bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chronic low‐dose chromium VI exposure induces oxidative stress and apoptosis with altered expressions of DNA repair genes and promoter hypermethylation in the liver of Swiss albino mice
Authors: Islam Shehnaz , Sarkar Olivia , Mukherjee Sunanda , Kamila Sreejata , Bhowmik Arpan Dey , Chattopadhyay Ansuman
Published: March 2024

The present investigation dealt with harmful effects of hexavalent chromium (Cr [VI]) on liver of Swiss albino mice. This variant exhibited cytotoxicity, mutagenicity, and carcinogenicity. Our study focused on elucidating the hepatotoxic effects of chronic low‐dose exposure to Cr (VI) (2, 5, and 10 ppm) administered via drinking water for 4 and 8 months. The observed elevation in SGPT, ALP, and SGOT and increased oxidative stress markers unequivocally confirmed the severe disruption of liver homeostasis at these low treatment doses. Noteworthy alterations in histoarchitecture, body weight, and water intake provided further evidences of the harmful effects of Cr (VI). Production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) during metabolism led to DNA damages. Immunohistochemistry and qRT‐PCR analyses revealed that chronic low‐dose exposure of Cr (VI) induced apoptosis in liver tissue. Our study exhibited alterations in the expression pattern of DNA repair genes (Rad51, Mutyh, Mlh1, and Ogg1), coupled with promoter hypermethylation of Mutyh and Rad51, leading to transcriptional inhibition. Our findings underscored the potential of low‐dose Cr (VI) exposure on hepatotoxicity by the intricate interplay between apoptosis induction and epigenetic alterations of DNA repair genes.
From zen to stigma: Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism, and their cross‐cultural links to mental health
Authors: Lin Yi‐Ying , Swanson Dena Phillips , Rogge Ronald D.
Published: March 2024

Stigma remains a significant barrier preventing individuals from seeking the support they need, particularly for individuals with East Asian heritages. To explore potential mechanisms, this study examined links from East Asian ideologies to mental health help‐seeking attitudes and peace of mind across five cultural groups: 322 respondents in China, 400 in Japan, 362 in Taiwan, 319 Asian Americans, and 688 white Americans. The three teachings of East Asia accounted for 31%–85% of the cross‐cultural differences in mental health attitudes and peace of mind. Empowering Confucian tenets (self‐cultivation, leading by example, and human heartedness), Taoism, and Buddhism all uniquely predicted greater peace of mind across most of the groups. Empowering Confucianism also predicted lower mental health stigma whereas Buddhism predicted greater stigma. Finally, Restrictive Confucian tenets (e.g., interpersonal harmony, propriety, and relational hierarchy) predicted greater stigma and lower peace of mind. Implications for addressing stigma/resistance within treatment and for promoting mental health across cultures are discussed.
Investigating the perceptions of career development as the Japanese regional quota medical students and graduates in A prefecture
Authors: Suematsu Mina , Inoue Rikako , Takahashi Noriyuki , Miyazaki Kei , Okazaki Kentaro , Miyata Yasushi , Ohashi Wataru , Kuzuya Masafumi
Published: March 2024

Background

There are few reports about the perceptions of the regional quota called Chiikiwaku medical students and graduates.

Method

Eighty‐four medical students and 41 graduates were enrolled in A prefecture. The questionnaire comprised 22 items scored on a 7‐point Likert scale, focusing on perceptions of merit and demerit of Chiikiwaku. The data were collected online.

Results

Chiikiwaku students scored higher on an item such as ‘regional quotas are a solution to the doctor shortage’. Chiikiwaku graduates felt more burdened than Chiikiwaku students.

Conclusion

Our results suggested that the perception of Chiikiwaku was different between Chiikiwaku students and graduates.
N‐Azidoethyl azoles through N‐alkylation under highly harmonized reaction conditions: Synthesis, characterization, and complexation as energetic coordination compounds
Authors: Bauer Lukas , Endraß Simon M. J. , Klapötke Thomas M. , Stierstorfer Jörg , Zeitlmeir Nicole
Published: March 2024

