bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Observing sources of system resilience using in situ alarm simulations
Authors: McLoone Melissa , McNamara Meghan , Jennings Megan A. , Stinson Hannah R. , Luo Brooke T. , Ferro Daria , Albanowski Kimberly , Ruppel Halley , Won James , Bonafide Christopher P. , Rasooly Irit R.
Published: October 2023

Alarm fatigue (and resultant alarm nonresponse) threatens the safety of hospitalized patients. Historically threats to patient safety, including alarm fatigue, have been evaluated using a Safety I perspective analyzing rare events such as failure to respond to patients' critical alarms. Safety II approaches call for learning from the everyday adaptations clinicians make to keep patients safe. To identify such sources of resilience in alarm systems, we conducted 59 in situ simulations of a critical hypoxemic‐event alarm in medical/surgical and intensive care units at a tertiary care pediatric hospital between December 2019 and May 2022. Response timing, observations of the environment, and postsimulation debrief interviews were captured. Four primary means of successful alarm responses were mapped to domains of Systems Engineering Initiative for Patient Safety framework to inform alarm system design and improvement.
Ivermectin as a potential therapeutic strategy for glioma
Authors: Hu Xing , Ju Yan , Zhang Yue‐Kang
Published: October 2023

Ivermectin (IVM), a semi‐synthetic macrolide parasiticide, has demonstrated considerable effectiveness in combating internal and external parasites, particularly nematodes and arthropods. Its remarkable ability to control parasites has earned it significant recognition, culminating in Satoshi Omura and William C. Campbell's receipt of the 2015 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for their contributions to the development of IVM. In recent years, investigations have revealed that IVM possesses antitumor properties. It can suppress the growth of various cancer cells, including glioma, through a multitude of mechanisms such as selective targeting of tumor‐specific proteins, inducing programmed cell death, and modulation of tumor‐related signaling pathways. Hence, IVM holds tremendous potential as a novel anticancer drug. This review seeks to provide an overview of the underlying mechanisms that enable IVM's capacity to suppress glioma. Furthermore, it aims to elucidate the challenges and prospects associated with utilizing IVM as a new anticancer agent.
Big data and RCT's in surgical oncology: Impact on improving hepatopancreatobiliary cancer surgical care on the global stage
Authors: Shrikhande Shailesh V. , Kunte Aditya R. , Chopde Amit N. , Chaudhari Vikram A. , Bhandare Manish S.
Published: October 2023

Randomized controlled clinical trials (RCTs) are at the heart of “evidence‐based” medicine. Conducting well‐designed RCTs for surgical procedures is often challenged by inadequate recruitment accrual, blinding, or standardization of the surgical procedure, as well as lack of funding and evolution of the treatment strategy during the many years over which such trials are conducted. In addition, most clinical trials are performed in academic high‐volume centers with highly selected patients, which may not necessarily reflect a “real‐world” practice setting. Large databases provide easy and inexpensive access to data on a large and diverse patient population at a variety of treatment centers. Furthermore, large database studies provide the opportunity to answer questions that would be impossible or very arduous to answer using RCTs, including questions regarding health policy efficacy, trends in surgical practice, access to health care, the impact of hospital volume, and adherence to practice guidelines, as well as research questions regarding rare disease, infrequent surgical outcomes, and specific subpopulations. Prospective data registries may also allow for quality benchmarking and auditing. There are several high‐quality RCTs providing evidence to support current practices in hepatopancreatobiliary (HPB) oncology. Evidence from big data bridges the gap in several instances where RCTs are lacking. In this article, we review the evidence from RCTs and big data in HPB oncology identify the existing lacunae, and discuss the future directions of research in HPB oncology.
Immunosuppression is a risk factor for worse survival and disease‐specific death in cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Greene Adina , Hwang Angelina S. , Kechter Jacob A. , Boudreaux Blake W. , Bhullar Puneet , Severson Kevin J. , Butterfield Richard J. , Zhang Nan , Tolaymat Leila M. , Degesys Catherine A. , Ochoa Shari A. , Arpey Christopher J. , Baum Christian L. , Mangold Aaron R.
Published: October 2023

Background

Previous literature on cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) suggests that the incidence, rate of metastasis, and tumour severity of cSCC are higher in immunosuppressed patients than in immunocompetent patients. However, current literature lacks an extensive comparison of cSCC clinical characteristics and outcomes in immunosuppressed patients.

Objectives

We compared cSCC tumour characteristics and disease‐related outcomes to help guide the clinical management of immunosuppressed patients.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective review of histopathologic and clinical data from 935 cSCC cases (19.5% immunosuppressed) from the Mayo Clinic.

Results

Immunosuppression was associated with younger age (69.3 vs. 74.8 years old, p < 0.0001), male gender (78.6% vs. 67.2%, p = 0.003), and higher grade cSCC tumour characterized by moderate or poor differentiation (25.7% vs. 15.8%, p = 0.009; 9.2% vs. 7.2%, p = 0.009, respectively). No significant differences were found in other tumour characteristics, including clinical tumour dimension, Brigham and Women's Hospital tumour staging or cumulative risk of metastasis and recurrence. Immunosuppressed patients had an increased risk of disease‐specific death on univariate analysis (hazard ratio [HR] [95% confidence interval, CI] 2.05 [1.13–3.74], p = 0.0128). Overall survival in the immunosuppressed population was worse (adjusted HR [95% CI] 1.83 [1.42–2.35], p < 0.001) and, notably, solid organ transplant recipients had the lowest overall survival when stratifying immunosuppressed patients by immunosuppression type (HR [95% CI] 1.62 [1.17–2.24], p < 0.0001).

