bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Immune signature of patients with cardiovascular disease predicts increased risk for a severe course of COVID‐19
Authors: Günter Manina , Mueller Karin Anne Lydia , Salazar Mathew J. , Gekeler Sarah , Prang Carolin , Harm Tobias , Gawaz Meinrad Paul , Autenrieth Stella E.
Published: August 2024

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus type 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) infection can lead to life‐threatening clinical manifestations. Patients with cardiovascular disease (CVD) are at higher risk for severe courses of COVID‐19. So far, however, there are hardly any strategies for predicting the course of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection in CVD patients at hospital admission. Thus, we investigated whether this prediction is achievable by prospectively analysing the blood immunophenotype of 94 nonvaccinated participants, including uninfected and acutely SARS‐CoV‐2‐infected CVD patients and healthy donors, using a 36‐colour spectral flow cytometry panel. Unsupervised data analysis revealed little differences between healthy donors and CVD patients, whereas the distribution of the cell populations changed dramatically in SARS‐CoV‐2‐infected CVD patients. The latter had more mature NK cells, activated monocyte subsets, central memory CD4+ T cells, and plasmablasts but fewer dendritic cells, CD16+ monocytes, innate lymphoid cells, and CD8+ T‐cell subsets. Moreover, we identified an immune signature characterised by CD161+ T cells, intermediate effector CD8+ T cells, and natural killer T (NKT) cells that is predictive for CVD patients with a severe course of COVID‐19. Thus, intensified immunophenotype analyses can help identify patients at risk of severe COVID‐19 at hospital admission, improving clinical outcomes through specific treatment.
Nano‐encapsulated flaxseed oil has the potential to enhance omega‐3 fatty acid profile and modulate hepatic fatty acid–related gene expression in broiler chickens
Authors: Miraeez Seyedeh Fatemeh , Abbasi Fatemeh , Ansari Mahdi , Samadi Firooz
Published: August 2024

Chicken meat enrichment with n − 3 long‐chain polyunsaturated fatty acid (LCPUFA) is a viable delivery route for these bioactive compounds to humans. This study was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of nano‐constructed flaxseed oil on growth performance, the deposition of n − 3 LCPUFA in meat, and the expression of some hepatic genes involved in lipid metabolism. One hundred and eighty‐one‐day‐old Ross 308 chicks were randomly allocated to three treatments. Birds received either basal diet (control), FlxO (basal diet plus 1 mL kg−1 body weight [BW] oral flaxseed oil), or NanoFlxO (basal diet plus 1 mL kg−1 BW oral flaxseed oil nanoemulsion) treatments. In comparison to the control, both bulk and nano‐form flaxseed oil resulted in increased BW but decreased feed conversion ratio (p < 0.05). Birds in the NanoFlxO group had a reduced saturated fatty acid content of breast meat compared to the control group (p > 0.05). The breast meat was more effective than thigh muscle in the accumulation of eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid following NanoFlxo treatment. The ratio of n − 6/n − 3 PUFA was significantly lower in the breast and thigh meats following both flaxseed oil treatments. The n − 3 LCPUFA incorporation rate was two times higher in broilers that were given NanoFlxO in comparison to those fed FlaxO. The highest transcript levels of acyl coenzyme A (CoA) oxidase 1, lipoprotein lipase, and carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1 were observed in birds fed NanoFlxO. In conclusion, NanoFlxO has a promising potential to enrich the n − 3 LCPUFA content of chicken meat as well as improve lipid metabolism.

Practical Applications: This study offers further insights into the fortification of chicken meat with omega‐3 fatty acids, essential nutrients that cannot be synthesized by human body but are crucial for overall health. In a wider perspective, this could serve as a safe and practical approach to produce omega‐3 enriched meat rather than relying on supplements that may have potential side effects. Moreover, the findings of this research could pave the way to utilize nanocarriers in upcoming research in the fields of bioactive‐enriched poultry products.
Prof. Dr. Sandeep Verma,*[a] and Prof. Dr. Alexander Heckel*[b]
Authors: Verma Sandeep , Heckel Alexander Heckel
Published: August 2024

In recent years, the research collaboration between Indian and German scientists has flourished, underscored by a deep commitment to fostering collaboration in science across various domains between the two countries. Held since 2006, the Indo‐German Chemistry Workshops have been a testament to this collaborative spirit. These workshops, organized by various hosts, have alternated between locations in India and Germany. The purpose of these workshops is to bring together scientists from different disciplines of chemical sciences and chemical engineering, and work on diverse emerging topics to form new alliances and joint publications, while preparing ground for new projects. They have been instrumental in breaking down disciplinary barriers and fostering interdisciplinary collaborations having the potential for groundbreaking innovations. This Guest Editorial introduces Indo‐German Workshop series and their high‐quality research output showcased as “Research consortia & Institute Features: Indo‐German Workshops (2011–2022)” – a joint special collection from the European Journal of Organic Chemistry (EurJOC), Chemistry‐A European Journal (CEJ) and Chemistry‐An Asian Journal (CAJ). This collection highlights important contributions to various domains of chemistry through research articles and reviews authored by faculty members from different institutes in India and Germany, who were past participants of these Indo‐German workshops.
Sub‐bundle based analysis reveals the role of human optic radiation in visual working memory
Authors: Wang Yanming , Wang Huan , Hu Sheng , Nguchu Benedictor Alexander , Zhang Du , Chen Shishuo , Ji Yang , Qiu Bensheng , Wang Xiaoxiao
Published: August 2024