Organic azides are universally important in many areas of chemistry, particularly in organic synthesis. The availability of these azides often depends on specific transfer reagents and reaction conditions, or only work with certain substrates. Customizable transfer reagents offer a safe and direct pathway to desired compounds, thereby increasing the availability of N‐alkyl‐azides. In an effort to streamline the synthesis and broaden the scope of N‐azidoethyl‐containing molecules, three different versatile azidoethyl transfer reagents were synthesized and a uniform reaction protocol with azoles as substrates, including imidazole, pyrazole, 1,2,3‐triazole, 1,2,4‐triazole, and tetrazole was established. The resulting azidoethyl‐azoles were further used as ligands for energetic coordination compounds in an effort to create new lead‐free primary explosives. A comprehensive characterization of the transfer reagents, the azidoethyl‐containing products, and energetic coordination compounds was conducted using multinuclear nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), elemental analysis, mass spectrometry, and infrared spectroscopy (IR). Furthermore, their thermal stability and sensitivity toward friction and impact were determined as well as the detonation properties were calculated by using the EXPLO5 code.
A wellbeing podcast for diagnostic radiography students
Authors: Girard Emily , Punch Amanda , Jimenez Yobelli
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Diagnostic radiography students experience challenges during clinical placements, which have the potential to impact students' emotional wellbeing. This study aimed to explore radiography students' perception of the newly developed podcast series as a wellbeing support tool.

Methods

A mixed methods study was conducted analysing data from listeners, including usage data from the podcast host site, surveys, and focus groups. Usage data was analysed descriptively. A bespoke survey, using a 5‐point Likert scale and fixed‐response questions was analysed descriptively. Two focus groups consisting of ten participants in total were conducted and data was analysed using thematic analysis.

Results

There were 1201 downloads of the ‘Breathe‐in Radiography Podcast’ series across 20 countries and 17 platforms during the study period. A total of 66 complete survey responses demonstrated an overall positive perception of the podcast series. Five main themes were identified from the focus groups: integrated with other activities, accessed when experiencing emotional challenges, relatability to peers, impact on behaviour and mindset, and future podcast content.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated students' positive perceptions of a podcast for support during clinical placement. Further studies are needed to maximise the benefits of podcasting to radiography students and to establish a direct effect of podcasts on student wellbeing.
Early amyloid‐induced changes in microglia gene expression in male APP/PS1 mice
Authors: Oshima Takuya , Kater Mandy S. J. , Huffels Christiaan F. M. , Wesseling Evelyn M. , Middeldorp Jinte , Hol Elly M. , Verheijen Mark H. G. , Smit August B. , Boddeke Erik W. G. M. , Eggen Bart J. L.
Published: March 2024

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease and the most common cause of dementia, characterized by deposition of extracellular amyloid‐beta (Aβ) aggregates and intraneuronal hyperphosphorylated Tau. Many AD risk genes, identified in genome‐wide association studies (GWAS), are expressed in microglia, the innate immune cells of the central nervous system. Specific subtypes of microglia emerged in relation to AD pathology, such as disease‐associated microglia (DAMs), which increased in number with age in amyloid mouse models and in human AD cases. However, the initial transcriptional changes in these microglia in response to amyloid are still unknown. Here, to determine early changes in microglia gene expression, hippocampal microglia from male APPswe/PS1dE9 (APP/PS1) mice and wild‐type littermates were isolated and analyzed by RNA sequencing (RNA‐seq). By bulk RNA‐seq, transcriptomic changes were detected in hippocampal microglia from 6‐months‐old APP/PS1 mice. By performing single‐cell RNA‐seq of CD11c‐positive and negative microglia from 6‐months‐old APP/PS1 mice and analysis of the transcriptional trajectory from homeostatic to CD11c‐positive microglia, we identified a set of genes that potentially reflect the initial response of microglia to Aβ.
Fight Injustice with Darkness: The Effect of Early Life Adversity on Malevolent Creativity Behavior
Authors: Geng Yaoguo , Shi Yibo , Hu Wanying , Jin Wenjing , Zhang Yuwei , Zhan Tingting
Published: March 2024

