bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Differential Item Functioning on the Cochin Hand Function Scale Among People With Systemic Sclerosis by Language, Sex, and Disease Subtype: A Scleroderma Patient‐Centered Intervention Network (SPIN) Cohort Study
Authors: Xu Mingyao , Harel Daphna , Carrier Marie‐Eve , Kwakkenbos Linda , Bartlett Susan J. , Gottesman Karen , Guillot Geneviève , Hummers Laura , Malcarne Vanessa L. , Richard Michelle , Thombs Brett D. ,   the SPIN Investigators
Published: July 2023

Objective

To evaluate the degree that the Cochin Hand Function Scale (CHFS) generates scores that are comparable across language, sex, and disease subtype.

Methods

We included participants enrolled in the Scleroderma Patient‐centered Intervention Network (SPIN) Cohort who completed the CHFS at their baseline assessment between April 2014 and September 2020. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was used to test unidimensionality, and multiple indicator multiple cause (MIMIC) models were used for differential item functioning (DIF) analysis based on language, sex, and disease subtype. Both intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and Pearson's correlation were calculated using factor scores obtained from unadjusted and DIF‐adjusted MIMIC models to evaluate agreement and correlation between scores.

Results

A total of 2,155 participants were included. CFA with covarying error terms supported a good fit of the model (χ2[127] = 1,754.671; P < 0.001; Tucker‐Lewis index = 0.985; comparative fit index = 0.987; root mean square error of approximation = 0.077). Nine items displayed statistically significant DIF for language of administration, 10 items for sex, and 10 items for disease subtype. However, the overall impact of DIF was negligible when comparing factor scores that did and did not account for DIF (ICC = 0.999; r = 0.999).

Conclusion

The CHFS has score comparability in systemic sclerosis regardless of participants’ language, sex, and disease subtype.
Tunable Chiral Plasmonic Activities Enabled via Stimuli Responsive Micro‐Origami
Authors: He Yisheng , Li Haoyu , Steiner Anja Maria , Fery Andreas , Zhang Yuan , Ye Chunhong
Published: July 2023

Chiral plasmonic nanomaterials with distinctive circularly polarized light‐dependent optical responses over a broad range of frequency have great potential for photonic and biomedical applications. However, it still remains challenging to fabricate 3D plasmonic chiral micro‐constructs with readily modulated chiroptical properties over the magnitude of ellipticity, mode frequency, and switchable handedness, especially in the vis–NIR range. In this study, polymeric micro‐origami‐based 3D plasmonic chiral structures are constructed through self‐rolling of gold  nanospheres (AuNSs)‐decorated polymeric micro‐sheets. Spherical AuNSs are assembled as highly ordered linear chains on 2D rectangular micro‐sheets by polydimethylsiloxane‐wrinkle assisted assembly. Upon rolling the micro‐sheets to micro‐tubules, the AuNS chains transform into 3D helices. The AuNS‐assembled helices induce collective plasmonic modes propagating in a helical manner, leading to a strong chiral response over the vis–NIR range. The circular dichroism (CD) is measured to be as high as hundreds of millidegree, and the position and sign of CD peaks are actively modulated by controlling the orientated angle of AuNS chains, enabled by tuning the collective plasmonic modes. This micro‐origami‐based strategy incorporates the incompatible 2D assembly technique with 3D chiral structures, opening up an intriguing way toward constructing chiral plasmonic structures and modulating chiroptical effects based on responsive polymeric materials.
Esterase‐Labile Quaternium Lipidoid Enabling Improved mRNA‐LNP Stability and Spleen‐Selective mRNA Transfection
Authors: Zhang Runnan , Shao Shiqun , Piao Ying , Xiang Jiajia , Wei Xuyong , Zhang Zhen , Zhou Zhuxian , Tang Jianbin , Qiu Nasha , Xu Xiao , Liu Yanpeng , Shen Youqing
Published: July 2023

Ionizable cationic lipids are recognized as an essential component of lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) for messenger RNA (mRNA) delivery but can be confounded by low lipoplex stability with mRNA during storage and in vivo delivery. Herein, the rational design and combinatorial synthesis of esterase‐triggered decationizable quaternium lipid‐like molecules (lipidoids) are reported to develop new LNPs with high delivery efficiency and improved storage stability. This top lipidoid carries positive charges at the physiological condition but promptly acquires negative charges in the presence of esterase, thus permitting stable mRNA encapsulation during storage and in vivo delivery while balancing efficient mRNA release in the cytosol. An optimal LNP formulation is then identified through orthogonal optimization, which enables efficacious mRNA transfection selectively in the spleen following intravenous administration. LNP‐mediated delivery of ovalbumin (OVA)‐encoding mRNA induces efficient antigen expression in antigen‐presenting cells and elicits robust antigen‐specific immune responses against OVA‐transduced tumors. The work demonstrates the potential of decationizable quaternium lipidoids for spleen‐selective RNA transfection and cancer immunotherapy.
Capillary Self‐Assembly Register Microspheres to Fabricate Anisotropic Conductive Film Used for Ultra‐Fine Pitch Stable Electrical Interfacing Interconnection
Authors: Pan Rui , Zhang Wei , Cheng Hua , Yang Jihua , Gong Yi , Hu Rui , Zhuo Yizhi , Ding Jianjun , Zhang Xian , Chen Lin , Tian Xingyou
Published: July 2023

