bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Emerging technologies for selenium separation and recovery from aqueous systems: A review for sustainable management strategy
Authors: Pal Parimal , Malhotra Meenakshi
Published: September 2022

Selenium (Se) is known both as an essential micronutrient for human health as well as a toxic element when consumed in excess. This work endeavours to critically review the existing selenium literature over the period 1980–2021, following a systematic sub‐classification into the domains of occurrence, speciation, and existing conventional and advanced technologies, while directing further research towards emerging integrated sustainable recovery strategies. The review reveals that the majority of the conventional and advanced separation techniques eventually lead to secondary pollution rather than offering a complete solution, whereas resource recovery studies from water are very scant. Some of the techniques, being miserably slow, cannot be applied in the situations of the occurrence of excess selenium in drinking water, posing a serious threat to human health. Research efforts have so far been directed mainly at the removal of selenium rather than recovery through processes that have the potential of turning selenium abatement technology into a sustainable one with value addition. Emerging integrated technologies involving resource recovery from waste streams or generated sludge such as physicochemical technologies, biochemical reduction, electro‐biological reduction, and membrane‐based hybrid technologies are presently at a very early development stage. Moreover, the application of studies where Se nanoparticles (SeNPs) ormetal selenides are obtained is very limited, which may be attributed to the particle size, purity, morphology, and challenges involved in their separation. This review evaluates the challenges in separation and resource recovery from contaminated streams and points future research in a new direction.
Bayesian fuzzy clustering‐based routing protocol in heterogeneous wireless sensor network using fractional Border Collie optimization
Authors: Sangeetha Shanmugam , Victoire Aruldoss Albert , Shanthakumar Palanisamy
Published: September 2022

The major complex issues of routing protocols in heterogeneous wireless sensor network (WSN) are energy balancing and energy efficiency. Though numerous protocols exist in WSN for routing, increasing the system lifetime and to balance the energy consumption still pose a difficult task in the networking scenario. To solve the energy balancing issues and to prolong the network lifetime, an effective routing protocol is designed using the proposed fractional Border Collie optimization (FBCO) algorithm. The proposed FBCO is derived by incorporating fractional calculus (FC) with Border Collie Optimization (BCO), respectively. To make the routing process more efficient, it is significant to group the nodes in the form of cluster such that the formation of cluster is made using Bayesian fuzzy clustering (BFC). The fitness function is designed by taking into account the multiobjective constrictions, like distance, delay, latency, route link time (RLT), and energy. With these objective factors, the optimal value is computed for each solution in the search space such that the computation of the optimal value enables the routing protocol to enhance energy consumption and network lifespan. The performance achieved by the introduced FBCO‐based routing procedure based on delay is 0.3470 s, latency is 0.3142 s, throughput is 97.58%, and residual energy is 0.1726 J by considering 100 numbers of nodes.
Assessing potassium levels in critically ill patients with heart failure: application of a group‐based trajectory model
Authors: Lin Zehao , Zheng Jiawei , Liu Xiaochun , Hu Xiaojun , Fuxian Ren , Gao Dengfeng
Published: September 2022

Aims

Abnormalities in potassium homeostasis are frequently seen in hospitalized patients. A poor outcome in heart failure (HF) has been linked to both hypokalaemia and hyperkalaemia. The studies on the connection between variations in potassium levels and all‐cause mortality remain scarce. We delineated trajectories of potassium levels and investigated the association of these trajectories with all‐cause mortality of critically ill patients with HF.

Methods and results

A retrospective analysis of blood potassium levels (9 times) in patients with HF after being admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU). Potassium levels were divided into three groups according to the first serum potassium level in ICU and thereafter categorized as follows: hypokalaemia group (n = 336) (<3.5 mmol/L), normal blood potassium‐level group (n = 3322) (3.5–5.0 mmol/L), and hyperkalaemia group (n = 395) (>5.0 mmol/L). According to the group‐based trajectory modelling (GBTM), the hyperkalaemia group and the normal blood potassium‐level group can be divided into three trajectory groups: the low‐level stable group, the medium‐level stable group, and the high‐level decline group. The hypokalaemia group can be divided into two trajectory groups: the low‐level rise group and the high‐level rise group. A total of 4053 HF patients were included (mean age 71.81 ± 13.12 years, 54.90% males, 45.10% females). After adjusting for possible confounding variables, in the hyperkalaemia group, the low‐level stable group had lower 28 day [high‐level decline group vs. low‐level stable group hazard ratio (HR), 95% confidence interval (CI): 2.917, 1.555–5.473; P < 0.05] and 365 day (high‐level decline group vs. low‐level stable group HR, 95% CI: 2.854, 1.820–4.475; P < 0.05) all‐cause mortality. In the normal blood potassium‐level group, the medium‐level stable group had lower 28 day (medium‐level stable group vs. low‐level stable group HR, 95% CI: 0.776, 0.657–0.918; P < 0.05) and 365 day (medium‐level stable group vs. low‐level stable group HR, 95% CI: 0.827, 0.733–0.934; P < 0.05) all‐cause mortality. In the hypokalaemia group, the cumulative survival of the high‐level rise group and the low‐level rise group did not differ significantly.

