bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Body Composition and Incident High‐Intensity Back Pain and/or High Disability: A 10‐Year Prospective Population‐Based Male Cohort
Authors: Estee Mahnuma Mahfuz , Wang Yuanyuan , Heritier Stephane , Urquhart Donna M. , Cicuttini Flavia M. , Kotowicz Mark A. , Brennan‐Olsen Sharon L. , Pasco Julie A. , Wluka Anita E.
Published: November 2024

Background

Back pain poses a significant global burden, within which individuals with more severe symptoms consume higher healthcare expenses than those with lesser back pain. Whether measures of body composition predict high‐intensity back pain and/or high‐disability in population‐based cohorts is unknown. This study aimed to examine the association between body composition at baseline and their change in the prior 5 years (between 2001–2005 and 2006–2010) and incident high‐intensity back pain and/or high‐disability in long‐term follow‐up, 10 years later (2016–2021) in a population‐based cohort of men.

Method

This study examined men with no or low‐intensity back pain and disability (Graded Chronic Pain Scale) at back pain study baseline (2006–2010) within the Geelong Osteoporosis Study. Those developing high‐intensity pain and/or high disability at follow‐up (2016–2021) were identified. Weight, body mass index (BMI), abdominal circumferences, fat mass and lean mass (dual energy X‐ray absorptiometry) were assessed prebaseline (2001–2005) and at baseline. The association of body composition at baseline and change in body composition from prebaseline to baseline with incident high‐intensity pain and/or high disability at follow‐up were examined using multivariable logistic regression.

Result

Of 695 participants with no or low‐intensity pain and disability at baseline, 441 (62.3%) completed follow‐up with a mean age of 54.3 ± 14.1 years: 37 (8.3%) developed high‐intensity pain and/or high‐disability, 33 (7.5%) developed high‐intensity pain and 14 (3.2%) high disability. No measures of body composition at baseline were associated with incident high‐intensity pain and/or high disability at follow‐up in the whole population. In subgroup analysis, among men aged over 60 years, but not younger, higher lean mass was associated with decreased likelihood of high‐intensity pain and/or high‐disability (odds ratio [OR] 0.86, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.76, 0.97, interaction p < 0.001). In the whole population, examination of the relationship between change in measures of body composition between prebaseline and baseline, only a one unit increase in BMI, equivalent to 3.1‐kg weight gain, was associated with increased incident high disability (OR 1.63, 95% CI 1.06, 2.51).

Conclusion

In a population‐based sample, without severe back pain and disability, in older men aged ≥60 years, higher lean mass was protective of incident high‐intensity pain and/or high disability. An increase in BMI, over 5 years, equivalent to 3.1‐kg weight gain, was associated with incident back pain related high disability 10 years later. These results demonstrate another detrimental consequence of weight gain and highlight the importance of maintaining muscle mass in older men.
Prenatal Ultrasound Markers of Adverse Perinatal Outcomes in Newborns With Simple and Complex Gastroschisis
Authors: Caldas João Victor Jacomele , Peixoto Alberto Borges , Rolo Liliam Cristine , Araujo Júnior Edward
Published: November 2024

Objective

The aim of this study was to compare prenatal ultrasound markers and perinatal outcomes in newborns with simple and complex gastroschisis.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was performed on pregnant women with gastroschisis fetuses and their respective newborns between 2009 and 2019. Binary logistic regression was used to determine the best prenatal ultrasound markers of complex gastroschisis and adverse perinatal outcomes.

Results

After delivery, 36 gastroschisis were classified as simple and 10 as complex. Newborns with complex gastroschisis had a higher prevalence of early neonatal death compared to newborns with simple gastroschisis (30.0% vs. 2.8%, p = 0.007). The abdominal wall defect diameter became a significant prenatal ultrasound marker of neonatal sepsis [X2: 6.31 (1), OR:0.92, CI 95% (0.85–0.98), p = 0.020]. The presence of complex gastroschisis [X2: 7.33 (1), OR: 23.25, CI 95% 1.92–280.77, p = 0.013] was the only significant predictor of early neonatal death, and the presence of complex gastroschisis increased the risk of early neonatal death by 23.25 times. There was no significant effect of the type of gastroschisis in relation to gestational age, amniotic fluid index, intra‐abdominal intestinal dilation, extra‐abdominal intestinal dilation, and thickness of the intestine diameter.

Conclusion

Abdominal wall defect diameter was a significant prenatal ultrasound marker of adverse perinatal outcomes in newborns with simple and complex gastroschisis. Complex gastroschisis was a significant predictor of early neonatal death.
Regulation of Insect Hormones in Different Types of Diapause in Chilo Partellus (Swinhoe)
Authors: Tanwar Aditya K. , Dhillon Mukesh K. , Trivedi Neha , Hasan Fazil , Kirti Jagbir S.
Published: November 2024

