bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Melatonin Prevents Cartilage Degradation in Early-Stage Osteoarthritis Through Activation of miR-146a/NRF2/HO-1 Axis
Authors: Zhou Xinfeng , Zhang Yijian , Hou Mingzhuang , Liu Hao , Yang Huilin , Chen Xi , Liu Tao , He Fan , Zhu Xuesong
Published: February 2022

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are implicated in induction of inflammatory response and cartilage degradation in osteoarthritis (OA). Melatonin has been shown to improve the chondrogenic differentiation and promote cartilage matrix synthesis in mesenchymal stem cells. However, the underlying mechanisms of melatonin-regulated antioxidant activity in OA cartilage are not known. The aim of this study was to explore the effect of melatonin on nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2), a key antioxidant transcription factor, and its target antioxidant genes in early-stage OA cartilage. Primary chondrocytes were isolated from rats with surgically induced OA. In vitro treatment of melatonin significantly increased cartilage matrix synthesis and upregulated antioxidant enzymes, mainly heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1), while decreasing matrix degradation enzymes and intracellular ROS. In vivo intraarticular injection of melatonin effectively ameliorated cartilage degeneration in an experimental rat OA model. Inhibition of melatonin membrane receptors by Luzindole or 4-P-PDOT reversed the beneficial effects of melatonin on cartilage matrix synthesis, implying that melatonin receptor-mediated pathway is involved in its anti-arthritic effects. Interestingly, melatonin showed no significant effect on the mRNA level of Nrf2 but significantly increased its protein level. Silencing of Nrf2 or HO-1 expression abolished the protective effects of melatonin, as shown by increased ROS levels and matrix degradation enzyme expression. Microarray assays revealed that miR-146a, a predicted target for Nrf2, was significantly upregulated in OA chondrocytes but was markedly reduced by melatonin treatment. Overexpression of miR-146a diminished the protective effects of melatonin by inhibiting NRF2 expression and aggravating OA-induced cartilage degradation. These findings demonstrate that melatonin supports the anabolic metabolism of cartilage matrix in OA chondrocytes by enhancing the protein levels of NRF2 via suppressing miR-146a. Melatonin-mediated activation of the NRF2/HO-1 axis prevents cartilage degeneration and represents a promising therapeutic target for treatment of early-stage OA. © 2022 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).

Abstract

Illustration of the protective effect of melatonin on treating OA. Intraarticular injection of melatonin prevents the progress of rats OA by rescuing the cartilage ECM loss. Mechanically, melatonin promotes the translocation of NRF2 via inhibiting the expression of miR-146a. Activated NRF2 signaling pathway enhances the antioxidant enzyme HO-1, which inhibits excess intracellular ROS to regulate cartilage matrix metabolism.
The strength and selectivity of perfluorinated nano‐hoops and buckybowls for anion binding and the nature of anion‐π interactions
Authors: Fan Dan , Du Juan , Dang Jingshuang , Wang Changwei , Mo Yirong
Published: February 2022

Perfluorinated cycloparaphenylenes (F‐[n]CPP, n = 5–8), boron nitride nanohoop (F‐[5]BNNH), and buckybowls (F‐BBs) were proposed as anion receptors via anion‐π interactions with halide anions (Cl−, Br− and I−), and remarkable binding strengths up to −294.8 kJ/mol were computationally verified. The energy decomposition approach based on the block‐localized wavefunction method, which combines the computational efficiency of molecular orbital theory and the chemical intuition of ab initio valence bond theory, was applied to the above anion‐π complexes, in order to elucidate the nature and selectivity of these interactions. The overall attraction is mainly governed by the frozen energy component, in which the electrostatic interaction is included. Remarkable binding strengths with F‐[n]CPPs can be attributed to the accumulated anion‐π interactions between the anion and each conjugated ring on the hoop, while for F‐BBs, additional stability results from the curved frameworks, which distribute electron densities unequally on π‐faces. Interestingly, the strongest host was proved to be the F‐[5]BNNH, which exhibits the most significant anisotropy of the electrostatic potential surface due to the difference in the electronegativities of nitrogen and boron. The selectivity of each host for anions was explored and the importance of the often‐overlooked Pauli exchange repulsion was illustrated. Chloride anion turns out to be the most favorable anion for all receptors, due to the smallest ionic radius and the weakest destabilizing Pauli exchange repulsion.
Dominant bacteria and influencing factors of early intestinal colonization in very low birth weight infants: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Lu Yanbo , Cai Xiaohong , Zheng Yao , Lyv Qin , Wu Junhua
Published: February 2022

Background

The intestine of newborns is colonized by bacteria immediately after birth. This study explored dominant bacteria and influencing factors of early intestinal colonization in the early life of very low birth weight infants (VLBWI).

Methods

We enrolled 81 VLBWI and collected anal swabs at 24 h, 7th, 14th and 21st day after birth. We conducted bacterial culture for anal swabs, then selected the colony with obvious growth advantages in the plate for further culture and identification. Afterward, we analyzed the distribution and influencing factors of intestinal dominant microbiota combined with clinical data.

