bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A qualitative study of factors influencing ePHR adoption by caregivers and care providers of Alzheimer's patients: An extension of the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology model
Authors: Amiri Parastoo , Pirnejad Habibollah , Bahaadinbeigy Kambiz , Baghini Mahdie Shojaei , Khazaee Parviz Rashidi , Niazkhani Zahra
Published: July 2023

Background and Aims

As the nowadays provision of many healthcare services relies on technology, a better understanding of the factors contributing to the acceptance and use of technology in health care is essential. For Alzheimer's patients, an electronic personal health record (ePHR) is one such technology. Stakeholders should understand the factors affecting the adoption of this technology for its smooth implementation, adoption, and sustainable use. So far, these factors have not fully been understood for Alzheimer's disease (AD)‐specific ePHR. Therefore, the present study aimed to understand these factors in ePHR adoption based on the perceptions and views of care providers and caregivers involved in AD care.

Methods

This qualitative study was conducted from February 2020 to August 2021 in Kerman, Iran. Seven neurologists and 13 caregivers involved in AD care were interviewed using semi‐structured and in‐depth interviews. All interviews were conducted through phone contacts amid Covid‐19 imposed restrictions, recorded, and transcribed verbatim. The transcripts were coded using thematic analysis based on the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT) model. ATLAS.ti8 was used for data analysis.

Results

The factors affecting ePHR adoption in our study comprised subthemes under the five main themes of performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence, facilitating conditions of the UTAUT model, and the participants' sociodemographic factors. From the 37 facilitating factors and 13 barriers identified for ePHR adoption, in general, the participants had positive attitudes toward the ease of use of this system. The stated obstacles were dependent on the participants' sociodemographic factors (such as age and level of education) and social influence (including concern about confidentiality and privacy). In general, the participants considered ePHRs efficient and useful in increasing neurologists' information about their patients and managing their symptoms in order to provide better and timely treatment.

Conclusion

The present study gives a comprehensive insight into the acceptance of ePHR for AD in a developing setting. The results of this study can be utilized for similar healthcare settings with regard to technical, legal, or cultural characteristics. To develop a useful and user‐friendly system, ePHR developers should involve users in the design process to take into account the functions and features that match their skills, requirements, and preferences.
Cognitive flexibility and emotional self‐regulation of the elderly with Empty nest syndrome: Benefits of acceptance and commitment therapy
Authors: Mahmoudpour Abdolbaset , Ferdousi Kejani Kimia , Karami Mina , Toosi Maryam , Ahmadboukani Soliman
Published: July 2023

Background and Aims

Empty nest syndrome (ENS) is a mental condition that affects both parents. When children leave their parents' home, the parents experience such feelings as unhappiness, loss, fear, inability, difficulty in adjusting roles, and changing their relationships. The present study aimed to evaluate the cognitive flexibility and emotional self‐regulation of the elderly with ENS: benefits of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).

Methods

The research method was quasi‐experimental where a pretest‐posttest design was used with a control group. The statistical population included all the elderly with the ENS in Tehran in the academic year of 2019–2020. Thirty of them were selected by convenience sampling method and then stochastically placed in two experimental and control groups. Dennis and VanderWal's Cognitive Flexibility Inventory, and Hofmann and Kashdan's Emotional Self‐Regulatory Questionnaire for data collection in the pretest and posttest phases. Group‐based ACT was implemented on experimental group members in 8 sessions of 90 min, while controls received no intervention. The collected data were analyzed by SPSS version 25 and analysis of covariance.

Results

The results showed a significant difference between the posttest scores of the experimental and control groups so the group‐based ACT increased the cognitive flexibility and emotional self‐regulation of the experimental group members (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

According to our results, therapists and health professionals can use ACT for interventions related to the health of the elderly with ENS, especially to improve cognitive flexibility and emotional self‐regulation.
Bonding Analysis of the Ge‐Ge Bonds in the Octagermacubane Ge8(Sit‐butyl2methyl)6
Authors: Pan Sudip , Frenking Gernot
Published: July 2023

Quantum chemical calculations have been carried out at the BP86/def2‐SVP level on Ge8(Sit‐butyl2methyl)6(1) and the bonding situation has been analyzed with a variety of methods. The calculated equilibrium geometry of1is in good agreement with the reported x‐ray structure analysis. The D3 correction for dispersion interactions as a sum of pairwise attractions leads to an overestimate of the effect of dispersion forces. Calculations at BP86‐D3(BJ)/def2‐SVP give shorter bonds for Ge(I)−Ge(I) than for Ge(0)−Ge(I), which is in contrast to the experimental values and the BP86/def2‐SVP results. The NBO analysis suggests that the best Lewis structure of1has lone‐pair orbitals at the Ge(0) atoms with occupation numbers of 1.70 e. A lone‐pair character at Ge(0) albeit with less weight is also suggested by the shape of the HOMO, which is an antibonding orbital between the Ge(0) atoms with small contributions from the Ge(I) atoms. The LUMO of1is the corresponding bonding combination of the Ge(0) AOs, which can be explained with the reluctance of the heavier main‐group atoms to s/p hybridization of the valence orbitals. The calculated bond order values suggest significant direct Ge(0)−Ge(0) interactions. This is supported by the shape of the HOMO and by the results of EDA‐NOCV calculations. The deformation densities and the orbitals associated with the pairwise orbital interaction show that there is a direct charge flow between the Ge(0) atoms of the two fragments, but it is not completely separated from the Ge(0)−Ge(I) and Ge(I)−Ge(I) bond formation. The QTAIM calculations suggest that1has a cubic structure with a cage critical point but not a bond critical point for the Ge(0)−Ge(0) interactions. The dispersion interactions of the large substituents in1have a significant influence on the stability of the compound.
Recent advances in ultrathin materials and their applications in e‐skin
Authors: Gao Wenchao , Huang Jiaoya , He Jiang , Zhou Runhui , Li Zemin , Chen Ziyu , Zhang Yufei , Pan Caofeng
Published: July 2023

