bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Niche partitioning by sympatric civets in the Himalayan foothills of Pakistan
Authors: Akrim Faraz , Mahmood Tariq , Belant Jerrold L. , Nadeem Muhammad Sajid , Qasim Siddiqa , Dhendup Tashi , Fatima Hira , Bukhari Syed Afaq , Aslam Asad , Younis Humera , Rafique Aamish , Subhani Zahid Ahmed , Hashmi Shafqaat Ahmed , Munawar Nadeem
Published: February 2023

Niche overlap between sympatric species can indicate the extent of interspecific competition. Sympatric competing species can exhibit spatial, temporal, and dietary adjustments to reduce competition. We investigated spatial, temporal, and dietary niche overlap of sympatric Asian palm civet (Paradoxurus hermaphroditus) and small Indian civet (Viverricula indica), in and around Pir Lasura National Park, Pakistan. We used remote cameras to determine the frequency and timing of detections to estimate spatial and temporal overlap, and prey remains from scats to estimate dietary overlap. We collected scat samples of Asian palm civet (n = 108) and small Indian civet (n = 44) for dietary analysis. We found low spatial (Oij = 0.32) and temporal (Δ = 0.39) overlap, but high dietary niche overlap (0.9) between these two civet species. Both civet species were detected at only 11 camera sites and small Indian civets were detected most frequently during 2:00–5:00 h and 8:00–10:00 h, whereas Asian palm civets detections were greatest during 20:00–2:00 h. The overall niche breadth of Asian palm civet was slightly narrower (L = 9.69, Lst = 0.31) than that of the small Indian civet (L = 10, Lst = 0.52). We identified 27 dietary items (15 plant, 12 animal) from scats of Asian palm civet including Himalayan pear (Pyrus pashia; 27%), Indian gerbil (Tatera indica; 10%), Rhesus monkey (Macaca mulatta; 4%), and insects (5%). Scat analysis of small Indian civets revealed 17 prey items (eight plant, nine animal) including Himalayan pear (24%), domestic poultry (15%), Indian gerbil (11%), and house mouse (Mus musculus; 5%). Both civet species consumed fruits of cultivated orchard species. Spatial and temporal partitioning of landscapes containing diverse foods appears to facilitate coexistence between Asian palm civets and small Indian civets.
Meta-analytic evidence that allelopathy may increase the success and impact of invasive grasses
Authors: Singh Manya , Daehler Curtis C.
Published: February 2023

Background

In the grass family, a disproportionate number of species have been designated as being invasive. Various growth traits have been proposed to explain the invasiveness of grasses; however, the possibility that allelopathy gives invasive grasses a competitive advantage has attracted relatively little attention. Recent research has isolated plant allelochemicals that are mostly specific to the grass family that can breakdown into relatively stable, toxic byproducts.

Methods

We conducted a meta-analysis of studies on grass allelopathy to test three prominent hypotheses from invasion biology and competition theory: (1) on native recipients, non-native grasses will have a significantly more negative effect compared to native grasses (Novel Weapons Hypothesis); (2) among native grasses, their effect on non-native recipients will be significantly more negative compared to their effect on native recipients (Biotic Resistance Hypothesis); and (3) allelopathic impacts will increase with phylogenetic distance (Phylogenetic Distance Hypothesis). From 23 studies, we gathered a dataset of 524 observed effect sizes (delta log response ratios) measuring the allelopathic impact of grasses on growth and germination of recipient species, and we used non-linear mixed-effects Bayesian modeling to test the hypotheses.

Results

We found support for the Novel Weapons Hypothesis: on native recipients, non-native grasses were twice as suppressive as native grasses (22% vs 11%, respectively). The Phylogenetic Distance Hypothesis was supported by our finding of a significant correlation between phylogenetic distance and allelopathic impact. The Biotic Resistance Hypothesis was not supported. Overall, this meta-analysis adds to the evidence that allelochemicals may commonly contribute to successful or high impact invasions in the grass family. Increased awareness of the role of allelopathy in soil legacy effects associated with grass invasions may improve restoration outcomes through implementation of allelopathy-informed restoration practices. Examples of allelopathy-informed practices, and the knowledge needed to utilize them effectively, are discussed, including the use of activated carbon to neutralize allelochemicals and modify the soil microbial community.
Lime and Vermicompost Application to Acid Soils and Their Effects on Maize Yield and Yield Components in Lalo Asabi District, West Wollega Zone, Oromia, Ethiopia
Authors: Negese Wegene , Wogi Lemma
Published: February 2023

