bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Repeatability and reproducibility of quantitative cervical strain elastography (E-Cervix) in pregnancy
Authors: Mlodawski Jakub , Mlodawska Marta , Plusajska Justyna , Detka Karolina , Michalska Agata , Swiercz Grzegorz , Sikorski Marek
Published: December 2021

Strain elastography of the uterine cervix may be useful in the diagnosis and prediction of obstetric complications. The inability to obtain quantitative results, with only the possibility of visual semiquantitative evaluation of the obtained elastograms, has been the limitation of the method thus far. E-Cervix is a software program that uses intrinsic compression to excite tissue and allows the evaluation of quantitative parameters on the basis of pixel distribution in an elastogram. The aim of this study was to assess the repeatability and reproducibility of quantitative cervical strain elastography (E-Cervix) of the uterine cervix and to assess the correlation of the obtained parameters with selected clinical features of patients in the third trimester of pregnancy. In total, 222 patients participated in the study. We assessed 5 ultrasound parameters: elasticity index (ECI), hardness ratio (HR), internal os strain (IOS), external os strain (EOS) and IOS/EOS ratio. Each study was performed according to a predetermined standardized protocol. For all assessed elastographic parameters, we obtained good intra- and interobserver reproducibility. The interclass correlation coefficient (ICC) ranged from 0.77 to 0.838 for intraobserver variability and from 0.771 to 0.826 for interobserver variability. We demonstrated a significant correlation of some obtained elastographic parameters with the basic clinical features of patients, such as age, the number of previous caesarean sections, pregnancy weight and BMI. In each case, the correlation was very low. Quantitative elastographic assessment with the use of E-Cervix is characterized by good repeatability. Some clinical features may affect the value of the parameters obtained. The clinical relevance of this interference requires further investigation.
A new approach to cold surge classification in East Asia
Authors: Kumar Anupam
Published: December 2021

Evidence showing a strengthening of intense cold surge event (CSE) in East Asia, e.g. CSE of Jan 2016 and Jan–Feb 2008, is focusing attention towards the science of CSE onset prediction. Predicting the onset of such strong CSEs remains elusive as the extent of these surges varies over spatial and temporal scales. Changes in radiative cooling over Siberia in winter as potentially affected by changes in the Arctic are further expected to influence CSE occurrences in East Asia. Moreover, unprecedented and long lasting CSEs in East Asia have a very distinct Jet Stream pattern via their shifts from the climatological mean, influencing the lower troposphere. Here, using modelling framework we propose a new relationship between Jet Stream and Aleutian Low for identifying and characterizing atmospheric process that leads to CSEs in East Asia. Our results reveal new insight into the mechanisms of CSEs occurrences, the absence of which may lead to major constraints on reducing CSE onset prediction error.
Global carbon sequestration through continental chemical weathering in a climatic change context
Authors: Lechuga-Crespo Juan Luis , Sauvage Sabine , Ruiz-Romera Estilita , van Vliet Michelle T. H. , Probst Jean-Luc , Fabre Clément , Sánchez-Pérez José Miguel
Published: December 2021

This study simulates carbon dioxide (CO2) sequestration in 300 major world river basins (about 70% of global surface area) through carbonates dissolution and silicate hydrolysis. For each river basin, the daily timescale impacts under the RCP 2.6 and RCP 8.5 climate scenarios were assessed relative to a historical baseline (1969–1999) using a cascade of models accounting for the hydrological evolution under climate change scenarios. Here we show that the global temporal evolution of the CO2 uptake presents a general increase in the annual amount of CO2 consumed from 0.247 ± 0.045 Pg C year−1 to 0.261 and 0.273 ± 0.054 Pg C year−1, respectively for RCP 2.6 and RCP 8.5. Despite showing a general increase in the global daily carbon sequestration, both climate scenarios show a decrease between June and August. Such projected changes have been mapped and evaluated against changes in hydrology, identifying hot spots and moments for the annual and seasonal periods.
Recent discoveries of new Elephantomyia (Diptera, Limoniidae) fossils in Baltic amber
Authors: Kania-Kłosok Iwona , Krzemiński Wiesław
Published: December 2021

New data on the genus Elephantomyia (Diptera: Limoniidae) from Baltic amber are presented. A new subgenus Hoffeinsonia subgen. nov. is established with one new species: Elephantomyia (Hoffeinsonia) prima sp. nov. The new subgenus is characterized by a wing at most 2.5 × as long as it is wide without a darker pattern along the veins Sc and R1, elongate Sc, straight vein R1, sharp half of vein R2+3+4 sharply arched to the upper edge of the wing, short, wide, trapezoidal d-cell and oval pterostigma. The fossil subgenus Hoffeinsonia subgen. nov. shares features with the extant subgenera Elephantomyodes and Elephantomyia. One other extinct species of Elephantomyia was discovered and described herein as E. (s. str.) christelae sp. nov. Such features as a very elongate vein R2+3+4, 2.5 × as long as the Rs easily allowing this new species to be distinguished from the other fossil representatives of the genus Elephantomyia. The taxonomic decision on Elephantomyia grata as a species placed in nominative subgenus is provided. A list and key of fossil species of Elephantomyia are given. The morphological pattern of the genus is discussed in relation to the adaptation to a specific food spectrum, coevolution with Angiospermae of the representative genus Helius known since Cretaceous and closely related to this genus representatives of the much younger genus Elephantomyia.
Impact of acute kidney injury on long-term adverse outcomes in obstructive uropathy
Authors: Yang Jihyun , Sun Bong Gyun , Min Hyeon-Jin , Son Young-Bin , Kim Tae Bum , Lee Jonghyun , Oh Se Won , Kim Myung-Gyu , Cho Won Yong , Ahn Shin Young , Ko Gang-Jee , Kwon Young Joo , Cha Jin Joo , Kang Young Sun , Cha Dae Ryong , Jo Sang-Kyung
Published: December 2021

