bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Historische Entwicklung der Konstruktionsregeln von Stahlbetonstützen – Hintergründe zu den derzeit geltenden Konstruktionsregeln
Authors: Matz Henrik , Empelmann Martin
Published: January 2022

Die Stahlbetonstütze ist seit Beginn des 20. Jahrhunderts ein unverzichtbares Bauteil zum Abtrag vertikaler Lasten. Im Laufe der bisher 117‐jährigen Normung im Stahlbetonbau haben sich unter Berücksichtigung immer neuer Erkenntnisse in Forschung und Praxis die heute bekannten Konstruktionsregeln entwickelt. Ein Rückblick auf die historische Entwicklung der konstruktiven Durchbildung von Stützen und die Hintergründe der jeweiligen Regeln ist heute aus zwei Gründen sinnvoll. Die Kenntnis über die konstruktive Durchbildung maßgebender Bauteile ist für das Bauen im Bestand aufgrund häufig fehlender Pläne und Angaben von großer Bedeutung. Außerdem vermitteln die Hintergründe zu den Konstruktionsregeln ein Verständnis für die Wirkungsweise der konstruktiven Stützenbewehrung und somit für das Tragverhalten von Stahlbetonstützen.
Understanding the interaction of proteins to ion exchange chromatographic supports: A surface energetics approach
Authors: Aasim Muhammad , Khan Muhammad H. , Bibi Noor Shad , Fernandez‐Lahore Marcelo
Published: January 2022

Ion exchange chromatography is one of the most widely used chromatographic technique for the separation and purification of important biological molecules. Due to its wide applicability in separation processes, a targeted approach is required to suggest the effective binding conditions during ion exchange chromatography. A surface energetics approach was used to study the interaction of proteins to different types of ion exchange chromatographic beads. The basic parameters used in this approach are derived from the contact angle, streaming potential, and zeta potential values. The interaction of few model proteins to different anionic and cationic exchanger, with different backbone chemistry, that is, agarose and methacrylate, was performed. Generally, under binding conditions, it was observed that proteins having negative surface charges showed strong to lose interaction (20 kT for Hannilase to 0.5 kT for IgG) with different anionic exchangers (having different positive surface charges). On the contrary, anionic exchangers showed almost no interaction (0–0.1 kT) with the positively charged proteins. An inverse behavior was observed for the interaction of proteins to cationic exchangers. The outcome from these theoretical calculations can predict the binding behavior of different proteins under real ion exchange chromatographic conditions. This will ultimately propose a better bioprocess design for protein separation.
Analysis of fouling and breakthrough of process related impurities during depth filtration using confocal microscopy
Authors: Parau Maria , Johnson Thomas F. , Pullen James , Bracewell Daniel G.
Published: January 2022

Titer improvement has driven process intensification in mAb manufacture. However, this has come with the drawback of high cell densities and associated process related impurities such as cell debris, host cell protein (HCP), and DNA. This affects the capacity of depth filters and can lead to carryover of impurities to protein A chromatography leading to early resin fouling. New depth filter materials provide the opportunity to remove more process related impurities at this early stage in the process. Hence, there is a need to understand the mechanism of impurity removal within these filters. In this work, the secondary depth filter Millistak+ X0HC (cellulose and diatomaceous earth) is compared with the X0SP (synthetic), by examining the breakthrough of DNA and HCP. Additionally, a novel method was developed to image the location of key impurities within the depth filter structure under a confocal microscope. Flux, tested at 75, 100, and 250 LMH was found to affect the maximal throughput based on the max pressure of 30 psi, but no significant changes were seen in the HCP and DNA breakthrough. However, a drop in cell culture viability, from 87% to 37%, lead to the DNA breakthrough at 10% decreasing from 81 to 55 L/m2 for X0HC and from 105 to 47 L/m2 for X0SP. The HCP breakthrough was not affected by cell culture viability or filter type. The X0SP filter has a 30%–50% higher max throughput depending on viability, which can be explained by the confocal imaging where the debris and DNA are distributed differently in the layers of the filter pods, with more of the second tighter layer being utilized in the X0SP.
Advances in 3D printing of composite scaffolds for the repairment of bone tissue associated defects
Authors: Anandhapadman Ashwin , Venkateswaran Ajay , Jayaraman Hariharan , Veerabadran Ghone Nalinkanth
Published: January 2022

The conventional methods of using autografts and allografts for repairing defects in bone, the osteochondral bone, and the cartilage tissue have many disadvantages, like donor site morbidity and shortage of donors. Moreover, only 30% of the implanted grafts are shown to be successful in treating the defects. Hence, exploring alternative techniques such as tissue engineering to treat bone tissue associated defects is promising as it eliminates the above‐mentioned limitations. To enhance the mechanical and biological properties of the tissue engineered product, it is essential to fabricate the scaffold used in tissue engineering by the combination of various biomaterials. Three‐dimensional (3D) printing, with its ability to print composite materials and with complex geometry seems to have a huge potential in scaffold fabrication technique for engineering bone associated tissues. This review summarizes the recent applications and future perspectives of 3D printing technologies in the fabrication of composite scaffolds used in bone, osteochondral, and cartilage tissue engineering. Key developments in the field of 3D printing technologies involves the incorporation of various biomaterials and cells in printing composite scaffolds mimicking physiologically relevant complex geometry and gradient porosity. Much recently, the emerging trend of printing smart scaffolds which can respond to external stimulus such as temperature, pH and magnetic field, known as 4D printing is gaining immense popularity and can be considered as the future of 3D printing applications in the field of tissue engineering.
The association of obesity with thyroid carcinoma risk
Authors: Ma Xiao‐Ni , Ma Cheng‐Xu , Hou Li‐Jie , Fu Song‐Bo
Published: January 2022

Background

The prevalence of obesity and an increased incidence of thyroid carcinoma (TC) threaten public health in parallel on a global scale. Sufficient evidence supports excess body fatness in thyroid carcinogenesis, and the role and anthropometric markers of obesity have been causally associated with the rising risk of TC.

