bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Challenges and Opportunities for Large‐Scale Electrode Processing for Sodium‐Ion and Lithium‐Ion Battery
Authors: Klemens Julian , Wurba Ann‐Kathrin , Burger David , Müller Marcus , Bauer Werner , Büchele Sebastian , Leonet Olatz , Blázquez J. Alberto , Boyano Iker , Ayerbe Elixabete , Ehrenberg Helmut , Fleischer Jürgen , Smith Anna , Scharfer Philip , Schabel Wilhelm
Published: August 2023

Sodium‐ion batteries are an emerging technology that is still at an early stage of development. The electrode processing for anode and cathode is expected to be similar to lithium‐ion batteries (drop‐in technology), yet a detailed comparison is not published. There are ongoing questions about the influence of the active materials on processing parameters such as slurry viscosity, coating thicknesses, drying times, and behavior during fast drying. Herein, the expected drying time for the same areal capacity of anodes (graphite vs. hard carbon) and cathodes (lithium iron phosphate vs. Prussian blue analogs) are compared based on respective specific capacities reported in the literature. Estimates are made for the materials’ impact on production speed or dryer length. Within the experimental part, water‐based slurries of the same composition are mixed using different active materials according to identical procedure and the viscosity is compared. When drying at a constant drying rate (0.75 g m−2 s−1), lithium iron phosphate electrodes with different areal capacities (1–3 mAh cm−2) are shown to have the highest adhesion. For high drying rates (3 g m−2 s−1) at constant areal capacity, especially the investigated electrodes based on hard carbon show that no binder migration occurs.
Eliminating genes for a two‐component system increases PHB productivity in Cupriavidus basilensis 4G11 under PHB suppressing, nonstress conditions
Authors: Sander Kyle , Abel Anthony J. , Friedline Skyler , Sharpless William , Skerker Jeffrey , Deutschbauer Adam , Clark Douglas S. , Arkin Adam P.
Published: August 2023

Species of bacteria from the genus Cupriavidus are known, in part, for their ability to produce high amounts of poly‐hydroxybutyrate (PHB) making them attractive candidates for bioplastic production. The native synthesis of PHB occurs during periods of metabolic stress, and the process regulating the initiation of PHB accumulation in these organisms is not fully understood. Screening an RB‐TnSeq transposon library of Cupriavidus basilensis 4G11 allowed us to identify two genes of an apparent, uncharacterized two‐component system, which when omitted from the genome enable increased PHB productivity in balanced, nonstress growth conditions. We observe average increases in PHB productivity of 56% and 41% relative to the wildtype parent strain upon deleting each gene individually from the genome. The increased PHB phenotype disappears, however, in nitrogen‐free unbalanced growth conditions suggesting the phenotype is specific to fast‐growing, replete, nonstress growth. Bioproduction modeling suggests this phenotype could be due to a decreased reliance on metabolic stress induced by nitrogen limitation to initiate PHB production in the mutant strains. Due to uncertainty in the two‐component system's input signal and regulon, the mechanism by which these genes impart this phenotype remains unclear. Such strains may allow for the use of single‐stage, continuous bioreactor systems, which are far simpler than many PHB bioproduction schemes used previously, given a similar product yield to batch systems in such a configuration. Bioproductivity modeling suggests that omitting this regulation in the cells may increase PHB productivity up to 24% relative to the wildtype organism when using single‐stage continuous systems. This work expands our understanding of the regulation of PHB accumulation in Cupriavidus, in particular the initiation of this process upon transition into unbalanced growth regimes.
Adult‐onset Still's disease complicated by macrophage activation syndrome
Authors: Awoyemi Toluwalase , Conti Alexandra , Aguilar Frank G.
Published: August 2023

Key Clinical Message

Young patients with persistent rash and fevers despite antibiotic treatment should be evaluated for non‐infectious etiologies. In our patient's case, these findings led to a diagnosis of MAS, which ultimately affected how she was managed.

Adult‐onset Still's disease (AOSD) is a rare, often difficult to diagnose autoimmune disease that typically presents as a rash, unresolving fevers and joint pains capable of mimicking a number of autoimmune diseases. Here, we present the case of a young postpartum woman whose clinical presentation, which included a pruritic maculopapular rash that evolved to include a flagellate component, and serological studies, chief among them cytopenias and a Ferritin >15,000 nm/mL) allowed us to make an early diagnosis of AOSD complicated by macrophage activation syndrome. We discuss the treatment for AOSD complicated by MAS with Hydrocortisone and Anakinra, the final discharge regimen prescribed for our patient, and report on her state 3 months post‐hospitalization, which was favorable. Our case is unique because we ultimately believe that pregnancy itself triggered her ASOD, because of how the quality of the flagellate component of her rash allowed us to narrow the differential diagnosis, and because of how the significant cytopenias and significant liver dysfunction alerted us to the possibility of MAS.
Single‐atom Pt on carbon nanotubes for selective electrocatalysis
Authors: Hardisty Samuel S. , Lin Xiaoqian , Kucernak Anthony R. J. , Zitoun David
Published: August 2023

