bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thermal conductivity and conductance of protein in aqueous solution: Effects of geometrical shape
Authors: Kurisaki Ikuo , Tanaka Seiya , Mori Ichiro , Umegaki Toshihito , Mori Yoshiharu , Tanaka Shigenori
Published: December 2022

Considering the importance of elucidating the heat transfer in living cells, we evaluated the thermal conductivity κ and conductance G of hydrated protein through all‐atom non‐equilibrium molecular dynamics simulation. Extending the computational scheme developed in earlier studies for spherical protein to cylindrical one under the periodic boundary condition, we enabled the theoretical analysis of anisotropic thermal conduction and also discussed the effects of protein size correction on the calculated results. While the present results for myoglobin and green fluorescent protein (GFP) by the spherical model were in fair agreement with previous computational and experimental results, we found that the evaluations for κ and G by the cylindrical model, in particular, those for the longitudinal direction of GFP, were enhanced substantially, but still keeping a consistency with experimental data. We also studied the influence by salt addition of physiological concentration, finding insignificant alteration of thermal conduction of protein in the present case.
Echocardiographic features and outcome of restrictive foramen ovale in fetuses with and without cardiac malformations: Literature review
Authors: Vena Flaminia , Bartolone Martina , D'Alberti Elena , Vasta Adele , Mazza Alessandra , D'Ambrosio Valentina , Di Mascio Daniele , Sulce Blerta , Pajno Cristina , Brunelli Roberto , Pizzuti Antonio , Giancotti Antonella
Published: December 2022

Foramen ovale is a small communication between the left and the right atrium and its restriction is a rare congenital heart anomaly. There is no consensus on diagnosis and management of fetal restrictive foramen ovale (RFO). In our paper we included 11 studies about fetuses affected by isolated RFO, RFO with D‐Transposition of the Great Arteries (dTGA) and RFO with hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS). While fetuses affected from HLHS and dTGA with RFO have a poor prognosis, premature RFO in an otherwise structurally normal heart, if found in later gestation, have an overall good outcome.
Biosynthetic neoantigen displayed on bacteria derived vesicles elicit systemic antitumour immunity
Authors: Meng Fanqiang , Li Liyan , Zhang Zhirang , Lin Zhongda , Zhang Jinxie , Song Xiao , Xue Tianyuan , Xing Chenyang , Liang Xin , Zhang Xudong
Published: December 2022

Neoantigens derived from mutant proteins in tumour cells could elicit potent personalized anti‐tumour immunity. Nevertheless, the layout of vaccine vehicle and synthesis of neoantigen are pivotal for stimulating robust response. The power of synthetic biology enables genetic programming bacteria to produce therapeutic agents under contol of the gene circuits. Herein, we genetically engineered bacteria to synthesize fusion neoantigens, and prepared bacteria derived vesicles (BDVs) presenting the neoantigens (BDVs‐Neo) as personalized therapeutic vaccine to drive systemic antitumour response. BDVs‐Neo and granulocyte‐macrophage colony‐stimulating factor (GM‐CSF) were inoculated subcutaneously within hydrogel (Gel), whereas sustaining release of BDVs‐Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and GM‐CSF recruited the dendritic cells (DCs). Virtually, Gel‐BDVs‐Neo combined with the programmed cell death protein 1 (PD‐1) antibody intensively enhanced proliferation and activation of tumour‐infiltrated T cells, as well as memory T cell clone expansion. Consequently, BDVs‐Neo combining with checkpoint blockade therapy effectively prevented tumour relapse and metastasis.
The “new” oligometastatic disease state and associated therapies in non‐small cell lung cancer: A narrative review
Authors: Na Kwon J. , Kim Young T.
Published: December 2022

Patients with non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) at stage IV have typically been considered incurable. Nonetheless, there is growing evidence that certain patient groups with fewer metastases, or so‐called oligometastatic disease, which may have a more indolent biological nature than widespread metastatic diseases, may survive longer if definitive local treatment is administered to all metastatic sites. According to several retrospective investigations, this subgroup had a better prognosis than other stage IV patients, and the eighth edition of TNM staging was revised to reflect these findings. As a result of rapidly emerging systemic therapies, such as immune checkpoint inhibitors and a growing number of targeted therapies, more patients with this uncommon clinical opportunity have been identified and have received greater clinical attention. Currently, there is no established protocol for the management of oligometastatic disease, and the majority of therapeutic decisions are made through multidisciplinary discussion. In addition to systemic treatment, the two primary local therapeutic options for oligometastatic diseases are surgery and radiotherapy. A few phase 2 trials suggest that aggressive local ablative therapy may significantly improve the prognosis of patients with oligometastatic NSCLC. This review summarizes the most recent data on the management of oligometastatic NSCLC, with a focus on the prognostic significance of local ablative therapy in these patients.
Does environmental regulation affect firms' ESG performance? Evidence from China
Authors: Lu Shiyu , Cheng Bo
Published: December 2022

Taking the advantage of the revise “Environmental Protection Law” implemented in China as an exogenous shock event, we evaluate the impact of environmental regulation on firms' ESG performance by the difference‐in‐difference approach. We find that this policy improves state‐owned firms' ESG performance. Additionally, our results demonstrate that better ESG performance encourages firms' stock liquidity, and the stock liquidity of state‐owned firms with high ESG performance is stronger than that of private firms after the policy. These findings highlight the importance of environmental regulation, which provide significant meanings for encouraging firms' social responsibility, formulating ESG related policies, and promoting sustainable development.
A rare case of dysferlinopathy with paternal isodisomy for chromosome 2 determined by exome sequencing
Authors: Li Huan , Wang Liang , Zhang Cheng
Published: December 2022

Background

Dysferlinopathies are autosomal recessive muscular dystrophies resulting from defects in DYSF (MIM: 603009), which is located on chromosome 2p13 and encodes the dysferlin protein.

