bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of Healthcare Professional’s Knowledge and Attitude towards Telemedicine in Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh
Authors: Dongre Prerana , Nimmagadda Aparna , Kulkarni Meenal , Jadhav Shivani
Published: November 2021

Introduction: In India modern service delivery technologies like telemedicine are emerging promptly in healthcare sector. Successful implementation and utilization of novel technology hinges on several significant aspects together with knowledge, and attitude regarding technology and its user operating environment.

Aim: Primary objective of this study was to determine the knowledge and attitude of health professionals towards telemedicine in Vijayawada division of Andhra Pradesh state of India.

Methods: A randomized survey was conducted among healthcare professionals. A total of 123 respondents from medical and para-medical departments have participated in the study. A well-defined questionnaire was utilized to determine the knowledge and attitude of respondents about telemedicine. Data is entered and analysed using MS Excel 365 and SPSS 20.  Pearson Correlation test was used to test the correlation between knowledge and attitude and Chi-Square test to assess the significant differences amongst gender and respondent’s knowledge, and between gender and attitude of respondents about telemedicine. < 0.05 was considered as significant P-value.

Results: 52.57% respondents had good knowledge level, of which 54.34% were males, there was no significant difference between respondent’s gender and their level knowledge with respect to telemedicine. Regarding attitude towards telemedicine 57.45% respondents had positive attitude towards telemedicine. Also, there was no significant difference between gender and attitude of respondents towards telemedicine. The Pearson Correlation value 0.699 indicates that a positive correlation exists between Knowledge and Attitude.

Conclusion: Outcomes of the analysis indicate that though the respondent’s knowledge about telemedicine is average. Majority of respondents had positive attitude about telemedicine. COVID 19 has brought more light on telemedicine, and at this period it is very important to consider creating awareness and training the users as abundant knowledge and optimistic attitude towards the technology are significant factors to for any healthcare professional to implement and practice telemedicine.
Effect of workplace dietary intervention on salt intake and sodium-to-potassium ratio of Japanese employees: A quasi-experimental study
Authors: Sakaguchi Keiko , Takemi Yukari , Hayashi Fumi , Koiwai Kaori , Nakamura Masakazu
Published: November 2021

Objectives

Excess salt intake is a major risk factor for hypertension and cardiovascular disease. Modifying workplace environments has been recognized to be important for reducing salt intake. However, studies examining the effects of improving the workplace environment regarding salt reduction are limited. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of workplace dietary intervention on employees’ salt intake and sodium-to-potassium (Na/K) ratio.

Methods

A quasi-experimental study was conducted. Two small business establishments in Saitama Prefecture, Japan, were allocated as the intervention (n = 69) and comparison (n = 68) workplaces, respectively. The 1-year intervention involving healthy lunch and nutrition education was implemented in the intervention workplace. Spot urine samples, physical assessments, and self-administered questionnaire data were collected at baseline, 6 months, and 1 year after the start of the intervention. Analysis of covariance was conducted to investigate differences in the salt intake or Na/K ratio between the study workplaces at year 1. Educational status and rotating work schedules were included as covariates.

Results

Salt intake in the intervention workplace decreased significantly from 10.7 to 9.3 g (−1.4 g change; 95% confidence interval [CI]: “−2.4, −0.5”). The adjusted difference in changes in salt intake between workplaces was statistically significant (−3.7 g change; 95% CI: “−5.2, −2.3”). Although no significant change was observed in the Na/K ratio in the intervention workplace (3.37–3.08; −0.29 change; 95% CI: “−0.59, 0.01”), the adjusted difference in changes between the workplaces was statistically significant (−0.60 change; 95% CI: “−1.03, −0.17”).

Conclusions

Providing healthy lunch and nutrition education may be effective approaches to reduce employees’ salt intake and Na/K ratio.
Transcriptome analysis of collagen VI‐related muscular dystrophy muscle biopsies
Authors: Guadagnin Eleonora , Mohassel Payam , Johnson Kory R. , Yang Lin , Santi Mariarita , Uapinyoying Prech , Dastgir Jahannaz , Hu Ying , Dillmann Allissa , Cookson Mark R. , Foley A. Reghan , Bönnemann Carsten G.
Published: November 2021

Objective

To define the transcriptomic changes responsible for the histologic alterations in skeletal muscle and their progression in collagen VI‐related muscular dystrophy (COL6‐RD).

Methods

COL6‐RD patient muscle biopsies were stratified into three groups based on the overall level of pathologic severity considering degrees of fibrosis, muscle fiber atrophy, and fatty replacement of muscle tissue. Using microarray and RNA‐Seq, we then performed global gene expression profiling on the same muscle biopsies and compared their transcriptome with age‐ and sex‐matched controls.

Results

COL6‐RD muscle biopsy transcriptomes as a group revealed prominent upregulation of muscle extracellular matrix component genes and the downregulation of skeletal muscle and mitochondrion‐specific genes. Upregulation of the TGFβ pathway was the most conspicuous change across all biopsies and was fully evident even in the mildest/earliest histological group. There was no difference in the overall transcriptional signature between the different histologic groups but polyserial analysis identified relative changes along with COL6‐RD histological severity.

