bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Towards Energy‐Efficient Direct Air Capture with Photochemically‐Driven CO2 Release and Solvent Regeneration
Authors: Premadasa Uvinduni I. , Doughty Benjamin , Custelcean Radu , Ma Ying‐Zhong
Published: March 2024

The intensive energy demands associated with solvent regeneration and CO2 release in current direct air capture (DAC) technologies makes their deployment at the massive scales (GtCO2/year) required to positively impact the climate economically unfeasible. This challenge underscores the critical need to develop new DAC processes with significantly reduced energy costs. Recently, we developed a new approach to photochemically drive efficient release of CO2 through an intermolecular proton transfer reaction by exploiting the unique properties of an indazole metastable‐state photoacid (mPAH), opening a new avenue towards energy efficient on‐demand CO2 release and solvent regeneration using abundant solar energy instead of heat. In this Concept Article, we will describe the principle of our photochemically‐driven CO2 release approach for solvent‐based DAC systems, discuss the essential prerequisites and conditions to realize this cyclable CO2 release chemistry under ambient conditions. We outline the key findings of our approach, discuss the latest developments from other research laboratories, detail approaches used to monitor DAC systems in situ, and highlight experimental procedures for validating its feasibility. We conclude with a summary and outlook into the immediate challenges that must be addressed in order to fully exploit this novel photochemically‐driven approach to DAC solvent regeneration.
Toward the right treatment at the right time: Modeling the trajectory of cognitive decline to identify the earliest age of change in people with Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Baksh R. Asaad , Strydom André , Carter Ben , Carriere Isabelle , Ritchie Karen
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Age is the greatest risk factor for Alzheimer's disease (AD). A limitation of randomized control trials in AD is a lack of specificity in the age ranges of participants who are enrolled in studies of disease‐modifying therapies. We aimed to apply Emax (i.e., maximum effect) modeling as a novel approach to identity ideal treatment windows.

Methods

Emax curves were fitted to longitudinal cognitive data of 101 participants with AD and 1392 healthy controls. We included the Mini‐Mental State Examination (MMSE) and tests of verbal fluency and executive functioning.

Results

In people with AD, the earliest decline in the MMSE could be detected in the 67–71 age band while verbal fluency declined from the 41–45 age band. In healthy controls, changes in cognition showed a later trajectory of decline.

Discussion

Emax modeling could be used to design more efficient trials which has implications for randomized control trials targeting the earlier stages of AD.
Molecular mechanisms of differentiation and class choice of olfactory sensory neurons
Authors: Hirota Junji
Published: March 2024

The sense of smell is intricately linked to essential animal behaviors necessary for individual survival and species preservation. During vertebrate evolution, odorant receptors (ORs), responsible for detecting odor molecules, have evolved to adapt to changing environments, transitioning from aquatic to terrestrial habitats and accommodating increasing complex chemical environments. These evolutionary pressures have given rise to the largest gene family in vertebrate genomes. Vertebrate ORs are phylogenetically divided into two major classes; class I and class II. Class I OR genes, initially identified in fish and frog, have persisted across vertebrate species. On the other hand, class II OR genes are unique to terrestrial animals, accounting for ~90% of mammalian OR genes. In mice, each olfactory sensory neuron (OSN) expresses a single functional allele of a single OR gene from either the class I or class II OR repertoire. This one neuron‐one receptor rule is established through two sequential steps: specification of OR class and subsequent exclusive OR expression from the corresponding OR class. Consequently, OSNs acquire diverse neuronal identities during the process of OSN differentiation, enabling animals to detect a wide array of odor molecules. This review provides an overview of the OSN differentiation process through which OSN diversity is achieved, primarily using the mouse as a model animal.
Isochrony in barks of Cape fur seal (Arctocephalus pusillus pusillus) pups and adults
Authors: Osiecka Anna N. , Fearey Jack , Ravignani Andrea , Burchardt Lara S.
Published: March 2024

Animal vocal communication often relies on call sequences. The temporal patterns of such sequences can be adjusted to other callers, follow complex rhythmic structures or exhibit a metronome‐like pattern (i.e., isochronous). How regular are the temporal patterns in animal signals, and what influences their precision? If present, are rhythms already there early in ontogeny? Here, we describe an exploratory study of Cape fur seal (Arctocephalus pusillus pusillus) barks—a vocalisation type produced across many pinniped species in rhythmic, percussive bouts. This study is the first quantitative description of barking in Cape fur seal pups. We analysed the rhythmic structures of spontaneous barking bouts of pups and adult females from the breeding colony in Cape Cross, Namibia. Barks of adult females exhibited isochrony, that is they were produced at fairly regular points in time. Instead, intervals between pup barks were more variable, that is skipping a bark in the isochronous series occasionally. In both age classes, beat precision, that is how well the barks followed a perfect template, was worse when barking at higher rates. Differences could be explained by physiological factors, such as respiration or arousal. Whether, and how, isochrony develops in this species remains an open question. This study provides evidence towards a rhythmic production of barks in Cape fur seal pups and lays the groundwork for future studies to investigate the development of rhythm using multidimensional metrics.
Width undulation drives flow convergence routing in five flashy ephemeral river types across a dry summer subtropical region
Authors: Nogueira Xavier R. , Pasternack Gregory B. , Lane Belize A. , Sandoval‐Solis Samuel
Published: March 2024

