bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Advance Care Planning and End-Of-Life Communications: Practical Tips for Oncology Advanced Practitioners
Authors: Goswami, DNP, FNP-C, AOCNP Poonam
Published: January 2021

Advance care planning discussions ensure patients’ values and goals of care, including the freedom to choose their place of death, are respected. The benefits of advance care planning and early end-of-life care discussions are often delayed, as these discussions are not initiated early in patients’ cancer trajectories. As a result, patients’ wishes often remain unknown until the last phase of their life. Evidence suggests that many patients inappropriately receive aggressive treatment near the end of life, which leads to higher resource utilization, decreased quality of life, and increased cost. The purpose of this article is to provide practical tips to the oncology advanced practitioner on initiating advance care planning and end-of-life care discussions with patients and their families or caregivers.
Âges de vie, genre et temporalités.
Réflexions historiques et sociologiques
Authors: Charles Aline , Charton Laurence
Published: January 2021

Cadre de la recherche: Longtemps menées
en parallèle, les études sur les âges de vie et sur le genre convergent
davantage depuis quelques années, mais laissent encore de vastes territoires à
découvert. Certaines analyses traitent encore le sexe comme une simple variable
qui n’exige pas de problématisation. D’autres, perdent encore de vue le fait que
grandir et vieillir génèrent des catégories et des
trajectoires qui sont le résultat d’interactions de sexe et
d’âge. L’arrimage entre genre et âge reste
ainsi encore à être resserré.

Objectifs: L’article introductif du
numéro « Âges de vie, genre et temporalités sociales » propose d’explorer les
interactions entre rapports d’âge et de genre en examinant les constructions
sexuées des âges et les trajectoires de vie structurées par le genre.

Méthodologie: Sont recensées dans cet
article des études de sociologues et d’historien.ne.s explorant les arrimages
genre/âge.

Résultats: Les articles présentés
contribuent à montrer à quel point les rapports de genre et d’âge s’imbriquent
et interagissent dans l’élaboration des inégalités sociales durant toute la vie
des individus. Ils participent également à remettre en question la hiérarchie
sociale qui se fonderait « mécaniquement » sur le genre et certains marqueurs
liés à l’âge.

Conclusions: L’analyse conjointe des
rapports de genre et d’âge progresse, mais lentement et demeure encore dans
l’angle mort des perspectives intersectionnelles. Si les recherches actuelles
reconnaissent désormais le genre et l’âge comme des systèmes qui interagissent
constamment, elles abordent encore trop rarement les rapports de pouvoir et les
inégalités cumulatives qu’ils génèrent.

Contribution: Cet article introductif
ouvre de nouvelles perspectives de recherches, tant au regard des processus
genrés favorisant le développement de caractéristiques physiques sexuées, que
des codes sociaux dominants qui façonnent les expériences et temporalités
hétéronormatives.
O jogo como prática de saúde
Authors: Vasconcellos Marcelo Simão de , Carvalho Flávia Garcia de , Araujo Inesita Soares de
Published: January 2021

O livro O jogo como prática de saúde é resultado de estudos iniciados em 2009 que buscaram articular três campos do conhecimento: a saúde, a comunicação e os jogos. Marcelo Simão de Vasconcellos, Flávia Garcia de Carvalho e Inesita Soares de Araujo nos trazem uma proposta inovadora: valorizar os jogos como prática humana e social e considerar seu potencial criativo para integrá-los às práticas de saúde. O ineditismo fez do livro o primeiro da coleção Fazer Saúde, que vem se somar às outras sete da Editora Fiocruz – Antropologia e Saúde; Bioética e Saúde; Criança, Mulher e Saúde; História e Saúde; Loucura e Civilização; Saúde dos Povos Indígenas; e Temas em Saúde. Os autores privilegiam a análise dos jogos digitais, amplamente disseminados nas sociedades contemporâneas, mas pouco estudados além de duas categorias – a de jogos educativos e a de instrumento de divulgação científica. Para isso, descrevem e discutem experiências como o uso de newgames sobre epidemias; os jogos voltados para grupos que vivenciam doenças de difícil abordagem, como crianças com Síndrome de Down ou autismo; e outros desenvolvidos pra pessoas idosas com o objetivo de reduzir o risco de Alzheimer. A discussão vai além do uso terapêutico dos jogos: trata da sua inserção em contextos sociais e culturais mais amplos e do envolvimento na experiência lúdica de grupos de referência.
Enhanced photocurrent in bimetallic/TiO2 nanotube composite structures
Authors: Han Di-Yi , Gu Yang , Hu Tao-Zheng , Dong Wen , Ni Ya-Xian ,   Soochow College, Soochow University, Suzhou 215006, China,   School of Physical Science and Technology, Soochow University, Suzhou 215006, China
Published: January 2021

