bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
New Insight on Carbon Dioxide‐Mediated Hydrogen Production**
Authors: Morawski Antoni W. , Kusiak‐Nejman Ewelina , Pełech Iwona , Ćmielewska Katarzyna , Sibera Daniel , Staciwa Piotr , Wanag Agnieszka , Gano Marcin , Ekiert Ewa , Kapica‐Kozar Joanna , Witkowski Kordian , Narkiewicz Urszula
Published: April 2022

A new approach to hydrogen production from water is described. This simple method is based on carbon dioxide‐mediated water decomposition under UV radiation. The water contained dissolved sodium hydroxide, and the solution was saturated with gaseous carbon dioxide. During saturation, the pH decreased from about 11.5 to 7–8. The formed bicarbonate and carbonate ions acted as scavengers for hydroxyl radicals, preventing the recombination of hydroxyl and hydrogen radicals and prioritizing hydrogen gas formation. In the presented method, not yet reported in the literature, hydrogen production is combined with carbon dioxide. For the best system with alkaline water (0.2 m NaOH) saturated with CO2 under UV‐C, the hydrogen production amounted to 0.6 μmol h−1 during 24 h of radiation.
Local ecological knowledge and education drive farmers' contrasting perceptions of scavengers and their function in Nepal
Authors: Bhattacharjee Aishwarya , Sadadev Bipana Maiya , Karmacharya Dikpal Krishna , Baral Rishi , Pérez‐García Juan M. , Giménez Casalduero Andrés , Sánchez‐Zapata José A. , Anadón José D.
Published: April 2022

There is a long‐standing relationship between humans and vertebrate scavengers, as scavengers' contributions take on regulating (e.g. nutrient recycling and disease control), material (e.g. competition and livestock depredation) and non‐material (e.g. sky burials and ecotourism) roles in society. A social–ecological approach to studying biodiversity is increasingly needed, since the inclusion of local perceptions and knowledge has proven critical for effective conservation programs and ecosystem management.

We examine livestock farmers' perceptions and knowledge related to vertebrate scavengers in the highly diverse Chitwan‐Annapurna Landscape (Nepal) and assess the socio‐demographic traits that influence their perceived value of scavengers' ecosystem service provisioning (ESP) index, and function via scavenging services (SS).

Farmers' perceptions of functional importance (SS) showed species‐specific gradation, unlike ESP, where only avian scavengers were perceived as beneficial. Our results show that the perception of scavenging as a beneficial ecosystem service and its importance as a biological function are decoupled for facultative scavengers and coupled for obligate scavengers. Relatedly, we identify that affluence‐related traits drove positive perceptions of ESP, and local ecological knowledge‐based traits were linked to increased knowledge of function via SS.

Thus, this increased awareness of functional importance based on close contact with nature does not guarantee positive valuations of scavengers' contributions, whereas formal education did influence positive perceptions despite reduced awareness of function. Additionally, our findings suggest that existing environmental education measures are targeting the right groups, as these respondents coincide with lower favourability of scavengers' ecosystem services, but may be unable to overcome existing human–wildlife conflict.

For the first time in South Asia, we survey relevant community stakeholder's attitudes towards an entire scavenging guild and their associated benefits, detriments and functional importance. Our study illustrates the varied perceptions that exist for different scavenger species and closely examines a wide‐ranging set of socio‐demographic traits that show disparate influences on farmers' knowledge of ecological function and perceived ecosystem service benefits. Crucially, these findings can guide conservation and management priorities by considering the differences in public perception and awareness of scavenging, as well as the interpretation of nature's contribution to people.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Integrating computational pathology and proteomics to address tumor heterogeneity
Authors: Dent Anglin , Diamandis Phedias
Published: April 2022

Despite numerous advances in our molecular understanding of cancer biology, success in precision medicine trials has remained elusive for many malignancies. Emerging evidence now supports that these challenges are partly driven by proteogenomic discordances across molecular readouts and heterogeneous biology that is spatially distributed across tumors. Here we discuss these key limitations and how integrating the promise of mass‐spectrometry‐based global proteomics and computational imaging can help prioritize and direct regional sampling to help overcome these important challenges of biologic variation in cancer. © 2022 The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
To transplant, or not to transplant? That is the question. A patient advocate evaluation of autologous stem cell transplant in neuroblastoma
Authors: Bird Nicholas , Scobie Nicole , Palmer Antonia , Ludwinski Donna
Published: April 2022

High‐dose chemotherapy with autologous stem cell transplant (ASCT) has been a mainstay of high‐risk neuroblastoma treatment for several decades, demonstrating improvements in event‐free survival but with risks of serious or even life‐threatening acute toxicities, severe long‐term adverse health effects for survivors, and ongoing contention regarding overall survival benefit. The merits of ASCT in the modern era of immunotherapy are a source of debate among parents, advocates, and some physicians. Here we examine evidence for and against ASCT, explore parent attitudes and their turmoil over decision‐making, and strongly encourage international research consortia to develop a coordinated strategy to accelerate progress toward a future that avoids the routine use of ASCT in high‐risk neuroblastoma.
Healthcare utilization and the quality of life of children and adolescents with sickle cell disease
Authors: Moody Kendall L.
Published: April 2022

Background/objective

Youth diagnosed with sickle cell disease (SCD) are at increased risk of poor health‐related quality of life (HRQOL) due to the complexities associated with this disease. The literature notes that predictors such as pain and poor mental health are associated with increased healthcare access; however, the connection between healthcare use and their overall well‐being has been understudied. This study investigates whether healthcare utilization predicts the HRQOL in youth with SCD.