Intelligent technologies based on artificial intelligence and big data hold great potential for health monitoring and human–machine capability enhancement. However, electronics must be connected to the human body to realize this vision. Thus, tissue or skin‐like electronics with high stretchability and low stiffness mechanical properties are highly desirable. Ultrathin materials have attracted significant attention from the research community and the industry because of their high performance and flexibility. Over the past few years, considerable progress has been made in flexible ultrathin sensors and devices based on ultrathin materials. Here, we review the developments in this area and examine representative research progress in ultrathin materials fabrication and device construction. Strategies for the fabrication of stretchable ultrathin materials and devices are considered. The relationship between the thin‐film structure and performance is emphasized and highlighted. Finally, the current capabilities and limitations of ultrathin devices were explored.

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Field‐scale measurements of soil physico‐chemical profiles of the Potohar region in the Indus basin of Pakistan
Authors: Malik Manzoor Ahmad , Ashraf Muhammad
Published: July 2023

Soil physico‐chemical properties are important for best management practices. We measured infiltration, bulk density, texture, water retention and chemical profiles from the surface to 1.0 m and lithology to 50 m depths at 30 sites. The infiltration data were fitted to the cumulative and infiltration rate models of Philip and Horton. The same sites were used for water retention, physico‐chemical properties and lithological assessment. The cumulative models fit persistently better than their infiltration rate forms. The Horton cumulative model fitted statistically better than the corresponding Philip model. The dominant steady‐state infiltration rates were 15–30 and 30–45 mm h−1 over the entire profile. Sandy loam, loam and silt loam were the dominant soils. The percentages of sandy loam decreased, whereas silt loam increased, with depth. Water retention parameters and lithological strata were diverse and in harmony with physiography. Soil organic matter varied up to 2.5%. No sodicity or salinity was detected except in sparse saline seeps. The central tendency and extrema of the measured parameters were compatible with the literature, and the CVs of the soil hydraulic parameters were greater than those of the physical parameters. Comprehensive data are presented, which will serve as an important reference for regional and global repositories.
Influences of lysine‐specific demethylase 1 inhibitors on NO synthase–Kruppel‐like factor pathways in human endothelial cells in vitro and zebrafish (Danio rerio) larvae in vivo
Authors: Yuan Jialin , Que Ruiman , Zhao Weichao , Song Fengmei , Cao Yi , Yu Bin
Published: July 2023

Lysine‐specific demethylase 1 (LSD1) inhibitors are being developed for cancer therapy, but their bioeffects on vasculatures are not clear. In this study, we compared the influences of ORY‐1001 (an LSD1 inhibitor being advanced into clinical trials) and 199 (a novel LSD1 inhibitor recently developed by us) to human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) in vitro and further verified the bioeffects of ORY‐1001 to zebrafish (Danio rerio) larvae in vivo. The results showed that up to 10 μM ORY‐1001 or 199 did not significantly affect the cellular viability of HUVECs but substantially reduced the release of inflammatory interleukin‐8 (IL‐8) and IL‐6. The signaling molecule in vasculatures, NO, was also increased in HUVECs. As the mechanism, the protein levels of endothelial NO synthase (eNOS) or p‐eNOS, and their regulators Kruppel‐like factor 2 (KLF2) or KLF4, were also increased after drug treatment. In vivo, 24 h treatment with up to 100 nM ORY‐1001 reduced blood speed without changing morphologies or locomotor activities in zebrafish larvae. ORY‐1001 treatment reduced the expression of il8 but promoted the expression of klf2a and nos in the zebrafish model. These data show that LSD1 inhibitors were not toxic but capable to inhibit inflammatory responses and affect the function of blood vessels through the up‐regulation of the NOS‐KLF pathway.
Autophagy regulation by inorganic, organic, and organic/inorganic hybrid nanoparticles: Organelle damage, regulation factors, and potential pathways
Authors: Qiao Dong , Zhang Ting , Tang Meng
Published: July 2023

The rapid development of nanotechnology requires a more thorough understanding of the potential health effects caused by nanoparticles (NPs). As a programmed cell death, autophagy is one of the biological effects induced by NPs, which maintain intracellular homeostasis by degrading damaged organelles and removing aggregates of defective proteins through lysosomes. Currently, autophagy has been shown to be associated with the development of several diseases. A significant number of research have demonstrated that most NPs can regulate autophagy, and their regulation of autophagy is divided into induction and blockade. Studying the autophagy regulation by NPs will facilitate a more comprehensive understanding of the toxicity of NPs. In this review, we will illustrate the effects of different types of NPs on autophagy, including inorganic NPs, organic NPs, and organic/inorganic hybrid NPs. The potential mechanisms by which NPs regulate autophagy are highlighted, including organelle damage, oxidative stress, inducible factors, and multiple signaling pathways. In addition, we list the factors influencing NPs‐regulated autophagy. This review may provide basic information for the safety assessment of NPs.
Characterizing Associations of QTc Interval with Nocturnal Glycemic Control in Children with Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Gotta Verena , Bachmann Sara , Pfister Marc , Donner Birgit
Published: July 2023

