bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transmission of haemotropic mycoplasma in the absence of arthropod vectors within a closed population of dogs on ectoparasiticides
Authors: Huggins Lucas G. , Baydoun Zahida , Mab Ron , Khouri Yulia , Schunack Bettina , Traub Rebecca J. , Colella Vito
Published: June 2023

Dog-infecting haemotropic mycoplasmas (haemoplasmas), such as Mycoplasmahaemocanis and Candidatus Mycoplasma haematoparvum are common blood-borne pathogens of canines that can potentially inflict a substantial burden of disease, particularly in immunosuppressed individuals. Nonetheless, the transmission of these pathogens remains debated as more evidence emerges that they may not be transmitted by vectors, but instead use alternative methods such as aggressive interactions and vertical transmission. Here, we treated forty dogs with two different topically-acting ectoparasiticide products able to prevent vector-borne pathogen infections during an 8-month community trial in Cambodia. A total absence of ectoparasites were observed at all time points, and no new infections caused by pathogens confirmed as being vectorially-transmitted were detected, i.e., Babesiavogeli, Ehrlichiacanis, Anaplasmaplatys, and Hepatozooncanis. Conversely, the number of haemoplasma infections in dogs on both ectoparasiticides rose significantly, with an incidence of 26 infections per 100 dogs at risk per year, providing strong evidence of non-vectorial transmission. Over the study period, dog aggression and fighting were frequently observed, highlighting a different potential mode of transmission. This study presents the first robust evidence that canine haemoplasmas may be transmitted without arthropod vectors drawing attention to the need for new methods to prevent their transmission.
Prognosis of patients with systemic sclerosis-related interstitial lung disease on the lung transplant waiting list: a retrospective study
Authors: Nakayama Yoichi , Nakashima Ran , Handa Tomohiro , Ohsumi Akihiro , Yamada Yoshito , Nakajima Daisuke , Yutaka Yojiro , Tanaka Satona , Hamada Satoshi , Ikezoe Kohei , Tanizawa Kiminobu , Shirakashi Mirei , Hiwa Ryosuke , Tsuji Hideaki , Kitagori Koji , Akizuki Shuji , Yoshifuji Hajime , Date Hiroshi , Morinobu Akio
Published: June 2023

Advanced systemic sclerosis-associated interstitial lung disease (SSc-ILD) can be treated with lung transplantation. There is limited data on lung transplantation outcomes in patients with SSc-ILD, in non-Western populations.We assessed survival data of patients with SSc-ILD, on the lung transplant (LT) waiting list, and evaluated post-transplant outcomes in patients from an Asian LT center. In this single-center retrospective study, 29 patients with SSc-ILD, registered for deceased LT at Kyoto University Hospital, between 2010 and 2022, were identified. We investigated post-transplant outcomes in recipients who underwent LT for SSc-ILD, between February 2002 and April 2022. Ten patients received deceased-donor LT (34%), two received living-donor LT (7%), seven died waiting for LT (24%), and ten survived on the waiting list (34%). Median duration from registration to deceased-donor LT was 28.9 months and that from registration to living-donor LT or death was 6.5 months. Analysis of 15 recipients showed improved forced vital capacity with a median of 55.1% at baseline, 65.8% at 6 months, and 80.3% at 12 months post-transplant. The 5-year survival rate for post-transplant patients with SSc-ILD was 86.2%. The higher post-transplant survival rate at our institute than previously reported suggests that lung transplantation is acceptable in Asian patients with SSc-ILD.
A novel approach for the biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles using the defensive gland extracts of the beetle, Luprops tristis Fabricius
Authors: Ajaykumar Anthyalam Parambil , Sabira Ovungal , Sebastian Merin , Varma Sudhir Rama , Roy Kanakkassery Balan , Binitha Valiyaparambil Sivadasan , Rasheed Vazhanthodi Abdul , Jayaraj Kodangattil Narayanan , Vignesh Attuvalappil Ravidas
Published: June 2023

Discovering novel natural resources for the biological synthesis of metal nanoparticles is one of the two key challenges facing by the field of nanoparticle synthesis. The second challenge is a lack of information on the chemical components needed for the biological synthesis and the chemical mechanism involved in the metal nanoparticles synthesis. In the current study, microwave-assisted silver nanoparticle (AgNP) synthesis employing the defensive gland extract of Mupli beetle, Luprops tristis Fabricius (Order: Coleoptera; Family: Tenebrionidae), addresses these two challenges. This study was conducted without killing the experimental insect. Earlier studies in our laboratory showed the presence of the phenolic compounds, 2,3-dimethyl-1,4-benzoquinone, 1,3-dihydroxy-2-methylbenzene, and 2,5-dimethylhydroquinone in the defensive gland extract of L. tristis. The results of the current study show that the phenolic compounds in the defensive gland extract of the beetle has the ability to reduce silver ions into AgNPs and also acts as a good capping and stabilizing agent. A possible mechanism for the reduction of silver nitrate (AgNO3) into AgNPs is suggested. The synthesized AgNPs were characterized by Ultraviolet–Visible (UV–Vis) spectroscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy energy-dispersive X-ray (SEM–EDX) analysis and high-resolution transmission electron microscopic (HR-TEM) techniques. The stability of biologically synthesized nanoparticles was studied by zeta potential analysis. The TEM analysis confirmed that AgNPs are well dispersed and almost round shaped. The average size of nanoparticle ranges from 10 to 20 nm. EDX analysis showed that silver is the prominent metal present in the nanomaterial solution. The AgNPs synthesized have antibacterial property against both Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. Radical scavenging (DPPH) assay was used to determine the antioxidant activity of the AgNPs. AgNPs exhibited anticancer activity in a cytotoxicity experiment against Dalton’s lymphoma ascites (DLA) cell line.
3D fractures analysis and conservation assessment of wrought iron javelin through advanced non-invasive techniques
Authors: Bernabale Martina , Cognigni Flavio , Mancini Chiara , Proietti Anacleto , Mura Francesco , Montanari Daria , Nigro Lorenzo , Rossi Marco , De Vito Caterina
Published: June 2023

