bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence and correlates of high‐dose opioid use among survivors of head and neck cancer
Authors: Nugent Shannon M. , Slatore Christopher G. , Winchell Kara , Handley Robert , Clayburgh Daniel , Chandra Ravi , Hooker Elizabeth R. , Knight Sara J. , Morasco Benjamin J.
Published: June 2023

Background

We characterized prescription opioid medication use up to 2 years following the head and neck cancer (HNC) diagnosis and examined associations with moderate or high daily opioid prescription dose.

Methods

Using administrative data from Veterans Health Administration, we conducted a retrospective cohort analysis of 5522 Veterans treated for cancers of the upper aerodigestive tract between 2012 and 2019. Data included cancer diagnosis and treatments, pain severity, prescription opioid characteristics, demographics, and other clinical factors.

Results

Two years post‐HNC, 7.8% (n = 428) were receiving moderate or high‐dose opioid therapy. Patients with at least moderate pain (18%, n = 996) had 2.48 times higher odds (95% CI = 1.94–3.09, p < 0.001) to be prescribed a moderate opioid dose or higher at 2 years post diagnosis.

Conclusions

Survivors of HNC with at least moderate pain were at elevated risk of continued use of moderate and high dose opioids.
Multiple memory systems for efficient temporal order memory
Authors: Jafarpour Anna , Lin Jack J. , Knight Robert T. , Buffalo Elizabeth A.
Published: June 2023

We report distinct contributions of multiple memory systems to the retrieval of the temporal order of events. The neural dynamics related to the retrieval of movie scenes revealed that recalling the temporal order of close events elevates hippocampal theta power, like that observed for recalling close spatial relationships. In contrast, recalling far events increases beta power in the orbitofrontal cortex, reflecting recall based on the overall movie structure.
Go with the flow: An experimental analysis with tubing alternative with irrigation
Authors: Hyland Scott S. , DeGenova Daniel T. , Taylor Benjamin C. , Scheschuk Joseph P.
Published: June 2023

Background and Aims

Literature regarding alternative tubing for fluid delivery in irrigation and debridement procedures is lacking. The purpose of this study was to compare three different apparatuses with varying quantities of irrigation fluid to assess efficiency of administration and evaluate overall time for fluid administration.

Methods

This model was designed to compare available methods of gravity irrigation used in practice. Fluid flow time was measured for three types of tubing: single‐lumen cystoscopy tubing, Y‐type double‐lumen cystoscopy tubing, and nonconductive suction tubing. Irrigation times were assessed for varying volumes of 3, 6, and 9 L to investigate the relationship between bag changes and irrigation time. Bag changes were not conducted for the 3 L trial, but were for 6 and 9 L trials. Dimensions of cystoscopy tubing consisted of 4.95 mm internal diameter and 2.1 m length in both single‐lumen and Y‐type double‐lumen apparatus. Nonconduction suction tubing dimensions were 6.0 mm internal diameter and standard 3.7 m in length.

Results

The mean flow time for suction tubing was significantly faster than the cystoscopy tubing for the 3 and 9 L trials (p < 0.001). At 6 L, flow time for the suction tubing and the double lumen cystoscopy tubing were similar, 264 versus 260 s, respectively. At 9 L, the mean flow time for the suction tubing was 80 s faster (410 vs. 491 s) compared with single‐lumen cystoscopy and was nearly 30 s faster compared with Y‐type cystoscopy tubing.

Conclusion

The results of this study provide insight into a faster, widely available, and cost‐efficient alternative to commonly used cystoscopy tubing.
Factors influencing mobile banking adoption in India: The role of government support as a mediator
Authors: Saxena Noopur , Gera Navneet , Taneja Mayur
Published: June 2023

This study aims to objectively examine the factors influencing mobile banking adoption in India. There has been a model put forth that is founded on the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology and technology readiness. Data was collected from 536 mobile banking users. The primary determinants influencing mobile banking adoption were assessed using structural equation modeling. The study's conclusions indicate that the most significant predictors of behavioral intention to use mobile banking are factors such as performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence, optimism, and innovativeness. The relationship between users' behavioral intentions and adoption of mobile banking is partially mediated by government support. With the help of this study, mobile banking service providers in urban India will be better able to develop new services or modify current ones to boost the adoption of mobile banking.
US Departments of Pharmacy practice single terminal‐degree tenure‐track scholarly activity
Authors: Chao Darin , Zhu Julia , Tak Casey , Kim Kibum , Henkels Rebecca , Munger Mark A.
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Bibliometric analysis of publications is a valuable tool for quantification of academic productivity and impact. United States (US) Departments of pharmacy practice scholarship by tenure‐track (DPP‐TT) faculty is vital for future evolution of the field.

Objectives

To quantify journal and faculty metrics based on scholarly activity among US DPP‐TT faculty over a 10‐year period.

Methods

A search of PubMed was performed of single terminal‐degree DPP‐TT faculty from January 01, 2010 to 31 December, 2019. DPP‐TT faculty housed in DPP were determined through online published faculty rosters in American Association Colleges of Pharmacy rosters or college/school internet sites. For each DPP‐TT faculty publication, the journal name, journal impact factor (JIF), and number of citations were collected. DPP‐TT faculty members' Hirsch index (h‐index) and National Institutes of Health iCite weighted relative citation ratio (RCR) value were determined. Descriptive statistics and analysis of variance were used to compare data across demographic strata.

