bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The black feminist: Don't exclude the voice that nurtures you
Authors: Pippins Esther S. , Pippins Essie‐Elizabeth
Published: December 2023

In this article, we survey quotes, narratives, and theories of Black feminist scholars to provide some historical context of the Black feminist voice that challenged notions of achievable equity and elucidated the uniqueness of challenges relative to intersecting identities such as race and gender. The article delves into three Black feminist theories in adult educational studies to explore how core tenets of these particular theories could inform the development of an adult learning model. Next, we describe our proposed adult learning model based on a restorative justice structure centered in core concepts of the evolutionary voice of Black feminism.
Empowering adult sexual assault survivors in higher education through emancipatory learning and feminist pedagogy
Authors: Giffin Amber , Sun Qi , Glowacki‐Dudka Michelle
Published: December 2023

This article presents emancipatory feminist teaching methods to empower adult women who are survivors of sexual assault in higher education settings. It delves into the work of leading scholars such as Paulo Freire, Henry Giroux, and Ira Shor, as well as feminist pedagogy and relevant literature on sexual assault survivorship in higher education. Through analysis and synthesis of this literature, the article provides implications, recommendations, and a critique of applying emancipatory feminist pedagogy to promote emancipatory learning to empower survivors.
Synchronization of stochastic switching complex networks with a target of nonzero inputs
Authors: Tian Huanhuan , Wang Peijun
Published: December 2023

In this article, we study the mean square synchronization problems for complex networks with a target of nonzero inputs under stochastic switching topology that is driven by an ergodic continuous‐time Markov process. First, we design an adaptive continuous controller based on relative full states that is consist of a synchronization term and an uncertainty elimination term, where the latter term can completely eliminate the effects of target's nonzero inputs and is continuous by adding an exponential decay function with positive initial values into the denominator. By developing a stochastic Lyapunov function, we show that zero error synchronization in the mean square sense can be achieved if the union of switching graphs contains a directed spanning tree with the target being the root. Second, we design an adaptive continuous controller based on relative outputs. Finally, we give two simulation examples to validate the theoretical results.
Inkjet‐Printed Flexible Spin Seebeck Thermopile Device for Low‐Cost Spintronics Device Fabrication
Authors: Kurokawa Yuichiro , Yamada Keisuke , Yuasa Hiromi
Published: December 2023

Spin‐momentum‐mediated heat–charge conversion technologies for developing thin thermoelectric generators and heat flow sensors have been extensively studied. The thermoelectric generation (TEG) based on the spin Seebeck (SSE) effect is a promising technology. In this study, a flexible SSE thermopile device is fabricated using inkjet printing with Fe3O4 and Ag nanoparticle (NP) ink. A square Fe3O4 NP and a wire‐shaped Ag NP layer are used as the first and second layers, respectively. These layers are overlaid using inkjet printing twice. To obtain the SSE voltage (VSSE), a thin Pt film is deposited on a printed thermopile device. SSE generators consisting of a Pt thin film/Fe3O4 NP layer are connected through a Ag NP wire to form a thermopile structure. The saturated VSSE of the SSE thermopile device increases with the number of SSE generators. In addition, the SSE‐TEG of an SSE thermopile device is observed using a heat source with a curved surface. In these results, it is indicated that the inkjet‐printing fabrication method holds great potential in both the SSE thermopile devices and the flexible spintronic devices because it is a simple and fast process that does not require lithography.
Tailoring Strength and Ductility of an Fe–Mn–Al–C Low‐Density Duplex Steel by Controlling the Cooling Path after Hot Rolling
Authors: Li Zhenlei , Chen Rong , Wang Yi , Gao Long , Li Xiaowu
Published: December 2023

The low‐density duplex steels provide a potential for the industrial application owing to their good strength‐ductility match and reduced density. In the present work, the microstructure of an Fe–8.03Mn–6.10Al–0.4C (wt%) low‐density duplex steel was adjusted by controlling the cooling path after hot rolling, which is a conventional process during the production of steel sheets and strips. A microstructure of ferrite and austenite has been achieved by annealing the air‐cooled samples, and the microstructure of furnace‐cooled annealed samples consists of banded ferrite, austenite, and martensite. This is mainly due to the fact that the austenite is more stable by refining the grain size via embedding the needle‐like α‐ferrite. The existing of martensite and the banded microstructure in furnace‐cooled annealed samples induces the occurrence of cracks during deformation, resulting in an abrupt fracture at a relatively lower strain level. However, for air‐cooled annealed samples, a good ductility of duplex microstructure ensures that the deformation can be sustained up to a much higher strain level, and the transformation induced plasticity effect plays a positive role at the later deformation stage; this contributes to the occurrence of an extra work hardening rate recovery during deformation and thus to a good strength‐ductility match.
Bio‐Inspired Artificial Retinas Based on a Fibrous Inorganic–Organic Heterostructure for Neuromorphic Vision
Authors: Trung Tran Quang , Bag Atanu , Huyen Lai Thi Ngoc , Meeseepong Montri , Lee Nae‐Eung
Published: December 2023

