bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tests of bidirectional relations of TV exposure and effortful control as predictors of adjustment in early childhood in the context of family risk factors
Authors: Parrish Krystal H. , Smith Michele R. , Moran Lyndsey , Ruberry Erika J. , Lengua Liliana J.
Published: March 2022

This study examined bidirectional relations between television exposure and effortful control accounting for the effects of family contextual risk factors. Data were from a sample (N = 306) of parents and their preschool‐age children (T1 M = 36 mos. in 2008–2010) assessed four times, once every 9 mos. At T1, adolescent parent status predicted lower child delay ability (DA), and maternal depression predicted higher TV time. Above these effects, higher T1 and T2 child executive control (EC) prospectively predicted lower T2 and T3 TV time, while higher T1 TV time predicted lower T2 EC. Higher EC at T4 predicted fewer total problems, greater social competence, and greater academic readiness at T4, and higher TV time at T4 predicted lower academic readiness. DA was unrelated to TV time or adjustment. Findings suggest executive control and TV time predict changes in each other in early childhood, and in turn, executive control predicts better child adjustment while TV time might be more relevant for academic readiness. Moreover, family risk factors appear to play a role in both TV viewing time and effortful control.
Screening safe pesticide application rates in crop fields for protecting consumer health: A backward model for interim recommended rates
Authors: Li Zijian
Published: March 2022

To reduce human health risks and comply with regulatory standards, it is necessary to provide safe application rates of pesticides in crop fields. In this study, a screening-level model is proposed to improve the regulation of pesticide application rates based on the dynamiCrop platform, which can serve as a complementary approach to field trials for regulatory agencies. The screening-level model can conveniently simulate safe application rates of pesticides based on consumer health risks and maximum residue levels (MRLs). Using 2,4-D as an example, the simulation results agreed with the data of field trials under Good Agricultural Practices and demonstrated that current manufacturers' recommended application rates can effectively comply with MRLs and protect human health. In addition, we simulated the default safe application rates of 449 pesticides in five common crops using the default values of the acceptable daily intake (ADI; 0.01 mg kg−1 day−1) and MRL (0.01 mg kg−1). The results demonstrated that aerial-fruit crops (e.g., tomatoes and apples) had much lower default safe application rates of pesticides than tuber crops due to the different pesticide uptake mechanisms of plants. In addition, the MRL-based default safe application rates were significantly lower than the ADI-based default rates, indicating that the default MRL of 0.01 mg kg−1 adopted by current regulatory agencies is very conservative regarding population health risks. Although other factors, such as the variability of residue levels in crops, occupational exposure (farmers and operators), and multiple pesticide application patterns, need to be considered in future studies, our screening-level model could be used as a complementary tool in field trials to assist regulatory agencies in regulating pesticide application rates in crop fields. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2023;19:126–138. © 2022 SETAC.
Fucoxanthin prevents cell growth and induces apoptosis in endometrial cancer HEC‐1A cells by the inhibition of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway
Authors: Qu Jinfeng , Sun Yaping , Yang Lukai , Niu Xiaoxiao , Li Lanyu
Published: March 2022

Endometrial cancer is the major type of gynecological cancer and ranks as the sixth most common cancer in women. Endometrial cancer usually is diagnosed in an advanced stage, complicating the treatments in many cases. The present research was focused on unveiling the in vitro anticancer role of fucoxanthin against the endometrial cancer HEC‐1A cells by inhibiting the phosphatidylinositol‐3‐kinase/Akt/mammalian target of rapamycin (PI3K/Akt/mTOR) signaling axis. The cytotoxicity of fucoxanthin against the endometrial cancer HEC‐1A cells was studied using the MTT test. The level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) status, and apoptotic cell death in the 7.5 and 10 µM administered HEC‐1A cells were assayed using fluorescent staining techniques. The messenger RNA expression was analyzed using RT‐PCR for PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling molecules, proapoptotic (Bax and caspase‐3) antiapoptotic (cyclin D1 and Bcl‐2) genes, and inflammatory markers like tumour necrosis factor α (TNFα), nuclear factor kappa B (NF‐κB), Cox‐2, and interleukin (IL)‐6. The cell viability assay proved that fucoxanthin effectively prevented HEC‐1A cell viability, where the IC50 was 7.5 µM. Fucoxanthin at 7.5  and 10 µM remarkably improved ROS production and apoptosis and decreased the MMP in HEC‐1A cells. The fucoxanthin effectively inhibited the PI3K/Akt/mTOR cascade along with the expression of TNF‐α, NF‐κB, Cox‐2, and IL‐6 and antiapoptotic genes cyclin D1 and Bcl‐2 in the HEC‐1A cells. Fucoxanthin treatment also enhanced the Bax and caspase‐3 expressions in the HEC‐1A cells. Our results from this work unveiled that fucoxanthin triggered growth inhibition and apoptosis in endometrial cancer HEC‐1A cells. Besides, fucoxanthin inhibited the PI3K/Akt/mTOR cascade and improved apoptotic marker expressions in the HEC‐1A cells.
A hazard identification digital simulation game developed based on the extended authentic learning framework
Authors: Safiena Sufiana , Goh Yang Miang
Published: March 2022

Background

Previous research has shown that the inability to identify hazards is the leading cause of workplace accidents and fatalities. The lack of competency in hazard identification implies a crucial need to improve the teaching and learning approaches in construction safety training and education.