Maize stem borer, Chilo partellus (Swinhoe) is a key pest of maize and sorghum. It undergoes both in estivation and hibernation depending on prevailing environmental conditions. Present investigations were aimed to decipher the regulation of ecdysone, 20‐hydroxyecdysone (20E) and juvenile hormone III (JH III) during different stages (prediapause, diapause and post‐diapause/pupae) of hibernation and estivation as compared to counterpart nondiapause C. partellus. Significant variations were found in the ecdysone, 20E and JH III titers in the hemolymph of different stages of hibernation and estivation over the nondiapause C. partellus. At the prediapause stages of hibernation and estivation, the 20E was greater than the ecdysone. However, the ecdysone and 20E downregulated, while JH III upregulated during prediapause stages of hibernation and estivation as compared to nondiapause larvae. During diapause, 20E decreased in hibernation, and increased in estivation as compared to their respective prediapause stages. The JH III significantly upregulated in diapause stages of hibernation and estivation over the nondiapause larvae. However, it was significantly greater in prediapause and diapause stages of estivation as compared to hibernation strain. During post‐diapause stage, the ecdysone and 20E titers were greater in estivation than in the hibernation and nondiapause strains, while JH III was greater in nondiapause than in the hibernation and estivation strains. These findings suggest the crucial role of these hormones in establishing switch between different stages of diapause and metamorphosis in C. partellus, which could further be useful to strategize sustainable management of C. partellus.
Paroxysmal atrial fibrillation is associated with poor sleep quality: Tamagawa cross‐sectional study on the relationship between lifestyle and atrial fibrillation (TAMAGAWA‐AF study)
Authors: Otsuka Toshiaki , Ikegami Haruhiko , Kodani Eitaro , Sakabe Kouichi , Hatano Hirokazu , Takami Mitsuaki , Hironaka Manabu , Fukai Kenichi , Yoshimoto Kazuya ,   the TAMAGAWA‐AF Study
Published: November 2024

Background

Quality of life (QOL) is reduced in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). However, data regarding the association between sleep quality, one of the major components of QOL, and AF are insufficient. This cross‐sectional study aimed to elucidate whether sleep quality is reduced in patients with AF.

Methods

We recruited 2054 consecutive outpatients (64 ± 10 years, 1089 men) who had regularly presented to 26 clinics affiliated with the Tamagawa Medical Association, Tokyo, Japan. The patients were divided into paroxysmal AF (PaAF), persistent or permanent AF (PeAF), and non‐AF groups. Sleep quality was assessed using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). The global PSQI score was calculated according to the answer to each question, and poor sleep quality was defined as a global PSQI score ≥6 points. Logistic regression analysis was used to obtain odds ratio for poor sleep quality in the PaAF and PeAF groups, relative to the non‐AF group.

Results

The PaAF group showed significantly increased odds ratio for poor sleep quality (1.49, 95% confidence interval 1.02–2.17), after adjusting for multiple potential confounders. In contrast, no significant odds ratio for poor sleep quality was observed in the PeAF group (1.09, 95% confidence interval 0.70–1.71). Among the PSQI components, poor subjective sleep quality and sleep disturbances were the main determinants of poor sleep quality in the PaAF group.

Conclusion

Sleep quality was found to be reduced in patients with PaAF, and this may be attributed to poor subjective sleep quality and sleep disturbances.
Projected Changes in Diurnal Temperature Range Over India Using a Coupled Ocean–Atmosphere Regional Climate Model
Authors: Jayasankar C. B. , Misra Vasubandhu
Published: November 2024

This study investigates the projected changes in the diurnal temperature range (DTR) over India and explains its considerable spatial heterogeneity from a 20‐km resolution coupled regional climate model (RSM‐ROMS) integration. The RSM‐ROMS is driven at the lateral boundaries by the Community Climate System Model version 4 (CCSM4) model. Observations reveal spatial heterogeneity in DTR trends with significant declining trends at many grid points interspersed with areas of either increasing or insignificant trends of DTR during each of the four seasons. The present‐day simulations from RSM‐ROMS show reasonable skill in simulating the daily maximum temperature (Tmax) and minimum temperature (Tmin) over India. Our results show a significant decrease in DTR over the Gangetic Plains in boreal winter and fall seasons and over southeastern India during boreal summer in the projected mid‐21st century climate under the RCP 8.5 emission scenario. The future reduction in DTR over Region‐1 (over Bihar and the eastern regions of Uttar Pradesh) during December–February (−0.86°C) and over Region‐3 (over the rain shadow regions of Peninsular India) during June–September (−0.49°C) is attributed to large changes in surface radiative fluxes, with some of the decrease in downward short wave flux attributed to an increase in high cloud cover at the time of Tmax while there is a considerable increase in downward longwave flux in the mid‐21st century climate. The enthalpy fluxes at the time of Tmax also act to reduce the rate of its warming. As a result, the warming rate of Tmax is less compared with the corresponding warming rate of Tmin, which leads to a reduction of the DTR in some regions that display a significant reduction in future climate. In contrast, Region‐2 (over Rajasthan) and Region‐4 (over northeast India) exhibit insignificant DTR changes in the mid‐21st century climate for lack of asymmetrical changes in Tmin and Tmax.
Otolaryngologists Demonstrate Low Agreement on Pediatric Airway Inflammation Assessment
Authors: Raj Sweeya V. , Prosak Olivia L. , O'Brien Kaitlin July , Park Jason S. , Zhao Shilin , Wootten Christopher T.
Published: November 2024

Objectives

Microlaryngoscopy and bronchoscopy (MLB) are essential tools for evaluating airway inflammation, but the reliability of endoscopic assessments for this purpose remains unclear. The aim of this study was to assess surgeons' interrater reliability during endoscopic assessment of airway inflammation. The endoscopic factors used to determine overall airway inflammation were also assessed.

