bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Shining a spotlight on youth involvement in mental health research: Challenges and innovations
Authors: Michail Maria
Published: November 2024

Despite progress in youth involvement in mental health research, considerable gaps remain in our understanding, conceptualisation, and implementation of involving children and young people in this field. This Editorial Perspective reflects on how these gaps present challenges to our research practices and often serve as barriers to meaningfully involving youth voices and experiences into the research process. We take a critical perspective to recent advances in the field of youth involvement in mental health research, reflected by the studies included in this special issue, and highlight examples of good practice paving the way for more equitable and inclusive approaches. Meaningful progress in mental health research relies on the active involvement of young people. Researchers, practitioners and policymakers have an ethical and moral responsibility to create a safe and inclusive environment that empowers young people to participate in research that impacts their lives, care, and overall quality of life.
Perception of the value of simulation models by dental anesthesia teachers and implementation of simulation models for teaching
Authors: Aguila‐Sánchez Lilia Mariana , Bermeo‐Escalona Josué Roberto , Suárez‐Franco José Luis , Galindo‐Reyes Edith Lilia , Ortiz‐Magdaleno Mariné , Cerda‐Cristerna Bernardino Isaac
Published: November 2024

Background

A dental anesthesia simulation model (DASM) is a tool for the teaching and learning of local dental anesthesia techniques. We investigated how dental anesthesia teachers (DATs) perceive the value of those tools.

Objective

The objective of this study was to investigate the following: the characteristics of the dental anesthesia curriculum used by DATs in Mexico; the DATs’ opinion of ethical issues in the teaching of local dental anesthesia; the DATs’ perception of the value of using a DASM to teach local dental anesthesia; and the characteristics of the implementation of a DASM by DATs.

Methods

Dental anesthesia teachers in Mexico answered an online questionnaire with 34 items. The questionnaire had five sections that explored the objective of the study. The results were analyzed with a chi‐square test (p < 0.05) or with the Tau‐c test (p < 0.05).

Results

One hundred twenty dental anesthesia teachers participated in the study.

A total of 37.5% perceived a very high value of using a DASM to teach local dental anesthesia. No significant statistical differences were found when the level of perception was analyzed using the variable of whether the participants used a simulation model for teaching. Half of the participants had access to a simulation model, but only 29.2% used a simulation model for teaching. Most of the participants did not know how to use a DASM for teaching.

Conclusion

Dental anesthesia teachers had a positive perception of simulation models. However, they did not use them, nor were they prepared to use them.
Machine learning in knee injury sequelae detection: Unravelling the role of psychological factors and preventing long‐term sequelae
Authors: LIPPS LENE Clément , Frere Julien , Weissland Thierry
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This study evaluated the performance of three machine learning (ML) algorithms—decision tree (DT), multilayer perceptron (MLP) and extreme gradient boosting (XGB)—in identifying regular athletes who suffered a knee injury several months to years prior. In addition, the contribution of psychological variables in addition to biomechanical ones in the classification performance of the ML algorithms was assessed, to better identify factors to get back to competitive sport with the lowest possible risk of new knee injury.

Methods

A cohort of 96 athletes, 36 with prior knee injuries, practicing an average of 5.7 ± 2.4 h per week, participated in a horizontal force‐velocity test on a ballistic ergometer providing data of force, velocity and power from each lower limb. They also completed a psychological questionnaire, which included components from the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) and the Sport Anxiety Scale (SAS). The three ML algorithms were trained on a thousand different train‐test sets. Also, Shapley values were calculated for each input variable of a data set to highlight its contribution to the prediction from an ML model.

Results

Over a thousand cross‐validations, higher area under the curve (AUC) values were obtained when accounted for the psychological attributes (p < 0.001). Also, higher AUC values were obtained from MLP compared to XGB or DT (p < 0.001). XGB exhibited higher AUC values than DT (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Our results suggested that psychological factors play a more important role in recognition than biomechanical factors, with KOOS and SAS scores ranking high in the list of influential factors. Additionally, the computing stability of MLP could be recommended for classification tasks in the context of knee injuries.

Level of Evidence

Level III.
N‐lauroylglutamates with two and four carboxylate head groups: Their interactions with bovine serum albumin
Authors: Singh Ankita , Gupta Sumedha , Neelakshi  , Gurunarayanan Vinithra , Ramapanicker Ramesh
Published: November 2024