Conclusions

In our study, immunosuppression status was predictive of poor differentiation of tumours and a reduction in overall and cSCC‐specific survival. Current staging systems for cSCC do not include immunosuppression as a risk factor and incorporating immune status may be beneficial for accurate risk stratification.
Cutaneous lymphangitic carcinomatosis from cervical cancer
Authors: Barquero‐Orias Daniel , Aguilar‐Aguilar Nelson , Martin‐Zamora Camila , Vargas‐Wille Maria F. , Gutiérrez‐Araya Daniel , Suarez‐Monge Rodolfo
Published: October 2023

We report a case of cutaneous lymphangitic carcinomatosis arising from cervical cancer in a 66‐year‐old woman. No standardized treatment protocol currently exists for cutaneous lymphangitic carcinomatosis; in our case, treatment with carboplatin and paclitaxel induced a positive clinical skin response, but the patient passed away from metastatic disease.
Avoiding mortality: timing prescribed burns in ornate box turtle habitat
Authors: Edmonds Devin A. , Bach Elizabeth M. , Colton Andrea L. , Jaquet Izabelle S. , Kessler Ethan J. , Dreslik Michael J.
Published: October 2023

Fire is a vital management tool for maintaining prairie ecosystems. Prescribed burns control invasive species, regulate succession, stimulate plant growth, and are a cheap and effective method for removing excess biomass; however, fire can also inadvertently cause wildlife mortality, placing land managers in a challenging situation. Turtles are especially at risk of mortality from fire because of their low mobility and population sensitivity to reductions in adult survival. We studied ornate box turtles (Terrapene ornata) at 3 sites in Illinois, USA, from 2019–2022 to determine the best predictors of above‐ground activity so land managers can conduct prescribed burns when turtles are underground. We used turtle shell temperature, air temperature, soil temperature, and precipitation data to develop a predictive model of above‐ground activity. The best model for predicting above‐ground activity included an interaction between day of year and current air temperature. Earlier in spring and later in fall, above‐ground activity is more likely at higher air temperatures compared to later in spring and earlier in fall when the same likelihood of above‐ground activity is predicted at lower air temperatures. In spring, we recommend burning in Illinois ornate box turtle habitat before 1 April when air temperature is <10°C and in fall after 1 November when air temperature is <15°C. Above these temperature thresholds, there is a >5% likelihood that turtles in northern populations are above ground.
Movement behavior and passive dispersal of a reintroduced population of alligator snapping turtles
Authors: Kessler Ethan J. , Dreslik Michael J.
Published: October 2023

Maladaptive movement behavior is a leading cause of failure for reptile reintroductions, thus characterizing movement for translocated populations is important to project success. From 2014–2016 we radio‐tracked 183 immature reintroduced alligator snapping turtles (Macrochelys temminckii) using very high frequency telemetry in a stream in southern Illinois, USA. We assessed environmental, temporal, morphometric, and microhabitat factors influencing movement, including post‐release dispersal from reintroduction sites, movement probability, and step length. We used directional statistics to investigate the effects of precipitation and age on directional movement in the stream. Numerous factors influenced active movement, including ambient temperatures, time since release, use of log jams, turtle size, and age. Precipitation had an age‐biased effect on movement. Directional analyses suggested that movement was largely passive as turtles were swept downstream with increased discharge. Overall, the behavior of reintroduced alligator snapping turtles was similar to that reported in wild populations. Passive downstream transport has implications for reintroduced and natural populations as a force for unintentional emigration in channelized streams under current conditions and future high flow regimes.
Modified painless photodynamic therapy for facial multiple actinic keratosis in China: A prospective split‐face control study
Authors: Li Jiandan , Zhang Yunfeng , Zhang Guolong , Zhang Linglin , Zhou Zhongxia , Wang Peiru , Wang Xiuli
Published: October 2023

Background

Aminolevulinic acid photodynamic therapy (ALA‐PDT) is an effective treatment for multiple actinic keratosis (AK). However, PDT‐induced pain often discontinues the therapy to reduce its efficacy, limiting its application. If modified painless PDT schedule with shorter photosensitizer dressing and higher dose illumination could achieve good efficacy in AK, it is still unknown.

Objectives

To explore the efficacy and pain tolerance of the modified painless PDT (M‐PDT) in facial multiple AK.

Methods

A split‐face controlled clinical study including 14 patients with facial multiple AK was conducted. The patients received conventional PDT (C‐PDT) on the left and M‐PDT in the contralateral area. The left area (C‐PDT) was illuminated by a red light‐emitting diode light (144 J/cm2) after applying the 10% ALA cream for 3 h; the other had illumination for a total light dose of 288 J/cm2 after applying the 10% ALA cream for 0.5 h. The primary endpoint was the lesion clearance rate at 1‐month postthree sessions of PDT. Secondary endpoints included pain scores, the incidence of adverse events during treatment, and cosmetic outcomes.

Results

At 1 month following three treatments, the total lesion clearance rate was comparable between M‐PDT and C‐PDT (91.6% vs. 89.0%). While the lesion clearance rate of M‐PDT was higher than that of C‐PDT in the Grade III lesions (86.5% vs. 72.0%, respectively) (p < 0.05). M‐PDT achieved a 100% lesion clearance rate for Grade I lesions earlier than C‐PDT, with M‐PDT treated twice and C‐PDT treated thrice. Moreover, the pain score during illumination was significantly lower for M‐PDT than for C‐PDT (p < 0.01). Regarding photoaging, the Global Subjective Skin Aging Assessment score showed that the total and atrophy scores of C‐PDT and M‐PDT were significantly improved, and M‐PDT also reduced discoloration. There was no significant difference in adverse reactions between C‐PDT and M‐PDT.

