bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Beyond symptom reduction: Veterans’ goals for posttraumatic stress disorder treatment
Authors: Wells Stephanie Y. , Wilhite Emily R. , Weber Marcela C. , Blakey Shannon M. , Callaway Caroline , Kehle‐Forbes Shannon , Morland Leslie A. , Mackintosh Margaret A. , Dedert Eric , Jackson George L. , Sohn Min Ji , Grubbs Kathleen M.
Published: January 2025

Despite a varied selection of available trauma‐focused evidence‐based psychotherapies (TF‐EBPs) for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), few veterans receive a full course of an evidence‐based treatment. A better understanding of and alignment with veterans’ PTSD treatment goals could be one way to improve treatment engagement and adherence, consistent with veteran‐oriented care within the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Healthcare System. Few studies have examined veterans’ specific goals or reasons for seeking treatment for PTSD. We conducted a qualitative analysis using secondary data from a randomized controlled trial (RCT) of 175 veterans who were randomized to receive a TF‐EBP for PTSD. Veterans completed a self‐report questionnaire at baseline and were asked to identify three distinct goals for treatment using a short‐answer format. Two authors coded the data and identified themes. Three themes were identified: improvements in PTSD symptoms, personal well‐being and growth, and improvements in social roles and interpersonal functioning. These findings suggest that veterans with PTSD have both symptom reduction goals and functional goals at the outset of treatment. The findings also emphasize the importance of broadening the scope of treatment outcome monitoring and assessment to better reflect patient‐centered care and veterans’ specific goals.
Co‐Polyamide with 2‐Pyridylquinoline Moieties in the Main Chain and Its Metal‐Polymer Complex with Cu(II) for Toluene Recovery: Synthesis, Structure, Physicochemical and Transport Properties
Authors: Faykov Ilya , Pulyalina Alexandra , Gruzdeva Ekaterina , Novikov Alexander , Goikhman Mikhail , Podeshvo Irina , Loretsyan Nairi , Gofman Iosif , Abalov Ivan , Saprykina Natalia , Polotskaya Galina
Published: January 2025

Currently, recovery of organic solvents using eco‐friendly methods is one of the primary industrial tasks. Separation of liquid media by pervaporation offers more advantages as compared to conventional purification methods, such as distillation, in view of low energy and resource consumption. This work is focused on the study of novel copolyamide with 2‐pyridylquinoline‐4,7‐dicarboxylic acid moieties in the main chain and its metal‐polymer complex in the form of dense films. At present, metal‐polymer complexes are growing in importance among membranes. The analysis of mechanical and thermal properties of the films also supports their high operational characteristics. Comprehensive studies of the structure of the obtained films show that both samples have a rigid and dense structure, but the metal‐polymer complex is characterized by an increased surface roughness. The hypothesis of supramolecular association between polymers and separated liquids (methanol and toluene) is confirmed by quantum chemical calculations. Transport properties of novel polymers in pervaporation of toluene/methanol mixtures are examined and compared with the literature data. Both polymer films demonstrate an outstanding selectivity toward toluene in the separation of binary mixtures. The developed films have higher values of total flux and separation factor as compared to the most of known membranes.
Impact of Tuning the Hydrophobicity in ABA‐Type Amphiphilic Polythiourethane on the Dye Loading and Stability of Formed Polymersomes Using Pendant Aromatic Groups
Authors: Saha Supriyo , Ramesh Aparna , Samanta Trisha , Roy Raj Kumar , Biswas Susmita , Begum Naznin Ara , Ghosh Goutam , Dey Pradip
Published: January 2025

Polymersomes are polymeric vesicles composed of amphiphilic block copolymers with a hydrophilic inner lumen and a hydrophobic membrane, capable of encapsulating both hydrophilic payloads, and hydrophobic payloads. The one‐pot synthesis and self‐assembly of polyethylene‐glycol‐based amphiphilic polythiourethanes consisting of a pendant methyl or aromatic ester are reported here. During the ring opening of cyclodithiocarbonate using ethylene diamine or hexyl diamine, generated thiols are utilized to modify the backbone with methyl, benzyl, and diphenyl esters. The aromatic pendant containing P3 and P4 has higher hydrophobic dye loading than the other methyl ester containing polymers P1 and P2. All the polymers have hydrodynamic diameters in the range of 40–98 nm. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) results show that all the polymers are able to form spherical aggregates with diameters of 38.1 ± 7.7 and 85.1 ± 27.4 nm. Among them, aromatic side‐chain‐containing polymers have 42% and 57% calcein encapsulation efficiency, whereas methyl‐ester‐containing polymers have 70% and 60% efficiency. The polymers with longer spacers (P2–P4) and aromatic groups (P3 and P4) have shown better stability and slow dye exchange over 48 h compared to the polymer with an aliphatic side chain and a shorter spacer probed by fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) study.
Short Aromatic Blocks Enhance Styrene Conversion in Polymer Cubosome Formation via Polymerization‐Induced Self‐Assembly
Authors: Sun Yalan , Zhao Yongbin , Chen Aihua
Published: January 2025

