bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Darwinian Evolution of Self-Replicating DNA in a Synthetic Protocell
Authors: Abil Zhanar , Restrepo Sierra Ana María , Stan Andreea R. , Châne Amélie , del Prado Alicia , de Vega Miguel , Rondelez Yannick , Danelon Christophe
Published: October 2024

Replication, heredity, and evolution are characteristic of Life. We and others have postulated that the reconstruction of a synthetic living system in the laboratory will be contingent on the development of a genetic self-replicator capable of undergoing Darwinian evolution. Although DNA-based life dominates, the in vitro reconstitution of an evolving DNA self-replicator has remained challenging. We hereby emulate in liposome compartments the principles according to which life propagates information and evolves. Using two different experimental configurations supporting intermittent or semi-continuous evolution (i.e., with or without DNA extraction, PCR, and re-encapsulation), we demonstrate sustainable replication of a linear DNA template – encoding the DNA polymerase and terminal protein from the Phi29 bacteriophage – expressed in the ‘protein synthesis using recombinant elements’ (PURE) system. The self-replicator can survive across multiple rounds of replication-coupled transcription-translation reactions in liposomes and, within only ten evolution rounds, accumulates mutations conferring a selection advantage. Combined data from next-generation sequencing with reverse engineering of some of the enriched mutations reveal nontrivial and context-dependent effects of the introduced mutations. The present results are foundational to build up genetic complexity in an evolving synthetic cell, as well as to study evolutionary processes in a minimal cell-free system.
The brain hierarchically represents the past and future during multistep anticipation
Authors: Tarder-Stoll Hannah , Baldassano Christopher , Aly Mariam
Published: October 2024

Memory for temporal structure enables both planning of future events and retrospection of past events. We investigated how the brain flexibly represents extended temporal sequences into the past and future during anticipation. Participants learned sequences of environments in immersive virtual reality. Pairs of sequences had the same environments in a different order, enabling context-specific learning. During fMRI, participants anticipated upcoming environments multiple steps into the future in a given sequence. Temporal structure was represented in the hippocampus and across higher-order visual regions (1) bidirectionally, with graded representations into the past and future and (2) hierarchically, with further events into the past and future represented in successively more anterior brain regions. In hippocampus, these bidirectional representations were context-specific, and suppression of far-away environments predicted response time costs in anticipation. Together, this work sheds light on how we flexibly represent sequential structure to enable planning over multiple timescales.
Seabird nutrients increase coral calcification rates and boost reef carbonate production
Authors: Lange Ines D. , Benkwitt Cassandra E.
Published: October 2024

While excessive anthropogenic nutrient loads are harmful to coral reefs, natural nutrient flows can boost coral growth and reef functions. Here we investigate if seabird-derived nutrient subsidies benefit the growth of two dominant corals on lagoonal reefs, submassive Isopora palifera and corymbose Acropora vermiculata, and if enhanced colony-level calcification rates can increase reef-scale carbonate production. I. palifera and A. vermiculata colonies close to an island with high seabird densities displayed 1.4 and 3.2-times higher linear extension rates, 1.8 and 3.9-times faster planar area increase, and 1.6 and 2.7-times higher calcification rates compared to colonies close to a nearby island with low seabird densities, respectively. While benthic ReefBudget surveys in combination with average coral growth rates did not indicate differences in reef-scale carbonate production across sites, coral carbonate production was 2.2-times higher at the seabird-rich island when using site-specific linear growth rates and skeletal densities. This study shows that seabird-derived nutrients benefit fast-growing branching as well as previously unstudied submassive coral taxa. It also demonstrates that nutrient subsidies benefit colony-scale and reef-scale calcification rates, which underpin important geo-ecological reef functions. Restoring natural nutrient pathways should thus be a priority for island and reef management.
Artificial intelligence for detection of retinal toxicity in chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine therapy using multifocal electroretinogram waveforms
Authors: Kulyabin Mikhail , Kremers Jan , Holbach Vera , Maier Andreas , Huchzermeyer Cord
Published: October 2024

Chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine, while effective in rheumatology, pose risks of retinal toxicity, necessitating regular screening to prevent visual disability. The gold standard for screening includes retinal imaging and automated perimetry, with multifocal electroretinography (mfERG) being a recognized but less accessible method. This study explores the efficacy of Artificial Intelligence (AI) algorithms for detecting retinal damage in patients undergoing (hydroxy-)chloroquine therapy. We analyze the mfERG data, comparing the performance of AI models that utilize raw mfERG time-series signals against models using conventional waveform parameters. Our classification models aimed to identify maculopathy, and regression models were developed to predict perimetric sensitivity. The findings reveal that while regression models were more adept at predicting non-disease-related variation, AI-based models, particularly those utilizing full mfERG traces, demonstrated superior predictive power for disease-related changes compared to linear models. This indicates a significant potential to improve diagnostic capabilities, although the unbalanced nature of the dataset may limit some applications.
Photoredox-catalysed amidyl radical insertion to bicyclo[1.1.0]butanes
Authors: Chintawar Chetan C. , Laskar Ranjini , Rana Debanjan , Schäfer Felix , Van Wyngaerden Nele , Dutta Subhabrata , Daniliuc Constantin G. , Glorius Frank
Published: October 2024

