bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Majority residents’ perceptions of ‘economic’ and ‘political’ refugees: Psychological processes underlying the flight‐reason bias
Authors: Knausenberger Judith , Hellmann Jens H. , Stanke Franziska A. , Bechler Inga , Haarmann Lea Sophie C. , Jehn Marvin , Echterhoff Gerald
Published: July 2024

Migrants who flee their home country for economic (vs. political) reasons often elicit more negative responses in receiving countries. We examined psychological processes underlying this flight‐reason bias, focusing on majority residents’ perceptions of migration circumstances and their emotional responses. In three preregistered studies (total N = 1394), participants read texts about an individual refugee (Studies 1 and 2) or groups of refugees (Study 3) who fled because of economic versus political reasons. Overall, participants perceived migration as less forced in the economic‐flight reason condition. Economic (vs. political) flight reasons also elicited less willingness to accept refugees. Additional analyses suggest that the flight‐reason bias was driven by greater perceived control of refugees over emigration (for perceived forcedness), by lower empathy (for willingness to accept refugees) and by lower perceived pre‐migration perils (for both outcomes) in the economic‐flight reason conditions. We discuss implications for political and humanitarian issues surrounding refugee immigration and integration.
Optimizing DFIG‐DC system performance via model predictive control: Torque ripple, DC voltage drop, and THD reduction
Authors: Babaei Mojtaba , Marashi Abbas Nazari , Liasi Sahand Ghaseminejad
Published: July 2024

In this study, two novel control methods are theoretically introduced as direct slip angle control (DSAC) and model predictive direct slip angle control (MPDSAC) for rotor side converter (RSC) of the standalone Doubly‐Fed Induction Generator (DFIG)‐DC system (S‐DFIG‐DC). The numerical analysis of the proposed methods demonstrated that the proposed DSAC method could reduce torque ripple and current harmonics, decrease the output DC voltage drop in fast changes of load condition, and have faster dynamic response. Also, the MPDSAC method could further diminish torque and flux ripple, current harmonics, and output DC voltage drop in sharp changes of load condition compared with the presented DSAC and direct torque control (DTC) methods. The sensitivity analysis of the proposed control methods is investigated at different operating conditions. The performance and usefulness of the DSAC and MPDSAC schemes are verified by various experiments and compared with the conventional DTC method.
Childhood myelodysplastic syndromes: Is cytoreductive therapy useful before allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation?
Authors: Le Calvez Baptiste , Jullien Maxime , Dalle Jean H. , Renard Cécile , Jubert Charlotte , Sterin Arthur , Paillard Catherine , Huynh Anne , Guenounou Sarah , Bruno Bénédicte , Gandemer Virginie , Buchbinder Nimrod , Simon Pauline , Pochon Cécile , Sirvent Anne , Plantaz Dominique , Kanold Justyna , Béné Marie C. , Rialland Fanny , Grain Audrey ,   Société Francophone de Greffe de Moelle et de Thérapie Cellulaire (SFGM‐TC)
Published: July 2024

For most patients with childhood myelodysplastic syndrome (cMDS), allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo‐HSCT) remains the only curative option. In the case of increased blasts (cMDS‐IB), the benefit of pretransplant cytoreductive therapy remains controversial. In this multicenter retrospective study, the outcomes of all French children who underwent allo‐HSCT for cMDS reported in the SFGM‐TC registry between 2000 and 2020 were analyzed (n = 84). The median age at transplantation was 10.2 years. HSCT was performed from matched sibling donors (MSD) in 29% of the cases, matched unrelated donors (MUD) in 44%, haploidentical in 6%, and cord blood in 21%. Myeloablative conditioning was used in 91% of cases. Forty‐eight percent of patients presented with cMDS‐IB at diagnosis (median BM blasts: 8%). Among them, 50% received pretransplant cytoreductive therapy. Five‐year overall survival (OS), cumulative incidence of nonrelapse mortality (NRM), and relapse were 67%, 26%, and 12%, respectively. Six‐month cumulative incidence of grade II–IV acute graft‐versus‐host disease was 46%. Considering the whole cohort, age under 12, busulfan/cyclophosphamide/melphalan conditioning or MUD were associated with poorer 5‐year OS. In the cMDS‐IB subgroup, pretransplant cytoreductive therapy was associated with a better OS in univariate analysis. This seems to be mainly due to a decreased NRM since no impact on the incidence of relapse was observed. Overall, those data may argue in favor of cytoreduction for cMDS‐IB. They need to be confirmed on a larger scale and prospectively.
Prognostic value of interleukin‐6 serum levels in hospitalized COVID‐19 patients: A case—control study in Iran
Authors: Shojaee Asiyeh , Rafiee Reza , Hosseinzadeh Masoud , Saboori Mohamad
Published: July 2024

Introduction

The coronavirus pandemic (COVID‐19) is an infectious disease with a high mortality rate that is challenging to treat. Cytokine storm is a crucial factor leading to acute respiratory distress syndrome in COVID‐19 patients. Identifying factors that predict the severity of the disease may be primarily prognostic to guide drug therapy. The objective of this study was to investigate the prognostic role of interleukin 6 (IL‐6) in the hospitalized patients infected with COVID‐19.

