bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enfacement illusions: Filling a knowledge gap in eating disorder risk assessment, prevention, and intervention?
Authors: Portingale Jade , Krug Isabel , Butler David
Published: June 2024

Body image disturbance (BID) is central to eating disorders (EDs), yet the role of self‐face perception has received limited empirical attention despite rising sociocultural pressures emphasizing facial appearance through technologies such as social media. Emerging evidence suggests impairments in self‐face recognition accuracy and distorted perceptions of facial appearance among individuals with EDs. Enfacement illusions, involving the experimental induction of perceived ownership over another's face, offer a novel paradigm to comprehensively investigate the perceptual multisensory integration processes underlying self‐face perception disturbances in ED populations. Such an approach may hold promise for elucidating core pathological mechanisms contributing to BID and ED psychopathology. We discuss how rigorous investigation of self‐face perception through the enfacement illusion paradigm represents an innovative direction of research and/or clinical application that may advance etiological models of EDs and possibly inform interventions targeting the potentially multidimensional nature of body and facial image disturbances characterizing EDs.

Public Significance Statement

Body image disturbance is central to eating disorders (EDs), yet, the role of face‐related disturbances remains critically under‐investigated. After summarizing findings on face‐related disturbances in EDs we propose how enfacement illusions (i.e., the experimental induction of ownership over another's face) may elucidate self‐face perception disturbances in EDs, and their underlying mechanisms. Enfacement illusions may also offer an intervention to potentially address multifaceted face and body image disturbances characterizing EDs.
Factors associated with seedling establishment on logs of different fungal decay types—A seed‐sowing experiment
Authors: Fukasawa Yu , Kitabatake Hiroyuki
Published: June 2024

Wood decay fungi alter the abiotic and biotic properties of deadwood, which are important as nurse logs for seedling regeneration. However, the relationship between fungal decay type and seedling performance has not been evaluated experimentally. In this study, we examined the germination, growth, and survival of six arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) and six ectomycorrhizal (ECM) tree species on three substrates (pine logs with brown and white rot and soil) by conducting seed‐sowing experiments in a mixed forest dominated by Pinus densiflora and Quercus serrata. Analysis using ribosomal DNA internal transcribed spacer 1 (rDNA ITS1) sequencing revealed that the fungal community was significantly different across three substrates. The richness of operational taxonomic units (OTUs) of AM and ECM fungi was the largest on brown rot logs and soil, respectively. The substrate significantly affected the seedling performance when comparing wood decay types, but these were not consistent across the mycorrhizal status of the seedlings. Nevertheless, seedlings of some AM trees showed better growth and enhanced mycorrhizal colonization on brown rot logs than on white rot logs. The wood decay type influenced fungal communities in the logs and the performance of some seedling species partly by different mycorrhizal colonization rates. However, the effect was seedling species dependent and showed no apparent difference between AM and ECM trees.
Cardiac function, haemodynamics, and valve competence with exercise in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction and mild to moderate secondary mitral regurgitation
Authors: Harada Tomonari , Naser Jwan A. , Tada Atsushi , Doi Shunichi , Ibe Tatsuro , Pislaru Sorin V. , Eleid Mackram F. , Sorimachi Hidemi , Obokata Masaru , Reddy Yogesh N.V. , Borlaug Barry A.
Published: June 2024

Aims

This study aimed to evaluate the clinical significance of secondary mitral regurgitation (MR) in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF).

Methods and results

We conducted a prospective study enrolling consecutively evaluated patients with HFpEF undergoing invasive haemodynamic exercise testing with simultaneous echocardiography. Compared to HFpEF without MR (n = 145, 79.7%), those with mild or moderate MR (n = 37, 20.3%) were older, more likely to be women, had more left ventricular (LV) systolic dysfunction, and more likely to have left atrial (LA) myopathy reflected by greater burden of atrial fibrillation, more LA dilatation, and poorer LA function. Pulmonary artery (PA) wedge pressure was higher at rest in HFpEF with MR (17 ± 5 mmHg vs. 20 ± 5 mmHg, p = 0.005), but there was no difference with exercise. At rest, only 2 (1.1%) patients had moderate MR, and none developed severe MR. Pulmonary vascular resistance was higher, and right ventricular (RV)‐PA coupling was more impaired in patients with HFpEF and MR at rest and exercise. LV and LA myocardial dysfunction remained more severe in patients with MR during stress compared to those without MR, characterized by greater LA dilatation during all stages of exertion, lower LA emptying fraction and compliance, steeper and rightward‐shifted LA pressure–volume relationships, and reduced LV longitudinal contractile function.