During the last decade, meter‐resolution topo‐bathymetric digital elevation models (DEMs) have become increasingly utilized within fluvial geomorphology, but most meter‐scale geomorphic analyses are done on just one to a few rivers. While such analyses have contributed greatly to our collective understanding of river discharge‐topography interactions, which is applicable in both river restoration design and environmental flow regulation contexts, their generalizability across a range of river types remains largely unevaluated. This study assessed the dominance of a single hydro‐morphodynamic mechanism, flow convergence routing, in 35 ephemeral rivers divided among five river types in California's South Coast region by answering five questions. Geomorphic covariance structure (GCS) analysis was performed on longitudinal standardized width and standardized, detrended bed elevation spatial series from meter‐resolution DEMs. All river types had coherent, multi‐scalar structures of longitudinal fluvial topography, implicating a process‐morphology link. GCS metrics revealed that landform patterning was consistent with the requirements of the morphodynamic mechanism of flow convergence routing. Thus, that process was found to be a broadly relevant channel altering mechanism among sites, but its relationship with water stage differed between river types. Specifically, river types in unconfined valleys exhibited a strong bankfull width control over base flow bed undulations, with no obvious flood‐stage control over bankfull landform patterning. River types in partially confined valleys also exhibited strong bankfull width control over base flow bed undulations, but their bankfull landform patterns appear to have coalesced with coherent width and bed elevation undulations during flood flows. Finally, metrics for confined river types showed that it takes higher magnitude, less frequent floods to set their coherent width and bed elevation undulations, but even these channels do exhibit flow convergence routing when given enough discharge for sufficient duration.
Can intraday data improve the joint estimation and prediction of risk measures? Evidence from a variety of realized measures
Authors: Wu Zhimin , Cai Guanghui
Published: March 2024

In recent years, the semiparametric methods for the joint estimation and prediction of value at risk (VaR) and expected shortfall (ES) have triggered great interests and attention. Compared to existing literature which usually incorporates realized volatility (RV) into the dynamic semiparametric risk models, this paper considers three more robust proxies (medRV, BPV, and RK) of intraday volatility in the models to verify whether high‐frequency information can improve the joint prediction ability of risk measures. To strengthen the persuasion of conclusions, four international stock indices (S&P500, Nikkei225, GDAXI, and DJIA) are applied to these models to estimate and forecast VaR and ES at different probability levels (1%, 2.5%, 5%, and 10%). Then, the predicted VaR and ES are backtested by several methods individually, and the popular score function FZ0 and MCS test are used to compare the effects of jointly predicting risk measures. Our results confirm that these semiparametric models containing intraday information outperform the benchmark models for four stocks and various probability levels, and medRV is the best volatility measure in improving the effects of models.
Associations between nutritional deficiencies and food insecurity among adolescent girls: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Basiry Mursal , Surkan Pamela J. , Ghosn Batoul , Esmaillzadeh Ahmad , Azadbakht Leila
Published: March 2024

There is a research gap in understanding the relationship between nutrient deficiency and food insecurity among adolescent girls in Afghanistan. The objective of this study was to investigate the associations between nutrient deficiencies and food insecurity among middle and high school‐aged girls in Kabul. We conducted a cross‐sectional study of 380 randomly selected 11–18‐year‐old girls attending public schools in grades 6–12. We assessed girls' food insecurity, food and nutrient intake, socioeconomic status, and physical activity. Nutrient consumption was calculated using Nutritionist IV software. Statistical analyses, including one‐way analysis of variance, Chi‐square tests, and t‐tests, were used to assess the association between dietary intake and food insecurity. More than half (52.9%) of the participants were food insecure, with 35.8% experiencing hunger and 17.1% without hunger. Vitamin B3, C, selenium, and iron had the highest sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy and were the best indicators of food insecurity with and without hunger. The most prevalent nutrient deficiencies were vitamin B9 and E, calcium, magnesium, and zinc inadequacies. Food security was positively associated with fruit, vitamins E and K, dairy products (e.g., milk, yogurt, and cheese), meat products (e.g., chicken, meat, red meat, and egg), and nut intake. Our findings suggest that adolescent girls in Kabul may benefit from food programs that enrich nutrients such as B9 and E, calcium, magnesium, and zinc, which were found to be the most prevalent nutrient deficiencies. These findings highlight the importance of addressing food insecurity and nutrient deficiencies among adolescent girls in Afghanistan.
The effects of using sheep tail fat and cooking time on carboxymethyl‐lysine formation and some quality characteristics of heat‐treated sucuk
Authors: Anlar Pınar , Kaban Güzin
Published: March 2024

