bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A longitudinal study of psychological distress during and after COVID‐19 restrictions in caregivers of children with intellectual disability in the UK
Authors: Gillespie‐Smith Karri , Goodall Karen , McConachie Doug , Van Herwegen Jo , Crawford Hayley , Ballantyne Carrie , Richards Caroline , Gallagher‐Mitchell Thomas , Moss Joanna , Khawam Grace , Outhwaite Laura , Marriott Emily , Steindorsdottir Freyja , Christie Hope
Published: September 2024

Introduction

The current study explored longitudinally whether child behaviours that challenge and caregiver coping strategies was associated with psychological distress in caregivers of children with and without intellectual disability during and after lockdown.

Method

An online survey was completed by caregivers who had children with and without intellectual disability during Time Period 1 (T1; August‐December 2021, n = 171) and then again during Time Period 2 (T2; January–March 2022, n = 109).

Results

Child behaviours that challenge and caregiver psychological distress reduced in T2 compared to T1. Child behaviours that challenge, emotion focussed coping and avoidant coping was associated distress at both time points in caregivers of children with and without intellectual disabilities.

Conclusions

The study shows that both child behaviours that challenge and caregiver psychological distress reduced as lockdown ended. However, caregiver coping strategies may have contributed to psychological distress, which has potential implications for interventions and support for caregivers.
New Subependymal Enhancement After Radiation Therapy in High‐Grade Glioma: Utilizing Morphological Features and DSC Perfusion MRI in Differentiate Progression and Post‐Radiation Changes
Authors: Choi Kyu Sung , Hwang Inpyeong , Park Chul Kee , Park Sung Hye , Choi Seung Hong
Published: September 2024

Background

The specific patterns of subependymal enhancement (SE) that frequently occur as radiation‐induced changes in high‐grade gliomas following radiotherapy are often overlooked. Perfusion MRI may offer a diagnostic clue.

Purpose

To distinguish between radiation‐induced SE and progression in adult high‐grade diffuse gliomas after standard treatment.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Population

Ninety‐four consecutive high‐grade diffuse glioma patients (mean age, 55 ± 14 years; 54 [57.4%] males) with new SE identified in follow‐up MRI after completion of surgery plus chemoradiation: progression (N = 74) vs. regression (N = 20).

Field Strength/Sequence

3 T, gradient‐echo dynamic susceptibility contrast‐enhanced MRI, 3D gradient‐echo contrast‐enhanced T1‐weighted imaging.

Assessment

To differentiate between radiation changes and progression in SE evaluation, multivariable logistic regression was performed using significant variables among SE appearance interval, IDH mutation, morphological features, and rCBV. Cox regression was performed to predict the tumor progression. For the added value of the rCBV, a log‐rank test was conducted between the multivariable logistic regression models with and without the rCBV.

Statistical Tests

Logistic regression, Cox regression, receiver operating characteristic analysis, log‐rank test.

Results

38.3% (36/94) patients had first specific SE (9.2 ± 9.5 months after surgery), which disappeared in 21.3% (20/94) after 5.8 ± 5.8 months after initial appearance on post‐radiation MRI. IDH mutation, elongated, small lesions with lower rCBV tended to regress: IDH mutation, elongation, diameter, and rCBV_p95; odds ratio, 0.32, 1.92, 1.70, and 2.47, respectively. Qualitative evaluation of shape revealed that thin and curvilinear‐shaped SE tended to regress, indicating a significant correlation with quantitative shape features (r = 0.31). In Cox regression, rCBV and lesion shape were significant (hazard ratio = 1.09 and 0.54, respectively). For sub‐centimeter lesions, the rCBV showed added value in predicting outcomes (area under the curve, 0.873 vs. 0.836; log‐rank test).

Data Conclusion

Smaller, elongated lesions with lower rCBV and IDH mutation are associated with regression when differentiating radiation changes from progression in high‐grade glioma with post‐radiotherapy SE.

Evidence Level

3

Technical Efficacy

Stage 2
Slow left atrial conduction velocity in the anterior wall calculated by electroanatomic mapping predicts atrial fibrillation recurrence after catheter ablation—Systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Lukito Antonia Anna , Raffaello Wilson Matthew , Pranata Raymond
Published: September 2024

Background

This study aimed to investigate and perform diagnostic test meta‐analysis on whether slow left atrial conduction velocity (LACV) in the anterior wall calculated by electroanatomic mapping predicts atrial fibrillation (AF) recurrence after catheter ablation.

Methods

Extensive literature search was performed on PubMed, SCOPUS, and EuropePMC up to June 5, 2024. The exposure group included AF patients with slow LACV in the anterior wall, while the control group included AF patients without slow LACV in the anterior wall. Slow LACV in the anterior wall was defined as LACV below study‐specific cut‐off points in m/s, measured by invasive electroanatomic mapping. The primary outcome of this study was AF recurrence, defined as AF/Atrial Flutter/Atrial Tachyarrhythmias lasting over 30 s at least 3 months after the blanking period postablation.

Results

This systematic review and meta‐analysis included seven studies, involving a sample size of 1428 patients with mean follow‐up duration were 13 months. Patients with AF recurrence has slower LACV in the anterior wall (mean difference − 0.16 m/s [−0.18, −0.15], p < .001). Slow LACV in the anterior wall defined as LACV below 0.70–0.88 m/s was associated with increased AF (adjusted OR 3.41 [1.55, 7.50], p = .002). Slow LACV in the anterior wall has an AUROC of 0.80 [0.76–0.83], sensitivity of 70% [52, 84], specificity of 76% [67, 83], positive likelihood ratio of 2.9 [2.3, 3.6], negative likelihood ratio of 0.39 [0.25, 0.63] for predicting AF recurrence postablation.