Methods

A literature search was conducted in PubMed. Studies focused on the effect of obesity in TC.

Results

This review mainly discusses the global incidence and prevalence of obesity‐related TC. We also review the role of obesity in TC and potential clinical strategies for obesity‐related TC.

Conclusions

Excess body fatness in early life and TC survival initiate adverse effects later in life.
Iron leaching from nonrefractory grade bauxite: Individual process optimization and prediction by using DOE
Authors: Stein Alena , Sax Almuth , Quirmbach Peter
Published: January 2022

Bauxite is an important raw material for the production of refractories. The availability of refractory grade ore worldwide is limited, and high iron contents in particular reduce the quality of the material. For refractory applications, a maximum iron content of 2 % is acceptable. In this study, acid leaching with HCl is used to decrease the iron content in different nonrefractory grade raw bauxites. Computerized design of experiments and statistical methods are used to determine optimum process parameters and influencing factors for different bauxites individually. Compared to previously published studies, the applied approach makes it possible to process even very iron‐rich bauxites (e.g., 31 % Fe2O3 in calcined substance) and to lower their Fe2O3 contents below the permitted 2 %. In addition, larger grain sizes (around 5.5 mm) can be used. Statistical planning and mathematical modeling also allow the prediction of the minimum achievable iron content within the investigated parameter ranges. For selected parameter combinations, the achievable Fe2O3 content can be predicted relatively accurately without the requirement for practical testing of the corresponding experimental setup.
Towards enantioselective ultrahigh performance liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry‐based metabolomics of branched‐chain fatty acids and anteiso‐fatty acids under reversed‐phase conditions using sub‐2‐μm amylose‐ and cellulose‐derived chiral stationary phases
Authors: Geibel Christian , Zhang Li , Serafimov Kristian , Gross Harald , Lämmerhofer Michael
Published: January 2022

Branched‐chain fatty acids (BCFAs) are mostly saturated fatty acids with one or more methyl, seldom ethyl, branches in the alkyl chain. They are derived from branched‐chain amino acids, ruminant‐derived food, or biosynthetic side products of acetyl‐CoA carboxylase. They possess iso‐ (branching at penultimate carbon) and anteiso‐fatty acid structure (branching at antepenultimate carbon) or are branched at any other position of the carbon chain. Except for iso‐fatty acids, BCFAs are chiral. They are commonly analyzed by GC‐MS, while there is a lack of enantioselective LC‐MS methods. In this work, we present a methodology for targeted enantioselective UHPLC‐ESI‐MS/MS metabolomics of BCFAs. It makes use of precolumn derivatization with 1‐naphthylamine and reversed‐phase elution conditions. A homologous series of short BCFA analytes with distinct chain lengths (having up to eight carbon atoms), branching type (methyl or ethyl), and position of branching (2, 3, and 4, anteiso and iso) has been systematically studied on six commercially available polysaccharide UHPLC columns. Chiralpak IB‐U exhibited the highest and broadest enantioselectivity while IH‐U maintained enantioselectivity also for BCFAs with chirality distant from the carboxylic function (i.e., with other branching than in 2‐position). The method was used to assign the absolute configuration of a 4‐methylhexanoic acid side chain of a natural product from Streptomyces sp. SHP 22‐7. The potential of the corresponding UHPLC‐ESI‐QTOF‐MS/MS assay for analyzing stereoselectively BCFAs and other short organic acids by untargeted analysis in human urine was further elucidated in a preliminary proof‐of‐principle test.
Cadmium Accumulation in a Tropicalized Lettuce Variety Under Overfertilization Simulation
Authors: Nunes Ellen Aparecida , Kiyota Eduardo , Andrade Sara Adrián López
Published: January 2022

Cadmium (Cd) can accumulate in vegetables and enter the food chain. The production of vegetables usually uses excessive amounts of fertilizers which bring environmental and health damages. The authors investigate the relationship between fertilization with nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) and the accumulation of Cd and nitrate in lettuce of the tropicalized variety “Gloriosa.” The experiment is under greenhouse conditions in a 2×2 factorial design, with the addition or not of 10 mg kg−1 Cd to the soil, and the use of one and three times the recommended rate of N, P, and K for lettuce crop. The higher fertilization rate is related to the increase of Cd in the shoots. Gloriosa lettuce shows high Cd‐accumulation capacity, especially in the shoots, evidencing great Cd‐translocation. Fresh leaves reach up to 8 mg kg−1 Cd, higher than permissible limits, but high Cd‐tolerance and no visual symptoms of toxicity or reduction in biomass production. In plants grown with three times the recommended rates of N, nitrate concentrations are within the permissible limits for leafy vegetables. To avoid Cd‐accumulation, besides monitoring soil Cd, it would be necessary to establish safe rates of fertilization for the cultivation of tropicalized lettuce varieties.
Fluorapatite‐Supported Palladium Catalyst for the Synthesis of Alkenyl Nitriles
Authors: Vishwakarma Rakhi S. , Kantam M. Lakshmi , Rathod Virendra K.
Published: January 2022