Polymer cubosomes (PCs) have garnered significant interest in the field of nanomaterials and nanotechnology due to their unique properties and potential applications. However, the fabrication of PCs remains challenging. Polymerization‐induced self‐assembly (PISA) is recognized as an efficient method for producing a variety of polymer particles, including PCs. Despite the advantages of PISA, the conversion of styrene (St), a core‐forming monomer commonly used in PC preparation, is relatively low. Herein, a novel strategy is introduced to enhance the St conversion in PC preparation via PISA by incorporating a short azobenzene‐containing block (PMAAz) into the hydrophilic macro‐chain transfer agent (macro‐CTA). Utilizing PMAAz‐tailed poly(poly(ethylene glycol) methyl ether methacrylate), the St conversion is successfully improved from an initial 12.9–13.8% to an enhanced range of 19.1–26.9%. This enhancement in conversion allows for a reduced feeding ratio of St to macro‐CTA in the preparation of PCs. Further studies into various blocks consisting of different hydrophobic monomers reveal that the aromatic interactions, derived from these short blocks, are crucial for increasing monomer conversion and facilitating PC formation. This study offers a direct and convenient approach to obtaining PCs with diversified functional groups efficiently, thereby significantly broadening the potential application of these materials.
Downregulation of SLC7A11 by Bis(4‐Hydroxy‐3,5‐Dimethylphenyl) Sulfone Induces Ferroptosis in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cell
Authors: Zou Liyi , Zhang Taomin , Yang Cui , Liu Weijing , Fahira Aamir , Yang Dongli , Zheng Biao , Yao Xiaojun , Liu Yi , Huang Zunnan
Published: January 2025

The progression of tumors has been demonstrated to have a strong correlation with ferroptosis. Bis(4‐hydroxy‐3,5‐dimethylphenyl) sulfone (TMBPS) has been shown to effectively inhibit the proliferation of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), but its underlying mechanism is not clear. In this study, ferrostatin‐1 (Fer‐1) was employed to explore whether the death of HCC cells caused by TMBPS is related to ferroptosis. The intracellular lipid peroxides, Fe2+, malondialdehyde (MDA), GSH/GSSG, mitochondrial morphology, and potential of HCC cells were detected after TMBPS treatment. The target of TMBPS was predicted by the molecular docking approach and verified via quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR), western blot, and cellular heat transfer assay (CETSA). Our results revealed that Fer‐1 effectively reversed the cell death induced by TMBPS in HCC cells. Treatment with TMBPS induced typical ferroptosis features, including increased levels of intracellular lipid peroxides, Fe2+, and MDA, along with a decreased GSSH/GSH ratio and mitochondrial potential. These effects were reversed by overexpressing SLC7A11. These findings suggest that the cell death triggered by TMBPS in HCC cells is linked to ferroptosis, potentially mediated through the inhibition of SLC7A11 expression.
Wideband Nonmagnetic Circulator Based on Spatiotemporally Modulated Resonators Designed With Coupled Microstrip Lines
Authors: Yang Chao , Chang Yumei , Cao Yan , Wang Qinghua , Xu Xiaomei
Published: January 2025

A wideband spatiotemporally modulated nonmagnetic circulator composed of three time‐varying resonators in Y‐topology is presented in this paper. The triple resonators are designed with coupled microstrip lines and connected to a central node. By applying a time‐modulated signal with a 120° progressive phase shift to the resonators, the angular momentum bias is applied to the structure, thereby achieving the circulator response. To enhance the bandwidth, a step impedance resonator is added to the end of each coupled microstrip line resonator, and therefore achieves broad isolation band for the circulator. As validation, a wideband nonmagnetic circulator with a center frequency of 1.0 GHz was designed, fabricated and measured. The measurement results agree well with the simulations, which the 20‐dB isolation bandwidth is 53 MHz, while the maximum in‐band isolation can achieve 34 dB, and the insertion loss is 1.9 dB.
A critical distance parameter for random vibration fatigue life estimation of notched metallic structures in the frequency domain
Authors: Gao Daiyang , Huang Yuming , Liao Wenhe
Published: January 2025

A critical distance parameter is introduced to describe the stress gradient effect of notched metallic structures under random vibration loadings, which is the frequency domain expression of the theory of critical distance (TCD) based line method stress. Fatigue life estimation on notched metallic structures could be carried out by combining this parameter with the spectral method for random vibration fatigue life analysis. The fatigue experiment under random vibration loadings is conducted on two types of notched plate specimens of 7075‐T6 aviation‐grade aluminum alloy, where both circumstances of large and small stress gradients in the notch region are investigated. Good correlation between the calculated results given by the proposed model and the experimental fatigue life results shows the satisfactory prediction capability on random vibration fatigue life for notch conditions of both steep and mild stress distribution variations.
The Impact of “Close Margins” in HPV‐Associated Oropharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma Treated with TORS
Authors: Calcano Gabriela A. , Rourk Katelyn S. , Routman David M. , O'Byrne Jamie J. , Chintakuntlawar Ashish V. , Garcia Joaquin J. , Price Daniel L. , Tasche Kendall K. , Moore Eric J. , Van Abel Kathryn M. , Yin Linda X.
Published: January 2025

Objective

Margin distance is a significant prognosticator in oral cavity cancer but its role in HPV‐related oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma [HPV(+)OPSCC] remains unclear. Here, we investigate the impact of margin distance on locoregional recurrence in HPV(+)OPSCC.

