bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
“It went through the roof”: an observation study exploring the rise in PrEP uptake among Zimbabwean female sex workers in response to adaptations during Covid‐19
Authors: Matambanadzo Primrose , Busza Joanna , Mafaune Haurovi , Chinyanganya Lillian , Machingura Fortunate , Ncube Getrude , Steen Richard , Phillips Andrew , Cowan Frances Mary
Published: October 2021

Introduction

Sisters with a Voice (Sisters), a programme providing community‐led differentiated HIV prevention and treatment services, including condoms, HIV testing, pre‐exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and antiretroviral therapy linkage for sex workers, reached over 26,000 female sex workers (FSW) across Zimbabwe in 2020. Zimbabwe's initial Covid “lockdown” in March 2020 and associated movement restrictions interrupted clinical service provision for 6 weeks, particularly in mobile clinics, triggering the adaptation of services for the Covid‐19 context and a scale up of differentiated service delivery (DSD) models. PrEP service delivery decentralized with shifts from clinical settings towards community/home‐based, peer‐led PrEP services to expand and maintain access. We hypothesize that peer‐led community‐based provision of PrEP services influenced both demand and supply‐side determinants of PrEP uptake. We observed the effect of these adaptations on PrEP uptake among FSW accessing services in Sisters in 2020.

Methods

New FSW PrEP initiations throughout 2020 were tracked by analysing routine Sisters programme data and comparing it with national PrEP initiation data for 2020. We mapped PrEP uptake among all negative FSW attending services in Sisters alongside Covid‐19 adaptations and shifts in the operating environment throughout 2020: prior to lockdown (January–March 2020), during severe restrictions (April–June 2020), subsequent easing (July–September 2020) and during drug stockouts that followed (October–December 2020).

Results and discussion

PrEP uptake in 2020 occurred at rates <25% (315 initiations or fewer) per month prior to the emergence of Covid‐19. In response to Covid‐19 restrictions, DSD models were scaled up in April 2020, including peer demand creation, community‐based delivery, multi‐month dispensing and the use of virtual platforms for appointment scheduling and post‐PrEP initiation support. Beginning May 2020, PrEP uptake increased monthly, peaking at an initiation rate of 51% (n = 1360) in September 2020. Unexpected rise in demand coincided with national commodity shortages between October and December 2020, resulting in restriction of new initiations with sites prioritizing refills.

Conclusions

Despite the impact of Covid‐19 on the Sisters Programme and FSW mobility, DSD adaptations led to a large increase in PrEP initiations compared to pre‐Covid levels demonstrating that a peer‐led, community‐based PrEP service delivery model is effective and can be adopted for long‐term use.
Evaluation of the integration of telehealth into the same‐day antiretroviral therapy initiation service in Bangkok, Thailand in response to COVID‐19: a mixed‐method analysis of real‐world data
Authors: Amatavete Sorawit , Lujintanon Sita , Teeratakulpisarn Nipat , Thitipatarakorn Supanat , Seekaew Pich , Hanaree Chonticha , Sripanjakun Jirayuth , Prabjuntuek Chotika , Suwannarat Lertkwan , Phattanathawornkool Thana , Photisan Nuttawoot , Suriwong Sujittra , Avery Matthew , Mills Stephen , Phanuphak Praphan , Phanuphak Nittaya , Ramautarsing Reshmie A.
Published: October 2021

Introduction

Same‐day antiretroviral therapy (SDART) initiation has been implemented at the Thai Red Cross Anonymous Clinic (TRCAC) in Bangkok, Thailand, since 2017. HIV‐positive, antiretroviral therapy (ART)‐naïve clients who are willing and clinically eligible start ART on the day of HIV diagnosis. In response to the first wave of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) outbreak in March 2020, telehealth follow‐up was established to comply with COVID‐19 preventive measures and allow service continuation. Here, we evaluate its implementation.

Methods

Pre‐COVID‐19 (until February 2020) clients who initiated SDART received a 2‐week ART supply and returned to the clinic for evaluation before being referred to long‐term ART maintenance facilities. If no adverse events (AEs) occurred, another 8‐week ART supply was provided while referral was arranged. During the first wave of COVID‐19 (March–May 2020), clients received a 4‐week ART supply and the option of conducting follow‐up consultation and physical examination via video call. Clients with severe AEs were required to return to TRCAC; those without received another 6‐week ART supply by courier to bridge transition to long‐term facilities. This adaptation continued post‐first wave (May–August 2020). Routine service data were analysed using data from March to August 2019 for the pre‐COVID‐19 period. Interviews and thematic analysis were conducted to understand experiences of clients and providers, and gain feedback for service improvement.

Results

Of 922, 183 and 321 eligible clients from the three periods, SDART reach [89.9%, 96.2% and 92.2% (p = 0.018)] and ART initiation rates [88.1%, 90.9% and 94.9% (p<0.001)] were high. ART uptake, time to ART initiation and rates of follow‐up completion improved over time. After the integration, 35.3% received the telehealth follow‐up. The rates of successful referral to a long‐term facility (91.8% vs. 95.3%, p = 0.535) and retention in care at months 3 (97.5% vs. 98.0%, p = 0.963) and 6 (94.1% vs. 98.4%, p = 0.148) were comparable for those receiving in‐person and telehealth follow‐up. Six clients and nine providers were interviewed; six themes on service experience and feedback were identified.

