bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Longitudinal comparisons of self‐affirmation approaches for sun protection
Authors: Shorey Fennell Bethany , Magnan Renee E. , Hunt Robin L.
Published: February 2023

Objectives

Self‐affirmation approaches for health behaviour demonstrate consistent small to medium effects on message acceptance, health intentions and behaviour change. There are several forms of self‐affirmation (e.g., values affirmations, implementation intentions), but few empirical comparisons to guide selection in empirical work. Further, there has been little emphasis on the putative mechanisms of self‐affirmation driving behaviour change. The current investigation compared a control and four self‐affirmation approaches: values, social, implementation intention, and perspective taking.

Methods

Participants were recruited through CloudResearch (N = 666) and reported baseline sun exposure and protection behaviour at Time 1. One week later (Time 2), returning participants (N = 535) were randomly assigned to condition, viewed a message conveying risks of sun exposure, and reported sun exposure and protection intentions for the next week. Follow‐up one week later (Time 3; N = 449) assessed past week sun exposure (i.e., number of days spent outside during peak hours), sun protection behaviour (e.g., sunscreen use), future sun exposure and protection intentions and engagement with resources conveying further health information (i.e., viewing infographics, following links to websites with more information). The association of putative mechanisms with self‐affirmation conditions and health outcomes was also examined.

Results

Unexpectedly, there were few differences between self‐affirmation conditions and the control on intentions, information seeking, or behaviour at follow‐up. At follow‐up, perspective circle participants reported fewer days spent outside, spent longer viewing infographics, and, along with social values participants, followed more weblinks seeking information than control participants. The putative mechanisms were unrelated to health outcomes.

Conclusions

The current investigation was a first step in comparing novel online self‐affirmation approaches and had largely null findings. Results suggest that the perspective circle performed best at promoting information seeking and, to some extent, behaviour change. Suggestions for future directions are discussed.
An integrative epigenomic approach identifies ELF3 as an oncogenic regulator in ASCL1‐positive neuroendocrine carcinoma
Authors: Horie Masafumi , Tanaka Hidenori , Suzuki Masami , Sato Yoshihiko , Takata So , Takai Erina , Miyashita Naoya , Saito Akira , Nakatani Yoichiro , Yachida Shinichi
Published: February 2023

Neuroendocrine carcinoma (NEC) is a highly aggressive subtype of the neuroendocrine tumor with an extremely poor prognosis. We have previously conducted a comprehensive genomic analysis of over 100 cases of NEC of the gastrointestinal system (GIS‐NEC) and unraveled its unique and organ‐specific genomic drivers. However, the epigenomic features of GIS‐NEC remain unexplored. In this study, we have described the epigenomic landscape of GIS‐NEC and small cell lung carcinoma (SCLC) by integrating motif enrichment analysis from the assay of transposase‐accessible chromatin sequencing (ATAC‐seq) and enhancer profiling from a novel cleavage under targets and tagmentation (CUT&Tag) assay for H3K27ac and identified ELF3 as one of the super‐enhancer–related transcriptional factors in NEC. By combining CUT&Tag and knockdown RNA sequencing for ELF3, we uncovered the transcriptional network regulated by ELF3 and defined its distinctive gene signature, including AURKA, CDC25B, CLDN4, ITGB6, and YWAHB. Furthermore, a loss‐of‐function assay revealed that ELF3 depletion led to poor cell viability. Finally, using gene expression of clinical samples, we successfully divided GIS‐NEC patients into two subgroups according to the ELF3 signature and demonstrated that tumor‐promoting pathways were activated in the ELF3 signature–high group. Our findings highlight the transcriptional regulation of ELF3 as an oncogenic transcription factor and its tumor‐promoting properties in NEC.
Synthetic corticotropins and the GABA‐receptor system: Direct and delayed effects
Authors: Vyunova Tatiana V. , Andreeva Ludmila A. , Shevchenko Konstantin V. , Glazova Nataliya Yu. , Sebentsova Elena A. , Levitskaya Natalia G. , Myasoedov Nikolay F.
Published: February 2023

The central effectors of the stress system are greatly interconnected and include, among others, a large group of peptides derived from proopiomelanocortin. In addition to natural corticotropins, a number of artificial molecules that contain some ACTH fragments in their structure are also referred to members of this family. Some of them possess a wide range of biological activity. The molecular mechanism underlying the biological activity of such peptides is partly based on allosteric modulation of various receptors. We analyzed the ability of some biologically active synthetic corticotropins (ACTH(4‐7)PGP, ACTH(6‐9)PGP, ACTH(7‐10)PGP), and glyproline PGPL to affect the GABA‐receptor system of rat brain. The effects of the peptides were studied in the isolated plasma membranes of brain cells, as well as after systemic peptide administration in the rat model of acute restraint stress. The delayed effect of stress or preadministration of each of the studied peptides on [3H]GABA binding was different for its high‐ and low‐affinity‐specific sites. The studied peptides individually affected the binding of [3H]GABA in their own way. Acute restraint stress caused a decrease in [3H]GABA binding at its low‐affine site and did not affected the high‐affine site. Preliminary peptide administration did not influence this effect of stress.
The beneficial effect of sleep on behavioral health problems in youth is disrupted by prenatal cannabis exposure: A causal random forest analysis of Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development data
Authors: Spechler Philip A. , Gutierrez Roman M. , Tapert Susan F. , Thompson Wesley K. , Paulus Martin P.
Published: February 2023

