bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bioinspired micro‐ and nanostructured systems for cancer therapy
Authors: Yang Rui , Zhang Bing , Fei Xiawei , Cong Shanshan , Zhao Shaojie , Zhou Tao , Shen Yanting
Published: November 2024

Numerous organisms in nature have demonstrated enhanced biocompatibility, precise tumor targeting capabilities, and efficient tissue traversal within the human body. Drawing inspiration from these organisms, researchers have employed bioengineering, bioconjugation, and micro‐ or nanotechnology to fabricate bioinspired micro‐ and nanostructured systems. These systems play a crucial role in addressing the limitations of conventional anticancer drugs and nanomaterials concerning biocompatibility, effective penetration of physiological barriers, as well as selective tumor targeting, thereby leading to improved therapeutic efficacy while minimizing nonspecific adverse effects on healthy cells. Consequently, extensive exploration of these bioinspired micro‐ and nanostructured systems has been undertaken across various cancer treatment modalities with some progressing into preclinical or clinical stages. However, our understanding of this field remains limited which may impede research progress, clinical translation efforts, and practical applications. Therefore, this study presents a systematic classification of bioinspired micro‐ and nanostructured systems for cancer therapy that comprehensively elucidates their sources of inspiration and design principles. Furthermore, it extensively discusses the current status of clinical translation efforts while identifying prevailing challenges and exploring future prospects. This work will establish a robust theoretical framework and serve as a valuable reference to facilitate advancements in research and clinical application within this field.
Platform or Third‐Party Service Provider? An Analysis of Logistics Mode Selection Strategy for Manufacturers in E‐Commerce Supply Chains
Authors: Chen Ting , Zhang Xiuyi , Jia Fu
Published: November 2024

In recent years, the rise of e‐commerce has led to the dominance of some platforms in the market. Both these platforms and third‐party logistics providers are now offering online logistics services. Under this context, the brand manufacturers face challenges of deciding whether to outsource their logistics needs to third‐party logistics service providers (LSPs), rely on the e‐commerce platform itself, or establish collaborative partnerships with them. The combination between the decision to outsource or cooperate and the choice of service providers yields four typical scenarios: outsourcing to the platform without cooperation (Case PB), outsourcing to the platform with cooperation (Case P), outsourcing to the LSP without cooperation (Case LB), and outsourcing to the LSP with cooperation (Case L). This paper proposes a game‐theoretic model to investigate the manufacturer's optimal selection of logistics mode. We examine the economic and environmental performances of four logistics modes, with a particular emphasis on the mutual benefits and costs shared between manufacturers and their logistics partners. Our results reveal that collaboration in sustainable logistics improvement leads to higher sustainability levels, augmented logistics fees, and increased sales volumes compared to noncollaborative strategies. Additionally, we find that outsourcing to the e‐commerce platform generally results in higher profits and superior environmental performance for manufacturers, contingent upon the sustainability enhancement being sufficiently effective. Empirical evidence from surveys and interviews with industry experts supports our theoretical findings, underscoring the critical role of collaboration in achieving both economic and environmental sustainability within the supply chain. This study contributes to the literature on logistics outsourcing by evaluating manufacturers' strategic decisions in selecting logistics modes and accentuates the importance of cooperation in advancing sustainable logistics practices.
Cortical Functional Connectivity Changes in the Body‐First and Brain‐First Subtypes of Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Conti Matteo , D'Onofrio Valentina , Bovenzi Roberta , Ferrari Valerio , Di Giuliano Francesca , Cerroni Rocco , Pierantozzi Mariangela , Schirinzi Tommaso , Mercuri Nicola Biagio , Antonini Angelo , Guerra Andrea , Stefani Alessandro
Published: November 2024

Background

Rapid eye movement (REM) sleep behavior disorder (RBD) may precede motor symptoms in Parkinson's disease (PD) by years. According to a recent hypothesis, premotor RBD (pRBD) is a marker of the PD body‐first subtype, where synucleinopathy originates from the peripheral autonomic nervous system. Conversely, in the brain‐first subtype, pathology would arise in the brain. Functional connectivity (FC) could provide additional insight into the neurodegenerative process of these putative PD subtypes.

Objectives

We aim to analyze the possible FC differences between early‐stage PD patients with (PDpRBD+) and without (PDpRBD−) pRBD using high‐density electroencephalography (EEG).

Methods

We enrolled 28 PDpRBD+, 35 PDpRBD−, and 35 healthy controls (HC). Data were recorded with a 64‐channel EEG system, and a source‐reconstruction method was used to identify brain‐region activity. FC was calculated using the weighted phase‐lag index in θ, α, β, and low‐γ bands. Statistical analysis was conducted using network‐based statistic.

Results

We found a significant trend of decreased α‐FC across PDpRBD+, PDpRBD−, and HC, mainly in prefrontal and temporal areas. The altered α‐FC correlated with Montreal Cognitive Assessment scores in PDpRBD+ and, to a lesser extent, PDpRBD− and with gait/postural disturbances in PDpRBD+ patients only. PDpRBD+ and PDpRBD− had similarly increased FC than HC in a β band network, predominantly involving sensorimotor and limbic areas. The increased β network FC was related to bradykinesia severity in both PD subgroups.

