bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mésaventure ou mauvaises habitudes ?
Authors: Côté Denyse , Simard Étienne
Published: October 2015

Les groupes de femmes du Québec ont progressivement arrimé leurs interventions à une nouvelle arène politique : la « gouvernance partagée » régionale (Côté et Tremblay-Fournier, 2011; Masson, 2001). Dès 1997, le gouvernement du Québec consacrait en effet la « place des femmes en développement régional », créant par la suite, en 2003, une obligation de résultat dans ce domaine. Parallèlement, il mettait sur pied en 1996 un fonds local de soutien à l’économie sociale pour répondre aux demandes du mouvement féministe de la Marche « Du pain et des roses ». Mais les femmes semblent avoir disparu depuis du discours local sur l’économie sociale. Cette absence se vérifie-t-elle toujours? Cet article tente de répondre à la question à l’aide d’une recherche de terrain effectuée auprès d’intervenants locaux en économie sociale.
Self-establishing communities enable cooperative metabolite exchange in a eukaryote
Authors: Campbell Kate , Vowinckel Jakob , Mülleder Michael , Malmsheimer Silke , Lawrence Nicola , Calvani Enrica , Miller-Fleming Leonor , Alam Mohammad T , Christen Stefan , Keller Markus A , Ralser Markus
Published: October 2015

Metabolite exchange among co-growing cells is frequent by nature, however, is not necessarily occurring at growth-relevant quantities indicative of non-cell-autonomous metabolic function. Complementary auxotrophs of Saccharomyces cerevisiae amino acid and nucleotide metabolism regularly fail to compensate for each other's deficiencies upon co-culturing, a situation which implied the absence of growth-relevant metabolite exchange interactions. Contrastingly, we find that yeast colonies maintain a rich exometabolome and that cells prefer the uptake of extracellular metabolites over self-synthesis, indicators of ongoing metabolite exchange. We conceived a system that circumvents co-culturing and begins with a self-supporting cell that grows autonomously into a heterogeneous community, only able to survive by exchanging histidine, leucine, uracil, and methionine. Compensating for the progressive loss of prototrophy, self-establishing communities successfully obtained an auxotrophic composition in a nutrition-dependent manner, maintaining a wild-type like exometabolome, growth parameters, and cell viability. Yeast, as a eukaryotic model, thus possesses extensive capacity for growth-relevant metabolite exchange and readily cooperates in metabolism within progressively establishing communities.
Management of acute pain
Authors: Goldstein Frederick J
Published: October 2015

In the United States, acute pain is still an undertreated condition. Effective management requires: (1) an understanding of the neurophysiologic, pathologic, sociologic, psychologic, and spiritual components present in the suffering patient; (2) proper and continual assessment using a pain scale (preferably 0 to 10); (3) charting the pain as the fifth vital sign; (4) use of preemptive analgesia to reduce postsurgical pain; (5) knowledge of barriers that exist among healthcare professionals, patients, and health care systems so that they can be countered; (6) recognition that neuropathic pain may be more effectively treated with local anesthestics, antidepressants, and anticonvulsants than with opioids; (7) knowledge that in certain conditions, nonsteroidalanti-inflammatory drugs will be more effective than acetaminophen. The physician must also clearly understand that opioids do not cause addiction (psychological dependence). Osteopathic physicians also have the additional benefit of providing nonpharmacologic treatment to patients presenting with acute pain.
Osteopathic manipulation for management of pain
Authors: Nicholas Alexander S , Bezilla Todd A , Jones Ruth
Published: October 2015

Pain, both acute and chronic, is a common problem among patients seeking treatment. Mechanical, thermal, or chemical stimuli alone or in combination initiate acute pain that if sufficiently intense and prolonged, can produce somatic dysfunction. Early diagnosis followed by commencement of osteopathic manipulative treatment suchas high-velocity, low-amplitude; muscle energy; counterstrain; facilitated positional release; and myofascial release can reduce acute pain and prevent its transformation into a chronic disorder.
Professional identification and affiliation of the 1992 graduate class of the colleges of osteopathic medicine
Authors: Aguwa Margaret I , Liechty Daniel Koop
Published: October 2015

This survey of the 1992 graduates of colleges of osteopathic medicine included questions regarding their identification with the osteopathic medical profession from application to medical school through residency training and practice. Findings of the study demonstrate that a large majority of graduates regard the profession positively. However, many express concerns about the limited training in advanced osteopathic manipulative skills, with several indicating a low level of confidence in integrating osteopathic techniques into clinical practice. Study respondents also assert that the osteopathic medical profession has yet to effectively project and promote its distinctiveness to the general public. These factors affect the overall identification and affiliation of the respondents to the osteopathic medical profession.Previous anecdotal and research reports suggested that a migration of graduates into non osteopathic postgraduate training programs and the de-emphasis of osteopathic manipulative medicine in clinical training sites have created an identity crisis within the profession. These reports stimulated the undertaking of this study. Challenges to the profession addressed in this paper include: (1) requiring advanced training in osteopathic manipulative medicine after the second year of medical school; (2) creating an awareness of the need for increased professional visibility; (3) producing effective public relations strategies to portray the osteopathic medical profession accurately; and (4) generating sufficient funds to carry out these strategies.
Current management of Heliobacter pylori infection
Authors: Pasternak Herbert I
Published: October 2015