Methods

We conducted a cross‐sectional study involving 24 pediatric patients who underwent MLB and arytenoid biopsy. Surgeons rated airway inflammation based on endoscopic images, and interrater reliability was assessed using Fleiss' Kappa.

Results

Fleiss's Kappa demonstrated poor interrater reliability among all surgeons (0.111) and experienced surgeons (0.117). Surgeons varied in prioritizing visual features for assessing inflammation.

Conclusion

Current subjective assessments of airway inflammation during MLB exhibit poor interrater reliability, necessitating further research for improved diagnostic accuracy and informed treatment decisions in pediatric airway interventions.

Level of Evidence

Level 3 Laryngoscope, 2024
Three sustainability case studies in the scholarly publishing ecosystem
Authors: Gadsby Oliver , Barsley Zoe Cokeliss , Hodgson Catherine , Davidson Scott
Published: November 2024

Key points

Of the UN's 17 Sustainable Development Goals, academic publishers and Higher Education institutions are focusing on Environmental Sustainability.

Oxford University Press has made progress on carbon neutrality for its operations; protecting biodiversity; and minimizing waste. Its ambitions go further.

Taylor & Francis has a goal of being a net zero carbon business by 2030, and has made progress in areas including reduction of book inventory and transport.

The University of Edinburgh has set targets of achieving net zero by 2040 and zero waste by 2030. It is ambitious in its further action, aiming to lead by example.

All contributors emphasize the collaborative effort required: within their organization, across their sector, and with relevant industry bodies. They usefully explore their own roles as agents of change.
Thin‐Film‐Lithium‐Niobate Photonic Chip for Ultra‐Wideband and High‐Precision Microwave Frequency Measurement
Authors: Yan Hao , Wang Zexu , Wang Siyuan , Li Zekun , Xie Yiwei , Hong Shihan , Liu Liu , Wang Ke , Yu Zejie , Dai Daoxin
Published: November 2024

Integrated photonic‐assisted instantaneous frequency measurements (IFMs) have been extensively explored and widely used in 5G/6G communications, navigation, automotive control, and radar systems. They offer significant advantages such as wide frequency, low power consumption, and immunity to electromagnetic interference compared to electrical solutions. As data traffic in high‐speed wireless communication systems and the operation bandwidth of advanced radar systems continue to grow, there is an urgent need for large instantaneous bandwidths and accurate frequency measurements to ensure signal integrity and efficient bandwidth utilization. However, achieving wide‐bandwidth and high‐precision measurements simultaneously with photonic IFMs remains challenging. Here, an integrated photonic IFM system based on a thin‐film lithium niobate (TFLN) platform is demonstrated that can dynamically identify signals with wide‐band frequency changes. The system incorporates a wide‐bandwidth Mach–Zehnder modulator (MZM) and a high‐Q Mach–Zehnder interferometer (MZI)‐coupled microring resonator (MRR) for double‐sideband suppressed‐carrier (DSB‐SC) modulation. Additionally, it includes dual‐stage frequency discriminator based on asymmetric MZIs (AMZIs) for both coarse wide‐band and accurate narrow‐band measurements. The proposed IFM system operates over a wide‐band frequency up to 67 GHz with a low root mean square (RMS) error of less than 123 MHz. This work opens up a path for high‐performance broadband microwave photonic applications using TFLN platform.
Utilization of Ultrasonication as a Method of Reducing Organic and Inorganic Contamination in Post‐Consumer Plastic Film Waste
Authors: Cecon Victor S. , Munshi Mita , Mukta Shahnaz , Vorst Keith L. , Curtzwiler Greg W.
Published: November 2024

Post‐consumer plastic film waste often carries organic and inorganic contaminants that challenge recycling processes and affect the quality of recycled products. An effective contaminant removal procedure through washing such single‐used plastic films (SUPFs) can address environmental and waste management concerns. This study compares the efficiency of different washing techniques in reducing SUPF contamination. To evaluate the efficacy of each washing technique, film samples collected from material recovery facilities are individually exposed to friction, ultrasonic‐assisted, and a combination of both washes. Thermal analysis indicates that the polymers' melting temperature, crystallization temperature, and crystallinity remain unaffected by the washing methods, demonstrating method aptness. Confocal laser scanning microscope images show that washing results in a cleaner sample surface. 91% ash reduction during the combined wash treatment indicates a high method efficiency compared to the individual friction and ultrasonic wash procedures. This is further validated by reducing characteristic contaminant IR bands (3600–3000, 1750–1600, and 1100–1000 cm−1). Elements of concern such as Cd, Cr, Hg, and Pb in SUPFs after each washing technique applied conform with regulations (<100 ppm) for packaging products. This research shows the novel ultrasonic washing reduces more contamination than friction with shorter wash times and no surfactants.
Temperature Sensitive Pluronic F127‐Based Gels Incorporating Natural Therapeutic Agents
Authors: Lupu Alexandra , Bercea Maria , Avadanei Mihaela , Gradinaru Luiza Madalina , Nita Loredana Elena , Gradinaru Vasile Robert
Published: November 2024