Conclusions

M‐PDT is comparable to C‐PDT's efficacy for treating facial multiple AK, resulting in much lower pain scores.
To be real or not to be real? The effect of genuine (vs. nongenuine) depictions of social media influencers on followers' well‐being and brand purchase intention
Authors: Claeys Pauline , Charry Karine , Tessitore Tina
Published: October 2023

Criticized for the idealized lives portrayed on social media (e.g., Instagram), a growing number of social media influencers are now embracing genuineness, showcasing unfiltered and less sophisticated pictures of themselves. The current research investigated this trend by examining how genuine (vs. nongenuine) visual self‐presentations by influencers affect their followers' purchase intention and, importantly, their well‐being. With an experiment (n = 171) and a quasi‐experiment with an ex‐post facto design (n = 154), we demonstrate that influencers' genuineness (vs. nongenuineness) not only benefits promoted brands but also followers' well‐being. Specifically, genuine (vs. nongenuine) influencers induce fewer upward comparisons, which, in turn, increases followers' self‐esteem, well‐being, and purchase intention. Investigating the role of gender, we show that, while males also tend to purchase more products when recommended by genuine (vs. nongenuine) male influencers, the mediating process through social comparison does not occur. Combining psychosocial and marketing perspectives, this study expands various streams of research on social media influencers and offers pragmatic contributions that reconcile managers, social media influencers, and public policymakers. More genuineness in pictures, using fewer filters and beauty artifices, provides benefits for all. Finally, we suggest future research directions as ways to further reconcile these two perspectives.
Effect of electron irradiation on alternating current electrical properties of gelatin – cadmium sulfide nano‐composite films
Authors: Shehata M. M. , Radwan S. I. , Abdel Samad S. , Al‐Abyad M. , El‐Khabeary H.
Published: October 2023

Gelatin was doped with 1 %, 3 %, 5 % and 10 % cadmium sulfide nanoparticles in weight concentrations forming the gelatin‐cadmium sulfide nanocomposites and irradiated by various electron beam doses equals 50 kGy, 75 kGy, 100 kGy, and 150 kGy using 3 MeV – 3 mA electron accelerator. The applied alternating current electrical field frequency ranging from 70 Hz to 5 MHz is what caused the fluctuation in dielectric properties and alternating current electrical conductivity of these nanocomposites. The results showed that the films of 1 %, 3 %, 5 %, and 10 % for blank (nanocomposite film without electron beam irradiation) nanocomposites had the highest dielectric parameters (έ, ϵ′′, tan δ) at 0.5 kHz with values of (0.696, 0.0233, 0.034), (0.533, 0.0114, 0.0215), (0.402, 0.001196, 0.003), and (0.459, 0.00418, 0.0091), respectively. However, the lowest dielectric parameters were (0.645, 0.00618, 0.0066), (0.523, 0.00165, 0.0215), (0.417, 0.00035, 0.0008), and (0.455, 0.00066, 0.0015) at 5 MHz, respectively. The highest conductivity values for blank nanocomposites of 1 %, 3 %, 5 %, and 10 % were 1.79×10−4 S/m, 1.45×10−4 S/m, 1.16×10−4 S/m, 1.27×10−4 S/m at 5 MHz, and the lowest values were 1.92×10−8 S/m, 1.49×10−8 S/m, 1.13×10−8 S/m, 1.26×10−8 S/m at 0.5 kHz, respectively. For irradiated nanocomposites at 5 MHz, the dielectric constant order for 1 % was 100 kGy, 150 kGy, 50 kGy, and 75 kGy with values 0.63, 0.537, 0.532, and 0.523, respectively. For 10 % weight concentration, the order was 50 kGy, 100 kGy, 150 kGy, and 75 kGy with values 0.515, 0.477, 0.47, and 0.437, respectively. Otherwise the dielectric constant order for 3 % and 5 % was 100 kGy, 75 kGy, 150 kGy, and 50 kGy. The highest dielectric properties and conductivity values for blank and irradiated nanocomposites were observed at 100 kGy for 1 %, 3 %, and 5 %.
Effect of deposition path of electron beam freeform fabrication on residual stress and deformation of deposited parts
Authors: Yan W. , Zhu S. , Li Z. , Huo S. , Feng J.
Published: October 2023

The present work focused on the effect of deposition path on the transient temperature distribution, heat transfer, residual deformation and residual stress of a rectangular solid deposited by electron beam freeform fabrication technology. To achieve this aim, three representative deposition paths were involved to produce rectangular solid by electron beam freeform fabrication technology. Thermal‐mechanical decoupling simulations were carried out with respect to three different deposition paths. Both of the experimental and simulation results showed that a shorter deposition track can remarkably reduce the residual stress and warping. After separating the deposition area into small segments, remarkable local bulges were formed near the conjunction lines, and overheating was prone to occur at the turning points of the conjunction lines. The present work is helpful to the selection of deposition path for additive manufacturing process.
Effects of aluminum additions on the microstructure and mechanical properties of alumina‐forming austenitic stainless steels
Authors: Sun S. , Liu H. , Zhou Z. , Tang R.
Published: October 2023

