bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Development and evaluation of a new intraoral voice assist device called the voice retriever
Authors: Yamada Taishi , Yamaguchi Kohei , Horike Ayane , Takahashi Kohei , Amornsuradech Sirinthip , Nakagawa Kazuharu , Yoshimi Kanako , Tohara Haruka 
Published: January 2024

AbstractObjectivePatients lose their voice after laryngectomy for laryngeal cancer or aspiration prevention surgery for severe dysphagia. To assist such patients, we developed and verified the utility of a novel vocalization method using a device termed the voice retriever (VR), in which the sound source is placed in the mouth.MethodsWe investigated the effectiveness of the VR in patients. The VR consists of a mouthpiece with a built‐in speaker and a dedicated application that serves as the sound source. We compared the speech intelligibility and naturalness in normal participants using VR and an electrolarynx (EL) for the first time as well as the voice‐related quality of life (V‐RQOL) in patients with dysphonia before and after using the VR.ResultsThe VR produced significantly higher 100‐syllable test scores as well as fluency, amount of additional noise, intonation, intelligibility and overall long reading test ratings in the first‐time VR and EL users. Furthermore, the VR use significantly improved the V‐RQOL of participants with dysphonia.ConclusionCompared to EL, VR allows more effective speech improvement in participants without experience using an alternative vocalization method and improves the V‐RQOL in patients with dysphonia.Level of EvidenceStep 4.
Achieving Less Than 100 ppb Total Metal Ion Concentration in ESCAP Resins Synthesized by Atom Transfer Radical Polymerization
Authors: Liu Yingchao , Wang Jinshan , Li Weimin 
Published: January 2024

AbstractIn the photolithography process of integrated circuits （IC） manufacturing, it is desired that the photoresist resins have both smaller polydispersity index (PDI) and lower trace metal ion concentrations. The commercial environmentally stable chemical amplified photoresist (ESCAP) resins for 248 nm lithography are synthesized by free radical polymerization with PDI >1.5. Although using atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) can result in lower PDI, the potential of high metal ion contamination is a major concern, as the reaction initiators usually are copper‐containing compounds. In this study, copolymer of p‐acetoxy styrene and tert‐butyl acrylate [poly(AOST‐co‐TBA)] is synthesized via ATRP achieving PDI as low as 1.25. It is then purified by ion exchange with two different resins, IRC747 and A15, which are effective at removing Cu and other metal ions. This reduces the total metal ion concentration in the copolymer powder to <30 ppb with individual metal ion <6 ppb. This is the first reported ATRP synthesized ESCAP resin having both low PDI and metal ion concentrations suitable for 248 nm photoresist application.
Effect of Amino Acid Types on the Mechanical and Antimicrobial Properties of Amino Acid‐Based Polyionic Liquid Hydrogels
Authors: Fan Jingying , He Xiaoling , Zhou Xuanping , Li Saisai , Yang Yuqing 
Published: January 2024

AbstractPolyionic liquid hydrogels attract increasing attention due to their unique properties and potential applications. However, research on amino acid‐based polyionic liquid hydrogels is still in its infancy stage. Moreover, the effect of amino acid types on the properties of hydrogels is rarely studied to date. In this work, amino acid‐based polyionic liquid hydrogels (D/L‐PCAA hydrogels) are synthesized by copolymerizing vinyl choline–amino acid ionic liquids and acrylic acids using Al3+ as a crosslinking agent and bacterial cellulose (BC) as a reinforcing agent. The effects of amino acid types on mechanical and antimicrobial properties are systematically investigated. D‐arginine‐based hydrogel (D‐PCArg) shows the highest tensile strength (220.7 KPa), D‐phenylalanine‐based hydrogel (D‐PCPhe) exhibits the highest elongation at break (1346%), and L‐aspartic acid‐based hydrogel (L‐PCAsp) has the highest elastic modulus (206.9 KPa) and toughness (1.74 MJ m−3). D/L‐PCAsp hydrogels demonstrate stronger antibacterial capacity against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, and D/L‐PCPhe hydrogels possess higher antifungal activity against Cryptococcus neoformans. Moreover, the resultant hydrogels exhibit prominent hemocompatibility and low toxicity, as well as excellent self‐healing capabilities (86%) and conductivity (2.8 S m−1). These results indicate that D/L‐PCAA hydrogel provides a promise for applications in wound dressings.
Phospholysine phosphohistidine inorganic pyrophosphate phosphatase suppresses insulin‐like growth factor 1 receptor expression to inhibit cell adhesion and proliferation in gastric cancer
Authors: Zhang Zihao , Wang Xu , Liu Yuan , Wu Hao , Zhu Xingyu , Ye Chunshui , Ren Huicheng , Chong Wei , Shang Liang , Li Leping 
Published: January 2024