The trend to integrate more electronic components in a limited space range motivates the development of advanced electronic packaging. Conventional electronic packaging is difficult to perform in stable interfacing interconnection pitch below 7 µm due to the possibility of short‐circuit problems. Herein, a kind of anisotropic conductive film (μ‐ACF) containing periodically arranged conductive microspheres for microscale pitch electrical interfacing interconnection is developed. The periodic arrangement can avert the contact of conductive microspheres, thus enabling stable interconnection with a pitch as small as 5 µm. By coating conductive microspheres with a layer of silicon insulation, the pitch can be further reduced to 3 µm, which can prevent the formation of conductive pathways between electrodes even if they come into contact with each other. Such high‐quality arrangement is achieved by lithography and capillary self‐assembly method, which is expected to be used in high‐throughput production. Thanks to the delicate design, the μ‐ACF can achieve a low contact resistance of 4.62 mΩ mm−2 and a spatial resolution of 3 µm without short‐circuit failure. The spatial resolution can be further improved by adjusting the size of conductive microspheres, which is conducive to the development of highly integrated devices.
Realizing an Optical Micro‐Cavity in a CuCo2O4‐W‐CuCo2O4 Thin Film Stack for Spectrally Selective Solar Absorbers
Authors: S. Silpa , G. Srinivas , Biswas Arup , Barshilia Harish C. , Kamble Vinayak B.
Published: July 2023

Tapping the potential of solar thermal energy requires spectrally selective solar absorber coatings, which lead to high photothermal efficiency. Micro‐cavities are known to dramatically enhance or suppress light absorption and emission in a directional manner and are used in nanophotonics, photodetectors, lasing, etc. Here, a dielectric‐metal‐dielectric multilayer stack with an optical micro‐cavity of a 12 nm tungsten layer formed between two dielectric layers of transition metal oxide CuCo2O4 (CCO) is designed. The CCO‐W‐CCO thin film multilayers deposited on stainless steel substrate by DC‐radio frequency magnetron sputtering achieve a 90% solar absorptance for the entire solar spectrum and a thermal emittance of 19% for the infrared spectrum. Optimization of thicknesses of individual layers is achieved by numerical simulations done in COMSOL Multiphysics, thereby reproducing the optical properties of each layer. The simulation results satisfactorily reproduce the experimental reflectance and demonstrate maximum power dissipation in the metallic layer in visible as well as NIR regions. Nevertheless, CCO material characterizations reveal that the enhanced absorption over the entire solar spectrum could be attributed to the underlying spinel crystal structure and the nanostructure film morphology.
Ammonia Decomposition over Water‐Durable Hexagonal BaTiO3−xNy‐Supported Ni Catalysts
Authors: Ogasawara Kiya , Miyazaki Masayoshi , Miyashita Kazuki , Abe Hitoshi , Niwa Yasuhiro , Sasase Masato , Kitano Masaaki , Hosono Hideo
Published: July 2023

Nickel is a promising candidate as an alternative to ruthenium for an ammonia decomposition catalyst. However, the performance of Ni‐based catalysts for ammonia decomposition is still not sufficient to achieve a good hydrogen production rate under low‐temperature because the weak nitrogen affinity of Ni reduces the frequency of the ammonia decomposition reaction. Here, it is reported that Ni supported on barium titanium oxynitride (Ni/h‐BaTiO3−xNy) with a hexagonal structure acts as a highly active and water‐durable catalyst for ammonia decomposition. The operation temperature is reduced by over 140 °C when N3− ions are substituted onto the O2− sites of the BaTiO3 lattice, and the Ni/h‐BaTiO3−xNy catalyst significantly outperforms conventional oxide‐supported Ni catalysts for ammonia decomposition. Furthermore, the activity of Ni/h‐BaTiO3−xNy remains unchanged after exposure to water. The 15NH3 decomposition reaction and Fourier transform‐infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR) measurements reveal that lattice nitrogen vacancy sites on h‐BaTiO3−xNy function as the active sites for ammonia decomposition. The ammonia decomposition activity of Ni/h‐BaTiO3−xNy is also higher than that of the Ni/h‐BaTiO3−xHy oxyhydride catalyst, making a contrast to the activity trend in ammonia synthesis.
Does education moderate gender disparities in later‐life memory function? A cross‐national comparison of harmonized cognitive assessment protocols in the United States and India
Authors: Westrick Ashly C. , Avila‐Rieger Justina , Gross Alden L. , Hohman Timothy , Vonk Jet M. J. , Zahodne Laura B. , Kobayashi Lindsay C.
Published: July 2023

INTRODUCTION

We compared gender disparities in later‐life memory, overall and by education, in India and the United States (US).

METHODS

Data (N = 7443) were from harmonized cognitive assessment protocols (HCAPs) in the Longitudinal Aging Study of India‐Diagnostic Assessment of Dementia (LASI‐DAD; N = 4096; 2017‐19) and US Health and Retirement Study HCAP (HRS‐HCAP; N = 3347; 2016‐17). We derived harmonized memory factors from each study using confirmatory factor analysis. We used multivariable‐adjusted linear regression to compare gender disparities in memory function between countries, overall and by education.

RESULTS

In the United States, older women had better memory than older men (0.28 SD‐unit difference; 95% CI: 0.22, 0.35). In India, older women had worse memory than older men (−0.15 SD‐unit difference; 95% CI: −0.20, −0.10), which attenuated with increasing education and literacy.