Obstructive uropathy is known to be associated with acute kidney injury (AKI). This study aimed to investigate the etiologies, clinical characteristics, consequences and also assess the impact of AKI on long-term outcomes. This multicenter, retrospective study of 1683 patients with obstructive uropathy who underwent percutaneous nephrostomy (PCN) analyzed clinical characteristics, outcomes including progression to end-stage kidney disease (ESKD), overall mortality, and the impact of AKI on long-term outcomes. Obstructive uropathy in adults was most commonly caused by malignancy, urolithiasis, and other causes. AKI was present in 78% of the patients and was independently associated with preexisting chronic kidney disease (CKD). Short-term recovery was achieved in 56.78% after the relief of obstruction. ESKD progression rate was 4.4% in urolithiasis and 6.8% in other causes and older age, preexisting CKD, and stage 3 AKI were independent factors of progression. The mortality rate (34%) was highly attributed to malignant obstruction (52%) stage 3 AKI was also an independent predictor of mortality in non-malignant obstruction. AKI is a frequent complication of adult obstructive uropathy. AKI negatively affects long-term kidney outcomes and survival in non-malignant obstructions. A better understanding of the epidemiology and prognostic factors is needed for adult obstructive uropathy.
Impact of macular fluid features on outcomes of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor treatment for type 3 macular neovascularization
Authors: Yoon Wontae , Yoon Jihyun , Na Seung Kwan , Lee Jihyun , Kim Jaemin , Kim Jong Woo , Cho Han Joo
Published: December 2021

We evaluated the impact of macular fluid features on visual and anatomical outcomes in type 3 macular neovascularization (MNV) patients treated with anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). We retrospectively enrolled 89 eyes with type 3 MNV with at least 12 months of follow-up. All patients were treatment-naïve and received a monthly loading injection of anti-VEGF for three months, followed by further injections as required. The association of baseline macular morphology, including intraretinal fluid (IRF) and subretinal fluid (SRF), with visual and anatomical outcomes was analyzed. At baseline, IRF was present in all enrolled patients (100%), and SRF was present in 43.8% (39/89) of them. After 12 months of treatment, no significant difference was found in terms of best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and changes in central foveal thickness between the eyes with (39) and without (50) SRF at baseline. In addition, the proportion of improved or worsened (gain or loss of more than three lines in the BCVA) visual acuity at 12 months was not significantly different among the groups. Incidence of macular atrophy during the treatment showed no difference between the groups, regardless of the presence of SRF. In conclusion, the macular fluid morphology, specifically SRF, in type 3 MNV showed no significant correlation with visual and anatomical outcomes during anti-VEGF treatment.
Interactions between Babesia microti merozoites and rat kidney cells in a short-term in vitro culture and animal model
Authors: Albertyńska Marta , Okła Hubert , Jasik Krzysztof , Urbańska-Jasik Danuta , Pol Przemysław
Published: December 2021

Babesiosis is one of the most common infections in free-living animals and is rapidly becoming significant among human zoonoses. Cases of acute renal failure in humans caused byBabesiaspp. have been described in the literature. The kidneys are characterised by intense blood flow through the blood vessels, which increases the likelihood of contact with the intra-erythrocyte parasite. The aim of this study was to observe the influence ofB. microti(ATCC 30221) on renal epithelial cells in vitro cultured (NRK-52E line) and Wistar rats’ kidney. Both NRK-52E cells and rats’ kidney sections were analysed by light microscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). Necrotic changes in renal epithelial cells have been observed in vitro and in vivo. In many cross-sections through the rats’ kidney, adhesion of blood cells to the vascular endothelium, accumulation of erythrocytes and emboli were demonstrated. In NRK-52E culture, elements with a distinctly doubled cell membrane resemblingB. microtiwere found inside the cytoplasm and adjacent to the cell layer. The study indicates a chemotactic tendency forB. microtito adhere to the renal tubules' epithelium, a possibility of piroplasms entering the renal epithelial cells, their proliferation within the cytoplasm and emboli formation.
Identification and verification of the molecular mechanisms and prognostic values of the cadherin gene family in gastric cancer
Authors: Luo Shanshan , Lin Rujing , Liao Xiwen , Li Daimou , Qin Yuzhou
Published: December 2021

While cadherin (CDH) genes are aberrantly expressed in cancers, the functions of CDH genes in gastric cancer (GC) remain poorly understood. The clinical significance and molecular mechanisms of CDH genes in GC were assessed in this study. Data from a total of 1226 GC patients included in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Kaplan–Meier plotter database were used to independently explore the value of CDH genes in clinical application. The TCGA RNA sequencing dataset was used to explore the molecular mechanisms of CDH genes in GC. Using enrichment analysis tools, CDH genes were found to be related to cell adhesion and calcium ion binding in function. In TCGA cohort, 12 genes were found to be differentially expressed between GC para-carcinoma and tumor tissue. By analyzing GC patients in two independent cohorts, we identified and verified that CDH2, CDH6, CDH7 and CDH10 were significantly associated with a poor GC prognosis. In addition, CDH2 and CDH6 were used to construct a GC risk score signature that can significantly improve the accuracy of predicting the 5-year survival of GC patients. The GSEA approach was used to explore the functional mechanisms of the four prognostic CDH genes and their associated risk scores. It was found that these genes may be involved in multiple classic cancer-related signaling pathways, such as the Wnt and phosphoinositide 3-kinase signaling pathways in GC. In the subsequent CMap analysis, three small molecule compounds (anisomycin, nystatin and bumetanide) that may be the target molecules that determine the risk score in GC, were initially screened. In conclusion, our current study suggests that four CDH genes can be used as potential biomarkers for GC prognosis. In addition, a prognostic signature based on the CDH2 and CDH6 genes was constructed, and their potential functional mechanisms and drug interactions explored.
Comparison between the analgesic effectiveness and patients’ preference for virtual reality vs. topical anesthesia gel during the administration of local anesthesia in adult dental patients: a randomized clinical study
Authors: Almugait May , AbuMostafa Ammar
Published: December 2021