Conclusions

Telehealth follow‐up with ART delivery for SDART clients is a feasible option to differentiate ART initiation services at TRCAC, which led to its incorporation into routine service.
Differentiated service delivery models among PLHIV in Akwa Ibom and Cross River States, Nigeria during the COVID‐19 pandemic: descriptive analysis of programmatic data
Authors: Sanwo Olusola , Persaud Navindra E. , Nwaokoro Pius , Idemudia Augustine , Akpan Uduak , Toyo Otoyo , Imohi Philip , Badru Titilope , Obiora‐Okafo Chika , Uzochukwu Chimamaka Excellence , Aliu Oluwapelumi , Olatunbosun Kolawole , Pandey Satish Raj , Khamofu Hadiza , Chiegil Robert , James Ezekiel , Iyortim Isa , Oqua Dorothy , Bateganya Moses
Published: October 2021

Introduction

The rapid increase in the number of people living with HIV (PLHIV) on antiretroviral therapy (ART) in Akwa Ibom and Cross River states in Nigeria led to overcrowding at clinics. Patients were devolved to receive ART refills through five differentiated service delivery (DSD) models: fast‐track (FT), adolescent refill clubs (ARCs), community pharmacy ART refill programs (CPARPs), community ART refill clubs (CARCs) and community ART refill groups (CARGs) designed to meet the needs of different groups of PLHIV. In the context of COVID‐19‐related travel restrictions, out‐of‐facility models offered critical mechanisms for continuity of treatment. We compared retention and viral suppression among those devolved to DSD with those who continued standard care at facilities.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted among patients devolved to DSD from January 2018 to December 2020. Bivariate analyses were conducted to assess differences in retention and viral suppression by socio‐demographic characteristics. Kaplan–Meier assessed retention at 3, 6, 9 and 12 months. Differences in proportions were compared using the chi‐square test; a p‐value of <0.05 was considered significant.

Results

A total of 40,800 PLHIV from 84 facilities received ART through the five models: CARC (53%), FT (19.1%), ARC (12.1%), CPARP (10.4%) and CARG (5.4%). Retention rates at 6 months exceeded 96% for all models compared to 94% among those continuing standard care. Among those using DSD, retention rate at 12 months was higher among adults than children (97.8% vs. 96.7%, p = 0.04). No significant sex differences in retention rates were found among those enrolled in DSD. Viral suppression rates among PLHIV served through DSD were significantly higher among adults than children (95.4% vs. 89.2%; p <0.01). Among adults, 95.4% enrolled in DSD were virally suppressed compared to 91.8% of those in standard care (p <0.01). For children, 89.2% enrolled in DSD were virally suppressed compared to 83.2% in standard care (p <0.01).

Conclusions

PLHIV receiving ART through DSD models had retention but higher viral suppression rates compared to those receiving standard care. Expanding DSD during COVID‐19 has helped ensure uninterrupted access to ART in Nigeria. Further scale‐up is warranted to decongest facilities and improve clinical outcomes.
Propagation characteristics of very low frequency vortex electromagnetic waves in an anisotropic ionosphere
Authors: Zhang Shitian , Wang Xianrui , Wang Maoyan , Peng Huaiyun , Wei Bing , Han Xiange
Published: October 2021

We report very low frequency (VLF) orbital angular momentum (OAM) vortex electromagnetic waves propagation in an anisotropic ionosphere by proposing a Hertizan dipole array antenna. The circular array with linear insulated antennas is designed and demonstrated to generate vortex waves carrying OAM modes. To match the impedance of the ionosphere with high refractive index in the VLF band, electromagnetic characteristics of single linear antenna in the ionosphere is adjusted by selecting proper radii and electrical length. Effects of high and anisotropic refractive index of the time‐ and space‐varying ionosphere on the OAM spectra and phase profiles generated by the array antenna are analyzed. Numerical results show that the propagation features present obvious differences if OAM vortex electromagnetic waves change their topological charges. The VLF vortex waves can provide an efficient avenue to increase the spectrum efficiency, more information will be offered by the OAM VLF waves for wireless communications and information transmissions.
Increased susceptibility to quinolinic acid‐induced seizures and long‐term changes in brain oscillations in an animal model of glutaric acidemia type I
Authors: Barbieri Caus Letícia , Pasquetti Mayara Vendramin , Seminotti Bianca , Woontner Michael , Wajner Moacir , Calcagnotto Maria Elisa
Published: October 2021

