bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
“Family Connections”, a program for relatives of people with borderline personality disorder: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Guillén Verónica , Fernández‐Felipe Isabel , Marco José Helio , Grau Antoni , Botella Cristina , García‐Palacios Azucena
Published: December 2024

Family members of people with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) often experience high levels of psychological symptoms such as depression, anxiety, or burden. Family Connections (FC) is a pioneer program designed for relatives of people with BPD, and it is the most empirically supported treatment thus far. The aim of this study was to carry out a randomized clinical trial to confirm the differential efficacy of FC versus an active treatment as usual (TAU) in relatives of people with BPD in a Spanish population sample. The sample consisted of 121 family members (82 family units) and a total of 82 patients who participated in a two‐arm randomized controlled trial (RCT). The primary outcome was burden of illness. Secondary outcomes were depression, anxiety, stress, family empowerment, and quality of life. This is the first study to evaluate relatives and patients in an RCT design comparing two active treatment conditions of similar durations. Although no statistically significant differences were found between conditions. However, the adjusted posttest means for FC were systematically better than for TAU, and the effect sizes were larger in burden, stress, depression, family functioning, and quality of life in the FC intervention. Patients of caregivers who received the FC condition showed statistically significant improvements in stress, depression, and anxiety. Results indicated that FC helped both patients and relatives pointing to the importance of involving families of patients with severe psychological disorders.
Fatigue Characteristics and Mechanisms of Additional Damping Structures With Entangled Metallic Wire Material
Authors: Tang Yu , Liang Jiasong , Wei Dang , Xiong Baoquan , Zhu Zhihui , Wu Yiwan , Bai Hongbai
Published: December 2024

Under vibration conditions, continuous alternating loads cause fatigue damage to structures, affecting their stability, durability, and overall safety. In this paper, the additional damping structures with entangled metallic wire material (EMWM) is proposed. Dynamic tests with different loading frequencies and loading amplitudes are carried out to evaluate the energy dissipation and stiffness characteristics of the different structures in terms of energy dissipation, loss factor, and average stiffness. Fatigue tests are conducted, and the fatigue life tests are applied with different loading amplitudes and loading frequencies using displacement control, and the fatigue properties are obtained under different numbers of cyclic loading. The test results are analyzed with respect to the energy dissipation mechanism of EMWM and the characteristics of the additional damping structure. The hysteresis curves under different loading times are identified by parameters, and the fatigue mechanical models are constructed. Comparison between the predicted data of the model and the hysteresis curve data of the test indicates that the model has high accuracy.
Effects of Alternate Wetting and Drying Irrigation on Methane and Nitrous Oxide Emissions From Rice Fields: A Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Zhao Chenxi , Qiu Rangjian , Zhang Tao , Luo Yufeng , Agathokleous Evgenios
Published: December 2024

Reducing water input and promoting water productivity in rice field under alternate wetting and drying irrigation (AWD), instead of continuous flooding (CF), are vital due to increasing irrigation water scarcity. However, it is also important to understand how methane (CH4) and nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions and global warming potential ( of CH4 and N2O) respond to AWD under the influence of various factors. Here, we conducted a meta‐analysis to investigate the impact of AWD on CH4 and N2O emissions and , and its modification by climate conditions, soil properties, and management practices. Overall, compared to CF, AWD significantly reduced CH4 emissions by 51.6% and by 46.9%, while increased N2O emissions by 44.0%. The effect of AWD on CH4 emissions was significantly modified by soil drying level, the number of drying events, mean annual precipitation (MAP), soil organic carbon content (SOC), growth cycle, and nitrogen fertilizer (N) application. Regarding N2O emissions, mean annual temperature (MAT), elevation, soil texture, and soil pH had significant impacts on the AWD effect. Consequently, the under AWD was altered by soil drying level, soil pH, and growth cycle. Additionally, we found that MAP or MAT can be used to accurately assess the changes of global or national CH4 and N2O emissions under mild AWD. Moreover, increasing SOC, but not N application, is a potential strategy to further reduce CH4 emissions under (mild) AWD, since no difference was found between application of 60–120 and > 120 kg N ha−1. Furthermore, the soil pH can serve as an indicator to assess the reduction of under (mild) AWD as indicated by a significant linear correlation between them. These findings can provide valuable data support for accurate evaluation of non‐CO2 greenhouse gas emissions reduction in rice fields under large‐scale promotion of AWD in the future.
How Much Warming Can Mosquito Vectors Tolerate?
Authors: Couper Lisa I. , Nalukwago Desire Uwera , Lyberger Kelsey P. , Farner Johannah E. , Mordecai Erin A.
Published: December 2024

Climate warming is expected to substantially impact the global landscape of mosquito‐borne disease, but these impacts will vary across disease systems and regions. Understanding which diseases, and where within their distributions, these impacts are most likely to occur is critical for preparing public health interventions. While research has centered on potential warming‐driven expansions in vector transmission, less is known about the potential for vectors to experience warming‐driven stress or even local extirpations. In conservation biology, species risk from climate warming is often quantified through vulnerability indices such as thermal safety margins—the difference between an organism's upper thermal limit and its habitat temperature. Here, we estimated thermal safety margins for 8 mosquito species that are the vectors of malaria, dengue, chikungunya, Zika, West Nile and other major arboviruses, across their known ranges to investigate which mosquitoes and regions are most and least vulnerable to climate warming. We find that several of the most medically important mosquito vector species, including Ae. aegypti and An. gambiae, have positive thermal safety margins across the majority of their ranges when realistic assumptions of mosquito behavioral thermoregulation are incorporated. On average, the lowest climate vulnerability, in terms of both the magnitude and duration of thermal safety, was just south of the equator and at northern temperate range edges, and the highest climate vulnerability was in the subtropics. Mosquitoes living in regions including the Middle East, the western Sahara, and southeastern Australia, which are largely comprised of desert and xeric shrubland biomes, have the highest climate vulnerability across vector species.
Négociation collective multiemployeurs: pourquoi survit‐elle et renaît‐elle dans certaines économies de marché libérales?
Authors: WRIGHT Chris F.
Published: December 2024