Study Design

This is a retrospective cohort study of surgically treated HPV(+)OPSCC patients. Patients received either standard of care (at least 60 Gy with or without cisplatin) or de‐escalated adjuvant therapy (30‐36 Gy with concurrent docetaxel). Margin distance was measured in mm from the primary specimen or in combination with separately submitted margins. Kaplan‐Meier survival analysis with univariate and multivariable Cox regressions were conducted to determine the impact of margin distance on risk of local and locoregional recurrence.

Setting

Setting for this is 3 tertiary centers between January 2010 and February 2024.

Results

Among 1102 included patients, 33 (3.0%) had positive final margins. 374 patients had adequate margin distance data available. Margin distance was >3 mm in 73.4%, 1 to 3 mm in 24.5%, and <1 mm in 2.2% of patients. Positive final margins, pT4 disease, pN2 disease, and surgery alone as a treatment modality (P < .02 for all) was associated with higher risk of 5‐year locoregional recurrence. Margin distance did not significantly impact risk of local or locoregional recurrence even after adjusting for de‐escalated adjuvant therapy (P > .05).

Conclusion

Positive final margins after TORS without adjuvant radiotherapy for HPV(+)OPSCC carries a high risk of local recurrence. Margin distance does not appear to significantly impact risk of local or locoregional recurrence, even after de‐escalated adjuvant radiotherapy.
Exome Sequencing of Fetuses With Intracranial Hemorrhage Unravels Novel Causative Genes and an Extreme Genetic Heterogeneity
Authors: Coste Thibault , Aloui Chaker , Chanclud Justine , Blondiaux Eléonore , Martinovic Jelena , Attie‐Bitach Tania , Petit Florence , Héron Delphine , de Brevern Alexandre G. , Radjasandirane Ragousandirane , Corpechot Michaelle , Morel Hélène , Petermann Rachel , Leutenegger Anne‐Louise , Tournier‐Lasserve Elisabeth
Published: January 2025

Objective

Fetal intracranial hemorrhage (FICH) is a rare and potentially deleterious condition. Fetal alloimmune thrombocytopenia and pathogenic variations in COL4A1/A2 genes are well‐recognized causes of FICH. However, pathogenic COL4A1/A2 variations are identified in only 20% of fetuses referred for FICH after excluding other known causes, leaving the majority unexplained and making genetic counseling difficult. Our main aim was to identify novel genes associated with FICH.

Method

Exome sequencing was performed on 113 unrelated fetuses (35 trios, 3 families and 75 probands) after negative COL4A1/A2 testing and exclusion of known risk factors. Exome analysis incorporated several strategies including analyses of de novo and biallelic variants, and a collapsing gene‐based burden test approach.

Results

Nine individuals (8%) had a pathogenic or likely pathogenic variant identified. Additionally, 14 fetuses had a suspicious variant identified in a candidate gene. Causative genes involved platelet production, hemostasis (MPL, MECOM, PROC), endothelial cell adhesion (ESAM), and mitochondrial metabolism (ATP5PO, COQ2, PDHA1). These findings suggest that FICH may result from a broader range of genetic abnormalities beyond previously known COL4A1/A2 gene mutations.

Conclusion

FICH is characterized by extreme genetic heterogeneity with various pathways involved, underscoring the importance of exome‐wide analyses to fully understand its causes.
Innovative Design‐for‐Recycling for Critical Material‐Free Interconnection of PV Modules
Authors: Perelman Antoine , Barth Vincent , Mandorlo Fabien , Voroshazi Eszter
Published: January 2025

Both metallization material consumption and module recycling are growing concerns in photovoltaic (PV) sector. In order to overcome these challenges, we present a module designed to facilitate recycling with no dispersive material consumption in interconnection while maintaining high module performances. Our approach aims to overcome these limitations by integrating a liquid optical coupling layer and carefully optimized front cover. This new glass‐glass module architecture comprises six elements. First, a solid polymer layer is melt on the intern side of the glass plates in which are embedded the connectors blocks their movements. Second, a transparent liquid layer around the cells maintains an optical index progression all along the light path to the cell surface as well as it separates the polymer layer from sticking to the cell surface. Finally, an edge sealant is melt on the periphery of glass plates to form a mechanical contact between connectors and metallization, and to seal the liquid layer. Optical simulations have been performed to ensure the optical relevance of this structure. A simple thermal model has also been developed to verify the thermal heat dissipation potential of this architecture. Last but not least, proof of concept modules have been fabricated and submitted to accelerated aging tests.
Nearshore Hydrodynamics and Sediment Dispersal Along Eroding Permafrost Coasts—Insights From Acoustic Doppler Current Profiler Measurements Around Herschel Island–Qikiqtaruk (Yukon, Canada)
Authors: Gimsa Justus , Fritz Michael , Lantuit Hugues
Published: January 2025

