bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experimental Study on Heat Generation During Copper-Oxide Growth Caused by Incomplete Contact between Terminal Blocks and Wire Connections
Authors: Choi Sugil , Choi Yoojeong , Kim Sikuk
Published: October 2022

This paper presents an experimental study on the proliferative exotherm of copper oxide caused by incomplete contact between the terminal blocks and wire connections. The growth characteristics of copper oxide revealed that the growth rate and size of the copper oxide product increased with an increase in the current supply. As for the temperature characteristics by vibration intensity according to the contact failure between the wire and the terminal block, the faster the number of vibrations, the faster the melting, carbonization, and cuprous oxide generation times under all conditions. For the 1.5 sq. insulated wire, it was confirmed that the flame was generated due to the arc-to-contact mechanism at 700 rpm and 900 rpm. A detailed component analysis on the characteristics of each sample confirmed that the copper content increased in the copper-oxide-proliferated insulated wire. In contrast, the copper content was considerably low in the shorted insulated wire.
Curing Characteristics Based on the Mixing Ratio of MKP and Retardant in Phosphate-Based Rapid Hardening Repair Materials
Authors: Lee Jaeyoung , Kim Jaehwan
Published: October 2022

Potholes in asphalt are phenomena in which a part or all of the surface layer is lost due to water, traffic load, and/or changes in temperature, which can lead to traffic accidents. Emergency repair materials used in pothole emergency repair work require different qualities such as suitable curing properties and fluidity, early strength development, high durability and adhesion strength, and moderate heat generation properties. Chemically bonded phosphate ceramic composites made of phosphate and magnesium oxide as main materials are recognized as rapidly hardening materials. This study evaluates the fluidity, hardenability, and mechanical properties of asphalt based on the magnesium oxide and phosphate ratio and retardant used to develop pothole repair materials. Experiments attempted to derive the optimal combination of phosphate and magnesium oxide, where the mixing ratio of phosphate and magnesium oxide and the curing time and curing characteristics based on increases in the contents of the retardant mixture were considered.
Comparison of Assessments of Urban Areas Using the Flood Vulnerability and Potential Flood Damage Methods
Authors: Kim Eungseok , Lee Seunghyun
Published: October 2022

Recently, urban flood damage has rapidly increased due to climate change, rapid urbanization, and frequent guerrilla heavy rains. Therefore, a quantitative flood damage analysis technique is required for effective policy regarding flooding in urban areas. In this study, the flood vulnerability and potential flood damage (PFD) methods, which are representative methods for analyzing the degree of flood damage in urban areas, were applied. In addition, the results of each analysis method were compared and analyzed using the flood prevention capacity-damage (PCD) matrix technique, which intuitively shows that even if many existing flood protection facilities are built, flood damage can be large when there is insufficient management or heavy rainfall exceeding the design rainfall occurs. The two existing flood damage techniques estimated Seocho-gu to have low flood vulnerability due to high financial independence and many flood damage protection facilities. However, application of the PCD matrix resulted in classifying Seocho-gu as highly vulnerable to flooding. These conflicting results thus demonstrate that a more detailed review and analysis are necessary when establishing a flood protection policy.
A Proposal for Governance of Response During the Transition and Recovery Phases Following a Large-scale Nuclear Accident
Authors: Kim Hyun Ki , Ha Wi-Ho , Shin Hyeong Ki
Published: October 2022

Since the Fukushima nuclear power plant accident, the importance of a smooth transition from the emergency phase to the recovery phase has been highlighted for the prompt resumption of social and economic activities. Recently, the IAEA has published its recommendations and guidelines on the arrangements that can be made to facilitate the transition from emergency to recovery phases. The development of a recovery management framework in preparedness is key to ensuring that the recovery process is managed effectively and the objectives of recovery are met. As part of this framework, this study has drawn up an improvement plan for the “Act on Physical Protection and Radiological Emergency” in terms of governance of the transition and recovery phases. This plan is summarized in the establishment of a government-level dedicated organization to oversee the activities that take place during transition and recovery, as well as its operating system and assignment of responsibilities and roles between the local and national governments in recovery. The results of this study could be used as input to revise related laws and manuals to strengthen governance during the transition and recovery phases that follow a nuclear accident.
Analysis of a Wildfire and Smoke Propagation Model at Chiak Mountain Using Computational Fluid Dynamics
Authors: Kim Jaekyoung , Kang Junsuk
Published: October 2022

This study analyzed the arrival time and diffusion pattern of a wildfire at Chiak Mountain, Wonju, Korea. Simcenter STAR-CCM+, which is a computational fluid dynamics program, was used to analyze flow fields generated by mountain topography and to create a combustion model. The size of the area under study was 16 km², and ignition was conducted at the first campsite. Approximately six million mesh were generated. The temperature and propagation of soot were analyzed for 1 h after the simulation was started. Implicit unsteady analysis was used for time-dependent diffusion, and molecular diffusivity was used for flow field analysis. The results were as follows. 1) The spread of the wildfire was affected by the stack effect derived from the wind direction and mountain topography. 2) Approximately 22 min were required for the wildfire to spread from the campground to a western point 500 m away, and the average temperature was 1,200 ℃ or higher. 3) The spread of the wildfire and soot caused by the difference between the ignition and flash points of the wildfire became faster over time.
Refining Perovskite Heterojunctions for Effective Light‐Emitting Solar Cells
Authors: Chen Peng , Hu Juntao , Yu Maotao , Li Peicheng , Su Rui , Wang Zaiwei , Zhao Lichen , Li Shunde , Yang Yingguo , Zhang Yuzhuo , Li Qiuyang , Luo Deying , Gong Qihuang , Sargent Edward H. , Zhu Rui , Lu Zheng‐Hong
Published: October 2022