This study aimed to compare the analgesic effectiveness of virtual reality vs. topical anesthesia gel during the administration of local anesthesia (injections to numb the gums) in adult dental patients; as well as to determine which approach is preferred by the patients. Twenty-one adult patients received dental anesthetic injections bilaterally for their maxillary premolars area. We predicted that VR would be more effective than a topical anesthetic gel at reducing pain during injections into the gums. Using a within subject design, each patient received two injections during a single dental visit. Pain was measured after each injection. One side was of the mouth was injected under the influence of the topical anesthesia (TA) 20% benzocaine. The other side of the mouth was injected when the patient was in virtual reality (VR) watching an animated movie using an Oculus Quest® helmet to distract them during the other injection, treatment order randomized. Immediately after each injection, the patients were directed to rate their pain experience using the Wong-Baker Faces Pain-rating Scale (W-BFPS), and to choose which delivery system they preferred. Heart rates were recorded prior to and after the injections using a finger pulse oximeter. Participants reported the predicted pattern of a lower W-PFPS score (less pain intensity) during needle injection while in VR than the injection with topical anesthesia gel, however, the difference was not statistically significant. A statistically significant majority of the participants (p = 0.021) preferred VR to TA. No statistically significant difference heart rate during VR vs. TA was found. Although dental patients reported less pain during VR distraction vs. topical gel anesthetic, the difference was not significant. A statistically significant majority of patients preferred virtual reality over topical anesthesia during their future injections. However, no significant difference in heart rate was found.
The influence of limb role, direction of movement and limb dominance on movement strategies during block jump-landings in volleyball
Authors: Mercado-Palomino Elia , Aragón-Royón Francisco , Richards Jim , Benítez José M. , Ureña Espa Aurelio
Published: December 2021

The identification of movement strategies in situations that are as ecologically valid as possible is essential for the understanding of lower limb interactions. This study considered the kinetic and kinematic data for the hip, knee and ankle joints from 376 block jump-landings when moving in the dominant and non-dominant directions from fourteen senior national female volleyball players. Two Machine Learning methods were used to generate the models from the dataset, Random Forest and Artificial Neural Networks. In addition, decision trees were used to detect which variables were relevant to discern the limb movement strategies and to provide a meaningful prediction. The results showed statistically significant differences when comparing the movement strategies between limb role (accuracy > 88.0% and > 89.3%, respectively), and when moving in the different directions but performing the same role (accuracy > 92.3% and > 91.2%, respectively). This highlights the importance of considering limb dominance, limb role and direction of movement during block jump-landings in the identification of which biomechanical variables are the most influential in the movement strategies. Moreover, Machine Learning allows the exploration of how the joints of both limbs interact during sporting tasks, which could provide a greater understanding and identification of risky movements and preventative strategies. All these detailed and valuable descriptions could provide relevant information about how to improve the performance of the players and how to plan trainings in order to avoid an overload that could lead to risk of injury. This highlights that, there is a necessity to consider the learning models, in which the spike approach unilaterally is taught before the block approach (bilaterally). Therefore, we support the idea of teaching bilateral approach before learning the spike, in order to improve coordination and to avoid asymmetries between limbs.
Targeted insertion of large genetic payloads using cas directed LINE-1 reverse transcriptase
Authors: Manoj Femila , Tai Laura W. , Wang Katelyn Sun Mi , Kuhlman Thomas E.
Published: December 2021

A difficult genome editing goal is the site-specific insertion of large genetic constructs. Here we describe the GENEWRITE system, where site-specific targetable activity of Cas endonucleases is coupled with the reverse transcriptase activity of the ORF2p protein of the human retrotransposon LINE-1. This is accomplished by providing two RNAs: a guide RNA targeting Cas endonuclease activity and an appropriately designed payload RNA encoding the desired insertion. Using E. coli as a simple platform for development and deployment, we show that with proper payload design and co-expression of helper proteins, GENEWRITE can enable insertion of large genetic payloads to precise locations, although with off-target effects, using the described approach. Based upon these results, we describe a potential strategy for implementation of GENEWRITE in more complex systems.
Evaluation of human exposure to parabens in north eastern Poland through hair sample analysis
Authors: Wojtkiewicz Joanna , Tzatzarakis Manolis , Vakonaki Elena , Makowska Krystyna , Gonkowski Slawomir
Published: December 2021