In recent years, due to the shortage of fossil energy and environmental pollution, the harvesting and conversion of solar energy using semiconductors has attracted more and more attention. Among many kinds of traditional semiconductor photocatalysts, the titanium dioxide (TiO2) has become one of the most popular semiconductor photocatalysts because of its low cost, good stability and environmental friendliness. However, TiO2 has a relatively wide band gap (i.e., 3.2 eV for anatase and 3.0 eV for rutile), which can only absorb ultraviolet light with a wavelength less than 387 nm, and has a low utilization rate of sunlight. Moreover, the photo-generated electron-hole pairs in the system of TiO2 film and particle are easy to recombine, which makes the photocatalytic efficiency of the material relatively low. In order to solve these problems, TiO2 structure with porous (such as nanotube) is used to restrain the recombination of photo-generated electron-hole pairs due to its large specific surface area and good charge transfer characteristics, thereby improving its photocatalytic efficiency. In addition to changing the structure of traditional semiconductor materials, using the surface plasmon resonance effect of metal micro-nano structures to improve its photoelectric conversion efficiency has many potential applications in the fields of photovoltaic, photocatalysis and photoelectric detection. In this paper, we prepare different metallic nanoparticles loaded TiO2 nanotube composite structures by atomic layer deposition method and electron beam thermal evaporation technology and investigate the photocatalytic properties of the composite structures. It is shown that comparing with the pure TiO2 nanotubes, the photocurrent of TiO2 nanotubes loaded with Au nanoparticles increases by about 400% under 568 nm visible light irradiation; the photocurrent of TiO2 nanotubes loaded with Al nanoparticles increases by about 50% under 365 nm ultraviolet (UV) irradiation; the photocurrent of TiO2 nanotubes loaded with bimetallic Au and Al nanoparticles increases by about 50% in the whole UV-visible light region: it is significantly enhanced. Based on the fact that the surface plasmon resonance frequency of Au and Al nanoparticles are complementary, not only is the optical absorption of TiO2 nanotubes enhanced and broadened, but also the photocurrent is enhanced from ultraviolet to visible light. We believe that these results will contribute to the further development of photocurrent in semiconductor nanotubes.
Optogenetic control of PRC1 reveals its role in chromosome alignment on the spindle by overlap length-dependent forces
Authors: Jagrić Mihaela , Risteski Patrik , Martinčić Jelena , Milas Ana , Tolić Iva M
Published: January 2021

During metaphase, chromosome position at the spindle equator is regulated by the forces exerted by kinetochore microtubules and polar ejection forces. However, the role of forces arising from mechanical coupling of sister kinetochore fibers with bridging fibers in chromosome alignment is unknown. Here, we develop an optogenetic approach for acute removal of PRC1 to partially disassemble bridging fibers and show that they promote chromosome alignment. Tracking of the plus-end protein EB3 revealed longer antiparallel overlaps of bridging microtubules upon PRC1 removal, which was accompanied by misaligned and lagging kinetochores. Kif4A/kinesin-4 and Kif18A/kinesin-8 were found within the bridging fiber and largely lost upon PRC1 removal, suggesting that these proteins regulate the overlap length of bridging microtubules. We propose that PRC1-mediated crosslinking of bridging microtubules and recruitment of kinesins to the bridging fiber promote chromosome alignment by overlap length-dependent forces transmitted to the associated kinetochore fibers.
Structural basis for transcription complex disruption by the Mfd translocase
Authors: Kang Jin Young , Llewellyn Eliza , Chen James , Olinares Paul Dominic B , Brewer Joshua , Chait Brian T , Campbell Elizabeth A , Darst Seth A
Published: January 2021

Transcription-coupled repair (TCR) is a sub-pathway of nucleotide excision repair (NER) that preferentially removes lesions from the template-strand (t-strand) that stall RNA polymerase (RNAP) elongation complexes (ECs). Mfd mediates TCR in bacteria by removing the stalled RNAP concealing the lesion and recruiting Uvr(A)BC. We used cryo-electron microscopy to visualize Mfd engaging with a stalled EC and attempting to dislodge the RNAP. We visualized seven distinct Mfd-EC complexes in both ATP and ADP-bound states. The structures explain how Mfd is remodeled from its repressed conformation, how the UvrA-interacting surface of Mfd is hidden during most of the remodeling process to prevent premature engagement with the NER pathway, how Mfd alters the RNAP conformation to facilitate disassembly, and how Mfd forms a processive translocation complex after dislodging the RNAP. Our results reveal an elaborate mechanism for how Mfd kinetically discriminates paused from stalled ECs and disassembles stalled ECs to initiate TCR.
Scleraxis-lineage cell depletion improves tendon healing and disrupts adult tendon homeostasis
Authors: Best Katherine T , Korcari Antonion , Mora Keshia E , Nichols Anne EC , Muscat Samantha N , Knapp Emma , Buckley Mark R , Loiselle Alayna E
Published: January 2021

Despite the requirement forScleraxis-lineage (ScxLin) cells during tendon development, the function of ScxLincells during adult tendon repair, post-natal growth, and adult homeostasis have not been defined. Therefore, we inducibly depleted ScxLincells (ScxLinDTR) prior to tendon injury and repair surgery and hypothesized that ScxLinDTRmice would exhibit functionally deficient healing compared to wild-type littermates. Surprisingly, depletion of ScxLincells resulted in increased biomechanical properties without impairments in gliding function at 28 days post-repair, indicative of regeneration. RNA sequencing of day 28 post-repair tendons highlighted differences in matrix-related genes, cell motility, cytoskeletal organization, and metabolism. We also utilized ScxLinDTRmice to define the effects on post-natal tendon growth and adult tendon homeostasis and discovered that adult ScxLincell depletion resulted in altered tendon collagen fibril diameter, density, and dispersion. Collectively, these findings enhance our fundamental understanding of tendon cell localization, function, and fate during healing, growth, and homeostasis.
Runx2-Twist1 interaction coordinates cranial neural crest guidance of soft palate myogenesis
Authors: Han Xia , Feng Jifan , Guo Tingwei , Loh Yong-Hwee Eddie , Yuan Yuan , Ho Thach-Vu , Cho Courtney Kyeong , Li Jingyuan , Jing Junjun , Janeckova Eva , He Jinzhi , Pei Fei , Bi Jing , Song Brian , Chai Yang
Published: January 2021

