bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Structural Characteristics Features of the Nanocomposite Systems of CdS Quantum Dots in the Gel Matrix Obtained by the Method of Small-Angle X-Ray Scattering
Authors: Galkina Anna N. , Sergeev Alexander A.
Published: March 2014

The strucrture of CdS quantum dots 0,3% (mass), stabilized by the solution of the mercaptosuccinic acid in the gel matrix 50% THEOS is investigated by small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS). Application of modern methods of SAXS data interpretation, including procedure of ab initio modeling of particle structure, allowed us for the to reveal structural organization of both individual nanoparticles and of their clusters incorporated in the polymer matrix. As a result, the shape, size, and size distribution of the obtained nanoparticles and their clusters depended on the structure of the gel matrix used as a formation medium.
The Effect of Heating on the Magnetic Properties of Fe71,5Cu1Nb5Si16,5B6 Amorphous Film
Authors: Pechnikov Vladimir S. , Solodovnikov Roman V.
Published: March 2014

This article describes the results of measuring the temperature dependence of saturation magnetization of amorphous film on an iron basis at different temperatures with preliminary heating of the sample. The temperature curves were obtained for a sample without prior heating and for a sample after annealing at temperatures exceeding the temperature of crystallization. It is shown that the Curie temperature of the sample after annealing increases, the temperature dependence of the magnetization is described by the quantum-mechanical equation of state of crystalline magnetic materials (the Brillouin function). Annealing at 820°C leads to the formation of two magnetic phases with the Curie temperatures of approximately 400 and 650°C. The emergence of the two phases is accompanied by a sharp increase in the residual magnetization and coercive force of the sample.
Adsorption Configuration of CH4 on Fe/SiO2 Surface: First-Principles Calculations
Authors: Chibisova Mary A. , Chibisov Andrey N.
Published: March 2014

In the present work the effects of the isomorphic substitution of silicon with iron on the structure of a nanoporous SiO2 surface and its interaction with methane were studied within a density functional theory framework. We predicted the structures and detailed energetics for the adsorption of CH4 on the surface. We found that the local atomic structure of the Fe/SiO2 nanocomposites and the CH4 molecules changed because of the interactions.
Fabrication of Nano-Sized Silicon Powder by Adiabatic Compression
Authors: Pozdnyakov George A. , Yakovlev Vladimir N. , Saprykin Anatoly I.
Published: March 2014

The article describes a new method for nano-sized silicon powder fabrication. The method is based on monosilane thermal decomposition at the adiabatic compression. Homogeneous conditions of chemical transformation ensure a high product purity and monodispersity. Both amorphous and crystalline silicon powders were obtained in the experiments.
Ab Initio Calculation of Cobalt Interlayer Size Influence on Tensile Strength in WC-Co Hard Alloy
Authors: Gnidenko Anton
Published: March 2014

Quantum-mechanical calculations were performed for investigation of tensile strength for WC/Co/WC systems with the thickness of the cobalt interlayer of 3 and 7 atomic layers. It has been shown that the cobalt interlayer increasing leads to decreasing of the tensile strength from 17 GPa to 14 GPa. In addition, vacancy-type defect formation reduces the tensile strength of about 2 times.
Levirate marriage amongst the Hebrews and widow's inheritance amongst the Yoruba: A comparative investigation
Authors: Olanisebe Samson O. , Oladosu Olusegun A.
Published: March 2014

In ancient Israel, even though widowhood was not something people were praying for, when it came, the people involved were protected by the legal and customary structures already in place. One of those structures in the Old Testament is the institution of the levirate marriage where the right and the possession due to a widow without a son for her late husband could be protected and appropriated. A similar custom was also found amongst the pre-colonial Yoruba people through the widow�s inheritance which guarantees the welfare of the widow after the demise of her husband. However, these structures have been dismantled by Christianity, thereby exposing the majority of present-day widows to untold hardship. This article, therefore, through historical, descriptive and comparative methods, examines the customs of the levirate marriage and widow�s inheritance in the two cultures, ascertains how effective they were in addressing the welfare and protection of the rights and privileges of widows and recommends how the church can better see to the welfare of the widows in the society.
Air–sea fluxes of oxygenated volatile organic compounds across the Atlantic Ocean
Authors: Yang M. , Beale R. , Liss P. , Johnson M. , Blomquist B. , Nightingale P.
Published: March 2014

Abstract. We present air–sea fluxes of oxygenated volatile organics compounds (OVOCs) quantified by eddy covariance during the Atlantic Meridional Transect cruise in 2012. Measurements of acetone, acetaldehyde, and methanol were made in several different oceanic provinces and over a wide range of wind speeds of 1–18 m s−1. The ocean appears to be a sink for acetone in the higher latitudes of the North Atlantic but a source in the subtropics. In the South Atlantic, seawater acetone was near saturation relative to the atmosphere, resulting in essentially zero net flux. For acetaldehyde, a small oceanic emission is implied from measured flux, but of a lower magnitude than predicted based on the two-layer model. Chemical enhancement of air–sea acetaldehyde exchange due to aqueous hydration appears to be minor. The deposition velocity of methanol correlates linearly with the transfer velocity of sensible heat, confirming predominant airside control. We examine the relationships between the OVOC concentrations in air as well as in water, and compute the gross emission and deposition fluxes of these gases.
Right-sided endocarditis in an adult patient with hyperimmunoglobulin-E syndrome successfully treated with high-dose daptomycin
Authors: Vallianou Natalia G. , Gounari Penny , Skourtis Alex , Panagos John , Sioula E.
Published: March 2014