Conclusions

Critically ill patients with HF have blood potassium trajectories. And the trajectories are associated with all‐cause mortality for hyperkalaemia and normal blood potassium‐level patients. GBTM is a granular method to describe the evolution of blood potassium, which may increase the current knowledge of blood potassium‐level adjustment.
Aetiology of chronic heart failure in patients from a super‐aged society: the KUNIUMI registry chronic cohort
Authors: Fujimoto Wataru , Toh Ryuji , Takegami Misa , Imanishi Junichi , Hamana Tomoyo , Odajima Susumu , Takemoto Makoto , Kuroda Koji , Hatani Yutaka , Yamashita Soichiro , Iwasaki Masamichi , Inoue Takumi , Okamoto Hiroshi , Todoroki Takafumi , Okuda Masanori , Hayashi Takatoshi , Konishi Akihide , Tanaka Hidekazu , Shinohara Masakazu , Nagao Manabu , Murata Shunsuke , Ogata Soshiro , Nishimura Kunihiro , Hirata Ken‐ichi
Published: September 2022

Aims

With the rapidly increasing ageing population, heart failure is an urgent challenge, particularly in developed countries. The study aimed to investigate the main aetiologies of chronic heart failure in a super‐aged society.

Methods and results

The KUNIUMI registry chronic cohort is a community‐based, prospective, observational study of chronic heart failure in Awaji Island, Japan. Inhabitants of this island aged ≥65 years accounted for 36.3% of the population. In the present study, data from patients with symptomatic heart failure were extracted from the registry. A total of 1646 patients were enrolled from March 2019 to March 2021, accounting for ~1.3% of the inhabitants of Awaji Island. We analysed 852 patients with symptomatic heart failure. The mean age was high (78.7 ± 11.1 years), with 357 patients (41.9%) being female. The proportion of women increased significantly with advancing age and constituted more than half of the patients aged 85 years and older (P < 0.01). The prevalence of atrial fibrillation, and in particular long‐standing persistent atrial fibrillation, increased at 70 years of age (P < 0.01). The proportion of patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction increased to ~60% when age was over 75 years. Although ischaemic heart disease accounted for 35.0% of chronic heart failure aetiologies, valvular heart disease was the most common cause of chronic heart failure (49.8%). The major types of valvular heart disease were mitral regurgitation and tricuspid regurgitation (27.2% and 21.7%, respectively), both of which increased significantly with age (P < 0.01). The incidence of aortic valve stenosis increased markedly over the age of 85 years (P < 0.01). Atrial functional mitral regurgitation increased with age and was the major cause of mitral regurgitation in patients aged >75 years. Patients with atrial functional mitral regurgitation had a higher prevalence of atrial fibrillation (especially long‐standing persistent atrial fibrillation) and a larger left atrial volume index when compared with patients with other types of mitral regurgitation (P < 0.001, respectively).

Conclusions

The KUNIUMI registry chronic cohort showed a change in heart failure aetiology to valvular heart disease in a super‐aged society. Effective and comprehensive countermeasures are required to prepare for the rapid rise in heart failure incidence in a super‐aged society.
On the predicted replicability of two decades of experimental research on system justification: A Z‐curve analysis
Authors: Sotola Lukas K. , Credé Marcus
Published: September 2022

We examine the predicted replicability of experimental research on system justification theory (SJT) by conducting a z‐curve analysis. Z‐curve is a meta‐analytic technique similar to p‐curve, but which performs better under conditions of heterogeneity. It estimates the predicted replication rate, average power, false discovery risk, and file drawer ratio (FDR) of a sample of studies. The z‐curve based on 116 papers and 232 unique samples suggests that the experimental SJT literature is likely to show low rates of replicability, as indicated by an overall average statistical power of 16%. Moderator analyses suggest that this may be driven in part by publication pressures, that the replicability of research in this area has improved since 2015, and that studies using system threat manipulations show particularly low estimated replication rates (ERR). Implications for the replicability and validity of the experimental SJT literature are discussed, and recommendations to increase the rigor of research are put forth.
Case report: Joint deformity associated with systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Chen Shu‐Lin , Zheng Hui‐Juan , Zhang Li‐Yu , Xu Qiang , Lin Chang‐Song
Published: September 2022

Objective

Typically, Jaccoud arthropathy (JA) is characterized by joint deformation without bone erosion. However, some recent studies have shown that bone erosion also occurs in JA; however, this remains controversial. To date, there have been no unified diagnostic standards for JA. Herein, we report a case of systemic lupus erythematosus complicated with JA without bone erosion.

Methods

A 27‐year‐old woman was admitted to our department with a 2‐year history of pain, swelling, and progressive deformities of her hands and feet. She was diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus and class V lupus nephritis 5 years prior. Upon examination, her erythrocyte sedimentation rate and C‐reactive protein levels were found to be increased. She was positive for antinuclear antibodies, antidouble stranded DNA antibodies, and antiextractable nuclear antigen antibodies, with a decreased complement C3 and C4. Radiography and magnetic resonance imaging revealed no bone erosion. The patient was diagnosed with JA. She was treated with oral prednisone (10 mg daily), tofacitinib (5 mg twice daily), methotrexate (10 mg weekly), and celecoxib (0.2 g twice daily).

Results

The patient's joint symptoms improved after treatment. No further progress was observed during the 4‐month follow‐up period.