3D imaging is a powerful tool of high resolution and non-destructive imaging technology for the study of ancient weapons and military technology, which reveals the original microstructures and corrosion patterns that threaten these artefacts. Here we report quantitative analysis of the 3D distribution and the orientation of fractures, and uncorroded metal particles within a wrought iron javelin unearthed at the Phoenician-Punic site of Motya, Italy. The study aimed to gain a better understanding of the relationship between corrosion and local stresses within the artifact and to evaluate its manufacturing technology, as well as the effects of post-treatment with Paraloid B72 on concretion and mineralized layers. The cracks were quantified in terms of content, size, and orientation. The condition of artefact storage was evaluated by a multi-analytical approach, including X-ray microscopy, field emission electron microscopy and micro-Raman spectroscopy. The results indicated that a specific technique was used to create a sturdy, lightweight javelin with a central shaft for piercing or thrusting. The fractures appear elongated in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the blade, showing the forging direction of the original metallic block. The study concluded that the artifact had not yet been stabilized due to the presence of lepidocrocite.
[1,2,4]triazolo[3,4-b][1,3,4]thiadiazole derivatives as new therapeutic candidates against urease positive microorganisms: design, synthesis, pharmacological evaluations, and in silico studies
Authors: Khalili Ghomi Minoo , Noori Milad , Nazari Montazer Mohammad , Zomorodian Kamiar , Dastyafteh Navid , Yazdanpanah Somayeh , Sayahi Mohammad Hosein , Javanshir Shahrzad , Nouri Abbas , Asadi Mehdi , Badali Hamid , Larijani Bagher , Irajie Cambyz , Iraji Aida , Mahdavi Mohammad
Published: June 2023

Regarding the important role of the urease enzyme as a virulence factor in urease-positive microorganisms in this study, new series of [1,2,4]triazolo[3,4-b][1,3,4]thiadiazole derivatives were designed and synthesized. All compounds evaluated against urease enzyme exhibiting IC50 values of 0.87 ± 0.09 to 8.32 ± 1.21 µM as compared with thiourea as the positive control (IC50 = 22.54 ± 2.34 µM). The kinetic evaluations of 6a as the most potent derivative recorded a competitive type of inhibition. Molecular dynamic simulations of the 6a derivative were also conducted, showing that 6a occupied the active site with closed state. Antimicrobial activities of all derivatives were performed, and 6f (R = 3-Cl), 6g (R = 4-Cl), and 6h (R = 3,4-diCl) analogs demonstrated significant antifungal activities with MIC values of 1, 2, and 0.5 µg/mL compared with fluconazole with MIC = 2 µg/mL. Synthesized analogs also exhibited potent urease inhibitory activities against C. neoformans (IC50 = 83.7–118.7 µg/mL) and P. mirabilis (IC50 = 74.5–113.7 µg/mL), confirming their urease inhibitory potential. The results demonstrated that the designed scaffold could be considered a suitable pharmacophore to develop potent urease inhibitors.
An automatic and personalized recommendation modelling in activity eCoaching with deep learning and ontology
Authors: Chatterjee Ayan , Prinz Andreas , Riegler Michael Alexander , Meena Yogesh Kumar
Published: June 2023

Electronic coaching (eCoach) facilitates goal-focused development for individuals to optimize certain human behavior. However, the automatic generation of personalized recommendations in eCoaching remains a challenging task. This research paper introduces a novel approach that combines deep learning and semantic ontologies to generate hybrid and personalized recommendations by considering “Physical Activity” as a case study. To achieve this, we employ three methods: time-series forecasting, time-series physical activity level classification, and statistical metrics for data processing. Additionally, we utilize a naïve-based probabilistic interval prediction technique with the residual standard deviation used to make point predictions meaningful in the recommendation presentation. The processed results are integrated into activity datasets using an ontology called OntoeCoach, which facilitates semantic representation and reasoning. To generate personalized recommendations in an understandable format, we implement the SPARQL Protocol and RDF Query Language (SPARQL). We evaluate the performance of standard time-series forecasting algorithms [such as 1D Convolutional Neural Network Model (CNN1D), autoregression, Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM), and Gated Recurrent Units (GRU)] and classifiers [including Multilayer Perceptron (MLP), Rocket, MiniRocket, and MiniRocketVoting] using state-of-the-art metrics. We conduct evaluations on both public datasets (e.g., PMData) and private datasets (e.g., MOX2-5 activity). Our CNN1D model achieves the highest prediction accuracy of 97$$\%$$
%
, while the MLP model outperforms other classifiers with an accuracy of 74$$\%$$
%
. Furthermore, we evaluate the performance of our proposed OntoeCoach ontology model by assessing reasoning and query execution time metrics. The results demonstrate that our approach effectively plans and generates recommendations on both datasets. The rule set of OntoeCoach can also be generalized to enhance interpretability.
Prevalence and influencing factors of hyperuricemia in middle-aged and older adults in the Yao minority area of China: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Lyu Xiao , Du Yuanxiao , Liu Guoyu , Mai Tingyu , Li You , Zhang Zhiyong , Bei Chunhua
Published: June 2023