Glutaric acidemia type I (GA‐I) is an inborn error of metabolism of lysine, hydroxylysine, and tryptophan, caused by glutaryl‐CoA‐dehydrogenase (GCDH) deficiency, characterized by the buildup of toxic organic acids predominantly in the brain. After acute catabolic states, patients usually develop striatal degeneration, but the mechanisms behind this damage are still unknown. Quinolinic acid (QA), a metabolite of the kynurenine pathway, increases especially during infections/inflammatory processes, and could act synergically with organic acids, contributing to the neurological features of GA‐I. The aim of this study was to investigate whether QA increases seizure susceptibility and modifies brain oscillation patterns in an animal model of GA‐I, the Gcdh−/− mice taking high‐lysine diet (Gcdh−/−‐Lys). Therefore, the characteristics of QA‐induced seizures and changes in brain oscillatory patterns were evaluated by video‐electroencephalography (EEG) analysis recorded in Gcdh−/−‐Lys, Gcdh+/+‐Lys, and Gcdh−/−‐N (normal diet) animals. We found that the number of seizures per animal was similar for all groups receiving QA, Gcdh−/−‐Lys‐QA, Gcdh+/+‐Lys‐QA, and Gcdh−/−‐N‐QA. However, severe seizures were observed in the majority of Gcdh−/−‐Lys‐QA mice (82%), and only in 25% of Gcdh+/+‐Lys‐QA and 44% of Gcdh−/−‐N‐QA mice. All Gcdh−/−‐Lys animals developed spontaneous recurrent seizures (SRS), but Gcdh−/−‐Lys‐QA animals had increased number of SRS, higher mortality rate, and significant predominance of lower frequency oscillations on EEG. Our results suggest that QA plays an important role in the neurological features of GA‐I, as Gcdh−/−‐Lys mice exhibit increased susceptibility to intrastriatal QA‐induced seizures and long‐term changes in brain oscillations.
Effect of selenium‐position on the redox responsivity of isomeric selenium‐containing anionic surfactants
Authors: Chen Hui , Zhu Bo , Zhang Yongmin , Liu Xuefeng
Published: October 2021

The effect of Se‐position on the redox responsivity of three isomeric selenium‐containing surfactants (CmSeCnSO4Na, n = 3, 8, and 11, m + n = 15) was investigated under the conditions of monomer, micelle, and adsorbed layer at the liquid paraffin‐water interface. The divalent selenide group in CmSeCnSO4Na (the reduction form, CmSeCnSO4Na‐Re) was oxidized to a more hydrophilic tetravalent selenoxide by the oxidation with H2O2 to afford CmSeOCnSO4Na (the oxidation form, CmSeCnSO4Na‐Ox), and the selenoxide group of CmSeCnSO4Na‐Ox could be reduced to selenide by the reduction with Na2SO3 to form CmSeCnSO4Na‐Re again. In the oxidation process of the monomeric CmSeCnSO4Na in water, no obvious difference in the oxidation responsivity among three Se‐position isomers was observed. In contrast, a remarkable effect of the Se‐position on the oxidation responsivity was observed in the cases of CmSeCnSO4Na self‐assemblies, including micelles and adsorbed layers at the liquid paraffin‐water interface. Both the steric hindrance of the well‐organized self‐assemblies and the hydrophobic microenvironment of the selenide group in the self‐assemblies hindered the Se atom from reacting with H2O2. The greater n, the harder was the oxidation of Se with H2O2. In the reduction process of CmSeCnSO4Na‐Ox, the hydrophilic selenoxide group was exposed outright to water, allowing the selenoxide group to readily react with Na2SO3 regardless of whether CmSeCnSO4Na‐Ox was self‐assembled or not.
Simultaneous determination of penthiopyrad enantiomers and its metabolite in vegetables, fruits, and cereals using ultra‐high performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Zhao Tingting , Liu Yu , Liang Hongwu , Li Li , Shi Kaiwei , Wang Jia , Zhu Yuke , Ma Cheng
Published: October 2021

Penthiopyrad is a novel succinate dehydrogenase inhibitor that has one chiral center and exists a metabolite, 1‐methyl‐3‐trifluoromethyl‐1H‐pyrazole‐4‐carboxamide in its residue definition. An efficient analytical method for the simultaneous determination of penthiopyrad enantiomers and its metabolite in eight matrices were developed using modified quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged, safe method, coupled with chiral stationary phase and ultra‐high performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry. The absolute configuration of penthiopyrad enantiomers was confirmed by polarimetry and electronic circular dichroism. Eight polysaccharide‐based chiral stationary phases were evaluated in terms of the enantioseparation of penthiopyrad and separation‐related factors (the mobile phase, flow rate and the column temperature) were optimized. To obtain an optimal purification, different sorbent combinations were assessed. The linearities of this method were acceptable in the range of 0.005 to 1 mg/L with R2 > 0.998, while the limits of detection and quantification were 0.0015 mg/kg and 0.01 mg/kg for two enantiomers and its metabolite. The average recoveries of R‐(‐)‐penthiopyrad, S‐(+)‐penthiopyrad and the metabolite ranged from 75.4 to 109.1, 69.5 to 112.8, and 70.0 to 108.5%, respectively. The intra‐day and inter‐day relative standard deviations were less than 18.8%. The analytical method was accurate and convenient, which can support their further research on stereoselective degradation, residual monitoring and risk assessment.
Diosmetin inhibits apoptosis and activates AMPK‐induced autophagy in myocardial damage under hypoxia environment
Authors: He Wen‐Shuai , Wu Yun , Ren Mao‐Jia , Yu Zhong‐Yu , Zhao Xing‐Sheng
Published: October 2021