Cranial neural crest (CNC) cells give rise to bone, cartilage, tendons, and ligaments of the vertebrate craniofacial musculoskeletal complex, as well as regulate mesoderm-derived craniofacial muscle development through cell-cell interactions. Using the mouse soft palate as a model, we performed an unbiased single-cell RNA-seq analysis to investigate the heterogeneity and lineage commitment of CNC derivatives during craniofacial muscle development. We show that Runx2, a known osteogenic regulator, is expressed in the CNC-derived perimysial and progenitor populations. Loss of Runx2 in CNC-derivatives results in reduced expression of perimysial markers (Aldh1a2 and Hic1) as well as soft palate muscle defects in Osr2-Cre;Runx2fl/fl mice. We further reveal that Runx2 maintains perimysial marker expression through suppressing Twist1, and that myogenesis is restored in Osr2-Cre;Runx2fl/fl;Twist1fl/+ mice. Collectively, our findings highlight the roles of Runx2, Twist1, and their interaction in regulating the fate of CNC-derived cells as they guide craniofacial muscle development through cell-cell interactions.
Exogenous melatonin improves growth in hulless barley seedlings under cold stress by influencing the expression rhythms of circadian clock genes
Authors: Chang Tianliang , Zhao Yi , He Hongyan , Xi Qianqian , Fu Jiayi , Zhao Yuwei
Published: January 2021

Background

Melatonin is a hormone substance that exists in various living organisms. Since it was discovered in the pineal gland of cattle in 1956, the function of melatonin in animals has been roughly clarified. Nevertheless, in plants, the research on melatonin is still insufficient. Hulless barley (Hordeum vulgare L. var. nudum hook. f.) is a crop that originates from cultivated barley in the east, usually grown on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, becoming the most important food crop in this area. Although the genome and transcriptome research of highland barley has gradually increased recently years, there are still many problems about how hulless barley adapts to the cold climate of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau.

Methods

In this study, we set three temperature conditions 25°C, 15°C, 5°C hulless barley seedlings, and at the same time soaked the hulless barley seeds with a 1 µM melatonin solution for 12 hours before the hulless barley seeds germinated. Afterwards, the growth and physiological indicators of hulless barley seedlings under different treatment conditions were determined. Meanwhile, the qRT-PCR method was used to determine the transcription level of the hulless barley circadian clock genes under different treatment conditions under continuous light conditions.

Results

The results showed the possible mechanism by which melatonin pretreatment can promote the growth of hulless barley under cold stress conditions by studying the effect of melatonin on the rhythm of the circadian clock system and some physiological indicators. The results revealed that the application of 1 µM melatonin could alleviate the growth inhibition of hulless barley seedlings caused by cold stress. In addition, exogenous melatonin could also restore the circadian rhythmic oscillation of circadian clock genes, such as HvCCA1 and HvTOC1, whose circadian rhythmic phenotypes were lost due to environmental cold stress. Additionally, the results confirmed that exogenous melatonin even reduced the accumulation of key physiological indicators under cold stress, including malondialdehyde and soluble sugars.

Discussion

Overall, these findings revealed an important mechanism that exogenous melatonin alleviated the inhibition of plant vegetative growths either by restoring the disrupted circadian rhythmic expression oscillations of clock genes, or by regulating the accumulation profiles of pivotal physiological indicators under cold stress.
Pseudomonas chlororaphis PA23 metabolites protect against protozoan grazing by the predator Acanthamoeba castellanii
Authors: Ghergab Akrm , Selin Carrie , Tanner Jennifer , Brassinga Ann Karen , Dekievit Teresa
Published: January 2021

Background

Pseudomonas chlororaphis strain PA23 is a biocontrol agent that is able to protect canola against the pathogenic fungus Sclerotinia sclerotiorum. This bacterium secretes a number of metabolites that contribute to fungal antagonism, including pyrrolnitrin (PRN), phenazine (PHZ), hydrogen cyanide (HCN) and degradative enzymes. In order to be successful, a biocontrol agent must be able to persist in the environment and avoid the threat of grazing predators. The focus of the current study was to investigate whether PA23 is able to resist grazing by the protozoan predator Acanthamoeba castellanii (Ac) and to define the role of bacterial metabolites in the PA23-Ac interaction.

Methods

Ac was co-cultured with PA23 WT and a panel of derivative strains for a period of 15 days, and bacteria and amoebae were enumerated on days 1, 5, 10 and 15. Ac was subsequently incubated in the presence of purified PRN, PHZ, and KCN and viability was assessed at 24, 48 and 72 h. Chemotactic assays were conducted to assess whether PA23 compounds exhibit repellent or attractant properties towards Ac. Finally, PA23 grown in the presence and absence of amoebae was subject to phenotypic characterization and gene expression analyses.

Results

PRN, PHZ and HCN were found to contribute to PA23 toxicity towards Ac trophozoites, either by killing or inducing cyst formation. This is the first report of PHZ-mediated toxicity towards amoebae. In chemotaxis assays, amoebae preferentially migrated towards regulatory mutants devoid of extracellular metabolite production as well as a PRN mutant, indicating this antibiotic has repellent properties. Co-culturing of bacteria with amoebae led to elevated expression of the PA23 phzI/phzR quorum-sensing (QS) genes and phzA and prnA, which are under QS control. PHZ and PRN levels were similarly increased in Ac co-cultures, suggesting that PA23 can respond to predator cues and upregulate expression of toxins accordingly.

