bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Aberrant promoter CpG methylation as a molecular marker for disease monitoring in natural killer cell lymphomas
Authors: Siu Lisa L. P. , Chan John K. C. , Wong Kit F. , Choy Carolyn , Kwong Yok L.
Published: June 2003

Summary. Natural killer (NK) cell lymphomas lack suitable clonal markers for tumour cell detection, making the monitoring of minimal residual lymphoma difficult. Aberrant promoter CpG methylation occurs frequently in NK cell lymphomas. The objective of this study was to assess the potential of aberrant methylation as a surrogate tumour marker. Twenty‐five primary tumours and 105 serial biopsies taken at various time points after treatment were examined using a methylation‐specific polymerase chain reaction (MSP) for a panel of genes, comprising p73, p16, hMLH1, RARβ and p15, previously shown to be methylated in NK cell lymphomas. All samples underwent independent morphological examination, supplemented by immunostaining for CD56 and in‐situ hybridization for Epstein–Barr‐virus‐encoded RNA. Primary tumours showed the frequent methylation of the genes p73 (92%), p16 (71%), hMLH1 (61%), RARβ (56%) and p15 (48%). MSP results in serial post‐treatment biopsies were correlated with clinicopathological findings. Results were concordant in 89 follow‐up samples (18 samples, histology positive/MSP positive; 71 samples, histology negative/MSP negative) and discordant in 16. Fifteen samples were histology negative/MSP positive, and tumour involvement was subsequently confirmed (positive re‐biopsies or relapses at the same sites), indicating that MSP was more sensitive for minimal lymphoma detection. One sample was histology positive/MSP negative; a subsequent histological review and continuous clinical remission of the patient did not support tumour involvement. Our findings suggest that MSP for aberrantly methylated genes is a potentially valuable molecular marker for detecting either residual or relapsed disease in NK cell lymphoma patients.
Preparation of curved root canals with rotary FlexMaster instruments compared to Lightspeed instruments and NiTi hand files
Authors: Weiger R. , Brückner M. , ElAyouti A. , Löst C.
Published: June 2003

Aim  To compare the recently introduced rotary FlexMaster instruments with Lightspeed instruments and NiTi hand files in preparing curved root canals.

Methodology  Root canals of extracted molars were shaped with rotary FlexMaster instruments (‘FM’: n = 45), Lightspeed instruments (‘LS’: n = 46), and NiTi hand files (n = 45) using the balanced‐force technique. The apical preparation size was 40. Root canal instrumentation was carried out in a phantom head under clinical conditions. A re‐assembly technique allowed a comparison of the canal outline before and after preparation. Root sections 2.5 mm short of working length were used to calculate the percentage of prepared canal outline (= PPO) and the amount of root canal transportation. Loss of working length, fracture rate and time spent on complete preparation were also recorded.

Results  The highest PPO values were found in the LS group (mean = 63% [95% CI: 55%; 70%]). Although not statistically significant, lower PPO values were detected for FM instruments (mean = 55% [95% CI: 49%; 62%]) and for hand files (mean = 53% [95% CI: 47%; 59%]). The incidence of root canal transportation exceeding 0.1 mm was significantly lower in the LS group than in the FM group. Loss of working length of 0.5 mm occurred in five cases (LS group: 4×; FM group: 1×). Two LS instruments fractured. Half the time was needed for root canal preparation with FM instruments than with hand files.

Conclusions  Rotary FM instruments are suitable for preparing curved root canals. They provided results similar to LS instruments with minimal risk of instrument fracture but increased risk of root canal transportation.
A new HCV core antigen assay based on disassociation of immune complexes: an alternative to molecular biology in the diagnosis of early HCV infection
Authors: Laperche Syria , Marrec Nadine Le , Simon Nicole , Bouchardeau Françoise , Defer Christine , Maniez‐Montreuil Michèle , Levayer Thierry , Zappitelli Jean‐Pierre , Lefrère Jean‐Jacques
Published: June 2003

BACKGROUND: An EIA based on immune complex disassociation of nucleocapsid proteins of HCV has been developed to detect and quantify HCV core antigen.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: To evaluate whether this new assay (trak‐C, Ortho Clinical Diagnostics) could be an alternative to NAT during the window period, its sensitivity in this context was assessed, and its performance was compared with that of a first‐generation HCV core antigen assay dedicated to the blood screening (HCV core antigen ELISA). Studied populations included nine HCV RNA‐positive, HCV antibody‐negative blood donors and 23 hemodialysis patients who underwent an HCV seroconversion. From these individuals, 81 samples (23 HCV RNA‐negative and 58 HCV RNA‐positive) sequentially collected during the phase before seroconversion were tested.

RESULTS: The nine blood donor samples were positive for the presence of HCV core antigen by the trak‐C, and 6 of 8 tested were positive for the presence of HCV core antigen by blood screening ELISA. In the hemodialysis cohort, the 23 HCV RNA‐negative samples were negative with the two HCV core antigen assays. Among the 58 HCV RNA‐positive samples, 46 of 57 (80.7%) tested were positive for the presence of HCV core antigen with the blood screening assay, and 57 of 58 (98.2%) were positive for the presence of HCV core antigen with the trak‐C. The mean delays in detecting HCV infection between trak‐C and the appearance of HCV antibodies, between HCV RNA testing and trak‐C, and between trak‐C and HCV core antigen ELISA were 58.2, 0.24, and 3.33 days, respectively.

