bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Casino Royale: A Comparative Analysis of Financial Literacy and Locus of Control on SMEs’ Financial Behavior
Authors: Meriam Andi , Angreyani Andi Dewi , Kurniawan Agung Widhi , Musa Muh. Ichwan , Mustafa Muh. Yushar
Published: September 2023

Knowledge is considered as the vital factor for firms in improving their capability and stability of SMEs, especially a financial literacy knowledge. Based on the literature, this study finds that due to lack of finance literacy knowledge, most of firms in Indonesia are not able to survive inside the business world that is full of competition and the dynamics of changing within particular periods. Unfortunately, lack of financial literacy knowledge also ultimately affects firms in Indonesia, particularly their financial behavior at both the organizational and individual levels, as well a locus of control of SME owners in controlling their business’s financial management. However, effective and efficient financial management behavior based on financial literacy knowledge and locus of control skills that are proportional to the context of firms tends to be something that is often overlooked by business people. Thus, a lot of literature indicates that almost all SMEs in Indonesia do not have adequate business financial performance reports as a condition for obtaining business loans from financial institutions. Therefore, with the support of the above issues, this study then aims to conduct a comparative study, through the approach of quantitative research method, from two major cities in Indonesia to explore and identify how much financial literacy and locus of control influence financial management behavior in 130 firms, which are small and medium-sized enterprises as sample size of this study. The findings of this study theoretically discover that financial literacy affects firm’s financial management behavior in both major cities of Indonesia, which are Makassar and Surabaya. The findings of this study are also expected to contribute positively to the managerial aspects, especially in providing detailed explanations and guidelines related to financial literacy, locus of control, and financial management behavior for policy makers as well as business owners. A detail recommendation for future research is also explained in the particular section of this paper.
Variáveis antropométricas, clínicas e medicamentosas de usuários de varfarina após acompanhamento farmacoterapêutico
Authors: Tremêa Greissi Tatieli Franke , Kleibert Karine Raquel Uhdich , Nunes Paula Lorenzoni , Staudt Keli Jaqueline , Schneider Aline , Colet Christiane de Fatima
Published: September 2023

Introdução: a varfarina é um medicamento anticoagulante para o tratamento de doenças cardíacas, tromboembólicas e de hipercoagulabilidade. É considerado potencialmente perigoso devido à janela terapêutica estreita e grande variabilidade de resposta. Objetivo: avaliar o impacto do acompanhamento farmacoterapêutico sobre o uso de medicamentos e interações medicamentosas de pacientes do sistema público de saúde que fazem uso de varfarina, bem como associar o acompanhamento às medidas clínicas de pressão arterial e o índice de massa corporal. Metodologia: 47 pacientes participaram da pesquisa, onde foi realizado um ensaio clínico randomizado de dois braços, paralelo e controlado, que compara o grupo intervenção (n=23), através do acompanhamento farmacoterapêutico em pacientes do sistema público de saúde do município de Ijuí que fazem uso de varfarina, com um grupo controle (n=24), sem acompanhamento farmacoterapêutico. Resultados: neste estudo não foi demonstrada associação do acompanhamento farmacoterapêutico e medidas antropométricas como IMC e circunferência abdominal, mas verifica-se a alta prevalência dessas variáveis alteradas, como sobrepeso e obesidade. Houve melhora da pressão arterial no grupo intervenção emcomparação ao grupo controle, o que demonstra o benefício do acompanhamento. Discussão: o controle da anticoagulação pode ser prejudicado por alimentação, uso de medicamentos, idade e doenças associadas, e seu uso requer o monitoramento dos níveis de INR e avaliação da adesão ao tratamento. Conclusão: os usuários de varfarina estão suscetíveis a sangramentos, tromboses, interações medicamentosas, além dos próprios fatores de risco decorrentes da obesidade, hipertensão e adiposidade abdominal, sendo fundamental o acompanhamento destes pacientes para se evitar possíveis efeitos negativos da medicação.
Sucessos e vicissitudes do ensino da bioética na graduação de medicina sob a perspectiva de docentes
Authors: Guimarães Cassia Regina Nogueira , Siqueira José Eduardo de , Fischer Marta Luciane
Published: September 2023

Introdução: o ensino da bioética na graduação médica se insere na perspectiva de uma sociedade que demanda pela retenção dos valores humanos. Objetivo: caracterizar a percepção de docentes de medicina de Instituições de Ensino Superior privada e pública de Londrina, Paraná a respeito dos sucessos e vicissitudes do porquê, o que, quando e como ensinar bioética na formação do médico. Metodologia: pesquisa quantitativa e transversal cujo instrumento visou testar as hipóteses de condicionantes o tempo de atividade docente; IES pública ou privada e o exercício da medicina em instituições públicas e privadas. Resultados: a pesquisa envolveu 105 docentes cuja maioria possuía alguma formação ou capacitação em bioética, o que evidenciou a concretude da compreensão da relevância da inserção da bioética no ensino médico e do papel do docente na formação moral do estudante. Enquanto o que, quando e como ensinar, todavia, se constituem como desafios para docência. Embora 59% dos participantes reconheceram o contexto da transversalidade, a imprecisão das confluências e divergências com a ética médica, o melhor período do curso para se trabalhar temáticas e as metodologias pedagógicas demandam de aprimoramento e capacitação, as quais foram associadas com atribuições das instituições. Conclusão: o processo de ensino da Bioética deve ser aperfeiçoado, almejando desenvolver a dimensão ética e moral tão necessária aos profissionais da medicina para que atendam as demandas da sociedade contemporânea.
Molecular Characterization in 3D Structure of MicroRNA Expressed in Leprosy
Authors: Andrade Luis Jesuino de Oliveira , Jesus Humberto Barreto de , Oliveira Luís Matos de , Oliveira Moema Farias de , Santana Laura Farias Caricchio , Oliveira Gabriela Correia Matos de
Published: September 2023

