bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Metabolomic Approaches in Assessing the Insecticidal Activity of the Extracts from Argemone ochroleuca Sweet (Papaveraceae) Against Three Diverse Crop Pests of Economic Importance
Authors: Reyes‐Luna Alfonso , Yáñez‐Barrientos Eunice , Alba‐Mares Xochitl N. , Luis Olivares‐Romero José , Josabad Alonso‐Castro Ángel , Cruz Cruz David , Villegas Gómez Clarisa
Published: January 2024

For years, crop protection from pest attack, has been dominated by the use of synthetic insecticides. However, many of them can cause severe environmental problems and human health. In this context, the use of plant extracts constitutes an alternative to avoid this kind of contaminants. In this work, we investigated the chemical constituents and insecticidal activity of different extracts of leaves and stems of Argemone ochroleuca Sweet (Papaveraceae) against three economically important pests Sitophilos zeamais (Coleoptera:Curculionidae), Galleria mellonella (Lepidoptera:Pyralidae) and Xyleborus ferrugineus (Coleoptera:Scolytidae). A GC‐MS analysis mostly revealed the presence benzylisoquinoline alkaloids such as allocryptopine, protopine, among others. For the insecticidal activity, after nine hours of contact, the methanolic leaves extract showed a 100 % of mortality, followed by the dichloromethane stems extract with up to 93 % of mortality. The results suggest that the benzylisoquinoline alkaloids are involved in the insecticidal activity through the octopaminergic system of the tested insects.
Molecular insights on intracellular Wnt/β‐catenin signaling in alcoholic liver disease
Authors: Shree Harini Karthik , Ezhilarasan Devaraj , Mani Uthirappan
Published: January 2024

Alcoholic liver disease (ALD) is one of the most common health problems worldwide, especially in developing countries caused by chronic consumption of alcohol on a daily basis. The ALD spectrum is initiated with the early stages of alcoholic fatty liver (steatosis), progressing to alcoholic steatohepatitis, followed by the later stages of fibrosis and in some cases, cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The Wnt/β‐catenin signaling required for healthy liver development, function, and regeneration is found to be aberrated in ALD, attributed to its progression. This review is to elucidate the association of Wnt/β‐catenin signaling with various stages of ALD progression. Alcohol causes downregulation of Wnt/β‐catenin signaling components and thereby suppressing the pathway. Reports have been published that aberrated Wnt/β‐catenin signaling, especially the absence of β‐catenin, results in decreased alcohol metabolism, causing steatosis followed by steatohepatitis via lipid accumulation, lipid peroxidation, liver injury, increased oxidative stress and apoptosis of hepatocytes, contributing to the advancement of ALD. Contrastingly, the progression of later stages of ALD like fibrosis and HCC depends on the increased activation of Wnt/β‐catenin signaling and its components. Existing studies reveal the varied expression of Wnt/β‐catenin signaling in ALD. However, the dual role of the Wnt/β‐catenin pathway in earlier and later stages of ALD is not clear. Therefore, studies on the Wnt/β‐catenin pathway and its components in various manifestations of ALD might provide insight in targeting the Wnt/β‐catenin pathway in ALD treatment.
Particulate bone grafting with a resorbable collagen membrane and horizontal alveolar ridge augmentation with tenting screws in dental implant placement: A case report
Authors: Mirdad Amani
Published: January 2024

Key Clinical Message

We used a mixture of particulate bone grafts (xenografts/allografts) with tenting screws to prevent membrane collapse and covered the graft with a resorbable collagen membrane to guide bone regeneration. This strategy can exclude the need for additional procedures, such as non‐resorbable membranes and major block grafting surgeries. Although the initial outcomes are promising, continuous follow‐up is required to examine the stability of the newly regenerated bone and the long‐term success of the implant.

This case demonstrates the use of particulate bone grafts covered with a resorbable collagen membrane and supported by tenting screws to correct horizontal alveolar ridge defects. A man in his 40s presented with missing maxillary anterior central and lateral incisors and required a fixed dental prosthesis. One year before, #12, #11, #21, and #22 had been extracted. The area showed horizontal and slight vertical bone loss. We used a mixture of particulate bone grafts (xenografts and allografts) with tenting screws to prevent membrane collapse and covered the graft with a resorbable collagen membrane to guide bone regeneration. After 6 months, complete bone regeneration was achieved, and the dental implants were submerged in the bone. After another 6 months, the patient was administered with a fixed dental prosthesis. This method can be used to correct horizontal alveolar ridge defects and achieve esthetic restoration without the need for more extensive procedures.
Room Temperature Amide Hydrolysis Enabled by TiO2 (001) Surface
Authors: Wang Quan , Sun Guohan , Xiao Zhanping , Peng Yung‐Kang
Published: January 2024

