bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ossicular joint histopathology in cases of age‐related hearing loss
Authors: Roychowdhury Prithwijit , Castillo‐Bustamante Melissa , Polanik Marc D. , Kozin Elliott D. , Remenschneider Aaron K.
Published: February 2024

Objectives

Age‐related hearing loss (presbycusis) is a prevalent condition traditionally attributed to inner ear dysfunction. Little is known about age‐related changes in the ossicular joints or their contribution to presbycusis. Herein, we performed an otopathologic evaluation of the ossicular joints in cases of presbycusis without a clear sensorineural explanation.

Methods

Histopathologic analysis of the incudomallear (IM) and incudostapedial (IS) joints was performed in specimens from the National Temporal Bone Registry with audiometrically confirmed presbycusis but without histologically observed sensorineural, strial, or mixed features; deemed cases of “indeterminate” presbycusis. Specimens identified as “indeterminate” presbycusis (IP, n = 18) were compared to specimens with histologically confirmed sensorineural presbycusis (n = 16) and strial presbycusis (n = 11). Presbycutic specimens were also compared to age‐matched controls (n = 9) and young controls (n = 14).

Results

The synovial space at the center of the IM joint was wider in the IP group (194 ± 36.8 μm) compared to age‐matched controls (138 ± 36.5 μm), young controls (149 ± 32.2 μm), and ears with sensorineural presbycusis (148 ± 52.7 μm) (p < .05). The synovial space within the IS joint was wider in the IP group (105 ± 33.0 μm) when compared to age‐matched controls (57.9 ± 13.1 μm) and ears with sensorineural presbycusis (62.3 ± 31.2 μm) (p < .05).

Conclusion

IP ears have wider IM and IS joints when compared to ears with sensorineural presbycusis and age‐matched controls. Findings point to a potential middle ear source of high frequency conductive hearing loss in a subset of presbycutic ears.

Level of Evidence

Retrospective study.
TOTAL SELF‐TRANSFORMATION USING MINDFULNESS
Authors: Sethi Deepak
Published: February 2024

The author is a longtime corporate leader with extensive experience running executive development programs. He writes about the effective use of mindfulness for personal and professional development, including demystifying the term itself. He wants readers to “understand, explore, practice, get into the habit of and own the full extent of the amazing power of the dual approach of mindfulness meditation and of living mindfully.” He explains a “simple, practical, and powerful framework. It blends ancient Indian and Buddhist wisdom with current findings of neuroscience and my work in leadership development with corporate America. My dual approach has two key components. First, practicing 10 minutes of deep breathing every day to settle the mind, immediately followed by mindfulness meditation for 20 minutes, for a total of 30 minutes.” Noting that most of us take our minds for granted, he claims that “practicing mindfulness meditation every day is the equivalent to physical exercise, in terms of keeping the mind calm and functioning at its very peak. Living mindfully in the moment by observing our thoughts and feelings on an ongoing basis creates constant awareness. This awareness becomes sharper over time and is a prerequisite for personal change.”
Home cooking in the digital age: When observing food influencers on social media triggers the imitation of their practices
Authors: Sokolova Karina , Vessal Saeedeh Rezaee , Perez Charles
Published: February 2024

Social media influencers are effective in influencing the purchase intention of their audience. Aside from products, influencers also promote certain lifestyles and behaviors. Food influencers, for example, frequently feature home cooking, a healthier behavior compared to snacking or dining out. This study explored the potential of social media influencers in promoting such behavior. Driven by social cognitive theory, we explored whether self‐efficacy, perceived benefits, and concerns (social, entertainment, health, and economic) relate to the intention of the audience to cook at home following the recipes an Instagram influencer provides. We conducted three separate studies (two surveys and one experiment) with a French population of social network platform users. Our results showed that the entertainment value of an observed behavior is the main driver for imitation on social media, along with self‐efficacy, at least for women. Mixed results were obtained for social benefits. The perceived ease of the recipe, cooking experience, and explicit verbal encouragement were positively related to self‐efficacy. Surprisingly, the effect of health and economic benefits or concerns and labeling was not confirmed.
Nanotechnology and bioengineering approaches to improve the potency of mesenchymal stem cell as an off‐the‐shelf versatile tumor delivery vehicle
Authors: Taheri Mojtaba , Tehrani Hossein Abdul , Dehghani Sadegh , Alibolandi Mona , Arefian Ehsan , Ramezani Mohammad
Published: February 2024