Introduction: Hansen's disease, or leprosy is caused by Mycobacterium leprae, is a major public health problem in developing countries, and affecting the skin and peripheral nerves. However, M. leprae can also affect bone tissue, mucous membranes, liver, eyes, and testicles, producing a variety of clinical phenotypes. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have been expressed in the various clinical forms of leprosy and could potentially be used for its diagnosis.

Objective: In silico design of the molecular structure of miRNAs expressed in leprosy. Method: We performed a nucleotide sequence search of 17 miRNAs expressed in leprosy, designing in silico the molecular structure of the following miRNAs: miRNA-26a, miRNA-27a, miRNA-27b, miRNA-29c, miRNA-34c, miRNA-92a-1, miRNA-99a-2, miRNA-101-1, miRNA-101-2, miRNA-125b-1, miRNA-196b, miRNA-425-5p, miRNA-452, miRNA-455, miRNA-502, miRNA-539, and miRNA-660. We extracted the nucleotides were from the GenBank of National Center for Biotechnology Information genetic sequence database. We aligned the extracted sequences with the RNA Folding Form, and the three-dimensional molecular structure design was performed with the RNAComposer.

Results: We demonstrate the nucleotide sequences, and molecular structure projection of miRNAs expressed in leprosy, and produces a tutorial on the molecular model of the 17 miRNAs expressed in leprosy through in silico projection processing of their molecular structures.

Conclusion: We demonstrate in silico design of selected molecular structures of 17 miRNAs expressed in leprosy through computational biology.
Multi‐Modal Modular Textile Sensor for Physical Human–Robot Interaction Using Band‐Stop Filters
Authors: Kim Jaehoon , Kim Junhyung , Park Yong‐Lae
Published: September 2023

For safe coexistence between robots and humans, it is important for robots to detect the presence of nearby humans as well as any physical contacts made to its body. The design of a modular textile sensor array and an algorithm for multi‐modal sensing of human touches and other contacts with their contact forces   proposed. Each sensor module in the array is capable of multi‐modal sensing, and the entire array with multiple modules requires only two wires to read the outputs from all the modules using band‐stop filter circuits. The proposed sensor system shows the structural modularity, achieved by simple fabrication of sequential lamination of conductive and non‐conductive textile materials, realizing electrical connections through conductive snap buttons that connect the modules to the circuit. The functional modularity is also achieved through the compensation algorithm, derived from the analysis of the transfer function in the frequency domain. The algorithm significantly reduces signal interferences between modules. The multi‐modality, the textile‐based design, and the structural and functional modularity of the proposed system enable practical applications to various robotic systems, including robotic skin for a collaborative robot, a wearable sensor, a robot hand sensor, and a human–computer interface, as demonstrated in this study.
Combination of Cryo‐Shocked M1 Macrophages and Lonidamine Nanodrugs Enables Potent Chemo‐Immunotherapy
Authors: Shi Xueying , Xiao Bing , Xu Xiaodan , Pan Yixuan , Xiang Jiajia , Shao Shiqun , Zhou Zhuxian , Huang Feihe , Gao Jianqing , Slater Nigel K. H. , Shen Youqing , Tang Jianbin
Published: September 2023

Therapeutics targeting immune checkpoints have achieved astonishing clinical success in cancer treatment. However, these therapies can hardly adapt to immunologically “cold” tumors featuring insufficient and exhausted tumor‐infiltrating lymphocytes as well as low immunogenicity. Herein, a two‐pronged strategy is presented by combining cryo‐shocked M1 macrophages (CSMs) and CD47‐targeted lonidamine nanodrugs (CLNDN) for reprograming the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME). CSMs induce durable polarization of tumor‐associated macrophages (TAMs) into the immunostimulatory M1 phenotype through the TLR2/MAPK signaling and also elevate CD47 expression in tumor cells, which in turn facilitates the targeted delivery of CLNDN into tumor cells. CLNDN trigger tumor cell‐specific pyroptosis through the caspase‐3/GSDME pathway and lead to the release of damage‐associated molecular patterns. Consequently, the combination of CSM and CLNDN synergistically boosts immune infiltration and tumor cell immunogenicity within the TME, effectively reverting tumor immunosuppression. This combination achieves potent antitumor effects and induces long‐term immune memory against tumor metastasis and recurrence. This work demonstrates for the first time TAM polarization by using cryo‐shocked macrophages and highlights its coordination with tumor pyroptosis for igniting tumor immunity, opening up a new avenue for robust cancer immunotherapy.
Facile Photopatterning of Perfusable Microchannels in Synthetic Hydrogels to Recreate Microphysiological Environments
Authors: Mora‐Boza Ana , Mulero‐Russe Adriana , Caprio Nikolas Di , Burdick Jason A. , Singh Ankur , García Andrés J.
Published: September 2023