Soil acidity is one of the major yield-limiting factors for crop production worldwide, particularly on highly weathered and leached tropical soils. Different reports have indicated that there is significant soil acidity coverage in Ethiopia. In particularly, in the western part of the country, soil acidity is a well-known problem limiting crop production and productivity. As part of the solution to such a problem in soils, the combined application of lime and VC on maize has not been investigated in the area, in which maize was one of the potential cereal crops in the area. A field experiment was conducted at Lalo Asabi district in western Wollega during the 2020 cropping season to evaluate the responses of maize to the combined application of lime and vermicompost (VC). The experimental treatments were five rates of lime (CaCO3) (0, 25, 50, 75, and 100% of lime requirement (LR)) and three levels of vermicompost (0, 2.5, and 5 t ha-1). The treatments were arranged in factorial combinations in a randomized complete block design with three replications. One composite surface soil samples from a depth of (0-15 cm) was collected from the experimental field before the commencement of the experiment. Maize yield and yield components were measured following standard procedures. The yield components and yield results revealed the main effects of lime and VC showed a significant effect (p<0.05) on the number of days to 50% tasseling and silking, ear height, number of cobs per plant, number of grains per cob, thousand grain weight, above ground biomass, and harvest index of maize. However, days to 90% physiological maturity, plant height, cob length and grain yield of maize were significantly affected (p<0.05) by lime and VC interactions. Even though both were statistically equal, the combined application of lime at 100% LR + 5 t VC ha-1 yielded the highest grain yield (7.99 t ha-1) followed by the combined application of lime at 75% LR + 2.5 t VC ha-1 whereas the lowest grain yield (2.97 t ha-1) from control plots. The results of economic analysis indicated that the combination of lime at 75% LR + 2.5 t VC ha-1 showed a marginal rate of return of 2322.74%, with the highest net benefit of 49980 Ethiopian Birr compared to other treatments. This study indicates combined use of lime and VC could ameliorate the adverse effect of soil acidity, and application of 75% LR + 2.5 t VC ha1 enhances grain yield and produces the highest net benefit of maize grown on acidic soil of the Lalo Asabi district.
Preparation of Au/ZnO/Fe3O4 Composite for Degradation of Tartrazine under Visible Light
Authors: Quang Linh Vo , Vu Anh-Tuan
Published: February 2023

Zinc oxide has been shown to be a potential photocatalyst under UV light but its catalytic activity is limited under visible light due to its wide bandgap energy and rapid recombination of electrons and holes. Besides the catalytic recovery is a challenging issue because of its dispersion in solution. Previous work has shown that the interaction of gold nanoparticles with ZnO can reduce the band gap energy (Eg) and plasmon resonance (SPR) as well as the formation of the Schottky barrier in Au/ZnO composite can reduce the recombination of electrons and holes. In this study, Au/ZnO/Fe3O4 (AZF) composites were prepared by a simple mixing method using polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) as a binder. As-prepared composites were characterized by Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), UV-Vis Diffuse Reflectance (UV-Vis-DR), and Fourier Transform Infra Red (FT-IR). The catalytic efficiency of as-prepared samples was evaluated through the decomposition of tartrazine (TA), a colorant that is difficult to decompose in wastewater and has harmful effects on human health. The effects of reaction parameters such as the content of PVA, solution pH, and oxidizing agents (O2 and H2O2) on the catalytic efficiency were studied. The AZF at PVA of 0.0125 g showed the highest performance among as-prepared samples. With the presence of 12 mM H2O2 in the catalyst system, the degradation efficiency and reaction rate of TA in composite increased to 81.5% and 0.020 min−1, respectively. At this condition, photocatalysis and Fenton system catalysis occurred together. The catalytic mechanism of Tartrazine (TA) on composite was proposed and the reaction of TA was studied by the first-order kinetic model. Copyright © 2023 by Authors, Published by BCREC Group. This is an open access article under the CC BY-SA License (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0).
Accessibility of State and Territory Public Health Department Website Information on COVID-19 Outpatient Treatments in the US
Authors: Eckert Cody , Sanders Mechelle , Bharadwaj Rhea , Fiscella Kevin A.
Published: February 2023

This cross-sectional study assesses the reading level and accessibility of information on COVID-19 treatments posted on US public health websites for states, territories, and Washington, DC.
Codon adaptation by synonymous mutations impacts the functional properties of the estrogen receptor‐alpha protein in breast cancer cells
Authors: Clusan Léa , Percevault Frederic , Jullion Emmanuelle , Le Goff Pascale , Tiffoche Christophe , Fernandez‐Calero Tamara , Métivier Raphaël , Marin Monica , Pakdel Farzad , Michel Denis , Flouriot Gilles
Published: February 2023

Oestrogen receptor‐alpha (ERα) positivity is intimately associated with the development of hormone‐dependent breast cancers. A major challenge in the treatment of these cancers is to understand and overcome the mechanisms of endocrine resistance. Recently, two distinct translation programmes using specific transfer RNA (tRNA) repertoires and codon usage frequencies were evidenced during cell proliferation and differentiation. Considering the phenotype switch of cancer cells to more proliferating and less‐differentiated states, we can speculate that the changes in the tRNA pool and codon usage that likely occur make the ERα coding sequence no longer adapted, impacting translational rate, co‐translational folding and the resulting functional properties of the protein. To verify this hypothesis, we generated an ERα synonymous coding sequence whose codon usage was optimized to the frequencies observed in genes expressed specifically in proliferating cells and then investigated the functional properties of the encoded receptor. We demonstrate that such a codon adaptation restores ERα activities to levels observed in differentiated cells, including: (a) an enhanced contribution exerted by transactivation function 1 (AF1) in ERα transcriptional activity; (b) enhanced interactions with nuclear receptor corepressor 1 and 2 [NCoR1 and NCoR2 (also known as SMRT) respectively], promoting repressive capability; and (c) reduced interactions with SRC proto‐oncogene, non‐receptor tyrosine kinase (Src) and phosphoinositide 3‐kinase (PI3K) p85 kinases, inhibiting MAPK and AKT signalling pathway.
Sphingolipid abnormalities in encephalomyeloradiculoneuropathy (EMRN) are associated with an anti‐neutral glycolipid antibody
Authors: Mutoh Tatsuro , Ueda Akihiro , Niimi Yoshiki
Published: February 2023

