bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ameliorative effects of humic acid and L‐tryptophan on enzyme activity, mineral content, biochemical properties, and plant growth of spinach cultivated in saline conditions
Authors: Turfan Nezahat , Kibar Beyhan , Davletova Nazakat , Kibar Hakan
Published: August 2024

Salinity poses a significant abiotic stress that limits plant productivity, thereby posing a serious threat to agricultural sustainability and worldwide food security. Techniques that can overcome this problem are needed. Recent focus has been placed on employing organic substances like humic acid (HA) and amino acids, including L‐tryptophan (L‐TRP), to mitigate the negative effects of salt stress on cultivated plants. Accordingly, in this research, the impact of foliar applications of HA and L‐TRP, both separately and combined, on the growth parameters and biochemical properties of spinach subjected to salt stress was investigated. In the present study, eight treatments (1. control, 2. salt (NaCl), 3. HA, 4. L‐TRP, 5. HA + NaCl, 6. L‐TRP + NaCl, 7. HA + L‐TRP, and 8. HA + L‐TRP + NaCl) were investigated. The study showed that salt stress markedly reduced several growth properties in spinach, including plant height, number of leaves, leaf dimensions, and both fresh and dry weight. Additionally, it significantly lowered contents of chlorophyll (a, b, and total), carotenoid, polyphenol, lutein, anthocyanin, polyphenol oxidase, glycine betaine, relative water content, and the antioxidant enzyme activities (ascorbate peroxidase, catalase, peroxidase, and superoxide dismutase). On the other hand, significant increases were observed in sodium, chlorine, potassium, sulfur, zinc, nickel, proline, malondialdehyde, and hydrogen peroxide levels of spinach with salinity. Individual and combined applications of HA and L‐TRP positively influenced plant growth, relative water content, activities of antioxidant enzyme, chlorophyll, and mineral contents of spinach under both normal and saline conditions. In conclusion, the combined use of HA and L‐TRP under salt stress conditions is promising in mitigating the negative impacts of salinity and can be suggested as an effective alternative approach for cultivating spinach in saline environments.
Early circulating tumor DNA changes predict outcomes in head and neck cancer patients under re‐radiotherapy
Authors: Janke Florian , Stritzke Florian , Dvornikovich Katharina , Franke Henrik , Angeles Arlou Kristina , Riediger Anja Lisa , Ogrodnik Simon , Gerhardt Sabrina , Regnery Sebastian , Schröter Philipp , Bauer Lukas , Weusthof Katharina , Görtz Magdalena , Harrabi Semi , Herfarth Klaus , Neelsen Christian , Paech Daniel , Schlemmer Heinz‐Peter , Abdollahi Amir , Adeberg Sebastian , Debus Jürgen , Sültmann Holger , Held Thomas
Published: August 2024

Local recurrence after radiotherapy is common in locally advanced head and neck cancer (HNC) patients. Re‐irradiation can improve local disease control, but disease progression remains frequent. Hence, predictive biomarkers are needed to adapt treatment intensity to the patient's individual risk. We quantified circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) in sequential plasma samples and correlated ctDNA levels with disease outcome. Ninety four longitudinal plasma samples from 16 locally advanced HNC patients and 57 healthy donors were collected at re‐radiotherapy baseline, after 5 and 10 radiation fractions, at irradiation end, and at routine follow‐up visits. Plasma DNA was subjected to low coverage whole genome sequencing for copy number variation (CNV) profiling to quantify ctDNA burden. CNV‐based ctDNA burden was detected in 8/16 patients and 25/94 plasma samples. Ten additional ctDNA‐positive samples were identified by tracking patient‐specific CNVs found in earlier sequential plasma samples. ctDNA‐positivity after 5 and 10 radiation fractions (both: log‐rank, p = .050) as well as at the end of irradiation correlated with short progression‐free survival (log‐rank, p = .006). Moreover, a pronounced decrease of ctDNA toward re‐radiotherapy termination was associated with worse treatment outcome (log‐rank, p = .005). Dynamic ctDNA tracking in serial plasma beyond re‐radiotherapy reflected treatment response and imminent disease progression. In five patients, molecular progression was detected prior to tumor progression based on clinical imaging. Our findings emphasize that quantifying ctDNA during re‐radiotherapy may contribute to disease monitoring and personalization of adjuvant treatment, follow‐up intervals, and dose prescription.
Successful endourological treatment for a rare case of atazanavir‐induced urinary stones
Authors: Nakamura Takehiro , Takazawa Ryoji , Umino Yosuke
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Atazanavir, an anti‐HIV drug, induces urinary stone formation. We herein report a case of atazanavir‐induced bilateral ureteral stones treated with endourological procedures.

Case presentation

A 47‐year‐old male patient on atazanavir was admitted with right flank pain. The patient's serum creatinine level was 3.60 mg/dL. Plain computed tomography showed bilateral hydronephrosis. The left upper ureter was obstructed by a 13 × 12 × 9‐mm mass, which had very low CT attenuation values. The lower part of the right ureter was obstructed, but no mass was observed. Given his medical history, we suspected bilateral ureteral obstruction caused by drug‐induced stones. A ureteral stent was successfully inserted on the right side, but not on the left side. Thereafter, a bilateral ureteroscopic lithotripsy was performed. Infrared spectrophotometry revealed that the stone component was atazanavir.

