bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
An oral French maritime pine bark extract improves hair density in menopausal women: A randomized, placebo‐controlled, double blind intervention study
Authors: Cai Carr , Zeng Bill , Lin Lydia , Zheng Miranda , Burki Carolina , Grether‐Beck Susanne , Krutmann Jean 
Published: January 2023

AbstractBackground and AimsFemale pattern hair loss affects females of all ages with a trend to increase after menopause. This disorder may have significant psychological impact and lead to anxiety and depression.ObjectiveIn a single center, double blind, randomized, placebo‐controlled study, the effects of oral Pycnogenol® intake (3 × 50 mg/day for a total of 6 months) on hair density, scalp microcirculation, and a variety of skin physiological parameters was studied in Han Chinese menopausal women (N = 76) in Shanghai, China.MethodsMeasurements were taken at the beginning and after 2 and 6 months, respectively. Hair density was determined by digital photographs and further evaluated by Trichoscan software. Transepidermal water loss was measured by a humidity sensor in a closed chamber on the skin surface. Changes in microcirculation were detected as resting flux on the scalp by reflection photoplethysmography.ResultsPycnogenol® intake significantly increased hair density by 30% and 23% after 2 and 6 months of treatment, respectively, as detected by Trichoscan® evaluation of digital photographs. Interestingly, photoplethysmography revealed that this beneficial effect was associated with a decrease in resting flux of the scalp skin, which might indicate an improvement of microcirculation. None of these effects were observed in the placebo taking group. In addition, a significant transient decrease of transepidermal water loss was observed in scalp skin under Pycnogenol,® but not placebo treatment.ConclusionOral intake of Pycnogenol® might have the potential to reduce hair loss in postmenopausal women.
On the effect of the transversal aspect ratio on the double‐glazed solar air heater performance
Authors: Mzad Hocine , Bennour Fethi 
Published: January 2023

AbstractThe transversal aspect ratio of solar air heaters (SAHs) is a critical geometric parameter that influences the heat transfer from the absorber plate to the working fluid and, accordingly, the overall heat loss level. The present work addresses the effect of the aspect ratio on the performance of a solar air heating system and the behavior of heat transfer coefficients (HTCs) within it and along the flow channel. A mathematical model of energy‐balance equations was formulated to examine and analyze the double‐glazed solar air heater thermal behavior. The Eismann correlation, which is more accurate than Holland's correlation, was employed to determine the HTC between the two glass covers. The useful energy, Nusselt number (Nu), efficiency, overall loss, and HTCs as a function of the aspect ratio were evaluated across the collector length. On the basis of the findings, the higher the ratio, the better the efficiency of the SAH. Indeed, increasing the collector's cross‐sectional aspect ratio (r) up to 19 increases useful energy efficiency by more than 87%, Nu by 84%, thermohydraulic efficiency from 0.4 to 0.76, and overall heat loss by 1.15 W/(m2 K). Furthermore, reducing r from 19 to 2 will improve the collector power from 1.855 to 3.473 kW.
Mass transfer of viscous gas flow over porous stretching/shrinking sheet in the presence of slip and mass transpiration
Authors: Vinaykumar Poorigaly Nanjundaswami , Anusha Thipeswamy , Mahabaleshwar Ulavathi Shetter , Souayeh Basma 
Published: January 2023

AbstractThe effect of the mass transpiration parameter on the viscous gas flow past a porous stretching/shrinking sheet in the presence of Navier's slip is investigated, and also, the mass transfer characteristics are examined. The physical flow problem executes the Navier–Stokes and the mass equation, which forms the system of nonlinear partial differential equations. These are transformed via similarity variables into a system of ordinary differential equations. The slip flow model of the total mass transfer on the moving sheet is modeled by introducing gas slip velocity. The total mass transfer on the moving sheet is modeled by inducing slip models of first and second order. Further, the suction which induces the slip velocity as opposed to the surface movement is examined. The mass suction‐induced slip forces the adjacent gases to flow in the reverse direction to sheet movement. Thus, the solution space expands with the slip‐induced suction and sheet movement. In the mass injection case, the induced slip increases the effect of the fluid flow for sheet movement. Upon all previous flow models, the present investigation is significant due as it investigates the mass transfer of viscous gasses flow past a porous medium in the presence of slip and mass transpiration.
New insights into the mechanisms of high‐fat diet mediated gut microbiota in chronic diseases
Authors: Chen Jiali , Xiao Yuhang , Li Dongmei , Zhang Shiqing , Wu Yingzi , Zhang Qing , Bai Weibin 
Published: January 2023