AbstractPhospholysine phosphohistidine inorganic pyrophosphate phosphatase (LHPP) has recently emerged as a novel tumor suppressor. Researchers have observed that LHPP plays a crucial role in inhibiting proliferation, growth, migration, invasion, and cell metabolism across various cancers. Nevertheless, the specific functions and underlying mechanisms of LHPP as a tumor suppressor in gastric cancer (GC) require further exploration. The expression of LHPP was assessed in human GC specimens and cell lines. Various assays were employed to evaluate the impact of LHPP on GC cells. RNA sequencing and Gene Set Enrichment Analysis were conducted to unravel the mechanism through which LHPP regulates GC cell behavior. Additionally, xenograft nude mouse models were utilized to investigate the in vivo effects of LHPP. The findings indicate that LHPP, functioning as a tumor suppressor, is downregulated in both GC tissues and cells. LHPP emerges as an independent risk factor for GC patients, and its expression level exhibits a positive correlation with patient prognosis. LHPP exerts inhibitory effects on the adhesion and proliferation of GC cells by suppressing the expression of insulin‐like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF1R) and modulating downstream signaling pathways. Consequently, LHPP holds potential as a biomarker for targeted therapy involving IGF1R inhibition in GC patients.
Can apparently transient life events trigger long‐term lower urinary tract symptoms?
Authors: Sinha Sanjay , Vasudeva Pawan 
Published: January 2024

AbstractIntroductionOne‐time life events such as neurological injury can result in lifelong lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). However, it is unclear whether an apparently transient life event can also trigger long‐term LUTS. This review examines the possibility of an association and hypothesizes the pathogenesis.MethodsA pubmed search was conducted using the MeSH words “life change events,” “child abuse,” or “stress disorders, Posttraumatic”, and LUTS. Additional manuscripts were identified by a hand and citation search.ResultsLong‐term LUTS was noted following temporally remote childhood sexual abuse, adverse childhood experiences, and stressful experiences in adults. There was evidence for an association of childhood sexual abuse and adverse childhood events with both storage as well as voiding LUTS. There was limited evidence that the number of adverse childhood events might increase the risk and severity of LUTS. There was evidence of an association between post‐traumatic stress disorder in adults and LUTS. The finding of mental health disorders in such patients could explain some but not all of the observed association suggesting that other factors might also be important.ConclusionsThere is an association noted between apparently transient lifetime events and the subsequent reporting of LUTS. The timing of these adverse experiences might be important in determining the propensity for clinical manifestation. There is a need to explore this association, establish causality, and determine the underlying etiopathogenesis.
Is the insomnia phenotype the common denominator in LUTS during transition periods? An expert NOPIA research group review
Authors: Verbakel Irina , Bou kheir George , de Rijk Mathijs , Dhondt Karlien , Bliwise Don , Pauwaert Kim , Monaghan Thomas , Hervé François , Vogelaers Dirk , Mariman An , Everaert Karel 
Published: January 2024

