bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Elektrochemische Untersuchungen zur Kinetik der Silberbild‐Farbbild‐Transformation in photographischen Systemen
Authors: Kramp E. , Schaller R.
Published: August 2023

Der farbbildbildende Schritt des Silberfarbbleichverfahrens besteht in der Übertragung der Reduktionsäquivalente des entwickelten Silbers auf den diffusionsfest in die Gelatineschicht eingebauten Azofarbstoff durch den als Redoxüberträger wirkenden Katalysator A. Die Transport‐eigenschaften von A sowie seine Fähigkeit, gemäß nachfolgendem Schema magnified image aus der photographisch wirksamen Form H

Das gilt nur für chromogene Farbumkehrprozesse. Bei einem chromogenen Negativ/Positiv‐Prozeß laufen Latentbildentwicklung und Farbstoffaufbau gleichzeitig nebeneinander ab.

in die tautomere, photographisch inaktive Form H überzugehen, bestimmen weitgehend den Ablauf des Gesamtvorgangs. Das Transportverhalten verschiedener Verbindungen A in Gelatineschichten wurde durch potentiostatische Impulsfolgen an gelatineüberspannten Kohlenstoffelektroden erfaßt und durch Hinzuziehung radiochemischer Methoden sowie die Messung der stationären Diffusionsgeschwindigkeit aufgeklärt. Das reaktive Verhalten von A wurde, insbesondere im Hinblick auf die Radikal‐bildungskonstante K und die Geschwindigkeitskonstante k der Tautomeriereaktion, mit der rotierenden Scheiben‐Ring‐Elektrode sowie der Zweielektroden‐Dünnschicht‐Technik untersucht. Der Einfluß von Nebenreaktionen auf die Resultate und seine elektrochemische Erfassung werden diskutiert.
Ein Zweielektroden‐Dünnschichtverfahren zur Untersuchung von Halogenidadsorbaten an Festelektroden
Authors: Schmidt E. , Stucki S.
Published: August 2023

Die Adsorption von Halogeniden X− (ΔCl−, Br−, J−) an Ag−, Pt− und Au‐Elektroden in Sulfat‐ oder Perchloratlösung wurde mittels einer Zweielektroden‐Dünnschichttechnik untersucht. Die adsorbierte Halogenidmenge wird elektrolytisch an einer Ag/AgX‐Generatorelektrode erzeugt. wobei die X−‐Konzentration der Dünnschicht auf konstantem Wert gehalten wird. Gelöstes Ag+ wird an einer Au‐Minigridelektrode zwischen Adsorbat‐ und Generatorelektrode reduziert.

Die Halogenide bilden Adsorbate in der Größenordnung monoatomarer Bedeckungen an Au und Ag. Am Pt werden im Gebiet Er(Ag/AgCl) + 0.6 V > E > ErAg/Agcl) ‐ 0.3 V nur 0.4 nmol/cm2 an Cl− umgesetzt. Die Desorption von X− vom Ag wird durch die Bildung von Pb2‐‐Monoschichten erleichtert In Gegenwart von Ag+ wird die Icl‐Isotherme am Gold infolge Stabilisation durch Ag+‐Koadsorption nach negativeren Potentialen verschoben.
Multiplikationseffekt bei der Sensibilisierung organischer Molekülkristalle durch induzierte Feldemission
Authors: Killesreiter H.
Published: August 2023

Ein sandwichartiger Aufbau aus einem p‐Chloranilkristall und monomolekularen Schichten von Cyaninfarbstoff‐ und Fettsäuremolekülen wurde mit aufgedampften Aluminiumelektroden kontaktiert. Die Quantenausbeute für den sensibilisierten Photostrom ist bis zu mehreren Größenordnungen höher als eins. Die Strom‐Spannungsabhängigkeit, die Temperaturabhängigkeit und die Intensitätsabhängigkeit wurden untersucht. Die Deutung der Ergebnisse ist konsistent mit einem Modell, das durch eine lichtinduzierte Potentialbergänderung zwischen dem Kristall und der Elektrode eine zusätzliche Elektronenemission aus dem Metall erklärt
The Influence of the Inner Solvation Sphere on Electrochemical Outer Sphere Redox Reactions of Transition Metal Ions – a Quantum Mechanical Approach
Authors: Schmickler W.
Published: August 2023

The theory of Levich and Dogonadze is extended to include the inner hydration sphere of transition metal ions. It is shown that the inner sphere must be treated quantum mechanically; tunnel transitions of the system predominate even at normal temperatures. As a consequence the energy of activation and the transfer coefficient are temperature dependant. A prediction is made about the magnitude of : if the ligands of the oxidized species are more firmly bound than in the reduced species, is less than 0.5.
Solvatation = Lückenbildung + Anhaftung
Authors: Lange Erich
Published: August 2023

Die Solvatation einer Partikel, der Übergang aus der Gasphase in eine flüssige Mischphase, kann in zwei Teilschritte zerlegt gedacht werden: in die Bildung einer geeigneten Lücke in der Flüssigkeit und in die anschließende Anhaftung beim Eintritt der Partikel in diese Lücke. Die hierbei frei werdende Anhaftenergie ist theoretisch zur Abschätzung der Bindungskräfte zwischen der Partikel und dem Lösungsmittel besser geeignet als die Solvatationsenergie.
Development and validation of an ultra‐performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry method for the determination of baloxavir in rat plasma and its application to pharmacokinetic studies
Authors: Mu Hongli , Zhang Wenyu , Song Yuanming , Liang Rui , Zhao Hengli , Song Chunhong , Wen Qing
Published: August 2023