Conclusions

PA23 compounds including PRN, PHZ and HCN exhibited both toxic and repellent effects on Ac. Co-culturing of bacteria and amoebae lead to changes in bacterial gene expression and secondary metabolite production, suggesting that PA23 can sense the presence of these would-be predators and adjust its physiology in response.
Role of Different Volumes and Dilutions of Intraperitoneal Lignocaine Instillation on Postoperative Morbidity Following Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy : A Randomised Control Trial
Authors: Singh Varun Kumar , Batool Sofia , Chettri Babita , Nishant Kumar , Ahmad Wali
Published: January 2021

Introduction: Even though Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy (LC) is far less traumatic compared to open cholecystectomy, it is still associated with considerable postoperative pain. Apart from routine analgesics, several attempts have been made to establish intraperitoneal analgesia as a useful perioperative pain relief modality. Aim: To determine the optimal concentration (or dilution) and volume of intraperitoneal lignocaine among three preparations of 100 mg lignocaine for postoperative analgesia after LC. Materials and Methods: Study was designed as a randomised controlled, double blinded study. Patients undergoing elective LC for symptomatic cholelithiasis were included in the study. Patients (n=105) were randomised into three groups. Group A received 5 mL 2% lignocaine in 5 mL normal saline (100 mg/10 mL=10 mL solution of 1% lignocaine). Group B received 5 mL 2% lignocaine in 100 mL of normal saline (100 mg/100 mL=100 mL solution of 0.1% lignocaine). Group C received 5 mL 2% lignocaine in 500 mL normal saline (100 mg/500 mL=500 mL solution of 0.02% lignocaine). Three groups were compared for postoperative pain using Visual Analog Score (VAS), requirement of rescue analgesia, nausea and vomiting, vital parameters (heart rate, respiratory rate, mean arterial pressure, transcutaneous saturation) and hospital stay. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) was used to compare mean and χ2 test was used to compare categorical data. Results: The mean VAS of group B (100 mg lignocaine in 100 mL of normal saline) was significantly lower than the overall mean VAS at different postoperative time intervals, and consistently lower than those of groups A and C. The study found a consistent (r=0.15 to 0.33) and significant (p<0.05 at all-time intervals) positive correlation between pain and duration of surgery. Demand for rescue analgesia was significantly higher in group A. Pulse rate was least in all postoperative time and significantly lower at 4th hour. The difference in mean arterial pressures, respiratory rate and transcutaneous saturation among the three groups was not significant statistically. Nausea and vomiting were uncommon. Conclusion: The study concluded that for a total dose of 100 mg lignocaine, 100 mL solution is more effective compared to 10 mL or 500 mL solution.
Predictive Value of First Trimester Measurement of Adiponectin and 1,5 Anhydroglucitol in Diagnosis of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Salem Merhan M. , El-Sokary Amal A. , Hazzaa Sahar M. , El-Gharib Mohamed N.
Published: January 2021

Background: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) defined as glucose intolerance, which is first detected during pregnancy. Adiponectin is a protein that secreted from both adipose tissue & placenta in pregnancy. 1,5 anhydroglucitol in a steady-state normally and almost completely reabsorbed in renal tubules. Serum levels decreased in periods of hyperglycemia due to increased urinary excretion. The objective of this study is to predict gestational diabetes by measuring serum adiponectin, and 1, 5 anhydroglucitol during the first trimester.

Materials and Methods: This case-control study was conducted on 50 patients who attended inpatient and outpatient clinics Obstetrics & Gynecology Department. The study population grouped in two groups, Group A and B. Each group was comprised of 25 cases. Group I (25 cases): with high risk for gestational diabetes. Group II (25 cases): with no risk locates for developing gestational diabetes. Serum glucose level and adiponectin 1,5 anhydroglucitol was measured by ELISA method in the first trimester.

Results: The mean levels of the Adiponectin (μg/ml) and the 1,5 AG were significantly lower in GDM women (5.2 ± 2.1μg/mL,) and (6.8 ± 5.7μg/mL,) respectively compared to women without GDM (7.8 ± 2.4μg/mL) and (9.8 ± 4.2μg/mL) respectively (p = 0.001). The correlation between Adiponectin and BMI >30KG/M2, Fasting plasma glucose in the study group I with a significant correlation between in the first trimester. ROC curve of 1,5 AG was conducted for developing gestational diabetes. Excellent AUC was found (AUC = 0.907, p<0.001). At the cut off value of 17.55, sensitivity was 100%, specificity was 80%, PPV was 88.3%, NPV was 87%, and accuracy was 90%. ROC curve of Adiponectin for developing gestational. Good AUC was found (AUC = 0.881, p<0.001). At the cut off value of 17.3, sensitivity was 100%, specificity was 66.7%, PPV was 83.2%, NPV was 80%, and accuracy was 94%.

Conclusion: 1,5 AG and Adiponectin levels are lower in pregnant women with GDM compared to individuals without GDM. 1,5 AG and adiponectin are a good tool for monitoring the glucose profile in pregnancies complicated by diabetes mellitus, especially for the hyperglycemic episodes.
Toxicological Effect of Euphorbia heterophylla Linn
Authors: Kone J. K. , Onifade A. K.
Published: January 2021