White matter (WM) functional activity has been reliably detected through functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). Previous studies have primarily examined WM bundles as unified entities, thereby obscuring the functional heterogeneity inherent within these bundles. Here, for the first time, we investigate the function of sub‐bundles of a prototypical visual WM tract—the optic radiation (OR). We use the 7T retinotopy dataset from the Human Connectome Project (HCP) to reconstruct OR and further subdivide the OR into sub‐bundles based on the fiber's termination in the primary visual cortex (V1). The population receptive field (pRF) model is then applied to evaluate the retinotopic properties of these sub‐bundles, and the consistency of the pRF properties of sub‐bundles with those of V1 subfields is evaluated. Furthermore, we utilize the HCP working memory dataset to evaluate the activations of the foveal and peripheral OR sub‐bundles, along with LGN and V1 subfields, during 0‐back and 2‐back tasks. We then evaluate differences in 2bk‐0bk contrast between foveal and peripheral sub‐bundles (or subfields), and further examine potential relationships between 2bk‐0bk contrast and 2‐back task d‐prime. The results show that the pRF properties of OR sub‐bundles exhibit standard retinotopic properties and are typically similar to the properties of V1 subfields. Notably, activations during the 2‐back task consistently surpass those under the 0‐back task across foveal and peripheral OR sub‐bundles, as well as LGN and V1 subfields. The foveal V1 displays significantly higher 2bk‐0bk contrast than peripheral V1. The 2‐back task d‐prime shows strong correlations with 2bk‐0bk contrast for foveal and peripheral OR fibers. These findings demonstrate that the blood oxygen level‐dependent (BOLD) signals of OR sub‐bundles encode high‐fidelity visual information, underscoring the feasibility of assessing WM functional activity at the sub‐bundle level. Additionally, the study highlights the role of OR in the top‐down processes of visual working memory beyond the bottom‐up processes for visual information transmission. Conclusively, this study innovatively proposes a novel paradigm for analyzing WM fiber tracts at the individual sub‐bundle level and expands understanding of OR function.
Can Marburg virus be sexually transmitted?
Authors: Karami Hassan , Letafati Arash , Fakhr Somayeh Sadat Hosseini
Published: August 2024

Background and Aim

Marburg virus (MARV) is a highly virulent virus of animal origin and the cause of a lethal infection (known as Marburg virus disease [MVD]) with a case‐fatality ratio ranging from 24% to 90%. While the potential nonzoonotic routes of virus spread are plausible, the risk is not yet fully determined. Here, we described the ways by which MARV spreads within the human population focusing mainly on the potential of sexual transmission. In addition, we addressed some measures that should be taken to minimize the risk of sexual spread of the virus and proposed a future research agenda on the risk of sexual transmission.

Methods

For this perspective, we searched four electronic databases (i.e., PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar) and included the most relevant studies published since the first identification of the virus in 1967. We used “Marburg virus,” “Marburg virus disease,” “Seminal fluid,” “Sexually‐transmitted virus,” “Sexual transmission,” and “Emerging infectious disease” as keywords.

Results

MARV is transmitted to humans via both direct and indirect contact with infected animals (most importantly bats) and individuals who have recently been diagnosed with or died of the disease. The virus transmission through sexual contact has been previously suspected (exclusively from men to their sexual partners). Studies suggest that this virus persists predominantly in testicular Sertoli cells within seminiferous tubules over a relatively long period and is released through seminal fluid (in some reports >200 days post onset of infection) both could potentially threaten sexual health. In addition to men, women could theoretically, although less probably contribute to the sexual transmission of the disease.

Conclusion

MVD, however, rarely, could be passed through sex, and men appear to be the main carriers in this regard. Taking preventive countermeasures and practicing safe sex are recommended to reduce the risk of interhuman transmission.
Ductile inorganic semiconductors for deformable electronics
Authors: Li Xiaocui , Chen Fu‐Rong , Lu Yang
Published: August 2024

Traditionally, it is relatively easy to process metal materials and polymers (plastics), while ceramic and inorganic semiconductor materials are hard to process, due to their intrinsic brittleness caused by directional covalent bonds or the strong electrostatic interactions among ionic species. The brittleness of semiconductor materials, which may degrade their functional performance and cause catastrophic failures, has excluded them from many application scenarios. The exploration on room‐temperature ductile semiconductors has been a long pursuit of mankind for fabricating deformable and more robust electronics. Guided by this goal, researchers have already found that the plasticity of brittle semiconductors can be enhanced by size effects, which include fewer pre‐existing micro‐cracks and increased dislocation activity, charge characteristics, and defect density. It has also been explored that a few quasi‐layered/van der Waals semiconductors can have exceptional room‐temperature metal‐like plasticity, enabled by the relatively weak interlayer bonding and easy interlayer gliding. More recently, intrinsic exceptional plasticity has been found in a group of all‐inorganic perovskites (CsPbX3, X = Cl, Br and I), which can be morphed into distinct morphologies through multislip at room temperature, without affecting their functional properties and bandgap energy. Based on the above research status, in this review, we will discuss and present the relevant works on the plasticity found in inorganic semiconductors and the proposed deformation mechanisms. The potential applications and bottlenecks of plastic semiconductors in manufacturing next‐generation deformable electronic/optoelectronic devices and energy systems will also be discussed.
Mechanism of desuccinylation of G6PD mediated by SIRT7 to promote vitiligo disease progression
Authors: Yang Yiyun , Long Haidong , Long Lan , Guo Bin
Published: August 2024

Background

Sirtuin 7 (SIRT7) is pivotal in diverse diseases progression. Importantly, SIRT7 is associated with melanin production. However, whether SIRT7 regulates vitiligo is unclear. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the effects of SIRT7 on pigmentation and the modification of glucose 6‐phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD).