Interpretation

Overall, our study establishes the prominent dysregulation of extracellular matrix genes, TGFβ signaling, and its downstream cellular pathways at the transcriptomic level in COL6‐RD muscle.
All‐3D‐Printed, Flexible, and Hybrid Wearable Bioelectronic Tactile Sensors Using Biocompatible Nanocomposites for Health Monitoring
Authors: Yi Qian , Najafikhoshnoo Sahar , Das Prativa , Noh Sangjun , Hoang Emily , Kim Taeil , Esfandyarpour Rahim
Published: November 2021

Physiological signals contain a wealth of personal health information which needs continuous monitoring for early detection of disease‐induced physiological irregularities and can be established as a potential approach to developing personalized healthcare devices. However, it is restricted by the lack of cost‐effective, precise, sensitive, and biocompatible flexible wearable sensors that are rapidly, reliably, and cost‐effectively are integratable. Here the work is reported on the development of novel, multimaterial, and multilayer all‐3D‐printed nanocomposite‐based (M2A3DNC) microengineered, flexible, hybrid, and soft wearable pressure sensors to record sensitive and multiple physiological signals for real‐time human health monitoring. By applying the intrinsic property of extrusion 3D printing, the conductive layers as well as the hemicylinder microstructure dielectric layer are directly 3D printed by optimizing the moving path of a nozzle, with air voids formation after assembling to enhance the compressibility of the active layer in our sensors. The microengineered sensors exhibit a very low detection limit, rapid response time, a repeatable and reproducible mechanical property with matching modulus with human skin (0.57–3.7 MPa) while offering intimate contact to the skin, excellent biocompatibility, and high mechanical compressibility in the active layer which leads to significantly high sensitivity. Thus, the proposed 3D printed cost‐effective M2A3DNC sensors pave a novel path to develop a highly compressible microstructured device with high sensitivity and low detection limit in a time‐effective manner with demonstrated application in real‐time health monitoring and envision further applicability in robotics tactile sensing interfaces.
Highly Selective High‐Speed Circularly Polarized Photodiodes Based on π‐Conjugated Polymers
Authors: Ward Matthew D. , Wade Jessica , Shi Xingyuan , Nelson Jenny , Campbell Alasdair J. , Fuchter Matthew J.
Published: November 2021

Chiral π‐conjugated molecular systems that are intrinsically sensitive to the handedness of circularly polarized (CP) light potentially allow for miniaturized, low‐cost CP detection devices. Such devices promise to transform several technologies, including biosensing, quantum optics, and communication of data encrypted by exploiting the spin angular momentum of light. Here a simple, bilayer organic photodiode (CP OPD) comprising an achiral π‐conjugated polymer–chiral additive blend as the electron donor layer and an achiral C60 electron acceptor layer is realized. These devices exhibit considerable photocurrent dissymmetry gph, with absolute values as high as 0.85 and dark currents as low as 10 pA. Impressively, they showcase a linear dynamic range of 80 dB, and rise and fall times of ≈7 µs, which significantly outperforms all previously reported CP selective photodetectors. Mechanistically, it is shown that the gph is sensitive to the thickness of both the chiral donor and achiral acceptor layers and that a trade‐off exists between the external quantum efficiency and gph. The fast‐switching speeds of these devices, coupled with their large dynamic range and highly selective response to CP light, opens up the possibility of their direct application in CP sensing and optical communications.
Evidence linking life‐form to a major shift in diversification rate inCrassula
Authors: Lu Meng , Fradera‐Soler Marc , Forest Félix , Barraclough Timothy G. , Grace Olwen M.
Published: November 2021

Premise

Plants have evolved different ecological strategies in response to environmental challenges, and a higher lability of such strategies is more common in plant groups that adapt to various niches.Crassula(Crassulaceae), occurring in varied mesic to xeric habitats, exhibits a remarkable diversity of life‐forms. However, whether any particular life‐form trait has shaped species diversification inCrassulahas remained unexplored. This study aims to investigate diversification patterns withinCrassulaand identify potential links to its life‐form evolution.

Methods

A phylogenetic tree of 140Crassulataxa was reconstructed using plastid and nuclear loci and dated based on the nuclear DNA information only. We reconstructed ancestral life‐form characters to estimate the evolutionary trends of ecophysiological change, and subsequently estimated net diversification rates. Multiple diversification models were applied to examine the association between certain life‐forms and net diversification rates.

Results

Our findings confirm a radiation withinCrassulain the last 10 million years. A configuration of net diversification rate shifts was detected, which coincides with the emergence of a speciose lineage during the late Miocene. The results of ancestral state reconstruction demonstrate a high lability of life‐forms inCrassula, and the trait‐dependent diversification analyses revealed that the increased diversification is strongly associated with a compact growth form.

Conclusions

Transitions between life‐forms inCrassulaseem to have driven adaptation and shaped diversification of this genus across various habitats. The diversification patterns we inferred are similar to those observed in other major succulent lineages, with the most‐speciose clades originating in the late Miocene.
Pulmonary vascular resistance and compliance in individuals with trisomy 18
Authors: Hatai Eriko , Muneuchi Jun , Sugitani Yuichiro , Doi Hirohito , Furuta Takashi , Ezaki Hiroki , Kobayashi Masaru , Sato Rie , Watanabe Mamie
Published: November 2021

