bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dissolution of urea phosphate: A kinetic and thermodynamic study by solution calorimetry
Authors: Long Bingwen , Yao Keke , Zhu Shijie , Li ZuHong , Li Tong , Deng Fuli , Deng Hua , Ding Yigang
Published: August 2022

A thermodynamic and kinetic study of the dissolution properties of urea phosphate (UP) in water is performed using a Calvet type microcalorimeter. Calorimetric measurements reveal the dissolution is endothermic and the heat is perfectly proportional to the amount of UP dissolved, yielding an enthalpy of (33.755 ± 0.65) kJ/mol. By combining the enthalpy data of our measurements and literature, we derive the enthalpies of urea‐phosphoric acid adduct reaction, formation of solid UP and UP dissociation. Dissolution kinetics parameters are estimated using the collected dynamic calorimetric data that are well represented with quasi‐second‐order kinetic model, giving an activation energy of (16.7 ± 2.7) kJ/mol. Thermodynamic modeling of the pH difference between UP and phosphoric acid solutions shows the degree of UP dissociation decreases from 74% to 42% when UP molality increases from 0.02 to 1 mol/kg. Furthermore, the species molality distributions in UP solutions are calculated based on mass balance and the dissociation equilibrium relations considered.
Sexual dimorphism in deciduous tooth crown size: Variability within and between groups
Authors: Lukacs John R.
Published: August 2022

Objectives

Sexual dimorphism in deciduous tooth crown size is often used to identify sex in sub‐adults from archeological sites and forensic settings. Yet sexual dimorphism in deciduous dental attributes is less well documented than in permanent teeth. This analysis was conducted to document variation in sexual dimorphism within and between a global sample of populations.

Methods

Mean deciduous tooth crown size was culled from published literature, yielding a sample of 37 groups. Mean mesiodistal (MD) and buccolingual (BL) crown dimensions are the basis for computing percent sexual dimorphism [(M/F−1) * 100]. Three analyses were conducted: (1) a statistical analysis of mean % sex dimorphism (%SD) within and between populations, (2) an evaluation of rank‐ordered %SD by tooth, and (3) an assessment of intergroup patterns in degree of sexual dimorphism. Univariate tests of significance, correlation and regression, and multivariate cluster analysis were used.

Results

Mean %SD is low overall (1.77) for 26 groups and the level of dimorphism is not significantly different for MD (1.68) and BL (1.72) dimensions. The most sexual dimorphic deciduous teeth include incisor, canine and molar tooth types, while in the permanent dentition canines are consistently most sexual dimorphic. Global variation in sexual dimorphism of deciduous tooth size is low with little inter‐ethnic variation.

Conclusions

Sexual dimorphism in crown size is lower and more variably expressed than in permanent teeth. Differences may relate to developmental, chromosomal, and hormonal factors. Degree of sexual dimorphism is not associated with ethnicity in this global sample.
Lack of bidirectional association between age‐related macular degeneration and Alzheimer's disease: A Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Jiang Li , Li Jin‐Chen , Tang Bei‐Sha , Guo Ji‐Feng , Shen Lu
Published: August 2022

Introduction

Observational studies have reported inconsistent results on the relationship between age‐related macular degeneration (AMD) and Alzheimer's disease (AD). Therefore, we aimed to determine whether there is a causal association between AMD and AD.

Methods

This two‐sample bidirectional Mendelian randomization (MR) study evaluated causal associations between advanced AMD and AD using summary data from large genome‐wide association studies.

Results

Genetic liability for advanced AMD showed no statistical causal association with AD risk (odds ratio [OR] = 0.999, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.955–1.044, P = .948). Reverse MR analysis provided little support for a causal effect of AD on advanced AMD (OR = 0.973, 95%CI: 0.938–1.008, P = .133).

Discussion

This MR study found no evidence to support a bidirectional causality between advanced AMD and AD.

Highlights

We evaluated the bidirectional causal relationship between advanced AMD and AD.

Advanced AMD showed no statistical causal association with risk of AD.

We found no evidence to support a causal effect of AD on advanced AMD risk.

The associations observed in epidemiological studies should not be considered causal.
Colorless poly(amide‐imide) copolymers for flexible display applications
Authors: Zhang Yuanhao , Zhou Yubo , Wang Zhen , Yan Jingling
Published: August 2022

Colorless polyimide (CPI) films showed great potential for flexible display applications due to their unique combination of excellent optical transparency, and outstanding thermal and mechanical properties. Herein, a series of colorless poly(amide‐imide)s were prepared via a conventional two‐step method, using 1,2,3,4‐cyclobutanetetracarboxylic dianhydride (CBDA), 4,4′‐(hexafluoroisopropylidene)diphthalic anhydride (6FDA), 2,2′‐bis(trifluoromethyl)benzidine (TFMB), and 4,4′‐diaminobenzanilide (DABA) as the monomers. The thermal, mechanical, and optical properties of these copolymers were optimized by adjusting the molar ratios of these monomers. The amide linkages significantly improved the mechanical properties and dimensional stability of the resultant CPI films due to strong hydrogen bonding interactions. In particular, CPI‐f films with monomer compositions of TFMB (50 mol%), DABA (50 mol%), 6FDA (50 mol%), and CBDA (50 mol%) exhibited tensile strength of 177 MPa, modulus of 5.5 GPa, coefficient of thermal expansion value of 18 ppm K−1, and glass transition temperature of 394°C. Furthermore, the optical properties of these copolymers were well balanced due to the adoption of CBDA, which can suppress the formation of charge transfer complexes. Specifically, these CPI films displayed transmittance at 550 nm of >88%, b* values of <5.5, haze values of <1%. The aforementioned results revealed that copolymerization is an effective strategy to achieve CPIs with excellent comprehensive properties.
Arbitrary settling time control with prescribed performance for high‐order nonlinear systems
Authors: Qi Xuelei , Ma Hongjun , Jing Yuanwei
Published: August 2022

