bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis of corncob biochar with high surface area by KOH activation for VOC adsorption: effect of KOH addition method
Authors: He Dan , Wu Jianfu , Yu Chenglong , Huang Bichun , Tu Xiang , Li Danping , Jia Xuehui , Dan Junhui , Fang Zheng , Dai Zhenhua , Liu Rong , Zhou Qian
Published: May 2023

BACKGROUND

Carbon materials have been regarded as valuable adsorbents for removal of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) owing to their high specific surface area and abundant pore structure. However, the complexity and high cost of the process used to treat the feedstock to produce commercial activated carbon has limited its application. In this reported study, a series of biochar materials was prepared using the KOH modification method employing corn cob as the raw material. The effects of different potassium hydroxide dosages, various activation temperatures and the activator addition method on the structure, physicochemical properties and VOC adsorption performance of the resulting biochars and their structure–activity relationship were systematically studied.

RESULTS

Adsorption performance tests and a series of characterization results showed that the CC‐3‐700 (corn cob/KOH = 1:3, T = 700 °C, two‐step dry mixing pyrolysis method) sample had highest toluene dynamic adsorption capacity (up to 573.5 mg g−1) compared to the other prepared samples. This result was attributed to the maximum specific surface area (2349 m2 g−1) and pore volume (1.22 cm3 g−1) of this sample. Moreover, the result suggested that the high specific surface area, abundant pore structure and highly disordered non‐graphitizable carbon in sample CC‐3‐700 were the major reasons for its excellent adsorption performance. The results of a multi‐component adsorption performance test showed that corn cob biochar had a strong adsorption capacity for toluene when simultaneously exposed to benzene and toluene.

CONCLUSION

The results of this study revealed that the corn cob biochar prepared using a two‐step roasting method offers good potential prospects for application in the field of VOC pollution control. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Comparative anatomy and functional implications of variation in the buccal mass in coleoid cephalopods
Authors: Roscian Marjorie , Souquet Louise , Herrel Anthony , Uyeno Theodore , Adriaens Dominique , De Kegel Barbara , Rouget Isabelle
Published: May 2023

In contrast to the well‐studied articulated vertebrate jaws, the structure and function of cephalopod jaws remains poorly known. Cephalopod jaws are unique as the two jaw elements do not contact one another, are embedded in a muscular mass and connected through a muscle joint. Previous studies have described the anatomy of the buccal mass muscles in cephalopods and have proposed variation in muscle volume depending on beak shape. However, the general structure of the muscles has been suggested to be similar in octopuses, squids, and cuttlefish. Here we provide a quantitative analysis of the variation in the buccal mass of coleoids using traditional dissections, histological sections and contrast‐enhanced computed tomography scans. Our results show that the buccal mass is composed of four main homologous muscles present in both decapodiforms and octopodiforms as suggested previously. However, we also report the presence of a muscle uniquely present in octopodiforms (the postero‐lateral mandibular muscle). Our three dimensional reconstructions and quantitative analyses of the buccal mass muscles pave the way for future functional analyses allowing to better model jaw closing in coleoids. Finally, our results suggest differences in beak and muscle function that need to be validated using future in vivo functional analyses.
Oral side effects of COVID‐19 vaccines in 32 European countries: Analysis of EudraVigilance reports
Authors: Riad Abanoub , Schulz‐Weidner Nelly , Dziedzic Arkadiusz , Howaldt Hans‐Peter , Attia Sameh
Published: May 2023

The recent reports of oral side effects (SEs) following COVID‐19 vaccination warrant further investigation into their prevalence, severity, and aetiology. This study was conducted to synthesize the first‐ever population‐level evidence about oral SEs of COVID‐19 vaccines in Europe. The European Union Drug Regulating Authorities Pharmacovigilance (EudraVigilance) database was accessed in August 2022 to extract summary data of all potential oral SEs reported after COVID‐19 vaccination. The data were reported descriptively and cross‐tabulated to facilitate sub‐group analysis per vaccine type, sex, and age group. Dysgeusia was the most commonly reported oral SE (0.381 case per each 100 received reports), followed by oral paraesthesia (0.315%), ageusia (0.296%), lip swelling (0.243%), dry mouth (0.215%), oral hypoaesthesia (0.210%), swollen tongue (0.207%), and taste disorder (0.173%). Females had significantly (Sig. < 0.001) a higher prevalence of all most common (top 20) oral SEs, except for salivary hypersecretion, which was equally prevalent among females and males. The present study revealed a low prevalence of oral SEs, with taste‐related, other sensory and anaphylactic SEs being the most common SEs in Europe, similar to what was found earlier among the US population. Future studies should explore the potential risk factors of oral sensory and anaphylactic SEs to verify whether they are causally linked to COVID‐19 vaccines.
Application of aggregation behavior of nonionic surfactants to develop a smart detergent for washing fruits with emphasis on pesticide residues removal
Authors: Hordyjewicz‐Baran Zofia , Wasilewski Tomasz , Zarębska Magdalena , Seweryn Artur , Zajszły‐Turko Ewa , Stanek‐Wandzel Natalia , Chrobak Justyna
Published: May 2023

