimation. Utilizing a case study of the sewer network of the city of Aarhus in Denmark, the performance of the ECC‐MPC framework is evaluated through simulations. The evaluations were based on linear models of the case study and compare the ECC‐MPC performance with the performance of CC‐MPC. Based on the simulations, it was found that the ECC‐MPC performed comparable to the performance of the CC‐MPC, not only in the context of overflow and outflow but also with respect to behavior in response to changes in different aspects of forecast uncertainties. Regarding the aspects, it was found that expectation offset biases in the forecast were affecting the performance of the CC‐ and ECC‐MPC the most. While other aspects only had a reduced effect on the performances, within the ranges tested. With the comparable performances, it was found that ECC‐MPC would work as an alternative approach to CC‐MPC.
Zn Dopants Synergistic Oxygen Vacancy Boosts Ultrathin CoO Layer for CO2 Photoreduction
Authors: Chen Kui , Jiang Tongtong , Liu Tianhu , Yu Jing , Zhou Sheng , Ali Asad , Wang Shuhui , Liu Yu , Zhu Lixin , Xu Xiaoliang
Published: December 2021

Photoreduction of CO2 without photosensitizers and scavengers runs into the development bottleneck for lack of excellent photocatalysts and ambiguous reduction mechanism. Herein, an ultrathin CoO layer containing Zn‐dopants and O‐vacancies (Vo‐Zn‐CoO) is designed as an archetype to explore the influence mechanism of Zn on O‐vacancies in ultrathin nanolayer for CO2 photoreduction. DFT calculations illustrate that Zn‐dopants not only reduce formation barriers of *COOH and *CO intermediates, but also form π‐back‐bonding with *CO stimulating CH4 evolution. Finally, Vo‐Zn‐CoO layer significantly enhances CO2 photoreduction efficiency and CH4 selectivity with 26.8 µmol g−1 h−1 (63.8%) compared to 7.2 µmol g−1 h−1 (23.6%) for CoO layer with O‐vacancies. Moreover, the synergistic effect of Zn and O‐vacancies benefits the stability of O‐vacancies in photocatalysts, achieving durable photocatalytic performance of Vo‐Zn‐CoO layer. This work manifests that the strategy of metal atoms synergistic O‐vacancies is effective to optimize CO2 photocatalytic efficiency, selectivity, and stability of photocatalyst with O‐vacancies.
Enhanced Condensation on Soft Materials through Bulk Lubricant Infusion
Authors: Sharma Chander Shekhar , Milionis Athanasios , Naga Abhinav , Lam Cheuk Wing Edmond , Rodriguez Gabriel , Del Ponte Marco Francesco , Negri Valentina , Raoul Hopf , D'Acunzi Maria , Butt Hans‐Jürgen , Vollmer Doris , Poulikakos Dimos
Published: December 2021

Soft substrates enhance droplet nucleation during water vapor condensation because their deformability inherently reduces the energetic threshold for heterogeneous nucleation relative to rigid substrates. However, this enhancement is counteracted later in the condensation cycle, when substrate viscoelastic dissipation inhibits condensate droplet shedding. Here a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) based organogel is designed to overcome this limitation. It is shown that merely 5% bulk lubricant infusion in PDMS reduces viscoelastic dissipation in the substrate by nearly 28 times while doubling the droplet nucleation density. Parameters for water condensation on this organogel are correlated with material properties controlled by design, i.e., fraction and composition of uncrosslinked chains and shear modulus. It is demonstrated that the increase in nucleation density and reduction in precoalescence droplet growth rate is rather insensitive to the lubricant percentage in PDMS within the broad range investigated. These results indicate the presence of a lubricant layer on the substrate surface that cloaks the growing condensate droplets. This cloaking effect is visualized, and it is shown that cloaking occurs significantly faster on PDMS if it is infused with bulk lubricant. Overall, bulk lubricant infusion in PDMS enhances condensation and leads to a more than 40% higher dewing on the substrate.
Improved Energy Storage Properties Achieved in (K, Na)NbO3‑Based Relaxor Ferroelectric Ceramics via a Combinatorial Optimization Strategy
Authors: Li Da , Zhou Di , Wang Dong , Zhao Weichen , Guo Yan , Shi Zhongqi
Published: December 2021

