bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
What Amount of Weight Loss Can Entail Anorexia Nervosa or Atypical Anorexia Nervosa After Bariatric Surgery?
Authors: Hebebrand Johannes , Antel Jochen , Conceição Eva , Matthews Abigail , Hinney Anke , Peters Triinu
Published: September 2024

Objective

Post‐operative development of restrictive eating disorders can occur in patients after bariatric surgery. In children and adolescents with anorexia nervosa (AN) or atypical AN, premorbid body mass index (BMI) has recently been shown to predict total weight loss. We hypothesized that pre‐operative BMI similarly predicts weight loss and the development of a restrictive eating disorder in adult bariatric patients.

Method

A PubMed search identified case studies/series of 29 adult females who developed AN or atypical AN/eating disorder not otherwise specified following bariatric surgery. Non‐parametric Spearman's correlation (r

s
) between pre‐operative BMI and total weight loss was calculated; a scatterplot was used to illustrate the relationship between pre‐operative/premorbid BMI and weight loss in kg for 29 bariatric patients and 460 children and adolescents with AN or atypical AN as published previously.

Results

The correlation between pre‐operative BMI and weight loss among bariatric patients was r

s
 = 0.65 (p = 0.0001). Scatterplot data of this relationship fit the previously identified pattern in children and adolescents with AN or atypical AN.

Discussion

The prediction of weight loss by pre‐operative/premorbid BMI appears applicable across the weight spectrum, from underweight to severe obesity, thus strengthening our hypothesis of underlying regulatory mechanisms for the development of AN and atypical AN. Such data may guide the determination of critical weight loss thresholds that trigger eating disorder development in predisposed individuals.
The antihyperuricemic and nephroprotective effect of puerarin by reducing uric acid level and exerting anti‐inflammatory activity
Authors: Wang Muxuan , Zhao Yong , Chen Nan , Wang Yanao , Guo Xu , Li Ningyang , Liu Haoran , Sun Hui , Liu Chao , Liao Zhixin
Published: September 2024

Hyperuricemia (HUA) is a common metabolic disease and kidney injury is one of its main complications. As a typical natural flavonoid, puerarin (PEA) has a range of pharmacological activity but the antihyperuricemic mechanism of PEA has not been reported. Herein, the inhibitory activity of PEA against xanthine oxidase (XOD) was evaluated by in vitro enzymatic reaction, and kinetic analysis, the antihyperuricemic activity, and nephroprotective effect of PEA were studied in HUA mice. The enzymatic reaction showed that the inhibitory effect of PEA (half maximal inhibitory concentration [IC50] = 4.39 µmol/L) on XOD was at the same level as allopurinol (IC50 = 4.05 µmol/L), and kinetic analysis indicated that PEA was a mixed competitive inhibitor. In vivo studies demonstrated that PEA exhibited excellent antihyperuricemic activity by inhibiting XOD and urate transporter 1 (URAT1), to reduce uric acid level. At the same time, PEA reduced the level of inflammatory cytokines and exerted significant nephroprotective effect through anti‐inflammatory activity. Molecular docking indicated that PEA closely bind to both XOD and URAT1, which had the potential to become an inhibitor of XOD and URAT1. In summary, PEA has important application value in developing novel functional food and medicine for the treatment of HUA and its complications.
Targeting the Dissolution of Polyselenides: An Investigation Involving UV–Vis Spectroscopy and Interlayer Development
Authors: Mutlu‐Cetinkaya Tutku , Hayat Soytas Serap , Demir‐Cakan Rezan
Published: September 2024

Li–Se batteries are promising energy storage systems due to the high theoretical volumetric capacity and electrical conductivity of selenium. However, the formation of dissolved polyselenide in ether‐based electrolytes is one of the main factors affecting the electrochemical performance of Li–Se batteries. Herein, the presence and solubility of polyselenides in ether‐based electrolytes are initially investigated using UV–vis spectroscopy and compared with carbonate‐based solvents. Then, to address the polyselenide shuttle effect, SnCl2‐containing poly(acrylonitrile‐co‐vinylpyrrolidone) (oPANVP/SnCl2) nanofibrous interlayer is utilized to retain the dissolved compounds. The absorption capacity of this interlayer is investigated and quantitatively demonstrated by UV–vis spectroscopy. The cell with the interlayer achieves a discharge capacity of 266 mAh g−1 after 150 cycles, significantly higher than the cell without the interlayer. Furthermore, 3‐electrode electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and open‐circuit voltage monitoring are conducted to investigate the impact of the oPANVP/SnCl2 interlayer on the solubility of polyselenides. The improved electrochemical results indicate that ether‐based electrolytes can be successfully utilized in Li–Se batteries when an effective interlayer is present to adsorb polyselenides.
Experimental and numerical investigations on the influence of transverse beams and slab on the seismic behavior of non‐seismically designed exterior beam‐column joints
Authors: Tonidis Margaritis , Sharma Akanshu , Birtel Veit
Published: September 2024

