bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association between 23 drugs and Parkinson's disease: A two‐sample Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Xie Zhixin , Zhou Haobin , Qiu Ziyu , Fan Zhongxi , Yang Weisheng , Zhang Jingbai , Wang Yezhong , Ye Yongyi
Published: September 2023

Background

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a common degenerative nervous system disease. At present, there are certain limitations in various treatment options aimed at preventing or delaying the progression of PD. Therefore, the exploration of new drugs for PD is beneficial. Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis can be used to explore the association between drugs and diseases. In this study, MR analysis was adopted to investigate the causal relationship between 23 drugs and PD. These drugs have been approved for the treatment of different diseases, such as salicylic acid and derivatives (collectively called salicylates, e.g., aspirin, used for fever and pain relief), antithrombotic agents (e.g., warfarin, aspirin, used for preventing thrombotic events).

Methods

The GWAS data for the 23 drugs were obtained from the UK Biobank (UKB) project, while the GWAS data for PD were sourced from FinnGen. Single‐Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) were selected as instrumental variables (IVs). We first performed a series of quality control steps (including MR‐PRESSO) to select the appropriate SNPs. Two‐sample MR analysis was performed using five different methods, including inverse variance weighting (IVW) with random‐effects model, weighted median, MR‐Egger, simple model, and weighted model. At the same time, sensitivity analysis was carried out using the MR‐Egger and Cochran's Q test to ensure the authenticity and reliability of the results.

Results

In MR‐PRESSO, salicylates and antithrombotic agents showed statistically significant associations with PD, respectively. In the main MR analysis (IVW), there was a negative causal relationship between salicylates and PD (OR = 0.73, 95% CI = 0.54–0.98, p = .039). Similarly, there was a negative causal relationship between antithrombotic agents and PD (OR = 0.70, 95%CI = 0.52–0.96, p = .027). No statistically significant association was found between the remaining 21 drugs and PD.

Conclusion

This MR study demonstrated that salicylates and antithrombotic agents can reduce the risk of PD, thus providing a novel avenue for future drug exploration in PD.
Curcumin and targeting of molecular and metabolic pathways in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Yazdani Yalda , Zamani Arezoo R. N. , Majidi Ziba , Sharafkandi Nadia , Alizadeh Shaban , Mofrad Amir M. E. , Valizadeh Amir , Idari Gholamreza , Radvar Aysan D. , Safaie Nasser , Faridvand Yousef
Published: September 2023

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a life‐threading disease that poses a great threat to the human being lifestyle. Having said extensive research in the realm of underlying mechanisms and treatment procedures, no definite remedy has been found. Over the past decades, many medicines have been disclosed to alleviate the symptoms and marking of MS. Meanwhile, the substantial efficacy of herbal medicines including curcumin must be underscored. Accumulated documents demonstrated the fundamental role of curcumin in the induction of the various signaling pathways. According to evidence, curcumin can play a role in mitochondrial dysfunction and apoptosis, autophagy, and mitophagy. Also, by targeting the signaling pathways AMPK, PGC‐1α/PPARγ, and PI3K/Akt/mTOR, curcumin interferes with the metabolism of MS. The anti‐inflammatory, antioxidant, and immune regulatory effects of this herbal compound are involved in its effectiveness against MS. Thus, the present review indicates the molecular and metabolic pathways associated with curcumin's various pharmacological actions on MS, as well as setting into context the many investigations that have noted curcumin‐mediated regulatory effects in MS.
The diagnostic value of chest X‐ray scanning by the help of Artificial Intelligence in Heart Failure (ART‐IN‐HF)
Authors: Celik Ahmet , Surmeli Ali Orcun , Demir Mustafa , Esen Kaan , Camsari Ahmet
Published: September 2023

Background

Typical signs of heart failure (HF), like increased cardiothoracic ratio (CTR) and pleural effusion, can be seen on X‐ray. Artificial Intelligence (AI) can help in the early and quicker diagnosis of HF.

Objectives

The study's goal was to demonstrate that the AI interpretation of chest X‐rays can assist the clinician in diagnosing HF.

Methods

Patients older than 45 years were included in the study. The study analyzed 10 100 deidentified outpatient chest X‐rays by AI algorithm. The AI‐generated report was later verified by an independent radiologist. Patients with CTR > 0.5 and pleural effusion were marked as potential HF. Flagged patients underwent confirmatory tests, and those labeled as negative also underwent further investigations to rule out HF.

Results

Out of 10 100, the AI algorithm detected 183 (1.8%) patients with increased CTR and pleural effusion on chest X‐rays. One hundred and six out of 183 underwent diagnostic tests. Eighty‐two (77%) out of 106 were diagnosed with HF according to current guidelines. From the remaining 9917 patients, 106 patients were randomly selected. Nine (8%) out of them were diagnosed with HF. The positive predictive value of AI for diagnosing HF is 77%, and the negative predictive value is 91%. More than half (54.9%) of newly diagnosed patients had HF with preserved ejection fraction.

