bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Insight into the LED-assisted deposition of platinum nanoparticles on the titania surface: understanding the effect of LEDs
Authors: Kubiak Adam , Varma Naisargi , Sikorski Marek
Published: December 2022

This paper proposes a novel LED-assisted deposition of platinum nanoparticles on the titania surface. For the first time, this process was supported by a UV-LED solution. We used two light sources with different wavelengths (λmax = 365 and 395 nm), and power (P = 1, 5, and 10 W) because the photodeposition process based on LEDs has not been defined. The TiO2–Pt material was discovered to be nano-crystalline anatase particles with nano-platinum particles deposited on the surface of titanium dioxide. Furthermore, the luminescence intensity decreased when Pt was added to TiO2, indicating that charge carrier recombination was reduced. The spectra matching of the photocatalyst and LED reactor was performed for the first time in this work. We proposed a convenient LED reactor that focused light in the range of 350–450 nm, allowing us to effectively use photo-oxidative properties of TiO2–Pt materials in the process of removing 4-chlorophenol. In the presented work, the LED light source plays a dual role. They first induce the platinum photodeposition process, before becoming an important component of tailored photoreactors, which is an important innovative aspect of this research.
Optimized detection of homologous recombination deficiency improves the prediction of clinical outcomes in cancer
Authors: Perez-Villatoro Fernando , Oikkonen Jaana , Casado Julia , Chernenko Anastasiya , Gulhan Doga C. , Tumiati Manuela , Li Yilin , Lavikka Kari , Hietanen Sakari , Hynninen Johanna , Haltia Ulla-Maija , Tyrmi Jaakko S. , Laivuori Hannele , Konstantinopoulos Panagiotis A. , Hautaniemi Sampsa , Kauppi Liisa , Färkkilä Anniina
Published: December 2022

Homologous recombination DNA-repair deficiency (HRD) is a common driver of genomic instability and confers a therapeutic vulnerability in cancer. The accurate detection of somatic allelic imbalances (AIs) has been limited by methods focused on BRCA1/2 mutations and using mixtures of cancer types. Using pan-cancer data, we revealed distinct patterns of AIs in high-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSC). We used machine learning and statistics to generate improved criteria to identify HRD in HGSC (ovaHRDscar). ovaHRDscar significantly predicted clinical outcomes in three independent patient cohorts with higher precision than previous methods. Characterization of 98 spatiotemporally distinct metastatic samples revealed low intra-patient variation and indicated the primary tumor as the preferred site for clinical sampling in HGSC. Further, our approach improved the prediction of clinical outcomes in triple-negative breast cancer (tnbcHRDscar), validated in two independent patient cohorts. In conclusion, our tumor-specific, systematic approach has the potential to improve patient selection for HR-targeted therapies.
Controlling the electrochemical activity of dahlia-like β-NiS@rGO by interface polarization
Authors: Wei Yiqing , Zou Xuefeng , Cen Chao , Zhang Bin , Xiang Bin , Hao Jiangyu , Wang Bo , Deng Mingsen , Hu Qin , Wei Shicheng
Published: December 2022

Herein, dahlia β-NiS has been synthesized by hydrothermal method. Benefit from a controllable interface polarization, the β-NiS@rGO//rGO asymmetric supercapacitor exhibits excellent electrochemical performance among NiS-based supercapacitors.
Balancing the antibacterial and osteogenic effects of double-layer TiO2 nanotubes loaded with silver nanoparticles for the osseointegration of implants
Authors: Sun Lei , Chen Xuzhuo , Chen Ruiguo , Ji Zhibo , Mu Haizhang , Liu Chun , Yu Jinlan , Wang Jiarong , Xia Rong , Zhang Shanyong , Xu Yin , Ma Kun , Xia Lunguo
Published: December 2022

The improvement of Ag nanoparticles includes not only the antibacterial effect but also balancing the side effects from the antibacterial effect and osteogenesis properties, which can lead to an increased success rate of titanium implants.
Liquid-phase epitaxial growth of multiple MOF thin films with high lattice mismatch
Authors: Chang Li-Mei , Ma Zhi-Zhou , Huang Jiandong , Gu Zhi-Gang
Published: December 2022

We have prepared a series of multiple (bi-varietal and tri-varietal) pillar-layered MOF thin films [Cu2L2dabco]n (L = bdc, bpc and tpdc) with high lattice mismatch (up to 77.8%) using a liquid-phase epitaxial layer by layer method.
A synergetic model for implementing single-component white-light emission: a case study of zero-dimensional cadmium halides
Authors: Yuan Jiantao , Zhou Guojun , Zhang Jian , Zhang Xian-Ming
Published: December 2022

A serial of 0D (C6H7NX)2CdX4 (X = Cl, Br, I) are developed, and the synergetic controlling of π-conjugated ligands and [CdX4] units enables single-component ultra-broadband white-light emissions of (C6H7NCl)2CdCl4 and (C6H7NBr)2CdBr4.
A metal-free protocol for the preparation of amines using ammonia borane under mild conditions
Authors: Li Xinmin , Hu Yue , Alenad Asma M. , Zhou Bei , Ma Zhuang , Gao Jie , Jagadeesh Rajenahally V. , Beller Matthias
Published: December 2022