N‐lauroyl derivatives of amino acids have widely been reported as environmentally benign surfactants. Although N‐lauroyl‐l‐glutamate is reported in the literature, the effect of the two carboxylate groups in it has not been specifically addressed. In this study, we report the interactions of bovine serum albumin (BSA) with N‐lauroylglutamate (S1) and an N‐lauroyl derivative of a tripeptide of glutamic acid (S2), respectively. The surfactant S1 has two and S2 has four carboxylic acid groups making them different from other N‐lauroyl amino acids, which have just one carboxylic acid group. The aim of this study is to understand the role of the number of carboxylate groups present in these amino acid‐based anionic surfactants while interacting with biomolecules such as BSA. The critical micelle concentration (CMC) of the surfactants were measured both in the presence and absence of BSA using fluorescence spectroscopy. The fluorescence of BSA was quenched on addition of the surfactants. The mechanisms of fluorescence quenching were established by studying the fluorescence at three different temperatures. CD studies were performed to calculate the temperature at which BSA unfolds completely in the presence and absence of the surfactants. Conformational changes in the secondary structure of BSA were also observed on the addition of S1 and S2. The results of these studies are compared with those previously reported for the interactions between BSA and N‐lauroylglycinate. We find that S1 has a lower CMC than S2 and lauroylglycinate. The surfactant S1 stabilized the secondary structure of BSA better at higher temperatures.
Excellent quality acquisition of myofibrillar protein in red shrimp (Solenocera crassicornis) based on regulating the oxidation degree of atmospheric cold plasma treatment
Authors: Chen Yingyun , Peng Siwei , Hu Jiajie , Chen Jing , Zhou Xinyi , Yang Hongli
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND

Myofibrillar protein (MP) is essential for the texture and taste of shrimp surimi products. The reactive oxygen/nitrogen species (ROS/RNS) produced by atmospheric cold plasma (ACP) might cause oxidative modification of MP. In this study, the effect of different ACP treatment times on the properties of red shrimp MP was investigated in detail.

RESULTS

The mild oxidation induced by ACP treatment for 1 min (ACP‐1 min) promoted the unfolding and refolding of the MP structure, which was manifested as a transition from α‐helix to β‐sheets. Compared with other groups, more hydrogen bonds and hydrophobic interactions in the ACP‐1 min group might enhance the interactions between the myosin heavy chain and actin, which was conducive to the formation of a regular and dense three‐dimensional network structure. Person correlation analysis revealed that ROS/RNS mediated the changes in the secondary and tertiary structure of MP. In addition, ACP‐1 min has high Ca2+‐ATPase activity, which reflected that MP maintained structural integrity. While excessive oxidation in the ACP treatments for 3 min and 5 min reduced MP robustness. The stable internal structure in ACP‐1 min group gave the MP excellent texture profile (1.79 mJ of adhesiveness and 0.89 mm of springiness) and rheological characteristics (0.373 MPa of storage modulus).

CONCLUSION

Overall, the excellent quality of MP could be obtained by regulating the oxidation degree of ACP, which would provide valuable information for the in‐depth and efficient processing of shrimp products. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis of Oncologic Liver Resections in Low‐ and Middle‐Income Countries: Opportunities to Improve Evidence and Outcomes
Authors: Khan Adel H. , Mahmud Omar , Fatimi Asad Saulat , Ahmed Shaheer , Wiener Alyssa A. , Nishtala Madhuri V. , Stahl Christopher C. , Christensen Leslie , Khan Muhammad Rizwan , Schwartz Patrick B. , Zafar Syed Nabeel
Published: November 2024

Background

Patients in low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMICs) are disproportionately affected by liver cancers but there is a lack of understanding of their postoperative outcomes. This study aimed to review the current status of research in LMICs regarding outcomes after oncologic hepatectomy and synthesize the data reported in the literature.

Methods

The PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Web of Science, and World Health Organization (WHO) Global Index Medicus databases were searched from database inception to May 26th, 2022. Studies that reported outcomes after oncologic hepatectomy in LMIC settings were eligible for inclusion. Two independent reviewers performed record screening and data extraction. Risk of bias assessment was performed using the National Institutes of Health Study Quality Assessment tools. Pooled results with 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) were calculated using a random effects model.

Results

One hundred and thirty‐five studies and 16 985 patients were included. Most studies were of a “fair” quality. Two studies described pediatric patients. Only one study was from a low‐income country and most African regions were not represented. The rates of major and minor complications were 11% and 27%, respectively, while 30‐ and 90‐day mortality rates were 2% and 3% each. Postoperative liver failure (8%), surgical site infections (6%), and bile leaks (6%) were common complications.

Conclusions

This review indicates a dearth of data from LMICs on outcomes after hepatectomy, particularly from African regions and low‐income countries.
Averaging principle on semi‐axis for semi‐linear differential equations
Authors: Cheban David
Published: November 2024

We establish an averaging principle on the real semi‐axis for semi‐linear equation
with unbounded closed linear operator and asymptotically Poisson stable (in particular, asymptotically stationary, asymptotically periodic, asymptotically quasi‐periodic, asymptotically almost periodic, asymptotically almost automorphic, asymptotically recurrent) coefficients. Under some conditions, we prove that there exists at least one solution, which possesses the same asymptotically recurrence property as the coefficients, in a small neighborhood of the stationary solution to the averaged equation, and this solution converges to the stationary solution of averaged equation uniformly on the real semi‐axis when the small parameter approaches to zero.
Vaccine and therapeutic agents against the respiratory syncytial virus: resolved and unresolved issue
Authors: Li Qianqian , Li Huan , Li Zhihua , Wang Youchun
Published: November 2024