This paper studies an arbitrary convergence time tracking controller design problem for high‐order nonlinear systems. Our aim is to enhance the existing free‐will arbitrary time control (FATC), which cannot track time‐varying reference signals. To do so, a new nonautonomous equation is firstly introduced to enable an arbitrary settling time stability for one‐order systems. Then, a prescribed performance control (PPC) technology is integrated for general high order systems. By a backstepping Lyapunov analysis with iteratively contructed nonautonomous equations, it is proved that the closed‐loop system satisfies the prescribed performance and all signals of the closed‐loop system are arbitrary settling time stable (ASTS). Compared with the existing results, the tracking control problem with arbitrary convergence time is addressed by a continuous control law, which shows a better transient performance also. Simulation results confirm the effectiveness of the proposed control method.
Sustainability and Technical Performance of An All‐Organic Aqueous Sodium‐Ion Hybrid Supercapacitor
Authors: Karlsmo Martin , Johansson Patrik
Published: August 2022

Development of all‐organic aqueous energy storage devices (ESDs) is a promising pathway towards meeting the needs of technically medium/low‐demanding electrical applications. Such ESDs should favour low cost, low environmental impact, and safety, and thereby complement more expensive, high voltage, and energy/power dense ESDs such as lithium‐ion batteries. Herein, we set out to assemble all‐organic aqueous Na‐ion hybrid supercapacitors, exclusively using commercial materials, with the aim to provide a truly sustainable and low‐cost ESD. Overall, the created ESD delivers adequate technical performance in terms of capacity retention, Coulombic efficiency, energy efficiency, and energy/power density. Finally, we apply a straight‐forward and qualitative biodegradability method to the ESD.
The burden of epilepsy and unmet need in people with focal seizures
Authors: Ioannou Persefoni , Foster Daniella L. , Sander Josemir W. , Dupont Sophie , Gil‐Nagel Antonio , Drogon O'Flaherty Ewa , Alvarez‐Baron Elena , Medjedovic Jasmina
Published: August 2022

Background

Epilepsy is one of the most common neurological conditions worldwide. As a chronic condition, epilepsy imposes a significant burden on people with epilepsy and society. We aimed to assess the burden and unmet need of individuals with epilepsy and their caregivers, focusing on focal seizures, the main type of seizure in adults and children.

Methods

A targeted evidence review of the burden of epilepsy, focusing on focal seizures, was conducted to identify articles reporting: epidemiology, mortality, morbidity, quality of life (QoL), and costs.

Results

Focal seizures affect up to ∼61% of people with epilepsy. They are associated with an increased risk of injury and premature death than the general population. People with epilepsy also have high comorbidity, particularly depression, anxiety, and cognitive impairments. Higher seizure frequency, adverse treatment events, and employment concerns reduce QoL. A reduction in caregivers' QoL is also often reported. Epilepsy requires long‐term treatment accounting for high individual costs. Hospitalizations and antiseizure medications (ASMs) are the leading cost drivers of inpatient management and indirect costs with high unemployment rates, particularly in drug‐resistant populations. Despite the advent of new treatments, a high unmet need remains unaddressed; approximately 40% of people with epilepsy are drug‐resistant, further increasing the risks associated with epilepsy.

Conclusions

Our findings highlight a substantial burden of illness and unmet needs in individuals with focal seizures, especially those with drug‐resistant epilepsy. Suboptimal treatment options negatively impact QoL and, consequently, a sizeable economic burden indicating the need for new treatments and prioritizing this condition
Mutational landscape of homologous recombination‐related genes in small‐cell lung cancer
Authors: Wu Shuo , Zhang Yao , Zhang Yan , Chen Liz‐han , Ouyang Hai‐feng , Xu Xi , Du Ying , Ti Xin‐yu
Published: August 2022

Background

Homologous recombination deficiency (HRD) is a well‐known biomarker which could predict poly‐ADP ribose polymerase 1 (PARP) inhibitor and platinum drug response. As an aggressive cancer, small‐cell lung cancer (SCLC) is sensitive to platinum drugs, but relapse occurs rapidly. Herein, we aim to illustrate the genomic alteration patterns of homologous recombination repair (HRR)‐related genes in a Chinese SCLC cohort and further analyze the relationship among HRR gene mutations and known biomarkers of immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) response, including tumor mutation burden (TMB) and programmed cell death‐ligand 1 (PD‐L1) expression.

Methods

Next‐generation sequencing (NGS)‐based target capture sequencing of 543 cancer‐related genes was performed to analyze the genomic profiles of 133 Chinese SCLC patients, and TMB was calculated. PD‐L1 expression was evaluated in 90 out of 133 patients using the SP142 PD‐L1 immunohistochemistry assay.

