bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Organic Solar Cells at Stratospheric Condition for High Altitude Platform Station Application†
Authors: Datt Ram , Lee Harrison Ka Hin , Zhang Guichuan , Yip Hin‐Lap , Tsoi Wing Chung
Published: September 2022

Comprehensive Summary

High specific power or power to mass ratio is a critical concern of photovoltaic (PV) for aerospace applications. Organic solar cells (OSCs) have advantages such as high absorption coefficient, compatibility with flexible substrate, light‐weight, etc. Moreover, recently OSCs achieved power conversion efficiency (PCE) over 20% with the incorporation of the non‐fullerene based small molecule acceptor and high specific power is believed to be obtained. To enter the market, high‐altitude platform station (HAPS) is perhaps the first place to start with. In this work, we explore and compare the in‐situ performance of two high performing OSCs, using the same donor but different acceptors, in mimic HAPS environment where the pressure, temperature and the illumination conditions are controlled. We found that the use of acceptor can result in substantial difference in the performance at low temperatures.
Predictors and morphological properties of culprit healed plaques in patients with angina pectoris
Authors: Yao Hongying , Guo Qianyun , Cheng Yujing , Zhu Tianyu , Ma Qian , Zhou Yujie
Published: September 2022

Background

Plaque healing may serve a vital function in the natural progression of atherosclerotic disease. This study sought to investigate predictors and morphological characteristics of healed plaque (HP) among angina pectoris (AP) patients.

Methods

Patients who presented with AP and received preintervention optical coherence tomography (OCT) imaging were consecutively selected for this single‐center retrospective observational study. Patient's demographic and clinical information was collected from the hospital's electronic medical records. Coronary angiograms and OCT images were compared via offline software.

Results

A total of 390 patients were chosen as the final study population. HP was identified in 186 patients (47.7%) and was relatively less in cases of unstable angina pectoris (UAP) than in stable angina pectoris (SAP) (89/233 [38.2%] vs. 97/157[61.8%]). The HP group had greater prevalence rates of previous myocardial infarction and SAP and higher levels of triglycerides and uremia (median, 1.67 vs. 1.31 mmol/L [p = .01] and 364.22 ± 91.80 vs. 341.53 ± 77.64 µmol/L [p = .01], respectively). Using multivariate analysis, SAP and long lesion length were shown to be stand‐alone indicators of HP. HP presented with more severe stenosis as well as a longer lesion length and had more vulnerable and more complex features. In HP lesions, UAP patients had more plaque ruptures and thrombosis, whereas SAP patients had lower uric acid levels and more multiple HPs(≥3 HPs).

Conclusion

Clinical presentation of SAP and long lesion length were strong predictors for HP in patients with AP. Patients with HP presented with more severe stenosis, longer lesion lengths, greater inflammation, and vulnerability.
Prognosis of PCI in AMI setting in the elderly population: Outcomes from the multicenter prospective e‐ULTIMASTER registry
Authors: Saada Majdi , Kobo Ofer , Polad Jawed , Halabi Majdi , IJsselmuiden Alexander J. J. , Puentes Ángel , Monségu Jacques , Austin David , Baisebenov Ruslan K. , Spanó Fabrizio , Roguin Ariel ,   e‐ULTIMASTER Investigators
Published: September 2022

Background

Elderly patients with ST‐elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) who undergo percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) are usually excluded from major trials.

Hyopthesis

This study sought to assess 1‐year clinical outcomes following PCI with a drug‐eluting stent in patients older than 80 years old with STEMI.

Methods

The large all‐comer, multicontinental e‐ULTIMASTER registry included 7507 patients with STEMI who underwent PCI using the Ultimaster stent. The primary clinical endpoint was 1‐year target lesion failure, a composite of cardiac death (CD), target vessel‐related myocardial infarction (TV‐MI), or clinically driven target lesion revascularization (CD‐TLR).

Results

There were 457 (6.1%) patients in the elderly group (≥80 years old) that were compared to 7050 (93.9%) patients <80 years. The elderly patients included more female patients and had significantly more comorbidities and had more complex coronary anatomy. The primary endpoint occurred in 7.2% of the elderly, compared to 3.1% of the younger group (p < .001). All‐cause mortality was significantly higher among the elderly group compared to the younger group (10.1% vs. 2.3%, p < .0001), as well as CD (6.1% vs. 1.6%, p < .0001), but not TV‐MI (1.1% vs. 0.7%, p = .34) or CD‐TLR (1.1% vs. 1.4%, p = .63).

Conclusion

Elderly patients with STEMI presentation had a higher incidence of the composite endpoint than younger patients. All‐cause and CD were higher for elderly patients compared to patients younger than 80 years old. However, there was no difference in the incidence of TV‐MI or target lesion revascularizations. These findings suggest that PCI for STEMI in elderly patients is relatively safe.
Population PK and Semimechanistic PK/PD Modeling and Simulation of Relugolix Effects on Testosterone Suppression in Men with Prostate Cancer
Authors: Lee Tien‐Yi , Pierrillas Philippe Bernard , Lin Yu‐Wei , de Greef Rik , Zandvliet Anthe Suzanne , Schindler Emilie , Migoya Elizabeth
Published: September 2022