AbstractHigh‐fat diet (HFD) has been recognized as a primary factor in the risk of chronic disease. Obesity, diabetes, gastrointestinal diseases, neurodegenerative diseases, and cardiovascular diseases have long been known as chronic diseases with high worldwide incidence. In this review, the influences of gut microbiota and their corresponding bacterial metabolites on the mechanisms of HFD‐induced chronic diseases are systematically summarized. Gut microbiota imbalance is also known to increase susceptibility to diseases. Several studies have proven that HFD has a negative impact on gut microbiota, also exacerbating the course of many chronic diseases through increased populations of Erysipelotrichaceae, facultative anaerobic bacteria, and opportunistic pathogens. Since bile acids, lipopolysaccharide, short‐chain fatty acids, and trimethylamine N‐oxide have long been known as common features of bacterial metabolites, we will explore the possibility of synergistic mechanisms among those metabolites and gut microbiota in the context of HFD‐induced chronic diseases. Recent literature concerning the mechanistic actions of HFD‐mediated gut microbiota have been collected from PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus. The aim of this review is to provide new insights into those mechanisms and to point out the potential biomarkers of HFD‐mediated gut microbiota.
How can we build human resources (HR) that deliver value? A systematic literature review of traditional and transformational HR roles
Authors: Azam Md. Saiful 
Published: January 2023

AbstractOver the last two decades, human resource (HR) professionals have been practicing traditional human resource processes in their organizations. However, a good number of HR professionals are struggling to implement a strategic impact on their businesses. They are laboring to shift from old‐fashioned traditional HR practices to transformational processes. This research paper aims to determine the traditional and transformational roles of HR that deliver value to the business when we bridge the gap between them. This study conducts a systematic literature review of articles and books. The study primarily analyzed secondary data, including the previous data derived from prior research studies that the researcher extensively reviewed to understand the traditional and transformational HR roles. This study shows that for HR to deliver business value, the core functions of HR need to integrate and align with the transformational roles of HR, which include HR leadership, HR business partner (HRBP), employee champion, and change agent. Here, a conceptual framework of traditional and transformational HR roles is presented, explaining the linkage between them that build successful HR professionals. The study contributes to the development of the literature on HR.
Understanding the relationship between subclinical depressive symptoms and physical activity in behavioral weight loss treatment
Authors: McCausland Hannah C. , Hagerman Charlotte J. , Ehmann Marny M. , Butryn Meghan L. 
Published: January 2023

AbstractIntroductionMany adults with overweight or obesity experience subclinical symptoms of depression, but little is known about how such symptoms are associated with physical activity (PA) or the experience of PA during behavioral weight loss (BWL) treatment.MethodsIn the current study, adults recruited from the community (N = 320) received 18 months of group‐based BWL treatment and wore accelerometers at months 0, 6, and 18 to objectively measure PA. Participants with a mood disorder that was not well controlled were not eligible for the study and were referred for individual treatment. Depressive symptoms, PA barriers, discomfort avoidance, and self‐control were self‐reported with validated measures.ResultsAt baseline, the majority of participants indicated some depressive symptoms, mostly at subclinical levels. Results of multilevel models suggest that depressive symptoms were not significantly associated with concurrent measures of PA engagement (minutes/week) or sedentary behavior (minutes/week) at a given time point (i.e., baseline, 6 months, or 18 months). Results of cross‐level interactions suggest that baseline depressive symptoms did not moderate the change in PA or sedentary behavior across time. Concurrent depressive symptoms and PA barriers were significantly and positively associated at a given time point (i.e., baseline, 6 months, or 18 months); however, baseline depressive symptoms did not moderate the improvement in perceived PA barriers across time. At baseline, higher discomfort avoidance and lower self‐control each independently and partially mediated the relationship between depressive symptoms and PA barriers.ConclusionResults suggest that, among BWL samples in which most participants do not have clinically significant depressive symptoms, the likelihood of adopting and sustaining PA does not depend on the extent of depressive symptoms, but those with elevated symptoms may benefit from approaches that address their perception that engaging in PA is especially challenging.
Have we failed them? Online learning self‐efficacy of physiotherapy students during COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Madi Mohammad , Hamzeh Hayat , Abujaber Sumayeh , Nawasreh Zakariya H. 
Published: January 2023

