bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A case series evaluation of the Fearless Me! © program for children with intellectual disabilities and anxiety
Authors: Hronis Anastasia , Hao Jichun , Roberts Rachel , Roberts Lynette , Shires Alice , Kneebone Ian
Published: May 2024

Objectives

Children and adolescents with intellectual disabilities (ID) have high rates of mental health disorders, particularly anxiety disorders. Cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) has largely remained unexamined as a treatment option for this population. Fearless Me! © is an adapted CBT treatment program specifically designed for children and adolescents with ID.

Method

Eleven children, aged between eight and 17, completed 10 therapy sessions. Measures of anxiety were completed pre and posttreatment and at 3 and 12‐month follow‐ups by both the children and parents.

Results

Six children reported significant reductions in anxiety, with all showing significant reductions in parent‐reported child anxiety at either posttreatment assessment, 3‐month follow‐up, or 12‐month follow‐up. Results varied across the six children as all parents reported heightened anxiety, but not all children reported high levels of anxiety for themselves.

Conclusion

Overall, this evaluation provides a sound basis for continued investigation and research into the use of the Fearless Me! © modified CBT program to treat children with ID and anxiety.
Diverging trends in alcohol use and mental health in Australian adolescents: A cross‐cohort comparison of trends in co‐occurrence
Authors: Slade Tim , Chapman Cath , Halladay Jillian , Sunderland Matthew , Smout Anna , Champion Katrina E. , Newton Nicola C. , Teesson Maree
Published: May 2024

Background

In recent years, psychological distress in Western countries has rapidly increased among older adolescents while alcohol use has declined, though little is known about younger adolescents. It is also unclear if and how these trends relate to co‐occurring alcohol use and distress. This study sought to examine temporal changes in the prevalence of distress, alcohol use, and their co‐occurrence among young Australians.

Methods

This study used data from 13,388 youth in their early teens (aged 12–14). Differences in the prevalence of high psychological distress (Kessler‐6 ≥ 13), any alcohol use (standard drink in past 3/6 months), and their co‐occurrence across cohorts (2007, 2012, 2014, 2019) were tested through log‐binomial regression models. Changes in co‐occurrence across cohorts were tested with cohort‐by‐alcohol interactions predicting distress, and vice‐versa. Differential trends by sex were evaluated.

Results

From 2007 to 2019, the prevalence of high distress more than doubled (4.6%–13.5%) while alcohol use decreased by ∼90% (11.8%–3.1%). Distress increased more‐so among females, while alcohol use decreased more‐so among males. The prevalence of high distress was significantly greater among adolescents who used alcohol compared to those who had not (>2 times higher), with this co‐occurrence remaining consistent across cohorts.

Conclusions

Psychological distress appears to be increasing similarly among youth in their early teens who do and do not use alcohol. At the same time, alcohol use is decreasing similarly among youth with and without distress. While alcohol use does not appear to be a driver of increases in distress, rates of co‐occurring alcohol use and distress remain high. Addressing co‐occurrence and distress‐specific mechanisms remain necessary.
Non‐invasive prenatal screening: Testing motivations and decision making in the low‐risk population
Authors: Lea Jenna K. , Stevens Blair K. , Mulligan Shannon , Hashmi Syed S. , Lunstroth Rebecca , Choates Meagan G.
Published: May 2024

Non‐invasive prenatal screening provides a risk assessment for aneuploidies by utilizing cell‐free DNA (cfDNA). It is recommended that cell‐free DNA screening (cfDNA screening) be offered to all pregnant people regardless of a priori risk for aneuploidy. In the absence of an increased risk, alternative motives for electing cfDNA screening and different levels of informed decision making may arise. Therefore, our study aimed to characterize low‐risk patients' motivations for cfDNA screening election, determine how often informed decisions are being made, and compare motivations between informed and uninformed decision makers. A survey that included a modified, validated measure of informed choice (MMIC) and questions to assess patients' motivations for cfDNA screening was offered at four MFM clinics following genetic counseling. It was found that 44% of participants (n = 100) made an uninformed decision about testing. Participants with private insurers were 4.25 times more likely to make an informed decision (95% CI = 1.10–16.37). Informed decision makers scored avoiding invasive procedures higher (p = 0.007) and ranked doing what family/friends desire lower (p = 0.005) than uninformed decision makers. While most participants scored receiving information about genetic conditions highest, 12% of participants reported fetal sex disclosure as a priority. However, this was not found to be associated with uninformed decision making. This study ultimately established that following genetic counseling, a low‐risk population shared motivations with high‐risk populations which highlights the importance of complete pre‐test counseling for all. Future research should investigate the effect of modifying variables, such as socioeconomic status, on the performance of informed choice measures and critically evaluate the parameters that determine informed choice.
Simple and green synthesis of 3‐acyl‐pyrazolo[1,5‐a]pyridines: [3+2] through cycloaddition of N‐aminopyridines on enaminones
Authors: Redon Sébastien , Vanelle Patrice
Published: May 2024

A practicable method is described for the synthesis of 3‐acyl‐pyrazolo[1,5‐a]pyridines from N‐aminopyridines and easily available enaminones via a [3+2] cycloaddition. The reactions proceed well with a broad scope, without using additive (base or oxidant).
Using a new artificial intelligence‐aided method to assess body composition CT segmentation in colorectal cancer patients
Authors: Cao Ke , Yeung Josephine , Arafat Yasser , Qiao Jing , Gartrell Richard , Master Mobin , Yeung Justin M. C. , Baird Paul N.
Published: May 2024

Introduction

This study aimed to evaluate the accuracy of our own artificial intelligence (AI)‐generated model to assess automated segmentation and quantification of body composition‐derived computed tomography (CT) slices from the lumber (L3) region in colorectal cancer (CRC) patients.