Relugolix, the first orally active, nonpeptide gonadotropin‐releasing hormone receptor antagonist, is approved in the United States and the European Union for the treatment of adult patients with advanced prostate cancer. The recommended dosing regimen is a 360‐mg loading dose followed by a 120‐mg daily dose. Relugolix and testosterone concentration data and clinical information from two phase I studies, two phase II studies, and the phase III safety and efficacy study (HERO) were used to develop a population pharmacokinetic (PopPK) model and a semimechanistic population pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PopPK/PD) model that characterized relugolix exposure and its relationship to testosterone concentrations. Age, body weight, and Black/African American race had at most minimal effects on relugolix exposure or testosterone concentrations with no clinical relevance. Simulations using the PopPK/PD model confirmed the recommended dosing regimen of relugolix, with the median simulated testosterone concentrations predicted to achieve castration levels (< 50 ng/dL) and profound castration levels (< 20 ng/dL) by day 2 and day 9, respectively, and demonstrated that 97.3% and 85.5% of the patients remained at castration levels (< 50 ng/dL) upon temporary interruption of treatment for 7 days and 14 days, respectively. Collectively, simulations based on the PopPK and PopPK/PD models were consistent with actual data from clinical studies, reflecting the high predictiveness of the models and supporting the reliability of model‐based simulations. These models can be used to provide guidance regarding dosing recommendations under various circumstances (e.g., temporary interruption of treatment, if needed) for relugolix.
Synthesis of 4′‐C‐(Aminoethyl)thymidine and 4′‐C‐[(N‐Methyl)aminoethyl] Thymidine Nucleosides to Enhance DNA Stability
Authors: Chandela Akash , Ueda Hiroki , Ueno Yoshihito
Published: September 2022

Antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) therapeutics target the pathogenic mRNA directly and modulate protein expression. Novel chemical modifications help to improve the action of ASOs with better thermal stability and resistance against nucleases. Oligodeoxynucleotides (ODNs) containing 4′‐C‐(aminoethyl)thymidine modifications exhibit efficient and stable hybridization with complementary DNA as well as RNA strands showing remarkably improved resistance against nucleolytic hydrolysis, which makes them promising candidates for antisense therapeutics. This article describes the synthesis of a novel nucleoside analog, 4′‐C‐[(N‐methyl)aminoethyl]‐thymidine (4′‐MAE‐T), 3, and previously reported 4′‐C‐aminoethyl‐thymidine (4′‐AE‐T), 2, through a newly designed synthetic route to obtain a high overall yield. This has been established by changing the starting material from thymidine to diacetone‐D‐glucofuranose and synthesizing the known 4‐C‐hydroxyethyl pentofuranose. Conversion of the hydroxy group to an azide functional group through Mitsunobu azidation and performing acetolysis, provide the common intermediate 4‐C‐(2‐azidoethyl)‐ribofuranose. Subsequent coupling of the thymine nucleobase with the common intermediate under Vorbrüggen glycosylation conditions provides the corresponding modified nucleoside in high yield. It was subjected for conversion of the azide to an amine by Staudinger reaction and 2ʹ‐deoxygenation using Barton‐McCombie conditions. Debenzylation with Lewis acid and mono‐dimethoxytritylation of the 5ʹ‐OH afforded a fully protected 3ʹ‐OH intermediate for phosphitylation to give the corresponding phosphoramidites. In the case of 4′‐MAE‐T, benzyloxymethyl protection of the N3‐position and methylation were carried out prior to debenzylation. These phosphoramidite monomers were suitable with conventional oligonucleotide synthesis, and imparted ameliorated nuclease resistance, and competent RNase H activity, suggesting its potential utilization in ASO drugs. © 2022 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Preparation of 4‐C‐(2‐azidoethyl)‐ribofuranose (6)

Basic Protocol 2: Synthesis of 4′‐C‐aminoethyl thymidine phosphoramidite (15)

Basic Protocol 3: Synthesis of 4′‐C‐(N‐methyl)aminoethyl thymidine phosphoramidite (20)
Novel dynamic wireless power transfer system using in‐tire and in‐wheel repeater coil for battery electric vehicles
Authors: Sumiya Hayato , Takahashi Eisuke , Yamaguchi Nobuhisa , Tani Keisuke , Shimizu Osamu , Nagai Sakahisa , Fujimoto Hiroshi , Gunji Daisuke , Kuwayama Isao
Published: September 2022

In order to improve the mileage per charge of battery electric vehicles (BEV), dynamic wireless power transfer systems are being developed. There are some problems such as is the wide gap between coils when mounted under the floor of a vehicle, and the effect of foreign objects between coils on power transmission. In‐wheel coils, in which the coils are placed inside the wheel, have been proposed as a solution to these problems. However, they a plastic wheel such as CFRP and cannot reduce the gap between coils. In this paper, we propose a coil configuration in which the coils are placed inside the tire and the wheel. This configuration has the advantage of using a conventional aluminum to reduce the gap between coils. The effectiveness of this method is demonstrated via simulations and experiments.
Are Green Household Consumer Products Less Toxic than Conventional Products? An Assessment Involving Grass Shrimp (Palaemon pugio) and Daphnia magna
Authors: Gray Austin D. , Miller Jonté A. , Weinstein John E.
Published: September 2022