To create artificial visual perception systems, artificial retina structures that can imitate the behavior of the biological retina in human vision are of great interest. However, these devices have limited abilities to emulate the structure and working principles of human retinas and the fiber‐shaped structure of optic nerves. Here, a bio‐inspired artificial retina based on a fibrous photonic artificial synapse (FPAS) formed by organic–inorganic heterojunctions on a single fiber is proposed. The two‐terminal structure of the FPAS can emulate the structure and working principle of the human retina, fiber‐shaped optic nerves, and the synaptic functions of optic neurons. The proposed FPAS is operated without external power by modulating the capture and release of photo‐generated carriers and the photo‐gating effect at the barriers formed by organic–inorganic heterojunctions. A bio‐inspired artificial retina structure can be created by aligning an FPAS on a flexible substrate to detect and memorize patterned ultraviolet light distribution for a certain period of time, after which the stored pattern image gradually decays. This artificial bio‐inspired retina device has great potential for use in wearable fiber‐structured neuromorphic visual systems.
Generative Modeling, Design, and Analysis of Spider Silk Protein Sequences for Enhanced Mechanical Properties
Authors: Lu Wei , Kaplan David L. , Buehler Markus J.
Published: December 2023

Spider silks are remarkable materials characterized by superb mechanical properties such as strength, extensibility, and lightweightedness. Yet, to date, limited models are available to fully explore sequence‐property relationships for analysis and design. Here a custom generative large‐language model is proposed to enable the design of novel spider silk protein sequences to meet complex combinations of target mechanical properties. The model, pretrained on a large set of protein sequences, is fine‐tuned on ≈1,000 major ampullate spidroin (MaSp) sequences for which associated fiber‐level mechanical properties exist, to yield an end‐to‐end forward and inverse generative approach that is aplied in a multi‐agent strategy. Performance is assessed through: 1) a novelty analysis and protein type classification for generated spidroin sequences through Basic Local Alignment Search Tool (BLAST) searches, 2) property evaluation and comparison with similar sequences, 3) comparison of resulting molecular structures, and 4) a detailed sequence motif analyses. This work generates silk sequences with property combinations that do not exist in nature and develops a deeper understanding of the mechanistic roles of sequence patterns in achieving overarching key mechanical properties (elastic modulus (E), strength, toughness, failure strain). The model provides an efficient approach to expand the silkome dataset, facilitating further sequence‐structure analyses of silks, and establishes a foundation for synthetic silk design and optimization.
Electrochemical Ultrathin Metal‐Atomic Layer Deposition for Silica Microenvironment‐Assisted Cu‐Based Catalysis
Authors: Jeevanandham Sampathkumar , Maji Ankur , Acharya Anubhab , Kumari Nitee , Gu Byeong Su , Yoon Youngkwan , Choi Hee Cheul , Kumar Amit , Lee In Su
Published: December 2023

Replacing commonly used precious and rare noble metals by the abundant copper (Cu)‐based catalysts is highly desired for sustainable fine‐chemical synthesis. However, in the lack of model platforms, complex surface chemistry of randomly nanostructured bulk Cu is notoriously challenging to understand and control. By synthesizing ultrathin 2D‐Cu layer sandwiched inside the bilayer silica template, an unusual but critical cooperative role of Lewis basic amino‐silica microenvironment for [Cu]‐catalyzed selective hydrogenation of unsaturated C─C bonds in diverse alkynes, ene‐ynes, and α,β‐unsaturated (alkene) Michael acceptors is discovered. Newly developed nanospace‐confined electrochemical (eChem) atomic layer deposition (NC‐EAD) technique afforded < 2 nm ultrathin Cu(0)‐layer intimately covered inside silica envelope. This model platform aided the detailed mechanistic study deciphering the unexpected finding – originally non‐reactive Cu‐film, just by a simple silica coating step, turning into an efficient catalyst for scalable fine‐chemical synthesis. The concept of reactive metal surface‐microenvironment manipulation, presents a new paradigm for controlling complex molecular interactions in heterogeneous catalysts.
Leveraging Surface Chemistry and Pore Shape Engineering in a Metal‐Organic Framework for One‐Step Olefin Purification
Authors: Lian Xin , Liu Pu‐Xu , Yuan Yue‐Chao , Pang Jing‐Jing , Li Lin , Liu Shan‐Shan , Yue Bin , Zhang Ying‐Hui , Li Libo , Xu Jian , Bu Xian‐He
Published: December 2023

Purifying olefin from ternary paraffin/olefin/alkyne mixtures through a one‐step adsorption process is extremely desirable. Herein, a stable zirconium(IV) metal‐organic framework with a customized pore surface composed of nonpolar phenyl and slightly polar thiophene rings is reported to access the adsorption preference of paraffin and alkyne over olefin. Noteworthily, this material displays a superior ability to discriminate C3 hydrocarbon molecules, which is principally more challenging compared with C2 ones and rarely documented. Computational studies disclose that its featured pore shape fits well with C3 gas molecules, enabling them to get close contact with the immobilized affinity sites. Leveraging surface chemistry and pore shape engineering synergistically gives rise to excellent C3 adsorption capacities (>5 mmol g−1) and concurrently high C3H8/C3H6 (1.4) and C3H4/C3H6 (1.9) selectivities (at 298 K and 1 atm). Dynamic column breakthrough experiments demonstrate that one‐step purification of C2H4 and C3H6 can be simultaneously realized on this material.
Near‐Infrared Nanophosphors Based on CuInSe2 Quantum Dots with Near‐Unity Photoluminescence Quantum Yield for Micro‐LEDs Applications
Authors: Lian Wei , Tu Datao , Weng Xukeng , Yang Kaiyu , Li Fushan , Huang Decai , Zhu Haomiao , Xie Zhi , Chen Xueyuan
Published: December 2023