In this study, an ultra‐performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry method was established for the development and validation of baloxavir acid (BXA) concentrations and the active ingredients of the antiviral drug baloxavir marboxil (BXM). Further, the method was applied to study the pharmacokinetics of BXA. BXA was determined by the electrospray ionization multiple reaction monitoring positive ion mode, and the mass‐to‐charge ratios (m/z) of BXA and internal standard baloxavir‐d4 were 484.2 → 247.2 and 488.1 → 247.2. An Oasis max online column (2.1 × 20 mm, 30 μm) was used with 1% formic acid in water (A) and 2% formic acid in acetonitrile (B) as mobile phases at a flow rate of 0.5 mL·min−1 for chromatographic separation. The linearity was good in the range of 3–200 ng·mL−1 (r = 0.9994), with 3.00 ng·mL−1 lower limit of quantification. The relative standard deviation of the inter‐assay precision was less than or equal to 6.51%, and the accuracy was in the range of 91.28%–104.29%. This method is suitable for the determination of BXA and for performing pharmacokinetic studies in clinical research.
Development of an UHPLC–MS/MS method to determine cutaneous biodistribution of cannabidiol after topical application of cannabidiol gel assisted by iontophoresis
Authors: Kang Dongzhu , Wang Chenhui , Liu Wenqian , Yang Meiqing , Cheng Xiaohong , Chen Yong
Published: August 2023

Cannabidiol has potential for use in skin disease therapy, so it is important to know the cutaneous biodistribution of cannabidiol after topical application of cannabidiol formulations. However, currently existing quantification methods for the investigation of cannabidiol skin distribution are not optimal. This study aimed to establish a method for the determination of cannabidiol in skin samples by UHPLC–MS/MS. A BEH C18 (50.0 × 2.1 mm, 2.5 μm) column was used; the mobile phase consisted of acetonitrile–0.1% formic acid (70:30, v/v), the flow rate was 0.2 μl·min−1 and the column temperature was 30°C. Positive‐ion mode with multiple reaction monitoring detection was used to quantify cannabidiol (m/z 315.1 → 193.1) while diphenhydramine (m/z 256.3 → 167.08) served as the internal standard. Good linearity was shown in the range of 1–200 ng·ml−1 for cannabidiol with correlation coefficients of >0.999. The LLOQ was 1 ng·ml−1. The intra‐day and inter‐day RSDs of cannabidiol were all <2%. A cryo‐sectioning technique combined with the UHPLC–MS/MS method was used to successfully determine cannabidiol levels in a series of very thin skin layers.
International consensus for a dissection room quality system (DRQS): A Delphi panel study
Authors: Dalmau‐Pastor M. , Alvarez Toledo N. , Valdivia‐Gandur I. , Tubbs R. S. , Vázquez‐Osorio T. , de Anta J. M. , Simon de Blas C. , Prats‐Galino A. , Loukas M. , Manzanares‐Cespedes M. C.
Published: August 2023

Dissection Rooms (DRs) are key facilities that allow teaching and research on human anatomy, where students and researchers work with human bodies to acquire, increase, or create new knowledge. Usually, DRs work with a Body Donation Program (BDP), where living donors bequeath their bodies for use in teaching and research after they expire. Despite DRs being part of universities worldwide, no common guidelines, regulations, or quality management systems (QMS) exist that could be applied to different countries. With that purpose in mind, we aimed to develop a QMS that could be applied to DRs globally, using a Delphi panel to achieve consensus about the items that should constitute the QMS. The panel was constituted by 20 anatomy professors from 20 different countries, and the 167 standards to create the rules or guidelines that constitute the QMS were divided in five categories: direction, body donation, students, instructors, and research. After two rounds of revisions, 150 standards were considered “essential” or “important” by more than 70% of the participants, thus being incorporated to the Dissection Room Quality System (DRQS). The results of this panel represent a minimum list of items of the DRQS for improving the functioning of DRs globally.
Risk assessments for possible school shooters
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: August 2023

Bridging law enforcement and mental health care is tricky, and in the case of possible violence in a student, this relationship can be especially strained. The chilling phrase “anyone could have stopped me” was the title of a session on this topic at the American Psychiatric Association meeting last spring.
Expanding the Genetic Code: Incorporation of Functional Secondary Amines via Stop Codon Suppression
Authors: Gran‐Scheuch Alejandro , Bonandi Elisa , Drienovská Ivana
Published: August 2023

