bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Depiction of Normal and Variant Anatomy of Coronary Artery 64 Slice Multi Detector Computed Tomography (MDCT) Coronary Angiography among North Indian Population
Authors: Richa Patel , Kant Tiwari Satya
Published: November 2023

The aim of the study was to access and review the appearance of normal pattern of left and right coronary artery and their anatomic variants and to assess the incidence of anatomic variants in subject of North Indian population who underwent 64 slice Computed Tomographic coronary Angiography (CT-CA) for suspected or known of coronary artery disease (CAD) This study was carried out in the Departments of Radiodiagnosis, KGMU, U.P, Lucknow, India. Total One hundred and fifty CT Coronary Angiograms of routine subjects of either sex and of different age groups coming to the department of Radiodiagnosis were evaluated prospectively to see the normal and variant anatomy of right and Left Coronary Arteries regarding their origin, length of main trunk and branching pattern and the result in term of incidence was evaluated. Most common origin of Right coronary artery (RCA) and left coronary artery  (LCA) was from left posterior erotic sinus and RCA from interior erotic sinus the main branch of RCA aim of this study was to review the appearance of normal patterns of right and left coronary arteries their anatomic variants and anomalies and to assess their incidence in subjects of North India who underwent 64-slice Computed Tomographic Coronary Angiography (CT-CA) for suspected or known coronary artery disease (CAD). Most common origin of Right coronary artery (RCA) was anterior aortic sinus and left coronary artery (LCA) from Left Posterior Aortic Sinus (LPAS). The main branches of Right coronary artery (RCA) are sinoatrial nodal artery (78%), conus artery (86%), acute marginal branches, posterior descending artery (86%). The two main branches of the left coronary artery (LCA) are Left Circumflex (LCX) artery and Left Anterior Descending (LAD) artery. This study revealed that the main trunk of LCA bifurcated into LCX artery and LAD artery in 68% subjects. The most common position of orifices of Right coronary artery (RCA) and left coronary artery (LCA) was below the Sino tubular junction (82%).  The artery was seen to be trifurcating in 30% cases with the Ramus Intermedius (RI) being the third artery and tetrafurcated in 2% subjects.
Regulatory and Informational Gaps in the Over-the-Counter Eye Care Product Industry—Over the Counter, Under the Radar
Authors: Younessi David N. , Lin John C. , Janetos Timothy M.
Published: November 2023

This Viewpoint describes the limitations of regulatory oversight for over-the-counter eye care products and challenges in providing clinical recommendations.
Mutation and clinical analysis of the CLCC1 gene in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis patients from Central South China
Authors: Tang Linxin , Tang Xuxiong , Zhao Qianqian , Li Yongchao , Bu Yue , Liu Zhen , Li Jinchen , Guo Jifeng , Shen Lu , Jiang Hong , Tang Beisha , Xu Renshi , Cao Wenfeng , Yuan Yanchun , Wang Junling
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Recently, chloride channel CLIC‐like 1 (CLCC1) was reported to be a novel ALS‐related gene. We aimed to screen CLCC1 variants in our ALS cohort and further explore the genotype–phenotype correlation of CLCC1‐related ALS.

Methods

We screened rare damaging variants in CLCC1 from our cohorts of 1005 ALS patients and 1224 healthy controls with whole‐exome sequencing in Central South China. Fisher's exact test was conducted for association analysis at the entire gene level and single variant level.

Results

In total, four heterozygous missense variants in CLCC1 were identified from four unrelated sporadic ALS patients and predicted to be putative pathogenic by in silico tools and protein model prediction, accounting for 0.40% of all patients (4/1005). The four variants were c.A275C (p.Q92P), c.G1139A (p.R380K), c.C1244T (p.T415M), and c.G1328A (p.R443Q), respectively, which had not been reported in ALS patients previously. Three of four variants were located in exon 10. Patients harboring CLCC1 variants seemed to share a group of similar clinical features, including earlier age at onset, rapid progression, spinal onset, and vulnerable cognitive status. Statistically, we did not find CLCC1 to be associated with the risk of ALS at the entire gene level or single variant level.

Conclusion

Our findings further expanded the genetic and clinical spectrum of CLCC1‐related ALS and provided more genetic evidence for anion channel involvement in the pathogenesis of ALS, but further investigations are needed to verify our findings.
Metal‐Free Eutectic Electrolyte with Weak Hydrogen Bonds for High‐Rate and Ultra‐Stable Ammonium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Hong Hu , Zhu Jiaxiong , Wang Yiqiao , Wei Zhiquan , Guo Xun , Yang Shuo , Zhang Rong , Cui Huilin , Li Qing , Zhang Dechao , Zhi Chunyi
Published: November 2023

