bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of thickness on impact resistance of glass fiber woven composite laminates
Authors: Deng Yunfei , Wang Yuetong , Cai Xiongfeng , Du Jing , Wei Gang
Published: May 2023

To investigate the influence thickness has on the impact resistance of glass fiber woven composite laminates, a series of impact tests on 1–5 mm‐thick laminates impacted by the hemispherical‐nosed projectile on a one‐stage gas gun are conducted. The influence thickness has on the ballistic limit, energy absorption, failure mode, and damage mechanism of laminates is analyzed. The results show the ballistic limit velocity of 1–5 mm thickness to increase in a linear manner. It is found that the ballistic limit velocity of laminate 5 mm in thickness is 2.8 times greater than that of a laminate that is 1 mm in thickness. As the impact velocity of the projectile increases, the energy absorption of a laminated plate decreases to approximately 10% before becoming stable. Fiber tensile tearing and matrix cracking occurs on the back of the laminate, while the domain failure mode changes from fiber tensile fracture to shear as the velocity of the projectile increases.
Study on the preparation and performance of SiC nanoparticle reinforced polyurethane coatings
Authors: Zhang Jinghua , Chang Yixue , Jin Shaohua , Yang Hongtao , Chen Shusen , Zhang Wei , Chen Yu
Published: May 2023

Polyurethane (PU) coatings display several advantages such as easy construction, adjustability, and excellent mechanical properties, and therefore have potential applications in the coating of rocket engines and warheads. However, mechanical strength, high ductility and thermal stability are often difficult properties to combine, which has become a key limitation in efforts toward developing PU coatings for these applications. In this paper, a fast‐curing PU film was developed by reacting between polytetrahydrofuran and diphenylmethane 4,4'‐diisocyanate. The mechanical strengthening effect of SiC nanoparticles on the film was studied and compared with other common fillers, including TiO2, XFM13. The results revealed that SiC nanoparticles substantially increased the mechanical properties in PU coating, increasing the material's tensile strength and elongation at break to 34.14 MPa and 434% respectively. In addition, the inclusion of SiC nanoparticles generally improved the thermal stability and low temperature resistance of PU film. The results generated in this research has established a foundation for the application of PU materials in fields requiring high performance properties, such as rocket engines coatings and warhead manufacture.
Delivery of soluble ethinylestradiol complex by pH‐responsive core‐shell composite hydrogel capsules
Authors: Gong Fengrong , Jiang Lihui , Gao Yanni , Xu Juan , Wang Ting
Published: May 2023

Ethinylestradiol (EE) is a potent estrogen widely used to treat diseases such as breast cancer, prostate cancer, and menopausal syndrome. The poor aqueous solubility of EE leads to erratic oral absorption, resulting in suboptimal plasma levels. Developing a formulation to enhance the solubility of EE in the gastrointestinal tract would be beneficial to increase the bioavailability of EE. Thereafter, we prepare diethylenetriamine‐β‐cyclodextrin/ethinylestradiol (DETA‐β‐CD/EE) complex, aiming to increase the solubility of EE in water, and design and prepare core‐shell composite hydrogel capsules with aldocellulose and hydroxyethyl cellulose as the core and sodium alginate as the shell. The stability, swelling, drug release behavior and biocompatibility of the core‐shell hydrogel capsules are carefully investigated. And the results show that the prepared hydrogel capsules have the controlled and sustained release ability of soluble DETA‐β‐CD/EE, can achieve pH‐responding to intestinal fluid, and are non‐toxic to normal human cells.
One‐pot preparation of tough, anti‐swelling, antibacterial and conductive multiple‐crosslinked hydrogels assisted by phytic acid and ferric trichloride
Authors: Liu Zhilang , Liu Zhaoqing , Shu Bo , Lian Cuixia , Wu Jialin , Wen Qing , Wu Jiahuan , Yang Zhuohong , Zhou Wuyi , Hu Yang
Published: May 2023

The flexible biodegradable polymer hydrogels have attracted increasing attention in the exploration of multifarious biomedical applications. However, conveniently achieving the synergistic characteristics of favorable mechanical performance, anti‐swelling behavior, antibacterial activity and conductivity into a biodegradable hydrogel remains a significant challenge. In this aspect, we report a facile one‐pot approach to prepare the multiple‐crosslinked PVA (PVA/PA‐Fe) hydrogels assisted by phytic acid (PA) and ferric trichloride. Firstly, PVA polymer chains and PA molecules form hydrogen bonds, meanwhile PA molecules interact with Fe3+ ions by ionic coordinations. Then, PVA polymer chains are crystallized by forming hydrogen bonds after cyclic freeze–thaw process. Based on the synergistic interactions of multiple hydrogen bonds and ionic coordinations in hydrogel system, PVA/PA‐Fe hydrogels possess favorable tensile strength (1222.72 kPa), toughness (1.82 MJ/m3) and anti‐swelling properties. Moreover, the introduction of PA and ferric trichloride successfully endows hydrogel with outstanding antimicrobial activity. Furthermore, the existence of H+ ions ionized by PA, Fe3+ and Cl− ions originating from ferric trichloride provides hydrogel with ionic conductivity (4.91 S/m) and strain responsiveness. Thus, the facile one‐pot preparation approach basing on the multiple‐crosslinked strategy would broaden the path for preparation of multifunctional hydrogels with promising biomedical applications, particularly smart flexible strain sensors.
Psychotherapy better than medications to treat BPD
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: May 2023

