bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Seasonal climate variations during Marine Isotope Stages 3 and 2 inferred from high‐resolution oxygen isotope ratios in horse tooth enamel from Lower Austria
Authors: Reiss Lilian , Mayr Christoph , Pasda Kerstin , Joachimski Michael M. , Einwögerer Thomas , Händel Marc , Maier Andreas
Published: March 2024

We present sequential oxygen isotope records (δ18Ophosphate vs. VSMOW) of horse tooth enamel phosphate of six individuals from two adjacent Palaeolithic sites in Lower Austria. Three molars from the site Krems‐Wachtberg date to 33–31k cal a
bp, and three molars from Kammern‐Grubgraben to 24–20k cal a
bp. All teeth show seasonal isotope variations, which are used to reconstruct the annual oxygen isotope composition of drinking water (δ18Odw) and palaeotemperatures. Measured δ18Ophosphate values ranged from 8.6 to 13.0‰ and from 10.8 to 13.9‰ at Krems‐Wachtberg and Kammern‐Grubgraben, respectively. An inverse modelling approach was used to reconstruct summer and winter temperatures after a correction for glacial oceanic source water δ18O. Reconstructed annual δ18Odw was −16.4 ± 1.5‰ at Krems‐Wachtberg and −15.3 ± 1.4‰ at Kammern‐Grubgraben, resulting in annual temperatures of −5.7 ± 3.1 and −3.5 ± 2.9°C, respectively. Summer and winter temperatures reconstructed from individual teeth exhibit high seasonal variations with moderate summer temperatures and extremely low winter temperatures typical for a polar tundra climate. Isotopic differences between individuals are attributed to interannual climate variability or to different drinking water sources. Our reconstructed temperatures are, overall, consistent with previously reported values from European horse teeth, when taking regional differences into account.
Holocene hydroclimate in highland Costa Rica: new evidence from hydrogen and carbon isotopes in n‐alkanes of terrestrial leaf waxes in a 10 000‐year sediment profile
Authors: Kerr Matthew T. , Horn Sally P. , Lane Chad S.
Published: March 2024

We conducted compound‐specific stable hydrogen (δD) and carbon (δ13C) isotope analysis on n‐alkanes from terrestrial leaf waxes preserved in a 10 000‐year sediment profile from Lago de las Morrenas 1 (9.4925° N, 83.4848° W, 3480 m), a glacial lake on the Chirripó massif of the Cordillera de Talamanca in Costa Rica. Our results demonstrate millennial‐scale variations in hydroclimate across the Holocene, with drier than average conditions in the highlands during the early Holocene, but with gradually increasing precipitation; mesic conditions during the middle Holocene with a gradual drying trend; and highly variable conditions during the late Holocene. This general pattern is punctuated by several centennial‐scale manifestations of global climate events, including dry conditions during the 8200, 5200 and 4200 cal a 
bp events and the Terminal Classic Drought (1200–850 cal a 
bp). Our δ13C analyses demonstrate that carbon isotope signals are responding to changes in hydroclimate at the site and reinforce prior interpretations of a stable páramo plant community that established following deglaciation and persisted throughout the Holocene. The shifts in hydroclimate inferred from analyses of n‐alkanes in Lago de las Morrenas 1 sediments show correspondence with charcoal records in multiple lakes, with fires most common during drier intervals.
Development of a search filter to retrieve reports of interrupted time series studies from MEDLINE and PubMed
Authors: Nguyen Phi‐Yen , McKenzie Joanne E. , Turner Simon L. , Page Matthew J. , McDonald Steve
Published: March 2024

Background

Interrupted time series (ITS) studies contribute importantly to systematic reviews of population‐level interventions. We aimed to develop and validate search filters to retrieve ITS studies in MEDLINE and PubMed.

Methods

A total of 1017 known ITS studies (published 2013–2017) were analysed using text mining to generate candidate terms. A control set of 1398 time‐series studies were used to select differentiating terms. Various combinations of candidate terms were iteratively tested to generate three search filters. An independent set of 700 ITS studies was used to validate the filters' sensitivities. The filters were test‐run in Ovid MEDLINE and the records randomly screened for ITS studies to determine their precision. Finally, all MEDLINE filters were translated to PubMed format and their sensitivities in PubMed were estimated.

Results

Three search filters were created in MEDLINE: a precision‐maximising filter with high precision (78%; 95% CI 74%–82%) but moderate sensitivity (63%; 59%–66%), most appropriate when there are limited resources to screen studies; a sensitivity‐and‐precision‐maximising filter with higher sensitivity (81%; 77%–83%) but lower precision (32%; 28%–36%), providing a balance between expediency and comprehensiveness; and a sensitivity‐maximising filter with high sensitivity (88%; 85%–90%) but likely very low precision, useful when combined with specific content terms. Similar sensitivity estimates were found for PubMed versions.

Conclusion

Our filters strike different balances between comprehensiveness and screening workload and suit different research needs. Retrieval of ITS studies would be improved if authors identified the ITS design in the titles.
Effects of an inoculation dose of Issatchenkia terricola WJL‐G4 on physicochemical properties, active substances, and antioxidant capacity of black, red, and white currant juice
Authors: Gao Liping , Li Yunhan , Yang Shuo , Bao Yihong , Luo Ting , Wang Jinling
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND

Due to the high level of organic acids – primarily citric acid – black, red, and white currants have an excessively sour taste, making taste adjustment during processing challenging. This study investigated and evaluated the effects of an inoculation dose of the acid‐reducing yeast Issatchenkia terricola WJL‐G4 on several aspect such as physicochemical properties, chromaticity, active substances, and antioxidant capacity. A sensory evaluation was also conducted.

