bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Demarcating the Impact of Electrolytes on High‐Nickel Cathodes and Lithium‐Metal Anode
Authors: Vanaphuti Panawan , Cui Zehao , Manthiram Arumugam
Published: November 2023

The ever‐growing demand for low‐cost, high‐energy‐density lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) makes high‐nickel layered oxide cathodes, especially LiNiO2 (LNO), one of the most appealing candidates. However, poor structural and surface instability that leads to a short cycle life remains a formidable challenge. Herein, a systematic investigation of LNO performance in two different electrolytes (a conventional carbonate‐based LP57 electrolyte and an ether‐based localized high‐concentration electrolyte (LHCE)) with different charge cut‐off voltages is presented. These findings show that the cathode‐electrolyte reactivity is the main factor dictating the performance degradation of LNO at high voltages rather than bulk integrity. While LHCE can provide good stability beyond 4.2 V with a robust, uniform solid–electrolyte interphase (SEI) layer on the Li‐metal anode, there is no significant difference in cyclability at 4.15 V (96% capacity retention after 200 cycles) for both LP57 and LHCE. From LNO symmetric cells, carbonate‐based electrolyte is found to be good for LNO stability while ether‐based electrolyte is beneficial toward Li‐metal anode. Thus, a suitable electrolyte or a low cut‐off voltage is necessary to maintain a decent cycle life. Altogether, this work highlights the impact of electrolyte and cut‐off voltage on LNO and Li‐metal, which can help guide the development of cells based on LNO.
Multi‐Color Pure Organic Room Temperature Phosphorescent Materials with Long Lifetime and High Efficiency
Authors: Guan Zhihao , Tang Zhaorun , Deng Junjie , Zheng Yuewei , Li Houbin , Liu Xinghai
Published: November 2023

Organic room temperature phosphorescent (ORTP) materials have garnered significant interest in the fields of anti‐counterfeiting, optical display, and bio‐imaging owing to their distinctive optical properties. However, a major drawback of most existing ORTP materials is their short phosphorescence lifetime and low quantum yields (QYs), which greatly limit their applicability across multiple fields. In this paper, a covalently assisted host‐guest doping strategy that involves embedding three aminobenzoic acids with different carboxylate substitution positions into a cyanuric acid (CA) matrix through covalent bonding using microwave heating is proposed. All three prepared ORTP materials exhibit long phosphorescence lifetime exceeding 600 ms and high phosphorescence quantum yields (PhQYs) surpassing 20%. Among them, the composite of 2‐aminoterephthalic acid (2‐A) anuric acid stands out with its unique blue phosphorescence, boasting an exceptional absolute photoluminescence quantum yield (PLQY) of 98.95% and remarkable phosphorescence quantum yield (PhQY) of 76.42%, along with a long lifetime of 800 ms. Importantly, these high‐performance ORTP materials have been successfully utilized in anti‐counterfeiting and display applications.
Controllable Adaptive Molybdate‐Oligosaccharide Nanoparticles Regulate M2 Macrophage Mitochondrial Function and Promote Angiogenesis via PI3K/HIF‐1α/VEGF Pathway to Accelerate Diabetic Wound Healing
Authors: Huang Xiuhong , Zheng Liqin , Zhou Yueshan , Hu Shaonan , Ning Wancheng , Li Simin , Lin Ziling , Huang Shaohong
Published: November 2023

The complex wound environment of diabetic wounds leads to poor treatment efficacy, and the inflammatory disorders and vascular injury are the primary causes of death in such patients. Herein, a sprayable, controllable adaptive, pH‐responsive nanosystem of molybdate and oligosaccharide (CMO) is specially developed as an immunomodulatory and angiogenesis‐promotion material for diabetic wound healing. CMO exhibited pH‐responsive release of Mo2+ and oligosaccharide (COS), specifically in response to the alkalescent environment observed in diabetic wounds. CMO provide an anti‐inflammatory environment by promoting M2 polarization through significantly stimulating macrophage mitochondrial function. Specifically, CMO with a certain concentration reduce reactive oxygen species (ROS) and tumor necrosis factor α (TNF‐α) expression, and upregulated mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and interleukin 10 (IL‐10) expression in macrophages. Moreover, CMO facilitate angiogenesis via upregulating the PI3K/HIF‐1α/VEGF pathway—a critical process for the formation of new blood vessels that supply nutrients and oxygen to the healing tissue. Remarkably, CMO promote cell viability and migration of endothelial cells, and enhance the expression of angiogenic genes. In vitro and in vivo studies suggest this simple but powerful nanosystem targeting mitochondrial function has the potential to become an effective treatment for diabetic wound healing.
Functionality of 1‐Butyl‐2,3‐Dimethylimidazolium Bromide (BMI‐Br) as a Solid Plasticizer in PEO‐Based Polymer Electrolyte for Highly Reliable Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: Kim Eunhui , Jamal Hasan , Jeon Injun , Khan Firoz , Chun Sang‐Eun , Kim Jae Hyun
Published: November 2023