Although ceramic dielectric materials have been extensively explored owing to their numerous advantages, there are still obstacles in the collaborative enhancement of recoverable energy density (Wrec) and efficiency (η). In this work, a combinatorial optimization strategy is proposed to optimize energy storage properties of (K, Na)NbO3‐based ceramics, that is, drive a specific temperature region between the temperature of maximum dielectric constant and the Burns temperature to room temperature under the guidance of phase field simulation to induce the polar nanoregions, then further improve the breakdown strength by repeated rolling process. As a result, an ultrahigh Wrec of 6.7 J cm−3 and a high η of 92% at 600 kV cm−1 are achieved simultaneously in the 0.85K0.5Na0.5NbO3‐0.15Bi(Zn2/3Ta1/3)O3 ceramic prepared by repeated rolling process, together with excellent temperature stability under 400 kV cm−1 over a temperature range of 25 to 150 °C, outperforming all reported (K, Na)NbO3‐based energy storage ceramics. This approach should also be generalizable for designing high‐performance dielectrics for electrical energy storage applications.
A Lesion Microenvironment‐Responsive Fungicide Nanoplatform for Crop Disease Prevention and Control
Authors: Wang Chao‐Yi , Jia Chengguo , Zhang Ming‐Zhe , Yang Song , Qin Jian‐Chun , Yang Ying‐Wei
Published: December 2021

Controlled fungicide delivery in response to the specific microenvironment produced by fungal pathogens is an advisable strategy to improve the efficacy of fungicides. Herein, the authors construct a smart fungicide nanoplatform, using mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) as nanocarriers loaded with eugenol (EU) and Ag+ coordinated polydopamine (Ag+‐PDA) as a coating to form Ag+‐PDA@MSNs‐EU NPs for Botrytis cinerea (B. cinerea) control. As a botanical fungicide, EU offers an eco‐friendly alternative to synthetic fungicides and can upregulate several defense‐related genes in the tomato plant. The Ag+‐PDA coating can lock the EU inside the nanocarriers and respond to the oxalic acid produced by B. cinerea to corelease the loaded EU and Ag+. The results demonstrate that Ag+‐PDA@MSNs‐EU NPs can effectively inhibit the mycelial growth of B. cinerea on detached and potted tomato leaves. The construction of such a smart fungicide nanoplatform provides new guidance to design controlled fungicides release systems, which can respond to the microenvironment associated with plant pathogen to realize fungus control.
Ultrasensitive and Broad‐Spectrum Photodetectors Based on InSe/ReS2 Heterostructure
Authors: Ma Haixin , Xing Yanhui , Han Jun , Cui Boyao , Lei Ting , Tu Huayao , Guan Baolu , Zeng Zhongming , Zhang Baoshun , Lv Weiming
Published: December 2021

Photogating effect based on vertical structure of 2D materials allows for the realization of a highly sensitive photodetector. A highly sensitive and broad‐spectrum (365–965 nm) photodetector is reported based on the indium selenide (InSe)/rhenium disulfide (ReS2) vertical heterostructure, where the top layer InSe serves as the photogate to regulate the channel current, enabling a large photoconductive gain of 106. The detectivity of the photodetector can reach 6.51 × 1013 Jones, making this one of the highest values among reported transition metal dichalcogenide photodetectors. The photodetector represents a high responsivity of 1921 A W−1, an ultrahigh external quantum efficiency (EQE) of 6.53 × 105%, and a fast response time of 21.6 ms. The outstanding properties of the InSe/ReS2 heterojunction reveal the promising potential in high‐efficient, ultrasensitive, broadband photodetectors.
Inverted Nonfullerene Polymer Solar Cells with Photoannealed Cs2CO3 Films as Electron Extraction Layers
Authors: Liu Zhiyong , Wang Hong‐En
Published: December 2021

