bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Seasonal changes in diel haul‐out patterns of a lacustrine ringed seal (Pusa hispida saimensis)
Authors: Niemi Marja , Nykänen Milaja , Biard Vincent , Kunnasranta Mervi
Published: July 2023

Seasonal changes in diel haul‐out patterns of the lacustrine Saimaa ringed seal (Pusa hispida saimensis) were studied using a combination of satellite telemetry and camera traps during 2007–2015. We found the haul‐out activity patterns to vary seasonally. Our results show that during the ice‐covered winter period before the seals start their annual molt, the peak in haul‐out generally occurs at midnight. Similarly, during the postmolt season of summer and autumn when the lake is free of ice, the haul‐out is concentrated in the early hours of the morning. In contrast, over the spring molting period, Saimaa ringed seals tend to haul out around the clock. The spring molt is also the only period when a slight difference in haul‐out behavior between the sexes is observed, with females having a haul‐out peak at nighttime while the males have a less visible diel pattern. According to our results, the diel haul‐out patterns of Saimaa ringed seals are similar to the ones of marine ringed seals. Gathering information on haul‐out activity is important in order to safeguard the natural patterns of Saimaa ringed seals in areas that are prone to disturbance from human activities.
Adsorption characteristics of aqueous Cr(VI) by using magnetic γFe2O3/Fe3O4 lotus stem biochar by NaOH modification
Authors: Liu Yanyan , Xie Xiaoxiao , Wang Jie , Tao Jun , Li Yaru , Ye Xiaochun , Xu Kai
Published: July 2023

The article aims to investigate the adsorption characteristics of aqueous Cr(VI) biochar by magnetic γFe2O3/Fe3O4/NaOH lotus stem biochar (SMBC) which was synthesized with modification of γFe2O3, Fe3O4, and sodium hydroxide. Biochar samples before and after adsorption were characterized with Brunauer Emmett Teller, X‐ray diffractometer, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X‐ray photoelectron spectrometer, magnetism. The results showed that SMBC was successfully prepared with the saturation magnetization of 66.608 emu/g and the BET specific surface area of 239.56 m2/g. The adsorption isotherm study showed that the theoretical maximum adsorption capacity of SMBC for Cr(VI) was 196.270 mg/g. The process of its adsorption of Cr(VI) fit the Langmuir isotherm adsorption model and the pseudo‐second‐order kinetic model, indicating that this process was chemical adsorption. The adsorption mechanism of SMBC to Cr(VI) mainly included electrostatic interaction, redox, and complexation. Desorption and regeneration experiment results showed that SMBC after adsorption could be easily recycled from the solution under the force of an external magnetic field. Furthermore, the adsorption capacity of SMBC reached about 80% of the original even after six desorption/regeneration cycles. This study proves that SMBC showed great potential as a separable and reproducible adsorbent to remove Cr(VI) in wastewater with excellent adsorption performance, strong adaptability, environmental friendliness, and good recycle.
Unfavorable public attitude toward people with epilepsy in Ethiopia: A systematic review and meta‐analysis study
Authors: Biresaw Mengesha Srahbzu , Irawan Anggi , Halász Peter , Szucs Anna
Published: July 2023

Objective

This systematic review and meta‐analysis aims to show the pooled prevalence of unfavorable public attitude toward people with epilepsy (UPATPWE) as well as the effect estimates of associated factors in Ethiopia.

Methods

Between December 1 and 31, 2022, we searched for the English version of published research reports on public attitude toward epilepsy in Ethiopia in PubMed/Medline, Science Direct, Cochrane Library, Google Scholar, and PsycINFO. The research reports' quality was assessed using the Newcastle‐Ottawa Scale. We extracted the relevant information from the searched papers in a Microsoft Excel format and imported it to STATA version 15.0, for analysis. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analysis (PRISMA) reports guideline was used. A random‐effects meta‐analysis model was used to estimate the Der Simonian and Laird's pooled prevalence of unfavorable public attitude and its associated factors.

Results

Nine out of the accessed 104 research papers meeting the pre‐specified criteria were included in this study. The overall pooled prevalence of UPATPWE in Ethiopia is 52.06 (95% CI: 37.54, 66.59), resulting in excommunication, physical punishments, and assaults against people with epilepsy as well as frequent lack of diagnosis and proper treatment. The pooled effect estimates for witnessing a seizure episode were done and it was (AOR = 2.70 [95% CI: 1.13, 6.46]).

Significance

As interventions and new strategies to change attitudes and facilitate a supportive, positive, and socially inclusive environment for PWE may root in education and scientific research outputs, our result hopefully evokes the policy makers' attention for building a well‐designed and comprehensive health education and campaign strategy.
The internal aqueous phase gelation improves the viability of probiotic cells in a double water/oil/water emulsion system
Authors: Abbasi Shahrokh , Rafati Alireza , Hosseini Seyed Mohammad Hashem , Roohinejad Shahin , Hashemi Seyedeh‐Sara , Hashemi Gahruie Hadi , Rashidinejad Ali
Published: July 2023