Helicobacter pylori infection continues to be one of the hottest topics in gastroenterology, challenging the primary care physician daily with the clinical application of its new developments and frequency of involvement in differential diagnosis. This article offers'the primary care physician a practical approach to the dyspeptic office patient that emphasizes the differential diagnosis of H pylori. Included is a strategy for rapid patient evaluation through key questions in the history, simple maneuvers in the physical examination, and a logical approach to testing and therapy based on the latest literature. The recommendations for all these office-based steps are designed to be efficient, cost-effective, and clinically relevant.
Management of behavioral problems in elderly patients with dementia
Authors: Komara Francis A
Published: October 2015

A major challenge confronting healthcare providers in geriatrics involves the treatment of behavior problems in the elderly patient with dementia. The agitation affects the patient and the caregiver and their quality of life. A definitive diagnosis is difficult, and treatment often involves the injudicious use of medications. The purpose of this article is to identify the disorders involved, the assessment strategies, and pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic modes of therapy.
Pigmented Skin Lesion Biopsies After Computer-Aided Multispectral Digital Skin Lesion Analysis
Authors: Winkelmann Richard R. , Tucker Natalie , White Richard , Rigel Darrell S.
Published: October 2015

Background: The incidence of melanoma has been rising over the past century. With 37% of patients presenting to their primary care physician with at least 1 skin problem, primary care physicians and other nondermatologist practitioners have substantial opportunity to make an impact at the forefront of the disease process. New diagnostic aids have been developed to augment physician analysis of suspicious pigmented skin lesions (PSLs).

Objective: To determine the effects of computer-aided multispectral digital skin lesion analysis (MSDSLA) on dermatologists’ and nondermatologist clinicians’ decisions to biopsy suspicious PSLs after clinical and dermatoscopic evaluation.

Methods: Participants were shown 6 images of PSLs. For each PSL, participants were asked 3 times if they would biopsy the lesion: first after reviewing a clinical image of the PSL, again after reviewing a high-resolution dermatoscopic image, and again after reviewing MSDSLA probability findings. An answer was right if a melanoma or high-risk lesion was selected for biopsy or a low-risk lesion was not selected for biopsy. An answer was wrong if a melanoma or high-risk lesion was not selected for biopsy or a low-risk lesion was selected for biopsy. Clinicians’ decisions to biopsy were evaluated using χ2 analysis for proportions.

Results: Data were analyzed from a total of 212 participants, 177 of whom were dermatologists. Overall, sensitivity of clinical image review was 63%; dermatoscopic image review, 5%; and MSDSLA, 83%. Specificity of clinical image review was 59%; dermatoscopic image review, 40%; and MSDSLA, 76%. Biopsy decision accuracy was 61% after review of clinical images, 52% after review of dermatoscopic images, and 80% after review of MSDSLA findings. The number of lesions participants indicated that they would biopsy increased significantly, from 52% after reviewing clinical images to 63% after reviewing dermatoscopic images (P<.001). However, the overall number of specimens that participants indicated they would biopsy did not change significantly after they reviewed MSDSLA findings (53%).

Conclusion: Sensitivity, specificity, and biopsy decision accuracy increased after clinicians reviewed MSDSLA findings. The use of objective, computer-based diagnostic aids such as MSDSLA during clinical evaluations of ambiguous PSLs could aid clinicians’ decisions to biopsy such lesions.
Learning With Reflection: Practices in an Osteopathic Surgery Clinical Clerkship Through an Online Module
Authors: Lewis Kadriye O. , Farber Susan , Chen Haiqin , Peska Don N.
Published: October 2015

Context: The value of reflective practices has gained momentum in osteopathic medical education. However, the use of reflective pedagogies has not been explored in the larger context of medical course delivery and design, to the authors’ knowledge.

Objective: To determine the types of reflection demonstrated by osteopathic medical students on an online discussion board and to explore differences in discussion engagement caused by the use of a reflective learning self-assessment tool.

Methods: Using a mixed-method approach, reflection processes in an osteopathic surgery clinical clerkship online module were investigated in third-year osteopathic medical students. Discussion board messages were captured and coded. Both manual coding techniques and automated interrogation using NVivo9 (a computer program) for qualitative data were applied. Correlations of scores across 4 case-based discussion tasks and scores for self-reflection were computed as quantitative data.

Results: Twenty-eight students were included. Four main types of reflection (ie, content, contextual, dialogic, and personal) along with corresponding differentiated subthemes for each type of case-based discussion board group message were identified. Group collaboration revealed insights about the reflection process itself and also about the evidence of collective efforts, group engagements, and intragroup support among students. Student preparation revealed that students’ metacognition was triggered when they judged their own contributions to group work. Challenges in completing readings and meeting deadlines were related to the students’ long work hours.

Conclusion: Reflective practices are essential to the practice of osteopathic medicine and medical education. Curricula can promote the development of reflective skills by integrating these deliberate practices in educational activities.
Open, transparent and honest – the way we practice research
Authors: Dorch Bertil Fabricius
Published: October 2015

This paper makes the case for Open Science as a means to support and practice Responsible Conduct of Research. Responsible and ethical research practices imply research integrity in terms of transparency, honesty and accountability in all parts of research, being it when attaining funding for research, collecting and analyzing research data, collaborating on research, performing scholarly communication, e.g. authoring and disseminating research etc. Likewise, the topics normally associated with Open Science directly support responsible conduct and in fact, one can argue that Open Science is a ubiquitous prerequisite for good research practice.
Twelve-Month Contraceptive Supply Policies and Medicaid Contraceptive Dispensing
Authors: Rodriguez Maria I. , Meath Thomas H. A. , Daly Ashley , Watson Kelsey , McConnell K. John , Kim Hyunjee
Published: August 2024

Importance

Nineteen states have passed legislation requiring insurers to cover the dispensation of a 12-month supply of short-acting, hormonal contraception.