RESULTS

The results indicated that, when the inoculation dose increased from 2% to 12%, the total phenol, total flavonoid, and total anthocyanin content, and antioxidant capacity in currant juice decreased. A low inoculation dose (2–4%) was beneficial for preserving the total phenol and total flavonoid content. Although the levels of most phenolic compounds decreased, the concentrations of caffeic acid, p‐coumaric acid, ferulic acid, rutin, and epicatechin were significantly higher than the control after fermentation. Overall acceptability and taste scores of fermented currants improved compared with those of the control group.

CONCLUSION

This experiment provided an effective solution, with a theoretical basis, to the problems of the sour taste and harsh flavor of currant juice. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Tracing the disc: The novel qualitative morphometric MRI based disc degeneration classification system
Authors: Soydan Zafer , Bayramoglu Emru , Urut Devrim Ulas , Iplikcioglu Ahmet Celal , Sen Cengiz
Published: March 2024

Background

This study aimed to develop a classification system for lumbar disc degeneration using routine magnetic resonance images (MRIs) that is easily applicable and unaffected by existing classifications' limitations, and to compare its reliability, reproducibility, and discriminative power to the widely used Pfirrmann classification.

Methods

Five features were graded. This new classification system has eight grades, with at least one of these five features altering each grade. The T2‐weighted sagittal images were acquired using a rapid spin‐echo sequence with a repetition time of 2680 to 4900 milliseconds, an echo time of 100 to 109 milliseconds, and an echo train length of 17. Slice thick was 4 mm and the display field of view was 32 × 32 cm. The new classification system used five features: signal intensity, disc height, disc boundary regularity, and nucleus annulus separation. Increased signal intensity, decreased height, decreased regularity, and decreased nucleus‐annulus separation indicated degeneration. Four raters classified 400 discs from 80 patients using the Pfirrmann and Novel systems. Statistical analyses were conducted to investigate reliability and correlation.

Results

The overall ICC and kappa values were found to be higher in the novel classification. (0.988 indicating excellent agreement for ICC and 0.76/0.94 indicating good–very good agreement for kappa). The Kendall tau c value, which shows the correlation between the two classifications and indicates the validity of the new classification, was 0.872, which is very strong. Through the use of cross‐tabulations, the discriminatory power of the two newly added classification criteria was determined.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates the intra‐rater and inter‐rater reliability of an easy‐to‐use, discriminative novel morphometric MRI based classification system for lumbar disc degeneration. The differentiation of grades based on five distinct criteria may generate novel hypotheses regarding treatment selection and response monitoring, as well as new insights into the study of disc degeneration.
No significant difference in thick versus thin osteochondral flap trochleoplasty in the treatment of trochlear dysplasia: A systematic review
Authors: Eikani Carlo , Knapik Derrick M. , Vadhera Amar S. , Singh Harsh , Polce Evan , Gursoy Safa , Yanke Adam B. , Chahla Jorge
Published: March 2024

Purpose

Trochleoplasty has become increasingly utilised to address patellar instability in the setting of severe trochlear dysplasia. There remains a paucity of literature on the outcomes of ‘thick’‐ versus ‘thin’‐osteochondral flap trochleoplasty. The purpose of this study is to compare clinical and radiographic outcomes between patients with patellar instability with symptomatic trochlear dysplasia treated using a ‘thick’ versus ‘thin’ osteochondral flap trochleoplasty.

Methods

A systematic review and meta‐analysis were conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines using a PRISMA checklist. Quality assessment of final articles was conducted by two blinded reviewers. Articles were separated based on the use of a ‘thick’ versus ‘thin’ flap trochleoplasty. Data collection consisted of recording the following variables: patient demographics, indications for trochleoplasty, mean follow‐up time, additional procedures performed during trochleoplasty, patient‐reported outcome measures (PROMs), radiographic outcomes (tibial tubercle‐trochlear groove [TT‐TG] distance, Caton–Deschamps Index [CDI] and sulcus angle [SA]) and the incidence of any postoperative complications and patellar redislocation rates.

Results

A total of 24 studies, consisting of 927 patients, were identified as meeting inclusion criteria. A total of five papers described a ‘thick’ flap technique, while 19 papers described the use of a ‘thin’ flap technique. No significant difference in the mean improvement of Kujala scores was appreciated when comparing ‘thick’ versus ‘thin’ techniques (p > 0.05). Improvements in mean radiographic outcomes based on TT‐TG, CDI and SA were observed in both ‘thick’ and ‘thin’ flap trochleoplasty groups. The overall redislocation rate was 0.35%.

Conclusion

No significant difference in Kujala scores was observed in patients undergoing trochleoplasty utilising ‘thick’ versus ‘thin’ technique, while improvements in mean TT‐TG, CDI and SA were noted in both technique groups, with an overall redislocation rate of 0.35%.