A mild and convenient reductive amination protocol for the synthesis of structurally diverse secondary and tertiary amines as well as N-methylated products under metal-free conditions is presented.
Discriminative ‘turn-on’ fluorescence sensing of volatile halogenated solvents using a cleft-shaped 4-amino-1,8-naphthalimide Tröger's base fluorophore
Authors: Mohan Binduja , Umadevi Deivasigamani , Shanmugaraju Sankarasekaran
Published: December 2022

A new cleft-shaped 2-picolyl-4-amino-1,8-naphthalimide Tröger's base (TBNap) was synthesized and employed as a fluorescent ‘turn-on’ chemosensor for the discriminative sensing of volatile halogenated solvents.
Core–shell polyoxometalate-based zeolite imidazole framework-derived multi-interfacial MoSe2/CoSe2@NC enabling multi-functional polysulfide anchoring and conversion in lithium–sulfur batteries
Authors: Zhang Lunan , Li Tangsuo , Zhang Xuecheng , Ma Zhiyuan , Zhou Qiuping , Liu Yi , Jiang Xinyuan , Zhang Hangyu , Ni Lubin , Diao Guowang
Published: December 2022

Multi-interfacial MoSe2/CoSe2@NC with a core–shell structure derived from PMo12@ZIF exhibits multi-functional polysulfide anchoring and catalysis as a cathode host in lithium–sulfur batteries.
Resolving atomistic structure and oxygen evolution activity in nickel antimonates
Authors: Rao Karun K. , Zhou Lan , Lai Yungchieh , Richter Matthias H. , Li Xiang , Lu Yubing , Yano Junko , Gregoire John M. , Bajdich Michal
Published: December 2022

Identification of the crystal structure of novel Ni–Sb–O catalyst for oxygen evolution reaction. Calculated properties consistent with experimentally measured photoactivity and resistance to corrosion.
Acid-triggered two-stage superlarge redshift absorption for turn-on type photothermal conversion at the first and second near-infrared window
Authors: Xu Xiao-Qi , Ma Yingchao , Zhao Ning-jiu , Tian Shangjie , Lei Hechang , Wang Yapei
Published: December 2022

A series of “turn-on” type NIR materials are developed with two-stage superlarge redshifted absorption in the first and second NIR window under the stimulation of protonation for smart photothermal conversion.
Micro-structured P–N junction surfaces: large-scale preparation, antifouling properties, and a synergistic antibacterial mechanism
Authors: Ni Mengfei , Li Wenwen , Yuan Bing , Zou Shuai , Cheng Wei , Yang Kai , Su Jiandong , Sun Bingwei , Su Xiaodong
Published: December 2022

P–n junctions enhance the anti-infection ability of micro-pyramid structured surfaces. The synergetic effect of mechanical rupture and electric injury is supposed to be responsible for the potent antibacterial activity.
Organic ammonium iodide salts as passivation for buried interface enables efficient and stable NiOx based p-i-n perovskite solar cells
Authors: Lammar Stijn , Van Gompel Wouter , Lenaers Stijn , Mertens Martijn , Boyen Hans-Gerd , Desta Derese , Hadipour Afshin , Lutsen Laurence , Vanderzande Dirk , Krishna Anurag , Abdulraheem Yaser , Aernouts Tom , Poortmans Jef
Published: December 2022

The interfaces between a halide perovskite absorber film and its charge transporting layers have been identified as one of the key bottlenecks for achieving high performance and stability.
Highly twisted bipolar molecules for efficient near-ultraviolet organic light-emitting diodesviaa hybridized local and charge-transfer mechanism
Authors: Zhong Ziting , Liu Zhangshan , Geng Sinuo , Li Huihui , Feng Xin Jiang , Zhao Zujin , Lu Hua
Published: December 2022

Using a twisting linker strategy, stable NUV luminogens are prepared with nearly quantitative luminescence. Nondoped OLEDs are fabricated using the dyes as emitters and NUV electroluminescence is achieved with a maximum EQE of 6.97% and a small FWHM of 48 nm.
Effect of Realistic Test Conditions on Perception of Speech, Music, and Binaural Cues in Normal-Hearing Listeners
Authors: Yoon Yang-Soo , Jaisinghani Priyanka , Goldsworthy Raymond
Published: December 2022

Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to determine the feasibility of online testing in a quiet room for three auditory perception experiments in normal-hearing listeners: speech, music, and binaural cue.

Method:

Under Experiment 1, sentence perception was measured using fixed signal-to-noise ratios (SNRs: +10 dB, 0 dB, and −10 dB) and using adaptive speech reception threshold (SRT) procedures. The correct scores were compared between quiet room and soundproof booth listening environments. Experiment 2 was designed to compare melodic contour identification between the two listening environments. Melodic contour identification was assessed with 1, 2, and 4 semitone spacings. Under Experiment 3, interaural level difference (ILD) and interaural time differences (ITD) were measured as a function of carrier frequency. For both measures, two modulated tones (400-ms duration and 100-Hz modulation rate) were sequentially presented through headphones to both ears, and subjects were asked to indicate whether the sound moved to the left or right ear. The measured ITD and ILD were then compared between the two listening environments.

Results:

There were no significant differences in any outcome measures (SNR- and SRT-based speech perception, melodic contour identification, and ITD/ILD) between the two listening environments.

