bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Nanocomposites of PLA/ZnO nanofibers for medical applications: Antimicrobial effect, thermal, and mechanical behavior under cyclic stress
Authors: Nonato Renato C. , Mei Lucia H. I. , Bonse Baltus C. , Leal Claudenete V. , Levy Carlos E. , Oliveira Flavio A. , Delarmelina Camila , Duarte Marta C. T. , Morales Ana R. 
Published: February 2022

AbstractThe application of biodegradable and biocompatible polymer poly(lactic acid) (PLA) in the medical field has been widely studied. In this study, films of neat PLA and PLA containing 1 wt% ZnO nanofibers obtained by electrospinning (PLA/ZnO) were successfully molded by solvent‐cast three‐dimensional (3D) printing. Mechanical behavior was assessed by conventional dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) and by adapting the equipment conditions to simulate a mechanical fatigue test at human body temperature—cyclic stress in isotherm at 36.5°C. DMA results showed that for temperatures above 30°C, the storage module of PLA/ZnO was higher when compared to neat PLA, and in the fatigue test, PLA/ZnO withstood more than 3600 cycles while neat PLA failed after an average of 1768 cycles. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) tests revealed that cyclic stress did not cause changes in the degree of crystallinity of the PLA. The microdilution and plating methods were applied to bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella, and Escherichia coli) and to yeast (Candida albicans) and revealed the antimicrobial effect of ZnO nanofibers and the PLA/ZnO composite. The antimicrobial activity and fatigue resistance of PLA/ZnO nanocomposites indicate that the material has potential for application in bone implants.
Physicochemical properties of pullulan/chitosan/graphene oxide composite films
Authors: Román‐Doval Ramón , Gómez‐Sánchez Alejandro , Millán‐Casarrubias Elmer Joel , Prokhorov Evgen , Montejo‐Alvaro Fernando , de Luna Bugallo Andres , Hernández‐Iturriaga Montserrat , Leal‐Cervantes Marla , Luna‐Barcenas Gabriel , Mendoza Sandra 
Published: February 2022

AbstractWe report the production of pullulan (Pul)/chitosan (Chi)/graphene oxide (GO) composite films (CF‐Pul/Chi + GO). We observed that the addition of GO increases the film's roughness while keeping good GO dispersion. Both the strong interactions between Pul and Chi and the formation of hydrogen bonds between Chi and GO seem to be responsible for the formation of the composite film. The dielectric constant, Young's modulus and the tensile strength of the CF‐Pul/Chi + GO films exhibit maximum values at 1 μg mL−1 GO concentration. At GO concentrations higher than 1 μg mL−1, the interfacial layers between the polymer matrix and GO overlap, affecting the value of the dielectric constant and the mechanical properties of the films. Moreover, the 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay carried out on LL47 fibroblast cells reveals that the CF‐Pul/Chi + 1 μg mL−1 GO films are not cytotoxic. In this regard, CF‐Pul/Chi 50/50 + 1 μg mL−1 GO has remarkable properties to be considered for a safe film with potential uses in the food, cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries. © 2022 Society of Industrial Chemistry.
Factors that influence time to prosthesis receipt after lower limb amputation: A Cox proportional hazard model regression
Authors: Miller Taavy A. , Paul Rajib , Forthofer Melinda , Wurdeman Shane R. 
Published: February 2022