Hyperimmunoglobulin-E syndrome is a syndrome of recurrent staphylococcal abscesses, sinopulmonary infections, and severe eczema, which is characterized by increased IgE and specific facial features. Herein, we describe a patient with hyperimmunoglobulin-E syndrome and right-sided endocarditis due to Staphylococcus aureus, which was successfully treated with high-dose daptomycin.
An analytical approach for the determination of the lateral trap position in ultra-scaled MOSFETs
Authors: Illarionov Yury Yu. , Bina Markus , Tyaginov Stanislav E. , Grasser Tibor
Published: March 2014

We propose a new method to determine the lateral trap position in ultra-scaled MOSFETs with a precision of less than 1 nm. The method is based on an analytical model which links the surface potential in the presence of a discrete trap to the drain voltage. We demonstrate that the dependence between the surface potential in the damaged region of the channel and the drain voltage is quasi-linear. The unique slope of this dependence corresponds to a particular lateral trap position and can thus be used as a fingerprint to locate the trap. A high accuracy is reached due to a negligibly small impact of the random dopant fluctuations on the slope magnitude. To verify our analytical approach we employ standard technology computer aided design (TCAD) methods, including random discrete dopants for both n- and p-MOSFETs with various channel lengths.
Wide operational margin capability of 1 kbit spin-transfer-torque memory array chip with 1-PMOS and 1-bottom-pin-magnetic-tunnel-junction type cell
Authors: Koike Hiroki , Ohsawa Takashi , Miura Sadahiko , Honjo Hiroaki , Ikeda Shoji , Hanyu Takahiro , Ohno Hideo , Endoh Tetsuo
Published: March 2014

This paper discusses the optimal combination of 1 transistor (T) and 1 magnetic tunnel junction (MTJ) type cell for spin transfer torque memory. Taking into consideration of current magnitude for both the T and the MTJ, either PMOS — bottom pin structure or NMOS — top pin structure can be a promising choice. Focusing on the PMOS–bottom pin structure from the viewpoint of avoiding process difficulty, we clarified the condition that the structure would be effective. In order to verify the structure’s effectiveness, a stand-alone MTJ test element group and a 1 kbit memory array chip were designed and fabricated with 90 nm CMOS/100 nm MTJ process. With the pass bit percentage measurement of the memory chip, we successfully demonstrated that 1-PMOS and 1-bottom-pin-MTJ has the wide operation margin of 100% pass at near 1.6 V. It will be an effective solution for 1T–1MTJ memories.
Target Localization and Toxicity in Dose-Escalated Prostate Radiotherapy with Image-Guided Approach using Daily Planar Kilovoltage Imaging
Authors: Nath S. K. , Sandhu A. P. , Sethi R. A. , Jensen L. G. , Rosario M. D. , Kane C. J. , Parsons J. K. , Millard F. E. , Jiang S. B. , Rice R. K. , Pawlicki T. , Mundt A. J.
Published: March 2014

Dose escalation with intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) for carcinoma of the prostate has augmented the need for accurate prostate localization prior to dose delivery. Daily planar kilovoltage (kV) imaging is a low-dose image-guidance technique that is prevalent among radiation oncologists. However, clinical outcomes evaluating the benefit of daily kV imaging are lacking. The purpose of this study was to report our clinical experience, including prostate motion and gastrointestinal (GI) and genitourinary (GU) toxicities, using this modality. A retrospective analysis of 100 patients treated consecutively between December 2005 and March 2008 with definitive external beam IMRT for T1c-T4 disease were included in this analysis. Prescription doses ranged from 74–78 Gy (median, 76) in 2 Gy fractions and were delivered following daily prostate localization using on-board kV imaging (OBI) to localize gold seed fiducial markers within the prostate. Acute and late toxicities were graded as per the NCI CTCAEv3.0. The median follow-up was 22 months. The magnitude and direction of prostate displacement and daily shifts in three axes are reported. Of note, 9.1% and 12.9% of prostate displacements were ≥ 5 mm in the anterior-posterior and superior-inferior directions, respectively. Acute grade 2 GI and GU events occurred in 11% and 39% of patients, respectively, however no grade 3 or higher acute GI or GU events were observed. Regarding late toxicity, 2% and 17% of patients developed grade 2 toxicities, and similarly no grade 3 or higher events had occurred by last follow-up. Thus, kV imaging detected a substantial amount of inter-fractional displacement and may help reduce toxicity profiles, especially high grade events, by improving the accuracy of dose delivery.
Perfusion and Permeability MR Imaging of Gliomas
Authors: Shiroishi M. S. , Habibi M. , Rajderkar D. , Yurko C. , Go J. L. , Lerner A. , Mogensen M. A. , Kim P. E. , Boyko O. B. , Zee C-S. , Law M.
Published: March 2014

Conventional contrast-enhanced MR imaging is the current standard technique for the diagnosis and treatment evaluation of gliomas and other brain neoplasms. However, this method is quite limited in its ability to characterize the complex biology of gliomas and so there is a need to develop more quantitative imaging methods. Perfusion and permeability MR imaging are two such techniques that have shown promise in this regard. This review will highlight the underlying principles, applications, and pitfalls of these evolving advanced MRI methods.
High Energy Shock Waves and 5-Aminolevulinic for Sonodynamic Therapy: Effects in a Syngeneic Model of Colon Cancer
Authors: Serpe L. , Canaparo R. , Berta L. , Bargoni A. , Zara G. P. , Frairia R.
Published: March 2014