Results

One hundred and thirty‐seven institutions employed 1805 single terminal‐degree pharmacy practice faculty that produced 12 670 (7.0 ± 16.3/10 years/faculty member) publications. The number of citations/publications was (mean ± standard deviation [SD]) 24.7 ± 80.8 cited most frequently in medicine, pharmacy education, and drug therapy journals with a JIF of 4.7 ± 11.5. Individual faculty members' h‐index was 6.5 ± 8.9 with a mean iCite weighted RCR of 22.1 ± 65.3. Individual metrics increased with academic rank progression (p < 0.0001).

Conclusion

These national single terminal‐degree DPP‐TT faculty metrics are similar to other healthcare professions, including publishing in high‐quality medicine, pharmacy education, and drug therapy journals.
Blockade of P2X7 receptor‐mediated purinergic signaling with A438079 protects against LPS‐induced liver injury in rats
Authors: Kara Adem , Ozkanlar Seckin
Published: June 2023

The study aimed to investigate the hepatoprotective effects of purinergic receptor (P2X7R) antagonism by A438079 in liver damage. An experimental model of inflammation was performed by intraperitoneal (i.p.) lipopolysaccharide (LPS) administration in the rat. The groups were Control, A438079, dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), LPS, LPS + DMSO, and LPS + A438079. Following LPS (8 mg/kg) injection, A438079 (15 mg/kg) and DMSO (0.1 mL) were administrated (i.p) in the study groups. The blood and the liver tissues were removed for histological, biochemical, and western blot analyses. In the biochemical analysis, serum aspartate transaminase (AST) and alanine transaminase (ALT) concentrations, the tissue glutathione (GSH) level, and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity dramatically decreased and malondialdehyde (MDA) level increased in the LPS and LPS + DMSO groups compared to the LPS + A438079 group. In the histological analysis, severe sinusoidal dilatation, necrotic hepatocytes, and inflammatory cell infiltration were observed in the LPS and LPS + DMSO groups while these effects were lessened in the LPS + A438079 group. The relative protein expression levels of P2X7R, Nf‐kB‐p65, IL‐6, and Caspase‐3 were significantly higher in the LPS and the LPS + DMSO groups than in the LPS + A438079 group. On the other hand, these protein expressions were considerably lower in the Control, A438079, and DMSO groups compared to the LPS + A438079 group. In addition, Bcl‐2 protein expression was significantly lower in the LPS and the LPS + DMSO groups and higher in the LPS + A438079 group compared to the other groups. The protective effect of A438079 against LPS‐induced hepatic inflammation may be related to P2X7R antagonism, inflammatory mediators, and apoptotic cell death.
Detection of triclosan using 2‐domain hemoglobin promoter of Daphnia magna
Authors: Yu Jaeyoung , Shin Hwa‐Yoon , Vu Le Quynh Anh , Kim Yang‐Hoon , Min Jiho
Published: June 2023

Triclosan has been widely used as an antimicrobial agent. However, triclosan was found to cause toxicity, including muscle contraction disturbances, carcinogenesis, and endocrine disorders. In addition, it was found to affect central nervous system function adversely and even have ototoxic effects. Conventional methods for detecting such triclosan can be performed easily. However, the conventional detection methods are inadequate in precisely reflecting the impact of toxic substances on stressed organisms. Therefore, a test model for the toxic environment at the molecular level through the organism is needed. From that point of view, Daphnia magna is being used as a ubiquitous model. D. magna has the advantages of easy cultivation, a short lifespan and high reproductive capacity, and high sensitivity to chemicals. Therefore, the protein expression pattern of D. magna that appear in response to chemicals can be utilized as biomarkers for detecting specific chemicals. In this study, we characterized the proteomic response of D. magna following triclosan exposure via two‐dimensional (2D) gel electrophoresis. As a result, we confirmed that triclosan exposure completely suppressed D. magna 2‐domain hemoglobin protein and evaluated this protein as a biomarker for triclosan detection. We constructed the HeLa cells in which the GFP gene was controlled by D. magna 2‐domain hemoglobin promoter, which under normal conditions, expressed GFP, but upon triclosan exposure, suppressed GFP expression. Consequently, we consider that the HeLa cells containing the pBABE‐HBF3‐GFP plasmid developed in this study can be used as novel biomarkers for triclosan detection.
The validity of a therapeutic invigoration task in avolitional schizophrenia outpatients
Authors: Dlagnekova Antonia , Van Staden Werdie
Published: June 2023

Background and Objectives

Avolition is associated with much morbidity and functional impairment in schizophrenia patients. Vigor may be taken as, in part, the inverse of avolition, but it has not been investigated as a therapeutic pursuit before. To this end, a therapeutic invigoration task was developed drawing on cognitive‐behavioral and guided imagery therapies. This study investigated the validity and reliability of a therapeutic invigoration task in avolitional residual phase schizophrenia outpatients.

Methods

In a proof‐of‐concept quasi‐experimental one‐group sequentially repeated pretest/posttest study design, patients (n = 76) participated in a structured invigoration task that was repeated after 1 month (n = 70).

