bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Forty‐year trends in fatal occupational injuries in North Carolina
Authors: Richardson David B. , Martin Amelia T. , McClure Elizabeth S. , Nocera Maryalice , Cantrell John , Ranapurwala Shabbar I. , Marshall Stephen
Published: November 2023

Background

We describe progress in the control of deaths on‐the‐job due to fatal occupational injury in North Carolina over the period 1978–2017.

Methods

Forty years of information on fatal occupational injuries in North Carolina has been assembled from medical examiners' reports and death certificates, supplemented by newspaper and police reports. Cases were defined as unintentional fatal occupational injuries among adults. Annual estimates of the population at risk were derived from US Census data, and rates were quantified using Poisson regression methods.

Results

There were 4434 eligible deaths. The unintentional fatal occupational injury rate at the beginning of the study period was more than threefold the rate at the end of the study. The fatal occupational injury rate among men declined from 9.6 per 100,000 worker‐years in the period 1978–1982 to 3.1 per 100,000 worker‐years in the period 2013–2017. The fatal occupational injury rate among women declined from 0.3 per 100,000 worker‐years in the period 1978–1981 to 0.1 per 100,000 worker‐years in the period 2013–2017. Declines in rates were observed for young adults as well as older workers and were observed across all major industry categories. Average annual declines in rates were greatest in those industries and occupations that had the highest fatal injury rates at the start of the study period.

Conclusions

The substantial decline in fatal injury rates underscores the importance of injury prevention and demonstrates the ability to make meaningful reductions in unintentional fatal injury.
Defects‐Induced Single‐Atom Anchoring on Metal–Organic Frameworks for High‐Efficiency Photocatalytic Nitrogen Reduction
Authors: Ren Guangmin , Zhao Jianyong , Zhao Zehui , Li Zizhen , Wang Liang , Zhang Zisheng , Li Chunhu , Meng Xiangchao
Published: November 2023

Aiming to improve the photocatalytic activity in N2 fixation to produce ammonia, herein, we proposed a photochemical strategy to fabricate defects, and further deposition of Ru single atoms onto UiO‐66 (Zr) framework. Electron‐metal‐support interactions (EMSI) were built between Ru single atoms and the support via a covalently bonding. EMSI were capable of accelerating charge transfer between Ru SAs and UiO‐66, which was favorable for highly‐efficiently photocatalytic activity. The photocatalytic production rate of ammonia improved from 4.57 μmol g−1 h−1 to 16.28 μmol g−1 h−1 with the fabrication of defects onto UiO‐66, and further to 53.28 μmol g−1 h−1 with Ru‐single atoms loading. From the DFT results, it was found that d‐orbital electrons of Ru were donated to N2 π✶‐antibonding orbital, facilitating the activation of the N≡N triple bond. A distal reaction pathway was probably occurred for the photocatalytic N2 reduction to ammonia on Ru1/d‐UiO‐66 (single Ru sites decorated onto the nodes of defective UiO‐66), and the first step of hydrogenation of N2 was the reaction determination step. This work shed a light on improving the photocatalytic activity via feasibly anchoring single atoms on MOF, and provided more evidences to understand the reaction mechanism in photocatalytic reduction of N2.
Benzothieno[3,2‐b]thiophene‐Based Noncovalent Conformational Lock Achieves Perovskite Solar Cells with Efficiency over 24 %
Authors: Zhang Heng , Yu Xin , Li Mengjia , Zhang Zuolin , Song Zonglong , Zong Xueping , Duan Gongtao , Zhang Wenfeng , Chen Cong , Zhang Wen‐Hua , Liu Yongsheng , Liang Mao
Published: November 2023

Organic semiconductors with noncovalently conformational locks (OSNCs) are promising building blocks for hole‐transporting materials (HTMs). However, lack of satisfied neighboring building blocks negatively impacts the optoelectronic properties of OSNCs‐based HTMs and imperils the stability of perovskite solar cells (PSCs). To address this limitation, we introduce the benzothieno[3,2‐b]thiophene (BTT) to construct a new OSNC, and the resulting HTM ZS13 shows improved intermolecular charge extraction/transport properties, proper energy level, efficient surface passivation effect. Consequently, the champion devices based on doped ZS13 yield an efficiency of 24.39 % and 20.95 % for aperture areas of 0.1 and 1.01 cm2, respectively. Furthermore, ZS13 shows good thermal stability and the capability of inhibiting I− ion migration, thus, leading to enhanced device stability. The success in neighboring‐group engineering can triggered a strong interest in developing thienoacene‐based OSNCs toward efficient and stable PSCs.
Light‐Driven Reversible Multicolor Supramolecular Shuttle
Authors: Zhang Rong , Chen Yong , Liu Yu
Published: November 2023

