bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Carbonylation of Boranes – A Computational Study
Authors: Espinosa Ferao Arturo
Published: December 2023

The classical simple picture of stepwise B‐to‐C migratory insertion of all three alkyl groups in the carbonylation reaction of trialkyl boranes with CO was shown not to be correct, except for the first alkyl group shift affording an acyl borane. The second and third direct alkyl shifts turned out to be kinetically hampered due to the non‐activated character of the B−C bond in electron‐poor B atoms. The latter can only be achieved by either the autocatalytic action of the final alkyl boron oxide or by formation of dimeric species with weakened B‐alkyl bonds at borate centres. Both thermodynamic and several NICS‐related parameters pointed to scarce, even “negative”, aromatic character for boroxines, the final cyclotrimerization products of alkyl‐boron oxides.
Updating stereotypical attributions in light of new information: The attractiveness halo effect changes when attractiveness changes
Authors: Rougier Marine , De Houwer Jan
Published: December 2023

In the attractiveness halo effect, a single known piece of information about a target stimulus (attractiveness of a person) influences assumptions about a host of other attributes about that target (e.g. this person is socially competent or vain). We examined for the first time whether this effect can be updated, that is, whether new information about physical attractiveness (e.g. that someone is not as attractive as initially thought) can undo the effects of earlier information. Across three preregistered experiments (n = 1131), we obtained evidence of a halo‐update effect and showed that updating depended on the extent to which personality traits are stereotypically related to attractiveness (i.e. updating was larger for the traits that are typically influenced by attractiveness information). We also explored potential mediators of the halo‐update effect. By shedding new light on the malleability of stereotypical attributions, our work has both theoretical and practical implications.
Experimental Investigation of Chilled and Hot Water Inlet Temperature, and Mass Flow Rate Influence on Energy and Exergy Efficiency in a Prismatic Adsorbent Bed Cooling Systems
Authors: Shakir Ahmed M. , Ghareeb Ahmed , Güngör Ali
Published: December 2023

Adsorption technologies offer a promising solution for managing high electricity demand in building by leveraging waste heat recovery and renewable energy sources. The prismatic adsorbent bed adsorption water cooling system investigates energy and exergy analyses for cooling application. With hot water temperature of 80 °C, cooling water inlet temperature 30 °C, and chilled water inlet temperature 14 °C, the system achieves an energy efficiency of 45.2% while demonstrating an energy storage density of ≈340 kJ kg−1. As a result, the exergy efficiency reaches 12.2%, and the mass fraction at the end of the adsorption process is a significant value of 0.13kgadsorbate/kgadsorbent. Increasing the water mass flow rate in the evaporator results in a decrease in exergy efficiency, while simultaneously causing an increase in energy efficiency. With an increase in the chilled water inlet temperature of the evaporator and the hot water inlet temperature of the adsorbent bed, there is an increase in the energy storage density, energy efficiency, and exergy destruction due to irreversibility and losses. According to this study, the impact of the chilled water inlet temperature on the energy and exergy performances of the evaporator is more significant compared to the effect of the water mass flow rate.
Tailoring the SnO2 Ink for Roll‐to‐Roll Manufacturing of Flexible Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Lee Seung Yeon , Park Geon Yeong , Kim Na‐Yeon , Kang Minji , Kim Kiho , Cho Seong‐Keun , Choi Woojin , Myung Jin Suk , Ham Dong Seok
Published: December 2023

Roll‐to‐roll (R2R) fabrication of high‐performance perovskite solar cells (PSCs) remains challenging for PSC commercialization. Herein, the R2R‐suitable electron transfer layer (ETL) SnO2 ink system for flexible PSCs is investigated. Water‐dispersed SnO2 inks, commonly used for flexible PSCs, form dewetting pinholes during R2R slot‐die coating owing to slower evaporation compared to spin coating. To prevent the dewetting of the pinhole, a low surface tension solvent (isopropyl alcohol, IPA) is added to the SnO2 ink. The IPA addition reduced surface tension, enhancing wetting behavior, but increased SnO2 nanoparticles (NPs) aggregation. Interestingly, the fabricated ETL films with highly aggregated SnO2 NPs are smooth, in contrast to the rough layers obtained via the spin‐coating process, owing to the high shear rate. Herein, NP aggregation and surface morphology are explored using Brownian dynamics simulations under shear conditions. Consequently, when the particles are agglomerated, the PSCs with slot‐die coating exhibit higher power conversion efficiency compared to ETL spin‐coated PSCs. Therefore, IPA addition to SnO2 ink is preferred for the R2R slot‐die process by improving the wetting properties and forming smooth films. In this study, a framework is provided for obtaining high‐quality films using the slot‐die coating of ETL and promotes the commercialization of PSCs.
Influence of char‐forming lignin in combination with aluminium phosphinate on thermal stability and combustion properties of polyamide 11 blends
Authors: Mandlekar Neeraj , Cayla Aurelie , Rault Francois , Giraud Stephane , Guan Jinping , Salaün Fabien
Published: December 2023