Methods

We performed exome sequencing and subsequent trio‐based analysis in a family with dysferlinopathy.

Results

We report a young patient presenting with hyperCKemia and mild muscle weakness of the lower limbs. Exome sequencing of the proband revealed a homozygous frameshift mutation, NM_001130987.2:c.1471dupA(p.M491Nfs*15), in DYSF. The father was heterozygous for the mutation and the mother did not carry the mutation, as determined by genetic analyses, exome sequencing of parental samples, and a trio‐based analysis. Further analysis revealed that the DYSF gene was not deleted; instead, the entire chromosome 2 of the proband was inherited from the father. Thus, the child had paternal uniparental isodisomy for chromosome 2 (uniparental disomy [UPD]2 pat).

Conclusion

We report the first case of dysferlinopathy caused by paternal isodisomy for chromosome 2. Furthermore, our findings highlight the importance of exome sequencing of the proband and parents and trio analyses in clinical settings, particularly when Mendelian inheritance cannot be confirmed, to identify the presence of UPD and to rule out large pathogenic deletions.
Perforator‐based chimeric anterolateral thigh flap U‐shaped insetting for total pharyngoesophageal reconstruction: Surgical technique and functional outcomes
Authors: Salzillo Rosa , Boriani Filippo , Carta Filippo , Tatti Melania , Atzeni Matteo , Persichetti Paolo , Haywood Richard M. , Puxeddu Roberto , Figus Andrea
Published: December 2022

Background

Pharyngoesophageal reconstruction with the tubed anterolateral thigh (ALT) flap is burdened by possible strictures and pharyngocutaneous fistulae (PCF). We present our experience with the U‐shaped insetting of perforator‐based chimeric ALT flap focusing on surgical technique, complications and functional outcomes.

Methods

We retrospectively included 10 patients with a total circumferential defect of the hypopharynx undergoing reconstruction with ALT flap. A perforator‐based chimeric ALT flap with two independent skin paddles was harvested: the trapezoid paddle with the greater base cranially and the height oriented vertically was used for pharyngoesophageal reconstruction while the second paddle was exteriorized and used for flap monitoring and reducing tension on skin closure.

Mean age was 56.4 years. Eight patients were affected by squamous cell carcinoma. Modified barium swallow radiogram and fiberoptic laryngoscopy were performed to assess strictures and PCFs. Swallowing and speech outcomes were evaluated through the Deglutition Handicap Index (DHI), M.D. Anderson Dysphagia Inventory (MDADI) and Voice Handicap Index (VHI) questionnaires.

Results

Mean flap dimension was 7.9 × 6 × 9.2 cm. Mean ischemia time was 58.2 min (range 42–80). No flap loss nor flap‐related complications were reported. Two PCFs were observed. Fiberoptic laryngoscopy documented a complete integration of the flap with no strictures or stenosis. Mean follow‐up was 13.6 months (range 1–45 months). Mean DHI score was 33.8, mean MDADI score was 62.5, mean VHI score was 32.2.

Conclusions

The ALT flap U‐shaped insetting is a reliable option for pharyngoesophageal reconstruction yielding a high success rate, low number of strictures and fistulae and good swallowing and voice outcomes.
Local existence, global existence and decay results of a logarithmic wave equation with delay term
Authors: Yüksekkaya Hazal , Pişkin Erhan
Published: December 2022

In this article, we deal with a logarithmic wave equation with strong damping and delay. Firstly, we prove the local existence by utilizing the semigroup theory. Later, we obtain the global existence of solutions by using the well‐depth method. Moreover, under appropriate assumptions on the weight of the delay and that of strong damping, we get the exponential decay.
Alpha dose modeling in diffusing alpha‐emitters radiation therapy—Part I: single‐seed calculations in one and two dimensions
Authors: Heger Guy , Roy Arindam , Dumančić Mirta , Arazi Lior
Published: December 2022

Background

Diffusing alpha‐emitters Radiation Therapy (“DaRT”) is a new method, presently in clinical trials, which allows treating solid tumors by alpha particles. DaRT relies on interstitial seeds carrying μCi‐level 224Ra activity below their surface, which release a chain of short‐lived alpha emitters that spread throughout the tumor volume primarily by diffusion. Alpha dose calculations in DaRT are based on describing the transport of alpha emitting atoms, requiring new modeling techniques.

Purpose

A previous study introduced a simplified framework, the “Diffusion‐Leakage (DL) model”, for DaRT alpha dose calculations, and employed it to a point source, as a basic building block of arbitrary configurations of line sources. The aim of this work, which is divided into two parts, is to extend the model to realistic seed geometries (in Part I), and to employ single‐seed calculations to study the properties of DaRT seed lattices (Part II). Such calculations can serve as a pragmatic guide for treatment planning in future clinical trials.