Replacing planar aromatic rings in drug molecules with C(sp3)-rich isosteric mimetics, such as bicyclo[n.1.1]alkanes, can significantly alter their physicochemical and pharmacokinetic properties, often leading to higher clinical success rates. However, unlike a benzene ring, the structurally rigid C(sp3)-rich isosteric mimetics of heteroaromatic rings are rare. Heterobicyclo[n.1.1]alkanes are promising in this regard, but the lack of modular synthetic methods has currently hindered their exploration. We envisioned that the strategic and selective insertion of different heteroatomic units to bicyclo[1.1.0]butanes could offer a highly modular platform to access diverse heterobicyclo[n.1.1]alkanes. Herein we report a photoredox-catalysed highly regioselective and chemoselective insertion of amidyl radicals to bicyclo[1.1.0]butanes, providing direct access to 2-oxa-4-azabicyclo[3.1.1]hept-3-enes. The exit vector analysis shows a geometric resemblance of these C(sp3)-rich heterobicyclic motifs with pyridine and pyrimidine derivatives, suggesting their potential as isosteric mimetics of such medicinally important heterocycles. Additionally, various downstream transformations demonstrate their utility as versatile building blocks in synthetic chemistry.
Attentional shifts bias microsaccade direction but do not cause new microsaccades
Authors: Liu Baiwei , Alexopoulou Zampeta-Sofia , van Ede Freek
Published: October 2024

Brain circuitry that controls where we look also contributes to attentional selection of visual contents outside current fixation, or content within the spatial layout of working memory. A behavioural manifestation of this contribution comes from modulations in microsaccade direction that accompany spatial attention shifts. Here, we address whether such modulations come about because attention shifts trigger new microsaccades or whether, instead, spatial attention only biases the direction of ongoing microsaccades that would have been made whether or not attention was also shifted. We utilised an internal-selective-attention task that has recently been shown to yield robust spatial microsaccade modulations and compared microsaccade rates following colour retrocues that were carefully matched for sensory input, but differed in whether they invited an attention shift or not. If attention shifts trigger new microsaccades then we would expect more microsaccades following attention-directing cues than following neutral cues. In contrast, we found no evidence for an increase in overall microsaccade rate, despite robust modulations in microsaccade direction. This implies that shifting spatial attention biases the direction of ongoing microsaccades without changing the probability of microsaccade occurrence. These findings help to explain why microsaccades and visual-spatial shifts of attention are often correlated but not obligatorily linked.
Generation and interception of bicyclo[3.2.1]oct-2-yne: an experimental and theoretical mechanistic study
Authors: Anderson T. E. , Chabuka Beauty K. , Alabugin Igor V. , Thamattoor Dasan M. , Phillips David Lee
Published: October 2024

Rearrangement of 2-norbornylidene carbene into bicyclo[3.2.1]oct-2-yne shows an unusual preference for migration of a tertiary rather than secondary carbon.
An ionic liquid containing arsonium cation
Authors: Inaba Ryoto , Imai Tomohiro , Kitajima Showa , Kasai Hitoshi , Oka Kouki , Hifumi Ryoyu , Tomita Ikuyoshi , Yoshizawa-Fujita Masahiro , Naka Kensuke , Imoto Hiroaki
Published: October 2024

We report the first arsonium-based ionic liquid, which shows lower viscosity, higher ionic conductivity, and comparable stability to phosphonium-based ones, expanding the range of ionic liquids beyond traditional ammonium and phosphonium cations.
Magnetic-field-controlled positioning of magnetic domain wall in tie-shaped asymmetric nanowire and its application for magnetic field detection
Authors: Yang Xiaoxue , Zhang Xue-Feng , Li Changfeng , Li Huiting
Published: October 2024

A tie-shaped ferromagnetism nanowire, which can be precisely control the position of the domain wall, exhibits ultrafast time response to external magnetic fields, with helpful potential applications for high-frequency magnetic field detection.
Comprehensive characterization of waterlogged archaeological wood by NMR relaxometry, diffusometry, micro-imaging and cryoporometry
Authors: Stagno Valeria , Mankinen Otto , Mailhiot Sarah , Telkki Ville-Veikko , Capuani Silvia
Published: October 2024

The combination of advanced NMR techniques allows to investigate all the dimensional scale of wood (image created with BioRender).
Two-dimensional BiSbTeX2 (X = S, Se, Te) and their Janus monolayers as efficient thermoelectric materials
Authors: Sujata KM , Chauhan Poonam , Verma Nidhi , Solanki Rekha Garg , Kumar Ashok
Published: October 2024

Today, there is a huge need for highly efficient and sustainable energy resources to tackle environmental degradation and energy crisis.
Diffracting molecular matter-waves at deep-ultraviolet standing-light waves
Authors: Simonović Ksenija , Ferstl Richard , Di Silvestro Alfredo , Mayor Marcel , Martinetz Lukas , Hornberger Klaus , Stickler Benjamin A. , Brand Christian , Arndt Markus
Published: October 2024

We demonstrate an optical 266 nm beamsplitter for molecular matter-waves, observing effects of optical molecular properties in the gas phase such as absorption cross section and polarisability.
Mechanism of a novel metal-free carbonic anhydrase
Authors: Yadav Shalini , Kalita Surajit , Dubey Kshatresh Dutta
Published: October 2024

Depiction of the selective positional transfer of the substrate CO2 between the hydrophilic and hydrophobic zones within the 'bipolar' active site of metal-free carbonic anhydrase enzyme.
Multi-level chiral edge states in Janus M2XS2Se2 (M = V, Ti; X = W, Mo) monolayers with high Curie temperature and sizable nontrivial topological gaps
Authors: Deng Li , Yin Xiang , Wu Yanzhao , Tong Junwei , Qin Gaowu , Zhang Xianmin
Published: October 2024

Janus single-layer M2XS2Se2 (M = V, Ti; X = W, Mo) exhibit quantum anomalous Hall (QAH) effect with multi-level chiral edge states, providing an idea platform for the exploration of novel topological materials.
Accelerating metal–organic framework discovery via synthesisability prediction: the MFD evaluation method for one-class classification models
Authors: Zhang Chi , Antypov Dmytro , Rosseinsky Matthew J. , Dyer Matthew S.
Published: October 2024