Accumulating evidence suggests that various sphingolipids and glycosphingolipids can act as mediators for inflammation or signaling molecules in the nervous system. In this article, we explore the molecular basis of a new neuroinflammatory disorder called encephalomyeloradiculoneuropathy (EMRN), which affects the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves; in particular, we discuss whether glycolipid and sphingolipid dysmetabolism is present in patients with this disorder. This review will focus on the pathognomonic significance of sphingolipid and glycolipid dysmetabolism for the development of EMRN and the possible involvement of inflammation in the nervous system.
Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma
Authors: Carbone Michele , Gomez Daniel R. , Tsao Anne S. , Yang Haining , Pass Harvey I.
Published: February 2023

Overview

Malignant pleural mesothelioma is an aggressive malignancy with an incidence that may be peaking worldwide. While the majority of patients do ultimately die of this disease, there have been substantial treatment and diagnostic shifts over the past decade that may improve long‐term outcomes. These changes include worldwide interest in defining early detection biomarkers for the disease, a debate as to the optimal surgical approach (extrapleural pneumonectomy vs lung‐sparing methods such as pleurectomy/decortication), further refinement of radiation techniques that allow for conformal treatment fields and the delivery of radiation with the involved lung intact, and the emergence of systemic therapies that are targeted in nature and allow for the increased individualization of care. Indeed, prospective clinical trials assessing the safety and efficacy of novel treatment approaches will be essential to the standardization of paradigms that improve outcomes. It is hoped that the maturation of these efforts will lead to an optimal approach in which earlier stage patients will benefit from multiple modalities that will provide synergistic control while limiting toxicity, thereby increasing the number of long‐term survivors over the next one to two decades.
Role of Platelet‐Bound C4d (PC4d) in Predicting Risk of Future Thrombotic Events in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Gartshteyn Yevgeniya , Conklin John , Petri Michelle A. , Kyttaris Vasileios C. , Goldman Daniel W. , Kammesheidt Anja , Askanase Anca D. , Alexander Roberta Vezza
Published: February 2023

Objective

Platelet‐bound complement activation product C4d (PC4d) levels correlate with history of thrombosis in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The present study evaluated whether PC4d levels could assess risk of future thrombosis events.

Methods

PC4d level was measured by flow cytometry. Thromboses were confirmed by electronic medical record data review.

Results

The study included 418 patients. Nineteen events (13 arterial and 6 venous) occurred in 15 subjects in the 3 years post‐PC4d level measurement. PC4d levels above the optimum cutoff of 13 mean fluorescence intensity (MFI) predicted future arterial thrombosis with a hazard ratio of 4.34 (95% confidence interval [95% CI] 1.03–18.3) (P = 0.046) and a diagnostic odds ratio (OR) of 4.30 (95% CI 1.19–15.54). Negative predictive value of PC4d level of ≤13 MFI for arterial thrombosis was 99% (95% CI 97–100%). Although a PC4d level of >13 MFI did not reach statistical significance for prediction of total thrombosis (arterial and venous) (diagnostics OR 2.50 [95% CI 0.88–7.06]; P = 0.08), it was associated with all thrombosis (n = 70 historic and future arterial and venous events in the 5 years pre‐ to 3 years post‐PC4d level measurement) with an OR of 2.45 (95% CI 1.37–4.32; P = 0.0016). In addition, the negative predictive value of PC4d level of ≤13 MFI for all future thrombosis events was 97% (95% CI 95–99%).

Conclusions

A PC4d level of >13 MFI predicted future arterial thrombosis and was associated with all thrombosis. Patients with SLE presenting with a PC4d level of ≤13 MFI had high probability of not experiencing arterial or any thrombosis in the 3 years afterwards. Taken together, these findings indicate that PC4d levels may help predict the risk of future thrombosis events in SLE.
Zwitterionic Gradient Double‐Network Hydrogel Membranes with Superior Biofouling Resistance for Sustainable Osmotic Energy Harvesting
Authors: Huang Kang‐Ting , Hung Wen‐Hsin , Su Yu‐Chun , Tang Fu‐Cheng , Linh Lam Dieu , Huang Chun‐Jen , Yeh Li‐Hsien
Published: February 2023

Developing ion‐selective membranes with anti‐biofouling property and biocompatibility is highly crucial in harvesting osmotic energy in natural environments and for future biomimetic applications. However, the exploration of membranes with these properties in osmotic energy conversion remain largely unaddressed. Herein, a tough zwitterionic gradient double‐network hydrogel membrane (ZGDHM) with excellent biofouling resistance and cytocompatibility for sustainable osmotic energy harvesting is demonstrated. The ZGDHM, composed of negatively charged 2‐acrylamido‐2‐methylpropanesulfonic acid (AMPS) as the first scaffold network and zwitterionic sulfobetaine acrylamide (SBAA) as the second network, is prepared by a two‐step photopolymerization, thus creating continuous gradient double‐network nanoarchitecture and then remarkably enhanced mechanical properties. As verified by the experiments and simulations, the gradient nanoarchitecture endows the hydrogel membrane with apparent ionic diode effect and space‐charge‐governed transport property, thus facilitating directional ion transport. Consequently, the ZGDHM can achieve a power density of 5.44 W m−2 by mixing artificial seawater and river water, surpassing the commercial benchmark. Most importantly, the output power can be promoted to an unprecedented value of 49.6 W m−2 at the mixing of salt‐lake water and river water, nearly doubling up most of the existing nanofluidic membranes. This study paves a new avenue toward developing ultrahigh‐performance osmotic energy harvesters for biomimetic applications.
Ion‐Bolometric Effect in Grain Boundaries Enabled High Photovoltage Response for NIR to Terahertz Photodetection
Authors: Li Mengyao , Xu Hang , Wang Silei , Song Chunyu , Li Jitao , Liu Yanyan , Zhang Haijian , Zheng Chenglong , Zhang Yating , Yao Jianquan
Published: February 2023