Utilizing supported single atoms as catalysts presents an opportunity to reduce the usage of critical raw materials such as platinum, which are essential for electrochemical reactions such as hydrogen oxidation reaction (HOR). Herein, we describe the synthesis of a Pt single electrocatalyst inside single‐walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) via a redox reaction. Characterizations via electron microscopy, X‐ray photoelectron microscopy, and X‐ray absorption spectroscopy show the single‐atom nature of the Pt. The electrochemical behavior of the sample to hydrogen and oxygen was investigated using the advanced floating electrode technique, which minimizes mass transport limitations and gives a thorough insight into the activity of the electrocatalyst. The single‐atom samples showed higher HOR activity than state‐of‐the‐art 30% Pt/C while almost no oxygen reduction reaction activity in the proton exchange membrane fuel cell operating range. The selective activity toward HOR arose as the main fingerprint of the catalyst confinement in the SWCNTs.
Biologische Methanisierung als innovative Energiespeichertechnologie für den Einsatz auf Biogasanlagen
Authors: Manig Robert , Deutschmann Anne , Birkner Christoph
Published: August 2023

Im Rahmen des Verbundprojektes BioStore (SAB, FKZ: 100310024) wurde ein Verfahren zur biologischen Methanisierung in Blasensäulenreaktoren optimiert. Neben Einzelblasensäulen in verschiedenen Maßstäben wurde eine Kaskadenlösung vergleichend untersucht. Zielstellung war auf energieintensive Komponenten wie Rührwerke und Gasabtrennung weitestgehend zu verzichten. Das Gaseinbringsystem als entscheidendes leistungsbestimmendes Bauteil zur Maximierung von Umsatz und Methangehalt wurde optimiert. Im Ergebnis wurde ein Methangehalt von 96 Vol.‐% bei einer Methanbildungsrate von 2 L/(L · d) im kontinuierlichen Betrieb erreicht. Damit ist eine Voraussetzung für die Direkteinspeisung in das deutsche Erdgasnetz erfüllt.
Construction of Tumor Microenvironment‐Responsive Gene Carriers
Authors: Lin Dongfa , Yu Chenxi , Yang Lixinhao , Huang Shangyuan , Song Muyi , Liu Shuting , Guan Shuwen
Published: August 2023

Peptide‐ and polypeptide‐based self‐assembling gene delivery systems have received considerable attention owing to their inherent biocompatibility and bioactivity. Gene carriers based on elastin‐like polypeptides (ELPs) have been extensively studied because of their controllability and unique temperature responsiveness. The (EK)10‐PLGLAG‐Tat polypeptide sequence was selected for tumor gene delivery, with ELP serving as the hydrophobic core. In this sequence, a hydration layer can be formed on the surface of the carrier using the zwitterionic peptide segment (EK)10, which helps prevent the nonspecific adsorption of plasma proteins. Additionally, the MMP‐2 enzyme‐responsive PLGLAG peptide segment is responsible for exposing the cell‐penetrating peptide Tat specifically near tumor cells, facilitating the penetration of tumor cells. To introduce (EK)10‐PLGLAG‐Tat into the self‐assembling carrier while ensuring its bioactivity, a leucine zipper ZR/ZE with opposite charges was used to link it to the ELP. Because of its high specificity and low systemic toxicity, the carrier was named environmentally responsive gene carrier (ERGV). Experimental results demonstrated that the ERGV effectively removed (EK)10 in MMP‐2 overexpressed environments, altering the surface charge from negative to positive and facilitating ssDNA delivery into tumor cells. These findings highlight the potential of ERGVs as a safe and efficient method for targeted gene delivery to tumors.
Towards a Correlation Between Iron/Cobalt Content, Support Pore Size and Metal Particle Size in Supported Catalysts
Authors: Battiston Lucas L. , Oliveira Kátia D. , Lião Luciano M. , Oliveira Gerlon A. R. , Kolicheski Mônica B. , Ávila‐Neto Cícero N.
Published: August 2023

Fe−Co‐based catalysts supported on γ‐Al2O3, Aerosil 200 silica and zeolite 4A were prepared by co‐precipitation of the respective nitrates in the presence of ammonium hydroxide. The objective was to demonstrate the influence of Fe/Co mass ratio and support pore size on metal particle size. Catalysts were characterized by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), N2 physisorption, Fourier‐transformed infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and scanning (SEM) and transmission (TEM) microscopies. It was demonstrated that the minimal presence of Fe was enough to reduce the average particle diameters by half. Increasing Fe content did not cause proportional decreases in the average particle diameter. The support pore diameter probably played a role in the crystallization step of bimetallic and Fe monometallic catalysts, whose particle diameters were similar to those observed for the pores. This phenomenon was not observed for Co monometallic catalysts.
Cost‐effectiveness analysis of the artificial intelligence diagnosis support system for early gastric cancers
Authors: Yonazu Shion , Ozawa Tsuyoshi , Nakanishi Tamiji , Ochiai Kentaro , Shibata Junichi , Osawa Hiroyuki , Hirasawa Toshiaki , Kato Yusuke , Tajiri Hisao , Tada Tomohiro
Published: August 2023

Objectives

The introduction of artificial intelligence into the medical field has improved the diagnostic capabilities of physicians. However, few studies have analyzed the economic impact of employing artificial intelligence technologies in the clinical environment. This study evaluated the cost‐effectiveness of a computer‐assisted diagnosis (CADx) system designed to support clinicians in differentiating early gastric cancers from non‐cancerous lesions in Japan, where the universal health insurance system was introduced.