The fabrication of perfusable hydrogels is crucial for recreating in vitro microphysiological environments. Existing strategies to fabricate complex microchannels in hydrogels involve sophisticated equipment/techniques. A cost‐effective, facile, versatile, and ultra‐fast methodology is reported to fabricate perfusable microchannels of complex shapes in photopolymerizable hydrogels without the need of specialized equipment or sophisticated protocols. The methodology utilizes one‐step ultraviolet (UV) light‐triggered cross‐linking and a photomask printed on inexpensive transparent films to photopattern PEG‐norbornene hydrogels. Complex and intricate patterns with high resolution, including perfusable microchannels, can be fabricated in <1 s. The perfusable hydrogel is integrated into a custom‐made microfluidic device that permits connection to external pump systems, allowing continuous fluid perfusion into the microchannels. Under dynamic culture, human endothelial cells form a functional and confluent endothelial monolayer that remains viable for at least 7 days and respond to inflammatory stimuli. Finally, approach to photopattern norbornene hyaluronic acid hydrogels is adapted, highlighting the versatility of the technique. This study presents an innovative strategy to simplify and reduce the cost of biofabrication techniques for developing functional in vitro models using perfusable three‐dimensional (3D) hydrogels. The approach offers a novel solution to overcome the complexities associated with existing methods, allowing engineering advanced in vitro microphysiological environments.
Molecular Heptazine–Triazine Junction over Carbon Nitride Frameworks for Artificial Photosynthesis of Hydrogen Peroxide
Authors: Zhang Yunxiao , Cao Qingxiang , Meng Aiyun , Wu Xuelian , Xiao Yonghao , Su Chenliang , Zhang Qitao
Published: September 2023

Revealing the photocatalytic mechanism between various junctions and catalytic activities has become a hotspot in photocatalytic systems. Herein, an internal molecular heptazine/triazine (H/T) junction in crystalline carbon nitride (HTCN) is constructed and devoted to selective two‐electron oxygen reduction reaction (2e− ORR) for efficient hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) production. In‐situ X‐ray diffraction spectra under various temperatures authenticate the successful formation of molecular H/T junction in HTCN during the calcining process rather than physically mixing. The increased surface photovoltage and transient photovoltage signals, and the decreased exciton binding energy undoubtably elucidate that an obvious increasement of carrier density and diffusion capability of photogenerated electrons are realized over HTCN. Additionally, the analyses of in situ photoirradiated Kelvin probe force microscopy and femto‐second transient absorption spectra reveal the successful construction of the strong internal built‐in‐electric field and the existence of the majority of long‐lived shallow trapped electrons associated with molecular H/T junction over HTCN, respectively. Benefiting from these, the photocatalytic results exhibit an incredible improvement (96.5‐fold) for H2O2 production. This novel work provides a comprehensive understanding of the long‐lived reactive charges in molecular H/T junctions for strengthening the driving‐force for photocatalytic H2O2 production, which opens potential applications for enhancing PCN‐based photocatalytic redox reactions.
The impact of housing on birth outcomes in breeding macaque groups across multiple research centers
Authors: Haertel Andrew J. , Beisner Brianne A. , Buehler Margaret S. , Capuano Saverio , Carrol Kelsey E. , Church Travis , Cohen Joyce K. , Crane Maria M. , Dutton John W. , Falkenstein Katherine P. , Gill Leanne , Hopper Lydia M. , Hotchkiss Charlotte E. , Lee Grace H. , Malinowski Carolyn M. , Mendoza Elda , Sayers Ken , Scorpio Diana G. , Stockinger Diane , Taylor Joshua M.
Published: September 2023

Demand for nonhuman primates in research has increased over the past several years, while nonhuman primate supply remains a challenge in the United States. Global nonhuman primate supply issues make it increasingly important to maximize domestic colony production. To explore how housing conditions across primate breeding colonies impact infant survival and animal production more broadly, we collected medical records from 7959 rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta) and 492 pigtail macaques (Macaca nemestrina) across seven breeding facilities and used generalized mixed‐effect modeling to determine prenatal and infant survival odds by housing type and group size. Infant survival odds for each housing type and group size varied for prenatal, neonatal, early infant, and late infant age groups. Odds of prenatal survival were lowest in paired indoor housing and small and medium outdoor groups. No housing type performed better than large outdoor groups for neonatal survival. Odds of early infant survival was greatest in indoor and mixed indoor/outdoor housing compared to large outdoor enclosures. Large outdoor housing was associated with higher survival odds for late infant survival compared to small and medium outdoor housing. These results may influence housing choices at macaque breeding facilities hoping to maximize infant success, although there are relative care costs, the promotion of species‐typical behaviors, and infrastructure factors to also consider. Our study used an interinstitutional collaboration that allowed for the analysis of more infant macaque medical records than ever before and used the broad variations across the seven national primate research centers to make the results applicable to many other facilities housing macaques.
Dual Tunability for Uncatalyzed N‐Alkylation of Primary Amines Enabled by Plasma‐Microdroplet Fusion
Authors: Grooms Alexander J. , Nordmann Anna N. , Badu‐Tawiah Abraham K.
Published: September 2023

