bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantum‐Confined Dodecahedron CsPbBr3 Quantum Dots by A Sequential Post‐Treatment Strategy for Efficient Blue PeLEDs
Authors: Yuan Longfei , Li Dewang , Liu Hongli , Zhang Fei , Wang Shirong
Published: October 2022

CsPbBr3 quantum dots (QDs) prepared through traditional hot‐injection and room temperature reprecipitation methods are usually hexahedral (nanoplate/cube) and green‐emitting. These methods severely obstruct the development of blue perovskite‐based light‐emitting diodes (PeLEDs) because the resultant QDs always suffer unachievable morphology regulation. Here, highly efficient blue‐emitting rhombic dodecahedron CsPbBr3 QDs (CsPbBr3 <12> QDs) are obtained by regulating morphological transformation for the first time through a novel and facile sequential post‐treatment strategy. Hydrobromide (‐NH3+) with stronger adsorption energy promotes the morphology transform of QDs from nanoplate to cube by substituting oleylamine in the first step. Then, polar solvent vapor eliminates PbX64− and led to the (112) crystal plane of the cube QDs being exposed, which is effectively stabilized by ‐NH3+ to realize morphology transition from cube to the dodecahedron. Highly efficient 12‐faceted dodecahedrons are endowed with significantly enhanced photoluminescence quantum yield of 89.8% at 476 nm as well as uniform size distribution and mono‐dispersity. The target blue PeLEDs achieve the maximum external quantum efficiency of 6.6% (480 nm) and excellent spectrum stability. This study provides a new strategy to prepare blue‐emitting CsPbBr3 <12> QDs by delicate control toward the growth and polyhedron process of crystal.
Confined Assembly Organic ITIC One‐Dimensional (1D) Arrays Toward Multispectral Functional Optoelectronics
Authors: Geng Yue , Zhao Yingjie , Zhao Yuyan , Ma Jianpeng , Wei Xiao , Cao Shiqi , Zhang Zhen , Gao Hanfei , Jiang Lei , Wu Yuchen
Published: October 2022

Multispectral photodetectors are promising devices capable of detecting photons in a broad range of multiple wavelengths, which have gained considerable potential in biomedical imaging, surveillance, and other emerging artificial intelligence applications. Different light signals acquired with these photodetectors are useful in effective object recognition and navigations due to the extraction of redundant light information. However, these capabilities are obstructed by the circuitry complexity and unwanted electrical cross‐talk arising from the combination of multiple absorbers and structures. Herein, a confined assembly method by the synergy of solvent engineering for controlling organic ITIC 1D arrays in different crystallinity is proposed. Organic array‐based photodetectors present a multispectral optoelectronic performance with the maximum responsivities of 26.0, 17.6, 174.9, and 60.0 mA W−1, corresponding to different wavelength lights. Based on the large‐area fabrication of ITIC array‐based photodetectors, multispectral image sensors with high accuracy are obtained for capturing the different light signals of capital letters “T,” “I,” “P,” and “C.” Furthermore, the integration of the devices into functional optoelectronic circuits have been demonstrated as signal intermediary for optical and electrical data disposal, which open up new opportunities for the integration of organic semiconductors toward the multispectral functional optoelectronic modules.
A novel study on the sandwich‐structure strain sensor using ethylene‐vinyl acetate‐based hot‐melt adhesive mesh web: Fabrication, properties, and modeling
Authors: Qu Muchao , Fang Jiaqiang , Mu Chenzhong , Li Yanfeng , Huang Shaojuan , Han Lei , Hiemer Stefan , Xu Wei , Qin Yijing
Published: October 2022

In this study, a flexible strain sensor consisting of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and ethylene‐vinyl acetate (EVA)‐based hot‐melt adhesive web (HAW) is proposed with the advantages of low cost and easy fabrication. Six different weight fractions of the CNTs were employed in producing the three‐layer sandwich‐structure composite membrane. The morphology and internal particle structure of the cross section of the EVA/CNTs composite membranes was studied using scanning electron microscopy. The mechanical properties as well as the mechanical–electrical behavior of the EVA/CNTs sensors were investigated, showing a gauge factor up to 477. In addition, two mathematical equations to establish the relationship between the output electrical signal and the input strain signal during the monotonic and cyclic measurements were proposed, respectively. Overall, this study provides a solvent‐free one‐step approach for the preparation of flexible strain sensors with innovative and broad application prospects, and offers some insight into the mathematical prediction of the strain sensing behavior.
Incidence, Prevalence, and Mortality of Lupus Nephritis: A Population‐Based Study Over Four Decades Using the Lupus Midwest Network
Authors: Hocaoǧlu Mehmet , Valenzuela‐Almada Maria O. , Dabit Jesse Y. , Osei‐Onomah Shirley‐Ann , Chevet Baptiste , Giblon Rachel E. , Zand Ladan , Fervenza Fernando C. , Helmick Charles G. , Crowson Cynthia S. , Duarte‐García Alí
Published: October 2022

Objective

There is a paucity of population‐based studies investigating the epidemiology of lupus nephritis (LN) in the US and long‐term secular trends of the disease and its outcomes. We aimed to examine the epidemiology of LN in a well‐defined 8‐county region in the US.

Methods

Patients with incident LN between 1976 and 2018 in Olmsted County, Minnesota (1976–2009) and an 8‐county region in southeast Minnesota (2010–2018) were identified. Age‐ and sex‐specific incidence rates and point prevalence over 4 decades, adjusted to the projected 2000 US population, were determined. Standardized mortality ratios (SMRs), survival rates, and time to end‐stage renal disease (ESRD) were estimated.