Conclusions

Patients with HFpEF and mild or moderate MR have more severe LV systolic dysfunction, LA myopathy, RV‐PA uncoupling, and more severe pulmonary vascular disease. Mitral valve incompetence in this setting is a phenotypic marker of more advanced disease but is not a causal factor in development of HFpEF.
A clustering machine learning approach for improving concrete compressive strength prediction
Authors: Demetriou Demetris , Polydorou Thomaida , Nicolaides Demetris , Petrou Michael F.
Published: June 2024

This study investigates the application of clustering techniques to enhance the accuracy of hierarchical classification and regression (HCR) models for predicting concrete compressive strength (CCS). Following the hypothesis that integrating clustering at the initial levels of model hierarchy reduces classification errors and prevents their propagation to subsequent levels, HCR models were developed utilizing both the unweighted pair group method with arithmetic mean (UPGMA) and hard clustering (HC) methods. Findings demonstrate that models using UPGMA significantly outperform those based on HC. Furthermore, it was demonstrated that further hierarchical clustering allows for multilayered HCR models that improve predictive performance by further leveraging parent–child relationships within data clusters. Overall, this study demonstrates that the proposed methodology can be introduced in the model development pipeline to enhance the prediction accuracy of CCS models.
Optimized Design and Operation Control of Refrigerant Direct Cooling Thermal Management System for Power Battery
Authors: Zhou Yibin , Tang Aikun , Wang Zhentao , Yang Peng
Published: June 2024

In order to solve the compatibility problem of lithium batteries thermal management and cabin comfort in electric vehicles, a refrigerant direct cooling thermal management system is designed in this article, which is expected to balance the temperature demands of entire vehicle at different driving conditions. A one‐dimensional model is established to investigate the system performance, whose accuracy has been verified by the testing bench of a prototype fixed with a 16‐battery module. By the aid of this model, the thermal characteristics of the battery pack and the passenger cabin are obtained, and the compressor speed as well as the valves are selected as control units by sensitivity analysis of the important components. Subsequently, detailed control strategies around the variable frequency of compress speed and switch regulation for the valves are proposed based on the temperature changes, torque, and operating power consumption of the system in different control modes. Under the test conditions of the global light‐duty vehicle test procedure, it is found that cabin temperature can be quickly stabilized about 26 °C under different ambient temperatures. Additionally, the battery pack can be effectively maintained within the safe operating temperature range of 20–40 °C.
Controlled growth of uniform and dense perovskite layers on SnO2 via interface passivation by PbS quantum dots
Authors: Liu Yulin , Bae Sumin , Lee Seongha , Wang Anqi , Jung Youngsoo , Lee Doh‐Kwon , Lee Jung‐Kun
Published: June 2024

Formamidinium lead iodide (FAPbI3) and SnO2 are a promising pair of halide perovskite and electron transport layer (ETL). However, FAPbI3 and SnO2 have inherent problems such as high crystallization temperature of FAPbI3 and surface defects of SnO2 like oxygen vacancies. They cause low crystallinity, non‐uniform grain growth, and more interface defects, leading to carrier recombination and leakage current. The passivation of the interface between FAPbI3 and SnO2 is an effective process to address these materials issues. Herein, a dual role of lead sulfide (PbS) quantum dots (QDs) in the interface passivation is explored. PbS QDs which are introduced to the interface between FAPbI3 and ETL, link to Sn‐dangling bonds of SnO2 ETLs and anchor the iodine atoms of FAPbI3. This changes considerably lower nonradiative recombination, achieve a better energetic alignment between ETL and PbI3, and facilitate electron extraction, leading to a power conversion efficiency of 21.66%.

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Pulsatile corticoid therapy reduces interictal epileptic activity burden in children with genetic drug‐resistant epilepsy
Authors: Schiller Katharina , Thomas John , Avigdor Tamir , Mansilla Daniel , Kortas Aline , Unterholzner Gabriele , Rauchenzauner Markus , Frauscher Birgit
Published: June 2024

Objective

Corticosteroids and adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) are the therapy of choice to treat infantile spasms. However, systematic studies about their use in other types of childhood epilepsies remain rare and ACTH can have serious side effects. This study compares the interictal epileptic activity (IEA) burden (% of electroencephalography (EEG) time with IEDs) in children with genetic drug‐resistant epilepsy before and after a standardized treatment with pulsatile corticoid therapy (PCT).

Methods

Children with drug‐resistant epilepsy underwent a standardized protocol for PCT with cycles of high‐dose dexamethasone (20 mg/m2 body surface) intravenously. Patients were hospitalized for 3 days per PCT cycle and EEGs were obtained before initiation of treatment (baseline) and during the hospitalization around the time of every second cycle. EEG recordings during sleep and wakefulness were obtained. IEA burden was compared before and after PCT. Secondary outcome measures included the sleep spindle rate, the seizure frequency and subjective evaluation in a standardized interview.

Results

In the cohort of 24 children (10 female, 6.2 ± 3.4 years), IEA burden was lower in the EEG after PCT compared to the baseline (baseline: 5.4% [0.7–97.3] vs. after PCT: 1.5% [0–96.9], p = 0.001, d = −0.41). Sleep physiology expressed by sleep spindles improved after PCT with enhanced fast spindle rates (0.8/min [0–2.2] vs. 1.5/min [0.2–3.4], p = 0.045, d = 0.36). Seizure frequency was decreased in 17 of the 24 patients (70.8%) with one patient achieving seizure freedom. The majority of patients improved in quality of life (79.2%), and sleep (81.3%). No serious adverse effects were documented.

Significance

This study systematically assessed the effect of PCT in children with genetic / suspected genetic drug‐resistant epilepsy. PCT was found to not only reduce the IEA burden but also increase sleep spindle rates, which are important for cognitive functioning.

