bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of lateral spacings and irrigation water quality on plant growth and yield parameters of onion in the semi‐arid region of India
Authors: Kumar Mukesh , Naresh Ram , Duhan Darshana , Singh Kuldeep , Mehla Mukesh Kumar , Jhorar Raj Kumar
Published: April 2024

Field experiments were conducted to investigate an appropriate saline water management strategy to enhance the yield and irrigation water use efficiency (IWUE) of drip‐irrigated onion. The effects on soil water–salt dynamics, growth parameters, IWUE and yield were assessed under different lateral spacings and irrigation treatments. The different treatments comprised two lateral spacings (45 and 60 cm) and four irrigation treatments (canal water, C; conjunctive use of canal and saline water in a 1:1 ratio, C1S1; in a 1:2 ratio, C1S2; and saline water, S). The results show that soil moisture content decreased vertically downwards and radially outwards in all treatments, whereas soil salinity increased and decreased with increasing radial distance and soil depth, respectively, throughout the soil profile irrespective of the lateral spacing and irrigation treatments. The maximum yield and IWUE were observed at 45‐cm lateral spacing for treatment C, followed by C1S1, C1S2 and S. It was concluded that the C1S1 treatment can be employed successfully for onion cultivation in sandy loam soil without any significant reduction in yield. The present study highlights the significance of irrigation treatments and lateral spacing for maximum production, which may be used as a baseline/guideline to increase the income of onion growers/farmers in semi‐arid regions.
Breathing life into social emotional learning programs: A Bio‐Psycho‐Social approach to risk reduction and positive youth development
Authors: Newman Ronnie I. , Yim Odilia , Stewart Maria‐Christina
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Over one‐third of US adolescents engage in health risk and problem behaviors. Additionally, significant percentages of problem‐free youth aren't flourishing. Left unaddressed, the lifetime mental/physical health and financial burdens may be substantial. Social‐Emotional Learning (SEL) and Positive Youth Development (PYD) programs have proliferated to address the drivers of adaptive versus risk behaviors. Research suggests SEL/PYD program outcomes can be improved by adding techniques that physiologically induce calmness, yet few studies exist.

Methods

This randomized controlled trial of 79 urban eighth‐graders examined a standardized bio‐psycho‐social program, SKY Schools, which incorporates a physiologically calming component: controlled yogic breathing.

Results

Repeated‐measures ANOVAs demonstrated that compared to controls, SKY graduates exhibited significant improvements in emotion regulation, planning and concentration, and distractibility. After 3 months, significant improvements were evidenced in emotion regulation, planning and concentration, identity formation, and aggressive normative beliefs.

Conclusion

SEL/PYD programs may benefit by incorporating biologically‐calming techniques to enhance well‐being and prevent risk/problem behaviors.
Behavior problems, social relationships, and adolescents' future orientation. Links from middle to late adolescence
Authors: Rydell Ann‐Margret , Brocki Karin C.
Published: April 2024

Introduction

As adolescents leave high school, plans for the future are of great importance. Future orientation reflects positive thoughts regarding further education, employment, and family life. While future orientation has been found to affect behavior problems, the influence of behavior problems on future orientation is mainly unknown. Positive parent−child and peer relations may boost positive outlooks, but the interplay of behavior problems and social relations for future orientation remains to be studied.

Methods

Participants were 485 adolescents, 54% girls, living in Mid‐Sweden. At age 15, parents and adolescents rated ADHD‐ and internalizing symptoms, parents rated ODD‐symptoms, and adolescents rated their relationship with parents and peers. At age 18, adolescents rated future orientation regarding education, employment, and family, and reported on delinquent acts.

Results

Low levels of inattention symptoms and of delinquency were important for all higher future orientation aspects. In contrast, higher levels of hyperactive‐impulsive symptoms were associated with more positive outlooks on work and family life. Relationships with parents and peers were stronger predictors of future outlooks, compared with behavior problems. There were few interaction effects of behavioral symptoms and social relationship quality.

Conclusions

Behavior problems in middle adolescence may negatively affect future outlooks. However, positive social relations, especially relations with peers, seem more important for optimistic views than behavior problems and thus may have a compensatory effect. The clinical implications should be to address the young person's social world, in the case of misgivings about the future, also in the presence of problematic behaviors.
Toxicity and inflammatory potential of mineral fibres: The contribute of released soluble metals versus cell contact direct effects
Authors: Almonti Vanessa , Vernazza Stefania , Mirata Serena , Tirendi Sara , Passalacqua Mario , Gualtieri Alessandro Francesco , Di Giuseppe Dario , Scarfì Sonia , Bassi Anna Maria
Published: April 2024