Conclusion

We believe that bone erosion is the key to distinguish rhupus syndrome from JA. However, this needs to be confirmed with further long‐term follow‐up studies. We found that the use tofacitinib, MTX, and celecoxib in combination with prednisone may be an effective regimen for the treatment of JA.
Efficacy of combination of transcervical Foley catheter and sublingual misoprostol versus sublingual misoprostol for labor induction in pre‐eclampsia at 28–34 weeks
Authors: Sharma Jyotsna , Sagili Haritha , Keepanasseril Anish
Published: September 2022

Objective

To compare the efficacy of using a combination of transcervical Foley catheter and sublingual misoprostol with sublingual misoprostol alone for induction of labor (IOL) in women with pre‐eclampsia between 28 and 34 weeks of pregnancy.

Methods

This randomized controlled trial was conducted on women with pre‐eclampsia at 28–34 weeks of pregnancy, with unfavorable cervix, admitted to a tertiary hospital in south India. They were randomized to receive either a combination of transcervical Foley catheter and sublingual misoprostol, or sublingual misoprostol alone. Vaginal birth within 24 h of induction, induction to delivery interval, and neonatal morbidity/mortality were the main outcome measures.

Results

Vaginal birth within 24 h was higher with the combination of Foley catheter and sublingual misoprostol compared with sublingual misoprostol alone (60% versus 41.4%, P = 0.028). Overall vaginal delivery rates were comparable between the groups (90% versus 80%, P = 0.051). There was no difference in number of doses of misoprostol, and induction to delivery interval between groups. After excluding those with lower likelihood of neonatal survival, live birth rates, mean birth weight, and neonatal intensive care unit admission rates were similar in both groups.

Conclusions

Combination of transcervical Foley catheter and sublingual misoprostol was found to be more effective in achieving vaginal birth within 24 h compared with sublingual misoprostol for IOL in pre‐eclampsia between 28 and 34 weeks of pregnancy.

Trial Registration Number

CTRI/2018/09/015766; http://ctri.nic.in/Clinicaltrials/pmaindet2.php?trialid=27984.
A systematic literature review on preventing violent extremism
Authors: Amit Sajid , Kafy Abdulla ‐ Al
Published: September 2022

Introduction

In recent years, violent extremism (VE) attacks have escalated worldwide. More schools and students are being attacked. Examining and addressing VE core causes through preventing VE (PVE) strategies can help avoid future atrocities. Due to the tremendous proliferation of research geared toward PVE, an extensive but disorganized knowledge review has accumulated in recent years. The review aims to discover several common themes and strategies across different disciplines and suggests resilience approaches might be the effective framework for PVE worldwide.

Methods

This study followed the guidelines provided by PRISMA. A systematic literature review on 81 articles was conducted in January 2022, with a screening approach starting from the title, abstract and finally, full articles.

Results

Seventeen studies were identified with a total sample of 2415 vulnerable young adults, age range: 16–29, male: 68.65% and female 31.35% mainly influenced VE pursuits through internet, TV and social media. In addition, the study identified that for PVE, individual actions would include ineffective approaches compared to a group approach starting from family to educational institutions.

Conclusions

The effective PVE will be ensured by developing strategies for resilient individuals and dialoguing from the social‐ecological perspective for taking practical actions in reducing VE activities.
Identification of blood species based on surface‐enhanced Raman scattering spectroscopy and convolutional neural network
Authors: Chen Jiansheng , Wang Peng , Tian Yubing , Zhang Rui , Sun Jiaojiao , Zhang Zhiqiang , Gao Jing
Published: September 2022

The identification of blood species is of great significance in many aspects such as forensic science, wildlife protection, and customs security and quarantine. Conventional Raman spectroscopy combined with chemometrics is an established method for identification of blood species. However, the Raman spectrum of trace amount of blood could hardly be obtained due to the very small cross‐section of Raman scattering. In order to overcome this limitation, surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) was adopted to analyze trace amount of blood. The 785 nm laser was selected as the optimal laser to acquire the SERS spectra, and the blood SERS spectra of 19 species were measured. The convolutional neural network (CNN) was used to distinguish the blood of 19 species including human. The recognition accuracy of the blood species was obtained with 98.79%. Our study provides an effective and reliable method for identification and classification of trace amount of blood.
Highlighting nuances of blue light phototherapy: Mechanisms and safety considerations
Authors: Uzunbajakava Natallia E. , Tobin Desmond J. , Botchkareva Natalia V. , Dierickx Christine , Bjerring Peter , Town Godfrey
Published: September 2022

The efficacy of blue light therapy in dermatology relies on numerous clinical studies. The safety remains a topic of controversy, where potentially deleterious effects were derived from in vitro rather than in vivo experiments. The objectives of this work were (1) to highlight the nuances behind “colors” of blue light, light propagation in tissue and the plurality of modes of action; and (2) to rigorously analyze studies on humans reporting both clinical and histological data from skin biopsies with focus on DNA damage, proliferation, apoptosis, oxidative stress, impact on collagen, elastin, immune cells, and pigmentation. We conclude that blue light therapy is safe for human skin. It induces intriguing skin pigmentation, in part mediated by photoreceptor Opsin‐3, which might have a photoprotective effect against ultraviolet irradiation. Future research needs to unravel photochemical reactions and the most effective and safe parameters of blue light in dermatology.
Plasmapheresis compared with conventional treatment for hypertriglyceridemia‐induced acute pancreatitis: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Yan Li‐Hong , Hu Xin‐Hui , Chen Ruo‐Xin , Pan Ming‐Ming , Han Yu‐Chen , Gao Min , Liu Hong
Published: September 2022

Background

The treatment of acute pancreatitis (AP) induced by hypertriglyceridemia (HTG) remains controversial with regard to plasmapheresis vs conventional treatment. We reviewed relevant articles to explore the efficacy of plasmapheresis in the management of HTG‐induced AP.