Polyamide 11 (PA) blends based on char‐forming industrial lignin and aluminum phosphinate (AlP) were prepared to improve flame retardant (FR) properties using a green and eco‐friendly approach. This study investigates the thermal degradation and combustion behavior of PA blends prepared by using AlP in combination with two different types of industrial lignins (i.e., kraft lignin (DL) and lignosulphonate lignin (LL). Thermogravimetric (TG) analysis showed that ternary blends containing LL and AlP developed higher char residue up to 10.7 wt% upon decomposition in inert atmospheres. The combination of lignin and AlP increases the thermal stability by shifting the initial decomposition temperature (T5%) and temperature at maximum decomposition (Tmax) to a higher temperature range, attributed to the stabilization of decomposition products. Furthermore, combustion behavior studied by cone calorimeter (forced combustion) and pyrolysis combustion flow calorimeter (PCFC) tests presented a significant reduction in the peak of heat release rate (PHRR) and total heat release (THR). It was found that LL and AlP‐containing blends more effectively decreased fire parameters like PHRR and THR than that of DL and AlP‐containing blends. The best interaction with reduced fire‐retardant properties was obtained when 10 wt% loading of lignin (DL/LL) and AlP was used. The reduction in heat release parameters was mainly ascribed to the condensed phase mechanism by forming an efficient protective char layer, which acts as a barrier against heat and mass transfer between the condensed and the gas phases. Raman spectroscopy analysis also confirmed the formation of the protective graphitic layer in the condensed phase.
Dietary diversity practice and its associated factors among pregnant women in Eastern Ethiopia: A community‐based cross‐sectional study
Authors: Geremew Habtamu , Abdisa Samuel , Zerihun Ebisa , Gizaw Yitagesu Kifelew , Kassa Yoseph , Gashu Chalachew , Simegn Mulat Belay
Published: December 2023

Micronutrient insufficiencies during pregnancy have a marked impact on the health of the woman and her offspring. Evidence about the dietary practice of pregnant women is limited in Ethiopia, particularly in drought‐prone areas where food insecurity is widely seen. Therefore, this research aimed to assess the dietary diversity practice and associated factors among pregnant women in Chiro district, Eastern Ethiopia. We employed a community‐based cross‐sectional survey in Chiro district, Eastern Ethiopia. The data were collected from 417 randomly selected pregnant women using an interview‐administered structured questionnaire. EpiData‐3.1 and STATA‐14 were used for data entry and analysis, respectively. The binary logistic regression analysis was deployed to assess the association between dietary diversity practice and predictor variables. Out of 420 calculated sample size, 417 pregnant women completed the survey giving a response rate of 99.3%. The overall prevalence of optimal dietary diversity was 38.4% (95% CI: 33.7%, 43.2%). Educational status (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 2.71, 95% CI: 1.08, 6.81), meal frequency (AOR: 1.91, 95% CI: 1.11, 3.28), home gardening (AOR: 4.21, 95% CI: 2.48, 7.16), and household food security (AOR: 0.23, 95% CI: 0.13, 0.40) were independent predictors of dietary diversity practice.This study found that a substantial proportion of pregnant women had suboptimal dietary diversity, indicating a fundamental micronutrient inadequacy. Educational status, meal frequency, home gardening practice, and household food security were independent determinants of dietary diversity practice. The findings suggest that promoting maternal education and home gardening practice, and controlling food insecurity might enhance optimal dietary diversity.
Association of hypernatremia with mortality in patients with COVID‐19: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Ma Yongzhi , Zhang Panjuan , Hou Ming
Published: December 2023

Background

The COVID‐19 pandemic worldwide has caused varying degrees of severity of lung damage in patients, with acute respiratory distress and death in severe cases. However, this is not directly caused by the virus itself, but by the production of inflammasome by monocytes in the body, leading to a systemic inflammatory response, which results in a very poor clinical prognosis for patients with COVID‐19.

Objective

The purpose of this meta‐analysis was to look at the relationship between hypernatremia and mortality in COVID‐19 patients.

Methods

We searched the PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and Cochrane databases for articles published from the inception of the database until August 27, 2022. Three researchers reviewed the literature, retrieved data, and assessed the quality of the literature, respectively. A meta‐analysis was performed using State 17 software to assess the value of the effect of hypernatremia on mortality in patients with new coronavirus pneumonia.

Results

A total of nine publications was finally included in this study, including a total of 11,801 patients with COVID‐19, including 1278 in the hypernatremia group and 10,523 in the normonatremia group. Meta‐analysis showed that hypernatremia was associated with mortality in patients with COVID‐19 [OR = 4.15, 95% CI (2.95–5.84), p = .002, I² = 66.7%] with a sensitivity of 0.36 [0.26, 0.48] and a specificity of 0.88 [0.83, 0.91]. The posterior probability of mortality was 42% in patients with COVID‐19 hypernatremia and 15% in patients who did not have COVID‐19 hypernatremia.

Conclusion

According to available data, hypernatremia is associated with death in patients with COVID‐19.
Connecting the dots: Human papillomavirus vaccination gaps and the upsurge of oral human papillomavirus infection in United States of America
Authors: Farhan Kanza , Imam Syed Irtiza , Tariq Muhammad Burhan , Ahmed Aliza , Suheb Mahammed Khan , Akilimali Aymar
Published: December 2023

Synopsis

This Editorial calls attention to the worrisome rise in oral HPV infections in the USA, which has been related to an increase in oral sex activity. It emphasizes the need for increased vaccination rates, dispelling myths and addressing disparities in oropharyngeal cancer prevention.
External Evaluation of Population Pharmacokinetic Models for High‐Dose Methotrexate in Adult Patients with Hematological Tumors
Authors: Chen Shengyang , Huang Lifeng , Huang Weikun , Zheng You , Shen Li , Liu Maobai , Chen Wansheng , Wu Xuemei
Published: December 2023