Although it is generally assumed that green household consumer products (HCPs) contain individual compounds that are less toxic and/or more degradable than conventional HCPs, little research on this topic has been conducted. In our assessments, larval grass shrimp (Palaemon pugio) were used in a biodegradation study and juvenile freshwater cladocerans, Daphnia magna, were used in a photodegradation study. In each study, organisms were exposed to nondegraded and degraded treatments consisting of one green HCP and two conventional HCPs in six different categories (laundry detergent, dish detergent, mouthwash, insecticide, dishwasher gel, and all-purpose cleaner). Sensitivity to these products were assessed using 48-h static acute toxicity tests, and the median lethal concentrations (LC50s) then compared using an LC50 ratio test. For grass shrimp, only one green HCP (insecticide) was less toxic than both conventional HCPs. In one category (laundry detergent), the green HCP was the more toxic than either conventional HCP. Following a biodegradation treatment, none of the green product formulations became less toxic, whereas 44.4% of the conventional HCPs demonstrated decreased toxicity. For daphnids, green HCPs in three categories (dish detergent, insecticide, and all-purpose cleaner) were less toxic than both conventional products tested. Following a photodegradation treatment, two green product formulations (dish detergent and dishwasher gel) became less toxic (33.3%), whereas 87.5% of the conventional HCPs demonstrated decreased toxicity. The present study demonstrates that green HCPs are not necessarily less toxic and/or more degradable than their conventional counterparts. These results also suggest that the toxicity and degradability of end-product formulations need to be considered in the overall framework for green product evaluation. Environ Toxicol Chem 2022;41:2444–2453. © 2022 The Authors. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of SETAC.
High frequency of acute decompensation and cancer in patients with compensated cirrhosis due to nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Bassegoda Octavi , Rivera‐Esteban Jesús , Serra Isabel , Morillas Rosa , Broquetas Teresa , Vergara Mercedes , Rodriguez Adrià , Aracil Carles , Virolés Silvia , Carrión Jose A. , Pardo Albert , Rodríguez‐Tajes Sergio , Serra‐Burriel Miquel , Pericàs Juan M. , Augustin Salvador , Ginès Pere , Graupera Isabel
Published: September 2022

The natural history of compensated cirrhosis due to nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has not been completely characterized. The aim of the present study was to assess the incidence and risk factors of acute decompensation of cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma, and extrahepatic cancers. This was a multicenter, retrospective, cohort study including 449 patients with compensated cirrhosis due to NAFLD. We calculated cumulative incidences and used competitive risk analysis to determine the risk factors associated with decompensation and cancer development. Over a median of 39 months of follow‐up, 124 patients (28%) presented acute decompensation. The most frequent decompensation was ascites (21%) followed by hepatic encephalopathy (15%), variceal bleeding (9%), and spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (3%). Acute‐on‐chronic liver failure was diagnosed in 6% of patients during follow‐up. Liver function parameters and specifically an albumin level below 40 g/L were independently associated with an increased risk of decompensation. The presence of ischemic heart disease was independently associated with acute decompensation. Seventy‐eight patients (18%) developed hepatocellular carcinoma or extrahepatic cancers during follow‐up (51 and 27, respectively). Conclusion: Patients with compensated cirrhosis due to NAFLD are at high risk of severe liver complications, such as the development of acute decompensation, in a relative short follow‐up time. This population is at high risk of hepatic and extrahepatic cancers.
Heat transport in a sandwiched set‐up of MHD Newtonian–Casson–Newtonian fluids through a porous medium
Authors: Raje Ankush , Bhise Ashlesha A.
Published: September 2022

The time‐dependent sandwiched flow of immiscible fluids plays a vital role in petroleum extraction, bio‐fluid mechanics, blood rheology, and so forth. Owing to their applications, the present study focuses on exploring the unsteady flow of Casson fluid through porous media sandwiched between Newtonian fluids in the channel. The channel is placed in the horizontal position, wherein the Casson fluid layer is in the central region, and Newtonian fluids are in the upper and lower regions. The governing system of equations is numerically solved using the finite difference method to obtain flow and heat transfer profiles. The influence of vital parameters on flow and heat transfer is discussed. Furthermore, the parameters of engineering interest, that is, fluid flow rate, skin friction, and Nusselt number are also analyzed in this study.
Evaluation of cardiomyopathy with two‐dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography in limb‐girdle muscular dystrophy type 2A and 2B
Authors: Akyüz Abdurrahman , Çap Murat , Varsak Süleyman , Işık Ferhat , Turken Askeri , Taştan Ercan , Baysal Erkan
Published: September 2022

Purpose

Cardiac involvement in limb‐girdle muscular dystrophy (LGMD)2A and LGMD2B, the most common subgroups of LGMD, is controversial. Our study aims to determine whether myocardial dysfunction develops in LGMD2A and LGMD2B patients.

Methods

The study included 16 LGMD2A, 12 LGMD2B patients, and 48 healthy individuals. Comparisons included demographic, clinical, and laboratory parameters of LGMD2A and LGMD2B subgroups and traditional echocardiography and two‐dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography (2D‐STE) parameters with the normal population.

Results

The median age was 33 (22–39 interquartile range [IQR]) in the LGMD2A group, 33 (27–38 IQR) in the LGMD2B group, and 28 (25–35 IQR) in the control group. The left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction of both LGMD2A and LGMD2B groups was similar to the control group (p = 0.296 and p = 0.918). Apical 4‐chamber longitudinal strain (LS), Apical 2‐chamber LS, Apical 3‐chamber LS, left ventricular global longitudinal strain (LVGLS)‐mid‐myocardial, LVGLS‐endocardium, and LVGLS‐epicardium were lower (less negative) in the LGMD2B group compared to the control group (p = 0.006, p = 0.001, p < 0.001, p < 0.001, p < 0.001, and p < 0.001, respectively).