Methods

This case‐control study was conducted from October 2019 to April 2020 at Shahid Faqihi hospital in Iran. Fifty hospitalized COVID‐19 patients and 50 healthy individuals were included while controlling demographics and comorbidities. IL‐6 serum levels were measured and compared based on demographic characteristics (age, sex) and comorbidities in the case and control groups. Spearman rank correlation coefficient was also used to analyze the correlations between IL‐6 levels and lung involvement in COVID‐19 patients. Moreover, some laboratory parameters were compared based on the percentage of lung involvement.

Results

The level of IL‐6 in the case group was significantly higher than the control (p ˂ 0.001). We observed a positive and significant correlation between the level of IL‐6 and the severity of lung involvement (r = 0.0.79, p < 0.01). The median level of IL‐6 in patients who showed more than 75% lung involvement was 573 (IQR = 320−850).

Conclusion

Available evidence suggests that high levels of IL‐6 are associated with the severity of COVID‐19. According to the results, it could be proposed that inhibition of IL‐6 might be a target for therapeutic managements to reduce mortality in the patients with COVID‐19.
Pantoprazole and riluzole target H+/K+‐ATPases and pH‐sensitive K+ channels in pancreatic cancer cells
Authors: Deshar Ganga , Christensen Nynne M. , Novak Ivana
Published: July 2024

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) remains the most lethal cancer type. PDAC is characterized by fibrotic, hypoxic, and presumably acidic tumor microenvironment (TME). Acidic TME is an important player in tumor development, progression, aggressiveness, and chemoresistance. The dysregulation of ductal ion transporters/channels might contribute to extracellular pH (pHe) acidification and PDAC progression. Our aim was to test whether H+/K+‐ATPases and pH‐sensitive K+ channels contribute to these processes and could be targeted by clinically approved drugs. We used human pancreatic cancer cells adapted to various pHe conditions and grown in monolayers and spheroids. First, we created cells expressing pHoran4 at the outer plasma membrane and showed that pantoprazole, the H+/K+‐ATPase inhibitor, alkalinized pHe. Second, we used FluoVolt to monitor the membrane voltage (Vm) and showed that riluzole hyperpolarized Vm, most likely by opening of pH‐sensitive K+ channels such as TREK‐1. Third, we show that pantoprazole and riluzole inhibited cell proliferation and viability of monolayers and spheroids of cancer cells adapted to various pHe conditions. Most importantly, combination of the two drugs had significantly larger inhibitory effects on PDAC cell survival. We propose that co‐targeting H+/K+‐ATPases and pH‐sensitive K+ channels by re‐purposing of pantoprazole and riluzole could provide novel acidosis‐targeted therapies of PDAC.
Long‐term outcomes and patterns of relapse in patients with bilateral Wilms tumor or bilaterally predisposed unilateral Wilms tumor, a report from the COG AREN0534 study
Authors: Murphy Andrew J. , Brzezinski Jack , Renfro Lindsay A. , Tornwall Brett , Malek Marcus M. , Benedetti Daniel J. , Cost Nicholas G. , Smith Ethan A. , Aldrink Jennifer , Romao Rodrigo L. P. , Dome Jeffrey S. , Davidoff Andrew M. , Treece Amy L. , Parsons Lauren N. , Mullen Elizabeth A. , Shamberger Robert C. , Paulino Arnold C. , Lo Andrea C. , Geller James I. , Ehrlich Peter F.
Published: July 2024

The objective of this study is to report the long‐term timing and patterns of relapse for children enrolled in Children's Oncology Group AREN0534, a multicenter phase III clinical trial conducted from 2009 to 2015. Participants included children with bilateral Wilms tumor (BWT) or unilateral WT with genetic predisposition to develop BWT followed for up to 10 years. Smoothed hazard (risk) functions for event‐free survival (EFS) were plotted so that the timing of events could be visualized, both overall and within pre‐specified groups. Two hundred and twenty‐two children (190 BWT and 32 unilateral WT with BWT predisposition) were followed for a median of 8.6 years. Fifty events were reported, of which 48 were relapse/progression. The overall 8‐year EFS was 75% (95% confidence interval: 69%–83%). The highest risk for an EFS event was immediately after diagnosis with a declining rate over 2 years. A second peak of events was observed around 4 years after diagnosis, and a small number of events were reported until the end of the follow‐up period. In subset analyses, later increases in risk were more commonly observed in patients with female sex, anaplastic histology, negative lymph nodes or margins, and favorable histology Wilms tumor patients with post‐chemotherapy intermediate risk. Among relapses that occurred after 2 years, most were to the kidney. These patterns suggest that late events may be second primary tumors occurring more commonly in females, although more investigation is required. Clinicians may consider observation of patients with BWT beyond 4 years from diagnosis.
Tailoring lithium intercalation pathway in 2D van der Waals heterostructure for high‐speed edge‐contacted floating‐gate transistor and artificial synapses
Authors: Yu Jun , Fu Jiawei , Ruan Hongcheng , Wang Han , Yu Yimeng , Wang Jinpeng , He Yuhui , Wu Jinsong , Zhuge Fuwei , Ma Ying , Zhai Tianyou
Published: July 2024

Local phase transition in transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs) by lithium intercalation enables the fabrication of high‐quality contact interfaces in two‐dimensional (2D) electronic devices. However, controlling the intercalation of lithium is hitherto challenging in vertically stacked van der Waals heterostructures (vdWHs) due to the random diffusion of lithium ions in the hetero‐interface, which hinders their application for contact engineering of 2D vdWHs devices. Herein, a strategy to restrict the lithium intercalation pathway in vdWHs is developed by using surface‐permeation assisted intercalation while sealing all edges, based on which a high‐performance edge‐contact MoS2 vdWHs floating‐gate transistor is demonstrated. Our method avoids intercalation from edges that are prone to be random but intentionally promotes lithium intercalation from the top surface. The derived MoS2 floating‐gate transistor exhibits improved interface quality and significantly reduced subthreshold swing (SS) from >600 to 100 mV dec–1. In addition, ultrafast program/erase performance together with well‐distinguished 32 memory states are demonstrated, making it a promising candidate for low‐power artificial synapses. The study on controlling the lithium intercalation pathways in 2D vdWHs offers a viable route toward high‐performance 2D electronics for memory and neuromorphic computing purposes.

