bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Companion animals and profiles of peer social behavior in adolescence
Authors: Halbreich Eli D. , Callina Kristina , King Erin K. , Mueller Megan K.
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Relationships with companion animals have been associated with higher levels of prosocial behavior and lower levels of socioemotional difficulties for children and adolescents. Companion animals may be supportive of developing prosocial behavior in youth through practice with positive social interactions and the development of empathy and reciprocity skills. The goal of this study was to use a person‐centered approach to investigate if living with a pet (including pet species) is associated with profiles of adolescent peer social behaviors (i.e., prosocial, aggressive), and size of their peer network.

Methods

This study used data from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) Study®, a large, nationally representative data set of American adolescents.

Results

In a cross‐sectional sample of 5218 adolescents, we found that youth clustered into four different distinct profiles of peer social behavior. Female youth living with dogs were less likely to be in the High Aggression profile as compared to youth without pets or youth with other types of pets. However, having a pet was not associated with whether youth were in the profiles characterized by prosocial behaviors or size of peer network.

Conclusions

Overall, future research should explore how gender intersects with companion animal interactions—both in terms of frequency of interactions as well as relationship quality/emotional attachment—as well as examine these relationships over time to assess causality.
Detection of melanin influence on skin samples based on Raman spectroscopy and optical coherence tomography dual‐modal approach
Authors: Wu Di , Kukk Anatoly Fedorov , Roth Bernhard
Published: May 2023

Melanoma is responsible for more than half of the deaths related to skin cancer in the last few decades. A dual‐modality optical biopsy system with Raman spectroscopy and optical coherence tomography approach was built with the goal of achieving noninvasive skin measurement. To mimic melanoma and evaluate the effect of melanin on skin, models have been created by dissolving synthetic melanin in dimethyl sulfoxide and adding it to fresh skin samples. Compared to the untreated samples, morphological images showed that the imaging depth on melanin‐treated skin has been increased from 250 μm to 350 μm due to the optical clearing effect of the DMSO solvent, and Raman analysis revealed that relative spectral intensities of melanin‐treated samples were lower in the amide‐I and CH2‐deformation bands, and higher in the CH2‐twist and C–C stretch bands. Using machine learning for skin type classification, an accuracy of 89% is achieved.
Improvement of the enantioselectivity of lipase catalyzed reactions with deoxycholic acid‐based molecular tweezers
Authors: Yan Hongding , Huang Jing , Jia Yanrong , Ma Mengxu , Ni Huagang , Xia Min , Ye Peng , Zhang Juan
Published: May 2023

BACKGROUND

Lipase as a hydrolase has important applications in the synthesis of chiral drugs. Based on the special interfacial activity of lipase, bile salt as a biosurfactant can effectively improve the catalytic activity of lipase.

RESULTS

In this work, the strong selective recognition of the molecular tweezers and guest molecules helps improve the guest molecule concentration near the lipase catalytic center. However, this strong recognition will also make it difficult for the guest molecules to break away from the molecular tweezers. Therefore, there is an optimal value for this recognition that can effectively improve the chiral resolution effect of lipase.

CONCLUSIONS

The two hydroxyl groups on deoxycholic acid were modified to prepare deoxycholic acid‐based molecular tweezers with two ‘arms’ and one ‘crack.’ The recognition performance between the molecular tweezers and amino acid methyl ester was determined by UV spectrophotometry. According to the binding constant, Ka, and free energy, −ΔG0, a complex formed between the deoxycholic acid‐based molecular tweezers (host) and amino acid methyl ester (guest) due to chiral recognition. Molecular tweezers were subsequently mixed with porcine pancreatic lipase (PPL) and candida rugosa lipase (CRL), respectively, to catalyze the transesterification of racemic tryptophan methyl ester. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
1‐Butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium chloride involved in sequential extraction of lignite to separate group components and its effect on functional groups of residues
Authors: Liang Chong , Zhao Wei , Cui Mingyu , Wang Dingkai , Liu Xutang , Dong Linyang , Wei Xianyong
Published: May 2023

BACKGROUND

In view of the low economic benefit for direct utilization of lignite, the ionic liquid 1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium chloride ([Bmim]Cl) has been used to extract Inner Mongolia lignite (IML) in order to efficiently separate lignite, develop the technology for clean and value‐added utilization of lignite, and alleviate the enormous pressure of ecological environment pollution. Subsequently, sequential extraction of IML by [Bmim]Cl/N‐methyl‐2‐pyrrolidone (NMP), acetonitrile and ether was employed to separate group components in lignite.

RESULTS

Functional group results show that hydrogen bonds of IML including OHether, COOH dimers and SHN, and weak covalent bonds such as CalO, CalN, CalS and SS, can be cleaved by [Bmim]Cl. Extraction experiments using mixed solvents of [Bmim]Cl and NMP or water indicate that the synergistic effect of NMP and [Bmim]Cl plays a vital role in increasing lignite extraction yield, but for water an opposite effect is observed. Importantly, the group components extracted by [Bmim]Cl/NMP and consecutively by acetonitrile and ether show a clear difference in composition according to gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. Specifically, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and long‐chain alkanes are present in the acetonitrile phase, with relative content of 8% and 88%, respectively, while most of esters, aliphatic acids and phenols are dissolved in ether with proportions of 35.24%, 35.53% and 16.57%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

This work demonstrates that sequential extraction of lignite by [Bmim]Cl/NMP, acetonitrile and ether may provide new insights for the separation of group components and clean utilization of lignite in industry. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
A systematic review and meta‐analysis of prevalence and clinical features of upper gastrointestinal (UGI) tract Crohn's disease in adults compared to non‐UGI types
Authors: Tamizifar Babak , Adibi Peyman , Hadipour Maryam , Mohamadi Vahid
Published: May 2023

Background and Aim

Crohn's disease is an inflammatory condition that affects the gastrointestinal (GI) system. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of upper gastrointestinal Crohn's disease (UGICD) and compare its features to non‐UGICD types.

