bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of a comprehensive medication management program on ambulatory care patients with noncommunicable diseases in a Latin American hospital: A retrospective study
Authors: Sancho‐Vargas Natalia , Zavaleta‐Monestel Esteban , Arguedas‐Chacón Sebastián
Published: January 2023

Background

Noncommunicable diseases are the leading causes of death and disability in the world, harming life conditions and increasing expenditures within the health care system. Comprehensive Medication Management (CMM) may improve patient safety, adherence, and clinical outcomes by preventing or intervening in drug‐related problems (DRPs).

Methods

Retrospective, cross‐sectional study conducted between October 2017 and July 2022 in a CMM of a hospital in Costa Rica. Patients 3–106 years old diagnosed with at least one chronic disease and had risk factors for DRP were included. A clinical pharmacist (CP) identified DRPs and proposed interventions to resolve them. DRPs were classified into four categories: indication, effectiveness, safety, and adherence. Additionally, the severity of the problem was determined by using a scale of potential clinical consequences avoided related to DRPs and medication errors (MEs). The adherence rate was determined by applying validated questionnaires and traceability control of dispensing medication dates. Clinical outcomes were classified as resolved, improved, stable, worsened, and therapeutic failure according to the condition of the DRP until the last appointment by the patient.

Results

Pharmacotherapy interventions had an overall acceptance rate of 98.3%. Interventions made by the CP were related to effectiveness (38.9%, n = 253), safety (29.6%, n = 193), adherence (20.90%, n = 136), and therapy indications (10.60%, n = 69). The patient adherence rate improved, with a mean value of 74% on the first appointment compared with 88% as the last value calculated after the pharmacist's interventions. Predominant determinants of medication nonadherence were therapy‐related factors (30.88%) and patient‐related factors (30.15%). In the clinical status assessment of 651 DRPs, 490 (75.3%) resolved, 105 (16.1%) improved, 43 (6.6%) remained stable, 5 (0.8%) worsened, and 8 (1.2%) patients presented with therapeutic failure.

Conclusions

CPs can help resolve DRPs/MEs which enable patients to achieve medication‐related therapeutic goals. The clinical interventions made were characterized according to the outcomes of each patient to obtain the optimal management of a patient's medications.
An efficient and green synthesis of multi‐heteroatom heterocycles via a three components reaction in acetic acid/aqueous condition
Authors: Yang Shuang , Peng Yani , Wu Minyang , Yang Jing , Chen Xingyue , Rong Liangce
Published: January 2023

In this research, the multi‐heteroatom heterocycles were effectively obtained via three components reactions from isatins, 3‐aminopyrazol‐5(4H)‐one, and the different heterocyclic ketones (kojic acid, ethyl 4‐oxopiperidine‐1‐carboxylate, and tetrahydro‐4H‐thiopyran‐4‐one) under acetic acid/aqueous condition for the first time. The advantages of the approach were easy to handle, excellent yields, a wide range of substrates and environmental friendliness. This study provided an alternative synthesis pathway for obtaining multi‐heteroatom heterocycle compounds.
Spatiotemporal analysis of consecutive extreme wet days in China from 1980 to 2020
Authors: Zong Xuezheng , Yin Yunhe , Cui Tong , Hou Wenjuan , Deng Haoyu
Published: January 2023

Consecutive extreme wet days (CEWDs) typically affect the likelihood of flooding and landslides and have negative effects on both natural and artificial ecosystems; however, the spatiotemporal changes in their features are still unclear at the national scale. Investigating changes in the frequency and intensity of such events is essential for climate risk management. Here, this study thoroughly analysed CEWD features in China from 1980 to 2020 using the daily observation dataset. We also evaluated and compared the ability of two widely used precipitation products, the European Centre for Medium‐Range Weather Forecasts Reanalysis 5th Generation (ERA5) and the Multi‐Source Weighted‐Ensemble Precipitation version 2 (MSWEP), to detect CEWD features. According to the observation data, the frequency and intensity of CEWD events are related to local climate and present “high eastern and low western” spatial patterns across China. Since 1980, more than half of China's mainland has experienced increases in both the frequency and intensity of CEWDs. Some stations detected decreasing trends in CEWD frequency and amounts, which are primarily located in the eastern coastal regions and southwest of warm temperate humid/subhumid regions. The ERA5 precipitation product generally outperforms MSWEP data in detecting CEWD events, and the latter significantly underestimates the annual frequency and amounts of CEWDs. These findings provide basic and valuable information regarding CEWD features across China and where such studies can be conducted based on precipitation datasets. Furthermore, these findings will also aid policymakers in managing extreme precipitation‐related natural hazards.
Solidification of concentrated pea protein–pectin mixtures as potential binder
Authors: Moll Pascal , Salminen Hanna , Stadtmüller Lucie , Schmitt Christophe , Weiss Jochen
Published: January 2023

BACKGROUND

Binders in plant‐based meat analogues allow different components, such as extrudate and fat particles, to stick together. Typically, binders then are solidified to transform the mass into a non‐sticky, solid product. As an option for a clean‐label binder possessing such properties, the solidification behavior of pea protein–pectin mixtures (250 g kg−1, r = 2:1, pH 6) was investigated upon heating, and upon addition of calcium, transglutaminase, and laccase, or by combinations thereof.