Results

Among the 133 patients with SCLC, 47 (35.3%) had HRR gene mutations. ATM (8.3%) was the most frequently mutated HRR gene in the cohort, followed by NBN (4.5%). Pathogenic somatic and germline mutations of HRR genes were identified in 11 (23.4%) and 4 (8.5%) patients, respectively. HRR gene mutations cooccurred with KMT2D gene mutations. There were several differences in genomic alterations between patients with HRR gene mutations (HRR‐Mut) and without HRR mutations (HRR‐WT). The results revealed that TP53 and RB1 were commonly mutated genes in both groups. Mutations in the KMT2D gene and genes in the RTK‐RAS pathway occurred more frequently in the HRR‐Mut group. Furthermore, we found that mutations in HRR genes were associated with high TMB (Wilcoxon, p = 0.048), but there was no correlation of HRR gene mutation status with PD‐L1 expression.

Conclusions

We exhaustively describe the genomic alteration profile of Chinese SCLC patients and provide further evidence that HRR gene mutations are prevalent in SCLC patients.
GC/MS Composition and Resistance Modulatory Inhibitory Activities of Three Extracts of Lemongrass: Citral Modulates the Activities of Five Antibiotics at Sub‐Inhibitory Concentrations on Methicillin‐Resistant Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Kabotso Daniel E. K. , Neglo David , Kwashie Pius , Agbo Irene A. , Abaye Daniel A.
Published: August 2022

We investigated whether three extractable fractions of lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus): aqueous and ethanol extracts and lemongrass essential oil exhibited any antimicrobial resistance modulatory effects if used in combination with selected antibiotics ampicillin, tetracycline, streptomycin, cefloxacin and amoxicillin on methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). MRSA growth inhibition (zones of inhibition) was greatest for the lemongrass oil at concentrations of 1, 2, 5, 10 and 20 % (wt/vol). The MIC for lemongrass oil was 0.5 mg/mL, while it was 4 mg/mL for both the aqueous and ethanol extracts. Evaluation of extracts for antibacterial resistance modifying activities when used in combination with either of the five antibiotics at sub‐inhibitory concentrations, showed that lemongrass oil highly potentiated the activities of three antibiotics; amoxicillin, streptomycin and tetracycline. The ethanol extract enhanced the activity of tetracycline and ampicillin, while the aqueous extract only increased the activity of tetracycline against MRSA. The activity of cefloxacin with the extracts was either indifferent. Analysis of the lemongrass oil by GC/MS showed the prominence of three compounds: the two isomers neral and geranial of citral and, the acetate geranyl acetate, which together made up 94 % of the composition. The compounds were also observed in the ethanol and water extracts but to a lesser extent when analyzed by HPLC‐UV (λ 233 nm). Our study confirms the antibacterial properties of the extracts especially, lemongrass oil. It also demonstrates that lemongrass oil potentiates the activities of three antibiotics against the biofilm‐forming MRSA. This biocidal, anti‐biofilm disruption and antibiotic potentiating abilities are mainly attributable to citral and geranyl acetate, further evidence of lemongrass oil as a very useful source of phytochemicals, especially citral for the fight against antibiotic resistance.
Sex‐Related Differences on Chemical Composition, Anatomy, Histochemistry, and Biological Activities of Juniperus rigida
Authors: Tian Peilin , Zhang Yujia , Wang Ziyi , Liu Shi , Chen Qian , Hu Huizhong , Li Dengwu
Published: August 2022

Sex‐related differences on phenolic profiles, chemical composition of essential oils, anatomy, histochemistry and biological activities (antioxidant and antibacterial activities) of Juniperus rigida needles collected from Yijun and Fugu region were first studied. In two regions, female and male had similar contents of total phenolic and total flavonoid. 10 phenolic compounds were analyzed by RP‐HPLC, amentoflavone content was significantly higher in female than male in Yijun, and chlorogenic acid content was significantly higher in female than male in Fugu. 30 compounds (over 0.5 %) were detected in the essential oils, and the total contents of female were lower than male in Yijun. This difference mainly comes from Germacrene D, which was about twice as high in male as in female. Male needles had significantly larger mechanical tissue and phloem in Yijun. Histochemical analysis indicated that the phenols were stored in epidermal cells, sponge tissue, endodermis cells, edge of resin duct, stomatal bands, and the flavonoids were stored in epidermal cells, endodermis cells, edge of resin duct, stomatal bands. No sex‐related differences were found in histochemical analysis, antioxidant activities (ABTS, FRAP) and antibacterial activities (9 strains). This preliminary study provided a reference for production practice and theoretical research of J. rigida.
Stereoselective Semi‐Hydrogenations of Alkynes by First‐Row (3d) Transition Metal Catalysts
Authors: Gregori Bernhard J. , Schmotz Mattis‐Ole W. S. , Jacobi von Wangelin Axel
Published: August 2022

The chemo‐ and stereoselective semi‐hydrogenation of alkynes to alkenes is a fundamental transformation in synthetic chemistry, for which the use of precious 4d or 5d metal catalysts is well‐established. In mankind‘s unwavering quest for sustainability, research focus has considerably veered towards the 3d metals. Given their high abundancy and availability as well as lower toxicity and noxiousness, they are undoubtedly attractive from both an economic and an environmental perspective. Herein, we wish to present noteworthy and groundbreaking examples for the use of 3d metal catalysts for diastereoselective alkyne semi‐hydrogenation as we embark on a journey through the first‐row transition metals.
On trajectory and velocity measurements in fluidized beds using positron emission particle tracking (PEPT)
Authors: Leadbeater Thomas W. , Seville Jonathan P. K. , Parker David J.
Published: August 2022