AbstractBackground & ObjectiveThe use of online learning systems during COVID‐19 pandemic created concerns about students' ability to successfully navigate the online learning environment. This study aims to capture the experience and changes in self‐efficacy of physiotherapy students in Jordan.MethodsA mixed methods online survey was used. Physiotherapy entry‐level students in public universities completed the online learning self‐efficacy (OLSE) and the academic self‐efficacy (ASE) scales. A free‐entry text box was used to document the factors that augmented or reduced the perceived level of self‐efficacy.ResultsA statistically significant decrease in OLSE (t = 6.043, p < 0.001) and in ASE (t = 3.960, p < 0.001) was identified. Four main qualitative themes were identified, namely: availability of time, resources and learning skills; social and psychological stress; educators' skills and access; and accepting the need for a change.ConclusionContrary to expectations, the findings indicated a decrease in self‐efficacy. This has implications in light of the new direction to formalise online learning in Jordanian higher education institutes post COVID‐19 pandemic. Training educators as well as students on best online learning practices could increase students' perceived efficacy.
Endothelial IK and SK channel activation decreases pulmonary arterial pressure and vascular remodeling in pulmonary hypertension
Authors: Daneva Zdravka , Chen Yen‐Lin , Ta Huy Q. , Manchikalapudi Vamsi , Bazaz Abhishek , Laubach Victor E. , Sonkusare Swapnil K. 
Published: January 2023

AbstractEndothelial cells (ECs) from small pulmonary arteries (PAs) release nitric oxide (NO) and prostacyclin, which lower pulmonary arterial pressure (PAP). In pulmonary hypertension (PH), the levels of endothelium‐derived NO and prostacyclin are reduced, contributing to elevated PAP. Small‐and intermediate‐conductance Ca2+‐activated K+ channels (IK and SK)—additional crucial endothelial mediators of vasodilation—are also present in small PAs, but their function has not been investigated in PH. We hypothesized that endothelial IK and SK channels can be targeted to lower PAP in PH. Whole‐cell patch‐clamp experiments showed functional IK and SK channels in ECs, but not smooth muscle cells, from small PAs. Using a SU5416 plus chronic hypoxia (Su + CH) mouse model of PH, we found that currents through EC IK and SK channels were unchanged compared with those from normal mice. Moreover, IK/SK channel‐mediated dilation of small PAs was preserved in Su + CH mice. Consistent with previous reports, endothelial NO levels and NO‐mediated dilation were reduced in small PAs from Su + CH mice. Notably, acute treatment with IK/SK channel activators decreased PAP in Su + CH mice but not in normal mice. Further, chronic activation of IK/SK channels decreased PA remodeling and right ventricular hypertrophy, which are pathological hallmarks of PH, in Su + CH mice. Collectively, our data provide the first evidence that, unlike endothelial NO release, IK/SK channel activity is not altered in PH. Our results also demonstrate proof of principle that IK/SK channel activation can be used as a strategy for lowering PAP in PH.
Anakinra was not associated with lower mortality in hospitalised COVID‐19 patients: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Shang Wenli , Zhang Yingying , Wang Guizuo , Han Dong 
Published: January 2023