Results

A total of 300 specimens were collected, of which 62.67% (188/300) had obvious dominant bacteria, including 29.26% (55/188) Gram‐positive bacteria and 70.74% (133/188) Gram‐negative bacteria. The top five bacteria with the highest detection rates were Klebsiella pneumoniae, Escherichia coli, Enterococcus faecium, Enterococcus faecalis and Serratia marcescens. Meconium‐stained amniotic fluid and chorioamnionitis were correlated with intestinal bacterial colonization within 24 h of birth. Mechanical ventilation and antibiotics were independent risk factors affecting colonization. Nosocomial infection of K. pneumoniae and S. marcescens were associated with intestinal colonization. The colonization rates of K. pneumoniae, E. coli, E. faecium, and E. faecalis increased with the birth time.

Conclusions

The colonization rate in the early life of VLBWI increased over time and the predominant bacteria were Gram‐negative bacteria. Meconium‐stained amniotic fluid and chorioamnionitis affect intestinal colonization in early life. Mechanical ventilation and antibiotics were independent risk factors for intestinal bacterial colonization. The nosocomial infection of some bacteria was significantly related to intestinal colonization.
Wellbeing, coping with homeschooling, and leisure behavior at different COVID‐19‐related lockdowns: A longitudinal study in 9‐ to 16‐year‐old German children
Authors: Poulain Tanja , Meigen Christof , Kiess Wieland , Vogel Mandy
Published: February 2022

Background

School closures are an effective measure against the spread of Covid‐19. However, they pose a major challenge to children, especially to those from socially disadvantaged families. The present study compared the wellbeing, coping with homeschooling, and leisure behavior of children and adolescents at two different periods of school closures in Germany. Wellbeing was also compared with wellbeing before the pandemic.

Methods

Within the framework of the cohort study LIFE Child, 152 9‐ to 16‐year‐old children completed online surveys on wellbeing (KIDSCREEN‐27 scales on physical wellbeing, psychological wellbeing, and peer and social support), coping with homeschooling (concentration, motivation, fun, mastering of schoolwork, fear of bad marks), and leisure behavior (TV time, computer gaming time, indoor physical activity) during two COVID‐19‐related lockdowns in March 2020 (t1) and in January 2021 (t2). Data from both time points were compared using mixed‐effect models. Wellbeing was additionally compared with the wellbeing in 2019, before COVID‐19 (t0). We also assessed the effects of the socio‐economic status (SES) on all outcomes and changes between time points.

Results

All considered wellbeing scores declined significantly between t0 and t1. Physical wellbeing decreased further between t1 and t2, while social support increased. Coping with homeschooling degraded significantly between t1 and t2, while leisure behavior did not change significantly. Lower SES was associated with lower physical wellbeing, poorer coping with homeschooling, longer computer gaming times, and a stronger decrease of concentration on schoolwork from t1 to t2.

Conclusion

Repeated school closures have a negative effect on already compromised physical wellbeing and coping with homeschooling, especially in children from lower social strata.
Dissipation and effect of glyphosate during composting of organic wastes
Authors: Grenier Vanessa , Moingt Matthieu , Lucotte Marc , Pitre Frederic E.
Published: February 2022

The addition of organic matter (OM) containing glyphosate during compost production, through the introduction of contaminated plant residues or sewage sludge, presents a risk of hindering the proper OM breakdown carried out by microorganisms and causing the accumulation of glyphosate or aminomethylphosphonic acid (AMPA). To measure the effect of glyphosate and glyphosate‐based herbicide (GBH) on OM decomposition as well as the dissipation of glyphosate to AMPA during composting, a controlled‐environment experiment was conducted using mesocosm‐scale vessels. Analytical‐grade (AG) glyphosate (150 mg kg–1) and GBH (VisionMAX) equivalent to the amounts applied in agricultural areas (300 mg kg–1) were added to a mixture of green residues, which were then composted for 112 d. Sampling after 2, 7, 28, and 112 d showed a negligible effect of glyphosate and GBH on physicochemical properties of the mixture (temperature, OM%, pH, total carbon [C], total nitrogen [N], and C/N ratio), ammonification, nitrification, and phosphate content. No differences between AG glyphosate and GBH treatments were measured. Glyphosate levels decreased significantly after 2 d to reach 53.1 and 71.1% of the initial content for the AG glyphosate and GBH treatments, respectively, and glyphosate dissipation was almost complete after 112 d of composting. Aminomethylphosphonic acid could not be detected at any time during the experiment regardless of the treatment. Our results show that conditions for OM decomposition were maintained despite the addition of glyphosate and suggest that only trace amounts of glyphosate or AMPA are likely to be present in mature compost.
Clinical characteristics and viral analysis of severe influenza A [H1N1]pdm09 in Guangzhou, 2019
Authors: Dou Min , Song Wenjun , Lin Yongping , Chen Qigao , Lu Chang , Liu Zhongmin
Published: February 2022

