bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Targeted Deposition in a Lithiophilic Silver‐Modified 3D Cu Host for Lithium‐Metal Anodes
Authors: Chen Weiyi , Li Shaopeng , Wang Chenhui , Dou Hui , Zhang Xiaogang
Published: April 2022

Lithium‐metal batteries are regarded as the “Holy Grail” of next‐generation batteries. However, lithium dendrite and anode volume expansion in cycles seriously hinders lithium‐metal battery applications. Herein, we propose a precise and efficient strategy for stabilizing lithium‐metal batteries via a lithiophilic Ag‐modified Cu current host (Li@CuM/Ag). By applying the magnetron sputtering method, the lithiophilic silver layer can be anchored homogeneously on the Cu mesh. The lithiophilic silver layer effectively guides uniform Li deposition in the 3D host and realizes spatial control over Li nucleation. In addition, a dendrite‐free lithium anode is successfully realized, which has been proven by in situ optical dynamic tests and Li deposition simulations. The symmetrical cell can maintain a low overpotential (230 mV) and long cycle life (90 h) at a large current of 10 mA cm−2 for a plating amount of 3 mAh cm−2. Furthermore, Li@CuM/Ag||LiCoO2 cells exhibited a high‐capacity retention rate (86.39%) after 150 cycles at 2 C. Lithiophilic hosts based on magnetron sputtering provide a feasible strategy for applications of lithium‐metal batteries.
N‐Alkylated Analogues of Indolylthio Glycosides as Glycosyl Donors with Enhanced Activation Profile
Authors: Shrestha Ganesh , Panza Matteo , Singh Yashapal , Stine Keith J. , Demchenko Alexei V.
Published: April 2022

While studying indolylthio glycosides, previously we determined their activation profile that required large excess of activators. This drawback was partially addressed in the present study of N‐alkylated SInR derivatives. The activation process was studied by NMR and the increased understanding of the mechanism led to a discovery of different activation pathways taking place with SIn versus SInR derivatives. Also investigated was orthogonality of the SInR leaving groups versus thioglycosides and selective activation of thioimidates over SInR glycosides.
Assessment of microbial activity by CO2 production during heating oil storage
Authors: Surger Maximilian J. , Blank Lars M.
Published: April 2022

Microbial activity is the driving force of the carbon cycle, including the digestion of biomass in the soil, oceans, and oil deposits. This natural diversity of microbial carbon sources poses challenges for humans. Contamination monitoring can be difficult in oil tanks and similar settings. To assess microbial activity in such industrial settings, off‐gas analysis can be employed by considering growth and non‐growth‐associated metabolic activity. In this work, we describe the monitoring of CO2 as a method for measuring microbial activity. We revealed that the CO2 signal corresponds to classical growth curves, exemplified by Pseudomonas fluorescens, Yarrowia lipolytica, and Penicillium chrysogenum. Deviations of the CO2 signal from the growth curves occurred when the yield of biomass on the substrate changed (i.e., the non‐growth‐associated metabolic activities). We monitored CO2 to track the onset of microbial contamination in an oil tank. This experimental setup was applied to determine the susceptibility of heating oil and biodiesel to microbial contamination long before the formation of problematic biofilms. In summary, the measurement of CO2 production by bacteria, yeasts, and molds allowed the permanent monitoring of microbial activity under oil storage conditions without invasive sampling.
Trade‐offs between utility‐scale solar development and ungulates on western rangelands
Authors: Sawyer Hall , Korfanta Nicole M , Kauffman Matthew J , Robb Benjamin S , Telander Andrew C , Mattson Todd
Published: April 2022

Utility‐scale solar energy (USSE) has become an efficient and cost‐effective form of renewable energy, with an expanding footprint into rangelands that provide important habitat for many wild ungulate populations. Using global positioning system data collected before and after construction, we documented the potential impacts of USSE on pronghorn (Antilocapra americana), including direct habitat loss, indirect habitat loss, and barrier effects to both resident and migratory population segments. Our case study highlights the challenges that USSE poses to ungulate conservation, including (1) impermeable security fencing that blocks access to and reduces connectivity between formerly available habitats, and (2) the lack of guidelines for minimizing USSE impacts on ungulates. Improved siting and ungulate‐specific best management practices would help to minimize habitat loss and retain landscape connectivity. Ungulate biodiversity and ecosystem services (for example, services provided by long‐distance migratory species) in arid rangelands are important considerations when balancing the global benefits of renewable energy with local wildlife impacts.
Application of mixture design methodology for development of high antioxidant fruity functional beverage
Authors: Sahraee Samar , Ghanbarzadeh Babak , Falcone Pasquale M.
Published: April 2022

Three red color fruit juice (pomegranate (PJ), barberry (BJ), and grape juice (GJ)) and three plant extracts (cardamom essential oil (CE), ginger extract (GE), and hibiscus solution (HS)) were used for the development of different functional beverages. Organoleptic analysis was done to detect the most acceptable fruit juice blend. The physicochemical properties of the samples including total phenols, 1,1‐diphenyl‐2‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) inhibition percent, anthocyanin, flavonoid, and vitamin C content of optimum fruit juice blend (60% PJ/20% BJ/20% GJ) were 121.57 µg gallic acid equivalent (GAE)/ml, 80.28%, 4.03 mg/L, 64.87 mg/100 ml, and 51.10 mg/100 ml, respectively. To determine the optimum level of extracts and essential oil (GE, CE, and HS) in fruit juice blends, the mixture design method was used and 14 runs (formulations) were obtained. In all formulations, samples containing HS had the highest content of antioxidant and active components and the statistical analysis indicated that the sample containing 0.5 CE/0.5 GE/1 HS (ml/100 ml) had the optimum content of antioxidant components. Thus, the results of this study introduce a functional drink possessing high polyphenols, antioxidants, anthocyanin, and vitamin C content.
Data‐driven treatment pathways mining for early breast cancer using cSPADE algorithm and system clustering
Authors: Yang Qing , Luo Ting , Zhang Wei , Zhong Xiaorong , He Ping , Zheng Hong
Published: April 2022

