bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Arbitrary Multifunctional Vortex Beam Designed by Deep Neural Network
Authors: Peng Pu , Liu Zhengchang , Dai Changhong , He Xiao , Wang Dongyi , Dang Zhibo , Chen Yuxiang , Dai Yuchen , Zhang Han , Sun Shulin , Zhou Lei , Fang Zheyu
Published: April 2023

As topological charge constitutes an infinite‐dimensional Hilbert space, vortex beam has numerous applications in optical communications and other fields where signal capacity is a vital requirement. Multifunctional vortex beams, showing up to different controllable responses subjected to separate combinations of polarization states, have significantly exhibited improved capacity of signal transport. Relying on prior physical knowledge, complex requirement brings tremendous challenge to the design of multifunctional vortex beams. Here, a deep‐learning‐based platform for designing metasurfaces is proposed, which can intelligently generate predesigned multifunctional vortex beams. Employing the proposed strategy, the demonstrations of bifunctional and trifunctional vortex beams are consistent with the design targets. Three samples are fabricated and measured by a Michelson interferometer. Clear observed interference patterns revealed the topological nature of the generated vortex beams, unambiguously justifying the design platform. This intelligent design strategy, which may inspire new ideas in other scientific fields, lays a solid foundation for the high‐performance application of multifunctional vortex beams. This work fully exploits the potential of vortex beams for large‐scale dense data communication and quantum optics with high quantum numbers, which may further promote the development of the integrated photonic chip.
Wild sunflower interference in common bean fields in the Central Rift Valley of Ethiopia
Authors: Fufa Amare , Tessema Taye , Bekeko Zelalem , Mesfin Tewodros
Published: April 2023

The wild sunflower, an invasive alien species, is known to affect the performance of field crops. A field experiment was conducted to estimate the effects of different levels of wild sunflower and common bean densities on common bean yield components and grain yield, as well as to quantify yield loss due to their competition at varying densities. The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design in a factorial arrangement with four replications. Hence, factorial combinations of three common bean densities and five wild sunflower densities were tested at two locations. At 24 plants m−2, wild sunflower had maximum dry biomass of 413.84 and 549.83 g−2 at Adamitulu and Melkassa, respectively. An increase in wild sunflower density from 0 to 24 plants m−2 resulted in a reduction of pods per plant up to 62.41% and 83.11%, respectively, at Adamitulu and Melkassa. Compared to the weed‐free plot, the highest wild sunflower density (24 plants m−2) had a 4.6‐fold reduction in seed per pod. Weed‐free plots at Adamitulu and Melkassa yielded the highest grain yields of 2.77 and 3.37 t ha−1, respectively. Common bean grain yield reduced by 88.12% and 67.64%, in Adamitulu and Melkassa, due to the highest density of wild sunflower. The rectangular hyperbolic equation fits common bean grain yields well. This study, hence, proposes that wild sunflower plants be kept at a density of no more than three plants per meter square to minimize severe yield loss and help common bean growers make decisions on wild sunflower control.
Late postemergence glufosinate‐based programs for glyphosate‐resistant Palmer amaranth control in dicamba/glufosinate/glyphosate‐resistant soybean
Authors: Kumar Vipan , Aulakh Jatinder S. , Liu Rui , Jhala Amit J.
Published: April 2023

Glyphosate‐resistant (GR) Palmer amaranth (Amaranthus palmeri S. Watson) is widespread in the Central Great Plains. Introduction of newly developed dicamba/glufosinate/glyphosate (DGG)‐resistant soybean varieties allows postemergence (POST) applications of dicamba and glufosinate for in‐season control of GR Palmer amaranth. Limited information exists on the effectiveness of glufosinate applied late‐POST for tall (70–90 cm) GR Palmer amaranth control in DGG‐resistant soybean. The objectives of this study were to (1) determine the effectiveness of late‐POST glufosinate‐based programs for GR Palmer amaranth control, and (2) determine the impact of those programs on soybeans grain yields. Ten glufosinate‐based programs were tested in a field study at Kansas State University Agricultural Research Center near Hays, Kansas. Results indicated that single (655 or 737 g ha−1) and all sequential (594 followed by [fb] 594, 655 fb 594, and 737 fb 594 g ha−1) applications (7‐days apart) of glufosinate provided 87%–93% control of GR Palmer amaranth 28 days after last POST (DALPOST). Palmer amaranth control with single late‐POST application of glufosinate (594 g ha−1) or glufosinate plus S‐metolachlor did not exceed 84% at 28 DALPOST. Majority of the evaluated programs reduced shoot dry weights of GR Palmer amaranth by 83%–91%. The least control (11%) and shoot dry weight reduction (33%) of GR Palmer amaranth were observed with glyphosate fb glyphosate. Glufosinate‐based programs resulted in soybean grain yield of 626–701 kg ha−1. These results conclude that glufosinate applied late‐POST may provide effective control of tall GR Palmer amaranth in DGG‐resistant soybeans.
Thin‐Film‐Shaped Flexible Actuators
Authors: Pang Wenbo , Xu Shiwei , Liu Liya , Bo Renheng , Zhang Yihui
Published: April 2023