Amides are crucial components of biomolecules and are extensively used in polymer, pharmaceutical, and agrochemical production. Their direct hydrolysis offers great potential for exploring protein structures and producing valuable carboxylic acids in biological and industrial applications. Nevertheless, activating the resonance‐stabilized C−N bond in amides poses a formidable challenge. Extensive research over the past decades has reported various transition metal‐based complexes and solid catalysts that catalyze this reaction. These catalysts possess Lewis acid (LA) sites and exhibit enhanced activity when further combined with Brönsted acid (BA) sites. In this study, we present the first demonstration of amide hydrolysis on TiO2, a rock‐forming material, offering valuable insights into its surface activity. By using acetamide as the model compound, we observed that the thermodynamically stable (101) surface of TiO2 remained inert up to 95 °C. Surprisingly, the high‐energy (001) surface of TiO2 activated amide hydrolysis at a temperature as low as 25 °C. Contrary to previous reports, the fluorine‐modified (001) surface with additional BA sites required temperatures above 70 °C likely due to hydrogen bond stabilization by nearby fluorine atoms. These findings provide guidance for the development of cost‐effective catalysts with improved activity.
Comparative Proton Coupled Electron Transfer at Glassy Carbon and Boron‐Doped Diamond Electrodes
Authors: Neill Shane P. O. , Martínez‐Aviñó Adrià , Keene Charlie , Hassan Sammi , Houston Catriona , Denuga Shekemi , Farrell Emer B. , Gil‐Ramírez Guzmán , Johnson Robert P.
Published: January 2024

The surface modification of carbon electrodes is an area of great interest in both fundamental and applied electrochemistry. Herein we demonstrate a reliable route for the modification of sp3 boron‐doped diamond electrodes through a diazonium reduction and subsequent solid phase synthesis to produce a stable, immobilised layer of surface‐bound anthraquinone. The electron transfer kinetics, surface coverage, and pKa of the immobilised anthraquinone were investigated and compared to those of anthraquinone immobilised via an identical synthetic route onto a glassy carbon sp2 interface. The pKa of anthraquinone was found to be 9.1 on glassy carbon but 6.6 on boron‐doped diamond. Differences in pKa were observed despite the use of identical surface modification strategies and the achievement of comparable surface densities for both types of electrode, and are attributed to the differing dielectric properties of the surface‐modified layers atop either an sp2 or sp3 interface. These results highlight how the underlying substrate can greatly influence the fundamental chemical and electrochemical properties of immobilised molecules, as well as the need for caution when applying well‐established sp2 solid phase synthesis methodologies to sp3 substrates.
Association of travel time, patient characteristics, and hospital quality with patient mobility for breast cancer surgery: A national population‐based study
Authors: Aggarwal Ajay , Han Lu , Lewis Daniel , Costigan Jeanette , Hubbard Alison , Taylor Joanne , Rigg Anne , Purushotham Arnie , van der Meulen Jan
Published: January 2024

Background

This national study investigated hospital quality and patient factors associated with treatment location for breast cancer surgery.

Methods

By using linked administrative data sets from the English National Health Service, the authors identified all women diagnosed between January 2, 2016, and December 31, 2018, who underwent breast‐conserving surgery (BCS) or a mastectomy with or without immediate breast reconstruction. The extent to which patients bypassed their nearest hospital was investigated using a geographic information system (ArcGIS). Conditional logistic regressions were used to estimate the impact of travel time, hospital quality, and patient characteristics.

Results

22,622 Of 69,153 patients undergoing BCS, 22,622 (32.7%) bypassed their nearest hospital; and, of 23,536 patients undergoing mastectomy, 7179 (30.5%) bypassed their nearest hospital. Women who were younger, without comorbidities, or from rural areas were more likely to travel to more distant hospitals (p < .05). Patients undergoing BCS (odds ratio [OR], 1.85; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.36–2.50) or mastectomy (OR, 1.52; 95% CI, 1.14–2.02) were more likely to be treated at specialist breast reconstruction centers despite not undergoing the procedure. Patients receiving mastectomy and immediate breast reconstruction were more likely to travel to hospitals employing surgeons who had a media reputation (OR, 2.41; 95% CI, 1.28–4.52). Patients undergoing BCS were less likely to travel to hospitals with shorter surgical waiting times (OR, 0.65; 95% CI, 0.46–0.92). The authors did not observe a significant impact for research activity, hospital quality rating, breast re‐excision rates, or the status as a multidisciplinary cancer center.

Conclusions

Patient choice policies may drive inequalities in the health care system without improving patient outcomes.
Accounting for nature contributions to people in corporate sustainability: The case of a waste management company in Portugal
Authors: Pinto Tania , Machado Telmo , Nicolau Diana , Oliveira Nuno Gaspar , Vaz Ana Sofia
Published: January 2024

Nature's contributions to people (NCP) are contributions of natural capital to people's quality of life, being at the center of political and societal concern. There is an increasing recognition of businesses' responsibility toward conservation and responsible use of natural capital. In this exploratory study, we identified gains of corporate investments on natural capital, focusing on LIPOR, a waste management company that closed and converted a dumpsite into a multifunctional Urban Green Space. We gathered and reviewed available data and concluded that there are €113,020,478 in NCP benefits, from €7,760,032 business investments by LIPOR, roughly representing a positive cost–benefit ratio of 14, over 2 decades. Results suggest that well‐targeted business investments in natural capital can provide high rates of return associated with people's benefits. Our case study contributes to fulfilling a gap in business literature by deliberately linking rates of investment on natural capital with the valuation of NCP benefits.
Unveiling the value of institutional pressure in socially sustainable supply chain management: The role of top management support for social initiatives and organisational culture
Authors: Zhou Min , Long Xianyi , Govindan Kannan
Published: January 2024