Highly efficient near‐infrared (NIR) luminescent nanomaterials are urgently required for portable mini or micro phosphors‐converted light‐emitting diodes (pc‐LEDs). However, most existing NIR‐emitting phosphors are generally restricted by their low photoluminescence (PL) quantum yield (QY) or large particle size. Herein, a kind of highly efficient NIR nanophosphors is developed based on copper indium selenide quantum dots (CISe QDs). The PL peak of these QDs can be exquisitely manipulated from 750 to 1150 nm by altering the stoichiometry of Cu/In and doping with Zn2+. Their absolute PLQY can be significantly improved from 28.6% to 92.8% via coating a ZnSe shell. By combining the phosphors with a commercial blue chip, an NIR pc‐LED is fabricated with remarkable photostability and a record‐high radiant flux of 88.7 mW@350 mA among the Pb/Cd‐free QDs‐based NIR pc‐LEDs. Particularly, such QDs‐based nanophosphors acted as excellent luminescence converter for NIR micro‐LEDs with microarray diameters below 5 µm, which significantly exceeds the resolutions of current commercial inkjet display pixels. The findings may open new avenues for the exploration of highly efficient NIR micro‐LEDs in a variety of applications.
Improving the Photovoltaic Properties and Stability of Inverted Perovskite Solar Cells with Hydroxylamine‐Based Additives
Authors: Nagasawa Keisuke , Sano Takeshi , Chau Viet Nguyen , Enomoto Kensei , Okuyama Yutaka , Sayama Yuya , Oikawa Ryosuke , Chiba Takayuki , Kido Junji
Published: December 2023

Organic–inorganic halide perovskite solar cells (PVSCs) are considered a promising emerging photovoltaic technology that offer exceptional optoelectronic properties and the potential for economic solar energy conversion. Additive engineering‐based fabrication processes can achieve highly efficient and stable PVSCs that feature well‐controlled perovskite layers with a dense, uniform, “black” α‐phase crystal structure, as well as large grains and few defects. In this study, several hydroxylamine derivatives are introduced as additives to FAPbI3 precursor solutions to investigate their effects on the performance of PVSCs. The addition of hydroxylamine derivatives suppresses the formation of the unwanted δ‐phase and lead iodide, while the α‐phase cubic structure is preferentially formed without changing the bandgap of FAPbI3. Additionally, the additive‐treated perovskite films show improved stability compared with those without additives. Moreover, using X‐ray diffraction and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy analyses, it is discovered that the hydroxylamine‐based additives are not incorporated in the crystal lattices but rather resided on the surface or grain boundaries. Notably, the inverted PVSCs added with N‐methylhydroxylamine exhibit an improved power conversion efficiency, higher stability, and minimal hysteresis.
Synergistic Effect of Carbon Nanotube Yarn Hybrid Energy Harvesters Based on Mechanical Stretching and Glucose
Authors: Lee Dong Yeop , Hyeon Jae Sang , Mun Tae Jin , Moon Ji Hwan , Park Jong Woo , Kaner Richard B. , Kim Seon Jeong
Published: December 2023

Energy harvesting, as a sustainable power source for implantable medical devices within the human body, is an intriguing area of research. The utilization of biochemical and biomechanical energy derived from the body offers a promising sustainable energy source. However, obtaining high power density in vivo is a challenge. Herein, energy harvesting is demonstrated using hybrid energy harvesters that simultaneously use mechanical energy from stretching and chemical energy from glucose. The hybrid energy harvesters operate as both biofuel cells (BFC) and mechano‐electrochemical energy harvesters (MEEH) within a single electrochemical cell. As a result, the hybrid energy harvesters offer a maximum power density of 17.8 W kg−1 and an average power density of 15.1 W kg−1. These values increase by 14.5% in maximum power density and 16.8% in average power density, compared to the sum of the power density obtained by mechanical stretching and glucose oxidation individually. Based on their improved performance and compact size, owing to the synergistic effect of the two electrochemical harvesting methods, these hybrid harvesters have the potential to be applied to implantable power sources.
Microelectrode Arrays Measure Blocking of Voltage‐Gated Calcium Ion Channels on Supported Lipid Bilayers Derived from Primary Neurons
Authors: Lu Zixuan , Barberio Chiara , Fernandez‐Villegas Ana , Withers Aimee , Wheeler Alexandra , Kallitsis Konstantinos , Martinelli Eleonora , Savva Achilleas , Hess Becky M. , Pappa Anna‐Maria , Schierle Gabriele S. Kaminski , Owens Róisín M.
Published: December 2023

Drug studies targeting neuronal ion channels are crucial to understand neuronal function and develop therapies for neurological diseases. The traditional method to study neuronal ion‐channel activities heavily relies on the whole‐cell patch clamp as the industry standard. However, this technique is both technically challenging and labour‐intensive, while involving the complexity of keeping cells alive with low throughput. Therefore, the shortcomings are limiting the efficiency of ion‐channel‐related neuroscience research and drug testing. Here, this work reports a new system of integrating neuron membranes with organic microelectrode arrays (OMEAs) for ion‐channel‐related drug studies. This work demonstrates that the supported lipid bilayers (SLBs) derived from both neuron‐like (neuroblastoma) cells and primary neurons are integrated with OMEAs for the first time. The increased expression of voltage‐gated calcium (CaV) ion channels on differentiated SH‐SY5Y SLBs  compared to non‐differentiated ones is sensed electrically. Also, dose‐response of the CaV ion‐channel blocking effect on primary cortical neuronal SLBs from rats is monitored. The dose range causing ion channel blocking is comparable to literature. This system overcomes the major challenges from traditional methods (e.g., patch clamp) and showcases an easy‐to‐test, rapid, ultra‐sensitive, cell‐free, and high‐throughput platform to monitor dose‐dependent ion‐channel blocking effects on native neuronal membranes.
Design and Engineering of Light‐Induced Base Editors Facilitating Genome Editing with Enhanced Fidelity
Authors: Sun Yangning , Chen Qi , Cheng Yanbing , Wang Xi , Deng Zixin , Zhou Fuling , Sun Yuhui
Published: December 2023