Studies suggest prenatal cannabis exposure is associated with mood/behavioral problems in children. However, it is unclear if targeting modifiable domains like sleep behaviors would improve outcomes in exposed youth. Using a causal inference framework, the effect of changing sleep‐hours on changing internalizing/externalizing problems in children was examined using the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development™ study baseline (ages 9–10; collected during 2016–2018) and year‐1 follow‐up data (N = 9825; 4663 female; 5196 white). Average treatment effects (ATE) indicated that more sleep predicted less internalizing (ATE = −.34, SE = .08, p < .001) and externalizing (ATE = −.29, SE = .07, p < .001) problems over time. However, prenatal cannabis exposure moderated the ATE on internalizing (conditional‐ATE = .91, SE = .39, p = .019), whereby participants with exposure (n = 605) did not show any effect of changing sleep‐hours on mood (B = .09, SE = .24).
Systematic evaluation of narrow‐sense validity of polygenic risk score for prostate cancer in a Chinese prostate biopsy cohort
Authors: Wu Yishuo , Ruan Xiaohao , Gao Peng , Da Huang , Fang Zujun , Xu Danfeng , Jiang Haowen , Ding Qiang , Lin Xiaoling , Lu Daru , Na Rong
Published: February 2023

The aim of this study was to assess the narrow‐sense validity of polygenic risk score (PRS) for prostate cancer (PCa) in a Chinese prostate biopsy cohort. We performed an observational prospective study with 2640 men who underwent prostate biopsy. Germline DNA samples were genotyped and PRS was calculated for each subject using 17 PCa risk‐associated genetic variants. Additional GWAS data of the ChinaPCa dataset was also used to compliment the evaluation process. The mean PRS was 1.02 in patients with negative biopsy results, which met the baseline benchmark. The mean PRS was significantly higher in the PCa cases (1.32 vs. 1.02, p = 5.56 × 10−17). Significant dose–response associations between PRS values and odds ratios for PCa were observed. However, the raw calibration slope was 0.524 and the average bias score between the observed risk and uncorrected PRS value was 0.307 in the entire biopsy cohort. After applying a correction factor derived from a training set, the corrected calibration slope improved to 1.002 in a testing set. Similar and satisfied results were also seen in the ChinaPCa dataset and two datasets combined, while the calibration results were inaccurate when the calibration process were performed mutually between two different study populations. In conclusion, assessing the narrow‐sense validity of PRS is necessary prior to its clinical implementation for accurate individual risk assessment.
Age associations with tacrolimus and mycophenolic acid pharmacokinetics in stable Black and White kidney transplant recipients: Implications for health inequities
Authors: Tornatore Kathleen M. , Attwood Kristopher , Venuto Rocco C. , Murray Brian
Published: February 2023

Tacrolimus (TAC) and mycophenolic acid (MPA) provide maintenance immunosuppression and is dosed empirically in elderly kidney transplant recipients (KTRs) resulting in health inequities. Limited immunosuppressive pharmacokinetics are available comparing adult ages. This secondary analysis compared TAC and MPA pharmacokinetics and adverse effects (AEs) among young, middle‐aged, and elderly Black and White KTRs. The 12‐h TAC and MPA pharmacokinetics with AE evaluation were conducted in 67 stable KTRs greater than or equal to 6 months post‐transplant. TAC regimens were adjusted to target troughs. MPA regimens were adjusted using clinical response. Participants were: young: less than or equal to 40 years; middle age: greater than 40 to 60 years, and elderly greater than 60 years. Noncompartmental pharmacokinetic analysis determined area under the concentration‐time curve 0–12 h (AUC0‐12h), clearance (CL), and CL/body mass index (BMI) with 0‐h troughs. MPA enterohepatic recirculation (EHR), MPA‐AUC6‐12h/MPA‐AUC0‐12h, and MPA glucuronide (MPAG)‐AUC0‐12h/MPA‐AUC0‐12h were determined. Univariate analysis of variance (ANOVA) was conducted using SAS version 9.4. No group differences were noted for estimated glomerular filtration rate, MPA, and TAC doses. EHR was reduced in elderly with decreased MPA‐AUC6‐12h/MPA‐AUC0‐12h (p = 0.049) and increased MPAG‐AUC0‐12h/MPA‐AUC0‐12h (p = 0.036). MPA troughs (p = 0.045) were reduced in the elderly. TAC CL/BMI (p = 0.043) was reduced in the elderly. For therapeutic MPA AUC0‐12h: 30–60 mg·h/L, 34.3% KTRs achieved this target with 55.2% greater than the therapeutic range. 77.6% KTR were in the TAC AUC0‐12h target: 100–190 ng·h/mL and 19.4% were below this range with no age relationship. In 44% young, 26% middle‐age and 7.8% elderly subjects achieved target AUC0‐12h for both medications (p = 0.036). Neurologic AEs were manifested in the elderly (p = 0.014). Immunosuppressive pharmacokinetics demonstrated age‐related differences with reduced TAC CL/BMI and MPA EHR and increased neurologic AE in the elderly. This immunosuppressive regimen may require age‐adjusted individualization to optimize allograft function.
Electrophysiological signature of the interplay between habits and inhibition in response to smoking‐related cues in individuals with a smoking habit: An event‐related potential study
Authors: Dampuré Julien , Agudelo‐Orjuela Paola , van der Meij Maartje , Belin David , Barber Horacio A.
Published: February 2023