To address the challenges associated with solid polymer electrolytes, flame‐retardant organic ionic plastic crystals (OIPCs) have been utilized as a solid plasticizer in composite polymer electrolytes (CPEs). In this study, 1‐butyl‐2,3‐dimethylimidazolium bromide (BMI‐Br) is used as an OIPC material. BMI‐Br and LiTFSI are initially mixed in an acetonitrile (ACN) organic solvent for a certain time. Anion exchange takes place in this mixing, replacing the Br− in BMI‐Br with TFSI−. As a result, BMI‐TFSI and Li‐Br are formed. Here, BMI‐TFSI acts as an ionic liquid, while Li‐Br serves as a salt. The 10% BMI‐Br content (BMI‐Br‐10 CPE) exhibits significant ionic conductivity (σ = 2.34 × 10−3 S cm−1 at 30 °C), wide window (up to 4.57 V), and flame retardancy. Furthermore, the BMI‐Br‐10 CPE demonstrates galvanostatic lithium plating stripping cycling stability at 100 and 300 µA cm−2 for 800 and 500 h against Li‐metal, respectively, without a significant overpotential shooting. Furthermore, at 60 °C, the BMI‐Br‐10 CPE in [LiFePO4/BMI‐Br‐10/Li] batteries demonstrates an initial capacity of 146.9 mAh g−1, capacity retention of 99.7% and high coulombic efficiency (99.5%) after 300 cycles at 1C.
Consumers' intention to adopt plant‐based meat
Authors: Chen Nai‐Hua , Tsai Meng‐Hua
Published: November 2023

The consumption of plant‐based meat is increasing, reflecting consumers' concerns about health, animal welfare, the environment, and sustainability. However, plant‐based meat consumption remains low owing to the barriers to shifting consumers to this nonmeat diet. We evaluate consumers' intentions to consume plant‐based meat from the perspectives of exploratory behavior and the regulatory focus theory. We collect 642 valid responses and use structural equation modeling to explore the relationship between exploratory behavior, regulatory focus values, and plant‐based meat purchase intention. exploratory behaviors encompass risk‐taking, variety‐seeking, and curiosity, while regulatory‐focus values comprise promotion‐ and prevention‐focus values. The results show that exploratory behaviors affect plant‐based meat purchase intention. Promotion‐focus value has a greater impact on purchase intention than prevention‐focus value. Promotion‐focus value mediates the relationship between exploratory behaviors and purchase intention, whereas prevention‐focus value mediates the relationship between risk‐taking and purchase intention. Drawing on consumers' consumption values, we reveal distinct managerial implications, such as providing important information and adopting online selling to attract buyers [EconLit Citations: Q01, Q13, Q55, Q56].
Association of BDNF risk variant and dorsolateral cortical thickness with long‐term treatment response to valproate in type I bipolar disorder: An exploratory study
Authors: Rodríguez‐Ramírez Alejandra Monserrat , Cedillo‐Ríos Valente , Sanabrais‐Jiménez Marco Antonio , Becerra‐Palars Claudia , Hernández‐Muñoz Sandra , Ortega‐Ortíz Hiram , Camarena‐Medellin Beatriz
Published: November 2023

Valproate is among the most prescribed drugs for bipolar disorder; however, 87% of patients do not report full long‐term treatment response (LTTR) to this medication. One of valproate's suggested mechanisms of action involves the brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), expressed in the brain areas regulating emotions, such as the prefrontal cortex. Nonetheless, data about the role of BDNF in LTTR and its implications in the structure of the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (dlPFC) is scarce. We explore the association of BDNF variants and dorsolateral cortical thickness (CT) with LTTR to valproate in bipolar disorder type I (BDI). Twenty‐eight BDI patients were genotyped for BDNF polymorphisms rs1519480, rs6265, and rs7124442, and T1‐weighted 3D brain scans were acquired. LTTR to valproate was evaluated with Alda's scale. A logistic regression analysis was conducted to evaluate LTTR according to BDNF genotypes and CT. We evaluated CT differences by genotypes with analysis of covariance. LTTR was associated with BDNF rs1519480 and right dlPFC thickness. Insufficient responders with the CC genotype had thicker right dlPFC than TC and TT genotypes. Full responders reported thicker right dlPFC in TC and TT genotypes. In conclusion, different patterns of CT related to BDNF genotypes were identified, suggesting a potential biomarker of LTTR to valproate in our population.
Adapting Synthetic Models of Heme/Cu Sites to Energy‐Efficient Electrocatalytic Oxygen Reduction Reaction
Authors: Meng Jia , Qin Haonan , Lei Haitao , Li Xialiang , Fan Juan , Zhang Wei , Apfel Ulf‐Peter , Cao Rui
Published: November 2023

In nature, cytochrome c oxidases catalyze the 4e− oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) at the heme/Cu site, in which CuI is used to assist O2 activation. Because of the thermodynamic barrier to generate CuI, synthetic Fe‐porphyrin/Cu complexes usually show moderate electrocatalytic ORR activity. We herein report on a Co‐corrole/Co complex 1‐Co for energy‐efficient electrocatalytic ORR. By hanging a CoII ion over Co corrole, 1‐Co realizes electrocatalytic 4e− ORR with a half‐wave potential of 0.89 V versus RHE, which is outstanding among corrole‐based electrocatalysts. Notably, 1‐Co outperforms Co corrole hanged with CuII or ZnII. We revealed that the hanging CoII ion can provide an electron to improve O2 binding thermodynamically and dynamically, a function represented by the biological CuI ion of the heme/Cu site. This work is significant to present a remarkable ORR electrocatalyst and to show the vital role of a second‐sphere redox‐active metal ion in promoting O2 binding and activation.
Palladium‐Catalyzed Enantioselective C−H Olefination to Access Planar‐Chiral Cyclophanes by Dynamic Kinetic Resolution
Authors: Dong Ziyang , Li Jia , Yao Ting , Zhao Changgui
Published: November 2023

