bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical diagnostic value of amino acids in laryngeal squamous cell carcinomas
Authors: Hu Shousen , Zhao Chang , Wang Zi’an , Li Zeyun , Kong Xiangzhen
Published: June 2023

Background

Early diagnosis and treatment can improve the survival rates of patients with laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC). Therefore, it is necessary to discover new biomarkers for laryngeal cancer screening and early diagnosis.

Methods

We collected fasting plasma from LSCC patients and healthy volunteers, as well as cancer and para-carcinoma tissues from LSCC patients, and performed quantitative detection of amino acid levels using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. We used overall analysis and multivariate statistical analysis to screen out the statistically significant differential amino acids in the plasma and tissue samples, conducted receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis of the differential amino acids to evaluate the sensitivity and specificity of the differential amino acids, and finally determined the diagnostic value of amino acids for laryngeal cancer. Additionally, we identified amino acids in the plasma and tissue samples that are valuable for the early diagnosis of laryngeal cancer classified according to the tumor-node-metastasis (TNM) classification.

Results

Asparagine (Asp) and homocysteine (Hcy) were two amino acids of common significance in plasma and tissue samples, and their specificity and sensitivity analysis showed that they may be new biomarkers for the diagnosis and treatment of LSCC. According to the TNM staging system, phenylalanine (Phe) and isoleucine (Ile) were screened out in the plasma of LSCC patients at early (I and II) and advanced (III and IV) stages; ornithine hydrochloride (Orn), glutamic acid (Glu), and Glycine (Gly) were selected in the tissue. These dysregulated amino acids found in LSCC patients may be useful as clinical biomarkers for the early diagnosis and screening of LSCC.
Avaliação do controle de qualidade do processo de fundição do alumínio em uma empresa do Polo Industrial de Manaus
Authors: De Souza Mariane Aquino , Roberto José Carlos Alves
Published: June 2023

O alumínio e suas ligas têm apresentado tendência crescente de consumo em decorrência das suas características físicas, químicas e mecânicas. Entretanto, os defeitos ocasionados durante a fundição do alumínio devem-se às variáveis metalúrgicas e aos projetos do processo. Assim, este trabalho teve como objetivo a identificação das causas de formação de não conformidades provenientes do processo de fundição do alumínio por gravidade em uma empresa do Pólo Industrial de Manaus. Os parâmetros foram previamente definidos pela empresa, entre eles a temperatura de forno, vazão e rotação para o processo de desgaseificação. Na metodologia foram utilizadas as ferramentas da qualidade para identificação de causas e efeitos e realização das ações corretivas no processo de fundição, como o diagrama de Ishikawa, árvore de falha e 5 porquês. Os resultados mostraram a formação de óxidos e porosidades em alguns dos modelos produzidos, sendo as principais causas identificadas a falta de manutenção dos fornos, o nível do líquido metálico no forno, o procedimento operacional, que apresentava fora dos padrões, e a presença de contaminantes na alimentação do forno. Diante disso, o estudo possibilitou comprovar os fatores que causam a formação de óxidos e porosidade, assim como outros fatores, como de equipamento e ação do operador que podem afetar o resultado no processo.
Effect of Mean Platelet Volume on Platelet Rich Plasma Based Injection Therapy in Patients with Osteoarthritis of the Knee JointA Longitudinal Study
Authors: Kothari Ravi K , Bhalara Rohit V , Singh Gyanendra , Dave Rushang M , Dhruva Gauravi A
Published: June 2023

Introduction: There are different types of arthritis seen in elderly patients, of which Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common. Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP), which is derived from blood, contains many growth factors. Platelet count and indices in PRP has association with pain score of OA, further study will prove its significance. Aim: To find the correlation of platelet parameters like platelet count, Mean Platelet Volume (MPV) and Plateletcrit (PCT) with clinical OA improvement score in PRP-treated patients of OA. Materials and Methods: The longitudinal study was done in the Department of Pathology, PDU Civil Hospital, Rajkot, Gujarat, India, from January 2021 to October 2021. Study was conducted on 40 patients, who were administered intra-articular injection of PRP prepared using double spin method. It was injected at the site of maximum pain in the knee joint. Platelet count, MPV and PCT were noted in the pre and post intervention. Patients were followed-up at two months and six months. The data was analysed using Friedman Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and Pearson’s correlation test. Results: The mean age of patients was 58.57±4.95 years and there were 26 (65%) females and 14 (35%) males. Increase in platelet count, MPV, PCT in PRP prepared by double spin method and improvement in Visual Analog Scale (VAS) (Before8.38±0.63; After-4.28±0.85), Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) (Before-63.30±4.99; After- 43.67±5.22) and International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) (Before-45.04±6.06; After-66.14±5.78) score were found to be statistically significant. Correlation of platelet parameters WOMAC with Platelet count (p-value=0.052, R-value=-0.310), VAS with MPV (p-value=0.005, R-value=0.436) and IKDC with PCT (p-value=0.032, R-value=0.339) were also statistically significant at six months follow-up. Conclusion: Single dose intra-articular injection PRP in OA knee with KL Grade 1 and 2 is valuable, efficient and costeffective treatment to reduce or delay in knee replacement. The study showed the significant correlation of platelet parameters with OA improvement scores.
Utilisation of Supplementary Nutritional Services of ICDS by Paediatric Beneficiaries of Central Kerala, India: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Abraham Ruth , Koshy Nileena , Jose Rajany
Published: June 2023