The study presents experimental and numerical results on two‐dimensional and three‐dimensional full‐scale exterior non‐seismically designed (NSD) reinforced concrete (RC) beam‐column joint subassemblies subjected to quasi‐static cyclic lateral loading. The tests were augmented by detailed 3D finite element modeling to obtain further information about the joint behavior. Through these systematic investigations and their detailed evaluation, clear conclusions could be drawn on the effect of transverse beams and slab on the overall seismic behavior of beam‐column joints, where the joint core was devoid of transverse reinforcement. It was found that the presence of transverse beams enhanced both the ultimate joint shear strength and joint shear strength at first joint cracking. The crack development in concrete revealed that the diagonal joint shear cracks extended from the joint core into the transverse beams. The slab participation under flexure, when acting in tension, decreased with increase in drift due to intervening loss in joint stiffness, which was inconsistent with the observations in subassemblies where the joints were confined with transverse reinforcement. It was found that the inclined cracking in the transverse beams was caused due to joint shear stresses and aggravated due to torsional stresses when a slab was present. Normalized joint shear stress and principal tensile stress values were evaluated for first joint shear cracking and ultimate joint shear strength. These values may be useful for the seismic assessment of non‐seismically designed beam‐column joints with transverse beams and slab.
Rule‐based energy management system for autonomous voltage stabilization in standalone DC microgrid
Authors: Safder Muhammad Umair , Hossain Md Alamgir , Sanjari Mohammad J. , Lu Junwei
Published: September 2024

This paper presents a rule‐based energy management system (EMS) designed for a standalone DC microgrid incorporating solar photovoltaic (PV), fuel cell, battery energy storage system (BESS), and electric vehicle. The unpredictable nature of renewable energy sources and the instability of loads pose challenges for maintaining DC bus voltages and power‐sharing arrangements, impacting the microgrid's smooth operation. The proposed EMS aims to ensure power balance between generation and demand, mitigating vulnerabilities of the DC bus to voltage instability caused by fluctuations from both the load and source sides. This is achieved through an autonomous DC bus voltage stabilization strategy, involving the maintenance of a nominal state of energy (SoE) for the BESS and hydrogen fuel consumption for the fuel cell within predefined lower and upper limits. By regulating these two factors, the EMS algorithm facilitates optimal performance of the PV, battery, and fuel cell components. Consequently, the EMS provides decision‐making instructions to each individual energy source, ensuring efficient operation under various conditions. The effectiveness of the proposed EMS is evaluated through hardware‐based testing on a DC microgrid and simulations in the MATLAB Simulink environment across multiple operating scenarios.
Optimization of ultrasonic‐assisted extraction of soluble dietary fiber (β‐glucan) from different barley varieties and study of its characterization and functional attributes
Authors: Anis Nomeena , Ahmed Zaheer , Khalid Nauman
Published: September 2024

Green technology, encompassing sustainable practices in food production, extends to dietary fiber extraction. This study aimed to enhance dietary fiber extraction from the selected barley varieties (Jou‐17, Sultan‐17, and Pearl‐21) using the ultrasonic‐assisted extraction (UAE) technique. This process involved washing, drying, de‐fatting (using ethanol as green solvent), and protein removal steps. The response surface methodology (RSM) technique was used to optimize the yield of soluble dietary fiber (SDF; β‐glucan) with time, temperature, and power. Optimal conditions yielded the highest SDF (5.21%) in all selected varieties after 17.5 min at 41.70°C with 130.5 W. FTIR pattern confirmed the functional group in the tested sample. TGA and DSC spectra determined the thermal of SDF (β‐glucan). Monosaccharide composition confirmed that SDF (β‐glucan) is glucose in nature. Proximate analysis indicated that Jou‐17 had the highest moisture (13.4%) and crude fiber (10.10%) content. Sultan‐17, on the other hand, had the maximum levels of ash (2.75%), crude fat (1.22%), and protein (8.84%). The NFE, water‐holding capacity, oil‐holding capacity, and foaming capacity of extracted SDF (β‐glucan) in the “Pearl‐21” barley variety were determined to be 78.37%, 14.07 g/g, 6.99 g/g, and 126.17%, whereas highest foaming‐stability (96.26%) was observed in Jou‐17 variety. PCA also confirmed the association in studied variables. In a nutshell, optimizing the extraction of SDF (β‐glucan) from the selected barley varieties using green technology and its favorable properties opens up promising paths for future endeavors and contributes to the advancement of sustainable and health‐conscious practices in the food industry.
Weakly nonlinear instability analysis in triple‐diffusive convection under gravity modulation in the presence of an internal heat generator
Authors: Jakhar Atul , Anurag  , Kumar Anand
Published: September 2024

The presented study is prepared on the triple‐diffusive convection (TDC) in the presence of an internal heat source to examine the rate of heat and mass transport. The weakly nonlinear instability analysis was used to show the effect of gravity modulation. Such phenomena have been found in space vehicle technology, wind turbines, geothermals, and many more. In the realm of geometry, our analysis encompasses the study of two parallel infinite horizontal plates with gravity in the downward direction. For TDC, we have considered two solutes. For the result validation, we have compared the critical Rayleigh number with the available research. The numerical outcomes are presented through graphs for different physical parameters. Based on the outcomes, we conclude that the Richardson, Prandtl, and Lewis numbers increase the mass and heat transport. The main finding of the present article is of the internal heat source that advances convection.
The application of eXplainable artificial intelligence in studying cognition: A scoping review
Authors: Mahmood Shakran , Teo Colin , Sim Jeremy , Zhang Wei , Muyun Jiang , Bhuvana R. , Teo Kejia , Yeo Tseng Tsai , Lu Jia , Gulyas Balazs , Guan Cuntai
Published: September 2024