Conclusion

Slow LACV in the anterior wall was associated with AF recurrence after catheter ablation.
Ultrasound Features of Nodular Hidradenoma
Authors: Feng Ming‐Chu , Liang Jian‐Feng , Wang Jing , Dai Jian‐Cheng , Xu Wan‐Mei
Published: September 2024

Objective

The aim of this study was to systematically investigate the ultrasonographic features of nodular hidradenoma (NH).

Methods

A retrospective analysis was used to systematically summarize the ultrasonographic data of 27 patients diagnosed with NH by surgical pathology, including 13 eccrine nodular hidradenomas (ENH) and 14 apocrine nodular hidradenomas (ANH).

Results

All instances of NH presented as solitary, well‐defined lesions that infiltrated the dermis and subcutaneous fat layer, characterized by a heterogeneous hypoechoic internal solid component on ultrasound imaging. Color Doppler ultrasound revealed blood flow signals of Grade 2 or higher within 74% (20/27) of the lesions. Solid + cystic (cystic >50%) NH (14/27, 51.4%) were typically large and predominantly had an oval shape (11/14, 78.5%). Their distinctive sonographic features included the presence of inner septa within the cystic area (8/14, 57.1%), “snow falling” sign (7/14, 50%), or “fluid–fluid level” sign (7/14, 50%). Solid + cystic (cystic ≤50%) NH exhibited a lobulated morphology in all instances (5/5, 100%). No inner septa, “snow falling” sign or “fluid–fluid level” sign was observed within the cystic regions. The solid NH (8/27, 29.7%) morphology predominantly featured lobulation (6 out of 8, 75%). Ultrasound analysis revealed distinct differences between ENH and ANH. ENH were more lobulated, while ANH were predominantly oval. ANH were mainly solid + cystic (cystic >50%), whereas ENH were mostly solid. Inner septa, “snow falling” sign, and “fluid–fluid level” sign frequencies were similar in both groups, correlating more with cystic‐solid composition than pathological subtype.

Conclusions

Ultrasonographic features of lobulated morphology and the presence of inner septa, “snow falling” sign or “fluid–fluid level” sign in the cystic region provide strong support for the diagnosis of NH.
Gouy Phase Induced Optical Skyrmion Transformation in Diffraction Limited Scale
Authors: Chen Jian , Shen Xi , Zhan Qiwen , Qiu Cheng‐Wei
Published: September 2024

Optical skyrmions are topologically stable quasiparticles that can be constructed with electric field, spin angular momentum, polarization Stokes vector, pseudospin, etc. In this letter, both theoretical and experimental studies are carried out to reveal the role of Gouy phase in the topology transformation during the tight focusing of Stokes skyrmions. The Stokes skyrmionic beam can be constructed by superposing two orthogonally polarized components with orthogonal spatial modes. The Gouy phase produced in the focused field depends on the orbital angular momentum carried by the high order mode component of the incident Stokes skyrmionic beam. While the beam size of the focused field is diffraction limited, the variation of the Stokes vectors in the skyrmion topology is in the sub‐diffraction limited scale. The presented results shed light on the understanding of the topology transformation between the incident and the tightly focused fields, paving the way for engineering the optical skyrmions in micro‐nano scale and their applications in information processing, quantum technology, metrology, etc.
Improving the Performance of Machining Parameters in the Turning Process of Inconel 686 by Using Cryo‐MQL Method
Authors: Tazehkandi Ahmadreza Hosseini , Shabgard Mohammadreza , Tutunchi Abolfazl
Published: September 2024

Regarding its wide range of applications in different industries, such as oil and gas, and for manufacturing equipment used to control pollution and recycle industrial wastes, Inconel 686 turning process is highly important. The alloy is highly resistant to high temperatures and corrosion, and thus it can preserve its properties at high temperatures. Due to its low heat transfer coefficient and work hardening during operation, Inconel 686 is considered a difficult‐to‐cut material, and hence, turning Inconel 686 is challenged with major limitations regarding input parameter level and cutting fluid and issues such as reduced surface quality. The input parameter level and cutting fluid limitations might severely harm the environment and humans, decrease the machining efficiency and keep cleaner production goals out of reach. Novel cooling methods such as cryo‐MQL can contribute to achieving cleaner production goals. Cooling methods improve the machining performance and prohibit any damage to the surface integrity. In this study, cryo‐MQL, along with carbide‐coated tools and biodegradable vegetable oil, was adopted. The efficiency and success rate of cryo‐MQL were evaluated by comparing the results with those of MQL and wet methods. A wide range of output parameters, such as residual stresses, cutting zone temperature, cutting forces, tool wear, surface smoothness, surface defects and micro‐hardness, were assessed by changing the cutting speed and feed rate. The results indicated that cryo‐MQL could reduce the cutting forces, tool wear rate, cutting zone temperature and residual stresses while improving the surface quality. Moreover, environmental concerns were completely dealt with. Due to the increased possibility of higher input parameter levels, the time and cost of the cutting process were significantly reduced.
Efficiently Fabricated Core‐Sheath Piezoelectric Sensor Based on PVDF Microfibrillar Bundle
Authors: Shi Jiulong , Peng Fei , Shan Tingting , Guo Juan , Gao Chaojun , Zheng Guoqiang
Published: September 2024