Borderline personality disorder (BPD) can be treated best with psychotherapy, not medications, a recent clinical review has found. Led by senior author Otto F. Kernberg, M.D., the researchers conducted a literature review summarizing evidence regarding the epidemiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment of BPD. While the review focuses on adults, the researchers also found that while the age of onset varies, symptoms are usually seen by early adulthood, with symptoms veering toward more depression as the patient ages.
Organizations continue advocating for gun safety
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: May 2023

In the wake of continued mass shootings in the United States and a growing sense of despondency that such tragedies are unavoidable, health care organizations have issued strong calls for gun control. Families living in fear: that's not healthy for children.
DprE1 Inhibitors: Enduring Aspirations for Future Antituberculosis Drug Discovery
Authors: Yadav Saloni , Soni Aastha , Tanwar Omprakash , Bhadane Rajendra , Besra Gurdyal S. , Kawathekar Neha
Published: May 2023

DprE1 is a crucial enzyme involved in the cell wall synthesis of Mycobacterium tuberculosis and a promising target for antituberculosis drug development. However, its unique structural characteristics for ligand binding and association with DprE2 make developing new clinical compounds challenging. This review provides an in‐depth analysis of the structural requirements for both covalent and non‐covalent inhibitors, their 2D and 3D binding patterns, as well as their biological activity data in vitro and in vivo, including pharmacokinetic information. We also introduce a protein quality score (PQS) and an active‐site map of the DprE1 enzyme to help medicinal chemists better understand DprE1 inhibition and develop new and effective anti‐TB drugs. Furthermore, we examine the resistance mechanisms associated with DprE1 inhibitors to understand future developments due to resistance emergence. This comprehensive review offers insight into the DprE1 active site, including protein‐binding maps, PQS, and graphical representations of known inhibitors, making it a valuable resource for medicinal chemists working on future antitubercular compounds.
A Calcination‐Free Sol‐Gel Method to Prepare TiO2‐Based Hybrid Semiconductors for Enhanced Visible Light‐Driven Hydrogen Production
Authors: Yang Kang , Wei Dan , Jia Chunman , Li Jianwei
Published: May 2023

In recent years, the sol‐gel method has been extensively utilized to develop efficient and stable organic semiconductor composite titanium dioxide (TiO2) photocatalysts. However, the high‐temperature calcination requirements of this method consume energy during preparation and degrade encapsulated organic semiconductor molecules, resulting in decreased photocatalytic hydrogen production efficiency. In this study, we found that by selecting an appropriate organic semiconductor molecule, 1,4‐naphthalene dicarboxylic acid (NA), high‐temperature calcination can be avoided in the sol‐gel process, yielding an organic‐inorganic hybrid material with stable and effective photocatalytic properties. The uncalcined material displayed a hydrogen production rate of 2920±15 μmol g−1 h−1, which was approximately twice the maximum production rate observed in the calcined material. Likewise, the specific surface area of the uncalcined material, at 252.84 m2 g−1, was significantly larger compared to the calcined material. Comprehensive analyses confirmed successful NA and TiO2 doping, while UV‐vis and Mott‐Schottky tests revealed a reduced energy bandgap (2.1 eV) and expanded light absorption range. Furthermore, the material maintained robust photocatalytic activity after a 40‐hour cycle test. Our findings demonstrate that by using NA doping without calcination, excellent hydrogen production performance can be achieved, offering a novel approach for environmentally friendly and energy‐saving production of organic semiconductor composite TiO2 materials.
Sustainable institutional investors and corporate biodiversity disclosure: Does sustainable board governance matter?
Authors: Velte Patrick
Published: May 2023

The purpose of this study is to examine the impact of sustainable institutional investors (SIIs), based on their signatory status to the UN Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI), on corporate biodiversity disclosure (BD). Moreover, the moderating influence of sustainable board governance (critical mass of female directors, sustainability committees, and sustainability‐related executive compensation) as a possible channel of the link between SIIs and BD is analyzed. The study is based on a European sample consisting of 2319 firm‐year observations between 2014 and 2020 (EUROSTOXX 600) and embedded in a stakeholder agency theoretical framework. The results are in line with prior research on sustainable corporate governance and indicate that SIIs have a positive impact on BD and that the included sustainability board governance index strengthens this link. Our results are robust to a battery of sensitivity analyses. This study makes a major contribution to prior analyses, as it appears to be the first study on the link between SIIs and BD and the moderating impact of sustainable board governance. The study has major implications for business practice, regulators and research.
Peak‐to‐average power ratio of selective mapping technology involving a phase generation mechanism based on polar codes for orthogonal frequency division multiplexing with index modulation systems
Authors: Liang Hsin‐Ying
Published: May 2023