Results

There were 72 patients with incident LN between 1976 and 2018, of whom 76% were female and 69% were non‐Hispanic White. Mean ± SD age at diagnosis was 38.4 ± 16.24 years. Average annual LN incidence per 100,000 population between 1976 and 2018 was 1.0 (95% CI 0.8–1.3) and was highest in patients ages 30–39 years. Between the 1976–1989 and 2000–2018 time periods, overall incidence of LN increased from 0.7 to 1.3 per 100,000, but this was not statistically significant. Estimated LN prevalence increased from 16.8 per 100,000 in 1985 to 21.2 per 100,000 in 2015. Patients with LN had an SMR of 6.33 (95% CI 3.81–9.89), with no improvement in the mortality gap in the last 4 decades. At 10 years, survival was 70%, and 13% of LN patients had ESRD.

Conclusion

The incidence and prevalence of LN in this area increased in the last 4 decades. LN patients have poor outcomes, with high rates of ESRD and mortality rates 6 times that of the general population.
Different properties of two types of red fluorescent proteins in octocoral, Scleronephthya spp. as Akane families
Authors: Kato Yuko , Yoshida Koji , Ohba Yoshihito , Fujimoto Ikki , Imahara Yukimitsu , Nakachi Shu , Nakashima Kenichiro , Shioji Kosei , Yamaguchi Toshio
Published: October 2022

We report the different properties of two types of red fluorescent proteins (RFP), undescribed species, extracted from two octocorals, Scleronephthya sp. 1 (S. sp. 1) and S. sp, 2 (Alcyonacea, Nephtheidae). S. sp. 1, named Alc‐Orange, emits strong green emission at 492 nm and weak red emission at 590 and 630 nm when excited at 449 and 574 nm, respectively. S. sp. 2, LS‐Red, emits strong deep red at 642 nm and weak green at 480 and 510 nm when excited at 574 nm and 434 nm, respectively. LS‐Red has a very large Stokes shift of about 208 nm emitting at 642 nm when excited at 434 nm. Interestingly, LS‐Red shows some emissions at 480 (blue emission), 514 (green emission), 563 (orange emission), and 642 nm (deep red emission) continuously at pH 7.5, which means multicolored fluorescence protein by one excitation at 434 nm. In pH dependence of fluorescence of Alc‐Orange (pH 13 to 3.5), no relation between ‘green and red FPs’ was observed, whereas LS‐Red showed the interconversion between ‘green and red forms’ depending on pH (11.5 to 4.5).
Case report: Langerhans cell histiocytosis of the temporal bone in children: Challenging diagnosis of a rare disease with some pitfalls
Authors: Pähler vor der Holte Anja , Welkoborsky´ Hans‐Jürgen
Published: October 2022

A 4‐year‐old girl was admitted to hospital with disturbance of balance. After being questioned, parents remembered an otitis with effusion 3 months earlier. CT‐scans revealed destruction of both temporal bones. Initial biopsy showed granulomatous, necrotic inflammation, which led to comprehensive differential diagnoses. A second tissue sample confirmed Langerhans cell histiocytosis.
Zingerone‐encapsulated Solid Lipid Nanoparticles as Oral Drug‐delivery Systems to Potentially Target Inflammatory Diseases
Authors: Sunnap Omprakash , Subramanian Singaravadivel , Vemula Praveen Kumar , Karuppannan Sekar
Published: October 2022

Currently, various anti‐inflammatory drugs are used in intestinal bowel disease (IBD) treatment as first‐line management therapies. Although beneficial effects were observed with these drugs, unwanted exposure to healthy tissue causes side‐effects. Therefore, targeted delivery of anti‐inflammatory drugs to the inflamed tissue is still an unmet need. Herein, we have developed solid lipid nanoparticles with negative surface charge that can specifically adhere to transferrin, a protein that overexpressed at the inflamed tissue. Zingerone, a natural product based anti‐inflammatory agent, has been encapsulated into solid lipid nanoparticles (Zin‐SLNPs) and protected from the degradation by stomach and intestinal fluids. The Zin‐SLNPs consists of 250–350 nm in size, have negative surface charge (‐44.08 mV). These Zin‐SLNPs have shown appreciable cyto‐compatibility, they did not show any cytotoxicity even as high as 1000 μM concentration. Native zingerone and zingerone that released from Zin‐SLNPs show efficient anti‐inflammatory property by reducing the production of pro‐inflammatory cytokines from lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐induced RAW 264.7 macrophages, in vitro. Based on these results, in the future studies, Zin‐SLNPs could be tested for their potential therapeutic efficacy in ulcerative colitis in vivo model.
Fe3O4/g‐C3N4 Nanozyme for Production of L‐DOPA as Mimetics of Tyrosine Hydroxylase
Authors: Shang Qi , Zhang Ling , Chen Chan , Tang Weikang , Han Mengqi , Chen Qinfei , Liu Wenbin
Published: October 2022