Currently, numerous population pharmacokinetic (popPK) models for methotrexate (MTX) have been published for estimating PK parameters and variability. However, it is unclear whether the accuracy of these models is sufficient for clinical application. The aim of this study is to evaluate published models and assess their predictive performance according to the standards of scientific research. A total of 237 samples from 74 adult patients who underwent high‐dose MTX (HDMTX) treatment at Shanghai Changzheng Hospital were collected. The software package NONMEM was used to perform an external evaluation for each model, including prediction‐based diagnosis, simulation‐based diagnosis, and Bayesian forecasting. The simulation‐based diagnosis includes normalized prediction distribution error (NPDE) and visual predictive check (VPC). Following screening, 7 candidate models suitable for external validation were identified for comparison. However, none of these models exhibited excellent predictive performance. Bayesian simulation results indicated that the prediction precision and accuracy of all models significantly improved when incorporating prior concentration information. The published popPK models for MTX exhibit significant differences in their predictive performance, and none of the models were able to accurately predict MTX concentrations in our data set. Therefore, before adopting any model in clinical practice, extensive evaluation should be conducted.
Pharmacokinetics of Tacrolimus in Pregnant Solid‐Organ Transplant Recipients: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Versluis Jorn , Bourgonje Arno R. , Touw Daan J. , Meinderts Jildau R. , Prins Jelmer R. , de Jong Margriet F. C. , Mian Paola
Published: December 2023

Data on the pharmacokinetics of tacrolimus during pregnancy are limited. Therefore, the aim of this retrospective study was to characterize the whole‐blood pharmacokinetics of tacrolimus throughout pregnancy. In this single‐center retrospective cohort study, whole‐blood tacrolimus trough concentrations corrected for the dose (concentration‐to‐dose [C/D] ratios) were compared before, monthly during, and after pregnancy in kidney, liver, and lung transplant recipients who became pregnant and gave birth between 2000 and 2022. Descriptive statistics and linear mixed models were used to characterize changes in tacrolimus C/D ratios before, during, and after pregnancy. The total study population included 46 pregnancies (31 pregnant women). Nineteen, 21, and 6 pregnancies were following kidney, liver, and lung transplantation, respectively. Immediate‐release or extended‐release formulations were used in 54.5% and 45.5% of the women, respectively. Tacrolimus C/D ratios significantly (P < .001) decreased (−48%) compared to the prepregnancy state at 7 months of pregnancy. These ratios recovered within 3 months postpartum (P = .002). C/D ratios tended to be lower during treatment with an extended‐release formulation than with an immediate‐release formulation (P = .071). Transplantation type did not significantly affect C/D ratios during pregnancy (P = .873). In conclusion, we found that tacrolimus whole‐blood pharmacokinetics change throughout pregnancy, with the lowest C/D ratios (48% decrease) in the 7th month of pregnancy. In general, the decrease in C/D ratios seems to stabilize from month 4 onward compared to prepregnancy.
Transmitted drug resistance to antiretroviral drugs in Spain during the period 2019–2021
Authors: Viñuela Laura , de Salazar Adolfo , Fuentes Ana , Serrano‐Conde Esther , Falces‐Romero Iker , Pinto Adriana , Portilla Irene , Masiá Mar , Peraire Joaquim , Gómez‐Sirvent Juan Luis , Sanchiz Marta , Iborra Asunción , Baza Begoña , Aguilera Antonio , Olalla Julián , Espinosa Nuria , Iribarren José Antonio , Martínez‐Velasco Marina , Imaz Arkaitz , Montero Marta , Rivero María , Suarez‐García Inés , Maciá María Dolores , Galán Juan Carlos , Perez‐Elias Maria Jesus , García‐Fraile Lucio Jesús , Moreno Cristina , Garcia Federico
Published: December 2023

To evaluate the prevalence of transmitted drug resistance (TDR) to nucleoside and nonnucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTI, NNRTI), protease inhibitors (PI), and integrase strand transfer inhibitors (INSTI) in Spain during the period 2019–2021, as well as to evaluate transmitted clinically relevant resistance (TCRR) to antiretroviral drugs. Reverse transcriptase (RT), protease (Pro), and Integrase (IN) sequences from 1824 PLWH (people living with HIV) were studied. To evaluate TDR we investigated the prevalence of surveillance drug resistance mutations (SDRM). To evaluate TCRR (any resistance level ≥ 3), and for HIV subtyping we used the Stanford v.9.4.1 HIVDB Algorithm and an in‐depth phylogenetic analysis. The prevalence of NRTI SDRMs was 3.8% (95% CI, 2.8%–4.6%), 6.1% (95% CI, 5.0%–7.3%) for NNRTI, 0.9% (95% CI, 0.5%–1.4%) for PI, and 0.2% (95% CI, 0.0%–0.9%) for INSTI. The prevalence of TCRR to NRTI was 2.1% (95% CI, 1.5%–2.9%), 11.8% for NNRTI, (95% CI, 10.3%–13.5%), 0.2% (95% CI, 0.1%–0.6%) for PI, and 2.5% (95% CI, 1.5%–4.1%) for INSTI. Most of the patients were infected by subtype B (79.8%), while the majority of non‐Bs were CRF02_AG (n = 109, 6%). The prevalence of INSTI and PI resistance in Spain during the period 2019–2021 is low, while NRTI resistance is moderate, and NNRTI resistance is the highest. Our results support the use of integrase inhibitors as first‐line treatment in Spain. Our findings highlight the importance of ongoing surveillance of TDR to antiretroviral drugs in PLWH particularly with regard to first‐line antiretroviral therapy.
The roles of 6K protein on Getah virus replication and pathogenicity
Authors: Meng Hui , Mou Chunxiao , Zhang Liangjiu , Zhou Jingye , Lu Tianyuan , Chen Zhenhai
Published: December 2023