Targeting actionable mutations in oncogene‐driven cancers and the evolution of immuno‐oncology are the two prominent revolutions that have influenced cancer treatment paradigms and caused the emergence of precision oncology. However, intertumoral and intratumoral heterogeneity are the main challenges in both fields of precision cancer treatment. In other words, finding a universal marker or pathway in patients suffering from a particular type of cancer is challenging. Therefore, targeting a single hallmark or pathway with a single targeted therapeutic will not be efficient for fighting against tumor heterogeneity. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) possess favorable characteristics for cellular therapy, including their hypoimmune nature, inherent tumor‐tropism property, straightforward isolation, and multilineage differentiation potential. MSCs can be loaded with various chemotherapeutics and oncolytic viruses. The combination of these intrinsic features with the possibility of genetic manipulation makes them a versatile tumor delivery vehicle that can be used for in vivo selective tumor delivery of various chemotherapeutic and biological therapeutics. MSCs can be used as biofactory for the local production of chemical or biological anticancer agents at the tumor site. MSC‐mediated immunotherapy could facilitate the sustained release of immunotherapeutic agents specifically at the tumor site, and allow for the achievement of therapeutic concentrations without the need for repetitive systemic administration of high therapeutic doses. Despite the enthusiasm evoked by preclinical studies that used MSC in various cancer therapy approaches, the translation of MSCs into clinical applications has faced serious challenges. This manuscript, with a critical viewpoint, reviewed the preclinical and clinical studies that have evaluated MSCs as a selective tumor delivery tool in various cancer therapy approaches, including gene therapy, immunotherapy, and chemotherapy. Then, the novel nanotechnology and bioengineering approaches that can improve the potency of MSC for tumor targeting and overcoming challenges related to their low localization at the tumor sites are discussed.
Cuproptosis: Mechanism, role, and advances in urological malignancies
Authors: Wu Jialong , He Jide , Liu Zenan , Zhu Xuehua , Li Ziang , Chen Anjing , Lu Jian
Published: February 2024

Prostate, bladder, and kidney cancers are the most common malignancies of the urinary system. Chemotherapeutic drugs are generally used as adjuvant treatment in the middle, late, or recurrence stages after surgery for urologic cancers. However, traditional chemotherapy is plagued by problems such as poor efficacy, severe side effects, and complications. Copper‐containing nanomedicines are promising novel cancer treatment modalities that can potentially overcome these disadvantages. Copper homeostasis and cuproptosis play crucial roles in the development, adaptability, and therapeutic sensitivity of urological malignancies. Cuproptosis refers to the direct binding of copper ions to lipoylated components of the tricarboxylic acid cycle, leading to protein oligomerization, loss of iron–sulfur proteins, proteotoxic stress, and cell death. This review focuses on copper homeostasis and cuproptosis as well as recent findings on copper and cuproptosis in urological malignancies. Furthermore, we highlight the potential therapeutic applications of copper‐ and cuproptosis‐targeted therapies to better understand cuproptosis‐based drugs for the treatment of urological tumors in the future.
Protective Effect of Vitexin Against IL‐17‐Induced Vascular Endothelial Inflammation Through Keap1/Nrf2‐Dependent Signaling Pathway
Authors: Gan Ting , Xing Qian , Li Nan , Deng Zeyuan , Pan Changxuan , Liu Xiaoru , Zheng Liufeng
Published: February 2024

Scope

Vitexin, a C‐glycosylated flavonoid, is abundant in food sources and has potential health‐beneficial properties. However, the targets for its beneficial effects remain largely unknown. This study aims to establish an in vitro cell model of vascular low‐grade inflammation and explore the antiinflammatory mechanism of vitexin.

Methods and Results

Low‐dose TNFα and IL‐17 are combined to establish a cell model of vascular low‐grade inflammation. Cell‐based studies show that low‐dose TNFα (1 ng mL−1) alone has a slight effect, but its combination with IL‐17 can potently induce protein expression of inflammatory cytokines, leading to an inflammatory state. However, the vascular inflammation caused by low‐dose TNF plus IL‐17 does not lead to oxidative stress, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) does not involved in developing this inflammation. Vitexin can be absorbed by human umbilical vein endothelial (HUVEC) cells to increase the Nrf2 protein level and attenuate inflammation. In addition, the antiinflammatory effect of vitexin is blocked by the knockdown of Nrf2. Further localized surface plasmon resonance, drug affinity responsive target stability, and molecular docking demonstrate that vitexin can directly interact with Keap1 to disrupt Keap1‐Nrf2 interaction and thus activate Nrf2. Treatment of mice with a bolus oral gavage of vitexin (100 mg kg−1 body weight) or a high‐fat diet supplemented with vitexin (5 mg kg−1 body weight per day) for 12 weeks confirms the rapid increase in blood vitexin levels and subsequent incorporation into blood vessels to activate Nrf2 and ameliorate inflammation in vivo.

Conclusion

The findings provide a reliable cell model of vascular low‐grade inflammation and indicate Nrf2 protein as the potential target of vitexin to inhibit vascular inflammation.
Study on fiber Fabry–Perot displacement sensor for vibration monitoring of fuel pin
Authors: Lin Cheng , Wang Ning , Chen Jianjun , Yan Xueyang , Zhang Xuelian , Cai Yan
Published: February 2024

Measuring the vibration displacement of the fuel pin is crucial for determining the vibration level and monitoring the condition of the fuel pin and assembly. A miniaturized displacement sensor based on the fiber Fabry–Perot (F–P) was designed and fabricated, and the overall cylindrical dimensions of the encapsulated fiber F–P sensor were 30 mm × 6.5 mm. Its working principle, characteristics, and structure parameters were analyzed in detail. Experimental results showed that the measurement range of displacements was up to approximately 1250 μm in humid environment. And the root mean squared error values of ~0.112 and ~0.144 showed that the sensor worked well in humid and high‐temperature environments. Experimental results indicated that the developed F–P sensor, featuring compact dimensions and high performance, had significant application value and great potential for monitoring the vibration and accessing the damage of the fuel pins.
A physically constrained Monte Carlo–Neural Network coupling algorithm for BNCT dose calculation
Authors: Wang Yongquan , Du Junliang , Lin Huan , Guan Xingcai , Zhang Lu , Li Jinyang , Gu Long
Published: February 2024

Background

In boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT)—a form of binary radiotherapy—the primary challenge in treatment planning systems for dose calculations arises from the time‐consuming nature of the Monte Carlo (MC) method. Recent progress, including the use of neural networks (NN), has been made to accelerate BNCT dose calculations. However, this approach may result in significant dose errors in both the tumor and the skin, with the latter being a critical organ in BNCT. Furthermore, owing to the lack of physical processes in purely NN‐based approaches, their reliability for clinical dose calculations in BNCT is questionable.