AbstractThe Coronavirus disease‐2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic continues, and the death toll continues to surge. This meta‐analysis aimed to determine the efficacy of anakinra on mortality in patients with COVID‐19. A systematic search was made of PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and clinicaltrials.gov, without language restrictions. Randomized controlled trials on treatment of COVID‐19 with anakinra, compared with placebo or blank, were reviewed. Studies were pooled to risk ratios (RRs), with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Five Randomized controlled trials (enrolling 1859 participants) met the inclusion criteria. There was no statistically significant difference in 14‐day mortality (RR 0.78, 95% CI 0.43–1.39; P = 0.40), 28‐day mortality (RR 1.06, 95% CI 0.89–1.26; P = 0.51), and 90‐day mortality (RR 1.01, 95% CI 0.73–1.39; P = 0.97) between the two groups. Sensitivity analyses further confirmed these results. Anakinra was not associated with reduced mortality in hospitalised patients with COVID‐19. Anakinra probably should not be used routinely in COVID‐19 patients.
Reliable Monte Carlo localization for mobile robots
Authors: Akai Naoki 
Published: January 2023

AbstractReliability is a key factor for realizing safety guarantee of fully autonomous robot systems. In this paper, we focus on reliability in mobile robot localization. Monte Carlo localization (MCL) is widely used for mobile robot localization. However, it is still difficult to guarantee its safety because there are no methods determining reliability for MCL estimate. This paper presents a novel localization framework that enables robust localization, reliability estimation, and quick relocalization, simultaneously. The presented method can be implemented using a similar estimation manner to that of MCL. The method can increase localization robustness to environment changes by estimating known and unknown obstacles while performing localization; however, localization failure of course occurs by unanticipated errors. The method also includes a reliability estimation function that enables a robot to know whether localization has failed. Additionally, the method can seamlessly integrate a global localization method via importance sampling. Consequently, quick relocalization from a failure state can be realized while mitigating noisy influence of global localization. We conduct three types of experiments using wheeled mobile robots equipped with a two‐dimensional LiDAR. Results show that reliable MCL that performs robust localization, self‐failure detection, and quick failure recovery can be realized.
Construction of Shape‐Controlled MgO Microstructures by Natural Bischofite for Cost‐Efficient Dye Adsorption
Authors: He Xinrui , Ma Cunhua , Wang Zhenbin , Zhang Mingjin 
Published: January 2023

AbstractIn this work, Magnesium oxide (MgO) adsorbents were synthesized by coprecipitation method via natural bischofite (MgCl2 ⋅ 6H2O, ≥96 wt %) as magnesium source, two different morphologies of MgO nanomaterials, flower‐spheres‐like (MgO−S1) and lamellas‐like (MgO−L1), were successfully synthesized by control of synthesis conditions. The adsorption experimental results showed on Congo Red (CR) dye that both MgO−S1 and MgO−L1 exhibit outstanding adsorption performance with a high adsorption quantity (about 2000 mg ⋅ g−1). Langmuir was the most suitable model to describe the adsorption isotherm. The adsorption kinetics of CR are in accord with the pseudo‐second‐order kinetics (PSO). As a control, flower‐spheres‐like (MgO−S2) and lamellas‐like (MgO−L2) were synthesized by commercial MgCl2 ⋅ 6H2O, and their adsorbing performance on CR dye in wastewater was studied. The results show that MgOs prepared by different Mg resources took on exactly the same shape and nearly the same adsorption properties.
Formal Alkenylation and Amination of 2‐Nitrobenzofurans with Fumaric Acid Amide Ester under Metal‐Free Conditions
Authors: Ananda Rao Gunda , Jamwal Paru , Gurubrahamam Ramani , Chen Kwunmin 
Published: January 2023

AbstractAn inorganic base promoted metal‐free formal alkenylation and amination of 2‐nitrobenzofurans is established with fumaric acid amide ester derivatives. The cascade strategy provides the 2‐alkenyl and 3‐amino substituted benzofuransviaMichael addition/cyclization/nitrous acid elimination/N‐demethoxylation/C−N bond cleavage and isomerization sequence. The desired 2‐(3‐aminobenzofuran‐2‐yl)malonate derivatives are obtained in moderate‐to‐good yields with high stereoselectivity under mild reaction conditions (up to 71 % yield and >20 : 1Z : E). The structure of the products is assigned from the single crystal x‐ray structural analysis.
Are seed accelerators status springboards for startups? Or sand traps?
Authors: Hallen Benjamin L. , Cohen Susan L. , Park Sung Ho 
Published: January 2023