AbstractBackgroundEarly mobility, functional independence, and ambulation are associated benefits after lower limb amputation (LLA), whereas an increased risk of clinical complications is associated with no prosthesis.ObjectiveTo describe time to prosthesis receipt after amputation and to assess the impact of patient demographic and health factors on the rate of prosthesis receipt within 12 months post LLA.DesignA retrospective cohort analysis using commercial administrative claims data. Kaplan‐Meier and Cox proportional‐hazards models were applied to assess time to prosthesis receipt.SettingWatson/Truven administrative database 2014‐2016.ParticipantsAdults aged 18‐64 years with LLA who maintained their current insurance enrollment for 12 months after amputation.InterventionsIndependent variables included diabetes/vascular disease status, amputation level, age, gender, and region.Main Outcome MeasuresProsthesis receipt was defined based on the presence of codes billed for prosthesis services. Time was measured in days from date of amputation surgery.ResultsAmong the sample, 510 individuals maintained insurance enrollment for 12 months after amputation, of which 443 individuals received a prosthesis within that period (79% below knee and 21% above knee). The adjusted average rate of time to prosthesis receipt was 138 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 113–185) days. Individuals with diabetes/vascular disease were 22% (hazard ratio: 1.22, 95% CI: 1.02–1.49) more likely to receive a prosthesis earlier than individuals without diabetes/vascular disease and women received a prosthesis later than men at 141 (95% CI: 126–162) days versus 106 (95% CI: 96–119) days, respectively.ConclusionsThis study expands the understanding of factors that influence the likelihood of receiving a prosthesis along with the timing of prosthesis receipt after LLA among commercially insured adults. At least half of this sample received a prosthesis within 5 months or less. Disparities in timing and access to a prosthesis based on amputation level and gender were noted; future efforts are needed to address these issues.
Preparation and support for physical activity following hospital discharge after coronary artery bypass graft surgery: A survey of current practice in New Zealand
Authors: Gray Emily Anne , Skinner Margot Alison , Hale Leigh Anne , Bunton Richard Waldron 
Published: February 2022

AbstractBackground and PurposeEngagement in physical activity following coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery has many benefits and also many potential barriers, especially during the first few months. It is important to explore current clinical practice before investigating ways to optimally prepare and support people to progressively increase their physical activity post‐hospital discharge and to navigate the challenges. The aim of the study was to explore current practice in New Zealand hospital services for preparing and supporting people who have had CABG surgery to engage in physical activity following hospital discharge.MethodsLocality authorisation to participate in the study was sought from all 11 hospitals providing cardiac surgery services in New Zealand. The most senior health professional responsible for preparing people to engage in physical activity following CABG surgery was invited to participate by completing a purpose designed questionnaire on behalf of their hospital service. Respondents were also requested to provide any patient information handouts regarding progressive physical activity engagement following CABG surgery.ResultsResponses were received from all nine hospitals that granted locality authorisation. All nine hospitals prepared people to engage in aerobic exercise prior to discharge, predominantly through the provision of a walking schedule. In contrast, no hospitals provided information about engagement in resistance exercise. There was wide variability in both the advice provided regarding sternal precautions and time to return to activities of daily living. Additionally, the facilitation of some elements of self‐management for physical activity, in particular problem solving and providing follow up support outside of the cardiac rehabilitation setting was provided infrequently.DiscussionThe findings demonstrated variability in service delivery in a number of areas and highlighted potential areas for improvement in light of what is known from the literature. Provision of follow up support for those unable to access outpatient cardiac rehabilitation is a key need.
Structure and dynamics of the SARS‐CoV‐2 envelope protein monomer
Authors: Kuzmin Alexander , Orekhov Philipp , Astashkin Roman , Gordeliy Valentin , Gushchin Ivan 
Published: February 2022

AbstractCoronaviruses, especially severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2), present an ongoing threat to human wellbeing. Consequently, elucidation of molecular determinants of their function and interaction with the host is an important task. Whereas some of the coronaviral proteins are extensively characterized, others remain understudied. Here, we use molecular dynamics simulations to analyze the structure and dynamics of the SARS‐CoV‐2 envelope (E) protein (a viroporin) in the monomeric form. The protein consists of the hydrophobic α‐helical transmembrane domain (TMD) and amphiphilic α‐helices H2 and H3, connected by flexible linkers. We show that TMD has a preferable orientation in the membrane, while H2 and H3 reside at the membrane surface. Orientation of H2 is strongly influenced by palmitoylation of cysteines Cys40, Cys43, and Cys44. Glycosylation of Asn66 affects the orientation of H3. We also observe that the monomeric E protein both generates and senses the membrane curvature, preferably localizing with the C‐terminus at the convex regions of the membrane; the protein in the pentameric form displays these properties as well. Localization to curved regions may be favorable for assembly of the E protein oligomers, whereas induction of curvature may facilitate the budding of the viral particles. The presented results may be helpful for a better understanding of the function of the coronaviral E protein and viroporins in general, and for overcoming the ongoing SARS‐CoV‐2 pandemic.
Designing moulded pulp packaging using a topology optimization and superimpose method
Authors: Bahlau Jacob , Lee Euihark 
Published: February 2022