Purpose/Hypothesis

This study developed the extended authentic learning framework (EALF) to design a digital simulation game (DSG) called SafeSim Hazards and tested students' perception of its effectiveness in workplace safety and health (WSH) education.

Design/Methods

Undergraduates majoring in Project and Facilities Management (PFM) used SafeSim Hazards to learn about hazard identification. A questionnaire was used to collect student perceptions of the game and its effectiveness. In addition, random forest analyses were used to identify critical factors that affect the perceived achievement of learning outcomes.

Results

Guidance is the most influential authentic learning factor, and game interaction is an essential design factor in influencing the perceived achievement of learning outcomes. Notably, participants reported high acceptance toward SafeSim Hazards with an average rating of 3.36 out of 4.

Conclusions

The key contributions of this study are threefold: (1) An EALF is developed to facilitate the development of construction hazard identification DSG. (2) It is demonstrated that the DSG developed based on EALF is well received by students with minimum construction experience. (3) It is recommended that future construction hazard identification DSG for inexperienced trainees should emphasize guidance and game interactions.
Reproducibility and postacquisition correction methods for quantitative magnetic resonance imaging of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL)
Authors: Flannery Sean W. , Walsh Edward G. , Sanborn Ryan M. , Chrostek Cynthia A. , Costa Meggin Q. , Kaushal Shankar G. , Murray Martha M. , Fleming Braden C. , Kiapour Ata M.
Published: March 2022

Quantitative magnetic resonance imaging has been used to evaluate the structural integrity of knee joint structures. However, variations in acquisition parameters between scanners pose significant challenges. Understanding the effect of small differences in acquisition parameters for quantitative sequences is vital to the validity of cross‐institutional studies, and for the harmonization of large, heterogeneous datasets to train machine learning models. The study objective was to assess the reproducibility of T2* relaxometry and the constructive interference in steady‐state sequence (CISS) across scanners, with minimal hardware‐necessitated changes to acquisition parameters. It was hypothesized that there would be no significant differences between scanners in anterior cruciate ligament T2* relaxation times and CISS signal intensities (SI). Secondarily, it was hypothesized that differences could be corrected by rescaling the SI distribution to harmonize between scanners. Seven volunteers were scanned on 3T Prisma and Tim Trio scanners (Siemens). Three correction methods were evaluated for T2*: inverse echo time scaling, z‐scoring, and Nyúl histogram matching. For CISS, scans were normalized to cortical bone, scaled by the background noise ratio, and log‐transformed. Before correction, significant mean differences of 6.0 ± 3.2 ms (71.8%; p = 0.02) and 0.49 ± 0.15 units (40.7%; p = 0.02) for T2* and CISS across scanners were observed, respectively. After rescaling, T2* differences decreased to 2.6 ± 2.7 ms (23.9%; p = 0.03), 1.3 ± 2.5 ms (10.9%; p = 0.13), and 1.27 ± 3.0 ms (19.6%; p = 0.40) for inverse echo time, z‐scoring, and Nyúl, respectively, while CISS decreased to 0.01 ± 0.11 units (4.0%; p = 0.87). These findings suggest that small acquisition parameter differences may lead to large changes in T2* and SI values that must be reconciled to compare data across magnets.
A Narrow Bandgap, Isocyanide‐Based Coordination Polymer Framework for Micro‐Supercapacitors with AC Line‐Filtering Performance
Authors: Yang Hang , Zhao Yazhen , Chen Zhenying , Huang Senhe , Lu Chenbao , Ke Changchun , Zhai Guangqun , Zhu Jinhui , Zhuang Xiaodong
Published: March 2022

The rapid expansion of wearable electronic devices boosts the development of energy storage minicomponents. Among them, the on‐chip micro‐supercapacitors (MSCs) have aroused widespread interest due to their distinctive characteristics, e.g., long cycle life, high power density, etc. Herein, an on‐chip MSC device is fabricated by using an isocyanide‐based coordination polymer framework as electrode material. Due to the narrow bandgap, flexibility, and compatibility of the coordination polymer, such MSC device with LiCl/PVA electrolyte delivers large capacitances (up to 0.98 mF cm−2 and 20.56 F cm−3 at a scan rate of 0.1 V s−1) and a short time constant (0.026 ms), which are comparable to the state‐of‐the‐art MSCs with polymer film electrodes. Moreover, this MSC device exhibits good AC line‐filtering ability (−70.8° at 120 Hz). This work introduces an implementable interfacial method to obtain coordination polymer frameworks for constructing miniaturized energy storage devices.
Multiple Resonance Dendrimers Containing Boron, Oxygen, Nitrogen‐Doped Polycyclic Aromatic Emitters for Narrowband Blue‐Emitting Solution‐Processed OLEDs
Authors: Liu Jiapeng , Chen Liang , Wang Xingdong , Yang Qingqing , Zhao Lei , Tong Cuiyan , Wang Shumeng , Shao Shiyang , Wang Lixiang
Published: March 2022