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A review of lysimeters from the perspective of measurement performance and intelligent development in China
Authors: Gao Zehai , Yang Dongzhe , Li Chengcheng , Zhang Jianfeng , Wang Quanjiu
Published: July 2024

Lysimeters are critical instruments for studying infiltration, runoff and evapotranspiration processes in the hydrological cycle and play a critical role in promoting efficient water‐saving irrigation. This paper provides a systematic review of the development process and research status of lysimeters, progressing from simple to complex designs, from single instruments to clusters, and from manual measurement to intelligent monitoring. The working principles of various types of lysimeter were first described based on Chinese lysimeter patents over the past 20 years. Second, this paper analyses the measurement performance and application scope of different lysimeters and further studies the weighting stability of various weighing lysimeters. Third, by analysing sources of measurement error, the reliability improvement methods of lysimeters are analysed from the aspects of environment control and sensor compensation. Fourth, this paper reviews typical research on the automation and informatization of lysimeters and discusses future intelligent developments and application prospects for lysimeters in complex environments. Finally, the measurement performance of different lysimeters is analysed based on experimental data sets. This paper puts forward some suggestions for developing lysimeters with high performance, high efficiency and high reliability, hoping to promote the development of intelligent agriculture.
Examining the factors of fertilizer pricing
Authors: Wongpiyabovorn Oranuch , Hart Chad
Published: July 2024

A strong surge in fertilizer prices in 2021 led farmers and policymakers to question the factors that drive fertilizer pricing. This study examines the relationship among natural gas, corn, and fertilizer prices, finding five structural breaks from 1997 to 2022. The pass‐through rates of natural gas and corn price changes to fertilizer prices show significant shifts after the passage of the biofuel mandate, with those changes fading as the market matured. Meanwhile, natural gas price changes are the main contributing factor in the latest period. However, the linkage among these prices continues to evolve and is likely to diminish over time.
Evaluation of diseases complicating long COVID: A retrospective chart review
Authors: Tsuchida Tomoya , Hirose Masanori , Fujii Hirotoshi , Hisatomi Ryunosuke , Ishizuka Kosuke , Inoue Yoko , Katayama Kohta , Nakagama Yu , Kido Yasutoshi , Matsuda Takahide , Ohira Yoshiyuki
Published: July 2024

Background

Evidence for the pathogenesis and treatment of postacute coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) (long COVID) is lacking. As long COVID symptoms are predicted to have an impact on the global economy, clarification of the pathogenesis is urgently needed. Our experiences indicated that some symptoms were complicated by diseases established before the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Methods

Using a retrospective, cross‐sectional study, we aimed to evaluate the diseases complicating long COVID. Using the medical records of patients with confirmed COVID‐19 exhibiting residual symptoms lasting ≥60 days postinfection who visited our clinic in January 2021–February 2023, we investigated the symptoms and diseases observed. We identified diseases that occurred after COVID‐19 and excluded those that were exacerbations of existing diseases.

Results

During the first visit, the most common symptoms reported in a total of 798 patients were fatigue (523 patients), anxiety (349 patients), and lack of motivation (344 patients). Complicating diseases were observed in 452 patients (57%). There were 115, 65, and 60 patients with postural tachycardia syndrome, postural syndrome without tachycardia, and mood disorders, respectively. Some diseases requiring immediate treatment included pulmonary thromboembolism, purulent shoulder arthritis, cerebellopontine angle tumors, myasthenia gravis, and cervical myelopathy.

Conclusion

Not all symptoms that occur after COVID‐19 should be treated as long COVID. Similar to normal medical treatment, a list of differential diagnoses should be maintained based on symptoms to obtain definitive diagnoses.
Analysing public policies for the creative economy: A systematic literature review
Authors: da Silva Ana Maria Vicente , Muzzio Henrique , da Silveira Denis Silva
Published: July 2024

This paper seeks to conduct a comprehensive literature review analysing governmental initiatives, particularly public policies, pertaining to the needs of the creative economy (CE). The uniqueness of this paper lies in its unprecedented examination of literature on governmental actions for the CE. The methodology involved executing a rigorous systematic review of literature drawn from multiple credible research sources. The primary objective was to identify the stimuli, impediments and formulation processes across various sectors within the CE. The findings uncover a wide array of stimuli that policymakers can employ to foster the CE. We offer recommendations for constructing a policy framework.
Eosinophilic myenteric ganglionitis: A case in a 14‐year‐old‐male
Authors: Price Anthony , Rastegarlari Tandis , Khowaja Sanober , Thompson Kade , Lahiji Arian P. , Felicella Michelle M. , He Jing , Goodwin Annie
Published: July 2024