CONCLUSION: Trak‐C was more sensitive than the blood screening assay and had similar performance to HCV RNA assay in the window period. Trak‐C could constitute an alternative to NAT for the diagnosis of HCV infection during the window period, especially when molecular biology procedures cannot be implemented.
The effect on ambulatory blood pressure of working under favourably and unfavourably perceived supervisors
Authors: Wager N , Fieldman G , Hussey T
Published: June 2003

Aims:To investigate the role played by employees’ perceptions of their supervisors’ interactional styles as a possible source of workplace stress that may be associated with increased morbidity and mortality rates from cardiovascular disorders in workers in the lower strata of organisational hierarchies.

Methods:A controlled, quasi-experimental, field study of female healthcare assistants. Allocation to the experimental and control groups was based on participants’ responses to a supervisor interactional style questionnaire. Experimental participants (n = 13) reported working under two divergently perceived supervisors at the same workplace, on different days. The control group (n = 15) worked either under one supervisor, or two similarly perceived supervisors. Ambulatory blood pressure was recorded every 30 minutes, over a 12 hour period for three days.

Results:The control group showed a 3 mm Hg difference in systolic blood pressure (SBP) and a non-significant difference in diastolic blood pressure (DBP; mean difference 1 mm Hg) between the two supervisor conditions. The experimental group showed significantly higher SBP (15 mm Hg) and DBP (7 mm Hg) when working under a less favoured compared to a favoured supervisor. The degree of divergence in perceptions of supervisors shows a significant positive relation with the difference in blood pressure between the two workdays. Divergence in perceptions of interpersonal fairness is the strongest predictor of difference in blood pressure.

Conclusion:An unfavourably perceived supervisor is a potent workplace stressor, which might have a clinically significant impact on supervisees’ cardiovascular functioning.
Amorphization Effects on Pure Titanium Using C+, O+ and Cr+ Ion Implantation
Authors: Athanasiou N. S. , Lanza F. , Paracchini L. , Brossa F.
Published: June 2003

In this work, the influence of the amorphization effect of C +, O + and Cr +, implantation on the friction and wettability properties of pure titanium (grade 2) has been studied. Doses from 1×1017 to 5×1017 ions cm-2 at multiple energies of 50 to 190 keV have been used. Additionally, pin-on-disk tribological tests using Ultra-High-Molecular-Weight-Polyethylene (UHMWPE) pins under lubricated conditions and wettability measurements of implanted and unimplanted titanium samples were carried out. We found, that the more suitable material for the wettability and hence wear resistance is C + implanted titanium, because of its higher surface energy than the unimplanted titanium corresponding energy. Friction tests on monoenergetic 180 keV C + and O + modified titanium with 1×1017 ions cm-2 have showed an essentially reduced friction compared to samples implanted with the same dose but at multiple energies. A reduction of the wettability by about 7% and the friction coefficient by about 18% was observed for carbon implanted titanium with a dose of 1×1017 C + cm-2; this effect corresponds to a good correlation between wettability and friction coefficient after C + implantation in titanium. It was concluded that the reduction of the friction coefficient with monoenergetic C + implanted titanium is 3.7 times lower compared with those of pure titanium. This important result could extend the average lifetime of orthopaedic components of approximately 2 orders of magnitude.
On the Dynamic of Population Spreading of Self-Organized Colonies of Individuals
Authors: Albano Ezequiel V.
Published: June 2003

A simple model for the self-organized displacements of self-driving individuals, aimed to describe the dynamic of flocking behavior among living things, is presented and studied. Processes such as growth, death, survival, self-propagation, competition and communication are considered. The model has two simple rules: The first one governs the displacements and states that all individuals have some tendency to assume the average age direction of motion of the neighboring individuals with some random perturbation (noise) added. The ability of the individuals to damp the external noise is introduced by means of the parameter α, such as for α→0 individuals cannot suppress the noise while for larger α-values; e.g. α≥4; the noise is effectively suppressed. The second rule allow the individuals to self-regulate the population.

The dynamic of the spreading of small colonies on an otherwise empty sample is firstly studied. The survivability of the colonies depends on the starting configuration. In finite samples and after some transient period, surviving colonies succeed to establish a stationary state. It is found that the spreading behavior of the colonies is independent on the parameter α. Spreading studies performed in finite space shows that after some transient period the systems reaches a stationary state with a constant (average) density of individuals. Such state can also be achieved starting from a randomly distributed population. In the stationary state the population density is conserved, however the local density of individuals becomes enhaced, in comparison to the global density. This behavior reflects a clustering tendency, i.e. "flocking behavior". Different patterns of displacement, ranging from random migration (resembling clouds of mosquitoes) to well ordered formations following a defined direction of migration (resembling herds of quadrupeds) are obtained varing the parameter α.
On Quantum Mechanical Aspects of Microtubules
Authors: Mavromatos N. E. , Nanopoulos D. V.
Published: June 2003