An association between QT prolongation (Bazett's corrected QT interval, QTcB) of 7 milliseconds and nocturnal hypoglycemia, compared with euglycemia, has been observed in children with type 1 diabetes (T1D). The objective of this pharmacometric analysis was to understand this association and other sources of QTc variability quantitatively. Data originate from a prospective observational study (25 cardiac healthy children with T1D, aged 8.1‐17.6 years) with continuous subcutaneous glucose and electrocardiogram measurements for 5 consecutive nights. Mixed‐effect modeling was used to compare QTcB with individual heart‐rate correction (QTcI). Covariate models accounting for circadian variation, age, and sex were evaluated, followed by an investigation of glucose–QTc relationships (with univariable and combined adjusted analysis). Factors potentially modifying sensitivity to QTc lengthening were explored. Random inter‐individual variability was reduced in the QTcI versus QTcB model (±12.6 vs 14.1 milliseconds), and was further reduced in the adjusted covariate model (±9.7 milliseconds), accounting for the significantly (P < .01) shortened QTc in adolescent boys (–14.6 milliseconds), circadian variation (amplitude, 19.2 milliseconds; shift, 2.9 hours), and linear glucose–QTc relationship (delay rate, 0.56−h; slope, 0.76 milliseconds [95%CI 0.67‐ 0.85 milliseconds] per 1 mmol/L decrease in glucose). Differing sensitivity was suggested to depend upon hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), T1D duration, and time spent in nocturnal hypoglycemia. In conclusion, a clinically mild association of QTc prolongation with nocturnal hypoglycemia was confirmed and quantified in this pharmacometric analysis, and the longest QTc interval was around 03:00 a.m. The characterized delayed association with glucose highlights the relevance of both the extent and the duration of hypoglycemia. Further clinical studies are warranted to investigate whether these factors contribute to increased risk of hypoglycemia‐associated cardiac arrhythmia in children with T1D.
Extramedullary hematopoietic pleural effusion in Waldenström's macroglobulinemia
Authors: Ito Kenichi , Harada Kunihiko , Uchino Yoshihito , Hirano Kazuhiko , Sekiguchi Naohiro
Published: July 2023

Extramedullary hematopoietic effusion (EHE) is one of the extremely rare phenomena associated with extramedullary hematopoiesis, which is caused by serous effusions, including pleural effusion, and may be related to hematologic disorders and neoplasms. Herein, we present the case of an 81‐year‐old man with EHE accompanying Waldenström's macroglobulinemia (WM). The patient complained of anemia and dyspnea. The chest X‐ray and computed tomography showed a massive left pleural effusion, and the aspirates revealed infiltration of the immature myeloid cells and megakaryocytes, in addition to the lymphoma cells. To our knowledge, this is the first report of EHE in WM.
Patterns of person‐centred communications in public HIV clinics: a latent class analysis using the Roter interaction analysis system
Authors: Mukamba Njekwa , Mwamba Chanda , Redkar Salil , Foloko Marksman , Lumbo Kasapo , Nyirenda Herbert , Roter Debra L. , Mulabe Musunge , Sharma Anjali , Simbeza Sandra , Sikombe Kombatende , Beres Laura K. , Pry Jake M. , Christopoulos Katerina , Holmes Charles B. , Geng Elvin H. , Sikazwe Izukanji , Bolton‐Moore Carolyn , Mody Aaloke
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Poor client−provider communication is a critical barrier to long‐term retention in care among people living with HIV. However, standardized assessments of this key metric are limited in Africa. We used the Roter Interaction Analysis System (RIAS) to quantitatively characterize patterns of person‐centred communication (PCC) behaviours in Zambia.

Methods

We enrolled pairs of people living with HIV making routine HIV follow‐up visit and their providers at 24 Ministry of Health‐facilities supported by the Centre for Infectious Disease Research in Zambia in Lusaka province between August 2019 and November 2021. Client−provider encounters were audio‐recorded and coded using RIAS by trained research staff. We performed latent class analysis to identify interactions with distinctive patterns of provider PCC behaviours (i.e. rapport building, person‐centred counselling, PCC micropractices [e.g. brief empathy statements], assessing barriers to care, shared decision‐making and leveraging discretionary power) and compared their distribution across client, provider, interaction and facility characteristics.

Results

We enrolled 478 people living with HIV and 139 providers (14% nurses, 73.6% clinical officers, 12.3% were medical officers). We identified four distinct profiles: (1) “Medically Oriented Interaction, Minimal PCC Behaviours” (47.6% of interactions) was characterized by medical discussion, minimal psychosocial/non‐medical talk and low use of PCC behaviours; (2) “Balanced Medical/Non‐medical Interaction, Low PCC Behaviours” (21.0%) was characterized by medical and non‐medical discussion but limited use of other PCC behaviours; (3) “Medically Oriented Interaction, Good PCC Behaviours” (23.9%) was characterized by medically oriented discussion, more information‐giving and increased use of PCC behaviours; and (4) “Highly person‐centred Interaction” (7.5%) was characterized by both balanced medical/non‐medical focus and the highest use of PCC behaviours. Nurse interactions were more likely to be characterized by more PCC behaviours (i.e. Class 3 or 4) (44.8%), followed by medical officers (33.9%) and clinical officers (27.3%) (p = 0.031). Longer interactions were also more likely to integrate more PCC behaviours (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