The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) has sparked renewed discussions on its trustworthiness and the concept of eXplainable AI (XAI). Recent research in neuroscience has emphasized the relevance of XAI in studying cognition. This scoping review aims to identify and analyze various XAI methods used to study the mechanisms and features of cognitive function and dysfunction. In this study, the collected evidence is qualitatively assessed to develop an effective framework for approaching XAI in cognitive neuroscience. Based on the Joanna Briggs Institute and preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta‐analyses extension for scoping review guidelines, we searched for peer‐reviewed articles on MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Google Scholar. Two reviewers performed data screening, extraction, and thematic analysis in parallel. Twelve eligible experimental studies published in the past decade were included. The results showed that the majority (75%) focused on normal cognitive functions such as perception, social cognition, language, executive function, and memory, while others (25%) examined impaired cognition. The predominant XAI methods employed were intrinsic XAI (58.3%), followed by attribution‐based (41.7%) and example‐based (8.3%) post hoc methods. Explainability was applied at a local (66.7%) or global (33.3%) scope. The findings, predominantly correlational, were anatomical (83.3%) or nonanatomical (16.7%). In conclusion, while these XAI techniques were lauded for their predictive power, robustness, testability, and plausibility, limitations included oversimplification, confounding factors, and inconsistencies. The reviewed studies showcased the potential of XAI models while acknowledging current challenges in causality and oversimplification, particularly emphasizing the need for reproducibility.
Bright and enlarged fetal kidneys: One phenotype different genotypes, and counseling dilemmas
Authors: Paliwal Preeti , Thakur Seema , Sharma Shreyasi
Published: September 2024

Introduction

In the present study we describe atypical cases with bright and enlarged fetal kidneys identified on fetal ultrasound with different genetic etiologies.

Methods

Exome sequencing was undertaken after prenatal counseling and after the initial diagnosis of enlarged fetal kidneys was made on ultrasound for four cases and the results were then correlated.

Results

In the present study we identified underlying variants in ACE, ETFA, PKD1, and MKS1 gene where the atypical presentation of fetal kidneys was noted either as a part of spectrum of syndrome or alone.

Conclusions

In the era of exome sequencing, targeted gene sequencing is getting replaced and for better. However not all answers are direct, and sometimes the variant categorization is dependent on the acumen and agreement of all those involved in the process. It includes those involved the diagnostic as well those catering to the patients. It is very important to be updated on the relevance of multiple gene in causing similar phenotypes particularly in the prenatal context were coming up with a timely diagnosis is very important for any sort of intervention.
Mitigation of biochemical alterations in streptozotocin‐induced gestational diabetes in rats through mesenchymal stem cells and olive leaf extract
Authors: AbdRabou Mervat A. , Mehany Ahmed B. M. , Massoud Diaa , Nabeeh Ahmed , Asran Aml M. , Germoush Mousa O. , Al‐Otaibi Aljohara M. , Atwa Ahmed
Published: September 2024

Treatment with mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) is a new promising therapeutic approach with substantial very auspicious potential. They have been shown to protect various played a role in protecting organs from damage. This current study aims to evaluate the impact of the treatment of olive leaf extract (OLE), bone marrow‐derived (BM‐MSCs), and their combination on hepatotoxicity in pregnant rats with diabetes. Methods: Animals were divided into five groups (10 pregnant rats each) as follows: control, GDM group, and OLE group (rats received streptozotocin (STZ) at a dose of 35 mg/kg body weight). GD + OLE set (pregnant rats were administered OLE at a dose of 200 mg extract/kg of body weight). GD + MSCs group (pregnant rats treated with MSCs). GD + OLE + MSCs group (pregnant rats were treated with both MSCs and OLE). Results: STZ induced significant changes in liver parameters, lipid profile, and oxidative stress. Treatment with OLE, BM‐MSCs, and their combination significantly ameliorated STZ‐induced liver damage and oxidative stress. STZ resulted in a significant change in liver parameters, lipid profile, and oxidative stress. OLE, BM‐MSC, and combination have significantly improved STZ‐induced deterioration in liver and improved oxidative stress. Conclusions: The findings demonstrate that OLE and BM‐MSCs have beneficial effects in mitigating diabetes‐related liver alterations. These outcomes showed that OLE and BM‐MSC have beneficial effects in alleviating diabetes‐related alterations in the liver.
Synthesis, Photophysical Properties and Cytotoxic Activities of Isoxazole‐Containing Difluoroboron Complexes
Authors: Sadovnikov Kirill S. , Vasilenko Dmitry A. , Astakhova Nadezhda E. , Sazonov Artem S. , Yakushev Alexei A. , Gracheva Yulia A. , Grishin Yuri K. , Tafeenko Victor A. , Milaeva Elena R. , Averina Elena B.
Published: September 2024

A large series of previously unknown isoxazole containing difluoroboron β‐diketonate has been designed and synthesized from the available starting compounds. The photophysical properties of obtained compounds were studied, and the effects of the substituents in aromatic and isoxazole cycles of the BF2 complexes on the fluorescence were investigated. The effect of solvatochromism were demonstrated. Cytotoxic activity against MCF‐7 (breast carcinoma), HCT‐116 (colon carcinoma), A549 (pulmonary carcinoma) and WI38 (fibroblasts from lung tissue) cell lines was tested and moderate toxicity in the concentration range of 10–100 μM was found for several compounds.
Knowledge and power: Changing the education of the next generation of development practitioners
Authors: Murray Davies Jo , Bah Chernor , Mulhern Emma , Lamin Precious , Williams Arnold
Published: September 2024

This research explores barriers to the academic space in which development knowledge is codified, legitimised and taught. It also speaks to these questions more broadly. Focus group discussions with representatives of 32 civil society organisations in Sierra Leone, 2 follow‐up workshops in Sierra Leone and 24 semi‐structured interviews with senior academics in the UK and North America were conducted to explore: who determines what knowledge is deemed important for students and future development practitioners to know; and how to identify barriers that limit the contribution of a wider range of stakeholders.