In contrast to small‐molecule multiple resonance emitters processed via vacuum evaporation technology, the design of multiple resonance dendrimers is presented by introducing the first‐ and second‐generation carbazole dendrons in the periphery of boron, oxygen, nitrogen‐doped polycyclic aromatic skeleton, for efficient narrowband blue electroluminescence by a solution process. The multiple resonance dendrimers not only keep the narrowband emission of the polycyclic aromatic skeleton, but also can suppress their intermolecular aggregation by steric carbazole dendrons, overcoming the unwanted spectral broadening in the solid state. The resultant first‐generation carbazole dendrimer exhibits narrowband blue emission with promising photoluminescent quantum efficiency of 94% and delayed fluorescence with a lifetime of 139.1 µs in the solid‐state film. Solution‐processed organic light‐emitting diodes based on the dendrimers reveal electroluminescence at 488 nm with full‐width at half maximum of 39 nm, the maximum luminous efficiency of 29.2 cd A−1, and maximum external quantum efficiency of 13.4%.
CircFOXM1 acts as a ceRNA to upregulate SMAD2 and promote the progression of nasopharyngeal carcinoma
Authors: Pei Shuai , Ma Chengxian , Chen Jie , Hu Xinyu , Du Mingyu , Xu Tian , Zhan Mengna , Xue Ke , Zhang Yufeng , Yin Li , He Xia
Published: March 2022

Background

In recent years, the development of high‐throughput sequencing technology has promoted the rapid development of circRNA‐related research. Studies have found that circRNA plays a key role in a variety of tumors, but few people study the role of circRNA in nasopharyngeal carcinoma. Under comprehensive treatments, the 5‐year survival rate can reach about 70%, but some patients still have distant metastases or recurrences after treatment. Therefore, it is very important to study the molecular mechanisms of the proliferation and invasion of nasopharyngeal carcinoma.

Methods

QRT‐PCR was applied to detect the relative expression level of circFOXM1 in NPC and nasopharyngeal epithelial cell lines. We knocked down circFOXM1 and studied the influence of circFOXM1 on NPC cells. Nuclear and cytoplasmic RNA isolation experiments, fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), bioinformatics analysis, the dual‐luciferase reporter experiment, Western Blot, and other experiments were conducted to verify the relationships among circFOXM1, miR‐136‐5p, and SMAD2. We collected clinical NPC samples to prove the effect of circFOXM1 on the prognosis and treatment of NPC.

Results

In this study, we found that circFOXM1 is highly expressed in nasopharyngeal carcinoma tissue cells compared with adjacent normal tissues and is related to the staging of nasopharyngeal carcinoma. High expression of circFOXM1 indicates a poor prognosis for nasopharyngeal carcinoma. Knockdown of CircFOXM1 inhibited the proliferation and invasion of nasopharyngeal carcinoma cells.

Conclusion

CircFOXM1 promotes the malignant proliferation of nasopharyngeal carcinoma cells by regulating the miR‐136‐5p‐SMAD2 axis.
Deep phenotyping and whole‐exome sequencing improved the diagnostic yield for nuclear pedigrees with neurodevelopmental disorders
Authors: Wang Qingqing , Tang Xia , Yang Ke , Huo Xiaodong , Zhang Hui , Ding Keyue , Liao Shixiu
Published: March 2022

Background

Neurodevelopmental disorders, a group of early‐onset neurological disorders with significant clinical and genetic heterogeneity, remain a diagnostic challenge for clinical genetic evaluation. Therefore, we assessed the diagnostic yield by combining standard phenotypes and whole‐exome sequencing in families with these disorders that were “not yet diagnosed” by the traditional testing methods.

Methods

Using a standardized vocabulary of phenotypic abnormalities from human phenotype ontology (HPO), we performed deep phenotyping for 45 “not yet diagnosed” pedigrees to characterize multiple clinical features extracted from Chinese electronic medical records (EMRs). By matching HPO terms with known human diseases and phenotypes from model organisms, together with whole‐exome sequencing data, we prioritized candidate mutations/genes. We made probable genetic diagnoses for the families.

Results

We obtained a diagnostic yield of 29% (13 out of 45) with probably genetic diagnosis, of which compound heterozygosity and de novo mutations accounted for 77% (10/13) of the diagnosis. Of note, these pedigrees are accompanied by a more significant number of non‐neurological features.

Conclusions

Deep phenotyping and whole‐exome sequencing improve the etiological evaluation for neurodevelopmental disorders in the clinical setting.
Effect of Reproductive Status on Some Biochemical Parameters in American Shad
Authors: Gao Xiao-Qiang , Liu Zhi-Feng , Huang Bin , Wang Yao-Hui , Zhao Kui-Feng , Chen Hai-Bin , Xing Rui , Hong Lei
Published: March 2022

The pattern of some blood biochemical parameters of adult American Shad Alosa sapidissima was investigated during their reproductive cycle. A total of 288 subadult broodfish were captured between October 2015 and September 2016, of which 10 broodfish for each developmental stage were selected based on similar length and weight to evaluate the overall health status of the fish. The results showed that the serum levels of total protein, albumin, globulin, glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase, glutamic-pyruvic transaminase, low-density lipoprotein, high-density lipoprotein, plasma glucose, triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC), Ca2+, and P of the American Shad broodstock (females and males) significantly increased as their gonads developed, reaching the highest levels at stages IV and V, after which the above-mentioned parameters substantially decreased at stage VI. The TC and TG levels in females significantly increased from stage II to stage V and then the levels began to decrease after spawning (stage VI), but there was no significant difference in TC and TG levels in males. With the development of the gonads, the plasma glucose, superoxide dismutase, catalase, and lysozyme levels in both male and female broodfish showed different degrees of decline; in stages V (spawning period) and VI (postnatal period), these parameters significantly decreased. The results of this study indicate that physiological parameters (e.g., blood glucose level, blood lipid level, and antioxidant capacity) of American Shad broodfish, especially females, show varying degrees of reduction during reproduction, which suggests that nutritional imbalance significantly reduces immunity during the postnatal period.
Efficacy of capacitive resistive monopolar radiofrequency in the physiotherapeutic treatment of chronic pelvic pain syndrome: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Carralero‐Martínez Andrea , Muñoz Pérez Miguel A. , Kauffmann Stèphanie , Blanco‐Ratto Laia , Ramírez‐García Inés
Published: March 2022