Design/methods

Patients completed the Pediatric Quality of Life (PedsQL) 3.0 SCD module, whereas the researcher conducted a retrospective chart review to gather patient characteristics such as emergency room (ER) and hospitalization occurrences over the past 12 months.

Results

The study consisted of 150 pediatric patients with SCD, ages 8‐17 years old, and their parents. Patients with ≥ 4 ER visits and hospitalizations reported worse HRQOL scores than their respective counterparts. Additionally, a higher frequency of ER visits (P = 0.05) and hospitalizations (P = 0.005) predicted lower HRQOL scores. Age (P = 0.04) also emerged as a significant predictor for both regression models, as increased healthcare access among older patients with SCD was associated with poorer HRQOL.

Conclusion

This study found that as youth with SCD require ER treatment and/or hospital admission, they are at increased risk for lower HRQOL, specifically as they get older. Findings suggest that attention should be paid to patients who require more frequent healthcare intervention. Improvement in outpatient care of pediatric patients with SCD may help to mitigate ER and inpatient use.
Categorization of COVID‐19 severity to determine mortality risk
Authors: Garry Elizabeth M. , Weckstein Andrew R. , Quinto Kenneth , Bradley Marie C. , Lasky Tamar , Chakravarty Aloka , Leonard Sandy , Vititoe Sarah E. , Easthausen Imaani J. , Rassen Jeremy A. , Gatto Nicolle M.
Published: April 2022

Purpose

Algorithms for classification of inpatient COVID‐19 severity are necessary for confounding control in studies using real‐world data.

Methods

Using Healthverity chargemaster and claims data, we selected patients hospitalized with COVID‐19 between April 2020 and February 2021, and classified them by severity at admission using an algorithm we developed based on respiratory support requirements (supplemental oxygen or non‐invasive ventilation, O2/NIV, invasive mechanical ventilation, IMV, or NEITHER). To evaluate the utility of the algorithm, patients were followed from admission until death, discharge, or a 28‐day maximum to report mortality risks and rates overall and by stratified by severity. Trends for heterogeneity in mortality risk and rate across severity classifications were evaluated using Cochran‐Armitage and Logrank trend tests, respectively.

Results

Among 118 117 patients, the algorithm categorized patients in increasing severity as NEITHER (36.7%), O2/NIV (54.3%), and IMV (9.0%). Associated mortality risk (and 95% CI) was 11.8% (11.6–12.0%) overall and increased with severity [3.4% (3.2–3.5%), 11.5% (11.3–11.8%), 47.3% (46.3–48.2%); p < 0.001]. Mortality rate per 1000 person‐days (and 95% CI) was 15.1 (14.9–15.4) overall and increased with severity [5.7 (5.4–6.0), 14.5 (14.2–14.9), 32.7 (31.8–33.6); p < 0.001].

Conclusion

As expected, we observed a positive association between the algorithm‐defined severity on admission and 28‐day mortality risk and rate. Although performance remains to be validated, this provides some assurance that this algorithm may be used for confounding control or stratification in treatment effect studies.
Toughening Effect of Oxirane‐Tetrahydrofuran Polyether (PEOT) on Blended and Cross‐Linked Nitrocellulose
Authors: Ren Zhi , Li Xiao‐Jiang , Yan Qi‐Long , Song Zhen‐Wei , Wang Li‐Gang , Xie Lin‐Sheng
Published: April 2022

A series of cross‐linked and physical blends of nitrocellulose (NC) with oxirane‐tetrahydrofuran copolyether (PEOT) in different proportions were prepared using toluene‐2,4‐diisocyanate (TDI) as a crosslinking agent. The critical mechanical properties were evaluated by a universal material tensile testing machine and the dynamic mechanical thermal analyses (DMA). The reaction mechanism of the crosslinking process as well as the interaction between NC and PEOT were studied through Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR). It was shown that as the mass fraction of PEOT increases, the Tg of the polymer blends gradually decreases, which can reach as low as −22.3 °C. It was further indicated that the low‐temperature mechanical properties of NC were significantly improved after blending. In comparison to the physical blending polymers, the miscibility between NC and PEOT was improved after cross‐linking reaction with TDI. When the mass fraction of NC was 50 %, the tensile strength of NC/PEOT physical blend and NC/PEOT/TDI cross‐linked blend reaches 20.82 MPa and 24.93 MPa, respectively. The corresponding elongation at break of these two systems was 96.58 % and 102.7 %, which means the toughening effect of PEOT on NC could be enhanced by crosslinking.
Combustion and Detonation Behaviour of Ammonium Perchlorate/Phosphorus(V) Nitride, P3N5
Authors: Koch Ernst‐Christian , Cudziło Stanisław , Trzciński Waldemar A. , Paszula Józef
Published: April 2022

The combustion and detonation properties of formulations containing ammonium perchlorate (AP) and phosphorus(V) nitride, P3N5, CAS−No. [12136‐91‐3] were investigated. A stable ambient pressure combustion regime is found for compositions containing between 20–65 wt.‐% P3N5consolidated to 53–77 % theoretical density. A balanced formulation (AP/P3N5: 68.38/31.62 wt.‐%) is insensitive to friction, about as sensitive to impact as pure AP and does not detonate at 77 % TMD when subjected to the shock from a Comp A4 (RDX/wax) booster charge. Annular charges containing pure P3N5 or AP/P3N5: 68.38/31.62 wt.‐% placed around a cylindrical Comp A4 (RDX/Wax) core do not contribute to the blast pressure of the charge.
Optimal ratio for data splitting
Authors: Joseph V. Roshan
Published: April 2022

