bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pressure‐Induced Pre‐Lithiation Enables High‐Performing Si Anodes in All‐Solid‐State Batteries
Authors: Hu Weifei , Li Yuanyuan , Liu Jinping
Published: June 2024

A commentary on pressure‐induced pre‐lithiation towards Si anodes in all‐solid‐state Li‐ion batteries (ASSLIBs) using sulfide electrolytes (SEs) is presented. First, feasible pre‐lithiation technologies for Si anodes in SE‐based ASSLIBs especially the significant pressure‐induced pre‐lithiation strategies are briefly reviewed. Then, a recent achievement by Meng et al. in this field is elaborated in detail. Finally, the significance of Meng's work is discussed.
Closed‐Form Formulae for Variance and Volatility Swaps Under Stochastic Volatility With Stochastic Liquidity Risks
Authors: Lin Sha , He Xin‐Jiang
Published: June 2024

We construct a stochastic volatility model considering stochastic liquidity risks when valuing variance and volatility swaps with discrete sampling. We base our model on Heston stochastic volatility, which is adopted for the modeling of stock prices when the market is perfectly liquid. Stock dynamics are further revised by discounting their prices through the employment of mean reverting market liquidity. We convert the stock dynamics under the physical measure into the one under a risk‐neutral measure via measure transform, with which the analytical valuation of variance and volatility swaps is realized. By taking the limit of sampling frequency, we further consider how both swaps with continuous sampling can be priced. Numerical implementation is finally carried out, with which the capability of the constructed model in capturing the influence of the two common types of financial risks can be clear.
Geography and environment: New conversations, new communities
Authors: Parsons Laurie , Bickerstaff Karen , Darvill Christopher , Yu Le
Published: June 2024

In this Editorial, the Geo: Geography and Environment Editors reflect on the journal over the past year, highlighting some of the key papers published and ‘Geo Themes’ being developed: ‘Decolonising Climate Geography’; ‘Climate Change, AI and Sustainability’; ‘Geographies of Energy Futures’. The Editors renew the call for submissions on these topics and put out a new call for Special Section proposals on subjects around the environment, climate and sustainability.
Effect of alternative and complementary medicine on male infertility: An umbrella review
Authors: Fasanghari Maryam , Keramat Afsaneh , Tansaz Mojgan , Moini Ashraf , Chaman Reza
Published: June 2024

Background and Aims

There is increasing interest worldwide in using alternative and complementary approaches for treating male infertility. This interest has spawned a multitude of published systematic reviews and meta‐analyses. The aim of this Umbrella review was to consolidate the available evidence regarding the effect of complementary and alternative medicine on male infertility to inform clinical decision‐making processes.

Methods

A comprehensive search was conducted to identify systematic reviews and meta‐analyses pertaining to the effects of complementary and alternative medicine on male infertility. This search encompassed various databases including MEDLINE, CINAHL, PubMed, Scopus, Proquest, Google Scholar, SID, EMBASE, Magiran, Cochrane Library, Iranmedex, ScienceDirect, SAGE. Subsequently, two researchers independently extracted the data from the selected meta‐analyses and systematic reviews, and evaluated their methodological quality using the assessment of multiple systematic reviews 2 (AMSTAR2).

Results

This analysis encompassed 11 studies, with four originating from Iran, two from Korea and five from China. The results regarding the effectiveness of complementary and alternative medicine are controversial, indicating a need for further research. The methodological quality of the systematic reviews and meta‐analyses appraised by AMSTAR 2 was rated as low or critically low. This assessment is attributed to inadequate examination of publication biases in the reviews and a lack of discussion regarding the effect of risk of bias.

Conclusion

The existing evidence regarding the effectiveness of alternative and complementary medicine in addressing male infertility is limited. Furthermore, the overall methodological quality of the published systematic reviews and meta‐analyses may have been underestimated as the use of AMSTAR2 appears to be a more precise appraisal instrument compared to its predecessor.
A nurse driven care management program to engage older diabetes patients in personalized goal setting and disease management
Authors: Zhu Mengqi , Cui Michael , Nathan Aviva G. , Press Valerie G. , Wan Wen , Miles Cristy , Ali Rabia , Pusinelli Mariko , Huisingh‐Scheetz Megan , Huang Elbert S.
Published: June 2024

Background and Aims

Multiple diabetes care guidelines have called for the personalization of risk factor goals, medication management, and self‐care plans among older patients. Study of the implementation of these recommendations is needed. This study aimed to test whether a patient survey embedded in the Electronic Healthcare Record (EHR), coupled with telephonic nurse care management, could engage patients in personalized goal setting and chronic disease management.

Methods

We conducted a single‐center equal‐randomization delayed comparator trial at the primary care clinics of the University of Chicago Medicine from 2018.6 to 2019.12. Patients over the age of 65 years with type 2 diabetes with an active patient portal account were recruited and randomized to receive an EHR embedded goal setting and preference survey immediately in the intervention arm or after 6 months in the delayed intervention control arm. In the intervention arm, nurses reviewed American Diabetes Association recommendations for A1C goals based on health status class, established personalized goals, and provided monthly telephonic care management phone calls for a maximum of 6 months. Our primary outcome was the documentation of a personalized A1C goal in the EHR.