We discuss possible quantum mechanical aspects of MicroTubules (MT), based on recent developments in quantum physics. We focus on potential mechanisms for "energy-loss-free" transport along the microtubules, which could be considered as realizations of Fröhlich's ideas on the rôle of solitons for superconductivity and/or biological matter. In particular, by representing the MT arrangements as cavities, we present a novel scenario on the formation of macroscopic (or mesoscopic) quantum-coherent states, as a result of the (quantum-electromagnetic) interactions of the MT dimers with the surrounding molecules of the ordered water in the interior of the MT cylinders. Such states decohere due to dissipation through the walls of the MT. Transfer of energy without dissipation, due to such coherent modes, could occur only if the decoherence time is larger than the average time scale required for energy transfer across the cells. We present some generic order of magnitude estimates or the decoherence time in a typical model for MT dynamics. Our conclusion is that the quantum coherent states play a rôle in energy transfer if the dissipation through the walls of the MT cavities is fairly suppressed, corresponding to damping time scales Tr≥10-4-10-5 sec, for moderately large MT networks. We suggest specific experiments to test the above-conjectured quantum nature of the microtubular arrangements inside the cell. These experiments are similar in nature to those in atomic physics, used in the detection of the Rabi-Vacuum coupling between coherent cavity modes and atoms. Our conjecture is that a similar Rabi-Vacuum-splitting phenomenon occurs in the absorption (or emission) spectra of the MT dimers, which would constitute a manifestation of the dimer coupling with the coherent modes in the ordered-water environment (dipole quanta), which emerge due to "super-radiance".
Energy Spectrum and Persistent Currents in Finite-Width Mesoscopic Ring with Radial Potential Barrier Threading a Magnetic Flux Through its Hole
Authors: Gu Ben-Yuan , Sheng Wei-Dong , Wang Jian
Published: June 2003

The energy spectrum and the persistent currents are calculated for a finite-width mesoscopic annulus with radial potential barrier, threading a magnetic flux through the hole of the ring. Owing to the presence of tunneling barrier, the coupling effect leads to the splitting of each radial energy subband of individual concentrical rings into two one. Thus, total currents and currents carried by single high-lying eigenstate as a function of magnetic flux exhibit complicated patterns. However, periodicity and antisymmetry of current curves in the flux still preserve.
Nodal Liquid Theory of the Pseudo-Gap Phase of High-Tc Superconductors
Authors: Balents Leon , Fisher Matthew P. A. , Nayak Chetan
Published: June 2003

We introduce and study the nodal liquid, a novel zero-temperature quantum phase obtained by quantum-disordering a d-wave superconductor. It has numerous remarkable properties which lead us to suggest it as an explanation of the pseudo-gap state in underdoped high-temperature superconductors. In the absence of impurities, these include power-law magnetic order, a T-linear spin susceptibility, nontrivial thermal conductivity, and two- and one-particle charge gaps, the latter evidenced, e.g. in transport and electron photoemission (which exhibits pronounced fourfold anisotropy inherited from the d-wave quasiparticles). We use a (2+1)-dimensional duality transformation to derive an effective field theory for this phase. The theory is comprised of gapless neutral Dirac particles living at the former d-wave nodes, weakly coupled to the fluctuating gauge field of a dual Ginzburg–Landau theory. The nodal liquid interpolates naturally between the d-wave superconductor and the insulating antiferromagnet, and our effective field theory is powerful enough to permit a detailed analysis of a panoply of interesting phenomena, including charge ordering, antiferromagnetism, and d-wave superconductivity. We also discuss the zero-temperature quantum phase transitions which separate the nodal liquid from various ordered phases.
Applicability of the Standard Renormalized Field Theory to the Strong Coupling Regime for the Domb–Joyce Model
Authors: Sutter P. , Schäfer L. , Grassberger P.
Published: June 2003

We present a field theoretic analysis of high-precision Monte Carlo data for the Domb–Joyce model. This analysis shows the ability of the standard formalism to describe the data. In the Domb–Joyce model of a polymer chain the repulsion between two segments at the same point is varied between zero (random walk) up to infinity (self avoiding walk). To increase the excluded volume we even include a repulsion between segments at neighbor points. The data for the end-to-end distance, the radius of gyration and the partition function clearly shows the existence of two branches of universal behavior, corresponding to weak or strong excluded volume. The nonuniversal parameters of the renormalized theory have to be considered as fitting parameters to one given quantity (We have chosen the end-to-end distance). Given these nonuniversal parameters, we can predict the variation of all other measured quantities. Good agreement with the MC data is found for all data, including the strong coupling branch. We conclude, in contrast to some claims in the literature, that the standard formalism of the renormalized field theory can be used even for renormalized couplings greater than the fixed point value (strong coupling branch).
Tiefenpsychologie und Theologie
Authors: Obrist Willy
Published: June 2003

Der Konflikt zwischen Tiefenpsychologie und Theologie kann gelöst werden, wenn man die Bewusstseinsevolution betrachtet. Dann erweist er sich als Folge der Bewusstseinsmutation: jener erkenntnistheoretischen Revolution, bei der im Verlauf der Neuzeit die archaische Weltsicht, aus der die Theologie hervorging, überwunden und durch eine fundamental neue abgelöst worden ist.
Vitrectomy for Diabetic Macular Edema: Effect of Glycemic Control (HbA1c), Renal Function (Creatinine) and Other Local Factors
Authors: Kojima Takeshi , Terasaki Hiroko , Nomura Hideki , Suzuki Toshimitsu , Mori Masako , Ito Yasuki , Miyake Yozo
Published: June 2003

