bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Critical considerations for the positive memory‐posttraumatic stress disorder model
Authors: Contractor Ateka A. , Banducci Anne N. , Weiss Nicole H.
Published: April 2021

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) includes changes in processes such as encoding and retrieval for both traumatic and positive memories. However, most work has predominantly focused on traumatic memories. Thus, Contractor and colleagues proposed a Positive Memory‐PTSD model, which highlighted potential benefits associated with and mechanisms underlying positive memory retrieval/processing among individuals reporting PTSD symptoms. To enhance research on and clinical impacts of this model, the current review provides critical considerations for the Positive Memory‐PTSD model. Drawing from emerging research and clinical observations, we (i) clarify that the model addresses specific versus overgeneral positive memories; (ii) underscore the importance of considering the heterogeneity in, and transitionary nature of, affect processes following positive memory retrieval; and (iii) highlight the rationale for considering trauma type/count and co‐occurring conditions, as potential moderators of relations between positive memory processing and PTSD. Hereby, we provide an updated Positive Memory‐PTSD model and implications for positive memory interventions drawing from this model.
A systematic review of the implementation of psychological therapies in acute mental health inpatient settings
Authors: Evlat Gamze , Wood Lisa , Glover Naomi
Published: April 2021

Objectives

Research has demonstrated that psychological therapies are not routinely delivered in acute mental health inpatient settings despite being recommended by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidelines. This study aimed to identify the barriers and facilitators to implementing psychological therapies in acute mental health inpatient settings.

Methods

A systematic review and narrative synthesis was undertaken. Primary studies were included if they examined the implementation of a NICE recommended psychological therapy in acute psychiatric inpatient settings and were of any study design. Four databases were searched for eligible studies (MEDLINE, CINAHL Plus, PsycINFO and Embase) and Google Scholar.

Results

A total of 16 studies (a mixture of both qualitative and quantitative methodologies) were included in the review, and the majority evaluated the implementation of Cognitive Behaviour Therapy. Overall, the literature was deemed to be of poor to moderate quality. The main barriers to the implementation of psychological therapy were the busy nature of the ward, multi‐disciplinary professionals not being suitability trained and the acute nature of service users mental health difficulties. Facilitators to implementation included the adaptation of interventions to be specifically delivered in the acute inpatient setting, training of multi‐disciplinary professionals, leadership support with the delivery of psychological therapies and prioritising the therapeutic relationship.

Conclusions

There is a requirement for senior management to prioritise the implementation of psychological therapies and update clinical guidelines to describe modifications necessary to implement psychological therapies in acute inpatient settings. Future research should improve their methodological quality and continue to develop the evidence base of brief psychological therapies in acute inpatient settings.
COVID‐19 pandemic leads to challenges, innovation
Authors: Hope Joan
Published: April 2021

The COVID‐19 pandemic has meant a year of challenges. We asked our Advisory Board members to share how they've addressed the challenges they have faced and what their plans are for moving forward.
Consider how free speech case could impact disability discrimination complaint resolutions
Authors: Charmatz Marc
Published: April 2021

While it may be too early to fully comprehend the ramification of Uzuegbunam v. Preczewski, 592 U.S. ___ (2021), the United States Supreme Court 8–1 recent decision authored by Justice Thomas may have a profound impact on colleges and universities because students with disabilities, indeed all students, may now be entitled to sue for nominal damages even after a postsecondary institution eliminates a discriminatory policy.
Termination
Authors: Lyerly Eric
Published: April 2021

An overview of the key topics faced by disability services providers with citations to noteworthy cases, statutes, regulations, and additional sources.
Long‐term detection of clodronate in equine plasma by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Garcia Patrice , Perot Isabelle , Loup Benoit , Balssa Frederic , Jaubert Murielle , Delcourt Vivian , Dujardin Chris , Popot Marie‐Agnes , Bailly‐Chouriberry Ludovic
Published: April 2021

Clodronate is a non‐nitrogen‐containing bisphosphonate drug approved in equine veterinary medicine. Clodronate is prohibited for use in competition horses; therefore, to set up an appropriate control, detection times and screening limits are required. The quantitative method in plasma consisted of addition of chloromethylene diphosphonic acid as internal standard. Automated sample preparation comprised a solid phase extraction with weak anion exchange properties on microplate. After methylation of the residue with trimethyl orthoacetate, analysis was conducted by high‐performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry. Using a weighting factor of 1/(concentration)2, good linearity was observed in the range of 1 to 500 ng/ml, with low limits of detection and quantification of 0.5 and 1 ng/ml, respectively. Precision and accuracy determined at four concentrations were satisfactory, with an error percentage less than 15%. Absence of carry‐over and good stability of clodronic acid in plasma after a long‐term storage at −20°C were verified. The method was successfully applied to the quantification of clodronic acid in plasma samples from horses administered with a single intramuscular administration of Osphos® at a mean dose of 1.43 ± 0.07 mg/kg. The observed detection time will be verified in a clinical population study conducted in diseased horses.
Estimation of breeding probability can make monitoring data more revealing: a case study of amphibians
Authors: Cruickshank Sam S. , Bergamini Ariel , Schmidt Benedikt R.
Published: April 2021