The mechanical properties, including tensile and impact properties at different testing temperatures of alumina‐forming austenitic steels (25 % nickel, 20 % chromium) with different aluminum contents (0, 2.5 %, 5 % and 8 %) were investigated. Scanning and transmission electron microscopy together with tensile and impact properties tests were conducted. The results showed that the tensile strength of steels at 298 K increased obviously along with aluminum contents increasing, while plasticity decreased at the same, which attributed to the higher volume fraction and number density of spherical NiAl precipitation together with main ferrite in matrix. In addition, spherical NiAl particles dispersed easily in ferrite. In particular, the ultimate tensile strength of the sample with 8 % aluminum could reach 1398 MPa, with the elongation of 14 % at 298 K. However, NiAl precipitations would lose strengthening effects at high temperatures, but the plasticity could be improved. In addition, the sample with 5 % aluminum showed better comprehensive properties by comparison to other samples, and the ultimate tensile strength was 1018 MPa and 491 MPa at 298 K and 973 K with the elongation of 26 % and 43 %, respectively, enabling it to be promising material for industrial application in advanced nuclear systems.
Influence of increased voltage on the nitriding zone during plasma nitriding
Authors: Kipp Christian , Kaestner P. , Bräuer G.
Published: October 2023

Plasma nitriding is an established process for increasing the corrosion and wear resistance of steel. However, the possibilities of modern developments in the field of high‐voltage plasma power supplies have been hardly investigated. For example, modern plasma generators allow improved arc management, which enable plasma nitriding at higher voltages.

In the present work, the influence of increased voltage (up to 800 V) on the nitriding of a ferritic steel X38CrMoV5‐1 was investigated. It was found that the thickness of the compound layer increases with increasing voltage. Especially at short process times the increased voltage leads to increased growth. An increase in the nitriding depth was also observed.

Furthermore, the increased voltage has an effect on the composition of the compound layer too. A moderate increase in ϵ‐nitride in the compound layer was observed.

One explanation for the observed behavior is the over proportional increase in power with increasing voltage, indicating an increased ionization rate of the plasma. Due to this, more diffusible species would be available for nitriding.

The presented results could be used to reduce process times, particularly where the formation of a compound layer is the aim of the process. An example of such a process is oxy‐nitriding.
Effects of foot orthoses and footwear interventions on impairments and quality of life in people with hip pain: A systematic review
Authors: Kinsella Rita , Nasser Anthony , Menz Hylton B. , Pizzari Tania , Collins Natalie J. , Semciw Adam I.
Published: October 2023

Background

Foot orthoses and footwear interventions are advocated for the management of lower limb musculoskeletal conditions including the hip, but much of the research is focused on knee disorders. The aim of this systematic review was to synthesise the literature that investigates the use of foot orthoses or footwear in people with hip‐related pain.

Methods

MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, AMED and SPORTDiscus were searched from inception to March 2023. Randomised controlled trials (RCT), cohort and pre‐post studies reporting on footwear and foot orthoses interventions, in participants with hip‐related pain, were eligible for inclusion. Outcomes included pain, physical function, and quality of life (QoL). Effect sizes were calculated where sufficient data were available. Reporting quality was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool (Rob‐2) and the Joanna Briggs Institute Checklist. The overall quality of evidence was rated according to the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluations framework.

Results

Of the seven included studies (n = 266 participants), there was one RCT, one cohort and five single‐group pre‐post designs. Interventions included customised and non‐customised arch supports, heel lifts, and footwear modifications, used in the following hip conditions: trochanteric pain, non‐specific hip pain, hip osteoarthritis, and leg length dysfunction following total hip arthroplasty. Meta‐analysis was possible for outcomes in two studies, demonstrating moderate improvement in pain following foot orthoses use. Overall certainty of evidence ranged from very low to low.

Conclusion

Single‐group pre‐post study designs describe positive relationships between foot orthoses and footwear use and improvements in hip pain, function, and QoL. However, these results were not supported by the only available RCT. Given this is a relatively inexpensive and non‐invasive treatment approach, further rigorous studies are warranted.
Quality‐of‐life assessment instruments used across ALS clinics
Authors: Mehta Ambereen K. , Sarmet Max , Maiser Samuel , Meyer Jenny A. , Kolodziejczak Sherry , Washington Karla , Simmons Zachary
Published: October 2023

Introduction/Aims

Instruments have been developed to assess quality of life (QoL) among people with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). It is unclear whether these are utilized regularly in the clinical setting to guide individual patient care. In this study we aimed to understand the current use of instruments and existing barriers to assessing QoL in clinical ALS care.

Methods

An anonymous survey developed by Northeast ALS (NEALS) Consortium Palliative Committee members was distributed to all multidisciplinary NEALS members. Data were summarized via calculation of descriptive statistics. ALS Center characteristics were compared using chi‐square and Fisher exact tests for categorical variables.

Results

Seventy‐three (6.4%) of the 1132 NEALS members responded to the survey, representing 148 clinics, 49.3% of whom reported assessing QoL during clinic visits. The most used ALS‐specific instruments were the ALS Assessment Questionnaire (19.4%) and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Specific Quality of Life scale (16.6%). Barriers reported were uncertainty regarding which instrument to use and length of visits. QoL assessment was not significantly correlated with length of clinic visit but with access to specialty palliative care.

