bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Zn‐MOF‐74 as pH‐Responsive Drug‐Delivery System of Arsenic Trioxide
Authors: Schnabel Jennifer , Ettlinger Romy , Bunzen Hana
Published: May 2020

Although arsenic and its compounds are mainly known as a poison, they also found applications as drugs in medicine. However, their distribution in a therapeutic dose is often problematic due to their high toxicity. One possibility how to address this issue is utilizing drug‐delivery systems. Herein, we report on a metal‐organic framework (MOF) called Zn‐MOF‐74, which comprises Zn(II) ions and 2,5‐dihydroxybenzene‐1,4‐dicarboxylate ligands, as a drug nanocarrier of arsenic trioxide. We synthetized the material in a nanoparticle formulation and showed that due to the open metal sites in Zn‐MOF‐74, it was possible to load the material with a high amount of the As(III)‐drug (in a form of arsenous acid). Moreover, we also investigated the drug release at different pH values. Noticeably, we observed that the As(III)‐release was pH‐triggered and was faster at pH 6.0 than at pH 7.4. Therefore, we suggest Zn‐MOF‐74 as a model example of a MOF containing open metal sites for controlled drug loading and delivery.
Serum alarmin S100A8/S100A9 levels and its potential role as biomarker in myocarditis
Authors: Müller Irene , Vogl Thomas , Kühl Uwe , Krannich Alexander , Banks Aron , Trippel Tobias , Noutsias Michel , Maisel Alan S. , van Linthout Sophie , Tschöpe Carsten
Published: May 2020

Aims

The alarmin S100A8/S100A9 (S100A8/A9) is released by activated monocytes/macrophages and neutrophils in the setting lymphocytic myocarditis (MC). We recently demonstrated its therapeutic potential in experimental acute MC. Now, we investigated the diagnostic relevance of S100A8/A9 serum levels in patients with suspected acute and chronic MC and in patients with heart failure without cardiac inflammation.

Methods and Results

Serum S100A8/A9 levels were analysed in patients with a recent onset of MC [≤ 30 days, n = 32; ejection fraction (EF): 45.4 ± 12.9%], dilated cardiomyopathy patients with inflammation (n = 112; EF: 29.0 ± 11.4%), or without inflammation (n = 58; EF: 26.6 ± 9.3%), and controls (n = 25; EF: 68.5 ± 4.6%), by using specific ELISAs. Blood samples were collected at Time Point 1 (T1), where also endomyocardial biopsies (EMBs) were withdrawn. Patients with a recent onset of MC showed a 4.6‐fold increase in serum S100A8/A9 levels vs. controls (MC: 1948 ± 1670 ng/mL vs. controls: 426 ± 307 ng/mL; P < 0.0001). Serum S100A8/A9 correlated with the disease activity, represented by EMB‐derived counts of inflammatory cells (CD3: r = 0.486, P = 0.0047, lymphocyte function‐associated antigen‐1: r = 0.558, P = 0.0009, macrophage‐1 antigen: r = 0.434, P = 0.013), the EMB mRNA levels of S100A8, S100A9 (r = 0.541, P = 0.002), and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF: r = 0.498, P = 0.0043). EMB immunofluorescence co‐stainings display macrophages/monocytes and neutrophils as the main source of S100A8 and S100A9 in recent onset MC. The diagnostic value of serum alarmin levels (cut‐off 583 ng/mL) was characterized by a specificity of 92%, a sensitivity of 90.6%, positive predictive value of 93.5%, negative predictive value of 88.5%, and an accuracy of 0.949 (95% confidence interval [0.89–1]). In a subgroup of MC patients, S100A8/A9 serum levels and EMBs at T1 (n = 12) and a follow‐up visit (T2, n = 12, mean follow‐up 8.5 months) were available. A fall of serum S100A8/A9 (T1: 2208 ± 1843 ng/mL vs. T2: 888.8 ± 513.7 ng/mL; P = 0.00052) was associated with a reduced cardiac inflammation (CD3 T1: 70.02 ± 107.4 cells per square millimetre vs. T2: 59.18 ± 182.5 cells per square millimetre; P = 0.0342, lymphocyte function‐associated antigen‐1 T1: 133.5 ± 187.1 cells per square millimetre vs. T2: 74.12 ± 190.5 cells per square millimetre; P = 0.0186, and macrophage‐1 antigen T1: 132.6 ± 129.5 cells per square millimetre vs. T2: 54.41 ± 65.16 cells per square millimetre; P = 0.0015). Serum S100A8/A9 levels were only slightly increased in patients within the chronic phase of MC and in heart failure patients without inflammation vs. controls.

Conclusions

Serum S100A8/A9 might serve as an additional tool in the diagnostic workup of suspected acute MC patients.
Efficacy of Microencapsulated Carvacrol in Oxidative Stability of Sunflower Oil
Authors: Bagis Ulkuhan , Karabulut Ihsan
Published: May 2020

The objective of this study is to improve the oxidative stability of sunflower oil using encapsulated carvacrol during 25 times repeated frying experiments. Microencapsulated carvacrol powders are produced by spray drying using binary and ternary blends of gum arabic (GA), maltodextrin (MD), and corn starch as encapsulating agents. In most cases, the encapsulation efficiency decreases as the amount of GA decreases in the wall mixture. Microencapsulated carvacrol powders prepared with GA (100%), GA + MD (75:25), and GA + MD + starch (67.5: 22.5: 10), which are found to have higher encapsulation efficiency values, are used as antioxidants in dough frying experiments. Frying experiments are performed with the addition of encapsulated and/or unencapsulated forms of carvacrol into the sunflower oil or dough. Encapsulated carvacrol is found to be more effective than unencapsulated carvacrol and butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) in repeated frying experiments. The addition of carvacrol into oil provides better protection compared to addition into dough. Protective effects of encapsulated and unencapsulated forms of carvacrol in frying trials are successfully discriminated by applying principal component analysis.

