bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spatial distribution and potential health risk of fluoride in drinking groundwater sources of Huaibei, Anhui Province
Authors: Hu Yunhu , You Mu , Liu Guijian , Dong Zhongbing
Published: April 2021

Fluoride enrichment in drinking groundwater at Huaibei leads to potential health risk to the residents. A total of 49 groundwater samples from groundwater sources were collected to evaluate the potential health risk of fluoride ingestion through drinking water for children and adults in Huaibei. Results shown that the average concentration of fluoride in centralized sources is less than that of decentralized sources, which may be attributed to different geological conditions including fluoride-rich minerals, environmental conditions and high fluoride waste discharge. The corresponding health risk value of fluoride in centralized source is lower than that in decentralized one, and the HI values of fluoride in the three exposed groups varied in the same order: infants > children > adults. Infants and children were more sensitive receptors to the non-carcinogenic health hazards of fluoride than adults. Special care should be taken to infants and children for the highly prone to health risk compared to adults.
Discrimination of skyrmion chirality via spin–orbit and –transfer torques for logic operation
Authors: Nakatani Yoshinobu , Yamada Keisuke , Hirohata Atsufumi
Published: April 2021

Recently many works on magnetic memories and logic circuits, which use a magnetic skyrmion have been reported. Previously we micromagnetically simulated a method to switch a chirality of a magnetic skyrmion formed in a magnetic thin film by introducing a pulsed heat spot. In this paper, we propose a method to discriminate the chirality of a skyrmion in a branched nanowire by using spin–orbit torque (SOT) and spin-transfer torque (STT), and confirm the validity of the method by using simulation. The simulated results show that the motion changes depending on the chirality when additional SOT is applied on a skyrmion moving in a branch by STT. This method can be used as a fundamental building block for electrical detection in memory and logic devices using the chirality of skyrmions as a data bit in addition to the presence (and polarity) of the skyrmions as conventionally used, which can be lead to multiple-valued operation.
Highly improved supercapacitance properties of MnFe2O4 nanoparticles by MoS2 nanosheets
Authors: Sharifi Samira , Rahimi Kourosh , Yazdani Ahmad
Published: April 2021

Manganese ferrite (MnFe2O4) nanoparticles were synthesized via a hydrothermal method and combined with exfoliated MoS2 nanosheets, and the nanocomposite was studied as a supercapacitor. X-ray diffractometry and Raman spectroscopy confirmed the crystalline structures and structural characteristics of the nanocomposite. Transmission electron microscopy images showed the uniform size distribution of MnFe2O4 nanoparticles (~ 13 nm) on few-layer MoS2 nanosheets. UV–visible absorption photospectrometry indicated a decrease in the bandgap of MnFe2O4 by MoS2, resulting in a higher conductivity that is suitable for capacitance. Electrochemical tests showed that the incorporation of MoS2 nanosheets largely increased the specific capacitance of MnFe2O4 from 600 to 2093 F/g (with the corresponding energy density and power density of 46.51 Wh/kg and 213.64 W/kg, respectively) at 1 A/g, and led to better charge–discharge cycling stability. We also demonstrated a real-world application of the MnFe2O4/MoS2 nanocomposite in a two-cell asymmetric supercapacitor setup. A density functional theory study was also performed on the MnFe2O4/MoS2 interface to analyze how a MoS2 monolayer can enhance the electronic properties of MnFe2O4 towards a higher specific capacitance.
A decadal perspective on north water microbial eukaryotes as Arctic Ocean sentinels
Authors: Freyria Nastasia J. , Joli Nathalie , Lovejoy Connie
Published: April 2021

The North Water region, between Greenland and Ellesmere Island, with high populations of marine birds and mammals, is an Arctic icon. Due to climate related changes, seasonal patterns in water column primary production are changing but the implications for the planktonic microbial eukaryote communities that support the ecosystem are unknown. Here we report microbial community phenology in samples collected over 12 years (2005–2018) from July to October and analysed using high throughput 18S rRNA V4 amplicon sequencing. Community composition was tied to seasonality with summer communities more variable than distinct October communities. In summer, sentinel pan-Arctic species, including a diatom in the Chaetoceros socialis-gelidus complex and the picochlorophyte Micromonas polaris dominated phytoplankton and were summer specialists. In autumn, uncultured undescribed open water dinoflagellates were favored, and their ubiquity suggests they are sentinels of arctic autumn conditions. Despite the input of nutrients into surface waters, autumn chlorophyll concentrations remained low, refuting projected scenarios that longer ice-free seasons are synonymous with high autumn production and a diatom dominated bloom. Overall, the summer sentinel microbial taxa are persisting, and a subset oceanic dinoflagellate should be monitored for possible ecosystem shifts as later autumn ice formation becomes prevalent elsewhere.
A cell based assay for evaluating binding and uptake of an antibody using hepatic nonparenchymal cells
Authors: Noguchi Yuki , Ozeki Kazuhisa , Takesue Hiroaki , Akita Hidetaka
Published: April 2021

Evaluation of the binding and uptake of an antibody in liver non-parenchymal cells (NPC), including liver sinusoidal endothelial cells, is important for revealing its pharmacokinetic (PK) behavior, since NPC has important roles in eliminating an antibody from the blood via the Fc fragment of IgG receptor IIB (FcγRIIB). However, there is currently no in vitro quantitative assay using NPC. This study reports on the development of a cell-based assay for evaluating the binding and uptake of such an antibody using liver NPC of mice and monkeys. In mice, the FcγRIIB-expressing cells were identified in the CD146-positive and CD45-negative fraction by flow cytometry. A titration assay was performed to determine the PK parameters, and the obtained parameter was comparable to that determined by the fitting of the in vivo PK. This approach was also extended to NPC from monkeys. The concentration-dependent binding and uptake was measured to determine the PK parameters using monkey NPC, the FcγRIIB-expressing fraction of which was identified by CD31 and CD45. The findings presented herein demonstrate that the in vitro liver NPC assay using flow cytometry is a useful tool to determine the binding and uptake of biologics and to predict the PK.
Author Correction: Plasmon coupling nanorice trimer for ultrahigh enhancement of hyper-Raman scattering
Authors: Zhu Shuangmei , Fan Chunzhen , Liang Erjun , Ding Pei , Dong Xiguang , Hao Haoshan , Hou Hongwei , Wu Yuanda
Published: April 2021