Objectives

Due to the multidimensional, multilayered, and chronological order of the cancer data, it was challenging for us to extract treatment paths. To determine whether the cSPADE algorithm and system clustering proposed in this study can effectively identify the treatment pathways for early breast cancer.

Methods

We applied data mining technology to the electronic medical records of 6891 early breast cancer patients to mine treatment pathways. We provided a method of extracting data from EMR and performed three‐stage mining: determining the treatment stage through the cSPADE algorithm → system clustering for treatment plan extraction → cSPADE mining sequence pattern for treatment. The Kolmogorov‐Smirnov test and correlation analysis were used to cross‐validate the sequence rules of early breast cancer treatment pathways.

Results

We unearthed 55 sequence rules for early breast cancer treatment, 3 preoperative neoadjuvant chemotherapy regimens, three postoperative chemotherapy regimens, and 2 chemotherapy regimens for patients without surgery. Through 5‐fold cross‐validation, Pearson and Spearman correlation tests were performed. At the significance level of p < 0.05, all correlation coefficients of support, confidence and lift were greater than 0.89. Using the Kolmogorov‐Smirnov test, we found no significant differences between the sequence distributions.

Conclusions

We have proved that cSPADE algorithm combined system clustering is an effective technique for identifying temporal relationships between treatment modalities, enabling hierarchical and vertical mining of breast cancer treatment models. In addition, we confirmed the robustness of the results by cross‐validation of these treatment pathway ordering rules. Through this method, the treatment path of early breast cancer patients can be revealed, and the real‐world breast cancer treatment behaviour model can be evaluated, which can provide reference for the redesign and optimization of treatment path.
Three‐dimensional non‐Newtonian couple stress fluid flow over a permeable stretching surface with nonlinear thermal radiation and heat source effects
Authors: Tarakaramu Nainaru , Satya Narayana Panyam Venkata , Sivajothi Ramalingam , Bhagya Lakshmi Kuresi , Harish Babu Dondu , Venkateswarlu Bhumavarapu
Published: April 2022

This study is a study of three‐dimensional couple stress Casson fluid flow with nonlinear thermal radiation and heat source effects. The convective heat and mass transfer analysis is applied to a porous stretching sheet. In fluid flow direction, a uniform magnetic field can be applied. Using the similarity transformations, nondimensional expressions are achieved. The obtained equations are found numerically via the shooting technique as well as Runge‐Kutta‐Fehlberg method in MATLAB software. The contribution of different physical parameters is explored and discussed. Such parameters are porous parameter, couple stress parameter, heat source parameter, nonlinear thermal radiation, temperature parameter, and Lewis number. We found, the decreasing rate of heat transfer in the case of couple stress fluid motion when comparing Casson fluid flow with various values of and .
Common Discourse: Using Literacy to Advocate for Environmental Issues
Authors: Crowell Caryl , Sulser Tiffany , Teeple Kerry
Published: April 2022

In this forum, practitioners reflect on their experiences as they respond to the following question: How can we use literacy to advocate for environmental issues? Three educators across elementary, middle school, and college settings describe using multiple literacies to conduct inquiries and create a deeper awareness of sustainability and shared responsibility toward a more sustainable future.
Aggregate credit supply and debt structure
Authors: Donato James
Published: April 2022

How do fluctuations in aggregate credit supply impact debt structure? In order to capture credit supply, I use six proxies to gauge how debt structure changes under different lending conditions. My results show that periods of expansionary credit are associated with debt concentration, a decrease in the number of bank loan lenders, an increase in the probability of repeat lenders, and an increase in the probability of repeat lead arrangers for firms. However, I argue that this phenomenon is dependent on the riskiness of the firm. Better quality firms choose to concentrate debt structure when supply is abundant whereas low‐quality firms may have little or no choice. I hypothesize that firms concentrate debt structure as a way to enhance negotiating leverage over creditors and increase the value of their strategic default option.
Exosomal circular RNA hsa_circ_0006220, and hsa_circ_0001666 as biomarkers in the diagnosis of pancreatic cancer
Authors: Hong Lu , Xu Liu , Jin Lufei , Xu Kaiwei , Tang Weiwei , Zhu Yuchao , Qiu Xuedan , Wang Jianhua
Published: April 2022

Background

Pancreatic cancer is a highly malignant tumor of the digestive system.

Objective

Exosomal circular RNA can be used as a biomarker for the early diagnosis of pancreatic cancer.

Methods

The expression of various differentially expressed circRNAs in pancreatic cancer tissues was analyzed by gene chip, exosome expression was verified by electron microscopy and Western blotting, and the expression of exosomal circRNA in pancreatic cancer cells, tissues, and plasma were determined by quantitative reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR).

