bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Near‐Room‐Temperature Synergetic Response of Magnetism, Dielectricity and Luminescence Based on (C5NH13Cl)2MnBr4
Authors: Yao Hai‐Quan , Li Long‐He , Zhang Shi‐Yong , Peng Yan , Liu Sui‐Jun , Wen He‐Rui , Zhang Jinlei , Ye Heng‐Yun , Song You , Hu Zhao‐Bo
Published: April 2023

Multifunctional materials with working temperatures near room temperature are crucial for practical applications. Until now, it is still a great challenge to obtain such materials. In this paper, a complex of (C5NH13Cl)2MnBr4 (1) with a structural phase transition near room temperature is reported. The phase transition induces switchable magnetic properties, dielectric anomalies and luminescent response over the same range of temperatures. It is the first time the synergetic effect of magnetism, dielectricity and luminescence near room temperature have been observed in the same molecular complex.
Cooperative Supramolecular Polymerization of Triphenylamine bis‐Urea Macrocycles
Authors: Prakash Rahul , Islam Md Faizul , Kothalawala Rajeen Madawa , Hossain Muhammad Saddam , Smith Mark D. , Shimizu Linda S.
Published: April 2023

Herein, we probe the hydrogen bond‐driven self‐assembly of a triphenylamine (TPA) bis‐urea macrocycle in the presence and absence of guests. Comprised of methylene urea‐bridged TPAs with exterior tridodecyloxy benzene solubilizing groups, the macrocycle exhibits concentration‐dependent aggregate formation in THF and H2O/THF mixtures as characterized by 1H NMR and DOSY experiments. Its assembly processes were further probed by temperature‐dependent UV/Vis and fluorescence spectroscopy. Upon heating, UV/Vis spectra exhibit a hypsochromic shift in the λmax, while fluorescence spectra show an increase in emission intensity. Conversely, the protected macrocycle that lacks hydrogen bond donors demonstrates no significant change. Thermodynamic analysis indicates a cooperative self‐assembly pathway with distinct nucleation and elongation regimes. The morphology and structure of the aggregate were elucidated by dynamic light scattering, atomic force microscopy, scanning and transmission electron microscopy. Variable temperature emission spectra were utilized to monitor the impact of guests, such as diphenylacetylene, that can be bound in the columnar channels. The findings suggest that the elongation of assemblies is influenced by the presence of these guests. In comparison, diphenyl sulfoxide, likely functioning as a chain stopper, limited the assembly size. These studies suggest that judicious selection of (co)monomers may modulate the function and utility of these supramolecular systems.
Polarization‐Sensitive Detector of Two‐Dimensional Multilayer Hybrid Perovskite Crystals Showing High Polarization Ratio to Weak Light
Authors: Li Wenjing , Ma Yu , Liu Yi , Xu Haojie , Tang Liwei , Chen Yaoyao , Yang Tian , Gao Changhao , Luo Junhua , Sun Zhihua
Published: April 2023

Two‐dimensional (2D) hybrid perovskite materials have been widely used for polarization‐sensitive photodetection due to their fascinating optical and physical attributes. However, studies on those materials that enable strong polarized‐light activities under a weak‐light condition remain quite scarce. Here, by tailoring aromatic cation into 3D prototype, we have successfully obtained a new 2D hybrid perovskite, (FPEA)2(MA)Pb2Br7 (1, where FPEA is 4‐fluorophenethylammonium and MA is methylammonium). The alternative alignment of inorganic and organic structural components results in significant anisotropy, including optical absorption and electric conductivity. The coupling effect of these anisotropic properties in 1 gives rise to strong dichroic activities toward detecting polarized light. Especially, under weak light intensity (∼330 nW/cm2), it can still generate a large polarization ratio up to 1.35, which is even higher than those of some typical 2D materials (i. e., GeSe ∼1.09). Besides, single crystal‐based photodetector of 1 displays fascinating detecting performances, including large photocurrent on/off ratio (∼104), fast response time (∼154/182 μs) and excellent antifatigued stability. These findings disclose the potentials of 1 as a robust candidate for detecting weak polarized light, which has practical applications in the field of polarized optoelectronics.
New highly efficient high‐breakdown estimator of multivariate scatter and location for elliptical distributions
Authors: Fishbone Justin , Mili Lamine
Published: April 2023

High‐breakdown‐point estimators of multivariate location and shape matrices, such as the ‐estimator with smoothed hard rejection and the Rocke ‐estimator, are generally designed to have high efficiency for Gaussian data. However, many phenomena are non‐Gaussian, and these estimators can therefore have poor efficiency. This article proposes a new tunable ‐estimator, termed the ‐estimator, for the general class of symmetric elliptical distributions, a class containing many common families such as the multivariate Gaussian, ‐, Cauchy, Laplace, hyperbolic, and normal inverse Gaussian distributions. Across this class, the ‐estimator is shown to generally provide higher maximum efficiency than other leading high‐breakdown estimators while maintaining the maximum breakdown point. Furthermore, the ‐estimator is demonstrated to be distributionally robust, and its robustness to outliers is demonstrated to be on par with these leading estimators while also being more stable with respect to initial conditions. From a practical viewpoint, these properties make the ‐estimator broadly applicable for practitioners. These advantages are demonstrated with an example application—the minimum‐variance optimal allocation of financial portfolio investments.
Micro‐ and Nanoscale Heterogeneities in Zeolite Beta as Measured by Atom Probe Tomography and Confocal Fluorescence Microscopy
Authors: van Vreeswijk Sophie H. , Parker Luke A. , Maris J. J. Erik , Poplawsky Jonathan D. , Weckhuysen Bert M.
Published: April 2023