The study's aim was to determine the effect of using sheep tail fat (STF) on carboxymethyl‐lysine (CML) content and other properties of heat‐treated sucuk (HTS), a type of semi‐dry fermented sausage. Three mixtures were prepared: 100% beef fat (BF), 50% BF + 50% STF, and 100% STF. After production (fermentation, heat treatment, and drying), the samples were cooked at 180°C for 0, 1, 3, and 5 min to determine the effect of cooking time on CML, thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS), total sulfhydryl, and carbonyl contents. The lowest pH value (5.50) was observed in the presence of STF. The most oleic acid (46.02%) was observed in the 100% STF group. The score of taste and general acceptability decreased with increasing STF. Using STF had no significant effect on TBARS, total sulfhydryl, carbonyl, or CML content. These parameters were affected by cooking time. The mean CML content increased from 55.77 to 72.90 μg/g after 5 min of cooking. CML correlated more strongly with TBARS than sulfhydryl or carbonyl.
Chronology of Upper Paleolithic human activities recorded in a stalagmite at Points Cave (Aiguèze, Gard, France)
Authors: Richard Maïlys , Pons‐Branchu Edwige , Valladas Hélène , Toffolo Michael B. , Dubernet Stéphan , Dapoigny Arnaud , Dumoulin Jean‐Pascal , Beauvais Pierre‐Antoine , Monney Julien
Published: March 2024

In this article, we propose an approach to reconstruct the timing of human activity at Points Cave, an Upper Paleolithic rock art site located in the middle of the Ardèche River Gorge (Rhône valley, France), based on the dating and characterisation of a stalagmite containing soot. Points Cave (‘Grotte aux Points’ in French), also called the ‘little sister of Chauvet Cave’, is famous for its parietal art including a series of dots made of palm prints. A large number of stalagmites formed in the cave during the last 500 ka. However, quarrying of the cave floors during historic times led to the partial destruction of the sedimentary deposits, and many of the stalagmites were found lying on the floor. In particular, one of them (STM‐18‐04) showed the presence of at least four dark layers in cross‐section, which appeared as possible remnants of fire‐related activities in the cave. Despite being present at the same site, no other specific link between STM‐18‐04 and the rock art has been documented. This stalagmite, however, allows us to identify phases of human presence, located at the cave entrance. To do so, we performed a series of analyses to determine its period of growth and the nature of the dark layers that it contains. Scanning electron microscopy and Raman microspectroscopy confirmed that the dark layers include soot, and uranium‐series dating indicated that the fire events occurred, respectively, around 14,200–14,100 and 12,500 years ago, in agreement with the radiocarbon ages of charcoal specimens recovered from the excavation areas nearby. We thus highlighted phases of human activity at the site during the Upper Magdalenian and/or beginning of the Epipaleolithic. By comparing our results with the regional paleoclimatic record, the soot layers trapped in the stalagmite appear to be synchronous with two cold periods, likely the Older Dryas and the Younger Dryas.
Differential cognitive correlates in processing symbolic and situational mathematics
Authors: Cui Jiaxin , Yang Fan , Peng Yuanyi , Wang Saisai , Zhou Xinlin
Published: March 2024

Symbolic and situational mathematics are the two major representations of mathematical knowledge. Although previous literature has studied the relationship between the two from the perspective of teaching practice, learning effectiveness and behavioural performance, there is still a lack of empirical psychological research on cognitive mechanisms to explore the psychological processes of the two. The current study investigated the relationship between symbolic and situational mathematics by determining the differences in cognitive correlates between the two in fourth‐grade children. Their symbolic and situational mathematics abilities were assessed using symbolic and situational enumeration tests under the same conditions. Several types of general cognitive abilities, language processing and academic achievements were also examined. Results showed that both situational and symbolic mathematics are crucial for mathematical achievement. Arithmetic computation is closely correlated with symbolic mathematics, whereas spatial processing and inductive reasoning ability are uniquely correlated with situational mathematics. The results suggest that situational and symbolic mathematics have separate cognitive correlates, which means the two are distinct in terms of psychological processing.
Group concerns and communication and cooperation between practitioners under the European Insolvency Regulation (Part II)
Authors: Pepels Sid
Published: March 2024

In this article, the author examines with a specific focus on the insolvency practitioner to what extent the Recast European Insolvency Regulation's provisions on communication, cooperation and coordination between the main actors in group companies' insolvency proceedings allow for efficient restructurings of those group companies. In doing so, the author will, at points, compare the provisions in Chapter V of the Recast European Insolvency Regulation to—and draw inspiration from—the German provisions on groups of companies that were adopted into the German Insolvency Act (Insolvenzordnung) and the United Nations Commission on International Trade Law's Model Law on Enterprise Group Insolvency. The author also aims to outline, among other things, the various forms of (cross‐border) communication, cooperation and coordination that the Recast European Insolvency Regulation obligates insolvency practitioners of groups of companies to engage in, how they should implement those forms of ‘CoCo’ and what would happen if they neglect to comply with those obligations. This article is Part II of a diptych on this topic; Part I was published in an earlier issue of this journal.
Stage at diagnosis of colorectal cancer in the Middle East and Northern Africa: A population‐based cancer registry study
Authors: Znaor Ariana , Eser Sultan , Bendahhou Karima , Shelpai Wael , Al Lawati Najla , ELBasmi Amani , Alemayehu Elias Mamo , Tazi Mohammed Adnane , Yakut Cankut , Piñeros Marion
Published: March 2024