Level of Evidence

Level IV.
Mesoionic N‐Heterocyclic Olefins as Initiators for the Lewis Pair Polymerization of Epoxides
Authors: Haug Iris , Reitz Justus , Ziane Célia , Buchmeiser Michael R. , Hansmann Max M. , Naumann Stefan
Published: March 2024

Mesoionic N‐heterocyclic olefins (mNHOs) have recently emerged as a novel class of highly nucleophilic and super‐basic σ‐donor compounds. Making use of these properties in synthetic polymer chemistry, it is shown that a combination of a specific mNHO and a Mg‐based Lewis acid (magnesium bis(hexamethyldisilazide), Mg(HMDS)2) delivers poly(propylene oxide) in quantitative yields from the polymerization of the corresponding epoxide (0.1 mol% mNHO loading). The initiation mechanism involves monomer activation by the Lewis acid and direct ring‐opening of the monomer by nucleophilic attack of the mNHO, forming a zwitterionic propagating species. Modulation of the mNHO properties is thereby a direct tool to impact initiation efficiency, revealing a sterically unencumbered triazole‐derivative as particularly useful. The joint application of mNHOs together with borane‐type Lewis acids is also outlined, resulting in high conversions and fast polymerization kinetics. Importantly, while molar mass distributions remain relatively broad, indicating faster propagation than initiation, the overall molar masses are significantly lower than found in the case of regular NHOs, underlining the increased nucleophilicity and ensuing improved initiation efficiency of mNHOs.
Mechanochromic Hydrogel Fibers with Multiple Fluorescent Colors
Authors: Xu Bo , Yang Jin , Yang Yinghe , Yang Jiping , Wang Zhijian
Published: March 2024

Mechanochromic polymers can change their color in response to external force and have shown promising applications in stress sensing and failure warning. They are usually obtained as thin films or bulky specimens. The mechanochromic fibers, which can be used to make smart fabrics, have been seldom reported due to the lack of efficient fabrication techniques. In this work, a general method using photo‐polymerization of microgel solution in a template tube to produce mechanochromic hydrogel fibers is reported. The obtained hydrogel fibers can generate visible and fluorescent color changes upon deformation. The diameter of the mechanochromic fibers can be easily adjusted by using different template tubes. The mechanochromic fibers can be fabricated as long as 1 m. By reducing the fiber diameter or increasing the microgel concentration, the mechanical properties of the mechanochromic fibers can be improved, leading to more obvious mechanochromic behavior. The polymethacrylate (PMA) is further used to coat the hydrogel fibers, prevent the loss of water in the fibers, and increase the storage time. The mechanochromic fibers with multiple fluorescent colors are further fabricated by utilizing different microgel solutions. This work provides an easy and effective method to fabricate mechanochromic fibers with different color change abilities.
RsaL is a self‐regulatory switch that controls alternative biosynthesis of two AHL‐type quorum sensing signals in Pseudomonas aeruginosa PA1201
Authors: He Ya‐Wen , Jin Zi‐Jing , Cui Ying , Song Kai , Chen Bo , Zhou Lian
Published: March 2024

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a ubiquitous and metabolically versatile microorganism naturally found in soil and water. It is also an opportunistic pathogen in plants, insects, animals, and humans. In response to increasing cell density, P. aeruginosa uses two acyl‐homoserine lactone (AHL) quorum‐sensing (QS) signals (i.e., N‐3‐oxo‐dodecanoyl homoserine lactone [3‐oxo‐C12‐HSL] and N‐butanoyl‐homoserine lactone [C4‐HSL]), which regulate the expression of hundreds of genes. However, how the biosynthesis of these two QS signals is coordinated remains unknown. We studied the regulation of these two QS signals in the rhizosphere strain PA1201. PA1201 sequentially produced 3‐oxo‐C12‐HSL and C4‐HSL at the early and late growth stages, respectively. The highest 3‐oxo‐C12‐HSL‐dependent elastase activity was observed at the early stage, while the highest C4‐HSL‐dependent rhamnolipid production was observed at the late stage. The atypical regulator RsaL played a pivotal role in coordinating 3‐oxo‐C12‐HSL and C4‐HSL biosynthesis and QS‐associated virulence. RsaL repressed lasI transcription by binding the –10 and –35 boxes of the lasI promoter. In contrast, RsaL activated rhlI transcription by binding the region encoding the 5′‐untranslated region of the rhlI mRNA. Further, RsaL repressed its own expression by binding a nucleotide motif located in the –35 box of the rsaL promoter. Thus, RsaL acts as a molecular switch that coordinates the sequential biosynthesis of AHL QS signals and differential virulence in PA1201. Finally, C4‐HSL activation by RsaL was independent of the Las and Pseudomonas quinolone signal (PQS) QS signaling systems. Therefore, we propose a new model of the QS regulatory network in PA1201, in which RsaL represents a superior player acting at the top of the hierarchy.
Advances and applications of nanoparticles in cancer therapy
Authors: Huang Xianzhou , He Tao , Liang Xiuqi , Xiang Zhongzheng , Liu Chao , Zhou Shiyao , Luo Rui , Bai Liping , Kou Xiaorong , Li Xinchao , Wu Rui , Gou Xinyu , Wu Xinyue , Huang Dongxue , Fu Wangxian , Li Yingjie , Chen Ruhan , Xu Ningyue , Wang Yixi , Le Hao , Chen Tao , Xu Yangsong , Tang Yuting , Gong Changyang
Published: March 2024