Micro‐ and nanoscale information on the activating and deactivating coking behaviour of zeolite catalyst materials increases our current understanding of many industrially applied processes, such as the methanol‐to‐hydrocarbon (MTH) reaction. Atom probe tomography (APT) was used to reveal the link between framework and coke elemental distributions in 3D with sub‐nanometre resolution. APT revealed 10–20 nanometre‐sized Al‐rich regions and short‐range ordering (within nanometres) between Al atoms. With confocal fluorescence microscopy, it was found that the morphology of the zeolite crystal as well as the secondary mesoporous structures have a great effect on the microscale coke distribution throughout individual zeolite crystals over time. Additionally, a nanoscale heterogeneous distribution of carbon as residue from the MTH reaction was determined with carbon‐rich areas of tens of nanometres within the zeolite crystals. Lastly, a short length‐scale affinity between C and Al atoms, as revealed by APT, indicates the formation of carbon‐containing molecules next to the acidic sites in the zeolite.
Building and Characterization of an Affordable diOlistic Device for Single‐Cell Labeling in Rodent and Non‐Human Primate Brain Slices
Authors: Heffernan Kate S. , Galvan Adriana
Published: April 2023

In the brain, cell morphology often reflects function and thus provides a first glance into cell‐specific changes in health and disease. Studying the morphology of individual cells, including neurons and glia, is essential to fully understand brain connectivity and changes in disease states. Many recent morphological studies of brain cells have relied on transgenic animals and viral vectors to label individual cells. However, transgenic animals are not always available, and in non‐human primate (NHP) models, viral transduction poses several practical and financial challenges, limiting the number of researchers that can thoroughly investigate cell morphology in NHP or other non‐transgenic animals. The diOlistic system for delivering fluorescent lipophilic dye‐coated gold or tungsten particles into brain tissue has been used to label single cells, but the currently available systems are expensive, have limited applications, and are rare in laboratories. Investigations of cell morphology without transgenic or viral approaches rely on immunohistochemical markers that may not reveal structural detail, such as in astrocytes. To overcome these practical limitations to expand our understanding of cell morphology across species with an emphasis on astrocytes, we constructed a low‐cost ballistic method to deliver dye‐coated gold or tungsten particles into NHP and rodent brain slices. We have optimized the tissue processing parameters to achieve penetration of DiI‐coated particles, allowing for the complete reconstruction of individual cells within a brain slice. While we report on astrocytes in rodent and NHP brain slices, this protocol can be adapted and implemented across species and tissue types to evaluate cell morphology. © 2023 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Building the diOlistic device

Basic Protocol 2: Preparation of dye “bullet” carriers

Basic Protocol 3: Perfusion, brain sectioning, and diOlistic labeling

Alternate Protocol: Immunohistochemical labeling of sections prior to diOlistic bombardment
The epilepsy phenotype of ST3GAL3‐related developmental and epileptic encephalopathy
Authors: Whitney Robyn , Jain Puneet , RamachandranNair Rajesh , Jones Kevin C. , Kiani Hassan , Tarnopolsky Mark , Meaney Brandon
Published: April 2023

Objective

ST3GAL3‐related developmental and epileptic encephalopathy (DEE‐15) is an autosomal recessive condition characterized by intellectual disability, language and motor impairments, behavioral difficulties, stereotypies, and epilepsy. Only a few cases have been reported, and the epilepsy phenotype is not fully elucidated.

Methods

A retrospective chart review of two siblings with ST3GAL3‐related DEE was completed. In addition, we reviewed all published cases of ST3GAL3‐related congenital disorder of glycosylation.

Results

Two brothers presented with global developmental delay, motor and language impairment, hypotonia, and childhood‐onset seizures. Seizures started between 2.5 and 5 years and had tonic components. Both siblings had prolonged periods of seizure freedom on carbamazepine. Tremor was present in the younger sibling. Whole exome sequencing revealed two novel pathogenic variants in ST3GAL3, (a) c.302del, p.Phe102Serfs*34 and (b) c.781C>T, p.Arg261*, which were inherited in trans. Magnetic resonance imaging showed T2 hyperintensities and restricted diffusion in the brainstem and middle cerebellar peduncle in the older sibling, also described in two reported cases. A review of the literature revealed 24 cases of ST3GAL3‐related CDG. Twelve cases had information about seizures, and epilepsy was diagnosed in 8 (67%). The median age of seizure onset was 5.5 months. Epileptic spasms were most common (67%). Four children were diagnosed with Infantile Epileptic Spasms syndrome and Lennox Gastaut syndrome (57%). Most children (n = 6, 75%) had seizures despite anti‐seizure medication treatment.

Significance

Seizures related to ST3GAL3‐related DEE often occur in infancy and may present as epileptic spasms. However, seizure onset may also occur outside of infancy with mixed seizure types and show good response to treatment with prolonged seizure freedom. Tremor may also be uniquely observed in this condition.
Synthesis and pyrolysis of various novel pyrrole ester fragrance precursors
Authors: Li Pengyu , Tian Haiying , Han Lu , Li Huaiqi , Ji Yuhang , Yang Jinchu , Lai Miao , Chu Wenjuan , Ji Xiaoming
Published: April 2023