Chronic intestinal pseudo‐obstruction (CIPO) is a rare, severe, and often debilitating condition that can result in significant morbidity and mortality amongst the pediatric population. Eosinophilic myenteric ganglionitis (EMG) is a rare inflammatory neuropathy of the myenteric plexus with characteristic eosinophilic infiltration with and without hypogangliosis. The disorder has been previously documented as a cause of CIPO. We report the case of a 14‐year‐old male with no clear obstructive cause who, after multiple visits with a myriad of tests and workups, underwent surgical exploratory laparoscopy with the pathology returning a diagnosis of EMG with unique lymphocytic and eosinophilic cell components.
Microscopic growth of pyridinium oxime based amphipathic on graphite: Effect of relative position of substituents
Authors: Chauhan Poonam , Saha Prithwidip , Gopakumar Thiruvancheril G. , Ramapanicker Ramesh
Published: July 2024

Amphipathic molecules with surfactant like properties have several applications ranging from healthcare to the chemical industry. Their ability to form thin films on surfaces with ordered and controllable patterns determines their applicability. Here, we report two pyridinium oxime‐based surfactants, which possess similar aggregation properties in solution, but exhibit substantially different assembly on highly oriented pyrolytic graphite (HOPG) surface. The two compounds are regioisomers with the oxime unit placed either in meta or para position of the pyridinium ring. While the para isomer assembled to anisotropic one‐dimensional (1D) islands and long rod‐like structures, the meta isomer formed two‐dimensional (2D) islands on the HOPG surface. This difference is rationalized through molecular level force‐field calculations that show anisotropy in the growth of the para isomer resulting from an effective overlap of the alkyl chains and oxime groups, which is distinctly not feasible in the assembly of the meta isomer. The assembly of these compounds is compared with another oxime‐containing compound of similar structure, but without the charged pyridinium unit. The charged unit seems to be crucial for the preferential formation of multilayer islands even at low coverage.
Immune checkpoint expression as prognostic biomarker candidates in non‐small cell lung carcinoma patients
Authors: Porto Débora Maria , Costa Guilherme Jorge , Torres Leuridan Cavalcante , Casarini Dulce Elena
Published: July 2024

Background

Cancer immunotherapy has had an important role in oncologic therapeutics for patients with non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) using checkpoint inhibitors. We will explore the possible prognosis biomarker candidates such as: soluble OX40 (sOX40), OX40L (sOX40L), Glucocorticoid‐induced tumor necrosis factor receptor family‐related receptor (GITR), and their ligand (GITRL), 4‐1BB or tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily 9 (TNFRS9) and inducible T cell co‐stimulator (ICOS) in peripheral blood of NSCLC patients.

Methods

Fifty‐eight patients were diagnosed with advanced NSCLC between January 2019 and March 2020.

Results

High sOX40 and low s4‐1BB levels in smokers compared non‐smoker NSCLC patients. Lower sOX40L levels were found in the male than female (p < 0.05). High sOX40 and sGITRL in stage III compared to the stage IV (p < 0.05). With follow‐up at 21.4 months, 44.1% and 91.1% were alive in the sGITRhigh and sGITRlow groups, respectively (p = 0.02), and 73.3% and 27.7% were alive in the sGITRLhigh and sGITRLlow groups, respectively (p = 0.02). At 22 months, 38.7% and 92.3% were alive in the sOX40Lhigh and sOX40Llow groups, respectively (p = 0.01).

Conclusion

sGITR, sGITRL, and sOX40L levels were potential prognostic biomarkers and could have an important role as new targets of immunotherapy in NSCLC patients. sGITR, sGITRL, sOX40L, and sOX40 levels were associated with smoking, sex, stage, and age in NSCLC.
Concentration of High‐Cost Head and Neck Cancer Surgical Patients
Authors: Garcia Jordan , Yesantharao Lekha , Frick Kevin D. , Fakhry Carole , Koch Wayne , Mydlarz Wojtech , Eisele David W. , Gourin Christine G.
Published: July 2024

Objective

Health care costs are disproportionately concentrated among a small number of patients. We sought to identify variables associated with high‐cost patients and high hospital concentration of high‐cost patients and to examine associations with short‐term outcomes in head and neck cancer (HNCA) surgery.

Study Design

The Nationwide Inpatient Sample was used to identify 170,577 patients who underwent HNCA surgery in 2001–2011. High‐cost patients were defined as patients whose costs of care were in the top decile, and high‐concentration hospitals were defined as those whose percentage of high‐cost patients was in the top decile.

Methods

Multivariable regression was used to evaluate associations between cost and patient and hospital variables, postoperative complications, and in‐hospital mortality.

Results

Costs associated with high‐cost patients were 4.47‐fold greater than the remaining 90% of patients. High‐concentration hospitals treated 36% of all high‐cost patients. High‐cost patients were more likely to be non‐white (OR = 2.08 [1.45–2.97]), have oral cavity cancer (OR = 1.21 [1.05–1.39]), advanced comorbidity (OR = 1.53 [1.31–1.77]), Medicaid (OR = 1.93 [1.62–2.31]) or self‐pay payor status (OR = 1.72 [1.38–2.14]), income>50th percentile (OR = 1.25 [1.05–1.51]), undergo major procedures (OR = 3.52 [3.07–4.05]) and have non‐routine discharge (OR = 7.50 [6.01–9.35]). High‐concentration hospitals were more likely to be teaching hospitals (OR = 3.14 [1.64–6.05]) and less likely to be urban (OR = 0.20 [0.04–0.93]). After controlling for all other variables, high‐cost patients were associated with an increased odds of mortality (OR = 8.00 [5.89–10.85]) and postoperative complications (OR = 5.88 [5.18–6.68]). High‐concentration hospitals were associated with an increased odds of postoperative complications (OR = 1.31 [1.08–1.61]) but were not associated with increased mortality (OR = 0.98 [0.67–1.44]).