Aim

To evaluate the efficacy of adjuvant, capacitive resistive monopolar radiofrequency (CRMRF, INDIBA) treatment at 448 kHz together with physiotherapeutic techniques compared to a sham treatment with the same techniques, for pain reduction and quality of life (QoL) improvements in patients with chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CPPS).

Methods

A triple‐blind, randomized controlled trial (RCT) including patients with CPPS randomly allocated (1:1) to a CRMRF‐activated group (intervention) or a CRMRF‐deactivated one (control). Both groups received physiotherapeutic techniques and pain education weekly for 10 consecutive weeks. Data from a visual analogical scale and the SF‐12 questionnaire were collected at trial commencement and repeated at the 5th and 10th sessions. Pain intensity was considered the main outcome. For the comparisons between variables, the χ2 and Student's t test were used. Superiority was analyzed by estimating the mean change (95% confidence interval). Analysis was performed for the per‐protocol and the intention‐to‐treat populations. The statistical significance level was set at p < 0.05.

Results

Eighty‐one patients were included (67.9% women) with a mean age of 43.6 years (SD 12.9). CRMRF lessened pain scores by more than 2 points and improved QoL by 5 points. There were no relevant side effects and overall adherence to the treatment was 86.4%.

Conclusions

This is the first RCT that evaluates the efficacy of CRMRF (INDIBA) compared to a sham treatment, and demonstrates its superiority in decreasing pain and improving QoL. Such results may lead to greater prescribing of CRMRF when treating CPPS patients.
A morphological and mechanical analysis of composites from modified bagasse fibers and recycled polyvinyl chloride
Authors: Youssef Ahmad M. , Abd El‐Aziz Mahmoud E. , Abouzeid Ragab E.
Published: March 2022

Bagasse raw materials were filled with recycled polyvinyl chloride composites via compounding and compression molding. In this research, unmodified, soda treated, and oxidized bagasse fibers were combined in different concentrations (5%, 10%, 15%, and 20%) with pure PVC/recycled PVC (30:70 wt). The composites surfaces were examined as well as their mechanical properties, crystallization behavior, and biodegradation properties. It was found that uniformity in the distribution of the bagasse fibers in the microstructure of the polymer composites was a major factor affecting the mechanical properties. The oxidized bagasse fiber loaded composite matrix gives the best mechanical and biodegradation properties compared with the untreated and soda treated bagasse fibers. In addition to increasing modulus and tensile strength, fiber loading also reduced hardness. X‐ray diffraction investigation illustrated that introducing fiber to a p‐ PVC/r‐PVC matrix did not affect characteristic peak positions. Packaging applications can be further developed with these composite materials.
Property enhancement approaches of fused filament fabrication technology: A review
Authors: Pazhamannil Ribin Varghese , V. N. Jishnu Namboodiri , P. Govindan , Edacherian Abhilash
Published: March 2022

The shift from rapid prototyping to rapid manufacturing using 3D printing is prominent after the development of volumetric 3D printing, multi‐material printing, and functional materials development. Fused filament fabrication (FFF) is a fast‐growing additive manufacturing technology with widespread end‐user applications. The key constraints to its growth are the lower surface and mechanical properties compared to conventional manufacturing paradigms. The goal of this review is to look at the numerous pre‐processing and post‐processing parameters for the property enhancement of FFF. Pre‐processing methods included optimization of process parameters (infill percentage, pattern, layer height, nozzle and platform temperature, raster angle and width, build orientation, and air gap) and adaptive slicing techniques. Mechanical (hot air jetting, barrel finishing, sand blasting, laser polishing, etc.), chemical (vapor smoothing, dipping, plating, and painting), and thermal (thermal annealing and normalizing) post‐processing techniques were successful in improving the mechanical strength and surface finish of fused filament fabricated parts. This paper outlines the various methodologies a FFF user could incorporate for enhancing the final finished product's properties. The potential future prospects for the development of the 3D printing sector are also examined.
Salt leaching as a green method for the production of polyethylene foams for thermal energy storage applications
Authors: Sorze Alessandro , Valentini Francesco , Dorigato Andrea , Pegoretti Alessandro
Published: March 2022