It is common to split a dataset into training and testing sets before fitting a statistical or machine learning model. However, there is no clear guidance on how much data should be used for training and testing. In this article, we show that the optimal training/testing splitting ratio is , where is the number of parameters in a linear regression model that explains the data well.
Polymetallic Molybdenum‐Based Catalysts for Epimerization of Glucose to Mannose
Authors: Peng Fubin , Sun Ying , Hua Chao , Bai Fang , Ma Hong , Hu Xiangping , Liu Xin , Zhang Meiyun , Wang Xinhong
Published: April 2022

Molybdenum‐based catalysts have been widely studied in the epimerization of glucose to mannose. In this paper, several polymetallic molybdenum‐based catalysts were prepared and the high activity and selectivity of catalysts containing different divalent metal ions were investigated. Unlike most previous studies, there is no need to add acid to adjust pH in this reaction. It was found that the yield of CuAlMoO4 and CuAgAlMoO4 catalysts could be kept above 28.9 % at the epimerization of glucose reaction. Compared with soluble Cu3Mo2O9 catalysts, the prepared catalysts showed better stability and catalytic activity during the reaction process. It was found that the catalysts without copper had no catalytic effect or poor catalytic effect, and the valence state of copper ion changed before and after the reaction, indicating that copper ion played a very important role in the reaction.
Nitrogen and Oxygen Co‐doped Hierarchical Porous Carbon by One‐Step Pyrolysis of PEG/Melamine/MgO Bulks for High‐Performance Supercapacitors
Authors: Zhang Mingyang , Hu Renjie , Tan Shengnan , Song Rongjun
Published: April 2022

Simple and convenient protocols for fabricating heteroatom‐doped hierarchical porous carbon are highly imperative owing to their superior electrochemical performance. Here, nitrogen and oxygen co‐doped hierarchical porous carbon materials (NOPCs) are facilely prepared by the one‐step carbonization of PEG‐200/melamine/MgO bulks within ten minutes. The solid bulks enable the synthesis more conveniently, and make the NOPCs have a uniform structure and high electrochemical performance. The optimized products, NOPC‐900, has the largest specific surface area (the SBET of 1248 m2 g−1), abundant mesopore structures (average pore diameter of 9.40 nm), with thin carbon walls (3–10 graphene layers), and the effective heteroatom doping (the content of N atom is 2.67 at.%, and O atom is 12.49 at.%). As a result, The NOPC‐900 displays the specific capacitance of 324 F g−1 at 0.5 A g−1 and a low IR drop of 0.018 V at 50 A g−1. When assembling NOPC‐900 into a symmetric two‐electrode supercapacitor, it presents the cell capacitance of 54.18 F g−1 at 0.5 A g−1 and perseveres 84.6 % of initial capacitance at 10 A g−1. Meanwhile, the energy density of 19.12 Wh kg−1 is achieved at the power density of 425 W kg−1. The convenient preparation approach and excellent electrochemical performance render the NOPCs to be promising candidates for supercapacitor application.
Regulating Sodium Deposition through Gradiently‐Graphitized Framework for Dendrite‐Free Na Metal Anode
Authors: Sun Zhaowei , Ye Yadong , Zhu Jiawen , Zhou En , Xu Junjie , Liu Minghui , Kong Xianghua , Jin Song , Ji Hengxing
Published: April 2022

Na metal anode (NMA) is one of the most promising candidate materials for next‐generation low‐cost sodium metal batteries. However, the preferred deposition of Na metal at the anode/separator interface increases the risk of dendrite penetration of the separator, consequently, reduces safety and life of batteries with NMA. In this study, a Na deposition‐regulating strategy is shown by designing a gradiently graphitized 3D carbon fiber (CF) framework as host (grad‐CF), whereby Na is guided to deposit preferentially at the bottom of the anode, safely away from the separator. The obtained Na anode significantly reduces the probability of dendrite‐induced short circuits. The grad‐CF host enables NMA stable cycling at a high current density of 6 mA cm−2. When the Na@grad‐CF is applied as anode in full cells pared with Na3V2(PO4)3 (NVP) cathode, it exhibits a reversible capacity of 73 mA h g−1 after 500 cycles with a low decay rate of 0.13%.
Non‐Layered Te/In2S3 Tunneling Heterojunctions with Ultrahigh Photoresponsivity and Fast Photoresponse
Authors: Cao Xuanhao , Lei Zehong , Huang Baoquan , Wei Aixiang , Tao Lili , Yang Yibin , Zheng Zhaoqiang , Feng Xing , Li Jingbo , Zhao Yu
Published: April 2022

A photodetector based on 2D non‐layered materials can easily utilize the photogating effect to achieve considerable photogain, but at the cost of response speed. Here, a rationally designed tunneling heterojunction fabricated by vertical stacking of non‐layered In2S3 and Te flakes is studied systematically. The Te/In2S3 heterojunctions possess type‐II band alignment and can transfer to type‐I or type‐III depending on the electric field applied, allowing for tunable tunneling of the photoinduced carriers. The Te/In2S3 tunneling heterojunction exhibits a reverse rectification ratio exceeding 104, an ultralow forward current of 10−12 A, and a current on/off ratio over 105. A photodetector based on the heterojunctions shows an ultrahigh photoresponsivity of 146 A W−1 in the visible range. Furthermore, the devices exhibit a response time of 5 ms, which is two and four orders of magnitude faster than that of its constituent In2S3 and Te. The simultaneously improved photocurrent and response speed are attributed to the direct tunneling of the photoinduced carriers, as well as a combined mechanism of photoconductive and photogating effects. In addition, the photodetector exhibits a clear photovoltaic effect, which can work in a self‐powered mode.
Toward High‐Performance CO2‐to‐C2 Electroreduction via Linker Tuning on MOF‐Derived Catalysts
Authors: Chen Rongzhen , Cheng Ling , Liu Jinze , Wang Yating , Ge Wangxin , Xiao Chuqian , Jiang Hao , Li Yuhang , Li Chunzhong
Published: April 2022