Objective

To determine whether 12-month contraceptive supply policies were associated with an increase in the receipt of 12-month or longer supply of contraception.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This retrospective cohort study included data from all female Medicaid enrollees aged 18 to 44 years who used short-acting hormonal contraception (ie, pill, patch, or ring) from 2016 to 2020.

Exposures

Eleven treatment states where legislation required insurers to cover a 12-month supply of contraception to continuing users and 25 comparison states without such legislation prior to December 2020.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Proportion of contraception months received via a single 12-month or longer fill.

Results

This study included 48 255 512 months of dispensed oral pill, patch, and ring contraception prescription supply among 4 778 264 female Medicaid enrollees. The majority of months of supplied contraception were for the contraceptive pill rather than the patch or ring. In a staggered difference-in-differences model, the 12-month supply policy was associated with an estimated 4.39–percentage point (pp) increase (95% CI, 4.38 pp-4.40 pp) in the proportion of contraception dispensed as part of a 12-month or longer supply, from a mean of 0.11% in treatment states during the first quarter of the study period. Investigating the heterogeneity in policy association across states, California stood out with a 7.17-pp increase (95% CI, 7.15 pp-7.19 pp) in the proportion of contraception dispensed as a 12-month or longer supply; in the other 10 treatment states, the policy association was less than 1 pp.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cohort study of Medicaid recipients using short-acting hormonal contraception, the passage of a 12-month contraceptive supply policy was associated with a minimal increase in the proportion of contraception dispensed through a 12-month or longer supply.
Acute Kidney Injury and High-Sensitivity Cardiac Troponin T Levels in the Emergency Department
Authors: Cyon Love , Kadesjö Erik , Edgren Gustaf , Roos Andreas
Published: August 2024

Importance

The clinical implications of high-sensitivity cardiac troponin T (hs-cTnT) measurements in patients with acute kidney injury (AKI) in the emergency department (ED) are largely unknown.

Objectives

To investigate associations between serum creatinine (SCr) concentrations and hs-cTnT kinetics, as well as the clinical accuracy of hs-cTnT for myocardial infarction (MI) in patients with AKI.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This retrospective cohort study included 15 111 patient visits to 7 EDs in Sweden from December 9, 2010, to August 31, 2017, by patients 18 years or older fulfilling AKI criteria with 2 or more SCr measurements and 1 or more hs-cTnT measurement. Statistical analysis was performed from October 2, 2022, to September 28, 2023.

Exposure

Dynamic change in SCr during the ED visits.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Linear mixed-effects models were used to estimate the log-linear regression of kinetic change in hs-cTnT. Logistic regression models were applied to calculate odds ratios (ORs) for change in hs-cTnT indicating acute myocardial injury (Δhs-cTnT >20% and elevated hs-cTnT >14 ng/L) in association with change in SCr, and to assess the diagnostic performance of hs-cTnT for MI in patients with chest pain.

Results

There was a total of 15 211 visits by 13 638 patients (median age, 74 years [IQR, 64-83 years]; 8709 men [57%]), of whom 1174 (8%) had an MI. Overall, 11 353 of patients at 14 037 visits without an MI diagnosis (81%) had myocardial injury, and 4396 patients at 14 037 visits (31%) had acute myocardial injury. The change in hs-cTnT among patients without MI was 1.8-fold higher in the highest vs the lowest change in SCr quartile (64.7% [95% CI, 58.4%-71.5%] vs 36.3% [95% CI, 32.4%-40.7%]; exponentiated β coefficient, 1.78 [95% CI, 1.62-1.96]). Patients in the former group were twice as likely to have acute myocardial injury (39% [1378 of 3516 visits] vs 23% [817 of 3507 visits]; adjusted OR, 2.32 [95% CI, 2.08-2.59]). Using a 0 hours hs-cTnT cutoff value of 52 ng/L or higher assigned 627 of 2388 patients (26%) with chest pain to a high-risk group in whom the specificity and positive predictive value for MI was low (78.5% [95% CI, 76.7%-80.2&] and 27.6% [95% CI, 24.1%-31.3%], respectively).

Conclusions and Relevance

This cohort study of patients in the ED suggests that dynamic change in SCr among patients with AKI was associated with hs-cTnT concentrations indicative of acute myocardial injury. These observations were accompanied by poor performance of recommended hs-cTnT–based algorithms for MI risk stratification.
Consumer Perceptions of Safety Information in Direct-to-Consumer Print Advertisements for Alzheimer Drugs
Authors: Markell Jenny , Odouard Ilina , Anderson Gerard F. , DiStefano Michael J.
Published: August 2024

This survey study assesses the effectiveness of drug advertisement to shape perception of the benefits and risks of and personal willingness to use and recommend an advertised drug.
Cancer Care Terminology in African Languages
Authors: Simba Hannah , Mutebi Miriam , Galukande Moses , Mahamat-Saleh Yahya , Aglago Elom , Addissie Adamu , Abebe Lidya Genene , Onwuka Justina , Odongo Grace Akinyi , Onyije Felix M. , Chimera Bernadette , Motlhale Melitah , de Paula Silva Neimar , Malope Desiree , Narh Clement T. , Msoka Elizabeth F. , Schüz Joachim , Prah Efua , McCormack Valerie
Published: August 2024

Importance

Effective communication between patients and health care teams is essential in the health care setting for delivering optimal cancer care and increasing cancer awareness. While the significance of communication in health care is widely acknowledged, the topic is largely understudied within African settings.