Conclusions

Compared to PDpRBD− (brain‐first subtype), PDpRBD+ group (body‐first subtype) demonstrates specific EEG‐FC dysfunctions in the α band, which may reflect early involvement of the cholinergic ascending system. © 2024 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Anatomical Landmarks of the Facial Artery and Vein for Intraoral Anastomosis: A Cadaveric Study
Authors: Nakatsuka Kengo , Yano Tomoyuki , Omotehara Takuya , Kawata Shinichi , Itoh Masahiro
Published: November 2024

Background

Intraoral anastomosis is a widely used technique for microvascular alveolar ridge augmentation and midface reconstruction. However, the predictable anatomical positioning of facial structures, such as the vessels, parotid duct, and facial nerve in the buccal region, has remained unclear. Therefore, we aimed to obtain the anatomical characteristics of these locations to establish surgical landmarks for the intraoral anastomosis of facial vessels.

Methods

A total of 26 sides from 13 formaldehyde‐fixed cadavers approximately a month after fixation with a mean age at death of 86.6 ± 11.2 years (range: 55–104 years) were anatomically examined. Facial vessels, nerves, and the parotid duct were dissected intraorally. From the oral cavity side, the X‐axis was defined as the line from the labial commissure to the lowest point of the intertragic notch.

Results

From the oral cavity side, all branches of the facial nerve were found under the facial artery and vein. The positioning order along the X‐axis was the facial artery, vein, and parotid duct exit. The facial artery was 21.3 ± 2.2 mm and the facial vein was 39.2 ± 2.7 mm from the labial commissure. Ninety‐two percent of facial veins were found within 15–20 mm of the facial artery on the X‐axis. The parotid duct exit was 46.8 ± 2.0 mm from the labial commissure. In the buccal region, the vessel calibers of the facial artery and vein were 1.8 ± 0.2 and 2.1 ± 0.2 mm, respectively.

Conclusion

Knowledge of the anatomical relations among the facial artery, vein, parotid duct, and facial nerve from the oral cavity side can enhance the safety and efficacy of midface reconstruction surgeries involving intraoral anastomosis procedures.
Multiband and Wider Bandwidth Plasma Antenna Design Using 3D FDTD
Authors: Avci Selçuk Alparslan , Afacan Erkan
Published: November 2024

In this study, the far‐field characteristics of a plasma dielectric resonator antenna are investigated. The internal structure of the antenna is filled with a plasma material. Surface currents are obtained in an imaginary closed area formed at a certain point outside the plasma antenna. Then, the near field‐far field transformation is performed with the FFT method using the surface currents. The field distributions in the far field of the plasma antenna have been evaluated using three‐dimensional FDTD. The system has shown to work in multiband with wider bandwidths.
Exploring the Perceived Difficulty and Importance of Lower Limb Physical Activities for People With and Without Osteoarthritis: A Discrete Choice Experiment
Authors: Pierobon Andrés , Taylor Will , Siegert Richard , Willink Robin , Bennell Kim , Allen Kelli , Whittaker Jackie , Pearson Jake , Norton Marrissa , Clark Jane , Tay Hilal Ata , Schiphof Dieuwke , Darlow Ben
Published: November 2024

Background

Many outcome measures used in lower‐limb osteoarthritis (OA) present ceiling effects. This compromises the ability of those measures to accurately assess people with higher levels of physical function. Understanding of the difficulty and importance of physical activities would enable the inclusion of challenging and meaningful activities in new outcome measures.

Purpose

To explore the perceived difficulty and importance of 40 physical activities by people with and without lower limb OA.

Methods

We conducted a discrete choice experiment (DCE) using 1000minds software. We recruited people with and without OA using OA databases and social media. Participants were asked to complete two comparison tasks, first about the relative difficulty and then about the importance of the physical activities. Pairwise comparisons were presented (i.e., two alternatives at a time), and participants selected the most difficult/important.

Results

We analysed data from 613 participants, of whom 215 had OA. Rankings of difficulty and importance were obtained. No major differences existed in the difficulty ranking between people with and without OA. People with OA rated activities like kneeling and balancing activities as more important than those without OA. In contrast, people without OA rated jogging, squatting, and running as more important than those with OA. Challenging activities were generally rated as less important.

Conclusions

A DCE ranked 40 different lower limb physical activities in terms of difficulty and importance. Challenging activities were found to be less important than easier ones. People with OA gave more importance to easier activities than people without OA.
Analysis of the parametric configuration impact on BallBot control performance
Authors: Pham Anh‐Duc , Thai Ba Hoa , Dang Phuoc Vinh , Vo Nhu Thanh
Published: November 2024

The BallBot, a versatile robot system, finds applications in various domains of life. It comprises a frame moved by three wheels mounted on a ball. The robot performance is significantly influenced by its parametric configuration, including body mass, chassis size, and ball diameter. This study examines the impact of these configuration parameters on the control of the BallBot. The mathematical model of the BallBot is discussed, considering the assumptions and coordinate systems. To control the robot, a Linear Quadratic Regulator controller is designed. Subsequently, the simulation model is used to assess the effects of changing the initial parametric configuration. It is observed that altering the robot mass has a notable impact on the BallBot response, while changes in the ball diameter have a relatively insignificant effect.
Diabetes Education Program for Nursing Students: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Ahn Jeong‐Ah , Kim Eun‐Mi , Lee Jung Eun , Kim Kyoung‐A
Published: November 2024

Aim

The purpose of this study was to summarise the current state of the science on diabetes mellitus education programs for nursing students.