Due to the disadvantages of low fragrance threshold and high volatility of pyrrole monomer under high‐temperature process in tobacco or food, it cannot meet the market requirements. In order to develop pyrrole flavour precursors, 2,5‐dimethyl‐N‐pyrroleacetic acid was synthesized by the Paal–Knorr reaction using 2,5‐hexanedione and glycine as raw materials. Various pyrrole fragrance precursors such as 2‐ethyl‐4‐oxo‐4H‐pyran‐3‐yl 2‐(2,5‐dimethyl‐1H‐pyrrol‐1‐yl)acetate (5a), 4‐formyl‐2‐methoxyphenyl 2‐(2,5‐dimethyl‐1H‐pyrrol‐1‐yl)acetate (5b), pyridine‐2‐ylmethyl 2‐(2,5‐dimethyl‐1H‐pyrrol‐1‐yl)acetate (5c) and thiophen‐2‐ylmethyl 2‐(2,5‐dimethyl‐1H‐pyrrol‐1‐yl)acetate (5d) were synthesized by esterification from 2,5‐dimethyl‐N‐pyrroleacetic acid with ethyl maltol, vanillin, 2‐pyridinemethanol and 2‐thiophenemethanol, respectively. As part of the study, IR, NMR and HRMS were used to characterize the target compounds. Using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry‐olfactometer (GC–MS‐O), the pyrrole esters obtained were evaluated for the characteristics of their aromas. The thermal stability was analysed using thermogravimetric analysis and pyrolysis gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. In addition, the pyrolysis mechanism was speculated. With TG‐DTG results, the main mass loss phase of 5a occurred between 108°C and 450°C, with a dramatic mass loss reduction of 83.07%. At 118.60°C and 450°C, 5b showed a mass loss reduction of 60.80%. Furthermore, according to the Py‐GC/MS analysis results, compounds 5a and 5b formed 8 and 7 pyrolysis products. The main pyrolysis products of 5a and 5b were 1‐ethyl‐2,5‐dimethyl‐1H‐pyrrole, ethyl maltol, and vanillin, which are all aroma components used to blend cigarette smoke, can slow down the rate at which aromas are lost and mask unpleasant smoke. Study results provide a reference for the tobacco industry to further develop new high‐temperature release aroma ingredients.
Translatome analysis reveals microglia and astrocytes to be distinct regulators of inflammation in the hyperacute and acute phases after stroke
Authors: Hernandez Victoria G. , Lechtenberg Kendra J. , Peterson Todd C. , Zhu Li , Lucas Tawaun A. , Bradshaw Karen P. , Owah Justice O. , Dorsey Alanna I. , Gentles Andrew J. , Buckwalter Marion S.
Published: April 2023

Neuroinflammation is a hallmark of ischemic stroke, which is a leading cause of death and long‐term disability. Understanding the exact cellular signaling pathways that initiate and propagate neuroinflammation after stroke will be critical for developing immunomodulatory stroke therapies. In particular, the precise mechanisms of inflammatory signaling in the clinically relevant hyperacute period, hours after stroke, have not been elucidated. We used the RiboTag technique to obtain microglia and astrocyte‐derived mRNA transcripts in a hyperacute (4 h) and acute (3 days) period after stroke, as these two cell types are key modulators of acute neuroinflammation. Microglia initiated a rapid response to stroke at 4 h by adopting an inflammatory profile associated with the recruitment of immune cells. The hyperacute astrocyte profile was marked by stress response genes and transcription factors, such as Fos and Jun, involved in pro‐inflammatory pathways such as TNF‐α. By 3 days, microglia shift to a proliferative state and astrocytes strengthen their inflammatory response. The astrocyte pro‐inflammatory response at 3 days is partially driven by the upregulation of the transcription factors C/EBPβ, Spi1, and Rel, which comprise 25% of upregulated transcription factor‐target interactions. Surprisingly, few sex differences across all groups were observed. Expression and log2 fold data for all sequenced genes are available on a user‐friendly website for researchers to examine gene changes and generate hypotheses for stroke targets. Taken together, our data comprehensively describe the microglia and astrocyte‐specific translatome response in the hyperacute and acute period after stroke and identify pathways critical for initiating neuroinflammation.
Risk factors and outcomes of delirium in hospitalized older Ghanaians
Authors: Omuojine John‐Paul , Bello Toyin , Wemakor Stephen , Mante Priscilla Kolibea , Amponsah George Sedinam , Kusi‐Mensah Kwabena , Owusu‐Antwi Ruth , Sarfo Fred S. , Ohene Sammy , Ojagbemi Akin
Published: April 2023

Objectives

Delirium has been rarely studied in older West Africans. We sought to investigate its correlates and outcomes in hospitalized older Ghanaians.

Methods

This was a one‐month prospective observational study. Delirium prevalence was assessed within 24 h of admission using the Confusion Assessment Method (CAM). Incident delirium was determined with repeat CAM assessments on post‐admission days 4, 7, 14, 21 and 28, after censoring participants with prevalent delirium. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to explore risk factors. Estimates of adjusted hazard ratios for mortality were derived with the discrete time version of the Cox regression model for time invariant explanatory variables.

Results

Among 483 participants, 250 (51.8%, 95% CI: 47.3–56.3) had prevalent delirium while 10 of the remaining 233 (4.3%, 95% CI: 2.1–7.8) developed incident delirium. Being older than 80 years (adjusted odds ratio (OR) = 2.1, 95% CI: 1.2–3.6), having no formal education (OR = 2.2, 95% CI: 1.4–3.4), stroke (OR = 1.8, 95% CI: 1.1–3.0), infection (OR = 1.9, 95% CI: 1.2–3.0), and high Triage Early Warning Score (OR = 6.9, 95% CI: 2.5–19.0) predicted delirium. Delirium (adjusted hazard ratio (HR) = 1.8, 95% CI: 1.0–3.3) and high TEWS (HR = 4.6 (95% CI: 1.7–12.7) at baseline predicted mortality. These factors also predicted longer hospital stay.

Conclusion

Over half of hospital‐treated older Ghanaians in the present study had delirium on the first day of admission. The syndrome prolonged hospitalisation and increased mortality risk. Future studies in West Africa may investigate the epidemiology of delirium in primary care and community settings.
Treatment approaches and outcomes of a head and neck lymphedema service at an Australian comprehensive cancer center
Authors: Venchiarutti Rebecca Louise , Templeton Sandra , Mathers Lara , Charters Emma , Clark Jonathan Robert
Published: April 2023

Background

Patients treated for head and neck cancer are at high risk of developing head and neck lymphedema (HNL). We describe outcomes of HNL management at an Australian institution from 2018 to 2020.

