bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pharmacotherapy to Improve Cognitive Functioning After Acquired Brain Injury: A Meta‐Analysis and Meta‐Regression
Authors: van der Veen Ruud , Königs Marsh , Bakker Simon , van Iperen Andries , Peerdeman Saskia , Bet Pierre M. , Oosterlaan Jaap
Published: January 2024

Cognitive impairments, common sequelae of acquired brain injury (ABI), significantly affect rehabilitation and quality of life. Currently, there is no solid evidence‐base for pharmacotherapy to improve cognitive functioning after ABI, nevertheless off‐label use is widely applied in clinical practice. This meta‐analysis and meta‐regression aims to quantitatively aggregate the available evidence for the effects of pharmacological agents used in the treatment of cognitive impairments following ABI. We conducted a comprehensive search of Embase, Medline Ovid, and Cochrane Controlled Trials Register databases for randomized controlled and crossover trials. Meta‐analytic effects were calculated for each pharmaceutical agent and targeted neuromodulator system. Cognitive outcome measures were aggregated across cognitive domains. Of 8,216 articles, 41 studies (4,434 patients) were included. The noradrenergic agent methylphenidate showed a small, significant positive effect on cognitive functioning in patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI; k = 14, d = 0.34, 95% confidence interval: 0.12–0.56, P = 0.003). Specifically, methylphenidate was found to improve cognitive functions related to executive memory, baseline speed, inhibitory control, and variability in responding. The cholinergic drug donepezil demonstrated a large effect size, albeit based on a limited number of studies (k = 3, d = 1.68, P = 0.03). No significant effects were observed for other agents. Additionally, meta‐regression analysis did not identify significant sources of heterogeneity in treatment response. Our meta‐analysis supports the use of methylphenidate for enhancing cognitive functioning in patients with TBI. Although donepezil shows potential, it warrants further research. These results could guide clinical decision making, inform practice guidelines, and direct future pharmacotherapeutic research in ABI.
The impact of poor fetal growth and chronic hyperpalatable diet exposure in adulthood on hippocampal function and feeding patterns in male rats
Authors: Mucellini Amanda Brondani , Laureano Daniela Pereira , Alves Márcio Bonesso , Dalle Molle Roberta , Borges Mariana Balbinot , Salvador Ana Paula da Ascenção , Pokhvisneva Irina , Manfro Gisele Gus , Silveira Patrícia Pelufo
Published: January 2024

Poor fetal growth affects eating behavior and the mesocorticolimbic system; however, its influence on the hippocampus has been less explored. Brain insulin sensitivity has been linked to developmental plasticity in response to fetal adversity and to cognitive performance following high‐fat diet intake. We investigated whether poor fetal growth and exposure to chronic hyperpalatable food in adulthood could influence the recognition of environmental and food cues, eating behavior patterns, and hippocampal insulin signaling. At 60 days of life, we assigned male offspring from a prenatal animal model of 50% food restriction (FR) to receive either a high‐fat and ‐sugar (HFS) diet or standard chow (CON) diet. Behavioral tests were conducted at 140 days, then tissues were collected. HFS groups showed a diminished hippocampal pAkt/Akt ratio. FR‐CON and FR‐HFS groups had higher levels of suppressor of cytokine signaling 3, compared to control groups. FR groups showed increased exploration of a novel hyperpalatable food, independent of their diet, and HFS groups exhibited overall lower entropy (less random, more predictable eating behavior) when the environment changed. Poor fetal growth and chronic HFS diet in adulthood altered hippocampal insulin signaling and eating patterns, diminishing the flexibility associated with eating behavior in response to extrinsic changes in food availability in the environment.
Are fecal samples an appropriate proxy for amphibian intestinal microbiota?
Authors: Lam Ivan P. Y. , Fong Jonathan J.
Published: January 2024

The intestinal microbiota, an invisible organ supporting a host's survival, has essential roles in metabolism, immunity, growth, and development. Since intestinal microbiota influences a host's biology, application of such data to wildlife conservation has gained interest. There are standard protocols for studying the human intestinal microbiota, but no equivalent for wildlife. A major challenge is sampling the intestinal microbiota in an effective, unbiased way. Fecal samples are a popular proxy for intestinal microbiota because collection is non‐invasive and allows for longitudinal sampling. Yet it is unclear whether the fecal microbiota is representative of the intestinal microbiota. In wildlife studies, research on the sampling methodology is limited. In this study focusing on amphibians, we characterize and compare the microbiota (small intestine, large intestine, and feces) of two Hong Kong stream‐dwelling frog species: Lesser Spiny Frog (Quasipaa exilispinosa) and Hong Kong Cascade Frog (Amolops hongkongensis). We found that the microbiota of both species are similar at the level of phylum and family, but diverge at the level of genus. When we assessed the performance of fecal microbiota in representing the intestinal microbiota in these two species, we found that (1) the microbiota of the small and large intestine differs significantly, (2) feces are not an appropriate proxy of either intestinal sections, and (3) a set of microbial taxa significantly differs between sample types. Our findings raise caution equating fecal and intestinal microbiota in stream‐dwelling frogs. Sampling feces can avoid sacrifice of an animal, but researchers should avoid over‐extrapolation and interpret results carefully.
Red vision in animals is broadly associated with lighting environment but not types of visual task
Authors: Margetts Bryony M. , Stuart‐Fox Devi , Franklin Amanda M.
Published: January 2024