Methods

We conducted a systematic search in the databases PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar. The heterogeneity of prevalence estimates was examined, subgroup analyses were carried out, and meta‐analyses were conducted using random‐effects modeling. Prognostic data were qualitatively reviewed and combined.

Results

Two‐thousand nine‐hundred and forty studies were retrieved and 32 studies were included in the final analysis. Pooled prevalence of UGICD was 15% (CI: 11–18%) among 14 509 patients. UGICD prevalence did not show any significant increase with time (P = 0.45). The most prevalent (38%, CI: 30–47%) behavior of UGICD was B1 (nonstricturing‐nonpenetrating), while the most common concurrent location was L3 (ileocolon) with a prevalence of 47% (CI: 34–59%). UGICD patients had higher stricturing phenotype (B2) compared to non‐UGICD (0.38 vs 0.30; P = 0.03). There was no significant difference in the prevalence of UGICD between patients classified according to the Montreal or Vienna classification. Stricturing phenotype was more common among Asian patients compared to Western patients (0.44 vs 0.24; P < 0.001). UGICD was a risk factor for surgery and drug therapy and was associated with an aggressive course of the disease and more resections. Pooled prevalence of UGICD was 15%.

Conclusion

Nonstricturing‐nonpenetrating type was the most prevalent UGICD. UGICD patients had more complications and worse outcomes compared to non‐UGICD patients.
How female entrepreneurship may boost business innovation and internationalization
Authors: Machado Diana , Braga Vítor , Correia Aldina , Braga Alexandra , Silva Carina
Published: May 2023

This study sought to analyze the role female entrepreneurship plays in the internationalization and innovation process of firms. Additionally, this study aims to contribute to a better understanding of how the countries of Europe and Central Asia are grouped in terms of female entrepreneurship. Our analysis used secondary data collected from the Enterprise Surveys—The World Bank database to which multivariate statistical analysis were applied. The results suggest a non‐significant statistical relationship between female entrepreneurship and internationalization, which may be explained by high capital access constraints female entrepreneurs face. There are cultural and social barriers that affect the decision of women entrepreneurs to internationalize. Our results also show interdependence between internationalization and innovation. The results also suggest that the countries of Europe and Central Asia can be divided into two clusters. The difference between the two clusters can be justified by the role of women in the countries concerned. The originality of this article is related to the analysis of the possible contribution of women entrepreneurship to the internationalization of firms, which is still an understudied area, because of the exclusion of women entrepreneurs from the market due to the male norms that dominate the socioeconomic contexts. Additionally, the findings of this research can contribute to the implementation of a strategic policy framework to encourage female entrepreneurship.
Natural occurrence of ustiloxins in rice from five provinces in China and the removal efficiencies of different milling steps
Authors: Hu Zheng , Qian Shen'an , Fan Kai , Yu Yinan , Liu Xing , Liu Hao , Meng Jiajia , Zhao Zhihui , Han Zheng
Published: May 2023

BACKGROUND

The widespread incidence of “false smut” disease in rice has caused extensive ustiloxin contamination around the world. Until now there has been a lack of knowledge regarding the natural occurrence of ustiloxins in paddy. The development of efficient removal methods is also still a challenge that remains unexplored.

RESULTS

In the current study, three main ustiloxins – ustiloxin A (UA), ustiloxin B (UB), and ustiloxin G (UG) – were determined simultaneously by ultraperformance liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC–MS/MS) in 206 paddy samples collected in 2021 from five rice‐producing provinces in China. The predominant ustiloxin was UA with an occurrence of 46.1% and an average concentration of 49.71 μg kg−1. This was followed by UB (31.1%, 13.31 μg kg−1) and UG (18.4%, 9.19 μg kg−1). No targeted ustiloxins were detected in white rice samples randomly collected from supermarkets in Shanghai. To reveal the causes, two approaches were tested for the removal of the ustiloxins: most of the targeted ustiloxins (>93%) were removed in brown rice by husking and, subsequently, all targeted ustiloxins (100%) were removed by whitening.

CONCLUSION

A wide distribution of ustiloxins was discovered in paddy samples in this study. The UA contaminations were significantly different depending on their origin, with the highest occurrence in paddy from Shanghai and Jiangsu, southeast coast provinces in China. Contamination by UG was also found in paddy for the first time and was strongly correlated with those of UA and UB. A combination of husking and whitening has been verified to be a practicable and promising way to ensure efficient removal and food safety. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Identification of Surgical Uterine Prolapse in Premenopausal Patients With Clinical or Ultrasound Criteria? A Multicenter Comparative Study
Authors: García‐Mejido José Antonio , Martín‐Martinez Alicia , González‐Diaz Enrique , Núñez‐Matas María José , Fernández‐Palacín Ana , Carballo‐Rastrilla Sonia , Fernández‐Fernández Camino , Sainz‐Bueno José Antonio
Published: May 2023

Objectives

It is unknown whether diagnosing uterine prolapse (UP) via ultrasound or surgical criteria is superior. Our objective is to determine whether the diagnostic capacity of ultrasound with surgical criteria differs from that of surgical criteria only.

