bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Isoprostanoids, Isofuranoids and Isoketals – From Synthesis to Lipidomics
Authors: Vigor Claire , Balas Laurence , Guy Alexandre , Bultel‐Poncé Valérie , Reversat Guillaume , Galano Jean‐Marie , Durand Thierry , Oger Camille
Published: January 2022

A huge diversity of oxygenated metabolites originated from polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) had been discovered. Radical cascades are involved in the biosynthesis of these metabolites, and the radical initiation can be performed either inside the active site of an enzyme in the extracellular medium, or in membrane on phospholipids. The development of convergent and flexible chemical strategies to prepare these compounds by organic chemists, along with the development of sophisticated mass spectrometry methods, has boosted the knowledge regarding PUFA metabolites. Also, isoprostanoids have emerged as indicators of oxidative stress in humans and their environment. This Review provides a brief overview on the chemical strategies and analytical methods achieved over the past thirty years.
A case study exploring the impact of JCI standards implementation on staff productivity and motivation at the laboratory and blood bank
Authors: Tarieh Rima Ramzi Abou , Zayyat Ramez , Naoufal Rania Nazir , Samaha Hanady Rafic
Published: January 2022

Background and Aims

Quality of care has transformed to become an essential element of healthcare service delivery, which caused decision makers in Health Care Organisations (HCOs) to seek methods to evaluate the level of care provided. The field of accreditation is under massive development, especially in healthcare organizations. Joint Commission International (JCI) accreditation is one of the accreditation bodies that require a lot of documentation and quality improvement to guarantee proper standard application. The process of accreditation is known to be demanding and requires staff involvement to guarantee successful implementation.

Methods

This study focuses on the impact of JCI standards implementation on staff productivity and motivation in a 350‐bed hospital. An interpretive approach was used to collect empirical data by interpreting the population's behavior, which is represented in this study by the questionnaire. The study is considered an emergent study that identified, explained, illustrated, and developed a model of staff motivation. In this type of study, the process of inquiry, supporting arguments, and questions of interest is developed after the launching of the study and during the process of data collection. Thus, the researcher relied on the social constructive paradigm, whereby the grounded theory (GT) is used to build the research model of staff motivation during the process of accreditation.

Results

By studying the Turn Around Time (TAT) performance indicator, the study showed that TAT of tests decreased by 3% after JCI standards implementation, which was reflected at two different laboratory sections. The trainings conducted throughout the process of standards implementation also resulted in enhancing the quality of samples, which was demonstrated by the decrease in the percentage of rejected samples.

Conclusion

Staff productivity increases when JCI standards are implemented. However, staff motivation is dependent on their involvement with management decisions and the smooth transition through change management, which ensures staff retention and therefore increase productivity.
Measuring morality in infancy: A scoping methodological review
Authors: Lavoie Jennifer , Murray Aja L. , Skinner Guy , Janiczek Emilia
Published: January 2022

We conducted a scoping review of methods that have been used to measure infants' (under age 2) moral development. We aimed to assess the state of knowledge through a thematic overview of the methodologies that have been used and the specific constructs studied. We found that the majority of studies used an experimental methodology, and within this, infants' actual behaviour and their evaluations were the most common sources of information. An evidence map depicting concept delineation between studies and presenting concepts as related to an underlying moral sense, as prosocial (emotion and behaviour), and as antisocial components (emotion and behaviour) is provided. Just under one‐third of studies were longitudinal, and a high percentage reported a statistically significant longitudinal relation for moral development. Results highlight a need for measures that can be used longitudinally at different stages of development so that trajectories can be observed and mapped to behavioural outcomes, such as conduct problems.
Factors associated with mortality in hospitalized cardiovascular disease patients infected with COVID‐19
Authors: Alizadehsani Roohallah , Eskandarian Rahimeh , Behjati Mohaddeseh , Zahmatkesh Mehrdad , Roshanzamir Mohamad , Izadi Navid H. , Shoeibi Afshin , Haddadi Azadeh , Khozeimeh Fahime , Sani Fariba A. , Sani Zahra A. , Roshanzamir Zahra , Khosravi Abbas , Nahavandi Saeid , Sarrafzadegan Nizal , Islam Sheikh Mohammed Shariful
Published: January 2022

Introduction

To reduce mortality in hospitalized patients with COVID‐19 and cardiovascular disease (CVD), it is necessary to understand the relationship between patient's symptoms, risk factors, and comorbidities with their mortality rate. To the best of our knowledge, this paper is the first which take into account the determinants like risk factors, symptoms, and comorbidities leading to mortality in CVD patients who are hospitalized with COVID‐19.

Methods

This study was conducted on 660 hospitalized patients with CVD and COVID‐19 recruited between January 2020 and January 2021 in Iran. All patients were diagnosed with the previous history of CVD like angina, myocardial infarction, heart failure, cardiomyopathy, abnormal heart rhythms, and congenital heart disease before they were hospitalized for COVID‐19. We collected data on patient's signs and symptoms, clinical and paraclinical examinations, and any underlying comorbidities. t test was used to determine the significant difference between the two deceased and alive groups. In addition, the relation between pairs of symptoms and pairs of comorbidities has been determined via correlation computation.

Results

Our findings suggest that signs and symptoms such as fever, cough, myalgia, chest pain, chills, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and anorexia had no impact on patients' mortality. There was a significant correlation between COVID‐19 cardiovascular patients' mortality rate and symptoms such as headache, loss of consciousness (LOC), oxygen saturation less than 93%, and need for mechanical ventilation.

