bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cosensitization of a Tetraethylene Glycol‐Substituted Unsymmetrical Zinc Phthalocyanine Sensitized Solar Cells with D131 Auxiliary Dye Exhibited Enhanced Efficiency
Authors: Kute Suraj E. , Ketkar Rohit N. , Jagushte Kaustubh U. , Sawant Harshada L. , Shah Aryan , Periyasamy Ganga , Choudhury Sharmistha Dutta , Sadhukhan Nabanita
Published: November 2024

An asymmetric zinc phthalocyanine dye (ZnPcT3C), bearing three tetraethylene glycol donor groups and one carboxylic acid anchoring group, was synthesized as a photosensitizer dye for dye‐sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). The tetraethylene glycol (TEG), consisting of four ethoxy units, works as an amphiphilic long‐chain donor group that greatly helped in reducing the molecular aggregation. Carboxylic acid group, on the other hand, an acceptor, together with TEG in ZnPcT3C functions as a ‘push–pullʼ system suitable for DSSCs. Absorption spectra of ZnPcT3C in DMSO showed a strong sharp Q band in the infrared region 600–700 nm with (λmax = 682 nm) and a less intense soret band appeared in the region 300–400 nm with λmax = 340 nm. The zinc phthalocyanine (ZnPcT3C) exhibited molar extinction coefficient (ε) of 72,727 L mol−1cm−1. The emission was observed at λem = 695 nm upon excitation at 650 nm and exhibited a fluorescence decay of 2.82 ns. The ZnPcT3C dye sensitised solar cell (c = 1 mM) exhibited the power conversion efficiency (η) of 3.52% in chloroform in I−/I3 electrolyte under simulated 100% brightness. Cosensitization of ZnPcT3C with another auxiliary dye D131 in 1:1 ratio in a cocktail‐type DSSC attained the power conversion efficiency of twice as high as η = 6.27% in an identical condition. A mixture of D131 (λmax = 470 nm) dye with the ZnPcT3C phthalocyanine harvests sunlight across the visible spectra, enabling DSSCs to attain a large photocurrent and photovoltage, enhancing power conversion efficiency.
Composite Gel Polymer Electrolyte for High‐Performance Flexible Zinc‐Air Batteries
Authors: Liu Yifan , Bildan Denise , Zhuge Xiangqun , Liu Tong , Zhong Haoyang , Luo Zhihong , Lei Hanhui , Luo Kun , Ren Yurong , Bayati Maryam , Liu Xiaoteng
Published: November 2024

Enhancing ionic conductivity and electrolyte uptake is of significance for gel polymer electrolytes (GPEs) for flexible zinc‐air batteries (FZABs). Herein, a composite mesoporous silica/polyacrylamide (5 wt.% mPAM) GPE is constructed with comparable ionic conductivity to aqueous electrolytes, where the ionic conductivity is up to 337 mS cm−1, and the weight loss after exposing in air 72 h is less than 18%, owing to the excellent electrolyte uptake and continuous ion migration network provided by the mesoporous silica fillers. When used as a quasi‐solid‐electrolyte, the rechargeable FZAB exhibited high electrochemical performance and structural stability, where the peak power density is up to 162.8 mW cm−2, and the initial charge–discharge potential gap is as low as 0.62 V, resulting in a long lifespan exceeding 110 h, showcasing the combination of high durability, cost‐effectiveness and easy production for practical applications.
A Photoelectric Synergistic Flexible Solid Slippery Surface for All‐Day Anti‐Icing/Frosting
Authors: Chai Ziyuan , Teng Ziyi , Guo Pu , He Yueran , Zhao Di , Zuo Xiaobiao , Liu Kesong , Jiang Lei , Heng Liping
Published: November 2024

The accumulation of ice on surface has caused great harm to lots of fields such as transportation or aerospace. Nowadays, various equipment or tools used in low‐temperature environments, which face the risk of interface icing, usually have irregular shapes. Traditional rigid anti‐icing materials are difficult to meet practical application requirements. Thus, it is crucial to develop flexible anti‐icing materials that can be applied to various shape surfaces (curved surfaces, flat surfaces). In this paper, a photoelectric synergistic flexible solid slippery surface (FSSS) is prepared by using flexible basalt fiberglass cloth, flexible copper foil, flexible polyurethane/carbon nanotubes mixture, and flexible solid lubricant (the mixture of coconut wax and coconut oil). Even under harsh conditions of the temperature as low as −80 °C, the FSSS exhibits excellent all‐day anti/de‐icing performance whether on flat or curved surface. Moreover, the FSSS shows long‐term stability both on flat and curved surface: situated in air for 60 days, submerged in water for 60 days, kept in acid environment (pH 1) and base environment (pH 13) for 30 days. Besides, the FSSS can also achieve self‐healing function under −80 °C. This flexible surface provides a novel approach for de‐icing/frosting of multi‐shaped objects in the future.
Effect of Magnesium Modification on Inclusions and Carbide in As‐Cast 21‐4N Valve Steel
Authors: Wu Qiang , Li Yutang , Zhu Haoran , Zhang Lu , Ji Dengping , Yan Daocong , Liu Bin , Fu Jianxun
Published: November 2024

