bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Emotional inhibition mediates the relationship between maternal postpartum security and pregnancy distress in China: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Wang Hengxu , Zheng Mingxiang , Li ChaoFeng , Wu Ying , Fan Min , Liu Lihua
Published: February 2024

Objective

Pregnancy and childbirth bring not only joy but also a concomitant sense of insecurity, which may adversely affect health, role adaptation, and relationships. This study aimed to explore the risk factors for postpartum mothers' sense of security.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study used questionnaires on Parents' Postnatal Sense of Security, Tilburg Pregnancy Distress Scale, and the Emotional Inhibition Scale. Structural equation modeling was used to calculate the mediating effect.

Results

The mean postnatal maternal security value was 44.77 ± 9.02. Multiple regression analyses revealed that several factors, including companionship of the partner during pregnancy, number of prenatal visits accompanied by the partner, complications during pregnancy, pregnancy distress, and emotional inhibition, independently predicted maternal security. Moreover, our structural equation model revealed that emotional inhibition significantly influenced maternal postpartum security directly (β = −0.30, P < 0.001). In addition, pregnancy distress affected maternal security directly (β = −0.45, P < 0.001) and indirectly (β = −0.129, P < 0.001) through emotional inhibition.

Conclusion

This study indicated a lower level of postpartum maternal sense of security. Emotional inhibition partially mediates the relationship between postpartum maternal sense of security and pregnancy distress. Therefore, health care professionals providing guidance to pregnant and postpartum women on proper emotional regulation and early identification of pregnancy distress may be more effective in enhancing their postpartum sense of security.
“Oh my god, I did that!”: Proud writing moments as a key ingredient for supportive and individualized writing instruction
Authors: Fields Susan S. , Dobbs Christina L.
Published: February 2024

This discussion article presents practices for designing more supportive and individualized writing tasks for adolescent and young adult students. The practices emerged from a synthesis of findings from a prior study in which we asked 79 undergraduates to talk about moments from their writing histories that made them feel proud of their writing.
Integrating clinical pharmacists into transitions of care: A qualitative study of barriers and facilitators among federally qualified health centers
Authors: Weideman Ben C. D. , White Katie M. , Farley Joel F. , Sorge Lindsay A. , Pradeep Swetha , Cannon Athena , Tran Kim , Pestka Deborah L.
Published: February 2024

Background

Comprehensive medication management (CMM) is a service provided by clinical pharmacists. CMM aims to optimize pharmacotherapy outcomes by ensuring patients' medications are indicated, effective, safe, and patients are able to adhere to the prescribed medication regimen and take the medications as intended. The goal of CMM is to optimize patients' medications to ensure they are meeting their medication and health‐related goals.

Objective

The objective of this project is to evaluate facilitators and barriers to integrating CMM during transitions of care (ToC) at Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs).

Design

Semistructured qualitative interviews were conducted with 22 key informants identified through purposive sampling at three FQHCs. Interviews were coded and analyzed deductively using a modified Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) adapted for ToC.

Key Results

Thirty‐nine codes were identified across all CFIR constructs, including the addition of a new construct, “Patient characteristics.” Major facilitators included the perceived advantage and feasibility of the intervention, standardization of ToC processes, and organizational buy‐in. Major barriers included health information technology system limitations, communication barriers with discharge facilities, technical and staffing challenges in applying criteria to identify patients for CMM, and low patient throughput.

Conclusions

Identifying early‐stage barriers and facilitators are key to maximize facilitators and address barriers to support successful implementation. The findings of this work are being used to guide project adaptations to better integrate CMM into the ToC processes.
l‐Methionine potentiates anticancer activity of Sorafenib by epigenetically altering DUSP3/ERK pathway in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Pal Swagata , Kabeer Shaheen Wasil , Sharma Shivam , Tikoo Kulbhushan
Published: February 2024

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the third most common cancer‐related cause of death worldwide. Although Sorafenib is the standard systemic therapy for treating HCC, but it develops resistance very quickly, leading to poor prognosis. The current study was planned to explore the effect of l‐methionine on the anticancer activity of Sorafenib in HCC. Ten millimolar of l‐methionine treatment significantly reduced the IC50 of Sorafenib from 5.513 ± 0.171 to 0.8095 ± 0.0465 µM in HepG2 cell line. It also resulted in concomitant increase in oxidative stress and deactivation of ERK/AMPK/AKT pathway. Additionally, it also resulted in the increased expression of dual specificity phosphatase 3 (DUSP3). In a rat model of sorafenib‐resistant HCC induced by diethylnitrosamine (DEN) (100 mg/L/day) and Sorafenib (10 mg/kg), l‐methionine (300 and 500 mg/kg/day) supplementation overcame the drug resistance, as indicated by the reduced formation of surface tumor nodules, prevention of cellular hypertrophy, hyperplasia and inflammation, and improved animal survival. Furthermore, l‐methionine in combination with Sorafenib also inhibited AMPK/AKT and ERK pathway. At chromatin level, l‐methionine supplementation prevented global methylation of H3K27me3, an inactivation mark, and demethylation of H3K36me2, an activation mark. Interestingly, our findings suggest that inhibition of the ERK pathway via increased activity of DUSP3 is epigenetically regulated. Besides, chromatin immunoprecipitation data exhibited augmented H3K36me2 (an activation mark) levels on the DUSP3 promoter region. To the best of our knowledge, we are the first to report that l‐methionine supplementation improves the chemosensitivity in Sorafenib‐resistant HCC via modulating the epigenetic landscape and can be a potential therapeutic strategy.
Differential relations between breathing retraining, in vivo exposure, and imaginal exposure homework completion and treatment outcomes in veterans receiving prolonged exposure for PTSD
Authors: Gros Daniel F. , Pavlacic Jeffrey M. , Argyriou Evangelia , Acierno Ron , Hernandez‐Tejada Melba A.
Published: February 2024

