bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Safety and Effectiveness of a Thermo‐Mechanical Fractional System at Low Settings for the Treatment of Photodamage
Authors: Bernstein Eric F. , Wang Maggie , Wang Jennifer , Lee Pannell J.
Published: February 2025

Objective

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of a thermo‐mechanical fractional device for the treatment of photodamaged skin.

Methods and Materials

Twenty‐five subjects received three thermo‐mechanical fractional device treatments at monthly intervals. Low treatment settings of a 5 ms pulse duration and 100 μm tip protrusion were administered in 1–2 passes. Digital images were evaluated for improvement on the Fitzpatrick Wrinkle Classification Score 3 months after the final treatment. Secondary efficacy endpoints included ratings on a Global Aesthetic Improvement Score and Subject SatIsfaction Questionnaire.

Results

Forty‐eight percent of subjects demonstrated a ≥ 1 score improvement in the Fitzpatrick Wrinkle Classification Score, and 96% of subjects demonstrated a good to excellent Global Aesthetic Improvement Score. Sixty‐eight percent of subjects were “satisfied” to “very satisfied” with treatment results.

Conclusions

The thermo‐mechanical fractional device at low settings is safe and effective for improving signs of photodamage with minimal patient discomfort.
In vitro Bone Tissue Engineering Strategies: The Relevance of Cells and Culturing Methods in Bone Formation and Remodeling
Authors: Bastos Ana Raquel , Maia Fátima Raquel , Oliveira Joaquim Miguel , Reis Rui Luís , Correlo Vítor Manuel
Published: February 2025

The most recent advances in bone tissue engineering (BTE) approaches step forward in the field of three‐dimensional (3D) tissue models, enabling the development of more realistic tools to study bone disorders, such as osteoporosis. BTE field aims to mimic native bone tissue more truthfully, providing an appropriate environment for tissue regeneration and repair through the combination of 3D porous scaffolds, specific growth factors, and cells. Currently, the scientific community is focused on developing and improving new biomaterials that in combination with growth factors and specific cell types, that can accurately emulate the native bone microenvironment. However, most of the reported studies in the BTE field are focused on bone formation, disregarding the entire bone remodeling steps, which also involve bone resorption. In this review, the currently available mono and co‐culturing methods, types of biomaterials used in several strategies that combine scaffolds and relevant cells (e.g., osteoblasts (OBs), osteoclasts (OCs), and osteocytes (OCys)), envisioning a healthy bone formation and remodeling process, the gold‐standard drug delivery systems, and bioengineered‐based systems to tackle bone diseases are described.
Flame Retardancy Enhancement of Styrene–Butadiene Rubber Using Sepiolite Ionogels
Authors: Qi Qin , Fang Kai , Cheng Kai , Liu Qingting , Fu Xudong , Zhang Rong , Hu Shengfei , Yang Jun
Published: February 2025

When using traditional flame retardants, rubber faces the trade‐off between improving the flame retardancy and maintaining mechanical properties. Herein, a novel flame retardant of sepiolite‐based ionogels (IL@ASep) with both flame retardancy and reinforcement functions is developed. This work explores the flame retardancy and mechanical properties of composites made from compound rubber filled with sepiolite (Sep) using different modification methods. The results indicate that the addition of IL@ASep helps to simultaneously improve the flame retardancy and mechanical properties of compound. The materials with IL@ASep have a limiting oxygen index of 30.7% and a modulus at 100% of 4.95 MPa, whereas the samples without fillers have a limiting oxygen index of 23.5% and a modulus at 100% of 3.77 MPa. compared to the original samples, the total heat release and peak heat release decreased by 55.3% and 39.2%, respectively. Furthermore, the method of adding ionic liquid (IL) is also expected to improve the flame retardancy and mechanical properties of other polymers.
“Top‐Down” Scission of Polymer into Target Chains with Tunable Molecular Weight via Ultramicrotome
Authors: Feng Yi , Zhou Yang , Song Leilei , Feng Xueyan
Published: February 2025

Molecular weight is a crucial characteristic of polymers which has a great influence on various polymer properties. Controlling molecular weight is a key aim in polymer research. Traditionally, chemical synthesis as a “bottom‐up” approach is the most common method to tune polymer molecular weight. Alternatively, breaking polymer chains by mechanical forces (e.g., ultrasound, ball‐mill grinding, and flow) is another pathway to adjust the molecular weight distribution. Herein, a new “top‐down” approach employing ultramicrotome to cut the polymer chains to manipulate the polymer molecular weight is reported. By controlling the slice thickness and polymer swelling conditions, and the initial high molecular weight polymer chains can be cropped into fragment chains with designed molecular weight in a well‐defined way. This work presents a new strategy to manipulate polymer molecular weight and will also provide a unique platform for further study of polymer mechanochemistry.
Achieving High‐Strength Polymer Adhesion Through Bond Exchange at the Interphase
Authors: Ohnishi Ryota , Hayashi Mikihiro
Published: February 2025