Individuals with trisomy 18 (T18) usually have congenital heart disease, often with pulmonary hypertension, which is associated with poor outcomes. This study aimed to explore the characteristics of pulmonary circulation including pulmonary vascular resistance (Rp) and compliance (Cp) among them. We retrospectively reviewed cardiac catheterization data in subjects with T18, trisomy 21 (T21), and without chromosomal anomaly (control group) who were referred due to heart failure associated with ventricular septal defect between 2000 and 2020. Pulmonary hemodynamic parameters including Rp and Cp were compared between these groups. We studied 20 subjects with T18, 88 subjects with T21, and 240 control subjects. There was no significant difference in age (T18: 4.6 [3.0–6. 9] vs. T21: 2.8 [1.9–4.0] vs. control: 2.9 [1.6–3.2] months, p = 0.06) and mean pulmonary arterial pressure (T18: 41 [33–49] vs. T21: 35 [30–41] vs. control: 36 [28–43] mmHg, p = 0.121) between the groups. The pulmonary to systemic blood flow ratio (Qp/Qs) (p = 0.983), Rp (p = 0.449), and Cp (p = 0.195) did not differ between T18 and control groups. However, Qp/Qs and Cp in T18 group were significantly greater than that in T21 group (T18: Qp/Qs: 3.4 [2.3–5.2] vs. T: 21 2.3 [1.7–3.7], p = 0.001. Cp: 3.5 [2.3–5.5] vs. 2.3 [1.6–3.1] mmHg/mL/m2, p = 0.007), while Rp was identical between the groups (T18: 2.0 [1.6–3.3] vs. T21: 2.3 [1.7–3.7], p = 0.386). The pulmonary circulation in T18 subjects differed from that observed in T21 subjects, and identical to that observed in control subjects. Pulmonary hypertension is expected to be normalized after reasonable corrective surgery in T18 patients with congenital heart disease.
Fabrication of an novel NiCo‐based bimetallic hydroxide encapsulated with polyphosphazene with simultaneously improved the flame retardancy and smoke suppression for polypropylene
Authors: Tian Xian‐Yao , Xu Sheng , Wu Kun , Zeng Hong‐Yan , Hu Jie , Guo Yi‐Hui
Published: November 2021

The polyphosphazene (PZN) with dual functions of “surface modifier” and “flame‐retarded synergistic agent” was introduced as the “shell” in order to improve the compatibility and flame retardancy property of NiCo‐based bimetallic hydroxide (NiCo‐BH). In this study, a novel core‐shell nanostructures flame retardants (PZN@NiCo‐BH) was synthesized, the resulting PZN@NiCo‐BH was further incorporated into PP to investigate the mechanical property, flame retardancy and smoke suppression performance. Chemical structure and morphology of PZN@NiCo‐BH were characterized by XRD, FT‐IR, SEM, TEM, WCA and TG‐DTG, and the results have shown the successful preparation of the well‐designed PZN@NiCo‐BH. Moreover, LOI, UL‐94 and cone calorimetry measurements results further confirmed the superb flame retardancy and smoke suppression of the synthesized PP/PZN@NiCo‐BH composites with a LOI value of 29.5% in the UL‐94 V‐0 rating, and 56.3% reduction in total smoke production (TSP). Meanwhile, based on the analysis of the combustion residues, possible mechanism of flame retardancy was also proposed.
Study on ethanol resistance stability and adhesion properties of polyacrylate latex for PE or BOPP film inks
Authors: Yu Shan , Du Ying , Chen Yongming , Zhang Xinyi , Li Xiaoyu , Wang Haiqiao
Published: November 2021

Waterborne inks based on the polyacrylate latex typically suffer from poor ethanol resistance and low adhesion on the PE or BOPP films. In this contribution, self‐crosslinkable polyacrylate latex binders with core‐shell structure and diacetone acrylamide (DAAM)/adipic acid dihydrazide (ADH) crosslinking agent for the application in the PE (polyethylene) or BOPP (Biaxially oriented polypropylene) film inks were synthesized. The effect of DAAM distribution in latex particles on ethanol resistance stability and the adhesion on the PE and BOPP thin films of the latexes and the corresponding inks was studied. Also, two functional monomers, isobornyl acrylate (IBOA) and acrylamide (AM) were introduced into the polyacrylate, respectively, to investigate their effect on the adhesion of the latexes and the inks on the PE and BOPP films. The results demonstrated that the more DAAM distributed in the core layer of the latex particles, the better the ethanol resistance, but the weaker the initial adhesion on the BOPP and PE thin films and the lower crosslinking degree of the latexes and the relative inks. However, the difference in cross‐linking degree and adhesion between the latex film with DAAM located within the shell part and that of DAAM located in the shell part keeps reducing with the prolongation of film‐forming time. Thus, when half of the DAAM is in the shell layer of latex particles, the latexes and the corresponding inks possess a balanced comprehensive property. The introduction of IBOA into polyacrylate is beneficial for improving the adhesion on both the BOPP and PE films of the inks due to the reduced surface tension of the latex. However, AM is only effective on the PE film, which may be due to the structural similarity of AM to erucate amide and oleate amide contained in the PE film, improving interaction between ink and the PE film.
Global dissipativity and adaptive synchronization for fractional‐order time‐delayed genetic regulatory networks
Authors: Zhang Zizhen , Zhang Weishi , Anbalagan Pratap , Arjunan Mani Mallika
Published: November 2021

This manuscript examines global dissipativity and synchronization criteria for time‐delayed fractional‐order gene regulatory networks (FGRNs). The Lyapunov stability theory is used to examine a class of FGRNs with delay arguments that are inspired by the integer‐order delayed gene regulatory network model. Some sufficient criteria are established using the fractional‐order comparison principle and stability theorem for fractional‐order time‐delayed systems to ensure the global dissipativity solution of FGRNs with both feedback regulation and translation time delays. Furthermore, for FGRNs, the global asymptotic synchronization condition is accomplished by constructing an adaptive delayed feedback control method for the master–slave system. Finally, two numerical examples are provided to demonstrate the applicability and superiority of the conclusions obtained.
Multifrequency study of gigahertz‐peaked spectrum sources with RATAN‐600
Authors: Sotnikova Yulia , Mufakharov Timur , Mingaliev Marat , Mikhailov Alexander
Published: November 2021