In this paper, a novel selective mapping (SLM) method is proposed for reducing the peak‐to‐average power ratio (PAPR) of orthogonal frequency division multiplexing with index modulation (OFDM‐IM) systems. In the proposed method, polar codes are used to construct the SLM phase generation mechanism. This systematic structural design is superior to conventional methods in which phases are randomly generated. Moreover, polar codes and Reed–Muller codes are selected to protect the input data of the OFDM‐IM system. The weight distribution of the Reed–Muller codes is then used to determine the location data of the active subcarriers in the OFDM‐IM system, and these data are used to determine the error correction capacity. Simulation results indicated that the PAPR improvement achieved using the proposed method is similar to that achieved with conventional SLM methods. Moreover, linear block codes are used to construct the active subcarrier selection and SLM phase generation mechanisms to ensure that both mechanisms have systematic structural designs.
Hitchhiking to the abyss
Authors: Fontes Jorge , Castellano‐González Gloria , Macena Bruno C. L. , Afonso Pedro
Published: May 2023

We investigated, for the first time, the hitchhiker‐host fidelity of deep‐diving whale sharks and Chilean devil rays. We found that two of the most ubiquitous oceanic hitchhikers, the common remora and the pilot fish, are able to follow their hosts to bathypelagic depths, where they are exposed to extreme gradients of light, dissolved oxygen, temperature, and pressure. We documented a deep dive of a large whale shark hosting remoras and pilot fish. Common remora was observed at the deepest section of the dive, at 1460 m, where the water temperature was 3.6°C. A pilot fish was recorded at 900 m, during the ascent phase, with the water temperature of 7.5°C. Although the adaptations that allow these hitchhikers to mitigate the impacts of such extreme environmental conditions remain unknown, we discuss these findings in the framework of the ecophysiology of deep diving and the hitchhiker‐host fidelity.
Double deposition/accumulation and double stripping steps system as a new way of decreasing the detection limit and elimination of interferences in stripping voltammetry of inorganic ions: A review
Authors: Gęca Iwona
Published: May 2023

The article reviews an application of double deposition/accumulation and stripping steps as a new and beneficial manner of decreasing a detection limit and/or interferences elimination in stripping voltammetric determination of inorganic ions: Pb(II), Cd(II), Tl(I), U(VI), Au(III), As(III), Se(IV), In(III), Co(II), Cu(II), Bi(III) and Ga(III). A simple design of four‐electrodes system, containing two working electrodes differing in their surface area, allows for conducting two preconcentration and two stripping steps in one measurement cycle and in one voltammetric cell. Considerable analytes preconcentration and, consequently, an increase of sensitivity of determinations was obtained by conducting the first stripping step in a small volume of a solution near the microelectrode surface. An appropriate selection of the conditions of the first deposition/accumulation and the first stripping steps allowed for a minimization/elimination of interference effects. The proposed procedures allows for ultra‐trace levels determinations of mentioned inorganic ions (often impossible to determine by means of traditional three‐electrodes systems) without additional preconcentration outside the electrochemical cell and with the use of mercury‐free electrodes.
Alteration of chromatin high‐order conformation associated with oxaliplatin resistance acquisition in colorectal cancer cells
Authors: Li Peilong , Shang Xueying , Jiao Qinlian , Mi Qi , Zhu Mengqian , Ren Yidan , Li Juan , Li Li , Liu Jin , Wang Chuanxin , Shi Yi , Wang Yunshan , Du Lutao
Published: May 2023

Oxaliplatin is a first‐line chemotherapy drug widely adopted in colorectal cancer (CRC) treatment. However, a large proportion of patients tend to become resistant to oxaliplatin, causing chemotherapy to fail. At present, researches on oxaliplatin resistance mainly focus on the genetic and epigenetic alterations during cancer evolution, while the characteristics of high‐order three‐dimensional (3D) conformation of genome are yet to be explored. In order to investigate the chromatin conformation alteration during oxaliplatin resistance, we performed multi‐omics study by combining DLO Hi‐C, ChIP‐seq as well as RNA‐seq technologies on the established oxaliplatin‐resistant cell line HCT116‐OxR, as well as the control cell line HCT116. The results indicate that 19.33% of the genome regions have A/B compartments transformation after drug resistance, further analysis of the genes converted by A/B compartments reveals that the acquisition of oxaliplatin resistance in tumor cells is related to the reduction of reactive oxygen species and enhanced metastatic capacity. Our research reveals the spatial chromatin structural difference between CRC cells and oxaliplatin resistant cells based on the DLO Hi‐C and other epigenetic omics experiments. More importantly, we provide potential targets for oxaliplatin‐resistant cancer treatment and a new way to investigate drug resistance behavior under the perspective of 3D genome alteration.
Insertion of the CXXC domain of KMT2A into YAP1: An unusual mechanism behind the formation of a chimeric oncogenic protein
Authors: Teku Gabriel , Nilsson Jenny , Magnusson Linda , Sydow Saskia , Flucke Uta , Puls Florian , Mitra Shamik , Mertens Fredrik
Published: May 2023