Alphavirus is a type of arbovirus that can infect both humans and animals. The amino acid sequence of the 6K protein, being one of the structural proteins of the alphavirus, is not conserved. Deletion of this protein will result in varying effects on different alphaviruses. Our study focuses on the function of the Getah virus (GETV) 6K protein in infected cells and mice. We successfully constructed infectious clone plasmids and created resulting viruses (rGETV and rGETV‐Δ6K). Our comprehensive microscopic analysis revealed that the 6 K protein mainly stays in the endoplasmic reticulum. In addition, rGETV‐Δ6K has lower thermal stability and sensitivity to temperature than GETV. Although the deletion of the 6K protein does not reduce virion production in ST cells, it affects the release of virions from host cells by inhibiting the process of E2 protein transportation to the plasma membrane. Subsequent in vivo testing demonstrated that neonatal mice infected with rGETV‐Δ6K had a lower virus content, less significant pathological changes in tissue slices, and milder disease than those infected with the wild‐type virus. Our results indicate that the 6K protein effectively reduces the viral titer by influencing the release of viral particles. Furthermore, the 6K protein play a role in the clinical manifestation of GETV disease.
Precipitation homogenization and trends in the Usumacinta River Basin (Mexico‐Guatemala) over the period 1959–2018
Authors: Jupin Johanna L. J. , Garcia‐López Alan A. , Briceño‐Zuluaga Francisco J. , Sifeddine Abdelfettah , Ruiz‐Fernández Ana Carolina , Sanchez‐Cabeza Joan‐Albert , Cardoso‐Mohedano José Gilberto
Published: December 2023

The precipitation variability and trends were investigated in the Usumacinta River Basin (URB) for the period 1959–2018, based on imputed and homogenized data records from 60 meteorological stations in Mexico and Guatemala. The homogenization process played a crucial role in enhancing the quality of the original precipitation series, reducing regional inconsistencies and improving temporal and spatial coherence. The dataset reliably captured large‐scale climate variations, revealing three regions with similar precipitation variability and trends in the URB. Notably, maximum precipitation occurred at 636 m a.s.l., while minimum precipitation was at 1531 m a.s.l., indicating an orographic effect in the region. Extreme precipitation events were linked to El Niño–Southern Oscillation. Although the Mann–Kendall test showed statistically significant negative trends in only 18% of the stations, integration of Sen's slope analysis and 30‐year normals and dry year occurrences highlighted a progressive shift towards dryer conditions throughout the study period in the URB. These drier conditions could notably affect regions with higher precipitation, requiring special attention due to possible socioeconomic impacts associated with drought events. By identifying these vulnerable regions, policymakers and stakeholders can proactively plan and execute adaptive measures to mitigate the potential impacts of droughts on communities, ecosystems, and economic activities within the basin.
Cup safe zone and optimal stem anteversion in total hip arthroplasty for patients with highly required range of motion
Authors: Habe Yukihiro , Hamada Hidetoshi , Uemura Keisuke , Takashima Kazuma , Ando Wataru , Sugano Nobuhiko
Published: December 2023

To avoid dislocation after total hip arthroplasty, it is desirable to avoid implant impingement during activities of daily living. Numerous simulation studies have been performed at 30° of internal rotation (IR) with 90° of flexion. However, these studies may not reflect the impingement that occurs during activities such as floor sitting, which require a larger IR during flexion. The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of varying IR angles during flexion on the impingement‐free safe zone and optimal stem anteversion. In this study, implant impingement simulation was evaluated in computer simulation. The prosthesis used a flat liner, and a 32‐ or 40‐mm femoral head and stem. Three patterns of required IR angle (30° IR/40° IR/50° IR with 90° flexion) combined with 13 directions of the required range of motion were simulated. The optimal stem anteversion to maximize the safe zone was analyzed. Increasing the required IR at 90° flexion decreased the safe zone, particularly with small stem anteversion angles. With a 32‐mm head, the desirable stem anteversion at 40° of cup inclination was 15°/25°/35° in required 30° IR/40° IR/50° IR with 90° flexion, respectively. The safe zone area of the 32‐mm head was smaller than that of the 40‐mm head. For patients who require a larger IR with 90° flexion, the stem and cup target anteversion should be adjusted according to the implant design, head diameter, and patient's required IR at flexion in their lifestyle.
Improved mortality prediction for pediatric acute liver failure using dynamic prediction strategy
Authors: Li Ruosha , Wang Jingyan , Zhang Cuihong , Squires James E. , Belle Steven H. , Ning Jing , Cai Jianwen , Squires Robert H.
Published: December 2023

Objectives

To develop and validate a prediction tool for pediatric acute liver failure (PALF) mortality risks that captures the rapid and heterogeneous clinical course for accurate and updated prediction.

Methods

Data included 1144 participants with PALF enrolled during three phases of the PALF registry study over 15 years. Using joint modeling, we built a dynamic prediction tool for mortality by combining longitudinal trajectories of multiple laboratory and clinical variables. The predictive performance for 7‐day and 21‐day mortality was assessed using the area under curve (AUC) through cross‐validation and split‐by‐time validation.

Results

We constructed a prognostic joint model that combines the temporal trajectories of international normalized ratio, total bilirubin, hepatic encephalopathy, platelet count, and serum creatinine. Dynamic prediction using updated information improved predictive performance over static prediction using the information at enrollment (Day 0) only. In cross‐validation, AUC increased from 0.784 to 0.887 when measurements obtained between Days 1 and 2 were incorporated. AUC remained similar when we used the earlier subset of the sample for training and the later subset for testing.