Red sensitivity is the exception rather than the norm in most animal groups. Among species with red sensitivity, there is substantial variation in the peak wavelength sensitivity (λmax) of the long wavelength sensitive (LWS) photoreceptor. It is unclear whether this variation can be explained by visual tuning to the light environment or to visual tasks such as signalling or foraging. Here, we examine long wavelength sensitivity across a broad range of taxa showing diversity in LWS photoreceptor λmax: insects, crustaceans, arachnids, amphibians, reptiles, fish, sharks and rays. We collated a list of 161 species with physiological evidence for a photoreceptor sensitive to red wavelengths (i.e. λmax ≥ 550 nm) and for each species documented abiotic and biotic factors that may be associated with peak sensitivity of the LWS photoreceptor. We found evidence supporting visual tuning to the light environment: terrestrial species had longer λmax than aquatic species, and of these, species from turbid shallow waters had longer λmax than those from clear or deep waters. Of the terrestrial species, diurnal species had longer λmax than nocturnal species, but we did not detect any differences across terrestrial habitats (closed, intermediate or open). We found no association with proxies for visual tasks such as having red morphological features or utilising flowers or coral reefs. These results support the emerging consensus that, in general, visual systems are broadly adapted to the lighting environment and diverse visual tasks. Links between visual systems and specific visual tasks are commonly reported, but these likely vary among species and do not lead to general patterns across species.
BatFly: A database of Neotropical bat–fly interactions
Authors: Zapata‐Mesa Natalya , Montoya‐Bustamante Sebastián , Hoyos Juliana , Peña Daniela , Galindo‐González Jorge , Chacón‐Pacheco Julio J. , Ballesteros‐Correa Jesús , Pastrana‐Montiel Maria Raquel , Graciolli Gustavo , Nogueira Marcelo R. , Mello Marco A. R.
Published: January 2024

Global changes have increased the risk of emerging infectious diseases, which can be prevented or mitigated by studying host–parasite interactions, among other measures. Bats and their ectoparasitic flies of the families Streblidae and Nycteribiidae are an excellent study model but, so far, our knowledge has been restricted to fragmented records at a local scale. To help boost research, we assembled a data set of bat–fly interactions from 174 studies published between 1904 and 2022 plus three original data sets. Altogether, these studies were carried out at 650 sites in the Neotropics, mainly distributed in Mexico, Brazil, Argentina, southern USA, and Colombia, among other countries. In total, our data set contains 3984 interaction records between 237 bat species and 255 fly species. The bat species with the largest number of recorded interactions were Carollia perspicillata (357), Artibeus jamaicensis (263), and Artibeus lituratus (228). The fly species with the largest number of recorded interactions were Trichobius joblingi (256), Megistopoda aranea (235), and Megistopoda proxima (215). The interaction data were extracted, filtered, taxonomically harmonized, and made available in a tidy format together with linked data on bat population, fly population, study reference, sampling methods and geographic information from the study sites. This interconnected structure enables the expansion of information for each interaction record, encompassing where and how each interaction occurred, as well as the number of bats and flies involved. We expect BatFly to open new avenues for research focused on different levels of ecological organization and spatial scales. It will help consolidate knowledge about ecological specialization, resource distribution, pathogen transmission, and the drivers of parasite prevalence over a broad spatial range. It may also help to answer key questions such as: Are there differences in fly prevalence or mean infestation across Neotropical ecoregions? What ecological drivers explain those differences? How do specialization patterns vary among fly species in the Neotropics? Furthermore, we expect BatFly to inspire research aimed at understanding how climate and land‐use changes may impact host–parasite interactions and disease outbreaks. This kind of research may help us reach Sustainable Development Goal 3, Good Health and Wellbeing, outlined by the United Nations. The data are released under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Do mindsets shape intentions to help those in need? Unravelling the paradoxical effects of mindsets of poverty on helping intentions
Authors: Graczyk Thomas , Wingen Tobias , Wingen Sophia , Dohle Simone
Published: January 2024

Poverty remains a pressing problem, with social support playing a crucial role in its reduction. Drawing on previous research on health‐related mindsets, we propose that a growth mindset of poverty – that is, believing poverty can be changed – can have both positive and negative effects on helping intentions through increased outcome expectancy and blame, respectively. In three experiments, we found that a growth mindset of poverty is associated with increased outcome expectancy and blame, which, in parallel, mediate the relationship between mindsets and helping intentions. However, these contrary indirect effects negate each other, yielding a total null effect. Further, manipulating the relationship between mindset and outcome expectancy (but not blame) alters the relationship between mindset and helping intentions (Studies 2 and 3). By shedding light on the circumstances under which mindsets of poverty can diminish or amplify helping intentions, our research offers valuable insights for practitioners and charities dedicated to combating poverty.
Selection and behavioral responses of health insurance subsidies in the long run: Evidence from a field experiment in Ghana
Authors: Asuming Patrick Opoku , Kim Hyuncheol Bryant , Sim Armand
Published: January 2024