Base editors, which enable targeted locus nucleotide conversion in genomic DNA without double‐stranded breaks, have been engineered as powerful tools for biotechnological and clinical applications. However, the application of base editors is limited by their off‐target effects. Continuously expressed deaminases used for gene editing may lead to unwanted base alterations at unpredictable genomic locations. In the present study, blue‐light‐activated base editors (BLBEs) are engineered based on the distinct photoswitches magnets that can switch from a monomer to dimerization state in response to blue light. By fusing the N‐ and C‐termini of split DNA deaminases with photoswitches Magnets, efficient A‐to‐G and C‐to‐T base editing is achieved in response to blue light in prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. Furthermore, the results showed that BLBEs can realize precise blue light‐induced gene editing across broad genomic loci with low off‐target activity at the DNA‐ and RNA‐level. Collectively, these findings suggest that the optogenetic utilization of base editing and optical base editors may provide powerful tools to promote the development of optogenetic genome engineering.
Manganese Enhances the Osteogenic Effect of Silicon‐Hydroxyapatite Nanowires by Targeting T Lymphocyte Polarization
Authors: Li Ruomei , Zhu Zhiyu , Zhang Bolin , Jiang Ting , Zhu Cheng , Mei Peng , Jin Yu , Wang Ruiqing , Li Yixin , Guo Weiming , Liu Chengxiao , Xia Lunguo , Fang Bing
Published: December 2023

Biomaterials encounter considerable challenges in extensive bone defect regeneration. The amelioration of outcomes may be attainable through the orchestrated modulation of both innate and adaptive immunity. Silicon‐hydroxyapatite, for instance, which solely focuses on regulating innate immunity, is inadequate for long‐term bone regeneration. Herein, extra manganese (Mn)‐doping is utilized for enhancing the osteogenic ability by mediating adaptive immunity. Intriguingly, Mn‐doping engenders heightened recruitment of CD4+ T cells to the bone defect site, concurrently manifesting escalated T helper (Th) 2 polarization and an abatement in Th1 cell polarization. This consequential immune milieu yields a collaborative elevation of interleukin 4, secreted by Th2 cells, coupled with attenuated interferon gamma, secreted by Th1 cells. This orchestrated interplay distinctly fosters the osteogenesis of bone marrow stromal cells and effectuates consequential regeneration of the mandibular bone defect. The modulatory mechanism of Th1/Th2 balance lies primarily in the indispensable role of manganese superoxide dismutase (MnSOD) and the phosphorylation of adenosine 5′‐monophosphate‐activated protein kinase (AMPK). In conclusion, this study highlights the transformative potential of Mn‐doping in amplifying the osteogenic efficacy of silicon‐hydroxyapatite nanowires by regulating T cell‐mediated adaptive immunity via the MnSOD/AMPK pathway, thereby creating an anti‐inflammatory milieu favorable for bone regeneration.
Takotsubo cardiomyopathy secondary to electroconvulsive therapy in a young adult with Down syndrome regression disorder
Authors: Ortega María del Carmen , Bullard José Pablo , del Mar Unceta María , Sánchez‐Pedreño Felipe Ortuño , Molero Patricio , de Asúa Diego Real
Published: December 2023

We report the case of an 18‐year‐old woman with Down syndrome (DS) who developed Takotsubo cardiomyopathy (TSC) immediately after the administration of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), a treatment prescribed for Down syndrome regression disorder resistant to oral psychotropic drugs. TSC is a nonischemic cardiomyopathy related to psychological or physical stress, which has been described as a rare complication of ECT (Kinoshita et al., 2023, Journal of Electroconvulsive Therapy, 39, 185–192). The clinical description of the case is accompanied by a discussion of the peculiarities of the autonomic nervous system in DS.
Spouses of individuals living with mild cognitive impairment or dementia in the United States: A descriptive, population‐based study
Authors: Torres Jacqueline M. , Flores Romero Karla Renata , Kotwal Ashwin A. , Chen Ruijia , Hill‐Jarrett Tanisha , Mitchell Uchechi A. , Glymour Medellena Maria
Published: December 2023

BACKGROUND

Little is known about the population of individuals who live with a spouse with cognitive impairment (CI) or dementia.

METHODS

Using the US Health and Retirement Study, 2000 to 2018, we estimated the population of adults ≥ 50 years old co‐residing with a spouse with probable CI/dementia. We described their socio‐demographic and health characteristics and quantified socio‐demographic inequities.

RESULTS

Among community‐dwelling adults ≥ 50 years old, 6% of women and 4% of men co‐resided with a spouse with probable CI/dementia. Among those who were married/partnered, the prevalence of spousal dementia was greater for Black and Hispanic adults compared to their White counterparts, and for those with lower versus higher educational attainment. Among spouses, activities of daily living disability, depression, and past 2‐year hospitalization was common.