We report the radio continuum properties for several samples of peaked spectrum (PS) radio sources. Broadband spectra of the objects were analyzed using the RATAN‐600 six‐frequency (1.2–22 GHz) observations and available literature data, obtained on a time scale of 20–30 years. We discuss statistical differences in radio properties for several AGN types with peaked spectra and focus on PS quasars at high redshifts (). We confirm that a relatively small fraction (1–2%) of bright PS sources can be considered genuine gigahertz‐peaked spectrums (GPSs) when they have been monitored densely and for a long time. The contamination of GPS source samples by blazars is getting stronger as the redshift increases, and we confirm that it is underestimated due to lack of systematic multifrequency observations.
Aligning Quality Assurance Requirements and Water Quality Monitoring Goals
Authors: Eaton Andy , Burlingame Gary
Published: November 2021

Key Takeaways

Increasingly rigid quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) requirements can negatively affect protection of public health for treatment technique rules (TTRs).

Hold times for chlorine and pH could be lengthened using a data quality objective (DQO) approach.

Parameters that monitor process control need to be better balanced regarding the desire for more robust monitoring and the need for more defensible data.

Significant conflicts arise between QA/QC requirements and water quality protection, and use of DQOs could help realign TTR method with purpose.
Water Consumption and Utility Revenues at the Start of a Pandemic: Insights From 11 Utilities
Authors: Smull Erika , Eastman Lucas , Patterson Lauren , Doyle Martin
Published: November 2021

Key Takeaways

Eleven utilities from across the United States were studied to understand the pandemic's effects on water consumption and utility revenues.

Most utilities in the study saw an overall increase in water consumption with a rise in residential demand that offset declines in nonresidential demand.

Most utilities in the study experienced increased revenues in 2020 compared with previous years, largely due to rate increases, inclining block rates, and an unusually warm summer.

Water utilities’ ability to adjust to fluctuating demand and changing revenue patterns is a testament to their sound financial practices.
The pncA gene mutations of Mycobacterium tuberculosis in multidrug‐resistant tuberculosis
Authors: Mahmood Nasir , Bhatti Sadia , Abbas Shahzada Nadeem , Shahid Saman , Nasir Sarah Bushra
Published: November 2021

The pncA gene encodes pyrazinamidase enzyme which converts drug pyrazinamide to active form pyrazinoic acid, but mutations in this gene can prevent enzyme activity which leads to pyrazinamide resistance. The cross‐sectional study was carried out during 2016–2017 for 12 months. The purpose of the study was to detect mutation at codon 12 and codon 85 in the pncA gene in local multidrug‐resistant tuberculosis (MDR‐TB) patients by developing a simple molecular test so that disease could be detected timely in the local population. DNA extracted from sputum‐cultured samples from MDR‐TB patients and subjected to semi‐multiplex allele‐specific PCR by using self‐designed primers against the pncA gene. Among 75 samples, 53 samples were subjected to molecular analysis based on purified DNA quantity and quality. The primers produced 250 and 480 bp fragments, indicating the mutations at codon 12 (aspartate to alanine) and codon 85 (leucine to proline) respectively. MDR‐TB was more common in the age group 21–40 years. Fifty‐seven percent of samples (n = 30) were found positive for pncA mutations, whereas 43% of samples (n = 23) showed negative results. Thirteen percent of samples (n = 4) had mutations at codon 12 in which aspartate was converted to alanine, and they produced an amplified product of 480 bp. Eighty‐seven percent of samples (n = 26) had mutations at codon 85 in which leucine was converted to proline and amplified product size was 250 bp. The mutations were simple nucleotide substitutions. The prevalence of mutations in which leucine was substituted by proline was higher than the mutations in which aspartate was substituted by alanine. A high prevalence of substitution mutation (CTG → CCG; leucine to proline) was detected in MDR‐TB cases. Earlier detection of MDR‐TB via an effective molecular diagnostic method can control the MDR tuberculosis spread in the population.
The University of California at Los Angeles‐Young Autism Project: A systematic review of replication studies
Authors: Nicolosi Michael , Dillenburger Karola
Published: November 2021

The University of California at Los Angeles‐Young Autism Project (UCLA‐YAP) provides one of the best known and most researched comprehensive applied behavior analysis‐based intervention models for young children on the autism spectrum. This paper reports a systematic literature review of replication studies over more than 30 years. The data show that the relatively high‐intensity UCLA‐YAP model can be greatly beneficial for children on the autism spectrum, particularly with regards to their cognitive functioning and adaptive behavior. This review concludes that, while more research is always welcome, the impact of the UCLA‐YAP model on autism interventions is justified by more than 30 years of outcome evidence.
Multiagent evacuation framework for a virtual fire emergency scenario based on generative adversarial imitation learning
Authors: Zhou Wen , Jiang Wenying , Jie Biao , Bian Weixin
Published: November 2021