Positron emission particle tracking (PEPT) is a non‐invasive technique that can be used for following the trajectories of particles in fluidized beds, so increasing understanding of solids motion in fluidized bed processes. We describe how PEPT is applied, how its performance is optimized, and how trajectory information can be built up into instantaneous and time‐averaged measures of particle movement. Choices and pitfalls in data processing are explained and illustrated by reference to the travelling fluidized bed (TFB) collaboration initiated by Professor John Grace.
Metal‐Free Arylsulfonyl Radical Triggered Cascade Cyclization of Phenyl‐Linked 1,6‐Enynes: Synthesis of 2,3‐Dihydro‐1H‐indenes and 10a,11‐Dihydro‐10H‐benzo[b]fluorines
Authors: Hu Lin‐Ping , Zhang De‐Run , Huang Xiao‐Hong , Liu Feng‐Lin , Li Xia , Teng Ming‐Yu , Huang Guo‐Li
Published: August 2022

Comprehensive Summary

Aryl sulfonyl radical triggered cascade cyclization of phenyl‐linked 1,6‐enynes for the synthesis of biologically important indenes containing alkenyl C—X bonds and 10a,11‐dihydro‐10H‐benzo[b]fluorines is presented. In these radical cascade processes, three new chemical bonds, including C—S, C—C, and C—X bonds, and three C—C bonds are formed in one step. The method is attractive and valuable due to its metal‐free, mild reaction conditions, broad substrate scope and good functional group tolerance.
Supramolecular Self‐Assembled Structure of Symmetrical Dicyclopentyl Substituted Cucurbit[6]uril with Calcium and Erbium Ions
Authors: Lu Yanli , Ma Yue , Zheng Jun , Zhang Lin , Yang Xinan , Ma Peihua
Published: August 2022

Dicyclopentyl substituted cucurbit[6]uril (CyP2Q[6]) is used to construct supramolecular self‐assembly with Ca and Er ions, respectively, and the obtained crystals are characterized by the X‐ray single crystal diffraction technique, with results showing that two Ca2+ form coordination bonds with two CyP2Q[6] carbonyl oxygen atoms and ten water molecules, respectively, while Er3+ first coordinates with eight water molecules and then forms hydrogen bonds through the coordinated water with the portal carbonyl oxygen on the CyP2Q[6], thus forming a 1D supramolecular chain, and a honeycomb‐like framework between two adjacent CyP2Q[6] through [ZnCl4]2–.
Effect of Er:YAG, Co2 lasers, papain, and bromelain enzymes dentin treatment on shear bond strength of composite resin
Authors: Sharafeddin Farahnaz , Maroufi Sara
Published: August 2022

Objective

Effective bond strength of composite resin restoration leads to its durability, so evaluation of dentin surface treatment with enzymes and laser for higher bond strength is an important factor.

Materials and Methods

Sixty human molar teeth were cut at a depth of 2 mm of occlusal part and divided into six groups (n = 10). G1: etched with 37% phosphoric, G2 and G3: 10% papain or bromelain enzymes were used on the dentinal surface, G4: 10% papain and bromelain enzyme mixture were used for. Then, the specimens were washed with distilled water. In G5 and G6: Er:YAG or Co2 lasers were used on the dentin surface. An adhesive system was applied and then nanohybrid composite was placed in teflon mold and light cured. Samples were subjected to a shear bond strength (SBS) test by universal testing machines. Statistical analysis was performed, using one‐way analysis of variance and Tukey HSD tests (p < .05).

Results

The mean SBS in G1 was significantly higher in comparison with the other groups (p < .0001). On the other hand, a comparison of mean SBS between groups 2, 3, 4, and 5 shows no significant differences (p = .221). The mean SBS in group 6 (Co2 laser) was significantly lower in comparison with the other groups (p < .0001).

Conclusion

Results showed that SBS of composite resin to dentin was not significantly affected, using either bromelain or papain 10% enzymes or erbium laser. Co2 laser had a negative effect on dentin and decreased the SBS. Phosphoric acid has the best result.
OMIP‐085: Cattle B‐cell phenotyping by an 8‐color panel
Authors: Roos Eduard O. , Bonnet‐Di Placido Marie , Mwangi William N. , Moffat Katy , Fry Lindsay M. , Waters Ryan , Hammond John A.
Published: August 2022

This 8‐color panel has been optimized to distinguish between functionally distinct subsets of cattle B cells in both fresh and cryopreserved peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). Existing characterized antibodies against cell surface molecules (immunoglobulin light chain (S‐Ig[L]), CD20, CD21, CD40, CD71, and CD138) enabled the discrimination of 24 unique populations within the B‐cell population. This allows the identification of five putative functionally distinct B‐cell subsets critical to infection and vaccination responses: (1) naïve B cells (BNaïve), (2) regulatory B cells (BReg), (3) memory B cells (BMem), (4) plasmablasts (PB), and (5) plasma cells (PC). Although CD3 and CD8α can be included as an additional dump channel, it does not significantly improve the panel's ability to separate “classical” B cells. This panel will promote better characterization and tracking of B‐cell responses in cattle as well as other bovid species as the reagents are likely to cross react.
Melatonin receptor gene polymorphisms as a risk factor in patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathy
Authors: Ocak Özgül , Silan Fatma , ŞAHİN Erkan Melih
Published: August 2022

Aims

Oxidative stress plays an important role in the pathogenesis of diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN). Melatonin is one of the most powerful endogenous antioxidants and has anti‐inflammatory properties. We investigated how the gene polymorphism of melatonin differs in patients with DPN compared to an healthy control group.