Conclusions

High‐cost HNCA surgical patients are associated with increased postoperative morbidity and mortality, and are disproportionately concentrated at teaching hospitals.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 134:4971–4978, 2024
“Quantifying the Impacts of Multiple Stressors” (QIMS)—a new experimental platform for robust multifactorial experiments in benthic ecosystems
Authors: Schertenleib Katrin , Fitzpatrick Robert , O'Connor Nessa E.
Published: July 2024

To predict the ecological consequences of expected global change, we need to understand the independent and combined effects of multiple stressors. Multiple experimental treatments are required to simultaneously test for effects of multiple stressors at different levels of intensity, independently and combined, and at different levels of biological organization. Most marine multiple stressors studies to date are conducted on assembled communities in mesocosms with a low number of treatments or low replication of treatments or both. These limitations prevent (1) robust data analyses, (2) characterization of single and combined effects of multiple stressors, and (3) identification of mechanisms underpinning biological responses. We present a new mesocosm‐based experimental platform for benthic communities: Quantifying the Impacts of Multiple Stressors (QIMS). Here, 96 independent mesocosms facilitate multifactorial and multilevel experimental designs with the high replication required for robust tests of multiple stressors and biological interactions. For example, three distinct pH levels are achieved by manipulating CO2 concentrations in the air supply, and three water temperature levels are provided by a cooling system in a fully crossed design that is required to identify all potential interactions, from which all combinations can be replicated 10 times (i.e., 90 experimental units). We demonstrate clearly how different levels of temperature and pCO2/pH can be manipulated precisely and maintained for at least 7 weeks. QIMS complements the limited number of permanently installed marine mesocosm facilities worldwide that simulate ocean warming and/or acidification and expedites multiple stressor research by providing an unprecedented level of replication for statistical robustness.
Size normalizing planktonic Foraminifera abundance in the water column
Authors: Chaabane Sonia , de Garidel‐Thoron Thibault , Giraud Xavier , Meilland Julie , Brummer Geert‐Jan A. , Jonkers Lukas , Mortyn P. Graham , Greco Mattia , Casajus Nicolas , Kucera Michal , Sulpis Olivier , Kuroyanagi Azumi , Howa Hélène , Beaugrand Gregory , Schiebel Ralf
Published: July 2024

Planktonic Foraminifera have been collected from the water column with different plankton sampling devices equipped with nets of various mesh sizes, which impedes direct comparison of observed quantifications. Here, we use data on the community size structure of planktonic Foraminifera to assess the impact of mesh size on the measured abundance (ind m−3) of planktonic Foraminifera. We use data from the FORCIS database (Chaabane et al., 2023, Scientific Data 10: 354) on the global ocean at different sampling depths over the past century. We find a global cumulative increase in abundance with size, which is best described using a Michaelis–Menten function. This function yields multiplication factors by which one size fraction can be normalized to any other size fraction equal to or larger than 100 μm. The resulting size normalization model is calibrated over a range of different depth intervals, and validated with an independent dataset from various depth ranges. The comparison to Berger's (1969, Deep. Res. Oceanogr. Abstr. 16: 1–24) equivalent catch approach shows a significant increase in the predictive skill of the model. The new size normalization scheme enables comparison of Foraminifera abundance data sampled with plankton nets of different mesh sizes, such as compiled in the FORCIS database. The correction methodology may be effectively employed for various other plankton groups such as diatoms and dinoflagellates.
Prescription Drug Utilization among Patients with Essential Tremor: A Cross‐Sectional Study of More Than 36,000 Patients
Authors: Kapinos Kandice A. , Louis Elan D.
Published: July 2024

Background

Essential tremor (ET) is a chronic, progressive neurological disease that affects an estimated 7 million individuals in the United States (ie, 2.2% of the entire U.S. population). Despite its high prevalence, there are a few published studies on patterns of prescription medication use among patients.

Objective

The aim was to examine prescription drug medication use among ET patients.

Methods

This is a cross‐sectional study of ET patients, age ≥40, with at least 1 prescription medication fill using the Optum's de‐identified Clinformatics Data Mart Database from 2018 through 2019. We examined patterns of fills of key agents used to treat ET.

Results

The final sample comprised 36,839 ET patients in the United States; 89% had at least 1 prescription drug claim over a 2‐year period, indicating that 9 of 10 ET patients take a medication to treat their disease. For each of the 3 most frequently prescribed medications, only a modest fraction (1/5 to 1/4) of patients were taking that medication. Adherence to these agents was 52% to 61%. A high percentage of patients had fills for more than 1 of the main agents we studied.