Conclusions

Our results might help physicians identify early symptoms, comorbidities, and risk factors related to mortality in CVD patients hospitalized for COVID‐19.
Modeling pathways to non‐suicidal self‐injury: The roles of perfectionism, negative affect, rumination, and attention control
Authors: Tonta Kate E. , Boyes Mark , Howell Joel , McEvoy Peter , Johnson Andrew , Hasking Penelope
Published: January 2022

Objective

Using the Emotional Cascade Model as a theoretical framework, this study tested whether the relationship between perfectionism and non‐suicidal self‐injury (NSSI) operates through rumination and negative affect. Additionally, we tested whether the associations between perfectionism and both rumination and negative affect are moderated by attention control.

Methods

Using a correlational cross‐sectional design, adults aged 18–25 with (N = 197) and without (N = 271) a history of NSSI completed measures of perfectionism, rumination, negative affect, attention control, and NSSI.

Results

Perfectionism was directly associated with increased odds of NSSI, and indirectly associated with odds of NSSI through rumination and negative affect. The relationship between perfectionism and rumination was moderated by attention focusing, such that the relationship was stronger for individuals who were higher in attention focusing.

Conclusion

Integrating perfectionism and attention with existing models of NSSI may improve understanding of the factors contributing to NSSI and offers insights into future clinical directions.
Pharmacokinetic/Pharmacodynamic Parameters of Linezolid in the Epithelial Lining Fluid of Patients With Sepsis
Authors: Wu Changde , Zhang Xiwen , Xie Jianfeng , Li Qing , He Jie , Hu Linlin , Wang Haofei , Liu Airan , Xu Jingyuan , Yang Congshan , Yang Yi , Qiu Haibo , Huang Yingzi
Published: January 2022

The aim of this study was to investigate the pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic parameters of linezolid in both the plasma and epithelial lining fluid (ELF) of patients with pneumonia‐induced sepsis. Blood specimens and bronchoalveolar lavage samples were collected at defined time points after administration of linezolid. The concentration in the ELF was calculated by urea dilution method. PK parameters were calculated, and probability of target attainment was evaluated by Monte Carlo simulations. Twenty‐three patients were enrolled, 8 of whom had septic shock. The maximum concentration of linezolid was higher in the ELF than in the plasma (36.02 ± 13.17 vs 19.51±4.83 mg/L, P < .001) in all of the patients. In patients with septic shock, the maximum concentration in the ELF was significantly higher than that in the non–septic shock group (45.25 ± 11.70 vs 31.10 ± 11.38 mg/L, P = .01), while there was no significant difference in the plasma. The corresponding probability of target attainment values were 90.5% and 65.1% in ELF and plasma, respectively, with a minimum inhibitory concentration of 2 mg/L, which were 99.9% in the ELF in the patients with septic shock. Linezolid possesses an efficient penetration into the ELF of patients with pneumonia‐induced sepsis with mechanical ventilation. When minimum inhibitory concentration ≤ 2 mg/L, 600 mg of linezolid every 12 hours could achieve the optimal therapeutic targets in the ELF rather than in the plasma of patients with pneumonia‐induced sepsis.
Fabrication of green poly (L‐lactic acid) hybrid membrane through incorporation of functionalized natural halloysite nanotubes
Authors: Wang Baoyu , He Huifen , Li Yuling , Liu Congjun , Bai Junjing , Zhou Xiumiao , Li Jingjing , Wang Yufen
Published: January 2022

BACKGROUND

Membrane technology has attracted increasing interest in the field of separation and purification. Unfortunately, conventional membrane materials are usually derived from non‐renewable fossil resources that are difficult to degrade at the end of their life. In this work, as a sustainable alternative to the conventional polymer membrane, the biobased ploy (L‐lactic acid) (PLLA) hybrid membrane was successfully fabricated through the incorporation of modified natural halloysite nanotubes (HNTs).

RESULTS

The PLLA/HNT hybrid membranes were analysed by attenuated total reflectance‐Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR‐FTIR), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), and contact angle measurement. The pure water flux of the hybrid membrane increased from 140.3 to 329.7 L.m−3.h−1, while the bovine serum albumin (BSA) rejection ratio decreased from 94.3 to 82.7% with increasing HNT loading content from 0 to 1 wt%. Moreover, the addition of HNTs could also enhance the antifouling performance of the hybrid membrane.

CONCLUSION

The green PLLA/HNT hybrid membrane was successfully made from the recoverable and biodegradable PLLA and naturally occurring HNTs. Compared with the PLLA‐based membranes reported in the literature, the PLLA/HNT hybrid membranes presented relatively high permeability, moderate BSA rejection, and good antifouling performance. The green poly (L‐lactic acid) hybrid membranes hold great promise for practical application as they can contribute to a circular economy and sustainable development. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Applications of operant demand to treatment selection II: Covariance of evidence strength and treatment consumption
Authors: Gilroy Shawn P. , Feck Cassie C.
Published: January 2022