Results

Compared with healthy controls, hsa_circ_0006220 and hsa_circ_0001666 were highly expressed in exosomes in the plasma of pancreatic cancer patients. The AUC values were 0.7817 for hsa_circ_0006220, 0.8062 for hsa_circ_0001666, and 0.884 for the combined diagnosis. In addition, clinicopathological features revealed that the expression of hsa_circ_0006220 in plasma exosomes from pancreatic cancer patients was associated with CA19‐9 levels (p = 0.0001) and lymph node metastasis (p = 0.0005). The expression of hsa_circ_0001666 was correlated with both tumor size (p = 0.0157) and CA19‐9 level (p = 0.0001).

Conclusions

The high expression of exosomal hsa_circ_0001666 and hsa_circ_0006220 suggests that these can be used as new biomarkers for the diagnosis and treatment of pancreatic cancer.
Handgrip strength and all‐cause dementia incidence and mortality: findings from the UK Biobank prospective cohort study
Authors: Esteban‐Cornejo Irene , Ho Frederick K. , Petermann‐Rocha Fanny , Lyall Donald M. , Martinez‐Gomez David , Cabanas‐Sánchez Verónica , Ortega Francisco B. , Hillman Charles H. , Gill Jason M.R. , Quinn Terence J. , Sattar Naveed , Pell Jill P. , Gray Stuart R. , Celis‐Morales Carlos
Published: April 2022

Background

This study aimed to investigate the associations of grip strength with incidence and mortality from dementia and whether these associations differ by sociodemographic and lifestyle factors.

Methods

A total of 466 788 participants of the UK Biobank (median age 56.5 years, 54.5% women). The outcome was all‐cause dementia incidence and mortality and the exposure was grip strength. Grip strength was assessed using a Jamar J00105 hydraulic hand dynamometer.

Results

Excluding the first 2 years of follow‐up (landmark analysis), mean follow‐up was 9.1 years (inter‐quartile range: 8.3; 9.7) for incidence and 9.3 (inter‐quartile range: 8.7; 10.0) for mortality. During this time, 4087 participants developed dementia, and 1309 died from it. Lower grip strength was associated with a higher risk of dementia incidence and mortality independent of major confounding factors (P < 0.001). Individuals in the lowest quintile of grip strength had 72% [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.55; 1.92] higher incident dementia risk and 87% [95% CI: 1.55; 2.26] higher risk of dementia mortality compared with those in the highest quintile. Our PAF analyses indicate that 30.1% of dementia cases and 32.3% of dementia deaths are attributable to having low grip strength. The association between grip strength and dementia outcomes did not differ by lifestyle or sociodemographic factors.

Conclusions

Lower grip strength was associated with a higher risk of all‐cause dementia incidence and mortality, independently of important confounding factors.
Empathy experiences of Japanese certified genetic counselors: A qualitative investigation and proposed framework
Authors: Tomozawa Chikako , Sasaki Motoko , Kanbara Yoko , Dong Jingyi , Murakami Haruka , Miyake Hidehiko
Published: April 2022

Empathy is an important element of genetic counseling. Most genetic counselors acknowledge the significance of empathically engaging clients. However, few empirical studies have focused on the empathy experience of genetic counselors, especially in non‐Western countries. This study aimed to investigate Japanese genetic counselors’ perspectives on the concept of empathy in clinical practice. The study conducted semi‐structured interviews with Japanese certified genetic counselors who had approximately 10 years of clinical experience. Fourteen participants were interviewed about their thoughts on empathy and their experiences wherein they had deeply understood clients or felt closer to them. The interview data were analyzed using grounded theory. As a result, 17 categories were extracted, of which 13 were integrated into three themes of empathy:the empathic cycle in the relationships between genetic counselors and clients (cycling), the process of forming a deeper understanding of a client's perspectives (feeling),andthe process of developing skills to understand clients with empathy (developing). The remaining four categories were grouped into the theme of “challenges of empathy.” The categories included in the first three themes were similar to previous findings in Western countries, whereas some categories of challenges of empathy were unique to this study, which was conducted in a non‐Western country. This might be attributed to the influence of Japanese culture, in which people emphasize self‐regulation and an interdependent‐self model. To our knowledge, this study is the first to report on Japanese certified genetic counselors’ experiences of empathy. This study concludes with some suggestions for future research, including focusing on ways to overcome challenges of empathy in countries or healthcare systems.
Conversion surgery for hepatocellular carcinoma after tyrosine kinase inhibitor treatment
Authors: Kaneko Shun , Tsuchiya Kaoru , Yasui Yutaka , Tanaka Yuki , Inada Kento , Ishido Shun , Kirino Sakura , Yamashita Koji , Hayakawa Yuka , Nobusawa Tsubasa , Matsumoto Hiroaki , Kakegawa Tatsuya , Higuchi Mayu , Takaura Kenta , Tanaka Shohei , Maeyashiki Chiaki , Tamaki Nobuharu , Takahashi Yuka , Nakanishi Hiroyuki , Irie Takumi , Ariizumi Shun‐Ichi , Kurosaki Masayuki , Izumi Namiki
Published: April 2022

Background and Aim

Conversion surgery (CS), which aims to cure after systematic therapy, is only scarcely reported in the field of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, advancements in systemic therapy for HCC are expected to increase the candidates eligible for CS because of the higher response rate. The aim of this study was to clarify the characteristics of patients who underwent CS after tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) therapy.