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the 2nd most common cancer and 3rd most common cause of death in the Middle East and Northern Africa (MENA) region. We aimed to explore CRC stage at diagnosis data from population‐based cancer registries in MENA countries. In 2021, we launched a Global Initiative for Cancer Registry Development (GICR) survey on staging practices and breast and CRC stage distributions in MENA. According to the survey results, population‐based data on TNM stage for CRC were available from six registries in five countries (Kuwait, Morocco, Oman, Türkiye, UAE). The proportion of cases with unknown TNM stage ranged from 14% in Oman to 47% in Casablanca, Morocco. The distribution of CRC cases with known stage showed TNM stage IV proportions of 26–45%, while the proportions of stage I cancers were lowest in Morocco (≤7%), and highest (19%) in Izmir, Türkiye. Summary extent of disease data was available from six additional registries and four additional countries (Algeria, Bahrain, Iraq, Qatar). In summary, the proportions of CRC diagnosed with distant metastases in Oman, Bahrain and UAE were lower than other MENA countries in our study, but higher than in European and the US populations. Harmonising the use of staging systems and focusing stage data collection efforts on major cancers, such as CRC, is needed to monitor and evaluate progress in CRC control in the region.
Social competencies of children with disinhibited social engagement disorder: A systematic review
Authors: Davidson Claire , Islam Shahela , Venturini Enrico , Lowit Anja , Gillberg Christopher , Minnis Helen
Published: March 2024

Background

Children with Disinhibited Social Engagement Disorder (DSED) have specific difficulties with indiscriminate sociability, yet little is known about their broader social competencies as DSED tends not to be identified within samples in the wider ‘maltreatment literature.’

Aim

To systematically review the literature to determine the social competencies of children with DSED.

Methods

A comprehensive search following PRISMA guidelines was undertaken using PsycINFO, Medline, Embase, and Cumulative Index to Nursing & Allied Health.

Results

From a total of 553 articles, 16 studies were selected and critically evaluated. Children with DSED were consistently reported to have poorer social competencies than non‐maltreated peers and environmental controls. Greater peer problems were consistently found, and they may present with poor self‐esteem/concept related to social acceptance. Findings regarding social interaction/communication skills were mixed.

Limitations

50% of studies were of moderate quality due to sampling and possible confounding variables.

Conclusion

Children with DSED present with social relationship problems, beyond the core symptoms of the disorder, but the relative impact of co‐occurring neurodevelopmental conditions is not yet clear. In addition, pragmatic language and communication skills require further research.
Cover Image
Authors: Guo Qianwan , Cui Bo , Yuan Chao , Guo Li , Li Zhao , Chai Qingqing , Wang Na , Gänzle Michael , Zhao Meng
Published: March 2024

The cover image is based on the Research Article Fabrication of dry S/O/W microcapsule and its probiotic protection against different stresses by Qianwan Guo et al., https://doi.org/10.1002/jsfa.13175.

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Unlocking the potential of olive residues for functional purposes: update on human intervention trials with health and cosmetic products
Authors: Laveriano‐Santos Emily P , Vallverdú‐Queralt Anna , Bhat Rajeev , Tresserra‐Rimbau Anna , Gutiérrez‐Alcalde Eulàlia , Campins‐Machado Francesc M , Lamuela‐Raventós Rosa M , Pérez Maria
Published: March 2024

Olive mill waste (OMW) is a promising source of valuable compounds such as polyphenols, terpenes, sterols, and other bioactive compounds, which are of interest to the pharmaceuticals and cosmeceutical industries. This review examines the potential of OMW extracts for health and beauty applications based on evidence reports from human clinical trials. The results achieved to date indicate health‐enhancing properties, but little is known about the underlying mechanisms of action, dose–response relationships, and long‐term impacts. Therefore, while olive by‐products, extracted using eco‐friendly methods, present opportunities for the development of high‐value health and cosmetic products, further studies are necessary to determine the full range of their effects and establish specific therapeutic strategies. © 2024 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Valgus malalignment causes increased forces on a medial collateral ligament reconstruction under dynamic valgus loading: A biomechanical study
Authors: Peez Christian , Deichsel Adrian , Zderic Ivan , Richards R. Geoff , Gueorguiev Boyko , Kittl Christoph , Raschke Michael J. , Herbst Elmar
Published: March 2024

Purpose

To investigate the forces on a medial collateral ligament (MCL) reconstruction (MCLR) relative to the valgus alignment of the knee.

Methods

Eight fresh‐frozen human cadaveric knees were subjected to dynamic valgus loading at 400 N using a custom‐made kinematics rig. After resection of the superficial medial collateral ligament, a single‐bundle MCLR with a hamstring tendon autograft was performed. A medial opening wedge distal femoral osteotomy was performed and fixed with an external fixator to gradually adjust the alignment in 5° increments from 0° to 10° valgus. For each degree of valgus deformity, the resulting forces acting on the MCLR were measured through a force sensor and captured in 15° increments from 0° to 60° of knee flexion.

Results

Irrespective of the degree of knee flexion, increasing valgus malalignment resulted in significantly increased forces acting on the MCLR compared to neutral alignment (p < 0.05). Dynamic loading at 5° valgus resulted in increased forces on the MCLR at all flexion angles ranging between 16.2 N and 18.5 N (p < 0.05 from 0° to 30°; p < 0.01 from 45° to 60°). A 10° valgus malalignment further increased the forces on the MCLR at all flexion angles ranging between 29.4 N and 40.0 N (p < 0.01 from 0° to 45°, p < 0.05 at 60°).