Design

A systematic review and meta‐analysis.

Methods

Eligible studies were identified by searching PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, and Cochrane Library databases. Randomised controlled trials and quasi‐experimental studies, published in English between 2013 and 2022, that examined diabetes education programs for nursing students were considered in the review. The quality of the articles was evaluated using the Joanna Briggs Institute's Critical Appraisal Checklist. Key information such as authors, study focus, population, sample size, details of intervention and control group treatments, outcome variables, and main findings were extracted and summarised in a data extraction form for further analyses and syntheses.

Results

The literature search identified 464 articles, from which 13 studies were evaluated in the systematic review. Most studies (n = 12, 92.3%) used technology‐based teaching methods, such as high‐fidelity simulations, mobile applications, and virtual reality simulations. Regarding the evaluation of diabetes education program effectiveness, the majority of studies showed significant improvements in knowledge (n = 8, 61.5%), followed by satisfaction with learning (n = 4, 30.8%), nursing skill performance (n = 3, 23.1%), and self‐confidence (n = 3, 23.1%) in nursing students. In meta‐analyses, technology‐based teaching interventions, compared to traditional education, showed no statistically significant improvement in diabetes knowledge (standard mean difference 9.52, 95% CI [−0.18, 19.21], p = 0.05) and self‐efficacy (standard mean difference 24.09, 95% CI [−10.75, 58.92], p = 0.18). Despite this, technology‐based methods demonstrated favourable effects on knowledge and self‐efficacy against traditional education. Findings highlight the importance of emerging technology‐based diabetes education programs tailored for nursing students, crucial for enhancing positive educational outcomes.

No Patient or Public Contribution.
Modifiable Risk Factors for Cognitive Frailty in Older Chinese Patients With Diabetes: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Qiu Wenhui , Zhang Yixiong
Published: November 2024

To perform a systematic review and meta‐analysis clarifying potential modifiable risk factors for cognitive frailty in older Chinese persons with diabetes. We conducted a comprehensive search across four English and four Chinese databases, spanning from 1980 to May 2024. The aim was to identify studies that investigate potential modifiable risk factors for cognitive frailty in older patients with diabetes. Meta‐analysis was performed using Stata16.0. Out of the 237 records identified, 19 studies met the inclusion criteria and were consequently included for analysis. The results of the meta‐analysis revealed that the prevalence of cognitive frailty among older patients with diabetes was 22.2% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.177−0.270, I2 = 93.92%). Depression (OR = 3.18, 95% CI: 2.19−4.62, I2 = 79.6%), HbA1c (OR = 2.18, 95% CI: 1.66−2.85, I2 = 41.5%) and malnutrition (OR = 4.04, 95% CI: 1.58−10.34, I2 = 95.0%) were significantly associated with cognitive frailty in this population. Regular exercise (OR = 0.30, 95% CI: 0.11−0.84, p < 0.01, I2 = 87.3%) and higher education (OR = 0.30, 95% CI: 0.16−0.58, p < 0.01, I2 = 69.7%) are identified as protective factors against cognitive frailty. This systematic review and meta‐analysis demonstrates that interventions targeting depression, HbA1c level, malnutrition, exercise and education can effectively reduce the risk of cognitive frailty in older patients with diabetes.
On Unconditional Stability of Upwind Generalized Summation‐by‐Parts Schemes for Kinetic Equations in the Diffusion Limit
Authors: Ortleb Sigrun
Published: November 2024

Kinetic models describe a wide range of physical processes relevant to natural and engineering sciences where a large number of particles are involved. Recently an efficient numerical scheme for specific kinetic models modeling radiative transfer has been proposed by implicitly discretizing those terms in the micro–macro decomposition of the kinetic model which are linked to diffusion in the asymptotic limit. Unconditional stability for low‐order discontinuous Galerkin (DG) schemes in space has been rigorously proven in this previous work, meaning that for small scaling parameters near the macroscopic limit of the kinetic model, arbitrarily large time steps may be chosen. Upwind summation‐by‐parts (SBP) schemes provide a generic framework to construct robust, structure‐preserving approximations of higher order. In this work, the theoretical unconditional stability result is extended to higher order spatial discretization based on upwind SBP operators combined with implicit‐explicit Runge–Kutta (RK) time integrators. Numerical computations are carried out for a linear prototype kinetic model and a kinetic model with macroscopic limit given by the viscous Burgers equation.
Measurement of active grid generated turbulence
Authors: Faragó Dávid , Szaszák Norbert , Bencs Péter
Published: November 2024