Planar‐chiral cyclophanes have received increasing attention for drug discovery and catalyst design. However, the catalytically asymmetric synthesis of planar‐chiral cyclophanes has been a longstanding challenge. We describe the first Pd(II)‐catalyzed enantioselective C−H olefination of prochiral cyclophanes. The low rotational barrier of less hindered benzene ring in the substrates allows the reaction to proceed through a dynamic kinetic resolution. This approach exhibits broad substrate scope, providing the planar‐chiral cyclophanes in high yields (up to 99 %) with excellent enantioselectivities (up to >99 % ee). The ansa chain length scope studies reveal that the chirality of the cyclophanes arises from the bond rotation constraint of the benzene ring around the macrocycle plane, rather than the C−N axis. The C−H activation approach is also applicable to the late‐stage modification of bioactive molecules and pharmaceuticals.
Enantioselective Synthesis of Bicyclo[3.2.1]octadienes via Palladium‐Catalyzed Intramolecular Alkene‐Alkyne Coupling Reaction
Authors: Li Qiuyu , Li Jiajia , Zhang Jie , Wu Shu , Zhang Yu , Lin Aijun , Yao Hequan
Published: November 2023

Bicyclo[3.2.1]octadiene compounds and derivatives exist in a number of natural products and bioactive compounds. Nevertheless, catalytic enantioselective protocols for the synthesis of these skeletons have not been disclosed. Herein we reported a palladium‐catalyzed asymmetric intramolecular alkene‐alkyne coupling of alkyne‐tethered cyclopentenes, affording a library of enantionenriched bicyclo[3.2.1]octadienes in excellent yields and enantioselectivities (mostly >99 % ee). Moreover, the products could undergo an unusual iodination‐induced 1,2‐acyl migration, forming iodinated bicyclo[3.2.1]octadienes with three vicinal stereocenters. The enone and isolated olefin motifs embedded in the products provide useful handles for downstream elaboration.
Stratification of the vertical spread‐skill relation by radiosonde drift in a convective‐scale ensemble
Authors: Flack David L. A.
Published: November 2023

Ensemble forecasting systems provide useful insight into the uncertainty in the prediction of the atmosphere. However, most analysis considers ensembles in latitude, longitude, and time. Here, the vertical aspects of the spread‐skill relation are considered in a convective‐scale ensemble via comparisons with radiosonde ascents. The specific focus is on the impact of stratifying the spread‐skill relation by radiosonde drift. The drift acts as a proxy for the mobility of the atmosphere. The overall spread‐skill relation shows the temperature has a better relation than the dewpoint. However, the total variance comparisons between model and observations indicates that the dewpoint is underspread throughout the atmosphere, whilst the temperature is overspread through the lower atmosphere and underspread aloft. This suggests that the model bias is influencing the spread‐skill relation. Stratifying these results by the radiosonde drift indicates that the spread‐skill relation, and model bias, for both temperature and dewpoint degrades with increased mobility. For the most mobile situations, the ensemble is underspread throughout the atmosphere. These results have implications for ensemble design in terms of the role and influence of the driving ensemble in regional systems as more mobile situations will have a stronger dependence on the lateral boundary conditions. Longer term it may also imply that different strategies are required depending on the mobility of the synoptic conditions. Therefore, it argues for more consideration of “on‐demand” ensemble forecasting systems to allow a fairer representation of the uncertainty in different situations.
Blockade of PD‐1 and CTLA‐4: A potent immunotherapeutic approach for hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Hou Kai , Xu Xiaohui , Ge Xin , Jiang Jiacen , Ouyang Fan
Published: November 2023

Immune checkpoints (ICPs) can promote tumor growth and prevent immunity‐induced cancer cell apoptosis. Fortunately, targeting ICPs, such as programmed cell death 1 (PD‐1) or cytotoxic T lymphocyte associated protein 4 (CTLA‐4), has achieved great success in the past few years and has gradually become an effective treatment for cancers, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, many patients do not respond to ICP therapy due to acquired resistance and recurrence. Therefore, clarifying the specific mechanisms of ICP in the development of HCC is very important for enhancing the efficacy of anti‐PD‐1 and anti‐CTLA‐4 therapy. In particular, antigen presentation and interferon‐γ (IFN‐γ) signaling were reported to be involved in the development of resistance. In this review, we have explained the role and regulatory mechanisms of ICP therapy in HCC pathology. Moreover, we have also elaborated on combinations of ICP inhibitors and other treatments to enhance the antitumor effect. Collectively, recent advances in the pharmacological targeting of ICPs provide insights for the development of a novel alternative treatment for HCC.
Association between gut microbial change and acute gastrointestinal toxicity in patients with prostate cancer receiving definitive radiation therapy
Authors: Jang Bum‐Sup , Chung Moon Gyu , Lee Dong Soo
Published: November 2023

Background

This prospective study investigated the association between gut microbial changes and acute gastrointestinal toxicities in prostate cancer patients receiving definitive radiation therapy (RT).

Methods

Seventy‐nine fecal samples were analyzed. Stool samples were collected at the following timepoints: pre‐RT (prRT), 2 weeks after the start of RT (RT‐2w), 5 weeks after the start of RT (RT‐5w), 1 month after completion of RT (poRT‐1 m), and 3 months after completion of RT (poRT‐3 m). We computed the microbial community polarization index (MCPI) as an indicator of RT‐induced dysbiosis.

Results

Patients experiencing toxicity had lower alpha diversity, especially at RT‐2w (p = 0.037) and RT‐5w (p = 0.003). Compared to patients without toxicity, the MCPI in those experiencing toxicities was significantly elevated (p = 0.019). In terms of predicted metabolic pathways, we found linearly decreasing pathways, including carbon fixation pathways in prokaryotes (p = 0.035) and the bacterial secretion system (p = 0.005), in patients who experienced toxicities.