With the rapid development of information technology (e.g., Internet of Things (IoT) and artificial intelligence (AI)), piezoelectric sensor (i.e., piezoelectric nanogenerator, PENG) receives an increasing number attention in the field of self‐powered wearable devices. Taking piezoelectric fiber as an example, it shows promising application for wearable devices owing to its light weight and high flexibility compared with block electronic devices. However, it still remains a challenge to fabricate low‐cost and high‐performance piezoelectric fiber via a large‐scale but efficient method. In this study, via extrusion molding and leaching, a core‐sheath piezoelectric sensor is facilely fabricated, whose core and sheath layer are respectively slender steel wire (i.e., electrode) and PVDF microfibrillar bundle (PMB) (i.e., piezoelectric layer). Such piezoelectric sensor shows decent output performance in both pressing (12.3 V) and bending (0.32 V) mode. Meanwhile, it possesses sensitive stress responsiveness when serving for self‐powered sensing. Furthermore, such piezoelectric sensors can realize wearable signal transmission and human motion monitoring, showing promising potential for wearable devices in the future. This work proposes a large‐scale but efficient method for fabricating high‐performance PVDF microfibril based piezoelectric fiber, opening a new pathway to develop self‐powered sensors following the concept of polymer “structuring” processing.
How to address enterprise collusion in falsifying carbon emission data: A game theory analysis
Authors: Sun Yong , Yang Xinqi , Wu Runtian , Gong Guangxiang , Lei Tianjie
Published: September 2024

Falsification of carbon emissions data poses a significant challenge to the integrity of the carbon trading market. Addressing this issue requires a comprehensive strategy involving various stakeholders. This paper focuses on collusive behavior in carbon emissions data falsification. An evolutionary game model is established to illustrate the interactions between local governments, carbon‐emitting enterprises, and third‐party carbon verification agencies. The stability of the evolutionary game and its conditions are analyzed, revealing the impact of regulatory penalties, credit losses, and awareness of responsibility. This study proposes a management framework tailored for this tripartite game, providing valuable insights for policy formulation.
Carbon trading price and carbon performance of high energy‐intensive enterprises
Authors: Feng Yu , Lei Yutao
Published: September 2024

Separating the relationship between the environment and the economy and simply discussing the impact of carbon pricing on corporate carbon emissions may lead to the “green paradox”. That is, environmental policies aimed at reducing emissions would result in an increase in carbon emissions. To remedy this shortcoming, scholars have proposed the concept of “carbon performance”. With the growing interest in carbon performance, this study investigates the relationship between carbon trading price and enterprise carbon performance, which is still unknown in the existing literature. Based on the panel data of high energy‐intensive (HEIs) listed enterprises in China from 2013 to 2021, we find a positive and significant relationship between carbon trading price and carbon performance. In the components, we find that the carbon performance enhancement effect is stronger for high industry competition, state‐owned enterprises and large‐scale enterprises. In addition, to explore the impact of external influences on the relationship, we select financing constraints and environmental uncertainty as moderating variables. This research provides new insights to enhance the carbon performance of HEIs, as well as experiences and lessons for the construction of China's carbon emissions trading market.
Discovery of β‐nitrostyrene derivatives as potential quorum sensing inhibitors for biofilm inhibition and antivirulence factor therapeutics against Serratia marcescens
Authors: Wang Jiang , Yang Jingyi , Durairaj Pradeepraj , Wang Wei , Wei Dongyan , Tang Shi , Liu Haiqing , Wang Dayong , Jia Ai‐Qun
Published: September 2024

Quorum sensing (QS) inhibition has emerged as a promising target for directed drug design, providing an appealing strategy for developing antimicrobials, particularly against infections caused by drug‐resistant pathogens. In this study, we designed and synthesized a total of 33 β‐nitrostyrene derivatives using 1‐nitro‐2‐phenylethane (NPe) as the lead compound, to target the facultative anaerobic bacterial pathogen Serratia marcescens. The QS‐inhibitory effects of these compounds were evaluated using S. marcescens NJ01 and the reporter strain Chromobacterium violaceum CV026. Among the 33 new β‐nitrostyrene derivatives, (E)‐1‐methyl‐4‐(2‐nitrovinyl)benzene (m‐NPe, compound 28) was proven to be a potent inhibitor that reduced biofilm formation of S. marcescens NJ01 by 79%. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) results revealed that treatment with m‐NPe (50 μg/ml) not only enhanced the susceptibility of the formed biofilms but also disrupted the architecture of biofilms by 84%. m‐NPe (50 μg/ml) decreased virulence factors in S. marcescens NJ01, reducing the activity of protease, prodigiosin, and extracellular polysaccharide (EPS) by 36%, 72%, and 52%, respectively. In S. marcescens 4547, the activities of hemolysin and EPS were reduced by 28% and 40%, respectively, outperforming the positive control, vanillic acid (VAN). The study also found that the expression levels of QS‐ and biofilm‐related genes (flhD, fimA, fimC, sodB, bsmB, pigA, pigC, and shlA) were downregulated by 1.21‐ to 2.32‐fold. Molecular dynamics analysis showed that m‐NPe could bind stably to SmaR, RhlI, RhlR, LasR, and CviR proteins in a 0.1 M sodium chloride solution. Importantly, a microscale thermophoresis (MST) test revealed that SmaR could be a target protein for the screening of a quorum sensing inhibitor (QSI) against S. marcescens. Overall, this study highlights the efficacy of m‐NPe in suppressing the virulence factors of S. marcescens, identifying it as a new potential QSI and antibiofilm agent capable of restoring or improving antimicrobial drug sensitivity.
Predictors of mortality post‐gastrostomy in motor neuron disease patients
Authors: Yang Jie , Zhao Yun , Soares Mario , Needham Merrilee , Begley Andrea , Calton Emily
Published: September 2024