Light‐driven multicolor supramolecular systems mainly rely on the doping of dyes or a photo‐reaction to produce unidirectional luminescence. Herein, we use visible light to drive the bidirectional reversible multicolor supramolecular shuttle from blue to green, white, yellow, up to orange by simple encapsulation of spiropyran‐modified cyanostilbene (BCNMC) by the macrocyclic cucurbit[8]uril (CB[8]) monomer. The resultant host–guest complex displayed enhanced fluorescence properties, i.e. the multicolor fluorescence shuttle changed from blue to orange in the dark within 2 hours and reverted to the original state upon visible light irradiation for 30 s. Benefiting from the sensitivity of the spiropyran moiety to light, it can spontaneously isomerize from the ring‐opened state to a ring‐closed isomer in aqueous solution, and this photo‐isomerization reaction is a reversible process under visible light irradiation, leading to the multicolor luminescence supramolecular shuttle as a result of intramolecular energy transfer. In addition, the light also drove the reversible conversion of the topological morphology of the host–guest complex from two‐dimensional nanoplatelets to nanospheres. Different from the widely reported molecular rotaxane “shuttle”, the spiropyran supramolecular shuttle confined in the macrocyclic host CB[8] not only modulated a reversible topological morphology by light but also exhibited multicolor luminescence, which was successfully applied in programmed and rewritable information encryption.
Switchable Metal‐Ion Selectivity in Sulfur‐Functionalised Pillar[5]arenes and Their Host‐Guest Complexes
Authors: Todee Bunyaporn , Sanae Patharaporn , Ruengsuk Araya , Janthakit Pattarapapa , Promarak Vinich , Tantirungrotechai Jonggol , Sukwattanasinitt Mongkol , Limpanuparb Taweetham , Harding David J. , Bunchuay Thanthapatra
Published: November 2023

Nucleophilic substitution of pertosylated pillar[5]arene (P‐OTs) with commercially available sulfur containing nucleophiles (KSCN, KSAc, and thiophenol), yields a series of sulfur‐functionalised pillar[5]arenes. DLS results and SEM images imply that these pillararene macrocycles self‐assemble in acetonitrile solution, while X‐ray crystallographic evidence suggests solvent‐dependent assembly in the solid state. The nature of the sulfur substituents decorating the rim of the pillararene controls binding affinities towards organic guest encapsulations within the cavity and dictates metal‐ion binding properties through the formation of favorable S−M2+ coordination bonds outside the cavity, as determined by 1H NMR and fluorescence spectroscopic experiments. Addition of a dinitrile guest containing a bis‐triazole benzene spacer (btn) induced formation of pseudorotaxane host‐guest complexes. Fluorescence emission signals from these discrete macrocycles were significantly attenuated in the presence of either Hg2+ or Cu2+ in solution. Analogous titrations utilizing the corresponding pseudorotaxanes alter the binding selectivity and improve fluorescence sensing sensitivity. In addition, preliminary liquid‐liquid extraction studies indicate that the macrocycles facilitate the transfer of Cu2+ from the aqueous to the organic phase in comparison to extraction without pillar[5]arene ligands.
Effects of different types of neonatal pain on somatosensory and cognitive development in male juvenile rats
Authors: Ling Ru , Wang Yueshu , Zheng Wen , Min Cuiting , Chen Mengying , Xia Dongqing , Li Xiaonan
Published: November 2023

Background

Premature infants are inevitably exposed to painful events, including repetitive procedures, inflammation, or mixed stimulation that may induce long‐term behavioral outcomes. Here, we set up three neonatal painful models to investigate their long‐term effect on somatosensation and cognition.

Methods

Three types of neonatal pain models in rat were set up. Rat pups were randomly assigned to four groups. The needling pain (NP) group received repetitive needle pricks on the paws from the day of birth (PD0) to postnatal day 7 (PD7) to mimic the diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. The inflammatory pain (IP) group received the injection of carrageenan into the left hindpaw at PD3 to induce IP in peripheral tissues. The mixed pain group received a combination of the NP and IP (NIP). The control (CON) group was untreated. We performed behavioral and biochemical testing of juvenile rats (PD21–PD26).

Results

The NIP group showed a longer hypersensitivity than the NP group, when given a secondary inflammatory stimulation. NP led to insensitivity to anxiety‐causing stimuli and impairment of fear memory both aggravated by NIP. NP reduced the expression of synapse‐related molecules (GluN1/PSD95/GFAP) in the medial prefrontal cortex, and NIP exacerbated this decrease. The corticosterone secretion in the NIP group increased after the behavioral task, compared with those in other three groups.

Conclusion

A combination of NP with inflammation occurring in the neonatal period might aggravate the adverse effects of each on somatosensory and cognitive development of rats, the mechanism of which might be associated with the increase of corticosterone secretion and the dysregulation of synaptic molecules.
The interplay between diversity climate and multiculturalism policy: How diversity contexts shape student collective voice
Authors: Gale Jessica , Phalet Karen
Published: November 2023

Existing research has largely acknowledged the importance of context in facilitating voice in culturally diverse institutions. However, most research has been situated empirically at the individual‐ rather than collective or context‐level. In the present research, multilevel modelling was used to examine the effect of school diversity context on students' perceived collective voice. Based on data from 4,690 students within 69 schools in Flanders, Belgium, we examined how multiculturalism policies as well as collectively perceived school climates of respect for diverse cultural groups may facilitate or hinder native and immigrant‐origin students' perceived collective voice. Results showed that diversity climates of respect were related to a greater perceived collective voice among all students, while multiculturalism policies had no effect. Nevertheless, an interplay between policy and climate showed that multiculturalism policy narrowed the gap in perceived collective voice between schools with stronger or weaker diversity climates. These results were robust to alternate indicators of climate and across minority/majority status groups. They raise the question of whether critical consciousness of unequal respect may be a first step in establishing socially just schools where multiculturalism policies value cultural identities and where all students can feel they have a collective voice. Future research directions are discussed. Please refer to the Supplementary Material section to find this article's Community and Social Impact Statement.
Advancing Gold Redox Catalysis: Mechanistic Insights, Nucleophilicity‐Guided Transmetalation, and Predictive Frameworks for the Oxidation of Aryl Gold(I) Complexes
Authors: Shiri Farshad , Ho Curtis C. , Bissember Alex C. , Ariafard Alireza
Published: November 2023