Rapid growth in nanoparticles (NPs) as delivery systems holds vast promise to promote therapeutic approaches for cancer treatment. Presently, a diverse array of NPs with unique properties have been developed to overcome different challenges and to achieve sophisticated delivery routes for enhancement of a series of therapies. Inspiring advances have been achieved in the field of cancer therapy using NPs. In this review, we aim to summarize the up‐to‐date progression of NPs for addressing various challenges, and expect to elicit novel and potential opportunities alternatively. We first introduce different sorts of NP technologies, illustrate their mechanisms, and present their applications. Then, the achievements made by NPs to break obstacles in delivering cargoes to specific sites through particular routes are highlighted, including long‐circulation, tumor targeting, responsive release, and subcellular localization. We subsequently retrospect recent research of NPs in different cancer treatments from single therapy, like chemotherapy, to combination therapy, like chemoradiotherapy, and to integrative therapy. Finally, the challenges and perspectives of NPs in cancer therapy, and their potential impact on the field of oncology are discussed. We believe this review can offer a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities of NPs for cancer therapy.
Changes in lower urinary tract function after minimally invasive nerve‐sparing for complete excision of endometriosis: An observational study
Authors: Gomes Fernanda Hack , Fonseca Marlon de Freitas , Favorito Luciano Alves , Gasparoni Mauro Poggiali , da Silva Filho Fernando Salles , Diniz André Luiz Lima , de Resende Júnior José Anacleto D.
Published: March 2024

Objectives

The objective of this paper is to evaluate changes in lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), severity of pain and urodynamic parameters after minimally invasive nerve‐sparing surgery for patients with endometriosis.

Methods

We analyzed 143 patients undergoing minimally invasive nerve‐sparing surgery for endometriosis excision (laparoscopy/robot‐assisted). The endometriosis was confirmed by preoperative clinical evaluation, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showing at least one lesion deeper than 5 mm, and histological confirmation after laparoscopy. We evaluated three points prior and after surgery: LUTS parameters according to the International Urogynecological Association; urodynamic measures of storage and voiding and the severity of the dyspareunia, dyschezia and dysmenorrhea assessed on a self‐reported 11‐point numeric rating scale. The Wilcoxon signed rank and McNemar tests were used for statistical analyses (p < 0.05).

Results

We observed significant improvements in LUTS after the surgery with postoperative symptom‐free probabilities in urgency (64.5%), daytime frequency (38.5%), and dysuria (87.1%). However, slow stream prevalence increased significantly postsurgery (p = 0.022), with a 20.5% risk of asymptomatic patients developing this symptom. Urodynamic responses varied; for instance, maximum cystometric capacity improved significantly (p = 0.004), while postvoiding residual worsened (p = 0.006). Significant worsening in postvoiding residual occurred in women with normal preoperative values (p = 0.002), with a 17.7% risk of normal values becoming abnormal. Compliance or maximum cystometric capacity not considered normal preoperatively showed significant improvements (p < 0.001), but the risk of normal values becoming abnormal after surgery was 14.5%.

Conclusion

The minimally invasive nerve‐sparing surgery for endometriosis excision shows improvement in lower urinary tract symptoms, urodynamics parameters and severity of pain. The majority of patients became asymptomatic in the postoperative period. When compared to the benefits of the patients' surgical treatment, particularly when considering the reduction of pain, the risks of the lower urinary tract treatment seem to be acceptable. The surgical intervention seems to be a safe alternative in patients with endometriosis, although studies with larger samples are needed to confirm these findings.
Noise suppression of proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy improves paediatric brain tumour classification
Authors: Zhao Teddy , Grist James T. , Auer Dorothee P. , Avula Shivaram , Bailey Simon , Davies Nigel P. , Grundy Richard G. , Khan Omar , MacPherson Lesley , Morgan Paul S. , Pizer Barry , Rose Heather E. L. , Sun Yu , Wilson Martin , Worthington Lara , Arvanitis Theodoros N. , Peet Andrew C.
Published: March 2024

Proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H‐MRS) is increasingly used for clinical brain tumour diagnosis, but suffers from limited spectral quality. This retrospective and comparative study aims at improving paediatric brain tumour classification by performing noise suppression on clinical 1H‐MRS. Eighty‐three/forty‐two children with either an ependymoma (ages 4.6
5.3/9.3
5.4), a medulloblastoma (ages 6.9
3.5/6.5
4.4), or a pilocytic astrocytoma (8.0
3.6/6.3
5.0), recruited from four centres across England, were scanned with 1.5T/3T short‐echo‐time point‐resolved spectroscopy. The acquired raw 1H‐MRS was quantified by using Totally Automatic Robust Quantitation in NMR (TARQUIN), assessed by experienced spectroscopists, and processed with adaptive wavelet noise suppression (AWNS). Metabolite concentrations were extracted as features, selected based on multiclass receiver operating characteristics, and finally used for identifying brain tumour types with supervised machine learning. The minority class was oversampled through the synthetic minority oversampling technique for comparison purposes. Post‐noise‐suppression 1H‐MRS showed significantly elevated signal‐to‐noise ratios (P < .05, Wilcoxon signed‐rank test), stable full width at half‐maximum (P > .05, Wilcoxon signed‐rank test), and significantly higher classification accuracy (P < .05, Wilcoxon signed‐rank test). Specifically, the cross‐validated overall and balanced classification accuracies can be improved from 81% to 88% overall and 76% to 86% balanced for the 1.5T cohort, whilst for the 3T cohort they can be improved from 62% to 76% overall and 46% to 56%, by applying Naïve Bayes on the oversampled 1H‐MRS. The study shows that fitting‐based signal‐to‐noise ratios of clinical 1H‐MRS can be significantly improved by using AWNS with insignificantly altered line width, and the post‐noise‐suppression 1H‐MRS may have better diagnostic performance for paediatric brain tumours.
#OtoTwitter: The Top 75 Twitter Influencers in Otolaryngology and Association With Academic Impact
Authors: Miller Alexis , Patro Ankita , Stevens Madelyn N. , Scott Fortune David , Gelbard Alexander , Haynes David S. , Topf Michael C.
Published: March 2024

Objectives

Social media has enabled discussion of relevant topics within otolaryngology. With increasing academic discourse occurring on virtual platforms, it is important to examine who is influencing these discussions. This study thus aims to: (1) identify the top Twitter influencers in otolaryngology and (2) assess the relationship between Twitter influence and academic impact.

