bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A CASE STUDY ON THE ROLE OF TIKTA KSHEERA BASTI IN THE MANAGEMENT OF KATIGATA VATA WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO LUMBAR SPONDYLOSIS
Authors: Gaikwad Kalpana , Sonwane Ramesh , UK Neralkar
Published: November 2023

Katigata Vata or Lumbar spondylosis produces low back pain radiating towards the gluteal region of the leg and further towards the great toe. Symptoms include pain, stiffness, tingling numbness, difficulty walking, etc. No unique entity can be connected to Lumbar Spondylosis in Ayurveda. Under Vataja Nanatmaka vikara, it is classified as Katigraha (Stiffness in the lower back). Hereby presenting a case of 62 years old male who visited our institute with the presenting complaints of Katishool (low back ache), Sakashta Chankraman (Difficulty walking), Pain radiating towards the back, and an MRI Lumbar Spine which reported Osteoporosis at the Posterocentral disc protrusion at L2-L3, L4-L5 with L3 and L5 nerve root compression. He decided to undergo Ayurvedic panchakarma therapy along with Shaman Aushadhi. The treatment schedule of 21 days was planned to include therapy of Panchtikta Ksheera Basti along with shaman Aushadhi. Tikta Ksheera Basti tried to reduce the signs and symptoms of patients with Lumbar spondylosis after taking all these aspects into account. The following aspects of low back pain, tingling in the lower back and lower limbs, stiffness in the lower back and lower limbs, joint movements in the lower back and lower limbs, and the Straight Leg Rising Test (SLRT) were evaluated. Before and after administering Basti Karma, the data were gathered. The signs and symptoms of Lumbar Spondylosis were dramatically reduced throughout this 21-day basti, which showed significant efficacy.
Utilizing Selection Indices and Discriminant Function Analysis to Enhance Seed Yield in Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.)
Authors: Patil Laxmi C. , Hemanth S.
Published: November 2023

The current study focuses on harnessing genetic variation and employing selection indices for evaluating thirty-four advanced sesame breeding lines, alongside four checks (DS-5, DSS-9, JTS-8, and TKG-22). The evaluation encompassed the assessment of fifteen quantitative traits during the summer of 2022 at the AICRP on Sesame and Niger, MARS, UAS, Dharwad. Particularly noteworthy was the high genotypic and phenotypic coefficient variation observed for traits such as the number of secondary branches per plant, yield per plant (g) and seed  yield (Kg/ha). The highest heritability coupled with the greatest genetic advance over the mean was detected for the number of primary branches per plant, suggesting a predominant role of additive genetic components in their expression and indicating a promising avenue for  direct selection. The study involved the construction of thirty-one selection indices using the discriminant function technique, which incorporated five key traits: seed yield per plant (g) (X1), days to maturity (X2), number of productive capsules per plant (X3), thousand seed weight (g) (X4), and oil content (%) (X5). Among these various selection indices, the one comprising all component characters (X1, X2, X3, X4, and X5) exhibited the highest expected genetic advance and relative efficiency.
Mental Health Training for Health Care Workers at Eradah and Mental Health Complex in Jeddah City
Authors: Alzahrani Fahad Awadh , Alamri Ibtihaj Razen , Alaslani Aref Faheed , Ageel Hanan Saleh Al , Mukhtar Ghadah Mohammed
Published: November 2023

Aims: This study aims to implement the impact of a mental health training program designed for health workers at Eradah Complex in Jeddah City, Saudi Arabia.

Study Design:  A quasi-study in addition to qualitative designs.

Place and Duration of Study: A mixed method was made at Eradah Complex for the program took 4 months.

Methodology: A mixed-methods research design was employed with A quasi-experimental design employing a single group pre-test/post-test approach utilized to assess the impact of training on knowledge and attitude and using semi-structured interviews. Additionally, qualitative feedback from both the health workers and patients was gathered to gauge the program's impact on the quality of mental health care provided at the Eradah Complex.

Results: A total of 100 participants with different healthcare specialities were selected on quasi-experimental design with nearly equality of males and females’ gender and majority of ages more than 25 years old or less and house officers (physicians). Assessing the knowledge revealed that the group showed a significant difference before assessing the program and after it (p=0.00) with a mean difference of more than 5±1.07 for each type of mental health, also, assessing the attitude revealed that the group showed a significant difference between before assessing the program and after it (p=0.00) except for epilepsy (p= 0.17) with mean difference more than 6±1.06 for each type of mental health.

Conclusion: The findings of this case study highlight the positive outcomes of the mental health training program. Health workers demonstrated significant improvements in their understanding of mental health disorders, communication skills, and ability to support patients experiencing mental health crises. Moreover, the program contributed to a noticeable reduction in the stigma surrounding mental illness among both staff members and patients, fostering a more supportive and compassionate healthcare environment. This case study provides valuable insights into the importance of mental health training for healthcare professionals and offers practical recommendations for other healthcare facilities aiming to enhance the mental health competencies of their staff. The study concludes with a discussion of the implications of the findings and suggestions for future research and improvements in mental health training programs for healthcare workers in similar contexts.
Podoconiosis
Authors: Mansilla-Polo Miguel , López-León Paula Teresa , Botella-Estrada Rafael
Published: November 2023

This case report describes a woman with the appearance of elephantine skin tumors predominantly on her left foot.
Surgical Implantation of Brain Computer Interfaces
Authors: Khan Shujhat , Anderson William , Constandinou Timothy
Published: November 2023

This article discusses the function and capabilities of brain computer interfaces as a novel approach to rehabilitation for a variety of neurological disorders.
Randomized, controlled clinical trial of acoustic stimulation to reduce postconcussive symptoms
Authors: Cole Wesley R. , Tegeler Catherine L. , Choi Y. Sammy , Harris Tyler E. , Rachels Nora , Bellini Paula G. , Haight Thaddeus J. , Gerdes Lee , Tegeler Charles H. , Roy Michael J.
Published: November 2023

Objective

Effective interventions are needed to address postconcussive symptoms. We report the results of randomized, sham‐controlled trial of Cereset Research™ Standard Operating Procedures (CR‐SOP), a noninvasive, closed‐loop, allostatic, acoustic stimulation neurotechnology previously shown to improve insomnia.