Conclusions:

These results suggest that normal-hearing listeners may not require a controlled listening environment in any of the three auditory assessments. As comparable data can be obtained via the online testing tool, using the online auditory experiments is recommended.
A PLL‐equivalent model for low‐frequency stability analysis of voltage source converter connected to weak grid
Authors: Li Xialin , Zhang Chen , Zhu Lin , Wang Zhi , Guo Li
Published: December 2022

This study focuses on stability of weak grid connected voltage source converter (WG‐VSC) in Low‐frequency mode (LFM) (around 1–10 Hz), which is dominated by interactions among phase‐locked loop (PLL), outer loop control and weak grid condition. In order to clearly reveal LFM mechanism of WG‐VSC, a simple but effective PLL‐equivalent model has been proposed. First, a generic small signal model consisted of PLL and ‘outer loop & WG’ two parts is derived. Then, the transfer function of complicated ‘outer loop & WG’ part is divided into two parallel channels, representing the impact of active side control and reactive side control on LFM of WG‐VSC respectively. Finally, based on the multi‐mode decomposition theory, a simple but effective second order PLL‐equivalent (E‐PLL) model is obtained for LFM stability analysis of WG‐VSC. The effectiveness of E‐PLL model has been verified by simulation results in PSCAD/EMTDC and experimental results based on a hardware platform.
Joint transformer progressive self‐calibration network for low light enhancement
Authors: Fan Junyu , Li Jinjiang , Hua Zhen , Fan Linwei
Published: December 2022

When the lighting conditions are poor and the environmental light is weak, the image captured by the imaging device often has lower brightness and is accompanied by a lot of noise. The paper designs a progressive self‐calibration network model (PSCNet) for recovering high‐quality low‐light‐enhanced images. First, shallow features in low‐light images can be better focused and extracted with the help of attention mechanism. Next, the feature mapping is passed to the encoder and decoder modules, where the transformer and encoder‐decoder jump connection structures can be better combined with the semantic information of the context to learn rich deep feature information. Finally, the self‐calibration module can adaptively cascade the features decoded by the decoder and input them into the residual attention module quickly and accurately. Meanwhile, the LBP features of the image are also fused into the feature information of the residual attention module to enhance the detailed texture information of the image. Qualitative analysis and quantitative comparison of a large number of experimental results show that this method outperforms existing methods.
Combined Revascularization and Free Flap Reconstruction for Chronic Limb-Threatening Ischemia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Shimbo Keisuke , Kawamoto Haruka , Koshima Isao
Published: December 2022

Background Combined revascularization and free flap reconstruction is one treatment method for chronic limb-threatening ischemia (CLTI) with complex wounds. The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to investigate the characteristics of this combined procedure and to assess postoperative outcomes.

Methods A systematic search was performed across PubMed, Scopus, and the Web of Science for studies between January 2000 and February 2022. A random-effects meta-analysis for postoperative outcome was conducted.

Results Fifteen articles encompassing 1,176 patients with 1,194 free flaps were ultimately included in the qualitative and quantitative assessment. Our meta-analysis showed the following complication rates for short-term postoperative outcomes: 37% (95% confidence interval [CI], 18–53%; I
2 = 74%) for reoperation, 13% (95% CI, 2–24%; I
2 = 0%) for vascular thrombosis, 9% (95% CI, 0–17%; I
2 = 0%) for total flap failure, 8% (95% CI, 0–17%; I
2 = 0%) for partial flap failure, 4% (95% CI, 0–10%; I
2 = 0%) for amputation, and 3% (95% CI, 0–9%; I
2 = 0%) for 30-day mortality. The 1-, 3-, and 5-year limb salvage rates were 86% (95% CI, 78–92%), 81% (95% CI, 68–88%), and 71% (95% CI, 53–83%), respectively. The 1-, 3-, and 5-year patient survival rates were 93% (95% CI, 90–96%), 92% (95% CI, 77–97%), and 75% (95% CI, 50–88%), respectively.

Conclusion Combined revascularization and free flap reconstruction for CLTI with complex wounds was clearly effective for the long-term outcomes. However, this combined procedure should be considered on the assumption that the reoperation rate is high and that flap-related complications rate may be higher than lower extremity reconstruction of other etiologies.
A Case of Paranoid Schizophrenia Treated with Individualised Homoeopathy
Authors: Gilla Deepthi , ND Mohan , SR Sreelakshmy
Published: December 2022

Background Schizophrenia is a chronic, complex, highly disabling, serious mental disorder characterised by distortions of thinking and perception. Psychotropic medicines used for management are effective but are characterised by severe limitations. Alternate safe and effective treatment regimens are being explored. Homoeopathy is a system of medicine based on individualistic approach with potential relevance to psychiatry.

Purpose The purpose of this case report is to demonstrate the utility of homoeopathy in management of schizophrenia.

Client Description A 37-year-old female patient was brought by her husband to outpatient department of psychiatry. Auditory hallucinations, referential delusions, thought withdrawal and emotional outbursts were reported during the interview.

Measures and Outcome The physician's initial assessment lead to diagnosis of schizophrenia and confirmed as paranoid schizophrenia by the psychiatrist. Clinical Global Impression-Schizophrenia (CGI-SCH) was used to assess the severity of symptoms at baseline and consecutive follow-ups for 18 months.

Intervention The patient was prescribed a single dose of Natrum carbonicum 200C and repeated only once after 8 months, when sleep disturbance demanded repetition.