Fluorapatite‐supported palladium catalyzed C=C bond cleavage of α, β‐unsaturated ketones to alkenyl nitriles is presented. The reaction was performed with different basic catalysts, such as hydroxyapatite (HAP), fluorapatite (FAP), tert‐butoxyapatite (TBAP), and Mg−Al−HT derived oxide. Later, fluorapatite‐supported palladium (PdFAP) catalyst was prepared by treatment of fluorapatite with bis(benzonitrile) palladium(II) chloride. PdFAP catalyst was characterized by XRD, TEM, BET, CHN analysis, ICP‐AES and FTIR. The average particle size of the palladium particles in the PdFAP catalyst was found in the range of 35–45 nm. The reaction to synthesize cinnamonitrile from cinnamoyl pyrrole and acetonitrile was optimized at 383 K for 6 h using a toluene‐cyclohexane solvent system with 95% conversion and 90% selectivity. A kinetic model was also developed. The catalyst was recovered and reused for three cycles.
One‐Step Synthesis of (CH3NH3)2CuCl4:ZnS Thin Film for Optoelectronic Applications
Authors: Ahmed Mohammad Tanvir , Islam Shariful , Bashar Muhammad Shahriar , Ahmed Farid
Published: January 2022

Improving device performance and reducing Pb‐toxicity is one of the fundamental issues of perovskite‐based optoelectronic technology. This research demonstrates the synthesis and characterization of pure and ZnS incorporated Cu‐based organic–inorganic perovskite via the precursor blending method. The thin films of the perovskites are deposited via one‐step spin coating method. X‐ray diffraction of all the films reveals the cubic phase where a decrease of cell volume is observed after ZnS addition. The average grain size also reduces after ZnS incorporation that is found from scanning electron microscopy analysis. The absorption coefficient of the films is of the order of 103 cm−1 in low wavelength range while a blueshifting of the absorption peak is seen due to ZnS addition. The overall resistance of the film increased with increasing ZnS concentration. An increasing bandgap from 2.3 to 2.4 eV is observed for different ZnS concentrations.
Comparative metagenomics analysis reveals how the diet shapes the gut microbiota in several small mammals
Authors: Li Fengjun , Yang Shengzhi , Zhang Linwan , Qiao Lu , Wang Lei , He Song , Li Jian , Yang Nan , Yue Bisong , Zhou Chuang
Published: January 2022

The gut microbiomes of the host are large and complex communities, which helps to maintain homeostasis, improves digestive efficiency, and promotes the development of the immune system. The small mammals distributed in Sichuan Province are the most popular species for biodiversity research in Southwest China. However, the effects of different diets on the structure and function of the gut microbial community of these small mammals are poorly understood. In this study, whole‐metagenome shotgun sequencing has been used to analyze the composition and functional structures of the gut microbiota of seven small mammals in Laojunshan National Nature Reserve, Sichuan Province, China. Taxonomic classification revealed that the most abundant phyla in the gut of seven small mammals were Bacteroides, Proteobacteria, and Firmicutes. Moreover, Hafnia, Lactobacillus, and Yersinia were the most abundant genus in the gut microbiomes of these seven species. At the functional level, we annotated a series of KEGG functional pathways, six Cazy categories, and 46,163 AROs in the gut microbiomes of the seven species. Comparative analysis found that the difference in the gut microbiomes between the Soricidea and Muridae concentrated on the increase in the F/B (Firmicutes/Bacteroides) ratio in the Soricidea group, probably driven by the high‐fat and ‐calorie digestive requirements due to their insectivorous diet. The comparative functional profiling revealed that functions related to metabolism and carbohydrates were significantly more abundant in Muridae group, which may be attributed to their high carbohydrate digestion requirements caused by their herbivorous diet. These data suggested that different diets in the host may play an important role in shaping the gut microbiota, and lay the foundation for teasing apart the influences of heritable and environmental factors on the evolution of gut microbial communities.
Visible Light‐mediated Tandem Addition/Elimination Reaction of Iododifluoromethyl Ketones and Alkenes
Authors: Wu Fanhong , Li Zhi , Huang Guozhi , Wu Jihong , Wu Jingjing , Yu Yanyan
Published: January 2022

A new and efficient synthesis of allyl difluorides has been developed via visible light‐mediated photoredox‐catalyzed tandem addition/elimination reaction of iododifluoromethyl ketones and alkenes. This method has demonstrated mild conditions and broad substrate scope tolerance, and has offered an alternative way for direct fluoroalkylation of alkenes.
Clinical meaning of body temperatures in anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa
Authors: Duriez Philibert , Mastellari Tomas , Viltart Odile , Gorwood Philip
Published: January 2022

Objective

Bradycardia is one of the common cardiac abnormalities in patients with eating disorders. It ensues from hypometabolism, which results from reduced caloric intake and consequential weight loss. Hypothermia is another consequence of hypometabolism. While at‐rest metabolism and body mass index (BMI) are typically used to assess hypometabolism and estimate potential bradycardia, we hypothesised that body temperature, which is easy to measure, could also capture the presence of this threatening cardiovascular condition.

Method

We monitored heart rate continuously for 72 h, measured resting energy expenditure (REE) and assessed body temperature in 12 body parts for 58 patients with anorexia nervosa (AN) and 29 patients with bulimia nervosa (BN).

Results

Palm temperature reflects bradycardia in both AN and BN, explaining 18% of its variance (p < 0.001), capturing this aspect even more efficiently than BMI. We also observe different correlations between palm temperature, abdominal temperature, BMI, REE and levels of physical activity.