Methods

Military service members, veterans, or their spouses with persistent symptoms (Neurobehavioral Symptom Inventory [NSI] Score ≥23) after mTBI 3 months to 10 years ago, were randomized to receive 10 sessions of engineered tones linked to brainwaves (LB, intervention), or random engineered tones not linked to brainwaves (NL, sham control). The primary outcome was change in NSI, with secondary outcomes of heart rate variability and self‐report measures of sleep, mood, and anxiety.

Results

Participants (n = 106, 22% female, mean age 37.1, 2.8 deployments, 3.8 TBIs) were randomized 1:1 to LB or NL, with no significant differences between groups at baseline. Among all study participants, the NSI declined from baseline 41.0 to 27.2 after (P < 0.0001), with gains largely sustained at 3 months (31.2) and 6 months (28.4). However, there were no significant differences between the LB (NSI declined from 39.9 at baseline to 28.2 post‐intervention, 31.5 at 3 months, and 29.4 at 6 months) and NL (NSI declined from 41.5 at baseline to 26.2, 29.9, and 27.3, respectively. Similar patterns were observed for the PCL5 and PHQ‐9 and there was no difference in HRV between groups.

Interpretation

Ten hours of acoustic stimulation while resting in a zero‐gravity chair improves postconcussive symptoms. However, linking tones to brain electrical activity did not reduce symptoms more than random tones.

Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov – NCT03649958
Radiation‐Responsive Metal–Organic Frameworks: Fundamentals and Applications
Authors: Chen Bing , Wang Jiaoran , Peng Linzhuang , Wang Qiang , Wang Yuan , Xu Xiuwen
Published: November 2023

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs), formed by the coordination of metal nodes and organic linkers, constitute a class of multifunctional materials with unprecedentedly high chemical/structural designability. Through properly harnessing the synergistic interplay between high atomic number nodes and functional linkers, radiation‐responsive MOFs have recently come on the scene, which can convert ionizing radiations (e.g., X‐ray, γ‐ray, β‐ray, α‐particle, and neutron) into electrical charges or visible light. Given the attributes of cost‐effectiveness, robust environmental stability, extensive chemical tunability, and diverse functionalities, cutting‐edge radiation‐responsive MOFs with remarkable electronic and optical properties have emerged as promising substitutes for conventional organic and inorganic radiation‐responsive substances in applications across biomedicine and technology. This review article documents recent advancements in radiation‐responsive MOFs by elucidating the foundational mechanisms governing electronic transport and photon conversion within frameworks through inherent node–linker and host–guest interactions prompted by high‐energy radiation. Furthermore, this review delves into state‐of‐the‐art applications that leverage newly formulated radiation‐responsive MOFs, capitalizing on precisely engineered component interactions to achieve efficient energy absorption, conversion, and emission. The rationale behind these developments is concluded and future opportunities for expanding the research of radiation‐responsive MOFs are simultaneously highlighted.
A Ternary (P, Se, S) Covalent Inorganic Framework as a Shuttle Effect‐Free Cathode for Li–S Batteries
Authors: Chen Lu , He Ting , Liao Kexuan , Lu Hang , Ma Jian , Feng Yutong , Meng Shuo , Zhang Chi , Yang Jinhu
Published: November 2023

Developing new cathode materials to avoid shuttle effect of Li–S batteries at source is crucial for practical high‐energy applications, which, however, remains a great challenge. Herein, a new class of sulfur‐containing ternary covalent inorganic framework (CIF), P4Se6S40, is explored, by simply comelting powders of P, S, and Se. The P4Se6S40 CIF with open framework enables all active sites available during electrochemical reactions, giving a high capacity delivery. Moreover, introducing Se atoms can improve intrinsic electronic conductivity of S chains yet without remarkably compromising the capacity because Se is also electrochemical active to lithium storage. More importantly, Se atoms in S–Se chains can serve as a heteroatom barrier to block the bonding of S atoms around, effectively avoiding the formation of long‐chain polysulfides during cycling. Besides, stable Li3PS4 with a tetrahedral configuration formed after lithiation works as not only a good ionic conductor to promote Li ion diffusion, but a three‐dimensional spatial barrier and chemical anchor to suppress the dissolution and diffusion of lithium polysulfides (LiPS), further inhibiting the shuttle effect. Consequently, the P4Se6S40 cathode delivers high capacity and excellent capacity retention with even a high loading of 10.5 mg cm−2 which far surpasses the requirement for commercial applications.
Molecular Engineering of Plasma Membrane and Mitochondria Dual‐Targeted NIR‐II AIE Photosensitizer Evoking Synergetic Pyroptosis and Apoptosis
Authors: Zhuang Jiabao , Ma Zhedong , Li Nan , Chen Huan , Yang Lijin , Lu Ying , Guo Keyi , Zhao Na , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: November 2023