AbstractMoulded pulp is a paper‐based packaging solution that is fully biodegradable and has been growing in demand due to environmental considerations. While demand has been growing, many moulded pulp packaging designs are based on the experience and knowledge of the package designer, which can lead to avoidable design issues. To solve this issue, this paper introduces a moulded pulp packaging design method using topology optimization. Topology optimization provides a systematic way to find the conceptual optimum design by minimizing strain energy. Taking the results of the topology optimization and implementing a superimpose method, the design process can be more efficient than the conventional design method. As a result, the proposed method provides a design that reduces the maximum stress of the packaging structure. With the reduction in stress, an exhaustive search method is then used to reduce the thickness of the package to decrease material usage while maintaining stress reduction.
Robust discrete‐time fractional‐order control for an unmanned aerial vehicle based on disturbance observer
Authors: Shao Shuyi , Chen Mou 
Published: February 2022

AbstractIn this article, a robust discrete‐time fractional‐order tracking control scheme based on a discrete‐time disturbance observer (DTDO) is proposed for an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) system in the presence of unknown bounded variation disturbances. A DTDO is first constructed to estimate the unknown bounded disturbance. On the basis of the output of the DTDO and the discrete‐time fractional‐order theories, a robust discrete‐time fractional‐order control scheme is then designed by using the backstepping control technique for a discrete‐time UAV system with disturbances. The proposed control scheme is expected to guarantee the stability of the closed‐loop system with all system signals bounded. Finally, numerical simulations are conducted to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed control scheme.
A Novel Dendrite‐Free Lithium Metal Anode via Oxygen and Boron Codoped Honeycomb Carbon Skeleton
Authors: Xie Yiwen , Zhang Haiyan , Yu Jiale , Liu Zhenjiang , Zhang Shangshang , Shao Huaiyu , Cao Yuliang , Huang Xifeng , Li Shengkai 
Published: February 2022

AbstractLithium (Li) metal is an excellent anode of Li ion batteries because of its high theoretical capacity and the low redox potential compared to other anodes. However, the uncontrollable growth of Li dendrites still incurs serious safety issues and poor electrochemical performances, leading to its limited practical application. An oxygen and boron codoped honeycomb carbon skeleton (OBHcCs) is reported and a stable Li metal‐based anode is realized. It can be coated on a copper foil substrate to be used as a current collector for a dendrite‐free Li metal anode. OBHcCs effectively reduces the local current density owing to the high surface area and inhibits Li dendrite growth, which is explored by scanning electron microscopy and an X‐ray photoelectron spectra depth profile. The abundant lithiophilic oxygen and boron‐containing functional groups reduce the potential barrier of nucleation and lead to the homogeneous Li ions flux as confirmed by the density functional theories. Therefore, the Li metal anode based on OBHcCs (OBHcCs@Li) stably runs for 700 h in a symmetric cell with a Li stripping capacity of 1 mAh cm−2 at 1 mA cm−2. Furthermore, the OBHcCs@Li|LiFePO4 full cell shows a good capacity retention of 84.6% with a high coulombic efficiency of 99.6% at 0.5 C for 500 cycles.
Assessing Fire‐Damage in Historical Papers and Alleviating Damage with Soft Cellulose Nanofibers
Authors: Völkel Laura , Beaumont Marco , Johansson Leena‐Sisko , Czibula Caterina , Rusakov Dmitrii , Mautner Andreas , Teichert Christian , Kontturi Eero , Rosenau Thomas , Potthast Antje 
Published: February 2022

AbstractThe conservation of historical paper objects with high cultural value is an important societal task. Papers that have been severely damaged by fire, heat, and extinguishing water, are a particularly challenging case, because of the complexity and severity of damage patterns. In‐depth analysis of fire‐damaged papers, by means of examples from the catastrophic fire in a 17th‐century German library, shows the changes, which proceeded from the margin to the center, to go beyond surface charring and formation of hydrophobic carbon‐rich layers. The charred paper exhibits structural changes in the nano‐ and micro‐range, with increased porosity and water sorption. In less charred areas, cellulose is affected by both chain cleavage and cross‐linking. Based on these results and conclusions with regard to adhesion of auxiliaries, a stabilization method is developed, which coats the damaged paper with a thin layer of cellulose nanofibers. It enables the reliable preservation of the paper and—most importantly—retrieval of the contained historical information: the nanofibers form a flexible, transparent film on the surface and adhere strongly to the damaged matrix, greatly reducing its fragility, giving it stability, and enabling digitization and further handling.
Glutathione‐Bioimprinted Nanoparticles Targeting of N6‐methyladenosine FTO Demethylase as a Strategy against Leukemic Stem Cells
Authors: Cao Kunxia , Du Yangyang , Bao Xin , Han Mingda , Su Rui , Pang Jiuxia , Liu Shujun , Shi Zhan , Yan Fei , Feng Shouhua 
Published: February 2022