Methods

In all, 364 patients who were treated with first‐line sorafenib (SOR; n = 292) and lenvatinib (LEN; n = 72) from July 2009 to October 2020 were retrospectively enrolled. The endpoint of this analysis was overall survival (OS), and factors associated with CS are revealed.

Results

Six patients underwent CS after TKI therapy, and of these four (1.4%) and two (2.7%) patients received SOR and LEN, respectively. At baseline, patients who underwent CS were significantly younger (median 52 [range, 46–83] years of age, P = 0.019), and their etiology included viral hepatitis, especially hepatitis B virus (HBV) (P = 0.049). Improvements or maintenance of preoperative modified albumin–bilirubin grade from baseline were observed in five (83.3%) patients, and partial radiologic response was observed in four (66.7%) patients. The median OS and 3‐year survival rate of patients treated with CS were “not reached” and 80.0%, respectively.

Conclusion

The patients who underwent CS after TKI therapy for HCC experienced long survival, were relatively young, and exhibited radiologic response to TKIs, and their liver function was either maintained or improved. Therefore, CS may lead to a better prognosis in patients with advanced HCC.
The effect of high humidity hot air impingement blanching on the changes in cell wall polysaccharides and phytochemicals of okra pods
Authors: Zielinska Sara , Staniszewska Izabela , Cybulska Justyna , Zdunek Artur , Szymanska‐Chargot Monika , Zielinska Danuta , Liu Zi‐Liang , Xiao Hong‐Wei , Pan Zhongli , Zielinska Magdalena
Published: April 2022

BACKGROUND

Okra pods contain heat‐sensitive substances, such as phenolic compounds and other phytochemicals that can be degraded when okra pods are subjected to heat treatment. The understanding of the impact of high humidity hot air impingement blanching (HHAIB) on the changes in physicochemical properties of polysaccharides and phytochemicals of okra pods is of great importance because over‐blanching may result in cell membrane disruption and changes in biologically active compounds under prolonged exposure to the thermal treatment. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate the effect of HHAIB on the changes in physicochemical properties of pectins and phytochemicals extracted from okra pods.

RESULTS

Both the HHAIB time and method of extraction influenced their physicochemical characteristics and biological activity. Pectin fractions subjected to HHAIB were composed of polygalacturonic acid, rhamnogalacturonan, glucomannan, galactan, mannose, arabinose, rhamnose, calcium pectate and arabinogalactan. The contents of total phenolics, total flavonoids and antioxidant activity of extracts mostly increased during HHAIB (i.e. up to 19.0%, 13.2% and 35.3%, respectively). However, HHAIB reduced the chlorophyll‐a (up to 55.7%) and lycopene (up to 52.6%) contents of okra pods.

CONCLUSION

The acquired knowledge may be useful for better understanding and optimization of technologies based on HHAIB treatment. The HHAIB treated okra can be a promising natural alternative in different applications, including its use as a replacement of some ingredients in food or non‐food systems as a result of richness in polysaccharides and polyphenols, as well as high antioxidant properties. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Analysis of starch structure and functional properties of tetraploid wheat (Triticum turgidum L.) with differing waxy protein composition
Authors: Karim Hassan , Kumar Sujon , Lan Jingyu , Tang Huaping , Guzmán Carlos , Xu Qiang , Zhang Yazhou , Qi Pengfei , Deng Mei , Ma Jian , Wang Jirui , Chen Guoyue , Lan Xiujin , Wei Yuming , Zheng Youliang , Jiang Qiantao
Published: April 2022

BACKGROUND

An increased demand for food has mirrored the increasing global population. Obesity and diabetes are two disorders induced by poor eating choices. Consequently, there is an urgent need to develop modified foods that can ameliorate such illnesses. The objective of this study was to explore the effect of Waxy genes on the structural and functional properties of starch, with the aim of improving food quality. Wild‐type tetraploid wheat was compared with three mutants with different Waxy gene combinations.

RESULTS

The proportion of B‐type granules was higher in the mutants than in the wild‐type (Wx‐AB), and there were significant changes in the starch granule size, number, and phenotype in the Wx free mutant (Wx‐ab). The lowest branch chain length was observed in Wx‐ab, whereas Wx‐AB had the highest branch chain length of DP ≥ 37. Wx‐ab had the highest degree of crystallinity. The crystallinity trend followed the order Wx‐ab>Wx‐Ab>Wx‐aB>Wx‐AB. The amount of slowly digestible starch (SDS) was higher in native, gelatinized, and retrograded starch in the mutant. The amount of retrograded starch was closer to gelatinized starch than to native starch.

CONCLUSION

Waxy proteins make a substantial contribution to starch structure. A lack of waxy proteins reduced the unit chains markedly compared with the control. Waxy proteins significantly affected the smaller and longer chains of starch. The lines with differing waxy composition had different effects on food digestion. The Wx‐AB in native starch and Wx‐Ab in gelatinized starch can control obesity and diabetes by slow‐digesting carbohydrates and high resistance to digestion. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Comparison of three image‐analysis‐based visual texture calculation methods: energy, entropy, and texture change index
Authors: Balaban Murat O , Gümüş Bahar , Gümüş Erkan
Published: April 2022

BACKGROUND

Three image analysis methods to measure visual texture were applied to an image with much texture (scaled carp), and one with little texture (mirror carp). For each method, the effect of image rotation at 0°, 10°, 20°, 30°, 45°, 60°, 75° and 90° was evaluated.

