bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Calibration‐free whole‐brain CEST imaging at 7T with parallel transmit pulse design for saturation homogeneity utilizing universal pulses (PUSHUP)
Authors: Völzke Yannik , Akbey Suzan , Löwen Daniel , Pracht Eberhard Daniel , Stirnberg Rüdiger , Gras Vincent , Boulant Nicolas , Zaiss Moritz , Stöcker Tony
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST) measurements at ultra‐high field (UHF) suffer from strong saturation inhomogeneity. Retrospective correction of this inhomogeneity is possible to some extent, but requires a time‐consuming repetition of the measurement. Here, we propose a calibration‐free parallel transmit (pTx)‐based saturation scheme that homogenizes the saturation over the imaging volume, which we call PUlse design for Saturation Homogeneity utilizing Universal Pulses (PUSHUP).

Theory

Magnetization transfer effects depend on the saturation . PUSHUP homogenizes the saturation by using multiple saturation pulses with alternating ‐shims. Using a database of maps, universal pulses are calculated that remove the necessity of time‐consuming, subject‐based pulse calculation during the measurement.

Methods

PUSHUP was combined with a whole‐brain three‐dimensional‐echo planar imaging (3D‐EPI) readout. Two PUSHUP saturation modules were calculated by either applying whole‐brain or cerebellum masks to the database maps. The saturation homogeneity and the group mean CEST amplitudes were calculated for different ‐correction methods and were compared to circular polarized (CP) saturation in five healthy volunteers using an eight‐channel transmit coil at 7 Tesla.

Results

In contrast to CP saturation, where accurate CEST maps were impossible to obtain in the cerebellum, even with extensive ‐correction, PUSHUP CEST maps were artifact‐free throughout the whole brain. A 1‐point retrospective ‐correction, that does not need repeated measurements, sufficiently removed the effect of residual saturation inhomogeneity.

Conclusion

The presented method allows for homogeneous whole‐brain CEST imaging at 7 Tesla without the need of a repetition‐based ‐correction or online pulse calculation. With the fast 3D‐EPI readout, whole‐brain CEST imaging with 45 saturation offsets is possible at 1.6 mm resolution in under 4 min.
Mesh‐ and model adaptivity for NTFA and full‐field elasto‐plastic homogenization based on downwind and upwind approximations
Authors: Tchomgue Simeu Arnold , Mahnken Rolf
Published: September 2024

To increase the quality of computational results for heterogeneous materials like fiber‐reinforced composites with Prandtl–Reuss‐type material laws, goal‐oriented measures of the adaptive finite element method coupled to model adaptivity is established. The former is an adaptive mesh refinement on the macroscale, which allows to control the spatial discretization errors. The latter is an efficient combination of a numerically low cost nonuniform transformation field analysis (NTFA) and numerically high cost full‐field elasto‐plastic homogenization methods on the microscale. The present contribution deals with the application of the concept of downwind and upwind approximations to a goal‐oriented a posteriori error estimator based on duality techniques by means of reduced order homogenization schemes like NTFA, and with accuracy and numerical efficiency of the proposed goal‐oriented adaptive framework. NTFA consists of an offline phase and an online phase. During the offline phase, some relevant information of the micro system under consideration is precomputed allowing a reduced set of equations to be solved in the online phase. Thus, NTFA leads to a quite efficient homogenization method but less accurate compared to the full‐field homogenization method which is characterized with a high computational demand for accounting nonlinear microstructural mechanisms. Due to nonlinearities and time‐dependency of plasticity, the estimation of error transport and error generation are obtained with a backward‐in‐time dual method despite a high demand on memory capacity. In this contribution, the dual problem is solved with a forward‐in‐time dual method that allows estimating the full error during the resolution of the primal problem without the need for extra memory capacity. Several numerical examples illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed adaptive approach based on downwind and upwind approximations.
Performance analysis of the free surface lattice Boltzmann implementation in waLBerla
Authors: Plewinski Jonas , Alt Christoph , Köstler Harald , Rüde Ulrich
Published: September 2024

The free‐surface lattice Boltzmann method uses a volume of fluid approach to simulate immiscible two‐fluid flow problems. It divides the simulation domain into three distinct phases—gas, fluid, and interface—where computation within the gas phase is disregarded. The interface delineates a one‐cell‐thick layer between the first two phases, validated physically for implementation in the HPC C++ multiphysics framework waLBerla but lacking an exhaustive performance analysis. This paper aims to shed light on node‐level performance on different architectures, employing continuous benchmarking, showing and analyzing weak scaling results on a modern HPC cluster, the Fritz supercomputer, and reporting energy consumption for the current implementation.
Characterizing medical decision‐making in sickle cell disease during childhood: Qualitative perspectives of caregivers
Authors: Blakey Ariel O. , Amaro Christina M. , Eilenberg Jenna Sandler , Brochier Annelise , Kavanagh Patricia L. , Garg Arvin , Drainoni Mari‐Lynn , Long Kristin
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is the most common genetic disorder among children. As the most common type of SCD, sickle cell anemia (SCA) is associated with severe complications across the lifespan. As parents/caregivers hold primary disease management responsibility during childhood, their involvement in disease management activities, including medical decision‐making, is critical to successful and timely management of pediatric SCD. However, the processes through which caregivers make SCD‐related decisions remain unknown. The current paper examined caregivers’ decision‐making processes and priorities when managing their child's SCD.