Discussion

QoL assessments are performed by some, but not all, ALS centers during clinical visits. Although this study did have a low number of responding centers, the percentage, the proportion is similar to that seen in earlier studies, which limits the findings' generalizability. The value of QoL assessments' impact on outcomes should be further investigated and, if warranted, creative ways sought to increase the frequency of their use, including patient self‐assessments before clinic and/or the use of teleheath to reduce the length of clinic visits.
Cutoff values for appendicular skeletal muscle mass using dual‐energy x‐ray absorptiometry in a reference group of Turkish adults
Authors: Dikmeer Ayse , Unsal Pelin , Burkuk Suna , Ozturk Yelda , Koca Meltem , Guclu Simay , Balci Cafer , Dogu Burcu B. , Cankurtaran Mustafa , Akata Deniz , Halil Meltem
Published: October 2023

Background

The aim of this study is to determine cutoff values for different appendicular skeletal muscle mass index (ASMI) methods measured by dual‐energy x‐ray absorptiometry (DXA) in a reference group of the Turkish population.

Methods

Body composition analyses were performed with DXA, and appendicular skeletal muscle mass (ASM) was adjusted to body size as ASMI using height squared (ASM/ht2), weight (ASM/wt), and body mass index (BMI) (ASM/BMI). Sex‐specific cutoff values were obtained as 1 and 2 standard deviations (SDs) below the mean values of ASM/ht2, ASM/wt, and ASM/BMI.

Results

A total of 207 (106 women and 101 men) healthy adults were enrolled. Sex‐specific cutoff values based on 1 SD below the mean values of ASM, ASM/ht2, ASM/BMI, and ASM/wt were 14.44, 5.45, 0.61, and 24.07 in women and 22.63, 7.22, 0.90, and 29.04 in men, respectively; 2 SDs below the mean values of ASM, ASM/ht2, ASM/BMI, and ASM/wt were 11.96, 4.65, 0.51, and 21.75 in women and 19.26, 6.40, 0.78, and 26.55 in men, respectively. ASM, ASM/BMI, ASM/ht2, and ASM/wt were statistically significant positively correlated with handgrip strength (r = 0.81, r = 0.78, r = 0.73, and r = 0.67, respectively; P < 0.001).

Conclusion

In this study, ASM/BMI was found to be the most suitable ASM adjustment method to predict muscle strength.
Exploring the effect of music therapy as intervention to reduce anxiety pre‐ and post‐operatively in CABG surgery: A quantitative systematic review
Authors: Wu Lan , Yao Yongbo
Published: October 2023

Aim

Patients undergoing coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery may experience psychological complications, which can increase mortality. This review aims to explore the efficacy of music therapy as an intervention to reduce anxiety pre‐ and post‐operatively in CABG surgery.

Design

This was a quantitative systematic review registered in PROSPERO (REDACTED).

Methods

This review used the PECOD framework to identify quantitative questions. We systematically searched seven electronic databases (Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, CINAHL, MEDLINE, PubMed, Embase, PsycArticles, and PsycInfo) for articles published between 1 January 1992 and 13 July 2022. Studies were critically appraised, and the results of this systematic review yielded a narrative summary of the findings.

Results

Four randomized control trials and one quasi‐experimental study published in English were included in the review. Narrative analysis indicated that patients undergoing CABG who were assigned to the group receiving music therapy reported significantly reduced anxiety levels compared with controls who did not listen to music. In addition, music therapy can effectively be used as a non‐pharmacological intervention to manage anxiety pre‐ and post‐operatively in CABG surgery.

No members of the public or patients were involved in the design or conduct of the study.
Code verification of non‐linear immersed boundary simulations using the method of manufactured solutions
Authors: Petö Márton , Juhre Daniel , Eisenträger Sascha
Published: October 2023

Non‐standard finite element technologies, such as immersed boundary approaches, are typically based on novel algorithms and advanced methods, which require reliable testing of the implemented code. For this purpose, the method of manufactured solutions (MoMS) offers a great framework, enabling an easy and straightforward derivation of closed‐form reference solutions. In this contribution, the focus is kept on non‐linear analysis via the finite cell method (FCM), which is typically based on an unfitted geometry discretization and higher‐order shape functions. The code verification via MoMS generally requires the application of boundary conditions to all boundaries of the simulation domain, which need to be enforced in a weak sense on the immersed boundaries. To avoid this, we propose a novel way of deriving manufactured solutions, for which the necessary constraints on the embedded boundaries are directly fulfilled. Thus, weak boundary conditions can be eliminated from the FCM simulation, and the simulation complexity is reduced when testing other relevant features of the immersed code. In particular, we focus on finite strain analysis of 3D structures with a Neo‐Hookean material model, and show that the proposed technique enables a reliable code verification approach for all load steps throughout the deformation process.
Polysaccharides based biopolymers for biomedical applications: A review
Authors: Jabeen Nazish , Atif Muhammad
Published: October 2023

Polysaccharides are a class of natural biopolymers that have attracted significant attention due to their unique properties, which make them attractive for use in a wide range of applications. These biopolymers have an important role in our daily life, and designing biomaterials for biomedical applications requires careful consideration of factors such as biocompatibility, biodegradability, renewability, affordability, and availability, all of which can be achieved with polysaccharides. This review paper focuses on the use of polysaccharides in biomedical applications and provides an in‐depth analysis of the potential applications of arabinoxylan, a type of hemicellulose, in various fields, including drug delivery, infection control, tissue engineering, wound healing, and others. Arabinoxylan, which is derived from plants, is the most abundant and important class of hemicellulose and has a diverse role as a catalyst due to its biodegradability, biocompatibility, and renewable nature. Polysaccharide‐based biopolymers have applications in tissue engineering, wound covers, drug delivery systems, food preservation, and biocomposite films, making them an emerging excipient in pharmaceutical research. This review paper highlights the potential of polysaccharide‐based biopolymers in biomedical science and suggests that continued research and development will lead to broader and more innovative applications in the field. The use of polysaccharide‐based biopolymers has the potential to significantly advance healthcare and improve patient outcomes.
Extraction of microfibrillated cellulose from elephant egesta and evaluating its reinforcing ability in pectin/alginate packaging films
Authors: Varughese Steffy Annie , Gokul S. , Keerthi P.
Published: October 2023