This research studied the viability of probiotic bacterium Lactobacillus plantarum (L. plantarum) encapsulated in the internal aqueous phase (W1) of a water‐in‐oil‐in‐water (W1/O/W2) emulsion system, with the help of gelation and different gelling agents. Additionally, the physicochemical, rheological, and microstructural properties of the fabricated emulsion systems were assessed over time under the effect of W1 gelation. The average droplet size and zeta potential of the control system and the systems fabricated using gelatin, alginate, tragacanth gum, and carrageenan were 14.7, 12.0, 5.1, 6.4, and 7.3 μm and − 21.1, −34.1, −46.2, −38.3, and −34.7 mV, respectively. The results showed a significant increase in the physical stability of the system and encapsulation efficiency of L. plantarum after the W1 gelation. The internal phase gelation significantly increased the viability of bacteria against heat and acidic pH, with tragacanth gum being the best gelling agent for increasing the viability of L. plantarum (28.05% and 16.74%, respectively). Apparent viscosity and rheological properties of emulsions were significantly increased after the W1 gelation, particularly in those jellified with alginate. Overall, L. plantarum encapsulation in W1/O/W2 emulsion, followed by the W1 gelation using tragacanth gum as the gelling agent, could increase both stability and viability of this probiotic bacteria.
Bio‐based building components: A newly sustainable solution for traditional walls made of Arundo donax and gypsum
Authors: Barreca Francesco , Cardinali Giuseppe , Barbaresi Alberto , Bovo Marco
Published: July 2023

To contribute to the use of bio‐based materials in the building sector, a novel bio‐based wall panel, with a high thermal performance level, is proposed in this work. The panel is based on an ancient rural technique, widely diffused in southern Italy, which makes use of Arundo donax L. canes combined with gypsum plaster to build walls and ceilings of rural buildings. The enhancement of the thermal capacity of these panels by means of the introduction in the canes of a natural wax oleogel (WO) is proposed in this paper. A specific experimental campaign aiming at the comparison of traditional and innovative panels was carried out to assess the enhanced thermal performance of the proposed solution. The maximum value of heat flow absorbed from the panel with WO was 61.08 W/m2 around a mean panel temperature of 24°C, corresponding to the melting temperature range of the WO. The panel without WO at the same temperature absorbed an incoming heat flow of 34.64 W/m2 which is about 57% of the panel with WO. The panel with WO released at a temperature of about 27.5°C, a heat flow of 43.42 W/m2. At the same temperature of about 27.5°C, the panel without WO released a heat flow of 34.38 W/m2 which is about 80% that of the panel with WO. The results highlighted that the addition of natural WO has enhanced the thermal capacity of the panel facilitating heat dissipation through the borders. These characteristics make the panel a suitable component for internal partitions of controlled temperature zones such as residential rooms, storage food areas, livestock buildings, and where it is necessary to obtain a constant environmental temperature. In particular, the null or low toxicity of the panel's materials allows for partition use, also in hygienically safe environments.
Role of male partner in women's fertility decision and family planning utilization in four regional states of Ethiopia: A mixed‐method study
Authors: Gudu Wondimu , Bekele Delayehu , Surur Feiruz , Teklu Alula , Abesha Yonas , Nigatu Balkachew , Kassa Munir , Lako Tadele Kebede , Sium Abraham Fessehaye
Published: July 2023

Objective

To determine the role of male partner involvement in fertility decision‐making and intention to use contraceptives by women in four regional states of Ethiopia.

Methods

A mixed‐method quantitative–qualitative cross‐sectional study was conducted among 2891 women of reproductive age in four emerging regions (Benishangul‐Gumuz, Gambela, Afar, and Somali) of Ethiopia. Key informant interview, in‐depth interview, and focus group discussion were performed for qualitative data extraction. Simple descriptive statistics were used to analyze quantitative data, and frequency, means, and proportions were used to present the results. Qualitative data were analyzed.

Results

Approximately half of the women (1519/2891, 52.5%) discussed contraceptive methods with their partners. Most women did not have the freedom to make independent decisions on fertility preference, with the highest being in the Afar region (376/643, 58.5%). In all regions, the male partner was the dominant decision‐maker behind the intention to start using or continue using family planning methods by the woman. Better educational status of male partners and a good attitude towards use of family planning by the woman were associated with contraceptive use by the women.

Conclusions

Male partners play a predominant role in fertility preferences and decisions on family planning use by women.
A machine learning‐assisted multifunctional tactile sensor for smart prosthetics
Authors: Li Yue , Yang Lin , Deng Shihao , Huang Hong , Wang Yingyi , Xiong Zuoping , Feng Simin , Wang Shuqi , Li Tie , Zhang Ting
Published: July 2023

The absence of tactile perception limits the dexterity of a prosthetic hand and its acceptance by amputees. Recreating the sensing properties of the skin using a flexible tactile sensor could have profound implications for prosthetics, whereas existing tactile sensors often have limited functionality with cross‐interference. In this study, we propose a machine‐learning‐assisted multifunctional tactile sensor for smart prosthetics, providing a human‐like tactile sensing approach for amputations. This flexible sensor is based on a poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene): poly(styrene sulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS)–melamine sponge, which enables the detection of force and temperature with low cross‐coupling owing to two separate sensing mechanisms: the open‐circuit voltage of the sensor as a force‐insensitive intrinsic variable to measure the absolute temperature and the resistance as a temperature‐insensitive extrinsic variable to measure force. Furthermore, by analyzing the unsteady heat conduction and characterizing it using real‐time thermal imaging, we demonstrated that the process of open‐circuit voltage variation resulting from the unsteady heat conduction is closely correlated with the heat‐conducting capabilities of materials, which can be utilized to discriminate between substances. Assisted by the decision tree algorithm, the device is endowed with thermal conductivity sensing ability, which allows it to identify 10 types of substances with an accuracy of 94.7%. Furthermore, an individual wearing an advanced myoelectric prosthesis equipped with the above sensor can sense pressure, temperature, and recognize different materials. We demonstrated that our multifunctional tactile sensor provides a new strategy to help amputees feel force, temperature and identify the material of objects without the aid of vision.

