bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Overcoming Spectral Interferences in the Determination of Cadmium in Various Food Materials Using Isotope Dilution Inductively‐coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry#
Authors: Kim Sook Heun , Lim Youngran , Hwang Euijin , Yim Yong‐Hyeon
Published: October 2023

Double isotope dilution inductively‐coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ID ICP/MS) is widely used for the certification of trace elements in candidate reference materials by many national metrology institutes because it allows accurate and reliable determination of the elemental content in complex matrices of food samples. The presence of isobaric interferences, however, may cause nonnegligible biases in isotope ratio measurements, giving erroneous analytical results. In this study, a matrix separation was carried out using anion exchange chromatography to eliminate isobaric interferences so that an accurate determination of Cd in candidate reference materials could be obtained. Synthetic blends of Cd and interfering elements were used to optimize the matrix separation conditions. The isobaric interferences for cadmium isotopes in various food samples were investigated using the optimized method. Without matrix separation, a significant bias, up to 18%, was observed in a soybean sample. It was about 3% in an herb sample. With the proper selection of isotopes and elimination of isobaric interferences, Cd concentrations in food candidate reference materials were robustly certified.
Spectral Resolving of Deep Raman Spectra of PMMA–trans‐Stilbene Bilayer with Generalized 2D Correlation Spectroscopy#
Authors: Lee Hee Su , Cho Youngho , Kim Bumjin , Song Siwon , Jung Young Mee , Park Chan Ryang , Kim Hyung Min
Published: October 2023

Spatially offset Raman spectroscopy of bilayer analytes results in complicated spectra from each component. To separate the respective spectrum, we applied generalized two‐dimensional correlation spectroscopy (2DCOS) as a curve resolution method in comparison with principal component analysis and the multiple curve resolution–alternating least square method. Our results show that composite Raman spectra of analytes are resolved more clearly using 2DCOS than the other methods. We propose that 2DCOS improves the resolving capability using the out‐of‐phase information of spectral intensity variation as a function of offset.
Preparation of Porous Carbons from Sugars and their Application for Carbon Capture
Authors: Hossain Anwar Md. , Park Seo Kyoung , Kim Hoon Sik , Lee Je Seung
Published: October 2023

Porous carbon materials derived from sugars have been prepared by a new method using silica aerogel as a template. The silica aerogels were prepared by the reaction of tetramethyl orthosilicate (TMOS) and formic acid in the presence of sugar (d‐fructose, d‐glucose, or sucrose). Prepared silica aerogels containing sugar were carbonized under inert atmosphere followed by the removal of silicate with KOH solution to obtain the porous carbon materials. Prepared porous carbons with smaller amount of TMOS show higher surface areas (up to 312.2 m2/g) than the carbons prepared sugars themselves without using TMOS (108.7–277.3 m2/g). However, the surface areas of porous carbons decreased dramatically at the weight ratios of TMOS/sugar over 0.25. By increasing the surface areas of porous carbons, CO2
adsorption capacities of porous carbon materials increased up to 3.73 mmol/g.
Synthesis and Physical Properties of Asymmetrical Quaterthiophene Derivatives as Organic Thin‐Film Transistor Materials
Authors: Shaik Baji , Noh Young Ri , Choi Ho June , Yoon Soon Byung , Yun Myoung Hee , Kim Jin Young , Lee Sang‐Gyeong
Published: October 2023

We report here, synthesis, physical, thermal, and optoelectronic properties of compounds containing anthracene, anthraquinone, and 11,11,12,12‐tetracyano‐9,10‐anthraquinodimethane units connected to quaterthiophene units. Three compounds,
TQAO
(6),
TQAN
(7), and
TQAM
(8) are synthesized by using Stille coupling, reduction, and Knoevenagel condensation reactions. These compounds were thermally stable and exhibited organic thin‐film transistor (OTFT) properties. Among them,
TQAM
(8)‐based OTFT has shown ambipolar mobility, both hole and electron mobility of 2.0 × 10−6 and 2.43 × 10−7 cm2/Vs, respectively.
TQAO
(6) and
TQAN
(7) has shown low electron mobility of 5.58 × 10−6 and 1.22 × 10−5 cm2/Vs, respectively.
Using Zombies to Teach Collaborative Scholarship and Born‐Digital Publishing
Authors: Thomas Jamie A.
Published: October 2023

EDITOR'S SUMMARY

Zombies have been sweeping across all types of media for many years, and their popularity continues to rise with TV shows like The Walking Dead and movies like Warm Bodies. The popularity of entertainment about the undead presents an interesting opportunity to draw parallels between the fiction of zombies and the reality of human politics, societies and issues. In an effort to connect this discourse with born‐digital publishing, [ZOMBIES REIMAGINED] was created. The effort behind [ZOMBIES REIMAGINED] was undertaken by faculty, students and librarians at Swarthmore College, and it was launched in May 2016 as a public website with individual exhibits in the form of web pages. The web pages were authored by students in the author's seminar and turned into an online experience with the help of Swarthmore librarians. Due to the success of the project, a large update to the site was launched in May 2017 with all new student authors and topics discussed.
Impact of Metabolic Stress on BeWo Syncytiotrophoblast Function**
Authors: Rogers Lisa M. , Huggins Marissa , Doster Ryan S. , Omage Joel I. , Gaddy Jennifer A. , Eastman Alison , Aronoff David M.
Published: October 2023