CONCLUSION

We observed gender disparities in memory in India that were not present in the United States, and which dissipated with education and literacy.
A Homo‐Mannich Reaction Strategy Enables Collective Access to Ibophyllidine, Aspidosperma, Kopsia, and Melodinus Alkaloids
Authors: Jiang Dan , Tang Peng , Xiong Hongbing , Lei Shuai , Zhang Yulian , Zhang Chongzhou , He Ling , Qiu Hanyue , Zhang Min
Published: July 2023

We report here a homo‐Mannich reaction of cyclopropanol with an iminium ion, generated by an asymmetric allylic dearomatization of indole, to construct a tricyclic hydrocarbazole core, which is shared by a variety of monoterpenoid indole alkaloids across families. Through this approach, an all‐carbon quaternary stereogenic center as well as an allyl and a ketone group were installed. Using this functionalized hydrocarbazole as the structural platform, D ring and E rings of different sizes (i.e., five‐, six‐, and seven‐membered) were successively or simultaneously assembled, leading to a collective asymmetric synthesis of seven alkaloids belonging to the ibophyllidine, Aspidosperma, Kopsia, and Melodinus alkaloid families.
Coordination Defect‐Induced Frustrated Lewis Pairs in Polyoxo‐metalate‐Based Metal–Organic Frameworks for Efficient Catalytic Hydrogenation
Authors: Liang Yan , Zhang Zhong , Su Xiaofang , Feng Xiao , Xing Songzhu , Liu Wei , Huang Rui , Liu Yiwei
Published: July 2023

Precise control of the structure and spatial distance of Lewis acid (LA) and Lewis base (LB) sites in a porous system to construct efficient solid frustrated Lewis pair (FLP) catalyst is vital for industrial application but remains challenging. Herein, we constructed FLP sites in a polyoxometalate (POM)‐based metal–organic framework (MOF) by introducing coordination‐defect metal nodes (LA) and surface‐basic POM with abundant oxygen (LB). The well‐defined and unique spatial conformation of the defective POM‐based MOF ensure that the distance between LA and LB is at ~4.3 Å, a suitable distance to activate H2. This FLP catalyst can heterolytically dissociate H2 into active Hδ−, thus exhibiting high activity in hydrogenation, which is 55 and 2.7 times as high as that of defect‐free POM‐based MOF and defective MOF without POM, respectively. This work provides a new avenue toward precise design multi‐site catalyst to achieve specific activation of target substrate for synergistic catalysis.
Balancing the Crystallinity and Film Formation of Metal–Organic Framework Membranes through In Situ Modulation for Efficient Gas Separation
Authors: Liu Yutao , Chen Hui , Li Tong , Ren Yongheng , Wang Hui , Song Zhengxuan , Li Jianhui , Zhao Qiang , Li Jinping , Li Libo
Published: July 2023

Polycrystalline metal–organic framework (MOF) layers hold great promise as molecular sieve membranes for efficient gas separation. Nevertheless, the high crystallinity tends to cause inter‐crystalline defects/cracks in the nearby crystals, which makes crystalline porous materials face a great challenge in the fabrication of defect‐free membranes. Herein, for the first time, we demonstrate the balance between crystallinity and film formation of MOF membrane through a facile in situ modulation strategy. Monocarboxylic acid was introduced as a modulator to regulate the crystallinity via competitive complexation and thus concomitantly control the film‐forming state during membrane growth. Through adjusting the ratio of modulator acid/linker acid, an appropriate balance between this structural “trade‐off” was achieved. The resulting MOF membrane with moderate crystallinity and coherent morphology exhibits molecular sieving for H2/CO2 separation with selectivity up to 82.5.
An efficient and sustainable Pd‐nanomagnetic heterogeneous catalyst for the reduction of nitroarene and environmental pollutant
Authors: Yadav Vikas G. , Chavan Vijaykumar L.
Published: July 2023

This study reports the synthesis and characterization of an environmentally friendly, cost‐effective, and sustainable Pd‐heterogeneous catalyst anchored on superparamagnetic silica‐coated iron oxide. The synthesized Pd‐SB/MNP nanomagnetic catalyst was extensively characterized using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy (ICP‐OES), X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), energy‐dispersive spectrometry (EDS), vibrating sample magnetometry (VSM), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE‐SEM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET), and high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR‐TEM). The Pd‐SB/MNP catalyst showed remarkable efficiency in catalyzing the reduction of nitroarene and Cr(VI) under mild reaction conditions using an eco‐friendly solvent. The catalyst exhibits facile recovery through external magnetization, enabling its efficient recycling and reutilization for at least 10 cycles while demonstrating minimal Pd loss, as confirmed by rigorous hot filtration testing and ICP‐OES analysis. These results comply with the industry's prescribed thresholds for permissible levels of residual metallic content. The results suggest that the synthesized Pd‐SB/MNP catalyst holds great potential for various industrial applications.
Chemical and biological conjugation strategies for the development of multivalent protein vaccine nanoparticles
Authors: Park Jaeyoung , Pho Thomas , Champion Julie A.
Published: July 2023