Plain Language Summary

In this study, children with a form of epilepsy, which is resistant against antiseizure medication, received a systematic treatment with corticosteroids over multiple cycles in the hospital. It was found that not only the epileptic activity was reduced but also the sleep of the patients was improved after the treatment. These findings could provide the basis for extending the use of corticosteroids in children with epilepsy.
Damage characteristics of gas extraction boreholes under different crustal stresses and their effects on gas extraction
Authors: Guang Yang , Hongbao Zhao
Published: June 2024

To investigate the effects of different crustal stresses on the stability of gas extraction boreholes, several equations were deduced. Additionally, the coupled flow‐solid model of gas extraction was constructed, given the elasticity−plasticity deformation of the coal body. Using the numerical simulation and analysis software of Comsol, a study was conducted on the deformation and damage of gas extraction boreholes under different crustal stresses. The results are as follows: with vertical stress increasing, the concentration area of shear stress, deformation amount, and the area of the plastic zone around the hole increase. Varied lateral pressure coefficients led to differing distribution positions of shear stress concentration areas and plastic zones around the hole. An increase in lateral pressure coefficient shifted the distribution positions of shear stress maximum. In addition, plastic zone, and permeability ratio maximum change from the left and right sides of the borehole to the upper and lower sides, and the larger the lateral pressure coefficient is, the worse the stability of the upper and lower sides of the borehole is. Higher lateral pressure coefficients inhibited extraction, with the effect becoming more pronounced over time. Elevated vertical stress and lateral pressure coefficients hindered negative pressure propagation in the borehole.
The Cochrane risk of bias assessment tool 2 (RoB 2) versus the original RoB: A perspective on the pros and cons
Authors: Nejadghaderi Seyed Aria , Balibegloo Maryam , Rezaei Nima
Published: June 2024

Background and Aims

Critical appraisal or risk of bias assessment is a fundamental part of systematic reviews that clarifies the degree to which included research articles are qualified and reliable. Version 2 of the Cochrane tool for assessing the risk of bias in randomized trials (RoB 2), the updated version of the first tool, was released in 2019. Here, we have compared these two versions of Cochrane risk of bias assessment tools and highlighted the pros and cons of RoB 2.

Methods

Statistical analysis and methodology is not applicable to this article as no new data were created or analyzed in this study.

Results

The overall approach in RoB 2 is that by answering some signaling questions after the specification of results, effects of interest, and sources of information, an overall judgment for the quality of each study is reached. Accordingly, in the original version of the Cochrane RoB tool, the judgment can be in three different conclusions, including low, unclear, and high risk of bias. The most prominent difference in bias domains is the removal of “other bias” domain being replaced by “overall bias” judgment. Also, the most common presentation types of Cochrane risk of bias assessments are the “summary” and “graph” which are generated by Review Manager, web‐based applications, or packages in R software.

Conclusion

The RoB 2 tool, compared to the original RoB, has improved and is the recommended version by the Cochrane Collaboration for quality assessment of randomized controlled trials. It is recommended to consider funding source, duration of follow‐up, declaration of data availability, the status of baseline characteristics between groups, and sample size calculation methods in further revisions of the Cochrane risk of bias assessment tools.
Association of gestational hepatitis B virus infection and antiviral therapy with pregnancy outcomes: A retrospective study
Authors: Mao Kaiyi , Jiang Pingying , Cai Weiqi , Lin Yongxu , Zhou Yu , Li Dan
Published: June 2024

Objective

To explore the relationships between gestational hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection, antiviral therapy, and pregnancy outcomes.

Methods

We retrospectively selected hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg)‐positive pregnant women hospitalized for delivery at Fujian Medical University Affiliated Hospital from October 1, 2016 to October 1, 2020. The control group included randomly selected healthy pregnant women hospitalized for delivery during the same time.

Results

Overall, 1115 participants were enrolled and grouped into control (n = 380) and HBsAg‐positive groups (n = 735), which were further divided into groups I (n = 407; low viral load), II (n = 207; high viral load without antiviral therapy), and III (n = 121; high viral load with antiviral therapy). Pregnant women with HBV were positively correlated with the incidence of intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP) (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 5.1, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.62–9.92, P < 0.001), neonatal jaundice (aOR 10.56, 95% CI 4.49–24.83, P < 0.001), and neonatal asphyxia (aOR 5.03, 95% CI 1.46–17.27, P = 0.01). Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) greater than the upper limit of normal (ULN) was an independent risk factor for increased ICP incidence (aOR 3.49, 95% CI 1.26–9.67, P = 0.019). Antiviral therapy considerably reduced HBV DNA and improved liver function. High viral load and antiviral therapy did not correlate significantly with adverse pregnancy outcomes (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Pregnant women with HBV have significantly elevated incidence of ICP, neonatal jaundice, and neonatal asphyxia not significantly correlated with viral load. AST greater than ULN independently increases the risk of ICP. Antiviral therapy effectively reduces viral replication and improves liver function without increasing the risk of adverse outcomes.
The aryl hydrocarbon receptor pathway is a marker of lung cell activation but does not play a central pathologic role in engineered stone‐associated silicosis
Authors: Song Yong , Yen Seiha , Southam Katherine , Gaskin Sharyn , Hoy Ryan F. , Zosky Graeme R.
Published: June 2024