The fusion of non‐thermal plasma with charged microdroplets facilitates catalyst‐free N‐alkylation for a variety of primary amines, without halide salt biproduct generation. Significant reaction enhancement (up to >200×) is observed over microdroplet reactions generated from electrospray. This enhancement for the plasma‐microdroplet system is attributed to the combined effects of energetic collisions and the presence of reactive oxygen species (ROS). The ROS (e.g., O2⋅−) act as a proton sink to increase abundance of free neutral amines in the charged microdroplet environment. The effect of ROS on N‐alkylation is confirmed through three unique experiments: (i) utilization of radical scavenging reagent, (ii) characterization of internal energy distribution, and (iii) controls performed without plasma, which lacked reaction acceleration. Establishing plasma discharge in the wake of charged microdroplets as a green synthetic methodology overcomes two major challenges within conventional gas‐phase plasma chemistry, including the lack of selectivity and product scale‐up. Both limitations are overcome here, where dual tunability is achieved by controlling reagent concentration and residence time in the microdroplet environment, affording single or double N‐alkylated products. Products are readily collected yielding milligram quantities in eight hours. These results showcase a novel synthetic strategy that represents a straightforward and sustainable C−N bond‐forming process.
Effects of alkaline‐acid treatment on the physiochemical attributes of natural cellulosic fiber of Arundo donaxL
Authors: Gaikwad Abhishek , Debnath Kishore , Gupta M. K.
Published: September 2023

In the present investigation, the cellulose fibers were extracted from Arundo donax through a three‐step treatment. The effects of the alkaline pre‐treatment, acid hydrolysis, and soxhlet‐based extraction on the qualitative and quantitative attributes of the resultant cellulose fibers were investigated. The results of the present study signify a positive correlation between chemical treatment and cellulose content. The overall yield conversion of cellulose was recorded as 156.67%, after Soxhlet‐based purification. It was also observed that the moisture content, percentage of water absorption, rate of water absorption, and ash mass fraction gradually declined after each treatment step. The correlation between the chemical treatment with quantitative and qualitative attributes revealed a gradual increment in cellulose content, crystallinity index, and purity of cellulose fiber extracted from A. donax. The FTIR spectra emphasized that the obtained cellulose was free from impurities after Soxhlet‐based extraction. Simultaneously the DTG curve of A. donax fiber revealed a low rate of derivatization in the fibers extracted after Soxhlet treatment. The SEM and EDX analysis illustrate that the cellulose fibers were devoid of impurities as well as contamination of heavy metal ions.
Decentralized formation of multi‐agent conformable fractional nonlinear robot systems
Authors: Ángeles‐Ramírez Oscar Alejandro , Fernández‐Anaya Guillermo , Hernández‐Martínez Eduardo Gamaliel , González‐Sierra Jaime , Ramírez‐Neria Mario
Published: September 2023

A novel approach to address the asymptotic stability problem of the decentralized formation control of multi‐agent robot systems considering a cyclic pursuit formation graph is derived by using the classical Lyapunov's stability method and LaSalle's invariance principle. Theoretical development of a local potential function‐based control law and the formulation of the position and formation error dynamics, from the viewpoint of the multi‐variable conformable fractional‐order calculus, is given. In addition, a comparison between the integer‐order case and conformable fractional‐order case is provided. Finally, a numerical example illustrates the performance of the developed results.
Characterization of a C‐RED One camera for astrophotonical applications
Authors: Vješnica Stella , Hernandez Eloy , Madhav Kalaga , Roth Martin M.
Published: September 2023

To better understand the impact of the avalanche gain applied in the detector technology and apply this technology in our in‐house astrophotonic projects, we have characterized a C‐RED One camera and produced a stable and reliable method for calculating the system gain at any desired avalanche gain setting. We observed that depending on how the system gain is obtained, multiplying the system gain times the avalanche gain may not accurately produce a conversion factor from electrons to ADUs. As the acquisition of a photon transfer curve (PTC) was possible at different avalanche gain levels, several PTCs at low avalanche gain levels were acquired. Consequently, a linear fit was produced from the acquired system gain as a function of the avalanche gain setting. Through the linear fit, the effective system gain was calculated at any desired avalanche level. The effective system gain makes possible to accurately calculate the initial system gain without the ambiguity introduced by the nonlinearity of the system. Besides, the impact of the avalanche gain on the dynamic range was also analyzed and showed a stable behavior through the measured avalanche range.
SIG/USE Research Symposium: Making Research Matter: Connecting Theory and Practice
Authors: Willson Rebekah , Greyson Devon , Burnett Gary , Given Lisa
Published: September 2023

EDITOR'S SUMMARY

Special Interest Group/Information Needs, Seeking and Use (SIG/USE) convened at the 2015 ASIS&T Annual Meeting to explore the links between theory and practice in information behavior. In his keynote address, Ross Todd urged the audience to go beyond models and aim for synthesis and meta‐analysis, focusing on the user. Lightning talks addressed a social cognitive theory analysis of a program for disadvantaged youth; adults with limited literacy and health information; mobile information workers; forming a community of practice; and information sharing practices among online communities. A key takeaway was that research should actively involve communities and their members rather than simply being about them. Safiya Noble's keynote highlighted hidden biases in automated search engine returns with encouragement to design algorithms enabling users to opt in or out of filtered returns. Attendees explored the topics raised further during a mixer chat and table talks. The symposium ended with presentations for the best paper, poster and research proposal and awards for student and international conference travel.
Quantitative and Non‐Quantitative Assessments of Enzymatic Electrosynthesis: A Case Study of Parameter Requirements
Authors: Sayoga Giovanni , Abt Michael , Teetz Niklas , Bueschler Victoria , Liese Andreas , Franzreb Matthias , Holtmann Dirk
Published: September 2023