Conclusion

HF is a risky condition with nonspecific symptoms that are difficult to diagnose, especially in the early stages. Using AI assistance for X‐ray interpretation can be helpful for early diagnosis of HF especially HF with preserved ejection fraction.
One‐Photon and Two‐Photon Absorption Properties of Multi‐Branched Squaraine Dyes Comprised of Triphenylamine Cores and Ethynylene Linkers
Authors: Nguyen Tay V. , Maeda Takeshi , Matsuyama Tetsuya , Suzuki Naoya , Nakazumi Hiroyuki , Yagi Shigeyuki , Ajayaghosh Ayyappanpillai
Published: September 2023

We developed multi‐branched π‐conjugated systems using squaraine dyes with triphenylamine cores connected by ethynylene linkers. We investigated the influence of interbranch coupling between squaraine branches on their one‐photon (OPA) and two‐photon absorption (TPA) properties. These dyes with triphenylamine components showed a red‐shifted one‐photon absorption (OPA) compared to the precursor squaraine dyes. Among branched dyes, the lack of apparent splitting or shift in the absorption maxima, even as the absorption intensity increased with the number of chromophores, implies the presence of limited exciton coupling between the squaraine branches. The present squaraine dyes with triphenylamine cores exhibited a moderate TPA compared to the precursor squaraine without the triphenylamine core, due to the extended π‐conjugation. Notably, both the 3‐branched and 2‐branched dyes demonstrated additional enhancement in the TPA response, surpassing that of the monochromophoric counterpart. This resulted in achieving a substantial TPA cross section of up to 3905 GM at 830 nm.
Study on combustion and emission characteristics of a micro‐rotary cam internal combustion engine
Authors: Zhu Hua , Yang Ming , Hao He , Chen Lu
Published: September 2023

In this article, the construction principle of rotary engine and sliding vane internal combustion engine is carefully analyzed, and the concept of micro‐rotary cam internal combustion engine is proposed by integrating and innovating on them. Overall design, theoretical analysis, and model making of miniature rotary cam internal combustion engine and its supporting system. The effects of different air intake modes and different ignition advance angles on the combustion and emission characteristics of internal combustion engines were studied. Through the study of the flow field, combustion and emission characteristics of small rotating internal combustion engines, it is found that the intake form has a great influence on the cylinder smoothness of rotating internal combustion engines. The vortex formed by the end cover inlet air in the middle of the combustion chamber can fully mix the fuel and air in the cylinder, and the mixture is evenly distributed in the combustion chamber to effectively promote the spread of flame. Compared with the surrounding air intake structure, the heat release should be increased by 4.3%, and the total amount of HC and CO generated was 26.8% and 15.7% less, respectively. By studying the turbulent kinetic energy, combustion heat release, peak temperature and pressure in the cylinder, fuel consumption rate and emission characteristics of small rotary internal combustion engine, it is found that when the ignition advance angle of the small rotating internal combustion engine is 5°, the peak pressure in the cylinder is increased by 2.3% compared with other schemes, the fuel consumption rate is high, and the combustion is more complete. In addition, in terms of emission characteristics, the amount of CO and HC generated when the ignition advance angle is 5° are reduced by 35% and 35.3%, respectively.
Agitation and its control on excess pore water pressure and debris‐flow behaviour
Authors: Li Bin , Xu Ze‐Min , Su Xiao , Meng Jing‐Kai , Ye Zi‐Ming , Shi Gui‐E , Wang Chen‐Xi , Tian Lin
Published: September 2023

Excess water pressure strongly affects the rheology and flow behaviour of debris flows, and the mechanisms for development and persistence of the pressure can be diverse. Using nine experimental slurries prepared with the sediments collected from the deposit of a large‐magnitude debris flow by modifying maximum grain size and solid concentration, the influence of agitation on excess water pressure is investigated with a cylinder apparatus, consisting of a coaxially mounted bucket and impeller driven by a variable‐speed motor. Agitation proceeding in three dynamic stages raises relative excess water pressure (R) by 17%–34% of the peak R in the static stage, showing that agitation can significantly increase excess water pressure. The magnitude of the steady R increases with the level of agitation, which is measured by impeller speed and slurry temperature, and the steady R in a slurry is agitation‐level‐dependent below its potential maximum value. The transfer of particle weight to water in debris flows can occur under zero or very low to extremely low effective stresses. Agitation raises excess water pressure essentially by promoting dispersion of the finest‐grained grains in water and that of progressively larger grains in gradually coarser‐grained slurries. The flow resistance of the tested slurries, characterized by net torque exerted on the impeller by the motor, decreases with increasing liquefaction ratio, demonstrating that agitation enhances debris‐flow mobility by raising excess water pressure. It is of importance to dampen agitation by building proper mitigation measures in remedial practices.
Early detection of potential landslides along high‐speed railway lines: A pressing issue
Authors: Zhu Yaru , Qiu Haijun , Cui Peng , Liu Zijing , Ye Bingfeng , Yang Dongdong , Kamp Ulrich
Published: September 2023

Early detection of landslides is important for prevention and mitigation of landslide disasters. Especially, accurately identifying potential landslides along high‐speed railway is becoming a pressing issue for operation safety of high‐speed railway. Here, 161 Sentinel‐1A satellite images from March 2017 to September 2022 were acquired to detect potential landslides along the Lanzhou‐Urumqi high‐speed railway (LUHR) in Qinghai. Results show that rainfall is the main cause for the transition from secondary creep (steady state) to tertiary creep (accelerated) at the Jiujiawan landslide. The hot spot analysis method was used to cluster the average line‐of‐sight deformation velocity along the LUHR, effectively extracting five deformation zones that may pose a threat. Optical satellite image analysis revealed four potential landslides and one unstable slope. Furthermore, the rescaled range analysis documented that the Hurst exponent is greater than 0.8 for all four potential landslide instability points, implying that the identified potential landslide areas are still in motion and may pose a threat to the operation of the LUHR. On this basis, we propose a framework for early identification and monitoring of landslides along the high‐speed railway lines that supports landslide hazard managing with the goal to reduce landslide risk.
Astrocytic FoxO1 in the hypothalamus regulates metabolic homeostasis by coordinating neuropeptide Y neuron activity
Authors: Doan Khanh Van , Tran Le Trung , Yang Dong Joo , Ha Thu Thi Anh , Mai Thi Dang , Kim Seul Ki , DePinho Ronald A. , Shin Dong‐Min , Choi Yun‐Hee , Kim Ki Woo
Published: September 2023