Conclusion

LV 2D‐STE parameters of LGMD2A patients were similar to the control group, while they decreased significantly (less negative) in LGMD2B patients, indicating that LV subclinical myocardial dysfunction may develop in LGMD2B patients.
Understanding PrEP decision making among pregnant women in Lilongwe, Malawi: A mixed‐methods study
Authors: Hill Lauren M. , Golin Carol E. , Saidi Friday , Phanga Twambilile , Tseka Jennifer , Young Alinda , Pearce Lisa D. , Maman Suzanne , Chi Benjamin H. , Mutale Wilbroad
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Pre‐exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a promising tool for HIV prevention during pregnancy. With increasing rollout in antenatal settings, counselling strategies to help pregnant women make appropriate decisions about PrEP use are needed. Understanding women's motivations and concerns for PrEP use—and how these inform their decision making and feelings about the decision to start PrEP—are critical to inform these strategies.

Methods

We conducted a convergent mixed‐methods study from June 2020 to June 2021 in the context of a PrEP adherence support trial among HIV‐negative pregnant women in Lilongwe, Malawi. Two hundred women completed a survey reporting their motivations and concerns about PrEP use, and their feelings about the decision to start PrEP (Decisional Regret Scale). Thirty women completed in‐depth interviews to better understand the decision‐making process, including motivations and concerns weighed in women's decision to use PrEP. Analyses comprised descriptive and bivariate statistics, thematic qualitative analysis, and integration of quantitative and qualitative results.

Results

Women initiating PrEP during pregnancy were highly motivated to obtain HIV protection for themselves and their unborn child, often due to perceived HIV risk connoted by a recent sexually transmitted infection and/or concerns about partner non‐monogamy. These motivations prevailed despite some concerns about safety and side effects, anticipated stigmatization, and concerns about adherence burden and pill attributes. Many women had informed their partner of their decision to use PrEP yet few felt their decision was contingent upon partner approval. Most women felt positively about the decision to start PrEP (mean decisional regret = 1.2 out of 5), but those with a greater number of concerns reported greater decisional regret (B = 0.036; p = 0.005). Furthermore, women who were specifically concerned about partner disclosure, who disliked pills or who had no perceived HIV risk reported greater decisional regret.

Conclusions

Pregnant women were strongly motivated by the promise of HIV protection offered by PrEP and accepted it despite diverse concerns. A shared decision‐making approach that centres pregnant women and offers partner involvement may help identify and address initial concerns about PrEP use and support prevention‐effective use of PrEP during this important period.
Cohen syndrome in two patients from China
Authors: Gong Jiaoe , Zhang Lily , Long Yanwei , Xiao Bo , Long Hongyu
Published: September 2022

Background

Cohen syndrome (CS; OMIM 216550) is a rare syndrome with evident clinical heterogeneity. The diverse phenotype comprises early‐onset hypotonia and developmental delays, intellectual disabilities, microcephaly, hypermobile joints, neutropenia, myopia, and characteristic facial features. The disease is rarely reported. Vacuolar Protein Sorting 13 Homolog B (VPS13B; OMIM 607817) is the only causative gene of CS.

Methods

Blood samples sourced from both siblings and parents were sent to identify mutations by trio‐WES, and changes in the patient's condition were understood through consultation data and follow‐up.

Results

We reported two siblings affected by developmental delay, microcephaly, intellectual disability, and facial features. The siblings' WES detected compound heterozygous variants in the exon region of VPS13B (NM_017890): c.9337A>T and c.8551A>C.

Conclusion

Two individuals were diagnosed with CS by genetic testing and clinical features. In addition, we conduct a brief review of the reports on the Chinese population with CS and reinforce the understanding of the correlation between genotype–phenotype.
Dual‐band full‐duplex antenna with high isolation using differential fed and dual‐polarization
Authors: Prasad D. Venkata Siva , Singh Harsh V. , Tripathi Shrivishal , Paltani Punya P.
Published: September 2022

This study proposes a new design approach for a dual‐band full‐duplex antenna to achieve high interport isolation using the differential fed technique. It consists of a single radiating patch, a differential fedline, and a direct fedline. A slotline‐based balun is used in the design to implement the differential fed, which offers minimum phase and magnitude imbalances to the patch of the antenna. The differential fed and direct‐fed lines are orthogonally connected to the radiating patch to realize dual polarization. Both the dual‐polarization and differential fed techniques help to improve the interport isolation of the antenna. It offers an interport isolation of more than 51 and 53 dB over the entire lower and higher operating bands, resonating at 3.22 and 4.1 GHz with 84 and 110 MHz bandwidths. To validate the proposed antenna, a prototype has been fabricated on an FR‐4 substrate with the dimensions of (1.79 × 1.79 × 0.017)λg (λg is the guided wavelength in the substrate at the lower frequency f1), with measured results consistent well with simulations. The far‐field measurement exhibits that the proposed antenna provides a unidirectional broadside radiation pattern and achieves a minimum cross‐polarization of less than −38 dB in all directions and less than −42 dB in the direction of the main lobe in both E‐ and H‐planes at the resonant frequencies. The antenna has insignificant backward radiation with the front‐to‐back ratio 20 dB when port1 is active and the front‐to‐back ratio 30 dB when port2 is active. Moreover, the proposed antenna design is simple and easy to fabricate as the differential fed is implemented using the slotline‐based balun within the same general purpose FR‐4 substrate layer. This eliminates the need for any additional and separate circuits for differential fed and minimizes the overall volume of the antenna.
Terahertz groove gap waveguide leaky wave antenna
Authors: Hongjian Wang , Min Yi , Minzheng Ma
Published: September 2022