This study aims to explore the factors that motivate firms to adopt socially sustainable supply chain management (socially SSCM) practices. To address this question, we seek to investigate the effect of institutional pressure on firms' socially SSCM (i.e., assessment and collaboration) and the mediating role of top management support (TMS) for social initiatives. We also argue that organisational culture, which comprises flexibility and control orientation, influences the process from institutional pressures to TMS for social initiatives. Using survey data from 248 buyer–supplier dyads in China, we find that institutional pressure positively influences companies to enhance socially SSCM, including assessment and collaboration practices. Moreover, TMS for social initiatives plays mediating role in the relationship between institutional pressure and socially SSCM. Moreover, flexibility‐orientated culture weakens the influence of institutional pressure on TMS for social initiatives, whereas the effect of institutional pressure on TMS for social initiatives intensifies as control‐orientated culture increases. This study contributes to the literature by stressing the social dimension of SSCM and linking institutional and organisational factors involved in social ethics issues to understand buying firms' tendency to achieve socially SSCM.
A checklist of European butterfly larval foodplants
Authors: Clarke Harry E.
Published: January 2024

Butterflies are charismatic insects and have been well studied, particularly in Europe. They are disproportionately used in generating and testing hypotheses; on everything from general evolutionary processes, such as speciation or host association dynamics; to conservation‐related studies, such as climate change or habitat loss. Accurate lists of the larval foodplants for European butterflies are not readily available. Mistakes are propagated and information cannot be checked for accuracy. The level of evidence is unknown, and how usage varies between countries is poorly understood. The study consulted 1119 references to produce 19,488 records of larval foodplants for European butterflies. This resulted in 5589 larval host plant records for 464 European butterfly species, with multiple references, enabling information to be checked. Information was unavailable for 59 species. The level of evidence for each relationship shows the current state of knowledge. Significant issues were identified for 3.9% of records extracted from references due to mistakes, ambiguous or unknown plant names, distribution issues, resulting in information being lost. Plants with questionable distributions suggest either mis‐identification or species that have been split. Little is known about plant usage in Eastern Europe. The larval foodplants of many monophagous and Satyrinae butterflies are poorly studied. Only 63% of threatened 2010 Red Listed butterflies have reliable host plant records. The study has provided ecologists with a valuable resource, of a more accurate checklist of the larval foodplants for each European country. Why plant usage varies over a butterfly's distribution opens up some interesting research questions.
Anxiety, history of childhood adversity, and experiencing chronic pain in adulthood: A systematic literature review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Dalechek Danielle E. , Caes Line , McIntosh Gwenne , Whittaker Anna C.
Published: January 2024

Background

When considering factors that may impact chronic pain experiences in adulthood, adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and anxiety should be considered. The literature on the associations between these 3 variables remains unclear.

Objective

To summarize the existing literature on the relationship between ACEs and anxiety on chronic pain experience in adults, and examine the association between ACEs and anxiety.

Methods

A systematic literature review (SLR) and meta‐analysis was used to examine adults (≥18) with a reported history of ACEs, self‐reported and/or diagnosed anxiety, and chronic pain. The SLR included quality appraisal according to the Joanna Briggs Institute tool.

Results

The narrative summary indicated a significant association between ACEs, anxiety, and chronic pain experiences in adults. Of 52 selected studies, 79% reported a moderate–strong association. For ACE prevalence, the majority reported experiencing sexual abuse (50% [SD 16.01]), followed by physical abuse (46% [SD 20.7]). Other ACEs included emotional abuse (33% [SD 17.17]), emotional neglect (25% [SD 21.02]), and physical neglect (23% [SD 22.44]). Meta‐analyses showed moderate associations between anxiety and chronic pain (r = 0.30; 95% CI = [0.14, 0.45], p < 0.01) and between ACEs and anxiety (r = 0.26; 95% CI = [0.15, 0.36], p < 0.01), and that participants who experienced ACEs are around twice as likely to present chronic pain during adulthood (OR = 1.99; 95% CI = [1.53, 2.60], p < 0.01).

Conclusion

The results of the SLR and meta‐analysis indicated that ACEs and anxiety influence chronic pain experience in adults. Given the relationship between ACEs and anxiety, there would be value in exploring this as a potential mediator in future studies.

Significance

There was an unmet need to summarize the existing literature on the relationship between ACEs and anxiety on chronic pain experience in adults and the association between ACEs and anxiety. The results of this systematic review and meta‐analysis indicated that both ACEs and anxiety influenced chronic pain experience in adults and helped to inform the diverse literature on these potential relationships to date.
Psychological profiles and prescription opioid misuse, craving, and withdrawal in people with chronic pain
Authors: Esteve R. , Barrado‐Moreno V. , Ramírez‐Maestre C. , Serrano‐Ibáñez E. R. , de la Vega R. , Ruiz‐Párraga G. T. , Sainero‐Tirado G. , Fernández Baena M. , Jensen M. , López‐Martínez A. E.
Published: January 2024

Background

The negative consequences of prescription opioid misuse and opioid use disorder make it relevant to identify factors associated with this problem in individuals with chronic pain. This cross‐sectional study aimed at identifying subgroups of people with chronic pain based on their psychological profiles, prescription opioid misuse, craving, and withdrawal.

Methods

The sample comprised 185 individuals with chronic pain. We performed hierarchical cluster analysis on impulsivity, anxiety sensitivity, pain acceptance, pain intensity, opioid misuse, craving, and withdrawal.