To understand the clinical characteristics of and analyze viral genes in patients with severe pneumonia due to [H1N1]pdm09 influenza virus in Guangzhou, 2019. The clinical data of 120 inpatients with laboratory‐confirmed influenza A [H1N1]pdm09 virus from January to March 2019 were collected and analyzed. The subjects were diagnosed according to the criteria of the “Diagnosis and Treatment Program of Influenza A H1N1 (third Edition 2009)” issued by the Ministry of Health and were divided into severe and nonsevere groups. Serum samples during fever were collected for cytokine analysis, and the viral genes were analyzed after the virus cultured in MDCK cells. The data were analyzed by SPSS 16 software, and the results of gene sequencing were analyzed by MEGA 6 software. Among the 120 inpatients, 36 (30%) were severe and 84 (70%) were nonsevere patients. The average age of severe patients was 53.11 ± 19.94 years, the average age of nonsevere patients, at 44.03 ± 24.47 years. There was no significant difference between the two groups (p < 0.05). There were significant differences in the rates of moist rales and dyspnea in critically ill patients (p < 0.05). There were significant differences in the white blood cell count (WBC), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), creatine kinase (CK), serum creatinine (sCr), procalcitonin (PCT) and C‐reactive protein (CRP) in severe patients with type A H1N1. Chest radiologic findings in severe patients showed ground glass shadows or pulmonary solid changes, and the difference was statistically significant for pulmonary fibrosis. Chronic lung disease (52.8%) and cardiovascular disease (27.8%) were independent risk factors for severe disease (p < 0.05). There were significant differences in secondary infections by Staphylococcus aureus (11.1%), pulmonary Aspergillus (22%) and Acinetobacter baumannii (16.7%) in critically ill patients (p < 0.05). Serum IL‐8 in critically ill patients was significantly higher than those in nonsevere patients and healthy controls. The origin of virus strains in severe and nonsevere patients was the same, and there was no obvious mutation in the amino acid region of the antigenic site of the HA protein, but compared with the results of gene sequencing in previous years, the mutation sites showed a trend of annual accumulation. In conclusion, there was a high risk of severe pneumonia caused by H1N1 influenza A virus in Guangzhou in spring 2019. Long‐term continuous surveillance, prevention and control of the virus should be carried out to predict its epidemiology and distribution.
Effects of sand burial caused by ant nests on soil microbial biomass, basal respiration, and enzyme activity in/under biocrusts in vegetated areas of the Tennger Desert
Authors: Liu Yanmei , Jia Rongliang , Yang Hangyu , Xing Zisheng , Shi Guoxi , Cui Zheming
Published: February 2022

Sand burial of crusts, caused by ant burrowing, is a common phenomenon in desert landscapes, yet the potential impacts on soil processes are unknown. Three sand burial depths, 3.0–5.0 mm (deep burial), 1.0–1.5 mm (shallow burial), and 0 mm (control) affecting two dominant biocrusts (viz., cyanobacteria‐lichen crusts and moss crusts) sampled in the moist and dry seasons were selected to explore this issue in two vegetation areas of the Tennger Desert. We collected 180 samples from biocrust layers and topsoil to assess soil physicochemical properties, microbial biomass, basal respiration, and enzymes activities. The results showed that sand burial of crusts reduced soil microbial biomass, basal respiration, and enzyme activities, while deep burial caused a substantial decline in these parameters. Sand burial interfered with the biocrusts structure (e.g., rupture and flaking) and properties, subsequently causing soil‐nutrient deprivation and soil microclimate deterioration. These are major mechanisms for decreasing soil microbial biomass, basal respiration, and enzyme activities. Moss crusts had significantly higher levels of the microbial parameters than cyanobacteria‐lichen crusts following sand burial, indicating that biocrusts' tolerance to sand burial was synchronized with their progressive succession. In addition, soil microbial parameters were higher in natural vegetation areas than artificial vegetation areas following sand burial. Such observations suggest that high soil fertility could mitigate the negative effects of sand burial on soil processes. In conclusion, sand burial induces biocrust degradation and further disturbs surface soil processes in arid desert ecosystems.
Interaction of anti‐wear additiveTCPwith advanced bearing steels
Authors: Trivedi Hitesh K. , Rosado Lewis
Published: February 2022

The quest for high‐performance energy efficient aircraft turbine engines has led to the development of a number of high‐performance rolling element bearing materials and engine lubricants with the aim of providing superior mechanical component durability. The heat treatments/surface treatments used to achieve the desired physical and mechanical properties for these newer alloys can result in altered surface chemistry from currently used materials. Surface chemistry plays an important role during lubricant‐bearing material interactions and the formation of beneficial tribological films during component operation. The objective of this study was to analyse the tribo‐films formed on bearing surfaces and investigate the interaction of lubricant additives, specifically the phosphorus‐based anti‐wear additive tricresyl phosphate (TCP), with different bearing materials under relevant bearing operating conditions. Bearing tests were conducted on 208‐size (40 mm bore) angular contact bearings at 127°C and 154°C using gas turbine engine lubricants conforming to MIL‐PRF‐23699G at maximum Hertzian contact stresses of 3.1 GPa and 3.55 GPa. Bearing materials evaluated included AISI M50, M50NiL, nitrided M50NiL (N) and three variants of Pyrowear 675 with silicon nitride rolling elements. Tribo‐films were analysed using Energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy and Auger Electron spectroscopy. Results indicate that phosphorus‐rich anti‐wear tribo‐films form on all of the bearing materials studied. The applied thrust load and heat treatment had a significant effect on tribo‐film thickness. The study also suggests that current gas turbine engine lubricants formulated with TCP should form beneficial tribo‐films that enhance bearing fatigue life and performance.
Study of weak solutions to a nonlinear fourth‐order parabolic equation with boundary degeneracy
Authors: Liang Bo , Wang Ying , Qu Chengyuan
Published: February 2022