The excellent performance of bolometers in the infrared and terahertz regions has attracted great attention. Understanding the transport process of charged particles is an efficient approach to determine detector performance. However, the lack of studies on the fine‐scale spatial motion of microscopic particles in bolometers has prevented a full understanding of the physical process. Herein, using micro‐nano‐scale optoelectronic performance correlation measurements, it is described how prevalent defect states at the grain boundaries (GBs) decrease current responses. Ions at the GBs of the polycrystalline perovskite bolometer contribute to the photocurrent via thermal excitons. In addition, the built‐in electric field established by ion migration fluctuates periodically with the strength of the light‐heating process due to the interaction between the bolometric effect and the Coulomb force. Additionally, the first ion‐bolometric detector is demonstrated with a significant photovoltage response to infrared and THz waves (75.3 kV W−1 at 1064 nm and 2.3 kV W−1 at 0.22 THz). An examination of the THz images shows the potential for large‐area THz imaging applications. The ion‐bolometric effect combines the broad spectral characteristics of the bolometer effect with the temperature sensitivity due to ion migration and provides a unique perspective on detector technology.
Resonant Coherent Acoustic Oscillation in Nanoscale Ruddlesden–Popper Perovskite Films
Authors: Zhang Zhen Yu , Wang Guo Ping
Published: February 2023

Time‐domain study of coherent acoustic phonons in nanomaterials provides dynamic and unparalleled insight into their mechanical and structural features. Ruddlesden–Popper (RP) perovskite shows excellent acoustic behaviors due to the large impedance mismatch between its hard perovskite frameworks and soft organic chains. However, the optical probe‐independent acoustic nano‐mechanical resonance and its real application in this important class of semiconductors have not yet been achieved. Herein, the acoustic breathing mode of resonant coherent phonons (RCP) in nanoscale RP perovskite films is reported. In contrast to the previously reported Brillouin mode in thick materials, such resonant breathing mode is no longer interfered by the optical probe, but as a self‐sustained acoustic oscillation source whose features are directly related to material geometry along the direction of phonon propagation. As a nano‐mechanical resonance, RCP oscillation is applied as a novel and non‐destructive approach for quantitatively evaluating the decomposition of moisture‐exposed RP perovskite. These results reveal the decisive effect of structural geometry on acoustic performances in perovskite nanomaterials. The nanoscale counterparts show evident advantages in acoustic mode modulation and structure detection.
Engineering the Pore Structure and Functionality of Ionic Porous Polymers for Separating Acetylene over Carbon Dioxide
Authors: Pan Hanqian , Suo Xian , Yang Zhenglu , Yang Lifeng , Cui Xili , Xing Huabin
Published: February 2023

Precise engineering of organic porous polymers to realize the selective separation of structurally similar gases presents a great challenge. In this study, a new class of ionic porous polymers P(Ph3Im‐Br‐nDVB) with a high ionic density and microporous surface area are constructed through a facile copolymerization strategy, providing an efficient path to rational control over pore structure and functionality. The first example of ionic porous organic polymers is reported to address the challenge of discriminating the subtle difference of C2H2 and CO2, which have almost identical molecular sizes and similar physicochemical properties, which achieve the highest C2H2/CO2 selectivity (17.9) among porous organic polymers. These ionic porous polymers exhibit high stability and excellent dynamic breakthrough performance for binary C2H2/CO2 mixtures, indicating their practical feasibility. Modeling studies reveal that anions are the specific binding sites for preferential C2H2 capture because of Br−···HCCH interactions. This study not only demonstrates an efficient strategy to build novel ionic porous polymers integrating abundant micropores and ionic sites but also sheds some light on the development of functionalized materials for the separation of structurally similar gas molecules.
Solid‐State Electrochemical Thermal Transistors
Authors: Yang Qian , Cho Hai Jun , Bian Zhiping , Yoshimura Mitsuki , Lee Joonhyuk , Jeen Hyoungjeen , Lin Jinghuang , Wei Jiake , Feng Bin , Ikuhara Yuichi , Ohta Hiromichi
Published: February 2023