Results

A total of 100 patients completed the trial (mean age, 72.51 [SD, 5.22] years; mean baseline A1C, 7.14% [SD, 1.06%]; 68% women). The majority were in the Healthy (59%) followed by Complex (30%) and Very Complex (11%) health status classes. Documentation of an A1C goal in the EHR increased from 42% to 90% (p < 0.001) at 6 months in the intervention group and from 54% to 56% in the control group. Across health status classes, patients set similar A1C goals.

Conclusions

Older patients can be engaged in personalized goal setting and disease management through an embedded EHR intervention. The clinical impact of the intervention may differ if deployed among older patients with more complex health needs and higher glucose levels.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03692208.
Building literacy connections after disaster: Teacher candidates engaging with community through a service‐learning lens
Authors: Hulan Nancy Franklin , Bailey‐Tarbett Leslee K.
Published: June 2024

This study examines the experiences of 17 teacher candidates who participated in a literacy‐focused service‐learning initiative in the aftermath of destructive tornadoes in their community. In response to the natural disaster, the Literacy Ambassadors, composed of university literacy faculty and teacher candidates, sought to address the critical need for book access among area students impacted by the tornadoes. Over the course of 8 months, researchers collected initial questionnaires, participant reflections, meeting transcripts, and anecdotal notes as the group met to learn about book matching, text complexity, and to acquire, sort, and curate book bags for individual preK‐12 students. Books were shared with community members on three occasions—two occurred 12 months after the tornadoes and served eight schools; another occurred 16 months after the event and served one school. Participants revealed themes of shifting identity, a developing understanding of the complexity of literacy, and the relational power of literacy—offering valuable insights into the impact of community engagement on teacher candidates in response to disaster. These findings support previous research that emphasizes the potential of service‐learning as real‐life experiences that address community needs while simultaneously enriching the professional growth of future educators.
The seeds of change: Antecedent variables and their impact in building grit and resilience through outdoor adventure education
Authors: Davidson Curt , Foster Stephen
Published: June 2024

Introduction

This study examines the impact of Outdoor Adventure Education (OAE) on developing grit and resilience in adolescents. Focusing on a United States‐based sample collected in 2015, it explores how antecedent variables such as age and gender influence these outcomes, integrating the PERMA model of well‐being to investigate underlying mechanisms.

Methods

The research employed a cross‐sectional design with 350 participants aged 14–18 from various OAE courses. Data collection involved pre/post surveys assessing grit and resilience as experiences through mastery, relatedness, and emotional reactivity. The study utilized established inventories for grit and the Resilience Scales for Children and Adolescents.

Results

Findings revealed significant grit, mastery, and relatedness increases following the OAE program. Participants demonstrated enhanced perseverance and passion toward goals, increased sense of mastery, and better relational dynamics. However, emotional reactivity scores remained largely unchanged. Notably, the impact of these programs varied based on participants' gender and socioeconomic status, indicating differential effects across demographic groups.

Conclusions

The study suggests that OAE programs effectively foster grit and resilience in adolescents, with varying impacts based on demographic factors. It highlights the necessity for inclusive and adaptive program designs that cater to diverse participant needs. The results contribute valuable insights to the field of youth development, emphasizing the role of OAE in enhancing key psychological traits essential for adolescents' growth and adaptation.
Effects of nanomodified titanium surfaces considering bacterial colonization and viability of osteoblasts and fibroblasts
Authors: Astasov‐Frauenhoffer Monika , Marot Laurent , Sanchez Fabien , Steiner Roland , Lohberger Birgit , Bornstein Michael M. , Wagner Raphael S. , Kühl Sebastian , Mukaddam Khaled
Published: June 2024

This study investigates nanostructured titanium surfaces (Ti2 spikes) that promote the viability of osteoblasts and fibroblasts and prevent bacterial colonisation. Helium ion irradiation was adopted to produce nanometric‐sized cones on titanium. Human osteoblasts (hFOB) and human gingiva fibroblasts (hGF) were used for analysis. A viability and a cytotoxicity assay were conducted to evaluate the lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activity and assess cell damage in Ti2 spikes compared to titanium discs with a sandblasted and acid‐etched (Ti2 SLA) surface. The antibacterial activity was investigated against Escherichia coli, Streptococcus mutans, Fusobacterium nucleatum, and Porphyromonas gingivalis. In the course of the cultivation, both hGF and hFOB demonstrated significantly reduced viability on the Ti2 spikes surface. hGF cells exhibited a slight but significant increase in LDH release. In contrast, hFOB showed reduced cytotoxicity on this surface. On the Ti2 spikes surface, hGF cells exhibited a significant reduction in gene expression of VCL, Src‐1, and ITGα5. However, the integrin subunits ITGα1 and ITGα3 showed upregulation on the Ti2 spikes surface. The Ti2 spikes surface significantly increased the expression of almost all osteogenic markers. The results of conventional culturing demonstrated a statistically significant decrease in the number of viable cells for S. mutans, F. nucleaum, and greater quantities of P. gingivalis on Ti2 spikes surface compared to control. However, no such reduction was detected for E. coli. The long‐term success of implants relies on establishing and maintaining hard and soft peri‐implant tissues. Ti2 spikes represent a novel and promising approach to enhance osseointegration and optimize biocompatibility.
Predictors of outcome in self‐guided internet‐delivered cognitive‐behavior therapy for obsessive‐compulsive disorder: A preliminary investigation
Authors: Wootton Bethany M. , McDonald Sarah , Karin Eyal , Titov Nickolai , Dear Blake F.
Published: June 2024