The maximum fraction difference (MFD) method for evaluating OCC model performance without needing negative data for validation and its implementation in MOFs synthesisability prediction.
Revitalisation of group IV metal-oxo clusters: synthetic approaches, structural motifs and applications
Authors: Passadis Stamatis S. , Gray Mark , Parac-Vogt Tatjana N. , Keramidas Anastasios D. , Miras Haralampos N. , Kabanos Themistoklis A.
Published: October 2024

Group (IV) metal oxo clusters is a unique family of molecular species utilized in applications ranging from catalysis and materials chemistry to electronics, and sensors.
Metabolic response of lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) to polystyrene nanoplastics and microplastics after foliar exposure
Authors: Li Min , Wei Jing-Han , Wei Bing-Ke , Chen Zi-Qi , Liu Hai-Long , Zhang Wan-Ying , Li Xin-Yu , Zhou Dong-Mei
Published: October 2024

Foliar exposure to polystyrene nanoplastics and microplastics exerted varied effects on the metabolism of lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.).
Gastroprotective effects of Pediococcus acidilactici GKA4 and Lactobacillus brevis GKL93 against ethanol-induced gastric ulcers via regulation of the immune response and gut microbiota in mice
Authors: Huang Yun-En , Chen Sheng-Yi , Li Tsung-Ju , Tsai You-Shan , Chen Chin-Chu , Yen Gow-Chin
Published: October 2024

Pediococcus acidilactici GKA4 and Lactobacillus brevis GKL93 exert gastroprotective effects against ethanol-induced gastric ulcers through multiple mechanisms.
Photo- and electro-chemical synthesis of substituted pyrroles
Authors: Huang Binbin
Published: October 2024

This review critically summarizes the methodological advancements in both photo- and electro-chemical pyrrole synthesis, and categorizes them based on the utilized N-containing precursors.
Fast analysis of metal components in coal dust using spark emission spectroscopy
Authors: Li Jialin , Huang Jing , Zheng Lina , Naz Shakila , Liu Xutong
Published: October 2024

We present a fast method based on spark emission spectroscopy to quantify metal components such as Al, Si, Fe, Ca, and Ti in airborne coal dust.
Self-actuated microfluidic chiplet for two-stage multiplex nucleic acid amplification assay
Authors: Ansah Felix , Hajialyani Marziyeh , Ahmadi Fatemeh , Gu Yuming , Tarım Ergün Alperay , Mauk Michael G. , Awandare Gordon A. , Bau Haim H.
Published: October 2024

Self-actuated chiplet for Penn-RAMP assay.
Contrasting interchain order and mixed ionic–electronic conduction in conjugated polymers: an isoindigo case study
Authors: Meacham Rebecca F. , Roh Heejung , Cunin Camille E. , Lee Eric R. , Li Wenhao , Zhao Yan , Samal Sanket , Gumyusenge Aristide
Published: October 2024

Using isoindigo-based polymers, this study investigates mixed ionic–electronic conduction in highly ordered conjugated polymers by systematically incorporating polar side chains, which promote ion insertion while preserving interchain stacking.
Characterization of reactively sputter deposited CuCrO2 thin films using Cu and Cr targets
Authors: Bharath Akash Hari , Sundaram Kalpathy B.
Published: October 2024

XRD diffractograms of films deposited at varying copper powers and annealed at 800 °C.
Design, synthesis, and biological evaluation of pyrazole–ciprofloxacin hybrids as antibacterial and antibiofilm agents against Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Ommi Ojaswitha , Dhopat Priyanka Sudhir , Sau Shashikanta , Estharla Madhu Rekha , Nanduri Srinivas , Kalia Nitin Pal , Yaddanapudi Venkata Madhavi
Published: October 2024

A series of pyrazole–ciprofloxacin hybrids were designed, synthesized, and tested for antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Mycobacterium tuberculosis, aiming to combat antibiotic resistance.
Functional antimicrobial peptide-loaded 3D scaffolds for infected bone defect treatment with AI and multidimensional printing
Authors: Li Mengmeng , Zhao Peizhang , Wang Jingwen , Zhang Xincai , Li Jun
Published: October 2024

Infection is the most prevalent complication of fractures, particularly in open fractures, and often leads to severe consequences.
Sustained hypoxia but not intermittent hypoxia induces HIF-1α transcriptional response in human aortic endothelial cells
Authors: Cetin-Atalay Rengul , Meliton Angelo Y. , Tian Yufeng , Sun Kaitlyn A. , Woods Parker S. , Shin Kun Woo D. , Cho Takugo , Gileles-Hillel Alex , Hamanaka Robert B , Mutlu Gökhan M.
Published: October 2024

This study investigates how endothelial cells respond to sustained (SH) and intermittent (IH) hypoxia, a hallmark of obstructive sleep apnea. HIF-1α was induced by SH but not by IH. SH and IH activate distinct transcriptional responses.
MoS2 quantum dot-decorated CNT networks as a sulfur host for enhanced electrochemical kinetics in advanced lithium–sulfur batteries
Authors: Wei Meng , Lu Hanqing , Wang Zhen , Lu Baowen , Wang Pengtao , Zhang Xinxin , Feng Bingjie , Xie Yingjie , Zhang Tao , Liu Guanghui , Xu Song
Published: October 2024

Schematic illustration of the synthesis process of MoS2 QDs-CNTs/S@NH composites.
Improved electrical and thermoelectric properties of electrodeposited Bi1−xSbx nanowire networks by thermal annealing
Authors: Piraux Luc , Marchal Nicolas , Van Velthem Pascal , da Câmara Santa Clara Gomes Tristan , Araujo Flavio Abreu , Ferain Etienne , Issi Jean-Paul , Antohe Vlad-Andrei
Published: October 2024