Practical Application: Carvacrol and thymol are the major constituents of thyme (Thymus vulgaris L.) essential oil. These compounds are responsible for the main bioactive properties of thyme oil. Therefore, in this study, pure commercial carvacrol was encapsulated and tested for its protective effect in sunflower oil during repeated dough frying. The effectiveness of the carvacrol in encapsulated form may be a consequence of the prevention of volatilization. The results of this study are remarkable for food applications requiring high temperatures.
Nonaqueous capillary gel electrophoretic analysis of metal nanoclusters in polymeric–DMSO–Li+ systems
Authors: Kitagawa Fumihiko , Ohashi Mika , Naraoka Reo , Kondo Haruna , Kudo Naotsugu , Okazaki Masaaki , Nukatsuka Isoshi
Published: May 2020

In this study, we investigated a combination of nonaqueous CE with capillary gel electrophoresis to achieve highly efficient analysis of metal nanoclusters. In the nonaqueous capillary gel electrophoresis (NACGE), PVA and hydroxypropyl methylcellulose were dissolved in DMSO. In addition, to enhance the entanglement of the polymer chains, Li+ ions were also added. By employing the PVA‒DMSO‒Li+ solution, we studied the effects of the molecular weight, the degree of hydrolysis, and the concentration of the polymers and Li+ on the separation. As a result, good separations of standard mononuclear metal complexes and tetrairon nanoclusters were achieved by NACGE.
Translating ENIGMA schizophrenia findings using the regional vulnerability index: Association with cognition, symptoms, and disease trajectory
Authors: Kochunov Peter , Fan Fengmei , Ryan Meghann C. , Hatch Kathryn S. , Tan Shuping , Jahanshad Neda , Thompson Paul M. , van Erp Theo G. M. , Turner Jessica A. , Chen Shuo , Du Xiaoming , Adhikari Bhim , Bruce Heather , Hare Stephanie , Goldwaser Eric , Kvarta Mark , Huang Junchao , Tong Jinghui , Cui Yimin , Cao Baopeng , Tan Yunlong , Hong L. Elliot
Published: May 2020

Patients with schizophrenia have patterns of brain deficits including reduced cortical thickness, subcortical gray matter volumes, and cerebral white matter integrity. We proposed the regional vulnerability index (RVI) to translate the results of Enhancing Neuro Imaging Genetics Meta‐Analysis studies to the individual level. We calculated RVIs for cortical, subcortical, and white matter measurements and a multimodality RVI. We evaluated RVI as a measure sensitive to schizophrenia‐specific neuroanatomical deficits and symptoms and studied the timeline of deficit formations in: early (≤5 years since diagnosis, N = 45, age = 28.8 ± 8.5); intermediate (6–20 years, N = 30, age 43.3 ± 8.6); and chronic (21+ years, N = 44, age = 52.5 ± 5.2) patients and healthy controls (N = 76, age = 38.6 ± 12.4). All RVIs were significantly elevated in patients compared to controls, with the multimodal RVI showing the largest effect size, followed by cortical, white matter and subcortical RVIs (d = 1.57, 1.23, 1.09, and 0.61, all p < 10−6). Multimodal RVI was significantly correlated with multiple cognitive variables including measures of visual learning, working memory and the total score of the MATRICS consensus cognitive battery, and with negative symptoms. The multimodality and white matter RVIs were significantly elevated in the intermediate and chronic versus early diagnosis group, consistent with ongoing progression. Cortical RVI was stable in the three disease‐duration groups, suggesting neurodevelopmental origins of cortical deficits. In summary, neuroanatomical deficits in schizophrenia affect the entire brain; the heterochronicity of their appearance indicates both the neurodevelopmental and progressive nature of this illness. These deficit patterns may be useful for early diagnosis and as quantitative targets for more effective treatment strategies aiming to alter these neuroanatomical deficit patterns.
Provision of intensive care to severely ill pregnant women is associated with reduced mortality: Results from the WHO Multicountry Survey on Maternal and Newborn Health
Authors: Soares Fabiano M. , Pacagnella Rodolfo C. , Tunçalp Özge , Cecatti José G. , Vogel Joshua P. , Togoobaatar Ganchimeg , Souza Joao P.
Published: May 2020

Objective

To estimate the impact of the use of Intensive Care Units (ICU) in maternal mortality.

Methods

A secondary analysis of the WHO Multicountry Survey on Maternal and Newborn Health, a multicenter cross‐sectional study conducted in maternity hospitals in 29 countries. Women who had severe maternal outcome (maternal death or maternal near‐miss) and the availability and use of ICU beds were included. The women were categorized according to availability of ICU, and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to determine the risk of maternal death. To rate the severity of complications, the Maternal Severity Score (MSS) and the Maternal Severity Index (MSI) were used.