During placental formation, cytotrophoblasts (CTBs) fuse into multinucleate, microvilli‐coated syncytiotrophoblasts (STBs), which contact maternal blood, mediating nutrient, metabolite, and gas exchange between mother and fetus, and providing a barrier against fetal infection. Trophoblasts remodel the surrounding extracellular matrix through the secretion of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). Maternal obesity and diabetes mellitus can negatively impact fetal development and may impair trophoblast function. We sought to model the impact of metabolic stress on STB function by examining MMP and hormone secretion. The BeWo CTB cell line was syncytialized to STB‐like cells with forskolin. Cell morphology was examined by electron microscopy and immunofluorescence; phenotype was further assessed by ELISA and RT‐qPCR. STBs were exposed to a metabolic stress cocktail (MetaC: 30 mM glucose, 10 nM insulin, and 0.1 mM palmitic acid). BeWo syncytialization was demonstrated by increased secretion of HCGβ and progesterone, elevated syncytin gene expression (ERVW‐1 and ERVFRD‐1), loss of tight junctions, and increased surface microvilli. MetaC strongly suppressed syncytin gene expression (ERVW‐1 and ERVFRD‐1), suppressed HCGβ and progesterone secretion, and altered both MMP‐9 and MMP‐2 production. Metabolic stress modeling diabetes and obesity altered BeWo STB hormone and MMP production in vitro.
Interfacing Whole Cell Biocatalysis with a Biocompatible Pictet‐Spengler Reaction for One‐Pot Syntheses of Tetrahydroisoquinolines and Tryptolines**
Authors: Andersen Campbell M. , Knudson Luke D. , Domaille Dylan W.
Published: October 2023

Biocatalytic processes are highly selective and specific. However, their utility is limited by the comparatively narrow scope of enzyme‐catalysed transformations. To expand product scope, we are developing biocompatible processes that combine biocatalytic reactions with chemo‐catalysis in single‐flask processes. Here, we show that a chemocatalysed Pictet‐Spengler annulation can be interfaced with biocatalysed alcohol oxidation. This two‐step, one‐pot cascade reaction converts tyramine and aliphatic alcohols to tetrahydroisoquinoline alkaloids in aqueous buffer at mild pH. Tryptamine derivatives are also efficiently converted to tryptolines. Optimization of stoichiometry, pH, reaction time, and whole‐cell catalyst deliver the tetrahydroisouinolines and tryptolines in >90 % and >40 % isolated yield, respectively, with excellent regioselectivity.
Oxide‐derived Silver Nanowires for CO2 Electrocatalytic Reduction to CO
Authors: Mattarozzi Francesco , van der Willige Nolan , Gulino Valerio , Keijzer Claudia , van de Poll Rim C. J. , Hensen Emiel J. M. , Ngene Peter , de Jongh Petra E.
Published: October 2023

Silver electrocatalysts offer the possibility to produce CO by converting CO2, enabling the use of a greenhouse gas as chemical building block. Compared to nanoparticles, silver nanowires show an enhanced selectivity towards CO. Recent publications proved that oxide‐derived electrocatalysts can exhibit better catalytic performance than the pristine metal phase, but oxide‐derived silver nanowires have not been investigated. In this work, we report for the first time the electrocatalytic properties of silver nanowires, synthesized via the polyol method, and pretreated by electrochemical oxidation in basic electrolyte. By increasing the oxidation potential, both the percentage of AgxO and the surface roughness of the catalyst were progressively increased. The most oxidized sample showed a remarkably improved CO selectivity (−294.2 mA m−2Ag), producing a 3.3‐fold larger CO partial current density than the pristine sample (−89.4 mA m−2Ag), normalized by electrochemically active silver surface area. This work demonstrates the beneficial effect of the controlled oxidation treatment even on highly selective nanostructures such as silver nanowires.
First Use of Thiosquaramides as Polymerization Catalysts: Controlled ROP of Lactide Implicating Key Secondary Interactions for Optimal Performance
Authors: Printz Gaël , Ryzhakov Dmytro , Gourlaouen Christophe , Jacques Béatrice , Messaoudi Samir , Dumas Françoise , Le Bideau Franck , Dagorne Samuel
Published: October 2023

We herein report the first use of thiosquaramides as polymerization catalysts, which are shown to be effective for the controlled ROP of lactide in the presence of an alcohol source and NEt3. Comparison of their catalytic performances with the less acidic squaramides are also discussed. The observed catalytic activity of variously N‐substituted thiosquaramides suggest that a balanced NH Brønsted acidity is required for optimal performance. Most interestingly and rather unexpectedly, DFT‐supported calculations on thiosquaramide‐mediated lactide ROP catalysis suggest that secondary interactions between the thiosquaramide N‐substituents and the incoming lactide (presently of type C‐H⋅⋅⋅π‐arene) are crucial for catalytic activity. Though this type of interactions is quite common in organo‐catalysis, it has rarely been evidenced to play a key role in the area of organo‐catalyzed polymerizations. Such catalyst substituents/substrate interactions may well play a significant role in the catalytic performances of various other systems.
Hölder regularity of the Boltzmann equation past an obstacle
Authors: Kim Chanwoo , Lee Donghyun
Published: October 2023