Monitoring programs serve to detect trends in the distribution and abundance of species. To do so, monitoring programs often use static state variables. Dynamic state variables that describe population dynamics might be more valuable because they allow for a mechanistic understanding of the processes that lead to population trends. We fit multistate occupancy models to data from a country‐wide multispecies amphibian occupancy monitoring program and estimated occupancy and breeding probabilities. If breeding probabilities are determinants of occupancy dynamics, then they may serve in monitoring programs as state variables that describe dynamic processes. The results showed that breeding probabilities were low and that a large proportion of the populations had to be considered to be non‐breeding populations (i.e., populations where adults are present but no breeding occurs). For some species, the majority of populations were non‐breeding populations. We found that non‐breeding populations have lower persistence probabilities than populations where breeding occurs. Breeding probabilities may thus explain trends in occupancy but they might also explain other ecological phenomena, such as the success of invasive species, which had high breeding probabilities. Signs of breeding, i.e., the presence of eggs and larvae, were often hard to detect. Importantly, non‐breeding populations also had low detection probabilities, perhaps because they had lower abundances. We suggest that monitoring programs should invest more in the detection of life history stages indicative of breeding, and also into the detection of non‐breeding populations. We conclude that breeding probability should be used as a state variable in monitoring programs because it can lead to deeper insights into the processes driving occupancy dynamics.
Stereoselective Synthesis of 4,5‐Dihydroisoxazole Derivatives from 1,1‐Dicyanocyclopropanes and Hydroxylamine Hydrochloride
Authors: Zhang Yue , Xin Junhu , Wang Cunde
Published: April 2021

An efficient approach was developed for the synthesis of 4,5‐dihydroisoxazole derivatives from substituted 1,1‐dicyano‐cyclopropanes and hydroxylamine hydrochloride in ethanol through FeCl3‐catalyzed cascade addition reactions. This procedure gives a useful method to afford stereoselectively poly‐substituted 4,5‐dihydroisoxazoles in good yields.
Small molecule natural compound targets the NF‐κB signaling and ameliorates the development of osteoarthritis
Authors: Xu Zhu , Shen Zhong‐hai , Wu Bin , Gong Sui‐liang , Chen Bin
Published: April 2021

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a multifactorial and chronic disease describing the destruction of cartilage that can lead to defects in the elderly. There is currently no practical strategy that can reverse the OA process. Here, we describe nepetin, a small natural compound with extracellular matrix (ECM) and inflammation regulating functions. In this study, we investigated the therapeutic effects of nepetin on interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β)‐induced inflammation in mice chondrocyte and OA model. In chondrocytes, treatment with nepetin inhibited the overexpression of pro‐inflammatory cytokines and mediators induced by IL‐1β. Moreover, pretreatment or posttreatment with nepetin also reduced the ECM catabolism and enhanced the ECM anabolism. Mechanistically, nepetin suppressed NF‐κB signaling pathway in IL‐1β stimulated chondrocyte. Meanwhile, our molecular docking studies indicated nepetin had a powerful binding capacity to p65. Furthermore, nepetin showed a protective and therapeutic effect on the mouse OA model. To sum up, this study indicated nepetin had a new potential therapeutic option in OA.
Baricitinib: From Rheumatoid Arthritis to COVID‐19
Authors: Assadiasl Sara , Fatahi Yousef , Mosharmovahed Banafsheh , Mohebbi Bahareh , Nicknam Mohammad Hossein
Published: April 2021

Baricitinib is a JAK1/2 inhibitor that was first approved for treating moderate to severe rheumatoid arthritis (RA) but that later showed considerable efficacy in the control of exaggerated inflammatory responses that occur in a wide range of diseases. There is a growing body of evidence, obtained from clinical trials and case reports, demonstrating clinical and paraclinical improvement in patients following administration of baricitinib including RA, systemic lupus erythematosus, psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, alopecia areata, interferon‐mediated autoinflammatory diseases, graft‐versus‐host disease, diabetic kidney disease, and, recently, coronavirus disease‐19. However, despite overall encouraging results, many adverse effects have been observed in baricitinib‐treated patients, ranging from simple infections to increased risk of malignancies, particularly in long‐term use. The significant efficacy of baricitinib, versus the probable adverse effects, urge further investigation before establishing it as a part of standard therapeutic protocols. Here, we have provided a review of the studies that have used baricitinib for treating various inflammatory disorders and summarized the advantages and disadvantages of its administration.
Facile preparation of immobilized naringinase on polyethylenimine/dopamine‐coated hydrothermal carbon spheres with high performance
Authors: Zheng Xinyu , Li Qian , Tian Jing , Zhan Honglei , Yu Chan , Wang Shujing , Sun Xitong , Sun Xiyan
Published: April 2021

BACKGROUND

Mussel‐inspired surface chemistry is recognized as a simple, efficient, and mild surface modification method, and has become a research hotspot in many fields. Hydrothermal carbon is a bio‐based material that is referred to as environmentally friendly renewable resource. In this study, the polyethylenimine (PEI)/dopamine (DA) was coated on the surface of hydrothermal carbon spheres using the co‐deposition method, making it possible to immobilize naringinase with high activity and operation stability. Subsequently, the optimal modification and immobilization conditions as well as enzyme properties were investigated.