Bond‐exchangeable cross‐linked materials, including covalent adaptable networks and vitrimers, exhibit numerous advantageous properties such as reprocessability, recyclability, and healability. These features arise from the relaxation and diffusion of network polymers facilitated by bond exchange within the network. The application of these materials in functional adhesives is particularly promising, given the growing demand across various industries. It is well established that vitrimer films can adhere to a wide range of substrates. In this study, a novel concept of bond exchange‐based adhesion between different polymers is introduced, specifically noting that each polymer does not inherently possess bond‐exchange capabilities. The key feature lies in activating bond exchange exclusively at the interphase. Significant adhesion between commercial thermoplastic polyurethanes and cross‐linked poly(acrylate)s with hydroxy side groups randomly is demonstrated, achieved through transcarbomoylation bond exchange at the contact interphase. The incorporation of a small amount of bond exchange catalyst is crucial for enhancing adhesion, and both adhesion strength and fracture behavior can be manipulated through specific heating conditions. Overall, this study explores a new functionalization approach using the bond exchange concept, contributing to the development of a practical adhesion technique that eliminates the need for traditional adhesives.
Dynamic Modeling of Vinyl Chloride Suspension Polymerization in a Continuous Oscillatory Baffled Reactor
Authors: Silva Jonildo dos Santos , Melo Príamo Albuquerque , Marinho Rita , de Jesus Normando José Castro , Andrade Márcio Henrique Santos , Beck Priscila Martins , Pinto José Carlos
Published: February 2025

In the present work, a phenomenological model built to represent the suspension polymerization of vinyl chloride in a continuous oscillatory baffled reactor is presented for the first time. Following a previous work (Silva et al., Chemical Engineering Science, 288, 119845, 2024), a tanks‐in‐series model is employed to represent the reactor and a backflow stream is also considered to simulate backmixing. The intrinsic heterogeneous behavior of vinyl chloride polymerization adds model complexity in comparison to vinyl acetate polymerization reported in the literature. Moreover, the stronger gel effect also makes the temperature control difficult since a higher number of cooling jackets is required to keep a uniform temperature profile. The influence of residence time on reactor operation is investigated. Furthermore, the effects of initiator type and injection points on the polymerization rates and polymer properties are evaluated and shown to influence the process operation significantly.
Assessing Eligibility for Apomorphine Therapy in Parkinson's Disease: The Telemonitoring Potential
Authors: Niruban Alagaratnam , Dostal Vaclav , Mutimer Abigail , Tsamis Konstantinos , Kontaxis Spyridon , Kostikis Nicholas , Kanellos Foivos , Ntanis Adamantios , Rigas George , Konitsiotis Spyridon
Published: February 2025

Background

Although there are established guidelines for the selection of suitable candidates, objective and timely referral for the use of apomorphine remains challenging.

Objectives

This research examined how telemonitoring may facilitate referrals for continuous subcutaneous apomorphine infusion in Parkinson's disease (PD).

Methods

A Blind Rater and a multi‐disciplinary team (MDT) including an expert PD nurse, neurologist, and geriatrician determined apomorphine pump treatment eligibility for 20 patients with PD. The MDT considered telemonitoring data and physical examination to determine eligibility. The Blind Rater used only telemonitoring data (PDMonitor®) to evaluate eligibility.

Results

The results show that using wearable sensors to determine appropriateness of apomorphine pump treatment is similar to a complete method that combines objective motor symptom monitoring with clinical evaluation. The MDT and blind rater had a 0.89 Cohen's kappa coefficient, which suggests high rate of agreement. The best‐performing objective metric for differentiating patients who were recommended (APO) from those non‐recommended (non‐APO) for apomorphine pump therapy, was the device‐reported percentage of time in the “ON” state, which takes into consideration the “OFF” and dyskinesia time. The APO group had lower values in this metric and could be differentiated from the non‐APO group accurately (85%).

Conclusions

Using telemonitoring to determine eligibility for apomorphine therapy might improve evaluation and treatment in patients with PD and, therefore help improve their quality of life.
Prediction of the Appropriate Temperature and Pressure for Polymer Dissolution Using Machine Learning Models
Authors: Dadashi Dorsa , Kaedi Marjan , Dadashi Parsa , Sinha Ray Suprakas
Published: February 2025

The widespread use of polymer solutions in the chemical industry poses a significant challenge in determining optimal dissolution conditions. Traditionally, researchers have relied on experimental methods to estimate the processing parameters needed to dissolve polymers, often requiring numerous iterations of testing different temperatures and pressures. This approach is both costly and time‐consuming. In this study, for the first time, we present a machine learning‐based approach to predict the minimum temperature and pressure required for polymer dissolution, correlating molecular weight and chemical structure of both the polymer and solvent and its weight percent. Using a dataset compiled from existing literature, which includes key factors influencing polymer dissolution, we also extracted chemical bond information from the molecular structures of polymer‐solvent systems. Six different machine learning algorithms, including linear regression, k‐nearest neighbors, regression trees, random forests, multilayer perceptron neural networks, and support vector regression, were employed to develop predictive models. Among these, the Random Forest model achieved the highest accuracy, with R2 values of 0.931 and 0.942 for temperature and pressure predictions, respectively. This novel approach eliminates the need for repetitive experimental testing, offering a more efficient pathway to determining dissolution conditions.
A Nonlocal Diffusion Single Population Model in Advective Environment
Authors: Tang Yaobin , Dai Binxiang
Published: February 2025