Gold redox catalysis, often facilitated by hypervalent iodine(III) reagents, offers unique reactivity but its progress is mainly hindered by an incomplete mechanistic understanding. In this study, we investigated the reaction between the gold(I) complexes [(aryl)Au(PR3)] and the hypervalent iodine(III) reagent PhICl2, both experimentally and computationally and provided an explanation for the formation of divergent products as the ligands bonded to the gold(I) center change. We tackled this essential question by uncovering an intriguing transmetalation mechanism that takes place between gold(I) and gold(III) complexes. We found that the ease of transmetalation is governed by the nucleophilicity of the gold(I) complex, [(aryl)Au(PR3)], with greater nucleophilicity leading to a lower activation energy barrier. Remarkably, transmetalation is mainly controlled by a single orbital – the gold dx2−y2 orbital. This orbital also has a profound influence on the reactivity of the oxidative addition step. In this way, the fundamental mechanistic basis of divergent outcomes in reactions of aryl gold(I) complexes with PhICl2 was established and these observations are reconciled from first principles. The theoretical model developed in this study provides a conceptual framework for anticipating the outcomes of reactions involving [(aryl)Au(PR3)] with PhICl2, thereby establishing a solid foundation for further advancements in this field.
Perfectionism in anorexia nervosa: Associations with clinical picture and personality traits
Authors: Longo Paola , Bevione Francesco , Amodeo Laura , Martini Matteo , Panero Matteo , Abbate‐Daga Giovanni
Published: November 2023

Although many researchers addressed the topics, no consistent data are currently available regarding the relationship between perfectionism and personality traits in anorexia nervosa (AN). The present study aimed to assess differences between high‐ and low‐perfectionism groups of patients with AN and to identify which variables show the strongest association with perfectionism. A group of inpatients with AN (n = 193) was recruited and completed a battery of self‐report questionnaires regarding eating‐related and general psychopathology, perfectionism, and personality. On the basis of perfectionism scores, patients were divided into high‐ and low‐perfectionism groups. High‐perfectionist patients displayed higher eating‐related and general psychopathology; higher depressive, cyclothymic, irritable and anxious temperament, and lower self‐directedness, cooperativeness and self‐esteem. Perfectionism was associated with the drive for thinness, cooperativeness, self‐esteem and anxious temperament. On the basis of the two personality traits most strongly correlated with perfectionism (i.e., cooperativeness and anxious temperament), patients could be correctly assigned to the high‐ or low‐perfectionism group by an algorithm. The study suggests that perfectionism in AN is related to eating psychopathology, especially of restrictive type, and personality features such as cooperativeness and anxious temperament. These findings confirm the important role of perfectionism in AN, not only concerning eating behaviour but personality as well.
A novel LCC‐C(CL)2 compensation network for efficient magnetically coupled resonant wireless power transfer for EV charging
Authors: Li Zhizhong , Zhang Haonan , Zhang Guidong , Yu Shenglong , Zhang Yichi , Long Shuqun
Published: November 2023

Due to the intrinsic limitations, for example, limited adjustment freedom, the traditional wireless power transfer (WPT) systems cannot maintain high efficiency under variable loading conditions. To well solve this problem, a family of general magnetically coupled resonant WPT (MCR‐WPT) compensation topologies composed of LCC‐C with an
‐stage LC structure, or LCC‐C(CL)
, is proposed in this paper. Under the guideline of the generalized structure, some existing topologies are derived for verification, with new topologies established with unique advantages. From the LCC‐C(CL)
structures, a suitable topology can be selected to achieve a desired design purpose, such as constant voltage transmission, constant current transmission, or high‐efficiency transmission. Prototype experiments and comparisons are conducted in this work, which demonstrate the effectiveness and applicability of the proposed LCC‐C(CL)
MCR‐WPT converter family and the parameter design method. Experimental results also show that the new topology can maintain high‐efficiency power transfer for a wide range of loads. Even under light loading conditions, the power transfer efficiency is 30% higher than the traditional benchmark topology. The proposed WPT approach will have wide applications for on‐road wireless electric vehicle charging.
Assessment of inter‐operator variability in peripheral monocyte subset gating strategy using flow cytometry in patients with suspected acute stroke
Authors: Heng Evelyne , Neuwirth Marie , Mas Floriane , Contant Geneviève , Mazighi Mikaël , Feriel Joffrey , Montpellier Bertrand , Brumpt Caren , Jourdi Georges , Curis Emmanuel , Siguret Virginie
Published: November 2023

Background

Innovative tools to reliably identify patients with acute stroke are needed. Peripheral monocyte subsets, that is, classical‐Mon1, intermediate‐Mon2, and non‐classical‐Mon3, with their activation marker expression analyzed using flow‐cytometry (FCM) could be interesting cell biomarker candidates.

Aim

To assess the inter‐operator variability in a new peripheral monocyte subset gating strategy using FCM in patients with suspected acute stroke.