Human‐like and creature‐like systems are one of the most representative imaginary blueprints of future robots. To fulfill this blueprint, the development of high‐performance actuators across different length scales is indispensable. Owing to their mechanical compliance and conformability to curvy surfaces of living organisms, flexible actuators have emerged as an essential direction of next‐generation actuators. This review focuses on thin‐film‐shaped flexible actuators (TFFAs), a rising family of flexible actuators, aiming to provide an overview of the state‐of‐art status in this exciting direction. The designs, manufacturing, and mechanisms of various TFFAs are summarized, according to their key composing materials/mechanisms, including, for example, nanomaterials, liquid crystal elastomers, shape memory polymers/alloys, hydrogels, biohybrids, and other mechanisms/materials. The representative applications of TFFAs are introduced, ranging from biomedical uses, robots for environment explorations, to haptic interfaces and reconfigurable electronics. Finally, the grand challenges and open opportunities are discussed in detail.
Efficient Synthesis of Medium‐sized Nitrogen Heterocycles by Brønsted Acid‐Catalyzed Cyclization of Ene‐ynamides
Authors: Yamaoka Yousuke , Takeuchi Nao , Yamada Ken‐ichi , Takasu Kiyosei
Published: April 2023

A Brønsted acid‐catalysed cyclization of ene‐ynamides has been developed to construct 7‐ or 8‐membered azacycles in good to high yields. The use of a simple C=C double bond as a nucleophile enables the synthesis of medium‐sized ring from an acyclic ynamide. This reaction system features simple and mild reaction conditions without any metal catalysts, and no requirement of high dilution for medium‐sized ring formation. This method is applicable to a variety of substituents on the ynamides, such as alkyl, aryl, acetylene and silyloxy group.
Synthesis, characterization, crystal structure, thermal and redox behaviour and antiproliferative studies of morpholine‐based two copper(II) compounds
Authors: Mandal Naba Kr , Nandi Sudeshna , Acharya Krishnendu , Naskar Jnan Prakash
Published: April 2023

Two novel copper(II) complexes, [Cu(L)(Cl)2](H2O) (1) and [Cu(L)(N3)2] (2), have been synthesized from a morpholine‐based N,N,N donor tridentate Schiff base ligand, (E)‐N‐(2‐morpholinoethyl)‐1‐phenyl‐1‐(pyridin‐2‐yl)methanimine (L). Ligand (L) and its stabilized complexes, 1 and 2, have been comprehensively characterized by different physical and spectroscopic techniques. Solid‐state single‐crystal X‐ray structures of both 1 and 2 have been determined. Powder X‐ray diffraction studies on the bulk samples of 1 and 2 have been executed to demonstrate that the synthesized bulk materials retain their solid‐phase purity as that exists in the single crystals. Cyclic voltammetric experiments have been done to demonstrate the redox behaviour of 1 and 2. UV–vis spectra of the copper(II) complexes with variation in time were accrued to probe that both 1 and 2 retain their stability in solution. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) has been performed to collate the thermal stability of 1 along with its possible thermal degradation behaviour. Room temperature magnetic moments of 1 and 2 have been determined. Cytotoxic activity of 1 and 2 has been screened against non‐small human lung cancer cell, A549.
Temperature‐triggered oxidative polymerization for high conductive poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene) sheets at millimeter scale
Authors: Fan Wei , Xu Fang , Gong Kun , Lou Hongfei , Zhang Xubo , Liu Dongzhi , Li Wei , Zhou Xueqin
Published: April 2023

Poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) is one of the most widely used conductive polymers extensively applied in the electronic components and optoelectronic devices. However, its insolubility and infusibility lead to a complex in situ polymerization process or a sacrificed conductivity in practice. In this paper, we report a facile preparation method of high conductive PEDOT sheets through in situ oxidative polymerization of stable EDOT one‐pot prepolymerization solution. The prepolymerization solution is solvent‐free and can be maintained for more than 30 days at about −20°C. The oxidative polymerization can be triggered by temperature to achieve uniform PEDOT sheets with a thickness ranging from 200 nm to over 2 mm. The thick PEDOT sheets obtained through a mold exhibit a conductivity over 1 S cm−1depending on the thickness. For electromagnetic shielding applications, PEDOT sheets of 500 μm thickness are capable of shielding over 99% of electromagnetic waves. The thin PEDOT sheets prepared by spin‐coating display high conductivity with a sheet resistance as low as 110 Ω sq−1, superior to those prepared by the oxidant‐triggered oxidative polymerization. The temperature‐triggered oxidative polymerization can be a promising strategy for the preparation of high conductive PEDOT sheets.
Biodiesel as a transport fuel, advantages and disadvantages: review
Authors: Gebremariam Shemelis Nigatu
Published: April 2023

World energy demand is increasing due to expanding economic activity, which in turn is driven by population growth and improving standards of living. Economic activity, in one way or another, requires mobility, and this is consuming most of the world oil supply. In this regard, energy consumption in the transport sector is becoming the determining factor in sustaining ever increasing economic activity. Meanwhile, it is very evident that the transport sector is responsible for about 29% of total energy‐related CO2 emissions. The possible solution suggested by many scholars, to avert the negative environmental effect of using conventional transport fuels, entails shifting to renewable forms of energy like liquid biofuels and electricity. Among the liquid biofuels, biodiesel is receiving due recognition for its environmental and fuel benefits. The use of biodiesel as a transport fuel has many advantages and disadvantages. These are associated with a number of factors including the characteristics of the raw materials used, the type of processes applied for biodiesel production, and the blending/mixing ratio with other fuels and with additives. Accordingly, this paper reviews the research carried out in relation to biodiesel as transport fuel, emphasizing the technical and economic aspects of the advantages and disadvantages of using biodiesel as transport fuel. The various biodiesel fuel properties are reviewed and the major factors affecting these properties are indicated. The main drawbacks of biodiesel as transport fuel include its inferior oxidative stability and cold flow properties as well as its cost. © 2023 Society of Industrial Chemistry and John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Possible mitigating effect of adropin on lung injury in diabetic rats: Targeting the role of Rho A/Rho‐associated kinase pathway
Authors: Rizk Fatma H. , El‐Saka Mervat H. , Ibrahim Rowida Raafat , El‐Deeb Omnia Safwat , Ibrahim Hoda A. , El Saadany Amira A. , Mashal Shaimaa S. , Ammar Leila , Abdelsattar Amal M. , Barhoma Ramez A.
Published: April 2023