Two studies were conducted to investigate the relationship between Early Life Adversity and Malevolent Creativity as well as its underlying mechanism. Study 1 established a moderated mediation model to explore the mediating role of Belief in a Just World (BJW) and the moderating role of Dark Triad. A total of 353 college students (Mage = 21.25, SDage = 2.21, 58.9% women) were recruited to fill out questionnaires. The results showed that Early Life Adversity positively predicted Malevolent Creativity behavior and indirectly predicted Malevolent Creativity behavior through BJW. Dark Triad reduced the effects of Early Life Adversity on BJW and intensified the effects of Early Life Adversity on Malevolent Creativity behavior. Study 2 explored the effect of threatening BJW on Malevolent Creativity potential. A total of 180 participants (Mage = 20.53, SDage = 1.7, 64.4% women) were investigated with questionnaires and a Malevolent Creativity Problem‐Solving Task. Study 2 validated study 1 and illustrated that the Malevolent Creativity potential (including fluency, originality, and malevolence) was enhanced when Belief in a Just World was threatened. However, greater fluency was only observed in men. As a whole, these finding emphasizes the important linking role of BJW between Early Life Adversity and Malevolent Creativity, and Dark Triad and gender influence the expression of Malevolent Creativity as well.
Confucian Culture and Enterprise Strategic Change from a Perspective of the Golden Mean Ethics
Authors: Li Chao , Huo Mengjun , Jiang Yushi , Liu Renhuai
Published: March 2024

As an important informal system, the impact of Confucian culture on enterprise strategic change decision‐making and economic and social development is often ignored. By using the OLS method and drawing from publicly listed companies on China's Shanghai and Shenzhen stock markets from 2002 to 2020 as research samples, this article empirically analyzes the relationship between Confucian culture and enterprise strategic change from the perspective of the “golden mean” ethics (a Confucian moral standard and philosophy of conduct). The article also attends to the moderating effects of foreign culture shock and stock rights between the relationship of Confucian culture and enterprise strategic change. A key finding is that the ethical thought of “golden mean” and “harmony” contained in Confucian culture has an inhibitory effect on the initiation of enterprise strategic change. Foreign culture shock positively moderates the relationship between Confucian culture and enterprise strategic change. When “shocked” by dominant foreign cultures, the negative impact of Confucian culture on enterprise strategic change will be weakened. Moreover, unlike previous research findings based on agency theory that suggests how state ownership may retard corporate development, the authors found that in an informal institutional environment with a strong Confucian culture, stock rights can play a positive moderating role in the relationship between Confucian culture and enterprise strategic change. When an enterprise is state‐owned, the inhibitory effect of Confucian culture on enterprise strategic change will be weakened further.
Application of Platysma Myocutaneous Flap in Surgical Repair after T2‐3 Glottic Carcinoma Resection
Authors: Zhu Wenying , Liang Haifeng , Liang Faya , Chen Renhui , Zheng Shibei , Liang Wenting , Guan Zhong , Cai Qian
Published: March 2024

Objective

Numerous methods and materials are available for vertical partial laryngectomy. In this study, the reparative effects of the platysma myocutaneous flap (PMF) and ribbon myocutaneous flap (RMF) on the postoperative voice quality of patients were compared to provide a reference for selecting a method conducive to improving postoperative voice quality.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was performed on patients with unilateral T2‐3 glottic carcinoma. Following vertical partial laryngectomy, the defect was repaired with a PMF or simple RMF. Twelve months after surgery, voice quality was assessed according to voice acoustics, aerodynamics, and subjective perceptual evaluation, and glottic morphology was recorded using a laryngeal stroboscopy.

Results

A total of 70 patients were identified, including 54 in the PMF group and 16 in the RMF group. The PMF group was superior to the RMF group in terms of voice quality assessed by voice acoustics, aerodynamics, and subjective perceptual evaluation. In the PMF group, 72.2% of patients performed phonation with their vocal cords, and approximately 27.8% of patients were affected by supraglottic compression. In the RMF group, 81.3% of patients were affected by supraglottic compression. No significant difference was found in the 5‐year survival rate between the two groups.

Conclusion

For defect repair following vertical partial laryngectomy, a PMF can allow better postoperative voice quality to be achieved than an RMF because a PMF can provide more tissue (including strap muscle under the flap) for padding, which enables the glottic portion corresponding to the vocal cord to close well.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 134:3181–3186, 2024
Changes in built‐up land along slope gradients and their effects on vegetation in the Three Gorges Reservoir Area
Authors: Zhang Haozhe , Yang Qingyuan , Tang Qiang , He Xiubin
Published: March 2024

