bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lower third chest wall reconstruction in a bilateral sequential lung transplant recipient
Authors: Hever Pennylouise , Singh Prateush , Nikkhah Dariush , Anikin Vladimir
Published: January 2021

Reconstruction of the sternum following deep sternal wound infection (DSWI) can be challenging, and despite advances in reconstructive surgery, DSWI remains a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in cardiothoracic patients. Transplantation patients present an additional, unique challenge for the reconstructive surgeon. These patients are often on immunosuppressant therapy, with multiple comorbidities, and cannot tolerate prolonged operations for reconstruction. They often have a prior extensive surgical history, which may limit donor options; and their wounds are often in the lower third of the sternum, which is a challenging location to reconstruct with locoregional tissues.

We report a case of successful lower third chest wall reconstruction in a bilateral lung transplant recipient with a combination of bilateral pectoralis advancement flaps and omentoplasty.
Clinical decision support to improve management of diabetes and dysglycemia in the hospital: a path to optimizing practice and outcomes
Authors: Pichardo-Lowden Ariana , Umpierrez Guillermo , Lehman Erik B , Bolton Matthew D , DeFlitch Christopher J , Chinchilli Vernon M , Haidet Paul M
Published: January 2021

Introduction

Innovative approaches are needed to design robust clinical decision support (CDS) to optimize hospital glycemic management. We piloted an electronic medical record (EMR), evidence-based algorithmic CDS tool in an academic center to alert clinicians in real time about gaps in care related to inpatient glucose control and insulin utilization, and to provide management recommendations.

Research design and methods

The tool was designed to identify clinical situations in need for action: (1) severe or recurrent hyperglycemia in patients with diabetes: blood glucose (BG) ≥13.88 mmol/L (250 mg/dL) at least once or BG ≥10.0 mmol/L (180 mg/dL) at least twice, respectively; (2) recurrent hyperglycemia in patients with stress hyperglycemia: BG ≥10.0 mmol/L (180 mg/dL) at least twice; (3) impending or established hypoglycemia: BG 3.9–4.4 mmol/L (70–80 mg/dL) or ≤3.9 mmol/L (70 mg/dL); and (4) inappropriate sliding scale insulin (SSI) monotherapy in recurrent hyperglycemia, or anytime in patients with type 1 diabetes. The EMR CDS was active (ON) for 6 months for all adult hospital patients and inactive (OFF) for 6 months. We prospectively identified and compared gaps in care between ON and OFF periods.

Results

When active, the hospital CDS tool significantly reduced events of recurrent hyperglycemia in patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes (3342 vs 3701, OR=0.88, p=0.050) and in patients with stress hyperglycemia (288 vs 506, OR=0.60, p<0.001). Hypoglycemia or impending hypoglycemia (1548 vs 1349, OR=1.15, p=0.050) were unrelated to the CDS tool on subsequent analysis. Inappropriate use of SSI monotherapy in type 1 diabetes (10 vs 22, OR=0.36, p=0.073), inappropriate use of SSI monotherapy in type 2 diabetes (2519 vs 2748, OR=0.97, p=0.632), and in stress hyperglycemia subjects (1617 vs 1488, OR=1.30, p<0.001) were recognized.

Conclusion

EMR CDS was successful in reducing hyperglycemic events among hospitalized patients with dysglycemia and diabetes, and inappropriate insulin use in patients with type 1 diabetes.
Performance of the Safer Nursing Care Tool to measure nurse staffing requirements in acute hospitals: a multicentre observational study
Authors: Griffiths Peter , Saville Christina , Ball Jane , Culliford David , Pattison Natalie , Monks Thomas
Published: January 2021

Objectives

The best way to determine nurse staffing requirements on hospital wards is unclear. This study explores the precision of estimates of nurse staffing requirements made using the Safer Nursing Care Tool (SNCT) patient classification system for different sample sizes and investigates whether recommended staff levels correspond with professional judgements of adequate staffing.

Design

Observational study linking datasets of staffing requirements (estimated using a tool) to professional judgements of adequate staffing. Multilevel logistic regression modelling.

Setting

81 medical/surgical units in four acute care hospitals.

Participants

22 364 unit days where staffing levels and SNCT ratings were linked to nurse reports of "enough staff for quality".

Primary outcome measures

SNCT-estimated staffing requirements and nurses’ assessments of staffing adequacy.

Results

The recommended minimum sample of 20 days allowed the required number to employ (the establishment) to be estimated with a mean precision (defined as half the width of the CI as a percentage of the mean) of 4.1%. For most units, much larger samples were required to estimate establishments within ±1 whole time equivalent staff member. When staffing was lower than that required according to the SNCT, for each hour per patient day of registered nurse staffing below the required staffing level, the odds of nurses reporting that there were enough staff to provide quality care were reduced by 11%. Correspondingly, the odds of nurses reporting that necessary nursing care was left undone were increased by 14%. No threshold indicating an optimal staffing level was observed. Surgical specialty, patient turnover and more single rooms were associated with lower odds of staffing adequacy.

Conclusions

The SNCT can provide reliable estimates of the number of nurses to employ on a unit, but larger samples than the recommended minimum are usually required. The SNCT provides a measure of nursing workload that correlates with professional judgements, but the recommended staffing levels may not be optimal. Some important sources of systematic variations in staffing requirements for some units are not accounted for. SNCT measurements are a potentially useful adjunct to professional judgement but cannot replace it.