Parabens (PBs) are a group of substances commonly used in industry. They also pollute the environment, penetrate into living organisms and adversely affect various internal organs. During this study, the degree of exposure of people living in Olsztyn, a city in north eastern Poland, to selected parabens most often used in industry was studied. The chemicals under investigation included: methyl paraben—MePB, ethyl paraben—EtPB, propyl paraben—PrPB, benzyl paraben BePB and butyl paraben -BuPB. To this aim, hair samples collected from the scalps of 30 volunteers were analyzed using a liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry technique. All PBs studied were present in a high percentage of analyzed samples (from 76.7% in the case of BePB to 100% in the case of MePB and PrPB). The mean concentration levels were 4425.3 pg/mg for MeBP, 704.0 pg/mg for EtPB, 825.7 pg/mg for PrPB, 135.2 pg/mg for BePB and 154.5 pg/mg for BuPB. Significant differences in PB concentration levels between particular persons were visible. On the other hand, gender, age and artificial hair coloring did not cause statistically significant differences in PB levels. Obtained results have clearly indicated that people living in north eastern Poland are exposed to various PBs, and therefore these substances may affect their health status. However, the evaluation of PBs influence on human health requires further research.
RGEN-seq for highly sensitive amplification-free screen of off-target sites of gene editors
Authors: Kuzin Alexander , Redler Brendan , Onuska Jaya , Slesarev Alexei
Published: December 2021

Sensitive detection of off-target sites produced by gene editing nucleases is crucial for developing reliable gene therapy platforms. Although several biochemical assays for the characterization of nuclease off-target effects have been recently published, significant technical and methodological issues still remain. Of note, existing methods rely on PCR amplification, tagging, and affinity purification which can introduce bias, contaminants, sample loss through handling, etc. Here we describe a sensitive, PCR-free next-generation sequencing method (RGEN-seq) for unbiased detection of double-stranded breaks generated by RNA-guided CRISPR-Cas9 endonuclease. Through use of novel sequencing adapters, the RGEN-Seq method saves time, simplifies workflow, and removes genomic coverage bias and gaps associated with PCR and/or other enrichment procedures. RGEN-seq is fully compatible with existing off-target detection software; moreover, the unbiased nature of RGEN-seq offers a robust foundation for relating assigned DNA cleavage scores to propensity for off-target mutations in cells. A detailed comparison of RGEN-seq with other off-target detection methods is provided using a previously characterized set of guide RNAs.
Introduction
Authors: Rizk Marwa M. I. , Hardmeier Mark
Published: December 2021

This chapter sets the scene for the volume. It considers briefly the major healthcare challenges facing mankind in the 21st century, and then surveys the families of inorganic materials that have been explored in research to overcome these.
Imaging Applications of Inorganic Nanomaterials
Authors: Geraldes Carlos F. G. C.
Published: December 2021

The introduction of new diagnostic imaging modalities in parallel with recent developments in nanomaterial science has led to the development of an explosive number of nanoplatforms for diagnostic molecular imaging applications. This chapter describes in a systematic way the types of nanomaterials used for imaging, based on their physicochemical properties. It further correlates them with the corresponding imaging modalities where they can be applied by describing the physical basis of their imaging contrast effects. Their advantages and disadvantages are described and the ways they can be optimally combined into multimodal probes for recently developed hybrid imaging techniques are discussed. Selected in vivo applications of single and multimodal nanoprobes are described. The bodistribution, excretion, and toxicity of nanoparticles, which can limit their success in clinical translation, are also explored. Finally, a few cases undergoing clinical translation are presented and discussed.
Inorganic Biomaterials to Support the Formation and Repair of Bone Tissue
Authors: O’ Sullivan Caroline , Kennedy Grainne , O’ Neill Liam , Crean Abina M. , Ryan Katie B.
Published: December 2021

Orthopaedic medical devices, including trauma fixation plates, bone screws, and hip stems, play fundamental roles in restoring function and mobility, relieving pain, and improving the quality of life for millions of patients, who suffer from trauma or impairments to the musculoskeletal system. However, problems due to aseptic loosening and orthopaedic device related infections result in poor bone–implant integration and inadequate stabilisation. A diverse array of materials, including polymers, metals, ceramics, and composite materials are utilised in orthopaedic procedures, since no single material can address differing demands related to the application, site of implantation, requirements for load bearing and articulating surfaces in addition to patient, manufacturing, and clinical requirements. This chapter describes the factors influencing the interaction of orthopaedic implants at the biological interface and how material properties can be pivotal in this regard. We provide a review of inorganic biomaterials under active investigation and in use clinically. In particular, we focus on calcium phosphate and bioactive glass materials. We present significant advancements that have been made to improve the functionality of inorganic biomaterials and enhance the clinical outcome in orthopaedic applications. We conclude by highlighting research on innovative strategies to prevent orthopaedic device related infections.
Strongly coupled Fe-doped NiS2/MoS2 composite for high-efficiency water splitting
Authors: Tian Jinrui , Xing Xu , Sun Yanhui , Zhang Xu , Li Zongge , Yang Miaosen , Zhang Guoxin
Published: December 2021

A strongly coupled Fe-doped NiS2/MoS2 composite was fabricated through an in situ induced dual confinement during the vapor vulcanization of precursors, exhibiting a significantly enhanced bifunctional HER/OER performance.
Aggregation-induced chirality amplification of optically active fluorescent polyurethane and a cyclic dimer in the ground and excited states
Authors: Song Zhiyi , Sato Hiroyasu , Pietropaolo Adriana , Wang Qingyu , Shimoda Shuhei , Dai Heshuang , Imai Yoshitane , Toda Hayato , Harada Takunori , Shichibu Yukatsu , Konishi Katsuaki , Bando Masayoshi , Naga Naofumi , Nakano Tamaki
Published: December 2021