Methods

A total of 541 axial CT slices at the L3 vertebra were retrospectively collected from 319 patients with CRC diagnosed during 2012–2019 at a single Australian tertiary institution, Western Health in Melbourne. A two‐dimensional U‐Net convolutional network was trained on 338 slices to segment muscle, visceral adipose tissue (VAT) and subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT). Manual reading of these same slices of muscle, VAT and SAT was created to serve as ground truth data. The Dice similarity coefficient was used to assess the U‐Net‐based segmentation performance on both a validation dataset (68 slices) and a test dataset (203 slices). The measurement of cross‐sectional area and Hounsfield unit (HU) density of muscle, VAT and SAT were compared between two methods.

Results

The segmentation for muscle, VAT and SAT demonstrated excellent performance for both the validation (Dice similarity coefficients >0.98, respectively) and test (Dice similarity coefficients >0.97, respectively) datasets. There was a strong positive correlation between manual and AI segmentation measurements of body composition for both datasets (Spearman's correlation coefficients: 0.944–0.999, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Compared to the gold standard, this fully automated segmentation system exhibited a high accuracy for assessing segmentation and quantification of abdominal muscle and adipose tissues of CT slices at the L3 in CRC patients.
Root systems of peanut cultivars respond differently to soil P availability to improve P uptake
Authors: Cordeiro Carlos Felipe dos Santos , Echer Fábio Rafael , Rosolem Ciro Antonio
Published: May 2024

Background

Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) is regarded as a crop with high nutrient use efficiency, but there may be differences between cultivars. Furthermore, there is little information on the strategy of peanut cultivars to adapt to soil P availability and to what extent they explore non‐labile P pools.

Aims

Our objective was to evaluate growth, root morphology, enzymatic activity in the rhizosphere, and P uptake of peanut cultivars grown under different soil P status.

Methods

The study was conducted in a greenhouse in 6‐L pots. Soils with low P (without fertilization) and high P content (with fertilization) and seven peanut cultivars of different origins, different maturation groups, and release years were investigated. Peanut shoot yield, phosphorus uptake, root growth, soil P fractions as well as phosphatase activity in the rhizosphere soil were determined.

Results

In P‐deficient soil, a higher dry matter yield was associated with longer root hairs and root length, which resulted in decreased soil non‐labile P was observed mainly with cultivars developed in Argentina (ARG‐medium‐old and ARG‐medium‐new) and the late maturity Brazilian cultivar (BR I‐late new). These cultivars adapted well to P deficiency and were less dependent on labile P. New Brazilian early and medium maturity cultivars developed less, shorter root hairs, and showed low acid phosphatase activity in the rhizosphere under P deficiency, resulting in lower P uptake and dry matter yield. Under high P availability, new Brazilian cultivars of medium and late maturity showed the highest dry matter yield (9.0 and 9.8 g plant−1, respectively) and longest roots, around 120 m plant−1. High P availability decreased root hairs in all cultivars.

Conclusion

Overall, the adaptation of peanut cultivars to P‐deficient soils was lower for the new mid‐ and early‐maturing Brazilian cultivars compared with the Argentinian and old or late‐maturing Brazilian cultivars. The main strategies of P‐efficient cultivars under low P availability are to increase root length, root hair length, and root hair density.
Development of sensory tools for green rooibos (Aspalathus linearis (Burm.f.) R.Dahlgren) and changes in quality attributes during shelf‐life storage
Authors: de Beer Dalene , Human Chantelle , du Preez Brigitte VP , Moelich Erika I , van der Rijst Marieta , Joubert Elizabeth
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND

Green rooibos (Aspalathus linearis (Burm.f.) R.Dahlgren) herbal tea is popular due to its health‐promoting properties. Information on its characteristic sensory profile is scarce and sensory tools to define product variation are needed. The storage conditions and time during its shelf‐life are hypothesized to affect the product quality.

RESULTS

Production batches from two producers spanning 5 years (n = 57) were analyzed using descriptive sensory analysis. Primary attributes (>30 median intensity; 100% occurrence frequency) included ‘hay/dried grass’, ‘cooked oats’, ‘tobacco’, ‘honey’ and ‘caramel’ aromas, and astringent mouthfeel. ‘Cooked vegetables’, ‘green grass’, ‘stewed fruit’, ‘rooibos‐woody’, ‘marmalade’ and ‘cardboard’ aromas, sweet taste and bitter taste were secondary attributes (10–20 median intensity; 100% occurrence frequency). The same flavor attributes were present, except for sweet‐associated and fruity notes. A sensory lexicon and sensory wheels for aroma and palate attributes were constructed from the data. The shelf‐life stability of green rooibos was evaluated in moisture‐impermeable (pouches) and moisture‐permeable (sachets) packaging at 25 and 40 °C at 60% relative humidity over 24 weeks. Green rooibos samples stored in pouches at 4 °C were also evaluated. Storage in sachets led to moisture uptake (~10 g (100 g)−1 dry basis) and an increase in water activity (>0.6), causing degradation of chlorophyll and dihydrochalcones. Changes in color and sensory profile (decreased vegetal, cereal and cardboard aromas and increased sweet‐associated and fruity aromas) were evident and more pronounced at the higher storage temperature.