Methods

Parents and primary caregivers (N = 27) of children with SCA (ages 0–12) completed individual semi‐structured qualitative interviews exploring links between caregivers’ decision‐making and both daily and ongoing SCA management practices. Data were transcribed verbatim, cleaned, systematically coded, and analyzed using applied thematic analysis.

Results

Participating caregivers were primarily Black or African American (88.9%), mothers (81.5%), publicly insured (55.6%), and single (51.9%). Caregivers described medical decision‐making across acute symptom response, preventive disease management, and treatment initiation and/or discontinuation. Across these contexts of disease management, caregivers overarchingly prioritized protecting and improving their child's quality of life. Caregivers’ medical decision‐making processes were influenced by their SCA management experience, acquisition of SCA knowledge, and trust in medical providers. The extent to which these influences impacted caregivers’ decision‐making varied based on disease severity, disease management experience, and time since diagnosis.

Discussion

Findings highlight how processes underlying caregivers’ decision‐making are directly influenced and informed by caregivers’ lived experiences. Future work should develop provider‐initiated collaborative interventions to support medical decision‐making.
A systematic review of interventions for neurocognitive dysfunctions in patients and survivors of a pediatric brain tumor
Authors: Bullens Kristien , Sleurs Charlotte , Blommaert Jeroen , Lemiere Jurgen , Jacobs Sandra
Published: September 2024

Due to a high burden of neurocognitive impairment on patients with a pediatric brain tumor, interventions mitigating these symptoms are highly needed. Currently, evidence on the efficacy and feasibility of such interventions remains scarce. A systematic literature study was performed based on four different databases (PubMed, Web of Science Core Collection, Embase, and PsycArticles). Resulting articles (n = 2232) were screened based on title and abstract, and full text. We included 28 articles, investigating cognitive effects of either a lifestyle intervention (n = 6), a cognitive training (n = 15), or pharmacological intervention (n = 7). The most frequently studied interventions were the Cogmed and methylphenidate. Most interventions showed short‐term efficacy. Fewer interventions also showed long‐term maintenance of positive results. Despite positive trends of these interventions, results are heterogeneous, suggesting relatively limited efficacy of existing interventions and more potential of more individualized as well as multimodal approaches for future interventions.
Influence of montmorillonite and attapulgite clays on the production of polyamide 6 membranes via hot‐press fusion method
Authors: Campos Aline de Almeida , Dias Rafael Agra , Araujo Bruna Aline , dos Santos Filho Edson Antônio , Moreira Francys Kley Vieira , Marini Juliano , Beatrice Cesar Augusto Gonçalves , Medeiros Vanessa da Nóbrega , Pessan Luiz Antonio , Araújo Edcleide Maria
Published: September 2024

The membrane separation process represents an advance in this area, and the use of nanocomposites enables their improvement. Polyamide 6 (PA6) membranes were produced with attapulgite (ATP) and montmorillonite (MMT) clays by melting through the hot pressing of thin films. Subsequently, the membranes were characterized by thermogravimetry (TGA), showing a significant mass loss at 330°C. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) revealed that the clay increased thermal stability. X‐ray diffraction (XRD) was performed, confirming the presence of characteristic peaks of polyamide 6, and with the introduction of clay, there were changes in the shapes. Contact angle measurements showed that the clays increased the hydrophilicity of the membranes. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) revealed that the presence of clays modified the surface roughness. The tensile test showed that the clays decreased the strength of the nanocomposites. Oxygen permeation confirmed a decrease in the permeability of compositions containing clay compared with pure PA6 membranes. Studies aimed at understanding the interaction of gases with the membrane material represent a small part of research on the selective barrier. This work aimed to obtain flat membranes from polyamide 6/clay nanocomposites to separate gaseous mixtures using the thin film hot‐press fusion method.

Highlights

PA6 membranes were produced with ATP and MMT clays via hot pressing of thin films.

Introduction of clay enhances thermal stability in PA6 membranes and reduce gas permeability.

ATP clay increases membrane stiffness; MMT decreases strength.

Membranes with PA6 and clays exhibit good water vapor selectivity.
Measurement invariance of scores on the Teacher Stress Scale: international sample of PreK‐12 teachers
Authors: Wang Jiayi , Kalkbrenner Michael T. , Schaner Riley
Published: September 2024

Teaching is a stressful profession with a high turnover rate. Schools and related institutions need to take more action to support teachers and keep teacher stress at a manageable level. The continued research and practical effort require measures to examine teachers’ stress in a briefer and accurate manner. The Teacher Stress Scale is a recently developed brief measure to examine teacher stress with promising psychometric characteristics. The present study aims to further validate TSS scores with a large sample of teachers ranging from pre‐kindergarten to the 12th grade from the United States and United Kingdom. Findings of the internal structure validity, convergent validity, and the internal consistency reliability of TSS scores were examined. Specifically, the confirmatory factor analysis of the unidimensional model and the two‐dimensional model showed poor fit, but the bi‐factor model evidenced a strong fit. Factorial invariance testing yielded strong invariance between early education and secondary education teachers as well as satisfactory invariance between teachers from the United States and the United Kingdoms. The Inadequate School‐Based Support TSS subscale demonstrated convergent validity with other support measures, and the overall TSS showed acceptable internal consistency reliability evidence of scores. Limitations and implications of the TSS, as well as future research directions were discussed.
Linking effort‐reward imbalance to academic burnout among high school students: The roles of school connectedness and academic buoyancy
Authors: Gao Bin , Chai Xiaoyun , Shen Quanwei , Lu Jiamei , Li Li
Published: September 2024

