bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterization of InN Grown Directly on Sapphire Substrate Using Plasma‐Enhanced Metal Organic Chemical Vapor Deposition
Authors: Gotow Takahiro , Kumagai Naoto , Shimizu Tetsuji , Yamada Hisashi , Ide Toshihide , Maeda Tatsuro
Published: May 2024

Direct InN growth is demonstrated and characterized on a sapphire (Al2O3) substrate by plasma‐enhanced metal–organic chemical vapor deposition using high‐density nitrogen (N2) microstrip‐line microwave plasma. N2 plasma irradiation at 650 °C for 20 min forms AlN on Al2O3 substrate. No peak regarding metallic In droplets is detected from InN/Al2O3 regardless of N2 plasma irradiation. InN is found to be rotated 30° with their a‐axis oriented to become InN // Al2O3. The transition layers are confirmed at the InN/Al2O3 interface regardless of N2 plasma irradiation. The surface of InN consisted of large undulations with root mean square values >30 nm, suggesting that strain relaxation introduces misfit dislocations.
Drought tolerance and grain yield performance of genetically diverse pearl millet [Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br.] seed and restorer parental lines
Authors: Ramalingam Ajay Prasanth , Rathinagiri Akilan , Serba Desalegn D. , Madasamy Parani , Muthurajan Raveendran , Prasad P. V. Vara , Perumal Ramasamy
Published: May 2024

Pearl millet [Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br.] is a climate‐resilient cereal crop widely grown in arid and semiarid environments and an important crop for food, fodder, and nutritional security. This study was aimed at evaluating genetic variation(s) for drought tolerance‐related traits in a set of 29 seed (B) and 27 restorer (R) lines and identifying pearl millet inbreds for hybrid development. Field experiments were conducted in a split‐plot in randomized complete block design with three replications for 2 years. Moisture regimes (irrigated and rainfed) were kept as main plot treatments, and the genotypes were used as subplot treatments. Principal component analysis and neighbor joining clustering revealed the presence of greater genetic diversity between B and R lines. Combined analysis of variance showed significant difference(s) between the lines, treatments, and years. Genotype + genotype × environment interaction biplot indicated the significant environment and treatment effect(s) on grain yield per plant, number of seeds per plant, and 1000‐grain weight. Rank summation index based on percentage reduction and multi‐trait stability index analyses for the above three traits identified the best adapted genotypes for rainfed conditions. Based on these analyses, seven seed parents (ARCH41B, ARCH01B, ARCH13B, ARCH44B, ARCH09B, ARCH24B, and ARCH30B) and six pollinators (ARCH36R, ARCH68R, ARCH22R, ARCH63R, ARCH50R, and ARCH60R) were identified as potential parents to develop high‐yielding and drought‐tolerant pearl millet hybrids for the semiarid tropics.
How does mindful leadership promote employee green behavior? The moderating role of green human resource management
Authors: Yang Jin , Yu Ting , Li Anya
Published: May 2024

Given the global environmental issues, mindful leadership could be a new approach to help employees and organizations keep their inner capabilities of mindfulness and resilience in facing uncertainty and complexity. Building on social information processing theory, the present study theorized and tested the effect of mindful leadership on employee green behavior. Among the links proposed, green organizational identity and green self‐efficacy were utilized as mediating roles, and green human resource management (GHRM) was regarded as a moderator. A total of 291 sample data were collected from Southwestern China, and the research hypotheses were examined by a structural equation model. Results confirm the significant indirect effect between mindful leadership and employee green behavior through the mediating roles of green organizational identity and green self‐efficacy. GHRM moderates the relationship between mindful leadership and employee green organizational identity, green self‐efficacy, and green behavior. Results provide a new perspective on employees' green outcomes and provide practical significance for improving organizational environmental sustainability.
A high step‐up DC/DC converter with capacitor‐clamped double‐switch structure for proton exchange membrane fuel cell application
Authors: Zhou Xuanhao , Qi Zhidong , Bai Liyin , Chu Kaihui , Zhou Lifeng
Published: May 2024

Due to the low output voltage and soft output characteristics of proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC), DC/DC converter with high voltage gain has become a key part for safe and stable operation. In this paper, a novel high step‐up DC/DC converter with switched‐inductor (SI), switched‐capacitor (SC), and a capacitor‐clamped double‐switch structure is proposed, which can obtain high voltage gain with lower duty cycle and low voltage stress on switches and diodes. Switches run in an interleaving mode to reduce the inductor current ripple. The detailed analysis of the converter, device parameter design, comparation with other converters, and double closed‐loop controller design are presented, respectively. Finally, a 100‐W, 15‐V/100‐V experimental prototype is built to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed converter and controller.
A case of intra‐abdominal gossypiboma diagnosed preoperatively by endoscopic ultrasound fine‐needle‐aspiration
Authors: Dainaka Katsuyuki , Juichiro Yoshida , Inada Yutaka , Fukui Akifumi , Nishimura Takeshi , Fujii Hideki , Tomatsuri Naoya , Okuyama Yusuke , Sato Hideki , Urata Yoji
Published: May 2024