CONCLUSIONS

Storage at ≤25 °C in moisture‐impermeable packaging material is recommended for green rooibos herbal tea. © 2024 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Migrating foreign body granulomas after rupture of a breast implant
Authors: Grünke Teresa , Forchhammer Stephan , Vollert Anneli , Schaller Martin , Aebischer Valentin
Published: May 2024

We present the case of an 80‐year‐old female with a history of bluish streaks and painful lumps on her left arm, initially misdiagnosed as a soft tissue infection. Further investigation revealed granulomatous infiltrates in the arm and a ruptured breast implant. Upon presentation, nodular and painful swelling prompted a new biopsy. Histology and electron spectroscopy confirmed silicone deposits within granulomas. The rupture of the breast implant was identified as the likely source of silicone migration to the arm, possibly exacerbated by a past fall. Treatment challenges included the extensive size of the granuloma, leading to a trial of methotrexate therapy with initial improvement but subsequent discontinuation due to poor tolerance. This case underscores the potential for silicone migration from ruptured breast implants to induce distant granulomatous reactions, necessitating individualised treatment approaches.
A Universal Strategy to Enhance Circularly Polarized Luminescence Brightness in Chiral Perovskites
Authors: Yang Zhengwei , Lu Haolin , Zhang Yu , Yin Baipeng , Wang Hong , Gull Sehrish , Qin Wei , Chen Yongsheng , Yao Jiannian , Zhang Chuang , Long Guankui
Published: May 2024

Chiral perovskites are considered as promising candidates for circularly polarized luminescence (CPL) light source, by attracting the broader scientific community for their applications in chiral optoelectronics and spintronics. However, it is still a great challenge to achieve both substantial photoluminescence asymmetry (gCPL) and high photoluminescence quantum yield (PLQY) simultaneously for high CPL brightness due to the limitations associated with magnetic transition dipole moments. Herein, this problem is overcome and achieve both large gCPL of 1.6×10−2 and PLQY of 56% in chiral perovskite through the magnetic element doping strategy. The substitution of Pb2+ ion with smaller magnetic Mn2+ ions shrinks the crystal lattice around [MnBr6]4− octahedra, amplifying the asymmetric distortion surrounding the Mn2+ ions. Moreover, the transition associated with Mn2+ ions can harvest the photoexcitation energy in chiral perovskites, and its spin‐flipping characteristics enable highly efficient CPL from the d–d transition on Mn2+ energy levels. Furthermore, this magnetic element doping strategy is proven to be a universal tactic for enhancing CPL brightness as confirmed in a series of 1D‐ or 2D‐chiral perovskites with various chiral ligands or halogens. The findings provide an in‐depth understanding of the structure‐property relationship in chiral perovskites toward chiral optoelectronic and spintronic applications.
Hybrid Plasmonic Waveguides with Tunable ENZ Phenomenon Supported by 3D Dirac Semimetals
Authors: Cheng Yan , Cao Wenhan , He Xiaoyong
Published: May 2024

By depositing a dielectric fiber on top of 3D Dirac semi‐metal (DSM) and Au layers, the tunable propagation properties of hybrid modes are systematically investigated in the mid‐infrared regime, including the effects of the temperatures, the Fermi levels, and rotation angles. Interestingly, due to the importance of inter‐band transition in the mid‐infrared spectral regime, a strong temperature related epsilon‐near‐zero (ENZ) phenomenon has manifested near the transition frequency. Namely, below room temperature, the real part of the effective refractive index (propagation length) shows a peak (valley). Particularly, at 77 K, the according abruption ratio (ratio of maximum to minimum in ENZ region) is 9.71 (204.1). Additionally, the propagation properties are also closely associated with the Fermi level. When the Fermi level varies in the range of 0.08–0.15 eV, the peak position of the real part of the effective refractive index shifts blue from 21.3 to 38.2 THz, and the according abruption ratio of the propagation length can be modulated in the range of 3.81–45.3. These results are very useful for designing tunable plasmonic devices, such as cutting‐edge modulator, filter, and resonators.
Speckle‐Insensitive Fractal Superconducting Nanowire Single‐Photon Detector Coupled with Multimode Optical Fiber
Authors: Zou Kai , Meng Yun , Hao Zifan , Li Song , Iovan Adrian , Descamps Thomas , Zwiller Val , Hu Xiaolong
Published: May 2024

Speckles are ubiquitous phenomena associated with multi‐spatial‐mode optics, which may reduce detection efficiency and induce modal noise if the photoresponse of the detector is polarization‐dependent. Thus far, they limit the performance of superconducting nanowire single‐photon detectors (SNSPDs) coupled with multimode optical fibers (MMF). To solve this problem, here, it is shown that SNSPDs patterned into the fractal geometry is insensitive to speckles and generates minimal modal noise that would otherwise be induced by the polarization‐dependent local device efficiency of the meander and spiral SNSPDs. Using this advantageous property of the fractal SNSPDs, system detection efficiency at the wavelength of 1530 nm and 42‐ps timing jitter is demonstrated when we couple a fractal SNSPD with 50‐micrometer‐core, step‐index MMF. This work not only demonstrates a scheme to achieving high system detection efficiency for MMF‐coupled SNSPDs that can be used in many applications, but also provides insight on how engineered nanostructures of photodetectors can reduce modal noise when detecting light from multiple spatial modes.
Overcoming challenges in real‐world evidence generation: An example from an Adult Medical Care Coordination program
Authors: Savitz Samuel T. , Lampman Michelle A. , Inselman Shealeigh A. , Dholakia Ruchita , Hunt Vicki L. , Mattson Angela B. , Stroebel Robert J. , McCabe Pamela J. , Witwer Stephanie G. , Borah Bijan J.
Published: May 2024