Hyperuricemia (HUA) endangers human health, and its prevalence has increased rapidly in recent decades. The current study investigated HUA's prevalence and influencing factors in Gongcheng, southern China. A cross-sectional investigation was conducted; 2128 participants aged 30–93 years were included from 2018 to 2019. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression models were used to screen HUA variables. A Bayesian network model was constructed using the PC algorithm to evaluate the association between influencing factors and HUA. The prevalence of HUA was 15.6% (23.2% in men, 10.7% in women). After screening the variables using a logistic regression analysis model, fatty liver disease (FLD), dyslipidemia, abdominal obesity, creatinine (CREA), somatotype, bone mass, drinking, and physical activity level at work were included in the Bayesian network model. The model results showed that dyslipidemia, somatotype, CREA, and drinking were directly related to HUA. Bone mass and FLD were indirectly associated with HUA by affecting the somatotype. The prevalence of HUA in Gongcheng was high in China. The prevalence of HUA was related to somatotype, drinking, bone mass, physical activity level at work, and other metabolic diseases. A good diet and moderate exercise are recommended to maintain a healthy somatotype and reduce the prevalence rate of HUA.
Impact of systemic dexamethasone dosage on docetaxel-induced oral mucositis in patients with breast cancer
Authors: Saito Yoshitaka , Takekuma Yoh , Takeshita Takashi , Oshino Tomohiro , Sugawara Mitsuru
Published: June 2023

Oral mucositis (OM) is a common adverse effect of docetaxel-containing treatment. This study aimed to assess whether dexamethasone (DEX) dose-dependently attenuates docetaxel-induced OM and dysgeusia. We retrospectively analyzed medical records of patients with breast cancer receiving docetaxel-containing regimens at Hokkaido University Hospital between June 2015 and June 2022. The patients were divided into low-dose and high-dose groups (DEX 4 or 8 mg/day on days 2–4, respectively), and incidence of OM and dysgeusia, and risk factor(s) for OM incidence were evaluated. The incidence of all-grade OM in the first cycle was 57.8% in the low-dose group and 19.2% in the high-dose group (P = 0.0002), which met our primary endpoint. The incidence of OM in all treatment cycles was also significantly lowered by DEX-dose increase (P = 0.01). In contrast, the incidence of dysgeusia was similar between the two groups in the first and all cycles (P = 0.50 and P = 0.28, respectively). These results were also confirmed in a propensity score-matched population. Multivariate logistic regression analysis also suggested that lower DEX dosage was a singular risk factor for all-grade OM incidence. In conclusion, our study suggests that DEX dose-dependently reduces the incidence of OM in docetaxel-containing regimens for breast cancer treatment.
Data-driven models to predict shale wettability for CO2 sequestration applications
Authors: Ibrahim Ahmed Farid , Elkatatny Salaheldin
Published: June 2023

The significance of CO2 wetting behavior in shale formations has been emphasized in various CO2 sequestration applications. Traditional laboratory experimental techniques used to assess shale wettability are complex and time-consuming. To overcome these limitations, the study proposes the use of machine learning (ML); artificial neural networks (ANN), support vector machines (SVM), and adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference systems (ANFIS) tools to estimate the contact angle, a key indicator of shale wettability, providing a more efficient alternative to conventional laboratory methods. A dataset comprising various shale samples under different conditions was collected to predict shale-water-CO2 wettability by considering shale properties, operating pressure and temperature, and brine salinity. Pearson’s correlation coefficient (R) was utilized to assess the linearity between the contact angle (CA) value and other input parameters. Initial data analysis showed that the elements affecting the shale wettability are primarily reliant on the pressure and temperature at which it operates, the total organic content (TOC), and the mineral composition of the rock. Between the different ML models, the artificial neural network (ANN) model performed the best, achieving a training R2 of 0.99, testing R2 of 0.98 and a validation R2 of 0.96, with an RMSE below 5. The adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) model also accurately predicted the contact angle, obtaining a training R2 of 0.99, testing R2 of 0.97 and a validation R2 of 0.95. Conversely, the support vector machine (SVM) model displayed signs of overfitting, as it achieved R2 values of 0.99 in the training dataset, which decreased to 0.94 in the testing dataset, and 0.88 in the validation dataset. To avoid rerunning the ML models, an empirical correlation was developed based on the optimized weights and biases obtained from the ANN model to predict contact angle values using input parameters and the validation data set revealed R2 of 0.96. The parametric study showed that, among the factors influencing shale wettability at a constant TOC, pressure had the most significant impact, and the dependency of the contact angle on pressure increased when TOC values were high.
Event trigger based adaptive neural trajectory tracking finite time control for underactuated unmanned marine surface vessels with asymmetric input saturation
Authors: Hu Yancai , Zhang Qiang , Liu Yang , Meng Xiangfei
Published: June 2023