Most neoplasia‐associated gene fusions are formed through the fusion of the 5′‐part of one gene with the 3′‐part of another. We here describe a unique mechanism, by which a part of the KMT2A gene through an insertion replaces part of the YAP1 gene. The resulting YAP1::KMT2A::YAP1 (YKY) fusion was verified by RT‐PCR in three cases of sarcoma morphologically resembling sclerosing epithelioid fibrosarcoma (SEF‐like sarcoma). In all cases, a portion (exons 4/5–6) encoding the CXXC domain of KMT2A was inserted between exon 4/5 and exon 8/9 of YAP1. The inserted sequence from KMT2A thus replaced exons 5/6–8 of YAP1, which encode an important regulatory sequence of YAP1. To evaluate the cellular impact of the YKY fusion, global gene expression profiles from fresh frozen and formalin‐fixed YKY‐expressing sarcomas were compared with control tumors. The effects of the YKY fusion, as well as YAP1::KMT2A and KMT2A::YAP1 fusion constructs, were further studied in immortalized fibroblasts. Analysis of differentially upregulated genes revealed significant overlap between tumors and cell lines expressing YKY, as well as with previously reported YAP1 fusions. Pathway analysis of upregulated genes in cells and tumors expressing YKY revealed an enrichment of genes included in key oncogenic signaling pathways, such as Wnt and Hedgehog. As these pathways are known to interact with YAP1, it seems likely that the pathogenesis of sarcomas with the YKY fusion is linked to distorted YAP1 signaling.
A database of detrital zircon U–Pb geochronology and Hf isotopes from the Songpan–Ganzi and Western Qinling terranes
Authors: Pan Yingdi , Hu Xiumian
Published: May 2023

Since the advent of detrital geochronology, significant progress has been made in the study of sedimentary sources. The detrital zircon U–Pb age spectrum, especially when combined with zircon Hf isotopes, provides a powerful tool for determining the provenance location, nature, and evolutionary history of sediments. The Western Qinling–Songpan tectonic junction, located in central China, is a giant structure on the crustal scale. A total of 20,640 zircon U–Pb ages of 281 sandstone samples from the Songpan–Ganzi and Western Qinling terranes were obtained. Among these, 1,636 zircons from 33 samples contained Hf isotopic data. Moreover, we compiled data on papers, samples, analytical methods, and results and obtained a total of 76 zircon U–Pb and 60 Hf isotope data heads. The obtained dataset has multiple data interfaces, which can be well associated with research or applications in different fields, for provenance analysis, climate change, and paleogeographic reconstruction studies.
Environmental impact of economic activities: Decoupling perspective of Singapore using log mean Divisia index decomposition technique
Authors: Ozturk Ilhan , Khan Sher , Majeed Muhammad Tariq
Published: May 2023

The chase for economic growth results in global environmental degradation, threatening the socioeconomic aspects of human lives. Singapore is a global economic player, transforming its rural setup into an urban structure to achieve higher economic growth (EG). However, the drive for EG drastically affected its environmental quality. In this respect, the present study analyzes the relationship between Singapore's economic activities and environmental quality. This study uses the Tapio decoupling indicator, Kaya Identity, and the Log Mean Divisia Index (LMDI) decomposition techniques to assess the relationships between these paramount factors from 1990 to 2016. The LMDI analysis reveals that EG and population are the main contributors to carbon emissions (CE), whereas carbon intensity reduces the environmental impact. However, energy intensity and energy structure have depicted mixed effects on CE. Further, Tapio analysis reveals that Singapore has experienced strong decoupling (SD) in most study years. Additionally, expensive negative decoupling (END), weak decoupling (WD), and strong negative decoupling (SND) were also observed during the study period. An expanded decomposition analysis reveals that population and EG deteriorate environmental quality in Singapore. While carbon intensity is the critical driver that strengthens the decoupling progress, energy intensity and structure depict a mixed effect on the decoupling process.
Entropy generation analysis on forced and free convection flow in a vertical porous channel with aligned magnetic field and Navier slip
Authors: Balamurugan K. S. , Varma N. UdayaBhaskara , Prasad J. L. Rama
Published: May 2023

The entropy generation rate in a vertical porous channel with injection and suction walls and a uniform magnetic field provided at an angle to the flow direction is studied using an analytical perturbation technique in the presence of Navier slip and buoyancy force. The momentum and energy equations were solved for exemplary values of fluid convection's physical characteristics. Important parameters' impacts on adequate numbers are graphically portrayed and conveyed.
Heat transfer rotating MHD two‐liquid slip flow regime with Hall current
Authors: Raju T. Linga , Satish P.
Published: May 2023

In this paper, we examine the effect of thermal radiation on rotating magnetohydrodynamic two liquid flows of ionized gasses past horizontal channel under slip and Hall conditions. The fluids in the two zones are considered to be immiscible, incompressible, and electrically conducting with various viscosities, thermal and electrical conductivities. We derive the exact solutions for the temperature profiles and coefficients of heat transfer rate at the plates in the two zones by solving governing equations in the presence of slip‐regime analytically. The temperature fields have been figured for various sets of values of the involved governing characteristics to analyze the behavior of heat transport. It has been noted that there is an enhancement in the temperature profile as the slip parameter rises for fixed values of the remaining parameters. Also, stimulations occur in the temperature field, with an increment in Taylor's number. This study may have some significant implementations in biomedical science such as destroying cancer cells during the drug delivery treatment, polishing damaged internal cavities, heart valves, and so forth.
Human rights approaches to reducing infertility
Authors: Shah Payal K. , Gher Jaime M.
Published: May 2023