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Microsecond-timescale MD simulation of EGFR minor mutation predicts the structural flexibility of EGFR kinase core that reflects EGFR inhibitor sensitivity
Authors: Yoshizawa Takahiro , Uchibori Ken , Araki Mitsugu , Matsumoto Shigeyuki , Ma Biao , Kanada Ryo , Seto Yosuke , Oh-hara Tomoko , Koike Sumie , Ariyasu Ryo , Kitazono Satoru , Ninomiya Hironori , Takeuchi Kengo , Yanagitani Noriko , Takagi Satoshi , Kishi Kazuma , Fujita Naoya , Okuno Yasushi , Nishio Makoto , Katayama Ryohei
Published: April 2021

Approximately 15–30% of patients with lung cancer harbor mutations in the EGFR gene. Major EGFR mutations (>90% of EGFR-mutated lung cancer) are highly sensitive to EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs). Many uncommon EGFR mutations have been identified, but little is known regarding their characteristics, activation, and sensitivity to various EGFR-TKIs, including allosteric inhibitors. We encountered a case harboring an EGFR-L747P mutation, originally misdiagnosed with EGFR-del19 mutation using a routine diagnostic EGFR mutation test, which was resistant to EGFR-TKI gefitinib. Using this minor mutation and common EGFR-activating mutations, we performed the binding free energy calculations and microsecond-timescale molecular dynamic (MD) simulations, revealing that the L747P mutation considerably stabilizes the active conformation through a salt-bridge formation between K745 and E762. We further revealed why several EGFR inhibitors, including the allosteric inhibitor, were ineffective. Our computational structural analysis strategy would be beneficial for future drug development targeting the EGFR minor mutations.
1D metallic states at 2D transition metal dichalcogenide semiconductor heterojunctions
Authors: Krishnamurthi Sridevi , Brocks Geert
Published: April 2021

Two-dimensional (2D) lateral heterojunctions between different transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs) have been realized in recent years. Homogeneous semiconducting TMDC layers are characterized by a topological invariant, their in-plane electric polarization. It suggests the possibility of one-dimensional (1D) metallic states at heterojunctions where the value of the invariant changes. We study such lateral 2D TMDC junctions by means of first-principles calculations and show that 1D metallic states emerge even in cases where the different materials are joined epitaxially. We find that the metallicity does not depend on structural details, but, as the invariant is protected by spatial symmetry only, it can be upset by breaking the symmetry. Indeed, 1D charge- and spin-density wave instabilities appear spontaneously, making 2D TMDC heterojunctions ideal systems for studying 1D systems.
Superlubricity under ultrahigh contact pressure enabled by partially oxidized black phosphorus nanosheets
Authors: Ren Xiaoyong , Yang Xiao , Xie Guoxin , He Feng , Wang Rong , Zhang Chenhui , Guo Dan , Luo Jianbin
Published: April 2021

Superlubricity has recently raised an increasing interest owing to its great potential in energy saving and environmental benefits. Yet how to obtain stable superlubricity under an ultrahigh contact pressure (>1 GPa) still remains a challenge. Here, we demonstrate that robust liquid superlubricity can be realized even under a contact pressure of 1193 MPa by lubrication with partially oxidized black phosphorus (oBP) nanosheets. The analysis indicates that the oBP nanosheets that absorb large amounts of water molecules are retained at the friction interface and transform the friction pairs interface to that between the oBP nanosheets. Molecular dynamics simulation demonstrates that water molecules could be retained at the friction interface even under the ultrahigh contact pressure owing to the abundant P=O and P–OH bonds formed on the oBP nanosheet surfaces, contributing to the achievement of stable superlubricity under the ultrahigh contact pressure. This work has the potential of introducing the liquid superlubricity concept in diverse industrial applications involving high-contact-pressure operating conditions.
Using digital surveillance tools for near real-time mapping of the risk of infectious disease spread
Authors: Bhatia Sangeeta , Lassmann Britta , Cohn Emily , Desai Angel N. , Carrion Malwina , Kraemer Moritz U. G. , Herringer Mark , Brownstein John , Madoff Larry , Cori Anne , Nouvellet Pierre
Published: April 2021

Data from digital disease surveillance tools such as ProMED and HealthMap can complement the field surveillance during ongoing outbreaks. Our aim was to investigate the use of data collected through ProMED and HealthMap in real-time outbreak analysis. We developed a flexible statistical model to quantify spatial heterogeneity in the risk of spread of an outbreak and to forecast short term incidence trends. The model was applied retrospectively to data collected by ProMED and HealthMap during the 2013–2016 West African Ebola epidemic and for comparison, to WHO data. Using ProMED and HealthMap data, the model was able to robustly quantify the risk of disease spread 1–4 weeks in advance and for countries at risk of case importations, quantify where this risk comes from. Our study highlights that ProMED and HealthMap data could be used in real-time to quantify the spatial heterogeneity in risk of spread of an outbreak.
CryoET structures of immature HIV Gag reveal six-helix bundle
Authors: Mendonça Luiza , Sun Dapeng , Ning Jiying , Liu Jiwei , Kotecha Abhay , Olek Mateusz , Frosio Thomas , Fu Xiaofeng , Himes Benjamin A. , Kleinpeter Alex B. , Freed Eric O. , Zhou Jing , Aiken Christopher , Zhang Peijun
Published: April 2021