Study Design

Cross‐sectional analysis.

Setting

Twitter.

Methods

The Right Relevance program was used to identify and rank the top 75 Twitter influencers, excluding organizations, according to the search terms “otolaryngology,” “head and neck surgery,” “ear nose throat,” “rhinology,” “head and neck,” “laryngology,” “facial plastics,” and “otology.” Demographic data and h‐index were collected for each influencer. Correlational analyzes were performed to assess the relationships between Twitter rank and geographic location, sex, subspecialty, and h‐index.

Results

The majority of the top 75 influencers were otolaryngologists (87%), female (68%), and located in the United States (61%). General otolaryngology (n = 20, 31%) was more well‐represented than any individual subspecialty including facial plastics (n = 10, 15%), rhinology (n = 10, 15%), and neurotology (n = 9, 14%). There was a significant relationship between Twitter rank and h‐index (Spearman ρ value of –0.32; 95% confidence interval: –0.51 to –0.01; P = .006). Twitter rank was not significantly correlated with subspecialty, sex, or geographic location (P > .05).

Conclusion

The majority of Twitter influencers within otolaryngology were otolaryngologists, female, and located in the United States. Social media influence is positively associated with academic impact among otolaryngologists.
The Hearing Function and Ambulatory Blood Pressure in Older Adults
Authors: Yévenes‐Briones Humberto , Caballero Francisco Félix , Struijk Ellen A. , Estrada‐deLeón Daniela B. , Rey‐Martinez Jorge , Rodríguez‐Artalejo Fernando , Banegas José R. , Lopez‐Garcia Esther
Published: March 2024

Objective

To examine the association between hearing function, assessed with pure‐tone average (PTA) of air conduction thresholds, and 24‐hour ambulatory blood pressure (BP) in older adults.

Study Design

Cross‐sectional study.

Setting

A total of 1404 community‐dwelling individuals aged ≥65 years from the Seniors‐ENRICA cohort were examined.

Methods

Hearing loss was defined as PTA > 40‐AudCal hearing loss decibels (dB‐aHL) in the better ear for standard frequency (0.5, 1, and 2 kHz), speech frequency (0.5, 1, 2, and 4 kHz), and high frequency (3, 4, and 8 kHz). Circadian BP patterns were calculated as the percentage decline in systolic BP during the night, and participants were classified as dipper, nondipper, and riser. Ambulatory hypertension was defined as BP ≥ 130/80 mm Hg (24 hour), ≥135/85 (daytime), and ≥120/70 (nighttime) or on antihypertensive treatment. Analyses were performed with linear‐ and logistic‐regression models adjusted for the main confounders.

Results

In multivariable analyses, the PTA was associated with higher nighttime systolic BP [β coefficient per 20 dB‐aHL increment standard frequency (95% confidence interval, CI): 2.41 mm Hg (0.87, 3.95); β (95% CI) per 20 dB‐aHL increment speech frequency 2.17 mm Hg (0.70, 3.64)]. Among hypertensive patients, hearing loss at standard and high‐frequency PTA was associated with the riser BP pattern [odds ratio: 2.01 (95% CI, 1.03‐3.93) and 1.45 (1.00‐2.09), respectively]; also, hearing loss at standard PTA was linked to uncontrolled nighttime BP [1.81 (1.01‐3.24)].

Conclusion

PTA was associated with higher nighttime BP, and hearing loss with a riser BP pattern and uncontrolled BP in older hypertensives.
Same‐Day Discharge for Pediatric Hemithyroidectomy Patients: Evaluating Safety and Barriers to Discharge
Authors: July O'Brien Kaitlin , Naveed Abdullah , Patel Siddharth , Gallant Jean‐Nicolas , Rohde Sarah , Belcher Ryan H.
Published: March 2024

Objective

Hemithyroidectomy is often performed in the pediatric population for indeterminate or benign thyroid nodules. Prior studies confirmed the safety of same‐day discharge for adults undergoing hemithyroidectomy or total thyroidectomy, but this has not been studied thoroughly in the pediatric population. Our goal was to determine differences in pediatric patients undergoing hemithyroidectomy who were admitted versus discharged for complications or factors to support same‐day discharge.

Study Design

Retrospective cohort.

Setting

Pediatric tertiary care hospital.

Methods

This was a retrospective study of pediatric patients (0‐18 years of age) undergoing hemithyroidectomy at a pediatric tertiary care hospital from 2003 to 2022. Perioperative variables and outcomes were gathered via manual chart review.

Results

One hundred five pediatric patients who underwent hemithyroidectomy were identified. Ninety (86%) patients were admitted postoperatively, and 15 (14%) were discharged the same day. There were no differences in patient demographics, including age (P = 0.29) distance from the hospital (P = 0.08) or benign versus malignant pathology (P = 0.93). Surgical time in same‐day discharges was significantly shorter (P = 0.0001; 138.6 minutes, SD = 66.0) versus admitted patients (204.2 minutes, SD = 48.6) Hemostatic agents were used more in same‐day discharges at 53.3% versus 4.5% (P = 0.0001). Perioperative complications occurred in 2 (2.2%) admitted patients compared to none in the same‐day discharge (P = 1.0). There were no readmissions within 30 days for same‐day discharges.