RESULTS

Mixtures of (homogenized) pea protein and apple pectin had higher elastic moduli and consistency coefficients and lower frequency dependencies upon calcium addition. This indicated that calcium physically cross‐linked pectin chains that formed the continuous phase in the biopolymer matrix. The highest degree of solidification was obtained with a mixture of pea protein and sugar beet pectin upon addition of laccase that covalently cross‐linked both biopolymers involved. All solidified mixtures lost their stickiness. A mixture of soluble pea protein and apple pectin solidified only slightly through calcium and transglutaminase, probably due to differences in the microstructural arrangement of the biopolymers.

CONCLUSION

The chemical makeup of the biopolymers and their spatial distribution determines solidification behavior in concentrated biopolymer mixtures. In general, pea protein–pectin mixtures can solidify and therefore have the potential to act as binders in meat analogues. © 2023 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Comparison of Sonographic Characteristics Between Superficial Basal Cell Carcinoma and Non‐Superficial Basal Cell Carcinomas
Authors: Liang Jian‐Feng , Luo Ping‐Ping , Zhang Yan , Zhao Gang , Zhou Mei , Wang Jing
Published: January 2023

Objectives

To compare the sonographic characteristics of superficial basal cell carcinoma (sBCC) and non‐superficial basal cell carcinomas (nsBCC).

Methods

The ultrasound characteristics of 73 basal cell carcinoma (BCC) confirmed by surgical pathology were retrospectively analyzed, and the cases were divided into 11 cases of sBCC and 62 cases of nsBCC according to pathological subtypes. Ultrasound characteristics between groups were compared.

Results

Among all the ultrasound characteristics, lesion thickness (P = .000), shape (χ2 = 39.293, P = .000), basal changes (χ2 = 8.473, P = .037), infiltration level (χ2 = 46.140, P = .000), and distribution of intralesional hyperechogenic spots (χ2 = 15.699, P = .000) of the lesions had statistically significant correlation with pathological diagnosis of sBCC. While no significant differences were shown in surface morphology, keratinization, maximum diameter, intralesional echogenicity, posterior echogenic changes, and intralesional color Doppler flow of the lesions.

Conclusions

Small lesion thickness, oblate shape, superficial dermal local infiltration, and <3 internal hyperechogenic spots distribution of BCC determined by high frequency ultrasound may positively correlate with pathological diagnosis of sBCC. This is beneficial for treatment planning.
Assessment of Laryngeal Sensory Function using a Tactile Aesthesiometer in Healthy Adults
Authors: Ma Yue , Kidane Joseph , Gochman Grant E. , Bracken David J. , Strohl Madeleine P. , Rosen Clark A. , Young VyVy N.
Published: January 2023

Introduction

Laryngeal sensory function in healthy adults was assessed through the delivery of tactile stimuli using Cheung–Bearelly monofilaments.

Methods

37 healthy adults were recruited with 340 tactile stimuli analyzed. Four calibrated tactile stimuli were delivered to three laryngeal sites: false vocal fold (FVF), aryepiglottic fold (AEF), and lateral pyriform sinus (LPS). Primary outcome was the elicitation of laryngeal adductor reflex (LAR). Secondary outcomes were gag, patient‐reported laryngeal sensation (PRLS), and perceptual strength. Analysis was performed with mixed effects logistic regression modeling.

Results

Positive LAR was observed in 35.7%, 70.2%, and 91.2% of stimuli at LPS, AEF, and FVF respectively. LAR rates were significantly associated with laryngopharyngeal subsite (p < 0.001), tactile force (p = 0.001), age (p = 0.022) and sex (p = 0.022). LAR, gag, PRLS, and perceptual strength significantly increased as a more medial laryngeal subsite was stimulated and as stimulus force increased. Each of the ten years of age increase was associated with 19% reduction in odds of LAR (aOR = 0.81, 95% CI [0.68, 0.97]; p = 0.022). Male gender was associated with a 55% reduction in odds of LAR (aOR = 0.45, 95% CI [0.23, 0.89]; p = 0.022).

Conclusion

LAR elicitation capability decreases in the male gender, aging, and a more lateral subsite. This study provides insight into the pathophysiology of hypo‐ and hyper‐sensitive laryngeal disorders and is paramount to making accurate diagnostic assessments and finding novel treatment options for various laryngological disorders. Laryngoscope, 133:2525–2532, 2023
A study on the lubrication effects of nano‐TiO2 additive water‐based lubricants during rolling of ferritic stainless steel strips
Authors: Sun Xiaoyu , Ma Xiaoguang , Ma Linan , Zhou Cunlong , Li Jinghui , Zhang Mingya , Zhao Jingwei
Published: January 2023

In the present work, a comparison between traditional oil‐in‐water (O/W) based lubricant and nano‐TiO2 additive water‐based lubricants was made to explore the lubrication effects during rolling of ferritic stainless steel (FSS) strips. The results show that marked reduction in rolling force and improvement in the surface quality can be achieved by utilisation of water‐based nanolubricant, which can be attributed to the synergism of rolling effect, mending effect, polishing effect and protection film. An optimal concentration of 3.0 wt% TiO2 nanoparticles is found to exhibit excellent lubrication effects with sufficient nanoparticles at real contact regions without aggregation, leading to 10% reduction in the surface roughness during rolling of FSS strips.
Development and CT image‐domain validation of a computational lung lesion model for use in virtual imaging trials
Authors: Sauer Thomas J. , Bejan Adrian , Segars Paul , Samei Ehsan
Published: January 2023

Purpose

Computational abnormalities (e.g., lesion models) for use in medical imaging simulation studies are frequently generated using data collected from clinical images. Although this approach allows for highly‐customizable lesion detectability studies on clinical computed tomography (CT) data, the ground‐truth lesion models produced with this method do not provide a sufficiently realistic lesion morphology for use with current anthropomorphic simulation studies. This work is intended to demonstrate that the new anatomically‐informed lesion model presented here is not inferior to the previous lesion model under CT imaging, and can therefore provide a more biologically‐informed model for use with simulated CT imaging studies.