Permafrost coasts are eroding at an accelerating pace, delivering vast amounts of sediments, organic matter, nutrients, and pollutants into the Arctic Ocean. These fluxes play a crucial role in the coastal biogeochemical cycle, yet their magnitude, as well as the trajectory and fate of the eroded material, is largely unknown. Direct observations of hydrodynamics in the Arctic nearshore zone are needed to overcome this issue, but these are challenging and scarce. Here, we report on direct current measurements performed in the nearshore zone. We deployed two Acoustic Doppler Current Profilers (ADCP) in 7‐ and 12‐m water depth close to Herschel Island–Qikiqtaruk Yukon, Canada, to measure current velocities and directions throughout the water column. The data show that the currents change on a synoptic scale based on meteo‐oceanographic forcing. During storms, these currents exceed the threshold of bottom sediment remobilization. The mobilization potential in the nearshore zone is therefore primarily related to wind forcing but can be strongly diminished by the presence of sea ice. These observations have implications for the future state of the Arctic nearshore zone, because larger fetches and a longer open water season could enhance sediment mobilization and dispersal.
The development of higher education research topics between 2000 and 2021: Seven patterns from generalist journals
Authors: Oldac Yusuf Ikbal , Olivos Francisco
Published: January 2025

Higher education research, which was once trying to establish itself, is now accepted as an important research field across societies globally. Specifically, the last decades have seen dramatic developments. This study analysed the development of higher education research in the last two decades using novel natural language processing techniques. The study covered the abstracts of all articles published between 2000 and 2021 in the six generalist journals of higher education research. The findings highlight 15 emergent research topics, some of which have not been highlighted before. The study further analysed these 15 emergent research topics with the covariates of publication year, funding status, collaboration, world region, and journal, and conducted a diversity analysis of abstracts. Based on these analyses, the study argues for seven major patterns in the development of higher education research in the last two decades. The seven patterns highlight social and research issues in higher education, especially related to inequalities about identity and geographical location. The study calls for more inclusiveness in publication practices and overall higher education contexts to further pluralise and enrich higher education research with diverse perspectives.
COAL: Robust Contrastive Learning‐Based Visual Navigation Framework
Authors: Wang Zengmao , Hu Jianhua , Tang Qifei , Gao Wei
Published: January 2025

Real‐world robots will face a wide variety of complex environments when performing navigation or exploration tasks, especially in situations where the robots have never been seen before. Usually, robots need to establish local or global maps and then use path planning algorithms to determine their routes. However, in some environments, such as a wild grassy path or pavement on either side of a road, it is difficult for robots to plan routes through navigation maps. To address this, we propose a robust framework for robot navigation using contrastive learning called Contrastive Observation–Action in Latent (COAL) space. To extract features from the action space and observation space, respectively, COAL uses two different encoders. At the training stage, COAL does not require any data annotation and a mask approach is employed to keep features with significant differences away from each other in latent space. Similar to multimodal contrastive learning, we maximize bidirectional mutual information to align the features of observations and action sequences in latent space, which can enhance the generalization of the model. At the deployment stage, robots only need the current image as observation to complete exploration tasks. The most suitable action sequence is selected from the sampled data for generating control signals. We evaluate the robustness of COAL in both simulation and real environments. Only 41 min of unlabeled training data is required to allow COAL to explore environments that have never been seen before, even at night. Compared with state‐of‐the‐art methods, COAL has the strongest robustness and generalization ability. More importantly, the robustness of COAL is further improved by augmenting our training data using other open‐source data sets, which indicates that our framework has great potential to extract deep features of observations and action sequences. Our code and trained models are available at https://github.com/wzm206/COAL.
Sustainable Managers for the Future: Are Italian Universities Aligned With Best Practices?
Authors: Aversano Natalia , Nicoliello Mario
Published: January 2025

The Agenda 2030 and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) underscore the vital role of higher education institutions (HEIs) in equipping future leaders to address sustainability challenges. This study evaluates the extent to which the curricula of Italian public universities align with best practices for training sustainability managers, a pressing need highlighted by the 2023 Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD). Despite the introduction of new sustainability‐focused degree programs, our analysis reveals a disconnect between academic offerings and the competencies outlined in the literature and regulatory guidelines. Master's programs generally provide more comprehensive training, while bachelor's programs fall short in preparing students for the multifaceted demands of sustainability management. Although critical skills such as problem‐solving and critical thinking are well‐represented, ethics and values are notably absent from the curricula. Only a small proportion of programs meet the holistic educational standards necessary for effective sustainability management. This research not only identifies significant gaps in sustainability education but also emphasises the potential implications of these findings for the future of sustainability management. It calls for further investigation, including qualitative studies, to assess whether Italian universities are truly preparing future sustainability managers. Expanding the scope to include international comparisons and interdisciplinary approaches should be a focus of future research to provide a broader perspective on sustainability education.
Enhanced Gamma Ray Radiation Resistance of Silicone Elastomers via Trace Addition of Perovskite Nanocrystals for Free Radicals Scavenging
Authors: Zheng Wei , Han Xinyi , Hao Jinghao , Liu Han , Long Teng , Zhu Lin , Lu Haifeng , Wang Hua , Yu William W. , Zhou Chuanjian
Published: January 2025