A brief annealing process enables the properties of flexible thermoelectric nanocomposites based on three-dimensional networks of electrodeposited bismuth-antimony nanowires to tend towards those of the corresponding bulk materials.
Anti-counterfeiting labels of photonic crystals with versatile structural colors
Authors: Minh Nguyen Hoang , Kim Kwanoh , Kang Do Hyun , Yoo Yeong-Eun , Yoon Jae Sung
Published: October 2024

Labels with covert-overt structural color based on photonic crystals (PCs) have drawn significant attention due to their unique color emission, offering promising solutions for anti-counterfeiting applications.
Lasing in an assembled array of silver nanocubes
Authors: Juodėnas Mindaugas , Khinevich Nadzeya , Klyvis Gvidas , Henzie Joel , Tamulevičius Tomas , Tamulevičius Sigitas
Published: October 2024

Mass produced monocrystalline silver nanocubes assembled on a large scale into lattices in a structured template support lasing modes with excellent characteristics.
Semiconductor nanowire heterodimensional structures toward advanced optoelectronic devices
Authors: Yan Xin , Li Yao , Zhang Xia
Published: October 2024

This review paper provides an overview of the fabrication, properties and optoelectronic applications of nanowire heterodimensional structures including nanowire/quantum well, nanowire/quantum dot, and nanowire/2D-material.
A chlorine-free microwave-assisted, ionic liquid-catalyzed esterification of arylsulfonic acids with alcohols: an experimental and theoretical study
Authors: Huszár Bianka , Mucsi Zoltán , Keglevich György
Published: October 2024

The MW-assisted IL-catalyzed esterification of phosphinic acids, the esterification of arylsulfonic acids was developed applying a 14-fold excess of the alcohols at 200 °C in the presence of 10% bmim PF6 as an additive.
Synthesis and structure of chlororuthenacyclopentatriene
Authors: Chu Zhenwei , Peng Zhishun , Cheng Xu , Hua Yuhui , He Guomei , Chen Jiangxi , Jia Guochen
Published: October 2024

Chlororuthenacyclopentatriene, representing a new member of the ruthenaaromatic family, was successfully prepared using the reactions of RuCl2(PPh3)3 with o-phenyldiyne derivatives in the presence of excess HCl.
Water-stable zero-dimensional hybrid zinc halide modulated by π–π interactions: efficient blue light emission and third-order nonlinear optical response
Authors: Li Jia-Wei , Dong Wenke , Liu Yanjie , Li Yuhan , Qiao Lu-Yuan , Liu Guang-Lu , Zhang Hui , Wang Chunjie , Zheng Hui-Li , Zhao Jian-Qiang
Published: October 2024

Waterproof 0D hybrid Zn halide with highly efficient blue emission and third-order nonlinear optical response was constructed by the microregulating of π–π interactions, offering new insights for designing stable multifunctional halide materials.
Channelization of cathode/electrolyte interphase to enhance the rate-capability of LiCoO2
Authors: Li Liewu , Huang Zhencheng , Yuan Qi , Wang Hongbin , Yang Xuming , Chen Chufang , Gong Xiaoyu , Jiang Qianqian , Chen Jing , Ouyang Xiaoping , Wang Jionghui , He Liqing , Ren Xiangzhong , Hu Jiangtao , Zhang Qianling , Liu Jianhong
Published: October 2024

The LiCoO2@ZrP2O7 cathode was fabricated employing an in situ surface coating technique, which significantly enhanced both the rate capability and structural stability of the LiCoO2 cathode.
Palladium-catalyzed hydrocarbonylative cross-coupling with two different alkenes
Authors: Chen Yi , Wu Jianing , Ding Yongzheng , Huang Hanmin
Published: October 2024

Transition metal-catalyzed hydrocarbonylation of alkenes has been widely studied; however, the hydrocarbonylation reaction that took place between two alkenes has been largely unexplored.
Thermal investigation of NbSe2 nanoparticles synthesized through a temperature-dependent sonochemical method
Authors: Bharucha Shivani R. , Dave Mehul S. , Chaki Sunil H. , Limbani Tushar A.
Published: October 2024

Due to their unique size-dependent properties, transition metal di-chalcogenide nanoparticles are trending in research for their potential to revolutionize next-generation electronics, energy storage, and catalytic processes.
Mechanically induced cationic reversible addition–fragmentation chain transfer polymerization of vinyl ethers
Authors: Zhang Longfei , Zou Xiuyang , Ding Chengqiang , Wang Zhao
Published: October 2024

The cationic RAFT polymerization of vinyl ethers, driven by a mechanoredox process, has been successfully demonstrated, allowing for the synthesis of well-defined poly(vinyl ether) under solvent-free and ambient conditions.
An ultrathin phase-inversion induced co-assembly separator for high-performance lithium-metal batteries
Authors: Wang Yuying , Guo Fanjun , Zhou Mengzhen , Wu Qian , You Tao , Zhong Zhengxiang , Yang Jiankun , Liu Li , Huang Yudong , Wang Mingqiang
Published: October 2024

An ultra-thin composite separator, consisting of ANF, MPS–HGO and MA–POSS, not only acts as a physical obstacle but also efficiently regulates Li-ion transport to hinder irregular dendritic growth.
The fluorescence distinction of chiral enantiomers: a Zn coordination polymer sensor for the detection of cinchonine and cinchonidine
Authors: Hu Wenping , Wu Nan , Li Dechao , Yang Yefang , Qie Shaowen , Su Shuai , Xu Ruijie , Li Wenting , Hu Ming
Published: October 2024