Regularity and singularity of the solutions according to the shape of domains is a challenging research theme in the Boltzmann theory. In this paper, we prove an Hölder regularity in for the Boltzmann equation of the hard‐sphere molecule, which undergoes the elastic reflection in the intermolecular collision and the contact with the boundary of a convex obstacle. In particular, this Hölder regularity result is a stark contrast to the case of other physical boundary conditions (such as the diffuse reflection boundary condition and in‐flow boundary condition), for which the solutions of the Boltzmann equation develop discontinuity in a codimension 1 subset (Kim [Comm. Math. Phys. 308 (2011)]), and therefore the best possible regularity is BV, which has been proved by Guo et al. [Arch. Rational Mech. Anal. 220 (2016)].
A weighted average mixed feedback control method based on LCL‐type grid‐connected inverter
Authors: Li Yulong , Yang Ming , Yang Zhuo , Zhu Jun
Published: October 2023

The weighted average current (WAC) control method has gained recognition for its order reduction characteristics and broad control bandwidth. However, the interaction of digital control delay and grid impedance introduces an inverse resonance peak in the system loop gain, challenging the order reduction properties of conventional WAC control and system passivity across a wide frequency range. Conventional approaches, such as lead compensator‐based delay compensation or weighting coefficient redesign, improve system stability to some extent but fail to retain order reduction characteristics. To address these limitations, this article proposes a new control method known as weighted average mixed feedback, incorporating distinct voltage feedforward paths. By introducing a voltage feedback path, the proposed method reconfigures the system's zero positions, enabling the pole‐zero cancelation in the open‐loop characteristics independent of grid impedance. Additionally, this supplementary path offers impedance reshaping capabilities, enhancing system passivity and adaptability to weak grids. The effectiveness of the proposed control method is verified through simulations and experiments.
Review on single‐phase high‐frequency resonant inverters for current sharing in multiple inverter system
Authors: Pengyu Zhang , Junfeng Liu , Mingze Ma , Zijie Fang , Hao Zhou , Jun Zeng
Published: October 2023

Single‐phase high‐frequency resonant inverters (SPHFRIs) with high power density, fast dynamic response, and high energy conversion efficiency have been widely studied and used in academia and industry. With the development of the modularization concept, the operation of multiple inverter modules is desirable because it can remove the limitations of cost, heat dissipation, and component volume in single inverter operation. However, a critical challenge in multiple inverter systems is that the both the phase and magnitude of the output voltage of each inverter module must be controllable to eliminate circulating currents between inverter modules. Great efforts have been made to solve this problem from three aspects: topology, modulation, and control strategy. In this paper, modulation strategies and topologies of different inverters are presented and reviewed to provide guidance to researchers working in this field. Firstly, multiple inverter system based on the SPHFRI is described and its advantages and disadvantages are analyzed. An important issue in the study of multiple inverter systems is presented, that is, the suppression of circulating current. Secondly, the circulating currents in a multiple inverter system are analyzed and derived from two aspects: (1) magnitude and phase angle and (2) active and reactive currents. Thirdly, the inverters used in the multiple inverter system are introduced, and their operating principles, advantages, and disadvantages are reviewed. A key comparison of several inverters is presented for the benefit of the readers. Fourth, through PI closed‐loop simulation, the performance of different multiple inverter systems for suppressing the circulating current is compared in two situations: (1) with magnitude discrepancy only and (2) with both magnitude and phase discrepancy. Finally, the advantages and disadvantages of each inverter are summarized, and the state of the art and future trends are presented.
Manufacturing of Electric Double‐Layer Capacitors Using Carbon Nanocoils and Evaluation of their Specific Capacitances at a High Scan Rate
Authors: IZUMI HARUTAKA , SUDA YOSHIYUKI , OKABE YUTA , TAKIKAWA HIROFUMI , TANOUE HIDETO , UE HITOSHI , SHIMIZU KAZUKI
Published: October 2023

Electric double‐layer capacitors (EDLCs) have problems that the specific capacitance decreases by increasing the scan rate. In this study, activated carbon (AC) and various carbon nanomaterials are compared by their specific capacitances. Carbon nanomaterials used in this study were arc‐black (AcB) which was prepared by an arc discharge and carbon nanocoil (CNC) which was prepared by a chemical vapor deposition. CNC and AcB showed the lower charge transfer resistance than AC in the measurement of electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). This is a reason that the EDLCs using CNC and AcB kept their specific capacitance almost the same even at a high scan rate.
Photoluminescence and Radiation Luminescence in a Hybrid Cuprous (I) Halide: (4,4‐Difluoro‐bipiperidinium)3Cu2I5
Authors: Cheng Yan , Zhu Bing‐Jun , Zhang Ya‐Di , Yao Hai‐Quan , Feng Yan , Shi Chao , Miao Le‐Ping , Ye Heng‐Yun
Published: October 2023