Gag is the HIV structural precursor protein which is cleaved by viral protease to produce mature infectious viruses. Gag is a polyprotein composed of MA (matrix), CA (capsid), SP1, NC (nucleocapsid), SP2 and p6 domains. SP1, together with the last eight residues of CA, have been hypothesized to form a six-helix bundle responsible for the higher-order multimerization of Gag necessary for HIV particle assembly. However, the structure of the complete six-helix bundle has been elusive. Here, we determined the structures of both Gag in vitro assemblies and Gag viral-like particles (VLPs) to 4.2 Å and 4.5 Å resolutions using cryo-electron tomography and subtomogram averaging by emClarity. A single amino acid mutation (T8I) in SP1 stabilizes the six-helix bundle, allowing to discern the entire CA-SP1 helix connecting to the NC domain. These structures provide a blueprint for future development of small molecule inhibitors that can lock SP1 in a stable helical conformation, interfere with virus maturation, and thus block HIV-1 infection.
Hydrogenation of benzoic acid derivatives over Pt/TiO2 under mild conditions
Authors: Guo Miao , Kong Xiangtao , Li Chunzhi , Yang Qihua
Published: April 2021

Hydrogenation of benzoic acid (BA) to cyclohexanecarboxylic acid (CCA) has important industrial and academic significance, however, the electron deficient aromatic ring and catalyst poisoning by carboxyl groups make BA hydrogenation a challenging transformation. Herein, we report that Pt/TiO2 is very effective for BA hydrogenation with, to our knowledge, a record TOF of 4490 h−1 at 80 °C and 50 bar H2, one order higher than previously reported results. Pt/TiO2 catalysts with electron-deficient and electron-enriched Pt sites are obtained by modifying the electron transfer direction between Pt and TiO2. Electron-deficient Pt sites interact with BA more strongly than electron-rich Pt sites, helping the dissociated H of the carboxyl group to participate in BA hydrogenation, thus enhancing its activity. The wide substrate scope, including bi- and tri-benzoic acids, further demonstrates the high efficiency of Pt/TiO2 for hydrogenation of BA derivatives.
Combined use of epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) and caffeine in low doses exhibits marked anti-obesity synergy through regulation of gut microbiota and bile acid metabolism
Authors: Zhu Ming-zhi , Zhou Fang , Ouyang Jian , Wang Qi-ye , Li Yi-long , Wu Jian-lin , Huang Jian-an , Liu Zhong-hua
Published: April 2021

Combined use of epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) and caffeine in low doses exhibits marked anti-obesity synergy. The synergistic effect may be attributed to regulation of gut microbiota and BA metabolism.
Sargassum fusiforme together with turmeric extract and pomegranate peel extract alleviates obesity in high fat-fed C57BL/6J mice
Authors: Zhou Sainan , Zhang Qing , Gao Yuan , Liu Fang , Cao Wanxiu , Li Zhaojie , Xue Changhu , Tang Qingjuan
Published: April 2021

Sargassum fusiforme together with the turmeric extract and pomegranate peel extract may effectively reduce fat accumulation and improve the disorder of intestinal flora in obese mice.
First-principles study of the electronic structures and optical and photocatalytic performances of van der Waals heterostructures of SiS, P and SiC monolayers
Authors: Alam Qaisar , Muhammad S. , Idrees M. , Hieu Nguyen V. , Binh Nguyen T. T. , Nguyen C. , Amin Bin
Published: April 2021

The electronic structures and optical and photocatalytic properties of SiS, P and SiC van der Waals (vdW) heterostructures are investigated by (hybrid) first-principles calculations.
Low-valence titanium oxides synthesized by electric field control as novel conversion anodes for high performance sodium-ion batteries
Authors: Tao Hongwei , Wang Ruxing , Tang Yun , Zhou Min , Wang Kangli , Hu Jianwei , Feng Pingyuan , Chen Manlin , Li Haomiao , Jiang Kai
Published: April 2021

The low-valence titanium oxides (TiO, Ti2O) were synthesized by electric field control method. The multi-electron redox reactions and fast charge transfer kinetics result in the excellent Na storage performances of low-valence titanium oxides.
TcO2 oxidative dissolution by birnessite under anaerobic conditions: a solid–solid redox reaction impacting the environmental mobility of Tc-99
Authors: Stanberry Jordan , Szlamkowicz Ilana , Purdy Lauren R. , Anagnostopoulos Vasileios
Published: April 2021

Birnessite oxidizes insoluble TcO2 to mobile TcO4− in the absence of oxygen through consecutive steps of sorption, electron transfer and subsequent dissolution in the aqueous phase.
Non-woven materials for cloth-based face masks inserts: relationship between material properties and sub-micron aerosol filtration
Authors: Crilley Leigh R. , Angelucci Andrea A. , Malile Brian , Young Cora J. , VandenBoer Trevor C. , Chen Jennifer I. L.
Published: April 2021

Sub-micron aerosol filtration of non-woven materials and fabric treatments were investigated. Select low-cost, readily available and easily cut non-woven materials were identified as suitable filter inserts for cloth-based masks.
Pd–In bimetallic nanoparticles supported on chelating resin for nitrate removal from water: high efficiency and low NH4+ selectivity
Authors: Shen Zhanhui , Peng Gege , Gao Ya , Shi Jialu
Published: April 2021

The supported Cu/Pd bimetallic catalyst could prestore hydrogen and no additional reducing agent is required during the nitrate reduction process. High nitrate removal efficiency (96%) and low NH4+ selectivity (<2%) were achieved.
Carbon coated cobalt oxide (CC-CO3O4) as electrode material for supercapacitor applications
Authors: Kumar Rahul , Soam Ankur , Sahajwalla Veena
Published: April 2021