One of the most common solutions for the prevention of fire accidents is to conduct extensive fire evacuation drills in crowded places. However, there are multiple salient advantages to using virtual reality technology to simulate emergency solutions, for instance, saving costs and greatly decreasing uncertain risks or accidents. Therefore, in this article, a multiagent evacuation framework for complex virtual fire scenarios is proposed and effectively used to simulate a multiagent evacuation procedure to approximate the goal of fire drills in a less costly manner. Specifically, the concept of a multihierarchy agent group model is proposed; that is, the evacuation of multiple agents is separated into leader‐follower and freedom modes. Additionally, several complex actions of individual humans in actual fire drills are fully considered, and a multiaction agent schema is presented to characterize the associated real effects. In addition, generative adversarial imitation learning is adopted to obtain the evacuation path of the leader‐agent by training numerous learning epochs. Finally, extensive experiments are conducted to validate the feasibility of our proposed method. The results show that the proposed method is superior to other methods and that it realistically and reasonably shows the procedure of multiagent evacuation in complex fire emergency scenarios.
Iterative Alanine Scanning Mutagenesis Confers Aromatic Ketone Specificity and Activity of L‐Amine Dehydrogenases
Authors: Mu Xiaoqing , Wu Tao , Mao Yong , Zhao Yilei , Xu Yan , Nie Yao
Published: November 2021

Direct reductive amination of prochiral ketones catalyzed by amine dehydrogenases is attractive in the synthesis of active pharmaceutical ingredients. Here, we report the protein engineering of L‐Bacillus cereus amine dehydrogenase to allow reactivity on synthetically useful aromatic ketone substrates using an iterative, multiple‐site alanine scanning mutagenesis approach. Mutagenesis libraries based on molecular docking, iterative alanine scanning, and double‐proximity filter approach significantly expand the scope of active pharmaceutical ingredients relevant building blocks. The eventual quintuple mutant (A115G/T136A/L42A/V296A/V293A) showed reactivity toward aromatic ketones 12 a (5‐phenyl‐pentan‐2‐one) and 13 a (6‐phenyl‐hexan‐2‐one), which have not been reported to serve as targets of reductive amination by currently available amine dehydrogenases. Docking simulation and tunnel analysis provided valuable insights into the source of the acquired specificity and activity.
Anode Electrodeposition of Fe/Fe3O4 composite on Carbon Fabric as a Negative Electrode for Flexible Ni−Fe Batteries
Authors: Zhu Jie , Zhang Qian , Yang Sudong , Chen Lin , Zhao Peng , Yan Qiang
Published: November 2021

The nickel‐iron (Ni−Fe) battery is a competitive alternative for electrochemical energy storage, owning to its low cost, high safety, and strong auto‐adaptive ability. However, the self‐discharge and passivation of the negative electrode are the two main issues. In this work, a rock‐like Fe/Fe3O4 composite is synthesized and deposited on carbon fabric (Fe/Fe3O4@CF) by facile electrodeposition and annealing technologies to serve as a binder‐free anode, which exhibits a large areal capacity of 0.466 mAh cm−2 and long‐term cycling durability. Moreover, the flexible device is assembled by employing Fe/Fe3O4@CF‐750 as anode and Ni(OH)2@CF as cathode. The above battery displays an enhanced operating voltage up to 1.7 V, impressive mechanical flexibility, outstanding cycling stability (86.2 % retention of initial value over 6000 charge‐discharge cycles), and satisfactory voluminal capacity of 1.33 mAh cm−3, indicating its potential application for energy supply systems of modern wearable electronics.
Synthesis of Extra‐Large Pore, Large Pore and Medium Pore Zeolites Using a Small Imidazolium Cation as the Organic Structure‐Directing Agent
Authors: Gao Zihao Rei , Balestra Salvador R. G. , Li Jian , Camblor Miguel A.
Published: November 2021

One common strategy in the search for new zeolites is the use of organic structure‐directing agents (OSDA). Typically, one seeks to achieve a high specificity in the structure‐directing effect of the OSDA. This study shows, however, that an OSDA lacking strong specificity towards any particular zeolite may provide opportunities for discovery when other synthesis parameters are systematically screened. Thus, 1‐methyl‐2‐ethyl‐3‐n‐propylimidazolium has allowed to crystallize the new large/medium pore zeolite HPM‐16 as well as the recently reported extra‐large pore ‐SYT and the medium/small pore and chiral STW. The sophisticated OSDA originally affording ‐SYT and the new simple OSDA have very little in common, both in terms of size, shape and flexibility, while both may still direct the synthesis of the same zeolite. In fact, molecular simulations show that the new OSDA is located in three different positions of the ‐SYT structure, including the discrete 8MR where the original organic could not fit.
Regulating Interfacial Lithium Ion by Artificial Protective Overlayers for High‐Performance Lithium Metal Anodes
Authors: Ye Lei , Liao Meng , Wang Bingjie , Peng Huisheng
Published: November 2021

The main limitation of lithium (Li) metal anodes lies in their severe dendrite growth due to nonuniform Li+ flux and sluggish Li+ transportation at the anode surface. Fabricating artificial protective overlayer with tunable surficial properties on Li metal is a precise and effective strategy to relieve this problem. In this Concept article, we focus on the basic principles of regulating interfacial Li+ through artificial protective overlayers and summarize the material preparation as well as structural design of these overlayers. The remaining challenges and promising directions of artificial protective overlayers are then highlighted to provide clues for the practical application of Li metal anodes.
Trends in breast cancer incidence rates by race/ethnicity: Patterns by stage, socioeconomic position, and geography in the United States, 1999‐2017
Authors: Kaur Maneet , Joshu Corinne E. , Visvanathan Kala , Connor Avonne E.
Published: November 2021

Background

The incidence rate of breast cancer has been increasing over time across race/ethnicity in the United States. It is unclear whether these trends differ among stage, poverty, and geography subgroups.