Methods

The lesion model was simulated initially from a seed cell with 10 μm diameter placed in an anatomical location within segmented lung CT and was allowed to reproduce locally within the available solid angle in discrete time‐intervals (corresponding to synchronous cell cycles) up to a size of ∼200 μm in diameter. Daughter cells of generation G were allowed also to reproduce on the next available time‐step given sufficient space. At lesion sizes beyond 200 μm in diameter, the health of subregions of cells were tracked with a Markov chain technique, indicating which regions were likely to continue growing, which were likely stable, and which were likely to develop necrosis given their proximity to anatomical features and other lesion cells. For lesion sizes beyond 500 μm, the lesion was represented with three nested, triangulated surfaces (corresponding to proliferating, dormant, and necrotic regions), indicating how discrete volumes of the lesion were behaving at a particular time. Lesions were then assigned smoothly‐varying material properties based on their cellular level health in each region, resulting in a multi‐material lesion model. The lesions produced with this model were then voxelized and placed into lung CT images for comparison with both prior work and clinical data. This model was subject to an observer study in which cardiothoracic imaging radiologists assessed the realism of both clinical and synthetic lesions in CT images.

Results

The useable outputs of this work were voxel‐ or surface‐based, validated, computational lesions, at a scale clearly visible on clinical CT (3–4 cm). Analysis of the observer study results indicated that the computationally‐generated lesions were indistinguishable from clinical lesions (AUC = 0.49, 95% CI = [0.36, 0.61]) and non‐inferior to an earlier image‐based lesion model—indicating the advantage of the model for use in both hybrid CT images and in simulated CT imaging of the lungs.

Conclusions

Results indicated the non‐inferiority of this model as compared to previous methods, indicating the utility of the model for use in both hybrid CT images and in simulated CT imaging.
One Health challenges for pig reproduction
Authors: Peltoniemi Olli , Tanskanen Topi , Kareskoski Maria
Published: January 2023

The current state of the world challenges pig reproduction as an important part of One Health, which involves interrelationships between animal, human and environmental health. The One Health concept underlines a comparative aspect in reproductive physiology and disease occurrence, bridging knowledge from one species to another. Seasonal changes in the environment affect pig reproduction and climate change may further strengthen those effects. Endocrine‐disrupting chemicals (EDCs), and specifically phthalates and heavy metals, interfere with endocrine function, and thereby sexual behavior, fertilization capacity and steroidogenesis. Reproductive infections and extended semen storage are important indications for antimicrobial use. Innovative solutions are needed to explore alternatives to antimicrobials. Efforts to ensure reproductive efficiency have prolonged farrowing as litter size has doubled over the past three decades, compromising immune transfer and welfare. Physiological, metabolic and programming related events around parturition are key areas for future One Health research in pig reproduction. In conclusion, climate change challenges reproductive management and breeding. More resilient pigs that can tolerate harsh environment but maintain high reproductive performance are needed. EDCs continue to grow as an environmental challenge for reproductive management and alternatives to antibiotics will be required.
Hybrid Phosphine/Amino‐Acid Ligands Built on Phenyl and Ferrocenyl Platforms: Application in the Suzuki Coupling of o‐Dibromobenzene with Fluorophenylboronic Acid
Authors: Radal Léa , Almallah Hamze , Labonde Marine , Roger Julien , Cattey Hélène , Sabbadin Henri , Amardeil Régine , Pirio Nadine , Hierso Jean‐Cyrille
Published: January 2023

We describe the synthesis and characterization of two classes of hybrid phosphino ligands functionalized with amino ester or amino acid groups. These compounds are built either on a rigid planar phenyl platform or on a functionalized – conformationally controlled – rotational ferrocene backbone. Modifications at the −PR2 phosphino groups (R=aryl and alkyl, with various steric bulk, Ph, Mes, i‐Pr, Cy) and at the amino acid/amino ester functions are reported, showing a valuable high modularity. The coordination chemistry of these compounds regarding palladium and gold was investigated, in particular with respect to the coordination mode of the phosphino groups and the preferred interaction with metals for the amino ester and amino acid functions. For all the hybrid ligands, based either on ferrocenyl or phenyl platforms, the (P,N)‐chelating effect dominates in solution for coordination to Pd(II), while linear P−Au(I) complexes without interaction with the amino groups are assumed. The investigation of the catalytic activity of these new ligands in the demanding palladium‐catalyzed Suzuki–Miyaura coupling of o‐dibromoarenes with fluorophenylboronic acid underlined the importance of the amino ester dicyclohexylphosphinoferrocene for avoiding the deleterious homocoupling and arene oligomerization side‐reactions that were otherwise observed with the other phosphine ligands.
Synthesis and characterization of a novel double network hydrogel based on gellan‐gum crosslinked by octavinyl polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane for heavy metal removal
Authors: Pourjalili Navid , Bagheri Marandi Gholam , Kurdtabar Mehran , Rezanejade Bardajee Ghasem
Published: January 2023