Gossypiboma is an extremely rare adverse event occurring post‐surgery, where surgical gauze is left within the body. If aseptically retained, it can lead to the formation of granulation tissue through chronic inflammation and adhesion with surrounding tissues, potentially persisting asymptomatically for many years. While diagnosis of this condition has been reported through various imaging modalities such as abdominal ultrasound and computed tomography, cases not presenting with typical findings are difficult for preoperative diagnosis, and instances where it is discovered postoperatively exist. Particularly when in contact with the gastrointestinal tract within the abdominal cavity, differentiation from submucosal tumors of the digestive tract becomes problematic. This report describes the imaging characteristics of endoscopic ultrasound and the usefulness of endoscopic ultrasound‐fine‐needle‐aspiration for tissue diagnosis in the preoperative diagnosis of intra‐abdominal gossypiboma.
Relation of myocardial dysfunction to biomarkers, COVID‐19 severity and all‐cause mortality
Authors: Chen Jianxiong , Jin Lin , Zhang Mengjiao , Wu Lingheng , Shen Cuiqin , Sun Jiali , Du Lianfang , Luo Xianghong , Li Zhaojun
Published: May 2024

Aims

The COVID‐19 infection has been described as affecting myocardial injury. However, the relation between left ventricular global longitudinal strain (GLS), global circumferential strain (GCS) and global radial strain (GRS), disease severity and all‐cause mortality in COVID‐19 is unclear.

Methods and Results

The study consisted of 220 patients with COVID‐19, including 127 (57.5%) with mild, 43 (19.5%) with moderate and 50 (22.7%) with severe/critical conditions. Myocardial dysfunction was analysed by GLS, GCS and GRS using two‐dimensional speckle‐tracking echocardiography. Hazard ratios and Kaplan–Meier curves were produced to assess the association between strains and cardiac biomarker indices with a composite outcome of all‐cause mortality. With an average follow‐up period of 11 days, 19 patients reached the endpoint (death). Significant associations were found for the three strain parameters and the levels of blood urea nitrogen (BUN) (r = 0.206, 0.221 and 0.355, respectively). Cardiac troponin I (cTnI) was closely related to the GLS and GCS (r = 0.240 and 0.324, respectively). In multivariable Cox regression, GCS > −21.6% was associated with all‐cause death {hazard ratio, 4.007 [95% confidence interval (CI), 11.347–11.919]}.

Conclusions

GLS, GCS and GRS are significantly related to myocardial dysfunction in patients with COVID‐19. Worsening GCS poses an increased risk of death in COVID‐19.
Elasto‐inertial particle focusing in sinusoidal microfluidic channels
Authors: Chen Dalin , Huang Qiang , Ni Zhonghua , Xiang Nan
Published: May 2024

Dean flow existing in sinusoidal channels could enhance the throughput and efficiency for elasto‐inertial particle focusing. However, the fundamental mechanisms of elasto‐inertial focusing in sinusoidal channels are still unclear. This work employs four microfluidic devices with symmetric and asymmetric sinusoidal channels to explore the elasto‐inertial focusing mechanisms over a wide range of flow rates. The effects of rheological property, flow rate, sinusoidal channel curvature, particle size, and asymmetric geometry on particle focusing performance are investigated. It is intriguing to find that the Dean flow makes a substantial contribution to the particle elasto‐inertial focusing. The results illustrate that a better particle focusing performance and a faster focusing process are obtained in the sinusoidal channel with a small curvature radius due to stronger Dean flow. In addition, the particle focusing performance is also related to particle diameter and rheological properties, the larger particles show a better focusing performance than smaller particles, and the smaller flow rate is required for particles to achieve stable focusing at the outlet in the higher concentration of polyvinylpyrrolidone solutions. Our work offers an increased knowledge of the mechanisms of elasto‐inertial focusing in sinusoidal channels. Ultimately, these results provide supportive guidelines into the design and development of sinusoidal elasto‐inertial microfluidic devices for high‐performance focusing.
Mitigation of parasitic leakage current in indoor perovskite photovoltaic modules using porous alumina interlayer
Authors: Jeon Gyeong G. , Lee Da Seul , Choi Min Jun , Seo You‐Hyun , Huang Shujuan , Kim Jong H. , Shin Seong Sik , Kim Jincheol
Published: May 2024

Indoor photovoltaics are limited by their inherently low‐photogenerated carrier density, leading to heightened carrier recombination and adverse leakage currents compared with conventional solar cells operating under 1 sun condition. To address these problems, this work incorporates a porous insulating interlayer (Al2O3) in perovskite devices, which effectively mitigates recombination and parasitic leakage current. A systematic investigation of the relationship between shunt resistance, photocarrier generation, and recombination at different light intensities demonstrates the effectiveness of the alumina interlayer in perovskite solar cells under low‐light conditions. Moreover, the practicability of the alumina interlayer was demonstrated through its successful implementation in a large‐area perovskite solar module (PSM). With bandgap engineering, the optimized PSM achieves a remarkable power conversion efficiency of 33.5% and a record‐breaking power density of 107.3 μW cm−2 under 1000 lux illumination. These results underscore the potential of alumina interlayers in improving energy harvesting performance, particularly in low‐light indoor environments.