Racism is identified as a key factor in how knowledge is valued. Additional factors in terms of time, logistics and the structuring of academic space are also significant. Drawing on the work of power analysis scholars, we propose a three‐step framework for curriculum analysis, which identifies (1) key stakeholders in knowledge production and curriculum design; (2) spaces of power (open/invited/claimed/created/closed) within the academy and (3) the interplay of forms of power (visible/hidden/invisible) that facilitate or limit access to these spaces.
The interdependence between rhinovirus cycle threshold values, viral co‐detections, and clinical disease severity in children with and without comorbidities
Authors: Sánchez Códez María Isabel , Benavente Fernández Isabel , Moyer Katherine , Leber Amy L. , Ramilo Octavio , Mejias Asuncion
Published: September 2024

Rhinoviruses (RVs) are a leading cause of acute respiratory infections (ARI) in children. The relationship between RV viral loads (VL), RV/viral‐co‐detections and disease severity, is incompletely understood. We studied children and adolescents ≤21 years with RV‐ARI that were identified as inpatients or outpatients using a PCR panel from 2011‐2013. RV VL were stratified according to cycle threshold (CT) values in high (≤25), intermediate (26‐32) and low (>32). Adjusted analyses were performed to assess the role RV VL and RV/viral codetections on hospital admission, oxygen requirement, PICU care, and length of stay. Of 1,899 children with RV‐ARI, 78% had chronic comorbidities and 24% RV/viral co‐detections. Single RV vs RV/viral co‐detections was associated with higher VL (24.74 vs 26.62 CT; p = 0.001) and older age (14.9 vs 9.5 months; p = 0.0001). Frequency of RV/viral co‐detections were inversely proportional to RV loads: 32% with low; 28% with intermediate, and 19% with high VL, p = 0.0001. Underlying conditions were independently associated with all clinical outcomes, high VL with PICU care, and single RV‐ARI with higher odds of hospitalization. In summary, single RV vs RV/viral co‐detections were associated with higher VL and older age. Underlying diseases, rather than RV loads or RV/viral co‐detections, consistently predicted worse clinical outcomes.
Novel homozygous nonsense mutation in glucagon‐like peptide‐2 receptor gene resulting in severe human illness
Authors: Jaramishian Claire , Kamal Shivani , Martín Martín G. , Minkoff Nathan Zev
Published: September 2024

Glucagon‐like peptide‐2 (GLP2) acts on the GLP2 receptor (GLP2R) and plays a role in intestinal growth and adaptation. The endogenous actions of GLP2R do not have an established association with human disease, although mouse‐knockout models in a stressed state show enhanced susceptibility to small bowel injury, increased morbidity, mortality, and abnormal host–bacterial interactions. We report an 11‐month‐old female with multiple intensive care unit admissions for severe metabolic acidosis due to profuse nonbloody diarrhea in the context of various infections. She had normal growth, lab testing, and stooling patterns between illnesses. Trio‐whole genome sequencing revealed homozygous nonsense variants resulting in nonfunctional GLP2R. This is the first known human documented with a GLP2R‐deficient phenotype, resulting in clinical illness, which correlates with the findings in the GLP2R mouse knockout model and furthers our understanding of GLP2R and the action of teduglutide, a GLP2 analog used for the treatment of short bowel syndrome.
Accuracy of Baseline Magnetic Resonance Imaging for Staging Rectal Cancer Patients Proceeding Directly to Surgery
Authors: Milanzi Elasma , Pelly Rachel M. , Hayes Ian P. , Gibbs Peter , Faragher Ian , Reece Jeanette C.
Published: September 2024

Background and Objectives

High‐resolution magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) accuracy for staging preoperative rectal cancer varies across studies. We examined MRI accuracy for T‐ and N‐staging of rectal cancer compared with final histopathology of the resected specimen in a large Australian cohort who did not receive neoadjuvant therapy or radiation.

Methods

Retrospective analysis of prospectively‐collected clinical data from 153 rectal adenocarcinomas locally staged by high‐resolution MRI between January 2012 and December 2019 that did not undergo chemoradiotherapy or radiation before surgery. T‐ and N‐stage agreement between MRI and final histopathology was assessed using Kappa statistic. Agreement at each T‐stage was evaluated using log‐linear modeling. N‐staging accuracy was examined using positive and negative predictive values.

Results

Overall agreement between MRI and final histopathology for T‐stage and N‐stage was 55% and 65%, respectively. Kappa statistic found higher agreement between MRI and final histopathology for T‐staging (κ = 0.33) versus N‐staging (κ = 0.18). MRI correctly assessed 91% of T1 tumors, 43% of T2 tumors, 65% of T3 tumors, and 80% of T4 tumors. MRI accuracy was higher for N‐negative tumors (74.1%) than for N‐positive tumors (44.4%).