Built‐up land changes along slope gradients (BCSG) are widespread globally, driven by natural environmental and socio‐economic variations. This process has profound effects on vegetation cover and is closely related to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. However, the mechanisms involved in the BCSG remain to be elucidated, and the impacts of BCSG on vegetation cover need to be quantified. The BCSG from 1990 to 2020 was described through slope spectrum analysis by taking the Three Gorges Reservoir Area (TGRA) as an example. Then, the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) was used as an indicator of vegetation cover, and its influence by BCSG was explored through a multiple linear regression model. The built‐up land in the TGRA from 1990 to 2020 was first dominated by slope climbing (SC) and then by horizontal expansion, and the intensity of built‐up land SC showed a general trend of weakening over time. During the 30 years, the intensity of built‐up land SC weakened and then strengthened in townships with mainly intermountain plains, while gradually decreasing in townships with mainly hills and townships with mainly mountains. Socio‐economic factors, natural factors, and regional special events drive the BCSG in TGRA. Built‐up land SC in the TGRA will have a negative impact on NDVI but to a progressively lesser degree from 1990 through 2020. The built‐up land SC in townships with mainly hills and mountains has a negative effect on NDVI. The built‐up land SC in townships with mainly intermountain plains has a positive impact on NDVI. These results can provide a scientific basis for formulating reasonable vertical management policies for built‐up land and help reduce the ecological risks caused by land development.
Organic fermentative‐humic soil subhorizon (Ofh) as a ‘natural sponge’ of selected trace elements: Does this feature make it a potential geoindicator of temperate soil quality?
Authors: Dołęgowska Sabina , Sołtys Agnieszka , Krzciuk Karina
Published: March 2024

In a temperate climate zone, the outermost part of forest soil forms the organic‐O horizon. It consists of subhorizons of varying thickness, including the organic fermentative‐humic subhorizon (Ofh), which resembles a tobacco tangled mat. The scientific novelty of this project is to evaluate whether the specific structure of the subhorizon‐Ofh makes it a ‘natural sponge’ for trace elements such as Cd, Hg, Pb and Zn, and whether it can be used as a potential geoindicator of soil quality. To test this hypothesis, 110 soil samples (55 from the subhorizon‐Ofh and 55 from the underlying soil horizons‐A [humic] or AE [humic‐eluvial]) were collected from five forest areas located in the south‐central Poland (Świętokrzyskie province). All samples were analysed for Ba, Ca, Cd, Cu, Fe, Hg, K, Mn, Pb, S, Ti and Zn. pH, EC, soil organic matter, total C and N were also measured. Our results confirm that the subhorizon‐Ofh acts like the sponge in relation to Cd, Hg and Zn. Concentrations of these elements are two to four times higher than in the A and AE horizons. Such a relationship is not observed for Pb which predominates in the A horizon. This feature means that analyses of samples from different (sub)horizons can lead to misleading conclusions about soil quality and contamination levels, which have been verified by geochemical factors. Our results can be a starting point for further research into the possible use of the subhorizon‐Ofh as a geoindicator of temperate soil quality in relation to selected trace elements.
Greenhouse gas emissions (CO2–CH4–N2O) along a large reservoir‐downstream river continuum: The role of seasonal hypoxia
Authors: Wu Zetao , Yu Dan , Yu Qibiao , Liu Qian , Zhang Mingzhen , Dahlgren Randy A. , Middelburg Jack J. , Qu Liyin , Li Quanlong , Guo Weidong , Chen Nengwang
Published: March 2024

Recent studies suggest that hypolimnetic respiration may be responsible for greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from deep reservoirs. Currently, quantitative evaluation of aerobic vs. anaerobic processes and priming (enhanced processing of organic matter due to the addition of labile carbon) in regulating GHG production and emissions across the reservoir‐downstream continuum remains largely unknown. High‐resolution, annual time‐series observations in a large, subtropical reservoir (Shuikou) experiencing seasonal hypoxia in southeast China indicate that aerobic hypolimnetic CO2 production dominated in most periods of the stratified spring/summer with higher rates at higher temperatures. In addition, anaerobic production of hypolimnetic CO2 occurred in the late stratified spring/summer period, which stimulated hypolimnetic production of CH4 and N2O. Incubation experiments showed that priming in spring enhanced both aerobic and anaerobic production of excess GHGs. A late spring flood event generated the highest daily efflux of CO2 through the flushing of GHG‐enriched hypolimnion waters. Turbine degassing contributed 59%, 93%, and 63% of annual CO2, CH4, and N2O effluxes, respectively. Moreover, annual downstream GHG emissions were similar to those in the transition/lacustrine zone of the Shuikou reservoir. Diurnal variation observations revealed net CO2 emissions even during algal bloom seasons. The reservoir‐downstream river continuum was a year‐round source of GHGs (218.5 ± 18.9 Gg CO2‐equivalent yr−1; CO2 contributed 91%). However, the loss of oxygen also leads to increased production and storage of recalcitrant dissolved organic carbon (RDOC). Thus, identifying mechanisms controlling both GHG emissions and RDOC production is crucial to constrain the carbon neutrality issue of hydroelectric reservoirs in the context of climate change mitigation strategies.
Sonic branding: A narrative review at the intersection of art and science
Authors: Spence Charles , Keller Steve
Published: March 2024