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Outpatient management of prolonged seizures and seizure clusters to prevent progression to a higher‐level emergency: Consensus recommendations of an expert working group
Authors: Pina‐Garza Jesus Eric , Chez Michael , Cloyd James , Hirsch Lawrence J. , Kälviäinen Reetta , Klein Pavel , Lagae Lieven , Sankar Raman , Specchio Nicola , Strzelczyk Adam , Toledo Manuel , Trinka Eugen
Published: May 2024

Objective

The management of prolonged seizures (PS) and seizure clusters (SC) is impeded by the lack of international, evidence‐based guidance. We aimed to develop expert recommendations regarding consensus definitions of PS, SC, and treatment goals to prevent progression to higher‐level emergencies such as status epilepticus (SE).

Methods

An expert working group, comprising 12 epileptologists, neurologists, and pharmacologists from Europe and North America, used a modified Delphi consensus methodology to develop and anonymously vote on statements. Consensus was defined as ≥75% voting “Agree”/”Strongly agree.”

Results

All group members strongly agreed that termination of an ongoing seizure in as short a time as possible is the primary goal of rapid and early seizure termination (REST) and that an ideal medication for REST would start to act within 2 min of administration to terminate ongoing seizure activity. Consensus was reached on the terminology defining PS (with proposed thresholds of 5 min for prolonged focal seizures and 2 min for prolonged absence seizures and the convulsive phase of bilateral tonic‐clonic seizures) and SC (an abnormal increase in seizure frequency compared with the individual patient's usual seizure pattern). All group members strongly agreed or agreed that patients who have experienced a PS should be offered a REST medication, and all patients who have experienced a SC should be offered an acute cluster treatment (ACT). Further, when prescribing a REST medication or ACT, a seizure action plan should be agreed upon in consultation with the patient and caregiver.

Significance

The expert working group had a high level of agreement on the recommendations for defining and managing PS and SC. These recommendations will complement the existing guidance for the management of acute seizures, with the possibility of treating them earlier to potentially avoid progression to more severe seizures, including SE.
Unsupervised neural networks for Maxwell fluid flow and heat transfer over a curved surface with nonlinear convection and temperature‐dependent properties
Authors: Ganga Sai , Uddin Ziya , Asthana Rishi
Published: May 2024

Maxwell fluid flow over a curved surface with the impacts of nonlinear convection and radiation, temperature‐dependent properties, and magnetic field are investigated. The governing equations of the physical system are solved using wavelet based physics informed neural network, a machine learning technique. This is an unsupervised method, and the solutions have been obtained without knowing the numerical solution to the problem. Given the nonlinearity of the coupled equations, the methodology used is flexible to implement, and the activation function used improves the accuracy of the solution. We approximate the unknown functions using different neural network models and determine the solution by training the network. The special case of the obtained results is examined with the available results in the literature for validation of the proposed methodology. It is observed that the proposed approach gives reliable results for the analyzed problem of study. Further, an analysis of the influence of flow parameters (deborah number, variable thermal conductivity and viscosity parameter, velocity slip parameter, temperature ratio parameter, suction parameter, and convection parameters) on temperature and fluid flow velocity is carried out. It is observed that as the flow parameter Deborah number, velocity slip parameter, and viscosity parameter increase, there is a decline in velocity and an enhancement in temperature. This study of fluid flow over a curved surface has applications in the polymer industry, which plays an important role in the manufacturing of contact lenses.
Free bus fares, bus use and physical activity: An exploratory cross‐sectional study
Authors: Sharman Melanie J. , Stanesby Oliver , Jose Kim A. , Greaves Stephen , Cleland Verity J.
Published: May 2024

Issue Addressed

Public transport (PT) users often accumulate more physical activity (PA) than private motor vehicle users and financial incentives may increase PT use. Responding to rising petrol prices, from 28 March to 1 May 2022, the Tasmanian government made public bus use fare‐free. This exploratory study examined the perceived impact of fare‐free buses on bus use and PA.

Methods

Tasmanian adults who had used the fare‐free buses (N = 548) completed an online survey (4 May–14 June 2022). Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive and inferential methods and responses to open‐ended questions categorised.

Results

Over the fare‐free period, 46% of participants reported more bus use—average weekly bus trips increased from 3.0 to 4.0 (p < 0.001). Most (81%) participants, including 36% (n = 33/93) who were not previous bus users, planned continued bus use despite financial cost. Total PA was reported higher (36%), the same (60%) and lower (4%) than usual during the fare‐free period. Higher total PA was more common amongst those reporting increased bus use (n = 186/240; 78%). Responses to open‐ended questions revealed: bus use‐related PA gain was through walking to/from bus stops, more frequently attending PA settings (e.g., the gym) and unexpected walking due to bus service limitations; household‐level cost savings, improved travel opportunities and better social/mental health were additional fare‐free benefits.