The cytotoxic effect of the natural porphyrin precursor 5-aminolevulinic acid (ALA) exposed to high energy shock waves (HESW) was investigated in vitro on DHD/K12/TRb rat colon cancer cells and in vivo on a syngeneic colon cancer model. In vitro, viable cell growth was determined by trypan blue exclusion assay and cell death was investigated by flow cytometry. ALA (50 μg/ml) and HESW (E1, EFD = 0.22 mJ/mm2, 1000 shots or E2, EFD = 0.88 mJ/mm2, 500 shots) showed a significant reduction of cancer cell proliferation at day 3 compared to cells exposed to ALA (p < 0.01) or HESW (p < 0.001) alone. An enhancement of necrotic and apoptotic cells was observed after combined treatment at day 1 with ALA and HESW E1 (a 3.1 and 6.4 fold increase vs ALA alone) or E2 (a 3.4 and 5.3 fold increase vs ALA alone). In vivo, apoptosis detection was carried out by TUNEL assay, the pro-apoptotic gene Bad and Bcl-2 mRNA expression was evaluated by quantitative SYBR Green real time RT-PCR and cleavage of poly(ADP-ribose)-polymerase (PARP) was investigated by Western Blotting. An enhancement of apoptosis was observed in tumour tissues after the combined treatment at day 1 with ALA (375 mg/kg i.v.) and HESW (E2) compared to that of ALA exposure alone with improved apoptotic index (a 2.0 fold increase), Bad enhanced mRNA expression (p < 0.01), Bcl-2 decreased mRNA expression (p < 0.05) and increased PARP cleavage. The interaction between HESW and ALA is then effective in inducing apoptosis on a syngeneic colon cancer model.
Rare‐Earth (R) In‐Plane Ordering in Novel (Mo, R, Nb)4AlC3 Quinary o‐MAX Nanolaminates and their 2D Derivatives
Authors: Guo Hongyun , Fu Xiaoxiao , Peng Lishan , Wang Chaobo , Zhuang Yujuan , Chong He , Chen Zhaohui , Gong Weijiang , Yan Mi , Wang Qiang , Cui Weibin
Published: July 2024

Nanolamellar transition metal carbides are gaining increasing attentions because of the promising application in energy storage of their 2D derivatives. There are in‐plane and out‐of‐plane atomic ordered occupations, which is thought to only be formed in separated systems due to totally different origins and crystallographic structure. In present work, starting from (Mo, Nb)4AlC3 o‐MAX phase where out‐of‐plane ordered occupation is experimentally and theoretically proved for Mo/Nb atoms, rare‐earth elements (R = Y, Gd‐Tm, Lu) are introduced, and the novel Mo3.33‐xR0.67NbxAlC3 (x = 1, 1.25, 1.5, 1.75, 2, 2.25, and 2.5) super‐ordered (s‐) MAX phase is synthesized, where R is ordered at the outer layer in the strict stoichiometry meanwhile Mo/Nb maintains the out‐of‐plane ordered occupation. By R introduction, s‐MAX is easier to be delaminated to obtain the s‐MXene with the topochemical ordered vacancies, leading into the enhanced supercapacitance of 114.9 F g−1 in Mo1.33Nb2C3 s‐MXene compared with 95.1 F g−1 in Mo2Nb2C3 o‐MXene. By Pt anchoring, very low overpotential of 22 mV at a current density of 10 mA cm−2 is achieved for HER applications. This study demonstrates a novel variety of s‐MAX phase and seeks to inspire further exploration of the ordered MAX and MXene families.
SOX12 Facilitates Hepatocellular Carcinoma Progression and Metastasis through Promoting Regulatory T‐Cells Infiltration and Immunosuppression
Authors: Luo Xiangyuan , Huang Wenjie , Li Siwen , Sun Mengyu , Hu Dian , Jiang Junqing , Zhang Zerui , Wang Yijun , Wang Yufei , Zhang Jiaqian , Wu Zhangfan , Ji Xiaoyu , Liu Danfei , Chen Xiaoping , Zhang Bixiang , Liang Huifang , Li Yiwei , Liu Bifeng , Wang Shuai , Xu Xiao , Nie Yongzhan , Wu Kaichun , Fan Daiming , Xia Limin
Published: July 2024

Despite the success of immunotherapy in treating hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), HCC remains a severe threat to health. Here, a crucial transcription factor, SOX12, is revealed that induces the immunosuppression of liver tumor microenvironment. Overexpressing SOX12 in HCC syngeneic models increases intratumoral regulatory T‐cell (Treg) infiltration, decreases CD8+T‐cell infiltration, and hastens HCC metastasis. Hepatocyte‐specific SOX12 knockout attenuates DEN/CCl4‐induced HCC progression and metastasis, whereas hepatocyte‐specific SOX12 knock‐in accelerates these effects. Mechanistically, SOX12 transcriptionally activates C‐C motif chemokine ligand 22 (CCL22) expression to promote the recruitment and suppressive activity of Tregs. Moreover, SOX12 transcriptionally upregulates CD274 expression to suppress CD8+T‐cell infiltration. Either knockdown of CCL22 or PD‐L1 dampens SOX12‐mediated HCC metastasis. Blocking of CC chemokine receptor 4 (CCR4), a receptor for CCL22, by inhibitor C‐021 or Treg‐specific knockout of CCR4 inhibits SOX12‐mediated HCC metastasis. Transforming growth factor‐β1 (TGF‐β1)/TGFβR1‐Smad2/3/4 is identified as a key upstream signaling for SOX12 overexpression in HCC cells. Combining C‐021 or TGFβR1 inhibitor galunisertib with anti‐PD‐L1 exhibits an enhanced antitumor effect in two HCC models. Collectively, the findings demonstrate that SOX12 contributes to HCC immunosuppression through the CCL22/CCR4‐Treg and PD‐L1‐CD8+T axes. Blocking of CCR4 or TGFβR1 improves the efficacy of anti‐PD‐L1 in SOX12‐mediated HCC.
Ultra‐Wide Interlayered WxMo2xSy Alloy Electrode Patterning through High‐Precision Controllable Photonic‐Synthesis
Authors: Tian Mengyao , Li Xin , Song Aisheng , Xu Chenyang , Yuan Yongjiu , Cheng Qian , Zuo Pei , Wang Sumei , Liang Misheng , Wang Ruoxi , Ma Tianbao , Qu Liangti , Jiang Lan
Published: July 2024