Enzymes are attractive catalysts for chemical industries, and their use has become a mature alternative to conventional chemical methods. However, biocatalytic approaches are often restricted to metabolic and less complex reactivities, given the limited amount of functional groups present. This drawback can be addressed by incorporating non‐canonical amino acids (ncAAs) harboring new‐to‐nature chemical groups. Inspired by organocatalysis, we report the design, synthesis and characterization of a panel of ncAAs harboring functional secondary amines and their cellular incorporation into different protein scaffolds. D/L‐pyrrolidine‐ and D/L‐piperidine‐based ncAAs were successfully site‐specifically incorporated into proteins via stop codon suppression methodology. To demonstrate the utility of these ncAAs, the catalytic performance of the obtained artificial enzymes was investigated in a model Michael addition reaction. The incorporation of pyrrolidine‐ and piperidine‐ based ncAAs significantly expands the available toolbox for protein engineering and chemical biology applications.
Designing and implementation of internet of things (IoT) on physico‐biological treatment of wastewater
Authors: Das Sujata , Sarkar Avijit Deb , Singh Shalini
Published: August 2023

The use of Internet of Things (IoT) in industries is not new; however, the amalgamation of IoT and Biotechnology is still less explored. IoT in wastewater treatment comes with a full suite including cloud and its corresponding ecosystem. The available cloud‐based systems are advantageous, but costly and tightly coupled to their own cloud infrastructure. Opportunities are limited for the creation of a hybrid/multiple cloud model as it's difficult to integrate with the legacy system(s) and/or customized systems. The current investigation focuses on designing architechture of an open source IoT platform on an effluent treatment plant (ETP) protoype of textile industry. The designed prototype includes physical (adsorption) and biological (Rotating Biological Contactor, RBC, immobilized with white rot fungus) processes. IoT has been used for automated data monitoring of pH and ultrasound (for effluent flow from one tank to another, with respect to the water level, for processing). The process operated under an optimized pH (6.53±0.15) with reduction of representative wastewater quality parameters, biological & chemical oxygen demand, total dissolved solids, total suspended solids and optical density by 78.9, 52.15, 91.6, 20.3 and 88.8%, respectively. The findings demonstrated the reliability of the designed system and the analytics on treatment facilities.
Symbol error probability of mmWave communications with transmit antenna selection and RISs under the impacts of hardware impairments
Authors: Vinh Nguyen Van
Published: August 2023

In practice, hardware impairments (HIs) often exist in wireless devices, especially in low‐cost device systems. However, previous reports usually ignored HIs due to the computational complexity in mathematical derivations, particularly in millimeter‐wave (mmWave) communications. This article proposes the usage of transmit antenna selection (TAS) and multiple reconfigurable intelligent surfaces (RISs) to address HIs in mmWave communications. In particular, TAS is utilized at the source to increase the received signal power at the destination and reduce the effects of HIs. Multiple channel gains from RISs are combined with the classical source‐destination channel gain at the destination. The symbol error probability (SEP) expression of the mmWave communications with TAS and RISs under the effects of HIs (shortened as the TAS‐RISs‐HIs communications) is formulated over Nakagami‐
channels and verified through Monte Carlo simulations. The effects of HIs on the SEP of TAS‐RISs‐HIs communications are demonstrated through numerical illustrations. Specifically, the SEP of the TAS‐RISs‐HIs communications is significantly higher than the SEP of the ideal hardware communications with TAS and RISs, especially in the high transmit power regime. As a result, ignoring HIs when evaluating the SEP of the mmWave communications can result in some inappropriate conclusions. Moreover, the joint and separate advantages of TAS and RISs are thoroughly analyzed when comparing the SEPs in the cases with and without TAS, with and without RISs.
Cytomorphologic panorama of giant cell tumour of tendon sheath
Authors: Suneja Priya , Diwaker Preeti , Ranjan Karishma
Published: August 2023

Background

Giant Cell Tumour of Tendon Sheath (GCTTS) is a slow growing benign soft tissue tumour arising from synovium of tendon sheath or joint. These tumours occur more frequently in upper limbs, especially hands. In the present study, we aimed to evaluate the cytomorphological spectrum of GCTTS.

Methods

This retrospective study includes a total of 56 cases of GCTTS diagnosed over a period of 8 years. The clinical and radiological details of these cases were retrieved from the cytopathology records and detailed cytomorphological features were studied and analysed. Histopathological correlation was done in 16/56 cases, where follow‐up was available.

Results

The mean age of patients at the time of presentation was 32 years and were predominantly females (68%). The most common site of GCTTS was fingers (76%), followed by foot, wrist and toes. The most consistent finding on cytology was stromal cells (100%) of polygonal, spindle and plasmacytoid morphology with interspersed multinucleated osteoclastic giant cells (100%), followed by binucleated stromal cells (75%), xanthoma cells (61%) and hemosiderin laden macrophages (52%). Presence of proteinaceous fluid background was also observed in 50% of the cases.

Conclusion

GCTTS can be diagnosed with certainty on FNAC based on characteristic cytomorphological features in an appropriate clinical and radiological setting. FNAC plays a pivotal role in diagnosing GCTTS and differentiating it from other giant cell rich lesions, thus obviating the need of tissue biopsy for diagnosis, which in turn helps the clinician in timely and adequate management of the patient.
Metastatic juvenile granulosa cell tumor in abdominal wall
Authors: Biswas Dipanwita , Duggal Nisha , Lal Raghav , Dey Pranab
Published: August 2023

Juvenile granulosa cell tumor (JGCT) is an uncommon ovarian tumor. There are only a few cases in the literature that depict the cytomorphology of JGCT at the primary/metastatic site. We described the fine‐needle aspiration cytology of a recurrent metastatic JGCT of the anterior abdominal wall, 5 years post‐surgery (total abdominal hysterectomy with bilateral salpingo‐oophorectomy).
Fear response of rat pups to a non‐aversive social stimulus: Evidence for the involvement of memory processes
Authors: Zuluaga María José , Agrati Daniella , Athaíde Vanessa , Ferreira Annabel , Uriarte Natalia
Published: August 2023