Results

Of 314 623 women observed, 24 396 had severe complications. Of those, 16 981 (69.6%) were in facilities with ICUs; 1573 women were admitted to ICUs (6.4% of women with maternal complications and 0.5% of total). There is a significant protective effect for maternal mortality for patients with more severe conditions using ICUs (odds ratio 0.16, 95% confidence interval 0.07–0.33).

Conclusion

The use of ICU was associated with significantly reduced odds of maternal death in obstetric patients with severe clinical conditions. The availability and appropriate use of good‐quality ICUs are therefore crucial to reduce maternal mortality.
COVID‐19: Consider IL‐6 receptor antagonist for the therapy of cytokine storm syndrome in SARS‐CoV‐2 infected patients
Authors: Chakraborty Chiranjib , Sharma Ashish Ranjan , Bhattacharya Manojit , Sharma Garima , Lee Sang‐Soo , Agoramoorthy Govindasamy
Published: May 2020

COVID‐19 leads to mortality of several patients and the cytokine storm is reportedly critical in the patients. To reduce the cytokine storm, we would like to propose the interleukin (IL) 6 receptor (IL‐6R) antagonist therapy for the COVID‐19 patients. Two humanized monoclonal antibodies are in clinical trial following IL‐6R antagonist therapies namely tocilizumab and sarilumab. However, researchers and physicians should look for more IL‐6R antagonists for the therapy of cytokine storm syndrome severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infected persons to enhance the therapeutic options for cytokine storm.
The diagnosis of SARS‐CoV2 pneumonia: A review of laboratory and radiological testing results
Authors: Zheng Zhong , Yao Zhixian , Wu Ke , Zheng Junhua
Published: May 2020

The rapid emergence of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) has necessitated the implementation of diverse pandemic control strategies throughout the world. To effectively control the spread of this disease, it is essential that it be diagnosed at an early stage so that patients can be reliably quarantined such that disease spread will be slowed. At present, the diagnosis of this infectious form of coronavirus pneumonia is largely dependent upon a combination of laboratory testing and imaging analyses of variable diagnostic efficacy. In the present report, we reviewed prior literature pertaining to the diagnosis of different forms of pneumonia caused by coronaviruses (severe acute respiratory syndrome [SARS], Middle East respiratory syndrome, and SARS‐CoV‐2) and assessed two different potential diagnostic approaches. We ultimately found that computed tomography was associated with a higher rate of diagnostic accuracy than was a real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction‐based approach (P = .0041), and chest radiography (P = .0100). Even so, it is important that clinicians utilize a combination of laboratory and radiological testing where possible to ensure that this virus is reliably and quickly detected such that it may be treated and patients may be isolated in a timely fashion, thereby effectively curbing the further progression of this pandemic.
Research on lubrication characteristics of asymmetric helical gear based on CFD method
Authors: Mo Shuai , Zou Zhenxing , Feng Zhiyou , Dang Heyu , Gao Hanjun , Cao Xiaolin
Published: May 2020

Aiming at the asymmetric helical gear injection lubrication, simulation models for coast flank and drive flank injections were established by computational fluid dynamics (CFD). Firstly, the two oil injection methods of the asymmetric helical gear were explained. Then, a mathematical calculation model suitable for gear injection lubrication analysis was established. Finally, the model is simulated by CFD software. The oil volume fraction and pressure at the meshing point during the gear meshing process of the two injection models are obtained. The effects of gear speeds and spray velocities on the oil volume fraction and pressure are analysed. By comparing the two oil injection methods, when the spray velocity is more than 2.7 times the pitch line velocity, better lubrication is obtained by the drive flank injection method. When the spray velocity is less than 2.7 times the pitch line velocity, the coast flank injection method can achieve better lubrication.
Effect of few layer graphene additive on the tribological properties of lithium grease
Authors: Li Zhanjun , He Qiang , Du Sanming , Zhang Yongzhen
Published: May 2020

The tribological properties of lithium grease with few layer graphene (FLG) additive were studied. Three‐dimensional surface topography, FESEM with EDS and XPS were used to analyse the morphology, distribution of elements and chemical states on the wear spots. The results show that 0.1 wt% FLG content produced maximum reduction rate of the friction coefficient and minimum wear spot diameter (WSD). And the best results obtained under larger load and lower speed. Fe3O4 was found to be the main component of the chemical reaction film formed on the friction surface when pure lithium grease lubrication was applied. However, when FLG‐containing lubricating grease was used instead, the boundary film was mainly composed of Fe2O3 and adsorbed FLG. The effectiveness of FLG in reducing the friction coefficient and WSD of lithium grease is mainly attributed to its large specific surface area, great number of active groups and typical layered structure.
Longterm Outcome of Liver Transplantation for Congenital Extrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt
Authors: Uchida Hajime , Sakamoto Seisuke , Kasahara Mureo , Kudo Hironori , Okajima Hideaki , Nio Masaki , Umeshita Koji , Ohdan Hideki , Egawa Hiroto , Uemoto Shinji ,   for the Japanese Liver Transplantation Society
Published: May 2020