We study the effects of a health insurance subsidy in Ghana, where mandates are not enforceable. We randomly provide different levels of subsidy (1/3, 2/3, and full) and evaluate the impact at 7 months and 3 years after the intervention. We find that a one‐time subsidy increased insurance enrollment for all groups in both the short and long runs, but health care utilization in the long run increased only for the partial subsidy group. We find supportive evidence that ex‐post behavioral responses rather than ex‐ante selective enrollment explain the long‐run health care utilization results.
Radiomic feature reliability of amide proton transfer‐weighted MR images acquired with compressed sensing at 3 T
Authors: Wu Jingpu , Huang Qianqi , Shen Yiqing , Guo Pengfei , Zhou Jinyuan , Jiang Shanshan
Published: January 2024

Compressed sensing (CS) is a novel technique for MRI acceleration. The purpose of this paper was to assess the effects of CS on the radiomic features extracted from amide proton transfer‐weighted (APTw) images. Brain tumor MRI data of 40 scans were studied. Standard images using sensitivity encoding (SENSE) with an acceleration factor (AF) of 2 were used as the gold standard, and APTw images using SENSE with CS (CS‐SENSE) with an AF of 4 were assessed. Regions of interest (ROIs), including normal tissue, edema, liquefactive necrosis, and tumor, were manually drawn, and the effects of CS‐SENSE on radiomics were assessed for each ROI category. An intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was first calculated for each feature extracted from APTw images with SENSE and CS‐SENSE for all ROIs. Different filters were applied to the original images, and the effects of these filters on the ICCs were further compared between APTw images with SENSE and CS‐SENSE. Feature deviations were also provided for a more comprehensive evaluation of the effects of CS‐SENSE on radiomic features. The ROI‐based comparison showed that most radiomic features extracted from CS‐SENSE‐APTw images and SENSE‐APTw images had moderate or greater reliabilities (ICC ≥ 0.5) for all four ROIs and all eight image sets with different filters. Tumor showed significantly higher ICCs than normal tissue, edema, and liquefactive necrosis. Compared to the original images, filters (such as Exponential or Square) may improve the reliability of radiomic features extracted from CS‐SENSE‐APTw and SENSE‐APTw images.
Reactive metabolite of trovafloxacin activates inflammasomes: Implications for trovafloxacin‐induced liver injury
Authors: Tanaka Saori , Noda Takumi , Urashima Kazuya , Ijiri Yoshio , Kohda Yuka , Kato Ryuji
Published: January 2024

Trovafloxacin is a quinolone antibiotic drug with broad‐spectrum activity, which was withdrawn from a global market relatively soon after approval because of serious liver injury. The characteristics of trovafloxacin‐induced liver injury are consistent with an idiosyncratic reaction; however, the details of the mechanism have not been elucidated. We examined whether trovafloxacin induces the release of damage‐associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) that activate inflammasomes. We also tested ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin, gatifloxacin, and grepafloxacin for their ability to activate inflammasomes. Drug bioactivation was performed with human hepatocarcinoma functional liver cell‐4 (FLC‐4) cells, and THP‐1 cells (human monocyte cell line) were used for the detection of inflammasome activation. The supernatant from the incubation of trovafloxacin with FLC‐4 cells for 7 days increased caspase‐1 activity and production of IL‐1ß by THP‐1 cells. In the supernatant of FLC‐4 cells that had been incubated with trovafloxacin, heat shock protein (HSP) 40 was significantly increased. Addition of a cytochrome P450 inhibitor to the FLC‐4 cells prevented the release of HSP40 from the FLC‐4 cells and inflammasome activation in THP‐1 cells by the FLC‐4 supernatant. These results suggest that reactive metabolites of trovafloxacin can cause the release of DAMPs from hepatocytes that can activate inflammasomes. Inflammasome activation may be an important step in the activation of the immune system by trovafloxacin, which, in some patients, can cause immune‐related liver injury.
Assessing various CO2 utilization technologies: a brief comparative review
Authors: Turakulov Zafar , Kamolov Azizbek , Norkobilov Adham , Variny Miroslav , Díaz‐Sainz Guillermo , Gómez‐Coma Lucia , Fallanza Marcos
Published: January 2024

Carbon dioxide (CO2) utilization technologies have emerged as a promising approach to address the direct and indirect consequences of climate change and the need for sustainable resource management. Those innovative technologies aim to capture and utilize CO2 by converting it into valuable products or directly using it as a chemical feedstock in various industries, thus, avoiding their release into the atmosphere. In this study, different CO2 utilization pathways including CO2 to chemicals and fuels, CO2 to building materials, CO2 to enhanced oil recovery (EOR), and CO2 to bio‐products are discussed in terms of their status – economic, environmental and technology readiness level performances. Moreover, various CO2 utilization pathways are comparatively analyzed considering their advantages and drawbacks, CO2 uptake potentials, and overall climate benefits. According to the comparison results, photocatalytic and electrochemical reduction of CO2 along with the bio‐fixation of CO2 are gaining more attention in the recent research and investigations, from the energy intensity and environmental point of view, whereas EOR remains dominant in terms of the scalability, maturity and economic benefits. However, limitations of EOR related to the capacity, life cycle and different geolocations, as well as the complexities of other mature approaches make room for emerging technologies to be more energy‐effective and environmentally friendly. Overall, most of the promising CO2 utilization techniques are either technologically immature or limited in scale to deploy globally. One of the main barriers to reusing CO2 is associated with the high cost of CO2‐based production and the low value of the CO2 market. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Adsorption and partition of the antibiotic ciprofloxacin in poultry litter
Authors: Effting Leticia Maria , Giona Renata Mello , Junior Ismael Laurindo Costa
Published: January 2024

BACKGROUND

The use of antibiotics on a large scale is a common practice in poultry farming. This research investigated the adsorption of the antibiotic ciprofloxacin (CIP) in poultry litter samples to assess the potential risk to ecosystems as a result of the compound mobility. This residue is used directly dispersed in agricultural soils as a biofertilizer.