Thermal transistors that electrically control heat flow have attracted growing attention as thermal management devices and phonon logic circuits. Although several thermal transistors are demonstrated, the use of liquid electrolytes may limit the application from the viewpoint of reliability or liquid leakage. Herein, a solid‐state thermal transistor that can electrochemically control the heat flow with an on‐to‐off ratio of the thermal conductivity (κ) of ≈4 without using any liquid is demonstrated. The thermal transistor is a multilayer film composed of an upper electrode, strontium cobaltite (SrCoOx), solid electrolyte, and bottom electrode. An electrochemical redox treatment at 280 °C in air repeatedly modulates the crystal structure and κ of the SrCoOx layer. The fully oxidized perovskite‐structured SrCoO3 layer shows a high κ ≈3 .8 W m−1 K−1, whereas the fully reduced defect perovskite‐structured SrCoO2 layer shows a low κ ≈ 0.95 W m−1 K−1. The present solid‐state electrochemical thermal transistor may become next‐generation devices toward future thermal management technology.
Reconfiguring Hard Carbons with Emerging Sodium‐Ion Batteries: A Perspective
Authors: Chu Yue , Zhang Jun , Zhang Yibo , Li Qi , Jia Yiran , Dong Ximan , Xiao Jing , Tao Ying , Yang Quan‐Hong
Published: February 2023

Hard carbons, an important category of amorphous carbons, are non‐graphitizable and are widely accepted as the most promising anode materials for emerging sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs)， because of their changeable low‐potential charge/discharge plateaus. However, their microstructures are not fixed and are difficult to accurately demonstrate as graphites do. The successful use of hard carbons in SIBs revives the interest to clearly picture their complicated microstructures that are in close relevance to sodium storage. In this review, the past definitions and structural models of hard carbons are revisited first, and a renewed understanding of their sodium storage is presented. Three critical structural features are highlighted for hard carbons, namely crystallites, defects, and nanopores, which are directly responsible for the presence of the low‐potential plateaus and their reversible extension. The impact of these structural features upon the sodium storage is then deeply discussed and sieving carbons is finally proposed as an ideal configuration of carbon anode for superhigh sodium storage. This review is expected to offer a clear picture of hard carbons, and help realize a truly rational design of high‐capacity carbon anodes, driving the industrialization of SIBs, and more promisingly open up a window for exploring their possible new uses.
Inverted Y‐shaped technique for complex superior mesenteric / portal vein reconstruction in pancreatoduodenectomy for locally advanced pancreatic head ductal adenocarcinoma
Authors: Kaluba Benson , Kuriyama Naohisa , Ito Takahiro , Tanemura Akihiro , Mizuno Shugo
Published: February 2023

Most pancreatoduodenectomy (PD) procedures for locally advanced pancreatic head adenocarcinoma (PDAC) require superior mesenteric/portal vein (SMV/PV) axis resection and reconstruction. Here we describe the inverted Y‐shaped as a new technique for complex SMV/PV reconstruction and aimed at evaluating its safety and effectiveness. Among 287 patients who underwent PD for locally advanced PDAC from April, 2007 to December, 2020 at our hospital, 11 patients (3.8%) who underwent PV/SMV reconstruction with this technique were enrolled. Briefly, two distal veins were slit‐wedged, sutured, resulting in one orifice, then reconstruction was completed with (n = 6) or without (n = 5) interposed autologous right external iliac vein (REIV) grafts, respectively. Operation time and blood loss were 649 (502–822) min and 1782 (475–6680) mL, respectively. The median length of resected SMV/PV was 40 (20–70) mm, 50 (50–70) mm for REIV grafts, and the splenic vein was resected in eight patients. No patient developed pancreatic fistula; mild leg edema was observed in the six graft patients and the median hospital stay was 36.0 d. PV patency rate at 2 mo after PD was 91% (10/11) and no 90‐d mortality was recorded. R0 resection rate was 91% (10/11). It is feasible to safely reconstruct the SMV/PV using the inverted Y‐shaped technique in appropriately selected PDAC patients.
Circadian Rest–Activity Rhythms, Delirium Risk, and Progression to Dementia
Authors: Gao Lei , Li Peng , Gaykova Nicole , Zheng Xi , Gao Chenlu , Lane Jacqueline M. , Saxena Richa , Scheer Frank A. J. L. , Rutter Martin K. , Akeju Oluwaseun , Hu Kun
Published: February 2023

Objective

Delirium is a complex neurocognitive syndrome suspected to be bidirectionally linked to dementia. Circadian rhythm disturbances likely contribute to dementia pathogenesis, but whether these disturbances are related to delirium risk and progression to all‐cause dementia is unknown.

Methods

We analyzed continuous actigraphy data from 53,417 middle‐aged or older UK Biobank participants during a median 5 years of follow‐up. Four measures were used to characterize the 24‐hour daily rest–activity rhythms (RARs): normalized amplitude, acrophase representing the peak activity time, interdaily stability, and intradaily variability (IV) for fragmentation of the rhythm. Cox proportional hazards models examined whether RARs predicted incident delirium (n = 551) and progression to dementia (n = 61).

Results

Suppressed 24‐hour amplitude, lowest (Q1) versus highest (Q4) quartile (hazard ratio [HR]Q1 vs Q4= 1.94, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.53–2.46,p < 0.001), and more fragmented (higher IV: HRQ4 vs Q1= 1.49, 95% CI = 1.18–1.88,p < 0.001) rhythms predicted higher delirium risk, after adjusting for age, sex, education, cognitive performance, sleep duration/disturbances, and comorbidities. In those free from dementia, each hour of delayed acrophase was associated with delirium risk (HR = 1.13, 95% CI = 1.04–1.23,p = 0.003). Suppressed 24‐hour amplitude was associated with increased risk of progression from delirium to new onset dementia (HR = 1.31, 95% CI = 1.03–1.67,p = 0.03 for each 1‐standard deviation decrease).