L'auteur étudie ici les prérequis à la réussite d'un système de négociation collective multiemployeurs dans les pays où le soutien institutionnel est défaillant. Il analyse les cas du Royaume‐Uni, de la Nouvelle‐Zélande et de l'Australie, trois économies de marché libérales qui ont conservé la négociation multiemployeurs dans certains secteurs, ou ont récemment tenté de la ressusciter. Les institutions «réglementaires» (législation) et «cognitives» (normes sociales) s'avèrent importantes pour que les acteurs des relations de travail accèdent au pouvoir et aux ressources leur permettant de soutenir la négociation multiemployeurs et que travailleurs et employeurs considèrent légitime cette forme de fixation des salaires.
Impact of monetary policy on corporate R&D investment: From the perspective of loan term structure
Authors: Yang Yanling , Song Yuegang
Published: December 2024

Monetary policy can directly impact corporate R&D investment, and it can also be achieved through loan term structure indirectly. This study examines the relationship between macro‐level monetary policy and micro‐level corporate R&D investment from the perspective of loan term structure using data from A‐share listed companies in China from 2007 to 2018. The study has three major findings: (i) There is a positive correlation between monetary policy easing and corporate R&D investment. (ii) From the perspective of the loan term structure, when monetary policy tightens, changes in the loan term structure may discourage corporate R&D activities, which is more pronounced for non‐state‐owned, high‐tech and growth‐stage companies. The effect of unconventional monetary policy is greater than that of conventional monetary policy in the period of severe economic shock, and monetary policy has a clear asymmetric effect that is greater when it is tight than when it is accommodative. (iii) Through survival analysis, it is found that tight monetary policy is not conducive to prolonging the duration of enterprises' R&D investment. Based on these findings, the study presents recommendations that provide a reference for the government to implement macro‐control.
Arrhythmogenic Cardiomyopathy: Towards Genotype Based Diagnoses and Management
Authors: Muller Steven A. , Bertoli Giorgia , Wang Jianan , Gasperetti Alessio , Cox Moniek G. P. J. , Calkins Hugh , Riele Anneline S. J. M. te , Judge Daniel P. , Delmar Mario , Hauer Richard N. W. , Boink Gerard J. J. , Cerrone Marina , Tintelen J. Peter van , James Cynthia A.
Published: December 2024

Arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy (ACM) is a genetically heterogeneous inherited cardiomyopathy with an estimated prevalence of 1:5000–10 000 that predisposes patients to life‐threatening ventricular arrhythmias (VA) and sudden cardiac death (SCD). ACM diagnostic criteria and risk prediction models, particularly for arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC), the most common form of ACM, are typically genotype‐agnostic, but numerous studies have established clinically meaningful genotype‐phenotype associations. Early signs of ACM onset differ by genotype indicating the need for genotype‐specific diagnostic criteria and family screening paradigms. Likewise, risk factors for SCD vary by genetic subtype, indicating that genotype‐specific guidelines for management are also warranted. Of particular importance, genotype‐specific therapeutic approaches are being developed. Results from a randomized controlled trial for flecainide use in ARVC patients are currently pending. Research in a plakophilin‐2‐deficient mouse model suggests this antiarrhythmic drug may be particularly useful for patients with likely pathogenic or pathogenic (LP/P) PKP2 variants. Additionally, the first gene therapy clinical trials in ARVC patients harboring LP/P PKP2 variants are currently underway. This review aims to provide clinicians caring for ACM patients with an up‐to‐date overview of the current literature in genotype‐specific natural history of disease and management of ACM patients and describe scientific advances that have led to upcoming clinical trials.
Lipoteichoic Acid Rescued Age‐Related Bone Loss by Enhancing Neuroendocrine and Growth Hormone Secretion Through TLR2/COX2/PGE2 Signalling Pathway
Authors: Liu Zixian , Lin Zexin , Chen Yingqi , Lu Mincheng , Hong Weisheng , Yu Bin , Liu Guanqiao
Published: December 2024

The phenomenon of brain–bone crosstalk pertains to the intricate interaction and communication pathways between the central nervous system and the skeletal system. Disruption in brain–bone crosstalk, particularly in disorders such as osteoporosis, can result in skeletal irregularities. Consequently, investigating and comprehending this communication network holds paramount importance in the realm of bone disease prevention and management. In this study, we found that Staphylococcus aureus lipoteichoic acid promoted the conversion of arachidonic acid to PGE2 by interacting with TLR2 receptors acting on the surface of microglial cells in the pituitary gland, leading to the upregulation of COX‐2 expression. Subsequently, PGE2 bound to the EP4 receptor of growth hormone‐secreting cells and activated the intracellular CREB signalling pathway, promoting GH secretion and ameliorating age‐related bone loss.
Neural correlates of children with avoidant restrictive food intake disorder symptoms: large‐scale neuroanatomical analysis of a paediatric population
Authors: Sader Michelle , Harris Holly A. , Waiter Gordon D. , Jansen Pauline W. , Williams Justin H.G. , White Tonya
Published: December 2024

Background

Avoidant restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID) is a recently recognised feeding and eating disorder and is characterised by a lack of interest and motivation to eat. Despite burgeoning research, few studies to date have explored the underlying neurobiology of ARFID. Research examining the neural underpinnings of ARFID can greatly assist in understanding different mechanisms that play disorder‐specific roles.