Methods

The target population to be used for the CADx was estimated as those with moderate to severe gastritis caused by Helicobacter pylori infection. Decision trees with Markov models were built to analyze the cumulative cost‐effectiveness of using CADx relative to the pre‐artificial intelligence status quo, a condition reconstructed from data in published reports. After conducting a base‐case analysis, we performed sensitivity analyses by modifying several parameters. The primary outcome was the incremental cost‐effectiveness ratio.

Results

Compared with the status quo as represented in the base‐case analysis, the incremental cost‐effectiveness ratio of CADx in the Japanese market was forecasted to be 11,093 USD per quality‐adjusted life year. The sensitivity analyses demonstrated that the expected incremental cost‐effectiveness ratios were within the willingness‐to‐pay threshold of 50,000 USD per quality‐adjusted life year when the cost of the CAD was less than 104 USD.

Conclusions

Using CADx for EGCs may decrease their misdiagnosis, contributing to improved cost‐effectiveness in Japan.
A nitrifier‐enriched microbial community contributes to the degradation of environmental DNA
Authors: Beattie Rachelle E. , Helbing Caren C. , Imbery Jacob J. , Klymus Katy E. , Lopez Duran Jonathan , Richter Catherine A. , Thambirajah Anita A. , Thompson Nathan , Edwards Thea M.
Published: August 2023

Environmental DNA (eDNA) surveys are a promising alternative to traditional monitoring of invasive species, rare species, and biodiversity. Detecting organism‐specific eDNA reduces the need to collect physical specimens for population estimates, and the high sensitivity of eDNA assays may improve detection of rare or cryptic species. However, correlating estimated concentrations of eDNA with species abundance can be difficult due to the many abiotic and biotic factors that influence eDNA persistence and degradation. Here, we assessed the impact of a nitrifier‐enriched microbial (NEM) community on the persistence and degradation of Hypophthalmichthys molitrix (silver carp) milt eDNA using experimental aquatic mesocosms and a quantitative PCR approach. The NEM community was cultured from combined sediment and water samples collected from a golf course pond in Columbia, Missouri (USA), and experiments were conducted in the dark at 22°C. We found that the NEM community transformed organic nitrogen from silver carp milt to measurable amounts of nitrate, both in the presence and absence of ammonia nitrogen. Additionally, regardless of ammonia availability, milt eDNA followed a one‐phase exponential decay pattern after an initial 24‐h plateau in the presence of the NEM community. However, milt eDNA had a shorter half‐life (12.5 h) in the absence of exogenous ammonia compared to when ammonia was present (15 h). In sterile mesocosms, eDNA was stable during the 72‐h experiment. Together, these results suggest that the presence of microorganisms is necessary for short‐term degradation of eDNA. Furthermore, nitrifying microbial communities, which are ubiquitous in most soil and water environments, could limit eDNA persistence in the environment. Understanding the contributions of environmental microbial communities will allow more confidence in sampling design and eDNA result interpretations for biodiversity management applications.
Pediatric prognostic models predicting inhospital child mortality in resource‐limited settings: An external validation study
Authors: Ogero Morris , Ndiritu John , Sarguta Rachel , Tuti Timothy , Akech Samuel
Published: August 2023

Background and Aims

Prognostic models provide evidence‐based predictions and estimates of future outcomes, facilitating decision‐making, patient care, and research. A few of these models have been externally validated, leading to uncertain reliability and generalizability. This study aims to externally validate four models to assess their transferability and usefulness in clinical practice. The models include the respiratory index of severity in children (RISC)‐Malawi model and three other models by Lowlavaar et al.

Methods

The study used data from the Clinical Information Network (CIN) to validate the four models where the primary outcome was in‐hospital mortality. 163,329 patients met eligibility criteria. Missing data were imputed, and the logistic function was used to compute predicted risk of in‐hospital mortality. Models' discriminatory ability and calibration were determined using area under the curve (AUC), calibration slope, and intercept.

Results

The RISC‐Malawi model had 50,669 pneumonia patients who met the eligibility criteria, of which the case‐fatality ratio was 4406 (8.7%). Its AUC was 0.77 (95% CI: 0.77−0.78), whereas the calibration slope was 1.04 (95% CI: 1.00 −1.06), and calibration intercept was 0.81 (95% CI: 0.77−0.84). Regarding the external validation of Lowlavaar et al. models, 10,782 eligible patients  were included, with an in‐hospital mortality rate of 5.3%. The primary model's AUC was 0.75 (95% CI: 0.72−0.77), the calibration slope was 0.78 (95% CI: 0.71−0.84), and the calibration intercept was 0.37 (95% CI: 0.28−0.46). All models markedly underestimated the risk of mortality.