Evidence‐based practices (EBPs) are a critical component of effective and ethical service delivery. Clinicians in the behavioral sciences regularly advocate for the use of therapies and interventions based on the strength and breadth of scientific evidence. However, caregiver choices related to specific behavior therapies are seldom based solely on the degree (or the presence) of scientific evidence. This study applied methods from the Operant Demand Framework to characterize caregiver choices when concurrently available behavior therapies varied in terms of unit price and levels of evidence. Four Hypothetical Treatment Purchase Tasks were designed to evaluate how relative differences in scientific evidence between behavior therapies influenced the demand for, and substitutability of, EBPs. Results from 106 caregivers recruited from the Amazon Mechanical Turk platform indicated that low‐, moderate‐, and high‐evidence treatment choices all functioned as substitutes for a high‐evidence (i.e., well‐established) behavior therapy. A main effect was observed for the level of evidence, whereby the strength of evidence appeared to moderate the degree to which respective treatments functioned as substitutes. These results extend the literature on the factors associated with treatment choices, and specifically, highlight how differences in the degree of scientific evidence influence choice when deciding between behavior therapies. These results are discussed in the context of more effectively advocating for the use of EBPs with mainstream and lay audiences.
Extracellular vesicle‐mediated delivery of circDYM alleviates CUS‐induced depressive‐like behaviours
Authors: Yu Xiaoyu , Bai Ying , Han Bing , Ju Minzi , Tang Tianci , Shen Ling , Li Mingyue , Yang Li , Zhang Zhao , Hu Guoku , Chao Jie , Zhang Yuan , Yao Honghong
Published: January 2022

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is the most prevalent psychiatric disorder worldwide and severely limits psychosocial function and quality of life, but no effective medication is currently available. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have been revealed to participate in the MDD pathological process. Targeted delivery of circRNAs without blood‐brain barrier (BBB) restriction for remission of MDD represents a promising approach for antidepressant therapy. In this study, RVG‐circDYM‐extracellular vesicles (RVG‐circDYM‐EVs) were engineered to target and preferentially transfer circDYM to the brain, and the effect on the pathological process in a chronic unpredictable stress (CUS) mouse model of depression was investigated. The results showed that RVG‐circDYM‐EVs were successfully purified by ultracentrifugation from overexpressed circDYM HEK 293T cells, and the characterization of RVG‐circDYM‐EVs was successfully demonstrated in terms of size, morphology and specific markers. Beyond demonstrating proof‐of‐concept for an RNA drug delivery technology, we observed that systemic administration of RVG‐circDYM‐EVs efficiently delivered circDYM to the brain, and alleviated CUS‐induced depressive‐like behaviours, and we discovered that RVG‐circDYM‐EVs notably inhibited microglial activation, BBB leakiness and peripheral immune cells infiltration, and attenuated astrocyte disfunction induced by CUS. CircDYM can bind mechanistically to the transcription factor TAF1 (TATA‐box binding protein associated factor 1), resulting in the decreased expression of its downstream target genes with consequently suppressed neuroinflammation. Taken together, our findings suggest that extracellular vesicle‐mediated delivery of circDYM is effective for MDD treatment and promising for clinical applications.
Experimental study of a physician‐controlled electrocautery‐enhanced delivery system incorporating a newly developed lumen‐apposing metal stent for interventional endoscopic ultrasound (with videos)
Authors: Mukai Shuntaro , Itoi Takao , Tsuchiya Takayoshi , Ishii Kentaro , Tanaka Reina , Tonozuka Ryosuke , Furuichi Yoshihiro , Joyama Eri , Miyazawa Hideaki , Sofuni Atsushi
Published: January 2022

Background/Purpose

Although the lumen‐apposing metal stent (LAMS) is useful for interventional endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) procedures, there has been some concern about the potential for stent‐induced adverse events because of the high lumen‐apposing force. A newly designed LAMS with less lumen‐apposing force has been developed for use with a physician‐controlled electrocautery‐enhanced delivery system. The aim of this animal study was to evaluate the feasibility of performing interventional EUS using this newly designed LAMS system.

Methods

Endoscopic ultrasound‐guided cystogastrostomy was performed using the novel LAMS three times in a wet simulation model. EUS‐guided gastroenterostomy and EUS‐guided gallbladder drainage were then performed using the system in four pigs.

Results

The LAMS was successfully placed in all three EUS‐guided cystogastrostomy procedures using the wet simulation model and in all four EUS‐guided gastroenterostomy and gallbladder drainage procedures in the animal model. In the 3 weeks following the procedure, eating behavior was normal in all animals and there were no adverse events. The stents remained patent during this time and were removed without difficulty. The fistula was mature in all cases and a standard upper gastrointestinal endoscope was easily advanced via the fistula to observe the afferent and efferent loops or the lumen of the gallbladder. Necropsy confirmed complete adhesion between the stomach and the wall of the jejunum or gallbladder.

Conclusions

Our study findings demonstrate the feasibility of this new LAMS system and its potential clinical value for interventional EUS.
Do not forget the children: a model‐based analysis on the potential impact of COVID‐19‐associated interruptions in paediatric HIV prevention and care
Authors: Flanagan Clare F. , McCann Nicole , Stover John , Freedberg Kenneth A. , Ciaranello Andrea L.
Published: January 2022

Introduction

The COVID‐19 pandemic has affected women and children globally, disrupting antiretroviral therapy (ART) services and exacerbating pre‐existing barriers to care for both pregnant women and paediatric populations.

Methods

We used the Spectrum modelling package and the CEPAC‐Pediatric model to project the impact of COVID‐19‐associated care disruptions on three key populations in the 21 Global Plan priority countries in sub‐Saharan Africa: (1) pregnant and breastfeeding women living with HIV and their children, (2) all children (aged 0–14 years) living with HIV (CLWH), regardless of their engagement in care and (3) CLWH who were engaged in care and on ART prior to the start of the pandemic. We projected clinical outcomes over the 12‐month period of 1 March 2020 to 1 March 2021.