Results

Patients' vigor during the preceding 7 days measured on the Vigor Assessment Scale increased highly significantly in anticipation of the subsequent 7 days on both occasions with respectively very large (Cohen's δ with Hedges' correction [δ] = 1.46) and large (δ = 1.04) effect sizes. The anticipated vigor after the first occasion was partially consummated during the subsequent month in that vigor during the 7 days preceding the second occasion was lower than participants had anticipated but still significantly higher than at baseline (p < 0.001; δ = 0.70). Repeating the task a month later, together with homework, had a cumulative effect as indicated by a very large effect size (δ = 1.61).

Conclusion

Results suggest that the invigoration task did what it was supposed do, and did so consistently, in patients with avolitional residual schizophrenia. These results warrant a subsequent randomized controlled trial to establish the efficacy of the invigoration task.
Phosphorus recovery from hydrothermal carbonization of organic waste: a review
Authors: Khalaf Nidal , Leahy J.J. , Kwapinski Witold
Published: June 2023

Background

This review sheds light on the topic of phosphorus (P) recovery from hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) of organic waste. The paper focuses on the rising need for securing alternative P sources for the increasing demand, in addition to the development of HTC as a thermochemical technique for waste valorization.

Results

This article studies the definition of P‐recovery from HTC, while introducing the notion of availability, which is a significant factor for studying the efficiency of P‐recovery. A brief comparison between different treatment techniques for P‐recovery from waste streams is presented, and the advantages of HTC are highlighted among different thermochemical techniques. Furthermore, the mechanisms of P‐transformation during HTC reactions are studied, and the effect of various parameters on P‐destination and recovery is emphasized. Finally, applications of P‐recovery from HTC products on the laboratory and industrial scales are studied to assess the feasibility of the application.

Conclusion

In short, the paper offers a detailed insight into the definition, mechanism, and potential feasibility of P‐recovery from HTC of organic wastes within the scopes of resource management, waste valorization, and fertilizer production. Even though HTC for P‐recovery from organic waste has been applied on laboratory and industrial scales, several challenges persist towards optimizing this process. The paper concludes that adopting P‐availability as a criterion for efficiency is necessary to optimize HTC conditions for P‐recovery. Further studies on P‐transformation during later‐stage reactions of HTC are recommended, as well. © 2023 The Authors. Journal of Chemical Technology and Biotechnology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Dietary yolk supplements and rate of yolk deposition do not influence sex ratios in Japanese Quail
Authors: Navara Kristen J. , Mendonça Mary T. , Gardner Steven
Published: June 2023

Birds appear to have the ability to bias offspring sex ratios in response to environmental and social conditions. The mechanisms responsible remain unknown, however one previous study indicated a link between rates of ovarian follicle growth and the sexes of resulting eggs. This could indicate that either follicles destined to retain male or female follicles grow at different rates, or the rate of ovarian follicle growth determines the sex chromosome that will be retained to influence the sex of the resulting offspring. We tested for evidence of both possibilities by staining yolk rings that are indicative of daily growth. First, we tested for a correlation between the number of yolk rings and the sexes of the resulting germinal discs collected from each egg, and second, we tested whether experimentally decreasing follicle growth rates with a dietary yolk supplement impacts the sexes of the resulting germinal discs. There was no significant correlation between the number of yolk rings and the sexes of the resulting embryos, and decreasing follicle growth rates did not impact sexes of resulting germinal discs. These results indicate that offspring sex is not related to the rate of ovarian follicle growth in quail.
The neglected object: A history of the concept of dreams in Polish psychiatry and psychology in the interwar period, 1918–1939
Authors: Kornaj Jan
Published: June 2023

The development of the concept of dreams in interwar Polish psychiatry and psychology was influenced by Western European concepts as well as by sociocultural factors of the newly independent state. Few Polish psychiatrists addressed the subject of dreams. They were influenced mainly by Sigmund Freud's psychoanalytic concept of dreams, but also by Alferd Adler's, Carl Gustav Jung's, and Wilhelm Stekel's ideas. Nevertheless, they approached psychoanalysis critically. The most comprehensive concept of dreams in Polish psychiatry was oneiroanalysis by Tadeusz Bilikiewicz. Oneironalysis was a method of dream analysis based on psychoanalysis but it rejected the psychoanalytic method of free associations and challenged psychoanalytic approaches to the interpretation of dream symbols. Polish psychologists were even less interested in dreams than psychiatrists. Problems with dreams, the most elaborate psychological work by Stefan Szuman consisted of an outline of epistemological problems with general theories of dreams and a harsh critique of psychoanalysis. The neglect of the subject of dreams in Polish psychiatric society can be seen as connected with the social and professional reception of psychoanalysis in Poland. Psychoanalysis was met with opposition from conservative scholars and publicists presenting nationalistic and anti‐Semitic attitudes. It was also criticized by the biologically oriented majority of psychiatrists of the Polish Psychiatric Association. In the case of psychology, the most influential Polish psychological school, Lvov‐Warsaw School, promoted Brentanian intentionalism, introspection, and psychology of consciousness, therefore, leading to psychologists' reluctance to explore unconscious states like dreams.
Interdecadal variability of summer extreme rainfall in the Huai River basin of China associated with the Asian‐Pacific Oscillation
Authors: Liao Rongwei , Zhao Ping
Published: June 2023