Conclusions/So What

Fare‐free buses were commonly perceived to increase bus use and PA. Intervention studies would determine if PA and financially incentivised PT have a causal relationship. Individual‐ and societal‐level health economic analysis of free PT is warranted.
Shaping ability of three instrumentation system in moderately curved canals: A micro‐CT study
Authors: Yanık Deniz , Özel Şelale
Published: May 2024

This study aims to compare the shaping ability of three systems using micro‐computed tomography (micro‐CT). Moderately‐curved mesial canals of 36 mandibular molars were assigned to three groups (n = 24); Protaper Next (PTN, 0.25, 0.06), WaveOne Gold (WOG, 0.25, 0.07), TruNatomy (TRN, 0.25, 0.04), and instrumentation was performed. Pre‐ and post‐micro‐CT scans were obtained. Canal volume and surface, structure model index (SMI), centroid shift, canal transportation, and untouched canal were analyzed. One‐way ANOVA and Student's t‐test were used for statistics. There was no difference in SMI, centroid shift, and centering ability between the study groups (p > .05). Removed dentin and canal surface changes were lower in TRN, while untouched dentin walls were higher (p < .05). Cross‐sections became more rounded (p < .05), but not significant between groups (p > .05). Considering the removed dentin by TRN, it can be used in critical dentin thickness, such as the danger zone (DZ). PTN, WOG, and WOG kept the original canal course similarly. Untouched dentin by TRN (41%) was wider than PTN and WOG, consequently, meticulous irrigation is recommended. TRN, which provides a controlled increase in canal volume, can be used in thin dentin such as the DZ, however, its use should be supported by copious irrigation and brushing considering the rate of untouched dentin walls.

Research Highlights

TRN presented a higher untouched dentin wall compared to PTN and WOG.

Canal volume and surface changes were the lowest in the TRN group.

The centering abilities were similar in PTN, WOG, and TRN.
Corticosteroid injections for the treatment of osteoarthritis present a wide spectrum of effects ranging from detrimental to disease‐modifying: A systematic review of preclinical evidence by the ESSKA Orthobiologic Initiative
Authors: Bensa Alessandro , Salerno Manuela , Boffa Angelo , de Girolamo Laura , Laver Lior , Magalon Jérémy , Sánchez Mikel , Tischer Thomas , Filardo Giuseppe
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Aim of this systematic review of preclinical evidence was to determine the effects of intra‐articular corticosteroid (CS) injections in joints affected by osteoarthritis (OA).

Methods

A systematic review was performed on animal studies evaluating intra‐articular CS injections for OA joints. The search was performed on PubMed, Cochrane, and Web of Science databases. A synthesis of the results was performed investigating CS effects by evaluating studies comparing CS with control groups. Morphological, histological, immunohistochemistry evaluations, clinical outcomes, biomarkers and imaging results were evaluated. The risk of bias was assessed according to the Systematic Review Centre for Laboratory Animal Experimentation's tool.

Results

Thirty‐two articles analysing CS effects in OA animal models were included (1079 joints), 18 studies on small and 14 on large animals. CS injections showed overall positive effects in at least one of the outcomes in 68% of the studies, while 16% reported a deleterious effect. CS improved cartilage and synovial outcomes in 68% and 60% of the studies, but detrimental effects were documented in 11% and 20% of the studies, respectively. Clinical parameters evaluated in terms of pain, lameness or joint swelling improved in 63% of the studies but deteriorated in 13%. Evidence is limited on imaging and biomarkers results, as well as on the best CS type, dose, formulation and injection protocol. The risk of bias assessment revealed a 28% low and an 18% high risk of bias.

Conclusion

Intra‐articular CS injections induced a wide range of results on OA joints in experimental animal models, from disease‐modifying and positive effects on pain and joint function at short‐term evaluation to the lack of benefit or even negative effects. This underlines the need to identify more specific indications and treatment modalities to avoid possible detrimental effects while maximising the anti‐inflammatory properties and the benefits of intra‐articular CS in OA joints.

Level of Evidence

Level II.
The pie‐crusting release of the medial collateral ligament in arthroscopic partial meniscectomy is associated with improved clinical outcomes without altering radiological measurements
Authors: Ercan Niyazi , Arıcan Gökhun , Karaçoban Alp , Alemdaroğlu Kadir Bahadır , İltar Serkan
Published: May 2024

Purpose

The aim of this study was to evaluate how the pie‐crusting technique affects clinical and radiological outcomes in patients undergoing arthroscopic partial meniscectomy.

Methods

A total of 68 patients with Kellgren–Lawrence (K‐L) grade 2 who underwent arthroscopic partial meniscectomy between 2015 and 2021 were evaluated and divided into two groups as arthroscopic partial meniscectomy (36 patients) and arthroscopic partial meniscectomy with pie‐crusting (32 patients) according to whether the pie‐crusting technique was applied or not. All patients were evaluated at a minimum 2‐year follow‐up in terms of Lysholm score, Tegner activity score, International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) score and Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) score. To assess the impact of the pie‐crusting technique, radiological measurements were conducted using radiographs taken before and after pie‐crusting, as well as postoperative radiographs.

Results

Lysholm, Tegner, IKDC and VAS scores exhibited statistically significant differences after surgery compared to preoperative evaluations in both groups (p < 0.05). Furthermore, these scores were significantly superior in the arthroscopic partial meniscectomy with pie‐crusting group compared to the arthroscopic partial meniscectomy group at 24 months postoperatively (p < 0.05). While the radiological measurements in the arthroscopic partial meniscectomy with pie‐crusting group showed statistically significant differences before and after pie‐crusting (p < 0.05), no significant difference was observed between before pie‐crusting and 12 and 24 months postoperatively (n.s.).