A double degenerate fourth‐order parabolic equation with a nonlinear second‐order diffusion from thin film theory is introduced, and the existence of weak solutions for the boundary degeneracy problem is studied. For this purpose, a non‐degenerate fourth‐order elliptic problem is constructed, and the corresponding existence and uniqueness are given by the variational method. From it, two kinds of approximate solutions are defined and then the existence and uniqueness of weak solutions for the related non‐degenerate parabolic problem are shown by the iterative estimate, energy method, and compactness argument. Finally, the parabolic problem with boundary degeneracy is solved by applying energy estimate and several limit procedures.
An m‐Health telerehabilitation and health education program on physical performance in patients with hip fracture and their family caregivers: Study protocol for the ActiveHip+ randomized controlled trial
Authors: Mora‐Traverso Marta , Molina‐Garcia Pablo , Prieto‐Moreno Rafael , Borges‐Cosic Milkana , Cruz Guisado Victor , del Pino Algarrada Rogelio , Moreno‐Ramírez Paz , Gomez‐Jurado Gema , Gomez Tarrias Consuelo , Hidalgo Isla Margarita , Jimenez Andrés Patricia , Linares Gago Marta , Lirola‐Liebanas Ana , Mesa‐Ruiz Antonio , Muñoz‐Garach Araceli , Salazar‐Graván Susana , Estevez‐Lopez Fernando , Martín‐Matillas Miguel , Ariza‐Vega Patrocinio
Published: February 2022

Telerehabilitation interventions administered via a smartphone may provide new feasible and effective rehabilitation options at home for patients with hip fracture. However, to date, no such interventions have been shown to be effective in the recovery key health outcomes of these patients. The present multicentre randomized controlled trial (RCT) aims to test the effect of the ActiveHip+ m‐Health system in the recovery of physical performance, functional level, quality of life, and other health‐related outcomes in both patients with hip fracture and their family caregivers. A total of 104 patients older than 65 years, with hip fracture, and their family caregivers will be randomized into the ActiveHip+ rehabilitation (N = 52) or the control group (N = 52). ActiveHip+ is a 12‐week smartphone‐based rehabilitation program conducted in Granada and Cádiz (Spain) that includes: (1) 24 sessions of physical exercise and 12 sessions of occupational therapy; (2) seven educational modules for patients and for caregivers; and (3) general recommendations in activities of daily living. The control group will receive the usual rehabilitation protocol offered by the Andalusian Public Healthcare System. The primary outcome is the patient's physical performance, while the secondary outcomes are the patient's functional level, quality of life, pain, fear of falling, fitness perception, pre‐fracture functional level, emotional status, and caregiver burden. The present project will substantially contribute to the existing knowledge by testing for the first time the efficacy and feasibility of a multidisciplinary m‐Health system in the rehabilitation of patients with hip fracture.
A pilot randomized trial of simplified versus standard calorie dietary self‐monitoring in a mobile weight loss intervention
Authors: Nezami Brooke T. , Hurley Lex , Power Julianne , Valle Carmina G. , Tate Deborah F.
Published: February 2022

Objective

This study tested the efficacy of a lower‐burden, simplified dietary self‐monitoring approach compared with a standard calorie monitoring approach for self‐monitoring adherence and weight loss in a mobile‐delivered behavioral weight loss intervention.

Methods

Participants (n = 72) with overweight or obesity who had children 2 to 12 years of age living in the home were randomly assigned to a group that used simplified dietary self‐monitoring of high‐calorie foods (Simplified) or a group that tracked calories (Standard). Both groups received a wireless scale, Fitbit trackers, and a 6‐month intervention delivered via a smartphone application with lessons, text messages, and weekly personalized feedback messages.

Results

Percentage weight loss at 6 months was 5.7% (95% CI: −8.3% to −3.2%) in the Standard group and 4.0% (95% CI: −5.7% to −2.3%) in the Simplified group, which was not significantly different. Similar proportions reached 5% weight loss at 6 months (43.2% in Standard and 42.9% in Simplified). There were no differences in number of dietary tracking days or change in average daily caloric intake between groups.

Conclusions

Two mobile‐delivered weight loss interventions produced clinically meaningful levels of weight loss at 6 months, with no differences in dietary tracking adherence or dietary intake. The results suggest that simplified monitoring of high‐calorie foods could be a promising alternative to calorie monitoring.
High conductivity thermoelectric insulation composite silicone rubber prepared by carbon nanotubes and silicon carbide composite filler
Authors: Cao Xianwu , Li Chunnong , Tong Yizhang , He Guangjian , Gao Dali , Ru Yue , Yang Zhitao
Published: February 2022

Polymer based materials with high conductivity and electric insulation are widely used in new electronic fields as thermal interface material (TIM). In this work, firstly we prepared the mixed fillers of silicon carbide (SiC) and carbon nanotubes (CNT), and then used them to modify silicone rubber (SR) preparing composite SR. The experimental results of TGA showed that the composite silicone rubber had strong thermal stability, and the mass loss was only 5% until about 370°C. Besides, the thermal conductivity was significantly enhanced, which increased from 0.2 (pure SR) to 1.103 W·m−1·k−1 (composite SR containing 3wt%CNT and 20wt%SiC), the enhancement ratio arriving as high as 483.05%. In addition, the composite silicone rubber maintained (water contact angle above 90 °) hydrophobicity and electrical insulation (volume resistivity of composite SR with 3wt%CNT and 20wt%SiC up to 1013 Ω·cm), which effectively prevent leakage risk and reduce voltage loss. Therefore, a small number of mixed fillers of SiC and CNT can effectively improve the combination properties of silicone rubber and provide more ideas for TIM.
Research on stick–slip behavior and tribological properties of ethylene–propylene diene monomer under various wear velocity conditions
Authors: Sun Qi , Wang Shijie , Lv Xiaoren
Published: February 2022