Trial registration number

ISRCTN12307968.
Protocol for a cluster randomised controlled trial of the DAFNEplus(Dose Adjustment For Normal Eating) intervention compared with 5x1 DAFNE: a lifelong approach to promote effective self-management in adults with type 1 diabetes
Authors: Coates Elizabeth , Amiel Stephanie , Baird Wendy , Benaissa Mohammed , Brennan Alan , Campbell Michael Joseph , Chadwick Paul , Chater Tim , Choudhary Pratik , Cooke Debbie , Cooper Cindy , Cross Elizabeth , De Zoysa Nicole , Eissa Mohammad , Elliott Jackie , Gianfrancesco Carla , Good Tim , Hopkins David , Hui Zheng , Lawton Julia , Lorencatto Fabiana , Michie Susan , Pollard Daniel John , Rankin David , Schutter Jose , Scott Elaine , Speight Jane , Stanton-Fay Stephanie , Taylor Carolin , Thompson Gillian , Totton Nikki , Yardley Lucy , Zaitcev Aleksandr , Heller Simon
Published: January 2021

Introduction

The successful treatment of type 1 diabetes (T1D) requires those affected to employ insulin therapy to maintain their blood glucose levels as close to normal to avoid complications in the long-term. The Dose Adjustment For Normal Eating (DAFNE) intervention is a group education course designed to help adults with T1D develop and sustain the complex self-management skills needed to adjust insulin in everyday life. It leads to improved glucose levels in the short term (manifest by falls in glycated haemoglobin, HbA1c), reduced rates of hypoglycaemia and sustained improvements in quality of life but overall glucose levels remain well above national targets. The DAFNEplusintervention is a development of DAFNE designed to incorporate behavioural change techniques, technology and longer-term structured support from healthcare professionals (HCPs).

Methods and analysis

A pragmatic cluster randomised controlled trial in adults with T1D, delivered in diabetes centres in National Health Service secondary care hospitals in the UK. Centres will be randomised on a 1:1 basis to standard DAFNE or DAFNEplus. Primary clinical outcome is the change in HbA1c and the primary endpoint is HbA1c at 12 months, in those entering the trial with HbA1c >7.5% (58 mmol/mol), and HbA1c at 6 months is the secondary endpoint. Sample size is 662 participants (approximately 47 per centre); 92% power to detect a 0.5% difference in the primary outcome of HbA1c between treatment groups. The trial also measures rates of hypoglycaemia, psychological outcomes, an economic evaluation and process evaluation.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethics approval was granted by South West-Exeter Research Ethics Committee (REC ref: 18/SW/0100) on 14 May 2018. The results of the trial will be published in a National Institute for Health Research monograph and relevant high-impact journals.

Trial registration number

ISRCTN42908016.
Perceptions of the provision of drug information, pharmaceutical detailing and engagement with non-personal promotion at a large physicians network: a mixed-methods study
Authors: Hincapie Ana , Schlosser Elizabeth , Damachi Udim , Neff Erica , Llambi Leandro , Groves Kent , MacKinnon Neil J
Published: January 2021

Objective

Non-personal promotion (NPP) such as digital, print-based marketing, direct promotional visits and free drug samples are means of pharmaceutical marketing. This study described practices of drug information, pharmaceutical detailing and engagement with NPP at an integrated network of providers.

Design

This was a sequential explanatory mixed-methods study. A survey was followed by semistructured interviews. The questionnaire elicited preferred sources of drug information, management of drug information and perceptions on drug samples, coupons and pharmaceutical representative visits. Interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics (quantitative) and content analysis (qualitative).

Setting

Face-to-face or telephonic interviews were conducted at a large physicians network in Northern Kentucky.

Participants

Eighty-two medical assistants, primary care, specialty providers and other office staff who completed the survey and 16 interviewees.

Results

Most respondents were women (79.3%), office managers (26.8%) and individuals employed for 15 years or longer within the organisation (30.5%). Most participants (85.3%) indicated that pharmaceutical representative visits are the most common source of drug information. Paper-based material was the most frequent form in which information was received in physician offices (62.2%). Medical assistants were usually responsible for handling drug information (46.3%) on arrival in the office, compared with 15.3% of physicians. Drug representative detailing and lunches (62.2%) were the desired method of drug information communication followed by electronic mail or e-journals (11%). Interviewees generated three themes that described pharmaceutical representative visits and interactions with prescriber and non-prescriber personnel in the offices.

Conclusions

We found significant involvement of non-prescriber personnel in drug information management at primary and specialty care offices. Participants perceived that pharmaceutical representatives have an important role in keeping the offices informed and supplied with relevant drug information, coupons and samples. Findings highlight the importance of engaging prescriber and non-prescriber personnel to guarantee relevant information reaches providers.
Mortality of Japanese Olympic athletes in 1964 Tokyo Olympic Games
Authors: Takeuchi Taro , Kitamura Yuri , Ishizuka Soya , Yamada Sachiko , Aono Hiroshi , Kawahara Takashi , Sobue Tomotaka
Published: January 2021

Objectives

To compare the mortality of Japanese athletes in the 1964 Tokyo Olympic Games with that of the Japanese population, and to elucidate factors associated with their mortality.

Methods

We obtained from the Japan Sport Association study subjects’ biographical information, information on lifestyles and medical data. Missing data were obtained from online databases. Standardised mortality ratio (SMR) was calculated to compare athletes’ mortality with the Japanese population. Cox proportional hazards model was applied to estimate the HR for each category of body mass index (BMI), smoking history and handgrip strength. This analysis was limited to male athletes due to the small number of female athletes.