Materials and Methods

A total of 54 diabetic peripheral neuropathy patients who applied to the Neurology outpatient clinic between 2020 and 2021, and 53 healthy controls comparable with the patient group in terms of age and gender were included in the study. Electromyography was performed and the melatonin gene polymorphism was analysed using the pyrosequencing method.

Results

Melatonin gene variants rs2119882, rs13140012, and rs10830963 were analysed in patients and controls. The rs2119882 (G allele) has a protective role, and rs13140012 polymorphism has a related 5‐fold higher risk of DPN in the recessive model.

Conclusions

Melatonin gene polymorphisms have been shown to be associated with DPN. This is the first and only study investigating the relationship between melatonin gene polymorphisms and DPN. Ethnicity is very important in genetic studies, and it will give us more information on the role of melatonin gene variants in larger study groups of diabetic patients of other ethnic origin.
Divergence in host–parasite interactions during the cane toad's invasion of Australia
Authors: Schlippe Justicia Lia , Mayer Martin , Shine Richard , Shilton Cathy , Brown Gregory P.
Published: August 2022

Coevolutionary host–parasite “arms races” can be disrupted by new evolutionary forces imposed by biological invasions, affecting both host and parasite densities, as well as their traits. The spread of cane toads (Rhinella marina) and their parasitic lungworm (Rhabdias pseudosphaerocephala) across tropical Australia provides an ideal opportunity to study a perturbed host–parasite system. We conducted a cross‐infection experiment using common‐garden‐reared toads and lungworms from three regions (comprising long‐established, intermediate, and recently invaded sites across tropical Australia) to quantify traits of the parasite (infectivity and virulence) and the host (resistance and tolerance). Specifically, we assessed whether patterns of host–parasite co‐adaptation were better explained by spatial distances versus time since the separation of host and parasite populations. Infection success was highest when toads from long‐established populations were exposed to lungworms from close to the invasion front and lowest when frontal toads were exposed to parasites from older populations. This suggests that both parasite infectivity and host resistance have increased over the course of invasion. In contrast, most virulence/tolerance traits have not consistently increased or decreased during invasion. Higher parasite burdens were associated with increased feeding performance in toads and faster growth in lungworms, counter‐intuitive results that suggest host manipulation by the parasite.
Clinical course and decision‐making in heart failure by preload stress echocardiography: a preliminary study
Authors: Kusunose Kenya , Yamada Hirotsugu , Saijo Yoshihito , Nishio Susumu , Hirata Yukina , Ise Takayuki , Yamaguchi Koji , Fukuda Daiju , Yagi Shusuke , Soeki Takeshi , Wakatsuki Tetsuzo , Sata Masataka
Published: August 2022

Aims

Abnormal left ventricular diastolic response to preload stress can be an early marker of heart failure (HF). The aim of this study was to assess clinical course in patients with HF with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) who underwent preload stress echocardiography. In the subgroup analysis, we assessed the prognosis of patients with unstable signs during preload stress classified by treatment strategies.

Methods and results

We prospectively conducted preload stress echocardiographic studies between January 2006 and December 2013 in 211 patients with HFpEF. Fifty‐eight patients had abnormal diastolic reserve during preload stress (unstable impaired relaxation: unstable IR). Of 58 patients with unstable IR, 19 patients were assigned to additional therapy by increased or additional therapy and 39 patients were assigned to standard therapy. Composite outcomes were prespecified as the primary endpoint of death and hospitalization for deteriorating HF. During a median period of 6.9 years, 19 patients (33%) reached the composite outcome. Unstable group with standard therapy had significantly shorter event‐free survival than stable group. Patients with uptitration of therapy had longer event‐free survival than those with standard therapy group after adjustment of laboratory data (hazard ratio, 0.20, 95% confidence interval, 0.05–0.90; P = 0.036); the 10 year event‐free survival in patients with and without uptitration of therapy was 93% and 51%, respectively (P = 0.023).