The forkhead box transcription factor O1 (FoxO1) is expressed ubiquitously throughout the central nervous system, including in astrocytes, the most prevalent glial cell type in the brain. While the role of FoxO1 in hypothalamic neurons in controlling food intake and energy balance is well‐established, the contribution of astrocytic FoxO1 in regulating energy homeostasis has not yet been determined. In the current study, we demonstrate the essential role of hypothalamic astrocytic FoxO1 in maintaining normal neuronal activity in the hypothalamus and whole‐body glucose metabolism. Inhibition of FoxO1 function in hypothalamic astrocytes shifts the cellular metabolism from glycolysis to oxidative phosphorylation, enhancing astrocyte ATP production and release meanwhile decreasing astrocytic export of lactate. As a result, specific deletion of astrocytic FoxO1, particularly in the hypothalamus, causes a hyperactivation of hypothalamic neuropeptide Y neurons, which leads to an increase in acute feeding and impaired glucose regulation and ultimately results in diet‐induced obesity and systemic glucose dyshomeostasis.
Blood C‐peptide concentration as a proxy marker of cardiovascular disease: An observational cross‐sectional study
Authors: Adusu‐Donkor Laurinda , Ofori Emmanuel Kwaku , Kotey Fleischer C. N. , Dogodzi Francis Kwaku , Dziedzorm Wormenor , Buabeng Alfred , Bernard Segla Kwame , Amponsah Seth K. , Asare‐Anane Henry
Published: September 2023

Background and Aims

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are among the leading causes of disability and early death in sub‐Saharan Africa. Most of the current blood tests for CVD diagnosis involve performing about three test profiles; often at additional cost to patients. C‐peptide, a cleavage product of proinsulin, is a promising marker that has the potential to serve as a proxy marker for diagnosing CVDs in resource‐poor settings.

Methodology

The study was an observational cross‐sectional one and involved 127 consenting persons diagnosed with CVD and 127 individuals without CVD. The socio‐demographic and clinical characteristics of participants were obtained. Blood levels of C‐peptide, fasting plasma glucose (FPG), total creatinine kinase (CK), creatine kinase myocardial bound (CKMB), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), propeptide of brain natriuretic peptide (PBNP), Troponin T, lipids, and biomarkers of kidney and liver function were analyzed using ELISA and an automated analyzer. Insulin resistance was computed using the modified homeostatic model assessment (HOMA‐IR).

Results

The CVD Group had significantly higher levels of C‐peptide, CK, CKMB, troponin T, PBNP, FPG, HOMA‐IR, and several selected kidney, liver, and lipid parameters compared to the non‐CVD Group (p < 0.05 for all). Troponin T recorded a positive correlation (r = 0.34,p < 0.001) with C‐peptide among the CVD Group. The sensitivity and specificity of C‐peptide in identifying CVD were 96.1% and 91.3% respectively (area under the curve = 0.938,p < 0.001).

Conclusion

C‐peptide levels were higher in the CVD Group and appeared to be a valuable (high sensitivity and specificity) biomarker in detecting CVD.
A 10‐year longitudinal study of dental students’ emotional intelligence and the impact of COVID‐19
Authors: Farah‐Franco Sandra M. , Taylor Leo C. , Rowan Sean Z. , Andrews Elizabeth A.
Published: September 2023

Purpose/objectives

Emotional intelligence (EI) supports the clinical and social competencies of a practicing dentist. Reuven Bar‐On's EI model is an array of inter‐related emotional and social competencies, skills, and behaviors, which consist of five key domains: Self‐Perception, Self‐Expression, Interpersonal, Decision Making, and Stress Management, and associated with the domains are 15 emotional quotient (EQ) subskills. This study measured the impact of COVID‐19 on dental students' EI by comparing measures pre‐COVID‐19 and during COVID‐19 matriculation.

Methods

This retrospective longitudinal study measured EI with the EQ‐i 2.0 for higher education. Dental students completed an EQ‐i 2.0 assessment (Attempt) at the beginning of matriculation, at the mid‐point, and prior to graduation. Ten groups were included, of which the first three completed matriculation prior to the pandemic and the remaining seven matriculated during timeframes intersecting at different times during the pandemic. A paired t‐test dependent sample of means (p ≤ 0.05) compared EQ scores for each attempt for all groups. The study compared means for three EQ attempts with the t‐test independent sample of means (p ≤ 0.05) for cohorts matriculating pre‐COVID‐19 and during COVID‐19.

Results

The pre‐COVID‐19 groups showed significant increases in EQ with each subsequent attempt. COVID‐19‐impacted groups demonstrated significant increase in Stress Tolerance and significant decreases, most notably in the domains of Interpersonal and Self‐Perception, and subscales of Optimism and Happiness.