Materials able to store thermal energy can be a useful strategy to reduce energy consumption of buildings and to decrease greenhouse gases emissions. In this work, for the first time, the technique of salt leaching has been used to produce novel polyethylene foams containing different amounts of a microencapsulated phase‐change material (PCM) with a melting point of 24°C, to be potentially applied in building insulation. The microstructural, thermal, and mechanical properties of produced foams have been comprehensively investigated. The prepared foams were characterized by high values of open porosity (about 60%) and by density values around 0.4 g/cm3. Infrared thermography analysis demonstrated that the time required from the samples to reach a set temperature, thanks to the presence of PCM, was up to two times higher with respect to the reference foam. Therefore, these materials could store/release an interesting amount of thermal energy. Shore‐A measurements evidenced that the addition of PCM generally led to a softening of the foams. Tensile mechanical tests confirmed the softening effect provided by the addition of the microcapsules, with a decrease of the stiffness and of the strength of the material. Interestingly, strain‐at‐break values were considerably increased upon PCM introduction.
Synthesis, selective decoration and photocrosslinking of self‐immolative poly(thioester)‐PEG hydrogels
Authors: Soars Shafer M. , Kirkpatrick Bruce E. , Fairbanks Benjamin D. , Kamps Joshua T. , Anseth Kristi S. , Bowman Christopher N.
Published: March 2022

Self‐immolative polymers are a class of polymers that undergo linear depolymerization of the main chain, often triggered by a single initial degradation event. Chain‐unzipping immolation processes followed by low‐ceiling‐temperature polymers yield regenerated monomers, demonstrating the remarkable potential of these polymers in the development of reversible and recyclable materials. In this work, we describe the synthesis of an amino‐acid‐derived poly(thioester) self‐immolative polymer with pendent functional groups allowing for selective decoration of the polymer backbone with solubilizing and reactive functional groups for subsequent post‐polymerization modification. Crosslinking norbornene‐functionalized, water‐soluble derivatives of these polymers via the thiol‐ene photoclick reaction yielded mechanically robust hydrogels within 15 s of light exposure. These networks were capable of immolation in response to deprotonation of an end‐capping thiol, unzipping along the poly(thioester) backbone to yield constituent monomers and larger molecular weight crosslinker fragments. Finally, degelation rates were controlled with pH and temperature in aqueous buffers. At physiological pH and temperature, complete degradation of approximately 20 wt% hydrogels was observed after 16 h, and raising the buffer pH to 10 resulted in network dissolution within 5 h. © 2022 Society of Industrial Chemistry.
Ferroelectricity Improvement in Ultra‐Thin Hf0.5Zr0.5O2Capacitors by the Insertion of a Ti Interfacial Layer
Authors: Segantini Greta , Barhoumi Rabei , Manchon Benoît , Cañero Infante Ingrid , Rojo Romeo Pedro , Bugnet Matthieu , Baboux Nicolas , Nirantar Shruti , Deleruyelle Damien , Sriram Sharath , Vilquin Bertrand
Published: March 2022

The effect at the nanoscale of a Ti interfacial layer on the performances of TiN/HfZrO/TiN capacitors is reported. Ferroelectric hafnium zirconium oxide (HZO) is synthesized by magnetron sputtering of a ceramic target. Titanium nitride top and bottom electrodes are grown by reactive magnetron sputtering. The insertion of an ultra‐thin Ti layer at the top electrode/HZO interface impacts the crystalline phase and the electrical properties of the ferroelectric HZO. Following post‐deposition annealing, the Ti layer is oxidized and becomes titanium oxide. Compositional and structural characterization is performed using glancing incidence X‐Ray diffraction and electron energy‐loss spectroscopy. The TiOzlayer is clearly distinguishable at the top electrode/HZO interface. Electrical characterization is conducted by positive‐up‐negative‐down (PUND) technique. The remnant polarization reaches a maximum value of for 6 nm thick HZO. The results are discussed in the framework of structural, compositional, and physical properties of the electrode/HZO interfaces and their effect on the electrical performances of thin HZO‐based junctions, which could subsequently be considered for the demonstration of synaptic learning mechanisms for neuromorphic applications.
Development and validation of a sensitive and reliable targeted metabolomics method for the quantification of cardiovascular disease‐related biomarkers in plasma using ultrahigh‐performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Gao Shanshan , Wang Xiangyi , Huang Jianpeng , Zhu Ying , Zhang Ruiping , He Jiuming , Abliz Zeper
Published: March 2022

Rationale

Cardiovascular disease, as a multifactorial disease caused by genetics and environment, has emerged as a leading cause of mortality. The discovery of metabolic biomarkers for the clinical diagnosis, early warning and elucidation of the molecular pathogenesis of cardiovascular disease, using metabolomics, has attracted broad interest. Therefore, this work aimed to develop a sensitive and reliable targeted metabolomics method for the quantification of cardiovascular disease‐related biomarkers in plasma.

Methods

The method was developed and validated using ultrahigh‐performance liquid chromatography augmented with tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC/MS/MS). The LC conditions and MS parameters were optimized using selected reaction monitoring scanning mode to high‐throughput and sensitive separation, and could detect 20 metabolic biomarkers in a single experiment. And the linearity, selectivity, accuracy, precision, stability and recovery of the developed method were assessed according to the Bioanalytical Method Validation guidelines of the United States Food and Drug Administration.

Results

These quantified metabolic biomarkers are involved in pathways such as aromatic amino acid catabolism (e.g. phenylalanine, tryptophan, tyrosine), trimethylamine N‐oxide (TMAO) biosynthesis (e.g. TMAO, choline, carnitine, betaine) and histidine metabolism (e.g. histidine), among others. All analytes exhibited excellent linearities with coefficients of determination greater than 0.99. Accuracies deviated by less than 15% for medium‐ and high‐concentration samples and less than 20% for low‐concentration samples, with intra‐ and inter‐day precisions of 1.12–14.12% and 0.30–13.74%, respectively. Recoveries and stabilities also met the analysis requirements of biological samples.