This study evaluated possible mitigating effect of adropin on lung injury in diabetic rats, targeting role of Rho A/Rho‐associated kinase pathway. Rats were allocated into four groups: control, adropin, diabetic, and diabetic+adropin groups. At the termination of the experiment, serum fasting glucose, insulin and adropin levels and insulin resistance were calculated. Wet/dry ratio, histopathological, immunohistochemical analyses, and relative real time gene expression of lung tissue was determined. Interleukin‐6, tumor necrosis factor alpha, malondialdehyde, 8‐Oxo‐2′‐deoxyguanosine, reduced glutathione, superoxide dismutase, Bcl‐2, BAX, myeloperoxidase, intracellular adhesion molecule‐1, vascular cell adhesion molecule‐1, and transforming growth factor‐β were determined in lung tissue. Adropin treatment in diabetic rats notably attenuated hyperglycemia and insulin resistance. Also, it mitigated diabetic lung injury via suppressing effect on Rho A/ROCK pathway, apoptosis, inflammatory reactions, oxidative stress, and fibrosis of lung tissue. Adropin can be considered as a promising therapeutic agent for treating diabetic lung injury.
Considerations for operational space definition and optimization of a no‐salt flowthrough hydrophobic interaction chromatography purification step
Authors: Dilks Allyson Tucker , Gilchrist Joanne , Lam Yik , Nicholes Nathan , Stanley Brad
Published: April 2023

No‐salt flowthrough hydrophobic interaction chromatography (HIC) has been shown to effectively remove process and product‐related impurities from bioprocess streams. In this publication, a panel of six antibodies has been used to demonstrate operating principles for the application of no‐salt flowthrough HIC in antibody purification processes. The results indicate that no‐salt flowthrough HIC provides robust aggregate clearance across operating conditions including flow rate, and variations in resin ligand density. Additionally, HMW reduction has an optimal pH range relative to the isoelectric point of each molecule and high molecular weight (HMW) reduction can be improved by altering the total protein load and/or HMW concentration to drive binding of high molecular weight species to the resin.
Prediagnostic markers of insulin resistance and prostate cancer risk and death: A pooled study
Authors: Jochems Sylvia H. J. , Fritz Josef , Häggström Christel , Stattin Pär , Stocks Tanja
Published: April 2023

Background

Insulin resistance has been shown to be related to a higher risk of several cancers, but the association with prostate cancer (PCa) has been inconsistent.

Methods

We investigated prediagnostic markers of insulin resistance in men in four cohorts in Sweden, in relation to PCa risk (total, non‐aggressive and aggressive) and PCa death using multivariable‐adjusted Cox regression. The number of men, PCa cases and PCa deaths was up to 66,668, 3940 and 473 for plasma glucose and the triglyceride‐glucose (TyG) index, and up to 3898, 586 and 102 for plasma insulin, glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) and leptin.

Results

Higher HbA1c was related to a lower risk of non‐aggressive PCa but no significant associations were found for insulin resistance markers with the risk of aggressive or total PCa. In PCa cases, higher glucose and TyG index were related to a higher risk of PCa death (hazard ratio [HR] per higher standard deviation, 1.22, 95% CI 1.00–1.49 and 1.24, 95% CI 1.00–1.55), which further increased when restricting the analyses to glucose and TyG index measures taken <10 years before the PCa diagnosis (HR, 1.70, 95% CI 1.09–2.70 and 1.66, 95% CI 1.12–2.51). No associations were observed for other markers in relation to PCa death.

Conclusions

The results of this study showed no associations of insulin resistance markers with the risk of clinically relevant PCa, but higher glucose and TyG index were associated with poorer survival from PCa. The lack of association for other insulin resistance markers may be due to their smaller sample size.
Towards more accurate classification of risk of arrest among offenders on community supervision: An application of machine learning versus logistic regression
Authors: Maynard Brandy R. , Vaughn Michael G. , Prasad‐Srivastava Sweta , Alsolami Abdullaziz , DeLisi Matthew , McGuire Dyan
Published: April 2023

Background

Although there is general consensus about the behavioural, clinical and sociodemographic variables that are risk factors for reoffending, optimal statistical modelling of these variables is less clear. Machine learning techniques offer an approach that may provide greater accuracy than traditional methods.

Aim

To compare the performance of advanced machine learning techniques (classification trees and random forests) to logistic regression in classifying correlates of rearrest among adult probationers and parolees in the United States.

Method

Data were from the subgroup of people on probation or parole who had taken part in the National Survey on Drug Use and Health for the years 2015–2019. We compared the performance of logistic regression, classification trees and random forests, using receiver operating characteristic curves, to examine the correlates of arrest within the past 12 months.