Conclusion(s)

COVID‐19‐related stressors impacted dental students’ EI as multiple EI areas declined significantly. Dental educators should minimize organizational stressors and support EI during years 2 and 3 of matriculation.
Corneal damage threshold induced by supercontinuum source: A further study
Authors: Jiao Luguang , Wang Chao , Wang Jiarui , Yang Zaifu
Published: September 2023

Objectives

Previous report shows that corneal spot size is an important influence factor on damage threshold induced by supercontinumm (SC) source. However, damage thresholds were determined for the spot size of only 0.37 mm due to the low output of the employed SC source at that time. The objectives of this study are to determine the lowest possible corneal damage threshold at a large corneal spot size using a more powerful SC source and provide data for the future possible refinements of laser safety standards.

Materials and Methods

A series of experiments was conducted in the New Zealand white rabbit model to determine the corneal damage threshold induced by a 900–2000 nm SC source, with corneal 1/e beam diameter of about 1.2 mm. Slit‐lamp biomicroscope was employed to reveal the corneal damage characteristics. By employing the action spectra determined through the analysis of current laser safety guidelines and standards, the effective damage threshold could be calculated.

Results

The determined damage threshold given in terms of the peak radiant exposure for the exposure duration of 0.14 s was 44.3 J/cm2. At threshold level, corneal damages involved the epithelium and the shallower stroma. The safety factor between the effective damage threshold and the corresponding maximum permissible exposure (MPE) was about 45.

Conclusions

Present corneal MPEs in the wavelength range of 700–1200 nm may be conservative and corneal damage thresholds for the infrared A wavelengths should be determined in future studies.
Deep learning‐based fast denoising of Monte Carlo dose calculation in carbon ion radiotherapy
Authors: Zhang Xinyang , Zhang Hui , Wang Jian , Ma Yuanyuan , Liu Xinguo , Dai Zhongying , He Rui , He Pengbo , Li Qiang
Published: September 2023

Background

Plan verification is one of the important steps of quality assurance (QA) in carbon ion radiotherapy. Conventional methods of plan verification are based on phantom measurement, which is labor‐intensive and time‐consuming. Although the plan verification method based on Monte Carlo (MC) simulation provides a more accurate modeling of the physics, it is also time‐consuming when simulating with a large number of particles. Therefore, how to ensure the accuracy of simulation results while reducing simulation time is the current difficulty and focus.

Purpose

The purpose of this work was to evaluate the feasibility of using deep learning‐based MC denoising method to accelerate carbon‐ion radiotherapy plan verification.

Methods

Three models, including CycleGAN, 3DUNet and GhostUNet with Ghost module, were used to denoise the 1 × 106 carbon ions‐based MC dose distribution to the accuracy of 1 × 108 carbon ions‐based dose distribution. The CycleGAN's generator, 3DUNet and GhostUNet were all derived from the 3DUNet network. A total of 59 cases including 29 patients with head‐and‐neck cancers and 30 patients with lung cancers were collected, and 48 cases were randomly selected as the training set of the CycleGAN network and six cases as the test set. For the 3DUNet and GhostUNet models, the numbers of training set, validation set, and test set were 47, 6, and 6, respectively. Finally, the three models were evaluated qualitatively and quantitatively using RMSE and three‐dimensional gamma analysis (3 mm, 3%).

Results

The three end‐to‐end trained models could be used for denoising the 1 × 106 carbon ions‐based dose distribution, and their generalization was proved. The GhostUNet obtained the lowest RMSE value of 0.075, indicating the smallest difference between its denoised and 1 × 108 carbon ions‐based dose distributions. The average gamma passing rate (GPR) between the GhostUNet denoising‐based versus 1 × 108 carbon ions‐based dose distributions was 99.1%, higher than that of the CycleGAN at 94.3% and the 3DUNet at 96.2%. Among the three models, the GhostUNet model had the fewest parameters (4.27 million) and the shortest training time (99 s per epoch) but achieved the best denoising results.

Conclusion

The end‐to‐end deep network GhostUNet outperforms the CycleGAN, 3DUNet models in denoising MC dose distributions for carbon ion radiotherapy. The network requires less than 5 s to denoise a sample of MC simulation with few particles to obtain a qualitative and quantitative result comparable to the dose distribution simulated by MC with relatively large number particles, offering a significant reduction in computation time.
Measure Viruses in the Field to Demonstrate Water Reuse Safety
Authors: Ness Anna , Zarei‐Baygi Ali , Macnevin Dave
Published: September 2023

Available, effective methods of virus detection adequately address the risks in treating water for potable reuse.
Structure‐preserving methods for a coupled port‐Hamiltonian system of compressible non‐isothermal fluid flow
Authors: Hauschild Sarah‐Alexa , Marheineke Nicole
Published: September 2023

The port‐Hamiltonian (pH) formulation of partial‐differential equations and their numerical treatment have been elaborately studied lately. One advantage of pH‐systems is that fundamental physical properties, like energy dissipation and mass conservation, are encoded in the system structure. Therefore, structure‐preservation is most important during all stages of approximation and system coupling. In this context we consider the non‐isothermal flow of a compressible fluid through a network of pipes. Based on a pH‐formulation of Euler‐type equations on one pipe, we introduce coupling conditions, through which we can realize energy, mass and entropy conservation at the coupling nodes and thus, preserve the pH‐structure. We implement them through an input‐output‐coupling using the flow and effort variables of the boundary port. Thus, we can make use of the structure‐preserving model and complexity reduction techniques for the single pipe. This procedure becomes even more important for network simulations, as here, we deal with high dimensional and highly non‐linear dynamical systems. We explain the extension from a single pipe to a network and numerical examples are shown to support our findings.
SBFEM with reduced modal basis for hydrodynamic bearings
Authors: Pfeil Simon , Song Chongmin , Woschke Elmar
Published: September 2023