Conclusion

The current study is the first to demonstrate the true effectiveness of the pie‐crusting technique. The application of the pie‐crusting technique when necessary results in a statistically significant improvement in clinical scores without affecting radiological measurements for patients undergoing arthroscopic partial meniscectomy compared to not utilising it.

Level of Evidence

Level III.
Investigating the Effect of Rheological Parameter Ratios on the Mixing Properties of TPU Blends
Authors: Zheng Yiwen , Wang Jiankang , Wang Chenyang , Li Zhijun , Yang Zuliang
Published: May 2024

In order to investigate the effect of rheological parameter of blends on mixing performance of dynamic mixers, the flow of virtual material (VM)/thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPU) with high and low viscosities in it are simulated. The effect of rheological parameter ratios, including zero shear viscosity ratio (η0VM/η0TPU), relaxation time ratio (λVM/λTPU) and non‐Newtonian index ratio (NVM/NTPU) on pressure drop (Δp), segregation scale (S), and power consumption (P) are analyzed using Taguchi Orthogonal Method, and the effects of rotation speed (n) of the rotor and flow rate ratio (QVM/QTPU) are studied using single factor method. The results indicate η0VM/η0TPU is the most significant factor affecting Δp, S, and P. When η0VM/η0TPU = 1, λVM/λTPU = 1, NVM/NTPU = 1, S of blends reach the minimum value. With n increasing, the influences of QVM/QTPU and viscosity of TPU on S are reduced.
Potentially functional genetic variants in interferon regulatory factor family genes are associated with colorectal cancer survival
Authors: Tong Xiaoxia , Li Chenghui , Ma Li , Wu Di , Liu Yonglei , Zhao Liqin , Wang Mengyun
Published: May 2024

Interferon regulatory factor (IRF) family genes play a critical role in colorectal cancer (CRC) development and impact patient survival. This study evaluated the influence of functional single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in IRF genes on CRC survival, including functional predictions and experimental validations. Multivariate Cox regression analysis identified three linked SNPs as significant survival predictors, with the rs141112353 T/T genotype in the 3′UTR region of IRF6 significantly associated with decreased survival (HR = 1.60, P = 6E–04). Expression quantitative trait loci (eQTL) analysis indicated that the rs141112353 TA > T alteration reduced IRF6 expression. Dual luciferase assays showed lower activity for the T allele in the presence of hsa‐miR‐548ap‐3p. Data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and other databases confirmed lower IRF6 levels in CRC tissues, correlating with worse survival and inversely with M2 macrophage infiltration. In vitro, IRF6 overexpression inhibited CRC cell proliferation and M2 macrophage polarization by downregulating MIF expression. These findings suggest that the IRF6 rs141112353 TA > T variant significantly affects CRC survival, potentially by enhancing miR‐548‐ap‐3p binding affinity.
A non‐local problem for a time‐fractional differential equation with the Hilfer operator on metric graph
Authors: Karimov Erkinjon , Sobirov Zarifboy , Khujakulov Jonibek
Published: May 2024

The main task of the present research is a non‐local boundary value problem for a time‐fractional differential equation involving Hilfer fractional derivative on a metric star graph. The main goal of this work is to stud the uniqueness and the existence of solution of the formulated problem. Using by the method of separation of variables, we find a solution of the investigated problem in the form of the Fourier series. Sufficient classes of given functions, which provide the existence and uniqueness of solution of the considered problem, are defined. Uniqueness of solution is proved, by using a priori estimatesy for the solution.
Temporal changes in lengths of Dolphinfish revealed by sampling at sportfishing tournaments in the southeastern United States
Authors: Rudershausen P. J. , Buckel J. A. , Gregory R. , Stilson G. R. , Dukes A. W. , Gooding E. L. , Runde B. J.
Published: May 2024

Objective

Our objective was to use sportfishing tournament data to determine whether sizes of Dolphinfish Coryphaena hippurus have been changing in the western North Atlantic (WNA) over recent decades.

Methods

We sampled North Carolina, South Carolina, and Florida marine sportfishing tournament landings for Dolphinfish lengths. Linear models were separately fitted to length data for males and females by regressing length against year. A subset of these models (analysis of covariance) considered tournament as a factor.

Result

An analysis of covariance model with a separate regression slope for each tournament provided the best fit to the data for male and female Dolphinfish. Meaningful temporal declines in the length of males and females were found for four of the five tournaments (no changes in length were observed for the fifth tournament). Median total length declines of 168, 105, 103, and 426 mm were predicted for males, and declines of 354, 133, 131, and 246 mm were predicted for females. Declines in the largest observed sizes of Dolphinfish (97.5% confidence limit) were found for most tournament- and sex-specific combinations of data and could suggest excess fishing mortality on the population.