A helical polyurethane composed of alternating fluorene-2,7-diyl and 1,1′-binaphthyl-2,2′-diyl units showed intense CD and the corresponding cyclic dimer exhibited circularly polarized light emission with high anisotropy through aggregation-induced chirality amplification.
Parahydrogen hyperpolarization of minimally altered urine samples for sensitivity enhanced NMR metabolomics
Authors: Ausmees Kerti , Reimets Nele , Reile Indrek
Published: December 2021

Removing SPE from urine sample preparation retains the majority of the urinary metabolome, giving access to the most information rich hyperpolarized NMR spectra up to date.
A high-capacity polyaniline-intercalated layered vanadium oxide for aqueous ammonium-ion batteries
Authors: Han Chunhua , Zhu Jiao , Fu Kai , Deng Dan , Luo Wen , Mai Liqiang
Published: December 2021

Layered polyaniline intercalated V2O5 with an expanded layer of ∼1.55 nm exhibits an extremely high ammonium storage capacity.
Defect passivation of a perovskite film by ZnIn2S4 nanosheets for efficient and stable perovskite solar cells
Authors: Huang Jianting , Li Jinting , Zheng Linqi , Zhong Guohui , Li Yafeng , Li Junming , Wei Mingdeng
Published: December 2021

ZnIn2S4 nanosheets were first used to passivate the defects of a perovskite film and the non-radiation recombination was suppressed, resulting in an efficiency of 20.55%.
Enhanced electrochemical performance in an aluminium doped δ-MnO2supercapacitor cathode: experimental and theoretical investigations
Authors: Wan Jing , Ji Peiyuan , Li Bangxing , Xi Yi , Gu Xiao , Huang Li , He Mingquan , Hu Chenguo
Published: December 2021

Experimental analysis and theoretical calculation methods have been applied to gain a deep understanding of the electrochemical performance of the δ-Al0.06MnO2system. Al doping could weaken the surface energy and hinder the side reaction or structure transformation, leading to a better cycling and rate performance of δ-MnO2.
Silver-assisted gold-catalyzed solid phase synthesis of linear and branched oligosaccharides
Authors: Sutar Yogesh , Vangala Madhuri , Hotha Srinivas
Published: December 2021

Gold-catalyzed synthesis of oligosaccharides is reported by solid-phase methods. The utility of this is demonstrated by the synthesis of branched and linear pentaarabinofuranosides.
Catalytic asymmetric aromatizing inverse electron-demand [4+2] cycloaddition of 1-thioaurones and 1-azaaurones
Authors: Yuan Shu-Pei , Dou Pei-Hao , Jia Yun-Qing , Zhao Jian-Qiang , You Yong , Wang Zhen-Hua , Zhou Ming-Qiang , Yuan Wei-Cheng
Published: December 2021

An organocatalytic asymmetric aromatizing inverse electron-demand [4+2] cycloaddition of 1-thioaurones/1-azaaurones with γ-deconjugated butenolides and azlactones was developed.
Thermostable water reservoirs in the interlayer space of a sodium hectorite clay through the intercalation of γ-aminopropyl(dimethyl)ethoxysilane in toluene
Authors: Keil Waldemar , Zhao Kai , Oswald Arthur , Bremser Wolfgang , Schmidt Claudia , Hintze-Bruening Horst
Published: December 2021

Thermostable compartmentalized sodium-water sites through intercalated γ-aminopropyl-dimethyl-ethoxy silane in synthetic hectorite.
Surface modeling of photocatalytic materials for water splitting
Authors: Zhang Chunyang , Chen Guijun , Si Yitao , Liu Maochang
Published: December 2021

A general understanding of the methods for the surface modeling of photocatalytic materials in recent years.
Solvent-mediated isotope effects strongly influence the early stages of calcium carbonate formation: exploring D2O vs. H2O in a combined computational and experimental approach
Authors: King Michael , Avaro Jonathan T. , Peter Christine , Hauser Karin , Gebauer Denis
Published: December 2021

We explore solvent-mediated isotope effects of H2O vs. D2O in the early stages of CaCO3 formation, computationally and experimentally. Distinct and complex effects occur, while nucleation appears to proceed “more classically” in D2O than in H2O.
Chitosan-based inks for 3D printing and bioprinting
Authors: Taghizadeh Mohsen , Taghizadeh Ali , Yazdi Mohsen Khodadadi , Zarrintaj Payam , Stadler Florian J. , Ramsey Joshua D. , Habibzadeh Sajjad , Hosseini Rad Somayeh , Naderi Ghasem , Saeb Mohammad Reza , Mozafari Masoud , Schubert Ulrich S.
Published: December 2021

3D printing gave biomedical engineering great potential to mimic native tissues, accelerated regenerative medicine, and enlarged capacity of drug delivery systems; thus, advanced biomimetic functional biomaterial developed by 3D-printing for tissue engineering demands.
The standardization and application of an external (in air) particle induced gamma emission (PIGE) method for the rapid and non-destructive quantification of light elements at major to trace concentrations in coal, bottom ash and coke samples
Authors: Samanta S. K. , Sengupta A. , Ghorui S. , Acharya R. , Pujari P. K.
Published: December 2021

Rapid and non-destructive quantification of low-Z elements (Si, Al, Mg, Na, F, and B) via external (in air) PIGE in coal samples.
The role of hydrogen bonding in tuning CEST contrast efficiency: a comparative study of intra- and inter-molecular hydrogen bonding
Authors: Pandey Shalini , Chakraborty Subhayan , Ghosh Rimilmandrita , Radhakrishnan Divya , Peruncheralathan Saravanan , Ghosh Arindam
Published: December 2021