Introduction: Integrated Child Development Scheme (ICDS) is a unique programme for childhood care and development. ICDS had expanded progressively over the past four decades, also the budget allotment for the programme has been increasing over the years. However, the expansion in coverage has not been translated into a proportionate increase in utilisation. Aim: To evaluate the utilisation of supplementary nutritional services of ICDS and also to assess the reasons for not utilising the same by paediatric beneficiaries. Materials and Methods: This community based cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Community Medicine, Government Medical College (selected Rural Community Health Centre), Thrissur district, Kerala, India, during January 2019 to August 2019. A total of 290 children, aged between six months to six years, were permanent residents were selected to participate in the study. Data were collected using pre-tested structured proforma by interviewing all the study subjects. Univariate analysis and logistic regression were used for statistical analysis to find the factors affecting the non utilisation of ICDS services. Results: Among the 290 participants, 141 (48.6%) were in the age group of six months to three years while 149 (51.4%) were in the age group 3-6 years, and 154 (53.1%) were boys and 136 (46.9%) were girls. The regular utilisation of supplementary nutrition was 67 (47.5%, 95% CI- 39.1, 56.1) in the age group six months to three years and 83 (55.7%) in 3-6 years. The main reasons for non utilisation were that children attended playschool and a lack of perceived benefits. Those who lived near Anganwadi Centres (AWC) had significantly higher utilisation. Utilisation among children between 3-6 years of age was significantly lower in those with higher maternal education (p-value<0.001), and who reach Anganwadi by vehicle (p-value<0.001). Conclusion: The study found that regular utilisation of supplementary nutrition was poor. Those who were staying away from Anganwadi and who had higher maternal education had lower utilisation of ICDS nutritional services. Public-private partnerships in providing hot cooked meals from Anganwadi in playschools can be explored to increase utilisation.
Development, Evaluation, and Comparison of an Indigenous ‘APDS’ AI-based Digital Application for Effective Shade Selection of Silicone Maxillofacial Prosthesis: Protocol for A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Pawar Priyadarshani G , Bhoyar Anjali
Published: June 2023

Introduction: Reconstruction of maxillofacial defects is challenging in achieving aesthetic results. Replicating natural skin colour in maxillofacial prosthesis has been traditionally done using trial-and-error methods. However, with their respective limitations, multiple methods have been developed recently, like colourimeter and spectrophotometer. Need for the study: The natural appearance of the prosthesis affects the patient’s emotional and psychological well-being. Therefore, aesthetics is a prime concern now. So, the problem with colour matching of the maxillofacial prosthesis is profound. So, there is a need to develop customised shade guides and more advanced digitised shade-matching applications with Artificial Intelligence (AI) help. Therefore, a concoction of a customised silicon shade guide was contemplated with Advanced Programme in Data Sciences (APDS) AI-based digital application, and its reproducibility in clinical practice will be analysed. Aim: Phase 1- To develop and validate a customised broad spectrum silicon shade guide and APDS AI-based digital application on a survey of the Indian population. Phase 2- Comparative evaluation of the efficacy of indigenous APDS AI-based digital application with available shade guide systems for shade selection for silicone maxillofacial prosthesis. Methodology: A cross-sectional study. The shade guide will be fabricated with medical grade room temperature vulcanising silicone based on an observational survey. The shade guide will consist of three main groups ABC, divided into different subgroups from lighter to darker skin shades, and its accuracy evaluation is done by spectrophotometer. APDS AI-based digital application will be developed using reference from broadspectrum customised maxillofacial shade guide, and efficacy will be evaluated with visual assessment of colour matching by fabricating facial veneers for participants through investigators to investigate the consent of perfect colour match. Data will be statistically analysed.
Semi-Intensive Native Chicken Farming Integrated with Pig Farming: An Economic Analysis
Authors: Hudson G. H.
Published: May 2023

A study was conducted at a native chicken cum pig farm in Kanyakumari District, Tamil Nadu, India, to evaluate its economic feasibility. The native chicken unit yields regular income to the farmer, where the adult chickens, eggs, and day-old chicks are sold to local households on a demand basis at a premium prize. The poultry unit operates at a yearly benefit-cost ratio (BCR) of 3.92, which is attributed to the scavenging nature of the native birds, thereby reducing feed costs. The birds scavenge on maggots produced in the manure pit of the piggery unit, which satisfy the protein requirements of the birds. On the other hand, the piggery unit provides supplementary income to the farmer. The pigs are maintained on swill feed with no additional feed cost. The study demonstrates the feasibility of similar integrated farms with significant production and economic potential.
Impact of Gothan and Godhan Nyay Scheme on the Income of SHGs and Livestock Rearers of Chhattisgarh, India
Authors: Pandey Sneha , Wasnik Sumit B. , Patel Mamta
Published: June 2023

Self-Help groups (SHGs) are informal associations of people who choose to come together to find ways to improve their living conditions and livelihoods, all voluntarily coming together to save small sums of money, on a regular basis. Gothan and Godhan Nyay Yojna of Chhattisgarh are the schemes based on providing profits to the women SHGs and livestock rearers through vermicompost business and selling cow dung respectively. The study aims to examine the performance of Gothan and Godhan Nyay Yojna through the objective of identify the socio-economic status of Self Help Group members and Livestock rearers and analyze the impact of Gothan and Godhan Nyay Yojna on the income of SHGs and livestock rearers. The present study was carried out in Bilaspur, Janjgir-Champa and Raigarh districts of Chhattisgarh with a sample size of 120 members from 12 SHGs and 240 livestock rearers registered under selected areas Gothan. Impact of income of the scheme on Model Gothan SHGs was higher (26 percent). The overall impact of scheme on income of selected self help groups were 21.5 per cent. Impact of scheme on the Income of livestock rearers under Model Gothan’s was highest (38 percent). The average impact of scheme on the selected livestock rearers was 30.5 per cent.
Effects of Social Media Advertising on Consumer Buying Decision Making Process: A Case of Leading Online Shopping Sites in Kenya
Authors: Nungari Mbugua Florence , Obuba Robert
Published: June 2023