Objectives

Limited research exists that outlines the predictive relevance of the treatment components of prolonged exposure (PE) for post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) on PTSD and depression symptom outcomes. The goal of the present study was to investigate relations between participant completion of breathing retraining, in vivo exposure, and imaginal exposure exercises and symptom outcomes.

Methods

A total of 58 participants completed a trial of PE as part of a larger trial on peer involvement and treatment adherence. Diagnostic and self‐report measures were completed throughout treatment. Participants also recorded weekly completion of breathing retraining, in vivo exposure, and imaginal exposure exercises. Pearson correlations and hierarchical regression analyses were used to investigate relations between average weekly treatment component completion and treatment outcomes, controlling for relevant variables.

Results

Although breathing retraining and in vivo exposures were associated with PTSD outcomes in the correlational findings, use of breathing retraining, in vivo exposures, and imaginal exposures were not reliably associated with PTSD symptom outcomes when controlling for other variables in the regression analysis. However, when investigating changes in comorbid symptoms of depression, greater use of breathing retraining was associated with decreased symptoms of depression at posttreatment.

Conclusions

Present findings demonstrate the differential relations between participation in various PE treatment components and posttreatment symptom outcomes. The importance of breathing retraining in addressing comorbid depressive symptoms is discussed, with emphasis on potentially increasing relaxation and positive activities more broadly to encourage further treatment benefits.
Investigating the network structure and causal relationships among bridge symptoms of comorbid depression and anxiety: A Bayesian network analysis
Authors: Wang Yu , Li Zhongquan , Cao Xing
Published: February 2024

Background

The network analysis method emphasizes the interaction between individual symptoms to identify shared or bridging symptoms between depression and anxiety to understand comorbidity. However, the network analysis and community detection approach have limitations in identifying causal relationships among symptoms. This study aims to address this gap by applying Bayesian network (BN) analysis to investigate potential causal relationships.

Method

Data were collected from a sample of newly enrolled college students. The network structure of depression and anxiety was estimated using the Patient Health Questionnaire‐9 (PHQ‐9) and the Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD‐7) Scale measures, respectively. Shared symptoms between depression and anxiety were identified through network analysis and clique percolation (CP) method. The causal relationships among symptoms were estimated using BN.

Results

The strongest bridge symptoms, as indicated by bridge strength, include sad mood (PHQ2), motor (PHQ8), suicide (PHQ9), restlessness (GAD5), and irritability (GAD6). These bridge symptoms formed a distinct community using the CP algorithm. Sad mood (PHQ2) played an activating role, influencing other symptoms. Meanwhile, restlessness (GAD5) played a mediating role with reciprocal influences on both anxiety and depression symptoms. Motor (PHQ8), suicide (PHQ9), and irritability (GAD6) assumed recipient positions.

Conclusion

BN analysis presents a valuable approach for investigating the complex interplay between symptoms in the context of comorbid depression and anxiety. It identifies two activating symptoms (i.e., sadness and worry), which serve to underscore the fundamental differences between these two disorders. Additionally, psychomotor symptoms and suicidal ideations are recognized as recipient roles, being influenced by other symptoms within the network.
Bilateral trade between China and ASEAN countries before and during COVID‐19 using a comparative analysis
Authors: Ma Liwen , Ali Mohsin
Published: February 2024

ASEAN organizations play a vital role in sustaining bilateral trade between China and ASEAN countries. However, the COVID‐19 pandemic has introduced disruptions to global bilateral trade. Therefore, research should investigate the impact of ASEAN organizations on the trade between China and ASEAN nations, particularly during the pandemic. This study aims to address the effectiveness of ASEAN organizations in managing bilateral trade during the pandemic and gauging their influence. The study's sample includes nine ASEAN countries, and the data span from 2016 to 2021. The analysis uses the difference‐in‐differences model, with the parallel trend test verifying the differences between investigated variables. The results demonstrate that the influence of the ASEAN organization is significant on trade activities between China and the ASEAN member countries, positively impacting bilateral trade during the COVID‐19 period. These findings not only contribute to our understanding of bilateral trade during a special period but also offer insights for enhancing the efficacy of the ASEAN organization and governments to promote bilateral trade.
Biophysical and structural characterization of tetramethrin serum protein complex and its toxicological implications
Authors: Singh Pratik , Gopi Priyanka , Rani Majji Sai Sudha , Singh Shweta , Pandya Prateek
Published: February 2024