RESULTS

Rotation did not change energy (E) and entropy (H) calculations using image histograms. Using co‐occurrence matrices with different step size d (1–19 in increases of 2) and step angle θ (0°, 45°, 90° and 135°) showed that, as d increased, E decreased and H increased, and the number of legitimate pixel pairs decreased linearly. Averaging E and H at different θ values rendered the results rotation invariant. Theoretically, the ‘texture primitives’ method is not rotation independent. However, the variation in texture change index (TCI) with image rotation was negligible. Also, the increase in TCI between the less textured image and the more textured image was 5.3–11. In comparison, the E values from histograms for the images above were 0.0069–0.0081. For co‐occurrence matrix‐based calculations, at d = 1 and for all θ, E range was from 220 to 389 for scaled carp and from 232 to 412 for mirror carp.

CONCLUSION

The more than doubling of TCI for these images implies that it is a more precise method than energy and entropy to discern between visual texture levels. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Postherpetic pseudohernia: A rare complication of herpes zoster
Authors: Rodriguez‐Bolanos Fabian , Doiron Philip Rodney
Published: April 2022

Herpes zoster (HZ) is caused by the reactivation of the varicella‐zoster virus (VZV), which has the ability to remain latent in neural tissue. We report a case of a rare complication, abdominal pseudohernia, developed in a 63‐year‐old woman, caused by the partial protrusion of the abdominal wall due to paralysis of the muscles.
Drivers of inorganic carbon dynamics and air–water CO2 fluxes in two large tropical estuaries: Insights from coupled radon (222Rn) and pCO2 surveys
Authors: Akhand Anirban , Chanda Abhra , Watanabe Kenta , Das Sourav , Tokoro Tatsuki , Hazra Sugata , Kuwae Tomohiro
Published: April 2022

Estuaries and coastal waters are generally significant emitters of CO2 to the atmosphere. Globally, submarine groundwater discharge (SGD) is a significant driver of inorganic carbon dynamics and the partial pressure of CO2 in water [pCO2(water)] in estuaries and coastal waters. However, there are few studies of CO2 emission and SGD in large tropical estuaries. To investigate the drivers of pCO2(water) dynamics in two large tropical estuaries in India, the Hooghly and Matla estuaries, we conducted coupled radon and pCO2(water) surveys of groundwater and surface waters. We also collected high‐temporal‐resolution (1 min) data of related biogeochemical parameters. Using radon‐222 (222Rn) as a proxy for SGD, we found significant regulation of pCO2(water) by SGD in both studied estuaries. This observation can be considered direct evidence of the influence of SGD on pCO2(water) and consequent air–water CO2 fluxes in these two previously poorly studied estuaries. Our finding that total alkalinity (TAlk) and dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) were also significantly higher in the groundwater than in the estuarine surface waters also supports a substantial contribution of SGD to the inorganic carbon dynamics of these estuaries. However, high groundwater TAlk to DIC ratios (> 1) indicate that SGD also enhances the carbonate buffering capacity in these estuaries. By contributing to an improved understanding of the role of SGD in inorganic carbon cycling in tropical estuaries and coastal oceans, this study will contribute to efforts to upscale regional‐scale coastal carbon budgets to a global scale.
Psychometric properties of a questionnaire to measure adherence to treatment in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Grau‐Del Valle Carmen , Marco‐Expósito José Francisco , Solá Eva , Montoya‐Castilla Inmaculada , Morillas Carlos , Hernández‐Mijares Antonio , Bañuls Celia
Published: April 2022

Aim

To validate the psychometric properties of a questionnaire to measure adherence to treatment among people with type 1 diabetes mellitus and to evaluate its relationship with metabolic control.

Design

A cross‐sectional study of 167 adult people with type 1 diabetes mellitus recruited from the Endocrinology Service of University Hospital Doctor Peset (Spain).

Methods

The validity of the content, construct and reliability of the instrument were evaluated and the results correlated with levels of glycosylated haemoglobin.

Results

The questionnaire was composed of 25 items and 5 dimensions, with a score of 25–150 points and an internal consistency of 0.92, according to Cronbach's coefficient α. The content of validity ratio and the construct (exploratory functional analysis, Kaiser–Meyer–Olkin index and Barlett's spherical test) were adequate. We observed a significant correlation between glycosylated haemoglobin levels and treatment adherence.

Conclusion

The questionnaire to measure adherence to treatment in type 1 diabetes mellitus is consistent, reliable and valid, showing an excellent association with degree of metabolic control.
Co‐delivery of paclitaxel and CXCL1 shRNA via cationic polymeric micelles for synergistic therapy against ovarian cancer
Authors: Xiao Jingjing , Lu Yingying , Deng Lu , Chen Wulian , Hu Weiguo , Zhao Yuqing , Chen Shouzhen
Published: April 2022