Conclusion

Palm temperature could be used as a warning of bradycardia, a serious cardiovascular condition which can be difficult to detect in short visits with outpatients. Further studies are needed to determine how useful bradycardia and palm temperature could be to assess severity and prognosis of the disorder.
Influences of hydrogen addition from different dual‐fuel modes on engine behaviors
Authors: Khandal Sanjeevakumar Veerasangappa , Ağbulut Ümit , Afzal Asif , Sharifpur Mohsen , Abdul Razak Kaladgi , Khalilpoor Nima
Published: January 2022

Compression ignition (CI) engines have good performance but more exhaust emissions. Dual fuel (DF) engines have better performance and lower emissions compared to CI mode. Also, the scarcity of fossil fuels made the researchers to find alternative fuels to power CI engines. Therefore, the present work aims to use hydrogen (H2) and honne oil biodiesel (BHO) to investigate the performance of CI engines in DF mode. Also, it aims to compare the performance of CI engines in various DF modes, namely induction, manifold injection, and port injection. First, the CI engine was fuelled completely by diesel fuel and BHO. The data were gathered when the engine ran at a constant engine speed of 1500 rpm and at 80% load. Second, the CI engine was operated in various DF modes and data were generated. CI engine operation in DF mode was smooth with biodiesel and H2. The brake thermal efficiency (BTE) of 32% and 31.1% was reported with diesel and biodiesel, respectively, for manifold injection due to low energy content and high viscosity of biodiesel. These values were higher than CI mode and other DF modes. Fuel substitution percentage for DF manifold injection was 60% and 57% with diesel and biodiesel, respectively. Smoke, hydrocarbon (HC), and carbon monoxide (CO) emissions were lower than conventional mode, but a reverse trend was observed for oxides of nitrogen (NOx) emissions. Heat release rate (HRR) and peak pressure (PP) were higher than conventional mode due to the fast combustion rate of hydrogen. The shortest ignition delay (ID) period was noticed for traditional diesel fuel, but it was longer for BHO biodiesel due to its higher viscosity and lower cetane number. On the contrary, the presence of hydrogen led to an increment in the combustion duration (CD) owing to the scarcity of oxygen in CD. Consequently, the paper clearly showed that the injection way of hydrogen plays a respectable role in the engine characteristics.
A critical evaluation of 42, large‐scale, science and technology foresight Delphi surveys
Authors: Belton Ian , Cuhls Kerstin , Wright George
Published: January 2022

Large‐scale Delphi surveys on technology foresight started in the 1960s and involve an average of about 2000 participants answering, potentially, up to about 450 items. This contrasts sharply with the participation and content of the more common, smaller‐scale Delphi surveys. Previously, Belton et al. developed “six steps” to underpin a well‐founded and defensible Delphi process and we apply these steps in a novel evaluation of the quality of 42 large‐scale technology foresight surveys. Using a detailed analysis of two exemplar studies and a content analysis of all 42 surveys, we explore whether such surveys differ systematically from “traditional” smaller‐scale Delphi surveys and, if so, why this may be and what it may mean for the quality of data produced. We conclude that there are some problematic issues within these surveys—to do with (i) data quality in both the numerical summarizing of participant's between‐round feedback and in the reporting of final round numerical responses, (ii) the infrequent elicitation of rationales to justify participants' proffered numerical responses, and, when such rationales are elicited, (iii) the between‐round summary and presentation of the rationales. We speculate on the reasons for these design differences in the extant large‐scale surveys and conclude that extra‐survey political influences, such as differing objectives and the need to demonstrate wide‐ranging expert participation, may be the underlying cause. We conclude with considerations and recommendations for the design of future large‐scale Delphi surveys to enable the underlying process to become better‐founded and more defensible to procedural evaluation.
Synthesis of (Di)thiahelicenes and Dithiophenohelicenes by [2+2+2] Cycloisomerization of Alkynes
Authors: Palata Ondřej , Andronova Angelina , Šámal Michal , Nejedlý Jindřich , Rybáček Jiří , Buděšínský Miloš , Bednárová Lucie , Pospíšil Lubomír , Císařová Ivana , Starý Ivo , Stará Irena G.
Published: January 2022

A series of inherently chiral (di)thiahelicenes/dithiophenohelicenes containing 5, 6, 9 or 11 (hetero)cycles in their helical backbone with thiophene subunit(s) embedded in it or annulated to its periphery were uniformly synthesized by intramolecular alkyne [2+2+2] cycloisomerization. Their structural, chemical and physicochemical properties such as crystal packing, oxidation, barrier to racemization, spontaneous thin film transformation or electrochemical behavior were studied and compared with the respective properties of the parent all‐carbon helicenes and dibenzohelicenes.
Sclerostin Protects Against Vascular Calcification Development in Mice
Authors: De Maré Annelies , Opdebeeck Britt , Neven Ellen , D’Haese Patrick C. , Verhulst Anja
Published: January 2022