Results

We found that machine learning techniques, specifically random forests, possessed significantly greater accuracy than logistic regression in classifying correlates of arrest.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest the potential for enhanced risk classification. The next step would be to develop applications for criminal justice and clinical practice to inform better support and management strategies for former offenders in the community.
Sicheres Experimentieren – zwei Umsetzungshilfen
Authors: Klemeyer Horst
Published: April 2023

Die Bildungsstandards Chemie der Kultusministerkonferenz (KMK) legen fest, dass der Chemieunterricht grundsätzlich als Experimentalunterricht zu erteilen ist, da bei der Erkenntnisgewinnung die Experimente von zentraler Bedeutung sind. Dabei sind Sicherheitsregeln zu beachten. Eine Datenbank hilft bei der Gefährdungsbeurteilung.
AuxPdy‐based Heterogeneous Nanocatalysts for Plasmon‐mediated Enhanced Catalysis under Visible Light Irradiation
Authors: Verma Priyanka , Mhembere Panashe M. , Tallone Paolo , Manzoli Maela , Cerrato Giuseppina , Watanabe Ryo , Fukuhara Choji , Raja Robert , Yamashita Hiromi
Published: April 2023

The formation of hybrid plasmonic nanocatalysts made of Au nanoparticles (NPs) combined with catalytically active NPs has gained great attention owing to their interesting properties and efficient catalysis under visible light irradiation. However, the research on the combination of plasmonic metal NPs with unique support frameworks is still limited. In this report, the varying ratio of AuxPdy prepared by the extrusion method on the CuClP framework has been correlated to its optimized catalysis in the Suzuki‐Miyaura coupling reaction in dark and under visible light irradiation. The prepared catalysts AuxPdy/CuClP were characterized by spectroscopic techniques to understand the structural and electronic modification with different metal ratios. The presence of bimetallic NPs on the surface was confirmed by HR‐TEM measurements and [MCl4]n− species in the framework were validated by XPS, FT‐EXAFS, DR UV‐Vis‐NIR, and Raman analysis. The obtained results display the superior catalytic performance and highest plasmonic enhancement factor over Au1Pd1/CuClP under visible light irradiation, which was facilely recycled and reused for several cycles. The hot‐electron transfer mechanism has been discussed for enhanced catalysis in the plasmon‐driven Suzuki−Miyaura coupling reaction. These results are highly significant in the rational design of new plasmonic photocatalysts combined with unique support materials.
Next‐generation matrices for marine metapopulations: The case of sea lice on salmon farms
Authors: Harrington Peter D. , Cantrell Danielle L. , Lewis Mark A.
Published: April 2023

Classifying habitat patches as sources or sinks and determining metapopulation persistence requires coupling connectivity between habitat patches with local demographic rates. While methods to calculate sources, sinks, and metapopulation persistence exist for discrete‐time models, there is no method that is consistent across modeling frameworks. In this paper, we show how next‐generation matrices, originally popularized in epidemiology to calculate new infections after one generation, can be used in an ecological context to calculate sources and sinks as well as metapopulation persistence in marine metapopulations. To demonstrate the utility of the method, we construct a next‐generation matrix for a network of sea lice populations on salmon farms in the Broughton Archipelago, BC, an intensive salmon farming region on the west coast of Canada where certain salmon farms are currently being removed under an agreement between local First Nations and the provincial government. The column sums of the next‐generation matrix can determine if a habitat patch is a source or a sink and the spectral radius of the next‐generation matrix can determine the persistence of the metapopulation. With respect to salmon farms in the Broughton Archipelago, we identify the salmon farms which are acting as the largest sources of sea lice and show that in this region the most productive sea lice populations are also the most connected. The farms which are the largest sources of sea lice have not yet been removed from the Broughton Archipelago, and warming temperatures could lead to increased sea louse growth. Calculating sources, sinks, and persistence in marine metapopulations using the next‐generation matrix is biologically intuitive, mathematically equivalent to previous methods, and consistent across different modeling frameworks.
Translational immunology: Applying fundamental discoveries to human health and autoimmune diseases
Authors: Buckner Jane H.
Published: April 2023

Studying the human immune system is challenging. These challenges stem from the complexity of the immune system itself, the heterogeneity of the immune system between individuals, and the many factors that lead to this heterogeneity including the influence of genetics, environment, and immune experience. Studies of the human immune system in the context of disease are increased in complexity as multiple combinations and variations in immune pathways can lead to a single disease. Thus, although individuals with a disease may share clinical features, the underlying disease mechanisms and resulting pathophysiology can be diverse among individuals with the same disease diagnosis. This has consequences for the treatment of diseases, as no single therapy will work for everyone, therapeutic efficacy varies among patients, and targeting a single immune pathway is rarely 100% effective. This review discusses how to address these challenges by identifying and managing the sources of variation, improving access to high‐quality, well‐curated biological samples by building cohorts, applying new technologies such as single‐cell omics and imaging technologies to interrogate samples, and bringing to bear computational expertise in conjunction with immunologists and clinicians to interpret those results. The review has a focus on autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, MS, systemic lupus erythematosus, and type 1 diabetes, but its recommendations are also applicable to studies of other immune‐mediated diseases.
The association between women's disability and acceptance towards intimate partner violence among women and their male partners: A multi‐country analysis
Authors: Zhang Cheyu , Kanselaar Samantha , Zaidi Jaffer , Gupta Jhumka
Published: April 2023

Objective

To examine whether disabled women are more likely to report accepting attitudes towards intimate partner violence (IPV) than non‐disabled women, and whether male partners of disabled women are more likely to accept IPV than male partners of non‐disabled women.