The development of subunit vaccine platforms has been of considerable interest due to their good safety profile and ability to be adapted to new antigens, compared to other vaccine typess. Nevertheless, subunit vaccines often lack sufficient immunogenicity to fully protect against infectious diseases. A wide variety of subunit vaccines have been developed to enhance antigen immunogenicity by increasing antigen multivalency, as well as stability and delivery properties, via presentation of antigens on protein nanoparticles. Increasing multivalency can be an effective approach to provide a potent humoral immune response by more strongly engaging and clustering B cell receptors (BCRs) to induce activation, as well as increased uptake by antigen presenting cells and their subsequent T cell activation. Proper orientation of antigen on protein nanoparticles is also considered a crucial factor for enhanced BCR engagement and subsequent immune responses. Therefore, various strategies have been reported to decorate highly repetitive surfaces of protein nanoparticle scaffolds with multiple copies of antigens, arrange antigens in proper orientation, or combinations thereof. In this review, we describe different chemical bioconjugation methods, approaches for genetic fusion of recombinant antigens, biological affinity tags, and enzymatic conjugation methods to effectively present antigens on the surface of protein nanoparticle vaccine scaffolds.
Is it the mere female directors or their attributes that matter for the quality of corporate sustainability disclosures?
Authors: Rahman Haseeb Ur , Zahid Muhammad , Jan Amin , Al‐Faryan Mamdouh Abdulaziz Saleh , Hussainey Khaled
Published: July 2023

This study aims to inquire whether it is the mere female directors or their certain attributes that improve the quality of corporate sustainability disclosures (QCSD). Annual and sustainability reports are used to obtain data for 300 non‐financial Pakistani listed companies selected through stratified random sampling for the period 2012–2021. The study employed ordinary least squares with panel‐corrected standard errors to test research hypotheses. The findings that neither support “tokenism” nor “critical mass” assumptions revealed that firms with female directors on the board, regardless of how many, have better QCSD than others. Similarly, the proportion of female directors on the board and audit committee also showed a positive association with QCSD. The positive role of independent female directors and their experience was slightly more pronounced than the executive female directors and their experience in improving QCSD. Likewise, the positive effect of female directors' business‐related education was marginally higher than their non‐business education in improving QCSD. Furthermore, female directors' master's or above level of education had a significant positive, while their bachelor's or below level of education had no significant association with QCSD. The study offers several theoretical and practical implications.
What decides my purchase of non‐fungible tokens?
Authors: V Vishnu Prasad , Murthy Meta Dev Prasad , Joseph Joshy , Adhikari Atanu
Published: July 2023

This pioneering study wishes to advance our knowledge regarding consumers' motivating, inhibiting, and trust factors influencing their purchase of non‐fungible tokens (NFTs). Employing an extended valence framework (EVF), the authors investigate the role of the marketplace trust, marketplace reputation, and perceived regulatory support in addition to the benefits and risks of the new NFT technology; in eliciting a purchase intention for NFTs. A survey of 358 NFT enthusiasts is conducted to empirically test the EVF using the structural equation modeling (SEM) technique (study 1). Further, an experimental inquiry using a 3 × 3 between‐subjects design (study 2) is performed on actual NFT consumers to investigate the relative effectiveness of the focused benefits (value appreciation vs. exclusivity vs. enjoyment) and the brand extension (original product vs. near‐extension product vs. far‐extension product) in leading to positive outcomes like purchase intention and the price willing to pay for the NFTs. In addition to suggesting a comprehensive and useful framework for examining the psychological determinants of an individual's purchase intention for NFTs (study 1), the study 2 outcomes contribute significantly to future scholars and marketers by guiding them in designing effective benefits message appeals to the buyers in promoting their NFTs for original as well as brand extension products. The results recommend that NFT marketers focus on the exclusivity benefits of the NFTs for higher willingness to pay among the users while signaling value appreciation benefits shall evoke the highest purchase intention among the three benefit message appeals.
Concise Total Syntheses of (+)‐Brefeldin A, Diastereomers and Analogs and Their Biological Activity
Authors: Klychnikov Mikhail K. , Pohl Radek , Císařová Ivana , Hájek Miroslav , Jahn Ullrich
Published: July 2023

Brefeldin A is an important natural product and biochemical tool with cell‐modulating and other diverse biological activities. To explore its chemical space, a generally applicable strategy for total syntheses of naturally occurring (+)‐brefeldin A (BFA), 2‐epi‐BFA, their diastereomers and analogs with varying macrocyclic ring size is reported. The five‐membered ring fragment was constructed by a short three‐step sequence consisting of tandem nucleophilic epoxide opening/Brook rearrangement/radical oxygenation and subsequent thermal radical cyclization based on the persistent radical effect. Further key steps are asymmetric aldehyde vinylation, which enables control of the absolute configuration at the allylic hydroxy group of BFA, cross‐metatheses reactions for attachment of the northern and southern side chains to the cyclopentane unit and final Shiina macrolactonization. The cytotoxic activity of all compounds was determined, and several analogs proved to be similarly active as BFA, providing insight about regions of the skeleton that can be varied or have to be conserved with respect to their biological activities. Fluorescence microscopy revealed that BFA and some non‐natural analogs disassemble the Golgi apparatus in cells with large variation of the disassembly and subsequent reassembly times.
Impact of wearing Comfiknit Atopic Eczema® T‐shirts on patients with atopic dermatitis: An open‐label pilot study
Authors: Hattori Naoko , Morisaki Hitomi , Matsumoto Mai , Takenaka Motoi , Lau Kenneth , Oniwa Yasuhiko , Murota Hiroyuki
Published: July 2023

Objectives

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is aggravated by various factors, including perspiration and heat. Thus, it is recommended that AD patients wear breathable clothing to maintain disease remission. Japan has four seasons, so the ideal clothing for individuals with AD may differ throughout the year. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of wearing a newly developed performance fabric, named the Comfiknit Atopic Eczema® T‐shirt, which absorbs excess perspiration from the skin surface and retains moisture within the fabric. We evaluated the effects of the T‐shirts on the clinical characteristics of AD and compared the effects in summer and winter.