Phototherapy provides a noninvasive and spatiotemporal controllable paradigm to inhibit the evasion of the programmed cell death (PCD) of tumors. However, conventional photosensitizers (PSs) often induce a single PCD process, resulting in insufficient photodamage and severely impeding their application scopes. In this study, molecular engineering is conducted by adjusting electron donors to develop an aggregation‐induced NIR‐II emissive PS (DPITQ) for plasma membrane and mitochondria dual‐targeted tumor therapy by evoking synergetic pyroptosis and apoptosis. DPITQ displays boosted type I and II reactive oxygen species generation as well as a high photothermal conversion efficacy (43%) after laser irradiation of 635 nm. The excellent biocompatibility and appropriate lipophilicity help the DPITQ to specifically anchor in the plasma membrane and mitochondria of cancer cells. Furthermore, the photosensitized DPITQ can disrupt the intact plasma membrane and cause mitochondrial dysfunction, ultimately causing concurrent pyroptosis and apoptosis to suppress cancer cell proliferation even under hypoxia. It is noteworthy that the DPITQ nanoparticles (NPs) present clear NIR‐II fluorescence imaging capability on the venous vessels of nude mice. Notably, the DPITQ NPs exert efficient NIR‐II fluorescence imaging‐guided phototherapy both in multicellular tumor spheroids and in vivo, causing maximum destruction to tumors but minimum adverse effects to normal tissue.
Tunable Stealth Metasurface via Dual Geometric Phase Modulation
Authors: Ma Hao‐Ran , Chen Tian‐ting , Liu Le , Yang Jia‐ji , Qiao Ya‐qing , Yang Shao‐rui , Liu Yi , Duan Jun , Xiong Wei , Deng Lei‐min
Published: November 2023

Tunable metasurfaces are verified as an effective way to modulate electromagnetic (EM) waves within a thin interface. However, most tunable metasurfaces currently use electronic control methods, making it difficult to achieve large‐scale sample manufacturing. This article proposes a novel metasurface design approach based on germanium telluride (GeTe) film, which is used to achieve anomalous scattering of radar detection signals. By designing the composite units to form a 2‐bit dual geometric phase modulation coding array, low reflection characteristics in different frequency bands can be achieved by controlling the state of GeTe, which adds a new degree of freedom to array design. In this article, the phase characteristics of composite units and the EM scattering characteristics of different array arrangements are analyzed in detail. The simulation and experimental results indicate the designed metasurface has excellent dual geometric phase independent modulation ability, and the reflectivity reduction of the fabricated sample is less than ‐10 dB in the range of 11.6–15.2 GHz and 8.0–11.6 GHz before and after phase transition of GeTe film, respectively. This method has significant advantages in design, fabrication, and modulation, which determine that this research can be a good candidate for military stealth materials.
Facile Fabrication of Silica Glass Embedded with NiO Nanoparticles by 3D Printing Technology and its Optical Nonlinearity
Authors: Zhang Kun , Bai Jinzheng , Wan Xuan , Dong Liling , Wang Sikai , Pan Haoyu , Chu Yushi , Ren Jing , Zhang Jianzhong , Peng Gang-Ding
Published: November 2023

Metal and metal oxide nanoparticles (NPs) embedded in glass matrixes exhibit special optical, electrical, or magnetic properties. Despite various approaches of encapsulating NPs in different kinds of glasses to prepare functional composite materials, there still exist challenges in fabricating efficiency and performance for silica glass made by traditional methods, such as sol–gel or melt quenching. Herein, the authors report a facile way to fabricate metal oxide NP‐doped silica glass by digital light processing (DLP) 3D printing technology for the first time. Different from common ion doping in silica glass, metal acetylacetonates that can be thermally decomposed to corresponding metal oxides innocuously, are chosen as a general precursor. Then, the representative nickel(II) acetylacetonate is introduced during the 3D printing process. The subsequent heat treatment generates a homogeneous distribution of NiO NPs in silica glass and it also exhibits optical nonlinear effect. The results provide a facile method for developing functional metal oxide‐doped glasses as well as the freeform fabrication of optoelectronic devices based on them.
Aza‐Prins Cyclization on Ketones to Access Piperidines with Tetrasubstituted Carbon Stereocenters
Authors: Bergounioux Alexandre , Lhotellier Romane , Roisnel Thierry , Gouault Nicolas , Argouarch Gilles , Lalli Claudia
Published: November 2023

The aza‐Prins cyclization in presence of a variety of aliphatic, aromatic, and heterocyclic ketones is disclosed. The developed method allows an access to diverse C‐2 functionalized piperidines, bearing a tetrasubstituted or spiranic carbon stereocenter, in a range of 30 to 87% yields. When diastereomers were formed, the trans isomer was identified as the major product.
Advancing energy and water solutions: Unleashing the potential of Nd2S3:Ni9S8 thin film for supercapacitors and sustainable water purification
Authors: Gul Mahwash Mahar , Ahmad Khuram Shahzad , Thomas Andrew Guy , Tighezza Ammar Mohamed
Published: November 2023