Methods

Secondary analysis of nationally representative cross‐sectional data from the Demographic Health Survey (DHS) in nine countries. Logistic regression examined the relationship between (1) women's disability and IPV acceptance (n = 114 695) and (2) women's disability and their male partners' IPV acceptance (n = 20 566); pooled and country‐specific estimates were calculated.

Results

IPV acceptance ranged from 5% to 80% among women and from 5% to 56% among male partners. Overall, disabled women were more accepting of IPV than non‐disabled women (pooled adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.14, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.08–1.20), with country‐specific aOR ranging from 1.05 to 1.63. Overall, disabled women's male partners had higher likelihood of IPV acceptance than non‐disabled women's partners (pooled aOR 1.13, 95% CI 1.00–1.28).; country‐specific estimates varied (aOR range from 0.56 to 1.40).

Conclusion

Disabled women and their male partners had higher IPV acceptance compared with non‐disabled women and their male partners. More research is needed to better understand this association, including disability‐associated discrimination. Findings underscore the importance of more research with disabled women and their partners to address IPV.
‘Nobody taught her how to be a mother’: The lived experience of mothering without a mother
Authors: Walsh Amy , Tiernan Bridget , Thompson Brent , McCormack David , Adair Pauline
Published: April 2023

Maternal grandmothers play a vital role in the transition to motherhood for their own daughters. The current study adds to this literature by investigating the lived experience of motherhood for women who lacked a meaningful relationship with their mothers. Ten mothers of children under 2 years of age participated in a semi‐structured interview to explore their lived experiences of being a mother. Women were recruited from two parent‐infant services in Northern Ireland. The interviews were analyzed using Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis (IPA). Three superordinate themes were identified: ‘The Birth of a Mother’, ‘Mourning and Loss’ and ‘Ghosts in the Nursery’. The first theme captured the significant change of identity women experienced during their transition to motherhood. This identity change shed new light on their own experience of being mothered. The second theme captured the mourning and loss these women felt due to their relationship with their mother. Their lack of meaningful maternal relationships have left a hole impossible to fill. The final theme spoke to the intergenerational element of these mother's experience and their desire to break a cycle of maternal deprivation. The rich content from the interviews highlights the need for services to be aware of this struggle of motherhood.
Pre‐exposure prophylaxis adherence and discontinuation at an urban pre‐exposure prophylaxis program in Atlanta, Georgia
Authors: Yacout Hiba , Smith Bradley L. , Foster Shelbie , Lora Meredith , Niles‐Carnes Larisa V. , Zheng Ziduo , Kundu Suprateek , Cantos Valeria D.
Published: April 2023

Oral pre‐exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) effectiveness is directly correlated with medication adherence. Grady Health System (GHS) developed a PrEP program to optimize PrEP uptake in Atlanta, Georgia. The purpose of this study is to determine PrEP medication adherence and its associated factors during the first 18 months of the program's implementation. A single‐center, retrospective chart review was conducted on patients enrolled in a PrEP program in Atlanta, Georgia, between June 1, 2018 and February 29, 2020, who received more than one PrEP prescription. The primary outcome was mean adherence to PrEP, using the medication possession ratio (MPR). This study included 154 primarily young patients (mean 34 years of age), Black (70.8%), uninsured (59.1%), and cisgender men (62.3%). Mean PrEP adherence was 89.2%; 77.3% of patients had an MPR ≥ 80% (high adherence). Of all patients, 71 (46%) met PrEP discontinuation criteria. This PrEP program demonstrated high levels of PrEP adherence with discontinuation rates similar to other PrEP programs nationwide, despite a higher index of social vulnerability in the area. Future areas of research include identifying the specific program‐related factors that may optimize PrEP adherence in areas with high indices of social vulnerability.
Novel acoustic radiation force optical coherence elastography based on ultrasmall ultrasound transducer for biomechanics evaluation of in vivo cornea
Authors: Zhu Yirui , Zhao Yanzhi , Shi Jiulin , Gomez Alvarez‐arenas Tomas E. , Yang Hongwei , Cai Hongling , Zhang Dong , He Xingdao , Wu Xiaoshan
Published: April 2023

We developed a novel acoustic radiation force optical coherence elastography (ARF‐OCE) based on an ultrasmall ultrasound transducer for quantitative biomechanics evaluations of in vivo cornea. A custom single‐sided meta‐ultrasonic transducer with an outer diameter of 1.8 mm, focal spot diameter of 1.6 mm, central frequency of 930 kHz, and focal length of 0.8 mm was applied to excite the sample. The sample arm of the ARF‐OCE system employed a three‐dimensional printed holder that allowed for ultrasound excitation and ARF‐OCE detection. The phase‐resolved algorithm was combined with a Lamb wave model to depth‐resolved evaluate corneal biomechanics after keratoconus and cross‐linking treatments (CXL). The results showed that, compare to the healthy cornea, the Lamb wave velocity was significantly reduced in the keratoconus, increased in the cornea after CXL, and increased with cross‐linked irradiation energy in the cornea. These results indicated the good clinical translation potential of the proposed novel ARF‐OCE.
Does better access to finance help firms deal with the COVID‐19 pandemic? Evidence from firm‐level survey data
Authors: Amin Mohammad , Viganola Domenico
Published: April 2023