Engineered stone‐associated silicosis is characterised by a rapid progression of fibrosis linked to a shorter duration of exposure. To date, there is lack of information about molecular pathways that regulates disease development and the aggressiveness of this form of silicosis. Therefore, we compared transcriptome responses to different engineered stone samples and standard silica. We then identified and further tested a stone dust specific pathway (aryl hydrocarbon receptor [AhR]) in relation to mitigation of adverse lung cell responses. Cells (epithelial cells, A549; macrophages, THP‐1) were exposed to two different benchtop stone samples, standard silica and vehicle control, followed by RNA sequencing analysis. Bioinformatics analyses were conducted, and the expression of dysregulated AhR pathway genes resulting from engineered stone exposure was then correlated with cytokine responses. Finally, we inhibited AhR pathway in cells pretreated with AhR antagonist and observed how this impacted cell cytotoxicity and inflammation. Through transcriptome analysis, we identified the AhR pathway genes (CYP1A1, CYP1B1 and TIPARP) that showed differential expression that was unique to engineered stones and common between both cell types. The expression of these genes was positively correlated with interleukin‐8 production in A549 and THP‐1 cells. However, we only observed a mild effect of AhR pathway inhibition on engineered stone dust induced cytokine responses. Given the dual roles of AhR pathway in physiological and pathological processes, our data showed that expression of AhR target genes could be markers for assessing toxicity of engineered stones; however, AhR pathway might not play a significant pathologic role in engineered stone‐associated silicosis.
Enhancement of electrical properties by CuS–PVP nanocomposite on the ZnO/polymer heterojunction
Authors: Verma Bandhna , Hmar Jehova Jire L. , Swart H. C. , Kumar Vinay
Published: June 2024

A nanocomposite matrix of covellite–polyvinylpyrrolidone (CuS–PVP) was synthesized through a solution processing method and applied via spin coating onto hydrothermally grown zinc oxide (ZnO) nanorods. Characterization techniques, including X‐ray powder diffraction and scanning electron microscopy, confirmed the successful decoration of chain‐like CuS–PVP polymer composites onto hexagonal ZnO nanorods. The UV‐vis spectroscopy revealed an absorption peak at 372 nm, indicating excitonic absorption of ZnO, and a reduction in the band gap from 3.11 to 2.59 eV upon CuS–PVP polymer decoration, enhancing light harvesting efficiency. Photoluminescence spectra demonstrated the lowest charge carrier recombination rate in the ZnO/CuS–PVP sample, promoting efficient charge separation and transportation, supported by Fourier‐transform infrared analysis indicating chemical bonding. Subsequently, the impact of CuS–PVP as an insertion layer in the ZnO/poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene)‐poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) inorganic–organic heterojunction was investigated. Favorable band alignment between ZnO, CuS–PVP, and PEDOT:PSS improved conduction, increasing current from 0.3394 to 1.14 mA for D2 (poly‐ethyleneterephthalate/Indium tin oxide/ZnO/PEDOT:PSS/Al) and D1 (poly‐ethyleneterephthalate/Indium tin oxide/ZnO/CuS–PVP/PEDOT:PSS/Al) at a +2 V bias. Transient photo‐responses (J–t) at 0 V bias revealed decreased rise and fall times from 0.382 and 1.154 s to 0.301 and 0.229 s for D2 and D1 devices, respectively. This novel approach provides control over charge carrier transport characteristics at the interface, potentially benefiting self‐powered photo‐detection in optoelectronic devices.
Hot and cold executive function among pediatric attention deficit hyperactivity disorder with and without coexisting oppositional defiant disorder
Authors: Kamalahmadi Nasim , Moharrari Fatemeh , Soltanifar Atefeh , Khaniki Saeedeh Hajebi , Mohaddes Hossein , Noorbakhsh Ghazaleh , Salehabadi Razie
Published: June 2024

Background

Executive function is a high‐level set of cognitive processes related to goal‐directed behaviors including two conceptual subtypes of hot (emotional) and cold (cognitive) executive function (to abbreviate EF). EF deficits in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) leads to significant social impairments in the home, school, and community. Today the type and the extent of executive function defects in ADHD are still debated in studies. We aimed to evaluate hot and cold executive function among medication‐naive children with ADHD, with and without oppositional defiant disorder (ODD).

Methods

Forty‐five children including suffering ADHD with ODD (n = 15), without ODD (n = 15), or typically developed (TD, n = 15) participated in this cross‐sectional study (the age of children was between 7 and 12 years old). The Child Symptom Inventory‐4 (CSI‐4) was used to screen behavioral and emotional symptoms. Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale‐Revised‐Digit Span Task (WAIS‐R‐DST), Corsi Block Task (CBT), and Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (WCST) were used for assessing cold executive function. Assessing hot executive function was done with Delay Discounting Task (DDT) and Iowa Gambling Task (IGT).