Results

Among 342 (283 men, 59 women) athletes, deaths were confirmed for 70 (64 men, 6 women) athletes between September 1964 and December 2017. Total person years was 15 974.8, and the SMR was 0.64 (95% CI 0.50 to 0.81). Multivariate analysis performed on 181 male athletes. Mortality was significantly higher for BMI≥25 kg/m2than for 21–23 kg/m2(HR: 3.03, 95% CI 1.01 to 9.07). We found no statistically significant associations between smoking history and mortality; the HR (95% CI) for occasional and daily smokers were 0.82 (0.26 to 2.57) and 1.30 (0.55 to 3.03) compared with never smokers. We also found no statistically significant associations between handgrip strength and mortality (P for trend: 0.51).

Conclusion

Japanese athletes in the 1964 Tokyo Olympic Games lived longer than the Japanese population. BMI≥25 kg/m2was associated with higher mortality, but smoking history and handgrip strength were not associated with mortality.
Commercial validation of a modified method for delivering low nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium inputs to greenhouse-grown subirrigated pot chrysanthemums
Authors: Shelp Barry J. , Flaherty Edward J. , Sutton William J. , Schenck Lou M. , Aalbers Jamie
Published: January 2021

Subirrigation systems are popular for reducing nutrient usage in indoor floricultural production. Two open subirrigation experiments were conducted in a commercial setting using multiple chrysanthemum cultivars and up to 75% less N–P–K than industry standards. The lowest N–P–K levels supplied in the nutrient solution (in mmol·L−1: 5.4 N, 0.71−0.97 P, 1.9−4.1 K) up to bud break, were associated with acceptable leaf N–P–K levels [4.5−5.4% dry matter (DM), 0.23−0.60% DM, and 3.3−5.6% DM, respectively]. These findings validate our modified delivery practice and the use of lower N–P–K inputs in the production of subirrigated pot chrysanthemums.
Cryogenic control system operational experience at SNS
Authors: Howell M. , Kim S.-H. , Martinez M. , White K.
Published: January 2021

The helium cryogenic system at Spallation Neutron Source (SNS) provides cooling to 81 superconducting radio frequency cavities. To support the operation of the cryogenic facility, a highly reliable control system consisting of software, hardware, and Human Machine Interface (HMI) has been developed and improved during the first fifteen years of operation. Integrating the cryogenic control system with other subsystems of the SNS complex is an important aspect to the success of the operation. The operating experience, lessons learned and recommendations to consider for future facilities will be detailed in this paper.
Synthesis, Structure and Optical Properties of NiTi Shape Memory Thin Films
Authors: Hamed Nagham M. , Al-Rashid Saeed Naif Turki
Published: January 2021

NiTi Shape Memory Alloy (SMA) is now widely used in important applications due to its shape memory effect (SME) and biocompatibility. However, there is still a challenge to control the sizes and shapes of these nanoparticles. Here, we report on the use of pulsed laser deposition technique for the cultivation of NiTi nanoparticles on glass substrates. It discussed the implications of the case of the influence of depositing laser energy on the size of a grain of NiTi nanoparticle. The nominated effect on the optical properties of its thin-film was also discussed. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis revealed that the films prepared at 800[Formula: see text]mJ, 900[Formula: see text]mJ and 1000[Formula: see text]mJ were amorphous structures. The Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) results confirmed that the thin films are made up of spherical particles that are evenly distributed (in terms of size). A blueshift in the bandgap was observed in the UV–Visible absorption spectra with increase in the depositing laser energy due to the quantum confinement effect of nanoparticle formation.
Models of non-static and inhomogeneous gravitating source in Rastall gravity
Authors: Abbas G. , Tahir M. , Shahzad M. R.
Published: January 2021

In this paper, we have explored the non-static anisotropic gravitational collapse and expansion solutions in Rastall theory of gravity. The field equations have been formulated for the non-static and inhomogeneous gravitating source. The Misner–Sharp mass function, auxiliary solution and trapped condition have been used to obtained a trapped surface. The auxiliary solutions have been used to obtain the expansion and collapse solutions; these solutions depend on [Formula: see text] and parameter [Formula: see text] (which appears due to parametric form of metric components); also the range of parameter [Formula: see text] has been examined. The expansion scalar [Formula: see text] depends on parameter [Formula: see text], in the case of expansion [Formula: see text] for [Formula: see text], while for collapse [Formula: see text] with [Formula: see text]. Also, the dynamics of the gravitating spherical source has been discussed graphically with the effects of Rastall parameter [Formula: see text]. For the physically reasonable fluid, the validity of energy conditions has been discussed for expansion and collapse solutions with the various values of [Formula: see text].
Prevalence and patterns of musculoskeletal pain among undergraduate students of occupational therapy and physiotherapy in a South African university
Authors: Ogunlana Michael O. , Govender Pragashnie , Oyewole Olufemi O.
Published: January 2021

Background: Musculoskeletal pain (MSP) conditions are common in the educational leaning environment and are often associated with poor ergonomic conditions.

Objective: This study investigated the prevalence, pattern and possible risk factors of MSP among undergraduate students of occupational therapy and physiotherapy in a South African university.

Methods: A cross-sectional survey using an internet-based self-designed electronic questionnaire was used to obtain information about participants’ socio-demography, ergonomic hazards, MSP, and relevant personal information. Descriptive statistics, chi-square, and logistic regression were used in analyzing the data.