Carbon coated cobalt oxide (CC-Co3O4) was synthesized using sucrose and cobalt oxide. CC-Co3O4 can be used as electrode material for supercapacitor applications
Tuning the surface energies in a family of poly-3-alkylthiophenes bearing hydrophilic side-chains synthesized via direct arylation polymerization (DArP)
Authors: Schmitt Alexander , Samal Sanket , Thompson Barry C.
Published: April 2021

A family of Poly(3-alkylthiophene) copolymers bearing different functional groups was synthesized via direct arylation polymerization and the functional group impact on surface energy, crystallinity, and electronic properties was investigated.
Materials chemistry among the artificial solid electrolyte interphases of metallic lithium anodes
Authors: Jiang Chi , Ma Cong , Yang Fan , Cai Xiaohan , Liu Yujing , Tao Xinyong
Published: April 2021

The progress of artificial SEI established by precursors with distinguished chemical compositions are summarized, and outlooks are proposed for the lithium-metal anode investigations regarding comprehensive SEI chemistry identifications.
Tailoring amphotericin B as an ionic liquid: an upfront strategy to potentiate the biological activity of antifungal drugs
Authors: Hartmann Diego O. , Shimizu Karina , Rothkegel Maika , Petkovic Marija , Ferraz Ricardo , Petrovski Željko , Branco Luís C. , Canongia Lopes José N. , Silva Pereira Cristina
Published: April 2021

Antifungal susceptibility assays and molecular dynamics simulation studies reveal a novel cetylpyridinium amphotericin B ionic liquid formulation with dual functionality: antifungal and antibacterial activities.
Synthetic applications of flavin photocatalysis: a review
Authors: Srivastava Vishal , Singh Pravin K. , Srivastava Arjita , Singh Praveen P.
Published: April 2021

Encouraging developments in the field of photocatalysis in last decades, biomolecules namely flavins have been observed to act as a catalyst in several photoredox-catalysed synthetic methodologies.
Unique hierarchical SiO2@ZnIn2S4marigold flower like nanoheterostructure for solar hydrogen production
Authors: Gunjal Aarti R. , Sethi Yogesh A. , Kawade Ujjwala V. , Panmand Rajendra P. , Ugale Chitra K. , Ambekar Jalindar D. , Nagawade Arvind V. , Kale Bharat B.
Published: April 2021

The novel marigold flower like SiO2@ZnIn2S4nano-heterostructure was fabricated using anin situhydrothermal method.
Correction: Metal-free oxidative coupling of arylmethylamines with indoles: a simple, environmentally benign approach for the synthesis of 3,3′-bis(indolyl)methanes
Authors: Kadu Vikas D. , Chandrudu Sankala Naga , Hublikar Mahesh G. , Raut Dattatraya G. , Bhosale Raghunath B.
Published: April 2021

Correction for ‘Metal-free oxidative coupling of arylmethylamines with indoles: a simple, environmentally benign approach for the synthesis of 3,3′-bis(indolyl)methanes” by Vikas D. Kadu et al., RSC Adv., 2020, 10, 23254–23262, DOI: 10.1039/D0RA03221B.
Retraction: The influence of gradient and porous configurations on the microwave absorbing performance of multilayered graphene/thermoplastic polyurethane composite foams
Authors: Wang Chaozhi , Li Jiang , Guo Shaoyun
Published: April 2021

Retraction of ‘The influence of gradient and porous configurations on the microwave absorbing performance of multilayered graphene/thermoplastic polyurethane composite foams’ by Chaozhi Wang et al., RSC Adv., 2019, 9, 21859–21872, DOI: 10.1039/C9RA04735B.
Freestanding interlayers for Li–S batteries: design and synthesis of hierarchically porous N-doped C nanofibers comprising vanadium nitride quantum dots and MOF-derived hollow N-doped C nanocages
Authors: Saroha Rakesh , Oh Jang Hyeok , Seon Young Hoe , Kang Yun Chan , Lee Jae Seob , Jeong Do Won , Cho Jung Sang
Published: April 2021

Herein, a hierarchically developed multifunctional, porous, and freestanding interlayer is utilized for efficient polysulfide absorption and superior electrochemical performance in lithium–sulfur cells with sulfur cathode and low electrolyte volume.
Narbenpflege bei Altershaut
Authors: Skowronsky Anette
Published: April 2021

Im Alter verändert die Haut ihre physiologischen Eigenschaften: Sie wird dünner und weniger widerstandsfähig. Die Wundheilung ist verlangsamt, Komplikationen treten häufiger auf. Diese Veränderungen müssen Therapeuten in der Narbenbehandlung bei älteren Menschen beachten.
Chronisch-venöse Insuffizienz
Authors: Stern Apothekerin Cornelia , Vigl Sebastian , Heilmann-Wagner Krankenpflegerin Elke , Corts Magga
Published: April 2021

Vier Experten stellen die Behandlung von chronisch-venöser Insuffizient mithilfe von Gemmotherapie, Wickel/Auflagen/Kneipp-Anwendungen und Osteopathie vor.
Prüfungsthema: Chronische Erkrankungen
Authors: Schmid Eva C.
Published: April 2021

In diesem HPA-Prüfungstrainer beschäftigen sich alle Fragen mit chronischen Erkrankungen.
Update: Bareinnahmen in der Heilpraktikerpraxis
Authors: Geweke Uwe
Published: April 2021