Conclusions

Patients with unstable sign had significantly shorter event‐free survival than patients with stable sign. After additional therapy, the prognosis of patients with unstable signs improved. This technique may impact decision‐making for improving their prognosis.
Designing multinary noble metal‐free catalyst for hydrogen evolution reaction
Authors: Saidi Wissam A. , Nandi Tarak , Yang Timothy
Published: August 2022

The hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), the key reaction for electrocatalytic production of hydrogen, is of fundamental importance due to its simplicity yet is very important for renewable energy. Notwithstanding, Pt is still the main catalyst for this reaction, which is not practical for the industrial deployment of this technology owing to the high cost and scarcity of Pt. The successful synthesis of high entropy alloy (HEA) nanoparticles opens a new frontier for the development of new catalysts. Herein we investigate the design of a multinary noble metal‐free HER catalyst based on earth‐abundant elements Co, Mo, Fe, Ni, and Cu. Using a machine learning (ML) approach in conjunction with first‐principles methods, we build a model that can rapidly compute the hydrogen adsorption energy on the alloyed surfaces with high fidelity. Within the large composition space of the CoMoFeNiCu HEA, a large number of alloy combinations are shown to optimally bind hydrogen with a high probability. Further, most of these alloy compositions are found stable against dissociation into intermetallics, and hence synthesizable as a solid solution, by virtue of a large mixing entropy compared to mixing enthalpy and a small lattice mismatch between the elements. This finding is partly consistent with recent experimental results that synthesized five different CoMoFeNiCu HEA compositions. Our study underscores the significant impact that computational modeling and ML can have on developing new cost‐effective electrocatalysts in the nearly‐infinite materials design space of HEAs, and calls for experimental validation.
Almond peel‐derived iron‐induced activated carbon for high energy and long‐life supercapacitor in organic electrolyte
Authors: Gunasekaran Sivagaami Sundari , Badhulika Sushmee
Published: August 2022

Most carbon electrode materials for supercapacitors (SCs) are prepared by the conventional KOH activation method that entails several steps at higher temperatures resulting in low‐energy density. Herein, we report one‐step facile carbonization and low‐concentration‐activation aided synthesis of activated carbon (AC) from Prunus dulcis (almond) peel (AP) by using three activating agents, namely (a) KOH (AC‐K1); (b) KOH with K3[Fe(CN)6] (AC‐K2); (c) KOH with K3[Fe(CN)6] and K4[Fe(CN)6] (AC‐K3) for high‐performance symmetric supercapacitor (SSCs) applications in 6 M KOH and 1 M TEABF4 electrolytes. Detailed structural and chemical characterization studies were performed on the as‐prepared AC‐K1/K2/K3 samples and optimization studies revealed that AC‐K3 electrode delivers the highest performance due to the presence of trace amount of iron salts in the carbon network that acts as a catalyst and induces fast charge‐transfer for electrochemical reactions. The BET surface area of AC‐K1, AC‐K2, and AC‐K3 are found to be 408.89 m2 g−1, 819.79 m2 g−1, and 1061.6 m2 g−1, respectively. AC‐K3 electrode delivers an outstanding half‐cell specific capacitance of 320 F g−1 at 1 A g−1 in 6 M KOH. The SC device with AC‐K3 electrode delivers full‐cell specific capacitance of 290 F g−1 and 370.37 F g−1 in 6 M KOH and 1 M TEABF4, respectively. The highest energy density of 41.24 Wh kg−1 at 1349 W kg−1 power with the extended potential of ~2.7 V is delivered by the AC‐K3 electrode in 1 M TEABF4, which is considerably higher and unprecedented compared to other reported carbon materials. After 10 000 cycles, there is a ~100% capacitance retention. As a result of this study, the abundant bio‐derived AC‐K3 is found to be a potential long‐term electrode material for high‐energy SC applications.
Learning‐related changes in cellular activity within mouse dentate gyrus during trace eyeblink conditioning
Authors: Miller Lisa N. , Weiss Craig , Disterhoft John F.
Published: August 2022

Because the dentate gyrus serves as the first site for information processing in the hippocampal trisynaptic circuit, it an important structure for the formation of associative memories. Previous findings in rabbit had recorded populations of cells within dentate gyrus that may bridge the temporal gap between stimuli to support memory formation during trace eyeblink conditioning, an associative learning task. However, this previous work was unable to identify the types of cells demonstrating this type of activity. To explore these changes further, we did in vivo single‐neuron recording in conjunction with physiological determination of cell types to investigate the functional role of granule cells, mossy cells, and interneurons in dentate gyrus during learning. Tetrode recordings were performed in young‐adult mice during training on trace eyeblink conditioning, a hippocampal‐dependent temporal associative memory task. Conditioned mice were able to successfully learn the task, with male mice learning at a faster rate than female mice. In the conditioned group, granule cells tended to show an increase in firing rate during conditioned stimulus presentation while mossy cells showed a decrease in firing rate during the trace interval and the unconditioned stimulus. Interestingly, populations of interneurons demonstrated learning‐related increases and decreases in activity that began at onset of the conditioned stimulus and persisted through the trace interval. The current study also found a significant increase in theta power during stimuli presentation in conditioned animals, and this change in theta decreased over time. Ultimately, these data suggest unique involvement of granule cells, mossy cells, and interneurons in dentate gyrus in the formation of a trace associative memory. This work expands our knowledge of dentate gyrus function, helping to discern how aging and disease might disrupt this process.
Predictors of eHealth literacy in pregnant women: A structural equation model analysis
Authors: Şahin Ebru , Çatıker Aslıhan , Özdil Kamuran , Bulucu Büyüksoy Gizem Deniz
Published: August 2022

Objective

To develop and evaluate a theoretical model to explain the relationships between eHealth literacy and perception of health, and perception of pregnancy risk in pregnant women.

Method

This cross‐sectional study was carried out with 238 pregnant women in one of the hospitals in Turkey between March 15, 2021 and May 15, 2021. Data were collected using an Information Form, eHealth Literacy Scale, Perception of Health Scale, and Perception of Pregnancy Risk Questionnaire.