Conclusion

Valgus malalignment of the knee caused increased forces acting on the reconstructed MCL. In cases of chronic medial instabilities accompanied by a valgus deformity ≥ 5°, a realigning osteotomy should be considered concomitantly to the MCLR to protect the graft and potentially reduce graft failures.

Level of Evidence

Level III.
Anterior knee laxity is greater in athletic females who attain menarche at a younger age
Authors: Shultz Sandra J. , Morrissey Matthew C. , Vauhnik Renata
Published: March 2024

Purpose

Females with above‐average anterior knee laxity values are at increased risk of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of menarche age (MA) and menarche offset on anterior knee laxity in young, physically active women.

Methods

Anterior knee laxity (KT‐2000) and menstrual characteristics (per self‐report) were recorded in 686 Slovenian sportswomen from team handball, volleyball and basketball club sports (average years sport participation: 7.3 ± 3.6 years). Females were stratified into four groups based on their self‐reported age at menarche: 9–11, 12, 13 and 14+ years. Anterior knee laxity was compared across MA groups using a univariate analysis of variance (ANOVA) with Bonferroni correction, with and without controlling for factors that could potentially differ between groups and influence anterior knee laxity. Females were then stratified into four groups based on the number of years they were away from their age at onset of menarche. Groups were compared using a univariate ANOVA with Bonferroni correction, with and without controlling for factors that differed between groups and could influence anterior knee laxity.

Results

Anterior knee laxity was greater in females who attained menarche at 12 years of age (6.4 ± 1.5 mm) or younger (6.6 ± 1.6 mm) compared to 14 years of age or older (5.8 ± 1.2 mm) (p < 0.001; partial η2 = 0.032). Anterior knee laxity was 0.7–1.4 mm greater in females who were 5 or more years away from menarche compared to those who were within 2 years of menarche (5.8 ± 1.3 mm; p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Anterior knee laxity is greater in females who attained menarche at a younger age and in females who are 5 or more years postmenarche. Age of menarche represents a critical pubertal event that is easy for women to recall and may provide important insights into factors that moderate anterior knee laxity, a risk factor for ACL injury in women.

Level of Evidence

Level IV.
Self‐Aligned Photonic Defect Microcavity Lasers with Site‐Controlled Quantum Dots
Authors: Shih Ching‐Wen , Limame Imad , Palekar Chirag C. , Koulas‐Simos Aris , Kaganskiy Arsenty , Klenovský Petr , Reitzenstein Stephan
Published: March 2024

Self‐assembled semiconductor quantum dots face challenges in terms of scalable device integration because of their random growth positions, originating from the Stranski–Krastanov growth mode. Even with existing site‐controlled growth techniques, for example, nanohole or buried stressor concepts, a further lithography and etching step with high spatial alignment requirements is necessary to accurately integrate quantum dots into the nanophotonic devices. Here, the fabrication and characterization of strain‐induced site‐controlled microcavities are reported, where site‐controlled quantum dots are positioned at the antinode of the optical mode field in a self‐aligned manner without the need of any further nano‐processing. It is shown that the cavity properties such as Q‐factor, mode volume, and mode splitting can be tailored by the geometry of the integrated buried stressor, with an opening <4 µm. The experimental results are complemented with theory calculations based on continuum elasticity. Lasing signatures, including super‐linear input‐output response and linewidth narrowing, are observed for a 3.6‐µm self‐aligned cavity with a Q‐factor of 18 000. Furthermore, the quasi‐planar site‐controlled cavities exhibit no detrimental thermal effects. This approach integrates seamlessly with the industrial‐matured manufacturing process and the buried‐stressor technique, paving the way for exceptional scalability and straightforward manufacturing of high‐β microlasers and bright quantum light sources.
Airy‐Like Hyperbolic Shear Polaritons in High Symmetry van der Waals Crystals
Authors: Bai Yihua , Zhang Qing , Zhang Tan , Lv Haoran , Yan Jiadian , Wang Jiandong , Fu Shenhe , Hu Guangwei , Qiu Cheng‐Wei , Yang Yuanjie
Published: March 2024

Controlling light at the nanoscale by exploiting ultra‐confined polaritons—hybrid light and matter waves—in various van der Waals (vdW) materials empowers unique opportunities for many nanophotonic on‐chip technologies. So far, mainstream approaches have relied on interfacial techniques (e.g., refractive optics, meta‐optics, and moire engineering) to manipulate the polariton wavefront. Here, it is proposed that orbital angular momentum (OAM) of incident light can offer a new degree of freedom to structure vdW polaritons. With vortex excitations, a new class of accelerating polariton waves is observed—Airy‐like hyperbolic phonon polaritons (PhPs) in high‐symmetry orthorhombic vdW crystal α‐MoO3. In analogous to the well‐known Airy beams in free space, such Airy‐like PhPs also exhibit self‐accelerating, nonspreading, and self‐healing characteristics. Interestingly, the helical phase gradient of the vortex beam leads to asymmetry excitation of polaritons, as a result, the Airy‐like PhPs possess asymmetric propagation features even with a symmetric mode, analogous to the asymmetry hyperbolic shear polaritons in low‐symmetry crystals. The finding highlights the potential of OAM to manipulate polaritons in vdW materials, which can be further extended into a variety of applications such as active structured polaritonic devices.
Skin‐Friendly Flexible Ultraviolet Detectors Based on Reversibly Deformable Worm‐Like Polymer Nanoparticles
Authors: Han Jianing , Deng Zichao , Wang Rui , Liu Zhefeng , Sun Yalan , Chen Aihua
Published: March 2024