Liver transplantation (LT) is often viewed as the last resort for the treatment of congenital extrahepatic portosystemic shunt (CEPS) due to advancement of imaging and interventional radiology techniques. However, some patients still require LT, and criteria for LT are yet to be determined. We conducted a national survey of patients undergoing LT for CEPS between June 1998 and August 2018 and evaluated the clinical data and outcomes with a review of previously reported patients from the English‐language medical literature. A total of 26 patients underwent LT in Japan at a median age of 5.2 years old. The most common indications for LT were persistent hyperammonemia (54%) and liver mass (50%), followed by pulmonary complications (38%). Pulmonary complications in all patients, including intrapulmonary shunt and pulmonary hypertension (PH), were improved after LT. Regarding the 29 previously reported patients in the English‐language literature, a liver nodule (49%), including hepatoblastoma and hepatocellular carcinoma, was the most common indication for LT, followed by pulmonary complications (34%). A total of 25 (96%) patients in our survey and 26 (90%) patients in the literature review were alive with a median follow‐up period of 9.5 and 1.6 years, respectively. Although LT has a limited role in management of CEPS, our study indicated that LT was safe as an alternative treatment for select patients with malignant tumor or pulmonary complications and those with complications related to new portosystemic collateral vessels after shunt closure, such as PH or hepatopulmonary syndrome.
Thermal and Reactive Oxygen Species Dual‐Responsive OEGylated Polysulfides with Oxidation‐Tunable Lower Critical Solution Temperatures
Authors: Chen Runhai , Xiang Zehong , Xia Yu , Ma Zhifang , Shi Qiang , Wong Shing‐Chung , Yin Jinghua
Published: May 2020

In this work, two monomethoxy oligo(ethylene glycol) (OEG)‐substituted episulfides are prepared and a series of polysulfides are synthesized with subsequent ring‐opening polymerization. The OEGylated polysulfides exhibit thermal and reactive oxygen species (ROS) dual‐responsive behavior. Their lower critical solution temperatures (LCSTs) are close to human body temperature and depend on the degree of polymerization and OEG length. Notably, the LCST of the polysulfide increases linearly with the oxidation degree by H2O2, showing a highly tunable change regulated by the ratio between hydrophobic sulfide and hydrophilic sulfoxide/sulfone in the backbone. Further, the OEGylated polysulfide can act as a ROS scavenger to protect red blood cells (RBCs) from oxidative damage in an RBCs aging model in vitro. This work paves a facile way to synthesize LCST‐tunable polysulfides, which hold great promise in biological applications.
Dietary intake of glucoraphanin during pregnancy and lactation prevents the behavioral abnormalities in the offspring after maternal immune activation
Authors: Fujita Yuko , Fujita Atsuhiro , Ishima Tamaki , Hirai Ayumi , Suzuki Shigenori , Suganuma Hiroyuki , Hashimoto Kenji
Published: May 2020

Aim

Epidemiological data suggest that maternal immune activation (MIA) plays a role in the etiology of neuropsychiatric disorders including autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and schizophrenia. However, there is no prophylactic nutrition that can prevent the onset of neurodevelopmental disorders in offspring after MIA. The aim of this study was undertaken to examine whether dietary intake of glucoraphanin (GF: the precursor of a natural anti‐inflammatory compound sulforaphane) can prevent the onset of behavioral abnormalities in offspring after MIA.

Methods

One percent of GF food pellet or normal food pellet was given into female mice during pregnancy and lactation (from E5 to P21). Saline (5 mL/kg/d) or poly(I:C) (5 mg/kg/d) was injected into pregnant mice from E12 to E17. Behavioral tests and immunohistochemistry of parvalbumin (PV) were performed in male offspring.

Results

Dietary intake of GF during pregnancy and lactation prevented cognitive deficits and social interaction deficits in the juvenile offspring after MIA. Furthermore, dietary intake of GF during pregnancy and lactation prevented cognitive deficits in the adult offspring after MIA. Moreover, dietary intake of GF prevented the reduction of PV immunoreactivity in the medial prefrontal cortex of adult offspring after MIA.

Conclusion

These data suggest that dietary intake of GF during pregnancy and lactation could prevent behavioral abnormalities in offspring after MIA.
Evaluation of air permeability characteristics on the hybridization of carbon black with graphene nanoplatelets in bromobutyl rubber/epoxidized natural rubber composites for inner‐liner applications
Authors: Thuruthil Raju Aswathy , Dash Biswaranjan , Dey Pranab , Nair Sujith , Naskar Kinsuk
Published: May 2020

Nanotechnology has been explored recently as a means of enhancing the properties of conventional elastomers for engineering applications. In the current study, the effect of nanofillers on air impermeability properties of Brominated isobutylene‐isoprene rubber (BIIR)/Epoxidized natural rubber (ENR) blend has analyzed for automotive applications. The ENR chosen is ENR 25 and ENR 50 (25 and 50% epoxidation) and prepared the blends in a ratio of 75:25 (BIIR:ENR), and from both blend based composites, a part of carbon black replaced with graphene nanoplatelets (GNP). The physical and thermal properties were compared for both binary blend nanocomposites to study the level of exfoliation and reinforcement behavior of GNP. Morphology studies were employed to reveal the level of interaction between GNP and carbon black in both blends. The influence of epoxidation in the formation of nanostructures in both blends have been evaluated, and the effect of nanostructures on air permeability properties was studied. The air impermeability of BIIR‐ENR 50 nanocomposites were improved with increasing platelet concentration, a 30% improvement in air permeability is obtained for BIIR‐ENR 50 composites over BIIR ‐ENR 25.
Pulmonary functions in children and adolescents with sickle cell disease
Authors: Al Biltagi Mohammed , Bediwy Adel Salah , Toema Osama , Al‐Asy Hassan M. , Saeed Nermin Kamal
Published: May 2020

Background

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is relatively common in Bahrain, and airway inflammation in patients with SCD is usually multifactorial. This study aimed to evaluate lung function and induced sputum levels of interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) in Bahraini children and adolescents with SCD and assess their relationship with the recurrence of acute chest syndrome (ACS).