A Zn coordination polymer was constructed to identify chiral cinchonine and cinchonidine with high sensitivity, selectivity, and reproducibility.
Incidence of Self-Reported Bothersome Tinnitus Versus Tinnitus Diagnosis Among U.S. Army Soldiers
Authors: Sherlock LaGuinn P. , Gibson Kelly J. , Talian Daniel S. , Lake Deborah C.
Published: October 2024

Purpose:

U.S. Army Soldiers undergo annual audiometric surveillance to facilitate prevention of auditory injury. Soldiers are screened for bothersome tinnitus and subsequently referred for a clinical audiological evaluation as warranted. Presumably, most Soldiers seen in the clinic for bothersome tinnitus receive a tinnitus diagnosis. The incidence of self-reported bothersome tinnitus at the time of annual audiometric surveillance and subsequent diagnosis of tinnitus in the medical record has not been examined to date. This study estimated the incidence of tinnitus diagnosis in a population of Soldiers who reported new onset bothersome tinnitus and explored trends associated with tinnitus diagnosis to refine hearing health education.

Method:

A subset of hearing conservation records retrieved for a previous study were selected based on change in self-reporting of bothersome tinnitus. Corresponding medical records were retrieved for this sample of Active Duty (AD) Soldiers. The data were retrospectively examined, and analyses were conducted to identify statistically significant differences between Soldiers with and Soldiers without a tinnitus diagnosis. In addition, trend patterns of bothersome tinnitus and significant threshold shift (STS) were examined.

Results:

Of the sample of 730,350 AD Soldiers, 16.7% self-reported new onset bothersome tinnitus and 7.1% of those recorded as having bothersome tinnitus had a diagnosis of tinnitus in their medical record. Soldiers with a tinnitus diagnosis were older and had higher pure-tone averages than Soldiers without a tinnitus diagnosis. Counterintuitively, overall trend percentages of bothersome tinnitus increased per calendar year, while the percentages of STS decreased throughout the study period.

Conclusions:

The rate of tinnitus diagnosis in the medical record is vastly lower than the prevalence of bothersome tinnitus recorded in the annual surveillance system. Steps should be taken to screen, refer, and diagnose tinnitus more consistently. Based on the outcome of the study analysis, we recommend that screening for bothersome tinnitus more closely follows procedure recommendations from the Department of Veterans Affairs and Department of Defense (VA/DOD) Tinnitus Working Group, which may reduce the rate at which Soldiers report bothersome tinnitus.
Understanding Tinnitus Clinical Care in the Veterans Health Administration and Department of Defense: Overview of Survey Results
Authors: Boudin-George Amy , Cesario Erin , Edmonds Catherine , Thielman Emily J. , Henry James A. , Clark Khaya
Published: October 2024

Purpose:

In 2021, the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) and Department of Defense (DOD) Tinnitus Working Group conducted a survey of DOD and VHA clinicians to evaluate clinical services provided for tinnitus.

Method:

The online survey included a mix of multiple-choice and open-ended questions. Respondents included VHA and DOD health care providers in audiology, otolaryngology, mental health, and primary care, as well as DOD hearing conservation technicians. Quantitative and qualitative methods were used to analyze the data.

Results:

A total of 669 providers responded to this combined survey. Results indicated that compared to DOD and VHA providers in other fields, audiologists tended to be more confident and more aware of their role in tinnitus management. In terms of confidence and scope of practice, DOD mental health care providers were the group least familiar with tinnitus care. Other results explored herein include barriers to tinnitus care, facilitators for progressive tinnitus management programs, interventions and patient materials offered, new patient materials wanted, and respondents' preferred information sources and training methods.

Conclusion:

Survey results indicated that more directed education and support are needed to increase DOD and VHA clinicians' awareness of the need for tinnitus services and their roles in providing that care.

Supplemental Material:

https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.27229215
Models and applications of stochastic programming with decision‐dependent uncertainty in power systems: A review
Authors: Yin Wenqian , Hou Yunhe
Published: October 2024

Stochastic programming is a competitive tool in power system uncertainty management. Traditionally, stochastic programming assumes uncertainties to be exogenous and independent of decisions. However, there are situations where statistical features of uncertain parameters are not constant but dependent on decisions, classifying such uncertainties as decision‐dependent uncertainty (DDU). This is particularly the case with future power systems highly penetrated by multi‐source uncertainties, where planning or operation decisions might exert unneglectable impacts on uncertainty features. This paper reviews the stochastic programming with DDU, especially those applied in the field of power systems. Mathematical properties of diversified types of DDU in stochastic programming are introduced, and a comprehensive review on sources and applications of DDU in power systems is presented. Then, focusing on a specific type of DDU, that is, decision‐dependent probability distributions, a taxonomy of available modelling techniques and solution approaches for stochastic programming with this type of DDU and different structural features are presented and discussed. Eventually, the outlook of two‐stage stochastic programming with DDU for future power system uncertainty management is explored, including both exploring the applications and developing efficient modelling and solution tools.
The chemical evolution of the Milky Way thin disk using solar twins
Authors: Plotnikova A. , Spina L. , Ratcliffe B. , Casali G. , Carraro G.
Published: October 2024

Aims. In this study we address whether the age-metallicity relation (AMR) deviates from the expected trend of metallicity increasing smoothly with age. We also show the presence (or absence) of two populations, as recently claimed using a relatively small dataset. Moreover, we studied the Milky Way thin disk’s chemical evolution using solar twins, including the effect of radial migration and accretion events.

Methods. In particular, we exploited high-resolution spectroscopy of a large sample of solar twins in tandem with an accurate age determination to investigate the Milky Way thin disk age-metallicity relationship. Additionally, we derived the stars’ birth radius and studied the chemical evolution of the thin disk.