Methods

We derive a closed‐form asymptotic solution for an infinitely long cylindrical source, and extend it to an approximate time‐dependent expression that assumes a uniform temporal profile at all radial distances from the source. We then develop a finite‐element one‐dimensional numerical scheme for a complete time‐dependent solution of this geometry and validate it against the closed‐form expressions. Finally, we discuss a two‐dimensional axisymmetric scheme for a complete time‐dependent solution for a seed of finite diameter and length. Different solutions are compared over the relevant parameter space, providing guidelines on their usability and limitations.

Results

We show that approximating the seed as a finite line source comprised of point‐like segments significantly underestimates the correct alpha dose, as predicted by the full two‐dimensional calculation. The time‐dependent one‐dimensional solution is shown to coincide to sub‐percent‐level with the two‐dimensional calculation in the seed midplane, and maintains an accuracy of a few percent up to ∼2 mm from the seed edge.

Conclusions

For actual treatment plans, the full two‐dimensional solution should be used to generate dose lookup tables, similarly to the TG‐43 format employed in conventional brachytherapy. Given the accuracy of the one‐dimensional solution up to ∼2 mm from the seed edge it can be used for efficient parametric studies of DaRT seed lattices.
Fast measurement of the gradient system transfer function at 7 T
Authors: Scholten Hannah , Lohr David , Wech Tobias , Köstler Herbert
Published: December 2022

Purpose

In this work, a new method to determine the gradient system transfer function (GSTF) with high frequency resolution and high SNR is presented, using fast and simple phantom measurements. The GSTF is an effective instrument for hardware characterization and calibration, which can be used to correct for gradient distortions, or enhance gradient fidelity.

Methods

The thin‐slice approach for phantom‐based measurements of the GSTF is expanded by adding excitations that are shifted after the application of the probing gradient, to capture long‐lasting field fluctuations with high SNR. A physics‐informed regularization procedure is implemented to derive high‐quality transfer functions from a small number of measurements. The resulting GSTFs are evaluated by means of gradient time‐course estimation and pre‐emphasis of a trapezoidal test gradient on a 7T scanner.

Results

The GSTFs determined with the proposed method capture sharp mechanical resonances with a high level of detail. The measured trapezoidal gradient progressions are authentically reproduced by the GSTF estimations on all three axes. The GSTF‐based pre‐emphasis considerably improves the gradient fidelity in the plateau phase of the test gradient and almost completely eliminates lingering field oscillations.

Conclusion

The presented approach allows fast and simple characterization of gradient field fluctuations caused by long‐living eddy current and vibration effects, which become more pronounced at ultrahigh field strengths.
Clinical factors influencing knowledge and self‐care practice among adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Afaya Richard Adongo , Bam Victoria , Lomotey Alberta Yemotsoo , Afaya Agani
Published: December 2022

Aim

The objective of the study was to determine the clinical factors associated with knowledge and self‐care practice among adults living with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Design

Descriptive cross‐sectional design.

Methods

A convenience sample of 330 participants was recruited over 3‐months in 2018 and data were collected using a structured instrument.

Results

Participants on insulin treatment modality had four times higher odds of knowledge on diabetes (B = 4.17, p = 0.023) while those on combined therapy (both oral hypoglycaemic agent and insulin) had 7.26 times higher odds of knowledge (B = 7.26, p < 0.001). Participants without medically confirmed diabetic complications had 3.66 higher odds of knowledge of diabetes (B = 3.66, p = 0.002). Participants on insulin treatment modality had a 1.4‐fold higher odds of self‐care practice (B = 1.4, p = 0.028). It was revealed that participants with hypertension and diabetic foot had lower odds of self‐care practice (B = −1.13, p = 0.021).

Conclusion

In particular, participants who were on insulin and combined therapy (tablet and insulin) had higher knowledge and better self‐care practice. Self‐care was significantly influenced among those with, than those without diabetic foot and hypertension as complications.
Investigation of bending performance of printed continuous carbon fiber reinforced polylactic acid using acoustic emission
Authors: Wu Siyuan , Shan Zhongde , Chen Ken , Wu Xiaochuan , Zou Dongming , Wang Shaozong , Xiong Jingyun
Published: December 2022

In this study, rectangular beams were fabricated by 3D printed continuous carbon fiber reinforced polylactic acid. The effects of deposited space and layer thickness on bending performance are investigated, and the failure modes are analyzed accordingly. At the same time, the acoustic emission technology was applied to test the damage process to facilitate a more in‐depth study compared with related studies, and the principal component analysis method and kmeans++ algorithm were applied to analyze the test signal. The results show that the bending strength and modulus of the printed composites decrease correspondingly with the increase of the layer thickness in the range of layer height of 0.7, 0.8, and 0.9 mm. When the fused deposited space is between 0.6 and 0.8 mm, with the increase of the deposited space, the bending strength and modulus also decrease correspondingly. By using principal component analysis, the test signal could be represented by three principal components, and by applying kmeans++ cluster algorithm analysis, the three principal component are divided into five clusters, which correspond to the material failure mode of matrix cracking, interlayer delamination, fiber, and resin debonding, fiber cracking, and fiber fracture. As a result, the bending failure process can be effectively analyzed in detail with the clustering results.
Supporting people with type 2 diabetes who need insulin
Authors: Winkley Kirsty
Published: December 2022