Objective

To assess how the medical language of cancer and oncology translates into African languages and what these translations mean within their cultural context.

Design, Setting, and Participants

In this multinational survey study in Africa, health professionals, community health workers, researchers, and scientists involved in cancer care and research and traditional healers were invited to participate in an online survey on a voluntary basis through online platforms. The survey provided 16 cancer and oncologic terms used in cancer diagnosis and treatment (eg, cancer, radiotherapy) to participants, mostly health care workers, who were asked to provide these terms in their local languages (if the terms existed) followed by a direct or close translation of the meaning in English. The survey was open from February to April 2023.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Patterns of meaning that recurred across languages were identified using thematic analysis of 16 English-translated terms categorized into 5 themes (neutral, negative, positive, phonetic or borrowed, and unknown).

Results

A total of 107 responses (response rate was unavailable given the open and widespread distribution strategy) were collected from 32 countries spanning 44 African languages, with most participants (63 [59%]) aged 18 to 40 years; 54 (50%) were female. Translations for cancer were classified as phonetic or borrowed (34 [32%]), unknown (30 [28%]), neutral (24 [22%]), and negative (19 [18%]), with the latter category including universal connotations of fear, tragedy, incurability, and fatality. Similar elements connoting fear or tragedy were found in translations of terms such as malignant, chronic, and radiotherapy. The term radiotherapy yielded a high percentage of negative connotations (24 [22%]), with a prevailing theme of describing the treatment as being burned or burning with fire, heat, or electricity, which may potentially hinder treatment.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this survey study of cancer communication and the translation of oncology terminology in African languages, the findings suggest that the terminology may contribute to fear, health disparities, and barriers to care and pose communication difficulties for health professionals. The results reinforce the need for culturally sensitive cancer terminology for improving cancer awareness and communication.
Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Take-Home Methadone Use for Medicare Beneficiaries With Opioid Use Disorder
Authors: Choi Sugy , Zhang Yutong , Unruh Mark Aaron , McGinty Emma E. , Jung Hye-Young
Published: August 2024

This cross-sectional study examines racial and ethnic disparities in take-home methadone use among Medicare beneficiaries with opioid use disorder following the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s policy change in March 2020.
Classical Monocytes Shuttling for Precise Delivery of Nanotherapeutics to Glioblastoma
Authors: Li Congwen , Niu Congyi , Chen Lin , Yu Baichao , Luo Feifei , Qie Jingbo , Yang Hui , Qian Jiawen , Chu Yiwei
Published: August 2024

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most aggressive brain tumor for which current therapies have limited efficacy. Immunosuppression and difficulties in accessing tumors with therapeutic agents are major obstacles for GBM treatments. Classical monocytes (CMs) possess the strongest infiltration among myeloid cells recruited into tumors during tumorigenesis. In this study, CMs are utilized to deliver the small‐molecule CUDC‐907 encapsulated in nanoparticles (907‐NPs@CMs) for GBM therapy. Hitchhiking on CMs enables more 907‐NPs to successfully penetrate the blood–brain barrier (BBB) and reach the interior of tumors. Results demonstrate that 907‐NPs@CMs significantly improve the survival rates by suppressing tumor growth and reversing the immunosuppression of tumor microenvironment (TME). Furthermore, the high delivery efficiency of CMs reduces the amount of CUDC‐907 required for treatments, reducing the physiological toxicity and off‐target effects caused by high doses. 907‐NPs@CMs is a safe and versatile therapeutic system that provides a platform for targeted drug delivery to tumors and the ability to treat GBM through a combination of chemotherapy and immunotherapy.
Fungal Enzyme‐Responsive Hydrogel Drug Delivery Platform for Triggered Antifungal Release
Authors: Vera‐González Noel , Deusenbery Carly , LaMastro Veronica , Shukla Anita
Published: August 2024

Fungal infections can lead to debilitating consequences if they are not treated effectively. Antifungal drugs used to treat these infections can be toxic and overuse contributes to growing antifungal resistance. Candida spp., particularly C. albicans, are implicated in a majority of these infections. Virulent C. albicans produce secreted aspartic proteases (Saps) that aid in pathogen tissue invasion and proliferation at an infected site. Here, fungi‐responsive hydrogels are developed that degrade in the presence of Saps to provide a triggered release of encapsulated liposomal antifungals. The hydrogel backbone incorporates a Sap‐cleavable peptide sequence enabling Sap‐responsive degradation. Hydrogels are found to effectively degrade in the presence of Saps extracted from C. albicans. Encapsulated liposomal antifungals show similar release kinetics as hydrogel degradation products in the presence of Saps, supporting a degradation‐dependent release mechanism. Antifungal liposome‐loaded responsive hydrogels exhibit successful eradication of C. albicans cultures and remain stable in sterile murine wound fluid. Finally, no significant cytotoxicity is observed for murine fibroblast cells and red blood cells exposed to hydrogel degradation products. These fungi‐responsive hydrogels have the potential to be used for local, on‐demand delivery of antifungal drugs, for effective treatment of fungal infections while helping to limit unnecessary exposure to these therapeutics.
A Universal Strategy for Reversible Photochromism of Viologen Derivatives in Solutions
Authors: Guo Zeying , Su Yangzhe , Zong Hao , Zhou Fan , Wang Min , Zhou Gang
Published: August 2024