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a predominant pathogen responsible for respiratory tract infections among infants, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals. In recent years, significant progress has been made in innovative vaccines and therapeutic agents targeting RSV. Nevertheless, numerous challenges and bottlenecks persist in the prevention and treatment of RSV infections. This review will provide an overview of the resolved and unresolved issues surrounding the development of vaccines and therapeutic agents against RSV. As of September 2024, three RSV vaccines against acute lower respiratory infections (ALRI) have been approved globally. Additionally, there have been notable progress in the realm of passive immunoprophylactic antibodies, with the monoclonal antibody nirsevimab receiving regulatory approval for the prevention of RSV infections in infants. Furthermore, a variety of RSV therapeutic agents are currently under clinical investigation, with the potential to yield breakthrough advancements in the foreseeable future. This review delineates the advancements and challenges faced in vaccines and therapeutic agents targeting RSV. It aims to provide insights that will guide the development of effective preventive and control measures for RSV.
Driving the Green Transformation of Enterprises: The Role of Patent Insurance
Authors: Zhong Junhao , Wang Zhenzhen , Deng Yunfeng
Published: November 2024

We verified the effect of patent insurance policy implementation on corporate green transformation, using a dataset of Chinese‐listed companies from 2007 to 2019. Using double/debiased machine learning and text analysis, we found that the pilot policy of patent insurance has a significant positive impact on the green transformation of enterprises. This effect is significant in heavily polluting industries, eastern regions, state‐owned enterprises, and companies in a growth stage. The patent insurance pilot policy promotes corporate green transformation by alleviating financing constraints, reducing operational risks, and increasing green output.
Local hyperthermic treatment of an advanced in vivo malignant tumor: A compartmental cum mathematical model
Authors: Mubarak Saqib
Published: November 2024

Hyperthermia, also called as thermal ablation, is used to treat some advanced cancers. Numerous clinical trials indicate that hyperthermia, when combined with therapies like radiation and chemotherapy, can reduce tumor size and potentially enhance their ability to eradicate cancerous cells. Hence, it is of utmost importance to study the behavior and transmission dynamics of in vivo malignant tumors subjected to hyperthermia. To this purpose, a mathematical model has been formulated, primarily based on the reaction–diffusion equation, imposed with suitable initial and boundary conditions. As the advanced tumors usually consist of five layers, the domain is discretized into five compartments. The model is then solved analytically using the eigenvalue expansion method to determine the tumor cell volume profiles, in the presence and absence of hyperthermia. The main foci of the developed model are the discretization of the domain, variable nature of various physiological parameters involved, and its analytical solution, thereby aiming at strengthening the novelties of the present work. The model outcome and simulations obtained are compared with the previously published/clinical results to prove the validity and feasibility of the proposed work. This work is expected to provide an optimum mathematical model utilizing best mathematical techniques that can greatly aid researchers and biologists in the field of oncology to streamline the process and reduce costs associated with cancer treatment.
Polyneuropathy With Motor Conduction Block in POEMS
Authors: Uyanık Handan Uzunçakmak , Yıldız Fatma Gökçem , Gülmez Bahar , Tan Ersin , Temuçin Çağrı Mesut
Published: November 2024

Introduction/Aims

Polyneuropathy, organomegaly, endocrinopathy, monoclonal gammopathy, and skin changes (POEMS) syndrome is a paraneoplastic syndrome due to an underlying plasma cell dyscrasia. Polyneuropathy in POEMS syndrome may present as a subacute or chronic symmetric sensorimotor polyneuropathy, with electrophysiological features suggesting demyelination. Motor conduction block (CB), which is mostly seen in chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP), is considered an atypical electrophysiological feature in POEMS syndrome. We examined the frequency of motor CB in POEMS syndrome.

Methods

Patients with POEMS syndrome from the database of our department who had been examined between August 2017 and December 2022 were included in this study. All of the patients' clinical and electrophysiological data were retrospectively collected and analyzed.

Results

We present the data of seven POEMS syndrome patients. Twenty‐eight upper extremity motor nerve conduction studies were performed on these patients, and partial CB was detected in seven upper extremity motor nerves (25%) of six of the patients. One patient had motor CB in both the median and ulnar nerves.

Discussion

The distinction between POEMS syndrome and CIDP is important since these conditions require different treatments. Motor CB in POEMS may be more common than has been generally believed. Clinicians should consider this when evaluating patients with demyelinating polyneuropathies and be meticulous in identifying CB. Data from much larger numbers of patients are needed.
MS‐IS Hypoplastic Model Considering Stiffness Degradation Under Cyclic Loading Conditions
Authors: Wani Sahil , Alipour Mohammad Javad , Kandasami Ramesh Kannan , Wu Wei
Published: November 2024