Results: There were 145 participants (females 115 (79.3%); physiotherapy (74) 51.03%), making 36.7% of the present undergraduate student population in the two departments. The most prevalent ergonomic work hazards were prolonged sitting (71.7%) and repetitive movements (53.8%). The 12 months prevalence of MSP among the students was 89.7%. The pattern of MSP revealed that pain on the neck region was most prevalent (66.2%) followed by pain in the low back region (64.4%). Duration of daily travels and participation in regular exercise activities were significantly associated with the prevalence of MSP. Logistic model explained 23.6% of the variance in prevalence of MSP and correctly classified 94.1% of cases ([Formula: see text], [Formula: see text]). The right-handed students were 0.13 times more likely to present with MSP than left-handed students. Also, students who exercised regularly were 9.47 times less likely to present with MSP.

Conclusion: MSP is highly prevalent among health science undergraduates and is significantly associated with sedentary postures and inadequacy in structured physical activity participation.
Evaluating the City Image of Istanbul Historic Peninsula Through Academicians’ Perspective
Authors: ÖGÇE Hüseyin , DEMİR Zeki
Published: January 2021

Urban studies are crucial to comprehend an environment with physical, social and psychological structures. There is no doubt that environmental psychology studies are important to this topic. This is why this research aims at presenting the city image of Istanbul Historic Peninsula through academicians’ perspective. The study analyzes the relationships among safe, unsafe, likeable, unlikeable, preferable and unpreferable urban elements, and concludes a general city image of the research area. We conducted 32 surveys with other scholars and analyzed the surveys via MAXQDA 2018 Analytics Pro program. To obtain reliable results, the Kuckartz–Rädikers zeta similarity analysis was conducted and the similarity value was obtained as “0.86”. The results show that the landmarks and districts are dominant in verbal maps. As for hand-drawn maps, landmarks and urban nodes are more dominant than other elements. Moreover, there are similarities between unsafe and unlikeable elements, and between likeable and safe elements. In conclusion, the urban legibility and image are intensively dominant in the eastern side of the research area (Atatürk Boulevard-oriented area) because of negative psychological boundaries.
Eelectrochemical Evaluation of Self-assembled Monolayers of N-Heterocyclic Carbenes on Gold and DFT Studies
Authors: Mao Junwei , Xu Pengfei , Zhou Zhenju , Zhou Yu , Tang Yongming
Published: January 2021

Three N-heterocyclic carbenes (NHCs) are synthesized and their self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) are built up on gold substrate. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) tests show that the NHC-based SAMs exhibit high stability in 0.1 M HCl solution, and the loss of NHC molecules on gold surface is less than 3% after immersion of 32 h. The unsaturated level of heterocyclic moiety has a negligible effect on the stability of NHC-SAMs, which is attributed to the special bonding mechanism between NHCs and gold atom. Theoretical calculations reveal that the bonding of NHC molecule is dominantly contributed by the interaction of the d orbital of gold atom with the molecular orbitals mainly distributing on carbene carbon atom of NHC, such as HOMO-1 (σ1) and HOMO-2 (π1), and the σ-type interaction accounts for the main state of bonding in comparison to the π-type one. Those molecular orbitals distributing on heterocyclic moiety nearly take no part in the bonding, and the interaction of isopropyl substituents on N atoms with gold surface is not observed in this study. In addition, it is confirmed that EIS measurement can both sensitively and quantitatively examine the adsorption and desorption of SAMs on gold surface.
Long-Term Stability of Pr2NiO4+δ
Air Electrodes for Solid Oxide Cells against Chromium Poisoning
Authors: Schrödl Nina , Egger Andreas , Lammer Judith , Hofer Ferdinand , Sitte Werner
Published: January 2021

Long-term stability tests are performed at 800 °C on Pr2NiO4+δ
air electrodes by use of a symmetrical button cell with Ce0.9Gd0.1O1.95 as solid electrolyte. The experiments are carried out by means of electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and current-voltage measurements with and without current load under dry and humid conditions in the presence of a chromium source. Chromium poisoning of Pr2NiO4+δ
air electrodes is investigated for periods of several hundred hours at 30% relative humidity. In order to separate the influence of anodic and cathodic electrode polarization on Cr-deposition, measurements are conducted using a Pt-reference electrode. The electrode performance is found to remain fairly stable under dry conditions, even when a current is drawn. However, after volatile Cr-species in a humid atmosphere are introduced, the cell performance starts to deteriorate and the polarization resistance contribution of the SOFC cathode increases significantly. After several thousand hours, the electrodes are analyzed by means of analytical electron microscopy. Detailed post-test analyses provide evidence for a correlation between the extent of Cr-deposition and electrode degradation in SOFC as well as SOEC mode. Based on these findings, enhanced resilience of Pr2NiO4+δ
against Cr-poisoning in SOEC mode can be established.
A Sensitive Electrochemical Sensor Based on Dual Co-Doped N, P-rGO for Simultaneous Determination of Hydroquinone and Catechol
Authors: Liu Yanyan , Xie Ruirui , Zou Xun , Liu Jiamin , Wu Zhiyong , Peng Chang , Zhao Peng
Published: January 2021