Viologens are important members of organic photochromic (PC) materials. However, the photochromism of the viologen derivatives in solutions, especially in water, can be hardly detected due to the restricted photo‐induced electron transfer (PET) caused by the solvation of counter anions and fast rapid back electron transfer upon oxidation by the dissolved oxygen. Herein, a universal strategy is successfully developed for reversible photochromism of viologen derivatives in various solvents by simply adding an electron donor triethylamine (TEA). Upon the formation of a charge transfer complex, PET process can smoothly occur, resulting in the formation of stable viologen radicals. The PC kinetic analysis reveals that a viologen derivative with narrower bandgap exhibits faster coloration process upon ultraviolet (UV) light irradiation. Moreover, incorporating 1‰ eq. of a conjugation‐extended viologen derivative as a photosensitizer significantly shortens the coloring time of a conventional viologen without affecting its bleached and colored states. Based on the PC properties of viologen derivatives, distinct patterns are realized in their aqueous solutions and pre‐soaked erasable papers upon UV light irradiation. Overall, the findings not only develop a universal strategy for reversible photochromism of viologen derivatives in various solvents but also open a new avenue for information storage and anticounterfeiting applications.
Large‐Scalep‐Type Nonvolatile FGFET Memory Array Based on 2H‐MoTe2
Authors: Li Minglai , Cheng Zhixuan , Jia Xionghui , Chen Jiamin , Xu Wanjin , Li Yanping , Dai Lun
Published: August 2024

Transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs) based large‐scalep‐type floating‐gate field‐effect transistor (FGFET) memory array has been fabricated for the first time. Chemical‐vapor‐deposition grown seamless co‐planes 2H‐ and 1T′‐MoTe2serve as the channel and source/drain electrodes, respectively. High‐κ Al2O3 layers act as the tunneling and blocking layers. Arrayed Pd/Au serves as floating and top gates. The overall performances of the devices are excellent among those of the reported TMDCs‐based FGFET memories. Typical device exhibits large memory windows of ≈11.5 and 2.8 V and on/off ratios of ≈104and 103in gate voltage sweep ranges of ±10 and ±5 V, respectively, with long retention time of more than 105s and good stress endurance of more than 5 × 104programming/erasing cycles. The conductance of the device can be precisely tuned by applying short potentiative and depressive ±5 V voltage pulses. The device yields are 100% and 93% under ±10 and ±5 V, respectively. The whole fabrication process is free from the transfer process and compatible with traditional silicon technology. This work paves the way for the application of TMDCs in large‐scale integrated circuits.
Uncontrolled blood pressure among the established hypertensive elderly people in Jashore, Bangladesh: A cross‐sectional type of observational study
Authors: Acherjya Goutam Kumar , Mohammad Ali , Keya Tarafder , Islam Mohammad Touhidul , Reza Md. Selim , Ahmed Md. Shakur , Md. Zahirul Huq , Debashis Biswas , Sheikh Shamsuzzaman , Nur Alam
Published: August 2024

Objectives

Hypertension is one of the major modifiable risk factors for cardiovascular mortality and morbidity throughout the world. Increased life expectancy leads to increase prevalence of non‐communicable diseases among the elderly people including Bangladesh. However, different studies reported high prevalence of uncontrolled hypertension ranging from 52.6% to 67.9% among the elderly people in different countries. With this view, we aimed to assess the frequency of uncontrolled blood pressure (BP) among the elderly hypertensive people and its associated risk factors and treatment pattern in Bangladesh.

Methodology

This cross‐sectional type of observational study recruited 246 eligible hypertensive elderly patients attending in 250 Bedded General Hospital, Jashore, Bangladesh dated from 1st July to 31st December 2022. A structured questionnaire was developed and data on associated risk factors, treatment pattern and current blood pressure (BP) measurement were collected by face‐to‐face interview for the purposive sampling technique.

Results

The mean age of our study patients was 72 ± 7 years with a male and female ratio nearly 1:1. Of the total hypertensive patients aged over 65 years or more, 56.5% remained with uncontrolled hypertension even on their prescribed antihypertensive medications. The mean systolic (SBP) and diastolic (DBP) blood pressure were significantly high (P < 0.001) as 167 ± 22 mm Hg and 95 ± 11 mm Hg, respectively, among the uncontrolled hypertensive patients. However, we noticed the mean SBP and DBP among the total hypertensive patients were also significantly high (P < 0.001) as 148 ± 27 mm Hg and 87 ± 13 mm Hg, respectively. In this study, we reported that the mean number of last prescribed antihypertensive medications used by the total patients was 2 ± 1 (P =0.224) which was similar among the controlled and uncontrolled hypertensive patient groups. Among the elderly hypertensive patients, the most commonly prescribed antihypertensive medications were Amlodipine 39.8% (P =0.006), Olmesartan 29.3% (P = 0.186), Losartan 24.4% (P = 0.127), Bisoprolol 15.0% (P = 0.266) and Atenolol 14.6% (P = 0.224).