Conclusion

MRI is moderately accurate at staging T1, T3, and T4 rectal tumors but caution when staging tumors as T2 is advised. Greater accuracy for staging N‐negative versus N‐positive tumors is indicated.
Evaluating the Alignment of Artificial Intelligence‐Generated Recommendations With Clinical Guidelines Focused on Soft Tissue Tumors
Authors: Matsuoka Masatake , Onodera Tomohiro , Fukuda Ryuichi , Iwasaki Koji , Hamasaki Masanari , Ebata Taku , Hosokawa Yoshiaki , Kondo Eiji , Iwasaki Norimasa
Published: September 2024

Background

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI), particularly, in oncology, has significantly shifted the paradigms of medical diagnostics and treatment planning. However, the utility of AI, specifically OpenAI's ChatGPT, in soft tissue sarcoma treatment, remains unclear.

Methods

We evaluated ChatGPT's alignment with the Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) clinical practice guidelines on the management of soft tissue tumors 2020. Twenty‐two clinical questions (CQs) were formulated to encompass various aspects of sarcoma diagnosis, treatment, and management. ChatGPT's responses were classified into “Complete Alignment,” “Partial Alignment,” or “Nonalignment” based on the recommendation and strength of evidence.

Results

ChatGPT demonstrated an 86% alignment rate with the JOA guidelines. The AI provided two instances of complete alignment and 17 instances of partial alignment, indicating a strong capability to match guideline criteria for most questions. However, three discrepancies were identified in areas concerning the treatment of atypical lipomatous tumors, perioperative chemotherapy for synovial sarcoma, and treatment strategies for elderly patients with malignant soft tissue tumors. Reassessment with guideline input led to some adjustments, revealing both the potential and limitations of AI in complex sarcoma care.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrates that AI, specifically ChatGPT, can align with clinical guidelines for soft tissue sarcoma treatment. It also underscores the need for continuous refinement and cautious integration of AI in medical decision‐making, particularly in the context of treatment for soft tissue sarcoma.
A juvenile journey: Using a highly resolved 3D mooring array to investigate the roles of wind and internal tide forcing in across‐shore larval transport
Authors: McBride Kelley , MacKinnon Jennifer , Franks Peter J. S. , McSweeney Jacqueline M. , Waterhouse Amy F. , Palóczy André , Colosi John , MacMahan Jamie
Published: September 2024

The across‐shore transport of meroplanktonic larvae is predominantly driven by coastal physical processes, resulting in episodic recruitment of benthic species. Historically, due to the sampling challenges associated with resolving these advective mechanisms across the continental shelf, relevant components of larval transport have been difficult to isolate and understand. We use three‐dimensional temperature and velocity data from an array of 29 moorings to identify fundamental physical processes that could have generated successful across‐shore transport and settlement of meroplankton. The dense spatial and temporal sampling from this array allows us to use Lagrangian particle tracking to estimate the influences of wind conditions and the internal tide on the across‐shore transport of planktonic larvae. Settlement was found to be episodic at all depths studied. Above mid‐water, modeled larvae were successfully transported onshore by the internal tide during wind relaxations. Surprisingly, abundant pulses of shallow‐water larvae were supplied to the coast on occasions when strong, upwelling‐favorable winds (> 4 m s−1) drove offshore‐flowing surface waters, revealing a complex, potentially topographically influenced flow. These intense upwelling‐favorable winds also contributed to subsurface onshore flows that created large pulses of larval settlement in deeper waters (> 20 m). Our analyses from this highly resolved data set provide novel insights into the interactions of physical drivers in creating episodic pulses of coastal larval recruitment.
Summer sea ice melting enhances phytoplankton and dimethyl sulfide production
Authors: Li Cheng‐Xuan , Chen Kan , Sun Xia , Liu Lu , Xin Ming , Liu Xuan‐Li , Wang Bao‐Dong
Published: September 2024

The relationships among sea ice melting, phytoplankton assemblages, and the production of climate‐relevant trace gases in the Southern Ocean are gaining increasing attention from the scientific community. This is particularly true for dimethyl sulfide (DMS), which plays an important role in atmospheric chemistry by influencing the formation of sulfated aerosols with radiative impacts and constituting cloud condensation nuclei. In the current study, chlorophyll a (Chl a), DMS and its precursors dimethylsulfoniopropionate (DMSP), were quantified in the Weddell–Scotia Confluence (WSC) during the 2018 record ice extent minimum period. Mixed layer changes were found to be generally associated with spatial variation in sea ice melt, with the depth being six times deeper in ice‐free, well‐mixed regions than in seasonal ice‐melting zones. The surface Chl a concentration increased from ice‐free to ice‐melting regions with elevated sea ice meltwater percentages and drawdown surface nutrient concentrations. The concentrations of surface and depth‐integrated Chl a in the upper 150 m reached maxima in the ice‐melting region with the highest fraction of sea ice meltwater, illustrating that sea ice melting promoted the occurrence of phytoplankton blooms. The DMS and DMSP concentrations in the vicinity of the ice‐melting zone were approximately three times higher than those in the ice‐free waters. The observations of this study show that the regions of ice melting in the WSC were a zone of particularly high sea–air fluxes of DMS, which could significantly contribute to the atmospheric budget of DMS in the polar regions.
Effect of Hydrolyzed Polyacrylamide on the Emulsion Stability by Multiple Light Scattering and Molecular Dynamics Simulation
Authors: Huang Jin , Ma Xiaorong , Li Hongyao , Liu Mengxue , Gao Qinghe , Li Cuiqin
Published: September 2024

