bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Patient Handoff: relationship between internal communication and the role of teamwork in the services of the Hospital de Clínicas José de San Martín
Authors: López Ingrid del Carmen , Valdés Rojas Juan Celestino , Vasallo Valverde Jennifer Caridad , López Suárez Rosbelys , Ares Laura Camila
Published: June 2022

Introduction: the on-call pass is one of the means of coordination within each service that is used to schedule, manage and evaluate patient care.
Objective: to describe the behavior of variables of the perception of nursing human resources on the quality of internal communication in on-call duty and the modalities of teamwork.
Methods: an observational, descriptive, cross-sectional study was carried out. The sample consisted of 71 units of analysis. A semi-structured, self-administered questionnaire was used.
Results: in relation to knowledge about internal communication during on-call duty, positive responses prevailed, with the Teamwork indicator standing out with 94,4 % of positive responses (p=0,006). Positive attitudes related to internal communication during the on-call duty shift dominated, with a predominance of strategic vision and complementarity with 99 % positivity each (p<0,001). In relation to practices in the on-call pass; all responses resulted negative above 70 % (p<0,001), highlighting Performance evaluation over Internal communication with 90 % negativity.
Conclusions: most professionals show knowledge of the dimensions of internal communication by virtue of teamwork. The attitudinal aspect of the nursing human resources showed favorable aspects to the on-call pass in relation to internal communication, considering criteria such as strategic vision, teamwork, responsibility, face-to-face transmission and confidentiality
Impact of a quality management model of an immunization service of the Hospital de Alta Complejidad El Cruce
Authors: Roussel Patricia Adriana
Published: June 2022

Introduction: The horizontal integration of health services can be strengthened through process management that makes it possible to conceive how to work through systems that cross departmental, service and functional boundaries, by showing the internal relationships of users and providers.
Objective: To describe the results of the implementation of the quality management model in the vaccination center of the Hospital el Cruce during the period 2015-2016 compared to subsequent periods (2017-2018).
Methods: An analytical, non-experimental study was conducted in health systems and services at the Hospital de Alta Complejidad en Red El Cruce, comprising the evaluation of care quality indicators in the period from 2015 to 2018, a longitudinal and retrospective approach.
Results: 57.7% (75) were female and 42.3% (55) were male. Using Spearman's test found only in the case of time and quality of care a statistically significant negative correlation. When it was analyzed that the number of doses discarded by years, in the second period (2017-2018) specifically in 2018 no doses were discarded in any of the vaccines, and secondly in 10 vaccines were not discarded in both periods.
Conclusions: The results of the evaluation with a focus on improving the quality of care were evidenced. The multidimensional analysis provided relevant information that helped to find the causes that allowed the setting of objectives, possible solutions to the problem, as well as the evaluation of improvements.
 
Keywords: Vaccination Coverage; Immunization Schedule; Immunization Programs; Vaccination; Health Services Administration; Quality of Health Care; Health Services Coverage; Health Services Research; Public Health Systems
The Effect of Trust, Tax Rates and Tax Awareness on the Compliance Level of MSME Taxpayers at KPP Pratama Batam Selatan
Authors: Taufan Maulamin  , Joni
Published: June 2022

Since the discovery of the Corona virus in Indonesia, economic growth has contracted at 2.97% and 5.32% respectively in the first and second quarters of 2020. Indonesia has just emerged from recession starting in the 3rd quarter with economic growth of 5.05%. But overall, in 2020 the Indonesian economy fell 2.07% compared to the previous years which was stable at 5% (BPS, 2021). This decline in economic growth has had a significant economic impact. In 2020 and 2021, several times the government implemented Large-Scale Social Restrictions (PPKM) so that many businesses, both small and large scale, felt the impact, and even closed their businesses. This systematic impact also affects state revenues from the tax sector. Targeted tax revenues according to Presidential Decree No. 72 of 2020, The Directorate General of Taxes (DGT) of the Ministry of Finance of Rp. 1,198.82 trillion has only realized Rp. 1,069.98 trillion or 89.25%. State revenues from the tax sector long before the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic actually tended to be low. One sector that contributes to state tax revenues that should be large but far from the target is the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector. Registered MSMEs have a TIN (Setiawan, 2020). Therefore, it is not surprising that the tax contribution from the final PPh of MSME taxpayers is only around Rp. 7.5 trillion or approximately 1.1% of the total income tax revenue. State revenues from the tax sector long before the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic actually tended to be low. One sector that contributes to state tax revenues that should be large but far from the target is the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector. Registered MSMEs have a TIN (Setiawan, 2020). Therefore, it is not surprising that the tax contribution from the final PPh of MSME taxpayers is only around Rp. 7.5 trillion or approximately 1.1% of the total income tax revenue. State revenues from the tax sector long before the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic actually tended to be low. One sector that contributes to state tax revenues that should be large but far from the target is the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector. Registered MSMEs have a TIN (Setiawan, 2020). Therefore, it is not surprising that the tax contribution from the final PPh of MSME taxpayers is only around Rp. 7.5 trillion or approximately 1.1% of the total income tax revenue.
Psychological Factors Associated With Sexual Dysfunction in Men on Methadone Maintenance Treatment
Authors: Bakhshani Nour-Mohammad , Karimi Zeinab , Mojahed Azizollah , Lavvaf Arani Mohammad Javad , Ayubi Erfan
Published: June 2022