Methods

Using data from the North American Association of Central Cancer Registries, this study estimated trends in age‐adjusted breast cancer incidence rates among women aged 50 to 84 years from 1999 to 2017 by race/ethnicity (non‐Hispanic Black, non‐Hispanic White, and Hispanic) and across subgroups (stage, county‐level poverty, county urban/rural status, and geographic region [West, Midwest, South, and Northeast]).

Results

From 2004 to 2017, breast cancer incidence rates increased across race/ethnicity and subgroups, with the greatest average annual percent increases observed for non‐Hispanic Black women, overall (0.9%) and those living in lower poverty areas (0.8%), rural areas (1.2%), and all regions except the West (0.8%‐1.0%). Stronger increases among non‐Hispanic Black women were observed for local‐stage disease and for some subgroups of distant‐stage disease. Non‐Hispanic Black women had the smallest decrease in regional‐stage disease across most subgroups. Similarly, Hispanic women had the strongest increases in some subgroups, including areas with higher poverty (0.6%‐1.2%) and in the West (0.8%), for local‐ and distant‐stage disease.

Conclusions

These trends highlight concerns for an increasing burden of breast cancer among subpopulations, with some already experiencing disparate breast cancer mortality rates, and they highlight the need for targeted breast cancer prevention and efforts to reduce mortality disparities in areas with increasing incidence.
An Interprofessional Student‐Run Medication Review Program: The Clinical STOPP/START‐Based Outcomes of a Controlled Clinical Trial in a Geriatric Outpatient Clinic
Authors: Sultan Rowan , van den Beukel Tessa O. , Reumerman Michael O. , Daelmans Hester E. M. , Springer Hans , Grijmans Els , Muller Majon , Richir Milan C. , van Agtmael Michiel A. , Tichelaar Jelle
Published: November 2021

As the population ages, more people will have comorbid disorders and polypharmacy. Medication should be reviewed regularly in order to avoid adverse drug reactions and medication‐related hospital visits, but this is often not done. As part of our student‐run clinic project, we investigated whether an interprofessional student‐run medication review program (ISP) added to standard care at a geriatric outpatient clinic leads to better prescribing. In this controlled clinical trial, patients visiting a memory outpatient clinic were allocated to standard care (control group) or standard care plus the ISP team (intervention group). The medications of all patients were reviewed by a review panel (“gold standard”), resident, and in the intervention arm also by an ISP team consisting of a group of students from the medicine and pharmacy faculties and students from the higher education school of nursing for advanced nursing practice. For both groups, the number of STOPP/START‐based medication changes mentioned in general practitioner (GP) correspondence and the implementation of these changes about 6 weeks after the outpatient visit were investigated. The data of 216 patients were analyzed (control group = 100, intervention group = 116). More recommendations for STOPP/START‐based medication changes were made in the GP correspondence in the intervention group than in the control group (43% vs. 24%, P = < 0.001). After 6 weeks, a significantly higher proportion of these changes were implemented in the intervention group (19% vs. 9%, P = 0.001). The ISP team, in addition to standard care, is an effective intervention for optimizing pharmacotherapy and medication safety in a geriatric outpatient clinic.
Soil water storage and maize (Zea mays L.) yield under straw return and tillage practices
Authors: Dong Fei , Yan Qiuyan , Wu Linjia , Yang Feng , Wang Juanling , Zhang Jiancheng , Yan Shuangdui
Published: November 2021

Incorporating returned straw with tillage practices during the fallow period may be crucial for yield increase of dryland maize (Zea mays L.) by improving soil water storage. Field experiments were conducted over 3 yr (2016–2019) to investigate the effects of four treatments (CK, no‐till with crushed straw left on the ground; RT, rotary tillage with crushed straw mixed into the 0‐to‐20‐cm soil layer; DP, deep ploughing with crushed straw mixed into the 30‐to‐35‐cm soil layer; SM, no‐till with whole straw mulched on the surface) on soil water storage, yield and its components, and water use efficiency (WUE) of dryland maize in northern China. Compared with CK, the yield of RT, DP, and SM treatments increased by 2.3 to 68.3, 22.8 to 126.1% and 9.3 to 119.8%, respectively, during the 3 yr. The most significant increase was obtained in the drier year of 2019, though yields were lowest overall that year. The DP treatment had greater water storage in the upper soil layer (0–100 cm) in all 3 yr, followed by SM and RT. The average increment of precipitation use efficiency and WUE under RT, DP, and SM was 25.4, 58.6, and 48.6 and 20.7, 31.6, and 29.9%, respectively. The results indicated that numerically higher yield components and yields of dryland maize were observed upon DP and SM. Thus, these two practices (DP and SM) could be suitable field management choices to promote water storage and production of dryland maize in the northern China.
Aqueous‐Natural Deep Eutectic Solvent‐Enhanced 5‐Hydroxymethylfurfural Production from Glucose, Starch, and Food Wastes
Authors: Zuo Miao , Wang Xinyu , Wang Qian , Zeng Xianhai , Lin Lu
Published: November 2021