PCC behaviours are relatively uncommon in HIV care in Zambia, and often limited to brief rapport‐building statements and PCC micropractices. Strengthening PCC, such as shared decision‐making and leveraging discretionary power to better accommodate client needs and preferences, may be an important strategy for improving the quality in HIV treatment programmes.
‘Liars are less detailed’ …So what? Comparing two recall instructions to detect deception within‐subject
Authors: Srour Camille , Py Jacques , Grimaud Chloé , Roche Solène
Published: July 2023

Most deception research provides between‐subject results (e.g., liars give on average less detailed accounts), which might be of limited value for professionals evaluating credibility on an individual basis. This study examines the optimal instructions of a within‐subject multiple recalls strategy to detect deception. A total of 110 participants, divided into a Lie and Truth group, were randomly placed into four interview conditions: two Basic report‐everything instructions (1), a Basic recall followed by an Open depth instruction (2), a Basic recall followed by the Verifiability Approach and Information Protocol (3), and two recalls with the Verifiability Approach and Information Protocol (4). All recalls were coded for total details and verifiable details. Group (lie and truth) × Recall (first and second) was only significant in condition 3, with truth tellers providing more verifiable details in the second recall than the first. A simple within‐subject decision rule was derived, allowing a 76.9% discrimination rate. Professionals can optimally evaluate credibility using two recalls (Basic recall followed by Verifiability Approach and Information Protocol) and observing the evolution of verifiable details.
Editorial for “Weakly Supervised MRI Slice‐Level Deep Learning Classification of Prostate Cancer Approximates Full Voxel‐ and Slice‐Level Annotation: Effect of Increasing Training Set Size”
Authors: Zhuang Jiancheng
Published: July 2023

Level of Evidence

5

Technical Efficacy Stage

1
The causal role of gut microbiota in susceptibility and severity of COVID‐19: A bidirectional Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Chen Han , Ye Bixing , Su Wei , Song Ying , Sun Pei‐Li , Zhou Xiaoying , Zhang Guoxin
Published: July 2023

Growing evidence has shown that altered gut microbiota is associated with the pathogenesis of COVID‐19, but their causal effects are still unclear. We conducted a bidirectional Mendelian randomization (MR) study to assess the causal effects of gut microbiota on COVID‐19 susceptibility or severity, and vice versa. The microbiome genome‐wide association studies (GWAS) data of 18 340 individuals and GWAS statistics from the COVID‐19 host genetics initiative (38 984 European patients and 1 644 784 controls) were used as exposure and outcomes. The inverse variance weighted (IVW) was used as the primary MR analysis. Sensitivity analyses were performed to validate the robustness, pleiotropy, and heterogeneity of results. In the forward MR, we identified several microbial genera with causal effects on COVID‐19 susceptibility (p < 0.05 and FDR < 0.1): Alloprevotella (odds ratio [OR]: 1.088, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.021–1.160), Coprococcus (OR: 1.159, 95% CI: 1.030–1.304), Parasutterella (OR: 0.902, 95% CI: 0.836–0.973), and Ruminococcaceae UCG014 (OR: 0.878, 95% CI: 0.777–0.992). The Reverse MR identified that exposure to COVID‐19 had causal effects on the depletion of the families Lactobacillaceae (Beta [SE]: −0.220 [0.101]) and Lachnospiraceae (−0.129 [0.062]), the genera Flavonifractor (−0.180 [0.081]) and Lachnoclostridium [−0.181 [0.063]). Our findings supported the causal effect of gut microbiota on the pathogenesis of COVID‐19, and infection of COVID‐19 might further causally induce gut microbiota dysbiosis.
Degradation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in smoked sausages by ultraviolet irradiation
Authors: Lu Jingnan , Kong Ling , Fang Hongmei , Cai Kezhou , Zhou Hui , Xu Baocai
Published: July 2023

Background

Ultraviolet (UV) irradiation has been widely employed to disinfect food, however, the efficacy of UV irradiation in degrading polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in smoked sausages has not been explored. In this article, the UV degradation ability of PAHs in smoked sausages was investigated with different UV irradiation conditions, including different irradiation powers, durations and wavelengths. The effects of UV radiation on the quality of sausages were also evaluated, and potential degradation mechanisms were elucidated.

Results

The results showed that the irradiation duration was the primary determinant of PAHs degradation, achieving 84.4% and 84.2% degradation rates at 16 W and 32 W power for 30 min, respectively. Among the three UV wavelengths assessed, 254 nm demonstrated a significantly higher degradation rate for benzo[a]pyrene (BaP), PAH4 and PAHs compared to 365 nm and 310 nm. To further explore the degradation mechanism, UV irradiation was combined with water, 0.1 mol/L hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and 0.1 mol/L ascorbic acid (vitamin C) coatings. The 0.1 mol/L H2O2 coating exhibited the most pronounced degradation effect, suggesting that the highly reactive oxygen hydroxyl radicals (·OH) generated by UV irradiation played a critical role in initiating redox reactions.

Conclusion

This systematic investigation paves the way for developing novel strategies to eliminate PAHs or other organic contaminants from smoked sausages. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Using nanocellulose to improve heat‐induced cull cow meat myofibrillar protein gels: effects of particle morphology and content
Authors: Shen Ruixi , Tian Xiaojing , Yang Qinghua , Zhang Kai , Zhang Huan , Wang Xinhua , Bai Lei , Wang Wenhang
Published: July 2023

Background

Enhancing protein gel properties is essential to improve the texture of meat products. In this study, the improvement effects of three types of nanocellulose, i.e. rod‐like cellulose nanocrystals (CNC), long‐chain cellulose nanofibers (CNF) and spherical cellulose nanospheres (CNS) with different concentrations (1, 3, 5, 10, 15 and 20 g kg−1), on cull cow meat myofibrillar protein (MP) gel were investigated.