The impact of the firm's pre‐pandemic financial condition on the likelihood of a decline in its sales due to the COVID‐19 pandemic in 35 developing and emerging countries is estimated. Results show that better access to finance reduces the likelihood of a decline in sales. Access to finance is more effective in arresting sales declines when firms fear that production cuts may lead to the loss of skilled workers and hard‐to‐replace input suppliers. It is less effective when workers, like women, do not wish to continue working for health or family reasons. Important policy implications are discussed.
Vaccine cold chain in remote environments: culturally appropriate training opportunities, an evaluation
Authors: Belton Suzanne , Schultz Rosalie , Speare Tobias
Published: April 2023

Vaccines are temperature‐sensitive, and they may lose effectiveness without correct storage. Research in remote Australia raised questions regarding the integrity of the vaccine cold chain to Aboriginal communities and prompted the development of a video resource, Vaccine Story, to raise awareness of maintaining the cold chain. This study describes the development and evaluation of the Vaccine Story video. Local engagement helped to refine and produce the video. Ethics approval was gained from the Menzies School of Health Research Human Ethics Committee (20–3807) and the Central Australian Human Ethics Committee (17–2869) in 2020. The evaluation was considered low risk to all participants. An online anonymous survey tested the appropriateness and effectiveness of the Vaccine Story video to enhance knowledge and awareness of risks to the vaccine cold chain and the potential implementation of the Vaccine Story video. Diverse health professionals and other staff (n = 83) completed the survey. Responses highlighted a lack of training around the packing and transport of vaccines, particularly for non‐clinical support staff. Respondents stated the health messaging in the Vaccine Story video was effective. Over half of respondents (52%) recommend the use of the video as a training tool. The Vaccine Story video addresses some concerns regarding vaccine transportation and storage in remote Aboriginal communities through strengthening understanding of the importance of cold chain.
Improved Swelling Property of Tissue Adhesive Hydrogels Based on α‐Cyclodextrin/Decyl Group‐Modified Alaska Pollock Gelatin Inclusion Complexes
Authors: Komatsu Hiyori , Watanabe Shiharu , Ito Shima , Nagasaka Kazuhiro , Nishiguchi Akihiro , Taguchi Tetsushi
Published: April 2023

Adhesives/sealants are used after suturing to prevent leakage of cerebrospinal fluid from an anastomotic site. Commercial adhesives/sealants have been used to close the cerebral dura. However, swelling of the cured adhesives/sealants induces increased intracranial pressure and decreases the strength of the seal. In the present study, tissue adhesive hydrogels with improved swelling property using inclusion complex composed of α‐cyclodextrin (αCD) and decyl group (C10)‐modified Alaska pollock‐derived gelatin (C10‐ApGltn) with a high degree of substitution (DS) (>20 mol%) are developed. Viscosity of C10‐ApGltn with a high DS solution remarkably decreased by the addition of αCD. The resulting αCD/C10‐ApGltn adhesive hydrogel composed of αCD/C10‐ApGltn inclusion complexes and poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG)‐based crosslinker showed improved swelling property after immersion in saline. Also, the resulting adhesive has a significantly higher burst strength than fibrin‐based adhesives and is as strong as a PEG‐based adhesive. Quantitative analysis of αCD revealed that the improved swelling property of the resulting adhesive hydrogels is induced by the release of αCD from cured adhesive, and the subsequent assembly of decyl groups in the saline. These results suggest that adhesives developed using the αCD/C10‐ApGltn inclusion complex can be useful for closing the cerebral dura mater.
Mass spectrometric approaches in discovering lipid biomarkers for COVID‐19 by lipidomics: Future challenges and perspectives
Authors: B. Gowda Siddabasave Gowda , Shekhar Chandra , Gowda Divyavani , Chen Yifan , Chiba Hitoshi , Hui Shu‐Ping
Published: April 2023

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) has emerged as a global health threat and has rapidly spread worldwide. Significant changes in the lipid profile before and after COVID‐19 confirmed the significance of lipid metabolism in regulating the response to viral infection. Therefore, understanding the role of lipid metabolism may facilitate the development of new therapeutics for COVID‐19. Owing to their high sensitivity and accuracy, mass spectrometry (MS)‐based methods are widely used for rapidly identifying and quantifying of thousands of lipid species present in a small amount of sample. To enhance the capabilities of MS for the qualitative and quantitative analysis of lipids, different platforms have been combined to cover a wide range of lipidomes with high sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy. Currently, MS‐based technologies are being established as efficient methods for discovering potential diagnostic biomarkers for COVID‐19 and related diseases. As the lipidome of the host cell is drastically affected by the viral replication process, investigating lipid profile alterations in patients with COVID‐19 and targeting lipid metabolism pathways are considered to be crucial steps in host‐directed drug targeting to develop better therapeutic strategies. This review summarizes various MS‐based strategies that have been developed for lipidomic analyzes and biomarker discoveries to combat COVID‐19 by integrating various other potential approaches using different human samples. Furthermore, this review discusses the challenges in using MS technologies and future perspectives in terms of drug discovery and diagnosis of COVID‐19.
Effects of sponge‐to‐sponge contact on the microbiomes of three spatially competing Caribbean coral reef species
Authors: Gantt Shelby E. , Erwin Patrick M.
Published: April 2023