L‐DOPA is in large demand as the mainstay of therapeutic treatment for Parkinson's disease. The development of a facile route is urgently required for production of L‐DOPA. A nanozyme was developed for biomimetic synthesis of L‐DOPA by mimicking natural tyrosine hydroxylase. Fe3O4/g‐C3N4 nanocomposite was fabricated by introducing iron oxide into g‐C3N4 nanosheets. Formation of Fe−N bonds with structure resembled the active center. The nanozyme possessed superparamagnetic characteristics and wide light response range. The nanozyme exhibited similar activity as tyrosine hydroxylase by catalyzing hydroxylation of tyrosine in the presence of visible light irradiation and hydrogen peroxide. Maximum yield and titer was obtained as 15% and 1 mM for production of L‐DOPA, respectively. The nanozyme demonstrated high stability and reusability. The nanozyme catalyzed the reaction in an analogous mechanism with FeIVO2+ as the dominant active species. It might provide a promising insight to produce L‐DOPA due to advantages of easy separation and mild conditions.
Real‐time control design and implementation of ball balancer system based on machine learning and machine vision
Authors: Elshamy Mohamed R. , Abozalam Belal , Sayed Amged , Nabil Essam
Published: October 2022

This article addresses a hybrid pseudo‐PD/machine learning controller algorithm to improve the stabilization and trajectory tracking of the ball on the plate system (BOPS). The proposed controller design depends on a machine learning algorithm that detect the angle of the servo motor required to correct the position of the ball on the plate also the parameters of the PD controller is changed online using the fuzzy logic to enhance the performance of the trajectory and point tracking of the system. This article offers three different machine learning techniques for predicting servo motor angle that obtain higher accuracies of 99.95%, 99.908%, and 99.998% for support vector regression, decision tree regression, and random forest regression, respectively. The proposed scheme has greatly improved the system's settling time and overshoot, according to simulation and practical results. The Lagrangian formulation may be used to obtain the mathematical formulation, and a practical identification experiment can be used to determine the servo motor parameter. Simulation and practical results on a BOPS dynamic model are both demonstrated to justify the validation of the proposed design scheme. The experimental practical results justify the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed controller design strategy.
Blood ritual: An indigenous approach to peacemaking among the Bimoba people of northern Ghana
Authors: Ateng Mathias Awonnatey , Nuhu Abukari , Musah Agoswin A.
Published: October 2022

This study examined blood ritual as an indigenous peacemaking strategy among the Bimoba people of northern Ghana. Descriptive qualitative research methods were used together with in‐depth face‐to‐face interviews with eight elders of the community. The audio‐recorded interviews were transcribed verbatim and thematically analyzed with NVivo 12 software. The findings reveal that the blood ritual approach is participatory, focuses on re‐establishing relationships and emanates from the culture of the Bimoba people. It also involves the use of rituals and seeks the interest of the entire Bimoba community. The study concludes that the strategy shares commonalities with several indigenous peacemaking approaches in Africa and has the potential of facilitating sustainable resolutions of communal conflicts such as the Bimoba chieftaincy conflict. However, similar to other approaches, the blood ritual does not ensure gender equality in peacebuilding as the role of women is reduced to simply being observers. A major limitation of this study is its reliance on only the perspectives of the elders of the community without recourse to the voices of people who appear before the ritual processes, to appreciate how they feel about the blood ritual with respect to their hope and expectation when they appear before the process for solace and solution. Also, the voice of young people, women and other vulnerable groups are not reflected in the blood ritual approach.
Nonlinear ion‐acoustic waves in magnetized plasmas in presence of energetic electrons and positively charged dust
Authors: Orani Mehnaz Mostafee , Akter Jhorna , Mamun A. A.
Published: October 2022

A theoretical investigation has been carried out for exploring different features of ion‐acoustic solitary and shock waves in a three‐component magnetized plasma containing a mixture of thermal and nonthermal (energetic) inertialess electrons, warm inertial ions, and positively charged stationary dust particles. The standard Korteweg‐de Vries (Burgers) equation has been derived by employing the reductive perturbation method, and its solitary (shock) wave solution has been derived and examined analytically as well as numerically. The latter exhibits characteristic properties (amplitude, width, speed, and polarity) of the ion‐acoustic solitary and shock waves. It has been shown that the ion‐acoustic solitary and shock waves are significantly modified by different plasma parameters (viz. parameter measuring the ratio of dust charge density to ion charge density, parameter measuring the fraction of energetic electrons, parameter measuring ion or electron temperature, and the external magnetic field). The present investigation may help in understanding the physics of various nonlinear phenomena formed in many space plasma systems, (viz. earth's mesosphere, solar wind, and cometary tails) and laboratory devices (laboratory experiments of Samarian et al., Phys. rev. E. 64, 056407 [2001] and of Fortov et al., New J. Physics 5, 102 [2003]).
Microarchitectures of Carbon Nanotubes for Reversible Na Plating/Stripping Toward the Development of Room‐Temperature Na–S Batteries
Authors: Soni Chhail Bihari , Arya Nitika , Sungjemmenla  , Vineeth S. K. , Balakrishnan Viswanath , Kumar Vipin
Published: October 2022