The aim of the research is to investigate the flow field downstream of an active turbulence grid using LDA (laser Doppler anemometry) and CTA (constant temperature anemometry) measurement methods. The work includes the development of measurement cases, the designing and realization of the measurement and auxiliary systems. The investigation has been realized in an open, Göttingen‐type wind tunnel, with a measurement cross‐section of 0.6  0.5 m. The investigated grid type, active turbulence generator was placed downstream of the converging nozzle section of the wind tunnel. Flexible silicone tubes were attached to certain grid points of the turbulence generator. Based on preliminary experiment results, silicone tubes were placed at every second grid point in a checkerboard pattern, and the remaining grid point openings were sealed. In active and in jet modes of the grid, it was supplied with high pressure secondary air (up to 8 bar gauge pressure). The appropriate volume flow rate was set by adjusting a pressure reducer and a variable cross‐section volume flow meter. The flow downstream of the turbulence grid was examined at five different mean air velocities with the turbulence generator being operated in passive, jet, and active modes. Reynolds numbers and the ratios of secondary volume flow to primary volume flow were determined from other measured (velocities, temperatures, pressure values, relative air humidity) and derived (densities, volume‐ and mass flow rates) quantities. Using LDA, the streamwise and the vertical velocity components (‐) were measured. Using CTA, measurements were performed twice; once measuring the streamwise and the horizontal instantaneous velocity components (‐), and the second time measuring the streamwise and the vertical components (‐). The results were processed and visualized in Matlab.
Plasma treatment of rice husk ash for application in tire retread compounds based on natural rubber
Authors: Moresco Suélen , Siciński Mariusz , Gozdek Tomasz , Giovanela Marcelo , Carli Larissa N. , Crespo Janaina S. , Bieliński Dariusz M.
Published: November 2024

In this study, various plasma treatment protocols were employed to modify white rice husk ash (WRHA) for enhanced compatibility as a reinforcing filler in natural rubber (NR) formulations. The treatments included argon (cleaning), oxygen (activation), and acetylene (polymerization) plasma, aiming to increase WRHA's specific surface area. In this sense, five rubber compounds based on a standard NR/silica tire tread formulation were developed and assessed for vulcanization kinetics and mechanical, dynamical, and tribological properties. Characterization of the modified filler indicated a notable decrease in surface free energy, improving its dispersion and interaction with the NR matrix. While most modifications did not significantly affect vulcanization parameters or mechanical properties, argon plasma‐treated WRHA hindered vulcanization and weakened the vulcanizates. However, all plasma treatments increased abrasion resistance and lowered tan δ values at 60°C and 100°C, indicating improved rolling resistance and reduced heat generation. Notably, WRHA treated with argon plasma followed by acetylene plasma polymerization exhibited the highest wet grip strength (~44%), along with reduced friction and wear (~14%). These findings suggest that plasma treatment, particularly the two‐step method, offers a promising approach for enhancing filler surface properties in rubber compounds, leading to improved product durability.

Highlights

White rice husk ash (WRHA) was successfully modified by plasma treatment.

Argon treatment followed by acetylene plasma polymerization was the most effective approach.

The incorporation of plasma‐treated WRHA resulted in lower wear track compounds.

Low rolling resistance and heat generation were achieved using plasma‐treated WRHA.

Plasma treatment emerges as an alternative to chemical rubber‐filler compatibilization.
Shyness and Adolescents' Smartphone Addiction: Roles of Maladaptive Cognitive Emotion Regulation, Experiential Avoidance, and Online Social Support
Authors: Gao Ling , Kong Fangyuan , Liu Fengfeng , Zhang Zixi , Wang Xingchao
Published: November 2024

Previous research has demonstrated shyness plays a critical role in the development and maintenance of smartphone addiction. The present study aimed to examine the mediating roles of maladaptive cognitive emotion regulation strategies and experiential avoidance as well as the moderating role of online social support in the relation between shyness and adolescents' smartphone addiction. A sample of 513 Chinese adolescents (Mage = 16.16 years, range from 14 to 19) was recruited to complete the questionnaires. After sex and age were controlled, shyness was significantly and positively associated with adolescents' smartphone addiction and this relation was partially mediated by both maladaptive cognitive emotion regulation strategies and experiential avoidance. The multiple mediation analysis further indicated that maladaptive cognitive emotion regulation strategies and experiential avoidance exerted a mixed mediation effect on the relation between shyness and adolescents' smartphone addiction. Moreover, online social support significantly moderated the relation between shyness and smartphone addiction and this relation is much weaker for adolescents with high online social support. These results contribute to design the effective interventions of adolescents' smartphone addiction.
High Sensation Seeking and Alcohol‐Related Consequences: “Go‐Zone” Protective Behavioral Strategies for High School Seniors
Authors: Doumas Diana M. , Miller Raissa , Esp Susan
Published: November 2024

Sensation seeking is a significant predictor of alcohol‐related consequences among high school students. High school seniors report the highest prevalence rates of alcohol use and binge drinking among students in high school. Among high sensation‐seeking students, higher rates of Protective Behavioral Strategies (PBS) use are associated with fewer alcohol‐related consequences. To date, however, there is no research investigating which specific PBS are related to lower levels of alcohol‐related consequences in this high‐risk group of students. The current study examined the frequency of use and effectiveness of 20 PBS measured by the PBS Scale‐20 among high sensation‐seeking high school seniors (N = 77). “Go‐zone” methodology was used to classify PBS items into one of four zones (i.e., used frequently, high effectiveness; used infrequently, high effectiveness; used frequently, low effectiveness; used infrequently; low effectiveness). Four PBS were identified as “go‐zone” strategies (e.g., used frequently; high effectiveness) and five strategies were identified as used infrequently but highly effective. Findings from the current study extend the literature on PBS use as a buffer against alcohol‐related consequences among high sensation‐seeking high school students. Implications for school mental health professionals are discussed.

Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT03613818
Establishing the relationship between history of childhood trauma and personality disorder using the ICD‐11 classification system
Authors: Lock Jordan , Yang Min , Tyrer Peter
Published: November 2024

The temporal relationship between childhood trauma and personality status using the ICD‐11 classification was examined in 75 adults (65%F) aged between 19 and 72 selected by constrained procedure to ensure the full range of personality disturbance. Trauma history was assessed using the Childhood Traumatic Events Scale, past and recent versions and personality status using scales to assess the severity and domains of the ICD‐11 system, PDS‐ICD‐11 and PAQ‐11. The PDS‐ICD‐11 findings showed 52 (59.3%) had some personality disturbance with 17 (22.7%) having moderate or severe personality disorder. There was a significant association between childhood sexual trauma and ICD‐11 personality severity (p = 0.005) and a lessened association with recent trauma (p = 0.02). Apart from the borderline composite score, the PAQ‐11 negative affectivity domain was significantly associated with childhood sexual trauma (p = 0.003), but other domains were not linked. The Anankastia domain was significantly associated with early major physical illness (p = 0.012), and physical illness both in early life (p = 0.005) and recent exposure (p = 0.024) were associated with personality disorder. Other forms of childhood abuse and illness or injury in childhood did not differ with regard to later personality disorder. The results confirm a significant but not overwhelming relationship between childhood sexual trauma and severity of ICD‐11 personality disturbance in adult life that is greater than for other classes of trauma.
What can drive a digital governance transformation? Greece, the Covid‐19 crisis and “a jump‐started Lamborghini”
Authors: Karokis‐Mavrikos Vassilis
Published: November 2024

The COVID‐19 pandemic tested state preparedness across the globe and exposed cross‐sectoral deficiencies in infrastructure, resources and policymaking patterns. However, the prospects of the pandemic facilitating lasting institutional change have received limited attention. This study explores the drivers and resisting forces underpinning Greece's ongoing digital governance transformation during conditions of crises through a Multiple Streams lens. The analysis is informed by original primary data from elite stakeholders across four policy areas and extends from policy adoption to implementation. The study concludes that the simultaneous surfacing of administrative deficiencies, the enhanced value acceptability for innovation and a series of cross‐sectoral spillovers facilitated the introduction of digitization initiatives on an unprecedented scale. However, centralization and cultural resistance from both bureaucracies and the public during implementation pose strains to the completion of the transformative process. The paper's insights contribute to the young but highly topical research agenda on digital governance transformation drivers.
Spirituality in Patients With Cancer: A Synthesis of a Program of Research
Authors: Ferrell Betty , Borneman Tami , Koczywas Marianna , Galchutt Paul
Published: November 2024

Background

Spiritual care is a key domain of quality palliative care as defined by national palliative care guidelines.

Aims

The aim of this project was to synthesize data and research experience by the authors over 30 years related to spirituality in patients with cancer. The research objectives for this analysis were to:

Describe spirituality in patients with cancer.

Determine the outcomes of palliative care interventions on spirituality and related variables in patients with cancer in these studies conducted by the authors.

Summarize methodological issues in conducting research related to spirituality in oncology patients.

Methods

A synthesis of 15 prior studies conducted by the authors was completed and also compared to current literature regarding spirituality in cancer and other serious illness.

Results

Findings demonstrate the broad scope of spirituality, key spiritual concerns in cancer and methodological approaches to assessing spirituality.

Conclusion

Spirituality is a major concern for patients, yet limited training has been provided for clinicians who deliver this care. Additional studies are needed to advance this important aspect of palliative care.
Current Physiotherapy Assessment and Treatment Practices for Low Back Pain in Nigeria: A National Survey
Authors: Danazumi Musa Sani , Ford Jon J. , Kaka Bashir , Hahne Andrew J.
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Despite advances in physiotherapy care for Low Back Pain (LBP) worldwide, studies suggest that physiotherapists in Nigeria do not adhere to international guidelines, and it is not known whether recent treatment approaches developed for LBP are recognized or applied by physiotherapists in Nigeria.

Objectives

To evaluate the current assessment and treatment practices used by physiotherapists in Nigeria for people with recent onset, recurrent and chronic LBP.

Design

A descriptive cross‐sectional electronic national survey.

Participants

Two hundred and sixty‐seven registered physiotherapists who treat LBP across all 36 states of Nigeria completed the survey anonymously via REDCap.

Results

Two hundred and sixty‐seven physiotherapists (mean age = 37.6 years, SD = 9.1; 53.6% female) completed the survey in full. Although most physiotherapists (> 95%) regularly applied traditional assessment methods (e.g., history of presenting complaint, observation for spinal deformity, palpation), only approximately 30% screened for red flag pathology. Very few physiotherapists assessed patients with LBP for psychological distress (< 8%) or risk stratification/prognostic factors (< 4%). For treatment, electrophysical agents and muscle techniques (e.g., massage) predominated (> 95%), while few physiotherapists used cognitive‐behavioural strategies (< 2%), individualised multimodal treatment programs (e.g., cognitive functional therapy, StarT Back or STOPS, < 1.5%), validated outcome measures (< 15%), clinical practice guidelines (< 10%) or a clinical reasoning strategy/framework (< 20%). Most Nigerian physiotherapists (> 99%) expressed interest in learning evidence‐based LBP assessment and treatment methods from international experts.