As the need for sustainable battery chemistry grows, non‐metallic ammonium ion (NH4+) batteries are receiving considerable attention because of their unique properties, such as low cost, nontoxicity, and environmental sustainability. In this study, the solvation interactions between NH4+ and solvents are elucidated and design principles for NH4+ weakly solvated electrolytes are proposed. Given that hydrogen bond interactions dominate the solvation of NH4+ and solvents, the strength of the solvent's electrostatic potential directly determines the strength of its solvating power. As a proof of concept, succinonitrile with relatively weak electronegativity is selected to construct a metal‐free eutectic electrolyte (MEE). As expected, this MEE is able to significantly broaden the electrochemical stability window and reduce the solvent binding energy in the solvation shell, which leads to a lower desolvation energy barrier and a fast charge transfer process. As a result, the as‐constructed NH4‐ion batteries exhibit superior reversible rate capability (energy density of 65 Wh kg–1total active mass at 600 W kg–1) and unprecedent long‐term cycling performance (retention of 90.2% after 1000 cycles at 1.0 A g–1). The proposed methodology for constructing weakly hydrogen bonded electrolytes will provide guidelines for implementing high‐rate and ultra‐stable NH4+‐based energy storage systems.
Multiscale Interpenetrated/Interconnected Network Design Confers All‐Carbon Aerogels with Unprecedented Thermomechanical Properties for Thermal Insulation under Extreme Environments
Authors: Chang Xinyi , Wu Fan , Cheng Xiaota , Zhang Hao , He Lijuan , Li Wenjing , Yin Xia , Yu Jianyong , Liu Yi‐Tao , Ding Bin
Published: November 2023

With ultralight weight, low thermal conductivity, and extraordinary high‐temperature resistance, carbon aerogels hold tremendous potential against severe thermal threats encountered by hypersonic vehicles during the in‐orbit operation and re‐entry process. However, current 3D aerogels are plagued by irreconcilable contradictions between adiabatic and mechanical performance due to monotonicity of the building blocks or uncontrollable assembly behavior. Herein, a spatially confined assembly strategy of multiscale low‐dimensional nanocarbons is reported to decouple the stress and heat transfer. The nanofiber framework, a basis for transferring the loading strain, is covered by a continuous thin‐film‐like layer formed by the aggregation of nanoparticles, which in combination serve as the fundamental structural units for generating an elastic behavior while yielding compartments in aerogels to suppress the gaseous fluid thermal diffusion within distinct partitions. The resulting all‐carbon aerogels with a hierarchical cellular structure and quasi‐closed cell walls achieve the best thermomechanical and insulation trade‐off, exhibiting flyweight density (24 mg cm−3), temperature‐constant compressibility (−196–1600 °C), and a low thermal conductivity of 0.04 829 W m−1 K−1 at 300 °C. This strategy provides a remarkable thermal protection material in hostile environments for future aerospace exploration.
Arterial tortuosity in pediatric Loeys‐Dietz syndrome patients
Authors: Brunet‐Garcia Laia , Prabaharan Pirasuja , Bruyndonckx Luc , Field Ella , D'Arco Felice , Capelli Claudio , Cervi Elena
Published: November 2023

Loeys‐Dietz syndrome (LDS) is an autosomal connective tissue disorder commonly presenting with hypertelorism, bifid uvula, aortic aneurysms, and arterial tortuosity. The aim of the present study was to investigate differences in tortuosity index (TI) between genotypes of LDS, possible progression over time and its use as an adjunctive prognostic tool alongside aortic dimensions to aid timely surgical planning in pediatric patients. A retrospective observational study of pediatric LDS patients referred to our center (November 2012–February 2021) was conducted. Using magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) with 3D maximum intensity projection volume‐rendered angiogram, arterial TI was measured. Twenty three patients had genetically confirmed LDS with at least one head and neck MRA and 19 had no less than one follow‐up MRA available. All patients presented arterial tortuosity. Patients with TGFBR2 variants had greater values of TI compared to patients with TGFB2 variants (p = 0.041). For patients who did not undergo surgery (n = 18), z‐scores at the level of the sinus of Valsalva showed a significant correlation with vertebral TI (rs = 0.547). There was one death during follow‐up. This study demonstrates that patients with LDS and TGFBR2 variants have greater values of TI than patients with TGFB2 variants and that greatest values of TI are associated with increased aortic root z‐scores. Furthermore, as TI decreases over time, less frequent neuroimaging follow‐up can be considered. Nevertheless, additional studies are needed to better define more accurate risk stratification and long‐term surveillance in these patients.
Halogenated Phenazinothiadiazoles: Electron‐Transporting Materials
Authors: Zong Wansheng , Hippchen Nikolai , Dittmar Benedikt , Elter Maximilian , Ludwig Philipp , Rominger Frank , Freudenberg Jan , Bunz Uwe H. F.
Published: November 2023

Triisopropylsilyl‐(TIPS)‐alkynylated phenazinothiadiazoles were prepared by the condensation of halogenated ortho‐quinones and TIPS‐alkynylated 5,6‐diamino‐2,1,3‐benzothiadiazole with different combinations of halogen substituents. The compounds pack in brickwall motif of head‐to‐head dimers featuring intermolecular S−N contacts and short π‐π distances, suggesting their suitability as n‐channel materials in organic thin film transistors. The halogenated phenazinothiadiazoles show electron mobilities μmax ranging between 0.14 cm2 V−1 s−1 and 0.76 cm2 V−1 s−1.
Bromine Substitution Improves the Photothermal Performance of π‐Conjugated Phototheranostic Molecules
Authors: Wan Feiyan , Wang Huan , Gu Ying , Fan Guilin , Hou Shengxin , Yu Jiantao , Wang Mengying , He Feng , Tian Leilei
Published: November 2023