Methods

After knockdown SIRT7 and G6PD, pigmentation of melanocytes was evaluated using commercial kits, immunofluorescence, and Western blot analysis. The succinylation of G6PD mediated by SIRT7 was analyzed using co‐immunoprecipitation, immunofluorescence, Western blot analysis, and cycloheximide‐chase experiment.

Results

We found that SIRT7 was highly expressed in vitiligo skin lesions. Knockdown of SIRT7 increased tyrosinase activity, melanin content, and the levels of α‐melanocyte‐stimulating hormone, MITF, TYR, TRP1, and TRP2. Additionally, SIRT7 directly interacted with G6PD. Silenced SIRT7 promoted the succinylation of G6PD and enhanced its protein stability. G6PD knockdown reversed the effect of reduced SIRT7 expression on melanin production.

Conclsuion

Silencing of SIRT7 promotes pigmentation of melanocytes by succinylating G6PD, suggesting that SIRT7‐mediated G6PD desuccinylation may promote vitiligo progression.
Prolonged second stage of labor and risk of postpartum hemorrhage in nullipara with epidural anesthesia and vaginal delivery: A cohort study with propensity score analysis
Authors: Liang Shuang , Zheng Wenguang , Zhao Ying , Su Baotong , Cui Hongyan , Lv Yan , Jia Yanjiu , Chen Xu
Published: August 2024

Objective

To conduct an analysis using propensity score methods, exploring the association between a prolonged second stage (>3 h) and the risk of postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) in a diverse population.

Methods

We conducted a prospective cohort study involving nullipara with epidural anesthesia and vaginal delivery, aged ≥18 years, presenting cephalically, and with a gestational age (GA) of ≥24 weeks at a tertiary maternity hospital in China (chictr.org.cn identifier: ChiCTR2200063094). Women undergoing emergency cesarean section in labor were excluded. The primary outcome was PPH, with secondary outcomes including severe postpartum hemorrhage and blood transfusion. We employed propensity score overlap weighting to analyze the association between prolonged second stage labor and PPH.

Results

The study included 3643 nullipara with epidural anesthesia, comprising 77 with a second stage of labor >3 h and 3566 with a second stage ≤3 h. Utilizing propensity score overlap weighting, there were no significant differences observed between the two groups regarding the risk of PPH (29.87% in >3 h group vs 17.64% in ≤3 h group; weighted odds ratio 1.01; 95% CI: 0.51–2.02). Subgroup interaction tests for PPH were not significant for assisted vaginal delivery, induction of labor, macrosomia, third‐/fourth‐degree perineal laceration, GA >41 weeks, twin pregnancies, episiotomy and GA >37 weeks. Sensitivity analysis did not reveal significant differences.

Conclusion

This study did not find evidence supporting an increased risk of PPH associated with a second stage of labor lasting >3 h in our population, providing additional evidence for clinical practice.
The value of routine hemoglobin level evaluation following elective cesarean section: Is it worthwhile?
Authors: Assaf Wisam , Gruber Maya , Shalabna Eiman , Nahshon Chen , Kedar Reuven , Lavie Ofer , Segev Yakir , Sagi‐Dain Lena
Published: August 2024

Objective

The aim of this study was to assess the usefulness of routine hemoglobin testing following elective and urgent cesarean section (CS) in patients without primary postpartum hemorrhage (PPH).

Methods

This retrospective cohort study included women who underwent vaginal delivery (VD), elective CS, and urgent CS at Carmel Medical Center from 2015 to 2020. Data were extracted from the obstetric database, excluding deliveries with PPH. Demographic and obstetric variables were recorded. Primary outcomes were the need for packed red blood cell transfusion.

Results

A total of 19 446 women were included, with five (0.3%) requiring a blood transfusion in the elective CS group, 27 (0.17%) in the VD group, and eight (0.4%) in the urgent CS group. Urgent CS was associated with a higher risk of blood transfusion, but there was no significant difference between elective CS and VD. Elective CS showed the lowest rates of post‐delivery hemoglobin below 7 g/dL 1 (0.1%) compared to VD 16 (0.6%) and urgent CS 13 (0.7%).

Conclusion

Routine postoperative hemoglobin testing following elective CS in asymptomatic patients without PPH appears unnecessary. This study supports reconsidering routine hemoglobin testing following elective CS, aligning with the goal of optimizing resource utilization while maintaining patient quality.
A glimpse into the future: Integrating artificial intelligence for precision HER2‐positive breast cancer management
Authors: Deng Xinpei , Yan Yixuan , Zhan Zekai , Xie Jindong , Tang Hailin , Zou Yutian , Tu Jian , Liu Peng
Published: August 2024