This paper is devoted to a nonlocal reaction–diffusion–advection model that describes the spatial dynamics of freshwater organisms in a river with a directional motion. Our goal is to investigate how the advection rate affects the dynamics of the species. We first establish the well‐posedness of global solutions, where the regularized problem containing a viscosity term and the re‐established maximum principle play key roles. We then demonstrate the existence, nonexistence, uniqueness, and stability of nontrivial stationary solutions by analyzing the principal eigenvalue of the integro‐differential operator, particularly focusing on its monotonicity with respect to the advection rate. This analysis helps us understand the long‐term dynamics of solutions and derive sharp criteria for persistence or extinction. Furthermore, we study the limiting behavior of solutions with respect to the advection rate and find that a sufficiently large advection rate leads to species extinction. Lastly, numerical simulations support our theoretical results.
Normalized Ground States for Nonlinear Coupled SchröDinger Systems With Critical Exponential Growth in ℝ2$$ {\mathbb{R}}^2 $$
Authors: Tan Yawen , Chen Jing
Published: February 2025

In this paper, we study the existence of normalized ground state solutions to the nonlinear Schrödinger systems with critical exponential growth nonlinearities and nonlinear coupled terms in satisfying the normalized constraints , , and . By revealing the basic behavior of the mountain‐pass energy when coupled constant is sufficiently large and applying ingenious analysis techniques, we restore the compactness. Our results improve and extend the previous results.
Region‐guided focal adversarial learning for CT‐to‐MRI translation: A proof‐of‐concept and validation study in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Xia Yi‐Fan , Zeng Meng , Sun Shu‐Wen , Liu Qiu‐Ping , Zhang Jiu‐Lou , Zhi Rui , Lu Fei‐Yu , Chen Wei , Zhang Yu‐Dong
Published: February 2025

Background

Generative adversarial networks (GANs) have recently demonstrated significant potential for producing virtual images with the same characteristics as real‐life landscapes, thereby enhancing various medical tasks.

Purpose

To design a region‐guided focal GAN (Focal‐GAN) for translating images between CT and MRI and test its clinical applicability in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

Methods

Between January 2012 and October 2021, two cohorts of patients with HCC who underwent contrast‐enhanced CT (Center 1, n = 685) and MRI (Center 1, n = 516; Center 2, n = 318) were retrospectively enrolled. We trained the Focal‐GAN model by adding tumor regions to a baseline Cycle‐GAN framework to steer the model toward focal attention learning. The quality of the images generated was assessed using an open‐source MRQy tool. The clinical applicability of the Focal‐GAN was evaluated by applying the nnUNet and ResNet‐50 model for tumor segmentation and microvascular invasion (MVI) prediction in HCC on the generated images.

Results

In the ablation tests, Focal‐GAN achieved a higher fidelity than the conventional Cycle‐GAN in the generated image quality assessment with MRQy. Regarding applicability, regardless of tumor size, nnUNet trained with focal‐GAN‐generated images achieved higher Dice scores than nnUNet trained using Cycle‐GAN‐generated images for HCC segmentation in both internal (0.607 vs. 0.341, p < 0.01) and external (0.796 vs. 0.753, p < 0.001) validation. Additionally, ResNet‐50 trained with Focal‐GAN‐generated images produced higher areas‐under‐curve (AUCs) than ResNet‐50 trained with real images for MVI prediction in both internal (0.754 vs. 0.665, p = 0.048) and external (0.670 vs. 0.579, p < 0.001) validation.

Conclusions

The designed Focal‐GAN model can generate virtual MR images from unpaired CT images, thereby extending the clinical applicability of CT in the liver tumor diagnostic pathway.
Free Radical Entry in Emulsion Polymerization: A Comprehensive Theory
Authors: Herrera‐Ordonez Jorge
Published: February 2025

A comprehensive mathematical model for radical entry into polymer particles is proposed that includes equations and various mechanistic precepts from several works, including those of the author. The model allows estimating the contribution of the different initiator‐derived radicals to the overall particle entry rate (ρ). The results of the model are consistent with experimental data reported in the literature. Contrary to what is established by one of the most accepted theories, it is obtained that: 1) the determining step of the entry of water‐soluble oligoradicals is not their propagation in the aqueous phase but rather their diffusion and subsequent irreversible adsorption on the particles; 2) primary particles can also enter (coagulate) and contribute to the ρ value; 3) the electrostatic repulsion between oligoradicals and charged particles plays a very important role in determining the predominant species entering the particles.
Aqueous and Non‐Aqueous Synthesis of 2‐(Dimethylamino)ethyl Methacrylate (Co)Polymers by Solution Radical Polymerization: Modeling and Experimental Study
Authors: Ajogbeje Opeyemi J. , Pishnamazi Mohammad , Lacík Igor , Hutchinson Robin A.
Published: February 2025

The radical polymerization kinetics of 2‐(dimethylamino)ethyl methacrylate (DMAEMA) is explored in dimethyl sulfoxide, ethanol (EtOH), ethanol‐water (EtOH/H2O), and water. In situ nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy is used to study both solvolysis and polymerization kinetics. Hydrolysis of nonionized DMAEMA occurs in H2O and ethanolysis in EtOH/H2O mixtures to form both methacrylic acid (MAA) and ethyl methacrylate (EMA), with the presence of water increasing the rate of ethanolysis in the mixed solvent. Although some solvolysis occurred in EtOH and EtOH/H2O containing 25 wt.% H2O, the rates are sufficiently low that essentially poly(DMAEMA) homopolymer is synthesized, unlike the DMAEMA/MAA copolymer formed in water and the DMAEMA/MAA/EMA terpolymer formed in water‐rich EtOH/H2O. A model is constructed to represent the polymerization of nonionized DMAEMA in solution, with the experimental results used to estimate key rate coefficients. The model predictions show good agreement with the experimental data on monomer conversion, average molar masses, and molar mass distributions. Similarly, the rate coefficients for polymerization of ionized DMAEMA are estimated based on experiments conducted in water at pH 1 and 4. The understanding gained from these studies is combined into a comprehensive mechanistic model to describe the polymerization of partially‐ionized DMAEMA in the presence of hydrolysis.
Experiences of the Management of Uncertainty Amongst Musculoskeletal First Contact Practitioners Working in Primary Care
Authors: Parselle Matt , May Sue
Published: February 2025

Aim

To develop a deeper understanding of strategies used to manage uncertainty by Musculoskeletal First Contact Practitioners (MSK FCPs), including barriers to and facilitators for these strategies.