Interpretation

Twenty‐four‐hour daily RAR suppression, fragmentation, and potentially delayed acrophase were associated with delirium risk. Subsequent progression to dementia was more likely in delirium cases with suppressed rhythms. The presence of RAR disturbances before delirium and prior to progression to dementia suggests that these disturbances may predict higher risk and be involved in early disease pathogenesis. ANN NEUROL 2023;93:1145–1157
Incidence of Orofacial Manifestations of Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis From Diagnosis to Adult Care Transition: A Population‐Based Cohort Study
Authors: Glerup Mia , Tagkli Aikaterini , Küseler Annelise , Christensen Anne E. , Verna Carlalberta , Bilgrau Anders E. , Nørholt Sven Erik , Herlin Troels , Pedersen Thomas K. , Stoustrup Peter
Published: February 2023

Objective

To estimate the cumulative incidences of orofacial conditions related to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) between diagnosis in childhood to transition into adult care, and to identify features in JIA associated with TMJ involvement.

Methods

A population‐based cohort analysis was conducted of patients with JIA involving longitudinal data on orofacial health from 2000 to 2018. Regardless of TMJ status, the patients were referred to the Regional Specialist Craniofacial Clinic of Western Denmark for routine orofacial examinations. Data collection included information about disease‐specific background characteristics, TMJ involvement, JIA‐induced dentofacial deformity, and orofacial symptoms and dysfunction.

Results

A total of 613 patients were followed up with a mean clinical TMJ observation time of 4.0 years. From JIA onset to transition into adult care, the cumulative incidence of patients with JIA involvement of the TMJ was 30.1%. Furthermore, 20.6% of the cohort had developed arthritis‐induced dentofacial deformity. A substantial proportion of the cohort experienced several events with orofacial symptoms (23.5%) and dentofacial dysfunction (52%). Young age at diagnosis (<9 years), female gender, and antinuclear antibody positivity were significantly associated with TMJ involvement.

Conclusion

Orofacial signs and symptoms were frequent findings in children and adolescents with JIA. TMJ involvement was seen in 30.1% of the cohort; and 20.6% of the total cohort developed JIA‐related dentofacial deformity before transition into adult care. This is the first population‐based study in the era of available biologic treatments to document these frequent orofacial complications in children with JIA.
Flexible Gel Polymer Electrolytes Based on Carboxymethyl Cellulose Blended with Polyvinyl Alcohol or Polyacrylic Acid for Zinc‐Air Batteries
Authors: García‐Gaitán Estibaliz , Frattini Domenico , Ruiz de Larramendi Idoia , Martínez‐Ibáñez María , González Daniel , Armand Michel , Ortiz‐Vitoriano Nagore
Published: February 2023

Flexible zinc‐air batteries are based on gel polymer electrolytes (GPE), soft, semi‐solid components devoted to liquid electrolyte retention, ion conduction, and mechanical stability. Many synthetic polymers, and their blends, have been used in early works due to the good compromise between ionic conductivity, electrolyte retention, and mechanical resistance. Naturally occurring biopolymers are a great alternative to increase the sustainability of GPE, but present properties are not sufficient. In this work, the blending of carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) with polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) or polyacrylic acid (PAA) is studied together with synthesis, cross‐linking, and liquid electrolyte embedding method. The CMC : PAA (1 : 2) composite, with ex‐situ gel embedding of 8 M KOH electrolyte achieved ionic conductivity of 0.231 S cm−1 at room temperature, high liquid electrolyte uptake and retention, providing a 78 % of zinc utilization and 443.19 Wh kg−1 as energy density for assembled primary zinc‐air battery. The CMC : PAA and CMC : PVA also showed unexpected self‐healing behavior activated by re‐wetting with liquid KOH solution and drying.
The sublingual branch of the lingual nerve: Anatomical study and suggestion for a new terminology
Authors: Iwanaga Joe , Jackson Neal , Toriumi Taku , Kageyama Ikuo , Reina Francisco , Carrera Ana , Fukino Keiko , Kitagawa Norio , Tubbs R. Shane
Published: February 2023

The lingual nerve carries somatosensory fibers from the anterior two‐thirds of tongue. The parasympathetic preganglionic fibers arising from the chorda tympani also travel with the lingual nerve in the infratemporal fossa to synapse in the submandibular ganglion to innervate the sublingual gland. However, only a few studies have investigated the specific nerve that innervates the sublingual gland and surrounding tissue i.e., the so‐called sublingual nerve. Therefore, this study aimed to clarify the anatomy and definition of the sublingual nerves. Thirty sides from formalin fixed cadaveric hemiheads underwent microsurgical dissection of the sublingual nerves. The sublingual nerves were found on all sides and categorized into three branches, i.e., branches to the sublingual gland, branches to the mucosa of the floor of the mouth, and gingival branches. Additionally, branches to the sublingual gland were subcategorized into types I and II based on the origin of the sublingual nerve. We suggest that the lingual nerve branches should be categorized into five branches, i.e., branches to the isthmus of the fauces, sublingual nerves, lingual branches, posterior branch to the submandibular ganglion, and branches to the sublingual ganglion.
Peripheral lymphocytes and lactate dehydrogenase correlate with response and survival in head and neck cancers treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors
Authors: Pan Cassie , Wu Qian Vicky , Voutsinas Jenna , Houlton Jeffrey J. , Barber Brittany , Rizvi Zain H. , Marchiano Emily , Futran Neal , Laramore George E. , Liao Jay J. , Parvathaneni Upendra , Martins Renato G. , Fromm Jonathan R. , Rodriguez Cristina P.
Published: February 2023

Background

Little is known regarding associations between peripheral blood biomarkers (PBBMs) and survival, response, and toxicity in recurrent/metastatic head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (R/M HNSCC) treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs).