Results Baseline CGI-SCH scores in domains of severity of illness and degree of change were 29 and 20, respectively, which reduced to 5 (normal) in both domains by 4 months and remained the same for the next 2 years.

Implications This case study reinforces the utility of homoeopathy in schizophrenia and throws light on importance of a thorough case taking of psychiatric patients to elicit totality of symptoms to arrive at the similimum.
Homoeopathic Treatment of Young Females with Subclinical Hypothyroidism: A Prospective Observational Study
Authors: Arora Preeti , Goel Meetu
Published: December 2022

Introduction Subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH) is defined as elevated levels of serum thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) (TSH: 5–20 μIU/mL; normal range: 0.15–3.5 μIU/mL) with normal serum levels of free thyroid hormones mainly free T4 (0.89–1.76 ng/dL). SCH does not affect the development process very much and hence there are no universally accepted recommendations for its treatment but it is important to have optimal thyroid function for normal growth and development in children; it may progress to overt hypothyroidism and other health issues. So, its diagnosis in early stage of life and hence its treatment will definitely benefit the growing children.

Objective The objective of this study is to review the role of homoeopathy in SCH in younger aged females.

Method Total 212 cases were screened, 54 diagnosed cases of SCH were enrolled on the basis of inclusion criteria and 4 cases dropped out from the study. Total 50 cases were given individualised homoeopathic medicines based on repertorisation of totality of symptoms and in consultation with Materia Medica.

Result Results showed significant difference after comparing pre- and post-treatment values using paired t-test; the difference in mean values of Serum TSH values was found to be statistically significant (p-value < 0.00001). At baseline, the mean TSH level was 7.158 μIU/mL which decreased to 4.368 μIU/mL (p < 0.00001).

Conclusion This study indicates the positive role of homoeopathic therapy in the management of SCH. Such study with bigger sample size through randomised controlled trial is needed for further validation.
Calming the Visual Storm: Management of Childhood Nystagmus
Authors: Sharma Pradeep
Published: December 2022

Childhood nystagmus creates a visual storm both for the affected child and the treating doctor. This problem occurring in the development phase of the child affects not only the vision but also the general development, if not diagnosed and managed in time. Moreover, some forms may even harbor a neurological tumor needing timely management. First, a brief introduction of nystagmus classification, a simplified approach to diagnose the common childhood nystagmus, and the value of electrophysiology will be presented. Next, the approach to treatment, using a thorough clinical examination, illustrated by patient examples of different types of nystagmus will be presented. The different forms of childhood nystagmus are described: idiopathic infantile nystagmus syndrome (IINS), sensory nystagmus (SN), fusion maldevelopment nystagmus (FMDN), spasmus nutans syndrome (SNS), nystagmus blockage syndrome, periodic alternating nystagmus, and others as well as their specific management. The role of electronystagmography and that of neuroimaging in specific conditions is life saving and is described. The role of auditory biofeedback, acupuncture, medical treatment, and surgical procedures like Augmented Anderson procedure, Hertle-Dell'Osso procedure, supra maximal retro-equatorial recession, and posterior fixation have been elucidated. Newer techniques have simplified the management options and improved the functional outcomes in childhood nystagmus. To conclude, children with nystagmus of types IINS, FMDN, SNS, or SN need to be managed differently. It is thus possible to timely manage these children, not only to save their life and improve their vision but also to improve their living quotient.
Prevalence of Screening for Diabetes Mellitus in Patients Previously Diagnosed with Gestational Diabetes: Factors Related to its Performance
Authors: Kindermann Lucas , Costa Leandro de Liz , Trapani Júnior Alberto
Published: December 2022

Objective To determine how many patients underwent screening for diabetes mellitus (DM) in the puerperium after a diagnosis of gestational DM (GDM) and which factors were related to its performance.

Methods The present is a prospective cohort study with 175 women with a diagnosis of GDM. Sociodemographic and clinico-obstetric data were collected through a questionnaire and a screening test for DM was requested six weeks postpartum. After ten weeks, the researchers contacted the patients by telephone with questions about the performance of the screening. The categorical variables were expressed as absolute and relative frequencies. The measure of association was the relative risk with a 95% confidence interval (95%CI), and values of p ≤ 0.05 were considered statistically significant and tested through logistic regression.

Results The survey was completed by 159 patients, 32 (20.1%) of whom underwent puerperal screening. The mean age of the sample was of 30.7 years, and most patients were white (57.9%), married (56.6%), and had had 8 or more years of schooling (72.3%). About 22.6% of the patients used medications to treat GDM, 30.8% had other comorbidities, and 76.7% attended the postnatal appointment. Attendance at the postpartum appointment, the use of medication, and the presence of comorbidities showed an association with the performance of the oral glucose tolerance test in the puerperium.

Conclusion The prevalence of screening for DM six weeks postpartum is low in women previously diagnosed with GDM. Patients who attended the postpartum consultation, used medications to treat GDM, and had comorbidities were the most adherent to the puerperal screening. We need strategies to increase the rate of performance of this exam.
Big data analysis of endovascular treatment of intracranial aneurysms: a bibliometric analysis of the top 100 most cited articles
Authors: Zhang Shuai , Liu Dong , Wang Jiao , Lv Ming
Published: December 2022

Background The impact of a literature report on a particular subject can be measured by its number of citations.