The stick–slip behavior and wear mechanism of ethylene–propylene diene monomer (EPDM) under various wear velocity conditions are investigated using a friction and wear testing machine. A change of wear velocity does not lead to the decomposition of the compounds and the formation of new compounds in EPDM. However, the friction coefficient tends to decrease with increasing wear velocity, but the noise intensity generated during the wear process tends to become stronger. In addition, the lag time tends to decrease as the wear velocity increases, but the rate of decrease in the lag time gradually slows down. Both adhesive wear and abrasive wear occur in the wear process of EPDM under different wear velocity conditions. Moreover, increasing the wear velocity leads to Schallamach waves on the EPDM wear morphology becoming larger. The results reveal the stick–slip behavior and tribological properties of EPDM under various wear velocity conditions. © 2022 Society of Industrial Chemistry.
The screen for cognitive impairment in psychiatry in patients with borderline personality disorder
Authors: Folesani Federica , Belvederi Murri Martino , Biancosino Bruno , Costa Silvia , Zerbinati Luigi , Caruso Rosangela , Nanni Maria Giulia , Toffanin Tommaso , Ferrara Maria , Purdon Scot E. , Grassi Luigi
Published: February 2022

Cognitive deficits are common in borderline personality disorder (BPD) and appear to be associated with psychopathology, functioning and outcome. The availability of a cognitive screening instrument could be of use in clinical settings in order to assess neurocognition in BPD patients. The Screen for Cognitive Impairment for Psychiatry (SCIP) proved to be reliable in different psychiatric populations, but it has not yet been validated in personality disorders. The purpose of this study is therefore to evaluate its psychometric properties in a sample of 58 BPD patients. The SCIP was validated against the Repeatable Battery for the Assessment of Neuropsychological Status (RBANS) and the Trail Making Test A and B (TMT A and B). The receiver operator curve analysis displayed an acceptable convergent validity (total score AUC: 0.78, 95% CI: 0.70–0.86; Se: 75%, Sp: 72%). A cut‐off total score of 80 identified 81% of patients as cognitively impaired. The exploratory factor analysis displayed a one‐factor solution explaining 55.8% of the total variance. The SCIP displayed adequate psychometric properties in BPD and could be integrated in the routine clinical assessment to provide a preliminary evaluation of cognitive features for BPD.
Measurement of physical activity and prevention of physical inactivity/sedentary behaviors in patients with septic knee arthritis before and after hospital discharge: A case report
Authors: Kaizu Yoichi , Tajika Kentaro , Miyata Kazuhiro
Published: February 2022

Background

Patients with septic knee arthritis tend to have prolonged pain, which may lead to a decrease in physical activity (PA). Pain catastrophizing, which is associated with chronic pain, is known to be a limiting factor for PA. An objective measurement of PA in patients with septic knee arthritis has not been reported. Here we describe the accelerometry‐based measurement of the PA of a patient with septic knee arthritis before and after discharge, and we report the ability of follow‐up outpatient physical therapy to increase PA.

Methods

A 70‐year‐old Japanese woman admitted to the hospital with a diagnosis of left septic knee arthritis presented with prolonged pain and pain catastrophizing in the left knee. We investigated her pre‐ and post‐discharge PA by using an accelerometer. We also investigated her physical function, pain, and pain catastrophizing as a possible influence on PA. Follow‐up outpatient physical therapy (consisting of PA feedback, counseling, and reassurance) was performed to improve the patient's physical function and increase her PA.

Results

The patient's PA indicated general inactivity from pre‐discharge to 1 month post‐discharge, especially immediately post‐discharge (sedentary behavior [SB]: 540–571.3 min/daytime, light‐intensity PA: 145.8–177.8 min/daytime). The follow‐up outpatient physical therapy was effective in increasing her physical function and PA (a 31‐min decrease in SB, a 32‐min increase in light‐intensity PA) but was not effective in reducing her pain or pain catastrophizing.

Discussion

Contrary to the general trend, this patient showed a decrease in PA after hospital discharge compared to PA during hospitalization. Follow‐up outpatient physical therapy had the effect of increasing the patient's PA, which was decreased immediately post‐discharge.
Thermodynamic Analysis of Stoichiometric Composition Changes in the TixOy Films at RF Magnetron Sputtering and Modeling of Their Conductivity
Authors: Bulyarskiy Sergey V. , Koiva Daria A. , Rudakov Grigory A. , Gusarov Georgy G.
Published: February 2022

Herein, the results of experiments on the synthesis of nonstoichiometric titanium oxide films by magnetron sputtering at various partial oxygen pressures and discharge powers are presented. The thermodynamic analysis of the synthesis results is performed by minimizing the Gibbs free energy of the equilibrium thermodynamic system, which takes place in the chamber. The dependences of the concentration of the main components in the deposition chamber on the partial pressure of oxygen and the discharge power, including the concentration of synthesized titanium monoxide and dioxide, are obtained. The analysis of these dependences allows determining the conditions for the critical values of the partial pressures of oxygen at which the oxides are synthesized. The exponential dependence of the conductivity on oxygen pressure is found experimentally and explained on the basis of hopping conductivity over the states of defects on the surface of nanocrystals that form the synthesized films.
Shared decision making of burdensome surveillance tests using personalized schedules and their burden and benefit
Authors: Tomer Anirudh , Nieboer Daan , Roobol Monique J. , Steyerberg Ewout W. , Rizopoulos Dimitris
Published: February 2022