Results. We discovered that statistical and selection biases can lead to a misinterpretation of the observational data. An accurate accounting of all the uncertainties led us to detect no separation in the AMR into different populations for solar twins around the Sun (−0.3 < [Fe/H] < 0.3 dex). This lead us to the conclusion that the thin disk was formed relatively smoothly. For the main scenario of the Milky Way thin disk formation, we suggest that the main mechanism for reaching today’s chemical composition around the Sun is radial migration with the possible contribution of well-known accretion events such as Gaia-Enceladus/Sausage (GES) and Sagittarius (Sgr).
Affordable wide-band measurement ecosystem for musical acoustics based on electro-dynamic transducers
Authors: Ausiello Ludovico , Ducceschi Michele , Duran Sebastian , Morrison Benjamin
Published: October 2024

The variability in responses of acoustic instruments can be attributed to a combination of fluctuations in critical parameters of wood, such as density, stiffness, and strength, and design features such as body shapes or bracing geometries. Recent studies have successfully implemented the sine sweep method with small exciters to measure the acoustic response of guitars, yielding frequency responses with high coherence over a bandwidth reaching up to 8 kHz. This paper proposes validating a cost-effective measurement system which integrates electro-dynamic transducers and wide-band test signals (sine sweep and noise) against the traditional impact hammer method in the case of unbraced plates. Data from four actuators of different size and power will be presented together with a simple strategy to assess reliable and neutral excitation points, thanks to two complementary models which describe the interaction between exciter and plate. The paper will then showcase the applications of this measurement system in two scenarios. The first case study will focus on a cost-effective method for selecting acoustic wood, while the second will explore experimental real-time spectral analysis using pink noise. These case studies demonstrate the measurement system’s adaptability and immediacy, providing valuable insights for enhancing the design and performance of acoustic instruments.
On interpolation spaces of piecewise polynomials on mixed meshes
Authors: Karkulik Michael , Melenk Jens Markus , Rieder Alexander
Published: October 2024

We consider fractional Sobolev spaces Hθ, θ ∈ (0, 1), on 2D domains and H1-conforming discretizations by globally continuous piecewise polynomials on a mesh consisting of shape-regular triangles and quadrilaterals. We prove that the norm obtained from interpolating between the discrete space equipped with the L2-norm on the one hand and the H1-norm on the other hand is equivalent to the corresponding continuous interpolation Sobolev norm, and the norm-equivalence constants are independent of meshsize and polynomial degree. This characterization of the Sobolev norm is then used to show an inverse inequality between H1 and Hθ.
Patientenschulung Osteoporose – zentraler Bestandteil des
DMP
Authors: Niedhart Christopher , Maus Uwe
Published: October 2024

Patientenschulungen spielen eine entscheidende Rolle bei der Prävention und
Behandlung von chronischen Erkrankungen. Die Schulung von PatientInnen mit
Osteoporose im Rahmen des DMP Osteoporose ist ein wichtiger Baustein zur
Prophylaxe und Therapie der Osteoporose bzw. osteoporotischer Frakturen im Sinne
der Verbesserung der persönlichen Gesundheitskompetenz. Sie dienen insbesondere
der Befähigung der Patienten zur besseren Bewältigung des Krankheitsverlaufs und
zur selbstverantwortlichen Umsetzung wesentlicher Therapiemaßnahmen. Die
Patientenschulung Osteoporose besteht aus fünf Modulen zu den Themen Grundlage
der Osteoporose und des Knochenstoffwechsels, Diagnostik, Therapieentscheidung,
Knochen-gesunde Ernährung und Bewegung und körperliche Aktivität. Als Trainer im
Rahmen der Patientenschulung Osteoporose können Ärzte und medizinische
Fachangestellte tätig werden, die im Rahmen eines Trainerseminars der OSTAK
ausreichend geschult wurden und die Prüfung erfolgreich abgeschlossen haben. Mit
dem Schulungsprogramm Osteoporose steht eine vom Bundesamt für soziale Sicherung
(BAS) akkreditierte Patientenschulung für das DMP Osteoporose zur Verfügung.
Über den Dachverband Osteologie und die OSTAK sind bisher über 300 Schulende
erfolgreich ausgebildet worden. Ohne die Entwicklung dieser Schulung wäre die
Umsetzung des DMP Osteoporose nicht möglich gewesen.
Einsatz von langwirksamen Dreifachkombinationen in der Praxis zur Therapie der chronisch-obstruktiven Lungenerkrankung (COPD) – Die ELETHON-Versorgungsstudie
Authors: Beeh Kai-Michael , Krüger Saskia
Published: October 2024

Hintergrund Studiendaten weisen auf Versorgungslücken im COPD-Langzeitmanagement mit Diskrepanzen zwischen Leitlinienempfehlungen und deren praktischer Umsetzung hin. Die Gründe sind nur unzureichend bekannt. Ziel der ELETHON-Arztbefragung war die Erfassung ärztlicher Einstellungen und Meinungen zu allgemeinen Konzepten der COPD-Therapie, und im Speziellen zur Initiierung einer inhalativen Dreifachtherapie.

Methodik ELETHON war eine bundesweit durchgeführte Querschnittstudie im ambulanten Sektor bei Hausärzten und Pneumologen unter Verwendung eines strukturierten Fragebogens (17 geschlossene Single- bzw. Multiple-Choice-Fragen) zu den Themen Sekundärprävention, Erfassung von Exazerbationen, Therapieeskalation, Auswahl von inhalativen Dreifachtherapien und Prüfung des Therapieerfolgs bei COPD.