Methods

This was a multicenter prospective observational study with 54 premenopausal patients with surgical criteria for a dysfunctional pelvic floor pathology who were consecutively recruited for 1 year. Clinical UP with surgical criteria was defined when UP stage II–IV was identified (during pelvic floor consultation), and UP diagnosed by ultrasound with surgical criteria was established when a difference ≥15 mm was found between rest and Valsalva applied to the pubis‐uterine fundus. The sensitivity, specificity and positive and negative predictive values were determined to evaluate clinical and ultrasound methodologies as diagnostic tests.

Results

UP diagnosed by ultrasound with surgical criteria presented better sensitivity (78.57 vs 35.71%), specificity (92.11 vs 81.58%), positive predictive value (61.83 vs 23.99%), and negative predictive value (96.35 vs 11.37%) than UP diagnosed by surgical criteria only.

Conclusion

Ultrasound with surgical criteria is superior to surgical criteria alone when diagnosing UP.
Prognostic value of neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio in gastric cancer patients treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Li Li‐Li , Pan Li‐Sha
Published: May 2023

The neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (NLR) has been extensively studied in patients with gastric cancer (GC) treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), although the results are controversial. Therefore, we performed the present meta‐analysis to systematically assess the correlation between NLR and prognosis and clinicopathological factors in GC patients undergoing treatment with ICIs. Among the electronic databases, PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and Cochrane Library were thoroughly searched. To estimate the prognostic value of NLR for progression‐free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS), hazard ratios (HRs) were calculated, and their 95% confidence intervals were calculated. This meta‐analysis included 10 studies with 830 patients. Based on the pooled data, a high NLR was associated with poor OS in GC patients receiving ICIs (HR = 2.13, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.70–2.66, p < 0.001). Elevated NLR was a significant biomarker for worse PFS in GC patients treated with ICIs (HR = 1.74, 95% CI = 1.22–2.48, p = 0.002). There was, however, no significant correlation between NLR and sex, age, and Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group Performance Status (PS) of the ECOG, differentiation, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) status, or PD‐L1 status in GC patients treated with ICIs. High NLR before treatment was associated with poor OS and PFS in GC patients treated with ICIs, according to our meta‐analysis. NLR is an effective biomarker for evaluating the prognosis of GC patients receiving ICIs and provide more valuable information for treatment decisions in the era of immunotherapy for GC.
Informal camping on the margin of wild country: Early indicators of degradation and potential for some positive nature conservation outcomes
Authors: Adedokun Busola Christianah , McHenry Melinda Therese , Kirkpatrick James Barrie
Published: May 2023

Wild areas provide a wide array of recreational opportunities in nature, including informal camping. We examined the potential for land degradation associated with informal campsites accessible by vehicle on the margins of the wild country on the Central Plateau of Tasmania, where alpine and sub‐alpine ecosystems with numerous glacial and periglacial wetlands sit within the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area. There were no integrated analyses of the biotic and abiotic effects of informal camping on the distinctive ecosystems of Tasmania's high mountains and no work looking specifically at flyfishers campsites from anywhere in the world. We hypothesised that the impacts of informal camping on the vegetation communities, soil properties and native animals would be deleterious. We assessed impacts by comparing trampled areas and fire pits in ten campsites with geomorphologically similar adjacent controls. We found that informal camping resulted in colonisation by different plant species, greater soil compaction, more acid soils and decreased volumetric water content than control areas. Soils in 16 illegal firepits had higher pH, electrical conductivity and lower water content than the adjacent unburned ground. Visual amenity was also reduced by litter. More positively, campsite vegetation had a higher coverage of native herbs and grasses than the controls and attracted native animals, including a threatened iconic carnivore, the Tasmania devil (Sarcophilus harrisii). Informal camping may offset soil damage by helping endangered animals and plants at the current visitor rate. However, more informal campers may degrade world heritage values.
Automated Motor Tic Detection: A Machine Learning Approach
Authors: Brügge Nele Sophie , Sallandt Gesine Marie , Schappert Ronja , Li Frédéric , Siekmann Alina , Grzegorzek Marcin , Bäumer Tobias , Frings Christian , Beste Christian , Stenger Roland , Roessner Veit , Fudickar Sebastian , Handels Heinz , Münchau Alexander
Published: May 2023

Background

Video‐based tic detection and scoring is useful to independently and objectively assess tic frequency and severity in patients with Tourette syndrome. In trained raters, interrater reliability is good. However, video ratings are time‐consuming and cumbersome, particularly in large‐scale studies. Therefore, we developed two machine learning (ML) algorithms for automatic tic detection.

Objective

The aim of this study was to evaluate the performances of state‐of‐the‐art ML approaches for automatic video‐based tic detection in patients with Tourette syndrome.

Methods

We used 64 videos of n = 35 patients with Tourette syndrome. The data of six subjects (15 videos with ratings) were used as a validation set for hyperparameter optimization. For the binary classification task to distinguish between tic and no‐tic segments, we established two different supervised learning approaches. First, we manually extracted features based on landmarks, which served as input for a Random Forest classifier (Random Forest). Second, a fully automated deep learning approach was used, where regions of interest in video snippets were input to a convolutional neural network (deep neural network).

Results

Tic detection F1 scores (and accuracy) were 82.0% (88.4%) in the Random Forest and 79.5% (88.5%) in the deep neural network approach.