Methods

We studied a total of 1,977 10‐year‐old participants from the Generation R Study, a population‐based Dutch cohort, to cross‐sectionally examine neuroanatomical differences between those with versus without ARFID‐like symptoms. Children were classified with versus without ARFID symptoms using the ARFID Index, a validated evaluative tool comprised of parent‐reported and researcher‐assessed measurements of picky eating, energy intake, diet quality, growth and psychosocial impact to characterise ARFID symptoms in the paediatric population. Global and regional values of surface area, cortical thickness, and volume from T1‐weighted structural magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans in those with ARFID symptoms were compared with children not exhibiting symptoms.

Results

We identified 121 (6.1%) individuals with ARFID symptoms relative to 1,865 (93.9%) individuals without ARFID symptoms. Neuroanatomical findings identified significantly greater frontal (p = .00743; d = 0.21) and superior frontal (p = 6.56E‐04; d = 0.28) cortical thickness among children with ARFID symptoms.

Conclusions

This first large‐scale study of the neural correlates of ARFID identified greater thickness of frontal cortical regions in children with ARFID symptoms, suggesting a role for executive function in the aetiology of the condition.
Epidemiology of Rome IV Fecal Incontinence in Japan: An Internet Survey of 9995 Individuals
Authors: Hisaki Yuki , Sawada Akinari , Kobayashi Yumie , Nishida Yu , Maruyama Hirotsugu , Ominami Masaki , Nadatani Yuji , Otani Koji , Fukunaga Shusei , Hosomi Shuhei , Tanaka Fumio , Fujiwara Yasuhiro
Published: December 2024

Background

Fecal incontinence (FI) is a debilitating condition defined as recurrent uncontrolled passage of fecal material according to Rome IV. Although FI greatly impacts patients' health‐related quality of life (HRQOL), there have been few studies about the prevalence of FI in the Japanese general population. The aim of this study was to investigate the epidemiology of FI using Rome IV criteria in Japan.

Methods

This was a cross‐sectional internet survey for Japanese individuals aged 18 to 79 years using a questionnaire about demographics, comorbidities, lifestyle, abdominal symptoms, bowel habits, HRQOL, and disorders of gut–brain interaction according to Rome IV diagnostic criteria. Multivariate linear regression analysis identified factors associated with FI fulfilling Rome IV criteria (Rome IV FI).

Results

Overall, 9995 subjects were analyzed. Of which, 9.5% of the participants had at least one episode of FI in the last 3 months, and the prevalence of Rome IV FI was 1.2%. HRQOL was significantly impaired in patients with Rome IV FI compared to continent individuals. Major functional bowel disorders overlapped with 39.5% of Rome IV FI where functional diarrhea (25.8%) was the most predominant. The overlap further impaired HRQOL in Rome IV FI patients. Alcohol consumption (odds ratio 1.82, 95% CI 1.24–2.66, p = 0.002) was independently related to Rome IV FI apart from gastroesophageal reflux disease, irritable bowel syndrome, functional abdominal bloating/distension, and functional diarrhea.

Conclusions

The prevalence of Rome IV FI was 1.2% in Japan. Further study is warranted to investigate the effect of lifestyle modification on the management of FI.
Prevalence and Incidence of Peutz–Jeghers Syndrome and Juvenile Polyposis Syndrome in Japan: A Nationwide Epidemiological Survey in 2022
Authors: Matsubara Yuri , Nakamura Yosikazu , Nakayama Yoshiko , Yano Tomonori , Ishikawa Hideki , Kumagai Hideki , Umeno Junji , Uchida Keiichi , Jimbo Keisuke , Yamamoto Toshiki , Ishida Hideyuki , Suzuki Okihide , Okamoto Koichi , Kakuta Fumihiko , Koike Yuhki , Kawasaki Yuko , Sakamoto Hirotsugu
Published: December 2024

Background and Aim

Peutz–Jeghers syndrome (PJS) and juvenile polyposis syndrome (JPS) are autosomal dominant diseases associated with high cancer risk. In Japan, knowledge about the prevalence and incidence of PJS and JPS is lacking despite being crucial for providing appropriate medical support. We aimed to determine the prevalence and incidence of these diseases.

Methods

In 2022, a nationwide questionnaire survey was conducted to determine the number of patients with PJS or JPS by sex and the number of newly confirmed cases from 2019 to 2021. The target facilities included gastroenterology, pediatrics, and pediatric surgery departments, which were stratified into seven classes on the basis of the total number of beds. We randomly selected target facilities using different extraction rates in each class, resulting in 1748/2912 facilities (extraction rate: 60%) as the final sample. We calculated the estimated number of patients using the response and extraction rates.