The rigid, stimulus‐bound nature of drug seeking that characterizes substance use disorder (SUD) has been related to a dysregulation of motivational and early attentional reflexive and inhibitory reflective systems. However, the mechanisms by which these systems are engaged by drug‐paired conditioned stimuli (CSs) when they promote the enactment of seeking habits in individuals with a SUD have not been elucidated. The present study aimed behaviourally and electrophysiologically to characterize the nature of the interaction between the reflexive and reflective systems recruited by CSs in individuals with a smoking habit. We measured the behavioural performance and associated event‐related potentials (ERPs) of 20 individuals with a smoking habit and 20 controls, who never smoked regularly, in a modified Go/NoGo task during which smoking‐related CSs, appetitive and neutral pictures, presented either in first or third‐person visual perspective were displayed 250 ms before the Go/NoGo cue. We show that smoking‐related cues selectively influence early incentive motivation‐related attention bias (N2 after picture onset), motor readiness and behavioural inhibition (Go‐P3, NoGo‐P3 and Pc) of individuals with a smoking habit only when presented from a first‐person visual perspective. These data together identify the neural signature of the aberrant engagement of the reflexive and reflective systems during the recruitment of an incentive habit by CSs presented as if they had been response‐produced, that is, as conditioned reinforcers.
Trait‐dependent diversification in angiosperms: Patterns, models and data
Authors: Helmstetter Andrew J. , Zenil‐Ferguson Rosana , Sauquet Hervé , Otto Sarah P. , Méndez Marcos , Vallejo‐Marin Mario , Schönenberger Jürg , Burgarella Concetta , Anderson Bruce , de Boer Hugo , Glémin Sylvain , Käfer Jos
Published: February 2023

Variation in species richness across the tree of life, accompanied by the incredible variety of ecological and morphological characteristics found in nature, has inspired many studies to link traits with species diversification. Angiosperms are a highly diverse group that has fundamentally shaped life on earth since the Cretaceous, and illustrate how species diversification affects ecosystem functioning. Numerous traits and processes have been linked to differences in species richness within this group, but we know little about their relative importance and how they interact. Here, we synthesised data from 152 studies that used state‐dependent speciation and extinction (SSE) models on angiosperm clades. Intrinsic traits related to reproduction and morphology were often linked to diversification but a set of universal drivers did not emerge as traits did not have consistent effects across clades. Importantly, SSE model results were correlated to data set properties – trees that were larger, older or less well‐sampled tended to yield trait‐dependent outcomes. We compared these properties to recommendations for SSE model use and provide a set of best practices to follow when designing studies and reporting results. Finally, we argue that SSE model inferences should be considered in a larger context incorporating species' ecology, demography and genetics.
RETRACTED: The evaluation of enterprise supply chain intelligent manufacturing system for agricultural interconnection data based on machine learning
Authors: Yu Caili , Li Liang , Li Junlong , Qin Peng , Zhang Bei
Published: February 2023

The present work aims to promote the modernization of the real economy and facilitate the manufacturing industry to construct an intelligent manufacturing system. Analysis and evaluation are performed on the intelligent manufacturing system (IMS) of enterprises under the Internet of Things (IoT). First, the connotation and characteristics of machine learning (ML) in the era of IoT are explained, followed by the introduction to neural networks. Second, the optimization process of the neural network is described. Since it has no memory, the traditional deep neural network (DNN) needs to be improved. Then, the Generative Adversarial Network (GAN) is utilized to expand the sample data. Moreover, the confusion matrix is used in the indicator evaluation. The backpropagation neural network (BPNN) is optimized by the genetic algorithm (GA) to improve the network configuration and model performance. In addition, the connotation and development status of IMS are analysed, and the feasibility of applying deep learning to the evaluation of IMS is discussed. Finally, the evaluation model of IMS is designed and built via a neural network, which is ultimately verified in the simulation experiment. The experimental results indicate that the BPNN‐GA algorithm has advantages in predicting fitting accuracy, taking up less memory, and shortening training time; it can achieve generalization and accuracy in the forefront of optimal Pareto value, and the fitting accuracy attains 95.3%. The horizontal evaluation of IMS proves the effectiveness and feasibility of the evaluation model. This shows that the BPNN‐GA algorithm has an excellent evaluation effect on IMS. And the IMS evaluation model is applied to assess the IMS of sample enterprises. The evaluation results demonstrate that there are problems in the current manufacturing industry. For example, the transactions are challenging to be completed smoothly, information technology is updated slowly, and IMS is dependent on collecting resources.
The tension–tension fatigue behavior of carbon fiber/epoxy woven composites with stable structural reinforcements
Authors: Ma Zhenyu , Ma Wensuo , Man Ruidong , Jia Chenhui , Ma Zhenhao , Xu Yonghao
Published: February 2023

Carbon fiber/epoxy woven composites with stable structural reinforcements exhibit a better static mechanical property than composites with unstable reinforcements. The stable structural reinforcements show a limited deformation during the curing process. To investigate the influence of reinforcements on the tension–tension fatigue properties of composites, three typical composite samples were manufactured and experiment research was developed. The results show that the composites with stable structural reinforcements prove excellent fatigue behavior, and the initial elastic modulus can be enhanced. The curvature of load‐bearing yarns affected the loading capacity, and the low curvature improve the structural integrity. The unstable structural reinforcements lead to the “fatigue strengthening” after a limited number of cycles, owing to the straightening of load‐bearing yarns. Reducing the curvature of yarns can effectively decrease the occurrence of initial cracks by altering the structural characteristics of reinforcements, which strengthens the bonding to improve fatigue resistance.
Women's informal entrepreneurship through the lens of institutional voids and institutional logics
Authors: Ejaz Lalarukh , Grinevich Vadim , Karatas‐Ozkan Mine
Published: February 2023