Objective The purpose of this study was to evaluate the characteristics of the literature reports in the field of endovascular treatment of intracranial aneurysms (IAs) by analyzing the top 100 most cited articles. It should be noted that the focus of this study is to describe the bibliometric characteristics.

Methods This bibliometric analysis dedicated only to endovascular treatment of IAs in our study. We searched the top 100 most cited articles in the field of endovascular treatment of IAs using the search tool of the Web of Science (WOS). We evaluated the characteristics of these high-impact publications, including publication year, category, journal, author's country, etc.

Results The top 100 most cited articles were cited 281.3 times, on average. The United States has published the most articles every year compared with other countries. These highly cited articles are mostly published in the Journal of Neurosurgery. Eighty-six of the top 100 most cited articles were clinical studies.

Conclusion The bibliometric analysis provides insight over the development and the growing trend in endovascular treatment of IAs. This study can help researchers better understand the global overview of this field, and it also provides leads about promising areas of future research and potential collaborations.
Botulism in the Brazilian Amazon: a life-threatening disease in a neglected population
Authors: Oliveira Louise Makarem , Gonçalves Daniel Buzaglo , Cabral Lucas de Cristo Rojas , Bernardino Marília Rosa Abtibol , Feitoza Pablo Vinícius Silveira
Published: December 2022

Background Botulism is a rare and potentially fatal neuroparalytic syndrome caused by the gram-positive anaerobe spore-forming bacterium Clostridium botulinum. The microorganism produces a neurotoxin that inhibits the presynaptic release of acetylcholine at the neuromuscular junction, clinically leading to a myasthenic syndrome.

Objective To describe the recent outbreak of botulism cases and its demographic, clinical, and laboratory characteristics.

Methods We report 4 patients with botulism in the recent outbreak occurred between 2017 and 2019 in the state of Amazon.

Results Out of four patients with botulism, three contracted it from eating contaminated food and one had wound botulism. We emphasize the excellent clinical outcome of the different disease presentations in our case series.

Conclusion The temporal proximity of these reports may suggest a new rise in the number of cases in the upcoming years. A possible hypothesis is that the rarity of the disease decreased the awareness regarding the primary prevention or even a diagnosis by an untrained physician.
The antiinflammatory and electrophysiological effects of fingolimod on penicillin-induced rats
Authors: Türel Canan Akünal , Çelik Hümeyra , Torun İbrahim Ethem , Çetinkaya Ayhan , Türel İdris
Published: December 2022

Background The fact that inflammation triggers epileptic seizures brings to mind the antiepileptic properties of anti-inflammatory drugs.

Objective To investigate the electrophysiological and anti-inflammatory effects of fingolimod on an experimental penicillin-induced acute epileptic seizure model in rats.

Methods Thirty-two male Wistar rats were divided into four groups: control (penicillin), positive control (penicillin + diazepam [5 mg/kg]), drug (penicillin + fingolimod [0.3 mg/kg]) and synergy group (penicillin + diazepam + fingolimod). The animals were anesthetized with urethane, and epileptiform activity was induced by intracortical injection of penicillin (500,000 IU). After electrophysiological recording for 125 minutes, IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-6 were evaluated by ELISA in the serum of sacrificed animals.

Results During the experiment, animal deaths occurred in the synergy group due to the synergistic negative chronotropic effect of diazepam and fingolimod. Although not statistically significant, fingolimod caused a slight decrease in spike-wave activity and spike amplitudes in the acute seizure model induced by penicillin (p > 0.05). Fingolimod decreased serum IL-1β (p < 0.05); fingolimod and diazepam together reduced IL-6 (p < 0.05), but no change was observed in serum TNF-α values.

Conclusion Even in acute use, the spike-wave and amplitude values of fingolimod decrease with diazepam, anticonvulsant and anti-inflammatory effects of fingolimod will be more prominent in chronic applications and central tissue evaluations. In addition, concomitant use of fingolimod and diazepam is considered to be contraindicated due to the synergistic negative inotropic effect.
Comparison of the Effects of GMCSF-Containing and Traditional Culture Media on Embryo Development and Pregnancy Success Rates
Authors: Adanacıoglu Fatih , Çetin Çağlar , Tokat Gozde , Adanacıoglu Durdane , Karasu Ayse Filiz Gokmen , Çetin Mehmet Turan
Published: December 2022

Objective The use of granulocyte macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF)-containing medium, which is a commercial medium that is used for cultivation of embryos in in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatments, has been suggested to increase the efficiency of this procedure in patients with previous multiple unsuccessful attempts. In this retrospective study, we analyzed GM-CSF-containing embryo culture media compared with traditional culture media in terms of development of embryos, pregnancy, and ongoing pregnancy success and live birth rates.

Methods This is a prospective case control study conducted in a single center. A total of 131 unexplained infertility patients were included in the study. A cohort of 69 patients whose embryos were cultured in GM-CSF-containing medium and a control group of 62 age-matched patients whose embryos were cultured in conventional Sage One Step medium were included in the study. The major study outcomes were achievement of pregnancy and ongoing pregnancy rate at 12 weeks of gestation.

Results The pregnancy and ongoing pregnancy rates of the patients whose embryos were cultured in GM-CSF-containing medium were 39.13% and 36.23%, respectively. These were higher than the rates of the control group, which were 30.65% and 29.03%, respectively, although this difference was not statistically significant. In addition, the 5th-day embryo transfer percentage in the GM-CSF group was higher than in the control group (34.78% versus 27.4%).