In this paper, the N and P co-doped reduce graphene oxide (N, P-rGO) was prepared with one-pot solution method and characterized by using SEM and electrochemical technology. It was found that the N, P-rGO has an outstanding conductivity, large surface area and excellent electrocatalytic activity to hydroquinone (HQ) and catechol (CC), which usually coexist in aqueous environment. Under the optimal conditions, compared with bare glassy carbon electrode (GCE) and N doped reduce graphene oxide (N-rGO) modified GCE (N-rGO/GCE), the N, P-rGO/GCE displayed an excellent simultaneous determination towards HQ and CC. And the oxidation peak potential difference of HQ and CC obtained from N, P-rGO/GCE was 106 mV, indicating N, P-rGO/GCE has excellent resolution. The obtained detection limit was 62.1 nM and 99.7 nM for HQ and CC in a concentration range of 1 μM to 100 μM, respectively. At the same time, N, P-rGO/GCE also displayed satisfied selectivity, decent stability and desirable reproducibility. Furthermore, the fabricated sensor was successfully applied to detect two isomers in tap water and the recoveries of 99.52% to 106.36% and 95.5% to 103.97% for HQ and CC were obtained, which verified the practical application potential of N, P-rGO/GCE.
Anti-Oxidation Electrochemical Sensor Based on Nanocomposites for Sensitive Detection of Nitrite
Authors: Chu Guanglei , Huang Jingcheng , Yin Jiaqi , Guo Yemin , Sun Xia , Li Ming , Zhang Yanyan , Wang Xiangyou
Published: January 2021

Copper nanoparticles (Cu NPs) have good catalytic performance, but they are easy to be oxidized in the air, which greatly limits their practical application. In this paper, a novel anti-oxidation nitrite electrochemical sensor based on carboxymethylcellulose sodium functionalized reduced graphene oxide-copper nanoparticles (RGO-CMC@Cu NPs) was successfully prepared. Utilizing the high hydrophilia characteristic of CMC, the surface of Cu NPs was coated with an anti-oxidation film to reduce the oxidation rate of copper. At the same time, CMC was used to modify RGO that effectively increased the dispersion ability of RGO in aqueous solution. The prepared nanocomposites were characterized by Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM) and Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS). Under the optimal conditions, the fabricated sensor based on RGO-CMC@Cu NPs was used to detect nitrite by chronoamperometry. The linear detection ranges of the sensor were 1–15,000 μM and 15,000–41,000 μM with limit of detection (LOD) of 0.05 μM (S/N = 3), and the sensitivities were 0.171 μA·μM−1·cm−2 and 0.108 μA·μM−1·cm−2, respectively. In the stability test, the sensor was able to retain 91.1% of its initial sensitivity after 25 days of exposure to air.
A Shrinking-Core Model for the Degradation of High-Nickel Cathodes (NMC811) in Li-Ion Batteries: Passivation Layer Growth and Oxygen Evolution
Authors: Ghosh Abir , Foster Jamie M. , Offer Gregory , Marinescu Monica
Published: January 2021

A degradation model for high-nickel positive electrode materials that undergo a structural reorganisation involving oxygen loss and the formation of a disordered (spinel or rock-salt structure) passivation layer is presented for the first time. The model is a thermally coupled continuum model based on the single-particle model and is based upon a LiNi0.8Mn0.1Co0.1O2 (NMC811) layered oxide in this instance. The theoretical framework assumes a shrinking core mechanism, where lattice oxygen, [O], release occurs at the interface between the bulk and the passivation layer, and the rate of reaction is controlled by either [O]-diffusion through the passivation layer or the reaction kinetics at the interface. As the passivation layer grows, the core of active positive electrode material shrinks giving rise to both loss in active material (LAM) and loss in lithium inventory (LLI) through trapping lithium in the passivation layer, giving rise to capacity fade. The slower diffusion of lithium through the passivation layer also gives rise to power fade. The model predicts two limiting cases, “diffusion dominated” if [O]-diffusion is slow, and “reaction dominated” if [O]-diffusion is fast, relative to the reaction rate of [O]-release and also the thickness of the passivation layer.
IR Measurement of an LFP/C Battery: A Different Perspective
Authors: Lakshmanan Sathishkumar , Annadurai Sheenu , Sekar Vikneshvaran , Subban Ravi , Sugumaran Nanjan
Published: January 2021

Energy security and green energy are paving way for entire globe to adopt battery based ESS and EV. Online monitoring of battery parameters namely capacity and impedance are crucial to get better performance and life from the system. Impedance is a complex parameter comprises of ohmic, charge transfer and diffusion components. The effective impedance value differs depending on the measurement methodology and data accusation speed. DC method is generally used in the field due to simplicity and cost effectiveness. The present study adopts DC current interruption method for measuring impedance of 12.8 V/10 Ah, LFP/C battery. The voltage recovery and relaxation segment were used to derive impedance value at various SoC’s. First using electrochemical theory, it was proved that only diffusion is operating after current interruption when data is monitored at 1 s interval. The diffusion resistance changes not only with SoC but also with mode of operation i.e., charge vs. discharge. An empirical model was proposed taking care of three forces namely voltage gradient, repulsive force between lithium atom in graphene layer and Van der Waal’s force between graphene layers. The impact of the diffusion resistance on BMS is highlighted. It is suggested that the study can be used for monitoring ageing and calendaring life of battery, deducing the relationship between raw material and design parameter to performance of the battery.
Photoelectrochemical Performance of SnS2 Sensitized TiO2 Nanotube for Protection of 304 Stainless Steel
Authors: Shao Jing , Wang Xiu-Tong , Xu Hui , Zhao Xiao-Dong , Niu Jian-Min , Zhang Zhao-De , Huang Yan-Liang , Duan Ji-Zhou
Published: January 2021