Introduction/Aims

Motor neuron disease (MND) is a progressive neurodegenerative condition with a limited life expectancy. There is very little data on mortality and its associated factors beyond 30 days following gastrostomy. We explored the demographic, clinical, and nutritional predictors for early mortality at 30, 90, and 180 days following gastrostomy in these patients.

Methods

This was a retrospective study involving 94 MND patients in Western Australia who underwent gastrostomy between 2015 and 2021. Patients were divided into two groups based on mortality at 30, 90, and 180 days post‐gastrostomy. T‐test (or Mann–Whitney), chi‐square test and Fisher's exact test were used for detecting between‐group differences in various factors. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with post‐gastrostomy mortality at 90 and 180 days.

Results

No mortality was attributable to gastrostomy‐related complications. Lower forced vital capacity (FVC) (p = .039) and greater weight loss (%) (p = .022) from diagnosis to gastrostomy were observed in those who died within 30 days post‐gastrostomy. Older age (p = .022), male sex (p = .041), lower FVC (p = .04), requiring but not tolerating noninvasive ventilation (p = .035), and greater weight loss (%) (p = .012) were independent predictors of 90‐day post‐gastrostomy mortality. However, only older age (p = .01) and greater weight loss (p = .009) were predictors of mortality at 180 days post‐gastrostomy.

Discussion

Our data indicated that mortality at 90 and 180 days was influenced by the weight loss (%) from diagnosis to gastrostomy, highlighting the importance of nutritional care in the MND population. Gastrostomy placement prior to substantial weight loss may reduce the risk of weight loss‐associated mortality and warrants further investigation.
Who Cares About Nonprofit Reputation: Individual Differences in the Relationship Between Nonprofit Reputation and Charitable Giving
Authors: Peng Shuyang , Bamrick Tierney A. , Kim Mirae
Published: September 2024

Our study examined how individual characteristics shape the way different dimensions of nonprofit reputation impact charitable giving decisions. We used data from a 2 × 2 × 2 full factorial survey experiment and operationalized reputation in three dimensions: financial efficiency, media visibility, and accreditation status. First, our findings show that information about high financial efficiency leads to increased donations from individuals who are older, White, or have higher levels of education, but fewer donations from individuals who are more religious or employed in the nonprofit sector. Second, information about accreditation status tends to drive more donations from older individuals but fewer donations from those who are more religious or conservative. The results underscore the significant role of individual differences in explaining the effects of nonprofit reputation on charitable giving decisions. Moreover, our study offers practical insights into how information regarding nonprofit reputation can be strategically utilized to solicit donations and educate donors.
The socio‐cultural contexts shaping health‐seeking behaviours among community members regarding childhood cancer in Tanzania: A qualitative study
Authors: Sanga Erica Samson , Mbata Doris D. , Msoka Elizabeth Francis , Mchome Zaina , Karia Francis P. , Pollak Kathryn I. , Robles Joanna M. , Schroeder Kristin
Published: September 2024

Background

Timely diagnosis of childhood cancer, early hospital presentation and completion of treatment significantly improve outcomes. Unfortunately, in Tanzania, thousands of children die of cancer each year without ever being diagnosed or treated. To reduce childhood death from cancer, it is important to understand the social‐cultural context, values and beliefs that influence healthcare‐seeking behaviours among the Tanzanian community.

Methods

This was a cross‐sectional qualitative study conducted in Mwanza, Kilimanjaro and Dar‐es‐Salaam regions between March and June 2021. We purposively selected community members aged ≥18 years from three rural and three urban settings to participate in seven focus group discussions (each with eight to 12 respondents). The participants were from communities without any affiliation to the treatment of children with cancer or treatment facilities. We transcribed, coded and analyzed data using a thematic‐content approach with the support of NVIVO 12 software.

Results

Many had heard of breast or cervical cancer; however, most were unaware of childhood cancer. Adults believe that cancer in children is caused by witchcraft and cannot be cured by modern medicines available at hospitals. These beliefs lead parents to first seek care from traditional healers, which hence delay presentation to the hospital. Other community concerns included the cost of transportation, investigation‐related costs, and the long duration of treatment. These have an influence on treatment adherence leading to seeking alternative treatment, such as spiritual or traditional treatment.