Conclusion

In pediatric patients undergoing uncomplicated hemithyroidectomy, same‐day discharge appears appropriate for those with shorter surgical times and intraoperative use of hemostatic agents with no readmissions or complications in those discharged the same day.
Gardens as drivers of native plant species dispersal and conservation
Authors: Staude Ingmar R.
Published: March 2024

Gardens hold untapped potential for participatory biodiversity conservation. Conservation gardening has recently emerged as a way to foster declining native plant species in urban and rural green spaces. But the impact of cultivating these species on population trends in the broader landscape remains underexplored.

This study examines the effects of cultivating herbaceous native plants on their long‐term population trends and endangerment, using Rothmaler's ‘Herbaceous Ornamental and Crop Plants’ in Germany, along with the German Red List of 1998 and 2018. It investigates whether native plants under cultivation are less endangered, examines the long‐term population trends relative to cultivation frequency and assesses the potential role of cultivation in improving Red List status.

The findings reveal that cultivated species, especially those commonly grown in gardens, were less likely to be endangered. Moreover, commonly cultivated species had fewer declining and more positive long‐term population trends compared to non‐cultivated species. Some evidence suggests that commonly cultivated plants recorded on the 1998 Red List as threatened are more likely to improve their status, yet still a considerable proportion is in decline.

These findings hint at a promising role of gardens as a means to support native species populations, but they also underscore the need for a nuanced understanding of which species are most likely to benefit from cultivation.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Effects of various parameters on the mechanical properties of composite lozenge‐shaped core sandwich panels subjected to flat‐wise compression test
Authors: Zamani Farshad , Ghareghani Alireza , Hosseinnejad Farhad , Rostamiyan Yasser , Rahmani Ali
Published: March 2024

This paper studied the compressive behavior of a composite sandwich panel with a lozenge‐shaped core reinforced with graphene nanoparticles (GNPs) under different conditions. The fabrication process involves the utilization of Kevlar fibers and epoxy resin to construct the sandwich panels, followed by introducing polyurethane (PU) foam through vacuum‐assisted resin transfer molding (VARTM). Flat‐wise compression testing is conducted to assess the mechanical properties and behavior of the sandwich panels. The study investigates the effect of various parameters, including core angle, core height, weight percentage (wt%) of GNPs, and PU foam, on the compressive strength of the structure. The experimental results are validated through finite element simulation using ABAQUS software, and a satisfactory agreement is observed between the simulated and experimental data. The research findings indicate that the inclusion of 3 wt% of GNPs in the structure leads to a notable 25% enhancement in the compressive strength of the sandwich panel. However, when the GNP content was further increased to 0.4 wt%, a contrasting trend was observed and the strength of the structure decreased by about 12%. Furthermore, an increase in the core angle is associated with a substantial 46% improvement in the sandwich panel's strength. Conversely, an increase in the core height is found to cause an 18% reduction in the sandwich panel's strength. Also, the addition of PU foam results in a significant increase of approximately 42% and 58% in the strength and energy absorption of the sandwich panel, respectively. This comprehensive parametric study offers valuable insights to engineers and designers seeking to construct sandwich panels with optimal strength against compressive loads.

Highlights

Adding GNPs modifies the mechanical properties of the sandwich panel.

Adding 0.4% of GNPs leads to the reduction of the structure's strength.

Increasing the core angle increases the sandwich panel's strength.

Increasing the core height decreases the sandwich panel's strength.

PU foam significantly increases the sandwich panel's strength.
Poly (glycerol sebacate) – co – 2 – hydroxyethyl methacrylate bioelastomeric nanohydroxyapatite composites: Mechanical properties, thermal characteristics, and cytocompatibility studies
Authors: Roy Pratik , Sailaja R. R. N.
Published: March 2024

In this study bioelastomeric co‐polymer comprised of glycerol, sebacic acid, and 2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate, loaded with varied contents of nanohydroxyapatite (0%–8%) has been synthesized via polycondensation reaction. The mechanical properties, that is, tensile and compressive strength and modulus have been enhanced due to the addition of silane‐treated nanohydroxyapatite. The optimal mechanical properties for these nanocomposites have been found to be at 7% nanohydroxyapatite loading. X‐Ray diffraction analysis and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed efficient dispersion of nanohydroxyapatite throughout the matrix as particles and as well as agglomerates. The synthesized composite was found to be cytocompatible and showed excellent biocompatibility by forming thick apatite layers in simulated body fluid.

Highlights

Synthesis of PGS/nHA bioelastomeric nanocomposite via polycondensation.

Characterization of nanocomposite with FTIR, TGA, XRD, SEM, AFM.

Water absorption, bioactivity and cytocompatibility assessment.