Results

A total of 1077 facilities responded to the survey. The estimated numbers of patients with PJS and JPS were 701 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 581–820) and 188 (95% CI: 147–230), respectively. The 3‐year period prevalences of PJS and JPS were 0.6/100000 and 0.15/100000, whereas the incidences in 2021 were 0.07/100000 and 0.02/100000, respectively. Male patients constituted 53.5% and 59.6% in the PJS and JPS groups, respectively.

Conclusions

We determined the prevalence and incidence of PJS and JPS in Japan for the first time. Further research is needed to obtain more detailed information, including the clinical differences and outcomes in Japan.
Variation in whale (Cetacea) inner ear anatomy reveals the early evolution of “specialized” high‐frequency hearing sensitivity
Authors: Racicot Rachel A. , Mourlam Mickaël J. , Ekdale Eric G. , Glass Abigail , Marino Lori , Uhen Mark D.
Published: December 2024

As fully aquatic mammals, hearing is arguably the most important sensory component of cetaceans. Increasingly, researchers have been harnessing computed tomography (CT) to investigate the details of the inner ear as they can provide clues to the hearing abilities of whales. We use microCT scans of a broad sampling of the ear bones (periotics) of primarily toothed whales (Odontoceti) to investigate the inner ear bony labyrinth shape and reconstruct hearing sensitivities among these cetaceans, including several taxa about which little is currently known. We find support for sensitivity to the lower frequency spectrum in the archaeocete Zygorhiza kochii and an early toothed mysticete cf. Aetiocetus. Oligocene odontocetes (including one from our novel dataset), stem delphinidans, and two additional species of the long‐snouted eurhinodelphinids are found to have been able to hear within the narrow‐band high‐frequency spectrum (NBHF), which is thought to be a specialized form of hearing that evolved convergently multiple different times in extant groups to avoid predation by macroraptorial predators. Our results thus indicate that NBHF evolved as early as the Oligocene and certainly in stem delphinidans by the early Miocene, and thus may be an ancestral characteristic rather than a more recent innovation in select groups.
Linear Growth During Treatment With a Simplified, Combined Protocol: Secondary Analyses of Severely Wasted Children 6–59 Months in the ComPAS Cluster Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Heymsfield Grace , Stephenson Kevin , Tausanovitch Zachary , Briend André , Kerac Marko , Stobaugh Heather , Bailey Jeanette , Kangas Suvi T.
Published: December 2024

A simplified, combined protocol treats children with moderate acute malnutrition (MAM), defined by mid‐upper arm circumference (MUAC) of < 125 and ≥ 115 mm and no oedema, with 1 daily sachet of ready‐to‐use therapeutic food (RUTF) and those with severe acute malnutrition (SAM), defined by MUAC < 115 mm and/or oedema, with two daily sachets of RUTF. This protocol was previously shown to result in non‐inferior recovery compared to standard treatment that used higher, weight‐based RUTF dosing among children with SAM and ready‐to‐use supplementary food (RUSF) for MAM in a cluster‐based randomised controlled trial in Kenya and South Sudan. We conducted a secondary analysis of this trial to compare linear growth among children admitted with MUAC < 115 mm. Linear and ponderal growth were calculated from admission to discharge and visualised using aggregate growth curves. HAZ change adjusted for admission characteristics was negative across the course of treatment but similar across arms [−0.21 ± 0.18 SE in the standard arm, −0.24 ± 0.18 SE in simplified; difference (95% confidence interval) 0.03 (−0.12, 0.18)]. The unadjusted mean ± SE linear growth velocity from admission to discharge was 1.8 ± 0.7 mm/week in the standard arm compared to 1.7 ± 0.7 mm/week in the simplified arm [difference = 0.09 (−0.36, 0.53)] and similar in adjusted analysis. MUAC and weight gain velocities were not significantly different by treatment arm. Reducing the RUTF dose prescribed to children during SAM treatment does not appear to affect linear growth or other growth velocities during treatment.
Synergistic role of Rubisco inhibitor release and degradation in photosynthesis
Authors: Pasch Viviana , Leister Dario , Rühle Thilo
Published: December 2024

Ribulose‐1,5‐bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase (Rubisco) exhibits catalytic promiscuity, resulting in error‐prone reactions and the formation of inhibitory sugar phosphates. Specifically, Xylulose‐1,5‐bisphosphate (XuBP) acts as an inhibitor by binding to the active site of Rubisco, thereby impairing its catalytic function. Thermolabile Rubisco activase (Rca) facilitates the release of such inhibitors, including XuBP, by remodelling Rubisco. In Arabidopsis thaliana, the phosphatase pair CbbYA and CbbYB subsequently hydrolyses XuBP to prevent its rebinding to Rubisco.

To explore the functional interplay between these components in maintaining photosynthesis, cbbya, cbbyb and cbbyab mutants were crossed with RCA knockdown (rca‐2) lines. Additionally, both RCA and CBBYA were overexpressed in wild‐type (WT) Arabidopsis thaliana.

Phenotypic analyses revealed an exacerbation in decreased growth and photosynthetic efficiency in the cbbyab rca‐2 double mutants compared with the control mutants (cbbyab and rca‐2), indicating a negative genetic interaction. Furthermore, the co‐overexpression of RCA and CBBYA did not improve photosynthesis under short‐term heat stress, and light reactions were adversely affected relative to the WT.