An ordered and homogeneous deposition of sodium metal is pivotal in achieving reversible and long‐term stability of the metal battery. The sodium deposition critically depends on the local interfacial properties of the anode/electrolyte interface. Due to the hostless nature of sodium metal anode, the integrity of the interface deteriorates rapidly, leading to a rise in stripping/plating overpotential or premature cell failure. Herein, well‐ordered microarchitectures of carbon nanotubes (MACNTs) as a potential host for reversible and highly stable stripping/plating of sodium metal are reported. Besides accommodating sodium metal, the MACNT host facilitates the formation of inorganic‐rich solid–electrolyte interphase over the sodium metal anode. As a result, it can achieve stripping/plating reversibility for 1200 h at a current of 1 mA cm−2. An overpotential of about 30 mV occurs for the stripping/plating process, indicating uniform and compact deposition of sodium. Moreover, when applying to a room‐temperature Na–FeS2 battery, the MACNT host achieves stable cycling for over 200 cycles at 200 mA g−1 and delivers a capacity of about 210 mA h g−1.
Distribution of postictal slowing has an additional yield to interictal epileptiform discharge in predicting surgical outcomes in temporal lobe epilepsy
Authors: Shaaban Sally , Kakisaka Yosuke , Belal Tamer , Jin Kazutaka , Osawa Shin‐ichiro , Tominaga Teiji , Elmenshawi Ibrahim , Nakasato Nobukazu
Published: October 2022

Objective

To investigate whether the slowing of bilateral postictal scalp electroencephalography (EEG) after focal impaired awareness seizures is associated with poor seizure outcomes after temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) surgery.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study was conducted in the Department of Epileptology, Tohoku University Hospital from 2010 to 2020. The study included 42 patients with TLE who underwent a detailed presurgical evaluation and sequential resective surgery for the unilateral probable epileptogenic temporal lobe with 1 year or more of follow‐up. We reviewed the interictal epileptiform distribution and those of the ictal and postictal epochs of the first focal impaired awareness seizure recorded in presurgical scalp EEG. We classified patients either with postoperative seizure‐free status (Engel I) as group A or those with seizure persistence (Engel II‐IV) as group B.

Results

Of 42 patients, 29 (69%) were classified into group A. Compared with group B, group A had a lower number of bilateral postictal polymorphic delta activity (PPDA) (10.3%: 61.5%) and bilateral interictal epileptiform discharges (IEDs) (13.8%: 69.2%) (P = 0.003, P = 0.001, respectively). A combined analysis of bilateral PPDA and IEDs per individual patient showed significantly more frequent seizure persistence after surgery (P < 0.0001) than a single analysis of bilateral IEDs or PPDA alone (P = 0.001). The regression analysis revealed that bilaterally distributed PPDA or IEDs had 13.50 or 13.72 times higher odds of persisting seizures within 1 year of surgery (95% confidence interval: 1.90–95.88; 2.12–88.87, respectively) (P = 0.009, 0.006).

Significance

The results of this study revealed that the bilateral distribution of PPDA was associated with poor postoperative seizure outcomes in patients with TLE, as well as bilateral IEDs. Additionally, the concomitant bilateral distribution of interictal and postictal changes is a strong indicator of poor surgical outcomes.
Choosing to Die
Authors: Kaebnick Gregory E.
Published: October 2022

Two articles in the September–October 2022 issue of the Hastings Center Report discuss health‐related reasons that people might have to actively bring their lives to an end. In one, Brent Kious considers the situation of a person who, because of illness, becomes a burden on loved ones. A person in such a situation might prefer to die, and Kious argues that, while there is no obligation to hasten one's death, the choice to do so could sometimes be reasonable. In a second article, Henri Wijsbek and Thomas Nys discuss a case in the Netherlands in which a woman with severe dementia was euthanized at a point when her advance euthanasia directive did not align with what she said, when asked, about death. Wijsbek and Nys defend the authority of her advance directive against a range of objections.

In a third article, Henry Silverman and Patrick Odonkor, physicians at the University of Maryland Medical Center, where the first pig‐to‐human heart transplantation was performed in early 2022, develop recommendations for clinical trials of porcine heart transplantation. And an essay in the issue criticizes the allocation recommendations developed for Covid‐19 vaccines by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices.
A rare case of a clear cell carcinoma in a female urethral diverticulum
Authors: Gonda Masakazu , Etani Toshiki , Isogai Masahiko , Kawase Kengo , Nagai Takashi , Sugino Teruaki , Naiki Taku , Hamamoto Shuzo , Kawai Noriyasu , Yasui Takahiro
Published: October 2022

Introduction

Urethral clear cell carcinoma is rare and often arises from a urethral diverticulum and rarely from the Müllerian duct. However, an explanation for this correlation remains unknown.

Case presentation

We report the case of a 46‐year‐old woman who presented with hypermenorrhea. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a papillary tumor in a cystic lesion in the dorsal urethra. We performed a robot‐assisted radical cystourethrectomy and created an ileal conduit. Since pathological findings revealed microvascular and lymphovascular invasions around the urethra, adjuvant radiation therapy was administered. The patient showed no signs of recurrence or metastasis after treatment.

Conclusion

We report a case of clear cell carcinoma in a female urethral diverticulum originating from a Müllerian duct cyst. While postoperative radiation therapy has been shown to produce a good outcome in carcinoma cases similar to this one, we recommend that a radical cystourethrectomy be performed.
Caring for the whole person: transgender‐competent HIV pre‐exposure prophylaxis as part of integrated primary healthcare services in Vietnam
Authors: Doan Anh H. , Vu Chau M. H. , Nguyen Thu T. , Green Kimberly E. , Phan Huong T. T. , Janamnuaysook Rena , Vu Bao N. , Le Thanh M. , Do Khang Q. , Tran Tham T. , Ngo Trang M. , Basu Lopa , Tran Long K. , Humeau Zoe
Published: October 2022

Introduction

Although HIV prevalence among transgender women who have sex with men in Vietnam is high (16–18%), uptake of pre‐exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is low compared to other populations. When PrEP was initiated in 2017, gender‐affirming healthcare was largely unavailable. Lack of access to competent, stigma‐free healthcare is a well‐documented barrier to transgender women's uptake of PrEP and primary healthcare (PHC). We aimed to demonstrate the utility of a PrEP quality improvement intervention in pinpointing and addressing barriers to PrEP use among transgender women in Vietnam.