Conclusion

There is very limited application of contemporary assessment and treatment practices for LBP by Nigerian physiotherapists; however, they are very interested in learning these methods from international experts.
Emotional Configurations of White Shame and White Ambivalence for White Interns in a Secondary Science Teaching Program
Authors: McCausland Jonathan
Published: November 2024

As a part of the special issue Centering Affect and Emotion Toward Justice and Dignity in Science Edcation, this article draws together literature around emotions and white supremacy. Specifically, I draw upon the work of Reverend Thandeka and Ralph Ellison to describe emotional configurations (Vea, 2020) of whiteness. Focusing on the experiences of three White secondary science interns, I use storytelling to describe how white shame (Thandeka, 1999) and white ambivalence (Ellison, 1953/1995) mattered in how interns learned to be more antiracist within a secondary science program. In doing so, I argue white shame and white ambivalence are emotional configurations that are a part of learning for White secondary science interns and should be targets of learning for White secondary science interns.
Bayesian Nonparametric Model for Heterogeneous Treatment Effects With Zero‐Inflated Data
Authors: Kim Chanmin , Li Yisheng , Xu Ting , Liao Zhongxing
Published: November 2024

One goal of precision medicine is to develop effective treatments for patients by tailoring to their individual demographic, clinical, and/or genetic characteristics. To achieve this goal, statistical models must be developed that can identify and evaluate potentially heterogeneous treatment effects in a robust manner. The oft‐cited existing methods for assessing treatment effect heterogeneity are based upon parametric models with interactions or conditioning on covariate values, the performance of which is sensitive to the omission of important covariates and/or the choice of their values. We propose a new Bayesian nonparametric (BNP) method for estimating heterogeneous causal effects in studies with zero‐inflated outcome data, which arise commonly in health‐related studies. We employ the enriched Dirichlet process (EDP) mixture in our BNP approach, establishing a connection between an outcome DP mixture and a covariate DP mixture. This enables us to estimate posterior distributions concurrently, facilitating flexible inference regarding individual causal effects. We show in a set of simulation studies that the proposed method outperforms two other BNP methods in terms of bias and mean squared error (MSE) of the conditional average treatment effect estimates. In particular, the proposed model has the advantage of appropriately reflecting uncertainty in regions where the overlap condition is violated compared to other competing models. We apply the proposed method to a study of the relationship between heart radiation dose parameters and the blood level of high‐sensitivity cardiac troponin T (hs‐cTnT) to examine if the effect of a high mean heart radiation dose on hs‐cTnT varies by baseline characteristics.
Photophysical Properties and Metal‐Free Synthesis of Thiophene‐Based D─π─A Stilbenes with Enhanced Stokes Shift
Authors: Sakthivel Kokila , Singh Fateh V
Published: November 2024

A straightforward and practical nucleophile‐induced synthetic route for the synthesis of thermally stable, fluorescently active, functionalized stilbenes has been developed. The described synthetic method involves nucleophile‐induced, base‐promoted ring transformation reactions following a more traditional approach. All reactions occur at room temperature, yielding high amounts of the desired product with minimal byproducts. Due to the inclusion of a donor‐π‐acceptor system, all the produced stilbenes exhibited impressive emission characteristics. The resulting band gaps ranged from 3.37 to 3.93 eV, indicating a notable redshift. Solvatochromic investigations underscored these positive impacts. Furthermore, the TG‐DTA analysis indicated a single‐step evaporation process, and the compounds exhibited stability up to 375 °C.
The Relationship Between Perceived Discrimination and Social Adaptation of Migrant Workers' Children: The Role of Alienation and Psychological Capital
Authors: Wu Yushen , Chong Daohan , Xu Liping , Zhang Xichao
Published: November 2024

This study explores the relationship between perceived discrimination and social adaptation of migrant workers' children, as well as the mediating role of sense of alienation and the moderating role of psychological capital. A multi‐stage‐multi‐source longitudinal study design was adopted. A total of 423 Chinese migrant workers' children (Mage = 13.36, Female ratio = 39.48%) were recruited, and sample data were collected at three time points for 6 months. The results indicated that the interpersonal alienation played a mediating role between discriminatory perception and social adaptation. Psychological capital moderated the relationship between perceived discrimination and interpersonal alienation. Compared to participants with high psychological capital, interpersonal alienation played a stronger mediating role between perceived discrimination and social adaptation among those with low psychological capital. Perceived discrimination could reduce the level of social adaptation of migrant workers' children through interpersonal alienation. The social adaptation of migrant workers' children could be improved by improving the level of psychological capital.
Ultrasensitive NIR‐II Surface‐Enhanced Resonance Raman Scattering Nanoprobes with Nonlinear Photothermal Effect for Optimized Phototheranostics
Authors: Song Laicui , Li Jin
Published: November 2024