Tetramethrin (TMT) is a commonly used insecticide and has a carcinogenic and neurodegenerative effect on humans. The binding mechanism and toxicological implications of TMT to human serum albumin (HSA) were examined in this study employing a combination of biophysical and computational methods indicating moderate binding affinity and potential hepato and renal toxicity. Fluorescence quenching experiments showed that TMT binds to HSA with a moderate affinity, and the binding process was spontaneous and predominantly enthalpy‐driven. Circular dichroism spectroscopy revealed that TMT binding did not induce any significant conformational changes in HSA, resulting in no changes in its alpha‐helix content. The binding site and modalities of TMT interactions with HSA as computed by molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations revealed that it binds to Sudlow site II of HSA via hydrophobic interactions through its dimethylcyclopropane carboxylate methyl propanyl group. The structural dynamics of TMT induce proper fit into the binding site creating increased and stabilizing interactions. Additionally, molecular mechanics–Poisson Boltzmann surface area calculations also indicated that non‐polar and van der Waals were found to be the major contributors to the high binding free energy of the complex. Quantum mechanics (QM) revealed the conformational energies of the binding confirmation and the degree of deviation from the global minimum energy conformation of TMT. The results of this study provide a comprehensive understanding of the binding mechanism of TMT with HSA, which is important for evaluating the toxicity of this insecticide in humans.
A scoping review of human skeletal kinematics research using biplane radiography
Authors: Setliff Joshua C. , Anderst William J.
Published: February 2024

Biplane radiography has emerged as the gold standard for accurately measuring in vivo skeletal kinematics during physiological loading. The purpose of this scoping review was to map the extent, range, and nature of biplane radiography research on humans from 2004 through 2022. A literature search was performed using the terms biplane radiography, dual fluoroscopy, dynamic stereo X‐ray, and biplane videoradiography. All articles referenced in included publications were also assessed for inclusion. A secondary search was then performed using the names of the most frequently appearing principal investigators among included papers. A total of 379 manuscripts were identified and included. The first studies published in 2004 focused on the native knee, followed by studies of the ankle joint complex in 2006, the shoulder in 2007, and the spine in 2008. Nearly half (180, 47.5%) of all manuscripts investigated knee kinematics. The average number of publications increased from 21.6 per year from 2012 to 2017 to 34.6 per year from 2017 to 2022. The average number of participants per study was 16, with a range from 1 to 101. A total of 90.2% of studies featured cohorts of 30 or less. The most prolific research groups for each joint were: Mass General Hospital (lumbar spine and knee), Henry Ford Hospital (shoulder), the University of Utah (ankle and hip), The University of Pittsburgh (cervical spine), and Brown University (hand/wrist/elbow). Future advancements in biplane radiography research are dependent upon increased availability of these imaging systems, standardization of data collection protocols, and the development of automated approaches to expedite data processing.
Decreased abdominal wall muscle mass defined by muscle ultrasound is associated with malnutrition according to Global Leadership Initiative on Malnutrition criteria in renal transplant recipients: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Güner Merve , Girgin Sinem , Yıldırım Tolga , Okyar Baş Arzu , Ceylan Serdar , Öztürk Yelda , Koca Meltem , Balcı Cafer , Doğu Burcu Balam , Cankurtaran Mustafa , Halil Meltem Gülhan
Published: February 2024

Background

Changed body composition with increased fat content and decreased muscle mass is seen in renal transplantation recipients (RTRs). Increased fat mass might mask underlying muscle mass loss; measuring low body mass index and weight reduction alone may not be sensitive enough to diagnose malnutrition in RTRs. We aimed to determine the prevalence of malnutrition in stable RTRs using the Global Leadership Initiative on Malnutrition (GLIM) criteria and to assess the use of muscle ultrasonography (US) to compare the performance of various muscle US measurements in the diagnosis of reduced muscle mass.

Methods

Ninety‐one patients who had renal transplantation >6 months ago were enrolled in the study. GLIM criteria were performed for all patients, but not those at risk of malnutrition. Bioelectrical impedance analysis and muscle US were performed to identify reduced muscle mass.

Results

The prevalence of malnutrition according to GLIM criteria was 25.3% (n = 23). All muscle US measurements were lower in the malnourished group than the well‐nourished group; however, the malnourished group had substantially lower muscle thicknesses in abdominal muscles, specifically the external oblique (EO) and internal oblique (IO) muscles, than the well‐nourished group (P = 0.001 and P = 0.007, respectively). There was a significant association between malnutrition and EO (odds ratio [OR] = 0.338, 95% CI = 0.163–0.699; P = 0.003) and IO (OR = 0.620, 95% CI = 0.427–0.900; P = 0.012) regardless of age and sex.

Conclusion

One in four RTRs experience malnutrition. Muscle US could be used effectively for the diagnosis of reduced muscle mass and malnutrition in RTRs according to GLIM criteria.
Ustekinumab is effective and safe in the long‐term treatment of erythrodermic psoriasis: Multicenter study in daily practice
Authors: Plana Clara , Concha‐Garzón Maria J. , Rocamora Vicen C. , Baniandrés Ofelia , Feltes Rosa , López‐Estebaranz Jose L. , Garcías‐Ladaria Joan , Carrascosa Jose‐Manuel , Vilarrasa Eva , Soria Caridad , Navajas Belen , Llamas‐Velasco Mar , Dauden Esteban
Published: February 2024

Background

The treatment of erythrodermic psoriasis (EP) is challenging. Biological therapies have shown promising results in the long‐term management of this clinical variant, but most of the current available evidence is based on single case reports and short case series.