Solar cells capable of light‐harvesting during daytime and light‐emission at night are multifunctional semiconductor devices with many potential applications. Here, it is reported that halide perovskite heterojunction interfaces can be refined to yield stable and efficient solar cells. The cell can also operate effectively as an ultralow‐voltage light‐emitting diode (LED) with a peak external quantum efficiency of electroluminescence (EQEEL) of 3.3%. Spectroscopic and microscopic studies reveal that double‐heterojunction refinement with wide‐bandgap salts is key to densifying the packing of perovskite grains and enlarging the bandgaps of the perovskite surfaces that are in contact with charge‐transport semiconductors. The refined perovskite enables a simple device with dual actions of solar cells and LEDs. This type of all‐in‐one device has the potential to be used in multifunctional harvesting–storage–utilization (HSU) systems.
Implementation of Experimental Design Techniques to Optimize Immunoglobulins Detection with Ultrasensitive Sandwich Immunoassays
Authors: Scandurra Cecilia , Bollella Paolo , Österbacka Ronald , Leonetti Francesco , Macchia Eleonora , Torsi Luisa
Published: October 2022

The ultrasensitive measurement of protein markers plays a pivotal role in the early diagnosis of infectious and progressive diseases. Recently, digital methods such as those enabled by the Simoa Planar Array technology (SP‐X System) have made significant progress in reaching ultrasensitive detection with clinically relevant protein biomarkers. The elicited Simoa technology is based on printing high‐density capturing antibodies layers on the bottom of the wells of a microtiter plate, followed by a standard sandwich‐type immunometric chemiluminescent detection. Such assay, reaching limit‐of‐detections (LODs) in the low femtomolar range, can be conveniently customized. An optimized Simoa SP‐X assay for detecting and quantifying immunoglobulin M (IgM, non‐specific indicator of inflammation) is developed herein and optimized. A full factorial experimental design is undertaken to optimize the assay, leading to a reduced experimental effort and increased quality of the information obtained concerning the traditional one‐variable‐at‐a‐time approach. The optimization process leads to an IgM LOD of 4 fm
that compares well with those achieved with commercially available Simoa Planar Array kits. Remarkably, depositing both the capturing and detecting layer from a solution (0.1 µg mL−1) one order of magnitude less concentrated than in standard kits is needed, and the assay's cost is sizably reduced.
Sex‐Based Differences in the Biodistribution of Nanoparticles and Their Effect on Hormonal, Immune, and Metabolic Function
Authors: Poley Maria , Chen Gal , Sharf-Pauker Noga , Avital Aviram , Kaduri Maya , Sela Mor , Raimundo Patricia Mora , Koren Lilach , Arber Sivan , Egorov Egor , Shainsky Janna , Shklover Jeny , Schroeder Avi
Published: October 2022

Males and females respond differently to medications due to physiologic, metabolic, and genetic factors. At times, sex‐related differences cannot be mitigated by dose adjustment to body mass, and are evident from the tissue level to the single cell. The rising number of clinically approved nanotechnologies calls for assessing how their activity is affected by the patient's sex. Herein, sex differences in nanotechnology are scoped, with emphasis on molecular considerations. Sex‐specific pharmacokinetics of nanocarriers is influenced by the nanoparticle's composition, its size, and architecture. The biodistribution and immune response to nanoparticles in males and females, and the influence nanoparticles have on hormones, fertility, and toxicity, are discussed. Despite its importance, the effect of sex on the design and implementation of nanomedicines is underresearched. Herein, it is aimed to raise awareness of sex differences in the preclinical and clinical evaluation of nanotechnologies.
2D Hexagonal Assemblies of Amphiphilic Double‐Helical Poly(phenylacetylene) Homopolymers with Enhanced Circularly Polarized Luminescence and Chiral Self‐Sorting
Authors: Cai Siliang , Huang Yihan , Xie Siyu , Wang Sheng , Guan Yan , Wan Xinhua , Zhang Jie
Published: October 2022

Two‐dimensional (2D) chiral materials have been attracting immense attentions owing to their unique properties. Herein, we successfully developed a unique assembly strategy of amphiphilic homopolymers to construct stable free‐standing 2D chiral nanosheets in solution. The amphiphilic poly(phenylacetylene) (PPA) homopolymers bearing the hydrophobic and hydrophilic dendritic side chains adopt a DNA‐like double‐helical conformation. The regular hexagonal nanosheets were formed in THF/EtOH through nucleation and epitaxial growth. The sizes of the nanosheets can be modulated from nanometers to submillimeters upon varying the ratio of binary solvents, while the thickness is linearly correlated with the molecular weights. The 2D architecture can significantly enhance the CPL of polymers with a high dissymmetry factor ≈0.1. Driven by a discrimination of helical conformation, the PPAs can self‐sort into homochiral 2D nanosheets, as directly visualized by using fluorescent microscopy.
Towards more efficient hydroformylation of long‐chain alkenes in aqueous biphasic system using microbubbles
Authors: Ruan Jian , Jiang Youkai , Zhang Yaheng , Zhao Luhaibo , Zhang Jie , Tang Zhiyong
Published: October 2022