A comparison of different diacetamide isomers shows the influence of hydrogen-bonding networks in tuning the diaCEST MRI contrast efficiency.
Water assisted high proton conductance in a pure-inorganic framework vanadoborate
Authors: Liu Xinxin , Zhang Le , Zhao SiSi , Guo Biao , Zhao Zhen
Published: December 2021

A pure-inorganic framework vanadoborate is successfully synthesized under hydrothermal conditions and exhibits good proton conductivity.
Phosphate determination in environmental, biological and industrial samples using a smartphone as a capture device
Authors: Sáez-Hernández Roberto , Mauri-Aucejo Adela R. , Morales-Rubio Angel , Pastor Agustin , Cervera M. L.
Published: December 2021

A lab-made device was built to analyse phosphate in four different matrices using a smartphone as a capturing device.
Z-Scheme heterostructures for glucose oxidase-sensitized radiocatalysis and starvation therapy of tumors
Authors: Wang Ze , Wang Lu , Liu Shuwei , Zhang Mengsi , Li Yunfeng , Rong Li , Liu Yi , Zhang Hao
Published: December 2021

BiOI/Bi2S3@polydopamine nanosheets modified by amine–polyethylene glycol–folic acid and glucose oxidase are designed and constructed for glucose oxidase-sensitized radiocatalysis therapy and starvation therapy of tumors.
Photoresponsive nanostructures of azobenzene-containing block copolymers at solid surfaces
Authors: Sun Shaodong , Yuan Chenrui , Xie Zhulu , Xu Wen-Cong , Zhang Qijin , Wu Si
Published: December 2021

An azobenzene-containing block copolymer self-assembled into island-like nanostructures. The island-like nanostructures fused into chain-like nanostructures under UV irradiation based on photoinduced solid-to-liquid transitions at the nanoscale.
An online monitoring method of moisture in transformer bushings based on an improved humidity indicator card
Authors: Shu Shengwen , Zheng Zhicong , Chen Yangyang , Li Wei , Wang Guobin , Liao Fuwang
Published: December 2021

One of the main reasons for the failure of transformer bushings is moisture penetration. Here, an online monitoring method of moisture in transformer bushings based on an improved humidity indicator card, which belongs to the group of passive physical and chemical monitoring methods, is proposed. First, the operating principles and monitoring system are explained. Next, by means of a moisture simulation device, the moisture migration characteristics between the gas and oil, the influence of the interface radius on the response characteristics of the monitoring device, and the characteristics of the humidity indicator card are studied experimentally. Then, the moisture migration process in micro‐scale is simulated by molecular dynamics simulation. Finally, by changing the mass fraction of the cobalt chloride in the humidity card, the warning values of relative humidity at different temperatures are obtained. The simulation results show that water molecules can migrate from the oil–paper system to the air. Moreover, once the moisture enters the transformer bushing, the proposed humidity indicator card can correctly display the relative humidity at different temperatures. In conclusion, the proposed method provides a new way for online moisture monitoring of transformer bushings.
Is planting trees good or bad?
Authors: Ivetić Vladan , Devetaković Jovana , Kerkez Janković Ivona
Published: December 2021

Planting trees is popular, widely accepted and supported, resulting with many initiatives and commitments around the globe. At the same time, planting trees is questioned more and more and receive a lot of criticism. In this paper we consider the arguments of both sides and discuss them using a scientific evidence. Determination of restoration opportunities and restoration needs requires more intention to existing ecosystems and their use. Commitments and expectations need to be realistic to maintain constant support based on real results. Planting trees is not the best solution for carbon storage, but it is one of the best solutions available at this moment. Even if reduce anthropogenic CO2 emission to zero, we will need to plant trees. Planting trees can have both negative and positive effect on water availability and socio-economy, depending on restoration practice applied. Planting trees is definitely good, if it is done at appropriate site and with appropriate tree species and if it is based on proper planning and realistic expectations.
Sustainable Development and Competition: new evidence from EU countries
Authors: Fotis Panagiotis
Published: December 2021

In this paper we present energy efficiency targets indicators of sustainable development and we discuss the role of competition, on promoting and enhancing sustainability and pricing issues. For this purpose, we present statistical evidence of energy efficiency targets indicators, we highlight the degree of competition of electrical markets in various member states and we present the effect of the degree of competition on electrical prices and energy efficiency targets. The empirical results indicate that the higher the degree of competition in electrical markets, the lower the electrical prices. Furthermore, less concentrated electrical markets exhibit higher rates of greenhouse gas emissions and share of renewable energy in total energy consumption than in the less competitive markets. Even though the empirical results do not reveal a clear-cut picture in regard with the effect of competition on energy efficiency indicator, EU28 countries have a primary energy consumption of almost 1.526 Mtoe in 2019 and they are quite close to achieve the energy efficiency target of Europe 2020 strategy implemented by Directive 2012/27/EU on energy efficiency.
L’inhabitable : au seuil, la Chose
Authors: Yvan Frédéric
Published: December 2021

À partir des analyses de Lacan concernant das Ding, la sublimation et la formule du fantasme, nous développons l’hypothèse que le seuil est ce reste nécessaire de la Chose inhabitable au centre de l’habiter; et sa condition. Extime de l’architecture il est simultanément ce bord de réversion entre le monde comme système de lieux et l’immonde comme béance originelle. Le seuil est alors en ce sens, qu’il soit enserré ou déployé, le non-lieu de l’inhabitable.
Du « théâtre de l’hystérie » au « théâtre du handicap »
Authors: Bonnefon Gérard
Published: December 2021