Methods

Electronic records from Chris O'Brien Lifehouse were retrospectively reviewed from January 1, 2018 to December 31, 2020. Objective changes in HNL were assessed using The M. D. Anderson Cancer Center (MDACC) HNL rating scale and Assessment of Lymphedema of the Head and Neck (ALOHA).

Results

Among the 100 patients referred for management of HNL, surgery was the most frequent treatment modality (80%; 70% with neck dissection) and 69% underwent radiotherapy. Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) was most often prescribed (96%), followed by self‐MLD (93%). Small but significant improvements in ALOHA measurements were observed for 50 patients (50%). Only 5/29 (17%) patients had post‐treatment improvements on the MDACC scale.

Conclusions

Standardized, prospective measurement of treatment approaches and outcomes is needed to further evaluate the service.
Evaluating the hemostatic effects of tranexamic acid in women with pre‐eclampsia
Authors: Okoye Helen C. , Othman Maha , Nwagha Theresa U. , Onwusulu Daniel N. , Onoh Robinson C. , Chigbu Chibuike O.
Published: April 2023

Objective

To evaluate the hemostatic effects of tranexamic acid (TXA) ex vivo in women with pre‐eclampsia.

Methods

This was an ex vivo study involving 45 normal pregnant women and 45 women with pre‐eclampsia (nine with mild and 36 with severe features) matched for age, gestational age, and body mass index. Blood samples were collected and divided into two parts. The first served as the pre‐TXA sample, while the second was spiked with TXA and served as the post‐TXA sample. Plasma levels of D‐dimer and plasmin–antiplasmin complex (PAP) were determined using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.

Results

The mean D‐dimer and PAP values in the pre‐TXA samples differed significantly between groups. Following spiking with TXA, the mean D‐dimer and PAP levels did not differ significantly in the pre‐TXA and post‐TXA samples (P = 0.560 and P = 0.500, respectively) in the pre‐eclampsia cohort. In normal pregnancy, the mean D‐dimer and PAP levels in the post‐TXA samples did not differ significantly (P = 0.070 and P = 0.050, respectively) from the pre‐TXA samples following TXA spiking.

Conclusion

TXA did not significantly affect D‐dimer and PAP levels in pre‐eclampsia, suggesting that TXA may not increase the thrombotic risks in patients with pre‐eclampsia.
Effectiveness of mHealth‐based educational interventions to improve self‐care during pregnancy: A pragmatic randomized controlled trial from northern India
Authors: Persis Jenefa , Kathirvel Soundappan , Chopra Seema , Singh Amarjeet
Published: April 2023

Objectives

To assess and compare the effectiveness of mHealth‐based educational interventions on improving pregnancy self‐care knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) and the satisfaction in using the interventions.

Methods

We conducted a three‐group, pragmatic, randomized controlled trial (July 2019–June 2020) among pregnant women (aged 20–45 years, gestation <20 weeks, and no pre‐existing diseases) attending the prenatal clinic of a tertiary care hospital in northern India. Participants were randomly assigned to three arms (Group 1, specially developed mobile application; Group 2, Whatsapp, and Group 3, Control—Standard of care) using block randomization. Blinding was not performed. The educational intervention (for Groups 1 and 2) included general details about pregnancy, self‐care preventive practices, and self‐management of minor illnesses during pregnancy. The control group received routine instructions delivered by the doctors as part of the standard of care. After 3 months, the post‐intervention KAP assessment and satisfaction with interventions/care received were carried out.

Results

Of the 150 pregnant women who participated (50 per group), 70 (46.6%) were graduates and 66 (44.0%) were primigravidas. Mean age was 28 years. Pregnant women in Groups 1 and 2 showed a statistically significant (P < 0.001) improvement in KAP on pregnancy self‐care compared with the control group post‐intervention. However, the same was insignificant (P > 0.05) between Groups 1 and 2. Participant satisfaction with the intervention was significantly high among Group 2 compared with the control group (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

mHealth‐based delivery of self‐care education effectively improved KAP among pregnant women. The effectiveness of mHealth‐based intervention must be assessed in primary healthcare settings before scaling up.

Details of Trial Registration

Registered with Clinical Trial Registry India—CTRI/2019/10/021794 registered on October 29, 2019 (http://ctri.nic.in/Clinicaltrials/pmaindet2.php?trialid=37444&EncHid=&userName=CTRI/2019/10/021794).
The accuracy of haemoglobin A2 measurements in the presence and absence of haemoglobin S
Authors: Myburgh Jane K. , Szydlo Richard M. , Bain Barbara J.
Published: April 2023

The quantification of haemoglobin A2 by high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was compared with quantification by capillary electrophoresis for control subjects and patients with sickle cell trait or sickle cell anaemia. Significant differences were found, with estimated values being higher by HPLC for control subjects and higher by capillary electrophoresis for sickle cell trait and sickle cell anaemia patients. There is an ongoing need for improved standardisation and alignment of methods.
Estimating daily precipitation climatology by postprocessing high‐resolution reanalysis data
Authors: Du Yiliang , Wang Quan J. , Su Chun‐Hsu , Wu Wenyan , Yang Qichun
Published: April 2023

