bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Type of Stable Amides Behaves as Acyl Transfer Reagents upon Visible‐Light Irradiation through Self‐Aromatization
Authors: Xiong Wenzhang , Lai Guoyin , Liu Wenbo H.
Published: May 2024

Organic molecules with light‐modifiable reactivity are important in many fields because they can serve as the “switch” for light to trigger chemical processes. Herein, we disclose a new type of stable non‐twisted amides, the reactivity of which can be turned on by light as acyl transfer reagents. Upon photo‐activation, these amides react with various nucleophiles including amines, phenols, hydroxide, thiols, boronic acids, and alkynes either under metal‐free or metal‐catalysis conditions. This reactivity hinges on the design and synthesis of a photo‐activatable reagent (7‐nitro‐5,6‐dihydrophenanthridine), which undergoes self‐aromatization enabled by an internal oxidant under light. This masked acyl donor group is anticipated to be useful in scenarios where light is preferred to trigger a chemical process.
Desorption of rare earth elements biosorbed on Euglena mutabilis suspensions and biofilms
Authors: Zak Mitchell T. E. , Carunungan Nicolas A. R. , Papangelakis Vladimiros G. , Allen D. Grant
Published: May 2024

Increasing demand for rare earth elements (REEs) has stimulated research on novel recovery methods from sources like industrial effluents. Our recent study demonstrated that algal biofilms are good candidates for the adsorption of REEs and that the extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) within the biofilm were a key accumulator of REEs. In this work, we measured the desorption kinetics, extents, and selectivity of REEs from the algae Euglena mutabilis in suspensions and biofilms using aqueous solutions of HCl at pH between 1.5 and 4, and Na2EDTA at pH 5. We examined the potential for reusing suspended and biofilm biomass for repeated adsorption–desorption cycles. The desorption kinetics were similar for suspensions and biofilms, with equilibrium being reached within 20 min. The extent of desorption was higher in biofilms with 86% and 95% desorption, compared to suspensions which had 72% and 74% desorption using HCl and Na2EDTA, respectively. We postulate that the difference between suspensions and biofilms is attributed to the binding sites in the EPS matrix of the biofilm being more readily protonated than those at the algal cell wall surface. Heavy REEs were found to preferentially desorb at pH 4 over lighter REEs. After 3 repeated adsorption–desorption cycles, the adsorption capacity of biofilms increased by 280% and 80% using HCl and Na2EDTA, respectively, compared to an 80% decrease in biosorption capacity for the suspension. The increase in biofilm biosorption capacity was attributed to the simultaneous desorption of divalent cations alongside REEs from the EPS increasing the number of available binding sites.
Growth‐induced collective bending and kinetic trapping of cytoskeletal filaments
Authors: Banerjee Deb Sankar , Freedman Simon L. , Murrell Michael P. , Banerjee Shiladitya
Published: May 2024

Growth and turnover of actin filaments play a crucial role in the construction and maintenance of actin networks within cells. Actin filament growth occurs within limited space and finite subunit resources in the actin cortex. To understand how filament growth shapes the emergent architecture of actin networks, we developed a minimal agent‐based model coupling filament mechanics and growth in a limiting subunit pool. We find that rapid filament growth induces kinetic trapping of highly bent actin filaments. Such collective bending patterns are long‐lived, organized around nematic defects, and arise from competition between filament polymerization and bending elasticity. The stability of nematic defects and the extent of kinetic trapping are amplified by an increase in the abundance of the actin pool and by crosslinking the network. These findings suggest that kinetic trapping is a robust consequence of growth in crowded environments, providing a route to program shape memory in actin networks.
The efficacy and tolerability of bortezomib, thalidomide, and dexamethasone induction therapy with a thalidomide dose step‐up strategy in patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma: A prospective observational study
Authors: Liao Po‐Wei , Lu Hsueh‐Ju , Chen Tsung‐Chih , Lin Hsin‐Chen , Shih Yu‐Hsuan , Teng Chieh‐Lin Jerry
Published: May 2024

Background

Thalidomide‐containing regimens cause adverse events (AEs) that may require a reduction in treatment intensity or even treatment discontinuation in patients with multiple myeloma. As thalidomide toxicity is dose‐dependent, identifying the most appropriate dose for each patient is essential.

Aims

This study aimed to investigate the effects of a thalidomide dose step‐up strategy on treatment response and progression‐free survival (PFS).

Methods and Results

This prospective observational study included 93 patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (NDMM) who received bortezomib, thalidomide, and dexamethasone (VTD). The present study assessed the incidence of thalidomide dose reduction and discontinuation, the overall dose intensity, and their effects on therapeutic efficacy. Furthermore, this study used Cox proportional hazard models to analyze the factors contributing to thalidomide intolerability. The results showed the overall response rates in all patients and the evaluable patients were 78.5% and 98.7%, respectively. The median PFS in the study cohort was not reached. The most common thalidomide‐related AEs were constipation (32.3%) and skin rash (23.7%), resulting in dose reduction and discontinuation rates of 22.6% and 21.5%, respectively. The responders had a significantly higher average thalidomide dose intensity than the nonresponders (88.6% vs. 42.9%, p < .001).