Internet‐delivered cognitive‐behavioral therapy (ICBT) is an effective treatment for obsessive‐compulsive disorder (OCD). ICBT can be delivered in a self‐guided or clinician‐guided format. While a literature is emerging on the predictors of response to clinician‐guided ICBT, there is a lack of research examining the predictors of response to self‐guided ICBT. The aim of the present study was to examine predictors of outcome in a large sample of participants with OCD who commenced a self‐guided ICBT intervention. One hundred and fifty‐seven participants (Mage = 34.82; SD = 10.49; 78% female) were included in the study. Regression analyses were conducted to determine clinical and demographic predictors of (1) posttreatment symptom severity and (2) a clinically meaningful treatment response for both the intention‐to‐treat (ITT) and completer samples. The regression models significantly predicted posttreatment outcome for both the ITT (F(8, 148) = 15.844, p < .001) and completer sample (F(8, 101) = 5.929, p < .001), explaining 46% and 34% of the variance respectively. Higher baseline OCD severity, younger age, experiencing higher contamination or symmetry symptoms, and a history of past treatment were all found to be significantly associated with higher posttreatment severity in the ITT sample. In the completer sample only higher baseline OCD severity and severity of harm‐related obsessions and checking compulsions was significantly associated with higher posttreatment severity. When predicting treatment response the regression models for both the ITT and completer sample were nonsignificant.
Time tracking and comparison of genetic counseling tasks in inpatient and outpatient settings
Authors: Osborne Alexandra , Bland Emily Magness , Diamonstein Callie , Fishler Kristen
Published: June 2024

Genetic counselors (GCs) practice in critical care settings. Some GCs have full‐time inpatient roles, while most GCs who see inpatients do so as needed or on a rotating schedule in addition to seeing patients in an outpatient setting. Few studies have tracked and compared the amount of time it takes GCs to perform tasks in the inpatient and outpatient settings. Genetic counselors were invited to participate in this study via the National Society of Genetic Counselors research listserv. Participants completed an online survey asking how their role is structured and what types of support are available to them while seeing inpatients. They also performed time tracking for 16 tasks known to be associated with inpatient and/or outpatient care via RedCap. These tasks include direct patient care, care coordination, and other tasks which encapsulate a new patient encounter from beginning to end. Forty‐two inpatient encounters and 26 outpatient encounters were analyzed. The total average time spent on an inpatient consult (3 h and 38.5 min) was significantly higher than the time spent on an outpatient consult (2 h and 24.7 min; p < 0.05). Individually, genetic counselors spent significantly more time on the following tasks in an inpatient setting: direct follow‐up encounters, multidisciplinary team communication, results disclosure encounters, results disclosure documentation, traveling, and waiting. Follow‐up encounters, traveling, and waiting happen almost exclusively in inpatient settings. Short answer prompts regarding structure of GC role and available support revealed themes including lack of inpatient role structure, challenges with balancing between inpatient and outpatient tasks, and varied institutional support. These results promote further discussion about how to support GCs who see inpatients as these roles expand. Some suggestions include increased FTE/protected time and/or GCA support specific to the inpatient role.
Attainable bounds for algebraic connectivity and maximally connected regular graphs
Authors: Exoo Geoffrey , Kolokolnikov Theodore , Janssen Jeanette , Salamon Timothy
Published: June 2024

We derive attainable upper bounds on the algebraic connectivity (spectral gap) of a regular graph in terms of its diameter and girth. This bound agrees with the well‐known Alon–Boppana–Friedman bound for graphs of even diameter, but is an improvement for graphs of odd diameter. For the girth bound, we show that only Moore graphs can attain it, and these only exist for well‐known special cases. For the diameter bound, we use a combination of stochastic algorithms and exhaustive search to find graphs which attain it. For 3‐regular graphs, we find attainable graphs for all diameters up to and including (the case of is open). These graphs are extremely rare and also have high girth; for example, we found exactly 45 distinct cubic graphs on 44 vertices attaining the upper bound when ; all have girth 8. We also exhibit several infinite families attaining the upper bound with respect to diameter or girth. In particular, when is a power of prime, we construct a ‐regular graph having diameter 4 and girth 6 which attains the upper bound with respect to diameter.
Purification, Characterization, and Assessment of Anticancer Activity of Iron Oxide Nanoparticles Biosynthesized by Novel Thermophilic Bacillus tequilensis ASFS1‏
Authors: Satarzadeh Naghmeh , Shakibaie Mojtaba , Forootanfar Hamid , Amirheidari Bagher
Published: June 2024

Magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs), particularly iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs), are a fascinating group of nanoparticles that have been considerably investigated for biomedical applications because of their superparamagnetic properties, biodegradable nature, and biocompatibility. A novel Gram‐positive moderately thermophilic bacterial strain, namely Bacillus tequilensis ASFS.1, was isolated and identified. This strain is capable of producing superparamagnetic Fe3O4 nanoparticles and exhibiting magnetotaxis behavior. This strain swimming behavior was investigated under static and dynamic environments, where it behaved very much similar to the magnetotaxis in magnetotactic bacteria. This study is the first report of a bacterium from the Bacillaceae family that has the potential to intracellular biosynthesis of IONPs. MNPs were separated by a magnetic and reproducible method which was designed for the first time for this study. In addition, UV‐visible spectrophotometer, Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, vibrating sample magnetometer, field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), X‐ray diffraction, and thermal gravimetric analysis were utilized to characterize the bio‐fabricated magnetite nanoparticles. Analysis of the particle size distribution pattern of the biogenic MNPs by FESEM imaging revealed the size range of 10–100 nm with the size range of 10–40 nm MNPs being the most frequent particles. VSM analysis demonstrated that biogenic MNPs displayed superparamagnetic properties with a high saturation magnetization value of 184 emu/g. After 24 h treatment of 3T3, U87, A549, MCF‐7, and HT‐29 cell lines with the biogenic MNPs, IC50 values were measured to be 339, 641, 582, 149, and 184 μg mL−1, respectively. This study presents the novel strain ASFS.1 capable of magnetotaxis by the aid of its magnetite nanoparticles and paving information on isolation, characterization, and in vitro cytotoxicity of its MNPs. The MNPs showed promising potential for biomedical applications, obviously subject to additional studies.
Growth patterns in infants born to women with pregestational overweight/obesity supplemented with docosahexaenoic acid during pregnancy
Authors: De Toro Valeria , Alberti Gigliola , Dominguez Angelica , Carrasco‐Negüe Karina , Ferrer Pedro , Valenzuela Rodrigo , Garmendia Maria Luisa , Casanello Paola
Published: June 2024

Background

Previous studies of maternal docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) supplementation during pregnancy have controversial and contrasting results on the short and long‐term effects on early child growth. The impact of this nutritional intervention on the postnatal growth patterns in the offspring of women with pregestational overweight/obesity (PGO) also remains controversial.

Objective

To analyze the postnatal growth patterns during the first 4 months of life in the offspring of women with PGO randomly supplemented with 800 mg/day (PGO‐800) compared with normative doses of 200 mg/day (PGO‐200) of DHA during pregnancy (<15 weeks of gestation until delivery).

Methods

This study evaluated the growth patterns during the first 4 months of life of 169 infants of the women that participated in the MIGHT study (NCT02574767). We included the infants of women from the PGO‐200 (n = 81) and PGO‐800 group (n = 88). The growth patterns (weight, length, and head circumference) and change in z‐score (World health Organization charts) were evaluated.

Results

Throughout the first 4 months of life, the infants of the PGO‐800 group had lower weight‐for‐length z‐score (coef. −0.65, 95% confidence interval [CI] −1.07, −0.22, p = 0.003) and lower body mass index‐for‐age z‐score (coef. −0.56, 95% CI −0.99, −0.12, p = 0.012) compared with the PGO‐200 group adjusted by maternal body mass index, gestational weight gain, gestational age, insulin in cord blood and infant feeding (exclusive breastfed, not breastfed, and partially breastfed).

Conclusions

Maternal supplementation with DHA during pregnancy could beneficially limit the offspring's postnatal weight gain during the first 4 months of life.
Combining multivariate statistical analysis to characterize changes in amino acids and volatiles during growth of Lou onion pseudostems
Authors: Hou Xiaojian , Wang Jianglong , Zhang Guangdi , Wang Yu , Wang Ting
Published: June 2024

BACKGROUND

The main edible part of the Lou onion is the pseudostem, which is highly valued for its distinctive flavour. However, harvesting decisions for the pseudostem are often based on size and market price, with little consideration given to flavour. By clarifying the growth of flavour in pseudostems, farmers and consumers may benefit from evidence‐based insights that help optimize harvesting time and maximize flavour quality.

RESULTS

This study employed amino acid analysis and gas chromatography–ion migration spectroscopy (GC–IMS) to elucidate the compounds of the pseudostem across different growth phases, and 17 amino acids and 61 volatile substances. Subsequently, analysis revealed that 18 compounds, including arginine (Arg), aspartic acid (Asp), glutamic acid (Glu), valine (Val), (E)‐2‐nonenal, decanal, 2,4‐nonadienal, 2‐octenal, (Z)‐4‐decenal, 2,4‐decadienal benzeneacetaldehyde, linalool, eugenol, (Z)‐6‐nonen‐1‐ol, methyl anthranilate, 2‐acetylpyridine, 3‐sec‐butyl‐2‐methoxypyrazine, and 2,6‐dichlorophenol, were the key compounds in determining the flavour characteristics of the pseudostems, as assessed by taste activity value and relative odour activity value calculations. In addition, correlation analysis, focusing on five amino acids and 38 volatile compounds with variable importance for predictive components scores of >1, identified anisaldehyde, eugenol, (Z)‐6‐nonen‐1‐ol, 2,4‐decadienal, 3‐sec‐butyl‐2‐methoxypyrazine, Arg, Asp, and Val as the key differentiators and contributors to the pseudostems flavour profile.

CONCLUSION

During the rapid growth of Lou onions just before the emergence of flower stems, the pseudostem exhibited the most prominent flavour, making this stage most suitable for harvesting compared to the regreening growth stage and the rapid growth period of the aerial bulbs. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Isolation of a surfactin‐producing strain of Bacillus subtilis and evaluation of the probiotic potential and antioxidant activity of surfactin from fermented soybean meal
Authors: Dai Chunhua , Shu Zhenzhen , Ma Chunfang , Yan Pengfei , Huang Liurong , He Ronghai , Ma Haile
Published: June 2024

BACKGROUND

Surfactin, usually produced by microbial metabolism, has many advantages including low toxicity, high biodegradability, and stability at extreme pH levels and temperatures, making it suitable for industry. However, its commercial production has not yet been achieved.