Du « théâtre de l’hystérie » initié par J. M. Charcot, au « théâtre du handicap » nous assistons à la mise en scène des « corps » de femmes hystériques, puis de ceux des personnes handicapées. Une impasse théâtrale sera mise en évidence en rappelant le rôle précurseur du théâtre de Sade à la Maison nationale de Charenton qui rassemblait des internés, des personnels soignants et des artistes. Un « théâtre de citoyens » demeure la seule entreprise artistique possible et non la réification du handicap au moyen de l’art.
Einfluss der mediterranen Ernährung auf das Brustkrebsrisiko: Welche Rolle spielt das Mikrobiom?
Authors: Seethaler Benjamin , Beutel Michelle , Basrai Maryam , Kiechle Marion , Bischoff Stephan C.
Published: December 2021

Zahlreiche Studien haben gezeigt, dass die mediterrane Ernährung vor ernährungsmitbedingten Erkrankungen wie Übergewicht, Diabetes mellitus Typ 2, Herz-Kreislauf-Erkrankungen und verschiedenen Krebsentitäten, einschließlich Brustkrebs, schützen kann. Die zugrunde liegenden Mechanismen sind jedoch weitgehend unklar. Bislang wurde vor allem die Rolle antiinflammatorischer Fettsäuren diskutiert. In der vorliegenden Übersichtsarbeit soll am Beispiel des genetisch determinierten sowie des sporadischen Brustkrebses der Frage nachgegangen werden, welche Rolle das Darmmikrobiom spielen könnte, dessen Zusammensetzung und Funktion durch die mediterrane Ernährung verändert wird.
Liquid biopsy zur Individualisierung der Therapie beim fortgeschrittenen Harnblasenkarzinom
Authors: Junker Kerstin
Published: December 2021

Die Analyse von Körperflüssigkeiten („Liquid biopsy“), rückt zunehmend in den Fokus der Biomarkerentwicklung, da sie entscheidende Vorteile gegenüber der Gewebeanalyse aufweist. In den Körperflüssigkeiten können neben Proteinen und Lipoproteinen auch zirkulierende Tumorzellen (CTCs), extrazelluläre Vesikel (EVs) sowie deren Bestandteile und zellfreie Nukleinsäuren (DNA, RNA) analysiert werden. Muskelinvasive Harnblasentumore (MIHB) stellen eine besondere klinische Herausforderung dar. Hier werden neue Biomarker benötigt, um das individuelle Metastasierungsrisiko einzuschätzen, die Metastasierung im Follow-up frühzeitig zu erkennen und die effektivste systemische Therapie für den einzelnen Patienten einzusetzen. Diese Arbeit gibt einen Überblick über den aktuellen Stand zur „Liquid Biospy“ aus dem Blut bei fortgeschrittenen MIHB unter Berücksichtigung von CTCs, zirkulierender Tumor-DNA (ctDNA), nicht kodierenden RNAs (ncRNAs) sowie EVs und deren Bedeutung für Prognosebewertung und Therapieentscheidung.
Mandibuläre Asymmetrien
Authors: Ziemann Fabian
Published: December 2021

Patienten mit einer mandibulären Asymmetrie bedürfen eines individuellen Behandlungskonzeptes, welches eine enge Zusammenarbeit verschiedener Disziplinen der Zahnmedizin erfordert. Dieser Beitrag soll einen Überblick über die Ätiologie, Diagnose und Therapieansätze mandibulärer Asymmetrien geben.
Die orthodontische Zahnbewegung
Authors: Artioli Irene , Crismani Adriano
Published: December 2021

Eine kieferorthopädische Behandlung dauert durchschnittlich 12 bis 24 Monate und ist vom Schweregrad der Zahnfehlstellung, von der Behandlungsplanung und von der Compliance des Patienten/der Patientin abhängig. Die Gefahr, dass Karies entsteht, Gingivarezessionen oder Wurzelresorptionen, steigt mit zunehmender Behandlungszeit. Ziel dieses Artikels ist es, eine Übersicht über die molekularbiologischen Abläufe der Zahnbewegung zu liefern und Möglichkeiten zu beschreiben, wie dieser Prozess beeinflusst werden kann. Osteoblasten und Osteoklasten spielen eine zentrale Rolle im Knochenumbau und damit in der Zahnbewegung und können durch viele Faktoren beeinflusst werden. Es gibt chirurgische oder nichtinvasive Maßnahmen, welche die Zahnbewegung beschleunigen, aber auch Medikamente, die die Zahnbewegung verlangsamen können.
Venous Thrombosis and SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Zdanyte Monika , Rath Dominik , Gawaz Meinrad , Geisler Tobias
Published: December 2021

SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2) infection is associated with high risk of venous and arterial thrombosis. Thrombotic complications, especially pulmonary embolism, lead to increased all-cause mortality in both intensive care unit and noncritically ill patients. Damage and activation of vascular endothelium, platelet activation, followed by thrombotic and fibrinolytic imbalance as well as hypercoagulability are the key pathomechanisms in immunothrombosis leading to a significant increase in thromboembolism in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) compared with other acute illnesses. In this review article, we discuss the incidence and prognosis, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of venous thromboembolism in patients with COVID-19 disease, based on clinical experience and research available to date.
Vom Potenzial der Integrativen Medizin
Authors: Langhorst Jost
Published: December 2021

Unser Gesprächspartner: Herr Univ.-Prof. Dr. med. Jost Langhorst
Die ketogene Ernährung
Authors: Reuß-Borst Monika , Kämmerer Ulrike
Published: December 2021