Methods

A total of 139 children and adolescents with SCD and 123 healthy children (control group) were included in the present study. Patients were further stratified according to age and history of ACS. The patient and control groups underwent pulmonary function tests (PFTs), including spirometry and assessments of lung volume, diffusion of carbon monoxide (DLCO), and induced sputum IL‐6 levels.

Results

Forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1), force vital capacity (FVC), FEV1/FVC, total lung capacity, DLCO, and DLCOc (ie, hemoglobin‐corrected DLCO) were significantly lower, while residual volume and sputum IL‐6 levels were significantly higher in the patient group than in the control group. PFT parameters were more compromised in the patient subgroup with a history of ACS and older than 12 years compared with the subgroup without a history of ACS and the subgroup under 12 years of age. PFTs revealed significant negative correlations with age, number of ACS events, and sputum IL‐6 levels.

Conclusion

Pulmonary function was observed to worsen with disease progression, and it worsened with older age and repeated occurrence of ACS. Induced sputum IL‐6 levels reflected the degree of lung inflammation in affected patients and were associated with more impairment in various PFT parameters.
The importance of anti‐vaping vigilance—EVALI in seven adolescent pediatric patients in Northeast Ohio
Authors: Corcoran Aoife , Carl John C. , Rezaee Fariba
Published: May 2020

As of 18 February 2020, the e‐cigarette or vaping product use‐associated lung injury (EVALI) epidemic has claimed the lives of 68 patients in the USA with the total number of reported cases standing at 2807 to date. We present the clinical and radiologic findings, course of illness, and treatment of EVALI in seven adolescent patients in Northeast Ohio. Five of our patients required supplemental oxygen with four requiring intensive care unit care for respiratory support during admission. Three patients were treated with systemic steroids while inpatient. Bilateral opacities were seen on radiographic imaging of all seven of our patients. All patients were discharged alive on room air. However, impaired diffusing capacity of the lungs for carbon monoxide (DLCO) with nonobstructive spirometry was seen in patients that were tested postdischarge. This suggests that although recovery from the acute illness process of EVALI is achieved, there may be long‐term impact on lung function in these patients. We recommend close follow‐up with a pediatric pulmonologist where spirometry and DLCO can be performed.
Zn2Al‐CO3 Layered Double Hydroxide: Adsorption, Cytotoxicity and Antibacterial Performances
Authors: Dutta S. , Jana Tushar K. , Halder Suman K. , Maiti Ramaprasad , Dutta Ankita , Kumar A. , Chatterjee K.
Published: May 2020

Due to the accelerating growth of civilian and industrial regime, chemical and bioremediation of water body become a major concern for society. Here, we report a facile and scalable process to get Zinc‐aluminium layered double hydroxide (LDH) with carbonate interlayer anion and present it as promising multifunctional material for potential applications in adsorption, antibacterial, and cytotoxicity performances. In this study, the sample was prepared by co‐precipitation method and the well crystalline LDH was characterized by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM), X‐Ray Diffraction (XRD), X‐Ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) analysis. The study shows excellent adsorption capacity of Zn2Al‐CO3 LDH as high as 81.4 mg/g against the methyl orange (MO) dye taken as a model organic pollutant. Adsorption kinetics and adsorption isotherms have also been investigated in detail. Moreover, the prepared Zn2Al‐CO3 LDH sample shows commendable antimicrobial efficacy against both Gram‐negative and Gram‐positive bacteria. In addition to that, under cytotoxicity study, the sample exhibits a creditable inhibitory effect towards the cancerous cell HEPG2 cell. As a whole the results show the significant implication of the Zn2Al‐CO3 LDHas a multifunctional material towards environmental concern and also as an antimicrobial material.
Effects of Ion Energy and Density on the Plasma Etching‐Induced Surface Area, Edge Electrical Field, and Multivacancies in MoSe2 Nanosheets for Enhancement of the Hydrogen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Xiao Dezhi , Ruan Qingdong , Bao De‐Liang , Luo Yang , Huang Chao , Tang Siying , Shen Jie , Cheng Cheng , Chu Paul K.
Published: May 2020

Plasma functionalization can increase the efficiency of MoSe2 in the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) by providing multiple species but the interactions between the plasma and catalyst are not well understood. In this work, the effects of the ion energy and plasma density on the catalytic properties of MoSe2 nanosheets are studied. The through‐holes resulting from plasma etching and multi‐vacancies induced by plasma‐induced damage enhance the HER efficiency as exemplified by a small overpotential of 148 mV at 10 mA cm–2 and Tafel slope of 51.6 mV dec–1 after the plasma treatment using a power of 20 W. The interactions between the plasma and catalyst during etching and vacancies generation are evaluated by plasma simulation. Finite element and first‐principles density functional theory calculations are also conducted and the results are consistent with the experimental results, indicating that the improved HER catalytic activity stems from the enhanced electric field and more active sites on the catalyst, and reduced bandgap and adsorption energy arising from the etched through‐holes and vacancies, respectively. The results convey new fundamental knowledge about the plasma effects and means to enhance the efficiency of catalysts in water splitting as well insights into the design of high‐performance HER catalysts.
On the security and confidentiality of quantum key distribution
Authors: Al‐Ghamdi Al‐Batool , Al‐Sulami Ameenah , Aljahdali Asia Othman
Published: May 2020