Halide perovskites exhibit remarkable properties, such as high optical absorption coefficient, excellent defect tolerance, simple and cheap preparation process, etc., especially excellent radiation hardness, which makes them used in high‐energy ray radiation environments. Free radicals, with singly occupied molecular orbitals, are highly reactive intermediates that play a critical role in material degradation under ray radiation. However, the interaction between these radicals and halide perovskites remains inadequately understood, despite its crucial for enhancing the γ‐ray resistance of elastomers. This study investigates the interfacial charge transfer between halide perovskite nanocrystals (PNCs) and silicon, carbon, and hydrogen radicals, supported by theoretical calculations and electron spin resonance analyses, revealing the immobilization of reactive radicals on the PNC surface. To further investigate, amino‐propyl triethoxysilane (APTES)‐passivated PNCs are synthesized and incorporated into silicone elastomers via an in situ one‐step crosslinking process. Under high‐dose γ‐ray irradiation, these elastomers generate free radicals that typically degrade the material. PNCs effectively stabilize these radicals, improving the elastomer's γ‐ray resistance, with only an 11% loss in mechanical strength after 300 KGy, one‐fifth of the loss in unmodified silicones elastomers. This study provides valuable insights for developing radiation‐resistant perovskite polymer composites for aerospace and nuclear industries.
Epitaxy of Emerging Materials and Advanced Heterostructures for Microelectronics and Quantum Sciences
Authors: Lee Yeonjoo , Choi Soo Ho , Kim Hyunseok , Yoo Jinkyoung
Published: January 2025

Epitaxy, a process to prepare crystalline materials in nanostructures and thin films, is the core technology for preparing high‐quality materials as a key enabler of next‐generation microelectronics and quantum information system. Progress in epitaxy has been expanding the choice of materials and their heterostructures beyond the combinations limited by materials compatibility. However, the improvement of material quality, physical implementation of materials with unique properties, and integration of incommensurate materials in an architecture have been the challenging issues. Emerging materials, including 2D materials and quantum materials, have opened opportunities to study epitaxy mechanisms and realize various functional devices. Acceleration of discovery and progress in epitaxy research should be accomplished by “understanding of epitaxy under various circumstances at multiple length scales” and “integration of experiments and models.” In the perspective, a basic summary of the status of epitaxially grown materials, the challenges in epitaxy research, and integration of modeling epitaxy and ultimate control of the epitaxy process with advanced characterization techniques are discussed.
Sex, Gender, and Bodies: Transmisogyny and Garfinkel's Status Degradation Ceremony
Authors: Henderson Elle , Tennent Emma
Published: January 2025

Hatred and fear of trans people, particularly trans women, are worldwide social phenomena. Transphobic rhetoric rests on essentialist understandings of sex and gender, but ethnomethodology shows how the “natural attitude” to sex/gender is a practical accomplishment. We use conversation analysis and membership categorization analysis to examine the workings of the natural attitude in a public submission to a government select committee about a law that would affect transgender people. We adapt Garfinkel's concept of the status degradation ceremony to show how the submission systematically used categories of sex and gender to present trans women as illegitimate and dangerous in women's spaces. We also show how the submission was recognized as transmisogynistic and challenged by government ministers of the select committee. We thus show how people can accomplish and challenge transmisogyny through common‐sense knowledge about sex and gender.
Exploring the Potential of Tamarindus indica and Caryota mitis Leaf Stalk Fibers for Sustainable Biodegradable Composites
Authors: Sivaraj Vijaya Gurupranes , Nagarajan Bala Murali , Mahalingam Jayaraj , Somasundaram Nachimuthu , Subrananian Ayyappan , Natarajan Shanmugasundram , Kaliyappan Vijayakkannan
Published: January 2025

As a substitute for synthetic materials, it is difficult for researchers studying natural fiber materials to develop biodegradable composite materials. These natural fiber‐infused polymer composites are environmentally friendly and exhibit excellent mechanical properties. The main objectives of this work were to create and analyze epoxy polymer composites reinforced with Tamarindus indica and Caryota mitis leaf stalk fiber. Five distinct compositions were used in the hand lay‐up procedure to create composite specimens. An evaluation was conducted on the mechanical qualities, including hardness, tensile strength, and impact resistance. To evaluate the physical and chemical properties of the composites, their metallurgical features were investigated using wear, microstructure, and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). Specimen C, composed of 20% C. mitis, 20% T. indica powder, and 60% epoxy, showed the best tensile strength (69.12 MPa) and the highest hardness (76.37 VHN) of all the compositions examined. The composite exhibited favorable bonding and temperature adaptability, as demonstrated by the microstructure and TGA studies. All things considered, research indicates that these hybrid composites have better particular qualities, which makes them suitable materials for use in automotive and aerospace applications.
A presumed cervical lymphocoele in a crossbreed dog
Authors: Potamopoulou Maria , Guilherme Sergio , Bacon Nick
Published: January 2025

We report a case of a caudoventral cervical presumed lymphocoele in a dog, resembling the human condition. A 3‐year‐old, male crossbreed presented with a sudden‐onset subcutaneous swelling in the left caudoventral neck following minor trauma. Initial ultrasound revealed a fluid‐filled cavity, and subsequent computed tomography imaging confirmed a non‐enhancing, fluid‐filled lesion. Cytology indicated lymphatic collection and excluded infection. Conservative management resulted in complete resolution within 4 weeks. This case highlights the importance of recognising lymphocoeles in veterinary practice, understanding their clinical and imaging characteristics, and considering conservative management as a viable treatment option.
Anomaly detection and facilitation AI to empower decentralized autonomous organizations for secure crypto-asset transactions
Authors: Ikeda Yuichi , Hadfi Rafik , Ito Takayuki , Fujihara Akihiro
Published: January 2025