These findings illustrate the synergistic roles of Rca, CbbYA and CbbYB in maintaining carbon fixation and promoting plant growth in Arabidopsis thaliana. Thus, the coordinated regulation of Rca and CbbY enzymes is crucial for optimizing photosynthetic efficiency.
The transcription factor CCT30 promotes rice preharvest sprouting by regulating sugar signalling to inhibit the ABA‐mediated pathway
Authors: Fan Xiaowei , Gao Fangyuan , Liu Yuexin , Huang Wen , Yang Ying , Luo Zhengliang , Zhang Jia , Qi Feixiang , Lv Jianqun , Su Xiangwen , Wang Lei , Song Song , Ren Guangjun , Xing Yongzhong
Published: December 2024

Seed dormancy is an important adaptive trait in plants. Proper seed dormancy enables the avoidance of preharvest sprouting in the undesirable conditions like rainfall frequently. In this study, qPSR8, a major QTL for preharvest sprouting, was isolated, and a previously reported heading‐date gene, CCT30, was verified as the candidate gene. The CCT30 knockout mutants (CCT30‐CR) enhanced seed dormancy and ABA sensitivity as compared with the wild‐type ZH11. Conversely, CCT30 overexpressing plants had opposite phenotype changes and had a decreased ABA content. The expression of ABA synthesis genes such as OsNCEDs and ABA signalling genes such as ABI3 and ABI5 were upregulated and sugar metabolism‐related genes such as amylase genes were downregulated in CCT30‐CR. Correspondingly, fewer free sugars, such as monosaccharides and oligosaccharides, accumulated in CCT30‐CR. The freshly harvested seeds from CCT30‐CR had no ability to transmit sugar signals when treated with 1% exogenous glucose. In addition, CCT30 interacted with the transcription factor OsbZIP37, which negatively regulates seed dormancy. Overall, CCT30 promotes preharvest sprouting by enhancing sugar signals that inhibit the ABA‐mediated pathway, and CCT30 is a good gene for breeding rice varieties resistant to preharvest sprouting.
Recognition of the Novel DPA1*02:01:01:39 Allele Through Third‐Generation HLA‐Targeted Sequencing Technology
Authors: Gao Hua , Zhao Yuanli , Zhang Pengchuang , Gao Peng , Li Zihang
Published: December 2024

HLA‐DPA1*02:01:01:39 differs from HLA‐DPA1*02:01:01:02 by a single nucleotide change in intron 1.
On some mod p representations of quaternion algebra over ℚp
Authors: Hu Yongquan , Wang Haoran
Published: December 2024

Let $F$ be a totally real field in which $p$ is unramified and let $B$ be a quaternion algebra over $F$ which splits at at most one infinite place. Let $\overline {r}:\operatorname {{\mathrm {Gal}}}(\overline {F}/F)\rightarrow \mathrm {GL}_2(\overline {\mathbb {F}}_p)$ be a modular Galois representation which satisfies the Taylor–Wiles hypotheses. Assume that for some fixed place $v|p$, $B$ ramifies at $v$ and $F_v$ is isomorphic to $\mathbb {Q}_p$ and $\overline {r}$ is generic at $v$. We prove that the admissible smooth representations of the quaternion algebra over $\mathbb {Q}_p$ coming from mod $p$ cohomology of Shimura varieties associated to $B$ have Gelfand–Kirillov dimension $1$. As an application we prove that the degree-two Scholze's functor (which is defined by Scholze [On the$p$-adic cohomology of the Lubin–Tate tower, Ann. Sci. Éc. Norm. Supér. (4) 51 (2018), 811–863]) vanishes on generic supersingular representations of $\mathrm {GL}_2(\mathbb {Q}_p)$. We also prove some finer structure theorems about the image of Scholze's functor in the reducible case.
Modeling the effects of electron irradiation on graphene drums using the local activation model
Authors: Ojo Ibikunle , Jayamaha Hitihamilage Thineth Bandara , Hardin Jacob , Pudasaini Anil , Gonzalez Roberto , Yan Jiang , Cui Jingbiao , Perez Jose
Published: December 2024

We study the effects of electron irradiation on suspended graphene monolayers and graphene supported on SiO2 substrates in the range 5.0 × 1015–4.3 × 1017 electrons/cm2. The suspended graphene monolayers are exfoliated over SiO2 substrates containing micrometer-sized holes, with graphene completely covering the hole, and are referred to as graphene drums. The irradiation was performed using a scanning electron microscope at 20–25 keV electron energy. We observe a two-stage behavior for the ID/IG, ID′/IG, and ID/ID′ ratios as a function of the average distance between defects, LD, where ID, IG, and ID′ are the intensities of the Raman D, G, and D′ peaks, respectively. Good fits to the dependence of the ratios on LD are obtained using the local activation model equation. The fits are used to characterize the defects at high defect densities. We also carried out annealing studies of samples irradiated to the first stage and used an Arrhenius plot to measure activation energies for defect healing, Ea. We measured Ea = 0.90 eV for the graphene drums, consistent with the hydroxyl groups; for supported graphene, we measured Ea = 0.36 eV, consistent with hydrogen adsorbates. We also studied the surface of the drums using atomic force microscopy and found no observable holes after irradiation and annealing. Our results show that the local activation model is useful in characterizing the defects in graphene drums.
Antimicrobial peptide Hs02 with rapid bactericidal, anti-biofilm, and anti-inflammatory activity against carbapenem-resistant
Klebsiella pneumoniae
and
Escherichia coli
Authors: Zhao Deyi , Tang Miran , Hu Panjie , Hu Xiaowei , Chen Weijun , Ma Zhexiao , Chen Huanchang , Liu Haifeng , Cao Jianming , Zhou Tieli
Published: December 2024