Conclusion

All externally validated models exhibited either underestimation or overestimation of the risk as judged from calibration statistics. Hence, applying these models with confidence in settings other than their original development context may not be advisable. Our findings strongly suggest the need for recalibrating these model to enhance their generalizability.
Intergenerational transfers in China: What are the patterns of the transfers and when do the transfers occur?
Authors: Xu Jingjing
Published: August 2023

China's social safety net is still underdeveloped, hence family support in the form of intergenerational transfers often serves as a substitute for the public transfer system. Using data from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study, this paper finds that both upstream inter‐vivos transfers (from children to parents) and downstream inter‐vivos transfers (from parents to children) are prevalent in urban China. Moreover, the relative income status of the parent and children has an impact on inter‐vivos transfers. To investigate what economic factors generate the observed patterns of inter‐vivos transfers, this paper adopts a general equilibrium life‐cycle model in which overlapping generations are altruistically linked and calibrates the model to match data from urban China. Counterfactual experiments of removing one source of economic risk or modifying the social security replacement rate from the baseline model at a time reveal that intergenerational transfers mainly serve as informal insurance against the income risk of the children.
Comprehensive investigation of electronic structure, phonon spectrum and thermoelectric performance of LuMSb (M = Ni, Pd, Pt) half Heusler compounds from first principles
Authors: Satyam Jagdish Kumar , Saini Sapan Mohan
Published: August 2023

We studied the structural, electronic, phonon spectrum and thermoelectric properties of ternary LuMSb (M = Ni, Pd, Pt) half Heusler compounds by using first principles method. The electronic properties are calculated via energy band structure and density of states by using GGA + U approximation. The calculations reveal that the replacement of Ni with Pd and Pt, energy gap decreases and LuNiSb, LuPdSb are found to have narrow indirect band gaps and exhibit semiconducting nature, while LuPtSb is found to be a gapless semiconductor. Phonon band structure calculations give only positive values of phonon frequency indicating the dynamically stability of these compounds. The thermoelectric properties have been computed using semi‐classical Boltzmann transport theory. We found high Seebeck coefficient (S) and high power factor (PF) for LuNiSb and LuPdSb compounds in the whole temperature range. The ZT values of LuNiSb and LuPdSb are high in general and reach a maximum of 0.67 and 0.69 at 450 K, respectively, whereas 0.39 is the maximum ZT value for LuPtSb at the same temperature. These findings propose LuNiSb and LuPdSb compounds as promising materials for thermoelectric applications at room temperature.
Would the choice of multiplex platform impact the management of the allergic patient? A first approach focusing on LTPs
Authors: Cabrera Carmen Maria , Horrillo Moisés Labrador , Brito Francisco Feo , Palacios‐Cañas Alberto
Published: August 2023

Background

In the Mediterranean area, patients with LTP syndrome who are sensitized to multiple allergens are often tested for sIgE using multiplex platforms. The results obtained from different commercial platforms are not interchangeable, so it is important to compare and validate the platform selected for use. The objective of this study is to compare and validate the performance of the ImmunoCAP ISAC E112i and the macroarray ALEX2 in our daily practice.

Methods

From August 2021 to March 2022, we tested 20 random serum samples from polysensitized patients using the ALEX2 test (MADx) and ImmunoCAP tIgE and ISAC E112i (Thermo Fisher Scientific). We compared the total IgE (tIgE) and sIgE levels for shared allergens.

Results

The heatmap generally showed more intense results for ISAC. The overall correlation was good, but some exceptions were noted. The main discrepancies were found for Ole e 7, which was positive for 11 patients in ISAC but negative for all patients in ALEX2, and for nut LTPs, for which ISAC showed a threefold higher detection rate for Ara h 9 and a fivefold higher detection rate for Cor a 8 and Jug r 3 compared to ALEX2. The regression model showed no interchangeability of tIgE results.

Conclusions

Despite our small sample size and the complexity of comparing a quantitative and a semi‐quantitative platform, our results suggest that patient diagnosis and management can be influenced by the platform used. Therefore, our findings must be taken into consideration when choosing a platform to use for some profiles of LTP‐polysensitized patients, even though more data is needed.
Homicides of psychologists, physicians, nurses, pharmacists, social workers, and other health professionals: National Violent Death Reporting System data 2003–2020
Authors: Robiner William N. , Barnes Rachel D. , Freese Rebecca L. , Palmer Brooke , Kim Michael H.
Published: August 2023

Objective

Homicide is the extreme endpoint along the continuum of interpersonal violence. Violence in healthcare settings and directed toward healthcare workers has been a growing concern. Analysis of health professionals' homicides is needed to inform prevention interventions.

Methods

Decedent numbers, age, and sex in the National Violent Death Reporting System are reported for 10 types of health professionals: advance practice registered nurses, dentists, nurses, pharmacists, physicians, physician assistants, psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and veterinarians.

Results

Between 2003 and 2020, 944 homicides of these professionals were reported to the NVDRS. Nearly 80% of victims were women; 53% of homicides involved guns. Nurses, social workers, physicians, and pharmacists comprised the most victims. In 2020, nurses, social workers, pharmacists, and psychologists had the highest homicide rates relative to their workforce size. Few of these homicides were related to professionals' work. The number of homicides within these professions correlated highly with the size of professions' workforces.

Conclusions

Health professionals' homicides constitute a small proportion of US homicides generally at lower rates than seen in the general population. Age is likely one of the protective factors. Future, more comprehensive data will provide greater insights into emerging trends to inform strategies to mitigate homicide risk in health professionals. Prevention needs to go beyond healthcare settings and address societal roots of violence.
Mpox risk perception and associated factors among Chinese young men who have sex with men: Results from a large cross‐sectional survey
Authors: Jiao Kedi , Xu Yutong , Huang Siwen , Zhang Yuhang , Zhou Jingtao , Li Yan , Xiao Yongkang , Ma Wei , He Lin , Ren Xianlong , Dai Zhen , Sun Jiaruo , Li Qingyu , Cheng Feng , Liang Wannian , Luo Sitong
Published: August 2023