The numerical effort of transient rotordynamic simulations is often dominated by the computation of nonlinear hydrodynamic bearing forces. These forces are described by the Reynolds equation and need to be computed at every time step. Usually, numerical models, analytical approximations, or look‐up table techniques are employed, depending on the desired tradeoff between accuracy and computational cost. In recent studies, a semi‐analytical approach based on the scaled boundary finite element method (SBFEM) has been developed as an efficient alternative to these methods. The partial differential equation is transformed into a system of ordinary differential equations, leading to an eigenvalue problem. Here, the numerical effort can be further decreased by means of a modal reduction, which is investigated in this study. The shaft eccentricity determines the smoothness of the hydrodynamic pressure field and is identified as an adequate indicator as to what subset of eigenvalues and eigenvectors should be considered in the solution.
Production and tribological performance under sliding contact conditions of zirconia and reduced graphene oxide loaded polymer nanocomposites for biomedical applications
Authors: Singh Devendra Kumar , Verma Rajesh Kumar , Singh Vinay Pratap , Mishra Sanjay
Published: September 2023

This work targets the production of novel biomaterials and an optimized process to disperse Zirconia (ZrO2) and reduced graphene oxide (rGO) in the ultra‐high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) matrix. The mechanical and wear performance of the developed samples were evaluated through compression and tribological tests utilizing a bio‐tribometer. The developed samples are tested under simulated body fluid (SBF) lubricating media. In particular, the hybrid material is made of 5 wt% zirconia and 1 wt% rGO have an enhanced compression modulus of 0.29 GPa. This indicates a 26.08% improvement over pristine UHMWPE. Besides this, the compressive strength of this hybrid material is about 46.75% higher than that of pristine UHMWPE. The gray theory provided optimum settings as 1 wt% rGO and 5 wt% ZrO2 fillers are loading with 60 N load and 900 sec cycle time. The long‐range organized lamellar structures and microfibers were formed between the crystals with the help of the graphene layers. The inclusion of rGO nanofillers (1 wt%) and zirconia improve the wear resistance, which signifies the best‐desired values for coefficient of friction (Cf) and Specific wear rate (Wr). Improved loading conditions for prosthetics and implant components are possible with modified UHMWPE.

Highlights

This work highlights the tribological performances of hybrid nanocomposites.

The effect of rGO and ceramic (ZrO2) nanofillers on UHMWPE was examined.

Zirconia/rGO enhanced bio‐inert, wear‐resistant and biocompatibility.

Compared to pristine, 1 wt% rGO and 5 wt% ZrO2 sample shows better results.

Orthopedic and dental prostheses may be made using hybrid nanocomposite.
Depressive symptoms, burnout, resilience, and psychosocial support in healthcare workers during the COVID‐19 pandemic: A nationwide study in Japan
Authors: Oyama Nene , Seki Mayumi , Nakai Mari , Miyamoto Kyoko , Nagao Kayoko , Morimitsu Reo
Published: September 2023

Aim

The coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic has significantly impacted the mental health of healthcare workers. This study aimed to assess the mental health of healthcare workers and identify risk and protective factors.

Methods

We surveyed 48,031 healthcare workers at 63 Japanese Red Cross hospitals from December 15, 2022 to January 15, 2023. Mental health was assessed using the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale, the Japanese Burnout Scale, and 10‐item Connor–Davidson Resilience Scale. Furthermore, we inquired about the psychosocial support activities provided to the healthcare workers within their workplaces.

Results

This study included 3815 healthcare workers (250 doctors, 32 residents, 2588 nurses, 504 co‐medical staff, and 441 administrative staff). Symptoms of depression were noted in 31.5% of all participants and 46.9% of resident doctors. Women and those who were young, lived alone, had a nonmanagement position, had contact with coronavirus disease 2019 patients, or had passive motivation to coronavirus disease 2019 work had a significantly higher total Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale score than in the corresponding groups with the opposite characteristics. High emotional exhaustion and depersonalization scores on the Japanese Burnout Scale were risk factors for depressive symptoms, while living with family was a protective factor. Moreover, interventions such as job performance support (skills, knowledge, information, and safety), peer support, and organizational support (infection control team, patient care rotation systems) were effective.

Conclusion

The impact of the prolonged coronavirus pandemic on mental health among healthcare workers is clear, and organized psychosocial support is needed.
Improving the accuracy of automated gout flare ascertainment using natural language processing of electronic health records and linked Medicare claims data
Authors: Yoshida Kazuki , Cai Tianrun , Bessette Lily G. , Kim Erin , Lee Su Been , Zabotka Luke E. , Sun Alec , Mastrorilli Julianna M. , Oduol Theresa A. , Liu Jun , Solomon Daniel H. , Kim Seoyoung C. , Desai Rishi J. , Liao Katherine P.
Published: September 2023

Background

We aimed to determine whether integrating concepts from the notes from the electronic health record (EHR) data using natural language processing (NLP) could improve the identification of gout flares.