Ultra‐thin 2D materials have great potential as electrodes for micro‐supercapacitors (MSCs) because of their facile ion transport channels. Here, a high‐precision controllable photonic‐synthesis strategy that provided 1 inch wafer‐scale ultra‐thin film arrays of alloyed WxMo2xSy with sulfur vacancies and expanded interlayer (13.2 Å, twice of 2H MoS2) is reported. This strategy regulates the nucleation and growth of transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) on the picosecond or even femtosecond scale, which induces Mo–W alloying, interlayer expansion, and sulfur loss. Therefore, the diffusion barrier of WxMo2xSy is reduced, with charge transfer and ion diffusion enhancing. The as‐prepared symmetric MSCs with the size of 100 × 100 µm2 achieve ultrahigh specific capacitance (242.57 mF cm−2 and 242567.83 F cm−3), and energy density (21.56 Wh cm−3 with power density of 485.13 W cm3). The established synthesis strategy fits numerous materials, which provides a universal method for the flexible synthesis of electrodes in microenergy devices.
Cranial anatomy and phylogenetic affinities of Bolosaurus major, with new information on the unique bolosaurid feeding apparatus and evolution of the impedance‐matching ear
Authors: Jenkins Kelsey M. , Foster William , Napoli James G. , Meyer Dalton L. , Bever Gabriel S. , Bhullar Bhart‐Anjan S.
Published: July 2024

Resolving the phylogenetic relationships of early amniotes, in particular stem reptiles, remains a difficult problem. Three‐dimensional morphological analysis of well‐preserved stem‐reptile specimens can reveal important anatomical data and clarify regions of phylogeny. Here, we present the first thorough description of the unusual early Permian stem reptile Bolosaurus major, including the first comprehensive description of a bolosaurid braincase. We describe previously obscured details of the palate, allowing for insight into bolosaurid feeding mechanics. Aspects of the rostrum, palate, mandible, and neurocranium suggest that B. major had a particularly strong bite. We additionally found B. major has a surprisingly slender stapes, similar to that of the middle Permian stem reptile Macroleter poezicus, which may suggest enhanced hearing abilities compared to other Paleozoic amniotes (e.g., captorhinids). We incorporated our new anatomical information into a large phylogenetic matrix (150 OTUs, 590 characters) to explore the relationship of Bolosauridae among stem reptiles. Our analyses generally recovered a paraphyletic “Parareptilia,” and found Bolosauridae to diverge after Captorhinidae + Araeoscelidia. We also included B. major within a smaller matrix (10 OTUs, 27 characters) designed to explore the interrelationships of Bolosauridae and found all species of Bolosaurus to be monophyletic. While reptile relationships still require further investigation, our phylogeny suggests repeated evolution of impedance‐matching ears in Paleozoic stem reptiles.
Cobalt Nanoparticles Catalyzed N‐Heterocycles Synthesis via Acceptorless Dehydrogenative Coupling
Authors: Ren Changyue , Chen Shuiyan , Yuan Zeli , Fu Rui , Cui Yanbin , Ma Zhuang , Li Weizuo , Li Xinmin
Published: July 2024

The acceptorless dehydrogenation reaction is a sustainable and atom‐economical methodology in organic synthesis, resulting in the byproducts of only hydrogen or water. Herein, a robust Co−Si/CN catalyst (derived from ZIF@SiO2 composite) has been synthesized through a one‐step assembly process via pyrolysis and etching. This catalyst has been employed for the acceptorless dehydrogenative coupling of 2‐aminoalcohols with secondary alcohols, enabling efficient conversion of various substrates into desired quinoline or pyridine derivatives with a yield of up to 94 %.
Torque ripple suppression of open‐winding permanent magnet synchronous motor with common DC bus based on field circuit coupling method
Authors: Xie Shirui , Zhang Wendong , Feng Xinpeng , Zhang Wei , Gu Pingping , Lei Ziqi , Zhao Chaohui
Published: July 2024

To improve the torque control accuracy of an open‐winding permanent magnet synchronous motor with common DC bus, this paper studies a complex vector proportional–integral (CVPI) controller with the help of a proportional–integral (PI) controller to solve the problem of torque ripple caused by the current harmonics caused by the back electromotive force of the motor and the nonlinearity of the inverter. The controller has a higher gain at the center frequency and can realize the tracking of the alternating current (AC) quantity without static error. Therefore, it is used for the tracking control of current harmonics. According to the different characteristics of the dq0‐axis, complex j is realized by orthogonal characteristics and all‐pass filter in the dq‐axis and 0‐axis, respectively. At the same time, with the help of Ansys, Simplorer, and Matlab/Simulink tools, the co‐simulation platform for an open‐winding motor is established, and the motor parameters are optimized. The simulation and experimental results show that the control strategy based on CVPI has stronger harmonic suppression ability, smaller torque ripple, and better dynamic performance than proportional‐resonance (PR) control.
PP2A catalytic subunit alpha is critically required for CD8+ T‐cell homeostasis and antibacterial responses
Authors: Zhou Xian , Li Meilu , Ai Minji , Li Yanfeng , Zhu Xingxing , Hansen Michael J. , Zhong Jun , Johnson Kenneth L. , Zenka Roman , Pandey Akhilesh , Pease Larry R. , Zeng Hu
Published: July 2024