Euphorbia heterophylla has been reported to possess enormous medicinal benefits hence there is a need for holistic research on its toxicological effects. Four different solvents (cold and hot water, chloroform and 80% methanol) were used to extract the aerial parts of Euphorbia heterophylla Linn. Experimental albino rats were obtained from Federal University of Technology Akure’s Microbiology Department Animal House. Toxicological analysis of Euphorbia heterophylla extracts was carried out on the experimental albino rats. The animals were grouped into thirteen with three rats in a group different concentrations of the extracts were administered orally to different groups of the rats for a period of two weeks (14 days). Sterile distilled water was administered to the negative control group. During the 14 days of extracts administration, the animals were observed for clinical manifestations like salivation, nervousness, imitability, itching of the nose and diarrhoea. After the expiration of the two weeks, the animals were sacrificed and vital organs like heart, liver, kidney and intestine were harvested and examined for any degenerative changes and lesions. Blood samples were collected before and after the administration of the extracts to check for blood parameters (Packed Cell Volume (PCV), white blood cell count (total and differential), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and haemoglobin (Hb) estimation. The toxicological results of the extracts showed various degrees of abnormalities detected in the histopathological sections of the intestine, kidney and the heart. It was found that all the extracts at different concentrations burnt the intestinal walls of all the animals tested. There were significant reductions in the total white blood cells (WBC) and neutrophil counts while there was a significant increase in the lymphocytes count after the administration of the extracts. The findings of this study revealed that Euphorbia heterophylla had toxicological effects on the albino rats organs but increases there lymphocytes count, boosting their immune system, however advance researches to eliminate the toxic phytochemicals from the extract is recommended.
Laparoscopic “Core-Pulling” Salpingectomy: A Novel and Minimally Invasive Modified Salpingectomy
Authors: Li Zhan-Fei , Lang Jing-He , Liu Hui-Bing , Feng Quan-Ling
Published: January 2021

The present study aimed to evaluate the feasibility, safety, and efficacy of laparoscopic “core-pulling” salpingectomy for tubal pregnancy. Laparoscopic core-pulling salpingectomy is a novel and minimally invasive salpingectomy variant, whose technical details are described here. In this retrospective study, 154 patients with tubal pregnancy underwent laparoscopic salpingectomy. In total, 76 and 78 patients underwent laparoscopic core-pulling salpingectomy (LCPS) and conventional multiport laparoscopic salpingectomy (MPLS), respectively. Then, clinical characteristics, intraoperative findings, and operative outcomes were compared between the 2 groups. Surgery was successful in all 154 patients, and no significant differences were found between the LCPS and MPLS groups in clinical characteristics, intraoperative findings, and operative outcomes. These findings indicated that LCPS is feasible and constitute a practical alternative to conventional salpingectomy.
Treatment of Gharbi Type III Hepatic Hydatid Cysts: A Clinical Dilemma
Authors: Yildiz Adalet Elcin , Yildiz Baris Dogu , Tez Mesut
Published: January 2021

This article aims to compare available treatment options for type III liver hydatid cysts, including surgery and percutaneous techniques. Hydatid disease is a helminthic infection caused by Echinococcus granulosus and is a serious public health problem in endemic regions of the world. Hydatid cyst of the liver is the most common clinical presentation of Echinococcus granulosus. According to Gharbi classification, hydatid cysts of the liver are classified into 5 types. Type III hydatid cysts are those with fluid collection and septa. Treatment of Gharbi type III hydatid cysts is still controversial. Some researchers think that Gharbi type III hydatid cysts are not suitable for percutaneous drainage, and surgery is the suitable treatment option. There are not enough prospective studies comparing percutaneous and surgical techniques for the treatment of type III hydatid disease of the liver. A proper meta-analysis does not seem to be possible with the available studies in current medical literature.
Results of Prompt Surgical Intervention in Hemodialysis Radiocephalic Fistula Secondary Dysfunction
Authors: Fansa Iyad , Kösem Mesut , Karatepe Celalettin , Sezen Adem , Karatepe Hilal Kuşcu , Göksel Onur Selçuk
Published: January 2021

Radiocephalic fistula (RCF) dysfunction is a common problem due to low maturation and patency rates of these fistulas. The most common procedure in such cases is to place a temporary catheter for the dialysis. Temporary catheter placement and undergoing dialysis with this catheter cause complications, reduce the chance for fistula, and deteriorate the quality of life. The aim of this study was to demonstrate that immediate intervention in RCF dysfunctions can increase fistula success for the patient and can reduce the need for a catheter. Furthermore, the hemodialysis treatment can continue without affecting the quality of life. A total of 295 patients who were admitted for RCF dysfunction and who underwent early surgical intervention without any catheter placement were evaluated for postoperative complications, patency rates, and rates and durations of temporary catheter use over a mean time of 47 months of follow-up (range: 4–79 months). Of the patients, 77.2% (n = 228) underwent new proximal anastomosis (NEO; the radial artery and cephalic vein were reached with an incision created proximal to the previous anastomosis), 14.2% (n = 42) underwent brachiocephalic arteriovenous fistula (AVF), 8.4% (n = 25) underwent side-to-side brachiobasilic AVF + superficialization of the basilic vein. In 88.8% (n = 262) of the patients, successful cannulations were performed within the first 24 to 48 hours without any catheter requirement or complications. Temporary catheter was used for 15.1 ± 10.7 days in 11.2% (n = 33) of the patients. In RCF dysfunctions, early surgical interventions performed in the forearm and elbow provide early cannulation and thus decrease the catheter requirement, also prevent the complications of temporary catheters (infection, decreasing the fistula success, vascular injuries, etc.), increase the autogenous fistula success, and allow for the continuation of dialysis without disturbing the quality of life.
Comparison of Fragment Removal Versus Internal Fixation for Treatment of Pipkin I Femoral Head Fractures: A Finite Element Analysis
Authors: Dong Dong , Li Yingnan , Zhu Dong , Yu Mingyang , Gu Guishan
Published: January 2021