Microbubbles were applied for the first time to enhance the aqueous biphasic hydroformylation of long‐chain alkenes. The gas–liquid–liquid multiphase hydroformylation was carried out using 1‐dodecene as model higher olefin and dihexadecyl dimethyl ammonium bromide (DDAB) as surfactant. The increasing liquid temperature resulted in the increased mean bubble size and total bubble number, but this trend became inapparent at high temperatures due to the reduced liquid viscosity. The increasing gas flow rate was favorable to increase the multiphase interfacial area, thus leading to the increasing mass transfer coefficient KLa. The conversion of 1‐dodecene reached maximum 95% in the three‐phase microemulsion system, and at a gas flow rate of 40 ml min−1. Further increasing the gas flow rate to 80 ml min−1 decreased the conversion, which was attributed to the destroyed flow field, as observed in micro‐PIV. Owing to the increased multiphase mass transfer efficiency, the application of microbubbles allowed to intensify the hydroformylation reaction with reduced reaction pressure, higher chemoselectivity, and increased turnover frequency (TOF).
Functional connectivity in behavioral variant frontotemporal dementia
Authors: Ferreira Luiz Kobuti , Lindberg Olof , Santillo Alexander F , Wahlund Lars‐Olof
Published: October 2022

Introduction

Functional connectivity (FC)—which reflects relationships between neural activity in different brain regions—has been used to explore the functional architecture of the brain in neurodegenerative disorders. Although an increasing number of studies have explored FC changes in behavioral variant frontotemporal dementia (bvFTD), there is no focused, in‐depth review about FC in bvFTD.

Methods

Comprehensive literature search and narrative review to summarize the current field of FC in bvFTD.

Results

(1) Decreased FC within the salience network (SN) is the most consistent finding in bvFTD; (2) FC changes extend beyond the SN and affect the interplay between networks; (3) results within the Default Mode Network are mixed; (4) the brain as a network is less interconnected and less efficient in bvFTD; (5) symptoms, functional impairment, and cognition are associated with FC; and (6) the functional architecture resembles patterns of neuropathological spread.

Conclusions

FC has potential as a biomarker, and future studies are expected to advance the field with multicentric initiatives, longitudinal designs, and methodological advances.
Quantitative electroencephalographic analysis of delirium tremens development following alcohol‐withdrawal seizure based on a small number of male cases
Authors: Yoon Jee‐Eun , Mo Heejung , Kim Dong Wook , Im Hee‐Jin
Published: October 2022

Introduction

Seizures and delirium tremens (DTs) are recognized as severe alcohol‐withdrawal symptoms. Prolonged admission and serious complications associated with alcohol withdrawal are responsible for increased costs and use of medical and social resources. This study investigated the predictive value of quantitative electroencephalography (QEEG) for developing alcohol‐related DTs after alcohol‐withdrawal seizure (AWS).

Methods

We compared differences in QEEG in patients after AWS (n = 13). QEEG was performed in the intensive care unit within 48 h of admission, including in age‐ and sex‐matched healthy controls. We also investigated the prognostic value of QEEG for the development of alcohol DTs after AWS in a retrospective, case‒control study. The spectral power of each band frequency and the ratio of the theta to alpha band (TAR) in the electroencephalogram were analyzed using iSyncBrain® (iMediSync, Inc., Korea).

Results

The beta frequency and the alpha frequency band power were significantly higher and lower, respectively, in patients than in age‐ and sex‐matched healthy controls. In AWS patients with DTs, the relative beta‐3 power was lower, particularly in the left frontal area, and the TAR was significantly higher in the central channel than in those without DTs.

Conclusion

Quantitative EEG showed neuronal excitability and decreased cognitive activities characteristic of AWS associated with alcohol‐withdrawal state, and we demonstrated that quantitative EEG might be a helpful tool for detecting patients at a high risk of developing DTs during an alcohol‐dependence period.
Subaqueous free‐standing 3D cell culture system for ultrafast cell compaction, mechano‐inductive immune control, and improving therapeutic angiogenesis
Authors: Im Gwang‐Bum , Kim Yu‐Jin , Lee Tae Il , Bhang Suk Ho
Published: October 2022

Conventional 3D cell culture methods require a comprehensive complement in labor‐intensive and time‐consuming processes along with in vivo circumstantial mimicking. Here, we describe a subaqueous free‐standing 3D cell culture (FS) device that can induce the omnidirectional environment and generate ultrafast human adipose‐derived stem cells (hADSCs) that efficiently aggregate with compaction using acoustic pressure. The cell culture conditions were optimized using the FS device and identified the underlying molecular mechanisms. Unique phenomena in cell aggregation have led to extraordinary cellular behavior that can upregulate cell compaction, mechanosensitive immune control, and therapeutic angiogenesis. Therefore, we designated the resulting cell aggregates as “pressuroid.” Notably, external acoustic stimulation produced by the FS device affected the pressuroids. Furthermore, the pressuroids exhibited upregulation in mechanosensitive genes and proteins, PIEZO1/2. CyclinD1 and PCNA, which are strongly associated with cell adhesion and proliferation, were elevated by PIEZO1/2. In addition, we found that pressuroids significantly increase angiogenic paracrine factor secretion, promote cell adhesion molecule expression, and enhance M2 immune modulation of Thp1 cells. Altogether, we have concluded that our pressuroid would suggest a more effective therapy method for future cell therapy than the conventional one.
Targeted co‐delivery of paclitaxel and anti P‐gp shRNA by low molecular weight PEI decorated with L‐3,4‐dihydroxyphenylalanine
Authors: Kazemi Maryam , Parhizkar Elahehnaz , Samani Soliman Mohammadi , Firuzi Omidreza , Sadeghpour Hossein , Ahmadi Fatemeh , Dehshahri Ali
Published: October 2022