Although the functions of tyrosine phosphatases in T‐cell biology have been extensively studied, our knowledge on the contribution of serine/threonine phosphatases in T cells remains poor. Protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A) is one of the most abundantly expressed serine/threonine phosphatases. It is important in thymocyte development and CD4+ T‐cell differentiation. Utilizing a genetic model in which its catalytic subunit alpha isoform (PP2A Cα) is deleted in T cells, we investigated its contribution to CD8+ T‐cell homeostasis and effector functions. Our results demonstrate that T‐cell intrinsic PP2A Cα is critically required for CD8+ T‐cell homeostasis in secondary lymphoid organs and intestinal mucosal site. Importantly, PP2A Cα–deficient CD8+ T cells exhibit reduced proliferation and survival. CD8+ T‐cell antibacterial response is strictly dependent on PP2A Cα. Expression of Bcl2 transgene rescues CD8+ T‐cell homeostasis in spleens, but not in intestinal mucosal site, nor does it restore defective antibacterial responses. Finally, proteomics and phosphoproteomics analyses reveal potential targets dependent on PP2A Cα, including mTORC1 and AKT. Thus, PP2A Cα is a key modulator of CD8+ T‐cell homeostasis and effector functions.
Occurrence and Environmental Risk Assessment of Contaminants of Emerging Concern in Brazilian Surface Waters
Authors: Oliveira Thiessa M. A. , Mansano Adrislaine S. , Holanda Carlos A. , Pinto Tiago S. , Reis Jonas B. , Azevedo Eduardo B. , Verbinnen Raphael T. , Viana José Lucas , Franco Teresa C. R. S. , Vieira Eny M.
Published: July 2024

We investigated the occurrence and the environmental risk of eight contaminants of emerging concern (CECs; acetaminophen, naproxen, diclofenac, methylparaben, 17β-estradiol, sulfathiazole, sulfadimethoxine, and sulfamethazine) in three Brazilian water bodies, namely, the Monjolinho River Basin (São Paulo State), the Mogi Guaçu River (São Paulo State), and the Itapecuru River (Maranhão State) in three sampling campaigns. The CECs were only quantified in surface water samples collected at the Monjolinho River Basin. Acetaminophen, naproxen, and methylparaben were detected in the range of <200 to 575.9 ng L−1, <200 to 224.7 ng L−1, and <200 to 303.6 ng L−1, respectively. The detection frequencies of the three measured compounds were between 33% and 67%. The highest concentrations of CECs were associated with intense urbanization and untreated sewage discharge. Furthermore, CEC concentrations were significantly correlated with total organic carbon, electrical conductivity, and dissolved oxygen levels, suggesting that domestic pollution from urban areas is an important source in the distribution of CECs in the Monjolinho River Basin. The environmental risk assessment indicated a high risk for acetaminophen (risk quotient [RQ] values between 2.1 and 5.8), a medium risk for naproxen (RQs between 0.6 and 0.7), and a low risk for methylparaben (RQs < 0.1) to the freshwater biota of the Monjolinho River Basin. Our findings show potential threats of CECs in Brazilian water bodies, especially in vulnerable areas, and reinforce the need for improvements in environmental regulations to include monitoring and control of these compounds in aquatic systems. Environ Toxicol Chem 2024;43:2199–2210. © 2024 SETAC
A surface registration‐based approach for assessment of 3D angles in guided growth interventions in the growing femur
Authors: Gholinezhad Shima , Rasmussen John , Halloum Ahmed , Kold Søren , Rahbek Ole
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Postoperative assessment of surgical interventions for correcting femoral rotational deformities necessitates a comparative analysis of femoral rotation pre‐ and post‐surgery. While 2D assessment methods are commonly employed, ongoing debate surrounds their accuracy and reliability. To address the limitations associated with 2D analysis, we introduced and validated a 3D model‐based analysis method for quantifying the angular and rotational impact of corrective rotational osteotomy in the growing femur.

Methods

The method is based on surface registration of the pre‐ and post‐intervention 3D femoral models. To this end, 3D triangulated surface models were generated using CT images for the right femurs of 11 skeletally immature pigs, each scanned at two distinct time points with a 12‐week interval between scans. In our validation procedures, femoral corrective rotational osteotomy of the post‐12‐week femur was simulated at varying angles of 5, 10, 15 and 20 degrees in three dimensions. Subsequently, a surface 3D/3D registration‐based approach was applied to determine the 3D femoral angulation and rotation between the two models to assess the method's detection accuracy of the predefined twist angles as ground truth references.

Results

The results document the precision and accuracy of the registration‐based method in evaluating rotation angles. Consistently high accuracy was observed across all angles, with an accuracy rate of 92.97% and a coefficient of variance of 8.14%.

Conclusion

This study has showcased the potential for improving post‐operative assessments with significant implications for experimental studies evaluating the effects of correcting rotational deformities in the growing femur.