To investigate the impact of magnesium on the inclusions, carbides, and microstructure of the 21‐4N valve steel, the magnesium modification industrial experiment is carried out. Optical microscope, a scanning electron microscope with an energy‐dispersive spectrometer, thermodynamic calculation, and a 3D etching method are used. In the results, it is shown that the oxide inclusions in steel modifies from Al2O3–MnO to MgO–MnO–SiO2 after magnesium modification, which presents a more dispersed size distribution. The primary precipitates in the steel remain as massive carbide M23C6 and lamellar precipitate γ + M23C6, and the maximum size of large carbides and lamellar precipitates in the magnesium‐modified steel decreases from 15.1 to 13.4 μm and from 98.8 to 68.8 μm, respectively. Furthermore, Mg‐containing inclusions act as more heterogeneous nucleation cores for austenite precipitation, resulting in the refinement of austenite grain and a reduction in the last‐to‐solidify region. The reduction in the last‐to‐solidify region limits the growth space of carbides and contributes to their size refinement.
Component‐section transverse‐pressure effect on internal damage and failure mode of post‐installed rebar
Authors: Yang Ailin , Zhao Ning‐yu , Song Yi , Song Shuyi , Liu Hao , Yi Bo
Published: November 2024

A post‐installed rebar (PIR) is commonly used to establish structural connections between new components and existing structures, such as structural member extensions or concrete layer overlays in the construction/strengthening/retrofitting of buildings or bridges. In joint connections, the anchored PIR system always bears a non‐negligible compression in the component section, which is derived from the loads and self‐weight and has a confinement effect on the anchorage zone. However, excessive pressure can result in the fracture of the adhesive component, thereby leading to brittle failure in the PIR system. Owing to the important role of the adhesive component in the PIR system, this study is focused on the internal damage to the PIR system, and the effect of transverse pressure on the failure modes is investigated. This study comprises an experimental investigation of the failures of a PIR system under transverse pressure and a description of the internal damages based on the test results. Finally, an elastic analysis was established to explain the internal cracking and investigate the stress distribution in the PIR system. The tests on 34 pull‐out specimens showed two typical failures for the PIR system under transverse pressure (adhesive–rebar [A–R] interface failure and adhesive fracture failure). The A–R interface failure resulted from the shearing failure in the adhesive component, while the adhesive fracture failure resulted from the propagation of longitudinal and transverse cracks. The elastic analysis indicated that cracking in the concrete and adhesive component was dominated by circumferential stress, and the rebar rib direction and adhesive component thickness had a significant influence on the stress distribution. Based on this, some suggestions for anchorage design were made.
Association mapping and genomic prediction for processing and end‐use quality traits in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)
Authors: Gill Harsimardeep S. , Conley Emily , Brault Charlotte , Dykes Linda , Wiersma Jochum C. , Frels Katherine , Anderson James A.
Published: November 2024

End‐use and processing traits in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) are crucial for varietal development but are often evaluated only in the advanced stages of the breeding program due to the amount of grain needed and the labor‐intensive phenotyping assays. Advances in genomic resources have provided new tools to address the selection for these complex traits earlier in the breeding process. We used association mapping to identify key variants underlying various end‐use quality traits and evaluate the usefulness of genomic prediction for these traits in hard red spring wheat from the Northern United States. A panel of 383 advanced breeding lines and cultivars representing the diversity of the University of Minnesota wheat breeding program was genotyped using the Illumina 90K single nucleotide polymorphism array and evaluated in multilocation trials using standard assessments of end‐use quality. Sixty‐three associations for grain or flour characteristics, mixograph, farinograph, and baking traits were identified. The majority of these associations were mapped in the vicinity of glutenin/gliadin or other known loci. In addition, a putative novel multi‐trait association was identified on chromosome 6AL, and candidate gene analysis revealed eight genes of interest. Further, genomic prediction had a high predictive ability (PA) for mixograph and farinograph traits, with PA up to 0.62 and 0.50 in cross‐validation and forward prediction, respectively. The deployment of 46 markers from GWAS to predict dough‐rheology traits yielded low to moderate PA for various traits. The results of this study suggest that genomic prediction for end‐use traits in early generations can be effective for mixograph and farinograph assays but not baking assays.
Seasonal Influence on the Impact of Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG) on Testicular Haemodynamics and Hormonal Responses in Canines: A Comparative Study
Authors: Nadali Behnam , Abdous Arman , Karami Nima , Jokar Mohammad , Amarloie Ourang Ataie , Farhoodi Mehran
Published: November 2024

Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is widely used to treat reproductive dysfunction by enhancing testicular blood flow and stimulating hormonal activity. This study investigates the seasonal variations in the response to hCG treatment in male dogs, focusing on its effects on testicular blood flow and plasma concentrations of testosterone and oestrogen. Conducted across different seasons (spring, summer, fall and winter), the study utilised colour Doppler ultrasonography to measure testicular haemodynamics and analysed hormonal levels at multiple time points post‐hCG injection. The findings revealed that the response to hCG is modulated by seasonal factors, with significant variations in both blood flow and hormone levels. A significant negative relationship was indicated between testicular blood flow and testosterone levels, particularly during spring and summer. These results suggest that seasonality should be considered when administering hCG for reproductive treatments in canines.
The effect of interhospital transfer on pediatric burn injury mortality in a resource‐limited setting
Authors: Shah Sonam J. , Gondwe Jotamu , An Selena , Hester Tori E. , Charles Anthony
Published: November 2024

Introduction

The World Health Organization's burn mortality estimate is 180,000 annually. Ninety‐five percent of all mortality caused by fire‐related burns worldwide occurs in low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMICs). Prior studies have shown that transfer status (direct transfer from an injury scene to a trauma center vs. indirect transfer from another health facility) affects patient outcomes. We evaluated the effect of interhospital transfer on burn mortality.