RESULTS

The naringinase activity reached up to 461.14 U g–1 carrier, which was much higher than those of the previous works. Besides, the residual naringinase activity still kept 76.44% of the initial enzyme activity after one month of storage, and maintained 62.01% of the initial enzyme activity after eight reuse cycles.

CONCLUSION

Therefore, the strategy of the immobilized enzyme on PEI/DA coated hydrothermal carbon could be recognized as a promising and universal enzyme immobilization method with the advantages of high relative enzyme activity, high enzyme loading rate, high enzyme activity recovery rate, good operational stability, and facile and environmental friendly preparation route. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Investigation and comparison of biological effects of regioselectively synthesized thiazole derivatives
Authors: Moghaddam‐manesh Mohammadreza , Beyzaei Hamid , Heidari Majd Mostafa , Hosseinzadegan Sara , Ghazvini Kiarash
Published: April 2021

In this study, anticancer, antibacterial (against hospital‐isolated antibiotic‐resistant Escherichia coli strains), antifungal, and antioxidant effects of synthesized heterocyclic compounds 5 and 7 containing thiazole core were examined. Cytotoxicity testing was utilized against MCF‐7 breast cancer cells via MTT cell viability assay. Antibacterial and antifungal activities were checked out according to Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) guidelines, and antioxidant properties were evaluated through scavenging 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radicals. Results showed the viability of breast cancer cell lines was reliant on concentration of heterocycles and time of incubation. Synthetic compounds exhibited excellent antibacterial and antifungal properties base on their minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC), and minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC) values as well as high antioxidant activities according to their IC50 values. Higher anticancer and antibacterial properties were observed with compound 7; on the contrary, thiazole 5 had better antioxidant effects. They can be introduced as potent antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anticancer agents.
Antibacterial activities of hexadecanoic acid methyl ester and green‐synthesized silver nanoparticles against multidrug‐resistant bacteria
Authors: Shaaban Mohamed T. , Ghaly Mohamed F. , Fahmi Sara M.
Published: April 2021

Antibacterial drug resistance is considered one of the biggest threats to human health worldwide, and the overuse of antibiotics accelerates this problem. Multidrug‐resistant (MDR) bacteria are becoming harder to treat as the antibiotics used to treat them become less effective. Therefore, it is necessary to evaluate novel methods to control MDR bacteria. In this study, 40 bacterial isolates were collected from diabetic patients. The sensitivity of 40 bacterial isolates to seven antibiotics was evaluated. Four bacterial isolates were resistant to all antibiotic groups. The MDR pathogenic bacteria were selected and identified morphologically and biochemically and confirmed by VITEK® 2 system as follows: Staphylococcus aureus W35, Pseudomonas aeruginosa D31, Klebsiella pneumoniae DF30, and K. pneumoniae B40. Identification of the most resistant P. aeruginosa D31 was confirmed by the sequencing of a 16S ribosomal RNA gene with an accession number (MW241596). The inhibitory activity of eight types of native grown plant extracts against MDR bacteria was studied. Clove alcoholic extract (CAE) showed the highest inhibitory activity against MDR bacteria. Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry analysis of partially purified CAE at 0.9 Rf detected by thin‐layer chromatography showed an active compound named hexadecenoic acid methyl ester with the highest antimicrobial effect against clinical pathogenic bacteria. The formation of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) by CAE was studied. Evaluation of AgNPs was investigated by X‐ray diffraction, UV–Vis, and transmission electron microscopy. The antibacterial effect of AgNPs after 2, 4, and 6 days in light and dark conditions was evaluated. Finally, the AgNPs synthesized using CAE possess good inhibition activity against the tested pathogenic bacteria. As a result, the bactericidal components listed above were promising in reducing MDR bacteria and can be used for treatments of bacterial infection and in the development of safe products with a natural base.
The enamels of the first (soft‐paste) European blue‐and‐white porcelains: Rouen, Saint‐Cloud and Paris factories: Complementarity of Raman and X‐ray fluorescence analyses with mobile instruments to identify the cobalt ore
Authors: Colomban Philippe , Gironda Michele , Edwards Howell G. M. , Mesqui Viviane
Published: April 2021

The first porcelains made in Europe during the 17th century and the very beginning of the 18th century, that is, before the discovery of kaolin in Saxony (Germany), are rare and technical analyses very limited. In contrast with Meissen Böttger porcelain based on kaolin, these porcelains are made with sand and chymie, like Ottoman fritware. A selection of the blue‐and‐white artefacts belonging to the French national collection is analysed on‐site with mobile portable X‐ray fluorescence (pXRF) and Raman set‐ups: two were assigned to the Poterat Factory at Rouen, three to the Saint‐Cloud Factory and two to the Pavie Factory (Paris). Three types of enamels are identified, lead‐rich (as expected) but also two different lead‐alkaline‐earth alkali enamels, one artefact being covered both with lead‐rich and lead‐poor enamel. The polymerization index deduced from the relative intensity of SiO4 bending and stretching bands indicates different temperatures of firing. Tin is detected in most of the enamels by X‐ray fluorescence (XRF), but cassiterite opacification is only observed for the Pavie Factory artefacts. Arsenic is detected in the blue areas due to the use of European cobalt ores. Comparison of trace and minor elements as well as the type of enamel used suggest that the pot assigned to the Rouen Factory fits much better with a production from the Saint‐Cloud Factory. The two porcelains assigned to the Pavie Factory exhibit similar XRF and Raman signatures that support the attribution based on visual criteria. Combination of the mobile noninvasive XRF and Raman instruments may allow the reliable classification of artefacts on‐site. Raman scattering is very efficient to detect (on‐site) As‐based minor phases.
Robust Ion‐Selective Membrane for Redox Flow Batteries Based on Ultralow Sulfonation Degree Poly(Ether Sulfone)
Authors: Guo Dingyu , Zhou Xinjie , Zhang Zhuhan , Wang Feiran , Jiang Fengjing
Published: April 2021