Results

Compared to a scenario with no care disruption, in a 3‐month lockdown with complete service disruption, followed by 3 additional months of partial (50%) service disruption, a projected 755,400 women would have received PMTCT care (a 21% decrease), 187,800 new paediatric HIV infections would have occurred (a 77% increase) and 516,800 children would have received ART (a 35% decrease). For children on ART as of March 2020, we projected 507,200 would have experienced ART failure (an 80% increase). Additionally, a projected 88,400 AIDS‐related deaths would have occurred (a 27% increase) between March 2020 and March 2021, with 51,700 of those deaths occurring among children engaged in care as of March 2020 (a 54% increase).

Conclusions

While efforts will continue to curb morbidity and mortality stemming directly from COVID‐19 itself, it is critical that providers also consider the immediate and indirect harms of this pandemic, particularly among vulnerable populations. Well‐informed, timely action is critical to meet the health needs of pregnant women and children if the global community is to maintain momentum towards an AIDS‐free generation.
Does conservation tillage on partially reclaimed sodic soil restore land degradation by influencing boron dynamics, bioavailability for plant's uptake and nutritional security?
Authors: Jha Sunil Kumar , Mishra Vinay Kumar , Damodaran Thukkaram , Singh Atul Kumar , Singh Yash Pal , Sharma Dinesh Kumar
Published: January 2022

Boron (B) is nutritionally important for plants, humans and animals but its deficiency in soil and plants has become a global problem and may affect the nutritional quality of food. The widespread crop residue (CR) burning on farms is another environmental and land degradation problem, causing ecological threats to agriculture. Addressing these issues, a field experiment was initiated for B restoration by incorporating CR into partially reclaimed sodic soil under conservation tillage (zero or reduced tillage) and the results were compared with conventional tillage practices. We studied extensively the B‐dynamics, bioavailability, interaction with soil properties, uptake in rice and wheat, and plausible contribution in human dietary intake, upon consumption of rice and wheat. Results indicated that zero tillage and CR retention on the soil surface had a significant impact on soil B fractions. The readily soluble B, organically bound B varied from 0.1% to 2% and 11.8% to 39.4% of total B, respectively, and hot water extractable B was found highest in zero tillage. Readily soluble B had significant (p < 0.05) negative correlation with pH (r = −0.54), clay (r = −0.64), and CaCO3(r = −0.54). The highest B uptake was noticed in rice under zero tillage, where CR was retained on the soil surface. Dietary intake of B was assessed in terms of estimated daily intake, which was maximum in heavy activity men (0.0166 mg kg−1 d−1), conform to 0.02 mg kg−1 d−1, as prescribed by the World Health Organization. Thus, the study suggested that conservation tillage may be instrumental in the restoration of land degradation by building B in soil and contributes to nutritional security.
Graft Fibrosis Over 10 to 15 Years in Pediatric Liver Transplant Recipients: Multicenter Study of Paired, Longitudinal Surveillance Biopsies
Authors: Perito Emily R. , Persyn Elodie , Bucuvalas John , Martinez Mercedes , Mohammad Saeed , Squires James E. , Demetris Anthony J. , Feng Sandy
Published: January 2022

Previous single‐center, cross‐sectional studies have reported a steep increase in the prevalence and severity of fibrosis through 10 to 15 years after pediatric liver transplantation. We report a multicenter study of paired surveillance biopsies in a contemporary cohort. Children who underwent liver transplant when younger than 6 years old and had paired surveillance liver biopsies were enrolled (n = 78, 35% girls, median 1.2 years old at transplant). A central pathologist graded inflammation, assessed rejection activity index, and staged fibrosis in the portal, sinusoidal, and perivenular compartments, allowing for calculation of the Liver Allograft Fibrosis Score (LAFSc). Analysis of variance tested associations between fibrosis progression and clinical parameters. The first biopsy, at a median 8.2 years (interquartile range, 5.9‐11.6 years) after transplantation, showed absent to mild fibrosis (LAFSc 0‐2) in 29%, moderate (LAFSc 3‐5) in 56%, and severe (LAFSc 6‐7) in 14% of patients. The second biopsy, at a median 4.7 years (IQR, 4.3‐5.1 years) later, showed fibrosis progression (LAFSc increased by ≥3) in 10 (13%) and regression (LAFSc decreased by ≥3) in 4 (5%) patients. After adjusting for baseline LAFSc, younger age at transplant was the only risk factor for fibrosis progression. Although fibrosis prevalence and severity 6 to 12 years after transplant was similar to previous reports, fibrosis trajectory during the next 4 to 5 years was stable. Our data may be reassuring for children with consistently normal liver tests. A comprehensive understanding of factors determining allograft health during the very long term is essential to optimizing allograft and patient health.
Chondroitin and Dermatan Sulfate Bioinks for 3D Bioprinting and Cartilage Regeneration
Authors: Lafuente‐Merchan Markel , Ruiz‐Alonso Sandra , Zabala Alaitz , Gálvez‐Martín Patricia , Marchal Juan Antonio , Vázquez‐Lasa Blanca , Gallego Idoia , Saenz‐del‐Burgo Laura , Pedraz Jose Luis
Published: January 2022