Spatial information of climatological frequency distribution of daily precipitation is highly valuable for a wide range of applications. Accurate estimation of climatology can be made for gauged locations where quality and lengthy observations are available. For ungauged or poorly gauged locations, however, indirect estimation is needed. One approach is to use a gridded daily precipitation dataset derived from interpolating observations. However, gridded daily precipitation data can be subject to large errors when gauge density is low. In addition, most interpolation methods tend to smooth the extreme values and increase the low ones, leading to unrealistic statistical properties and therefore poor estimation of daily climatology. Another approach is to first derive climatology at gauged locations and then interpolate climatology to ungauged locations. While this approach is likely to be more robust than the first approach, low gauge density can still cause significant errors especially in areas of complex terrain. In this study, we develop a method that postprocesses spatially consistent and rich reanalysis data using accurate observations at gauged locations. At an ungauged location, daily precipitation amounts from the reanalysis are bias‐corrected using quantile‐mapping guided by frequency distributions of reanalysis data and observations at a nearby gauged location (reference location). The bias‐corrected precipitation amounts are then used to estimate the climatology for the ungauged location. This method eliminates the need for interpolation and therefore its adverse effects. Special care is taken in quantile‐mapping when extrapolating beyond the range of reanalysis data at the reference location. We evaluate the method at 50 locations in Australia, using the Bureau of Meteorology Atmospheric high‐resolution Regional Reanalysis for Australia (BARRA) and precipitation observation network across Australia. These locations are chosen to represent different climate regions in Australia and have observations to validate the postprocessed reanalysis climatology of daily precipitation. Results show that the postprocessed climatology is consistent with observations, in terms of frequency distribution, high quantiles, probabilities of wet and dry days and their transitions.
Apple polyphenol biotransformation using probiotics in vitro and dynamic simulated digestion by bionic rats
Authors: Zhao Ruixiang , Ran Junjian , Ruan Xiaoli , Du Hanxiao , Li Gang , Zhao Lili , Sun Junliang , Liang Xinhong
Published: April 2023

Background

The present study investigated the effects of fermentation by Lactobacillus rhamnosus zrx01 (LR‐zrx01), Lactobacillus acidophilus zrx02 (LA‐zrx02), and Lactobacillus plantarum zrx03 (LP‐zrx03), as well as dynamic simulated digestion by bionic rats, on the biotransformation and antioxidant potential of apple polyphenols. Polyphenols were determined by ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry, the dynamic simulated digestion of fermented apple pulp was determined by bionic rats, and the antibacterial and antioxidant activities were analyzed.

Results

The polyphenol content of apple pulp fermented using the three strains was respectively 1.41, 1.38, and 1.36 times that of non‐fermented pulp. The antibacterial activity of apple pulp improved dramatically after fermentation. Moreover, the antioxidant potential of apple pulp increased after fermentation and digestion. After dynamic simulated digestion by bionic rats, the polyphenol content in unfermented and the three fermented groups increased significantly by 1.19, 1.23, 1.20, and 1.19 times compared to that before digestion, respectively. The major polyphenols in each group with obvious changes were epicatechin, rutin, kaempferol, quercetin‐3 galactoside, p‐coumaric acid, and two unknown substances, 1 and 2.

Conclusion

Fermented and digested apple polyphenols showed better biotransformation effects and mostly existed in the form of small molecules, which was conducive to the improvement of polyphenol bioavailability and beneficial to the absorption of active substances by the human body. These findings build a foundation for the development of functional food beverages. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Physicochemical properties of wooden breast‐extracted myosin and rheological properties of its heat‐induced gel
Authors: Hasegawa Yasuhiro , Kawasaki Takeshi , Yamada Michi , Hosotani Marina , Maeda Naoyuki , Watanabe Takafumi , Iwasaki Tomohito
Published: April 2023

BACKGROUND

It is reported that broilers with ‘wooden breast’ have poor processing properties, such as low binding and water‐holding capacities. However, the reason for the poor functional characteristics has not been clarified. In this study, myosin was extracted from a wooden breast. Its physicochemical properties were investigated to clarify the relationship between the structure and physicochemical properties of the heating gel of myosin obtained from the wooden breast.

RESULTS

The turbidity of myosin solution extracted from wooden breast increased with increase in the heat treatment to a higher value than that from the normal breast meat myosin. The solubility of myosin collected from a wooden breast after heating decreased like normal breast muscle myosin. The surface hydrophobicity of myosin removed from wooden breast increased continually above 60 °C, unlike the change in surface hydrophobicity of normal breast myosin. The free thiol group of myosin extracted from the wooden breast was higher than normal breast myosin before and after heating. The apparent elasticity of heat‐induced gels and chicken meat sausages was significantly lower in sausages and gel with wooden breast than normal ones (P < 0.05). The microstructure of the heated gel of normal myosin showed a fine network structure. In contrast, the heat‐induced gel of wooden breast‐extracted myosin showed a structure with loosely connected aggregates and many gaps.

CONCLUSION

The coarseness of the internal gel structure of myosin extracted from wooden breast was shown to affect the apparent elasticity of the gel and sausages made from the chicken meat. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Assessing heterogeneity of electronic health‐care databases: A case study of background incidence rates of venous thromboembolism
Authors: Russek Martin , Quinten Chantal , de Jong Valentijn M. T. , Cohet Catherine , Kurz Xavier
Published: April 2023

Purpose

Heterogeneous results from multi‐database studies have been observed, for example, in the context of generating background incidence rates (IRs) for adverse events of special interest for SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccines. In this study, we aimed to explore different between‐database sources of heterogeneity influencing the estimated background IR of venous thromboembolism (VTE).

Methods

Through forest plots and random‐effects models, we performed a qualitative and quantitative assessment of heterogeneity of VTE background IR derived from 11 databases from 6 European countries, using age and gender stratified background IR for the years 2017–2019 estimated in two studies. Sensitivity analyses were performed to assess the impact of selection criteria on the variability of the reported IR.

Results

A total of 54 257 284 subjects were included in this study. Age–gender pooled VTE IR varied from 5 to 421/100 000 person‐years and IR increased with increasing age for both genders. Wide confidence intervals (CIs) demonstrated considerable within‐data‐source heterogeneity. Selecting databases with similar characteristics had only a minor impact on the variability as shown in forest plots and the magnitude of the I2 statistic, which remained large. Solely including databases with primary care and hospital data resulted in a noticeable decrease in heterogeneity.