This paper successfully demonstrates that solution‐processable cesium carbonate (Cs2CO3) and photoannealing treatments can be used to replace thermal annealing treatments. The power conversion efficiency (PCE) is quite low in the initial stage, while the PCE dramatically increases following continuous light illumination and reaches a saturated state after 15 min of light illumination. Raman spectra and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) are then used to show that the Cs2CO3 molecule decomposes and transforms into a mixture of cesium oxide (CsOX), which is the major constituent of cesium oxide (Cs2O), and small amounts of cesium dioxide (Cs2O2) and cesium oxide (CsO2). In addition, following the spin coating of a fresh Cs2CO3 solution onto the indium tin oxide surface and 15 min of photoannealing, polymer solar cells show improved photovoltaic performance compared with the use of thermally annealed Cs2CO3 and ZnO films as the electron extraction layer.
Ultrastable Orthorhombic Na2TiSiO5 Anode for Lithium‐Ion Battery
Authors: Zhao Shu , He Di , Wu Tianhao , Wang Lihang , Yu Haijun
Published: December 2021

Lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) play an important role in the storage of electrical energy in modern society, and there is an urgent need to develop anode materials that can meet the ever‐increasing demand for high energy density. The use of titanosilicate anode materials in high‐performance LIBs has attracted great attention due to their proper potential between graphite and Li4Ti5O12. A novel anode material prepared by an electrospinning method, orthorhombic Na2TiSiO5 (O‐NTSO) shows excellent cycle stability (capacity retention after 1000 cycles is 97.8%) and a usable reversible capacity (230 mAh g−1 at 50 mA g−1) with a safe average storage voltage of 0.8 V. The specific capacity of O‐NTSO is constituted by both capacitive and diffusion behavior. As a new member of the silicate anode materials, this orthorhombic Na2TiSiO5 has excellent electrochemical performance and is a promising LIB anode material with long cycle stability.
Highly Safe, Durable, Adaptable, and Flexible Fuel Cell Using Gel/Sponge Composite Material
Authors: Zou Siyi , Li Yali , Jin Hanqing , Ning Fandi , Xu Pengpeng , Wen Qinglin , Pan Saifei , Dan Xiong , Li Wei , Zhou Xiaochun
Published: December 2021

With the rapid development of portable and wearable electronics, safety concerns over flexible energy devices are inevitable. Therefore, it is important to develop energy supplies that are safe for use. In this work, a highly safe, durable, adaptable, and flexible air‐breathing direct methanol fuel cell (DMFC) is successfully prepared by synthesizing and applying a new composite material with agar gel and wood sponge, that is, a gel/sponge composite. The gel/sponge composite has a high absorption rate, high cyclic performance, high methanol absorption capacity, high energy content, and high flexibility. Moreover, the gel/sponge composite with 1.5% agar gel retains approximately 90% of the methanol solution at a pressure of 29.4 kPa, and the areal energy density of the proposed DMFC approaches 13.7 mWh cm−2. Both the single‐cell and stack of DMFC with the new composite material successfully survive a series of destructive tests, including needle penetration, cutting, and compression. Therefore, it is successfully demonstrated that absorbent materials can greatly boost the safety, adaptability, flexibility, and energy density of air‐breathing DMFCs. Furthermore, this concept shows promise in improving the safety of other fuel cells by using absorbent materials to solidify their gaseous or liquid fuels.
Au/TiO2 2D‐Photonic Crystals as UV–Visible Photocatalysts for H2 Production
Authors: Torras Miquel , Molet Pau , Soler Lluís , Llorca Jordi , Roig Anna , Mihi Agustín
Published: December 2021

Noble metal decoration of wideband gap semiconductors enables the excitation of surface plasmons in the visible range that upon relaxation generate hot carriers used for catalysis. However, this strategy leads to photocatalytic conversion efficiencies that are still low. Here, a light‐trapping scheme is used to amplify the light‐harvesting efficiency of the TiO2 semiconductor beyond the UV region by coupling a 2D‐photonic crystal to Au decorated titania. This approach is easily scalable using soft nanoimprinting lithography to prepare Au/TiO2 2D‐photonic photocatalysts. In a first process, gold nanoparticles (Au NPs) are in situ infiltrated in the superficial 50 nm of a mesoporous titania (mTiO2) scaffold patterned with the photonic structure, while in a second one 2D‐photonic crystals with a homogeneous volume distribution of the Au colloids are achieved. The dependence of the optical properties of the photonic crystals on the lattice parameter, geometry, and metal loading is presented through extinction measurements and analyzed through simulations. The improved photocatalytic performance of the substrates is tested for hydrogen production where a maximum of 8.5 mmol gcat−1 h−1 of H2 is recorded and attributed to photonic–plasmonic effects. These results may open new avenues in solar harvesting for hydrogen production using photonic crystals as photocatalysts.
Impact of seasonal and meteorological factors on the incidence of adhesive small bowel obstruction: A large‐scale study using a national inpatient database
Authors: Yamamoto Yuta , Kitazawa Masato , Otsubo Tetsuya , Miyagawa Yusuke , Tokumaru Shigeo , Nakamura Satoshi , Koyama Makoto , Ehara Takehito , Hondo Nao , Soejima Yuji
Published: December 2021