The goal of this research was to assess the influence of social media advertising on the buying decision-making process of consumers, using the case of leading online shopping sites in Kenya. the theory of reasoned action was used to frame this investigation. The study was conducted using a descriptive research approach, and the participants were management staff from five online shopping sites situated in Nairobi, Kenya. The population of study included members of staff in the management of top five (5) selected Online Shopping Sites in Kenya: Jumia, Kilimall, Jiji Kenya, Masoko and Copia. After randomly selecting 200 respondents from the target population, the stratified sampling approach was used to pick an unbiased sample of 133 respondents from the target population of 200 respondents. Primary data was gathered via the use of questionnaires. The research issued a total of 133 questionnaires and a total of 90 were filled and returned giving a response rate of 68%. The data will be analyzed with the help of the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software. For ease of understanding, data was coded according to various variables and descriptive statistics such as frequencies, means, and standard deviations. Analysis of regression and correlation were carried out in order to analyze and establish the link between the variables under investigation. The findings on the effect of use of social media advertising on consumer buying decision revealed that respondents agreed that the social media pages is interactive and it influences consumers shopping experience, Facebook and Twitter pages offer content aligned with the brand and gives consumers reasons to keep engaging with the company, making emotional connections through positive consumer experiences, exceptional service and engaging conversations has significantly influenced social media marketing. Respondents also agreed that changing the conversation and engaging fully with existing consumers increases the level of social media marketing. The study recommended that Online shopping sites should develop an online platform that will be engaging fully with existing consumers, providing sufficient information and personal, interesting, timely and responsive.
Application of Big Data to Common Statistical Methods Based on Game Systems
Authors: Shen Jia , Wu Kerui , Liu Yiming
Published: June 2023

In this paper, statistical methods are adopted to analyze its role in data processing and prediction, emphasizing three statistical models of time series model, neural network model based on genetic algorithm and K-means algorithm, systematically introducing how to classify and predict data based on three common statistical methods, and find out the characteristics of data by using the trend of data change. In order to grasp the actual user and other relevant information. Taking MCM C project in 2023 as an example, this paper classifies and analyze the given data, find out the variation characteristics of variables, predicts the development and changes of variables, and provides direction for game companies to further strategies, so as to enhance users' sense of experience. Finally, through comprehensive analysis and processing, three kinds of prediction and classification statistical models are applied deeply to cope with this practical issue.
Ammoniacal and Nitrate Nitrogen Release Pattern from Biochar and Biochar Blended Urea Fertilizers in Sandy Soil
Authors: S. R. Kavya , B. Rani , B. Aparna , R. Gladis
Published: June 2023

Biochar, an organic product of thermal decomposition of biomass in an oxygen limited environment can be used as a nutrient carrier to delay the release of nutrients into the soil, reduce nutrient leaching, and improve the nutrient utilization efficiency of fertilizers. Nutritional enhancement of biochar through fertilizer blending could be a low cost but high efficiency solution compared to non-blended fertilizers. However, the rate of nutrient release from the blended biochar fertilizer in different soils is ambiguous. Hence a 12 month incubation study was conducted in sandy soil (ultisol) of Thiruvananthapuram district of Kerala to elucidate the ammoniacal and nitrate nitrogen release rate and pattern from the produced paddy husk biochar, biochar and biochar bentonite (1:1) each blended with urea fertilizer in different ratios (1:0.5, 1:1, 1:2) including an absolute control. The individual effects of biochar, biochar-bentonite and urea were also studied. Paddy husk biochar was produced by the process of slow pyrolysis and biochar- blended urea fertilizers by the adsorbent process. To evaluate the influence of bentonite clay on the nutrient release pattern of biochar, it was blended with biochar and urea fertilizer. The highest total nitrogen content among the produced fertilizers was recorded in biochar: urea in 1:2 (33.04%) followed by biochar-bentonite: urea in a 1:2 ratio (31.13%). The incubation study revealed that the maximum release of ammoniacal nitrogen from soil+ urea fertilizer was at 30 days (115.73 mg kg-1) followed by a sharp decline, maintaining a low value till the end of incubation, whereas the release was sustained and gradually increased to reach a maximum at the 180th day (117.6 mg kg-1) for soil+ biochar: urea in 1:1 ratio. Nitrate nitrogen also followed the same trend with the maximum release observed for biochar: urea in 1:1 on the 150th day (151.2 mg kg-1). The release of nitrate nitrogen was more than that of ammoniacal nitrogen throughout the incubation period for all the treatments. Among the blended fertilizers, content of both ammoniacal and nitrate nitrogen were comparatively less for biochar –bentonite blended urea fertilizers. Thus, blending of urea with biochar/ biochar-bentonite prolonged the duration of maximum nutrient release.
Assessing Grain Yield and Achieving Enhanced Quality in Maize by Next Generation Fertilizer: A Review
Authors: Sachan Dhruvendra Singh , Reddy K. Jaisimha , Sulochna  , Saini Yonika , Rai Avinash Kumar , Singh Omkar , Laxman Thejavath
Published: June 2023