Modelling the cyclic response of granular materials is key in the design of several geostructures. Over the years, numerous constitutive models have been proposed to predict the cyclic behaviour of granular materials. However, pertaining to the hypoplastic constitutive models, one of the significant limitations is their inability to accurately predict the geomechanical response during the unloading and reloading phases. This study introduces an extension of the MS‐IS hypoplastic model designed to enhance the predictions during non‐monotonic loading conditions. Addressing the limitations observed in the hypoplastic models during the unloading and reloading phases, the proposed model incorporates an additional stiffness feature. This new stiffness function is integrated into the foundational framework to enhance the model's overall stiffness response. For the unloading phase, the introduction of a stiffness degradation factor aims to modify the volumetric response and account for the realistic stiffness degradation. Additionally, for the reloading phase, stiffness is now a function of the mean effective stress. The novel model's performance is validated against experimental data, encompassing diverse loading and boundary conditions.
Noninvasive Imaging of Transgene Expression in Neurons Using Chemical Exchange Saturation Transfer MRI
Authors: Flament Julien , Pépin Jérémy , Maugard Marianne , Gaudin Mylène , Cohen Léa , Jan Caroline , Valette Julien , Piluso Sébastien , Delzescaux Thierry , Bonvento Gilles
Published: November 2024

Advances in gene therapy, especially for brain diseases, have created new imaging demands for noninvasive monitoring of gene expression. While reporter gene imaging using co‐expression of fluorescent protein–encoding gene has been widely developed, these conventional methods face significant limitations in longitudinal in vivo applications. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), specifically chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST) MRI, provides a robust noninvasive alternative that offers unlimited depth penetration, reliable spatial resolution, and specificity toward particular molecules. In this study, we explore the potential of CEST‐MRI for monitoring gene expression in neurons. We designed a CEST polypeptide reporter expressing 150 arginine residues and evaluated its expression in the living brain after viral vector delivery. A longitudinal study performed at one and 2 months postinjection showed that specific CEST signal was observable. In particular, the CEST contrast exhibited distinct peaks at 0.75 and 1.75 ppm, consistent with the expected hydroxyl and guanidyl protons resonance frequencies. Histological study confirmed the specific neuronal expression of the transgene evidenced by the fluorescence signal from the td‐Tomato fluorophore fused to the polypeptide. The ability to image noninvasively a neuron‐specific CEST‐MRI reporter gene could offer valuable insights for further developments of gene therapy for neurological disorders.
An Energy‐Conserving Time Integration Scheme for Nonlinear Dynamics Analysis of Geometrically Exact 3D Euler–Bernoulli Beams
Authors: Chhang Sophy , Sansour Carlo , Keo Pisey , Hjiaj Mohammed , Battini Jean‐Marc , Santana M. V. Bento
Published: November 2024

In the nonlinear large deformation regime, the beam theory is usually based on the Timoshenko assumption which considers shear deformations. The formulation of a 3D Euler–Bernoulli beam has been significantly delayed and only recently it did attract the attention of few researchers. The main reason lies in the challenging complexities met once an attempt to develop such a theory is undertaken. The main obstacle in defining a three‐dimensional Euler–Bernoulli beam theory lies in the fact that there is no natural way of defining a base system at the deformed configuration. In this article, we provide a novel methodology to do so leading to the development of a spatial rod formulation which incorporates the Euler–Bernoulli assumption. The first approach makes use of Gram–Schmidt orthogonalisation process coupled to a one‐parametric rotation. The latter completes the description of the torsional cross sectional rotation and overcomes the nonuniqueness of the Gram–Schmidt procedure. In a second approach, the rotation tensor is defined based on first and second derivatives of the displacement vector of the centre line. It is followed by one parametric rotation. The proposed formulation is extended to the dynamical case and a stable, energy and momentum conserving time‐stepping algorithm is presented as well. Specifically, the proof of conservation of angular momentum of the time stepping algorithm is highly demanding and is given here in full.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Chronic Rhinosinusitis: Understanding the Impact of OSA on CRS Disease Burden
Authors: Garvey Emily , Duffy Alexander , Tekumalla Sruti , Naimi Bita , Kahn Chase , Yang Angela , Urdang Zachary , Farquhar Douglas , Rosen Marc , Nyquist Gurston G. , Toskala Elina , Rabinowitz Mindy
Published: November 2024

Objective

Assess the impact of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) on chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) severeity.

Study Design

Retrospective database review.

Setting

TriNetX US database.

Methods

TriNetX US Collaborative Network database was queried for cohorts of patients with OSA, CRS, and CRS with comorbid OSA (CRS‐OSA). Data included demographics, CRS severity was assessed via rates of endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS), antibiotic, and oral steroid use. Propensity score matching was performed to account for differences in demographics and clinical variables.

Results

The query identified 1,818,879 patients with CRS, 481144 with OSA, and 93,153 CRS‐OSA patients. OSA‐CRS patients had higher rates of hypertension, diabetes mellitus, obesity, and asthma than either CRS or OSA populations (P < 0.0001). CRS‐OSA patients demonstrated higher rates of ESS (odds ratio [OR]: 1.91, 1.82‐2.02, P < 0.0001), antibiotic (OR: 1.90, 1.81‐1.96, P < 0.001), and oral steroid use (OR: 2.23, 2.16‐2.28, P < 0.001) compared to CRS‐only patients. CRS‐OSA patients not on continuous positive airway pressure had higher utilization of antibiotics (OR: 3.24, 2.82‐3.71, P < 0.0001) and steroids (OR: 2.28, 2.05‐2.55, P < 0.0001) than nonutilizers. CRS‐OSA patients with sleep‐related surgical interventions required fewer antibiotic courses (OR: 1.93, 1.62‐2.28, P < 0.0001).