Conclusions

Large variability in IR between data sources and within age group and gender strata warrants the need for stratification and limits the feasibility of a meaningful pooled estimate. A more detailed knowledge of the data characteristics, operationalisation of case definitions and cohort population might support an informed choice of the adequate databases to calculate reliable estimates.
Adjusting Microscale to Atomic‐Scale Structural Order in PbS Nanocrystal Superlattice for Enhanced Photodetector Performance
Authors: Wang Chuanglei , Chen Zhenjun , Liu Zheng , Ma Tianchan , Chen Xiya , Zhang Menglong , Luo Dongxiang , Hyun Byung‐Ryool , Liu Xiao
Published: April 2023

An investigation is presented into the effect of the long‐range order on the optoelectronic properties of PbS quantum dot (QD) superlattices, which form mesocrystals, for potential use in photodetector applications. By self‐assembly of QD nanocrystals on an Si/SiOx substrate, a highly ordered and densely packed PbS QD superlattice with a microscale size is obtained. The results demonstrate that annealing treatment induces mesocrystalline superlattices with preferred growth orientation, achieved by dislodging ligands. The improved orientation and electronic coupling of the mesocrystalline superlattices exhibit superior photodetector performance compared to disordered QD structures and closely packed superlattices. This improved performance is attributed to atomic alignment between QDs, leading to enhanced electronic coupling. The findings suggest that these mesocrystalline superlattices have promising potential for the next generation of QD optoelectronic devices.
Electronic Structure Engineering of Pt Species over Pt/WO3 toward Highly Efficient Electrocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Fan Xueliang , Liu Cong , Gao Boxu , Li He , Zhang Yahong , Zhang Hongbin , Gao Qingsheng , Cao Xiaoming , Tang Yi
Published: April 2023

Pt‐based supported materials, a widely used electrocatalyst for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), often experience unavoidable electron loss, resulting in a mismatching of electronic structure and HER behavior. Here, a Pt/WO3 catalyst consisting of Pt species strongly coupled with defective WO3 polycrystalline nanorods is rationally designed. The electronic structure engineering of Pt sites on WO3 can be systematically regulated, and so that the optimal electron‐rich Pt sites on Pt/WO3‐600 present an excellent HER activity with only 8 mV overpotential at 10 mA cm−2. Particularly, the mass activity reaches 7015 mA mg−1 at the overpotential of 50 mV, up to 26‐fold higher than that of the commercial Pt/C. The combination of experimental and theoretical results demonstrates that the O vacancies of WO3 effectively mitigate the tendency of electron transfer from Pt sites to WO3, so that the d‐band center could reach an appropriate level relative to Fermi level, endowing it with a suitable . This work identifies the influence of the electronic structure on catalytic activity.
Nursing Research and Audit in the Transplant Setting
Authors: Eeltink Corien , Liptrott Sarah Jayne , Stringer Jacqui
Published: April 2023

Nursing research is a systematic inquiry that uses disciplined methods to answer questions or solve problems in order to expand the knowledge base within a given field. There are various issues to address in order to complete a successful study. The aim of this chapter is to provide the reader with an overview of the key topics for consideration and give guidance as to where to go for further information. Providing best care to patients undergoing HSCT is the moral and ethical duty of all nurses. As a consequence, awareness of, and involvement in, research as the vehicle to ensuring best practice is also our moral duty.
BMT Settings, Infection and Infection Control
Authors: Murray John , Samarani Emanuela , Renica Chiara , Agreiter Iris , Orlando Laura , Hutt Daphna
Published: April 2023

Despite improvements over the past several decades, infection remains a significant risk to all haematological patients receiving therapy. Those requiring allogeneic transplant and especially those that have HLA disparity or T-cell-depleted grafts have an even higher risk of infective complications due to delayed recovery of T- and B-cell function. Patients receiving CAR-T therapy also present unique problems related to their B cell aplasia. Early identification with prompt effective treatment is paramount to improve all patients’ survival. The recent pandemic has further highlighted patient safety through robust adherence to hand hygiene and maintenance of the environment with cleaning and disinfection as the backbone of an effective infection preventative program. Basic nursing care and a sound knowledge base of the risks, presentation, diagnosis and treatment will improve patient care.
Pflegepersonalvorgaben im Krankenhaus
Authors: Schmedders Mechtild , Trewendt Christina , Egerer Johannes
Published: April 2023

In den letzten dreißig Jahren wurden zahlreiche ordnungspolitische Maßnahmen angestoßen, die die pflegerische Versorgung im Krankenhaus steuern und verbessern sollen. Diese Maßnahmen lassen sich in verschiedene Kategorien gruppieren: Bei einigen wird über Finanzierungsmechanismen gesteuert, andere setzen bei der Patientensicherheit und Qualitätssicherung an. Zunächst wird in diesem Beitrag chronologisch die Abfolge der jeweils gesetzlich verankerten Steuerungsansätze dargestellt und die jeweiligen Intentionen und Effekte beleuchtet. Er kulminiert schließlich in dem in der vorangegangenen und dieser Legislaturperiode vehement geführten Streit über die Alternativen einer Pflegepersonalbedarfsermittlung in den Krankenhäusern. Abschließend werden Kriterien formuliert, die erfüllt sein müssen, wenn man die Situation der Pflege und der Pflegekräfte in den Kliniken nachhaltig stärken möchte.
Vergütung der Pflege im Krankenhaus: neue Ansätze
Authors: Augurzky Boris , Finke Sabine
Published: April 2023