Methods

We applied a real‐world participatory continuous quality improvement (CQI) and Plan‐Do‐Study‐Act (PDSA) methodology to ascertain barriers to PrEP uptake among transgender women and determine priority actions for quality improvement. A CQI team representing transgender women leaders, key population (KP)‐clinic staff, public‐sector HIV managers and project staff applied PDSA to test solutions to identified barriers that addressed the primary quality improvement outcome of the monthly change in PrEP uptake among transgender women and secondary outcomes, including month‐3 PrEP continuation, the impact of offering PHC on PrEP uptake and unmet PrEP need. We utilized routine programmatic data and a descriptive cross‐sectional study enrolling 124 transgender women to measure these outcomes from October 2018 to September 2021.

Results

Five key barriers to PrEP uptake among transgender women were identified and corresponding solutions were put in place: (1) offering gender‐affirming care training to KP‐clinics and community‐based organizations; (2) integrating gender‐affirming services into 10 KP‐clinics; (3) offering PHC through five one‐stop shop (OSS) clinics; (4) implementing a campaign addressing concerns related to hormone use and PrEP interactions; and (5) developing national HIV and transgender healthcare guidelines. New PrEP enrolment and month‐3 PrEP continuation increased significantly among transgender women. Of 235 transgender women who initially sought healthcare other than PrEP at OSS clinics, 26.4% subsequently enrolled in PrEP. About one‐third of transgender women reported unmet PrEP need, while two‐thirds indicated an interest in long‐acting cabotegravir.

Conclusions

Offering gender‐competent, integrated PHC can increase PrEP enrolment and continuation, and can be an entry‐point for PrEP among those seeking care within PHC clinics. More work is needed to expand access to transgender women‐led and ‐competent healthcare in Vietnam.
Noninvasive shape‐fitting method quantifies cam morphology in femoroacetabular impingement syndrome: Implications for diagnosis and surgical planning
Authors: Guidetti Martina , Malloy Philip , Alter Thomas D. , Newhouse Alexander C. , Nho Shane J. , Espinoza Orías Alejandro A.
Published: October 2022

There are considerable limitations associated with the standard 2D imaging currently used for the diagnosis and surgical planning of cam‐type femoroacetabular impingement syndrome (FAIS). The aim of this study was to determine the accuracy of a new patient‐specific shape‐fitting method that quantifies cam morphology in 3D based solely on preoperative MRI imaging. Preoperative and postoperative 1.5T MRI scans were performed on n = 15 patients to generate 3D models of the proximal femur, in turn used to create the actual and the virtual cam. The actual cams were reconstructed by subtracting the postoperative from the preoperative 3D model and used as reference, while the virtual cams were generated by subtracting the preoperative 3D model from the virtual shape template produced with the shape‐fitting method based solely on preoperative MRI scans. The accuracy of the shape‐fitting method was tested on all patients by evaluating the agreement between the metrics of height, surface area, and volume that quantified virtual and actual cams. Accuracy of the shape‐fitting method was demonstrated obtaining a 97.8% average level of agreement between these metrics. In conclusion, the shape‐fitting technique is a noninvasive and patient‐specific tool for the quantification and localization of cam morphology. Future studies will include the implementation of the technique within a clinically based software for diagnosis and surgical planning for cam‐type FAIS.
Expanding the genetic spectrum for Chinese familial hypercholesterolemia population with six genetic mutations identified using a next‐generation sequencing‐based laboratory‐developed screening test
Authors: Jingxin Shan , Shitong Cheng
Published: October 2022

Background

This study was to reveal the prevalence of definite familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) in the hospital‐visiting population, determine the pathogenic mutation detection rate in clinically diagnosed definite FH patients, and expand the FH mutation spectrum in China.

Methods

Blood lipid profiles of 41,803 patients visiting the hospital were investigated and 4967 patients with clinical diagnoses of other metabolic diseases were excluded. One hundred and seventy‐three (0.41%) received a definite diagnosis of FH according to the Dutch Lipid Clinical Network Criteria‐Chinese Revised Version (DLCN‐CRV), and 18 patients subsequently agreed to undergo genetic testing. A next‐generation sequencing (NGS)‐based laboratory‐developed test covering the exonic regions of 24 lipid metabolism‐related genes was conducted alongside in silico analyses to identify possible FH mutations in 16 definite FH patients, according to the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ACMG) criteria. Sanger sequencing was used to confirm mutations, and SWISS‐MODEL was used to simulate the molecular structures of the confirmed protein‐carrying mutations.

Results

The FH prevalence was 0.41% for the 41,803 individuals (DLCN‐CRV grade >8) and 25% of definite FH patients carried six FH pathogenic mutations (≥ACMG Class 4). All genetic variants were confirmed by Sanger sequencing. Five pathogenic variants on the LDLR gene (NM_000527: c.C1783T: p.R595W, c.T493G: p.W165G, c.G1879A: p.A627T, c.G682T: p.E228X, and exon10: c.G1432A: p.G478R) and one pathogenic variant on APOB (NM_000384: c.C10579T: p.R3527W) in 25% of the identified definite FH patients. Two pathogenic mutations, c.T493G (p.W165G) and c.C1783T (p.R595W), were added to the current genetic spectrum of FH in China.