In the context of examination‐oriented education and the pressure of college entrance examinations (known as the “Gaokao”), Chinese high school students often experience academic burnout. Previous research has shown that effort–reward imbalance (ERI) is an important predictor of academic burnout among high school students, but the underlying psychological mechanisms are not yet clear. To address this research gap, we surveyed 415 Chinese high school students (226 males and 189 females, mean age = 15.82 years, SD = 0.87), and a self‐report questionnaire including the ERI scale, school connectedness scale, academic buoyancy scale, and academic burnout scale was completed by all participants. The data were analyzed by SPSS 24.0 and the PROCESS macro and developed a moderated mediation model incorporating school connectedness and academic buoyancy. The results showed that (1) ERI was significantly and positively associated with academic burnout among high school students; (2) school connectedness partially mediated the relationship between ERI and academic burnout; (3) academic buoyancy moderated the link between ERI and school connectedness, as well as between ERI and academic burnout. These findings are not only valuable for understanding the underlying mechanisms linking ERI and academic burnout but also contribute to the development of intervention programs (e.g., interventions based on academic buoyancy) aiming at reducing high school students' academic burnout.
Pathological C‐terminal phosphomimetic substitutions alter the mechanism of liquid–liquid phase separation of TDP‐43 low complexity domain
Authors: Haider Raza , Shipley Brandon , Surewicz Krystyna , Hinczewski Michael , Surewicz Witold K.
Published: September 2024

C‐terminally phosphorylated TAR DNA‐binding protein of 43 kDa (TDP‐43) marks the proteinaceous inclusions that characterize a number of age‐related neurodegenerative diseases, including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, frontotemporal lobar degeneration and Alzheimer's disease. TDP‐43 phosphorylation at S403/S404 and (especially) at S409/S410 is, in fact, accepted as a biomarker of proteinopathy. These residues are located within the low complexity domain (LCD), which also drives the protein's liquid–liquid phase separation (LLPS). The impact of phosphorylation at these LCD sites on phase separation of the protein is a topic of great interest, as these post‐translational modifications and LLPS are both implicated in proteinopathies. Here, we employed a combination of experimental and simulation‐based approaches to explore this question on a phosphomimetic model of the TDP‐43 LCD. Our turbidity and fluorescence microscopy data show that phosphomimetic Ser‐to‐Asp substitutions at residues S403, S404, S409 and S410 alter the LLPS behavior of TDP‐43 LCD. In particular, unlike the LLPS of unmodified protein, LLPS of the phosphomimetic variants displays a biphasic dependence on salt concentration. Through coarse‐grained modeling, we find that this biphasic salt dependence is derived from an altered mechanism of phase separation, in which LLPS‐driving short‐range intermolecular hydrophobic interactions are modulated by long‐range attractive electrostatic interactions. Overall, this in vitro and in silico study provides a physiochemical foundation for understanding the impact of pathologically relevant C‐terminal phosphorylation on the LLPS of TDP‐43 in a more complex cellular environment.
First‐Principles Calculations to Investigate the Structural, Mechanical, Electronic, Optical and Thermal Properties of Disilicides Materials UT2Si2 (T = Ru, Rh, and Pd)
Authors: Rahman Md. Atikur , Khatun Mst. Asma , Mia Md. Hasan , Zugrufa Mst. , Irfan Ahmad
Published: September 2024

Different physical features of UT2Si2 (T = Ru, Rh, Pd) are investigated using ab initio methods. The examined lattice parameters are closely aligned with the experimental data. The negative cohesive energy ensures the chemical stability of the UT2Si2 (T = Ru, Rh, Pd). The mechanical stability of UT2Si2 (T = Ru, Rh, Pd) is ensured from the positive elastic constants. Very large bulk and Young's moduli of URu2Si2, and URh2Si2 ensures their high resistance to volume and longitudinal deformation. Whereas the lower Young's modulus (E) for UPd2Si2 suggests its heightened capacity to resist thermal shock resistance. The high machinable index of UPd2Si2 compared to URu2Si2 and URh2Si2 confirm its more damage‐tolerant and high elastic behavior and probable industrial applications. All the phases exhibit elastic anisotropy and ductile nature. Metallic features as well as mixture of covalent and ionic bonding are observed from electronic properties. Furthermore, the investigation on optical properties suggests the potential use of UT2Si2 (T = Ru, Rh, Pd) in anti‐reflection coatings, UV detectors, and optoelectronic devices due to their notable peaks in the UV energy range. The thermodynamic parameters such as Debye temperature as well as minimum thermal conductivity indicate the potential utility of these compounds in thermal barrier coating materials.
Exploring the Therapeutic Potential of BBB‐Penetrating Phytochemicals With p38 MAPK Modulatory Activity in Addressing Oxidative Stress‐Induced Neurodegenerative Disorders, With a Focus on Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: Hosseini Asieh , Sheibani Mohammad , Valipour Mehdi
Published: September 2024