Aims: To determine the effect of preoperative factors on the foveal thickness following vitrectomy for diabetic macular edema. Methods: Fifty-eight eyes of 47 patients underwent vitrectomy for diabetic macular edema. In all eyes, no clear, visible vitreomacular traction was present. Twelve eyes were pseudophakic before vitrectomy, and 31 eyes underwent concurrent phacoemulsification and intraocular lens (IOL) implantation. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to assess the independent effect of age, history of photocoagulation, diabetic retinopathy status, preoperative posterior vitreous detachment, HbA1c and serum creatinine levels within 2 weeks before surgery, lens status after surgery and follow-up period on the foveal thickness determined by optical coherence tomography. Results: The median preoperative visual acuity was 20/100 (range from 20/500 to 20/20), and the median postoperative visual acuity was 20/70 (range from 20/500 to 20/13). The preoperative visual acuity (logarithm of minimal angle of resolution; logMAR) was 0.73 ± 0.36 (mean ± SD; 20/107 Snellen acuity), and the mean postoperative logMAR visual acuity was 0.60 ± 0.39 (20/80), which was significantly better than the mean preoperative value (Wilcoxon signed rank test, p = 0.011). The mean ± SD of preoperative foveal thickness was 475.9 ± 172.5 µm, and the mean postoperative foveal thickness was 277.3 ± 171.9 µm. The mean postoperative foveal thickness was significantly thinner than the preoperative thickness (Student’s paired t test, p < 0.0001). Multiple logistic regression analysis showed that a preoperative low HbA1c and postoperative pseudophakia were independently associated with the decrease in foveal thickness (p = 0.01, p = 0.04, respectively). Conclusions: The greater reduction in foveal thickness in eyes with an IOL probably resulted from a relatively larger amount of vitreous being removed during the vitrectomy. Because the decrease in foveal thickness may be related to the preoperative glycemic control and the amount of vitreous, these factors should be considered in the planning for vitrectomy.
The Workshop on Applications of Adjoint Models in Dynamic Meteorology
Authors: Errico Ronald M.
Published: June 2003

The Fifth International Workshop on the Applications of Adjoint Models in Dynamic Meteorology was convened in Mount Bethel, Pennsylvania, 21–26 April 2002. There were 62 participants from 12 countries. Topics included adjoint model development, sensitivity and stability analysis, ensemble forecasting, and several aspects of data assimilation.
A Successful Educational Collaboration between Scientists and Educators: Microscopic Explorations
Authors: Bergman Lincoln , Schooley Caroline
Published: June 2003

The teacher's guide, Microscopic Explorations: A GEMS Festival Guide ( Brady and Willard, 1998 ), is the result of a partnership between Great Explorations in Math and Science (GEMS), a program of the Lawrence Hall of Science (LHS), the public science and curriculum development center of the University of California, Berkeley, and the Microscopy Society of America (MSA). Microscopic Exploration supports the MSA's low-cost national outreach program and, also, reaches a very large educational community as part of the GEMS series. Some of the lessons learned through the extremely successful MSA/LHS collaboration are summarized here in hopes that they may be instructive to other scientists and educators as they launch their own partnerships and collaborations.
Management of Candida auris
Authors: Wasylyshyn Anastasia , Stoneman Emily K.
Published: January 2024

This JAMA Insights Clinical Update discusses the diagnosis, treatment, prognosis, and infection-prevention measures for Candida auris.
Adaptive prescribed‐time tracking control for uncertain nonlinear systems with full state constraints
Authors: Liu Bo , Li Jiayi , Ma Ruicheng , Fu Jun
Published: January 2024

This paper investigates the adaptive tracking control in a prescribed‐time for a class of uncertain nonlinear systems with a full state constraint. Firstly, in order to restrict the state constraints, the barrier Lyapunov function is employed and parameter uncertainty is handled based on linear‐in‐the‐parameters (LIP). A prescribed‐time adaptive controller is then designed by backstepping to ensure that the closed‐loop system can reach zero in a prescribed finite time under any given initial conditions. The prescribed‐time is independent of the design of the parameters. Finally, two simulation examples verify the effectiveness and usability of the proposed method.
Multiple models for decentralised adaptive control of discrete‐time systems
Authors: Makam Rajini , George Koshy
Published: January 2024

This paper investigates decentralised adaptive control of discrete‐time systems consisting of linear time‐invariant systems and a class of nonlinear systems. The parameters of the subsystems and the interconnection strengths between the subsystems are assumed unknown. Multiple adaptive prediction models with switching are used in this paper to address the relatively poor transient performance that typically results from a single prediction model. However, the application of this methodology requires indirect model reference discrete‐time adaptive control, and there appears to be very little focus in the literature on this. The principal contribution of this paper is to fill this void by arriving at proof of global stability of such decentralised adaptive systems using the theory of Lyapunov and properties of square‐summable sequences. The chosen representation of the system enables the same results to be directly applicable to both linear time‐invariant and linear‐in‐the‐parameters nonlinear subsystems. We consider two parametric update algorithms, one of which has a normalisation factor. Simulation studies included in this paper demonstrate the improvement in transient performance.
Aggregation of titanium‐oxo clusters
Authors: Xie Yu‐Long , Fang Wei‐Hui , Zhang Jian
Published: January 2024