Ergebnisse Fragebögen von n=2028 Hausärzten (HA) und n=371
Pneumologen (FA) wurden ausgewertet. Beide Gruppen weisen der Sekundärprävention bei COPD
einen hohen Stellenwert zu (HA/FA 76,4%/90,6%), mit Prüfung von Inhalationstechnik, Impfstatus
und adäquater inhalativer Pharmakotherapie als wichtigste Bausteine. Aktivität/Rehabilitation
wurde bei Hausärzten deutlich seltener genannt (48,3 vs. 84,5%). Exazerbationen und
Symptomverschlechterung gelten als dominierende Parameter für eine Therapieeskalation, werden
jedoch mehrheitlich unsystematisch erfasst. Als Schwelle wurden „Hospitalisierung“ und „≥2
ambulante Exazerbationen“ am häufigsten genannt. Eosinophile werden mehrheitlich nicht
bestimmt. Bei der Auswahl von Dreifachtherapien werden Festkombinationen bevorzugt, die
Verfügbarkeit im gleichen Inhalator wie eine Mono- oder duale Therapie als wichtig betont. Der
Therapieerfolg wird anhand von Exazerbationen, Lebensqualität, Symptomen, Lungenfunktion und
Bedarfsmedikation bewertet. Der COPD Assessment Test (CAT)-Score kommt nur bei wenigen HA/FA
zum Einsatz.

Diskussion und Schlussfolgerung Die ELETHON-Arztbefragung zeigt Lücken im COPD-Management auf. Das Konzept der Sekundärprävention wird als wichtig angesehen, dennoch erfolgt eine Therapieeskalation eher spät. Die Bedeutung des Impfstatus deckt sich nicht mit aktuellen Impfquoten, nicht-pharmakologische Maßnahmen werden unzureichend genutzt. Die Erfassung von Exazerbationen und Symptomatik erfolgt unsystematisch; validierte Fragebögen und Eosinophile haben nur einen untergeordneten Stellenwert. ELETHON liefert wichtige Erkenntnisse zu Barrieren und versteckten Potenzialen im Versorgungsalltag der COPD bei Haus- und Fachärzten in Deutschland.
Ventilatory thresholds in professional female soccer
players
Authors: Parpa Koulla , Michaelides Marcos A.
Published: October 2024

This study investigated the ventilatory thresholds (VT1 and VT2) along with the
corresponding heart rates, velocities and % of V̇O2 max at which
these thresholds are reached in professional female soccer players. It also
examined positional differences in the aforementioned parameters. Thirty-three
professional players from two teams (age range 18–31 years) were recruited. The
players underwent maximal exercise testing on the treadmill for the detection of
VT1 (V̇E versus V̇O2 plot) and VT2 (V̇E versus V̇CO2
plot). The test began at a speed of 6km/h and was increased by 2 km/h every 3.15
minutes, with the inclination constant at 1%. Results indicated that the players
had an average V̇O2 max of 50.24
ml·kg− 1.min− 1. VT1 (% max) and VT2 (% max) were
shown at 72.87% and 91.26% of V̇O2 max, respectively. The respective
velocities at VT1 and VT2 were indicated at 10.85 km/h and 12.91 km/h,
respectively, while the average VV̇O2 max was 14.61 km/h. The average
heart rates at VT1, VT2 and V̇O2 max were 159.33, 185.15 and 192.85
beats per minute, respectively. Furthermore, analysis of variance ANOVA
indicated significant differences in velocity at V̇O2max. This study
provides important normative data regarding the ventilatory thresholds of female
soccer players.
N-Alkyl Isofagomine Lactams: Synthesis, Glycosidase Inhibition, and Antimicrobial Assessments
Authors: López Óscar , Lindbäck Emil , Moreń Monika , Pereira Lourenço Ana Laura , Cerdà-Cuéllar Marta , Kochanowski Karl , Jørgensen Kåre B. , Sydnes Magne O.
Published: October 2024

A series of six N-alkyl isofagomine lactam derivatives is synthesized over ten steps from d-arabinose. The compounds are evaluated as glycosidase inhibitors. It was found that the N-alkyl groups have a detrimental effect on the glycosidase inhibition activities, as the prepared N-alkyl isofagomine lactam derivatives are much less potent glycosidase inhibitors than native isofagomine lactam.
Giant Olfactory Groove Meningiomas: A Case Series Demonstrating the Surgical Management and Functional Outcomes
Authors: Elbadry Ashraf , Abdelazeez Azza , Badran Mohamed
Published: October 2024

Objective Giant olfactory groove meningiomas (OGMs) present technical challenges in their management, especially when their size and location complicate the evaluation and planning process, making complete removal difficult. This study provides a comprehensive analysis of the surgical approaches and outcomes encountered in the management of giant OGMs at a single institution.

Materials and Methods This retrospective study evaluated surgical and functional outcomes in 71 patients diagnosed with giant OGMs larger than 6 cm. Tumors were excised using microsurgical resection via the bifrontal, pterional, or combined pterional and unifrontal approaches.

Results The study comprised 48 females (67.6%) and 23 males (32.4%), with a mean age of 54.1 years. The most common pathological type was meningothelial meningioma (45%). The bifrontal approach was the most frequently used (n = 47, 66.2%) and resulted in Simpson grade I or II resection in 41 patients (87.2%). The combined pterional and unifrontal approaches were used in 16 patients (22.5%), achieving Simpson grade I or II resection in 12 (75%). The pterional approach was the least commonly used (n = 8), with Simpson grade I or II resection achieved in 50% of these patients. Postoperatively, visual acuity and cognitive function improved during follow-up. Postoperative complications were frequently observed after the bifrontal approach. Three patients (4.2%) died.