RESULTS

Experimental data were evaluated in terms of fits of isotherm models. The mobility of CIP was assessed by the distribution coefficient and the partition coefficient related to organic matter. The studied poultry litter presented a pH of 8.5 ± 0.1, moisture content of 20.3 ± 1.3% and total solids content of 79.8 ± 1.2%, with a high amount of both inorganic matter (57.1 ± 1.7%) and organic matter (42.9 ± 1.7%) content in its composition. The Redlich–Petersen isotherm model satisfactorily described the experimental data, with higher maximum adsorption capacities at more alkaline pHs (pH 8.0 = 3015.0 ± 118.0 μg g−1, pH 7 = 2916.6 ± 1152.9 μg g−1 and pH 6 = 410.0 ± 18.1 μg g−1). The log Kd (pH 6 = 0.9, pH 7 = 1.2, and pH 8 = 1.4) and log Koc (pH 6 = 1.3, pH 7 = 1.7 and pH 8 = 1.8) values obtained for the sorption of ciprofloxacin at different pHs in poultry litter were considered low (log Koc < 3.5).

CONCLUSIONS

The analyte does not tend to adsorb in the poultry litter and might leach to other environmental compartments. The information obtained in this study reinforces the ecotoxicological concern about antibiotic residues in the environment. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
cGAS–STING‐mediated novel nonclassic antiviral activities
Authors: Hu Ying , Ye Runxin , Su Jiaming , Rui Yajuan , Yu Xiao‐Fang
Published: January 2024

Stimulatorof interferon genes (STING) is an intracellular sensor of cyclic dinucleotides involved in the innate immune response against pathogen‐ or self‐derived DNA. For years, interferon (IFN) induction of cyclic GMP–AMP synthase (cGAS)–STING has been considered as a canonical pattern defending the host from viral invasion. The mechanism of the cGAS–STING–IFN pathway has been well‐illustrated. However, other signalling cascades driven by cGAS–STING have emerged in recent years and some of them have been found to possess antiviral ability independent of IFN. Here, we summarize the current progress on cGAS–STING‐mediated nonclassic antiviral activities with an emphasis on the nuclear factor‐κB and autophagy pathways, which are the most‐studied pathways. In addition, we briefly present the primordial function of the cGAS–STING pathway in primitive species to show the importance of IFN‐unrelated antiviral activity from an evolutionary angle. Finally, we discuss open questions that need to be solved for further exploitation of this field.
Simulating the impact of optimized prevention and control measures on the transmission of monkeypox in the United States: A model‐based study
Authors: Cao Yawen , Fang Wenbin , Chen Yingying , Zhang Hengchuan , Ni Ruyu , Pan Guixia
Published: January 2024

This study aimed to develop a modified susceptible‐exposed–infected–recovered (SEIR) model to evaluate monkeypox epidemics in the United States and explore more optimized prevention and control measures. To further assess the impact of public health measures on the transmission of monkeypox, different intervention scenarios were developed based on the classic SEIR model, considering reducing contact, enhancing vaccination, diagnosis delay, and environmental transmission risk, respectively. We evaluated the impact of different measures by simulating their spread in different scenarios. During the simulation period, 8709 people were infected with monkeypox. The simulation analysis showed that: (1) the most effective measures to control monkeypox transmission during the early stage of the epidemic were reducing contact and enhancing vaccination, with cumulative infections at 51.20% and 41.90% of baseline levels, respectively; (2) shortening diagnosis time would delay the peak time of the epidemic by 96 days; and (3) the risk of environmental transmission of monkeypox virus was relatively low. This study indirectly proved the effectiveness of the prevention and control measures, such as reducing contact, enhancing vaccination, shortening diagnosis time, and low risk of environmental transmission, which also provided an important reference and containment experience for nonepidemic countries.
Strengthening Creative Problem‐Solving within Upper‐Elementary Science Education
Authors: Willemsen Robin H. , de Vink Isabelle C. , Kroesbergen Evelyn H. , Lazonder Ard W.
Published: January 2024

This intervention study examined the effectiveness of instructional support tailored toward two techniques (i.e., random associations and constraint identification) to strengthen children's creative problem‐solving skills within upper‐elementary science education. Five inquiry‐based science lessons with ample opportunity for creative problem‐solving (i.e., divergent and convergent thinking) were provided. Children were assigned to a condition with instructional support (n = 107) or without (n = 134). Domain‐general and specific measures of divergent and convergent thinking were included, and reading comprehension as well as mathematical ability were taken into account. Repeated measures multivariate analyses of covariance revealed how all children improved in terms of domain‐general convergent thinking, with a larger increase for children who performed better in mathematics. This shows a promising premise for future research focusing on the domain generality of convergent thinking and for the potential of transfer across domains. No additional improvement based on instructional support was found and children did not improve in terms of divergent thinking. The constraint identification and random associations technique might not be suitable for elementary school children, yet future research is necessary to validate such claims. Meanwhile, teachers could possibly support convergent thinking by simply providing exercises for divergent and convergent thinking.
Synthesis, characterization, and corrosion protection potential of a highly effective and water‐miscible surfactant for mild steel in sulfuric acid solution
Authors: Yaagoob Ibrahim Y. , Goni Lipiar K. M. O. , Mazumder Mohammad A. J. , Verma Chandrabhan , Ali Shaikh A. , Alfantazi Akram
Published: January 2024