The research was done on the creation and use of bi‐metal sulfide thin film, Nd2S3:Ni9S8. 41 nm‐sized crystallites with 80% crystallinity were found in the material. The evaluated optical characteristics showed a 2.9 eV band gap energy. The presence of Nd3d, S2p, and Ni2p in the created material was confirmed by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Voltammetry tests were carried out to assess the electrochemical characteristics. With a value of 750 Fg−1, the findings obtained showed remarkable supercapacitive capability. Additionally, a thorough examination was done to learn more about the material's potential as a photocatalyst. Malachite green dye, fuberidazole, and phenol were used as environmental contaminants to test the thin films' photocatalytic degradation effectiveness. The highest degradation was found for fuberidazole with a rate constant of 2.46x10−2 min−1. The results demonstrated the versatility of thin films and their efficacy in degrading these pollutants, highlighting their potential for environmental remediation applications.
Fabrication of poly(vinylidene fluoride)‐based composite powder coating with enhanced adhesion performance
Authors: Zhang Cuichuan , Lu Zhiqiang , Jiang Shu‐Dong , Qian Jiasheng
Published: November 2023

Given the environmental benefits, poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF)‐based composite powder coating was developed without using any harmful solvent. However, it still remains poor adhesion to substrates and low compatibility to acrylic resin issues. To address these challenges, PVDF was grafted with glycidyl methacrylate (GMA) through a facile and scalable reactive extrusion method. The resulting product, PVDF‐g‐GMA, was then mixed with different contents of polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), and the mixing was sprayed onto aluminum substrates. The PVDF‐g‐GMA/PMMA powder coating shows the excellent adhesion and corrosion resistance, particularly when the PMMA content is 30 wt%, owning to the good compatibility of PVDF‐g‐GMA and PMMA. This work opens up a new possibilities for the development of advanced composite powder coatings with improved performance characteristics.
A case for the importance of following antibiotic resistant bacteria throughout the soil food web
Authors: Garbisu Carlos , Alkorta Itziar
Published: November 2023

It is necessary to complement next‐generation sequencing data on the soil resistome with theoretical knowledge provided by ecological studies regarding the spread of antibiotic resistant bacteria (ARB) in the abiotic and, especially, biotic fraction of the soil ecosystem. Particularly, when ARB enter agricultural soils as a consequence of the application of animal manure as fertilizer, from a microbial ecology perspective, it is important to know their fate along the soil food web, that is, throughout that complex network of feeding interactions among members of the soil biota that has crucial effects on species richness and ecosystem productivity and stability. It is critical to study how the ARB that enter the soil through the application of manure can reach other taxonomical groups (e.g., fungi, protists, nematodes, arthropods, earthworms), paying special attention to their presence in the gut microbiomes of mesofauna‐macrofauna and to the possibilities for horizontal gene transfer of antibiotic resistant genes.
A Review of Extraction and Purification, Biological Properties, Structure–Activity Relationships and Future Prospects of Schisandrin C: A Major Active Constituent of Schisandra Chinensis
Authors: Xu Hao‐Nan , Wang Wei , Li Xin‐Zhuo , Sun Yu , Li Yu‐Ze , Deng Chong , Song Xiao‐Mei , Zhang Dong‐Dong
Published: November 2023

Since ancient times, China has used natural medicine as the primary way to combat diseases and has a rich arsenal of natural medicines. With the progress of the times, the extraction of bioactive molecules from natural drugs has become the new development direction for natural medicines. Among the numerous natural drugs, Schisandrin C (Sch C), derived from Schisandra Chinensis (Turcz.) Baill. It has excellent potential for development and has been shown to possess various pharmacological properties, including hepatoprotective, antitumor and anti‐inflammatory activities. Based on the biological properties of hepatoprotection, scholars have explored Sch C and its synthetic products in depth; some studies have shown that pentosidine has the effect of improving the symptoms of liver fibrosis and reducing the concentration of alanine transaminase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) in the serum of rats, which is an essential inspiration for the development of anti‐liver fibrosis drugs. But more in vivo and ex vivo studies still need to be included. This paper focuses on Sch C′s extraction and synthesis, biological activities and drug development progress. The future application prospects of Sch C are discussed to perfect its development work further.
Immer kleiner, immer enger: Quantenpunkte
Authors: Harrer Roswitha
Published: November 2023

In den vergangenen Jahren wurden mit dem Nobelpreis für Chemie Arbeiten zur chemischen und biochemischen Methodik geehrt (mit Ausnahme der Erfindung der Lithiumionenbatterien von 2019). Nun wird der Preis wieder deutlich physikalischer. Das Nobelkomitee honorierte in diesem Jahr die Entdeckung und Herstellung von Quantenpunkten, eines nanoskopischen Materiezustands, dessen elektronische Eigenschaften von Quanteneffekten mitbestimmt werden.
Synthesis, characterization, and performance assessment of a perovskite‐type nano photocatalyst for degradation of thiamethoxam
Authors: Pandey Vidya , Bansal Ajay , Toor Amrit Pal
Published: November 2023

It is essential to remove thiamethoxam (THMX) from surface water as it negatively impacts the ecology and neurological systems of insects. Hence, a study was conducted to degrade THMX with different compositions of LaFeO3/g‐C3N4 (LFCN) composites. Several methods, including X‐ray powder diffraction (XRD), ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy (UV–Vis), X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET), and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), were applied to characterize the synthesized photocatalyst. The influence of many parameters on degradation, for example, THMX concentration, dosage of catalyst, and pH were studied experimentally. The degradation was highest under both UV‐C and sunlight for the synthesized catalyst, 1% LaFeO3/g‐C3N4 (LFCN1), in comparison to graphitic carbon nitride (g‐CN), and bare lanthanum ferrite (LF). The degradation was around 95% for LFCN1 under UV‐C light having an intensity of 15 W/m2 whereas degradation was 71.8% with LFCN1 photocatalyst under sunlight at neutral pH in 120 min of reaction time. The increased activity of LFCN1 was attributable to an improved surface area and a lower band gap. The study of reaction kinetics indicated second‐order behaviour. Additionally, a probable mechanism for degradation was put forth.
Progress of Mesoporous Silica Coated Gold Nanorods for Biological Imaging and Cancer Therapy
Authors: Ma Jiaying , Li Yongzhen , Ying Yunfei , Wu Baibei , Liu Yanmei , Zhou Juan , Hu Lidan
Published: November 2023