Conclusion The main findings of our study were that there was no difference between the GM-CSF-enhanced medium and the control group in terms of our major study outcomes. However, blastomere inequality rate and embryo fragmentation rates were lower in the GM-CSF group.
Randomized Clinical Trial Comparing Quadratus Lumborum Block and Intrathecal Morphine for Postcesarean Analgesia
Authors: Araújo Karoline Moura de , Ferraro Leonardo Henrique Cunha , Sun Sue Yasaki , Mattar Rosiane
Published: December 2022

Objective To compare the efficacy of quadratus lumborum (QL) block and intrathecal morphine (M) for postcesarean delivery analgesia.

Methods Thirty-one pregnant women with ≥ 37 weeks of gestation submitted to elective cesarean section were included in the study. They were randomly allocated to either the QL group (12.5 mg 0.5% bupivacaine for spinal anesthesia and 0.3 ml/kg 0.2% bupivacaine for QL block) or the M group (12.5 mg bupivacaine 0.5% and 100 mcg of morphine in spinal anesthesia). The visual analog scale of pain, consumption of morphine and tramadol for pain relief in 48 hours, and side effects were recorded.

Results Median pain score and/or pain variation were higher in the morphine group than in the QL group (p = 0.02). There was no significant difference in the consumption of morphine or tramadol between groups over time. Side effects such as pruritus, nausea, and vomiting were observed only in the morphine group.

Conclusion Quadratus lumborum block and intrathecal morphine are effective for analgesia after cesarean section. Patients undergoing QL block had lower postoperative pain scores without the undesirable side effects of opioids such as nausea, vomiting, and pruritus.
Provider Response to a Venous Thromboembolism Risk Assessment and Prophylaxis Ordering Tool: Observational Study
Authors: Khan Sundas , King D'Arcy , Osmani Soheb , Harte Owen , Solomon Jeffrey , Niranjan Kunti , Rosenberg David J.
Published: December 2022

Objectives Our health system launched an initiative to regulate venous thromboembolism (VTE) risk assessment and prophylaxis with electronically embedded risk assessment models based on validated clinical prediction rules. Prior to system-wide implementation, usability testing was conducted on the VTE clinical decision support system (CDSS) to assess provider perceptions, facilitate adoption, and usage of the tool. The objective of this study was to conduct usability testing with end users on the CDSS' risk assessment model and prophylaxis ordering components.

Methods This laboratory usability testing study was conducted with 24 health care providers. Participants were given two case scenarios that mirrored real-world scenarios to assess likelihood of use and adoption. During each case scenario, participants engaged in a think-aloud session, verbalizing their decision-making process while interacting with the tool. Following each case scenario, participants completed the System Usability Scale (SUS) and a posttask interview. Participants' comments and interactions with the VTE CDSS were placed into coding categories and analyzed for generalizable themes by three independent coders.

Results Of the 24 participants, 50% were female and the mean age of all participants was 32.76 years. The average SUS across the different services lines was 72.39 (C grade). Each participant's comments were grouped into three overarching themes: functionality, visibility/navigation, and content. Comments included personalizing workflow for each service line, minimizing the number of clicks, clearly defining risk models, including background on risk scores, and providing treatment guidelines for order sets.

Conclusion An important step toward providing quality health care to patients at risk of developing a VTE event is providing user-friendly tools to providers. Following usability testing, our study revealed opportunities to positively impact provider behavior and acceptance. The rigor and breadth of this usability testing study and adoption of the optimizations should increase provider adoption and retention of the VTE CDSS.
Maternal Mercury Exposure and Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy: A Systematic Review
Authors: Dantas Aline de Oliveira , Castro Thiania dos Santos da Silva de , Câmara Volney de Magalhães , Santos Aline de Souza Espindola , Asmus Carmen Ildes Rodrigues Froes , Vianna Angelica dos Santos
Published: December 2022

Objective The present review aimed to synthesize the evidence regarding mercury (Hg) exposure and hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP).

Data Sources The PubMed, BVS/LILACS, SciELO and UFRJ's Pantheon Digital Library databases were systematically searched through June 2021.

Study Selection Observational analytical articles, written in English, Spanish, or Portuguese, without time restriction.

Data Collection We followed the PICOS strategy, and the methodological quality was assessed using the Downs and Black checklist.

Data Synthesis We retrieved 77 articles, of which 6 met the review criteria. They comprised 4,848 participants, of which 809 (16.7%) had HDP and 4,724 (97.4%) were environmentally exposed to Hg (fish consumption and dental amalgam). Mercury biomarkers evaluated were blood (four studies) and urine (two studies). Two studies found a positive association between Hg and HDP in the group with more exposure, and the other four did not present it. The quality assessment revealed three satisfactory and three good-rated studies (mean: 19.3 ± 1.6 out 28 points). The absence or no proper adjustment for negative confounding factor, such as fish consumption, was observed in five studies.