Model smart detergents for fruit washing were designed. Their physicochemical and functional properties were determined, with particular emphasis on the efficiency of removing pesticide residues. The specific behavior of nonionic surfactants near the so‐called cloud point was used in the design of the new smart detergent. The high performance of detergents was related to the temperature‐dependent aggregation behavior of surfactants. Liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) was used to evaluate the washing efficiency. Four types of pesticides (boscalid, acetamiprid, pyraclostrobin and pendimethalin) were applied to apples and then washed with designed detergents. Washing efficiency was evaluated based on the change in pesticide content on the apple surface. Compared to water, the model detergents were found to be more effective in removing pesticide residues, reaching values above 80%. The detergents were also evaluated for skin effects and revealed a low potential for skin irritation.
Oat β‐glucan alleviates muscle atrophy via promoting myotube formation and suppressing protein degradation
Authors: Zhang Jingjie , Zheng Mengjun , Zhou Linyue , Li Xinping , Yu Yonghui , Wang Jing , Sun Baoguo
Published: May 2023

BACKGROUND

The dangerous inducers of muscle atrophy are inflammatory reaction, oxidative stress, and cachexia, etc. β‐Glucan, an important food derived active ingredient, has been reported to exert anti‐inflammatory effects, however, its effects on regulating myoblast differentiation and protein degradation are unclear. This study is aimed to investigate the mechanism of oat β‐glucan on alleviating muscle atrophy.

RESULTS

The results showed that oat β‐glucan treatment reversed tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) induced abnormal myoblast differentiation and reduced muscle atrophy related MuRF‐1 and Atrogin‐1 protein expression. The similar phenomenon was observed after using MCC950 (NLRP3 specific inhibitor) or AS1842856 (FoxO1 specific inhibitor) to suppress NLRP3 and FoxO1 expression, respectively. Exposure to β‐glucan or AS1842856 also inhibited TNF‐α induced the activation of TLR4/NF‐κB pathway by inactivating FoxO1, and subsequently suppressed the expression of NLRP3.

CONCLUSION

Our results indicate that oat β‐glucan exerts essential roles in promoting myoblast differentiation and alleviating muscle atrophy via inactivating FoxO1 and NLRP3 inflammasome signal pathway. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Enhanced depth of field of integral imaging display using bifocal microlens array fabricated by two‐step lithography
Authors: Wang Wenwen , Zhang Yongai , Wu Chaoxing , Yan Qun , Guo Tailiang , Zhou Xiongtu
Published: May 2023

Due to the limitation of traditional microlens arrays (MLAs) in integral imaging display, the depth of field (DOF) is restricted in space and the center depth plane is difficult to extend in a large range. Here, we propose a microfabrication method based on bifocal MLAs to improve DOF. The bifocal MLAs for extended DOF were fabricated by using two‐step photolithography and thermal reflow. This method allows diverse microlenses of high to low numerical aperture to achieve high spatial resolution as well as accurate depth estimation. Microlenses of different focal lengths were simultaneously deposited on a substrate by repeated photolithography with multiple photomasks with alignment mark to define micro‐posts of different thicknesses. Hexagonally packaged bifocal MLAs clearly show the DOF extended from 0.004 to 4.908 mm for 57.6 μm in lens diameter, and their corresponding object distance ranges from 0.125 to 0.165 mm. Based on the proposed scheme, this method provides potential applications in integral imaging 3D display or light field display.
Development of a general separation strategy by countercurrent chromatography using sanshools from Zanthoxylum bungeanum oleoresin as a case study
Authors: Han Tian , Ling Tong , Fu Zhuo , Cao Xueli
Published: May 2023

Three kinds of sanshools were separated from Zanthoxylum bungeanum oleoresin by high‐speed countercurrent chromatography. Sanshools are a series of amide compounds extracted from the Zanthoxylum bungeanum. Due to similar structures, polarities, and dissociation constants, it was challenging to select an appropriate solvent system for their complete separation by countercurrent chromatography. To address this challenge, a solvent‐system‐selection strategy was proposed to identify a relatively suitable solvent system. Additionally, a separation procedure incorporating multi‐elution modes selection was established to separate similar compounds in a logical order. Ultimately, a solvent system comprising n‐hexane:ethyl acetate:methanol:water in a ratio of 19:1:1:5.67 was selected. Three amide compounds with high purity were obtained through the use of recycling elution mode to improve separation resolution: hydroxy‐ε‐sanshool (8.4 mg; purity: 90.64%), hydroxy‐α‐sanshool (326.4 mg; purity: 98.96%), and hydroxy‐β‐sanshool (71.8 mg; purity: 98.26%) were obtained from 600 mg sanshool crude extract. The summarized solvent‐system‐selection strategy and separation procedure incorporating multi‐elution modes may instruct countercurrent chromatography users, particularly novices, seeking to separate compounds with highly similar chemical properties.
Olfactory Dysfunction and Balance Dysfunction are Associated with Increased Falls in Older Adults
Authors: Yesantharao Lekha V. , Vohra Varun , Cheng Michael , Simonsick Eleanor M. , Agrawal Yuri , du Lac Sascha , Rowan Nicholas R.
Published: May 2023

Objective

This study aims to characterize the association between impairments in olfaction and balance, both of which are mediated in part by the cerebellum, and how this relates to prospective incidence of falls in a cohort of aging adults.