This proposal introduces a novel decision-making framework to advance safe economic activities in cyberspace. We focus on identifying anomalies within crypto-asset trading, recognized as potential sources of criminal activity, severely undermining the credibility of such assets. Detecting and mitigating such anomalies holds significant societal implications, particularly in fostering trust within blockchain networks. We aim to bolster the “social trust” inherent to blockchain technology by facilitating informed economic activities in cyberspace. To achieve this, we propose integrating two artificial intelligence (AI) systems into a blockchain-based decentralized autonomous organization (DAO). The first AI application involves amalgamating various anomaly indicators, spanning from cluster coefficient, entropy, triangular motif analysis, correlation tensor analysis, loop component by Hodge decomposition, loop causality detection, network classification using graph Laplacian, and persistent homology analysis, into a comprehensive indicator using a Boltzmann machine. The second AI application entails deploying conversational AI to guide and support traders, aiding them in making informed trading decisions. This system is designed to alert DAO members to anomalies based on the integrated indicators, especially during massive price fluctuations. We operate under the assumption of close collaboration between governments, experts, traders, system developers, and operators to effectively organize DAOs. The primary technical challenge in our proposal lies in developing a wallet assisted by an intelligent software agent capable of safe interactions with traders within a unified DAO. With this organization, we envision fostering a global economic ecosystem where physical and cyber worlds converge, allowing democratic economic participation.
Moderating factors in psilocybin-assisted treatment affecting mood and personality: A naturalistic, open-label investigation
Authors: Irrmischer Mona , Puxty Drew , Yıldırım Barış Onur , Deijen Jan Berend , Engelbregt Hessel
Published: January 2025

Rationale

Psychedelic-assisted therapy is increasingly applied within mental health treatment.

Objectives

This study focused on factors moderating changes in the acute and long-term effects of an individual psilocybin-assisted program on depression, anxiety, PTSD and personality structures by including demographic factors, subjective experience and degree of mystical type experiences during the dosing, as well as emotional breakthrough and personal growth after the program.

Methods

At baseline, 1 week and 3 months after the psilocybin program participants completed the Generalized Anxiety Disorder Assessment (GAD-7), Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), PTSD Checklist for DSM-5 (PCL-5) and NEO Five-Factor Inventory-3 (NEO-FFI-3). In addition, after the dosing the Mystical Experiences Questionnaire (MEQ-30), Posttraumatic Growth Inventory (PTGI) and Emotional Breakthrough Inventory (EBI) were administered. Moderation effects were established using linear mixed-model analysis.

Results

A single high dose of psilocybin in combination with therapy was found to lower symptoms of anxiety, depression, PTSD and neuroticism over a period of 3-months. Scores on openness and conscientiousness increased after the treatment only. Participants reported mystical type experiences, emotional breakthrough and personal growth. These subjective experiences together with demographic factors were moderating the observed positive changes.

Conclusions

Findings indicate that individual psilocybin-assisted therapy has the potential for beneficial effects on mood and personality characteristics. Moreover, the study highlights the importance of subjective experiences and demographic factors in moderating this effect. This study adds to the ongoing research on psilocybin-assisted therapy by investigating contributing factors for optimizing this evolving type of therapy.
Efficacy and safety of microwave ablation in solitary kidney patients with T1a small renal masses
Authors: Justo-Jaume Carlos , Stempel Max , Qiu Jessica , Gonzalez Miranda Luis , Yan Guofen , Lyons Genevieve , Sands Kenneth , Schenkman Noah , Krupski Tracey , Culp Stephen , Lobo Jennifer
Published: January 2025

Objectives

To assess the safety and efficacy of using microwave ablation (MWA) to treat solitary kidney (SK) patients with T1a renal cell carcinoma (RCC).

Methods

Retrospective analysis of a prospectively maintained database identified patients with T1a RCC with either congenital or acquired SK. Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was calculated from serum creatinine before MWA and after at 6 and 12 months post-procedure. The local recurrence-free survival (LRFS), metastatic-recurrence free survival (MRFS), cancer-specific survival, and overall survival were analyzed with the Kaplan–Meier method.

Results

A total of 26 patients met inclusion criteria, including 3 congenital and 23 acquired SK patients. eGFR was lower at both 6 and 12 months post-procedure compared to pre-procedure, with the congenital SK group having a more pronounced reduction in eGFR at both post-procedure timepoints. Median follow-up time was 28.6 months (IQR 12.4–55.4). Four patients (15.4%) experienced local recurrence. For LRFS, mean survival time was 69.4 months. There were 5 patients (19.2%) that experienced metastatic recurrence, with median and mean survival time at 101.1 and 82.0 months, respectively. The mean time for RCC-specific survival was 94.7 months, while median and mean time for overall survival was 43.1 and 61.7 months, respectively.