Using the rainfall data at rain gauge stations in China and the European Center for Medium‐Range Weather Forecast (ECMWF) reanalysis, the daily Asian‐Pacific Oscillation (APO) index, a tropospheric temperature thermal contrast between Asia and the North Pacific, is constructed to investigate an interdecadal relationship between summer (June–July) APO and rainfall in the Huai River basin (HRB) of central‐eastern China. The daily APO index averaged over June 22–July 12 shows an interdecadal shift around the late 1990s. This shift is characterized by a negative phase of the daily APO index during 1987–1996 and a subsequent positive phase during 1997–2006. Accompanying this shift, the occurrence frequency, intensity and amount of extreme rainfall events remarkably increase in the HRB region. The increased rainfall can be reasonably explained by the atmospheric circulation anomalies. Corresponding to the decadal change in the summer daily APO from the negative phase to the positive one, the subtropical high pressure over the western North Pacific moves toward the north and easterly wind anomalies in the middle and lower layers of the troposphere prevail over extratropical East Asia, which strengthens water vapour convergence, the instability of atmospheric stratification and upward motion anomalies in the HRB region.
Management of Enlarging Tracheoesophageal Fistula with Voice Prosthesis in Laryngectomized Patients
Authors: Saeedi Arman , Strum David P. , Mir Ghayoour , Chow Michael S. , Bhatt Nupur , Jacobson Adam S.
Published: June 2023

Management of Enlarging tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF) with Voice Prosthesis in Laryngectomized Head and Neck Cancer Patients.

Objectives

An enlarging TEF following voice prosthesis placement impacts patient quality of life, risks airway compromise, and can lead to aspiration pneumonia. Pharyngoesophageal strictures have previously been reported to be associated with TEF enlargement and leakage. We describe a series of patients with enlarging TEFs after Tracheoesophageal puncture (TEP) for voice prosthesis who required pharyngoesophageal reconstruction.

Methods

Retrospective case series of laryngectomized H&N cancer patients with primary or secondary TEP who underwent surgical management for enlarging TEF site between 6/2016–11/2022.

Results

Eight patients were included. The mean age was 62.8 years old. Seven patients had a history of hypothyroidism. Of seven with prior H&N radiation history, two had both historical and adjuvant radiation. Two of the eight TEPs were placed secondarily. Mean time from TEP to enlarging TEF diagnosis was 891.3 days. Radial forearm‐free flaps were used in five patients. Six had stenosis proximal to the TEF whereas one had distal stenosis and one had no evidence of stenosis. Mean length of stay was 12.3 days. Mean follow‐up was 400.4 days. Two required a second free flap for persistent fistula.

Conclusion

Surgical reconstruction of enlarging TEFs due to TEP/VP placement is effective in combination with addressing underlying pharyngeal/esophageal stenosis contributing to TEF enlargement and leakage. Radial forearm‐free flaps have the additional benefit of a long vascular pedicle to access more distant and less‐irradiated recipient vessels. Many fistulae are resolved after the first flap reconstruction, but some may require subsequent reconstruction in case of failure.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 134:198–206, 2024
Do farmers' social networks aggravate cultivated land abandonment? A case study in Ganzhou, China
Authors: Chen Qianru , Wu Manyu , Xie Hualin , Lu Hua
Published: June 2023

To clarify the influence mechanism and action path of social networks on farmland abandonment, taking the hilly and mountainous areas of Ganzhou, China as the study area, this paper first explores the influence of farmers' social networks on abandonment; furthermore, a mediation effect model is introduced to test the inhibiting effect of farmland transfer on abandonment under the scenario of expanding farmers' social networks. The results show that the expansion of farmers' social networks directly aggravates farmland abandonment, but with the development of land transfer market, farmers' social networks help to reduce the transaction cost of farmland transfer, thus promoting land circulation and restraining abandonment. Considering the double‐edged effect of farmers' social networks on abandonment, this paper recommends that policies aimed at curbing abandonment should be channeled through local farmers‐based social networks, and encourage land transfer among farmers' relatives, friends, or neighbors, and so forth to reduce transaction cost in rural society.
Reflective Spin–Orbit Geometric Phase from Planar Isotropic Interface
Authors: Bouchal Petr , Bouchal Zdeněk
Published: June 2023

Manipulating angular momentum of light relies on the change of geometric phase in anisotropic nanostructures or optical interface phenomena. Spin–orbit interactions demonstrated in normal incidence at a planar isotropic interface are conditioned by Brewster reflection, limited to the light beam with a single radial frequency in the k‐space. This study demonstrates a geometric (Pancharatnam–Berry) phase that overcomes Brewster angle limitations providing high variability in the modulation of light reflected from a planar isotropic interface. The examined geometric phase stems from the reflection anisotropy imitating the structural anisotropy of photoaligned liquid crystals and photonic metasurfaces. Using a geometric‐phase modulation of tightly focused light reflected from a glass slab, three modes of spin to orbital angular momentum conversion are demonstrated. The discovered reflective spin–orbit interaction allows for design of a double‐helix focusing sensor to be used in microscopy imaging for precise depth measurements (accuracy 109 nm and precision 7 nm in the range of 8 µm). Experiments with a focused astigmatic beam prove that a glass plate can perform very complex modulation of the geometric phase using illumination structuring. The results thus provide the foundation for the design of low‐cost geometric‐phase systems relying on the space‐variant reflection anisotropy.
Chatbot or human? The impact of online customer service on consumers' purchase intentions
Authors: Chen Shili , Li Xiaolin , Liu Kecheng , Wang Xuesong
Published: June 2023

Artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots and human employees have emerged as the dominant forms of online customer service. However, existing research rarely connects the service differences between them in terms of product type, ignoring the interactivity between the two. This study reveals the effect of matching customer service type (AI chatbot vs. human) to product type (search vs. experience) on consumers' purchase intentions through four experiments, revealing the psychological mechanism and boundary condition for the existence of this effect. It shows that (1) the match between customer service type and product type positively affects consumers' purchase intentions; (2) this matching effect is mediated by processing fluency and perceived service quality; and (3) the matching effect works only when consumers' demand certainty is low. These findings enrich the theoretical study of online customer service, and provide marketing insights for companies to improve the adoption of AI chatbots and human employees.
Fat‐Diets in Perinatal Stages Altered Nr3c2‐Mediated Ca2+ Currents in Mesenteric Arteries of Offspring Rats
Authors: Zheng Qiutong , Li Na , Zhang Yingying , Li Jingyang , Zhang Eryun , Xu Zhice
Published: June 2023

Scope

Perinatal high‐fat diets (PHF) can influence fetal/neonate development, resulting in cardiovascular pathogenesis, but precise mechanisms remain unclear. This study tests aldosterone receptor‐mediated Ca2+ influx and the underlying mechanisms influenced by PHF.

Methods and results

Maternal S.D. rats receive PHF during pregnancy and lactation periods. Their male offspring are fed normal diets after weaning for four months. Mesenteric arteries (MA) are for electrophysiological testing, Ca2+ imaging, target gene expression, and promotor methylation. PHF increases aldosterone receptor gene Nr3c2‐mediated Ca2+ currents in the smooth muscle cells (SMCs) of the MA via L‐type Ca2+ channels (LTCC) in the offspring. The increased expression of aldosterone‐receptors and LTCC are responsible for an activated Nr3c2‐LTCC pathway in the vasculature, eventually predisposes an increase of Ca2+ influx in the myocytes of resistance arteries. The inhibitor of aldosterone‐receptors suppresses the increased Ca2+ currents in the SMCs. Nr3c2 and LTCC are upregulated through the transcriptional mechanism in methylation, which can be reversed in the functional changes by methylation inhibitor 5AZA.

Conclusion

The results firstly demonstrate that aldosterone‐receptor activation can stimulate Ca2+ currents via LTCC in vascular myocytes, which can be altered by perinatal foods via epigenetic changes of DNA methylation in the promoters of Nr3c2 and LTCC.
A frequency‐ and polarization‐reconfigurable cross dipole antenna using liquid metal
Authors: Wang Xinhuai , Hu Jun Jie , Wang Lin Zhu , Wang Wen , Xu Yin
Published: June 2023

A frequency and polarization reconfigurable wideband cross‐dipole antenna is proposed. A /4 phase‐shifted ring structure is used to design a reconfigurable frequency and polarization wideband antenna, which is connected to the dipole arm with the liquid metal as a parasitic branch. The antenna consists of a pair of rectangular dipoles, a pair of curved phase‐shifted rings, and a square ring. Two mutually perpendicular rectangular dipole arms are connected by a phase‐shifted ring, which is printed on the upper and lower surfaces. The left‐hand circular polarization and right‐hand circular polarization can be switched by loading liquid metal at different positions of the antenna, and the frequency can be reconstructed by adjusting the length of liquid metal at corresponding positions. The total 3 dB axial ratio bandwidth are 41.27% (1.50–2.28 GHz) and 43.57% (1.49–2.32 GHz), and eight adjustable circularly polarized frequency bands can be obtained at the same time. To verify the proposed design, a reconfigurable antenna is fabricated and measured. The measured results are in good agreement with the simulated results.
Wide‐angle beam steering achieved by an array‐fed phase reconfigurable metasurface
Authors: Xi Qiangli , Li Yun , Li Xiaojun , Zhang Qian , Zhang Bin , Ran Lixin
Published: June 2023

In this letter, we propose and experimentally demonstrate a space‐fed beamforming approach capable of steering beams up to ±70° with a focal ratio (F/D) reduced to 0.27 and a scan loss remained 4 dB. It is implemented based on an mmWave phase reconfigurable metasurface, and an unconventional array‐fed architecture. By doing so, while the total profile of conventional space‐fed phased arrays can be significantly reduced, specifications such as scan range and scan loss can be simultaneously improved. Compared with conventional phased array systems, such specifications are unique, and can be used to realize low‐profile, cost‐effective, space‐fed phased arrays requiring ultrawide coverages at mmWave frequencies.
Effect of WeChat‐based continuous care intervention on the somatic function, depression, anxiety, social function and cognitive function for cancer patients: Meta‐analysis of 18 RCTs
Authors: Wang Zhuoxin , Deng Shanshan , Lv Hekai , Fan Yanyan , Zhang Li , Wang Fuzhi
Published: June 2023

Aim

This meta‐analysis systematically reviewed and identified the effects of WeChat‐based continuous care (WCC) interventions on various outcomes in cancer patients.