Breast cancer (BC), specifically HER2‐positives subtype, has a poor prognosis. Nevertheless, the development of anti‐HER2 therapy yielded satisfactory outcomes. Therefore, evaluating patient HER2 status and ascertaining responsiveness to anti‐HER2 therapy is crucial. The advent of deep learning has propelled the artificial intelligence (AI) revolution, leading to an increased applicability of AI in predictive models. In the field of medicine, AI is an emerging modality that is gaining momentum for facilitating cancer diagnosis and treatment, particularly in the effective management of breast cancer. This study aims to provide a comprehensive review of current diagnostic and predictive models that utilize data obtained from histopathological slides, radiomics, and HER2 binding sites. Advancements and practical applications of these models were also evaluated. Additionally, we examined existing obstacles that AI encounters for anti‐HER2 therapy. We also proposed future directions for integrating AI in assessing and managing anti‐HER2 therapy. The findings of this study offer valuable insights into the evaluation of AI‐based anti‐HER2 therapy, emphasizing key concepts and obstacles that, if addressed, could facilitate the integration of AI‐assisted anti‐HER2 therapy. The integration of AI has the potential to enhance the precision and customization of screening and treatment protocols for HER2+ breast cancer.
Melatonin intervention to prevent nanomaterial exposure‐induced damages: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of in vitro and in vivo studies
Authors: Wang Xuejiao , Zhou Yang , Xie Dongli , Yin Fei , Liang Yunxia , Luo Xiaogang
Published: August 2024

Given its antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, and antiapoptotic properties, melatonin (MEL), a health‐caring food to improve sleep disorders, is hypothesized to protect against nanomaterial exposure‐induced toxicity. However, the conclusion derived from different studies seemed inconsistent. A meta‐analysis of all available preclinical studies was performed to examine the effects of MEL on nanomaterial‐induced damages. Eighteen relevant studies were retrieved through searching five electronic databases up to December 2023. The meta‐analysis showed that relative to control, MEL treatment significantly increased cell viability (standardized mean difference [SMD = 1.27]) and alleviated liver function (lowered AST [SMD = −3.89] and ALT [SMD = −5.89]), bone formation (enhanced BV/TV [SMD = 4.13] and lessened eroded bone surface [SMD = −5.40]), and brain nerve (inhibition of AChE activity [SMD = −3.60]) damages in animals. The protective mechanisms of MEL against damages caused by nanomaterial exposure were associated with its antiapoptotic (decreased Bax/Bcl‐2 ratio [SMD = −4.50] and caspase‐3 levels [dose <100 μM: SMD = −3.66]), antioxidant (decreased MDA [in vitro: SMD = −2.84; in vivo: SMD = −4.27]), and anti‐inflammatory (downregulated TNF‐α [in vitro: SMD = −5.41; in vivo: SMD = −3.21] and IL‐6 [in vitro: SMD = −5.90; in vivo: SMD = −2.81]) capabilities. In conclusion, our study suggests that MEL should be supplemented to prevent damages in populations exposed to nanomaterials.
Credit ratings and management earnings forecasts: Evidence from the Dodd–Frank act
Authors: Li Pei , Tang Leo
Published: August 2024

In compliance with legislation from the Dodd–Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (Dodd–Frank), the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) passed a final rule in June 2012 which requires banks and savings associations to actively monitor and assess their debt investments rather than passively relying on credit ratings. The OCC specifically directs these institutions to examine default risk by focusing on “operating and financial performance.” We utilize this regulatory change to examine how greater demand for information by major institutions impacts the corporate disclosures of issuers. We focus on forward looking management earnings forecasts (MEFs) and find greater bond market reaction to MEFs after the OCC rule. These results suggest that greater demand for information by bondholders has a significant impact on the quality of issuer's forward looking corporate disclosures.
l‐Carnitine relieves cachexia‐related skeletal muscle fibrosis by inducing deltex E3 ubiquitin ligase 3L to negatively regulate the Runx2/COL1A1 axis
Authors: Lu Zongliang , Wang Li , Huo Zhenyu , Li Na , Tong Ning , Chong Feifei , Liu Jie , Zhang Yaowen , Xu Hongxia
Published: August 2024

Background

Cancer cachexia‐induced skeletal muscle fibrosis (SMF) impairs muscle regeneration, alters the muscle structure and function, reduces the efficacy of anticancer drugs, diminishes the patient's quality of life and shortens overall survival. RUNX family transcription factor 2 (Runx2), a transcription factor, and collagen type I alpha 1 chain (COL1A1), the principal constituent of SMF, have been linked previously, with Runx2 shown to directly modulate COL1A1 mRNA levels. l‐Carnitine, a marker of cancer cachexia, can alleviate fibrosis in liver and kidney models; however, its role in cancer cachexia‐associated fibrosis and the involvement of Runx2 in the process remain unexplored.

Methods

Female C57 mice (48 weeks old) were inoculated subcutaneously with MC38 cells to establish a cancer cachexia model. A 5 mg/kg dose of l‐carnitine or an equivalent volume of water was administered for 14 days via oral gavage, followed by assessments of muscle function (grip strength) and fibrosis. To elucidate the interplay between the deltex E3 ubiquitin ligase 3L(DTX3L)/Runx2/COL1A1 axis and fibrosis in transforming growth factor beta 1‐stimulated NIH/3T3 cells, a suite of molecular techniques, including quantitative real‐time PCR, western blot analysis, co‐immunoprecipitation, molecular docking, immunofluorescence and Duolink assays, were used. The relevance of the DTX3L/Runx2/COL1A1 axis in the gastrocnemius was also explored in the in vivo model.