Conclusions

Serial measurements of five variables in the first few days of PALF capture the dynamic clinical course of the disease and improve risk prediction for mortality. Continuous disease monitoring and updating risk prognosis are beneficial for timely and judicious medical decisions.
Perceived air pollution reduces consumers' self‐disclosure: The role of tense arousal
Authors: Liu Wumei , Huang Heqing , Yang Qiaoying , Wang Cheng Lu
Published: December 2023

Consumers are often reluctant to disclose their personal information to retailers. How to promote consumers' self‐disclosure has been a focal point of interest for marketers and researchers. Using a total of eight multimethod studies (N = 5281) which composite a study with secondary data, a field study, a natural experiment, and five lab experiments, we show that a perception of high (vs. low) levels of air pollution decreases consumers' self‐disclosure willingness and behavior. This effect is mediated by tense arousal and moderated by (1) whether consumers are aware of the impact of perceived air pollution levels on tense arousal and (2) under which environment consumers disclose their personal information (an environment playing low‐paced soothing background music vs. a one playing high‐paced rock background music). We also rule out regulatory focus and mood valence as alternative process variables. Our findings extend past literature on perceived air pollution, tense arousal, and self‐disclosure. The results also suggest marketers, retailers, and service providers mitigate the negative impact of air pollution perception on consumers' self‐disclosure by playing low‐paced soothing background music in retailing contexts.
A series of unfortunate events: Do those who catastrophize learn more after negative outcomes?
Authors: Harada‐Laszlo Mia , Talwar Anahita , Robinson Oliver J. , Pike Alexandra C.
Published: December 2023

Catastrophizing is a transdiagnostic construct that has been suggested to precipitate and maintain a multiplicity of psychiatric disorders, including anxiety, depression, post‐traumatic stress disorder, and obsessive‐compulsive disorder. However, the underlying cognitive mechanisms that result in catastrophizing are unknown. Relating reinforcement learning model parameters to catastrophizing may allow us to further understand the process of catastrophizing. Using a modified four‐armed bandit task, we aimed to investigate the relationship between reinforcement learning parameters and self‐report catastrophizing questionnaire scores to gain a mechanistic understanding of how catastrophizing may alter learning. We recruited 211 participants to complete a computerized four‐armed bandit task and tested the fit of six reinforcement learning models on our data, including two novel models which both incorporated a scaling factor related to a history of negative outcomes variable. We investigated the relationship between self‐report catastrophizing scores and free parameters from the overall best‐fitting model, along with the best‐fitting model to include history, using Pearson's correlations. Subsequently, we reassessed these relationships using multiple regression analyses to evaluate whether any observed relationships were altered when relevant IQ and mental health covariates were applied. Model‐agnostic analyses indicated there were effects of outcome history on reaction time and accuracy, and that the effects on accuracy related to catastrophizing. The overall model of best fit was the Standard Rescorla–Wagner Model and the best‐fitting model to include history was a model in which learning rate was scaled by history of negative outcome. We found no effect of catastrophizing on the scaling by history of negative outcome parameter (r = 0.003, p = 0.679), the learning rate parameter (r = 0.026, p = 0.703), or the inverse temperature parameter (r = 0.086, p = 0.220). We were unable to relate catastrophizing to any of the reinforcement learning parameters we investigated. This implies that catastrophizing is not straightforwardly linked to any changes to learning after a series of negative outcomes are received. Future research could incorporate further exploration of the space of models which include a history parameter.
Dynamics of discrete Ricker models on mosquito population suppression
Authors: Jiang Ruibin , Guo Zhiming
Published: December 2023

Dengue fever is currently one of the most serious mosquito‐borne infectious disease in the world. How to effectively prevent the outbreak of dengue fever has become a matter of significant public health concern. In this work, the cytoplasmic incompatibility induced by Wolbachia is assumed to be complete. Based on this assumption, we establish an extended discrete Ricker model with overlapping generations to investigate the suppression of mosquito population in the wild by adopting two different release strategies: the constant release strategy and the proportional release strategy. We prove the nonnegativity, boundedness, and stability of equilibrium points and finally find the release threshold, denoted as
and
, for the successful suppression in these two release strategies. In addition, we demonstrate that the model that adopts the constant release strategy, respectively, has a saddle node bifurcation when
and a stable period‐doubling bifurcation when
. While in the case of proportional release strategy, the model exhibits a transcritical bifurcation when
and a stable period‐doubling bifurcation when
. Finally, we substantiate the conclusions through numerical simulations.
A predictor–corrector phase unwrapping algorithm for temporally undersampled gradient‐echo MRI
Authors: Kurian Deepu , Hagberg Gisela E. , Scheffler Klaus , Paul Joseph Suresh
Published: December 2023

Purpose

To develop a method for unwrapping temporally undersampled and nonlinear gradient recalled echo (GRE) phase.

Theory and Methods

Temporal unwrapping is performed as a sequential one step prediction of the echo phase, followed by a correction to the nearest integer wrap‐count. A spatio‐temporal extension of the 1D predictor corrector unwrapping (PCU) algorithm improves the prediction accuracy, and thereby maintains spatial continuity. The proposed method is evaluated using numerical phantom, physical phantom, and in vivo brain data at both 3 T and 9.4 T. The unwrapping performance is compared with the state‐of‐the‐art temporal and spatial unwrapping algorithms, and the spatio‐temporal iterative virtual‐echo based Nyquist sampled (iVENyS) algorithm.

Results

Simulation results showed significant reduction in unwrapping errors at higher echoes compared with the state‐of‐the‐art algorithms. Similar to the iVENyS algorithm, the PCU algorithm was able to generate spatially smooth phase images for in vivo data acquired at 3 T and 9.4 T, bypassing the use of additional spatial unwrapping step. A key advantage over iVENyS algorithm is the superior performance of PCU algorithm at higher
echoes.