AbstractResearch SummaryRecent research finds participating in seed accelerators can improve startups' access to growth and funding, but effects are highly heterogeneous. Less understood is whether accelerator participation can also help startups obtain higher‐status early partners. On one hand, participation may improve startups' quality and signal quality to desirable partners. Yet research suggests reasons any signaling effects might be quite small or even negative, since accelerators might be perceived as a “market for lemons.” Using two complementary and proprietary datasets of U.S. startups, we find many seed accelerators are indeed springboards—associated with startups raising from higher‐status investors—but that others have very limited and some slight negative effects. We examine contingencies and mechanisms, and conclude with contributions to literatures on accelerators and organizational status.Managerial SummaryRecent research has found that some seed accelerators help startups' grow and raise funds. In this research, we examine whether accelerators also help startups gain higher‐status investors, which are desirable for the advice, signals, and networks they offer. Yet there are conflicting reasons why accelerators may help or hurt startups in obtaining higher‐status investors. Using two proprietary datasets of U.S. startups, our results suggest many accelerators like Techstars and Y Combinator have notable benefits in helping startups raise from higher‐status investors. Yet we also see substantial differences across accelerators. Interestingly, effects do not appear sensitive to regional entrepreneurial activity. We conclude with implications for entrepreneurs, accelerators, and policy makers.
Pt Nanoparticle Assisted Homogeneous Surface Engineering of Polymer‐Based Bulk‐Heterojunction Photocathodes for Efficient Charge Extraction and Catalytic Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Wu Yanling , Liu Deyu , Le Jiabo , Zhuang Huanglong , Kuang Yongbo 
Published: January 2023

AbstractTo fabricate a high‐efficiency bulk‐heterojunction (BHJ)‐based photocathode, introducing suitable interfacial modification layer(s) is a crucial strategy. Surface engineering is especially important for achieving high‐performance photocathodes because the photoelectrochemical (PEC) reactions at the photocathode/electrolyte interface are the rate‐limiting process. Despite its importance, the influence of interfacial layer morphology regulation on PEC activity has attracted insufficient attention. In this work, RuO2, with excellent conductivity, capacity and catalytic properties, is utilized as an interfacial layer to modify the BHJ layer. However, the homogeneous coverage of hydrophilic RuO2 on the hydrophobic BHJ surface is challenging. To address this issue, a Pt nanoparticle‐assisted homogeneous RuO2 layer deposition method is developed and successfully applied to several BHJ‐based photocathodes, achieving superior PEC performance compared to those prepared by conventional interface engineering strategies. Among them, the fluorine‐doped tin oxide (FTO)/J71:N2200(Pt)/RuO2 photocathode generates the best photocurrent density of −9.0 mA cm−2 at 0 V with an onset potential of up to 1.0 V under AM1.5 irradiation.
Synergistically Designed Dual Interfaces to Enhance the Electrochemical Performance of MoO2/MoS2 in Na‐ and Li‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Li Xiaofeng , Wang Ran , Wu Qing , Yu Yonghao , Gao Tangling , Yao Tai , Wang Xianjie , Han Jiecai , Song Bo 
Published: January 2023

AbstractIt is indispensable to develop and design high capacity, high rate performance, long cycling life, and low‐cost electrodes materials for lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) and sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs). Herein, MoO2/MoS2/C, with dual heterogeneous interfaces, is designed to induce a built‐in electric field, which has been proved by experiments and theoretical calculation can accelerate electrochemical reaction kinetics and generate interfacial interactions to strengthen structural stability. The carbon foam serves as a conductive frame to assist the movement of electrons/ions, as well as forms heterogeneous interfaces with MoO2/MoS2 through CS and CO bonds, maintaining structural integrity and enhancing electronic transport. Thanks to these unique characteristics, the MoO2/MoS2/C renders a significantly enhanced electrochemical performance (324 mAh g−1 at 1 A g−1 after 1000 cycles for SIB and 500 mAh g−1 at 1 A g−1 after 500 cycles for LIBs). The current work presents a simple, useful and cost‐effective route to design high‐quality electrodes via interfacial engineering.