Results

l‐Carnitine supplementation reduced cancer cachexia‐induced declines in grip strength (>88.2%, P < 0.05) and the collagen fibre area within the gastrocnemius (>57.9%, P < 0.05). At the 5 mg/kg dose, l‐carnitine also suppressed COL1A1 and alpha‐smooth muscle actin (α‐SMA) protein expression, which are markers of SMF and myofibroblasts. Analyses of the TRRUST database indicated that Runx2 regulates both COL1A1 and COL1A2. In vitro, l‐carnitine diminished Runx2 protein levels and promoted its ubiquitination. Overexpression of Runx2 abolished the effects of l‐carnitine on COL1A1 and α‐SMA. Co‐immunoprecipitation, molecular docking, immunofluorescence and Duolink assays confirmed an interaction between DTX3L and Runx2, with l‐carnitine enhancing this interaction to promote Runx2 ubiquitination. l‐Carnitine supplementation restored DTX3L levels to those observed under non‐cachectic conditions, both in vitro and in vivo. Knockdown of DTX3L abolished the effects of l‐carnitine on Runx2, COL1A1 and α‐SMA in vitro. The expression of DTX3L was negatively correlated with the levels of Runx2 and COL1A1 in untreated NIH/3T3 cells.

Conclusions

This study revealed a previously unrecognized link between Runx2 and DTX3L in SMF and demonstrated that l‐carnitine exerted a significant therapeutic impact on cancer cachexia‐associated SMF, potentially through the upregulation of DTX3L.
Ultrasound‐assisted matrix solid‐phase extraction based on deep eutectic solvents and zinc oxide: Extraction and determination of six active ingredients in Ligustri Lucidi Fructus
Authors: Qian Chengjialu , Wang Shizhao , Chen Hongyan , Li Jiankuan
Published: August 2024

In this study, we propose a novel strategy utilizing deep eutectic solvents (DESs) as both the extraction solvent and dispersing liquid, with nanometer zinc oxide (ZnO) serving as the adsorbent. This method incorporates ultrasound‐assisted matrix solid phase dispersion (UA‐MSPD) for the extraction of six active components (salidroside, echinacoside, acteoside, specnuezhenide, nuezhenoside G13, and oleanolic acid) from Ligustri Lucidi Fructus samples. The extracts were then analyzed using high‐performance liquid chromatography equipped with a diode array detector. The effects of various parameters such as dispersant dosage, DESs volume, grinding time, ultrasonication duration, and eluent volume on extraction recovery were investigated and optimized using a central composite design under response surface methodology. The optimized conditions yielded detection limits ranging from 0.003 to 0.01 mg/g and relative standard deviations of 8.7% or lower. Extraction recoveries varied between 93% and 98%. The method demonstrated excellent linearity for the analytes (R2 ≥ 0.9997). The simple, green, and efficient DESs/ZnO‐UA‐MSPD technique proved to be rapid, accurate, and reliable for extracting and analyzing the six active ingredients in Ligustri Lucidi Fructus samples.
Laryngeal Vibrotactile Stimulation Is Feasible, Acceptable To People With Unexplained Chronic Cough
Authors: Misono Stephanie , Shen Erin Y. , Sombrio Anna G. , Lunos Scott , Xu Jiapeng , Hoffmeister Jesse , Stockness Ali , Butcher Lisa , Weinstein Daniel , Gaeckle Nathaniel T. , Gray Raluca , Konczak Jürgen
Published: August 2024

Objectives

Unexplained chronic cough (UCC) is common and has significant impacts on quality of life. Ongoing cough can sensitize the larynx, increasing the urge to cough and perpetuating the cycle of chronic cough. Vibrotactile stimulation (VTS) of the larynx is a noninvasive stimulation technique that can modulate laryngeal somatosensory and motor activity. Study objectives were to assess feasibility and acceptability of VTS use by people with UCC. Secondarily, changes in cough‐related quality of life measures were assessed.

Methods

Adults with UCC recorded cough measures at baseline and after completing 2 weeks of daily VTS. Feasibility and acceptability were assessed through participant‐reported device use and structured feedback. Cough‐related quality of life measures were the Leicester Cough Questionnaire (LCQ) and the Newcastle Laryngeal Hypersensitivity Questionnaire (NLHQ).

Results

Nineteen adults participated, with mean age 67 years and cough duration 130 months. Notably, 93% of planned VTS sessions were logged, 94% of participants found the device comfortable to wear, 89% found it easy to operate and 79% would recommend it to others. Pre‐post LCQ change achieved a minimal important difference (MID) (mean 1.3 [SD 2.4, p = 0.015]). NLHQ scores improved, but did not reach an MID.

Conclusions

Laryngeal VTS use was feasible and acceptable for use by patients with UCC and was associated with a meaningful improvement in cough‐related quality of life. Future studies will include VTS dose refinement and the inclusion of a comparison arm to further assess the potential for laryngeal VTS as a novel treatment modality for UCC.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 134:5010–5014, 2024
Integrating visual and molecular approaches for fish eggs analysis: A study on formaldehyde fixation and storage procedures
Authors: Mozfar Bahar , Thorsen Anders , Mateos‐Rivera Alejandro , Dahle Geir , Skern‐Mauritzen Rasmus , Wehde Henning , Krafft Bjørn A.
Published: August 2024