The year 2022 marks 100 years since the first person with diabetes received an insulin injection and supporting people with insulin self‐management is a core role for diabetes nurses. Janet Kinson was a diabetes nurse and author. She developed the first diabetes education programme for nurses and the topic of insulin was central to the curriculum. This article will honour the contribution she made by focusing on diabetes education for people with type 2 diabetes who need insulin. It will start by tracing why and when people with type 2 diabetes should start insulin treatment followed by an exploration of the barriers to starting insulin at the level of the individual, the health care professional and the health system. We know that around 50% of people with type 2 diabetes delay starting insulin for seven years when it is clinically indicated. We also know that around a third of people with type 2 diabetes who are insulin treated remain hyperglycaemic or experience frequent hypoglycaemia. Therefore, there is a need for interventions that address delay, optimise starting insulin as well as consider how we best support people with type 2 diabetes to persist with and intensify their insulin over the diabetes journey. This article presents the current literature on interventions to support people with type 2 diabetes with insulin and identify gaps in support that may be addressed in future research. Copyright © 2022 John Wiley & Sons..
Prediabetes screening, treatment, and follow‐up in primary health care: a cross‐sectional survey
Authors: Harcke Katri , Graue Marit , Skinner Timothy Charles , Olsson Christina B , Stattin Nouha Saleh
Published: December 2022

Aim: This study aimed to describe routines for screening, treatment, and follow‐up for prediabetes at primary health care centres in Region Stockholm, Sweden.

Methods: The study had a cross‐sectional design. We sent a questionnaire about prediabetes screening, treatment, and follow‐up to diabetes nurses working at primary health care centres in Region Stockholm. Data collection started in October 2019 and ended in June 2021.

Results: A total of 84 of the 224 centres that received an invitation responded (37.5%). Routines for screening, treatment, and follow‐up varied widely. This variation meant that people with prediabetes received different care, and the care depended on clinical practice routines at the primary health care centre they attended.

Conclusions: A first step toward more consistent, adequate and equitable care should involve developing national and regional guidelines that include a clear and systematic approach to prediabetes screening, treatment and follow‐up. Sufficient funding and human resources will be crucial to implementing these guidelines in primary care to help prevent type 2 diabetes and its complications. Copyright © 2022 John Wiley & Sons.
Feedback between radiation and transport in photovoltaics
Authors: Irvin Nicholas P. , Babcock Sean J. , Chen Eric Y. , King Richard R. , Honsberg Christiana B.
Published: December 2022

By building on the generalized Hovel model, this work develops an analytical solution to unify photon recycling, light trapping, and carrier transport in solar cells. Enhanced transport due to photon recycling diffusion is considered. While photon recycling diffusion is often negligible, it can significantly support transport in cases where charge diffusion is low but radiative efficiency is high. Next, the diffusion equation is solved to determine carrier collection for planar and textured cells. Results elucidate novel features in the external quantum efficiency (EQE) curve that occur for textured cells with high absorption and limited transport. Then, the effect of limited transport on the radiative recombination of solar cells is investigated in detail. While the traditional treatment of detailed balance uses the applied voltage to calculate a cell's radiative recombination, the present approach uses the spatially resolved quasi‐Fermi‐level splitting (QFLS). The discrepancy between the models is shown to be inconsequential to performance for cells with low radiative recombination (Si) or with high mobilities (lowly doped GaAs). However, for cells with high radiative recombination and low mobility (highly doped GaAs, polycrystalline CdTe, and thin‐film perovskites), incorporating variation in QFLS in the determination of radiative recombination can become necessary for accurate photovoltaic modeling.
Can Social Movements Save American Democracy? A Review Article
Authors: Lieberman Robert C
Published: December 2022

Recent scholarship on the fragility of American democracy has generally focused on political elites rather than the mass public. Sidney Tarrow's Movements and Parties offers an essential corrective to this view. Tarrow shows how that social movements have been central to historical patterns of democratization and democratic backsliding in American history and how movements have systematically interacted with political parties in ways that have profoundly shaped the American democratic experiment. Tarrow's historical survey reveals a recurring pattern of movements that often make tactical alliances with political parties and then provoke countermovements, and he elucidates the underappreciated importance of this pattern for American political development and the path of democratization and de-democratization in the United States.
Global Breast Cancer Initiative: A platform to address the psycho‐oncology of cancer in low‐ and middle‐income countries for improving global breast cancer outcomes
Authors: Bergerot Cristiane Decat , Dizon Don S. , Ilbawi Andre M. , Anderson Benjamin O.
Published: December 2022

Background

Psycho‐oncology is a clinical specialty in which the humanistic aspects of cancer diagnoses and treatment are addressed to reduce the psychological burden for patients and their caregivers to optimize patient participation, cancer outcomes and quality‐of‐life, which is especially critical in cultures where cancer is perceived as invariably fatal. Psycho‐oncology programs face multiple barriers in low‐ and middle‐income countries, including limited resource allocation and lack of training, both of which have been impediments to psycho‐oncology programs becoming recognized as core competencies in cancer management and part of a standard medical curriculum.

Purpose

This paper discusses the role of the Global Breast Cancer Initiative (GBCI) in helping to overcome inequities in breast cancer care and improve clinical outcomes from a psycho‐oncology perspective as a model for improved cancer care in limited resource settings.

Findings

GBCI applies a comprehensive framework encompassing all phases of cancer care (defined through three pillars spanning the continuum of cancer management) and includes addressing the physical, psychological, and social needs of women throughout the life‐course. Efforts to promote policies that increase access to early detection and treatment programs and improve health literacy among the public are important strategies to mitigate the most common emotional and physical challenges reported by people with cancer accessing care.