Methods

Ten adult outpatients with AD took part in an open‐label pilot study for 4 weeks during the summer and for 4 weeks during the winter. The Eczema Area and Severity Index (EASI), the Patient‐Oriented Eczema Measure (POEM), the itch Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), the stratum corneum water content (SCWC), skin pH, and skin bacterial cultures were evaluated. A Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire for Medication‐9 (TSQM‐9) was filled out only after the intervention.

Results

The mean EASI, POEM, and itch VAS scores in both summer and winter fell after wearing the Comfiknit Atopic Eczema® T‐shirts, whereas the SCWC increased. There was no significant difference in the skin surface pH or bacterial cultures before and after the intervention.

Conclusions

Wearing Comfiknit Atopic Eczema® T‐shirts helped to prevent exacerbation of AD in summer and winter. Thus, wearing T‐shirts made from performance fabric may help to maintain skin homeostasis.
Pharmacokinetic Comparison Between a Fixed‐Dose Combination of Empagliflozin L‐Proline/Metformin and Empagliflozin/Metformin in Healthy Korean Subjects
Authors: Lee HyunJoon , Chung Jae‐Yong , Yu Kyung‐Sang , Park Shin‐Jung , Lee Soyoung
Published: July 2023

Empagliflozin and metformin are oral antidiabetic drugs commonly used to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus as a combination therapy. This study aimed to compare the pharmacokinetics and safety of a newly developed fixed‐dose combination of 5‐mg empagliflozin L‐proline and 1000‐mg metformin with the reference drug. A randomized, open‐label, single‐dose, 2‐period, 2‐treatment, crossover study was conducted in healthy Korean subjects. The subjects received a single oral dose of reference drug or test drug at each period. The pharmacokinetic (PK) parameters were calculated using a noncompartmental method. The geometric mean ratios and 90% confidence intervals of the plasma maximum concentration (Cmax) and area under the concentration–time curve from time zero to the last quantifiable concentration (AUClast) were calculated. A total of 27 healthy subjects were included in the PK analysis. For empagliflozin, the geometric mean ratios (90% confidence intervals) of the test to reference drug for Cmax and AUClast were 1.03 (0.99–1.08) and 1.03 (1.00–1.06), respectively. For metformin, the corresponding values for Cmax and AUClast were 0.99 (0.92–1.06) and 1.00 (0.94–1.06), respectively. In conclusion, a fixed‐dose combination of empagliflozin L‐proline and metformin showed similar PK characteristics to the reference drug, and both drugs were safe in healthy subjects.
Design and Execution of Sustainable Decentralized Clinical Trials
Authors: Singh Pritibha , Burden Andrea M. , Natanegara Fanni , Beckman Robert A.
Published: July 2023

The decentralized clinical trial (DCT) approach is increasingly recognized as a means to accelerate the development of potential therapeutic interventions. DCTs have a crucial advantage over traditional clinical trials: patients are monitored in their environment using technology (e.g., wearables), that capture data as they continue in daily life. This narrative review outlines a gap analysis focused on the frameworks and guidance from expert working groups and regulatory agencies for the design and execution of DCTs. Eight DCT elements guided the analysis and summarized the frameworks and guidance: (1) suitability, (2) protocol, (3) investigational medicinal product (IMP) supply, (4) investigators and health care providers, (5) safety, (6) regulatory and ethics, (7) data and technology, and (8) engagement, communication, and advocacy. Based on the gap analysis, two key takeaways were identified: (1) a need for a comprehensive sustainability assessment of each DCT element; and (2) current frameworks and guidance provide recommendations on social sustainability and some on economic sustainability. DCTs are an essential evolution in healthcare research; however, more guidance related to a comprehensive assessment of designing and executing sustainable DCTs is needed. This is especially the case for environmental sustainability, including, for example, carbon footprint and disposal of IMPs and sensors.
Prevalence and risk factors of diabetic peripheral neuropathy: A population‐based cross‐sectional study in China
Authors: Wang Weimin , Ji Qiuhe , Ran Xinwu , Li Chenxi , Kuang Hongyu , Yu Xuefeng , Fang Hui , Yang Jing , Liu Jing , Xue Yaoming , Feng Bo , Lei Minxiang , Zhu Dalong
Published: July 2023

Aims

To assess the prevalence of diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) and its risk factors in the type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) population.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study enroled patients with T2DM between July and December 2017 from 24 provinces in China. Diabetic peripheral neuropathy and its severity were assessed by the Toronto clinical scoring system, neuropathy symptoms score (NSS) and neuropathy disability score. The prevalence of DPN and its risk factors were analysed.

Results

A total of 14,908 patients with T2DM were enroled. The prevalence of DPN was 67.6%. Among 10,084 patients with DPN, 4808 (47.7%), 3325 (33.0%), and 1951 (19.3%) had mild, moderate, and severe DPN, respectively. The prevalence of DPN in females was higher than in males (69.0% vs. 66.6%, P = 0.002). The prevalence of DPN increased with age and course of diabetes and decreased with body mass index (BMI) and education level (all P for trend <0.05). The comorbidities and complications in patients with DPN were higher than in those without DPN, including hypertension, myocardial infarction, diabetic retinopathy, and diabetic nephropathy (all P < 0.001). Age, hypertension, duration of diabetes, diabetic retinopathy, diabetic nephropathy, glycated haemoglobin, high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, and lower estimated glomerular filtration rate were positively associated with DPN, while BMI, education level, fasting C‐peptide, and uric acid were negatively associated with DPN.