Oxidative stress plays an important role in the occurrence of neurodegenerative diseases. Previous studies indicate a strong connection between oxidative stress, inappropriate activation of the p38 MAPK signaling pathway, and the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases. Although antioxidant therapy is a valid strategy to alleviate these problems, the most important limitation of this approach is the ineffectiveness of drug administration due to the limited permeability of the BBB. Therefore, BBB‐penetrating p38 MAPK modulators with proper antioxidant capacity could be useful in preventing/reducing the complications of neurodegenerative disorders. The current manuscript aims to review the therapeutic capabilities of some recently reviewed naturally occurring p38 MAPK inhibitors in the management of neurodegenerative problems such as Alzheimer's disease. In data collection, we tried to use more recent studies published in high‐quality journals indexed in databases Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, and so on, but no specific time frame was considered due to the nature of the study. Our evaluations indicate that natural compounds tanshinones, protoberberines, pinocembrin, osthole, rhynchophylline, oxymatrine, schisandrin, piperine, paeonol, ferulic acid, 6‐gingerol, obovatol, and trolox have significant potential for use as supplements/adjuvants in the reduction of neurodegenerative‐related problems. Our findings emphasize the usefulness of BBB‐penetrating phytochemicals with p38 MAPK modulatory activity as potential therapeutic options against neurodegenerative disorders. Of course, the proper use of these compounds depends on considering their toxicity/safety profile and pharmacokinetic characteristics as well as the clinical conditions of users.
Twenty‐Years of Anti‐Climate Change and Anti‐Evolution Education Legislation in the United States
Authors: da Rosa Jennifer A.
Published: September 2024

Both evolution and climate change have broad scientific consensus, and yet they are the most contested scientific concepts in the US K‐12 education system. This study aimed to explore trends in proposed US state legislation employed from 2003 to 2023 by anti‐evolution and anti‐climate change education movements to constrain the teaching of these sciences. Using a historical qualitative research design, document analysis was used to evaluate state legislation and reports from the National Center for Science Education (NCSE). Two hundred and seventy‐three climate and evolution‐related House and Senate bills, concurrent resolutions, and joint resolutions were identified, coded, and analyzed. Eleven anti‐science education legislative tactics were employed from 2003 to 2023. Five were first identified in the literature review: academic freedom (42.1%), rebranding (12.1%), balanced treatment (12.1%), censorship (2.6%), and disclaimers (2.6%). Six new tactics were revealed in the analysis: anti‐indoctrination (16.8%), standards (12.1%), instructional materials (10.3%), religious liberty (8.8%), avoidance (4.4%), and religious instruction (4.0%). One‐quarter of bills and resolutions employed a combination of tactics. The most ubiquitous tactics were academic freedom bills, which urge science teachers to introduce ideas like intelligent design or climate change denial under the mantle of academic freedom, and anti‐indoctrination bills, which prevent teachers from advocating for controversial topics deemed political. Since 2017, anti‐indoctrination has become the preferred tactic. Southern, southeastern, and midwestern states were the most prolific in their contribution to anti‐science education legislation. Qualitative analysis revealed bill and resolution language was often recycled across years and states with slight changes to wording. From 2003 to 2023, the total number of anti‐science education state legislative efforts increased, as did the number of passed bills and resolutions. The implications of these tactics and trends are considered.
Self‐Assembly‐Derived Fluorescent N,S‐Co‐Doped Carbon Quantum Dots as Sensitive Probes for Cr2O72− Detection
Authors: Hu Qian , Cui Yuxin , Xu Hao , Wang Qiguan , Wang Jin , Wang Sumin
Published: September 2024

Rapid, sensitive, and accurate detection of Cr2O72− in the environment is of great significance. This article synthesized water‐soluble N and S‐doped carbon quantum dots (N,S‐CQDs) using a simple hydrothermal self‐assembly pathway through hydrogen bonding of melamine and trithiocyanuric acid. N,S‐CQDs show green fluorescence under visible light excitation at 420 nm, with a high fluorescence quantum yield of 33.4%. Under photo‐induced electron transfer, significant fluorescence dynamic quenching occurred in N,S‐CQDs when a solution containing Cr2O72− was added. Based on this specific response, the selective and sensitive probe for Cr2O72− is achieved, with a wide detection concentration of up to 33 µm. The limits of detection can be as low as 0.11 µm. This work provides an easy‐prepared N,S‐CQDs for sensitive detecting of Cr2O72− in the environment.
Laser Irradiation Induced Electronic Structure Modulation of the Palladium‐Based Nanosheets for Efficient Electrocatalysts
Authors: Zhu Liye , Zhao Yan , Zhai Tianrui , Yan Yinzhou , Jiang Yijian , Zhang Huanzhen , Zhang Ran , Gan Yuqi , Zhang Pengju , Zhou Kailing , Wu Shengbo , Tian Chenhe , Jiang Nan , Liu Peng
Published: September 2024