Co‐delivery of small chemotherapeutic molecules and nucleic acid materials via targeted carriers has attracted great attention for treatment of resistant tumors and reducing adverse effects. In this study, a targeted carrier for co‐delivery was prepared based on low‐molecular weight polyethylenimine (LMW PEI). Paclitaxel (PTX) was covalently conjugated onto PEI via a succinate linker. The PEI conjugate was decorated with L‐DOPA in order to target large neutral amino acid transporter‐1 (LAT‐1) that is over‐expressed on various cancer cells. This PEI conjugate was complexed with human ABCB1 shRNA plasmid to down‐regulate the expression of P‐glycoprotein, as one of the major efflux pumps inducing resistance against chemotherapeutics. The formation of PEI conjugate enhanced the solubility of PTX and resulted in the condensation and protection of plasmid DNA in nanosized polyplexes. The results of targeted delivery into the cells demonstrated that PEI conjugate transferred the payloads to the cells over‐expressing LAT‐1 transporter, while the biological effects on the cells lacking the transporter was negligible. Also, shRNA‐mediated down‐regulation of P‐gp led to the increase of toxic effects on the cells over‐expressing P‐gp. This study suggests a promising approach for co‐delivery of small molecules and nucleic acid materials in a targeted manner for cancer therapy.
A model for the catalytic activity of microtubule polymerases
Authors: Xie Ping
Published: October 2022

A XMAP215/Stu2/Alp14 polymerase can catalyze processively the tubulin addition to the microtubule (MT) plus end. In this work, a model is proposed for the underlying molecular mechanism of the polymerase activity, where the polymerase can not only catalyze processively the tubulin addition to but also promote the tubulin removal from the MT plus end. Based on the model the dynamics of both the wild‐type and mutant polymerases is studied theoretically, explaining consistently and well various available experimental data. To further test the model, predicted results are provided.
What happens in the long term: Uptake of cancer surveillance and prevention strategies among at‐risk relatives with pathogenic variants detected via cascade testing
Authors: Frey Melissa K. , Ahsan Muhammad Danyal , Badiner Nora , Lin Jenny , Narayan Priyanka , Nitecki Roni , Rauh‐Hain Jose Alejandro , Moss Haley , Fowlkes Rana Khan , Thomas Charlene , Bergeron Hannah , Christos Paul , Levi Sarah R. , Blank Stephanie V. , Holcomb Kevin , Cantillo Evelyn , Sharaf Ravi N. , Lipkin Steven , Offit Kenneth , Chapman‐Davis Eloise
Published: October 2022

Background

Cascade genetic testing for hereditary cancer syndromes offers affected relatives the opportunity to pursue cancer screening and risk‐reducing surgery and thus reduces morbidity and mortality. The purpose of this study was to measure the long‐term utilization of targeted cancer prevention and quality of life among at‐risk relatives offered clinician‐facilitated cascade genetic testing.

Methods

In a pilot study, at‐risk relatives of patients with a hereditary cancer syndrome were contacted directly by the clinical team and offered telephone genetic counseling and genetic testing via an at‐home, mailed saliva kit. Two‐year follow‐up results evaluating the use of targeted cancer prevention strategies and the quality of life for enrolled relatives were reported. Quality‐of‐life was measured with validated surveys, and scores were compared to the time of initial contact by the Wilcoxon signed‐rank test.

Results

Ninety‐five at‐risk relatives were enrolled in the initial pilot study, and 72 (76%) participated in the 2‐year follow‐up; 57 of these (79%) had completed genetic testing. Twenty‐five of those 57 relatives (44%) were found to harbor an inherited pathogenic variant. Guideline‐based cancer surveillance was recommended to 18 relatives; 13 (72%) completed at least one recommended screening, and six (33%) completed all recommended screenings. Risk‐reducing surgery was recommended to 10 relatives; four (40%) completed a total of eight procedures. Quality‐of‐life surveys demonstrated low levels of anxiety, depression, distress, and uncertainty.

Conclusions

The 2‐year follow‐up of the original pilot study revealed that clinician‐facilitated cascade testing resulted in genetically targeted cancer screening and prevention with preserved quality of life. These results, to be confirmed by larger randomized controlled trials, suggest that medical systems should consider supporting clinician‐facilitated cascade testing programs.
Different Growth Behavior of MOF‐on‐MOF Heterostructures to Enhance Oxygen Evolution
Authors: Mao Lujiao , Chen Dandan , Guo Yuanyuan , Han Cheng , Zhou Xuemei , Yang Zhi , Huang Shaoming , Qian Jinjie
Published: October 2022

The exploration of non‐noble metal electrocatalysts with high catalytic activity and stability for oxygen evolution reaction (OER) has become particularly urgent. Here, FeNi‐based Prussian blue analogues (PBAs) were obtained by adding different solvents, where PBA particles preferentially grew on the surface plane/edge of coordination polymer precursor (Ni‐ABDC) with various polarities. This resulted in the formation of FeNi‐PBA‐plane/edge morphologies, respectively. Notably, on account of more exposed PBAs, FeNi nanoparticles were uniformly supported on the porous N‐doped carbon nanomaterials. Among them, the calcined FeNi‐NC‐800 underwent an interesting pre‐activation process and exhibited a low overpotential of 281 mV at 10 mA cm−2 and a small Tafel slope of 82 mV dec−1 in 1.0 m KOH. This bimetallic sample showed superior OER activity and stability in comparison with control materials, which could be attributed to its abundant FeNi nanoparticles, high nitrogen content, large specific surface area, and synergistic effects between Fe and Ni atoms. In addition, relevant theoretical calculation on the optimal catalyst, FeNi‐NC‐800, further demonstrated its efficient OER performance with effective Fe‐doping in the Ni‐based oxyhydroxides.
Association between heart failure quality of care and mortality: a population‐based cohort study using nationwide registries
Authors: Batra Gorav , Aktaa Suleman , Benson Lina , Dahlström Ulf , Hage Camilla , Savarese Gianluigi , Vasko Peter , Gale Chris P. , Lund Lars H.
Published: October 2022

Aims

To evaluate the quality of heart failure (HF) care using the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) quality indicators (QIs) for HF and to assess whether better quality of care is associated with improved outcomes.