Results

Compared with needle‐shaped CNC and spherical CNS, the addition of 10 and 20 g kg−1 long‐chain CNF had the most significant improvement effect on gel hardness and water‐holding capacity, respectively (P < 0.05), increasing to 160.1 g and 97.8%, respectively. In addition, the incorporation of long‐chain CNF shortened the T2 relaxation time and induced the formation of the densest network structure and promoted the phase transition of the gel. However, excessive filling of nanocellulose would destroy the structure of the gel, which was not conducive to the improvement of gel properties. Fourier transform infrared results showed that there was no chemical reaction between the three nanocellulose types and MP, but the addition of nanocellulose was conducive to gel formation.

Conclusion

The improvement of MP gel properties by adding nanocellulose mainly depends on its morphology and concentration. Nanocellulose with higher aspect ratio is more beneficial to the improvement of gel properties. For each nanocellulose type, there is an optimal addition amount for MP gel improvement. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Temperature‐induced dispersive solid‐phase extraction as a new approach for preconcentration of Sudan dyes in water and food samples prior to the determination by high‐performance liquid chromatography
Authors: Jamali Mohammad Reza , Tavakoli Maedeh , Nezhadali Azizollah
Published: July 2023

This study introduced a new microextraction method named temperature‐induced dispersive solid‐phase extraction. The performance of the method was demonstrated with the determination of Sudan dyes in food and natural water samples. In this method, a low quantity of sorbent was added to the aqueous solution and the mixture was shaken manually for about one minute. Then, the solution was heated in an ultrasonic water bath, and the sorbent was dissolved. Subsequently, the solution was cooled down with ice water, and consequently, the solubility of the sorbent was reduced in the sample solution and became cloudy. The phase separation was accelerated by centrifugation. The upper liquid phase was picked up using a syringe, and the remainder was solved in methanol and introduced into the HPLC for analysis. Various parameters affecting the extraction yield were evaluated. Analytical parameters, including limits of detection (0.011–0.016 μg/L) and quantification (0.038–0.055 μg/L), relative standard deviations (2.3%–3.1%), and preconcentration factor (40) proved the high efficiency of the developed method for the analysis of Sudan dyes. The proposed method was used to measure Sudan dyes in water and food samples and showed good extraction recoveries (95.0%–103.5%).
Serum HSF1 is upregulated in endometriosis patients and serves as a potential diagnostic biomarker
Authors: Pan Hui‐Ying , Wan Jing
Published: July 2023

Endometriosis (EMS) is a prevalent gynecological condition lacking reliable diagnostic biomarkers. This prospective study aimed to analyze the potential of serum heat shock transcription factor 1 (HSF1) as a diagnostic marker for EMS. Clinical features of 92 EMS patients and 52 controls were recorded, revealing significant differences in dysmenorrhea, dyspareunia, pelvic pain, nulliparity, and CA125 levels. Serum HSF1 was upregulated in EMS patients, with higher levels in American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) III/IV than ASRM I/II. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis demonstrated good diagnostic function for serum HSF1 (AUC: 0.857, sensitivity: 91.30%, specificity: 63.46%). Serum HSF1, dysmenorrhea, dyspareunia, and nulliparity were independent risk factors for EMS, while dysmenorrhea and serum HSF1 were independent risk factors for EMS severity. Additionally, the GSE25628 dataset was downloaded from the GEO database for differential analysis of gene expression. The HSF1 downstream target genes PTGES3, HSP90AA1, and HSPB1 showed significant differential expression in EMS, suggesting their involvement in the regulatory mechanism of HSF1 in EMS.
Toward classification of codimension 1 foliations on threefolds of general type
Authors: Golota Aleksei
Published: July 2023

The aim of this paper is to classify codimension 1 foliations with canonical singularities and on threefolds of general type. I prove a classification result for foliations satisfying these conditions and having nontrivial algebraic part. We also describe purely transcendental foliations with the canonical class being not big on manifolds of general type in any dimension, assuming that is nonsingular in codimension 2.
Exact decay rates for weakly coupled systems with indirect damping by fractional memory effects
Authors: Oliveira Rafael Lima , Oquendo Higidio Portillo , Buriol Celene
Published: July 2023

This paper deals with the asymptotic behavior of a weakly coupled system of two equations in which one of them has a dissipative mechanism given by a memory term. This term depends on the fractional operator with exponent . We show that strong solutions of the system decay polynomially with a rate that depends on both the exponent θ and wave propagation speeds. Optimal decay rates are found and the results show a surprising aspect: More regular damping does not necessarily imply a faster decay.
On composition operators between weighted (LF)‐ and (PLB)‐spaces of continuous functions
Authors: Albanese Angela A. , Mele Claudio
Published: July 2023

Let X be a locally compact Hausdorff topological space, let be a system of positive continuous functions on X and let φ be a continuous self‐map on X. The composition operators on the weighted function (LF)‐spaces (, resp.) and on the weighted function (PLB)‐spaces (, resp.) are studied. We characterize when the operator acts continuously on such spaces in terms of the system and the map φ, as well as we determine conditions on and φ which correspond to various basic properties of the composition operator , like boundedness, compactness, and weak compactness. Our approach requires a study of the continuity, boundedness, (weak) compactness of the linear operators between (LF)‐spaces and (PLB)‐spaces.
On the noncollapsedness of positively curved Type I ancient Ricci flows
Authors: Cheng Liang , Zhang Yongjia
Published: July 2023