Methods

We systematically reviewed studies that compared plasmapheresis with conventional treatment for HTG‐induced AP using three databases: PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library, as well as relevant references. The primary outcomes were 24 h triglyceride reduction rate and in‐hospital mortality.

Results

A total of 791 articles were retrieved. Finally, 15 observational studies (1080 participants) were included, most of which were historical cohort studies. Compared with conventional treatment, plasmapheresis assisted in the reduction of serum triglyceride (TG) levels in the first 24 h after hospital admission (standardized mean difference [SMD]: 0.58; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.17 to 0.99; P = 0.005). However, it resulted in increased hospitalization costs (thousand yuan) (weighted mean difference [WMD]: 24.32; 95% CI: 12.96 to 35.68; P < 0.001). With regard to in‐hospital mortality, although the mortality rate in the plasmapheresis group was higher than that in the conventional treatment group (relative risk [RR]: 1.74; 95% CI: 1.03 to 2.94; P = 0.038), the result was disturbed by confounding factors as per the subgroup and sensitivity analysis, as well as trial sequential analysis (TSA). No significant differences were found in other outcomes, including systematic complications, local complications, the requirement for surgery, and hospitalization duration.

Conclusion

The effect of plasmapheresis in HTG‐induced AP is not superior to that of conventional treatment, even resulting in a greater economic burden to patients and health care system. High quality randomized control trials are required to obtain a more a definitive understanding of this issue.
Branched polyethyleneimine: CHARMM force field and molecular dynamics simulations
Authors: Terteci‐Popescu Andrada‐Elena , Beu Titus Adrian
Published: September 2022

Polyethyleneimine (PEI), one of the non‐viral vectors of great interest for gene delivery, was investigated at all‐atom level, with particular emphasis on its branched form. We report the extension of our previously published CHARMM force field (FF) for linear PEI, with parameters optimized specifically for branched configurations. A new residue type for the branch connector is introduced and the charges and bonded parameters are derived from ab initio calculations based on a model polymer. The new FF is validated by extensive molecular dynamics simulations of solvated branched PEIs of various protonation fractions and branch lengths. The gyration radii, end‐to‐end distances, and diffusion coefficients are compared with results for linear PEIs of similar molecular weights and protonation patterns. Solvated complexes of DNA with (linear/branched) PEI were also investigated to determine favorable attachment conformations. The parametrized atomistic force field is suitable for simulations of PEI with arbitrary branching pattern, protonation, and size, and is expected to provide relevant insights regarding optimal conditions for DNA‐PEI complex formation.
Applications of quinoxaline‐bridged bis(benzimidazolium) salts as ligand sources for the palladium‐catalyzed Suzuki and Heck cross‐coupling reactions in an aqueous medium
Authors: Düşünceli Serpil Demir , Şahan Mehmet Hanifi , Kaloğlu Murat , Üstün Elvan , Özdemir İsmail
Published: September 2022

In the present work, quinoxaline‐bridged bis(benzimidazolium) salts were prepared by the reaction of 2,3‐bis(bromomethyl) quinoxaline and 1‐substituted benzimidazole. The structures of the bis(benzimidazolium) salts were characterized by NMR, FT‐IR, and elemental analysis techniques. Also, the photophysical properties of salts were investigated by UV–Vis absorption and fluorescence emission spectroscopy. Next, these quinoxaline bridged bis(benzimidazolium) salts were used as bidentate benzimidazol‐2‐ylidene ligand precursors in the palladium‐catalyzed Suzuki‐Miyaura and Mizoroki‐Heck cross‐couplings. These salts exhibited moderate‐to‐high activity in the palladium‐catalyzed cross‐coupling reactions.
Comparing the clinical application of strain elastography and shear wave elastography for the evaluation of lateral epicondylitis
Authors: Hong Sujin , Hahn Seok , Yi Jisook , Park Eun Joo , Bang Jin‐Young
Published: September 2022

Purpose

This study aimed to compare the diagnostic performance of gray‐scale ultrasound (GSU), strain elastography (SE), and shear wave elastography (SWE) for lateral epicondylitis (LE).

Methods

From November 2018 to March 2021, 87 common extensor tendons (CETs) of 70 patients were evaluated using elbow ultrasound. Patients were divided into two groups: patients with LE and those without lateral elbow pain. GSU, SE, and SWE findings from the two groups were compared, and the diagnostic performance was compared for significant variables.

Results

Among the 70 patients, 41 with 44 CETs were clinically diagnosed with LE, and 29 with 43 CETs had no lateral elbow pain. Hypoechogenicity, calcification, and hyperemia were significantly different. Strain ratio (SR), stiffness, and shear wave velocity (SWV) were also significantly different. The diagnostic accuracy of stiffness and SWV was better than that of other significant findings. Furthermore, there were no superiorities in SR, stiffness, or SWV.