Methods and results

We performed a nationwide cohort study using the Swedish HF registry, consisting of patients with any type of HF at their first outpatient visit or hospitalization. Independent participant data for quality of HF care was evaluated against the ESC QIs for HF, and association with mortality estimated using multivariable Cox regression. In total, 43 704 patients from 80 hospitals across Sweden enrolled between 2013–2019 were included, with median follow‐up 23.6 months. Of the 16 QIs for HF, 13 could be measured and 5 were inversely associated with all‐cause mortality during follow‐up. Higher attainment (≥50% vs. <50% attainment) of the composite opportunity‐based score (combination of QIs into a single score) for patients with reduced ejection fraction was associated with lower all‐cause mortality (adjusted hazard ratio 0.81; 95% confidence interval 0.72–0.91). Attainment of the composite score was less in the outpatient than inpatient setting (adjusted odds ratio 0.85; 95% confidence interval 0.72–0.99). Quality of care varied across hospitals, with assessment of health‐related quality of life being the indicator with the widest variation in attainment (interquartile range 61.7%).

Conclusion

Quality of HF care may be measured using the ESC HF QIs. In Sweden, attainment of HF care evaluated using the QIs demonstrated between and within hospital variation, and many QIs were inversely associated with mortality.
Spironolactone effect on cardiac structure and function of patients with heart failure and preserved ejection fraction: a pooled analysis of three randomized trials
Authors: Ferreira João Pedro , Cleland John G. , Girerd Nicolas , Bozec Erwan , Rossignol Patrick , Pellicori Pierpaolo , Cosmi Franco , Mariottoni Beatrice , Solomon Scott D. , Pitt Bertram , Pfeffer Marc A. , Shah Amil M. , Petutschnigg Johannes , Pieske Burkert , Edelmann Frank , Zannad Faiez
Published: October 2022

Aims

Spironolactone is currently used in a large proportion of patients with heart failure and preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), yet its effect on cardiac structure and function in a large population has not been well established. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of spironolactone on key echocardiographic parameters in HFpEF.

Methods and results

An individual‐patient‐data meta‐analysis of three randomized trials (HOMAGE, Aldo‐DHF, and TOPCAT) was performed comparing spironolactone (9–12 month exposure) to placebo (or control) for the changes in left atrial volume index (LAVi), left ventricular mass index (LVMi), interventricular septum (IVS) thickness, E/e′ ratio, and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) among patients with stage B (HOMAGE) or C (Aldo‐DHF and TOPCAT) HFpEF. Analysis of covariance was used to test the effect of spironolactone on echocardiographic changes. A total of 984 patients were included in this analysis: 452 (45.9%) from HOMAGE, 398 (40.4%) from Aldo‐DHF, and 134 (13.6%) from TOPCAT. The pooled‐cohort patient's median age was 71 (66–77) years and 39% were women. Median LAVi was 29 (24–35) ml/m2, LVMi 100 (84–118) g/m2, IVS thickness 12 (10–13) mm, E/e′ ratio 11 (9–13), and LVEF 64 (59–69)%. Spironolactone reduced LAVi by −1.1 (−2.0 to −0.1) ml/m2 (p = 0.03); LVMi by −3.6 (−6.4 to −0.8) g/m2 (p = 0.01); IVS thickness by −0.2 (−0.3 to −0.1) mm (p = 0.01); E/e′ ratio by −1.3 (−2.4 to −0.2) (p = 0.02); and increased LVEF by 1.7 (0.8–2.6)% (p < 0.01). No treatment‐by‐study heterogeneity was found except for E/e′ ratio with a larger effect in Aldo‐DHF and TOPCAT (interaction p < 0.01).

Conclusions

Spironolactone improved cardiac structure and function of patients with HFpEF.
Endocrine hormone imbalance in heart failure with reduced ejection fraction: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Nägele Matthias P. , Barthelmes Jens , Kreysing Leonie , Haider Thomas , Nebunu Delia , Ruschitzka Frank , Sudano Isabella , Flammer Andreas J.
Published: October 2022

Background and Aims

Sustained neurohormonal activation plays a central role in the progression of heart failure (HF). Other endocrine axes may also be affected. It was the aim of this study to examine the endocrine profile (thyroid, parathyroid, glucocorticoid, and sex hormones) in a contemporary sample of patients with HF and reduced ejection fraction (EF) on established disease‐modifying therapy.

Methods

This study prospectively measured morning fasting hormones in 52 ambulatory and stable HF patients with EF < 50% on disease‐modifying therapy (mean age 63 ± 11 years, 29% female, mean LVEF 32 ± 9.6%) and compared them to 54 patients at elevated risk for HF (61 ± 12 years, 28% female) and 62 healthy controls (HC; 61 ± 13 years, 27% female). Main comparisons were performed using one‐way analysis of variance. Associations with biomarkers were studied with linear regression.

Results

HF patients showed a reduced free triiodothyronine (fT3)/free thyroxine (fT4) ratio compared to HC (0.30 ± 0.06 vs. 0.33 ± 0.05, p = 0.046). Parathyroid hormone (PTH) and cortisol were increased in HF compared to both HC (median [IQR] 59 [50–84] vs. 46 [37–52] ng/L, p < 0.001 and 497 ± 150 vs. 436 ± 108 nmol/L, p = 0.03, respectively) and patients at risk (both p < 0.001). Total testosterone was reduced in male HF compared to HC (14.4 ± 6.6 vs. 18.6 ± 5.3 nmol/L; p = 0.01). No differences in TSH, estradiol, progesterone, and prolactin were found. Lower fT3 levels were found in HF with EF < 40% versus EF 40%–49% (4.6 ± 0.3 vs. 5.2 ± 0.7 pmol/L, p = 0.009). In HF patients, fT3 was an independent predictor of NT‐proBNP and high‐sensitivity troponin T in multiple regression analysis. PTH was positively associated with NT‐proBNP.