Conclusions

ML algorithms for automatic tic detection based on video recordings are feasible and reliable and could thus become a valuable assessment tool, for example, for objective tic measurements in clinical trials. ML algorithms might also be useful for the differential diagnosis of tics. © 2023 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Analysis of a diffusive host–pathogen epidemic model with two‐stage mechanism in a spatially heterogeneous environment
Authors: Lu Han , Wang Jinliang
Published: May 2023

Due to the spatial heterogeneity present in many aspects of disease transmission, the rate of transmission of infectious diseases, human birth/mortality rate, and the mobility ability of infected humans should be different in different geographical locations. On the other hand, infected humans may exhibit distinct differences in symptoms during the different stages of the disease transmission. This paper aims to study threshold dynamics of a reaction–diffusion host–pathogen model governed by two‐stage mechanism and no flux boundary condition. In the model, we use bilinear and saturated incidence mechanism to model the interactions between host populations and pathogens and assume that (i) the parameters are spatially dependent and (ii) infected individuals in the first stage can random walk, while in the second stage, the diffusion rates are neglected. By carrying out strict analysis, the paper establishes the threshold‐type results with the basic reproduction number. Specifically, in a homogeneous case that all parameters are constants, we establish the global attractivity of the endemic equilibrium. To investigate the effects of small or large diffusion rates of susceptible individuals on the disease transmission in a heterogeneous environment, we explore the asymptotic profile of positive steady state whenever it exists. Our numerical results validate the theoretical results and indicate the importance of the infected humans in the second stage and pathogens in the environment in disease transmission, which greatly contribute to disease spread in a bounded domain and should not be ignored.
Decoupled Crank–Nicolson LeapFrog method for the evolution Boussinesq equations
Authors: Jia Xiaofeng , Feng Hui
Published: May 2023

This paper presents decoupled second‐order accurate algorithm based on Crank–Nicolson LeapFrog (CNLF) scheme for the evolution Boussinesq equations. The proposed algorithm deals with the spatial discretization by finite element method and treat the temporal discretization by CNLF method. For the nonlinear term in the Boussinesq equations, the semi‐implicit method is used. Unconditional stability and error estimate of the numerical algorithm are proven. Some numerical tests are presented to justify the theoretical analysis.
Patch antenna with low cross‐polarization using loading technique
Authors: Zhang Jing‐Yi , Zhang Jin‐Dong , Wu Wen , Fang Da‐Gang
Published: May 2023

In this article, a low cross‐polarized patch antenna is proposed with simple loading techniques. A metal block is set next to the patch and a coupling fringing field generated by the block compensates for the fringing field distribution asymmetry of the patch, resulting in a lower cross‐polarization. In addition, a shorting pin is loaded to further improve polarization purity. To demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed scheme, prototypes of the proposed antenna with specific parameters were fabricated and tested. The measured cross‐polarized level can be reduced to below −30 dB, which is greatly lower than that of the traditional patch.
Fully automated measurement of intracranial CSF and brain parenchyma volumes in pediatric hydrocephalus by segmentation of clinical MRI studies
Authors: Russo Carmela , Pirozzi Maria Agnese , Mazio Federica , Cascone Daniele , Cicala Domenico , De Liso Maria , Nastro Anna , Covelli Eugenio Maria , Cinalli Giuseppe , Quarantelli Mario
Published: May 2023

Background

Brain parenchyma (BP) and intracranial cerebrospinal fluid (iCSF) volumes measured by fully automated segmentation of clinical brain MRI studies may be useful for the diagnosis and follow‐up of pediatric hydrocephalus. However, previously published segmentation techniques either rely on dedicated sequences, not routinely used in clinical practice, or on spatial normalization, which has limited accuracy when severe brain distortions, such as in hydrocephalic patients, are present.

Purpose

We developed a fully automated method to measure BP and iCSF volumes from clinical brain MRI studies of pediatric hydrocephalus patients, exploiting the complementary information contained in T2‐ and T1‐weighted images commonly used in clinical practice.

Methods

The proposed procedure, following skull‐stripping of the combined volumes, performed using a multiparametric method to obtain a reliable definition of the inner skull profile, maximizes the CSF‐to‐parenchyma contrast by dividing the T2w‐ by the T1w‐ volume after full‐scale dynamic rescaling, thus allowing separation of iCSF and BP through a simple thresholding routine.

Results

Validation against manual tracing on 23 studies (four controls and 19 hydrocephalic patients) showed excellent concordance (ICC > 0.98) and spatial overlap (Dice coefficients ranging from 77.2% for iCSF to 96.8% for intracranial volume). Accuracy was comparable to the intra‐operator reproducibility of manual segmentation, as measured in 14 studies processed twice by the same experienced neuroradiologist. Results of the application of the algorithm to a dataset of 63 controls and 57 hydrocephalic patients (19 with parenchymal damage), measuring volumes’ changes with normal development and in hydrocephalic patients, are also reported for demonstration purposes.

Conclusions

The proposed approach allows fully automated segmentation of BP and iCSF in clinical studies, also in severely distorted brains, enabling to assess age‐ and disease‐related changes in intracranial tissue volume with an accuracy comparable to expert manual segmentation.
Nitsche's method for a Robin boundary value problem in a smooth domain
Authors: Chiba Yuki , Saito Norikazu
Published: May 2023

We prove several optimal‐order error estimates for a finite‐element method applied to an inhomogeneous Robin boundary value problem (BVP) for the Poisson equation defined in a smooth bounded domain in , . The boundary condition is weakly imposed using Nitsche's method. The Robin BVP is interpreted as the classical penalty method with the penalty parameter . The optimal choice of the mesh size relative to is a non‐trivial issue. This paper carefully examines the dependence of on error estimates. Our error estimates require no unessential regularity assumptions on the solution. Numerical examples are also reported to confirm our results.
Parental Experiences With Access to Care for Obstructive Sleep‐Disordered Breathing: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Pecha Phayvanh P. , Nicholas Jungbauer Walter , Ruggiero Kenneth J. , Nietert Paul , Melvin Cathy L. , Ford Marvella E.
Published: May 2023

Objective

Despite evidence‐based guidelines for obstructive sleep‐disordered breathing (SDB), recent studies continue to highlight treatment inequities. We used qualitative research methods to examine parental facilitators and barriers to SDB treatment.