Objectives

To determine the effectiveness and safety of ustekinumab (UST) in the treatment of EP under daily practice conditions.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective, observational, nationwide, multicenter cohort study of patients diagnosed with EP treated with UST under daily practice conditions with up to 3 years of follow‐up. Outcomes, such as the psoriasis area and severity index (PASI) and safety, were assessed at months 1, 4, 7, 13, 19, 25, 31 and 37 during treatment. “As observed” and “intention‐to‐treat last observation carried forward (ITT‐LOCF)” analyses were performed.

Results

Twenty‐eight patients were enroled in the study. Baseline mean PASI was 43.1. A sharp decrease in mean PASI was observed during the first 7 months, reaching a plateau that was maintained until the end of the 37‐month follow‐up. At 7 months, 61% and 43% of the patients achieved PASI ≤ 2 and PASI 0, respectively. At 25 months, 48 (39%) (“as observed”/ITT‐LOCF) of the patients achieved complete clearance. At 31 months, PASI 75, PASI 90 and PASI 100 were achieved in 95, 80 and 45 (79%, 64% and 39%) (“as observed”/ITT‐LOCF) of the patients, respectively. Eleven patients required treatment intensification by reducing the interval between doses. Treatment minimisation was performed in four patients. During the follow‐up, nine patients (32%) received systemic combination therapy at some point. Eight patients discontinued treatment mainly due to lack of effectiveness. UST presented a good safety profile. With a follow‐up of 69.25 patient/years, only three patients exhibited serious nondrug‐related adverse events.

Conclusions

Ustekinumab can be a fast, effective and safe alternative for the long‐term treatment of erythrodermic psoriasis.
Validating the accuracy of the Hendrich II Fall Risk Model for hospitalized patients using the ROC curve analysis
Authors: Hu Chieh‐Ying , Sun Li‐Chen , Lin Ming‐Yen , Chen Mei‐Hsing , Hsu Hsin‐Tien
Published: February 2024

This retrospective study was conducted at a medical center in southern Taiwan to assess the accuracy of the Hendrich II Fall Risk Model (HIIFRM) in predicting falls. Sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, and optimal cutoff points were analyzed using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. Data analysis was conducted using information from the electronic medical record and patient safety reporting systems, capturing 303 fall events and 47,146 non‐fall events. Results revealed that at the standard threshold of HIIFRM score ≥5, the median score in the fall group was significantly higher than in the non‐fall group. The top three units with HIIFRM scores exceeding 5 were the internal medicine (50.6%), surgical (26.5%), and oncology wards (14.1%), indicating a higher risk of falls in these areas. ROC analysis showed an HIIFRM sensitivity of 29.5% and specificity of 86.3%. The area under the curve (AUC) was 0.57, indicating limited discriminative ability in predicting falls. At a lower cutoff score (≥2), the AUC was 0.75 (95% confidence interval: 0.666–0.706; p < 0.0001), suggesting acceptable discriminative ability in predicting falls, with an additional identification of 101 fall events. This study emphasizes the importance of selecting an appropriate cutoff score when using the HIIFRM as a fall risk assessment tool. The findings have implications for fall prevention strategies and patient care in clinical settings, potentially leading to improved outcomes and patient safety.
Decisional Conflict in Patients with Advanced Laryngeal Carcinoma: A Multicenter Study
Authors: Heirman Anne N. , de Kort Daan P. , Petersen Japke F. , Al‐Mamgani Abrahim , Eerenstein Simone E.J. , de Kleijn Bertram J. , Hoebers Frank , Tijink Bernard M. , Stuiver Martijn M. , van der Molen Lisette , Dirven Richard , Halmos Gyorgy B. , van den Brekel Michiel W.M.
Published: February 2024

Objectives

Decision‐making for patients with a locally advanced laryngeal carcinoma (T3 and T4) is challenging due to the treatment choice between organ preservation and laryngectomy, both with different and high impact on function and quality of life (QoL). The complexity of these treatment decisions and their possible consequences might lead to decisional conflict (DC). This study aimed to explore the level of DC in locally advanced laryngeal carcinoma patients facing curative decision‐making, and to identify possible associated factors.

Methods

In this multicenter prospective cohort study, participants completed questionnaires on DC, level of shared decision‐making (SDM), and a knowledge test directly after counseling and 6 months after treatment. Descriptive statistics and Spearman correlation tests were used to analyze the data.

Results

Directly after counseling, almost all participants (44/45; 98%) experienced Clinically Significant DC score (CSDC >25, scale 0–100). On average, patients scored 47% (SD 20%) correct on the knowledge test. Questions related to radiotherapy were answered best (69%, SD 29%), whilst only 35% (SD 29%) of the questions related to laryngectomy were answered correctly. Patients' perceived level of SDM (scale 0–100) was 70 (mean, SD 16.2), and for physicians this was 70 (SD 1.7).