Flexible ultraviolet (UV) light detection technology has important applications in wearable devices, smart sensors, and other fields and attracts much attention in recent years. However, for most semiconductor‐based UV detectors, the elastic modulus between rigid semiconductors and flexible substrates is mismatched, which makes it difficult to fabricate UV detectors that meet the needs of wearable devices. Herein, a fully flexible, large‐scale, skin‐friendly UV photodetector component centered on photo‐responsive worm‐like polymer nanoparticles (NPs) is developed, and the resulting device can quantitatively detect UV illumination. Skin‐friendly poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA), amphiphilic azobenzene‐containing polymer NPs (AzNPs), and water‐soluble ionic liquids (IL) are formed into (AzNPs‐IL)/PVA fabrics by electrospinning. There are interactions such as hydrogen bonding among PVA, AzNPs, and IL, which make the material system stable. The UV detector made of the fabric realizes UV sensing through the illuminance–mechanical stress–electrical signal conversion mechanism. It is capable of achieving a response time of 9 s, a detection range of 10–150 mW cm−2, and stability for 1000 cycle tests upon 365 nm UV irradiation. Moreover, it has good skin affinity, and the water contact angle of the fabric is only 23.57°, which holds great promise for wearable smart devices.
Designing a New Class of Mechanophoric Polymer Based on Epoxy‐Functionalized Rhodamine Derivative
Authors: Chakraborty Swadhin , Bhattacharya Koushik , Choudhury Soumyadip , Singha Nikhil K.
Published: March 2024

Mechanophoric polymers are an interesting class of smart polymers which contains a special force‐sensitive molecular motif that can lead to a chemical change within the polymer network in response to mechanical force. This investigation reports the design of a mechanophoric polymer based on epoxy‐functionalized rhodamine via a monomeric approach. In this case, rhodamine (Rh) is modified with glycidyl methacrylate (GMA) through an epoxy–amine reaction to design a vinyl‐functionalized multi‐armed macromonomer (Rh‐GMA), which is reacted with butyl acrylate (BA) to prepare the crosslinked polymeric film. The crosslinked polymeric film demonstrates mechanophoric properties under UV and stretching conditions.
Modeling the Interface Between Phases in Dense Polymer‐Carbon Black Nanoparticle Composites by Dielectric Spectroscopy: Where Are We Now and What are the Opportunities?
Authors: Brosseau Christian
Published: March 2024

The macroscopic properties of polymer nanocomposites (PNC) rely largely on the interphase between the polymer chains and the filler particles. One significant difficulty to solve this issue is to quantitatively model the structure‐property correlations due to the interfacial region in these complex materials. While dielectric spectroscopy (DS) measurements are routinely used to characterize the effective permittivity of filled polymers, fitting standard effective medium models and mixing equations to these data remains notoriously difficult to interpret. This is due to the absence of explicit reference to internal length scales characterizing the interfaces in the PNC. As an illustrative example, a two‐level homogenization framework is proposed which enables the extraction of useful information on the impact of a thin interphase confined on a nanometer length scale based on broadband DS data. This model leads to new ways of tuning the interphase so as to optimize the material's response to electric field, a situation relevant for electromagnetic shielding. This approach provides guidance on how to observe directly and experimentally the actual properties of the interface between the phases (as opposed to model‐based inference). Aside from its secure physical foundation in the theory of effective medium, a significant advantage of this approach is that a genetic algorithm (GA) technique applied to this physics‐based model enables the uniqueness of the fit parameters to be considered, as the GA method is robust in terms of finding globally optimum solutions, therefore placing confidence in non‐universal values of the percolation exponents. Recent work in physics‐informed machine learning indicates that the effective dielectric properties of PNC with many degrees of freedom due to their complex morphology can be described by considering only a few degrees of freedom describing the interface features between the phases in these composites.
Dramatic California ballot measure held narrow lead in statewide vote
Authors: Enos Gary
Published: March 2024

As MHW was going to press, the final outcome of California's hotly debated Proposition 1 measure to dramatically alter the state's mental health service delivery system remained in doubt. For most of election night on March 5 and into the following morning, the proposal that would earmark more Mental Health Services Act funding for the development of housing was holding a razor‐thin lead.
Ukraine MH professionals offered psychedelic therapy training
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: March 2024

In response to the psychological trauma inflicted by the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, Fluence, a leader in comprehensive, evidence‐based training in psychedelic therapy announced last week a collaboration with the Ukrainian Psychedelic Research Association (UPRA) and the U.S. nonprofit Health Ukraine Trauma (HUT), to provide free training in psychedelic therapy to Ukrainian psychologists and doctors.
A q‐Erkuş–Srivastava polynomials operator
Authors: Agrawal Purshottam Narain , Baxhaku Behar , Singh Jitendra Kumar
Published: March 2024