Compared with nanoparticle‐aspect relatives titanium dioxide (TiO2), titanium‐oxo clusters (TOCs) are atomically structural‐determined and can be further precisely modified through coordination and supramolecular chemistry. Another parallel research direction is titanium‐based metal‐organic frameworks, and those based on TOC have attracted particular attention because of their high optical performances resulting from the cluster aggregation effect. Though challenging, assembling macro‐materials from specific clusters helps establish the assembly chemistry of clusters and incorporates porous and flexible characteristics into a single bulk material. Although separate reviews are reported in these two branches, no comprehensive review is available to highlight the bridges between them. Herein, we review and summarize the development and progress of new aggregation of TOCs, from intramolecular unique cluster aggregation to hierarchical intermolecular aggregation via covalent forces, coordination bonds, and non‐covalent forces using the specific clusters as precursors. We hope this review fills the gap in the methodology of assembling particular‐aggregated TOCs and their derived frameworks, providing general guidance to researchers interested in this area.
Development and validation of an individualized and weighted Myeloma Prognostic Score System (MPSS) in patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma
Authors: Mao Xuehan , Yan Wenqiang , Mery David , Liu Jiahui , Fan Huishou , Xu Jingyu , Xu Yan , Sui Weiwei , Deng Shuhui , Zou Dehui , Du Chenxing , Yi Shuhua , van Rhee Frits , Barlogie Bart , Shaughnessy John D. , Anderson Kenneth C. , Zhan Fenghuang , Qiu Lugui , An Gang
Published: January 2024

Current standard predictive models of disease risk do not adequately account for the heterogeneity of survival outcomes in patients with new‐diagnosed multiple myeloma (NDMM). In this retrospective, multicohort study, we collected clinical and genetic data from 1792 NDMM patients and identified the prognostic impact of all features. Using the top‐ranked predictive features, a weighted Myeloma Prognostic Score System (MPSS) risk model was formulated and validated to predict overall survival (OS). In the training cohort, elevated lactate dehydrogenase level (LDH), International Staging System (ISS) Stage III, thrombocytopenia, and cumulative high‐risk cytogenetic aberration (HRA) numbers were found to have independent prognostic significance. Each risk factor was defined as its weighted value respectively according to their hazard ratio for OS (thrombocytopenia 2, elevated LDH 1, ISS III 2, one HRA 1, and ≥2 HRA 2, points). Patients were further stratified into four risk groups: MPSS I (22.5%, 0 points), II (17.6%, 1 points), III (38.6%, 2–3 points), and IV (21.3%, 4–7 points). MPSS risk stratification showed optimal discrimination, as well as calibration, of four risk groups with median OS of 91.0, 69.8, 45.0, and 28.0 months, for patients in MPSS I to IV groups (p < .001), respectively. Importantly, the MPSS model retained its prognostic value in the internal validation cohort and an independent external validation cohort, and exhibited significant risk distribution compared with conventional prognostic models (R‐ISS, R2‐ISS, and MASS). Utilization of the MPSS model in clinical practice could improve risk estimation in NDMM patients, thus prompting individualized treatment strategies.
Metal‐Organic Frameworks: Direct Synthesis by Organic Acid‐Etching and Reconstruction Disclosure as Oxygen Evolution Electrocatalysts
Authors: Wang Xiao , Zhou Wei , Zhai Shengliang , Chen Xiaokang , Peng Zheng , Liu Zhi , Deng Wei‐Qiao , Wu Hao
Published: January 2024

Metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs) have emerged as promising oxygen evolution reaction (OER) electrocatalysts. Chemically bonded MOFs on supports are desirable yet lacking in routine synthesis, as they may allow variable structural evolution and the underlying structure‐activity relationship to be disclosed. Herein, direct MOF synthesis is achieved by an organic acid‐etching strategy (AES). Using π‐conjugated ferrocene (Fc) dicarboxylic acid as the etching agent and organic ligand, a series of MFc‐MOF (M=Ni, Co, Fe, Zn) nanosheets are synthesized on the metal supports. The crystal structure is studied using X‐ray diffraction and low‐dose transmission electron microscopy, which is quasi‐lattice‐matched with that of the metal, enabling in situ MOF growth. Operando Raman and attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy disclose that the NiFc‐MOF features dynamic structural rebuilding during OER. The reconstructed one showing optimized electronic structures with an upshifted total d‐band center, high M−O bonding state occupancy, and localized electrons on adsorbates indicated by density functional theory calculations, exhibits outstanding OER performance with a fairly low overpotential (130 mV at 10 mA cm−2) and good stability (144 h). The newly established approach for direct MOF synthesis and structural reconstruction disclosure stimulate the development of more prudent catalysts for advancing OER.
Controlling stabilization of oil‐in‐water emulsions with lignins through fractionation, functionalization, and formulation
Authors: Hadjiefstathiou Caroline , Manière Audrey , Attia Joan , Pion Florian , Ducrot Paul‐Henri , Gore Ecaterina , Grisel Michel
Published: January 2024