Conclusion

There is evidence of endocrine hormonal imbalance in HF with reduced EF beyond principal neurohormones and despite the use of disease‐modifying therapy.
Facial palsy as a manifestation of COVID‐19: A systematic review of cases
Authors: Khurshid Aiman , Khurshid Maman , Sohail Aruba , Raza Imran Mansoor , Ahsan Muhammad Khubab , Alam Shah Mir Umer Farooq , Taseer Anab Rehan , Nashwan Abdulqadir J. , Ullah Irfan
Published: October 2022

Background and Aims

Facial palsy is a rare complication of the COVID‐19 infection. Herein, we conducted a systematic review of all published cases of facial palsy post‐COVID‐19 infection in an attempt to educate the general population and medical practitioners regarding the likely occurrence of facial palsy in COVID‐19 patients, its detection, effective treatment plan, and prognosis of the condition.

Methods

We searched PubMed, Google Scholar, and Directory of Open Access Journals (DOAJ) from December 1, 2019 to September 21, 2021.

Results

We included 49 studies bearing accounts of 75 cases who had facial palsy. The mean age of patients was 42.9 ± 19.59 years, with a male‐to‐female ratio of 8:7. The majority of the cases were reported from Brazil (n = 14), USA (n = 9), Turkey (n = 9), and Spain (n = 9). Noticeably, 30.14% of COVID‐19 patients were diagnosed with Guillain‐Barré syndrome. In total, 22.97% of patients complained of bilateral facial paralysis (n = 17), whereas ipsilateral paralysis was observed in 77.03% (n = 57). These were common complaints of Lagophthalmos, otalgia, facial drooping, dysarthria, and compromised forehead wrinkling. The treatment regimen mainly included the use of corticosteroids (n = 51) (69.86%), antivirals (n = 23) (31.51%), IVIG (n = 18) (24.66%), antibiotics (n = 13) (17.81%), antiretroviral (n = 9) (12.33%), and antimalarial (n = 8) (10.96%) medications. In all, 35.62% of patients (n = 26) adhered to a combination of antiviral and corticosteroid‐based therapy. Positive treatment outcomes were observed in 83.58% (n = 56) of cases. In contrast, 10 patients (14.93%) showed nonsignificant recovery, out of which 3 (4.48%) died from the disease.

Conclusion

The association of facial palsy with COVID‐19 is controversial and therefore requires further investigation and published work to confirm a causal relationship. However, physicians should not overlook the likelihood of facial palsy post‐COVID‐19 infection and treat it accordingly.
Blood cell DNA methylation biomarkers in preclinical malignant pleural mesothelioma: The EPIC prospective cohort
Authors: Allione Alessandra , Viberti Clara , Cotellessa Ilaria , Catalano Chiara , Casalone Elisabetta , Cugliari Giovanni , Russo Alessia , Guarrera Simonetta , Mirabelli Dario , Sacerdote Carlotta , Gentile Marco , Eichelmann Fabian , Schulze Matthias B. , Harlid Sophia , Eriksen Anne Kirstine , Tjønneland Anne , Andersson Martin , Dollé Martijn E.T. , Van Puyvelde Heleen , Weiderpass Elisabete , Rodriguez‐Barranco Miguel , Agudo Antonio , Heath Alicia K. , Chirlaque María‐Dolores , Truong Thérèse , Dragic Dzevka , Severi Gianluca , Sieri Sabina , Sandanger Torkjel M. , Ardanaz Eva , Vineis Paolo , Matullo Giuseppe
Published: October 2022

Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is a rare and aggressive cancer mainly caused by asbestos exposure. Specific and sensitive noninvasive biomarkers may facilitate and enhance screening programs for the early detection of cancer. We investigated DNA methylation (DNAm) profiles in MPM prediagnostic blood samples in a case‐control study nested in the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and nutrition (EPIC) cohort, aiming to characterise DNAm biomarkers associated with MPM. From the EPIC cohort, we included samples from 135 participants who developed MPM during 20 years of follow‐up and from 135 matched, cancer‐free, controls. For the discovery phase we selected EPIC participants who developed MPM within 5 years from enrolment (n = 36) with matched controls. We identified nine differentially methylated CpGs, selected by 10‐fold cross‐validation and correlation analyses: cg25755428 (MRI1), cg20389709 (KLF11), cg23870316, cg13862711 (LHX6), cg06417478 (HOOK2), cg00667948, cg01879420 (AMD1), cg25317025 (RPL17) and cg06205333 (RAP1A). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis showed that the model including baseline characteristics (age, sex and PC1wbc) along with the nine MPM‐related CpGs has a better predictive value for MPM occurrence than the baseline model alone, maintaining some performance also at more than 5 years before diagnosis (area under the curve [AUC] < 5 years = 0.89; AUC 5‐10 years = 0.80; AUC >10 years = 0.75; baseline AUC range = 0.63‐0.67). DNAm changes as noninvasive biomarkers in prediagnostic blood samples of MPM cases were investigated for the first time. Their application can improve the identification of asbestos‐exposed individuals at higher MPM risk to possibly adopt more intensive monitoring for early disease identification.
The use of a novel sensorized simulation platform for real‐time labor progression assessment
Authors: Mannella Paolo , Tognarelli Selene , Pancetti Federica , Morchi Laura , Menciassi Arianna , Simoncini Tommaso
Published: October 2022

Objective

To prove the potentialities of an integrated and sensorized childbirth platform as an innovative simulator for education of inexperienced gynecological and obstetrical medical students.