Conclusion

Both SE and SWE can be valuable diagnostic tools for diagnosing LE. The diagnostic performances of both SE and SWE were similar in the detection of LE.
Metabolomic analysis and ecofriendly enrichment of sunflower meal extract
Authors: do Nascimento Talita Pimenta , Ladeira Karine Campos , Bezerra Fernanda de Sousa , Santos Millena Cristina Barros , de Souza Thaiza Serrano Pinheiro , Cameron L.C. , Ferreira Mariana Simões Larraz , Koblitz Maria Gabriela Bello
Published: September 2022

BACKGROUND

The presence of phenolic compounds in sunflower is well reported in the literature; however, knowledge is scarce when it comes to the composition of other secondary metabolites in this species and their by‐products. This work evaluated, for the first time, the phytochemical composition of sunflower meal produced in Brazil. A combination of mixture design and central composite rotatable design 23 models was then applied to maximize the recovery of bioactive compounds using ecologically friendly solvents and concentrating by applying activated carbon, a sustainable adsorbent. The product of this extraction–concentration was also evaluated by an untargeted metabolomic approach using ultra‐performance liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry.

RESULTS

A diverse and abundant profile of phenolic compounds was obtained from Brazilian sunflower meal: in total, 51 natural products were tentatively identified, 35 of which for the first time in sunflower. The sorption capacity of the activated charcoal, in the optimized process conditions, was effective in the separation and concentration of minority secondary metabolites. The ecofriendly extract proved to be enriched in plumberoside, p‐coumaric acid, and alkaloids.

CONCLUSIONS

Investigation of the phytochemical profile of sunflower meal produced in Brazil pointed to several secondary metabolites reported for the first time in sunflower samples, including phenolic compounds, alkaloids, and terpenes. The use of activated charcoal in an alkaline medium as an adsorbent for the concentration of these phytochemicals, from an aqueous extract, generated a potentially cost‐effective, ecofriendly extract, enriched in minor metabolites, indicating a possible innovative way to selectively obtain these compounds from sunflower meal. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Effect of splenic transfer factor on the development of intestinal mucosal barrier in laying hens
Authors: Ma Junxing , Ma Baochen , Wang Zixu , Chen Yaoxing , Ma Ruiqin , Dong Yulan
Published: September 2022

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of different doses of chicken spleen transfer factor (TF) on the structure of intestinal epithelial cells in different age groups. One‐day‐old White Leghorns laying hens were randomly divided into four groups: three groups were administered TF at different dosages (0.10, 0.25 or 1.00 mL) and a fourth group was set as control (administered saline, 1.00 mL). Using hematoxylin and eosin staining, high‐throughput sequencing, microbiota analysis, quantitative polymerase reaction and western blotting.

RESULTS

We measured the effects of different doses of TF on the following: intestinal mucosal epithelial tissue morphology, intestinal mucosal epithelial barrier‐related gene expression profiles, and intestinal epithelial tight junction gene protein levels. The collected data show that TF can improve the absorption of nutrients by increasing villus height and crypt depth, and regulate intestinal flora disorders. Furthermore, we verified that the expression of the claudin and occludin tight junctions between intestinal epithelial cells was increased with TF. this research is very important for focusing on the structure and gene expression of intestinal tissues.

CONCLUSION

The results provide a scientific rationale for feeding and nutrition programs for green and healthy farming, as well as technical support to improve the production efficiency of the livestock and poultry breeding industry. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
GO‐Al2O3 nanohybrids to enhance the anticorrosion performance of chemically bonded ceramic coatings
Authors: Guo Yongxin , Wang Lei , Sun Xue
Published: September 2022

In this study, nano‐alumina/graphene oxide (GO‐Al2O3) nanohybrids were synthesized and incorporated into a ceramic matrix to enhance the anticorrosion performance of chemically bonded ceramic coatings. The interaction between GO and nano‐Al2O3 was investigated using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy. Results showed that nano‐Al2O3 was successfully decorated on the surface of GO through chemical bonds, which improved the bonding strength between GO and the ceramic matrix through the reaction of the aluminum phosphate binder with nano‐Al2O3. The unique structures of the GO‐Al2O3 nanohybrids endowed the ceramic coatings with superior anticorrosion properties as compared to the untreated substrate and pure ceramic coatings. The best corrosion resistance of coatings was achieved when the content of the GO‐Al2O3 nanohybrids was 0.6 wt%, which led to the highest protection efficiency (93.4%) and the smallest corrosion current (icorr). The improvement in the corrosion resistance of the ceramic coatings was attributed to the excellent compatibility and dispersibility of the GO‐Al2O3 nanohybrids in the ceramic matrix. In addition, the greater bonding strength between the GO‐Al2O3 nanohybrids and ceramic matrix could enable more fracture energy to be consumed. This in turn could block or change the diffusion pathway of cracks, resulting in higher corrosion resistance.
Activities of Daily Living Are Improved by Inpatient Multimodal Complex Treatment for PD—a Real‐World Cohort Study
Authors: Ziegler Kerstin , Messner Michael , Paulig Mario , Starrost Klaus , Reuschenbach Bernd , Fietzek Urban M. , Ceballos‐Baumann Andres O.
Published: September 2022

Background

The multimodal complex treatment for Parkinson's disease (MCT) provides inpatient care by a multi‐disciplinary team for people with Parkinson's disease (PwP) in Germany.