Learning processes in rats during early development are importantly mediated by the mother, which represents the primary source of environmental information. This study aimed to determine whether aversive early experiences can induce the expression of pups' fear responses toward a non‐aversive stimulus as a consequence of a memory process. First, we determined pups’ fear responses toward an anesthetized female after being exposed to this stimulus or an empty cage together with their mothers from Postnatal Day (PNDs) 1 to 4. Second, we evaluated if the administration of the protein synthesis inhibitor cycloheximide (CHX; 0.2 mg/kg, subcutaneously (sc).) disrupted the reconsolidation processes and abolished the fear response on PND 9. Only female pups previously exposed to the female intruder expressed fear responses toward an anesthetized female on PND 8. CHX administration to female pups immediately after exposure to an anesthetized female on PND 8 suppressed fear responses on PND 9, indicating that the fear expression was the result of a memory process, probably mediated by the mother. These findings demonstrated that early experiences can shape responses to social stimuli in a sex‐dependent manner and emphasize the critical role of the mother in influencing fear learning in a social context.
Postural analysis reveals persistent changes in paper wasp foundress behavioral state after conspecific challenge
Authors: Legan Andrew W. , Vogt Caleb C. , Sheehan Michael J.
Published: August 2023

Vigilant animals detect and respond to threats in the environment, often changing posture and movement patterns. Vigilance is modulated not only by predators but also by conspecific threats. In social animals, precisely how conspecific threats alter vigilance behavior over time is relevant to long‐standing hypotheses about social plasticity. We report persistent effects of a simulated conspecific challenge on behavior of wild northern paper wasp foundresses, Polistes fuscatus. During the founding phase of the colony cycle, conspecific wasps can usurp nests from the resident foundress, representing a severe threat. We used automated tracking to monitor the movement and posture of P. fuscatus foundresses in response to simulated intrusions. Wasps displayed increased movement, greater bilateral wing extension, and reduced antennal separation after the threat was removed. These changes were not observed after presentation with a wooden dowel. By rapidly adjusting individual behavior after fending off an intruder, paper wasp foundresses might invest in surveillance of potential threats, even when such threats are no longer immediately present. The prolonged vigilance‐like behavioral state observed here is relevant to plasticity of social recognition processes in paper wasps.
Distributional responses to climate change of two maple species in southern China
Authors: Liu De Tuan , Chen Jian Ying , Sun Wei Bang
Published: August 2023

Climate change is a major factor affecting biodiversity and species distribution, particularly of montane species. Species may respond to climate change by shifting their range to higher elevations. The southeastern Qinghai‐Tibetan Plateau (QTP) and the Hengduan Mountains are considered as global biodiversity hotspots. However, information on the response of maple species to climate change in these regions was limited. Therefore, we selected two maple species that occur there and assessed changes in their habitat suitability under past, present and future climate scenarios in Biomod2. The results showed that temperature seasonality (bio4) was the most critical factor influencing their potential distributions. The distribution of potentially suitable habitat for Acer caesium and Acer stachyophyllum was predicted to be larger during the LGM compared to the present. Under the current climate scenario, the largest areas of potentially suitable habitat for these species were mainly located in southeastern Tibet, the Hengduan Mountains in northwestern Yunnan and western Sichuan, the Qinling‐Daba Mountains in southern Gansu and the Wumeng‐Daliang Mountains in northeastern Yunnan, western Guizhou and southeastern Sichuan. Under future climate change scenarios, the predicted loss of suitable habitat areas for these two species ranged from 13.78% to 45.71% and the increase ranged from 18.88% to 57.98%, with an overall increasing trend. The suitable habitat areas were predicted to shift towards the eastern parts of the QTP under both the pessimistic and optimistic future climate change scenarios in the 2050s and the 2070s, which became evident as global warming intensified, particularly in the eastern QTP and the Hengduan Mountains. Our results highlight the possibility that the diverse topography along altitudinal gradients in the QTP and the Hengduan Mountains may potentially mitigate the range contraction of mountain plants in response to climate warming. These findings provide a basis for planning conservation areas, planting and species conservation in the mountainous areas of southern China under the anticipated global warming.
Photocatalytic C−H Functionalization of Nitrogen Heterocycles Mediated by a Redox Active Protecting Group
Authors: Pizzio Marianela G. , Mata Ernesto G. , Dauban Philippe , Saget Tanguy
Published: August 2023

Herein, we report a photocatalytic strategy for the C−H functionalization of saturated azaheterocycles under mild conditions with only one equivalent of starting material. Our strategy is based on a redox active benzamide protecting group that is activated via a halogen‐atom transfer (XAT) process to trigger the formation of an α‐amino radical. This nucleophilic radical intermediate was then engaged in Giese additions and radical cross couplings to afford C−H alkylated and arylated products.
Evolution of the corrosion layer of Q235 steel in simulated fire‐scene smoke
Authors: Zhang Shengyuan , Cao Yiyue , Wang Peibin , Jin Jing , Deng Liang
Published: August 2023