The Adult Medical Care Coordination program (“the program”) was implemented at Mayo Clinic to promote patient self‐management and improve 30‐day unplanned readmission for patients with high risk for readmission after hospital discharge. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of the program compared to usual care using a pragmatic, stepped wedge cluster randomized trial (“stepped wedge trial”). However, several challenges arose including large differences between the study arms. Our goal is to describe the challenges and present lessons learned on how to overcome such challenges and generate evidence to support practice decisions. We describe the challenges encountered during the trial, the approach to addressing these challenges, and lessons learned for other learning health system researchers facing similar challenges. The trial experienced several challenges in implementation including several clinics dropping from the study and care disruptions due to COVID‐19. Additionally, there were large differences in the patient population between the program and usual care arms. For example, the mean age was 76.8 for the program and 68.1 for usual care. Due to these differences, we adapted the methods using the propensity score matching approach that is traditionally applied to observational designs and adjusted for differences in observable characteristics. When conducting pragmatic research, researchers will encounter factors beyond their control that may introduce bias. The lessons learned include the need to weigh the tradeoffs of pragmatic design elements and the potential value of adaptive designs for pragmatic trials. Applying these lessons would promote the successful generation of evidence that informs practice decisions.
Is shockwave therapy effective in the management of greater trochanteric pain syndrome? A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Harding Dan , Cameron Lee , Monga Aastha , Winter Sara
Published: May 2024

Background

Evidence is lacking for the efficacy of shockwave therapy (SWT) in the treatment of greater trochanteric pain syndrome (GTPS).

Aim

To investigate the efficacy of SWT on pain and function in the management of GTPS.

Methods

A systematic search of electronic databases and grey literature was conducted up to May 2023. Studies utilising SWT on adults for GTPS, providing measures of pain and/or function at baseline and at follow‐up were considered for inclusion. Meta‐analysis was undertaken using converted pain and functional outcomes. Studies were assessed for quality and risk of bias, and assigned a level of evidence as per the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluations criteria.

Results

Twelve articles (n = 1121 subjects) were included, including five randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and seven non‐RCTs. No statistical differences were observed for pain over time f(1,5) = 1.349 (p = 0.298) or between SWT and control f(1,5) = 1.782 (p = 0.238). No significant differences in functional outcomes in short‐ (H = 2.591, p = 0.181) and medium‐term follow‐up (H = 0.189, p = 0.664) were identified between SWT and control. Moderate magnitude treatment effects for pain (Hedges‐G [HG] 0.71) favouring SWT groups over control was identified, decreasing to low for function (HG 0.20). Further pain and functional treatment effects were identified at higher magnitudes across follow‐up time‐points in SWT groups compared to control.

Conclusion

Moderate‐quality evidence demonstrated no statistically significant improvements in pain and function post‐SWT compared to control. Low‐quality evidence established clinical improvements throughout all included studies favouring SWT over control. Consequently, owing to relatively low incidence of side effects, SWT should be considered a viable option for the management of GTPS. Issues with both clinical and statistical heterogeneity of studies and during meta‐analysis require consideration, and more robust RCTs are recommended if the efficacy of SWT for the management of GTPS is to be comprehensively determined.
Ductal carcinoma in situ develops within clonal fields of mutant cells in morphologically normal ducts
Authors: Hutten Stefan J , Messal Hendrik A , Lips Esther H , Sheinman Michael , Ciwinska Marta , Braams Esmee , van der Borden Carolien , Kristel Petra , Stoffers Saskia , Wessels Lodewyk FA ,   Grand Challenge PRECISION Consortium, Jonkers Jos , van Rheenen Jacco , Wesseling Jelle , Scheele Colinda LGJ
Published: May 2024

Mutations are abundantly present in tissues of healthy individuals, including the breast epithelium. Yet it remains unknown whether mutant cells directly induce lesion formation or first spread, leading to a field of mutant cells that is predisposed towards lesion formation. To study the clonal and spatial relationships between morphologically normal breast epithelium adjacent to pre‐cancerous lesions, we developed a three‐dimensional (3D) imaging pipeline combined with spatially resolved genomics on archival, formalin‐fixed breast tissue with the non‐obligate breast cancer precursor ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). Using this 3D image‐guided characterization method, we built high‐resolution spatial maps of DNA copy number aberration (CNA) profiles within the DCIS lesion and the surrounding normal mammary ducts. We show that the local heterogeneity within a DCIS lesion is limited. However, by mapping the CNA profiles back onto the 3D reconstructed ductal subtree, we find that in eight out of 16 cases the healthy epithelium adjacent to the DCIS lesions has overlapping structural variations with the CNA profile of the DCIS. Together, our study indicates that pre‐malignant breast transformations frequently develop within mutant clonal fields of morphologically normal‐looking ducts. © 2024 The Authors. The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
Retrospective experience of children with relapsed brain tumors treated with oral combination of axitinib and metronomic etoposide
Authors: Donzé Caroline , Revon‐Rivière Gabriel , Pondrom Morgane , Verschuur Arnauld , Leblond Pierre , André Nicolas
Published: May 2024