Methods

The Health ABC study was queried to identify 296 participants with data on both olfaction (measured using the 12‐item Brief Smell Identification Test) and balance‐related function (measured using the Romberg test). The relationship between olfaction and balance was investigated using multivariable logistic regression. Predictors of performance on a standing balance assessment and predictors of falls were studied.

Results

Of 296 participants, 52.7% had isolated olfactory dysfunction, 7.4% had isolated balance dysfunction, and 5.7% had dual dysfunction. Severe olfactory dysfunction was associated with increased odds of balance dysfunction when compared to those without olfactory dysfunction, even when adjusting for age, gender, race, education, BMI, smoking, diabetes, depression, and dementia (OR = 4.1, 95% CI [1.5, 13.7], p = 0.011). Dual sensory dysfunction was associated with worse performance on a standing balance assessment (β = −22.8, 95% CI [−35.6, −10.1], p = 0.0005) and increased falls (β = 1.5, 95% CI [1.0, 2.3], p = 0.037).

Conclusion

This study highlights a unique relationship between olfaction and balance, and how dual dysfunction is associated with increased falls. With substantial implications of falls on morbidity and mortality in older adults, this novel relationship between olfaction and balance emphasizes a potentially shared mechanism between olfactory dysfunction and increased fall risk in older adults; however, further study is required to explore the novel relationship of olfaction with balance and future falls.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 133:1964–1969, 2023
Chitosan‐Based Hydrogels for Infected Wound Treatment
Authors: Wang Xiaoyu , Song Rijian , Johnson Melissa , A Sigen , Shen Pingping , Zhang Nan , Lara‐Sáez Irene , Xu Qian , Wang Wenxin
Published: May 2023

Wound infections slow down the healing process and lead to complications such as septicemia, osteomyelitis, and even death. Although traditional methods relying on antibiotics are effective in controlling infection, they have led to the emergence of antibiotic‐resistant bacteria. Hydrogels with antimicrobial function become a viable option for reducing bacterial colonization and infection while also accelerating healing processes. Chitosan is extensively developed as antibacterial wound dressings due to its unique biochemical properties and inherent antibacterial activity. In this review, the recent research progress of chitosan‐based hydrogels for infected wound treatment, including the fabrication methods, antibacterial mechanisms, antibacterial performance, wound healing efficacy, etc., is summarized. A concise assessment of current limitations and future trends is presented.
The pain of payment: A review and research agenda
Authors: Reshadi Farnoush , Fitzgerald M. Paula
Published: May 2023

Pain of payment is the negative psychological affect consumers experience when they become cognizant that they have lost a certain amount of their financial resources (immediate pain) or when they become aware that they will or may lose a certain amount of their financial resources in the future (anticipated pain). Pain of payment plays a significant role in consumer decision making and has attracted substantial scholarly interest in recent years. In this article, we conduct a systematic literature review of the existing work on pain of payment. We advance theory in the field by proposing a new organizing framework that summarizes the antecedents, moderators, and consequences of pain of payment. Furthermore, we provide a formal definition of pain of payment that encompasses all facets of this construct. Subsequently, we identify knowledge gaps and outline research questions that could be explored to improve our understanding of this construct and advance consumer psychology.
Accessing care during the pandemic: A UK wide survey of people with rheumatoid arthritis and adult juvenile inflammatory arthritis during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Andev Rajinder Singh , Jacklin Clare , Bosworth Ailsa , Dubey Shirish
Published: May 2023

COVID‐19 drastically changed healthcare delivery models for rheumatology services. We sought to understand the impact of these changes for patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) and adult Juvenile Inflammatory Arthritis (AJIA) in established patients and those newly diagnosed during the pandemic.

Results

Of the 316 participants, a significant proportion regularly used analgesics (45.4%, n = 119), corticosteroids (17.9%, n = 47) and Non‐Steroidal Anti‐Inflammatory Drugs [(NSAIDs) (36.6%, n = 96)]. Two thirds of participants (66.5%, n = 210) did not know their Disease Activity Score‐28 (DAS28). Of the remaining third, moderate disease activity (12%, n = 38) was most reported. We found that 16.8% (n = 53) felt their condition was managed well during the pandemic. The remainder felt more negatively. For the newly diagnosed cohort, 34.5% (n = 10) delayed seeking GP help because of COVID‐19 concerns. Once assessed, a quarter (24.1%, n = 7) were referred to rheumatology after 4 or more consultations. We found 47% (n = 77) expressed positive opinions on remote consultations, whereas 36% (n = 59) had concerns. The lack of clinical examination (42.5%, n = 25) was flagged. Changing the dynamic from health worker to a patient centred approach was the most wished for improvement (20.3%, n = 64).