DISCUSSION

Millions of older adults, disproportionately Black and Hispanic people and people with lower levels of educational attainment, live with a spouse with CI while also facing their own major health challenges.
When the central integrator disintegrates: A review of the role of the thalamus in cognition and dementia
Authors: Biesbroek J. Matthijs , Verhagen Marieke G. , van der Stigchel Stefan , Biessels Geert Jan
Published: December 2023

The thalamus is a complex neural structure with numerous anatomical subdivisions and intricate connectivity patterns. In recent decades, the traditional view of the thalamus as a relay station and “gateway to the cortex” has expanded in recognition of its role as a central integrator of inputs from sensory systems, cortex, basal ganglia, limbic systems, brain stem nuclei, and cerebellum. As such, the thalamus is critical for numerous aspects of human cognition, mood, and behavior, as well as serving sensory processing and motor functions. Thalamus pathology is an important contributor to cognitive and functional decline, and it might be argued that the thalamus has been somewhat overlooked as an important player in dementia. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of thalamus anatomy and function, with an emphasis on human cognition and behavior, and discuss emerging insights on the role of thalamus pathology in dementia.
One‐step hydrothermal preparation of chiral carbon quantum dots and enantioselective sensing of glutamine enantiomeric isomers
Authors: Li Xiang , Wu Jun , Zhu Xiashi
Published: December 2023

A novel method for chiral identification of glutamine enantiomers based on chiral carbon quantum dots (cCQDs) fluorescent probes. cCQDs were prepared using a one‐step hydrothermal method with L‐tryptophan as the carbon source and chiral source, producing spherical nanoparticles exhibiting a blue colour luminescence. The fluorescence intensity (F) of cCQDs was enhanced or quenched following the addition of chiral enantiomeric glutamine (L/D‐Gln), and therefore cCQDs, as a fluorescence probe, could be used for enantioselective sensing of the L/D‐Gln. The fluorescence enhancement value (∆FE) exhibited good linearity with L‐Gln concentration in the range 0.23–10.00 mM, and the limit of detection was 0.14 mM. The fluorescence quenching value (∆FQ) showed a good linear relationship with D‐Gln concentration in the range 0.29–10.00 mM, and the detection limit was 0.18 mM. The mechanism of fluorescence enhancement/quenching was explored by molecular modelling and the type of quenching. The method was applied to the determination of L‐Gln content in real samples, and the recovery rate was satisfactory. This study provided a novel approach for the synthesis of cCQDs and the recognition of amino acid enantiomers.
Improvement of gelation properties of indica rice flour with stabilized rice bran from different thermal treatment
Authors: Li Jia , Liu Chun , Wu Na‐Na , Tan Bin
Published: December 2023

Background and Objectives

Rice bran is enriched with bioactive compounds, which makes it more competitive as a functional food raw material. The stabilization of rice bran can inhibit the activity of endogenous enzymes, reduce its oxidation sensitivity, and change its physical and chemical properties, providing more possibilities for its application in the food industry. In this study, rice bran from five stabilization treatments (atmospheric pressure cooking, high‐pressure cooking, atmospheric steam, microwave heating, and extrusion cooking) were investigated for their effect on the gel properties of indica rice flour.

Findings

Stabilized rice bran could enhance the hydration properties and increase the enthalpy value of rice flour. The gelatinization properties indicated that the viscosity and fluidity of the rice paste were increased, and the aggregation and rearrangement of rice starch were promoted. From the rheological properties, stabilized rice bran enhanced the viscoelasticity of the rice flour gel. In addition, the stabilized rice bran could also reduce the yield of freeze‐thawing water of the rice flour gel. Rice bran with thermal treatments can significantly improve the gel properties of indica rice flour.

Conclusions

Indica rice flour mixed with stabilized rice bran showed significant improvements in hydration, gelatinization, rheological properties, and freeze‐thaw stability.

Significance and Novelty

It is potential for the application of the gel from rice flour with stabilized rice bran in the starch‐based food industry.
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors during pregnancy and lactation: A scoping review of effects on the maternal and infant gut microbiome
Authors: Desorcy‐Scherer Katelyn , Fricke Hannah P. , Hernandez Laura L.
Published: December 2023

Perinatal mood disorders are a tremendous burden to childbearing families and treatment with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressants is increasingly common. Exposure to SSRIs may affect serotonin signaling and ultimately, microbes that live in the gut. Health of the gut microbiome during pregnancy, lactation, and early infancy is critical, yet there is limited evidence to describe the relationship between SSRI exposure and gut microbiome status in this population. The purpose of this Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA)‐compliant scoping review is to assess evidence and describe key concepts regarding whether SSRI exposure affects the maternal and infant gut microbiome. Sources were collected from PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus databases, and an additional gray literature search was performed. Our search criteria returned only three sources, two rodent models and one human subjects research study. Results suggest that fluoxetine (SSRI) exposure may affect maternal gut microbiome dynamics during pregnancy and lactation. There were no available sources to describe the relationship between perinatal SSRI exposure and the infant gut microbiome. There is a significant gap in the literature regarding whether SSRI antidepressants affect the maternal and infant gut microbiome. Future studies are required to better understand how SSRI antidepressant exposure affects perinatal health.
Development and practice of learning materials for an engineering oriented circuit design workshop for elementary school student
Authors: Ishibashi Tadashi , Moriyama Jun
Published: December 2023