Cryptography is a scientific method that is used to transmit secret information. In contrast, quantum cryptography depends on physical laws to encrypt information; when the quantum computer appeared, the classic encryption method becomes inefficient. The quantum method is commonly used to distribute keys, a process called as quantum key distribution (QKD). In this paper, we consider the efficiency of the quantum method compared to classical methods. Also, we discuss the security of QKD against several attacks and provide security analysis based on probabilistic models. Additionally, the paper explains how to encrypt random numbers into a sequence of photons using a QKD system for the distribution of a key. This research demonstrates the efficiency and security of QKD in sending and distributing keys between communication parties. Thus, both the sender and the receiver would be able to obtain a security key using the quantum method rather than classical methods.
Factors Influencing Trapping Success of Northern Bobwhites
Authors: Behney Adam C. , Wolske Joseph M. , Cucinotta Thomas M. , Tappe Carolin
Published: May 2020

Capturing animals is a critical component of many ecological research projects. Factors that increase capture success can save time, money, and improve inference. Even though northern bobwhites (Colinus virginianus) are intensively studied, little information exists on factors that influence trapping success. Using baited walk‐in funnel traps during 2019, we examined how putting cover over traps, scraping litter and vegetation under traps, distance to nearest cover, overhead cover, date, time, and weather influenced trapping success of northern bobwhites in northeastern Colorado, USA. We found that cover placed over traps, litter scraped away underneath traps, traps placed closer to cover, and windy days resulted in greater trapping success. These results should enable researchers to be more successful capturing bobwhites and result in larger samples and more precise inference in future studies. © 2020 The Wildlife Society.
Revisiting the nexus of the financial development and economic development: new international evidence using a wavelet approach
Authors: Karlsson Hyunjoo Kim , Månsson Kristofer , Hacker Scott
Published: May 2020

This study investigates Granger causality and instantaneous causality between financial development and economic development for 76 economies of four different income levels. The main novelty of the study is that it fills a gap in existing studies on the relationship between financial development and economic development by employing wavelet analysis, which enables us to study the varying timescale relationships of the variables. Among the findings is that at the scale of 4–8 years, it is more common for financial development and economic development to support each other once a country achieves at least lower-middle-income status.
The Decreasing Incidence of Acute Appendicitis During COVID‐19: A Retrospective Multi‐centre Study
Authors: Tankel James , Keinan Aner , Blich Ori , Koussa Michael , Helou Brigitte , Shay Shahaf , Zugayar Diaa , Pikarsky Alon , Mazeh Haggi , Spira Ram , Reissman Petachia
Published: May 2020

Background

As the novel coronavirus disease 19 (COVID‐19) spreads, a decrease in the number of patients with acute appendicitis (AA) has been noted in our institutions. The aim of this study was to compare the incidence and severity of AA before and during the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Methods

A retrospective cohort analysis was performed between December 2019 and April 2020 in the four high‐volume centres that provide health care to the municipality of Jerusalem, Israel. Two groups were created. Group A consisted of patients who presented in the 7 weeks prior to COVID‐19 first being diagnosed, whilst those in the 7 weeks after were allocated to Group B. A comparison was performed between the clinicopathological features of the patients in each group as was the changing incidence of AA.

Results

A total of 378 patients were identified, 237 in Group A and 141 in Group B (62.7% vs. 37.3%). Following the onset of COVID‐19, the weekly incidence of AA decreased by 40.7% (p = 0.02). There was no significant difference between the groups in terms of the length of preoperative symptoms or surgery, need for postoperative peritoneal drainage or the distribution of complicated versus uncomplicated appendicitis.

Conclusions

The significant decrease in the number of patients admitted with AA during the onset of COVID‐19 possibly represents successful resolution of mild appendicitis treated symptomatically by patients at home. Further research is needed to corroborate this assumption and identify those patients who may benefit from this treatment pathway.
Can-Pain-a digital intervention to optimise cancer pain control in the community: development and feasibility testing
Authors: Adam Rosalind , Bond Christine M. , Burton Christopher D. , de Bruin Marijn , Murchie Peter
Published: May 2020

Purpose

To develop a novel digital intervention to optimise cancer pain control in the community. This paper describes intervention development, content/rationale and initial feasibility testing.

Methods

Determinants of suboptimal cancer pain management were characterised through two systematic reviews; patient, caregiver and healthcare professional (HCP) interviews (n = 39); and two HCP focus groups (n = 12). Intervention mapping was used to translate results into theory-based content, creating the app “Can-Pain”. Patients with/without a linked caregiver, their general practitioners and community palliative care nurses were recruited to feasibility test Can-Pain over 4 weeks.

Results

Patients on strong opioids described challenges balancing pain levels with opioid intake, side effects and activities and communicating about pain management problems with HCPs. Can-Pain addresses these challenges through educational resources, contemporaneous short-acting opioid tracking and weekly patient-reported outcome monitoring. Novel aspects of Can-Pain include the use of contemporaneous breakthrough analgesic reports as a surrogate measure of pain control and measuring the level at which pain becomes bothersome to the individual.

Patients were unwell due to advanced cancer, making recruitment to feasibility testing difficult. Two patients and one caregiver used Can-Pain for 4 weeks, sharing weekly reports with four HCPs. Can-Pain highlighted unrecognised problems, promoted shared understanding about symptoms between patients and HCPs and supported shared decision-making.