Conclusions

Most participants did not know their disease activity status, which is of concern. With a push towards patient‐centred and patient‐led care, education and supported self‐management is critically important. There is high use of NSAIDs and corticosteroids. Pathways of care underwent change with subsequent delays in specialist assessment. The introduction of patient‐initiated follow‐up (PIFU) and virtual consultations further distances healthcare professionals from patients and could affect outcomes.
Interpenetrating shape memory polyimide‐polyaniline composites with electrical conductivity
Authors: Gao Hui , Li Jinrong , Kong Fangong , Wang Zhaojiang , Xu Feng
Published: May 2023

Shape memory polyimides (SMPI) with adjustable shape recovery temperatures have been paid much attention in both fundamental research and practical applications. However, the intrinsically electrical insulation of SMPIs limits their applications. In this article, the electrically conductive shape memory polyimide‐polyaniline (SMPI‐PANI) composite with interpenetrating networks was synthesized by in situ polycondensation. Compared with pure SMPI, the electrical resistivity of SMPI‐PANI composites reduced by about 12 orders of magnitude when the PANI content was 15 wt%. The addition of PANI had less influence on the glass transition temperature and storage modulus in glassy state. But the storage modulus of SMPI‐PANI composites in rubbery state was over 40 times higher than that of pure SMPI, indicating that SMPI‐PANI composites have higher stiffness during shape recovery. The SMPI‐PANI composites demonstrate excellent shape memory performance with shape fixation ratio higher than 97% and shape recovery ratio higher than 93%. The SMPI‐PANI composites also have good thermal stability with the effective decomposition temperatures higher than 150°C. The SMPI‐PANI composite in our work is a potential material for deployable aerospace structure.
A Bayesian multi‐arm multi‐stage clinical trial design incorporating information about treatment ordering
Authors: Serra Alessandra , Mozgunov Pavel , Jaki Thomas
Published: May 2023

Multi‐Arm Multi‐Stage (MAMS) designs can notably improve efficiency in later stages of drug development, but they can be suboptimal when an order in the effects of the arms can be assumed. In this work, we propose a Bayesian multi‐arm multi‐stage trial design that selects all promising treatments with high probability and can efficiently incorporate information about the order in the treatment effects as well as incorporate prior knowledge on the treatments. A distinguishing feature of the proposed design is that it allows taking into account the uncertainty of the treatment effect order assumption and does not assume any parametric arm‐response model. The design can provide control of the family‐wise error rate under specific values of the control mean and we illustrate its operating characteristics in a study of symptomatic asthma. Via simulations, we compare the novel Bayesian design with frequentist multi‐arm multi‐stage designs and a frequentist order restricted design that does not account for the order uncertainty and demonstrate the gains in the sample sizes the proposed design can provide. We also find that the proposed design is robust to violations of the assumptions on the order.
Tailoring capture‐recapture methods to estimate registry‐based case counts based on error‐prone diagnostic signals
Authors: Ge Lin , Zhang Yuzi , Ward Kevin C. , Lash Timothy L. , Waller Lance A. , Lyles Robert H.
Published: May 2023

Surveillance research is of great importance for effective and efficient epidemiological monitoring of case counts and disease prevalence. Taking specific motivation from ongoing efforts to identify recurrent cases based on the Georgia Cancer Registry, we extend recently proposed “anchor stream” sampling design and estimation methodology. Our approach offers a more efficient and defensible alternative to traditional capture‐recapture (CRC) methods by leveraging a relatively small random sample of participants whose recurrence status is obtained through a principled application of medical records abstraction. This sample is combined with one or more existing signaling data streams, which may yield data based on arbitrarily non‐representative subsets of the full registry population. The key extension developed here accounts for the common problem of false positive or negative diagnostic signals from the existing data stream(s). In particular, we show that the design only requires documentation of positive signals in these non‐anchor surveillance streams, and permits valid estimation of the true case count based on an estimable positive predictive value (PPV) parameter. We borrow ideas from the multiple imputation paradigm to provide accompanying standard errors, and develop an adapted Bayesian credible interval approach that yields favorable frequentist coverage properties. We demonstrate the benefits of the proposed methods through simulation studies, and provide a data example targeting estimation of the breast cancer recurrence case count among Metro Atlanta area patients from the Georgia Cancer Registry‐based Cancer Recurrence Information and Surveillance Program (CRISP) database.
Synthesis of tetragonal SnO2 photocatalyst for Micro‐structural analysis and visible light driven Fenton‐like degradation of Methylene Blue
Authors: Banu Afroja , Barman Subhodeep , Sinha Biswajit , Sikdar Suranjan
Published: May 2023

The present study reports a simple co‐precipitation followed by solid state method for the synthesis of tetragonal SnO2 nanoparticles.The nanoparticles were characterized by XRD, FTIR, SEM, DLS, UV‐vis, and PL techniques to examine the structural properties, functional group, morphological and electronic properties. As prepared SnO2 NPs has been used for Fenton‐like degradation of Methylene blue(MB) in presence of solar light in aqueous solution.The structural analysis and Rietveld refinement revealed that the tetragonal SnO2 NPs have been well formed. The mean crystallite size of the synthesized nanoparticles was found to be 16.47 nm using the Scherrer formula.The Williamson‐Hall method determines strain throughout the crystal. The effect of various parameters such as catalyst dose, dye concentration, H2O2 concentration, pH and temperature was examined.The complete degradation of MB was obtained at pH=9. The results obtained from kinetics showed that degradation of MB dye follows pseudo‐first order rate with the rate constant k1 is 7.889×10−2 min−1. From Brunauer‐Emmet‐Teller (BET) surface analysis, we have determined the surface area and average pore size of SnO2 NPs. All parameters were measured by Brunauer‐Emmet‐Teller (BET) surface analysis with nitrogen adsorption‐desorption isotherm.The pore volume and pore diameter was calculated by BJH (Barrett‐Joyner‐Halenda) model.
Controlled Delivery of Amoxicillin and Rifampicin by Three‐Dimensional Polyvinyl alcohol/Bismuth Ferrite Scaffolds
Authors: Ilgar Sule , Ulag Songul , Sahin Ali , Gunduz Oguzhan , Ustundag Cem Bulent
Published: May 2023