The mpox outbreak since 2022 had attacked the community of men who have sex with men (MSM) heavily. This large cross‐sectional study investigated the levels and associated factors of mpox risk perception among young MSM (YMSM) aged 18–29 years in six provincial regions of China in September 2022. The participants were recruited via facility‐based sampling. Mpox risk perception was measured by perceived susceptibility and perceived severity of mpox. Geodetector was used to measure stratified heterogeneity of mpox risk perception. Univariate and multivariable linear regressions were used to examine the factors associated with mpox risk perception. A total of 2493 participants were included with a mean age of 24.6 years. The proportion of perceiving a susceptibility of mpox under different scenarios ranged 3.7%–17.0% and that of perceiving a severity of mpox ranged 81.6%–83.2%. Stratified heterogeneity of perceived susceptibility, perceived severity, and overall perceived risk of mpox were observed in several characteristics such as study sites, monthly income, risk behaviors, and psychosocial factors. Multivariable regression showed the level of mpox risk perception was positively associated with having in‐person gathering activities (ba = 0.457, 95% CI: 0.208, 0.705), history of HIV infection (ba = 0.431, 95% CI: 0.028, 0.834), depressive symptoms (ba = 0.069, 95% CI: 0.049, 0.090), and self‐stigma to MSM identity (ba = 0.047, 95% CI: 0.024, 0.071). The Chinese YMSM showed a high level of perceived severity of mpox but a low level of perceived susceptibility. It is warranted to strengthen targeted risk communication of mpox, develop comprehensive and unstigmatized health messages, and provide mental health support for YMSM.
Licochalcone A plays dual antiviral roles by inhibiting RSV and protecting against host damage
Authors: Li Zhongyuan , Li Baohong , Chen Zinuo , Xu Jinke , El Sabbagh Asma , Zhao Yangang , Du Ruikun , Rong Lijun , Tian Jingzhen , Cui Qinghua
Published: August 2023

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) causes lower respiratory tract diseases and bronchiolitis in children and elderly individuals. There are no effective drugs currently available to treat RSV infection. In this study, we report that Licochalcone A (LCA) can inhibit RSV replication and mitigate RSV‐induced cell damage in vitro, and that LCA exerts a protective effect by reducing the viral titer and inflammation in the lungs of infected mice in vivo. We suggest that the mechanism of action occurs through pathways of antioxidant stress and inflammation. Further mechanistic results demonstrate that LCA can induce nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2) translocation into the nucleus, activate heme oxygenase 1 (HO‐1), and inhibit reactive oxygen species‐induced oxidative stress. LCA also works to reverse the decrease in I‐kappa‐B‐alpha (IкBα) levels caused by RSV, which in turn inhibits inflammation through the associated nuclear factor kappa B and tumor necrosis factor‐α signaling pathways. The combined action of the two cross‐talking pathways protects hosts from RSV‐induced damage. To conclude, our study is the first of its kind to establish evidence of LCA as a viable treatment for RSV infection.
Establishment of novel immortalized middle ear cell lines as models for otitis media
Authors: Blaine‐Sauer Simon , Samuels Tina L. , Khampang Pawjai , Yan Ke , McCormick Michael E. , Chun Robert H. , Harvey Steven A. , Friedland David R. , Johnston Nikki , Kerschner Joseph E.
Published: August 2023

Objective

Otitis media (OM) is among the most frequently diagnosed pediatric diseases in the US. Despite the significant public health burden of OM and the contribution research in culture models has made to understanding its pathobiology, a singular immortalized human middle ear epithelial (MEE) cell line exists (HMEEC‐1, adult‐derived). We previously developed MEE cultures from pediatric patients with non‐inflamed MEE (PCI), recurrent OM (ROM), or OM with effusion (OME) and demonstrated differences in their baseline inflammatory cytokine expression and response to stimulation with an OM‐relevant pathogen lysate and cytokines. Herein, we sought to immortalize these cultures and assess retention of their phenotypes.

Methods

MEE cultures were immortalized via lentivirus encoding temperature‐sensitive SV40 T antigen. Immortalized MEE lines and HMEEC‐1 grown in monolayer were stimulated with non‐typeable Haemophilus influenzae (NTHi) lysate. Gene expression (TNFA, IL1B, IL6, IL8, MUC5AC, and MUC5B) was assessed by qPCR.

Results

Similar to parental cultures, baseline cytokine expressions were higher in pediatric OM lines than in HMEEC‐1 and PCI, and HMEEC‐1 cells were less responsive to stimulation than pediatric lines.

Conclusion

Immortalized MEE lines retained the inflammatory expression and responsiveness of their tissues of origin and differences between non‐OM versus OM and pediatric versus adult cultures, supporting their value as novel in vitro culture models for OM.
Cavity Optomechanical Bistability with an Ultrahigh Reflectivity Photonic Crystal Membrane
Authors: Zhou Feng , Bao Yiliang , Gorman Jason J. , Lawall John R.
Published: August 2023