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Water accounting in the Berrechid plain (Morocco): A process approach
Authors: El Meknassi Yousoufi Ehssan , Hammani Ali , Kuper Marcel , Bouarfa Sami , Vallée Domitille
Published: July 2023

Water scarcity is a growing challenge to the governance of water resources and to multiple water uses. Dealing with water scarcity requires a better‐shared understanding of water supply and demand dynamics on the part of the different stakeholders who contribute to and/or suffer the consequences of water scarcity. This study highlights the importance of establishing a water accounting system for groundwater management in the Berrechid plain (Morocco) and the conditions under which such accounting may help solve current water issues. The plain is under considerable water stress, and stakeholders are struggling to implement aquifer management plans to ensure groundwater sustainability. The study identified and quantified various components of the water balance and estimated annual groundwater overexploitation for the period 2001–2018 to be 32 million m3. Fractional analysis of the water balance showed that the reason for aquifer water stress was a rapid increase in irrigated land and current intensive agricultural and irrigation practices, which threaten both the sustainability of water resources and economic activities in the plain. To improve water governance, a system of water accounting is required that promotes responsible use and ensures that all stakeholders are answerable and accountable for their water consumption along with any actions that may affect water flows.
Cultivating writerly virtues: Critical human elements of multimodal writing in the age of artificial intelligence
Authors: Daniel Shannon , Pacheco Mark , Smith Blaine , Burriss Sarah , Hundley Melanie
Published: July 2023

With increased availability, accessibility, and capability of artificial intelligence (AI) tools, we argue that human processes of virtuous and multimodal composition can support meaningful communication. After defining our perspectives on writerly virtue and multimodality, we suggest how writers and their instructors might approach the use of AI tools in virtuous and multimodal writing and argue that writing processes promote human development, and the products support purposeful human‐to‐human communication. We explain our views of virtuous and multimodal composition with examples of writers across contexts and provide potential implications for writerly development and writing instructors.
Unsupervised machine learning algorithms identify expected haemorrhage relationships but define unexplained coagulation profiles mapping to thrombotic phenotypes in hereditary haemorrhagic telangiectasia
Authors: Mukhtar Ghazel , Shovlin Claire L.
Published: July 2023

Hereditary haemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT) can result in challenging anaemia and thrombosis phenotypes. Clinical presentations of HHT vary for relatives with identical casual mutations, suggesting other factors may modify severity. To examine objectively, we developed unsupervised machine learning algorithms to test whether haematological data at presentation could be categorised into sub‐groupings and fitted to known biological factors. With ethical approval, we examined 10 complete blood count (CBC) variables, four iron index variables, four coagulation variables and eight iron/coagulation indices combined from 336 genotyped HHT patients (40% male, 60% female, 86.5% not using iron supplementation) at a single centre. T‐SNE unsupervised, dimension reduction, machine learning algorithms assigned each high‐dimensional datapoint to a location in a two‐dimensional plane. k‐Means clustering algorithms grouped into profiles, enabling visualisation and inter‐profile comparisons of patients’ clinical and genetic features. The unsupervised machine learning algorithms using t‐SNE and k‐Means identified two distinct CBC profiles, two iron profiles, four clotting profiles and three combined profiles. Validating the methodology, profiles for CBC or iron indices fitted expected patterns for haemorrhage. Distinct coagulation profiles displayed no association with age, sex, C‐reactive protein, pulmonary arteriovenous malformations (AVMs), ENG/ACVRL1 genotype or epistaxis severity. The most distinct profiles were from t‐SNE/k‐Means analyses of combined iron‐coagulation indices and mapped to three risk states – for venous thromboembolism in HHT; for ischaemic stroke attributed to paradoxical emboli through pulmonary AVMs in HHT; and for cerebral abscess attributed to odontogenic bacteremias in immunocompetent HHT patients with right‐to‐left shunting through pulmonary AVMs. In conclusion, unsupervised machine learning algorithms categorise HHT haematological indices into distinct, clinically relevant profiles which are independent of age, sex or HHT genotype. Further evaluation may inform prophylaxis and management for HHT patients’ haemorrhagic and thrombotic phenotypes.
Facile access to 2‐amino‐4‐aryl‐5H‐chromeno[4,3‐b]pyridine‐3‐carbonitriles through a strategy of one‐pot Michael/cyclization reaction
Authors: Wang Dao‐Cai , Chen Xi‐Xia , Liu Xiao‐Peng
Published: July 2023