Sclerostin is a negative regulator of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling and is, therefore, an important inhibitor of bone formation and turnover. Because ectopic vascular calcification develops in a similar way to bone formation, one might reasonably attribute a role to sclerostin in this pathological process. Ectopic calcification, especially vascular calcification, importantly contributes to mortality in elderly and patients with diabetes, osteoporosis, chronic kidney disease (CKD), and hypertension. The central players in this ectopic calcification process are the vascular smooth muscle cells that undergo dedifferentiation and thereby acquire characteristics of bonelike cells. Therefore, we hypothesize that depletion/deactivation of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling inhibitor sclerostin may promote the development of ectopic calcifications through stimulation of bone-anabolic effects at the level of the arteries. We investigated the role of sclerostin (encoded by the Sost gene) during vascular calcification by using either Sost−/− mice or anti-sclerostin antibody. Sost−/− and wild-type (WT) mice (C57BL/6J background) were administered an adenine-containing diet to promote the development of CKD-induced vascular calcification. Calcifications developed more extensively in the cardiac vessels of adenine-exposed Sost−/− mice, compared to adenine-exposed WT mice. This could be concluded from the cardiac calcium content as well as from cardiac tissue sections on which calcifications were visualized histochemically. In a second experiment, DBA/2J mice were administered a warfarin-containing diet to induce vascular calcifications in the absence of CKD. Here, warfarin exposure led to significantly increased aortic and renal tissue calcium content. Calcifications, which were present in the aortic medial layer and renal vessels, were significantly more pronounced when warfarin treatment was combined with anti-sclerostin antibody treatment. This study demonstrates a protective effect of sclerostin during vascular calcification. © 2022 The Authors. Journal of Bone and Mineral Research published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).

Abstract

Sclerostin, a well-known inhibitor of physiological bone formation, protects against vascular calcification development in mice. A significantly increased calcium content was observed in: (i) cardiac vessels of Sost−/− mice versus WT mice, after induction of renal failure and (ii) aorta and renal vessels of anti-sclerostin antibody-treated versus vehicle-treated mice.
Persistence of a youth organizing initiative: Cultivating and sustaining a leadership development ecosystem
Authors: Christens Brian D. , Morgan Kathryn Y. , Cosio Melissa , Dolan Tom , Aguayo Rocio
Published: January 2022

Youth organizing can generate tangible improvements in community conditions and institutions while simultaneously promoting positive development among participants and contributing to broader movements for social change. Yet, organizing initiatives must navigate an array of challenges as they seek to continuously engage new leaders to build on the accomplishments of their predecessors who are aging out of youth organizing. This study examines the leadership development ecosystem enabling an exemplary youth organizing initiative to persist, expand, and enhance its impact over 15 years. Analyses of interviews with 19 adolescent and young adult participants reveal that engagement often begins before high school and continues long afterward, with more established older leaders playing a variety of roles to engage younger participants and support their development as leaders. Findings suggest practical strategies that can enhance the sustainability of these initiatives, which are key to the development and exercise of youth power for social justice.
Impact of Covid‐19 on dental hygiene educators: A national survey
Authors: Arnett Michelle C. , Ramaswamy Vidya , Evans Michael D. , Rulli Danielle
Published: January 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of the Covid‐19 pandemic on dental hygiene (DH) educators’ perception of personal and professional burnout and efficacy in the online/hybrid learning environment.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study of DH faculty members from 327 United States entry level DH programs was invited to participate in this study. A 36 item survey was disseminated in Qualtricsxm March 2021. The Copenhagen Burnout Inventory was used to measure personal, work‐related, and burnout related to working with students. The Michigan Nurse Educators Sense of Efficacy for Online Teaching instrument was used to measure efficacy in online/hybrid learning.

Results

The survey had an institutional response rate of 46%. Personal burnout scores had a significantly higher mean as compared to work‐related and burnout working with students’ scores. A majority (66%) of respondents reported often feeling tired. Only personal burnout scores had a significant negative correlation with teaching efficacy scores. Administrators/program directors and full‐time faculty had significantly higher mean personal and work‐related burnout scores as compared to part‐time/adjunct clinical faculty. There were no significant differences in teaching efficacy scores by faculty position and institutional setting.

Conclusion

COVID‐19 had significant impact on full‐time DH educators’ personal and professional burnout levels. Full‐time administrators/program directors/DH educators reported higher levels of personal burnout. It seems that personal burnout has a negative relationship with teaching efficacy. Faculty position rather than institution impacted personal burnout. Despite personal and professional burnout, DH faculty reported low‐levels of burnout related to working with students.
COVID‐19 pandemic and inflammatory bowel disease from patients' perspective: A survey from COVID epicenter in India
Authors: Kale Aditya , Shinde Leela , Sundaram Sridhar , Patra Biswa R , Rao Praveen K , Irtaza Mohd , Shukla Akash
Published: January 2022

Background and Aim

The COVID pandemic and countrywide lockdown has had significant impact on patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), with delay in diagnosis, difficulty in access to healthcare and unavailability of drugs. We conducted a telephonic survey to assess this impact.

Methods

Out of 350, 302 participated in the survey. Demographic data, disease severity at the time of survey, extent of disease, details of therapy, and adherence were noted. A validated questionnaire addressing information source, perception of COVID‐19 situation, contact with healthcare, and adherence to standard precautions was administered telephonically.

Results

Out of 350 contacted patients, 302 (86.28%) patients participated in the survey. Median age of cohort was 39 years. Ulcerative colitis (UC) constituted 79%, 16% Crohn's disease (CD), and 5% IBD‐unclassified. At the time of survey, 86.98% patients with UC were in clinical remission and 75.75% of CD patients were generally well. A total of 115 (38%) cases were nonadherent to therapy due to unavailability of medicines (66.38%), financial constraints (25.21%) and inability to reach healthcare facility (3.6%). Disease flare was seen in 14.2% and correlated well with nonadherence. Existing drug therapy was switched to alternative drug in 70 (23.17%) cases due to unavailability (74%). Social media (52.3%) and television (40.4%) were the common sources of information about the pandemic. Telemedicine platforms (WhatsApp and telephone) were used by 180 (59.6%) patients for consultation with good acceptance (81.6%). 87 (28.8%) patients failed to contact healthcare. Apprehension regarding severe COVID infection was noted in 80% while 29% thought that IBD therapy could increase infection risk. Adherence to wearing mask, hand washing, and social distancing was 100%.