Conclusion

Understanding the characteristics of these rare drug‐induced stones will aid in the proper early diagnosis and treatment.
Beitrag zur Kenntnis der fossilen und rezenten europäischen Buchen
Authors: Svoboda A. M. , Pacltová B.
Published: August 2024

Bei der Betrachtung fossiler und rezenter europäischer Buchen ergeben sich komplizierte Probleme. Bis heute wurden sie meistens unabhängig von einander behandelt. Dieser Beitrag gibt einen Überblick zur diesbezüglichen Literatur, geordnet nach den einzelnen Arten und den morphologischen Merkmalen, nach denen die Taxa unterschieden werden. Im Mittelpunkt stchen Fagus sylvatica L. und F. orientalis Lipsky. Nur die wichtigsten Veröffentlichungen werden aufgezählt, die Zahl aller Publikationen ist sehr hoch.

Es wird die bekannte und zugängliche Literatur herangezogen, die sich auf Merkmale z. B. der Blüten, des Pollens, der Cupulae bezieht. Kritische oder zusammenfassende Arbeiten sind sehr selten. Auf der anderen Seite findet man recht häufig biometrische Arbeiten über Blattuntersuchungen an rezenten Buchen, deren Ergebnisse zur Auswertung fossiler Buchenabdrucke angewendet werden können. Die Vergleichseinheit — gewonnen auf Grund der Methode von Jentys‐Szaferowa — stellt das Beispiel der Blätter von Fagus sylvatica dar. Die Werte allgemeiner Merkmale crmöglichen die Konstruktion eines Diagramms von der Größe und Gestalt, der Blätter. Für den Vergleich mit fossilen Blättern zog Němejc (1930–31) 19 Proben aus Nižný Skalník nahe Rimavská Sobota (sarmatische Tuffs aus dem oberen Miozän) und 23 Proben von Drevenik nahe Spišské Podhradie (pliozäne Travertine) heran. In dem Diagramm wird die Ähnlichkeit der Blätter der rezenten F. orientalis mit fossilen Blättern deutlich. Die anderen Blätter zeigen entweder Übergangsformen oder nähern sich der F. sylvatica. Heutzutage werden folgende Merkmale als Kriterien zur Unterscheidung beider Taxa verwendet; Zahl der lateralen Nerven, Blatt‐Form (Lage der breitesten Stelle der Blattspreite) und Vorhandensein ancestraler Blättchen an den Cupulae. Die Messung der gesamten Struktur der Blattspreite ermöglicht die Konstruktion eines idealen Durchsehnittsblattes und die detaillierte Untersuchung der Variabilität der Blatt‐Form. Die Unterschiede zwischen den Werten der Länge und der Winkel der lateralen Nerven sind signifikant.

Dieser Beitrag ist ein erster Versuch, eine allgemeine Methode zu erarbeiten, die den Vergleich von Ergebnissen zuläßt, die unabhängig von Bearbeitern in verschiedenen Ländern erzielt werden.
Unusual stomatal feature in Leucomphalos capparideus Benth. ex Planch. (Papilionoideae)
Authors: Karatela V. Y. , Gill L. S.
Published: August 2024

The dominant anomocytic (99.5%) type of stomata with agenous ontogeny and the frequent occurrence of contiguous stomata in Leucomphalos cappurideus (Papilionoideae) have been reported for the first.
Multifunctional hydrogels for the healing of oral ulcers
Authors: Zhang Wenjie , Zhao Jie , Zou Xinxin , Yu Jingrong , Liao Jinlong , Huang Fengjie
Published: August 2024

Oral ulcers are one of the most common oral diseases in clinical practice. Its etiology is complex and varied. Due to the dynamic nature of the oral environment, the wound surface is painful due to contact and wear, which seriously affects the quality of life of patients. Oral ulcers are often treated with topical drug therapy. Studies have shown that functional hydrogels play a positive role in promoting wound healing, showing unique advantages in wound dressings. In this paper, the causes and healing characteristics of oral ulcers are discussed in depth, and then the common treatment methods for oral ulcers are summarized and compared. Finally, the potential of functional hydrogels in the treatment of oral ulcers is discussed and projected through a review of the literature in recent years.
Zein: Potential biopolymer in inflammatory bowel diseases
Authors: Desai Nimeet , Nayi Smit , Khunt Dignesh , Kapoor Devesh U. , Salave Sagar , Prajapati Bhupendra , Vora Chintan , Malviya Rishabha , Maheshwari Rahul , Patel Ravi
Published: August 2024

Effectively managing inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) poses difficulties due to its persistent nature and unpredictable episodes of exacerbation. There is encouraging evidence that personalized medication delivery systems can improve therapy efficacy while reducing the negative effects of standard medicines. Zein, a protein produced from corn, has garnered interest as a possible means of delivering drugs for the treatment of IBD. This review delves into Zein‐based drug delivery systems, showcasing its biodegradability, controlled release capabilities, and biocompatibility. Studies have shown that Zein‐based nanoparticles, microcarriers, and core‐shell microparticles have the capacity to increase medication stability, enhance targeting in the intestines, and decrease toxicity in animal models of IBD. The review highlights the promise of Zein in personalized therapy for IBD and urges more study to enhance its clinical use.
Delocalization‐ratio analysis of 3‐center bonding in position‐space for closo‐boranes and related systems: Approaching the styx picture and beyond
Authors: Wagner Frank R.
Published: August 2024