Background: Psychological problems are common among drug users. However, a few studies have investigated the role of psychological factors, including depression, anxiety, and childhood trauma, on sexual dysfunction in MMT patients. Objectives: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of sexual dysfunction and the role of psychological factors, including anxiety, depression, and childhood trauma, on the sexual function of patients on MMT. Patients and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 100 MMT patients were selected by convenience sampling among patients referring to Baharan Psychiatric Hospital, Zahedan, Iran. All participants completed self-report questionnaires, including the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II), Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (CTQ), and International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-15). Statistical analysis was done with Pearson correlation coefficients, and stepwise linear regression models determined the predictors of sexual function. Results: Seventeen percent of participants reported various degrees of sexual dysfunction. Child sexual abuse and depression were significant predictors of sexual dysfunction. The regression analysis showed that 12% of the variance of sexual dysfunction (R2 = 0.12; F = 6.61; P < 0.002) was predicted by an experience of childhood sexual abuse and depression. Conclusions: People on MMT suffer from psychological problems as the risk factors for sexual dysfunction. Thus, mental health care staff should consider psychological factors to prevent and treat sexual dysfunction.
COVID-19 Pandemic and Caregiving of Old Adults with Chronic Nervous System Disease
Authors: Mohamadi Ferizi Malihe , Aali Shahrbanoo , Bigdeli Imanollah , Rezaeitalab Fariborz , Moradi Tavalaei Arezoo
Published: June 2022

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic and the concomitant quarantine have significantly reduced old adults’ independence in doing daily or functional activities. Thus, they require more support and help at home. Because of the effect of the disease’s progression and the adverse effects of quarantine on patients’ functional status, old adults’ caregivers might have been affected too. Objectives: The present research aimed to explore the role of the caregiving burden in the relationship between old adults’ functional status and caregivers’ mental health. Methods: The research population comprised caregiver families of old adults afflicted with chronic nervous diseases during the pandemic. To this aim, a sample of 249 caregiver families of old adults suffering from Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, or stroke participated in this study. Data were collected using three online questionnaires of Lawton’s instrumental activities of daily living scale (IADL), Novak’s caregiver burden inventory, and Goldberg’s mental health questionnaire. Data analysis was administered by Pearson’s correlation coefficient and structural equation modeling (SEM). Results: Correlation analysis and SEM results showed that the patients’ functional status and caregivers’ mental health had a significant, positive correlation, which was mediated by the caregiving burden variable. Conclusions: It can be concluded that better functional status of old adults can lead to a lower caregiving burden. Also, it can significantly improve caregivers’ mental health and increase the old adults’ and caregivers’ quality of life.
Effectiveness of Interventional Studies on Type 2 Diabetes: A Decade Systematic Review
Authors: Pooresmaeil Dorosteh Ameneh , Ghaffari Mohtasham , Rakhshanderou Sakineh
Published: June 2022

Context: Educational interventions on type 2 diabetes can have life-saving effects. A closer analysis of studies in this area contributes to well-designed interventions. Objectives: We surveyed the effectiveness of interventional studies on type 2 diabetes in the last decade. Data Sources: The research papers were obtained from PubMed, Science Direct, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, SID, and Magiran for Persian and English language studies between 2010 and 2019. The PRISMA checklist was used to select the studies for systematic reviews. Study Selection: The criteria for article selection were experimental studies, quasi-experimental studies, clinical trials, and pre-treatment and post-treatment observations. Also, the exclusion criteria were case studies, short articles, cross-sectional studies, descriptive and analytic studies, letters to the editor, and systematic review papers. Finally, 24 studies (out of 1,374) were entered in our study. Data Extraction: An interventional study checklist was used to report the standard of studies: (1) consolidated standards of reporting trials with 25 items; (2) checklist for experimental design with nine items; (3) checklist for quasi-experimental studies with nine items; and (4) transparent reporting of evaluations with non-randomized designs with 22 items. Results: Twenty-four research papers entered the final analysis. Most studies were clinical trials with the intervention period ranging from one to 12 months. Patients were usually selected as the participants. The education interventions in most studies were lectures, questions/answers, group discussions, brainstorming, photo/film/slide display, group teaching, individual training, individual counseling, and group counseling. The main focus of the interventions was on physical activity and diet, with positive effects. Conclusions: Most interventions made on type 2 diabetes variables had positive effects. Therefore, it is recommended that in addition to diet and physical activity, other factors of type 2 diabetes be considered in educational interventions. Also, the most effective and appropriate teaching methods should be considered to prevent and control this disease.
Polymorphisms of dtxR Gene of Corynebacterium diphtheriae Isolated from Diphtheria Outbreak in Indonesia
Authors: Fitriana Fitriana , Amalia Novi , Hartoyo Yudi , Nursofiah Sundari , Puspandari Nelly , Khariri Khariri , Sariadji Kambang , Muna Fauzul , Rukminiati Yuni , Rizki Aulia , Febriyana Dwi , Febrianti Tati , Susanti Ida , Saraswati Ratih Dian , Sunarno Sunarno
Published: June 2022