Conclusions

Preliminary testing suggests that Can-Pain is feasible and could promote patient-centred pain management. We will conduct further small-scale evaluations to inform a future randomised, stepped-wedge trial.

Trial registration

Qualitative research:ClinicalTrials.gov, reference NCT02341846

Feasibility study: NIHR CPMS database ID 34172
SWI and phase imaging reveal intracranial calcifications in the P301L mouse model of human tauopathy
Authors: Ni Ruiqing , Zarb Yvette , Kuhn Gisela A. , Müller Ralph , Yundung Yankey , Nitsch Roger M. , Kulic Luka , Keller Annika , Klohs Jan
Published: May 2020

Objective

Brain calcifications are associated with several neurodegenerative diseases. Here, we describe the occurrence of intracranial calcifications as a new phenotype in transgenic P301L mice overexpressing four repeat tau, a model of human tauopathy.

Materials and methods

Thirty-six P301L mice (Thy1.2) and ten age-matched non-transgenic littermates of different ages were assessed. Gradient echo data were acquired in vivo and ex vivo at 7 T and 9.4 T for susceptibility-weighted imaging (SWI) and phase imaging. In addition, ex vivo micro-computed tomography (μCT) was performed. Histochemistry and immunohistochemistry were used to investigate the nature of the imaging lesions.

Results

SW images revealed regional hypointensities in the hippocampus, cortex, caudate nucleus, and thalamus of P301L mice, which in corresponding phase images indicated diamagnetic lesions. Concomitantly, µCT detected hyperdense lesions, though fewer lesions were observed compared to MRI. Diamagnetic susceptibility lesions in the hippocampus increased with age. The immunochemical staining of brain sections revealed osteocalcin-positive deposits. Furthermore, intra-neuronal and vessel-associated osteocalcin-containing nodules co-localized with phosphorylated-tau (AT8 and AT100) in the hippocampus, while vascular osteocalcin-containing nodules were detected in the thalamus in the absence of phosphorylated-tau deposition.

Discussion

SWI and phase imaging sensitively detected intracranial calcifications in the P301L mouse model of human tauopathy.
“False Friends” and Some Other Phenomena Reflecting the Historical Determination of the Terminology of Hungarian Private Law
Authors: Földi András
Published: May 2020

This article deals with some phenomena of the Hungarian legal language from a historical point of view, with special regard to the terminology of private law going back to Roman law tradition. The author aims, on the one hand, to present the historical background of the current terminology of Hungarian private law by means of some representative examples. On the other hand, it is attempted at demonstrating that “false friends” and some further misunderstandings in the current terminology of Hungarian private law can be led back to the historical determination of the concepts/terms in question. A certain Hungarian legal language existed already in the 16th c., however it reached the common European level by the middle of the 19th c. This development took place mainly under the influence of the Austrian and German law and legal science. Due to the translation of foreign legal terms to Hungarian since the 19th c. there emerged some “global” difficulties of legal terminology also in the Hungarian legal language. As the most important example, the reception of bona fides can be mentioned. It was an amendment of the Hungarian Civil Code in 2006 which tried to eliminate the misunderstandings as regards the principle of good faith (and fair dealing) conceived formerly by many Hungarian jurists exclusively in subjective sense. The history of reception of the German notions of Gültigkeit and Wirksamkeit in Hungary is extremely intriguing, too. Hungarian jurists did not follow the pattern of the German BGB but developed this pair created by Windscheid by drawing a clear distinction between the validity and effectiveness of legal transactions (as well as of the legal norms), similar to the Italian terminology (validità v. efficacia). Sometimes the reception of German notions happened in a less successful way (e.g. in the case of negatives Interesse created by Jhering, which can be qualified as a “false friend” in Hungary in comparison with the original German notion). Despite the important foreign, especially German impacts, the Hungarian legal language is an autonomous one having several remarkable features which deserve attention also in comparison with terminology of the Western legal cultures.
Study of Surface Roughness on Friction in Rolling/Sliding Contacts: Ball-on-Disc Versus Twin-Disc
Authors: Bergseth Ellen , Zhu Yi , Söderberg Anders
Published: May 2020

Although the efficiency of a gear pair is currently high, a better understanding of surface/lubricant contribution on efficiency is critical. Electrified drivelines will, for example, impose higher speed and alternate loading, and it is expected that these new conditions will, to a greater extent, rely on the surface/lubricant characteristics. Phenomena taking place in the gear contact is often measured using ball-on-disc and twin-disc tribometers. In this study, these two test set-ups were compared in order to assess differences in the behaviour of surface/lubricant interactions. Results showed that ball-on-disc and twin-disc set-ups reflect the same friction trends. However, the friction results differed by a factor of roughly two, even though the tribometers were set-up to run at the same contact pressure. The wear mechanisms also differed: micropits occurred on discs used in the twin-disc set-up, whereas normal or no wear was found on the ball-on-disc specimens. The contact conditions for the two test set-ups were also analysed using a numerical model. The comparison of these two machines may aid gear designers in selecting the proper experimental set-up for their purpose.
Metacognitive awareness as measured by second-order judgements among university and secondary school students
Authors: Nederhand Marloes L. , Tabbers Huib K. , De Bruin Anique B.H. , Rikers Remy M. J. P.
Published: May 2020