Results

The four‐cluster solution was the optimal one. Misuse, craving, and anxiety sensitivity were higher among people in the Severe‐problems cluster than among people in the other three clusters. Withdrawal was the highest in the High‐withdrawal cluster. Impulsivity was higher among people in the Severe‐problems and High‐withdrawal clusters than those in the Moderate‐problems and Mild‐problems clusters. Pain acceptance was higher among people in the Mild‐problems cluster than among people in the other three clusters. Anxiety sensitivity and misuse were higher among people in the Moderate‐problems cluster than among people in the Mild‐problems cluster.

Conclusions

These results support that impulsivity, anxiety sensitivity, and pain acceptance are useful constructs to identify subgroups of people with chronic pain according to their level of prescription opioid misuse, craving, and withdrawal. The results of this study may help in selecting the early intervention most suitable for each of the identified profiles.

Significance

The psychological profile of individuals with chronic pain, prescription opioid misuse, craving, and withdrawal is characterized by fearing anxiety‐related symptoms due to the catastrophic interpretation of such symptoms and reacting impulsively to negative moods. In contrast, participants with high pain acceptance had less prescription opioid misuse, craving, and withdrawal. The profiles identified in this study could help clinicians select targets for intervention among profiles with similar needs and facilitate early interventions to prevent opioid misuse onset or aggravation.
Fast Self‐Charging Flexible Device Based on Metal–Air Redox Reaction under Normal Humidity
Authors: Gao Dan , Zhang Zhiyu , Luo Zhiling , Chen Bingxing , Liu Changhong
Published: January 2024

Nowadays, self‐charging devices using clean energy have raised the potential of portable and wearable power generators. Herein, a novel moisture‐induced self‐powered device based on metal–air redox reaction has been designed which can work under normal humidity conditions. Through bridging two asymmetric electrodes including a carbon nanotube/polyaniline composite electrode and a metal electrode by filter paper with CaCl2, the 1D planar device can be simply fabricated. A single device can provide an open‐circuit voltage of over 1.3 V under normal humidity (40%) within 5 min (the maximum can be up to 1.42 V at 80% humidity) and the harvesting energy can be stored effectively. The device possesses great circularity and stability which can maintain steady and consistent output over at least 6 months. Due to the microelectrolyte, this device can prevent harmful leakage or deformation of the electrolyte completely. What is more, the device shows good extendibility. Three single devices in series using common electrodes can light up two light‐emitting diodes. Besides its application potential in self‐powered portable and wearable electronics, this device can provide a reference for utilization in medical devices due to the response signals under breath with different frequencies.
Flag Fluttering‐Triggered Piezoelectric Energy Harvester at Low Wind Speed Conditions
Authors: Özkan Musa , Erkan Onur , Basaran Sinan
Published: January 2024

Flow‐induced vibrations are common occurrences in various fluid–solid interaction systems existing in nature. One way to transform this vibrational mechanical energy into a usable form is through energy harvesters. This study examines the performance of a piezoelectric energy harvester, where mechanical oscillations result from the fluttering flags made of various fabrics. Flags, made of commonly encountered fabrics, are attached to a cantilever beam inside a wind tunnel with a 30 × 30 cm test section, allowing the airflow to be adjusted between 0 and 10 m s−1. The alpaca flag, with dimensions corresponding to an aspect ratio of 2, can produce meaningful electricity even at a wind speed as low as ≈3.8 m s−1. As the wind speed increases, the fluttering frequency of this flag configuration becomes 10.9 Hz at a wind speed of 5 m s−1, coinciding with the natural frequency of the first mode shape. In this specific arrangement, the structural deformation of the piezoelectric patch on the beam surface is maximized, allowing the harvester system to produce a root mean square voltage of 5 V with a relatively high maximum power of 98 μW.
Addressing the distributional consequences of spillovers in health economic evaluation: A prioritarian approach
Authors: Henry Edward , Cullinan John
Published: January 2024

Health spillovers arise when an individual's serious illness affects those close to them emotionally, psychologically, and/or physically. As a result, healthcare interventions that improve the lives of patients may also confer wider health benefits. However, contrary to widespread calls for health spillovers to be included in health economic evaluation, others have argued this could have adverse distributional consequences and equity implications. This paper presents a novel approach to spillover inclusion in health economic evaluation using a ‘prioritarian transformation’ of health gains that allows these equity concerns to be addressed. Affording greater weight to the incremental change in patient outcomes when incorporating carer/family health spillovers into resource allocation decisions, the method provides a feasible means of moderating the distributional impact of spillover inclusion. It also introduces a normative, theoretical perspective to a largely empirical extant literature and, as such, its axiomatic basis is examined. Finally, an illustrative example of the approach is presented to demonstrate its application.
Why not work with anthropomorphic collaborative robots? The mediation effect of perceived intelligence and the moderation effect of self‐efficacy
Authors: Liao Shilong , Lin Long , Chen Qin , Pei Hairun
Published: January 2024