In this study, we demonstrated a new design technique for producing DNNH based on gellan‐gum crosslinked by octavinyl polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane. Incorporating OV‐POSS nanoparticles as cross‐linkers into the first and second networks created strong coordination contacts and improved mechanical performance with 90% water. pH and contact time affect DNNH swelling, Ni(II), and Pb(II) removal. The resulting hydrogels were characterized by FT‐IR, SEM, XRD, and TGA analyzes. The capacity of the hydrogel to adsorb Ni(II) and Pb(II) is 213.66 and 132.55 mg/g, respectively, according to the adsorption isotherm model. The usefulness of kinetic and isotherm investigations, notably the pseudo‐second‐order model and the Langmuir model, for the adsorption of the aforementioned contaminants, was proven. Ni(II) and Pb(II) adsorption is spontaneous and endothermic, according to the study. The hydrogel's adsorption–desorption reusability was renewed five times. As a consequence, the generated hydrogel is recognized as a good adsorbent for aqueous Ni(II) and Pb(II) adsorption.
Integrated metabolic and transcriptomic profiles reveal the germination‐associated dynamic changes for the seeds of Cassia obtusifolia L.
Authors: Chen Biying , Shi Biru , Ge Xiaoyan , Fu Zhifei , Yu Haiyang , Zhang Xu , Liu Caixiang , Han Lifeng
Published: January 2023

Introduction

The seeds of Cassia obtusifolia L. (Cassiae [C.] semen) have been widely used as both food and traditional Chinese medicine in China.

Objectives

We aimed to analyze the metabolic mechanisms underlying C. semen germination.

Materials and Methods

Different samples of C. semen at various germination stages were collected. These samples were subjected to 1H‐NMR and UHPLC/Q‐Orbitrap‐MS‐based untargeted metabolomics analysis together with transcriptomics analysis.

Results

A total of 50 differential metabolites (mainly amino acids and sugars) and 20 key genes involved in multiple pathways were identified in two comparisons of different groups (36 h vs 12 h and 84 h vs 36 h). The metabolite–gene network for seed germination was depicted. In the germination of C. semen, fructose and mannose metabolism was activated in the testa rupture period, indicating more energy was needed (36 h). In the embryonic axis elongation period (84 h), the pentose and glucuronate interconversions pathway and the phenylpropanoid biosynthesis pathway were activated, which suggested some nutrient sources (nitrogen and sugar) were in demand. Furthermore, oxygen, energy, and nutrition should be supplied throughout the whole germination process. These global views open up an integrated perspective for understanding the complex biological regulatory mechanisms during the germination process of C. semen.
Holographic recordings without compromise
Authors: Trotzky Stefan , Waasem Niklas
Published: January 2023

Widely tunable continuous‐wave optical parametric oscillator (OPO) systems help meet the demands on holographic optical elements (HOEs) for many use cases, including head‐up displays and augmented reality devices. The wide tuning range allows for direct adjustment of the replay wavelength with little to no need for modification of the holographic recording geometry. HOEs fabricated using these OPO systems in conjunction with advanced photopolymer materials offer precisely controlled replay properties and exceptional diffraction efficiency.
High‐Sensitivity Polarized Light Detector of 2D WS2/Mo2CF2 Van Der Waals Heterostructure
Authors: Hao Jiamao , Wu Jun , Wang Donghua , Wang Chengdeng , Luo Mengqin , Xie Lijuan , Zhu Fang , Yan Xiaoqin , Gu Yousong
Published: January 2023

The photogalvanic effect (PGE) generated under linearly polarized light irradiation has remarkable applications in 2D nanodevices. The PGE of 2D WS2/Mo2CF2 van der Waals (vdW) heterostructure can generate photocurrent and high sensitivity to polarized light. However, the PGE has less photogenerated current. On this basis, the photocurrent transport mechanism of PGE under low bias voltage is investigated. The results show that the photocurrent of the photon energy has , and dependence on the polarization angle θ under the considered external bias voltage. Under a bias voltage of 1.0 V, the maximum photocurrent of 3.7 eV photon energy in the zigzag direction can reach 4.61. Under a bias voltage of 1 V, the maximum photocurrent of 1.8 eV photon energy in the armchair direction can reach 6.71. The maximum photocurrents are in the order of 10−1 for both zigzag and armchair directions with 0 V bias. Furthermore, 2D WS2/Mo2CF2 vdW heterostructure has a stable and high extinction ratio. These results show that 2D WS2/Mo2CF2 vdW heterostructure is a potential candidate material for future optoelectronics in the visible light region.
DC and Pulse I–V Characteristics of Strain‐Engineered AlGaInN/GaN HEMTs fabricated on Single‐Crystal AlN Substrate
Authors: Miyoshi Makoto , Tanaka Sakura , Kawaide Tomoyuki , Inoue Akiyoshi , Egawa Takashi
Published: January 2023