Objectives

We conducted a 5‐year real‐world mono‐center cohort study to describe the effectiveness of MCT in the full cohort and various subgroups and outcome predictors.

Methods

We collected an anonymized dataset between Jan 2015 and Dec 2019, involving N = 1773. The self‐reported MDS‐UPDRS part II was used as primary outcome, and clinical routine data for explanatory variables. PwP were categorized as responders or non‐responders according to a response of at least 3 points 4 weeks after discharge.

Results

N = 591 complete data records were available for statistical analyses. The full group improved by −2.4 points on the MDS‐UPDRS II (P = <0.0001). 47.7% (n = 282) and 52.3% (n = 309) were coded as responders and non‐responders, respectively. A clinically meaningful response was positively associated to age (χ2 = 11.07, P = 0.018), as well as baseline‐severity of the MDS‐UPDRS II (χ2 = 6.05, P = 0.048) and negatively associated to the presence of psychiatric disorder (χ2 = 3.9, P = 0.048) and cognitive dysfunction (χ2 = 7.29, P = 0.007). Logistic regression showed that baseline severity of the MDS‐UPDRS II predicted therapy success. PwP with moderate baseline‐severity had an about 2fold chance (OR 2.08; 95% CI 1.20–3.61; P = 0.009) and with severe an about 6fold chance (OR 5.92; 95% CI 2.76–12.68; P < 0.0001) to benefit clinically meaningful.

Discussion

In a naturalistic setting of a specialized Parkinson's center, MCT improved ADL disability of PwP at least 4 weeks after discharge. Moderately and severely impaired patients were more likely to achieve clinically meaningful responses.
Roses given, fragrance in hand: Charity law and corporate philanthropy—Evidence from a quasi‐natural experiment in China
Authors: Lu Shiyu , Cheng Bo
Published: September 2022

This study aims to investigate the impact of the 2016 Charity Law of the People's Republic of China on corporate philanthropy and its mechanism. Based on the difference‐in‐difference framework, empirical results show that the charity law has significantly increased the charitable donation level of firms with direct product–consumer contact rather than that in other firms. The additional analysis indicates that corporate self‐interest motives, but not altruistic motives, are ruled out as the mechanisms through which corporate philanthropy is delivered. Furthermore, a closer examination reveals that the charitable donation has not remarkably enhanced firms' operating performance, while the capital market gives these firms a higher valuation.
Interval Laplace transform and its application in production inventory
Authors: Das Subhajit , Rahman Md Sadikur , Shaikh Ali Akbar , Bhunia Asoke Kumar , Konstantaras Ioannis
Published: September 2022

This work demonstrates the Laplace and inverse transforms of interval valued functions with exaggerating its necessary properties under interval flexibility. After proposing the formal definition interval Laplace transform (i.e., Laplace transform of interval valued functions), some of its important properties are derived. Thereafter, the sufficient condition for the existence of interval Laplace transforms is established. Then, some important results regarding switching points of interval Laplace transform are discussed and illustrated with some numerical examples. Finally, the definition of inverse transform of interval valued functions is proposed, and as an application, a production inventory model in interval uncertainty is studied using all of the proposed theoretical results.
Disease activity in chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy: A comparative study of clinical and skin biopsy markers
Authors: Acarli Ayşe Nur Özdağ , Ünverengil Gökçen , Şirin Nermin Görkem , Çakar Arman , Durmuş Hacer , Parman Yeşim
Published: September 2022

Introduction/Aims

Epidermal nerve fiber involvement in chronic inflammatory demyelinating neuropathy (CIDP) has been reported in a limited number of patients. We quantified small‐fiber involvement in a mixed cohort of patients with typical CIDP and CIDP variants to evaluate relationships with clinical outcome measures at different disease stages.

Methods

Intraepidermal nerve fiber densities (IENFDs) were evaluated by skin punch biopsies of 23 patients with CIDP and 13 healthy controls at the forearm, thigh, and distal leg. Skin sections were optimally interpreted in all three regions in 16 CIDP patients and 10 age‐ and sex‐matched healthy controls. Statistical analysis was performed in these subjects.

Results

The IENFDs in forearm, thigh, and distal leg were similar among seven typical CIDP and nine CIDP variants. IENFDs in those regions were significantly reduced in CIDP compared with healthy controls, with a moderate negative correlation with scores on the International Neuropathy Cause and Treatment (INCAT) Upper Limb Functional Disability Scale. The reduction in IENFD compared with controls was more remarkable in the distal leg. In clinically unstable CIDP patients, the IENFDs of distal leg and forearm were significantly reduced compared with stable CIDP patients and controls. Stable CIDP patients had significantly reduced IENFDs in distal leg and forearm compared with controls.

Discussion

In this exploratory study, we confirm that small fibers are also affected in CIDP. Larger studies are needed to explore longitudinal changes of IENFD in CIDP and its relation to disease stage.
Evidence of nerve hypertrophy in patients with inclusion body myositis on lower limb MRI
Authors: Elmansy Mostafa , Morrow Jasper M. , Shah Sachit , Fischmann Arne , Wastling Stephen , Reilly Mary M. , Hanna Michael G. , Helmy Eman Mohamed , El‐Essawy Saleh Saleh , Thornton John S. , Yousry Tarek A.
Published: September 2022

Introduction/aims

Inclusion body myositis (IBM) is a myopathic condition but in some patients has been associated with an axonal length‐dependent polyneuropathy. In this study, we quantified the cross‐sectional area of the sciatic and tibial nerves in patients with IBM comparing with Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease type 1A (CMT1A) and healthy controls using magnetic resonance neurography (MRN).