Closo‐boron hydrides BnHn2− (n = 5–12) are a conceptually well understood class of compounds. For these and a few related prototype compounds, both the local and the global picture of 3‐center bonding are extracted from position‐space quantities based on the electron density and the pair density. For this purpose, three‐center delocalization indices between quantum theory of atoms in molecules (QTAIM) atoms in position space are used to develop a consistent set of local bond and triangle, and global cluster delocalization ratios (DRs), which are quantitatively compared with conceptual Γ values derived from the styx code for each cluster. Combination of the cluster DRs with associated effective numbers of skeletal electron sharing (SES) for selected cluster surface edges, triangles, or the whole cluster yields effective styx type values describing the trend and even the size of the conceptual styx codes for closo‐boranes BnHn2− and related systems with increasing cluster size n reasonably well. For nonuniform cluster topologies, the different vertex degrees are shown to cause systematic 3‐center wise bond delocalization effects for the associated edges and triangles of different average vertex degrees. Extension of DR analysis beyond the styx type triangular cluster‐surface bonding corresponds to a triangulation of multicentric bonding. The cluster‐wise results keep indicating consistency with the mixed 2‐ and 3‐center bonding approach. The successfully established chemical meaning of the local edge, triangle, and global cluster DRs and their associated SES values constitutes the basis for systematic investigations of mixed 2‐ and 3‐center bonding scenarios in particular in intermetallic and related (endohedral) cluster compounds in the future.
How accurate can Kohn‐Sham density functional be for both main‐group and transition metal reactions
Authors: Wang Yizhen , Zhang Igor Ying , Xu Xin
Published: August 2024

Achieving chemical accuracy in describing reactions involving both main‐group elements and transition metals poses a substantial challenge for density functional approximations (DFAs), primarily due to the significantly different behaviors for electrons moving in the s,p‐orbitals or in the d,f‐orbitals. MOR41, a representative dataset of transition metal chemistry, has highlighted the PWPB95‐D3(BJ) functional, a B2PLYP‐type doubly hybrid (bDH) approximation equipped with an empirical dispersion correction, as the leading functional thus far (Dohm et al., J Chem Theory Comput 2018;14: 2596–2608). However, this functional is not among the top bDH methods for main‐group chemistry (Goerigk et al., Phys Chem Chem Phys. 2017;19: 32184). Conversely, bDH methods such as DSD‐BLYP‐D3, proficient in main‐group chemistry, often falter for transition metal chemistry. Herein, taking advantage of the home‐made Rust‐based Electronic‐Structure Toolkits, we examine a suite of XYG3‐type doubly hybrid (xDH) methods. We confirm that the trade‐off in descriptive accuracy between main‐group and transition metal systems persists within the realm of perturbation theory (PT2)‐based xDH methods. Notably, however, our study ushers in a pivotal advance with the recently proposed renormalized xDH method, R‐xDH7‐SCC15. This method not only distinguishes itself among the elite methods for main‐group chemistry, but also achieves an unprecedented accuracy for the MOR41 dataset, outperforming all other reported DFAs. The efficacy of R‐xDH7‐SCC15 stems from the successful integration of a renormalized PT2 correlation model (rPT2) and a machine‐learning strong‐correlation correction (SCC15), marking a significant step forward in the realm of computational chemistry.
Fetal echogenic bowel may be related to intestinal microbiota: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Zhao Yanping , Lyu Guorong
Published: August 2024

Objective

The purpose of the current study was to determine the difference in intestinal microbiota after delivery between healthy fetuses and fetuses with hyperechogenic bowel during the second trimester and the relationship between fetal echogenic bowel and microbiota.

Methods

Fourteen healthy fetuses (control group), 13 fetuses with echogenic bowel (EB group), and seven fetuses with echogenic bowel and other abnormalities (C‐EB group) were selected. The first meconium after delivery was collected for 16S rRNA sequencing.

Results

A total of 1 222 131 high‐quality sequences were generated after sequencing optimization of all samples. Each sample contained an average of 35 945 high‐quality sequences and 2036 operational taxonomic units (OTUs). There was no significant difference in the Shannon, Simpson index among the three groups. At the genus level, the abundance of Escherichia coli/Shigella in the EB and C‐EB groups was significantly lower than the control group, while the abundance of Staphylococcus, Methylobactrium, and Curvibacter in the EB group was significantly higher than the other groups. There was a difference in abundance of Gammaproteobacteria, Fusobacteria, Enterobacteriaceae, and E. coli in the EB and C‐EB groups.

Conclusions

The formation of echogenic bowel may be related to the microbiota.
Chondral regeneration in femoroacetabular lesions is favoured using peripheral blood stem cells with hyaluronan‐based scaffold and micro‐drilling: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Monckeberg Juan Eduardo , Rafols Claudio , Gerhard Philipp , Del Canto Leticia , Rosales Julio , Verdugo Marco Antonio , Saez Cristobal , De la Fuente Carlos
Published: August 2024

Purpose

To determine whether intra‐articular injections of peripheral blood stem cells (PBSC) with hyaluronan (HA)‐based scaffold improve articular cartilage regeneration in chondral injuries caused by mixed‐femoroacetabular impingement syndrome (FAIS) over a period longer than 24 months post‐hip arthroscopy.

Methods

In this prospective cohort study, patients with mixed‐FAIS and chondral injury ≥ IIIB according to the International Cartilage Regeneration and Joint Preservation Society grade or III/IV of Konan/Haddad classification underwent intra‐articular injection of PBSC with an HA‐based scaffold and micro‐drillings during hip arthroscopy. The degree of chondral repair was measured at baseline and 5 years using the International Cartilage Repair Society morphologic score system (MSS) as the primary outcome. Pain was measured at baseline and 5 years using the Visual Analogue Scale for Pain (VAS Pain), and hip functionality was measured at baseline (presurgery), 6 months, 1 year, and 5 years using the Hip Outcome Score (HOS). The largest diameter of injury, median follow‐up, side effects, complications, and improvements were described. T‐test, ANOVA with multiple comparisons, and statistical power were estimated.