A high‐electron‐mobility transistor (HEMT) structure consisting of a strain‐engineered quaternary AlGaInN barrier layer on an unintentionally doped (UID) GaN channel layer is grown on a single‐crystal (SC) AlN substrate by metal–organic chemical vapor deposition and subjected to the device fabrication and characterization. It is showed in DC static measurement results that the fabricated HEMTs exhibit good current–voltage (I–V) characteristics without large negative resistance even at high‐current operations. Pulse I–V measurements results indicate that the fabricated devices show a low‐drain–current collapse as unpassivated GaN HEMTs and that it is further improved by applying an Al2O3 surface passivation. The present results signify promising prospects of AlGaInN/GaN HEMTs on SC‐AlN toward future high‐power radio‐frequency (RF) applications.
Laser‐Assisted Growth of Fe3O4 Nanoparticle Films on Silicon Substrate in Open Air
Authors: Krajewski Marcin , Kaczmarek Agata , Tokarczyk Mateusz , Lewińska Sabina , Włoczewski Mateusz , Bochenek Kamil , Jarząbek Dariusz M. , Mościcki Tomasz , Hoffman Jacek , Ślawska-Waniewska Anna
Published: January 2023

This work presents a growth of Fe3O4 nanoparticle films on silicon substrate. The iron oxide is deposited applying a pulsed laser deposition technique. The process is performed in open air in the absence and presence of external magnetic field. In fact, the morphologies of the obtained Fe3O4–Si samples are similar. The Fe3O4 nanoparticles are spherical with average diameters of 30 nm and are densely agglomerated on the Si substrate. The Fe3O4–Si material prepared in the absence of magnetic field has revealed more intense signals during X‐ray diffraction and Raman measurements. The magnetic investigations indicate that the Fe3O4 nanoparticles are significantly coupled with the Si substrate and do not exhibit superparamagnetic behavior. Moreover, the Verwey transition is 98 K for both investigated Fe3O4–Si samples.
Antimicrobial Peptide Pt5‐1c Promotes Keratinocyte Migration and Proliferation via EGFR‐mediated Akt/MAPK/STAT3 pathways
Authors: Wu Fei , Song Lili , Gong Yi , Wang Yubing , Li Hongyan , Zhang Shicui
Published: January 2023

Keratinocytes, as the most dominant cell type in the epidermis, play multiple roles in skin wound healing. Recently, we have shown that a short antimicrobial peptide Pt5‐1c can promote skin wound healing via enhancing fibroblast proliferation and migration in vitro, and accelerating re‐epithelialization of murine dermal wounds in vivo.[1] However, its effects on keratinocytes is unknown. Here we clearly showed that Pt5‐1c markedly enhanced keratinocyte migration and proliferation. Moreover, Pt5‐1c stimulated keratinocyte activation by inducing the phosphorylation of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), Akt, extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK), p38, and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) in keratinocytes. Importantly, Pt5‐1c also increased collagen production, stimulated cell proliferation, and enhanced the phosphorylation of Akt, p38 and STAT3 in the wound skin tissues. These together indicate that Pt5‐1c can promote keratinocyte migration and proliferation via activation of EGFR‐mediated Akt, MAPK, and STAT3 pathways, thereby contributing to skin wound healing.
Can we influence the neurological development and hair cortisol concentration of offspring by reducing the stress of the mother during pregnancy? A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Puertas‐Gonzalez Jose A. , Romero‐Gonzalez Borja , Mariño‐Narvaez Carolina , Gonzalez‐Perez Raquel , Sosa‐Sanchez Isis O. , Peralta‐Ramirez Maria Isabel
Published: January 2023

The objective was to evaluate the effects of a stress management cognitive behavioural therapy followed during pregnancy on subsequent childhood on hair cortisol at birth and on neurodevelopment and Hair Cortisol Concentrations (HCC) at 6 months of age. The study sample included 48 pregnant women, divided into two groups: 24 women in the Therapy Group (TG) and 24 women who received standard pregnancy care (control group (CG); CG). To test the therapy efficacy, an evaluation of the HCC and psychological stress, psychopathological symptomatology and resilience was conducted before and after the treatment. The level of cortisol in their hair was obtained during pregnancy and that of their babies at birth. Six months after birth, a cortisol sample was taken from the hair and the babies' neurodevelopment was evaluated based on a Bayley‐III test. The TG presented reductions in psychological stress and psychopathological symptomatology after treatment. On the other hand, the CG increased their cortisol concentrations between the pre and post intervention, remaining stable in the TG. Moreover, results showed that TG babies had lower cortisol concentrations at birth and obtained significantly higher cognitive and motor development scores at 6 months. These findings support that providing psychological care to pregnant women may not only have a benefit on these women's mental state, but may also benefit the neurodevelopment of their offspring.
Navigating windows of opportunity: The role of international experience
Authors: Garrido Elisabet , Giachetti Claudio , Maicas Juan P.
Published: January 2023

Research Summary

Scholars have noted that pronounced changes in consumer demand and technology often offer firms temporary opportunities to strengthen their performance vis‐à‐vis rivals. This article contributes to the literature on windows of opportunity from an organizational learning perspective. It investigates whether the depth and breadth of a firm's international experience with pronounced changes in demand conditions (demand windows) and technologies (technological windows) affect its ability to take advantage of such changes within a country to increase its market share. The results, based on a sample of 615 telecommunication companies competing in 124 countries, suggest that mainly two out of four dimensions of international experience help firms to exploit windows of opportunity in a country.