Benchmark surveillance tests for detecting disease progression (eg, biopsies, endoscopies) in early‐stage chronic noncommunicable diseases (eg, cancer, lung diseases) are usually burdensome. For detecting progression timely, patients undergo invasive tests planned in a fixed one‐size‐fits‐all manner (eg, annually). We aim to present personalized test schedules based on the risk of disease progression, that optimize the burden (the number of tests) and the benefit (shorter time delay in detecting progression is better) better than fixed schedules, and enable shared decision making. Our motivation comes from the problem of scheduling biopsies in prostate cancer surveillance. Using joint models for time‐to‐event and longitudinal data, we consolidate patients' longitudinal data (eg, biomarkers) and results of previous tests, into individualized future cumulative‐risk of progression. We then create personalized schedules by planning tests on future visits where the predicted cumulative‐risk is above a threshold
(eg, 5% risk). We update personalized schedules with data gathered over follow‐up. To find the optimal risk threshold, we minimize a utility function of the expected number of tests (burden) and expected time delay in detecting progression (shorter is beneficial) for different thresholds. We estimate these two in a patient‐specific manner for following any schedule, by utilizing a patient's predicted risk profile. Patients/doctors can employ these quantities to compare personalized and fixed schedules objectively and make a shared decision of a test schedule.
Ultra‐Stable CsPbX3@Pyrophosphate Nanoparticles in Water over One Year
Authors: Zhong Qixuan , Wang Xuchun , Chu Mingyu , Qiu Yinghua , Yang Di , Sham Tsun‐Kong , Chen Jinxing , Wang Lu , Cao Muhan , Zhang Qiao
Published: February 2022

All‐inorganic lead halide perovskite (CsPbX3, X = Cl, Br, I, or their mixture) nanocrystals (NCs) have achieved inspiring advancements in optoelectronic fields but still suffer from poor durability when exposed to environmental stimuli such as water, irradiation and heat. Herein, a strategy of employing pyrophosphate as the inert shell for CsPbX3 NCs is reported. The strong binding between pyrophosphate and CsPbBr3 surface can stabilize the perovskite structure well. The as‐obtained core@shell CsPbBr3@NH4AlP2O7 NCs exhibit impressive stability against water and maintain the initial optical properties with negligible change in 400 days. Furthermore, significant improvement of irradiation/thermal resistance is realized due to the protecting role of pyrophosphate. The NCs can retain 100% and ≈90% of the original PL after hundreds of heating/cooling cycles and several hundred hours of UV light irradiation, respectively. As a result, the core@shell products can be directly used for high‐resolution inkjet printing, enabling the printed fluorescent information to be resistant under harsh environmental conditions. This work provides a promising way for the synthesis of highly stable encapsulated perovskite NCs and demonstrates a great potential in practical applications.
Design of library smart cloud service system based on blockchain technology
Authors: Zhen Yeping
Published: February 2022

Blockchain is equivalent to a transparent billing, and it eventually becomes a perfect storage or storage technology through many ways. Smart cloud uses internet cloud computing and other computing methods to create a scientific and humanized intelligent service system based on office. This article aims to use blockchain technology to design and study a smart cloud service system suitable for optimizing services and managing libraries. This article proposes that a special algorithm using blockchain technology can effectively improve the performance of all aspects of the smart cloud service system and improve the rating scores of users on the service system. In the experiment, the calculation of different iteration times in different algorithms of the blockchain obtains the experimental comparison chart, and it is obtained that the FUJK3 algorithm is better than the other two algorithms. The algorithm can increase the overall performance of the smart cloud service system by about 10 points, and the user's rating score for the service system by about 15 points.
Continuous mandibular nerve block as sole analgesia for postoperative pain management after a hemimandibulectomy in a French Bulldog
Authors: Aguilar‐Catalan Adrià , Fresno Bermejo Laura , Murison Pamela J.
Published: February 2022

A 12‐year‐old French Bulldog presented for a mandibulectomy due to a large ameloblastoma in the left rostral mandibular body. Preoperative pain management consisted of methadone 0.2 mg/kg and a mandibular nerve block with ropivacaine 0.5%. Intraoperatively, an indwelling perineural catheter was placed through the mandibular canal, with the tip placed in the mandibular foramen for postoperative ropivacaine administration. Ropivacaine 0.2% was administered every 6 hours for the first 36 hours without need of any systemic analgesic administration, providing adequate analgesia and allowing for a rapid recovery. The dog was completely alert and responsive in the immediate postoperative period and started eating 12 hours after surgery without any sign of pain or discomfort. No complications were observed during the postoperative period. The perineural catheter was removed after 40 hours and the dog was administered metamizole every 8 hours for analgesia and was discharged 48 hours after surgery.
Internal reconstruction of an extended full‐thickness duodenal mesenteric laceration through an antimesenteric duodenotomy in a dog
Authors: Pagès Geoffrey , Grand Jean‐Guillaume
Published: February 2022