Study Design

Qualitative interviews.

Setting

Tertiary care center.

Methods

Semistructured interviews were conducted (January‐April 2022) with parents of children with SDB who underwent tonsillectomies to understand the processes of SDB detection and accessing specialty care. Interviews were conducted until thematic saturation was reached and coded using NVivo software.

Results

Of the 17 parents who completed the key informant interviews, 6 (35%) were of non‐Hispanic black race, and 3 (17.6%) interviews were conducted in Spanish. Parents noted that the more knowledge their primary care provider (PCP) had about SDB, the easier it was to obtain a diagnostic workup (41%). The most common barrier included difficulty obtaining a specialist (otolaryngology or sleep medicine) referral from their PCP and encountering providers who were dismissive of parent‐reported symptoms related to SDB, leading them to seek a second opinion or self‐refer (53%). Medicaid coverage was a strong facilitator to receipt of care (59%). Three (17.6%) parents noted alienation in the process due to racial bias or language barriers.

Conclusion

Parental interviews revealed that facilitators of SDB treatment included high clinician knowledge and perceived importance of SDB as well as Medicaid insurance which decreased financial strain. Parents also cited the attainment of referrals as a significant barrier to obtaining specialty evaluation. These findings identify potential modifiable areas to tailor future interventions for timely and equitable SDB care.
Porous Materials for Atmospheric Water Harvesting
Authors: Zhang Shuai , Fu Jingru , Xing Guolong , Zhu Weidong , Ben Teng
Published: May 2023

Atmospheric Water Harvesting (AWH) using porous adsorbents is emerging as a promising solution to combat water shortage. Thus, a clearer understanding of the developing trends and optimization strategies of different porous adsorbents can be extremely helpful. Therefore, in this concept, the different types of porous adsorbents and AWH devices are briefly introduced with a focus on the factors that influence the static and kinetic properties of porous adsorbents and their respective optimization strategies. In addition, the fast transport characteristics of water molecules in micropores are studied from the perspective of superfluidity as part of the analysis of the kinetic properties of porous adsorbents. Finally, the future development of porous materials for AWH and the accompanying challenges are summarized.
Synthesis of a novel boron‐containing hyperbranched benzoxazine and its flame‐retardant properties in copolymer with epoxy resin
Authors: Cheng Jia‐Xin , Cai Wan‐An , Wang Zhi‐Cheng , Dayo Abdul Qadeer , Yuan Zhi‐Gang , Liu Wen‐Bin , Wang Jun , Pan Zhong‐Cheng
Published: May 2023

A novel boron‐containing hyperbranched benzoxazine (HB‐B) was synthesized from the reaction of triethanolamine borate (BAE), bisphenol‐A, and paraformaldehyde via Mannich condensation. The chemical structures of BAE and HB‐B were characterized by Fourier transform infrared (FT‐IR) and hydrogen nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR). Afterward, the boron‐containing hyperbranched benzoxazine/epoxy resin copolymers (E51/HB‐B) were prepared. The curing behavior of ‐B and E51/HB‐B was studied by FT‐IR and differential scanning calorimeter (DSC). The thermal stability and flame retardancy properties of the cured HB‐B and E51/HB‐B were evaluated by thermogravimetric analyzer (TGA), limited oxygen index (LOI), UL94 rating test, and microscale combustibility calorimeter experiments (MCC). The initial thermal decomposition temperature and glass transition temperature steadily dropped with increasing HB‐B content, while the char yield kept rising. The LOI value of the E51/HB‐B‐12 wt% was 31.8%, meeting the UL94 V‐0 specification. The result of heat release capacity (HRC) decreased by 20.4%. Moreover, the mechanical properties were also improved, and the tensile strength of E51/HB‐B copolymer was increased by 88.5%. Finally, the fracture morphology of E51/HB‐B was characterized by SEM.
The Toronto nomogram: A Bayesian meta‐regression derived prenatal ultrasound index to predict lower urinary tract obstruction and prune belly syndrome
Authors: Rickard Mandy , Kim Jin Kyu , Van Mieghem Tim , Shinar Shiri , McKay Ashlene , Santos Joana Dos , Brownrigg Natasha , Keefe Daniel T. , Lorenzo Armando J. , Chua Michael
Published: May 2023

Introduction

A nomogram for predicting the diagnosis of lower urinary tract obstruction (LUTO) based on an antenatal ultrasound index generated from a Bayesian Meta‐regression analysis has been in development and noted with superior diagnostic accuracy compared to the keyhole sign (KHS). We aim to assess the accuracy of the nomogram in expanded diagnostic utilization to predict LUTO.

Methodology

The validation of the nomogram for expanded diagnostic utilization was based on data from a prospective institutional antenatal clinic database between January 2020 and June 2022. Diagnostic accuracy indices were determined for confirmed postnatal diagnosis of LUTO or prune belly syndrome (PBS). Receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curves were generated to compare the area under the curve (AUC) of the nomogram versus KHS.