Design

Systematic review and meta‐analysis.

Methods

In this study, outcome measures included somatic function, anxiety, depression, social function, and cognitive function. The standardized mean differences and 95% CIs of pooled effect sizes were calculated using fixed‐ and random‐effects models. NFail‐safe and Begg's tests were performed to evaluate publication bias, and sensitivity analysis was performed to evaluate the robustness of the meta‐analysis results.

Results

The meta‐analysis included 18 RCTs of moderate quality. WCC interventions significantly improved somatic function, depression, anxiety, social function, and cognitive function in cancer patients. There was no significant publication bias, and the sensitivity analysis indicated robust results.

Patient or Public Contribution

WCC interventions improved depression, anxiety, social function, and cognitive function in cancer patients.
Item response theory analysis of the University Personality Inventory in medical students
Authors: Sugawara Norio , Yasui‐Furukori Norio , Sayama Masayuki , Shimoda Kazutaka
Published: June 2023

Aim

Young adulthood has been recognized as an important period for the transition from adolescence to adulthood. The University Personality Inventory (UPI), a mental health questionnaire for young adulthood, is widely used to screen university students in East Asia. However, dichotomous systems do not allow respondent choose responses other than two options on each symptom. This study employed item response theory (IRT) to examine the properties and performance of UPI items for mental health problems.

Methods

Japanese medical students (n = 1185) participated in this study, and the UPI was completed at the time of university admission. The two‐parameter IRT model was used to assess the measurement characteristics of the UPI items.

Results

Among all participants, 35.4% (420/1185) had total UPI score of 21 or more, and 10.6% (126/1185) indicated that they had the idea of wanting to die (item 25). For further IRT analysis, unidimensionality was confirmed by exploratory factor analysis, in which the primary factor accounted for 39.6% of the variance. The scale has sufficient discrimination power. In the test characteristic curves, the rising slopes of the lines were between θ 0 and 2.

Conclusion

The UPI is useful to assess mild or moderate mental health problems, while precision may decline among individuals experiencing both little and extremely high levels of stress. Our findings provide a basis for identifying people who have mental health concerns.
Over‐The‐Counter Hearing Aids: Trends in Information‐Seeking Behavior
Authors: Panth Neelima , Shah Rema , Judson Benjamin , Schwartz Nofrat
Published: June 2023

Recent Food and Drug Administration approval of over‐the‐counter (OTC) hearing aids has changed the policy landscape surrounding hearing‐assistive technology. Our objective was to characterize trends in information‐seeking behavior in the era of OTC hearing aids. Using Google Trends, we extracted the relative search volume (RSV) for hearing health‐related topics. The mean RSV in the 2 weeks preceding and following enactment of the FDA's OTC hearing aid ruling were compared using a paired samples t‐test. RSV for hearing‐related queries increased by 212.5% on the date of FDA approval. There was a 25.6% (p = .02) increase in mean RSV for “hearing aids” before and after the FDA ruling. The most popular searches focused on specific device brands and cost. States with more rural residents represented the highest proportion of queries. Understanding these trends is critical to ensure appropriate patient counseling and improve access to hearing assistive technology.
Reducing the dielectric loss of poly(aryl ether)s by grafting
Authors: Shi Longwei , Zhao Zheng , Zong Lishuai , Wang Jinyan , Jian Xigao
Published: June 2023

Limiting molecules' polarized motion effectively reduces the dielectric loss of materials. This article synthesized side chains with different lengths using p‐ethoxyphenol, p‐hydroxybenzoic acid, and long‐chain halohydrins through a two‐step process. These chains' movement was almost unaffected by the main chain of polymers, so they can fill up the free volume of polymers under certain conditions. 1,2‐dihydro‐4‐(4‐hydroxyphenyl)phthalazine‐1‐(2H)‐one(DHPZ), 4,4'‐Difluorophenyl sulfone(DFS), and 4,4‐Bis(4‐hydroxyphenyl) valeric acid(HPV) obtained three polymers with different carboxyl groups (10%, 30%, and 50%) through nucleophilic substitution. They were then grafted and treated with hot‐pressing. The introduction of side chains could reduce the free volume of polymers under hot‐pressing conditions, so further reducing the dielectric loss of materials. Polymer with the shortest and least (10%) side chains showed the most obvious dielectric loss tangent, the reduction rate of the film's dielectric loss tangent was 13.11% (at Tg + 15°C, while the non‐grafted one was only 3.69%) and 20.70% (at Tg + 80°C, while the non‐grafted one was only 8.35%), respectively. In addition, WXRD and DMA tests showed that films' intermolecular chain spacing (“d”) and Tg changed after the hot‐pressing process, respectively. The change law of both was consistent with that of dielectric loss tangent. Confirm that grafting high‐motility side chains can significantly reduce polymer's dielectric loss by enhancing the free volume reduction effect after hot‐pressing.
Effect of aspect ratio of synthetic Wollastonite nanofibers on mechanical, thermal and flammability properties of polyoxymethylene nanocomposites
Authors: Wong Joon Fatt , Chan Jia Xin , Hassan Azman , Mohamad Zurina , Hashim Shahrir , Abd Razak Jeefferie , Ching Yern Chee , Yunos Muhamad Zaini , Yahaya Ridwan , U. Gunathilake T. M. Sampath
Published: June 2023