Polymer flooding, using hydrolyzed polyacrylamide (HPAM), is crucial in enhanced oil recovery technology. The effect of the HPAM and NaCl concentration on the stability of the simulated emulsions was assessed through multiple light scattering experiments. The results demonstrated that HPAM significantly enhanced the stability of both oil‐in‐water (O/W) and water‐in‐oil (W/O) emulsions. The HPAM concentration escalated from 200 mg L−1 to 1000 mg L−1, increasing from 1.24% to 1.31% at 60 minute in the average backscattering of W/O emulsions. The average transmittance of O/W emulsions exhibited a significant decline from 2.54% to 0.12%. The NaCl concentration had a small effect on the stability of the emulsions. Molecular dynamics simulations revealed that HPAM adsorbed at the oil water interface by the point‐like nature, with stronger interaction between its amide group and the oil molecule than its carboxyl group. The hydrogen bond number and the hydrogen bond lifetime of HPAM‐H2O and HPAM‐HPAM increase with increasing the number of HPAM molecules at the oil‐water interface, slowing diffusion coefficient of water molecules and increasing the interface thickness. Increasing salinity can weaken the HPAM‐water interaction, reducing the emulsification stability. This work provides insights into the emulsification characteristics and mechanisms of HPAM.
Houston, We Have AI Problem! Quality Issues with Neuroimaging‐Based Artificial Intelligence in Parkinson's Disease: A Systematic Review
Authors: Dzialas Verena , Doering Elena , Eich Helena , Strafella Antonio P. , Vaillancourt David E. , Simonyan Kristina , van Eimeren Thilo ,   International Parkinson Movement Disorders Society‐Neuroimaging Study Group
Published: September 2024

In recent years, many neuroimaging studies have applied artificial intelligence (AI) to facilitate existing challenges in Parkinson's disease (PD) diagnosis, prognosis, and intervention. The aim of this systematic review was to provide an overview of neuroimaging‐based AI studies and to assess their methodological quality. A PubMed search yielded 810 studies, of which 244 that investigated the utility of neuroimaging‐based AI for PD diagnosis, prognosis, or intervention were included. We systematically categorized studies by outcomes and rated them with respect to five minimal quality criteria (MQC) pertaining to data splitting, data leakage, model complexity, performance reporting, and indication of biological plausibility. We found that the majority of studies aimed to distinguish PD patients from healthy controls (54%) or atypical parkinsonian syndromes (25%), whereas prognostic or interventional studies were sparse. Only 20% of evaluated studies passed all five MQC, with data leakage, non‐minimal model complexity, and reporting of biological plausibility as the primary factors for quality loss. Data leakage was associated with a significant inflation of accuracies. Very few studies employed external test sets (8%), where accuracy was significantly lower, and 19% of studies did not account for data imbalance. Adherence to MQC was low across all observed years and journal impact factors. This review outlines that AI has been applied to a wide variety of research questions pertaining to PD; however, the number of studies failing to pass the MQC is alarming. Therefore, we provide recommendations to enhance the interpretability, generalizability, and clinical utility of future AI applications using neuroimaging in PD. © 2024 The Author(s). Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Processing time and precision of aging structures for Bighead Carp and Silver Carp in the lower Red River catchment in the southern Great Plains
Authors: Birdsall B. , Dattilo J. , Fuqua Z. , Brewer S. K.
Published: September 2024

Objective

Population demographics of invasive species are commonly evaluated to better develop management actions that are useful for reducing their abundance or controlling the population. Bighead Carp Hypophthalmichthys nobilis and Silver Carp H. molitrix are emblematic invaders in the United States, where they continue to expand their range. There is currently no consensus about which hard structure from these species is best for age estimation. Our study objective was to compare the processing time and precision of five hard structures used for age estimation of both species.

Methods

We sampled fish in the lower Red River catchment of Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Texas during summer and autumn 2021–2022 and removed the lapillus otolith, left primary pectoral fin ray, postcleithrum, urohyal bone, and anterior-most pterygiophore of the dorsal fin from both Bighead and Silver carp. The structures (n = 1204) were either embedded in epoxy or thin-sectioned and mounted on slides. Two readers estimated the age of the fish by using each structure and came to a consensus. Processing time was recorded from the onset of laboratory processing to the termination of polishing the cross sections for age estimation.

Result

Processing of otoliths was comparable to or faster than processing of the other structures and resulted in the highest between-reader agreement. The lowest coefficients of variation in age estimation were represented using lapillus otoliths for Bighead Carp and postcleithra for Silver Carp. Our age bias plots indicated that all other structures underestimated age relative to the lapillus otoliths.

Conclusion

Our results indicated that using lapillus otoliths for age estimation of these species would have the highest between-reader agreement and would incur no additional laboratory processing time. However, validation is needed to assess whether lapillus otoliths correctly age these species. From a management perspective, use of this structure would facilitate improved population comparisons.
Analysis of Variable Frequency Stimulation Sacral Neuromodulation for Different Genders: A Chinese Multicentric Prospective Clinical Study
Authors: Wang Jipeng , Zhang Zhipeng , Liu Xiaodong , Wang Jiawen , Li Yan , Shi Benkang , Wang Qingwei , Wei Zhongqing , Song Wei , Niu Yuanjie , Meng Lingfeng , Zhang Yaoguang
Published: September 2024

Aim

Sacral neuromodulation (SNM) is widely recognized as the essential treatment modality for patients suffering from various lower urinary tract disorders, particularly overactive bladder (OAB). This prospective study recruited patients who underwent variable frequency SNM treatment at six Chinese medical centers, aiming to evaluate the gender‐specific effects of this intervention and provide precise guidance on its application for clinical management.