Background

MSK FCP services provide patients with an alternative to seeing their GP regarding MSK complaints. Research suggests that the role demands different skills and attributes from traditional physiotherapy roles, including the ability to deal with greater clinical uncertainty. There is a lack of research evaluating the strategies FCPs find most helpful for managing uncertainty.

Method

A qualitative study using semi‐structured online interviews. Participants were recruited using convenience sampling. Data was analysed using Braun & Clarke's reflexive approach to thematic analysis. The research was underpinned by a theoretical framework of hermeneutic phenomenology.

Findings

Nine participants were recruited. Three main themes were developed: (1) Being comfortable with being uncomfortable; (2) Teamwork makes the dream work and (3) Navigating uncertainty with patients.

Conclusion

This study provides further insight into how FCPs manage uncertainty. Management of uncertainty was influenced by many factors, including: clinician experience, patient complexity and wider medical knowledge, fear of over‐medicalising patients, communication and consultation styles and having protected non‐clinical time. Recommendations for clinical practice include: consideration of the challenges facing FCPs, and what support is needed to maintain staff retention, health and wellbeing; consideration of how FCPs might best approach meeting the needs of an ageing population and supporting change in health and wellness behaviour. The key to successful management of uncertainty was having a supportive team which encouraged open non‐judgemental discussions about uncertainty.
Numerical Modeling of MICP Grouting in Homogeneous and Layered Heterogeneous Soils
Authors: Ma Guo‐Liang , Yin Zhen‐Yu , Xiao Yang
Published: February 2025

Microbially induced carbonate precipitation (MICP) has been extensively studied through experiments as a potential solution for ground improvement. However, the investigation and optimization of the MICP grouting process remain incomplete due to various experimental limitations, such as budget constraints, equipment availability, time limit, and suitable sites. As a result, the numerical method could be a practical approach, providing a clearer understanding of the hydrological‐biological‐chemical processes involved, which could help improve the performance of MICP. In this study, a hydrological‐biological‐chemical coupling model was developed to simulate MICP grouting in both homogeneous and layered heterogeneous soils, which is often found in nature. The model effectively captures the impact of carbonate precipitation on critical aspects of the grouting process, such as flow field, bacterial adsorption, bacterial activity, and soil properties. Additionally, the Péclet and Damköhler numbers were introduced to comprehensively describe the impact of various grouting factors on the distribution of precipitates and the average CaCO3 increment in homogeneous soils. In layered heterogeneous soils, it was observed that some solutions migrate across the interface between the two soil layers, leading to an accumulation of precipitates near the interface and forming a wedge‐shaped CaCO3 increment zone in the lower‐permeability soil layer. Beyond this wedge‐shaped zone, the distribution of CaCO3 is comparable to that in homogeneous soils. These findings suggest that in layered heterogeneous soils, special attention should be given to the area adjacent to the soil interface in the less permeable layer, as the precipitate distribution in other regions mirrors that in corresponding homogeneous soils.
The dynamic relationship of brain‐derived neurotrophic factor and oxytocin: Introducing the concept of neurosocial plasticity
Authors: Faraji Jamshid , Metz Gerlinde A. S.
Published: February 2025

The human brain functions as a highly integrated system. Interconnected cellular and molecular networks within this system process sensory information, cognitive functions, and motor responses. The brain also exhibits a remarkable potential for plasticity‐driven adaptive learning and memory. Importantly, neuroplasticity serves as a key mechanism of neuroprotection while also enabling the brain to compensate for injury through adaptive structural remodeling. Understanding the brain as a dynamic system requires examining how its components interact to produce adaptive physiological responses and complex behaviors, such as social interactions. Key molecules, such as brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and oxytocin (OT), play pivotal roles in maintaining the brain's dynamic complexity and integrative functioning. In this review, we introduce the concept of “neurosocial plasticity”, which refers to the brain's ability to adapt both neural circuitry and social behavior through the dynamic interaction between BDNF and OT. This concept highlights how BDNF–OT interactions may support both neural plasticity and the capacity for adaptive social functioning. We then explore how their co‐localization, co‐expression, and co‐regulation may regulate neural and social plasticity, ultimately shaping the brain's adaptability and the development of social behaviors across various contexts.
A Novel Riemannian Conjugate Gradient Method on Quaternion Stiefel Manifold for Computing Truncated Quaternion Singular Value Decomposition
Authors: Huang Baohua , Jia Zhigang , Li Wen
Published: February 2025