Conclusion

PCU algorithm serves as a robust phase unwrapping method for temporally undersampled and nonlinear GRE phase, particularly in the presence of high field gradients.
Conjoined first (atlas) and second (axis) cervical vertebrae in an eastern wapiti (Cervus canadensis canadensis) from the Angel Site (1000–1400 CE, Indiana, USA)
Authors: Burtt Amanda Anne , Cook Della Collins
Published: December 2023

Atlantoaxial abnormalities are rarely documented among wild animals. Many defects of segmentation in the spine are hereditary in domestic species and humans. Here, we present a block vertebra in an eastern wapiti (Cervus canadensis canadensis) from the Angel Site (12Vg1) in southern Indiana (USA) dating to 1000–1400 CE. Diagnosis used macroscopic and radiographic examination. Evidence of inflammatory response and eburnation point to functional compromise. Recorded pathologies of this nature are underrepresented in the past and present. We suggest this specimen from an adult wapiti species represents a female as this condition would have been more debilitating in an antlered stag limiting the possibility of living well into adulthood.
A novel epoxy adhesive with metal organic framework (MOF) and poly(butyl acrylate‐block‐styrene) for bonding aluminum–aluminum joints: A complete overview of mechanical, thermal, and morphological properties
Authors: Kowsar Mohammad Javad , Moini Jazani Omid , Dini Ghasem , Moghadam Majid
Published: December 2023

In this study, MIL‐101 (Cr) and NH2‐MIL‐101 (Cr) nanoparticles were synthesized by hydrothermal method. Butyl acrylate‐styrene copolymer was used along with these nanoparticles to improve the mechanical properties of epoxy adhesive. The results of the Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) and X‐ray diffraction (XRD) test showed that the synthesis and functionalization of the metal organic framework (MOFs) were successful. The mechanical properties and adhesion features in the lap joint bonding of aluminum foil to the aluminum foil of modified epoxy adhesives were investigated by tensile and lap shear tests. The results of the tensile test showed that by adding 0.3 wt% of NH2‐MIL‐101 (Cr) and 2.5 wt% of poly(butyl acrylate‐block‐styrene) to epoxy adhesive, the tensile strength, modulus and toughness of dumbbell samples were increased up to 34.46%, 31.74% and 58.53%, respectively. Furthermore, based on the lap shear test results, by adding 0.3 wt% NH2‐MIL‐101 (Cr) along with 2.5% poly(butyl acrylate‐block‐styrene) to the epoxy adhesive, the lap shear strength of samples increased from 1.05 ± 0.08 MPa to 5.25 ± 0.06 MPa compared to the neat epoxy adhesive. According to the TGA test, the highest thermal stability is related to the sample containing 0.3 wt% of NH2‐MIL‐101 nanoparticles and 2.5 wt% of the copolymer. The image of the fracture surface of the sample containing 0.3 wt%. NH2‐MIL‐101 (Cr) and 2.5 wt% block copolymer shows that the interface of nanoparticles and the matrix improved due to the chemical reaction of functional groups of nanoparticles and adhesive matrix.
Synergistic effects of PtAu and PtAg nanoparticles in hydrogel composites for enhanced environmental catalysis
Authors: Zhang Anyu , Meng Dapeng , Zhang Jianan , Wang Zhao
Published: December 2023

Bimetallic nanoparticles were successfully synthesized within hydrogel composites by the glow discharge plasma reduction method at room temperature. The addition of Au or Ag effectively stabilized the valence state of Pt and prevented its oxidation. Due to the combination of low operating temperature and high specific surface area provided by the wrinkles and porous structures of gelatin, the metal particles exhibit high dispersion within the composite. The Gel‐Pt3Au‐5mM and Gel‐Pt3Ag‐5mM achieved a complete reduction of methylene blue (MB) in just 20 and 16 s, respectively. Properly selected components alter the electron density on the surface of composites, thereby enhancing the adsorbate's binding capability and reducing the activation energy barrier. This superior catalytic performance surpasses that of monometallic catalysts in the reduction of MB.
Targeting glutamine dependence with DRP‐104 inhibits proliferation and tumor growth of castration‐resistant prostate cancer
Authors: Moon David , Hauck J. Spencer , Jiang Xue , Quang Holly , Xu Lingfan , Zhang Fan , Gao Xia , Wild Robert , Everitt Jeffrey I. , Macias Everardo , He Yiping , Huang Jiaoti
Published: December 2023

Background

Prostate cancer (PCa) continues to be one of the leading causes of cancer deaths in men. While androgen deprivation therapy is initially effective, castration‐resistant PCa (CRPC) often recurs and has limited treatment options. Our previous study identified glutamine metabolism to be critical for CRPC growth. The glutamine antagonist 6‐diazo‐5‐oxo‐l‐norleucine (DON) blocks both carbon and nitrogen pathways but has dose‐limiting toxicity. The prodrug DRP‐104 is expected to be preferentially converted to DON in tumor cells to inhibit glutamine utilization with minimal toxicity. However, CRPC cells' susceptibility to DRP‐104 remains unclear.

Methods

Human PCa cell lines (LNCaP, LAPC4, C4‐2/MDVR, PC‐3, 22RV1, NCI‐H660) were treated with DRP‐104, and effects on proliferation and cell death were assessed. Unbiased metabolic profiling and isotope tracing evaluated the effects of DRP‐104 on glutamine pathways. Efficacy of DRP‐104 in vivo was evaluated in a mouse xenograft model of neuroendocrine PCa, NCI‐H660.