RESULTS

A strain with a strong surfactin‐producing ability was isolated and identified as Bacillus subtilis SOPC5, based on the appearance of colonies, microscopic observation, and 16S rDNA sequencing. The isolate exhibited significant tolerance to acid, bile, gastric, and intestinal juices, and was sufficiently susceptible to antibiotics. Bacillus subtilis SOPC5 showed high levels of auto‐aggregation and surface hydrophobicity, and a strong capacity to secrete protease, amylase, and cellulase. The strain also exhibited antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus 10 306 with a antibacterial circle diameter of 18.0 ± 1.1 mm. The maximal yield of surfactin (1.32 mg mL−1) was obtained by fermenting soybean meal (SBM) using the isolate under the following conditions: SBM 86 g L−1, inoculation 1.5 × 107 CFU mL−1, FeSO4 1.2 mg L−1, MnSO4 2.6 mg L−1, MgSO4 0.5 mg mL−1, L‐Glu 4 mg L−1, temperature 33 °C, duration 120 h, and shaking at 210 rpm. The purity of surfactin was 97.42% as measured by high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The half inhibitory concentration (IC50) values for surfactin to scavenge 1,1‐diphenyl‐2‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2‐azino‐bis‐(3‐ethylbenzothiazoline‐6‐sulfonic acid) radical cation (ABTS·+) were 1.275 ± 0.11 and 0.73 ± 0.08 mg mL−1, respectively.

CONCLUSION

This study provides a scientific basis for the application of B. subtilis SOPC5 (as a potential probiotic) and the preparation of its metabolic product (surfactin). © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Evaluation of a Novel Dermal Cooling System for the Treatment of Benign Pigmented Lesions in Asians
Authors: Wong Christina S. M. , Chan Mandy W. M. , Shek Samantha Y. N. , Yeung Chi Keung , Chan Henry H. L.
Published: June 2024

Objective

Our study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of this novel dermal cooling system (DCS) in reducing pigmentation in benign pigmented lesions in Asian patients and its potential side effects.

Methods

It was a prospective open‐label single‐center study. Asian patients, with the presence of benign pigmented lesions mainly including lentigines, melasma, nevus spilus, ephelides, café au lait, and seborrheic keratosis were recruited for a novel DCS. The DCS provided localized cooling of the epidermal layer below freezing but was less intense than cryotherapy. Each patient received DCS at Week 0 and repeated at 4‐week intervals up to 10 sessions. Global aesthetic improvement scores (GAIS) by blinded physicians and subjects were recorded at 2, 6, and 12 months posttreatment follow‐up.

Results

Eighty‐one patients were recruited with a total of 305 sessions performed and 1716 lesion sites treated. At 2‐month posttreatment, 76.5% and 58.6% treatment sites showed obvious to marked improvement respectively and the improvement sustained at 6 and 12 months. Only minor adverse events were reported. Erythema and edema were the most commonly anticipated effects immediately after treatment. The pain was minimal. Postinflammatory hyperpigmentation was only reported in 2.2% (38/1716) treated sites.

Conclusion

To our knowledge, this study was the first study to demonstrate that this novel DCS was an effective, safe, and well‐tolerated treatment for benign pigmented lesions in Asians.
Presents with presence: The role of memory and essence in heirloom gift appreciation
Authors: Tezer Ali , Philp Matthew , Pancer Ethan , Zhu Queenie
Published: June 2024

Choosing the right gift is a common challenge. Despite recent research suggesting that sentimental gifts are most appreciated, it remains unclear of the underlying value of such gifts. The current research examines sentimental gifts in the context of heirlooms and demonstrates that the value of such sentimental gifts comes from their memory value (being a reminder of loved ones) and essence value (being a receptacle of their spiritual presence). These findings emphasize the importance of prior physical contact with an item on the appreciation of heirloom gifts and demonstrates how ordinary store‐bought gifts can benefit from increased appreciation when framed as future heirlooms (being gifted with the intention to be 1 day gifted to future generations). Three experiments find support for these predictions. This research contributes to the understanding of gifting by exploring the mechanisms underlying heirloom gift appreciation and offers guidance to those looking to give gifts that will be well received.
A Water Polysaccharide–Protein Complex from Grifola frondosa Inhibit the Growth of Subcutaneous but Not Peritoneal Colon Tumor under Fasting Condition
Authors: Xu Yongzhao , Huang Chujun , Xu Tianxiong , Xiang Xiong , Amakye William Kwame , Zhao Zikuan , Yao Maojin , Zhu Ying , Ren Jiaoyan
Published: June 2024

Scope

Grifola frondosa has been shown to induce immune modulatory, modulate autophagy, and apoptosis in cancer cells. However, little is known about its potential for managing tumor progression as an adjunct to nutrient restriction.