For unique surface plasmon absorption and fluorescence characteristics, gold nanorods have been developed and widely employed in the biomedical field. However, limitations still exist due their low specific surface area, instability and tendency agglomerate in cytoplasm. Mesoporous silica materials have been broadly applied in field of catalysts, adsorbents, nanoreactors, and drug carriers due to its unique mesoporous structure, highly comparative surface area, good stability and biocompatibility. Therefore, coating gold nanorods with a dendritic mesopore channels can effectively prevent particle agglomeration, while increasing the specific surface area and drug loading efficiency. This review discusses the advancements of GNR@MSN in synthetic process, bio‐imaging technique and tumor therapy. Additionally, the further application of GNR@MSN in imaging‐guided treatment modalities is explored, while its promising superior application prospect is highlighted. Finally, the issues related to in vivo studies are critically examined for facilitating the transition of this promising nanoplatform into clinical trials.
The association between telemedicine, advance care planning, and unplanned hospitalizations among high‐risk patients with cancer
Authors: Bange Erin M. , Li Yimei , Kumar Pallavi , Doucette Abigail , Gabriel Peter , Parikh Ravi , Li Eric H. , Mamtani Ronac , Getz Kelly D.
Published: November 2023

Background

Despite the widespread implementation of telemedicine, there are limited data regarding its impact on key components of care for patients with incurable or high‐risk cancer. For these patients, high‐quality care requires detailed conversations regarding treatment priorities (advance care planning) and clinical care to minimize unnecessary acute care (unplanned hospitalizations). Whether telemedicine affects these outcomes relative to in‐person clinic visits was examined among patients with cancer at high risk for 6‐month mortality.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study included adult patients with cancer with any tumor type treated at the University of Pennsylvania who were newly identified between April 1 and December 31, 2020, to be at high risk for 6‐month mortality via a validated machine learning algorithm. Separate modified Poisson regressions were used to assess the occurrence of advance care planning and unplanned hospitalizations for telemedicine as compared to in‐person visits. Additional analyses were done comparing telemedicine type (video or phone) as compared to in‐person clinic visits.

Results

The occurrence of advance care planning was similar between telemedicine and in‐person visits (6.8% vs. 6.0%; adjusted risk ratio [aRR], 1.25; 95% CI, 0.92–1.69). In regard to telemedicine subtype, patients exposed to video encounters were modestly more likely to have documented advance care planning in comparison to those seen in person (7.5% vs. 6.0%; aRR, 1.48; 95% CI, 1.03–2.11). The 3‐month risk for unplanned hospitalization was comparable for telemedicine compared to in‐person clinic encounters (21% vs. 18%; aRR, 1.06; 95% CI, 0.81–1.38).

Conclusions

In this study, care delivered by telemedicine, compared to in‐person clinic visits, produced comparable rates of advance care planning conversations without increasing hospitalizations, which suggests that vulnerable patients can be managed safely by telemedicine.
Dual‐Coating of Fluorinated Polydimethylsiloxane/Fluorinated SiO2 Nanoparticles for Superhydrophobic and High‐Efficiency Bacteriostatic Surface
Authors: Lu Shao‐Chen , Chien Hsiu‐Wen , Yu Shih‐Hsien , Chen Wei‐Cheng , Chen Hsiu‐Hui
Published: November 2023

A simple two‐step spray method is used to prepare superhydrophobic and bacteriostatic surfaces, involving dual‐coating with polydimethylsiloxane‐normal‐fluorine (PDMS‐NF) or branched‐fluorine (PDMS‐BF) in combination with fluorinated silica nanoparticles (FSiO2‐NPs) using a spray technique. This approach has the potential to create surfaces with both water‐repellent and antimicrobial properties, which could be useful in a variety of applications. It is noteworthy that the dual‐coating on cotton fabric exhibited an impressive dual‐scale roughness and achieved superhydrophobicity with a water contact angle of 158° and a hysteresis of less than 3°. Additionally, the coating was subjected to an ultra‐high concentration of bacteria (109 CFU/mL) and was still able to inhibit more than 80 % of attachment, demonstrating its effectiveness as a bacteriostatic surface.
Reactions of Ethynyloxy Radical with Hydroperoxyl Radical: Bridging Theoretical Reaction Dynamics and Chemical Modeling of Combustion
Authors: Guo Junjiang , Tan Ningxin , Chen Lijun , Tang Shiyun , Tang Anjiang
Published: November 2023