AbstractAimsAs people age, sleep stages and characteristics transition over time, but sleep deficits can profoundly impact health and cognitive functioning. Chronic sleep deprivation is linked to impaired attention and productivity, weakened immunity, increased risk of cardiovascular disease, obesity, and mental health disorders. Insomnia, obstructive sleep apnea syndrome, hormonal changes, nocturia, neurological disorders, and life events interfere with sleep patterns and some are linked to lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). This NOPIA symposium on Lifelong LUTS aimed to analyze the literature on associations between sleep and LUTS, generate ideas for future research, and explore whether there is support for the concept of lifelong LUTS in relation to changes in sleep throughout the lifespan.MethodsAn international panel of experts took part in an online meeting addressing the role of lifelong LUTS in relationship to sleep and the brain organized by the NOPIA research group. The manuscript summarizes existing literature, hypotheses, future research ideas, and clinical recommendations.ResultsInsomnia, sleep fragmentation, hyperarousal, and sensory processing disorders emerged as potential factors in the relationship between sleep and LUTS. Insomnia is often a persistent factor and may have been the initial symptom; however, it is often unrecognized and/or unaddressed in healthcare settings. By recognizing insomnia as a primary driver of various health issues, including nocturia, transitional care aims to address root causes and underlying problems earlier to initiate appropriate treatment.ConclusionsA multidisciplinary approach with collaboration between healthcare professionals from various disciplines, such as urology, sleep medicine, gynecology, pediatrics, and geriatrics, is needed and should include validated measurements such as the insomnia severity index and sleep and voiding diaries. Ensuring ongoing follow‐up and monitoring through transitional care is crucial for individuals with persistent sleep problems and LUTS, allowing issues that arise or fluctuate over the lifespan to be addressed.
Should hormone replacement therapy (any route of administration) be considered in all postmenopausal women with lower urinary tract symptoms? Report from the ICI‐RS 2023
Authors: Taithongchai Annika , Mohamed‐Ahmed Rayan , Sinha Sanjay , Gibson William , Giarenis Ilias , Robinson Dudley , Abrams Paul 
Published: January 2024

AbstractAimsThis International Consultation on Incontinence‐Research Society report aims to summarize the evidence and uncertainties regarding the use of hormone replacement therapy by any route in the management of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) including recurrent urinary tract infections (rUTI), with a review of special considerations for the elderly. Research question proposals to further this field have been highlighted.MethodsAn overview of the existing evidence, guidelines, and consensus regarding the use of topical or systemic estrogens in the management of LUTS.ResultsThere are currently evidence and recommendations to offer topical estrogens to postmenopausal women with overactive bladder symptoms as well as postmenopausal women with rUTIs. Systemic estrogens however have been shown in a meta‐analysis to have a negative effect on LUTS and, therefore are not currently recommended.ConclusionsAlthough available evidence and recommendations exist for the use of topical estrogens, few women are commenced on these in primary care. There remain large gaps still within our knowledge of the use of estrogens within the management of LUTS, particularly on when it should be commenced, the length of time treatment should be continued for, and barriers to prescribing.
Development and validation of the Convalescence Symptom Assessment Scale for EsophageCtomy patients
Authors: Ge Hui , Ma Xuanxuan , Li Wen , Wang Pan , Zhang Zonghao , Qin Qiaoyun , Li Shuwen 
Published: January 2024

AbstractAimA specific, valid and reliable measure is much needed to dynamically assess the recovery of symptoms in oesophagectomy patients. This study describes developing and validating the Convalescent Symptom Assessment Scale for oesophagectomy patients (CSAS_EC).DesignAn instrument development and cross‐sectional validation study was conducted.MethodsThis study consists of two components: instrument development and psychometric tests. In instrument development, the literature review, qualitative interviews, Delphi method expert consultation and face validation were used to develop and refine scale content. In psychometric tests, the clinical test version scale was used to conduct a cross‐sectional in the thoracic surgery department from 17 June to 20 November 2022. The Classical Test Theory and Multidimensional Item Response Theory (MIRT) analyses examined psychometric properties.ResultsIn instrument development, literature review (n = 20), qualitative interviews (n = 21), expert consultation (n = 12) and pre‐survey (n = 15) led to the development of the clinical test version scale. In psychometric tests, a total of 331 participants were enrolled. Confirmatory factor analysis and MIRT analysis verified that a model with 28 items in four dimensions was good. The four dimensions were early recovery symptoms, late recovery symptoms, persistent present symptoms and psychosocial symptoms. The Cronbach's α is 0.827. The validity and reliability were demonstrated to be acceptable.ConclusionsThe CSAS_EC scale can be used as a tool to evaluate the recovery status of oesophagectomy patients.
Detection of compatibilizer efficiency in conductive polymer blends by impedance spectroscopy: Microstructure evaluation approach
Authors: Dadashi Parsa , Hashemi Motlagh Ghodratollah 
Published: January 2024