In the current study, a tetracationic quaternary ammonium salt (TCQAC) was synthesized and characterized and its ability to suppress corrosion on mild steel (MS) in a 0.5 M H2SO4 solution was examined. Various chemical, electrochemical, and surface characterization techniques were utilized to study the inhibition efficiency of TCQAC. The TCQAC manifests 99.83% efficiency at 20 ppm concentration. Out of all the examined isotherm models, the Langmuir isotherm offered the best fit for the TCQAC adsorption on the MS surface. A very high negative value of ΔGads (−45.18 kJ mol−1) suggests that the adsorption of TCQAC followed the chemisorption mechanism. Electrochemical studies indicate that TCQAC increases the linear and charge transfer resistances (LPR and Rct, respectively). TCQAC slows down the anodic and cathodic Tafel reactions; however, it acts as an anodic‐type inhibitor at 5, 10, and 20 ppm. The appearance of extra Cl and N signals in the energy dispersive x‐ray (EDX) spectrum and an improvement in surface smoothness in the scanning electron microscope (SEM) image of the inhibited sample corroborated the adsorption method of corrosion inhibition. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) study indicates that TCQAC creates corrosion preventive layers by chemical adsorption. In Frontier molecular orbitals (FMOs), highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) and lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) were delocalized around the central part that comprises two benzyls, four allyls, and one hydrocarbon ((CH2)6) moieties and two quaternary nitrogen atoms. The outcomes of XPS and density functional theory (DFT) analyses indicate that the chemisorption of TCQAC occurs by dπ–pπ bonding with the surface iron atoms. The π‐electrons of aryl and allyl moieties extensively participate in the bonding.
The inhibitory action of lactocin 63 on deterioration of seabass (Lateolabrax japonicus) during chilled storage
Authors: Wu Peifen , Yang Jie , Meng Xiaojie , Weng Yanlin , Lin Yayi , Li Ruili , Lv Xucong , Ni Li , Han Jin‐Zhi , Fu Caili
Published: January 2024

Background

The bacteriocins, particularly derived from lactic acid bacteria, currently exhibit potential as a promising food preservative owing to their low toxicity and potent antimicrobial activity. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of lactocin 63, produced by Lactobacillus coryniformis, in inhibiting the deterioration of Lateolabrax japonicas during chilled storage, while also investigating its underlying inhibitory mechanism. The measurement of total viable count, biogenic amines, and volatile organic compounds were conducted, along with high‐throughput sequencing and sensory evaluation.

Results

The findings demonstrated that treatment with lactocin 63 resulted in a notable retardation of bacterial growth in L. japonicas fish fillet during refrigerated storage compared with the water‐treated and nisin‐treated groups. Moreover, lactocin 63 effectively maintained the microbial flora balance in the fish fillet and inhibited the proliferation and metabolic activity of specific spoilage microorganisms, particularly Shewanella, Pseudomonas, and Acinetobacter. Furthermore, the production of unacceptable volatile organic compounds (e.g. 1‐octen‐3‐ol, hexanal, nonanal), as well as the biogenic amines derived from the bacterial metabolism, could be hindered, thus preventing the degradation in the quality of fish fillets and sustaining relatively high sensory quality.

Conclusion

The results of this study provide valuable theoretical support for the development and application of lactocin 63, or other bacteriocins derived from lactic acid bacteria, as potential bio‐preservatives in aquatic food. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Linguistic and affective characteristics of script‐driven imagery for adults with posttraumatic stress order: Associations with clinical outcomes during deep transcranial magnetic stimulation
Authors: Guzick Andrew G. , Tendler Aron , Brown Lily A. , Onyeka Ogechi C. , Storch Eric A.
Published: January 2024

Brief exposure to traumatic memories using script‐driven imagery (SDI) has been proposed as a promising treatment for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This study investigated the effect of SDI plus active versus sham deep transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) in a secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial for adults with PTSD (N = 134). Linguistic features of scripts and self‐reported distress during a 12‐session deep TMS treatment protocol were examined as they related to (a) baseline PTSD symptom severity, (b) trauma characteristics, and (c) treatment outcomes. Linguistic Inquiry and Word Count (LIWC) software was used to analyze the following linguistic features of SDIs: negative emotion, authenticity, and cognitive processing. More use of negative emotion words was associated with less severe self‐reported and clinician‐rated baseline PTSD symptom severity, r = ‐.18, p = .038. LIWC features did not differ based on index trauma type, range: F(3, 125) = 0.29–0.49, ps = .688–.831. Between‐session reductions in self‐reported distress across SDI trials predicted PTSD symptom improvement across both conditions at 5‐week, B = ‐15.68, p = .010, and 9‐week endpoints, B = ‐16.38, p = .011. Initial self‐reported distress and linguistic features were not associated with treatment outcomes. The findings suggest that individuals with PTSD who experience between‐session habituation to SDI‐related distress are likely to experience a corresponding improvement in PTSD symptoms.
Environmental heterogeneity and habitat use of the red viscacha rat in drylands of west‐central Argentina
Authors: Tarquino‐Carbonell Andrea P. , Ojeda Ricardo A. , Sobrero Raúl , Ojeda Agustina A.
Published: January 2024