Cartilage is a connective tissue which a limited capacity for healing and repairing. In this context, osteoarthritis (OA) disease may be developed with high prevalence in which the use of scaffolds may be a promising treatment. In addition, three‐dimensional (3D) bioprinting has become an emerging additive manufacturing technology because of its rapid prototyping capacity and the possibility of creating complex structures. This study is focused on the development of nanocellulose‐alginate (NC‐Alg) based bioinks for 3D bioprinting for cartilage regeneration to which it is added chondroitin sulfate (CS) and dermatan sulfate (DS). First, rheological properties are evaluated. Then, sterilization effect, biocompatibility, and printability on developed NC‐Alg‐CS and NC‐Alg‐DS inks are evaluated. Subsequently, printed scaffolds are characterized. Finally, NC‐Alg‐CS and NC‐Alg‐DS inks are loaded with murine D1‐MSCs‐EPO and cell viability and functionality, as well as the chondrogenic differentiation ability are assessed. Results show that the addition of both CS and DS to the NC‐Alg ink improves its characteristics in terms of rheology and cell viability and functionality. Moreover, differentiation to cartilage is promoted on NC‐Alg‐CS and NC‐Alg‐DS scaffolds. Therefore, the utilization of MSCs containing NC‐Alg‐CS and NC‐Alg‐DS scaffolds may become a feasible tissue engineering approach for cartilage regeneration.
Fabrication of Antibacterial, Osteo‐Inductor 3D Printed Aerogel‐Based Scaffolds by Incorporation of Drug Laden Hollow Mesoporous Silica Microparticles into the Self‐Assembled Silk Fibroin Biopolymer
Authors: Ng Philipp , Pinho Ana Rita , Gomes Maria C. , Demidov Yan , Krakor Eva , Grume Daniela , Herb Marc , Lê Khan , Mano João , Mathur Sanjay , Maleki Hajar
Published: January 2022

In this study, the novel biomimetic aerogel‐based composite scaffolds through a synergistic combination of wet chemical synthesis and advanced engineering approaches have successfully designed. To this aim, initially the photo‐crosslinkable methacrylated silk fibroin (SF‐MA) biopolymer and methacrylated hollow mesoporous silica microcapsules (HMSC‐MA) as the main constituents of the novel composite aerogels were synthesized. Afterward, by incorporation of drug‐loaded HMSC‐MA into the self‐assembled SF‐MA, printable gel‐based composite inks are developed. By exploiting micro‐extrusion‐based three‐dimensional (3D) printing, SF‐MA‐HMSC composite gels are printed by careful controlling their viscosity to provide a means to control the shape fidelity of the resulted printed gel constructs. The developed scaffold has shown a multitude of interesting biophysical and biological performances. Namely, thanks to the photo‐crosslinking of the gel components during the 3D printing, the scaffolds become mechanically more stable than the pristine SF scaffolds. Also, freeze‐casting the printed constructs generates further interconnectivity in the printed pore struts resulting in the scaffolds with hierarchically organized porosities necessary for cell infiltration and growth. Importantly, HMSC incorporated scaffolds promote antibacterial drug delivery, cellular ingrowth and proliferation, promoting osteoblastic differentiation by inducing the expression of osteogenic markers and matrix mineralization. Finally, the osteoconductive, ‐inductive, and anti‐infective composite aerogels are expected to act as excellent bone implanting materials with an extra feature of local and sustained release of drug for efficient therapy of bone‐related diseases.
Quaternized Branched Polyethyleneimine Modified Nitrogen‐Doped Graphene Quantum Dots/Quaternized Polysulfone Composite Anion Exchange Membranes with Improved Performance
Authors: Dong Dawei , Zhang Minghua , Xiao Yafei , Yang Zhaojie , Wang Ke , Fan Minmin
Published: January 2022

Anion exchange membrane (AEM) is essential for the development of alkaline anion exchange membrane fuel cells, and its performance largely depends on its internal microstructure. Herein, to improve the performance of AEM, quaternized branched polyethyleneimine modified nitrogen‐doped graphene quantum dots (QBPEI@N‐GQDs) are introduced to quaternized polysulfone (QPSU) polymer matrix to prepare a series of QPSU/QBPEI@N‐GQDs (QQ‐n‐N‐GQDs) composite AEMs. Due to the uniform distribution of hydrophilic QBPEI@N‐GQDs, an obvious hydrophilic/hydrophobic microphase separation structure is formed inside the QQ‐n‐N‐GQDs composite AEMs. Compared with the pristine QPSU AEM, the QQ‐0.7%‐N‐GQDs AEM shows slightly higher water uptake (WU) and swelling ratio (SR), as well as much higher ionic conductivity (76.18 mS cm−1 at 80 °C for QQ‐0.7%‐N‐GQDs AEM versus 46.14 mS cm−1 at 80 °C for pristine QPSU AEM) and better maximum power density of single fuel cell (85.2 mW cm−2 for QQ‐0.7%‐N‐GQDs AEM versus 46.3 mW cm−2 for QPSU AEM). Moreover, the chemical stability of QQ‐n‐N‐GQDs composite AEMs has not been significantly adversely affected by the introduction of QBPEI@N‐GQDs.
Evaluating diffusion dispersion across an extended range of b‐values and frequencies: Exploiting gap‐filled OGSE shapes, strong gradients, and spiral readouts
Authors: Michael Eric Seth , Hennel Franciszek , Pruessmann Klaas Paul
Published: January 2022

Purpose

To address the long echo times and relatively weak diffusion sensitization that typically limit oscillating gradient spin‐echo (OGSE) experiments, an OGSE implementation combining spiral readouts, gap‐filled oscillating gradient shapes providing stronger diffusion encoding, and a high‐performance gradient system is developed here and utilized to investigate the tradeoff between b‐value and maximum OGSE frequency in measurements of diffusion dispersion (i.e., the frequency dependence of diffusivity) in the in vivo human brain. In addition, to assess the effects of the marginal flow sensitivity introduced by these OGSE waveforms, flow‐compensated variants are devised for experimental comparison.