Purpose

In this study, a physically constrained MC–NN (PCMC–NN) coupling algorithm is proposed to achieve fast and accurate computation of the BNCT three‐dimensional (3D) therapeutic dose distribution. This approach synergizes the high precision of the MC method with the speed of the NN and utilizes physical conservation laws to constrain the coupling process. It addresses the time‐consuming issue of the traditional MC method while reducing dose errors.

Methods

Clinical data were collected from 113 glioblastoma patients. For each patient, the 3D dose distributions for both the coarse and detailed dose grids were calculated using the MC code PHITS. Among these patients, the data from 14 patients were allocated to the test set, 9 to the validation set, and the remaining to the training set. A neural network, 3D‐Unet, was built based on the coarse grid dose and patient CT information to enable fast and accurate computation of the 3D detailed grid dose distribution of BNCT.

Results

Statistical evaluations, including relative deviation, dose deviation, mean absolute error (MAE), and mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) were conducted. Our findings suggested that the PCMC–NN algorithm substantially outperformed the traditional NN and interpolation methods. Furthermore, the proposed algorithm significantly reduced errors, particularly in the skin and GTV, and improved computational accuracy (hereinafter referred to simply as ‘accuracy’) with a MAPE range of 1.6%–4.0% and a maximum MAE of 0.3 Gy (IsoE) for different organs. The dose–volume histograms generated by the PCMC–NN aligned well with those obtained from the MC method, further validating its accuracy.

Conclusions

The PCMC–NN algorithm enhanced the speed and accuracy of BNCT dose calculations by combining the MC method with the NN algorithm. This indicates the significant potential of the proposed algorithm for clinical applications in optimizing treatment planning.
Novel clinical diagnostic criteria based on noninvasive examination findings to predict the presence of urodynamic detrusor underactivity in men
Authors: Matsukawa Yoshihisa , Majima Tsuyoshi , Mori Aya , Kamizyo Shunsuke , Naito Yushi , Matsuo Kazuna , Ishida Shohei , Gotoh Momokazu , Akamatsu Shusuke
Published: February 2024

Aims

To investigate the usefulness of novel clinical diagnostic criteria based on noninvasive examination findings to diagnose urodynamic detrusor underactivity (DU) in men.

Methods

We developed clinical diagnostic criteria to predict the presence of urodynamic DU in men as follows: (a) bladder voiding efficiency <70% on uroflowmetry, (b) existence of “sawtooth and interrupted waveforms” on uroflowmetry, and (c) ultrasonography‐documented intravesical prostatic protrusion <10 mm. We analyzed the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) of these clinical criteria for diagnosing urodynamic DU in men aged 50 years or above with lower urinary tract symptoms who underwent urodynamic studies.

Results

Of the 314 men analyzed (mean age, 72.4 years; mean detrusor contraction index [DCI], 98.8; and mean bladder outlet obstruction index [BOOI], 43.9), 89 men met this clinical DU diagnostic criteria. Of these, 79 men (88.8%) had urodynamic DU (DCI < 100 and BOOI < 40), nine (10.1%) had DU + BOO (DCI < 100 and BOOI ≥ 40), and one (1.1%) had normal voiding functions. None of the men with urodynamic BOO (DCI ≥ 100 and BOOI ≥ 40) met the clinical DU diagnostic criteria. The sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV of these clinical diagnostic criteria for urodynamic DU were 69.3%, 95.0%, 88.8%, and 84.4%, respectively.

Conclusion

The proposed clinical DU diagnostic criteria showed a high PPV (88.8%) for diagnosing urodynamic DU. None of the patients with BOO met the clinical diagnostic criteria for DU. These clinical DU diagnostic criteria may be useful in identifying men with urodynamic DU in clinical practice.
When It's Not Allergic Rhinitis: Clinical Signs to Raise a Patient's Suspicion for Chronic Rhinosinusitis
Authors: Houssein Firas A. , Phillips Katie M. , Sedaghat Ahmad R.
Published: February 2024

Objective

To identify predictors of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) in patients presenting with the chief complaint of nasal allergies.

Study Design

Cross‐sectional study.

Setting

Tertiary care, academic center.

Methods

Clinical and demographic characteristics were collected from participants who were patients presenting with the chief complaint of nasal allergies. From all participants, a 22‐item Sinonasal Outcome Test (SNOT‐22) was collected, and a modified Lund‐Kennedy endoscopy score was calculated from nasal endoscopy. Association was sought between having CRS and variables of clinical and demographic characteristics, SNOT‐22, and endoscopy score.