Conclusion

The thalidomide dose step‐up approach is a viable option for patients with NDMM receiving VTD induction therapy with satisfactory efficacy and tolerability. However, thalidomide intolerance may lead to dose reduction or discontinuation due to unpredictable AEs, leading to lower dose intensity and potentially inferior treatment outcomes. In addition to a dose step‐up strategy, optimal supportive care is critical for patients with multiple myeloma receiving VTD induction therapy.
Radial Behavior of Electrostatic Potentials of Atoms and Ions Revisited: Isotropy and Anisotropy
Authors: Ramasami Ponnadurai , Murray Jane S.
Published: May 2024

In this paper we revisit earlier work relating to monoatomic atoms and ions published by pioneers in the area of electrostatic potentials. We include plots of the radial distributions of the electrostatic potentials for spherically symmetric atoms and cations, and for singly, doubly and triply negative anions. For atoms with anisotropy in their densities and electrostatic potentials, such as the halonium cations, it is shown how the molecular surface approach for plotting electrostatic potentials complements that achieved by directional radial distributions.
Switching of Circularly Polarized Luminescence via Dynamic Axial Chirality Control of Chiral Bis(Boron Difluoride) Complexes with Salen Ligands
Authors: Ikeshita Masahiro , Kuroda Ayumu , Suzuki Seika , Imai Yoshitane , Tsuno Takashi
Published: May 2024

The intensity and handedness of circularly polarized luminescence (CPL) were successfully controlled by dynamic molecular motion in solutions. Bis(boron difluoride) complexes with chiral salen ligands were synthesized and their photophysical properties were investigated. Although these complexes showed rapid molecular rotation about the C−N bond axis in solution at room temperature, two conformers assigned as atropisomers were observed in the NMR spectra at low temperature. Furthermore, the equilibrium of these atropisomers was found to change depending on the external environment, such as the solvent and temperature, allowing precise control of the intensity and handedness of CPL without luminescence color shifts. Theoretical calculations based on density functional theory (DFT) revealed that intramolecular chiral exciton coupling is the key to changes in CPL properties.
Analysing green interpersonal citizenship behaviour as a mediator between green HRM and green outcomes: A study of manufacturing units
Authors: Kaur Harleen , Gupta Ragini
Published: May 2024

Using an integrated approach grounded on the theories of AMO (Ability‐Motivation‐Opportunity), RBV (Resource‐Based View), and Social Learning, the present study aims to assess the mediating role of Green Interpersonal Citizenship Behaviour (GICB) between Green HRM and Green Outcomes. The data was gathered from 371 manufacturing unit employees in India's Jammu region of UT of J&K using a cross‐sectional study approach. The sample size was depicted using G* power software. The model was tested using PLS‐SEM 4.0, (Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling). According to the results of the survey, these green HRM strategies are highly associated to producing environmentally friendly results, which in turn lead to sustainability. Industrial organisations that want to improve their environmental performance might use the model as a guide. Positive green results may result from a combination of environmentally friendly techniques and green behaviour adopted by employees.
A terahertz power combining frequency multiplier source based on waveguide magic‐T divider
Authors: Wang Li , Meng Jin , Wei Haomiao , Zhang Dehai
Published: May 2024

This paper proposes a high‐power solid‐state power combining frequency multiplier source based on a waveguide magic‐T divider. The magic‐T has the merits of high isolation and reliability compared to conventional Y/T junction power dividers and wider bandwidth compared to 3 dB couplers. In the waveguide magic‐T, a two‐stage cuboid ridge is employed to reduce the difference‐port reflection and act as a matching element for the improved isolation port. Furthermore, two bent waveguides are connected with the output port of the magic‐T, which can achieve phase congruence. The reliability of the solid‐state power combining multiplier can be enhanced by this low‐loss, high‐isolation power divider. Moreover, the divider also facilitates the realization of a high‐power frequency multiplier. Measured results show that the multiplier has a maximum output power of 90.3 mW at 178 GHz with an input power of 448 mW.
Rainfall partitioning characteristics by two sand‐binding shrubs and their impact on shallow soil moisture replenishment in the Northwestern desert steppe of China
Authors: Chen Xiaoying , Chen Lin , Yang Xinguo , Li Minlan , Yu Dian , Song Naiping
Published: May 2024

Rainfall partitioning by the vegetation canopy into stemflow (SF) and throughfall (TF) plays a crucial role in soil infiltration and the local water balance. This study aims to quantify the differences in SF and TF between two sand‐binding shrubs, Caragana liouana and Salix psammophila, in the desert steppe, clarify the effects of biotic and abiotic factors on them using the boosted regression trees (BRT) model, and compare soil moisture replenishment during the growing seasons of 2021 and 2022. Under identical rainfall conditions, the canopies of C. liouana and S. psammophila can lead to differences in rainfall partitioning. The SF percentage ranged from 0 to 23.70% for C. liouana and from 0% to 3.3% for S. psammophila, respectively, while the TF percentage ranged from 42.12% to 90.07% for C. liouana and from 52.39% to 94.87% for S. psammophila. The funnelling ratio for C. liouana (69.59) is 1.19 times higher than for S. psammophila (58.36). Rainfall amount is the primary variable affecting rainfall partitioning. The average soil moisture replenishment and soil moisture conversion efficiency under the C. liouana canopy are 11.02 mm and 58.39%, respectively, which are significantly higher than those for S. psammophila (4.84 mm and 24.33%, respectively). These findings suggest that C. liouana, with its relatively higher SF and soil moisture conversion capability compared to S. psammophila, plays a significant ecohydrological role in water‐limited ecosystems. This study provides a reference for species selection and ecological management in vegetation restoration efforts in desert steppes and similar regions.
I still call Australia home: Satellite telemetry informs the protection of flatback turtles in Western Australian waters
Authors: Peel Lauren R. , Whiting Scott D. , Pendoley Kellie , Whittock Paul A. , Ferreira Luciana C. , Thums Michele , Whiting Andrea U. , Tucker Anton D. , Rossendell Jason , McFarlane Glenn , Fossette Sabrina
Published: May 2024