Die Vergütung der Pflege im Krankenhaus steht seit vielen Jahren auf dem Prüfstand. Durch Maßnahmen wie beispielsweise die Pflegekomplexmaßnahmen-Scores gelang es nicht, eine angemessene Vergütung der Pflege herbeizuführen. Idealerweise sollte sich die Vergütung der Pflege an der erbrachten Pflegequalität orientieren. Allerdings ist die Pflegequalität derzeit nicht in ausreichendem Maße messbar. Wenn davon auszugehen ist, dass die tatsächlich geleisteten Pflegeminuten mit der erbrachten Pflegequalität positiv korrelieren, können leistungsorientierte Modelle wie zum Beispiel die LEP eine Vergütungsoption sein. Wir schlagen indessen einen anderen pragmatischen Ansatz zur Vergütung der „Pflege am Bett“ vor: die am Patienten erbrachten Pflegeminuten – differenziert nach Qualifikationsniveau. Sie könnten direkt mit den Krankenkassen abgerechnet werden. Damit würde die Pflege stärker erlösrelevant und einen deutlich höheren Stellenwert im Krankenhaus erhalten. Eine aufwandsarme Messung der Pflegeminuten ist über die Nutzung digitaler Techniken realisierbar. Pflegeleistungen, die nicht direkt am Patienten erbracht werden, würden pauschal im Rahmen der DRG vergütet. Dieses Modell kann je nach Verfügbarkeit von Qualitätsmessinstrumenten in der Pflege mit der Zeit erweitert werden, um damit auch die Pflegequalität zu vergüten.
Der Vorschlag der Regierungskommission für eine grundlegende Reform der Krankenhausvergütung
Authors: Busse Reinhard , Karagiannidis Christian , Augurzky Boris , Schmitt Jochen , Bschor Tom
Published: April 2023

Die Regierungskommission für eine moderne und bedarfsgerechte Krankenhausversorgung hat im Dezember 2022 ihren Reformvorschlag vorgelegt, der aus drei Kernelementen besteht: (1) Krankenhäuser werden in drei einheitlich definierte Krankenhaus-Versorgungsstufen (Level) eingeteilt. (2) Das Leistungsspektrum der einzelnen Krankenhäuser wird durch ein System von Leistungsgruppen definiert, die passgenauer als DRGs (wegen sehr hoher Granularität) oder Fachabteilungen (wegen zu niedriger Spezifität) den Leveln zugeordnet und dem Bevölkerungsbedarf angepasst werden können. (3) Die derzeit fast ausschließlich mengenbezogene DRG-basierte Vergütung wird zugunsten eines Zwei-Säulen-Modells durch Hinzufügen einer Vorhaltefinanzierung – bei gleichzeitiger Reduktion der DRG-Komponente – verändert. Der Beitrag gibt einen Überblick über die Vorschläge, auch zur Anzahl von geeigneten Krankenhausstandorten für ausgewählte Leistungsgruppen.
Statistische Krankenhausdaten: Diagnosedaten der Krankenhauspatienten 2020
Authors: Schelhase Torsten
Published: April 2023

Die Diagnosen der Krankenhauspatienten bilden das gesamte vollstationäre Geschehen in den deutschen Krankenhäusern ab. Dieser Beitrag beschreibt die Ergebnisse der Diagnosedaten der Krankenhauspatienten für das Jahr 2020. Diese amtliche Statistik wird seit 1993 jährlich als Vollerhebung durchgeführt, alle Krankenhäuser in Deutschland sind auskunftspflichtig. Erfasst werden alle Patienten, die im Berichtsjahr aus der vollstationären Behandlung eines Krankenhauses entlassen werden. Im Jahr 2020 waren es mehr als 17 Mio. Patienten; damit ist die Fallzahl im Vorjahresvergleich deutlich gesunken. Die Ergebnisse der Diagnosen werden nach wichtigen Indikatoren wie Hauptdiagnosen, Alter, Geschlecht und Verweildauer dargestellt. Aufgrund geschlechts- und altersspezifischer Morbiditätshäufigkeiten werden die Ergebnisse teilweise standardisiert und so um den demographischen Effekt bereinigt. Dadurch sind bevölkerungsunabhängige Aussagen möglich.
Krankenhaus-Directory 2021 – DRG-Krankenhäuser im Vergleich
Authors: Mostert Carina , Pritzkau Andreas
Published: April 2023

Das Directory deutscher Krankenhäuser bietet eine jährlich aktualisierte Übersicht stationärer Leistungserbringer. Die Darstellung umfasst unter anderem Informationen zur Struktur des vereinbarten Leistungsangebots, zum Grad der Spezialisierung, zur regionalen Marktpositionierung und Wettbewerbssituation sowie Informationen zur Ergebnisqualität nach dem Verfahren Qualitätssicherung mit Routinedaten (QSR). Es finden die Daten von 1.300 Krankenhäusern Eingang, zu denen eine Budgetvereinbarung für das Jahr 2019 oder aktuelle QSR-Behandlungsergebnisse vorliegen. Grund für die Darstellung der Budgetvereinbarungsdaten aus 2019 ist, dass die Budgetverhandlungen ab 2020 deutlich verzögert stattfinden und die darin vereinbarten Leistungsmengen pandemiebedingt zum Teil deutlich von den tatsächlich erbrachten Leistungen abweichen.
Pflegeintensität und pflegesensitive Ergebnisindikatoren in deutschen Krankenhäusern
Authors: Winter Vera , Schreyögg Jonas , Blume Kai Svane
Published: April 2023