Conclusion The bifrontal approach resulted in better resection of giant OGMs than other approaches but was associated with more complications. The combined pterional and unifrontal approach was superior to the pterional approach in terms of OGM resection, with no differences in complication rates. Significant postoperative improvements in functional outcomes, including visual acuity and cognitive function, were observed.
An in situ combustion carbon deposit diagnostic instrument based on Raman microscopy
Authors: Tian Zhen-Yu , Jin Kai-Ru , Kuang Jiu-Jie
Published: October 2024

Carbon deposit of the aero-engine combustor, resulting from incomplete combustion and fuel pyrolysis, can cause nozzle blockage, fuel consumption increase, power decrease, and even flight unsafety. In this work, an in situ combustion carbon deposit diagnostic instrument is developed to reveal the crystalline structure and the changes under real combustion conditions. The instrument integrates the in situ microscopic Raman technique and the combustion system. The burner is characterized by a sloping tip, making it possible to observe the coke from the side view. The burner is installed to the optical positioning stage by a specially made adapter so that the relative location is fixed and it is possible to observe the carbon deposit from the ignition. The carbon deposit of acetylene/air diffusion jet flame was studied. A 50× objective lens was used to collect the Raman scattering signal of carbon deposits continuously 30 s after ignition. A five-band model was used to fit the Raman spectra. The time-resolved information was calculated, including the normalized total area, area proportion, peak ratio, and crystalline size. The results show that the carbon deposit of acetylene flames with different velocities presents different tendencies of formation and degree of graphitization, which is attributed to the influence of temperature and flow. The performance of this system is evaluated quantitatively. The signal-to-noise ratio of Raman spectra of carbon deposits ranges from 6.4 to 28.9. This work provides an in situ method to analyze the dynamic change of carbon deposit on the burner, and further work is needed to reveal the mechanism.
Identifying, quantifying, and mitigating background with the time-resolved x-ray diffraction platform at the National Ignition Facility
Authors: Benedetti L. R. , Palmer N. E. , Vennari C. E. , Nyholm P. R. , Eggert J. H. , Carpenter A. C. , Bhandarkar N. , Bradley D. K. , MacKinnon A. J. , Nagel S. R. , Ping Y. , Stan C. V. , Trosseille C.
Published: October 2024

The time-resolved x-ray diffraction platform at the National Ignition Facility (NIF) fields electronic sensors closer to the exploding laser-driven target than any other NIF diagnostic in order to directly detect diffracted x rays from highly compressed materials. We document strategies to characterize and mitigate the unacceptably high background signals observed in this geometry. We specifically assess the possible effects of electromagnetic pulse, x-ray fluorescence, hot electrons, and sensor-specific non-x-ray artifacts. Significant background reduction is achieved by strategic shielding.
Measurements of K-edge and L-edge extended x-ray absorption fine structure at the national ignition facility (invited)
Authors: Sio H. , Krygier A. , Stoupin S. , Rudd R. E. , Bonev S. A. , Braun D. G. , Coppari F. , Coleman A. L. , Bhandarkar N. , Bitter M. , Bradley D. K. , Buscho J. , Corbin J. , Dozieres M. , Efthimion P. C. , Eggert J. H. , Gao L. , Hill K. W. , Hamel S. , Hsing W. , Kozioziemski B. , Kraus B. F. , Landen O. L. , Le Galloudec K. , Lockard T. E. , Mackinnon A. , May M. , McNaney J. M. , Ose N. , Pablant N. , Park H.-S. , Riddles J. , Sharma M. , Schneider M. B. , Stan C. , Thompson N. , Thorn D. B. , Vonhof S. , Ping Y.
Published: October 2024

High-energy-density laser facilities and advances in dynamic compression techniques have expanded access to material states in the Terapascal regime relevant to inertial confinement fusion, planetary science, and geophysics. However, experimentally determining the material temperature in these extreme conditions has remained a difficult challenge. Extended X-ray Absorption Fine Structure (EXAFS), referring to the modulations in x-ray absorption above an absorption edge from photoelectrons’ interactions with neighboring atoms, has proven to be a versatile and robust technique for probing material temperature and density for mid-to-high Z elements under dynamic compression. The current platform at the National Ignition Facility has developed six configurations for EXAFS measurements between 7 and 18 keV for different absorption edges (Fe K, Co K, Cu K, Ta L3, Pb L3, and Zr K) using a curved-crystal spectrometer and a bright, continuum foil x-ray source. In this work, we describe the platform geometry, x-ray source performance, spectrometer resolution and throughput, design considerations, and data in ambient and dynamic-compression conditions.
Compact vertical emitting ring interband cascade lasers for isotope-resolved CO2 sensing
Authors: Marschick Georg , Isceri Stefania , Szedlak Rolf , Moser Harald , Waclawek Johannes P. , Arigliani Elena , Weih Robert , Schrenk Werner , Strasser Gottfried , Hinkov Borislav , Andrews Aaron Maxwell , Lendl Bernhard , Schwarz Benedikt
Published: October 2024

We present a compact vertically emitting ring interband cascade laser (ICL) with low power consumption and the possibility for seamless integration into various CO2 sensing applications. Our devices exhibit desirable performance characteristics in battery-driven handheld devices, including room temperature (20 °C) threshold currents as low as 15 mA, small footprints, and stable single-mode emission, suitable for rapid isotope-resolved CO2 detection. Through epi-down bonding with sub-micron accuracy, we achieved robust integration of substrate-emitting ring ICLs, ensuring reliability and scalability that would be required for mass production. We present comprehensive experimental results validating the efficacy of our approach, including spectral analysis and CO2 sensing capabilities with limits of detection of 24 and 13 ppmv utilizing the 12CO2 P(60) and 13CO2 R(10) transitions in the ν3 fundamental band, respectively. The demonstrated devices hold great promise for a wide range of industrial applications, including environmental monitoring, process control, and atmospheric research, where compact low-power sensors are essential.