A detailed and accurate combustion reaction mechanism is crucial for understanding the nature of fuel combustion. In this work, a theoretical study of reaction HCCO+HO2 using M06‐2X/6‐311++G(d,p) for geometry optimization and combined methods based on spin‐unrestricted CCSD(T)/CBS level of theory with basis set extrapolation from MP2/aug‐cc‐pVnZ (n=T and Q) for energy calculations were performed. The temperature‐ and pressure‐dependent rate coefficients at 300–2000 K and 0.01–100 atm, suitable for combustion conditions, were derived using the Rice–Ramsberger–Kassel–Marcus/Master–Equation approach. Furthermore, temperature‐dependent thermochemistry data of key species for the HCCO+HO2 system has also been studied. Finally, an updated ketene model is developed by supplementing the most recent theoretical work and the theoretical work in this paper. This updated model was tested to simulate the speciation of ketene oxidation in available experimental research. It is shown that the updated model for predicting ketene oxidation exhibits a high level of agreement with experimental data across a wide range of species profiles. An analysis was conducted to identify the crucial reactions that influence ketene ignition. This paper‘s research findings are essential for enhancing the combustion mechanism of ketene and other hydrocarbons and oxygenated hydrocarbon fuels.
Aniline and Indoline Donors Based Far‐Red Active Unsymmetrical Squaraine Dyes for Dye Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Jadhav Avinash P. , Singh Ambarish Kumar , Maibam Ashakiran , Krishnamurty Sailaja , Krishnamoorthy Kothandam , Nithyanandhan Jayaraj
Published: November 2023

In dye‐sensitized solar cells (DSSC), controlling the dye‐aggregation on the metal‐oxide surface by appending the alkyl groups around the donor or π‐spacer unit of the dye is a potential approach to enhance DSSC efficiency. Further, rigidification of the dye structures by cyclization modulates the photophysical properties of the sensitizer. Here a series of donor‐acceptor‐donor (D‐A‐D) type far‐red active unsymmetrical squaraine dyes (SQA) have been designed and synthesized, where N,N‐dimethylaniline, methylated‐ and branched‐indoline have been used as donor units. These dyes showed absorption between 629–654 nm (λmax) with the molar extinction coefficient of 1.49–1.94×105 M−1 cm−1. Systematic enhancements in DSSC device efficiency have been observed due to the cyclization and alkyl‐groups incorporation in this set of dyes which were further enhanced with the addition of chenodeoxycholic acid (CDCA). The highest DSSC device efficiency of 4.78 % (Jsc of 8.77 mA/cm2 and Voc of 692 mV) has been achieved for SQA3. The IPCE profile of SQA dyes indicates the contribution of aggregated structures for the photocurrent generation. Further, co‐sensitization of SQA3 dye with a complementary visible light active dye AK4 showed the enhanced device efficiency of 6.27 % with panchromatic IPCE response.
Generation and characterization of Chd7‐iCreERT2‐tdTomato mice
Authors: Han Zi'ang , Wang Ze , Huang Zhuxi , Feng Weijun
Published: November 2023

Heterozygous mutation of CHD7 gene causes a severe developmental disorder called CHARGE syndrome. In order to further explore the expression and function of Chd7 in vivo, we generated a Chd7‐P2A‐iCreERT2‐P2A‐tdTomato (in short, Chd7‐CT‐tdT) knockin mouse line using the CRISPR/Cas9 technology. The specificity and efficiency of two knockin genetic elements were validated. The Chd7‐CT‐tdT reporter gene could accurately reflect both the dynamic expression pattern of endogenous Chd7 during neurodevelopment and cell‐type specific expression in the brain and eye. The recombination efficiency of Chd7‐CT‐tdT in postnatal cerebellum is very high. Moreover, lineage tracing experiment showed that Chd7 is expressed in intestinal stem cells. In summary, the newly constructed Chd7‐CT‐tdT mouse line provide a useful tool to study the function of Chd7.
Phenotypic plasticity of a generalist fish species resident to lotic environments: Insights from the Great Lakes region
Authors: Hetzel Claire , Forsythe Patrick
Published: November 2023

Fish morphology is incredibly plastic and local/resident morphology can be influenced by factors including habitat, predation, resource availability, and water velocity. Through analysis of body shape using geometric morphometrics, we describe the degree of phenotypic plasticity within a generalist fish species resident to low‐order tributaries of Green Bay and Lake Michigan. We predicted that isolated populations of creek chub (Semotilus atromaculatus) would display plastic responses in body shape due to differences in selective pressures imposed by stream environments. We show that body shape of creek chub was significantly different between streams which are considered to be isolated populations, and while we expected body shape variation to remain constant between study years, we found that shape was not fixed and changed over time in the same manner among focal streams. The diversity of creek chub diet and degree of agricultural land use in the watershed were significant predictors of body morphology. The effect of resource availability and land use within the watershed demonstrates how selective pressures influence phenotypes at the population level. Our study provides insight into morphological changes of stream fish populations, which may be important in the context of changing ecosystems and novel conditions.
Impact of vasodilators on diuretic response in patients with congestive heart failure: A mechanistic trial of cimlanod (BMS‐986231)
Authors: Pellicori Pierpaolo , Cleland John G.F. , Borentain Maria , Taubel Jorg , Graham Fraser J. , Khan Javed , Bruzzese Dario , Kessler Paul , McMurray John J.V. , Voors Adriaan A. , O'Connor Christopher M. , Teerlink John R. , Felker G. Michael
Published: November 2023

Aim

To investigate the effects of Cimlanod, a nitroxyl donor with vasodilator properties, on water and salt excretion after an administration of an intravenos bolus of furosemide.

Methods and results

In this randomized, double‐blind, mechanistic, crossover trial, 21 patients with left ventricular ejection fraction <45%, increased plasma concentrations of N‐terminal pro‐B‐type natriuretic peptide (NT‐proBNP) and receiving loop diuretics were given, on separate study days, either an 8 h intravenous (IV) infusion of cimlanod (12 μg/kg/min) or placebo. Furosemide was given as a 40 mg IV bolus four hours after the start of infusion. The primary endpoint was urine volume in the 4 h after the bolus of furosemide during infusion of cimlanod compared with placebo. Median NT‐proBNP at baseline was 1487 (interquartile range: 847–2665) ng/L. Infusion of cimlanod increased cardiac output and reduced blood pressure without affecting cardiac power index consistent with its vasodilator effects. Urine volume in the 4 h post‐furosemide was lower with cimlanod (1032 ± 393 ml) versus placebo (1481 ± 560 ml) (p = 0.002), as were total sodium excretion (p = 0.004), fractional sodium excretion (p = 0.016), systolic blood pressure (p < 0.001), estimated glomerular filtration rate (p = 0.012), and haemoglobin (p = 0.010), an index of plasma volume expansion.