Low‐cost and high‐performance ion‐conducting membranes are of urgent need for the large‐scale launch of vanadium redox flow batteries. In this work, sulfonated poly(ether sulfone) (SPES) with extremely low sulfonation degree of 5% is utilized to prepare ion‐selective membranes, which possess significantly enhanced chemical stability as compared with the high sulfonation degree SPES. High ion‐selectivity of the membrane is achieved via a novel solvent‐controlled swelling method invented by the group, with which the proton conductivity and vanadium permeability of the membrane can be precisely adjusted at molecular level. The influence of sulfonation degree on the chemical stability of SPES is revealed. The characteristics of the membrane, including water uptake, proton conductivity, VO2+ permeability, and tensile strength are comprehensively studied. At 100 mA cm–2, the energy efficiency of the vanadium redox flow battery (VRFB) cell equipped with the low sulfonation degree SPES membrane reaches 81.1% and shows excellent cycling stability over 150 charge–discharge cycles.
Multifunctional Shape‐Stabilized Phase Change Materials with Enhanced Thermal Conductivity and Electromagnetic Interference Shielding Effectiveness for Electronic Devices
Authors: Liang Yanjuan , Tong Yelong , Tao Zechao , Guo Quangui , Hao Baoyi , Liu Zhanjun
Published: April 2021

A paraffin‐based shape‐stabilized composite phase change material (CPCM) is fabricated with dramatically enhanced thermal conductivity and excellent electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding capacity. The as‐prepared CPCMs are supported by graphene‐based frameworks with many bubble‐like micropores that are prepared by the addition of polystyrene microspheres into graphene oxide hydrogel as hard templates. These bubble‐like micropores can encapsulate paraffin wax (PW) due to the strong capillary force between the graphene‐based framework and PW and leading to enhanced shape stability of the as‐prepared CPCMs. Moreover, the continuous thermally and electrically conductive network formed by graphene nanoplatelets endows the as‐prepared CPCMs with a high thermal conductivity and an excellent EMI shielding effectiveness. When the ratio of graphene‐based framework is 23.0 wt%, the thermal conductivity and latent heat of CPCM reaches 28.7 W m−1 k−1 and 175.8 J g−1, respectively, and the EMI shielding effectiveness is higher than 45 dB in the frequency of 8.2–12.4 GHz. Their outstanding thermal and EMI shielding performance makes the as‐prepared CPCMs promising candidates for use in thermal management and EMI shielding of electronic devices.
Hypoxia/Temperature/pH Triple Stimuli–Responsive Block Copolymers: Synthesis, Self‐Assembly, and Controlled Drug Release
Authors: Ji Chenming , Deng Yinlu , Yuan Hua , Yuan Weizhong , Song Ye , Li Zhihong
Published: April 2021

The amphiphilic block copolymer poly(methacrylic acid‐co‐2‐nitroimidazole acrylate)‐b‐poly(2‐(N,N‐dimethylamino)ethyl methacrylate) (P(MAA‐co‐NIMA)‐b‐PDMAEMA) with the hypoxia/temperature/pH triple responsiveness is synthesized by reversible addition‐fragmentation chain transfer polymerization (RAFT), hydrolysis, and 3‐(3‐dimethylaminopropyl)‐1‐ethylcarbodiimide (EDC) reactions, and successfully self‐assembled into micelles. The hypoxia response in vitro is realized, and then the sensitivity of the self‐assembled micelles to the hypoxia condition is studied by controlling the grafting amount of aminated 2‐nitroimidazole. Because 2‐(N,N‐dimethylamino) ethyl methacrylate (DMAEMA) is a typical material sensitive to temperature and pH conditions, the self‐assembled micelles are also responsive to temperature and different acidic/basic conditions. In addition, the cumulative release rate of doxorubicin (DOX) at 42 °C, pH = 6.0, and hypoxic conditions increases significantly, and verifies the synergistic promotion effect of the above stimulations. This intelligent polymer with triple response mechanism improves the controllability and efficiency of drug release, and is expected to be a drug carrier for cancer treatment.
An Effective Strategy to Design a Large Bandgap Conjugated Polymer by Tuning the Molecular Backbone Curvature
Authors: Wang Jiuxing , Zhao Congcong , Zhou Long , Liang Xin , Li Yonghai , Sheng Guanyu , Du Zhonglin , Tang Jianguo
Published: April 2021