AbstractThe N6‐methyladenosine (m6A) demethylase FTO plays an oncogenic role in acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Despite the promising recent progress for developing some small‐molecule FTO inhibitors, the clinical potential remains limited due to mild biological function, toxic side effects and low sensitivity and/or specificity to leukemic stem cells (LSCs). Herein, FTO inhibitor‐loaded GSH‐bioimprinted nanocomposites (GNPIPP12MA) are developed that achieves targeting of the FTO/m6A pathway synergized GSH depletion for enhancing anti‐leukemogenesis. GNPIPP12MA can selectively target leukemia blasts, especially LSCs, and induce ferroptosis by disrupting intracellular redox status. In addition, GNPIPP12MA increases global m6A RNA modification and decreases the transcript levels in LSCs. GNPIPP12MA augments the efficacy of the PD‐L1 blockade by increasing the infiltration of cytotoxic T cells for enhanced anti‐leukemia immunity. This study offers insights for a GSH‐bioimprinted nanoplatform targeting m6A RNA methylation as a synergistic treatment strategy against cancer stem cells that may translate to clinical applications.
Surface and interface chemistry in metal‐free electrocatalysts for electrochemical CO2 reduction
Authors: Zhang Wei , Jia Baohua , Liu Xue , Ma Tianyi 
Published: February 2022

AbstractThe electrochemical reduction of carbon dioxide (CO2) into value‐added fuels and chemicals presents a sustainable route to alleviate CO2 emissions, promote carbon‐neutral cycles and reduce the dependence on fossil fuels. Considering the thermodynamic stability of the CO2 molecule and sluggish reaction kinetics, it is still a challenge to design highly efficient electrocatalysts for the CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR). It has been found that the surface and interface chemistry of electrocatalysts can modulate the electronic structure and increase the active sites, which is favorable for CO2 adsorption, electron transfer, mass transport, and optimizing adsorption strength of reaction intermediates. However, the effect of surface and interface chemistry on metal‐free electrocatalysts (MFEs) for CO2RR has not been comprehensively reviewed. Herein, we discuss the importance of the surface and interface chemistry on MFEs for improving the electrochemical CO2RR performance based on thermodynamic and kinetic views. The fundamentals and challenges of CO2RR are firstly presented. Then, the recent advances of the surface and interface chemistry in improving reaction rate and overcoming reaction constraints are reviewed from regulating electronic structure, active sites, electron transfer, mass transport, and intermediate binding energy. Finally, the research challenges and prospects are proposed to suggest the future designs of advanced MFEs in CO2RR.
Risk factors influencing brumation success in captive tortoises in the United Kingdom
Authors: Baldrey Vicki , Guezennec Louis , Hedley Joanna 
Published: February 2022

AbstractBackgroundThis survey of tortoise owners was performed to investigate the factors contributing to morbidity and mortality during and post‐brumation in captive Testudo species in the United Kingdom.MethodsInformation regarding a total of 270 tortoises was included in the study, from 252 completed surveys. Binary logistic regression and multivariate modelling were used to evaluate the potential predictors associated with brumation mortality and those associated with post‐brumation problems.ResultsA 7.78% mortality rate was found, with 7.22% of surviving tortoises reported to have post‐brumation health concerns. Brumation in a garden and an uncontrolled reduction of temperature prior to brumation were the main risk factors for morbidity and mortality in the study.ConclusionsVeterinarians should be aware of these risk factors to ensure they target husbandry and brumation advice to owners of tortoises to reduce these risks.
Potential applications of N6‐methyladenosine modification in the prognosis and treatment of cancers via modulating apoptosis, autophagy, and ferroptosis
Authors: Zhi Yuan , Zhang Shanshan , Zi Moxin , Wang Yian , Liu Yuhang , Zhang Mi , Shi Lei , Yan Qijia , Zeng Zhaoyang , Xiong Wei , Zhi Keqian , Gong Zhaojian 
Published: February 2022