The preparation of polymer therapeutics capable of synergistic co‐delivery systems for chemotherapeutic drugs and genes remains a tough problem in cancer therapy. Herein, we develop a novel co‐delivery system for chemotherapeutic drugs and genes. Paclitaxel (PTX) was covalently grafted onto the cationic copolymer poly(ethylene glycol)‐b‐poly(l‐lysine) (PEG‐b‐PLL) via a disulfide bond, and then CXCL1 shRNA was loaded on the cationic micelles PEG‐b‐PLL‐SS‐PTX by electrostatic interaction to construct PEG‐b‐PLL‐SS‐PTX/pDNA complex. The chemical structure of the complex was confirmed by gel permeation chromatography, 1H NMR and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The binding ability of the cationic micelles and pDNA was detected by gel retardation assay. In vitro gene transfection studies revealed an enhanced gene transfection efficiency due to the co‐delivery of PTX and pDNA to ovarian cancer cells. In vitro and in vivo data demonstrated that the co‐delivery complex exhibited a synergistic role of chemotherapy and gene therapy and possessed enhanced antitumor effects. The strategy of using drug‐loaded cationic micelles as gene delivery carriers is a versatile approach to construct a co‐delivery system, which might result in more efficient cancer therapy. © 2022 Society of Industrial Chemistry.
Model‐informed drug development of voxelotor in sickle cell disease: Exposure‐response analysis to support dosing and confirm mechanism of action
Authors: Green Michelle L. , Savic Radojka M. , Tonda Margaret , Jorga Karin , Washington Carla B.
Published: April 2022

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is characterized by the production of sickle hemoglobin (HbS), which when deoxygenated, polymerizes leading to red blood cell damage and hemolytic anemia, a defining feature of SCD. Voxelotor (Oxbryta) is a small molecule inhibitor of HbS polymerization that disrupts the polymerization mechanism by binding HbS to increase HbS oxygen affinity. Voxelotor is approved in the United States for the treatment of SCD in patients greater than or equal to 12 years of age at a 1500 mg once‐daily (q.d.) dose. These exposure‐response analyses aimed to evaluate the relationships between voxelotor whole blood concentration and change from baseline (CFB) in clinical measures of anemia and hemolysis and between voxelotor whole blood and plasma concentrations and the incidence of selected safety end points to confirm the voxelotor mechanism of action and to support the clinical dose recommendation. In patients treated with voxelotor up to 72 weeks, CFB hemoglobin (Hb) increased linearly (p < 0.001) with increasing voxelotor concentration and percent Hb occupancy and increases in CFB Hb corresponded to improvements in measures of hemolysis. The target 1 g/dl increase in CFB Hb was achieved with 1500 mg voxelotor q.d. Significant relationships were observed between voxelotor exposures and grade greater than or equal to 1 increased alanine aminotransferase and decreased white blood cell count; however, most events were grade 1. No clinically important covariate effects on voxelotor efficacy or safety were observed. Overall, these analyses support 1500 mg q.d. as the therapeutic dose for voxelotor in adults and adolescents.
Elucidating Postprogramming Relaxation in Multilevel Cell‐Resistive Random Access Memory by Means of Experimental and Kinetic Monte Carlo Simulation Data
Authors: Reganaz Lucas , Esmanhotto Eduardo , Ait Abdelkader Nazim , Minguet Lopez Joel , Castellani Niccolo , Rafhay Quentin , Deleruyelle Damien , Grenouillet Laurent , Aussenac Francois , Vianello Elisa , Andrieu François , Molas Gabriel
Published: April 2022

This work explores the phenomenon of HfO2resistive random access memory (RRAM) postprogramming resistance relaxation using experimental data and kinetic Monte Carlo (KMC) physical simulation. This issue has become an important limitation for multilevel cell (MLC) applications. The physical KMC simulation replicates the RRAM cell‐to‐cell intrinsic resistance variability due to the conductive filament (CF) morphology fluctuations and the weak correlation between the number of oxygen vacancies and the resulting resistance. It furthermore accurately simulates the vacancies’ microscopic dynamics within the CF that are responsible for the RRAM resistance relaxation. A link between programming current, CF size/configuration, and relaxation amplitude is clarified and shows the ensuing benefits and limitations of smart programming techniques (read & verify) for MLC applications. Coupled with experimental data obtained on HfO2‐based RRAM arrays, this simulation paves the way to a better understanding of the physics at stake in the RRAM relaxation process and provides guidelines to potential technological solutions for MLC reliability prediction.
Magnetic Properties of 3d Transition Metal Atoms (V, Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, or Ni)‐Doped Mg2Si
Authors: Liao Yangfang , Long Xuejun , Xie Jing , Lv Bing , Xiao Qingquan , Xie Quan
Published: April 2022

The magnetic properties of Mg2Si‐based dilute magnetic semiconductors in Mg62X2Si32 systems (X = V, Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, and Ni) are investigated by spin‐polarized first‐principle calculations. The ground‐state magnetic interaction of V‐, Cr‐, or Fe‐doped Mg2Si system is ferromagnetic (FM) coupling, consistent with the double‐exchange mechanism. The Mn‐ or Co‐doped Mg2Si system is antiferromagnetic (AFM) coupling, which can be explained by the superexchange mechanism. The ground state of Ni‐doped Mg2Si is the nonspin‐polarized state. The V‐ or Cr‐doped Mg2Si exhibits half‐metallic character, Mn‐ or Co‐doped Mg2Si is a semiconductor, and Fe‐doped Mg2Si presents metallic nature. It can be seen that different 3d transition metal atom‐doped Mg2Si correspond to different potential applications.
Study of Electron Traps Associated With Oxygen Superlattices in n‐Type Silicon
Authors: Simoen Eddy , Jayachandran Suseendran , Delabie Annelies , Caymax Matty , Heyns Marc
Published: April 2022