Conclusion

These data illustrate a need for medication in the ET population. There is only 1 FDA‐approved medication to treat ET, propranolol, and less than 25% of ET patients used this drug during our study period. At the same time, no single agent was utilized by more than one quarter of ET patients, adherence was low, and use of multiple agents was common. For such a common disease, the pharmacotherapeutic landscape is impoverished.
Impact of policy interventions on low‐carbon technology innovation diffusion in supply networks
Authors: Wang Zehao , Feng Yu , Yao Nana , Lin Ouwen , Li Qiyuan , Liu Bowen
Published: July 2024

The promotion of sustainability and innovation in the current dynamic landscape of global industry in the context of climate change has become imperative. This research paper explores the critical role of policy interventions in facilitating the diffusion of low‐carbon technologies through intricate supply networks. As countries endeavor to meet environmental goals and transition to a more sustainable economy, it becomes critical to understand how policies can effectively shape the diffusion of these technologies through the supply chain. This study employs game theory and evolutionary game theory to investigate the intricate interactions within supply networks, with a particular focus on the nuanced effects of policy on the diffusion of low‐carbon technology innovations. The findings suggest that dynamically adjusted policies have the potential to significantly increase the uptake of low‐carbon technologies. In particular, an effective subsidy scheme not only promotes the diffusion of innovations, but also demonstrates the ability of government subsidies to be distributed efficiently. In addition, the implementation of dynamic carbon trading schemes is considered to be an important mechanism for promoting firms' decarbonization and stabilizing strategic decision‐making processes within firms. This study highlights the significance of tailored dynamic policy frameworks in promoting the adoption of sustainable technologies in supply chains, thus making a significant contribution to the broader goal of achieving a sustainable future.
Impact of hunting cooperation in predator and anti‐predator behaviors in prey in a predator–prey model
Authors: Li Yan , Ding Mengyue
Published: July 2024

In this paper, we propose a predator–prey model with hunting cooperation in predator and anti‐predator behaviors in prey. The conditions for the existence and the stability of the unique positive constant equilibrium are given. It is found that with the increasing of the birth rate
of the prey, the trivial solution loses its stability, and the semi‐trivial solution emerges and also loses its stability. For the positive constant solution, we find that as the hunting cooperation
in predator increases or the fear
decreases, the positive constant equilibrium loses its stability, and Hopf bifurcation occurs. We also derive the existence of limit cycles by Poincaré‐Bendixson theorem. We also study a diffusive model and derive that self‐diffusion can induce Turing instability. Finally, we conduct numerical simulations to present our conclusions.
The Relationship between Diet, Depression, and Alzheimer's Disease: A Narrative Review
Authors: Al Shamsi Hilal Salim Said , Rainey‐Smith Stephanie R. , Gardener Samantha L. , Sohrabi Hamid R. , Canovas Rodrigo , Martins Ralph N. , Fernando Warnakulasuriya Mary Ann Dipika Binosha
Published: July 2024

Purpose of Review

This narrative review evaluates the role of diet in the relationship between depression and Alzheimer's disease (AD).

Recent Findings

AD and depression are often comorbid, and depression appears to independently increase the future risk of AD. Evidence suggests diet influences the risk of both conditions directly and indirectly. Diet impacts neurochemical and biological processes that may affect the development and progression of depression and cognitive dysfunction. The dietary components offering the greatest protection against depression and AD are yet to be determined. Current evidence highlights the importance of polyphenolic compounds, folate, B vitamins, and polyunsaturated fatty acids, along with adherence to dietary patterns like the Mediterranean diet, which includes multiple beneficial dietary factors.

The investigation of dietary factors in the prevention of depression and AD is a comparatively young field of research. Comprehensive highly characterised longitudinal datasets and advanced analytical approaches are required to further examine the complex relationship between diet, depression, and AD. There is a critical need for more research in this area to develop effective preventive strategies aimed at maintaining mental and physical health with advancing age.
A new, standardized international Pacific Rim baseline for genetic stock identification (GSI) of Chinook Salmon
Authors: Van Doornik Donald M. , Moran Paul , Rondeau Eric B. , Nichols Krista M. , Narum Shawn R. , Campbell Matthew R. , Clemento Anthony J. , Hargrove John S. , Hess Jon E. , Horn Rebekah L. , Seeb Lisa W. , Stephenson Jeff J. , McKinney Garrett J.
Published: July 2024

Objective

Genetic stock identification (GSI) can be an effective tool for fisheries management, but development of reference baselines for species with broad geographic distributions can be challenging. Mixed-stock fisheries for Chinook Salmon Oncorhynchus tshawytscha have utilized GSI analyses for decades with various genetic baselines, but these have largely become outdated with advances in technology that enable more efficient genotyping. Thus, our goals were to (1) create nested baselines of genotypic data for Chinook Salmon throughout their entire natural range using existing data from multiple sources and (2) evaluate the utility of those nested baselines to conduct accurate hierarchical GSI of mixture proportions or the stock identification of individual fish.

Methods

In this study, we compiled a large genetic baseline of single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers for 389 populations that encompass the entire geographic range of Chinook Salmon. We used cross validation and realistic mixture simulations to test the accuracy of the baseline in generating GSI estimates.

Result

We demonstrated that a multi-tiered assignment approach can provide high accuracy at both tier 1 (broadscale, with three coastwide reporting groups; 97.8% mean accuracy) and tier 2 (fine-scale regional reporting groups; up to 97.7% mean accuracy) levels. Realistic mixture simulations showed that this multi-tiered approach can provide highly effective GSI results for several common mixed-stock fisheries applications in the Pacific Ocean.