Conclusion

Most patients with advanced larynx cancer experience high levels of DC. Low knowledge levels regarding treatment aspects indicate a need for better patient counseling.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 134:3604–3610, 2024
Characterizing Long‐Term Swallowing and Voice Outcomes Following Anterior Transcervical Approach
Authors: Toure Ahmed , Abend Audrey , Lipsky Rachel S. , Kutler David I.
Published: February 2024

Objectives

(1) Assess the frequency and severity of long‐term swallowing and voice complaints, follow‐up care, risk factors for the development of long‐term swallowing and voice complications in patients who underwent anterior transcervical approach (ACA). (2) Determine incidence of long‐term swallowing and voice complications requiring follow‐up otolaryngologic care and assess the frequency of otolaryngologic follow‐up for postoperative swallowing and voice complaints.

Methods

Retrospective cohort study of patients between January 2017 and March 2020 who underwent ACA. Demographic information, data from preoperative evaluation, operative records, and data from postoperative visits were collected. Patients were contacted to complete the Eating Assessment Tool and the “Impairment” subset of the Voice Symptoms Scale.

Results

A total of 48 patients (10.6%) followed up with a head and neck surgeon for swallowing complaints and 31 patients (6.8%) for voice complaints. Otolaryngology follow‐up for swallowing complaints among patients with at least 3 and 12 months of follow‐up was 16.4% and 17.8%, respectively. Otolaryngology follow‐up for voice complaints among patients with at least 3 and 12 months of follow‐up was 11.7% and 11.9%, respectively. Swallowing function was abnormal in 40.7% at least 3 months after surgery and in 41.8% 12 months after. Voice function was abnormal in 55.7% of respondents at least 3 months after surgery and in 54.5% of respondents 12 months after.

Conclusions

ACA is associated with otolaryngologic complications that include dysphagia and dysphonia. This study demonstrates that long‐term swallowing and voice dysfunction appear to persist longer than what is noted by patient utilization of follow‐up otolaryngologic care.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 134:3201–3205, 2024
Combining approaches for environmental assessment of rehabilitated gold‐mining areas in the Eastern Amazon
Authors: Ramos Silvio Junio , de Oliveira Schweyka Stanley Holanda , Ribeiro Paula Godinho , Martins Gabriel Caixeta , da Silva Junior Ediu Carlos , Gastauer Markus , Caldeira Cecílio Frois , Pereira Wendel Valter da Silveira , Santos Diogo Corrêa , Sarmento Priscila Sanjuan de Medeiros , Nascimento Júnior Wilson da Rocha , Souza‐Filho Pedro Walfir Martins
Published: February 2024

Monitoring key soil and vegetation attributes in mining areas under environmental rehabilitation is essential to ensure that the intervention techniques are effective. There are several approaches to monitoring mining areas and their integration is necessary to process large amounts of information. Thus, this study aimed to (i) assess soil multi‐contamination with potentially toxic elements (PTE) and human health risks; (ii) obtain a soil quality index with soil fertility data; (iii) calculate spectral index; (iv) show rehabilitation status based on vegetation attributes, and (v) compile these indices in a single measure. Four tailings' ponds (TPs), two waste piles (WPs), and an area of native forest from a gold mine in the Carajás National Forest were evaluated. Soil quality and vegetation cover are good in forest areas, with no evidence of PTE contamination. On the other hand, the TPs have poor fertility and vegetation cover, as well as higher levels of PTE. Human health risk indices obtained for all PTE were lower than 1, indicating a low risk to human health. The results of integrating the different indices suggest that the environmental conditions of the WPs are better than those of the TPs, which are still far from the environmental conditions of native areas. Soil attributes and vegetation development in TPs areas could be enhanced by the incorporation of organic materials and fertilizers and by planting species with phytoremediation potential. Finally, the integrative approach of the different indices proved to be useful in assessing the rehabilitation progress of the areas.
Detritivore physiology and growth benefit from algal presence during microbial leaf colonization
Authors: Feckler Alexander , Pietz Sebastian , Gonçalves Sara , Gerstle Verena , Risse‐Buhl Ute , Bundschuh Mirco
Published: February 2024

In headwater streams, riparian leaf litter is the primary food source for detritivores. While it is well known that aquatic fungi improve the nutritious quality of leaves, our understanding on whether and how benthic algae influence this process remains limited. Here, we hypothesized that the interplay between algae and fungi, termed “algal priming”, further enhances food quality. In a 40‐d microcosm experiment, we fed Gammarus fossarum of two size classes with Fagus sylvatica leaves of varying qualities: pure leaves (low quality), leaves colonized by fungi (intermediate quality), and leaves colonized by fungi in the presence of a diatom (high quality). Our results revealed that Gammarus' ingestion rates increased (55–164%) with food quality, spurring accelerated growth (4–14%), regardless of the size class. Furthermore, we observed a tendency for Gammarus' overall fatty acid (FA) quantity to rise with higher‐quality food (12–318%), with the FA profile exhibiting increased proportions of specific polyunsaturated FAs that are essential for detritivores. These observations can likely be attributed to leaf‐associated fungi, which are more readily assimilated than the leaves and are known as a source of FA. This enhancing effect by fungi was further amplified in the presence of diatoms, presumably through the positive effect of algal‐derived labile organic carbon, which supports fungal growth. Despite reduced autochthonous primary production in shaded headwater streams, the experimental findings from this study indicate a potential of enhanced secondary production and energy transfer to higher trophic levels within the aquatic ecosystem.
Parameter design and dynamic stability of controllable damping ferrofluid bearing
Authors: Liu Xuhui , Xu Wenqiang , Hu Huina , Wu Yan , Yan Pianpian , Xu Bin
Published: February 2024