This study aimed to develop teaching materials for circuit design and fabrication for elementary school students, and conduct workshops oriented to engineering. First, the content of the circuit design workshop was discussed and it was determined that a connection‐focused design would be appropriate. Second, we examined the issue of existing teaching materials. Many of the existing kit materials were not suitable for learning circuit design as it was already completed. In addition, many of them required soldering work, which was too difficult for elementary school students. Hands‐on materials that allow students to construct circuits through trial and error were suitable for learning circuit design. Therefore, we developed design and fabrication support materials using a 3D printer and conductive tape. Next, we provided workshop opportunities using developed material, with the theme of “making light‐up cards,” wherein elementary school students worked on designing the layout of the components and fabrication. Consequently, students’ conceptual understanding of the connection was improved. All students were able to complete the circuit, with high self‐evaluations of satisfaction and understanding suggesting that the activity was engineering‐oriented.
Study of humidity sensor using α‐Fe2O3 as a humidity‐sensitive material
Authors: Naito Kosuke , Sasaki Kyohei , Ikenaga Noriaki
Published: December 2023

In this study, iron oxide thin films are prepared under various heat treatment conditions, and their crystal structures and moisture‐sensitive characteristics were evaluated to clarify the usefulness of iron oxide thin films as humidity‐sensitive materials for humidity sensors. In addition, the possibility of a humidity sensor with a wide dynamic range was investigated by evaluating the relationship between the film thickness of the iron oxide thin film, the electrode width of the device, and the humidity‐sensitive characteristics. As a result, it was found that the crystal structure of α‐Fe2O3 exhibits relatively good humidity sensitivity compared to other crystal structures, and that the sensitivity to humidity can be adjusted by appropriately selecting the electrode width and film thickness of the device. Therefore, the α‐Fe2O3 thin film may be useful as a moisture‐sensitive material for wide dynamic range humidity sensors by appropriately adjusting the film thickness and electrode width.
Predictive value of protein‐bound uremic toxins for heart failure in patients with chronic kidney disease
Authors: Zwaenepoel Bert , De Backer Tine , Glorieux Griet , Verbeke Francis
Published: December 2023

Aims

This retrospective cohort study aimed to be the first to evaluate the association between plasma protein‐bound uremic toxins (PBUTs) concentrations, echocardiographic parameters of heart failure (HF), and incident HF events in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) not on dialysis.

Methods and results

Retrospective, single‐centre, cohort study at the Ghent University Hospital, Belgium. Adults with CKD stages G1–G5, not on dialysis, could be included. Exclusion criteria were ongoing pregnancy, age <18 years, active acute infection, active malignancy, history of transplantation, or a cardiovascular event within 3 months prior to inclusion. Free and total concentrations of five PBUTs were quantified at baseline: indoxyl sulfate (IxS), p‐cresyl sulfate (pCS), p‐cresyl glucuronide (pCG), indole‐3 acetic acid (IAA), and hippuric acid (HA). Patients were grouped into three echocardiographic categories: normal left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and normal left ventricular end‐diastolic pressure (LVEDP), normal LVEF and increased LVEDP, and reduced LVEF, based on available echocardiographic data in a time interval of ±6 months around the plasma sample collection. A total of 523 patients were included between January 2011 and January 2014. Echocardiographic data within the predefined timeframe were available for 210 patients (40% of patients). Levels of pCG and pCS were significantly higher in patients with reduced (<50%) versus normal LVEF (P < 0.05). After a median follow‐up 5.5 years, 43 (8.4%) patients reached the composite endpoint of hospitalization or mortality due to HF. Free fractions of IxS, pCS, and pCG showed the strongest association with clinical outcome: free IxS: HR 1.71 (95% CI 1.11–2.63; P = 0.015), free pCS: HR 1.82 (95% CI 1.11–3.01; P = 0.019), and free pCG: HR 1.67 (95% CI 1.08–2.58; P = 0.020), and these results were independent of age, gender, body mass index, diabetes, and systolic blood pressure. In models that were also adjusted for serum creatinine, the free fractions of these PBUTs remained significant.

Conclusions

Elevated free concentrations of IxS, pCG, and pCS were independently associated with an increased risk of HF events in non‐dialysed CKD patients. Further research is necessary to confirm these findings and investigate the potential impact of PBUT‐lowering interventions on HF events in this patient group.
Pharmacoutilization and adherence to sacubitril/valsartan in real world: the REAL.IT study in HFrEF
Authors: Iacoviello Massimo , Di Gesaro Gabriele , Sarullo Filippo Maria , Miani Daniela , Driussi Mauro , Correale Michele , Bilato Claudio , Passantino Andrea , Carluccio Erberto , Villani Alessandra , degli Esposti Luca , d'Agostino Chiara , Peruzzi Elena , Poli Simone , di Lenarda Andrea
Published: December 2023

Aims

The current European Society of Cardiology (ESC) guidelines provide clear indications for the treatment of acute and chronic heart failure (HF). Nevertheless, there is a constant need for real‐world evidence regarding the effectiveness, adherence, and persistence of drug therapy. We investigated the use of sacubitril/valsartan for the treatment of HF with reduced ejection fraction in real‐world clinical practice in Italy.