Skin is a protective barrier that can protect against environmental influences and renew itself. However, in some cases, this regenerative property is lost, and this causes delays in wound healing. Wound healing is a complex and long‐lasting phase. Any bacterial infection during the wound healing process delays wound healing. The therapeutic efficacy can be increased by using nanocarrier drug delivery systems to the target tissue with modern wound dressings. Controlled nano drug delivery systems increase the therapeutic efficacy in the treatment of diseases and provide a faster recovery process. In this study, amoxicillin (AMX) and rifampicin (RIF) were loaded into the bismuth ferrite (BFO) particles which were synthesized with the co‐precipitation method. Then, these drug‐loaded BFO particles (0.075 %) were added separately to 13 % polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) solution and the solutions were printed three‐dimensionally to obtain three dimensional scaffolds. With these designed scaffolds, it is aimed to reduce the risk of inflammation in wound tissues and increase therapeutic efficacy with controlled release. The SEM images proved that homogeneous pore distributions could be achieved with these combinations. The tensile test results showed that drug‐loaded BFO addition increased the mechanical strength of the 13 % PVA scaffold. The biocompatibility test results demonstrated that the highest viability values of the human adipose tissue‐derived mesenchymal stem cells were obtained for AMX‐added 13 % PVA scaffolds.
Artificial intelligence‐assisted point‐of‐care testing system for ultrafast and quantitative detection of drug‐resistant bacteria
Authors: Ding Yang , Chen Jingjie , Wu Qiong , Fang Bin , Ji Wenhui , Li Xin , Yu Changmin , Wang Xuchun , Cheng Xiamin , Yu Hai‐Dong , Hu Zhangjun , Uvdal Kajsa , Li Peng , Li Lin , Huang Wei
Published: May 2023

As one of the major causes of antimicrobial resistance, β‐lactamase develops rapidly among bacteria. Detection of β‐lactamase in an efficient and low‐cost point‐of‐care testing (POCT) way is urgently needed. However, due to the volatile environmental factors, the quantitative measurement of current POCT is often inaccurate. Herein, we demonstrate an artificial intelligence (AI)‐assisted mobile health system that consists of a paper‐based β‐lactamase fluorogenic probe analytical device and a smartphone‐based AI cloud. An ultrafast broad‐spectrum fluorogenic probe (B1) that could respond to β‐lactamase within 20 s was first synthesized, and the detection limit was determined to be 0.13 nmol/L. Meanwhile, a three‐dimensional microfluidic paper‐based analytical device was fabricated for integration of B1. Also, a smartphone‐based AI cloud was developed to correct errors automatically and output results intelligently. This smart system could calibrate the temperature and pH in the β‐lactamase level detection in complex samples and mice infected with various bacteria, which shows the problem‐solving ability in interdisciplinary research, and demonstrates potential clinical benefits.
Ligand‐Crosslinking Strategy for Efficient Quantum Dot Light‐Emitting Diodes via Thiol‐Ene Click Chemistry
Authors: Shin Seungki , Kang Kyungwan , Jang Hyunwoo , Gwak Namyoung , Kim Seongchan , Kim Tae Ann , Oh Nuri
Published: May 2023

While solution‐processable colloidal quantum dots (QDs) offer cost‐effective and large‐scale manufacturing, they can be susceptible to subsequent solution processes, making continuous processing challenging. To enable complex and integrated device architectures, robust QD films with subsequent patterning are necessary. Here, we report a facile ligand‐crosslinking strategy based on thiol‐ene click chemistry. Thiol molecules added to QD films react with UV light to form radicals that crosslink with QD ligands containing carbon double bonds, enabling microscale photo‐patterning of QD films and enhancing their solvent resistance. This strategy can also be extended to other ligand‐capped nanocrystals. It is found that the swelling of QD films during the process of binding with the thiol molecules placed between the ligands contributes to the improvement of photoluminescence and electroluminescence properties. These results suggest that the thiol‐ene crosslinking modifies the optoelectronic properties and enables direct optical patterning, expanding the potential applications of QDs.
Defect‐Derived Catalysis Mechanism of Electrochemical Reactions in Two‐Dimensional Carbon Materials
Authors: Han Yun , Yan Xuecheng , Wu Qilong , Xu Hongzhe , Li Qin , Du Aijun , Yao Xiangdong
Published: May 2023

In the past decades, remarkable progress has been achieved in the exploration of electrocatalysts with high activity, long durability, and low cost. Among these, defective graphene (DG)‐based catalysts are considered as one of the most potential substitutes for precious metal‐based electrocatalysts. DG‐based catalysts contain abundant active centers with different configurations resulting from their extraordinary high‐structural tunability. Herein, an overview on recent advancements in developing four kinds of DG‐based catalysts is presented: 1) heteroatoms‐doped graphene; 2) intrinsic DG (vacancy and topological defect); 3) nonmetal atoms or/and metal species‐modified intrinsic DG (heterogeneous species and intrinsic defects co‐tuned DG); and 4) DG‐based van der Waals‐type multilayered heterostructures. In particular, the synergistic effects between various defects are discussed, and the origin of catalytic activity is reviewed. Meanwhile, the established defect‐derived catalytic mechanism is summarized, which is beneficial for the rational design and fabrication of high‐performance electrocatalysts for practical energy‐related applications. Finally, challenges and future research directions on defect engineering in noble metal‐free materials for electrocatalysis are proposed.
Ulcer‐healing effects of jumihaidokuto extract in a mouse model of methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus causing skin infection
Authors: Minami Masaaki , Konishi Toru , Taira Masayo , Makino Toshiaki
Published: May 2023