Conclusions

Among patients with T2DM in China, the prevalence of DPN is high, especially in the elderly, low‐income, and undereducated patients.
Switching away from smoking at 12 months among adult JUUL users varying in recent history of quit attempts made with and without smoking cessation medication
Authors: Shiffman Saul , Hannon Michael J.
Published: July 2023

Some smokers switch away from smoking using e‐cigarettes, but guidelines recommend trying approved medications first. We analyzed switching in adult smokers using JUUL by their recent history of quit attempts and use of smoking cessation medications. Participants were 8511 adult (21+) established smokers (at baseline), in which 50.3% are daily smokers, in a longitudinal observational study who completed a survey 12 months after first purchasing a JUUL Starter Kit. At baseline, participants reported attempts to quit smoking in the prior year and use of pharmacotherapy (nicotine replacement therapy [NRT] or prescription medication) in their most recent attempt. The outcomes were switching (self‐reported no past‐30‐day smoking) and 50%+ reductions in cigarette consumption. Multivariable analyses were adjusted for baseline covariates. Two thirds of the participants had made a quit attempt in the year before purchasing JUUL. Overall, 59% [58%, 60%] had switched at 12 months. Switching was more likely in those who had used NRT and who attempted quitting without medication versus those who used prescription medications or made no quit attempt. In adjusted multivariable analyses, only making a past‐year quit attempt (vs. not) was associated with higher odds of switching (OR = 1.15 [1.04, 1.28]). Over 60% of dual users reduced cigarette consumption by ≥50%. These associations were largely similar in daily smokers. Twelve months after purchasing JUUL, almost all smokers reported either switching or reducing their smoking by 50%+, including those who had recently failed to quit smoking with approved pharmacotherapies. E‐cigarettes provide an alternative route to abstinence from smoking for smokers with a history of cessation and cessation treatment failure.
The impact of gender and frailty on the outcome of older patients with functional mitral regurgitation
Authors: Bruno Raphael Romano , Uzel Robert , Spieker Maximilian , Datz Christian , Oehler Daniel , Bönner Florian , Kelm Malte , Hoppichler Friedrich , Jung Christian , Wernly Bernhard
Published: July 2023

Aims

Functional mitral regurgitation (MR) is the second most common valvular heart disease worldwide and is increasing with age. The present study investigates the gender distribution and 1 year prognosis of older patients (≥65 years) with pharmacologically treated MR in a real‐world population with moderate to severe functional MR.

Methods and results

This a single‐centre retrospective observational cohort study and included 243 medically treated patients with moderate to severe MR from 2014 to 2020. Echocardiography was performed at baseline. The combined endpoint was hospitalization due to heart failure and all‐cause death. There were more female than male patients (42% vs. 58%) without differences regarding age (81 ± 7 years in males vs. 82 ± 8 years in females, P = 0.24). Heart failure symptoms were distributed equally in both groups. Almost half of the patients evidenced a high EuroSCORE II (41%/42%). Atrial fibrillation was frequent, affecting 65% male and 64% female patients (P = 0.89). There were no differences regarding medical treatment. In both genders, two‐thirds of the patients displayed MR grade II° (71% (72), and 69% (97)), and one‐third showed MR grade III° (29% (30) vs. 31% (44), respectively, P = 0.76). Although males had larger left ventricular end‐diastolic diameter, lower ejection fraction (39% (16) vs. 48% (14), P < 0.001), and more dilated left atria. After 1 year, genders did not differ regarding the combined primary endpoint of hospitalization due to heart failure and all‐cause mortality (32% (33) for males vs. 29% (41) for females, P = 0.61). One‐year mortality was low and equal in both cohorts (11% in males and 9% in females, P = 0.69). In univariate Cox regression proportion hazard model, being female was not associated with the primary endpoint (hazard ratio 0.87 (95% confidence interval 0.55 to 1.37), P = 0.54). Multivariable adjustment for EuroSCORE II and frailty did not result in a significant change regarding the impact of the female gender.

Conclusions

Despite better left ventricular systolic function, mortality in medically treated older female patients suffering from functional mitral regurgitation is not lower than in males. In this real‐world cohort, frailty was a stronger predictor of clinical outcome than gender.
Invariant natural killer T cells drive hepatic homeostasis in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease via sustained IL‐10 expression in CD170+ Kupffer cells
Authors: Han Mutian , Geng Jinke , Zhang Shuangshuang , Rao Jia , Zhu Yansong , Xu Shaodong , Wang Fei , Ma Fang , Zhou Meng , Zhou Hong
Published: July 2023