Conclusion

Declines in Dolphinfish size in the WNA region could have ramifications for conservation of the population given that these size changes translate into reduced individual fecundity of female Dolphinfish. Causes of the size decline could be fishing effects, environmental effects, or a combination of these. Reductions in individual size may be occurring simultaneously with declines in abundance identified in other recent research using fishery-dependent data collected in the WNA.
The importance of understanding the multiple dimensions of power in stakeholder participation for effective biodiversity conservation
Authors: Lécuyer L. , Balian E. , Butler J. R. A. , Barnaud C. , Calla S. , Locatelli B. , Newig J. , Pettit J. , Pound D. , Quétier F. , Salvatori V. , Von Korff Y. , Young J. C.
Published: May 2024

Biodiversity conservation are increasingly focused on involving stakeholder engagement, making power a key concept in understanding its success and failure. Power is often conceptualized as unidimensional and coercive, but a multidimensional view better reflects structural power, as well as its productive and enabling potential.

This paper investigates how different dimensions of power in participatory processes affect biodiversity conservation objectives. Six case studies from Europe and Asia‐Pacific were analysed using an adapted framework that explores the interlinkages between ‘power over’ and ‘transformative power’, looking at the scale and space in which power occurs, and analysing in which arenas of power and under which form of expression it appears. The framework distinguishes between the different ways to exert influence (‘power to’, ‘power with’, ‘power within’, ‘power for’), as well as the dynamics of domination and resistance observed in decision‐making (visible power), hidden biases and exclusionary experiences (hidden power), and actions that either reinforce or resist social norms and beliefs (invisible and systematic power).

Focusing on biodiversity, the different arenas of power allow us to go deeper than the surface issues and conflicting interests of diverse participants, regarding for example wildlife, to question underlying power dynamics. Different expressions of power, more specifically the ‘power for’ dimension, allow an understanding of how participants integrate nature and biodiversity in their aspirations. The different levels of power also highlight the need to focus not only on the local level but to analyse how participatory processes are embedded in national, or even international governance in a globalized world. Finally, they shed light on two challenges in participatory processes regarding biodiversity: the representation of non‐human interests (designated here as ‘beyond‐human’ voices), and the integration of multiple forms of knowledge systems.

Synthesis and applications: Integrating power into biodiversity issues involves deconstructing normalized discourses that focus solely on certain more powerful human agents, their interests and scientific knowledge, and creating new narratives, knowledge and embodied practice of learning and action to encompass a wider diversity of voices and views.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Further exploration of cardiac channelopathy and cardiomyopathy genes in stillbirth
Authors: Merc Maja Dolanc , Kotnik Urška , Peterlin Borut , Lovrecic Luca
Published: May 2024

Objective

To explore genetic variation including whole genome copy number variation and sequence analysis of 98 genes associated with pediatric or adult cardiomyopathies, cardiac channelopathies, and sudden death in an unexplained intrauterine fetal death cohort.

Methods

The study population included 55 stillbirth cases that remained unexplained after thorough postmortem examination, excluding maternal, fetal, and placental causes of stillbirth. Molecular karyotyping was performed in 55 cases and the trio exome sequencing approach was applied in 19 cases.

Results

The analysis revealed six rare variants with predicted effects on protein function in six genes (CASQ2, DSC2, KCNE1, LDB3, MYH6, and SCN5A) previously reported in cases of stillbirth or severe early onset pediatric cardiac related phenotypes. When applying strict American College of Genetics and Genomics classification guidelines, these are still variants of uncertain significance.

Conclusions

Several potentially stillbirth‐related genetic variants were detected in our cohort, adding to the growing literature on cardiac phenotype gene variation in stillbirth. However, the mechanisms of action, gene‐gene interaction, and contribution of the uterine environment are still to be deciphered. In order to advance our knowledge of the genetics of unexplained fetal death, there is an evident need for international collaboration and field standardization.
Activation and reaction mechanism of nano‐aluminized explosives under shock wave
Authors: Wang Zhandong , Xiao Chuan , Chen Fang , Wang Shuang , Zhang Liangliang , Chu Qingzhao
Published: May 2024

To investigate the effect of aluminum (Al) nanoparticles on the energy release mechanism of high explosives, a comprehensive analysis was conducted on the mechanical response and chemical reaction mechanism of pure 1,3,5‐Trinitro‐1,3,5‐triazinane (RDX) and nano‐aluminized RDX across varying particle velocities using molecular dynamics simulation. The simulation results show that the velocity of the shock wave which is formed in the explosive increases as the velocity of the particle increases. Notably, detonation was absent when the particle velocity was below 3 km/s, but prominently observed beyond this threshold, accompanied by a diminishing delay in reaction time for aluminum particles as particle velocity increased. After detonation, a localized pressure reduction behind aluminum particles was observed, elucidating the diminished detonation efficacy of aluminized explosives. Furthermore, the introduction of aluminum particles led to a deceleration in the RDX reaction rate, with the emergence of aluminum atomic clusters highlighting previously overlooked gas‐phase reactions that necessitate inclusion in detonation modeling for aluminized explosives.
Mechanism of hot‐spot formation of emulsion explosives sensitized by hydrogen‐storage glass microballoons
Authors: Wang Yixin , Ma Honghao , Shen Zhaowu , Chen Jiping
Published: May 2024