Es gibt bislang nur wenige Studien, die den Einfluss einer streng kohlenhydratreduzierten, sehr fettreichen, sog. „ketogenen“ Kost auf den Verlauf einer Krebserkrankung untersuchten. Da eine solche Kostform längerfristig Schwierigkeiten bei der Compliance zu Hause bereitet, ist ein supportiver Therapieansatz evtl. sinnvoller, weil er in Anlehnung an Fastenkuren mit den oxidativen Krebstherapien kombiniert werden kann.
Hausärzteschaft und die Standortwahl – Ergebnisse einer Befragung
Authors: Baum Corinna , Haering Alexander , Waehlert Lilia , Werbeck Anna
Published: December 2021

Die flächendeckende Versorgung mit Hausärzt*innen stellt in vielen Bundesländern ein zunehmendes Problem dar.

Zielsetzung Ziel des Beitrags ist es, sozioökonomische und sozialpsychologische Einflussfaktoren auf die Standortwahl zu untersuchen, die relevant für die Standortentscheidung sein können.

Methodik Grundlage der Analyse ist eine Befragung von Medizinstudierenden und Hausärzt*innen.

Ergebnisse Unsere Auswertung legt nahe, dass sozioökonomische Faktoren wie Einwohnerzahl des Heimatorts und Familie bei der Standortwahl entscheidend sind. Nur 8,2 % der befragten Medizinstudierenden planen eine Niederlassung in einem Dorf.

Schlussfolgerung Unsere Ergebnisse bestätigen die Diskussion um abnehmende medizinische Versorgung im ländlichen Raum und legen nahe, dass ein Fokus auf sozioökonomische Faktoren bei der Anreizsetzung für Landärzt*innen hilfreich sein könnte.
Omega-3-Fettsäuren in der Behandlung der gynäkologischen Onkologie
Authors: Katzler Olaf
Published: December 2021

Das Mammakarzinom ist die häufigste Krebsart der Frau. Zu den Ernährungsrisiken, die die Karzinombildung begünstigen können, zählt u. a. ein gestörtes Omega-6/Omega-3-Verhältnis. Besonders die marinen Omega-3-Fettsäuren EPA und DHA weisen Antiangiogenese- und Antitumor-Eigenschaften auf. Studien zufolge verringert der Konsum von 85 g Fisch täglich das Risiko für Brust- und Darmkrebs deutlich. Allerdings muss der zunehmende Schadstoffgehalt von Fischen beachtet werden. Als Alternative bieten sich gereinigte Fisch- oder Algenöle an. In zahlreichen Studien mit Karzinomen unterschiedlicher Lokalisation deutet sich an, dass die Supplementierung von EPA und DHA das progressionsfreie sowie das Gesamtüberleben erhöht und die Lebensqualität verbessert.
Validity of the Novel Radiological Classification System of the Distal Femur
Authors: Akkaya Mustafa , Simsek Mehmet Emin , Akcaalan Serhat , Caglar Ceyhun , Gursoy Safa , Citak Mustafa
Published: December 2021

Objective Aseptic loosening (AL) is among the most important causes of failure after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). However, while there are numerous underlying causes of AL, the
morphometry of the distal femur and intramedullary canal has not been sufficiently demonstrated. This study aimed to show the interobserver and intraobserver reliability and validity of
the Citak classification, which has been recently defined according to the morphometry of the distal femur and provides a risk factor definition for AL.

Materials and Methods A total of 200 patients whose standardized anteroposterior (AP) and lateral images of the knee joint were obtained between October 2019 and April 2020 were
retrospectively evaluated in this study. Patients with a history of extra-articular deformity and knee surgery were excluded from the study. For AL, morphologies of the distal femur were
identified by two observers using the new radiological classification system of the distal femur. Mean pairwise Cronbach’s alpha coefficient was used to assess the intra- and interobserver
agreement of the classification.

Results There was excellent interobserver agreement for the 20 cm proximal and 2 cm proximal to the lateral joint line (PLJL) and adductor tubercle (PAD), respectively. The mean
Cronbach’s alpha coefficient was 0.96 (range 0.764–0.944) for the PAD and 0.98 (range 0.734–0.929) for the PLJL. There was also an excellent intraobserver agreement, with 93% average
pairwise percent agreement for the index group and 95.5% average pairwise percent agreement for the anatomical classification group.

Conclusions The level of inter- and intraobserver agreement for the morphology of the distal femur was excellent in the new radiological classification system, which was shown to
be beneficial in the planning of revision knee arthroplasty for AL. However, there is a need for further studies in order to make a correlation of the classification with specific
intraoperative findings.
Recent Advances in Decarboxylative Conversions of Cyclic Carbonates and Beyond
Authors: Guo Wusheng , Yan Biwei
Published: December 2021

In recent years, functionalized cyclic organic carbonates have emerged as valuable building blocks for the construction of interesting and useful molecules upon decarboxylation under transition-metal catalysis. By employing suitable catalytic systems, the development of chemo-, regio-, stereo- and enantioselective methods for the synthesis of useful and interesting compounds has advanced greatly. On the basis of previous research on this topic, this short review highlights the synthetic potential of cyclic carbonates under transition-metal catalysis over the last two years.

1 Introduction

2 Transition-Metal-Catalyzed Decarboxylation of Vinyl Cyclic Carbonates

3 Zwitterionic Enolate Chemistry Based On Transition-Metal Catalysis

4 Decarboxylation of Alkynyl Cyclic Carbonates and Dioxazolones

5 Conclusions and Perspectives