Chan et al. (Integral Transforms Spec. Funct. 12 (2), 139–148, (2001)) constructed a multivariable extension of the Lagrange polynomials, popularly known as the Chan–Chyan–Srivastava polynomials. Altin and Erkuş (Integral Transforms Spec. Funct. 17, 239–244, (2006)) proposed Lagrange–Hermite polynomials in several variables. Erkuş and Srivastava (Integral Transforms Spec. Funct., 17, 267–273, (2006)) presented an unification (and generalization) of the Chan–Chyan–Srivastava polynomials and the multivariable Lagrange–Hermite polynomials, called as Erkuş–Srivastava polynomials. Duman (Taiwanese J. Math. 12 (2), 539‐543, (2008)) defined a
‐analogue of these generalized multivariable polynomials. Inspired by these studies, we construct a linear positive operator by means of the
‐Erkuş–Srivastava multivariable polynomials and study the Korovkin‐type theorems and the rate of convergence of these operators by using summability techniques of weighted
‐statistical convergence and the power series method. We also define a
th‐order Taylor generalization of the multivariable polynomials operator and investigate the approximation of
th‐order continuously differentiable Lipschitz class elements. Finally, we define the bivariate case of
‐Erkuş–Srivastava multivariable polynomials operator and study its
‐statistical convergence by using four‐dimensional matrix transformation.
A comprehensive quality assurance protocol for electromagnetic tracking in brachytherapy
Authors: Dürrbeck Christopher , Gomez‐Sarmiento Isaac Neri , Androulakis Ioannis , Sauer Birte Christina , Kolkman‐Deurloo Inger‐Karine , Bert Christoph , Beaulieu Luc
Published: March 2024

Background

Electromagnetic tracking (EMT) systems have proven to be a valuable source of information regarding the location and geometry of applicators in patients undergoing brachytherapy (BT). As an important element of an enhanced and individualized pre‐treatment verification, EMT can play a pivotal role in detecting treatment errors and uncertainties to increase patient safety.

Purpose

The purpose of this study is two‐fold: to design, develop and test a dedicated measurement protocol for the use of EMT‐enabled afterloaders in BT and to collect and compare the data acquired from three different radiation oncology centers in different clinical environments.

Methods

A novel quality assurance (QA) phantom composed of a scaffold with supports to fix the field generator, different BT applicators, and reference sensors (sensor verification tools) was used to assess the precision (jitter error) and accuracy (relative distance errors and target registration error) of the EMT sensor integrated into an afterloader prototype. Measurements were repeated in different environments where EMT measurements are likely to be performed, namely an electromagnetically clean laboratory, a BT suite, an operating room, and, if available, a CT suite and an MRI suite dedicated to BT.

Results

The mean positional jitter was consistently under 0.1 mm across all measurement points, with a slight trend of increased jitter at greater distances from the field generator. The mean variability of sensor positioning in the tested tandem and ring gynecological applicator was also below 0.1 mm. The tracking accuracy close to the center of the measurement volume was higher than at its edges. The relative distance error at the center was 0.2‐0.3 mm with maximum values reaching 1.2‐1.8 mm, but up to 5.5 mm for measurement points close to the edges. In general, similar accuracy results were obtained in the clinical environments and in all investigated institutions (median distance error 0.1‐0.4 mm, maximum error 1.0‐2.0 mm), however, errors were found to be larger in the CT suite (median distance error up to 1.0 mm, maximum error up to 3.6 mm).

Conclusion

The presented quality assessment protocol for EMT systems in BT has demonstrated that EMT offers a high‐accuracy determination of the applicator/implant geometry even in clinical environments. In addition to that, it has provided valuable insights into the performance of EMT‐enabled afterloaders across different radiation oncology centers.
Exploring the potential extended role of community pharmacy in the management of osteoarthritis: A multi‐methods study with pharmacy staff and other healthcare professionals
Authors: Simkins Joanna , Holden Melanie A. , Babatunde Opeyemi , White Simon , Nicholls Elaine , Long Angela , Dziedzic Krysia , Chudyk Adrian , Todd Adam , Walker Christine , Stanford Colin , Cottrell Elizabeth , Edwards John , Healey Emma L. , Cork Tania , Mallen Christian , O’Brien Nicola
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Osteoarthritis is the commonest form of chronic joint pain, which patients often self‐manage before seeking healthcare advice. Patients frequently seek advice from community pharmacies, and a recent policy has recommended integrating community pharmacies into long‐term condition pathways. This study explored community pharmacy teams' (CPs) and other healthcare professionals' (HCPs) views on community pharmacies providing an extended role for osteoarthritis management, identifying potential barriers and facilitators to this.

Methods

A multi‐methods study comprising surveys of CPs and other HCPs, followed by qualitative interviews. Descriptive statistics were used in an exploratory analysis of the survey data. Qualitative data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis and the identified barriers and facilitators were mapped to the Theoretical Domains Framework.

Result

CPs and other HCPs in the surveys and interviews reported that an extended role for osteoarthritis management could include: a subjective assessment, explaining the joint problem and its treatment, medication management and support for self‐care. There was less consensus on diagnosing the problem as OA and completing an objective assessment. A key facilitator was training to deliver the role, whilst barriers were high workload and lack of access to General Practitioner medical records.

Discussion

Acceptable elements of an extended community pharmacy role for osteoarthritis centre around the provision of information, advice on medication and supported self‐management.