Level of Evidence

Not applicable.
The impact of gut microbiota on morbidities in preterm infants
Authors: Lai Mei‐Yin , Chang Yin‐Hsi , Lee Chien‐Chung ,   Neonatal Microbiome Outcomes Study Group (NEMO)
Published: July 2024

The gut microbiota undergoes substantial development from birth, and its development in the initial years of life has a potentially lifelong effect on the health of the individual. However, various factors can disrupt the development of the gut microbiota, leading to a condition known as dysbiosis, particularly in preterm infants. Current studies involving adults have suggested that the gut microbiota not only influences the gut but also has multidimensional effects on remote organs; these pathways are often referred to as the gut–organ axis. Imbalance of the gut microbiota may lead to the development of multiple diseases. Recent studies have revealed that gut dysbiosis in preterm infants may cause several acute morbidities—such as necrotizing enterocolitis, late‐onset sepsis, bronchopulmonary dysplasia, and retinopathy of prematurity—and it may also influence long‐term outcomes including neurodevelopment and somatic growth. This review mainly presents the existing evidence regarding the relationships between the gut microbiota and these morbidities in preterm infants and explores the role of the gut–organ axis in these morbidities. This paper thus offers insights into the future perspectives on microbiota interventions for promoting the health of preterm infants.
Clusterin expression and distribution in spermatozoa as predictor of male fertility
Authors: Hernández‐Herrador María , Marilina García‐Aranda , Luisa Hortas María , Carrillo‐Lucena Silvia , Caracuel Zaira , Castilla‐Alcalá José Antonio , Martín‐García Desirée , Redondo Maximino
Published: July 2024

Clusterin (CLU), one of the main glycoproteins in mammalian semen and the male reproductive tract, plays a role in spermatogenesis and sperm maturation. Given the poor reliability of classic seminal studies in determining male‐fertilizing capacity and the differences in CLU abundance between normal and abnormal spermatozoa, we investigated the potential value of mRNA‐CLU levels and protein distribution in spermatozoa as markers of sperm quality and predictors of male fertility. This multicenter study included 90 patients undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment with their partners, and a control group of 36 fertile males with normal seminograms. We assessed the relationship between IVF treatment outcomes, seminogram variables, mRNA‐CLU levels by quantitative real‐time‐PCR and CLU distribution by immunostaining in spermatozoa. Our study reveals CLU staining in the acrosome (p = 0.002, OR 14.8, 95% CI: 2.7–79.3) and mRNA‐CLU levels (p = 0.005, OR 10.85, 95% CI: 2.0–57.4) as independent risk factors for pregnancy failure, irrespective of traditional seminogram variables. Additionally, our results suggest that CLU, and specially its secreted isoform, constitutes a component of the protein pool that human spermatozoa can produce during its maturation process, exhibiting a variable abundance and distribution in spermatozoa from fertile men compared to those in patients with altered seminograms and infertile patients with normal seminograms. Our study is the first to identify mRNA‐CLU levels and CLU immunostaining in the spermatozoa acrosome as independent risk factors for pregnancy failure, with distribution patterns correlating with sperm maturity and seminogram alterations.
Possible sex and racial disparities in myasthenia gravis care
Authors: Suresh Shriya , Watanabe Maya , Reynolds Evan L. , Callaghan Brian C.
Published: July 2024

Introduction/Aims

Given the importance of early diagnosis and treatment of myasthenia gravis (MG), it is critical to understand disparities in MG care. We aimed to determine if there are any differences in testing, treatment, and/or access to neurologists for patients of varying sex and race/ethnicity with MG.

Methods

We used a nationally representative healthcare claims database of privately insured individuals (2001–2018) to identify incident cases of MG using a validated definition. Diagnostic testing, steroid‐sparing agents, intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG), plasma exchange (PLEX), and thymectomy were defined using drug names or CPT codes. Steroid use was defined using AHFS class codes. We also determined whether an individual had a visit to a neurologist and the time between primary care and neurologist visits. Logistic regression determined associations between sex and race/ethnicity and testing, treatments, and access to neurologists.

Results

Female patients were less likely to get a computed tomography (CT) chest (odds ratio (OR) 0.73, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.64–0.83), receive steroids (OR: 0.85, 95% CI: 0.75–0.97), steroid‐sparing agents (OR: 0.84, 95% CI: 0.72–0.97), and IVIG or PLEX (OR: 0.80, 95% CI: 0.67–0.95). Black patients were less likely to receive steroids (OR: 0.78, 95% CI: 0.63–0.96). No significant disparities were seen in access to neurologists.

Discussion

We found healthcare disparities in MG treatment with female and Black patients receiving less treatment than men and those of other races/ethnicities. Further research and detailed assessments accounting for individual patient factors are needed to confirm these apparent disparities.
Numerical solution of convected wave equation in free field using artificial boundary method
Authors: Wang Xin , Wang Jihong , Di Yana , Zhang Jiwei
Published: July 2024

In this article, we propose two procedures focusing on the computation of the time‐dependent convected wave equation in a free field with a uniform background flow. Both procedures are based on a framework, expended from Du et al. (SIAM J. Sci. Comput. 40 (2018), A1430–A1445.), of constructing the Dirichlet‐to‐Dirichlet (DtD)‐type discrete absorbing boundary conditions (ABCs). The first procedure is dedicated to reducing the infinite problem into a finite problem by a direct application of the framework on the finite difference discretization of the convected wave equation. However, the presence of convection terms makes the stability analysis hard to implement, which motivates us to develop the second procedure. First, the convected wave equation is transformed into a standard wave equation by using the Prandtl‐Glauert‐Lorentz transformation. After that, we obtain the DtD‐type ABC by using the above framework, and on this basis, derive an equivalent Dirichlet‐to‐Neumann‐type ABCs, which makes stability and convergence analysis easy to be obtained by the classical energy method. The effectiveness and comparison of these two procedures are investigated through numerical experiments.
Topological Phase Transition and Edge States with Tunable Localization in the Cyclic Four‐Mode Optical System
Authors: Zhang Chun‐Lin , Hu Kai‐Xin , Zhang Jie , Cao Ji , Zhang Shou , Wang Hong‐Fu
Published: July 2024