Conclusion

Low community awareness, late hospital presentation, and treatment abandonment remain a challenge in childhood cancer in most parts of Tanzania. Belief about childhood cancer being a result of witchcraft and superstition contributes to limited health‐seeking behaviours. Cultural and contextually relevant awareness campaign interventions are needed to increase cancer knowledge in Tanzanian communities.
Effect of glass fiber and polyester thickness on the ballistic velocity limit of glass fiber reinforced plastics
Authors: Lei Di , Wang Jie , Qiao Yakun , Nie Shuyan , Wei Zhen , Gong Liangfei , Wang Jianmin , Liu Zhanfang
Published: September 2024

Glass fiber reinforced plastics (GFRPs) is a key material for the outer protecting layer of ships as well as for energy storage tanks. Its ballistic and blast resistance is closely related to the inclusion structure of its glass fiber and polyester matrix, however, the related detailed studies have not been reported. In this paper, ballistic shooting tests and finite element simulations are both employed to investigate the ballistic limit velocities (V50) of GFRPs and reveal the effects of glass fiber layers and the polyester matrix thickness on the V50. The results show that the V50 of GFRPs is essentially linearly related to the thickness of the target plate for a given number of glass fiber layers. An increase in the number of glass fiber layers enhances the overall V50 value of GFRPs, but the linear relationship with the thickness remains unchanged. The target plate with more layers of glass fiber interacts with the projectile for a longer time, resulting in the debonding of the fiber and the resin matrix. The resin around the crater loses its support and then produces irregular cracks. Based on energy conservation, a theoretical model for predicting the V50 of GFRPs with considering the effects of glass fiber and polyester matrix is proposed. After comparing the results of theoretical calculations with experimental and simulation data, the relationship equations between the key parameters (ballistic strength) in the model and the number of fiber layers and target plate thickness are finally given. These findings can provide support for the design of ballistic GFRPs.

Highlights

Ballistic velocity limit (V50) of glass fiber reinforced plastics (GFRPs) obtained by experiment and finite element simulation

Tuning the V50 of GFRPs by designing the number of glass fiber and polyester thickness.

Proposed a theoretical model for predicting the V50 of GFRPs.
Facile preparation of graphene oxide/Poly (N‐Isopropylacrylamide‐co‐acrylic acid) composite thin film and its quartz crystal microbalance humidity sensing property
Authors: Ji Le , Pan Yuran , Cao Zheng , Wang Ruotong , Yang Haicun , Cheng Junfeng , Liu Chunlin , Lu Xiaowang , de Smet Louis C. P. M.
Published: September 2024

The composite microgels were synthesized from N‐Isopropylacrylamide (NIPAM) and acrylic acid (AA) monomers in the presence of graphene oxide (GO) using an in situ radical copolymerization method. The successful preparation of these composite microgels was investigated through Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), ultraviolet visible absorption spectroscopy (UV–vis), and Raman spectroscopy. Due to the hydrophilic properties of GO and the microgels containing oxygenated groups (OH, COOH, and CONH2), quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) sensors can be fabricated by spraying the GO/P(NIPAM‐co‐AA) dispersion onto QCM sensors as sensitive coating materials. The results indicate a notable enhancement in the performance of GO/P(NIPAM‐co‐AA) modified QCM humidity sensor, compared to QCM sensors modified with either GO or P(NIPAM‐co‐AA) microgels alone. This improvement is mainly evidenced by higher sensitivity and reduced moisture hysteresis. The humidity sensing mechanism is based on the combined effect of GO and P(NIPAM‐co‐AA) microgels, which synergistically enhance the sensor's performance. Additionally, the results from water contact angle measurements, laser scanning confocal microscopy (LSCM), and scanning electron microscope (SEM) show that GO/P(NIPAM‐co‐AA) exhibits greater roughness and stronger hydrophilicity than either GO or P(NIPAM‐co‐AA) microgels alone. These properties make GO/P(NIPAM‐co‐AA) an effective moisture‐sensitive material for QCM sensors.
The phase transition behavior of polybutene in partial melting/polybutene/polypropylene
Authors: Zhu Enci , Hao Ruosong , Liu Zhipeng , Shi Weixuan , Wu Tong , Zhao Shicheng
Published: September 2024

Polybutene (PB) is a typical polymer with various crystal forms: I, II, III, and I′. Among them, the mechanical properties of Form I PB is better but only Form II crystal can be obtained from the melt due to the kinetic advantage and then transform to Form I slowly. While the slow phase transition rate restricts its application. Partial melting is applied to accelerate the phase transition, which was studied by Flash DSC. The results indicated that the phase transition behavior during partial melting shows dependence on the isothermal crystallization temperature and 70 °C is optimal, which can reduce the phase transition time from 20 h to 200 s. As the crystallization temperature determined, stepwise crystallization was used to accelerate the phase transition. The influence of nucleating temperature and time was investigated and the results indicated that 0 °C and 2 s are the best temperature and time, respectively. With stepwise crystallization, the phase transition time was further reduced to 50 s. Moreover, stepwise crystallization can increase the content of Form I crystal from 80.0% to 98.2%. The mechanism of phase transition during partial melting was proposed according to the results, which can supplement the existing phase transition mechanism.
The long‐term impact of Danish vulnerable neighbourhoods in adolescence on employment status in emerging adulthood
Authors: Jakobsen Andreas Lindegaard , Lund Rolf Lyneborg , Agerskov Anna Laura Ridder , Jensen Hanne Louise , Jørgensen Anja
Published: September 2024