Copper (Cu)‐based metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) and MOF‐derived catalysts are well studied for electroreduction of carbon dioxide (CO2); however, the effects of organic linkers for the selectivity of CO2 reduction are still unrevealed. Here, a series of Cu‐based MOF‐derived catalysts is investigated with different organic linkers appended, named X‐Cu‐BDC (BDC = 1,4‐benzenedicarboxylic acid, X = NH2, OH, H, F, and 2F). It is found that the linkers affect the faradaic efficiency (FE) for C2 products with an order of NH2 < OH < bare Cu‐BDC < F < 2F, thus tuning the FEC2:FEC1 ratios from 0.6 to 3.8. As a result, the highest C2 FE of ≈63% at a current density of 150 mA cm−2 on 2F‐Cu‐BDC derived catalyst is achieved. Using operando Raman measurements, it is revealed that the MOF derives to Cu2O during eCO2RR but organic linkers are stable. The fluorine group in organic linker can promote the H2O dissociation to *H species, further facilitating the hydrogenation of *CO to *CHO that helps CC coupling.
Excess fertility in residential‐scale urban agriculture soils in two western Oregon cities, USA
Authors: Nelson Mykl , Mhuireach Gwynne , Langellotto Gail A.
Published: April 2022

Small‐scale, residential food gardens are arguably the most common form of urban agriculture (UA) in the world. Despite their ubiquity, we know relatively little about the characteristics of UA soils, in general, and of residential food gardens specifically. We thus sampled soils from 27 residential‐scale vegetable gardens in two western Oregon cities to describe the physical, chemical, and biological characteristics of residential‐scale UA soils. We distinguished growing sites by bed type: in‐ground beds (IGs) and raised beds (RBs). We assessed the proportion of soils that fell within published recommendations for vegetable production for various soil parameters. We found residential‐scale UA soils frequently exceeded recommended ranges for many fertility parameters. We also found differences in carbon/nitrogen ratio, active carbon, and sulfur, with RBs significantly higher than IGs. The excesses likely are due to routine overapplication of compost, soil amendments, and fertilizers by growers across their intensively managed urban spaces. Such overapplication and excess is likely to be exaggerated in RBs compared with IGs.
Structural evolution of transition metal orthoborates (Zn3B2O6−Co3B2O6) with the Kotoite mineral structure: Synthesis, structure and properties
Authors: Sivakumar Gurusamy , Natarajan Srinivasan
Published: April 2022

We describe the synthesis, structure, optical, magnetic, and dielectric properties of Zn3B2O6 and Co3B2O6 systems with the detailed investigation of the structural transition along with the evolution of color. The compounds (Zn3‐xCox)B2O6 (0≤x≤3) were synthesised by high temperature solid‐state reactions. Rietveld refinements of the powder X‐ray diffraction (PXRD) patterns on (Zn2.25 Co0.75)B2O6 and (Co2.25Zn0.75)B2O6 samples indicate uniform distribution of Zn and Co in their respective crystallographic sites. UV‐Vis absorption spectra on the samples can be explained based on the electronic transitions of Co2+ ions in tetrahedral and octahedral coordination. NIR reflectivity studies on Zn3B2O6 was found to be better than that of TiO2, which suggests possible use of this compound for reflective coatings. The temperature dependent magnetic susceptibility studies indicate antiferromagnetic behaviour. The compounds exhibit low dielectric loss across the investigated frequencies.
Pflegeausgliederung – Herausforderungen und erste Analysen der Pflegebudgets
Authors: Slowik Michael , Hentschker Corinna
Published: April 2022

Mit der Ausgliederung der Pflegekosten aus dem Fallpauschalensystem sollte die Pflege am Bett gestärkt werden. Ziel des Beitrags ist es, die theoretischen und operativen Herausforderungen der Pflegeausgliederung der vergangenen zwei Jahre aufzuarbeiten. Dabei werden die Hindernisse der Abgrenzungsmechanismen von pflegebudgetrelevanten und nicht-pflegebudgetrelevanten Finanzierungstatbeständen dargestellt. Des Weiteren werden vereinbarte Pflegebudgets von 491 Krankenhäusern analysiert. Die Parallelfinanzierung der Krankenhausleistungen durch aG-DRGs und Selbstkostenfinanzierung impliziert eine Doppelfinanzierung, getriggert durch erhebliche Umsetzungs- und Abgrenzungsprobleme zwischen den Finanzierungsbereichen. Außerdem werden mit der Ausgliederung der Pflege Fehlanreize generiert, zukünftig Pflegekräfte für nicht-patientenrelevante Versorgung einzusetzen. In Zukunft sollten die finanziellen Mittel für bessere Pflege, bessere Arbeitsbedingungen und somit auch für mehr Patientensicherheit eingesetzt werden.
Auswirkungen der Covid-19-Pandemie auf die psychiatrische Versorgung – eine Sekundärdatenanalyse auf der Grundlage von AOK-Versichertendaten
Authors: Engels Alexander , Stein Janine , Konnopka Claudia , Eichler Uwe , Riedel-Heller Steffi G. , König Hans-Helmut
Published: April 2022