Results

Evaluating the cold executive function, total WAIS‐R‐DST score, Backward DST, total CBT score, and Backward CBT were significantly lower among ADHD than TD groups (p < 0.05). Assessing the hot executive function showed that the score of DDT and IGT was significantly lower among ADHD than TD groups (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Both hot and cold executive functions are defective in children with ADHD, while the comorbid of ODD has no significant effect. We suggest the clinicians to consider cognitive rehabilitation interventions as a necessary treatment modality for ADHD patients.
Respiratory internal kinematics of the tongue base and soft palate in obese minipigs with obstructive sleep apnea
Authors: Liu Zi‐Jun , Yang Mandee , Deng Meng‐Zhao , Abdelfattah Mohamed Yehia , Baldwin Michael C. , Weaver Edward M.
Published: June 2024

It is largely unknown how the tongue base and soft palate deform to alter the configuration of the oropharyngeal airway during respiration. This study is to address this important gap. After live sleep monitoring of five Yucatan and two Panepinto minipigs to verify obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), eight and four ultrasonic crystals were implanted into the tongue base and soft palate to circumscribe a cubic and square region, respectively. The 3D and 2D deformational changes of the circumscribed regions were measured simultaneously with electromyographic activity of the oropharyngeal muscles during spontaneous respiration under sedated sleep. The results indicated that both obese Yucatan and Panepinto minipigs presented spontaneous OSA, but not in three nonobese Yucatan minipigs. During inspiration, the tongue base showed elongation in both dorsal and ventral regions but thinning and thickening in the anterior and posterior regions, respectively. The widths showed opposite directions, widening in the dorsal but narrowing in the ventral regions. The soft palate expanded in both length and width. Compared to normal controls, obese/OSA ones showed similar directions of deformational changes, but the magnitude of change was two times larger in the tongue base and soft palate, and obese/OSA Panepinto minipigs presented 10 times larger changes in all dimensions of both the tongue base and the soft palate. The distance changes between the dorsal surface of tongue base and soft palate during inspiration increased in normal but decreased in obese OSA minipigs.
“Hireability” prospects for known bystander reporters of sexual harassment: Moral character, agreeableness, and gender effects
Authors: Chen Anjier , Treviño Linda K. , Joshi Aparna , Caligiuri Michael D.
Published: June 2024

Bystander intervention has been promoted across organizations to combat sexual harassment and its deleterious effects. However, the career consequences of bystander reporters (e.g., their hireability prospects inside and outside the organization)—those who report sexual harassment on behalf of coworkers—are not well understood. Based on the social identity and person perception literatures, which suggest that recruiters are motivated to hire candidates with attributes helpful to the organization (perceived moral character and agreeableness), we proposed that candidates' history of reporting sexual harassment on behalf of a victim leads to perceived high moral character but low agreeableness, which subsequently have countervailing effects on hireability of these known reporters. We found support across three experimental studies using realistic hiring decision‐making tasks and various employee samples. Based on the social identity literature, we further argued that perceptions and hireability of the known reporters depend on recruiter and candidate genders. In Study 2 and Study 3, we consistently found that the positive effect of reporting on perceptions of candidate moral character was weaker when the recruiter was male (vs. female) but we found mixed results for candidate gender effects. Theoretical and practical implications of these results are discussed.
Studies on the properties and molecular dynamics simulations of nonionic surfactants based on succinic acid derivatives
Authors: Luo Feng , Zhang Wannian , Yu Fang , Wang Jinlong , He Yu‐Peng
Published: June 2024

Nonionic surfactants have proven useful in various applications such as wastewater treatment, enhanced oil recovery, dyeing, and cosmetics. Novel nonionic surfactants such as PEMP, BEMP, HEMP and BEEP were synthesized based on succinic acid derivatives and using L‐isoleucine as the linking group and four polyether alcohols as the hydrophilic group. First, the structures of the four nonionic surfactants were studied using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectra. Then the critical micelle concentration (CMC) and surface tension at CMC (γCMC) of the four nonionic surfactants in aqueous solution were tested. γ‐lg c curves determined the relationships of their surface properties as BEEP > PEMP > BEMP > HEMP. In order to expand the range of applications for nonionic surfactants, we evaluated the salt‐resistant properties of four such surfactants. Our findings demonstrated that this class of surfactants indeed has superior salt‐resistant properties. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations were used to study how surfactant molecules aggregate in the interfacial film. The study investigated the trend of solvent accessible surface area (SASA) over time. Results showed that the surfactant molecules interacted well with solvent molecules in the equilibrium state. This study investigates the performance differences among four types of surfactants using the electrostatic potential (ESP) distribution of their molecules. The study employed both experimental and computational simulations to provide a more comprehensive understanding of surfactant properties. The results offer insights into the theoretical research and application extension of this class of surfactants.
A functional approach to defining and repairing moral injury: Evidence, change agents, clinical strategies, and lessons learned
Authors: Litz Brett T.
Published: June 2024

This is a conceptual overview of a premeeting institute (PMI) I presented at the 39th International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies (ISTSS) annual meeting in November 2023 entitled, “A Functional Approach to Repairing Moral Injury and Traumatic Loss in Context: Evidence, Change Agents, Clinical Strategies, and Lessons Learned.” This paper was invited by the co‐chairs of the Scientific Program Committee, Isaac Galatzer‐Levy and Katharina Schultebraucks. I first describe the aims of the PMI and then summarize the foundational assumptions that led me to expand adaptive disclosure and create adaptive disclosure–enhanced (AD‐E). The foundational assumptions are that (a) moral injury is a unique measurable potential clinical problem, (b) moral injury damages the sustaining building blocks to personal and collective humanity, and (c) repairing moral injury requires corrective humanizing and virtuous experiences and connections. I then provide an overview of AD‐E and describe two new change agents— loving–kindness meditation and letter writing—that augment the original AD in service of promoting corrective experiences in the social world that are valued, valuing, and promote the experience of belonging.
Long‐term follow‐up and prognostic analysis of parotid tumors in children and adolescents
Authors: Liu Lei , Xiang Yuqing , Shui Chunyan , Li Chao , Xiong Lujing , Hu Jinchuan , Ai Hao , Zhou Yuqiu , Jiang Jian , Cai Yongcong
Published: June 2024

Objectives

The objective of this study is to summarize the clinical characteristics, treatment, and prognosis of parotid tumors in children and adolescents.