Accurate taxonomic classification and developmental stage determination of fish eggs are crucial for ecological monitoring, conservation efforts, and stock assessments. Traditional methods for fish and fisheries rely on visual examination of morphological traits, but they face challenges due to species overlap especially for early stages. Molecular tools, such as DNA barcoding, offer higher resolution in taxonomic identification but may not provide developmental stage information. This study explores the effectiveness of different formaldehyde fixation concentrations and storage procedures on fish eggs collected from Lofoten, Norway, for both visual and molecular analysis. Visual analysis successfully identified developmental stage for all fixation solutions. Molecular barcoding using the 16S rRNA gene identified up to 100% of eggs at the species level, with decreasing success rates over time when stored in formaldehyde fixation. The highest DNA barcoding success rates were accomplished using 4% formaldehyde fixation for 12‐ or 24‐h following transfer to ethanol. Using 0.5% and 1% formaldehyde fixation up to 8 weeks also resulted in high DNA success rates, but results deteriorated with increasing storage time. This study provides valuable insights for integrating visual and molecular methods for fish egg analysis, with practical implications for sample preservation during marine surveys.
Industrial agglomeration, environmental regulation, and regional environmental performance: Direct and interactive effects
Authors: Qin Chang , Lu Di , Li Yangfan
Published: August 2024

The contradiction between the economy and the environment becomes acute as the increasing ecological constraints. It is thus necessary to improve environmental performance and realize the economic‐ecological double dividend. To achieve that, co‐operative efforts are needed on both production and governance sides, particularly industrial agglomeration and environmental regulation. Based on provincial sections in China spanning 2006 to 2020, we explore the effects of industrial agglomeration and environmental regulation on environmental performance, exploiting a two‐way fixed effects model. We also illustrate the potential channels and interactive effects between industrial agglomeration and environmental regulation. The results indicate an inverted U‐shaped nexus between industrial agglomeration and environmental performance, while environmental regulation favors environmental performance. Green innovation, factor allocation, deepening of division of labor, and industrial structure upgrading are plausible channels. Besides, we discover the interaction between industrial agglomeration and environmental regulation, where environmental regulation reduces the inflection point of industrial agglomeration, and industrial agglomeration improves the effectiveness of environmental regulation. Our work sheds light on the synergy between production and governance sides, which offers insights into green transition for China and other newly industrialized economies.
Does financial flexibility drive firm's risk‐taking in emerging markets? The moderating role of investment efficiency
Authors: Bagh Tanveer , Khan Muhammad Asif , Naseer Mirza Muhammad , Iftikhar Kainat
Published: August 2024

Using a sample of 2301 listed firms from emerging markets for 2014–2023, we examine the effect of financial flexibility (FF) on firm risk‐taking (FRT) and how this relationship is moderated by investment efficiency (INVEFF). GMM and bias‐corrected method of moments models indicate a positive impact of FF on FRT. Notably, INVEFF emerges as a significant moderator, influencing the FF–FRT relationship. High INVEFF strategically amplifies the effect of FF on FRT. Robustness analysis ensures the stability of study findings. This study contributes valuable insights to the nuanced understanding of the FF–FRT relationship in emerging markets.
‘On the mountain, the world is still all right’: Nature connections in context and the Covid journey of young adults in Austria
Authors: Bork‐Hüffer Tabea , Wächter Leonie , Hitchings Russell
Published: August 2024

Research and policy during the Covid‐19 pandemic often dovetailed with an established interest in how nearby urban nature spaces can encourage human well‐being. Yet, to define the focus upfront in this way is to overlook the many ways in which different groups may draw on experiences in diverse natural environments to get through challenging times.

This paper draws on a qualitative study with 98 university students in Innsbruck, Austria. As part of a co‐production approach, and using a range of exploratory and inductive methods, we examined how they coped with lockdown restrictions and other challenges to everyday life during the pandemic between March and November 2020.

The study's longitudinal design reveals how their nature relations evolved over the lifetime of the pandemic. Participants showed a strong identification with the Alpine nature surrounding Innsbruck and deeply mourned opportunities to go there during quarantine at the start. With the relaxation of restrictions, they briefly celebrated the return of access to these spaces before nature experiences were soon blended back into their everyday lives as before.

The findings present an account of nature spaces being valued during the pandemic precisely because they were away from urban spaces nearby that had come to feel strange as a result of the lockdown restrictions. This leads us to reflect on the importance of how exactly people engage with local nature and how nature connections change in response to the evolving pressures and preoccupations that shape everyday life, both for young people and others. We emphasise the value of contextual sensitivity in future research and policy hoping to foster nature benefits, both during crisis situations such as these and more generally.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Fiber tension prediction and control methods in automated fiber placement
Authors: Cheng Liang , Zheng Chenggan , Li Yan , Chen Chao , Zhang Shuai , Wu Jianbo , Dong Huiyue , Ke Yinglin
Published: August 2024

In automated fiber placement (AFP), the fiber tension is an important process parameter. Sharp fluctuations in fiber tension are unacceptable in AFP process. The focuses of this article are on fiber tension modeling and control methods for AFP. Firstly, the mechanical model of fiber transport based on frictional loss is established, and the control objective, which should really be focused on in the tension system, is pointed out. Then, identification experiments are carried out to obtain the unknown parameters in the mechanical model. In addition, a dynamic model of fiber tension based on a passive dancer roller is established and linearized by curve fitting. Finally, a variable‐parameter Proportion‐Integration‐Differentiation (PID) controller is established to achieve stable control of the fiber tension. The experimental results show that the proposed control method can accurately stabilize the actual tension at the target value and has a lower control error in the face of strong velocity fluctuations than the traditional tension control system.