Conclusions

We showed RT‐induced dysbiosis among patients who experienced toxicities. Reduced diversity and elevated RT‐related MCPI could be helpfully used for developing individualized RT approaches.
Three rare etiologies of urinary retention in pediatrics: A case series and review of the literature
Authors: Hekmati Pooya , Arshadi Hamid , Kamran Hooman , Kajbafzadeh Abdol‐Mohammad , Zahir Mazyar , Amirzargar Hossein , Ghahestani Seyyed Mohammad
Published: November 2023

Key Clinical Message

Etiology of urinary retention in pediatric age differs significantly from adults and the elderly. Therefore, a comprehensive diagnosis is crucial before specific treatment. Every effort must be made to minimize invasive procedures as far as possible in children.
Non‐osseous intradural tuberculoma of the thoracic spine with compressive myelopathy
Authors: Duvuru Shyam , Sanker Vivek , Naureen Syed , Prakash Gupta , Sanjana Rajurkar , Dave Tirth
Published: November 2023

Key Clinical Message

An uncommon form of CNS tuberculosis called non‐osseous IDEM tuberculoma frequently results from paradoxical drug interactions. It should be considered one of the differentials when patients receiving ATT experience acute neurological impairment.

Tuberculoma affecting the spinal cord is a rare condition in modern times. The occurrence of non‐osseous intradural tuberculosis, specifically in the spine, is even more exceptional. In fact, it is uncommon to encounter an intradural extramedullary tuberculous granuloma that lacks radiological indications of vertebral involvement, especially within the thoracic region. We present a case of a patient with a neurological deficit caused by a non‐osseous intradural tuberculoma in the thoracic region, without any associated bone involvement. The patient experienced a gradual deterioration of neurological function. An MRI of the thoracic spine revealed the presence of a tuberculoma located intradurally, extramedullary, and juxtamedullary of the T5 vertebra. The compression of the spinal cord resulted in paraparesis which was worsening to paraplegia. A D4–D6 laminectomy and microsurgical excision were performed under intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring (IONM), and the patient showed clinical recovery. Excellent clinical outcomes were achieved. However, it is crucial to consider the possibility of a non‐osseous intradural tuberculoma as a rare condition when encountering a SOL, particularly in patients with a history of tuberculosis and spinal cord compression. In cases where a progressing neurological deficit is present, a combination of surgical intervention and anti‐tuberculous treatment should be considered as the optimal approach.
Recurrent amebic liver abscesses despite metronidazole treatment: A rare case report
Authors: Noveir Sasan D. , Hoang Anh , Li Katherine , Lam John C. , Akkad Khushboo
Published: November 2023

Key Clinical Message

Amebic liver abscesses should be considered in adult males with a liver abscess and a history of travel to endemic areas. Effective treatment includes metronidazole, followed by paromomycin.
Cobalt‐Catalyzed Hydroalkylation of Alkenes and Alkynes: Advantages and Opportunities
Authors: Liu Bingxue , Liu Qiang
Published: November 2023

Sp3‐hybridized carbons‐rich molecules play a crucial role in drug discovery. Cobalt‐catalyzed hydroalkylation of alkenes and alkynes is an efficient method to synthesize these compounds. These reactions exhibit a wide range of applicability and high tolerance for functional groups, utilizing readily available alkenes and alkynes instead of hyperactive metallic reagents. Herein, we summarize the advancements of cobalt‐catalyzed hydroalkylation of alkenes and alkynes, according to different reaction mechanisms. We present a detailed discussion of the scope and limitations, plausible mechanisms and the opportunities for further development.
Modulating Cation and Water Transports for Enhanced CO Electrolysis via Ionomer Coating
Authors: Adnan Muflih A. , Nabil Shariful Kibria , Kannimuthu Karthick , Kibria Md Golam
Published: November 2023

Electrification of the chemical industry has been considered an enabler for energy transition on a massive scale. In this context, carbon monoxide electroreduction (COR) to produce multi‐carbon (C2+) products is considered one of the forefront emerging technologies. The key challenge in COR comes from the excessive cation crossover to the cathode via electromigration and water diffusion, which limits CO availability and impedes product selectivity. Commercial anion exchange membrane (AEM) suppresses the electromigration of cations, however, suffers from water diffusion which facilitates cation crossover. Here, we tackled these problems emerging from cation crossover and water diffusion by directly depositing an ultrathin Nafion ionomer on the cathode (sputtered Cu) surface. Our approach enables full‐cell energy efficiency of 21 % for converting CO into ethylene (C2H4) at 100 mA/cm2 with over 200 hours of stable operation. We also exhibited record high energy efficiency for ethanol (C2H5OH) production with CO‐to‐C2H5OH electrolysis efficiency of 17 %. This approach to directly depositing ultrathin ionomer on the cathode to enhance system performance may benefit other electrochemical systems to overcome challenges associated with scalability, stability, and efficiency to produce high‐value chemicals.
Driver behaviour prediction and enhanced ad hoc on‐demand distance vector routing protocol in VANET
Authors: Swamynathan Cloudin , Ravi Vidhya , Ranganayakulu Dhanalakshmi , Kandasamy Ramesh
Published: November 2023