Methods

We analyzed a burn database of pediatric patients admitted to the Kamuzu Central Hospital (KCH) burn unit in Lilongwe, Malawi. We performed a bivariate analysis based on their transfer status and mortality and a logistic regression analysis to determine the effect of transfer status on mortality after burn injury.

Results

A total of 2301 patients were analyzed, with 1095 (47.6%) being in the transfer cohort from referring hospitals. The median age was 3 years (IQR 1–4). The transfer cohort had more patients presenting to the hospital more than 48 h after injury. Upon multivariate logistic regression, controlling for pertinent variables, including time to presentation, burn‐injured patients in the transfer cohort had increased odds of mortality (OR 2.26, 95% CI 1.22–4.19, and p = 0.01) compared to patients who were not transferred. The predictive probabilities of burn mortality by TBSA showed significant differences in mortality based on transfer status at TBSA between 20% and 80%.

Conclusion

Ensuring district hospitals and other primary health care centers in resource‐limited settings are sufficiently equipped to provide initial burn resuscitation and care may decrease mortality rates associated with transferred patients.
Assessing predictions from optimal egg theory for an ectotherm relative to habitat duration
Authors: Davenport Jon M. , Feltmann Andrew , Fishback LeeAnn , Hossack Blake R.
Published: November 2024

Optimal egg size theory predicts females must balance investment per offspring to maximize fitness based on environmental quality. In wetlands, environmental quality can be duration of water and predator presence. Ectotherms using habitats that dry or contain predators are likely under selection to optimize offspring production. We measured reproductive output of wood frogs (Rana sylvatica) in 30 wetlands in Subarctic Canada, where rapid climate changes are accelerating wetland drying. We predicted wetlands with short hydroperiods would have larger ova, smaller clutch sizes, and larger ovum‐to‐clutch‐sizes than wetlands with long hydroperiods or with fish predators. We found partial support for predictions with larger ova in habitats with short hydroperiods and no fish but no evidence of larger clutch sizes in wetlands with fish. Our study implicates changes to wetland hydroperiod as a source of plasticity affecting one aspect of reproductive effort (ovum size) in an ectotherm but not another (clutch size).
Progressive Waves in Lossless and Lossy Fluids
Authors: Blackstock David T. , Hamilton Mark F. , Pierce Allan D.
Published: November 2024

This chapter analyzes nonlinear progressive waves, and primarily plane waves. Following presentation of exact implicit solutions for ideal fluids, approximate explicit solutions are obtained for harmonic generation in lossless and lossy fluids. The Rankine-Hugoniot relations are derived for shocks of arbitrary strength, followed by their quadratic approximation for weak shocks. The history and solutions of the Burgers equation are presented, including the rise time and thickness of weak shocks. Progressive plane-wave solutions based on weak-shock theory are transformed to describe cylindrical and spherical waves and waves in horns. Expressions for the intensity and absorption of finite-amplitude waves are obtained.
Cosmological Chameleons, string theory and the swampland
Authors: Casas Gonzalo F. , Montero Miguel , Ruiz Ignacio
Published: November 2024

Abstract

We study a scenario with a transient phase of cosmological acceleration that could potentially be realized in asymptotic corners of String Theory moduli space. A very steep scalar potential is temporarily stabilized by the effect of a nonzero density of heavy states, leading to acceleration, in what amounts to a cosmological version of the Chameleon mechanism. The density of heavy states is diluted by cosmological expansion, weakening their effect. After roughly one e-fold their effect can no longer stabilize the potential, and the accelerating phase ends. We also study a scenario where there is no potential and the transient acceleration is achieved by the counterbalancing effects of light and heavy towers of states. We obtain analytic expressions for the upper bounds on the transient dS lifetime, which when combined with Swampland principles imply that it is not possible to obtain more than O(1) e-folds without transplanckian field excursions. We also discuss the general EFT constraints on these models and explore a number of first attempts at concrete embeddings of the scenario in String Theory. These all turn out to face significant challenges.
Wiener-Hopf solution of the free energy TBA problem and instanton sectors in the O(3) sigma model
Authors: Bajnok Zoltán , Balog János , Vona István
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Perturbation theory in asymptotically free quantum field theories is asymptotic. The factorially growing perturbative coefficients carry information about non-perturbative corrections, which can be related to renormalons and instantons. Using the Wiener-Hopf technique we determine the full analytic solution for the free energy density in the two dimensional O(N) sigma models. For N > 3 there are no instantons, and we found that the perturbative series carries all the information about the non-perturbative corrections. However, in the O(3) case, we identify several non-perturbative sectors that are not related to the asymptotics of the perturbative series. The number of sectors depends on the observables: for the ground-state energy density we identify three sectors, which we attribute to instantons. For the free energy density in the running perturbative coupling we found infinitely many sectors.
Nirenberg problem on high dimensional spheres: blow up with residual mass phenomenon
Authors: Ahmedou Mohameden , Ben Ayed Mohamed , El Mehdi Khalil
Published: November 2024