Metronomic chemotherapy‐based combinations have received interest for relapsed/refractory malignancies. Preclinical and clinical studies showed activity of metronomic etoposide and axitinib. We report our retrospective experience in six children treated with axitinib and metronomic etoposide for refractory/relapsed brain tumors as an “off‐label” combination. Three patients with medulloblastoma experienced partial response; one patient with atypical teratoid rhabdoid tumor (ATRT) displays an ongoing stable disease (12 months); two patients with medulloblastoma had progressive disease. Grade 3–4 toxicities were observed in two patients (thrombocytopenia, anemia, diarrhea, fatigue). The axitinib–etoposide combination shows signals of efficacy in heavily pretreated patients with relapsed/refractory brain tumors. These results were based on real‐world observation and will need formal evaluation in a phase I/II trial.
Spectrum–effect relationship between HPLC fingerprints and antioxidant activity of Qi‐Fu‐Yin based on multiple statistical correlation analysis
Authors: Li Hengyu , Zhao Hongwei , Chen Lingxiao , Yang Yong , Wang Shixue , Gao Rongyu , Cheng Xiaorui
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Qi‐Fu‐Yin has been used to treat Alzheimer's disease (AD) in China. Oxidative stress has been recognized as a factor in AD progress. To date, there is no quality control method to ensure batch‐to‐batch consistency of Qi‐Fu‐Yin, and the potential antioxidant compounds in Qi‐Fu‐Yin remain uncertain.

Objectives

The aim of this study is to identify the potential antioxidant compounds of Qi‐Fu‐Yin and establish quality control standards for Qi‐Fu‐Yin.

Methods

High‐performance liquid chromatography was used to establish and quantify the fingerprints of Qi‐Fu‐Yin from various batches. Ultrahigh‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time‐of‐flight tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC‐Q‐TOF/MS) was used to identify the common peaks. Bivariate correlation analysis, partial least squares regression analysis, and gray correlation analysis were used to establish the spectrum–effect relationship.

Results

Forty‐nine common peaks were determined through the establishment of fingerprints. Among them, 35 common peaks were preliminarily characterized. The multiple statistical correlation analysis methods identified six compounds as potential antioxidant constituents of Qi‐Fu‐Yin, and their antioxidant activities were validated in vitro. All six antioxidant compounds derived from two herbs. Therefore, three chemical index compounds derived from other three herbs were added to the quantitative analysis, while for two herbs, no peaks could be included. Eventually, six antioxidant constituents and three index compounds were quantitatively determined to provide a relatively comprehensive quality control for Qi‐Fu‐Yin.

Conclusions

The study elucidated the antioxidant substance basis of Qi‐Fu‐Yin and provided a relatively comprehensive approach for the assay of Qi‐Fu‐Yin, which is a promising advance in the quality control of Qi‐Fu‐Yin.
Influence of social mindfulness and Zhongyong thinking style on cooperative financial decision making in a Western sample
Authors: Unger Alexander , Li Zixuan , Papastamatelou Julie , Bi Chongzeng
Published: May 2024

Social mindfulness and Zhongyong thinking style are of high importance when evaluating relevant co‐actors in the social world. The current study investigates the influence of social mindfulness and Zhongyong thinking style on cooperative financial decision making in a public goods game among a Canadian sample. We hypothesize that higher perceived social mindfulness and higher perceived Zhongyong thinking style will increase the amount of money contributed to a joint project in a public goods game. The sample was a prolific‐based online recruited sample of n = 125 Canadians. We observed a significant main effect of Zhongyong thinking style on the amount of contributed money in the public goods game. Social mindfulness did not reach significance. The influence of Zhongyong thinking style was qualified by a significant Zhongyong by gender interaction, indicating that females but not males reduced their contributions if the Zhongyong thinking style of the co‐actor was manipulated as being low. It is shown that Zhongyong thinking style is also relevant in a Western cultural setting. Future research is needed, however, to investigate further the reasons for the differences between females and males.
Single‐cell RNA sequencing in pediatric research: Focusing on differentiation trajectories and immune microenvironment of neuroblastoma
Authors: Wang RuiZong , Wang Shan
Published: May 2024