An unprecedented cascade Michael/cyclization reaction of 4‐chromanone derivatives, aldehydes, and 2‐cyanothioacetamide was presented for the preparation of distinctive 2‐amino‐4‐aryl‐5H‐chromeno[4,3‐b]pyridine‐3‐carbonitriles promoted by ammonium acetate. The optimized reaction conditions were used for the synthesis of 2‐amino‐4‐aryl‐5H‐chromeno[4,3‐b]pyridine‐3‐carbonitrile derivatives in medium to high yields. The synthetic method features a convenient operational process, easy access to raw material as well as high atom economy.
Symptom profiles and vaccination status for COVID‐19 after the adjustment of the dynamic zero‐COVID policy in China: An observational study
Authors: Zhang Haoyang , Lu Zhenxing , Yang Fan , Chen Hongwei , Zhang Le , Zhao Huiying , Chen Yongkun
Published: July 2023

There has been a substantial rise in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) cases after adjusting the dynamic zero‐COVID policy in China. We conducted a survey to investigate the self‐perceived symptom profile and its association with vaccination status during this outbreak. There were 552 individuals in this survey. The infected individuals displayed various symptoms associated with different factors. The three most common symptoms were fatigue (92.21%), phlegm (91.49%), and cough (89.31%). Two typical clusters of COVID‐19 symptoms were identified through hierarchical clustering: one was the symptoms with a high probability of co‐occurrence that primarily involved the upper respiratory tract, and the other was the symptoms with a high prevalence of severe cases that affected multiple systems. Symptoms exhibited distinct across regions. Hebei Province reported the most severe respiratory symptoms, and Chongqing City reported the worst neurological and digestive symptoms. Cough and fatigue occurred together in most regions. Nevertheless, the cough severity of Zhejiang, Liaoning, and Yunnan provinces was lower than in other areas (t‐test p < 0.001). Regression analysis suggested a potential protective effect of recent vaccination on some symptoms. Compared with people who had been vaccinated within half a year, those for more than 1 year had a higher risk of developing phlegm, cough, vertigo, and nausea (all p < 0.05). Our study illustrated the characteristics and symptom profiles of COVID‐19 during this wave and provided data supporting its relationship with multiple factors. These findings offered new insights into the recent COVID‐19 pandemic in China.
Upsurge in hospitalization of pediatric patients with severe acute respiratory infections in Kolkata and surrounding districts caused by recombinant human respiratory adenovirus type B 7/3
Authors: Majumdar Agniva , Saha Ritubrita , Chatterjee Ananya , Gupta Rudrak , Chaudhuri Ratul Datta , Chakrabarti Alok Kumar , Chawla‐Sarkar Mamta , Dutta Shanta
Published: July 2023

Globally, different genotypes of human adenoviruses are associated with outbreaks of acute respiratory infection (ARI) though such evidence is lacking from India. In the present study, we report a sudden increase in the positivity of respiratory adenovirus among hospitalized children with ARI from Kolkata and the surrounding districts of West Bengal, India, from December 2022 to date. A sharp rise in the positivity rate of respiratory adenovirus was found which ranged from 22.1% in early December 2022 to 52.6% in mid‐March 2023. The overall positivity was 40.4% during the period and children in the 2 to <5 years (51.0%) age group were mostly affected. Single infection with adenovirus was found in 72.4% of cases while co‐infection with rhinovirus was the maximum (9.4%). Around 97.5% of positive cases required hospitalization. Cough, breathlessness, and wheeze were the most common clinical features among positive patients. Phylogenetic analysis of the hexon and fiber gene of all the sequenced strains revealed HAdV‐B 7/3 recombination with more than 99% homology within themselves. This report of a respiratory adenovirus outbreak in West Bengal, India causing severe illness in the pediatric population underscores the need for regular monitoring of the circulating strains.
Estimating true prevalence through questionnaire data
Authors: Mielke Adam , Denwood Matt , Christiansen Lasse Engbo
Published: July 2023

We present a general analytical method for obtaining unbiased prevalence estimates based on data from regional or national testing programs, where individual participation in the testing program is voluntary but where additional questionnaire data is collected regarding the individual‐level reason/motivation for being tested. The approach is based on re‐writing the conditional probabilities for being tested, being infected, and having symptoms, so that a series of equations can be defined that relate estimable quantities (from test data and questionnaire data) to the result of interest (an unbiased estimate of prevalence). The final estimates appear to be robust based on prima‐facie examination of the temporal dynamics estimated, as well as agreement with an independent estimate of prevalence. Our approach demonstrates the potential strength of incorporating questionnaires when testing a population during an outbreak, and can be used to help obtain unbiased estimates of prevalence in similar settings.
Severe soft tissue infection: A complication of mpox in an individual with HIV coinfection requiring vaccinia intravenous immunoglobulin and intravenous tecovirimat
Authors: Mahtani Arun Umesh , Seelam Harshashree , Padda Inderbir , Mahmoud Mahmoud , D. Cuomo Joseph , Khalil Beshoy W. , Haider Muhammad , Khalil Ambreen , Elemam Azza , Nfonoyim Jay
Published: July 2023

We highlight a case of a 38‐year‐old immunocompromised man with untreated human immunodeficiency virus and Hepatitis C who presented with progressive soft tissue infection of the right foot despite appropriate antibiotic therapy. While he was admitted, the patient disclosed a recent diagnosis of mpox treated with oral tecovirimat. He subsequently developed worsening lesions over his entire body. In addition, a polymerase chain reaction of the wound on the right foot was positive for mpox virus, and the patient improved on treatment with intravenous tecovirimat and vaccinia immunoglobulin.
Advancing the association for humanistic counseling principles through the serious leisure perspective
Authors: Dieser Rodney B.
Published: July 2023