Conclusion

We noticed high frequency of uncontrolled blood pressure among the elderly hypertensive patients, despite of using multiple antihypertensive medications in Jashore, Bangladesh.
Blood‐derived microRNAs are related to cognitive domains in the general population
Authors: Melas Konstantinos , Talevi Valentina , Imtiaz Mohammed Aslam , Etteldorf Rika , Estrada Santiago , Krüger Dennis M. , Pena‐Centeno Tonatiuh , Aziz N. Ahmad , Fischer André , Breteler Monique M. B.
Published: August 2024

INTRODUCTION

Blood‐derived microRNAs (miRNAs) are potential candidates for detecting and preventing subclinical cognitive dysfunction. However, replication of previous findings and identification of novel miRNAs associated with cognitive domains, including their relation to brain structure and the pathways they regulate, are still lacking.

METHODS

We examined blood‐derived miRNAs and miRNA co‐expression clusters in relation to cognitive domains, structural magnetic resonance imaging measures, target gene expression, and genetic variants in 2869 participants of a population‐based cohort.

RESULTS

Five previously identified and 14 novel miRNAs were associated with cognitive domains. Eleven of these were also associated with cortical thickness and two with hippocampal volume. Multi‐omics analysis showed that certain identified miRNAs were genetically influenced and regulated genes in pathways like neurogenesis and synapse assembly.

DISCUSSION

We identified miRNAs associated with cognitive domains, brain regions, and neuronal processes affected by aging and neurodegeneration, making them promising candidate blood‐based biomarkers or therapeutic targets of subclinical cognitive dysfunction.

Highlights

We investigated the association of blood‐derived microRNAs with cognitive domains.

Five previously identified and 14 novel microRNAs were associated with cognition.

Eleven cognition‐related microRNAs were also associated with cortical thickness.

Identified microRNAs were linked to genes associated with neuronal functions.

Results provide putative biomarkers or therapeutic targets of cognitive aging.
Simultaneous removal of acidic dyes on binary mixture from aqueous solutions by magnetic basic resin
Authors: Karanfil Devlet Yeter , Coşkun Ramazan , Delibaş Ali
Published: August 2024

This study, magnetic basic resin (MBR) was synthesized by radical polymerization and modification. Its functional groups, surface morphology, elemental composition, and magnetic value were determined by ATR‐FTIR FE‐ESEM, EDX, and VSM techniques. Subsequently, the usability of MBR as an adsorbent in the simultaneous adsorption of Tartrazine (Tart) and Reactive Blue‐4 (RB4) dye binary mixtures were examined. Maximum adsorption for both dyes, (170 mg/g for Tart and 184 mg/g for RB4), was observed under acidic conditions at a pH range of 1.5–2. It was determined that the adsorption of both dyes onto MBR occurred in a monolayer, and the saturation time was 90 min for Tart and 60 min for RB4. The adsorption of both dyes fitted the pseudo‐second‐order kinetic model. It was also concluded that intra‐particle diffusion was effective. Based on the thermodynamic parameters, it was concluded that the adsorption proceeded spontaneously and endothermically, additionally, the calculated E values led to the conclusion that electrostatic interactions dominated the adsorption of Tart and RB4. The MBR exhibited a notable affinity for Tart and RB4, even within a dense matrix containing both anions and cations. Furthermore, it maintained this high removal affinity across four consecutive uses, involving adsorption and desorption processes.
Xanthine Oxidase Inhibition by Monoterpene‐Chalcone Conjugates from Kaempferia subglobosa and Molecular Docking Insights
Authors: Boonsombat Jutatip , Jongsomjainuk Orawan , Thongnest Sanit , Sirirak Jitnapa , Batsomboon Paratchata , Ruchisansakun Saroj , Prachya Surasak , Mahidol Chulabhorn , Ruchirawat Somsak
Published: August 2024

Kaempferia subglobosa is a perennial medicinal plant in the Zingiberaceae family, identified as a new species in January 2024. To uncover the biological benefits of K. subglobosa and its compounds, investigation of the metabolites of the roots and rhizomes, yielded three new monoterpene‐chalcone conjugates, the globosones A–C, representing a rare metabolite group within the Zingiberaceae, along with six known compounds. The biogenetic pathway for the globosones involves an oxidative [3+2] cycloaddition between α‐phellandrene and 4’‐methoxy‐4,2’,6’‐trihydroxychalcone. Biological testing revealed potent xanthine oxidase (XO) inhibition by globosones A and B, with IC50 values of 7.0±1.0 and 3.0±0.2 μM, respectively, surpassing the positive control drug allopurinol (IC50 7.2±0.1 μM). Globosones A–C also showed good aromatase inhibition (IC50 3.0–3.5 μM). Molecular docking studies indicated that globosones A and B may inhibit xanthine oxidase through binding at the FAD domain site. The physicochemical properties of these isolates suggest that they possess characteristics suitable for additional biological assessment in more advanced test systems. This study enhances an understanding of monoterpene‐chalcone conjugate inhibitors of XO, and offers preliminary insights into the metabolites and bioactivities of K. subglobosa, uncovering potent biological activities associated with this newly discovered plant species.
A tune sliding control algorithm for angle following of electric motor steer‐by‐wire system
Authors: He Lin , Xu Ziang , Wei Yujiang , Wang Mingwei , Huang Chunrong , Shi Qin
Published: August 2024