Photonic crystal (PhC) membranes patterned with sub‐wavelength periods offer a unique combination of high reflectivity, low mass, and high mechanical quality factor. Using a PhC membrane as one mirror of a Fabry–Perot cavity, a finesse as high as is demonstrated, corresponding to a record high PhC reflectivity of and an optical quality factor of . The fundamental mechanical frequency is 426 kHz, more than twice the optical linewidth, placing it firmly in the resolved‐sideband regime required for ground‐state optical cooling. The mechanical quality factor in vacuum is , allowing values of the single‐photon cooperativity as high as . Optomechanical bistability is easily observed as hysteresis in the cavity transmission. As the input power is raised well beyond the bistability threshold, dynamical backaction induces strong mechanical oscillation above 1 MHz, even in the presence of air damping. This platform will facilitate advances in optomechanics, precision sensing, and applications of optomechanically‐induced bistability.
Association of joint hypermobility with range of cervical motion and its impact on the motor unit loss in patients with Hirayama disease
Authors: Chen Kaiwen , Yang Yang , Zhu Dongqing , Zhu Yu , Lyu Feizhou , Jiang Jianyuan , Xia Xinlei , Zheng Chaojun
Published: August 2023

Introduction/Aims

Some patients with Hirayama disease (HD) may have generalized joint hypermobility (GJH), which may excessively increase cervical range of motion (ROM) and then worsen the HD. The purpose of this study was to identify the frequency of GJH in HD patients and to analyze the effect of GJH on cervical ROM and the severity of HD.

Methods

The Beighton scoring system (≥4) was used to diagnose GJH in 84 HD patients. All patients underwent assessments of cervical‐flexion/extension ROM; motor unit number estimation in bilateral abductor pollicis brevis (APB) muscles; handgrip strength; and the disabilities of the arm, shoulder, and hand assessments.

Results

Concomitant GJH was identified in 20 (23.8%) HD patients. The HD patients with GJH exhibited greater cervical‐flexion (P < .001) and cervical‐extension (P = .033) ROM than those without GJH. Both greater single motor unit potential amplitudes (symptomatic side: P = .005; less‐symptomatic side: P = .011) and lower motor unit numbers (symptomatic side: P = .008; less‐symptomatic side: P = .013) in bilateral APB, along with lower compound muscle action potential amplitudes on the symptomatic‐side APB (P = .039), were observed in patients with GJH than those without GJH. There was a mild negative correlation between motor unit number and cervical‐flexion ROM in HD patients (symptomatic side: r = −0.239, P = .028; less‐symptomatic side: r = −0.242, P = .027).

Discussion

The frequency of GJH in HD patients may be higher than in the general population. Importantly, GJH may exacerbate excessive cervical‐flexion ROM, thereby worsening motor unit loss in HD patients. A cautious approach should be taken when treating HD due to possible comorbid GJH.
Late‐onset facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy type 1 in previously undiagnosed families: Presenting clinical features in an often‐misdiagnosed disorder
Authors: Felice Kevin J. , Whitaker Charles H.
Published: August 2023

Introduction/Aims

In our experience, patients with late‐onset facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy type 1 (FSHD1) are frequently misdiagnosed, some for many years. The aim of this report is to document this clinical experience including the presenting symptoms and misdiagnoses and to discuss the challenges in diagnosing patients with late‐onset FSHD1.

Methods

We performed a retrospective medical record review and recorded clinical data on patients with a genetically confirmed diagnosis of FSHD1, who began to have symptoms at 50 years of age or older, and either had no family history of FSHD1 or had a history of an undiagnosed weakness in a family member.

Results

Thirteen patients, 7 men and 6 women, met the study inclusion criteria. Age of onset ranged from 52 to 74 (mean, 59.8) years, age of diagnosis ranged from 54 to 80 (mean, 66.5) years, and duration of symptoms from onset to diagnosis was 1 to 15 (mean, 6.7) years. Prior diagnoses included lumbosacral polyradiculopathy in five (38%); statin‐related myopathy in two (15%); and one each of polymyositis, inclusion‐body myositis, distal myopathy, limb‐girdle muscular dystrophy, unspecific myopathy, and unspecified scapular winging. For eight patients (62%), family history was suspected in deceased members or if by confirmed DNA test postdiagnosis.

Discussion

The diagnosis of late‐onset FSHD1 is often delayed by many years with patients frequently receiving misdiagnoses. FSHD1 may not be considered in the differential diagnosis of late‐onset weakness due to its rarity and because its clinical features are subtler, nonspecific, and mimic other neuromuscular disorders.
The impact of clean intermittent catheterization on students and families in the school environment
Authors: Bauer Stuart B. , Choung Kennary , Sable Paige , Dykeman Blair S. , Venna Alyssia , Shanahan Meghan , Sexton Katherine E. , Price Diane E. , Hayes Lillian C. , Tham Regina L. , Christensen Sinead , Sullivan Kristen
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Clean intermittent catheterization (CIC) is often used for bladder emptying in children with lower urinary tract dysfunction. Until recently, the emphasis in assessing the effects of CIC has been on preserving kidney function, reducing urinary tract infection, and achieving urinary continence. Few studies have investigated the impact of CIC on students and families in a school setting. This study sought to examine what students and caregivers experienced when CIC was required during the school day and how schools adjusted to a student needing to perform it.

Materials and Methods

A phenomenological approach utilizing semistructured interviews was performed to understand the impact of CIC on students. Purposeful sampling identified eligible families. A guide was developed from expert opinion validated by a pilot sample with feedback collated into a family/provider codesigned questionnaire. Interviews emphasized the impact and challenges students faced at school. Transcripts were coded using Dedoose software with emerging themes identified and a code book was created for closed coding that led to thematic analysis.