In this conceptual paper, we respond to the calls for broader theoretical approaches that can coherently demonstrate a high degree of conceptual sensitivity to multiple combinations of institutional factors influencing women's informal entrepreneurship (WIE) and related agency. We do so by integrating constructs of gender and gender inequality with those of institutional logics and institutional voids. We find that a refined understanding of institutional voids is required to pave the way for a meaningful theoretical integration and empirical application of the related conceptualizations. We offer such a revised definition by placing formal and informal logics (rather than institutions) at the heart of it. In our theorizing, we propose that gender interplaying with formal and informal institutional logics create varying degrees of obscure and unique institutional voids that shape WIE prevalence. The proposed harmonized theoretical lens provides researchers with flexible yet consistent guidance for conducting context‐specific empirical work that can coherently advance understanding of underlying logics shaping WIE and related agency.
Mistakes in the diagnosis and treatment of Helicobacter pylori infection in daily clinical practice
Authors: Ariño‐Pérez Inés , Martínez‐Domínguez Samuel J. , Alfaro Almajano Enrique , Carrera‐Lasfuentes Patricia , Lanas Ángel
Published: February 2023

Background

An adequate diagnostic and therapeutic approach to Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection is the cornerstone to avoid overdiagnosis, overuse of health resources, and increase in antibiotic resistances. The aim of the study was to evaluate the most common errors in clinical practice and the associated risk factors.

Materials and Methods

This is a retrospective observational study including patients with H. pylori infection and no previous treatment belonging to two defined areas of the National Health System in Spain; some of them were enrolled in the European Registry on H. pylori management (Hp‐EuReg). Patients were attended by gastroenterologists between 2010 and 2019. According to current guidelines, we evaluated indications for H. pylori investigation, appropriateness of diagnostic test used in dyspeptic patients and discontinuation of surveillance after treatment.

Results

A total of 1730 patients were included, receiving 2260 eradication regimens. H. pylori infection was investigated in 1.7% cases in absence of a formal indication. Oral endoscopy was incorrectly used in 56% of patients with dyspepsia under 55 years without alarm signs, and urea breath test (UBT) was incorrectly used in 22.4% of patients with dyspepsia ≥55 years or red flags. Levofloxacin containing regimens were used as first‐line therapy in 7.5% of non‐allergic to penicillin patients. After first‐line failure, clarithromycin was repeated in 2.6% of the patients who received second‐line therapy. Confirmatory test of H. pylori status was absent in 2.5% cases. Men, patients under 55 years, and patients diagnosed by UBT had a higher risk of not undergoing a confirmatory test.

Conclusions

Investigation of H. pylori infection by gastroenterologists is rare in absence of a formal indication; however, endoscopy is commonly used for dyspeptic patients <55 years without red flags and non‐invasive tests are still used for dyspeptic patients ≥55 years or presenting alarm signs. Men, patients under 55 years, and patients diagnosed by UBT have an increased risk of being lost to follow‐up after eradication treatment.
UreBimmunodominant epitope‐specificCD8+T‐cell responses were beneficial in reducing gastric symptoms inHelicobacter pylori‐infected individuals
Authors: He Taojun , Zhang Fang , Zhang Jin , Wei Shanshan , Ning Jie , Yuan Hanmei , Li Bin
Published: February 2023

Background and aims

AlthoughHelicobacter pyloriis recognized as an extracellular infection bacterium, it can lead to an increase in the number of CD8+T cells after infection. At present, the characteristics ofH. pyloriantigen‐specific CD8+T cells and the epitope response have not been elucidated. This study was focused on putative protective antigen UreB to detect specific CD8+T‐cell responses in vitro and screen for predominant response epitopes.

Methods

The PBMCs collected fromH. pylori‐infected individuals were stimulated by UreB peptide pools in vitro to identify the immunodominant CD8+T‐cell epitopes. Furthermore, their HLA restriction characteristics were detected accordingly by NGS. Finally, the relationship between immunodominant responses and appearance of gastric symptoms afterH. pyloriinfection was conducted.

Results

UreB‐specific CD8+T‐cell responses were detected inH. pylori‐infected individuals. Three of UreB dominant epitopes (A‐2 (UreB443–451: GVKPNMIIK), B‐4 (UreB420–428: SEYVGSVEV), and C‐1 (UreB5–13: SRKEYVSMY)) were firstly identified and mainly presented by HLA‐A*1101, HLA‐B*4001 and HLA‐C*0702 alleles, respectively. C‐1 responses were mostly occurred inH. pylori‐infected subjects without gastric symptoms and may alleviate the degree of gastric inflammation.

Conclusions

The UreB dominant epitope‐specific CD8+T‐cell response was closely related to the gastric symptoms afterH. pyloriinfection, and the C‐1 (UreB5‐13) dominant peptides may be protective epitopes.
Evaluation of the effects of a proton pump inhibitor on Helicobacter pylori stool antigen testing
Authors: Kajihara Yusaku , Shimoyama Tadashi , Mizuki Ichiro
Published: February 2023

Background

Some patients find it difficult to discontinue proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). Unlike the 13C‐urea breath test (UBT), the stool antigen test (SAT), particularly when domestically produced kits are used, may be less likely to yield false‐negative results.