Collaborative robots (cobots) are an essential component of intelligent manufacturing. However, employees working alongside them have negative attitudes toward cobots that assist humans' work. To address this industrial human–robot interaction problem, this study adopted the idea of cognitive ergonomics research, invited 323 participants, and conducted an empirical study using an experimental vignette methodology. This study found that (1) perceived intelligence plays a mediating role in the relationship between cobots anthropomorphism and negative attitudes toward cobots; (2) perceived intelligence and perceived threat play a serial mediating role in the relationship between cobots anthropomorphism and negative attitudes toward cobots; (3) robot use self‐efficacy plays a moderating role in the relationship between perceived threat and negative attitudes toward cobots. The results provide a mechanistic explanation and related measures to eliminate the negative attitudes toward cobots.
Grounding understanding of the home numeracy environment: Within‐group variation in Latine families
Authors: Cosso Jimena , Campos Oaxaca Gala , Purpura David J.
Published: January 2024

The home numeracy environment is an essential construct that helps explain children's numeracy skills. However, this field has been developed mostly focusing on monolingual English‐speaking families, and cultural differences that contextualize the home environment have not been considered. This study describes the home numeracy environment of Latine families by (1) identifying the more and less common numeracy activities in the home of Latine families; (2) exploring differences, such as family members involved in the activities and generation in the United States; and (3) examining the association between activities and math anxiety and beliefs. Participants were 341 caregiver‐child dyads (M age = 2.9 years, SD = 0.7 months). We found that the less common numeracy activities in the home of Latine families are items commonly used in the literature to measure numeracy home environment. In addition, the role of family members varies across generations. This study provides a foundation for understanding the home numeracy environment of Latine families.
Successful multidisciplinary team management of placenta accreta spectrum disorder: A referral center model in a middle‐income country
Authors: Muadtongon Kan , Rattanaburi Athithan , Ajimakul Thiti , Suphasynth Yuthasak , Jiamset Ingporn , Nantamongkolkul Kulisara , Suntharasaj Thitima , Suwanrath Chitkasaem , Pruksanusak Ninlapa , Petpichetchian Chusana , Suksai Manaphat , Chainarong Natthicha , Sawaddisan Rapphon , Pranpanus Savitree
Published: January 2024

Objective

The aim of the study was to evaluate the outcomes of placenta accreta spectrum (PAS) disorder managed by a multidisciplinary care team (MCT) compared with a conventional care team (CCT) in a PAS referral center in Thailand.

Methods

This retrospective single‐center cohort study analyzed PAS management outcomes in the PSU PAS Center between January 2010 and December 2022. The incidence of hemorrhage ≥3500 mL and the composite maternal and neonatal outcomes of PAS were compared before and after the introduction of an MCT in 2016.

Results

Of 227 PAS cases, 219 (96.5%) had pathological confirmation. There were 52 (22.9%) cases of placenta accreta, 119 (52.4%) cases of placenta increta, and 56 (24.7%) cases of placenta percreta. The incidence of estimated blood loss (EBL) ≥3500 mL decreased from 61.8% to 34.3% (P < 0.001) after the establishment of the MCT. The median EBL decreased from 4000 (IQR: 2600,7250) mL to 2250 (1300, 4750) mL (P < 0.001). EBL reduction was statistically significant in the accreta and increta groups (P < 0.001). Red blood cell transfusions decreased from five (3, 9) to two (1, 6) units (P < 0.001) per patient. The length of maternal hospital stays and ICU admissions were statistically shorter when PAS was managed by an MCT (P < 0.001). The length of newborn hospital and ICU stays decreased significantly (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

The incidence of massive postpartum hemorrhage and a composite of maternal and neonatal morbidities in pregnant women with PAS disorder improved significantly after the establishment of an MCT to manage PAS in a middle‐income country setting.
Exploring the knowledge and attitudes of college‐educated Hispanics toward the transgender community in Puerto Rico
Authors: Ortiz‐Ramos Kevin J. , Ramírez‐Oliver Ariadna , Cárdenas‐Suárez Natalia , García‐Rivera Enid J. , Romaguera Josefina
Published: January 2024

Objective

This study aimed to assess the knowledge and attitudes of a sample of Hispanics in Puerto Rico (PR) toward the transgender community.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study addressing Hispanics, aged 21 years or older who lived in PR, was performed from March to September 2021. Participants were invited through online advertisement shared on social media pages. Data were collected via SurveyMonkey and analyzed with Stata 17. Descriptive statistics were employed to summarize findings.

Results

A total of 404 participants were sampled. Most were female, 278 (68.8%), had completed at least a bachelor's degree, 292 (72.2%), and referred exposure to trans‐related topics during education, 237 (58.7%). Most correctly defined the terms sex, 257 (63.6%), sexual orientation, 334 (82.7%) and transgenderism, 297 (73.5%). The majority also agreed that transgender individuals should be able to change their name, 353 (93.6%) and undergo gender‐affirming procedures, 335 (88.9%). Most also believed trans individuals were a valuable part of society, 339 (89.9%) and should be allowed free gender expression, 358 (95.0%).