Conclusions

Future efforts will focus on the integration of culturally appropriate guidance to promote early cancer detection and treatment completion through training programs for clinicians to establish core competencies in psycho‐oncology. Emerging advocacy efforts in the oncology arena may help guide the integration of psycho‐oncology services into routine care in countries where these services are not already integrated into the standard curriculum.
Charge distribution in turbulent flow of charged liquid—Modeling and experimental validation
Authors: Ratschow Aaron D. , Stein Sigrun , Gross Hans‐Jürgen
Published: December 2022

Electric discharges due to the flow of charged organic liquids are a common ignition source for explosions in the chemical and process industry. Prevention of incidents requires knowledge of electric fields above the surface of charged liquids. Quantitative methods often estimate electric fields based on simplifying assumptions like homogeneous volumetric charge distribution and neglect of surface charge. More detailed electrohydrodynamic (EHD) models are only available for laminar flow regimes. This work presents a model for forced turbulent EHD flows of dielectric liquids based on Reynolds‐averaged Navier–Stokes equations that predicts the electric field in the gas phase in good agreement with our experiments. We observe diminishing surface charge accumulation at the liquid surface with increasing flow velocities and thereby unify seemingly contradictory previous findings regarding the relevance of surface charge. The model can efficiently be applied to various industrial flow configurations and provide a central tool in preventing electrostatic hazards.
Reinforcing folding board boxes by printing a PLA patterned grid on their panels: A new approach for lightweighting stiff packaging
Authors: Bonnet Nicolas , Viguié Jérémie , Beneventi Davide , Chaussy Didier
Published: December 2022

The potential of printing stiffeners of polylactic acid (PLA) by fused deposition modelling (FDM) on the panels of folding board boxes was investigated in view of reducing the board weight while maintaining the box resistance to vertical compression. Cyclic loading and unloading compression tests were performed under standard (50% relative humidity [RH]) and humid (85% RH) environmental conditions on boxes printed with different grid patterns. By only adding 7% in weight of PLA to the whole packaging, the performance was improved by 29% under standard conditions and 60% under humid conditions when the inner surface of box panels was printed with an orthogonal‐type grid. A comparison with a higher basis weight folding board suggested that 30% of raw materials could be saved. Results suggested that the grid mainly improved the stiffness of panels and could delay their buckling and thus the box collapse.
Enhancing Tungsten Oxide Gasochromism with Noble Metal Nanoparticles: The Importance of the Interface
Authors: Longato Alessandro , Vanzan Mirko , Colusso Elena , Corni Stefano , Martucci Alessandro
Published: December 2022

Crystalline tungsten trioxide (WO3) thin films covered by noble metal (gold and platinum) nanoparticles are synthesized via wet chemistry and used as optical sensors for gaseous hydrogen. Sensing performances are strongly influenced by the catalyst used, with platinum (Pt) resulting as best. Surprisingly, it is found that gold (Au) can provide remarkable sensing activity that tuned out to be strongly dependent on the nanoparticle size: devices sensitized with smaller nanoparticles display better H2 sensing performance. Computational insight based on density functional theory calculations suggested that this can be related to processes occurring specifically at the Au nanoparticle‐WO3 interface (whose extent is in fact dependent on the nanoparticle size), where the hydrogen dissociative adsorption turns out to be possible. While both experiments and calculations single out Pt as better than Au for sensing, the present work reveals how an exquisitely nanoscopic effect can yield unexpected sensing performance for Au on WO3, and how these performances can be tuned by controlling the nanoscale features of the system.
One‐Pot Synthesis of Bi2S3/TiO2/rGO Heterostructure with Red Light‐Driven Photovoltaic Effect for Remote Electrotherapy‐Assisted Wound Repair
Authors: Qiao Zi , Ding Jie , Wu Chengheng , Zhou Ting , Wu Kai , Zhang Yusheng , Xiao Zhanwen , Wei Dan , Sun Jing , Fan Hongsong
Published: December 2022

The past decades have witnessed the rational design of novel functional nanomaterials and the potential to revolutionize many applications. With the increasing focus on electronic biological processes, novel photovoltaic nanomaterials are highly expectable for empowering new therapeutic strategies such as establishing a link between endogenous electric field (EEF) and electrotherapy. Compared to traditional invasive stimulation, the light‐initiating strategy has the advantages of non‐invasion, non‐power supply, and precise controllability. Whereas, common photoactivated materials require short‐wavelength light excitation accompanied by poor tissue penetration and biohazard. Herein, by the construction of p‐n heterostructured Bi2S3/TiO2/rGO (BTG) nanoparticles, broadener light absorption and higher light conversion than regular UV excitation are realized. Simultaneously, the photoelectric performance of BTG heterostructure, as well as the synergistic effect of Bi2S3 morphology, are revealed. Besides, the rationally designed biomimetic hydrogel matrix consisting of collagen and hyaluronic acid provides appropriate bioactivity, interface adhesion, mechanical matching, and electron transfer. Therefore, the photovoltaic BTG‐loaded matrix provides a platform of light‐driven electrical stimulation, coupling the EEF to modulate the electrophysiological and regeneration microenvironment. The implementation of photoelectric stimulation holds broad prospects for non‐drug therapy and electrical‐related biological process modulation including osseointegration, nerve regeneration, electronic skin, and wound healing.
Versatile Mechanochromic Sensor based on Highly Stretchable Chiral Liquid Crystalline Elastomer
Authors: Han Woong Chan , Lee Young‐Joo , Kim Se‐Um , Lee Hye Joo , Kim Young‐Seok , Kim Dae Seok
Published: December 2022