An adaptive finite time trajectory tracking control method is presented for underactuated unmanned marine surface vessels (MSVs) by employing neural networks to approximate system uncertainties. The proposed algorithm is developed by combining event-triggered control (ETC) and finite-time convergence (FTC) techniques. The dynamic event-triggered condition is adopted to avert the frequent acting of actuators using an adjustable triggered variable to regulate the minimal inter-event times. While solving the system uncertainties and asymmetric input saturation, an adaptive neural networks based backstepping controller is designed based on FTC under bounded disturbances. In addition, via Lyapunov approach it is proved that all signals in the closed-loop system are semi-global uniformly ultimately bounded. Finally, simulations results are shown to demonstrate the effectiveness of this proposed scheme.
Plasma-discharge-integrated slot structure for microwave power limiter
Authors: Woo Jeong Min , Ju Mun No , Lee Jae-Bok
Published: June 2023

A slot structure was combined with a discharge electrode to limit incident high-power microwaves via the integration of plasma discharge. At the target resonating frequency of 9.45 GHz, the surface current was concentrated at an electrode, and the electric field was enhanced by the proposed design to lower the response power level of the incident signal. When a low-power signal is injected, plasma is not generated, and the incident wave travels without insertion loss. Double-stage slot structures were utilized to broaden the band-pass characteristics in the frequency domain, and the demonstrated plasma limiter exhibited an insertion loss of 1.01 dB at 9.45 GHz. The xenon gas pressure was optimized with the shortest distance of 100 µm between the upper and lower electrodes to reduce the discharge power of the plasma. In the case of a high-power signal input, as xenon-gas breakdown occurred, the transmitted signal was close to zero, and most of the high-power signal was reflected with a blocking efficiency of 40.55 dB. The demonstrated result will be useful to protect the receiver of a radio detection and ranging system from the high power microwave.
Chronicity of high and low level mupirocin resistance in Staphylococcus aureus from 30 Indian hospitals
Authors: Prakash Rajni , Garg Amar , Arya Riteshkumar , Kumawat R. K.
Published: June 2023

Mupirocin is one of the most effective topically used antibiotic for the treatment of dermatitis, nasal carriage, decolonization of methicillin susceptible Staphylococcus aureus and eradication of methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus. Extensive use of this antibiotic has resulted in mupirocin resistance in Staphylococcus aureus which is a matter of concern. This study was conducted to evaluate the high and low level of mupirocin resistance in Staphylococcus aureus collected from various Indian hospitals. A total of 600 samples, of which 436 were pus specimens and 164 wound site swabs were collected from 30 Indian hospitals. Disc diffusion and agar dilution methods were used to test mupirocin susceptibility in methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus. Out of 600 Staphylococcus aureus isolates, 176 isolates (29.33%) were found to be methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Out of 176 non-duplicate MRSA strains, 138 isolates were found to be mupirocin sensitive, 21 isolates had high level resistance whereas 17 isolates had low level resistance to mupirocin, which contributed 78.41%, 11.93% and 9.66% respectively. Multidrug resistant susceptibility was tested for all the MRSA with Cefuroxime, Cotrimoxazole and Vancomycin antibiotics. All the high and low level resistant strain were subjected to genome screening for mupA ileS gene respectively. mupA gene was found positive in all the high level resistant strain and out of 17 low level resistant strain, 16 strain were found point mutation in V588F of ileS gene. Overall, high rate of mupirocin resistance was found in the studied samples which might be a result of indiscriminate use of mupirocin in the population of studied region. This data emphasizes the urgent need for formulation of a well-defined and regulated guidelines for mupirocin use. Moreover, continuous surveillance is needed for the use of mupirocin and routine test should be performed to detect MRSA in patients and health care personnel to prevent MRSA infections.
Multidecadal dynamics project slow 21st-century economic growth and income convergence
Authors: Burgess Matthew G. , Langendorf Ryan E. , Moyer Jonathan D. , Dancer Ashley , Hughes Barry B. , Tilman David
Published: June 2023

Future economic growth will affect societal well-being and the environment, but is uncertain. We describe a multidecadal pattern of gross domestic product (GDP) per capita growth rising, then declining, as regions become richer. An empirically fitted differential-equation model and an integrated assessment model—International Futures—accounting for this pattern both predict 21st-century economic outlooks with slow growth and income convergence compared to the Shared Socioeconomic Pathways, similar to SSP4 (“Inequality”). For World Bank income groups, the differential-equation model could have produced, from 1980, consistent projections of 2100 GDP per capita, and more accurate predictions of 2010s growth rates than the International Monetary Fund’s short-term forecasts. Both forecasts were positively biased for the low-income group. SSP4 might therefore represent a best-case—not worst-case—scenario for 21st-century economic growth and income convergence. International Futures projects high poverty and population growth, and moderate energy demands and carbon dioxide emissions, within the Shared Socioeconomic Pathway range.
Pest management science often disregards farming system complexities
Authors: Wyckhuys Kris A. G. , Tang Fiona H. M. , Hadi Buyung A. R.
Published: June 2023