Results

The mean scores of the pregnant women participating in the study on eHealth literacy and perception of health were 30.45 ± 6.56 and 51.42 ± 6.91, respectively and their mean score on perception of pregnancy risk was 42.6 ± 29.38. The direct effect of the eHealth Literacy Scale on the “Risk for Baby” subscale of the Perception of Pregnancy Risk Questionnaire was insignificant whereas the scale's effect became significant with the Perception of Health Scale (β = −0.006; 0.057).

Conclusion

To reduce the perception of risk in pregnant women, it is important to improve not only their eHealth literacy but also their knowledge and attitudes about being healthy.
A scoping review of evaluations of and recommendations for default uncertainty factors in human health risk assessment
Authors: Johanson Gunnar , Moto Tshepo Paulsen , Schenk Linda
Published: August 2022

Uncertainty factors (UFs) are used to account for uncertainties and variability when setting exposure limits or guidance values. Starting from a proposal of a single UF of 100 to extrapolate from an animal NOAEL to a human acceptable exposure, the aspects of uncertainty and number of UFs have diversified and today there are several risk assessment guidelines that contain schemes of default UFs of varying complexity. In the present work, we scoped the scientific literature on default UFs to map developments regarding recommendations and evaluations of these. We identified 91 publications making recommendations for one or several UFs and 55 publications evaluating UFs without making explicit recommendations about numerical values; these were published between 1954 and 2021. The 2000s was the decade with the largest number of publications, interspecies differences and intraspecies variability being the most frequent topics. The academic sector has been the most active (76 out of 146 publications). Authors from the private sector more often presented UF recommendations, but differences between sectors regarding size of recommendations were not statistically significant. The empirical underpinning of the reviewed recommendations ranges from four to 462 chemicals, that is, relatively low numbers compared with the range of chemicals these default UFs are expected to cover. The recommended UFs have remained remarkably constant, with merely a slight decrease over time. Although chemical specific UFs are preferable, the widespread use of default UFs warrants further attention regarding their empirical and normative basis.
Muscle strength, but not body mass index, is associated with mortality in patients with non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Charatcharoenwitthaya Phunchai , Karaketklang Khemajira , Aekplakorn Wichai
Published: August 2022

Background

Whether adiposity and muscle function are associated with mortality risk in patients with non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) remains unknown. We examine the independent and combined associations of body mass index (BMI) and muscle strength with overall mortality in individuals with NAFLD.

Methods

We analysed data from 7083 participants with NAFLD in the Thai National Health Examination Survey and their linked mortality. NAFLD was defined using a lipid accumulation product in participants without significant alcohol intake. Poor muscle strength was defined by handgrip strength of <28 kg for men and <18 kg for women, according to the Asian Working Group on Sarcopenia. The Cox proportional‐hazards model was constructed to estimate the adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) for overall mortality.

Results

The mean age was 49.3 ± 13.2 years, and 69.4% of subjects were women. According to the Asian‐specific criteria, 1276 individuals (18.0%) were classified as lean NAFLD (BMI 18.5–22.9 kg/m2), 1465 (20.7%) were overweight NAFLD (BMI 23–24.9 kg/m2), and 4342 (61.3%) were obese NAFLD (BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2). Over 60 432 person‐years, 843 participants died. In Cox models adjusted for physiologic, lifestyle, and comorbid factors, individuals with lean NAFLD [aHR 1.18, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.95–1.48; P = 0.138] and subjects with overweight NAFLD (aHR 1.28, 95% CI: 0.89–1.84; P = 0.158) had mortality risk estimates similar to their obese counterparts, whereas participants with lower handgrip strength had significantly higher mortality risk than those with higher handgrip strength in men and women. Compared with obese individuals with the highest handgrip strength, elevated mortality risk was observed among men (aHR 3.21, 95% CI: 1.35–7.62, P = 0.011) and women (aHR 2.22, 95% CI, 1.25–3.93, P = 0.009) with poor muscle strength. Among men, poor muscle strength was associated with increased risk of mortality with obese NAFLD (aHR 3.94, 95% CI, 1.38–11.3, P = 0.013), overweight NAFLD (aHR 2.93, 95% CI, 1.19–7.19, P = 0.021), and lean NAFLD (aHR 2.78, 95% CI, 0.93–8.32, P = 0.065). Among women, poor muscle strength was associated with increased mortality risk with obese NAFLD (aHR 2.25, 95% CI, 1.06–4.76, P = 0.036), overweight NAFLD (aHR 1.69, 95% CI, 0.81–3.51, P = 0.153), and lean NAFLD (aHR 2.47, 95% CI, 1.06–5.73, P = 0.037).

Conclusions

In this nationwide cohort of individuals with NAFLD, muscle strength, but not BMI, was independently associated with long‐term overall mortality. Measuring handgrip strength can be a simple, non‐invasive risk stratification approach for overall mortality in patients with NAFLD.
Clinically meaningful change for the chair stand test: monitoring mobility in integrated care for older people
Authors: Gonzalez‐Bautista Emmanuel , de Souto Barreto Philipe , Salinas‐Rodriguez Aaron , Manrique‐Espinoza Betty , Rolland Yves , Andrieu Sandrine , Vellas Bruno ,   for the MAPT/DSA group
Published: August 2022

Background

Clinically meaningful changes in the five‐repetition chair stand test are essential for monitoring mobility in integrated care for older people. Recommendations for the clinically meaningful change of the chair stand test are not well known. Our study aimed to estimate the absolute and relative clinically meaningful changes for older adults' five‐repetition chair stand test.