Conclusion We retrieved only six studies, although Hg is a widespread toxic metal and pregnancy is a period of heightened susceptibility to environmental threats and cardiovascular risk. Overall, our review showed mixed results, with two studies reporting a positive association in the group with more exposure. However, due to the importance of the subject, additional studies are needed to elucidate the effects of Hg on HDP, with particular attention to adjusting negative confounding.
Solidifying the link between arrhythmia and dementia
Authors: Patrick Chris
Published: December 2022

Atrial fibrillation affects blood flow in small arteries that feed the brain, which could lead to strokes and contribute to cognitive decline.
The Emergence of Quantum Mechanics
Authors: Williams Darren L. , Jackson Victoria S.
Published: December 2022

Spectroscopy is the study of light interacting with matter through absorption, emission, and scattering, and these spectroscopic phenomena led to the discovery of quantum theory and quantum mechanics. This book—Spectroscopy Theory in One Dimension—takes the reader from a simple violin string analogy all the way to the simulation of actual spectra using only the one-dimensional models of a particle in a box and a particle on a ring. A thorough understanding of this one-dimensional approach creates an intuition into the behavior of three-dimensional systems because the responses of one-dimensional quantum systems to changes in mass, size, and temperature are very similar to the responses of actual 3D atomic and molecular systems. This introductory chapter traces the emergence of quantum thinking from Descartes to Dirac including the surprising utility of symmetry in simplifying the computational concepts. This text will hopefully give the reader skill in interpreting the spectra of three-dimensional systems by introducing them to the detailed computation of spectral peak positions and intensities in one-dimensional systems.
Managing the Messy Mathematics
Authors: Williams Darren L. , Jackson Victoria S.
Published: December 2022

Simulation yields understanding. If you can simulate a phenomenon in nature, then perhaps you understand the parts that make up the natural phenomenon. This chapter begins with the phenomenon of the blackbody emission spectrum represented by Planck's Distribution Law. This is the data. We simulate this spectrum using a one-dimensional particle in a box system. The simulation matches the general shape of the Planck distribution. The rest of the chapter takes you progressively deeper into the equations that produce the wavelengths of the transitions, the spectral line shapes, the temperature dependence of the spectrum, and the intensity of the transitions. These equations all depend upon the wave functions and the interactions of the wave functions with light. This chapter provides a roadmap for spectroscopy by tracing the path from the data to the wave function. All the equations are presented in this chapter, but they are solved in the next three chapters. After reading the Analytical Calculus Chaps. (2–5), you will understand in detail that everything in the spectrum depends upon the wave function, the boundary conditions, the mass of the particle, and the temperature.

When confronted with the first application of wave mechanics to the hydrogen atom, Schrödinger exclaimed to his colleague Wilhelm Wein, “If only I knew more mathematics!” (1) This chapter provides a roadmap to help you manage the messy mathematics showing the equations that connect absorption, emission, and scattering spectra to the quantum world through wave mechanics.

These equations are solved using two independent approaches—analytical calculus and group theory. A third approach using numerical calculus is developed in a second book which teaches the practical skill of simulating spectroscopic phenomena. The ultimate goal of the text is to produce the math required to compute realistic simulated spectra of the particle in a box and particle on a ring systems. The mathematical results have been implemented in a spectral simulation spreadsheet to illustrate the success of quantum mechanical theory and to develop in the reader an intuition of everything that feeds into the features of the spectra of real molecular systems.

The analytical approach is useful for computing the general solutions for spectroscopic transition intensities and energies. From these equations, one can draw stick spectra similar to Schrödinger's (Fig. 1.2) and can readily see the dependence upon mass, temperature, and system size. Inclusion of the line-shape functions allows the reader to experiment with the influence of spectral resolution in the spectral simulations.

The group theoretical approach allows a Post-It-Note® computation of the selection rules, which is sufficient in most cases for the assignment of quantum numbers to the experimental spectral transitions.
Symmetry Selection Rules for the 1D Particle in a Box
Authors: Williams Darren L. , Jackson Victoria S.
Published: December 2022

In this chapter we apply the symmetry principles introduced in the previous chapter. The even and odd nature of the 1DPB wave functions are used to identify the symmetry elements that apply to the 1DPB system. These symmetry elements are used to assign the point group Ci to the 1DPB system. The Mulliken symmetries of Ag and Au are assigned to the wave functions. The transition moment integrals for absorption, emission, Rayleigh scattering, and Raman scattering are analyzed using the direct product table for the Ci point group. This yields the symmetry selection rules for the 1DPB system as Δn = { ± 1, ± 3, ± 5, …} for absorption and emission, and Δn = {0, ± 2, ± 4, ± 6, …} for Rayleigh and Raman scattering. These selection rules are compared to the results we computed in the analytical calculus solution chapters. The symmetry analysis accurately predicts the zero (forbidden) and non-zero (allowed) results of the transition moment integrals.
Symmetry Selection Rules for the 1D Particle on a Ring
Authors: Williams Darren L. , Jackson Victoria S.
Published: December 2022

In this chapter we apply the symmetry principles introduced in Cha. 7 to the 1D Particle on a Ring (1DPR) system. The model of a disk or ring (an oblate top) is used to identify the symmetry elements that apply to the 1DPR system. These symmetry elements are used to assign the point group D∞h to the 1DPR system. The Mulliken symmetries of Ag and En≠0 are assigned to the wave functions. The positive and negative phase regions (deflections of the ring harmonics) are used to determine whether a wave function is even (g) or odd (u) under inversion. The transition moment integrals for absorption, emission, Rayleigh scattering, and Raman scattering are analyzed using the direct product table for the D∞h point group. This yields the symmetry selection rules for the 1DPR system, which are Δn = { ± 1} for direct absorption and emission, and Δn = {0, ± 2} for Rayleigh and Raman scattering. These selection rules match the results we computed in the analytical calculus solution chapters. The results are also in agreement with the conservation of angular momenta for 1- and 2-photon processes.
Failures of Classical Physics Revisited, and Understood
Authors: Williams Darren L. , Jackson Victoria S.
Published: December 2022