The integration of enzymatic and electrochemical reactions offers a unique opportunity to optimize production processes. Recently, an increasing number of laboratory‐scale enzymatic electrosyntheses have shown impressive performance indicators, leading to scientific interest in technical implementation. However, important process parameters are missing in most of the relevant literature. On one hand, this is due to the large variety of relevant performance indicators. On the other hand, enzyme technologists and electrochemists use different parameters to describe a process. In this article, we review the most important performance indicators in electroenzymatic processes and suggest that in order to allow quantitative comparison, these indicators should be reported in all respective publications. In addition to quantitative parameters, non‐quantitative assessments often need to be included in a final evaluation. Examples of such parameters are sustainability, contribution to the UN Sustainable Development Goals or interactions with the overall process. We demonstrate the evaluation of processes using hydrogen peroxide‐dependent peroxygenases. The strength of the proposed evaluation system lies in its ability to identify weaknesses in a process at an early stage of development. Finally, it can be concluded that all evaluated enzymatic electrosynthesis do not yet meet typical industrial requirements for an enzyme‐based process.
TCaS‐VN: A novel V2V communication scheme to improve traffic control and safety in vehicular cloud networks
Authors: Hedayati Majdabadi Reza , Taheri Hassan , Ahmad Motamedi S.
Published: September 2023

Road accidents and traffic congestion are the unavoidable consequences of the growing number of vehicles on the road. Conventional management systems are not effective in mitigating these issues. However, a range of technologies, including sensors, processors, vehicle‐based resources, and mobile cloud computing, can help solve traffic and safety problems. Vehicular cloud networks, a cutting‐edge technology for the development of intelligent transportation systems, face significant challenges, such as ensuring reliable service providers that maintain stable connections between vehicles. Roadside units (RSUs) play a crucial role in these networks, but they come with several drawbacks, including high costs, imbalanced load distribution, and unreliable connections. To address these issues, we propose the Traffic Control and Safety in Vehicular Networks (TCaS‐VN) algorithm, a cloud‐based sharing services framework for vehicles that eliminates the need for RSUs. This approach offers several advantages, including a twofold improvement in the lifetime of clusters, the elimination of noncluster head nodes, a 54% reduction in overhead, a 58% reduction in service search time, and a success rate of over 95% in service provisioning.
Calcium channel blocker use and outcomes in patients with heart failure and mildly reduced and preserved ejection fraction
Authors: Matsumoto Shingo , Kondo Toru , Yang Mingming , Campbell Ross T. , Docherty Kieran F. , de Boer Rudolf A. , Desai Akshay S. , Lam Carolyn S.P. , Packer Milton , Pitt Bertram , Rouleau Jean L. , Vaduganathan Muthiah , Zannad Faiez , Zile Michael R. , Solomon Scott D. , Jhund Pardeep S. , McMurray John J.V.
Published: September 2023

Aims

Patients with heart failure (HF) and mildly reduced ejection fraction (HFmrEF) and preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) are often treated with calcium channel blockers (CCBs), although the safety of CCBs in these patients is uncertain. We aimed to investigate the association between CCB use and clinical outcomes in patients with HFmrEF/HFpEF; CCBs were examined overall, as well as by subtype (dihydropyridine and non‐dihydropyridine).

Methods and results

We pooled individual patient data from four large HFpEF/HFmrEF trials. The association between CCB use and outcomes was assessed. Among the 16 954 patients included, the mean left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) was 56.8%, and 13 402 (79.0%) had HFpEF (LVEF ≥50%). Altogether, 5874 patients (34.6%) received a CCB (87.6% dihydropyridines). Overall, the risks of death and HF hospitalization were not higher in patients treated with a CCB, particularly dihydropyridines. The risk of pump failure death was significantly lower (hazard ratio [HR] 0.76, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.60–0.96), while the risk of stroke was higher (HR 1.26, 95% CI 1.06–1.50) in patients treated with a CCB compared to those not. These risks remained different in patients treated and not treated with a CCB after adjustment for other prognostic variables. Although the majority of patients were treated with dihydropyridine CCBs, the pattern of outcomes was broadly similar for both dihydropyridine and non‐dihydropyridine CCBs.

Conclusion

Although this is an observational analysis of non‐randomized treatment, there was no suggestion that CCBs were associated with worse HF outcomes. Indeed, CCB use was associated with a lower incidence of pump failure death.
Donor‐Acceptor Tin(IV) Complexes with α‐Diimine and Catecholate Ligands
Authors: Klimashevskaya Anastasya V. , Arsenyeva Kseniya V. , Maleeva Arina V. , Druzhkov Nikolay O. , Arsenyev Maxim V. , Cherkasov Anton V. , Yakushev Ilya A. , Aysin Rinat R. , Piskunov Alexandr V.
Published: September 2023

A series of new octahedral bis‐3,6‐di‐tert‐butylcatecholates based on tin(IV) containing metal‐coordinated N‐donor ligands (substituted iminopyridines and diazabutadienes) has been synthesized and structurally characterized. The compounds, both solid and in solution, are intensely colored. They absorb in the visible region of the spectrum. Charge transfer between the catecholate donor and the diimine acceptor is responsible for the absorption. This observation is in good agreement with the DFT calculations and with the electrochemical studies carried out by CV.
Sustainable energy efficiency, greener energy and energy‐related emissions nexus: Sustainability‐related implications for G7 economies
Authors: Pi Kai , Khan Salahuddin , Raza Syed Ali , Shahzadi Irum
Published: September 2023