Results

A total of 219 patients were recruited and 91.3% were diagnosed with allergic rhinitis; 45.2% were also diagnosed with CRS. Approximately half of the patients with CRS reported no intranasal corticosteroid usage. Having CRS was associated with male sex (odds ratio [OR] = 2.29, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.30‐4.04, P = .004), endoscopy score (OR = 1.96, 95% CI: 1.59‐2.42, P < .001), and the SNOT‐22 nasal subdomain score (OR = 1.07, 95% CI: 1.03‐1.11, P = .001) related to SNOT‐22 items: “need to blow nose,” “thick nasal discharge,” “sense of taste/smell,” and “blockage/congestion of nose.” At least moderate (item score ≥3) “blockage/congestion of nose” or “thick nasal discharge,” mild “need to blow nose” (item score ≥2) or very mild decreased “sense of taste/smell” (item score ≥1), and any nasal endoscopy findings (endoscopy score ≥1) were statistically significant predictors of CRS.

Conclusion

Moderate or more severe nasal obstruction or discharge symptoms, any decreased sense of smell/taste, or positive nasal endoscopy findings in patients believing they have allergic rhinitis should prompt further evaluation of CRS to avoid delays in treatment.
Neonatal hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis: A meta‐analysis of 205 cases
Authors: Kranz Lincoln A. , Hahn Wyatt S. , Thompson Whitney S. , Hentz Roland , Kobrinsky Nathan L. , Galardy Paul , Greenmyer Jacob R.
Published: February 2024

Background

Neonatal hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (nHLH), defined as HLH that presents in the first month of life, is clinically devastating. There have been few large descriptive studies of nHLH.

Objectives

The objective of this study was to perform a meta‐analysis of published cases of nHLH.

Methods

A comprehensive literature database search was performed. Cases of HLH were eligible for inclusion if clinical analysis was performed at age ≤30 days. Up to 70 variables were extracted from each case.

Results

A total of 544 studies were assessed for eligibility, and 205 cases of nHLH from 142 articles were included. The median age of symptom onset was day of life 3 (interquartile range [IQR]: 0–11, n = 141). Median age at diagnosis was day of life 15 (IQR: 6–27, n = 87). Causes of HLH included familial HLH (48%, n = 99/205), infection (26%, n = 53/205), unknown (17%, n = 35/205), macrophage activation syndrome/rheumatologic (2.9%, n = 4/205), primary immune deficiency (2.0%, n = 5/205), inborn errors of metabolism (2.4%, n = 5/205), and malignancy (2.0%, n = 4/205). Fever was absent in 19% (n = 28/147) of all neonates and 39% (n = 15/38) of preterm neonates. Bicytopenia was absent in 26% (n = 47/183) of patients. Central nervous system (CNS) manifestations were reported in 63% of cases (n = 64/102). Liver injury (68%, n = 91/134) and/or liver failure (24%, n = 32/134) were common. Flow cytometry was performed in 22% (n = 45/205) of cases. Many patients (63%, n = 121/193) died within the period of reporting. Discernable values for HLH diagnostic criteria were reported between 30% and 83% of the time.

Conclusions

Evaluation of nHLH requires rapid testing for a wide range of differential diagnoses. HLH diagnostic criteria such as fever and bicytopenia may not occur as frequently in the neonatal population as in older pediatric populations. Neurologic and hepatic manifestations frequently occur in the neonatal population. Current reports of nHLH suggest a high mortality rate. Future publications containing data on nHLH should improve reporting quality by reporting all clinically relevant data.
Hydrophobicity and mechanical properties of purified lignin nanoparticles reinforced marine‐derived biopolymer composites
Authors: Alfatah Tata , Surya Indra , H.P.S. Abdul Khalil , Manoharadas Salim , Jaber Mohamed , Abdullah C.K. , Mistar Eka Marya , F.A.T. Owolabi , Yahya Esam Bashir
Published: February 2024

Lignin has been considered the main aromatic renewable biopolymer. Besides its availability in large quantities as a major and low‐cost side product of several industries as a polysaccharide component of lignocellulosic biomass for industrial applications, it remains underutilized and as such, lignin valorization is highly desirable. This study was focused on the fabrication, purification, and characterization of lignin nanoparticles (LNPs) from black liquor of oil palm (Elaeis guineensis) empty fruit bunch (EFB). The functional properties of the LNPs investigated include the morphology, particle size, zeta potential distribution, elemental composition, functional groups, and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS). The purified LNPs provided smaller particle sizes ranging from 32 to 62 nm while the unpurified sample sizes range between 53 and 88 nm. The zeta potential value of purified LNPs displays relatively good stability to the unpurified LNPs despite the consistency in their particle size spreading as observed from the TEM micrograph. The results of the GC–MS analysis signify that the purification procedure affects the compounds in the LNPs. The kappa‐carrageenan (KC) biopolymers reinforced with purified LNPs provided more organized surfaces than the biopolymers reinforced with unpurified LNPs, leading to enhanced hydrophobicity and mechanical properties of the bionanocomposites. This study shows the potential applications of valorized lignin from oil palm residue as a reinforcement agent in renewable packaging.

Highlights

Lignin nanoparticles (LNPs) were yielded from empty fruit bunch black liquor.

Syringyl to guaiacyl ratio of LNPs was increased from 0.83 to 1.26.

Biopolymers were prepared by incorporating LNPs into the kappa‐carrageenan.

Biopolymer with 4% purified LNPs had an optimum contact angle of 106.83°.