Managerial Summary

What can help multinational companies (MNCs) to navigate periods of marked changes in demand and technology? When an MNC encounters a marked change in demand or technology in a country, it may have already experienced in the past many or just a few of these events, depending on its international footprint, and this serves to assess the MNC's international experience with such changes. Using data on telecommunication companies, we show that both (a) an MNC's repeated exposure to a certain type of change over time (depth of international experience) and (b) the variety of changes an MNC has been exposed to (breadth of international experience) in international markets may help the MNC to obtain market share advantages when such changes occur in a country.
Covalent Pyrimidine Frameworks via a Tandem Polycondensation Method for Photocatalytic Hydrogen Production and Proton Conduction
Authors: Zhong Yifei , Li Chao , Yang Fan , Guan Lijiang , Jin Shangbin
Published: January 2023

The development of heteroaromatic conjugated porous polymers (H‐CPPs) have received enormous research interests, because of the important functional roles of the heteroatoms in photocatalysis and proton conduction. However, due to the synthetic challenges deriving from the stable structures, the structural diversity and synthetic methods of them are still limited. Herein, a new type of H‐CPPs, covalent pyrimidine frameworks (CPFs), via an efficient tandem polycondensation reaction between aldehyde, acetyl, and amidine monomers is reported. The resulting CPFs are bridged by pyrimidine units, rich of nitrogen atoms and can be structurally regulated on demand. The CPFs are shown to be active photocatalysts for hydrogen evolution from methanol via a photo‐thermo‐catalysis process, achieving an excellent hydrogen evolution rate of 5282.8 µmol h−1 g−1. The CPFs can be further processed into a mixed matrix membrane, displaying an excellent proton conductivity of 1.30 × 10−2 S cm−1 at 413 K under anhydrous condition.
High Throughput Confined Migration Microfluidic Device for Drug Screening
Authors: Yang Zihan , Zhou Zhihang , Si Tongxu , Zhou Zhengdong , Zhou Li , Chin Y. Rebecca , Zhang Liang , Guan Xinyuan , Yang Mengsu
Published: January 2023

Cancer metastasis is the major cause of cancer‐related death. Excessive extracellular matrix deposition and increased stiffness are typical features of solid tumors, creating confined spaces for tumor cell migration and metastasis. Confined migration is involved in all metastasis steps. However, confined and unconfined migration inhibitors are different and drugs available to inhibit confined migration are rare. The main challenges are the modeling of confined migration, the suffering of low throughput, and others. Microfluidic device has the advantage to reduce reagent consumption and enhance throughput. Here, a microfluidic chip that can achieve multi‐function drug screening against the collective migration of cancer cells under confined environment is designed. This device is applied to screen out effective drugs on confined migration among a novel mechanoreceptors compound library (166 compounds) in hepatocellular carcinoma, non‐small lung cancer, breast cancer, and pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma cells. Three compounds that can significantly inhibit confined migration in pan‐cancer: mitochonic acid 5 (MA‐5), SB‐705498, and diphenyleneiodonium chloride are found. Finally, it is elucidated that these drugs targeted mitochondria, actin polymerization, and cell viability, respectively. In sum, a high‐throughput microfluidic platform for screening drugs targeting confined migration is established and three novel inhibitors of confined migration in multiple cancer types are identified.
Solvent Role of Ionic Liquids in Fundamental Chemical Reaction Dynamics Analyzed by Time‐Resolved Spectroscopy
Authors: Fujii Kaori , Kimura Yoshifumi
Published: January 2023

Ionic liquids (ILs), which are used as solvents for chemical reactions, are different from conventional organic solvents owing to their designability. Physicochemical parameters of the ILs, such as polarity and viscosity, that affect chemical equilibria and reaction kinetics can be tuned by changing the combination of anions and cations or by varying the lengths of the alkyl chains present in the cations. We were interested in knowing how these physicochemical parameters affect fundamental chemical reactions in ILs. Therefore, in this personal account, we investigate our recent work on two different photochemical reactions in ILs, namely excited‐state intramolecular proton transfer of hydroxyflavone and photodissociation of aminodisulfide, using time‐resolved spectroscopic techniques. Interestingly, the roles of the ILs in these chemical reactions are quite different. The effect of the cationic species of the ILs (i. e., the head groups and number of alkyl carbons) on the solvation environment upon photoexcitation and reaction rate are discussed.
Ataxia and muscle weakness after thiopental anaesthesia in a horse being treated with fluconazole
Authors: Aguilar‐Catalan Adrià , Costa‐Farré Cristina , Leiva Marta , Murison Pamela J.
Published: January 2023

An 8‐year‐old, male, neutered Argentinian polo pony underwent two ocular surgeries due to a fungal abscess. The horse was on treatment with fluconazole before and during the time when the two anaesthetic procedures took place. The only difference between anaesthetic events was the induction agent. During the first anaesthetic procedure, ketamine was used. However, during the second anaesthetic procedure, due to ocular fragility sodium thiopental was preferred to avoid increase in intraocular pressure. The first anaesthetic duration was 130 minutes, and standing was achieved after 20 minutes of isoflurane discontinuation, with no complications. The second anaesthetic procedure lasted for 60 minutes, but standing was not achieved until 70 minutes after isoflurane discontinuation. The horse was ataxic with muscle weakness for 6 hours after standing. However, the horse recovered successfully and was discharged 2 months after the first surgical procedure.
Nitrate contamination of urban groundwater and heavy rainfall: Observations from Dakar, Senegal
Authors: Pouye Abdoulaye , Cissé Faye Seynabou , Diédhiou Mathias , Gaye Cheikh Becaye , Taylor Richard G.
Published: January 2023