With the significant progress of low bandgap non‐fullerene acceptors, the development of wide bandgap (WBG) donors possessing ideal complementary absorption is of crucial importance to further enhance the photovoltaic performance of organic solar cells. An ideal strategy to design WBG donors is to down‐shift the highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) and up‐shift the lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO). A properly low‐lying HOMO of the donor is favorable to obtaining a high open‐circuit voltage, and a properly high‐lying LUMO of the donor is conductive to efficient exciton dissociation. This work provides a new strategy to enlarge the bandgap of a polymer with simultaneously decreased HOMO and increased LUMO by increasing the polymer backbone curvature. The polymer PIDT‐fDTBT with a large molecular backbone curvature shows a decreased HOMO of −5.38 eV and a prominently increased LUMO of −3.35 eV relative to the linear polymer PIDT‐DTBT (EHOMO = −5.30 eV, ELUMO = −3.55 eV). The optical bandgap of PIDT‐fDTBT is obviously broadened from 1.75 to 2.03 eV. This work demonstrates that increasing the polymer backbone curvature can effectively broaden the bandgap by simultaneously decreasing HOMO and increasing LUMO, which may guide the design of WBG conjugated materials.
Comparing Channel Catfish Populations in the Fragmented Minnesota River
Authors: Sindt Anthony R.
Published: April 2021

Channel Catfish Ictalurus punctatus provide important fisheries in lotic systems throughout much of North America, but few studies have evaluated the influence of dams and habitat fragmentation on their populations. The Minnesota River is an important recreational catfish fishery in Minnesota that is fragmented by Granite Falls Dam, located 395 km upstream from the confluence with the Mississippi River. Granite Falls Dam is a significant barrier to upstream fish passage; consequently, the upstream fish community is less diverse than the downstream community and habitat availability differs between reaches. For this study, hoop-net assessments conducted by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources during 2014–2017 were used to compare Channel Catfish catch rates, size structure, growth, and annual survival between the upstream and downstream reaches. Hoop-net catch rates upstream (mean ± SE = 45.1 ± 5.2 fish/net-night) were significantly greater by an order of magnitude compared to catch rates downstream (3.9 ± 0.4 fish/net-night). Size structure of Channel Catfish also significantly differed between reaches: the percentage of stock-length (≥280-mm) fish that were preferred length or larger (≥610 mm) was 28.4% downstream compared to 5.8% upstream. Annual survival estimates and growth indices were generally similar between reaches, but there was evidence of greater longevity downstream, where the oldest aged fish were 24 years compared to 19 years upstream. This study demonstrates population differences that may be influenced and exacerbated by habitat fragmentation and provides support for considering each population individually when making future management decisions.
The superconvergence gradient recovery method for linear finite element method with polygons
Authors: Ding Shengyong , Shao Guojian , Huang Yaoying , Shi Hougai
Published: April 2021

To identify the superconvergent areas of gradient solutions is a worthwhile part of gradient recovery in finite element method. Compared with triangular and quadrilateral elements, the position determination for the superconvergent gradient of polygonal element is much more difficult because of the non‐polynomial form of interpolation functions. In this article, the gradient superconvergence points in C0 polygonal element is discovered, and its existence is proved theoretically. By dividing the canonical polygonal element into sub‐triangles, a set of provisional triangular elements is generated to replace the existing polygon element. The superconvergent results of gradient solutions are obtained at the centroids of sub‐triangles. Based on that, the gradient recovery method using superconvergent patch recovery (SPR) is developed for general polygonal mesh. Numerical examples for the Poisson equation are solved and the simulated results compare with polynomial preserving recovery (PPR) to demonstrate the accuracy and convergence properties of the proposed method. The extend application of the superconvergence recovery method for adaptive analysis is also presented at the end.
Understanding success in micro‐enterprise development: Dimensions and misconceptions
Authors: Chu Vien , Luke Belinda
Published: April 2021

This article examines micro‐enterprise development (MED) programmes of non‐government organisations (NGOs) in two developing countries, Bangladesh and Indonesia, to explore understandings of success from the perspectives NGO managers and beneficiaries. Interviews were conducted with managers from 20 MED NGOs, and individuals and groups of beneficiaries from four of the NGOs. A review of the NGOs' publicly available documents was also undertaken and compared with interview data. The findings reveal NGOs' understandings of success at the organisational‐level‐emphasised organisational development. However, NGOs' interpretations of success at the programme level focused primarily on short‐term outputs rather than long‐term outcomes and impacts, with limited follow‐up by NGOs. Implications include potential misconceptions regarding understandings of success from an internal (NGO) versus external perspective, and the need for long‐term monitoring to understand how sustainable NGOs' programme outcomes actually are.
Performance of 3D printed PCL/PLGA/HA biological bone tissue engineering scaffold
Authors: Ma Zhiyong , Wang Qifan , Xie Wenjia , Ye Wenjie , Zhong Linna , Huge Jile , Wang Ying
Published: April 2021