Aim

Methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a pathogenic bacterium that causes severe skin diseases with ulceration. Since MRSA are not susceptible to multiple antibiotics, novel therapeutic agents are desired. Jumihaidokuto, a combination of 10 crude drugs, is a Japanese traditional Kampo medicine that is used for the treatment of skin diseases. In this study, we investigated the effects of jumihaidokuto extract (JHT) on MRSA‐infected mice.

Methods

Mice infected subcutaneously with MRSA FPR3757 were administered JHT orally to analyze mouse survival, the condition of the mouse skin ulcer area, and transforming growth factor (TGF)‐β levels in the ulcer tissue. To evaluate the role of crude drug components, modified JHTs were prepared by removing one crude drug component at a time from the formula and the same experiment was conducted.

Results

JHT treatment significantly increased the survival rate. Ulcerated areas on the skin of MRSA‐infected mice were observed to be significantly reduced in size following JHT treatment. Furthermore, MRSA was not detected at the site of the ulcer in the JHT‐treated group. Additionally, TGF‐β levels decreased in the mouse skin ulcer tissues on treatment with JHT. All the crude drug components in JHT were found to partially contribute to the survival rate and healing of skin ulcers. Among the 10 crude drugs, Bupleurum root, cherry bark, Aralia rhizome, ginger, and Schizonepeta spike exhibited higher contribution than the other crude drugs.

Conclusion

Our findings indicate the efficacy of JHT in promoting the healing of MRSA‐induced murine skin ulcers.
Massively Parallel Genetic Optimization Through Asynchronous Propagation of Populations
Authors: Taubert Oskar , Weiel Marie , Coquelin Daniel , Farshian Anis , Debus Charlotte , Schug Alexander , Streit Achim , Götz Markus
Published: May 2023

We present , an evolutionary optimization algorithm and software package for global optimization and in particular hyperparameter search. For efficient use of HPC resources, omits the synchronization after each generation as done in conventional genetic algorithms. Instead, it steers the search with the complete population present at time of breeding new individuals. We provide an MPI-based implementation of our algorithm, which features variants of selection, mutation, crossover, and migration and is easy to extend with custom functionality. We compare to the established optimization tool . We find that is up to three orders of magnitude faster without sacrificing solution accuracy, demonstrating the efficiency and efficacy of our lazy synchronization approach. Code and documentation are available at https://github.com/Helmholtz-AI-Energy/propulate/.
Wavelet Based Solutions to the Poisson and the Helmholtz Equations on the n-Dimensional Unit Sphere
Authors: Iglewska-Nowak Ilona , Stefaniak Piotr
Published: May 2023

We present a method of solving partial differential equations on then-dimensional unit sphere using methods based on the continuous wavelet transform derived from approximate identities. We give an explicit analytical solution to the Poisson equation and to the Helmholtz equations. For the first one and for some special values of the parameter in the latter one, we derive a closed formula for the generalized Green function.
spa Types and Staphylococcal Enterotoxin Production of Staphylococcus aureus Isolated from Wild Boar
Authors: Banaszkiewicz Sylwia , Tabiś Aleksandra , Wałecki Bartosz , Łyżwińska Karolina , Bystroń Jarosław , Bania Jacek
Published: May 2023

Little is known about the structure of S. aureus population and the enterotoxin gene content in wild boar. In 1025 nasal swabs from wild boars, 121 S. aureus isolates were identified. Staphylococcal enterotoxin (SE) genes were identified in 18 isolates (14.9%). The seb gene was found in 2 S. aureus isolates, sec in 2 isolates, the see and seh genes were found in 4 and 11 isolates, respectively. The production of SEs was evaluated in bacteria grown in microbial broth. Concentration of SEB reached 2.70 µg/ml after 24 h and 4.46 µg/ml at 48 h. SEC was produced at 952.6 ng/ml after 24 h and 7.2 µg/ml at 48 h. SEE reached 124.1 ng/ml after 24 h and 191.6 ng/ml at 48 h of culture. SEH production reached 4.36 µg/ml at 24 h and 5.42 µg/ml at 48 h of culture. Thirty-nine spa types were identified among S. aureus isolates. The most prevalent spa types were t091 and t1181, followed by t4735 and t742, t3380 and t127. Twelve new spa types, i.e., t20572‒t20583 were identified. The wild boar S. aureus population was shown to contain previously identified animal/human-associated spa types and spa types not identified in humans or animals. We also indicate that wildlife animals can be a significant reservoir of see-positive S. aureus.
Comparative study of extraction methods of silver species from faeces of animals fed with silver-based nanomaterials
Authors: Jiménez María S. , Bakir Mariam , Ben-Jeddou Khaoula , Bolea Eduardo , Pérez-Arantegui Josefina , Laborda Francisco
Published: May 2023