Conclusion

This new SNP baseline and the multi-tiered assignment approach provide the most comprehensive rangewide GSI baseline for Chinook Salmon over any previous application and enable highly accurate estimates for GSI purposes.
Poly(ester amide) from 6‐amino‐1‐hexanol and terephthalic acid: preparation and properties
Authors: Xiao Liwen , Cheng Kan , Liu Tao , Xia Yumin , Wang Xueli , He Yong
Published: July 2024

Poly(ester amide)s (PEAs) have received extensive attention due to their unique chemical structure and excellent properties. In this paper, a novel PEA (P6T6T) was prepared through melt polycondensation of terephthalic acid (PTA) and 6T6‐diamide‐diol (6T6), which was from the amidation of 6‐amino‐1‐hexanol and PTA. The structures were characterized by nuclear magnetic resonance, fourier transform infrared, and wide‐angle X‐Ray diffraction, and the thermal properties were evaluated by differential scanning calorimetry and thermal gravimetric analysis for P6T6T. It was found that the melting point of P6T6T was 217°C, which was about 37°C lower than that of PET (254°C), while the initial decomposition temperature was maintained at about 381°C. P6T6T had a fast crystallization rate (the half time of crystallization (t1/2) range from 35 to 60 s) and great crystallization properties. The saturated water absorption of the P6T6T was measured to be 2.53 wt%, which was three times that of PET (0.83 wt%). Furthermore, the water contact angle of P6T6T was determined to be 57.3°C, much lower than that of PET (94.7°C). All these results suggest that the incorporation of amide was an efficient method to improve the water absorption of polyester fibers.
Largely enhanced high‐temperature energy storage performance of P(VDF‐HFP) dielectric films via calcium niobate nanosheets
Authors: Lin Zhiming , Bao Zhiwei , Wang Baoyuan , Wang Bingbo , Wang Ziquan , Han Donglin , Qiang Yu , Hou Ying , Li Xiaoguang
Published: July 2024

The capacitive energy‐storage capacity of most emerging devices rapidly diminishes with increasing temperature, making high‐temperature dielectrics particularly desirable in modern electronic systems. In this work, calcium niobate (Ca2Nb3O10, CNO) nanosheets have been added into poly(vinylidene fluoride‐hexafluoropropylene) (P(VDF‐HFP), PVHP), forming PVHP/CNO nanocomposites with exceptional temperature stability and ultrahigh energy storage density. Especially, at 80°C and 450 MV/m, the PVHP/0.3 wt%CNO nanocomposite shows an excellent Wrec of 10.81 J/cm3 which is higher than previous PVDF‐based composite films at high temperatures. Because of the high dielectric permittivity of CNO nanosheets and the way that the parallel organization of the nanosheets blocks the course of electrical trees, nanocomposites exhibit greater dielectric constants and breakdown field strengths simultaneously. These findings, will be helpful in the development of flexible, high‐energy‐density capacitors that have stable performance at high temperatures.

Highlights

A record‐high high‐temperature Wrec is obtained.

Excellent temperature stability from 25 to 80°C is achieved.

The incorporation of Ca2Nb3O10 nanosheets significantly enhances Eb.
Experimental and finite element analysis of ballistic properties of composite armor made of alumina, carbon and UHMWPE
Authors: Mutu Halil Burak , Özer Alaettin
Published: July 2024

The performance of multi‐layer ceramic/composite ballistic armor consisting of Alumina, Carbon fiber, and Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene (UHMWPE) under the impact of 7.62 × 51 M61 caliber armor‐piercing (AP) bullets was examined by experimental and finite element methods. The alumina ceramic thickness used in the experiments is 12 mm. The composite structure thickness used in all samples is 10 mm. Explicit dynamic analyses were also conducted using the Ls‐Dyna to verify the experimental studies. The analysis results were compared with experimental studies and evaluated by considering the damage status of the bullet and armor. According to ballistic test results, partial penetration was observed in all armor produced. The front ceramic layer caused corrosion of the bullet, and a mushrooming effect occurred on it. The carbon fiber layer has dramatically helped as an alternative or support to UHMWPE. Since the results obtained with the carbon fiber ratios used remain within the standards, it will not pose a problem regarding usage. On the contrary, using carbon fiber, which is relatively easier to produce and supply than UHMWPE and more economically suitable, will provide more significant benefits. Experimental and numerical studies have revealed consistent results for all armors.

Highlights

The effect of a 7.62 × 51 armor‐piercing bullet on ceramic/composite armor was examined.

Carbon fiber and UHMWPE hybrid structure was created in different thicknesses.

The carbon fiber layer has dramatically helped as an alternative or support to UHMWPE.

Using carbon fiber, which is relatively easier to produce and supply than UHMWPE and is more economically suitable.

Experimental and numerical studies have revealed consistent results for all armors.
Association of Pharmacist Interventions With Adverse Drug Events and Potential Adverse Drug Events
Authors: Kelly W. N. , Ho M. J. , Smith T. , Bullers K. , Bates D. W. , Kumar A.
Published: July 2024

Background

Adverse drug events (ADEs) are a frequent cause of injury in patients. Our aim was to assess whether pharmacist interventions compared with no pharmacist intervention results in reduced ADEs and potential adverse drug events (PADEs).