Conclusion

CRS‐OSA patients experience higher rates of comorbidities associated with both diseases than those with CRS or OSA alone. OSA was associated with an increased risk of ESS, antibiotic, and steroid use in patients with CRS. There appears to be a correlation with treatment of OSA and CRS outcomes, however, further studies are required.
Human–nature connectedness and sustainability across lifetimes: A comparative cross‐sectional study in France and Colombia
Authors: Barragan‐Jason Gladys , Cauchoix Maxime , Diaz‐Valencia Paula A. , Syssau‐Vaccarella Arielle , Hemet Solène , Cardozo Camilo , Skevington Suzanne M. , Heeb Philipp , Parmesan Camille
Published: November 2024

To achieve sustainable targets, international panels call for a transformative change in human–nature interactions to foster human well‐being and promote pro‐environmental behaviour. The extent to which people considered themselves as part of nature—known as human–nature connectedness—has been shown to be a key societal trait for achieving such a transformative change. Human–nature connectedness is linked to improved human welfare and actions for nature conservation and can be increased by direct contact with natural environments in adults living in the Global North. It has not been shown whether these relations are true across lifetimes and in the Global South, making it difficult to generalise about the effects of human–nature connectedness globally.

Here, we conducted a cross‐sectional study to examine and compare human–nature connectedness across ages in 1858 participants aged 3–87 years from two countries: France (N = 1059) and Colombia (N = 799). We also investigated the links between human–nature connectedness, pro‐environmental behaviours, well‐being and two indicators of opportunity to experience nature (i.e. degree of urbanisation and forest cover around the participants' municipality of residence).

Results show that human–nature connectedness is positively related to well‐being and pro‐environmental behaviours in both countries. Analyses revealed an age‐related pattern of human–nature connectedness with a significant decline from childhood to the mid‐teens in both countries. Overall, Colombian participants have a higher human–nature connectedness than French participants and individuals' human–nature connectedness was negatively linked to the urbanisation's indices in both countries.

Here, we show that human–nature connectedness is linked to sustainable outcomes in a Global South country, just as it is in the Global North. Our study also suggests that increasing contact with nature during formative teenage years could mitigate the observed decline in human–nature connectedness. Future studies are warranted combining qualitative and quantitative measures related to human–nature connectedness, nature experiences, values and practices in relation to nature, in multiple countries from the global South. Our study indicates that enhancing human–nature connectedness could provide an additional tool for achieving sustainable targets globally, not just in highly developed northern‐hemisphere countries.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Factors Influencing Guardians' Health‐Seeking Decisions for Children With Burkitt Lymphoma in Northern and Central Malawi
Authors: Mbutuka Hellen Rahma , Mapurisa Gugulethu , Mzikamanda Rizine , Hockenberry Marilyn , Ozuah Nmazuo W. , Umar Eric
Published: November 2024

Background

The survival of children with Burkitt lymphoma (BL) in sub‐Saharan Africa is disproportionately low compared to high‐income countries. In Malawi, many of these children are diagnosed in advanced stages. Early and accurate diagnosis is critical to survival of children with BL. This qualitative study evaluates factors influencing health‐seeking decisions of guardians of children with BL in Northern and Central Malawi.

Methods

We conducted in‐depth interviews of guardians of children (<18 years) diagnosed with BL and admitted to the Pediatric Oncology Unit at Kamuzu Central Hospital, in Lilongwe, Malawi, from February to April 2023. Participants were identified using purposive sampling. Data were analyzed using thematic content analysis.

Results

Twenty guardians participated in the interviews. The median age of the respondents was 41 years, and 65% were females. Four main themes emerged as factors influencing health‐seeking behaviors as guardians of children with BL navigated the Malawi health system. These included personal, economic, access to healthcare, and social factors. Financial status consistently emerged as a crucial determinant in the health‐seeking behaviors of guardians, but thematic analysis also revealed knowledge and awareness, geographical accessibility, and symptom interpretation as key factors shaping health‐seeking behaviors for guardians of children with BL. Symptom interpretation was influenced by the limited knowledge of the disease, and the lack of general awareness about childhood cancer.