Since the 1940s, pesticide-intensive crop protection has sustained food security but also caused pervasive impacts on biodiversity, environmental integrity and human health. Here, we employ a systematic literature review to structurally analyze pest management science in 65 developing countries. Within a corpus of 3,407 publications, we find that taxonomic coverage is skewed towards a subset of 48 herbivores. Simplified contexts are commonplace: 48% of studies are performed within laboratory confines. 80% treat management tactics in an isolated rather than integrated fashion. 83% consider no more than two out of 15 farming system variables. Limited attention is devoted to pest-pathogen or pest-pollinator interplay, trophic interactions across ecosystem compartments or natural pest regulation. By overlooking social strata, the sizable scientific progress on agroecological management translates into slow farm-level uptake. We argue that the scientific enterprise should integrate system complexity to chart sustainable trajectories for global agriculture and achieve transformative change on the ground.
Ensuring fair, safe, and interpretable artificial intelligence-based prediction tools in a real-world oncological setting
Authors: George Renee , Ellis Benjamin , West Andrew , Graff Alex , Weaver Stephen , Abramowski Michelle , Brown Katelin , Kerr Lauren , Lu Sheng-Chieh , Swisher Christine , Sidey-Gibbons Chris
Published: June 2023

Background

Cancer patients often experience treatment-related symptoms which, if uncontrolled, may require emergency department admission. We developed models identifying breast or genitourinary cancer patients at the risk of attending emergency department (ED) within 30-days and demonstrated the development, validation, and proactive approach to in-production monitoring of an artificial intelligence-based predictive model during a 3-month simulated deployment at a cancer hospital in the United States.

Methods

We used routinely-collected electronic health record data to develop our predictive models. We evaluated models including a variational autoencoderk-nearest neighbors algorithm (VAE-kNN) and model behaviors with a sample containing 84,138 observations from 28,369 patients. We assessed the model during a 77-day production period exposure to live data using a proactively monitoring process with predefined metrics.

Results

Performance of the VAE-kNN algorithm is exceptional (Area under the receiver-operating characteristics, AUC = 0.80) and remains stable across demographic and disease groups over the production period (AUC 0.74–0.82). We can detect issues in data feeds using our monitoring process to create immediate insights into future model performance.

Conclusions

Our algorithm demonstrates exceptional performance at predicting risk of 30-day ED visits. We confirm that model outputs are equitable and stable over time using a proactive monitoring approach.
Microstructural changes precede depression in patients with relapsing-remitting Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Riemer Frank , Skorve Ellen , Pasternak Ofer , Zaccagna Fulvio , Lundervold Astri J. , Torkildsen Øivind , Myhr Kjell-Morten , Grüner Renate
Published: June 2023

Background

Multiple Sclerosis lesions in the brain and spinal cord can lead to different symptoms, including cognitive and mood changes. In this study we explore the temporal relationship between early microstructural changes in subcortical volumes and cognitive and emotional function in a longitudinal cohort study of patients with relapsing-remitting Multiple Sclerosis.

Methods

In vivo imaging in forty-six patients with relapsing-remitting Multiple Sclerosis was performed annually over 3 years magnetic resonance imaging. Microstructural changes were estimated in subcortical structures using the free water fraction, a diffusion-based MRI metric. In parallel, patients were assessed with the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale amongst other tests. Predictive structural equation modeling was set up to further explore the relationship between imaging and the assessment scores. In a general linear model analysis, the cohort was split into patients with higher and lower depression scores.

Results

Nearly all subcortical diffusion microstructure estimates at the baseline visit correlate with the depression score at the 2 years follow-up. The predictive nature of baseline free water estimates and depression subscores after 2 years are confirmed in the predictive structural equation modeling analysis with the thalamus showing the greatest effect size. The general linear model analysis shows patterns of MRI free water differences in the thalamus and amygdala/hippocampus area between participants with high and low depression score.

Conclusions

Our data suggests a relationship between higher levels of free-water in the subcortical structures in an early stage of Multiple Sclerosis and depression symptoms at a later stage of the disease.
Deposition of ultra-thin coatings by a nature-inspired Spray-on-Screen technology
Authors: Kumar Rachith Shanivarasanthe Nithayanand , Ramirez Andrea Valencia , Verding Pieter , Nivelle Philippe , Renner Frank , D’Haen Jan , Deferme Wim
Published: June 2023

Nanometre-thick, ultrathin coatings applied over a large area are of paramount importance for various application fields such as biomedicine, space and automotive, organic electronics, memory devices, or energy storage devices. So far wet chemical deposition as a cost-effective, scalable, and versatile method can only be used for thicker deposits. Here the formation of uniform ultra-thin coatings with thicknesses below 15 nm using a nature-inspired, roll-to-roll compatible Spray-on-Screen (SoS) technology is reported. For this, the finite micro-droplet generation of Ultrasonic Spray Coating (USSC) is combined with the coating formation from a screen printing mesh. Hydrophobic micro-threads of the mesh, resembling the micro-hair on the legs of water striders, produce millidroplets from micro droplets, and when applying an external pressure to the mesh, dynamic wetting is enforced. The proposed technology is applicable for a wide variety of substrates and applications. It is shown by theory and experiment that ultra-thin coatings below 5 nm homogeneous over a large area can be deposited without the use of extended ink formulation or high substrate temperatures during or after deposition. This simple yet effective technique enables the deposition of ultra-thin films on any substrates, and is very promising to fabricate the organic, inorganic electronics devices and batteries cost effectively.
UK recommendations for the management of transgender and gender-diverse patients with inherited cancer risks
Authors: Giblin Josephine , Coad Beth , Lamb Catherine , Berlin Cheryl , Rea Gillian , Hanson Helen , Snape Katie , Berner Alison ,   Consensus Meeting attendees
Published: June 2023