The purpose of this paper is to carry out parameter design and dynamic stability verification experiment of controllable damping ferrofluid bearing. A new type of ferrofluid bearings is designed, and its internal magnetic fields are simulated by the finite element analysis software ANSYS. In this paper, the coefficient of magnetic leakage is taken as the optimization object, and the optimal parameters of ferrofluid bearings are updated. At the same time, the working principle of the ferrofluid bearings test platform is introduced, which includes a servomotor with a controller, an eddy displace sensor, an amplifier and a power supply. Finally, the dynamic stability of ferrofluid bearing is verified by experiments. The experimental results show that when the applied current is less than or equal to 0.08 A, the amplitude of the rotor supported by the ferrofluid bearing decreases with the applied current increment. Besides, the dynamic stability of the rotor is also related to the rotational speed. When the applied current is 0.08 A, the amplitude of the rotor supported by the ferrofluid bearing firstly increases and then decreases with the rotational speed increment. It is proved that the ferrofluid bearings have a strong function of the dynamic stability, which can suppress the vibration of the rotor, and have high accuracy of both position and rotation.
How do username and avatar affect people's engagement with native advertising on social media: From the self‐disclosure perspective
Authors: Yang Yanwu , Zhang Jun , Gao Ting (Lisa)
Published: February 2024

The effect of self‐profiling on people's responses toward commercial information (e.g., advertisements) delivered on social media remains unexplored. This study proposed a conceptual model examining the path from the authenticity of username and avatar and its antecedents to native advertising engagement from the perspective of self‐disclosure. Four subsequent studies were conducted to test our research model. The results indicated that the authenticity of username and avatar is a crucial determinant of engagement with advertising information. Moreover, social media involvement moderates the relationship between the authenticity of username and avatar and advertising engagement. Social media engagement partially mediates the relationship between the authenticity of username and avatar and advertising engagement. Regarding the antecedents of the authenticity of username and avatar, self‐presentation, relationship building, privacy concerns, privacy risks and trust belief are significant, while relationship maintenance is insignificant. This study contributes to our understanding of self‐profiling authenticity and its effect on people's engagement by employing the theory of self‐disclosure in the context of social media and provides critical managerial insights for social media platforms and advertisers.
Ionic Thermoelectric Generators in Vertical and Planar Topologies Based on Fluorinated Polymer Hybrid Materials with Ionic Liquids
Authors: Pereira Nelson , Afonso Luis , Salado Manuel , Tubio Carmen R. , Correia Daniela M. , Costa Carlos M. , Lanceros‐Mendez Senentxu
Published: February 2024

Ionic thermoelectrics (TEs), in which voltage generation is based on ion migration, are suitable for applications based on their low cost, high flexibility, high ionic conductivity, and wide range of Seebeck coefficients. This work reports on the development of ionic TE materials based on the poly(vinylidene fluoride‐trifluoroethylene), Poly(VDF‐co‐TrFE), as host polymer blended with different contents of the ionic liquid, IL, 1‐ethyl‐3‐methylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide, [EMIM][TFSI]. The morphology, physico‐chemical, thermal, mechanical, and electrical properties of the samples are evaluated together with the TE response. It is demonstrated that the IL acts as a nucleating agent for polymer crystallization. The mechanical properties and ionic conductivity values are dependent on the IL content. A high room temperature ionic conductivity of 0.008 S cm−1 is obtained for the sample with 60 wt% of [EMIM][TFSI] IL. The TE properties depend on both IL content and device topology‐vertical or planar‐the largest generated voltage range being obtained for the planar topology and the sample with 10 wt% of IL content, characterized by a Seebeck coefficient of 1.2 mV K−1. Based on the obtained maximum power density of 4.9 µW m−2, these materials are suitable for a new generation of TE devices.
Administrative penalties and corporate CSR disclosure strategies
Authors: Duan Linlin , Zhang Jintao , Meng Li
Published: February 2024

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) disclosure is an important way for firms to achieve social goals. As stakeholders pay more attention to CSR performance, the CSR report strategy has attracted academic attention. Prior studies have stressed the important role of positive CSR disclosure strategies in a firm's reputation and market value, but our study shows different findings. Using a sample of China's A‐share listed firms from 2008 to 2019, we find a significant negative correlation between administrative penalties and the use of pictures and tables in CSR reports, which is more significant for firms being penalized rather than individuals in firms. Investor attention and agency costs provide a mechanism explanation. Heterogeneity analysis shows that in regions with a low level of legal institutions, the effects of administrative penalties on the use of pictures and tables in CSR reports are more significant. Nevertheless, the seemingly negative disclosure strategy ultimately contributes to corporate value.
Novel Targets and Potential Mechanisms of Mizuhopecten yessoensis‐Derived Tripeptide NCW as Antihypertensive Peptides
Authors: Wu Sijia , Zhao Wenzhu , Yu Zhipeng
Published: February 2024

Scope

Mizuhopecten yessoensis‐derived tripeptide Asn‐Cys‐Trp (NCW) exhibits a potent antihypertensive effect in vivo. However, a lack of knowledge of the antihypertensive mechanism of tripeptide NCW limits its application for functional foods industrialization. The purpose of this study is to elucidate the corresponding targets and mechanisms of tripeptide NCW in hypertension regulation.