Methods

MRN of the sciatic and tibial nerves was performed at 3T using MPRAGE and Dixon acquisitions. Nerve cross‐sectional area (CSA) was measured at the mid‐thigh and upper third calf regions by an observer blinded to the diagnosis. Correlations were performed between these measurements and clinical data.

Results

A total of 20 patients with IBM, 20 CMT1A and 29 healthy controls (age‐ and sex‐matched) were studied. Sciatic nerve CSA was significantly enlarged in patients with IBM and CMT1A compared to controls (sciatic nerve mean CSA 62.3 ± 22.9 mm2 (IBM) vs. 35.5 ± 9.9 mm2 (controls), p < 0.001; and 96.9 ± 35.5 mm2 (CMT1A) vs. 35.5 ± 9.9 mm2 (controls); p < 0.001). Tibial nerve CSA was also enlarged in IBM and CMT1 patients compared to controls.

Discussion

MRN reveals significant hypertrophy of the sciatic and tibial nerves in patients with IBM and CMT1A compared to controls. Further studies are needed to correlate with neurophysiological measures and assess whether this finding is useful diagnostically.
ATP line splitting in association with reduced intracellular magnesium and pH: a brain 31P MR spectroscopic imaging (MRSI) study of pediatric patients with myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody‐associated disorders (MOGADs)
Authors: Ren Jimin , Yu Fang , Greenberg Benjamin M.
Published: September 2022

Over the past four decades, ATP, the obligatory energy molecule for keeping all cells alive and functioning, has been thought to contribute only one set of signals in brain 31P MR spectra. Here we report for the first time the observation of two separate β‐ATP peaks in brain spectra acquired from patients with myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody‐associated disorders (MOGADs) using 3D MRSI at 7 T. In voxel spectra with β‐ATP line splitting, these two peaks are separated by 0.46 ± 0.18 ppm (n = 6). Spectral lineshape analysis indicates that the upper field β‐ATP peak is smaller in relative intensity (24 ± 11% versus 76 ± 11%), and narrower in linewidth (56.8 ± 10.3 versus 41.2 ± 10.3 Hz) than the downfield one. Data analysis also reveals a similar line splitting for the intracellular inorganic phosphate (Pi) signal, which is characterized by two components with a smaller separation (0.16 ± 0.09 ppm) and an intensity ratio (26 ± 7%:74 ± 7%) comparable to that of β‐ATP. While the major components of Pi and β‐ATP correspond to a neutral intracellular pH (6.99 ± 0.01) and a free Mg2+ level (0.18 ± 0.02 mM, by Iotti's conversion formula) as found in healthy subjects, their minor counterparts relate to a slightly acidic pH (6.86 ± 0.07) and a 50% lower [Mg2+] (0.09 ± 0.02 mM), respectively. Data correlation between β‐ATP and Pi signals appears to suggest an association between an increased [H+] and a reduced [Mg2+] in MOGAD patients.
On the evaluation of general sparse hybrid linear solvers
Authors: Farea Afrah , Çelebi M. Serdar
Published: September 2022

General sparse hybrid solvers are commonly used kernels for solving wide range of scientific and engineering problems. This work addresses the current problems of efficiently solving general sparse linear equations with direct/iterative hybrid solvers on many core distributed clusters. We briefly discuss the solution stages of Maphys, HIPS, and PDSLin hybrid solvers for large sparse linear systems with their major algorithmic differences. In this category of solvers, different methods with sophisticated preconditioning algorithms are suggested to solve the trade off between memory and convergence. Such solutions require a certain hierarchical level of parallelism more suitable for modern supercomputers that allow to scale for thousand numbers of processors using Schur complement framework. We study the effect of reordering and analyze the performance, scalability as well as memory for each solve phase of PDSLin, Maphys, and HIPS hybrid solvers using large set of challenging matrices arising from different actual applications and compare the results with SuperLU_DIST direct solver. We specifically focus on the level of parallel mechanisms used by the hybrid solvers and the effect on scalability. Tuning and Analysis Utilities (TAU) is employed to assess the efficient usage of heap memory profile and measuring communication volume. The tests are run on high performance large memory clusters using up to 512 processors.
Communication in home care—A feasibility study of an educational intervention in self‐efficacy and job satisfaction
Authors: Gustafsson Tanja , Sundler Annelie J. , Hedén Lena , Lindberg Elisabeth , Maurin Söderholm Hanna
Published: September 2022

Aim

To explore the feasibility of evaluating a novel educational intervention on person‐centered communication for nursing assistants (NAs) in home care.

Design

A feasibility study with pre‐ and post‐assessments.

Methods

Feasibility was assessed pre‐ and post‐intervention, including evaluation of data collection procedures, completion rates and missing data in two questionnaires: Self‐efficacy Questionnaire measuring communication skills and Measure of Job Satisfaction, analysed descriptively and statistically.