Methods and results

An observational, retrospective, non‐interventional cohort study based on electronic medical records from nine specialized hospital HF centres in Italy was carried out on patients with prescription of sacubitril/valsartan. Overall, 948 patients had a prescription of sacubitril/valsartan, with 924 characterized over 6 months and followed up for 12 months. Pharmacoutilization data at 1 year of follow‐up were available for 225 patients {mean age 69.7 years [standard deviation (SD) = 10.8], 81.8% male}. Of those, 398 (45.2%) reached the target dose of sacubitril/valsartan of 97/103 mg in a mean time of 6.9 (SD = 6.2) weeks. Blood pressure and hypotension in 61 patients (65%) and worsening of chronic kidney disease in 10 patients (10.6%) were the main reasons for not reaching the target dose. Approximatively 50% of patients had a change in sacubitril/valsartan dose during follow‐up, and 158 (70.2%) were persistent with the treatment during the last 3 months of follow‐up. A sensitivity analysis (persistence during the last 4 months of follow‐up) showed persistence for 162 patients (72.0%). Adherence data, available for 387 patients, showed full adherence for 205 (53%). Discontinuation (102/717 patients, 14.2%) was mainly due to hypotension and occurred after a mean time of 34.3 (SD = 28.7) weeks. During follow‐up, out of 606 patients with available data, 434 patients (71.6%) had an HF add‐on drug or drugs concomitant with sacubitril/valsartan. HF‐related hospitalization during follow‐up was numerically higher in non‐persistent (16/67 patients, 23.9%) vs. patients persistent to sacubitril/valsartan (30/158, 19%) (P = 0.405).

Conclusions

Real‐world data on the use of sacubitril/valsartan in clinical practice in Italy show a rapid titration to the target dose, high therapeutic adherence enabling a good level of therapeutic management in line with ESC guidelines for patients with reduced ejection fraction.
Exploring possibilities for the development of healthy eating habits in preschool settings: parent's and teacher's perspectives
Authors: Niškanović Jelena , Stojisavljević Dragana , Stojisavljević Stela , Djikanovic Bosiljka , Manigoda Dijana
Published: December 2023

Adoption of eating habits starts early in life, through interaction with family members and alongside preschool settings that offer context for developing healthy lifestyles among children. The aim of this study was to explore the perceptions and practices of teachers and parents related to the development of healthy eating habits among preschool children. Focus groups were conducted with a total sample of 48 parents and teachers (three focus groups among parents and three among teachers) from 15 kindergartens in the Republic of Srpska, Bosnia, and Herzegovina. All of the mentioned kindergartens are part of the “Nutrition friendly preschool/school initiative”, a program aimed at creating and developing settings that support and improve children's health. Focus groups were audiotaped, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed according to the Framework Method. Teachers emphasized that good communication and support from parents are important factors for the development of healthy eating habits. During COVID‐19, direct communication with parents was restricted, and mutual activities among teachers, children, and parents were reduced. Lack of knowledge, finance, and time are perceived by parents as main obstacles to the improvement of children's healthy eating habits. All participants in the focus groups agreed that more education and informative material are needed so their skills related to good nutrition can be improved and adopted in a culture‐sensitive way. Mutual support, education, and dissemination of informative materials are imposed as particularly important needs by all actors involved in the upbringing of children in order to support the development of children's healthy eating habits.
Simple and safe resection of the crista galli
Authors: Omura Kazuhiro , Nomura Kazuhiro , Aoki Satoshi , Takeda Teppei , Ebihara Teru , Kimple Adam J. , Thorp Brian D. , Zeatoun Abdullah L. , Otori Nobuyoshi , Senior Brent A.
Published: December 2023

A critical procedure in the transcribriform approach is the resection of the crista galli. However, the standard technique for crista galli resection has several disadvantages. We reviewed the cases of patients with olfactory neuroblastomas who underwent an endoscopic endonasal transcribriform approach using a newly developed technique for crista galli resection. We performed a cadaveric study to measure the superior accessibility limits using the proposed method. We included 38 patients with olfactory neuroblastomas in this study. The tumor invaded the posterior crista galli in four patients. The anterior end of the crista galli was not invaded by the tumor. Our cadaveric study showed that the dura was approachable to the point that was 7.4 ± 1.3 mm superior and 23.2 ± 7.2 mm lateral to the foramen cecum following crista galli removal. By resecting the crista galli in advance, manipulation of the superior dura became feasible.
Relationships among tissues, biofluids, and otolith selenium concentrations in wild female burbot (Lota lota)
Authors: Graves Stephanie D , Molbert Noëlie , Janz David M , Hayhurst Lauren D , Brandt Jessica E , Timlick Lauren , Palace Vince P
Published: December 2023