Copper (I) based halide scintillators have received high attention due to their high light yield. At the same time, researchers are increasingly interested in exploring organic‐inorganic hybrid copper(I) based halides, due to the diversity and tunability of structures. Here, we describe high‐efficiency photoluminescence and X‐ray excited luminescence in (DFPD)3Cu2I5 (1) (DFPD=4,4‐difluoro‐bipiperidinium). 1 is comprised of a unique [Cu2I5]3− cluster, which have typical structure allowing high‐transition‐probability self‐trapped exciton emission (one Cu+ ion adopts the tetrahedral coordination geometry, the other trigonal planar coordination geometry, the Cu−Cu distance (2.574 Å) is short). Accordingly, 1 shows efficient yellow‐green photoluminescence with the maximum at 527 nm, a full‐width at half‐maximum of 99.2 nm, a large Stokes shift of 214 nm (1.6 eV) and a quantum yield of 77.15 %. Polycrystalline 1 can also convert high‐energy X‐ray photons into UV‐visible pulsed fluorescence with the light yield of 5000 photons/MeV. This finding plays a valuable role in the development of organic‐inorganic hybrid copper(I) based scintillators.
The adaptation of the desirability of outcome ranking for interventional clinical trials in epilepsy: A novel consumer‐led outcome measure
Authors: Vivash Lucy , Johns Hannah , O'Brien Terence J. , Churilov Leonid
Published: October 2023

Interventional clinical trials in epilepsy are typically designed and powered to detect a change in seizure frequency as the primary endpoint, with little consideration given to other benefits or harms of the therapy, or impacts on common epilepsy comorbidities. Desirability of outcome ranking (DOOR) is a novel methodology for evaluating benefits and harms associated with introduction of a new treatment. Multiple outcomes are combined and the resulting combinations are ranked according to their desirability. Herein we describe the adaptation of DOOR for use in therapy trials in epilepsy. Consumers with epilepsy were presented with a selection of measures typically included in epilepsy trials and asked to rank their importance in terms of a desirable outcome and to identify interactions between different seizure control levels and other measures. Seizure control, adverse events, and psychiatric comorbidities were identified as most important, and combinations of these outcomes were ranked to form epilepsy‐DOOR. A separate consumer discussion group verified the appropriateness and accuracy of the ranking. The resultant epilepsy‐DOOR includes 60 possible outcomes, representing high granularity for the assessment of future interventions. It demonstrates the importance of consumer involvement in trial design and presents an alternative to seizure frequency for evaluating new treatments for epilepsy.
Design and validation of a scale of core components of community interventions in mental health
Authors: Agudelo‐Hernández Felipe , Rojas‐Andrade Rodrigo
Published: October 2023

Aims

To develop and validate an instrument to identify the core components of community strategies for mental health, especially mutual aid groups: The Mutual Aid Scale .

Methods

135 community strategies leaders participated in the study. The core components are active agency, coping strategies, recognition, and management of emotions, problem‐solving strategies, supportive interaction, trust, self‐identity construction, and strengthening of social networks. With these components a scale was designed. Content validity was carried out in addition to an exploratory factor analysis.

Results

Two dimensions resulted, strengthening of agency capacity and Coping strategies, and the internal consistency of both factors was acceptable, with a Cronbach's alpha of 0.722 and 0.727, respectively. The Kaiser‐Meyer‐Olkin (KMO) statistic was used with a score of 0.831 and the Barlett Sphericity Test, with a significant value of 265.175.

Conclusion

This scale identifies the components of community interventions for mental health and can contribute to a better implementation of these strategies. It also articulates autonomous community processes with strategies developed in health services.
Approach to managing obesity in parrots
Authors: Chitty John
Published: October 2023

Background: Obesity is an important issue in birds. As in other species it results from an imbalance between dietary calorie intake and calorie usage. Therefore, its causes and management require knowledge of the normal diet and biological activities of these species. Although causes and effects of obesity are largely similar across species boundaries, there is sufficient diversity between bird groups and species that this article will concentrate on just one group – the Psittacidae (parrots and cockatoos).

Aim of the article: This article discusses the issue of obesity and its causes, as well as the recognition of the problem and the consequences of obesity in parrots. It also covers the management of obesity and its prevention.
Putting yourself first: awareness, regulation, care and development
Authors: Elwood Clive
Published: October 2023

How you behave models behaviour for others; for example, if you can be compassionate, relaxed and show humour while getting the job done enthusiastically, effectively and efficiently, you will help create a positive and psychologically safe workplace. Therefore, leading yourself is a vital skill. This article looks at how we can lead ourselves through consideration of self‐awareness and regulation, and sustain ourselves through self‐development and care.
Hyperchloremic metabolic acidosis after plasma exchange in a patient with renal transplant rejection: A case report
Authors: Simon S.S.A. , van Sandwijk M.S. , Olde Engberink R.H.G.
Published: October 2023

Therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) is an effective treatment for several renal disorders, including renal transplant rejection. However, repeated plasma exchanges can result in various metabolic disturbances and complications. We present a 61‐year old male with a medical history of type 2 diabetes, hypertension, successfully treated multiple myeloma, and a post‐mortem kidney transplantation 7 months prior to presentation. The patient was hospitalized with an antibody‐mediated transplant rejection for which treatment with methylprednisolone, TPE with a 40 g/L albumin solution as a replacement fluid, and intravenous immunoglobulins was initiated. After four TPE treatments, the patient developed gastrointestinal complaints and muscle weakness. Despite daily oral bicarbonate supplementation, laboratory tests revealed a hyperchloremic metabolic acidosis: bicarbonate 11.7 mmol/L, chloride 111 mmol/L, and sodium 138 mmol/L. Metabolic acidosis due to citrate accumulation was ruled out with a normal total‐to‐ionized calcium ratio. After treatment with intravenous bicarbonate supplementation, the symptoms disappeared. Analysis of the albumin solution showed a chloride concentration of 132 mmol/L. This is the first case that describes severe metabolic acidosis after multiple sessions of TPE with an albumin solution in a patient with impaired renal function. The hyperchloremic metabolic acidosis is the result of administration of large volumes of an albumin solution with high chloride concentrations. Special attention should be paid to the acid–base balance during TPE in patients with impaired renal function. Future research should investigate the incidence of hyperchloremic metabolic acidosis during TPE in patients with impaired renal function.
Central nervous system Aspergillus quadrilineatus infection in a COVID‐19 patient, a case report and literature review
Authors: Amirizad Kazem , Ghazanfari Mona , Javidnia Javad , Abastabar Mahdi , Haghi Ashtiani Mohammad Taghi , Sotoudeh Anvari Maryam , Fathi Maryam , Espahbodi Amirreza , Badali Hamid , Hedayati Mohammad Taghi , Haghani Iman , Seyedmousavi Seyedmojtaba
Published: October 2023

Background

Viral pneumonia such as COVID‐19‐associated aspergillosis could increase susceptibility to fungal super‐infections in critically ill patients.

Methods

Here we report a pediatric case of Aspergillus quadrilineatus cerebral infection in a recently diagnosed COVID‐19‐positive patient underlying acute lymphocytic leukemia. Morphological, molecular methods, and sequencing were used to identify this emerging species.

Results

Histopathological examination showed a granulomatous necrotic area containing dichotomously branching septate hyphae indicating a presumptive Aspergillus structure. The species‐level identity of isolate growing on brain biopsy culture was confirmed by PCR sequencing of the β‐tubulin gene as A. quadrilineatus. Using the CLSI M38‐A3 broth microdilution methodology, the in vitro antifungal susceptibility testing demonstrated 0.032 μg/mL MIC for posaconazole, caspofungin, and anidulafungin and 8 μg/mL against amphotericin B. A combination of intravenous liposomal amphotericin B and caspofungin therapy for 8 days did not improve the patient's condition. The patient gradually continued to deteriorate and expired.

Conclusions

This is the first COVID‐19‐associated cerebral aspergillosis due to A. quadrilineatus in a pediatric patient with acute lymphocytic leukemia. However, comprehensive screening studies are highly recommended to evaluate its frequency and antifungal susceptibility profiles. Before being recommended as first‐line therapy in high‐risk patients, more antifungal susceptibility data are needed.
Vaginal leiomyoma: Advantages of clinical sonovaginography and ultrasound dynamic evaluation of uterine cervix‐related lesions
Authors: do Amaral Cristiana Coutinho , Castro Pedro Teixeira , Frota Rachel , de Freitas Lima Luiz Alberto Coutinho , Sobreira Iris , Araujo Júnior Edward , Werner Heron
Published: October 2023

Evaluation of vaginal leiomyoma by dynamic transvaginal ultrasound improves the diagnosis, with the impact on surgical planning, and surgical outcomes.

Sonovaginography using three‐dimensional ultrasound allows the assessment of spatial relationship between the cervix and the tumor.
Dietary salt intake and diabetes complications in patients with diabetes: An overview
Authors: Horikawa Chika , Sone Hirohito
Published: October 2023

Dietary salt restriction is an essential constituent of diabetes care in preventing or slowing the development of diabetes complications, and many diabetes management guidelines include recommendations for dietary salt intake. However, descriptions of guidelines for salt intake are sometimes confined to studies of participants without diabetes or small short‐term studies of patients with diabetes. However, in response to such situations, recent longitudinal studies of patients with diabetes have reported an association between dietary salt intake and diabetes complications. Thus, this review summarizes important points in the current situation regarding guidelines on salt intake and the latest findings and future issues on dietary salt intake for diabetes care focusing on (i) the current status and issues regarding the leading guidelines for dietary salt intake for diabetes care in various regions worldwide, and (ii) findings on salt intake from recent longitudinal studies of patients with diabetes whose dietary salt intake was restricted.
Bath‐related deaths: Preventive strategies and suggestions for general physicians
Authors: Suzuki Hideto , Hikiji Wakako , Fukunaga Tatsushige
Published: October 2023

Bath‐related deaths occur frequently in Japan, particularly in the elderly population; however, this fact is not sufficiently well known by the public. The advent of a super‐aging society will expose general physicians to more cases of fatal and nonfatal bath‐related accidents. As many of the victims have one or more lifestyle‐related diseases, general physicians will play a more important role in preventing these fatalities in the future. In addition, general physicians may have to perform postmortem examinations in these cases. This review article addresses the latest studies on bath‐related deaths from various medical departments, including forensic medicine, emergency medicine, and physiology. We also discuss preventive strategies based on the assumed mechanisms, and because Japan does not have a well‐developed system of medical examiners, we also provide suggestions for physicians who will encounter bath‐related deaths in the future.
Efficacy of local treatment for isolated liver metastasis after pancreatectomy in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma: A propensity score‐matched analysis
Authors: Yun Won‐Gun , Han Youngmin , Lee Mirang , Cho Young Jae , Jung Hye‐Sol , Kwon Wooil , Jang Jin‐Young
Published: October 2023

Background

Although attempts of local treatment for isolated liver recurrence in patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) have increased, the efficacy remains unclear. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the effect of local treatment for recurrent liver lesions after pancreatectomy on the survival of patients with PDAC.