Conclusions

For patients with heart failure and congestion, vasodilatation with agents such as cimlanod reduces the response to diuretic agents, which may offset any benefit from acute reductions in cardiac preload and afterload.
Honey Bees and Associated Matrices as Biomonitors of Soil Trace Elements: Assessment of their Sensitivity in a Regional Rural Environment
Authors: Praus Lukáš , Urbanová Sára , Száková Jiřina
Published: November 2023

Honey bees (Apis mellifera L.) represent a random biosampler integrating pollutants over space and time. An effective biomonitor for trace element (TE) pollution should provide a linear response to TE levels in the environment. However, uncertainties in detecting TEs originating in soil limit their use. To address this, nine experimental sites with multiple apiaries were established in the Upper Palatine Forest, Czech Republic. The soils surrounding the hives were characterized by estimations of the pseudototal and (bio)available pools of TEs. Our study aimed to (1) quantify the linear relationships between soil TE indices and TE contents in bees, bee bread, honey, and wax, and (2) verify the biobarrier function protecting honey from TE contamination. Lead (0.046–0.140 µg g−1) and nickel (0.12–4.30 µg g−1) contents in bees showed strong linear correlations with (bio)available Pb (0.012–0.254 µg g−1) and pseudototal Ni (17.1–36.4 µg g−1) in soil (Pearson's r = 0.95 and 0.88, p < 0.005), providing high spatial resolution. A weaker, insignificant correlation was observed for chromium (Cr; r = 0.65) and vanadium (V; 0.44), while no correlation was found for cadmium (Cd). However, the lack of associations for Cr, V, and Cd may result from the low soil TE levels in the region, negligible differences among the majority of sites, and temporal concerns related to different time scales of the biomonitors, impacting the linear model's sensitivity. Biochemical traits in bees, such as the biobarrier function, and different bioavailability of TEs from ingested matter may affect the matrix-to-matrix transfer of TEs in an element-dependent manner. Consequently, the linear response of bee-related biomonitors to TE levels in the environment may significantly deteriorate. Environ Toxicol Chem 2024;43:288–298. © 2023 The Authors. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of SETAC.
Development of curcumin‐loaded nanoemulsion stabilized with texturized whey protein concentrate: Characterization, stability and in vitro digestibility
Authors: Jafari Morteza , Parastouei Karim , Abbaszadeh Sepideh
Published: November 2023

The impacts of pH (2.8, 4.5, and 7.2) and extrusion cooking temperature (60°C, 85°C, and 110°C) on properties of native whey protein concentrate (NWPC) were evaluated, followed by delivering of curcumin through a nanoemulsion system stabilized with extruded WPC (EWPC). Protein solubility, surface hydrophobicity, and emulsion properties such as emulsion activity index (at 1% [w/w] protein concentration), stability index (at 0.5%, 1%, 2%, and 4% [w/w] protein concentration) and creaming index (evaluated at different protein concentrations [0.5%, 1%, 2%, and 4% w/w] and oil levels [20%, 40%, 60%, and 80%]) were improved as a function of the extrusion process. It was found that both covalent and non‐covalent interactions contributed to the stabilization of the extrudates. The rheological investigation of the emulsions stabilized with EWPC (at different oil levels [20%, 40%, 60%, and 80%]) revealed high viscosity and shear thinning behavior as well as much higher G′ and G″ values. Encapsulation efficiency was increased from 90.8% to 95.7% when NWPC and EWPC were used, respectively. The curcumin‐loaded nanoemulsion containing EWPC presented high stability in confronting with ionic strength (NaCl salt with a concentration of 0.1–1 M), pH (3, 5, and 7), thermal treatments (pasteurization at 63°C for 30 min and sterilization at 95°C for 10 min) and storage time (1 month at 4°C and 25°C). In vitro release behavior revealed that samples stabilized with EWPC showed burst release in simulated intestine conditions. However, it was more stable in stomach conditions.
Endoscopic endonasal transpterygoid nasopharyngectomy: Anatomical considerations and technical note
Authors: Liu Jianfeng , Zhao Jianhui , Wang Yibei , Zhao Yu , Han Jun , Yang Dazhang
Published: November 2023

Background

The study was designed to identify new landmarks in the parapharyngeal segment of the internal carotid artery (ICA) for nasopharyngectomy and describe a surgical procedure of endoscopic endonasal transpterygoid nasopharyngectomy (EETPN).

Methods

Four cadaveric specimens were injected with colored silicone and subjected to CT scanning before dissection. The nasopharyngeal skull base was exposed using the endoscopic endonasal transpterygoid approach. The clinical data of four patients with nasopharyngeal malignances who underwent EETPN were reviewed.

Results

The lateral edge of the longus capitis muscle medially; the foramen lacerum, petrous apex spine and the stump of the levator veli palatini muscle superior laterally; and the upper parapharyngeal ICA laterally constitute the ICA‐longus capitis muscle‐petrous apex spine triangle which was a novel landmark for the upper parapharyngeal segment of the ICA.