NIR‐II fluorescence imaging–guided photothermal therapy (PTT) has been widely investigated due to its great application potential in tumor theranostics. PTT is an effective and non‐invasive tumor treatment method that can adapt to tumor hypoxia; nevertheless, simple and effective strategies are still desired to develop new materials with excellent PTT properties to meet clinical requirements. In this work, we developed a bromine‐substitution strategy to enhance the PTT of A‐D‐A’‐D‐A π‐conjugated molecules. The experimental results reveal that bromine substitution can notably enhance the absorptivity (ϵ) and photothermal conversion efficiency (PCE) of the π‐conjugated molecules, resulting in the brominated molecules generating two times more heat (ϵ808 nm×PCE) than their unsubstituted counterpart. We disclose that the enhanced photothermal properties of bromine‐substituted π‐conjugated molecules are a combined outcome of the heavy‐atom effect, enhanced ICT effect, and more intense bromine‐mediate intermolecular π–π stacking. Finally, the NIR‐II tumor imaging capability and efficient PTT tumor ablation of the brominated π‐conjugated materials demonstrate that bromine substitution is a promising strategy for developing future high‐performance NIR‐II imaging‐guided PTT agents.
Modeling of Gasification of Sewage Sludge for Phosphorus Recovery and Hydrogen Generation
Authors: Stephan Kevin , Gronen Lars , König Hans-Peter , Siemann Uwe , Drissen Peter , Krumm Wolfgang
Published: November 2023

Due to the amendment of sewage sludge ordinance in Germany, phosphorus must be recovered from sewage sludge in the future. Previously developed phosphorus recycling processes are not economically viable due to high material and energetic expenditures. Gasification of dried sewage sludge enables the energetic utilization of sewage sludge and provides the energy for phosphorus recovery. The present paper focuses on thermodynamic modeling of the gasification system to demonstrate the potential for holistic utilization of dried sewage sludge as phosphorus fertilizer. The results shows that an energy self‐sufficient, optimized process can be realized for recovery of phosphorus by gasification and subsequent thermo‐chemical treatment of dried sewage sludge.
Electrochemical Reduction of Benzo[b]thiophene 1,1‐Dioxides with HFIP as Hydrogen Donor†
Authors: Guo Ming‐Zhong , Mou Mei‐Jin , Chen Zhuo , Ni Shao‐Fei , Li Ming , Wen Li‐Rong , Zhang Lin‐Bao
Published: November 2023

Comprehensive Summary

A straightforward electrochemical reduction of benzo[b]thiophene 1,1‐dioxides with HFIP as the hydrogen donor has been reported in an undivided cell under metal‐free conditions. Moreover, the tolerance of various functional groups and scaled‐up experiments showed the practicability and potential applications of this methodology.
Astrocyte ensheathment of calyx‐forming axons of the auditory brainstem precedes accelerated expression of myelin genes and myelination by oligodendrocytes
Authors: Heller Daniel T. , Kolson Douglas R. , Brandebura Ashley N. , Amick Emily M. , Wan Jun , Ramadan Jad , Holcomb Paul S. , Liu Sheng , Deerinck Thomas J. , Ellisman Mark H. , Qian Jiang , Mathers Peter H. , Spirou George A.
Published: November 2023

Early postnatal brain development involves complex interactions among maturing neurons and glial cells that drive tissue organization. We previously analyzed gene expression in tissue from the mouse medial nucleus of the trapezoid body (MNTB) during the first postnatal week to study changes that surround rapid growth of the large calyx of Held (CH) nerve terminal. Here, we present genes that show significant changes in gene expression level during the second postnatal week, a developmental timeframe that brackets the onset of airborne sound stimulation and the early stages of myelination. Gene Ontology analysis revealed that many of these genes are related to the myelination process. Further investigation of these genes using a previously published cell type‐specific bulk RNA‐Seq data set in cortex and our own single‐cell RNA‐Seq data set in the MNTB revealed enrichment of these genes in the oligodendrocyte lineage (OL) cells. Combining the postnatal day (P)6–P14 microarray gene expression data with the previously published P0–P6 data provided fine temporal resolution to investigate the initiation and subsequent waves of gene expression related to OL cell maturation and the process of myelination. Many genes showed increasing expression levels between P2 and P6 in patterns that reflect OL cell maturation. Correspondingly, the first myelin proteins were detected by P4. Using a complementary, developmental series of electron microscopy 3D image volumes, we analyzed the temporal progression of axon wrapping and myelination in the MNTB. By employing a combination of established ultrastructural criteria to classify reconstructed early postnatal glial cells in the 3D volumes, we demonstrated for the first time that astrocytes within the mouse MNTB extensively wrap the axons of the growing CH terminal prior to OL cell wrapping and compaction of myelin. Our data revealed significant expression of several myelin genes and enrichment of multiple genes associated with lipid metabolism in astrocytes, which may subserve axon wrapping in addition to myelin formation. The transition from axon wrapping by astrocytes to OL cells occurs rapidly between P4 and P9 and identifies a potential new role of astrocytes in priming calyceal axons for subsequent myelination.
The maximum of log‐correlated Gaussian fields in random environment
Authors: Schweiger Florian , Zeitouni Ofer
Published: November 2023