Results

Based on 84 male fetuses with antenatal ultrasound of moderate‐severe hydronephrosis (PUV n = 15, PBS n = 4), the KHS had 26.3% (95%CI 9.1–51.2) sensitivity and 100% (95%CI 94.4%–100%) specificity, with 14 false‐negatives. The nomogram showed a 84.2 (95%CI 60.4%–96.6%) sensitivity and 95.4 (95%CI 87.1%–99%) specificity with three false‐positives. The nomogram also had a superior AUC compared to KHS (0.98 vs. 0.63).

Conclusion

The nomogram can be used as a valuable tool to trigger further postnatal screening and provide individualized risk assessments to families during prenatal counseling.
Synthesis and characterization of stereolithography3Dprinting fluorescent resin
Authors: Liu Min , Chen Jin , Zheng Lu , Gao Yuyu , Liu Yingying
Published: May 2023

In this study, bisphenol A epoxy resin, 1,6‐Hexanediol diacrylate (HDDA), and 2,4,6‐Trimethylbenzoyl‐diphenylphosphine oxide (TPO) were utilized as a prepolymer, diluent, and photoinitiator, respectively, to prepare a light curing system with different amount of phosphor, which was used in place of conventional inorganic fillers. Phosphor was utilized to improve the precision of the material molded parts during the light curing process and enhance the mechanical properties of the molded parts owing to the ultraviolet (UV) absorption properties of phosphor, which prevented UV damage to the material, thus improving the light aging resistance and stability of the molded parts. Results revealed that the addition of 3% phosphor optimized the mechanical properties of the material (a maximum tensile strength of 42.43 MPa). Additionally, the material achieved the lowest linear (4.1%) and volumetric (0.58%) shrinkage at a phosphor content of 6%. This study provides a new insight into three‐dimensional (3D) printing resin for stereolithography and provides a reference for the improvement of 3D printing products.
Neurokinin‐1 receptor antagonists for the prevention of postoperative nausea and vomiting
Authors: Meyer Tricia A. , Habib Ashraf S. , Wagner Deborah , Gan Tong J.
Published: May 2023

Despite the availability of several classes of antiemetics, postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) remains a substantial burden for patients following surgery, resulting in patient dissatisfaction and prolonged stays in post‐anesthesia care units and ultimately increasing the cost of care. Enhanced recovery protocols and PONV management guidelines are now centered on the assessment of the individual patient's risk for developing PONV, as well as multimodal prophylaxis using antiemetics targeting different mechanisms of action. Over the last two decades, the neurokinin‐1 receptor (NK1R) has emerged as a therapeutic target for the management of PONV. This review of the literature explains the role of the NK1R and its ligand—substance P—in vomiting, describes the pharmacologic and pharmacokinetic properties of NK1R antagonists (NK1RAs) and summarizes the clinical evidence supporting NK1RAs for PONV prophylaxis in patients undergoing surgery. In particular, we discuss the therapeutic application of NK1RA in PONV prophylaxis protocols owing to their advantages over other antiemetic classes in efficacy, duration of efficacy, safety, pharmacology, and ease of administration. Future studies will be aimed at further investigating the efficacy and safety of NK1RA‐based multimodal combinations, particularly among vulnerable populations (e.g., children and elderly).
Heterogeneous tardive syndromes are still treatable with quetiapine
Authors: Curran Matthew , Mellor Edward , Howarth Sally
Published: May 2023

This article presents a case of classical tardive dyskinesia, apparent since at least 1997 when tetrabenazine and clonazepam were prescribed to the patient in addition to risperidone. However, the patient's mental health had been well controlled until sudden cessation of risperidone and the subsequent development of severe classical tardive dyskinesia, tardive dystonia and tardive tics. The authors describe the proposed pathophysiology of tardive dyskinesia, the impure nature of tardive syndromes, the underdiagnosis of tardive tics but eventual successful treatment with quetiapine.
Efficient dialkyl‐difluoro‐substituted quinoxaline‐based medium bandgap polymeric donor for high‐energy‐converting organic solar cells
Authors: Tamilavan Vellaiappillai , Ahn Yoomi , Kim Danbi , Agneeswari Rajalingam , Shin Insoo , Yang Hyun‐Seock , Kim Junghwan , Lee Bo Ram , Jin Youngeup , Park Sung Heum
Published: May 2023

A new medium bandgap polymer incorporating electron‐rich 4,8‐bis(5‐(2‐ethylhexyl)thiophen‐2‐yl)benzo[1,2‐b:4,5‐b']dithiophene (BDTT) and electron‐deficient 2,3‐didodecyl‐6,7‐difluoro‐5,8‐di(thiophen‐2‐yl)quinoxaline (2TffQ) units in an alternate manner, namely P(BDTT‐2TffQ), was prepared for organic solar cell (OSC) applications. The optical and electrochemical properties of P(BDTT‐2TffQ) were found to be suitable to use it as an electron donor in OSCs. The absorption band covers the region from 300 to 600 nm with an optical bandgap (Eg) of 1.84 eV, and it highest occupied and lowest unoccupied molecular orbitals (HOMO and LUMO) were found to be positioned at −5.36 and − 3.52 eV. The OSCs prepared by using P(BDTT‐2TffQ):[6,6]‐Phenyl‐C71‐butyric acid methyl ester (PC70BM) and P(BDTT‐2TffQ):2,2′‐((2Z,2'Z)‐((12,13‐bis(2‐ethylhexyl)‐3,9‐diundecyl‐12,13‐dihydro‐[1,2,5]thiadiazolo[3,4‐e]thieno[2″,3″:4′,5′]thieno[2′,3′:4,5]pyrrolo[3,2‐g]thieno[2′,3′:4,5]thieno[3,2‐b]indole‐2,10‐diyl)bis(methanylylidene))bis(5,6‐difluoro‐3‐oxo‐2,3‐dihydro‐1H‐indene‐2,1‐diylidene))dimalononitrile (Y6) blends provided a maximum power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 5.50% and 11.65%, respectively. The differences in the photovoltaic performances of OSCs are mainly attributed to their dissimilar short‐circuit current (Jsc), which depends on their absorption spectrum. Herein, we also compared the properties of P(BDTT‐2TffQ) with a structurally similar polymer, namely P(BDTT‐2TfQ), made up of BDTT and 2,3‐didodecyl‐6‐fluoro‐5,8‐di(thiophen‐2‐yl)quinoxaline (2TfQ) units, for better understanding the effects of the incorporation of additional fluorine atom on the backbone of quinoxaline‐based polymers.
Recent Advances in the Applications of Nanotechnology and Nanomaterials in the Petroleum Industry: A Descriptive Review
Authors: Khayal Areeba , Yadav Virendra Kumar , Wanale Shivraj Gangadhar , Yadav Krishna Kumar , Meena Abhishek , Shkir Mohd , Ahmad Zubair , Jeon Byong‐Hun
Published: May 2023