Carbapenem-resistant
Klebsiella pneumoniae
(CRKP) and
Escherichia coli
(CREC) are frequently detected in clinical settings, restricting the use of carbapenems. Therefore, there is an urgent need for new antimicrobial strategies to address infections caused by CRKP and CREC. This study investigated the antibacterial, anti-biofilm, and anti-inflammatory effects of the cationic antimicrobial peptide Hs02, along with its potential antimicrobial mechanisms against CRKP and CREC. The results revealed that Hs02 had a low minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) against CRKP and CREC, effectively eliminating the bacteria within 30 min. Moreover, Hs02 significantly prevents biofilm formation and disrupts the established biofilms. Further mechanistic studies demonstrated that Hs02 specifically targeted and bound to bacterial outer membrane lipopolysaccharides (LPS), disrupted membrane permeability and integrity, which led to intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation. Furthermore, Hs02 neutralized LPS, thereby suppressing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β in murine macrophage RAW 264.7 cells.
In vitro
, hemolysis and cytotoxicity assays confirmed Hs02’s safety at the tested concentrations and proved that Hs02 improved the survival rate of
Galleria mellonella
larvae. In conclusion, the findings suggest that Hs02’s interaction with LPS and the resulting disruption of membrane integrity may be key factors driving its rapid bactericidal and anti-inflammatory effects.

IMPORTANCE

Eukaryotic antimicrobial peptides are typically amphipathic peptides consisting of approximately 50 amino acids. Many macromolecular proteins in our body contain polypeptide sequences that show characteristics similar to those of antimicrobial peptides. The present research highlights a gap in the current literature regarding the mechanisms by which the intragenic antimicrobial peptide Hs02, derived from human proteins, exerts its rapid bactericidal and anti-inflammatory effects. The findings demonstrate that lipopolysaccharide (LPS) is a key target of Hs02’s antimicrobial activity and that its ability to neutralize LPS is crucial for its anti-inflammatory effects.
Poor housing conditions in adolescence and adult health outcomes: an outcome-wide longitudinal approach
Authors: Kim Jinho , Park Gum-Ryeong , Jang Hayun , Son Hyewon
Published: December 2024

Background

While prior literature has documented the impact of housing quality on health, the long-lasting effects of poor housing conditions in adolescence on adult health remain understudied. This study employs an outcome-wide longitudinal approach to estimate the association between poor housing conditions in adolescence and a set of health outcomes in adulthood.

Methods

Data from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health (Add Health), a large-scale, nationally representative sample of US adolescents, were used. This study analysed 15 health outcomes encompassing physical and mental/cognitive health, and health behaviours. The Bonferroni correction was applied to adjust the significance level of multiple testing of the associations.

Results

After applying the Bonferroni correction, poor housing conditions in adolescence were associated with seven adult health outcomes. These conditions were particularly strongly and robustly linked to mental health issues, including depression, suicidal ideation and perceived stress. Additionally, poor housing conditions were related to physical health outcomes such as cardiovascular disease risk and self-rated health, as well as health behaviours such as smoking and unhealthy eating behaviour.

Conclusion

Poor housing conditions during adolescence can act as an early risk factor for adult health, particularly mental health. These findings support the adoption of a life course approach and strengthen the case for housing interventions aimed at improving health outcomes.
Quantum phase transition in even–even molybdenum isotopes using von Neumann entropy
Authors: Amiri N. , Sayedi M. , Ghapanvari M. , Jafarizadeh M.A.
Published: December 2024

In this study, the von Neumann entropy (entanglement entropy) of s– d bosons and proton (π)–neutron (ν) bosons in the even–even molybdenum (94–102Mo) isotopes, within the framework of the Interacting Boson Model-2, has been calculated and analyzed. In order to compare the results, the energy spectra, quadrupole moment, and the expectation value of the s-boson number operator of Mo isotopes have been obtained. The results showed that 94Mo has the minimum entanglement of s and d bosons and 102Mo nucleus has the maximum entanglement of s and d bosons. Therefore, these nuclei are spherical (U(5)) and γ-unstable (SO(6)) nuclei, respectively, and other observables confirm this result. Also, the value of the entanglement entropy of the π and ν bosons is constant by changing the control parameter. So, it does not show any transition.
Explore the properties of $$\Lambda (1670)$$ in the Cabibbo-favored process $$\Lambda ^+_c \rightarrow p K^- \pi ^+$$
Authors: Zhang Sheng-Chao , Duan Man-Yu , Lyu Wen-Tao , Wang Guan-Ying , Zhu Jing-Yu , Wang En
Published: December 2024

Recently, the Belle and LHCb Collaborations have measured the

$$\Lambda ^+_c \rightarrow p K^- \pi ^+$$

Λ
c
+

→
p

K
-

π
+

decay and reported the

$$K^- p$$

K
-

p

invariant mass distribution, which shows a clear cusp structure around the

$$\eta \Lambda $$

η
Λ

threshold. In this work, we have analyzed this process by considering the triangle mechanism and the S-wave pseudoscalar meson-octet baryon interactions within the chiral unitary approach, which dynamically generates the

$$\Lambda (1670)$$

Λ
(
1670
)