We study the distribution of the maximum of a large class of Gaussian fields indexed by a box and possessing logarithmic correlations up to local defects that are sufficiently rare. Under appropriate assumptions that generalize those in Ding et al., we show that asymptotically, the centered maximum of the field has a randomly‐shifted Gumbel distribution. We prove that the two dimensional Gaussian free field on a super‐critical bond percolation cluster with close enough to 1, as well as the Gaussian free field in i.i.d. bounded conductances, fall under the assumptions of our general theorem.
Measuring Greenhouse Gases in Dairy Soils: Innovative Technologies to Advance In‐the‐Field Research
Authors: Boehl Jamie Vander Molen
Published: November 2023

This is the third article in our series on soil health and greenhouse gas emissions on U.S. dairies associated with crop production. This article will focus on innovative technologies to advance in‐the‐field research. Earn 1 CEU in Sustainability by reading this article and taking the quiz at https://web.sciencesocieties.org/Learning‐Center/Courses.
What Is a 4R Plant Nutrient?
Authors: Bruulsema Tom , Nigon Leanna Leverich
Published: November 2023

What is a plant nutrient? For many decades, plant nutrients have been defined by the concept of essentiality. More recently, however, 4R nutrient stewardship has been defined as management that produces sustainable outcomes. Some elements provide benefits even if they are not essential. A new definition of what a plant nutrient is has been proposed and is under consideration by authorities in fertilizer regulation. Earn 1 CEU in Nutrient Management by reading this article and taking the quiz at https://web.sciencesocieties.org/Learning‐Center/Courses.
Relativistic Weibel instability in magneto‐inertial fusion using Krook collision model
Authors: Belghit Slimen , Zaidi Beddiaf
Published: November 2023

In this work, we studied the relativistic Weibel instability (RWI) in magneto‐inertial fusion experiment (MIFE); for this, the basic equation in our model is the relativistic Fokker–Planck equation. We solve the dispersion relation of low frequency and deduce the growth rate of RWI. The main results obtained are that the IBA source alone is capable to reduce the RWI, and also the coupling between it and the external magnetic field contributes strongly to achieving a reduction of the RWI, it has been shown clearly that the relativistic effect under this conditions can be decrease the values of growth rate of WI.
Diel activity structures the occurrence of a mammal community in a human‐dominated landscape
Authors: Mayer Amy E. , Ganoe Laken S. , Brown Charles , Gerber Brian D.
Published: November 2023

Anthropogenic developments alter the environment and resources available to wildlife communities. In response to these real or perceived threats from this development, species may adjust their spatial occurrence. Additionally, wildlife species may adjust when in diel time (24‐h light–dark cycle) they occupy sites on the landscape to adapt to changing conditions. However, many wildlife studies only focus on where a species does and does not occur, ignoring how species may shift their diel activity at sites to mitigate threats. We used a multi‐state diel occupancy modeling framework to investigate how a community of mammals (mesocarnivores, urban‐adapted omnivores, and herbivore/small mammals) respond to differing levels of anthropogenic development and forest cover across two climatic seasons. We collected camera trap data at 240 survey locations across the summer and winter of 2021–2022. We modeled multi‐state diel occupancy for 14 mammal species with extent of development/forest and season hypothesized to influence diel occupancy and season hypothesized to influence the probability of detection. We found that all species displayed heterogeneity in both diel occupancy and detection either by extent of development/forest and or season. Within the mesocarnivore species group, coyote and red fox were less sensitive to development and had higher occupancy probability at these sites in general but used them more during the night, while more sensitive mesocarnivores including fisher and bobcat occupied the day state only when there was increasing forest cover. Our results highlight the importance of incorporating diel activity in habitat modeling to better understand the relationship between a species and its landscape, particularly in a region that is vulnerable to increased anthropogenic pressure.
CuI Coordination Polymer‐Catalyzed Azide–Alkyne Cycloaddition Click Reaction at Room Temperature
Authors: Sahoo Subham , Patra Rajesh , Rom Tanmay , Paul Avijit Kumar , Sarma Debajit
Published: November 2023

Framework based compounds for eco‐friendly catalysis is of utmost industrial interest. CuI‐catalyzed “click” reactions are a class of highly efficient and widely used chemical reactions in organic synthesis for potential applications in biotechnology, medicine, polymer, and material sciences. The importance of click chemistry also acknowledge by 2022 Noble Prize in chemistry. One of the most well‐known click reactions is the copper‐catalyzed azide‐alkyne cycloaddition (CuAAC), which is a type of Huisgen 1,3‐dipolar cycloaddition reaction. Herein, three stable copper(I)‐coordination polymers (CPs), [Cu(4‐ABPT)Cl], CP‐1; [Cu(4‐ABPT)Br], CP‐2; [Cu2(4‐ABPT)0.5I2], CP‐3; (4‐ABPT=3,5‐di(pyridine‐4‐yl)‐4H‐1,2,4‐triazol‐4‐amine) have been chosen for CuAAC reaction, due to presence of both Lewis acidic (copper ion), and basic (pyridyl and amine) sites. The counter anion plays a crucial role in their structural motif as well as catalytic efficiency. These easily synthesizable and scalable catalysts exhibit the trend of CP‐1>CP‐2>CP‐3 in catalysis for the selective conversion of phenylacetylene, benzyl bromide, and sodium azide into 1,4‐cycloaddition product within 2 h at ambient temperature and solvent free reaction conditions. CuAAC reaction using catalyst CP‐1 exhibits near quantitative conversion within 2 h at room temperature in solvent free conditions. Herein, we demonstrated the bulk‐scale synthesis of CuI CPs for efficient azide‐alkyne cycloaddition click reaction under mild reaction conditions.
An embedded obstacle type micromixer‐concentration gradient generator based on capillary driven
Authors: Huang Sisi , Wu Yihao , Wang Yifan , Hu Xiaoling , Song Kui
Published: November 2023