Lignins, heterogeneous assemblies of polyphenolic oligomers present in lignocellulosic plant biomass, are valorized mainly by combustion because of their low solubility in commonly used solvents. However, in addition to antioxidant, anti‐UV and antimicrobial properties, and marked interfacial properties are part of lignins physicochemical properties, thus making them good candidates for sustainable colloids. It is hypothesized that lignins solubility and emulsifying performances could be modulated by fractionation, functionalization, and formulation strategies. The importance of the solvent, and of the pH on lignins solubilization in aqueous phase was investigated. Accordingly, simple O/W emulsions stabilized by different lignins were designed and characterized. The whole results demonstrated that lignins solubility in water can be optimized using appropriate co‐solvent and pH readjustment resulting in a homogeneous dispersion with only 7.2 ± 1.8% wt/wt of insoluble lignins. Both fractionation and biocatalytic modification of lignins allowed increasing stabilization of the oil–water interface by limiting coalescence (23%–24% of relative increase of the D90) compared with non‐fractionated lignins (32%), thus advocating their potential use as multifunctional emulsion stabilizers. As a result, a direct link between the molar mass profile of lignins and their ability to stabilize the oil–water interface as well as to reduce emulsion's sedimentation could be established.
Immunomodulatory activities and biomedical applications of melittin and its recent advances
Authors: Jafari Zohreh , Sadeghi Sahar , Dehaghi Mahsa Mirzarazi , Bigham Ashkan , Honarmand Shokouh , Tavasoli Afsaneh , Hoseini Mostafa Haji Molla , Varma Rajender S.
Published: January 2024

Melittin (MLT), a peptide containing 26 amino acids, is a key constituent of bee venom. It comprises ∼40%–60% of the venom's dry weight and is the main pricing index for bee venom, being the causative factor of pain. The unique properties of MLT extracted from bee venom have made it a very valuable active ingredient in the pharmaceutical industry as this cationic and amphipathic peptide has propitious effects on human health in diverse biological processes. It has the ability to strongly impact the membranes of cells and display hemolytic activity with anticancer characteristics. However, the clinical application of MLT has been limited by its severe hemolytic activity, which poses a challenge for therapeutic use. By employing more efficient mechanisms, such as modifying the MLT sequence, genetic engineering, and nano‐delivery systems, it is anticipated that the limitations posed by MLT can be overcome, thereby enabling its wider application in therapeutic contexts. This review has outlined recent advancements in MLT's nano‐delivery systems and genetically engineered cells expressing MLT and provided an overview of where the MLTMLT's platforms are and where they will go in the future with the challenges ahead. The focus is on exploring how these approaches can overcome the limitations associated with MLT's hemolytic activity and improve its selectivity and efficacy in targeting cancer cells. These advancements hold promise for the creation of innovative and enhanced therapeutic approaches based on MLT for the treatment of cancer.
Research and innovation of engineering simulation practice teaching platform based on the civil engineering talent training
Authors: Li Nan , Gao Mengjin , Liu Shuaijie , Han Yiming , Xi Yajun , Gao Feng
Published: January 2024

The traditional experimental teaching and practical teaching cannot meet the requirements of experimental practice teaching under the new situation, and virtual simulation technology has made great progress in teaching. Based on this, a new teaching mode—engineering simulation practices teaching platform—is proposed. In this regard, the methodology research is carried out, and the implementation scheme is proposed. The teaching design, implementation, and improvement have received good application results, which effectively improve the training level of applied talents for civil engineering majors in colleges and universities.
Synchrotron X‐ray Characterization Techniques for the Development of Aqueous Zinc Ion Batteries
Authors: Gu Long , Zhang Yuying , Kong Qingyu , Yang Chunzhen
Published: January 2024

Developing low‐cost and safe batteries with high energy density is promising for large‐scale energy storage applications. Currently, aqueous zinc ion batteries (AZIBs) using Zn metal as the anode have attracted tremendous research attention as the next generation of energy storage devices due to their advantages of high energy density, environmental friendliness, and natural Zn abundance. The utilization of synchrotron X‐ray analytical techniques for in situ/ex situ characterizations offers a comprehensive understanding of the atomic local structure, crystalline structure, chemical states, coordination environment, interface properties, morphologies, and other physicochemical properties of materials on a variety of temporal and length scales, providing valuable insights into the fundamental mechanisms of AZIBs. This review highlights the recent advances and accomplishments of various synchrotron X‐ray techniques, which have been employed to investigate different components of AZIBs and show great promise for battery research and development.
Tuning the crystallinity of titanium nitride on copper‐embedded carbon nanofiber interlayers for accelerated electrochemical kinetics in lithium–sulfur batteries
Authors: Xiang Yinyu , Lu Liqiang , Yan Feng , Sengupta Debarun , Rudolf Petra , Kottapalli Ajay Giri Prakash , Pei Yutao
Published: January 2024

The development of lithium–sulfur (Li–S) batteries is hindered by the disadvantages of shuttling of polysulfides and the sluggish redox kinetics of the conversion of sulfur species during discharge and charge. Herein, the crystallinities of a titanium nitride (TiN) film on copper‐embedded carbon nanofibers (Cu‐CNFs) are regulated and the nanofibers are used as interlayers to resolve the aforementioned crucial issues. A low‐crystalline TiN‐coated Cu‐CNF (L‐TiN‐Cu‐CNF) interlayer is compared with its highly crystalline counterpart (H‐TiN‐Cu‐CNFs). It is demonstrated that the L‐TiN coating not only strengthens the chemical adsorption toward polysulfides but also greatly accelerates the electrochemical conversion of polysulfides. Due to robust carbon frameworks and enhanced kinetics, impressive high‐rate performance at 2 C (913 mAh g−1 based on sulfur) as well as remarkable cyclic stability up to 300 cycles (626 mAh g−1) with capacity retention of 46.5% is realized for L‐TiN‐Cu‐CNF interlayer‐configured Li–S batteries. Even under high loading (3.8 mg cm−2) of sulfur and relatively lean electrolyte (10 μL electrolyte per milligram sulfur) conditions, the Li–S battery equipped with L‐TiN‐Cu‐CNF interlayers delivers a high capacity of 1144 mAh g−1 with cathodic capacity of 4.25 mAh cm−2 at 0.1 C, providing a potential pathway toward the design of multifunctional interlayers for highly efficient Li–S batteries.
Mn(II) Promoted Divergent‐Convergent Domino Reaction Giving Dinuclear Tetrasubstituted Pyrrole Complex
Authors: Cai Jin , Zhao Bing , Zhang Qi , Wang Ao‐Hua , Zhang Jia‐Hao , Liu Bin , Zeng Ming‐Hua
Published: January 2024