Background: In Corynebacterium diphtheriae, the dtxR gene plays a role in regulating diphtheria toxin synthesis. The dtxR gene is often used as a marker for identifying C. diphtheriae by the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method because it is present in all strains of this bacterium. Mutations in the dtxR gene can cause the over-synthesis of diphtheria toxin and reduce PCR assays' sensitivity. Objectives: This study aimed to describe the polymorphisms in the dtxR gene of C. diphtheriae isolated from a diphtheria outbreak in Indonesia. Methods: Forty-eight isolates of C. diphtheriae were obtained from clinical samples (throat/nasopharyngeal swabs) of diphtheria cases and close contacts. The isolates were revived on a blood agar plate (BAP), bacterial colonies were harvested, and deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) was extracted. The DNA sequencing was carried out using a Whole-genome Sequencing (WGS) approach. The data were converted and analyzed with U-gene software. The dtxR gene analysis was performed with C. diphtheriae PW8 as references. Results: There were 59-point mutation locations in 48 isolates examined. None of these single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) coded for amino acid changes. Based on the mutation pattern, seven clades/groups of the dtxR gene of 48 C. diphtheriae isolates were examined. Conclusions: At least seven types of DNA sequences and more than 50 SNPs of the dtxR gene were identified in 48 C. diphtheriae isolates from a diphtheria outbreak in Indonesia. Although all of them are silent mutations, they must be considered in the design of PCR examination in diphtheria laboratories.
Fetal Ultrasonography Versus Echocardiography in Prenatal Diagnosis of Congenital Heart Disease
Authors: Ghiasi Shirin Sadat , Mottaghi Moghaddam Shahri Hassan , Heidari Elahe , Danesh Ladan
Published: June 2022

Background: To evaluate the ability in initial prenatal diagnosis of congenital heart disease (CHD), the most common considerable and also fatal congenital disorder. It can be achieved by ultrasound (US) or echocardiography (FE) which are performed by radiologists and pediatric cardiologists, respectively. Objectives: The study aimed to compare the results, confirm the modality that promotes the effectiveness of final diagnosis and optimize its management. Methods: A retrospective cross-sectional study on referred pregnant women was conducted in Imam Reza hospital, Mashhad, Iran from 2012 to 2019. Fetal echocardiography was performed by one skilled professional which was compared to ultrasound anomaly scan reports of the same fetuses. Data were analyzed using statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS) ver. 18. The categorical variables were demonstrated as percentages and the agreement between two methods was evaluated by Cohen’s kappa coefficient (K > 0.4, P < 0.05 as significant cut-off). The sensitivity and specialty, as well as the accuracy, positive and negative predictive values, were all calculated. Results: Out of 312 examinations of fetuses, 56 cases were Major cardiac diseases and 62 were Minor cases. FE discovered that 14 out of 33 normal US cases were abnormal. In addition, the US considered 52 cases as structural cardiac abnormalities, of which only 34 cases were verified by FE. The most prevalent cardiac anomaly discovered by FE was the intra-cardiac echogenic focus (12.17%), compared to 7.05% of US diagnoses. The methods considered VSD the most common major, septal CHD with different quantities. The US overdiagnosed 71.4% of cases, whereas underdiagnosed 87.5% of VSDs. The US was unable to detect 11 out of 13 complex-CHDs (84.61%). Except for one percent, the US did not report AVSD. Arrhythmia was detected in 37 cases, with the US correctly diagnosing six of them. The US underdiagnosed 35 major (mostly septal defects 45%) and 26 minor structural cases; additionally, the US overdiagnosed 10 minor and 7 major cases. The methods agreed with the content of 11.53% of the CHD diagnosis. The sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of the US method in comparison to FE for CHD diagnosis were calculated 62%, 74.2%, and 68.7% respectively. The positive and negative predictive values were 66.1% and 70.27%, respectively. Conclusions: There was a significant correlation between the results of US and FE, but there was no significant agreement in definite diagnosis, particularly for major CHDs. Although the FE is still the best modality; the US by expert sonographers is so contributory and a screening method. It is recommended to do FE at least once during pregnancy, but it is not currently accepted according to the updated guidelines.
Optimal Planning of Electric Vehicle Charging Station along with Multiple Distributed Generator Units
Authors:   Dept. of E.E.E, Sri Venkateswara University, Tirupati-517502, Andhra Pradesh, India, Chippada Devisree , Reddy M. Damodar
Published: June 2022