Conclusions

PR is characterized by a patriarchal, religious, and conservative culture which could promote a negative attitude toward transgender people. Our findings challenged such assumption. The level of knowledge and positive attitude toward trans individuals identified in this study could counteract the existing violence and stigma affecting this community in PR.
Electrospun nylon 6/hyaluronic acid/chitosan bioactive nanofibrous composite as a potential antibacterial wound dressing
Authors: Foroozandeh Amin , Shakiba Mohamadreza , Zamani Amirhosein , Tajiki Alireza , Sheikhi Mehdi , Pourmadadi Mehrab , Pahnavar Zohreh , Rahmani Erfan , Aghababaei Nafiseh , Amoli Hossein Salar , Abdouss Majid
Published: January 2024

Hyaluronic acid (HA) and chitosan (CS), as natural biomaterials, display excellent biocompatibility and stimulate the growth and proliferation of fibroblasts. Furthermore, nylon 6 (N6) is a low‐cost polymer with good compatibility with human tissues and high mechanical stability. In this study, HA and CS were applied to modify N6 nanofibrous mat (N6/HA/CS) for potential wound dressing. N6/HA/CS nanofibrous composite mats were developed using a simple one‐step electrospinning technique at different CS concentrations of 1, 2, and 3 wt%. The results demonstrated that incorporating HA and CS into N6 resulted in increased hydrophilicity, as well as favorable physical and mechanical properties. In addition, the minimum inhibitory concentration and (MIC) optical density techniques were used to determine the antibacterial properties of N6/HA/CS nanofibrous composite mats, and the results demonstrated that the composites could markedly inhibit the growth of Gram‐positive bacteria Staphylococcus aureus and Gram‐negative bacteria Escherichia coli. Because of its superior mechanical properties, substantial antimicrobial effects, and hydrophilic surface, N6/HA/CS at 2 wt% of CS (N6/HA/CS2) was chosen as the most suitable nanofibrous mat. The swelling, porosity, gel content, and in vitro degradation studies imply that N6/HA/CS2 nanofibrous composite mat has proper moisture retention and biodegradability. Furthermore, the N6/HA/CS2 nanofibrous composite mat was discovered to be nontoxic to L929 fibroblast cells and to even improve cell proliferation. Based on the findings, this research offers a simple and rapid method for creating material that could be utilized as prospective wound dressings in clinical environments.
Safety and efficacy of peripheral blood stem cells collection in healthy children and pediatric patients with thalassemia major weighing 20 kg or less
Authors: Chen Libai , Wen Jianyun , Xu Xiaoxiao , Du Jing , Ruan Yongsheng , Feng Xiaoqin , Li Juan , He Yuelin , Wu Xuedong
Published: January 2024

Background

Peripheral blood stem cell (PBSC) collection in children poses challenges due to their small size, low body weight (BW), and unique pediatric physiology, especially among children weighing 20 kg (kg) or less.

Methods

PBSC collection data of both healthy children and patients with thalassemia major (TM) weighing 20 kg or less between January 2013 and December 2020 were reviewed. Moreover, PBSCs characteristics along with various aspects of efficiency and safety between healthy donors and patients with TM were compared.

Results

A total of 262 PBSC procedures were performed on 255 children. Of these, 91 procedures were carried out on 85 allogeneic healthy donors, and 171 auto‐backup collections were performed on 170 patients with TM to ensure PBSC availability and prevent transplantation failure. A minimum pre‐apheresis hemoglobin (HGB) level of 60 g/L was discovered to be safe and feasible in patients with TM. The median CD34+ cell dose in the PBSC product during the initial apheresis procedure was higher in healthy donors compared to patients with TM (7.29 ± 5.28 × 106 cells/kg vs5.88 ± 4.23 × 106 cells/kg, P = .043). The total CD34+ cells/kg recipient weight exhibited a positive correlation with pre‐apheresis monocyte counts, but a negative correlation with donor weight. Apheresis significantly reduced hematocrit and platelet counts in the allogeneic group compared to the autologous group. Patients with TM experienced a higher occurrence of bone pain related to granulocyte colony‐stimulating factor treatment. Notably, no serious complications related to PBSCs mobilization, central venous catheter placement, or the apheresis procedure were observed in either group.

Conclusions

PBSCs collection was both safe and effective in healthy children and pediatric patients with TM weighing 20 kg or less.
Relevance of pyroptosis‐associated genes in nasopharyngeal carcinoma diagnosis and subtype classification
Authors: Wang Yan , Zou Yuxia , Chen Xianghui , Wang Xiaoyan , Zheng Hao , Ye Qing
Published: January 2024

Background

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is a highly aggressive and metastatic malignancy originating in the nasopharyngeal tissue. Pyroptosis is a relatively newly discovered, regulated form of necrotic cell death induced by inflammatory caspases that is associated with a variety of diseases. However, the role and mechanism of pyroptosis in NPC are not fully understood.

Methods

We analyzed the differential expression of pyroptosis‐related genes (PRGs) between patients with and without NPC from the GSE53819 and GSE64634 datasets of the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. We mapped receptor operating characteristic profiles for these key PRGs to assess the accuracy of the genes for disease diagnosis and prediction of patient prognosis. In addition, we constructed a nomogram based on these key PRGs and carried out a decision curve analysis. The NPC patients were classified into different pyroptosis gene clusters by the consensus clustering method based on key PRGs, whereas the expression profiles of the key PRGs were analyzed by applying principal component analysis. We also analyzed the differences in key PRGs, immune cell infiltration and NPC‐related genes between the clusters. Finally, we performed differential expression analysis for pyroptosis clusters and obtained differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and performed Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment analyses.

Results

We obtained 14 differentially expressed PRGs from GEO database. Based on these 14 differentially expressed PRGs, we applied least absolute shrinkage and selection operator analysis and the random forest algorithm to obtain four key PRGs (CHMP7, IL1A, TP63 and GSDMB). We completely distinguished the NPC patients into two pyroptosis gene clusters (pyroptosis clusters A and B) based on four key PRGs. Furthermore, we determined the immune cell abundance of each NPC sample, estimated the association between the four PRGs and immune cells, and determined the difference in immune cell infiltration between the two pyroptosis gene clusters. Finally, we obtained and functional enrichment analyses 259 DEGs by differential expression analysis for both pyroptosis clusters.