In order to investigate the primary factors influencing hot‐spot formation in emulsion explosives sensitized by hydrogen‐storage glass microballoons (GMBs), we conducted impact calculations on hydrogen‐storage GMBs. The calculations focused on tracking two main mechanisms: the brittle collapse of GMBs and the adiabatic compression of internal gas. Various parameters were considered, including loading pressures, initial porosities, gas types, and initial gas pressures. Our findings indicate that the contribution of brittle collapse to hot‐spot formation is negligible, while adiabatic compression emerges as the predominant intrinsic mechanism for hot‐spot ignition in GMB‐sensitized emulsion explosives. Moreover, we observed that the ignition time remains similar for low‐pressure nitrogen and high‐pressure hydrogen. The addition of hydrogen does not result in an increased number of hot‐spots; however, it elevates the energy of each individual hot‐spot, thereby enhancing power delivery. Optimal selection of GMB size is crucial for hot‐spot formation and hydrogen storage. GMBs that are excessively large are prone to shell breakage, while overly small GMBs have limited hydrogen storage capacity. GMBs within the size range of 20 μm to 100 μm are deemed more suitable for emulsion explosives.
Structural insights into the role of deleterious mutations at the dimeric interface of Toll‐like receptor interferon‐β related adaptor protein
Authors: Verma Shailya , Menon Revathy , Sowdhamini Ramanathan
Published: May 2024

Toll‐like receptors (TLRs) are major players in the innate immune system—recognizing pathogens and differentiating self/non‐self components of immunity. These proteins are present either on the plasma membrane or endosome and recognize pathogens at their extracellular domains. They are characterized by a single transmembrane helix and an intracellular toll‐interleukin‐1 receptor (TIR) domain. Few TIRs directly invoke downstream signaling, while others require other TIR domains of adaptors like TIR domain‐containing adaptor‐inducing interferon‐β (TRIF) and TRIF‐related adaptor molecule (TRAM). On recognizing pathogenic lipopolysaccharides, TLR4 dimerises and interacts with the intracellular TRAM dimer through the TIR domain to recruit a downstream signaling adaptor (TRIF). We have performed an in‐depth study of the structural effect of two mutations (P116H and C117H) at the dimeric interface of the adaptor TRAM, which are known to abrogate downstream signaling. We modeled the structure and performed molecular dynamics studies in order to decipher the structural basis of this effect. We observed that these mutations led to an increased radius of gyration of the complex and resulted in several changes to the interaction energy values when compared against the wild type (WT) and positive control mutants. We identified highly interacting residues as hubs in the WT dimer, and a few such hubs that were lost in the mutant dimers. Changes in the protein residue path, hampering the information flow between the crucial A86/E87/D88/D89 and T155/S156 sites, were observed for the mutants. Overall, we show that such residue changes can have subtle but long‐distance effects, impacting the signaling path allosterically.
Beliefs, Behaviours, and Attitudes Towards Tanning and Melanoma in the Irish Population
Authors: Gallagher Catriona , O’Connor Cathal , Gilhooley Eimear , Bourke John , Murphy Michelle
Published: May 2024

Background

The incidence of melanoma continues to rise in Ireland. Skin cancer prevention campaigns rely on promoting knowledge to improve sun-related behaviour.

Objectives

To explore beliefs, behaviours, and attitudes towards tanning, and confidence in identifying signs of melanoma in the Irish population.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was performed via an online questionnaire, with questions related to tanning, sun exposure, and skin cancer behaviours. Respondents were recruited according to gender, age and geographic region.

Results

The questionnaire was completed by 1043 respondents (response rate 85%). Mean age was 41 years (range 20–72 years). Participants had mixed awareness of risk reduction strategies for melanoma but had high perceived concerns about developing melanoma. However, 48.9% regularly sunbathed when sunny in Ireland and 41.5% had used tanning beds. The most common reason for not photoprotecting while sunbathing was because it prevented tanning. Nearly half (45.9%) of those who sunbathed agreed that it was worth getting sunburned to get a tan, and 69.4% reported feeling and looking better with a tan. Less than half (42.4%) felt confident about what to look for when checking their skin for melanoma.

Conclusions

This study underscores the importance of addressing the cultural and aesthetic aspects of sun-tanning behaviour in skin cancer prevention efforts, as well as increasing awareness of skin cancer signs and self-examination. Further research into the potential addictive nature of UV-seeking behaviour may offer new avenues for intervention and support for individuals who are addicted to tanning.
Understanding and Treating Diabetic Foot Ulcers: Insights into the Role of Cutaneous Microbiota and Innovative Therapies
Authors: Norton Paul , Trus Pavlos , Wang Fengyi , Thornton M. Julie , Chang Chien-Yi
Published: May 2024

Background

Notoriously known as the silent pandemic, chronic, non-healing diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs), pose a significant rate of incidence for amputation and are a major cause of morbidity. Alarmingly, the treatment and management strategies of chronic wounds represent a significant economic and health burden as well as a momentous drain on resources with billions per annum being spent in the US and UK alone. Defective wound healing is a major pathophysiological condition which propagates an acute wound to a chronic wound, further propelled by underlying conditions such as diabetes and vascular complications which are more prevalent amongst the elderly. Chronic wounds are prone to infection, which can exacerbate the condition, occasionally resulting in amputation for the patient, despite the intervention of modern therapies. However, amputation can only yield a 5-year survival rate for 50% of patients, highlighting the need for new treatments for chronic wounds.