As the rate of people openly identifying as transgender or gender diverse (TGD) is increasing, UK cancer genetics services are seeing growing numbers of TGD patients. Lack of appropriate clinical guidelines and a scarcity of robust data about the impact of gender-affirming treatments on cancer risk has led to uncertainty of how best to support TGD patients, and inequity in standards of care. To address this gap, the UK Cancer Genetics Group and Central & South Genomic Medicine Service Alliance facilitated a 2-day meeting to develop national consensus to support the management of TGD patients with inherited cancer risks. Key stakeholders from a broad range of clinical specialties, patients advocates, and those with lived experience discussed and voted on recommendations for best practice. The consensus was reached on topics including family history questionnaires, pedigrees, clinical information, breast tissue management, gynaecological and prostate management, patient pathways, and education. Further work is required to reach consensus on the breast screening recommendations for TGD patients assigned female at birth who have had masculinising chest surgery. Here we present a summary of the processes used to reach consensus, and the recommendations from this meeting.
The amino-acid stress sensing eIF2α kinase GCN2 is a survival biomarker for malignant mesothelioma
Authors: Gold Lyssa T. , Bray Susan E. , Kernohan Neil M. , Henderson Nina , Nowicki Maisie , Masson Glenn R.
Published: June 2023

Background

Malignant mesothelioma is a tumour that is strongly associated with a history of asbestos exposure, and which derives from mesothelial cells that line the serous cavities of the body. The tumour most commonly arises in the pleural cavity, but can also arise in the pericardium, peritoneum, and tunica vaginalis. At present the lesion has a very poor prognosis and is an incurable form of cancer with median survival times of up to 19 months being quoted for some histological subtypes. A large proportion of mesotheliomas have been shown to be arginine auxotrophic, leading to new research for therapeutics which might exploit this potential vulnerability.

Methods

We measured the levels of General Control Non-derepressible 2 (GCN2) protein in malignant mesothelioma tumour samples and determined whether these levels correlate with clinical outcomes.

Results

We observed that the expression levels of GCN2 correlated with patient survival and was an independent prognostic variable in pairwise comparisons with all available clinical data.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that GCN2 levels provides prognostic information and may allow for stratification of care pathways. It may suggest that targeting GCN2 is a viable strategy for mesothelioma therapy development.
Poly(triazine-co-pyrrole)-based conjugated microporous polymers for carbon dioxide capture
Authors: Amaraseela Dushan Suranga , Sarih Norazilawati Muhamad , Habibu Shehu
Published: June 2023

Enhancing CO2capture through conjugated microporous polymers.
Sensitive detection of extracellular hydrogen peroxide using plasmon-enhanced electrochemical activity on Pd-tipped Au nanobipyramids
Authors: Jiang Wenli , Sun Die , Cai Chenxin , Zhang Hui
Published: June 2023

A plasmon-enhanced electrochemical sensor based on Pd-tipped Au nanobipyramids (PTA NBPs) has been developed to the detection of H2O2 from cancer cells.
Effect of the degree of polymerization and water content on the thermal transport phenomena in PEGDA hydrogel: a molecular-dynamics-based study
Authors: Kumar Raju , Parashar Avinash
Published: June 2023

This work reveals that the thermal conductivity of the PEGDA hydrogel is enhanced with the increase in water content and approaches the value of the thermal conductivity of water at 85% water content in the hydrogel.
The rational design of high-performance graphene-based single-atom electrocatalysts for the ORR using machine learning
Authors: Chen Ziqiang , Qi Hexiang , Wang Haohao , Yue Caiwei , Liu Yangqiu , Yang Zuoyin , Pu Min , Lei Ming
Published: June 2023

Two descriptors valence electron correction VEc and degree of construction differences DC were proposed to improve the machine learning prediction accuracy of single-atom graphene-based systems (ZZ/ZA-MNxCy).
Diffusion-driven rotation in cholesteric liquid crystals studied using molecular dynamics simulation of a mixture of the Gay–Berne fluid and the Lennard-Jones fluid
Authors: Sarman Sten , Laaksonen Aatto
Published: June 2023

Diffusion-driven rotation in cholesteric liquid crystals has been studied using molecular dynamics simulation.
Structural insights on ionizable Dlin-MC3-DMA lipids in DOPC layers by combining accurate atomistic force fields, molecular dynamics simulations and neutron reflectivity
Authors: Ibrahim Mohd , Gilbert Jennifer , Heinz Marcel , Nylander Tommy , Schwierz Nadine
Published: June 2023

Force fields for Dlin-MC3-DMA lipids for molecular dynamics simulations validated by structural insights from neutron reflectivity experiments.
Alkyltin fluorides as alkylating reagent in aminoalkylation of maleimides
Authors: Wang Jingjing , Zhao Lin , Zhang Yafei , Zheng Peisen , Zou Peng , Wu Ge
Published: June 2023

Alkyltin fluoride is a frequently used electrophilic stannylation reagent via the cleavage of the Sn–F bond in traditional organic synthetic chemistry.
Bifunctional electroreduction catalysts of NiFe alloy on N-doped carbon toward industrial-level CO2conversion powered by Zn–air batteries
Authors: Wu Songjiang , Chen Haiyan , Jia Chunguang , Liao Li , Chen Kai , Ci Suqin , Xu Qiuhua , Wen Zhenhai
Published: June 2023