Results

From initially 34 cases, 25 patients were enrolled. The median follow‐up was 5.1 ± 0.3 years. One patient (4%) reported a few side effects with filgrastim administration. No infection, tumours, or synovitis was reported. The largest diameters in zones two, three, and four were 12.4 ± 3.1 mm (n = 8), 13.5 ± 2.8 mm (n = 14), and 11.4 ± 1.9 mm (n = 3), respectively. Ninety‐two percent (23/25) of patients improved their outcomes. The MSS and HOS increased from 3.8 ± 1.1 to 9.6 ± 1.5 pts (p < 0.001) and from 65.5 ± 13.0 to 93.9 ± 2.4 pts (p < 0.001), respectively. The VAS‐Pain decreased from 5.3 ± 0.7 to 1.3 ± 0.6 mm (p < 0.001). The obtained a posteriori power‐size was 0.99.

Conclusion

The intervention suggests a favourable impact on articular cartilage regeneration and clinical outcomes for hip chondral lesions in mixed‐FAIS injuries after a median follow‐up of 5.1 ± 0.3 years.

Level of Evidence

Level IV.
“A weight to carry”: Experiences of masters‐level counseling faculty teaching a multicultural counseling course
Authors: Gonzalez Ileana A. , Newhart Sean , Arcot Rohan R. , Hudlin McKalah
Published: August 2024

Despite the need for culturally competent counselors, there is sparse literature on ways counselor educators navigate the processes associated with multicultural training. Using post‐intentional phenomenology, researchers interviewed nine counselor educators about their experience teaching multicultural courses and the challenges they faced in preparing future counselors. Themes related to burden, navigating limited support, the dynamic nature of the course, and achieving multicultural training aims emerged. Implications for counseling programs, academic institutions, and the profession are discussed.
A conceptual learning analysis of paired after action and intra action reviews for health emergencies
Authors: Brennan Elliot , Abimbola Seye
Published: August 2024

Background

Processes of self‐reflection and the learning they allow are crucial before, during, and after acute emergencies, including infectious disease outbreaks. Tools—such as Action Reviews—offer World Health Organization (WHO) member states a platform to enhance learning. We sought to better understand the value of these tools and how they may be further refined and better used.

Methods

We searched the publicly available WHO Strategic Partnership for Health Security website for paired reports of Action Reviews, that is, reports with a comparable follow‐up report. We complemented the paired action reviews, with a literature search, including the gray literature. The paired action reviews were analyzed using the “Learning Health Systems” framework.

Results

We identified three paired action reviews: Lassa Fever After Action Reviews (AARs) in Nigeria (2017 and 2018), COVID‐19 Intra‐Action Reviews (IARs) in Botswana (2020 and 2021), and COVID‐19 IARs in South Sudan (2020 and 2021). Action Reviews allowed for surfacing relevant knowledge and, by engaging the right (in different contexts) actors, asking “are we doing things right?” (single loop learning) was evident in all the reports. Single loop learning is often embedded within examples of double loop learning (“are we doing the right things?”), providing a more transformative basis for policy change. Triple loop learning (“are we learning right”?) was evident in AARs, and less in IARs. The range of participants involved, the level of concentrated focus on specific issues, the duration available for follow through, and the pressures on the health system to respond influenced the type (i.e., loop) and the effectiveness of learning.

Conclusion

Action Reviews, by design, surface knowledge. With favorable contextual conditions, this knowledge can then be applied and lead to corrective and innovative actions to improve health system performance, and in exceptional cases, continuous learning.
Functional Semi‐Interpenetrating Polymer Networks
Authors: Wang Minghao , Jiang Jiawei , Liang Shuofeng , Sui Cong , Wu Si
Published: August 2024

Semi‐interpenetrating polymer networks (SIPNs) have garnered significant interest due to their potential applications in self‐healing materials, drug delivery systems, electrolytes, functional membranes, smart gels and, toughing. SIPNs combine the characteristics of physical cross‐linking with advantageous chemical properties, offering broad application prospects in materials science and engineering. This perspective introduces the history of semi‐interpenetrating polymer networks and their diverse applications. Additionally, the ongoing challenges associated with traditional semi‐interpenetrating polymer materials are discussed and provide an outlook on future advancements in novel functional SIPNs.
Does a super league tournament harm domestic leagues? Evidence from basketball's Euroleague
Authors: Buraimo Babatunde , Guan Jing , Tena J. D.
Published: August 2024

Sports leagues are traditionally considered natural monopolies. Understanding how they interact with one another is important. It is unclear how participation in a closed supra league affects competition in domestic leagues. This paper studies the effect of participating in basketball's Euroleague on team performance in national leagues. We find that Euroleague participation reduces the probability of victory by around 9% in ‘big’ leagues (i.e. those with the strongest teams). However, no significant effect was found in other leagues. A possible transmission channel is the reduction in the number of days between matches. We discuss the policy implications of this result.
Effect of GBA1 Mutations and APOE Polymorphisms on Survival and Progression Among Ashkenazi Jews with Dementia with Lewy Bodies
Authors: Shiner Tamara , Kavé Gitit , Mirelman Anat , Regev Keren , Piura Yoav , Goldstein Orly , Gana Weisz Mali , Bar‐Shira Anat , Gurevich Tanya , Orr‐Urtreger Avi , Alcalay Roy N. , Giladi Nir , Bregman Noa
Published: August 2024

Background

Glucocerebrosidase 1 (GBA1) mutations are associated with reduced survival in Parkinson's disease but their effect on survival in dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) is unclear.

Objective

To assess the impact of GBA1 mutations on survival among Ashkenazi Jews with DLB, while controlling for APOE status.