Conclusions

PRGs are critical in the development of NPC, and our research on the pyroptosis gene cluster may help direct future NPC therapeutic approaches.
Cu‐catalyzed dehydrogenative CO arylation for the synthesis of 6‐methyl benzofuro[3,2‐c] quinoline derivatives
Authors: Makwana Bhavik S. , Morja Mayur I. , Chauhan Prakashsingh M. , Chikhalia Kishor H.
Published: January 2024

A novel strategy for the synthesis of 6‐methyl benzofuro[3,2‐c] quinoline derivatives via copper‐catalyzed dehydrogenative CO arylation has been presented. Optimization studies have been carried out by varying various catalysts, bases, solvents, and other physical parameters. Keeping use of this dehydrogenative cross‐coupling CO arylation reaction, a variety of bioactive building blocks like fused benzofuro quinoline heterocycles were smoothly assembled in moderate to higher yields.
Late MIS5a in the southern North Sea: new chronostratigraphic insights from the Brown Bank Formation
Authors: Waajen Irene M. , Busschers Freek S. , Donders Timme H. , Van Heteren Sytze , Plets Ruth , Wallinga Jakob , Hennekam Rick , Reichart Gert‐Jan , Kinnaird Tim , Wagner‐Cremer Friederike
Published: January 2024

The Brown Bank Formation (BB Fm) is a clay‐rich sedimentary unit that is distributed over a large area in the southern North Sea. It is easily recognisable in 2D acoustic reflection profiles, forming sets of subparallel high‐amplitude reflections. Previous studies have provided only fragmentary information on the facies, and a variety of interpretations on the depositional environment and age of the BB Fm. In this study we combine high‐resolution 2D acoustic reflection profiles and multiproxy sedimentological, geochemical and geochronological analyses of three vibrocores, to provide a detailed description and a new age assessment for the BB Fm at its type locality, adjacent to the Brown Bank ridge. At the study site, the BB Fm shows morphologically well‐preserved submarine sand dunes, deposited in a high‐energy shelf setting, overlain by organic‐rich silty clays that were deposited under lower‐energy conditions in an increasingly compartmentalised marginal marine environment. Elevated terrestrial organic input shows that the Rhine–Meuse delta was situated relatively close‐by. Luminescence ages indicate that the sediments of the BB Fm in our cores were deposited during the Weichselian Odderade interstadial (MIS5a, ca. 80 ka) and earliest parts of the Early Pleniglacial (MIS4, ca. 70 ka), which is later than previously reported in the literature.
Morphologic Analysis of the Scala Tympani Using Synchrotron: Implications for Cochlear Implantation
Authors: Micuda Ashley , Li Hao , Rask‐Andersen Helge , Ladak Hanif M. , Agrawal Sumit K.
Published: January 2024

Objectives

To use synchrotron radiation phase‐contrast imaging (SR‐PCI) to visualize and measure the morphology of the entire cochlear scala tympani (ST) and assess cochlear implant (CI) electrode trajectories.

Methods

SR‐PCI images were used to obtain geometric measurements of the cochlear scalar diameter and area at 5‐degree increments in 35 unimplanted and three implanted fixed human cadaveric cochleae.

Results

The cross‐sectional diameter and area of the cochlea were found to decrease from the base to the apex. This study represents a wide variability in cochlear morphology and suggests that even in the smallest cochlea, the ST can accommodate a 0.4 mm diameter electrode up to 720°. Additionally, all lateral wall array trajectories were within the anatomically accommodating insertion zone.

Conclusion

This is the first study to use SR‐PCI to visualize and quantify the entire ST morphology, from the round window to the apical tip, and assess the post‐operative trajectory of electrodes. These high‐resolution anatomical measurements can be used to inform the angular insertion depth that can be accommodated in CI patients, accounting for anatomical variability.

Level of evidence

N/A. Laryngoscope, 134:2889–2897, 2024
Morphological characteristics and geometric prediction model of pits in complex corrosion environment
Authors: Chen Yajun , Ma Tianyi , Song Xianjie , Sui Zehuan , Song Xiaoxiao , Zhang XueYang
Published: January 2024

For aircraft serving in coastal environments, the aluminum alloy skin is exposed to high temperature, humidity, and salt environment for a long time. Pitting and exfoliation will affect its normal service life. In this article, static salt spray experiments and electrochemical tests were carried out on 2198‐T8 Al–Li alloy in nine different corrosive environments. The effects of salt concentration, temperature, and humidity on the corrosion behavior were analyzed and compared. The relationship between corrosion environment parameters and pits was established. The results show that, under the same corrosion environment, the length, width, and depth of the pits all follow the log‐normal distribution; compared with the salt concentration and humidity, the increase in temperature has the most obvious promotion on the corrosion rate. Based on the frequency statistics of pit size and electrochemical test results, the pit morphology was simplified to a semiellipsoid geometric model, and the pit size in different corrosive environments was predicted. The predicted size data all fall within the 1.5‐fold dispersion region.
Doctor credentialing process in Mass. won't include invasive MH questions
Authors: Enos Gary
Published: January 2024