Inhibition of hypoxia‐induced cardiomyocyte apoptosis is considered as an important treatment method for ischemic heart diseases, but related drugs are still insufficient. The present study aims to explore the protective function and mechanism of the key Chinese medicine monomer diosmetin (DIOS) on the injury of cardiomyocytes induced by hypoxia. Here, AC16 and HCM‐a cells were treated with 40 μM of DIOS under hypoxic environment and a hypoxic rat model was built to study the role of DIOS. The viability and autophagy of cardiomyocytes were increased, but the apoptosis of cells was suppressed by 40 μM DIOS, under hypoxic environment. Intriguingly, 10 mM 3‐methyladenine, an inhibitor of autophagy, reversed the effect of DIOS on autophagy and apoptosis of the cardiomyocytes under hypoxia. Furthermore, DIOS induced AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) activation and Compound C (5 μM), an AMPK inhibitor, attenuated the inhibition of DIOS on the apoptosis of cardiomyocytes under hypoxia environment. In isoprenaline‐induced hypoxic rats, it was verified that DIOS inhibited apoptosis, accelerated autophagy, and activated AMPKα pathway in vivo. Our findings indicated that DIOS alleviated hypoxia‐induced myocardial apoptosis via inducing the activation of AMPK‐induced autophagy. In summary, the study suggested that DIOS inhibited the apoptosis and induced the autophagy of hypoxia‐induced cardiomyocytes through AMPK activation.
Knowledge hiding in organization: A comprehensive literature review and future research agenda
Authors: Garg Neha , Kumar Chitresh , Ganguly Anirban
Published: October 2021

Research on knowledge hiding has rapidly increased over the past decade, but findings have thus far not been systematically synthesized. This, therefore, has not only hampered the clarity surrounding the construct but also restricted growth in this line of research. The current study thus attempts to integrate the scattered KH literature through a systematic literature review to understand the growth of the KH construct, thereby synthesizing the extant research findings, as well as uncovering areas that require future research. Accordingly, 92 research papers were systematically searched, critically evaluated, and synthesized to make the available knowledge and evidence more accessible to scholars and practitioners. The synthesis not only answers some fundamental, yet blurred questions around the construct, but also provides a composite sense of diverse findings recorded in the extant literature that would assist in drawing conclusions and future decision‐making around knowledge hiding behaviors. It also maps out the relatively neglected areas that require more attention going forward and consequently proposes that the next decade should look forward to more compare and contrast studies from a socio‐economic, cultural, product‐specific, and industrial sector perspective. The study is expected to motivate academicians and researchers to advance the field theoretically by providing a constructive platform for future studies, in the process, advance the literature in this field. Further, it builds a worthwhile case for organizations to recognize the existence of knowledge hiding and judge the associated risks, benefits, and harms to make informed decisions.
Clinical Outcomes of Diffuse Sclerosing Variant Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma in Pediatric Patients
Authors: Brady Charles , Manning Scott C. , Rudzinski Erin , Paulson Vera , Wang Xing , Liu Yajuan J. , Parikh Sanjay R. , Bonilla‐Velez Julianna , Hawkins Douglas S. , Dahl John
Published: October 2021

Objectives/Hypothesis

The diffuse sclerosing variant of papillary thyroid carcinoma (DSV) may be more aggressive than conventional well‐differentiated non‐DSV related papillary thyroid carcinomas (N‐PTC).

Study Design

Retrospective chart review.

Methods

Retrospective review of clinical outcomes for patients 21 years of age or younger who underwent initial surgery for PTC at a single institution from January 1, 2005 to April 1, 2020. Genomic analysis was performed using targeted next‐generation sequencing. Data were analyzed using Fischer's exact test and Kaplan–Meier curve log‐rank test.

Results

Our cohort consisted of 72 patients, nine with DSV and 63 with N‐PTC. Age at diagnosis was comparable (15.4 vs. 16.2 years, respectively,P = .46). DSV were more likely to be in the high‐risk American Thyroid Academy pediatric risk group (100% vs. 41.3%,P = .004), to present with regional cervical lymph node metastases (100% vs. 60.3%,P = .036), and to present with distant metastases (67% vs. 22%,P = .005). No mortality seen in either group over 27.5 (interquartile range 14.8, 46.00) months average follow‐up. Throughout the follow‐up period, DSV were more likely to experience progression than N‐PTC (hazard ratio = 5.7 [95% confidence interval 1.7–20.0;P = .0056]). In a subset of 19 patients with aggressive disease who had molecular testing as part of clinical care we detectedRETfusions in nearly all DSV compared to a minority of N‐PTC (83% vs. 15.4%,P = .0095).

Conclusions

Pediatric patients with DSV have more advanced disease at diagnosis and are more likely to experience progression of disease compared to patients with N‐PTC. The prevalence ofRETfusions in our cohort recapitulates the frequency of this alteration described in prior studies.

Level of Evidence

4Laryngoscope, 132:1132–1138, 2022
Quantification of the Impact of Intraoperative Ultrasound in Transoral Robotic Tongue Base Reduction
Authors: Hsu Heng‐Jui , Wu Jiunn‐Liang , Hsiao Jenn‐Ren , Lin Cheng‐Yu
Published: October 2021

Objectives/Hypothesis

Transoral robotic surgery (TORS) in the base of the tongue (BOT) reduction has been shown to decrease the apnea‐hypopnea index (AHI) and improve daytime sleepiness in obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) patients. Intraoperative ultrasound (IOU) can be employed to guide the surgery and prevent massive bleeding.

Study Design

Cohort study with historical control.

Methods

A cohort study to compare the outcomes between OSA patients who received TORS with and without IOU assistance.

Results

From 2016 to 2019, this study enrolled 80 OSA patients who underwent TORS in BOT: 57 in the IOU(+) and 23 in IOU(−) groups. The TORS with IOU presented with shorter operative time, less blood loss, and greater excised BOT volume. The IOU(+) group had greater improvement in the AHI and subjective questionnaire evaluation. The excised volume of BOT was significantly associated with the change in AHI.