A mechanochromic strain sensor that is capable of distinguishing the orientation, the location, and the degree of deformation based on the highly stretchable membrane of main‐chain chiral liquid crystalline elastomer (MCLCE) is proposed. The MCLCE film is designed to exhibit uniform and significant color shift upon the small strain by using step‐growth polymerization of liquid crystal (LC) oligomer and its phase‐stabilization in solvent mesogen. As conformally placed on the bottom elastomer sheet, the MCLCE film shows multimodal, instantaneous color change for sensing arbitrary in‐plane deformation, out‐of‐plane bending, and nonzero Gaussian deformation. Based on high freedom in the device design, it is also demonstrated that this sensor can display color patterns or encrypted images in response to the localized weight or strain. The simple and straightforward concept proposed here can be applicable in the fields of wearable devices, displays, and soft robotics.
Dietary calcium and magnesium intake and risk for incident dementia: The Shanghai Aging Study
Authors: Luo Jianfeng , Zhang Chenbo , Zhao Qianhua , Wu Wanqing , Liang Xiaoniu , Xiao Zhenxu , Mortimer James A. , Borenstein Amy R. , Dai Qi , Ding Ding
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), or the calcium to magnesium (Ca:Mg) ratio may affect the risk of dementia via complex mechanisms. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association of dietary Ca, Mg, and Ca:Mg ratio with dementia risk at the prospective phase of the Shanghai Aging Study.

Methods

We analyzed data from 1565 dementia‐free participants living in an urban community who had measurements of dietary Ca and Mg intake derived from a food frequency questionnaire at baseline and incident dementia during follow‐up.

Results

Over the 5‐year follow‐up, 162 (10.4%) participants were diagnosed with incident dementia by Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4th edition criteria. Participants with the lowest tertile of dietary Ca (<339.1 mg/day) and Mg (<202.1 mg/day) had the highest incidence rates of dementia (3.3/100 person‐years for Ca, 3.3/100 person‐years for Mg) compared to those with higher Ca and Mg intake. In the subgroup with Ca:Mg ratios ≤ 1.69, Mg intake >267.5 mg/day was related to an increased risk for dementia (adjusted hazard ratio: 3.97, 95% confidence interval: 1.29–12.25).

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that high dietary intake of Mg is associated with an increased risk of dementia mainly among older adults with low Ca:Mg intake ratios. Proper balance of Ca to Mg in the diet may be critical to the relationship between Mg intake and risk of dementia.

Highlights

Participants with the lowest tertile of dietary calcium (Ca) and magnesium (Mg) had the highest incidence rates of dementia.

In the subgroup with Ca:Mg ratios ≤1.69, Mg intake >267.5 mg/day was related to an increased risk for dementia.

Balance of Ca to Mg in diet may be critical to the relationship between Mg intake and risk of dementia.
Atypicality index: avoiding false reassurance in prenatal screening
Authors: Kristensen S. E. , Gadsbøll K. , Nicolaides K. H. , Vogel I. , Pedersen L. H. , Wright A. , Petersen O. B. , Wright D.
Published: December 2022

Objective

To demonstrate the application of the atypicality index as an adjunct to first‐trimester risk assessment for major trisomies by the combined test.

Methods

This was a study of 123 998 Danish women with a singleton pregnancy who underwent routine first‐trimester screening, including risk assessment for major trisomies. An atypicality index, which is a measure of the degree to which a profile is atypical, was produced for measurements of fetal nuchal translucency thickness and maternal serum free β‐human chorionic gonadotropin and pregnancy‐associated plasma protein‐A. The incidence of adverse pregnancy outcome, including miscarriage, intrauterine death and termination of pregnancy, was tabulated according to the screening result and atypicality index.

Results

In pregnancies with low risk and those with high risk for major trisomies according to the combined screening test, the incidence of adverse pregnancy outcome increased with increasing atypicality index. In pregnancies with a low risk for trisomies and atypicality index of ≥ 99%, the incidence of adverse outcome was 5.1 (95% CI, 3.4–7.6) times higher compared with that in low‐risk pregnancies with a typical measurement profile, reflected by an atypicality index of < 80%. Similarly, in high‐risk pregnancies, the incidence of adverse outcome was 7.9 (95% CI, 4.4–14.5) times higher in those with an atypicality index of ≥ 99% compared to those with an atypicality index of < 80%. Using individual profile plots, we were able to demonstrate a transparent and intuitive method for visualization of multiple variables, which can help interpret the individual combination of measurements and level of atypicality.