SnS2-sensitized TiO2 nanotubes were fabricated via anodic oxidation and a successive ionic layer adsorption and reaction process. The prepared SnS2/TiO2 composites were used as photoanodes, and the corresponding photocathodic protection effect on 304 stainless steel was studied. The effect of the number of adsorbed SnS2 molecules on the photocatalytic protection conferred by the SnS2/TiO2 composites was also analyzed. The morphology and composition of the samples were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The optical absorption properties of the samples were analyzed by ultraviolet-visible diffuse reflectance spectroscopy. The electrochemical properties of the SnS2/TiO2 composites were characterized in terms of their open circuit potential, the photocurrent density, the electrochemical impedance spectrum and the current-voltage curve and used to analyze the photocatalytic protection effect. The results show that the SnS2/TiO2 composite exhibits higher visible light absorption and offers more photocathodic protection than pure TiO2 nanotubes. Using SnS2/TiO2(6C) as a photoanode reduces the potential of 304 stainless steel to −730 mV.
Improved High-Energy Na-NCM Cathode Prepared by Ion Exchange Route via Application of Various ALD Treatments
Authors: Turgeman Meital , Fayena-Greenstein Miryam , Bublil Shaul , Shpigel Netanel , Tsubery Merav Nadav , Chae Munseok , Elias Yuval , Aurbach Doron
Published: January 2021

The application of layered oxide compounds as cathode materials for sodium-ion batteries is considered a promising direction for the development of high-energy Na-ion batteries. However, despite many efforts, practical implementation of such electrodes is still challenging, mainly due to structural and surface instabilities associated with the high operating voltage of these cathodes. One of the most effective ways to mitigate these undesirable phenomena is the use of atomic layer deposition (ALD) to form a Nano-sized protective layer on the electrode surface. Application of ALD treatment results in increased electrode stability by preventing irreversible interactions between the electrolyte and cathode material. In search of optimal coating formulations, the effect of various ALD coatings viz. sodium-aluminate, lithium-aluminate, and alumina on the electrochemical performance of Na-NCM cathode synthesized by ion-exchange method. While the initial capacity loss attributed to oxygen release was significantly suppressed in all coated samples, better stability was observed for NaxAlyOz coating. The stabilization mechanism of the NaxAlyOz coating further investigated by XPS, XRD, and TEM revealed improved surface properties that prevent irreversible oxygen loss and migration of manganese from the electrode bulk toward the surface.
Communication—Fast Li+ Ion Conducting NASICON-Type Li1.15Y0.15Zr1.85P3O12 Glass Ceramics
Authors: Ogasa Kazuhito , Tomiyasu Keisuke , Inda Yasushi
Published: January 2021

Herein, NASICON-type Li1.15Y0.15Zr1.85P3O12 glass ceramics (a-LYZP) were synthesized from amorphous materials. Compared with samples prepared by the solid-state reaction (s-LYZP), a-LYZP showed a higher total ionic conductivity of 7.0 × 10−5 S cm−1 at 298 K and improved inter-particle contact. The structure of this glass ceramic effectively reduced the resistance of the Li1.15Y0.15Zr1.85P3O12. In the temperature range 263–298 K, the activation energy of a-LYZP was 0.43 eV, which was smaller than that for s-LYZP (0.63 eV). Rietveld analysis of XRD patterns suggested that the longer a-axis and larger unit lattice volume of a-LYZP prevented phase change from rhombohedral to triclinic.
Activation of RAGE-dependent endoplasmic reticulum stress associates with exacerbated postmyocardial infarction ventricular arrhythmias in diabetes
Authors: Liu Zhongwei , Zhang Yong , Pan Shuo , Qiu Chuan , Jia Hao , Wang Yuan , Zhu Haitao
Published: January 2021

In this study, we proposed a possible mechanism interpreting the clinical scenario that after myocardial infarction (MI) patients were more vulnerable to ventricular arrhythmias (VAs) when complicated with diabetes. A cohort study revealed that advanced glycation end products (AGEs) accumulated in patients with diabetes and closely associated post-MI VAs. In vivo and in vitro studies indicated that receptor for AGEs (RAGE)-dependent endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress protein kinase RNA-like ER kinase (PERK) pathway triggered VAs, via ER calcium releasing, through calcineurin/RyR2 mechanism.
Nicotine, smoking, podocytes, and diabetic nephropathy
Authors: Jaimes Edgar A. , Zhou Ming-Sheng , Siddiqui Mohammed , Rezonzew Gabriel , Tian Runxia , Seshan Surya V. , Muwonge Alecia N. , Wong Nicholas J. , Azeloglu Evren U. , Fornoni Alessia , Merscher Sandra , Raij Leopoldo
Published: January 2021

In this study, we demonstrate that nicotine increases the production of reactive oxygen species, increases cyclooxygenase-2 expression, and upregulates Cd36 while inducing downregulation of AMP-activated protein kinase. In vivo nicotine increases proteinuria and fibronectin expression in diabetic mice. This study demonstrates that effects of nicotine on podocytes are responsible, at least in part, for the deleterious effects of smoking in the progression of chronic kidney disease, including diabetic nephropathy.
Effectiveness and Safety of Posterior Vaginal Repair with Single‐Incision, Ultralightweight, Monofilament Propylene Mesh: First Evidence from a Case Series with Short‐Term Results
Authors: Deltetto Francesco , Favilli Alessandro , Buzzaccarini Giovanni , Vitagliano Amerigo
Published: January 2021