It explores the potential of advanced fertilizers in improving maize yield and quality while addressing environmental and socioeconomic concerns. Investigating the innovations in fertilizer technologies and their impact on maize cultivation, identifying research gaps and suggesting policy recommendations. The potential of advanced fertilizers for enhancing maize yield and quality while tackling environmental and socioeconomic issues: Advanced fertilizers, marked by enhanced nutrient use efficiency and targeted nutrient delivery, present valuable prospects for sustainable corn farming. This includes progress in fertilizer technologies, combined management strategies, and the effects of these cutting-edge products on corn yield and quality. Additionally, we explore research gaps, areas requiring further study, and policy suggestions to support the adoption of advanced fertilizers in corn production systems. By seizing these opportunities and addressing the related challenges, the global agricultural community can strive for more sustainable, efficient, and productive corn farming practices that contribute to improved food security and nutrition.
Current Breeding Approaches in Pearl Millet to Enhance the Nutritional Quality
Authors: Yadav T. Venu , Meena M. K. , Kumari Varsha , Kunwar Ram , Ram Manohar , Gothwal D. K.
Published: June 2023

Pearl millet is an important millet crop, as it is a powerhouse of nutrition with capability to grow at harsh climatic conditions. It is able to overcome sudden climate changes and other natural disasters which can create food security problem by raising the price of foods there by reduce the availability of food materials. Pearl millet can be an alternative nutritious crop for the poor men which provide enough nutrition for active and healthy life. It is cheap source of nutrition when compared to other major cereal crops. While having its nutrition and health benefits, utilization of this crop is restricted due to lack of knowledge and poor keeping quality.

Different breeding strategies like biofortification breeding, making of synthetic and composites, hybridization techniques by using A,B,R lines, Genomics, Speed breeding are frequently utilized in worldwide. Different improved lines with enhanced zinc and iron content may be used under hybridization programme to overcome the problem of low zinc and iron varieties. Therefore, the aim of this review is to provide the information about nutritional profile, health benefits, biofortification process, current breeding approaches and future prospects.
Effect of Rate and Time of Phosphorous Application and Planting Density on Yield and Net Benefit of Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea)
Authors: Wanjue Ngari Ann , Kingori Gathungu Geofrey , Mahugu Muraya Moses
Published: May 2023

Groundnut yields are relatively very low in Kenya compared to other countries due to the use of poor agronomic practices and low soil fertility, with phosphorous (P) being the most limiting factor. This study aimed at determining the effect of the rate and time of phosphorous application and planting densities on yield and net benefit of groundnut production. The study was conducted in two locations, Chuka University Horticultural Demonstration Farm and Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Organisation, Embu, Kenya between April and August 2018. The study used a 2 x 3 x 3 factorial experiment laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design with three replications. There were three factors; P application rates (0, 30, and 60 Kg/ha), time of P application (at sowing, and 14 days after sowing), and planting densities (148,149; 213,331 and 333,334 plants per ha). Data on the number of kernels per pod, number of empty pods and yield of groundnuts were collected and net benefit determined by subtracting the cost of production from the gross product sale price per unit area. Data collected were subjected to analysis of variance using Statistical Analysis Software version 9.4. Significant means were separated using the Least Significance Difference at a 5% probability level. The results of the study showed that the rate and time of phosphorous application and planting densities had a significant effect (p < 0.05) on the yield of groundnuts. The highest kernel yield and net benefit obtained was 1,659.90 and 963.60 Kg/ha while the highest net benefit was KSh 8312 and 12403 which was obtained by applying 30 Kg/ha of P applied at sowing with a plant density of 333,334 plants per hectare at Chuka and Embu, respectively. The study showed that the use of appropriate agronomic practices can lead to sustainable groundnut production, thus ensuring food security and improved farmers’ income. The study recommends spacing of 30 x 10 cm and application of 30 Kg/ha of Phosphorous at sowing for sustainable groundnut production in the study area and within similar agroecological zones.
Influence of Bio-fertilizers and Plant Geometry on Growth, Yield and Economics of Field Pea (Pisum sativum L.)
Authors: Dasthari Manasa , Debbarma Victor
Published: June 2023

A field experiment was conducted during Rabi 2022 at Crop Research Farm, Department of Agronomy, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj (U.P) to determine the “Influence of Bio-fertilizers and Plant geometry on growth, yield and economics of field pea (Pisum sativum L.)”, The soil of experimental plot was sandy loam in texture, nearly neutral in soil reaction (pH 8.0), low in organic carbon (0.62 %), available N (225 kg/ha), available P (38.2 kg/ha) and available K (240.7 kg/ha),to study the response of plant geometry (20x20 cm,30x10 cm,40x10c m) with the combination of biofertilizers such as, rhizobium (20 g), PSB (20 g) and rhizobium (20 g) + PSB (20 g). The experiment laid out in RBD with 10 treatments each replicated thrice .the results showed that treatment 9 recorded significantly   higher plant height (44.57 cm), maximum number of nodules/plant (7.12), higher plant dry weight (15.32 g), maximum number of pods/plant (20.13), maximum number of seeds/pod (4.00), higher seed index (18.57g), higher seed yield (1243.67kg), maximum straw yield (2656.21kg), higher harvest index (32.93%), maximum gross returns (1,19,838), maximum net returns (85,504) and highest Benefit cost ratio of  (2.49) was recorded.
COVID Stress Scales: A Cross-sectional Study of its Psychometric Properties among Africans with Chronic, Stable Medical Conditions
Authors: Onu J. U. , Nwatu C. B. , Ugwu C. J. , Mbadiwe N. , Onyeaghala C. A. , Udeogu K. E. , Abonyi M. C. , Young E. E. , Unaogu N. N. , Ndukuba A. , Ugwumba F. , Onwuekwe I. O.
Published: June 2023