Asbestos fibres have been considered an environmental hazard for decades. However, little is known about the attempts of circulating immune cells to counteract their toxicity. We addressed the early effects of fibre‐released soluble factors (i.e. heavy metals) in naïve immune cells, circulating immediately below the alveolar/endothelial cell layer. By comparison, the direct fibre effects on endotheliocytes were also studied since these cells are known to sustain inflammatory processes. The three mineral fibres analysed showed that mainly chrysotile (CHR) and erionite (ERI) were able to release toxic metals in extracellular media respect to crocidolite (CRO), during the first 24 h. Nevertheless, all three fibres were able to induce oxidative stress and genotoxic damage in indirectly challenged naïve THP‐1 monocytes (separated by a membrane). Conversely, only CHR‐released metal ions induced apoptosis, NF‐κB activation, cytokines and CD163 gene overexpression, indicating a differentiation towards the M0 macrophage phenotype. On the other hand, all three mineral fibres in direct contact with HECV endothelial cells showed cytotoxic, genotoxic and apoptotic effects, cytokines and ICAM‐I overexpression, indicating the ability of these cells to promote an inflammatory environment in the lung independently from the type of inhaled fibre. Our study highlights the different cellular responses to mineral fibres resulting from both the nature of the cells and their function, but also from the chemical–physical characteristics of the fibres. In conclusion, CHR represented the main pro‐inflammatory trigger, able to recruit and activate circulating naïve monocytes, through its released metals, already in the first 24 h after inhalation.
Single mothers' perceptions of neighborhood social cohesion, parenting stress, adverse childhood experiences in early childhood and Black children's behavior problems in middle childhood and adolescence
Authors: Ray Jennifer A. , Preston Kathleen S. J. , Jackson Aurora P.
Published: April 2024

This study examined the roles of neighborhood social cohesion, adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), and parenting stress in early childhood on child behavioral outcomes in middle childhood and adolescence among socioeconomically disadvantaged Black families. To test a model linking perceptions of neighborhood social cohesion, single mothers' parenting stress, ACEs, and behavior problems in middle childhood and adolescence. We used four waves of longitudinal data from a subsample of 800 unmarried Black mothers and their children (at child birth and ages 3, 5, 9, and 15) from the Future of Families and Child Wellbeing Study, a nationally representative data set. Structural equation modeling with latent variables was used to measure direct and indirect effects. Mothers' perceptions of neighborhood social cohesion were significantly and negatively associated parenting stress (β = −0.34, p < 0.05); parenting stress was significantly and positively related to adverse childhood experiences (β = 0.40, p < 0.05) and behavior problems (β = 0.32, p < 0.05); Adverse childhood experiences were significantly and positively related to behavior problems (β = 0.26, p < 0.05); and behavior problems were indirectly influenced by neighborhood social cohesion through adverse childhood experiences (β = −0.14, p < 0.05) and parenting stress (β = 0.10, p < 0.05). Neighborhood factors may play a significant role in parenting stress, adverse childhood experiences in early childhood, and children's behavior problems in middle childhood and adolescence among some single mothers and children in economically and socially disadvantaged Black families. Interventions that enhance neighborhood social cohesion and foster supportive interactions among community members and organizations are recommended.
How to design a broad mindfulness program: One approach to introducing mindfulness to a STEM community within a university setting
Authors: Alexander Stefanie , Vue Zer , Sevel Landrew , Vang Chia , Neikirk Kit , Hinton Antentor , Oliver Kendra H.
Published: April 2024

Mindfulness has become popular in recent decades as a tool for psychological well‐being. However, mindfulness has yet to find a solid footing as a routine practice within the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) field. Here, we discuss the design of an introductory mindfulness program that provides the STEM community with a broad overview of various mindfulness methods. We also discuss delivery implementation methods and other considerations when designing mindfulness programming. This article provides resources for those interested in incorporating mindfulness into the STEM field, especially within the university setting.
Language as social action: Gertrude Buck, the “Michigan School” of rhetoric, and pragmatist philosophy
Authors: Huebner Daniel R.
Published: April 2024

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Gertrude Buck and collaborators developed a sociologically and pragmatist‐informed approach to language that has been neglected in later scholarship. Buck approached the study of language from the standpoint of pragmatist functional psychology, which is indebted to John Dewey's pragmatism at the University of Michigan, and which views language as a normal, dynamic action of human organisms engaged in necessary cooperative relations with one another. Her approach overcomes the small‐minded pragmatism that would criticize figurative or poetic language as impractical, and instead shows how figuration is essential to the particular ways in which language is action that conveys meaning to others and serves broader social functions. Buck's forgotten work helps overcome criticisms of the application of pragmatic action theory to language and literature, sketching how language structure may be explained on the basis of language as a natural social‐communicative act, how figurative language is inherent in the normal act of communicating situated bodily experiences to others, and how rhetorical speech and writing contributes to participation in democratic social processes. This paper also indicates how Buck's work has been partially rediscovered in Composition Studies, as well as prefigures later reader‐response esthetics and feminist analyses of language.
Hospital‐associated venous thromboembolism prophylaxis use by risk assessment at a large integrated health care network in Northern California
Authors: Xu James , Neeman Elad , Thai Khanh K. , Mishra Pranita , Schlessinger David , Clancy Heather , Myers Laura , Roubinian Nareg , Liu Vincent , Liu Raymond
Published: April 2024

Background

Hospital‐acquired venous thromboembolism (HA VTE) is a preventable complication in hospitalized patients.

Objective

We aimed to examine the use of pharmacologic prophylaxis (pPPX) and compare two risk assessment methods for HA VTE: a retrospective electronic Padua Score (ePaduaKP) and admitting clinician's choice of risk within the admission orderset (low, moderate, or high).

Design, Settings and Participants

We retrospectively analyzed prophylaxis orders for adult medical admissions (2013–2019) at Kaiser Permanente Northern California, excluding surgical and ICU patients.

Intervention

ePaduaKP was calculated for all admissions. For a subset of these admissions, clinician‐assigned HA VTE risk was extracted.

Main Outcome and Measures

Descriptive pPPX utilization rates between ePaduaKP and clinician‐assigned risk as well as concordance between ePaduaKP and clinician‐assigned risk.