Findings

The dynamic cutaneous microbiota is comprised of diverse microorganisms that often aid wound healing. Conversely, the chronic wound microbiome consists of a combination of common skin commensals such as Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis, as well as the opportunistic pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa. These bacteria have been identified as the most prevalent bacterial pathogens isolated from chronic wounds and contribute to prolific biofilm formation decreasing the efficiency of antimicrobials and further perpetuating a hyper-inflammatory state.

Discussion and Conclusion

Here, we review recent advances and provide a new perspective on alternative treatments including phage and microbiome transplant therapies and how the definitive role of the cutaneous microbiota impacts the aetiology of DFUs.
I Single‐Atom Doped P‐Rich CoPn Nanocluster@CoP with Enhanced HER
Authors: Wang Haipeng , Zhang Chao , Zhang Delu , Jiang Lulu , Gao Yongsheng , Zhuang Tao , Lv Zhiguo
Published: May 2024

Constructing I single‐atom (ISA) doped CoP electrocatalyst for HER is extremely challenging and has not been reported to date. Herein, an ISA doping‐phosphatization strategy is proposed to prepare a novel I single‐atom doped P‐rich CoPn nanocluster@CoP electrocatalyst (ISA‐CoPn/CoP) with enhanced HER performance first. ISA‐CoPn/CoP shows a low overpotential of only 44 and 81 mV in 0.5 m H2SO4 solution, to drive a current density of 10 and 100 mA cm−2. ISA and P‐rich CoPn nanocluster show unique synergies, which can optimize the H adsorption energy and accelerate the kinetics of HER in the CoP system. The intermediate I─H bond vibration peak is directly observed through in situ Raman testing, demonstrating that ISA doping helps accelerate the HER process. Additionally, the ΔGH of ISA‐CoPn/CoP is only 0.05 eV by density functional theory (DFT) calculation, which is conducive to H2 evolution.
An Active Virtual Space Vector Modulation Scheme for Three‐Level Neutral‐Point‐Clamped Converters
Authors: Huang Zhen , Zhang Shuhao , Wang Jingyi , Xia Yonghong
Published: May 2024

The performance of neutral‐point‐clamped (NPC) converters is subject to the regulation of neutral point balance. In the literature, researchers have addressed two main modulation methods: the active space vector PWM (SVPWM) technique and the virtual SVPWM (VSVPWM) method. However, those two approaches respectively suffer from reduced DC‐link voltage utilization and poor active regulation capability. To address this, an improved VSVPWM modulation scheme with actively strong voltage regulation capability is proposed in this paper. The fast and precise control of capacitor voltages is achieved by optimizing the synthesis scheme of the virtual vectors. When there is a voltage imbalance, the proposed technique can quickly restore and maintain the capacitor voltage balance till the full DC‐link voltage utilization without affecting the converter output quality. The experimental validation results on the NPC converter have demonstrated the benefits of the proposed active VSVPWM method. © 2024 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan and Wiley Periodicals LLC.
A novel approach to inverse design of wind turbine airfoils using tandem neural networks
Authors: Anand Apurva , Marepally Koushik , Muneeb Safdar M , Baeder James D.
Published: May 2024

The performance of a wind turbine and its efficiency majorly depends on wind‐to‐rotor efficiency. The aerodynamic design of the wind turbine blades using high‐fidelity tools such as adjoint‐computational fluid dynamics (CFD) is accurate but computationally expensive. It becomes impractical when the number of design variables increases for multidisciplinary optimization (MDO). Low‐fidelity tools are computationally cheaper but are not accurate, especially in regions of adverse pressure gradient and reverse flows. Surrogate modeling has been used in many aerodynamic problems. We develop and apply a recent architecture of the deep learning module, tandem neural networks (T‐NNs) for the inverse design of wind turbine airfoils. The T‐NNs trained on CFD data for fully turbulent cases predict not only the performance parameters for the given airfoil geometry but also the airfoil geometry for a given design objective. This framework uses the entire performance polar for inverse design which ensures that the airfoil optimization is not a single‐point optimization problem which is essential for practical design problems. The T‐NNs are also optimized to include multiple constraints like maximum thickness and trailing edge (TE) thickness which is a novel contribution in the field of inverse design using surrogate models. A statistical analysis is also performed to predict a family of airfoil geometries.
The Role of Team Composition in Agile Software Development Education: A Gendered Perspective
Authors: Sæter Gyda Elisa , Stray Viktoria , Almås Steffen , Lindsjørn Yngve
Published: May 2024

Team composition is a critical factor influencing collaboration within agile software development. This study investigates the impact of gender distribution on teamwork quality in software engineering capstone courses. We examined the experiences of 240 students organized into 40 teams during an agile project course. We analyzed two surveys, one conducted before team composition and one at the end of the project work. As much as 91% of the students chose to use the practice of conducting stand-up meetings in their project work and the majority were satisfied with the practice. Further, our analysis reveals that while women tend to engage more in design and men in programming, an increase in the proportion of women within a team correlates with a higher involvement of women in programming tasks. Our findings highlight gender differences in perceptions and experiences related to project involvement in agile software engineering courses.