Palladium nanosheets (Pd NSs) are widely used as electrocatalysts due to their high atomic utilization efficiency, and long‐term stability. Here, the electronic structure modulation of the Pd NSs is realized by a femtosecond laser irradiation strategy. Experimental results indicate that laser irradiation induces the variation in the atomic structures and the macrostrain effects in the Pd NSs. The electronic structure of Pd NSs is modulated by laser irradiation through the balancing between Au–Pd charge transfer and the macros‐strain effects. Finite element analysis (FEA) indicates that the lattice of the nanostructures undergoes fast heating and cooling during laser irradiation. The structural evolution mechanism is disclosed by a combined FEA and molecule dynamics (MD) simulation. These results coincide well with the experimental results. The L‐AuPd NSs exhibit excellent mass activity and specific activity of 7.44 A mg‐1 Pd and 18.70 mA cm−2 toward ethanol oxidation reaction (EOR), 4.3 and 4.4 times higher than the commercial Pd/C. The 2500‐cycle accelerated durability (ADT) test confirms the outstanding catalytic stability of the L‐AuPd NSs. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations reveal the catalytic mechanism. This unique strategy provides a new pathway to design the ultrathin nanosheet‐based materials with excellent performance.
Interfacial Self‐Assembly Nanostructures: Constructions and Applications
Authors: Li Yanyan , Liang Dingyitai , Wang Ruimin , Yang Shouzhi , Liu Wanshan , Sang Qi , Pu Jun , Wang Yuning , Qian Kun
Published: September 2024

Interfacial self‐assembly nanoarrays refer to the spontaneously organized nanostructures at interfaces, relying on the intrinsic properties of involved materials, such as surface energy, molecular structure, and interactions. In recent years, the exponential growth of self‐assembly nanotechnology has substantially expanded the utility of nanomaterials. Particularly, non‐covalent interactions‐based interfacial self‐assembly represents a viable and promising approach for the synthesis of novel nanostructure. This review introduces the significance and current development status of interfacial self‐assembly technology, focusing on the driving mode, application, and prospects of interfacial self‐assembly nanoarrays over the past few years.
Designing a Novel C3‐Fe‐N Interface Local Coordination Microenvironment for Efficient Electrocatalytic Water Splitting
Authors: Chen Kai , Yadav Sunny , Cao Yong‐Hua , Dao Vandung , Li Yan , Uthirakumar Periyayya , Chen Jiangtao , Zhao Yun , Lee In‐Hwan
Published: September 2024

Developing single‐atomic electrocatalysts (SACs) with high activity and stability for electrocatalytic water‐splitting has been challenging. Moreover, the practical utilization of SACs is still far from meeting the the theoretical prediction. Herein a facile and easy scale‐up fabrication method is proposed for designing a novel carbon‐iron‐nitrogen (C‐Fe‐N) electrocatalyst with a single atom electron bridge (C‐Fe‐N SAEBs), which exhibits lower overpotential and impedance than previously reported electrocatalysts. 0.8‐C‐Fe‐N SAEBs exhibits significant activity and excellent stability in the bi‐functional decomposition of water. The excellent performance of the C‐Fe‐N SAEBs electrocatalyst can be attributed to the strong coupling effect at the interface owing to the formation of a single atom C3‐Fe‐N local coordination microenvironment at the interface, which enhance the exposure of active sites and charge transfer, and reduced the adsorption energy barrier of intermediates. Theoretical calculation and synchrotron radiation analysis are performed to understand the mechanistic insights behind the experimental results. The results reveal that the active C3‐Fe‐N local coordination microenvironment at the interface not only improves water‐splitting behavior but also provides a deeper understanding of local‐interface geometry/electronic structure for improving the electrocatalytic activity. Thus, the proposed electrocatalyst, as well as the mechanistic insights into its properties, presents a significant stride toward practical application.
Multi‐Organ Microphysiological Systems Targeting Specific Organs for Recapitulating Disease Phenotypes via Organ Crosstalk
Authors: Kim Joeng Ju , Bae Mihyeon , Cho Dong‐Woo
Published: September 2024

Various systemic metabolic diseases arise from prolonged crosstalk across multiple organs, triggering serious impairments in various physiological systems. These diseases are intricate systemic pathologies characterized by complex mechanisms and an unclear etiology, making the treatment challenging. Efforts have been made to develop in vitro models to understand these diseases and devise new treatments. However, there are limitations in reconstructing the causal relationships between diseases and interorgan crosstalk, including the tissue‐specific microenvironment. Alternatively, multi‐organ microphysiological systems (MOMPS) present new possibilities for capturing the complexity of systemic metabolic diseases by replicating human microphysiology and simulating diverse interorgan crosstalk. Controlled interactions and scalable representations of biological complexity in MOMPS offer a more accurate portrayal of organ interactions, enabling the identification of novel relationships between organ crosstalk, metabolism, and immunity. This, in turn, can yield valuable insights into disease mechanisms and drug development research and enhance the efficiency of preclinical studies. In this review, the examples and technical capabilities of MOMPS pathological modeling for various diseases are discussed, leveraging state‐of‐the‐art biofabrication technology of MOMPS. It evaluates the current opportunities and challenges in this field.
Fur farms: a ‘transmission hub’ for zoonotic viruses
Authors: Mills Georgina
Published: September 2024