Methods

Using Medicare claims linked with EHR, we selected gout patients who initiated the urate‐lowering therapy (ULT). Patients' 12‐month baseline period and on‐treatment follow‐up were segmented into 1‐month units. We retrieved EHR notes for months with gout diagnosis codes and processed notes for NLP concepts. We selected a random sample of 500 patients and reviewed each of their notes for the presence of a physician‐documented gout flare. Months containing at least 1 note mentioning gout flares were considered months with events. We used 60% of patients to train predictive models with LASSO. We evaluated the models by the area under the curve (AUC) in the validation data and examined positive/negative predictive values (P/NPV).

Results

We extracted and labeled 839 months of follow‐up (280 with gout flares). The claims‐only model selected 20 variables (AUC = 0.69). The NLP concept‐only model selected 15 (AUC = 0.69). The combined model selected 32 claims variables and 13 NLP concepts (AUC = 0.73). The claims‐only model had a PPV of 0.64 [0.50, 0.77] and an NPV of 0.71 [0.65, 0.76], whereas the combined model had a PPV of 0.76 [0.61, 0.88] and an NPV of 0.71 [0.65, 0.76].

Conclusion

Adding NLP concept variables to claims variables resulted in a small improvement in the identification of gout flares. Our data‐driven claims‐only model and our combined claims/NLP‐concept model outperformed existing rule‐based claims algorithms reliant on medication use, diagnosis, and procedure codes.
Bandleitfähigkeit im Hofstadter‐Schmetterling
Authors: Huber Robin , Weiss Dieter , Eroms Jonathan
Published: September 2023

Die erlaubten Energiewerte von Elektronen in Kristallen liegen in Bändern, die auch den Stromtransport in leitfähigen Materialien bestimmen. Setzt man Kristalle einem Magnetfeld aus, so zerfallen die Bänder in ein fraktales Spektrum, den Hofstadter‐Schmetterling. Wir konnten in einem künstlichen Kristallpotential in einlagigem Graphen zeigen, dass sich diese Struktur durch Oszillationen der Bandleitfähigkeit nachweisen lässt. Diese Oszillationen sind noch bei Temperaturen sichtbar, bei denen der innere Aufbau des Hofstadter‐Schmetterlings schon nicht mehr zu erkennen ist.
Design and experimental assessment of a field‐spraying system with nozzles employing reciprocating up‐and‐down movements
Authors: Sun Chengda
Published: September 2023

BACKGROUND

Proper dense planting pattern can improve rice yield. For an ordinary boom sprayer, it is still difficult for the droplets to penetrate the dense rice canopy even if an auxiliary airflow is used, especially in the middle and late growth stages. The deposits of droplets at the bottom of the rice plants are typically small. In this study, a spraying system was designed with nozzles creating reciprocating movements into the middle and bottom of the rice canopy. An air pump provided power to push the nozzles up and down. A time relay and a solenoid valve were used to control the cycle and stroke of the reciprocating movement. At different growth stages of rice, comparative tests were conducted between the air‐assisted spraying pattern (without reciprocating movement of nozzles) and the reciprocating movement spraying pattern (without auxiliary airflow).

RESULTS

The results showed that for the reciprocating movement spraying pattern, the droplet number densities in the middle and bottom of the rice in the late growth stages increased from 78 to 124/cm2 and from 19 to 121/cm2, respectively, and the coverage rates increased from 13.34% to 24.26% and from 3.61% to 21.21%, respectively. The droplet depositions increased from 0.603 to 1.139 mg cm−2 and from 0.095 to 1.001 mg cm−2, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

This spraying pattern can increase droplet deposits at the middle and bottom of the crop and improve uniformity. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
First principle determination of stability constants of metal complexes by cellmetry method
Authors: Purgel Mihály , Schuur Jan Heinrich
Published: September 2023

The stability constants of 81 metal complexes were calculated using the newly‐developed method which was previously used for determining pK values of acid–base dissociation constants by plane wave functions. Fifteen metal ions and 36 ligands were chosen, and a wide range of the complexes was studied to calculate the logK and logß stability constants. The large variety of geometries and coordination modes allowed us to see the limitation of the method. In some cases, good agreements could be found with the experimental data with an accuracy of .5–1 unit. Results howed that for smaller structural changes, the stability constants can be calculated easily by using the determined parameters. For larger structural differences, rough estimations by 2–4 logK units can be conducted. Correlations could be found among the data which can help further studies as well as aid in the prediction of some unknown complexes. The pK of a hexaaqua metal complex was determined as well.
Delayed gastric emptying after pylorus‐preserving pancreatoduodenectomy: Comparison between traditional open surgery and full‐robotic approach with da Vinci Xi
Authors: Morelli Luca , Di Franco Gregorio , Furbetta Niccolò , Palmeri Matteo , Guadagni Simone , Gianardi Desirée , Carpenito Cristina , Comandatore Annalisa , Giovannetti Elisa , Di Candio Giulio , Cuschieri Alfred
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Delayed gastric emptying (DGE) is a frequent complication after pancreatoduodenectomy, especially after pylorus preservation (Pp). We evaluated the effect of a fully robotic approach with da Vinci Xi on DGE after PpPD.

Methods

Open and robotic PDs were performed in 353 and 50 cases, respectively, from January 2009 to March 2022. We compared the clinical outcomes and incidence of clinically relevant DGE between robotic PpPD (R‐PpPD) and open PpPD after one‐to‐one case‐control matching.

Results

Each group consisted of 30 patients. Clinically relevant DGE was less common after R‐PpPD (3/30 [10%] vs. 10/30 cases [33.3%], p = 0.028). The median length of hospital stay (LoS) was significantly lower in the R‐PpPD group (10 vs. 15 days, p = 0.013).