A 4‐year‐old English setter was presented for acute vomiting secondary to suspected consumption of a foreign body. Unusually extensive full‐thickness lacerations along the mesenteric border of the descending duodenum were present in association with devitalisation of portions of the ascending duodenum. To preserve the duodenum, total duodenectomy with associated biliary tract diversion was not considered. Ascending duodenectomy was performed. The descending duodenal mesenteric lacerations were managed using an internal primary closure technique through an antimesenteric duodenotomy. This particular technique is described, and its potential complications are discussed in this case report. While the outcome of this case report was excellent, more studies are needed before recommending this technique as part of the instrumentarium of duodenal repair.
Enhancing Hydrogen Storage Capacity of Pd Nanoparticles by Sandwiching between Inorganic Nanosheets
Authors: Ament Kevin , Kobayashi Hirokazu , Kusada Kohei , Breu Josef , Kitagawa Hiroshi
Published: February 2022

H2 is regarded to play a crucial role in the transition from a fossil fuel‐based energy economy towards an environmentally friendly one. However, storage of H2 is still challenging, but palladium (Pd) based materials show exciting properties. Therefore, nanoparticulate Pd has been intensely studied for hydrogen storage in the past years. Here, we stabilize Pd nanoparticles by intercalation between inorganic nanosheets of hectorite (NaHec). Compared to nanoparticles stabilized by the polymer polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), the H2 storage capacity was found to be 86 % higher for identical Pd nanoparticles being intercalated between nanosheets. We attribute this remarkably enhanced H2 storage capacity to the partial oxidation of Pd, as evidenced by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The higher amount of holes in the 4d band leads to a higher amount of H2 that can be absorbed when Pd is stabilized between the nanosheets of hectorite compared to the PVP stabilized nanoparticles.
Machine Learning in Stroke Medicine: Opportunities and Challenges for Risk Prediction and Prevention
Authors: Amann Julia
Published: February 2022

Stroke is one of the leading causes of mortality and disability worldwide, causing individual hardship and high economic cost for society. Reducing the global burden of stroke depends on a multi-pronged mission, and experts agree an important strategy in this mission is prevention. Prevention success can be bolstered through the strategic development and adoption of risk prediction tools. However, there are several limitations to risk prediction models currently available. A solution to some of these limitations may be found in machine learning (ML), a promising tool that can improve our ability to assess risk and ultimately prevent strokes.

This chapter surveys the global burden of stroke and describes current practices for reducing stroke incidence and stroke mortality rates. In particular, the chapter reviews how ML applications are applied to stroke risk prediction and prevention and identifies important technological and methodological challenges for using ML in these contexts. The chapter concludes by drawing the readers’ attention to some of the questions and ethical challenges that arise as clinicians widely adopt ML-based applications in practice.
Negativity spectra in random tensor networks and holography
Authors: Kudler-Flam Jonah , Narovlansky Vladimir , Ryu Shinsei
Published: February 2022

Abstract

Negativity is a measure of entanglement that can be used both in pure and mixed states. The negativity spectrum is the spectrum of eigenvalues of the partially transposed density matrix, and characterizes the degree and “phase” of entanglement. For pure states, it is simply determined by the entanglement spectrum. We use a diagrammatic method complemented by a modification of the Ford-Fulkerson algorithm to find the negativity spectrum in general random tensor networks with large bond dimensions. In holography, these describe the entanglement of fixed-area states. It was found that many fixed-area states have a negativity spectrum given by a semi-circle. More generally, we find new negativity spectra that appear in random tensor networks, as well as in phase transitions in holographic states, wormholes, and holographic states with bulk matter. The smallest random tensor network is the same as a micro-canonical version of Jackiw-Teitelboim (JT) gravity decorated with end-of-the-world branes. We consider the semi-classical negativity of Hawking radiation and find that contributions from islands should be included. We verify this in the JT gravity model, showing the Euclidean wormhole origin of these contributions.
Treat-to-Target in Lupus Nephritis. What is the Role of the Repeat Kidney Biopsy?
Authors: Parodis Ioannis , Tamirou Farah , Houssiau Frédéric A.
Published: February 2022

Kidney involvement, termed lupus nephritis (LN), develops in 35–60% of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus, often early during the disease course. When not treated promptly and efficiently, LN may lead to rapid and severe loss of kidney function, being the reason why it is considered one of the most severe lupus manifestations. Despite improved pharmacotherapy, 5–20% of LN patients develop end-stage kidney disease within ten years from the LN diagnosis. While the principal ground of LN therapy is prevention of renal function worsening, resembling a race against nephron loss, consensual agreement upon outcome measures and clinically meaningful short- and long-term targets of LN therapy have yet to be determined. Literature points to the importance of inclusion of tissue-based approaches in the determination of those targets, and evidence accumulates regarding the importance of per-protocol repeat kidney biopsies in the evaluation of the initial phase of therapy and prediction of long-term renal prognosis. The latter leads to the hypothesis that the information gleaned from repeat biopsies may contribute to optimised therapeutic decision making, and, therefore, increased probability to attain complete renal response in the short term, and a more favourable renal prognosis within a longer prospect. The multinational project ReBioLup was recently designed to serve as a key contributor to form evidence about the role of per-protocol repeat biopsies in a randomised fashion and aspires to unify the global LN community towards improved kidney and patient survival.
Weighted Transplantation for Laguerre Coefficients
Authors: Arenas Alberto , Ciaurri Óscar , Labarga Edgar
Published: February 2022