Methods

In BOOST‐study (“Biomarkers‐algOrithm‐for‐strOke‐diagnoSis‐and Treatment‐resistance‐prediction,” NCT04726839), patients ≥18 years with symptoms suggesting acute stroke within the last 24 h were included. Blood was collected upon admission to emergency unit. FCM analysis was performed using the FACS‐CANTO‐II® flow‐cytometer and Flow‐Jo™‐software. Analyzed markers were CD45/CD91/CD14/CD16 (monocyte backbone) and CD62L/CD11b/HLA‐DR/CD86/CCR2/ICAM‐1/CX3CR1/TF (activation markers). Inter‐operator agreement (starting from raw‐data files) was quantified by the measure distribution and, for each patient, the coefficient of variation (CV).

Results

Three operators analyzed 20 patient blood samples. Median inter‐operator CVs were below the pre‐specified tolerance limits (10% [for Mon1 counts], 20% [Mon2, Mon3 counts], 15% [activation marker median‐fluorescence‐intensities]). We observed a slight, but systematic, inter‐operator effect. Overall, absolute inter‐operator differences in fractions of monocyte subsets were <0.03.

Conclusion

Our gating strategy allowed monocyte subset gating with an acceptable inter‐operator variability. Although low, the inter‐operator effect should be considered in monocyte data analysis of BOOST‐patients.
Review OCR letters concerning service animal policies
Authors: Lyerly Eric
Published: November 2023

The Office for Civil Rights has published several resolution agreements/letters of findings in 2023 involving discrimination against individuals with disabilities who use service animals. These letters can help postsecondary institutions identify common patterns of discrimination in service animal policies and help them avoid compliance issues in their own policies. This article will summarize the major 2023 OCR letters that address service animals, Section 504, and Title II.
Research shows Americans with disabilities are less likely to own digital devices
Authors: Lyerly Eric
Published: November 2023

Research from the Pew Research Center suggests that there is still a digital divide between individuals who have a disability and individuals who do not have a disability. Pew found that 81% of adults without a disability report owning a desktop or laptop computer. However, only 62% of adults with disabilities report computer ownership. Additionally, there was a 16% gap in smartphone ownership (72% of individuals with disabilities versus 88% of individuals without disabilities).
Retaliation
Authors: Lyerly Eric
Published: November 2023

An overview of the key topics faced by disability services providers with citations to noteworthy cases, statutes, regulations, and additional sources.
Nmes1 is a novel regulator of mucosal response influencing intestinal healing potential
Authors: Hamley Madeleine , Leyk Stephanie , Casar Christian , Liebold Imke , Jawazneh Amirah Al , Lanzloth Clarissa , Böttcher Marius , Haas Helmut , Richardt Ulricke , Rothlin Carla V. , Jacobs Thomas , Huber Samuel , Adlung Lorenz , Pelczar Penelope , Henao‐Mejia Jorge , Bosurgi Lidia
Published: November 2023

The initiation of tissue remodeling following damage is a critical step in preventing the development of immune‐mediated diseases. Several factors contribute to mucosal healing, leading to innovative therapeutic approaches for managing intestinal disorders. However, uncovering alternative targets and gaining mechanistic insights are imperative to enhance therapy efficacy and broaden its applicability across different intestinal diseases.

Here we demonstrate that Nmes1, encoding for Normal Mucosa of Esophagus‐Specific gene 1, also known as Aa467197, is a novel regulator of mucosal healing. Nmes1 influences the macrophage response to the tissue remodeling cytokine IL‐4 in vitro. In addition, using two murine models of intestinal damage, each characterized by a type 2‐dominated environment with contrasting functions, the ablation of Nmes1 results in decreased intestinal regeneration during the recovery phase of colitis, while enhancing parasitic egg clearance and reducing fibrosis during the advanced stages of Schistosoma mansoni infection. These outcomes are associated with alterations in CX3CR1+ macrophages, cells known for their wound‐healing potential in the inflamed colon, hence promising candidates for cell therapies.

All in all, our data indicate Nmes1 as a novel contributor to mucosal healing, setting the basis for further investigation into its potential as a new target for the treatment of colon‐associated inflammation.
Organocatalytic Synthesis of 2,3,4,9‐Tetrahydro‐1H‐carbazole Embedded Styrene Atropisomers
Authors: Parida Chandrakanta , Devi Minakshi , Chandra Pan Subhas
Published: November 2023

Herein we report the first synthesis of tetrahydrocarbazole embedded styrene atropisomers via the reaction between 1‐(aryl‐ethynyl)‐naphthalen‐2‐ol and 2,3,4,9‐tetrahydro‐1H‐carbazole. The reaction proceeds through in situ vinylidene ortho‐quinone methide (VQM) intermediate formation. The styrene derivatives were obtained in good to high yields with high diastereoselectivities with a catalytic amount of PTSA. A catalytic asymmetric version is also reported.
Stereo‐electroencephalography‐guided three‐dimensional radiofrequency thermocoagulation for mesial temporal lobe epilepsy with hippocampal sclerosis: A retrospective study with long‐term follow‐up
Authors: Li Kaiwei , Shi Jianwei , Wei Penghu , He Xiaosong , Shan Yongzhi , Zhao Guoguang
Published: November 2023

Objective

Stereo‐electroencephalography‐guided three‐dimensional radiofrequency thermocoagulation (SEEG‐3D RFTC) is a minimally invasive treatment for mesial temporal lobe epilepsy with hippocampal sclerosis (MTLE‐HS). This study aimed to investigate the long‐term prognosis after SEEG‐3D RFTC treatment in patients with MTLE‐HS.