A novel Riemannian conjugate gradient method on the quaternion Stiefel manifold is presented to solve the truncated quaternion singular value decomposition (QSVD) problem. It yields an efficient numerical implementation and can be feasibly embedded into modern machine learning methods for color image processing. The fundamental Riemannian geometry is built on a new structured Stiefel manifold, including tangent space, orthogonal projection, reaction, vector transport, and Riemannian gradient. Three new quaternion Riemannian conjugate gradient algorithms are presented, and their global convergence is proposed for the truncated QSVD computation. Numerical experiments on color image low‐rank approximation and color face recognition indicate the superiority of the newly proposed algorithms over the state‐of‐the‐art methods.
Gene Expression Profiling in the Cortex of Fabp4 Knockout Mice
Authors: Kirikae Hinako , He Xiaofeng , Ohnishi Tetsuo , Miyazaki Hirofumi , Yoshikawa Takeo , Owada Yuji , Maekawa Motoko
Published: February 2025

Aims

Fatty acid binding protein 4, adipocyte (Fabp4), is well known for its role in peripheral lipid metabolism, but its potential role in brain function remains largely unexplored. This study aimed to investigate Fabp4 expression in the adult mouse brain and explore gene expression changes in Fabp4 knockout (KO) mice to assess its potential impact on brain function.

Methods

We conducted in situ hybridization to assess Fabp4 expression in key brain regions of adult mice. In parallel, differential gene expression analysis using RNA‐seq was conducted in the prefrontal cortex of Fabp4 KO mice to identify genes affected by Fabp4 deficiency.

Results

No Fabp4 expression was detected in the brains of mice, suggesting a lack of direct involvement in the central nervous system. However, Fabp4 KO mice exhibited significant changes in gene expression in the brain, with 31 genes upregulated and 30 downregulated. Downregulated genes were linked to histone methylation and metabolic processes, while upregulated ones were associated with synaptic organization.

Conclusion

Although Fabp4 is not expressed in the brain, its deficiency leads to substantial changes in gene expression, likely mediated by peripheral metabolic pathways and epigenetic regulation. These changes may explain the previously observed autism‐like behaviors and increased dendritic spine density in Fabp4 KO mice. This study sheds light on the role of systemic lipid metabolism in neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and highlights epigenetic mechanisms as potential mediators of these effects.
Transdisciplinary pathways for wildlife conservation: A method for navigating socio‐ecological systems on private lands
Authors: Taylor Matthew , Davison Aidan , Harwood Andrew
Published: February 2025

The decline of wildlife on private land is accelerating around the world. Resulting efforts to conserve wildlife on private lands are characterised by a complex socio‐ecological interplay between human practices and wildlife.

Central to these socio‐ecological dynamics is the contradiction between fixed property boundaries and the mobility of wildlife, necessitating conservation strategies that transcend individual land parcels.

Relevant human practices include land uses such as agriculture, forestry and housing, but also underlying economic, political and cultural relationships involved in private property in land.

We focus here on private land in capitalist market societies. We argue that addressing the social‐ecological complexity involved in wildlife conservation in the context of land ownership in market societies requires new strategies that, more effectively than existing approaches, foster collaboration across private boundaries at an ecologically relevant landscape scale.

While transdisciplinary strategies have had some application in private land conservation, there is opportunity to extend and mainstream these approaches by integrating social science insights into private property relations with innovations in citizen science and community conservation.

We argue that most wildlife conservation initiatives are yet to take full advantage of opportunities provided by the social contract underlying private land for landscape‐scale landholder collaboration.

Drawing on participatory conservation projects pioneered in Tasmania, Australia, we describe ‘transdisciplinary pathways’: a methodology for navigating the social‐ecological complexities of seemingly intractable wildlife conservation problems, by integrating theoretical and applied science with local ecological knowledge.

This transdisciplinary knowledge integration is grounded in relationship building between researchers, conservation professionals and neighbourhood clusters of landowners. The resulting cohesive and adaptive networks of actors create pathways for wildlife conservation that are specific to local contexts while contributing to broader scientific and social learning.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Study on mechanical properties and microstructure of CFRTP cutting fluid assisted stir friction welding joints
Authors: Li Wenjun , Guan Kainan , Yang Chunguang , Zeng Xianghao , Sun Yibo , Hao Huihui , Yang Xinhua
Published: February 2025

The bonding technology of carbon fiber‐reinforced thermoplastics has attracted much attention in industrial fields such as airfoils and car bodies. Cutting fluid‐assisted stir friction welding is a potential method for reducing machining defects and enhancing the tensile properties of welds. In this paper, cutting fluid‐assisted friction stir welding is implemented to bond carbon fiber‐reinforced polyetherimide (CF‐PEI) plates. The welds are evaluated by surface morphology, area calculation of the OM image, SEM of the fracture, carbon fiber state, and tensile analysis. From the weld surface morphology and OM images, the weld surface quality is improved, the material loss is reduced, and the weld bonding area is increased by cutting fluid assistance, which provides an environment for the movement of carbon fibers. The microanalysis results show that cutting fluid assistance helps in the interweaving of carbon fibers, and the process parameters affect the interweaving behavior of carbon fibers. The fusion interface is enhanced due to the mechanical interlocking of the carbon fibers. The maximum tensile strength reaches 32.5Mpa, equivalent to 77% of the base material, which increases by 49.4% compared with the conventional FSW.

Highlights

Cutting fluid‐assisted friction stir welding technology is applied to the welding of carbon‐fiber‐reinforced thermoplastic.

The zones of the weld are delineated by the state of the carbon fiber and the characteristics of each zone are analyzed.

Cutting fluid assisted technology reduces weld material loss and enhances the mixing of carbon fiber and base material.