The optimized biopolymer showed an optimum tensile strength of 38.42 MPa.
Modeling of contact mechanics and defects investigation in automated fiber placement
Authors: Miao Lei , Zhu Weidong , Guo Yingjie , Zhao Shubin , Ke Yinglin
Published: February 2024

The layup quality of prepreg fibers onto complex surfaces is the most concerned issue in automated fiber placement (AFP), which is intimately related to the contact stress in tractive rolling contact. An analytical model of tractive rolling contact is proposed in this paper to clarify the defects mechanism during the AFP process, which considers the mold curvatures, mechanical properties of contacted objects, and pose information to make it suitable for irregular surfaces and arbitrary conditions. Classical Hertz theory in this model is expanded to 3D contact area, and multi‐scale deformations are united in the accurate calculation of contact stress under geometric constraints. Based on the model, the phenomena of adhesion, microslip, and the transition between them in AFP are systematically analyzed. For engineering applications, a discrete processing strategy is proposed to quickly obtain the local curvatures of the mold. Additionally, an algorithm is designed to calculate the contact stress of any path. Experimental results on an aircraft component demonstrate the accuracy of the proposed model in restoring the contact stress distribution during AFP. In conjunction with specific layup information, this model exhibits utility in forecasting laying defects and parameter optimization.

Highlights

An analytical modeling approach based on Hertz theory is proposed to calculate the contact stress in automated fiber placement.

A model‐based algorithm is designed and combined with the proposed discrete scheme to quickly restore the contact stress distribution.

Contact states related to stress are systematically investigated and defects analysis based on computational mechanics results is illustrated.
Integrating response surface methodology and machine learning for analyzing the unconventional machining properties of hybrid fiber‐reinforced composites
Authors: Vinoth V. , Sathiyamurthy S. , Saravanakumar S. , Senthilkumar R.
Published: February 2024

The aim of this investigation was to delve into the impact of abrasive water jet machining (AWJM) process variables on the surface roughness (Ra) and kerf angle (Ka) of hybrid fiber‐reinforced polyester composites. Utilizing both response surface methodology (RSM) and artificial neural network (ANN) prediction models, the study sought to optimize the input parameters for abrasive water jet machining, specifically in the context of paddy straw and PALF‐reinforced polyester hybrid composites. The process parameters targeted for optimization included the abrasive flow rate, traverse rate, and standoff distance during AWJM. The investigation identified an optimal combination of AWJM parameters that effectively meets the practical requirements for machining hybrid fiber‐reinforced polyester composites. According to the RSM, the suggested optimal values for the process parameters are an abrasive flow rate set at 300 g/min, traverse speed at 110 mm/min, and standoff distance at 1 mm. The ANN exhibited robust predictive capabilities, achieving high R2 scores of 0.932 and 0.962 for surface roughness and kerf angle, respectively. To enhance the performance of abrasive water jet machining and minimize surface roughness and kerf angle, the researchers conducted an optimization of the process parameters. Subsequently, confirmation experiments were executed to validate the predictive model and fine‐tune the set of process parameters for practical application.

Highlights

Investigated AWJM impact on Ra value and kerf angle of hybrid composites.

Used RSM and ANN models for parameter optimization in biocomposite.

Optimal AWJM parameters: AFR (300 g/min), TS (110 mm/min), and SOD (1 mm).

ANN showed strong predictions: R2 scores 0.932 (Ra) and 0.962 (Ka).

Confirmation experiments validated the predictive model for applications.
Another way to measure balanced time perspective: Development and validation of the Time Perspective Inventory
Authors: Li Xiaobao , Lyu Houchao , Mello Zena R.
Published: February 2024

The existing scales for measuring balanced time perspective (BTP) have limitations, such as poor‐fitting structures or a complex calculation method. Based on previous studies, we conceptualize BTP as an individual's overall positive outlook on the past and future and mindfully living in the present. The present study aimed to develop the Time Perspective Inventory (TPI) for Chinese adults, determine its psychometric properties, and examine a simple calculation method for generating a score to represent BTP. In study 1, a 7‐factor structure of TPI – Past Positive, Past Negative, Mindful Present, Present Hedonistic, Present Excessively Task‐oriented, Future Positive, and Future Negative – was established through exploratory (sample 1, N = 529) and confirmatory (sample 2, N = 577) factor analyses. Findings supported the internal consistency, test–retest reliability, and criterion‐related validity of the TPI. We proposed using the score difference between positive time perspectives and negative time perspectives to calculate the BTP. Findings showed that the correlations between BTP and subjective well‐being indicators and anxiety were higher than among individual dimensions of TPI. Study 2 (sample 3, N = 713) compared the effects of the TPI and the Chinese version of the Zimbardo Time Perspective Inventory (ZTPI‐C) on well‐being indicators and anxiety. Results indicated that the variance of life satisfaction, positive affect, negative affect, and anxiety explained by BTP measured with TPI was higher than deviation from BTP (DBTP) measured with ZTPI‐C. Together, the TPI yields reliable and valid BTP scores among Chinese adults.
The effect of working memory load on selective attention to emotional faces for social anxiety individuals
Authors: Liu Mingfan , Cheng Chen , Xu Yating , Zeng Lirong
Published: February 2024