Background: The coronavirus 2019 pandemic (COVID-19) elicited in various populations, diverse psycho-behavioral responses. The COVID Stress Scales (CSS) was developed and validated in the general population, among US and Canadian adults, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Expectedly, population-specific variations in response are likely, hence, the need to validate psychometrically sound instruments across cultures and diverse populations.

Aim: To determine the factor structure and reliability estimates of the CSS among participants with chronic, stable medical conditions in a Nigerian Tertiary Hospital.

Methods: The cross-sectional study, involved 1047 consenting adults with chronic, stable medical conditions attending the out-patient specialist clinics of a foremost tertiary hospital in Nigeria. The participants were enrolled consecutively over a four-month period straddling the first and second waves of the COVID-19 pandemic. The CSS was administered to participants who fulfilled the study criteria. Exploratory Factor Analyses (EFA) using Principal Component Analysis and Oblimin rotation with Kaiser Normalization, was used to extract the factors. 

Results: A six-factor structure emerged: COVID-19-related socio-economic consequences; contamination; xenophobia; traumatic stress; compulsive checking and reassurance seeking; and danger. The internal consistency within items of each domain was acceptable (Cronbach alpha 0.85 and above) and correlation between the domains was moderate to strong.

Conclusion: The CSS maintained a six-factor structure, corresponding to the six scales, among Nigerian participants with chronic, stable medical conditions. It has acceptable reliability estimates and can be used to assess COVID-19-related anxiety in this population. The inter-correlation of the various domains is a strong evidence for the existence of COVID stress syndrome.
Health Equity and Decentralized Trials
Authors: Dahne Jennifer , Hawk Larry W.
Published: June 2023

This Viewpoint discusses the proliferation of decentralized clinical trials during the COVID-19 pandemic and the need for rigorous studies to inform whether decentralized approaches promote or prevent access to clinical trials for people facing health disparities.
Smart Thermometer–Based Participatory Surveillance to Discern the Role of Children in Household Viral Transmission During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Tseng Yi-Ju , Olson Karen L. , Bloch Danielle , Mandl Kenneth D.
Published: June 2023

Importance

Children’s role in spreading virus during the COVID-19 pandemic is yet to be elucidated, and measuring household transmission traditionally requires contact tracing.

Objective

To discern children’s role in household viral transmission during the pandemic when enveloped viruses were at historic lows and the predominance of viral illnesses were attributed to COVID-19.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cohort study of a voluntary US cohort tracked data from participatory surveillance using commercially available thermometers with a companion smartphone app from October 2019 to October 2022. Eligible participants were individuals with temperature measurements in households with multiple members between October 2019 and October 2022 who opted into data sharing.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Proportion of household transmissions with a pediatric index case and changes in transmissions during school breaks were assessed using app and thermometer data.

Results

A total of 862 577 individuals from 320 073 households with multiple participants (462 000 female [53.6%] and 463 368 adults [53.7%]) were included. The number of febrile episodes forecast new COVID-19 cases. Within-household transmission was inferred in 54 506 (15.4%) febrile episodes and increased from the fourth pandemic period, March to July 2021 (3263 of 32 294 [10.1%]) to the Omicron BA.1/BA.2 wave (16 516 of 94 316 [17.5%]; P < .001). Among 38 787 transmissions in 166 170 households with adults and children, a median (IQR) 70.4% (61.4%-77.6%) had a pediatric index case; proportions fluctuated weekly from 36.9% to 84.6%. A pediatric index case was 0.6 to 0.8 times less frequent during typical school breaks. The winter break decrease was from 68.4% (95% CI, 57.1%-77.8%) to 41.7% (95% CI, 34.3%-49.5%) at the end of 2020 (P < .001). At the beginning of 2022, it dropped from 80.3% (95% CI, 75.1%-84.6%) to 54.5% (95% CI, 51.3%-57.7%) (P < .001). During summer breaks, rates dropped from 81.4% (95% CI, 74.0%-87.1%) to 62.5% (95% CI, 56.3%-68.3%) by August 2021 (P = .02) and from 83.8% (95% CI, 79.2%-87.5) to 62.8% (95% CI, 57.1%-68.1%) by July 2022 (P < .001). These patterns persisted over 2 school years.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cohort study using participatory surveillance to measure within-household transmission at a national scale, we discerned an important role for children in the spread of viral infection within households during the COVID-19 pandemic, heightened when schools were in session, supporting a role for school attendance in COVID-19 spread.
Association of Prescription Co-payment With Adherence to Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonist and Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter-2 Inhibitor Therapies in Patients With Heart Failure and Diabetes
Authors: Essien Utibe R. , Singh Balvindar , Swabe Gretchen , Johnson Amber E. , Eberly Lauren A. , Wadhera Rishi K. , Breathett Khadijah , Vaduganathan Muthiah , Magnani Jared W.
Published: June 2023

Importance

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) and heart failure (HF) prevalence are rising in the US. Although glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP1-RA) and sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) improve outcomes for these conditions, high out-of-pocket costs may be associated with reduced medication adherence.