Results

Among 849,059 encounters, 82.2% were classified as low risk by ePaduaKP, with 42.3% receiving pPPX. In the subset with clinician‐assigned risk (608,512 encounters), low and high ePaduaKP encounters were classified as moderate risk in 87.5% and 92.0% of encounters, respectively. Overall, 56.7% of encounters with moderate clinician‐assigned risk received pPPX, compared to 7.2% of encounters with low clinician‐assigned risk. pPPX use occurred in a large portion of low ePaduaKP risk encounters. Clinicians frequently assigned moderate risk to encounters at admission irrespective of their ePaduaKP risk when retrospectively examined. We hypothesize that the current orderset design may have negatively influenced clinician‐assigned risk choice as well as pPPX utilization. Future work should explore optimizing pPPX for high‐risk patients only.
Plasma lipids paediatric reference intervals: Indirect estimation using a large 14‐year database
Authors: Galozzi Paola , Padoan Andrea , Moretti Carlo , Aita Ada , Basso Daniela
Published: April 2024

Objectives

Establishing direct reference intervals (RIs) for paediatric patients is a very challenging endeavour. Indirect RIs can address this problem, using existing clinical laboratory databases from real‐world data research. Compared to the traditional direct method, the indirect approach is highly practical, widely applicable, and low‐cost. Considering the relevance of dyslipidemia in the paediatric age, to provide better laboratory services to the local paediatric population, we established population‐specific lipid RIs via data mining.

Methods

Our laboratory information system was searched for cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) and high‐density lipoprotein (HDL) of patients aged less than 18 years, performed from January 2009 until December 2022. RIs were estimated using RefineR algorithm.

Results

Values from 215,594 patients were initially collected. After refining data on the basis of specific exclusion criteria that left 17,933 patients, we determined the RIs for each analyte, including corresponding 95% confidence interval (95% CI). Age and sex partitions were required for proper stratification of the heterogenous subpopulations. Age‐related variations in TC and TG values were observed mainly in children until 5 years. RIs were defined for children less than 3 years and for those of 3–18 years. In our population, the obtained RIs were comparable with those of the literature, but the upper TG limit in subjects under the age of 3 (2.03 mmol/L with 95% CI: 1.45–2.86) was lower than that previously reported.

Conclusions

Our RIs, necessary for paediatric lipid monitoring, are tailored to the serviced patient population as should be done whenever possible.
Halo effect measurement for mini‐light‐emitting diode backlight liquid crystal displays
Authors: Xinyu Wang , Zhiyong Lu , Guofeng Kuang , Guofu Tang , Chao Liu , Qinquan Zhang , Qiaozhen Lian , Xuerun Huang
Published: April 2024

We develop a measurement and evaluation system to quantify the halo effect of mini‐light‐emitting diode (LED) backlight liquid crystal displays (mLCDs). The validity and reliability of our halo measurement system was investigated through a human visual perception experiment. The results indicate that our halo measurement system can effectively distinguish the halo differences among different displays, with matching rate of 93.3% between our measurement and the human visual system.
Modified three‐layer vesicourethral reconstruction in robot‐assisted radical prostatectomy can change cystography pattern and improve early recovery of continence
Authors: Chen Hung‐Yi , Liu Jui‐Ming , Shao I‐Hung , Liu Kuan‐Lin , Lin Cheng‐Feng , Chang Ching‐Wen , Lin Cheng‐Chia , Wu Chun‐Te
Published: April 2024

Background and Objectives

To determine early continence outcomes after three‐layer vesicourethral reconstruction during robot‐assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) and the role of postoperative cystography pattern.

Methods

Between May 2015 and January 2019, a total of 170 consecutive patients with localized prostate cancer who underwent RARP, were divided into one‐ and three‐layer groups based on the method of vesicourethral reconstruction. Continent status, preoperative, intraoperative, postoperative, clinicopathological variables, and cystography parameters were analyzed. The patients were followed up for at least 12 months.

Results

Of the 170 consecutive patients, 85 with one‐layer vesicourethral anastomosis, and 85 with three‐layer reconstruction. The continence rates immediately after catheter removal, 4, 12, and 24 weeks after RARP were 47.1%, 75.3%, 92.9%, and 98.8% in the three‐layer group; compared to 15.3%, 60%, 78.8%, and 90.6% in the one‐layer group, respectively. In the multivariate analysis, three‐layer reconstruction was the only independent variable with a 42% risk reduction of postprostatectomy incontinence (hazard ratio (HR): 0.58, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.42–0.80, p = 0.001). Cystography in the three‐layer group revealed less anastomotic leakage, less sharp bladder neck angle, and higher bladder neck level category.

Conclusions

Three‐layer anatomical reconstruction demonstrated promising early continence outcomes, and postoperative cystography revealed a specific pattern more associated with continence.
A novel mini‐retractor for retroperitoneal laparoscopic partial nephrectomy
Authors: Lu Xuwei , Guo Zhuifeng , Yang Guanwen , Yang Fan , Sun Yang , Zhang Sihong , Huang Jiaqi , He Minke , Wu Jiawen , Cheng Jie , Guo Jianming , Wang Hang
Published: April 2024

Background

Retroperitoneal partial nephrectomy (RLPN) is the premier treatment for localized renal tumors despite narrow operation space. Many efforts have been taken to facilitate the operation of RLPN, but the optimal resolution remains debatable.

Objective

To explore the feasibility of using Mini‐lap to improve workspace and surgical vision in RLPN.

Design, Setting, and Participants

A multicenter retrospective review of 51 patients who underwent RLPN with Mini‐lap from January 2018 to December 2020 was conducted.