A cyclic four‐mode optical system is investigated with anti‐parity‐time symmetry. The energy spectra is analyzed and reveal the topological phase transition under different parameter regimes. In the topological phase regions, it is found that the degree of localization of the edge states can be tuned by modulating the vertical hopping strength. Moreover, it is observed that the emergence of nonzero energy edge states and the expansion of the topological phase regions. Meanwhile, it is found that the nonzero energy edge states still adhere to the bulk boundary correspondence, and which can be demonstrated by the bulk bandgap. Zero and nonzero energy edge states are also characterized by Zak phase and hidden Chern number. These results enrich the study of topological phases and edge states in non‐Hermitian optical systems.
Technology is only as good as your constituent buy‐in
Authors: Miles David
Published: July 2024

Public safety has come a long way in the past few years in terms of technological advancements, and technology is increasingly being used by public safety departments on college campuses. Some of the technology has greatly assisted departments as we now have alarms, surveillance cameras, card access, and other types of technology that make it easier to keep campuses secure. This technology helps to prevent crimes but can also help in identifying individuals of interest when any incidents occur.
Path combines passions for business, education, technology
Authors: Allarakhia Hawa
Published: July 2024

Catherine Coe's journey combined her passions for business and education and led her into a career in higher education. She's now Director of Competency Development and Program Evaluation at the Warrington College of Business at the University of Florida. The following excerpt of our discussion has been edited for space and clarity.
Performance Analyses of Sentinel-3A and Sentinel-3B Over Lake Issyk Kul (Kyrgyzstan)
Authors: Schöne T. , Illigner J. , Zubovich A. , Zech C. , Stolarczuk N. , Sharshebaev A. , Borisov M.
Published: July 2024

As part of the European Copernicus program the radar altimetry satellites Sentinel-3A and Sentinel-3B were launched in 2016, and 2018 respectively. The satellites are one of the first operating in SAR mode allowing a much better height retrieval over the ocean and inland waters. The mission also benefits from the Open-Loop Tracking Command mode, where an a-priory elevation mask improves the performance over inland waters. This study analyses the performance and trends of the OCEAN and OCOG retracker functions in both, Ku and C band over Lake Issyk Kul. We make use of GNSS-derived lake profiles and information from shore-based tide gauges to analyze uninterrupted data series. We found biases of 2 ± 41 mm for Sentinel-3A and −45 ± 37 mm for Sentinel-3B for the OCEAN retracker and 307 ± 29 mm for Sentinel-3A and 345 ± 22 mm for Sentinel-3B using the OCOG retracker. Moreover, our results give evidence to small drifts for both satellites and also for both retracker.
Reconnecting Students and Academics in Post-pandemic U.S.-China Relations
Authors: Lewis Margaret K.
Published: July 2024

People-to-People ties between the United States and China were already rocky prior to the emergence of COVID-19. The spike in bilateral tensions, both because of and coinciding with the pandemic, combined with China’s isolation under its “Zero COVID” policy to create a nearly impenetrable barrier between the countries. Today, public health risks have largely abated, but political risks have not. People in the United States and China are seeking ways to reinvigorate ties while mitigating concerns about vulnerabilities inherent in citizens from each country visiting the other. This chapter sets the backdrop of academic relations prior to the pandemic, addresses the pandemic’s outbreak to China’s end of its “Zero COVID” policy in late 2022, and examines efforts to rekindle academic connections despite the risks involved.
The Pandemic and the Sino-U.S. Echo Chamber Effect
Authors: Wei Da , Haixuan Li
Published: July 2024

From the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in Wuhan, China, in January 2020, to the reopening of China in early 2023, personal interactions between China and the United States virtually ground to a halt over the three-year period (Sliver et al. 2021). This was unlike anything we had seen in the past five decades of Sino-U.S. relations since President Nixon’s visit to China in 1972. The lack of in-person contact made it easy for politicians, academics, and media experts to overlook finer details when assessing and discussing each other.
Robust and Adaptive AI for Digital Pathology
Authors: Benz Michaela , Kuritcyn Petr , Kletzander Rosalie , Bruns Volker
Published: July 2024

The digitization of pathology opens up a wide field of applications that can be supported by AI-based analysis like the detection of tumors or a quantitative assessment of tissue composition. This contribution demonstrates possible ways on how to approach challenges in digital pathology like the robustness against data heterogeneity or the detection of out-of-distribution data. Moreover, the principle of prototypical few-shot models is explained, which can be adapted to new tasks with only a few labeled examples without any retraining of the underlying model parameters. In this chapter we show the suitability of a prototypical few-shot classification model for tumor detection in two different organs and a prototypical few-shot segmentation model for tumor composition analysis. Finally, a workflow for the creation of a dedicated AI model by only providing a few annotations within the MIKAIA® software of Fraunhofer IIS is presented
AI-assisted Condition Monitoring and Failure Analysis for Industrial Wireless Systems
Authors: Wetzker Ulf , Richter Anna , Jain Vineeta , Wicht Jakob
Published: July 2024