Environmental heterogeneity shapes the traits of natural populations, including space use and burrowing behavior. We studied the red viscacha rat (Tympanoctomys barrerae), a semifossorial rodent with patchy distribution in drylands of west‐central Argentina, to provide ecological data on habitat and burrow features of this specialist species. We collected data on 165 burrows and 55 individuals from 2017–2018 and observed correlations between different vegetation types, vegetation diversity, and physical attributes (e.g., soil hardness). A high number of individual red viscacha rats was negatively associated with herbs. The number of burrow entrances was positively associated with harder soils and negatively associated with vegetation cover. Our results suggest that the species' patchy distribution is strongly associated with environmental heterogeneity of these arid environments, and consequently provide an essential step towards conserving their populations across their geographic range.
Measurement of TT‐TG can change with sequential MRIs due to variations in tibiofemoral rotation in patellofemoral instability patients
Authors: Pascual‐Leone Nicolas , Chipman Danielle E. , Davie Ryann , Bram Joshua T. , Mintz Douglas N. , Fabricant Peter D. , Green Daniel W.
Published: January 2024

Purpose

There are various anatomic risk factors for patellofemoral instability (PFI) that help guide surgical treatment, including the tibial tubercle to trochlear groove (TT‐TG) distance. However, no study has analysed the temporal changes in TT‐TG prior to surgical intervention. This study sought to understand the variations in TT‐TG over time for pediatric patients suffering from PFI prior to surgical intervention. The authors hypothesised that the TT‐TG would substantially change between time points.

Methods

Patients undergoing medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction between 2014 and 2019 by one of two fellowship‐trained orthopaedic surgeons were identified. Patients were included if they had two preoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) performed on the same knee within 7.5 months of each other prior to any surgical intervention and had an initial TT‐TG greater than 10 mm.

Results

After considering 251 patients for inclusion, 21 patients met the final inclusion criteria. The mean age was 14.5 ± 2.5 years and 61.9% were female. TT‐TG was initially noted to be 15.1 ± 1.8 mm. At mean time after sequential MRIs of 5.0 ± 1.9 months, TT‐TG was noted to be 16.7 ± 3.2 mm. The differences between initial and subsequent TT‐TG ranged from a 21.2% decrease to a 61.1% increase, with a mean difference of an 11.3% increase. Comparison between initial and subsequent TT‐TG values demonstrated a significant difference (p = 0.017). Change in tibiofemoral rotation ranged from −9.2° to 7.5°. When comparing the change in TT‐TG to change in tibiofemoral rotation, a significant correlation was found (p = 0.019).

Conclusion

Despite only a mean time between MRIs of 5 months, variations in TT‐TG ranged from a decrease of 21.2% to an increase of 61.1%. The significant relationship between the changes in TT‐TG and changes in tibiofemoral rotation between MRIs suggest that TT‐TG measurements may vary due to variations in tibiofemoral rotation at the time of individual MRIs.

Level of Evidence: Level IV.
Management after acute injury of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). Part 3: Recommendation on surgical treatment
Authors: Häner Martin , Stoffels Thomas , Guenther Daniel , Pfeiffer Thomas , Imhoff Andreas , Herbort Mirco , Stein Thomas , Schoepp Christian , Akoto Ralph , Höher Jürgen , Scheffler Sven , Stöhr Amelie , Mehl Julian , Niederer Daniel , Jung Tobias , Kittl Christoph , Eberle Christian , Vernacchia Cara , Ellermann Andree , Braun Philipp‐Johannes , Krause Matthias , Mengis Natalie , Müller Peter E. , Best Raymond , Achtnich Andrea , Petersen Wolf
Published: January 2024

Purpose

The aim of this consensus project was to give recommendations regarding surgical treatment of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injured patient.

Methods

For this consensus process, an expert, steering and rating group was formed. In an initial online meeting, the steering group, together with the expert group, formed various key topic complexes for which multiple questions were formulated. For each key topic, a structured literature search was performed by the steering group. The results of the literature review were sent to the rating group with the option to give anonymous comments until a final consensus voting was performed. Sufficient consensus was defined as 80% agreement.

Results

During this consensus process, 30 topics regarding the surgical management and technique of ACL reconstruction were identified. The literature search for each key question resulted in 30 final statements. Of these 30 final statements, all achieved consensus.

Conclusions

This consensus process has shown that surgical treatment of ACL injury is a complex process. Various surgical factors influence patient outcomes. The proposed treatment algorithm can be used as a decision aid for the surgeon.