Results

The questionnaires were feasible and acceptable for the NAs to complete and understand. The pre‐ and post‐assessments showed 83% and 61% completion rates, respectively, and a low proportion of missing data. Barriers for not participating in data collection were stress caused by staff shortages and high workload. Preliminary analysis of the questionnaires showed no significant difference pre‐ and post‐intervention, even though an overall tendency of increased communication self‐efficacy was observed. The NAs' self‐efficacy ratings also revealed a ceiling effect.
Notes on early childhood diets in early modern Oulu, Finland, based on the stable isotope case studies of archeological dentin
Authors: Väre Tiina , Lipkin Sanna , Núñez Milton
Published: September 2022

In mid‐18th‐century Sweden, the newly enhanced census records revealed higher‐than‐expected infant mortality rates in certain regions of the kingdom. This convinced contemporary elite men of common women deliberately refusing to breastfeed out of vanity and lack of care. One of the worst regions in terms of infant mortality was the province of Ostrobothnia, located in the area of what is now Finland. To explore the allegations, we measured the carbon (δ13C) and nitrogen (δ15N) stable isotope ratios in the collagen of incremental crown dentin segments of the permanent first molars (M1) of six individuals excavated from the early modern churchyard of the town of Oulu, Ostrobothnia. The results do not directly support the worries over the lack of breastfeeding but imply a variety of related practices in Oulu at the time.
Collective sensemaking within institutions: Control of the COVID‐19 epidemic in Vietnam
Authors: Pham Chuong H. , Nguyen Thang V. , Bach Thang N. , Le Canh Q. , Nguyen Hung V.
Published: September 2022

How people make initial and collective sense under crises remains unanswered. This paper addresses this question using the control of COVID‐19 in Vietnam as a case study. Our results suggest that sensemaking under crises is influenced by an institutional propensity for prevention that has developed gradually over time. Local governments play a vital role in fostering collective sensemaking which enables concerted actions in epidemic control. However, biases are inherent in sensemaking, including a delay in access to vaccine and a violation of privacy. For policy makers, this study suggests that developing specific prevention policies and programs, building large‐scale coordination capacity, and promoting local initiatives are necessary for coping with epidemics. For theory development, the study explores how institutions condition sensemaking and specifies several mechanisms in which local authorities could facilitate collective sensemaking in crises.
Polylactic acid/silk fibroin composite hollow fibers as excellent controlled drug release systems
Authors: Gang Hanlin , Wang Han , Ma Sitian , Wang Chaorong , Bian Lixing , Wang Zonglei , Zhou Yingshan , Gu Shaojin , Liu Xin , Xu Weilin , Zhuang Yan , Yang Hongjun
Published: September 2022

Polylactic acid (PLA) and silk fibroin (SF) have been widely used in biomedical applications because of their excellent biocompatibility and degradability. In this study, PLA and SF were used as raw materials to prepare hollow fibers with a skin‐core structure by wet spinning technology. Scanning electron microscopy observations revealed that the structure of hollow fibers became increasingly uniform with increasing silk fibroin mass fraction. Tensile test results showed that with the increase of silk fibroin content, the elastic modulus of hollow fibers decreased and their tensile properties improved. The results of hollow fibers degradation experiments revealed that increasing the content of silk fibroin can effectively shorten the degradation time of hollow fibers. Ultraviolet spectrophotometry was used to measure the absorbance of tetracycline hydrochloride in phosphate buffer saline and calculate its release rate in hollow fibers with different silk fibroin contents, the result is HFs‐9 > HFs‐7 > HFs‐0 > HFs‐5 > HFs‐3. The PLA/SF controlled drug release system has precise controlled release of the drug, realizes the separation of the drug from the controlled release system, and solves the problem of sudden drug release. In addition, the controlled release system is non‐toxic, degradable, and has excellent mechanical properties.
Satisfaction and access to care for adults and adolescents with sickle cell disease: ASCQ‐Me quality of care and the SHIP‐HU study
Authors: Sisler India , McClish Donna K. , Valrie Cecelia , Villella Anthony , Smith Wally R.
Published: September 2022

A lack of adult sickle cell providers has long been blamed for poor satisfaction and access to specialty care for adults with sickle cell disease (SCD). We were interested in comparing how adolescent and adult patients already in established SCD centers perceived access and quality of care. Hydroxyurea‐eligible patients aged 15 years and older were enrolled in the Start Healing in Patients with Hydroxyurea trial, which required them to be affiliated with a SCD specialist. Patients were seen in one of three adult‐oriented specialty clinic sites or one of three pediatric‐oriented sites. At baseline, patients completed the Adult Sickle Cell Quality of Life Measurement Information System measure as part of a survey battery. Patients treated at adult clinic sites reported being less able to get timely ambulatory appointments (p = .004). They reported emergency department (ED) wait times of >1 h far more often (47.7 vs. 19.3%, p = .0048). They reported less overall satisfaction with care (7.47 vs. 8.77, p < .0001), and less satisfaction with care in the ED (2.88 vs. 3.4, p = .0068. Ambulatory satisfaction was no different between pediatric site versus adult site patients. Poorer systems of care appeared to underlie reported differences, rather than differences in biopsychosocial determinants. Even among specialty‐care‐affiliated SCD patients, those seen in adult clinics reported worse access to care and lower satisfaction with care than patients seen in pediatric clinics. In addition to increasing the number of adult SCD providers and better preparing pediatric SCD patients to transfer to adult programs, SCD clinical caregivers must also improve aspects of adult care quality to meet reasonable patient expectations of timeliness and interpersonal aspects of care quality.