Pluronic F127 copolymer is used as the main component to design injectable gels for therapeutic applications. Xanthan gum is added as an excipient to improve gel properties under physiological conditions. A polyphenol bioactive compound, curcumin, is selected as therapeutic agent with beneficial effects on metabolism and many diseases. The encapsulation efficiency and stability of formulations are investigated in an aqueous environment and in acetic acid solutions. The interactions between the hydrophobic polyphenol and the polymer matrix are investigated through rheology, DLS, and FTIR spectroscopy. The viscoelasticity of gels, correlated with the network structure, is influenced by xanthan gum or acetic acid addition. FTIR analysis of curcumin incorporated into the gel provides the evidence for interaction of the phenyl rings of both keto‐enol and di‐keto tautomers with the polymeric matrix. The spherical curcumin‐encapsulated micelles provided antioxidant properties. The kinetics of curcumin release from the Pluronic F127‐based gels suggests anomalous transport phenomena controlled by diffusion through the network and hydrodynamic effects. Both gel and lyophilized form of micellar encapsulated curcumin composites exhibited good stability for long‐term storage under ambient conditions.
The Trade‐Off between Dechlorination and Polymerization for Facile Fabrication of Electronic Grade Epoxidized Cardol
Authors: Zhang Fengyan , Tian Zihao , Chu Liangyong , Lv Wenxiao , Shen Liming , Zhang Xiaoyan , Li Xiaobao , Bao Ningzhong
Published: November 2024

The dechlorination of epoxidized Cardol (E‐Cardol), which is a high‐performance and sustainable adhesive and packaging material for electronics, remains challenging. The previous work proposed a new alcohol‐sodium refining method to efficiently remove the chlorine of E‐Cardol. However, this method is strongly limited by the trade‐off between the dechlorination efficiency and its polymerization side effect, which leads to the viscosity as well as the epoxy equivalent increase of E‐Cardol. Based on the detailed analysis of the refining process using fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), simultaneous thermal analysis (STA), and nuclear magnetic resonance spectrometer (NMR) epoxidized Cardol (E‐Cardol), this trade‐off is studied. It is found that the dechlorination efficiency increases with the increase of the usage of the alcohol sodium. Meanwhile, when the residual alcohol‐sodium content after refining exceeds 3000 ppm, the viscosity of the E‐Cardol increases significantly due to the increased polymerization of E‐Cardol by epoxy ring‐opening reaction. It is demonstrated that the alcohol‐sodium refining method can efficiently reduce the chlorine content of E‐Cardol with the initial hydrolyzable chlorine content not higher than 3000 ppm to below 300 ppm without influencing their epoxy equivalent and viscosity. This paper thoroughly explores the mechanism and application range of the proposed alcohol‐sodium refining method, which is crucial for the facile preparation of electronic‐grade E‐Cardol materials.
Large‐scale Conformational Changes of Diindole Functional Groups Driven by Cation‐π Interactions and the Toughening Mechanism of Thermosets
Authors: Qiao Yuhan , Li Dongxin , Liang Qianqian , Kang Ming , Xu Yewei , Yang Li , Chang Guanjun
Published: November 2024

This is described that a new concept for the design of toughening supramolecular thermosets by incorporating diindole groups, which are functionalized via cation‐π interactions in covalently crosslinked networks. Large‐scale conformational changes of the diindole functional groups could occur under external forces, endowing the thermosets with excellent toughening properties.
How concerning is Lucifer? Insights from an experimental study of public responses to heat event naming in England and Italy
Authors: Summers Barbara , Taylor Andrea , Bellomo Pietro , Dessai Suraje
Published: November 2024

Summer 2023 saw record high temperatures across several European countries with these heat events being unofficially dubbed Cerberus and Charon. This has led to discussion about whether naming severe heat events is an effective way to convey the risks posed. In online experiments with regionally representative sample of members of the public in England and Italy, we assessed the effect of giving a heat event a mythological, non‐mythological or no name on anticipated severity, concern, trust/confidence and behavioural intention. We find that while naming alone does not have a strong effect on anticipated response to severe heat events in either country, going against the established trend of using mythological names in Italy could diminish concern.
Whitepaper urges investment in CSC for people with first episode psychosis
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: November 2024

Despite recent growth and its proven success, the number of Coordinated Specialty Care (CSC) programs remains insufficient to meet the needs of individuals experiencing early or first‐episode psychosis (FEP), according to a new whitepaper that provides insights from a national model and the impact of scaling access to care nationally.
Majority of Americans want doctors to ask about mental health
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: November 2024

A new survey released last week by West Health and Gallup has found that seven out of 10 Americans want their health care provider to ask about both their physical and mental health concerns during medical appointments, compared with 29% who say they want to be asked only about physical health. More than half of those surveyed say that someone in their household has been diagnosed with a mental health condition.
Pharmacokinetics comparison of aumolertinib, osimertinib, gefitinib and their major metabolites in mouse model and NSCLC patients
Authors: Ren Ran , Zhang Jiangang , He Yongpeng , Zeng Xianghua , Zhou Yu , Shen Luyao , Li Yongsheng , Li Dairong , Zhao Huakan
Published: November 2024

The tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), such as osimertinib and gefitinib, aumolertinib have been widely used in EGFR mutation‐positive non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients. However, the discrepancy of pharmacokinetic features and distributions in important tissues between these EGFR‐TKIs remains obscure. In this study, an ultra‐performance liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC‐MS/MS) method with specificity and accuracy was established. After a single equivalent dose ratio or equal dose gavage, aumolertinib displayed the shortest elimination half‐life time (t1/2), while it showed the largest area under the concentration–time curve in mouse plasma and bone marrow among these 3 EGFR‐TKIs. Furthermore, at the time of reaching maximum concentration (tmax) after single equivalent dose ratio gavage, the concentrations of aumolertinib were significantly higher than that of osimertinib and gefitinib in 9 important tissues of mice. Moreover, after single oral administration, aumolertinib displayed the highest concentration in plasma samples from EGFR mutation‐positive NSCLC patients. Collectively, our findings manifest that the bioavailability and tissue distribution features of aumolertinib are superior to those of osimertinib and gefitinib, providing a pharmacokinetic basis for the clinical application of aumolertinib and the development of next‐generation EGFR‐TKIs.
Sarcopenia screening and clinical outcomes in surgical patients: A longitudinal study
Authors: Tarnowski Micheli da Silva , Burgel Camila Ferri , Dariva Andressa Amaral , Marques Isabela Canquerini , Alves Lana Porto , Beretta Mileni V. , Silva Flávia Moraes , Gottschall Catarina B. Andreatta
Published: November 2024

Background

The SARC‐CalF was developed as a screening tool for sarcopenia, but little is still known about its validity in surgical patients. Thus, this study aimed to assess the prognostic value of SARC‐CalF in predicting clinical outcomes in patients admitted for any elective surgery in a hospital.

Methods

Cohort study with prospective data collection of surgical patients ≥18 years of age screened for sarcopenia within 48 h of admission using the SARC‐CalF (score ≥11 points classified patients at suggestive signs of sarcopenia). A standard questionnaire for sociodemographic and clinical data was filled and anthropometric data were measured. Clinical outcomes of interest comprised postoperative complications, length of postoperative hospital stay (LPHS), length of hospital stay (LOS), and in‐hospital death.

Results

Among the 303 patients admitted for elective surgery across various specialties (58.2 ± 14.6 years; 53.8% men) included, 21.5% presented suggestive signs of sarcopenia (SARC‐CalF ≥11). LOS (16.0 [10.0–29.0] vs 13.5 [8.0–22.0] days; P < 0.05) and LPHS (6.0 [3.0–14.5] vs 5.0 [1.0–8.2] days; P < 0.05) were longer in patients with SARC‐CalF ≥11 compared with those without this condition. The frequency of severe postoperative complications (23.1% vs 8.8%; P < 0.05) and the incidence of death (12.3% vs 2.9%; P < 0.05) were higher in patients with SARC‐CalF ≥11. However, in the multivariate analyses, no association between SARC‐CalF ≥11 and clinical outcomes was found.

Conclusion

Signs of sarcopenia (SARC‐CalF ≥11) were present in >20% of patients who were hospitalized for any elective surgery, but it was not an independent predictor of extended hospital stay, complications, and death.
Mediating Effect of Illness Perception on the Relationship Between Perceived Family Function and Sleep Quality Among Patients With Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Lu Xiaoqing , An Zifen , Xu Yuying , Zhang Xi , Fang Pei , Lu Yaping , Cai Zhongxiang , Yu Liping
Published: November 2024

Aims

To evaluate the sleep quality of patients with atrial fibrillation and its influencing factors, and explore whether illness perception mediates the relationship between family function and sleep quality.

Design

Cross‐sectional survey conducted from November 2020 to November 2021.

Methods

A total of 191 participants validly completed the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, the Family APGAR Index and the Brief Illness Perception Questionnaire. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, independent samples t‐tests, one‐way ANOVA, Pearson correlation analysis and multiple linear regression analysis. Bootstrapping was used to detect the mediating role of illness perception.

Results

Patients with atrial fibrillation reported poor sleep quality, good family function and a moderate level of illness perception. The better the family function, the lower the level of illness perception and the better sleep quality in patients with atrial fibrillation. Patients with commercial medical insurance had lower levels of sleep quality relative to self‐financed patients. EHRA III and EHRA IV patients had worse sleep quality than EHRA II patients. Illness perception played a significant mediating role in the relationship between family function and sleep quality.

Conclusions

Patients with atrial fibrillation have poorer sleep quality, and the type of medical insurance and EHRA score are independent indicators related to their sleep quality. Future health education and interventions need to focus on strengthening and improving the emotional support of family members in order to improve family function and reduce illness perception, thereby improving sleep quality of patients with atrial fibrillation.

Impact

This study provides further evidence that nurses need to enhance their awareness and provide ongoing education to better identify patients with AF who have family dysfunction and perceived high levels of illness threat perceptions, as these factors negatively impact sleep quality.