Recently, single‐cell RNA sequencing (scRNA‐seq) has emerged as a novel and high‐resolution technique for identifying cell types, states, and subpopulations. This technique enables researchers to uncover cellular heterogeneity and detect rare cell populations that might be indistinguishable in bulk RNA‐seq data. The primary aim of scRNA‐seq analysis is to investigate cellular heterogeneity and distinguish distinct cell types or states. scRNA‐seq provides a detailed understanding of intercellular differences and diversity by obtaining gene expression data for each individual cell. Moreover, clustering methods in scRNA‐seq can be used to group cells bring into subpopulations based on their gene expression patterns, thereby uncovering similarities and differences that assist in identifying and defining cell types. Newly discovered cell types can be validated and named by labeling known cell marker genes. Additionally, scRNA‐seq helps in identifying genes specifically expressed at different developmental stages, in various tissue types, or under various disease states. Recently, there has been a growing trend in using single‐cell transcriptome sequencing technology for neuroblastoma (NB) research. Through conducting a comprehensive review of relevant articles published thus far, our understanding of NB has been significantly enriched from three critical perspectives: differentiation trajectory, tumor heterogeneity, and immune microenvironment. Firstly, in exploring the differentiation trajectory of NB, we have summarized the tumor's origin and subsequent directions of differentiation. By elucidating a complete tumor differentiation pathway, we can enhance our understanding of the mechanisms underlying spontaneous tumor regression. Secondly, we have summarized the heterogeneity of tumors, which encompasses different states, cell morphologies, and characteristic genes of NB identified through single‐cell sequencing technology. This consolidation of knowledge enhances our understanding of the heterogeneity of NB. Lastly, we have employed single‐cell sequencing technology to analyze the immune microenvironment, focusing on the cellular components within the tumor's surrounding environment and the diverse states of immune cells. This valuable information contributes to the advancement of NB diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis. In conclusion, the application of single‐cell sequencing technology in NB research has significantly advanced our understanding of the disease and carries great significance.
Growth periodicity in semi‐deciduous tropical tree species from the Congo Basin
Authors: Luse Belanganayi Basile , Delvaux Claire , Kearsley Elizabeth , Lievens Kévin , Rousseau Mélissa , Mbungu Phaka Christophe , Djiofack Brice Yannick , Laurent Félix , Bourland Nils , Hubau Wannes , De Mil Tom , Beeckman Hans
Published: May 2024

In the tropics, more precisely in equatorial dense rainforest, xylogenesis is driven by a little distinct climatological seasonality, and many tropical trees do not show clear growth rings. This makes retrospective analyses and modeling of future tree performance difficult. This research investigates the presence, the distinctness, and the periodicity of growth ring for dominant tree species in two semi‐deciduous rainforests, which contrast in terms of precipitation dynamics. Eighteen tree species common to both forests were investigated. We used the cambial marking technique and then verified the presence and periodicity of growth‐ring boundaries in the wood produced between pinning and collection by microscopic and macroscopic observation. The study showed that all eighteen species can form visible growth rings in both sites. However, the periodicity of ring formation varied significantly within and between species, and within sites. Trees from the site with clearly defined dry season had a higher likelihood to form periodical growth rings compared to those from the site where rainfall seasonality is less pronounced. The distinctness of the formed rings however did not show a site dependency. Periodical growth‐ring formation was more likely in fast‐growing trees. Furthermore, improvements can be made by a detailed study of the cambial activity through microcores taken at high temporal resolution, to get insight on the phenology of the lateral meristem.
Assessment of self‐esteem and quality of life in patients with transtibial amputations using an exoskeletal prosthesis
Authors: Varuni S. , Gnanasekaran Sridevi , Gaur Ravi , Goel Akhil Dhanesh , Bhardwaj Pankaj , Chavan Akshay , Rajendran Vinoth
Published: May 2024

Background

Lower limb amputation can have profound physical, psychological, and social effects on individuals. Assistive aids like prosthetic lower limbs can help an individual regain mobility and thereby affect their self‐esteem and quality of life.

Objective

To assess self‐esteem and quality of life in patients with transtibial amputations who are using a transtibial prosthesis and explore the association between sociodemographic and amputation‐related factors with self‐esteem and prosthesis‐related quality of life measures.

Design

A cross‐sectional study.

Setting

An orthotics and prosthetics center (Bhagwan Mahaveer Viklang Sahayata Samiti) in Jaipur, Rajasthan.

Participants

Patients with transtibial amputations using exoskeletal prostheses between July and September 2022, in Jaipur, Rajasthan.

Main Outcome Measures

The study used Rosenberg self‐esteem questionnaire and Prosthesis Evaluation Questionnaire (PEQ) for self‐esteem and quality of life assessment, respectively. Descriptive analysis was used to present the demographic details, and nonparametric tests examined the relationship between PEQ dimensions and sociodemographic variables.

Results

The study included 138 participants, primarily <40 years old (45.7%) and mostly engaged in high‐activity occupations. Self‐esteem mean score (SD) was 19.9 (3.9), with 89.1% exhibiting normal self‐esteem. Prosthesis‐related quality of life, showed high satisfaction across various domains, including ambulation, appearance, frustration, perceived response, residual limb health, social burden, sounds, utility, and well‐being. No significant associations were found between sociodemographic factors, amputation‐related variables, and self‐esteem. However, PEQ scales showed associations with gender, age, occupation, type of amputation, and years of prosthesis use.

Conclusion

These results highlight the potential advantages of exoskeletal prostheses in improving the standard of living for people with transtibial amputations. Further research is essential to develop targeted interventions for improving their overall quality of life.
Polymer blending and nanophotocatalyst loading synergy in visible light‐driven photocatalytic PES/SPSf mixed matrix membranes
Authors: Zikalala Sithembela A. , Gumbi Nozipho N. , Li Jianxin , Mamba Bhekie B. , Nxumalo Edward N.
Published: May 2024