Methods and results

Water extract produces a G. frondosa polysaccharide–protein complex (G. frondosa PPC) of average molecular weight of 46.48 kDa, with glucose (54.8%) as the main constituent. Under serum‐restricted conditions, G. frondosa PPC can significantly inhibit MC38 colorectal tumor cell migration in vitro. Under alternate‐day fasting condition, G. frondosa PPC can only significantly inhibit the growth of subcutaneous (s.c.) tumor, but is feeble in halting its spread in the intraperitoneal (i.p.) cavity in tumor‐bearing mice. Histopathological examination and Raman imaging show a significant increase in lipid content in the tumor microenvironment (TME) tissue of the s.c. tumor‐bearing mice. G. frondosa PPC significantly increases C17:0 and C24:0 saturated fatty acids and significantly decreases C16:1 and C18:1 monounsaturated fatty acids in the TME of s.c. tumor‐bearing mice compared with the i.p. cavity model.

Conclusion

G. frondosa PPC significantly inhibits tumor growth in s.c. tumor‐bearing mice under intermittent fasting conditions by altering the fatty acid composition of the TME.
Registered nurses' experiences on job satisfaction in nursing home settings
Authors: Jakobsson Larsson Birgitta , Mannberg Marie , Pöder Ulrika , Hedström Mariann , Karlsson Ann‐Christin
Published: June 2024

Aim

To describe what registered nurses' experience to be important to job satisfaction in nursing home settings.

Design

This is a qualitative study based on data from individual interviews.

Methods

Sixteen registered nurses working in nursing homes were interviewed, and their responses were analysed with systematic text condensation.

Results

A total of six categories were developed to describe various aspects of job satisfaction among registered nurses at nursing homes: meaningfulness is essential, to possess control and manageability is central, a possibility to balance daily challenges with professional development, supportive leadership is imperative, the nursing team's competence and companionship, and being confident in one's own profession.

Conclusion

In the present study, meaningfulness was essential to job satisfaction, and work was experienced to be meaningful and engaging when the demands were manageable, the workload controllable, and when the registered nurses felt supported by management and co‐workers. Conversely, if the demands were too high, the workload was beyond their control and the nurses felt unsupported, then the work felt meaningless and thus unsatisfactory.
The effect of computation interventions for students with autism spectrum disorder: A meta‐analysis and systematic review
Authors: Liu Di , Mao Yiwen , Lory Catharine , Lei Qingli , Zeng Yingying
Published: June 2024

Computation is foundational to learning many mathematics concepts, as well as a functional skill in everyday life. Yet students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often have challenges in learning computation skills. The current study aimed to provide quantitative and descriptive analyses of single‐case experimental studies on computation interventions for students with ASD. Our systematic search and screening procedures yielded a total of 16 eligible studies for the final analyses. An analysis of publication bias indicated an absence of publication bias in the included studies. Tau‐U was used to calculate the overall intervention effect, resulting in an omnibus effect of 0.90 (95% CI [0.81, 1.00]), indicating a medium effect. Moderator analyses showed that variables such as study design, participant characteristics, intervention characteristics, and target skills did not moderate intervention effects. However, some evidence‐based practices were identified to significantly moderate maintenance effects. Implications for researchers and practitioners are discussed.
Investigation of thermal damage in explosive bridgewire detonators via discrete element method simulations
Authors: Wolf Ki T. , Clemmer Joel T. , Hobbs Michael L. , Kaneshige Michael , Bolintineanu Dan S. , Brown Judith A.
Published: June 2024

Exploding bridgewire (EBW) detonators are used to rapidly and reliably initiate energetic reactions by exploding a bridgewire via Joule heating. While the mechanisms of EBW detonators have been studied extensively in nominal conditions, comparatively few studies have addressed thermally damaged detonator operability. We present a mesoscale simulation study of thermal damage in a representative EBW detonator, using discrete element method (DEM) simulations that explicitly account for individual particles in the pressed explosive powder. We use a simplified model of melting, where solid spherical particles undergo uniform shrinking, and fluid dynamics are ignored. The subsequent settling of particles results in the formation of a gap between the solid powder and the bridgewire, which we study under different conditions. In particular, particle cohesion has a significant effect on gap formation and settling behavior, where sufficiently high cohesion leads to coalescence of particles into a free‐standing pellet. This behavior is qualitatively compared to experimental visualization data, and simulations are shown to capture several key changes in pellet shape. We derive a minimum and maximum limit on gap formation during melting using simple geometric arguments. In the absence of cohesion, results agree with the maximum gap size. With increasing cohesion, the gap size decreases, eventually saturating at the minimum limit. We present results for different combinations of interparticle cohesion and detonator orientations with respect to gravity, demonstrating the complex behavior of these systems and the potential for DEM simulations to capture a range of scenarios.
Effect of the Twist Crystallinity of N‐Polar AlN Underlayer on the Electrical Properties of GaN/AlN Structures
Authors: Kowaki Taketo , Hanasaku Koki , Miyamoto Minagi , Zazuli Aina Hiyama , Inahara Daisuke , Fujii Kai , Kimoto Taisei , Ninoki Ryosuke , Kurai Satoshi , Okada Narihito , Yamada Yoichi
Published: June 2024