In this paper, we extend the analysis of the subcritical approximation of the Nirenberg problem on spheres recently conducted in Malchiodi and Mayer(J Differ Equ 268(5):2089–2124, 2020; Int Math Res Not 18:14123–14203, 2021). Specifically, we delve into the scenario where the sequence of blowing up solutions exhibits a non-zero weak limit, which necessarily constitutes a solution of the Nirenberg problem itself. Our focus lies in providing a comprehensive description of such blowing up solutions, including precise determinations of blow-up points and blow-up rates. Additionally, we compute the topological contribution of these solutions to the difference in topology between the level sets of the associated Euler-Lagrange functional. Such an analysis is intricate due to the potential degeneracy of the solutions involved. We also provide a partial converse, wherein we construct blowing up solutions when the weak limit is non-degenerate.
Maschinelle Autotransfusion in der Geburtshilfe – Hintergrund und praktische Umsetzung
Authors: Kotlyar Mischa J. , Neef Vanessa , Rumpf Florian , Meybohm Patrick , Zacharowski Kai , Kranke Peter
Published: November 2024

Die Inzidenz der postpartalen Hämorrhagie (PPH), als eine der führenden Ursachen für die maternale Mortalität, hat in den letzten Jahrzehnten in westlichen Ländern zugenommen. Angesichts der zunehmenden Knappheit und Risiken von Erythrozytenkonzentrattransfusionen bedarf es der Weiterentwicklung fremdblutsparender Maßnahmen in der Geburtshilfe.

Die maschinelle Autotransfusion (MAT), als integraler Bestandteil des Patient Blood Management (PBM), ermöglicht eine Sammlung, Aufbereitung und Retransfusion des patienteneigenen Wundblutes. Trotz zunehmender Evidenz der letzten Jahre, die die Vorteile der MAT aufzeigt, wird das Verfahren bislang bei lediglich 0,07 % aller Geburten mit peripartalen Hämorrhagien an deutschen Krankenhäusern eingesetzt. Es ist anzunehmen, dass der fehlende Einsatz der MAT einerseits auf Sorgen vor patientenbezogenen Risiken wie iatrogene Fruchtwasserembolie und der maternalen Alloimmunisierung während des Einsatzes beruht. Andererseits könnten aber auch die fehlende Anwendung und somit unzureichende Erfahrung im Umgang mit der MAT eine Hürde in deren Nutzung darstellen.

Der nachfolgende Artikel vermittelt einen Überblick über die aktuelle Evidenz zum Einsatz und zur Sicherheit der MAT in der Geburtshilfe. Um eine praxisnahe Umsetzung zu erleichtern, wurden grundsätzliche Überlegungen und organisatorische Vorkehrungen anhand von Erfahrungswerten von den Universitätskliniken Würzburg und Frankfurt übersichtlich aufbereitet und in Form von Grafiken und Checklisten für die perioperative MAT-Anwendung bei Sectio caesarea bereitgestellt.
On neural networks for generating better local optima in topology optimization
Authors: Herrmann Leon , Sigmund Ole , Li Viola Muning , Vogl Christian , Kollmannsberger Stefan
Published: November 2024

Neural networks have recently been employed as material discretizations within adjoint optimization frameworks for inverse problems and topology optimization. While advantageous regularization effects and better optima have been found for some inverse problems, the benefit for topology optimization has been limited—where the focus of investigations has been the compliance problem. We demonstrate how neural network material discretizations can, under certain conditions, find better local optima in more challenging optimization problems, where we here specifically consider acoustic topology optimization. The chances of identifying a better optimum can significantly be improved by running multiple partial optimizations with different neural network initializations. Furthermore, we show that the neural network material discretization’s advantage comes from the interplay with the Adam optimizer and emphasize its current limitations when competing with constrained and higher-order optimization techniques. At the moment, this discretization has only been shown to be beneficial for unconstrained first-order optimization.
Kin networks and quality of government: a regional analysis
Authors: Ezcurra Roberto
Published: November 2024

This paper examines the relationship between kin-based institutions and quality of government in the regions of Spain, France, and Italy. The results show that the rate of cousin marriage during the twentieth century is a strong predictor of the modern-day quality of government in the regions of these three countries. Regions characterized by a higher prevalence of cousin marriage tend to have on average worse governance outcomes. This finding holds after accounting for country fixed effects and different variables that may be correlated with both consanguinity and regional quality of government, including an extensive array of geographical, historical, and contemporary factors. The observed association between cousin marriage and quality of government persists when I utilize an instrumental variable approach that exploits regional variation in the degree of historical exposure to the marriage laws of the medieval Catholic Church to address potential endogeneity concerns. Furthermore, the paper also provides evidence consistent with the idea that the effect of cousin marriage on the quality of government operates through its impact on a series of cultural traits such as impersonal trust, fairness, and conformity-obedience.
The importance of incorporation of real-world evidence into the guidelines on the pharmacological treatment of schizophrenia
Authors: Bitter Istvan , Katona Lajos , Falkai Peter , Czobor Pal
Published: November 2024

The quantity and quality of real-world data and real-world evidence in schizophrenia research are at a high level. However, these results are not included in the grading systems used to develop treatment guidelines for schizophrenia. A meta-analysis and a network meta-analysis have independently provided evidence that the results of randomized clinical trials in schizophrenia adequately translate to real-world settings. The authors propose the incorporation of a synthesis of evidence derived from analyses of randomized controlled trials and real-world data as a novel and highest level of evidence in grading instruments used to develop treatment guidelines for schizophrenia.
The role of selective attention in implicit learning: evidence for a contextual cueing effect of task-irrelevant features
Authors: Tavera Felice , Haider Hilde
Published: November 2024