Im vorliegenden Beitrag wird die veränderte Inanspruchnahme des psychiatrischen Versorgungsangebots während der Covid-19-Pandemie im Jahr 2020 im Vergleich zum Vorjahr analysiert. Betrachtet werden die Entwicklung der Krankenhausfälle im Rahmen von voll- und teilstationären Versorgungsleistungen sowie die Auslastung in Hochschulambulanzen und psychiatrischen Institutsambulanzen während der Lockdown-Maßnahmen über verschiedene Diagnosegruppen hinweg. Ein zweiter Fokus des Beitrags liegt auf der Entwicklung der Verschreibungen von Psychopharmaka während der Pandemie. Die Analysen beruhen auf einer Stichprobe von Versicherten der AOK bzw. auf Daten des Wissenschaftlichen Instituts der AOK (WIdO) aus den Jahren 2019 und 2020. Wichtige Ergebnisse zeigen einen starken Rückgang der Fallzahlen in allen psychiatrischen Versorgungsbereichen, der insbesondere während des ersten Lockdowns im Frühjahr 2020 stärker ausgeprägt war. Im Hinblick auf die Verschreibung von Psychopharmaka fand sich keine absolute Zunahme, aber eine Häufung von Verordnungen im Frühjahr sowie Herbst 2020. Die vorgelegten Auswertungen zeigen die deutlichen Auswirkungen der Covid-19-Pandemie auf psychiatrische Versorgungsleistungen.
Die Vergütung von Krankenhäusern nach der Pandemie
Authors: Leber Wulf-Dietrich , Schwarz Ronald
Published: April 2022

Die kollektive Pandemieerfahrung wird absehbar einen Einfluss auf die Reformdebatte zur Vergütung von Krankenhausleistungen haben. Nicht zuletzt aufgrund des starken Fallzahlrückgangs steigt die Kritik an einer leistungsorientierten Vergütung und der Ruf nach einer Budgetgarantie wird lauter. Eine Analyse der gegenwärtigen Vergütungssystematik zeigt zunächst, dass die DRG-Fallpauschalen durch zahlreiche weitere Vergütungskomponenten ergänzt wurden. In der Pandemie kamen, insbesondere durch die Freihaltepauschalen, weitere Instrumente hinzu. Bedeutsam ist der Wiedereinstieg des Bundes in die Krankenhausfinanzierung. Ein zentraler Reformschritt in Richtung einer weniger fallzahlabhängigen Vergütung könnte die Vorhaltefinanzierung aus Bundesmitteln sein. In ihrer Systematik müsste sie sich klar von Freihaltepauschalen und klassischer Investitionsfinanzierung unterscheiden. Andere Reformoptionen (u. a. Qualitätsorientierung, Regionalbudgets) werden dargestellt, aber eher skeptisch beurteilt. Bedeutsamer als eine Reform der Vergütungsstruktur dürfte die Reform der Versorgungsstruktur sein.
Aβ/tau oligomer interplay at human synapses supports shifting therapeutic targets for Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Marcatti Michela , Fracassi Anna , Montalbano Mauro , Natarajan Chandramouli , Krishnan Balaji , Kayed Rakez , Taglialatela Giulio
Published: April 2022

Background

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is characterized by progressive cognitive decline due to accumulating synaptic insults by toxic oligomers of amyloid beta (AβO) and tau (TauO). There is growing consensus that preventing these oligomers from interacting with synapses might be an effective approach to treat AD. However, recent clinical trial failures suggest low effectiveness of targeting Aβ in late-stage AD. Researchers have redirected their attention toward TauO as the levels of this species increase later in disease pathogenesis. Here we show that AβO and TauO differentially target synapses and affect each other's binding dynamics.

Methods

Binding of labeled, pre-formed Aβ and tau oligomers onto synaptosomes isolated from the hippocampus and frontal cortex of mouse andpostmortemcognitively intact elderly human brains was evaluated using flow-cytometry and western blot analyses. Binding of labeled, pre-formed Aβ and tau oligomers onto mouse primary neurons was assessed using immunofluorescence assay. The synaptic dysfunction was measured by fluorescence analysis of single-synapse long-term potentiation (FASS-LTP) assay.

Results

We demonstrated that higher TauO concentrations effectively outcompete AβO and become the prevailing synaptic-associated species. Conversely, high concentrations of AβO facilitate synaptic TauO recruitment. Immunofluorescence analyses of mouse primary cortical neurons confirmed differential synaptic binding dynamics of AβO and TauO. Moreover, in vivo experiments using old 3xTgAD mice ICV injected with either AβO or TauO fully supported these findings. Consistent with these observations, FASS-LTP analyses demonstrated that TauO-induced suppression of chemical LTP was exacerbated by AβO. Finally, predigestion with proteinase K abolished the ability of TauO to compete off AβO without affecting the ability of high AβO levels to increase synaptic TauO recruitment. Thus, unlike AβO, TauO effects on synaptosomes are hampered by the absence of protein substrate in the membrane.

Conclusions

These results introduce the concept that TauO become the main synaptotoxic species at late AD, thus supporting the hypothesis that TauO may be the most effective therapeutic target for clinically manifest AD.
Cautious stochastic choice, optimal stopping and deliberate randomization
Authors: Henderson Vicky , Hobson David , Zeng Matthew
Published: April 2022

We study cautious stochastic choice (CSC) agents facing optimal timing decisions in a dynamic setting. In an expected utility setting, the optimal strategy is always a threshold strategy—to stop/sell the first time the price process exits an interval. In contrast, we show that in the CSC setting, where the agent has a family of utility functions and is concerned with the worst case certainty equivalent, the optimal strategy may be of non-threshold form and may involve randomization. We provide some carefully constructed examples, including one where we can solve explicitly for the optimal stopping rule and show it is a non-trivial mixture of threshold strategies. Our model is consistent with recent experimental evidence in dynamic setups whereby individuals do not play cut-off or threshold strategies.
Percutaneous implantation of peripherally inserted totally implantable venous access systems in the forearm in adolescent patients
Authors: Augustin Anne Marie , Kertels Olivia , Wiegering Verena , Thurner Annette , Kickuth Ralph
Published: April 2022

Background

Children with different underlying malignant diseases require long-term central venous access. As for port systems in a pectoral position, peripherally implanted port systems in the forearm revealed high levels of technical and clinical success in adult cohorts.