In the repair of bone defects, bone tissue engineering scaffolds made of degradable polymers are considered as potential bone defect graft substitutes. Among them, polycaprolactone (PCL) and polylactic acid coglycolic acid (PLGA) are widely used in tissue engineering. PCL has good processability. However, the poor hydrophilicity of PCL leads to a lower cell adhesion rate of pure PCL scaffolds. PLGA has good biological properties. However, the production of acidic substances during the rapid degradation of PLGA will result in low‐local pH, and PLGA has poor toughness. In this study, PCL and PLGA were mixed in different proportions and 20 wt% hydroxyapatite (HA) was added. A PCL/PLGA/HA scaffold with good pore structure was prepared by 3D printing method. The regular grid structure makes the transportation of nutrients more convenient. The PCL component in the scaffold improves the toughness of the scaffold. Due to the mixing of PLGA, the hydrophilicity of the composite scaffold is improved, making the scaffold more conducive to cell adhesion. At the same time, the HA component contained in the composite scaffold provides Ca2+ and PO43− for the scaffold, which promotes the osteogenic differentiation of cells on the composite scaffold. Since the PCL/PLGA/HA composite scaffold prepared by 3D printing has shown good performance in mechanical and cell tests, we believe that the composite scaffold has potential applications in the field of bone tissue engineering.
Functional outcomes and post‐discharge care sought by patients with COVID‐19 compared to matched controls after completing inpatient acute rehabilitation
Authors: Jain Esha , Harmon Erin Y. , Sonagere Matthew B.
Published: April 2021

Introduction

A subset of patients with coronavirus disease 19 (COVID‐19) can develop severe illness, resulting in significant functional and cognitive deficits that require acute inpatient rehabilitation. Guidelines following discharge from acute inpatient rehabilitation have not yet been established. This study seeks to establish outcomes of rehabilitation patients with COVID‐19 and characterize their need for long‐term care.

Objective

To determine the functional outcomes and utilization of follow‐up medical care for patients with COVID‐19 90 days following discharge from acute inpatient rehabilitation, as compared to rehabilitation impairment and age‐matched controls.

Design

Prospective, single‐center cohort study.

Setting

Inpatient rehabilitation facility (IRF).

Patients

Sixty‐four patients recovering from COVID‐19 and 64 age and impairment group category controls were identified to answer survey questions following discharge from inpatient rehabilitation. A total of 36 patients participated in the study (18 patients with COVID‐19 and 18 controls).

Interventions

Not applicable.

Main Outcome Measure(s)

Functional outcomes at discharge (GG Self‐Care and Mobility Activities items of the IRF‐PAI Version 3.0), hospital readmissions, and follow‐up care sought by patients.

Results

The COVID‐19 patient group had similar improvements in functional outcomes as compared to controls. Patients with COVID‐19 required fewer 0–90 day readmissions than their matched controls (22.2% vs 61.1%, P < .05), but there were no differences in 0–90 day urgent care/emergency department visits, clinic visits and use of outpatient therapies.

Conclusions

Patients with functional deficits as a result of COVID‐19 who require multiple therapy disciplines should be considered for acute inpatient rehabilitation as this study demonstrates their ability to participate in and benefit from IRF level care.
Concurrent diagnosis of anxiety increases postoperative length of stay among patients receiving esophagectomy for esophageal cancer
Authors: Coffey Max R. , Bachman Katelynn C. , Worrell Stephanie G. , Argote‐Greene Luis M. , Linden Philip A. , Towe Christopher W.
Published: April 2021

Objective

Psychiatric comorbidities disproportionately affect patients with cancer. While identified risk factors for prolonged length of stay (LOS) after esophagectomy are primarily medical comorbidities, the impact of psychiatric comorbidities on perioperative outcomes is unclear. We hypothesized that psychiatric comorbidities would prolong LOS in patients with esophageal cancer.

Methods

The 2016 National Inpatient Sample (NIS) was used to identify patients with esophageal cancer receiving esophagectomy. Concurrent psychiatric illness was categorized using Clinical Classifications Software Refined for ICD‐10, creating 34 psychiatric diagnosis groups (PDGs). Only PDGs with >1% prevalence in the cohort were included in the analysis. The outcome of interest was hospital LOS. Bivariable testing was performed to determine the association of PDGs and demographic factors on LOS using rank sum test. Multivariable regression analysis was performed using backward selection from bivariable testing (α ≤ 0.05).

Results

We identified 1,730 patients who underwent esophagectomy for esophageal cancer in the 2016 NIS. The median LOS was 8 days (IQR 5‐12). In bivariable testing, a concurrent diagnosis of anxiety was the only PDG associated with LOS (9 days (IQR 6‐14) with anxiety diagnosis versus 8 days (IQR 5–12) with no anxiety diagnosis, p = 0.022). Multivariable modeling showed an independent association between anxiety diagnosis and increased LOS (OR 4.82 (1.25–25.23), p = 0.022). Anxiety was not associated with increased hospital cost or in‐hospital mortality.