Fragment removal and internal fixation are the principle treatments for Pipkin type I femoral head fractures. The aim of this study was to compare, using a finite-element method, changes in stress on the femoral head after 2 different operation types. A three-dimensional (3D) finite-element model of a Pipkin type I femoral head fracture was generated with MIMICS and ABAQUS software. A 3D numerical screw model was reconstructed based on data from BIOFIX and using SOLIDWORKS software. The screw was implanted in the fragment and femoral head to reconstruct the implantation. Stress changes on the femoral head after removal of the fragment and internal fixation were investigated. Mean stresses along 13 points were 16.94 ± 16.79 MPa in the fragment removal group and 14.17 ± 14.08 MPa in the internal fixation group (P < 0.05). Random tests indicated that the mean stresses along 50 randomly determined points were 25.41 ± 12.12 MPa in the fragment removal group and 19.45 ± 14.62 MPa in the internal fixation group (P < 0.05). Compared with internal fixation, fragment removal led to greater stress that was more concentrated in the femoral head.
Trade, Hellenistic
Authors: Gerardin François
Published: January 2021

The conquest of the Persian Empire by Alexander the Great and the subsequent creation of Hellenistic monarchies demarcates trade in the Hellenistic era (323–30bce) from previous patterns of commercial exchange. The legal institutions brought by the conquest, from coinage to contract law, modified the conditions of exchange for high‐value commodities, while local people mostly kept performing their daily transactions outside this legal and monetary framework. The foundation of new capital cities at Alexandria or Antioch increased the demand for grain, slaves, and luxury products, while trade connections with India and the east intensified.
Efficient and Stable Perovskite‐Based Photocathode for Photoelectrochemical Hydrogen Production
Authors: Kim Ju‐Hyeon , Seo Sehun , Lee Jong‐Hoon , Choi Hojoong , Kim Seungkyu , Piao Guangxia , Kim Yong Ryun , Park Byoungwook , Lee Jongmin , Jung Yoonsung , Park Hyungwoong , Lee Sanghan , Lee Kwanghee
Published: January 2021

Although organometal halide perovskites (OHPs) have desirable photovoltaic properties, their photoelectrochemical (PEC) water‐splitting application for hydrogen production is limited by the instability originating from their intrinsic ionic defects and hygroscopic vulnerability. Herein, a highly efficient and stable OHP‐based photocathode achieved by a new zwitterion (L‐proline) passivation and a eutectic gallium indium alloy (EGaIn) encapsulation method is described. The zwitterion, which has both cations and anions, can simultaneously passivate both positively and negatively charged defects in OHPs. The resulting OHP photovoltaic cells with passivated shows an over 20% power conversion efficiency with an open‐circuit voltage of 1.13 V and a short‐circuit current of 22.13 mA cm−2. The EGaIn‐incorporated Ti foil provides complete encapsulation from the external environment while maintaining good transport of photogenerated charges from OHPs. Thus, these photocathodes exhibit a remarkable average photocurrent density of 21.2 mA cm−2 which has less than 5% current loss between PV cells and PEC cells. More admirably, the photocathode has the highest stability over 54 hours under continuous full sunlight illumination in a sulfuric acid electrolyte.
Long‐Lasting Reactive Oxygen Species Generation by Porous Redox Mediator‐Potentiated Nanoreactor for Effective Tumor Therapy
Authors: Ding Tao , Wang Zhenqiang , Xia Daqing , Zhu Jing , Huang Jixi , Xing Yuxin , Wang Shuai , Chen Yuhua , Zhang Jixi , Cai Kaiyong
Published: January 2021

The therapeutic efficiency of reactive oxygen species (ROS)‐based nanotherapeutics is restrained by the rigorous production conditions of relatively sufficient and kinetically matching supply of intracellular substrates. The cumulative disruption of redox homeostasis and consequent pathology (e.g., Parkinson's disease) with low levels of substrates in living organisms may provide a promising model for ROS‐based therapy. Herein, a catechol chemistry‐mediated ternary nanostructure is prepared for long‐lasting generation of oxidative •OH in weakly acidic, low H2O2 homeostasis conditions of tumor. This platform employs mesoporous polydopamine (MPDA) as the porous redox mediator, while PDA‐induced sequential precipitation and biomineralization lead to hydroxy iron oxide (FeOOH) as the “iron reservoir,” and calcium phosphate (CaP) as the pH‐sensitive sheddable shell. In weakly acidic conditions, the CaP layer can be degraded to expose the catalytic surface of Fe‐dopamine interplay, where FeOOH dissolution, Fe(III) chelation, Fe(III) reduction, Fe(II) release take place sequentially and continuously for Fe(II) recycling and Fenton catalysis. Both in vitro and in vivo studies verify the significant inhibition of cancer cells and tumor regression, which can also be strengthened by the local photothermal heating. This work establishes the first paradigm of pathologically inspired nanohybrids of ROS generators with long‐lasting efficacy for cancer therapy.
A Biologically Muscle‐Inspired Polyurethane with Super‐Tough, Thermal Reparable and Self‐Healing Capabilities for Stretchable Electronics
Authors: Ying Wu Bin , Wang Guyue , Kong Zhengyang , Yao Chen Kai , Wang Yubin , Hu Han , Li Fenglong , Chen Chao , Tian Ying , Zhang Jiawei , Zhang Ruoyu , Zhu Jin
Published: January 2021