The serious leisure perspective (SLP) aligns with humanistic counseling principles. A most significant professional implication is that humanistic counselors can create optimal leisure lifestyle strategies linked to the AHC principles of discovering meaning and purpose, developing deep connections with people and nature, moving toward growth and change, maintaining a holistic approach to humanity, and developing creativity. Future research implications and practical steps that humanistic counselors can use in professional practice to connect the SLP to humanistic counseling principles are elucidated.
Kenward‐Roger–type corrections for inference methods of network meta‐analysis and meta‐regression
Authors: Noma Hisashi , Hamura Yasuyuki , Gosho Masahiko , Furukawa Toshi A.
Published: July 2023

Network meta‐analysis has been an essential methodology of systematic reviews for comparative effectiveness research. The restricted maximum likelihood (REML) method is one of the current standard inference methods for multivariate, contrast‐based meta‐analysis models, but recent studies have revealed the resultant confidence intervals of average treatment effect parameters in random‐effects models can seriously underestimate statistical errors; that is, the actual coverage probability of a true parameter cannot retain the nominal level (e.g., 95%). In this article, we provided improved inference methods for the network meta‐analysis and meta‐regression models using higher‐order asymptotic approximations based on the approach of Kenward and Roger (Biometrics 1997;53:983–997). We provided two corrected covariance matrix estimators for the REML estimator and improved approximations for its sample distribution using a t‐distribution with adequate degrees of freedom. All of the proposed procedures can be implemented using only simple matrix calculations. In simulation studies under various settings, the REML‐based Wald‐type confidence intervals seriously underestimated the statistical errors, especially in cases of small numbers of trials meta‐analyzed. By contrast, the proposed Kenward‐Roger–type inference methods consistently showed accurate coverage properties under all the settings considered in our experiments. We also illustrated the effectiveness of the proposed methods through applications to two real network meta‐analysis datasets.
Population adjusted‐indirect comparisons in health technology assessment: A methodological systematic review
Authors: Truong Bang , Tran Lan‐Anh T. , Le Tuan Anh , Pham Thi Thu , Vo Tat‐Thang
Published: July 2023

In health technology assessment (HTA), population‐adjusted indirect comparisons (PAICs) are increasingly considered to adjust for the difference in the target population between studies. We aim to assess the conduct and reporting of PAICs in recent HTA practice, by performing, a methodological systematic review of studies implementing PAICs from PubMed, EMBASE Classic, Embase/Ovid Medline All, and Cochrane databases from January 1, 2010 to Feb 13, 2023. Four independent researchers screened the titles, abstracts, and full‐texts of the identified records, then extracted data on methodological and reporting characteristics of 106 eligible articles. Most PAIC analyses (96.9%, n = 157) were conducted by (or received funding from) pharmaceutical companies. Prior to adjustment, 44.5% of analyses (n = 72) (partially) aligned the eligibility criteria of different studies to enhance the similarity of their target populations. In 37.0% of analyses (n = 60), the clinical and methodological heterogeneity across studies were extensively assessed. In 9.3% of analyses (n = 15), the quality (or bias) of individual studies was evaluated. Among 18 analyses using methods that required an outcome model specification, results of the model fitting procedure were adequately reported in three analyses (16.7%). These findings suggest that the conduct and reporting of PAICs are remarkably heterogeneous and suboptimal in current practice. More recommendations and guidelines on PAICs are thus warranted to enhance the quality of these analyses in the future.
Identification of regionalmarkers based on the flavor molecular matrix analysis of sauce‐aroma style baijiu
Authors: Huang He , Wu Yashuai , Chen Hao , Hou Yaxin , Wang Junshan , Hong Jiaxin , Zhao Dongrui , Sun Jinyuan , Huang Mingquan , Sun Baoguo
Published: July 2023

Background

Baijiu is a very complex system and its flavor substances are endogenous, influenced by raw materials, starter, production process, production region and other factors. The production region directly affects the composition of flavor substances and quality of baijiu. However, identification of baijiu region is challenging because the corresponding relationship between the production region and baijiu quality is not clear, and the identification of regionalmarkers is indeterminate. In this study, the differences in volatile components of sauce‐aroma style baijiu from four representative regions were investigated.

Results

A total of 94 volatile compounds were identified in samples tested. Additionally, it was verified that 35 potential flavor substances had important contributions to the aroma of sauce‐aroma style baijiu. Meanwhile, nine potential regionalmarkers were screened through multivariate analysis. Further, based on distribution of volatile compounds and the results of sensory evaluation combined with multivariate analysis, a molecular matrix and correlation network were established according to the results of addition experiments, which showed that six substances had a significant impact on the flavor of the tested samples.