Summarize the weld enhancement mechanism by analyzing the carbon fiber microstates.
Effect of fiber thickness on damage characterization and high‐velocity impact resistance of aluminum/carbon fiber composite plate: Experiment and numerical simulation
Authors: He Chenglong , Yang Kexu , Liu Yaqing , Chen Dayong , Mao Xiang , Huang Zhixing
Published: February 2025

To explore the effect of carbon fiber (CF) backplate thickness on the ballistic performance of the Al/CF plate, the projectile impact test and numerical simulation were conducted for the damage evolution and impact resistance of the Al/CF composite plate. The penetration velocity, deformation, and failure morphologies were examined by high‐speed photography, digital image correlation (DIC), and computed tomography (CT). The results show that the effect of CF plate thickness on the mechanical support of the Al plate increases nonlinearly, and the energy absorption of the Al plate does not significantly increase when the CF plate thickness rises to a certain thickness. The fiber layer position affects the change of the fiber damage shape and the fiber damage area, the fiber damage shape changes from oval to elongated along the direction of thickness, and the fiber damage area decreases first and then increases along the direction of fiber thickness. With the fiber thickness increase, the specific energy absorption of the Al/CF composite plate decreases linearly with the areal density increase.

Highlights

A numerical simulation model was consistent with the experiment was established.

The damage mode and resistance of the target plate under impact were studied.

The thickness of the CF plate increases nonlinearly to Al plate mechanical support.

The damage area and shape of the fiber layer were quantitatively analyzed.

The linear decrease of SEA of the target plate with the increase of areal density.
Investigation and numerical simulation of impact resistance in aramid composites with interfaces reinforced by carboxymethylated cellulose nanofibers
Authors: Qi Yexiong , Li Jichen , Shao Runze , Li Ting‐Ting , Xie Long , Shen Yang , Lin Jia‐Hong
Published: February 2025

The effectiveness of aramid fiber‐reinforced polymer (AFRP) composites depends on a strong adhesion at the interface connecting the fibers to the matrix, which is essential for attaining the desired high energy absorption and effective distribution of impact forces in these materials. Subpar interfacial conditions contribute to inefficient load transfer and create stress concentrations, potentially diminishing impact resistance performance and causing severe failure. Cellulose nanofibers (CNFs) exhibit considerable potential for reinforcing interfaces within polymeric composite systems that are fiber‐reinforced, owing to their substantial tensile strength and modulus, extensive specific surface area, and versatile properties. However, due to the stable chemical properties of aramid fibers, CNFs cannot truly serve the role of phase reinforcement, which limits their application to AFRPs. In this work, we have adsorbed carboxymethylated cellulose nanofibers (CNF‐Cs) onto aramid fibers via a straightforward and efficient dip‐coating approach, increasing the friction coefficient between the fibers and thereby improving the internal friction of the woven aramid fiber reinforcement. This approach yields the CNF‐C interface and enhances the energy absorption efficiency of the composites, while preserving the impact resistance properties of the aramid fibers. The CNF‐C treatment yielded a 9.4% increase in the impact load and 12.05% increase in the toughness. This method strengthens the fiber‐matrix interface without reducing the aramid fiber's impact resistance. It offers a quick and reliable way to enhance the impact resistance of AFRP composites.

Highlights

The CNF‐Cs was developed to enhance composite impact resistance.

Numerical simulation effectively analyzed the effectiveness of CNF‐Cs.

The impact load capacity of the composite materials increased by 9.4%.

The maximum deflection improved by 12.05%.
Ocular involvement in newly diagnosed pediatric leukemia: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Nazzicone Kristina , Kim Rachel , Fine Alexa , Pucchio Aidan , Wheaton Laura , Law Christine
Published: February 2025

Importance

Ocular involvement in pediatric leukemia is often under‐recognized, especially in asymptomatic cases. Prevalence estimates of childhood leukemic ophthalmopathy range from 0.32% to 71%, depending on the study design and population.

Objective

To determine the prevalence and describe the nature of ocular involvement in newly diagnosed pediatric leukemia through systematic review and meta‐analysis.

Methods

A comprehensive search of MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane, and Web of Science databases was conducted up to July 2024. Studies reporting on ocular involvement at diagnosis in children aged 18 years or younger with leukemia were included. Cases of relapsed disease were excluded as were those receiving concurrent treatment. A random effects meta‐analysis using an inverse‐variance restricted maximum likelihood approach was performed for prevalence estimates.

Results

Fourteen studies involving 2989 pediatric leukemia patients were included. The overall pooled prevalence of ocular involvement at diagnosis was 20.32% (95%CI = 9.88%–33.08%). The prevalence of asymptomatic ocular involvement was higher at 23.90% (95%CI = 10.27%–40.63%) compared to 14.75% (95%CI = 0.00%–45.31%) for symptomatic involvement alone. High heterogeneity (I2 = 97.7%) was observed across studies, likely driven by differences in study design and populations.