Sponges perform important ecosystem functions, host diverse microbial symbiont communities (microbiomes), and have been increasing in density on Caribbean coral reefs over the last decade. Sponges compete for space in coral reef communities through both morphological and allelopathic strategies, but no studies of microbiome impacts during these interactions have been conducted. Microbiome alterations mediate spatial competition in other coral reef invertebrates and may similarly impact competitive outcomes for sponges. In this study, we characterized the microbiomes of three common Caribbean sponges (Agelas tubulata, Iotrochota birotulata, and Xestospongia muta) observed to naturally interact spatially in Key Largo, Florida (USA). For each species, replicate samples were collected from sponges in contact with neighbors at the site of contact (contact) and distant from the site of contact (no contact), and from sponges spatially isolated from neighbors (control). Next‐generation amplicon sequencing (V4 region of 16S rRNA) revealed significant differences in microbial community structure and diversity among sponge species, but no significant effects were observed within sponge species across all contact states and competitor pairings, indicating no large community shifts in response to direct contact. At a finer scale, particular symbiont taxa (operational taxonomic units at 97% sequence identity, OTUs) were shown to decrease significantly in some interaction pairings, suggesting localized effects for specific sponge competitors. Overall, these results revealed that direct contact during spatial competition does not significantly alter microbial community composition or structure of interacting sponges, suggesting that allelopathic interactions and competitive outcomes are not mediated by microbiome damage or destabilization.
Maternal migraine and risk of pediatric cancers
Authors: Orimoloye Helen T. , Heck Julia E. , Charles Andrew , Saechao Chai , He Di , Federman Noah , Olsen Jorn , Ritz Beate , Hansen Johnni
Published: April 2023

Background

Maternal migraine has been linked to adverse birth outcomes including low birth weight and preterm birth, as well as congenital anomalies in offspring. It has been speculated that this may be due to the use of medications in pregnancy, but lifestyle, genetic, hormonal, and neurochemical factors could also play a role. There is evidence for varying cancer incidences among adults with migraine. Here, we utilized data from national registries in Denmark to examine associations between maternal diagnoses of migraine and risk for cancer in offspring.

Methods

We linked several national registries in Denmark to identify cases from the Cancer Registry among children less than 20 years (diagnoses 1996–2016) and controls from the Central Population Register, matched to cases by birth year and sex (25:1 matching rate). Migraine diagnoses were identified from the National Patient Register using International Classification of Diseases, versions 8 and 10 codes and migraine‐specific acute or prophylactic treatment recorded in the National Pharmaceutical Register. We used logistic regression to estimate the risk of childhood cancers associated with maternal migraine.

Results

Maternal migraine was positively associated with risk for non‐Hodgkin lymphoma (odds ratio [OR] = 1.70, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.01–2.86), central nervous system tumors ([OR = 1.31, 95% CI: 1.02–1.68], particularly glioma [OR = 1.64, 95% CI: 1.12–2.40]), neuroblastoma (OR = 1.75, 95% CI: 1.00–3.08), and osteosarcoma (OR = 2.60, 95% CI: 1.18–5.76).

Conclusions

Associations with maternal migraine were observed for several childhood cancers, including neuronal tumors. Our findings raise questions about the role of lifestyle factors, sex hormones, genetic, and neurochemical factors in the relationship between migraine and childhood cancers.
Registration of ‘Georgia‐22MPR’ peanut
Authors: Branch W. D. , Brenneman T. B.
Published: April 2023

‘Georgia‐22MPR’ (Reg. no. CV‐153, PI 702544) is a new high‐yielding, high‐oleic medium‐large‐seeded, runner‐type peanut (Arachis hypogaea L. subsp. hypogaea var. hypogaea) cultivar resistant to Tomato spotted wilt virus (TSWV), root‐knot nematode [RKN; Meloidogyne arenaria (Neal) Chitwood], and potato leafhopper (Empoasca fabae Harris). It was released by the Georgia Agricultural Experiment Station in 2022. Georgia‐22MPR was developed at the University of Georgia, Tifton Campus. It originated from the cross ‘Georgia Greener’ × GA 082524. Georgia Greener is a normal‐oleic, TSWV‐resistant, runner‐type peanut cultivar. GA 082524 is a high‐oleic, RKN‐resistant, advanced Georgia breeding line. Pedigree selection was practiced within the early segregating generations. Performance testing began in the F4:6 generation with the advanced pure‐line selection, GA 163120. During the past 4 years (2018–2021) averaged over 27 multiple location tests without nematode pressure in Georgia, Georgia‐22MPR had significantly less TSWV and total disease incidence than ‘Georgia‐14N’. Georgia‐22MPR was also found to have a larger runner seed size as compared to the smaller runner‐type check cultivar, Georgia‐14N. Georgia‐22MPR combines high yield, TSWV resistance, leafhopper insect resistance, and RKN resistance with medium–large seed size and the high‐oleic trait for longer shelf‐life and improved oil quality of peanut and peanut products.
Total body fluid is the factor that affects the pharmacokinetics of tolvaptan, and its efficacy, in acute worsening heart failure patients
Authors: Kato Takahiro , Yasuda Yoko , Okamoto Hitomi , Saito Yuji , Nakano Yusuke , Matsuura Katsuhiko , Oonishi Masafumi , Amano Tetsuya
Published: April 2023