Conclusion

The IOU could improve outcomes in BOT reduction surgery without raising the risk of surgical complications.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 132:1125–1131, 2022
Stoichiometric theory shapes enzyme kinetics in paddy bulk soil but not in rhizosphere soil
Authors: Liu Yuhuai , Shahbaz Muhammad , Fang Yunying , Li Baozhen , Wei Xiaomeng , Zhu Zhenke , Lynn Tin Mar , Lu Shunbao , Shibistova Olga , Wu Jinshui , Guggenberger Georg , Ge Tida
Published: October 2021

The available carbon (C) to phosphorus (P) ratio in the soil is regulated by extracellular hydrolases for C and P acquisition by microbes and plants. However, the stoichiometric relationship between acquiring C and P in paddy rhizosphere and bulk soils remains unclear. The objective was to explore the underlying mechanisms of C and P acquisition stoichiometry in rhizosphere and bulk soils in response to P fertilization and cellulose addition. Amendment with either cellulose or P separately caused a significant increase in the maximal velocity (Vmax) of C acquisition enzymes (β‐1,4‐glucosidase and β‐cellobiohydrolase) but decreased that of P acquisition enzymes (acid and alkaline phosphomonoesterases) in bulk soil. In contrast, lower Vmax values of C and P acquisition enzymes were observed in rhizosphere soil than in bulk soil. The co‐application of cellulose and P increased the Vmax of P acquisition enzymes in rhizosphere soil but decreased that of only alkaline phosphomonoesterase in bulk soil. Results show that P availability and labile‐C content co‐regulated the P/C acquisition ratio, and two inverse linear relationships were observed. Specifically, the P/C acquisition ratio was negatively related to both the dissolved organic C/Olsen‐P ratio and the microbial biomass C/P ratio in rhizosphere soil. However, the P/C acquisition ratio was positively related to both the dissolved organic C/Olsen‐P ratio and the microbial biomass C/P ratio in bulk soil. Overall, microbes mineralized less organic P to acquire P in paddy soil rhizosphere (i.e., containing higher labile‐C) than in bulk soil (i.e., having lower labile‐C contents).
Nitrogen fixation: A poorly understood process along the freshwater‐marine continuum
Authors: Marcarelli Amy M. , Fulweiler Robinson W. , Scott J. Thad
Published: October 2021

N2 fixation is a major component of the global N cycle and has been extensively studied in open‐ocean and terrestrial ecosystems. Yet rates and ecological dynamics remain virtually unknown for the inland and coastal aquatic ecosystems (lakes, wetlands, rivers, streams, and estuaries) that connect terrestrial and marine biomes. This is due to the diversity of these habitats as well as the traditional paradigm that N2 fixation rates were low to nonexistent, and therefore not important, in these ecosystems. We identify three major research themes to advance understanding of aquatic N2 fixation: (1) the biological diversity of diazotrophs and variability of N2 fixation rates, (2) the ecological stoichiometry of N2 fixation, and (3) the upscaling of N2 fixation rates from genes to ecosystems. Coordinating research across these areas will advance limnology and oceanography by fully integrating N2 fixation into ecological dynamics of aquatic ecosystems from local to global scales.
High Performance Double Conductive Network Hydrogel Based on Soaking Strategy for Supercapacitors
Authors: Wang Xiaoyu , Wang Xiangdong , Pi Menghan , Ran Rong
Published: October 2021

High performance and high conductivity have always been important indicators for the application of hydrogels in the field of soft electronics. However, it is difficult for hydrogels to have both high conductivity and excellent mechanical properties. In this paper, a simple and feasible method is proposed, which allows polyvinyl alcohol to be embedded in the porous polyacrylamide chemical crosslinked network to form a structure of rich pores, and then soaked in salt solution to form a dense structure of hydrogels. In order to obtain good mechanical properties and electrical conductivity synchronously the hydrogel is soaked in KCl and NaCl solutions, respectively. However, different properties hydrogels are obtained after soaked in different salt solution, such as the strain of hydrogel after soaked in NaCl solution reached 750%, the conductivity of hydrogel after soaked in KCl solution is high (15.7 S m−1) and performed excellent conductivity even at low temperature (0 °C). In addition to the hydrogel after soaked in KCl solution showed 13.3 mF cm−2 high capacitance, the CV curve with regular shape and low temperature (0 °C) usage capacity when used as super capacitor. The conductive hydrogel can be used as artificial neural signal sensor, allowing produce artificial skin in medical field.
Comparing the associations of three psychometric scales at baseline with long‐term prognosis of depression over a 10‐year period
Authors: Hung Ching‐I , Liu Chia‐Yih , Hsu Shih‐Chieh , Yang Ching‐Hui
Published: October 2021

Objective

The Depression and Somatic Symptoms Scale (DSSS), a free scale, includes depression (DS) and somatic (SS) subscales. This study aimed to compare the associations of the baseline DSSS, Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAMD) and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) scores with the outcome of depression over a 10‐year follow‐up period.

Methods

Two hundred ninety outpatients with major depressive disorder (MDD) were enrolled and were followed‐up at the 6‐month, 2‐year, and 10‐year points. The three scales were administered at each follow‐up. Multiple linear regressions were used to compare the associations.

Results

In a comparison of the HAMD, DS, and HADS‐depression, the HAMD and DS scores at baseline were most strongly associated with the HAMD score at two (6‐month and 2‐year) and one (10‐year) follow‐up points, respectively. In a comparison of the HAMD, DS, SS, HADS‐depression, and HADS‐anxiety, the SS and HAMD scores at baseline were most strongly associated with the HAMD score at two (6‐month and 10‐year) and one (2‐year) follow‐up points, respectively.