Conclusion

Pandemic resulted in disruption of healthcare visits and medication supply. Majority were concerned about increased risk of COVID‐19 infection and adhered to standard precautions. Mobile phone‐based formats for patient care may be an alternative due to patient acceptance and convenience.
Virologic non‐suppression and early loss to follow up among pregnant and non‐pregnant adolescents aged 15–19 years initiating antiretroviral therapy in South Africa: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Nyakato Patience , Schomaker Michael , Fatti Geoffrey , Tanser Frank , Euvrard Jonathan , Sipambo Nosisa , Fox Matthew P. , Haas Andreas D. , Yiannoutsos Constantin T. , Davies Mary‐Ann , Cornell Morna
Published: January 2022

Introduction

Older adolescents aged 15–19 years continue to have high rates of loss to follow up (LTFU), and high rates of virologic non‐suppression (VNS) compared to younger adolescents and adults. Adolescent females are at risk of pregnancy, which puts those living with HIV at a dual vulnerability. Our study assessed the factors associated with VNS and LTFU in older adolescents (including pregnant females) who initiated antiretroviral therapy (ART) in South Africa.

Methods

We included adolescents aged 15–19 years initiating ART between 2004 and 2019, with ≥ one viral load (VL) measurement between 4 and 24.5 months, and ≥ 6 months follow‐up, from six South African cohorts of the International epidemiology Databases to Evaluate AIDS‐Southern Africa (IeDEA‐SA). We defined VNS as VL ≥400 copies/ml and LTFU as not being in care for ≥180 days from ART start and not known as transferred out of the clinic or dead in the first 24 months on ART. We examined factors associated with VNS and LTFU using Fine&Gray competing risk models.

Results

We included a total of 2733 adolescents, 415 (15.2%) males, median (IQR) age at ART start of 18.6 (17.3, 19.4) years. Among females, 585/2318 (25.2%) were pregnant. Over the 24‐month follow‐up, 424 (15.5%) of all adolescents experienced VNS: range (11.1% pregnant females and 20.5% males). Over half of all adolescents were LTFU before any other event could occur. The hazard of VNS reduced with increasing age and CD4 count above 200 cells/μl at ART initiation among all adolescents having adjusted for all measured patient characteristics [adjusted sub‐distribution hazard ratio (aSHR) 19 vs. 15 years: 0.50 (95% CI: 0.36, 0.68), aSHR: >500 vs. ≤200 cells/μl: 0.22 (95% CI: 0.16, 0.31)]. The effect of CD4 count persisted in pregnant females. Increasing age and CD4 count >200 cells/μl were risk factors for LTFU among all adolescents.

Conclusions

Older adolescents had a high risk of LTFU shortly after ART start and a low risk of VNS, especially those initiating treatment during pregnancy. Interventions addressing adherence and retention should be incorporated into adolescent‐friendly services to prevent VNS and LTFU and endeavour to trace lost adolescents as soon as they are identified.
The utilization of atrial sensing dipole in single lead implantable cardioverter defibrillator for detection of new‐onset atrial high‐rate episodes or subclinical atrial fibrillation: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Pung Xuanming , Hong Daniel Zhihao , Ho Tzyy Yeou , Shen Xiayan , Tan Pei Ting , Yeo Colin , Tan Vern Hsen
Published: January 2022

This meta‐analysis aims to evaluate the performance of atrial sensing dipole in single lead implantable cardioverter defibrillator (VDD‐ICD) recipients in particular diagnosing new‐onset atrial high‐rate episodes (AHREs) defined as rate threshold of 200 beats per minute, or subclinical atrial fibrillation (SCAF) defined as device‐detected AF without symptoms. We comprehensively searched PubMed, Embase, and ClinicalTrials.gov. Studies comparing contemporary single‐ and dual‐chamber ICD (VVI‐/DDD‐ICD) versus VDD‐ICD were included. Restricted maximum likelihood method for random effect model and Mantel‐Haenszel method for fixed effect model were used to estimate the effect size of new‐onset AHREs, or SCAF detection in each group. Three prospective studies were identified and total of 991 participants were included. There were 330 (33.3%) in VDD‐ICD and 661 (66.7%) in VVI‐/DDD‐ICD. Most (78%) participants were men. Median follow‐up was from 365 days to 847 days. VDD‐ICD has a higher likelihood of detecting AHREs or SCAF as compared to VVI‐/DDD‐ICD [(OR random effect : 2.6; 95% CI: 1.2, 5.8; p = .018); I‐squared = 67.8%, p = .019]. This difference was more apparently seen in the comparison between VDD‐ICD and VVI‐ICD [(OR random effect: 3.8; 95% CI: 2.1, 6.6, p < .001), I‐squared = 0.0%, p = .518]. The result is same as fixed effect. Rate of AHREs detection observed in VDD‐ICD was not statistically different when compared to the only group with DDD‐ICD from SENSE trial. In conclusion, this meta‐analysis reveals that the use of floating atrial sensing dipole in VDD‐ICD increases the detection of new‐onset AHREs or SCAF when compared to VVI‐ICD, with similar atrial sensing performance to DDD‐ICD.
Optically pumped and matrix‐assisted anti‐Stokes Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Song Si Won , Jang Jin Il , Park Chan Ryang , Kim Hyung Min
Published: January 2022