In April 2023, the World Health Organization (WHO) issued new estimates affirming that one in six individuals experience infertility globally. Yet, many states are unclear on their responsibility to prevent infertility, ensure access to treatment, and to end the harm suffered by individuals who are considered infertile. Responding to this uncertainty, in June 2023, the United Nations Office of the High Commissioner on Human Rights (OHCHR) issued a new research paper explaining states' legal obligations regarding infertility. Importantly, OHCHR underscores that states must take steps to prevent infertility by addressing its root causes and ensure access to treatment. Further, states must address the negative consequences of infertility, including stigma and violence, as well as the discriminatory stereotypes that lead to certain groups facing disproportionate harm from infertility. This article provides an overview of the OHCHR report and explains what this means for healthcare providers, who have a critical role to play in providing care and advocating for legal and policy reform necessary to prevent, diagnose, and treat infertility.
Buying time: The effect of Market Facilitation Program payments on the supply of grain storage
Authors: Janzen Joseph P. , Swearingen Bryn , Yu Jisang
Published: May 2023

We estimate the impact of an unprecedented surge in ad hoc farm payments on grain inventories held by farmers. Payments thought to be decoupled from production may still distort markets if they affect other outcomes such as inventories. Through the Market Facilitation Program, US farmers received approximately 23 billion dollars over two marketing years. The economic theory of commodity storage suggests such a cash injection can increase inventories by lowering the opportunity cost of storage. Using a panel event study framework, we find Market Facilitation Program payments significantly increased grain storage by US farmers without similar impacts on off‐farm inventories.
The genetics of gaming: A longitudinal twin study
Authors: Nilsson Anders , Kuja‐Halkola Ralf , Lichtenstein Paul , Larsson Henrik , Lundström Sebastian , Fatouros‐Bergman Helena , Jayaram‐Lindström Nitya , Molero Yasmina
Published: May 2023

Background

Gaming is a popular past‐time activity among children and adolescents, but it there is also a possible link to negative consequences such as psychological distress and lowered academic achievement. However, there are fundamental knowledge gaps remaining regarding central characteristics of gaming such as heritability, stability over time, and sex differences. We examined the genetic and environmental contribution to gaming behavior, including sex differences, continuity and change, in a longitudinal cohort of twins.

Methods

This is the first longitudinal twin study on gaming, involving 32,006 twins in Sweden. Parents were asked about the twins' gaming at ages 9, 15 and 18. We used univariate and multivariate twin analyses to estimate the relative contribution of genetic and environmental influences at each time‐point as well as across time. Sex‐differences were also explored.

Results

The results showed large sex differences, where genetics explained more of the variance for boys (31.3%–62.5% depending on age) than for girls (19.4%–23.4%). Genetic factors explained an increasing amount of the variance for boys (31.3% at age 9, 62.5% at age 15 and 53.9% at age 18). Shared environmental factors explained a larger proportion of the variance among girls, which remained relatively stable over time (70.5% at age 9, 61.8% at age 15 and 60.5% at age 18). The results also indicated that most of the variance came from genetic and environmental sources specific to each age.

Conclusions

Compared to many other behavioral phenotypes, such as gambling, gaming was relatively unstable with a large degree of genetic innovation. There were large sex differences in the contribution of genetic and environmental factors. This suggests that excessive gaming could be the result of age‐ and sex‐specific genetic and environmental factors, and should be taken into account when mapping gaming behaviors, since these behaviors might be under continual etiological transformation.
Self‐explanation activities in statics: A knowledge‐building activity to promote conceptual change
Authors: De La Hoz Jose Luis , Vieira Camilo , Arteta Carlos
Published: May 2023

Background

The complexity and diversity of problems and concepts in different engineering subjects represent a great challenge for students. Traditional approaches to teaching statics are ineffective in helping some students overcome the learning barriers that underlie learning statics and developing problem‐solving skills.

Purpose

This article explores how self‐explanation activities may support student learning in statics. Specifically, this study examines the characteristics of student self‐explanations of worked examples and their relationship with students′ conceptual change.

Design/Method

The study population included 147 undergraduate engineering students enrolled in a statics course. The students wrote their self‐explanations at each step of an incomplete or incorrect worked example in the context of static equilibrium. Students′ self‐explanations were qualitatively analyzed using content analysis to identify the approaches used. We used descriptive and inferential statistics to identify differences in students′ conceptual understanding of statics, based on their approach to self‐explanation.

Results

We identified four self‐explaining approaches: restricted explanations, elemental explanations, inferential explanations, and strategic explanations. After completing the activity, students who self‐explained incomplete worked examples showed better results in the quality of their explanations and conceptual change than students in the incorrect worked example condition.