Conclusions

The DS, SS, and HAMD scores at baseline were significantly associated with the long‐term outcome of depression. Scales or subscales assessing somatic symptoms might be more strongly associated with the outcome of depression.
Reactive power management by using a modified differential evolution algorithm
Authors: Kar Manoj Kumar , Kumar Sanjay , Singh Arun Kumar , Panigrahi Sibarama
Published: October 2021

In this article, a modified differential evolution (MDE) algorithm is proposed and applied to provide the solution for reactive power management by incorporating the flexible alternating current transmission systems (FACTS) controllers. The proper siting of FACTS controller has been achieved with an objective to minimize the losses and to improve the loading capability. The power flow analysis is performed to determine the optimal position for FACTS controllers. These controllers are incorporated in the most heavily loaded lines and hence controls the power flow in that particular line and allow more power to be transmitted in the remaining lines. The proposed MDE algorithm uses a novel DE/best3/1/bin mutation operator to produce three temporary mutant vectors which are averaged to obtain the mutant vector. Hence, the decision vectors of a generation simultaneously move toward the three best decision vectors of the population thereby maintains a better trade between exploration and exploitation. The proposed MDE algorithm is applied on different standard test bus (i.e., IEEE30, IEEE57, and IEEE118) systems with varying active and reactive loading (i.e., 100%, 110%, and 120%). The proposed method's performance is compared to those obtained from some well‐known meta‐heuristic algorithms. The proposed MDE algorithm optimized FACTS controllers reduce transmission loss by 60.90% in IEEE30 bus, 49.72% in IEEE57 bus and 8.37% in IEEE118 bus test system under base loading. The statistical analysis of the obtained results is carried out using the Wilcoxon signed rank test and the Friedman and Nemenyi hypothesis test, which ensures the reliability and robustness of the proposed method.
Design of sodium alginate/soybean extract beads loaded with hemp hurd and halloysite as novel and sustainable systems for methylene blue adsorption
Authors: Viscusi Gianluca , Lamberti Elena , Gorrasi Giuliana
Published: October 2021

This work concerns the fabrication of a green, novel, and sustainable system for the efficient removal of methylene blue from aqueous solutions. The proposed system is obtained by using sodium alginate/soybean extract blend reinforced with hemp hurd from agro‐waste resources and halloysite nanotubes (HNTs). The ionotropic gelation methodology, using calcium chloride as a crosslinking agent, was easily applied to obtain composite beads. The adsorption studies were carried out up to 24 h using methylene blue as model system. The effect of HNTs on adsorption capacity was investigated proving that an increase in inorganic filler determined an increase in adsorption capacity from 32 to 49 mg/g by adding 35% wt of HNTs. The experimental data were fitted through four different models, demonstrating that the adsorption phenomenon is described by second‐order process. Film diffusion and pore diffusion values were evaluated to better investigate the rate controlling mechanisms. Isotherm studies were then carried out to extrapolate thermodynamic parameters. Finally, a possible mechanism of adsorption was proposed on the basis of chemisorption mechanism. Here, we demonstrate that the proposed novel, inexpensive, and sustainable composite material obtained from agro‐waste resources has high efficiency in removing a cationic dye from wastewaters.
Peptide probes containing a non‐hydrolyzable phosphotyrosine‐mimetic residue for enrichment of protein tyrosine phosphatases
Authors: Tsumagari Kazuya , Niinae Tomoya , Otaka Akira , Ishihama Yasushi
Published: October 2021

We developed peptide probes containing a non‐hydrolyzable phosphotyrosine mimetic, 4‐[difluoro(phosphono)methyl]‐L‐phenylalanine (F2Pmp) for the enrichment of protein tyrosine phosphatases (PTPs). We found that different F2Pmp probes can enrich different PTPs, depending on the probe sequence. Furthermore, proteins containing a Src homology 2 (SH2) domain were enriched together. Importantly, probes containing phosphotyrosine instead of F2Pmp failed to enrich PTPs due to dephosphorylation during the pulldown step. This enrichment approach using peptides containing F2Pmp could be a generic tool for tyrosine phosphatome analysis without the use of antibodies.
Population pharmacokinetic–pharmacodynamic modeling of PB2452, a monoclonal antibody fragment being developed as a ticagrelor reversal agent, in healthy volunteers
Authors: Kathman Steven J. , Wheeler Jeffery J. , Bhatt Deepak L. , Arnold Susan E. , Lee John S.
Published: October 2021

PB2452, a neutralizing monoclonal antibody fragment that binds the antiplatelet drug ticagrelor with high affinity, is being developed as a ticagrelor reversal agent. To identify a clinically useful intravenous (i.v.) reversal regimen, a semimechanistic exposure‐response model was developed during the PB2452 first‐in‐human phase I study. From a randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, single‐dose trial to evaluate the safety, efficacy, and pharmacokinetics (PKs) of PB2452 in 61 healthy volunteers pretreated with ticagrelor, sequential dose cohort data were used to build and refine an exposure‐response model that combined population PK models for ticagrelor (TICA), ticagrelor active metabolite (TAM), and PB2452, and related their binding relationships to the PK of uncomplexed TICA and TAM which is predictive of platelet inhibition. Platelet function was assessed by multiple assays. The model was developed using Bayesian methods in NONMEM. Human PK and pharmacodynamic data from sequential dose cohorts were used to initially define and then refine model parameters. Model simulations indicated that an initial i.v. bolus of PB2452, followed by a high‐rate infusion, and then a slower‐rate infusion would provide immediate and sustained reversal of the antiplatelet effects of ticagrelor. Based on model predictions, a 6 g i.v. bolus followed by 6 g infused over 4 h and then 6 g over 12 h was identified and tested in study subjects and shown to provide complete reversal within 5 min of infusion onset that was sustained for 20–24 h. The model is predictive of the reversal profile of PB2452 and will inform future trials of PB2452.
Spatial characteristics and influencing factors of Chinese traditional villages in eight provinces the Yellow River flows through
Authors: Gao Chenge , Wu Ying , Bian Chenlong , Gao Xingxi
Published: October 2021