5‐Hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) has been regarded as an essential building block for synthesizing chemicals and biofuels, but the direct conversion of biomass to HMF is still a critical challenge. In this study, a cheap and green aqueous‐natural deep eutectic solvent (A‐NADES) was used to efficiently produce HMF from various carbohydrates, with a low amount of SnCl4 as the catalyst. High HMF yields of 64.3, 64.0, 61.3, and 54.5 % were obtained from glucose, starch, rice waste, and bread waste at 130 °C in the A‐NADES/MIBK (methyl isobutyl ketone) biphasic system, respectively. Mechanistic study results revealed that the water in A‐NADES was the key factor in facilitating the conversion of Sn atom existent forms and promoted the HMF production. The choline chloride in NADES stabilized the HMF product with the cooperation of extraction solvent MIBK and inhibited the side reactions of HMF. This study investigated the multiple interaction functions of A‐NADES to feedstocks and proposed a practical application of novel solvents to facilitate biomass and food waste conversion with a green method.
Mechanochemically‐Assisted Synthesis of Polyimides
Authors: Rensch Tilo , Fabig Sven , Grätz Sven , Borchardt Lars
Published: November 2021

Polyimides were obtained in 99 % yield in under 1 h through the “beat and heat” approach, involving solvent‐free vibrational ball milling and a thermal treatment step. The influence of a plethora of additives was explored, such as Lewis acids, Lewis bases, and dehydrating agents, and the mechanochemical reaction was identified to run via a polyamic acid intermediate. The protocol was adopted to a range of substrates inaccessible through solution‐based processes, including perylene tetracarboxylic acid dianhydride and melamine. Furthermore, quantum chemical calculations were conducted to identify the water removal as the crucial step in the reaction mechanism. The presented method is substantially faster and more versatile than the solution‐based process.
Exercise Satiation: A novel theoretical conceptualization for problematic exercise observed in eating disorders
Authors: Barker Jessica L. , Kolar David , Lazzer Allison Spotts‐De , Keel Pamela K.
Published: November 2021

Exercise Satiation is a novel theoretical conceptualization for problematic exercise often observed in eating disorders. Problematic exercise is present across the spectrum of eating disorder presentations and is a cardinal symptom of eating disorders that has been difficult to treat historically. Conceptualizing exercise in the context of Reward Satiation similar to other biological drives such as eating could provide new insights into the etiology, maintenance, and treatment of problematic exercise in eating disorders. Through this understanding, we may be able to provide and increase adherence to interventions that target these mechanisms and as such, reduce impairment associated with problematic exercise for those with eating disorders. Using the Research Domain Criteria (RDoC) framework, we propose and discuss potential research avenues to explore Exercise Satiation in the context of eating disorders.
How does a wetland plant respond to increasing temperature along a latitudinal gradient?
Authors: Lindborg Regina , Ermold Matti , Kuglerová Lenka , Jansson Roland , Larson Keith W. , Milbau Ann , Cousins Sara A. O.
Published: November 2021

Global warming affects plant fitness through changes in functional traits and thereby ecosystem function. Wetlands are declining worldwide, and hence, ecosystem functions linked to wetlands are threatened. We use Caltha palustris “a common wetland plant” to study whether warming affects growth and reproduction differently depending on origin of source population, potentially affecting phenotypic response to local climate. We conducted a 2‐year in situ temperature manipulation experiment using clone pairs of C. palustris in four regions, along a 1300‐km latitudinal gradient of Sweden. Open‐top chambers were used to passively increase temperature, paired with controls. Growth and reproductive traits were measured from 320 plants (four regions × five sites × two treatments × eight plants) over two consecutive seasons to assess the effect of warming over time. We found that warming increased plant height, leaf area, number of leaves, and roots. High‐latitude populations responded more strongly to warming than low‐latitude populations, especially by increasing leaf area. Warming increased number of flowers in general, but only in the second year, while number of fruits increased in low‐latitude populations the first year. Prolonged warming leads to an increase in both number of leaves and flowers over time. While reproduction shows varying and regional responses to warming, impacts on plant growth, especially in high‐latitude populations, have more profound effects. Such effects could lead to changes in plant community composition with increased abundance of fast‐growing plants with larger leaves and more clones, affecting plant competition and ecological functions such as decomposition and nutrient retention. Effects of warming were highly context dependent; thus, we encourage further use of warming experiments to predict changes in growth, reproduction, and community composition across wetland types and climate gradients targeting different plant forms.
Wet–dry cycles on sandy and loessial Negev soils: Implications for biocrust establishment and growth?
Authors: Kidron Giora J. , Kronenfeld Rafael , Xiao Bo , Starinsky Abraham
Published: November 2021

Long‐term field campaigns in the Negev observed wet–dry cycles (WDCs) following rain events, principally on sand. Aiming to assess the relevant mechanism (whether dewfall, water capillarity or distillation derived by temperature‐induced vapor flux [TIVF] which stems from the soil), a set of outdoor experiments was conducted on sand and loess. They included nonrainfall water (NRW) and temperature measurements during the rainless dry seasons (summer, fall) and during the winter, which was divided to a wet (following rain) and dry periods. Dew measurements were conducted on cloths, whether directly attached to the soil or located at 0.5 cm above ground, aiming to eliminate capillarity and assessing the possible contribution of dewfall and TIVF‐induced distillation. Our findings show that (a) WDCs were only observed following rainstorms, particularly on sand, (b) WDCs could not have been explained by capillarity (they continued at the presence of an air gap), (c) significantly lower minimum surface temperatures (averaging 0.8°C) characterized the sand, which following rainstorms resulted in higher NRW due to TIVF, that is, visibly noted WDCs. With sand being characterized by a lush cover of biocrusts in the Negev dunefields, while being largely absent from the loessial playas scattered within the dunefield, it is suggested that WDCs may play an important role in the establishment and growth of biocrusts over sand dunes of the Negev and possibly in other arid dunes.
Constructing Crystalline g‐C3N4/g‐C3N4−xSx Isotype Heterostructure for Efficient Photocatalytic and Piezocatalytic Performances
Authors: Xu Tingting , Xia Zhonghui , Li Hongguan , Niu Ping , Wang Shulan , Li Li
Published: November 2021