A groove gap waveguide (GGW) leaky wave antenna with a wide scan angle in the terahertz (THz) band (430–560 GHz) is presented in this study. The unnecessary tight contact between the top plate and pins of the GGW makes it easy for the fine fabrication and assembly of this THz antenna. Scanning of pointing directions with frequency, together with the low side‐lobe level (SLL), is designed for the pins' heights and intervals as well as the groove cavity width. Measurement results of S11 parameters remain about −20 dB, besides, the antenna scan angle range is 15o within 430–560 GHz, and the gains are also above 15 dB within that working frequency bands.
Realistic modeling of cemented granular materials with a lattice spring model by developing a digital 3D reconstruction approach
Authors: Wei Xin‐Dong , Deng Zhi‐Qiang , Zhao Gao‐Feng
Published: September 2022

Three‐dimensional (3D) geometric reconstruction is a fundamental requirement to realistically predict the mechanical behavior of cemented granular materials (CGMs). In this work, a four‐phase geometric reconstruction method for CGMs, involving aggregate, cement, in‐between interfacial transition zone (ITZ), and void phases, is developed by using digital image processing techniques and an optimization algorithm. The reconstruction method includes four steps. (1) The planar outlines of aggregates are extracted from a two‐dimensional (2D) aggregate image (e.g., gravels, pebbles, and crushed stones) based on the image segmentation algorithm. (2) Through spatial geometric transformations on the acquired planar outlines, the 3D aggregates are generated, whose reliability is verified by comparison with those obtained by a 3D scanner. (3) According to the volume ratio of each phase, the initial four‐phase model is reconstructed by randomly placing aggregates into the user‐defined domain with considering the size distribution of aggregates, followed by the generation of the ITZ represented by their surrounding minimum envelope surface, and the insertion of voids in the rest cement phase. (4) The final realistic CGM is reconstructed by optimizing the spatial distribution of the void and cement phases based on a simulated annealing algorithm. Afterwards, the rationality of the reconstructed CGM is verified by comparing two‐point probability functions between the physical model and the reconstructed model. With the aid of a four‐dimensional lattice spring model (4D‐LSM), the feasibility of the reconstructed CGM to reproduce its mechanical behavior is demonstrated by numerical examples and a comparison with existing experimental or other numerical solutions.
Recent Advances in Fuel‐Driven Molecular Switches and Machines
Authors: Benny Renitta , Sahoo Diptiprava , George Ajith , De Soumen
Published: September 2022

The molecular switches and machines arena has entered a new phase in which molecular machines operate under out‐of‐equilibrium conditions using appropriate fuel. Unlike the equilibrium version, the dissipative off‐equilibrium machines necessitate only one stimulus input to complete each cycle and decrease chemical waste. Such a modus operandi would set significant steps towards mimicking the natural machines and may offer a platform for advancing new applications by providing temporal control. This review summarises the recent progress and blueprint of autonomous fuel‐driven off‐equilibrium molecular switches and machines.
Fear of progression and its associated factors in parents of children undergoing cancer treatment: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Yang Yiling , Zhang Yuwei , Liang Lichan , Liao Xiaomei , Meng Jiangnan , Cai Ruiqing , Ye Hongyu , Hu Jiamin , He Xiaofeng , Shi Lei
Published: September 2022

Objective

Fear of progression (FoP) is a common psychosocial problem among adult cancer patients, but data on parents of children undergoing cancer treatment are scarce. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of FoP in parents of children undergoing cancer treatment and explore the associated factors.

Methods

Overall, 285 parents of children undergoing cancer treatment were recruited from three general hospitals in China. FoP in the parents was assessed using the Chinese version of the Fear of Progression Questionnaire‐parent version (FoP‐Q‐SF/PR). Other questionnaires included the Self‐Compassion Scale, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Checklist‐Civilian Version, and items on socio‐demographic and medical characteristics. Pearson correlation and multiple linear regression analysis were used to identify factors associated with FoP.

Results

A total of 75.1% of the participants showed dysfunctional levels of FoP. The mean FoP‐Q‐SF/PR score was 39.98 (standard deviation = 9.18). Parental FoP was significantly associated with a shorter time since diagnosis, lower levels of self‐compassion, poor sleep quality, and severe posttraumatic stress symptoms (Adjusted R Squared = 0.369, F = 12.838, p < 0.01).

Conclusions

FoP is a frequently reported problem among parents of children undergoing cancer treatment. In this cohort, parents of children with a shorter time since cancer diagnosis were at higher risk of suffering from FoP. Interventions to enhance self‐compassion, improve sleep quality, and mitigate posttraumatic stress symptoms may help with the psychological adjustment and well‐being of parents whose children are undergoing cancer treatment.
The impact of prehabilitation interventions on affective and functional outcomes for young to midlife adult cancer patients: A systematic review
Authors: Scriney Aideen , Russell Amy , Loughney Lisa , Gallagher Pamela , Boran Lorraine
Published: September 2022

Objective

Cancer remains one of the most enduring health crises of the modern world. Prehabilitation is a relatively new intervention aimed at preparing individuals for the stresses associated with treatment from diagnosis. Prehabilitation can include exercise, psychological and nutrition‐based interventions. The present systematic review aimed to assess the efficacy of prehabilitation on affective and functional outcomes for young to midlife adult cancer patients (18–55 years). Outcomes of interest included prehabilitation programme composition, duration, mode of delivery and measures used to determine impact on affective and functional outcomes.