Aim

Whether seasonal and meteorological factors affect the incidence of adhesive small bowel obstruction (ASBO) remains unclear. This study aimed to clarify the impacts of seasonal and meteorological factors on the occurrence of ASBO.

Methods

Clinical data of patients with ASBO were acquired from 42 national university hospitals in Japan, using a national inpatient database, between April 2012 and March 2020. Meteorological data were obtained from the Japan Meteorological Agency. The number of monthly admissions of patients with ASBO was compared between each of the 12 months. Daily weather variables were investigated to clarify their association with ASBO patient admissions on a total of 119 802 days (Formula for calculation: study period [2922 days] ×41 cities).

Results

Overall, 4985 patients with ASBO were admitted. The number of admissions in June was smaller than that in October, November, and December (39 vs 63.5, P = .002, 39 vs 65, P = .004, and 39 vs 59.5, P = .002, respectively). Logistic regression analysis revealed that January, October, November, and December were associated with increased risk of admission compared to June (odds ratio [OR], 1.264; P = .001; OR, 1.454; P < .001; OR, 1.408; P < .001; OR, 1.330; P < .001), respectively. Regarding the weather variables, higher barometric pressure and lower humidity were associated with increased risk of admission (OR, 1.011; P < .001 and OR, 0.995; P < .001), respectively.

Conclusion

The incidence of ASBO is susceptible to barometric pressure and humidity and varies monthly. These results can contribute to the prevention, early detection, and immediate and appropriate management of ASBO.
The Assembly and Jamming of Nanoparticle Surfactants at Liquid–Liquid Interfaces
Authors: Wang Beibei , Yin Bangqi , Zhang Zhao , Yin Yixuan , Yang Yang , Wang Haiqiao , Russell Thomas P. , Shi Shaowei
Published: December 2021

Using the interactions between nanoparticles (NPs) and polymeric ligands to generate nanoparticle surfactants (NPSs) at the liquid–liquid interface, the binding energy of the NP to the interface can be significantly increased, irreversibly binding the NPSs to the interface. By designing a simplified NPS model, where the NP size can be precisely controlled and the characteristic fluorescence of the NPs be used as a direct probe of their spatial distribution, we provide new insights into the attachment mechanism of NPSs at the liquid–liquid interface. We find that the binding energy of NPSs to the interface can be reduced by competitive ligands, resulting in the dissociation and disassembly of NPSs at the interface, and allowing the construction of responsive, reconfigurable all‐liquid systems. Smaller NPSs that are loosely packed (unjammed) and irreversibly bound to the interface can be displaced by larger NPSs, giving rise to a size‐dependent assembly of NPSs at the interface. However, when the smaller size NPSs are densely packed and jam at the interface, the size‐dependent assembly of NPSs at the interface can be completely suppressed.
Utilization of brown alga (Sargassum plagiophyllum) as an efficient reinforcement material for application in wheat gluten biocomposites
Authors: Kachaanun Punyawee , Numnuam Apon , Mayakun Jaruwan , Kaewtatip Kaewta
Published: December 2021

In this work, brown alga (Sargassum plagiophyllum) was utilized as a reinforcement material to produce wheat gluten (WG) biocomposites. The effect of brown alga powder (BP) content and sonication treatments of BP on the properties of the obtained WG biocomposites were characterized. Adding 1 wt% BP to WG increased the tensile strength by 77% compared to neat WG and could delay the degradation process of the WG biocomposites due to the good interaction between BP and the WG matrix. When the time and amplitude of BP sonication was increased, the tensile strength of the obtained WG biocomposites slightly decreased, but still remained higher than the tensile strength of the neat WG. Therefore, this work presents an efficient reinforcement material and a potential treatment process to produce promising alternative biocomposites for the production of environment friendly materials.