Methods

This single‐center retrospective study included 28 patients with MTLE‐HS treated with SEEG‐3D RFTC from January 2016 to May 2018. Postoperative curative effects were evaluated using the Engel classification, and the patients were followed up for 5 years.

Results

The proportions of patients categorized as Engel I between 1 and 5 years after surgery were 72.41% (12 months after surgery), 67.86% (18 months after surgery), 62.07% (24 months after surgery), 50.00% (36 months after surgery), 42.86% (48 months after surgery), and 42.86% (60 months after surgery), respectively. Regarding long‐term efficacy, based on the Engel classification, SEEG‐3D RFTC showed room for improvement.

Significance

This was the first study to evaluate the efficacy of SEEG‐3D RFTC for MTLE‐HS with long‐term follow‐up. SEEG‐3D RFTC is a promising alternative for patients with MTLE‐HS.

Plain Language Summary

This study explored the potential of stereoelectroencephalography‐guided three‐dimensional radiofrequency thermocoagulation, a minimally invasive approach, for treating medial temporal lobe epilepsy with hippocampal sclerosis. Involving 28 patients, the research tracked the treatment’s success over five years using the Engel classification. Initial results were promising, with 72.41% of patients achieving the most favorable outcome (Engel I) at one year. While there was a gradual decrease in this proportion over time, 42.86% of patients maintained this positive outcome at five years, highlighting the treatment's potential for long‐term efficacy.
Derivation of generalized thermoelectric energy equations and the study of thermoelectric irreversible processes based on energy, exergy, and entransy analysis
Authors: Xiao Heng
Published: November 2023

Thermoelectric (TE) generation is becoming a valuable and promising research direction. Many researchers have carried out system analysis and performance optimization of thermoelectric technologies based on the generalized thermoelectric energy balance equations. However, it is assumed that TE legs have no heat exchange with the ambient except at the junctions of the hot and cold ends where heat flows in and out. Based on basic thermoelectric effects and fundamental theories of heat transfer, a detailed derivation of the revised generalized thermoelectric energy equations considering convective heat transfer between TE legs and the ambient has been carried out. Irreversible heat transfer processes have been analyzed by employing energy analysis based on the first law of thermodynamics and exergy analysis based on the second law of thermodynamics. The results show that convective heat transfer leads to a decrease in both energy and exergy efficiencies: the rate and magnitude of the decrease in exergy efficiency are greater than those of the decrease in energy efficiency. The exergy efficiency is relatively high despite the low energy efficiency in operation, revealing the features and advantages of thermoelectric generators (TEGs) in low‐grade energy utilization. For TEG efficient operation, the load resistance value should match the system's internal resistance, or at least be greater than that, to avoid a sharp drop in power output and efficiencies. In an attempt at theoretical analysis, the concept of entransy was first introduced into thermoelectric analysis, yielding two concise relational equations which reflect the intrinsic link between Carnot cycle efficiency, energy efficiency, exergy efficiency, and entransy flow transfer efficiency. The entransy analysis based on the index of entransy flow transfer efficiency, together with energy analysis and exergy analysis, may be a novel and valuable guideline for the operation and optimization of TEGs, which needs to be further investigated.
Bias and mean squared error in Mendelian randomization with invalid instrumental variables
Authors: Deng Lu , Fu Sheng , Yu Kai
Published: November 2023

Mendelian randomization (MR) is a statistical method that utilizes genetic variants as instrumental variables (IVs) to investigate causal relationships between risk factors and outcomes. Although MR has gained popularity in recent years due to its ability to analyze summary statistics from genome‐wide association studies (GWAS), it requires a substantial number of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) as IVs to ensure sufficient power for detecting causal effects. Unfortunately, the complex genetic heritability of many traits can lead to the use of invalid IVs that affect both the risk factor and the outcome directly or through an unobserved confounder. This can result in biased and imprecise estimates, as reflected by a larger mean squared error (MSE). In this study, we focus on the widely used two‐stage least squares (2SLS) method and derive formulas for its bias and MSE when estimating causal effects using invalid IVs. Using those formulas, we identify conditions under which the 2SLS estimate is unbiased and reveal how the independent or correlated pleiotropic effects influence the accuracy and precision of the 2SLS estimate. We validate these formulas through extensive simulation studies and demonstrate the application of those formulas in an MR study to evaluate the causal effect of the waist‐to‐hip ratio on various sleeping patterns. Our results can aid in designing future MR studies and serve as benchmarks for assessing more sophisticated MR methods.
The effects of low calorie, high protein diet on body composition, duration and sleep quality on obese adults: A randomized clinical trial
Authors: Javaheri Fatemeh Sadat Hashemi , Ostadrahimi A. R. , Nematy Mohsen , Arabi Seyyed Mostafa , Amini Mahnaz
Published: November 2023

Background and Aims

The effects of high‐protein diets on regulating sleep have received research attention in recent decades. However, no studies have examined the effects of these diets in obese adults. Therefore, this study was conducted to investigate the effects of low‐calorie high protein diets on sleep quality in obese adults.

Methods

This study is a randomized clinical trial conducted on 60 obese adults (BMI > 29.9 kg/m2) diagnosed with low‐quality sleep. All participants were given a diet with a 750‐calorie energy deficit. While the control group was given a normal diet, the intervention group received a diet with 30% more protein.