Surface‐enhanced resonance Raman scattering (SERRS) in the second near‐infrared (NIR‐II) window has great potential for improved phototheranostics, but lacks nonfluorescent, resonant and high‐affinity Raman dyes. Herein, it is designed and synthesize a multi‐sulfur Raman reporter, NF1064, whose maximum absorption of 1064 nm rigidly resonates with NIR‐II excitation laser while possessing absolutely nonfluorescent backgrounds. Ultrafast spectroscopy suggests that the fluorescence quenching mechanism of NF1064 originates from twisted intramolecular charge transfer (TICT) in the excited state. Gold nanorods (AuNRs) decorated with such nonfluorescent NF1064 (AuNR@NF1064) show remarkable SERRS performances, including zero‐fluorescence background, femtomolar‐level sensitivity as well as superb photostability without fluorescence photobleaching. More importantly, AuNR@NF1064 exhibits a nonlinear photothermal effect upon plasmonic fields of AuNRs by amplifying the non‐radiative decay of nonfluorescent NF1064, thus achieving a high photothermal conversion of 68.5% in NIR‐II window with potential for further augmentation. With remarkable SERRS and photothermal properties, the NIR‐II nanoprobes allow for high‐precision intraoperative guided tumor resection within 8 min, and high‐efficient hyperthermia combating of drug‐resistant bacterial infection within living mouse body. This work not only unlocks the potential of nonfluorescent resonant dyes for NIR‐II Raman imaging, but also opens up a new method for boosting photothermal conversion efficiency of nanomaterials.
Decelerating and Accelerating Sulfur Reduction Reaction via P‐OV‐In2O3 Enables High‐Performance Li‐S Batteries
Authors: Liu Siyu , Zhang Jiudi , Yang Jinzheng , Gao Yumeng , Wang Yali , Geng Lili , Mao Weixi , Guo Yajuan , Wang Haozhi , Li Junjie , Jin Zhanshuang
Published: November 2024

The sluggish sulfur reduction reaction (SRR) kinetics of lithium‐sulfur (Li‐S) batteries seriously limits the development of Li‐S batteries. The initial reduction of solid (S8) to liquid (soluble Li2Sn (4≤n≤8)) is relatively easy due to the low activation energy, whereas the subsequent conversion of liquid (soluble Li2Sn) to solid (insoluble Li2S2/Li2S) has much higher activation energy, which leads to the accumulation of Li2Sn and exacerbates the shuttle effect of Li2Sn. Therefore, establishing one selective catalyst that decelerates the previous solid‐liquid reaction and accelerates the subsequent liquid‐solid reaction is essential for rational tailoring of the SRR for improved performance of Li‐S batteries, but it represents a daunting challenge. Here, considering that the indium oxide catalyst possesses selective catalytic properties and drawing inspiration from the theoretical calculations, In2O3 nanospheres containing phosphorus doping and oxygen vacancies (P‐OV‐In2O3 NSs) are designed and synthesized as a selective catalyst for Li‐S batteries. Contributed by the unique selective catalytic capability, the batteries using P‐OV‐In2O3 NSs modified separators exhibit excellent sulfur utilization, superb rate performance (656 mAh g−1 at 5.0 C), and low‐capacity decay rate of about 0.069% per cycle over 500 cycles at 1.0 C.
Activating Lattice Oxygen by Electrochemical De‐Lithiation for Efficient Benzyl Alcohol Oxidation
Authors: Li Shujing , Tian Han , Luo Wenshu , Wu Han , Sun Wenping , Cui Xiangzhi , Shi Jianlin
Published: November 2024

Electrocatalytic benzyl alcohol oxidation reaction (EBOR) is a feasible way to produce high‐value‐added benzaldehyde and benzoic acid. However, the performance of catalyst usually suffers from the high energy barrier for the O─O bonding step resulting in sluggish process. Herein, lattice oxygen activation strategy is proposed by the electrochemical de‐lithiation of LiNiO2 to catalyze the EBOR through direct O─O bonding to significantly enhance the EBOR performance. The electrochemical de‐lithiation make the charge redistributed in Ni–O portion, leading to the lattice oxygen in LiNiO2 activated, thereby reducing the energy barrier of the O─O coupling step by following lattice oxygen mechanism (LOM). The constructed de‐LiNiO2 exhibits excellent EBOR catalytic activity featuring current densities of 100 and 400 mA cm−2 at only 1.397 and 1.431 V, respectively, outperforming the currently reported analogous electrocatalysts. The formation of high‐valence Ni4+ after de‐lithiation leads to direct O–O coupling between lattice oxygen in de‐LiNiO2 and oxygen‐containing intermediates in EBOR, favoring an energetically favorable LOM pathway, thereby enhancing the EBOR performance. This work provides a new strategy to enhance the electrocatalytic activity by changing the reaction mechanism rather than focusing on catalyst design, opening up a new path for the development of advanced biomass oxidation electrocatalysts.
Magnetically‐Controlled Graphite Alignment for Fast and Stable Anion Intercalation
Authors: Kang Jieun , Song Youngjin , Kim Sungho , Han Dong‐Yeob , Ryu Jaegeon , Park Soojin
Published: November 2024