Results

A total of 40 families (52 caregivers and children > 12 years) were interviewed. Emergent themes included: Caregivers and students felt (1) school personnel were not always aware of nor prepared regarding the implications of CIC; (2) school bathrooms were often less than ideal (e.g., location, size, cleanliness, privacy, and availability); and (3) student participation in extracurricular activities was challenging.

Conclusions

This study identifies potential areas of intervention in meeting the needs of students who require CIC and the importance of having collaborative efforts of caregivers, health care providers, and school personnel in addressing and meeting CIC needs. Care coordination that involves consistent communication and careful planning between health care teams, school personnel, students, and caregivers can optimize a student's educational experience.
Epoxy composites integrated with functionalized wet‐milled graphitic nanoparticles: Featuring enhanced mechanical performance and in‐plane fracture resistance
Authors: Borah Lakshi Nandan , Halder Sudipta , Choudhury Pannalal
Published: August 2023

Composites made of epoxy‐based systems are popular in many engineering applications because of their enhanced mechanical performance, fatigue properties, and other physical and thermal properties, but their low fracture toughness can limit their usefulness in high‐performance structural applications. This study aims to enhance the fracture properties of epoxy‐based composites by adding cost‐effective ball‐milled graphitic nanoparticles. Herein, dry ball milling for 15 and 48 h is done to produce ball‐milled graphite (BMG) nanoparticles. A significant reduction in particle size is achieved after 15 h of dry milling. Interestingly, a similar reduction in particle size is achieved for BMG (~258 nm) when wet ball milling for 3 h is performed. These BMGs were silanized (SBMG@3) and incorporated into the epoxy network. We found even at a higher loading level of SBMG@3, the resulting nanocomposites exhibited a significant improvement in fracture toughness (~2.47 MPa m1/2) and energy (~1.55 kJ/m2). This improvement was attributed to the upliftment of the in‐plane crack propagation resistance of the nanocomposites primarily offered by SBMG@3 due to coagulated interfacial interaction with the epoxy network that effectively hindered the propagation of the crack by providing numerous sites for energy dissipation, leading to improved fracture toughness. Our results demonstrate that SBMG@3 has great potential for improving the fracture toughness and energy of epoxy‐based composites, making them suitable for various industrial applications.

Highlights

Synthesized cost‐effective 2D carbon nanofillers via high‐energy ball milling.

To overcome the re‐agglomeration effect wet ball milling is performed.

Transformation of natural graphite to BMG with sizes of ~258 nm.

KIC and GIC improve to ~2.47 MPa m1/2 and 1.55 kJ/m2, respectively, for ECSB1.

FS and FM of the epoxy nanocomposites enhanced by ~43.69% and ~51.64%.
SMARCC1 is a susceptibility gene for congenital hydrocephalus with an autosomal dominant inheritance mode and incomplete penetrance
Authors: Hourvitz Noa , Kurolap Alina , Mory Adi , Haratz Karina Krajden , Kidron Dvora , Malinger Gustavo , Baris Feldman Hagit , Yaron Yuval
Published: August 2023

A Jewish couple of mixed origin was referred for genetic counseling following termination of pregnancy at 18 weeks of gestation due to severe ventriculomegaly with aqueduct stenosis. Trio exome sequencing revealed a loss‐of‐function heterozygous variant in the SMARCC1 gene inherited from an unaffected mother. The SMARCC1 gene is associated with embryonic neurodevelopmental processes. Recent studies have linked perturbations of the gene with autosomal dominant congenital hydrocephalus, albeit with reduced penetrance. However, these studies were not referenced in the SMARCC1 OMIM record (*601732) and the gene was not considered, at the time, an OMIM morbid gene. Following our case and appeal, SMARCC1 is now considered a susceptibility gene for hydrocephalus. This allowed us to reclassify the variant as likely pathogenic and empowered the couple to make informed reproductive choices.
The impact of intervention modality on students' multiplication fact fluency
Authors: Kromminga Kourtney R. , Codding Robin S.
Published: August 2023

While an abundance of evidence‐based mathematics interventions are available to support students’ mathematics fluency, research suggests that they are not often implemented within schools. Moreover, national data suggests that most students in the United States are not meeting grade level expectations in mathematics. This underperformance coupled with limited implementation of evidence‐based practices emphasizes the need to provide schools with effective, efficient, and resource friendly interventions to support students’ mathematics achievement. The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of reciprocal peer tutoring, iPad delivered flashcards, and a combined intervention condition on the multiplication fluency of 72 third grade students enrolled in two public schools in the midwestern region of the United States using a randomized pretest–posttest design. Students received 10 min of intervention after their core instruction 4 days per week for 5 weeks. Results suggest that there were few differences between treatment groups on both proximal and distal measures. Moreover, all groups demonstrated significant growth from pre‐ to posttest on proximal measures. Assessment response rates across modalities and student engagement are discussed along with implications for research and practice.
Sources of error in detonation calorimeters and error analysis for neat 2,4,6‐triamino‐1,3,5‐ trinitrobenzene (TATB)
Authors: Sheehe Suzanne , Montgomery Jennifer , Cervantes Octavio
Published: August 2023