Nanotechnology applications are rapidly expanding in various fields because of its unique qualities, such as a large surface area. Also, the synthetic changes can be utilized to alter nanomaterial to fit into specialized necessities. From the last decade there is a tremendous increase in the utilization of nanotechnology and nanomaterials in the petroleum industry. The current review's main objective is to summarize numerous nanoparticle applications in the field of petroleum, bio‐fuel formation, and clean‐up treatments of oil spill‐related issues with their existing challenges that may help improve further research.
Baseline PSMA‐PET/CT as a predictor of PSA persistence following radical prostatectomy in high‐risk nonmetastatic prostate cancer patients receiving neoadjuvant therapy
Authors: Du Xinxing , Dong Yanhao , Liu Jiazhou , Su Yun , Zhu Yinjie , Pan Jiahua , Dong Baijun , Chen Ruohua , Liu Jianjun , Tong Zhen , Pienta Kenneth J. , Rowe Steven P. , Dong Liang , Xue Wei
Published: May 2023

Background

The precise staging and proper management of high‐risk prostate cancer (PCa) continues to be a challenge. We aimed to demonstrate the prognostic value of baseline prostate‐specific membrane antigen‐ligand positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PSMA‐PET/CT) in high‐risk, nonmetastatic PCa patients who received neoadjuvant hormonal or chemohormonal treatment followed by radical prostatectomy (RP).

Methods

We performed retrospective analyses of 70 patients with high‐risk, nonmetastatic PCa confirmed by biopsy between 2018 and 2021. All patients underwent neoadjuvant therapy followed by RP and pelvic lymph node dissection (PLND); PSMA‐PET/CT was performed before initiation of neoadjuvant therapy. Acquired image information and clinical characteristics/outcomes were examined for possible associations.

Results

Among 70 high‐risk PCa patients, median age was 69 years old and median prostate specific antigen (PSA) at presentation was 58.5 ng/mL. Thirty (42.9%) patients had uptake of the PSMA tracer only in the primary PCa lesions and 40 (57.1%) patients had PSMA‐positive lesions in regional or distant sites. Sixteen (32%) localized PCa patients defined by pre‐PET magnetic resonance imaging were found to have locally advanced PCa based on PSMA‐PET/CT. Fifteen (30%) localized PCa patients and 7 (35%) locally advanced PCa patients were upstaged to metastatic PCa. The sensitivity and specificity of PSMA‑PET/CT for the detection of lymph node involvement were 90.9% and 69.5%, respectively, with a positive prediction value of 35.7% and negative prediction value of 97.6%. The diagnostic accuracy was 72.9%. Univariate analysis showed upstaging, tumor stage, and metastasis location based on PSMA‑PET/CT are predictors to PSA persistence after surgery, while multivariate logistic regression analysis showed only the tumor stage based on PSMA‐PET/CT remained an independent predictor of the outcome.

Conclusions

This study further highlights the accuracy and necessity of PSMA‐PET/CT in newly diagnosed, high‐risk, nonmetastatic PCa patients.
Dislocation‐Induced Structural and Luminescence Degradation in InAs Quantum Dot Emitters on Silicon
Authors: Hughes Eamonn T. , Kusch Gunnar , Selvidge Jennifer , Bonef Bastien , Norman Justin , Shang Chen , Bowers John E. , Oliver Rachel A. , Mukherjee Kunal
Published: May 2023

This study probes the extent to which dislocations reduce carrier lifetimes and alter growth morphology and luminescence in InAs quantum dots (QD) grown on silicon. These heterostructures are key ingredients to achieving a highly reliable monolithically integrated light source on silicon necessary for photonic‐integrated circuits. Around 20%–30% shorter carrier lifetimes are found at spatially resolved individual dislocations at room temperature using time‐resolved cathodoluminescence spectroscopy, highlighting the strong nonradiative impact of dislocations even against the three‐dimensional confinement of QDs. Beyond these direct effects of increased nonradiative recombination, it is found that misfit dislocations in the defect filter layers employed during III–V/Si growth alter the QD growth environment to induce a crosshatch‐like variation in QD emission color and intensity when the filter layer is positioned sufficiently close to the QD emitter layer. Sessile threading dislocations generate even more egregious hillock defects that also reduce emission intensities by altering layer thicknesses, as measured by transmission electron microscopy and atom probe tomography. This work presents a more complete picture of the impacts of dislocations relevant to the development of light sources for scalable silicon photonic integrated circuits.
Efficient Synthesis and Electrochemical Investigation of Co3O4:PdO/Pd Nanocomposite for High‐Performance Supercapacitor Electrode Material
Authors: Shaheen Irum , Ahmad Khuram Shahzad , Zequine Camila , Gupta Ram K. , Thomas Andrew G. , Qureshi Anjum , Malik Mohammad Azad , Niazi Javed H. , Alarifi Saud
Published: May 2023