Conclusion

Six key flavor substances (ethyl octanoate, ethyl 2‐methylpropanoate, propyl acetate, ethyl heptanoate, 2‐nonanone and butyl hexanoate) were considered as important regionalmarkers to effectively identify the production region of sauce‐aroma style baijiu. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Targeted Delivery of Anticancer Drug Loaded Charged PLGA Polymeric Nanoparticles Using Electrostatic Field
Authors: Miraghaie Seyyed Hossein , Zandi Ashkan , Davari Zahra , Mousavi‐kiasary Mohamad Sadegh , Saghafi Zohre , Gilani Ali , Kordehlachin Yasin , Shojaeian Fatemeh , Mamdouh Amir , Heydari Zahra , Dorkoosh Farid Abedin , Kaffashi Babak , Abdolahad Mohammad
Published: July 2023

Pure positive electrostatic charges (PPECs) show suppressive effect on the proliferation and metabolism of invasive cancer cells without affecting normal tissues. PPECs are used for the delivery of drug‐loaded polymeric nanoparticles (DLNs) capped with negatively charged poly(lactide‐co‐glycolide) (PLGA) and Poly(vinyl‐alcohol) PVA into the tumor site of mouse models. The charged patch is installed on top of the skin in the mouse models' tumor region, and the controlled selective release of the drug is assayed by biochemical, radiological, and histological experiments on both tumorized models and normal rats' livers. It is found that DLNs synthesized by PLGA show great attraction to PPECs due to their stable negative charges, which would not degrade immediately in blood. The burst and drug release after less than 48h of this synthesized DLNs are 10% and 50%, respectively. These compounds can deliver the loaded‐drug into the tumor site with the assistance of PPECs, and the targeted‐retarded release will take place. Hence, local therapy can be achieved with much lower drug concentration (conventional chemotherapy [2 mg kg−1] versus DLNs‐based chemotherapy [0.75 mg kg−1]) with negligible side effects in non‐targeted organs. PPECs have many potential clinical applications for advanced‐targeted chemotherapy with the lowest discernible side effects.
A footnote to a theorem of Kawamata
Authors: Mendes Lopes Margarida , Pardini Rita , Tirabassi Sofia
Published: July 2023

Kawamata has shown that the quasi‐Albanese map of a quasi‐projective variety with log‐irregularity equal to the dimension and log‐Kodaira dimension 0 is birational. In this note, we show that under these hypotheses the quasi‐Albanese map is proper in codimension 1 as conjectured by Iitaka.
The validity study of a channel‐based demand estimation ANP model
Authors: Salmani Yasamin , Partovi Fariborz Y.
Published: July 2023

This paper suggests a solution for validating an ANP model in multi‐channel retailing proposed by Salmani et al. (2018) through its application in the pet consumables industry. The purpose of the proposed ANP model is to develop a measurement for estimating the demand proportion attributed to each established sales channel. Utilizing an ANP model, channel selection customer criteria as well as the interrelations between channel structures in a multi‐channel setting are quantified. This paper applies a survey‐based study to collect data from random pet consumable customers. Using a compatibility measurement, per‐channel proportions of demand found by ANP are compared with actual data to examine the validity of the proposed model. The results of this study demonstrated the validity of the proposed ANP model applied in the pet consumables industry.
Does green credit financing mode with cap‐and‐trade scheme really benefit all members?
Authors: Ma Junhai , Liu Yuxin , Geng Liyan
Published: July 2023

There is a never‐ending debate about whether the cap‐and‐trade mechanism is a valid means of achieving carbon reduction. In this study, we examine it from the perspective of supply chain financing, as the cap‐and‐trade scheme appears to be an excellent solution to avoid the carbon emission requirements imposed by green credit financing services. We develop a theoretical framework for comparing three distinct kinds of financing modes: bank credit financing, green credit financing, and green credit financing with a cap‐and‐trade scheme. Based on Stackelberg game with stochastic demand, we then derive optimal outputs for the manufacturer and wholesale prices for the supplier. Counterintuitively, the green credit financing mode is less profitable for manufacturers with low investment in clean production due to stringent carbon emission requirements, yet it is advantageous for the supplier through a higher wholesale price. Conversely, the green credit financing combined with cap‐and‐trade scheme will result in a different situation in which the manufacturer will benefit from the green credit's lower interest rate, but the cap‐and‐trade mechanism will diminish the supplier's power in the Stackelberg game and reduce her profits. Finally, from the perspective of social welfare, the green credit financing mode with cap‐and‐trade scheme will not always benefit for the whole society. Even though it can improve the profit of the manufacturer and consumer surplus, it may lead to higher carbon emission and reduce profits of the supplier when the investment in clean production technology is limited.
Portfolio structures: Can they contribute to solving the low‐risk puzzle?
Authors: Hiller Tobias
Published: July 2023

This article expands on previous studies of the so‐called low‐risk puzzle with concepts from cooperative game theory. To allocate portfolio risk to single assets, previous studies used concepts such as the Shapley value. In these concepts, the marginal contributions of assets to risks of subsets of the portfolio are used to allocate portfolio risk to assets. In this article, beyond the marginal contributions, a structure on a set of assets is considered in the allocation of portfolio risk. This structure can model the branch, firm size or the region of the assets. Specifically, the Myerson value and the Spectrum value of cooperative game theory are applied. We show the application by means of a simulation study. In this context, considering an additional structure could enhance the analysis of the so‐called low‐risk puzzle.
Loneliness, depression and sleep quality among the type 2 diabetic patients during COVID‐19 local epidemic: A mediation analysis
Authors: Lu Yidan , Gao Mengzhao , Zhang Lin , Shi Min , Zhou Helian , Zhou Haoran , Che Hengying , Fei Xiaoyun , Chen Jingtao , Li Yuanzhen
Published: July 2023

Aims

To investigate loneliness, depression and sleep quality in patients with Type 2 Diabetes (T2DM) and to examine the mediating role of depression between loneliness and sleep quality among this group of patients with T2DM.