Highlights

The fiber tension at the end of the tow transfer path cannot be measured directly by the sensor in automated fiber placement.

The tension model predicts the fiber tension at various points in the tow path.

The control method using the tension prediction model is much more accurate than the traditional method.
4D printing of heat‐stimulated shape memory polymer composite for high‐temperature smart structures/actuators applications
Authors: Kumar Sumodh , Ojha Nidhi , Ramesh M. R. , Doddamani Mrityunjay
Published: August 2024

High temperature shape memory polymers (HT‐SMPs) have great utilization in self‐deployable hinges/morphing structures for space/aerospace, and high‐temperature sensors/actuators for electronics. However, HT‐SMPs have many drawbacks, such as low stiffness, strength, thermal stability, and dynamic mechanical properties. This work aims at improving these properties of highly utilized space grade HT‐SMP, PEKK (polyether ketone ketone), by reinforcing it with low‐cost carbon fibers (CFs), and developing its composite via additive manufacturing. The additively manufactured CF/PEKK composites are annealed at 200 °C (CF/PEKK‐A200) and 250 °C (CF/PEKK‐A250), and for the first time, investigated for shape memory effect (SME). The shape fixity and the shape recovery of the CF/PEKK‐UNA (un‐annealed), CF/PEKK‐A200, and CF/PEKK‐A250 are noted to be 95.97%, 88.95%, and 86.40%, and 88.70%, 92.70%, and 95.19%, respectively with a significant weight saving potential of ⁓21%. Dispersion of CFs in PEKK and suitability of processing parameters (blending, extrusion, and 3D printing) are confirmed through scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Thermal degradation temperature () of the printed CF/PEKK composite (⁓568 °C) is found to be ⁓3.5% higher than PEKK (⁓549 °C). CF/PEKK‐A250 exhibited the highest storage modulus (4438.23 MPa), ~158% higher than PEKK (1722.3 MPa), while CF/PEKK‐A200 demonstrated the highest tensile modulus (10.9 GPa), which is 138.5% higher than PEKK (4.57 GPa) and 312.88% higher than CF/PEKK‐UNA (2.64 GPa). Moreover, CF/PEKK‐A200 exhibited 237.46%, 138.51%, 127.08%, 61.48%, 32.93%, and 50.35% higher tensile modulus than PEEK, PEKK, PEK, CF/PEK, CF/PEEK, and CF/PEKK composites, respectively, showing great potential to replace them.

Highlights

Printed CF/PEKK composites are investigated for shape memory behavior.

The printed composites exhibited outstanding shape memory properties.

Printed‐A200 exhibited 138.51% enhanced tensile modulus than pure PEKK.

Also, the printed‐A200 showed 313% enhanced modulus than printed‐UNA.

(568 °C) of the printed composites is found ⁓4% greater than pure PEKK.
Uncrewed Aerial Vehicle–Based Assessments of Peatland Permafrost Vulnerability Along the Labrador Sea Coastline, Northern Canada
Authors: Beer Jordan , Wang Yifeng , Way Robert , Forget Anika , Colyn Victoria
Published: August 2024

Palsas and peat plateaus in subarctic peatlands are some of the southernmost lowland permafrost landforms in the Northern Hemisphere. Peatland permafrost along the Labrador Sea coastline in northeastern Canada is substantially understudied despite the importance of these landforms for wildlife, carbon stores, and Indigenous land users. In this study, we derived geomorphological and resiliency indices for peatland permafrost landforms at 20 wetland complexes, spanning a latitudinal gradient from Blanc‐Sablon, QC (51.4° N), to Nain, NL (56.5° N). Orthomosaics and three‐dimensional point clouds were created for each site using UAV‐based surveys and structure‐from‐motion photogrammetry. Analyses revealed that landforms in the region are characterized by short heights (maximum height: 3.65 m, average height: 0.49 m) with lichen and dwarf shrub cover, making them more similar to features in northern Europe than western Canada. Palsas and peat plateaus ranged in size from 49 to 14,233 m2, with a median feature size of 259 m2. Peatland permafrost in the region exhibits high levels of fragmentation, with most study sites (90%) exhibiting low or very low thaw resiliency. The results from this study indicate a high vulnerability to thaw and degradational processes, with potential negative consequences for species of cultural value to Labrador Inuit, Kallunângajuit, and Innu.
Novel pesticides design: co‐encapsulation of citral and cyproconazole for the control of Botrytis cinerea using biocompatible nano‐carriers
Authors: Bence Renata , Barolo Silvia M. , Wunderlin Daniel A. , Martín Sandra E. , Cano Natividad C. Herrera
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND

Growing concerns about sustainability have driven the search for eco‐friendly pest management solutions. Combining natural and synthetic compounds within controlled release systems is a promising strategy. This study investigated the co‐encapsulation of the natural compound citral (Cit) and the synthetic antifungal cyproconazole (CPZ) using two water‐based nanocarriers: solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) and chitosan nanoparticles (CSNPs).

RESULTS

Both CSNPs and SLNs loaded with Cit + CPZ displayed superior antifungal activity against Botrytis cinerea compared to free compounds. Notably, CSNPs with a 2:1 Cit:CPZ ratio exhibited the highest efficacy, achieving a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC100) of < 1.56 μg mL−1, lower than the 12.5 μg mL−1 of non‐encapsulated compounds. This formulation significantly reduced the required synthetic CPZ while maintaining efficacy, highlighting its potential for environmentally friendly pest control.