An embedded obstacle‐type micromixer‐concentration gradient generator based on capillary self‐driven is proposed and studied. Herringbone structure (HS) for mixing and palisade‐shape small channels at the outlet are designed in the device (named HS). Simulation and experimentation are done to study the liquid mixing efficiency in the small channels and concentration gradient at the outlet, and the experimental results agree with the simulation results. For three cases of liquid dripping (sequential, reverse, and delayed drippings), mixing analysis shows that the mixing efficiency increases along both mixing channel and palisade length, and is high in the middle small channel of the palisade‐shape area and low on both sides. An obvious concentration gradient at the outlet can form compared with the device without the palisade‐shape area. Finally, water pH value detection is done as one of the applications of HS. This study can provide guidance for the application of HS in biochemical detection, cell research, drug screening, etc. based on the capillary‐driven effect.
Oral intake of carboxy alkyl ester improves attention: A randomized double‐blind cross‐over placebo‐controlled study
Authors: Guthrie O'neil W. , Yang Li
Published: November 2023

Objective

To test the null hypothesis that oral intake of the dietary supplement carboxy alkyl ester (CAE) would have no effect on attention as revealed by mean rapid visual information processing (RVIP) scores.

Methods

In a randomized double‐blind cross‐over placebo‐controlled trial, healthy participants (age 19–66 years) of both sexes were randomly assigned to consume 700 mg of CAE or 700 mg of placebo. They received baseline attention testing via the RVIP task. Then they consumed CAE or placebo followed by RVIP testing. Participants were then given a washout period where they did not consume CAE or placebo. Afterward, individuals who initially consumed CAE were given the placebo and those who initially consumed the placebo were given CAE. Finally, all participants were tested again via RVIP.

Results

A priori statistical computation revealed that 30‐day oral intake of CAE improved mean RVIP test scores (t = 2.4, p < .05) relative to that at baseline, which resulted in a rejection of the null hypothesis.

Conclusions

Daily oral intake of the CAE dietary supplement may boost attention and further research is now needed to confirm this observation.
Attenuation of the contribution of groundwater to a wetland caused by groundwater overexploitation
Authors: Zhou Tianyu , Shu Longcang , Lu Chengpeng , Liu Bo
Published: November 2023

The continuous exploitation of groundwater has made wetland degradation an ecological and geological environmental problem that cannot be ignored and has had impacts on the ecological environment and human production and life. In this study, Modflow was used to simulate the wetland‐aquifer interaction during the multiyear pumping process, establish a quasi‐ideal model of wetlands based on the actual area of the Baiyangdian Basin, simulate the relationship of water quantity change between wetlands and piedmont plain aquifers during groundwater exploitation and its natural recovery process, and quantify the attenuation of the contribution of groundwater to wetlands caused by groundwater overexploitation. Two components of wetland water reduction are explored through the simulation and calculation of wetland‐aquifer interactions under different exploitation conditions. The results show that in the process of groundwater exploitation, the impact of groundwater overexploitation on wetland degradation is mainly divided into two parts: one is the reduced base flow from the piedmont plain to the wetland, and the other is the induced infiltration caused by the reverse recharge of groundwater from the wetland due to the pumping effect. Compared with the wetland water reduction during the pumping process, the process of water recovery during the natural recovery process is much slower, which indicates the residual effect of exploitation will continue for a long time. The findings provide a scientific reference for the management of water resources in wetland areas.
Relationship between human herpesvirus 6 infection and inflammatory bowel disease using novel biomarker
Authors: Matsumoto Satohiro , Otaki Yuzo , Yoshida Yukio , Kobayashi Nobuyuki , Oka Naomi , Yanagisawa Hiroyuki , Kondo Kazuhiro
Published: November 2023

Objective

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is closely related to stress and fatigue. Human herpesvirus 6B (HHV‐6B) is reactivated by stress and fatigue and is associated with IBD. This study aimed to clarify the relationship between IBD and HHV‐6B.

Methods

Antibody titers to SITH‐1, a protein specific to HHV‐6B latent infection, were measured in 163 patients with IBD (107 with ulcerative colitis [UC] and 56 with Crohn's disease [CD]); clinical and endoscopic scores and depression scores of UC and CD were analyzed to examine the relationship between SITH‐1 and IBD. The SITH‐1 cut‐off value was set as 1.96, according to known reports.

Results

In patients with UC, C‐reactive protein (CRP) level was significantly higher (1.5 vs 0.6 mg/L, P = 0.006) and disease exacerbation within 6 months after entry was significantly more common in the SITH‐1 (+) group (20% vs 0%, P < 0.001). In the subanalysis comparing with and without UC exacerbation, the optimal cut‐off value for SITH‐1 to detect UC exacerbation was 3.44 (area under the curve: 0.81; 95% confidence interval: 0.72–0.90). CRP levels, SITH‐1 levels, and disease activity scores by the clinical or endoscopic index were significantly higher in the exacerbation group than in the non‐exacerbation group (2.6 vs 0.9 mg/L, P = 0.03; 4.90 vs 1.71, P < 0.001; 4 vs 3, P = 0.03; 5 vs 3, P = 0.02; respectively).