With attentional mechanisms, humans select and de-select information from the environment. But does selective attention modulate implicit learning? We tested whether the implicit acquisition of contingencies between features are modulated by the task-relevance of those features. We implemented the contingencies in a novel variant of the contextual cueing paradigm. In such a visual search task, participants could use non-spatial cues to predict target location, and then had to discriminate target shapes. In Experiment 1, the predictive feature for target location was the shape of the distractors (task-relevant). In Experiment 2, the color feature of distractors (task-irrelevant) cued target location. Results showed that participants learned to predict the target location from both the task-relevant and the task-irrelevant feature. Subsequent testing did not suggest explicit knowledge of the contingencies. For the purpose of further testing the significance of task-relevance in a cue competition situation, in Experiment 3, we provided two redundantly predictive cues, shape (task-relevant) and color (task-irrelevant) simultaneously, and subsequently tested them separately. There were no observed costs of single predictive cues when compared to compound cues. The results were not indicative of overshadowing effects, on the group and individual level, or of reciprocal overshadowing. We conclude that the acquisition of contingencies occurs independently of task-relevance and discuss this finding in the framework of the event coding literature.
Square-mean S-Asymptotically $$\omega $$-Periodic Solutions for Some Stochastic Delayed Integrodifferential Inclusions
Authors: Mbaye Mamadou Moustapha , Diop Amadou , N’Guérékata Gaston Mandata
Published: November 2024

In this work, by the resolvent operator theory, stochastic analysis theory and the fixed-point technique in Fréchet spaces, we present sufficient conditions for the existence of square-mean S-asymptotically $$\omega $$
ω
-periodic mild solutions of abstract stochastic integrodifferential inclusions with infinite delay in separable Hilbert spaces and provide an example to illustrate the abstract results.
Morphology of the human inner ear and vestibulocochlear nerve assessed using 7 T MRI
Authors: Aphiwatthanasumet Kingkarn , Jethwa Ketan , Glover Paul , O’Donoghue Gerard , Auer Dorothee , Gowland Penny
Published: November 2024

Objective

To optimize high-resolution 7 T MRI of the cochlea and measure normal cochlea and the cochlear nerve morphometry in vivo.

Materials and methods

Eight volunteers with normal hearing were scanned at 7 T using an optimized protocol. Two neuroradiologists independently scored image quality. The basal turn lumen diameter (BTLD), height, width, length and volume of the cochlear, long (LD) and short (SD) diameter the calculated cross-sectional area (CSA) of the cochlear nerve were measured. Intra and inter-observer reliability was assessed using intraclass correlation (ICC).

Results

3D T2W DRIVE combined with dielectric pads, allowed acquisition of high-resolution images showing detailed structures, such as the crista ampullaris in the semicircular canals. The overall grading scores from neuroradiologists were excellent. In the left ear, averaging over all subjects gave BTLD of 2.6 ± 0.05 mm, height of 4.9 ± 0.1 mm, width of 4.4 ± 0.2 mm, length of 36.5 ± 0.4 mm, volume of 0.16 ± 0.02 ml, LD of 1.31 ± 0.1 mm, SD of 1.06 ± 0.1 mm, and CSA of 1.1 ± 0.1 mm2. The right ear gave BTLD of 2.6 ± 0.04 mm, height of 4.9 ± 0.1 mm, width of 4.4 ± 0.3 mm, length of 35.5 ± 0.4 mm, volume of 0.16 ± 0.02 ml, LD of 1.29 ± 0.1 mm, SD of 1.07 ± 0.1 mm, and CSA of 1.10 ± 0.2 mm2. No statistically significant difference was found between the sides of the head (p-value > 0.05). The intra-observer reliability was high (0.77–0.94), while the inter-observer reliability varied from moderate to high (0.55–0.81).

Conclusion

7 T MRI can provide excellent visualization of the internal structure of the cochlear and of the vestibulocochlear nerve in vivo.
Muscle spindle receptors and their impact on Parkinson´s disease and Cerebral Palsy subjects
Authors: Bartels Else Marie , Harrison Adrian
Published: November 2024

In some neurological conditions, like Parkinson’s disease (PD) and Cerebral Palsy (CP), as well as with ageing, muscle spindles have been mentioned as participating in the pathological response of observed muscles. The aim of this review has therefore been to examine what is known about muscle spindle receptors, their function and how they are involved in regulating precise muscle movement in relation to these two conditions. Data from acoustic myography (AMG) studies with healthy controls (HC), CP and PD subjects have been re-examined with a view to identifying possible effects of changes in muscle movement which could be related to muscle spindle receptor function. Studies of muscle spindles have shown that during shortening and lengthening contractions the fusimotor system is activated differently with different discharge frequencies and sensitivities. With increasing age comes a loss of precise proprioception, something that coincides with a change in the AMG E-score towards lower values, indicating a reduced level of coordination and efficiency of muscle use. With PD and CP there is likewise a documented decrease in proprioception, also showing lower E-values than age-matched HC subjects. We conclude that the decrease in proprioception observed in these subjects must be partly due to a change in the muscle spindle / C-centre feedback system.
Diplomonorchis fallax n. sp. (Digenea: Monorchiidae) from the northern Gulf of Mexico with evaluation of sympatric congeners
Authors: Curran Stephen S. , Olson Peter D. , Bullard Stephen A.
Published: November 2024