Objective

To compare 1-year adherence to GLP1-RA and SGLT2i therapies by prescription co-payment level in individuals with T2D and/or HF.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This retrospective cohort study used deidentified data from Optum Insight’s Clinformatics Data Mart Database of enrollees with commercial and Medicare health insurance plans. Individuals aged 18 years or older with T2D and/or HF who had a prescription claim for a GLP1-RA or SLGT2i from January 1, 2014, to September 30, 2020, were included.

Exposures

Prescription co-payment, categorized as low (<$10), medium ($10 to<$50), and high (≥$50).

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome was medication adherence, defined as a proportion of days covered (PDC) of 80% or greater at 1 year. Logistic regression models were used to examine the association between co-payment and adherence, adjusting for patient demographics, medical comorbidities, and socioeconomic factors.

Results

A total of 94 610 individuals (mean [SD] age, 61.8 [11.4] years; 51 226 [54.1%] male) were prescribed GLP1-RA or SGLT2i therapy. Overall, 39 149 individuals had a claim for a GLP1-RA, of whom 25 557 (65.3%) had a PDC of 80% or greater at 1 year. In fully adjusted models, individuals with a medium (adjusted odds ratio [AOR], 0.62; 95% CI, 0.58-0.67) or high (AOR, 0.47; 95% CI, 0.44-0.51) co-payment were less likely to have a PDC of 80% or greater with a GLP1-RA compared with those with a low co-payment. Overall, 51 072 individuals had a claim for an SGLT2i, of whom 37 339 (73.1%) had a PDC of 80% or greater at 1 year. Individuals with a medium (AOR, 0.67; 95% CI, 0.63-0.72) or high (AOR, 0.68; 95% CI, 0.63-0.72) co-payment were less likely to have a PDC of 80% or greater with an SGLT2i compared with those with a low co-payment.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cohort study of individuals with T2D and/or HF, 1-year adherence to GLP1-RA or SGLT2i therapies was highest among individuals with a low co-payment. Improving adherence to guideline-based therapies may require interventions that reduce out-of-pocket prescription costs.
FK506‐binding protein 5 regulates cell quiescence‐proliferation decision in zebrafish epithelium
Authors: Li Yingxiang , Liu Chengdong , Bai Xuanxuan , Li Mingyu , Duan Cunming
Published: June 2023

Using a zebrafish ionocyte model, transcriptomics and genetic analyses were performed to identify pathways and genes involved in cell quiescence‐proliferation regulation. Gene ontology and Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes pathway analyses revealed that genes involved in transcription regulation, cell cycle, Foxo signalling and Wnt signalling pathway are enriched among the up‐regulated genes while those involved in ion transport, cell adhesion and oxidation–reduction are enriched among the down‐regulated genes. Among the top up‐regulated genes is FK506‐binding protein 5 (Fkbp5). Genetic deletion and pharmacological inhibition of Fkbp5 abolished ionocyte reactivation and impaired Akt signalling. Forced expression of a constitutively active form of Akt rescued the defects caused by Fkbp5 inhibition. These results uncover a key role of Fbkp5 in regulating the quiescence‐proliferation decision via Akt signalling.
Experimental Assessment and Micromechanical Modeling of Additively Manufactured Austenitic Steels under Cyclic Loading
Authors: Shahmardani Mahdieh , Logvinov Ruslan , Babinský Tomáš , Guth Stefan , Paul Shubhadip , Biswas Abhishek , Vajragupta Napat , Hartmaier Alexander
Published: June 2023

The present work deals with the cyclic deformation behavior of additively manufactured austenitic stainless steel 316L. Since fatigue experiments are complex and time‐consuming, it is important to develop accurate numerical models to predict cyclic plastic deformation and extrapolate the limited experimental results into a wider range of conditions, considering also the microstructures obtained by additive manufacturing. Herein, specimens of 316L steel are produced by powder bed fusion of metals with laser beams (PBF‐LB/M) with different parameters, and cyclic strain tests are performed to assess their deformation behavior under cyclic loads at room temperature. Additionally, a micromechanical model is set up, based on representative volume elements (RVE) mimicking the microstructure of the experimentally tested material that is characterized by electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) analysis. With the help of these RVEs, the deformation‐dependent internal stresses within the microstructure can be simulated in a realistic manner. The additively manufactured specimens are produced with their loading axis either parallel or perpendicular to the building direction, and the resulting anisotropic behavior under cyclic straining is investigated. Results highlight significant effects of specimen orientation and crystallographic texture and only a minor influence of grain shape on cyclic behavior.
Anisotropic ZnS Nanoclusters/Ordered Macro‐Microporous Carbon Superstructure for Fibrous Supercapacitor toward Commercial‐Level Energy Density
Authors: Wu Xingjiang , Yu Xude , Zhang Zekai , Liu Hengyuan , Ling SiDa , Liu Xueyan , Lian Cheng , Xu Jianhong
Published: June 2023