Conclusion

We identified financial and non‐monetary barriers affecting health‐seeking behavior among guardians of children with BL in Malawi. Targeted initiatives to alleviate the economic burden of cancer on affected families and increased awareness campaigns in the community are critical to improving BL outcomes in Malawi and other low‐resourced settings.
Experience of childhood adversity and maladaptive personality traits: Magnitude and specificity of the association in a clinical sample of adult outpatients
Authors: Deiana Valeria , Suprani Federico , Paribello Pasquale , Mura Andrea , Arzedi Carlo , Garzilli Mario , Arru Laura , Manchia Mirko , Carpiniello Bernardo , Pinna Federica
Published: November 2024

The relationship between the experience of childhood adversity (CA) and the development of personality disorders (PDs) has been well documented. The dimensional PD alternative model (AMPD) has been introduced in nosography in 2013, and so far it is been used for CA research mostly on non‐clinical samples. We included in our study 137 psychiatric outpatients who were screened for history of maternal antipathy (MA), paternal antipathy (PA), maternal neglect (MN), paternal neglect (PN), maternal physical abuse (MPA), paternal physical abuse (PPA) and sexual abuse (SA) using the Childhood Experience of Care and Abuse Questionnaire (CECA.Q) and underwent personality assessment using the Personality Inventory for DSM‐5. Applying CECA.Q cut‐off scores, rates of participants reporting CA were as follows: 14.6% MA; 13.9% PA; 13.1% MN; 10.2% PN; 25.5% MPA; 24.8% PPA; and 22.6% SA. In multivariate regression models, accounting for age, gender and exposure to other types of CA, exposure to MA was associated with increased negative affect, detachment, disinhibition and psychoticism; exposure to PA with increased disinhibition; and exposure to SA with increased antagonism, disinhibition and psychoticism. All effect sizes were small, except for a moderate effect of SA on psychoticism. Results pointed to a small but specific and independent effect of MA on most maladaptive personality traits; a possible specific role of the paternal figure for externalizing traits; and a moderate effect of SA on psychoticism. The cumulative exposure to multiple CAs significantly predicted all maladaptive personality traits, with much larger effect sizes compared to those calculated for single CAs. CA explained the higher proportion of variance for antagonism and psychoticism. In conclusion, exposure to specific forms of childhood abuse was associated with specific maladaptive traits in psychiatric outpatients, even if the effect of cumulative multiple CAs was larger.
Paraphilias, problematic sexual behaviours and personality disorder—To what extent are they linked?
Authors: Yakeley Jessica , Rost Felicitas , Wood Heather , Abid Safia
Published: November 2024

Background

Since DSM‐III, mental disorders have been classified based on overt symptoms and behaviours rather than underlying psychological and personality processes.

Aims

This study examines the occurrence of personality dysfunction in individuals with paraphilic disorders and problematic sexual behaviours.

Method

The Shedler‐Westen Assessment Procedure (SWAP‐200), a clinician‐rated assessment measure of personality disorders, was administered in a sample of 303 patients referred to a specialist forensic psychotherapy clinic.

Sixty‐six percent (N = 200) of the sample were diagnosable with traits of one or more DSM‐5 personality disorders, and 35% (N = 106) were diagnosable with categorical DSM‐5 personality disorders. When an alternative set of empirically derived personality diagnoses was examined, 94% (N = 285) had significant traits of the personality syndromes, and 62% (N = 188) of the sample met criteria for categorical diagnoses.

Conclusions

Paraphilic fantasies and behaviours may be linked to underlying personality pathology, suggesting implications for assessment and treatment.
The Favorable Effects of Incorporating Bulky Rigid Moieties Into Polymethylsilane (PMS) on the Melt‐Spinnability of Its Derived Preceramic Polymer
Authors: Shen Guobo , Liao Mingdong , Xu Ping , Hu Xiebo , Zeng Chen , Zhang Ze , Zhong Chenghao , Zhang Mingyu , Su Zhean , Huang Qizhong
Published: November 2024

The wide applications of continuous silicon carbide fiber (SiCf) are constrained by the high cost of its common raw material, polycarbosilane (PCS). Polymethylsilane(PMS) exhibits higher reactivity and a lower production cost than PCS. Nevertheless, the disadvantages of pyrophoric nature and thermoset properties in raw PMS necessitate improvements for practical applications. Herein, benzoxazine resin (VBR) with vinyl functional groups is utilized to modify PMS via hydrosilylation. After modification, a stable preceramic polymer with excellent processability is obtained. The ordered and symmetrical molecular architecture of the initial PMS is changed. This results in an increase of the molecular rigidity, which in turn constrains the alteration of molecular conformation and diminishes the tendency toward crystallization. The modified PMS exhibits a shear‐thinning behavior and thermoplastic properties upon heating, making it suitable for melt‐spinning. The molecular orientation of the newly formed network structure in the modified PMS is aligned with the shear force during melt‐spinning, facilitating the extrusion of green fibers and thereby imparting superior spinnability to the modified PMS. By optimizing the temperature of melt‐spinning to 210°C, we produce continuous SiC green fibers with lengths exceeding 10 km. This work presents a promising candidate for the economic preparation of SiC fiber.
Exploration of the potential impact of batch‐to‐batch variability on the establishment of pharmacokinetic bioequivalence for inhalation powder drug products
Authors: Li Shuhui , Feng Kairui , Lee Jieon , Gong Yuqing , Wu Fang , Newman Bryan , Yoon Miyoung , Fang Lanyan , Zhao Liang , Gobburu Jogarao V. S.
Published: November 2024