A bifunctional electrocatalyst, comprising NiFe alloy on N-doped carbon, was prepared for an integrated electrochemical device capable of implementing CO2conversion. This device is powered by a homemade Zn–air battery.
C(sp3)–H fluorosulfonylvinylation/aza-Michael addition approach to FSO2-functionalized tetrahydropyridines
Authors: Shi Shuai , Zhao Xueyan , Chen Dengfeng , Luo Jinyue , Liao Saihu , Huang Shenlin
Published: June 2023

We have developed an efficient approach for the synthesis of FSO2-functionalized tetrahydropyridines from propargyl alcohols, FSO2Cl, and anilines.
Facile preparation of high performance GO/Mn3O4/PVDF composite membranes with intercalation of manganese oxide nanowires
Authors: Runlin Han , Chaoyue Wang , Congcong Bi , Hanli Wang
Published: June 2023

Functional layer of GO/PVDF composite membrane was adjusted by nanometer Mn3O4 intercalation. The composite membrane showed extremely high flux and selectivity.
Chiral spirocyclic phosphoric acid-catalyzed enantioselective synthesis of heterotriarylmethanes bearing an amino acid moiety
Authors: Jiaping Jin , Woldegiorgis Alemayehu Gashaw , Lin Xufeng
Published: June 2023

Chiral spirocyclic phosphoric acid-catalyzed enantioselective synthesis of heterotriarylmethanes bearing an amino acid moiety has been developed.
Bicomponent CuO/NiCo2O4 nanocomposites for the dehydrogenation of ammonia borane and the tandem hydrogenation of halogenated nitroaromatics
Authors: Yang Xusheng , Li Ping , Wu Jiahao , Zhou Le , Xu Bin , Zhang Xiaobin , Liu Xiaoqiang , Pan Pingchuan , Jiang Weidong
Published: June 2023

The bicomponent CuO/NiCo2O4 nano-catalyst exhibited highly efficient reactivities towards both the dehydrogenation of ammonia borane and tandem hydrogenation of chloro- or bromo-substituted nitrobenzenes except iodonitrobenzenes.
A Pd-catalyzed highly selective three-component protocol for trisubstituted allenes
Authors: Li Can , Zhou Zhengnan , Ma Shengming
Published: June 2023

A novel three-component protocol to synthesize trisubstituted allenes from 2-alkynyl-1,4-diol dicarbonate with organoboronic acid and malonate has been developed.
Nanoelectrochemistry in electrochemical phase transition reactions
Authors: Mondaca-Medina Elías , García-Carrillo Roberto , Lee Hyein , Wang Yufei , Zhang He , Ren Hang
Published: June 2023

Nanoelectrochemistry methods can provide new insights into electrochemical nucleation processes, including the formation of nanoparticles and nanobubbles.
Metal–organic framework (MOF) hybridized gold nanoparticles as a bifunctional nanozyme for glucose sensing
Authors: Tong Pei-Hong , Wang Jing-Jing , Hu Xi-Le , James Tony D. , He Xiao-Peng
Published: June 2023

Inspired by natural enzymes that possess multiple catalytic activities, here we develop a bifunctional metal–organic frame-work (MOF) for biosensing applications.
Water-repelling behavior of the 1-D hematite nano-network
Authors: Patra Shyamapada , Chatterjee Sriparna , Das Pritam , Chatterjee Shyamal
Published: June 2023

Hematite is an attractive material used as electron transport layer in perovskite-based solar cells.
Droplet-on-chip electro-spectroscopy detects the ultra-short relaxation time of a dilute polymer solution
Authors: Roy Rahul , Quintero Juan S. Marin , Lakkaraju Rajaram , Waghmare Prashant R. , Chakraborty Suman
Published: June 2023

We report an electrode-embedded on-chip platform technology for the precise determination of ultra-short (of the order of a few nanoseconds) relaxation times of dilute polymer solutions, by deploying time-alternating electrical voltages.
In situ fabrication of a NiO nanoparticles/single-layered MXene nanosheet Schottky heterojunction toward sensing xylene and formaldehyde
Authors: Song Xueying , Gu Kuikun , Zhang Qinwei , Jin Linhu , He Chunfeng , Zhang Mingzhe
Published: June 2023

A NiO nanoparticle decorated single layered MXene nanosheet based gas sensor shows excellent dual selectivity for detecting xylene and formaldehyde.
A stable physisorbed layer of packed capture antibodies for high-performance sensing applications
Authors: Sarcina Lucia , Scandurra Cecilia , Di Franco Cinzia , Caputo Mariapia , Catacchio Michele , Bollella Paolo , Scamarcio Gaetano , Macchia Eleonora , Torsi Luisa
Published: June 2023

The uniformity and long-term stability of physisorbed antibodies against SARS-CoV-2-Spike1 at a solid interface are addressed. High-performance sensing is accomplished, outmatching the analytical performance achieved with the chemical bonding of capture antibodies.
Differences Between Self-Reported and Objectively Measured Hearing Loss at Age 61–63 Years: The Newcastle Thousand Families Birth Cohort
Authors: Iskakova Balnur , Forster Lara N. , Mann Kay D. , Brown Morven , Slack Emma L. , Rees Adrian , Pearce Mark S.
Published: June 2023

Purpose:

Hearing loss is most prevalent among older adults, yet underestimated by patients, clinicians, and research communities. This study aimed to assess the accuracy of self-reported hearing difficulties among a group of adults aged 61–63 years, against audiometric measures.