Methods

Patients who were diagnosed with isolated liver recurrence after pancreatectomy at a high‐volume center were included. We classified these patients based on the treatment options after recurrence and performed propensity score matching to minimize confounding.

Results

Median with interquartile range survival after recurrence was significantly longer for patients who underwent local treatment for recurrent liver lesions plus chemotherapy (22.0 [17.0–29.0] months) than those treated with chemotherapy alone (13.0 [7.0–21.0] months, p = .027). In multivariate analysis, not only local treatment for recurrent liver lesions plus chemotherapy (hazard ratio [95% confidence interval], 0.55 [0.32–0.94]; p = .030) but also indicators for systemically controlled tumor such as late recurrence (0.57 [0.35–0.92]; p = .021), chemotherapy for ≥6 months (0.25 [0.15–0.42]; p < .001), and disease control by chemotherapy (0.36 [0.22–0.60]; p < .001) were identified as favorable prognostic factors.

Conclusions

PDAC patients with stable recurrent liver lesions should be considered a candidate for local treatment.
The return of the “Mistigri” (virus adaptative gain by gene loss) through the SARS‐CoV‐2 XBB.1.5 chimera that predominated in 2023
Authors: Colson Philippe , Delerce Jérémy , Fantini Jacques , Pontarotti Pierre , La Scola Bernard , Raoult Didier
Published: October 2023

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 XBB.1.5 is the first recombinant lineage to predominate at the country and global scales. Very interestingly, like the Marseille‐4B subvariant (or B.1.160) and the pandemic variant B.1.1.7 (or Alpha) previously, it has its ORF8 gene inactivated by a stop codon. We aimed here to study the distribution of stop codons in ORF8 of XBB.1.5 and non‐XBB.1.5 genomes. We identified that a stop codon was present at 89 (74%) ORF8 codons in ≥1 of 15 222 404 genomes available in GISAID. The mean proportion of genomes with a stop codon per codon was 0.11% (range, 0%–7.8%). In addition, a stop codon was detected at 15 (12%) codons in at least 1000 genomes. These 15 codons are notably located on seven stem‐loop hairpin regions and in the signal peptide region for the case of the XBB.1.5 lineage (codon 8). Thus, it is very likely that stop codons in ORF8 gene contributed on at least three occasions and independently during the pandemic to the evolutionary success of a lineage that became transiently predominant. Such association of gene loss with evolutionary success, which suits the recently described Mistigri rule, is an important biological phenomenon very unknown in virology while largely described in cellular organisms.
Beta‐hydroxy‐β‐methyl butyrate‐supplemented diet for broiler chickens is more conducive to dietary protein reduction than a leucine‐supplemented diet until 21 days old
Authors: Kop Bozbay Canan , Yılmaz Berkan , Ocak Nuh
Published: October 2023

BACKGROUND

Dietary l‐leucine or its metabolite 𝛽‐hydroxy‐𝛽‐methylbutyrate (HMB) has a crucial role in the muscle protein metabolism of broilers during the first few‐week growing period. The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of l‐leucine (LLPD) or HMB (HLPD) supplementation in a low‐protein diet (20%, LPD) until 21 days old on performance, carcass weight, muscle yield and meat quality, as well as intestinal morphometry, in broiler chickens.

RESULTS

From days 1–42, LPD decreased body weight gain and feed intake (FI) and increased feed conversion ratio compared to a standard protein diet (22%, SPD). The LLPD and HLPD did not affect FI, but the LLPD decreased the body weight gain and increased the feed conversion ratio compared to the SPD. The LPD group had lower body and muscle weights than other groups. Compared to LPD, HLPD increased dressing percentage. The LPD decreased the serum insulin‐like growth factor‐1 content compared to the SPD and LLPD. The duodenal villus height of the LPD and LLPD broilers was smaller than those of the SPD and HLPD birds. The HLPD broilers had lower duodenal villus width than the SPD birds. The duodenal crypt depth and ileal mucosal thickness were higher in the HLPD group than in other groups. The HLPD and LLPD enhanced the ileal villus height compared to the SPD. The LLPD and HLPD treatments did not affect meat quality traits compared to the SPD treatment.

CONCLUSION

Dietary HMB could be a conducive approach to reducing dietary protein for broilers until 21 days old. © 2023 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Growth kinetics of Lactococcus lactis and Lactobacillus casei in liquid culture medium containing as prebiotics inulin or fructose
Authors: Montes Yessenia Maribel García , Calle Edwin Rafael Vera , Terán Stalin Gustavo Santacruz , García Marlon Reinaldo Castro , Nájera Jenny Cumandá Ruales , Vera Mario René Lopez
Published: October 2023

BACKGROUND

Predictive microbiology is a tool that allows us to evaluate the behavior of the concentration of biomass and estimated cells under extrinsic conditions, providing scientific and industrial benefits. In the present study, the growth of L. lactis and L. casei combined with inulin and fructose was modeled using the Gompertz sigmoidal growth functions and plotted using data obtained from batch culture in relation to biomass and cell concentration expressed as estimates in ln N (OD600nm and cells mL−1) as a function of time.