Methods

Fifty‐three children and adolescents diagnosed with parotid gland tumors were included. Survival was evaluated using the Kaplan–Meier method. Log‐rank test and multivariate analysis were used to analyze the association between clinical factors and recurrence.

Results

Of the 53 patients, 30 cases were benign and 23 cases were malignant. All patients underwent surgery. Patients with malignant tumors with high‐risk factors received radiotherapy or chemotherapy. The median follow‐up time was 61 months. Of these, 1 patient with benign tumor and 5 patients with malignant tumors recurred. Of the patients with malignant tumors, 2 developed distant metastases and 2 died. The 5‐year overall survival (OS) and 5‐year locoregional recurrence‐free survival (LRFS) rates for benign tumors were 100.0% and 92.9%, respectively, whereas the 5‐year OS and 5‐year LRFS rates for malignant tumors were 94.4% and 72.5%, respectively. The log‐rank univariate test showed that tumor size >3.5 cm (p = .056), distant metastasis (p = .056), and stage III and IV (p = .032) were associated with recurrence. However, multivariate analysis did not show the above factors to be independent prognostic factors for LRFS.

Conclusion

Surgery for benign tumors depends on the location and size. Surgery for malignant parotid tumors depends mainly on the stage, grade, pathological type, and recurrence. Prophylactic lymph node dissection is required for high‐grade tumors. Radiotherapy or chemotherapy for children needs more research. Both benign and malignant tumors have high survival rates after active treatment.

Level of evidence

Level 2.
Long‐term outcomes following impedance‐controlled radiofrequency ablation for the treatment of chronic rhinitis
Authors: Reh Douglas D. , Lay Kristopher , Davis Greg , Dubin Marc G. , Yen David M. , O'Malley Ellen M. , Sillers Michael
Published: June 2024

Objective

To assess long‐term safety and effectiveness of a multipoint, impedance‐controlled, RF ablation device for treatment of chronic rhinitis through 12‐month follow‐up.

Methods

A prospective, multicenter study. Bilateral posterior nasal nerve (PNN) ablation was performed on all participants. Assessments at 6‐, 9‐, and 12‐month visits included Visual Analog Scale Nasal Symptom Score (VAS NSS), reflective Total Nasal Symptom Score (rTNSS), mini‐Rhinoconjunctivitis Quality of Life Questionnaire (mini RQLQ), and adverse events.

Results

Thirty‐six participants were enrolled and 35 completed the 12‐month follow‐up. All 5 VAS NSS items demonstrated statistically significant improvement (p < .0001) over baseline at all 3 time points. The total rTNSS improved from 7.9 ± 1.8 at baseline to 4.3 ± 2.1 at 6‐months, 3.8 ± 2.4 at 9‐months, and 4.0 ± 2.1 at 12‐months (all p < .0001). At 12‐months, 91% (31/35) of participants had achieved the minimum clinically important difference (MCID) of a reduction from baseline of ≥1 point and 80% (28/35) of the participants met the responder criteria of ≥30% reduction from baseline. The total mean mini RQLQ was reduced from 3.0 ± 1.0 at baseline to 1.4 ± 0.8 at 6‐months, 1.4 ± 1.0 at 9‐months, and 1.3 ± 0.8 at 12‐months (all p < .0001). At 12‐months, 86% (30/35) of participants achieved the MCID of a reduction from baseline of ≥0.4 points for the mini RQLQ. No related serious adverse events occurred during the study.

Conclusions

Impedance‐controlled RF ablation of the PNN is safe and resulted in durable, significant improvement in rhinitis symptoms and quality of life through 12‐month follow‐up.

Trial Registration

The study is registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov with the unique identifier of NCT05324397.

Level of Evidence

4.
Efficient Electrical Extraction of Nonlinear Response and Large Linear Dynamic Range Implementation in MoS2/BaTiO3 Hetero‐Integrated Photodetector
Authors: Guan Heyuan , Liu Fengli , He Zhigang , Xie Hanrong , Xie Manyan , Fang Ziliang , Yang Mingxu , Chen Bingyu , Liang Xijie , Li Fang , Wei Yuming , Yang Tiefeng , Lu Huihui
Published: June 2024