Objective. The use of transvaginal mesh is controversial, and over time, multiple surgical methods for the treatment of posterior vaginal prolapse (PVP) have been proposed including different surgical approaches and techniques. To date, no clear conclusion has been reached about the use of mesh for reinforcing transvaginal posterior repair. The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility, safety, and effectiveness of a novel, ultralightweight mesh for the treatment of PVP. Methods. We performed a single‐center, prospective observational study on consecutive patients referred for primary or recurrent, symptomatic stage II PVP (according to the international Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification System) from April 2017 to September 2018. In all patients, transvaginal posterior repair was augmented with a single‐incision, isoelastic polypropylene mesh. Data about the postoperative outcomes were collected until December 2019. Results. A total number of 15 patients were included. The median follow‐up after surgery was 18 months (IQR = 14). Surgery was completed in all cases without complications. Regarding the anatomical outcomes (as measured according to POP‐q classification), a significant improvement was observed in terms of Bp, D, and C (p < 0.05). The functional outcomes were significantly ameliorated after surgery, with a reduction of bulge symptom, stypsis, incomplete evacuation, and excessive staining (p < 0.05). The quality of life was significantly improved in the majority of patients (p < 0.05). Median patients’ satisfaction rate was 100% (IQR = 22.5%). Neither early nor late postoperative complications occurred. Conclusions. Single‐incision, ultralightweight polypropylene meshes were safe and highly effective in the treatment of PVP. As our study has some limitations, further large, controlled studies are needed.
Cooperative Scheduling of AGV and ASC in Automation Container Terminal Relay Operation Mode
Authors: Zhang Qinglei , Hu Weixin , Duan Jianguo , Qin Jiyun
Published: January 2021

The key problem of operation optimization for automated container terminal is the coordinated scheduling of automated quay crane (QC), automated guided vehicle (AGV), and automated stacking crane (ASC). In order to solve this problem, this paper proposed a new method to optimize the scheduling of ASC and AGV. In the automated container terminal, each container block is equipped with twin ASCs. At the same time, buffer zones are set at both ends of the container block to achieve the decoupling operation among ASC, AGV, and container truck. Considering the buffer capacity constraint and twin ASC operation interference, and introducing the design of handshake area, this paper developed a collaborative scheduling model of AGV and ASC in automatic terminal relay operation mode. This model is designed based on the genetic algorithm. The model aims to minimize the AGV waiting time and the ASC running time. The results indicated that the introduction of handshake area can effectively reduce the ASC operation interference by 10.56% on average. Also, it can be found that increasing buffer capacity can reduce the waiting time of AGV by about 4.25% on average, and the effect of relay operation is more obvious in large-scale operation. It was proved that buffer zone and handshake area can reduce task delay time and improve coordination between AGV and ASC.
Integrative Expression and Prognosis Analysis of DHX37 in Human Cancers by Data Mining
Authors: Huang Kang , Pang Tudi , Tong Changjun , Chen Houqing , Nie Yupeng , Wu Jiayi , Zhang Yandong , Chen Ganghong , Zhou Wei , Yang Dazhi
Published: January 2021

DHEA‐Box Helicase 37 (DHX37) is a putative RNA helicase. It is involved in various RNA secondary structure alteration processes, including translation, nuclear splicing, and ribosome assembly. It is reported to be associated with the neurodevelopmental disorder with brain anomalies, and a recent study suggests that DHX37 is a functional regulator of CD8 T cells. Dysregulation of the CD8 T cell function is closely related to defective antitumor immune responses. In the present study, we investigated the expression, mutation, and prognostic role of DHX37 in human cancers, mainly by mining publicly available datasets. Our results suggested that DHX37 was significantly upregulated in 17 kinds of tumors. Mutations including deletions, insertions, and substitutions of DHX37 were widely detected. Besides, the expression of DHX37 was negatively correlated with immune‐related genes PD‐L1, RGS16, and TOX, and it was positively associated with TIM3, LAG3, and NCOR2. Through biofunctional analysis, we observed that DHX37 was significantly enriched in cancer‐related pathways such as cell cycle, DNA replication, mismatch repair, RNA degradation, and RNA polymerase. In conclusion, the study explored the significance of DHX37 in human cancers. DHX37 may serve as a potential target for cancer immunotherapy.
The Value of Combined Detection of D‐dimer and CD62p in Judging the Severity of Acute Cerebral Infarction and Short‐Term Prognosis
Authors: Xu Min , He Xiao-ying , Huang Pan
Published: January 2021