AbstractN6‐methyladenosine (m6A) is one of the most abundant modifications determining the fate of RNA. Currently, m6A modification is tightly connected with tumorigenesis and presents novel promise in clinical applications. Regulated cell death (RCD) is a programmed mechanism that plays a complicated role in malignant transition. Regarding the main forms of RCD, aberrant levels of m6A modification have been detected during the progression of apoptosis, autophagy, ferroptosis, necroptosis, and pyroptosis in several diseases. However, few reviews have elucidated the correlation between m6A‐modified RCD and carcinogenesis. In this review, we summarize the regulators of m6A methylation and their functions in carcinogenesis through an overview of m6A‐modified RCD. Additionally, we assume the potential role of m6A modification regulators as novel biomarkers for chemotherapies and precision medicine. Furthermore, we review the controversies and conflicts in m6A explorations and predict future orientations of m6A‐modified RCD for clinical applications.This article is categorized under:
Regulatory RNAs/RNAi/Riboswitches > Regulatory RNAs
Stability of generalized Einstein-Maxwell-scalar black holes
Authors: Gannouji Radouane , Baez Yolbeiker Rodríguez 
Published: February 2022

AbstractWe study the stability of static black holes in generalized Einstein-Maxwell-scalar theories. We derive the master equations for the odd and even parity perturbations. The sufficient and necessary conditions for the stability of black holes under odd-parity perturbations are derived. We show that these conditions are usually not similar to energy conditions even in the simplest case of a minimally coupled scalar field. We obtain the necessary conditions for the stability of even-parity perturbations. We also derived the speed of propagation of the five degrees of freedom and obtained the class of theories for which all degrees of freedom propagate at the speed of light. Finally, we have applied our results to various black holes in nonlinear electrodynamics, scalar-tensor theories and Einstein-Maxwell-dilaton theory. For the latter, we have also calculated the quasinormal modes.
Effekte der gesetzlichen Qualitätssicherung in der akutstationären Versorgung
Authors: Geraedts Max , de Cruppé Werner 
Published: February 2022

Zusammenfassung
Hintergrund
Die gesetzliche Qualitätssicherung (QS) dient der Sicherung und Weiterentwicklung der Qualität der Leistungserbringung. Besonders prominent in Deutschlands akutstationärer Versorgung sind die verpflichtend anzufertigenden Qualitätsberichte (QB) und die Beteiligung an externen Qualitätsvergleichen (eQS). Deren Effekte wurden bisher nicht umfassend evaluiert.

Fragestellung
Mit welchen Effekten auf die Versorgungsqualität gehen eQS und QB einher?

Material und Methode
Auf der Basis einer selektiven Literaturrecherche wurden internationale Erkenntnisse zu den Effekten der QS zusammengestellt. Diese wurden durch Analysen der Qualitätsreporte der seit 2001 für die eQS zuständigen Institutionen, der Bundesgeschäftsstelle Qualitätssicherung (BQS), des Instituts für angewandte Qualitätsförderung und Forschung im Gesundheitswesen (AQUA) und des Instituts für Qualitätssicherung und Transparenz im Gesundheitswesen (IQTIG) ergänzt.

Ergebnisse
Laut internationaler Literatur können höchstens schwache Effekte dieser Maßnahmen vor allem auf die Prozessqualität erwartet werden. Studien aus Deutschland beobachten zumeist nur unkontrolliert zeitliche Trends und weisen zum Teil verbesserte Qualitätsindikatoren nach. Nur je eine kontrollierte Studie konnte für die eQS bzw. die QB jeweils schwache positive Effekte auf die Ergebnis- bzw. Prozessqualität zeigen.

Diskussion
Weder für die QB noch die eQS liegen überzeugende Evaluationsergebnisse vor. Als potenzielle Ursachen können Mängel der adressatenorientierten Gestaltung der QB und der rückgemeldeten Indikatorergebnisse in Bezug auf deren Validität, Risikoadjustierung und zeitliche Verfügbarkeit angeführt werden. Die gesetzliche QS sollte überarbeitet werden, indem die Voraussetzungen für erfolgreiche Leistungsrückkopplungen stärker beachtet werden und wieder Raum für eine intrinsisch motivierte Auseinandersetzung mit der eigenen Versorgungsqualität geschaffen wird.