The field of sonic branding/marketing has grown rapidly in recent years, as has commercial interest in more science‐based approaches to the practice, particularly as more brands and agencies look for qualitative and quantitative evidence to support the efficacy of sonic branding. In this research note, we explore the ways in which the design and execution (i.e., the “art”) of sonic branding initiatives can be informed by overlapping approaches and techniques drawn from the sciences, namely psychoacoustics, semiotics, music/auditory cognition, and crossmodal research. We explore whether the rapid growth of generative AI may represent the next major evolution in the design, creation, and assessment of sonic assets, where science and art are used to train AI tools that could one day augment (and potentially disrupt) the work of human sound designers and composers. These developments notwithstanding, it is argued that sonic branding will likely remain as much an art as a science, though basing one's approach on the emerging scientific literature ought to at least tilt the odds of success in the creative's favor.
ENO1 contributes to the gemcitabine resistance of pancreatic cancer through the YAP1 signaling pathway
Authors: Ma Hongqin , Kong Lulu , Liu Li , Du Yusheng , Zhu Xinguo , Wang Ji , Zhao Wenxing
Published: March 2024

Pancreatic cancer (PC), a leading cause of cancer‐related deaths, has a 5‐year survival rate of approximately 10%. α‐Enolase (ENO1) is a junction channel protein involved in tumor cell apoptosis and chemoresistance. However, the role of ENO1 in PC remains unclear. The expression and prognosis of ENO1 levels were determined in PC using public databases based on The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) data sets. Cell viability, half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50), autophagy, apoptosis, and autophagy markers were examined using cell counting kit‐8 (CCK‐8), transmission electron microscope, flow cytometry assays, and immunoblot, respectively. Using the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) and TCGA data sets, we found that ENO1 was significantly enriched in PC tumor tissues, and high expression levels of ENO1 were associated with an unfavorable prognosis. Whereas ENO1 silencing suppressed proliferation, autophagy, and induced cell apoptosis in PC cells, and inhibited tumor growth in vivo. Mechanistically, knockdown of ENO1 enhanced cellular cytotoxicity of gemcitabine (GEM), as well as reducing the expression of yes‐associated protein 1 (YAP1), a major downstream effector of the Hippo pathway in vitro. YAP1 promoted autophagy and protected PC cells from GEM‐induced apoptotic cell death. Furthermore, YAP1 overexpression attenuated the inhibition effects of ENO1 silencing. Our results suggest that ENO1 overexpression promotes cell growth and tumor progression by increasing the expression of YAP1 in PC. Further studies are required to understand the detailed mechanisms between ENO1 and YAP1 in PC.
Selling formats and platform information sharing under manufacturer competition
Authors: Li Xue , Tong Shilu , Cai Xiaoqiang , Chen Jian
Published: March 2024

Online retail platforms have increasingly utilized big data technologies to gather demand information, which is then shared with upstream manufacturers employing various selling modes, including a hybrid format that encompasses both direct and indirect selling. Previous studies have suggested that platforms should refrain from sharing demand information with manufacturers engaged in indirect selling. In this study, we present a game‐theoretic model to examine the factors influencing the online platform's decision to share information with an indirect selling manufacturer and under what conditions. Our initial analysis, considering exogenous selling formats in the base model, reveals that the platform's information sharing behavior is primarily influenced by selling format structures, commission fee rates, and competition intensity. The platform always has an incentive to share information with direct selling manufacturers; however, under a hybrid selling format, information sharing with indirect selling manufacturers may occur, particularly when both the commission fee rate and competition intensity are relatively high. We extend our investigation to explore the platform's optimal format‐dependent information sharing behavior, accounting for manufacturers' endogenous selling format decisions, and demonstrate the robustness of our main findings from the base model. Overall, our research offers valuable insights and guidelines to assist online platforms in making informed decisions about their information sharing practices.
From diversity to pluralism: Is everyone included?
Authors: Spanu Maja , Gill Laetitia
Published: March 2024