Batch‐to‐batch variability in inhalation powder has been identified as a potential challenge in the development of generic versions. This study explored the impact of batch‐to‐batch variability on the probability of establishing pharmacokinetic (PK) bioequivalence (BE) in a two‐sequence, two‐period (2 × 2) crossover study. A model‐based parametric simulation approach was employed, incorporating batch‐to‐batch variability through the relative bioavailability (RBA) ratio. In the absence of batch variability, recruiting a total of 48 subjects in a 2 × 2 crossover study with the reference formulation resulted in a 95% probability of concluding BE. However, this probability decreased to 80% with a 5% batch difference in RBA and further declined to 30% with a 10% batch difference. With a 10% batch difference, the required number of subjects to achieve an 80% probability of concluding BE increased to 84. When considering product differences between the reference and the test formulations, an additional 10% batch difference reduced the study power from 97% to 30% for a T/R bioavailability ratio of 100% in a 2 × 2 crossover study with 48 subjects. As a result, the substantial impact of batch‐to‐batch variability on the study power and type I error of the PK BE study may pose significant challenges for the development of generic Advair Diskus due to its degree of PK batch‐to‐batch variability. Therefore, alternative PK BE study designs and guidelines are needed to adequately address the influence of batch‐to‐batch variability in products like Advair Diskus.
The structure of Borneo vortices and their relationship with cold surges, the Madden–Julian oscillation and equatorial waves
Authors: Crook Julia , Hardy Sam , Methven John , Schwendike Juliane , Yik Diong Jeong , Yang Gui‐Ying
Published: November 2024

The Borneo vortex (BV) is a synoptic‐scale vorticity feature found in the South China Sea near Borneo during extended Boreal winter, which can bring heavy rain to the region. Predicting this rainfall is difficult. Therefore, a better understanding of the structure of these vortices and their interaction with equatorial waves could aid forecasters. Here we divide the BVs found from 41‐years of October–March ERA5 data into five clusters based on their tracks identified using relative vorticity maxima. These clusters capture distinct phenomena: vortices moving westwards across the South China Sea, vortices tracking along the north and northwest sides of Borneo, vortices sitting on the west side of Borneo, and vortices that initiate on the northwest side of Borneo, cross the equator and track eastwards along the south coast of Borneo. These clusters have a strong seasonal dependence related to the strength and southward propagation of the northeasterly flow and therefore cold‐surge type. The Madden–Julian oscillation (MJO) is considerably less important than the cold surge for modulating vortex frequency but has a similar order of magnitude impact on vortex rainfall. Kelvin waves strongly modulate rainfall from all BVs. Westward‐moving mixed Rossby–gravity (WMRG) and Rossby n = 1 (R1) waves modify frequency, rainfall, and vorticity through modification of environmental vorticity and northeasterly flow. These properties are highest when the BV is within or on the leading edge of the positive vorticity phase of R1 waves (in the northern hemisphere) or WMRG waves. Westward‐moving vortices north of 4° N are often embedded in and move with R1 or WMRG waves. Examining case studies in detail, we find BVs typically extend upward to 500–400 hPa but can reach to 300 hPa, and those near the equator may not always have closed streamlines. Under vertical wind shear they may tilt, usually to the west.
Quantifying cell fate change under different stochastic gene activation frameworks
Authors: Chen Xinxin , Sheng Ying , Chen Liang , Tang Moxun , Jiao Feng
Published: November 2024

Gene transcription is a stochastic process characterized by fluctuations in mRNA levels of the same gene in isogenic cell populations. A central question in single‐cell studies is how to map transcriptional variability to phenotypic differences between isogenic cells. We introduced a measurable and statistical transcription threshold I for critical genes that determine the entry level of Waddington’s canal toward a specific cell fate. Subsequently, JI, which is the probability that a cell has at least I mRNA molecules of a given gene, approximates the likelihood of a cell committing to the corresponding fate. In this study, we extended the previous results of JI of the classical telegraph model by considering more complex models with different gene activation frameworks. We showed that (a) the upregulation of the critical gene may significantly suppress cell fate change and (b) increasing transcription noise performs a bidirectional role that can either enhance or suppress the cell fate change. These observations matched accurately with the data from bacterial, yeast, and mammalian cells. We estimated the threshold I from these data and predicted that (a) the traditional human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) activators that modulate gene activation frequency at high doses may largely suppress HIV reactivation and (b) the cells may favor noisier (or less noisy) regulation of stress genes under high (or low) environmental pressures to maintain cell viability.
Exponential Tracking and Disturbance Rejection for Euler–Lagrange Systems With High‐Order Actuator Dynamics
Authors: He Changran , Huang Jie
Published: November 2024

In this paper, we study the exponential tracking and disturbance rejection problem of a class of Euler–Lagrange (EL) systems with high‐order actuator dynamics. This type of EL system takes into account not only the dynamics of the rigid components of the plant but also the dynamics of the actuators and it includes the elastic joint robot manipulator as a special case. Assuming the reference signal is bounded with bounded derivatives and both the output and the input of the actuator are subject to multi‐tone sinusoidal disturbances, we first establish nonlinear observers for the unknown disturbances based on the internal model principle. Then, we further construct a control law through a backstepping‐like design procedure to achieve the exponential tracking and disturbance rejection for the class of EL systems with high‐order actuator dynamics. A numerical example is provided to illustrate the proposed approach.
Predefined‐Time Stabilization for Low‐Order Nonlinear Systems With Time‐Varying Orders and Output Constraint
Authors: Sun Gang , Cui Rong‐Heng
Published: November 2024