Domino reaction of benzo[d]thiazole‐2‐methylamine (S1) has been developed in the presence of MnCl2 ⋅ 4H2O, leading to tetrasubstituted pyrrole coordinated dinuclear Mn(II) complex 1 ([MnClP]2, P−=2,3,4,5‐tetrakis(benzo[d]thiazol‐2‐yl)pyrrol‐1‐ide). The reaction process has been studied by assigning a series of intermediates based on time‐dependent mass spectrometry, control experiments, crystallography, and density functional theory (DFT) theoretical calculation. A plausible mechanism involving an unprecedented divergent‐convergent domino sequence has been proposed. Compound S1 could be activated by MnCl2 ⋅ 4H2O via coordination, which divergently produces two intermediates imine II (1‐(benzo[d]thiazol‐2‐yl)‐N‐(benzo[d]thiazol‐2‐ylmethyl)methanimine) and alkene C (1,2‐bis(benzo[d]thiazol‐2‐yl)ethene) through oxidative self‐condensation and free radical coupling followed by elimination, respectively. They could then react with each other convergently via formal [3+2] cycloaddition to give deprotonated tetrasubstituted pyrrole coordinated intermediate [MnClP] after aromatization. Dimerization of [MnClP] produces the final product 1. Three C−C bonds and one C−N bond are formed through this six‐step domino sequence. The corresponding organic skeleton (HP: 2,2′,2′′,2′′′‐(1H‐pyrrole‐2,3,4,5‐tetrayl)tetrakis(benzo[d]thiazole)) has been obtained from 1 and shows a higher fluorescent quantum yield (52 %) than the reported 3,4‐diphenyl substituted analogue 2,2′‐(3,4‐diphenyl‐1H‐pyrrole‐2,5‐diyl)bis(benzo[d]thiazole) (DPB) (42 %).
Application of ionic liquids in ion‐selective electrodes and reference electrodes: A review
Authors: Morawska Klaudia , Wardak Cecylia
Published: January 2024

Ionic liquids (ILs) are organic chemical compounds that are composed only of ions, a large organic cation and a smaller inorganic or organic anion. These are salts whose melting point is lower than the boiling point of water. ILs have many interesting properties, thanks to which they find great practical applications in analytics, electrochemistry, separation techniques, catalysis and others. One of the many areas of application of ionic liquids is sensors especially electrochemical sensors including ion‐selective electrodes. In this case, the properties of ILs that are particularly useful include very good electrical conductivity, high electrochemical stability, good extraction properties, hydrophobic character and compatibility with other materials, e. g. polyvinyl chloride plasticizers or carbon nanomaterials. ILs were used as components of ion‐selective membranes, both polymeric ones based on PVC and membranes in carbon paste electrodes. ILs performed various functions in these membranes, including lipophilic ionic additive, ionophore/ion exchanger, plasticizer, transducer media and matrix. They were also used as a component of the intermediate layer in solid contact ISEs. The last chapter presents examples of the use of ILs in reference electrodes. This review discusses the use of ionic liquids in ion‐selective electrodes (ISEs) and reference electrodes over the last ten years.
Fully Recyclable Liquid Metal‐Based Ultra‐Stretchable Electronics Enabled by Water‐Modulation‐Degradation‐Reconstruction Polymer‐Gel
Authors: Chen Husheng , Hou Tianfeng , Zhang Minghua , Du Jianke , Hua Licheng , Chen Xing , Zhang Aibing , Jin Yuan , Zhou Lvwen , Li Guangyong
Published: January 2024

The rapid development of stretchable electronics made by circuits, microchips, and encapsulation elastomers has caused the production of a large amount of electronic waste (e‐waste). The degradation of elastomers can highly minimize the negative effects of e‐wastes. However, chemicals that included acid, alkali, and organics were repeatedly used during the recycling process, which were environmentally unfriendly. Here, a water‐modulation‐degradation‐reconstruction (WDR) polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP)‐honey composite (PHC) polymer‐gel was developed and could be regarded as encapsulation elastomers to realize a fully recyclable water‐degradable stretchable (WS) electronics with multi‐functions. The stretchability of the PHC polymer‐gel could be modulated by the change of its water retention. The Chip‐integrated liquid metal (LM) circuits encapsulated with the modulated PHC encapsulation elastomer could withstand a strain value of ~3000%. Moreover, we developed a WS biomedical sensor composed of PHC encapsulation elastomer, LM circuits, and microchips, which could be fully recycled by biodegrading it in water to reconstruct a new one. As before, the reconstructed WS biomedical sensor could still simultaneously realize the combination of ultra‐stretchability, recycling, self‐healing, self‐adhesive, and self‐conformal abilities. The results revealed that this study exercises a profound influence on the rational design of multi‐functional WS electronics.
Thermodynamic evaluation of a novel renewable energy system that simultaneously provides electricity, freshwater, and syngas using a multiobjective optimization approach
Authors: Naderihagh Mehrdad , Ahmadi Abolfazl
Published: January 2024