Kupffer cells (KCs) are liver‐resident macrophages involved in hepatic inflammatory responses, including nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) development. However, the contribution of KC subsets to liver inflammation remains unclear. Here, using high‐dimensional single‐cell RNA sequencing, we characterized murine embryo‐derived KCs and identified two KC populations with different gene expression profiles: KC‐1 and KC‐2. KC‐1 expressed CD170, exhibiting immunoreactivity and immune‐regulatory abilities, while KC‐2 highly expressed lipid metabolism‐associated genes. In a high‐fat diet–induced NAFLD model, KC‐1 cells differentiated into pro‐inflammatory phenotypes and initiated more frequent communications with invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells. In KC‐1, interleukin (IL)‐10 expression was unaffected by the high‐fat diet but impaired by iNKT cell ablation and upregulated by iNKT cell adoptive transfer in vivo. Moreover, in a cellular co‐culture system, primary hepatic iNKT cells promoted IL‐10 expression in RAW264.7 and primary KC‐1 cells. CD206 signal blocking in KC‐1 or CD206 knockdown in RAW264.7 cells significantly reduced IL‐10 expression. In conclusion, we identified two embryo‐derived KC subpopulations with distinct transcriptional profiles. The CD206‐mediated crosstalk between iNKT and KC‐1 cells maintains IL‐10 expression in KC‐1 cells, affecting hepatic immune balance. Therefore, KC‐based therapeutic strategies must consider cellular heterogeneity and the local immune microenvironment for enhanced specificity and efficiency.
Hybrid TH precoding with subarray connection for multi‐user mmWave MIMO systems
Authors: Du Ruiyan , Guan Zhiqing , Feng Tian , Liu Fulai
Published: July 2023

Existing linear algorithms based on subarray connection (SC) structures may cause noise enhancement and performance degradation. To solve this problem, this paper presents a nonlinear hybrid Tomlinson‐Harashima precoding (THP) algorithm based on SC structure, named as THP‐SC algorithm. In the proposed algorithm, the sum‐rate optimization problem can be transformed into two equivalent optimization subproblems including the transmitter optimization subproblem and the receiver optimization subproblem. These two subproblems are easy to solve. Furthermore, the analog precoding and combining matrices of the optimization subproblem are solved by a new improved successive interference cancelation (SIC) algorithm based on the singular value threshold shrinkage (SVS), which can effectively reduce the computational complexity while eliminating the interference. In the end, the digital precoding and combining matrices are obtained by TH method. Through the joint optimization of the transmitter and receiver matrices in the system, the optimal solution is obtained by alternate iteration of the matrices. In this paper, a more realistic line‐of‐sight (LOS) and non‐line‐of‐sight (NLOS) channel system is also considered. Simulations verify that the proposed algorithm can improve the spectral efficiency and energy efficiency to some extent with a comparable complexity compared to the previous works.
Methyl jasmonate‐dependent hydrogen sulfide mediates melatonin‐induced aphid resistance of watermelon
Authors: Su Zhuangzhuang , Lan Zhixiang , Gao Yufan , Liu Yunfei , Shen Jian , Guo Yanliang , Ma Jianxiang , Zhang Yong , Luan Feishi , Zhang Xian , Li Hao
Published: July 2023

As one of the most destructive pests, aphids cause significant damage on various agricultural and horticultural crops. Recently, melatonin has been shown to enhance plant resistance to aphids; however, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. In this study, our results showed that melatonin, MeJA, and H2S enhanced aphid resistance of watermelon in a dose‐dependent manner, accompanied by increases in the defense‐related enzyme activities and lignin accumulation. On the plants pretreated with 100 μM melatonin, 100 μM MeJA, and 50 μM NaHS, the numbers of aphids were 86.0%, 59.6%, and 47.9% lower than that on control plants, respectively, after aphid infestation for 7 days. Melatonin application induced MeJA and H2S accumulation in response to aphid infestation, while inhibition of MeJA and H2S accumulation attenuated or abolished melatonin‐induced defense response and aphid resistance, suggestive of the involvement of MeJA and H2S in melatonin‐induced aphid resistance. MeJA also increased H2S accumulation, but inhibition of MeJA biosynthesis prevented melatonin‐enhanced H2S accumulation, suggesting that MeJA mediates melatonin‐induced H2S accumulation. Furthermore, inhibition of H2S production attenuated MeJA‐induced defense response and aphid resistance. Taken together, the current study reveals a novel mechanism in which MeJA‐dependent H2S signaling is involved in melatonin‐induced defense response and subsequent aphid resistance. The increasing concern to minimize the use of pesticides and to switch onto sustainable and natural control strategies indicates the great exploitation of such a mechanism in combating aphids.
Artificial Intelligence Community and Self
Authors: Tu Peter
Published: July 2023

The means by which artificial intelligence systems will both interact and influence individuals and community are considered, with a description of current capabilities such as video analytics, agency, natural language processing, and online data analysis. Open research questions such as the roles of analogies, associative memory, and the grounding problem are discussed, with speculation presented regarding the possible ramification of this research agenda. Such topics will include how artificial intelligence and humanity might co‐evolve; artificial creativity; and life without work.
The Role of Open‐Source Software in Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Spohrer Jim
Published: July 2023

With this publication, we launch a new column for AI Magazine on the role of open‐source software in artificial intelligence. As the column editor, I would like to extend my welcome and invite AI Magazine readers to send short articles for future columns, which may appear in the traditional print version of AI Magazine, or on the AI Magazine interactive site currently under development. This introductory column serves to highlight my interests in open‐source software and to propose a few topics for future columns.
Pharmacist review of chronic inhaler therapy appropriateness for hospitalized patients with COPD or asthma
Authors: Parrott Tate D. , Wallace Matthew D. , Niehoff Kristina M. , Eble Sarah H. , Blumenfeld Lauren , Sevin Carla M. , Choma Neesha N. , Gao Yue , Choi Leena , Lindsell Christopher J. , Zuckerman Autumn D.
Published: July 2023