Interpretation

Ocular involvement in newly diagnosed pediatric leukemia is more common than previously understood, particularly for asymptomatic cases. Current practices of selective ophthalmic assessment may miss a number of early‐stage ocular manifestations, emphasizing the need for all newly diagnosed patients to be screened for ophthalmic involvement at the time of diagnosis.
Sulfonated Fe‐MOF Solid Acid Catalyst for High‐Efficient Depolymerization of Polyamide 6
Authors: Liu Yang , Cao Guodong , Zhu Xuelong , Zhang Yi , Liang Chenglu , Chen Yukun
Published: February 2025

Upcycling the wasted polyamide 6 (PA6) to its monomer caprolactam via depolymerization is a promising way to build the resource cycling and alleviate the environmental pollution. High efficient catalyst for PA6 depolymerization is desirable and crucial. Herein, a sulfonated Fe‐MOF catalyst was designed and performed as solid acid catalyst for the PA6 depolymerization for the first time. Results showed that a 100% conversion of PA6 solid to water‐soluble liquid products can be achieved at temperatures of 250°C after only 1‐h reaction. LC/MS results indicated that the water‐soluble products were mainly composed of caprolactam and their oligomers. Without catalyst, nearly no water‐soluble products can be obtained at the same condition. Moreover, a high selectivity of 90% caprolactam production in the water‐soluble liquid products was achieved at 260°C, 5 h. The reaction rate constants at 240°C, 250°C, and 260°C were determined to be 0.024, 0.033, and 0.064, respectively, with a Ea value of 101.8 kJ/mol, showing positive temperature dependent relationship. The comparison of catalytic performances over sulfonated Fe‐MOFs, FeCl3·6H2O and the pristine un‐sulfonated Fe‐MOF suggested the synergistic contribution of Fe sites (Lewis acid centers) and the sulfonic acid sites to the catalytic performances.
Comparison of Three Methods in Estimating the Oral Endotracheal Tube Insertion Depth in Neonates: Nasal Septum–Tragus Length, Weight, or Gestation? A Randomized Trial
Authors: Akkaya Aykut , Ilhan Ozkan , Kocaoglu Ipek , Hakan Nilay
Published: February 2025

Objective

This study compared the performances of nasal septum–tragus length (NTL)‐based formula, body weight‐based formula, and gestational age (GA)‐based table in estimating the depth of oral endotracheal tube (ETT) insertion in neonates.

Methods

Neonates undergoing oral endotracheal intubation were recruited in this study. The depths of orotracheal tubes were estimated using NTL‐based formula (NTL + 1 cm for neonates weighing < 2500 g and NTL + 0.5 cm for neonates weighing ≥ 2500 g), body weight‐based formula (Duke formula for neonates weighing < 1000 g and “weight in kilograms + 6 cm” for neonates weighing ≥ 1000 g), and GA‐based table. The neonates were also divided into subgroups according to their corrected GA (< 37 and ≥ 37 weeks) and body weight (< 2500 and ≥ 2500 g). The proper position of ETT tip placement was considered to be between the upper border of T1 and the lower border of T2 on a chest radiograph.

Results

In this study, 102 neonates (GA of 22–41 weeks) were included. The rates of proper ETT placement were not significantly different between the NTL (48.6%), weight (44.1%), and GA (45.4%) methods. The rate of proper ETT tip placement was the highest in the NTL group. The correlation between the estimated ETT depth and the optimal ETT depth was the strongest in the NTL group for all patients and subgroups. This positive correlation was significant only in the NTL group for neonates weighing ≥ 2500 g (r = 0.646 and p = 0.009) and those with a corrected GA of ≥ 37 weeks (r = 0.757 and p = 0.011).

Conclusion

The NTL formula (NTL + 1 cm for neonates weighing < 2500 g and NTL + 0.5 cm for neonates weighing ≥ 2500 g) may be more reliable for estimating ETT depth in neonates.
Engineering a novel entomopathogenic strain Pseudomonas chlororaphis for efficient production of double‐stranded RNAs and pest control
Authors: Xie Mengmeng , Wang Qinghai , Zhou Niexin , Yu Saisai , Zhang Guiming , Yang Sheng , Zhang Jiang
Published: February 2025

BACKGROUND

RNA interference (RNAi)‐based pesticides are emerging as the next generation of pest control solutions. We have previously identified Pseudomonas chlororaphis strain R3‐3, which exhibits toxicity towards Plagiodera versicolora.

RESULTS

We engineered a mutant strain derived from R3‐3, named P. chlororaphis BM, through knocking out the RNase III gene and incorporating a T7 RNA polymerase expression system to boost dsRNA production. We revealed that P. chlororaphis BM produced comparable amounts of dsRNA to the strain E. coli HT115 (DE3) while maintaining its insecticidal activity. Importantly, insect feeding bioassays demonstrated that P. chlororaphis BM expressing dsRNA targeted β‐Actin (encoding β‐actin protein) of P. versicolora and Srp54K (encoding signal recognition particle protein 54 k) of Henosepilachna vigintioctopunctata exhibited enhanced insecticidal efficacy compared to E. coli HT115 (DE3).

CONCLUSIONS

The development of P. chlororaphis BM, a novel dsRNA‐expressing bacterium, holds promise for pest management due to its robust dsRNA production and sustained insecticidal activity. This research paves the way for leveraging biocontrol bacteria in RNAi‐based pest management strategies. © 2025 Society of Chemical Industry.
The Effect of the Substrate Doping on the Properties of Structure Ga2O3–ZnGeP2
Authors: Podzyvalov Sergei , Kalygina Vera , Yudin Nikolay , Slyunko Elena , Zinovev Mikhail , Kuznetsov Vladimir , Shaimerdenova Leila , Baalbaki Houssain
Published: February 2025