Polyoxymethylene (POM) nanocomposites were reinforced with 1 phr of synthetic wollastonite nanofibers (SWN) to investigate the effect of the aspect ratio of SWN on the mechanical, thermal and flammability properties. The tensile strength, Young's modulus, and impact strength of POM nanocomposites demonstrated an increasing trend as the aspect ratio of SWN increased. POM nanocomposites incorporated SWN with an aspect ratio of about 20 (POM/SWN‐20) exhibited higher tensile strength (2%), Young's modulus (3%) and impact strength (50%) as compared to that of about 5 (POM/SWN‐5). A higher aspect ratio of SWN also contributed to the better thermal stability of POM nanocomposites, in which the initial degradation temperature of POM/SWN‐20 was about 6°C higher than POM/SWN‐5. Interestingly, SWN that possessed a lower aspect ratio performed better in flame retardancy, as indicated by the increase in the time to ignition and the decrease in the peak heat release rate. This present study demonstrates the relationship between the aspect ratio of filler (SWN) with the polymer matrix (POM), which is crucial in producing nanocomposites that have great potential in automotive applications.
Investigation of hepatic adverse events due to quetiapine by using the common data model
Authors: Ko SooJeong , Chang Se‐Hyun , Chung Yeon Woong , Seo Young‐Gyun , Kang Dong‐Yoon , Kim Kwangsoo , Chang Dong‐Jin , Choi In Young
Published: June 2023

Purpose

Quetiapine is a drug used to treat schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and major depressive disorder. However, it can cause mild or severe hepatic adverse events and rarely fatal liver damage. This study was aimed at investigating hepatic toxicity caused by quetiapine use by analyzing the information captured from hospital electronic health records by using the Observational Medical Outcomes Partnership common data model (CDM).

Methods

This was a retrospective observational study involving a nested case–control method. A CDM based on an electronic health record database from five hospitals between January 2009 and May 2020 was used. We analyzed the status of quetiapine use, adverse events, and hepatic impairment.

Results

The numbers of patients with non‐serious and severe hepatic adverse reactions were 2566 (5.05%) and 835 (1.64%) out of 50 766 patients, respectively. After adjusting for covariates, the odds ratio of hepatic adverse events was 2.35 (95% CI: 2.03–2.72), and the odds ratio of severe hepatic adverse events was 1.76 (95% CI: 1.16–2.66).

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that quetiapine should be cautiously used, and hepatic function should be monitored in patients using quetiapine because it can cause mild or severe hepatic adverse events, complications, and in rare cases, fatal liver damage.
Laser intensity and surface distribution identification at weld interface during laser transmission welding of thermoplastic polymers: A combined numerical inverse method and experimental temperature measurement approach
Authors: Le Anh‐Duc , Akué Asséko André Chateau , Nguyen Thi‐Ha‐Xuyen , Cosson Benoît
Published: June 2023

The determination of the laser intensity profile necessary to weld two thermoplastic parts is crucial for understanding and optimizing the laser welding process in polymers and composite materials. Traditional methods of measuring the laser beam intensity profile, such as laser beam profiling techniques, can be difficult to implement and expensive. In this paper, we present the development of a technique that combines a numerical inverse method with experimental temperature measurements to determinate the laser intensity distribution at the weld interface. This technique does not require specialized or expensive equipment and accounts for variations in laser beam intensity caused by different components and interfaces. The technique uses thermocouple sensors to measure interface temperatures during welding, and an analytical gaussian model to estimate the laser intensity distribution at the weld interface. The model is then used as input data in a numerical heat transfer model. The technique is validated through experimental investigations on transparent and absorbent Polylactic acid polymers.
Professional skills training in developing digital materials through augmented and virtual reality applications
Authors: Gokbulut Bayram , Durnali Mehmet
Published: June 2023

A good deal of research has stressed that teaching staff are expected to continuously improve their profession. However, we observed that there is a need for more practical‐based research investigating the practices being adopted by teaching staff. Therefore, the present research aimed to explore the effect of a 9‐day practical‐based training on faculty members' and teachers' levels of professional competence in developing digital materials through augmented and virtual reality applications. The study group consisted of 15 faculty members and 15 teachers. “Digital Material Development Competence Scale” was applied as pre‐ and posttests, and semi‐structured interview questions were employed to collect data. As a result, both the quantitative and qualitative data evidenced that the training increased both faculty members' and teachers' levels of supposed professional development significantly. Subsequently, the participants' views revealed that the following contributed to the development of their skills in developing digital materials, technology use, integrating their pedagogical knowledge into technological knowledge, and lifelong learning. They are (a) receiving training on the use of augmented and virtual reality applications; (b) practicing sample applications with these tools; (c) experiencing mutually collaborative, hands‐on, and interactive learning; (d) with the help of highly motivated and expert trainers; and (e) with efficient collaboration between faculty members and teachers. In closing, not only did we report and discuss the results in line with relevant professional development and lifelong learning theories, but we also presented research activities and results as concrete examples in the context of efficient learning for the professional development of teaching staff as adults.
2D BiSeI Nanosheets for Broadband Self‐Powered Photoelectrochemical Photodetector
Authors: Xu Lei , Yang Mengtong , Lu Qidong , Ren Yuxin , Chen Yi , Guo Jinjia , Cai Mingjie , Miao Xiao , Teng Feng , Fan Haibo , Zhang Chunmei , He Xuexia , Hu Peng
Published: June 2023