Reporting Method

This study was reported in strict compliance with the strengthening the reporting of observational studies in epidemiology (STROBE) guideline.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.
Structure‐Preserving Approximation of the Cahn‐Hilliard‐Biot System
Authors: Brunk Aaron , Fritz Marvin
Published: November 2024

In this work, we propose a structure‐preserving discretization for the recently studied Cahn‐Hilliard‐Biot system using conforming finite elements in space and problem‐adapted explicit‐implicit Euler time integration. We prove that the scheme is thermodynamically consistent, that is, the balance of global phase and global volumetric fluid content and the energy dissipation balance. The existence of discrete solutions is established under suitable growth conditions. Furthermore, it is shown that the algorithm can be realized as a splitting method, that is, decoupling the Cahn‐Hilliard subsystem from the poro‐elasticity subsystem, while the first one is nonlinear and the second subsystem is linear. The schemes are illustrated by numerical examples and a convergence test.
Histotaphonomic Signatures of Thermally Altered Human Skeletal Remains: Implications for Archaeological Interpretation
Authors: Meckel Lauren A. , Mavroudas Sophia R. , Goldstein Justin Z. , Garza Shelby L. , Gocha Timothy P.
Published: November 2024

Interpretations of burial sites from past populations have previously relied on archaeological artifacts, body position, and gross morphological skeletal analysis to reconstruct funerary practices. Recently, microscopic analysis of biotic and abiotic inclusions in bone have resulted in broad assumptions about the antemortem treatment of human remains, including whether the bioerosion is of endogenous and/or exogenous origin. To contextualize the diagenesis present in bone, researchers have developed indices to quantify histotaphonomic features including overall destruction (OHI, GHI), birefringence (BI), cracking (CI), and color changes due to burning (HI). Quantification of the histotaphonomy of bone also allows researchers to determine if the bone is preserved well enough for the application of histological methods, such as age‐at‐death estimation, which can contribute to the osteobiography of the skeletal remains. However, burned bone found at cremation sites may complicate these analyses if thermal alterations obscure histological structures. Though many studies have experimentally tested the impact of burning on bone, most have used excised bones, which presents a very specific example of the effect of burning on excarnated remains. The aim of this research is to test the histotaphonomic effects of thermal alteration on six fleshed human bodies using the indices listed above. One preburn sample of bone from the femur, sixth rib, and metatarsal was collected prior to burning, and the antimere was removed after the experiment, if recoverable (N = 33). These results show that the presence of body tissue and the amount of time the body is burned likely have the greatest impact on bone histological preservation. None of the remains showed evidence of biotic bioerosion, which was expected from previous research that suggests putrefaction in the early postmortem period contributes to microfocal destruction that can be observed soon after death.
Messaging with appeal to intrinsic or relational values shows potential to shift demand for wildlife as pets
Authors: Marshall Harry , Collar Nigel J. , Lees Alexander C. , Moss Andrew , Yuda Pramana , Marsden Stuart J.
Published: November 2024

Overharvesting of wildlife for trade is a key driver of biodiversity loss. Messaging that is aligned with people's values could play a significant role in reducing this impact through behaviour change.

Using an online survey, we sought to gauge the willingness among bird hobbyists, breeders, and song contestants to change their bird‐keeping behaviours, and to identify barriers to such change. We then evaluated the persuasiveness of various messages that potentially align with people's values (e.g. addressing conservation, cultural and health considerations), each framed as positive or negative, and with outcomes involving a move to commercially bred birds or cessation of purchasing wild‐caught birds.

We identified a degree of plasticity in behaviour, with most respondents perceiving the keeping of wild‐caught birds to be a conservation problem, and a majority claiming they would attempt to breed birds in the future. However, while most respondents acknowledged the illegality of both buying and catching wild birds, they also recognised that most birds in markets are wild‐caught because they are easier and cheaper to source than captive‐bred birds.

Messages about the damage done by over‐exploitation to wild bird populations, to the future of bird‐keeping itself, and about the benefits of keeping captive‐bred over wild‐caught birds, were most effective. Messages about generational, legal and especially health concerns appeared to gain little traction. The persuasiveness of these messages varied little across bird‐keeping groups, but age‐ and user‐groups differed in their most trusted sources of information and the media they consulted.

Our results suggest that appealing to people's concern over the intrinsic value of wildlife or the relational value of cultural heritage might be more effective at shifting demand for wildlife products than more instrumental or utilitarian considerations.

Effective messaging should focus on the negative impacts of over‐exploitation on Indonesia's wildlife and/or national heritage, and on the positive aspects of sustainable captive‐bred alternatives, and be transmitted via multiple media, including local and faith leaders (choice varying geographically), to maximise outreach to the diverse bird‐keeping community.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Association Between Perinatal Factors and Childhood Lymphoma—A Pooled Analysis of the ESCALE and ESTELLE Studies (SFCE)
Authors: Msallem Elissa , Pacquement Hélène , Olivier Laura , Brugières Laurence , Landman Parker Judith , Garnier Nathalie , Lambilliotte Anne , Faure Laure , Clavel Jacqueline , Bonaventure Audrey
Published: November 2024

Context

There is much interest in the perinatal period in relation to childhood cancer aetiology, with most studies focussing on childhood leukaemia. This work aimed to investigate the associations between pregnancy‐related and perinatal factors and childhood lymphoma.

Methods

We conducted a pooled analysis of two French nationwide population‐based case–control studies. Data on sociodemographic, perinatal and lifestyle factors were collected through maternal interviews. Odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were computed using adjusted logistic regression models, separately for non‐Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) and Hodgkin lymphoma (HL). Specific analyses also investigated Burkitt NHL and nodular sclerosis HL, two most common histological types in children.