Methods and results

Administration of tripeptide NCW for 3 weeks, the blood pressure of spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs) is significantly decreased. After sacrifice, the serum sample is analyzed using tandem mass tag (TMT)‐based liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry to identify differentially expressed proteins. The proteomic analysis indicates that tripeptide NCW administration alters serum protein profiles in SHR rats, significantly upregulating 106 proteins and downregulating 30 proteins. These proteins enhance the glycolysis, glucose, and TCA cycle, improve amino metabolism, trigger the cAMP/PKA, cGMP/PKG, PI3K/AKT, and AMPK signal pathways, and inhibit Ras‐regulated JNK activation, TGF‐β/MAPK, and TGF‐β/ RhoA/ROCK pathways.

Conclusion

Tripeptide NCW supplementation is demonstrated to regulate signal pathways involved in the control of blood pressure and regulate the energy and amino acids metabolic processes in serum, providing important insights into the protective effects of tripeptide NCW on hypertension.
Echinacoside Exerts Antihepatic Fibrosis Effects in High‐Fat Mice Model by Modulating the ACVR2A‐Smad Pathway
Authors: Liang Jie , Chen Ting , Xu Honglei , Wang Tingfang , Gong Qi , Li Tingting , Liu Xiaoyan , Wang Jing , Wang Yun , Xiong Liyan
Published: February 2024

Scope

Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is an increasingly common chronic liver disease in which hepatic fibrosis is the major pathological change. The transforming growth factor β (TGF‐β)/mall mothers against decapentaplegic (Smad) signaling is the main effector of fibrosis. Although the antifibrotic effect of echinacoside (Ech) on the liver has been indicated previously, the cellular and molecular mechanisms remain unclear. This study aims to investigate both in vivo and in vitro antifibrotic properties of Ech.

Methods and results

Cell viability and scratch/wound assays show that Ech significantly inhibits the proliferation, migration, and activation of human hepatic stellate LX‐2 cells. In mice with high‐fat diet‐induced hepatic fibrosis, Ech treatment attenuates the progression of liver injury, inflammation, and fibrosis. Furthermore, transcriptome analysis and subsequent functional validation demonstrate that Ech achieves antifibrotic effects by the activin receptor type‐2A (ACVR2A)‐mediated TGF‐β1/Smad signaling pathway; ultimately, ACVR2A is demonstrated to be an important target for hepatic fibrosis by inhibiting and inducing the expression of ACVR2A in LX‐2 cells.

Conclusion

Ech exerts potent antifibrotic effects by inhibiting the ACVR2A‐mediated TGF‐β1/Smad signaling axis and may serve as an alternative treatment for hepatic fibrosis.
Intracellular Regulation Limits the Response of Intestinal Ferroportin to Iron Status in Suckling Rats
Authors: Qiu Lili , Hu Mengxiao , Qin Xiyu , Song Rui , Sun Yanan , Wang Xiaoyu
Published: February 2024

Scope

Iron status is regulated via iron absorption as there is no active iron excretion. Divalent metal‐ion transporter‐1 (DMT1) and ferroportin (FPN) are two key proteins vital for iron absorption, but the regulation of them in suckling mammals differs from that in adults. This study aims to explore regulation of iron transporters under different iron conditions during suckling.

Methods and results

This study developed suckling rats under different iron conditions. Unexpectedly, unchanged FPN at different iron status are detected. Since FPN is the only known iron exporter for mammals, unchanged FPN limits iron exported into blood during suckling. Thus, factors regulating FPN at transcriptional, post‐transcriptional, and post‐translational levels are detected. Results showed that Fpn mRNA is upregulated, while micro RNA‐485(miR‐485) which could silence Fpn mRNA is upregulated at low iron status limiting translation of Fpn mRNA. Besides, serum hepcidin and liver Hamp mRNA are upregulated, but ring finger protein 217( Rnf217) mRNA remained unchanged at high iron status leading to FPN not downregulated as adults.

Conclusions

Overall, this study indicates that translational regulation limits intestinal FPN protein response to iron deficiency and Rnf217 cannot effectively mediate the degradation of FPN at high iron status, which provides a reference for maintaining iron homeostasis during suckling.
A wide locking range injection‐locked frequency divider with an auto‐adjusted injection bias
Authors: Lv Jingjing , Wu Yajie , Du Li , Du Yuan
Published: February 2024

This paper presents a Ku‐band divide‐by‐2 direct injection‐locked frequency divider (ILFD) with a wide locking range (LR) and high input sensitivity. The proposed ILFD incorporates an auto‐adjusted injection bias that uses a power detector (PD) to convert the power of the injected signal to a DC voltage. The bias voltage of the injection transistor is then auto‐adjusted in response to the output of the PD. The proposed ILFD employs a 2‐bit switched capacitor array to further enhance the entire LR. Implemented in a 65‐nm CMOS process, the experimental results show that the proposed ILFD achieves an LR of 62.3% (10.5–20 GHz) and 51.2% (11.2–18.9 GHz) at 0 and −10 dBm injection power, respectively. The proposed ILFD consumes 3.6 mW from a 0.6 V supply, and the core area is 0.067 mm2.
A standardised method for improving patient education material readability for orthopaedic trauma patients
Authors: Marshall Samuel , Hanish Stefan J. , Baumann John , Groneck Andrew , DeFroda Steven
Published: February 2024