In this paper, we study complete Type I ancient Ricci flows with positive sectional curvature. Our main results are as follows: in the complete and noncompact case, all such ancient solutions must be noncollapsed on all scales; in the closed case, if the dimension is even, then all such ancient solutions must be noncollapsed on all scales. This furthermore gives a complete classification for three‐dimensional noncompact Type I ancient solutions without assuming the noncollapsing condition.
Three‐step iterative weight function scheme with memory for solving nonlinear problems
Authors: Cordero Alicia , Garrido Neus , Torregrosa Juan R. , Triguero‐Navarro Paula
Published: July 2023

In this manuscript, we present a parametric family of derivative‐free three‐step iterative methods with a weight function for solving nonlinear equations. We study various ways of introducing memory to this parametric family in order to increase the order of convergence without new functional evaluations. We also performed numerical experiments to compare the iterative methods from different points of view.
Development of biodegradable and low‐cost electromagnetic shielding composite by waste porous biochar and poly (butylene succinate)
Authors: Wang Hao , Xu Runmin , Dong Lujie , Zhang Xi , Tu Daowu , Wu Liangkui , Wu Zicheng , Chen Yuxia , Guo Yong
Published: July 2023

Pinecone is a lignocellulosic forest waste that has industrial value‐added importance in energy and material production. To deepen the functional utilization of agricultural and forestry waste, exploration of materials for high‐performance electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding prevents pollution from electromagnetic radiations. Herein, low cost, environment‐friendly, and efficient electromagnetic wave absorbing composites were obtained by simple and effective method using agricultural and forestry waste pinecone biochar (PB) as the carbon source and poly (butylene succinate) (PBS) as a biodegradable thermoplastic matrix. The effect of biochar content, biochar chemical and physical modification on properties of composite, especially electrical conductivity and EMI shielding performance have been investigated. Results showed that the electromagnetic shielding property of the material increased with an increase in biochar content, and the value was 54.51 dB when the pine cone charcoal content was 55%. Furthermore, these composites also showed improved thermal stability and adequate mechanical strength. Compared to untreated biochar and add coupling agents, the pickling treatment of biochar was a more effective way to enhance the EMI shielding (to 41.23%) and other properties of the composite. Furthermore, the experimental results show that it is possible to produce fully biodegradable functional polymer composites from agricultural waste.
Prenatal diagnosis of CLCN4‐related neurodevelopmental disorder in fetuses with congenital brain anomalies
Authors: Lam Zena , Wall Elizabeth , Ryan Gavin , Barber Richard , Kilby Mark D. , Williams Denise K.
Published: July 2023

We report two male fetuses born to a healthy unrelated couple, with agenesis of the corpus callosum identified on detailed 20‐week ultrasound scans and confirmed by in‐utero MRI. Whole‐genome sequencing identified a likely pathogenic missense variant in the CLCN4 gene, establishing this as the causative gene in the family. Pathogenic variants in the CLCN4 gene cause a neurodevelopmental disorder (also called Raynaud‐Claes syndrome) inherited in an X‐linked pattern. The disorder is characterised by developmental delay, intellectual disability, autism spectrum disorder, epilepsy, mental health conditions, and significant feeding difficulties, predominantly, but not exclusively, affecting males. This is the first report of a prenatal phenotype associated with variants in the CLCN4 gene. The diagnosis of the CLCN4‐related neurodevelopmental disorder in this family allowed accurate genetic counseling and discussion of reproductive choices. This leaves uncertainty about the possibility of a postnatal neurodevelopmental phenotype in heterozygous females, which we discuss.
Efficacy of five nematicides against root‐knot nematode when applied via single and double drip tapes in a Florida sandy soil
Authors: Bui Hung X. , Desaeger Johan A.
Published: July 2023

Background

The efficacy of drip‐applied nematicides depends on adequate product distribution, which can be difficult in sandy soils. Three new non‐fumigant nematicides (fluazaindolizine, fluensulfone, fluopyram), together with two old nematicides, oxamyl and metam potassium, were evaluated when applied via single and double drip tapes to control root‐knot nematode in cucumber and squash in Florida between February 2020 and December 2022.

Results

Nematicide applications via double drip tapes resulted in lower root gall infection (and tend to have higher yield) as compared to a single tape for fluopyram, but no difference was noted between single and double tapes for oxamyl and fluazaindolizine. Fluensulfone response was somewhere in between and metam potassium had higher squash yield when applied with double tapes. Root‐knot infection was higher in cucumber than in squash, and metam potassium had the highest yields and lowest nematode infection compared to other nematicide treatments.

Conclusion

The benefit of double versus single drip tapes depended on the type of nematicide that was applied and was evident for nematicides that have poor water solubility like fluopyram. Some benefit was noted for metam potassium, but no or limited benefit was noted for oxamyl, fluazaindolizine and fluensulfone. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Disturbance rejection‐based cluster synchronization of nonlinear complex dynamical networks with hybrid‐driven mechanism
Authors: Devi Nallamuthu Birundha , Rathinasamy Sakthivel , Shanmugam Harshavarthini , Ran Guangtao
Published: July 2023