The ability to accurately identify fire patterns is the fundamental requirement for fire investigations. The corrosion layers of steel in fire scenes exhibit three distinct characteristics. First, due to steel's nonflammable nature, steel patterns can be preserved better at the fire site than patterns formed on other combustible materials; second, both the high temperature and the smoke during the fire affect the high‐temperature oxidation process; and third, the corrosion layer of steels inevitably undergoes further evolution after the fire because of the subsequent room‐temperature corrosion. This study focuses on investigating Q235 steel because of its extensive use in construction and vehicles. The pattern evolution processes of high‐temperature oxidation at elevated temperatures in air, polyethylene (PE), and polyvinyl‐chloride (PVC) combustion smoke and the corresponding subsequent corrosion at room temperature were systematically investigated from the perspective of macroscopic and microscopic morphology. The results showed that the smoke atmosphere played an important role in the formation of the corrosion layer of Q235 steel. Compared with samples oxidized in air, samples oxidized in PE combustion smoke exhibited a uniform and dense oxide layer on the surface, which inhibited the corrosion at room temperature further. The PVC combustion smoke accelerated the high‐temperature oxidation of the sample, and its influence on the subsequent room‐temperature oxidation process was closely correlated with the temperature of the high‐temperature oxidation. The results of this study provide important references for understanding the formation of the corrosion layer of Q235 steel for fire investigations.
A Global Challenge: Sustainability of Submicrometer PEO and PVP Fiber Production
Authors: Amarakoon Manul , Homer‐Vanniasinkam Shervanthi , Edirisinghe Mohan
Published: August 2023

The field of submicrometer polymeric production currently has a predominant research focus on morphology and application. In comparison, the sustainability of the manufacture of submicrometer polymeric fibers, specifically the energy efficiency, is less explored. The principles of Green Chemistry and Green Engineering outline frameworks for the manufacture of “greener” products, where the most significant principles in the two frameworks are shown to be centered on energy efficiency, material wastage, and the use of non‐hazardous materials. This study examines the power consumption during the production of Polyethylene oxide (PEO) and Polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) submicrometer fibers under magnitudes of the key forming parameters to generate fibers via pressure spinning. The energy consumption, along with the fiber diameter, and production rate during the manufacture of fibers is predominantly attributed to the characteristics of polymeric solutions utilized.
Elite skiers' experiences of heat‐ and moisture‐exchanging devices and training and competition in the cold: A qualitative survey
Authors: Jong Mats , Hanstock Helen G. , Stenfors Nikolai , Ainegren Mats
Published: August 2023

Background and Aims

Winter endurance athletes have a high prevalence of exercise‐induced bronchoconstriction (EIB) and asthma, probably due to repeated and prolonged inhalation of cold and dry air. Heat‐ and moisture‐exchanging devices (HME) warm and humidify inhaled air and prevent EIB. The aim of this study was to share cross‐country skiers and biathletes' experiences of training and competition in low temperatures, views on temperature limits, usage of HME, and consequences of cold exposure on their health.

Methods

Eleven Swedish World Championship or Olympic medalists in cross‐country skiing and biathlon were interviewed and transcripts were analyzed using qualitative content analysis.

Results

Participants described how cold temperatures predominantly affected the airways, face, and extremities. During training, extreme cold was managed by choosing warmer clothing, modification of planned sessions, use of HME, delaying training, or changing location. In competition, participants described limited possibility for such choices and would prefer adjustment of existing rules (i.e., more conservative temperature limits), especially since they understood elite skiing in low temperatures to present an occupational hazard to their health. Participants had at times used HMEs during training in cold environments but described mixed motives for their use—that HMEs warm and humidify cold inhaled air but introduce additional resistance to breathing and can cause problems due to mucus and ice build‐up. Skiers also perceived that they had become more sensitive to cold during the latter part of their careers.

Conclusions

The present study gives a unique insight into the “cold” reality of being an elite athlete in skiing and biathlon. Cold exposure results in negative health consequences that are preventable, which means that rules must be followed, and organizers should acknowledge responsibility in protecting athletes from occupational hazards. Development of evidence‐based guidelines for protection of athletes' respiratory health should be a focus for future translational research.
The psychometric properties of the Persian version of the Multiple Sclerosis Self‐Management Scale‐Revised: A cross‐sectional methodological study
Authors: Atapour Mahnaz , Maghaminejad Farzaneh , Ghiyasvandian Shahrzad , Rahimzadeh Mitra , Hosseini Samaneh
Published: August 2023

Backgrounds and Aims

Patients with multiple sclerosis (pwMS) need self‐management (SM) skills to manage their symptoms and problems. An essential step to SM improvement is accurate SM assessment using valid and reliable instruments. The aim of this study was to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Persian version of the Multiple Sclerosis Self‐Management Scale‐Revised (MSSMS‐R).

Methods

This cross‐sectional methodological study was conducted from December 2021 to June 2022. The face, content, and construct‎ validity of MSSMS‐R were evaluated. Construct validity was evaluated through confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and evaluating convergent and discriminant‎ validity using the data obtained from 210 randomly selected MS patients. The reliability of the scale was also evaluated through the test–retest stability and the internal consistency evaluation methods.