Pectin and sodium alginate (SA) composite films were prepared by adding various concentrations of microfibrillated cellulose (MFC) via solvent casting using glycerol as a plasticizer. Herein, elephant egesta was turned into cellulose fibers from which MFC was extracted. This paper aims to examine the reinforcing property of MFC on the pectin/SA matrix. Fibrous morphology, qualitative analysis, crystallinity, and thermal stability of MFC were confirmed through SEM, FT‐IR, XRD, and TGA‐DTA analysis, respectively. The impact of various compositions of MFC (0.5%, 1%, 2%, and 5%) on the biopolymeric blend was analyzed based on mechanical and optical properties, hygroscopicity, and hydrophilicity. The outcomes revealed that adding MFC to 5% enhances the film's tensile strength by 51%. The produced film also served as a successful barrier against UV–visible light. Moreover, it exhibits a tremendous increase in contact angle and a decrease in properties such as elongation at break, moisture content (MC) and water solubility (WS). Therefore, MFC can be an excellent reinforcing agent in biodegradable polymer composites, which finds application in the food packaging industry.

Highlights

Microfibrillated cellulose was successfully extracted from elephant egesta and characterized.

Energy efficient method of extraction.

Pectin/SA films were incorporated with the extracted MFC via solvent casting.

Prepared films show enhanced tensile strength and UV–visible barrier property which makes them suitable for packaging purposes.

Bio‐based polymers reduce environmental pollution.
Quantitative X‐ray scattering and reflectivity measurements of polymer thin films with 2D detectors
Authors: Hu Mingqiu , Gan Xuchen , Chen Zhan , Seong Hong‐Gyu , Emrick Todd , Russell Thomas P.
Published: October 2023

We describe a fully open‐sourced Python package to process raw X‐ray scattering data using a GANESHA SAXSLAB facility, and review in this manuscript the connection of X‐ray scattering theories with the open‐sourced package. This package affords researchers more flexibility in analyzing and visualizing X‐ray scattering and reflectivity data from what is now a commonplace facility at many universities and research laboratories engaged in polymer research. We briefly review the applications of X‐ray scattering and diffraction, followed by the scattering theories. A pedagogical introduction to processing X‐ray scattering data is provided using the modules in the Python package. We compare conventions to visualize and interpret transmission and grazing‐incidence scattering data using self‐assembled lamellar morphology of bottlebrush copolymers as an example, then describe how area detectors measure specular and off‐specular reflectivity. Examples of in‐house reflectivity and grazing incidence scattering for the metrological examination of a grating are provided, where the full pitch and pitch height of a line pattern is measured easily without needing to simulate the full scattering intensity profile.
Mechanism of foraging selections regulated by gustatory receptor 43a in Ostrinia furnacalis larvae
Authors: Shi Jian , He Lei , Du Juan , Wang Chen‐Zhu , Zhao Zhangwu
Published: October 2023

BACKGROUND

Omnivores, including humans, have an inborn tendency to avoid risky or non‐nutritious foods. However, relatively little is known about how animals perceive and discriminate nutritious foods from risky substances. In this study, we explored the mechanism of feeding selection in Ostrinia furnacalis larvae, one of the most destructive pests to the maize crop.

RESULTS

We identified a gustatory receptor, Gr43a, for feeding regulation in larvae of Ostrinia furnacalis, which highly expresses in the mouthparts of the first‐ (the period of just hatching out from eggs) and fifth‐instar larvae (the period of gluttony). The Gr43a regulates foraging plasticity by discriminating sorbitol, a nonsweet nutritious substance, and sucralose, a sweet non‐nutritious substance through the labra of mouthparts, while it differentiates fructose/sucrose and sucralose via the sensilla styloconica of mouthparts. Specially, Gr43a responds to fructose and sucrose via the medial and lateral sensilla styloconica in O. furnacalis, respectively. Furthermore, Gr43a is negatively regulated by the neuropeptide F system, a homologous mammalian neuropeptide Y system.

CONCLUSION

This study reveals a smart feeding strategy for animals to meet both nutritional needs and sweet gratification, and offers an insight into complex feeding selections dependent on food resources in the surrounding environment. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Repellent effect of two anthranilates against the tropical bed bug Cimex hemipterus (Hemiptera: Cimicidae) demonstrated in laboratory assays
Authors: Zhang Jingsheng , Xia Yanwei , Liang Jiayong , Wang Changlu , Qiu Hualong , He Yurong , Ma Tao , Wang Lei , Wang Desen
Published: October 2023

BACKGROUND

The bites and blood sucking of bed bugs (Cimex spp.) (Hemiptera: Cimicidae) pose a serious threat to human physical and mental health. Application of an effective repellent can prevent or reduce bed bug bites. Previous studies on repellent screening mainly focused on Cimex lectularius L. In this study, we investigated the repellent effect of two safe food additives, ethyl anthranilate (EA) and butyl anthranilate (BA), against Cimex hemipterus (F.), and also explored the role of antennae and mouthparts on C. hemipterus perception of repellents.