Methods

A total of 152 inexperienced medical students were recruited to a simulation program on labor progression evaluation. After an introductory lecture on basic concepts of labor and birth given by an expert gynecologist, three different gynecologic scenarios were simulated using both a traditional obstetric simulator and the innovative proposed platform, for a total of six tests for each student. A score was assigned for each performed scenario, based on its correctness. Self‐assessment questionnaires were compiled before and after the simulation program for additional subjective assessment.

Results

Median score of the simulations performed with our platform was significantly higher than that of the simulations performed with a traditional simulator, for all the three experimented scenarios (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

The use of a sensorized platform for labor progression allowed for an accurate and faster diagnosis if compared with a traditional simulator even for inexperienced operators, supporting its use in clinical training, which could be realistically introduced into the clinical practice for medical student education.
Factors associated with puerperal women's perception of the support received from their companions during labor and delivery
Authors: Sena Marcela Matias , Barros Maria Aline Rodrigues , Holanda Sâmia Monteiro , Aquino Priscila de Souza , Cardoso Alexandrina
Published: October 2022

Objective

The aim of the current study was to associate sociodemographic characteristics and satisfaction with the support received from companions during labor and delivery.

Method

An analytical cross‐sectional study was performed in a maternity hospital in Fortaleza, Brazil, from March to August 2019, with 320 postpartum women. A form containing sociodemographic and obstetric questions, companion‐related information, type of support provided, and the Birth Companion Support Questionnaire (BCSQ) were used to assess the frequency of social support behaviors. χ2 and Fisher exact tests were used for statistical analyses.

Results

Nonpharmacological methods were associated with an unsatisfactory perception of support, but the emotional support provided by companions was positively associated with women's satisfaction.

Conclusion

The findings of the current study concerning women's perceptions of the support received from their companions may allow improvements in the delivery of care to women in labor toward the humanization of obstetric practices.
A prospective study for gestational diabetes mellitus: Analysis of risk factors in Turkish women for early prediction
Authors: Kurt Burçin , Gürlek Beril , Keskin Seda , Kurt Tuğba , Kasap Zeliha Aydın , Kırkbir İlknur Buçan , Kart Cavit , Özdemir Sinem , Baki Neslihan , Ünsal Serbülent , Turhan Kemal
Published: October 2022

Objective

To define risk factors for the early prediction of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) because the risk of pre‐eclampsia and preterm birth increases in mothers who are diagnosed with GDM.

Materials and methods

A prospective study was designed and the data were collected by physicians prospectively from the patients who came to the clinic between the years 2019 and 2021; informed consent was obtained from the women. The prospective data comprised 489 patient records with 72 variables and the risk factors for early prediction of GDM were determined using logistic regression and random forest (RF), which is an advanced analysis method.

Results

The obtained sensitivity and specificity values are 90% and 75% for logistic regression and 71% and 90% for the RF, respectively.

Conclusion

In this prospective study of GDM in Turkish women; age, body mass index, level of hemoglobin A1c, level of fasting blood sugar, physical activity time in first trimester, gravidity, triglycerides, and high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol were confirmed to be risk factors in analysis results.
Response to Comment on “Feasibility of Raman spectroscopy as a potential in vivo tool to screen for pre‐diabetes and diabetes”
Authors: Guevara Edgar , Torres‐Galván Juan Carlos , González Francisco Javier , Luévano‐Contreras Claudia , Castillo‐Martínez Claudio Cayetano , Ramírez‐Elías Miguel G.
Published: October 2022

This letter aims to reply to Bratchenko and Bratchenko's comment on our paper “Feasibility of Raman spectroscopy as a potential in vivo tool to screen for pre‐diabetes and diabetes.” Our paper analyzed the feasibility of using in vivo Raman measurements combined with machine learning techniques to screen diabetic and prediabetic patients. We argued that this approach yields high overall accuracy (94.3%) while retaining a good capacity to distinguish between diabetic (area under the receiver‐operating curve [AUC] = 0.86) and control classes (AUC = 0.97) and a moderate performance for the prediabetic class (AUC = 0.76). Bratchenko and Bratchenko's comment focuses on the possible overestimation of the proposed classification models and the absence of information on the age of participants. In this reply, we address their main concerns regarding our previous manuscript.
Adiabatic theory for high Rydberg molecules
Authors: Chao Sheng D.
Published: October 2022

Molecules in high Rydberg states, or high Rydberg molecules, are special types of excited species. Classically, at least one of the valence electrons of such molecules is excited to a high‐energy near‐threshold orbit with a negative eccentricity. Therefore, the electron spends most of its orbiting time on roaming slowly far away from the parent ionic core. With this classical picture in mind, we develop a general adiabatic theory termed the inverse Born‐Oppenheimer approximation, in contrast to the conventional Born‐Oppenheimer adiabatic theory for molecules in ground or lower excited states, to describe high Rydberg molecules. A thorough theoretical formulation starting from the non‐relativistic molecular Hamiltonian and Schrödinger equation is presented with emphasis on the mathematical rigorousness of this theory. Quantitative calculations of the transition rate constants for many radiative and nonradiative processes involved in high Rydberg molecules are shown explicitly.
Identification of Cofilin‐1 as a novel biomarker of atopic dermatitis using iTRAQ quantitative proteomics
Authors: Zhou Xiaotao , Xiao Bo , Zeng Jiajia , Zhou Liying , Wang Xiaodong , Zhao Shangqi , Li Xiaobo , Zhang Huiqiu , Su Yanjun , Zhao Zhenyu , Li Xichuan
Published: October 2022

Background

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic relapsing inflammatory skin condition; however, little is known about the pathogenesis and serum biomarker of this disease.