Conclusion

With a moderate reduction in renal function and a comparable rate of local recurrence compared to prior literature, this work demonstrates that MWA remains a viable alternative to more invasive techniques, particularly for high-risk SK patients with RCC. Our work highlights the need for further research on effectiveness of MWA in cancer control and preservation of renal function in larger cohorts of SK patients over extended follow-up times.
Asciminib resistance of a new BCR::ABL1 p.I293_K294insSSLRD mutant detected in a Ph + ALL patient
Authors: Cullot Grégoire , Lagarde Valérie , Cayuela Jean-Michel , Prouzet-Mauléon Valérie , Turcq Béatrice , Hicheri Yosr , Roy Lydia , Braun Thorsten , Mozziconacci Marie-Joelle , Alary Anne-Sophie , Dulucq Stéphanie
Published: January 2025

Chronic myeloid leukemia and Philadelphia chromosome-positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia patients largely benefit from an expanding tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) toolbox that has improved the outcome of both diseases. However, TKI success is continuously challenged by mutation-driven acquired resistance and therefore, close monitoring of clonal genetic diversity is necessary to ensure proper clinical management and adequate response to treatment. Here, we report the case of a ponatinib-resistant Philadelphia chromosome-positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia (Ph + ALL) patient harboring a BCR::ABL1 p.I293_K294insSLLRD mutation. Using in vitro proliferation assays on newly generated Ba/F3 cell lines, we confirmed that the mutation confers moderate resistance to ponatinib, and to imatinib and nilotinib. In contrast, BCR::ABL1SLLRD Ba/F3 cells remain highly sensitive to dasatinib. Unexpectedly, the insertion also provides resistance to asciminib with no inhibitory effect up to 1000 nM. Based on predicted structural models, we speculate that the p.I293_K294insSLLRD disrupts the interaction between the SH3 domain and the kinase domain, shifting the equilibrium toward the active conformation. This shift confers resistance to TKIs that preferentially bind to the inactive conformation, as well as to the allosteric asciminib inhibitor. However, the mutation retains sensitivity to dasatinib, which targets the active form of the kinase.
Weak pairwise justifiability as a common root of Arrow’s and the Gibbard–Satterthwaite theorems
Authors: Barberà Salvador , Berga Dolors , Moreno Bernardo , Nicolò Antonio
Published: January 2025

We introduce a novel principle that we call weak pairwise justifiability, which applies to a large class of collective choice rules, including the social choice functions and the social welfare functions about which the Gibbard–Satterthwaite theorem and Arrow’s impossibility theorem are predicated, respectively. We prove that, under appropriate qualifications, our principle is a common root for these two classical results, when applied to rules defined over the full domain of weak preference orders (also for strict).
B-spline-based material point method with dynamic load balancing technique for large-scale simulation
Authors: Hidano Soma , Pan Shaoyuan , Yoshida Keina , Nomura Reika , Miki Yohei , Kawai Masatoshi , Moriguchi Shuji , Nakajima Kengo , Terada Kenjiro
Published: January 2025

In this study, a dynamic load-balancing (DLB) technique based on the sampling method is developed for MPMs using higher-order B-spline basis functions for parallel MPI calculations based on domain decomposition, in order to perform large-scale, long-duration landslide simulations in realistic computation time. Higher-order B-spline basis functions use a range of influence across cells compared to general basis functions, but this DLB technique dynamically adjusts the size of the computational domain according to the material point distribution, so that the material points are almost equally distributed across all cores. This allows the load bias between cores to be mitigated and the advantages of parallel computation to be fully exploited. Specifically, the novel contribution of this study is that the domain decomposition allows for proper communication between control points, even if the physical regions of the cores are staggered or non-adjacent, and even if the area of influence of B-spline basis functions spans multiple subdomains at this time. In numerical examples, the quasi-3D benchmark solid column collapse problem is computed for multiple core configurations to verify the effectiveness of the DLB method in terms of scalability and parallelization efficiency. The simulation of the full 3D column collapse problem also illustrates the applicability of the proposed DLB method to large-scale disaster simulations. Finally, to demonstrate the promise and capability of the DLB technique in the MPM algorithm, a full-scale size landslide disaster simulation is carried out to illustrate that it can withstand some practical size calculations.
Introducing the forearm fracture index to define the diametaphyseal junction zone through clinical evaluation in a cohort of 366 diametaphyseal radius fractures
Authors: von Schrottenberg Christoph , Beck Ricardo , Beck Susann Marie , Kruppa Christian , Kuhn Matthias , Schwerk Philipp , Fitze Guido , Schultz Jurek
Published: January 2025

Background

Unstable diametaphyseal radius fractures (DMRFs) can be prone to complications, and treatment strategies are heterogeneous. Studies are difficult to interpret as definitions of the diametaphyseal junction zone (DMJZ) are impractical for clinical use, imprecise, or prone to error.

Methods

We introduce the forearm fracture index (FFI) to define DMRFs in radiographs and ultrasound. The FFI is calculated by the ratio of the fracture’s distance to the distal radius growth plate over the width of the radius growth plate. The higher the FFI, the more proximal the fracture is. We define DMRFs to have an FFI between 1 and 2. All DMRFs treated at our institution between 2010 and 2020 were identified, and demographic data, fracture characteristics, and therapeutic strategies were assessed retrospectively. Comparative sub-analysis was performed between DMRFs(−) as defined in previous publications (Lieber in Unfallchirurg 114:292–299, 2011) and DMRFs( +) that were more proximal but still met our criteria.