In low‐income urban areas of major cities in Africa, sanitation provision derives primarily from onsite systems often comprising septic tanks and pit latrines. Such systems rely upon the ability of the surrounding soil and substratum to attenuate contaminants like nitrate and pathogenic microorganisms in wastewater. Here, we assess soil–water and solute dynamics in Quaternary aeolian sands underlying a densely populated suburb (Keur Massar) of Dakar (Senegal) using high‐frequency monitoring and vadose zone modeling (Hydrus‐1D). Observations of rainfall intensity, soil moisture content, and shallow groundwater‐level fluctuations and nitrate concentrations were carried out at an experimental site adjacent to a septic tank supplied by toilets used by a primary school. Rapid rises in soil moisture content and episodic recharge contributions observed in groundwater levels caused by heavy (>10 mm h−1) and extreme (>20 mm h−1) rainfall are well modeled (R2 = .79–.83; RMSE = 0.012–0.019) by pore‐matrix flow in the unsaturated zone by the Darcy–Richards equation. Spot sampling around the most intense rainfall of 2020 (45 mm h−1) reveals a fivefold rise and fall in the concentration of nitrate in soil moisture (∼500 to ∼2,500 mg L−1). These measurements provide new insight into the hydrological dynamics by which shallow groundwater is grossly contaminated (>500 mg L−1) by nitrate through episodic flushing by heavy rainfall of wastewater from a vast estimated network of over 250,000 septic tanks underlying this suburb of Dakar.
A retrospective analysis of pain and opioid usage in head and neck free flap reconstruction
Authors: Towfighi Parhom , Hill Alison , Crossley Jason R. , Walsh Amanda , Leonard James A. , Giurintano Jonathan P. , Pierce Matthew L. , Reilly Michael J.
Published: January 2023

Objectives

Investigate opioid usage and postoperative pain in patients undergoing head and neck free flap surgery.

Methods

A retrospective review of 100 consecutive patients undergoing head and neck free flap reconstruction at two academic centers was performed. Data captured included demographics, postoperative inpatient pain, pain at postoperative visits, morphine equivalent doses (MEDs) administration, medication history, and comorbidities. Data were analyzed using regression models, χ2 tests, and student's t‐tests.

Results

Seventy‐three percent of patients were discharged with opioid medication, with over half (53.4%) continuing to take opioids at their second postoperative visit, and over one‐third (34.2%) continuing to take them around 4‐month postoperatively. One out of every five (20.3%) opioid‐naïve patients chronically took opioids postoperatively. There was a poor association between inpatient postoperative pain scores and daily MEDs administered (R2 = 0.13, 0.17, and 0.22 in postoperative Days 3, 5, and 7, respectively). Neither preoperative radiotherapy nor postoperative complications were associated with an increase in opioid usage.

Conclusions

For patients undergoing head and neck free flap operations, opioid medications are commonly used for postoperative analgesia. This practice may increase the chance an opioid‐naïve patient uses opioids chronically. We found a poor association between MEDs administered and patient‐reported pain scores, which suggests that standardized protocols aimed at optimizing analgesia while reducing opioid administration may be warranted.

Level of Evidence: 3 (Retrospective cohort study).
Zarte Hände bringen Erleichterung. Thure-Brandt-Massage als Zeitdokument und Gründungshilfe für die Urologie
Authors: Mildenberger Florian G. , Moll Friedrich H.
Published: January 2023

Naturheilkunde und Urologie berühren sich in der Gegenwart kaum, aber im viktorianischen Zeitalter war es eine Genitalmassage, die der Ärzteschaft verdeutlichte, dass eine auf die Erkrankungen des Unterleibs spezialisierte Ausbildung für Ärzte notwendig war, da ansonsten die Patientinnen Laienheilkundige aufsuchen würden und keine Kliniken. Diese Massage war von dem schwedischen Offizier Thure Brandt in den 1850er-Jahren entwickelt worden. Sie blieb bis nach dem Zweiten Weltkrieg ein Thema in deutschen Arztpraxen.
Methodological and reporting quality evaluation of Buyang Huanwu decoction for experimental cerebral ischemia–reperfusion injury: a systematic review
Authors: Chen Xiangyu , Yang Tong , Luo Yanan , Feng Zhitao , Fang Rui , Ge Jinwen , Mei Zhigang
Published: January 2023

Buyang Huanwu decoction, a classic traditional Chinese prescription, has been used to prevent and treat stroke for hundreds of years. An increasing number of the laboratory research on Buyang Huanwu decoction used in treating cerebral ischemia–reperfusion injury have been published recently. However, the problem of methodological and reporting quality of some studies is lack of assessment. This study aims to evaluate the methodological and reporting quality of the research on Buyang Huanwu decoction against experimental cerebral ischemia–reperfusion injury. A comprehensive search on six databases was performed. Two researchers independently screened the literature considering the eligibility criteria. Methodological and reporting quality of the included studies were evaluated by the Systematic Review Centre for Laboratory Animal Experimentation (SYRCLE) risk-of-bias tool and Animal Research: Reporting of In Vivo Experiments (ARRIVE) guideline. Forty-five studies met the inclusion criteria. No study achieved a decent overall rating in using the SYRCLE tool (percentage of items with “low risk” ≥ 50%). Of the 22 items on the SYRCLE tool, only 7 items (31.82%) were rated as “low risk” in more than 50% of the included studies. Of the 39 items of ARRIVE guideline, 14 (35.9%) items were rated as “yes” in more than 50% of the included studies. The methodological and reporting quality of Buyang Huanwu decoction for experimental cerebral ischemia–reperfusion injury was substandard, which needed to be further improved. The limitations should be addressed when planning similar studies in the future. Additionally, these findings provided evidence-based guidance for future preclinical studies evaluating the efficacy of Buyang Huanwu decoction in the treatment of cerebral ischemia–reperfusion injury.
On Approximate and Weak Correlated Equilibria in Constrained Discounted Stochastic Games
Authors: Jaśkiewicz Anna , Nowak Andrzej S.
Published: January 2023