Methods

This prospective study included a convenience series of 35 healthy Japanese subjects. Based on a statistical calculation, acceptable numbers of subjects were considered at least 21 and 11 with and without Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection, respectively. The H. pylori infection was determined using the UBT or rapid urease test. SATs were performed with three novel domestically produced kits (the rapid immunochromatography tests Quick Navi™‐H. pylori [Navi™] and Quick Chaser® H. pylori [Chaser®], and the bioluminescent enzyme immunoassay test BLEIA® ‘EIKEN’ H. pylori Antigen [BLEIA®]) before and after oral PPI administration (30 mg lansoprazole once daily for 14 days). For each kit, the sensitivities and specificities were calculated and compared before and after PPI administration. Furthermore, the cutoff index (COI) values of BLEIA® before and after PPI administration were compared in H. pylori‐infected subjects.

Results

H. pylori infection was detected in 68.6% (24/35) of the included subjects. The sensitivities and specificities before versus after PPI administration were as follows: 79.2% (19/24) and 100.0% (11/11) versus 75.0% (18/24) and 100.0% (11/11) for Navi™, respectively (p = 1); 87.5% (21/24) and 100.0% (11/11) versus 75.0% (18/24) and 100.0% (11/11) for Chaser®, respectively (p = .371); 100.0% (24/24) and 100.0% (11/11) versus 95.8% (23/24) and 100.0% (11/11) for BLEIA®, respectively (p = 1). The median COI values of BLEIA® before and after PPI administration were 1389.0 and 3207.25, respectively (p = .0839).

Conclusions

In stool specimens, H. pylori antigenicity is maintained even during PPI use. SAT using a bioluminescent enzyme immunoassay is particularly recommended because of its extremely high sensitivity.
A “new” option in Helicobacter pylori eradication: High‐dose amoxicillin dual therapy outperforms bismuth quadruple therapy in a high dual resistance setting
Authors: Macedo Silva Vítor , Lima Capela Tiago , Freitas Marta , Boal Carvalho Pedro , Magalhães Joana , Cotter José
Published: February 2023

Background

Currently, bismuth quadruple therapy (BQT) is indicated as a first‐line treatment for Helicobacter pylori eradication in areas with high dual metronidazole and clarithromycin resistance, with its use being limited by its low tolerability and significant cost. A novel regimen with high‐dose amoxicillin dual therapy (HDADT) has emerged as an alternative. The aim of this study was to compare the results of these two treatments on HP eradication.

Materials and Methods

Prospective randomized study including 100 consecutive patients undergoing H. pylori eradication. Each patient was randomized (in a 1:1 ratio) to one group of treatment: BQT (bismuth 140 mg + metronidazole 125 mg + tetracycline 125 mg, four times a day, for 10 days) or HDADT (amoxicillin 1000 mg alternating with amoxicillin 500 mg, four times a day, for 14 days), both associated with esomeprazole 40 mg twice a day. The primary aim was to compare treatments' efficacies. Secondary aims were to assess symptoms persistence and tolerability.

Results

A total of 100 patients were included, 54% women, with a mean age of 55 ± 14 years. From these, five were lost to follow‐up. Effective eradication proven by negative stool antigen test was significantly higher in patients randomized to HDADT when compared to BQT for both intention‐to‐treat (ITT) (96.2% vs. 81.4%; p = .022) and per‐protocol (PP) (95.9% vs. 81%; p = .025) analysis. These differences were even more pronounced when only considering second line treatment (100% vs. 62.5%; p = .028). Side effects did not differ significantly between BQT and HDADT groups for both ITT (7.0% vs. 2.0%; p = .254) and PP (4.8% vs. 0%; p = .210) analysis.

Conclusions

When compared to BQT, treatment with HDADT presented higher and near 100% efficacy in eradicating H. pylori, without differences in reported side effects or compliance. This treatment represents an important alternative for populations with increasing incidences of resistance to the currently recommended antibiotic regimens.
Solution combustion synthesis of FeCr2O4:Zn,Al pigment powders
Authors: Paborji Fatemeh , Shafiee Afarani Mahdi , Arabi Amir Masoud , Ghahari Mehdi
Published: February 2023

FeCr2O4:Zn,Al pigment powders were prepared via a solution combustion synthesis method. Effects of Zn and Al dopants and less/extra Fe content on the structure, molecular bonds, and optical properties of powders were studied. Results showed that addition of dopants as well as extra/less content of Fe led to weaker combustion and consequently lower X‐ray diffraction peak intensities, lattice parameters, and differential thermal analysis peak intensities. Moreover, Fourier transform infrared analysis illustrated that the band position of Cr–O and Fe–O bonds were shifted to higher frequencies with moving away from stoichiometry. In addition, scanning electron micrographs showed that in all samples, porous spongy microstructures were formed with highly flake‐like agglomerated particles. Furthermore, there was a significant difference between the powder samples and the tiles colored with in glaze powders due to the partial dissolution of pigments in contact with the molten glaze of tiles. In comparison to the tile colored with the stoichiometric FeCr2O4 pigments without dopants, the color difference (ΔE) in the tiles colored by the iron chromite pigments doped with Zn and Al dopants and less/extra Fe content reached the high values as large as ΔE = 36.19. The solar reflectance values (Rs) in near‐infrared region were above 50% in all samples. Near 80% Rs in the tile colored by the iron chromite pigment doped with 3 mol% Zn and the yellowish brown appearance (L* = 43.44, a* = 6.77, b* = 18.38, c* = 19.59, h = 69.79) showed that the sample was a good candidate for cool building materials such as roof tiles.
Rapid detection of sea bass quality level with machine learning and electronic nose
Authors: Yavuzer Emre
Published: February 2023