Results

We included 305 NHL, 328 HL and 2415 controls in this study. No associations were observed with gestational age, foetal growth indicators, folic acid supplementation, factors related to maternal fertility and reproductive history, or maternal smoking during pregnancy. Maternal coffee consumption during pregnancy was associated with NHL (>2 cups/day, OR = 1.5 [95% CI: 1.1–2.1]), with a dose–response relationship; while maternal alcohol consumption was associated with Burkitt NHL (OR = 1.5 [1.1–2.2]). Paternal smoking during preconception/pregnancy was associated with NHL (OR = 1.4 [1.1–1.8]). Breastfeeding (ever/never) was not significantly associated with NHL and HL, but an inverse log‐linear trend was observed with the duration of breastfeeding for NHL (p = 0.04).

Conclusion

Maternal coffee and alcohol consumptions during pregnancy and paternal smoking during preconception/pregnancy might increase the risk of childhood NHL. While warranting replication, these findings could help us better understand the aetiology of childhood lymphoma.
Evaluation of crush and energy absorption characteristics of corrugated origami tube by additive manufacturing
Authors: Sun Xudong , Jiang Zhiyu , Zhao Jian , Xing Shaohua
Published: November 2024

Origami tube (OT) has attracted significant attention in the realm of thin‐walled structures owing to their remarkable energy‐absorption capabilities. Nevertheless, their deformation modes, particularly buckling, present considerable stability challenges. In this research, we introduce a novel corrugated structure to enhance the energy absorption and stabilize the deformation mode of OT. The corrugated origami tube (COT) was manufactured using high‐specific modulus, high‐strength, and lightweight short carbon fiber‐reinforced nylon via 3D printing, followed by axial quasi‐static compression tests. The findings demonstrate that the incorporation of corrugations in COT greatly stabilizes tube deformation, boosting energy absorption by 21.3% compared to OT and reducing the peak crashworthiness force by up to 21.37%. Finite element analysis accurately replicates the experimental performance of the COT, affirming the feasibility of the simulation. Optimization using the Non‐dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm II (NSGA‐II) produced a Pareto front, revealing trade‐offs among various crashworthiness indicators and offering a flexible design approach to meet diverse requirements. This study provides valuable insights and guidance for the design of lightweight, thin‐walled structures.

Highlights

The corrugated structure effectively stabilizes deformation mode of the OT.

COT significantly improves energy absorption and reduces initial peak force compared to OT.

The approach of multi‐objective optimization provides a variety of solutions for different needs.
Prenatal Phenotypic Expansion: A Fetus With Neurodegeneration With Developmental Delay, Early Respiratory Failure, Myoclonic Seizures, and Brain Abnormalities (NDDRSB) and MED11 Variants
Authors: Zhou Cong , Wang Weilin , Wang Hao , Mai Jingqun , Wang Xihan , Xue Li , Wang Jing
Published: November 2024

Neurodegeneration with developmental delay, early respiratory failure, myoclonic seizures, and brain abnormalities (NDDRSB) is an extremely rare but severe disorder. Here, we describe the case of a 24‐week‐old fetus from a Chinese family with healthy parents. The fetus presented with hydrops fetalis and abnormal limb posturing. Chromosomal microarray analysis revealed that the fetus had a heterozygous 17p12 deletion, which is associated with hereditary neuropathy with liability to pressure palsies. Trio‐based exome sequencing (ES) analysis revealed that the deletion was inherited from the father, who has a normal phenotype. Trio‐based ES identified a novel nonsense variant (c.229C>T, p.Q77*) and a rare nonsense variant (c.325C>T, p.R109*) in the mediator complex subunit 11 (MED11) gene. Both parents were heterozygous carriers for one of the variants in MED11. This is the first study to report the presence of hydrops fetalis and abnormal limb posturing phenotypes in fetuses with MED11 variants. These results expand the prenatal phenotypic spectrum of NDDRSB, which is helpful for genetic counseling and early prenatal diagnosis of fetuses with ultrasound abnormalities. In addition, the novel c.229C>T variant expands the spectrum of MED11 variants.
Association between mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists and kidney harm: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Mitsuboshi Satoru , Morizumi Makoto , Imai Shungo , Hori Satoko , Kotake Kazumasa
Published: November 2024

Conflicting data have been reported on the association between mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (MRAs) and acute kidney injury (AKI). This systematic review and meta‐analysis aimed to evaluate whether MRAs affect the risk of AKI. MEDLINE via PubMed, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and the ClinicalTrials.gov website were comprehensively searched to extract all relevant studies. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were selected that compared MRA versus placebo or no treatment and had study populations consisting of patients with heart or kidney disease. The primary outcome was AKI. The secondary outcome was kidney injury, including AKI and non‐AKI. Thirty‐three studies were included in the meta‐analysis. MRAs were not associated with an increased risk of AKI (risk ratio [RR] 1.13, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.88–1.46, p = 0.29, I2 = 15%, 18,065 patients, 13 RCTs, moderate certainty). For the secondary outcome, MRAs were associated with an increased risk of kidney injury (RR 1.52, 95% CI 1.24–1.87, p < 0.01, I2 = 48%, 27,492 patients, 33 RCTs, low certainty). In particular, only canrenone (RR 5.39, 95% CI 2.17–13.37, p < 0.01) and spironolactone (RR 1.78, 95% CI 1.48–2.14, p < 0.01) were associated with an increased risk of kidney injury. However, eplerenone and finerenone seem not to increase the risk of kidney injury in patients with heart or kidney disease. The selection of MRAs might influence the risk of kidney‐associated events. Further studies focusing on individual MRAs may be needed to clarify these differences.
“The World Isn't Black and White”: Adolescent Youth of Color Reflect on School Ethnic‐Racial Climate, Context, and Identity in Middle School
Authors: Durand Tina M. , Blackwell Ronnie
Published: November 2024