The topic of energy efficiency and environmental quality is quickly becoming one of the most pressing concerns facing the globe today. The linkage between energy efficiency and high environmental quality standards has significant repercussions for the long‐term viability of the ecosystem. The prime objective of this study is to explore the nexus between sustainable energy efficiency, green energy and energy‐related emissions. Energy efficiency has the potential to be a key tool in the pursuit of environmental sustainability. This study investigates the dynamic relationships between energy efficiency and energy‐related greenhouse gases (GHG) in developed countries from 1990 to 2020. Using advanced econometric approaches, the results argue that energy efficiency, globalization and greener energy adoption are helpful for the reduction of GHG emissions in developed countries. Moreover, economic growth increases GHG emissions in developed countries. Furthermore, we find a bidirectional causality of energy‐related greenhouse gas emissions with energy efficiency, income and globalization. The study results guide policymakers on the policies they can implement apropos greener energies and enforce to ensure sustainable development.
Response to authors of letters to the editor
Authors: Jalisi Scharukh , Tashman Katherine
Published: September 2023

see pages 3180‐3181
Junior parkrun pilot in Australia: A real world evaluation
Authors: Mathieu Erin , Grunseit Anne C. , Foley Bridget C. , Reece Lindsey J.
Published: September 2023

Issue Addressed

Regular physical activity is important for children's health. Parkrun supports communities to deliver free, weekly, 5 km events in 22 countries around the world and is the largest physical activity model delivered at scale in the world. Junior parkrun aims to encourage children aged 4–14 years to be active outdoors through providing safe, cost‐free and non‐competitive weekly timed walk, run or jog over a 2‐km distance. The aim of this study is to evaluate the junior parkrun pilot in Australia.

Methods

A process evaluation was conducted using routinely collected data of junior parkrun participants, as well as a self‐completed questionnaire.

Results

A total of 1827 children had registered and participated in at least one junior parkrun over the course of the pilot period. Participants had, on average, attended 10% of the junior parkrun events including and subsequent to their first participation by the end of the study period. Majority of parents (61%) said that junior parkrun had increased their child's physical activity either a little or a lot, and most agreed or strongly agreed that junior parkrun was fun (90%), enjoyable (91%), energising (85%) and challenging (70%).

Conclusion

The junior parkrun pilot appears to show promise in Australia for enabling children to engage in physical activity, in their local communities in a fun and inclusive way.

So What

Parkrun junior can co‐exist with other organised sports programs; however, it can also specifically target those not participating in any sports, given the high levels of enjoyment in a non‐competitive, non‐team environment.
Optical coherence elastography and its applications for the biomechanical characterization of tissues
Authors: Wang Chongyang , Zhu Jiang , Ma Jiawei , Meng Xiaochen , Ma Zongqing , Fan Fan
Published: September 2023

The biomechanical characterization of the tissues provides significant evidence for determining the pathological status and assessing the disease treatment. Incorporating elastography with optical coherence tomography (OCT), optical coherence elastography (OCE) can map the spatial elasticity distribution of biological tissue with high resolution. After the excitation with the external or inherent force, the tissue response of the deformation or vibration is detected by OCT imaging. The elastogram is assessed by stress–strain analysis, vibration amplitude measurements, and quantification of elastic wave velocities. OCE has been used for elasticity measurements in ophthalmology, endoscopy, and oncology, improving the precision of diagnosis and treatment of disease. In this article, we review the OCE methods for biomechanical characterization and summarize current OCE applications in biomedicine. The limitations and future development of OCE are also discussed during its translation to the clinic.
Ginkgolide B promotes spontaneous recovery and enhances endogenous netrin‐1 after neonatal hypoxic–ischemic brain damage
Authors: Chen Aiming , Hua Jun , Yuan Jun , Feng Yajuan , Chen Fengzhan , Zhou Yongqin , Han Ting , Jiang Weiwei , Chen Huiping
Published: September 2023

Objectives

Perinatal hypoxic–ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) is a condition that can lead to long‐term cognitive, motor, and behavioral impairments in newborns. Although brain hypothermia therapy is currently the standard treatment for HIE, it does not provide complete neuroprotection. As a result, there is a need to explore additional therapies to enhance treatment outcomes. This study aims to investigate the potential role of Ginkgolide B (GB) in promoting neuroplasticity and facilitating spontaneous recovery after HIE.

Methods

In this study, we employed a neonatal rat model of HIE to investigate the effects of GB on spontaneous recovery. GB treatment was initiated 24 h after hypoxia and administered continuously for a duration of 14 days. We evaluated several outcome measures after the treatment period, including spontaneous behavioral recovery and brain repair. Additionally, we quantified the levels of netrin‐1 in both plasma and the peri‐ischemic zone after the occurrence of HIE.