Mobility pattern recognition is a complex task in vehicle ad hoc networks (VANET) because the driving state of each vehicle is different. An intelligent transportation system on VANET is used for traffic control and accident prevention. For this reason, human driver behaviour is first analysed to identify mobility patterns. A novel driver behaviour prediction model using a Siamese deep learning architecture is proposed to achieve the goal. Here, an image‐based behaviour prediction model is performed to achieve the highly accurate driving state of the driver. A warning message is forwarded to the neighbouring vehicles based on the driver's behaviour. Due to the dynamic properties of real‐time vehicle mobility, a faster data transmission model is achieved using the ad hoc on‐demand distance vector routing protocol. To achieve faster data transmission and nullified retransmission, here a weighted location‐based routing model is framed. The optimization problem in the location‐aided routing protocol is solved using the vector algorithm's weighted mean. As a result, the proposed method improved the throughput of ASHLOSR to 8.1% and AODV to 7.6%.
Can underwater endoscopic mucosal resection be an alternative to conventional endoscopic mucosal resection for superficial non‐ampullary duodenal epithelial tumors?
Authors: Tanaka Hidenori , Urabe Yuji , Takemoto Hiroki , Ishibashi Kazuki , Konishi Hirona , Matsubara Yuka , Takehara Yudai , Morimoto Shin , Tanino Fumiaki , Yamamoto Noriko , Teshima Hajime , Mizuno Junichi , Hirata Issei , Tamari Hirosato , Tsuboi Akiyoshi , Yamashita Ken , Kotachi Takahiro , Takigawa Hidehiko , Yuge Ryo , Oka Shiro
Published: November 2023

Objectives

Underwater endoscopic mucosal resection (UEMR) is a simpler procedure for superficial non‐ampullary duodenal epithelial tumors (SNADET) than conventional endoscopic mucosal resection (cEMR). This study aimed to evaluate whether cEMR can be substituted by UEMR for SNADET in terms of effectiveness, safety, and learning curve.

Methods

A total of 157 consecutive patients with 203 SNADETs ≤20 mm in diameter, including 107 lesions resected by cEMR and 96 lesions resected by UEMR, between January 2019 and May 2023, were retrospectively recruited. The treatment outcomes were compared between the cEMR and UEMR groups. The risk factors for incomplete resection by UEMR were analyzed using univariate and multivariate analyses. Lesions in the UEMR group were divided chronologically into five periods; thereafter, the en bloc resection rate and procedure time were compared.

Results

No significant differences existed between the cEMR and UEMR groups in the mean procedure time (3.9 min vs. 3.6 min, p = 0.1380) or en bloc resection rate (91% vs. 94%, p = 0.4138). No perforation was observed in either group. Tumor size was an independent risk factor for incomplete resection using UEMR (p < 0.01). The history of biopsy was not associated with incomplete resection using UEMR. The en bloc resection rate of UEMR was 100% (20/20) in the first period and ranged from 90% to 100% over all periods.

Conclusion

UEMR is safe and effective for SNADET ≤20 mm, regardless of a history of biopsy, and is easy to learn. Thus, UEMR can serve as an alternative to cEMR.
Management of fraudulent participants in online research: Practical recommendations from a randomized controlled feasibility trial
Authors: Davies Molly R. , Monssen Dina , Sharpe Helen , Allen Karina L. , Simms Beki , Goldsmith Kimberley A. , Byford Sarah , Lawrence Vanessa , Schmidt Ulrike
Published: November 2023

Objective

Fraudulent participation is an escalating concern for online clinical trials and research studies and can have a significant negative impact on findings. We aim to shed light on the risk and to provide practical recommendations for detecting and managing such instances.

Methods

The FREED‐Mobile (FREED‐M) study is an online, randomized controlled feasibility trial to assess a digital early intervention for young people (aged 16–25) in England or Wales with eating problems. The trial involved baseline (week 0), post‐intervention (week 4), and follow‐up (week 12) surveys, alongside weekly modules provided over 4 weeks on the study website. Study completers were compensated with £20 shopping vouchers. Despite the complexity of the trial design, two instances of fraudulent sign‐ups occurred in January and March 2023. To counter this, we developed a “fraudulent participants protocol” following internal investigations and discussions with collaborators.

Results

The implementation of prevention measures such as reCAPTCHA updates, IP address review, and changes in reimbursement effectively halted further fraudulent sign‐ups. Our protocol facilitated the systematic identification and withdrawal of suspected or clear fraudsters and was demonstrably robust at distinguishing between fraudsters and genuine responders.

Discussion

All remote, online trials or studies are at risk of fraudulent participation. Drawing from our experience and existing literature, we offer practical recommendations for researchers considering online recruitment and data collection. Vigilance and the integration of deterrents, and data quality checks into the study design from the outset are advised to safeguard research integrity.

Public Significance

Fraudulent participation in digital research can have asignificant impact on research findings, potentially leading to biased resultsand misinformed decisions. We developed an effective protocol for theprevention, identification, and management of fraudulent participants. Bysharing our insights and recommendations, we hope to raise awareness of thisissue and provide other researchers with the knowledge and strategies necessaryto safeguard research integrity moving forward.
Effect of a community‐based primary healthcare programme on adverse pregnancy outcomes in Northern Ghana
Authors: Kanmiki Edmund Wedam , Mamun Abdullah A. , Phillips James F. , O’Flaherty Martin J.
Published: November 2023

Background

Pregnancy complications and adverse birth outcomes are among the major contributors to poor maternal and child health. Mothers in remote communities are at higher risk of adverse birth outcomes due to constraints in access to healthcare services. In Ghana, a community‐based primary healthcare programme called the Ghana Essential Health Interventions Programme (GEHIP) was implemented in a rural region to help strengthen primary healthcare delivery and improve maternal and child healthcare services delivery. This study assessed the effect of this programme on adverse pregnancy outcomes.