Results

The results showed a significant difference between the control group and intervention group with respect to sleep apnea at 30‐, 60‐, and 90‐day follow‐up (p < 0.01). Sleep quality, apnea‐hypopnea index (AHI), sleep latency (SL), and polysomnography were significantly different between the two groups (p < 0.05), showing an improvement in sleep quality and obstructive sleep apnea in the intervention group (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

This study shows that low‐calorie high‐protein diets can effectively improve apnea, sleep quality, and body composition indices in obese adults.
Seroconversion after SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccination is protective against severe COVID‐19 disease in heart transplant recipients
Authors: Kugler Szilvia , Vári Dorottya Katalin , Veres Dániel Sándor , Király Ákos , Teszák Tímea , Parázs Nóra , Tarjányi Zoltán , Drobni Zsófia , Szakál‐Tóth Zsófia , Prinz Gyula , Miheller Pál , Merkely Béla , Sax Balázs
Published: November 2023

Background

Heart transplant (HTX) recipients are prone to develop complications after severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) infection. Vaccination is often ineffective due to weaker immunogenicity. In this high‐volume single‐center study, we aimed to determine factors influencing seroconversion after vaccination and predictors of severe SARS‐CoV‐2 infection.

Methods

Two hundred twenty‐nine HTX recipients were enrolled. Type of the first two vaccine doses included messenger RNA (mRNA), vector, and inactivated vaccines. We carried out analyses on seroconversion after the second and third doses of vaccination and on severity of infection. Antispike protein SARS‐CoV‐2 immunoglobulin G (IgG) was measured after the second and third vaccines and serostatus was defined. Effect of the first two vaccine doses was studied on patients who did not suffer SARS‐CoV‐2 infection before antibody measurement (n = 175). The effectivity of the third vaccine was evaluated among seronegative recipients after the second vaccine (n = 53). Predictors for severe infection defined as pneumonia, hospitalization or death were assessed in all patients who contracted SARS‐CoV‐2 infection (n = 92).

Results

62% of the recipients became seropositive after the second vaccination. Longer time between HTX and vaccination (odds ratio [OR]: 2.35) and mRNA vaccine (OR: 4.83) were predictors of seroconversion. 58% of the nonresponsive patients became seropositive after receiving the third vaccine. Male sex increased the chance of IgG production after the third dose (OR: 5.65). Clinical course of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection was severe in 32%. Of all parameters assessed, only seropositivity before infection was proven to have a protective effect against severe infection (OR: 0.11).

Conclusions

We found that longer time since HTX, mRNA vaccine type, and male sex promoted seroconversion after SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccination in HTX recipients. Seropositivity—but not the number of vaccine doses—seemed to be protective against severe SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. Screening of HTX patients for anti‐SARS‐COV‐2 antibodies may help to identify patients at risk for severe infection.
Close‐packed layer spacing as a practical guideline for structure symmetry manipulation of IV‐VI/I‐V‐VI2 thermoelectrics
Authors: Jin Tao , Yang Long , Zhang Xinyue , Li Wen , Pei Yanzhong
Published: November 2023

The crystal‐structure symmetry in real space can be inherited in the reciprocal space, making high‐symmetry materials the top candidates for thermoelectrics due to their potential for significant electronic band degeneracy. A practical indicator that can quantitatively describe structural changes would help facilitate the advanced thermoelectric material design. In face‐centered cubic structures, the spatial environment of the same crystallographic plane family is isotropic, such that the distances between the close‐packed layers can be derived from the atomic distances within the layers. Inspired by this, the relationship between inter‐ and intra‐layer geometric information can be used to compare crystal structures with their desired cubic symmetry. The close‐packed layer spacing was found to be a practical guideline of crystal structure symmetry in IV‐VI chalcogenides and I‐V‐VI2 ternary semiconductors, both of which are historically important thermoelectrics. The continuous structural evolution toward high symmetry can be described by the layer spacing when temperature or/and composition change, which is demonstrated by a series of pristine and alloyed thermoelectric materials in this work. The layer‐spacing‐based guideline provides a quantitative pathway for manipulating crystal structures to improve the electrical and thermal properties of thermoelectric materials.
Cryptic exon activation caused by a novel deep‐intronic splice‐altering variant in Becker muscular dystrophy
Authors: Xie Zhiying , Lu Yunlong , Liu Chang , Sun Chengyue , Yu Jiaxi , Ling Chen , Luan Xinghua , Wang Wei , Wang Li , Liang Yanhong , Luo Qianbo , Meng Lingchao , Wang Zhaoxia , Yuan Yun
Published: November 2023

Background

An accurate genetic diagnosis of Becker muscular dystrophy (BMD) can be sometimes challenging due to deep intronic DMD variants. Here, we report on the genetic diagnosis of a BMD patient with a novel deep‐intronic splice‐altering variant in DMD.

Methods

The index case was a 3.8‐year‐old boy who was suspected of having a diagnosis of BMD based on his clinical, muscle imaging, and pathological features. Routine genomic detection approaches did not detect any disease‐causing variants in him. Muscle‐derived DMD mRNA studies, followed by genomic Sanger sequencing and in silico bioinformatic analyses, were performed in the patient.