Conventional photodetectors overly pursue high light‐to‐electric conversion efficiency under weak light stimulation, while disregarding the saturated absorption‐induced blinding effect upon strong light, and achieving efficient photodetection covering a large power range remains a great challenge. In this work, MoS2/BaTiO3 heterostructures are constructed through a low‐cost exfoliation and transfer method combined with spin‐coating. The photoresponse behaviors before and after assembling the BaTiO3 nanoparticles onto the MoS2 nanoflake are investigated, indicating that the high conductivity of MoS2 and ferroelectricity of BaTiO3 can complement each other to improve the photoresponse of the hetero‐integrated device, acquiring a high photoresponsivity of 17402 A W−1 under 0.2 nW irradiation, and a significant 570 µA photocurrent under 8 mW irradiation, realizing a large linear dynamic range index of 152 dB, which is at the top level among layered semiconductor‐based detectors. Moreover, strong power near‐infrared light can be up‐converted to the visible band through the nonlinear effect of BaTiO3, subsequently absorbed by the MoS2 and contributing to the photocurrent, providing a solution to combat and alleviate the saturated absorption issue in photodetection. This work marks a significant advancement in achieving robust high‐performance photodetection by hetero‐integrating 2D materials with ferroelectrics.
Physical Modifications of Kombucha‐Derived Bacterial Nanocellulose: Toward a Functional Bionanocomposite Platform
Authors: Imanbekova Meruyert , Abbasi Reza , Hu Xinyue , Sharma Mohul , Vandewynckele‐Bossut Marion , Haldavnekar Rupa , Wachsmann‐Hogiu Sebastian
Published: June 2024

Sustainable functionalization of bacterial cellulose for cost‐effective bionanocomposites with desired properties has received growing attention in recent years. This article presents the results of work aimed at obtaining bionanocomposite materials based on bacterial cellulose, a natural and eco‐friendly material. Bacterial cellulose obtained from the Kombucha symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast (SCOBY) fermentation process is functionalized by embedding with diatom frustules, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), and poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene):polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS). The effects of functionalization on mechanical, optical, plasmonic, electrical, chemiluminescent, and antimicrobial properties are evaluated. Morphological characteristics of the nanocomposites are studied using electron microscopy. Addition of diatom frustules introduced into the SCOBY culture media results in bionanocomposite materials with enhanced tensile strength and increased ultraviolet (UV) blockage properties. In situ functionalization of bacterial cellulose with AgNPs tunes plasmonic and chemiluminescent properties, revealing the biosensing potential of the material. Modified bacterial cellulose shows antimicrobial activity in experiments with gram‐positive and gram‐negative bacteria. Dual functionalization of bacterial cellulose with PEDOT:PSS and AgNPs results in improved electrical conductivity of the bionanocomposite. Overall, bottom‐up physical functionalization approaches and the resulting bionanocomposite materials will open up new opportunities for the low‐cost production of green materials and contribute to the development of a sustainable economy.
2D Porphyrin‐Based Covalent–Organic Framework/PEG Composites: A Rational Strategy for Photocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Yao Chan , Wang Shuhao , Zha Yixuan , Xu Yanhong
Published: June 2024

Two‐dimensional porphyrin‐based covalent–organic frameworks (2D‐por‐COFs) have gained significant attention as attractive platforms for efficient solar light conversion into hydrogen production. Herein, it is found that introducing transition metal zinc and polyethylene glycol (PEG) into 2D‐por‐COFs can effectively improve the photocatalytic hydrogen evolution performance. The photocatalytic hydrogen evolution rate of ZnPor‐COF is 2.82 times higher than that of H2Por‐COF. Moreover, ZnPor‐COF@PEG has the highest photocatalytic hydrogen evolution efficiency, which is 1.31 and 3.7 times that of pristine ZnPor‐COF and H2Por‐COF, respectively. The filling of PEG makes the layered structure of COFs more stable. PEG reduces the distortion and deformation of the carbon skeleton after the experiment of photocatalytic hydrogen evolution. The layered stacking and crystallization of 2D‐por‐COFs are also enhanced. Meanwhile, the presence of PEG also accelerates the transfer of excited electrons and enhances the photocatalytic hydrogen evolution activity. This strategy will provide valuable insights into the design of 2D‐por‐COFs as efficient solid photocatalysts for solar‐driven hydrogen production.
On the optimal design of peer monitoring systems in capital budgeting
Authors: Meder Anthony A. , Nikias Anthony D. , Schwartz Steven T. , Young Richard A.
Published: June 2024

This paper considers peer monitoring in a capital budgeting setting with information asymmetry between principal and agents. The paper demonstrates in a two‐agent, two‐project setting that the principal can have each agent reveal their private information on the other agent's project, at an arbitrarily low cost. Next, an examination of monitoring resource allocations is made. Specifically, a comparison is made of broad monitoring, which spreads monitoring resources equally across agents' projects, and focused monitoring, which applies all monitoring resources to a single agent's project. Focused monitoring is preferred within an intermediate range of profitability, above which broad monitoring is preferred and below which neither is preferred. If project profitability is heterogeneous and focused monitoring is preferred, the more profitable project receives the focus. Both of these results occur because there is a threshold of monitoring resources that must be deployed for monitoring to provide any benefit, and the threshold is higher (more resources must be deployed) for lower profitability projects. That is, even if all monitoring resources are devoted to a low profitability project, they may provide no benefit to the principal. A discussion of how peer monitoring can be engineered by the firm is included.
Design of millimeter wave broadband polarization reconfigurable horn antenna based on elliptical waveguide polarizer
Authors: Quan Shuanglong , Cao Jianyin , He Chao , Wang Yan , Wang Hao
Published: June 2024