In the present study, the odour changes of sea bass was measured and recorded with Arduino‐based six gas (MQ) sensors during 7 days of storage. In addition, the changes in biogenic amines (BAs) and total viable count (TVC) occurring in fish meat during storage were determined daily and compared with electronic nose data. For image processing, 500 fish data were taught to Teachable Machine (TM) daily, a web‐based machine learning platform. In the study, it was determined that if the level of putrescine (PUT) exceeds 1 mg kg−1 and spermidine (SPMD) exceeds the level of 2 mg kg−1, the MQ4, MQ5, MQ8 and MQ9 sensors exceed the value of 500. In the study, it was determined that combined machine learning and electronic nose could be used as a rapid quality determination tool in a perishable food such as fish.
Role of CD14 in human disease
Authors: Sharygin Daniel , Koniaris Leonidas G. , Wells Clark , Zimmers Teresa A. , Hamidi Tewfik
Published: February 2023

The cell surface antigen CD14 is primarily understood to act as a co‐receptor for toll‐like receptors (TLRs) to activate innate immunity responses to pathogens and tissue injury in macrophages and monocytes. However, roles for CD14 are increasingly being uncovered in disease responses in epithelial and endothelial cells. Consistent with these broader functions, CD14 expression is altered in a variety of non‐immune cell types in response to a several of disease states. Moreover, soluble CD14 activated by factors from both pathogens and tissue damage may initiate signalling in a variety of non‐immune cells. This review examined the current understanding CD14 in innate immunity as well as its potential functions in nonimmune cells and associated human diseases.
Effectiveness of a smartphone application on dental anxiety in adolescents: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Mayer Trícia Murielly Andrade de Souza , Maior Giovanna Burgos Souto , da Costa Nataly Pereira , do Nascimento Michele Gomes , Colares Viviane
Published: February 2023

Background

Dental anxiety is a common issue among adolescents. Despite the use of smartphones being an important part of their daily lives, only a few digital‐based interventions for dental anxiety have been tested in randomized controlled trials (RCT).

Aim

The aim of this study was to evaluate a new smartphone application (App) named FALE, which was designed to demonstrate interest from the dentist to adolescent and to reduce dental anxiety.

Design

This is a RCT in which 184 adolescents aged 10–19 years were randomly allocated into the intervention group (IG) or the control group (CG). The intervention was applied in the waiting room before the consultation at a dental clinic. The IG answered the FALE, which contained 14 questions—of which the first and last questions addressed anxiety, whereas the CG answered the question about anxiety twice with an interval between them.

Results

There was a significant difference in the distribution of anxiety rating frequencies before and after the intervention period in both groups. For the IG, there was a reduction in anxiety after the intervention of 16.29%, and, in the CG, a reduction of 2.2% (p < .001).

Conclusion

The FALE App effectively reduced dental anxiety before the appointment.
On the confluence of ultrafast high‐temperature sintering and flash sintering phenomena
Authors: Raj Rishi , Wolf Dietrich E. , Yamada Carolina N. , Jha Shikhar K. , Lebrun Jean‐Marie
Published: February 2023

Ultrafast high‐temperature sintering (UHS) and flash sintering are novel methods for rapid sintering of ceramics, often completed in just a few seconds. Here, we show that both also share two additional features: an abrupt rise in electrical conductivity, which is electronic, and electroluminescence. More fundamentally, both are related to phonon physics where MD calculations have shown that proliferation of phonons at the edge of the Brillouin zone can induce Frenkel pairs without the application of electrical fields. Here, we show that, indeed, heating without the application of electric field, can also induce flash: Rapid heating processes of thin films of an oxide‐salt deposited on silk fibers, with a propane torch, are shown to induce electronic conductivity, electroluminescence, and rapid sintering of the oxide. The discussion in this article harkens back to two inventions, more than a century ago, which can now be related to flash and UHS: (i) the Nernst glow lamp circa 1900, made from zirconia, and (ii) the Welsbach mantle, constituted from ceria doped thorium oxide, in the late nineteenth century. Thus, the confluence between high heating rate and electric field induced flash phenomena links the past to the new. The emerging question is how injection of phonons that has been shown to create Frenkels can further induce high electronic conductivity and electroluminescence in oxides. Both electronic conductivity and luminescence are likely related to the generation of electron–hole pairs.
Prediction of ring crack initiation in ceramics and glasses using a stress–energy fracture criterion
Authors: Papšík Roman , Ševeček Oldřich , Martin Éric , Bermejo Raúl
Published: February 2023

Crack initiation in brittle materials upon spherical indentation is associated with the tensile radial stresses during loading. However, location of crack onset often differs (offset) from the site of maximal stress. In addition, experiments reveal a strong dependency of crack initiation forces on geometrical parameters as well as the surface condition of the sample. In this work, a coupled stress–energy fracture criterion is introduced to describe the initiation of ring cracks in brittle materials, which takes into account the geometry of the contact and the inherent strength and fracture toughness of the material. Several experiments reported in literature are evaluated and compared. The criterion can explain the location offset of the ring crack upon loading, as observed in various ceramics and glasses. It also predicts the ring crack initiation force upon contact loading, provided that surface compressive stresses, introduced during grinding or polishing processes, are taken into account. Furthermore, the stress–energy criterion may be employed to estimate the surface residual stress of ceramic parts, based on simple contact damage experiments.
B4C–(Ti0.9Cr0.1)B2 composites with excellent specific hardness and enhanced toughness
Authors: Qiu Shuaihang , Zou Ji , Liu Jingjing , Zhou Yanchun , Ji Wei , Zhang Fan , Wang Weimin , Fu Zhengyi
Published: February 2023