The sliding mode control has to design a sliding manifold for manipulating the system motion in engineering practice, making system asymptotic stability paramount. This is particularly challenging for using variable sliding manifold parameters to formulate the sliding manifold for fast convergence and precise control. While much of the research on sliding mode control has focused on constant sliding manifold parameters, comparatively little is known about the variable approach of the sliding manifold parameters. Therefore, sliding manifold parameters are treated as variables and are computed by a parameter tuning algorithm. Regarding the parameter tuning algorithm, its input is the sliding mode control law with variable sliding manifold parameters, and its output is the computed sliding manifold parameters that will be transmitted back to the sliding mode control law. Through tuning the sliding manifold parameters by an optimal method of lowest cost with the measuring value and model computing value of system states based on the historical information, the difference between the nominal model and the real system will be removed. Here we discuss a series of studies on the algorithm of tune sliding control that, collectively, develop an application of how the tune sliding controller steers the front wheels of the full self‐driving vehicle. The designed approach has been tested in a steering test vehicle to realize a good angle tracking performance of the electric motor steer‐by‐wire system.
Adaptive optimal control strategy of fuel economy for fuel cell battery storage system using in HEV applications
Authors: Fu Jiangtao , Fu Yulin , Fu Zhumu , Song Shuzhong
Published: August 2024

Fuel cell stack (FCS) is a practical power source for new energy vehicle applications, and fuel economy is a problem that many researchers are concerned about. In this paper, an adaptive real‐time control strategy aiming at improving fuel efficiency is proposed; the control purpose is to distribute the power requirement between the FCS and the battery to achieve good fuel economy. First, the FCS model is built according to experiment data, and in order to reflect the affection of the temperature to the proposed control strategy, the thermal model of the battery is established. Then the future power requirement is predicted via Bayes inference analysis. Based on the FCS model, the battery model, and the predicted power requirement, the real‐time control strategy is designed and solved with minimization principle optimization over the receding horizon. The proposed control strategy is validated both through simulation and hardware‐in‐loop (Hil) experiments on a 40 kW FCS. The results compared with the rule‐based (RB) strategy and the loss minimum strategy (LMS) show that the proposed control strategy can effectively reduce fuel consumption by 4%, and at the same time, it can help extend the life span of the battery by considering the temperature affection.
Berechnungsmodell zur thermischen Vorspannung nachträglich ergänzter Bewehrung
Authors: Schwarz Yannik , Sanio David , Mark Peter
Published: August 2024

Zentrale technische Einschränkung vieler Verstärkungsmaßnahmen ist, dass diese nicht für das Konstruktionseigengewicht wirksam sind. Zur Lösung wird für statisch bestimmte Tragwerke die gezielte Temperierung von in Schlitzen ergänzten Bewehrungsstäben vorgeschlagen. Ziel ist es, die Stäbe, die in ein Vergussmaterial eingebettet sind, thermisch vorzudehnen und somit an die Dehnung der Initialbewehrung anzugleichen. Die Verbundwirkung mit dem erhärteten Vergussmaterial verhindert nach dem Stoppen der Wärmezufuhr und dem damit verbundenen Abkühlen die Rückverformung der Stäbe. Dadurch entsteht eine Vorspannkraft, die dem Biegemoment aus dem Eigengewicht entgegenwirkt und die Zugzone des Bestandsquerschnitts entlastet. Im Beitrag wird ein analytisches Berechnungsmodell für das Verstärkungsverfahren vorgestellt und hergeleitet. Dieses wird anhand numerischer Berechnungen und in einer ersten experimentellen Umsetzung verifiziert. Die wesentlichen Einflussgrößen auf die Wirksamkeit der Verstärkung werden im Rahmen von Parameterstudien untersucht. Die Ergebnisse zeigen, dass die thermische Vorspannung von nachträglich ergänzten Bewehrungsstäben effektiv möglich ist und mit dem Berechnungsmodell die daraus resultierende Wirkung, je nach untersuchten Randbedingungen, mit einer Genauigkeit von 80 bis 97 % erfasst werden kann. Die Genauigkeit steigt mit zunehmender Querschnittshöhe, einer geringeren Ausgangstemperatur des Querschnitts sowie einer geringeren Wärmeleitfähigkeit des Betons im Initialquerschnitt.
From digital model to digital twin in tunnel construction
Authors: Salzgeber Hannah , Ernst Melanie , Schneiderbauer Larissa , Flora Matthias
Published: August 2024

This article takes a further step on the digitalization path in tunneling by implementing the concept of the digital twin and examining its potential at the three levels of real‐world integration: digital model, digital shadow, and digital twin (DT). It evaluates the current implementation of tunnel information modeling and its adoption in the infrastructure sector. The importance of structured and real‐time data synchronization through technologies such as IoT and Big Data is emphasized. It explores advancements from tunnel model to shadow to DT, emphasizing the importance of structured and data real‐time synchronization through technologies like IoT and Big Data. A comprehensive literature review highlights both technical and non‐technical barriers to the implementation of DT. Continuous improvement of DT, supported by advancements in data acquisition and analytical methods, is expected to significantly enhance tunnel construction. As a main focus, this article provides a framework for a centralized and comprehensive platform for all levels of tunnel twin development, leveraging Autodesk Platform Services. It concludes with a vision for the future, discusses emerging technologies advocating for a strategic approach to digital transformation in tunneling that leverages technological innovations for sustainable development and societal benefits.
A novel design for conversion and storage of solar thermal energy into electrical energy using a solar thermoelectric device‐coupled supercapacitor
Authors: Ma Pengjun , Wang Yan , Zhang Xu , Lang Junwei , Yang Juan , Yu Tongtong , Chai Liqiang , Yang Bingjun , Deng Yanan , Fan Xianfeng , Bae Joonho
Published: August 2024