Methods

This prospective study was managed by Beijing Hospital, and six Chinese medical centers participated in this prospective research. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were established to screen patients based on the indication for SNM. During the research, all patients were required to record 72‐h voiding diaries, urgency scores, and visual analogue scale (VAS) scores to reflect their disease symptoms. Additionally, subjective questionnaire surveys such as OAB symptom score (OABSS) and quality‐of‐life (Qol) score were recorded to reflect the patients' quality of life and treatment satisfaction.

Results

In this study, 52 patients (male patients: 25; female patients: 27) with OAB symptoms agreed to undergo variable frequency stimulation SNM therapy and finally convert to Stage II. Regarding the baseline outcomes, no significant differences were observed between the male and female groups. In terms of postoperative indicators, male patients showed a greater improvement in Qol scores compared to their female counterparts (20.06 ± 13.12 vs. 40.83 ± 26.06, p = 0.005). The results from VAS scores indicated that pain remission was more pronounced in male patients than in female patients (0.31 ± 0.87 vs. 1.67 ± 2.16, p = 0.02). Importantly, there was a statistically significant disparity in urinary urgency between males and females (male patients: 1.19 ± 1.56; female patients: 2.17 ± 1.52, p = 0.04).

Conclusions

In our study, we found that variable frequency SNM treatment yielded sex‐specific differences in therapeutic effects, with male patients having a better outcome in some metrics. This suggests that a patient's sex may influence when variable frequency SNM is used, and in the patient's follow‐up.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: ChiCTR2000036677.
Combined Confocal‐Atomic‐Force Microscope Setup for Quantum Sensing Applications with Sub‐diffractional Spatial Resolution
Authors: Trofimov Sergei , Naydenov Boris
Published: September 2024

Quantum sensors find applications ranging from material science to biophysics. Nitrogen‐vacancy (NV) center in diamond has been successfully implemented for measuring various types of signals. Optical NV center readout, routinely used in confocal microscopes, allows achieving high spatial resolution down to the diffraction limit. This work describes in detail the combined confocal‐atomic‐force microscope (confocal‐AFM), which takes advantage of sharp AFM cantilevers, and shows its possible applications for nanoscale resolution. It demonstrates the sub‐diffractional localization of NV centers with platinum‐coated cantilevers and the ability to separately address optically unresolved sensors using cantilevers with ferromagnetic coating. The presented setup exhibits a lateral resolution of 13 nm, providing a tool for nanoscale quantum sensing.
Development of the signal‐to‐noise paradox in subseasonal forecasting models: When? Where? Why?
Authors: Garfinkel Chaim I. , Knight Jeff , Taguchi Masakazu , Schwartz Chen , Cohen Judah , Chen Wen , Butler Amy H. , Domeisen Daniela I. V.
Published: September 2024

Subseasonal forecast models are shown to suffer from the same inconsistency in the signal‐to‐noise ratio evident in climate models. Namely, predictable signals in these models are too weak, yet there is a relatively high level of agreement with observed variability of the atmospheric circulation. The net effect is subseasonal forecast models show higher correlation with observed variability than with their own simulations; that is, the signal‐to‐noise paradox. Also, similar to climate models, this paradox is particularly evident in the North Atlantic sector. The paradox is not evident in week 1 or week 2 forecasts, and hence is limited to subseasonal time‐scales. The paradox appears to be related to an overly fast decay of northern annular mode regimes. Three possible causes of this overly fast decay and for the paradox in the Northern Hemisphere are identified: a too‐fast decay of polar stratospheric signals, overly weak downward coupling from the stratosphere to the surface in some models, and overly weak transient synoptic eddy feedbacks. Though the paradox is clearly evident in the North Atlantic, it is relatively muted in the Southern Hemisphere: southern annular mode regimes persist realistically, the stratospheric signal is well maintained, and eddy feedback is, if anything, too strong and zonal.
Coping with spectral interferences when measuring water stable isotopes of vegetables
Authors: Herbstritt Barbara , Wengeler Lena , Orlowski Natalie
Published: September 2024

Rationale

Laser‐based analyzers are widely used in ecohydrology to analyze plant water isotopic compositions (δ18O and δ2H). The suitability of three different water extraction and isotope equilibration techniques was compared. We examined whether co‐extracted volatile organic compounds (VOCs) affect laser‐based isotope measurements and used the instrument's spectral parameters to post‐correct for interfering VOCs.

Methods

Cryogenic vacuum extraction, vapor headspace equilibration in bags, and vapor equilibration in situ probes were used to extract liquid water or water vapor for laser‐based isotope analysis (cavity ring‐down spectrometry, CRDS). Isotope data were calibrated by standards for each method separately. Spectral parameters of the instrument, appropriate to identify spectral interferences with MeOH and CH4, were identified and used for post‐correction. Differences between the three methods and between the origins of the vegetables were identified by statistical tests.