Design

A cross‐sectional study.

Methods

A group of T2DM patients was recruited from a tertiary hospital affiliated with a university in Wuhu City, Anhui Province from May to October 2021 by convenient sampling. Pearson correlation analysis and structural equation modelling were used for data analysis in this study.

Results

The direct effect of loneliness on sleep quality was not statistically significant, but the indirect effect of depression on sleep quality was statistically significant. Depression mediated the relationship between loneliness and sleep quality. Depression can affect emotional health and reduce sleep quality. We should reduce the loneliness of patients, prevent the occurrence of depression and improve the quality of sleep.
The role of prenatal violence exposure in the development of disparities in children's adiposity from birth to middle childhood
Authors: Rudd Kristen L. , Zhao Qi , Lisha Nadra E. , Graff J. Carolyn , Norona‐Zhou Amanda , Roubinov Danielle S. , Barrett Emily S. , Juarez Paul , Carroll Kecia N. , Karr Catherine J. , Sathyanarayana Sheela , Mason W. Alex , LeWinn Kaja Z. , Bush Nicole R.
Published: July 2023

Objective

This study examined whether women's exposure to multiple types of violence during childhood and pregnancy was associated with children's BMI trajectories and whether parenting quality moderated those associations.

Methods

A cohort of 1288 women who gave birth between 2006 and 2011 self‐reported their exposure to childhood traumatic events, intimate partner violence (IPV), and residential address (linked to geocoded index of violent crime) during pregnancy. Children's length/height and weight at birth and at age 1, 2, 3, 4 to 6, and 8 years were converted to BMI z scores. Observed mother–child interactions were behaviorally coded during a dyadic teaching task.

Results

Covariate‐adjusted growth mixture models identified three trajectories of children's BMI from birth to 8 years old: Low‐Stable (17%), Moderate‐Stable (59%), and High‐Rising (22%). Children whose mothers experienced more types of IPV during pregnancy were more likely to be in the High‐Rising than the Low‐Stable (odds ratio [OR] = 2.62; 95% CI: 1.27–5.41) trajectory. Children whose mothers lived in higher crime neighborhoods were more likely to be in the High‐Rising than the Low‐Stable (OR = 1.11; 95% CI:1.03–1.17) or Moderate‐Stable trajectories (OR = 1.08; CI: 1.03–1.13). Main effects of childhood traumatic events and moderation by parenting were not detected.

Conclusions

Maternal experiences of violence during pregnancy increase children's risk for developing overweight, highlighting intergenerational transmission of social adversity in children's health.
Disparities in household material hardship, financial toxicity, and income loss in pediatric cancer
Authors: Evans Erica M. , Lin Jackie , Sanchez‐Alvarez Jacklyn , Agrawal Anurag K. , Winestone Lena E.
Published: July 2023

Background

Based on previous reports of disparities in financial burden following a cancer diagnosis, this study aims to characterize mechanisms of disparities experienced by caregivers of children with cancer, including the impact of work flexibility and social support.

Methods

Cross‐sectional survey (in English or Spanish) of caregivers of children with cancer that assessed household material hardship (HMH), financial toxicity, and income change.

Results

Of 156 caregivers surveyed, 32% were Hispanic and 32% were low income. Hispanic caregivers were more likely to report HMH and financial toxicity compared to non‐Hispanic White and Asian (HMH: 57% vs. 21% vs. 19%, p < .001; financial toxicity: 73% vs. 52% vs. 53%, p = .07). Low‐ and middle‐income caregivers were more likely to experience HMH and financial toxicity compared to high‐income caregivers (HMH: 68% low vs. 38% middle vs. 8.7% high, p < .001; financial toxicity: 81% vs. 68% vs. 44%, p < .001). All income categories demonstrated significant increases in HMH 1 year after diagnosis. Seventeen percent reported more than 40% income loss, more of whom were low income than high income (27% vs. 12%, p = .20). Work flexibility and social support were associated with income and financial toxicity.

Conclusion

HMH, financial toxicity, and income loss are prevalent after a child's cancer diagnosis, suggesting that screening should be incorporated into routine care. This financial burden disproportionately affects low‐income and Hispanic caregivers. Further research is needed to elucidate the roles of work flexibility and social support, how safety net services are utilized by families, and how best to support families with HMH.
Statistical analysis of the effect of varying material and manufacturing conditions on the mechanical properties of high‐density polyethylene/layered double hydroxide composites
Authors: Botha Natasha , Coetzer Roelof , Inglis Helen M. , Labuschagne F. J. W. J.
Published: July 2023