Conclusion

The ICA‐longus capitis muscle‐petrous apex spine triangle are important landmarks of the upper parapharyngeal segment of the ICA.
Laparoscopic total pelvic exenteration combined with transanal total mesorectal excision for locally advanced prostate cancer with rectal infiltration
Authors: Ogasawara Ryo Andy , Okubo Naoya , Nakanishi Yasukazu , Imasato Naoki , Hirose Kohei , Kataoka Madoka , Yajima Shugo , Ikeda Koji , Ito Masaaki , Masuda Hitoshi
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Intensive treatment is typically considered for very high‐risk patients with locally advanced prostate cancer and an expected survival time of 5 years or longer. Herein, we report a case of locally advanced prostate cancer with rectal infiltration treated with laparoscopic total pelvic exenteration combined with transanal total mesorectal excision.

Case presentation

A 73‐year‐old man presented with a ring‐shaped mass around the rectum. He was diagnosed with prostate cancer with rectal infiltration and underwent laparoscopic total pelvic exenteration combined with transanal total mesorectal excision following neoadjuvant androgen deprivation therapy. Twenty‐two months postoperatively during ongoing androgen deprivation therapy, no biochemical recurrence was observed.

Conclusion

To our knowledge, this is the first report of a laparoscopic total pelvic exenteration combined with transanal total mesorectal excision for prostate cancer with rectal infiltration. We believe this surgery may be considered a new option for high‐risk prostate cancer patients with rectal infiltration.
The Effect of Asfotase Alfa on Plasma and Urine Pyrophosphate Levels and Pseudofractures in a Patient With Adult‐Onset Hypophosphatasia
Authors: Hidaka Naoko , Murata Hiroaki , Tachikawa Kanako , Osaki Keiichi , Sekiyama Takashi , Kinoshita Yuka , Kato Hajime , Hoshino Yoshitomo , Kimura Soichiro , Sunouchi Takashi , Watanabe So , Nangaku Masaomi , Makita Noriko , Michigami Toshimi , Ito Nobuaki
Published: November 2023

Hypophosphatasia (HPP) is an inherited disease caused by variants of the ALPL gene encoding tissue‐nonspecific alkaline phosphatase. Adult‐onset HPP (adult HPP), known as a mild form of HPP, develops symptoms involving osteomalacia after the age of 18 years. Asfotase alfa (AA) is a modulated recombinant human alkaline phosphatase (ALP) that has been established as a first‐line therapy for severe forms of HPP, such as perinatal and infantile forms. We described a 64‐year‐old female who presented with pseudofractures in bilateral femur diaphyses and impaired mobility. Low serum ALP activity and a high concentration of urine phosphoethanolamine indicated the diagnosis of HPP, which was confirmed by the identification of a homozygous variant in the ALPL gene (c.319G > A; p.Val107Ile). An in vitro transfection experiment to measure the ALP activity of this novel variant protein was performed, resulting in 40% of the residual enzymatic activity compared with the wild type. AA was initiated to facilitate the union of pseudofracture and to improve mobility. After 6 months, radiographic images revealed the disappearance of fracture lines, and improvement of ambulatory ability was confirmed by the 6‐minute walk test (525 to 606 m). The EQ‐5D‐5L index was also improved (0.757 to 0.895). Within a follow‐up period, the levels of urine pyrophosphate corrected by urine creatinine (uPPi/Cre) declined in parallel with the level of plasma PPi (plasma PPi: 6.34 to 1.04 μM, uPPi/Cre: 226.8 to 75.4 nmol/mg). The beneficial effect of AA on pseudofracture healing in adult HPP was presented, although the application of AA should be restricted to patients exhibiting relatively severe manifestations. In addition, a novel pathogenic variant of the ALPL gene was identified with the supportive result of functional analysis. Furthermore, when monitoring patients with HPP treated with AA, uPPi/Cre might be a convenient substitute for plasma PPi, which requires immediate filtration after blood sampling. © 2023 The Authors. JBMR Plus published by Wiley Periodicals LLC. on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
An evaluation of dental continuing professional development programs in the USA and Canada
Authors: Luu Kovie , Da Silva Keith
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This research explores continuing professional development (CPD) requirements for dental regulatory/licensing authorities located in the USA/Canada and their preferences toward different learning and assessment strategies.

Methods

Data were first retrieved through an environmental scan of CPD requirements posted on the websites for the 62 regulatory/licensing authorities located in the USA/Canada. Subsequently, an electronic questionnaire was distributed to the appropriate contact at each regulatory authority to capture additional data related to knowledge and preferences.

Results

The environmental scan revealed that Canadian CPD programs had a significantly higher (p < 0.05) average of required CPD hours (26.67 ± 5.44) when compared to the USA (18.20 ± 4.23). For the survey component, 35 completed responses were received (response rate 56%). A total of 54% of respondents selected from a Likert scale that they “rarely” incorporate formative assessments, and 68% only “sometimes” or “often” incorporate summative assessments into their CPD programs. Additionally, 63% of respondents “never” incorporated predisposing activities, and 57% “never” incorporated reinforcing activities. It was perceived that renewal fees were insufficient to finance ongoing CPD costs (60%) and external industry sponsorships were required to sustain programs (43%). Respondents indicated that there is an insufficient number of evidence‐based courses available in a variety of dental disciplines.

Conclusions

Formative and summative assessments and predisposing and reinforcing learning activities were not viewed as essential tools in CPD programs. Costs and human resources could be possible obstacles in incorporating learning activities and assessments. Future studies can build from the initial results of this study to improve the quality of learning in CPD programs.