Surgical Procedure

Standard RLPN under three poles was performed in all cases. We highlighted the usage of Mini‐lap (Teleflex Minilap percutaneous Surgical System) as a novel retractor in RLPN.

Outcome and Measurements and Statical Analysis

Demographics, preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative outcomes were assessed.

Results and Limitations

All 51 cases completed RLPN with three ports successfully and no conversion to open surgery. The mean diameter of tumors was (3.53 ± 1.05) cm, in which 62.7% (32/51) were located anteriorly. The operation time and warm ischemic time (WIT) were (86.7 ± 15.9) min and (25.6 ± 5) min respectively. Minor complications (Clavien grade 1−2) occurred in 6 cases. The limitations were small sample size, retrospective design, and absence of control.

Conclusions

Mini‐lap could be used as a mini‐retractor in RLPN, sparing extra assistant ports, expanding workspace, and optimizing vision.

Patient Summary

With highlights of larger workspace and less instrument interference, mini‐lap could be applied in retroperitoneal laparoscopic partial nephrectomy.
Necrobiotic xanthogranuloma: A case report of successful treatment with intravenous immunoglobulins
Authors: Winkler Julia K. , Haenssle Holger A. , Hoffmann Jochen , Toberer Ferdinand , Enk Alexander H.
Published: April 2024

Necrobiotic xanthogranuloma (NXG) is a rare non‐Langerhans cell histiocytosis associated with paraproteinemia. Skin lesions of NXG are difficult to treat and various therapies have been evaluated with inconsistent results. A therapeutic standard has not been established. We report on a patient severely affected by mutilating skin and ocular lesions as well as lung infiltrates of necrobiotic xanthogranuloma. After failure of several previous therapies including dapsone and adalimumab, lesions significantly improved during therapy with intravenous immunoglobulins (IVIg). IVIg are an effective treatment option to evaluate in NXG.
Meniscal extrusion consensus statement: A collaborative survey within the Meniscus International Network (MenIN) Study Group
Authors: Familiari Filippo , Chahla Jorge , Compagnoni Riccardo , DePhillipo Nicholas N. , Moatshe Gilbert , LaPrade Robert F. ,   Meniscus International Network (MenIN) Study Group
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The purpose of the present study was to perform a survey administered to members of the Meniscus International Network (MenIN) Study Group, seeking to delineate the most contentious aspects of meniscal extrusion classification and provide a foundation for new, more comprehensive definitions and treatments for these pathologies.

Methods

MenIN Study Group is a group of international experts treating and performing research on meniscus pathology and treatment. All MenIN Study Group members were asked to complete a survey aimed at establishing criteria for the optimal classification system for meniscal extrusion. Data obtained from the completed questionnaires were transferred into a spreadsheet and then analysed. All responses are presented as counts, percentages or means.

Results

Forty‐seven (85.5%) MenIN Study Group members completed the survey and were included in this analysis. Key aspects recommended for inclusion in a comprehensive classification system for meniscal extrusion included laterality (93.6%), anatomical location (76.6%), patient age (76.6%), body mass index (BMI) (68.1%) and aetiology (68.1%). For classifying meniscal extrusion, 53.2% considered the distance in millimetres from the tibial plateau's outer margin as the most reliable measurement technique on imaging. Preferences for imaging modalities varied, with 44.7% favouring weight‐bearing magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and 36.2% opting for weight‐bearing ultrasound due to its greater availability. Respondents advocated for a classification system addressing stability or progression of meniscal extrusion (66%), reducibility (53.2%), potential progression of knee osteoarthritis (OA) (83%), influencing treatment approaches (83%), a gradation system (83%), consideration of dynamic factors (66%), association with clinical outcomes and prognosis (76.6%) and investigation around centralization procedures (57.4%).

Conclusions

In conclusion, the findings of this survey shed light on the global perspectives regarding meniscal extrusion classification. It was generally felt that a new classification of extrusion measured on MRI scans at the mid‐tibial plateau should be developed, which considers factors such as laterality, anatomical location, age, BMI and aetiology. Additionally, the results support the integration of dynamic factors and clinical outcomes in MRI‐based classifications to inform treatment approaches.

Level of Evidence

Level IV.
Percutaneous delivery of liquid tetracycline using a thermal resurfacing drug delivery system for the treatment of festoons
Authors: Safir Margarita , Waizer Inbar , Safir Ari , Hartstein Morris E. , Artzi Ofir
Published: April 2024

Objectives

To examine the effects of percutaneous tetracycline delivery to the malar area using a thermomechanical device (Tixel) in patients suffering from festoons.

Methods

This retrospective study included patients who underwent combination treatment with a thermomechanical device (Tixel) followed by application of topical tetracycline 1% at two private clinics between 2019 and 2023. Demographic and medical data, treatment parameters along with before and after treatment photographs were retrieved retrospectively. All patients were asked to answer a questionnaire, assessing self‐reported pre and posttreatment disturbance, patient global impression of change (PGIC) score, overall satisfaction with treatment, and the onset and duration of treatment effect. Finally, three masked reviewers evaluated and graded the severity of before and after treatment photographs.