The article discusses the growing recognition of the importance of diversity, equity and inclusion in the philanthropic sector internationally. It explores how diversity goes beyond being a simple ‘buzzword’ and instead reflects the complex demographics and social structures in society. The article emphasises the need for philanthropic organisations to adapt to the world's complexity and address power dynamics and discrimination to fully embrace diversity. The authors highlight concrete methods that can be employed to foster more inclusive practices within organisations. They stress the significance of leadership vision and adaptability, as well as individual self‐reflection, in making progress towards greater inclusion of the diverse voices that make up our societies. Importantly, the article suggests that embracing discomfort and adopting a posture of humility is key for growth and change within organisations. The article discusses tools like the Wheel of Privilege and Power, which helps individuals understand their own privilege and position in society. The authors advocate for rigorously measuring diversity and discrimination in the workplace to develop action plans and implement concrete measures. They believe that research and practice should collaborate to collect and analyse data effectively. The article also mentions the need for collective and open conversations within the philanthropic sector, acknowledging historical inequalities and privileges. Overall, the article emphasises the importance of moving from diversity to pluralism in the philanthropic sector to ensure coherence and greater social justice in the pursuit of deep social change.
Assessment of crista galli morphology and morphometry in individuals with cleft lip and palate: A three‐dimensional analysis
Authors: Ozturk Taner , Soylu Sertan , Cukurluoglu Aykagan
Published: March 2024

Objective

The crista galli (CG), located in the anterior cranial fossa and associated with the cranial structures here, is a bony prominence on the ethmoid bone. In this study, we aimed to examine the anatomical variations and pneumatization status of the CG in individuals with cleft lip and palate (CLP) and to compare them with those of individuals without CLP.

Material and methods

Data from 16‐ to 25‐year‐old individuals with non‐syndromic cleft lip and palate and control individuals without any syndrome or disease who underwent cone beam computed tomography were used. Measurement of the CG height (superoinferior, on the coronal section), width (laterolateral, on the axial section), and length (anteroposterior, on the axial section) dimensions. In addition, a categorical evaluation of CG morphology, CG pneumatization, olfactory fossa depth, and position of the CG in the ethmoid area (Keros classification) was performed.

Results

Although the superoinferior diameter and laterolateral diameter values of the CG did not differ between the groups, the anteroposterior diameter values were found to be significantly (p = 0.047) lower in individuals with CLP (11.95 ± 2.57 mm) compared with control (13.23 ± 2.05 mm). There was no difference in the morphology or pneumatization status of the CG between the groups.

Conclusion

Except for the anteroposterior length, there was no difference in CG morphometric measurements between individuals with CLP and control. The anteroposterior length was shorter in individuals with CLP.
Experimental investigation on the low‐velocity impact response and the residual strength of CFRP tubes
Authors: Wan Yun , Wang Lifu , Liu Yihui , Wu Ye
Published: March 2024

With the help of the high‐speed camera and self‐designed fixture, it was investigated that the effects of the impactors in a variety of shapes on the mechanical behavior and failure mode of carbon fiber‐reinforced polymer (CFRP) tubes with a range of inner diameter during the low‐velocity impact (LVI) of four impact energies. Then, the three‐dimensional digital image correlation (3D‐DIC) system was carried out to monitor the damage evolution of the LVI‐damaged specimens under compressive and flexural loading. In addition, the residual compressive and flexural strength of all kinds of cases were compared and discussed. The results show that the increase in wall thickness can improve the LVI, compression‐after‐impact (CAI), and flexure‐after‐impact performance. The failure mode of compression changes to brittle fracture failure at the impact circumferential region. The CAI strength of the specimen damaged by a flat impactor is 23.89% less than that of a hemispherical one, but there is little difference in flexural loading.

Highlights

Mechanical behavior on in & post LVI of CFRP tubes varying wall thickness and impactor.

Due to point‐line contact for flat impactor, two peak forces are in the F‐D curves.

LVI property and residual strength are improved with the increase of wall thickness.

Compressive failure mode is brittle fracture at the impact circumferential area.