A broadband polarized reconfigurable horn antenna for K‐band and Ka‐band is designed using a circular polarizer in the form of an elliptical waveguide and a circular waveguide flange based on a gap structure. The designed noncontact circular waveguide flange with gap structure can switch the antenna excitation signal to different modes of electromagnetic waves by mechanical rotation. When excited by different modes of electromagnetic waves, the designed elliptical waveguide circular polarizer can switch between linear polarization, left‐handed circular polarization, and right‐handed circular polarization. The antenna is analyzed in principle, modeled and simulated, and processed by three‐dimensional printing process. The measured results show that S11 ≤ −15dB, axial ratio ≤ 3 dB, gain ≥14 dBi in 37.8% relative bandwidth range (22.5–33 GHz). The proposed antenna is broadband, multipolar, and reconfigurable, which makes it have broad application prospects in the field of satellite communication and millimeter‐wave communication.
Design of a scalable microfiber optic temperature transmitter based on fluorescence lifetime
Authors: Shen Xuchao , Zhang Enlong , Jia Zikun , Wang Chenyng , Zhang Zhaoyan , Zhou Ning , Liu Xiuling , Lou Cunguang
Published: June 2024

To facilitate temperature detection in industrial production settings, an optical fiber temperature transmitter was developed utilizing fluorescence lifetime as its basis. Comprising an upper computer, fiber optic temperature transmitter, and optical fiber probe, the system incorporates a scalable fluorescence detection module. Real‐time temperature calculation is achieved through a microcontroller based on the fluorescence lifetime, with results transmitted to the upper computer, the optical fiber sensor exhibits a resolution of 0.01°C and an accuracy of ±0.3°C.
X‐band high isolation single pole double throw switch based on resonant concept
Authors: Zhang Yi , Zhou Yingjie , Lu Xinmin , Yang Lei , Zhang Changchun , Guo Yufeng
Published: June 2024

Utilizing the 0.25 μm GaN HEMT process, a high‐isolation single pole double throw (SPDT) RF switch has been meticulously designed for the X‐band. The circuit topology employs a series‐shunt configuration to prevent signal leakage, thereby enhancing chip isolation. By incorporating series transistors and shunt inductors, LC resonance is achieved, significantly boosting isolation performance. To optimize port matching and ensure both heightened isolation and minimized insertion loss, inductors are strategically integrated into each port. The inclusion of these lumped inductors contributes significantly to reducing the chip's footprint. Die measurement results demonstrate that across the 8–12 GHz frequency spectrum, insertion loss remains below 1.1 dB, with isolation exceeding 36 dB. Remarkably, at 10.5 GHz, isolation peaks at an impressive 52 dB. Moreover, return loss surpasses 12 dB, and the 0.1 dB compression point input power stands at 43.5 dBm, all achieved within a compact chip area of only 1 mm2.
Preoperative lifestyle modifications combined with a structured exercise protocol on patient outcomes following total knee replacement surgery: A systematic review
Authors: Kan A. , Page K. , Devine N. , Rabajoli A. , Sattler L.
Published: June 2024

Background

Medical guidelines recommend structured prehabilitation protocols consisting of lifestyle modifications and exercise to enhance post‐operative outcomes for patients undergoing a total knee replacement (TKR). However, current research showing effectiveness is limited and has primarily focused on outcomes of exercise‐based prehabilitation.

Objectives

To investigate whether a structured prehabilitation protocol consisting of exercise and lifestyle modifications improves physical function and patient‐reported outcomes following TKR surgery compared with usual care.

Design

Systematic review.

Methods

Five databases were searched to identify randomised controlled trials comparing structured prehabilitation programs consisting of lifestyle modifications and exercise, with usual care, for those undergoing a TKR. Methodological quality of included studies was assessed via the RoB 2.0 tool and results synthesis via a Grading of Recommendation Assessment, Development and Evaluation approach was performed to determine the certainty evidence for each outcome.

Results/findings

Four studies were included in this review. Despite a positive trend supporting the inclusion of a structured prehabilitation protocol, additional improvements in post‐operative pain, physical function and self‐reported function were only seen in one study. Reductions in hospital length of stay were also seen in one study. No additional improvements in post‐operative quality of life following prehabilitation were reported.

Conclusion

Limited evidence supporting prehabilitation reported in our review is likely attributed to the intervention type, intensity, and delivery model of included studies. However, there remains to be strong evidence supporting the use of a structured prehabilitation protocol consisting of lifestyle modifications and exercise to improve post‐operative outcome.
Space–time finite element method with domain reduction techniques for dynamic soil–structure interaction problems
Authors: Sharma Vikas , Shimizu Shion , Fujisawa Kazunori
Published: June 2024

Design of earth structures, such as dams, tunnels, and embankments, against the vibrational loading caused by high‐speed trains, road traffic, underground explosions, and, more importantly, earthquake motion, demands solutions of the dynamic soil–structure Interaction (SSI) problem. This paper presents a velocity‐based space–time finite element procedure, v‐ST/finite element method (FEM), to solve dynamic SSI problems. The main goal of this study is to present the computation details of implementing viscous boundary conditions of Lysmer–Kuhlemeyer to truncate the unbounded soil domain. Furthermore, additional time‐dependent boundary conditions, in terms of the free‐field response, are included to facilitate energy flow from the far field to the computation domain at the vertical truncated boundaries. In the FEM, seismic input motion is applied to an effective nodal force vector, which can be obtained explicitly in the numerical simulations. Finally, the response of a concrete gravity dam resting on an elastic half‐space to the horizontal component of earthquake motion is computed and successfully compared with the results of semidiscrete FEM using the Newmark‐ method.