In this paper, the deep levels found by Deep‐Level Transient Spectroscopy in Si‐O superlattices (SLs) on n‐type silicon are reported. Samples have been grown with one, two or five silicon‐oxygen layers, separated by 3 nm of silicon. A Cr Schottky barrier (SB) is thermally evaporated on top of the SL. Similar as for p‐type silicon, no deep levels have been found for a bias pulse in depletion, while a broad distribution of electron traps shows up when pulsing into forward bias. At the same time, these bands are absent in a zero SL reference sample. Similar as for the p‐type results, the trap filling of the electron states exhibits a logarithmic capture. The possible origin of this slow filling will be discussed.
Microstructural description of the maniraptoran egg Protoceratopsidovum
Authors: Choi Seung , Barta Daniel E. , Moreno‐Azanza Miguel , Kim Noe‐Heon , Shaw Colin A. , Varricchio David J.
Published: April 2022

Since their discovery in the 1920s, some asymmetric, elongated dinosaur eggs from the Upper Cretaceous of Mongolia have been interpreted as ceratopsian eggs. However, recent views support a maniraptoran affinity mainly based on macroscopic features. Technical advancements in palaeontology provide a novel approach to diagnose maniraptoran eggs, and the discovery of soft ceratopsian eggs makes the debate a timely issue worth revisiting. Here, we analysed Protoceratopsidovum eggshell from southern Mongolia with electron backscatter diffraction and the results were compared with East Asian and North American maniraptoran and ornithischian eggs. The microstructure and crystallography of Protoceratopsidovum confirms the maniraptoran hypothesis, given that it shows diagnostic features of the clade absent from ornithischian (e.g. hadrosaur) eggs. Additional characters, such as egg shape, ornamentation, egg pairing and clutch structure also support a maniraptoran affinity. Protoceratopsidovum has both elongatoolithid (oviraptorosaur egg) and prismatoolithid (troodontid egg) features, and it may bridge the morphological gap between the two established oofamilies. Considering the similarity between Protoceratopsidovum and potential dromaeosaur eggs, at least some Protoceratopsidovum may be deinonychosaur eggs. Fossil localities that yield both deinonychosaurs and Protoceratopsidovum may yield conclusive evidence for the true affinity of this ootaxon. Future discovery of the egg‐laying taxon of Protoceratopsidovum will not only improve our understanding of maniraptoran reproductive biology but also make Protoceratopsidovum a reliable indicator of the palaeobiogeography of that maniraptoran clade.
Processing Technologies for Developing Low GI Foods – A Review
Authors: Mapengo Clarity R. , Emmambux M. Naushad
Published: April 2022

This paper reviews the various technologies employed to lower the glycemic index of foods and provides a future outlook for starchy foods. The glycemic index of foods can be reduced by increasing resistant starch or slowly digestible starch. However, information concerning the parameters/settings and mechanisms by which several technologies can be used are limited. Technologies such as microwave, infrared, ultrasonic, autoclaving, and high hydrostatic pressure can facilitate more interactions between food components, thereby resulting in the formation of various types of resistant starch or slowly digestible starch. Based on the findings of this paper, the use of microwave technology to produce resistant starch has been sufficiently reported in comparison to the other technologies. Given the research done in the last two decades regarding other technologies, there is a need for more research work on optimizing the parameters or processing conditions for thermal and non‐thermal technologies in order to produce low GI starch and starchy foods. There is limited work done on combination treatments that can effectively develop low GI foods. The data provided for glycemic index and starch digestibility kinetics is mostly from in vitro studies.
Comparative Study of Heat‐Moisture Treatment and Annealing on Morphology, Crystallinity, Pasting, and Thermal Properties of Sohphlang (Flemingia vestita) Starch
Authors: Marboh Vegonia , Gayary Mainao Alina , Gautam Gitanjali , Mahanta Charu Lata
Published: April 2022

The impact of heat‐moisture treatment (HMT) and annealing (ANN) on morphology, crystallinity, pasting, and thermal properties of sohphlang starch are determined. Heating of starch with 20%, 25%, and 30% moisture at 100 °C for 16 h is done for HMT while ANN is done for 24 h using 70%, 75%, and 80% moisture levels at 50 °C. Both HMT and ANN result in a rough surface structure and decreased birefringence at the center. The 1047/1022 ratio and crystallinity increase on modification but the A‐type polymorph remains unchanged. Hydrothermal treated starches have significantly increased pasting temperatures and reduced pasting viscosity; HMT starches no longer possess pasting profiles because of lack of trough viscosity; hence no breakdown and setback. Annealed starches show higher final viscosity than native starch (NS) and HMT starches. Both HMT and ANN improve the thermal properties by elevating gelatinization temperatures and gelatinization enthalpy. Moisture levels have a significant impact on the properties of NS, HMT, and ANN starches. Though annealing with 80% moisture alters the sohphlang starch properties, the effect is found to be lesser when compared to heat moisture treatment with 30% moisture. Thus, overall results convey that HMT and ANN can be used as modification techniques of sohphlang starch to modify the properties that can be useful in food applications.
Iron‐induced cellular in vitro neurotoxic responses in rat C6 cell line
Authors: Urati Anuradha , Dey Mangaldeep , Gautam Avtar Singh , Singh Rakesh Kumar
Published: April 2022