Polymeric elastomers play an increasingly important role in the development of stretchable electronics. A highly demanded elastic matrix is preferred to own not only excellent mechanical properties, but also additional features like high toughness and fast self‐healing. Here, a polyurethane (DA‐PU) is synthesized with donor and acceptor groups alternately distributed along the main chain to achieve both intra‐chain and inter‐chain donor‐acceptor self‐assembly, which endow the polyurethane with toughness, self‐healing, and, more interestingly, thermal repair, like human muscle. In detail, DA‐PU exhibits an amazing mechanical performance with elongation at break of 1900% and toughness of 175.9 MJ m−3. Moreover, it shows remarkable anti‐fatigue and anti‐stress relaxation properties as manifested by cyclic tensile and stress relaxation tests, respectively. Even in case of large strain deformation or long‐time stretch, it can almost completely restore to original length by thermal repair at 60 °C in 60 s. The self‐healing speed of DA‐PU is gradually enhanced with the increasing temperature, and can be 1.0–6.15 µm min−1 from 60 to 80 °C. At last, a stretchable and self‐healable capacitive sensor is constructed and evaluated to prove that DA‐PU matrix can ensure the stability of electronics even after critical deformation and cut off.
Bioinspired Spiky Peroxidase‐Mimics for Localized Bacterial Capture and Synergistic Catalytic Sterilization
Authors: Yang Ye , Wu Xizheng , Ma Lang , He Chao , Cao Sujiao , Long Yanping , Huang Jianbo , Rodriguez Raul D. , Cheng Chong , Zhao Changsheng , Qiu Li
Published: January 2021

Besides the pandemic caused by the coronavirus outbreak, many other pathogenic microbes also pose a devastating threat to human health, for instance, pathogenic bacteria. Due to the lack of broad‐spectrum antibiotics, it is urgent to develop nonantibiotic strategies to fight bacteria. Herein, inspired by the localized “capture and killing” action of bacteriophages, a virus‐like peroxidase‐mimic (V‐POD‐M) is synthesized for efficient bacterial capture (mesoporous spiky structures) and synergistic catalytic sterilization (metal–organic‐framework‐derived catalytic core). Experimental and theoretical calculations show that the active compound, MoO3, can serve as a peroxo‐complex‐intermediate to reduce the free energy for catalyzing H2O2, which mainly benefits the generation of •OH radicals. The unique virus‐like spikes endow the V‐POD‐M with fast bacterial capture and killing abilities (nearly 100% at 16 µg mL–1). Furthermore, the in vivo experiments show that V‐POD‐M possesses similar disinfection treatment and wound skin recovery efficiencies to vancomycin. It is suggested that this inexpensive, durable, and highly reactive oxygen species (ROS) catalytic active V‐POD‐M provides a promising broad‐spectrum therapy for nonantibiotic disinfection.
Type‐II AsP/As van der Waals Heterostructures: Tunable Anisotropic Electronic Structures and Optical Properties
Authors: Zhao Jun , Zeng Hui
Published: January 2021

van der Waals (vdW) heterostructures, formed by stacking layered materials, have great potential for next‐generation nanoelectronics and optoelectronics with unique flexibility and high performance. Using density functional theory, it is demonstrated that all AA‐ and AB‐AsP/As heterostructures are semiconductors with intrinsic type‐II band alignments, facilitating the separation of photogenerated electron–hole pairs. The anisotropic electronic structures of the puckered AsP/As vdW heterostructures can be effectively modulated by applying tensile strains. The bandgaps exhibit nonmonotonic variations and monotonic changes with the strains exerted along x and y direction, respectively, both experiencing an indirect‐to‐direct bandgap transition. The external electric field gives rise to significant modulation on the bandgaps of the AsP/As vdW heterostructures. Specifically, the buckled AsP/As heterostructures can be changed from indirect to direct semiconductors with a small positive electric field from 0.3 to 0.6 V Å−1, which cannot be achieved under tensile strains. In addition, AsP/As vdW heterostructures exhibit excellent anisotropic light‐harvesting performances in visible light and ultraviolet regions and can be efficiently tuned by external strains, suggesting the potential applications in photovoltaics. The tunable anisotropic electronic and optical properties of the AsP/As vdW heterostructures may facilitate their practical applications for nanoelectronic devices and photovoltaics.
Two‐Dimensional Metal‐Organic Framework Nanosheet Supported Noble Metal Nanocrystals for High‐Efficiency Water Oxidation
Authors: Jiang Qinyuan , Xu Jie , Li Ziqi , Zhou Chenhui , Chen Xiao , Meng Haibing , Han Ying , Shi Xiaofei , Zhan Chenhao , Zhang Yaqi , Zhang Qianfan , Jia Xilai , Zhang Rufan
Published: January 2021

It still remains a challenge to simultaneously optimize the nanostructure and electronic structure of electrocatalysts of noble‐metal‐based electrocatalysts to improve their performance and reduce their noble metal loadings, in which the dispersion and activity of the noble metal components play an important role. A series of hybrids of noble metal nanocrystals (NMNCs) and two‐dimensional metal‐organic framework (2D MOF) nanosheets are designed and synthesized by a facile, fast, and general approach, in which NMNC dispersion is quickly mixed with MOF precursors at room temperature. The NMNCs/2D MOF hybrids, denoted as M‐Ni‐NS (M = Ir, Ru or Pt, etc.), are assembled by taking advantage of abundant O‐atom arrays on the surface the of 2D MOF nanosheets and they enable excellent dispersity and stability. Experimental and computational results show that the M‐O‐Ni bridging bonds realize successful tuning of the electronic structure of active sites and modify their activity. Taken together with the merits of the nanostructure of the 2D MOF support, this multiscale optimization strategy produces Ir‐Ni‐NS electrocatalysts with excellent performance for the oxygen evolution reaction, achieving a low overpotential of 270 mV at 10 mA cm−2 in alkaline media and long time stability.
Graphene‐Integrated Reconfigurable Metasurface for Independent Manipulation of Reflection Magnitude and Phase
Authors: Huang Cheng , Liao Jianming , Ji Chen , Peng Jinqiang , Yuan Liming , Luo Xiangang
Published: January 2021