Methods

Baseline and end‐line survey data from reproductive‐aged women from the GEHIP project were used in this analysis. Difference‐in‐differences and logistic regressions were used to examine the impact and equity effect of GEHIP on adverse pregnancy outcomes using household wealth index and maternal educational attainment as equity measures. The analysis involves the comparison of project baseline and end‐line outcomes in intervention and non‐intervention districts.

Results

The intervention had a significant effect in the reduction of adverse pregnancy outcomes (OR = 0.96, 95% CI:0.93–0.99). Although disadvantaged groups experience larger reductions in adverse pregnancy outcomes, controlling for covariates, there was no statistically significant equity effect of GEHIP on adverse pregnancy outcomes using either the household wealth index (OR = 0.99, 95% CI:0.85–1.16) or maternal educational attainment (OR = 0.68, 95% CI: 0.44–1.07) as equity measures.

Conclusion

GEHIP's community‐based healthcare programme reduced adverse pregnancy outcomes but no effect on relative equity was established. Factoring in approaches for targeting disadvantaged populations in the implementation of community‐based health programs is crucial to ensuring equity in health outcomes.
Systemic Inflammation Response Index as a diagnostic and prognostic predictor of intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy: A case–control study from a tertiary center
Authors: İpek Göksun , Tanaçan Atakan , Peker Ayça , Ağaoğlu Zahid , Kara Özgür , Şahin Dilek
Published: November 2023

Objective

To investigate the diagnostic and prognostic value of the Systemic Inflammation Response Index (SIRI) in intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP).

Methods

The present case–control study comprised 386 participants, including 192 women with ICP and 194 gestational age‐matched pregnant women. Increased fasting biliary acid (FBA) levels (≥10 μmol/L) were accepted as ICP criteria. SIRI values were calculated for the first trimester (SIRI 1), time of diagnosis (SIRI 2), and time of delivery (SIRI 3). The ICP and control groups were compared based on SIRI values, and on obstetrical and neonatal outcomes. The ICP subgroups based on FBA levels (severe ICP [FBA ≥40 μmol/L] and mild ICP [FBA <40 μmol/L]) were also compared for SIRI and pregnancy outcomes.

Results

Adverse outcomes were significantly higher in the ICP group (P < 0.001). SIRI 2 and SIRI 3 showed negative significant differences between the ICP and control groups, with P values of 0.001 and 0.009, respectively. A significant difference in ICP severity subgroups (P = 0.046) was observed for SIRI 3. In receiver operating characteristics curve analyses, optimal cut‐off values for the prediction of ICP were found to be 2.01 and 2.08 for SIRI 2 and SIRI 3, respectively. A cut‐off value 1.74 was determined to predict the disease severity for SIRI 3.

Conclusion

SIRI has clinical significance in accordance with the inflammatory etiology of ICP. SIRI might be used with other clinical and laboratory findings for ICP diagnosis and prediction.
Ultrasound‐guided and CT‐guided selective cervical nerve root injection for the treatment of cervical radicular pain: A retrospective clinical study
Authors: Bing Ran , Wenting Li , Rong Chen , Chanchan Song , Xin Deng , Jun Wei
Published: November 2023

Objective

To compare the clinical effects and safety of ultrasound (US)‐guided selective cervical nerve root injection (SCNI) and computed tomography (CT)‐guided SCNI for patients with cervical radicular pain (CRP).

Methods

Forty‐two CT‐guided SCNI procedures (26 eligible patients) and forty‐two US‐guided SCNI procedures (25 eligible patients) performed to treat CRP were identified from the medical record system between October 2017 and July 2021 and enrolled in the study. The numeric rating scale was used to assess pre‐ and postprocedural pain levels, and the neck disability index was used to assess the level of function. All immediate and delayed clinical complications were also recorded. The cost of each procedure and the radiation dose of the CT procedure were documented. The follow‐up data were obtained by telephone calls or outpatient visits.

Results

Five patients in the CT group and one patient in the US group were lost to follow‐up at 1 year. No procedure‐related complications were observed in either group. Significant pain relief and cervical function improvement were achieved after treatment in both the CT‐guided SCNI and US‐guided SCNI groups; however, there were no significant differences between the two groups. The average cost per CT‐guided SCNI procedure was 133.2 USD, which was higher than the cost per US‐guided SCNI procedure (42.2 USD). Meanwhile, the necessary radiation dose per patient in the CT group was 0.36 ± 0.08 mGy.

Conclusions

US‐guided SCNI and CT‐guided SCNI have similar efficacy in treating CRP, but US‐guided SCNI is radiation free and less costly than the CT‐guided procedure.
Dentists’ considerations concerning treating patients from the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community: A national survey
Authors: Korleski Michael J. , Stefanac Stephen J. , Inglehart Marita R.
Published: November 2023

Objectives

Research shows that adults who were Deaf or Hard of Hearing (HoH) had poorer oral health than adults who did not belong to this community. The objectives were to assess dentists’ education, knowledge, attitudes, and professional behavior related to treating patients from the Deaf or HoH community and the relationships between these constructs.

Methods

A total of 207 members of the American Dental Association and the Michigan Dental Association responded to a mailed or web‐based survey concerning their education, knowledge, attitudes, and professional behavior related to treating patients from the Deaf or HoH community.