Methods

One hundred and forty participants from Tel Aviv Medical Center, Israel were genotyped for GBA1 mutations and APOE polymorphisms. Survival rates and follow‐up cognitive screening scores were analyzed.

Results

GBA1 mutation carriers had a two‐fold increased risk of death (HR = 1.999), while APOE status did not independently affect survival. In a subset of patients with available clinical data (N = 63), carriers of the APOE ε4 allele showed faster cognitive deterioration, while GBA1 mutation carriers also declined more rapidly albeit not significantly.

Conclusion

Understanding the genetic effects on survival and progression is crucial for patient counseling and inclusion in clinical trials.
Application of Chelyshkov wavelets and least squares support vector regression to solve fractional differential equations arising in optics and engineering
Authors: Ordokhani Yadollah , Sabermahani Sedigheh , Rahimkhani Parisa
Published: August 2024

Fractional‐order ray equations and fractional Duffing‐van der Pol oscillator equations are relationships utilized as a reliable means of modeling some phenomena in optics and engineering. The main motivation of this study is to introduce a new hybrid technique utilizing Chelyshkov wavelets and least squares‐support vector regression (LS‐SVR) for determining the approximate solution of fractional ray equations and fractional Duffing‐van der Pol oscillator equations (D‐v POEs). With the help of the Riemann‐Liouville operator for Chelyshkov wavelets and LS‐SVR (called Chw‐Ls‐SVR), the mentioned problems transform into systems of algebraic equations. The convergence analysis is discussed. Finally, the numerical results are proposed and compared with some schemes to display the capability of the numerical technique proposed here.
Fleischalternativen: Pflanzliche Protein prüfen
Authors: Ehrensberger Christian
Published: August 2024

Weil sich immer mehr Menschen rein pflanzlich oder mit weniger Fleisch gesund ernähren möchten, entwickeln Unternehmen Produkte mit Proteinen etwa aus Hülsenfrüchten, Sojabohnen oder Mais. Ein Fraunhofer‐Datenbankprojekt soll dabei die richtige Kombination finden helfen.
Milch oder nicht?
Authors: Lüddeke Laura , Habelitz‐Tkotz Waltraud
Published: August 2024

Ob es sich um Milch oder eine pflanzenbasierte Alternative handelt, zeigt die Nährwerttabelle der Verpackung: Eiweiß‐, Fett‐ und Kohlenhydratgehalt unterscheiden sich meist deutlich. Das lässt sich auch mit Nachweisreaktionen erfassen. Kombiniert mit Blindverkostung und Diskussion zu den Umweltauswirkungen der Herstellprozesse liefern sie Stoff für eine Doppelstunde.
Desinfektion: Lichtpulse killen Keime
Authors: Reiff Ellen‐Christine , Schullerer Peter
Published: August 2024

Gepulstes UV‐Licht liefert praxisgerecht saubere Verpackungen für Molkereiprodukte. In Bechern und Tüten deaktiviert es Mikroorganismen und Sporen ohne Rückstände, wie sie etwa beim chemischen Reinigen auftreten.
Weight management medications for chronic use in 37 veterans affairs medical centers—A medication use evaluation
Authors: Walczuk Samantha , Burk Muriel , Furmaga Elaine , Ghassemi Samaneh , McCarren Madeline , Bukowski Kenneth , Glassman Peter , Cunningham Fran
Published: August 2024

Rationale

Controlled trials have demonstrated successful weight loss associated with certain weight management medications (WMMs). However, there are limited real‐world data on prescribing patterns and efficacy and safety profiles of WMMs in Veterans Affairs (VA) patients.

Objective

To evaluate: utilization patterns of WMMs liraglutide, naltrexone/bupropion, orlistat, phentermine, phentermine/topiramate, and semaglutide; weight loss at three, six, twelve, and more than 12 months; safety; and treatment barriers.

Methods

A retrospective, cross‐sectional medication use evaluation (MUE) was conducted using electronic health records of outpatient Veterans newly initiated on WMMs at 37 VA Medical Centers between 1 March 2020 and 31 March 2022. Chart review was used to identify WMM utilization and capture rates of clinical response, defined as 5% and 10% or greater weight loss at the final weight, adverse drug events (ADEs), non‐adherence, and discontinuations. Site‐specific surveys evaluated local practices and barriers.

Results

Among 1959 eligible Veterans, semaglutide, phentermine/topiramate, and orlistat were most frequently prescribed. The clinical response was highest among phentermine/topiramate, liraglutide, and semaglutide. Naltrexone/bupropion and phentermine demonstrated the highest and lowest ADE rates, respectively. Potential barriers to WMM utilization and successful treatment by site reports were drug shortages, patient perceptions of therapeutic course, personal preferences, and VA WMM use criteria.

Conclusions

Smaller weight loss and higher discontinuation rates were observed relative to clinical trials. The MUE data allow for better assessment of benefits and risks for Veterans prescribed WMMs.
Examine the mechanical properties of woven glass fiber fabric reinforced composite plate manufactured with vat‐photopolymerization
Authors: Çava Kutay , İpek Hüseyin , Uşun Altuğ , Aslan Mustafa
Published: August 2024

Additive manufacturing has enhanced the production of complex parts with greater efficiency. However, inherent drawbacks such as reduced mechanical properties still pose challenges, necessitating further improvements to bridge the gap and meet industry demands. Therefore, this study investigated the use of glass fiber woven fabric with vat‐photopolymerization printing to achieve composite parts with superior mechanical properties. This approach offered an advantage in reducing the production time required for fiber‐reinforced composites by eliminating the need for curing processes or vacuum infusion. The mechanical properties of the composite panels manufactured with this method were investigated using flexural, interlaminar shear (ILSS), impact tests with different fiber orientations, and fiber volume fractions. The results of the mechanical tests showed maximum flexural strength of 295 MPa, impact strength of 174 kJ/m2, and ILSS of 20.58 MPa. In addition, optical images were taken to examine the cross‐section of the printed parts, which revealed a uniform and good wetting of the fibers. The findings suggest that glass fiber woven fabric in vat printing is a promising approach for producing composite parts with enhanced mechanical properties and reduced production rate.