Objective

To investigate the technical and clinical outcomes of percutaneous central venous port implantation in the forearm in adolescents.

Materials and methods

Between April 2010 and August 2020, 32 children ages 9 to 17 years with underlying malignancy received 35 totally implantable venous access ports (TIVAPs) in the forearm. All venous port systems were peripherally inserted under ultrasound guidance. Correct catheter placement was controlled by fluoroscopy. As primary endpoints, the technical success, rate of complications and catheter maintenance were analyzed. Secondary endpoints were the side of implantation, vein of catheter access, laboratory results on the day of the procedure, procedural radiation exposure, amount of contrast agent and reasons for port device removal.

Results

Percutaneous TIVAP placement under sonographic guidance was technically successful in 34 of 35 procedures (97.1%). Procedure-related complications did not occur. During the follow-up, 13,684 catheter days were analyzed, revealing 11 complications (0.8 per 1,000 catheter-duration days), Of these 11 complications, 7 were major and 10 occurred late. In seven cases, the port device had to be removed; removal-related complications did not occur.

Conclusion

Peripheral TIVAP placement in the forearms of children is a feasible, effective and safe technique with good midterm outcome. As results are comparable with standard access routes, this technique may be offered as an alternative when intermittent venous access is required.
The Supera Interwoven Nitinol Stent as a Flow Diverting Device in Popliteal Aneurysms
Authors: van de Velde L. , Groot Jebbink E. , Zambrano B. A. , Versluis M. , Tessarek J. , Reijnen M. M. P. J.
Published: April 2022

Purpose

The feasibility of using a compressed interwoven Supera stent as a flow diverting device for popliteal aneurysms was recently demonstrated in patients. It is unclear, however, what the optimal flow diverting strategy is, because of the fusiform shape of popliteal aneurysms and their exposure to triphasic flow. To assess this flow diverting strategy for popliteal aneurysms, flow profiles and thrombus formation likelihood were investigated in popliteal aneurysm models.

Materials and Methods

Six popliteal aneurysm models were created and integrated into a pulsatile flow set-up. These models covered a bent and a straight anatomy in three configurations: control, single-lined and dual-lined Supera stents. Two-dimensional flow velocities were visualized by laser particle image velocimetry. In addition, the efficacy of the stent configurations for promoting aneurysm thrombosis was assessed by simulations of residence time and platelet activation.

Results

On average for the two anatomies, the Supera stent led to a twofold reduction of velocities in the aneurysm for single-lined stents, and a fourfold reduction for dual-lined stents. Forward flow was optimally diverted, whereas backward flow was generally deflected into the aneurysm. The dual-lined configuration led to residence times of 15–20 s, compared to 5–15 s for the single stent configurations. Platelet activation potential was not increased by the flow diverting stents.

Conclusion

A compressed Supera stent was successfully able to divert flow in a popliteal aneurysm phantom. A dual-lined configuration demonstrated superior hemodynamic characteristics compared to its single-lined counterpart.
Status der elektronischen Dokumentation in ophthalmologischen Hauptabteilungen in Deutschland
Authors: Fuhrmann L. , Böhringer D. , Gass P. , Dicke C. , Eter N. , Schargus M.
Published: April 2022

Hintergrund

Die elektronische Dokumentation in Kliniken der Augenheilkunde ist eine Voraussetzung für deren Anschluss an digitale Versorgungsnetzwerke und effiziente Registerdatenbanken.

Ziel der Arbeit

Die Erfassung von Ausmaß und Ausführung elektronischer Dokumentation in der stationären ophthalmologischen Versorgung in Deutschland.

Material und Methoden

Ein strukturierter Fragebogen wurde im Juni 2021 an alle deutschen Universitätsaugenkliniken und Hauptabteilungen für Augenheilkunde verschickt. Enthalten waren 13 teils offene, teils geschlossene Fragen zu Dokumentationsprozessen, Struktur der Datenspeicherung und Erfassung der abrechnungsrelevanten Kodierung.

Ergebnisse

Es antworteten 44 (44 %) von 100 Kliniken. Die Patientendokumentation erfolgte in 15 (34 %) Kliniken rein elektronisch, in den übrigen 29 (66 %) kombiniert elektronisch und papierbasiert; 16 unterschiedliche Konstellationen der Dokumentationsprogramme wurden angegeben. Am häufigsten wurden die Programme Orbis (27 %) (Dedalus HealthCare, Bonn, Deutschland), FIDUS (18 %) (Arztservice Wente, Darmstadt, Deutschland) und SAP/i.s.h.med (16 %) (SAP Deutschland, Walldorf, Deutschland; Cerner Deutschland, Berlin, Deutschland) genutzt. Drei Kliniken gaben die primäre Nutzung von Papierakten an. Eine strukturierte Befunddokumentation erfolgte in 61 % der befragten Abteilungen, in 23 % erfolgte diese teilstrukturiert und in 15 % nicht-strukturiert. Elektronische Dokumente wurden in 20 % der Kliniken im DICOM-Format (Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine) und in 34 % der Kliniken als PDF-Dateien (Portable Document Format) gespeichert, 23 % speicherten eingescannte Ausdrucke.