The synergy of polymer blending and loading photocatalytic titania–amorphous carbon nanotubes (TiO2–aCNT) in tailoring the morphological, surface, and optoelectrical properties of membranes is investigated. High energy band gap (Eg) polyethersulfone (PES), and low Eg sulfonated polyethersulfone (SPSf) polymer blends were loaded with TiO2–aCNT nanocomposite fillers. SEM reveals membranes consisting of a selective layer, a dense sublayer and a spongy layer with the latter two consisting of a network of nanofibers whose diameters decrease with increasing TiO2–aCNT loading. The downshifting in the wavenumbers of sulfonyl and sulfone peaks in Fourier transform infrared and Raman spectra confirms bonding of TiO2–aCNT with PES/SPSf via these groups. Blending PES with SPSf decreases the Eg of the membranes while loading TiO2–aCNT produces a second band edge corresponding to = 2.8 eV. Suppression of charge recombination in membranes is realized at 1.2 filler wt.%. Charge separation occurrs via shuttling of the positive holes to the aCNTs and valence band of TiO2 while electrons are shuttled to the conduction bands of PES and SPSf. Electron impedance spectroscopy shows TiO2–aCNT loading reduces polymer membrane resistance to charge transport. Dye degradation up to 85% is realized under direct sunlight irradiation accompanied by mineralization.
Estimating Fusarium head blight severity in winter wheat using deep learning and a spectral index
Authors: McConachie Riley , Belot Connor , Serajazari Mitra , Booker Helen , Sulik John
Published: May 2024

Fusarium head blight (FHB) of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), caused by the fungal pathogen Fusarium graminearum (Fg), reduces grain yield and quality due to the production of the mycotoxin deoxynivalenol. Manual rating for incidence (percent of infected wheat heads/spikes) and severity (percent of spikelets infected) to estimate FHB resistance is time‐consuming and subject to human error. This study uses a deep learning model, combined with a spectral index, to provide rapid phenotyping of FHB severity. An object detection model was used to localize wheat heads within boundary boxes. Corresponding boxes were used to prompt Meta's Segment Anything Model to segment wheat heads. Using 2576 images of wheat heads point inoculated with Fg in a controlled environment, a spectral index was developed using the red and green bands to differentiate healthy from infected tissue and estimate disease severity. Stratified random sampling was applied to pixels within the segmentation mask, and the model classified pixels as healthy or infected with an accuracy of 87.8%. Linear regression determined the relationship between the index and visual severity scores. The severity estimated by the index was able to predict visual scores (R2 = 0.83, p = < 2e‐16). This workflow was also applied to plot size images of infected wheat heads from an outside dataset with varying cultivars and lighting to assess model transferability. It correctly classified pixels as healthy or infected with a prediction accuracy of 85.8%. These methods may provide rapid estimation of FHB severity to improve selection efficiency for resistance or estimate disease pressure for effective management.
A novel Bayesian generative approach for estimating tumor dynamics from published studies
Authors: Pourzanjani Arya , Modi Saurabh , Connarn Jamie , Zhang Xinwen , Upreti Vijay , Lin Chih‐Wei , Mehta Khamir
Published: May 2024

Tumor growth inhibition (TGI) modeling attempts to describe the time course changes in tumor size for patients undergoing cancer therapy. TGI models present several advantages over traditional exposure–response models that are based explicitly on clinical end points and have become a popular tool in the pharmacometrics community. Unfortunately, the data required to fit TGI models, namely longitudinal tumor measurements, are sparse or often not available in literature or publicly accessible databases. On the contrary, common end points such as progression‐free survival (PFS) and objective response rate (ORR) are directly derived from longitudinal tumor measurements and are routinely published. To this end, a Bayesian generative model relating underlying tumor dynamics to summary PFS and ORR data is introduced to learn TGI model parameters using only published summary data. The parameterized model can describe the tumor dynamics, quantify treatment effect, and account for differences in the study population. The utility of this model is shown by applying it to several published studies, and learned parameters are combined to simulate an in silico trial of a novel combination therapy in a novel setting.
Estimation of Junction Temperature in Single 228 nm‐Band AlGaN Far‐Ultraviolet‐C Light‐Emitting Diode on c‐Sapphire Having 1.8 mW Power and 0.32% External Quantum Efficiency
Authors: Ajmal Khan Muhammad , Muta Mitsuhiro , Fujimoto Kohei , Gonzalez Rojas Javier , Fredes Pablo , Gramsch Ernesto , Iwaisako Yasushi , Yaguchi Hiroyuki , Hirayama Hideki
Published: May 2024

The increasing resistance of methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcusaureus to antibiotics is a major challenge faced by mankind in thehistory of medical science and according to United Nations, 700‐000 patients worldwide die every year from an infection with multidrug‐resistant organisms (MROs). Aluminum gallium nitride‐based 228 nm Far‐ultraviolet‐C (Far‐UVC) lightsources can be safely used as a germicidal application in both manned as wellas in unmanned environments against these MROs. Previously, the 228 nm Far‐UVC light‐emitting diode (LED) with emission power of 1 mW was reported by ourgroup, however, the value of external quantum efficiency (EQE) was not reportedusing conventional thick Ni (20 nm)/Au (100 nm) p‐electrode. Herein, animproved Far‐UVC LED on c‐Sapphire is attempted using a special technique in SR4000 type of metal‐organic chemical vapor deposition reactor to control the Al composition in n‐AlGaN buffer and across the 2 inch‐wafer. As a result, the light emission power of 1.8 mW and EQE of 0.32% in 228 nm Far‐UVC LED aresuccessfully achieved using very thin p‐electrode (Ni/Au). However, arelatively high junction temperature of ≈100°C around thejunction of Far‐UVC LED is observed. Finally, some simple heat‐sink modules forheat dissipation of Far‐UVC LED panel with light power of 30 mW are implemented.
Time‐Resolved Optical Response of the Dicke's Model via the Nonequilibrium Green's Function Approach
Authors: Gopalakrishna Megha , Pavlyukh Yaroslav , Verdozzi Claudio
Published: May 2024