Results

Twenty healthy patients received the combination treatment. The mean age was 59.4 ± 8.2 years (range: 45–72 years), and 90.0% (n = 18) were female. The number of treatment sessions per patient ranged from 2 to 8, mean of 5.0 ± 1.9, performed at 5.4 ± 1.2‐week intervals. The masked reviewers' grading scores demonstrated a significant improvement (2.81 ± 1.3 before vs. 1.6 ± 1.1 after, p < 0.001). The self‐reported disturbance caused by the festoons improved significantly as well (4.7 ± 0.98 vs. 1.7 ± 1.1, p < 0.001). On the PGIC score, 85% (17/20) reported moderate (grade 5) to significant (grade 7) improvement of symptoms and life quality after treatment. Improvement onset was reported to occur 11.2 ± 6.6 days after the first treatment (range 2−30 days), and 90% (18/20) of the patients reported improvement lasting at least 4 months after completion of the second treatment.

Conclusions

Topical tetracycline application following Tixel treatment induced significant improvement in patient with festoons.
The Repeatability of Pharyngeal Opening Pressure Under Drug‐Induced Sleep Endoscopy
Authors: Chan Tyler G. , Plageman Jack , Yu Jason L.
Published: April 2024

Objective

Pharyngeal opening pressure (PhOP) is a measure of upper airway collapsibility that can be obtained during drug‐induced sleep endoscopy (DISE) using a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) titration. However, the stability of PhOP over the course of sedation during DISE remains unclear. This study aims to compare repeat measures of PhOP over the course of DISE.

Study Design

Single arm prospective study.

Setting

Single tertiary care institution.

Methods

Patients had 2 CPAP titrations while undergoing DISE. Collected data included patient demographics, PhOP, patient sedation index (PSI), and duration of and between CPAP titrations. t Tests, test‐retest coefficient analysis, and repeated measures correlation were performed.

Results

Twenty‐five patients completed the study between 2022 and 2023 with 22 patients having sedation depth (PSI) recording. Most were male (76%), obese (average body mass index: 30.24 kg/m2), with severe obstructive sleep apnea (average apnea‐hypopnea index: 39.8 events/hr). Test‐retest analysis showed good‐excellent correlation between PhOP values (intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.892, P < .0001, n = 25). Average time between CPAP titrations was 15 minutes to 6 seconds. Over that time, PhOP increased by an average of 0.72 cmH2O (P = .06, n = 25) and PSI decreased by 9.5 units (P = .01, n = 22). Repeated measures correlation showed a weak negative correlation between PhOP and PSI (r = −.45, P = .03, n = 22).

Conclusion

The results showed repeatability of PhOP values over the course of DISE. When adjusted for sedation depth (PSI), deeper sedation was weakly associated with greater PHOP. However, the magnitude of this change was small and we conclude that PhOP remains relatively stable over the course of DISE (Effects of Lung Volume on Upper Airway Patency During DISE [DISE‐Pulm], NCT05350332, clinicaltrials.gov).
National Cohort Data Suggests an Association Between Serious Mental Illness and Audiometric Hearing Loss
Authors: Alter Isaac L. , Tucker Lauren H. , Dragon Jacqueline M. , Grewal Maeher R. , Saperstein Alice , Stroup T. Scott , Medalia Alice A. , Golub Justin S.
Published: April 2024

Objective

To explore whether there is an association between serious mental illness (SMI) and hearing loss (HL) among US Hispanic adults.

Study Design and Setting

Cross‐sectional epidemiological study (Hispanic Community Health Study), including multicentered US volunteers.

Methods

Multivariable linear regressions were conducted to study the association between SMI and HL. Adjustments were made for potential confounders including age, sex, education, vascular disease (hypertension or diabetes mellitus), and cognition. SMI was defined by (1) antipsychotic medication classification and (2) the use of at least 1 antipsychotic medication specifically used to treat SMI in clinical psychiatric practice. HL was measured by pure tone audiometry.

Results

A total of 7581 subjects had complete data. The mean age was 55.2 years (SD = 7.5 years) and the mean pure tone average in the better ear was 16.8 dB (SD = 10.7 dB). A total of 194 (2.6%) subjects were taking a HCHS‐defined antipsychotic and 98 (1.3%) were taking at least 1 antipsychotic specifically used to treat SMI. On multivariable regression, use of HCHS's classified antipsychotics was associated with 3.75 dB worse hearing (95% confidence interval [CI] = 2.36‐5.13, P < .001) and use of antipsychotics specific for SMI was associated with 4.49 dB worse hearing (95% CI = 2.56‐6.43, P < .001) compared to those not using antipsychotics.

Conclusion

SMI, as defined by either the use of HCHS‐defined antipsychotics or the use of antipsychotic medication specific for SMI, is associated with worse hearing, controlling for potential confounders. Whether SMI contributes to HL, antipsychotic medication (through ototoxicity) contributes to HL, or whether HL contributes to SMI is unknown and warrants further investigation.
Lightweight, hydrostatic pressure‐resistance, thermal insulating epoxy syntactic foam with a multiscale ternary structure for marine engineering application
Authors: Wang Xiaodong , Liu Weidong , Zeng Long , Zhang Lili , Bai Chengying , Shen Jun , Zheng Ting , Sun Bin , Qiao Yingjie
Published: April 2024

The study of lightweight epoxy syntactic foams is of great significance for the exploitation of marine resources. In this work, glass fibers reinforced epoxy hollow spheres (GFs‐EHS) were first prepared using a template method, and a lightweight three‐phase epoxy syntactic foam (LWTP‐ESF) with a multiscale ternary structure was prepared using a molding pressing method with epoxy resin as matrix, hollow glass microspheres (HGMs), and GF‐EHS as the lightweight fillers. The effect of HGMs content on the density, uniaxial compression properties, water absorption, and thermal conductivity of obtained LWTP‐ESF was evaluated. The results indicated that the density, uniaxial compression strength, and thermal conductivity of LWTP‐ESF were consistently decreased, while the water absorption was increased with the increase in HGMs content. The highest specific compression strength and lowest thermal conductivity of LWTP‐ESF could reach 52.77 ± 0.82 MPa·cm3/g and 0.113 ± 0.005 W/(m·K), respectively. Moreover, the effect of hydrostatic pressure on the water absorption and thermal conductivity of LWTP‐ESF were also systematically analyzed. This study provides a novel system and method to prepare lightweight epoxy syntactic foams, and the prepared composites have potential applications in the field of lightweight thermal insulation materials for marine.