. Our results are in good agreement with the Belle measurements, which implies that the cusp structure around

$$\eta \Lambda $$

η
Λ

threshold could be associated with the

$$\Lambda (1670)$$

Λ
(
1670
)

with the molecular nature.
Muon $$g-2$$ anomaly from vector-like leptons in a 2-Higgs-doublet + scalar singlet model
Authors: Brune Tim , Kephart Thomas W. , Päs Heinrich
Published: December 2024

We revisit an economical model for the

$$g-2$$

g
-
2

anomaly featuring a vector-like charged fermion, a scalar doublet and a scalar singlet in the light of new results from Fermilab. The phenomenological implications for lepton-flavor universality, Higgs decays, and charged lepton-flavor violating decays are discussed in detail.
Complexity and isotropization based extended models in the context of electromagnetic field: an implication of minimal gravitational decoupling
Authors: Naseer Tayyab
Published: December 2024

This paper formulates three different analytical solutions to the gravitational field equations in the framework of Rastall theory by taking into account the gravitational decoupling approach. For this, the anisotropic spherical interior fluid distribution is assumed as a seed source characterized by the corresponding Lagrangian. The field equations are then modified by introducing an additional source which is gravitationally coupled with the former fluid setup. Since this approach makes the Rastall equations more complex, the MGD scheme is used to tackle this, dividing these equations into two systems. Some particular ansatz are taken into account to solve the first system, describing initial anisotropic fluid. These metric potentials contain multiple constants which are determined with the help of boundary conditions. On the other hand, the solution for the second set is calculated through different well-known constraints. Afterwards, the estimated data of a pulsar 4U 1820-30 is considered so that the feasibility of the developed models can be checked graphically. It is concluded that all resulting models show physically acceptable behavior under certain choices of Rastall and decoupling parameters.
Emerging trends in time-fractional models for heat and wave phenomena
Authors: Younas H. M. , Shafiq Romasa , Nadeem Waqas , Usman Muhammad , Sidque Imran
Published: December 2024

The homotopy perturbation method is extensively employed to efficiently determine optimal outcomes for equations demonstrating characteristics of both heat and wave phenomena particularly those with fractional orders. The method’s effectiveness is evaluated by analyzing time- fractional-order differential equations. It is noted that the homotopy perturbation method proves to be a dominant and convergent approach for solving both linear and nonlinear problems in this research. The approximate results demonstrate that this method is explicit, efficient and user-friendly making for tackling of wider range of fractional-order heat and wave equations.
True substrates from a Mississippian wetland: windows into the biogeomorphology of Visean tetrapod habitats (Tyne Limestone Formation, UK)
Authors: Craig James A. , Davies Neil S. , McMahon William J.
Published: December 2024

Records of Carboniferous biogeomorphology and tetrapod distribution are drawn predominantly from Pennsylvanian strata, with Mississippian counterparts more sparsely known. In this paper we describe trace fossils and vegetation-induced sedimentary structures from a Mississippian (Visean) fluvio-deltaic succession (Yoredale Group, UK). These structures are archived on true substrates and as sampled topography, providing a high-resolution glimpse into an early tetrapod habitat. A diverse ichnoassemblage comprises 18 invertebrate ichnospecies in addition to what are probably Britain's earliest tetrapod trackways. Vegetation-induced sedimentary structures include upturned laminae, scour-and-mound bedding and mudstone-filled hollows, which developed as plants mediated sedimentation and erosion. The distribution of both the trace fossil and the vegetation-induced sedimentary structure record is controlled by the abundance of true substrates. We contend that sedimentary landscapes that were primarily stabilized by vegetation promoted true substrate preservation, such that a complex interplay between biogeomorphology and palaeoenvironmental records exists in lower Carboniferous terrestrial successions. This case study demonstrates that an improved consideration of true substrate distribution within sedimentary successions can strengthen understanding of faunal habitats and biogeomorphic interaction.
On Program Synthesis and Large Language Models
Authors: Hüttel Hans
Published: December 2024

Why it is unlikely new developments in machine intelligence will eventually make programming obsolete.
LI-RADS US Surveillance Version 2024 for Surveillance of Hepatocellular Carcinoma: An Update to the American College of Radiology US LI-RADS
Authors: Kamaya Aya , Fetzer David T. , Seow James H. , Burrowes David P. , Choi Hailey H. , Dawkins Adrian A. , Fung Christopher , Gabriel Helena , Hong Cheng William , Khurana Aman , McGillen Kathryn L. , Morgan Tara A. , Sirlin Claude B. , Tse Justin R. , Rodgers Shuchi K.
Published: December 2024

The Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System US Surveillance version 2024 update reflects new data accrued since 2017 and is aligned with the 2023 American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases practice guidance on hepatocellular carcinoma.
Effect of the Physicochemical Properties of PVdF on Dry-Sprayed Graphite Electrodes for Lithium-Ion Batteries for Electric Vehicle Applications
Authors: Barreras-Uruchurtu J. Alberto , Besnard Nicolas , Paul Clément , Marchal Lauréline , Devisme Samuel , Lestriez Bernard
Published: December 2024