The conversion of solar‐thermal (ST) power into electrical power along with its efficient storage represents a crucial and effective approach to address the energy crisis. The thermoelectric (TE) generator can absorb ST power and transform it into electrical energy, making it a highly viable technology to achieve photo‐thermal conversion (PTC). However, the practical application of the pristine TE generator devices on a larger scale is still facing several challenges. On the one hand, the pristine TE generator device has low inherent PTC efficiency, thereby leading to low power conversion. On the other hand, such solar‐thermoelectric (STE) conversion does not provide the functionality of electric energy storage. Herein, an effective strategy has been proposed that employs a CoAl2O4 PTC coating to decorate the pristine TE generator for developing the STE generator device with the remarkable STE performance and then coupling this device with a supercapacitor (SC) for effective storage power. In comparison to the pristine TE generator, the developed STE device exhibited considerable enhancement in both the open‐circuit voltage (Voc) and its maximum power density, displaying more than a 4‐ and 15‐fold improvement, respectively. In addition, the feasibility of coupling this solar‐driven STE generator device in series with a SC for ST conversion and storage was verified, and the working mechanism has been elucidated. This work presents a promising approach to effectively convert and store clean solar power into electrical energy, enabling practical applications of STE generator devices in conjunction with other electrochemical energy storage devices.
Recent Advances in Artificial Anion Channels and Their Selectivity
Authors: Ren Bowen , Sun Yonghui , Xin Pengyang
Published: August 2024

Nature performs critical physiological functions using a series of structurally and functionally diverse membrane proteins embedded in cell membranes, in which native ion protein channels modify the electrical potential inside and outside the cell membrane through charged ion movements. Consequently, the cell responds to external stimuli, playing an essential role in various life activities, such as nerve excitation conduction, neurotransmitter release, muscle movement, and control of cell differentiation. Supramolecular artificial channels, which mimic native protein channels in structure and function, adopt unimolecular or self‐assembled structures, such as crown ethers, cyclodextrins, cucurbiturils, column arenes, cyclic peptide nanotubes, and metal‐organic artificial channels, in channel construction strategies. Owing to the various driving forces involved, artificial synthetic ion channels can be divided into artificial cation and anion channels in terms of ion selectivity. Cation selectivity usually originates from ion coordination, whereas anion selectivity is related to hydrogen bonding, ion pairing, and anion‐dipole interactions. Several studies have been conducted on artificial cation channels, and several reviews have summarized them in detail; however, the research on anions is still in the initial stages, and related reviews have rarely been reported. Hence, this article primarily focuses on the recent research on anion channels.
Recommended Practices for the Electrochemical Recovery of Cobalt from Lithium Cobalt Oxide: A Case Study of the Choline Chloride:Ethylene Glycol Deep Eutectic Solvent
Authors: Shahid Mohamed , Sahadevan Suchithra Ashoka , Ramani Vijay , Sankarasubramanian Shrihari
Published: August 2024

We recommend best practices for the recovery of cobalt from LiCoO2 (LCO) lithium‐ion battery (LIB) cathodes by (i) leaching using green deep eutectic solvents (DES) and (ii) subsequent electrodeposition, through a case study of the choline chloride (ChCl):ethylene glycol (EG) DES. DES physical properties (conductivity, viscosity, and surface tension) were tailored by varying the composition between mole ratios of 1 : 2 and 1 : 5 (ChCl:EG). Examined along with leaching process parameters (temperature, duration), increasing the fraction of hydrogen bond donors (HBDs) decreased DES surface tension and enhanced leaching. Complete Co recovery was achieved using 1 : 5 ChCl:EG DES at 160 °C and 48 h. Leaching temperatures >160 °C are discouraged due to DES thermal degradation. The electrodeposition process was optimized for selective Co recovery with high faradaic efficiency. The leaching ability of the DES was antithetical to the stability of electrodeposition cell components and required operational parameter adjustment to minimize degradation. The optimized system (copper cathode and stainless‐steel anode) employing 1 : 5 DES leachate exhibited a faradaic efficiency of ~80 %, specific Co recovery of ~0.8 mg hr<M−1 cm−1 at 50 °C and evidence of uniform deposition. DES surface tension is a key descriptor of metal recovery, and guidelines are presented to maximize selective Co recovery.
Synthesis of 2‐Amino Benzazoles Through Elemental Selenium‐Promoted Cyclization of Ortho‐Substituted Anilines and Isocyanides
Authors: Ding Hongyu , Ma Chao , Shi Siyu , Cui Wenxiu , Lv Yufen , You Jinmao , Wei Wei , Yi Dong
Published: August 2024

A facile and transition metal‐free method has been developed for the synthesis of 2‐amino benzazoles through elemental selenium promoted cyclization reaction of ortho‐substituted anilines with isocyanides under mild conditions. Through this strategy, a series of 2‐amino benzooxa/(thia)zoles and benzimidazoles could be efficiently obtained in good to excellent yields with favorable functional group tolerance.