Saving energy through the minimization of power losses in a distribution system is a key activity for efficient operation. Distributed Generation (DG) is one of the most efficient approaches to minimize losses. With increase in installation of Electric Vehicle Charging Stations (EVCSs) for Electrical Vehicles (EVs) in larger scale, optimal planning of EVCSs becomes a major challenge for distribution system operator. With increased EV load penetration in the electricity system, generation-demand mismatch and power losses increases. This results in poor voltage level, and deterioration in voltage stability margin. To mitigate the adverse impacts of increasing EV load penetration on Radial Distribution Systems (RDS), it is essential to integrate EVCSs at appropriate locations. The EVs integration into smart distribution systems involves Grid-to-Vehicle (G2V) and Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) in charging and discharging modes of operation respectively for exchange of power with the grid thus resulting in energy management. The inappropriate planning of EVCSs causes a negative impact on the distribution system such as voltage deviation and an increase in power losses. In order to minimize this, DG units are integrated with EVCSs. The DGs assist in keeping the voltage profile within limitations, resulting in reduced power flows and losses, thereby enhancing power quality and reliability. Therefore, the DGs should be optimally allocated and sized along with the EVCS to avoid problems such as protection, voltage rise, and reverse power flow problems. This paper showcases a method to minimize losses using optimal location and sizing of multiple DGs and EVCS operating in G2V and V2G modes. The sizing and location of different types of DG units including renewables and non-renewables along with EV charging station is proposed in this study. This methodology overall reduces the power losses and also improves voltages of the network. The implementation is done by using the Simultaneous Particle Swarm Optimization technique (PSO) for IEEE 15, 33, 69 and 85 bus systems. The results indicate that the proposed optimization technique improves efficiency and performance of the system by optimal planning and operation of both DGs and EVs.
Processos locais e História Global no estudo da Raia do Baixo Guadiana (Portugal e Espanha)
Authors: Albuquerque Pedro , García Fernández Francisco José
Published: June 2022

O presente trabalho analisa questões relativas à aplicação das recentes metodologias do estudo da História Global aos territórios fronteiriços, valorizando a sua apetência para o desenvolvimento de relações sociais singulares e de interconexões. Este estudo centra-se, sobretudo, no Baixo Guadiana, que separa parcialmente dois países (Portugal e Espanha), assinalando-se a sua permeabilidade e o modo como, ao longo do tempo e do espaço, se desenvolveram processos locais que fazem com que as fronteiras possam ser um objecto de estudo idóneo para a História Global.
Palavras-chave: história comparada; estudos de fronteira; arqueologia; património cultural
Latin America in the global exchange of the German Hygiene Museum in Dresden (1919-1930)
Authors: Muñoz Pedro Felipe , Rinke Stefan
Published: June 2022

In 1912, Karl Lingner created the German Hygiene Museum Dresden profiting from the Dresden International Hygiene Exhibition 1911. Lingner aimed to build a permanent building for the museum, but due to the Great War and post-war economic crisis in Germany, the permanent building was not opened until 1930. In the Weimar Republic, the museum circulated internationally through traveling exhibitions and the sale and donation of collections and exhibits. This circulation comprised a global exchange promoting health education that included Latin America. In keeping with German foreign cultural policy of the period, the German Hygiene Museum played an active role in the transatlantic cultural relations and the German-Latin American exchange, functioning as "a cultural propaganda institute". In this article, we explore the transnational circulation of objects and collections between Dresden and Latin America which was also associated with international efforts to promote public health.
Keywords: Public Health; Health Education; Cultural Propaganda; German-Latin American Relations; Transnational and Global History.
The Kafkaesque and the Absurd – Fear and Hope in the Writings of Franz Kafka and Albert Camus
Authors: Straehler-Pohl Lars
Published: June 2022

The world remains silent on the existential questions of human life. This existential silence is the defining moment both in the philosophy of Albert Camus and in the literary work of Franz Kafka. Silence manifests itself in the absurd as well as in the Kafkaesque, but those two perspectives differ in their implications with respect to hope. Kafka’s main protagonists in his three big novels are marked by the fluctuation between hope and fear. The uncertainty of their fate contrasts with the relative stability of Camus’s figures within his philosophy of the absurd. In contrast to prior research, the mythical figure of Sisyphus is here prominently considered. Sisyphus is without hope, whereas Josef K. (The Trial) is bound to it as to fear itself. The comparison of the two figures deviates from the classical analyses of Politzer (1960), Darzins (1960), Gillon (1961) and Bryant (1969), but also from newer approaches such as Viqez Jimenez (2017). Although the topic of hope has been analysed in some of these works, the article stresses the importance of hope in a terminological triplet. It examines hope, fear and silence in a philosophical perspective as a general approach to the Absurd and the Kafkaesque.
A lonely man in the desert: on the question of the existence in the virtual world
Authors: Yurieva Alla Vasil'evna
Published: June 2022

The object of research of this article is the existential experience of a person in a virtual space, realized in the phenomenon of loneliness. The subject of the study is the refraction of the desert metaphor in relation to the virtual world. As you know, the development of modern information technologies has led to a change in the existential coordinates of a person, therefore, immersion in the virtual space for the current generation is becoming more and more relevant, and sometimes replacing many real events. The question of the interaction of man and technology acquires contradictory facets, because the threat of total convergence of virtuality and reality no longer seems so mythical. It is these provisions that force us to reconsider the position of a person in the modern world and try to assess this. The paper attempts to analyze the existential space of the virtual world of man through the metaphor of the desert. As a result, we can conclude first of all, that the natural desire of an individual to be in society can be perfectly realized in the virtual world, but it turns into an increased attention of the individual to himself (the need to satisfy his virtual requests), which leads him to a feeling of loneliness. And secondly, applying the metaphor of the desert to the virtual space, we see that it hides the context of solitude, care, to find answers to many questions. A person in the virtual world sees himself through the prism of his request into the virtual void, sometimes without even waiting for an answer to it, which once again confirms the idea of some kind of existential experience of loneliness in the Internet space. The scientific novelty of the work lies in the application of the metaphor of the desert to the existential space of the virtual world.
Formation of new phraseologisms as word creation
Authors: Minova Mariya Vladimirovna , Mamukina Galina Ivanovna , Kazimirova Irina Sergeevna , Dolgova Elena Gennad'evna , Fedorova Anna Valer'evna
Published: June 2022