Advancements in the metal oxides‐based electrode material for the fabrication of supercapacitors have been an important focus of research in recent times. The electrochemical properties of electrode materials play a vital role in the excellent performance of the supercapacitor. In this regard, the doping of Co3O4 nanoparticles (NPs) with PdO/Pd using the ecofriendly extracted foliar reducing and stabilizing agent from Euphorbia cognata is analyzed. The as‐synthesized Co3O4:PdO/Pd nanocomposite exhibits a multifaceted phase composition, characterized by a particle size of 22 nm and a bandgap energy of 2.28 eV. Remarkably, an obvious reduction in bandgap energy is observed, indicative of the heightened electrochemical performance of the Co3O4:PdO/Pd nanocomposite. Galvanostatic charge–discharge techniques elucidate impressive electrochemical properties, including a 202 F g−1 specific capacitance and an exceptionally small resistance value of 1.04 Ω. These findings not only infer efficient charge particle diffusion, but also signify an enhanced charge storage capacity. Thus, the outcomes of this study state the potential of functionalized foliar Co3O4:PdO/Pd nanocomposites as a promising choice for advanced electrode materials in supercapacitor applications. Importantly, this study highlights the significance of utilizing cost‐effective and sustainable materials in the development of pioneering energy storage materials, contributing the advancement of materials field.
γ‐Irradiation Damage Mechanism of InGaAs/InP p–i–n Focal Plane Array Investigated by Spatially Resolved and Temperature‐Dependent Photoluminescence
Authors: Cai Yisheng , Zhu Liangqing , Wang Le , Shang Liyan , Li Yawei , Zhang Jinzhong , Jiang Kai , Hu Zhigao
Published: May 2023

InGaAs infrared photodetectors subjected to irradiation environments undergo microstructural modifications and concomitant degradation, yet the underlying microscopic mechanism has not been fully studied. Herein, the influence of γ irradiation (total dose of 20 krad(Si)) on an In0.53Ga0.47 As/InP p–i–n focal plane array is studied by spatially resolved and temperature‐dependent (3–290 K) photoluminescence (PL) measurements. By comparative PL studies of pre‐irradiation and post‐irradiation, the spatially resolved PL results of irradiation indicate that the in‐plane uniformity of all PL features presents bigger fluctuations, meanwhile, the results of temperature‐dependence PL demonstrate that the PL integral intensity related to impurities and interface‐bound states is significantly weakened after irradiation. This can be attributed to the enhanced migration and reaction of defects caused by γ irradiation. Some mobile defects tend to migrate to lower energy regions, such as interfaces, and form defect complexes. In addition, some impurities combine with mobile defects and form inactive impurity–defect complexes. The findings reveal the effects of low‐dose γ irradiation on InGaAs devices and may provide useful information for enhancing radiation resistance.
Onset of Antiferromagnetic Insulator‐to‐Ferromagnetic Half Metal‐to‐Antiferromagnetic Metal Transitions in La1−xCaxCrO3 and their Microscopic Origin
Authors: Swami Jeel , Dixit Ambesh , Tiwari Brajesh
Published: May 2023

The magnetic ground state of LaCrO3 and CaCrO3 solid solution is investigated in the complete miscibility range, that is, La1−xCaxCrO3 with 0 ≤ x ≤ 1 at the interval of x = 0.25 to understand the magnetic phase transitions with Ca substitutional fraction. The density functional theory is used with Hubbard correction to account for Cr exchange interaction. The isostructural La1−xCaxCrO3 system exhibits antiferromagnetic insulator (x = 0, i.e., LaCrO3) to ferromagnetic half metal (x = 0.75, i.e., La0.25Ca0.75CrO3) to antiferromagnetic metal (x = 1, i.e., CaCrO3) phase transitions. Cr changes its oxidation state from 3+ in LaCrO3 to 4+ in CaCrO3, showing both 3+ and 4+ states for intermediate compositions. Interestingly, the introduction of Hubbard energy U and Ca substitution affects Cr–O hybridization, as observed in partial density of states. A compositional phase diagram with magnetic ground state is presented for the La1−xCaxCrO3 (0 ≤ x ≤ 1) system.
“Don't Say Gay”: The influence of state political factors
Authors: Davis Nickolas B.
Published: May 2023

Recently, several states have introduced legislation designed to limit discussion around sexual orientation and gender identification. These types of legislation have been widely referred to as “Don't Say Gay” bills. Three state political characteristics: political culture, interparty competition, and general policy liberalism, which are deeply rooted in the political science literature, were used to examine a state's tendency to introduce or pass “Don't Say Gay” legislation. By using these variables, the state was not viewed in the Democratic/Republican dichotomy but rather by aspects enshrined in the state's political system. Using correlation analysis, the results from this study show that all three state political variables are correlated with introducing or passing a “Don't Say Gay” bill, while binary logistic regression results show that only political culture and interparty competition are statistically significant predictors of a state introducing or passing a “Don't Say Gay” bill.