Graphitic carbon nitride (g‐C3N4) is viewed as a promising visible‐light photocatalyst for industrialization due to its low processing temperature and high chemical stability. However, serious charge recombination caused by incomplete polymerization during direct calcination of nitrogen‐rich precursors significantly limits its photocatalytic performances. To boost charge separation, herein, we propose a rational strategy by constructing a crystalline g‐C3N4/g‐C3N4−xSx isotype heterostructure through the molten salt method. Theoretical calculation reveals that apparent charge‐transfer channels are formed between g‐C3N4 and S‐doped g‐C3N4 layers in the heterostructure. Owing to high crystallinity for decreasing charge recombination and isotype heterostructure for efficient charge transfer, the as‐prepared g‐C3N4/g‐C3N4−xSx showed remarkable photocatalytic performances with the hydrogen production rate elevated by up to 12.3 times of its singular components. Another novelty of this work is we investigated for the first time the piezocatalytic activity of crystalline g‐C3N4 by characterizing its performance for H2O2 generation and KMnO4 reduction. Strikingly, its superior piezocatalytic performance over components can be further improved by NaBH4 treatment, which is uncovered to enhance the asymmetric structure of crystalline g‐C3N4 by introducing extra cyano groups and removing partial NHx species in its tri‐s‐triazine layer structure. This work opens up new strategies for the design of highly efficient polymeric photocatalysts and highlights the piezocatalytic studies of g‐C3N4.
Effects of luseogliflozin on estimated plasma volume in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction
Authors: Nakashima Mitsutaka , Miyoshi Toru , Ejiri Kentaro , Kihara Hajime , Hata Yoshiki , Nagano Toshihiko , Takaishi Atsushi , Toda Hironobu , Nanba Seiji , Nakamura Yoichi , Akagi Satoshi , Sakuragi Satoru , Minagawa Taro , Kawai Yusuke , Nishii Nobuhiro , Fuke Soichiro , Yoshikawa Masaki , Nakamura Kazufumi , Ito Hiroshi ,   MUSCAT‐HF Study Investigators
Published: November 2021

Aims

Sodium glucose co‐transporter 2 inhibitors have diuretic effects in both patients with glycosuria and with natriuresis. We sought to assess the effect of luseogliflozin on estimated plasma volume (ePV) in patients with type 2 diabetes and heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF).

Methods and results

This study was a post‐hoc analysis of the MUSCAT‐HF trial (UMIN000018395), a multicentre, prospective, open‐label, randomized controlled trial that assessed the effect of 12 weeks of luseogliflozin (2.5 mg, once daily, n = 83) as compared with voglibose (0.2 mg, three times daily, n = 82) on the reduction in brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) in patients with type 2 diabetes and HFpEF. The analysis compared the change in ePV calculated by the Straus formula from baseline to Weeks 4, 12, and 24, using a mixed‐effects model for repeated measures. We also estimated the association between changes in ePV and changes in other clinical parameters, including BNP levels. Luseogliflozin significantly reduced ePV as compared to voglibose at Week 4 {adjusted mean group‐difference −6.43% [95% confidence interval (CI): −9.11 to −3.74]}, at Week 12 [−8.73% (95%CI: −11.40 to −6.05)], and at Week 24 [−11.02% (95%CI: −13.71 to −8.33)]. The effect of luseogliflozin on these parameters was mostly consistent across various patient clinical characteristics. The change in ePV at Week 12 was significantly associated with log‐transformed BNP (r = 0.197, P = 0.015) and left atrial volume index (r = 0.283, P = 0.019).

Conclusions

Luseogliflozin significantly reduced ePV in patients with type 2 diabetes and HFpEF, as compared with voglibose. The reduction of intravascular volume by luseogliflozin may provide clinical benefits to patients with type 2 diabetes and HFpEF.
Changes in Sewage Sludge Chemical Signatures During a COVID-19 Community Lockdown, Part 2: Nontargeted Analysis of Sludge and Evaluation with COVID-19 Metrics
Authors: Nason Sara L. , Lin Elizabeth , Godri Pollitt Krystal J. , Peccia Jordan
Published: November 2021

Sewage sludge and wastewater include urine and feces from an entire community, and it is highly likely that this mixture contains chemicals whose presence is dependent on levels of SARS-CoV-2 in the community. We analyzed primary sewage sludge samples collected in New Haven, Connecticut, USA, during the initial wave of the COVID-19 pandemic using liquid chromatography coupled with high-resolution mass spectrometry and performed an exploratory investigation of correlations between chemical features and COVID-19 metrics including concentrations of severe acute respiratory syndrome–coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) RNA in the sludge and local COVID-19 case numbers and hospital admissions. Inclusion of all chemical features in this analysis is key for discovering potential indicator compounds for COVID-19, whose structures may not be known. We found correlations with COVID-19 metrics for several identified chemicals as well as many unidentified features in the data, including three potential indicator molecules that are recommended for prioritization in future studies on COVID-19 in wastewater and sludge. These features have molecular weights of 108.0935, 318.1214, and 331.1374. While it is not possible to achieve prediction of COVID-19 epidemiological metrics from the one data set used in the present study, advances in this research area are important to share as scientists worldwide work on discovering efficient methods for tracking SARS-CoV-2 in wastewater and the environment. Environ Toxicol Chem 2022;41:1193–1201. © 2021 SETAC