Research has confirmed that individuals with social anxiety (SA) show an attentional bias towards threat‐related stimuli. However, the extent to which this attentional bias depends on top‐down cognitive control processes remains controversial. The present study investigated the effect of working memory (WM) load on selective attention to emotional faces in both high social anxiety (HSA) and low social anxiety (LSA) groups by manipulating WM load through the inclusion of forward counting in multiples of two (low load) or backward counting in multiples of seven (high load) within a modified flanker task. In the flanker task, emotional faces (angry, happy, or neutral faces) were used as targets and distractors. A total of 70 participants (34 HSA participants; 36 LSA participants) completed the flanker task in the laboratory. The results showed that the HSA individuals performed worse when responding to angry targets. Relative to LSA individuals, HSA individuals showed interference from angry distractors in the flanker task, resulting in significantly lower accuracy in identifying angry targets compared to happy targets. These results were unaffected by the manipulation of WM load. The findings imply HSA individuals have impaired attentional control, and that their threat‐related attentional bias relies more on the bottom‐up automatic attentional process.
Oral delivery of the amylin receptor agonist pramlintide
Authors: Sinézia Celimar , Sisnande Tháyna , Icart Luis Peña , Lima Luís Maurício T. R.
Published: February 2024

Amylin receptor agonism safely benefit diabetic patients, reducing the insulin requirements and glycemic excursions. Pramlintide is the triple proline human amylin analogue first used as injectable drug, but lacking physico‐chemical compatibility when co‐formulated with insulin. Here, we report the design and characterization of polymeric microparticles for oral delivery of pramlintide. Eudragit S100, a gastric‐resistant polymer, was used in preparation of pramlintide‐loaded spherical microcapsules by double emulsion and solvent evaporation technique, with approximately 66 μm ± 11 particle size, with 83.2% ± 2.7 efficiency for pramlintide entrapment and 67.6% ± 2.1 yield. Intra‐venous pramlintide free in solution showed a plasmatic half‐life of 6.8 min in mice. In contrast, oral delivery of acid‐resistant pramlintide‐loaded microparticles in mice showed a protracted release for 120 min compared to 30 min obtained for pramlintide in solution. Our data provide evidences for the potential use of the oral route in the therapeutic development of pramlintide formulations.
When we go to ask for help, they don't understand how to help us: Understanding how youth with childhood histories of conduct problems link sexuality and gender to school‐based service use
Authors: Chilliak Shayla , Martin‐Storey Alexa , Déry Michèle , Temcheff Caroline Elizabeth , Lapalme Mélanie
Published: February 2024

Gender and, to a lesser extent, sexual identity, are relevant factors in understanding variance in the prevalence, consequences, and treatment of conduct problems. The current study uses thematic analysis to explore how youth with early‐onset conduct problems and extensive histories of school‐based service use perceive gender and sexuality as impacting their service use experiences. Qualitative analysis of interviews with 41 youth (17–21 years old; 53.7% women) yielded themes pertaining to gender, sexual identity, and discrimination in service use contexts. Identified themes included homophobia in service use and adjacent school contexts, stereotypes around masculinity and femininity as conditioning peer and school staff's behavior, and salience of sexuality across developmental stages and historical timeframes. Results suggest that increased school staff training and school‐based interventions be implemented to support gender and sexual diversity, both within services for conduct problems and more broadly in school contexts. In particular, the current findings highlight homophobia as a factor limiting boys' access to mental health services.
Vulcanization of polypropylene
Authors: Houghton‐Flory Callum , Saed Mohand O. , Terentjev Eugene M.
Published: February 2024

Dynamic covalent crosslinking of commodity thermoplastics is a desirable target in material development, as it promises to combine the enhanced mechanical properties and thermal/solvent stability of thermosets with reprocessability and plastic flow under certain conditions activating the bond exchange. Many attempts of this development suffer from the same two problems: enhanced cost due to complex and often toxic chemicals, and the effective melt‐flow index being too low for practical use. Here we return to the origins of polymer networks, and mimic the vulcanization of natural rubber in the commodity polypropylene using elemental sulfur initiated by peroxide. Forming sulfur bridges allows easy catalyst‐free reprocessability based on the disulfide bond exchange. We study a broad range of compositions and reaction conditions, finding optimal balance between the crosslinking and chain scission in the melt compounder, and demonstrating much enhanced characteristics of the resulting materials. We specifically discuss and evaluate the balance between the rubber‐elastic network response at high temperatures and the plastic flow enabled by disulfide exchange, responsible for the reprocessing of our vitrimers.
Polymer donors based on alkyloxime‐substituted thiophene and 6‐undecylthiopheno[3,2‐b]thiophene for efficient organic solar cells
Authors: Hu Li , Wang Lei , Ye Linglong , Zhao Bin , Tan Songting
Published: February 2024

Two new copolymers (named PTO‐BO and PTO‐HD) with alkyloxime‐substituted thiophene (TO) as acceptor unit and 6‐undecylthiopheno[3,2‐b]thiophene spacer as π‐bridge were synthesized and applied in organic solar cells (OSCs) as electron donors. PTO‐HD with 2‐hexyldecyl side chains on TO moiety possesses more suitable phase separation, more efficient exciton dissociation and charge transportation, and less charge recombination than PTO‐BO with 2‐butyloctyloxime‐substituted thiophene in OSCs with Y6 as the acceptor. As a result, the OSCs based on PTO‐HD:Y6 achieved an optimal power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 13.89% with a Voc of 0.799 V, a Jsc of 22.74 mA cm−2, and a FF of 67.67% without additives, which is higher than that (12.29%) of PTO‐BO:Y6 OSCs.
Effect of sublethal concentrations of the bioinsecticide spinosyn treatment of Trichoplusia ni eggs on the caterpillar and its parasitoid, Trichogramma brassicae
Authors: Smith Ryan J , Chen Yinting , Lafleur Christine Isabelle , Kaur Diljot , Bede Jacqueline C
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) seeks to combine multiple management strategies for optimal pest control. One method that is successfully employed in IPM is the use of beneficial organisms. However, in severe circumstances when pest insects exceed threshold limits, insecticides may still need to be implemented. Thus, understanding the effects of insecticides on biocontrol agents, such as parasitoid wasps, is paramount to ensure sustainable agroecosystems. Sublethal effects of the bioinsecticide spinosyn, a mixture of the bacterial Saccharopolyspora spinosa (Mertz and Yao) fermentation products spinosyn A and D, on eggs of Trichoplusia ni (Hübner), a cruciferous crop pest, and its egg parasitoid Trichogramma brassicae (Bezdenko) was investigated.