This article is devoted to the review of the main ways of increasing the phraseological units of the language in the context of word creation. The purpose of this article is to study phraseological neologisms as one of the forms of word creation in the lexical system of English, Spanish, French and Russian languages, as well as to identify the main trends in the formation and functioning of new phraseological units. The research is based on lexicographic, descriptive, comparative methods, as well as lexico-semantic analysis and the continuous sampling method. The peculiarities of the formation of phraseological neologisms are illustrated by numerous examples in English, Spanish, French and Russian from modern media, blogs and social networks. The scientific novelty of the research lies in an integrated approach to the study of linguistic and extralinguistic factors influencing the emergence of new phraseologisms in different languages. Phraseological neologisms can either be an integral part of the vocabulary of a particular language, or have only a temporary, momentary, occasional character. The conducted research has shown that in the creation of new phraseologisms, certain samples are most often used, and the most productive ways are borrowing phraseological units, the formation of new phraseologisms by analogy and the creation of author's phraseological neologisms. Of particular interest are cases when the source of new phraseologisms are the titles of books and films, as well as the lyrics of songs.
The specifics of the pronoun "we" as an instrument of author's self-identification in new youth media (based on podcasts)
Authors: Karpov Ernest Sergeevich , Murzina Ol'ga Viktorovna , Gegelova Natal'ya Sergeevna , Balashova Kristina Aleksandrovna
Published: June 2022

The subject of the study is the specifics of the functioning of the pronoun "we" in the self-presentation of authors and presenters of modern podcasts. The object of the study is a semantic shift in the profile of this pronoun, due to the increasing popularity of the podcast as a genre. The authors consider in detail such aspects of the topic as the differentiation of the inclusive and exclusive pronoun "we" and the distinction within the inclusive meaning of extended and nuclear inclusiveness. Particular attention is paid to the implementation of extended inclusion in various podcasts and tracing the trend of expansion of this form in the speech of the presenter. The texts of various podcasts focused on children and youth audience are considered. The main conclusion of the study is the statement of the increasing role of the extended inclusive semantic version of "we" in modern Russian media, as well as the distinction according to linguistic criteria between the genre of podcast and radio. A special contribution of the authors to the study of the topic is the analysis of the contexts of the use of the pronoun "we" and its derivatives in modern podcasts and the generalization of the patterns of its use. The novelty of the research lies in the study of changes in the semantic profile of the pronoun "we" on the example of podcasting: previously, such studies were conducted only in relation to children's radio shows, podcasts, despite their increasing popularity with the audience, are practically not analyzed in terms of linguistic content and influence on the linguistic landscape of the modern Russian language.
Determination and Correlation of pH and Electrical Conductivity of Assosa Agricultural Research Center Sites Soil
Authors: Cherie Dessie Almaw
Published: June 2022

Soil pH has high impact on soil biogeochemical processes in the natural environment. Soil pH is thus referred to as the "master soil variable" because it influences a plethora of soil biological, chemical, and physical properties as well as processes that affect plant growth and biomass yield. Having the correct pH is crucial for the healthy plant growth as it will affect the amount of nutrient available to plants. This study was carried out to determine the soil pH and electrical conductivity value in acidic soil and their correlation. The soil samples were collected at two research sites at depth of 0 - 20cm. The study showed that electrical conductivity parameter had significant negative correlation to soil pH with R2 = 0.8183.
Long COVID-19 Neurological and Psychological Claims: Assessment Guidelines
Authors: Hirsch Joseph , Mandel Steven , Kertay Les , Talmage James B. , Vanickachorn Greg , Hegmann Kurt , Underhill James , Meyers John , Brigham Christopher R.
Published: June 2022

Post–severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) (coronavirus disease 2019 [COVID-19]) conditions are referred to by a wide range of names, including long COVID, post-acute COVID-19, long-term effects of COVID, post-acute COVID syndrome, chronic COVID, long-haul COVID, late sequelae, and others, as well as the research term, post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC). Symptoms may include difficulty thinking or concentrating, fatigue, depression, anxiety, and other complaints. The results of studies are clouded by self-reports, lack of objective cognitive data, misattribution, and ill-defined psychological issues. Prospective cohort studies with objective assessment are needed to clarify the impact of COVID-19. While we do not dismiss the presence of long COVID or chronic COVID-19 symptoms lasting beyond a typically expected viral respiratory-transmitted syndrome, neither do we uncritically accept such a syndrome in all those who were diagnosed as having COVID-19, especially in those whose initial presentation was asymptomatic or mild. Evaluators must be astute and perform unbiased, thorough assessments and focus on objective findings while carefully assessing the potential for confounding or alternate conditions.
Adaptive controller design for fixed‐time bipartite consensus of multi‐agent systems with disturbances
Authors: Li Baoxing , Han Tao , Xiao Bo , Zhan Xi‐Sheng , Yan Huaicheng
Published: June 2022