Recently, N‐polar GaN/AlGaN/AlN high‐electron‐mobility transistors (HEMTs) have been demonstrated using molecular beam epitaxy (MBE). However, the MBE method is not suitable for mass production because of the need for ultrahigh vacuum, small chamber size, and long deposition time. This study fabricates N‐polar GaN‐ or AlGaN‐channel HEMTs on AlN with polarization directions opposite to those of Ga‐polar GaN‐based HEMTs without any cap layer and demonstrates field‐effect transistor static characteristics. In this article, the focus is on the crystal quality of the underlying layer and the effect of crystalline quality on electrical properties is investigated. The crystalline quality of the twist component of the N‐polar AlN layer is improved by combining the Al‐polar tiny‐pit layer and polarity inversion from Al‐ to N‐polar. Finally, it is shown that the crystalline quality of the twist component is a crucial factor for improving the electron mobility of the N‐polar GaN channel and simultaneously increasing IDS.
Zosterabisphenone B, a new diarylheptanoid heterodimer from the seagrass Zostera marina, induces apoptosis cell death in colon cancer cells and reduces tumour growth in mice
Authors: Cacciola Nunzio Antonio , De Cicco Paola , Amico Rebecca , Sepe Fabrizia , Li Yan , Grauso Laura , Nanì Maria Francesca , Scarpato Silvia , Zidorn Christian , Mangoni Alfonso , Borrelli Francesca
Published: June 2024

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common malignant tumours worldwide. Diarylheptanoids, secondary metabolites isolated from Zostera marina, are of interest in natural products research due to their biological activities. Zosterabisphenone B (ZBP B) has recently been shown to inhibit the viability of CRC cells. The aim of this study was to investigate the therapeutic potential of ZBP B for targeting human CRC cells. Cell viability was determined using the MTT assay. Flow cytometry and Western blot analyses were used to assess apoptosis and autophagy. A CRC xenograft model was used to evaluate the in vivo effect of ZBP B. No cytotoxic effect on HCEC cells was observed in the in vitro experiments. ZBP B caused morphological changes in HCT116 colon cancer cells due to an increase in early and late apoptotic cell populations. Mechanistically, ZBP B led to an increase in cleaved caspase‐3, caspase‐8, caspase‐9, PARP and BID proteins and a decrease in Bcl‐2 and c‐Myc proteins. In the xenograft model of CRC, ZBP B led to a reduction in tumour growth. These results indicate that ZBP B exerts a selective cytotoxic effect on CRC cells by affecting apoptotic signalling pathways and reducing tumour growth in mice. Taken together, our results suggest that ZBP B could be a lead compound for the synthesis and development of CRC drugs.
A Study Into the Hot Tack and Cooled Seal Performance of Emerging Coated Papers for Primary Flexible Food Packaging
Authors: Bamps Bram , Samyn Pieter , Rosenow Phil , Stobinska Magdalena , Kamola Paulina , Tarnowiecka‐Kuca Alicja , Peeters Roos
Published: June 2024

In response to the need to employ recyclable materials for food packaging, the resurgence of paper as a primary flexible packaging material is driven by consumer trust in paper and its renewable wood fibre composition, strengthened by a well‐established recycling infrastructure. A diverse range of coated papers and coatings has become accessible in the market, specifically tailored for applications in horizontal and vertical form‐fill sealing. Within the framework of the CORNET‐TETRA project HBC.2021.0288 REPAC2, a careful selection of 16 food‐grade coated papers and/or coatings, slated for introduction to the market either presently or within the next 2 years, has been undertaken. This study focused on evaluating the processing window for superior hot tack and cooled seal performance of coated papers, in relation with the composition of paper coatings as identified using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) measurements, and their thermal softening or melting characteristics as identified through differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Thermal behaviour in DSC thermograms is used to categorize the commercial coated papers into distinct classes. Class I papers, mainly with acrylic‐based coatings, exhibit high hot tack strengths (0.2–0.7 N/mm) and a glass transition temperature (Tg) close to the seal initiation temperature but do not considerably gain strength with further cooling. Class II papers are thermally inert in DSC with minimal thermoplastics, leading to weak seals. In contrast, classes III and IV, including wax‐based and polyolefin‐based or polyvinylalcohol‐based (PVOH) coatings, respectively, show low initial hot tack strengths that considerably increase upon adequate cooling. Particularly, the Class IV papers with polyolefin‐based coatings have well‐performing seals. Despite having relatively low hot tack strengths after cool times of 0.1 s, below 0.3 N/mm, high strengths can be obtained after adequate cooling with outliers reaching 0.74 and 1.14 N/mm. Additionally, the influences of seal parameters on seal performance were evaluated. The study reveals that cool time, seal pressure and, to a lesser extent, seal time significantly impact hot tack strength, consistent with prior research. The critical role of jaw temperature in heat conductive sealing is affirmed, as it dictates the efficacy of other seal parameters. Seal initiation occurs at 75°C for four papers, and nine others necessitate temperatures equal to or exceeding 100°C, with one paper only displaying seal initiation at 195°C. This variation highlights the requisite for tailored temperature windows for effective sealing of these papers. As such, deeper insights into the intricate interplay between coating composition, thermal properties and seal performance are obtained in order to support advances in sustainable packaging technology.
Exploring charge transfer effects on linear, non‐linear optical, and dye‐sensitized solar cell properties: A DFT and TD‐DFT investigation of carbazole and aniline‐based dyes
Authors: Sharma Suryapratap J. , Sekar Nagaiyan
Published: June 2024