Dense and light B4C–(Ti0.9Cr0.1)B2 composites with excellent mechanical properties were designed and reactively densified from boron, TiC, and Cr3C2 powder mixtures by spark plasma sintering in this work. Due to solid solution effects, the as‐obtained B4C–(Ti0.9Cr0.1)B2 composite exhibited obviously enhanced hardness (43.2 ± 3.0 GPa at 9.8 N) and higher specific hardness (12.82 GPa cm3 g−1) together with improved flexural strength (663 ± 39 MPa) and fracture toughness (KIC, 5.40 ± 0.25 MPa m1/2), compared to the counterparts such as B4C–TiB2 composite and B4C. Toughening contributions in the as‐sintered ceramics were quantitatively analyzed, and higher KIC in B4C–(Ti0.9Cr0.1)B2 was mainly due to their larger initial fracture toughness and compressive stress toughening. The combination of these properties makes B4C–(Ti0.9Cr0.1)B2 composites exhibit great potentials in the application as lightweight structural materials. This work provided an inspiration to achieve lightweight materials with high performance through doping minor‐amount atoms into the matrix.
Additive manufacturing of high mechanical strength continuous Cf/SiC composites using a 3D extrusion technique and polycarbosilane‐coated carbon fibers
Authors: Chen Ruoyu , Bratten Adam , Rittenhouse Joshua , Leu Ming , Wen Haiming
Published: February 2023

A novel additive manufacturing approach is herein reported for manufacturing high mechanical strength continuous carbon fiber‐reinforced silicon carbide (Cf/SiC) composite materials. Continuous carbon fibers were coated with polycarbosilane (PCS) using a colloidal evaporative deposition process and then coextruded with high solid content SiC ink. The zeta potential of the SiC ink was adjusted to optimize the printing ability of the suspension. During sintering, small SiC grains and whiskers were generated in the gaps in and around the PCS‐coated carbon fibers, which led to the improved flexural strength and density of the composites. Meanwhile, the PCS coating on the surface of the carbon fibers prevented the carbon fibers from reacting with SiO gas generated by reactions between the SiC matrix and SiO2 and sintering additives (Al2O3 and Y2O3), effectively preserving the structural integrity of the carbon fibers. Compared to the SiC specimens containing uncoated carbon fibers, the density of the specimens fabricated with coated carbon fibers was increased from 2.51 to 2.85 g/cm3, and the strength was increased from 190 to 232 MPa.
Cracking mechanism in laser directed energy deposition of melt growth alumina/aluminum titanate ceramics
Authors: Huang Yunfei , Wu Dongjiang , Yu Xuexin , Ma Guangyi , Han Jun , Wang Hong , Niu Fangyong
Published: February 2023

Thanks to its advantages of high efficiency and near‐net shaping, laser directed energy deposition (LDED) is rapidly becoming a remarkable preparation technology for high‐purity ceramics. However, the cracking problem in shaping process is always a great challenge for LDED to achieve industrial application. For this purpose, alumina/aluminum titanate melt‐growth ceramics (A/AT MGCs) were prepared using LDED system, and the corresponding finite element thermal analysis model was developed. The solidification behavior and cracking mechanism of A/AT MGCs were investigated based on the thermal analysis model, and the influence of process parameters on the cracking characteristics was revealed with experiments. Results show that the crack morphology and distribution are controlled by microstructure and temperature gradient together. The scanning speed of 100–150 mm/min, with better microstructure and lower temperature gradient, is a preferred process window. This study provides theoretical guidance and technical support for the cracking suppression during LDED shaping of ceramics.
Structural and optical properties of Mg1−xMnxP2O6(x = 0–1.0) magnesium metaphosphate
Authors: Wei Donglei , Yang Xifeng , Liu Yushen , Seo Hyo Jin
Published: February 2023

Structural and optical properties of Mg1−xMnxP2O6(x = 0–1.0) magnesium metaphosphate were investigated in detail. The complete solid solution of MgP2O6–MnP2O6is confirmed as monoclinic space groupC2/c. The dynamic luminescence was studied by changing the Mn2+content (0–100 mol%) and temperature (10–300 K). There is a good chemical homogeneity in Mg1−xMnxP2O6(x = 0–1.0), which can be supported by the linearly varying cell size and the gradually changing vibration spectrum. However, the optical properties of the solid solution do not show a continuous change trend, that is, an obvious inflection point appeared whenx = 0.5. Mg1−xMnxP2O6(x = 0.1–0.5) shows a dominant O2− → Mn2+charge transfer (CT) absorption in the near UV region and feeble d–d transitions of Mn2+in visible wavelength region. However, Mg1−xMnxP2O6(x = 0.6–1.0) presents a strong d–d absorption transition and nearly disappeared CT band. The changing trend of optical absorption is also maintained in the excitation and emission of the solid solutions. In Mg1−xMnxP2O6(x = 0.1–0.5), (Mn, Mg)O6octahedron has slight distortion, and the effective luminescence only occurs when CT band excitation is used. In contrast, in Mg1−xMnxP2O6(x = 0.6–1.0), (Mn, Mg)O6octahedron is highly distorted, and only excitation at d–d transition produces effective luminescence. This research highlights the critical role of MnO6octahedral distortions in the luminescence properties of Mn2+activators. The research provides a reference for developing optical materials.
Nano‐biotechnology in tumour and cancerous disease: A perspective review
Authors: Soni Ambikesh , Bhandari Manohar Prasad , Tripathi Gagan Kant , Bundela Priyavand , Khiriya Pradeep Kumar , Khare Purnima Swarup , Kashyap Manoj Kumar , Dey Abhijit , Vellingiri Balachandar , Sundaramurthy Suresh , Suresh Arisutha , Pérez de la Lastra José M.
Published: February 2023