Conclusions

The findings suggest a relationship between the type of worked example, students' approaches to self‐explaining, and their conceptual change and problem‐solving skills in statics. To increase the quality of the students' explanations and to improve their conceptual understanding, additional prompts or initial training in self‐explaining may be required within the worked‐examples context.
Medicare beneficiary barriers to genetic counselor services: Implications for patient policy, decision‐making, and care
Authors: Riordan Sara , Richardson John , Zierhut Heather , Goodnight Bradley L. , Sieling Fred H. , Black Christopher M. , Moore Rebekah A.
Published: May 2023

If passed, the “Access to Genetic Counselor Services Act” will authorize genetic counselors to provide services under Medicare part B. We assert that Medicare policy should be updated through the enactment of this legislation to provide Medicare beneficiaries with direct access to genetic counselor services. In this article, we discuss the background, history, and some recent research relevant to patient access to genetic counselors to provide context and perspective regarding the rationale, justification, and potential results of the proposed legislation. We outline the potential impact of Medicare policy reform, including the effect on access to genetic counselors in high‐demand areas or underserved communities. Although the proposed legislation pertains only to Medicare, we argue that private systems will also be impacted by passage as this may lead to an increase in hiring and retention of genetic counselors by health systems, thereby improving access to genetic counselors across the US.
Climate change impacts on snow cover area and snowmelt runoff in the Ajichai Basin‐Iran
Authors: Goodarzi Mohammad Reza , Sabaghzadeh Maryam , Fatehifar Atiyeh , Attar Nasrin Fathollahzadeh
Published: May 2023

During snowmelt in mountainous areas, runoff can play an important role in providing water to the region. This study examined the effect of climate change on runoff in Ajichai, Iran, since it affects air warming and faster melting of snow and ice. Using the sixth report provided by IPCC, the future temperature and precipitation in the years 2015–2100 were predicted using two scenarios, SSP1‐2.6 and SSP5‐8.5. According to the results, the average annual minimum and maximum temperatures would increase by 1° during this period, but precipitation would decrease by about 3%. Based on the Snow Runoff Model (SRM) model and the snow cover area (SCA) obtained from Google Earth Engine and MODIS daily images from 2013 to 2018, runoff caused by snow melting was simulated. Based on the Pearson correlation coefficient between snow cover and temperature and precipitation, the SCA was estimated in three decades: 2031–2040, 2061–2070, and 2091–2100. With reasonable accuracy, the SRM was able to simulate runoff. In the SSP1 scenario, the SCA in spring and winter will remain the same throughout all three decades, but in the SSP5 scenario, it will decrease by about 17%. In the future, the runoff will decrease by up to 6% in the winter and increase in the spring.
Last Interglacial–Glacial sequence of palaeosols and calcareous slope deposits at Verteuil (Charente, southwest France)
Authors: Puyrigaud Jules , Bertran Pascal , Lebrun Brice , Lahaye Christelle , Guerin Guillaume , Limondin‐Lozouet Nicole
Published: May 2023

The 12 m thick sequence of calcareous slope deposits and palaeosols exposed in a quarry at Verteuil (southwest France) has been studied and dated by optically stimulated luminescence. Emphasis was given to the identification and characterisation of palaeosols through geochemistry and micromorphology. The main clastic units, separated by major unconformities, were dated to MIS 6, MIS 5–4 and MIS 3–2. Stratified deposits (‘grèzes litées’), consisting of alternating diamictic and matrix‐free clastic beds and attributed to stacked stone‐banked solifluction lobes, developed mainly after ca. 40 ka, i.e. during late MIS 3 and MIS 2. MIS 3 is recorded as a palaeosol complex including two humic A horizons overlying a chromic cambisol associated with burrows of ground squirrels, while MIS 5 corresponds to a reworked rubified chromic cambisol. Overall, this sequence shows similarities with the clastic deposits found in regional cave porches and rock shelters, strongly suggesting that anthropogenic activities did not significantly modify the climate‐driven sedimentary and soil‐forming processes at the Palaeolithic sites.
Health and social consequences for survivors of genocidal rape: A systematic scoping review
Authors: Varshney Karan , Chu Minh Giao , Shet Pavan , Hopkins Jade , Braga Francesca , Ghosh Prerana
Published: May 2023

The unique forms of trauma experienced by survivors of genocidal rape are not well understood. Hence, we conducted a systematic scoping review regarding the consequences for survivors of rape during genocide. Searches conducted in PubMed, Global Health, Scopus, PyscInfo, and Embase produced a total of 783 articles. After completing the screening process, 34 articles were eligible for inclusion in the review. The included articles focus on survivors from six different genocides, with most focusing on either the genocide of the Tutsis in Rwanda or the Yazidis in Iraq. The study findings consistently show that survivors deal with stigmatization as well as a lack of both financial and psychological social support. This lack of support is partly due to social ostracization and shame but is also attributed to the fact that many survivors’ families and other providers of social support were murdered during the violence. Many survivors, particularly young girls, reported dealing with intense forms of trauma both as a direct result of sexual violence and due to witnessing the death of their community members during the period of genocide. A notable proportion of survivors became pregnant from genocidal rape and contracted HIV. Group therapy was shown to improve mental health outcomes across numerous studies. These findings have important implications and can inform recovery process efforts. Psychosocial supports, stigma reduction campaigns, community reestablishment, and financial assistance are integral in facilitating recovery. These findings can also play an important role in shaping refugee support programs.
Concentration Effects of Methylprednisolone in Human Vocal Fold Fibroblast–Macrophage Co‐Culture
Authors: Nakamura Ryosuke , Bing Renjie , Gartling Gary J. , Garabedian Michael J. , Branski Ryan C.
Published: May 2023

Objective

The diversity of glucocorticoid (GC) properties may underlie variability of clinical efficacy for vocal fold (VF) disease. Optimized therapeutic approaches must account for tissue complexity as well as interactions between cell types. We previously reported that reduced GC concentrations inhibited inflammation without eliciting fibrosis in mono‐cultured VF fibroblasts and macrophages. These data suggested that a refined approach to GC concentration may improve outcomes. In the current study, co‐culture of VF fibroblasts and macrophages was employed to investigate the effects of different concentrations of methylprednisolone on fibrotic and inflammatory response genes in VF fibroblasts to optimize management paradigms.