In this paper, we consider constrained discounted stochastic games with a countably generated state space and norm continuous transition probability having a density function. We prove existence of approximate stationary equilibria and stationary weak correlated equilibria. Our results imply the existence of stationary Nash equilibrium in ARAT stochastic games.
De Finetti’s Control Problem with Competition
Authors: Ekström Erik , Lindensjö Kristoffer
Published: January 2023

We investigate the effects of competition in a problem of resource extraction from a common source with diffusive dynamics. In the symmetric version with identical extraction rates we provide conditions for the existence of a Nash equilibrium where the strategies are of threshold type, and we characterize the equilibrium threshold. Moreover, we show that increased competition leads to lower extraction thresholds and smaller equilibrium values. For the asymmetric version, where each agent has an individual extraction rate, we provide the existence of an equilibrium in threshold strategies, and we show that the corresponding thresholds are ordered in the same way as the extraction rates.
The VACStent trial: combined treatment of esophageal leaks by covered stent and endoscopic vacuum therapy
Authors: Lange J. , Kähler G. , Bernhardt J. , Knievel J. , Dormann A. , Hügle U. , Eisenberger C. F. , Heiss M. M.
Published: January 2023

Background

Endoscopic treatment of esophageal leaks, mostly by covered stents or endoscopic vacuum therapy (EVT), has largely improved the clinical outcome in the last decade. However, both techniques suffer from significant limitations. Covered stents are hampered by a high rate of migration and missing functional drainage, whereas endoluminal EVT devices are limited by obstruction of the GI tract. The new design of the VACStent makes it a fully covered stent within a polyurethane sponge cylinder, allowing EVT while stent passage is still open. Initial clinical applications have demonstrated the fundamental concept of the VACStent.

Method

A prospective multicenter open-label study was performed with the primary endpoint safe practicality, complete leak coverage, and effective suction-treatment of esophageal leaks. Secondary endpoints were prevention of septic conditions, successful leak healing, and complications, in particular stent-migration, local erosions and bleeding.

Results

Fifteen patients with different, mostly postoperative anastomotic leaks were enrolled in three centers. A total of 41 VACStents were implanted. The mean number of VACStents per patient was 2.7, with a mean duration of VACStent treatment of 15 days. The primary endpoint was met in all VACStent applications (41/41 implants), resulting in a leak healing rate of 80% (12/15 patients). Septic episodes were prevented in 93% (14/15 patients) and there was no mortality. There were no severe device-related adverse events (SADE) nor significant local bleeding or erosion. Minor stent-dislocation and migration, respectively, was observed in 7%. Oral intake of liquids or food was documented in 87% (13/15 patients). One anastomotic stenosis was seen during follow-up.

Conclusions

VACStent treatment is a safe and effective treatment in esophageal leaks which can be covered by the sponge cylinder. Its application was described as easy and resembling that of conventional GI stents, with an impressive clinical success rate comparable to EVT outcomes. The VACStent offers a new option for clinical treatment of critical situations in esophageal perforations and anastomotic sutureline failures.
Ecological regulation for healthy and sustainable food systems: responding to the global rise of ultra-processed foods
Authors: Northcott Tanita , Lawrence Mark , Parker Christine , Baker Phillip
Published: January 2023

Many are calling for transformative food systems changes to promote population and planetary health. Yet there is a lack of research that considers whether current food policy frameworks and regulatory approaches are suited to tackle whole of food systems challenges. One such challenge is responding to the rise of ultra-processed foods (UPF) in human diets, and the related harms to population and planetary health. This paper presents a narrative review and synthesis of academic articles and international reports to critically examine whether current food policy frameworks and regulatory approaches are sufficiently equipped to drive the transformative food systems changes needed to halt the rise of UPFs, reduce consumption and minimise harm. We draw on systems science approaches to conceptualise the UPF problem as an emergent property of complex adaptive food systems shaped by capitalist values and logics. Our findings reveal that current food policy frameworks often adjust or reform isolated aspects of food systems (e.g., prices, labels, food composition), but under-emphasise the deeper paradigms, goals and structures that underlie the rise of UPFs as a systems phenomenon, and its socio-ecological implications. We propose that a ‘leverage points’ framework illuminateswhereto intervene in food systems to generate multi-level changes, while the theory of ecological regulation highlightshowto respond to complex multi-factorial problems, like the rise of UPFs, in diverse ways that respect planetary boundaries. More research is needed to better understand the transformative potential of ecological regulation to advance food systems transformation and attenuate whole of food systems challenges.