Highlights

The composites with a multiscale ternary structure were designed.

The composites possessed significantly lower density and thermal conductivity.

The water absorption of composites under hydrostatic pressure was evaluated.

The thermal conductivity of composites under hydrostatic pressure was evaluated.

The water absorption mechanism and thermal insulation mechanism were proposed.
Fabrication and characterizations of screw pine root fiber reinforced soy composite as sustainable green composite
Authors: Pattnaik Shruti S. , Behera Diptiranjan , Pani Yubraj , Das Nigamananda , Misra Manjusri , Mohanty Amar K. , Behera Ajaya K.
Published: April 2024

Screw pine root fibers are engineering fibers that have yet to be explored in terms of its chemistry with bio‐resin in biodegradable composites to replace nonbiodegradable thermoplastics used in packaging, automobiles, furniture, and industrial sectors. Screw pine root fibers are reinforced with soy, poly(vinyl alcohol), and soy‐poly(vinyl alcohol) resin systems in this work to create a variety of composites. Composites demonstrated highest amount of tensile strength at around 39.7 MPa, 37.6 MPa of flexural property, along with an impact strength around 12.4 kJ/m2. The thermal solidity of the optimized material was determined to be 235°C. After 24 hours of immersion, the composite had the lowest water absorption of 18.4%. All composites were shown to be biodegradable, losing about 54.2%–72.9% of their original mass after 60 days in soil burial. Unique characteristics such as the use of low‐cost agricultural materials, water‐based resin, stable composite, and properties such as moderately strong, safe disposal after service periods make these manufactured composites market feasible as consumer‐friendly/ecofriendly green products.

Highlights

Screw pine root fibers were extracted from waste roots and used as reinforcement.

The tensile strength of the composite was achieved as 39.7 MPa.

The water absorption of hybrid composite was found 30.8% after 24 h.

After 60 days under soil burial, composite lost 67.5% of its original weight

Developed composites can be good alternant for nondegradable thermoplastic.
Design for the environment: SHJ module with ultra‐low carbon footprint
Authors: Béjat Timea , Gazbour Nouha , Boulanger Amandine , Monna Rémi , Varache Renaud , François Jérôme , Favre Wilfried , Roux Charles , Derrier Aude , Voroshazi Eszter
Published: April 2024

The photovoltaic (PV) industry is reaching an inflection point to become a major source of energy. Last decades brought important technical progression in modules' yield and durability. Already available technical solutions might reach the highest power output and the lowest environmental impact in a module. Nevertheless, cost remains the major driver for innovation; top PV panels must combine cost/delay/yield to reach reasonable market share. Our paper presents the development of silicon heterojunction (SHJ) modules with exemplary power and reliability with significantly reduced environmental impact and components sourced from Europe. In order to guide the technology choice in the design phase, we performed a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) sensitivity study. For a standard PV module, we identify the main steps to improve in order to reduce its environmental footprint. This guided us to tackle the components with the highest impact on the carbon footprint, namely the wafer, glass front sheet and aluminium frame. The proposed improvements will be tested from technical and economic point of view and assembled within one PV module. At the cell scale, we achieved the reduction of the carbon footprint by reducing the thickness of the wafers issued from the European value chain. Optimisation of metallisation and cell interconnection has limited the consumption of silver (Ag), a critical raw metal. At the module level, we implemented the reduction of glass thickness and the replacement of the aluminium frame with a natural fibre‐based frame in a glass‐backsheet module configuration. In addition, we applied a ‘design for recycling’ approach for the choice of encapsulant and backsheet. The combination of these innovations led us to the realisation of a 566‐Wp recyclable module using a tiling interconnection, cells with an average efficiency of 22.57% with a carbon footprint of 313 kgCO2eq/kWp.
SHIFTing goals in cystic fibrosis—managing extrapulmonary disease in the era of CFTR modulator therapy; Proceedings of the International Shaping Initiatives and Future Trends (SHIFT) Symposium
Authors: O'Donnell Jonathan E. M. , Hastings Lucy A. , Briody Julie N. , Chan Christine L. , Colombo Carla , Douglas Tonia A. , Freedman Steven D. , Gonska Tanja , Greenfield Jerry R. , Leung Daniel H. , Lim Adeline Y. L. , Moran Antoinette , Prentice Bernadette J. , Putman Melissa S. , Trotter Michael , Tullis Elizabeth , Westall Glen P. , Verge Charles F. , Wainwright Claire E. , Ooi Chee Y. ,   the SHIFT Symposium 2021
Published: April 2024

Background

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a life‐shortening multisystem genetic disease. Although progressive pulmonary disease is the predominant cause of morbidity and mortality, improvements in treatment for CF‐related lung disease, with associated increase in longevity, have increased the prevalence of extrapulmonary manifestations1.