Diplomonorchis micropogoni Nahhas & Cable, 1964 was considered a junior subjective synonym of Diplomonorchis leiostomi Hopkins, 1941 in 1969. Diplomonorchis leiostomi has since been widely reported from the coastal Western Atlantic between Delaware Bay and southern Brazil. Until now, taxonomically verifiable DNA sequence data for D. leiostomi has been available from an individual worm collected from the northern Gulf of Mexico. We generated a partial sequence of the 28S rRNA gene from D. leiostomi from the spot croaker, Leiostomus xanthurus Lacepède (type-host) from Beaufort, North Carolina, USA (type-locality) that differed at 31 of 1,246 bases from the available 28S sequence. This prompted a reevaluation of Diplomonorchis spp. identities from the northern Gulf of Mexico. We found D. leiostomi and D. micropogoni distinguishable by testes shape and size, and to a lesser degree by relative caecal length. Museum specimens of D. leiostomi, identified from the Gulf of Mexico represent a species complex containing D. leiostomi, D. cf. micropogoni and, a new species of Diplomonorchis. The sequences previously identified as D. leiostomi in GenBank (AY222137 & AY222252) are herein identified as D. cf. micropogoni. The new species is described from newly collected material herein. Phylogenetic analysis of 28S rRNA sequences from the species complex plus 46 species from the Monorchioidea Odhner, 1911 indicated all three Diplomonorchis spp. are closely related and form a clade with some species of Lasiotocus Looss, 1907. With the addition of the new species, and acceptance of D. micropogoni, there are currently 14 valid species in Diplomonorchis.
Analysis of six consecutive waves of ICU-admitted COVID-19 patients: key findings and insights from a Portuguese population
Authors: Von Rekowski Cristiana P. , Pinto Iola , Fonseca Tiago A. H. , Araújo Rúben , Calado Cecília R. C. , Bento Luís
Published: November 2024

Identifying high-risk patients, particularly in intensive care units (ICUs), enhances treatment and reduces severe outcomes. Since the pandemic, numerous studies have examined COVID-19 patient profiles and factors linked to increased mortality. Despite six pandemic waves, to the best of our knowledge, there is no extensive comparative analysis of patients’ characteristics across these waves in Portugal. Thus, we aimed to analyze the demographic and clinical features of 1041 COVID-19 patients admitted to an ICU and their relationship with the different SARS-Cov-2 variants in Portugal. Additionally, we conducted an in-depth examination of factors contributing to early and late mortality by analyzing clinical data and laboratory results from the first 72 h of ICU admission. Our findings revealed a notable decline in ICU admissions due to COVID-19, with the highest mortality rates observed during the second and third waves. Furthermore, immunization could have significantly contributed to the reduction in the median age of ICU-admitted patients and the severity of their conditions. The factors contributing to early and late mortality differed. Age, wave number, D-dimers, and procalcitonin were independently associated with the risk of early death. As a measure of discriminative power for the derived multivariable model, an AUC of 0.825 (p < 0.001; 95% CI, 0.719–0.931) was obtained. For late mortality, a model incorporating age, wave number, hematologic cancer, C-reactive protein, lactate dehydrogenase, and platelet counts resulted in an AUC of 0.795 (p < 0.001; 95% CI, 0.759–0.831). These findings underscore the importance of conducting comprehensive analyses across pandemic waves to better understand the dynamics of COVID-19.
Key changes across valley floors in mountain areas affected by different levels of human impact: a case study of the Ochotnica river catchment in the Polish Carpathians
Authors: Gołąb Agata , Michno Anna
Published: November 2024

The goal of this paper was to present knowledge on changes in the morphodynamic structure of the Ochotnica River (Polish Carpathians) and transformations within its active river zone since the end of the 19th century. The study used a set of archival and contemporary cartographic materials and the results of three-fold field mapping of the morphodynamic structure of the riverbed. Direct and indirect human interference with the natural environment of the catchment and the fluvial system was taken into account in the analysis. Analysis of changes in the morphodynamic structure of the Ochotnica and its active river zone since the end of the 19th century indicated significant changes in the development trend of the riverbed. The contemporary structure of the Ochotnica is more complex than in the 1980s. There has been a fragmentation of the riverbed into sections with different morphodynamic sections. The proportion of erosive sections has increased, which explains the reduced in the width of the active river zone of the Ochotnica. The average width of the active river zone of the river between 1861 and 2022 has changed from 80 m to 18 m. Human impact has been identified as the main reason for the changes in the morphodynamic structure of the riverbed and its active river zone. Currently, only the unregulated sect ion is characterised by free lateral migration of the riverbed and the widest active river zone (∼ 28 m).
Enhancing patient activation: a controlled implementation study of an interprofessional evidence-based counseling program for complementary and integrative healthcare in cancer patients (‘CCC-Integrativ’)
Authors: Valentini Jan , Froehlich Daniela , Roesel Inka , Stolz Regina , Mahler Cornelia , Martus Peter , Klafke Nadja , Horneber Markus , Witte Claudia , Kramer Klaus , Greil Christine , Gruen Barbara , Tomaschko-Ubelaender Katrin , Joos Stefanie ,   CCC-Integrativ Study Group
Published: November 2024