Reconfigurable metasurfaces are highly desirable for applications including dynamical camouflaging, intelligent electromagnetic (EM) skin and systems due to their tunable EM features or functions. So far most of the existing reconfigurable metasurfaces are developed by modulating their amplitude or phase. It is still very challenging to simultaneously achieve dynamical control of amplitude and phase in one design. This study reports a reconfigurable metasurface that can realize independent control of reflection magnitude and phase with the external bias voltages. In this metasurface, the graphene capacitor structure is used as an amplitude‐tuning layer for controlling the reflection magnitude by changing the effective sheet resistance of graphene, while the reflection phase is tuned by switching PIN diodes loaded in a periodic metallic structure. Such metasurface can control the scattering wave directions through phase coding, and the variation of graphene resistance can further modulate the intensity of the scattering beams. In addition, the metasurface can also function as a radar absorber where the absorbing magnitude and frequency can be dynamically tuned. Good agreements between simulations and experiments demonstrate its powerful ability to manipulate the EM waves by simultaneously tuning the reflection magnitude and phase, indicating a wide range of potential applications in EM fields.
Cross‐Coupling Reactions of Aryl Halides with Primary and Secondary Aliphatic Alcohols Catalyzed by an O,N,N‐Coordinated Nickel Complex
Authors: Hashimoto Toru , Shiota Keisuke , Funatsu Kei , Yamaguchi Yoshitaka
Published: January 2021

A synthesis of alkyl aryl ethers was achieved via the cross‐coupling of aryl halides with primary and secondary aliphatic alcohols catalyzed by a bench‐stable nickel complex supported by a monoanionic O,N,N‐tridentate ligand. This nickel‐catalyzed reaction proceeds smoothly in the absence of a phosphine ligand, affording alkyl aryl ethers in moderate to good yields.

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A Cascade Rh(III)‐catalyzed C−H Activation/Chemodivergent Annulation of N‐carbamoylindoles with Sulfoxonium Ylides for the Synthesis of Dihydropyrimidoindolone and Tricyclic [1,3]Oxazino[3,4‐a]indol‐1‐ones Derivatives
Authors: Xie Hui , Zhong Mei , Kang Hua‐Jie , Shu Bing , Zhang Shang‐Shi
Published: January 2021

A highly efficient cascade Rh(III)‐catalyzed C−H activation/intramolecular chemodivergent cyclization reaction of N‐carbamoylindoles and sulfoxonium ylides has been successfully achieved for the first time. This synergistic process provides rapid access to functionalized dihydropyrimidoindolone and tricyclic [1,3]oxazino[3,4‐a]indol‐1‐ones skeletons under redox neutral conditions with broad substrate scope and remarkable functional‐group compatibility. Further late‐stage modification of structurally complex drug molecules and mechanistic studies were also accomplished.

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Intermediate‐dose anticoagulation, aspirin, and in‐hospital mortality in COVID‐19: A propensity score‐matched analysis
Authors: Meizlish Matthew L. , Goshua George , Liu Yiwen , Fine Rebecca , Amin Kejal , Chang Eric , DeFilippo Nicholas , Keating Craig , Liu Yuxin , Mankbadi Michael , McManus Dayna , Wang Stephen Y. , Price Christina , Bona Robert D. , Ochoa Chaar Cassius Iyad , Chun Hyung J. , Pine Alexander B. , Rinder Henry M. , Siner Jonathan M. , Neuberg Donna S. , Owusu Kent A. , Lee Alfred Ian
Published: January 2021

Thrombotic complications occur at high rates in hospitalized patients with COVID‐19, yet the impact of intensive antithrombotic therapy on mortality is uncertain. We examined in‐hospital mortality with intermediate‐ compared to prophylactic‐dose anticoagulation, and separately with in‐hospital aspirin compared to no antiplatelet therapy, in a large, retrospective study of 2785 hospitalized adult COVID‐19 patients. In this analysis, we established two separate, nested cohorts of patients (a) who received intermediate‐ or prophylactic‐dose anticoagulation (“anticoagulation cohort”, N = 1624), or (b) who were not on home antiplatelet therapy and received either in‐hospital aspirin or no antiplatelet therapy (“aspirin cohort”, N = 1956). To minimize bias and adjust for confounding factors, we incorporated propensity score matching and multivariable regression utilizing various markers of illness severity and other patient‐specific covariates, yielding treatment groups with well‐balanced covariates in each cohort. The primary outcome was cumulative incidence of in‐hospital death. Among propensity score‐matched patients in the anticoagulation cohort (N = 382), in a multivariable regression model, intermediate‐ compared to prophylactic‐dose anticoagulation was associated with a significantly lower cumulative incidence of in‐hospital death (hazard ratio 0.518 [0.308–0.872]). Among propensity‐score matched patients in the aspirin cohort (N = 638), in a multivariable regression model, in‐hospital aspirin compared to no antiplatelet therapy was associated with a significantly lower cumulative incidence of in‐hospital death (hazard ratio 0.522 [0.336–0.812]). In this propensity score‐matched, observational study of COVID‐19, intermediate‐dose anticoagulation and aspirin were each associated with a lower cumulative incidence of in‐hospital death.