Due to their conceptual appeal and computational convenience, two‐level systems (TLSs) and generalizations are used to investigate nonlinear behavior in quantum optics and assess the applicability of theoretical methods. Herein, the focus is on second‐harmonic generation (SHG) and, as system of interest, on the Dicke model, which consists of several TLSs inside an optical cavity. The main aspect addressed is the scope of nonequilibrium Green's function (NEGF) to describe the effect of inhomogeneities and electron–electron (e–e) interactions on the SHG signal. For benchmarking purposes, exact diagonalization (ED) results are also presented and discussed. SHG spectra obtained with NEGF and ED are found to be in very good mutual agreement in most situations. Furthermore, inhomogeneity in the TLS and e–e interactions reduce the SHG signal, and the reduction is stronger with inhomogeneity than with interactions. This trend is consistently noted across different (small to large) system sizes. Finally, a modified NEGF approach is proposed to account for cavity leakage, where the quantum photon fields are coupled to a bath of classical oscillators. As expected, within this mixed quantum‐classical scheme, a decrease in the intensity of the fluorescent spectra takes place depending on the entity of leakage.
Intermittent event‐triggered control for input‐to‐state stability of stochastic systems
Authors: Xu Dongsheng , Li Leilei , Ahn Choon Ki , Wu Yongbao , Su Huan
Published: May 2024

In this article, we investigate the input‐to‐state stability (ISS) of stochastic systems via intermittent event‐triggered control. The control update sequence during the control intervals is determined through an event‐triggered mechanism (ETM), where the periodic ETM and continuous ETM are considered separately. For the continuous ETM, a positive minimum inter‐execution time is ensured by adding waiting time, which avoids Zeno behavior. For the periodic ETM, with the help of Halanay‐like inequality, the maximum allowable bound of the sampling period is given. The number of control updates is further reduced by adding a dynamic term. In addition, sufficient conditions for ISS in stochastic systems are proposed by designing an auxiliary timer and applying the Lyapunov method. Finally, two numerical examples are presented to verify the validity of the results.
Unlocking the diversity and plant‐growth promoting potential of the bulk soil bacteria associated with the Saharan tree Vachellia tortilis subsp. raddiana
Authors: Hnini Mohamed , Aurag Jamal
Published: May 2024

In this study, we investigated the bacterial diversity and plant growth‐promoting (PGP) properties of bulk soil bacteria of Vachellia tortilis subsp. raddiana collected from the Taidalt and Amazloug nature preserves area in southern Morocco. Using repetitive extragenic palindromic polymerase chain reaction fingerprinting and 16S rDNA sequencing, 93 strains were identified. They belonged mainly to the genera Bacillus and Peribacillus. In vitro tests for PGP traits showed high levels of activity for strains belonging to the genera Bacillus and Pseudomonas. It was relevant that several Bacillus strains produced auxin (maximum amount 262.61 µg mL−1 for Bacillus sp. LMR1097), solubilized phosphate (maximum amount 22.10 µg mL−1), or produced siderophores, while three strains were able to fix atmospheric nitrogen (LMR1145, LMR1013, and LMR1015). Inoculation of V. tortilis subsp. raddiana plants with selected bacterial strains (LMR881 and LMR1097) increased shoot and root growth parameters. The strain Pantoea sp. LMR881 had the highest mean values for shoot and root length (24.60–14.80 cm) and shoot dry weight (1.31 g), whereas Bacillus sp. LMR1097 showed the lowest mean shoot dry weight. Overall, these results highlight the potential of using selected native bacterial inoculants for improving growth of candidate tree plants to be used in restoration programs of arid degraded areas.
Associations between emotional reactivity to stress and adolescent substance use: Differences by sex and valence
Authors: Rahal Danny , Bower Julienne E. , Irwin Michael R. , Fuligni Andrew J.
Published: May 2024

Although stress is often related to substance use, it remains unclear whether substance use is related to individual differences in how adolescents respond to stress. Therefore the present study examined associations between substance use and daily emotional reactivity to stress within a year across adolescence. Adolescents (N = 330; Mage = 16.40, SD = 0.74 at study entry; n = 186 female; n = 138 Latine; n = 101 European American; n = 72 Asian American; n = 19 identifying as another ethnicity including African American and Middle Eastern) completed a longitudinal study, including three assessments between the 10th grade and 3‐years post‐high school. At each assessment, participants reported frequency of alcohol and cannabis use and the number of substances they had ever used. They also completed 15 daily checklists, in which they reported the number of daily arguments and their daily emotion. Multilevel models suggested that more frequent alcohol and cannabis use were related to attenuated positive emotional reactivity to daily stress (i.e., smaller declines in positive emotion on days when they experienced more arguments) for both male and female adolescents. Associations for negative emotional reactivity to stress varied by sex; more frequent alcohol use and use of more substances in one's lifetime were related to greater anxious emotional reactivity to stress among female adolescents, whereas more frequent alcohol and cannabis use and higher lifetime substance use were related to attenuated depressive emotional reactivity to stress among male adolescents. Taken together, substance use was related to emotional reactivity to daily stress within the same year during adolescence, although associations differed by valence and adolescent sex.