Previous studies have linked growing up in vulnerable neighbourhoods to worse health and social outcomes in adulthood but with mixed findings regarding the impact on young people's employment status, and with studies often limited by models that did not optimally distinguish neighbourhood‐ from individual‐ or family‐level effects. The aim of this study was to examine the long‐term associations between living in a vulnerable Danish neighbourhood in adolescence and later employment status in emerging adulthood and to compare the relative importance of the family and neighbourhood contexts. Danish population register data were used to follow 390,574 individuals nested in 301,227 families, which were nested in 7,937 neighbourhoods from age 10–15 in 2009 to age 20–25 in 2019. Three‐level logistic regression models stratified by native and immigrant/descendant status were applied to estimate the general and specific family and neighbourhood contextual effects. The results showed higher general contextual effects attributed to the family context than to neighbourhoods, with vulnerable neighbourhoods explaining only a small part of the neighbourhood variance. After controlling for individual‐ and family‐level covariates, living in a vulnerable neighbourhood in adolescence was associated with a higher risk of not being in education or employment in emerging adulthood for both native Danes and immigrants/descendants. The findings indicate that growing up in a vulnerable neighbourhood may have a long‐term impact on employment status but with a much larger influence attributed to the family context than to adolescents’ neighbourhood context.
Propensity Score Analysis With Baseline and Follow‐Up Measurements of the Outcome Variable
Authors: Austin Peter C.
Published: September 2024

A common feature in cohort studies is when there is a baseline measurement of the continuous follow‐up or outcome variable. Common examples include baseline measurements of physiological characteristics such as blood pressure or heart rate in studies where the outcome is post‐baseline measurement of the same variable. Methods incorporating the propensity score are increasingly being used to estimate the effects of treatments using observational studies. We examined six methods for incorporating the baseline value of the follow‐up variable when using propensity score matching or weighting. These methods differed according to whether the baseline value of the follow‐up variable was included or excluded from the propensity score model, whether subsequent regression adjustment was conducted in the matched or weighted sample to adjust for the baseline value of the follow‐up variable, and whether the analysis estimated the effect of treatment on the follow‐up variable or on the change from baseline. We used Monte Carlo simulations with 750 scenarios. While no analytic method had uniformly superior performance, we provide the following recommendations: first, when using weighting and the ATE is the target estimand, use an augmented inverse probability weighted estimator or include the baseline value of the follow‐up variable in the propensity score model and subsequently adjust for the baseline value of the follow‐up variable in a regression model. Second, when the ATT is the target estimand, regardless of whether using weighting or matching, analyze change from baseline using a propensity score that excludes the baseline value of the follow‐up variable.
Stock return predictability and Taylor rules
Authors: Ince Onur , Jiang Lei , Molodtsova Tanya
Published: September 2024

This paper evaluates stock return predictability with inflation and output gap, which typically enter the Federal Reserve Bank's interest rate setting rule. We introduce Taylor rule fundamentals into the Fed model that relates stock returns to earnings and long‐term yields. Using real‐time data from 1970 to 2008, we find evidence that the Fed model with Taylor rule fundamentals performs better in‐sample and out‐of‐sample than the constant return and original Fed models. Economic significance tests indicate that the models with Taylor rule fundamentals consistently produce higher utility gains than the benchmark models. Though the performance of the Taylor rule model weakens when we extend the sample to include the post‐2008 period characterized by prolonged zero lower bound episodes, it still outperforms the benchmark models.
High‐Dimensional Overdispersed Generalized Factor Model With Application to Single‐Cell Sequencing Data Analysis
Authors: Nie Jinyu , Qin Zhilong , Liu Wei
Published: September 2024

The current high‐dimensional linear factor models fail to account for the different types of variables, while high‐dimensional nonlinear factor models often overlook the overdispersion present in mixed‐type data. However, overdispersion is prevalent in practical applications, particularly in fields like biomedical and genomics studies. To address this practical demand, we propose an overdispersed generalized factor model (OverGFM) for performing high‐dimensional nonlinear factor analysis on overdispersed mixed‐type data. Our approach incorporates an additional error term to capture the overdispersion that cannot be accounted for by factors alone. However, this introduces significant computational challenges due to the involvement of two high‐dimensional latent random matrices in the nonlinear model. To overcome these challenges, we propose a novel variational EM algorithm that integrates Laplace and Taylor approximations. This algorithm provides iterative explicit solutions for the complex variational parameters and is proven to possess excellent convergence properties. We also develop a criterion based on the singular value ratio to determine the optimal number of factors. Numerical results demonstrate the effectiveness of this criterion. Through comprehensive simulation studies, we show that OverGFM outperforms state‐of‐the‐art methods in terms of estimation accuracy and computational efficiency. Furthermore, we demonstrate the practical merit of our method through its application to two datasets from genomics. To facilitate its usage, we have integrated the implementation of OverGFM into the R package GFM.
Effect of Tumour Necrotic Factor-α, Interleukin-17 and Interleukin-22 on the Expression of Filaggerin-2 and Hornerin: Analysis of a Three-Dimensional Psoriatic Skin Model
Authors: Makino Teruhiko , Mizawa Megumi , Takemoto Keita , Yamamoto Seiji , Shimizu Tadamichi
Published: September 2024

Background

Filaggrin-2 (FLG2) and hornerin (HRNR) are members of the S100 fused-type protein family, which share many properties with filaggrin (FLG). A previous study demonstrated that the expression of FLG2 was significantly decreased in psoriatic skin relative to that in normal skin. In contrast, the HRNR expression in psoriatic skin varied among studies.

Objectives

We aimed to investigate the effect of tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), IL-17A and IL-22 on the expression of FLG2 and HRNR using a three-dimensional psoriatic skin model.

Methods

In the present study, we generated a 3D psoriatic skin model that was stimulated with TNF-α, IL-17A and IL-22 for 3D skin equivalents. Using this model, we examined the altered expression of FLG2 and HRNR by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and immunostaining.