Highlights

Additive manufacturing of glass fiber woven fabric reinforced with VPP printing.

Reduced production time and microstructure by using layer‐by‐layer manufacturing.

Maximum flexural strength: 295 MPa, impact strength: 174 kJ/m2, ILSS: 20.58 MPa.

Consistent porosity values with the increasing number of layers.

Promising for producing standard and thick composites with improved properties.
Repetitive recycling effects on mechanical characteristics of poly‐lactic acid and PLA/spent coffee grounds composite used for 3D printing filament
Authors: Boughanmi Oumaima , Allegue Lamis , Marouani Haykel , Koubaa Ahmed , Fouad Yasser
Published: August 2024

Due to its biodegradability, biocompatibility, and mechanical properties, poly‐lactic acid (PLA) is a leading biomaterial for numerous applications, especially for fused deposition modeling and fused filament fabrication. Nonetheless, the absence of a comprehensive recycling strategy may emerge as a significant source of plastic pollution in the future. Indeed, the polymer undergoes deterioration during melt recycling, resulting in a decrease in some mechanical properties that can compromise recyclability. To improve the properties of recycled PLA, the utilization of organic fillers coming from renewable materials can be considered as a sustainable solution. The objective of this work is then to evaluate the effect of recycling (reprocessing) on a virgin raw material as well as on biocomposites based on spent coffee grounds (incorporating 5% of spend coffee grounds in weight). The different types of filaments are extruded and re‐extruded and characterized under tensile, melt flow index, and hardness tests. The results show that the increase in the number of extrusions whether for virgin PLA or the composite contributes to the diameter fluctuation. Regarding the tensile properties, the rise in the frequency of recycling shows a weakness in the tensile strength and the elongation at break. On the other hand, Young's modulus values exhibit fluctuations. Concerning the addition of the spent coffee grounds filler, no major enhancement is observed in the tensile strength and the elongation at break, which is attributed to the poor adhesion between the matrix and the filler. The recycling process affects the hardness values of PLA, leading to an increase in these values, as well as those of the composite, which can be associated with the increased crystallinity caused by the recycling process and the SCG incorporation.

Highlights

Recycling and reusability strategy for poly‐lactic acid (PLA) and PLA/spent coffee grounds (SCG) filaments.

Assessment of recycling effects on PLA and PLA/SCG.

Mechanical characterization through tensile and hardness testing.
Isotactic polypropylene produced by rac/meso mixtures of hafnocene complexes through selective rac activation
Authors: Lenz Tim M. , Rieger Bernhard
Published: August 2024

Meso isomers of indenyl‐based group IV hafnocene complexes produce atactic polypropylene (aPP) and thus, have to be tediously separated from their racemic analogs for the production of isotactic polypropylene (iPP). Herein, we report a facile activation protocol to selectively convert only the racemic precatalysts into catalytically active species when isomeric precatalyst mixtures are employed. At the same time, the meso isomers are deactivated, thus yielding no polypropylene at all. The macromolecular characteristics of iPP, that is, melting transition, molecular weight, and tacticity, obtained by this protocol were analog to the characteristics of iPP produced by the corresponding pure racemic isomers, as proven for different complexes, isomeric ratios, and polymerization conditions. Nuclear magnetic resonance experiments revealed that the employed precatalyst activation protocol – that is, alkylation with triisobutylaluminum and subsequent generation of a free coordination site with [Ph3C][B(C6F5)4] – led to catalytically active, binuclear hydride‐bridged racemic species but inactive meso resting states. The separation of both precatalyst isomers, which was believed to be crucial to obtaining pure iPP since the 1980s, rendered hafnocene syntheses unnecessarily laborious and can be circumvented by the activation protocol established in this work.
Effects of cold atmospheric plasma‐treated medium on HaCaT and HUVEC cells in vitro
Authors: Chen Mingyan , Chen Junjin , Xie Tian , Chen Zheng , Xu Guimin
Published: August 2024

Cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) is an emerging technology that can generate various reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS) at room temperature and shows promising applications for skin wound healing. The effects of plasma‐treated medium (PTM) promoting cell proliferation have been verified, but the biological mechanisms involved are not well known. This study aims to assess the proliferation effect and mechanism induced by PTM on human keratinocyte cells (HaCaT) and human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) in vitro. The results showed that the concentrations of H2O2 and NO2− inside PTM increased in a time‐dependent manner as the atmospheric pressure plasma jet (APPJ) treatment time was prolonged. The biological outcomes were determined by cell counting kit, wound healing assay, flow cytometry, enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and western blot analysis. The cell viability and motility assays indicated that appropriate plasma conditions of short treatment time (15s‐, 30s‐ and 45s‐PTM) could promote cell proliferation, while long treatment time would inhibit cell proliferation (60s‐PTM). With an appropriate time of PTM treatment, the secretion of vascular endothelial growth factor‐α (VEGF‐α) and transforming growth factor alpha (TGF‐α) was promoted and the extracellular signal‐regulated kinase/serine‐threonine protein kinase pathways were activated, which induced HaCaT and HUVEC cell proliferation eventually. These behaviors of cells were mainly related to the enhancement of intracellular reactive oxygen species levels. These findings established a theoretical foundation for potential clinical applications of PTM in wound healing.
Effect of nurse‐led and physician‐led multidisciplinary team palliative care on quality of life, negative emotions, and pain for cancer patients: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Li Yunrong , Wang Tiantian , Zhang Yi , Zhao Yun
Published: August 2024