Flatback turtles (Natator depressus) are endemic to northern Australia, but their movements at sea have remained understudied. Here, we compiled one of the world's largest single‐species satellite tracking datasets (n = 280 transmitters, deployed between 2005 and 2020) to investigate the movements and level of spatial protection afforded to five flatback genetic stocks across Western Australia during different behavioral phases (i.e., inter‐nesting, migration, and foraging). Flatbacks spent 99.5% of their time in Australian waters and are provided with a very high level of spatial protection (>98% overlap with Biologically Important Areas) during the inter‐nesting phase of their life cycle. Up to 85.6% and 59.1% overlap between marine reserves and the foraging and migratory ranges for flatback stocks, respectively, was found. However, our results identified additional foraging and migratory areas where protective measures would benefit multiple stocks at once. The detailed flatback distribution maps produced here will be key resources for managers and researchers and highlight the benefits of collaborative multi‐agency studies. Additionally, this work provides a useful analytical framework for future studies endeavoring to complete large‐scale, multi‐stock spatial distributions and overlap assessments for populations of conservation concern.
Association of point‐of‐care testing for sST2 with clinical outcomes in patients hospitalized with heart failure
Authors: Chen Yuyi , Guan Jingyuan , Qi Chen , Wu Yihang , Wang Jing , Zhao Xuemei , Li Xinqing , He Chunhui , Zhang Jian , Zhang Yuhui
Published: May 2024

Aims

This study aimed to investigate the association of soluble suppression of tumorigenicity‐2 (sST2) measured by point‐of‐care testing assay with clinical outcomes in patients hospitalized with heart failure after adjusting for other predictors including N‐terminal pro‐B‐type natriuretic peptide (NT‐proBNP) and high‐sensitivity cardiac troponin T (hs‐cTnT).

Methods

A total of 1726 consecutive patients hospitalized with heart failure from July 2015 to December 2021 were enrolled. Baseline serum sST2 concentrations were measured by immunofluorescence assay. Primary endpoint event was the composite of all‐cause death, heart transplantation, or left ventricular assist device.

Results

During the median follow‐up duration of 682 days, 434 patients (25.1%) suffered from primary endpoint events. Baseline sST2 remained an independent predictor of the primary endpoint event in patients hospitalized with heart failure after adjusting for other predictors including NT‐proBNP and hs‐cTnT [per log (unit) increase, adjusted hazard ratio (HR) (95% confidence interval) (CI): 1.20 (1.09, 1.32), P < 0.001]. And baseline sST2 had a better prognostic value for patients with chronic decompensated heart failure [per log (unit) increase, adjusted HR (95% CI): 1.19 (1.07, 1.31)] than for those with acute new onset heart failure [per log (unit) increase, adjusted HR (95% CI): 1.28 (0.94, 1.75), P value for interaction <0.001], as well as a better prognostic value for patients with New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional class I–II [per log (unit) increase, adjusted HR (95% CI): 1.67 (1.11, 2.52)] than for those with NYHA functional class III‐IV [per log (unit) increase, adjusted HR (95% CI): 1.18 (1.07, 1.31), P value for interaction <0.001]. Baseline sST2 was also a good predictor of the primary endpoint event in patients hospitalized with heart failure at 1 month, 3 months, 1 year and 2 years (area under the curve: 0.789, 0.775, 0.736 and 0.733, respectively), and the best cut‐off values were 27.2 ng/ml, 27.1 ng/ml, 27.1 ng/ml and 25.1 ng/ml, respectively. Furthermore, baseline sST2 could provide additional prognostic value when added to baseline NT‐proBNP and hs‐cTnT (all P values <0.05). According to the category of elevated biomarkers (including NT‐proBNP, hs‐cTnT, and sST2), patients with three elevated biomarkers had a higher risk of the primary endpoint event compared with those with one or two elevated biomarkers (all P values <0.05).

Conclusions

Baseline sST2 remained an independent predictor of adverse events after adjusting for other predictors including NT‐proBNP and hs‐cTnT, particularly in patients with chronic decompensated heart failure and NYHA functional class I–II. And in the basis of baseline NT‐proBNP and hs‐cTnT, adding baseline sST2 could provide additional prognostic value for patients hospitalized with heart failure.
High Yield Synthesis of Spirocyclic Dienones from Phenols Employing Tribromide Catalysed Dearomatization
Authors: Kuila Puspendu , Roy Barnali , Sarkar Debayan
Published: May 2024