Der vorliegende Beitrag gibt einen Einblick in den aktuellen Stand der Forschung zum Zusammenhang zwischen der Pflegepersonalausstattung und Patientenergebnissen. Dabei sollen sowohl die internationale Forschung synthetisiert als auch empirische Evidenz aus deutschen Krankenhäusern geliefert werden. Letztere wurde im Innovationsfonds-Projekt „PPE: Pflegesensitive patient:innenbezogene Ergebnisindikatoren“ generiert. Die Pflegepersonalausstattung umfasst dabei zwei Aspekte: zum einen das Patienten-Pflegepersonal-Verhältnis, sprich wie viele Patientinnen und Patienten eine Pflegekraft durchschnittlich zu versorgen hat. Zum zweiten geht es um den Qualifikationsmix, also die Frage, wie das Verhältnis von Pflegekräften mit dreijähriger Ausbildung zu kürzer ausgebildeten Pflegekräften ist. Die untersuchten Patientenergebnisse umfassten Letalität, Wiederaufnahmen ins Krankenhaus, Druckgeschwüre, Lungenversagen, Pneumonie und Sepsis (auf Basis von Abrechnungsdaten der TK-Krankenkasse) sowie die von Patientinnen und Patienten erlebte Pflegequalität im Krankenhaus, wofür eine umfangreiche Befragung von TK-Versicherten durchgeführt wurde. Es wurden signifikante Zusammenhänge zwischen der Pflegepersonalausstattung und Patientenergebnissen festgestellt, wobei die Anzahl signifikanter Ergebnisse substanziell von der betrachteten Fachabteilung und dem Patienten-Outcome abhing. Unter den klinisch beobachtbaren Patientenergebnissen zeigte sich die stärkste empirische Evidenz für die Pflegesensitivität von Pneumonie und Lungenversagen, wohingegen die Evidenz für globalere Outcomes wie Letalität und Wiederaufnahmen schwächer war. Für alle drei untersuchten Dimensionen von der von Patientinnen und Patienten erlebten Pflegequalität zeigte sich ein signifikanter Zusammenhang sowohl mit der Pflegepersonalausstattung als auch mit dem Qualifikationsmix. Die Ergebnisse wurden zu verschiedenen Zeitpunkten mit Fachleuten aus der Praxis, unter anderem des Verbandes der Universitätsklinika Deutschlands (VUD), diskutiert.
Rahmenbedingungen und Herausforderungen im Personalmanagement
Authors: Oswald Julia , Neumeyer Henriette , Visarius Maike
Published: April 2023

Im Dienstleistungsunternehmen Krankenhaus ist das Personal ein entscheidender Erfolgs- und Wettbewerbsfaktor und damit ein zentraler Aufgabenbereich für das Management von Krankenhäusern. Ausgehend von der betriebswirtschaftlichen Relevanz des Personals für Krankenhäuser sowie vom Grundverständnis eines professionellen Personalmanagements beschreibt der Beitrag ausgewählte branchenspezifische Rahmenbedingungen und Herausforderungen des Werte- und Strukturwandels mit besonderem Fokus auf das ärztliche Personal und das Pflegepersonal. Auf der Grundlage von analytischen Herleitungen und empirischen Erkenntnissen sowie erprobten Praxisbeispielen werden Konsequenzen beschrieben, die sich bei der Veränderung von Versorgungsstrukturen, der Arbeitsmarktlage und des demographischen Wandels, der Etablierung von Arbeitszeitmodellen und weiteren Maßnahmen zur Verbesserung der Arbeitsbedingungen, der Internationalisierung des Gesundheitsmarktes, der Akademisierung der Pflege sowie der fortschreitenden Digitalisierung der Arbeitswelt ergeben. Abschließend wird auf Erfahrungen und Lerneffekte bezüglich des Personalmanagements aus der Corona-Pandemie für Krankenhäuser geblickt.
Innovatives Personalmanagement im Krankenhaus – eine Studie zu Chancen und Grenzen der transformationalen Führung in der Pflege
Authors: Pauldrach Silvia , Büchler Monika , Wittland Michael
Published: April 2023

Die Gestaltung besserer Arbeitsbedingungen zur Förderung der Arbeits- und Berufsattraktivität in der Pflege ist eine der zentralen Fragen für die Zukunft des deutschen Gesundheitswesens. In Zeiten des Fachkräftemangels und zunehmend heterogener Teams gilt es dabei mehr denn je, im Personalmanagement die Bedürfnisse einzelner Mitarbeitender in den Blick zu nehmen, sodass diese ihre Kompetenzen und Fähigkeiten einbringen können und wollen. Dabei rückt auch das Führungsverständnis der Führungskräfte in den Fokus. Der vorliegende Beitrag zeigt am Beispiel der Pflege zunächst verschiedene Gestaltungsfelder eines mitarbeiterorientierten Personalmanagements auf. Im zweiten Teil wird dann eine Studie zu Potenzialen und Herausforderungen eines transformationalen Führungsstils präsentiert. Anhand der Ergebnisse der qualitativen Studie mit neun Führungskräften aus Institutionen der Pflege wird deutlich, dass das transformationale Führungsverhalten einzelner Führungskräfte als zentraler Baustein eines innovativen Personalmanagements zwar bedeutsam ist, aber sowohl im Hinblick auf Umsetzung wie auch Wirkung einer entsprechenden Einbettung in der Gesamtinstitution bedarf. Förderliche Rahmenbedingungen können die beschriebenen Gestaltungsfelder sowie der Ansatz des Magnetkrankenhauses bieten, der zentrale Aspekte dieser vereint.
Investigations into the stability of anthocyanins in model solutions and blackcurrant juices produced with various dejuicing technologies
Authors: Wagner Annette , Dussling Stefan , Nowak Alexander , Zimmermann Lisa , Bach Peter , Ludwig Michael , Kumar Keshav , Will Frank , Schweiggert Ralf , Steingass Christof B.
Published: April 2023

Blackcurrant juices were produced with an oxygen-excluding spiral filter press and two conventional pressing systems exerting common oxygen exposure at pilot plant scale (200 kg) in technological duplicate in two subsequent years (n = 4). In contrast to findings on previously studied fruits, contents of total and individual anthocyanins were not significantly higher after spiral filter (1636–1872 mg/L) than after conventional pressing (1529–2083 mg/L). During storage for 52 weeks at 4, 20 and 37 °C, anthocyanin levels depended strongly on storage temperature, but not on the used pressing system (conventional vs. oxygen-reduced). Other juice quality parameters like ascorbic acid behaved likewise. Furthermore, a D-optimal design of experiments was used to study the influence and interactions of the factors oxygen, ascorbic acid, sugar and pH value on anthocyanin levels during a heat treatment in a model solution made with preparatively isolated blackcurrant anthocyanins. In agreement with our production trials at pilot plant scale, oxygen levels were only marginally important for the rate of anthocyanin degradation, but the influence of sugar content, ascorbic acid content and pH value was highly relevant as discussed in this report.