Extractions methods based on ultrapure water, tetramethylammonium hydroxide (TMAH), and tetrasodium pyrophosphate (TSPP) were applied to faeces collected from two in vivo experiments of pigs and chickens fed with a silver-based nanomaterial to study the fate and speciation of silver. For TMAH extraction, cysteine and CaCl2 were used to evaluate their stabilization effect on the silver forms. The analytical techniques single-particle inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (SP-ICP-MS), hydrodynamic chromatography hyphenated to ICP-MS (HDC-ICP-MS) and asymmetric flow field flow fractionation coupled to ICP-MS (AF4-ICP-MS) were applied to the simultaneous detection of particulate and dissolved silver. Results have shown that water extraction was a suitable option to assess the environmental release of silver, with percentages of 3 and 9% for faeces of pigs and chickens, respectively. The use of TMAH extraction combined with SP-ICP-MS analysis was useful to characterize Ag-containing particles (less than 1%). Both stabilizers, cysteine and CaCl2, have a similar effect on silver nanoparticle preservation for chicken faeces, whereas cysteine-Triton was better for pig samples. In any case, silver extraction efficiency with TMAH was low (39–42%) for both types of faeces due to a matrix effect. TSPP followed by ICP-MS enabled the fractionation of the silver in the faeces, with silver sulphide (41%) and ionic silver (62%) being the most abundant fractions.

Graphical Abstract
Detection, quantification, and characterization of polystyrene microplastics and adsorbed bisphenol A contaminant using electroanalytical techniques
Authors: Vidal Juan C. , Midón Javier , Vidal Ana B. , Ciomaga Dragos , Laborda Francisco
Published: May 2023

The potential applications of electroanalytical techniques for the quantification and size characterization of nonelectroactive polystyrene microplastics is reported, in addition to characterizing the kinetics of adsorption of bisphenol A on these polystyrene microparticles. The individual adsorption events of very diluted polystyrene microparticles dispersions on glassy-carbon microelectrodes produce the blocking of the charge transfer of a mediator (ferrocene-methanol) thus decreasing the current of the recorded chronoamperogram in a stepwise manner. The magnitude of the current steps are in the order of pA values and can be related to the diameter of the plastic microparticles in the size range 0.1 to 10 µm. The frequency of the current steps in the domain time used (120 s) allows to quantify the number concentration of these microparticles in the range 0.005 to 0.500 pM. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy confirms the adsorption of the polystyrene microplastics on carbon microelectrodes (and to a lesser extent on platinum microelectrodes) under the same experimental conditions as above. On the other hand, the adsorbed microplastics become concentrators of other pollutants found in the environment. The sensitive differential-pulse voltammetry determination of bisphenol A (linear range 0.80–15.00 µM; detection limit 0.24 µM) was used together with a simple separation procedure for studying the adsorption of bisphenol A on polystyrene microparticles. The adsorption capacity (mg of bisphenol A retained per g of the polystyrene microplastics) decreased from approximately 5.7 to 0.8 mg g−1 with increasing dosages of polystyrene microparticles from 0.2 to 1.6 g l−1. The adsorption isotherms were modeled resulting in a monolayer of bisphenol A adsorbed on the microplastics (i.e., best fitted to a Langmuir model).

Graphical abstract
Postoperative prolonged mechanical ventilation in patients with surgically treated pyogenic spondylodiscitis: a surrogate endpoint for early postoperative mortality
Authors: Scorzin Jasmin E. , Potthoff Anna-Laura , Lehmann Felix , Banat Mohammed , Borger Valeri , Schuss Patrick , Bode Christian , Vatter Hartmut , Schneider Matthias
Published: May 2023

Surgical procedures with spinal instrumentation constitute a prevalent and occasionally highly indicated treatment modality in patients with pyogenic spondylodiscitis (PSD). However, surgical therapy might be associated with the need of prolonged postoperative intensive care medicine which in turn might impair intended operative benefit. Therefore, we analyzed prolonged mechanical ventilation (PMV) as an indicator variable for such intensive care treatment with regard to potential correlations with mortality in this vulnerable patient cohort. Between 2012 and 2018, 177 consecutive patients received stabilization surgery for PSD at the authors’ neurosurgical department. PMV was defined as postoperative mechanical ventilation of more than 24 h. A multivariable analysis was performed to identify independent predictors for 30-day mortality. Twenty-three out of 177 patients (13%) with PSD suffered from postoperative PMV. Thirty-day mortality rate was 5%. Multivariable analysis identified “spinal empyema” (p = 0.02, odds ratio (OR) 6.2, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.3–30.2), “Charlson comorbidity index (CCI) > 2” (p = 0.04, OR 4.0, 95% CI 1.0–15.5), “early postoperative complications (PSIs)” (p = 0.001, OR 17.1, 95% CI 3.1–96.0) and “PMV > 24 hrs” (p = 0.002, OR 13.0, 95% CI 2.7–63.8) as significant and independent predictors for early postoperative mortality. The present study indicates PMV to significantly correlate to elevated early postoperative mortality rates following stabilization surgery for PSD. These results might entail further scientific efforts to investigate PMV as a so far underestimated negative prognostic factor in the surgical treatment of PSD.
The Eurasian shrew and vole tick Ixodes trianguliceps: geographical distribution, climate preference, and pathogens detected
Authors: Rubel Franz , Kahl Olaf
Published: May 2023