A catalytic strategy towards the tribromide‐catalyzed dearomative spirocyclization reaction is described employing tetrabutylammonium bromide (TBAB) and oxone as an oxidising agent. This methodology leads to the exclusive formation of spirofurano dienones without rearomatization or halogenation. Our group has been on trails of tribromide‐catalyzed dearomative transformation during the last decade, and now this exhibits the first report which delivers high functional group tolerance and broad substrate scope with excellent yield (up to 99 %) and good diastereoselectivity (dr up to 14 : 1). The oxidation of naphthols as well as phenols is achieved under this mild conditions.
Decatungstate Catalyzed Benzylic C−H Trifluoromethylthiolation
Authors: Tang Meifang , Bao Yanyang , Zhang Han , Xiao Rui , Feng Bingbing , Yuan Zheliang , Wang Yanan
Published: May 2024

Here we report a mild protocol for benzylic C−H trifluoromethylthiolation using sodium decatungstate (NaDT) as the photocatalyst. Wherein, photoactivated DT abstracted the benzylic hydrogen atom via a radical process. This transformation works well with a slight excess of benzylic substrates or as limiting reagents for better purification. The reaction shows mild conditions and good functional group tolerance. Moreover, the protocol could be applied to gram‐scale synthesis.
Extra‐virgin olive oil enriched with lycopene: From industrial tomato by‐products to consumer
Authors: Fernandez‐Pan Idoya , Horvitz Sandra , Ibañez Francisco C. , Arroqui Cristina , Beriain María José , Virseda Paloma
Published: May 2024

Lycopene is usually extracted from the by‐product of the tomato industry using organic solvents (OS) in combination with a physical technique. An emerging physical technique is high‐pressure processing (HPP). This study aims to find a method by applying a green solvent (edible vegetable oils) in an HPP‐assisted solid–liquid extraction. Three dosages of tomato by‐product (10%, 20%, and 40%, w/v) were tested using OS, sunflower oil (RSO), and extra‐virgin olive oil (EVOO). Lycopene recovery increased with the ratio of by‐product to oil, particularly when using EVOO. In another stage of the study, consumers evaluated EVOO that contained two doses of tomato by‐product (10% and 20%, w/v). Consumers preferred the EVOO from 10% tomato by‐product ratio over that with 20%. Additionally, 83.8% of consumers stated that enriched oil could be deemed beneficial for health. The proposed method considers the fundamental principles of the circular economy and practical industrial scenario to recover lycopene from tomato by‐product.
Drink…then drive away: The effects of lowering the blood alcohol concentration in Utah
Authors: Portillo Javier E. , Sugiarto Wisnu , Willardsen Kevin
Published: May 2024

In March of 2017 Utah announced its intent to lower the legal blood alcohol content (BAC) for driving from 0.08 to 0.05 g/dL. However, this change did not take effect until 2019. We employ a difference‐in‐ differences strategy on Utah counties using neighboring states as controls to test whether this policy change significantly affected the number of traffic accidents or the severity of those accidents. Results show the policy appears to temporarily decrease the total number of accidents, limited primarily to property damage‐ only accidents. We believe these results may be partially explained by drivers who, after the policy is enacted, avoid reporting property damage‐only accidents if possible. Using insurance claims data, we show there is no corresponding fall in insurance claims or payouts suggesting that the fall in total accidents likely comes from under‐reporting.
FLT3‐ITD regulation of the endoplasmic reticulum functions in acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Turos‐Cabal María , Sánchez‐Sánchez Ana M. , Puente‐Moncada Noelia , Herrera Federico , Antolin Isaac , Rodríguez Carmen , Martín Vanesa
Published: May 2024

The FLT3‐ITD mutation represents the most frequent genetic alteration in newly diagnosed acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patient and is associated with poor prognosis. Mutation result in the retention of a constitutively active form of this receptor in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and the subsequent modification of its downstream effectors. Here, we assessed the impact of such retention on ER homeostasis and found that mutant cells present lower levels of ER stress due to the overexpression of ERO1α, one of the main proteins of the protein folding machinery at the ER. Overexpression of ERO1α resulted essential for ITD mutant cells survival and chemoresistance and also played a crucial role in shaping the type of glucose metabolism in AML cells, being the mitochondrial pathway the predominant one in those with a higher ER stress (non‐mutated cells) and the glycolytic pathway the predominant one in those with lower ER stress (mutated cells). Our data indicate that FLT3 mutational status dictates the route for glucose metabolism in an ERO1α depending on manner and this provides a survival advantage to tumors carrying these ITD mutations.
Enhancing educational technology practical course: Designing and validating tools for evaluating knowledge, performance, and satisfaction of public health students
Authors: Darabi Fatemeh , Karimian Zahra
Published: May 2024

Background

The present study was conducted with the aim of designing and validating questionnaires for evaluating the public health students' knowledge, performance, and satisfaction (KPS) in the course of educational technology.

Methods

The present study was conducted with qualitative‐quantitative approach. Qualitative stage was done based on experts' opinion and related articles and questionnaires for developing, designing, and validating the tools. For validating the tools, face validity and content validity was done based on the opinion of the 10 expert panel. In quantitative stage, all initial validated tools were implemented on 50 students of public health for determining the reliability. The reliability of the tools was calculated using the internal consistency method of the items with Cronbach's ⍺ coefficient, and Kuder–Richardson. All analyses were conducted using SPSS‐19 software.