Patients with asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease rely on inhaler therapy to reduce disease progression and exacerbation risk. Patients admitted to the hospital are at an increased risk for exacerbations and readmission if their inhaler therapy upon discharge is not aligned with current guidelines and/or affordable. The objective of this study was to assess the appropriateness of the chronic inhaler regimen for patients admitted to the hospital based on clinical practice guidelines and insurance coverage. A sub‐study was designed to analyze a cohort of a single‐center, pragmatic, prospective randomized controlled trial at a large academic medical center. Patients admitted to a medicine service with a pharmacist and prescribed a long‐acting inhaler were included. Participants randomized to a pharmacist‐led intervention were assessed for inhaler appropriateness based on clinical guidelines and patient insurance. The objective of this sub‐study is to assess the number of inhalers identified as inappropriate based on the pharmacist's review. A patient was considered to have an inappropriate inhaler regimen if any of their inhalers were inconsistent with guideline recommendations or not covered by insurance. Descriptive statistics were used to characterize appropriate inhaler use. The study pharmacist reviewed 552 unique inhalers for 348 patients. Overall, 42% of inhalers were inappropriate, affecting 50.3% of participants; 20% of inhalers were inappropriate based on insurance, 26% were inappropriate based on guidelines, and 7% were inappropriate based on both criteria. Recommendations were placed via a pharmacy consult for 198 patients (57%), most recommending an inhaler initiation (55%), followed by inhaler discontinuation (38%). A pharmacist‐led review of chronic inhaler therapy for patients admitted to the hospital identified the need for a change in therapy based on financial or clinical guidelines in over half of the patients reviewed. Interventions to increase the appropriateness of prescribed inhalers are needed to reduce disease progression and disease exacerbation.
Tendon‐derived matrix crosslinking techniques for electrospun multi‐layered scaffolds
Authors: Jenkins Thomas L. , Sarmiento Huertas Paula A. , Umemori Kentaro , Guilak Farshid , Little Dianne
Published: July 2023

Tendon tears are common and healing often occurs incompletely and by fibrosis. Tissue engineering seeks to improve repair, and one approach under investigation uses cell‐seeded scaffolds containing biomimetic factors. Retention of biomimetic factors on the scaffolds is likely critical to maximize their benefit, while minimizing the risk of adverse effects, and without losing the beneficial effects of the biomimetic factors. The aim of the current study was to evaluate cross‐linking methods to enhance the retention of tendon‐derived matrix (TDM) on electrospun poly(ε‐caprolactone) (PCL) scaffolds. We tested the effects of ultraviolet (UV) or carbodiimide (EDC:NHS:COOH) crosslinking methods to better retain TDM to the scaffolds and stimulate tendon‐like matrix synthesis. Initially, we tested various crosslinking configurations of carbodiimide (2.5:1:1, 5:2:1, and 10:4:1 EDC:NHS:COOH ratios) and UV (30 s 1 J/cm2, 60 s 1 J/cm2, and 60 s 4 J/cm2) on PCL films compared to un‐crosslinked TDM. We found that no crosslinking tested retained more TDM than coating alone (Kruskal‐Wallis: p > .05), but that human adipose stem cells (hASCs) spread most on the 60 s 1 J/cm2 UV‐ and 2.5:1:1 EDC‐crosslinked films (Kruskal‐Wallis: p < .05). Next, we compared the effects of 60 s 1 J/cm2 UV‐ and 2.5:1:1 EDC‐crosslinked to TDM‐coated and untreated PCL scaffolds on hASC‐induced tendon‐like differentiation. UV‐crosslinked scaffolds had greater modulus and stiffness than PCL or TDM scaffolds, and hASCs spread more on UV‐crosslinked scaffolds (ANOVA: p < .05). Fourier transform infrared spectra revealed that UV‐ or EDC‐crosslinking TDM did not affect the peaks at wavenumbers characteristic of tendon. Crosslinking TDM to electrospun scaffolds improves tendon‐like matrix synthesis, providing a viable strategy for improving retention of TDM on electrospun PCL scaffolds.
Black males and school counselors: Do they experience the culture in counseling programs and departments differently from Black females?
Authors: Bryan Julia , Kim Jungnam , Liu Chang
Published: July 2023

This study examined the effects of school counseling college‐going culture (SCCGC) on Black male students’ college outcomes using a sample from the High School Longitudinal Study, and whether these effects differed for males versus females. Regression analyses revealed that different aspects of SCCGC were more salient for Black males compared to Black females. For example, counselor expectations appeared more important for males and school connectedness for females suggesting the dangers of a one‐size‐fits‐all approach to college going.
Displacement of human milk during fortification: An experimental study
Authors: Bingham Rhyan , Pineda Daphne , Gates Amy , Thompson Amy B. , Stansfield Brian K.
Published: July 2023

Background

This study quantified the displacement of human milk by commercial human milk fortifiers (HMFs) and infant formulas.

Methods

Commercial liquid HMFs and powder infant formulas were added to pasteurized pooled donor human milk in triplicate, stirred, and weighed. The difference in weight between unfortified and fortified human milk at 22, 24, 26, 27, 28, and 30 kcal/ounce was calculated.

Results

The displacement of human milk by liquid HMFs and powder infant formulas and powder HMF was highly associated with energy density. A human milk–derived HMF displaced significantly more human milk when compared with bovine milk–derived HMFs at equivalent energy densities. Similarly, powder infant formulas displaced less human milk when compared with a powder HMF, and the addition of hydrolyzed powder infant formulas resulted in less human milk displacement when compared with nonhydrolyzed powder infant formulas.

Conclusions

The displacement of human milk by commercial liquid HMFs and infant formulas must be considered when selecting a fortifying strategy.