Study Design

In vitro.

Methods

THP‐1 monocyte‐derived macrophages were stimulated with interferon‐γ (IFN‐γ), lipopolysaccharide (LPS), or transforming growth factor‐β (TGF‐β) to induce inflammatory (M(IFN/LPS)) and fibrotic (M(TGF)) phenotypes. Macrophages were then co‐cultured with a human VF fibroblast cell line using a 0.4 μm pore membrane with or without 0.1–3000 nM methylprednisolone. Inflammatory (CXCL10, TNF, and PTGS2) and fibrotic (ACTA2, CCN2, and COL1A1) gene expression was quantified in fibroblasts.

Results

Incubating VF fibroblasts with M(IFN/LPS) macrophages increased expression of TNF and PTGS2, and this effect was inhibited by methylprednisolone. Incubation of VF fibroblasts with M(TGF) macrophages increased expression of ACTA2, CCN2, and COL1A1, and this effect was enhanced by methylprednisolone. The concentration of methylprednisolone required to downregulate inflammatory genes (TNF and PTGS2) was lower than that to upregulate fibrotic genes (ACTA2, CCN2, and COL1A1).

Conclusion

Reduced concentration of methylprednisolone effectively suppressed inflammatory genes without enhancing fibrotic genes, suggesting that a refined approach to GC concentration may improve clinical outcomes.

Level of Evidence

N/A Laryngoscope, 133:3116–3122, 2023
The effect of self‐management vestibular rehabilitation on persistent postural‐perceptual dizziness
Authors: Fujimoto Chisato , Oka Mineko , Ichijo Kentaro , Kinoshita Makoto , Kamogashira Teru , Sugasawa Keiko , Kawahara Takuya , Yamasoba Tatsuya
Published: May 2023

Objective

To investigate the effects of self‐management vestibular rehabilitation (VR) on the subjective symptoms of dizziness and postural stability in persistent postural‐perceptual dizziness (PPPD).

Study design

Retrospective case review.

Methods

The medical records of 30 patients newly diagnosed with PPPD based on the Bárány Society's diagnostic criteria were reviewed. Nineteen patients (4 males and 15 females; age range 27–84 years, mean age ± standard deviation 57.4 ± 14.2 years) who was newly instructed to self‐management VR were included and instructed to perform self‐management VR for 2 months.

Results

One patient did not visit the outpatient clinic again, and in the remaining 18 patients, 4 (22%) discontinued VR at their own discretion. In the 12 patients who completed 2 months of VR (67%), there was a significant improvement in Niigata PPPD Questionnaire (NPQ) and Dizziness Handicap Inventory (DHI) scores after VR compared to those before VR (p < .05). However, the mean velocity of center of pressure (COP) movement (velocity) and the envelopment area traced by COP movement (area), as well as the Romberg ratio and foam ratio of velocity and area, did not differ significantly after VR when compared to those before VR (p > .05).

Conclusions

For PPPD, self‐management VR improved subjective symptoms of dizziness, but not stability of standing posture. It is necessary to improve patients' adherence to the treatment.

Level of evidence

4.
Anomalous Lateral Optical Force as a Manifestation of the Optical Transverse Spin
Authors: Yu Xinning , Li Yaxin , Xu Bijun , Wang Xiaogang , Zhang Lei , Chen Jun , Lin Zhifang , Chan Che Ting
Published: May 2023

Interacting with an evanescent wave, an achiral particle can experience a lateral optical force (LOF) in a direction which is perpendicular to that of the illuminating photon momentum while the system apparently has the left–right symmetry. Here, using the Cartesian multipole expansion theory, a general relationship between LOF and spin and momentum is established. Most importantly, it is demonstrated that an anomalous LOF exerted on an isotropic achiral particle of arbitrary size and composition is proportional to the optical transverse spin in the incident evanescent wave that carries pure transverse spin associated with spin‐momentum locking. Manifesting itself as a mechanical consequence of the Berry phase effect, this anomalous LOF suggests a direct detectability of the transverse spin of light, as well as mimicking the transverse shift of light in the spin Hall effect of photons.
Broadband 32 × 32 Strictly‐Nonblocking Optical Switch on a Multi‐Layer Si3N4‐on‐SOI Platform
Authors: Gao Wei , Li Xin , Lu Liangjun , Liu Chenghan , Chen Jianping , Zhou Linjie
Published: May 2023