Aufgrund steuerrechtlicher Änderungen in den Jahren 2017 und 2020 gelten bei der Erfassung von Bareinnahmen und der Kassenführung neue Vorschriften. Sie betreffen insbesondere die Einzelaufzeichnungspflicht für Bareinnahmen, die Kassen-Nachschau und technische Sicherheitseinrichtungen für elektronische beziehungsweise digitale Kassensysteme. Viele Heilpraktiker nutzen die sogenannte offene Ladenkasse. Hier empfiehlt sich zusätzlich zur Einzelaufzeichnung ein Kassenbericht.
Rotes-Skrotum-Syndrom – Übersicht und Fallbeispiel
Authors: Moll I.
Published: April 2021

Das Rote-Skrotum-Syndrom (RSS) ist ein chronisches Erythem der Ventralseite des Skrotums, das scharf umschrieben ist und typischerweise weder Exkoriationen noch Lichenifizierung oder Schuppung aufweist. Es verursacht rezidivierend brennende und ziehende Schmerzen, aber keinen Juckreiz. Es ist selten und betrifft meist ältere Männer. Die Ursachen des RSS sind unklar. Diskutiert werden neurogene Entzündungen, Formen der Erythromelalgie, Rosacea erythematosa oder eine Hypervaskularisation. Ebenso existiert keine etablierte Therapie. Verschiedene topische Therapien, insbesondere Steroide, führen häufig zu Verschlechterungen. Vorsichtig können PEA, Calcineurin-Inhibitoren und pflegende wasserreiche Cremes versucht werden. An systemischen Therapien kommen NSAIDs zur Linderung der Schmerzen, Doxycyclin, Metronidazol, Steroide, Penicillin oder Antihistaminika in Betracht, bei ausbleibender Besserung daneben Gabapentin, Pregabalin, Amitryptilin oder Carvediol. Die Differenzialdiagnosen umfassen generalisierte und lokalisierte Dermatosen.
Liebe Leserin, lieber Leser,
Authors: Bergmann Günther
Published: April 2021

Prof. Dr. mult. Onur Güntürkün, Univ. Bochum, hat auf dem
DPGM/DKPM Kongress im März 2019 als geladener Gastredner vor vollem
Auditorium zu dem Thema „Die Evolution des Denkens“ die Ascona
Lecture der Int. Stiftung Psychosomatik und Sozialmedizin gehalten.
Hochbelastete Gruppen pflegender Angehöriger – Ergebnisse einer Clusteranalyse
Authors: Bohnet-Joschko Sabine , Bidenko Katharina
Published: April 2021

Ziel Ziel der vorliegenden Studie ist die Untersuchung von unterschiedlichen häuslichen Pflegesituationen und die Identifizierung von Gruppen pflegender Angehöriger mit erhöhten gesundheitlichen und finanziellen Belastungen.

Methodik Die Datenerhebung erfolgte mittels einer schriftlichen Befragung von 1429 pflegenden Angehörigen. Als pflegende Angehörige wurden Familienangehörige, Freunde oder Nachbarn definiert, die eine hilfebedürftige Person versorgen. Die Gruppenbildung erfolgte mittels Clusteranalyse. Gruppenunterschiede wurden auf statistische Signifikanz mittels Chi-Quadrat-Test und Varianzanalyse geprüft.

Ergebnisse Es konnten fünf Gruppen von pflegenden Angehörigen anhand ihrer Tätigkeiten in der Pflege identifiziert werden. Die Gruppen sind sowohl durch die Pflegesituation (Verhältnis zu Hilfebedürftigen, zeitlicher Aufwand und Dauer der Pflege) als auch durch soziodemografische Faktoren (Geschlecht, Alter und Erwerbstätigkeit) charakterisiert. Die Gruppen unterscheiden sich bei der Wahrnehmung von mit der Pflegesituation verbundenen Belastungen. Während emotionale Belastung in nahezu allen Gruppen hoch ist, berichteten Angehörige, die täglich grundpflegerische Versorgung leisten, von hoher physischer Belastung und Angehörige, die durchgehend Langzeitpflege erbringen, von hoher finanzieller Belastung.

Schlussfolgerung Pflegende Angehörige sind keine homogene Gruppe. Sie übernehmen unterschiedliche Rollen und sind verschiedenen gesundheitlichen und finanziellen Belastungen ausgesetzt. Die vorgestellte Typologie unterstützt Kassen und Gebietskörperschaften bei der Entwicklung und Vermittlung wirksamer Unterstützungsangebote für hochbelastete Gruppen pflegender Angehöriger.
COVID-19-bedingte Kontaktbeschränkungen in Deutschland und Veränderungen der körperlichen Aktivität
Authors: Tschuschke Lara , Schröder Jan
Published: April 2021

Hintergrund und Ziel der Arbeit Internationale Befunde berichten über die Abnahme der körperlichen Aktivität durch die häuslichen COVID-19-Isolationen. Eine Übertragung auf die deutsche Bevölkerung ist bei weltweit unterschiedlichen Beschränkungen nur bedingt möglich. Ziel der vorliegenden Arbeit war es, mögliche Veränderungen der körperlichen Aktivität in der deutschen Bevölkerung aufgrund der ersten Phase der deutschlandweiten Kontaktbeschränkungen im Frühjahr 2020 während der COVID-19-Pandemie zu ermitteln.

Methodik Die körperliche Aktivität wurde mithilfe des Global Physical Activity Questionnaire erfasst (April bis Mai 2020). 282 Fragebögen wurden Chi²-basiert ausgewertet (65,2 % weiblich; Alter 18 – 64 [33 ± 14] Jahre; BMI 16,9-42,8 [23,5 ± 3,9] kg / m²) und mit Daten einer deutschen Referenzpopulation (n = 2.248, 52 % Frauen) aus dem Jahr 2012 retrospektiv verglichen.