Dual‐ion batteries (DIBs) are emerging as promising candidates for fast‐charging electric vehicles owing to their ability to intercalate both cations and anions. However, increasing the energy density of DIBs, especially with thick graphite cathodes, remains a challenge due to structural instability during anion intercalation. In this study, a magnetically controlled method is introduced to vertically align graphite particles in thick electrodes, significantly improving the performance of DIBs. This novel architecture creates dense, low‐tortuosity paths for fast anion transport and structural stability, allowing for high mass loadings exceeding 20 mg cm−2. The vertically aligned graphite cathodes demonstrate a discharge capacity of 1.02 mAh cm−2 at 5 C, retaining 85.6% capacity after 1000 cycles at 1 C, outperforming randomly and horizontally aligned graphite electrodes. Optimized electrodes also exhibit superior structural integrity and reduced formation of cathode electrolyte interphase compared to conventional designs. This study highlights the effectiveness of electrode architectural optimization in enhancing both energy density and fast‐charging capabilities, providing a straightforward approach to developing next‐generation DIBs with high performance and stability for practical applications in electric vehicles.
Refactoring to Standard C++20 Modules
Authors: Szalay Richárd , Porkoláb Zoltán
Published: November 2024

Good component‐based design for software projects is a desired property both for development and maintenance. The C++ programming language inherited the “translation unit” model from C, where every source file is individually compiled with no knowledge about other parts of the project. This model has several drawbacks, and C++20 Modules is the Standard's answer for them. Moreover, Modules allows a cleaner encapsulation of concern. This paper investigates a semi‐automatic modularization method to refactor existing C++ projects. Our approach uses dependency analysis and clustering to organize elements of an existing project into modules, without domain‐specific information. Based on our study of two medium‐size open‐source projects from disjoint domains and vastly distinct architecture, upgrading existing software systems to the new Modules feature is limited by the existing design of the project's architecture. To fully facilitate the use of Modules in a project, it is likely that both project‐internal and user‐facing interfaces must be changed.
Purification of Phenylethanoid Glycosides From Syringa pubescens Turcz. via Macroporous Resins and Comparison of Biological Activity
Authors: Zhang Zi‐Chen , Wu Yan‐Fang , Xiong Jian‐Sheng , Guan Xin‐Yi , Zhang Su‐Ya , Wang Xin‐Sheng
Published: November 2024

Syringa pubescens Turcz. has been universally employed to make flower tea for the treatment of cough in the western part of Henan Province. Many researchers have confirmed that the phenylethanoid glycosides from S. pubescens were bioactive compounds. In this study, various macroporous resins have been employed to evaluate the potential of adsorption and desorption for phenylethanoid glycosides. The HPD‐450 resins were appropriate for the purification of phenylethanoid glycosides, and the optimum purification conditions were established. The adsorption properties were well modeled using the pseudo‐second‐order kinetics. Meanwhile, the adsorption isotherm could be better represented by the Langmuir equation, suggesting that the process was an exothermic reaction. Moreover, the purified sample possessed a stronger antioxidant capacity. The inhibitory activity of the crude extract against α‐amylase and α‐glucosidase was stronger than that of purified sample. The findings obtained provided a scientific foundation for further research and high‐value exploration of this plant and a potential technique for scale‐up purification of phenylethanoid glycosides.
Encounters with Kampo medicine and its use in current position
Authors: Ogata Riko , Hakariya Arisa , Okada Shohei , Uneda Kazushi , Suzuki Tomio , Suzuki Tomoko , Takayama Shin
Published: November 2024

The symposium entitled “Encounters with Kampo medicine and its use in current position” was held at the annual congress of the Japan Society for Oriental Medicine (JSOM) on June 2, 2024, in Osaka, Japan. Five presenters had encountered Kampo medicine and its benefits in various medical settings according to their areas of expertise: primary care and community health, post‐emergency care, child psychiatry, research, and general medicine. The current work of the five presenters and their use of Kampo medicine may aid the many participants both in their learning of Kampo medicine and in their careers. This paper summarizes the contents of the enthusiastic presentations and discussions at this symposium. We hope that a similar symposium or presentation will be a regular occurrence at the annual congress of JSOM.
Comparison of Anaerobic Culture Methods for Detecting Clostridioides difficile in Bovine Faeces
Authors: Redding Laurel E. , Daniel Scott G. , Smith Alexander , Keenan Orlaith , Barnhart Denise , Zackular Joseph P.
Published: November 2024

Background

The study of the epidemiology of Clostridioides difficile in populations is greatly facilitated by the ability to isolate and further characterize individual organisms, which requires effective culture protocols. In cattle, where little is known about the epidemiology of C. difficile, no studies have assessed or compared the performance of different assays for detecting C. difficile.

Objectives

This study compared two culture protocols for detecting C. difficile in bovine faeces from 121 gestating cows and 70 of their neonatal calves, while situating results obtained with each protocol relative to those obtained with shotgun metagenomic sequencing.

Methods

Protocol 1 involved direct plating enrichment onto taurocholine‐cycloserine‐cefoxitin‐fructose agar (TCCFA), while Protocol 2 included an ethanol shock step before plating on CCFA/ChromID agar. For both protocols, one aliquot underwent broth enrichment prior to plating, while the other aliquot did not.

Results

Clostridioides difficile was detected following broth enrichment in two of the same calf samples using both protocols, and an additional cow sample was found to be positive with Protocol 2, though the difference in detection rates was not statistically significant (p = 1.0).

Conclusions

The detection of C. difficile in a much high number of these samples by shotgun metagenomics, albeit at low levels of relative abundance, suggests that neither of these culture protocols is sensitive when levels of abundance are low.