The efficacy of aniline and carbazole‐based sensitizers used in dye‐sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) is correlated with the trends in density functional theory (DFT) based charge transfer (CT) and non‐linear optical (NLO) properties since both DSSC and NLO properties highly rely on CT properties. The aniline‐based donors showed a higher degree of planarity over carbazole‐based donor sensitizers. This improved planarity in aniline‐based sensitizers is attributed to efficient charge transfer and higher dipole moment. The efficient CT within the sensitizers is confirmed with bond‐length alternation (BLA), bond order alternation (BOA), and quinoid character (QC). A direct correlation of band‐gap (EG) with μ, ω, η, and Γ is witnessed. Time‐dependent DFT (TD‐DFT) results of vertical excitation demonstrated similar trends that are observed practically. Indeed, we observed a direct correlation between α and β and the experimentally observed DSSC efficiency. DFT and TD‐DFT methods, linear, employed for computing the CT and linear and DSSC properties as implemented in Gaussian 09. NLO properties were simulated through single‐point polar calculations. B3LYP and PBE1PBE functionals were used for geometry optimization. The linear and NLO properties were determined in various functionals, that is, global hybrid and range‐separated hybrid functionals. A polarizable continuum model (PCM) was used for solvation studies. To understand the realistic picture of the dye@TiO2 cluster, dye bound on TiO2 clusters were optimized using a LANL2DZ basis set specifically for the Ti atom.
Analysis of mutation‐originated gain‐of‐glycosylation using mass spectrometry‐based N‐glycoproteomics
Authors: Yang Hailun , Tian Zhixin
Published: June 2024

Rationale

A general N‐glycoproteomics analysis pipeline has been established for characterization of mutation‐related gain‐of‐glycosylation (GoG) at intact N‐glycopeptide molecular level, generating comprehensive site and structure information of N‐glycosylation.

Methods

This study focused on mutation‐originated GoG using a mass spectrometry‐based N‐glycoproteomics analysis workflow. In brief, GoG intact N‐glycopeptide databases were built, consisting of 2701 proteins (potential GoG N‐glycosites and amino acids derived from MUTAGEN, VARIANT and VAR_SEQ in UniProt) and 6709 human N‐glycans (≤50 sequence isomers per monosaccharide composition). We employed the site‐ and structure‐specific N‐glycoproteomics workflow utilizing intact N‐glycopeptides search engine GPSeeker to identify GoG intact N‐glycopeptides from parental breast cancer stem cells (MCF‐7 CSCs) and adriamycin‐resistant breast cancer stem cells (MCF‐7/ADR CSCs).

Results

With the criteria of spectrum‐level false discovery rate control of ≤1%, we identified 87 and 94 GoG intact N‐glycopeptides corresponding to 37 and 35 intact N‐glycoproteins from MCF‐7 CSCs and MCF‐7/ADR CSCs, respectively. Micro‐heterogeneity and macro‐heterogeneity of N‐glycosylation from GoG intact N‐glycoproteins with VAR_SEQ and VARIANT were found in both MCF‐7 CSCs and MCF‐7/ADR CSCs systems.

Conclusions

The integration of site‐ and structure‐specific N‐glycoproteomics approach, conjugating with GoG characterization, provides a universal workflow for revealing comprehensive N‐glycosite and N‐glycan structure information of GoG. The analysis of mutation‐originated GoG can be extended to GoG characterization of other N‐glycoproteome systems including complex clinical tissues and body fluids.
Efficient state change detection method for modeling stateful time series data
Authors: Liu Xianmin , Luo Ruixin , Li Wenbo , Bi Qiang
Published: June 2024

Time series analysis is an important research area and has wide real applications. Time series modeling has been identified and well known as the key fundamental problem in time series analysis, and it has received lots of research attentions. The hardness of achieving sophisticated and efficient time series models depends on the characteristic of the data met. In practical, time series data are usually generated by the physical process with several working states, which are determined by the system design. In such cases, the data characteristics of each state is quite different from the other states, where the modeling problem becomes much harder and it is more challenging to design modeling methods for stateful time series data. Therefore, this paper focuses on the stateful time series data, and studies the state change detection problem, which is identified as a key fundamental problem for modeling stateful data. To achieve effective and efficient state change detection, the proposed method utilizes two essential ideas. Since the discrepancy (a.k.a. histogram) based method has been proposed and verified to be more effective by previous works, the first idea is to improve its performance by involving more temporal information and utilizing the encoder–decoder techniques to reform the data. In view of the efficiency issue of the discrepancy‐based method, the second idea is to integrate both the Bayesian and discrepancy‐based detection methods, such that a perfect tradeoff between time efficiency and detection performance can be achieved. Experiments on both real and synthetic datasets show that the proposed methods are both effective and efficient, and the state change detection problem can be solved well by them on stateful time series data.
Integrative deep learning with prior assisted feature selection
Authors: Wang Feifei , Jia Ke , Li Yang
Published: June 2024

Integrative analysis has emerged as a prominent tool in biomedical research, offering a solution to the “small and large ” challenge. Leveraging the powerful capabilities of deep learning in extracting complex relationship between genes and diseases, our objective in this study is to incorporate deep learning into the framework of integrative analysis. Recognizing the redundancy within candidate features, we introduce a dedicated feature selection layer in the proposed integrative deep learning method. To further improve the performance of feature selection, the rich previous researches are utilized by an ensemble learning method to identify “prior information”. This leads to the proposed prior assisted integrative deep learning (PANDA) method. We demonstrate the superiority of the PANDA method through a series of simulation studies, showing its clear advantages over competing approaches in both feature selection and outcome prediction. Finally, a skin cutaneous melanoma (SKCM) dataset is extensively analyzed by the PANDA method to show its practical application.