RESULTS

The results of the kinetic modeling indicated that (T1) A1B1 = L. lactis + fructose and (T4) A2B2 = L. casei + inulin presented the best function coefficients and best fits in most cases compared to the rest. The specific growth rate of the maximum acceleration was from 0.364 to 0.473 h−1 and 0.100 to 0.129 h−1, the concentration of bacterial cells (A) was from 0.556 to 0.713 and 0.425 to 0.548 respectively and the time where (μ) occurred with a greater magnitude (L) fluctuated between 0.854 and 0.802 and when this time in (L) is very fast, it presents values of ≤0.072 to ≤0.092. Its coefficient of determination and/or multiple regression (R2) obtained in the two adjustments was 0.97.

CONCLUSION

It was possible to predict the influence of the carbon source on the behavior of maximum growth rates, higher consumption due to nutrient affinity and shorter growth time. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Combining Alginate/PVPI‐Based Film with Frequency Rhythmic Electrical Modulation System (FREMS) Technology as an Advanced Strategy for Diabetic Wounds
Authors: Contardi Marco , Summa Maria , Lenzuni Martina , Miracoli Luigi , Bertora Franco , Mendez Maurizio Diaz , Athanassiou Athanassia , Bertorelli Rosalia
Published: October 2023

Diabetes is rising as one of the most diffused diseases of the century with the related urgent necessity to face its systemic and local effects on the patients, such as cardiovascular problems, degeneration of limbs, and dysfunction of the wound healing process. The diffusion of leg ulcers has been estimated to be 1.51 for 1000 population, and these non‐resolved wounds can produce several social, economic, and mental health issues in diabetic patients. At the same time, these people experience neuropathic pain that causes morbidity and a further decrease in their quality of life. Here, a new study is presented where asodium alginate/Polyvinylpyrrolidone‐Iodine complex (PVPI)‐based wound dressing is combined with the Frequency Rhythmic Electrical Modulation System (FREMS) technology, an established medical device for the treatment of neuropathic pain and diabetic ulcers. The produced Alginate/PVPI‐based films are characterized in terms of morphology, chemistry, wettability, bio‐/hemo‐compatibility, and clotting capacity. Next, the Alginate/PVPI‐based films are used together with FREMS technology in diabetic mice models, and synergism of their action in the wound closure rate and anti‐inflammatory properties is found. Hence, how the combination of electrical neurostimulation devices and advanced wound dressings can be a new approach to improve chronic wound treatment is demonstrated.
Erythrocytic α‐Synuclein and the Gut Microbiome: Kindling of the Gut‐Brain Axis in Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Yang Ying , Stewart Tessandra , Zhang Can , Wang Pan , Xu Zhi , Jin Jinghua , Huang Yang , Liu Zongran , Lan Guoyu , Liang Xingguang , Sheng Lifu , Shi Min , Cai Zhijian , Zhang Jing
Published: October 2023

Background

Progressive spreading of α‐synuclein via gut‐brain axis has been hypothesized in the pathogenesis of Parkinson's disease (PD). However, the source of seeding‐capable α‐synuclein in the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) has not been fully investigated. Additionally, the mechanism by which the GIT microbiome contributes to PD pathogenesis remains to be characterized.

Objectives

We aimed to investigate whether blood‐derived α‐synuclein might contribute to PD pathology via a gut‐driven pathway and involve GIT microbiota.

Methods

The GIT expression of α‐synuclein and the transmission of extracellular vesicles (EVs) derived from erythrocytes/red blood cells (RBCs), with their cargo α‐synuclein, to the GIT were explored with various methods, including radioactive labeling of RBC‐EVs and direct analysis of the transfer of α‐synuclein protein. The potential role of microbiota on the EVs transmission was further investigated by administering butyrate, the short‐chain fatty acids produced by gut microbiota and studying mice with different α‐synuclein genotypes.

Results

This study demonstrated that RBC‐EVs can effectively transport α‐synuclein to the GIT in a region‐dependent manner, along with variations closely associated with regional differences in the expression of gut‐vascular barrier markers. The investigation further revealed that the infiltration of α‐synuclein into the GIT was influenced significantly by butyrate and α‐synuclein genotypes, which may also affect the GIT microbiome directly.

Conclusion

By demonstrating the transportation of α‐synuclein through RBC‐EVs to the GIT, and its potential association with gut‐vascular barrier markers and gut microbiome, this work highlights a potential mechanism by which RBC α‐synuclein may impact PD initiation and/or progression. © 2023 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Modeling of stratified two‐phase flows with non‐uniform evaporation based on the exact solution of convection equations
Authors: Bekezhanova Victoria B. , Goncharova Olga N.
Published: October 2023

Within the framework of the Oberbeck–Boussinesq approximation, the exact solution of equations of thermoconcentration convection is studied, which has the group origin. The issue of applicability of the exact solution for describing steady‐state convective flows of a liquid and a co‐current gas flux under the conditions of inhomogeneous evaporation of the diffusive type in a flat horizontal channel is discussed. Algorithms for obtaining analytical representations of the required functions for various types of the boundary conditions for the temperature function on the outer channel wall are proposed. The influence of the external thermal load and boundary thermal conditions on the structure of the velocity and temperature fields, evaporation mass flow rate, and vapor content in the gas layer is investigated at an example of the HFE‐7100–nitrogen system. The solution correctly predicts hydrodynamical, temperature, and concentration parameters of convective regimes appearing in the two‐phase system. The main characteristics are compared with the characteristics of the system in the case of uniform evaporation with a constant intensity.
Dimensions of Large‐Sized Network Polymers Formed in Miniemulsion Polymerization
Authors: Tobita Hidetaka
Published: October 2023