This research entails the simulation and thermodynamic evaluation of a combined solar‐powered system that is intended to achieve the energy necessary to construct factories in areas where other sources of energy are not available. The system comprises five major circuits: (1) a parabolic trough that collects solar energy and passes it to downstream circuits via an evaporator, (2) an organic Rankine cycle that generates electricity for devices and factories, (3) a proton exchange membrane electrolysis unit that produces hydrogen from pure water, (4) a methanation unit that produces gas by combining hydrogen and carbon dioxide, and (5) a reverse osmosis (RO) unit that purges seawater to produce freshwater. This investigation studies the efficiency of energy and exergy, the destruction rate of exergy, and the economic value of system components as a whole. The system is represented by the technical equation solver, and the results are obtained as a result. This research employs the genetic algorithm and Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution method to locate the most effective point. The achieved outcomes include a maximum total system efficiency of 54.935% and a minimum total cost of 2.578 $/GJ. Dated to the optimal point, the power generated is 305.5 kW, the required power of a single‐cell electrolyzer is 293.8 W, the mass flow rate of methane and hydrogen production is 448.92 and 225.64 kg/h, respectively. The water volume generated by RO is 35.25 m3/h, and the total cost of the investment is 85.57 $/h.
Physician responses to insurance benefit restrictions: The case of ophthalmology
Authors: Abiona Olukorede , Haywood Phil , Yu Serena , Hall Jane , Fiebig Denzil G. , van Gool Kees
Published: January 2024

This study examines the impact of social insurance benefit restrictions on physician behaviour, using ophthalmologists as a case study. We examine whether ophthalmologists use their market power to alter their fees and rebates across services to compensate for potential policy‐induced income losses. The results show that ophthalmologists substantially reduced their fees and rebates for services directly targeted by the benefit restriction compared to other medical specialists' fees and rebates. There is also some evidence that they increased their fees for services that were not targeted. High‐fee charging ophthalmologists exhibited larger fee and rebate responses while the low‐fee charging group raise their rebates to match the reference price provided by the policy environment.
Initiation of oral hepatitis C virus treatment: Which barriers are pertinent for ambulatory individuals with a history of illicit substance use? A qualitative interview study
Authors: Barbati Selina , Strasser Johannes , Allemann Samuel S. , Arnet Isabelle
Published: January 2024

Background and Aims

The World Health Organization has set a goal to eradicate hepatitis C virus (HCV) by the year 2030. Nonadherence to HCV treatment has substantial economic implications due to high treatment costs, among others. Barriers to start HCV treatment may be critical. The aim of this study was to assess pertinent barriers to HCV treatment in ambulatory patients with a history of illicit substance use and to compare them to the literature.

Methods

Barriers to HCV treatment mentioned by the key risk group (i.e., people who inject drugs) were retrieved from literature through a pragmatic literature search. From 34 published articles, we identified 80 modifiable barriers that were bundled in 23 items within the four topics “Personal difficulties and barriers to treatment,” “Personal motivation to be treated,” “Knowledge about the disease,” and “Received information about the medicine.” In‐depth semistructured interviews were performed face‐to‐face with ambulatory patients from the University Psychiatric Clinics in Basel, Switzerland. Transcripts were coded inductively.

Results

Interviews were performed with seven individuals (mean age: 48.3 years; range: 38–63 years; one woman) treated with oral direct‐acting antivirals between 2014 and 2022. Thirteen barriers to start HCV treatment were mentioned that corresponded to the five categories: information, attitudes, swallowing difficulties, social environment, and unfavorable lifestyle. The barrier “swallowing difficulties” emerged exclusively from the statements provided by the interviewees.

Conclusion

Barriers to the initiation of HCV treatment indicated by our interviewees clearly differed from the literature. Notably, the challenge of swallowing medicines may be particularly relevant for physicians prescribing and pharmacists dispensing HCV medication.
Modern medical services, a double‐edged sword manages symptoms, but accumulates genetic background of cardiovascular diseases: A cross populational analysis of 217 countries
Authors: You Wenpeng , Henneberg Maciej
Published: January 2024

Background and Aims

Through reduced natural selection, measured with Biological State Index (Ibs), modern medicine enables most people to survive well beyond the reproductive lifespan leading to deleterious gene accumulation in population. This study explored the role of reduced natural selection in increasing cardiovascular disease (CVD) incidence worldwide.

Methods

Country‐specific estimates of CVD incidence and the index of reduced natural selection were captured for analysis of their correlation. Aging, affluence, obesity prevalence, and urbanization were considered as the potential confounders in the analyses.

Results

Worldwide, Ibs was significantly correlated with CVD incidence in the bivariate correlation analyses. This relationship remains when the contributing effects from aging, affluence, obesity prevalence, and urbanization are removed in partial correlation model. Multiple linear regression (enter) shows that Ibs is a significant predictor of CVD incidence. Stepwise multiple linear regression selects Ibs as the variable having the second greatest influence on CVD incidence after ageing. Ibs showed a significantly greater correlation with CVD incidence in low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMICs) than in high‐income countries.

Conclusion

Worldwide, through reducing natural selection, the side effects of healthcare services may have been partially contributing to the increase of CVD incidence worldwide with special regard to LMICs.