Results

DRP‐104 inhibited proliferation and induced apoptosis in CRPC cell lines. Metabolite profiling showed decreases in the tricarboxylic acid cycle and nucleotide synthesis metabolites. Glutamine isotope tracing confirmed the blockade of both carbon pathway and nitrogen pathways. DRP‐104 treated CRPC cells were rescued by the addition of nucleosides. DRP‐104 inhibited neuroendocrine PCa xenograft growth without detectable toxicity.

Conclusions

The prodrug DRP‐104 blocks glutamine carbon and nitrogen utilization, thereby inhibiting CRPC growth and inducing apoptosis. Targeting glutamine metabolism pathways with DRP‐104 represents a promising therapeutic strategy for CRPC.
gPKPDviz: A flexible R shiny tool for pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic simulations using mrgsolve
Authors: Lu Tong , Poon Victor , Brooks Logan , Velasquez Erick , Anderson Eric , Baron Kyle , Jin Jin Y. , Kågedal Matts
Published: December 2023

GPKPDviz is a Shiny application (app) dedicated to real‐time simulation, visualization, and assessment of the pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) models. Within the app, gPKPDviz is capable of generating virtual populations and complex dosing and sampling scenarios, which, together with the streamlined workflow, is designed to efficiently assess the impact of covariates and dosing regimens on PK/PD end points. The actual population data from clinical trials can be loaded into the app for simulation if desired. The app‐generated dosing regimens include single or multiple dosing, and more complex regimens, such as loading doses or intermittent dosing. When necessary, the dosing regimens can be defined externally and loaded to the app for simulation. Using mrgsolve as the simulation engine, gPKPDviz is typically used for population simulation, however, with a slight modification of the mrgsolve model, gPKPDviz is capable of performing individual simulations with individual post hoc parameters, individual dosing logs, and individual sampling timepoints through an external dataset. A built‐in text editor has a debugging feature for the mrgsolve model, providing the same error messages as model compilation in R. GPKPDviz has had stringent validation by comparing simulation results between the app and using mrgsolve in R. GPKPDviz is a member of the suite of Modeling and Simulation Shiny apps developed at Genentech to facilitate the typical modeling work in Clinical Pharmacology. For broader access to the Pharmacometric community, gPKPDviz has been published as an open‐source application in GitHub under the terms of GNU General Public License.
Tandem mass tag‐based quantitative proteomics analyses of the spermatogenesis‐ameliorating effect of Youjing granule on rats
Authors: Jiang Xuping , Zhu Wenjiao , Sun Yaoxiang , Wang Sijia , Sun Miaomiao , Tang Ruijie , Tang Zhian , Ma Tieliang
Published: December 2023

Rationale

Male infertility is a common reproductive system disease manifested as aberrant spermatogenesis and identified as “kidney deficiency and dampness” in Chinese traditional medicine. Youjing granule (YG) is a Chinese material medica based on tonifying kidneys and removing dampness. It has proven to be able to regulate semen quality in clinical application, but the underlying mechanism has not been clarified.

Methods

Using serum containing YG to treat primarily cultured spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs), the apoptotic rate and mitosis phase ratio of SSCs were measured. The liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry with tandem mass tags method was applied for analyzing the serum of rats treated with YG/distilled water, and proteomic analyses were performed to clarify the mechanisms of YG.

Results

Totally, 111 proteins in YG‐treated serum samples were differentially expressed compared with control groups, and 43 of them were identified as potential target proteins, which were further annotated based on their enrichment in Gene Ontology terms and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathways. Proteomic analyses showed that the mechanisms of YG may involve regulation of glycolysis, gluconeogenesis and nucleotide‐binding and oligomerization domain‐like receptor signaling pathway. In addition, RhoA and Lamp2 were found to be possible responders of YG through reviewing the literature.

Conclusions

The results demonstrate that our serum proteomics platform is clinically useful in understanding the mechanisms of YG.
Engineering anisotropic silver nanoparticles/TiO2 nanocomposites and its photodegradation process optimization under polychromatic light irradiation
Authors: Helene Gustavo Boniatti , de Souza Ono Pedro , Pellosi Diogo Silva
Published: December 2023

In this work, we engineered the functionalization of titanium dioxide (TiO2) with silver nanoparticles (AgNP) of different morphologies aiming the application of TiO2/AgNP nanocomposites as a smart photocatalytic material for environmental purposes. The characterizations confirmed TiO2‐Ag Schottky barrier formation, which allows the electron transfer process at the materials interface, increasing charge carriers lifetime. The photocatalysis process using methyl orange as a pollutant model in water and polychromatic Hg lamp was first maximized using factorial design statistics. Photodegradation kinetic evaluations showed that the nanocomposites were up to nine times more efficient than bare TiO2. The results show that dependence on AgNP size does not follow simple rules, while anisotropic AgNPs promoted higher efficiencies. Mechanism evaluation shows that photocatalysis occurred by three main routes: i) photoreduction of pollutant adsorbed on TiO2 surface; ii) reduction by radical superoxide; and iii) by hot electrons back injection on TiO2 conduction band. The effects ii and iii occurred preferentially at anisotropic nanostructures corners. In this scenario, photodegradation rates followed the order rod≥prisms>spheres. Therefore, this work systematic evaluated the influence of nanoparticle's morphology in the photocatalytic power of a TiO2/AgNP and points anisotropic AgNP‐functionalized nanocomposite as a promising nanomaterial for further environmental applications.
Antimicrobial Activity of N‐Substituted Derivatives of 5‐Chloro‐2,3‐ Diphenyl Indole
Authors: Sofan Mamdouh A. , El‐Ablack Fawzia Z. , Elsayed Aya I.
Published: December 2023