Conclusions

In pregnancies undergoing first‐trimester combined screening and classified as being at low risk for major trisomies, profiles that are typical of pregnancies with normal outcome provide additional reassurance, whereas those with an atypical profile may warrant further investigation. © 2022 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
Six complex microbial inoculants for removing ammonia nitrogen from waters
Authors: Sun Chunmeng , Li Cong , Zhang Kai , Ma Xingmao , Zhang Yunshu
Published: December 2022

To determine the effect of microbial inoculants on the removal of ammonia nitrogen (NH4+‐N), six different complex microbial inoculants were studied. In this study, their effectiveness on NH4+‐N removal was compared, and their microbial community composition was determined. High‐throughput sequencing results showed that Proteobacteria and Firmicutes were the dominant phyla in six samples. Before the reaction, Bacillus, Cyanobacteria, and Mitochondria genera were the dominant genera. The dominant genera were significantly different after the reaction with the addition of bacterial agents. The six water samples were Massilia, Escherichia‐Shigella, Brevibacillus, Mitsuaria, Bacillus, and Ralstonia. Among the six complex microbial inoculants, “Gandu nitrifying bacteria (NR4)” have the best removal effect on NH4+‐N. In addition, the removal effect of six different bacterial agents on chemical oxygen demand (COD) was compared. The results showed that “Bilaiqing ammonia nitrogen removal bacteria agent (NR5)” has the best removal effect on COD. Single‐factor experiments suggested that the optimal conditions for NR4 bacteria were pH 7, 30°C, 1.0 g/L of bacterial agent dosage and a wide range of NH4+‐N from 30 to 300 mg/L.

Practitioner Points

The nitrogen removal effects of six different microbial agents were compared.

High‐throughput sequencing provides important insights into the study of ammonia nitrogen removal by microbial communities.

Analysis of six different complex bacterial agents by high‐throughput sequencing.

The relative abundance of microorganisms is not proportional to the ability to remove NH4+‐N

Good application effect in urban landscape water body.
Correction to: Environmental Impacts of Biosurfactants from a Life Cycle Perspective: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Briem Ann-Kathrin , Bippus Lars , Oraby Amira , Noll Philipp , Zibek Susanne , Albrecht Stefan
Published: December 2022

The original version of the book was inadvertently published without the following corrections. The chapter has now been corrected.
Resiliente kritische und sensible Infrastrukturen im Kontext moderner Kommunikationssysteme
Authors: Börner Kai , Kroushkov Dimitar , Malchow Jan-Ole
Published: December 2022

Moderne Informations- und Kommunikationstechnologien (IKT) sind das zentrale Nervensystem weltweiter Wirtschaftskreisläufe, des gesellschaftlichen Zusammenlebens und staatlichen Han-delns. Sie sind einerseits eine Errungenschaft, ohne die wir unser Leben nicht so führen könnten, wie wir es kennen. Andererseits können schon kleinste Störungen in den unzähligen mit IKT hoch-gradig vernetzten Systemen ernsthafte Probleme bereiten. Wie also lassen sich vernetzte Systeme, bei deren Ausfall die Gefahr von Versorgungsengpässen oder Störungen der öffentlichen Sicherheit bestehen, resilient machen?
Die Energiewende als Sprungbrett in ein resilientes Energiesystem
Authors: Korzynietz Roman , Bierau-Delpont Frauke , Moorfeld Rainer
Published: December 2022

Energiesysteme sind essenziell für Sicherheit und Wohlstand und zählen zu Recht zu den kritischen Infrastrukturen in Deutschland. Gegenwärtig erzwingt die Energiewende ihren auf vielfältige Weise herausfordernden Umbau – verbunden unter anderem mit einer starken Kopplung der Teilsysteme, beherrschbar nur auf Basis umfassender Digitalisierung. Aber trotz dieser absehbar gewaltigen Komplexität künftiger Systeme darf die Versorgungssicherheit nicht leiden. So sollen die Energiesysteme sich an immer neue Anforderungen automatisch anpassen und auch hohen Belastungen standhalten können bzw. nach Versagen schnell wiederherstellbar sein. Mit einem Wort: Sie sollen resilient sein.
Auf dem Weg zu resilienten Pflegesettings: Soziotechnische Faktoren digitaler Transformationsprozesse
Authors: Lutze Maxie , Schmietow Bettina , Müller Marius
Published: December 2022

Um bessere Arbeitsbedingungen in der Pflege zu schaffen, bietet die Digitalisierung eine Fülle neuer Chancen. Bei der Einführung digitaler Technologien, die Resilienz in der Pflege stärken können, gilt es jedoch zu vermeiden, dass deren Anwendung zu einer zusätzlichen Belastungsquelle für das Pflegepersonal wird. Eine Analyse der komplexen Beziehungen in der Pflege verdeutlicht das Ausmaß der Herausforderung, eine pflegespezifische Resilienz zu verwirklichen. Denn der bisherige Fokus, der auf die Ausbildung individueller Resilienz liegt, ist unzureichend und muss um organisationale und systemische Aspekte ergänzen werden.
Open Public Data, Medienkompetenz und die Resilienz der Gemeinschaft vor Ort
Authors: Lehning Lukas , Schweigel Henry , Creemers Niklas
Published: December 2022

Öffentliche Diskurse finden zunehmend in digitalen Medien statt. Häufig entfalten sie hier Dynamiken, die einer gemeinsamen Willensbildung, der Verlässlichkeit geteilter kommunikativer Praktiken und nicht zuletzt der Wahrheitsfindung abträglich sind. In der Folge leidet die Fähigkeit lokaler Gemeinschaften, gemeinsam Lösungen etwa für die Bewältigung von Krisen und disruptiven Entwicklungen zu finden. Diskursive Resilienz wird somit zu einem notwendigen Faktor von Gemeinschaftsresilienz. Der Beitrag diskutiert diese Zusammenhänge und zeigt auf, wie die Resilienz von Gemeinschaften – insbesondere mit Blick auf Fragen einer diskursiven Resilienz – gestärkt werden kann. Im Fokus stehen dabei partizipative Verfahren und innovative Maßnahmen auf Basis von Open Public Data (OPD). So adressiert dieses Kapitel die Potenziale und Herausforderungen, welche die Verfügbarkeit und Nutzung dieser Daten für lokale Kontexte bereithalten. Dabei betont der Beitrag Daten- und Medienkompetenz als Voraussetzungen für eine zielführende Verwendung von OPD zur Stärkung von Gemeinschaftsresilienz.
Die Resilienz von Unternehmen und Wirtschaft in Zeiten externer Schocks
Authors: Busch-Heizmann Anne , Krabel Stefan , Wangler Leo
Published: December 2022