This chapter uses the analytical results with spectral simulations to illustrate how quantum theory fully explains the four failures of classical physics commonly presented in physical chemistry textbooks. The Blackbody radiation profile and the UV Catastrophe are evident from the simulated spectrum because the Boltzmann distribution limits the population in the higher quantum states at moderate temperatures. The line spectra are obvious phenomena from the selection rules and stick spectra. The photoelectric effect is shown to be consistent with a “standing wave” view of quantized energy levels and a confirmation of the Planck equation (E = hν). The models in this chapter use the Boltzmann distribution to produce the temperature-dependent intensities and the Gaussian line shape function to provide realistic spectral profiles. The line shape effect is demonstrated using instrumental resolution (Δλ). Increasing resolution, which is a reduction of Δλ, is shown to transform a continuum spectrum into a discrete line spectrum.
Election cycles and global religious intolerance
Authors: Nellis Gareth
Published: December 2022

Mass elections are key mechanisms for collective decision-making. But they are also blamed for creating intergroup enmity, particularly while they are underway; politicians use polarizing campaign strategies, and losing sides feel resentful and marginalized after results are announced. I investigate the impact of election proximity–that is, closeness to elections in time–on social cleavages related to religion, a salient form of group identity worldwide. Integrating data from ∼1.2 million respondents across 25 cross-country survey series, I find no evidence that people interviewed shortly before or after national elections are more likely to express negative attitudes toward religious outgroups than those interviewed at other times. Subgroup analysis reveals little heterogeneity, including by levels of political competition. Generalized social trust, too, is unaffected by election calendars. Elections may not pose as great a risk to social cohesion as is commonly feared.
Interfacial variation in HfO2-based resistive switching devices with titanium electrodes under asymmetric bias operation
Authors: Zhou Kuan-Ju , Chen Min-Chen , Chang Ting-Chang , Lin Shih-Kai , Wang Yu-Bo , Zhang Yong-Ci , Yen Po-Yu , Shao Kui-You , Huang Hui-Chun , Huang Jen-Wei , Sze Simon M
Published: December 2022

Resistance fluctuations are persistent and critical issues in memory device applications. In recent years, several investigations have been conducted to unravel such fluctuations to further improve the retention and endurance of random resistance access memory (RRAM). Elucidating the switching mechanisms and causes of delamination at the insulator/electrode interface during practical bias operations is thus essential for improving RRAM performance. In this work, we first investigated the changes at the Ti/HfO2 interface in the Ti/HfO2/TiN RRAM device for consecutive bias operations. After the negative forming process and the following asymmetric bias operation conditions, the electrical output of the device decreased as a result of abnormal current degradation during iterative set/reset operations, during which the current high-resistance state (HRS) and low-resistance state (LRS) appeared to decrease. Transmission electron microscopy images and energy dispersive spectroscopy point data indicated that titanium oxides are formed at the Ti/HfO2 interface after asymmetric bias operation compared to the Ti/HfO2 interface of the pristine device, which provides direct evidence for validating the current degradation. In addition, to verify the influence of the electric fields on the devices during bias operation, we modulated the rising time of the set pulse triangle wavefront to further verify that the formation of TiO
x
depends on the amplitude of the electric field. Finally, the fitted current results indicate that the conduction mechanism after asymmetric bias operation in HRS and LRS is hopping conduction. Accordingly, a plausible physical model for bias operation in RRAM devices is proposed.
Resolution effects on spectral analysis of low alloy steel by laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy
Authors: Shen Sijie , Chen Peng , Luo Han , Wang Zhenzhen , Yan Junjie , Deguchi Yoshihiro
Published: December 2022

The influence of resolution on spectral analysis is of great significance to improve the measurement accuracy of laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS). In this study, low alloy steel samples were measured at different resolutions using a dual-channel spectrometer simultaneously to determine the plasma characteristics. The diffraction efficiency of the grating was different at different resolutions, which led to different spectral intensities measured at different resolutions. The resolution affected the LIBS spectral analysis. For plasma spectral analysis, the experimental results showed that the Boltzmann plot method was suitable for calculating the plasma temperature using the low-resolution spectra with 0.076 nm/pixel. Based on the high-resolution spectra with 0.01 nm/pixel, the Boltzmann double lines method was applied to calculate the plasma temperature, and the analysis line was I
FeI395.668/I
FeI400.524. Due to the influence of instrument broadening, Stark broadening could only be used to characterize the electron density using the high-resolution spectra. For quantitative analysis in LIBS spectral analysis, support vector machine regression (SVR) with different inputs was used to quantitatively analyze the Mn content in the low alloy steel. The prediction accuracy of the low-resolution spectra was poor compared to the high-resolution spectra. When the input was the target spectral intensities and the plasma state, the fitting accuracy and prediction accuracy were improved. This showed that SVR combined with the plasma state was an effective method to improve the accuracy of the quantitative analysis of Mn content in low alloy steel by LIBS.