In vitro degradation evaluation.
Effect of hexyl‐branched backbone size on the size distribution and coalescence of free volume around an amphiphilic molecule
Authors: Kavyani Sajjad , Soares João B. P. , Choi Phillip
Published: March 2024

We used molecular dynamics simulation to study the size distribution and coalescence of free volume around an amphiphilic molecule (nonyl ethoxylate (NE)) at a concentration of 0.5 wt% in blends of linear and branched polyethylene that contained a small four‐arm alkane (7,12 hexyl octadecane). The branched polyethylene chains had 10 and 82 hexyl branches/1000 backbone carbons. The coalescence dynamics (fluctuation of free volume in time) was quantified by the number of Fourier frequencies and the corresponding power (amplitude). In our previous work, we hypothesized that cavitation, the first step of environmental stress cracking observed experimentally, starts from the free volume coalescence at the interface between NE and polyethylene molecules and showed that hexyl branches in the branched polyethylene molecules suppress such coalescence, suggesting that cavitation, a much longer time scale process, could also be slowed down. The current work showed that the behavior of hexyl branches in branched polyethylene in a blend with linear polyethylene was similar to that in pure branched polyethylene, but that the hexyl branches in the 7,12 hexyl octadecane exhibited the opposite behavior. In particular, they intensified free volume coalescence, especially around the hydrophilic ethylene oxide segments of NE. The addition of 7,12 hexyl octadecane to branched polyethylene alone or blended with linear polyethylene does not seem to slow down free volume coalescence (cavitation), leading us to conclude that the effect of hexyl branches on the free volume coalescence around NE depends on the size of the backbone to which the branches are attached.

Highlights

Hexyl branches reduce free volume coalescence activities.

The longer the backbone is, the stronger the hexyl branch effect.

More coalescence activities occur on the hydrophilic segment of NE.
Nylon 66 short fiber reinforcement in EPDM power transmission belting: A path to enhanced mechanical performance
Authors: Muthukannan Pandy , Neethirajan Jeevanandham , Naskar Kinsuk
Published: March 2024

V‐belts are commonly used to transmit power between two distant pulleys. Therefore, a strong reinforcement for dimensional stability and thermomechanical properties are essential in power transmission belts. The influence of resorcinol formaldehyde resin (RFL) treated nylon short fibers in EPDM peroxide‐cured formulations was investigated, with concentrations ranging from 0 to 30 parts per hundred rubber (phr) in increments of five. The incorporation of nylon short fibers resulted in improved tensile and mechanical properties in EPDM vulcanizates. Specifically, the tensile stress at 100% elongation increased by 177% to (10.8 MPa), and the improvement in tear strength to 16.2% (75.7 N/mm) was observed. Among other functional requirements in a weak rubber like EPDM, enhanced tear strength is significant for its application in power transmission. Substantial reinforcement between the fiber‐elastomer matrix was confirmed via scanning electron microscopy, as evidenced by increased storage modulus (E′). Notably, there were no considerable effects on the curing rate or low‐temperature properties. Significant improvement in heat stability is observed through thermogravimetric analysis. These enhancements in mechanical and thermal properties might play a role in increased durability and performance in actual V‐ribbed belt applications.

Highlights

This manuscript describes the effect of treated nylon 66 short fiber on EPDM V‐belt compound.

A significant increase in storage modulus, tear strength, and thermal stability.

A belt is made using the experimental formulation and it meets the performance requirement.

Low fiber content (<15 phr) compounds are unsuitable for dimensional stability.

High fiber content (>25 phr) compounds pose processing challenges.
Combining extracellular matrix proteome and phosphoproteome of chickpea and meta‐analysis reveal novel proteoforms and evolutionary significance of clade‐specific wall‐associated events in plant
Authors: Narula Kanika , Sinha Arunima , Choudhary Pooja , Ghosh Sudip , Elagamey Eman , Sharma Archana , Sengupta Atreyee , Chakraborty Niranjan , Chakraborty Subhra
Published: March 2024

Extracellular matrix (ECM) plays central roles in cell architecture, innate defense and cell wall integrity (CWI) signaling. During transition to multicellularity, modular domain structures of ECM proteins and proteoforms have evolved due to continuous adaptation across taxonomic clades under different ecological niche. Although this incredible diversity has to some extent been investigated at protein level, extracellular phosphorylation events and molecular evolution of ECM proteoform families remains unexplored. We developed matrisome proteoform atlas in a grain legume, chickpea and performed meta‐analyses of 74 plant matrisomes. MS/MS analysis identified 1,424 proteins and 315 phosphoproteins involved in diverse functions. Cross‐species ECM protein network identified proteoforms associated with CWI maintenance system. Phylogenetic characterization of eighteen matrix protein families highlighted the role of taxon‐specific paralogs and orthologs. Novel information was acquired on gene expansion and loss, co‐divergence, sub functionalization and neofunctionalization during evolution. Modular networks of matrix protein families and hub proteins showed higher diversity across taxonomic clades than among organs. Furthermore, protein families differ in nonsynonymous to synonymous substitution rates. Our study pointed towards the matrix proteoform functionality, sequence divergence variation, interactions between wall remodelers and molecular evolution using a phylogenetic framework. This is the first report on comprehensive matrisome proteoform network illustrating presence of CWI signaling proteins in land plants.
Chain extension epoxide polymerization to well‐defined block polymers using a N‐Al Lewis pair catalyst
Authors: Keever Jared M. , Pedretti Benjamin J. , Brotherton Zachary W. , Imbrogno Jennifer , Kataoka Yuki , Baltzegar Jacob , Kambayashi Naoya , Lynd Nathaniel A.
Published: March 2024