Results

In the field of qualitative research, an assessment tool consisting of 20 four‐option questions was designed. The content validity of this tool was confirmed based on the opinions of 10 educational experts, with CVI Total = 0.862 and CVR = 0.885. Additionally, the reliability of the tool was validated through testing on 50 public health students, resulting in a reliability coefficient of r = 0.780. Furthermore, for performance evaluation, four assessment tools each comprising 20 questions (totaling 80 questions) were designed. The validity values for these tools in the areas of PowerPoint (CVI = 0.981, CVR = 0.960), pamphlet (CVI = 0.866, CVR = 0.877), poster (CVI = 0.871, CVR = 0.906), role‐playing (CVI = 0.871, CVR = 0.980), and the reliability of the tools with Cronbach's ⍺ r > 0.80 were confirmed. In the satisfaction assessment section, a researcher‐made questionnaire consisting of 18 questions across seven domains was designed, with confirmed content validity (CVI = 0.949, CVR = 0.861) and reliability (r = 0.928).

Conclusions

It seems that this tool can be used to measure the KPS of students from the educational technology course of the health field and similar fields.
Sensing of luminal contents and downstream modulation of GI function
Authors: Dontamsetti Kiran Devi , Pedrosa‐Suarez Laura Camila , Aktar Rubina , Peiris Madusha
Published: May 2024

The luminal environment is rich in macronutrients coming from our diet and resident microbial populations including their metabolites. Together, they have the capacity to modulate unique cell surface receptors, known as G‐protein coupled receptors (GPCRs). Along the entire length of the gut epithelium, enteroendocrine cells express GPCRs to interact with luminal contents, such as GPR93 and the calcium sensing receptor to sense proteins, FFA2 and GPR84 to sense fatty acids, and SGLT1 and T1R to sense carbohydrates. Nutrient–receptor interaction causes the release of hormonal stores such as glucagon‐like peptide 1, peptide YY, and cholecystokinin, which further regulate gut function. Existing data show the role of luminal components and microbial fermentation products on gut function. However, there is a lack of understanding in the mechanistic interactions between diet‐derived luminal components and microbial products and nutrient‐sensing receptors and downstream gastrointestinal modulation. This review summarizes current knowledge on various luminal components and describes in detail the range of nutrients and metabolites and their interaction with nutrient receptors in the gut epithelium and the emerging impact on immune cells.
Heterogeneity of brain extracellular matrix and astrocyte activation
Authors: Huber Rebecca E. , Babbitt Courtney , Peyton Shelly R.
Published: May 2024

From the blood brain barrier to the synaptic space, astrocytes provide structural, metabolic, ionic, and extracellular matrix (ECM) support across the brain. Astrocytes include a vast array of subtypes, their phenotypes and functions varying both regionally and temporally. Astrocytes' metabolic and regulatory functions poise them to be quick and sensitive responders to injury and disease in the brain as revealed by single cell sequencing. Far less is known about the influence of the local healthy and aging microenvironments on these astrocyte activation states. In this forward‐looking review, we describe the known relationship between astrocytes and their local microenvironment, the remodeling of the microenvironment during disease and injury, and postulate how they may drive astrocyte activation. We suggest technology development to better understand the dynamic diversity of astrocyte activation states, and how basal and activation states depend on the ECM microenvironment. A deeper understanding of astrocyte response to stimuli in ECM‐specific contexts (brain region, age, and sex of individual), paves the way to revolutionize how the field considers astrocyte‐ECM interactions in brain injury and disease and opens routes to return astrocytes to a healthy quiescent state.
Association Between the Creative Experience of Haiku Poetry and a Tendency Toward Self‐Transcendent Emotions
Authors: Kato Juri , Hitsuwari Jimpei
Published: May 2024

Haiku is the world's shortest form of poetry, describing nature and ordinary everyday life. Previous studies and quotes from professional haiku poets suggest that haiku can foster self‐transcendent emotions, such as gratitude and awe. This study compares how those who did and did not create at least one haiku in the past month experience self‐transcendent emotions. A total of 192 haiku writers and 177 non‐writers responded to scales related to self‐transcendent emotions, such as gratitude for serenity, gratitude trait, and trait awe. The results of the Bayesian implementation of Generalized Linear Mixed models revealed that haiku writing increased the frequency of gratitude for serenity and awe, rather than general gratitude. These effects persisted even after controlling for interest in art and educational level, indicating that haiku writing has unique characteristics, including encouragement of attention to nature and a different perspective on daily life. Even in the absence of special events, a change in perspective toward everyday life occurs through creating haiku, and people appreciate and feel awe toward ordinary, everyday things. These novel findings contribute to the study of creativity and emotion.
Advocacy in pediatric gastroenterology: An academic clinician's impact and guide
Authors: Abbas Mazen I. , Kohli Rohit , Du Nan , Orsagh‐Yentis Danielle K. , Dotson Jennifer L.
Published: May 2024

The current state of policy‐making necessitates clinicians and their organizations to be more engaged. This article provides practical examples of how to engage in various levels of advocacy within pediatric gastroenterology.
Prevention of venous thromboembolism after total hip and knee arthroplasties in Australian hospitals: what are we using?
Authors: van Oosterom Nameer , Barras Michael , Cottrell Neil
Published: May 2024

Background

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a leading cause of preventable morbidity and mortality, with total hip arthroplasty (THA) and total knee arthroplasty (TKA) at the highest risk. Safe and appropriate thromboprophylaxis is essential. However, investigations into prescribing practices have been limited.