Conclusion

This study contributes to improving the current FH detection rate and genetic screening strategies; it provides new directions for treatment, management, and drug development.
Low levels of outdoor recreation alter wildlife behaviour
Authors: Sytsma Mira L. T. , Lewis Tania , Gardner Beth , Prugh Laura R.
Published: October 2022

Public interest in nature‐based recreation is growing, including visitation to protected areas. However, the level of recreation in these areas that causes detectable changes in wildlife behaviour remains unknown, and many studies that investigate wildlife responses to humans do so in high‐visitation areas.

We used camera traps to investigate the spatial and temporal responses of brown bears (Ursus arctos), black bears (Ursus americanus), moose (Alces alces) and wolves (Canis lupis) to experimentally manipulated levels of human activity in Glacier Bay National Park, Alaska during summers 2017 and 2018. Human activity was restricted at some sites and concentrated at others, and these human impact treatments were swapped mid‐season. The park has very low on‐land visitation (~40,000 on‐land tourists per year), making it a unique study system to investigate wildlife responses to low levels of human activity.

Detections did not exceed five per week for any species unless human activity was absent (zero photos of humans were taken). However, spatial and temporal patterns of wildlife activity in relation to human activity were nuanced and species specific. Moose shifted their activity patterns to better align with when people were most active. Black bears were more likely to be detected in areas of high human activity but used high‐use areas less intensely than low‐use areas. Wolves used areas of high human impact more intensely, but shifted their activity to be more strongly nocturnal.

Our results highlight the importance of considering both spatial and temporal responses of wildlife to human activity. Additionally, and arguably most importantly, we detected changes in wildlife behaviour in response to humans in a national park with relatively low tourism. Although natural processes may dominate in protected areas, our results indicate that even low levels of human activity can alter wildlife behaviour.

Synthesis and applications. We demonstrated that nearly any level of human activity in a protected area may alter wildlife behaviour. However, it is unreasonable to expect protected areas to be completely devoid of human activity. Thus, management of these areas will need to balance the desires of humans to view wildlife with the likely impacts.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Rational Design of Soft–Hard Interfaces through Bioinspired Engineering
Authors: Zhang Hui , Ma Yufei , Wang Yijie , Niu Lin , Zou Rui , Zhang Min , Liu Hao , Genin Guy M. , Li Ang , Xu Feng
Published: October 2022

Soft–hard tissue interfaces in nature present a diversity of hierarchical transitions in composition and structure to address the challenge of stress concentrations that would otherwise arise at their interface. The translation of these into engineered materials holds promise for improved function of biomedical interfaces. Here, soft–hard tissue interfaces found in the body in health and disease, and the application of the diverse, functionally graded, and hierarchical structures that they present to bioinspired engineering materials are reviewed. A range of such bioinspired engineering materials and associated manufacturing technologies that are on the horizon in interfacial tissue engineering, hydrogel bioadhesion at the interfaces, and healthcare and medical devices are described.
Gel Polymer Electrolytes Design for Na‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Pan Jun , Wang Nana , Fan Hong Jin
Published: October 2022

Na‐ion battery has the potential to be one of the best types of next‐generation energy storage devices by virtue of their cost and sustainability advantages. With the demand for high safety, the replacement of traditional organic electrolytes with polymer electrolytes can avoid electrolyte leakage and thermal instability. Polymer electrolytes, however, suffer from low ionic conductivity and large interfacial impedance. Gel polymer electrolytes (GPEs) represent an excellent balance that combines the advantages of high ionic conductivity, low interfacial impedance, high thermal stability, and flexibility. This short review summarizes the recent progress on gel polymer Na‐ion batteries, focusing on different preparation approaches and the resultant physical and electrochemical properties. Reasons for the differences in ionic conductivity, mechanical properties, interfacial properties, and thermal stability are discussed at the molecular level. This Review may offer a deep understanding of sodium‐ion GPEs and may guide the design of intermolecular interactions for high‐performance gel polymer Na‐ion batteries.
Halogen–Hydrogen Bonding for the Synthesis of Efficient Polymeric Carbon‐Nitride Photocatalysts
Authors: Mark Gabriel , Mondal Sanjit , Volokh Michael , Xia Jiawei , Shalom Menny
Published: October 2022

Carbon nitride (CN) materials demonstrate great promise as photocatalysts for various reactions. However, synthesizing a CN with high dispersibility in water, large specific surface area, ordered morphology, and high catalytic activity remains a challenge. Melem (2,5,8‐triamino‐tri‐s‐triazine) has emerged as a monomer for the synthesis of CN materials owing to its high thermal stability, which favors controlled condensation over sublimation and decomposition at high temperatures. Herein, the synthesis of porous CN materials is shown with high dispersibility in water and excellent photocatalytic activity for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). To this end, various supramolecular assemblies are designed which are composed of melem combined with different hydrohalogenic acids as precursors of CNs. The results show that the HX (HX (aq), where X = Cl, Br, I) type directs the morphology, optical, and electronic properties of the resulting CN materials, particularly their surface area and photophysical properties. Moreover, the presence of HX results in a CN with a larger amount of free NH2 groups, which allow good dispersibility in water and act as linking groups to a photodeposited Pt cocatalyst. The elucidation of the optimum acid concentration and type leads to the synthesis of a CN with high and stable photocatalytic HER activity.
Nanozyme Based on Porphyrinic Metal–Organic Framework for Electrocatalytic CO2 Reduction
Authors: Lee Junghye , Choi Hansaem , Mun Jinhong , Jin Eunji , Lee Soochan , Nam Joohan , Umer Muhammad , Cho Jaeheung , Lee Geunsik , Kwon Youngkook , Choe Wonyoung
Published: October 2022