Conclusions

This analysis demonstrates an independent effect of anxiety prolonging postoperative LOS after esophagectomy in the United States. These findings may influence perioperative care, patient expectations, and resource allocation.
Design, synthesis and antifungal/anti‐oomycete activity of pyrazolyl oxime ethers as novel potential succinate dehydrogenase inhibitors
Authors: Wang Minlong , Du Ying , Ling Chen , Yang Zhaokai , Jiang Biaobiao , Duan Hongxia , An Jie , Li Xinghai , Yang Xinling
Published: April 2021

BACKGROUND

Succinate dehydrogenase inhibitors (SDHIs) play an increasingly important role in controlling plant diseases. However, the similar structures of SDHIs result in rapid development of cross‐resistance development and a clear bottleneck of poor activity against oomycetes, therefore the need to seek new SDHI fungicides with novel structures is urgent.

RESULTS

Innovative pyrazolyl oxime ethers were designed by replacing amide with oxime ether based on the succinate dehydrogenase (SDH) structure, and 19 pairs of Z‐ and E‐isomers were efficiently prepared for the discovery of SDHI compounds with a novel bridge. Their biological activities against four fungi and two oomycetes were evaluated, and substantial differences were observed between the Z‐ and E‐ isomers of the title compounds. Furthermore, most of these compounds exhibited remarkable activities against Rhizoctonia solani with EC50 values of less than 10 mg L−1 in vitro, and bioassay in vivo further confirmed that E‐I‐6 exhibited good protective efficacy (76.12%) at 200 mg L−1. In addition, Z‐I‐12 provided better activity against the oomycetes Pythium aphanidermatum and Phytophthora capsici (EC50 = 1.56 and 0.93 mg L−1) than those of boscalid. Moreover, E‐I‐12 exhibited excellent SDH inhibition (IC50 = 0.21 mg L−1) thanks to its good binding ability to the SDH by hydrogen‐bonding interactions, π‐cation interaction and hydrophobic interactions.

CONCLUSION

Novel pyrazolyl oxime ethers have the potential as SDHI compounds for future development, and the strategy of replacing an amide bond with oxime ether may offer an alternative option in SDHI fungicide discovery.
The Structural, Electronic, and Optical Properties of a Novel Multilayer Heterostructure ZnSe/AlAs/GaAs: First‐Principles Study
Authors: Li Jintao , Zhou Xiaolong
Published: April 2021

Herein, the structural, electronic, and optical properties of ZnSe/AlAs/GaAs multilayer heterostructure are systematically studied based on density functional theory (DFT). The results show that the stacking orders and configurations as well as the interlayer distance can affect the stability of the system. The A configuration is the most stable structure with direct bandgap of 0.548 eV. The electrons in each layer are mainly concentrated near the atoms, due to hybridization of partial atomic orbits; the heterostructure has a strong binding force. Compared with the monolayers, the multilayer heterostructure has better optical properties in the ultraviolet and visible regions, and has stronger absorption ability for infrared light. In addition, compared with the bilayer heterostructures of ZnSe/AlAs, ZnSe/GaAs, and AlAs/GaAs, the multilayer heterostructure has better electrical properties. The ZnSe/AlAs/GaAs multilayer heterostructure has stable structure and excellent photoelectric properties, which has great potential in applications such as photoelectric devices, photocatalysis, and infrared light conversion and detection.
Active disturbance rejection control for discrete systems with zero dynamics
Authors: Wang Haiyan , Pan Tianhong , Sira‐Ramirez Hebertt , Gao Zhiqiang
Published: April 2021

In this paper, a discrete active disturbance rejection control (DADRC) scheme is proposed to manipulate linear input–output systems with zero dynamics. The DADRC is formulated according to the relative degree of the system output and is designed to track a reference and cancel both internal uncertainties and external disturbances. A parameter tuning method is also presented based on a part of the model information. The robustness and effectiveness of the designed scheme are demonstrated via numerical simulations.
A Pilot Study On Ex Vivo Expanded Autologous Adipose-Derived Stem Cells of Improving Fat Retention in Localized Scleroderma Patients
Authors: Wang Chenyu , Long Xiao , Si Loubin , Chen Bo , Zhang Yiwei , Sun Tianyu , Zhang Xiuqin , Zhao Robert Chunhua , Wang Xiaojun
Published: April 2021

In patients with localized scleroderma (LoS), facial deformity induced by subcutaneous atrophy greatly reduces life quality. Autologous fat grafting (AFG) is used for volume restoration but with low-fat retention due to various reasons. Adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) have shown potential effects in improving fat retention. We aimed to compare the feasibility and efficacy of improving fat retention in LoS patients among the ADSCs-assisted, the stromal vascular fraction (SVF)-assisted and conventional AFG methods. A pilot study with a 6-month follow-up among 18 LoS patients was conducted. Participants were randomly assigned into three AFG groups: conventional group, SVF-assisted group, and ADSCs-assisted group. The SVF-assisted group received SVF-assisted AFG at the SVF:fat ratio of 1:1. The ADSCs-assisted group received the mixture of ADSCs-enriched fat graft supplemented with 5 × 105 ADSCs/mL fat. Volume retention was measured by magnetic resonance imaging, and clinical photographs were taken for outcome evaluation. At sixth-month follow-up, the fat retention of ADSCs-assisted group was 49.83 ± 3.61%, significantly higher than 31.75 ± 1.73% of SVF-assisted group (P = .0004), and 21.86 ± 1.68% of the conventional group (P < .0001). A significant difference of the fat retention was also observed between the SVF-assisted and conventional group (P = .0346). No severe adverse events occurred during the procedure and follow-up. This pilot study suggests that ADSCs-assisted AFG is a safe, feasible, and attractive alternative to conventional and SVF-assisted AFG in the correction of facial atrophy of LoS patients. Future studies with large patient samples are needed for confirmation. (Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, ChiCTR1900025717).
Relationship between Job Demands‐Resources and turnover intention in chronic disease – The example of multiple sclerosis
Authors: Lehmann Anja I. , Rodgers Stephanie , Calabrese Pasquale , Kamm Christian P. , Wyl Viktor von , Bauer Georg F
Published: April 2021