The indole motif plays a significant role in the quest for innovative drugs. As proposed, novel N‐substituted indole derivatives were synthesized, and their efficacy against bacteria and fungi was evaluated in vitro. The synthesis of these compounds was confirmed using easily accessible building blocks, and their structural formulas were supported by corrected analytical and spectroscopic analyses. Fresh strains of Candida albicans, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, as well as Bacillus subtilis and Staphylococcus aureus, were utilized to assess the antibacterial and antifungal activities. Notably, the derivatives 1‐(phenyl (piperidine‐1‐yl) methyl)‐1H‐indole and 4‐(1H‐indol‐1‐yl) (phenyl) morpholine have strong antifungal effects on Candida albicans that are equivalent to those of the widely used drug fluconazole.
Simultaneous Electrochemical Determination of Hydroquinone and Catechol by Lignocellulose Biopolymers Derived Porous Carbon
Authors: Zhang Meng , Lu Zhenyong , Zhao Jifan , Hasebe Yasushi , Zhang Zhiqiang , Wang Yue
Published: December 2023

Hemicellulose and lignin, which are main components of wood biomass with different structures, were carbonized and activated by KOH to prepare wood biomass‐derived porous carbons (WBM‐PCs). The resulting WBM‐PCs were characterized by SEM, XRD, Raman, FI‐IR, and N2‐adsorption/desorption isotherms, and successfully utilized as an effective modifier on the glassy carbon electrode surface (GCE) for simultaneous electrochemical determination of dihydroxybenzene isomers, i. e. hydroquinone (HQ) and catechol (CC), which are highly toxic and non‐degradable. The resulting WBM‐PCs‐modified GCEs allowed simultaneous determination of HQ and CC with cyclic voltammetry and constant‐potential amperometry. The linear range for determination of HQ by hemicellulose‐derived carbon (HC) was from 1.0 to 3000 μmol/L with the limit of detection (LOD) of 1.05 μmol/L, and that for CC was from 1.0 to 5000 μmol/L with LOD of 0.4 μmol/L. For lignin‐derived carbon (LC), the linear range for HQ was from 0.5 to 1000 μmol/L with LOD of 0.095 μmol/L, and that for CC was from 0.5 to 3000 μmol/L with LOD of 0.15 μmol/L. These results imply that wood biomass (hemicellulose and lignin), which is sustainable, renewable and environment‐friendly material, have potential as an effective precursor of electrochemically active porous carbon materials applicable to various electrochemical sensors.
Medical doctors' coping strategies with post‐earthquake stress and their relationship with presenteeism
Authors: Mete Burak , Demirhindi Hakan , Kahramanoğlu Pakize İrem , Şahin Ceren Kanat , Tanır Ferdi
Published: December 2023

Disasters can lead to decreased functionality in medical practice. This study aimed to quantitatively measure presenteeism and to determine the role of coping strategies among disaster‐victim doctors living in a city affected by the 2023‐Turkey earthquakes. This cross‐sectional study included 220 doctors reached through social media groups using the convenience sampling method. A weak negative relationship was found between presenteeism and positive re‐evaluation, one of the coping strategies with earthquake stress. A weak negative correlation was found between the Positive Reappraisal sub‐dimension score of the Coping with Earthquake Stress Scale (CESS) and presenteeism (r = −0.299, p < 0.001). In the linear regression analysis, the sub‐dimensions that contributed significantly to the model were found to be the Positive Reappraisal sub‐dimensions of CESS, whose increase resulted in a decrease in presenteeism and Seeking Social Support sub‐dimension, whose increase caused an increase in presenteeism. Presenteeism was higher in those who lost their loved ones, had damage in their workplace/home, and thought they were helpless or in danger. Both material and emotional factors decreased functionality at work after an earthquake. We recommend developing material and psychological support strategies to reduce presenteeism in post‐disaster periods.
“Sweat‐Driven” MXene Composites with Energy‐Storage and Thermal‐Management Multifunctions: A Platform for Versatile Electronic Skins
Authors: Wang Yi , Luo Zhiling , Zheng Zhonghua , Ye Xuhui , Xue Guanfeng , Qian Yongqiang , Chen Luzhuo
Published: December 2023

Most exogenous electronic skins (e‐skins) currently face challenges of complex structure and poor compatibility with the human body. Utilizing human secretions (e.g., sweat) to develop e‐skins is an effective solution strategy. Here, a new kind of “sweat‐driven” e‐skin is proposed, which realizes energy‐storage and thermal‐management multifunctions. Through the layer‐by‐layer assembly of MXene‐carbon nanotube (CNT) composite with paper, lightweight and versatile e‐skins based on supercapacitors and actuators are fabricated. Long CNTs wrap and entangle MXene nanosheets, enhancing their long‐distance conductivity. Furthermore, the CNT network overcomes the structural collapse of MXene in sweat, improving the energy‐storage performance of e‐skin. The “sweat‐driven” all‐in‐one supercapacitor with a trilayer structure is patternable, which absorbs sweat as electrolyte and harnesses the ions therein to store energy, exhibiting an areal capacitance of 282.3 mF cm−2 and a high power density (2117.8 µW cm−2). The “sweat‐driven” actuator with a bilayer structure can be driven by moisture (bending curvature of 0.9 cm−1) and sweat for personal thermal management. Therefore, the paper serves as a separator, actuating layer, patternable layer, sweat extractor, and reservoir. The “sweat‐driven” MXene‐CNT composite provides a platform for versatile e‐skins, which achieve the interaction with humans and offer insights into the development of multifunctional wearable electronics.