Fibrous supercapacitor (FSC) is of great attention in wearable electronics, but is challenged by low energy density, owing to disordered diffusion pathway and sluggish redox kinetics. Herein, using micro‐reaction strategy, an anisotropic superstructure is developed by in situ anchoring ultrafine zinc sulfine (ZnS) nanoclusters on conductively ordered macro‐microporous carbon skeleton via interfacial CSZn bonds (ZnS/SOM‐C). The anisotropic superstructure affords 3D ordered macro‐microporous pathways, large accessible surfaces, and highly dispersed active sites, which exhibit enhanced electrolyte mass diffusion, rapid interfacial charge transfer, and large faradaic ions storage (capacitance of 1158 F g−1 in KOH aqueous solution). By microfluidic spinning, the ZnS/SOM‐C is further assembled into fibrous electrode of FSC that delivers high capacitance (791 F g−1), commercial‐level energy density (172 mWh g−1), and durable stability. As a result, the FSC can realize wearable self‐powered applications (e.g., self‐cleaning ventilatory mask, smartwatch, and display), exhibiting the superiority in new energy and wearable industry.
Integrated Piezoelectric/Conductive Composite Cryogel Creates Electroactive Microenvironment for Enhanced Bone Regeneration
Authors: Zheng Tianyi , Pang Yanyun , Zhang Daixing , Wang Yue , Zhang Xu , Leng Huijie , Yu Yingjie , Yang Xiaoping , Cai Qing
Published: June 2023

Natural bone tissue possesses inherent electrophysiological characteristics, displaying conductivity and piezoelectricity simultaneously; hence, the reconstruction of local electrical microenvironment at defect site provides an effective strategy to enhance osteogenesis. Herein, a composite cryogel‐type scaffold (referred to as Gel‐PD‐CMBT) is developed for bone regeneration, utilizing gelatin (Gel) in combination with a conductive poly(ethylene dioxythiophene)/polystyrene sulfonate matrix and Ca/Mn co‐doped barium titanate (CMBT) nanofibers as the piezoelectric filler. The incorporation of these components results in the formation of an integrated piezoelectric/conductive network within the scaffold, facilitating charge migration and yielding a conductivity of 0.59 S cm−1. This conductive scaffold creates a promising electroactive microenvironment, which is capable of up‐regulating biological responses. Furthermore, the interconnected porous structure of the Gel‐PD‐CMBT scaffold not only provides mechanical stability but also offered ample space for cellular and tissue ingrowth. This Gel‐PD‐CMBT scaffold demonstrates a greater capacity to promote cellular osteogenic differentiation in vitro and neo‐bone formation in vivo. In summary, the Gel‐PD‐CMBT scaffold, with its integrated piezoelectricity and conductivity, effectively restores the local electroactive microenvironment, offering an ideal platform for the regeneration of electrophysiological bone tissue.
Retraction: Colloidal Cobalt Phosphide Nanocrystals as Trifunctional Electrocatalysts for Overall Water Splitting Powered by a Zinc–Air Battery
Authors: Li Hui , Li Qi , Wen Peng , Williams Trey B. , Adhikari Shiba , Dun Chaochao , Lu Chang , Itanze Dominque , Jiang Lin , Carroll David L. , Donati George L. , Lundin Pamela M. , Qiu Yejun , Geyer Scott M.
Published: June 2023

Adv. Mater. 2018, 30, 1705796

https://doi.org/10.1002/adma.201705796

The above article, published online on January 15, 2018, in Wiley Online Library (https://doi.org/10.1002/adma.201705796), has been retracted by agreement between the authors, the journal Editor in Chief Jos Lenders, and Wiley‐VCH GmbH. The retraction has been agreed on following concerns raised by a third party and a subsequent investigation at Wake Forest University. Data integrity issues were found in Figures 1a, S2b, and S17. As a result, the authors consider the conclusions of this article invalid.
Orbitally Controlled Quantum Hall States in Decoupled Two‐Bilayer Graphene Sheets
Authors: Kim Soyun , Kim Dohun , Watanabe Kenji , Taniguchi Takashi , Smet Jurgen H. , Kim Youngwook
Published: June 2023

The authors report on integer and fractional quantum Hall states in a stack of two twisted Bernal bilayer graphene sheets. By exploiting the momentum mismatch in reciprocal space, the single‐particle tunneling between both bilayers is suppressed. Since the bilayers are spatially separated by only 0.34 nm, the stack benefits from strong interlayer Coulombic interactions. These interactions can cause the formation of a Bose–Einstein condensate. Indeed, such a condensate is observed for half‐filling in each bilayer sheet. However, only when the partially filled levels have orbital index 1. It is absent for partially filled levels with orbital index 0. This discrepancy is tentatively attributed to the role of skyrmion/anti‐skyrmion pair excitations and the dependence of the energy of these excitations on the orbital index. The application of asymmetric top and bottom gate voltages enables to influence the orbital nature of the electronic states of the graphene bilayers at the chemical potential and to navigate in orbital mixed space. The latter hosts an even denominator fractional quantum Hall state at total filling of −3/2. These observations suggest a unique edge reconstruction involving both electrons and chiral p‐wave composite fermions.
Transforming Growth Factor Beta Promotes Inflammation and Tumorigenesis in Smad4‐Deficient Intestinal Epithelium in a YAP‐Dependent Manner
Authors: Liu Liansheng , Wang Yalong , Yu Shicheng , Liu Huidong , Li Yehua , Hua Shan , Chen Ye‐Guang
Published: June 2023