This article aims to solve the bipartite consensus problem in fixed time for multi‐agent systems (MASs) with disturbances, in which an adaptive controller is designed. Algebraic graph theory, Lyapunov stability and fixed‐time theory are used to prove the fixed‐time bipartite consensus. In order to reduce control cost, an adaptive control protocol is further designed and discussed. Finally, the feasibility of the developed control methods are verified by numerical simulations.
High‐Precision 3D Printing of High‐Strength Polymer‐Derived Ceramics: Impact of Precursor's Molecular Structure
Authors: Chen Hui , Chen Xuelong , Lim Jacob Song-Kiat , Lu Yong , Hu Jingdan , Liang Yen-Nan , Hu Xiao “Matthew”
Published: June 2022

Additive manufacturing (3D printing) offers new opportunities to create complex structures for many applications. The development of suitable precursors for high‐resolution 3D printing of ceramics is increasingly essential to meet evolving material requirements. Herein, a new hybrid preceramic formulation based on thiol‐ene click chemistry for precision printing of polymer‐derived ceramic has been developed to enable the fabrication of complex 3D objects using high‐resolution projection microstereolithography (PμSL). Two low‐odor thiol compounds with either three (trithiol) or four thiols (tetrathiol) moieties have been examined, to investigate the influence of thiol structure on the mechanical properties of converted ceramics. Pyrolysis of the printed green bodies leads to the formation of silicon oxycarbide (SiOC) with high fidelity after polymer‐to‐ceramic transformation. The SiOC printed specimen converted from the tetrathiol formulation (4T) demonstrates excellent mechanical strength surpassing that of the trithiol‐based formulation (3T) and previously reported SiOC preceramic polymers. The ceramic honeycomb fabricated using the tetrathiol compound shows remarkable improvement in compressive strength, which is two times higher than that of the trithiol‐derived ceramic. This work proposes a simple and effective way to formulate 3D printable preceramic polymers through molecular design. The achieved 3D printed SiOC can fulfill the requirement for high‐strength ceramic materials with complex shapes.
Microwave Absorption Performance of Core–Shell rGO/Ni0.5Co0.5Fe2O4@PEDOT Composite: An Effective Approach to Reduce Electromagnetic Wave Pollution
Authors: Kumari Suman , Dalal Jasvir , Kumar Anand , Ohlan Anil
Published: June 2022

In recent years, the modern technologies working with electromagnetic waves are growing rapidly. Along with this side, malfunctioning in electronic devices and harmful effects of electromagnetic waves on living bodies are observed. Thus, to reduce the electromagnetic radiations pollution and interference problems, electromagnetic wave absorber materials are intensely in demand. Herein, with the aim, the core–shell designed rGO/NiCoFe2O4@PEDOT composites are synthesized through in situ oxidative polymerization method. The structural, morphological, and thermal properties of the composites are studied. The TEM and SEM results confirm the polymerization of PEDOT over the surface of rGO/NiCoFe2O4, i.e., the genesis of core–shell structure formation. The absorption of electromagnetic waves is investigated in the Ku‐frequency band. The maximum microwave absorption and total shielding effectiveness of rGO/NiCoFe2O4@PEDOT composite are estimated as 34.74 dB and 38.79, respectively, with broad absorption bandwidth. The surpassing absorption performance is gained by its characteristic properties such as improved impedance matching, synergic effects of dielectric and magnetic loss, and attenuated behavior exhibited by the material. A comprehensive discussion on the absorption mechanism is presented in this article. The enhanced shielding results of rGO/NiCoFe2O4@PEDOT composite reveal that the material can be used to design lightweight microwave absorbers.
A Programmable Electrochemical Y‐Shaped DNA Scaffold Sensor for the Single‐Step Detection of Antibodies and Proteins in Untreated Biological Fluids
Authors: Idili Andrea , Bonini Andrea , Parolo Claudio , Alvarez‐Diduk Ruslán , Di Francesco Fabio , Merkoçi Arben
Published: June 2022

Proteins and antibodies are key biomarkers for diagnosing and monitoring specific medical conditions. Currently, gold standard techniques used for their quantification require laborious multi‐step procedures, involving high costs and slow response times. It is possible to overcome these limitations by exploiting the chemistry and programmability of DNA to design a reagentless electrochemical sensing platform. Specifically, three DNA single strands are engineered that can self‐assemble into a Y‐shaped DNA nanostructure that resembles one of the IgGs. In order to convert this DNA nanostructure into a responsive DNA‐scaffold bioreceptor, it is modified including two recognition elements, two redox tag molecules, and a thiol group. In the absence of the target, the scaffold receptor can efficiently collide with the electrode surface and generate a strong electrochemical signal. The presence of the target induces its bivalent binding, which produces steric hindrance interactions that limit the receptor's collisional activity. In its bound state, the redox tags can therefore approach the surface at a slower rate, leading to a signal decrease that is quantitatively related to the target concentration. The Y‐shape DNA scaffold sensor can detect nanomolar concentrations of antibodies and proteins in <15 min with a single‐step procedure directly in untreated biological fluids.
Dimensional‐Transformation of Ternary‐Alloy through the Manipulation of Reduction Kinetics
Authors: Mahmood Azhar , He Dequan , Zhao Bolin , Talib Shamraiz Hussain , Cheong Weng‐Chon , Nan Zi‐Ang , He Ying , Han Dongxue , Wang Xun , Niu Li
Published: June 2022