Aim

To describe current VTE prophylaxis regimens in Australian patients following an elective THA/TKA and compare these regimens to an international standard.

Method

A retrospective multisite case series of patients admitted for a THA/TKA in six tertiary hospitals in Queensland, Australia, was conducted over 12 months (1 October 2017–30 September 2018). Patient and medication data were collected following surgery and for 60 days after discharge to determine changes to the patients' thromboprophylaxis regimen. Results were summarised and compared to National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidelines. Ethical approval was granted by the Metro South Human Research Ethics Committee (Reference no: HREC/2018/QMD/46757) and the study conforms to the National Statement on Ethical Conduct in Human Research.

Results

The study included 1011 patients (43.1% THA, 56.9% TKA), and thromboprophylaxis was used in 98.1% of inpatients and in 94.3% of discharge patients for 5.2 (±5.2) and 29.2 (±15.9) days (±standard deviation) respectively. Low‐molecular‐weight heparins (LMWHs) were the primary drugs for inpatients (71.2%) and aspirin 150 mg for discharge (42.0%), most commonly for 6 weeks (31.8%). Aspirin was used for significantly longer duration than rivaroxaban and LMWH (p < 0.001). A two‐staged prophylaxis regimen was implemented, most commonly any anticoagulant as an inpatient; followed by rivaroxaban on discharge (32.7%) or an anticoagulant as an inpatient with aspirin on discharge (26.4%). Overall, adherence to NICE guidelines was low; THA: 8.7%, TKA: 5.9%.

Conclusion

VTE prophylaxis regimens varied considerably, and consequently, adherence to international guidelines was low. There is a need for local, peer‐led guidelines to ensure consistent, safe, and effective prophylaxis.
Differentiation of pine and oil‐based soots in East Asian inks using Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Giaccai Jennifer , Miller J. Houston
Published: May 2024

East Asian inks are a major component of calligraphy, paintings, and prints in China, Japan, and Korea and are historically made from either pine soot or oil‐lamp soot mixed with a proteinaceous binder. Although the inks from the two different soot sources have different properties in East Asian works of art, no non‐destructive methods to differentiate them scientifically currently exist. Raman spectroscopy (RS) of carbonaceous materials is commonly used to extract information about their properties and has been applied here to East Asian inks. Soots used in making modern inks were collected from 10 sources in China and Japan and analyzed using RS. RS using 405‐, 633‐, and 785‐nm excitation has been able to differentiate pine soot from oil‐lamp soot, also called lampblack. In addition, principal component analysis (PCA) of only 785‐nm Raman spectra has been able to discriminate between two different soots used in a 19th‐century Japanese woodblock printing of Kaishien Gaden. In addition to allowing discrimination between inks on East Asian works of art, these results may be of use to other fields using carbonaceous materials.
Microfluidics identify moso bamboo and henon bamboo by leaf protoplast subpopulations with single‐cell analysis
Authors: Liu Yameng , Wang Mingxu , Wang Xiaohu
Published: May 2024

Current techniques identifying herbal medicine species require marker labeling or lack systematical accuracy (expert authentication). There is an emerging interest in developing an accurate and label‐free tool for herbal medicine authentication. Here, a high‐resolution microfluidic‐based method is developed for identifying herbal species by protoplast subpopulations. Moso bamboo and henon bamboo are used as a model to be differentiated based on protoplast. Their biophysical properties factors are characterized to be 7.09 (± 0.39) × 108 V/m2 and 6.54 (± 0.26) × 108 V/m2, respectively. Their biophysical distributions could be distinguished by the Cramér–von Mises criterion with a 94.60% confidence level. The subpopulations of each were compared with conventional flow cytometry indicating the existence of subpopulations and the differences between the two species. The subsets divided by a biophysical factor of 8.05(± 0.51) × 108 V/m2 suggest good consistency with flow cytometry. The work demonstrated the possibility of microfluidics manipulation on protoplast for medication safety use taking advantage of dielectrophoresis. The device is promising in developing a reliable and accurate way of identifying herbal species with difficulties in authentication.
Esophageal Baseline Impedance is Associated with Laryngopharyngeal Reflux and Treatment Response
Authors: Kurylo Christopher M. , Noel Jacob , Blumin Joel H. , Bock Jonathan M.
Published: May 2024

Objective

To evaluate the efficacy of distal esophageal mean nocturnal baseline impedance (MNBI), a general marker of esophageal mucosal barrier integrity, in predicting laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) and symptomatic response to acid reflux therapy.

Methods

This retrospective study analyzed 173 patients who presented with symptoms of laryngopharyngeal reflux and underwent 24‐h multichannel intraluminal impedance‐pH (MII‐pH) testing. Mean nocturnal baseline impedance values were calculated and assessed for their association and ability to predict LPR symptoms, MII‐pH results, treatment response, and other markers of LPR.

Results

Notably, 153 of the 173 patients were tested off acid suppression medication and included in statistical analysis. Based on the MII‐pH probe data, 108 (71%) patients had LPR, 8 (5%) had gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and 37 (24%) were without pathologic reflux. Distal esophageal MNBI of LPR patients was significantly lower in LPR patients than patients with negative studies (1332 ± 94.8 vs. 2158 ± 173.5, p = 0.001). Among 118 patients who trialed antireflux therapy, a distal esophageal MNBI cutoff value of <1580 Ω was an independent predictor of treatment response (OR = 4.148 [1.877–9.189]). This value better predicted improvement with antireflux therapy for LPR than other objective MII‐pH probe data, which were not independent predictors of treatment response.