To systematically evaluate the effect of nurse‐led and physician‐led multidisciplinary team (MDT) palliative care models on quality of life, negative emotions, and pain for cancer patients. A comprehensive literature search of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published in nine databases was conducted. Data analysis was performed using RevMan5.3. The findings were summarized using a random effects model of mean differences with 95% confidence intervals. The search strategy identified 15 articles involving 1850 cancer patients. MDT hospice care improved quality of life among cancer patients (SMD = 1.77, 95% CI [1.08, 2.46], Z = 5.02, p < .001), with nurse‐led care (SMD = 3.04, 95% CI [2.29, 3.79], Z = 7.95, p < .001) providing better effects than physician‐led care (SMD = 0.5, 95% CI [0.33, 0.67], Z = 5.76, p < .001). Furthermore, MDT hospice care significantly alleviated depression (SMD = –1.31, 95% CI [−1.49, −1.12], Z = 14.18, p < .001) and anxiety (SMD = –1.11, 95%CI [−1.29, −0.92], Z = 11.69, p < .001) and reduced patients' pain (SMD = –0.92, 95% CI [−1.13, −0.7], Z = 8.37, p < .001). Nurse‐led care provided better effects for relieving anxiety and depression, while physician‐led care provided better effects for relieving pain. The findings of the meta‐analysis indicate that MDT palliative care can improve the quality of life for cancer patients and alleviate their depression, anxiety and their pain. Nurse‐led care was superior in terms of quality of life, depression, and anxiety indicators, while physician‐led care had a more significant effect on pain relief.
Mountain waves developing inside and aloft stably stratified turbulent boundary layers
Authors: Pauget Lucile , Lott Francois , Millet Christophe
Published: August 2024

A linear theory of the trapped mountain waves that develop in a turbulent boundary layer is presented. The theory uses a mixing‐length turbulence model based on Monin–Obukhov similarity theory. First, the backward reflection of a stationary gravity wave propagating toward the ground is examined. Three parameters are investigated systematically: the Monin–Obukhov length , the roughness length , and the limit value of the mixing length aloft the “inner” layer. The reflection coefficient appears to depend strongly on the Richardson number aloft the inner layer (, with the von Kármán constant), with the reflection decreasing when the stability increases. The influence of the roughness and mixing lengths on the reflection is explained in terms of the depth of a “pseudo”‐critical level located below the surface, with the reflection decreasing when the depth of the “pseudo”‐critical level decreases. The preferential modes of oscillations occurring in the presence of mountain forcing are then analysed, with the decay rate of the trapped waves downstream increasing when the reflection decreases. At a certain point nevertheless, when the absorption is large but the boundary‐layer depth deep enough, trapped modes appear that interact little with the surface.
Relapsing polychondritis after COVID‐19 vaccination
Authors: Ito Koki , Ogawa Takunori , Igarashi Shunya , Miyai Kosuke , Sato Kimiya , Kawana Akihiko , Kimizuka Yoshifumi
Published: August 2024

Relapsing polychondritis (RP) is a rare inflammatory disorder involving immune‐mediated destruction of cartilaginous structures. Herein, we present the first report of a strong association between COVID‐19 vaccination and RP development. Clinicians should be aware that RP is among the autoimmune diseases that can develop after mRNA vaccination.
Quantized output‐feedback event‐triggered distributed control of switched fractional multi‐agent systems subject to input nonlinearities and consensus error constraints
Authors: Malek Sayyed Alireza , Shahrokhi Mohammad , Pishro Aboozar
Published: August 2024

In this paper, an adaptive quantized output feedback event‐triggered (ET) distributed consensus control approach for an uncertain nonstrict nonlinear switched fractional‐order (FO) multi‐agent system (SFOMAS) subject to communication limitation is proposed. By relying on the common Lyapunov function method, the switch signals are arbitrarily, and no information regarding the switching instants is required. The consensus error of each agent has its own asymmetric time‐varying constraints (ATCs). By adopting the common barrier Lyapunov function (BLF), violation of these constraints is prevented. For each agent, different input nonlinearities can be considered in different modes, and the controllers need no information about their types and characteristics. The communication burden between outputs sensors and the controllers is reduced by applying uniform‐logarithmic‐hysteresis quantizers to the outputs signals. By using FO filters, which can be considered as a FO version of the dynamic surface control (DSC) method, the so‐called explosion of complexity is avoided and the discontinuity problem of FO derivatives of virtual controllers due to outputs quantization is resolved. Observers are designed to estimate the unmeasured states. Also, function approximators (FAs) are employed to approximate uncertainties. A novel lemma that correlates observer states to consensus errors and their constraints, FO filters errors, adaptive parameters and backstepping error surfaces, has been proposed to establish the observer stability. To reduce the communication burden between the controllers and actuators, relative threshold ET mechanisms have been applied to control signals. The combination problem of unmeasured states with the mentioned input constraints for SFOMASs is coped with another novel lemma. Utilizing the common Lyapunov functions (CLFs) and the backstepping technique, virtual controllers, adaptive law and control signal for each agent have been designed and boundedness of closed‐loop signals and avoidance of Zeno behavior have been proved. The effectiveness of the proposed control scheme is demonstrated through a simulation study.
Soybean planting date affects the relationships between soil test values and grain yield
Authors: Loman Marcos Harm , Sible Connor N. , Below Frederick E.
Published: August 2024