Methods

We searched MEDLINE, Embase, and two other databases through September 19, 2022 for any RCT assessing the effect of a pharmacist intervention compared with no pharmacist intervention and reporting on ADEs or PADEs. The risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane tool for RCTs. A random‐effects model was used to pool summary results from individual RCTs.

Results

Fifteen RCTs met the inclusion criteria. The pooled results showed a statistically significant reduction in ADE associated with pharmacist intervention compared with no pharmacist intervention (RR = 0.86; [95% CI 0.80–0.94]; p = 0.0005) but not for PADEs (RR = 0.79; [95% CI 0.47–1.32]; p = 0.37). The heterogeneity was insignificant (I2 = 0%) for ADEs and substantial (I2 = 77%) for PADEs. Patients receiving a pharmacist intervention were 14% less likely for ADE than those who did not receive a pharmacist intervention. The estimated number of patients needed to prevent one ADE across all patient locations was 33.

Conclusions

To our knowledge, this is the first systematic review and meta‐analysis of RCTs seeking to understand the association of pharmacist interventions with ADEs and PADEs. The risk of having an ADE is reduced by a seventh for patients receiving a pharmacist care intervention versus no such intervention. The estimated number of patients needed to be followed across all patient locations to prevent one preventable ADE across all patient locations is 33.
Reliability of the ICD‐11 personality disorder severity ratings and diagnosis
Authors: Aydın‐Seyrek Tuğba , Gandur Tarık , Turgut Neslihan , Kunt Duygu Aslan , Dereboy Ferhan
Published: July 2024

The present study aimed to investigate the interrater reliability of the dichotomous and dimensional personality disorder (PD) diagnoses based on the overall severity assessment on a rating form consisting of 18 anchored items encompassing diagnostic requirements of the International Classification of Diseases 11th Revision (ICD‐11). We also aimed to examine the extent of consistency within the diagnostic requirements grouped under the domains of self‐ and interpersonal functioning, specific manifestations of personality dysfunction, and distress and impairment in psychosocial functioning. Our data involved a total of 184 inter‐ratings of 46 consenting patients by the same set of four clinicians. The chance‐corrected agreement levels were estimated at intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) = 0.89 for the overall severity composite, ICC = 0.83 for the dimensional PD diagnosis and Fleiss' kappa = 0.77 for the dichotomous PD diagnosis. Internal consistency analysis of the overall severity composite and the domain composites revealed Cronbach's alpha coefficients approaching or exceeding 0.90 level. Our findings suggest that the diagnostic requirements listed in the ICD‐11 and related documents for the severity determination in PD compose an internally consistent set. With the guidance of a rating form comprised of anchored items covering this set, competency‐level clinicians are likely to perform reliable evaluations of the severity of personality disturbance, and dimensional and dichotomous PD diagnoses. The development of semi‐structured interviews that would further facilitate the task of inspecting and rating each diagnostic requirement reliably will possibly enhance the implementation of the ICD‐11 classification for PD around the world.
Optical emission characterization of an atmospheric pressure dielectric barrier discharge in nitrogen: Evolution of CN emissions during PTFE etching
Authors: Destrieux Alex , Caceres Ferreira Williams M. , Costantino Zachary , Profili Jacopo , Laroche Gaetan
Published: July 2024

The present work investigates the etching of coated polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) films using an atmospheric pressure dielectric barrier discharge operating in nitrogen in a filamentary regime. For different treatment durations, the optical emission spectra were recorded over time. Most of the emissions are attributed to the N2 second positive system. The presence of CN is also observed, and its emissions rise with the exposure time of PTFE. This rise is attributed to the density of CN produced. The X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy surface characterization suggests two etching regimes. This is linked with a change in slope in the intensity evolution of the optical emissions of the CN. At longer times, a fluorinated deposit on the electrode is observed, confirming a different nature of the etched material.
Deprescribing in people living with frailty, multimorbidity and polypharmacy
Authors: Oboh Lelly
Published: July 2024

Deprescribing is complex, and it should consider the individual context and embrace patient centredness and collaborative teamwork, including patients, relatives and/or caregivers. This article discusses the growing evidence supporting deprescribing in older patients and the barriers and challenges involved.
A literature review of drug transport mechanisms during lactation
Authors: Gong Christine , Bertagnolli Lynn N. , Boulton David W. , Coppola Paola
Published: July 2024

Despite the benefits of breastfeeding, lactating mothers who take prescribed medications may discontinue breastfeeding due to concerns associated with infant drug exposure in breastmilk. Consolidating the current knowledge of drug transport to breastmilk may inform understanding of the safety of medication use during lactation. This literature review summarizes the mechanisms of drug transport to breastmilk, details the physicochemical drug properties that may alter the extent of passive transport, and describes the expressional changes in mammary drug transporters that may affect active transport. During the period of 20 July 2023 to 11 August 2023, PubMed® was searched to identify journal articles pertinent to the mechanisms of drug transport from maternal plasma to breastmilk and the expression of mammary drug transporters during lactation. From the 28 studies included in this review, four mechanisms were identified for transporting drugs from maternal plasma to breastmilk: passive transport, active transport, lipid co‐transport, and transcytosis. The lactational expression of 20 drug transporters was further summarized, with 9 transporters demonstrating downregulated expression during lactation and 11 transporters demonstrating upregulated expression during lactation. Understanding the mechanisms of drug transport to breastmilk may aid in estimating infant drug exposure, developing physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) models that describe drug transfer, and initiating clinical drug development programs in the lactating population.