Conclusion

The reduced tissue trauma by the minimally invasive robotic approach is associated with a lower incidence of DGE, reducing the LoS and encouraging PpPD performed using the fully robotic approach.
Changes in Hole and Electron Injection under Electrical Stress and the Rapid Electroluminescence Loss in Blue Quantum‐Dot Light‐Emitting Devices
Authors: Ghorbani Atefeh , Chen Junfei , Chun Peter , Lyu Quan , Cotella Giovanni , Aziz Hany
Published: September 2023

Blue quantum dot light‐emitting devices (QLEDs) suffer from fast electroluminescence (EL) loss when under electrical bias. Here, it is identified that the fast EL loss in blue QLEDs is not due to a deterioration in the photoluminescence quantum yield of the quantum dots (QDs), contrary to what is commonly believed, but rather arises primarily from changes in charge injection overtime under the bias that leads to a deterioration in charge balance. Measurements on hole‐only and electron‐only devices show that hole injection into blue QDs increases over time whereas electron injection decreases. Results also show that the changes are associated with changes in hole and electron trap densities. The results are further verified using QLEDs with blue and red QDs combinations, capacitance versus voltage, and versus time characteristics of the blue QLEDs. The changes in charge injection are also observed to be partially reversible, and therefore using pulsed current instead of constant current bias for driving the blue QLEDs leads to an almost 2.5× longer lifetime at the same initial luminance. This work systematically investigates the origin of blue QLEDs EL loss and provides insights for designing improved blue QDs paving the way for QLEDs technology commercialization.
Dual Heterojunctions and Nanobowl Morphology Engineered BiVO4 Photoanodes for Enhanced Solar Water Splitting
Authors: Ren Kexin , Zhou Jiayi , Wu Zihao , Sun Qi , Qi Limin
Published: September 2023

Photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting represents an attractive strategy to realize the conversion from solar energy to hydrogen energy, but severe charge recombination in photoanodes significantly limits the conversion efficiency. Herein, a unique BiVO4 (BVO) nanobowl (NB) heterojunction photoanode, which consists of [001]‐oriented BiOCl underlayer and BVO nanobowls containing embedded BiOCl nanocrystals, is fabricated by nanosphere lithography followed by in situ transformation. Experimental characterizations and theoretical simulation prove that nanobowl morphology can effectively enhance light absorption while reducing carrier diffusion path. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations show the tendency of electron transfer from BVO to BiOCl. The [001]‐oriented BiOCl underlayer forms a compact type II heterojunction with the BVO, favoring electron transfer from BVO through BiOCl to the substrate. Furthermore, the embedded BiOCl nanoparticles form a bulk heterojunction to facilitate bulk electron transfer. Consequently, the dual heterojunctions engineered BVO/BiOCl NB photoanode exhibits attractive PEC performance toward water oxidation with an excellent bulk charge separation efficiency of 95.5%, and a remarkable photocurrent density of 3.38 mA cm−2 at 1.23 V versus reversible hydrogen electrode, a fourfold enhancement compared to the flat BVO counterpart. This work highlights the great potential of integrating dual heterojunctions engineering and morphology engineering in fabricating high‐performance photoelectrodes toward efficient solar conversion.
Mediating Triple Ions Migration Behavior via a Fluorinated Separator Interface toward Highly Reversible Aqueous Zn Batteries
Authors: Shen Fang , Du He , Qin Hongyu , Wei Zongwu , Kuang Wei , Hu Nan , Lv Wensong , Yi Zhihui , Huang Dan , Chen Zhengjun , He Huibing
Published: September 2023

Rampant dendrite growth, electrode passivation and severe corrosion originate from the uncontrolled ions migration behavior of Zn2+, SO42−, and H+, which are largely compromising the aqueous zinc ion batteries (AZIBs) performance. Exploring the ultimate strategy to eliminate all the Zn anode issues is challenging but urgent at present. Herein, a fluorinated separator interface (PVDF@GF) is constructed simply by grafting the polyvinylidene difluoride (PVDF) on the GF surface to realize high‐performance AZIBs. Experimental and theoretical studies reveal that the strong interaction between C─F bonds in the PVDF and Zn2+ ions enables evenly redistributed Zn2+ ions concentration at the electrode interface and accelerates the Zn transportation kinetics, leading to homogeneous and fast Zn deposition. Furthermore, the electronegative separator interface can spontaneously repel the SO42− and anchor H+ ions to alleviate the passivation and corrosion. Accordingly, the Zn|Zn symmetric cell with PVDF@GF harvests a superior cycling stability of 500 h at 10 mAh cm−2, and the Zn|VOX full cell delivers 76.8% capacity retention after 1000 cycles at 2 A g−1. This work offers an all‐round solution and provides new insights for the design of advanced separators with ionic sieve function toward stable and reversible Zn metal anode chemistry.
Incorporating statistical and machine learning techniques into the optimization of correction factors for software development effort estimation
Authors: Nhung Ho Le Thi Kim , Van Hai Vo , Silhavy Petr , Prokopova Zdenka , Silhavy Radek
Published: September 2023