Results

DMD mRNA studies detected a cryptic exon‐containing transcript and normally spliced DMD transcript in the patient. The cryptic exon‐containing transcript encoded a frameshift and premature termination codon (NP_003997.1:p.[=,Asp2740Valfs*52]). Further genomic Sanger sequencing and bioinformatic analysis identified a novel deep‐intronic splice‐altering variant in DMD (c.8217 + 23338A > G). The novel variant strengthened a cryptic donor splice site and activated a cryptic acceptor splice site in the deep‐intronic region of DMD intron 55, resulting in the activation of a new dystrophin cryptic exon found in the patient.

Conclusion

Our case report expands the genetic spectrum of BMD and highlights the essential role of deep‐intronic cryptic exon‐activating variants in genetically unsolved BMD patients.
Predicted lean body mass trajectories, and cancer risk and cancer‐specific and all‐cause mortality: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Liu Chenan , Zhang Qingsong , Liu Tong , Zhang Qi , Song Mengmeng , Ruan Guotian , Lin Shiqi , Wang Ziwen , Zheng Xin , Chen Yue , Zhang Heyang , Ge Yizhong , Xie Hailun , Shi Jinyu , Deng Li , Wu Shouling , Shi Hanping
Published: November 2023

Background

Although many studies have investigated the association between body composition, cancer risk and mortality, predicting these risks through a single body composition measurement undoubtedly increases the limitations of the study. Few studies have explored the association between the trajectory of changes in body composition and the risk of cancer and death. We aimed to explore the association of predicted lean mass trajectories with cancer risk, cancer‐specific mortality and all‐cause mortality.

Methods

The participants in this study were all from the Kailuan cohort, a prospective, periodic, resurvey cohort study initiated in 2006. Latent mixture modelling was used to identify predicted lean mass trajectories for 2006–2010. The hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) of the Cox proportional hazard models were used to describe the association between predicted lean mass trajectories and cancer risk and cancer‐specific and all‐cause mortality during follow‐up (2010–2021).

Results

A total of 44 374 participants (average age, 53.01 ± 11.41 years, 78.99% men and 21.01% women) were enrolled in this study. Five distinct trajectories were identified: low‐stable (n = 12 060), low‐increasing (n = 8027), moderately stable‐decreasing (n = 4725), moderately stable‐increasing (n = 8053) and high‐stable (n = 11 509). During the 11‐year follow‐up period, 2183 cancer events were recorded. After adjusting for age, predicted fat mass in 2010, sex, BMI, sedentary, physical activity, smoke, alcohol use, salt consumption, high‐fat diet, high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein, serum creatinine, family history of tumour, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, compared with the low‐stable group, participants in the low‐increasing group (HR = 0.851, 95% CI, 0.748–0.969), moderately stable‐increasing group (HR = 0.803, 95% CI, 0.697–0.925) and high‐stable group (HR = 0.770, 95% CI, 0.659–0.901) had a lower cancer risk, but not in the moderately stable‐decreasing group (HR = 0.864, 95% CI, 0.735–1.015). Compared with the low‐stable group, the risk of cancer‐specific mortality was reduced by 25.4% (8.8–38.9%), 36.5% (20.3–49.4%) and 35.4% (17.9–49.2%), and the risk of all‐cause mortality was reduced by 24.2% (16.9–30.8%), 37.0% (30.0–43.2%) and 47.4% (41.0–53.1%) in the low‐increasing, moderately stable‐increasing group and high‐stable groups, respectively.

Conclusions

Predicted lean mass trajectories may be closely associated with cancer risk and cancer‐specific and all‐cause mortality. Regular monitoring of body composition is necessary.
Superior neutralizing response after first versus second SARS‐CoV‐2 infection in fully vaccinated individuals
Authors: Rivas Gonzalo , Labiod Nuria , Luczkowiak Joanna , Lasala Fátima , Rolo Marta , Mancheño‐Losa Mikel , Rial‐Crestelo David , Lora‐Tamayo Jaime , Pérez‐Rivilla Alfredo , Folgueira María Dolores , Delgado Rafael
Published: November 2023

Currently, the majority of the population has been vaccinated against COVID‐19 and/or has experienced SARS‐CoV‐2 infection either before or after vaccination. The immunological response to repeated episodes of infections is not completely clear. We measured SARS‐CoV‐2 specific neutralization titers by a pseudovirus assay after BA.1 infection and RBD‐specific immunoglobulin G (IgG), immunoglobulin A (IgA), and immunoglobulin M (IgM) in a cohort of COVID‐19 uninfected and triple vaccinated individuals (breakthrough infection group, BTI) as compared with those previously infected by SARS‐CoV‐2 (reinfection group, REI) who underwent identical vaccination schedule. SARS‐CoV‐2 specific neutralizing response after BA.1 infection was significantly higher in the BTI group as compared with the REI. Furthermore, neutralization titers in REI were not significant different from convalescent non reinfected controls. RBD‐specific IgG and IgA, but not IgM, were also significantly higher in BTI as compared with REI. Our results show that the first episode of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection induces a significant increase in neutralizing titers in triple vaccinated individuals and that previous SARS‐CoV‐2 infection compromise significantly the neutralization response induced by reinfection, even by divergent SARS‐CoV‐2 variants and at least up to 2 years postinfection, suggesting a fundamental limitation in inducing effective booster through the intranasal route in previously infected individuals.
Dielectric modulated organic thin film transistor trench biosensor for label‐free detection: Modeling and simulation analysis
Authors: Bhandari Sheetal , Dhamale Triveni D. , Kawade Rupali K. , Dhake Dipali N. , Wadhwa Girish
Published: November 2023