Diskussion

Die Dokumentationsprozesse in den deutschen Augenkliniken sind heterogen, wobei papierbasierte Dokumentation weiterhin eine wichtige Rolle spielt. Dies und die hohe Anzahl verschiedener Softwarelösungen stellen eine Herausforderung für den standortübergreifenden Datenaustausch dar.
Avoiding and Extending Partial Edge Colorings of Hypercubes
Authors: Casselgren Carl Johan , Johansson Per , Markström Klas
Published: April 2022

We consider the problem of extending and avoiding partial edge colorings of hypercubes; that is, given a partial edge coloring $$\varphi $$
φ
of the d-dimensional hypercube $$Q_d$$

Q
d

, we are interested in whether there is a proper d-edge coloring of $$Q_d$$

Q
d

that agrees with the coloring $$\varphi $$
φ
on every edge that is colored under $$\varphi $$
φ
; or, similarly, if there is a proper d-edge coloring that disagrees with $$\varphi $$
φ
on every edge that is colored under $$\varphi $$
φ
. In particular, we prove that for any $$d\ge 1$$

d
≥
1

, if $$\varphi $$
φ
is a partial d-edge coloring of $$Q_d$$

Q
d

, then $$\varphi $$
φ
is avoidable if every color appears on at most d/8 edges and the coloring satisfies a relatively mild structural condition, or $$\varphi $$
φ
is proper and every color appears on at most $$d-2$$

d
-
2

edges. We also show that $$\varphi $$
φ
is avoidable if d is divisible by 3 and every color class of $$\varphi $$
φ
is an induced matching. Moreover, for all $$1 \le k \le d$$

1
≤
k
≤
d

, we characterize for which configurations consisting of a partial coloring $$\varphi $$
φ
of $$d-k$$

d
-
k

edges and a partial coloring $$\psi $$
ψ
of k edges, there is an extension of $$\varphi $$
φ
that avoids $$\psi $$
ψ
.
New strategies for energy supply of cardiac implantable devices
Authors: Moerke Caroline , Wolff Anne , Ince Hüseyin , Ortak Jasmin , Öner Alper
Published: April 2022

Background

Heart disease and atrial fibrillation are the leading causes of death worldwide. Patient morbidity and mortality associated with cardiovascular disease can be reduced by more accurate and continuous diagnostic and therapeutic tools provided by cardiovascular implantable electronic devices (CIEDs).

Objectives

Long-term operation of CIEDs continues to be a challenge due to limited battery life and the associated risk of device failure. To overcome this issue, new approaches for autonomous battery supply are being investigated.

Results

Here, the state of the art in CIED power supply is presented and an overview of current strategies for autonomous power supply in the cardiovascular field is given, using the body as a sustainable energy source. Finally, future challenges and potentials as well as advanced features for CIEDs are discussed.

Conclusion

CIEDs need to fulfil more requirements for diagnostic and telemetric functions, which leads to higher energy requirements. Ongoing miniaturization and improved sensor technologies will help in the development of new devices.
Galectin-8 and -9 as prognostic factors for cervical cancer
Authors: Beyer Susanne , Wehrmann Maya , Meister Sarah , Kolben Theresa M. , Trillsch Fabian , Burges Alexander , Czogalla Bastian , Schmoeckel Elisa , Mahner Sven , Jeschke Udo , Kolben Thomas
Published: April 2022

Purpose

Galectins are carbohydrate-binding proteins with multiple effects on cell biology. Research shows that they play an important role in tumor development and progression. Therefore, in this study, the presence of Galectin-8 and -9 (Gal), both already known as prognostic factors in other tumor entities, were investigated in cervical cancer. Our aim was to examine the association of Gal-8 and -9 expression with histopathological markers and survival of the patients.

Methods

Gal-8 and -9 expression was investigated in 250 cervical cancer samples by immunohistochemistry. The staining was evaluated using the immunoreactive score (IRS). The results were correlated to clinical and pathological data. The correlation of Gal-8 and -9 expression with overall and relapse-free survival was analyzed.

Results

Expression of Gal-8 was associated with negative N-status and lower FIGO status. Detection of Gal-9 was connected to negative N-status and lower grading regarding all specimens. A correlation of Gal-9 with lower FIGO status was detected for squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) only. Expression of Gal-8 was associated with relapse-free survival of SCC patients in a positive manner. Gal-9 expression was associated with better overall survival.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that expression of both galectins is inversely associated with tumor stage and progression. Gal-8 expression is associated with relapse-free survival of patients with SCC, while presence of Gal-9 in cervical cancer is associated with a better prognosis in regard of overall survival.
The effect of pelvic floor muscle training on pelvic floor function and sexuality postpartum. A randomized study including 300 primiparous
Authors: Schütze Sabine , Heinloth Marlen , Uhde Miriam , Schütze Juliane , Hüner Beate , Janni Wolfgang , Deniz Miriam
Published: April 2022

Purpose

Although pregnancy and childbirth are physiological processes they may be associated with pelvic floor disorders. The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of pelvic floor muscle training on postpartum pelvic floor and sexual function of primiparous.

Methods

This is a randomized prospective study including 300 primiparous women. Due to the dropout 200 women were analyzed. Inclusion criteria were the delivery of the first, mature baby, the ability to speak and understand German. The participants were evaluated by clinical examinations and questionnaires after 6 and 12 months postpartum. After 6 months, the women were randomized in two groups. Compared to the control group the intervention groups participated in 45-min pelvic floor muscle training and pelvic floor perception once a week over 6 weeks.

Results

The results of the questionnaires showed no significant differences between the groups after 12 months. A significant stronger pelvic floor muscle strength was found for the intervention group after 12 months. The improvement of the pelvic floor and sexual function over the time showed a significant improvement in both groups.