In recent years, drug manufacturers and researchers have begun to consider the nanobiotechnology approach to improve the drug delivery system for tumour and cancer diseases. In this article, we review current strategies to improve tumour and cancer drug delivery, which mainly focuses on sustaining biocompatibility, biodistribution, and active targeting. The conventional therapy using cornerstone drugs such as fludarabine, cisplatin etoposide, and paclitaxel has its own challenges especially not being able to discriminate between tumour versus normal cells which eventually led to toxicity and side effects in the patients. In contrast to the conventional approach, nanoparticle‐based drug delivery provides target‐specific delivery and controlled release of the drug, which provides a better therapeutic window for treatment options by focusing on the eradication of diseased cells via active targeting and sparing normal cells via passive targeting. Additionally, treatment of tumours associated with the brain is hampered by the impermeability of the blood–brain barriers to the drugs, which eventually led to poor survival in the patients. Nanoparticle‐based therapy offers superior delivery of drugs to the target by breaching the blood–brain barriers. Herein, we provide an overview of the properties of nanoparticles that are crucial for nanotechnology applications. We address the potential future applications of nanobiotechnology targeting specific or desired areas. In particular, the use of nanomaterials, biostructures, and drug delivery methods for the targeted treatment of tumours and cancer are explored.
Impact of COVID‐19 pandemic on acute dermatology referrals in a secondary and tertiary care Central London hospital. A retrospective comparison review of pre‐COVID‐19 era and COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Panagou Evangelia , Panou Evdoxia , Crawley Jennifer , Veraitch Ophelia , Edmonds Emma V. , Bunker Chris B. , Martyn‐Simmons Claire L.
Published: February 2023

Background

Although Dermatology is largely considered an outpatient specialty, there is an increasing need for Dermatology input in the acute and inpatient setting. During the COVID‐19 pandemic, Dermatology services had to be reorganized to facilitate staff redeployment and minimize the risk of exposure to COVID‐19 for patients and staff. This led to an unprecedented increase in teleconsultations aided by clinical images.

Objectives

The main aim of our retrospective study was to analyse the acute Dermatology referrals received in the pre‐COVID‐19 era and during COVID‐19 pandemic.

Methods

We retrospectively analysed acute Dermatology referrals using the acute referral log.

Results

We retrospectively analysed 500 and 110 acute Dermatology referrals received in the pre‐COVID‐19 period and during COVID‐19 pandemic, respectively. In the pre‐COVID‐19 era, consultations were most commonly requested by Oncology/Haemato‐Oncology, Emergency Departments and General Practice, while during the COVID‐19 pandemic General Practice was the most common source of referrals. A wide variety of dermatological conditions were encountered with the most common been eczematous dermatoses.

Conclusions

Although Dermatology is largely an outpatient‐based specialty, this study shows the demand for urgent Dermatology input the care of sick patients with severe skin diseases and in the management of skin problems in patients admitted or receiving treatment for other diseases. Re‐organization of Dermatology services during the COVID‐19 pandemic resulted in a marked increase in teleconsultations (28% versus 84.5%) and highlighted the importance of complete skin‐directed physical examination by the referring clinician as well as procurement of good quality clinical images.
Expression pattern analysis ofanti‐Mullerianhormone in testis development of pearlscale angelfish (Centropyge vrolikii)
Authors: Xu Yan , Zhong Zhao‐wei , Feng Yan , Zhang Ze‐yu , Ao Lu‐lu , Liu Hongwei , Wang Yi‐lei , Jiang Yong‐hua
Published: February 2023

In vertebrates, anti‐Mullerian hormone (Amh) secreted by Sertoli cells (SC) performs a pivotal function in male sex differentiation. Compared with that of higher vertebrates, the expression pattern ofAmhis more diversified in fish. In this study, the full‐length complementary DNA (cDNA) ofAmhinCentropyge vrolikii(Cv‐Amh) was cloned and analysed, which was 2,470 bp, including a 238 bp 5'UTR, a 1,602 bp ORF and a 633 bp 3'UTR; the similarity ofAmhbetweenCv‐Amh and other fish is relatively high. The quantitative real‐time PCR (qRT‐PCR) results of healthy tissues and gonads at sex reversal stages inC. vrolikiishowed that the expression level ofAmhin the testis was significantly higher than that in other tissues (P < 0.05).Amhwas weakly expressed in the vitellogenic stage ovary and perinucleolus stage ovary, but its expression significantly increased in the gonads at the hermaphroditic stage, and finally reached the highest in the pure testis after sexual reversal. The results ofin situhybridization indicated that the positive signal ofAmhwas strongly concentrated in SCs of testis. AfterAmhknockdown in the gonads, the effect on sex‐related genes was tested using qRT‐PCR. Among these, the expression ofDmrt1,Cyp11a,Hsd11b2,Sox8andSox9significantly decreased, whereas that ofCyp19a,Sox4,Foxl2andSox3increased. These results suggested thatAmhcould be the pivotal gene in reproductive regulation inC. vrolikii, and the data will contribute to sex‐related research ofC. vrolikiiin the future.