Objective. To explore the value of combined detection of peripheral blood P‐selectin (CD62p) and D‐dimer (D‐dimer) in the judgment of acute cerebral infarction severity and short‐term prognosis. Methods. 268 patients with acute cerebral infarction from February 2015 to February 2019 were selected as the observation group. According to the National Institute of Health stroke scale, there were 90 cases (SCI group), 88 cases (MOCI group), and 90cases (MICI group) in the severe, moderate, and mild cerebral infarction groups, respectively. In the same period, 80 cases of healthy people served as the Normal group. Use flow cytometry to detect CD62p in peripheral blood and magnetic bead method to detect D‐dimer level within 24 hours of onset. Logistic regression was used to analyze whether the two are factors affecting the short‐term prognosis of acute cerebral infarction, and the ROC curve was drawn to evaluate the value of the combined detection of the two in the short‐term prognosis of patients with acute cerebral infarction. Results. Peripheral blood D‐dimer and CD62p levels (2.95 ± 0.76 ng/l, 34.03 ± 5.29 ng/l) in the SCI group were higher than those in the MOCI group (2.30 ± 0.51 ng/l, 27.58 ± 5.56 ng/l) and the MICI group (1.87 ± 0.40 ng/l, 19.60 ± 3.98 ng/l); the difference between the groups was statistically significant (P < 0.05). Logistic regression analysis showed that D‐dimer and CD62p were independent risk factors affecting the poor prognosis of patients with acute cerebral infarction (OR values were 3.752 and 1.213, and 95% CI were 1.612‐7.934 and 1.093‐1.342, respectively, both P < 0.05). The AUC of D‐dimer combined with CD62p for predicting poor prognosis of acute cerebral infarction is 0.859, which is better than D‐dimer and CD62p alone. Conclusion. Peripheral blood D‐dimer combined with CD62p detection is helpful for the risk stratification and short‐term prognosis assessment of patients with acute cerebral infarction. Clinical detection is of great significance for the prevention and monitoring of disease development.
IL-1 Receptor Antagonist Protects the Osteogenesis Capability of Gingival-Derived Stem/Progenitor Cells under Inflammatory Microenvironment Induced by Porphyromonas gingivalis Lipopolysaccharides
Authors: Zhao Yuxin , Cai Bobo , Zhu Weijun , Shi Jue , Wang Yu , Si Misi
Published: January 2021

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been considered to be a future treatment option for periodontitis due to their excellent regenerative capability. However, it is still a challenge to protect MSCs’ biological properties from multiple bacterial toxins in local inflammatory environment. The present study is aimed at investigating the treatment effect of interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1ra) on cell proliferation, migration, and osteogenic differentiation of gingival-derived mesenchymal stem cells (GMSCs) under an inflammatory microenvironment induced by Porphyromonas gingivalis lipopolysaccharides (P. gingivalis-LPS). GMSCs derived from Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats’ free gingival tissues were treated with P. gingivalis-LPS (10 μg/mL) to create in vitro inflammatory environment. Different concentrations of IL-1ra (0.01-1 μg/mL) were used to antagonize the negative effect of LPS. Cell behaviors including proliferation, cloning formation unit (CFU), cell migration, osteogenic differentiation, mineral deposition, and cytokine production were assessed to investigate the protection effect of IL-1ra on GMSCs under inflammation. The toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)/nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) pathway activated by LPS was evaluated by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and western blot. In response to P. gingivalis-LPS treatment, cell numbers, cloning formation rate, cell migration rate, proinflammatory cytokine production, and osteogenic differentiation-associated protein/mRNA expressions as well as mineralized nodules were suppressed in a time-dependent manner. These negative effects were effectively attenuated by IL-1ra administration in a time- and dose-dependent manner. In addition, mRNA expressions of TLR4 and IkBα decreased dramatically when IL-1ra was added into LPS-induced medium. IL-1ra also reversed the LPS-induced TLR4/NF-κB activation as indicated by western blot. The present study revealed that IL-1ra decreased inflammatory cytokine production in a supernatant, so as to protect GMSCs’ osteogenesis capacity and other biological properties under P. gingivalis-LPS-induced inflammatory environment. This might be explained by IL-1ra downregulating TLR4-mediated NF-κB signaling pathway activation.
New Generalizations of Set Valued Interpolative Hardy-Rogers Type Contractions in b-Metric Spaces
Authors: Ali Muhammad Usman , Aydi Hassen , Alansari Monairah
Published: January 2021

Debnath and De La Sen introduced the notion of set valued interpolative Hardy-Rogers type contraction mappings on b-metric spaces and proved that on a complete b-metric space, whose all closed and bounded subsets are compact, the set valued interpolative Hardy-Rogers type contraction mapping has a fixed point. This article presents generalizations of above results by omitting the assumption that all closed and bounded subsets are compact.
Reservoir Characteristics and Its Comprehensive Evaluation of Gray Relational Analysis on the Western Sulige Gas Field, Ordos Basin, China
Authors: Liang Xinping , Xie Qingbin , He Mingyu , Liu Quanyou , Morozov Vladimir
Published: January 2021

Although the Sulige gas field has been developed for several years, accurate reservoir classification, evaluation, and prediction is still a worth-exploring scientific issue as this is a necessary procedure which could give the guidance of well deployment during later gas field development. Here, based on the analysis of lithological features and diagenesis, we give an evaluation of gas reservoirs in the western Sulige gas field by using the improved method of gray relational analysis. Our results show that the study area Su-54 block is dominated by low permeability and low porosity litharenite and lithic silicarenite with clear evidence of strong diagenesis processes. Compaction is believed to be relatively strong due to the great burial depth and destroy most of the primary pores. Based on the premise of a lower limit of an effective reservoir, we select five parameters (permeability (

K

), porosity (

Φ

), effective sand thickness (

M

), effective sand/sand thickness ratio (

D

), and gas saturation (

S

g

)) to calculate the correlation coefficient, relational degree, and index weights for reservoir quality evaluation. By weighted gray correlation theory, the dynamic testing data—effective thickness of gas production data—is used as mother sequences. The results show that the predicted favorable areas for gas exploration and development coincide well with sedimentary and sand body distribution (e.g., point bars and central bars) in the study block; well blocks such as s372, s373, s374, and e24 could be future key development targets. This also indicates a broader application of the gray relational analysis to quality evaluation and distribution prediction of reservoirs. Therefore, our findings could give a new theoretical and practical guidance for the later gas exploration and development, for the search of hidden stratigraphic lithological traps, and for the improvement of the proven rate of oil and gas resources in this area.