Results

In the 3D psoriatic skin model, the expression of FLG2 and HRNR was significantly reduced compared with that in the 3D control skin. FLG2 expression was significantly decreased by stimulation with TNF-α, IL-17A and IL-22. In contrast, the expression of HRNR was markedly increased by stimulation with IL-22, although it was slightly decreased by TNF-α or IL-17A compared to the 3D control skin.

Conclusion

TNF-α, IL-17A and IL-22 have different effects on FLG2 and HRNR expression and epidermal structure formation. Furthermore, FLG2 and HRNR may play different roles in barrier formation and the pathogenesis of psoriasis.
The Age-Related Incidence of Male Genital Lichen Sclerosus is Triphasic
Authors: Choudhary Cherry , Beazley Ryan , Uppal Encarl , Kravvas Georgios , Bunker Christopher
Published: September 2024

Background

Male genital lichen sclerosus (MGLSc) is a chronic and acquired inflammatory dermatosis associated with substantial sexual dysfunction and urological morbidity and mortality. The age incidence of MGLSc is held to be biphasic, with a peak in infancy and another in adulthood. A recent review has implied two peaks in adulthood (making it triphasic overall); this triphasicity has been our emergent clinical impression from a voluminous practice. Furthermore, a link between MGLSc and smoking has been suggested, but this has not been our clinical impression.

Objectives

The primary objective was to clarify the age-specific incidence of adult men with GLSc; the secondary objective was to explore the relationship between MGLSc and smoking.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the medical notes of 487 adult MGLSc patients from a large specialist male genital dermatology clinic. We abstracted data about the age of diagnosis and smoking history.

Results

A biphasic U-shaped age distribution was identified with two clear peaks at the end of the third decade and another in the sixth decade of life (Hartigan's dip-stat = 0.03; p < 0.01). Thirty-six percent of the patients had been smokers at some point in their lives.

Conclusions

These findings confirm that MGLSc is biphasic in its adult incidence, confirming an earlier supposition; including the previously well-acknowledged paediatric peak, it is thus triphasic. The smoking data are probably unremarkable compared with the available data for smoking habits from the United Kingdom. These findings indirectly support what is postulated about the likely pathogenesis of MGLSc, that is, urinary micro-incontinence, occlusion and epithelial susceptibility.
Liquid Phase Electron Microscopy of Bacterial Ultrastructure
Authors: Caffrey Brian J. , Pedrazo‐Tardajos Adrián , Liberti Emanuela , Gaunt Benjamin , Kim Judy S. , Kirkland Angus I.
Published: September 2024

Recent advances in liquid phase scanning transmission electron microscopy (LP‐STEM) have enabled the study of dynamic biological processes at nanometer resolutions, paving the way for live‐cell imaging using electron microscopy. However, this technique is often hampered by the inherent thickness of whole cell samples and damage from electron beam irradiation. These restrictions degrade image quality and resolution, impeding biological interpretation. Using graphene encapsulation, scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM), and energy‐dispersive X‐ray (EDX) spectroscopy to mitigate these issues provides unprecedented levels of intracellular detail in aqueous specimens. This study demonstrates the potential of LP‐STEM to examine and identify internal cellular structures in thick biological samples. Specifically, it highlights the use of LP‐STEM to investigate the radiation resistant, gram‐positive bacterium, Deinococcus radiodurans using various imaging techniques.
An Approach to Apply BDNF Targeting Fe3O4‐Based Nanoparticles as Multifunctional Anti‐Alzheimer Agents
Authors: Fang Lei , Song Yunxia , Jin Haifeng , Liu Yinyin , Gou Shaohua
Published: September 2024

To search for novel anti‐Alzheimer agents, multifunctional Fe3O4‐based nanoparticles (FSSIO) is designed and prepared which contain ferulic acid (FA) and Simvastatin linked to the surface of Fe3O4 particles. In vitro tests confirmed that FSSIO possessed favorable biocompatibility and a pronounced ability to penetrate blood brain barrier. The FA moiety endowed the particles with remarkable antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory properties, and effectively protected neuron cells from the toxicity induced by Aβ. Moreover, the Simvastatin pharmacophore assists the particles up‐regulate the expression level of BDNF and significantly promotes the expression levels of p‐TrkB, p‐ERK, p‐PI3K and Akt, which consequently leads to the neurite outgrowth via regulating PI3K/ATK and TrkB‐mediated signaling pathway. More importantly, in the Morris water maze test, FSSIO shows excellent activity to enhance the learning and memory retention of AD model rats.
Kill Two Birds with One Stone: Dual‐Metal MOF‐Nanozyme‐Decorated Hydrogels with ROS‐Scavenging, Oxygen‐Generating, and Antibacterial Abilities for Accelerating Infected Diabetic Wound Healing
Authors: Wei Yun‐Jie , Chen Heng , Zhou Zi‐Wen , Liu Chun‐Xiu , Cai Chun‐Xian , Li Jing , Yu Xiao‐Qi , Zhang Ji , Liu Yan‐Hong , Wang Na
Published: September 2024