Conclusion

Patients with UC with high titers of SITH‐1 have high disease activity and frequent disease exacerbation. SITH‐1 can be associated with UC disease activity.
The impact of social media usage on lifestyle behaviors and health
Authors: Cohen Gregory , Medina Ernesto , Handysides Daniel , Shah Huma , Arechiga Adam , Shih Wendy
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Despite the increasing popularity of social media, little research has been conducted on its impact on lifestyle behaviors and health outcomes among adults. This study aimed to investigate whether more frequent social media screen time use is associated with poorer lifestyle behaviors, overweight or obesity, and depressive symptoms. Additionally, this study examined the potential use of social media to positively influence health.

Methods

An anonymous one‐time survey was conducted among English‐speaking social media users aged 18–34 in Southern California. Self‐reported height and weight were used to calculate body mass index (BMI), and the Patient Health Questionnaire‐9 (PHQ‐9) was used to estimate the severity of depressive symptoms. A cumulative risk score for lifestyle behaviors was also tallied. Three focus groups were held with a subset of the survey population to gain insights on social media, lifestyle behaviors, and health. A mixed method analysis was used to analyze the data.

Results

The survey data of 86 complete cases showed a positive correlation (r = 0.421; p < 0.001; 95% confidence interval [CI] [0.223, 0.585]) among PHQ‐9 depression scores and negative correlation (r = −0.230; p = 0.033; 95% CI [−0.426, −0.12]) for BMI compared to actual social media screen time usage, respectively. However, social media screen time usage ≥3 h showed no association for either BMI, depressive symptoms, or cumulative risk score. Participants viewed social media as a “double‐edged sword,” providing benefits such as “connection” and “information sharing,” but also having a negative impact on mental health (theme 1). Participants also believed public health needs to take a more proactive role in using social media, while social media platforms should manage the “authenticity” of content and modify their “algorithms” to improve health and lifestyle practices (theme 2).

Conclusions

This study suggested that social media may have some protective benefits related to becoming overweight or obese as indicated by the focus group participants, but further research is needed on the relationship between social media screen time usage and adult mental health. Social media platforms may have the potential to promote positive lifestyle behaviors and improve health if used properly.
Empirical examination of public debt sustainability in African economies: A panel data analysis
Authors: Shah Syed Sadaqat Ali , Rafique Rabia , Afridi Muhammad Asim
Published: November 2023

This study intends to investigate public debt sustainability across 29 Sub‐Sahara African (SSA) economies, employing various econometric specifications, for the sampled years 1996–2020. The study employs Bohn's (Are stationarity and cointegration restrictions really necessary for the intertemporal budget constraint? Journal of monetary Economics, 54(7), pp.1837–1847.) framework of sustainability as the baseline model to assess public debt sustainability across the sampled Sub‐Sahara African economies. As additional tests of public debt sustainability in order to support the baseline findings, the study also employs panel unit root and timeseries unit tests. The baseline findings from the OLS, panel quantile and instrumental panel quantile regressions show that public debt is sustainable across the panel of SSA economies. The positive and statistically significant response of primary balance under the Bohn's framework of sustainability manifest that the intertemporal budget constraint is not violated in the sampled economies. The consistency in the estimates under the OLS, panel quantile and instrumental panel quantile regressions also show that the estimates are robust throughout the estimation process. Also, utilizing the panel unit root test for public debt sustainability, the findings show that public debt is stationary over the sampled years which implies that intertemporal budget constraint holds and that public debt is sustainable across the sampled SSA economies. However, the timeseries analysis indicate that although majority of the SSA economies have sustainable public debt ratios, four countries namely Uganda, Sudan, Togo and Cote d'Ivoire have unsustainable public debt ratios. The study has important policy implications in terms of prudent public debt management and fiscal management for the sampled SSA economies.
In vitro study design derived from an in vivo lifting task
Authors: Brenzel Katharina , Johnen Laura , Praster Maximilian , Blomeyer Nadja , Weiler August , Brandl Christopher , Topol Heiko , Stoffel Marcus , Markert Bernd
Published: November 2023

Biomechanical properties of the spinal tissue constituents, especially in the intervertebral disc (IVD), contribute to disability and high costs. The IVD is considered to be one of the main etiologies of chronic low back pain. Changes in the biomechanical properties of the spine, especially in the IVD, are related to multiple factors such as type and duration of loading, recovery periods, osmosis, relaxation, and diffusion processes. To quantify spinal burden in vivo, various dose models have been developed in the context of ergonomics research. In our work both in vivo and in vitro studies were conducted to investigate the effects of loading and rest periods alteration on mechanical properties of the spine. A multibody simulation (MBS) was used to translate the collected motion data from the in vivo study into forces and moments as boundary conditions for the in vitro study. An in vitro spine test rig is used to apply axial compression forces and pure moment loading in flexion/extension direction to spinal segments according to the conditions that have been determined in the MBS. In this article, an approach is presented to coordinate the boundary conditions in vivo and in vitro in order to carry out a holistic investigation. In addition, it is shown why cyclic preconditioning seems to be a more suitable preparation of the samples compared to a constant one in this experimental context.
On probabilistic entropies application in uniaxial deformation of hyper‐elastic materials
Authors: Kamiński Marcin
Published: November 2023