Anti‐Stokes Raman spectroscopy is an excellent method to suppress optical backgrounds from Raman scatters and surrounding materials, even in electronic resonance conditions. The upshift of scattered light can avoid the fluorescence or phosphorescence that is usually red‐shifted with respect to the excitation wavelength. However, this method's competence is circumscribed by its low scattering efficiency, which results from an insufficient population of upper vibrational states that obey temperature‐dependent Boltzmann statistics. To overcome this limitation, we propose that the mode‐selective absorption of overtone or combination vibrations leads to enhanced anti‐Stokes Raman scattering under simultaneous optical pumping and Raman excitation. In this work, we applied near‐infrared (NIR) pumping resonant with vibrational overtones of nonfluorescent systems. Vibrationally resonant pumping is efficient for population transfer, and the excess energy is thermodynamically distributed over all fundamental vibrations. Furthermore, we present that NIR absorbing molecules can be employed as matrices to amplify anti‐Stokes Raman signals of weak scattering targets.
Transanal total mesorectal excision (TaTME) with delayed coloanal anastomosis versus TaTME with immediate coloanal anastomosis and temporary diversion in middle and low rectal cancer
Authors: Madbouly Khaled M. , Emile Sameh Hany , Gamal Abd Allah
Published: January 2022

Background

Transanal total mesorectal excision (TaTME) avoids the difficulty of laparoscopic dissection of the lower part of the rectum. The need for stoma is associated with many stoma‐related complications. The objective was to compare TaTME with immediate coloanal anastomosis and protective ileostomy (TaTME‐IA) versus Turnbull–Cutait delayed coloanal anastomosis (TaTME‐TC).

Methods

A retrospective cohort study included patients with low rectal cancer at least 1 cm above the top of the anal sphincter. Patients had either TaTME‐IA or TaTME‐TC. Primary outcome measures were anastomotic and stoma‐related complications. Secondary outcomes included rate of permanent stomas, local recurrence, continence, and quality of life (QOL).

Results

TaTME‐IA was done in 25 patients versus 20 who had TaTME‐TC. TaTME‐IA had significantly longer mean operative time (p = 0.04) and shorter length of stay (LOS) (4.5 vs. 11.4 days; p = 0.0001) compared to TaTME‐TC. Anastomotic leak was reported in two patients of TaTME‐IA versus one patient of TaTME‐TC (p = 0.77). Anastomotic stenosis was reported in one patient in each group. No significant difference between groups as regard continence, local recurrence, and QOL.

Conclusion

TaTME‐TC is a safe option that can be offered for patients with low rectal cancer who refuse or are not amenable to a temporary stoma. Anastomotic complications were similar in both groups. LOS was much longer in TaTME‐TC, however, it avoids stoma complications. Both groups had similar functional oncologic outcomes and QOL.
Early life stress and autonomic response to acute mental stress in individuals with coronary heart disease
Authors: Kim Ye Ji , Levantsevych Oleksiy M. , Elon Lisa , Lewis Tené T. , Suglia Shakira F. , Bremner J. Douglas , Quyyumi Arshed A. , Pearce Bradley , Raggi Paolo , Vaccarino Viola , Shah Amit J.
Published: January 2022

Early life stress (ELS) has been associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. We examined whether ELS was associated with autonomic function and stress reactivity among individuals with coronary heart disease (CHD). We included patients with stable CHD from two parallel studies, the Mental Stress Ischemia Prognosis Study (MIPS) and the Myocardial Infarction and Mental Stress Study 2 (MIMS2), and assessed ELS using the Early Trauma Inventory–Self‐Report–Short Form. Participants underwent a laboratory‐based mental stress task while undergoing ambulatory electrocardiographic monitoring. We used multivariate linear regression models to estimate the associations between ELS and heart rate variability (HRV; low frequency [LF], high frequency [HF], and LF and HF [LH] ratio). The analytic sample included 405 MIPS and 284 MIMS2 participants. Most participants endorsed at least one experience of ELS (92.2%). Although we did not observe associations between ELS and HRV outcomes in the overall sample, ELS was associated with lower LH ratio HRV during recovery in the posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) subgroup, ELS x PTSD interaction, p = .041. In the MIMS2 subgroup, ELS was associated with lower resting period LF HRV,  = −0.16 ln ms2; 95% CI [−0.31, −0.02]. Exposure to physical trauma was associated with decreased HF HRV overall reactivity only among participants with high to moderate depressive symptoms,  = −0.52 ln ms2 vs.  = 0.01 ln ms2, p = .013. Overall, heterogeneous associations between ELS and HRV emerged, suggesting the need for additional research regarding longer‐term ambulatory HRV.
Hydrogel Antifouling Coating with Highly Adhesive Ability via Lipophilic Monomer
Authors: Dong Lei , He Guangling , Dai Shuaishuai , Zhao Haizhou , Yu Liangmin , Wang Li
Published: January 2022