Method:

The analysis used a sample (
N
= 346) of the Newcastle Thousand Families Study birth cohort. Data from audiological examinations and self-reported hearing difficulties were used to compare subjective and objective hearing. Hearing aid use was also assessed.

Results:

Over 40% of the participants had some level of hearing loss (
n
= 155, 44.8%), and 31% (
n
= 133) of these reported having hearing problems during subjective assessment. Only 18 (10%) of those with objectively measured hearing loss reported using hearing aids.

Conclusions:

There was an inconsistency between measured and self-perceived hearing loss among adults aged 61–63 years in this cohort. The small number of hearing aid users in the cohort is a concern, in that people in this age group appear not to be getting the help they need. The data also add to the research evidence that people at this age underestimate their hearing loss.
Reported Barriers to Augmentative and Alternative Communication Service Delivery and Learning Preferences Among Speech-Language Pathologists
Authors: Gohsman Meredith K. , Johnson Rachel K.
Published: June 2023

Purpose:

Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) report extensive barriers to delivering augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) services, including the knowledge and skills necessary for AAC service delivery. Although nearly all graduate programs report the inclusion of preservice training for SLPs to provide AAC services, existing research on SLPs' characteristics of AAC service provision does not reflect these changes. This study aimed to identify current AAC service delivery characteristics, barriers, and learning preferences reported by SLPs.

Method:

A survey invitation was distributed to SLPs with American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) Certificate of Clinical Competence through social media and the ASHA Community discussion groups.

Results:

Participants were 530 SLPs who predominantly identified as general practice SLPs. Participants reported 1%–25% of their weekly patient caseload has AAC needs for communication or receives AAC intervention. SLPs reported feeling at least “knowledgeable” in more than half of the targeted competency areas. The reported primary barriers to AAC service provision are knowledge, caseload, and time. Preferences for topic, format, and frequency and duration for AAC-related continuing education were highly variable among SLPs.

Conclusions:

SLPs' barriers to AAC service delivery are consistent with research from the last 15 years, revealing a lack of systematic, organizational, and informational mechanisms to support SLPs as vital members of the AAC team. Those involved in post-service instruction and training must consider the training needs of SLPs with varying competence and their experience with AAC modalities, clinical practice backgrounds, and learning preferences. AAC-related training and continuing education must reflect SLP's daily practice, learning needs, and preferences.

Supplemental Material:

https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.23503809
Big Words for Little Kids: Rare Vocabulary Use by Preschool Children
Authors: Kelley Elizabeth Spencer , Poholik Olivia
Published: June 2023

Purpose:

This study presents a preliminary examination of rare vocabulary use by preschool children using a recently developed tool called the Wordlist for Expressive Rare Vocabulary Evaluation (WERVE).

Method:

The WERVE was used to identify rare vocabulary words language samples of 74 preschool children (
M
age
= 56 months). We examined the relations among rare vocabulary use, performance on norm-referenced measures of single-word vocabulary, and language sample measures of language complexity and lexical diversity.

Results:

Rare vocabulary use was significantly, positively correlated with standard scores on norm-referenced vocabulary measures and with language complexity and lexical diversity in language samples. Children with higher vocabulary scores used significantly more rare vocabulary than children with lower vocabulary scores.

Conclusions:

The WERVE shows some promise for providing information about the rare vocabulary use of preschool children. Findings from this preliminary study indicate that further research on rare vocabulary use is warranted.

Supplemental Material:

https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.23518845
Examining Therapy Duration in Adults With Voice Disorders
Authors: Fujiki Robert Brinton , Thibeault Susan L.
Published: June 2023

Purpose:

This study examined the number of voice therapy sessions and the number of weeks in treatment to achieve desired voice outcomes in adults with voice disorders. Factors that may predict therapy duration were examined, as was the percentage of patients returning to the clinic for additional voice therapy after initial discharge.

Method:

An observational cohort design was utilized. Data from 558 patients were extracted from the University of Wisconsin–Madison Voice and Swallow Outcomes Database. Patients diagnosed with muscle tension dysphonia, vocal fold paralysis, benign vocal fold lesions, laryngospasm/irritable larynx, and presbyphonia were examined. Patient demographics, auditory-perceptual assessments, acoustics, aerodynamics, videostroboscopy ratings, self-reported scales, and medical comorbidities were collected.

Results:

Patients required an average of 5.32 (SD= 3.43) sessions of voice therapy before voice outcomes were sufficiently improved for discharge. Average number of sessions ranged from 4.3 for presbyphonia to 6.7 for benign vocal fold lesions. Baseline overall Grade Roughness Breathiness Asthenia and Strain rating (p< .001), Dysphonia Severity Index (p< .001), Voice Handicap Index score (p< .01), age (p= .006), and occupational voice user status (p< .001) significantly predicted the number of therapy sessions required. Overall, 14.5% of patients returned for additional voice therapy following an initial discharge from treatment.

Conclusions:

Findings inform our understanding of how many sessions patients with voice disorders require to achieve desired voice outcomes. Additional research is needed to optimize the efficacy of voice treatment and determine how recurrence of dysphonia might best be prevented.