Methods

The following databases were searched with controlled and free text vocabulary; Psychological Information database (PsychINFO), Culmunated Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online (MEDLINE), Excerpta Medica Database (EMBASE) and Public MEDLINE (PubMed). Abstract and full‐text screening was conducted with a secondary reviewer and final texts were subject to risk of bias analysis.

Results

Thirteen texts were included at full‐text. These included data of 797 prehabilitation participants (mean age 53 years) and a large representation of female participants (71% average). Evidence was found for the efficacy of psychological prehabilitation for anxiety reduction. Prehabilitation did not significantly affect health related quality of life. Findings moderately supported the therapeutic validity of exercise prehabilitation for functional outcomes, both in terms of clinical and experimental improvement with respect to the quality of evidence. Variation between all prehabilitation types was observed. There was insufficient evidence to support the efficacy of psychological prehabilitation on stress, distress or depression.

Conclusion

Implications for future research are highlighted and then discussed with respect to this young to midlife age group.
Blocking Si‐Induced Visible Photoresponse in n‐MgxZn1–xO/p‐Si Heterojunction UV Photodetectors Using MgO Barrier Layer
Authors: Chetia Shantanu K. , Das Amit K. , Ajimsha Rohini S. , Banik Soma , Singh Rashmi , Padhi Partha S. , Sharma Tarun K. , Misra Pankaj
Published: September 2022

Photodetectors based on n‐Mg0.25Zn0.75O/p‐Si heterojunctions are not only suitable for integration with existing semiconductor technology, but also circumvent the difficulty of stable p‐type doping in MgxZn1–xO. However, the use of Si leads to photoresponse in the visible part of the light spectrum, which renders n‐MgxZn1–xO/p‐Si heterojunction devices unsuitable for visible blind UV photodetection. Herein, it is demonstrated that the visible photoresponse in the n‐Mg0.25Zn0.75O/p‐Si photodetectors can be significantly suppressed by inserting a thin interlayer of MgO at the heterojunction. The MgO layer serves as a blocking layer for the drift of photo‐excited electrons from p‐Si to n‐Mg0.25Zn0.75O, thereby limiting the visible photoresponse. It is found that on increasing the thickness of the MgO interlayer from 3 to 15 nm, the UV to visible rejection ratio increases from ≈25 to 200. This enhancement in the UV to visible rejection ratio demonstrates that n‐Mg0.25Zn0.75O/p‐Si heterojunction devices with MgO interlayer are promising for visible‐blind UV photodetection applications.
Defect Dynamics and Internal Quantum Efficiency Decay Resultant Ultraviolet C‐Band Light‐Emitting Diode Lifetime Performance
Authors: Zhang Jianping , Zhou Ling , Gao Ying , Lunev Alexander , Zhang Bin , Wu Shuai
Published: September 2022

The internal quantum efficiency (IQE) decay resultant lifetime performance of ultraviolet C‐band (UVC) light‐emitting diodes (LEDs) is investigated, and an LED lifetime model is deduced assuming that defect generation is the sole cause for IQE decay and the defect generation process is to maximize the entropy of the defects. The proposed model reveals that the lifetime of an LED is proportional to its radiative recombination coefficient and inversely proportional to the product of its initial nonradiative recombination coefficient and defect growth interest rate, thus providing explicit dependence of the lifetime on the LED junction temperature and current density. The model fits excellently well to full sets of lifetime measurement data, which were collected from UVC LEDs stressed at different currents and different ambient temperatures for 2500 up to ≈10 000 h. The sensitivity of the lifetime to the junction temperature and current density is revealed for some UVC LEDs. Using the model, a lifetime of ≈96 000 h is projected to maintain 70% of the initial optical output power for a UVC LED based on a stress test for ≈10 000 h.
α‐Asarone attenuates chronic sciatica by inhibiting peripheral sensitization and promoting neural repair
Authors: Zhang Di , Li Xin , Jing Bei , Chen Zhenni , Shi Huimei , Zheng Yachun , Chang Shiquan , Sun Jianxin , Zhao Guoping
Published: September 2022

This study explored the therapeutic effect of α‐asarone on chronic sciatica. Thirty‐two Sprague–Dawley (SD) rats were divided into four groups: the sham group, chronic constriction injury (CCI) group, pregabalin group, and α‐asarone group. Hot hyperalgesia was induced after the CCI operation, and α‐asarone was found to relieve chronic neuralgia. Furthermore, α‐asarone reduced IL1β, IL6, TNF‐α, CRP, and LPS levels and increased IL10 levels in serum. α‐Asarone decreased the protein levels of TRPA1, TRPM8, and TRPV1‐4 and the mRNA levels of TRPA1, TRPM8, TRPV1‐4, IL1β, and TNF‐α in dorsal root ganglion neurons. In the sciatic nerve, α‐asarone treatment reduced the number of inflammatory cells and promoted the proliferation of Schwann cells, favouring recovery of the nerve structure. In cellular experiments, LPS induced Schwann cell apoptosis via TLR4/p38MAPK signalling; α‐asarone attenuated LPS‐induced Schwann cell apoptosis by decreasing TLR4, p‐p38MAPK, cleaved‐caspase3, and cleaved‐caspase7 levels and increasing Bcl‐2 and Bcl‐xl expression. Overall, these findings suggest that α‐asarone relieves chronic sciatica by decreasing the levels of inflammatory factors, inhibiting peripheral sensitization, and favouring the repair of damaged nerves.
Multiwalled Carbon Nanotubes Decorated with Layered Double Hydroxides as Multifunctional Fillers for Polypropylene
Authors: Nagendra Baku , Leuteritz Andreas , Bhoje Gowd E.
Published: September 2022