Results

We found that GB treatment significantly facilitated spontaneous behavioral recovery in the HIE pups. Furthermore, cognitive function was restored, and brain tissue repair had a noticeable acceleration. We observed increased cell proliferation in the subventricular, stratum, and subgranular zones. Of particular interest, we observed elevated levels of netrin‐1 in both plasma and the ischemic penumbra following GB treatment.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that GB promotes neuroplasticity and enhances spontaneous recovery in newborns affected by HIE. The observed upregulation of netrin‐1 may be crucial in mediating these effects. These results highlight the promising potential of GB as a post‐HIE therapy, particularly in enhancing spontaneous recovery and improving long‐term outcomes.
Efficacy of Botulinum A Injection to the Laryngeal Adductor Compartment for Treatment of Cough
Authors: Campbell Brett A. , Flormann Victoria B. , Davis Roger B. , Mallur Pavan S.
Published: September 2023

Objectives

Studies examining electromyography (EMG)‐guided laryngeal onobotulinumtoxinA (BTxA) injection for chronic cough reveal promising efficacy, however, are limited by small cohorts and absent quantifiable outcomes. It further remains unclear if pulmonary disease limits efficacy, or if vagal motor neuropathy prognosticates response. We hypothesize BTxA injection results in qualitative improvement in cough, decrease in Cough Severity Index (CSI), no change in Voice Handicap Index‐10 (VHI‐10), and complication rates comparable to historical data. We also examine the correlation of pulmonary comorbidities and vocal fold hypomobility with treatment efficacy.

Study Design

Retrospective review.

Methods

Charts for patients receiving percutaneous adductor compartment BTxA injection for cough were reviewed for the binary outcome of patient‐reported presence or absence of improvement. Generalized estimating equations regression models were used to analyze the change in CSI (ΔCSI) and the correlation of ΔCSI with qualitative outcomes. Multivariable analyses were used to examine correlation of vocal fold hypomobility and pulmonary disease with qualitative outcomes and ΔCSI.

Results

Forty‐seven patients underwent 197 BTxA injections from June 2012 to June 2022. A statistical proportion of 0.698 (0.599–0.813, p < 0.0001) or 69.8% of injections resulted in subjective improvement. Mean ΔCSI was −2.12 (0.22–4.02, p < 0.05), indicating overall improvement. With and without subjective improvement, estimated ΔCSI was −4.43 and +2.68, respectively (p < 0.0001). VHI‐10 did not change (0.69, p = 0.483). Neither pulmonary disease nor vocal fold hypomobility correlated with subjective improvement or ΔCSI. Dysphagia occurred following 15 (7.6%) injections with no aspiration pneumonia or hospitalization.

Conclusions

BTxA injection to the laryngeal adductors may effectively treat cough with limited risk for serious complications.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 134:1749–1756, 2024
Toward a Green Chemistry Approach for the Functionalization of Melamine Foams with Silver Nanoparticles
Authors: Quilez‐Molina Ana Isabel , Barroso‐Solares Suset , Rodríguez‐Pérez Miguel Ángel , Pinto Javier
Published: September 2023

The growing popularity of silver nanoparticles in the field of nanotechnology has created the necessity of developing new sustainable synthesis methods. This study presents a new green in situ functionalization method of melamine foams with silver nanoparticles. The synthesis pathway and the influence of the processing parameters are optimized to phase out 100% of polluting and dangerous solvents while maximizing silver transfer. A deep study of the morphological and chemical changes of the synthesized silver nanoparticles successfully demonstrated that water can be used as the only solvent for obtaining active melamine foams with potential application in multiple fields. Results showed that rising reaction temperatures from environmental to mild conditions (40 °C and 60 °C) is crucial for obtaining high functionalization yields with this green method. Following the optimum fabrication conditions using only water, highly functionalized melamine foams showed a great amount of ultrafine silver nanoparticles distributed over the porous structure.
Curing kinetics and mechanical properties of magnetocured epoxy adhesive doped with magnetic nanoparticles
Authors: Zhang Yuxiang , Wu Chengwei , Zhang Wei , Zeng Xue , Han Xiao
Published: September 2023

The curing kinetics as well as the corresponding tensile properties of magnetocured epoxy adhesive doped with magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) is investigated in this article, where the curing reaction process is depicted using an isoconversional model. It is found that the tensile modulus and strength strongly depend on the curing degree (CD) and mass fraction of MNPs when curing degree varies from 0.7 to 1.0. When curing degree is 0.7, the tensile modulus of the adhesive with 15%wt and 30%wt MNPs increases by 46% and 592% compared to that with 10%wt MNPs, respectively, but the increase is not obvious when curing degree is higher than 0.9. This difference is more significant in the tested tensile strength, where the samples with 15%wt and 30%wt MNPs are 7.08 and 20.83 times higher than the one with 10%wt MNPs under 0.7 curing degree. However, the corresponding tensile strength with 1.0 curing degree is reduced by 4% and 35%, respectively. Scanning electron microscopy observation reveals different fracture mechanisms caused by curing degree variation. Failure occurs in the adhesive region for curing degree below 0.9, while failure initiates and propagates at the interface between adhesive and MNPs for curing degree above 0.9. It can be concluded that the intrinsic property of the adhesive determines the tensile properties when the curing degree is lower than 0.9, while the weak interfacial interaction between adhesive and MNPs introduces reverse effect when the curing degree is higher than 0.9. This competitive relationship should be considered in the design of magnetocuring process.

Highlights

Enhancement in adhesive modulus from MNPs addition degrades as CD approaches 1.

Intrinsic property of adhesive determines the tensile strength with CD < 0.9.