Complementary and integrative healthcare (CIH) is increasingly recognized as a valuable approach to empowering and activating cancer patients. Studies have shown that higher patient activation is positively associated with improved health outcomes and reduced healthcare costs. The CCC-Integrativ study aimed to assess the implementation of an evidence-based counseling service on CIH at four Comprehensive Cancer Centers (CCC) in Germany. In this controlled implementation study, the patient-level intervention included three CIH consultations within a 3-month period delivered by interprofessional teams of physicians and nurses. The primary endpoint was patient activation using the PAM-13 at baseline (T1) and post-intervention (T2), and compared between control (CO, receiving routine care) and the intervention group (IG) using an analysis of covariance. Missing data were handled with multiple imputations. Maintenance effects at 6-month follow-up (T3) were investigated using a linear mixed model. A total of n = 1128 oncology patients (CO = 443, IG = 685) with diverse tumor entities and cancer stages were included in the study. The overall mean baseline PAM-13 score was 69.74 (SD = 14.24) (n = 959 (85.0%)). A statistically significant between-group difference in post-intervention PAM-13 scores was observed (Fgroup(1, 1866.82) = 8.634, P = 0.003), with an adjusted mean difference of 2.22 PAM-points. Age, gender, tumor entity, disease stage, or CCC study site did not significantly predict post-treatment PAM-13 scores. The maintenance effect of the intervention was not statistically significant (FtimeXgroup(1, 3316.04) = 2.337, P = 0.096). Individually tailored counseling on CIH, offered by specifically trained, interprofessional teams, significantly improved patient activation. Given the established positive effects of higher patient activation, the implementation of such a program at cancer centers may yield beneficial outcomes for both patients and the healthcare system.
Unpacking when and how customer involvement as co-developer affects supplier new product performance
Authors: Zaefarian Ghasem , Katsikeas Constantine S. , Najafi-Tavani Zhaleh , Robson Matthew J.
Published: November 2024

Scholars and practitioners concur on the importance of involving business customers in the development of new products as a viable solution to suppliers’ need for continuous improvement in innovation and enhanced performance. Yet, under certain circumstances, the difficulties of involving customers as co-developers in collaborative innovation projects can outweigh the benefits. We adopt the social context and task experience sub-dimensions of organizational learning theory to investigate whether and under what conditions customer involvement as co-developer (CIC) improves or impairs the supplier’s market-based, new product performance. Using quasi-longitudinal, lagged survey data from 217 Chinese manufacturing suppliers, we find that CIC has an inverted U-shaped relationship to new product performance. Trust negatively and shared vision positively moderate this relationship, while social interactions do not significantly influence the effectiveness of CIC practices. Finally, market experience negatively moderates the inverted U-shaped link between CIC and new product performance.
(In)Harmonious transition from an intent to an action: emotional correlates of susceptibility to control and authorship
Authors: Adamska Krystyna , Jurek Paweł , Pedynkowska Julia
Published: November 2024

The harmonious transition from intention to action is a positive experience associated with a sense of authorship over one’s own actions. Its opposite is the presence of an internal control that ensures action. According to the assumptions of self-determination theory, a person’s development is aimed at achieving harmony between intention and action. This constitutes autonomy, the second key element of which is self-reflection. The results of our study conducted on a sample of 778 people do not support the content-focused concept of autonomy. Based on the literature on self-regulation, we assumed that the transition from intention to action might be related to the anxiety, pride, curiosity and compassion. The results of our study confirm these expectations and suggest that a structural approach may offer a better understanding of the transition form intention to action than a content theory, thus providing a theoretical framework for practical solutions.
Worse Clinical and Survival Outcomes in Breast Cancer Patients Living in Puerto Rico Compared to Hispanics, Non-Hispanic Blacks, and Non-Hispanic Whites from Florida
Authors: Lantz Abigail E. , Gebert Ryan , Li Jiannong , Oliveras Jose A. , Gordián Edna R. , Perez-Morales Jaileene , Eschrich Steven , Chen Dung-Tsa , Rosa Marilin , Dutil Julie , Saavedra Harold I. , Muñoz-Antonia Teresita , Flores Idhaliz , Cress William D.
Published: November 2024

Background

Herein, we report the characterization of four cohorts of breast cancer patients including (1) non-Hispanic Whites in Florida, (2) non-Hispanic Blacks in Florida, (3) Hispanics in Florida, and (4) Hispanics in Puerto Rico.

Methods

Data from female breast cancer patients were collected from cancer registry (n = 9361) and self-reported patient questionnaires (n = 4324). Several statistical tests were applied to identify significant group differences.

Results

Breast cancer patients from Puerto Rico were least frequently employed and had the lowest rates of college education among the groups. They also reported more live births and less breastfeeding. Both Hispanic groups reported a higher fraction experiencing menstruation at age 11 or younger (Floridian Hispanics [38%] and Puerto Ricans [36%]) compared to non-Hispanic Whites (20%) and non-Hispanic Blacks (22%). Non-Hispanic Black and Puerto Rican women were significantly older at breast cancer diagnosis than their non-Hispanic White and Floridian Hispanic counterparts. The Puerto Rican and non-Hispanic Black groups more frequently had pathology stage T2 or higher primary breast tumors at diagnosis (non-Hispanic Whites [29%], non-Hispanic Blacks [39%], Floridian Hispanics [33%], Puerto Ricans [46%]). The Puerto Rican (73%, 95% CI [66, 82]) and non-Hispanic Black (79%, 95% CI [75, 84]) groups demonstrate reduced 5-year survival compared to non-Hispanic Whites (89%, 95% CI [86, 92]) and Floridian Hispanics (89%, 95% CI [86, 90]).