Methods

Using DTI sequences, OGSE acquisitions were performed on three volunteers at b‐values of 300, 500, and 1000 s/mm2 and frequencies up to 125, 100, and 75 Hz, respectively; scans were performed for gap‐filled oscillating gradient shapes with and without flow sensitivity. Pulsed gradient spin‐echo DTI acquisitions were also performed at each b‐value. Upon reconstruction, mean diffusivity (MD) maps and maps of the diffusion dispersion rate were computed.

Results

The power law diffusion dispersion model was found to fit best to MD measurements acquired at b = 1000 s/mm2 despite the associated reduction of the spectral range; this observation was consistent with Monte Carlo simulations. Furthermore, diffusion dispersion rates without flow sensitivity were slightly higher than flow‐sensitive measurements.

Conclusion

The presented OGSE implementation provided an improved depiction of diffusion dispersion and demonstrated the advantages of measuring dispersion at higher b‐values rather than higher frequencies within the regimes employed in this study.
Debating Future Displays (and Interfaces) for Electric Vehicles
Authors: Pala Silviu
Published: January 2022

Achieving good legibility and high contrast ratio are continuous challenges for future display and interfaces technology.
Beware of Legacy Manganese Issues in Distribution Systems
Authors: Hill Andrew S. , Lemieux France
Published: January 2022

Manganese (Mn) releases within water distribution systems aren't always apparent, as in their effect on the aesthetic quality of water. Still, even without obvious visual signs, legacy Mn can present public health risks. Water utilities should develop a comprehensive Mn control strategy to safeguard water quality to the tap.
Inheritance and fitness cost of buprofezin resistance in a near‐isogenic, field‐derived strain and insecticide resistance monitoring ofLaodelphax striatellusin China
Authors: Zeng Bin , Liu Ya‐Ting , Zhang Wen‐Jing , Feng Ze‐Rui , Wu Shun‐Fan , Gao Cong‐Fen
Published: January 2022

BACKGROUND

Laodelphax striatellusis one of the most destructive pests of rice and other cereal crops. Chemical control is still the most efficient way to control this pest, but insecticide resistance always threatens this approach.

RESULTS

Monitoring data (2003–2020) showed that Chinese field populations ofL. striatellusdeveloped high‐level buprofezin resistance within the first four years. This high‐level resistance to buprofezin was stable for about ten years and persisted even when buprofezin selection pressure was absent. An established near‐isogenic strain (YN‐NIS) with 90.8‐fold resistance to buprofezin had resistance inheritance of autosomal and incomplete dominance, and the resistance was controlled by multiple genes with no obvious fitness costs (relative fitness of 0.8707). Furthermore, the susceptibility of 29 field populations to another seven insecticides (2014–2020) showed that: (i) low‐level resistance to pymetrozine, dinotefuran, sulfoxaflor and thiamethoxam was first detected in 2014 (eight years after introduction), 2016 (three years after), 2017 (four years after) and 2019 (19 years after), respectively, (ii) moderate resistance levels to chlorpyrifos were found for all populations across multiple years, and (iii) no resistance was detected for nitenpyram and triflumezopyrim.

CONCLUSION

The fast buprofezin resistance development inL. striatelluswould be caused by incomplete dominant resistance with almost no fitness cost in the resistant strain. Nitenpyram and triflumezopyrim showed no resistance and can be used as the main insecticide for the control ofL. striatellus. These findings provide key fundamental information for controllingL. striatellus.
Getting right to the heart of the problem
Authors: Head Steve
Published: January 2022

With the benefit of hindsight, Dr Steve Head reminisces on where his fellow medical professionals may have gone wrong in the past when managing patients with heart disease.
Beneficial effects of Ilex paraguariensis in the prevention of obesity‐associated metabolic disorders in mice
Authors: Valença Helber da Maia , e Silva Cyntia Pecli , de Brito Gitirana Lycia , Valença Samuel Santos , Lanzetti Manuella
Published: January 2022

Obesity is a chronic condition involving inflammation and oxidative stress that commonly predisposes affected individuals to develop metabolic disorders. We hypothesize that Ilex paraguariensis (IP) can modulate oxidative stress and inflammation underpinning metabolic disorders caused by obesity. C57BL/6 mice were fed a high‐fat diet (HFD group) for 12 weeks. Concomitantly, some mice were treated with roasted IP (15 mg/ml – HFD + IP) or dimethyl fumarate (DMF) as a positive control (2 mg/ml – HFD + DMF). The control group received standard chow and water ad libitum. Histological analyses of fat tissue and liver, and quantification of mediators related to oxidative stress (Kelch‐like ECH‐associated protein 1/NF‐E2‐related factor 2, NADP(H) quinone oxidoreductase‐1 [NQO1], heme oxygenase 1 [HO1], and superoxide dismutase) as well as metabolic profile blood biomarkers (glucose, leptin, resistin, high‐density lipoproteins [HDLs], and triglycerides) were performed. Metabolic disorders were prevented in mice treated with IP, as evidenced by the observation that glucose, HDL, and resistin levels were similar to those assessed in the control group. Morphological analyses showed that both IP and DMF treatments prevented hepatic steatosis and adipocyte hypertrophy in visceral adipose tissue. Finally, although the antioxidant response stimulated by IP was quite limited, significant effects were found on NQO1 and HO1 expression. In conclusion, IP has promising preventative effects on the development of metabolic disorders caused by obesity.
Rapid Synthesis of High‐Entropy Oxide Microparticles
Authors: Dong Qi , Hong Min , Gao Jinlong , Li Tangyuan , Cui Mingjin , Li Shuke , Qiao Haiyu , Brozena Alexandra H. , Yao Yonggang , Wang Xizheng , Chen Gang , Luo Jian , Hu Liangbing
Published: January 2022