Weak interface dominates the failure mechanism in adhesive with CD > 0.9.
Stepped‐care to improve mental health outcomes among underserved patients with lung and head and neck cancer
Authors: Borrayo Evelinn A. , Juarez‐Colunga Elizabeth , Kilbourn Kristin , Waxmonsky Jeanette , Jacobson Marty , Okuyama Sonia , Swaney Robert , Wamboldt Frederick S. , Karam Sana , Lopez Alvarez Samantha , Jin Xin , Nguyen Jennifer
Published: September 2023

Background

The comparative effectiveness study (ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03016403) assessed the effects of a stepped‐care intervention versus usual care on mental health outcomes, including anxiety, depression, coping self‐efficacy, emotional distress (anxiety and depression combined), health‐related quality of life (HRQoL), and perceived stress among underserved patients (i.e., low‐income, uninsured, underinsured) with lung cancer (LC) and head‐and‐neck cancer (HNC).

Methods

In a randomized controlled trial, we investigated if 147 patients who received the stepped‐care intervention had better mental health outcomes compared to 139 patients who received usual care. Using an intent‐to‐treat approach, we analyzed outcomes with linear mixed models.

Results

For the primary outcomes estimated mean differences (denoted by “Δ”), depression (Δ = 1.75, 95% CI = 0.52, 2.98, p = 0.01) and coping self‐efficacy (Δ = −15.24, 95% CI = −26.12, −4.36, p = 0.01) were better for patients who received the intervention compared to patients who received usual care, but anxiety outcomes were not different. For secondary outcomes, emotional distress (Δ = 1.97, 95% CI: 0.68, 3.54, p =< 0.01) and HRQoL (Δ = −4.16 95% CI: −7.45, −0.87, p = 0.01) were better for patients who received the intervention compared to usual care patients, while perceived stress was not different across groups.

Conclusions

The stepped‐care intervention influenced depression and coping self‐efficacy, important outcomes for patients with acute illnesses like LC and HNC. Although differences in emotional distress met the minimally important differences (MID) previously reported, depression and HRQoL were not above the MID threshold. Our study is among a few to report differences in mental health outcomes for underserved LC and HNC patients after receiving a psychological intervention.

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier

NCT03016403.
Advantages of diapause in Anastatus japonicus Ashmead mass production on eggs of the Chinese oak silkworm, Antheraea pernyi
Authors: Zhao Can , Xia Yue , Xiao Jun‐Jian , Liu Zi‐Xin , Bao‐Xin Zhang , Li Dun‐Song
Published: September 2023

BACKGROUND

Anastatus japonicus Ashmead, a biological control agent utilized in China to control fruit bugs and forest caterpillars, is efficiently raised on large Chinese oak silkworm (Antheraea pernyi) eggs. Here, we investigated the biological parameters of non‐diapaused and diapaused Anastatus japonicus after long‐term storage within eggs of the host, Antheraea pernyi, under laboratory conditions.

RESULTS

Diapaused mature larvae of Anastatus japonicus were more cold‐tolerant than non‐diapaused mature larvae, as reflected by a lower supercoiling point, lower freezing point, and higher survival rate at cold temperatures. Diapause induction enhanced the lifespan, fecundity and oviposition period of Anastatus japonicus than non‐diapaused Anastatus japonicus when refrigerated for 6 months. However, after 12 months of refrigeration, the fecundity and oviposition period of Anastatus japonicus were significantly reduced with and without diapause. No difference in the progeny sex ratio of Anastatus japonicus was observed between diapause‐induction treatment and those of non‐diapaused. With the extension of refrigeration period from 6 months to 12 months, the lifespan, fecundity and oviposition period of Anastatus japonicus which were treated with diapause induction showed a sharp decrease. No significantly difference in the lifespan, fecundity and oviposition period of Anastatus japonicus was observed between diapause‐induction treatment and those of non‐diapaused when refrigerated for 12 months.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that the induction of diapause is an applicable technique to achieve mass production of Anastatus japonicus in long‐term storage using eggs of the factitious host Antheraea pernyi, without compromising the quality of the parasitoid. The refrigeration period of diapaused Anastatus japonicus should not exceed 6 months. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Enhancing ROS‐Inducing Nanozyme through Intraparticle Electron Transport
Authors: Yi Zhongchao , Yang Xiaoyue , Liang Ying , Chapelin Fanny , Tong Sheng
Published: September 2023

Iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) have garnered significant attention as a promising platform for reactive oxygen species (ROS)‐dependent disease treatment, owing to their remarkable biocompatibility and Fenton catalytic activity. However, the low catalytic activity of IONPs is a major hurdle in their clinical translation. To overcome this challenge, IONPs of different compositions are examined for their Fenton reaction under pharmacologically relevant conditions. The results show that wüstite (FeO) nanoparticles exhibit higher catalytic activity than magnetite (Fe3O4) or maghemite (γ‐Fe2O3) of matched size and coating, despite having a similar surface oxidation state. Further analyses suggest that the high catalytic activity of wüstite nanoparticles can be attributed to the presence of internal low‐valence iron (Fe0 and Fe2+), which accelerates the recycling of surface Fe3+ to Fe2+ through intraparticle electron transport. Additionally, ultrasmall wüstite nanoparticles are generated by tuning the thermodecomposition‐based nanocrystal synthesis, resulting in a Fenton reaction rate 5.3 times higher than that of ferumoxytol, an FDA‐approved IONP. Compared with ferumoxytol, wüstite nanoparticles substantially increase the level of intracellular ROS in mouse mammary carcinoma cells. This study presents a novel mechanism and pivotal improvement for the development of highly efficient ROS‐inducing nanozymes, thereby expanding the horizons for their therapeutic applications.