Although significant progress is achieved for the synthesis of noble metal‐based nanocrystals (NCs), the construction of nanostructures with switchable dimensionality is not reported yet. Herein, a facile and general approach for the synthesis of multimetallic (PtCuPb and PtAgPb) NCs with dimensional‐switching properties by manipulating the reduction rate involved in the growth of 2D nanosheets (2D‐NS) and 1D nanowires (1D‐NW) is presented. At a slow reduction rate, PtCuPb and PtAgPb NCs grow to form 2D‐NS, in contrast, at a fast reduction rate, dimensionality alteration occurs to form 1D‐NW. This 2D‐NS to 1D‐NW transition generates compressive surface strain in PtCuPb‐NW with unique intermetallic core, active surface composition and exposes facet to boost oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). In PtCuPb‐NW, compressive strain shifting the d‐band electronic structure of platinum and weakening chemisorption of oxygenated species are shown. In detail, PtCuPb‐NW/C exhibits superior specific and mass activities (4.91 mA cm−2 and 2.65 A mgPt−1) for ORR that are ≈19 and ≈15 times higher than the commercial Pt/C. The observations made and chemical principles unveiled in this effort indicate that a general approach exists for dimensional‐switching and show a new class of Pt‐based electrocatalysts with enhanced performance for fuel cells.
Multicomponent Molecular Assembly of Fluorescent Organic Semiconductors Beyond Three Compounds
Authors: Zhao Panpan , Zhang Lulu , Meng Zhengong , Lei Yilong
Published: June 2022

In contrast to unary assemblies comprising π‐conjugated organic species, elaborate modulation of dimensions, polymorphisms, and compositions of multicomponent assembled architectures with two or more constituent materials has not yet been systematically studied. Herein, a combinatorial library of organic microcrystals made of four components via a solution‐phase assembly route is reported. With the involvement of growth kinetics, four organic species with slight structural modifications can assemble into five unary assemblies, which may endow binary combinations with highly and partially structural miscibility. Consequently, a variety of binary alloyed assemblies and microscale heterostructures with tailorable dimensions, polymorphisms, and emission colors are realized by rational compositional and growth control. The effects of structural relations of binary combinations on their miscibility are systematically uncovered, that gives rise to these intricate microscale architectures as well as diverse energy transfer (ET) efficiencies. Highly efficient ET process in binary alloyed assemblies can be beneficial to steady‐state photoluminescence anisotropy amplification. Benefiting from the information of binary combinations, white‐light‐emitting ternary microsheets can be modulated in a predictable manner. The present work uncovers the rational control of multicomponent microcrystals, which further stretches the boundaries of molecular self‐assembly and may be used to achieve integrated optoelectronic properties, such as multicolor lasers and p–n junctions.
Fabrication and Functionality Integration Technologies for Small‐Scale Soft Robots
Authors: Zhang Shuo , Ke Xingxing , Jiang Qin , Chai Zhiping , Wu Zhigang , Ding Han
Published: June 2022

Small‐scale soft robots are attracting increasing interest for visible and potential applications owing to their safety and tolerance resulting from their intrinsic soft bodies or compliant structures. However, it is not sufficient that the soft bodies merely provide support or system protection. More importantly, to meet the increasing demands of controllable operation and real‐time feedback in unstructured/complicated scenarios, these robots are required to perform simplex and multimodal functionalities for sensing, communicating, and interacting with external environments during large or dynamic deformation with the risk of mismatch or delamination. Challenges are encountered during fabrication and integration, including the selection and fabrication of composite/materials and structures, integration of active/passive functional modules with robust interfaces, particularly with highly deformable soft/stretchable bodies. Here, methods and strategies of fabricating structural soft bodies and integrating them with functional modules for developing small‐scale soft robots are investigated. Utilizing templating, 3D printing, transfer printing, and swelling, small‐scale soft robots can be endowed with several perceptual capabilities corresponding to diverse stimulus, such as light, heat, magnetism, and force. The integration of sensing and functionalities effectively enhances the agility, adaptability, and universality of soft robots when applied in various fields, including smart manufacturing, medical surgery, biomimetics, and other interdisciplinary sciences.
An Encapsulation‐Based Sodium Storage via Zn‐Single‐Atom Implanted Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Li Xin , Ye Weibin , Xu Pan , Huang Haihong , Fan Jingmin , Yuan Ruming , Zheng Ming‐Sen , Wang Ming‐Sheng , Dong Quanfeng
Published: June 2022