This paper solves the problem of predefined‐time stabilization for low‐order nonlinear systems with time‐varying orders and the asymmetric output constraint. We construct a tangent‐type barrier Lyapunov function to handle the output constraint. By using the presented barrier Lyapunov function and the adding a power integrator technique, a novel continuous state‐feedback controller is designed to guarantee that the solution of the closed‐loop system is predefined‐time stable while the output constraint is not transgressed.
Discrete‐Time Neural Network Based Mode Switching Optimal Control Scheme for Mobile Dual‐Manipulator Robots
Authors: Jiang Yiming , Wang Jie , Yang Min , Zhong Hang , Zhang Hui , Yang Chenguang
Published: November 2024

In recent years, the mobile dual‐manipulator cooperative robot (MDMCR) has become a significant research platform for modern industrial applications due to their excellent adaptability and flexibility. However, the highly anthropomorphic structure and high motion redundancy pose numerous challenges in developing a high‐precision control scheme that is trackable, predictable, and adaptable in complex scenarios. Most research focuses on single‐task operations, lacking cohesive strategies for multi‐task coordination in dual‐manipulator robots. This paper presents a detailed mathematical model and kinematic analysis of the MDMCR, along with a novel coordination strategy designed to optimize cooperative precision and prevent self‐collision between the arms within a switching mode based on a cooperation index. Additionally, an innovative control scheme for mode switching of the MDMCR is established by incorporating kinematic constraints, joint limit constraints, and obstacle avoidance into a dynamic quadratic programming (DQP) problem, which is efficiently solved using discrete‐time primal‐dual neural network (DT‐PDNN). Through numerical experiments under two modes and comparative experiments with the traditional method, the effectiveness of the cooperation strategy based on the cooperation index has been verified.
Investigating the relationship between emotional intelligence and sexual satisfaction in late adolescent university students
Authors: Özbay Ahmet , Balaban Özgür
Published: November 2024

The aim of this study is to examine the relationship between emotional intelligence and sexual satisfaction in late adolescents who are university students. The study sample consisted of 757 people who reached out through social media. We collected the data using the Demographic Information Form, the Emotional Intelligence Scale (short form), and the male and female forms of the Golombok Rust Sexual Satisfaction Scale. The SPSS 22.0 package program conducted the necessary analysis of the data. The analysis revealed a significant negative correlation between the total scores on the Emotional Intelligence Scale and the total scores on sexual satisfaction. Accordingly, as emotional intelligence increases in both men and women, the deterioration in their sexual functions and relationships decreases. Additionally, we compared the participants' Sexual Satisfaction Scale scores based on various demographic variables. As a result, women's mean score on the Sexual Satisfaction Scale was significantly lower than that of men. The mean scores of participants who had a partner were significantly lower than those of participants who did not. The mean score of the individuals who were unmarried and thought that having sex before marriage was acceptable was much lower than the mean score of the participants who believed that having sex before marriage was bad. We talked about each outcome in light of the body of literature.
Comprehensive Analysis of the Effect of New Efficient and High Temperature Resistant Imidazoline Derivatives on the Corrosion Inhibition Performance of Q235: Experimental and Theoretical Studies
Authors: Wang Pengjie , Fan Lin , Song Yuhao , Li Hao , Ansari Kashif Rahmani , Li Zhonghui , Singh Ambrish , Lin Yuanhua , Talha Mhod
Published: November 2024

Background: Imidazoline derivatives were widely used in the field of metal corrosion protection due to the low toxicity and excellent corrosion inhibition performance. In order to further reduce synthesis costs and improve corrosion inhibition performance, oleic acid, diethylenetriamine, and anisaldehyde were used as raw materials to synthesize imidazole Schiff corrosion inhibitors (HM), and the corrosion inhibition mechanism on Q235 in 1.0 mol/L HCl solution was studied rigorously. Method: The corrosion inhibition ability was verified using weight loss and electrochemical experiments. Scanning electron microscope (SEM), energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS), and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) were used to detect and analyze the protective film formed on the surface of Q235 after weight loss. Density functional theory (DFT) demonstrated the adsorption sites and reaction activity of the corrosion inhibitor, Molecular Dynamics (MD) further validated the corrosion inhibition mechanism. Significant Findings: Imidazoline corrosion inhibitor could form a stable protective film on the surface of Q235. With the concentration increased of HM, the corrosion inhibition efficiency increased gradually, and with the temperature increased, the corrosion inhibition efficiency decreased gradually. At the optimal concentration, the corrosion inhibition rate could reach 98.98%. HM belonged to a mixed type corrosion inhibitor that mainly suppresses the cathode and could spontaneously adsorb on the metal surface, following the Langmuir isotherm for adsorption.