Georgina Mills discusses a recent study that assessed potentially zoonotic viruses circulating in fur farms in China.
Self‐help book for dog owners that is ‘a great read for vets and vet nurses, too’
Authors: Fogle Bruce
Published: September 2024

Reviewed by Bruce Fogle, a clinical veterinarian working in central London and an author.
Edwyn Tudor Buick
Authors: Walmsley John
Published: September 2024

A quintessential country vet with extraordinary compassion, knowledge and sense of adventure.
You can travel AND have a career as a practice partner. And don't forget being a mum too!
Authors: Bowen Laura
Published: September 2024

Embracing whatever was thrown her way, Laura Bowen proved that a successful career and travel were good partners; not stopping there she sold the practice and went on to win the Clipper Round the World yacht race.
Analysis of the financial situation of the maximum budgets of the Health‐Promoting Entities in Colombia
Authors: Espinosa Oscar , Rodríguez Jhonathan , Arias Martha‐Liliana , Pinzón Daniel , Valdez Emiliano A.
Published: September 2024

Using a financial‐actuarial approach, a formal methodological proposal is presented, using to estimate the loss ratio of the maximum budgets, an ex‐ante financing mechanism for the health promoting entities (HPEs) of the contributory, and subsidized schemes of the General System of Social Security in Health in Colombia. Using public information from the financial statements of the HPEs, available on the website of the National Health Superintendency, the loss ratios for the years 2020 and 2021 were calculated. The results showed values above 150% for more than 40% of the HPEs analyzed. This generates a financial sustainability alert for the health sector regarding this specific mechanism. To ensure the efficiency of spending and guarantee the fundamental right to health of all inhabitants of the Colombian territory, it is proposed to invest more in the assessment of health technologies, use the cost‐effectiveness threshold already estimated for Colombia, establish clinical guidelines for health technologies not included in the Capitation Payment Unit, and update the health benefit plan in a systematic, participatory, and clear manner for all strategic actors.
Hydromagnetic flow of Casson fluid over a stretching plane through porous medium
Authors: Maurya Deepak K. , Deo Satya , Maurya Pankaj Kumar
Published: September 2024

The current investigation concentrates on the magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) effects of a steady Casson fluid flowing over a stretching sheet in the porous medium. A mathematical model for Casson fluid is developed in order to investigate the characteristics of non‐Newtonian fluid. The governing higher order nonlinear partial differential equations (PDEs) are transformed into ordinary differential equations (ODEs) using similarity transformation. The appropriate boundary conditions have been applied to generate analytical expressions of flow characteristics such as velocity and skin friction coefficient. Results are reported on specific cases of fluid velocity (horizontal/transversal) and skin friction coefficient. The skin friction coefficient, and the fluid flow characteristics, i.e., velocity profiles, are sketched for various values of the flow parameters, such as the Casson parameter, suction velocity, conductivity, and permeability parameter and analyzed. The velocity components are a decreasing function of the Casson parameter and electrical conductivity, whereas, the skin friction coefficient is an increasing function of permeability parameter. Deduced results validate the existing results.
A recurrent neural network approach for magneto‐hydro‐dynamic flow of second‐grade fluid with dissipation effect
Authors: Urooj Aamra , Kamran Muhammad Shoaib , Raja Muhammad Asif Zahoor , Hassan Qazi Mahmood Ul , Nisar Kottakkaran Sooppy , Maria  , Shoaib Muhammad
Published: September 2024

Artificial neural networks (ANNs) with feedback loops known as recurrent neural networks (RNNs) are appropriate for handling temporal dependencies. The accuracy of the results in computational fluid dynamics (CFD) has gradually improved with the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) with CFD. This research article aims to decipher the dynamics of magneto‐hydro‐dynamic flow of second‐grade fluid with dissipation effect (MHD‐FSGF‐DE) using the Levenberg–Marquardt backpropagation (LMB) based on RNNs (LMB‐RNNs). The dataset is produced by the cutting‐edge homotopy analysis method for variation of different parameters including fluid parameter β, Marangoni parameter Ma, Hartmann number M, and Prandtl number Pr. RNNs are trained on the points of the dataset to maximize the outcome's accuracy and provide a comprehensive knowledge of the long‐term correlations between the input and output data points. The accuracy of the state‐of‐the‐art LMB‐RNNs approach is validated by performance graphs, error histograms, training estate analyses, regression plots, and input and output correlation plots. The profiles of physical properties like velocity, temperature, and concentration against β, Ma, M, and Pr are graphically shown to further highlight how these parameters affect physical properties. After 1000 iterations, the mean squared error (MSE) is 10−10 and the observed value of correlation coefficient R is 1 endorsing the worth of the LMB‐RNNs. The velocity of fluid upsurges for increasing β while declines for increasing M and Ma. The outcomes are comparable with the previously published findings. The core findings of this study have potential applications in various fields like polymer processing and cooling of electronic devices, specifically in the areas of electronic coolant system design and optimization.
Influence of inclined magnetic field and surface catalyzed reactions on a ternary hybrid nanofluid rotating flow with irreversibility analysis
Authors: Ramzan Muhammad , Akhter Hafeez , Shahmir Nazia , Alkarni Shalan , Zhang Yan , Kadry Seifedine
Published: September 2024