We investigated the fabrication of graphite/PVdF anodes using electrostatic dry spray-coating, employing two different PVdF binders with different physicochemical properties such as primary particle size, crystallinity, melting temperature, and viscosity. We examine and compare the morphological, mechanical, electrical, and electrochemical properties of the dry-sprayed electrodes (DSEs). Significant differences were observed, particularly in terms of adhesion/cohesion, electrical resistivity, tortuosity, and electrochemical performance, with the PVdF binder characterized by a smaller particle size (178 nm) and a slightly higher melting temperature range (165 °C–172 °C), demonstrating superior long-term cycling stability. Specifically, the best electrode made with this binder achieved 188.3 mAh g−1 with over 94.9% capacity retention after 200 cycles. In contrast, the best electrode made with the PVdF binder with a larger particle size (270 nm) and a lower melting temperature range (155 °C–172 °C), showed a performance of 173.9 mAh g−1 with 88.3% capacity retention under the same conditions. Our findings highlight the necessity of adjusting fabrication conditions according to the specific characteristics of each PVdF binder to optimize the overall performance of the DSEs.
Nano-Sized Graphene Cages Realize Highly Loaded “Solid-Solid” Process in Cathode Materials of Lithium Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Lyu Qingbo , Wei Yanlin , Yang Yuqi , Wu Hao , Zhou Ting , Huang Ziming , Liu Huanhuan , Bai Yunshan
Published: December 2024

The effects of polysulfide shuttle and volume expansion in lithium sulfur batteries limit their practical applications. In this work, a two-dimensional fabric with graphene cage interweaving was designed by the chemical vapor deposition method to resolve these issues. It has a large number of micropores, mesopores, and macropores. Sulfur was deposited in these pores by melting method to form sulfur/graphene complex. Polysulfides were confined within these pores, making them less likely to diffuse and shuttle. Graphene walls have strong flexibility and can alleviate the volume expansion effect during the charge and discharge process. Sulfur/graphene complex as active materials were directly coated on aluminum foil by graphene oxide to build lithium-sulfur battery, where graphene oxide served not only as an adhesive but also as a conductive agent to improve the electrochemical performances of batteries. The lithium-sulfur battery had an initial capacity of 1400 mAh g−1 and high-capacity retention (500 mAh g−1 after 200 cycles at 0.2 C rate). These results suggest that the reasonable design of material morphology for sulfur loading will effectively improve the performance of lithium sulfur batteries.
The role of cognitive load on interlimb differences in motor coordination in older adults
Authors: Jayasinghe S. A. L.
Published: December 2024

Although we know that motor control processes are lateralized to each hemisphere, the role of cognitive load on these specialized processes is undefined. We designed a unique task that incorporates a cognitive challenge to a typical reaching movement to examine how cognitive load affects limb asymmetries in motor control. In a group of typical older adults, we demonstrated interlimb asymmetries in reaction time but not in joint coordination or movement quality.
Study on Dynamic Responses of Unit Slab Track Considering the Influence of Cement Asphalt Mortar Rough Surface
Authors: Chen Xianmai , Pan Yanping , Deng Xiangyun , Chen Nan
Published: December 2024

Due to the particularity of the construction technology of the CRTS I slab track bagging method, there is a certain roughness between the track slab and the mortar layer in the actual project. In this work, the W–M fractal function was used to simulate the cement asphalt mortar layer in unit slab track with roughness rough surface morphology. To investigate the effects of interlayer rough contact surfaces, an interactive modeling approach using Python–Abaqus was developed, namely, the track structure performance, interlayer contact behavior, and vertical dynamic responses. The fastener pivot point reaction of the vehicle–track coupled model interacts with the track structure to examine the impact of different fractal dimensions and scale coefficients under the dynamic train load. The numerical results demonstrate that as the fractal dimension D and characteristic scale factor G increase, the dynamic response of the track slab gradually increases, and the contact area between layers decreases. The stress of rough contact surface is pointing distribution. Among the components of the track structure, the displacement of the track slab is most affected by the roughness. The rough surface affects the fatigue life of the mortar and consequently affects the service performance of the track structure. This study explores the effect of rough surfaces on the performance of CRTS I slab track structures under dynamic train load and provides a reference for improving the design of track structures and enhancing its life.
Data‐Driven Prediction of Li‐Ion Battery and PEM Fuel Cell Performance Degradations for Balanced Optimal Energy Management of Electrified Propulsion Systems
Authors: Pang Bo , Liu Siyang , Dong Zuomin
Published: December 2024

With the increasing pace of commercialization, the proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) system‐powered fuel cell electric vehicles/vessels (FCEVs) present a highly efficient, zero tailpipe emission propulsion solution. A battery energy storage system (BESS) is normally integrated with the PEMFC system to improve its performance, energy efficiency and operational life. However, both the PEMFC system and the BESS suffer from relatively short operation life and high replacement costs. Optimal energy management strategies (EMSs) become essential to improve their working conditions, thus extending their working life based on their distinct performance degradation behaviours and achieving the minimum lifecycle costs (LCCs). Extending from the present static modelling approach, this research introduces three new methods for dynamically updating the performance and degradation models of lithium‐ion (Li‐ion) batteries and PEMFCs using real‐time operation data of a fuel cell–battery hybrid electric propulsion system. The combined methods more accurately capture the performance and capability of each specific fuel cell hybrid propulsion system’s BESS and PEMFC system. This enables precise performance tracking, degradation assessment and optimal energy management. A new integrated approach to the hybrid electric propulsion system’s component sizing design optimization and optimal energy management is introduced using these new modelling schemes, minimizing the LCC by balancing the propulsion system performance, fuel economy and the BESS and PEMFC system degradations. These modelling and optimization methods are applied to a medium‐sized vehicle and passenger ferry to produce the optimal fuel cell–battery hybrid propulsion system design and EMS to strike the best balance between fuel efficiency and the PEMFC and BESS operation life.