RESULTS

The LC50 for spinosyn A and D (dissolved in ethanol) on T. ni eggs is 54 ng mL−1. Transcriptomics on caterpillars (1st and 3rd instars) that hatched from eggs treated with sublethal concentrations of spinosyn identified the upregulation of several genes encoding proteins that may be involved in insecticide resistance including detoxification enzymes, such as cytochrome P450s, glutathione S‐transferases and esterases. Sublethal T. ni egg treatments did not affect parasitoid emergence, however, there was a marked increase in the size of T. brassicae hind tibia and wings that emerged from spinosyn‐treated eggs.

CONCLUSIONS

For the caterpillar, treatment of eggs with sublethal concentrations of spinosyn may induce insecticide resistance mechanisms. For the parasitoids, their increased size when reared in spinosyn‐treated eggs suggests that the emerged wasps may have higher performance. © 2024 The Authors. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
High‐Temperature Annealing of Si‐Doped AlGaN
Authors: Zainal Norzaini , Hagedorn Sylvia , Netzel Carsten , Kolbe Tim , Weyers Markus
Published: February 2024

This study explores the impact of Si doping on the material properties of high‐temperature annealed (HTA) Al0.71Ga0.29N layers, which are grown on AlN/sapphire templates. The AlGaN layers are doped with Si by applying different IV/III ratios during epitaxial growth and compared to undoped Al0.71Ga0.29N. Before HTA, the threading dislocation density (TDD) for all samples is about 6.0 × 109 cm−2. After HTA, the Si‐doped AlGaN grown with the highest IV/III ratio of 3.6 × 104shows the lowest TDD of 1.2 × 109 cm−2. Secondary ion mass spectrometry depth profiles reveal an accelerated Ga diffusion from the doped AlGaN into the AlN buffer layer compared to undoped AlGaN. This suggests that the Ga diffusion process is mediated by Si diffusion. Consequently, the Ga diffusion leads to a decrease in the Ga mole fraction of annealed Si‐doped AlGaN. Furthermore, strain relaxation is higher for the Si‐doped AlGaN than for the undoped AlGaN, before and after HTA. The results from this study suggest that Si doping can be a new promising approach in enhancing the quality of HTA‐AlGaN as a useful template for the growth of UV LED heterostructures.
Phosphides‐Based Terahertz Quantum‐Cascade Laser
Authors: Ushakov Dmitrii V. , Afonenko Alexander A. , Khabibullin Rustam A. , Fadeev Mikhail A. , Dubinov Alexander A.
Published: February 2024

Due to their high optical phonon energies GaInP/AlGaInP heterostructures are a promising active medium to solve the problem of creating compact semiconductor sources with an operating frequency range of 5.5–7 THz. In this work, the temperature dependences of gain and absorption at 6.4–6.9 THz have been calculated for a GaInP/AlGaInP‐based quantum‐cascade laser (QCL) with two quantum wells in the cascade and a metal–metal waveguide. The dielectric function and mode losses for a 10 μm thick Au–Au waveguide, based on ternary InGaP and quaternary AlGaInP semiconductors, have been investigated in details. A laser structure that provides a mode gain of over 100 cm−1 with a maximum operating temperature about 100 K is proposed. The results of this study open the way to the development of a QCL for operation in a significant part of the GaAs phonon absorption band region, which is inaccessible for existing QCLs.
Impact of delivery instruments on the environment: A life cycle assessment
Authors: van Zanten Femke , Tensen Sacha , Snijder Lynn , Broeren Martijn , Kwee Anneke
Published: February 2024

Objective

To determine a break‐even point in the carbon footprint of disposable and reusable instrument sets used in the delivery room. This can aid hospitals in making sustainable choices.

Methods

Observational study conducted in a university hospital with an obstetric care centre. The study used life cycle assessment (LCA) to compare a reusable (minimal 500 times use) with a disposable instrumental set (single use). LCA quantifies the environmental impact of products over their entire life cycle. The contribution to climate change (i.e., carbon footprint) was used as the environmental indicator [in kg CO2 equivalent (eq.)]. Primary outcome was to determine a ‘break‐even point’: the number of uses at which the carbon footprint of the two sets was similar. Secondary outcomes: (1) ‘worst case scenario’, in which both sets are only used once; (2) ‘scenario of 500 deliveries’ and (3) annual carbon footprint reduction when switching to the set with the lowest environmental impact.

Results

After ≥3 times use, the carbon footprint of the reusable set becomes lower than the disposable set. When both sets are used only once, the reusable set had a higher impact on the environment (1.2 kg CO2 eq. difference). In case of using both sets during 500 deliveries, the difference in kg CO2 eq. was 400 kg CO2 eq., corresponding with a 2.3 times lower environmental impact in favour of the reusable set and a reduction of about 1800 kg CO2 eq. per year.