The issue of cluster synchronization and disturbance rejection of multi‐weighted complex dynamical networks subject to nonlinearities and external disturbances are studied in this article. In particular, a hybrid‐triggering control scheme is implemented to mitigate the burden of the network transmission according to the prespecified triggering condition, under which each node will transmit its signal independently to the controller. To be more specific, a Bernoulli distributed stochastic variable is introduced to describe the switching law of the communication scheme. Also, the disturbance rejection performance is carried out with the aid of an improved equivalent input disturbance estimator approach. The sufficient criterion in the form of linear matrix inequalities is derived by constructing a suitable Lyapunov–Krasovskii functional and employing stochastic theory. Based on these settings, the feedback gain matrices and the trigger parameters affirming the desired cluster synchronization performance of the considered networks are established. Eventually, two illustrative examples including Lur'e networks with simulations are presented, which evidently proves the effectiveness of the obtained results.
Leveraging stakeholder engagement for market value growth: Empirical evidence on sustainable development leadership in Europe
Authors: Garcia‐Blandon Josep , Argilés‐Bosch Josep Maria , Ravenda Diego
Published: July 2023

This study analyzes the impact of sustainable development leadership on firm performance. The context of the empirical analysis is the European region between 2010 and 2018. Sustainable development leaders are defined as the firms included in the Dow Jones Sustainability Index for Europe. To control for endogeneity problems caused by self‐selection bias in the sample, the research design relies on Heckman two‐stage model. The results show that stock market participants do not perceive sustainability leadership as an asset that adds value to the firm. Our findings also suggest that corporate governance shapes the relationship between sustainable development leadership and performance as common‐law countries have a more positive perception sustainable development leadership than civil‐law countries. Additionally, the study reveals a decline in stock market sentiment toward sustainability leadership over the research period, indicating a potential loss of competitive advantage for sustainable development leaders as sustainability initiatives become more widespread.
Prioritizing decision‐making of health and well‐being response tactics: Incorporating organizational and individual shared demands
Authors: Zhou Xiaofeng , Hu Xiangyang , Sun Pengyi , Wang Yuhao , Tong Ruipeng
Published: July 2023

As a major energy source in China, the occupational health and well‐being (OHW) of miners is a priority. Various statistical techniques have been used to identify factors or assess OHW to provide valuable information for the implementation of health promotion activities. The main bottleneck is the limited focus on solutions that address the demands of both organizations and individuals, and scientific and effective decision‐making is pending. Therefore, this study describes the OHW mechanism covering both antecedents and consequences through the driving force‐pressure‐state‐impact‐response model. A probabilistic model of management tradeoff analysis was established by using a Bayesian decision network. Causal relationships and dependencies between multiple factors are captured visually. The model was verified and applied with samples of miners (N = 816). The results showed that the comprehensive strategy (R5) was the best tactic, and the management effect of stress (R2) and vulnerability (R3) was prominent. This study provides a valuable tool for managers to identify priority management factors. Prioritizing tactics formulated from dual demands of organizational and individual can ensure project feasibility, operability, and effectiveness. This study is a novel attempt to combine theory with practice, which is timely and necessary for management.
A Data‐Driven Approach to Complex Voxel Predictions in Grayscale Digital Light Processing Additive Manufacturing Using U‐Nets and Generative Adversarial Networks
Authors: Killgore Jason P. , Kolibaba Thomas J. , Caplins Benjamin W. , Higgins Callie I. , Rezac Jacob D.
Published: July 2023

Data‐driven U‐net machine learning (ML) models, including the pix2pix conditional generative adversarial network (cGAN), are shown to predict 3D printed voxel geometry in digital light processing (DLP) additive manufacturing. A confocal microscopy‐based workflow allows for the high‐throughput acquisition of data on thousands of voxel interactions arising from randomly gray‐scaled digital photomasks. Validation between prints and predictions shows accurate predictions with sub‐pixel scale resolution. The trained cGAN performs virtual DLP experiments such as feature size‐dependent cure depth, anti‐aliasing, and sub‐pixel geometry control. The pix2pix model is also applicable to larger masks than it is trained on. To this end, the model can qualitatively inform layer‐scale and voxel‐scale print failures in real 3D‐printed parts. Overall, machine learning models and the data‐driven methodology, exemplified by U‐nets and cGANs, show considerable promise for predicting and correcting photomasks to achieve increased precision in DLP additive manufacturing.
Moduli inflation from modular flavor symmetries
Authors: Abe Yoshihiko , Higaki Tetsutaro , Kaneko Fumiya , Kobayashi Tatsuo , Otsuka Hajime
Published: July 2023

Abstract

We study slow-roll inflation model controlled by the modular flavor symmetry. In the model, the modulus field plays a role of inflaton and the introduction of the stabilizer field coupled to a modular form in the superpotential produces the inflaton potential. In order to generate the flat direction for the slow-roll inflation, we consider the Kähler potential corrected by the modular form. It is noted that the modulus field perpendicular to the inflaton direction is stabilized during the inflation. The model turns out to be consistent with the current observations and behaves similarly to the α-attractor models in some parameter spaces. The inflaton rolls down to the CP-symmetric vacuum at the end of inflation.
Extractions of |Vub|/|Vcb| from a combined study of the exclusive $$ b\to u(c){\ell}^{-}{\overline{\nu}}_{\ell } $$ decays
Authors: Biswas Aritra , Nandi Soumitra , Ray Ipsita
Published: July 2023

Abstract

We have extracted the ratio |Vub|/|Vcb| from a combined study of the available inputs on $$ \overline{B}\to \left(\pi, \rho, \omega \right){\ell}^{-}{\overline{\nu}}_{\ell } $$

B
¯

→

π
ρ
ω

ℓ
−

ν
¯

ℓ

and $$ \overline{B}\left({\overline{B}}_s\right)\to \left({D}^{\left(\ast \right)},{D}_s^{\left(\ast \right)}\right){\ell}^{-}{\overline{\nu}}_{\ell }\ \left(\ell =\mu\ \textrm{or}\ e\right) $$