Mimicry of natural enzyme systems is an important approach for catalyst design. To create an enzyme‐inspired catalyst, it is essential to mimic both the active center and the second coordination sphere. Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs), an emerging class of porous materials, are ideal candidates for heterogeneous catalysts because their versatile building blocks confer a high level of structural tunability, and the chemical environment surrounding the active center can be controlled at the molecular level. Herein, a new 2D porphyrinic MOF, PPF‐100, constructed from a nonplanar saddle‐distorted porphyrin linker and a Cu paddle‐wheel metal node is reported. The strategic introduction of ethyl substituents allows not only to mimic the active center and second coordination sphere but also to increase the catalytic selectivity while completely inhibiting H2 generation in the CO2 reduction reaction.
New endoscopic tools in inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Nardone Olga Maria , Cannatelli Rosanna , Ghosh Subrata , Iacucci Marietta
Published: October 2022

Endoscopic remission is now considered the ultimate long‐term goal for treating inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Recent advances in endoscopic techniques have progressively added new tools to the armamentarium of endoscopists for a deeper assessment and characterisation of the intestinal mucosa. Virtual Electronic chromoendoscopy is widely available in the endoscopic units, leading to a more accurate evaluation of the vascular and mucosal architecture of the colon, reducing the gap with histology, which is considered a favourable long‐term measure. In addition, advanced, sophisticated techniques such as endocytoscope and confocal laser endomicroscopy provide insights into individualised and personalised IBD therapy. Finally, high expectations are placed on the advent of Artificial Intelligence (AI) with promising applications that have the potential to revolutionise IBD diagnosis and management. Here, we discuss state‐of‐the‐art of endoscopic techniques and their applicability to accurate assess endoscopic and histological remission, predict response to therapy and detect, characterise and guide treatment of colonic dysplastic lesions. We are seeing the dawn of a new era wherein the applications of these new endoscopic tools, hand in hand with AI, offer the most incredible opportunity to deliver precision medicine to patients with IBD.
Intersektionalität in der Teilhabeforschung
Authors: Dederich Markus
Published: October 2022

In diesem Beitrag werden zunächst Kerngedanken der Intersektionalitätsforschung zusammenfassend dargestellt und bisher nicht hinreichend geklärte Fragen benannt. In weiteren Schritten wird das Potenzial der Intersektionalitätsforschung als machtkritisches Instrument der Analyse von sozialen Ungleichheitslagen für den Kontext Behinderung sowie die Inklusions- und Teilhabeforschung skizziert und eine Reihe noch ungelöster Probleme herausgestellt.
First extraction of inclusive Vcb from q2 moments
Authors: Bernlochner Florian , Fael Matteo , Olschewsky Kevin , Persson Eric , van Tonder Raynette , Vos K. Keri , Welsch Maximilian
Published: October 2022

Abstract

We present the first determination of Vcb from inclusive $$ B\to {X}_c \ell {\overline{v}}_{\ell} $$
B
→

X
c

ℓ

v
¯

ℓ

using moments of the dilepton invariant mass, q2. These moments are reparametrization invariant quantities and depend on a reduced set of non-perturbative parameters. This reduced set of parameters opens a new path to extract these parameters up to $$ 1/{m}_b^4 $$
1
/

m
b
4

purely from data and can potentially reduce the uncertainty on Vcb. In this paper, we present our first determination of Vcb using this method. Combining the recent measurements of q2 moments by Belle and Belle II, our default fit gives |Vcb| = (41.69±0.63)·10−3. This result presents an important independent cross check of, and is consistent with, the previous state-of-the-art inclusive determinations using lepton energy and hadronic invariant mass moments.
Worldsheet dual of free $$ \mathcal{N} $$ = 2 quiver gauge theories
Authors: Gaberdiel Matthias R. , Galvagno Francesco
Published: October 2022

Abstract

For a special family of 4d $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 2 superconformal quiver theories, the worldsheet dual corresponding to the free theory is identified. This result is obtained from the recently proposed worldsheet dual of free $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 4 SYM by applying a ℤk orbifold. In support of our proposal we show that the spectrum of both the untwisted as well as the twisted sectors coincides between the two descriptions.
Absolute neutrino mass scale and dark matter stability from flavour symmetry
Authors: Chuliá Salvador Centelles , Cepedello Ricardo , Medina Omar
Published: October 2022

Abstract

We explore a simple but extremely predictive extension of the scotogenic model. We promote the scotogenic symmetry ℤ2 to the flavour non-Abelian symmetry Σ(81), which can also automatically protect dark matter stability. In addition, Σ(81) leads to striking predictions in the lepton sector: only Inverted Ordering is realised, the absolute neutrino mass scale is predicted to be mlightest≈ 7.5×10−4 eV and the Majorana phases are correlated in such a way that |mee| ≈ 0.018 eV. The model also leads to a strong correlation between the solar mixing angle θ12 and δCP, which may be falsified by the next generation of neutrino oscillation experiments. The setup is minimal in the sense that no additional symmetries or flavons are required.
The relevance of wall roughness modeling for simulation of powder flows in laser metal deposition nozzles
Authors: Haghshenas Armin , Bohlen Annika , Tyralla Dieter , Groll Rodion
Published: October 2022