Along with global urbanization and the dominant trend toward urban‐based policies, traditional villages are facing imbalanced development and the fate of revitalization or decline. In this study, 1,222 Chinese traditional villages in eight provinces the Yellow River flows through have been selected as the typical physical bearers of Chinese civilization of an investigation into the multi‐scale spatial characteristics, and multiple influencing factors and mechanisms for regional patterns and spatial differentiation. Spatial analysis methods, including nearest neighbor index and kernel density, are applied to figure out the great regional differentiation in the overall pattern and specific distribution characteristics in each province. Physical environment factors and socioeconomic influencing factors are analyzed and compared using geographical detectors. The results show that: (a) The overall spatial distribution of the traditional villages shows great regional differentiation and is characterized by “two cores,” “three distribution modes,” and “four types of the absence” of traditional villages; (b) the spatial distribution of traditional villages in the Yellow River Basin is affected both by natural factors and by socioeconomic factors, with natural factors having the greater impact; and (c) there is no inevitable correlation between the level of economic development and the rise and fall of traditional villages. By analyzing and revealing the external forces and internal motivation and influencing factors of renewal and evolution, and the wisdom and culture behind the physical places, this research can deepen the understanding of traditional villages, enable traditional society to better adapt to contemporary society, and provide reference for rural revitalization and regional development of rural areas and the Yellow River Basin.
Introduction to computational causal inference using reproducible Stata, R, and Python code: A tutorial
Authors: Smith Matthew J. , Mansournia Mohammad A. , Maringe Camille , Zivich Paul N. , Cole Stephen R. , Leyrat Clémence , Belot Aurélien , Rachet Bernard , Luque‐Fernandez Miguel A.
Published: October 2021

The main purpose of many medical studies is to estimate the effects of a treatment or exposure on an outcome. However, it is not always possible to randomize the study participants to a particular treatment, therefore observational study designs may be used. There are major challenges with observational studies; one of which is confounding. Controlling for confounding is commonly performed by direct adjustment of measured confounders; although, sometimes this approach is suboptimal due to modeling assumptions and misspecification. Recent advances in the field of causal inference have dealt with confounding by building on classical standardization methods. However, these recent advances have progressed quickly with a relative paucity of computational‐oriented applied tutorials contributing to some confusion in the use of these methods among applied researchers. In this tutorial, we show the computational implementation of different causal inference estimators from a historical perspective where new estimators were developed to overcome the limitations of the previous estimators (ie, nonparametric and parametric g‐formula, inverse probability weighting, double‐robust, and data‐adaptive estimators). We illustrate the implementation of different methods using an empirical example from the Connors study based on intensive care medicine, and most importantly, we provide reproducible and commented code in Stata, R, and Python for researchers to adapt in their own observational study. The code can be accessed at
https://github.com/migariane/Tutorial_Computational_Causal_Inference_Estimators.
Growth Factor‐Decorated Ti3C2 MXene/MoS2 2D Bio‐Heterojunctions with Quad‐Channel Photonic Disinfection for Effective Regeneration of Bacteria‐Invaded Cutaneous Tissue
Authors: Yang Zhaopu , Fu Xinliang , Ma Daichuan , Wang Yulin , Peng Liming , Shi Jiacheng , Sun Jiyu , Gan Xueqi , Deng Yi , Yang Weizhong
Published: October 2021

Phototherapy has recently emerged as a competent alternative for combating bacterial infection without antibiotic‐resistance risk. However, owing to the bacterial endogenous antioxidative glutathione (GSH), the exogenous reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated by phototherapy can hardly behave desired antibacterial effect. To address the daunting issue, a quad‐channel synergistic antibacterial nano‐platform of Ti3C2 MXene/MoS2 (MM) 2D bio‐heterojunctions (2D bio‐HJs) are devised and fabricated, which possess photothermal, photodynamic, peroxidase‐like (POD‐like), and glutathione oxidase‐like properties. Under near‐infrared (NIR) laser exposure, the 2D bio‐HJs both yield localized heating and raise extracellular ROS level, leading to bacterial inactivation. Synchronously, Mo4+ ions can easily invade into ruptured bacterial membrane, arouse intracellular ROS, and deplete intracellular GSH. Squeezed between the “ROS hurricane” from both internal and external sides, the bacteria are hugely slaughtered. After being further loaded with fibroblast growth factor‐21 (FGF21), the 2D bio‐HJs exhibit benign cytocompatibility and boost cell migration in vitro. Notably, the in vivo evaluations employing a mouse‐infected wound model demonstrate the excellent photonic disinfection towards bacterial infection and accelerated wound healing. Overall, this work provides a powerful nano‐platform for the effective regeneration of bacteria‐invaded cutaneous tissue using 2D bio‐HJs.
Dynamic CoRu Bond Shrinkage at Atomically Dispersed Ru Sites for Alkaline Hydrogen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Zhang Hui , Su Hui , Soldatov Mikhail A. , Li Yuanli , Zhao Xu , Liu Meihuan , Zhou Wanlin , Zhang Xiuxiu , Sun Xuan , Xu Yanzhi , Yao Peng , Wei Shiqiang , Liu Qinghua
Published: October 2021