The poor adhesion of hydrogel antifouling materials on substrates limits their application in marine antifouling. From the perspective of practical application, a lipophilic monomer tackifying strategy is proposed, in which hydrogel coatings can be firmly adhered to substrates very simply. Hydrogel prepolymers containing lipophilic monomers are adhered to the substrate surface after crosslinking, and hydrogel coatings are obtained after drying and absorbing water. The experimental results show that the molar content of lipophilic monomers in the hydrogel reached 42% and can significantly improve its adhesion on the organic substrate. The highly adhesive ability of the hydrogel manifest as its long‐term no‐shedding ability in the experimental results of static seawater immersion panels, dynamic rotating seawater environments (80 revolutions min−1), and testing‐panels in real marine (150 days‐no‐shedding). A powerful supplement for understanding the direct adhesion of hydrogel coatings to the substrate is provided by this strategy. These hydrogels have a good effect on inhibiting the adhesion of proteins and microalgae and show significant antifouling performance in testing‐panels in real marine environments, with great potential for marine antifouling applications.
Seasonal Trends in Groundfish Discards on Georges Bank: Implications for Adaptive Quota Management
Authors: Keyser Freya , Sameoto Jessica A. , Keith David M.
Published: January 2022

For fisheries to be sustainable, management should account for all major sources of fishing mortality. On the Canadian side of Georges Bank, landings and discards of transboundary stocks of Atlantic Cod Gadus morhua, Haddock Melanogrammus aeglefinus, and Yellowtail Flounder Limanda ferruginea are monitored against quotas that are shared by the Canadian groundfish and scallop (sea scallop Placopecten magellanicus) fisheries to limit fishing mortality. The shared quota allocations are managed using an adaptive quota management system; quota can be redistributed between the fisheries during the season to maximize fishing opportunities, while still respecting the overall catch limits. However, the redistribution relies on estimates of the total end-of-year discards of Atlantic Cod, Haddock, and Yellowtail Flounder from the scallop fishery. Here, we evaluated and compared two approaches for projecting end-of-year discards within season: an empirical method based on scallop fishery landings and a seasonal modeling approach. Seasonal trends in discards were identified, with discards of all three groundfish species highest in April or May. The seasonal models out-performed the empirical landings-based projection method, and our results demonstrate that accounting for seasonal patterns in discards better informs risk-based fishery management decisions.
Efficacy of percutaneous and transcutaneous posterior tibial nerve stimulation on idiopathic overactive bladder and interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Ghavidel‐Sardsahra Amirhossein , Ghojazadeh Morteza , Rahnama'I Mohammad Sajjad , Naseri Amirreza , Yazdandoost Shahabodin , Khezerloo Taha , Seyedi‐Sahebari Sepideh , Hosseinifard Hossein , Vahed Nafiseh , Mostafaei Hadi , Salehi‐Pourmehr Hanieh , Hajebrahimi Sakineh
Published: January 2022

Objectives

Percutaneous and transcutaneous posterior tibial nerve stimulation (PTNS and TTNS) showed a promising effect on overactive bladder (OAB) and interstitial cystitis/painful bladder syndrome. We aimed to give a systematic review and meta‐analysis on the efficacy and safety of these therapeutic methods as well.

Methods

We searched studies available on PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, Scopus, Web of Science, and ProQuest on March 31, 2021, to find both published and unpublished studies. The retrieved articles were screened by two independent researchers and then the selected studies were critically appraised by Cochrane risk‐of‐bias tool for randomized trials, and Joanna Briggs Institute's checklist for quasi‐experimental studies. Finally, the results of studies were synthesized using Review Manager (RevMan) 5.4 statistical software when the data were homogenous. The meta‐analysis was performed by calculating the effect size (mean difference) and their 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Results

Of the total 3194 publications, 68 studies were included in our qualitative evaluation and 9 studies (11 trials) in the quantitative stage. When TTNS or PTNS were compared to sham, placebo, no treatment, or conservative management, a decrease in frequency of urination was observed in both TTNS (mean difference [MD]: −3.18, 95% CI: −4.42 to −1.94, and p < 0.00001), and PTNS (MD: −2.84, 95% CI: −4.22 to −1.45, and p < 0.00001), and overall TTNS or PTNS (MD: −2.95, 95% CI: −4.01 to −1.88, and p < 0.00001). Significant improvements in mean voiding volume (MVV) and decreasing nocturia were also observed.

Conclusions

Nerve stimulations either PTNS or TTNS appear to be effective interventions in treating refractory idiopathic OAB in terms of daily voiding frequency, MVV, urgency episodes, and nighttime voiding frequency. However, our result did not show any improvement in terms of urinary incontinence, postvoid residual volume or urge incontinence, and maximum cystometric capacity which emphasized the efficacy of these modalities on dry‐OAB rather than wet‐OAB.
Bristol UTraQ: A proposed system for scoring the technical quality of urodynamic traces
Authors: Gammie Andrew , Hashim Hashim , Abrams Paul
Published: January 2022

Aim

To develop and test a scoring system for the technical quality of a urodynamic trace

Methods

Rasch analysis was used to select the most discriminating questions relating to good urodynamic practices. The questions were taken from International Continence Society standard documents and tested on 60 traces of varying quality and from different sources.

Results

Twenty‐five questions were selected by this process. These were tested with 10 traces by seven scorers, and with 60 traces by a single scorer. A pass quality score of 75% resulted in good discrimination between good and poor traces. Further editing and clarification resulted in a final score sheet of 23 Yes/No questions.

Conclusion

A proposed scoring system, “Bristol UTraQ,” for the technical quality of urodynamic traces has been developed and tested. We suggest a score above 75% indicates acceptable trace technical quality. High technical quality is the essential first step in ensuring that urodynamic studies can answer the urodynamic questions for every patient. Plans for further validation are outlined.