Results

On average, the respondents disagreed that they were well educated in classroom‐based, clinical, or community‐based dental school settings (five‐point answer scale with 1 = disagree strongly; mean = 2.29/2.27/2.35) or by their professional organization (mean = 2.00) about treating Deaf or HoH patients. However, the more recently the respondents had graduated from dental school, the better they described their education about this topic (r = 0.29; p < 0.001). Additionally, 45.9% agreed/strongly agreed that they would like to attend a continuing education course about this topic; 68.9% agreed/agreed strongly that negative consequences for patients’ general health can occur; and 61.1% that patients cannot be well educated about oral hygiene if Deaf or HoH patients do not have appropriate interpretive support in dental offices. The better dentists were educated about this topic, the more knowledge they had (r = 0.50; p < 0.001). On average, the respondents agreed more strongly that they were comfortable treating adult patients who communicated orally than patients using American Sign Language (4.02 vs. 3.25; p < 0.001).

Conclusions

These findings show that efforts are needed to improve dental school and continuing education curricula about dental treatment for Deaf and HoH patients. The more recently the respondents had graduated, the more positively they described their education. Increased dental school and continuing education efforts are still urgently needed.
Shrub encroachment occurs near previously invaded areas in Patagonia (southern South America)
Authors: Romero‐Ovalle Paula Estelí , Campanella María Victoria , Pascual Miguel , García‐Asorey Martín , Pacheco Cristian , Barrionuevo Cristian , Bisigato Alejandro Jorge
Published: November 2023

During the last century shrub encroachment has occurred in many arid and semiarid areas of the world. Patagonia is a large xeric territory located in the southern tip of South America, which has been grazed by sheep for more than a century. In many areas overgrazing led to vegetation change (shrub encroachment), which in turn reduced sheep carrying capacity and caused ranch abandonment. However, these changes in physiognomy did not occur everywhere, and even some authors did not find evidence that shrub encroachment is currently occurring. Our objectives were to determine if encroachment really happened in NE Patagonia and, in the case of confirming shrub encroachment, to evaluate if the increase in shrub density was spatially homogeneous. We used object‐based image analysis to evaluate shrub density and cover in aerial photographs taken in 1970 and 2018. In both dates, shrub density showed a clear contrast between two kinds of areas showing higher and lower density than was expected by chance. Shrub density and cover more than doubled between 1970 and 2018. This increase was concentrated in those areas with moderate or high densities of shrubs in 1970. Our results confirm the occurrence of shrub encroachment in NE Patagonia and demonstrate that it is currently concentrated near previously invaded areas. These findings have implications when defining protocols for monitoring shrub encroachment since monitors should focus on both areas that already have shrubs and areas that lack them.
Soft Sub‐Structured Multi‐Material Biosensor Hydrogels with Enzymes Retained by Plant Viral Scaffolds
Authors: Grübel Jana , Wendlandt Tim , Urban Daniela , Jauch Corinna O. , Wege Christina , Tovar Günter E. M. , Southan Alexander
Published: November 2023

An all‐soft multi‐material combination consisting of a hydrogel based on poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) coated with spatially defined spots of gelatin methacryloyl (GM) containing selectively addressable viral nanorods is presented, and its basic application as a qualitative biosensor with reporter enzymes displayed on the tobacco mosaic virus (TMV) bioscaffolds within the GM is demonstrated. Biologically inert PEG supports are equipped with GM spots serving as biological matrix for enzymes clustered on TMV particles preventing diffusion out of the gel. For this multi‐material combination, i) the PEG‐based hydrogel surface is modified to achieve a clear boundary between coated and non‐coated regions by introducing either isothiouronium or thiol groups. ii) Cross‐linking of the GM spots is studied to achieve anchoring to the hydrogel surface. iii) The enzymes horseradish peroxidase or penicillinase (Pen) are conjugated to TMV and integrated into the GM matrix. In contrast to free enzymes, enzyme‐decorated TMVs persist in GM spots and show sustained enzyme activity as evidenced by specific color reaction after 7 days of washing, and for Pen after 22 months after dry storage. Therefore, the integration of enzyme‐coupled TMV into hydrogel matrices is a promising and versatile approach to obtaining reusable and analyte‐specific sensor components.
A Hierarchical Porous Aerogel Prepared from Conjugated Polymer for Rapid and Effective Removal of Organic Micro‐Pollutants from Water
Authors: Shang Zhikun , Zheng Hongyu , Chen Shiyong , Zhang Xuezheng , Jin Huixian , Ding Yun , Hu Aiguo
Published: November 2023

Water pollution caused by organic micro‐pollutants is seriously harmful to aquatic ecosystem and human health. In this work, a hierarchical porous aerogel (HPAG) prepared from rigid conjugated polymers is used to remove organic micro‐pollutants from water. Thanks to the hierarchical porous structure and rich π electrons, HPAG showed a fast adsorption rate and high adsorption capacity for adsorbates. The maximum equilibrium adsorption capacity of HPAG for bisphenol A, 1‐naphthylamine, and naphthalene is 60.5, 50.9 and 63.9 mg g−1 at 10 ppm, respectively, and the adsorption behaviors were in accordance with the Freundlich model. HPAG exhibited a high preference in adsorbing organic micro‐pollutants with high hydrophobicity, and the removal efficiency for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons reached over 95%. The HPAG can be easily recycled and regenerated after washing with dichloromethane, and the adsorption performance maintained above 82% after 5 cycles.
Estimates for generalized wave‐type Fourier multipliers on modulation spaces and applications
Authors: Lu Yufeng
Published: November 2023