Ergebnisse Während der Kontaktbeschränkungen im Frühjahr 2020 waren adipöse Personen überproportional inaktiv (Chi²[4; 282] = 15,58; p = 0,004). Im Vergleich mit Daten aus 2012 erwiesen sich die Adipösen (BMI ≥ 30, n = 19) während der Kontaktbeschränkungen als noch weniger aktiv als ohne Kontaktbeschränkungen (Chi²[2, 317] = 7,51; p = 0,02), während weder für die Gesamtkohorten (Chi²[2, 2512] = 2,95; p = 0,23), noch für weitere BMI- oder Altersgruppen signifikante Unterschiede vorlagen (p > 0,05).

Schlussfolgerungen Die vorliegenden Daten legen trotz geringer Fallzahlen nahe, dass insbesondere übergewichtige Personen mit ohnehin vermehrten inaktivitätsassoziierten gesundheitlichen Risiken durch die COVID-19-Kontaktbeschränkungen häufiger als zuvor eine geringe körperliche Aktivität aufwiesen. Weiterführende Untersuchungen sollten mit größeren repräsentativ erhobenen Fallzahlen detailliert die tatsächlich durchgeführte körperliche Aktivität erfassen.
Perforation and post-polypectomy bleeding complicating colonoscopy in a population-based screening program
Authors: Paszat Lawrence F. , Sutradhar Rinku , Luo Jin , Rabeneck Linda , Tinmouth Jill
Published: April 2021

Background and study aims We aimed to estimate the rate of hospital admissions for perforation and for post-polypectomy bleeding, after outpatient colonoscopy following a first positive fecal occult blood test screen through the population-based ColonCancerCheck program in Ontario, Canada.

Patients and methods We identified all individuals aged 50 to 74 years with a first positive CCC gFOBT screening result from 2008 to 2017 who underwent outpatient colonoscopy ≤ 6 months later and who did not receive a diagnosis of CRC ≤ 24 months later. We identified inpatient hospital admissions for colonic perforation ≤ 7 days after and for post-polypectomy bleeding ≤ 14 days following colonoscopy.

Results Among 121,626 individuals who underwent colonoscopy, the rate of perforation was 0.6 per 1000 from 2008 to 2012 and 0.4 per 1000 from 2013 to 2017. The rate was elevated among those aged 70 to 74 years; those with comorbidities; when colonoscopy was performed by endoscopists other than gastroenterologists or endoscopists with low prior year volume; and when polypectomy was performed during colonoscopy. The rate of bleeding was 4.3 per 1000 and was elevated among those aged 70 to 74 years, those with comorbidity, and with complex polypectomy. Both outcomes were more common among those aged 70 to 74 years, those with a 5-year cumulative Charlson score ≥ 1, those with prior hospitalization for ischemic heart disease, and those with endoscopists whose prior year colonoscopy volume was in the three lower quartiles.

Conclusions Colonic perforation and post-polypectomy bleeding, among participants of population-based colorectal screening programs who test positive in the absence of colorectal cancer, are infrequent but serious complications, which increase with participant age and comorbidity, and with endoscopist characteristics.
Platelets and Matrix Metalloproteinases: A Bidirectional Interaction with Multiple Pathophysiologic Implications
Authors: Gresele P. , Falcinelli E. , Momi S. , Petito E. , Sebastiano M.
Published: April 2021

Platelets contain and release several matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), a highly conserved protein family with multiple functions in organism defense and repair. Platelet-released MMPs as well as MMPs generated by other cells within the cardiovascular system modulate platelet function in health and disease. In particular, a normal hemostatic platelet response to vessel wall injury may be transformed into pathological thrombus formation by platelet-released and/or by locally generated MMPs. However, it is becoming increasingly clear that platelets play a role not only in hemostasis but also in immune response, inflammation and allergy, atherosclerosis, and cancer development, and MMPs seem to contribute importantly to this role. A deeper understanding of these mechanisms may open the way to novel therapeutic approaches to the inhibition of their pathogenic effects and lead to significant advances in the treatment of cardiovascular, inflammatory, and neoplastic disorders.
Operieren in der Schwangerschaft – ein Tabu?
Authors: Necknig Ulrike Hendrika , Arnold Hannah , von Ostau Nicola
Published: April 2021

Mit Bekanntgabe einer Schwangerschaft ändert sich der Berufsalltag für betroffene Urologinnen erheblich. Aus Sorge vor rechtlichen Konsequenzen dürfen schwangere Mitarbeiter nach wie vor kaum operieren. Dabei schließt die Neuregelung des Mutterschutzgesetzes das Arbeiten und Operieren von schwangeren Urologinnen nicht grundsätzlich aus. Wieso leisten sich Kliniken dennoch einen solchen Missstand, der den Arbeitsalltag gefährdet und die Weiterbildung von schwangeren Urologinnen erschwert?
Recent Trends in Patient Registries for Health Services Research
Authors: Stausberg Jürgen , Harkener Sonja , Semler Sebastian C.
Published: April 2021

Background Patient registries are an established methodology in health services research. Since more than 150 years, registries collect information concerning groups of similar patients to answer research questions. Elaborated recommendations about an appropriate development and an efficient operation of registries are available. However, the scene changes rapidly.

Objectives The aim of the study is to describe current trends in registry research for health services research.

Methods Registries developed within a German funding scheme for model registries in health services research were analyzed. The observations were compared with recent recommendations of the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) on registries in the 21st century.

Results Analyzing six registries from the funding scheme revealed the following trends: recruiting healthy individuals, representing familial or other interpersonal relationships, recording of patient-reported experiences or outcomes, accepting participants as study sites, active informing of participants, integrating the registry with other data collections, and transferring data from the registry to electronic patient records. This list partly complies with the issues discussed by the AHRQ. The AHRQ structured its ideas in five chapters, increasing focus on the patient, engaging patients as partners, digital health and patient registries, direct-to-patient registry, and registry networks.