Methods

To discuss these issues, a multidisciplinary meeting of international leaders and experts in the field was convened in November 2021 at the Shaping Initiatives and Future Trends  Symposium with the goal of highlighting shifting management paradigms in CF. The main topics covered were: (1) nutrition and obesity, (2) exocrine pancreas, (3) CF‐related diabetes, (4) CF liver disease, (5) CF‐related bone disease, and (6) post‐lung transplant care. This document summarizes the proceedings, highlighting the key priorities and important research questions that were discussed.

Results

Improved life expectancy, the advent of cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator modulators, and the increasing appreciation of the heterogeneity or spectrum of disease are leading to a shift in management for patients with cystic fibrosis. Care should be individualized to ensure that increased longevity is accompanied by improved extra‐pulmonary care and reduced morbidity.
Retromer‐mediated recruitment of the WASH complex involves discrete interactions between VPS35, VPS29, and FAM21
Authors: Romano‐Moreno Miguel , Astorga‐Simón Elsa N. , Rojas Adriana L. , Hierro Aitor
Published: April 2024

Endosomal trafficking ensures the proper distribution of lipids and proteins to various cellular compartments, facilitating intracellular communication, nutrient transport, waste disposal, and the maintenance of cell structure. Retromer, a peripheral membrane protein complex, plays an important role in this process by recruiting the associated actin‐polymerizing WASH complex to establish distinct sorting domains. The WASH complex is recruited through the interaction of the VPS35 subunit of retromer with the WASH complex subunit FAM21. Here, we report the identification of two separate fragments of FAM21 that interact with VPS35, along with a third fragment that binds to the VPS29 subunit of retromer. The crystal structure of VPS29 bound to a peptide derived from FAM21 shows a distinctive sharp bend that inserts into a conserved hydrophobic pocket with a binding mode similar to that adopted by other VPS29 effectors. Interestingly, despite the network of interactions between FAM21 and retromer occurring near the Parkinson's disease‐linked mutation (D620N) in VPS35, this mutation does not significantly impair the direct association with FAM21 in vitro.
Impact of Sequential N Ion Implantation on Extended Defects and Mg Distribution in Mg Ion‐Implanted GaN
Authors: Kano Emi , Uzuhashi Jun , Kobayashi Koki , Ishikawa Kosuke , Sawabe Kyosuke , Narita Tetsuo , Sierakowski Kacper , Bockowski Michal , Ohkubo Tadakatsu , Kachi Tetsu , Ikarashi Nobuyuki
Published: April 2024

In Mg ion implantation doping of GaN, sequential N ion implantation reportedly changes Mg concentrations in the Mg ion‐implanted region and the underlying region after activation annealing. The impact of sequential N ion implantation on defects and Mg distribution after postimplantation annealing is investigated. The atomic‐resolution analyses show that, in the Mg ion‐implanted region, the N ion implantation increases the concentration of MgGa. It is thus concluded that the Mg soluble in GaN by Mg ion implantation is increased by N ion implantation. The rest of the Mg atoms agglomerate to form clusters on the extended defects, and their concentration is also increased by the N implantation. The coarsening of extended defects is suppressed by the N ion implantation: the defects in the Mg+N‐implanted sample are nanoscale interstitial‐type defects, and they do not grow or annihilate after annealing. This indicates that the N implantation changes the concentrations of interstitials.
Nutrient transformations based on sampling scheme and cropping system following subsurface‐banded poultry litter
Authors: Ashworth A. J. , Amorim H. , Moore P. A. , Adams T. A. , Nieman C. , Owens P. R.
Published: April 2024

Poultry litter (PL) is an excellent source of micro‐ and macronutrients. However, surface applications result in greater nutrient runoff and nitrogen loss via ammonia volatilization. Subsurface banding PL is a promising technology for combating these challenges, but scant information exists on proper soil sampling techniques and management recommendations for subsurface‐applied PL. Therefore, objectives were to quantify the nutrient status based on sampling depth (0–15 cm and 15–30 cm) and schema (systematic [0, 3, 7, and 10 cm from PL bands] and composite) to develop subsurface PL recommendations per system (annual cropping and perennial pasture). Soil samples were collected during PL application (subsurface and surface) and 1, 6, 12, 18, and 24 months thereafter. On average, total N, Mehlich‐3 extractable P, and Mehlich‐3 extractable K were 15%, 96%, and 72% greater, respectively, for subsurface compared to surface applications. Further, Mehlich‐3 and water‐soluble P at the 0‐ to 15‐cm depth were 4–5 and 2–3 times greater in soils receiving subsurface PL in perennial pasture and row crop systems, respectively, compared to surface applications, likely owing to lesser nutrient losses to the air, soil, and water under subsurface PL systems. Compared to surface applications, subsurface PL increased (p < 0.05) N, P, and K crop removal by 75%, 70%, and 72%, respectively, and resulted in 80% and 78% yield increases and N‐use efficiency, respectively. Consequently, subsurface PL conserved greater N, P, and K at the 0‐ to 15‐cm depth, thus increasing nutrient‐use efficiency in row crop systems and improving water quality in sensitive watersheds.
Joint beam power and pointing management in multi‐beam low earth orbit and low earth orbit co‐existing satellite system
Authors: He Mengmin , Cui Gaofeng , Wu Mengjing , Wang Weidong
Published: April 2024