High‐entropy nanoparticles have received notable attention due to their tunable properties and broad material space. However, these nanoparticles are not suitable for certain applications (e.g., battery electrodes), where their microparticle (submicron to micron) counterparts are more preferred. Conventional methods used for synthesizing high‐entropy nanoparticles often involve various ultrafast shock processes. To increase the size thereby achieving high‐entropy microparticles, longer reaction time (e.g., heating duration) is usually used, which may also lead to undesired particle overgrowth or even densified microstructures. In this work, an approach based on Joule heating for synthesizing high‐entropy oxide (HEO) microparticles with uniform elemental distribution is reported. In particular, two key synthesis conditions are identified to achieve high‐quality HEO microparticles: 1) the precursors need to be loosely packed to avoid densification; 2) the heating time needs to be accurately controlled to tens of seconds instead of using milliseconds (thermal shock) that leads to nanoparticles or longer heating duration that forms bulk structures. The utility of the synthesized HEO microparticles for a range of applications, including high‐performance Li‐ion battery anode and water oxidation catalyst. This study opens up a new door toward synthesizing high‐entropy microparticles with high quality and broad material space.
Deciphering the Precursor–Performance Relationship of Single‐Atom Iron Oxygen Electroreduction Catalysts via Isomer Engineering
Authors: Hong Yaoshuai , Li Longbin , Huang Bingyu , Tang Xiannong , Zhai Weijuan , Hu Ting , Yuan Kai , Chen Yiwang
Published: January 2022

Single atom Fe–nitrogen–carbon (Fe–N–C) catalysts have high catalytic activity and selectivity for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR), and are possible alternatives for Pt‐based materials. However, the reasonable design and selection of precursors to establish their relationship with Fe–N–C catalyst performance is still a formidable task. Herein, precursors with controllable structures are easily achieved through isomer engineering, with the purpose of regulating the active site density and microscopic morphology of the final electrocatalyst. As‐proof‐of‐concept, phenylenediamine isomers‐based polymers are used as precursors to fabricate Fe–N–C catalysts. The Fe–PpPD‐800 derived from p‐phenylenediamine shows that the best ORR activity with a half‐wave potential (E1/2) reaches 0.892 V vs reversible hydrogen electrode (RHE), which is better than the counterparts derived from o‐phenylenediamine (Fe–PoPD‐800) and m‐phenylenediamine (Fe–PmPD‐800), even surpassing commercial Pt/C (E1/2 = 0.881 V vs RHE). Furthermore, the self‐made zinc–air battery based on Fe–PpPD‐800 achieves high power density and specific capacity up to 242 mW cm−2 and 873 mA h gZn−1 respectively, a stable open circuit voltage of 1.45 V, and excellent cycling stability. This work not only proves the practicability of adjusting the catalytic activity of single‐atom catalysts through isomer engineering, but also provides an approach to understand the relationship between precursors and target catalysts performance.
Mechanical and Degradation Properties of Thermoplastic Starch Reinforced Nanocomposites
Authors: Behera Ajaya Kumar , Srivastava Rohit , Das Anath B.
Published: January 2022

Fossil oil derived materials exhibit non‐degradable properties with a limited availability. To overcome these limitations, a biodegradable starch/poly(ε‐caprolactone) based Coloisite‐20A nanocomposites are developed in this research study. The overall performance of these newly developed nanocomposite materials is deeply investigated. First, the morphological analysis of the nanocomposites is examined using X‐ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, and atomic force microscopy. Thereafter, mechanical performance of the nanocomposites is analyzed through tensile and flexural tests. The water‐based contact angle and sorption testing are conducted to confirm the hydrophobic or hydrophilic nature of the nanocomposite. Finally, the degradation behavior of this nanocomposite is estimated by the soil‐burial tests followed by Fourier transform infrared analysis, field emission electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. All the experiments are performed for the control and the test samples. The developed nanocomposites exhibit maximum tensile strength of 6.30 MPa with a water sorption of 6.08% for a 24 h of water immersion tests. On the other hand, the soil‐burial degradation reflects a maximum weight loss of 45.4% after 56 days of degradation period. Hence, moderately hydrophobic, low strength, biodegradable hybrid nanocomposites are developed to counter the use of non‐degradable plastic composites.
RC members with a flexural‐strengthening layer of CFRP textile‐reinforced concrete under monotonic and cyclic long‐term loading
Authors: El Ghadioui Redouan , Wagner Juliane , Klein Jonas , Proske Tilo , Curbach Manfred , Graubner Carl‐Alexander
Published: January 2022