Results

The face validity was confirmed and the content validity ratio and index values of all items were more than 0.62 and 0.79, respectively. CFA revealed the acceptable construct validity of the scale after omitting items 21 and 22. In convergent and discriminant validity evaluation, the total score of MSSMS‐R had significant positive correlation with the total mean scores of the Multiple Sclerosis Self‐Efficacy Scale (r = 0.36; p < 0.001) and the physical health composite‎ (r = 0.31; p < 0.001) and the mental health composite‎ (r = 0.39; p < 0.001) dimensions of the 54‐item Multiple Sclerosis Quality of Life scale ‎and significant inverse correlation with the total mean score of the Beck Depression Inventory (r = –0.28; p < 0.001). The Cronbach's alpha values of the scale and its subscales were 0.86 and 0.65–0.90 and their test–retest intraclass correlation coefficients were 0.97 and 0.95–0.99, respectively.

Conclusion

The Persian MSSMS‐R is a valid and reliable scale and can be used in future studies for SM assessment among pwMS.
The mediating role of quality of life on depression and medication adherence among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Yorke Ernest , Boima Vincent , Ganu Vincent , Tetteh John , Twumasi Louisa , Ekem‐Ferguson George , Kretchy Irene , Mate‐Kole Christopher C.
Published: August 2023

Background and Aim

Patients living with diabetes mellitus have a high burden of psychological distress such as depression and anxiety as well as impaired quality of life, which may negatively impact their adherence to medications, glucose control, and health‐related costs.

This study assessed the impact of quality of life and depression on medication adherence among patients with type 2 diabetes (type 2 diabetes mellitus [T2DM]) in a tertiary care setting in Ghana

Methods

The study was a cross‐sectional study involving 238 patients with diabetes aged 18 years and above. Validated tools were used to assess medication adherence, depressive symptoms, and quality of life. Structural Equation Modeling was adopted to examine the mediation effect of quality of life on the relationship between depression and medication adherence among participants.

Results

The mean age of the participants was 58.82 ± 13.49, and 169 (71.0%) out of a total of 238 respondents were females. Depression had a significant direct relationship with the quality of life of respondents [aβ (95% confidence interval, CI) = −0.20 (−0.03, −0.00), p < 0.05; −0.21 (−0.41, −0.01) p < 0.05, respectively] and indirect relationship with quality of life [aβ (95% CI) = −0.01 (−0.02, −0.004) p < 0.001]. Educational status and religion both showed a significant indirect relationship with quality of life [aβ (95% CI) = 0.06 (0.07, 0.12), p < 0.05; 0.18 (0.01, 0.35) p < 0.05, respectively]. The mediating effect of quality of life on the relationship between depression and medication adherence was significant (Sobel = −3.19, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Depression, medication adherence, and quality of life were higher among older adults with T2DM. Depression was also found to have a strong negative association with both medication adherence and quality of life. Interventions to screen for depression and to improve the quality of life in patients living with diabetes are also recommended and this should go beyond the provision of standard treatments to explore further the mechanisms of this relationships.
Outbreak of severe myocarditis in England: Havoc by a harmless virus
Authors: Anis Heeba , Basha Shaik Akbar , Tiwari Angad , Alemayehu Abel , Nazir Abubakar , Atulinda Linda , Wojtara Magda , Uwishema Olivier
Published: August 2023

Background

The World Health Organization (WHO) has been alerted to a concerning upsurge of severe myocarditis, an inflammatory heart condition, in neonates within Wales and South West England. The myocarditis cases are being intricately associated with enterovirus infection, belonging to the Picornaviridae family. The concerned pathogen poses a significant global disease burden, with an estimated 10 to 15 million symptomatic cases occurring annually in the United States alone. Neonates are particularly vulnerable with children under the age of one accounting for approximately 40% of enterovirus infections.

Material and Methods

A comprehensive literature search was conducted using various databases including ClinicalTrials, Google Scholar, PubMed, ScienceDirect, MEDLINE, and Ovid Resources. The search strategy included utilizing keywords such as “myocarditis,” “Randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Only articles written in English were considered, and selection criteria included relevance to the research objectives, reasonable sample sizes, and robust methodology. In addition to the identified articles, meta‐analyses, animal models and studies, and references from the selected articles were also examined to ensure a comprehensive review of the literature.

Results

Ten hospitalized neonates, reported in the United Kingdom (UK), with positive PCR tests were reported to have myocarditis, predominantly caused by coxsackieviruses. The current situation in the region has brought global attention. With this study, we hope to draw attention to the critical aspects of the illness and, more crucially, the present strategies required to control the disease outbreak in England.

Discussion

Current European Society of Cardiology (ESC) recommendations for the treatment of acute heart failure apply. Emerging research supports the use of immunosuppressive medication in some circumstances. Patients are advised to avoid aerobic activities for several months after healing. Neonatal enterovirus infections can vary in how they respond to IVIG therapy. The majority of enterovirus infections are self‐limited, require no special therapy, and only little supportive care is required.