Uncertainty quantification and reliability assessment for uniaxial tension of some hyper‐elastic material characterized by a few different constitutive equations is analyzed in this paper. The stretch of hyper‐elastic material is adopted as the Gaussian input with given expected value's range relevant to the experimentation and constant standard deviation. This goal is achieved with the use of the stochastic perturbation technique to calculate the first two probabilistic moments of the increasing tensile stress. Additionally, the Shannon probabilistic entropy fluctuations are determined for this test. Finally, reliability index is calculated using the stress‐based limit function and two reliability approaches–the First Order Reliability Method and the Bhattacharyya relative entropy.
The research landscape of direct, sensory human–nature interactions
Authors: Evans Maldwyn J. , Gaston Kevin J. , Cox Daniel T. C. , Soga Masashi
Published: November 2023

Gaining a comprehensive understanding of the human–nature interactions research landscape can benefit researchers by providing insights into the most relevant topics, popular research areas and the distribution of topics across different disciplines, journals and regions.

The research literature on direct human–nature interactions is constituted from a rich and diverse spectrum of disciplines. This multidisciplinary structure poses challenges in keeping up with developments and trends.

We conducted a multidisciplinary text‐analysis review of research on direct, sensory human–nature interactions to understand the main topics of research, the types of interactions, the disciplines within which they manifest in the literature, their growth through time and their global localities and contexts.

Our analysis of 2773 articles showed that there has been recent growth in research interest in positive human–nature interactions that is biased towards high‐income countries. There is a substantial body of research on negative human–nature interactions, mostly from the medical fields, which is distinct from research on positive human–nature interactions in other fields such as ecology, psychology, social science, environmental management and tourism. Of particular note is the very large amount of medical research on the causes and consequences of snake bites, particularly in Asia.

Understanding the relationship between these two contrasting types of interactions is of significant practical importance. More recent attention towards positive human–nature interactions in high‐income societies biases views of the relationship between people and nature.

Research into human–nature interactions needs to take the next step towards a unified and holistic understanding of the benefits and costs of direct experiences with nature. This step is crucial to achieve a more sustainable future that benefits both biodiversity and human society, during great environmental and climatic change.

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Stimuli‐responsive properties of double network hydrogels derived from κ‐carrageenan and poly (acrylamide)
Authors: Lv Yajing , Liu Lu , Cao Liqin
Published: November 2023

The utilization of stretchable, antifreezing hydrogels is imperative when using them as electrolyte membranes and ionic conductors for flexible energy storage devices or electronic skin. However, a problem still persists in the formation of a functional hydrogel with comprehensive performance including antifreezing, temperature‐sensitive, favorable reusability, and self‐healing properties. Herein, through anionic κ‐carrageenan (κ‐CG) as the physical noncovalent crosslinking network of the hydrogel, and acrylamide (AM) as monomers forming the second network through chemical crosslinking, κ‐CG‐Li+/PAM double‐network (DM) hydrogels were obtained by one‐pot thermally initiated polymerization. The DM structure showed excellent fracture strain and strong breaking stress, and lithium ions ensure its good electrical conductivity. The transparency of the hydrogel could reach above 91.0%, and the freezing point of the resultant gel was −34.9°C, which was measured by differential scanning calorimetry at low temperature. The as‐synthesized DM gel exhibited robust tensile properties with tensile elongation of 1840% and fracture energy of 967.3 kJ/m3. The response sensitivity of the hydrogel as a wearable sensor in different environments was explored. κ‐CG‐Li+/PAM could not only respond in the large strain range of 100%–400% but also capture the change in 0.1% strain. The deformation sensitivity was GF = 1.83 at 200% compressive strain range, and the hydrogel had a pressure sensitivity of 2.71 kPa−1 over the pressure range of 0–5 kPa. In addition to the properties of ionic conductive hydrogels, the hydrogel demonstrated outstanding temperature sensitivity in the human body temperature range of 35°C–40°C or in the range of 20°C–60°C (TCR = 1.628/°C).
The bodily threat monitoring scale: Development and preliminary validation in adult and childhood cancer survivors
Authors: Heathcote Lauren C. , Webster Sarah N. , Loecher Nele , Spunt Sheri L. , Simon Pamela , Pradhan Poorva , Coutts‐Bain Daelin , Sharpe Louise , Tutelman Perri R. , Simons Laura E.
Published: November 2023

Objective

Bodily threat monitoring is a core clinical feature of Fear of cancer recurrence (FCR) and is targeted in psycho‐oncology treatments, yet no comprehensive self‐report measure exists. The aim of this study was the theory‐informed development and initial validation of the Bodily Threat Monitoring Scale (BTMS).

Methods

Adult survivors of breast and gynaecological cancers (Study 1: N = 306, age = 37–81 years) and childhood cancer survivors (Study 2: N = 126, age = 10–25 years) completed the BTMS, designed to assess how individuals monitor for and interpret uncertain symptoms as indicating that something is wrong with their body. Participants completed measures to assess construct and criterion validity of the BTMS, and childhood cancer survivors (Study 2) completed the BTMS again 2 weeks later to assess test‐retest reliability.