We consider the boundedness of the Fourier multipliers on modulation spaces, where defined on is a positive homogeneous function with degree and is a smooth function satisfying some decay conditions. We prove the boundedness of this kind of Fourier multipliers and obtain its asymptotic estimates as goes to infinity. We remote the restriction in Deng, Ding, and Sun's result in [Nonlinear Anal. 85 (2013), 78–92], and we consider the more general form of this multiplier. As applications, we obtain the grow‐up rate of the solutions for the Cauchy problems for the generalized wave and Klein–Gordon equations, and we obtain the local well‐posedness of nonlinear wave and Klein–Gordon equations in modulation spaces.
Multi‐objective decision trees with fuzzy TOPSIS: Application to refugee resettlement planning
Authors: Cilali Buket , Rocco Claudio M. , Barker Kash
Published: November 2023

This study combines the use of multi‐objective decision trees (MODT) and a fuzzy TOPSIS approach to cope with sequential decision‐making under uncertainty with multiple conflicting objectives. To this aim, the MODT generates a Pareto‐optimal frontier of solutions for competing objectives, while fuzzy TOPSIS helps assess the noninferior solutions and assign weights to the objectives by considering possible uncertainties in outcomes as well as potential linguistic expression. The proposed approach is illustrated with a temporal decision problem concerning climate‐driven refugee resettlement, taking into consideration the challenges of global warming and system interdependencies in an uncertain context. The fuzzy TOPSIS approach was illustrated using two different procedures, and the procedure based on vector normalisation graphically depicts the fuzzy triangular representation of the final ranking.
Non‐invasive omics analysis delineates molecular changes in water‐only fasting and its sex‐discriminating features in metabolic syndrome patients
Authors: Jiang Yanyu , Tang Zhimei , Zhu Xiaogang , Xiao Biying , Tian Hechuan , Lei Xingxing , Peng Huan , Qin Jun , Zhang Yanmei , Hoffman Robert M. , Hu Xiaorong , Chen Qiu , Ji Guang , Jia Lijun
Published: November 2023

Fasting has been grown in popularity with multiple potential benefits. However, very few studies dynamically monitor physiological and pathological changes during long‐term fasting using noninvasive methods. In the present study, we recruited 37 individuals with metabolic syndrome to engage in a 5‐day water‐only fasting regimen, and simultaneously captured the molecular alterations through urinary proteomics and metabolomics. Our findings reveal that water‐only fasting significantly mitigated metabolic syndrome‐related risk markers, such as body weight, body mass index, abdominal circumference, blood pressure, and fasting blood glucose levels in metabolic syndrome patients. Indicators of liver and renal function remained within the normal range, with the exception of uric acid. Notably, inflammatory response was inhibited during the water‐only fasting period, as evidenced by a decrease in the human monocyte differentiation antigen CD14. Intriguingly, glycolysis, tricarboxylic acid cycle, and oxidative phosphorylation underwent a sex‐dependent reprogramming throughout the fasting period, whereby males exhibited a greater upregulation of carbohydrate metabolism‐related enzymes than females. This disparity may be attributed to evolutionary pressures. Collectively, our study sheds light on the beneficial physiological effects and novel dynamic molecular features associated with fasting in individuals with metabolic syndrome using noninvasive methods.
Digital Technology Offers Opportunities Amid Water Industry Challenges
Authors: Orth Mike
Published: November 2023

Given so many headwinds, it's a wonder that US water utility operators get much sleep these days: chronically aging infrastructure, climate change, cyber predators, workforce staffing headaches, a shifting regulatory landscape, budget tightropes, broad public misperceptions about rates and the value of water…the list goes on. Yet for the US water industry, Black & Veatch's survey‐driven 2023 Water Report (www.bv.com/resources/2023-water-report) finds a wealth of opportunity.
The racial wealth gap, financial aid, and college access
Authors: Levine Phillip B. , Ritter Dubravka
Published: November 2023

We examine how the racial wealth gap interacts with financial aid in American higher education to generate a disparate impact on college access and outcomes. Retirement savings and home equity are excluded from the formula used to estimate the amount a family can afford to pay. All else equal, omitting those assets mechanically increases the financial aid available to families that hold them. White families are more likely to own those assets and in larger amounts. We document this issue and explore its relationship with observed differences in college attendance, types of institutions attended, degrees attained, and education debt using data from the Survey of Consumer Finances (SCF), the National Postsecondary Student Aid Study (NPSAS), and the Panel Study of Income Dynamics (PSID). We show that this treatment of assets provides an implicit subsidy worth thousands of dollars annually to students from families with above‐median incomes. White students receive larger subsidies relative to Black students and Hispanic students with similar family incomes, and this gap in subsidies is associated with disadvantages in educational advancement and student loan levels. It may explain 10 percent to 15 percent of white students’ advantage in these outcomes relative to Black students and Hispanic students.
Triazabicyclodecene: A versatile catalyst for polymer synthesis
Authors: Kim Jeung Gon , Lee Gue Seon , Lee Anna
Published: November 2023

This comprehensive review aims to provide an in‐depth analysis of the catalytic performance of 1,5,7‐triazabicyclo[4,4,0]dec‐5‐ene (TBD) in polymer synthesis. TBD, a well‐established organic superbase, possesses a distinctive bifunctional character that grants it exceptional capabilities, particularly in processes such as transesterification or transamidation. TBD has garnered considerable attention since its initial report by Hedrick and Waymouth in 2006, and it has played a pivotal role in diverse polymerization reactions. Its versatility spans various polymerization modes, including chain‐growth and step‐growth polymerization, post‐polymerization modification, and network thermoset formation. More recently, its utility has extended to the green chemical recycling of polymers. By providing an encompassing overview of TBD's historical journey, this review delves into its past accomplishments while shedding light on its present and future potential to organocatalysts in polymer science.