Broadband photodetectors are essential for the integrated design of next‐generation optical detector devices. Ternary 2D bismuth sulfide semiconductor (BiXI, X = S, Se, Te) is an ideal candidate for broadband photoelectric detection due to its narrow bandgap and excellent electrical transport performance. Here, BiSeI is grown by chemical vapor transport (CVT) method and used in photoelectrochemical (PEC) photodetection. The PEC‐type photodetector based on BiSeI nanosheets has a broadband detection ranging from 350 to 900 nm, displaying a high responsivity of 2.88 mA W−1, a high detectivity of 1.10 × 1010 Jones and a fast response time of 7/16 ms at a bias voltage of 0.5 V. Furthermore, the device also exhibits a negligible current density loss after three months, which indicates that it has good stability against air and moisture. In addition, the photodetector can work without bias potential, indicating that it is a good self‐powered device. The results demonstrate that BiSeI is a potential material in self‐powered PEC photodetector.
Time‐parallel integration and phase averaging for the nonlinear shallow‐water equations on the sphere
Authors: Yamazaki Hiroe , Cotter Colin J. , Wingate Beth A.
Published: June 2023

We describe a proof‐of‐concept development and application of a phase‐averaging technique to the nonlinear rotating shallow‐water equations on the sphere, discretised using compatible finite‐element methods. Phase averaging consists of averaging the nonlinearity over phase shifts in the exponential of the linear wave operator. Phase averaging aims to capture the slow dynamics in a solution that is smoother in time (in transformed variables), so that larger timesteps may be taken. We overcome the two key technical challenges that stand in the way of studying the phase averaging and advancing its implementation: (1) we have developed a stable matrix exponential specific to finite elements and (2) we have developed a parallel finite averaging procedure. Following recent studies, we consider finite‐width phase‐averaging windows, since the equations have a finite timescale separation. In our numerical implementation, the averaging integral is replaced by a Riemann sum, where each term can be evaluated in parallel. This creates an opportunity for parallelism in the timestepping method, which we use here to compute our solutions. Here, we focus on the stability and accuracy of the numerical solution. We confirm that there is an optimal averaging window, in agreement with theory. Critically, we observe that the combined time discretisation and averaging error is much smaller than the time discretisation error in a semi‐implicit method applied to the same spatial discretisation. An evaluation of the parallel aspects will follow in later work.
An active learning Kriging‐based multipoint sampling strategy for structural reliability analysis
Authors: Tian Zongrui , Zhi Pengpeng , Guan Yi , He Xinghua
Published: June 2023

In order to effectively and accurately assess the failure probability of mechanical structures, this paper proposes a multi‐point sampling active learning reliability analysis method called AKMP. First, a GA‐Halton sequence is introduced to make the initial samples well dispersed and homogeneous in the design space. Second, a new learning function FELF is constructed to efficiently update the Kriging model, which takes into account the relationship between the location of the sampling points and the performance fun. Then, a combination of NCC criterion and multipoint sampling strategy is proposed to further improve the convergence efficiency, which can effectively terminate the active learning process. Finally, numerical and engineering cases are tested to verify the application performance of the proposed AKMP. The results show that the method has superior performance in terms of both accuracy and failure probability efficiency, and can reduce the computational resources of the active learning process.
Manganese sources and rates impact plant Mn concentrations and soil Mn fractions
Authors: Montgomery Ashleigh , Herndon Elizabeth , Sams Carl , Jagadamma Sindhu
Published: June 2023

Manganese (Mn) is an essential micronutrient for all organisms. In plants, Mn plays a critical role in photosynthesis and as a structural component of enzymes. In soils, Mn exists as different fractions of varying availability to plants. Mn fertilizers can be used to increase Mn availability to plants but are easily converted from a plant‐available fraction (exchangeable Mn) to an unavailable fraction (Mn‐oxides). Little research has been done in agricultural settings on soil Mn fractions; thus, the objective of this experiment was to study the effect of Mn additions on soil Mn fractions and plant Mn concentration. A greenhouse experiment was conducted by growing soybean (Glycine max) treated with three Mn application rates (recommended or 1×, 10×, and 50×) of two sources (MnSO4 and Mn ethylenediamine tetraacetic acid [MnEDTA]). Soil Mn fractions (Mehlich‐1 extractable, exchangeable, organic‐bound, Mn‐oxide, residual) were quantified via sequential Mn extraction procedures. Bioavailability was evaluated by measuring soybean leaf Mn concentrations. Both fertilizer types increased available soil Mn fractions. Leaf Mn concentration increased with MnSO4 50× application at the V3 stage and decreased with MnEDTA addition at the V3 and R2 stages. Mn additions likely resulted in the conversion of Mn into unavailable fractions. This was amplified by higher application rates, where total Mn increased by 18.5%, but available Mn decreased by 4.3% relative to initial soil values. Thus, our study showed that adding Mn to soils does not necessarily increase plant‐available Mn.