Conclusion

CPs are well placed to contribute towards evidenced‐based osteoarthritis management. Feasibility testing of delivering the extended role is needed and future implementation requires training for CPs and raising public awareness of the extended role.
Epidemiology of seropositive myasthenia gravis in Sardinia: A population‐based study in the district of Sassari
Authors: Sechi Elia , Deiana Giovanni A. , Puci Mariangela , Zara Pietro , Ortu Enzo , Porcu Caterina , Carboni Nicola , Chessa Paola , Ruiu Elisa , Nieddu Arianna , Tacconi Paolo , Russo Antonello , Manca Davide , Sechi M. Margherita , Guida Melania , Ricciardi Roberta , Ercoli Tommaso , Mascia Marcello M. , Muroni Antonella , Profice Paolo , Saddi Valeria , Melis Maurizio , Cocco Eleonora , Spagni Gregorio , Iorio Raffaele , Damato Valentina , Maestri Michelangelo , Sotgiu Stefano , Sotgiu Giovanni , Solla Paolo
Published: March 2024

Introduction/Aims

The global incidence and prevalence of myasthenia gravis (MG) range between 6–31/million and 10–37/100,000, respectively. Sardinia is a high‐risk region for different immune‐mediated disorders, but the epidemiology of MG remains unclear. We determined the epidemiology of MG with acetylcholine receptor (AChR)‐immunoglobulin G (IgG) and muscle‐specific tyrosine kinase (MuSK)‐IgG in the district of Sassari (North‐Western Sardinia; population, 325,288).

Methods

From the laboratory of the University Hospital of Sassari (reference for AChR/MuSK‐IgG testing in Sardinia since 1998) and the main neurology units in Sardinia, we retrospectively identified MG patients with (1) AChR‐IgG and/or MuSK‐IgG positivity by radioimmunoprecipitation assay; and (2) residency in the district of Sassari. Incidence (January 2010–December 2019) and prevalence (December 31, 2019) were calculated.

Results

A total of 202 patients were included (incident, 107; prevalent, 180). Antibody specificities were AChR (n = 187 [93%]) and MuSK (n = 15 [7%]). The crude MG incidence (95% confidence interval) was 32.6 (26.8–39.2)/million, while prevalence was 55.3 (47.7–63.9)/100,000. After age‐standardization to the world population, incidence decreased to 18.4 (14.3–22.5)/million, while prevalence decreased to 31.6 (26.1–37.0)/100,000. Among incident cases, age strata (years) at MG onset were: <18 (2%), 18–49 (14%), 50–64 (21%), and ≥65 (63%).

Discussion

Sardinia is a high‐risk region for MG, with a prevalence that exceeds the European threshold for rare disease. Identification of the environmental and genetic determinants of this risk may improve our understanding of disease pathophysiology.
EEG and video documentation of benzodiazepine challenge in catatonic stupor: A case report
Authors: Tamune Hidetaka , Tsukioka Yu , Sakuma Shota , Taira Daiki , Takaoka Yoshie , Tamura Naoto , Kato Tadafumi
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Catatonia, a psychomotor disorder characterized by diverse clinical signs, including stupor and mutism, remains elusive in its causes and a challenge to diagnose. Moreover, it is often underrecognized due to its resemblance to disorders of consciousness. However, when diagnosing catatonia, an antipsychotic medication may exacerbate the condition. The first‐line treatment typically includes benzodiazepines and/or electroconvulsive therapy (ECT).

Case Report

A 60‐year‐old woman with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and epilepsy presented with catatonic stupor. Despite stable treatment, she experienced an acute deterioration in consciousness, requiring hospitalization. Her condition improved markedly following a benzodiazepine challenge, as documented on EEG. This improvement was short‐lived, but a second benzodiazepine challenge restored her from E1V1M1 (stupor) to E4V5M6 within minutes, as documented by a video recording. The patient was treated with lorazepam 1.5 mg/day orally and did not experience further relapses.

Discussion

The diagnosis of catatonia had been based on her scores on the Bush‐Francis Catatonia Rating Scale (BFCRS; Screening, 6/14; Severity, 19), despite meeting only two DSM‐5 criteria for catatonia (stupor and mutism). The diagnosis was supported by EEG and video documentation, excluding other potential differential diagnoses such as nonconvulsive status epilepticus and encephalopathy. Additional quantitative EEG analyses indicated that benzodiazepine administration increased brainwide alpha and beta band power significantly, suggesting that the benzodiazepine normalized attention, consciousness, and long‐range synchronization. This report additionally emphasizes the significance of video recordings in managing catatonia, and it helps in accurately tracking symptoms, documenting comprehensively, and improving patient understanding, which is crucial for treatment adherence.
A Computational Study of Photoinduced Borylation for Selected Boron Sources
Authors: Fan Ka Wa , Luk Hoi Ling , Phillips David Lee
Published: March 2024

This research article uses density functional theory (DFT) to study photoinduced borylation. This work examined the electron donor‐acceptor complex (EDA) of bis(catecholato)diboron with different redox‐active leaving groups and bis(pinacol)diboron with aryl N‐hydroxyphthalimide. The results of these DFT studies show the complex ratio of B2cat2 and N, N‐dimethylacetamide (DMA) should be 1 : 2 which is consistent with the experimental results in the literature. We further proposed a reaction mechanism and calculated the energies associated with each step.