The optimal starting dose of tolvaptan to effectively improve fluid retention in patients with heart failure (HF) is unknown. This study explored the factors affecting the pharmacokinetics (PKs) and pharmacodynamics of tolvaptan in patients with decompensated HF. We prospectively enrolled patients who were slated to receive tolvaptan because of volume overload associated with chronic HF. Blood samples were collected to measure tolvaptan concentrations before and 4, 8, 12–15, 24, and 144 h after administration. Additionally, demographic parameters, coadministered drugs, and body fluid composition were evaluated. Multiple regression analysis to detect PK parameters for the prediction of body weight (BW) loss at day 7 after the initiation of tolvaptan treatment and PK analysis to explore the factors affecting the PKs of tolvaptan were performed. In total, 165 blood samples were obtained from 37 patients. The predictors of weight loss on day 7 were area under the curve (AUC0–∞) of tolvaptan. PK analysis of the data revealed a strong correlation between CL/F and Vd/F, but no correlation between CL/F and kel (r = .95 and .06, respectively). A significant correlation was observed between total body fluid and Vd/F, and this correlation remained statistically significant even after adjusting for BW (r = .49, p < .05). Fat was also significantly correlated with Vd/F before adjusting for BW, on the other the correlation disappeared after adjusting BW. The optimal dose of tolvaptan based on total body fluid levels in individual patients could result in the alleviation of fluid retention in patients with HF.
Three‐port transoral robotic thyroidectomy without axillary incision: A preliminary report on a case series from Vietnam
Authors: Ngo Duy Quoc , Van Pham Binh , Ngo Quy Xuan , Van Le Quang
Published: April 2023

Background

Transoral robotic thyroidectomy (TORT) is one of the newest approaches and draws attention because of its cosmetic excellence. Here, we present our preliminary data from the initial 5 consecutive patients to explore the feasibility of three‐port TORT without axillary incision.

Methods

From August 2022 to December 2022, we performed TORT using three ports via the da Vinci Xi system with three robotic arms.

Results

All 5 patients had cT1aN0M0 papillary thyroid carcinomas with a mean tumour size of 6 mm. All patients underwent lobectomy with ipsilateral central neck dissection. The mean surgical time was 170 ± 15,8 min; the average length of hospital stay is 4.2 days. The number of retrieved central lymph nodes was 4.2 ± 0.8. All patients were discharged uneventfully without complications and completely satisfied with the cosmetic results.

Conclusions

TORT is feasible and safe when performed on carefully selected patients by experienced surgeons.
Father and Toddler Language During Shared Book Reading with Text‐Based and Wordless Picture Books
Authors: Conica Mirela , Kelly Linda , Nixon Elizabeth , Quigley Jean
Published: April 2023

While the association between shared book reading (SBR) and child language development is well documented, there has been less focus on how book characteristics may differentially elicit parents' language input and hence differentially relate to children's language skills during this activity. Moreover, despite the positive and unique role that fathers have been shown to play for children's language, the father‐child SBR evidence base is small. Accordingly, the present study examined variation in father and child language quantity, quality, complexity, and function during SBR with text‐based and wordless picture books and explored associations between fathers' language and children's language during these episodes. Participants were 46 father‐child dyads (20 females). Fathers' mean age was 38.74 years (SD = 5.74), and children's mean age was 37.89 months (SD = 2.71). Findings indicate that fathers in the text‐book condition produced significantly greater language quality, extended the topic more, and produced more conversational utterances but described and labeled pictures less than fathers in the wordless picture book condition. Fathers' language during both SBR episodes showed differential links with child's language and may suggest that fathers were fine‐tuning their language in accordance with their child's language skills (effect sizes ranged from r = .45 to r = .78). It is possible that variation in book content may encourage different types of learning with distinct effects on different domains of child language. Should future research replicate such differential relations, findings may inform caretakers and early childhood interventions with the aim of promoting children's books tailored to specific language areas of interest.
Plant Leaf‐Inspired Separators with Hierarchical Structure and Exquisite Fluidic Channels for Dendrite‐Free Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: Yang Yanfei , Wang Wankai , Li Meisheng , Zhou Shouyong , Zhang Junping , Wang Aiqin
Published: April 2023

Lithium (Li) metal batteries are among the most promising devices for high energy storage applications but suffer from severe and irregular Li dendrite growth. Here, it is demonstrated that the issue can be well tackled by precisely designing the leaf‐like membrane with hierarchical structure and exquisite fluidic channels. As a proof of concept, plant leaf‐inspired membrane (PLIM) separators are prepared using natural attapulgite nanorods. The PLIM separators feature super‐electrolyte‐philicity, high thermal stability and high ion‐selectivity. Thus, the separators can guide uniform and directed Li growth on the Li anode. The Li//PLIM//Li cell with limited Li anode shows high Coulombic efficiency and cycling stability over 1500 h with small overpotential and interface impedance. The Li//PLIM//S battery exhibits high initial capacity (1352 mAh g−1), cycling stability (0.019% capacity decay per cycle at 1 C over 500 cycles), rate performance (673 mAh g−1 at 4 C), and high operating temperature (65 °C). The separators can also effectively improve reversibility and cycling stability of the Li/Li cell and Li//LFP battery with carbonate‐based electrolyte. As such, this work provides fresh insights into the design of bioinspired separators for dendrite‐free metal batteries.