Conclusion

Distal esophageal MNBI values may have value in the diagnosis of LPR and potentially predict medication responsiveness in LPR patients.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 134:4071–4077, 2024
Soil erosion associated with roads—A global review and statistical analysis
Authors: Yu Zaihui , Zhao Qinghe , Liu Yi , Yu Jinhai , Wang An , Ding Shengyan
Published: May 2024

Global soil degradation due to road erosion is an escalating concern. This study employed bibliometric analysis using the Science Citation Index‐Expanded dataset to gain insights into research trends in road erosion. It covered the years 2000–2021, revealing a steady increase in annual research publications, particularly after 2018. The United States and Catena was the leading contributor and the most popular journal, respectively. The primary research areas identified by keywords and statistical analysis are the forests and arid regions in the temperate climate zone (including temperate continental climate and temperate monsoon climate) and the tropical climate zone (including tropical rainforest climate and tropical monsoon climate). Since 2012, a noticeable shift from traditional methods to emerging technologies like isotope tracing (e.g., 137Cs, 210Pb) and machine learning (e.g., random forest) was observed, indicating evolving in methodologies with changes in research scales. The study emphasized the inevitability of road erosion, highlighting the crucial role of effective road management and restoration. It proposed integrating best management practices and ecosystem restoration strategies into watershed management, combined with advanced technological approaches, to foster sustainable watershed development.
Lab on a Secchi disk: A prototype open‐source profiling package for low‐cost monitoring in aquatic environments
Authors: Brewin Robert J. W. , Brewin Thomas G. , Bresnahan Philip J. , Davis Keiley , Sun Xuerong , Wilson Nicola , Brunner Lars , Dall'Olmo Giorgio
Published: May 2024

Owing to the high cost of commercial optical sensors, there is a need to develop low‐cost optical sensing packages to expand monitoring of aquatic environments, particularly in under‐resourced regions. Visual methods to monitor the optical properties of water, like the Secchi disk and Forel‐Ule color scale, remain in use in the modern era owing to their simplicity, low‐cost and long history of use. Yet, recent years have seen advances in low‐cost, electronic‐based optical sensing. Here, the designs of a miniaturized hand‐held device (mini‐Secchi disk) that measures the Secchi depth and Forel‐Ule color are updated. We then extend the device by integrating a small electronic sensing package (Arduino‐based) into the Secchi disk, for vertical profiling, combining historic and modern methods for monitoring the optical properties of water into a single, low‐cost sensing device, that measures positioning (GPS), light spectra, temperature, and pressure. It is charged and transfers data wirelessly, is encased in epoxy resin, and can be used to derive vertical profiles of spectral light attenuation and temperature, in addition to Secchi depth and Forel‐Ule color. We present data from a series of deployments of the package, compare its performance with commercially available instruments, and demonstrate its use for validation of satellite remotely sensed data. Our designs are made openly available to promote community‐based development and have potential in communicating and teaching science, participatory science, and low‐cost monitoring of aquatic environments.
Limited‐time pricing strategy considering consumer regret under channel competition
Authors: Yu Shiqiang , Guo Chunxiang , Cheng Hongling , Wu Meng
Published: May 2024

This study constructs a pricing strategy model that considers consumer busyness and low price duration to examine the effectiveness of limited‐time pricing in influencing consumer behavior. The results show that local store can develop a limited‐time promotion strategy to improve profit, and there is an optimal low price duration. As consumer busyness increases, online retailer's profit may decrease, as local store is better able to leverage consumer busyness to enhance competitiveness. Interestingly, when local store lower price, online retailer may actually need to increase price to obtain greater profit from consumers who missed out on store discounts.
A Concise Synthesis of (−)‐Ambrox
Authors: Wang Bingyang , Liu Yanhui , Jia Chenyang , Lan Zhenfang , Yang Xuepeng
Published: May 2024

(−)‐Ambrox, a highly prized and commercially significant component of ambergris, finds widespread application in perfumery, cigarettes, cosmetics, and the food industry. Despite considerable attention to this research area over the years, an environmentally friendly and practical method for synthesizing (−)‐ambrox has remained elusive. This study presents a succinct and efficient approach to (−)‐ambrox synthesis, involving two consecutive alkylations at C‐6, followed by an acid‐catalyzed cyclization to give bicyclic ketones starting from (R)‐carvone. Subsequent reduction, Barton Vinyl Iodide synthesis, alkylation, and an acid‐catalyzed cyclization collectively achieved the synthesis of (−)‐ambrox with a satisfactory yield of 26.2 %.
Moving beyond gross domestic product: The impacts of gross domestic product‐centric cadre performance targets shift on environmental protection
Authors: Zeng Jingjing , Bao Rui
Published: May 2024