A calorimeter for measuring heats of detonation at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory is described. A calibration precision of 0.2 % at the 95 % confidence interval (CI) is reported. Sources of uncertainty are discussed, including nonequivalent sources, which are those arising from differences between calibration and experimental tests. The systematic error due to nonequivalent sources is bounded to 0.19–0.22 % of the measured heat for a standard detonation test where the confinement material is gold. The recommendation is to correct for the systematic error by adding 0.19 % to the reported value and adding 0.03 % to the uncertainty. It is demonstrated that the precision of a detonation test is variable with testing duration because a source of uncertainty resides in the thermodynamic correction factor k6, which accounts for the contribution to heat by stirring; the generated power is additive and therefore highly impacted by total test time. The relative proportion also varies with the magnitude of heat release and sample size, adding variance to the weight of the error arising from the correction factor. A full error analysis based on the described sources of uncertainty is developed. The methodology is applied to a test series on neat 2,4,6‐triamino‐1,3,5‐ trinitrobenzene (TATB), demonstrating an ultimate precision of 0.7 % (single test) for materials testing and a relative standard deviation of 1.8 %.
RNA tertiary structure modeling with BRiQ potential in CASP15
Authors: Chen Ke , Zhou Yaoqi , Wang Sheng , Xiong Peng
Published: August 2023

We describe the modeling method for RNA tertiary structures employed by team AIchemy_RNA2 in the 15th Critical Assessment of Structure Prediction (CASP15). The method consists of the following steps. Firstly, secondary structure information was derived from various manually‐verified sources. With this information, the full length RNA was fragmented into structural modules. The structures of each module were predicted and then assembled into the full structure. To reduce the searching conformational space, an RNA structure was organized into an optimal base folding tree. And to further improve the sampling efficiency, the energy surface was smoothed at high temperatures during the Monte Carlo sampling to make it easier to move across the energy barrier. The statistical potential energy function BRiQ was employed during Monte Carlo energy optimization.
‘I chose to stay for a while’: Aspirations and capabilities in the nonmigration decision making of nurses in the Philippines
Authors: Gotehus Aslaug
Published: August 2023

Focusing on Filipino nurses, who are situated in a culture of migration where nursing is seen to pave way for overseas migration, this article explores the (non)migration decision‐making process and the temporal and agentic dimensions of the decision to stay. While regimes of mobility may restrict or enable cross‐border movements through immigration regulations, this article focuses on ongoing processes within the Philippines such as labour market development, family relations and individual considerations. The analysis shows how important events, as well as anticipated events, in aspiring migrants' life cycles impact on their decisions and aspirations. Changes in the local labour market, such as the proliferation of call centres, have provided new opportunities for socioeconomic mobility within the Philippines. This article demonstrates how nonmigration of skilled workers is a complex and multilayered phenomenon. While staying has long been seen as a passive and natural situation, this article, in line with an emerging literature, acknowledges that staying requires agency. Further, nonmigration has an inherent temporal dimension as migration aspirations may change over time.
Microcomputed tomography visualization and quantitation of the pulmonary arterial microvascular tree in mouse models of chronic lung disease
Authors: Schneider Ben , Kopf Katrina W. , Mason Emma , Dawson Maggie , Coronado Escobar David , Majka Susan M.
Published: August 2023

Pulmonary vascular dysfunction is characterized by remodeling and loss of microvessels in the lung and is a major manifestation of chronic lung diseases (CLD). In murine models of CLD, the small arterioles and capillaries are the first and most prevalent vessels that are affected by pruning and remodeling. Thus, visualization of the pulmonary arterial vasculature in three dimensions is essential to define pruning and remodeling both temporally and spatially and its role in the pathogenesis of CLD, aging, and tissue repair. To this end, we have developed a novel method to visualize and quantitate the murine pulmonary arterial circulation using microcomputed tomography (µCT) imaging. Using this perfusion technique, we can quantitate microvessels to approximately 6 µM in diameter. We hypothesize that bleomycin‐induced injury would have a significant impact on the arterial vascular structure. As proof of principle, we demonstrated that as a result of bleomycin‐induced injury at peak fibrosis, significant alterations in arterial vessel structure were visible in the three‐dimensional models as well as quantification. Thus, we have successfully developed a perfusion methodology and complementary analysis techniques, which allows for the reconstruction, visualization, and quantitation of the mouse pulmonary arterial microvasculature in three‐dimensions. This tool will further support the examination and understanding of angiogenesis during the development of CLD as well as repair following injury.
The reification of identity narratives in teacher–student discourse during an inquiry project
Authors: Garah Lulu , Kapon Shulamit
Published: August 2023

We present a year‐long case study that documents the interactions between a teacher–research–mentor (TRM) and two 11th grade students working in their school laboratory on an extended inquiry project that is part of reformed mandatory requirements for advanced‐level matriculation in physics. Both the students (females) and the TRM (male) are Arab citizens of Israel, and the school is a public Arab school in Israel. Data were collected through videotaped participant observation of authentic working sessions and interviews with the TRM and the students. The analysis combines an ethnographic account with discourse analysis informed by a sociolinguistic approach that aims to answer the following research questions: (1) how are a teacher's identity‐narratives reified in teacher–student discourse in authentic sessions of mentoring students' inquiry? (2) how do they shape students' learning? and (3) how do they emerge from social–historical contexts? The findings problematize the challenges involved in engaging students from nondominant communities in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics learning. The analysis articulates the complexity of this challenge by showing how teachers' identity narratives shape the social construction of student–teacher discourse, generate tensions that undermine successful implementations of reformed learning experiences, and how this vicious cycle is profoundly influenced by the embedding social and historical contexts. The implications for research and practice are discussed.