Diabetic wounds tend to develop into nonhealing wounds associated with the complex inflammatory microenvironment of uncontrollable bacterial infection, reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation, and chronic hypoxia. Damaged blood vessels hinder metabolic circulation, aggravating hypoxia, and ROS accumulation and further exacerbating the diabetic wound microenvironment. However, existing treatments with a single functionality have difficulty healing complicated diabetic wounds. Therefore, developing an integrative strategy to improve the hostility of the diabetic wound microenvironment is urgently needed. Herein, multifunctional genipin (GP)‐crosslinked chitosan (CS)‐based hydrogels decorated with the biomimetic metal–organic framework (MOF)‐nanozymes and the natural antibacterial agent chlorogenic acid (CGA), which is named MOF/CGA@GP‐CS (MCGC), are prepared. With catalase (CAT)‐like activity, these dual‐metal MOF‐nanozymes are promising bioreactors for simultaneously alleviating ROS accumulation and hypoxia by converting elevated endogenous H2O2 into dissolved oxygen in diabetic wounds. In addition, the other component of natural polyphenolic CGA acts as a mild antibacterial agent, efficiently inhibiting wound infection and avoiding antibiotic resistance. Impressively, the MCGC hydrogels accelerate infected diabetic wound healing by eliminating oxidative stress, increasing oxygenation, and reversing bacterial infection in vivo. In this work, an effective strategy based on multifunctional hydrogel wound dressings is successfully developed and applied in diabetic wound management.
Construction of 3D Fibonacci Cauliflower‐Like NiCo2S4/Expanded Graphite Heterogeneous Structures for Enhanced Electromagnetic Wave Absorption
Authors: Wei Qun , Xu Lei , Lu Junyu , Xie Cheng , Tang Zhimeng , Han Zhaohui , Shu Junjie
Published: September 2024

Highly efficient electromagnetic wave (EMW)‐absorbing multicomposites can be fabricated by constructing particular structures using suitable components. Expanded graphite (EG) has a 3D, low‐density porous structure; however, it suffers from poor impedance matching and EMW absorption properties. Based on this information, in the present study, NiCo2S4 components with different morphologies are successfully loaded onto a 3D EG surface using a facile microwave solvothermal method to achieve a synergistic effect between the different components. The NiCo2S4 content is adjusted to alter the compositional morphology and electromagnetic parameters of the composites to achieve impedance‐matching and obtain excellent EMW absorption properties. The heterogeneous interface between EG and NiCo2S4 induces an inhomogeneous spatial charge distribution and enhances interfacial polarization. The defects in the material and oxygen‐containing groups induce dipole polarization, which enhances the polarization‐relaxation process of the composites. The 3D porous heterostructure of the “Fibonacci cauliflower”‐shaped NiCo2S4/EG composites results in an optimal reflection loss of −64.93 dB at a filler rate of only 14 wt.%. Analysis of the synergistic conduction loss and polarization loss mechanisms in carbon‐based materials with heterogeneous interfaces has led to the development of excellent EMW absorption materials.
Macroscopic Self‐Assembly Realized by Polymer Brush─A Thickness‐Dependent Rule for Rapid Wet Adhesion
Authors: Lin Cuiling , Hou Fangwei , Zhang Qian , Zhu Guiqiang , Cheng Mengjiao , Shi Feng
Published: September 2024

Macroscopic self‐assembly of µm‐to‐mm components (dimension from 100 µm to millimeters), is meaningful to realize the concept of “self‐assembly at all scales” and to understand interfacial phenomena such as adhesion, self‐healing, and adsorption. However, self‐assembly at this length scale is different from molecular self‐assembly due to limited collision chances and binding capacity between components. Long‐time contact between components is requisite to realize µm‐to‐mm assembly. Even though the recent idea of adding a compliant coating to enhance the molecular binding capacity is effective for such self‐assembly, a trade‐off between coating thickness (several micrometers) and assembly efficiency exists. Here a new compliant coating of surface‐initiated polymer brush to address the above paradox by both realizing fast assembly and reducing the coating thickness to ≈40 nm by two magnitudes is demonstrated. Millimeter‐sized quartz cubes are used as components and grafted with oppositely charged polyelectrolyte brushes, enabling assembly in water by electrostatic attraction and disassembly in NaCl solutions. A rule of thickness‐dependent assembly chance is obtained and understood by in situ force measurements and a multivalent theory. The polymer brush strategy pushes the thickness limit of requisite compliant coating to the nanoscale for fast µm‐to‐mm self‐assembly and provides insights into rapid wet adhesion.
Remote Control: Electrochemically Driving EGaIn@Fe Liquid Metal for Application of Soft Robotics
Authors: Ku Hao‐Han , Wang Po‐Yung , Huang Chun‐Wei
Published: September 2024

This study introduces magnetized EGaIn@Fe, an innovative material synthesized by incorporating iron powder into the eutectic gallium‐indium alloy (EGaIn). Unlike traditional methods requiring electrolyte environments for electrical control, EGaIn@Fe can be manipulated using external magnetic fields, expanding control from 2D to 3D spaces. The material exhibits both active and passive splitting capabilities under magnetic and electrical control, demonstrating exceptional deformability, precision, and flexibility. EGaIn@Fe shows significant promise in applications such as microfluidic channels, circuit repair, and soft robotics. Specifically, 5 wt.% EGaIn@Fe is optimal for microfluidic tasks and circuit repairs in confined spaces, while higher concentrations (10 and 15 wt.%) enhance 3D control and reduce material usage. Additionally, 20 wt.% EGaIn@Fe displays octopus‐like movements for navigating impassable channels. EGaIn@Fe can enhance fluid manipulation in microfluidics, bridge gaps in circuit repairs, and enable flexible actuators in soft robotics, driving advancements in adaptive materials and technologies.