Massachusetts stands at the leading edge of a national trend in which many health provider organizations and licensing boards are no longer asking physicians questions about past mental illness or drug use. The Massachusetts Health & Hospital Association (MHA) last month announced that all hospitals, health systems and local health plans in the state have committed to ridding their physician credentialing processes of stigmatizing questions.
Report sheds light on therapy pursuits of millennials, Gen Zers
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: January 2024

New survey data has found that more than half of millennials and Gen Zers have gone to therapy or are currently going to therapy, according to results released by Thriving Center of Psychology on Dec. 19, 2023. According to the survey, 39% of respondents said they plan to go to therapy in 2024.
Demonstration of magnetic resonance Z‐spectral imaging for fatty acid characterization of bone marrow at 3 T
Authors: Kuang Junfeng , Qi Yulong , Wu Qiting , Cheng Guanxun , Wu Yin
Published: January 2024

Magnetic resonance Z‐spectral imaging (ZSI) has emerged as a new approach to measure fat fraction (FF). However, its feasibility for fat spectral imaging remains to be elucidated. In this study, a single‐slice ZSI sequence dedicated to fat spectral imaging was designed, and its capability for fatty acid characterization was investigated on peanut oil samples, a multiple‐vial fat‐water phantom with varied oil volumes, and vertebral body marrow in healthy volunteers and osteoporosis patients at 3 T. The peanut oil spectrum was also recorded with a 400‐MHz NMR spectrometer. A Gaussian–Lorentzian sum model was used to resolve water and six fat signals of the pure oil sample or four fat signals of the fat‐water phantom or vertebral bone marrow from Z spectra. Fat peak amplitudes were normalized to the total peak amplitude of water and all fat signals. Normalized fat peak amplitudes and FF were quantified and compared among vials of the fat‐water phantom or between healthy volunteers and osteoporosis patients. An unpaired student's t‐test and Pearson's correlation were conducted, with p less than 0.05 considered statistically significant. The results showed that the peanut oil spectra measured with the ZSI technique were in line with respective NMR spectra, with amplitudes of the six fat signal peaks significantly correlated between the two methods (y = x + 0.001, r = 0.996, p < 0.001 under a repetition time of 1.6 s; and y = 1.026x ‐ 0.003, r = 0.996, p < 0.001 under a repetition time of 3.1 s). Moreover, ZSI‐measured FF exhibited a significant correlation with prepared oil volumes (y = 0.876x + 1.290, r = 0.996, p < 0.001). The osteoporosis patients showed significantly higher normalized fat peak amplitudes and FF in the L4 vertebral body marrow than the healthy volunteers (all p < 0.01). In summary, the designed ZSI sequence is feasible for fatty acid characterization, and has the potential to facilitate the diagnosis and evaluation of diseases associated with fat alterations at 3 T.
Secure state estimation via robust optimization for nonlinear cyber‐physical systems
Authors: Chen Lexin , Li Yongming , Tong Shaocheng
Published: January 2024

This article proposes secure state estimation for cyber‐physical systems against sensor attacks. The attack and defense strategies are established via additional historical data, and the defender aims to reduce the estimation error maximally while the attacker aims to degrade the system performance maximally. The algorithm is implemented in the Nash equilibrium framework where the defender first designs the defense strategy and then the attacker designs corresponding attack parameters to launch attacks. Then, a robust optimization problem is formulated using Wasserstein ambiguity sets, which turn out to be equivalent to a convex program. A novel secure observer is proposed, where the attack estimation is used to mitigate attacks. Moreover, the detector is to monitor system behavior and detects the existence of sensor attacks. Finally, simulation results and comparative results illustrate the effectiveness of the defense strategy.
Exteriorization of the uterus reduces fetoscopic cannula‐induced stress and strain: A finite element model analysis
Authors: Ahmad Mirza A. , Vergote Simen , Vander Poorten Emmanuel , Devlieger Roland , De Coppi Paolo , Mazza Edoardo , Deprest Jan
Published: January 2024

Objective

To estimate stresses and strains in the uterine wall and fetal membranes with single/multi‐port fetoscopy, simulating either a percutaneous access or via exteriorized uterus.

Study Design

Finite element models based on anatomical dimensions, material properties and boundary conditions were created to simulate stresses, strains and displacements on the uterine wall and fetal membranes during simulated fetal surgery either via exteriorized uterus or percutaneous approach, and with one or three cannulas. Clinically, we measured the anatomical layer thickness and cannula entry point displacement in patients undergoing single port percutaneous fetoscopy.

Results

Simulations demonstrate that single port percutaneous fetoscopy increases stress on the fetal membranes (+105%, 128 to 262 kPa) and uterine wall (+115%, 0.89 to 1.9 kPa) compared to exteriorized uterine access. Using three ports increases stress by 110% (148 to 312 kPa) on membranes and 113% (1.08 to 2.3 kPa) on uterine wall. Finite Element Method showed 0.75 cm uterine entry point displacement from the cutaneous entry, while clinical measurements demonstrated displacement of more than double (1.69 ± 0.58 cm), suggesting modeled measurements may be underestimations.

Conclusion

The stresses and strains on the fetal membranes and uterus are double as high when entering percutaneously than via an exteriorized uterus. Based on what can be clinically measured, this may be an underestimation.