Conclusions

Disposable instrumental sets used in the delivery room have a higher impact on the environment compared to reusable sets.
Respectful maternity care at caesarean delivery: Experiences of mothers in a primary referral hospital in Ghana
Authors: Tettey‐Mensah Samuel , Ameme Donne K. , Asamoah Yaw K. , Asah‐Opoku Kwaku
Published: February 2024

Background

Respectful, dignified care is a human right for all women that impacts skilled birth attendance and outcomes. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of respectful maternity care (RMC) provided at caesarean deliveries in a Ghanaian referral hospital and determine associated factors influencing care provision. We sought to elucidate RMC prevalence and drivers specific to the caesarean experience, to promote rights‐based, patient‐centred caesarean delivery care.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was conducted from June to November 2022, among women who delivered via caesarean section at the hospital. Interviews of participants were conducted using structured questionnaires, capturing respondents' sociodemographic and obstetric features and perceptions of RMC. Quantitative data were summarised using means, medians, frequencies and proportions. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression models were employed to determine factors associated with RMC at 95% confidence interval (CI) and a p < 0.05.

Results

A total of 308 women were included in the study. The mean age of mothers was 29.9 (±6.8) years. Of the mothers, 67.9% (95% CI: 62.3, 73.0) received RMC and 32.1% reported disrespectful and abusive care. Several factors were associated with higher likelihood of receiving RMC at caesarean delivery, including being married, adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 2.45 (95% CI: 1.17, 5.12), having average monthly income between Ghana cedis 501 and 1500, aOR = 1.94 (95% CI: 1.07, 3.50), having a previous delivery history of spontaneous vaginal delivery only, aOR 2.04 (95% CI: 1.02, 4.08) and receiving anaesthesia from a male anaesthetist, aOR 2.04 (95% CI: 1.22, 3.42).

Conclusion

Though the majority of women at caesarean delivery received RMC, close to one‐third may attribute a negative caesarean birth experience to disrespectful care. Respectful and abusive‐free care at service delivery should thus be emphasised for healthcare givers and form part of antenatal education.
Conductive Robust Interfaces with Fluoro‐Borate Based Electrolyte Additive for 4.6 V Well‐Cycled LiNi0.90Co0.06Mn0.04O2||Li Batteries
Authors: Wu Min , Zhao Hongshun , Zhou Bo , Ding Zhengping , Liang Kang , Wei Peng , Qin Shaopan , Li Jianbin , Huang Xiaobing , Zhang Zhi , Ma Jianmin , Ren Yurong
Published: February 2024

Owing to the outstanding comprehensive properties of high energy density, excellent cycling ability, and reasonable cost, Ni‐rich layered oxides (NCM) are the most promising cathode for lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs). To further enhance the specific capacity of Ni‐rich layered oxides, it is necessary to increase the cut‐off voltage to a higher level. However, a higher cut‐off voltage can lead to substantial structural changes and trigger interface side reactions, presenting significant challenges for practical applications (cycle life and safety). Herein, to solve above issues, tris(hexafluoroisopropyl)borate (TFPB) is introduced as a high voltage electrolyte additive for LiNi0.90Co0.06Mn0.04O2 cathode. Based on detail in situ/ex situ characterization, this study proves that TFPB forms a protective solid‐state interphase (SEI) layer on the Li‐anode. Additionally, derivatives of TFPB are easily oxidatively decomposed to create a dense cathode electrolyte interphase (CEI) film on the cathode. This CEI film effectively prevents the continuous oxidation of the electrolyte and mitigates the adverse effects of HF on the battery. Benefit from the protective SEI and CEI layer, the LiNi0.90Co0.06Mn0.04O2||Li battery with a TFPB‐containing electrolyte maintains an unprecedented level of performance, with a capacity retention of 89.1% after 100 cycles under the ultrahigh cut‐off voltage of 4.6 V (vs Li/Li+).
Electrolytic Hydrogen Release from Hydrogen Boride Sheets
Authors: Kawamura Satoshi , Yamaguchi Akira , Miyazaki Keisuke , Ito Shin‐ichi , Watanabe Norinobu , Hamada Ikutaro , Kondo Takahiro , Miyauchi Masahiro
Published: February 2024

Solid‐state hydrogen storage materials are safe and lightweight hydrogen carriers. Among the various solid‐state hydrogen carriers, hydrogen boride (HB) sheets possess a high gravimetric hydrogen capacity (8.5 wt%). However, heating at high temperatures and/or strong ultraviolet illumination is required to release hydrogen (H2) from HB sheets. In this study, the electrochemical H2 release from HB sheets using a dispersion system in an organic solvent without other proton sources is investigated. H2 molecules are released from the HB sheets under the application of a cathodic potential. The Faradaic efficiency for H2 release from HB sheets reached >90%, and the onset potential for H2 release is −0.445 V versus Ag/Ag+, which is more positive than those from other proton sources, such as water or formic acid, under the same electrochemical conditions. The total electrochemically released H2 in a long‐time experiment reached ≈100% of the hydrogen capacity of HB sheets. The H2 release from HB sheets is driven by a small bias; thus, they can be applied as safe and lightweight hydrogen carriers with economical hydrogen release properties.