Transforming growth factor beta (TGF‐β), a multifunctional cytokine, plays critical roles in immune responses. However, the precise role of TGF‐β in colitis and colitis‐associated cancer remains poorly defined. Here, it is demonstrated that TGF‐β promotes the colonic inflammation and related tumorigenesis in the absence of Smad family member 4 (Smad4). Smad4 loss in intestinal epithelium aggravates colitis and colitis‐associated neoplasia induced by dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) and azoxymethane/dextran sulfate sodium (AOM/DSS), leading to over‐activated immune responses and increased TGF‐β1 levels. In Smad4‐deficient organoids, TGF‐β1 stimulates spheroid formation and impairs intestinal stem cell proliferation and lineage specification. YAP, whose expression is directly upregulated by TGF‐β1 after Smad4 deletion, mediates the effect of TGF‐β1 by interacting with Smad2/3. Attenuation of YAP/TAZ prevents TGF‐β1‐induced spheroid formation in Smad4−/– organoids and alleviates colitis and colitis‐associated cancer in Smad4‐deficient mice. Collectively, these results highlight an integral role of the TGF‐β/Smad4 axis in restraining intestinal inflammation and tumorigenesis and suggest TGF‐β or YAP signaling as therapeutic targets for these gastrointestinal diseases intervention.
Nanocrystalline Flash Annealed Nickel Oxide for Large Area Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Ochoa‐Martinez Efrain , Bijani‐Chiquero Shanti , Martínez de Yuso María del Valle , Sarkar Subhrangsu , Diaz‐Perez Horus , Mejia‐Castellanos Roberto , Eickemeyer Felix , Grätzel Michael , Steiner Ullrich , Milić Jovana V.
Published: June 2023

The industrialization of perovskite solar cells requires adequate materials and processes to make them economically viable and environmentally sustainable. Despite promising results in terms of power conversion efficiency and operational stability, several hole‐transport layers currently in use still need to prove their industrial feasibility. This work demonstrates the use of nanocrystalline nickel oxide produced through flash infrared annealing (FIRA), considerably reducing the materials cost, production time, energy, and the amount of solvents required for the hole transport layer. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy reveals a better conversion to nickel oxide and a higher oxygen‐to‐nickel ratio for the FIRA films as compared to control annealing methods, resulting in higher device efficiency and operational stability. Planar inverted solar cells produced with triple cation perovskite absorber result in 16.7% power conversion efficiency for 1 cm2 devices, and 15.9% averaged over an area of 17 cm2.
A Systematic Study Aiming Toward Voltage Noise Elimination in Viscoelastic Poly(methyl methacrylate)–Poly(ethylene oxide) Polymer Blend Electrolytes in Li Metal Battery Cells
Authors: Zardalidis George , Farmakis Filippos
Published: June 2023

Random appearance of micro short circuits and voltage noise is observed, until now, on initial cycles of solid polymer electrolyte high voltage cathode cells with lithium metal anodes. However, this phenomenon also takes place in lower operation voltages such as those in LiFePO4 cathode cells. Approaching the direct/indirect effect of the cathode, the polymer electrolyte, and the anode parts on this initial dendritic bridging between the electrodes separately, a systematic study is carried out toward determining potential causes of voltage noise and ways of prevention. Electrolytes based on the blend of PMMA–PEO show that relying only on the viscoelastic nature cannot prevent the appearance of voltage noise. Liquid polymers are used for the wetting of the cathode active material that lead to a complete pore infiltration. Having ensured the optimization of the interfacial area between the solid electrolyte and the cathode, studies along the directions of the lithium surface pretreatment and polymer ionic conductivity are examined as a means of dendrite growth suppression and cell cycling capabilities improvement, leading to the observation that methylated PEO chains work in favor of both of these directions.
Synthesis of Ni@C as a Magnetic Heterogeneous Catalyst: Application to Benzimidazoles and Quinoxalines fromo‐Phenylenediamines with Primary Amines
Authors: Ramalingam Ariprasanth , Senadi Gopal Chandru
Published: June 2023

Herein, we report a simple and straightforward magnetic heterogeneous catalytic (Ni@C) approach to synthesize benzimidazole and quinoxaline scaffolds fromo‐phenylene diamines with primary amines using H2O as an environmentally benign solvent. The Ni@C catalyst was synthesized using a pyrolysis method and unambiguously analyzed by various characterization techniques. The scope of the catalytic methodology was presented with variouso‐phenylene diamines and primary amines producing a range of benzimidazoles and quinoxalines in good to excellent yields. The notable feature include reusability of the Ni@C catalyst (up to five cycles), synthetic applications to functionalize −NH proton of 1H‐benzimidazole and the gram‐scale synthesis which could be a potential industrial application.
Facile Tuned TSCT‐TADF in Donor‐Acceptor MOF for Highly Adjustable Photonic Modules based on Heterostructures Crystals
Authors: Zhang Bo , Xu Jun , Li Chang‐Tai , Huang Hong‐Liang , Chen Ming‐Xing , Yu Mei‐Hui , Chang Ze , Bu Xian‐He
Published: June 2023

Highly adjustable photonic modules were constructed based on the heterostructures crystals of a new series of donor‐acceptor metal–organic framework (D‐A MOF) featuring highly tunable thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF). By introducing N‐phenylcarbazole and derivatives as donor guests into the acceptor host NKU‐111, highly tunable through‐space charge transfer based TADF could be achieved through the engineering of heavy atom effect, which result in modulatable emission wavelength (540 to 600 nm) and enhanced quantum yield (up to 30.86 %). Furthermore, by rationally integrating the D‐A MOFs with distinctive emissions, rod‐like heterostructures crystals featuring excitation position dependent tip emissions in wide wavelength range (495 to 598 nm) could be fabricated, which could serve as highly potential photonic modules for photonic circuit applications.