We present a transplantation theorem for Laguerre coefficients in weighted spaces by means of a discrete local Calderón–Zygmund theory.
Bacterial ligands as flexible and sensitive detectors in rapid tests for antibodies to SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Cavalera Simone , Di Nardo Fabio , Chiarello Matteo , Serra Thea , Colitti Barbara , Guiotto Cristina , Fagioli Franca , Cagnazzo Celeste , Denina Marco , Palazzo Annagloria , Artusio Fiora , Pisano Roberto , Rosati Sergio , Baggiani Claudio , Anfossi Laura
Published: February 2022

Lateral flow immunoassay (LFIA) is widely employed as point-of-care tests (POCT) for the diagnosis of infectious diseases. The accuracy of LFIA largely depends on the quality of the immunoreagents used. Typical LFIAs to reveal the immune response to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) employ anti-human immunoglobulin (hIG) antibodies and recombinant viral antigens, which usually are unstable and poorly soluble. Broad selective bacterial proteins, such as Staphylococcal protein A (SpA) and Streptococcal protein G (SpG) can be considered alternatives to anti-hIG to increase versatility and sensitivity of serological LFIAs because of their high binding capacity, interspecies reactivity, and robustness. We developed two colorimetric LFA devices including SpA and SpG linked to gold nanoparticles (GNP) as detectors and explored the use of a specific, stable, and soluble immunodominant fraction of the nucleocapsid protein from SARS-CoV-2 as the capturing agent. The optimal amount of SpA-GNP and SpG-GNP conjugates and the protein-to-GNP ratios were defined through a full factorial experimental design to maximize the diagnostic sensitivity of the LFIAs. The new LFA devices were applied to analyze 105 human serum samples (69 positive and 36 negatives according to reference molecular diagnostic methods). The results showed higher sensitivity (89.9%, 95% CI 82.7–97.0) and selectivity (91.7%, 82.6–100) for the SpA-based compared to the SpG-based LFA. In addition, 18 serum samples from cats and dogs living with COVID-19 patients were analyzed and 14 showed detectable levels of anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies, thus illustrating the flexibility of the SpA- and SpG-based LFAs.

Graphical abstract
Classically conditioned modulation of pain depends on stimulus intensity
Authors: Harvie Daniel S. , Poolman Eva Y. , Madden Victoria J. , Olthof Nick A. , Coppieters Michel W.
Published: February 2022

Innocuous cues that become associated with pain can enhance pain. This is termed classically conditioned hyperalgesia. The size of this effect varies under different conditions. We aimed to test whether the sensitising effect of pain-associated cues depends on the intensity of the paired test stimulus. To do this, two virtual reality environments were paired with either painful or non-painful vibrotactile stimuli in a counterbalanced fashion. The differential effect of the two environments was evaluated using pain intensity ratings of paired electrocutaneous test stimuli at three different intensity levels. Forty healthy participants were included in the study; 30 participants experienced sufficient pain during the learning phase and were included in the main analysis. An effect of environment (p = 0.014) and interaction between environment and test stimulus intensity was found (p = 0.046). Only the most intense test stimulus was modulated by environment. While the effect was small, the results are consistent with the proposition that pain-associated cues may induce hyperalgesia to some degree, under certain conditions. In particular, results highlight the potential relevance of stimulus intensity during and after the initial painful experience. Further attention is needed to comprehensively understand the variables that impact classically conditioned hyperalgesia.
Trends in the Management of Abdominal Gunshot Wounds Over the Last Decade: A South African Experience
Authors: Lee Hong , Kong Victor , Cheung Cynthia , Thirayan Varun , Rajaretnam Nigel , Elsabagh Abdallah , Bruce John , Laing Grant , Manchev Vasil , Clarke Damian
Published: February 2022

Background

This study aimed to review our decade‐long experience with the management of abdominal gunshot wounds (GSWs), to document trends in our approach and to develop an evidence base for our contemporary management algorithms in a major trauma in South Africa.

Materials and methods

This was a retrospective study that included all adult patients with abdominal GSWs between January 2013 and October 2020 managed at a major trauma centre in South Africa.

Result

Five hundred and ninety‐six cases were included (87% male, mean age: 32 years). The median Injury Severity Score (ISS) was 12. 52% (309/596) of cases had indications of immediate laparotomy and proceeded directly to the operating room without any CT imaging. Of this cohort, the laparotomy was positive in 292 and in the remainder (5%) was negative. Of the remaining 287 cases, 209 underwent a CT scan (35%). 78 were managed without any CT imaging. Of the 78 who did not undergo CT scan, all were managed without any operation and discharged home well. Of the 209 who underwent CT scan, 99 were observed and only one case in this group subsequently required a laparotomy. The remaining 110 cases underwent a laparotomy, which was negative in 7. There were correlations with increasing use of CT, as well as a decrease in those proceeding directly to laparotomy. The overall morbidity rate was 8% (47/596). 32% (190/596) require intensive care unit (ICU) admission. The overall mortality rate was 8% (67/596).

Conclusions

The management of abdominal GSWs has continued to evolve. There is now a well‐defined role for selective non‐operative management in this group of patients and relies on accurate CT assessment. CT scan is now an important component in the management of abdominal GSW even in our resource‐constrained environment.