Conclusion For the near future, it can be said that the concept and the design of a registry should place the patient in the center. Registries will be increasingly linked together and interconnected with other data collections. New challenges arise regarding the management of data quality and the interpretation of results from less controlled settings. Here, further research related to the methodology of registries is needed.
Self-Report Hearing and Injury or Falls in Older Adults from the National Health and Information Survey
Authors: Powell Danielle S. , Morales Emmanuel E. Garcia , Pletnikova Sasha , Deal Jennifer A. , Reed Nicholas S.
Published: April 2021

This article aims to investigate the association between hearing and nonfatal injury or falls in a nationally representative sample of adults from the National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) utilizing over 20 years of participant surveys. We conducted a pooled cross-sectional analysis of participant surveys (aged 50 years and older) from 1997 to 2017. Self-report hearing difficulty, history of injury over the last 3 months, reported injury from fall over the last 3 months, and reported reason for fall (including due to balance/dizziness) were collected. Using logistic regression, we investigated the odds of injury, injury from fall, and fall due to balance/dizziness by self-report hearing status. In secondary analysis, we investigated the odds of each outcome by reported hearing aid use. Models were adjusted for demographics, year of study, vision difficulty, diabetes, employment, and cardiovascular disease. Reported moderate or greater difficulty hearing demonstrated a significantly greater odds of injury (odds ratio [OR]: 1.29; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.18, 1.42) or fall due to balance/dizziness (OR: 1.26; 95% CI: 1.00, 1.60) compared with reported excellent/good hearing. A dose–response association was seen across levels of reported difficulty hearing for all outcomes. In this nationally representative study of adults aged 50 years and older, greater reported difficulty hearing was significantly associated with increased odds of injury and suggests greater odds of falls or fall due to balance/dizziness compared with reported good hearing. Results suggest hearing loss should be considered as a possible risk factor for both injury and fall prevention studies and programming in older adults.
A semi-implicit discrepancy model of Reynolds stress in a higher-order tensor basis framework for Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes simulations
Authors: Zhang Zhen , Ye Shuran , Yin Bo , Song Xudong , Wang Yiwei , Huang Chenguang , Chen Yaosong
Published: April 2021

With the rapid development of artificial intelligence, machine learning algorithms are becoming more widely applied in the modification of turbulence models. In this paper, with the aim of improving the prediction accuracy of the Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) model, a semi-implicit treatment of Reynolds stress anisotropy discrepancy model is developed using a higher-order tensor basis. A deep neural network is constructed and trained based on this discrepancy model. The trained model parameters are embedded in a computational fluid dynamics solver to modify the original RANS model. Modification computations are performed for two cases: one interpolation and one extrapolation of different Reynolds numbers. For these two cases, the ability of the modified model to capture anisotropic features has been improved. Moreover, when compared with the mean velocity of large eddy simulations (LES), the root mean square error of the modified model is significantly lower than the original RANS model. Meanwhile, the modified model can better simulate flow field separation and fluctuation in the shear layer and has better prediction accuracy for the reattachment point and the mean velocity profile compared with the original RANS model. In addition, the modified model also improves the prediction accuracy for the mean pressure coefficient and mean friction coefficient of the underlying wall surface. The previously trained model is also directly performed for the modification computation of the two massive separation periodic hill flows. It is shown that the results simulated by the modified model and LES approach are more consistent in both trend and magnitude than the original RANS model and LES approach.
Integration of magnetic tweezers and traction force microscopy for the exploration of matrix rheology and keratinocyte mechanobiology: Model force- and displacement-controlled experiments
Authors: Moghram Waddah I. , Singh Pratibha , VandeLune Christian A. , Sander Edward A. , Selby John C.
Published: April 2021

In this work, we present a new experimental methodology that integrates magnetic tweezers (MT) with substrate deformation tracking microscopy (DTM) and traction force microscopy (TFM). Two types of MT-DTM/TFM experiments are described: force-control mode and displacement-control mode experiments. In model bead-on-gel experiments for each mode, an MT device is used to apply a controlled force or displacement waveform to a fibronectin-coated superparamagnetic bead attached to a fibrillar type I collagen gel containing a layer of covalently attached red-fluorescent microspheres. Serial fast time-lapse differential interference contrast and epifluorescence image acquisition steps are used to capture displacements of the bead and microspheres, respectively, in response to the applied force or displacement. Due to the large number of acquired images and the dynamic nature of the experiment, new quantitative approaches are implemented to adapt TFM for the analysis of the data, including (i) a temporospatial correction algorithm for improved tracking of microsphere displacements, (ii) a method for the objective determination of L2 regularization parameters for computing incremental traction stress solutions, and (iii) an empirical means for identifying time intervals within the data that can be approximated by elastostatic conditions. We also illustrate how force and energy balances in a force-control mode bead-on-gel experiment can be used to estimate the elastic modulus of a collagen substrate. Finally, in a proof-of-concept, bead-on-cell demonstration, measurements of incremental cell–matrix traction stresses are used to observe how a force applied to a focal contact on the apical surface of a keratinocyte is transmitted to the collagen substrate below the cell.
Cassytha filiformis (love-vine).
Authors: Parker Chris
Published: April 2021

A datasheet on Cassytha filiformis covering, as an economically important tree, its taxonomy, importance, silviculture, distribution, biology and ecology, uses, products and pests.
Cordyline fruticosa (ti plant).
Authors: Simpson Philip
Published: April 2021

A datasheet on Cordyline fruticosa covering, as an economically important tree, its taxonomy, importance, silviculture, distribution, biology and ecology, uses, products and pests.
Processing variables of direct-write, near-field electrospinning impact size and morphology of gelatin fibers
Authors: Davis Zachary G , Hussain Aasim F , Fisher Matthew B
Published: April 2021