With the increasing proliferation of wireless devices and Internet-of- Things (IoT) applications in various fields, such as patient monitoring, vehicle-to everything (V2X) communication and industrial automation, there is a growing significance in developing robust methods and tools for evaluating and predicting link quality, monitoring information flow, as well as conducting failure analysis. This is particularly important in safety-critical industrial IoT (IIoT) environments such as smart factories, where challenging signal propagation conditions and interference from coexisting wireless technologies can severely impact network performance and application reliability. This contribution provides a comprehensive analysis of coexistence issues in industrial IIoT networks and highlights the complexities and challenges associated with performing failure analysis on a large scale. The necessity of using data-driven methods in the development of efficient and user-friendly failure analysis systems is discussed and the challenges regarding required datasets are highlighted.
XXL-CT Dataset Segmentation
Authors: Gruber Roland , Rüger Steffen , Ottenweller Moritz , Uhlmann Norman , Gerth Stefan
Published: July 2024

The objective of XXL-CT dataset segmentation is to use machine learning to virtually divide 3D volumes of complete vehicles, acquired through XXL computer tomography, into their individual components. Gathering labeled training data for this type of data is challenging. Previously, entity classification from XXL-CT data required significant manual effort involving over 120 employees for several months. This chapter shows how to develop entity segmentation procedures which significantly reduce the time from measurement to virtual analysis. The most time-consuming part of the data processing chain is currently the segmentation of individual assemblies, especially when dealing with overlapping metal sheets. We aim to demonstrate the transferability of trained networks to different XXL-CT vehicle data, taking into account the large shape variations of different metal sheets and their contact, weld or rivet points. Challenges include low data quality which is affected by acquisition and reconstruction artifacts, a dataset size of up to 1.7 terabytes, and the large number of individual instances to be segmented and their interrelationships which must be taken into account. This contribution considers three major aspects: The segmentation of CT datasets by means of neural networks, the development of solutions for the annotation of XXL-CT data, and the transferability of the trained network.
The Role of Uncertainty Quantification for Trustworthy AI
Authors: Deuschel Jessica , Foltyn Andreas , Roscher Karsten , Scheele Stephan
Published: July 2024

The development of AI systems involves a series of steps, including data acquisition and preprocessing, model selection, training, evaluation, and deployment. However, each of these steps involves certain assumptions that introduce inherent uncertainty, which can result in inaccurate outcomes and reduced confidence in the system. To enhance confidence and comply with the EU AI Act, we recommend using Uncertainty Quantification methods to estimate the belief in the correctness of a model’s output. To make these methods more accessible, we provide insights into the possible sources of uncertainty and offer an overview of the different available methods. We categorize these methods based on when they are used in the process, accounting for various application requirements. We distinguish between three types: data-based, architecture-modifying and post-hoc methods, and share our personal experiences with each.
Fostering Coherence in Finnish Teacher Education: The MAP Model
Authors: Metsäpelto Riitta-Leena , Warinowski Anu , Poikkeus Anna-Maija , Mikkilä-Erdmann Mirjamaija
Published: July 2024

This chapter discusses the process of fostering coherence in teacher education in Finland through a teacher competence model: the Multidimensional Adapted Process Model of Teaching (Metsäpelto et al., 2022). Originally developed to facilitate nationally unified student selection for initial teacher education, the MAP model represents a collective interpretation of teaching quality made by an expert panel from seven Finnish universities organizing teacher education. It encompasses the current evidence base and prevailing discourses on what teachers ought to know and be able to do. In this chapter, we examine recent trends in the Finnish educational landscape and present the argument that the MAP model holds promise for enhancing aspects of coherence within teacher education in both respect to its goals, emphases and shared guidelines as well as its implemented curricula across different units. Additionally, we present findings from an analysis comparing the curricula of primary school teacher education programs (grades 1 to 6) in two universities, which provides evidence of systemic coherence. The chapter concludes by offering a critical reflection on the implications of adopting a generic teacher competence model for fostering coherence in teacher education.
The impact of non-invasive manual and ultrasonographic reduction for incarcerated obturator hernia: a retrospective cohort study and systematic review
Authors: Kobayashi Fuyumi , Watanabe Jun , Koizumi Masaru , Yamaguchi Hironori , Sata Naohiro
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Non-invasive reduction in patients with incarcerated obturator hernias is an emergency surgery alternative. There are two non-invasive reduction types: manual and ultrasonographic (ultrasound-guided and ultrasound-assisted reduction). However, the impact of ultrasound guidance on manual reduction has not been adequately evaluated. We aimed to compare non-invasive ultrasound reduction with manual reduction in patients with incarcerated obturator hernias.

Methods

We searched MEDLINE, Cochrane Central Library, Embase, Ichushi Web, ClinicalTrial.gov, and ICTRP for relevant studies. The primary outcomes were success and bowel resection rates. We performed a subgroup analysis between ultrasound-guided and ultrasound-assisted reductions. This study was registered in PROSPERO (CRD 42,024,498,295).

Results

We included six studies (112 patients, including 12 from our cohort). The success rate was 78% (69 of 88 cases) with ultrasonographic reduction and 33% (8 of 24 cases) with manual reduction. The success rate was higher with ultrasonographic than with manual reduction. Subgroup analysis revealed no significant difference between ultrasonography-assisted (76%) and ultrasonography-guided (80%) reductions (p = 0.60). Non-invasive reductions were predominantly successful within 72 h of onset, although durations extended up to 216 h in one case. Among the successful reduction cases, emergency surgery and bowel resection were necessary in two cases after 72 h from onset. Bowel resection was required in 48% (12 of 25), where the non-invasive reduction was unsuccessful within 72 h of confirmed onset.

Conclusions

Ultrasonographic reduction can be a primary treatment option for patients with obturator hernias within 72 h of onset by emergency physicians and surgeons on call. Future prospective studies are needed to evaluate ultrasonographic reduction’s impact.