The impacts of the economic matrix, particularly the Gross Domestic Product (GDP), within the cadre performance target system (CPTS) on the trade‐offs between local environment and economy have been extensively researched. However, few studies have adequately considered the transition from a single‐target to a multi‐target system and the effects of dynamic changes in this system. This study addresses this gap by assessing the causal effects of China's historic adjustment of GDP‐centric CPTS on local environmental quality. By introducing a dynamic analytical framework of CPTS and employing a time‐varying Difference‐in‐Differences (DiD) design with county‐level data from 2009 to 2018, this study reveals two key findings: (1) Counties that shifted away from a GDP‐centric performance target system experienced a significant average reduction in PM2.5 pollution levels by 6.6%, highlighting the environmental benefits of moving beyond GDP‐focused CPTS; (2) The observed environmental improvements are driven by two mechanisms—correcting land misallocation and optimizing industrial structure. This study advances previous static and single‐goal analyses by introducing a dynamic, multi‐target perspective to cadre performance target‐setting.
Calculating daily dose in the Observational Medical Outcomes Partnership Common Data Model
Authors: Burkard Theresa , López‐Güell Kim , Gorbachev Artem , Bellas Lucía , Jödicke Annika M. , Burn Edward , de Ridder Maria , Mosseveld Mees , Gratton Jasmine , Seager Sarah , Vojinovic Dina , Mayer Miguel Angel , Ramírez‐Anguita Juan Manuel , Machín Angela Leis , Oja Marek , Kolde Raivo , Bonadt Klaus , Prieto‐Alhambra Daniel , Reich Chistian , Català Martí
Published: May 2024

Purpose

We aimed to develop a standardized method to calculate daily dose (i.e., the amount of drug a patient was exposed to per day) of any drug on a global scale using only drug information of typical observational data in the Observational Medical Outcomes Partnership Common Data Model (OMOP CDM) and a single reference table from Observational Health Data Sciences And Informatics (OHDSI).

Materials and Methods

The OMOP DRUG_STRENGTH reference table contains information on the strength or concentration of drugs, whereas the OMOP DRUG_EXPOSURE table contains information on patients' drug prescriptions or dispensations/claims. Based on DRUG_EXPOSURE data from the primary care databases Clinical Practice Research Datalink GOLD (United Kingdom) and Integrated Primary Care Information (IPCI, The Netherlands) and healthcare claims from PharMetrics® Plus for Academics (USA), we developed four formulas to calculate daily dose given different DRUG_STRENGTH reference table information. We tested the dose formulas by comparing the calculated median daily dose to the World Health Organization (WHO) Defined Daily Dose (DDD) for six different ingredients in those three databases and additional four international databases representing a variety of healthcare settings: MAITT (Estonia, healthcare claims and discharge summaries), IQVIA Disease Analyzer Germany (outpatient data), IQVIA Longitudinal Patient Database Belgium (outpatient data), and IMASIS Parc Salut (Spain, hospital data). Finally, in each database, we assessed the proportion of drug records for which daily dose calculations were possible using the suggested formulas.

Results

Applying the dose formulas, we obtained median daily doses that generally matched the WHO DDD definitions. Our dose formulas were applicable to >85% of drug records in all but one of the assessed databases.

Conclusion

We have established and implemented a standardized daily dose calculation in OMOP CDM providing reliable and reproducible results.
An overview about neural networks potentials in molecular dynamics simulation
Authors: Martin‐Barrios Raidel , Navas‐Conyedo Edisel , Zhang Xuyi , Chen Yunwei , Gulín‐González Jorge
Published: May 2024

Ab‐initio molecular dynamics (AIMD) is a key method for realistic simulation of complex atomistic systems and processes in nanoscale. In AIMD, finite‐temperature dynamical trajectories are generated by using forces computed from electronic structure calculations. In systems with high numbers of components a typical AIMD run is computationally demanding. On the other hand, machine learning (ML) is a subfield of the artificial intelligence that consist in a set of algorithms that show learning by experience with the use of input and output data where algorithms are capable of analysing and predicting the future. At present, the main application of ML techniques in atomic simulations is the development of new interatomic potentials to correctly describe the potential energy surfaces (PES). This technique is in constant progress since its inception around 30 years ago. The ML potentials combine the advantages of classical and Ab‐initio methods, that is, the efficiency of a simple functional form and the accuracy of first principles calculations. In this article we review the evolution of four generations of machine learning potentials and some of their most notable applications. This review focuses on MLPs based on neural networks. Also, we present a state of art of this topic and future trends. Finally, we report the results of a scientometric study (covering the period 1995–2023) about the impact of ML techniques applied to atomistic simulations, distribution of publications by geographical regions and hot topics investigated in the literature.
Noise Performance of On‐Chip Nano‐Mechanical Switches for Quantum Photonics Applications
Authors: Thomas Rodrigo A. , Qvotrup Celeste , Liu Zhe , Midolo Leonardo
Published: May 2024

Nano‐opto‐electromechanical systems provide an elegant solution for controlling light in quantum photonic integrated circuits, enabling small footprint devices for on‐chip unitary transformations with low power consumption and cryogenic compatibility. In quantum applications, the noise of optical switches and routers is an important factor in establishing high‐fidelity linear optical operations. In this work, the dynamical operation and noise performance of gap‐variable directional couplers fabricated in Gallium Arsenide, are reported. The noise contribution stemming from mechanical modes of the devices are investigated and a low‐temperature total phase noise of is observed over the 1–5 MHz bandwidth. The noise characteristic depends very weakly on the temperature, suggesting that the origin of noise stems primarily from electrostatic actuation.