Level of Evidence

Level V.
Two Simultaneous Rare Head and Neck Lipomas: Vallecular Lipoma and Giant Intermuscular Neck Lipoma
Authors: Ferraro Tatiana , Collazo Samuel A. , Malkin Benjamin D.
Published: January 2024

Lipomas are benign soft tissue neoplasms, involving the head and neck in roughly 15% of cases. We review a patient who presented with a palpable, anterior neck mass and progressive dysphagia, throat clearing, and dysphonia. He was found to have two simultaneous rare sites for head and neck lipomas: vallecular and intermuscular, anterior neck. He elected for surgical resection of both masses resulting in significant symptom improvement. Though originally referred for evaluation of an anterior neck mass, we underscore the importance of prompt investigation with reported laryngeal symptoms. We provide considerations for preoperative evaluation and surgical approaches. Laryngoscope, 134:3177–3180, 2024
Soil texture as a regulatory pathway for the enrichment of aggregate‐associated phosphorus
Authors: Wang Jie , Wei Yujie , Yang Bangge , Huang Yijing , Ren Shaocong , Cai Chongfa
Published: January 2024

Soil phosphorus (P) loss induced by erosion is an imminent threat to global food security, and as the linkage between erosion and P loss, aggregate is the unit for soil P storage. This study investigated the impacts of soil texture on aggregate‐associated P and its enrichment rate by using soils with four typical textures (silty clay, clay loam, silty clay loam, and loam) from croplands with the same field management in Danjiangkou (Hubei, China), the water source for the Middle Route of South‐to‐North Water Diversion. The initial P concentration in the range of 36.5 to 411.2 mg kg−1 was generated by laboratory incubation, and aggregate‐associated P was determined by the combination of wet sieving and molybdenum blue colorimetric method. Aggregate‐associated P was shown to be mainly concentrated in <0.05 mm aggregates (23.20–315.52 mg kg−1), accounting for 30.71%–35.28% of P concentration for a unit mass of soil. In addition, aggregate‐associated P and its enrichment rate generally decreased with the decline of clay content (333.76–63.25 mg kg−1 in 1–0.5 mm size aggregate) under the same aggregate size fraction, while they all exhibited a unimodal distribution (increasing first and then decreasing) with decreasing aggregate size. Moreover, clay content made the most contribution to the increase of aggregate‐associated P (R2 > 0.56) and its enrichment rate (R2 = 64.4%, p < 0.01), while CaCO3 showed a contrary trend (R2 > 0.56, and R2 = 49.1%, p < 0.01). Collectively, variations of aggregate‐associated P and ERi were mainly attributed to soil clay fraction‐regulated P adsorption.
Revealing The Degradation Mechanism of (Sr,Ca)AlSiN3:Eu2+ Phosphor Aged Under Thermal‐Moisture‐Sulfur Conditions: A Combined Experimental and Ab Initio Study
Authors: Guo Baotong , Wen Minzhen , Tang Hongyu , Lishik Sergey , Fan Xuejun , Zhang Guoqi , Fan Jiajie
Published: January 2024

MAlSiN3:Eu2+ (M = Ca, Sr) is commonly used in high‐power phosphor‐converted white‐light‐emitting diodes and laser diodes to promote their color‐rendering index. However, the wide application of this phosphor is limited by the degradation of its luminescent properties in high‐temperature, high‐humidity, and high‐sulfur‐content environment. Here, the degradation mechanism of the (Sr,Ca)AlSiN3:Eu2+ (SCASN) red phosphor under thermal‐moisture‐sulfur coupling conditions is investigated. Furthermore, by performing first‐principles calculations, the hydrolysis mechanism on an atomic scale is assessed. The adsorption energy (Eads) and charge transfer (ΔQ) results showed that H2O chemically adsorbed on the (0 1 0), (3 1 0), and (0 0 1) surfaces of the CaAlSiN3 (CASN) host lattice. The energy barrier for H2O dissociation is only 29.73 kJ mol−1 on the CASN (0 1 0) surface, indicating a high dissociation probability. The formation of NH3, Ca(OH)2, and CaAl2Si2O8 is confirmed by H+ tended to combine with surface N atoms, while OH− combined with the surface Al/Si or Ca atoms. Moreover, ab initio molecular dynamics simulations were performed to further understand the hydrolysis process. This work offers a guidance on the design and applications of luminescent materials in LED packages with higher reliability and stability requirements in harsh environment.
Chiral Meta‐Coder for Spin Switchable Electromagnetic Camouflage and Information Authentication
Authors: Li Zhenfei , Zhang Zhengping , Wu Xiangming , Song Kun , Zhai Shilong , Liu Yahong , Lou Jing , Wang Xiong , Zhao Xiaopeng , Zhu Weiren
Published: January 2024

Electromagnetic camouflage is crucial for concealing the physical identity of the object from external electromagnetic detection, whether in military operations or civilian contexts. However, addressing the pressing issue of seamlessly transitioning between camouflage and visualization capabilities is a significant challenge. By combining chiral meta‐atoms and irregular phase encoding method, a novel chiral meta‐coder is proposed for spin switchable electromagnetic camouflage and target authentication. Different from traditional conformal strategies, this meta‐coder achieves camouflage functionality by tightly arranging meta‐atoms around the target object and encoding suitable phase sequences to shape desired wavefront. Simultaneously, the target object can also be identified by modulating the helical state of the incident wave. As a proof of concept, a chiral meta‐coder operating in camouflaging “A” shaped target object is designed and experimentally demonstrated. When exposed to right circularly polarized waves, the meta‐atoms surrounding the object can adapt the wavefront to conceal target information. The camouflaged pattern exhibits diffuse scattering in the far field and three focal patterns around the near field. Conversely, these meta‐atoms transition into a wave‐absorbing configuration, facilitating the precise identification of target information. Such a strategy may find potential applications in data security, privacy, and communication.
THE CASE FOR BEING HUMAN AND LEADING HUMAN
Authors: Nash Jennifer
Published: January 2024