Results

The 19‐item BTMS demonstrated excellent internal consistency across adult and childhood cancer samples (α = 0.90–0.96). Factor analyses indicated two subscales capturing 1. Monitoring of bodily sensations and 2. Threatening interpretations of bodily sensations. Two‐week stability estimates were acceptable. For construct validity, the BTMS correlated with body vigilance and anxiety sensitivity. The BTMS also demonstrated criterion validity, yielding significant associations with FCR, intolerance of uncertainty, help‐seeking behaviours, and quality of life. The BTMS was associated with FCR while controlling for body vigilance and anxiety sensitivity, indicating a unique contribution of this theory‐informed measure.

Conclusions

The BTMS shows evidence of sound psychometric properties and could be used to elucidate the role of bodily threat monitoring in the maintenance and management of FCR.
Syntheses and characterization of isotopically labeled 1,3,5‐triamino‐2,4,6‐trinitrobenzene (TATB)**
Authors: Racoveanu Ana , Coffee Keith R. , Panasci‐Nott Adele F. , Koroglu Batikan , Colla Christopher A. , Lee Jonathan R. I. , Morrison Keith D. , Reynolds John G.
Published: November 2023

Synthesis and characterization of chemical analogues of TATB, where specific atoms in the structure have been isotopically substituted, are reported. 15N, 2H, and 18O have replaced the naturally occurring isotope distributions in the amino and/or the nitro attendant sites and 13C has replaced the carbon in the ring structure. A modified wet‐amination method was used to produce the analogues, and the isotopic replacements were performed by selective choice of labeled precursors. Four 15N‐labeled compounds (N replaced in the amino and nitro positions), two deuterium‐labeled compounds (hydrogens replaced on the amino groups), and one 13C‐labeled compound (C in the ring substituted) were synthesized of high isotopic and chemical purity. One partially labeled 18O‐labeled compound (O in the nitro position) was a result of incomplete labeling due to exchange reactions during synthesis. The compounds were characterized by various spectroscopic methods – mass spectrometry (MS), solid‐state nuclear magnetic resonance (SS‐NMR), infrared (FTIR), powder x‐ray diffraction (PXRD), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), depending upon the substitution. These compounds have been critical to the efforts in understanding the decomposition pathways of TATB when exposed to abnormal thermal environments.
Exploring factors affecting the conversion of the coefficient of restitution to equivalent free fall drop height
Authors: Lin Kang , Ge Changfeng , Qian Jing , Guo Tao , Xia Sixuan
Published: November 2023

The coefficient of restitution (COR) is used to estimate the equivalent free fall drop height of packaging during handling and transportation. Various experimental studies were designed to explore factors affecting the conversion of the COR to equivalent free fall drop height. These factors include the number of drops, drop height, drop orientation, drop base, temperature and humidity on the COR. The results indicate that the number of drops and drop orientation are the two most influential factors affecting COR values. As the package undergoes more drops, the COR increases. Among the various orientations, the COR is largest for flat drops, followed by edge and corner orientations. Within flat drops, a smaller impact area results in a smaller COR. Manufacturing joints and the flats, edges and corners adjacent to manufacturing joints tend to yield smaller COR values. A COR correction matrix was developed to correct the conventional COR calculation. This matrix allows engineers to refine COR values based on the number of drops and drop orientations in the field. The matrix‐corrected equivalent free fall drop heights demonstrated an average accuracy of 96%. Compared to the conventional COR calculation method, it effectively reduces errors by a factor of 2–3.
Toward a strongly coupled assimilation in the Earth System Prediction Capability system
Authors: Yaremchuk M. , Barron C. N. , Crawford W. , DeHaan C. , Rowley C. , Ruston B. , Townsend T.
Published: November 2023

We assess a possibility to efficiently represent the strongly coupled increment in an ocean–atmosphere coupled data assimilation (DA) system by applying an iterative procedure involving uncoupled solvers and the weakly coupled analysis as a first guess approximation to the strongly coupled increment. Using the output of the ensemble‐based weakly coupled DA system, we explore convergence of the approximations to the strongly coupled DA solution by applying the uncoupled solver to a sequence of innovation vectors at various spacetime locations over the global ocean grid. The results demonstrate that, in general, fewer than two iterations are required to approximate the coupled increment in the majority of the locations tested with sufficient (3%) accuracy given the uncertainty of the background error covariance estimated from the limited number of the ensemble members. We assess the impact of data thinning and hybridization of the background error covariance model on the convergence of the iterative approximations to the strongly coupled increment. An empirical relationship between the spectral radius of the expansion matrix and convergence rate is obtained.
Vertically Stacked Transparent Organic Photodetectors for Light Intensity‐Independent Wavelength Recognition
Authors: Song Yinyin , Jiang Qianqing , Liu Dianyi
Published: November 2023

Wavelength recognition is one of the important functions of photodetectors. However, wavelength recognition of the reported photodetectors generally depends on light intensity, which limits the practical applications. Here, a light intensity‐independent wavelength recognition scheme based on vertically stacked transparent photodetectors is reported. By analyzing light intensity attenuation behavior in the multiple stacked photodetectors, the wavelength of incident light can be accurately determined. Due to the high transparency of the detectors, the multiple stacked detectors allow incident light to pass through. Meanwhile, since the attenuation coefficients at different wavelengths are attributed to the detector's absorption characteristics, the intensity of incident light and its wavelength can be determined by analyzing the attenuation coefficients measured through each stacked detector. Consistent wavelength values obtained at different light intensities verify the light intensity‐independence of the multistacked detector system.