CONCLUSION

The successful co‐encapsulation of Cit + CPZ within CSNPs, particularly at a 2:1 ratio, demonstrates a promising approach for developing effective and sustainable antifungal formulations against B. cinerea. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Computational Prediction of Structural, Optoelectronic, Thermodynamic, and Thermoelectric Response of the Cubic Perovskite RbTmCl3 via DFT‐mBJ + SOC Studies
Authors: Khera Ejaz Ahmad , Nazir Abrar , Ahmed Zubair , Manzoor Mumtaz , Ullah Hamid , Ansar Sabah , Kumar Yedluri Anil , Sharma Ramesh
Published: August 2024

Perovskite halides, owing to their environmental stability, non‐toxicity, and remarkable efficiency, are emerging as potential candidates for photovoltaic, solar cell, and thermodynamic applications. The electronic, optical, thermoelectric, and thermodynamic properties of cubic perovskite RbTmCl3 are studied using density functional theory (DFT). The electronic, optical, and thermoelectric properties are calculated both with and without spin‐orbit coupling (SOC) using the Tran and Blaha functional in the structure of the modified Becke Johnson (mBJ) exchange potential, while structural and mechanical properties are assessed using the exchange‐correlation functional calculated using the Perdew Burke Ernzerhof Generalized Gradient Approximation (PBE‐GGA). The negative formation energy (−592.39 KJ mol−1) and tolerance factor (1.17) for structural stability and current their existences in the cubic phase are found. Evaluation of the obtained data with and without SOC shows that the SOC effect causes the Tm‐d states to be shifted toward the level of Fermi, thereby decreasing the energy band gaps from 1.42 to 1.32 eV. Nevertheless, only the shift of the third variable peak to lower energies indicates the impact of SOC on optical properties. The effectiveness of RbTmCl3 in optical devices operating in the visible and ultraviolet regions is demonstrated by the exceptional absorption of light in these ranges. Using TB‐mBJ + SOC functional, the electronic band structure research reveals a direct semiconducting band gap of 1.32 eV in comparison to earlier calculations like LDA, PBE‐GGA, and TB‐mBJ. The absorption spectrum, reflectivity, extinction coefficient, refractive index, and dielectric function are displayed in addition to the electrical properties. Additionally, the quasi‐harmonic Debye model, which accounts for lattice vibrations, was used to study the corresponding volume, heat capacity, expansion of the heat coefficient, and Debye temperature of the RbTmCl3 crystal. We have calculated the thermoelectric parameters such as the Seebeck coefficient, thermal conductivity, electrical conductivity, and power factor as a function of temperature (100–900 K).
Quantum‐Neural Network Model for Platform Independent Ddos Attack Classification in Cyber Security
Authors: Küçükkara Muhammed Yusuf , Atban Furkan , Bayılmış Cüneyt
Published: August 2024

Quantum Machine Learning (QML) leverages the transformative power of quantum computing to explore a broad range of applications, including optimization, data analysis, and complex problem‐solving. Central to this study is the using of an innovative intrusion detection system leveraging QML models, with a preference for Quantum Neural Network (QNN) architectures for classification tasks. The inherent advantages of QNNs, notably their parallel processing capabilities facilitated by quantum computers and the exploitation of quantum superposition and parallelism, are elucidated. These attributes empower QNNs to execute certain classification tasks expediently and with heightened efficiency. Empirical validation is conducted through the deployment and testing of a QNN‐based intrusion detection system, employing a subset of the CIC‐DDoS 2019 dataset. Notably, despite employing a reduced feature set, the QNN‐based system exhibits remarkable classification accuracy, achieving a commendable rate of 92.63%. Moreover, the study advocates for the utilization of quantum computing libraries such as Qiskit, facilitating QNN training on local machines or quantum simulators. The findings underscore the efficacy of a QNN‐based intrusion detection system in attaining superior classification accuracy when confronted with large‐scale training datasets. However, it is imperative to acknowledge the constraints imposed by the limited number of qubits available on local machines and simulators.
A novel adaptive event‐triggered security consensus control mechanism for leader‐following multi‐agent systems under hybrid random cyber attacks
Authors: Xiong Lianglin , Chen Kangyue , Cao Jinde , Zhang Yi
Published: August 2024

Aiming at the security consensus control problem of leader‐following multi‐agent systems (MASs) under hybrid random cyber attack, this article proposes a novel sampled information related adaptive event‐triggered control mechanism (SIRAETCM). While ensuring the safety performance of the MASs, the mechanism adaptively and dynamically adjusts the trigger threshold of every agent to achieve discontinuous communication by using only the current and latest sampled signals. According to the MASs communication mode and Bernoulli attack model, a security consensus control protocol is constructed, and a bilateral sampled‐interval Lyapunov functional (BSILF) method is introduced to obtain more sampling interval information and establish sufficient conditions for the leader‐following state error system to stabilize asymptotically under hybrid random cyber attacks. Meanwhile, under a large sampling interval, the controller gain and adaptive event‐triggered parameters are designed and obtained. The simulation of the tunnel diode circuit system shows that the SIRAETCM can reduce the number of communications between agents to improve bandwidth utilization, and the adopted safety cooperative control protocol can improve the safety and effectiveness of the MASs.