The mean‐square radius of gyration of network polymers can be correlated with the graph diameter, and the fraction d of segments located in the diameter chain is used to investigate the dimensions of large‐sized network polymers whose cycle rank is over 103. A simplified Monte Carlo simulation model for the miniemulsion vinyl/divinyl copolymerization is used for the generation of large‐sized network polymers, assuming the classical chemical kinetics are valid. Both conventional free‐radical polymerization and living polymerization are considered, and the heterogeneity of network architecture is controlled by changing the reactivity ratio of double bond in divinyl monomer with respect to that in vinyl monomer. The network maturity index (NMI) which is the cycle rank per primary chain is used to represent the degree of development of the network architecture. As the NMI increases to be well‐developed, the calibrated d, defined by dc = d/fd where fd is a calibration constant that shows the degree of network heterogeneity, starts to follow the master curve. This characteristic behavior applies regardless of the polymerization mechanism and the heterogeneity of the formed network architecture. Detailed characteristics of the master curve and prospects for application to gel molecules are also discussed.
In vivo measurement of T1 in the vitreous humor of patients with ischemic retinal disease
Authors: Simpson Andrew R. H. , Hughes Edward H. , Mullen Lisa , Dowell Nicholas G.
Published: October 2023

Purpose

To demonstrate MR T1 mapping in vivo as a method to non‐invasively estimate vitreous oxygen concentration in ischemic eye disease.

Methods

Patients with ischemic eye disease (central retinal vein occlusion, ocular ischemic syndrome, and proliferative diabetic retinopathy) were prospectively recruited. MRI was performed on each patient before any treatment, with T1 mapping acquired using an inversion recovery TrueFISP sequence at several inversion times, from a single slice positioned through the center of both eyes in the axial oblique plane. A phantom study measuring seven different concentrations of vitronectin, a protein released in ischemic eye disease, was undertaken to determine its potential confounding effect on T1.

Results

Ten participants were recruited (eight central retinal vein occlusion, one ocular ischemic syndrome, and one proliferative diabetic retinopathy). Of the eight central retinal vein occlusion cases, there was a statistically different vitreous T1 in the diseased eye compared to the healthy control eye (4.306 vs. 4.518 s, p = 0.008). T1 times did not significantly alter across the range of vitronectin concentrations.

Conclusions

Ischemic eye disease decreases vitreous T1, potentially implying an increase in vitreous partial pressure of oxygen (pO2) concentration given what is known from the relationship between 1/T1 and pO2. Potential theories for this unexpected result are discussed. This study provides further data on this technique, with potential clinical application in eye disease.
A rolling horizon framework for the time‐dependent multi‐visit dynamic safe street snow plowing problem
Authors: Fröhlich Georg E. A. , Gansterer Margaretha , Doerner Karl F.
Published: October 2023

As a major real‐world problem, snow plowing has been studied extensively. However, most studies focus on deterministic settings with little urgency yet enough time to plan. In contrast, we assume a severe snowstorm with little known data and little time to plan. We introduce a novel time‐dependent multi‐visit dynamic safe street snow plowing problem and formulate it on a rolling‐horizon‐basis. To solve this problem, we develop an adaptive large neighborhood search as the underlying method and validate its efficacy on team orienteering arc routing problem benchmark instances. We create real‐world‐based instances for the city of Vienna and examine the effect of (i) different snowstorm movements, (ii) having perfect information, and (iii) different information‐updating intervals and look‐aheads for the rolling horizon method. Our findings show that different snowstorm movements have no significant effect on the choice of rolling horizon settings. They also indicate that (i) larger updating intervals are beneficial, if prediction errors are low, and (ii) larger look‐aheads are better suited for larger updating intervals and vice versa. However, we observe that less look‐ahead is needed when prediction errors are low.
Intersectionality in nursing research: A systematic review
Authors: Siira Elin , Linden Karolina , Wallström Sara , Björkman Ida
Published: October 2023

Aim

This systematic literature review aimed to identify, appraise and synthesize available research studies that apply intersectionality in nursing research.

Design

Systematic review.

Data Sources

Empirical and theoretical nursing studies published before February 2022 were identified from the PubMed and CINAHL databases. Studies were eligible for inclusion if they substantially covered the topics of intersectionality and nursing, had undergone peer‐review, and were written in English.

Review Methods

The PRISMA 2020 statement for reporting systematic reviews was used to report findings. The Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal tools were used to assess the quality of the included research studies.

Results

Out of 331 identified studies, 60 studies were substantially about nursing and intersectionality, and were included in the review. There are a myriad of ways that the concept of intersectionality has been adopted in nursing research. Furthermore, there was great heterogeneity in the definition and application of the concept of intersectionality, and only a few studies were empirical.

Conclusion

There is a need for robust and clear framing of how the concept of intersectionality is defined and understood in nursing research. There is also a need for more empirical research effectively adopting the concept of intersectionality to enhance our understanding of how health inequities operate within the field of nursing.

No Patient or Public Contribution

No patients, service users, caregivers or members of the public were involved in this work.