Conclusions

These findings demonstrate that Puerto Rican breast cancer patients suffer significant breast cancer health disparities relative to non-Hispanic Whites and Hispanics from Florida similar to the disparities observed for non-Hispanic Blacks. Future work must seek to better understand and address these disparities.
A Mixed-Methods Investigation of First-Year Medical Students’ Professionalism Competency Development over the Gross Anatomy Course
Authors: Porta-Miller Emily M. , Brueckner-Collins Jennifer
Published: November 2024

Background

While competency-based medical education (CBME) and competency assessment in clinical training are well documented, they are less commonly included in preclinical medical education. The gross anatomy laboratory is an opportune setting to incorporate competency assessment and reflection during preclinical medical education. This mixed-methods study determined how first-year medical student assessments of professionalism skills in the gross anatomy lab change over time and analyzed student reflections to contextualize the experiences they had developing the Professionalism competency.

Methods

First-year medical students at the University of Louisville completed self- and peer-assessments using the Professionalism Assessment Scale (PAS) at the beginning and end of their gross anatomy course (n = 83). The students also completed three competency development portfolio (CDP) entries throughout the course (n = 83). Qualitative thematic analysis with grounded theory was used to analyze comments related to professionalism skill development in the CDP reflections during the course.

Results

There was no statistical difference in PAS self-assessment scores from Time 1 (M = 4.81, SD = .209) to Time 2 (M = 4.85, SD = .217), p = .108. There was a statistically significant increase in PAS-peer-assessment scores from Time 1 (M = 4.89, SD = .165) to Time 2 (M = 4.93, SD = .127), p = .005. Thematic analysis of CDPs revealed that students believed they developed interpersonal relations/social skills, responsibility skills, and gross anatomy lab-specific skills over the gross anatomy course.

Conclusions

The Professionalism competency is inherently present and able to be assessed in the gross anatomy lab context for first-year medical students.
A Comparison Between the Reduction Behavior of DRI and BF Pellets in H2 and CO Atmospheres
Authors: Heidari Aidin , Heikkilä Anne , Iljana Mikko , Fabritius Timo
Published: November 2024

The reduction behavior of two different iron ore pellets that are used in blast furnace (BF) and direct reduction (DRI) was investigated in this research. Single pellets reduction experiments were conducted isothermally using pure CO and H2 as reducing agent in the temperature range 700 °C to 1100 °C. Reduction by H2 was significantly faster than reduction by CO for both pellets and reduction rate increased with increasing the temperature. When CO was used as the reducing agent, the BF pellet achieved a reduction degree of 32% at 700 °C and 67% at 800 °C, while the DRI pellet reached 28% and 59% at the same temperatures. This difference is due to the lower magnetite content in BF pellets (1.93%) compared to DRI pellets (9.11%). However, at 1000 °C and 1100 °C, the DRI pellet achieved 93% and 100% reduction, and the BF pellet 88% and 94%, respectively, due to the higher porosity in the DRI pellet (38%) compared to BF (32%). Kinetics controlling model for hydrogen reduction of both pellets suggested as D2 (2D Diffusion through the solid ash), however, A1 (1D Nucleation and growth) and R3 (3D Chemical reaction) were found as the most compatible models for CO reduction of DRI and BF pellets, respectively.

Graphical Abstract
Surface roughness and coefficients of friction of 3D-printed clamp tools made from selective laser melting
Authors: Kaleem Muhammad Ali , Frohn-Sörensen Peter , Reuter Jonas , Engel Bernd
Published: November 2024

The practical use of 3D-printed metal tools in production industries requires accurate characterization of tool behaviour. In metal forming industries, the efficacy of clamp tools largely depends on surface roughness and friction behaviour of tool surfaces. This research is aimed to investigate surface roughness and friction behaviour of 3D-printed clamp tools made from selective laser melting process. Gas atomized powdered tool steel-X3NiCoTi1895 (EN 1.2709) is used to 3D print clamp tools. A mechanical setup determines the friction coefficients of 3D-printed samples under practical loading conditions. The effect of raster angle on surface roughness of 3D-printed clamp tools is determined. These findings serve as the basis of a broader project in which metal-3D-printed forming tools are developed and tested in actual production setups.
The Puzzle of Lab-Grown Meat
Authors: Montefiore Thomas , Goris John
Published: November 2024

We argue for the existence of a moral dilemma– the ‘Puzzle of Lab-Grown Meat’– which challenges those who would endorse the moral permissibility of eating lab-grown meat, such as lab-grown chicken. The puzzle is that it is unclear why the moral permissibility of eating lab-grown meat should not extend to all lab-grown meat, such as white rhino or human, yet intuitively, we consider such meat morally impermissible to consume. To reject this challenge forces an endorsement of one of two implausibly strong positions: either that all lab-grown meat is morally impermissible to eat or that all lab-grown meat is morally permissible to eat. To accept this challenge, is to attempt to solve the puzzle by providing a morally relevant distinction between ‘fair-game’ and ‘off-limits’ lab-grown meat. We consider a range of solutions but argue that each fails to solve the puzzle.