The Eurasian shrew and vole tick Ixodes trianguliceps Birula lives in the nests and burrows of its small mammalian hosts and is—along with larvae and nymphs of Ixodes ricinus or Ixodes persulcatus—one of the most commonly collected tick species from these hosts in its Eurasian range. Ixodes trianguliceps is a proven vector of Babesia microti. In this study, up-to-date maps depicting the geographical distribution and the climate preference of I. trianguliceps are presented. A dataset was compiled, resulting in 1161 georeferenced locations in Eurasia. This data set covers the entire range of I. trianguliceps for the first time. The distribution area between 8$$^\circ$$

∘

 W–105$$^\circ$$

∘

 E and 40–69$$^\circ$$

∘

 N extends from Northern Spain to Western Siberia. To investigate the climate adaptation of I. trianguliceps, the georeferenced locations were superimposed on a high-resolution map of the Köppen–Geiger climate classification. The Köppen profile for I. trianguliceps, i.e., a frequency distribution of the tick occurrence under different climates, shows two peaks related to the following climates: warm temperate with precipitation all year round (Cfb), and boreal with warm or cold summers and precipitation all year round (Dfb, Dfc). Almost 97% of all known I. trianguliceps locations are related to these climates. Thus, I. trianguliceps prefers climates with warm or cold summers without dry periods. Cold winters do not limit the distribution of this nidicolous tick species, which has been recorded in the European Alps and the Caucasus Mountains up to altitudes of 2400 m. Conversely, I. trianguliceps does not occur in the Mediterranean area with its hot and dry summers.
Changes in native fish communities in response to the presence of alien brown bullhead (Ameiurus nebulosus) in four lakes (Poland)
Authors: Kalinowska Krystyna , Ulikowski Dariusz , Traczuk Piotr , Rechulicz Jacek
Published: May 2023

The aim of the study was to determine changes in the abundance of Ameiurus nebulosus and native fish in four lakes after 4–7 years. It was hypothesised that A. nebulosus would be the dominant species of fish in various types of lakes. The study was conducted in the summer of 2014 and 2018–2021, using Nordic multi-mesh gillnets. We indicated that relative numbers and biomass of A. nebulosus decreased in the oligo-mesotrophic lake, while increased in lakes of higher trophic conditions. Body weight and total length of A. nebulosus fluctuated from 3.2 to 283.3 g and 64 to 267 mm, respectively. The coefficient of condition of this species varied widely from 0.2 to 1.8 with the highest and lowest values in the meso-eutrophic lake. Ameiurus nebulosus accounted for 0.2–34.1% of the total numbers and 2.4–36.5% of the total biomass of the fish community. In the mesotrophic and meso-eutrophic lakes, A. nebulosus was a dominant component of the fish community after 7 years. The percentage contribution of A. nebulosus to the total numbers of fish decreased with the increasing trophic status of the studied lakes. Our study showed that A. nebulosus could be one of the factors responsible for a decrease in the number of native fish species and a change in the taxonomic structure of native fish in lakes of different trophic status (from oligo-mesotrophy to eutrophy).
“We’re always an afterthought”- Designing tobacco control campaigns for dissemination with and to LGBTQ +—serving community organizations: a thematic analysis
Authors: Ramanadhan Shoba , Salvia Meg , Hanby Elaine , Revette Anna C. , Rivard Madison K. , Scout N. F. N. , Applegate Julia , Gordon Bob , Machado Ana , Lunn Mitchell R. , Obedin-Maliver Juno , Potter Jennifer , Chen Jarvis T. , Tan Andy S. L.
Published: May 2023

Purpose

Evidence-based health communication campaigns can support tobacco control and address tobacco-related inequities among lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ +) populations. Community organizations focused on LGBTQ + health (e.g., nonprofits, community centers, and community health centers) can be prime channels for delivering evidence-based health communication campaigns. However, it is unclear how to balance the goals of a) designing campaigns to support broad adoption/uptake and b) adaptation addressing the needs of diverse communities and contexts. As part of an effort to support “designing for dissemination,” we explored the key challenges and opportunities staff and leaders of LGBTQ + -serving community organizations encounter when adopting or adapting evidence-based health communication campaigns.

Methods

A team of researchers and advisory committee members conducted this study, many of whom have lived, research, and/or practice experience with LGBTQ + health. We interviewed 22 staff members and leaders of community organizations serving LGBTQ + populations in the US in early 2021. We used a team-based, reflexive thematic analysis approach.

Results

The findings highlight the challenges of attempting to use health communication campaigns misaligned with the assets and needs of organizations and community members. The three major themes identified were as follows: (1) available evidence-based health communication campaigns typically do not sufficiently center LGBTQ + communities, (2) negotiation regarding campaign utilization places additional burden on practitioners who have to act as “gatekeepers,” and (3) processes of using health communication campaigns often conflict with organizational efforts to engage community members in adoption and adaptation activities.

Conclusions

We offer a set of considerations to support collaborative design and dissemination of health communication campaigns to organizations serving LGBTQ + communities: (1) develop campaigns with and for LGBTQ + populations, (2) attend to the broader structural forces impacting campaign recipients, (3) support in-house testing and adaptations, and (4) increase access to granular data for community organizations.