Conclusion

The recent elevation in numbers for reported severe myocarditis in neonates within Wales and South West England, linked to enterovirus infection, poses a significant public health concern. Myocarditis caused by enteroviruses, particularly Group B coxsackieviruses, is associated with significant mortality rates. Diagnosis is supported by non‐invasive techniques and cardiac enzyme blood tests. Treatment modalities primarily involve a palliative approach.
COVID‐19 and tobacco products use among US adults, 2021 National Health Interview Survey
Authors: Ebrahimi Kalan Mohammad , Jebai Rime , Li Wei , Gautam Prem , Alemohammad Seyedeh Yasaman , Mortazavizadeh Zeinab , Kenneth D. Ward , Chakraborty Aditya , Dargahi Abbasabad Ghader , Behaleh Raed , Bursac Zoran , Ben Taleb Ziyad
Published: August 2023

Background

Smoking and vaping are linked to lung inflammation and lowered immune response.

Objective

Examine the prevalence of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) cases, testing, symptoms, and vaccine uptake, and associations with tobacco product use.

Methods

Data came from the 2021 National Health Interview Survey. The 2021 Sample Adult component included 29,482 participants with a response rate of 50.9%. We investigated COVID‐19‐related outcomes by tobacco product use status and reported national estimates. Multivariable regression models were performed accounting for demographics (e.g., age, sex, poverty level), serious psychological distress, disability, and chronic health conditions.

Results

In our regression analyses, odds of self‐reported COVID‐19 infection were significantly lower for combustible tobacco product users (vs. nonusers; adjusted odds ratio [AOR = 0.73; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.62–0.85]). Combustible tobacco users also were less likely to report ever testing for COVID‐19 (AOR = 0.88; 95% CI = 0.79–0.98), ever testing positive for COVID‐19 (AOR = 0.66; 95% CI = 0.56–0.77), and ever receiving COVID‐19 vaccine (AOR = 0.58; 95% CI = 0.51–0.66) compared with their nonuser peers. Compared to nonusers, users of any type of tobacco who contracted COVID‐19 had higher odds of losing smell (AOR = 1.36; 95%CI = 1.04–1.77), which was more pronounced among exclusive e‐cigarette users. The odds of receiving vaccine were lower for all current exclusive tobacco product users compared to nonusers (AORs = 0.40 to 0.70).

Conclusions

Continued monitoring of tobacco product use and its association with respiratory diseases such as COVID‐19 is crucial to inform public health policies and programs. In addition, efforts to promote vaccination, especially among tobacco product users, are warranted.
Integrated Systems Architectural Modeling with Architectural Trade Study of a UAV Surface‐less Flight Control Systems for Wildfire Detection and Communication utilizing MBSAP
Authors: Bokhtier Golam M. , Crawford Setrige W. , Shahroudi Kamran Eftekhari
Published: August 2023

In this paper, we report our progress on integrating a model‐based system engineering methodology with a system architectural trade study applied to flight control systems of a locally owned and operated, cost effective Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) design utilizing the concepts of Model‐Based Systems Architecture Processes (MBSAP). The primary objective of the UAV is to monitor wildfires and to gather information and to provide surveillance data for predicting and preventing wildfires [1]. We describe our experience with a holistic approach to architect flight controls (the System‐of‐Interest), in a way that is tightly coupled with high‐level stakeholder needs and concerns, operational scenarios, (normal, inadvertent, and mis‐) use cases, Context System, and Enabling Systems.

Several architectural variants of the Surface‐less Flight Controls (SFC) were traded. Our systemic approach showed that classical flight controls are feasible for the baseline UAV. It also helped us identify a novel architecture with a potential to drastically improve UAV performance (range, survey time), UAV weight, and specific cost. Our approach has resulted in an architecture that has the potential to significantly reduce the costs of manufacturing as well as operating UAVs, at the same time it drastically improves their performance. This development could mean widely increased availability and improved effectiveness of UAVs in fire detection and prevention.
I‐SHARE – INCOSE Systems Heuristics Application Repository: Sharing Systems Engineering Knowhow and Experience
Authors: Dori Dov , McKinney Dorothy , Wang Gan , Jackson Scott
Published: August 2023

Systems engineering (SE) is a transdisciplinary discipline that links all the engineering disciplines involved in defining a system throughout its lifecycle. As such, SE involves heuristics to a significant extent. A heuristic relates to a formulation based on experts' experience serving as a guide in the investigation or solution of a problem. To be usable, heuristics should be memorable and pithy. A team of INCOSE Fellows created the INCOSE Systems Heuristics Application Repository, or I‐SHARE in short, in which over 600 SE‐related heuristics are curated and shared, covering subjects that include SE competencies, lifecycle stages, expertise, operational domains, and system attributes. In this paper, we describe the I‐SHARE, the motivation and stages of its creation and compilation, and ways through which this knowledge base can be an invaluable service to the SE community.
Common Language for Systems by the ISO/IEC 81346 Reference Model
Authors: Balslev Henrik , Barré Thomas
Published: August 2023

This paper focuses on the practical application of system architecture modeling and reference enabling in systems engineering, introducing the fundamental principles and proof of concept. The fundamental principles are defined by ISO/IEC 81346 standard series, which provides a common language for systems across all engineering disciplines through the Reference Designation System (RDS). RDS is used to create a reference model with unambiguous identifiers representing system breakdowns in different views called aspects, allowing for clear reference designations of system elements and their relationships, complying with the basic rules of ISO 704 – Terminology work. The practical use of this system reference model is demonstrated through a selected use case: the Digital Design, Manufacturing & Services (DDMS) transformation program at AIRBUS S.A.S. (Toulouse, France). This case includes practical experience and a brief introduction to tools that assist with the usage of ontologies and terminology work in daily life.
Explainable AI and Counterfactuals for Test and Evaluation of Intelligent Engineered Systems
Authors: Raz Ali K. , Miller William , Chang Kuo‐Chu , Lin Yan , Blasch Erik
Published: August 2023