Recently, the low earth orbit (LEO) satellite has attracted much attention due to its advantages of low latency and construction costs. However, the scarcity of frequency spectrum resources has resulted in these satellites sharing the same spectrum to provide services for ground users. So, challenges such as overlapping beam coverage and inter‐beam interference occur in the multi‐beam LEO satellite coexistence scenario. Therefore, this paper focuses on the issue of interference coexistence in LEO and LEO (LEO–LEO) co‐existing scenario, where the initially established system is the primary system, and the later established system is the secondary system. The interference coexistence problem is modeled as a multi‐objective optimization problem. The joint beam power and pointing management (JBPPM) based on particle swarm optimization (PSO) is proposed. The power control is applied to the LEO satellites in the secondary system to reduce the interference to the primary system user. Meanwhile, beam pointing optimization is adopted by the LEO users in the secondary system to avoid interference from the primary system and ensure the minimum communication ability. The simulation results verify that the proposed technique can adapt to various coexistence conditions and outperform the existing method.
Design, Synthesis, Molecular Docking, and Anti‐Inflammatory Potential of Amide Coupling Carboxylate Derivatives
Authors: Akbar Hafiz Sajid , Muhammad Naveed , Jan Muhammad S. , Zafar Rehman , Ali Saqib , Sadia Halima , Alomar Taghrid S. , AlMasoud Najla , Rauf Abdur , Sharma Rohit
Published: April 2024

Eight new amide‐based carboxylate derivatives were synthesized and evaluated for anti‐inflammatory potentials using in‐vitro, in‐vivo and in silico studies. In cyclooxygenase‐2 assay, maximum percent antagonist potential was exhibited by sodium 4‐((4‐fluorophenyl) amino)‐4‐oxobutanoate (93.91 %), bis ((4‐((4‐methoxy‐2‐nitrophenyl)amino)‐4‐oxobutanoyl)oxy) zinc (93.04 %), and bis ((4‐((4‐bromo‐2‐fluorophenyl) amino)‐4‐oxobutanoyl)oxy)zincio (2‐bromopyridine) (92.64 %) with IC50 values of 1.65, 2.08, and 0.288 μM/ml respectively. Celecoxib demonstrated 98.60 % effect with an IC50 value of 0.041 μM/ml. In LOX assay, 4‐((4‐methoxy‐2‐nitrophenyl)amino)‐4‐oxobutanoic acid (97.03 %), bis ((4‐((4‐methoxy‐2‐nitrophenyl)amino)‐4‐oxobutanoyl)oxy)zinc (95.45 %), and (92.53 %) demonstrated maximum percent effect with IC50 values 3.48, 0.45, and 0.83 μM/ml respectively. The standard 5‐lipoxygenase inhibitor (montelukast) resulted from a 98.39 % inhibitory effect with an IC50 value of 0.194 μM/ml. In in‐vivo analysis, the potent tested compounds (5, 10, and, 20 mg/kg) significantly (p<0.001) reversed the induced edema by carrageenan. The standard drug aspirin displayed significant results (74–83 %). The standard drugs in these phlogestic agents displayed excellent results like cetirizine (67.9 %), celecoxib (81.61 %), icatibant (82.22 %) and nemesulide (87.17 %) at 5th h. The compounds displayed the inhibitory potential against targeted proteins. 4‐((4‐methoxy‐2‐nitrophenyl)amino)‐4‐oxobutanoic acid, 4‐((4‐fluorophenyl)amino)‐4‐oxobutanoic acid and sodium 4‐((4‐bromo‐2‐fluorophenyl)amino)‐4‐oxobutanoate shown excellent behavior by giving negative binding energies close of standard drugs montelukast (5F1A: −7.9 kcal/mol) and diclofenac (3O8Y: −8.5 Kcal/mol). The tested compounds were proven significant anti‐inflammatory potentials.
Evaluation of the anti‐PCOS Potential of Ethanolic Extract of Ocimum Gratissimum (Linn.) Leaf in Letrozole‐Induced Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome in Wistar Rats
Authors: Joy Femi‐Olabisi Fehintoluwa , Adebayo Ishola Ahmed , Ola Yusuf Babalola , Olanike Kolawole Ikeoluwapo , Adeola Adesoji Precious
Published: April 2024

This study investigated the effect of ethanolic extract of Ocimum gratissimum leaves (EEOGL) on letrozole‐induced polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and determine the possible binding effects of compounds identified in EEOGL using molecular docking method. After the induction using letrozole (1 mg/kg), normal (n=4) and PCOS (n=16; 4 groups of 4 animals/group) were treated for 14 days orally with distilled water (1 ml/kg), metformin (500 mg/kg), clomiphene‐citrate (2 mg/kg), and EEOGL (50 and 100 mg/kg). 47 compounds were docked to androgen receptor (AR), estrogen receptor (ER), fructose‐1,6‐bisphosphate (FBP), and phosphoenolpyruvate‐carboxykinase (PEPCK) using Vina. The result obtained revealed that letrozole‐induced PCOS rats exhibited altered oestrous cycle and administration of the EEOGL at 50 mg/kg significantly (p<0.05) decreased the serum insulin, testosterone, luteinizing hormone (LH), Low Density Lipoprotein (LDL), total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride while serum concentration of Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), estradiol, and High‐Density Lipoprotein (HDL) were significantly (p<0.05) increased compared to the control. However, administration of 100 mg/kg of the EEOGL did not reverse elevated insulin and LH levels. Molecular docking revealed four compounds with at high binding affinity for at least one of the proteins studied compared to standard drugs. Ethanolic extracts of O. gratissimum has the potential to regulate the reproductive‐induced alterations in PCOS rats.