Conclusions

The targeted metabolomics method was shown to have a powerful ability to accurately analyze metabolic biomarkers, thereby providing valuable information for large‐scale biomarker validation and clarifying the potential material basis of cardiovascular disease for clinical diagnosis or early warning.
Delayed post‐pneumonectomy empyema necessitans caused by Aspergillus flavus: An unusual report
Authors: Hakamifard Atousa , Gharedaghi Babak , Tabarsi Payam , Shokouhi Shervin , Negahban Halimeh , Sharifynia Somayeh , Dorudinia Atosa
Published: March 2022

Post‐pneumonectomy empyema (PPE), with or without bronchopleural fistula, is a challenging and serious entity with significant mortality and morbidity. PPE is usually caused by bacteria such as staphylococci, streptococci and also gram‐negative rods. Among fungal pathogens, Aspergillus species is a very rare cause of this entity. Herein, we describe an unusual case of delayed post‐pneumonectomy empyema necessitans caused by Aspergillus flavus in a 65‐year‐old man with favourable clinical outcome by combined surgical and antifungal therapy.
The coping insights evident through self‐reflection on stressful military training events: Qualitative evidence from self‐reflection journals
Authors: Falon Samantha Leigh , Hoare Scott , Kangas Maria , Crane Monique Frances
Published: March 2022

Research has demonstrated that adaptive forms of self‐reflection on stressor events and insight may strengthen resilient capacities. However, the coping insights that emerge during self‐reflection are notoriously under‐researched. In this research, we sought to explore the evidence for the self‐reflective activities and coping insights drawn from the Self‐Reflection and Coping Insight Framework and find evidence of new reflections or insights not captured within the framework. Qualitative analysis was used to examine weekly, written self‐reflective journals completed by Officer Cadets involved in a randomised‐controlled trial of Self‐Reflection Resilience Training. Sixty‐eight Officer Cadets who submitted their journals for analysis were included. Journals were analysed using a deductive thematic approach. Findings revealed that self‐reflective activities occurred frequently over the course of the intervention. Coping insights were comparatively less frequent, but conveyed complex ideas about the self in the context of stressor exposure, broad principles about stress and coping, and nuanced interpretations regarding the interaction between the efficacy of coping approaches and broader contextual and intrapersonal factors. These findings demonstrate the critical role of coping insight during Self‐Reflection Resilience Training, with implications for developing a validated self‐report measure of self‐reflective activity and coping insight.
Performance of Thermal Interface Materials
Authors: Chung D.D.L.
Published: March 2022

The thermal interface materials (TIMs) used for improving thermal contacts are considered in terms of the performance, performance consideration criteria, performance evaluation methods, and material development approaches. The performance is described mainly by the thermal contact conductance, which refers to the conductance across the thermal contact surfaces that sandwiches the TIM. This conductance depends on the conformability, thermal conductivity, and small‐thickness feasibility. However, the vast majority of published work does not consider this conductance, but only the thermal conductivity within the TIM. The highest TIM performance is exhibited by the thermal pastes and low‐melting alloys.
Secretory Fluid‐Aggregated Janus Electrospun Short Fiber Scaffold for Wound Healing
Authors: Qian Shutong , Wang Juan , Liu Zhimo , Mao Jiayi , Zhao Binfan , Mao Xiyuan , Zhang Liucheng , Cheng Liying , Zhang Yuguang , Sun Xiaoming , Cui Wenguo
Published: March 2022

Exudate management is critical to improve chronic wound healing. Herein, inspired by a Janus‐structured lotus leaf with asymmetric wettability, a Janus electrospun short fiber scaffold is fabricated via electrospinning technologies and short fiber modeling. This scaffold is composed of hydrophilic 2D curcumin‐loaded electrospun fiber and hydrophobic 3D short fiber via layer‐by‐layer assembly and electrostatic interactions which can aggregate the wound exudate by pumping from the hydrophobic layer to the hydrophilic via multiple contact points between hydrophilic and hydrophobic fibers, and simultaneously trigger the cascade release of curcumin in the upper 2D electrospun fiber. The 3D short fiber with high porosity and hydrophobicity can quickly aggregate exudate within 30 s after compounding with hydrophilic 2D electrospun fiber via a spontaneous pump. In vitro experiments show that Janus electrospun short fiber has good biocompatibility, and the cascade release of curcumin can significantly promote the proliferation and migration of fibroblasts. In vivo experiments show that it can trigger cascade release of curcumin by aggregating wound exudate, so as to accelerate wound healing process and promote collagen deposition and vascularization. Hence, this unique biometric Janus scaffold provides an alternative for chronic wound healing.
Compressive membrane action in axially restrained hollow core slabs: Experimental investigation
Authors: Thienpont Thomas , De Corte Wouter , Van Coile Ruben , Caspeele Robby
Published: March 2022