The properties of high theoretical capacity, low cost, and large potential of metallic sodium (Na) has strongly promoted the development of rechargeable sodium‐based batteries. However, the issues of infinite volume variation, unstable solid electrolyte interphase (SEI), and dendritic sodium causes a rapid decline in performance and notorious safety hazards. Herein, a highly reversible encapsulation‐based sodium storage by designing a functional hollow carbon nanotube with Zn single atom sites embedded in the carbon shell (ZnSA‐HCNT) is achieved. The appropriate tube space can encapsulate bulk sodium inside; the inner enriched ZnSA sites provide abundant sodiophilic sites, which can evidently reduce the nucleation barrier of Na deposition. Moreover, the carbon shell derived from ZIF‐8 provides geometric constraints and excellent ion/electron transport channels for the rapid transfer of Na+ due to its pore‐rich shell, which can be revealed by in situ transmission electron microscopy (TEM). As expected, Na@ZnSA‐HCNT anodes present steady long‐term performance in symmetrical battery (>900 h at 10 mA cm−2). Moreover, superior electrochemical performance of Na@ZnSA‐HCNT||PB full cells can be delivered. This work develops a new strategy based on carbon nanotube encapsulation of metallic sodium, which improves the safety and cycling performance of sodium metal anode.
Bioinspired Stretchable Transducer for Wearable Continuous Monitoring of Respiratory Patterns in Humans and Animals
Authors: Cotur Yasin , Olenik Selin , Asfour Tarek , Bruyns‐Haylett Michael , Kasimatis Michael , Tanriverdi Ugur , Gonzalez‐Macia Laura , Lee Hong Seok , Kozlov Andrei S. , Güder Firat
Published: June 2022

A bio‐inspired continuous wearable respiration sensor modeled after the lateral line system of fish is reported which is used for detecting mechanical disturbances in the water. Despite the clinical importance of monitoring respiratory activity in humans and animals, continuous measurements of breathing patterns and rates are rarely performed in or outside of clinics. This is largely because conventional sensors are too inconvenient or expensive for wearable sensing for most individuals and animals. The bio‐inspired air‐silicone composite transducer (ASiT) is placed on the chest and measures respiratory activity by continuously measuring the force applied to an air channel embedded inside a silicone‐based elastomeric material. The force applied on the surface of the transducer during breathing changes the air pressure inside the channel, which is measured using a commercial pressure sensor and mixed‐signal wireless electronics. The transducer produced in this work are extensively characterized and tested with humans, dogs, and laboratory rats. The bio‐inspired ASiT may enable the early detection of a range of disorders that result in altered patterns of respiration. The technology reported can also be combined with artificial intelligence and cloud computing to algorithmically detect illness in humans and animals remotely, reducing unnecessary visits to clinics.
Light‐Based Printing of Leachable Salt Molds for Facile Shaping of Complex Structures
Authors: Kleger Nicole , Fehlmann Simona , Lee Seunghun S. , Dénéréaz Cyril , Cihova Martina , Paunović Nevena , Bao Yinyin , Leroux Jean‐Christophe , Ferguson Stephen J. , Masania Kunal , Studart André R.
Published: June 2022

3D printing is a powerful manufacturing technology for shaping materials into complex structures. While the palette of printable materials continues to expand, the rheological and chemical requisites for printing are not always easy to fulfill. Here, a universal manufacturing platform is reported for shaping materials into intricate geometries without the need for their printability, but instead using light‐based printed salt structures as leachable molds. The salt structures are printed using photocurable resins loaded with NaCl particles. The printing, debinding, and sintering steps involved in the process are systematically investigated to identify ink formulations enabling the preparation of crack‐free salt templates. The experiments reveal that the formation of a load‐bearing network of salt particles is essential to prevent cracking of the mold during the process. By infiltrating the sintered salt molds and leaching the template in water, complex‐shaped architectures are created from diverse compositions such as biomedical silicone, chocolate, light metals, degradable elastomers, and fiber composites, thus demonstrating the universal, cost‐effective, and sustainable nature of this new manufacturing platform.
Tracking Exciton Diffusion and Exciton Annihilation in Single Nanoparticles of Conjugated Polymers by Photon Correlation Spectroscopy
Authors: Schedlbauer Jakob , Streicher Sabrina , Forster Michael , Scherf Ullrich , Vogelsang Jan , Lupton John M.
Published: June 2022

A fundamental question relating to the nature of light emission and absorption in organic semiconductors is the dimension of the domain within a bulk material responsible for the interaction of light and matter. How large can a nanoparticle become to retain the quantized nature of light emission? Excitons are only a few nanometers in size, but because they diffuse in space, they probe a much larger volume than the single molecule. When excitons meet, they may decay non‐radiatively by singlet–singlet or singlet–triplet annihilation (SSA or STA). Fluorescence photon statistics reveal whether single photons are emitted (photon antibunching) or arrive in randomly spaced packets (photon bunching), offering direct insight into excitonic mobility. Single multichain nanoparticles of ladder‐type poly(para‐phenylene) (LPPP) are examined. The effect of SSA and STA is seen in the photon antibunching and bunching, respectively, which both decrease in fidelity as the size of the nanoparticle increases. Time resolving the photon correlation measurement yields microscopic annihilation rates for SSA and STA in agreement with values obtained from bulk LPPP films. Even though triplets in LPPP are known to be highly mobile, the results show that, on the timescale of the singlet exciton lifetime, triplet diffusion is not of significance in the STA process.