In the present paper, a biosensor is proposed with a split gate dielectric modulated bottom gate top contact organic thin‐film transistor. A cavity is marked below gate metal for enhancing sensitivity in biomedical applications. The organic thin‐film transistors‐based biosensors have shown applications over advanced biosensing platforms due to their intrinsic ability to transfer and amplify received biological signals into respective electrical signals. Immobilizing the biomolecules inside the cavity generates changes in surface potential. The analysis is carried out via different performance metrics that directly affect device electrical characteristics such as a change in spacer length applied voltages ( and ) as well as channel material. After modeling, the device output characteristics are compared corresponding to simulated outcomes that validated our results. The proposed model structure is categorized by dividing it into different sections. Each categorized section's surface potential is further evaluated via 1‐ and 2‐dimensional Poisson's equation. The simulations to recreate biomolecules in terms of dielectric constant and charge density are done in the Silvaco ATLAS tool. The maximum value of sensitivity of proposed biosensor is around 300 in the case of charged biomolecule detection.
Tunable Kerker Scattering in a Self‐Coupled Polaritonic Metasurface
Authors: Shen Fuhuan , Zhou Yaoqiang , Ma Jingwen , Zheng Jiapeng , Wang Jianfang , Chen Zefeng , Xu Jianbin
Published: November 2023

The strong coupling between electronic transitions and resonant cavity modes, facilitated by coherent energy transfer, presents unprecedented opportunities for tailoring the photoelectronic properties of constituent components. Here, the concept of Kerker effect is leveraged to demonstrate the dynamic control of scattering directionality in dielectric nanostructures by tuning the exciton‐photon coupling. First, theoretical evidence for a significant modification of the scattering directionality of a dielectric metastructure engineered by excitonic polaritons is provided. As a proof of concept, self‐coupled metasurfaces composed of bulk MoS2, which exhibit a forward/backward scattering ratio up to 20, are constructed. Importantly, tunable directionality is achieved by thermally controlling the excitonic coupling to the Mie modes. The simulated results are in good agreement with the experimental measurements, and the subsequent multipole decompositions effectively elucidate the underlying mechanism, attributed to the interplay between electric and magnetic dipole modes that are modified by excitons. The findings shed light on the control of light flow in the far field through coherent light–matter interactions, thereby opening up numerous possibilities for active optical antennas and quantum emitters on a nanoscale.
Plural valuation in southwestern Ethiopia: Disaggregating values associated with ecosystems in a smallholder landscape
Authors: Brück Maria , Schultner Jannik , Negash Birhanu Bekele , Damu Dadi Feyisa , Abson David J.
Published: November 2023

Recognizing the diversity of preferences for, and values ascribed to, ecosystems in decision‐making can help to realize more sustainable and equitable policies for transformative change.

The goal of this paper was to assess how rankings of ecosystem products (i.e. their relative importance in people's lives) relate to people's individual characteristics, their social–ecological context and the values they ascribe to each ecosystem product.

In our case study in southwestern Ethiopia, we considered 11 ecosystem products and four value types (direct use, exchange, relational, intrinsic). We used descriptive statistics, hierarchical clustering and chi‐square tests of independence to analyse the data.

On average, maize and teff were ranked as most important, and direct use and relational value were the most important value types. Beneficiaries often ascribed multiple values to each ecosystem product, and direct use and relational values better explained overall importance rankings than exchange or intrinsic values.

Five groups of beneficiaries, who each prioritized a different set of ecosystem products, differed in their occupation, and in their social–ecological context, in terms of the villages they lived in and the ecosystem products they produced. Beneficiaries in each of the five groups ascribed different value types to their prioritized ecosystem products, and these did not always align with the value types that were generally judged most important by the group.

We recommend that sustainable landscape management should reflect the diversity of people's value ascription, including non‐exchange values.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Internal migration in Chile and mental health in migrant‐sending communities
Authors: Cazzuffi Chiara
Published: November 2023

Empirical research on migration has mostly concentrated on its economic impacts, with growing but limited focus on its mental health impacts in migrant‐sending communities. Existing studies mainly concentrate on the mental health of remaining household members, mostly establishing cross‐sectional correlations, with mixed findings depending on individual and contextual characteristics. Studies that address potential endogeneity are few and tend to find no significant causal impact of migration on the mental health of remaining family members. However, migration may affect not only the remaining household members but also the entire sending community by changing its demographic, social and economic composition. The aim of this paper is to analyse the overall impact of migration on the mental health of sending communities, considering both the impact of having a migrant family member and of living in a community experiencing net emigration. The paper addresses potential endogeneity through an instrumental variable approach, controlling for confounding factors and examines mental health outcomes beyond depression and stress, assessing also psychosocial difficulties and self‐efficacy. It uses nationally representative data from the 2017 National Health Survey in Chile, a country characterised by high internal mobility, significant mental health issues and concentration of mental healthcare provision in large urban centres. The study finds that living in net emigration municipalities increases the probability of experiencing a major depressive episode, psychosocial difficulties and low self‐efficacy. Results are robust to controlling for endogeneity using past migration rates as an instrument for current migration rates. These findings suggest that smaller, net emigration communities require policy attention, and in particular better mental healthcare provision, to avoid increasing the prevalence of mental health problems and the treatment gap between larger and smaller communities in Chile.