Methods

In this single‐institution retrospective cohort study, a dataset of patients with R/M HNSCC treated with ICIs between 08/2012–03/2021 was established, including demographic and clinicopathologic characteristics. Pretreatment PBBMs were collected and evaluated for associations with grade ≥3 adverse events (G ≥ 3AE) by CTCAEv5, objective response (ORR) by RECIST 1.1, overall survival (OS), and progression‐free survival (PFS). Multivariable models for each outcome were created using elastic net variable selection.

Results

Our study included 186 patients, with 51 (27%) demonstrating complete or partial response to immunotherapy. Multivariable models adjusted for ECOG performance status (PS), p16, and smoking demonstrated that pretreatment higher LDH and absolute neutrophils, as well as lower percent lymphocytes correlated with worse OS and PFS. Higher LDH and lower % lymphocytes also correlated with worse ORR.

Conclusions

In the largest study to date examining PBBMs in ICI‐treated R/M HNSCCs, our variable selection method revealed PBBMs prognostic for survival and response to immunotherapy. These biomarkers warrant further investigation in a prospective study along with validation with CPS biomarker.
Role of tumor microenvironment in cancer progression and therapeutic strategy
Authors: Wang Qingjing , Shao Xueting , Zhang Yuxuan , Zhu Miaojin , Wang Frederick X. C. , Mu Jianjian , Li Jiaxuan , Yao Hangping , Chen Keda
Published: February 2023

Cancer is now considered a tumor microenvironment (TME) disease, although it was originally thought to be a cell and gene expression disorder. Over the past 20 years, significant advances have been made in understanding the complexity of the TME and its impact on responses to various anticancer therapies, including immunotherapies. Cancer immunotherapy can recognize and kill cancer cells by regulating the body's immune system. It has achieved good therapeutic effects in various solid tumors and hematological malignancies. Recently, blocking of programmed death‐1 (PD‐1), programmed death‐1 ligand‐1 (PD‐L1), and programmed death Ligand‐2 (PD‐L2), the construction of antigen chimeric T cells (CAR‐T) and tumor vaccines have become popular immunotherapies Tumorigenesis, progression, and metastasis are closely related to TME. Therefore, we review the characteristics of various cells and molecules in the TME, the interaction between PD‐1 and TME, and promising cancer immunotherapy therapeutics.
Modeling and Control of Beer Fermentation for Optimal Flavor and Performance
Authors: Yerolla Raju , Nekkanti Sri Harsha , Pullanikkattil Suhailam , Besta Chandra Shekar
Published: February 2023

Beer has been consumed for millennia and fermentation is crucial to the brewing process. The process requires bacteria, yeast, and carbohydrates. The temperature has the most significant influence on the beer quality as the fermentation temperature affects the fruitiness and acidity. In this work, a growth and a taste model are built for the beer fermentation process. The dynamic model simulation findings are compared and validated with industry data reported in the literature. The temperature must be regulated to maintain the consistency and flavor of the beer. The dynamic model determines the optimal controller settings for maximizing energy efficiency. To get the optimal taste profile, the proportional‐integral/proportional‐integral‐derivative controller is used to obtain optimal temperature control.
Recent Progress in Co3O4‐Based Nanomaterials for Supercapacitors
Authors: Lu Congcong , Liu Lingran , Yang Yu , Ma Yunping , Luo Qiao , Zhu Maiyong
Published: February 2023

Supercapacitors which have been widely used in portable electronics and hybrid electric vehicles are considered to be fascinating energy storage devices owing to their higher energy density than traditional capacitors and higher power density than batteries. The performance of supercapacitors is much dependent on the properties of the used electrode materials, and much effort has been devoted to exploring high‐performance electrodes. During the past decade, cobalt‐based materials, especially Co3O4 and its composites, have been regarded as prominent electrode materials for supercapacitors in view of their relatively low cost, high theoretical specific capacitance, non‐toxicity, and excellent electrochemical activity. In this review, we attempt to provide some basic insights into the rational design of Co3O4 based materials/composites and their capacitive properties for supercapacitors. The electrochemical advantages of Co3O4 as a supercapacitor material are summarized, and many examples are illustrated. The remaining challenges in exploration of Co3O4‐based materials as efficient electrodes for supercapacitors are also discussed and the future research directions are offered.
Love's a dance you learn as you go: Evidence for interpersonal complementarity during romantic conflict and its association with relationship outcomes
Authors: Slotter Erica B. , Markey Patrick M. , Audigier Alexis , Dashineau Samantha C. , Finkel Eli J. , Luchies Laura B.
Published: February 2023

High‐quality romantic bonds benefit people. Extant literature has explored many individual and relational factors that contribute to high‐quality relationships, yet research on how moment‐to‐moment behaviours predict quality is still in the nascent stages. The current study explored interpersonal complementarity on warmth and dominance as one index of moment‐to‐moment interaction dynamics in romantic relationships. The sample included 180 couples (360 individuals), examined at 10‐s intervals, over the course of an 8‐min conflict discussion. Analysis confirmed the predicted pattern of complementarity such that people adjusted their behaviours in response to their partner's behaviour, engaging in similar levels of warmth and opposite levels of dominance (Hypothesis 1). Additionally, results revealed that relationship length was logarithmically related to dominance complementarity, whereas it was not significantly related to warmth complementarity (Hypothesis 2). Finally, dominance and warmth complementarity were differentially associated with numerous relational constructs (Hypothesis 3a/3b).
International Student Mobility in 2023
Authors: Dennis Marguerite J.
Published: February 2023