Methods

Isobaric tagging for relative and absolute quantitation (iTRAQ) proteomic assay was adopted to identify and quantify the differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) in the serum of AD patients. Bioinformatic analysis, including GO, Reactome, GSEA, PPI, and ssGSEA analysis, were used to identified the enriched pathways, hub proteins and immune cells. The expression level and distribution of hub proteins were confirmed by ELISA and IHC.

Results

Sixty‐six DEPs were identified with iTRAQ proteomic assay by analyzing serum from AD patients and normal subjects. GO and Reactome analysis shown the alternated pathway were mainly involved in immunity, oxidative stress, and actin cytoskeleton. The GSEA and PPI network analysis among the DEPs were carried out and identified Cofilin‐1 and profilin‐1 as the core components of this network. Additionally, the disruption of Th1/Th2/Th17 cell balance and the significantly reducing of Treg, MDSC, and γδT cells was also found in AD patients using the ssGSEA analysis. Further ELISA and IHC assay validated the significantly elevated expression of Cofilin‐1 in AD patients.

Conclusion

Our results suggested that Cofilin‐1 may serve as a novel biomarker for AD diagnosis.
Investigating recovery from problem substance use using digital photovoice
Authors: Smith Emma , Carter Melody , Walklet Elaine , Hazell Paul
Published: October 2022

This study investigates the complex process of recovery from problem substance use using a visual research method known as ‘Photovoice’. Seven service users from a harm reduction drug service were given digital cameras and asked to photograph ‘people, places, and things’ meaningful to them in their recovery. These photographs were then used as a catalyst for discussion during two in‐depth interviews. This study demonstrates the nuanced experiences of recovery as some participants expressed feeling isolated while others reflected upon their access to various forms of social capital. These findings recognise the link between social capital and recovery outcomes, while also reflecting upon how services might imbed the need for relationship quality within artificial recovery networks. The use of photographs is a novel way of providing voice to the lived experience of service users and adds to the discussion and debate concerning how recovery services may develop.
A novel synthetic approach to Pyrazolooxazines. One‐pot synthesis of Pyrazolo[5,1‐c][1,4]oxazine derivatives from 2,2‐dichlorovinylacetophenones
Authors: Guirado Antonio , Martiz Bruno , Vera María , Andreu Raquel , Bautista Delia
Published: October 2022

New convenient synthetic methods in pyrazoline and pyrazolooxazine chemistry have been developed starting from 2,2‐dichlorovinylacetophenones 4, whose reaction with 2‐hydroxyethylhydrazine directly gave hitherto unknown 3‐aryl‐5‐dichloromethyl‐1‐(2‐hydroxiethyl)‐2‐pyrazolines 7 in high yields. These were found to be able to undergo cyclization to afford 2‐aryl‐6,7‐dihydro‐4H‐pyrazolo[5,1‐c][1,4]oxazines 10 upon treatment with sodium hydride. Compounds 10 could also easily be obtained in near quantitative yields by a one‐pot preparative process involving reaction of compounds 4 with 2‐hydroxyethylhydrazine followed by addition of sodium hydroxide. The simplicity and the high yield of this reaction make it much more attractive than the previously described multistep procedure. The molecular structure of 2‐(4‐chlorophenyl)‐6,7‐dihydro‐4H‐pyrazolo[5,1‐c][1,4]oxazine 10c was determined by x‐ray crystallography.
Examining provincial PrEP coverage and characterizing PrEP awareness and use among gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men in Vancouver, Toronto and Montreal, 2017–2020
Authors: Sang Jordan M. , McAllister Kate , Wang Lu , Barath Justin , Lal Allan , Parlette Abbie , Noor Syed W. , Apelian Herak , Skakoon‐Sparling Shayna , Hull Mark , Moore David M. , Cox Joseph , Hart Trevor A. , Lambert Gilles , Grace Daniel , Jollimore Jody , Hogg Robert S. , Lachowsky Nathan J.
Published: October 2022

Introduction

Accessibility of pre‐exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) in Canada remains complex as publicly funded coverage and delivery differs by province. In January 2018, PrEP became publicly funded and free of charge in British Columbia (BC), whereas PrEP coverage in Ontario and Montreal is more limited and may require out‐of‐pocket costs. We examined differences over time in PrEP uptake and assessed factors associated with PrEP awareness and use.

Methods

Gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men (GBM) were recruited through respondent‐driven sampling (RDS) in Toronto, Vancouver and Montreal, Canada, in a prospective biobehavioural cohort study. We applied generalized estimating equations with hierarchical data (RDS chain, participant, visit) to examine temporal trends of PrEP use and correlates of PrEP awareness and use from 2017 to 2020 among self‐reported HIV‐negative/unknown GBM.

Results

Of 2008 self‐identified HIV‐negative/unknown GBM at baseline, 5093 study visits were completed from February 2017 to March 2020. At baseline, overall PrEP awareness was 88% and overall PrEP use was 22.5%. During our study period, we found PrEP use increased in all cities (all p<0.001): Montreal 14.2% during the first time period to 39.3% during the last time period (p<0.001), Toronto 21.4–31.4% (p<0.001) and Vancouver 21.7–59.5% (p<0.001). Across the study period, more Vancouver GBM used PrEP than Montreal GBM (aOR = 2.05, 95% CI = 1.60–2.63), with no significant difference between Toronto and Montreal GBM (aOR = 0.90, 95% CI = 0.68–1.18).

Conclusions

Full free‐of‐charge public funding for PrEP in BC likely contributed to differences in PrEP awareness and use. Increasing public funding for PrEP will improve accessibility and uptake among GBM most at risk of HIV.