Point-particle large-eddy simulations and high-speed imaging are used to investigate effects of wall roughness and particle size on characteristics of a powder flow issuing from a vertical, round nozzle. Wall roughness effects on dynamics of particles can be characterized by the standard deviation of the roughness angle distribution $$\Delta \gamma$$

Δ
γ

, which is a hybrid roughness parameter that represents a combination of amplitude and spacing roughness parameters. We optically scan the inner nozzle surface to obtain the two-dimensional roughness profiles, using which $$\Delta \gamma$$

Δ
γ

is estimated. We adopt a stochastic approach in the numerical simulations to model the wall roughness. We find that this modeling is essential to obtain a good agreement between simulation and experimental results. The wall roughness is found to enhance the transverse dispersion of particles and to eliminate the preferential accumulation of particles in the near-wall region, giving rise to reduction of the mean particle velocity within the nozzle and to clustering of the particles in the nozzle core. Results also reveal that an increase in the particle size (characterized by Stokes number) and in the wall roughness leads to a reduction of the particle velocity and to an enhancement of the particle-stream divergence throughout the jet region. However, a saturation behaviour is observed in the particle-stream divergence with the Stokes number. All this dependence is rationalized by the fact that the Stokes number characterizes the particle response to the gas flow and the wall roughness determines the inelastic particle-wall collision frequency.
ERAS guidelines-driven upper gastrointestinal contrast study after esophagectomy can detect delayed gastric conduit emptying and improve outcomes
Authors: Klevebro F. , Konradsson M. , Han S. , Luttikhold J. , Nilsson M. , Lindblad M. , Andersson M. , Low D. E.
Published: October 2022

Background

Delayed gastric conduit emptying can occur after esophagectomy and has been shown to be associated with increased risk for postoperative complications. Application of a standardized clinical protocol after esophagectomy including an upper gastrointestinal contrast study has the potential to improve postoperative outcomes.

Methods

Prospective cohort including all patients operated with esophagectomy at two high-volume centers for esophageal surgery. The standardized clinical protocol included an upper gastrointestinal contrast study on day 2 or 3 after surgery. All images were compiled and evaluated for the purpose of the study. Clinical data was collected in IRB approved institutional databases at the participating centers.

Results

The study included 119 patients treated with esophagectomy of whom 112 (94.1%) completed an upper gastrointestinal contrast study. The results showed that 8 (7.1%) patients had radiological delayed gastric conduit emptying defined as no emptying of contrast through the pylorus. Partial conduit emptying was seen in 34 (30.4%) patients, and 70 (62.5%) patients had complete conduit emptying. Complete or partial emptying was associated with significantly earlier nasogastric tube removal (3 vs. 6 days) and hospital discharge 8 vs. 17 days, P < 0.001). Radiological signs of delayed gastric conduit emptying were shown to be associated with increased risk of postoperative complications. There was, however, no association with severe postoperative complications according to Clavien–Dindo score, pulmonary complications, anastomotic leak or need for intensive care.

Conclusion

The results of the study demonstrate that postoperative upper gastrointestinal contrast studies can be used to assess the level of emptying of the gastric conduit after esophagectomy. Application of upper gastrointestinal contrast study in the ERAS guidelines-driven standardized clinical pathway after esophagectomy has the potential to improve postoperative outcomes.
Acute kidney injury and diabetic kidney disease in children with acute complications of diabetes
Authors: Soltysiak Jolanta , Krzysko-Pieczka Izabela , Gertig-Kolasa Anna , Mularz Ewa , Skowrońska Bogda , Ostalska-Nowicka Danuta , Zachwieja Jacek
Published: October 2022

Background

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) and hyperglycaemia without ketoacidosis are common acute complications of diabetes. Their association with acute kidney injury (AKI) and diabetic kidney disease (DKD) was studied.

Methods

The study group consisted of 197 children with type 1 diabetes with average diabetes duration of 8.08 ± 2.32 years. The medical history of the patients was retrospectively reviewed. The number of children with severe hyperglycaemia, DKA and AKI was assessed. The association with the risk of chronic kidney disease (CKD) was analysed.

Results

AKI was found in 14% of cases hospitalised for DKA and 8% of cases hospitalised for hyperglycaemia. Patients with AKI showed a significantly increased corrected sodium (141.23 ± 5.09 mmol/L, p = 0.035). Patients with AKI in DKA showed a significant increase in WBC (20.73 ± 8.71 × 103/µL, p = 0.0009). Follow-up analysis after a minimum of 5 years of diabetes revealed that a single episode of DKA was found in 63 patients and a single episode of AKI in 18 patients. Two or more episodes of DKA were found in 18 patients, and nine cases were complicated by AKI. These patients showed a significant increase in urinary albumin excretion (44.20 ± 64.21 mg/24 h), the highest values of eGFR and the worst glycaemic control.

Conclusions

Diabetic children can develop AKI in the course of DKA and hyperglycaemia without ketoacidosis, which is associated with volume depletion and reflected by corrected sodium concentration. AKI in DKA seems to be complicated by stress and inflammation activation. AKI and poor glycaemic control with repeated DKA episodes can magnify the risk of progression to DKD.

Graphical abstract