Block polyethers comprised of poly(propylene oxide) (PPO) and poly(ethylene oxide) (PEG or PEO) segments form the basis of ABA‐type PEO‐b‐PPO‐b‐PEO poloxamer materials. The inverse architecture with an internal hydrophilic PEO segment flanked by hydrophobic blocks can be difficult to prepare with control of architecture by use of traditional anionic polymerization. These oxyanionic polymerizations are plagued by chain‐transfer‐to‐monomer side reactions that occur with substituted epoxides such as propylene oxide (PO). Herein, we report a new method for the preparation of block polymers through a controlled polymerization involving a N‐Al Lewis adduct catalyst and an aluminum alkoxide macroinitiator. The Lewis pair catalyst was able to chain‐extend commercial PEO macroinitiators to prepare di‐, tri‐, and pentablock polyethers with low dispersity and reasonable monomer tolerance. Chain extension was confirmed using size exclusion chromatography and diffusion ordered nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. The resulting block polymers were additionally analyzed with small‐angle X‐ray scattering to correlate the morphology to molecular architecture.
A retrospective cost‐effectiveness analysis of different cognitive‐behavioral therapy for insomnia intervention delivery approaches in adult cancer survivors
Authors: Pilehvari Asal , Recklitis Christopher J. , Zhou Eric S. , You Wen
Published: March 2024

Background

Cognitive‐behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT‐I) is considered the gold standard treatment for insomnia. Prior trials have delivered CBT‐I across a range of treatment sessions. Understanding the economics of varying treatment approaches is essential for future implementation considerations.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cost‐effectiveness analysis from the provider's perspective, comparing the implementation of a three‐session CBT‐I program for cancer survivors (CBT‐I‐CS) versus a stepped care treatment approach consisting of an initial single sleep education session followed by CBT‐I‐CS if elevated insomnia symptoms persisted. The effectiveness measure used was the percentage of participants whose insomnia had remitted by the end of each program.

Results

Stepped care delivery was more effective than CBT‐I‐CS alone, resulting in 35.4% more remitted patients by the end of the overall program. For a $480 willingness to pay threshold per percentage of remitted patients, stepped care CBT‐I‐CS reached a 98% probability of being cost‐effective, while CBT‐I‐CS alone had only a 2% probability. Larger group sessions in the first step of a stepped care delivery model resulted in more favorable cost‐effectiveness.

Conclusions

A stepped care delivery model may be a more cost‐effective approach if it can be implemented efficiently. These findings inform policies aimed at improving cancer survivors' access to much‐needed insomnia treatment in settings where financial resources for CBT‐I may be limited, and be an important barrier to treatment dissemination.

Clinical Trial Registration

These analyses were not registered.
Electroluminescence from Silicon‐Based Light‐Emitting Devices with Erbium‐Doped Ta2O5 Films
Authors: Xia Chengtao , Wang Ziwei , Jiang Shuming , Ji Ran , Lu Linlin , Yang Deren , Ma Xiangyang
Published: March 2024

The visible and near‐infrared (NIR) electroluminescence (EL) from the light‐emitting device (LED) based on the erbium (Er)‐doped Ta2O5 (Ta2O5:Er)/SiO2/Si structure is reported in this study. Wherein, an ≈10 nm thick SiO2 intermediate layer serves as an energy plateau for forming hot electrons, which initially transport from Si via trap‐assisted tunneling mechanism under sufficiently forward bias with the negative voltage connecting with Si. The hot electrons impact‐excite the Er3+ ions incorporated into the Ta2O5 host, leading to the Er‐related EL from the aforementioned LED. It is found that the 750 °Cannealed Ta2O5:Er films are desirable to act as the light‐emitting component. Despite that the Er‐related photoluminescence from the Ta2O5:Er film becomes stronger in turn with the Er‐doping content increasing from nominal 0.75, 1.5 to 3 mol%, it is the Ta2O5:Er film with Er‐doping content of nominal 1.5 mol% rather than 3 mol% that enables the LED to exhibit the strongest EL. Based on the EL lifetime measurement and the structural characterizations, it is believed that the enhanced non‐radiative interactions among the Er3+ ions and the substantial amorphousness of Ta2O5 host caused by the nominal 3 mol% Er‐doping are responsible for the weakened EL as mentioned above.
Statistical approaches to evaluate in vitro dissolution data against proposed dissolution specifications
Authors: Li Fasheng , Nickerson Beverly , Van Alstine Les , Wang Ke
Published: March 2024

In vitro dissolution testing is a regulatory required critical quality measure for solid dose pharmaceutical drug products. Setting the acceptance criteria to meet compendial criteria is required for a product to be filed and approved for marketing. Statistical approaches for analyzing dissolution data, setting specifications and visualizing results could vary according to product requirements, company's practices, and scientific judgements. This paper provides a general description of the steps taken in the evaluation and setting of in vitro dissolution specifications at release and on stability.
Quantum Anomaly Detection with a Spin Processor in Diamond
Authors: Chai Zihua , Liu Ying , Wang Mengqi , Guo Yuhang , Shi Fazhan , Li Zhaokai , Wang Ya , Du Jiangfeng
Published: March 2024

In the processing of quantum computation, analyzing and learning the pattern of the quantum data are essential for many tasks. Quantum machine learning algorithms cannot only deal with the quantum states generated in the preceding quantum procedures, but also the quantum registers encoding classical problems. In this work, the anomaly detection of quantum states encoding audio samples with a three‐qubit quantum processor consisting of solid‐state spins in diamond is experimentally demonstrated. By training the quantum machine with a few normal samples, the quantum machine can detect the anomaly samples with a minimum error rate of 15.4%. These results show the power of quantum anomaly detection in dealing with machine learning tasks and the potential to detect abnormal output of quantum devices.