Eine weltweite Finanz- und Wirtschaftskrise gegen Ende der 2000er Jahre, wenige Jahre später die Corona-Pandemie und aktuell kaum zu kalkulierende Auswirkungen eines Krieges auf dem europäischen Kontinent: drei markante Beispiele für externe Schocks, die auf Unternehmen und Wirtschaft einwirken und denen sie standhalten müssen. Da ist es hilfreich, einen Blick auf Theorien, Modelle und Operationalisierungen von Resilienz zu werfen – sowohl aus arbeits- und organisationssoziologischer als auch aus betriebswirtschaftlicher und innovationspolitischer Perspektive.
On the Stability of Steady-State Solutions to the Navier–Stokes Equations in the Whole Space
Authors: Galdi Giovanni P. , Maremonti P.
Published: December 2022

We prove asymptotic stability of steady-state solutions to the Navier–Stokes equations in the whole space. One of the novelties of this work consists in considering perturbations that show a distinct pointwise behavior (in space and time) and correspond to initial data only belonging to suitable weighted Lebesgue spaces.
Augmentierte Primärnaht „internal bracing“ nach ligamentärer Ellenbogenluxation
Authors: Rausch Valentin , Königshausen Matthias , Schildhauer Thomas A. , Geßmann Jan
Published: December 2022

Operationsziel

Ziel der operativen Versorgung ist die primäre Stabilisierung des instabilen Ellenbogens nach ligamentärer Ellenbogenluxation.

Indikationen

Ligamentäre Ellenbogenluxationen werden von unterschiedlichen Verletzungen der umgebenden Muskulatur sowie der Kollateralbänder begleitet. Die operative Versorgung ist bei Versagen der konservativen Therapie indiziert, d. h. wenn eine Dezentrierung oder Reluxation nur durch Ruhigstellung in > 90° Beugung und Pronation verhindert werden kann oder das Gelenk durch aktive muskuläre Führung nach 5 bis 7 Tagen nicht zentriert werden kann.

Kontraindikationen

Kontraindikationen für eine alleinige augmentierte Primärnaht bestehen in der Regel bei begleitenden knöchernen Verletzungen im Rahmen der Luxation, bei ausgedehnten Weichteilverletzungen sowie im Falle eines Infektes am Ellenbogen.

Operationstechnik

Die Versorgung mittels augmentierter Primärnaht des Ellenbogens erfolgt kombiniert über einen lateralen (Kocher) und medialen (FCU-Split) Zugang zum Ellenbogen. Nach Reposition des Ellenbogens werden jeweils zuerst die Kollateralbänder mit hochfesten Polyethylenfäden augmentiert und gemeinsam mit einem weiteren hochfesten Polyethylenfaden im Humerus verankert. Darüber werden die Extensoren bzw. Flexoren ebenfalls fadenaugmentiert am Epicondylus lateralis bzw. medialis refixiert.

Weiterbehandlung

Ziel der Weiterbehandlung ist die frühfunktionelle Beübung des Ellenbogens, die in einer Bewegungsorthese unter Vermeidung von Varus- und Valgusbelastung erfolgt.

Ergebnisse

Im Zeitraum zwischen August 2018 und Januar 2020 wurden insgesamt 12 Patienten mit einer augmentieren Primärnaht nach instabiler rein ligamentärer Ellenbogenluxation versorgt. Nach einem mittleren Nachverfolgungszeitraum von 14 ± 12,7 Monaten zeigte sich ein Mayo-Elbow Performance Score von im Mittel 98,5 Punkten bei mittlerem funktionellem Bogen von 115°. Keiner der Patienten gab ein verbleibendes Instabilitätsgefühl des Ellenbogens an.
EANM practice guideline for quantitative SPECT-CT
Authors: Dickson John C. , Armstrong Ian S. , Gabiña Pablo Minguez , Denis-Bacelar Ana M. , Krizsan Aron K. , Gear Jonathan M. , Van den Wyngaert Tim , de Geus-Oei Lioe-Fee , Herrmann Ken
Published: December 2022

Purpose

Quantitative SPECT-CT is a modality of growing importance with initial developments in post radionuclide therapy dosimetry, and more recent expansion into bone, cardiac and brain imaging together with the concept of theranostics more generally. The aim of this document is to provide guidelines for nuclear medicine departments setting up and developing their quantitative SPECT-CT service with guidance on protocols, harmonisation and clinical use cases.

Methods

These practice guidelines were written by members of the European Association of Nuclear Medicine Physics, Dosimetry, Oncology and Bone committees representing the current major stakeholders in Quantitative SPECT-CT. The guidelines have also been reviewed and approved by all EANM committees and have been endorsed by the European Association of Nuclear Medicine.

Conclusion

The present practice guidelines will help practitioners, scientists and researchers perform high-quality quantitative SPECT-CT and will provide a framework for the continuing development of quantitative SPECT-CT as an established modality.