The goal of this research is to compute the numerical solution of the thermally stratified kerosene oil‐based ternary nanofluid flow with metallic nanoparticles including Nickel (Ni), Tantalum (Ta), and Zinc (Zn) influenced by an angled magnetic field between two parallel plates. The upper plate is assumed to be permeable and the lower is along the horizontal axis. The oxidation resistance and great thermal chemical stability of these nanoparticles make them ideal for usage in high temperature applications. This study also finds applications in chemical processing, microfluidic devices, and targeted drug delivery. In the energy equation, modified Fourier law and non‐uniform heat source‐sink are considered. The surface‐catalyzed reactions are considered with the variable diffusion coefficients. In addition, the irreversibility analysis is also performed. The flow model is supported by the slip and the thermal stratification conditions at the surface. The Tiwari and Das model is utilized to elucidate the characteristics of liquid flow, and it involves applying appropriate transformations to transmute the flow model into ordinary differential equations. These equations are computed via the bvp4c scheme. Graphs are generated to illustrate the impact of varied quantities on the flow and temperature profiles. Additionally, the surface drag coefficient and surface heat transfer rate are evaluated and summarized. It is worth mentioning that the thermal stratified and surface‐catalyzed parameters have reduced the temperature and concentration distributions respectively. The entropy generation is higher near the lower impermeable plate and lower near the upper permeable plate when the porosity parameter is enhanced. Additionally, it is noticed that 6% of the volume fraction of nanoparticles has a greater surface drag coefficient and heat transmission rate than 3% of the volume fraction of nanoparticles. This indicates that a higher volume fraction improves the surface drag and the heat transmission rate.
Codes of Conduct in Open Source
Authors: Frluckaj Hana , Howison James
Published: September 2024

Hana Frluckaj, James Howison, Qiwei Li, and Laura Dabbish
Did Gerrit’s Respectful Code Review Reminders Reduce Comment Toxicity?
Authors: Murphy-Hill Emerson , Dicker Jill , Carlson Delphine , Harbach Marian , Murillo Ambar , Zhou Tao
Published: September 2024

Emerson Murphy-Hill, Jill Dicker, Delphine Carlson, Marian Harbach, Ambar Murillo, and Tao Zhou
The Challenges of Ethnic-Racial Diversity Within the IT Sector
Authors: Miranda Michelle Borges , Prikladnicki Rafael
Published: September 2024

Michele Miranda and Rafael Prikladnicki
Breaking the Glass Floor for Women in Tech
Authors: Steinmacher Igor , Trinkenreich Bianca , Sarma Anita , Gerosa Marco
Published: September 2024

Igor Steinmacher, Bianca Trinkenreich, Marco Gerosa, and Anita Sarma
How Users Perceive the Representation of Non-binary Gender in Software Systems: An Interview Study
Authors: Hashmati Negin , Penzenstadler Birgit
Published: September 2024

Negin Hashmati and Birgit Penzenstadler
The Role of Ethics in Engineering Fair AI (and Beyond)
Authors: Johnson Brittany , Smith Justin
Published: September 2024

Brittany Johnson and Justin Smith
O(9, 25) symmetry of heterotic string theory at orders α′, α′2
Authors: Garousi Mohammad R.
Published: September 2024

Abstract

In a recent study, we have observed that by imposing a truncated T-duality transformation on the circular reduction of the bosonic couplings in the heterotic theory at four- and six-derivative orders, we can calculate these couplings in a particular YM gauge where the YM potential vanishes but its field strength remains non-zero. Importantly, the coupling constants are independent of the gauge choice, so these results are valid across different YM gauge choices.

In this work, we explore the cosmological reduction of these couplings when the YM gauge fields belong to the Cartan subalgebra of SO(32) or E8 × E8. We demonstrate that after applying appropriate one-dimensional field redefinitions and total derivative terms, the couplings can be expressed in a proposed O(9, 25)-invariant canonical form, which is the extension of the canonical O(9, 9)-invariant form for just the NS-NS fields proposed by Hohm and Zwiebach. This O(9, 25)-invariant expression is in terms of the trace of the first time derivative of the generalized metric, which encompasses both the YM field and the NS-NS fields.
Can clinical presentation predict radiologically confirmed cauda equina syndrome: retrospective case review of 530 cases at a tertiary emergency department
Authors: Wood Lianne , Dunstan Eleanor , Karouni Faris , Zlatanos Christos , Elkazaz Mohamed , Salem Khalid M.I. , D’Aquino Daniel A. , Lewis Martyn
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Cauda equina syndrome (CES) may have significant individual consequences if diagnostic delays occur. Our aim was to evaluate the presenting subjective and objective features of patients with suspected CES in comparison to those with radiologically confirmed cauda equina compression (CEC)..

Methods

This was a retrospective analysis of all cases presenting with suspected CES to a tertiary emergency care unit over a two-year period. CEC was defined as radiological confirmation of CEC by Consultant Musculoskeletal (MSK) Radiologist report (MSK-CEC) and by measured canal occupancy due to an acute disc extrusion (> 75%)[measured by a Senior Spinal Surgeon (SP-CEC)]. Routine data collection was compared between categories. Chi square, multivariate regression analyses and ROC analysis of multiple predictors was performed.