Iron is an essential metal critical for normal cellular and biochemical function and it is used as a cofactor in many vital biological pathways within the brain. However, accumulation of excess iron in brain is commonly associated with several neurodegenerative and neurotoxic adverse effects. Chronic exposure of iron leads to an increased risk for several neurodegenerative diseases. The exact mechanism of iron‐induced neurotoxicity is still unclear. Therefore, our study aimed to investigate the mechanism of neurotoxic and neurodegenerative effects through in vitro exposure of ferrous sulphate in rat C6 cell line. The findings of our study have indicated that ferrous sulphate exposure may lead to induction of molecular markers of neuronal inflammation, apoptotic neuronal cell death, amyloid‐beta and hyperphosphorylated tau levels. This study provides a basic mechanistic understanding of signaling pathway and biomarkers involved during iron‐induced neurotoxicity.
Applying the comprehensive model of information seeking to understand chronic illness information scanning: Hong Kong evidence
Authors: Fung Timothy K. F. , Lai Po Yan , Chang Leanne , Leung Ho Man
Published: April 2022

Chronic illness is the most prevalent and costly global public health challenge. To address this challenge, health information is essential for individuals to make informed decisions to self‐manage their health and prevent and monitor chronic illness. Although previous studies show that health information scanning—a form of information gathering behavior to obtain health information, incidentally, when health topics of interest arise during daily conversations with others or through regular use of the media—positively influenced health decisions, little is known about information scanning in the context of chronic illness. This study applied the Comprehensive Model of Information Seeking to examine factors that influence individuals' use of different channels for health information scanning. Using quota sampling to resemble population demographic characteristics, we collected 1100 online survey responses from Chinese‐speaking Hong Kong residents aged from 18 to 65 or older. Three structural equation modeling analyses were performed to examine how antecedent factors and information carrier factors influenced the use of interpersonal/group channels, the Internet‐related channels, and the traditional media channels for scanning chronic illness‐related information. The findings supported that channel utility was an important determinant of health scanning behavior, and channel characteristics were strong predictors of channel utility. However, mixed findings were observed on the relationship between antecedent factors and channel utility across the three‐channel categories, because some antecedent factors had direct influence on health information scanning. These findings will inform the information dissemination and promotional message design for chronic illness prevention and care.
Analysis and homogenisation of a linear Cahn–Larché system with phase separation on the microscale
Authors: Reischmann Lisa , Peter Malte A.
Published: April 2022

We consider the process of phase separation of a binary system under the influence of mechanical stress modelled by the Cahn–Larché system, where the mechanical deformation takes place on a macrosopic scale whereas the phase separation happens on a microscopic level. After linearisation, we prove existence and uniqueness of a weak solution by a Galerkin approach. As discretisation in space leads to a linear differential–algebraic system of equations, we adjust known solution theory for such equations to a weak setting. This approach may be of interest more generally for coupled elliptic–parabolic systems. A‐priori estimates enable us to pass to the homogenisation limit of the linear system rigorously using the concept of two‐scale convergence. A comparison with the formally homogenised full nonlinear problem shows that both systems lead to models of distributed‐microstructure type in the limit and that homogenisation and linearisation commutes.
The Structural Background of Housing Contention in Bucharest and Budapest
Authors: Florea Ioana , Gagyi Agnes , Jacobsson Kerstin
Published: April 2022

This chapter provides a historical introduction to the main factors that influenced housing and housing-related contention dynamics in Budapest and Bucharest, from the two cities’ modernization booms through their socialist and postsocialist periods, focusing on the role of urban development in the two countries’ world-economic integration, and the changing position of housing policy across different political regimes. We show that in both cases, structural characteristics following from the two capital cities’ relatively similar world-economic position constituted long-term conditions that informed housing-related tensions, housing policies and housing contention across presocialist, socialist and postsocialist periods. Besides such structural similarities, the chapter also highlights how national political regimes’ different reactions to the same world-economic pressures resulted in different economic and housing policies on the ground, as well as different political environments for housing struggles.
Housing Contention in Bucharest
Authors: Florea Ioana , Gagyi Agnes , Jacobsson Kerstin
Published: April 2022

This chapter follows the main areas of housing-related tensions—housing poverty and low- to middle-classes’ housing access problem—and the mobilizations linked to them, in the city of Bucharest. It follows them across Romania’s first two decades of privatization started in 1990, the period of post-2008 crisis management, followed by a new growth cycle since 2015. The way different groups in Bucharest politicized and expressed these tensions transformed across time, reflecting also tumultuous political changes at the national level. The main political expressions of housing poverty this chapter follows are struggles against ethnicized evictions and lack of social housing in Bucharest, while homelessness and informal housing remained silent aspects of the field, visibly politicized only at certain moments. In the case of low- to middle-income groups, housing-related costs got politicized through claims about wages and utility prices, rather than focusing on housing access or household debt.
Conclusion
Authors: Florea Ioana , Gagyi Agnes , Jacobsson Kerstin
Published: April 2022

This brief concluding chapter discusses the main benefits of the structural field of contention approach, as well as the ways in which its relevance extends beyond the scope of the study, both in terms of the local context (Budapest and Bucharest) and research area (housing contention). The chapter identifies a number of insights gained for understanding and theorizing about global housing struggles and other social struggles more generally. It suggests that the structural field of contention approach offers a framework for analyzing social conflicts and movements that is sufficiently flexible yet systematic to enable meaningful comparisons across structural and political contexts. Moreover, instead of a unilinear and direct relationship between structural-political processes and social movements, the analysis revealed different forms of local institutionalization and diversified, often contradictory modes of political (re)actions. Our structurally informed field approach offers an integrated way of analyzing contemporary contention in its complexity.