Considering the Job Demands‐Resources (JD‐R) model, this study investigated the relation between job demands, job resources and turnover intention among persons with multiple sclerosis (pwMS) as an example of chronic disease. We hypothesized that job demands and job resources are related to turnover intention, as mediated by work engagement, burnout, and MS‐related work difficulties. Moreover, we assumed that MS‐related work difficulties mediate the relationship between job demands/job resources and burnout and between job resources and work engagement. Using cross‐sectional data (N = 360) of pwMS from the Swiss MS Registry, structural equation modelling was applied. The results confirm the JD‐R model can be related to turnover intention among pwMS. Moreover, MS‐related work difficulties mediated the relationship between job demands and burnout, between job resources and work engagement, and between job resources and burnout. The findings suggest that there may be benefit in applying and adapting the JD‐R model for people with a chronic disease such as MS. This group of people might benefit from the promotion of job resources and a reduction in job demands, leading to changes in work engagement, burnout, and MS‐related work difficulties and thus to an increased likelihood to stay at work.
Functional Interactions Between Bottom‐Up Synthetic Cells and Living Matter for Biomedical Applications
Authors: van Stevendaal Marleen H. M. E. , van Hest Jan C. M. , Mason Alexander F.
Published: April 2021

Bottom‐up synthetic cells, where diverse non‐living materials are combined in creative ways in order to construct increasingly life‐like and adaptive systems, are fast approaching a level of function that will enable significant advances in solving specific biomedical challenges. Over the last 10 years, we have seen a wide variety of synthetic cell based approaches to challenges in regulating antimicrobial activity, delivering cargo to mammalian cells, and “growth support”. Despite this progress, there has not been a widespread uptake of synthetic cell technologies in biomedical engineering. In this Review, we highlight both the strengths and limitations of these existing synthetic cell applications, as well as give an overview of the state‐of‐the‐art of synthetic cell technology that has yet been applied to cellular contexts. In doing so we aim to identify opportunities for the advancement of this unique intersection of research fields.
Habitat Associations of Three Black Bass Species in a Reservoir System
Authors: Miranda L. E. , Lakin Kurt M. , Faucheux Nicky M.
Published: April 2021

The habitat associations of three species of black bass Micropterus spp. were examined in six habitat types (i.e., sediment, gravel, rock, riprap, brush, and aquatic plants) along a cascade of 10 reservoirs in the Tennessee River. We tested whether habitat selection differed among the three species and whether species’ co‐occurrence depended on habitat type. We found that some species occurred in some habitats in proportion to habitat availability (some at higher frequencies and some at frequencies lower than availability) and that juveniles and adults exhibited similar occurrence patterns. Our habitat selection results largely corroborate previous descriptions of black bass habitat associations and generally track preference for lithic habitats, as reported in native streams. We expected the different black bass species to show negative co‐occurrence to avoid competitive interactions. Nevertheless, we found that with few exceptions, adults co‐occurred in habitats mostly as expected by chance and juveniles co‐occurred more often than was expected by chance. Our findings imply that environmental filtering, rather than competitive interactions that dominate in natural environments, may be the dominant mechanism shaping black bass assemblages in reservoirs of the Tennessee River. The observed patterns of habitat selection and co‐occurrence further suggest that the conservation and management of black bass assemblages in reservoirs can be supported through habitat management activities. Protecting and enhancing the remaining lithic habitat in the reservoirs as well as recovering habitat that is blanketed by sediment could provide desirable environments for all black bass species.
Extreme crowding in laying hens during a recurrent smothering outbreak
Authors: Herbert George T. , Redfearn William D. , Brass Elizabeth , Dalton Hillary A. , Gill Roger , Brass David , Smith Cameron , Rayner Ann C. , Asher Lucy
Published: April 2021

Background: Piling, a behaviour where hens crowd together, is referred to as smothering if mortalities result. Smothering is a considerable concern for the egg industry, yet is vastly understudied.

Methods: During an outbreak of recurrent smothering, continuous video footage captured a commercial, free‐range flock over 35 days. We describe the piling behaviour observed and potential associations with productivity and flock health indicators.

Results: Forty‐eight piles were filmed, with a maximum density of 187.93 birds/m2 and up to 1204 birds in one pile. Piling occurred in the same house location on 33 of 34 observation days, the first evidence of regularity in piling behaviour. Despite extreme bird densities, we did not find associations between piling extremity and productivity but did find associations with water:feed ratio and temperature range.

Conclusion: This study describes the most extreme level of piling reported in literature and offers new insights into this problem behaviour and its consequences.