Results

530 patients were included in this analysis, 60 (11.3%) had MSK-CEC, and 470 had NO- CEC. Only 43/60 (71.7%) had emergent surgery. Those with MSK-CEC and SP-CEC were statistically more likely to present with bilateral leg pain [(MSK-CEC OR 2.6, 95%CI 1.2, 5.8; p = 0.02)(SP-CEC OR 4.7, 95%CI 1.7, 12.8; p = 0.003)]; and absent bilateral ankle reflexes [(MSK-CEC OR 4.3; 95% CI 2.0, 9.6; p < 0.001)(SP CEC OR 2.5; 95%CI 1.0, 6.19; p = 0.05)] on multivariate analysis. The ROC curve analysis acceptable diagnostic utility of having SP-CEC when both are present [Area under the curve 0.72 (95%CI 0.61, 0.83); p < 0.0001].

Conclusion

This study suggests that in those presenting with CES symptoms, the presence of both bilateral leg pain and absent ankle reflexes pose an acceptable diagnostic tool to predict a large acute disc herniation on MRI scan..
The ecological and socioeconomic sustainability of organic agroforestry: a systematic review
Authors: Aaron Willmott , Amritbir Riar , Stephane Saj , Laura Armengot , Harun Cicek , Milka Kiboi , Akanksha Singh , Ingo Grass , Marc Cotter
Published: September 2024

Organic agriculture and agroforestry are two agroecological approaches that have been proposed to address the many negative externalities of intensive agriculture.However, their comparative efficiency in promoting sustainability when combined is unclear, as they are typically studied in isolation. To address this we conducted a systematic review of comparative studies addressing organic versus conventional agroforestry and their monocultural counterparts. We conducted a content analysis resulting in an impact matrix utilizing seven broad categories encompassing ecological, socioeconomic and environmental aspects of sustainability. By analyzing these impact categories separately, it is possible to highlight the distinct advantages and issues in organic agroforestry systems over alternative systems, as well as the potential for multifunctionality. Research in organic agroforestry is strongly biased towards South American Cocoa and Coffee, but, in spite of this, evidence thus far suggests that organic agroforestry has many advantages across all categories studied and few drawbacks; the main one being yield of single crops. A large number of comparisons yielded neutral outcomes, suggesting that there are a limited set of trade-offs associated with organic agroforestry, many of which may be attenuated by altering management and market conditions. We conclude by highlighting key research areas in organic agroforestry which need to be addressed including: the differing ways of quantifying yield, staple crops and expanding the geographic range of studies.
Genetic variants and social benefit receipt in premenopausal women with breast cancer treated with docetaxel: a Danish population-based cohort study
Authors: Schmidt Julie A. , Hjorth Cathrine F. , Farkas Dóra K. , Damkier Per , Feddersen Søren , Hamilton-Dutoit Stephen , Ejlertsen Bent , Lash Timothy L. , Ahern Thomas P. , Cronin-Fenton Deirdre
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Breast cancer patients’ need for social benefits may increase following taxane-based chemotherapy, due to long-lasting side effects. Specific single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) may mediate such side effects. We investigated the association between SNPs related to taxane metabolism, transport, toxicity, or DNA and neural repair, and receipt of social benefits.

Methods

From the Danish Breast Cancer Group, we identified premenopausal women diagnosed with stage I–III breast cancer during 2007–2011 and treated with docetaxel-based chemotherapy. We genotyped 21 SNPs from archived breast tumors using TaqMan assays. We ascertained social benefit payments from 1 year before to 5 years after diagnosis, using nationwide, administrative registry data. For each week, we categorized women as receiving health-related benefits (including sick leave and disability pension), labor market-related benefits (including unemployment benefits), or as being self-supporting. We computed rate ratios (RRs) of social benefit receipt for variant carriers (heterozygotes plus homozygotes) vs. non-carriers, using negative binominal regression with robust variance estimation.

Results

Among 2430 women, 12% received health-related benefits before diagnosis, 80% at diagnosis, and ~ 24% 2 to 5 years after diagnosis. Labor market-related benefits were uncommon (3–6%). All RRs were near-null and/or imprecise.

Conclusion

We found no clinically meaningful impact of the selected SNPs on social benefit receipt among premenopausal breast cancer survivors treated with docetaxel.
The Ethics of Human Embryo Editing via CRISPR-Cas9 Technology: A Systematic Review of Ethical Arguments, Reasons, and Concerns
Authors: Wiley Lindsay , Cheek Mattison , LaFar Emily , Ma Xiaolu , Sekowski Justin , Tanguturi Nikki , Iltis Ana
Published: September 2024

The possibility of editing the genomes of human embryos has generated significant discussion and interest as a matter of science and ethics. While it holds significant promise to prevent or treat disease, research on and potential clinical applications of human embryo editing also raise ethical, regulatory, and safety concerns. This systematic review included 223 publications to identify the ethical arguments, reasons, and concerns that have been offered for and against the editing of human embryos using CRISPR-Cas9 technology. We identified six major themes: risk/harm; potential benefit; oversight; informed consent; justice, equity, and other social considerations; and eugenics. We explore these themes and provide an overview and analysis of the critical points in the current literature.