Purpose

While the National Institutes of Health and American Medical Association recommend patient education materials (PEMs) should be written at the sixth‐grade reading level or below, many patient education materials related to traumatic orthopaedic injuries do not meet these recommendations. The purpose of this study is to create a standardised method for enhancing the readability of trauma‐related orthopaedic PEMs by reducing the use of ≥ three syllable words and reducing the use of sentences >15 words in length. We hypothesise that applying this standardized method will significantly improve the objective readability of orthopaedic trauma PEMs.

Methods

A patient education website was queried for PEMs relevant to traumatic orthopaedic injuries. Orthopaedic trauma PEMs included (N = 40) were unique, written in a prose format, and <3500 words. PEM statistics, including scores for seven independent readability formulae, were determined for each PEM before and after applying this standard method.

Results

All PEMs had significantly different readability scores when comparing original and edited PEMs (p < 0.01). The mean Flesch Kincaid Grade Level of the original PEMs (10.0 ± 1.0) was significantly higher than that of edited PEMs (5.8 ± 1.1) (p < 0.01). None of the original PEMs met recommendations of a sixth‐grade reading level compared with 31 (77.5%) of edited PEMs.

Conclusions

This standard method that reduces the use of ≥ three syllable words and <15 word sentences has been shown to significantly reduce the reading‐grade level of PEMs for traumatic orthopaedic injuries. Improving the readability of PEMs may lead to enhanced health literacy and improved health outcomes.
Diagnosing CIDP: Can we look forward by looking back?
Authors: van Alfen Nens
Published: February 2024

See article on pages 397–402 in this issue.
Trastuzumab‐based nanomedicines for breast cancer therapy: Recent advances and future opportunities
Authors: Selepe Cyril T. , Dhlamini Khanyisile S. , Tshweu Lesego , Moralo Maabo , Kwezi Lusisizwe , Ray Suprakas S. , Ramalapa Bathabile
Published: February 2024

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there are more than 2.3 million cases of breast cancer (BC) each year, with 80% of deaths occurring in low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMICs). Chemotherapeutic agents are used in the treatment of BC to kill or slow the growth of cancer cells. While they can be effective in many cases, they also have potential side effects. These include long‐term effects such as possible damage to healthy organs, limited efficacy, and resistance development. Trastuzumab (Tmab) offers superior treatment options due to low toxicity and high specificity for a target antigen. However, Tmab treatment, despite being available for the last two decades, has remained challenging and expensive to manage, and inaccessible to people in underserved communities. Therefore, it is necessary to ensure that such effective medication is within reach of those in need, regardless of social or economic class. Recent advances in nanomedicine have led to a growing number of studies that show promise in meeting these challenges through access to adequate anticancer drugs in LMICs. This review analyzes such reports while highlighting the progress of nanomedicine and anticancer drug systems and presents opportunities that have been overlooked over the years for LMICs.
Evidence‐based practice attitudes and nutrition support guideline knowledge between holders and nonholders of the Certified Nutrition Support Clinician credential
Authors: Steiner Lea , Sackey Joachim , Cohen Deborah , Brody Rebecca
Published: February 2024

Background

Clinical practice frequently changes, and professionals should stay abreast of evidence‐based practice (EBP) guidelines. Negative attitudes towards EBP are a barrier to guideline adoption. This study explored EBP attitudes and knowledge of a complex nutrition support clinical case scenario of individuals holding or not holding the Certified Nutrition Support Clinician (CNSC) credential.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study used an online survey sent to American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition (ASPEN) members with and without the CNSC credential and all CNSC credential holders from the National Board of Nutrition Support Certification email list. The survey included the Evidence‐Based Practice Attitude Scale Score (EBPAS‐15) and eight knowledge questions using a nutrition support case scenario. An independent samples t test compared knowledge and EBPAS‐15 total scores and subscores between CNSC holders and nonholders. Pearson correlation determined the correlation between knowledge and EBPAS‐15 scores.

Results

The response rate was 7.8% (N = 706). CNSC holders (n = 536) had significantly higher mean knowledge scores (4.7 ± 1.6 out of 8) than nonholders (n = 159, 4.1 ± 1.7) (P < 0.001). Total EBPAS‐15 scores were not significantly different between CNSC holders (n = 542, 2.9 ± 0.4 out of 4) and nonholders (n = 164, 2.8 ± 0.7) (P = 0.434), and knowledge scores and total EBPAS‐15 scores (P = 0.639) or subscores were not significantly correlated.

Conclusions

Regardless of holding the CNSC credential, EBPAS‐15 scores indicated respondents had positive EBP attitudes. CNSC holders had significantly higher knowledge scores of recent nutrition support EBP guidelines compared with non–CNSC credential holders. Positive EBP attitudes are a precursor to clinical decision‐making, but future research should determine the use of guidelines in clinical practice.