The multiwalled carbon nanotubes (CNTs) decorated with exfoliated and fragmented layered double hydroxides (CNT‐LDH hybrids) were used as multifunctional nanofillers for isotactic polypropylene (iPP). Under similar experimental conditions, iPP/CNTs and iPP/LDH nanocomposites were also prepared. Compared to neat iPP, both CNT‐LDH hybrids and LDH showed effective nucleation ability for iPP. Hybrid CNT‐LDH fillers are found to improve the thermal stability and flame retardancy of iPP significantly even with minimum loadings (1 wt% CNTs + 1 wt% LDH) compared to the individual fillers. The highest 50 % weight loss temperature was observed for iPP/CNT‐LDH nanocomposites. The nanocomposite prepared with 2 wt% of CNT‐LDH hybrid fillers showed a reduction of heat release rate (HRR) of 59 %, which is much higher than the nanocomposites prepared with 2 wt% of CNTs (30.5 %) and 2 wt% of LDH (19 %). The limiting oxygen index value of iPP is 16.5 % and it increases to 23 % for iPP/CNT‐LDH nanocomposites. We have shown that the synergetic effect between CNTs and LDH can surpass individual nanofillers as effective flame retardants due to the capability of formation of a jammed network in the polymer matrix and effective char formation to restrict the transport of volatile compounds during the burning of the polymer.
Synthesis and QSAR Analysis of Diaryl Ethers and Their Analogues as Potential Antiviral Agents
Authors: Nikolova Ivanka , Slavchev Ivaylo , Zagranyarska Irena , Nikolova Nadya , Vilhelmova Neli , Stoyanova Adelina , Grozdanov Petar , Mukova Lucia , Galabov Angel S. , Lessigiarska Iglika , Tsakovska Ivanka , Dobrikov Georgi M.
Published: September 2022

A series of 42 diarylethers and their analogues were synthesized. All compounds were tested in vitro against six viruses. Two diarylethers in this series demonstrated selective and remarkable activity toward Human Coronavirus OC43 and Human Adenovirus 5 (SI 97.4 and 99.7, respectively). QSARs for the investigated antiviral activities were explored. The analysis was based on a large library of 113 diarylethers and their analogues comprising the compounds reported in this paper, as well as compounds previously synthesized and tested by us. Statistically reliable regression and discriminant models were derived which revealed structural and physicochemical features of the compounds important for the antiviral activities. These models may be used as guidance for synthesis of lead compounds with promising antiviral activity toward the investigated viruses.
Take a vacation: You really need it!
Authors: Hodges Dawn Z.
Published: September 2022

For two and a half years, the world has been held hostage by the COVID‐19 pandemic. For many of us, this period has been the most stressful years of our lives.
Assessing owners' readiness to change their behaviour to address their companion animal's obesity
Authors: Sutherland Katja A. , Coe Jason B. , O'Sullivan Terri L.
Published: September 2022

Background

Owner behaviour change in relation to management is critical for successful pet weight loss. The stages of change (SOC) can be used to conceptualise the process of intentional behaviour change. Clients may be more likely to make successful changes when practitioners use communication techniques appropriate for a client's current stage. The objective of this cross‐sectional study was to assess pet owners’ SOC in relation to managing the weight of their overweight or obese pet.

Methods

An online questionnaire targeting dog and cat owners was distributed via snowball sampling. A total of 532 questionnaires were included in the analysis. Of these, 153 participants (28.8%) self‐identified their pet's body condition score (BCS) as greater than 5 (on a nine‐point scale). An adapted University of Rhode Island Change Assessment scale was completed by 119 of these participants (77.8%) to assess their readiness to change related to managing their overweight or obese pet.

Results

Most participants were scored in the precontemplation (52.1%) and contemplation (42%) stages, where readiness to change is low. Owner assessments likely resulted in underestimation of pets’ BCS.

Conclusion

The results offer preliminary insight into the SOC of owners who identify their pets as overweight or obese. Developing tools to assess and understand owners’ readiness to change may be useful in informing veterinary professionals’ communication approaches when engaging in weight management conversations.
Use of low‐dose quetiapine increases the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events: results from a nationwide active comparator‐controlled cohort study
Authors: Højlund Mikkel , Andersen Kjeld , Ernst Martin T. , Correll Christoph U. , Hallas Jesper
Published: September 2022