Results

516 DMRFs were identified, representing 13.0% of all screened radius fractures. Excluding buckle fractures and patients lost to follow-up, 366 DMRFs were eligible for further analysis. Conservatively managed DMRFs were more distal than those managed operatively, represented by a lower FFI (1.28 vs. 1.34, p = 0.0051). 21 (5.7%) of all DMRFs were identified as DMRFs( +). These were significantly more dislocated and necessitated surgery more often than DMRFs(−) (52.4 vs. 24.6%, p = 0.009).

Conclusions

The FFI may be a good tool to identify and describe DMRFs. It can help guiding treatment decisions and make future studies on this entity more comparable.

Level of evidence

Study of Diagnostic Test, Level II.
Tensorial inversion of fourth-order material tensor: orthotropy and transverse isotropy
Authors: Hartmann Stefan , Schröder Jörg
Published: January 2025

In the theory of anisotropic linear elasticity, there are different approaches to define the elasticity in a coordinate-dependent relation by matrices—commonly, the Voigt-notation—or tensorial expressions using fourth-order tensors. In view of numerical treatment, for example, the finite element method, the stress state is defined by the strain state via the fourth-order elasticity tensor,

$$\textbf{T} = {\pmb {\mathcal {{C}}}} \textbf{E}$$

T
=

C

E

. In view of analytical considerations required, for instance, for parameter identification purposes, the inverse relation

$$\textbf{E} = {\pmb {\mathcal {{C}}}}^{-1} \textbf{T}$$

E
=

C

-
1

T

is necessary. In this paper, the inversion of the fourth-order representation is developed in a coordinate-free representation. using the concept of invariant theory, which is based on the principal invariants and the so-called mixed invariants of the strain tensor/stress tensor. The mixed invariants are defined in terms of the structural tensors, which represent the preferred directions of the material under consideration. The advantage here is that the constitutive equations for the anisotropic material (which are invariant under the elements of the material symmetry group) can be represented as isotopic tensor functions. Thus, the compliance tensor

$${\pmb {\mathcal {{C}}}}^{-1}$$

C

-
1

can be obtained for any orientation of the anisotropy axes. We limit ourselves here to the case of transverse isotropy and orthotropy in a coordinate invariant representation.
Institutional Investors with Disciplinary History and CSR Behavior of Investee Firms
Authors: Bonsall IV Samuel B. , Mammadov Babak , Zykaj Blerina Bela
Published: January 2025

This study explores how the prior unethical behavior of institutional investors impacts the corporate social responsibility (CSR) activities of the companies in which they invest. To identify such behavior, we focus on violations of laws and regulations by Registered Investment Advisers as reported to the Securities and Exchange Commission. Our findings reveal that these investors discourage firms’ engagement in CSR activities within their investee firms, which we attribute to institutions’ disregard for social norms. Our inferences remain unchanged with alternative identification strategies and more stringent definitions of unethical behavior, suggesting that endogeneity bias and construct validity issues do not explain our baseline results. Additionally, we find that statements by these investors in support of CSR initiatives appear hypocritical, as they fail to mitigate the negative consequences of their ownership on CSR activities. Overall, our study suggests that institutional investors’ prior unethical behavior influences their governance activities, generating negative social externalities.
Understanding the Douglas–Rachford splitting method through the lenses of Moreau-type envelopes
Authors: Atenas Felipe
Published: January 2025

We analyze the Douglas–Rachford splitting method for weakly convex optimization problems, by the token of the Douglas–Rachford envelope, a merit function akin to the Moreau envelope. First, we use epi-convergence techniques to show that this artifact approximates the original objective function via epigraphs. Secondly, we present how global convergence and local linear convergence rates for Douglas–Rachford splitting can be obtained using such envelope, under mild regularity assumptions. The keystone of the convergence analysis is the fact that the Douglas–Rachford envelope satisfies a sufficient descent inequality alongside the generated sequence, a feature that allows us to use arguments usually employed for descent methods. We report numerical experiments that use weakly convex penalty functions, which are comparable with the known behavior of the method in the convex case.
The Lady and the Plants: Two Notions of Teleology in Agnes Arber’s Philosophy of Plants
Authors: Straetmanns Vera Maximilia
Published: January 2025

Agnes Arber (1879–1960) was a British plant morphologist, historian of botany, and philosopher of biology. Though now largely forgotten, her work offers valuable insights into morphological as well as philosophical issues. This paper focuses on Arber’s work on teleology in plants. After providing a brief overview of her life and distinct style of work, two notions of teleology are presented, which become apparent in Arber’s morphological and philosophical work. The first notion, labeled final teleology, is based on Aristotle’s final cause and deals with adaptation-based explanations in biology. The second is labeled formal teleology. It is grounded in the Aristotelian formal cause and deals with the inherent directiveness of developing structures and the actualization of potentialities in organisms and their parts. Whereas Arber showed a reserved and skeptical attitude towards final teleology, she was very sympathetic to formal teleology, building her general morphological framework on it. Two examples from Arber’s work are then given, which illustrate how formal teleology informed her theorizing: the partial-shoot theory of the leaf, and parallelism in evolution as a counter-proposal to natural selection. Finally, Arber’s teleological interpretation of plant morphology is historically contextualized and connected to recent research developments in evolutionary biology and plant morphology.