In the Lake Koocanusa-Kootenai River system (Montana, USA and British Columbia, Canada), selenium (Se) contamination has become an international concern and is suspected to contribute to the observed burbot (Lota lota) population collapse. Due to our limited ability to sample burbot in Lake Koocanusa for monitoring studies, we used a reference population to develop tools to model tissue Se disposition for a focal species in systems with elevated Se. Total Se concentrations in otoliths, biofluids (blood and endolymph), and tissues (muscle, liver, and ovary) from burbot in reference lakes in northwestern Ontario, Canada, were measured to document tissue-to-tissue Se relationships and evaluate the potential for otoliths to retrace Se exposure in fish. Among burbot tissue, Se concentrations were the highest in the ovary (mean ± SD = 4.55 ± 2.23 μg g−1 dry mass [dm]), followed by the liver (2.69 ± 1.96 μg g−1 dm) and muscle (1.87 ± 1.14 μg g−1 dm), and decreased with body size (p < 0.05). In otoliths, Se was detected at low levels (<1 μg g−1). Selenium concentrations in burbot samples were positively correlated among muscle, ovary, liver, and endolymph tissues, but not for the most recent annually averaged or lifetime-averaged Se concentrations in otoliths. We hypothesize that Se concentrations were too low in this study to establish links between otoliths and other fish tissues and to detect significant lifetime variation in individuals, and that further validation using archived otoliths from burbot exposed to elevated Se levels in Lake Koocanusa-Kootenai River is needed to reconstruct exposure histories. However, intercompartmental models proved valuable for estimating Se concentrations in burbot tissues only available by means of lethal sampling (i.e., ovary), although additional work should confirm whether the established models are reliable to predict concentrations in Se-impaired systems as tissue distributions are likely to differ with increasing Se levels.
Woman's work: The moderating effects of gender role orientations between the relationships of work–family conflict with voluntary turnover and being valued by one's spouse
Authors: Peltokorpi Vesa , Cieply Isea , Froese Fabian J.
Published: December 2023

Gender role attitudes determine the importance of work–family domains to individuals and how they are influenced by work–family conflict (WFC). In this study, we draw on gender role and social role theories to hypothesize that working mothers' gender role perceptions moderate the relationships between WFC and two outcomes: voluntary turnover (work domain) and feeling valued by one's spouse (family domain). We tested our hypotheses with 14‐month time‐lagged survey data from 731 working mothers in Japan. The results of our regression analyses suggest that working mothers scoring high on WFC and egalitarian gender roles have a lower propensity to voluntary turnover and a higher propensity to feel valued by their spouses than working mothers low on WFC and egalitarian gender roles. Our study highlights the importance of considering within‐gender differences in research on WFC and moderating effects of gender role attitudes between WFC and outcomes in work and family domains.
In vitro effect of Er: YAG laser irradiation in caries cavity preparation on biobehaviors of adjacent human dental pulp cells in the pulp chamber
Authors: Wang Shaofeng , Li Yijun , Wang Yanhuang , Huang Jing , Cai Zhiyu , Huang Xiaojing
Published: December 2023

The erbium‐doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Er: YAG) laser has been successfully applied in caries removal; however, little is known about proper parameters of Er: YAG laser on different conditions of caries removal, especially the influence of Er: YAG irradiation on human dental pulp cells (hDPCs). Here, we tested the effects of Er: YAG laser at different output energy levels (100, 200, 300, 400, and 500 mJ) on biobehaviors of hDPCs. To simulate clinical deep caries conditions, hDPCs were cultured on the pulpal side of 500‐μm‐thick dentin disks in an in vitro pulp chamber model. Temperature change, structural change, and ablation depth of dentin disk were also recorded. The findings suggested that the biological behaviors of hDPCs are strongly correlated with the energy output of the Er: YAG laser. Er: YAG laser irradiation at 100 mJ may be proper and safe for deep caries removal since it would not cause any adverse effect on hDPCs biobehaviors.
Cold atmospheric plasma sensitizes melanoma cells to targeted therapy agents in vitro
Authors: Yan Cong , Zhao Lihong , Zhang Xinyue , Chu Zhaowei , Zhou Tong , Zhang Yanbin , Geng Songmei , Guo Kun
Published: December 2023

Cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) has been reported to kill melanoma cells in vitro and in vivo. BRAF and MEK inhibitors are targeted therapy agents for advanced melanoma patients with BRAF mutations. However, low overall survival and relapse‐free survival are still tough challenges due to drug resistance. In this study, we confirmed that CAP alleviated innate drug resistance and promoted the anti‐tumor effect of targeted therapy in A875 and WM115 melanoma cells in vitro. Further, we revealed that CAP altered the expression of various molecules concerning MAPK and PI3K‐AKT pathways in A875 cells. This study demonstrates that CAP promises to work as adjuvant treatment with targeted therapy to overcome drug resistance for malignant tumors in future.
Evaluation of the fully automated urine particle analyzer UF‐1500
Authors: Morita Yoshifumi , Yokoyama Rin , Tanaka Masami , Nakatsuka Naru , Hisasue Takashi , Ono Yoshikazu , Kurano Makoto
Published: December 2023

Background and Aims

This study primarily assessed the performance of the UF‐1500, the novel and compact model of the fully automated urine particle analyzer and evaluated its performance against the existing UF‐5000 instrument.

Materials and Methods

A total of 648 residual urine specimens were randomly collected and examined using both the UF‐1500 and UF‐5000 instruments as well as manual microscopy. For each parameter, the concordance rates and detection accuracy of the UF‐1500 against manual microscopy were compared with the UF‐5000.

Results

The concordance rates between the UF‐1500 and manual microscopy were 75.3%–98.5%. The UF‐1500 concordance rates within one group agreement were observed to be >90%, for all parameters except for YLCs. The differences within one group agreement between the UF‐1500 and manual microscopy were insignificant, in comparison to the UF‐5000, with exceptions noted for ECs and YLCs. The sensitivity and specificity of the UF‐1500 for RBCs, WBCs, Squa.ECs, and BACT exceeded 80%, while the positive predictive values of ECs and CASTs were below 70%.

Conclusion

The UF‐1500 exhibited a performance that was comparable to the existing instrument, the UF‐5000, and was suitable to be introduced in clinical practice. For the samples with suspected false‐positive or false‐negative results, a manual microscopic examination is required for accurate testing.