Several biofabrication methods are being investigated to produce scaffolds that can replicate the structure of the extracellular matrix. Direct-write, near-field electrospinning of polymer solutions and electrowriting of polymer melts are methods which combine fine fiber formation with computer-guided control. Research with such systems has focused primarily on synthetic polymers. To better understand the behavior of biopolymers used for direct-writing, this project investigated changes in fiber morphology, size, and variability caused by varying gelatin and acetic acid concentration, as well as process parameters such as needle gauge and height, stage speed, and interfiber spacing. Increasing gelatin concentration at a constant acetic acid concentration improved fiber morphology from large, planar structures to small, linear fibers with a median of 2.3 µm. Further varying the acetic acid concentration at a constant gelatin concentration did not alter fiber morphology and diameter throughout the range tested. Varying needle gauge and height further improved the median fiber diameter to below 2 µm and variability of the first and third quartiles to within ±1 µm of the median. Additional adjustment of stage speed did not impact the fiber morphology or diameter. Repeatable interfiber spacings down to 250 µm were shown to be capable with the system. In summary, this study illustrates the optimization of processing parameters for direct-writing of gelatin to produce fibers on the scale of collagen fibers. This system is thus capable of replicating the fibrous structure of musculoskeletal tissues with biologically relevant materials which will provide a durable platform for the analysis of single cell-fiber interactions to help better understand the impact scaffold materials and dimensions have on cell behavior.
Mesoporous zirconia surfaces with anti-biofilm properties for dental implants
Authors: D’Agostino Agnese , Tana Francesca , Ettorre Alessandro , Pavarini Matteo , Serafini Andrea , Cochis Andrea , Scalia Alessandro Calogero , Rimondini Lia , De Giglio Elvira , Cometa Stefania , Chiesa Roberto , De Nardo Luigi
Published: April 2021

Cytocompatible bioactive surface treatments conferring antibacterial properties to osseointegrated dental implants are highly requested to prevent bacteria-related peri-implantitis. Here we focus on a newly designed family of mesoporous coatings based on zirconia (ZrO2) microstructure doped with gallium (Ga), exploiting its antibacterial and pro-osseo-integrative properties. The ZrO2 films were obtained via sol–gel synthesis route using Pluronic F127 as templating agent, while Ga doping was gained by introducing gallium nitrate hydrate. Chemical characterization by means of x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and glow discharge optical emission spectroscopy confirmed the effective incorporation of Ga. Then, coatings morphological and structural analysis were carried out by transmission electron microscopy and selected area electron diffraction unveiling an effective stabilization of both the mesoporous structure and the tetragonal ZrO2 phase. Specimens’ cytocompatibility was confirmed towards gingival fibroblast and osteoblasts progenitors cultivated directly onto the coatings showing comparable metabolic activity and morphology in respect to controls cultivated on polystyrene. The presence of Ga significantly reduced the metabolic activity of the adhered oral pathogens Porphyromonas gingivalis and Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans in comparison to untreated bulk zirconia (p < 0.05); on the opposite, Ga ions did not significantly reduce the metabolism of the oral commensal Streptococcus salivarius (p > 0.05) thus suggesting for a selective anti-pathogens activity. Finally, the coatings’ ability to preserve cells from bacterial infection was proved in a co-culture method where cells and bacteria were cultivated in the same environment: the presence of Ga determined a significant reduction of the bacteria viability while allowing at the same time for cells proliferation. In conclusion, the here developed coatings not only demonstrated to satisfy the requested antibacterial and cytocompatibility properties, but also being promising candidates for the improvement of implantable devices in the field of implant dentistry.
The impact of the UK’s COVID-19 lockdowns on energy demand and emissions
Authors: Mehlig Daniel , ApSimon Helen , Staffell Iain
Published: April 2021

Around the world, efforts to contain the COVID-19 pandemic have profoundly changed human activity, which may have improved air quality and reduced greenhouse gas emissions. We investigated the impact of the pandemic on energy demand and subsequent emissions from electricity and gas throughout 2020 in the UK. The daily pattern of electricity demand changed in both lockdowns, with weekday demand shifting to that of a typical pre-pandemic weekend. Energy demand in 2020 was modelled to reveal the impact of the weather and the pandemic. The first lockdown reduced demand by 15.6% for electricity and 12.0% for commercial gas, whereas the second lockdown produced reductions less than half. Domestic gas demand did not change during the first lockdown, but increased by 6.1% in the second, likely due to increased domestic heat demand. The changes in demand for gas resulted in little change to overall gas consumption emissions during the pandemic. For electricity, large emission reductions occurred during the two lockdowns: up to 22% for CO2, 47% for NO
x
, and 29% for PM2.5. Yet, the largest CO2 emission reduction for electricity in 2020 (25%) occurred before the pandemic, which happened during a warm and stormy spell with exceptional wind generation. These observations suggest that future similar changes in activity may result in little change for gas demand and emissions. For electricity, emission reductions through changes in energy demand are made possible by the generation mix. To enable further emission reductions in the future, the generation mix should continue to decarbonise. This will yield emission reductions in both times of lowered energy demand, but more importantly, during times of high renewable output.
Asymptotics of multicomponent linked polygons
Authors: Bonato A , Orlandini E , Whittington S G
Published: April 2021

We investigate the asymptotic behaviour of multi-component links where the edges can be distributed among the components in all possible ways. Specifically we consider a link of k polygons on the simple cubic lattice. We prove two results about the exponential behaviour and use a Monte Carlo method to investigate how the value of the critical exponent depends on link type. One ring grows at the expense of the others while the remaining components act as one or more roots on the growing component, each root contributing 1 to the value of the critical exponent. Which component grows depends on which maximizes the entropy of the system