Accurate effort estimation is necessary for efficient management of software development projects, as it relates to human resource management. Ensemble methods, which employ multiple statistical and machine learning techniques, are more robust, reliable, and accurate effort estimation techniques. This study develops a stacking ensemble model based on optimization correction factors by integrating seven statistical and machine learning techniques (K‐nearest neighbor, random forest, support vector regression, multilayer perception, gradient boosting, linear regression, and decision tree). The grid search optimization method is used to obtain valid search ranges and optimal configuration values, allowing more accurate estimation. We conducted experiments to compare the proposed method with related methods, such as use case points‐based single methods, optimization correction factors‐based single methods, and ensemble methods. The estimation accuracies of the methods were evaluated using statistical tests and unbiased performance measures on a total of four datasets, thus demonstrating the effectiveness of the proposed method more clearly. The proposed method successfully maintained its estimation accuracy across the four experimental datasets and gave the best results in terms of the sum of squares errors, mean absolute error, root mean square error, mean balance relative error, mean inverted balance relative error, median of magnitude of relative error, and percentage of prediction (0.25). The p‐value for the t‐test showed that the proposed method is statistically superior to other methods in terms of estimation accuracy. The results show that the proposed method is a comprehensive approach for improving estimation accuracy and minimizing project risks in the early stages of software development.
Seroprevalence of Toxoplasma infection in individuals occupationally exposed to livestock and raw meat: A case–control study
Authors: Hejazi Seyed Hossein , Kalantari Reza , Jafari Rasool , Ghayour Zahra , Nokhodian Zary , Esmaeilifallah Mahsa
Published: September 2023

Background

The expectancy of Toxoplasma gondii transmitted from livestock and raw meat to humans is a public health problem and is an example of the One Health theory.

Objectives

This survey aimed to determine the seroprevalence and risk factors related to this common infection in individuals occupationally exposed (IOE) to livestock, raw meat and viscera in industrial slaughterhouses and livestock fields in Isfahan province, central Iran.

Methods

This study is a case–control survey carried out on the 401 serum samples of IOE (including slaughterhouse workers, butchers, veterinarians, veterinary technicians, livestock farmers and farm workers) compared to 401 archived samples of the general population (that all matched with cases by region, age and gender). All 802 samples were investigated for anti‐T. gondii IgM and anti‐T. gondii IgG using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.

Results

A statistically significant higher anti‐T. gondii IgG occurrence (p < 0.001) was observed in IOE compared to the control group (46.1% vs. 31.4%). According to our knowledge, this is the first case–control study on the seroprevalence of anti‐T. gondii in IOE to livestock in central Iran.

Conclusions

These findings show a potentially significant association between T. gondii seropositivity and occupational exposure to livestock. Therefore, it is essential to develop guidelines for preventing disease transmission among IOE to livestock, raw meat and viscera in industrial slaughterhouses and livestock fields.
Preparation and properties of PVC composites filled with walnut shell powder hybrid attapulgite
Authors: Yang Junqian , Zhang Keping , Chen Dongsheng , Zhang Xi , Zhang Yanan
Published: September 2023

In order to reveal the effect of alkali treatment of walnut shell (WS) powder and attapulgite (ATP) hybrid filling on the properties of WS/polyvinyl chloride (PVC) composites, and to compare the effects of different reinforcement methods, WS/PVC composites were prepared by single screw melt extrusion. Furthermore, analysis was conducted on the chemical composition, thermal stability, microstructure, and physical, mechanical and wear resistance properties of composites. The results showed that ATP hybrid can enhance the performance of WPC more effectively than alkali treatment, unmodified WS blended with ATP composites have the best physical, mechanical properties, abrasive wear resistance, as well as lower water absorption, compared with the untreated, the tensile strength, bending strength and impact strength increased by 24%, 8%, and 21%, respectively. In addition, the composites of ATP hybrid alkali treated WS have the best thermal stability, and its pyrolysis residue is 15.64% higher than untreated composites. The study found that ATP have a larger potential to enhance the properties of composites than alkali treatment.

Highlights

Chemical treatment and inorganic mineral particle filling were used to enhance the properties of the WS/PVC composites.

The experimental results showed that attapulgite can maximize the properties of the composites without alkali treatment. This means that attapulgite filling is a more effective and environmentally friendly and simple method to enhance the properties of composites than alkali treatment.

The wear failure modes of the composites are mainly micro‐indentation and micro‐cutting.
Large Carnivores
Authors: Thompson Daniel J. , Ryder Thomas J.
Published: September 2023

Following historical efforts to eradicate them, large carnivores including gray wolves (Canis lupus), mountain lions (Puma concolor), black bears (Ursus americanus), and grizzly bears (U. arctos), have demonstrated an ability to recover across rangeland habitats in western North America during the last 50 years. While former distributions of these species were greatly reduced by the early-1960s, all are exhibiting range expansion and population increase across much (e.g., mountain lion and black bear) or portions (e.g., wolf and grizzly bear) of their historical range. This recovery of large carnivores in western landscapes has led to increased conflict with humans and a greater need for science-based management strategies by agencies with statutory responsibility for wildlife conservation. As conflict potential with large carnivores has increased, so have proactive and reactive conflict management programs for those impacted by large carnivores. Imperative to any successful large carnivore conflict mitigation is a focused outreach and education program for those who live, work, and recreate in habitats where wolves, mountain lions, and bears occur. Managers are continually evaluating the challenges and realities of intact large carnivore guilds within rangeland settings. Research and monitoring furthers our understanding and efficacy of management strategies for large carnivores now and into the future, striving to build on knowledge regarding the intricacies of population dynamics among predators and prey, including domestic species and humans.