In May 2022, UNESCO's Institute for Statistics reported that in 2000 just over two million people studied abroad. By 2019 the number had almost tripled to nearly six million. And in September 2022, the IMARC Group published “Higher Education Market: Global Industry Trends, Share Size, Growth, Opportunity and Forecast 2022–2027,” detailing why the higher education market is expected to grow by 20.37% over the next five years.
Bio‐Graphene Sensors for Monitoring Moisture Levels in Wood and Ambient Environment
Authors: Mulla Mohammad Yusuf , Isacsson Patrik , Dobryden Illia , Beni Valerio , Östmark Emma , Håkansson Karl , Edberg Jesper
Published: February 2023

Wood is an inherently hygroscopic material which tends to absorb moisture from its surrounding. Moisture in wood is a determining factor for the quality of wood being employed in construction, since it causes weakening, deformation, rotting, and ultimately leading to failure of the structures resulting in costs to the economy, the environment, and to the safety of residents. Therefore, monitoring moisture in wood during the construction phase and after construction is vital for the future of smart and sustainable buildings. Employing bio‐based materials for the construction of electronics is one way to mitigate the environmental impact of such electronics. Herein, a bio‐graphene sensor for monitoring the moisture inside and around wooden surfaces is fabricated using laser‐induced graphitization of a lignin‐based ink precursor. The bio‐graphene sensors are used to measure humidity in the range of 10% up to 90% at 25 °C. Using laser induced graphitization, conductor resistivity of 18.6 Ω sq−1 is obtained for spruce wood and 57.1 Ω sq−1 for pine wood. The sensitivity of sensors fabricated on spruce and pine wood is 2.6 and 0.74 MΩ per % RH. Surface morphology and degree of graphitization are investigated using scanning electron microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and thermogravimetric analysis methods.
Maternity care provision for women living with female genital mutilation/cutting: A qualitative study from a high asylum‐seeking dispersal context in the UK
Authors: Turner Jessica , Tancred Tara
Published: February 2023

Objective

To explore the perspectives of midwives and obstetrician/gynaecologists providing maternity care to women living with female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C) in a high asylum‐seeker dispersal area in the North West of England.

Methods

We carried out a qualitative study in four hospitals providing maternal health services within the North West of England, with the highest population of asylum‐seeking individuals (many from high‐prevalence FGM/C countries) in the UK. Participants included 13 practicing midwives and an obstetrician/gynaecologist. In‐depth interviews were conducted with study participants. Data collection and analysis were carried out concurrently until theoretical saturation was reached. Data were analysed thematically to generate three key overarching themes.

Results

There is a disconnect between Home Office dispersal policy and healthcare policy. Participants indicated that there was inconsistent identification or disclosure of FGM/C, constraining appropriate follow‐up and care prior to labour and childbirth. All participants noted existing safeguarding policies and protocols, which were seen by most as being important to protect female dependants, but potentially detrimental to the patient‐provider relationship and to the woman's care. Unique challenges around accessing and maintaining continuity of care for asylum‐seeking women due to dispersal schemes were indicated. All participants highlighted a lack of specialised training for FGM/C to support provision of clinically appropriate and culturally sensitive care.

Conclusions

There is a clear need for harmony between health and social policy as well as specialised training that centres holistic wellbeing for the woman living with FGM/C, particularly where there are increased numbers of asylum‐seeking women from high‐prevalence FGM/C countries.
Self‐care for coronavirus disease through electronic health technologies: A scoping review
Authors: Asadi Farkhondeh , Rahimi Fatemeh , Ghaderkhany Shady , Almasi Sohrab
Published: February 2023

Background and Aims

Considering the rapid spread and transmission of COVID‐19 and its high mortality rate, self‐care practices are of special importance during this pandemic to prevent and control the spread of the virus. In this regard, electronic health systems can play a major role in improving self‐care practices related to coronavirus disease. This study aimed to review the electronic health technologies used in each of the constituent elements of the self‐care (self‐care maintenance, self‐care monitoring, and self‐care management) during the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Methods

This scoping review was conducted based on Arksey and O'Malley's framework. In this study, the specific keywords related to “electronic health,” “self‐care,” and “COVID‐19” were searched on PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Google.

Results

Of the 47 articles reviewed, most articles (27 articles) were about self‐care monitoring and aimed to monitor the vital signs of patients. The results showed that the use of electronic health tools mainly focuses on training in the control and prevention of coronavirus disease during this pandemic, in the field of self‐care maintenance, and medication management, communication, and consultation with healthcare providers, in the field of self‐care management. Moreover, the most commonly used electronic health technologies were mobile web applications, smart vital signs monitoring devices, and social networks, respectively.

Conclusion

The study findings suggested that the use of electronic health technologies, such as mobile web applications and social networks, can effectively improve self‐care practices for coronavirus disease. In addition, such technologies can be applied by health policymakers and disease control and prevention centers to better manage the COVID‐19 pandemic.