At standard doses used for schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, quetiapine has been associated with weight gain and increased levels of triglycerides, to­tal cholesterol and low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, which are risk factors for cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. However, this drug is also commonly used off‐label at low doses for anxiolytic or hypnotic purposes, and its cardiovascular safety at these doses is unknown. We aimed to assess the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events with use of low‐dose quetiapine compared to use of Z‐drug hypnotics in a nationwide, active comparator‐controlled cohort study. The cohort included new users of either drugs in Denmark from 2003 to 2017, aged 18‐85 years, without history of ischemic stroke, myocardial infarction, cancer, and severe mental illness. The main outcome was the occurrence of major adverse cardiovascular events, defined as non‐fatal myocardial infarction or ischemic stroke, or death from cardiovascular causes. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) were used as an alternative comparator in sensitivity analyses. Altogether, we compared 60,566 low‐dose quetiapine users with 454,567 Z‐drug users, followed for 890,198 person‐years in intent‐to‐treat analysis, and 330,334 person‐years in as‐treated analysis. In intention‐to‐treat analysis, low‐dose quetiapine was associated with an increased risk of major adverse cardiovascular events (adjusted hazard ratio, aHR=1.13, 95% CI: 1.02‐1.24, p=0.014) and cardiovascular death (aHR=1.26, 95% CI: 1.11‐1.43, p<0.001). In as‐treated analysis, continuous low‐dose quetiapine use was associated with increased risk of major adverse cardiovascular events (aHR=1.52, 95% CI: 1.35‐1.70, p<0.001), non‐fatal ischemic stroke (aHR=1.37, 95% CI: 1.13‐1.68, p=0.002) and cardiovascular death (aHR=1.90, 95% CI: 1.64‐2.19, p<0.001). The risk of major adverse cardiovascular events was greater in women (aHR=1.28, p=0.02) and those aged ≥65 years at initiation (aHR=1.24, p<0.001). Compared to SSRIs, low‐dose quetiapine use was associated with an increased risk of major adverse cardiovascular events (aHR=1.42, p<0.001), non‐fatal ischemic stroke (aHR=1.27, p=0.0028) and cardiovascular death (aHR=1.72, p<0.001). So, we conclude that the use of low‐dose quetiapine is associated with an increased risk of major adverse cardiovascular events, especially in women and the elderly. On the basis of these findings, we suggest that use of off‐label low‐dose quetiapine for sedative or hypnotic purposes should be discouraged.
Privacy-Preserving Techniques for Trustworthy Data Sharing: Opportunities and Challenges for Future Research
Authors: Dutkiewicz Lidia , Miadzvetskaya Yuliya , Ofe Hosea , Barnett Alan , Helminger Lukas , Lindstaedt Stefanie , Trügler Andreas
Published: September 2022

One of the foundations of data sharing in the European Union (EU) is trust, especially in view of the advancing digitalization and recent developments with respect to European Data Spaces. In this chapter, we argue that privacy-preserving techniques, such as multi-party computation and fully homomorphic encryption, can play a positive role in enhancing trust in data sharing transactions. We therefore focus on an interdisciplinary perspective on how privacy-preserving techniques can facilitate trustworthy data sharing. We start with introducing the legal landscape of data sharing in the EU. Then, we discuss the different functions of third-party intermediaries, namely, data marketplaces. Before giving a legal perspective on privacy-preserving techniques for enhancing trust in data sharing, we briefly touch upon the Data Governance Act (DGA) proposal with relation to trust and its intersection with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). We continue with an overview on the technical aspects of privacy-preserving methods in the later part, where we focus on methods based on cryptography (such as homomorphic encryption, multi-party computation, private set intersection) and link them to smart contracts. We discuss the main principles behind these methods and highlight the open challenges with respect to privacy, performance bottlenecks, and a more widespread application of privacy-preserving analytics. Finally, we suggest directions for future research by highlighting that the mutual understanding of legal frameworks and technical capabilities will form an essential building block of sustainable and secure data sharing in the future
Common European Data Spaces: Challenges and Opportunities
Authors: Scerri Simon , Tuikka Tuomo , de Vallejo Irene Lopez , Curry Edward
Published: September 2022

Common European data sharing spaces are essential for the implementation of the European digital market. This chapter addresses the challenges and opportunities of Data Spaces identified by the Big Data Value Association community. It brings forward five independent goals, convergence, experimentation, standardization, deployment, and awareness, each targeted toward specific stakeholders in the data sharing ecosystem and presents a timeframe when the goals should take place. Furthermore, we have proposed actions based on BDVA recommendations and mapped them over the five goals.
Connecting Data Spaces and Data Marketplaces and the Progress Toward the European Single Digital Market with Open-Source Software
Authors: Zappa Achille , Le Chi-Hung , Serrano Martín , Curry Edward
Published: September 2022

In this book chapter, recent advances in the development and implementation of open-source software technologies and information management systems to support the progression of the data economy by means of data operations and data offering descriptions are introduced. The management of controlled registries, mapping of information using metadata aggregation, interfaces among components, links of data and actors, discovery and retrieval of data, compiling smart contracts, and other core operations are introduced. This chapter contributes to the state of the art by providing the definition, creation, and collection of data-driven marketplaces that, by design, look at sharing and exchanging data using a common description framework called i3-MARKET. i3-MARKET’s main design objectives are to support the sharing data assets, execute operations, and provide API services and generally all the security-related functionalities relying on data details, credentials, contracts, and pricing. i3-MARKET also uses a sharing semantic model to facilitate the work with people in improving and maintaining the models for the present and future. The i3-MARKET described in the chapter introduces the concept of a backplane architecture as a support tool that aims to innovate the data market industry providing solutions and support in developing building blocks to overcome the barriers to interoperable and integrative data using trusted, federated, and decentralized software components.
De Sitter static black ring in large D membrane paradigm at the second order
Authors: Mandlik Mangesh
Published: September 2022

Abstract

It was shown in [1] that the effective stationary membrane equations from the large D membrane paradigm at the first order admit black ring solutions in flat and AdS cases, but the de Sitter solution obtained in [2] lies outside the domain of their applicability. In this short note the static de Sitter black ring is obtained from the second order membrane paradigm, and it satisfies the equilibrium condition for the thin ring solution of [2]. This provides a segue into the stationary black rings at the second order.