When a concrete slab is excessively loaded due to an accidental event, compressive membrane action can be activated in order to generate an alternative load transfer to the remaining supports, which can considerably enhance the load‐carrying capacity. This can increase the structural reliability of the components, delay or even prevent a progressive collapse and consequently increase the robustness of concrete structures. Although the beneficial effects of compressive membrane action in reinforced concrete slabs have been recognized for decades, only limited research has been focusing on this effect in prestressed concrete members, like hollow core slabs. Therefore, a novel real‐scale test set‐up has been developed in order to assess this phenomenon in real‐scale hollow core slabs. The results indicate that, despite the presence of the large hollow cores, compressive membrane action can significantly improve the load‐carrying capacity of hollow core slabs under excessive loading. In parallel, a numerical finite element model has been established in order to model the structural behavior (i.e., compressive membrane action) as per the investigated test program. The model was able to correlate the results from the experiments very well, and emphasized the large influence of the concrete tensile strength on the ultimate failure load of concrete hollow core slabs in compressive membrane action.
Citrus lemon mediated green synthesis of ZnTiO3 nanospheres for the degradation of petrochemical wastewater
Authors: Joy Merlin , Chandrasekharan Gayathri , Khan Mohammad Ahmed , Arunachalapandi Murugan , Chellapandi Thangapandi , Harish Deepak , Chitra Devarajulu , Roopan Selvaraj Mohana
Published: March 2022

There is a significant need for high‐performance catalysts capable of degrading harmful petrochemical waste for wastewater treatment. The biosynthetic approach is employed here for preparing ZnTiO3 nanospheres. In the present investigation, lemon extract was used for synthesizing the above nanospheres. ZnTiO3 nanospheres were further characterized by XRD, UV‐Vis DRS, PL Spectra, BET, SEM‐EDAX, TEM, AFM, and Zeta Potential techniques. The photocatalytic activity of the prepared photocatalyst was tested against real wastewater samples from the petrochemical industry. 96.74% wastewater degradation was observed with ZnTiO3 nanospheres. Moreover, GC‐MS was employed for identical analysis of organic pollutants before and after petrochemical treatment. This study shows how to make cost‐effective and environmentally friendly catalysts that can be used to use UV light for wastewater treatment more effectively.
Whole brain radiotherapy combined with intrathecal liposomal cytarabine for leptomeningeal metastasis—a safety analysis and validation of the EANO-ESMO classification
Authors: Iglseder Sarah , Nowosielski Martha , Bsteh Gabriel , Muigg Armin , Heugenhauser Johanna , Mayer Elke , Grams Astrid , Stockhammer Günther , Nevinny-Stickel Meinhard
Published: March 2022

Background

Although there is no proven standard therapy for leptomeningeal metastases (LM), treatment often includes intrathecal chemotherapy combined with whole brain radiation therapy (WBRT). Little is known about the toxicity of such combination therapies. We performed a retrospective safety analysis for the combination of intrathecal liposomal cytarabine with WBRT in patients with LM and validated the EANO-ESMO (European Association of Neuro-oncology—European Society for Medical Oncology) classification in this unique cohort.

Methods

Treatment toxicities in patients diagnosed with LM between 2004 and 2014 were retrospectively analyzed according to RTOG (Radiation Therapy Oncology Group) toxicity criteria and NCI CTCAE V5.0 (National Cancer Institute Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events, Version 5.0). Diagnostic criteria and treatment response as assessed by EANO-ESMO classification were correlated with survival by Kaplan–Meier analysis and Breslow test.

Results

In all, 40 patients with LM who were treated with combined WBRT and intrathecal cytarabine, were identified. Ten patients (25%) experienced adverse events ≥grade 3 according to RTOG toxicity criteria; in 22 patients (55%) NCI CTCAE ≥grade 3 were detected. Median overall survival was 124 days. Median time to neurological progression was 52 days. Patients with positive cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) cytology (n = 26) showed worse prognosis compared to patients with negative CSF cytology (n = 14; mOS (median overall survival) 84 days versus 198 days, p = 0.006, respectively). The EANO-ESMO response assessment was significantly associated with survival: “stable” (n = 7) mOS 233 days, “response” (n = 10) mOS 206 days, “progression” (n = 17) mOS 45 days, “suspicion of progression” (n = 6) mOS 133 days; overall, p < 0.001.

Conclusions

In this retrospective analysis, combined treatment of WBRT and intrathecal liposomal cytarabine shows an acceptable safety profile and may indicate a trend towards improved efficacy. The EANO-ESMO classification for diagnosis and treatment response predicts survival.
Local dose rate effects in implantable cardioverter–defibrillators with flattening filter free and flattened photon radiation
Authors: Gauter-Fleckenstein Benjamin , Tülümen Erol , Rudic Boris , Borggrefe Martin , Polednik Martin , Fleckenstein Jens
Published: March 2022

Purpose

In the beam penumbra of stereotactic body radiotherapy volumes, dose rate effects in implantable cardioverter–defibrillators (ICDs) may be the predominant cause for failures in the absence of neutron-generating photon energies. We investigate such dose rate effects in ICDs and provide evidence for safe use of lung tumor stereotactic radioablation with flattening filter free (FFF) and flattened 6 Megavolt (MV) beams in ICD-bearing patients.

Methods

Sixty-two ICDs were subjected to scatter radiation in 1.0, 2.5, and 7.0 cm distance to 100 Gy within a 5 × 5 cm2 radiation field. Radiation was applied with 6 MV FFF beams (constant dose rate of 1400 cGy/min) and flattened (FLAT) 6 MV beams (430 cGy/min). Local dose rates (LDR) at the position of all ICDs were measured. All ICDs were monitored continuously.