B
¯

B
¯

s

→

D

∗

D
s

∗

ℓ
−

ν
¯

ℓ

ℓ
=
μ

or

e

decays. We have done our analysis with and without the inclusion of the available experimental results on the branching fraction $$ \mathcal{BR}\left({\overline{B}}_s\to {K}^{+}{\mu}^{-}{\overline{\nu}}_{\mu}\right) $$
BR

B
¯

s

→

K
+

μ
−

ν
¯

μ

or the ratio of the rates $$ \Gamma \left({\overline{B}}_s\to {K}^{+}{\ell}^{-}{\overline{\nu}}_{\ell}\right)/\Gamma \left({\overline{B}}_s\to {D}_s^{+}{\ell}^{-}{\overline{\nu}}_{\ell}\right) $$
Γ

B
¯

s

→

K
+

ℓ
−

ν
¯

ℓ

/
Γ

B
¯

s

→

D
s
+

ℓ
−

ν
¯

ℓ

. We have used all the available experimental data on the branching fractions in different q2-bins, the available theory inputs on the form factors from lattice and the light cone sum rule (LCSR) approach; analysed the data in different possible scenarios and presented the results. From a combined analysis of all the b → cℓ−νℓ exclusive decays, we have obtained |Vcb| = (40.5 ± 0.6) × 10−3 and from all the b → uℓ−νℓ modes, we obtain |Vub| = (3.46 ± 0.12) × 10−3 which changes to |Vub| = (3.51 ± 0.13) × 10−3 after dropping $$ \mathcal{BR}\left({\overline{B}}_s\to {K}^{+}{\mu}^{-}{\overline{\nu}}_{\mu}\right) $$
BR

B
¯

s

→

K
+

μ
−

ν
¯

μ

. We hence report the values of the ratio |Vub|/|Vcb| = 0.085 ± 0.003 and 0.087 ± 0.003 with and without the input from $$ {\overline{B}}_s\to {K}^{+}{\mu}^{-}{\overline{\nu}}_{\mu } $$

B
¯

s

→

K
+

μ
−

ν
¯

μ

modes, respectively. We have also predicted the ratio $$ \Gamma \left({\overline{B}}_s\to {K}^{+}{\ell}^{-}{\overline{\nu}}_{\ell}\right)/\Gamma \left({\overline{B}}_s\to {D}_s^{+}{\ell}^{-}{\overline{\nu}}_{\ell}\right) $$
Γ

B
¯

s

→

K
+

ℓ
−

ν
¯

ℓ

/
Γ

B
¯

s

→

D
s
+

ℓ
−

ν
¯

ℓ

using the fit results. In addition, we provide the predictions of $$ \mathcal{BR}\left({\overline{B}}_s\to {K}^{+}{\mu}^{-}{\overline{\nu}}_{\mu}\right) $$
BR

B
¯

s

→

K
+

μ
−

ν
¯

μ

and $$ \mathcal{BR}\left(\overline{B}\to \left(\rho, \omega \right){\ell}^{-}{\overline{\nu}}_{\ell}\right) $$
BR

B
¯

→

ρ
ω

ℓ
−

ν
¯

ℓ

in the Standard Model (SM) in small q2-bins.
Two body final states production in electron-positron annihilation and their contributions to (g − 2)μ
Authors: Wang Shi-Jia , Fang Zhen , Dai Ling-Yun
Published: July 2023

Abstract

In this paper, we study the processes of e+e− annihilation into two body final states, either two pseudoscalar mesons or one meson with a photon. The hadronic vacuum polarization form factors are calculated within the framework of resonance chiral theory in the energy region of E ≲ 2 GeV, with final state interactions taken into account. A joint analysis on the processes of e+e−→ π+π−, K+K−, $$ {K}_L^0{K}_S^0 $$

K
L
0

K
S
0

, π0γ, and ηγ has been performed, and the latest experimental data are included. Based on the vacuum polarization form factors of these processes, we estimate their contributions to the lowest order of anomalous magnetic moment of the muon, (g – 2)μ. Combined with other contributions from hadronic vacuum polarization and other interactions from the standard model, the discrepancy between theoretical prediction and experimental measurement is ∆aμ = (24.1 ± 5.4) × 10−10, i.e., 4.5σ.
Use of Antimicrobial Irrigation and Incidence of Capsular Contracture in Breast Augmentation and Immediate Implant-Based Breast Reconstruction
Authors: Federica Giuzio , Tommaso Fabrizio , Alessia Catalano , Agostino Ceccarini , Florian Bodog , Antonio Giuliani , Domenico Nicola Massariello , Abdallah Raweh , Carmela Saturnino , Lorenzo Svolacchia , Sergio Brongo
Published: July 2023

Capsular contracture (CC) is one of the most common complications of implant-based breast reconstruction or augmentation surgery. Common risk factors of CC include biofilm, surgical site infections, history of prior CC or fibrosis, history of radiation therapy, and implant characteristics. Though bacterial contamination of breast protheses is associated with adverse sequelae, there are not universally accepted guidelines and limited best practice recommendations for antimicrobial breast pocket irrigation. Despite advanced molecular biology, the exact mechanism of this complication is not fully understood. Interventions that decrease the rate of CC include antibiotic prophylaxis or irrigation, acellular dermal matrix, leukotriene inhibitors, surgical techniques, and others. However, there is inconsistent evidence supporting these risk factors, and the current data was based on broad heterogeneous studies. The objective of this review was to provide a summary of the current data of contributing risk factors as well as preventative and treatment measures for CC.

Level of Evidence III This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these evidence-based medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors http://www.springer.com/00266