Contemporary scholars of race contend that the long‐heralded “American Dream” rhetoric continues to thrive within the ideology of colorblindness, whereby race is deemed insignificant. Public schools are not insulated from this, and recent political assaults the teaching of “divisive” concepts have already had a chilling effect on classroom content, posing a threat to the affirmation of racially marginalized students. Using qualitative interviews, we examined the salience of ethnicity‐race and ethnic‐racial identity for students of varied ethnic‐racial groups (n = 22) in a middle school community that was ethno‐racially diverse, but where White students constituted a large segment of the population. Guided by critical race theory (CRT) and phenomenological variant of ecological systems theory (PVEST), our analyses generated five thematic categories upon which ethnicity‐race were relevant to students: learning and appreciation for diversity, ethnic‐racial identity, teacher behaviors, student treatment, and same‐race peer connections and support. Findings are discussed in terms of implications for teachers and counselors to stand in solidarity with youth in challenging hegemonic whiteness in schools.
Gender differences in treatment effectiveness for borderline personality disorder
Authors: Qian Xinyu , Townsend Michelle L. , Grenyer Brin F. S.
Published: November 2024

Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is a psychological disorder that is diagnosed predominantly in females yet is equally as prevalent in males. Many empirical research studies on the treatment of BPD have been conducted with only female participants. We aimed to investigate the impact of current treatments for BPD on men compared to women. Using data from a larger ongoing longitudinal study, we matched 48 males with 48 females in treatment on age, overall functioning and psychological distress at intake and then accessed their progress in treatment after 12 months. Controlling for the initial scores at baseline, analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) analysis found significant differences in outcome measures at 12‐months follow‐up. Females had significantly greater improvements in BPD severity and greater improvements in internalizing symptoms such as chronic feelings of emptiness. Females also reported significantly greater satisfaction and ratings of health at follow‐up. These findings suggest that current treatment as usual for BPD could be more effective for women compared to men. Results from the study highlight the need for future studies to investigate the experience of males in current BPD treatment and to identify potential areas for modification to better cater to this population.
Multi‐Task Multi‐Fidelity Learning of Properties for Energetic Materials
Authors: Appleton Robert J. , Klinger Daniel , Lee Brian H. , Taylor Michael , Kim Sohee , Blankenship Samuel , Barnes Brian C. , Son Steven F. , Strachan Alejandro
Published: November 2024

Data science and artificial intelligence are playing an increasingly important role in the physical sciences. Unfortunately, in the field of energetic materials data scarcity limits the accuracy and even applicability of ML tools. To address data limitations, we compiled multi‐modal data: both experimental and computational results for several properties. We find that multi‐task neural networks can learn from multi‐modal data and outperform single‐task models trained for specific properties. As expected, the improvement is more significant for data‐scarce properties. These models are trained using descriptors built from simple molecular information and can be readily applied for large‐scale materials screening to explore multiple properties simultaneously. This approach is widely applicable to fields outside energetic materials.
Development and evaluation of RNA microsphere‐based RNAi approaches for managing the striped flea beetle (Phyllotreta striolata), a globally destructive pest of Cruciferae crops
Authors: Kong Linghao , Xu Jiazheng , Shen Weihong , Zhang Songhan , Xu Zhiping , Zhu Kun Yan
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND

RNA interference (RNAi) technology has emerged as a promising strategy for species‐specific management of agricultural pests. However, the application of this technology has been significantly hindered by the instability of the interfering RNA molecules in the insect body after ingestion leading to variations in the susceptibility to the RNA triggers across different taxonomic groups of insects. Therefore, it is necessary to develop new approaches that will overcome these challenges associated with the use of RNAi‐based insect pest management strategies. This study explored the use of RNA microspheres (RMS) synthesized via rolling‐circle transcription (RCT) technology as a potential method for managing striped flea beetle (Phyllotreta striolata), a globally destructive pest of Cruciferae crops.

RESULTS

The synthesized RMS against the genes encoding reticulocalbin (RMS‐PsRCN) and ribosomal RNA (RMS‐PsrRNA) were highly effective in both silencing their target genes and causing increased P. striolata adult mortality. Relative expression levels of the target genes RMS‐PsRCN and RMS‐PsrRNA were decreased by 74.9% and 68.92%, respectively, in RMS fed adults, compared with the control adults fed RMS‐EGFP. Consequently, the adult mortalities were 81.7% and 73.3% when fed RMS‐PsRCN and RMS‐PsrRNA, respectively, compared with 8.3% in the control adults. Furthermore, movements of adults fed RMS‐PsRCN and RMS‐PsrRNA were decreased by 70.2% and 55.7%, respectively, compared with the control adults.

CONCLUSIONS

This study shows the potential of using RMS to suppress the expression of target genes and subsequently produce significant mortality rates and behavioral changes in RMS‐fed adult P. striolata. These findings underscore the promises and viability of using RMS as an effective strategy for gene function studies and species‐specific management of agricultural important insect pests. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.