Results

VOCs were found in various amounts for the three different methods. They were co‐extracted or co‐equilibrated during the different extraction or equilibration methods. Correlation coefficients of isotope data and “CH4” (spectral parameter) were 0.99 or better; however, slopes for δ18O were similar on different instrument types but different for δ2H. Our correction approach improved results and inter‐comparability of the methods considerably without knowing the chemical composition of the plant sap.

Conclusions

All three methods were sensitive enough to distinguish and resolve differences in natural abundance. Data quality was improved by the “CH4 correction” approach but could probably be optimized by a plant species–specific correction. Standardized tools for contaminant removal or post‐correction applications from manufacturers, in particular for vapor‐mode analysis, are still needed.
An overview of nitrogen‐doped MXenes and their recent developments
Authors: Li Dongsheng , Zheng Xu , Boutinaud Philippe , Hu Yihua , Xiao Sanshui , Xu Jie , Wang Chuanlong , Hou Yidong , He Zhiyu , Huang Wei , Kang Fengwen
Published: September 2024

MXenes and their derivatives have attracted tremendous attention over the past few decades, and several reviews have already been dedicated to their synthesis, properties, device functionalities, and performances. Nitrogen (i.e., N), as an important non‐metal element, has been widely reported as an external dopant to improve the properties of MXenes. Herein, we review the recent advances of N‐MXenes, with a significant concern on the impact of N‐doping on the structural and photo‐/electrochemical properties of bulk MXenes, and their emerging applications. The different types of recently reported N‐MXenes and the associations between the N‐doping and the structural characteristics (e.g., the change of atomic lattice and the number and type of active sites, as well as the removal of detrimental functional groups) of MXenes are systematically summarized and discussed, with the aim to highlight the resulting improvements in response to the photo‐/electrochemical and electronic stimuli. Applications of the N‐MXenes in the fields of electrochemistry, photo‐/electrocatalysis, and photosensing are then described. Finally, we summarize this review, and disclose our perspectives on the future opportunities of the N‐MXenes and the potential development challenges of this research branch.
Unveiling the Promotion of Fe in Ni3S2 Catalyst on Charge Transfer for the Oxygen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Song Haoyu , Xiong Xiaolu , Gao Jinxiao , Hu Yue , Yang Qun , Zheng Dehua , Hao Jingxuan , Lin Xiao , Zhang Linjuan , Wang Jian‐Qiang
Published: September 2024

In recent years, catalysts based on transition metal sulfides have garnered extensive attention due to their low cost and excellent electrocatalytic activity in the alkaline oxygen evolution reaction. Here, the preparation of Fe‐doped Ni3S2 via a one‐step hydrothermal approach is reported by utilizing inexpensive transition metals Ni and Fe. In an alkaline medium, Fe–Ni3S2 exhibits outstanding electrocatalytic activity and stability for the OER, and the current density can reach 10 mA cm−2 with an overpotential of 163 mV. In addition, Pt/C||Fe–Ni3S2 is used as the membrane electrode of the anion exchange membrane water electrolyzer, which is capable of providing a current density of 650 mA cm−2 at a cell voltage of 2.0 V, outperforming the benchmark Ir/C. The principle is revealed that the doping of Fe enhances the electrocatalytic water decomposition ability of Ni3S2 by in situ Raman and in situ X‐ray absorption fine structure. The results indicate that the doping of Fe decreases the charge density near Ni atoms, which renders Fe–Ni3S2 more favorable for the adsorption of OH− and the formation of *OO− intermediates. This work puts forward an effective strategy to significantly improve both the alkaline OER activity and stability of low‐cost electrocatalysts.
Steerable Interfacial Assembly of 1D Amyloid‐Like Protein Nanocomposites for Enhanced Nanoherbicide Utilization
Authors: Yu Kai , Chen Liuhao , Zhang Weifeng , Lu Huiling , Jiang Long , Su Wen‐Hao , Pang Huan , Pan Jianming
Published: September 2024

Conventional herbicide formulations suffer from serious problems such as easy drift, run‐off and scouring into the environment, which pose enormous threats to human health and environmental safety. Herein, an innovative strategy is proposed to prepare oil‐in‐water nanoemulsions with long‐term stability, enhanced droplet deposition, and improved nanoherbicide adhesion via steerable interfacial assembly of 1D amyloid‐like protein nanocomposites. Bovine serum albumin (BSA) undergoes rapid amyloid‐like aggregation upon reduction of its disulfide bond. The resulting phase‐transitioned BSA (PTB) oligomers instantly self‐assemble on the surface of cellulose nanofibers (CNF) to form the 1D PTB/CNF nanocomposites, which greatly expands the parameter space for interfacial assembly of amyloid‐like proteins. The PTB/CNF nanocomposites exhibit excellent interfacial activity, enabling spontaneous adsorption at the oil‐water interface to stabilize nanoemulsion. The excess PTB/CNF nanocomposites would also self‐assemble at the air‐aqueous interface upon spraying, resulting in efficient droplet deposition on (super)hydrophobic leaves. The deposited nanoherbicides show excellent resistance to wind/rain corrosion due to the robust amyloid‐mediated adhesion, with a retention rate of more than 80% after severe scouring. Consequently, herbicide applications can be reduced by at least 30% compared to commercial emulsifiable concentrates, showing greater herbicidal efficiency. This study provides novel insights and approaches to promote sustainable agricultural development.