When compared to high performers, low performers generally have more difficulty to accurately estimate their own performance. This has been explained by low performers being both unskilled and unaware about their performance. However, Miller and Geraci Journal of Experimental Psychology: Learning, Memory, and Cognition, 37(2), 502–506, (2011) found that low performing university students also assigned less confidence to their estimates (i.e., second-order judgments, SOJs), indicating some metacognitive awareness of their poor calibration. The current study examined whether the relationship between calibration accuracy and confidence in performance estimates is more general, and exists irrespective of performance level, not only for university students but also for secondary school students. We asked university students and secondary school students to estimate their exam grade after taking their exam, and to provide a second-order judgement). The results showed that for university students, poor calibration accuracy was indeed accompanied by low confidence scores, independent from performance level. For secondary school students however, calibration accuracy was unrelated to confidence scores, suggesting a less developed metacognitive awareness.
Graphene Oxide Functionalized Optical Planar Waveguide for Water Content Measurement in Alcohol
Authors: Lim Wenghong , Yap Yuenkiat , Lai Choonkong , Chong Wuyi , Ahmad Harith
Published: May 2020

An abrupt change in optical transmission characteristic of a graphene oxide (GO) coated optical planar waveguide was observed. This observation was based on the peculiar characteristics of the graphene oxide film, namely its high transverse-electric polarized light propagation loss, highly selective permeability of water, and change in optical propagation characteristic in the presence of water. The as-fabricated GO-coated optical waveguide showed a large polarization dependent loss of ~32 dB in the C-band optical fiber communication window (1550 nm). The response of the proposed sensor was first tested by using water. When a drop of water was applied onto the GO coating, the large polarization dependent loss was fully suppressed almost instantaneously. This effect was reversible as the polarization dependent loss was restored after complete water evaporation from the GO coating. All-optical measurement of water content in alcohol was then demonstrated by using the GO-coated optical waveguide. By analyzing the drying profile of the water-alcohol mixture, water content in the range of 0.2 volume % – 100 volume % could be measured. These measurements were carried out by using solution volume of 1.0 μL only. The all-optical sensing nature of the proposed sensor has potential applications in in-situ monitoring of water content in alcohol.
Acute mastoiditis in children: contemporary opportunities and challenges
Authors: Mather M , Powell S , Yates P D , Powell J
Published: May 2020

Background

Mastoiditis is the most common intra-temporal complication of acute otitis media. Despite potentially lethal sequelae, optimal management remains poorly defined.

Method

A retrospective case review was conducted of children diagnosed with mastoiditis at a tertiary referral centre, in North East England, between 2010 and 2017.

Results

Fifty-one cases were identified, 49 without cholesteatoma. Median patient age was 42 months (2 months to 18 years) and median hospital stay was 4 days (range, 0–27 days). There was no incidence trend over time. Imaging was conducted in 15 out of 49 cases. Surgery was performed in 29 out of 49 cases, most commonly mastoidectomy with (9 out of 29) or without (9 out of 29) grommets. Complications included sigmoid sinus thrombosis (3 out of 49) and extradural abscess (2 out of 51), amongst others; no fatalities occurred.

Conclusion

A detailed contemporary description of paediatric mastoiditis presentation and management is presented. The findings broadly mirror those published by other UK centres, but suggest a higher rate of identified disease complications and surgical interventions.
Maladaptive social norms, cultural progress, and the free-energy principle
Authors: Colombo Matteo
Published: May 2020

Veissière and collaborators ground their account of culture and social norms in the free-energy principle, which postulates that the utility (or adaptive value) of an outcome is equivalent to its probability. This equivalence would mean that their account entails that complying with social norms has always adaptive value. But, this is false, because many social norms are obviously maladaptive.
Thinking with other minds
Authors: Baggs Edward , Chemero Anthony
Published: May 2020

We applaud the ambition of Veissière et al.'s account of cultural learning, and the attempt to ground higher order thinking in embodied theory. However, the account is limited by loose terminology, and by its commitment to a view of the child learner as inference-maker. Vygotsky offers a more powerful view of cultural learning, one that is fully compatible with embodiment.
Skill-based engagement with a rich landscape of affordances as an alternative to thinking through other minds
Authors: Kiverstein Julian , Rietveld Erik
Published: May 2020

Veissière and colleagues make a valiant attempt at reconciling an internalist account of implicit cultural learning with an externalist account that understands social behaviour in terms of its environment-involving dynamics. However, unfortunately the author's attempt to forge a middle way between internalism and externalism fails. We argue their failure stems from the overly individualistic understanding of the perception of cultural affordances they propose.
Multicultural Experiences and the Secondary Transfer Effect of Intercultural Attitudes
Authors: Sparkman David J.
Published: May 2020

Abstract. This research investigates whether multicultural experiences (MCEs) (1) improve attitudes toward primary outgroups, (2) improve attitudes toward secondary outgroups (the “secondary transfer effect”) – depending on the perceived similarity versus dissimilarity of the target group, and (3) affect ingroup reappraisal. The deprovincialization and attitude generalization hypotheses were also investigated as underlying mechanisms. A meta-analysis of effects across studies ( N = 633) revealed MCEs (1) improve primary attitudes ( r = .19), (2) improve, albeit more weakly, similar secondary attitudes ( r = .10), but have no significant effect on dissimilar secondary attitudes ( r = .07); (3) have no effect on ingroup reappraisal ( r = .04), and (4) only improve secondary attitudes through attitude generalization. Contributions, limitations, and emerging questions regarding deprovincialization are discussed.