Accurately manipulating the electronic structure of metal active sites under working conditions is central to developing efficient and stable electrocatalysts in industrial water‐alkali electrolyzers. However, the lack of an intuitive means to capture the evolution of metal sites during the reaction state inhibits the manipulation of its electronic structure. Here, atomically dispersed Ru single‐sites on cobalt nanoparticles confined onto macro‐microporous frameworks (M‐Co NPs@Ru SAs/NC) with tunable electron coupling effect for efficient catalysis of alkaline hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) are constructed. Using operando X‐ray absorption and infrared spectroscopies, a dynamic CoRu bond shrinkage with strong electron coupling effect under working conditions is identified, which significantly promotes the adsorption of water molecules and then accelerates its dissociation to form the key H* over Ru sites for high HER activity. The well‐designed M‐Co NPs@Ru SAs/NC delivers efficient HER performance with a small overpotential of 34 mV at 10 mA cm−2 and a high turnover frequency of ≈4284 H2 h−1 at −0.05 V, 40 times higher than that of the benchmark Pt/C. This work provides a new point of view to manipulate the electronic structure of the metal active sites for highly effective electrocatalysis processes.
Co‐exploring relational heuristics for sustainability transitions towards more resilient and just Anthropocene futures
Authors: Preiser Rika , Biggs Reinette , Hamann Maike , Sitas Nadia , Selomane Odirilwe , Waddell Joy , Clements Hayley , Hichert Tanja
Published: October 2021

In this paper, four relational heuristic responses for exploring new modes of engagement, or patterns of activity, that could enliven humanity's efforts in fostering systemic thinking and action to inform sustainability transitions are offered. Their purpose is to realise more resilient and just Anthropocene futures. These relational heuristics are (1) re‐patterning our theories of change‐making, (2) cultivating a shared future consciousness, (3) creating transformative spaces and (4) engaging in processes of co‐exploration. We argue that these heuristics are better aligned for studying and responding to the systemic and interdependent nature of the real‐world challenges we are currently facing.
Alkali activated cement mixture at ambient curing: Strength, workability, and setting time
Authors: Tekle Biruk Hailu , Holschemacher Klaus
Published: October 2021

The success of ordinary Portland cement (OPC) comes at a risk to the environment because of the large carbon dioxide emissions associated with cement manufacturing. This has led the scientific community to look for alternative cementitious materials with lower environmental impact. Alkali activated cement (AAC) is an excellent alternative to this end. In this study, the effect of binder content, alkaline solid to binder ratio (AS/B), sodium silicate to sodium hydroxide solids ratio (SS/SH), and total water content to total solid binder ratio (TW/TB) on the strength, setting time and flowability of ambient cured AAC mixtures are studied using Taguchi method of experimental design. Binder content was varied from 550 to 750 kg/m3, AS/B ratio from 0.14 to 0.22, SS/SH ratio from 1.5 to 2.5, and TW/TB ratio from 0.29 to 0.39. The study results showed that within the investigated range, an increase in binder content has a minor effect on strength but resulted in a considerable increase in setting time and flowability. An increase in the AS/B ratio resulted in increased flowability and setting time and a decrease in strength. Moreover, the study also investigated the relationship between compressive strength and flexural strength.
Images of Science: A Reality Check
Authors: Miedema Frank
Published: October 2021

It will be argued that the dominant form of current academic science is based on ideas and concepts about science and research that date back to philosophy and sociology that was developed since the 1930s. It will be discussed how this philosophy and sociology of science has informed the ideas, myths and ideology about science held by the scientific community and still determines the popular view of science. It is even more amazing when we realize that these ideas are philosophically and sociologically untenable and since the 1970s were declared obsolete by major scholars in these same disciplines. To demonstrate this, I delve deep to discuss the distinct stages that scholars in philosophy, sociology and history of science since 1945 to 2000 have gone through to leave the analytical-positivistic philosophy behind. I will be focusing on developments of their thinking about major topics such as: how scientific knowledge is produced, the scientific method; the status of scientific knowledge and the development of our ideas about ‘truth’ and the relation of our claims to reality. It will appear that the positivistic ideas about science producing absolute truth, about ‘the unique scientific method’, its formal logical approach and its timeless foundation as a guarantee for our value-free, objective knowledge were not untenable. This is to show how thoroughly the myth has been demystified in philosophy and sociology of science. You think after these fifty pages I am kicking a dead horse? Not at all! This scientific demystification has unfortunately still not reached active scientists. In fact, the popular image of science and research is still largely based on a that Legend. This is not without consequence as will be shown in Chap. 3. These images of science have shaped and in fact distorted the organisational structures of academia and the interaction between its institutes and disciplines. It also affects the relationship of science with its stakeholders in society, its funders, the many publics private and public, and policy makers in government. In short, it determines to a large degree the growth of knowledge with major effects on society.