Systems Engineering (SE) based test and evaluation (T&E) approaches have proven crucial for successful realization of most modern‐day complex systems and system‐of‐systems solutions. The design, test, and evaluation of engineered systems with many technologically advanced and complex components hinges on well‐structured integration and life cycle evolution process models, clearly defined requirements, along with controllability, observability, and stability (COS) of components that transcend to the system‐level. However, integration of machine learning (ML), deep learning (DL) and artificially intelligent (AI) components invalidates some SE foundations as the DL algorithms are primarily data‐driven with opaque decision‐making constructs. As a result, the current SE T&E approaches, although necessary, have become insufficient to evaluate the adoption of ML/DL/AI methods in engineered systems. This paper proposes two new approaches—explainable AI (xAI) and counterfactual testing and evaluation (cT&E)—as addition to the SE tool set for T&E of intelligent engineered systems. An example of SE T&E considerations is provided based on a conceptual aircraft control system implementation comparing as a classical controller and a DL‐based reinforcement learning controller.
Creativity and Innovation in Content Area Teaching
Authors: Gardner Dee
Published: August 2023

Maureen McLaughlin and Mary Ellen Vogt (Eds.). Norwood, MA: Christopher‐Gordon Publishers, 2000
Deep learning‐based ultra‐fast identification of Raman spectra with low signal‐to‐noise ratio
Authors: Liu Kunxiang , Chen Fuyuan , Shang Lindong , Wang Yuntong , Peng Hao , Liu Bo , Li Bei
Published: August 2023

Ensuring the correct use of cell lines is crucial to obtaining reliable experimental results and avoiding unnecessary waste of resources. Raman spectroscopy has been confirmed to be able to identify cell lines, but the collection time is usually 10–30 s. In this study, we acquired Raman spectra of five cell lines with integration times of 0.1 and 8 s, respectively, and the average accuracy of using long–short memory neural network to identify the spectra of 0.1 s was 95%, and the average accuracy of identifying the spectra of 8 s was 99.8%. At the same time, we performed data enhancement of 0.1 s spectral data by real‐valued non‐volume preserving method, and the recognition average accuracy of long–short memory neural networks recognition of the enhanced spectral data was improved to 96.2%. With this method, we shorten the acquisition time of Raman spectra to 1/80 of the original one, which greatly improves the efficiency of cell identification.
Umweltanalytik: Neue Spurenstoffe in Städten – neue Schadstoffe?
Authors: Irrgeher Johanna , Trimmel Simone
Published: August 2023

Bisher ist kaum untersucht, welche ökologischen Auswirkungen es hat, wenn Elemente für elektronische Geräte oder Energiegewinnung, darunter Cer, Niob oder Tantal, in die Umwelt gelangen, etwa aus der industriellen Verarbeitung oder Elektroschrott. Inzwischen gibt es analytische Methoden, um Spuren in Umweltproben nachzuweisen.
Pro & Contra PFAS‐Verbot: Für viele Anwendungen gibt es keine Alternativen
Authors: Holtmann Thomas
Published: August 2023

Mehrere EU‐Staaten haben vorgeschlagen, PFAS zu verbieten. Dabei ist eine differenzierte Vorgehensweise erforderlich.
Karriere in der Stahlindustrie: "Große Industrieanlagen haben mich immer schon fasziniert"
Authors: Zbikowski Frauke
Published: August 2023

Der Physikochemiker Matthias Krüger hat sich den Berufseinstieg in die Verfahrenstechnik zugetraut. Heute trägt er dazu bei, den CO2‐Fußabdruck von Stahlwerken zu verringern.
High‐resolution P‐ and S‐wavefield seismic investigations of a quick‐clay site in southwest of Sweden
Authors: Myrto Papadopoulou , Alireza Malehmir , Magdalena Markovic , Johan Berglund
Published: August 2023

Seismic investigations were performed at a site in the southwest of Sweden where major quick‐clay landslides have occurred in the past. Given the potential high risk of the area and the presence of medium infrastructures, the site posed a need for detailed investigations in a wide depth range and in high resolution. A high‐fold seismic survey was designed and conducted along two profiles using a 1–2 m receiver and shot spacing in order to retrieve both P‐ and S‐wavefield seismic images from vertical component data. The data were analysed by combining first‐break traveltime tomography and surface‐wave analysis as well as P‐ and S‐wavefield reflection seismic imaging. Using the first breaks, P‐wave velocity (VP) models were estimated, indicating the bedrock topography along the profiles and the sediment characteristics. The S‐wave velocity (Vs) models were estimated from the surface waves and indicated areas of low shear strength. Combined with VP and Vs models, this permits the estimation of VP/VS, a parameter that can indicate areas with high water content, significant for the detection of quick clays and possible liquefaction issues. The results are integrated with the P‐ and S‐wave reflection seismic images and compared with other geophysical investigations, such as magnetic and gravity data that were collected along the profiles.