Many soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] growers in the US Midwest rely on soil test values for evaluating the crop's fertilizer needs. However, threshold values for Illinois were calibrated to soybean yield in the 1960s when the production systems and yield potential were much different than today. The objective of this study was to determine which and how well soil test values predict yield of unfertilized soybean. Preplant soil samples, collected from 133 trials across Illinois from 2014 to 2021, were analyzed for 14 chemical attributes and compared to unfertilized soybean grain yields from those same studies. Pearson correlation coefficients (r), principal factor analysis, and latent variable regression models were used to determine those soil attributes most closely associated with grain yield and yield components. The association of planting date and yield (r = −0.56) led to dividing the data set into five planting date groups. Soil fertility levels resulted in a strong correlation with yield for Late or Very‐late planting groups, but not for the Early or Very‐early groups. A factor analysis of soil attributes largely resulted in retention of two factors, identified as Soil Organic Charge and Soil Fertility, across the planting‐date groups. Regression of these factors with yield confirmed that soil fertility had a greater influence on grain yield for late‐planted soybeans than early‐planted and that these differences were associated with average seed weight. Therefore, positioning late‐planted soybeans in higher fertility fields and early‐planted soybeans in lower‐fertility fields could reduce the need for supplemental fertilization.
Work‐related resilience, engagement and wellbeing among music industry workers during the Covid‐19 pandemic: A multiwave model of mindfulness and hope
Authors: Scott Kristin L. , Ferrise Emily , Sheridan Sharon , Zagenczyk Thomas J.
Published: August 2024

We surveyed workers in the performing arts sector to explore the role of positive mindsets in facilitating work‐related resilience, engagement and reduced stress using retrospective reporting surveys during the Covid‐19 work shut down period. Integrating conservation of resources theory with research on metacognitive self‐regulation, we controlled for the severity of the Covid‐19 impact and negative affect and found that hope (but not mindfulness) predicted professional engagement, resiliency and reduced tension and distress over time. Further, the relationships between hope and outcomes were mediated by positive affect (PA). Mindfulness was not indirectly (via PA) related to outcomes (i.e., engagement, resiliency, job tension, distress) but was directly and negatively related to job tension and distress. These findings suggest that in times of intense stress or adversity, future‐oriented thinking such as hope may be more effective than mindfulness in sustaining positive mindsets and action‐oriented outcomes such as engagement. Implications for practice and future research are discussed.
Quantum Dot/TiO2 Nanocomposite‐Based Photoelectrochemical Sensor for Enhanced H2O2 Detection Applied for Cell Monitoring and Visualization
Authors: Zhao Shuang , Yue Zhao , Zhu Dingcheng , Harberts Jann , Blick Robert H. , Zierold Robert , Lisdat Fred , Parak Wolfgang J.
Published: August 2024

This work exploits the possibility of using CdSe/ZnS quantum dot (QD)‐electrodes to monitor the metabolism of living cells based on photoelectrochemical (PEC) measurements. To realize that, the PEC setup is improved with respect to an enhanced photocurrent signal, better stability, and an increased signal‐to‐noise ratio, but also for a better biocompatibility of the sensor surface on which cells have been grown. To achieve this, a QD‐TiO2 heterojunction is introduced with the help of atomic layer deposition (ALD). The heterojunction reduces the charge carrier recombination inside the semiconductor nanoparticles and improves the drift behavior. The PEC performance is carefully analyzed by adjusting the TiO2 thickness and combining this strategy with multilayer immobilizations of QDs. The optimal thickness of this coating is ≈5 nm; here, photocurrent generation can be enhanced significantly (e.g., for a single QD layer electrode by more than one order of magnitude at 0 V vs Ag/AgCl). The resulting optimized electrode is used for hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) sensing with a good sensitivity down to µmolar concentrations, reusability, stability, response rate, and repeatability. Finally, the sensing system is applied to monitor the activity of cells directly grown on top of the electrode surface.
Ultrafast Hole Trapping in Te‐MoTe2‐MoSe2/ZnO S‐Scheme Heterojunctions for Photochemical and Photo‐/Electrochemical Hydrogen Production
Authors: Ali Syed Asim , Ahmad Tokeer
Published: August 2024

Te‐MoTe2‐MoSe2/ZnO S‐scheme heterojunctions are engineered to ascertain the advanced redox ability in sustainable HER operations. Photo‐physical studies have established the steady state transfer of photo‐induced charge carriers whereas an improved transfer dynamics realized by state‐of‐art ultrafast transient absorption and irradiated‐XPS analysis of optimized 5wt% Te‐MoTe2‐MoSe2/ZnO heterostructure. 2.5, 5, and 7.5wt% Te‐MoTe2‐MoSe2/ZnO photocatalysts (2.5MTMZ, 5MTMZ and 7.5MTMZ) exhibited 2.8, 3.3, and 3.1‐fold higher HER performance than pristine ZnO with marvelous apparent quantum efficiency of 35.09%, 41.42% and 38.79% at HER rate of 4.45, 5.25, and 4.92 mmol/gcat/h, respectively. Electrochemical water splitting experiments manifest subdued 583 and 566 mV overpotential values of 2.5MTMZ and 5MTMZ heterostructures to achieve 10 mA cm−2 current density for HER, and 961 and 793 mV for OER, respectively. For optimized 5MTMZ photocatalyst, lifetime kinetic decay of interfacial charge transfer step is evaluated to be 138.67 ps as compared to 52.92 ps for bare ZnO.