Large‐scale silicon optical switches are essential to support the ever‐increasing data traffic. Among the various switching architectures, the well‐known switch‐and‐select (S&S) architecture has the advantages of low crosstalk and strict non‐blocking. However, it suffers from high path‐dependent losses as the waveguide crossings increase dramatically with the number of ports. In this paper, a large‐scale 32 × 32 S&S optical switch on a multi‐layer Si3N4‐on‐SOI platform is reported. The optical switch chip incorporates 1984 broadband thermo‐optic Mach‐Zehnder interferometer (MZI)‐based switch elements, 246 016 three‐dimensional (3D) waveguide crossings, and 2048 interlayer couplers. Both ≈1‐mdB‐loss 3D waveguide crossings and ≈0.3‐dB‐loss interlayer couplers are realized, significantly reducing the overall insertion loss and footprint of the switch chip. The measured average fiber‐to‐fiber insertion loss is 12.88 dB at the 1580 nm wavelength. In addition, the crosstalk is less than −20.7 dB over the 110‐nm wavelength range. The power consumption of the entire switch chip is only ≈0.98 W due to the air trenches and substrate undercut. High‐fidelity optical transmission of a 50 Gb s−1 quadrature phase‐shift keying signal verifies the high‐performance routing capability of this chip. These results indicate that the large‐scale optical switch with broadband, low crosstalk, and high‐power efficiency is promising for datacenter optical network applications.
The subset relation and 2‐stratified sentences in set theory and class theory
Authors: McKenzie Zachiri
Published: May 2023

Hamkins and Kikuchi (2016, 2017) show that in both set theory and class theory the definable subset ordering of the universe interprets a complete and decidable theory. This paper identifies the minimum subsystem of , , that ensures that the definable subset ordering of the universe interprets a complete theory, and classifies the structures that can be realised as the subset relation in a model of this set theory. Extending and refining Hamkins and Kikuchi's result for class theory, a complete extension, , of the theory of infinite atomic boolean algebras and a minimum subsystem, , of are identified with the property that if is a model of , then is a model of , where M is the underlying set of , is the unary predicate that distinguishes sets from classes and is the definable subset relation. These results are used to show that that decides every 2‐stratified sentence of set theory and decides every 2‐stratified sentence of class theory.
Polymeric Bowl‐Shaped Nanoparticles: Hollow Structures with a Large Opening on the Surface
Authors: Sun Hui , Gao Yaning , Fan Yirong , Du Jianzhong , Jiang Jinhui , Gao Chenchen
Published: May 2023

Polymeric bowl‐shaped nanoparticles (BNPs) are anisotropic hollow structures with large openings on the surface, which have shown advantages such as high specific area and efficient encapsulation, delivery and release of large‐sized cargoes on demand compared to solid nanoparticles or closed hollow structures. Several strategies have been developed to prepare BNPs based on either template or template‐free methods. For instance, despite the widely used self‐assembly strategy, alternative methods including emulsion polymerization, swelling and freeze‐drying of polymeric spheres, and template‐assisted approaches have also been developed. It is attractive but still challenging to fabricate BNPs due to their unique structural features. However, there is still no comprehensive summary of BNPs up to now, which significantly hinders the further development of this field. In this review, the recent progress of BNPs will be highlighted from the perspectives of design strategies, preparation methods, formation mechanisms, and emerging applications. Moreover, the future perspectives of BNPs will also be proposed.
Unrevealing the connection between real sample analysis and analytical method. The case of cytokines
Authors: Irimeș Maria‐Bianca , Tertiș Mihaela , Oprean Radu , Cristea Cecilia
Published: May 2023

Cytokines are compounds that belong to a special class of signaling biomolecules that are responsible for several functions in the human body, being involved in cell growth, inflammatory, and neoplastic processes. Thus, they represent valuable biomarkers for diagnosing and drug therapy monitoring certain medical conditions. Because cytokines are secreted in the human body, they can be detected in both conventional samples, such as blood or urine, but also in samples less used in medical practice such as sweat or saliva. As the importance of cytokines was identified, various analytical methods for their determination in biological fluids were reported. The gold standard in cytokine detection is considered the enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay method and the most recent ones have been considered and compared in this study. It is known that the conventional methods are accompanied by a few disadvantages that new methods of analysis, especially electrochemical sensors, are trying to overcome. Electrochemical sensors proved to be suited for the elaboration of integrated, portable, and wearable sensing devices, which could also facilitate cytokines determination in medical practice.
Editorial: Atmospheric processes and applications in urban, coastal and mountainous terrain
Authors: Kossmann Meinolf , Giovannini Lorenzo
Published: May 2023

This editorial introduces the contributions to the Special Issue ‘Atmospheric processes and applications in urban, coastal, and mountainous terrain’ of the journal Meteorological Applications. The scientific background and motivation for this Special Issue are described and followed by a brief summary of the 15 articles of this Special Issue. The conclusions of this Editorial summarise the approaches taken and address future developments expected in process‐oriented studies and for the development of applications in complex terrain.
New assessment helps companies take pulse of workforce mental health
Authors: Enos Gary
Published: May 2023

(Editor's note: In each issue of MHW during Mental Health Awareness Month, we will feature an innovative initiative in mental health advocacy/promotion.)
SAMHSA leader discusses youth MH care access, CCBHCs
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: May 2023

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Miriam Delphin‐Rittmon, Ph.D., assistant secretary for mental health and substance use, earlier this month participated in Conversations on Health Care, a radio show about the opportunities for reform and innovation in the health care system. Hosted by Community Health Center, Inc., the airing of the show coincided with the end of the COVID‐19 public health emergency on May 11.
Depression rates soaring, especially among women, youth
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: May 2023

Rates of experiencing clinical depression in one's lifetime and/or current depression have both hit new highs according to a recent Gallup poll that found women and young adults reporting the great increases in depression.