Methods

We applied distribution‐based and anchor‐based methods in addition to receiver operator characteristics analyses to a population‐based study of community‐dwelling adults (SAGE Mexico study, n = 897) to derive the clinically meaningful change in the chair stand test. We used three self‐reported clinical anchors: moving around, vigorous activities, and walking 1 km. Our primary outcome was the incidence of disability for basic activities of daily living (ADL). Secondly, we examined our estimates of clinically meaningful change in a clinical trial population of healthy volunteers (MAPT, France, study n = 1575) concerning the risk of incident ADL disability.

Results

The age of SAGE Mexico participants ranged from 60 to 96 years; mean (SD) = 69.0 (6.2); 54.4% were female. Their baseline chair stand time averaged 12.1 s (SD = 3 s). Forty‐eight participants (5.6%) showed incident disability over 3 years. The absolute and relative clinically meaningful change cut points found over 3 years of follow‐up were 2.6 s and 27.7%, respectively. Absolute clinically meaningful change ranged from 0.5 to 4.7 s, depending on the estimation method. Relative clinically meaningful change ranged from 9.6 to 46.2%. SAGE Mexico participants with absolute and relative clinically meaningful declines (increasing 2.6 s and 27.7% from baseline time, respectively) showed an increased risk of ADL disability [aRR = 1.93; P = 0.0381; 95% CI (1.05, 3.46) and aRR = 2.27; P = 0.0157; 95% CI (1.22, 4.10)], respectively, compared with those without a clinically meaningful decline. MAPT participants [age range = 70–94; mean (SD) = 75.3 (4.4); 64.8% female; incident ADL disability over 5 years = 145(14.8%)] with a relative clinically meaningful decline (≥27.7% from baseline over 3 years) had a 74% higher risk of incident ADL disability than their counterparts [aHR = 1.74; P = 0.016; CI95% (1.11, 2.72); mean follow‐up of 58 months].

Conclusions

Community‐dwelling older adults with an increase of 3 s or 28% in chair stand test performance over 3 years (approximately 1 s or 10% per year) could be the target of interventions to enhance mobility and prevent incident disability.
Ultrasonographic diagnosis of primary hepatic undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma
Authors: Wang Zhongqing , Xiao Ying , Zhang Bo , Xiaosong Li , Shao Jing , Liao Jingtang
Published: August 2022

Objective

To explore the ultrasonographic features of primary hepatic undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma (UPS) to increase the rate of accurate clinical diagnosis.

Methods

We analyzed all (n = 7) primary hepatic UPS cases who attended Our Hospital from 2010 to 2021 in terms of morphology, size, echogenicity, borders, blood flow signal, posterior echoes, and other ultrasonographic features.

Results

All studied masses were solitary and mainly invaded one lobe of the liver. All the masses had diameters exceeding 5.0 cm and were nonencapsulated. They mostly had clear borders and regular morphologies (6 of 7 [85.7%]). Echogenicity was hypoechoic (2 of 7 [28.6%]) or heterogeneous (5 of 7 [71.4%]). Echogenicity was enhanced at the posterior aspect in all cases. None of the cases exhibited calcification, but some showed mass liquefaction (2 of 7 [28.6%]). Blood flow signal from the mass was rich (2 of 7 [28.6%]), mild (2 of 7 [28.6%]) or minimal (3 of 7 [42.9%]). One case in this study underwent CEUS. The margins and the internal septa, and mural or septal nodules of the mass showed mild hyperenhancement in the arterial phase and portal venous phase, but mild hypoenhancement in late phase. There were large nonenhancing areas in all three phases.

Conclusion

When ultrasonography reveals a solitary, relatively large, regular, and nonencapsulated mass, primary hepatic UPS should be a differential diagnosis. Combining clinical findings with imaging modalities can increase the likelihood of an accurate diagnosis.
A cross‐sectional study investigating mental health and resilience among pre‐doctoral students at a US dental school
Authors: McKenzie Carly Timmons , Kent Mallory Peyton , Volero Amy
Published: August 2022

Purpose/objectives

This study explored key mental health measures as self‐reported by pre‐doctoral dental students enrolled in all four years of dental school and their relationships with a year in school and resilience.

Methods

This study utilized archival data from the National Collegiate Health Assessment (NCHA) survey administered in Fall 2020. This instrument is a compilation of validated measures assessing a broad spectrum of health‐related behaviors, including nutrition, substance use, social relationships, and mental health. The mental health measures explored in this study included validated scales assessing mental distress, suicide behavior risk, psychological well‐being, and resilience.

Results

Students in all 4 years of dental school completed the survey (62% response rate). Most students reported high resilience, positive psychological well‐being, and moderate mental distress, with mental health challenges spiking in the D2 and D3 years. Resilience emerged as a protective factor for student mental health. Years in school did not retain a significant impact on mental health when controlling for resilience.

Conclusions

Resilience is important in bolstering dental students' mental health. Dental students’ mental health challenges increased during the D2 and D3 years. Dental educators may positively influence student well‐being by taking measures that foster resilience at the beginning of and midway through dental school.