The author is a leadership expert/consultant/educator with considerable experience in coaching. “In my research on how leaders drive performance,” she writes, “I’ve found the key to successful leadership is becoming technically proficient in the human element. Prioritizing the human element means shifting focus away from profitability or processes to put people first.” These insights led to her creation of the “Human Leadership operating model.” She describes six elements of this framework, in the text and in Figure 1: hearing, understanding, mattering, appreciating, inspiring, and seeing. Within each she notes barriers, plus strategies for improvement. For instance: “Hearing someone isn’t just a matter of physically listening to their speaking sounds. It’s receiving their words with an open mind to understand their perspective.” And in the second element: “Understanding means gaining insight into others’ reality and viewing the world from their perspective. You listen to what they say and comprehend the meaning and essence of their words.” Third: “Everyone wants to feel that they are important and significant to others. It’s a universal human need to feel valued for our contributions to the world as well as for our humanity.” She concludes that “nurturing these six elemental needs improves work relationships and culture exponentially.”
A Periosteum‐Bioinspired Electrospun Janus Membrane with Antibacterial and Osteogenic Dual Function
Authors: Huang Chenlin , Chi Cheng , Zhao Yu , Liu Weiwei , Zhang Liqun , Shi Rui , Xue Jiajia
Published: January 2024

For a guided bone regeneration membrane, it is critical to possess osteogenic capability while inhibiting infection caused by bacteria. Inspired by the bilayer structure of the native periosteum, an electrospun Janus membrane with osteogenic and antibacterial dual‐function is fabricated for guided bone regeneration. Hydrophilic moxifloxacin (MXF) and hydrophobic icariin (ICA) are loaded in the nanofibers made of a mixture of polycaprolactone and gelatin at the top and bottom layers, respectively, leading to the opposing hydrophilic/hydrophobic properties of the bilayer Janus membranes. The as‐obtained Janus membrane exhibits excellent physical properties (tensile strength > 6.0 MPa) and robust biocompatibility, indicating the immense potential as a suitable replacement for the native periosteum. The membrane has a superior surface morphology and outstanding degradation performance in vitro. Besides, the rapid release of MXF and the slow release of ICA can meet the different needs of drug release rates. Only ≈30% ICA is released from the as‐obtained Janus membrane after 21 d while almost 80% MXF is released. Mimicking the bilayer structure of the native periosteum, the electrospun Janus membrane containing ICA and MXF exhibits excellent comprehensive properties, which provides a promising strategy for preparing multifunctional scaffolds for tissue engineering.
Is this really me? Investigating brand personality self‐congruity on consumer behavior in video‐based social media
Authors: Bargoni Augusto , Giachino Chiara , Gutuleac Rada , Streimikiene Dalia
Published: January 2024

This research aims to explore the role of brand personality self‐congruity (BPC) in affecting consumers' purchase behavior in a particular setting: video‐based social media (i.e., TikTok). Moreover, we test the moderating role of consumers' emotional attachment to the influencer and the mediating role of brand engagement in affecting purchase intention. Finally, we delve into the antecedents of influencer effectiveness and their relationship with consumers' actual purchases. To do so, we leverage two quantitative studies (n1 = 248; n3 = 247) and a qualitative one. Results from Study 1 indicate that the lower consumers perceive the gap between the brand personality and self‐image, the more they are inclined to engage with and purchase a brand. Moreover, we find that the emotional attachment to the influencer does not play a role in influencing purchase intention, positing that emotional attachment and BPC have different emotion dynamics with different purchase outcomes. Building on Study 1, Study 2 leverages a focus group to identify the antecedents of influencer effectiveness. Results highlight that a sense of indulgence appears in the minds of consumers when confronted with brands that have a lower congruity with their self. This sense of indulgence, in the case of low BPC, hinders the ability of the influencer to create an engagement between the brand and the consumer. Finally, Study 3 quantitatively tests the antecedents of influencer effectiveness under two conditions (entertaining vs. informative content type) highlighting the different influence of the antecedents on individuals with high (vs. low) BPC.
Kreislaufwirtschaft: Mindestens 20 Jahre warten
Authors: Bulmahn Maren
Published: January 2024

Eine vollständige Kreislaufwirtschaft bei den Batterierohstoffen Lithium, Cobalt und Nickel ist erst in mehreren Jahrzehnten möglich.
Chemie für die Quanteninformationstechnologie
Authors: Richert Sabine
Published: January 2024

FCI‐Dozentenpreisträgerin Sabine Richert untersucht, wie sich Spin‐Information in molekularen Materialien effizient erzeugen und übertragen lässt. Dies dient der Entwicklung und Optimierung zahlreicher Anwendungen, zum Beispiel in der Quantensensorik.
Standards und Normen: Testen, Gruppieren, kategorisieren
Authors: Pohl Barbara , Leipprand Amelie
Published: January 2024

Wer Normen gestaltet, beherrscht den Markt. Beispiele sind Kunststoffrezyklate, Frachtcontainer und analytische Methoden. Wie wichtig technische Regelwerke für den internationalen Handel sind.