RESULTS

Both EA and BA had a strong repellent effect against tropical bed bugs and their repellency was similar or lower than that of N,N‐diethyl‐3‐methyl benzoyl amide, depending on whether or not a CO2 source was present. EA had higher repellency than BA and exhibited repellency to C. hemipterus for 3 days when a CO2 source was present. C. hemipterus avoided resting on 20% EA‐ and BA‐treated harborages. Applying 20% EA and BA on rabbit skin significantly reduced the blood intake of C. hemipterus within 2 h. C. hemipterus could perceive EA and BA after their antennae or mouthparts or both antennae and mouthparts were removed.

CONCLUSION

Both EA and BA had strong repellency against C. hemipterus, with EA being more repellent. Ablation of antennae and mouthparts did not affect the perception of EA and BA by C. hemipterus. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Ursolic acid alleviates chronic prostatitis via regulating NLRP3 inflammasome‐mediated Caspase‐1/GSDMD pyroptosis pathway
Authors: Liu Sheng‐jing , Guo Bo‐da , Gao Qing‐he , Deng Ying‐jun , Yan Bin , Zeng Yin , Zhao Ming , Ren Kai , Wang Fu , Guo Jun
Published: October 2023

Ursolic acid (UA) is a naturally occurring pentacyclic triterpenoid widely found in fruits and vegetables. It has been reported that UA has anti‐inflammatory effects. However, its efficacy and mechanism of action in the treatment of chronic prostatitis (CP) remain unclear. This study aimed to investigate the efficacy of UA treatment in CP and further explore the underlying mechanism. CP rat and pyroptosis cell models were established in vivo and in vitro, respectively. The efficacy of UA in inhibiting CP was evaluated via haematoxylin‐eosin (HE) staining and measurement of inflammatory cytokines. RNA sequencing and molecular docking were used to predict the therapeutic targets of UA in CP. The expression of pyroptosis‐related proteins was examined using various techniques, including immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, and flow cytometry. UA significantly ameliorated pathological damage and reduced the levels of proinflammatory cytokines in the CP model rats. RNA sequencing analysis and molecular docking suggested that NLRP3, Caspase‐1, and GSDMD may be key targets. We also found that UA decreased ROS levels, alleviated oxidative stress, and inhibited p‐NF‐κB protein expression both in vivo and in vitro. UA improved pyroptosis morphology as indicated by electron microscope and inhibited the expression of the pyroptosis‐related proteins NLRP3, Caspase‐1, ASC, and GSDMD, reversed the levels of IL‐1β, IL‐18, and lactate dehydrogenase in vivo and in vitro. UA can mitigate CP by regulating the NLRP3 inflammasome‐mediated Caspase‐1/GSDMD pathway. Therefore, UA may be a potential for the treatment of CP.
Pulmonary hemodynamics and transplant‐free survival in sarcoidosis‐associated pulmonary hypertension: Results from an international registry
Authors: Gayen Shameek K. , Baughman Robert P. , Nathan Steven D. , Wells Athol U. , Kouranos Vasilis , Alhamad Esam H. , Culver Daniel A. , Barney Joseph , Carmoma Eva M. , Cordova Francis C. , Huitema Marloes , Scholand Mary Beth , Wijsenbeek Marlies , Ganesh Sivagini , Birring Surinder S. , Price Laura C. , Wort Stephen J. , Shlobin Oksana A. , Gupta Rohit
Published: October 2023

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a risk factor for mortality in patients with sarcoidosis. Severe PH in chronic lung disease has previously been defined as mean pulmonary arterial pressure (mPAP) ≥ 35 mmHg or mPAP 25 ≥ mmHg with cardiac index (CI) ≤ 2 L/min/m2. However, there is no clear definition denoting severity of sarcoidosis‐associated PH (SAPH). We aimed to determine pulmonary hemodynamic cut‐off values where transplant‐free survival was worse among patients with SAPH. This was a retrospective cohort analysis of the Registry of SAPH database focusing on pulmonary hemodynamic predictors of transplant‐free survival among patients with precapillary SAPH. Cox regression was performed to determine which pulmonary hemodynamic values predicted death or lung transplantation. Kaplan−Meier survival analysis was performed on statistically significant predictors to determine pulmonary hemodynamic cut‐off values where transplant‐free survival was decreased. Decreased transplant‐free survival occurred among SAPH patients with mPAP ≥ 40 mmHg and SAPH patients with pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) ≥ 5 Woods units (WU). Transplant‐free survival was not decreased in patients who fulfilled prior criteria of severe PH in chronic lung disease. We identified new cut‐offs with decreased transplant‐free survival in the SAPH population. Neither cut‐off of mPAP ≥ 40 mmHg nor PVR ≥ 5 WU has previously been shown to be associated with decreased transplant‐free survival in SAPH. These values could suggest a new definition of severe SAPH. Our PVR findings are in line with the most recent European Society of Cardiology/European Respiratory Society guideline definition of severe PH in chronic lung disease.
Enhanced Entanglement and Quantum Steering Induced by a Common Reservoir in Cavity Magnomechanics
Authors: Dong Ting‐Ting , Wang Nan , Li Shi‐Yan , Zhu Ai‐Dong , Zhang Da‐Wei
Published: October 2023