Results

With 6 MV FFF beams, ICD errors occurred at distances of 1.0 cm (LDR 46.8 cGy/min; maximum ICD dose 3.4 Gy) and 2.5 cm (LDR 15.6 cGy/min; 1.1 Gy). With 6 MV FLAT beams, ICD errors occurred only at 1 cm distance (LDR 16.8 cGy/min; 3.9 Gy). No errors occurred at an LDR below 7 cGy/min, translating to a safe distance of 2.5 cm (1.5 Gy) in flattened and 7 cm (0.4 Gy) in 6 MV FFF beams.

Conclusion

A LDR in ICDs larger than 7 cGy/min may cause ICD malfunction. At identical LDR, differences between 6 MV FFF and 6 MV FLAT beams do not yield different rates of malfunction. The dominant reason for ICD failures could be the LDR and not the total dose to the ICD. For most stereotactic treatments, it is recommended to generate a planning risk volume around the ICD in which LDR larger than 7 cGy/min are avoided.
Treatment and outcomes of anticoagulated geriatric trauma patients with traumatic intracranial hemorrhage after falls
Authors: Nederpelt Charlie J. , Naar Leon , Meier Karien , van Wijck Suzanne F. M. , Krijnen Pieta , Velmahos George C. , Kaafarani Haytham M. A. , Rosenthal Martin G. , Schipper Inger B.
Published: March 2022

Introduction

Emergency physicians and trauma surgeons are increasingly confronted with pre-injury direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs). The objective of this study was to assess if pre-injury DOACs, compared to vitamin K antagonists (VKA), or no oral anticoagulants is independently associated with differences in treatment, mortality and inpatient rehabilitation requirement.

Methods

We performed a review of the prospectively maintained institutional trauma registry at an urban academic level 1 trauma center. We included all geriatric patients (aged ≥ 65 years) with tICH after a fall, admitted between January 2011 and December 2018. Multivariable logistic regression analysis controlling for demographics, comorbidities, vital signs, and tICH types were performed to identify the association between pre-injury anticoagulants and reversal agent use, neurosurgical interventions, inhospital mortality, 3-day mortality, and discharge to inpatient rehabilitation.

Results

A total of 1453 tICH patients were included (52 DOAC, 376 VKA, 1025 control). DOAC use was independently associated with lower odds of receiving specific reversal agents [odds ratio (OR) 0.28, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.15–0.54] than VKA patients. DOAC use was independently associated with requiring neurosurgical intervention (OR 3.14, 95% CI 1.36–7.28). VKA use, but not DOAC use, was independently associated with inhospital mortality, or discharge to hospice care (OR 1.62, 95% CI 1.15–2.27) compared to controls. VKA use was independently associated with higher odds of discharge to inpatient rehabilitation (OR 1.41, 95% CI 1.06–1.87) compared to controls.

Conclusion

Despite the higher neurosurgical intervention rates, patients with pre-injury DOAC use were associated with comparable rates of mortality and discharge to inpatient rehabilitation as patients without anticoagulation exposure. Future research should focus on risk assessment and stratification of DOAC-exposed trauma patients.
Work intensity and quality of life can be restored following double-level osteotomy in varus knee osteoarthritis
Authors: Ihle Christoph , Dorn Julia , Ateschrang Atesch , Baumgartner Heiko , Herbst Moritz , Döbele Stefan , Histing Tina , Schröter Steffen , Ahrend Marc-Daniel
Published: March 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to assess changes in health-related quality of life (HRQL) and work intensity following double-level knee osteotomy (DLO). It was hypothesized that postoperative HRQL would be comparable to that of the general population and that work intensity can be restored in the short term.

Methods

Twenty-four patients (28 varus knees; mechanical tibiofemoral angle: −11.0 ± 3.0° (−6.0 to −17.0), age: 49.1 ± 9.5 (31–65) years) who underwent DLO were included. The duration the patients were unable to work was evaluated. HRQL was measured with the SF-36 questionnaire, which consists of a physical (PCS) and mental component summary score (MCS). The pre- to postoperative changes in the PCS and MCS were analysed. The PCS and MCS were also compared to those of the general population, who has a reference score value of 50 points. The work intensity measured with the REFA classification and the Tegner activity scale were assessed preoperatively and at the final postoperative follow-up examination (18.0 ± 10.0 (5–43) months).

Results

The duration that the patients were unable to work was 12.2 ± 4.4 (6–20) weeks. The PCS improved from 32.1 ± 11.3 (14.5–53.3) preoperatively to 54.6 ± 8.5 (25.2–63.7) (p < 0.001) at the final follow-up, and the MCS improved from 53.9 ± 11.1 (17.1–67.7) to 57.2 ± 3.1 (47.3–61.7) (n.s). The preoperative PCS was significantly lower than the reference score of the general population (p < 0.001), whereas the preoperative MCS was similar between the two groups (n.s.). At follow-up, no significant differences were observed between the PCS and the MCS of the patient group and those of the general population. Five patients who were unable to work prior to surgery due to knee symptoms returned to work with moderate (four patients) or even very heavy (one patient) workloads. The Tegner activity scale increased significantly from a median of 2.0 (0.0–5.0) to 4.0 (2.0–7.0) (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Our results demonstrate an improvement in quality of life and return to working activity following DLO in the short term. The HRQL can be improved by DLO in patients with varus knee osteoarthritis to the level of the general population. These results can assist surgeons in discussing realistic expectations when considering patients for DLO.

Level of evidence

Study type: therapeutic, IV.