The influence of doping ZnGeP2 (ZGP) crystals on the electrical and photoelectric characteristics of Ga2O3/ZGP structures is studied. Samples are obtained by radio frequency magnetron sputtering of a gallium oxide film onto polished ZGP plates, undoped and doped with Sn, Se, Pb, or Zn. It is shown that the structures on doped ZGP with Sn and Se have a less dark current than the structures in undoped ZGP. The structures exhibit a photovoltaic effect under the exposure of radiation in the UV range with λ = 254 nm and in the long‐wavelength range with λ = 808. To obtain solar‐blind structures, it is necessary to use ZGP:Sn crystals. To increase the sensitivity of the samples to long‐wavelength radiation, it is advisable to dope ZGP plates with Pb or Zn. The behavior of the electrical and photoelectric characteristics of the studied samples with the doping different impurities is not related to the parameters of ZGP but is most likely determined by the change in the properties of the Ga2O3/ZGP heterointerface as a result of doping.
Effective Thermal Conductivity of Flexible Two‐Layer Aluminum Nitride/Polytetrafluoroethylene Structure
Authors: Rudenko Eduard , Burlakov Viktor , Korotash Ihor , Dyakin Maksym , Polotskiy Denys , Kalenyuk Oleksii
Published: February 2025

In this study, the thermal conductivity of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) coated with thin layer of aluminum nitride (AlN) deposited using a hybrid helicon‐arc ion‐plasma reactor is investigated. The thermal conductivity flexible two‐layer AlN/PTFE structure is measured using the 3ω method. In the results, it is indicated that two‐layer PTFE structure with a ≈2 μm thickness layer of the AlN coating exhibits effective coefficient thermal conductivity of λ = 0.7031 W m−1 K−1, which is nearly three times higher than that of non‐coated PTFE (0.2–0.3 W m−1 K−1). This is attributed to the increased inelastic mean free path of phonons due to high adhesion and the effective heat dissipation properties of the AlN coating. Pretreating PTFE in helicon plasma significantly improves adhesion of AlN coatings, with adhesion strength reaching σ ≥ 10 MPa compared to σ ≈ 0.45 MPa on untreated surfaces. In this study, the potential of AlN coatings to enhance the thermal properties of polymer‐based materials is highlighted. Specifically, AlN/PTFE structure can be applied for the input windows of cryogenic ultrasensitive receivers in next‐generation navigation systems, providing improved protection against harmful environmental thermal radiation.
On the Estimation of Generalized Lifetime Performance Index Based on Exponentiated Exponential Distributed Characteristics Under Progressive Censoring
Authors: Yadav Abhimanyu Singh , Singh Sanjay Kumar , Saha Mahendra
Published: February 2025

In this article, the generalized lifetime performance index (GLPI) is taken into consideration where the process distribution follows exponentiated exponential distribution. The different classical estimation procedures, namely, maximum likelihood estimation (MLE), least squares, weighted least squares, and maximum product spacing estimation (MPSE) methods have been discussed using progressively type‐II censored samples. Next, the Bayesian estimation of the considered index with gamma prior distribution has been derived using the symmetric as well as asymmetric loss functions. Further, the different parametric interval estimation techniques, namely, asymptotic confidence interval based on MLE and MPSE, bootstrap confidence intervals, and Bayes credible intervals have been obtained for the considered censoring schemes. Monte Carlo simulation study has been carried out to compare these estimators in terms of their mean squared errors and simulated posterior risks, respectively. Lastly, two real data sets have been re‐analyzed to illustrate applications of the proposed GLPI under progressively type‐II censored scheme.
A Laser Ablation ICP‐MS Protocol for High‐Resolution Iodine‐to‐Calcium Ratio (I/Ca) Analysis on Corals
Authors: Prow‐Fleischer Ashley N. , Lu Zunli
Published: February 2025

Rationale

Corals are continuous, time‐resolved archives of ambient seawater geochemistry and can extend climate records beyond direct monitoring. The iodine‐to‐calcium (I/Ca) ratio may be a proxy for local oxygen depletion in corals, but the current solution‐based ICP‐MS protocol limits sampling resolution. A protocol was developed for rapid analysis of coral I/Ca using laser ablation ICP‐MS.

Methods

Two reference materials, a powdered coral (JCp‐1) and a synthetic carbonate (MACS‐3), were compared for precision in measuring Sr, Mg, I, Ba, and U. Then, the influence of laser parameters (spot size, fluence, repetition rate, and scan speed) on iodine sensitivity from the reference material was evaluated to optimize laser settings for accurate and reproducible I/Ca calibration. Then, I/Ca was measured in line scans along and across the ambulacrum in a Diploria labyrinthiformis coral.

Results

We find that JCp‐1 has greater precision in measuring iodine, as well as other traces, compared to MACS‐3. At a 10 Hz repetition rate, spot sizes from 150 to 85 μm obtained concentrations in agreement with certified values, but higher repetition rates overestimated iodine concentrations from JCp‐1. Certain scan speeds and fluence can introduce noise, likely due to matrix effects, but the signal‐to‐noise ratio can be improved by adjacent‐average filtering. Using this simple data filtering routine and optimized laser settings, the highest resolution for accurate I/Ca analysis is < 100 μm. While the fine‐scale (< 250 μm) I/Ca variabilities in parallel transects in a coral sample likely resulted from biomineralization processes, large ‐scale features (> 500 μm) along the ambulacrum tend to correlate.

Conclusions

LA‐ICP‐MS has great potential for accurate, high‐resolution I/Ca profiling in corals using JCp‐1 as a calibration standard. Because of compositional variability near centers of calcification, it is important to pay attention to how the laser transect is aligned relative to skeletal elements, which may incorporate iodine differently.