This study proposes to enhance entanglement and control quantum steering via dissipative coupling in an open cavity magnomechanical system connected to a common reservoir shared by photon and magnon modes. In such a system, dissipative coupling induced by the common reservoir plays a crucial role in producing entanglements and quantum steering. The photon‐magnon‐phonon tripartite entanglement is significantly enhanced, exhibiting periodic sudden death and resurgence with the relative phase between coherent and dissipative couplings. It is revealed that the collaboration between dissipative and coherent couplings can produce entanglement and steering even in the absence of nonlinearity within the system. Moreover, the steering directivity can be controlled by adjusting the dissipative coupling strength and the relative phase. These findings are counterintuitive in terms of dissipation, which provides a novel approach for preparing quantum entanglement and manipulating quantum steering in an open system.
Design and analysis of event‐triggered predictive sliding mode control for discrete‐time constrained system
Authors: Meng Huan , Zhang Jinhui , Li Sihang
Published: October 2023

This paper presents a new approach for designing an event‐triggered predictive sliding mode control (SMC) for discrete‐time systems subject to constraints. The proposed controller is based on an existing reach‐law‐based SMC, and it formulates an optimization control problem (OCP) to generate predictive control actions that satisfy both state and input constraints. An event‐triggered strategy is introduced to reduce the frequency of OCP solving by taking into account the sliding mode controller and unmeasurable states between sampling instants. The paper also analyzes the recursive feasibility of the proposed controller, which ensures the feasibility of each OCP solution. Numerical simulations and comparison studies are performed to validate the theoretical results. The proposed approach offers an effective way to design event‐triggered predictive sliding mode controllers that reduce the computational burden of OCP solving while guaranteeing the satisfaction of system constraints.
Co Ion‐, NiS2‐ and CNT‐Co‐Doped Nanoflower/Hollow Spherical NiO Nanocomposites for Efficient Electrocatalytic Oxidation of Methanol
Authors: Yu Yongchang , Zhang Chang , Long Anchun , Ge Xianlong , Song Yankai , Meng Minfeng , Hu Shaohua , Gu Yingying
Published: October 2023

Nowadays, the development and utilization of clean energy are becoming increasingly urgent. Among them, methanol is a new, clean, and efficient energy source. Therefore, more and more studies are focusing on methanol anodic oxidation (MOR). In this work, nanoflower and hollow spherical NiO was synthesized by a simply hydrothermal method and then modified by Co ion, NiS2 and carbon nanotubes (CNTs). The optimal Co/NiO(f)/NiS2−CNT exhibits flower‐like morphology with a larger specific surface area, enlarged electrochemically active surface area and higher conductivity, which improve the electron transfer ability and electrocatalytic activity compared with pure NiO(f), NiO(f)/NiS2, NiO(f)/NiS2−CNT and hollow spherical Co/NiO(hs)/NiS2−CNT. The current density is ultrahigh of 203.46 mA ⋅ cm−2 at 0.8 V, which is 36 times higher than pure NiO(f) and almost 2 times higher than Co/NiO(hs)/NiS2−CNT. Therefore, this work offers a highly efficient and stable NiO based catalyst for methanol oxidation reaction.
Applications of Highly Stable Silver Nanoparticles from Garcinia mangostana Pericarp Extract: Bioactivities, Catalysis, and Optical Sensing
Authors: Nam Nguyen Thanh Hoai , Linh Nguyen Thi Thuy , Dat Nguyen Minh , Bao Pham Phi , Tinh Ninh Thi , Cong Che Quang , Hai Nguyen Duy , Giang Nguyen Thi Huong , Phong Mai Thanh , Hieu Nguyen Huu
Published: October 2023

In this work, the Garcinia mangostana pericarp aqueous extract was utilized as an efficient reducing agent for the phyto‐synthesis of eco‐friendly silver nanoparticles (GM/AgNPs (GMAs)). Characterization of the as‐synthesized material revealed the optimal synthesis conditions of 1 mL of the extract, 1.6 mL of AgNO3, and 1 mL of pH 10 buffer solution at 70 °C for 30 min of reaction. The formation and distribution of quasi‐spherical silver nanoparticles were elucidated with an average particle size of 22.12±1.106 nm, whilst the colloidal system of GMAs also possessed a negative surface charge (−25.4 mV) with such low particle instability parameters (PIP), signifying great stability even after 8 weeks. Furthermore, the material demonstrated excellent bioactivities, wherein a good inhibitory was acquired towards both P. aeruginosa and S. aureus. Besides, the synthesized GMAs provided great catalytic reduction performances, which removed 98.75, 96.55, and 90.85 % of RhB, MO, and 4‐NP, respectively, within 120 s. Along with a low detection limit for surveyed heavy metal ions as well as H2O2 in specific concentration ranges, the phyto‐synthesized GMAs can be efficaciously employed in a wide range of environmental applications, namely in the medical and wastewater remediation sectors.
One‐Pot Synthesis of β‐Ketoesters from Aryl Methyl Ketone via Ketene Dithioacetal
Authors: Giri Nand Gopal , Althagafi Ismail , Ghatak Trisha , Pratap Ramendra
Published: October 2023

We have discovered base‐mediated conversion of 3,3‐bis(methylthio)‐1‐arylprop‐2‐en‐1‐ones to versatile active methylene compounds (β‐keto esters). A series of products were isolated and characterized as a mixture of keto‐enol form. We have modified the method and synthesized the active methylene compounds (β‐keto esters) directly from aryl methyl ketone via ketene dithioacetal intermediate (not isolated) by stepwise reactions in one pot. Most of the one‐pot reactions also provided excellent yields. In addition to aryl methyl ketones, we also tested cyclopropyl methyl ketone as a source of an aliphatic ketone, and under similar reaction conditions, ethyl 3‐cyclopropyl‐3‐oxopropanoate was afforded.