AbstractA novel approach of electrical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) is proposed to investigate the role of a compatibilizer on nanoparticle distribution in polymer blends with a co‐continuous morphology. Polypropylene/poly(ethylene‐co‐vinyl acetate) PP/EVA blends containing 3 vol% carbon nanotubes (CNT) with varying contents of polypropylene‐grafted‐ maleic anhydride (PP‐g‐MA) as compatibilizer were directly melt mixed. Microscopy, rheology, and thermodynamic analyses confirmed the distribution of CNTs in PP, EVA, and their interface. The EIS behavior of the blend nanocomposites was remarkably changed due to the formation of interphase by PP‐g‐MA/CNT. It was found that as the efficiency of compatibilizer increases the frequency dependency of the impedance diminishes showing a significant shift in the frequency cutoff from 104 Hz to 5 × 105 Hz. The EIS results also showed that compatibilizer can affect the loss factor. Incorporating 5 vol% or 10 vol% of the compatibilizer slightly reduced the loss factor, but a considerable reduction was observed at 20 vol% at which a conductive continuous interphase of compatibilizer formed at the interface. Moreover, the presence of compatibilizer led to a remarkable increase in dielectric constant by four orders of magnitude. EIS can effectively and comfortably trace the performance of a compatibilizer in a conductive polymer blend nanocomposite.Highlights
EIS measurements describe microstructure of conductive polymer blend.
EIS detects morphology development of a compatibilizer at varying contents.
Migration of compatibilizer intensifies the Nyquist diameter decrement.
Compatibilizer decreases dielectric relaxation time.
Comprehensive performance of polycarbonate films doped with Tb(III) and Eu(III) complexes
Authors: Wu Fang , Zhang Xinfei , Wang Qi , Yu Dayang , Zheng Pan , Zhu Rongli , Wang Xu , Pu Zejun , Zhong Jiachun 
Published: January 2024

AbstractIn order to expand the application of biobased polycarbonate in optical components, a series of isosorbide polycarbonate (PICC)/rare earth ion complex fluorescent composites were prepared by using PICC as a macromolecular ligand and Eu3+ and Tb3+ as rare earth luminescence centers. The coordination system between rare earth ions and PICC was investigated by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, DSC and TGA. On adjusting the ratio of Eu3+ and Tb3+, a PICC/rare earth ion composite with adjustable fluorescence color was obtained. Also, the thermal, mechanical and optical properties of a series of PICC/rare earth ion fluorescent films with different ratios were tested. A transparent fluorescent composite material with excellent mechanical properties and tunable fluorescent colors has been prepared. © 2024 Society of Industrial Chemistry.
Forgetting cane grasses: Switching temporal focus to reveal mosaics of Saccharum diversity
Authors: Denham Tim 
Published: January 2024

Societal Impact StatementSugarcane (Saccharum cvs.) is one of the most important cash crops globally. Related varieties and species of cane grasses of the genus Saccharum are also important subsistence crops in the Indo‐Pacific region. Despite the significance of these crops globally and recent advances in genetic characterisation, the histories and geographies of domestication are poorly understood. A scenario for the geodomestication of sugarcane is proposed to highlight the diversity of Saccharum species and their significance for future proofing sugarcane. The historical agrobiodiversity of cane grasses, together with practices of cultivation, uses and associated forms of practical and symbolic knowledge, provide culturally appropriate bases for crop improvement.SummaryAn historical scenario for the domestication of sugarcane (Saccharum cvs.) is proposed based on a literary review of a range of agronomic, archaeobotanical, archaeological, genetic, historical, linguistic and phytogeographic sources. The proposed scenario outlines a protracted, multistage domestication process for the extended period before the directed breeding programmes that led to the development of modern commercial cultivars over the last 100 years or so. First, the initial management, cultivation and translocation of Saccharum robustum within the circum‐New Guinea region produced cultiwilds (viz., morphogenetically wild plants cultivated and translocated by people) and, arguably, some S. robustum cultivars. Second, the spontaneous generation of sugar‐rich pith in some S. robustum plants and subsequent anthropic selection led to the development of ‘domesticated’ Saccharum officinarum within the circum‐New Guinea region. Third, the dispersal under cultivation of S. officinarum cultivars brought them into contact with wild‐type Saccharum spontaneum populations around the Indo‐Pacific, which led to the development of sugarcane (S. officinarum × spontaneum) hybrids that were subsequently cultivated and selected vegetatively. These ancient hybrids Saccharum barberi and Saccharum sinense became regionally important in India and China, respectively.Although much research has focussed on clarifying the Saccharum lineages directly contributing to the major commercial sugarcane cultivar lineages, such a teleological interpretation misses a vast range of agrobiodiversity in terms of the plants (S. robustum, S. officinarum, S. barberi, S. sinense and S. cvs.); domestication status (wild, cultiwild and domestic); and, practices (associated with cultivation, use and traditional knowledge) in the past. The diversity of plants and practices in the past provides the historical backdrop against which any linear interpretation of sugarcane domestication should be understood. This historical reconstruction of domestication processes draws attention to this agrobiodiversity, which can inform breeding programmes seeking to diversify and improve sugarcane cultivars for commercial and subsistence agriculture into the future.
Factors associated with sensitisation to selected aero‐allergens in children and adolescents with asthma followed up at Laquintinie Hospital Douala, Cameroon
Authors: Eposse Ekoube Charlotte , Abba Soumaiyatou , Endale Mangamba Mireille , Mandeng Ma Linwa Edgar , Tchouamo Pokem Annick , Mbonjo Bitsie Dora , Disso Massako Jeannette , Heles Nsang Emmanuel , Ngo Linwa Esther Eleonore , Kedy Mangamba Koum Daniele‐Christiane 
Published: January 2024