Polymers are used in various industrial applications due to their ease of production, light weight, and ductility. Fillers such as clays are added to polymers to improve a range of factors such as material processing, thermal properties, fire retardance and cost. However, adding clays may negatively impact the mechanical performance of the composite. In addition, manufacturing parameters, for example, number of extrusions, press time, and so forth may also have an influence on the resulting composite system. This study performs a statistical analysis on a set of previously obtained experimental results, which investigated the influence of various manufacturing, material, and testing parameters on the composite mechanical properties. Exploratory data and statistical analysis techniques are applied to the historical tensile test data to gain insight into the influence on mechanical properties as well as the relationships and interactions between the parameters. Specifically, it is shown that clay loading does not have a statistically significant effect on the composite mechanical properties, which is contrary to literature. Another surprising result is the poor performance of the clay that is compatible with high‐density polyethylene compared to the clay that is compatible with poly vinyl chloride. The contribution of this paper is to demonstrate the usefulness of applying statistical analysis on a large volume of data to understand the diverse correlations between the different variables.
Structure of plasma deposited acrylic acid‐allyl alcohol copolymers
Authors: Fahmy Alaa , Omar Hassan , Szymoniak Paulina , Schönhals Andreas , Friedrich Jörg Florian
Published: July 2023

Copolymer thin films with two types of functional groups have excellent performance as sensors, for example. The formation and deposition of allyl alcohol‐acrylic acid copolymer films by pulsed high frequency plasma is a complex process. As usual, the chemical composition of the top surface of the films was investigated by XPS and FTIR measurements. Furthermore, contact angle measurements with water were used to characterise the hydrophilicity and wettability of the polymer films. After plasma deposition, a significant decrease in functional groups (OH and COOH) was observed compared to the classically copolymerised equivalent. The remaining functional groups, i.e. the majority of these groups, were sufficient for application as sensor layers. Segmental mobility and conductivity, important for sensor applications, were analysed by broadband dielectric spectroscopy.
Measuring transversus abdominis activity using pressure biofeedback unit—A technical report
Authors: Raj Vijay Samuel , Thomas Mincy
Published: July 2023

Background and Purpose

Pressure biofeedback is a tool that can detect the movement of a structure and may be used as an indicator of muscle function. It's widely used to measure the transversus abdominis (TrA) muscle activity. Pressure biofeedback (PBU) monitors the abdominal wall movement by measuring the pressure change during abdominal hollowing and can indirectly evaluate the TrA muscle function, which is considered as a valuable tool. The evaluation of the training of core muscles, including the transversus abdominis, requires a reliable outcome. Various methods using different positions are used to evaluate the transversus abdominis muscle function. However, it is noted that a standard way of evaluation and training still needs to be improved in research and clinical practice. This technical report discusses the optimal position and technique to measure the TrA muscle activity using PBU, with discussions on the merits and demerits of the body positions.

Methods

The technical report is presented with a literature review of the PBU measurement of TrA and through observation in the clinical practice. The evaluation methods of TrA, including the position to activate and isolate, are discussed in detail.

Results

Training core muscles does not imply TrA activation, and evaluating isolated TrA and multifidus is essential before intervention. The abdominal drawing‐in maneuver effectively activates TrA in various evaluation positions of the body, but when using PBUs, it would be valid in a prone position.

Discussion

Different body positions are practiced to train TrA and core muscles using PBU, commonly adopted by practice are in supine. It's noted that most of the studies lack in establishing the effectiveness of the position in evaluating the TrA muscle activity using PBU. The need for insight into an appropriate technique for evaluating TrA activity is addressed in this technical report. This report presents key points on the complete technique and concludes that the prone position is superior to other positions and recommended for measuring and recording the TrA activity using a PBU.
The impact of previous inguinal mesh hernioplasty on oncological and patient‐reported outcomes following radical prostatectomy
Authors: Westhofen Thilo , Bensel Moritz , Schlenker Boris , Becker Armin , Stief Christian G. , Kretschmer Alexander , Buchner Alexander
Published: July 2023

Background

The impact of previous inguinal mesh hernioplasty (MH) with non‐resorbable mesh prostheses on surgical performance of radical prostatectomy (RP) has been controversially discussed, with unknown impact of MH on oncologic outcomes and health‐related quality of life (HRQOL) following RP. We therefore aimed to assess the influence of previous MH on metastasis‐free survival (MFS), biochemical recurrence‐free survival (BRFS), and HRQOL following RP.

Methods

We identified 344 patients with previous MH prior RP within our prospectively assessed institutional database of 6275 patients treated with RP for PC (2008–2019). A 1:3 propensity‐score matched analysis of 1345 men (n = 319 previous MH, n = 1026 no previous MH) was conducted. Primary endpoint was MFS and secondary endpoints were BRFS and HRQOL (based on EORTC QLQ‐C30). Binary logistic regression, Kaplan–Meier, and Cox regression models tested the effect of previous MH on MFS, BRFS, and HRQOL (p < 0.05).

Results

Median follow‐up was 47 months. Patients with previous MH had significantly lower 5‐year MFS (72% vs. 85%, p < 0.001) and 5‐year BRFS estimates (43% vs. 57%, p < 0.001). In multivariate analysis, previous MH was confirmed as an independent predictor for impaired MFS (hazard ratio [HR]: 3.772, 95% CI 1.12–12.64, p = 0.031) and BRFS (HR: 1.862, 95% CI: 1.22–2.85, p = 0.004). These results held true if stratified for surgical approach or limited to patients with successful PLND. We found significantly shorter median time to continence recovery for patients without previous MH (p = 0.001) without significant differences in total continence recovery rates, erectile function recovery, and HRQOL.

Conclusions

Our findings show an impaired oncologic outcome for patients with previous MH following RP with no significant differences regarding continence recovery, erectile function recovery, and general HRQOL.