Conclusion

Supervised pelvic floor muscle training did not improve both the pelvic floor and the female sexual function in comparison to the control group. After 12 months, the pelvic floor and sexual function improved significant in all women.

Trial registration

German Clinical Trials Register (DRKS00024725), retrospectively registrated.
In-vivo dose determination in a human after radon exposure: proof of principle
Authors: Papenfuß Franziska , Maier Andreas , Fournier Claudia , Kraft Gerhard , Friedrich Thomas
Published: April 2022

Radon-222 is pervasive in our environment and the second leading cause of lung cancer induction after smoking while it is simultaneously used to mediate anti-inflammatory effects. During exposure, radon gas distributes inhomogeneously in the body, making a spatially resolved dose quantification necessary to link physical exposure conditions with accompanying risks and beneficial effects. Current dose predictions rely on biokinetic models based on scarce input data from animal experiments and indirect exhalation measurements of a limited number of humans, which shows the need for further experimental verification. We present direct measurements of radon decay in the abdomen and thorax after inhalation as proof of principle in one patient. At both sites, most of the incorporated radon is removed within ~ 3 h, whereas a smaller fraction is retained longer and accounts for most of the deposited energy. The obtained absorbed dose values were $$1.5 \pm 0.3$$

1.5
±
0.3

 µGy (abdomen, radon gas) and $$1.1 \pm 0.4$$

1.1
±
0.4

 µGy (thorax, radon and progeny) for a one-hour reference exposure at a radon activity concentration of 55 kBq m−3. The accumulation of long-retained radon in the abdomen leads to higher dose values at that site than in the thorax. Contrasting prior work, our measurements are performed directly at specific body sites, i.e. thorax and abdomen, which allows for direct spatial distinction of radon kinetics in the body. They show more incorporated and retained radon than current approaches predict, suggesting higher doses. Although obtained only from one person, our data may thus represent a challenge for the barely experimentally benchmarked biokinetic dose assessment model.
A guide to classify tattoo motives in Mexico as a tool to identify unknown bodies
Authors: Holz F. , Carrillo-Núñez G. G. , Martinez Peña E. G. , Rivera Martinez A. A. , de la Peña Jiménez I. G. , Bonilla Virgen Ramon , Verhoff M. A. , Birngruber Christoph G.
Published: April 2022

Justification

In Mexico, the number of unidentified bodies has been steadily rising for years. By now, more than 50,000 bodies are considered unidentified. Forensic laboratories that could perform comparative molecular genetic investigation are often overburdened and examinations can take months. Therefore, pragmatic approaches that can help to identify more unknown bodies must be sought. The increased use of distinctive physical features might be one, and the high rate of tattooed people in Mexico points towards a great potential of tattoos as a tool for identification. The prerequisite for a comparison of antemortem (missing persons) and postmortem (unknown bodies) data is an objective description of the particularities, e.g., of the tattoos. The aim of this study was to establish an objective classification for tattoo motives, taking into consideration local preferences.

Methods

In the database of the medicolegal services of the Instituto Jaliscience de Ciencias Forenses (IJCF) in Guadalajara, postmortem data of 1000 tattooed bodies from 2019 were evaluated. According to sex and age, the tattooed body localization and the tattoo motives were categorized.

Results

The 1000 tattooed deceased showed tattoos on 2342 body localizations. The motives were grouped and linked to the following 11 keywords (with decreasing frequency): letters/numbers, human, symbol (other), plant, symbol (religious), animal, object, fantasy/demon/comic, tribal/ornament/geometry, other, unrecognizable.

Conclusion

Using the proposed classification, tattoo motives can be described objectively and classified in a practical way. If used for antemortem (missing persons) and postmortem (unknown bodies) documentation, motives can be searched and compared efficiently—helping to identify unknown bodies.
3D-anatomy and systematics of cocculinid-like limpets (Gastropoda: Cocculiniformia): more data, some corrections, but still an enigma
Authors: Haszprunar Gerhard , Wendler Sabrina Y. C. , Jöst Anna B. , Ruthensteiner Bernhard , Heß Martin
Published: April 2022

New material and new methodologies substantially widen the anatomical knowledge on cocculinid limpets. We first provide 3D-anatomies of Fedikovella caymanensis and Teuthirostria cancellata based on serial sections. Both species differ in several major points (mainly the gill-type and several features of the alimentary tract) from typical cocculinids, accordingly they are classified in a new clade, Teuthirostriidae fam. nov. Specimens studied by McLean and Harasewych (LA County Mus Contrib Sci 453:1–33, 1995) under “Fedikovella beanii” probably represent another species new to science. Additional investigations of original (type) section series of Cocculina laevis Thiele, 1904 (type species of Paracocculina Haszprunar, 1987) and of Cocculina radiata Thiele, 1904 (type species of Coccocrater Haszprunar, 1987) imply some nomenclatorial revisions: Cocculina cervae Fleming, 1948 is designated as type species of Pedococculina gen. nov. Anatomical characters confirm the subsequent placement of Cocculina viminensis Rocchini, 1990 into Coccopigya Marshall, 1986, whereas the original generic status of the whale-fall inhabitant Cocculina craigsmithi McLean, 1992 is confirmed despite the unusual habitat. The latter species probably has symbiotic bacteria in the midgut gland; if so this might be due to the environmental and feeding conditions at whale cadavers or hydrothermal vents. Contrary to Lepetelloidea, the Cocculiniformia cannot be included in Vetigastropoda. Recent molecular data support a sistergroup relationship of Cocculiniformia with Neomphalida, and we add the phenotypic perspective on this so-called “Neomphaliones”-hypothesis. In particular, more phylogenomic data are needed to specify the position of Cocculinida among the rhipidoglossate Gastropoda.