AbstractIntroductionIn spite of the substantial impact of pediatric asthma on healthcare resources, there is a notable dearth of research focusing on allergen sensitization specifically in children and adolescents with asthma in Cameroon, with existing studies primarily concentrating on adult populations. We, therefore, set out to determine factors associated with sensitization to selected aero‐allergens in children and adolescents with asthma followed up at Laquintinie Hospital Douala, Cameroon.MethodologyWe conducted a cross‐sectional analytical study on patients aged 2–17 years followed up for pediatric asthma at Laquintinie Hospital Douala for 8 months (January to August 2023). Skin prick tests were performed using selected standardized aeroallergens extracts. Factors associated with sensitization were determined using multivariable logistic regression analysis. The threshold for significance was set at p < .05.ResultsIn total, 126 children and adolescents with asthma were recruited, 50.79% of whom were male with an average age of 8.00 ± 3.99 years. Eight out of 10 patients (83.52%) were sensitized to common aero‐allergens (20.59% monosensitized and 79.41% polysensitized). The most common aero‐allergens found were the dust mites Dermatophagoïdes pteronyssinus (81.37%), Blomia tropicalis (67.64%) and Dermatophagoïdes farinae (52.94%) followed by Blatella species (25.49%). The factors independently associated with sensitization in our population were the personal history of allergic rhinitis in the patient [adjusted odds ratio, aOR: 4.07 (95% confidence interval, CI: 1.41–11.76), b = 0.54, p = .009], chest tightness at rest [aOR: 5.92 (95% CI: 1.08–32.38), b = 0.87, p = .040), and age above 5 years [aOR: 4.65 (95% CI: 1.47–14.69), b = 0.59, p = .009).ConclusionSensitization to multiple aeroallergens is common in children and adolescents with asthma, especially for dust mites and cockroaches. Factors associated with sensitization are patients aged >5 years, chest tightness at rest, and a personal history of allergic rhinitis.
Resilient output synchronization dynamic event‐triggered control to link faults in heterogeneous multi‐agent systems
Authors: Xia Lina , Li Qing , Song Ruizhuo , Liu Lu 
Published: January 2024

AbstractThe fully distributed output leader‐follower event‐triggered resilient control algorithm is proposed for heterogeneous multi‐agent systems (MASs) under communication link faults and constraints. An estimation of the information of the leader is achieved by designing a dynamic event‐triggered observer with resilience to link faults without using the eigenvalues of the global matrix. Zeno behavior is also excluded under the dynamic triggering mechanism. Considering that the state information of the follower is not available, a distributed output leader‐follower control law is further designed to achieve asymptotically convergence of the leader‐follower consensus error, and only the output information of followers is required. Finally, the availability of the theoretical results is shown in two numerical examples.