Strengthening of existing reinforced concrete (RC) structures by means of externally applied fiber‐reinforced polymer (FRP) reinforcement was and still is an important research topic. CFRP reinforcement is particularly suitable for infrastructure projects where the actual loads have exceeded the predictions made in the past decades and high chloride input due to de‐icing salts is also present. This article presents experimental and theoretical investigations on the structural behavior of RC members strengthened with an externally applied CFRP textile‐reinforced concrete layer under monotonic and cyclic long‐term loading. A precise analysis of the cross‐sectional behavior and the calculation parameters to determine deflections and load‐bearing capacities of the strengthened RC members is conducted. It is shown that the load‐bearing capacity is not influenced by the preceding monotonic or cyclic long‐term loading and despite the many influencing factors, a good agreement between the calculations and experimental data can be achieved.
Empirical approach for the residual flexural tensile strength of steel fiber‐reinforced concrete based on notched three‐point bending tests
Authors: Oettel Vincent , Schulz Markus , Haist Michael
Published: January 2022

When designing steel fiber‐reinforced concrete, for example, according to Model Code 2010, the residual flexural strength values must be specified as fundamental properties. It is often difficult to establish the relationship between residual flexural strength values and the required dosage of steel fibers depending on the type of steel fibers and the concrete quality. For an estimation of the presumably necessary dosage of steel fibers, various empirical approaches exist for the approximate determination of the residual flexural strength values, which, however, are based on different tests and have been almost exclusively been derived on the basis of few or “own” test results of the respective institute. For this reason, the validity of the respective approximation approach is often limited. Using the bending beam database “Steel Fibre Reinforced Concrete”, selected approaches were systematically analyzed and an improved approach for determining the residual flexural strength values of steel fiber‐reinforced concrete was developed.
Breast cancer circulating tumor cells with mesenchymal features—an unreachable target?
Authors: Topa Justyna , Grešner Peter , Żaczek Anna J. , Markiewicz Aleksandra
Published: January 2022

Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) mediate dissemination of solid tumors and can be an early sign of disease progression. Moreover, they show a great potential in terms of non-invasive, longitudinal monitoring of cancer patients. CTCs have been extensively studied in breast cancer (BC) and were shown to present a significant phenotypic plasticity connected with initiation of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Apart from conferring malignant properties, EMT affects CTCs recovery rate, making a significant portion of CTCs from patients’ samples undetected. Wider application of methods and markers designed to isolate and identify mesenchymal CTCs is required to expand our knowledge about the clinical impact of mesenchymal CTCs. Therefore, here we provide a comprehensive review of clinical significance of mesenchymal CTCs in BC together with statistical analysis of previously published data, in which we assessed the suitability of a number of methods/markers used for isolation of CTCs with different EMT phenotypes, both in in vitro spike-in tests with BC cell lines, as well as clinical samples. Results of spiked-in cell lines indicate that, in general, methods not based on epithelial enrichment only, capture mesenchymal CTCs much more efficiently that CellSearch® (golden standard in CTCs detection), but at the same time are not much inferior to Cell Search®, though large variation in recovery rates of added cells among the methods is observed. In clinical samples, where additional CTCs detection markers are needed, positive epithelial-based CTCs enrichment was the most efficient in isolating CTCs with mesenchymal features from non-metastatic BC patients. From the marker side, PI3K and VIM were contributing the most to detection of CTCs with mesenchymal features (in comparison to SNAIL) in non-metastatic and metastatic BC patients, respectively. However, additional data are needed for more robust identification of markers for efficient detection of CTCs with mesenchymal features.
The impact of an open or laparoscopic approach on the development of metachronous peritoneal metastases after primary resection of colorectal cancer: results from a population-based cohort study
Authors: Lurvink Robin J. , Rijken Anouk , Bakkers Checca , Lemmens Valery E. , de Reuver Philip R. , Tuynman Jurriaan B. , Kok Niels F. , Nienhuijs Simon W. , van Erning Felice N. , de Hingh Ignace H. J. T.
Published: January 2022

Background

This study aimed to assess the impact of open or laparoscopic resection of primary colorectal cancer (CRC) on the development of metachronous colorectal peritoneal metastases (CPM) in a population-based cohort.

Materials and methods

This was a retrospective, population-based study of CRC patients who underwent open or laparoscopic resection of the primary tumour in the Netherlands between January 1st and June 30th 2015. Patients with synchronous metastases were excluded. CPM were considered metachronous if diagnosed ≥ 90 days after resection of primary CRC. Multivariable cox regression analysis was performed to correct for tumour location, histology, differentiation, and stage, nodal stage, tumour perforation, primary surgery type, and unclear resection margins.

Results

In total, 1516 CRC patients underwent open resection and 3236 CRC patients underwent laparoscopic resection, with a 3-year cumulative incidence of metachronous CPM of 7.3% and 3.7%, respectively (p < 0.001), after median follow-up of 42 months. Open surgical approach was significantly associated with the development of metachronous CPM: HR 1.4 [95%CI 1.1–1.8]. Other prognostic factors were mucinous adenocarcinoma histology (HR 1.6, 95%CI 1.0–2.5), T4 stage (HR 3.2, 95%CI 2.3–4.5), N1 stage (HR 2.9, 95%CI 2.1–4.0), and N2 stage (HR 4.2, 95%CI 2.9–6.1).

Conclusions

Patients treated with open resection had a significantly higher risk to develop metachronous CPM than patients treated with laparoscopic resection. The mechanisms underlying this phenomenon remain unknown but might be related to differences in per-operative specimen handling, tumour spill, surgical trauma and pro-inflammatory response. This finding might imply the need for a personalized follow-up after primary resection of CRC.