Flexure‐after‐impact strength mainly depends on the no‐impact surface of tubes.
Academician Guodong Cheng's Contributions to Permafrost Science
Authors: Li Xin
Published: March 2024

Permafrost is strongly associated with human well‐being and has become a frontier of cryospheric science. Professor Guodong Cheng is one of the most outstanding geocryologists in China. He was elected as an academician of the Chinese Academy of Sciences in 1993 and served as the president of the International Permafrost Association from 1993–1998. In the early 1980s, Professor Cheng proposed the hypothesis of the repeated‐segregation mechanism for the formation of thick‐layered ground ice near the permafrost table. Subsequently, in the early 2000s, he proposed the “proactive roadbed cooling” concept and led the successful development of a series of specific engineering measures that were fully applied in the Qinghai–Tibet Railway Project. Furthermore, he developed a conceptual model to describe the influences of changing permafrost on the groundwater system and discovered the “sink‐holing effect” (channeling with improved hydraulic conductivity of warming permafrost). Professor Cheng has also developed theories on the three‐dimensional zonation and proposed a classification system and an altitude model for high‐altitude permafrost distribution. On this special occasion of Professor Cheng's 80th birthday, this paper summarizes his outstanding achievements on permafrost science, hoping the permafrost research community will carry forward the momentum to further advance permafrost science worldwide.
Clinical outcomes of multisite moderate to high dose radiotherapy for patients with metastatic melanoma
Authors: Li Kelly H. , Cheung Patrick CF. , Petrella Teresa M. , Zhang Liying , Poon Ian DT. , Menjak Ines B.
Published: March 2024

Background and purpose

This study aimed to summarize the clinical outcomes of patients with metastatic melanoma who received high‐dose radiation prior to or during systemic therapy at a single academic institution.

Methods

We identified patients with metastatic melanoma who underwent high‐dose radiation therapy (HDRT) for extracranial metastases prior to or during systemic therapy from 2010 to 2018. Treatment indications included oligometastases, oligoprogression, and local control. Using the Kaplan‐Meier method, we plotted overall survival (OS), progression‐free survival‐1 (PFS1), and PFS2. Competing risk analysis determined the cumulative incidence of local failure (LF) and the time to start or change systemic therapy (SCST). Univariate and multivariable analyses were used to identify predictive factors.

Results

We analyzed 34 patients with 79 lesions, with a median follow‐up of 17.4 months. Sixty‐eight percent of patients received systemic therapy after the first HDRT. The median OS was 22 months, with brain metastases before HDRT being a significant predictor in multivariable analysis. The median PFS1 for first‐line HDRT was 4.1 months, and the median PFS2 was 3.9 months. Rates of LF were 10.3% at 12 months and 11.7% at 24 months. The incidence of SCST following HDRT was 59.8% at 12 months and 76.1% at 24 months, with radiation targeted at the lung associated with a lower incidence of SCST.

Conclusion

HDRT for treating metastatic lesions in melanoma demonstrated excellent local control and may play a role in delaying SCST. Additional courses of HDRT may provide cumulative benefits.
Comprehensive insights into rheumatoid arthritis: Pathophysiology, current therapies and herbal alternatives for effective disease management
Authors: Chatterjee Amrita , Jayaprakasan Monisha , Chakrabarty Anirban Kr , Lakkaniga Naga Rajiv , Bhatt Bibhuti Nath , Banerjee Dipankar , Narwaria Avinash , Katiyar Chandra Kant , Dubey Sunil Kumar
Published: March 2024

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune inflammatory disease characterized by immune response overexpression, causing pain and swelling in the synovial joints. This condition is caused by auto‐reactive antibodies that attack self‐antigens due to their incapacity to distinguish between self and foreign molecules. Dysregulated activity within numerous signalling and immunological pathways supports the disease's development and progression, elevating its complexity. While current treatments provide some alleviation, their effectiveness is accompanied by a variety of adverse effects that are inherent in conventional medications. As a result, there is a deep‐rooted necessity to investigate alternate therapeutic strategies capable of neutralizing these disadvantages. Medicinal herbs display a variety of potent bioactive phytochemicals that are effective in the complementary management of disease, thus generating an enormous potency for the researchers to delve deep into the development of novel phytomedicine against autoimmune diseases, although additional evidence and understanding are required in terms of their efficacy and pharmacodynamic mechanisms. This literature‐based review highlights the dysregulation of immune tolerance in rheumatoid arthritis, analyses the pathophysiology, elucidates relevant signalling pathways involved, evaluates present and future therapy options and underscores the therapeutic attributes of a diverse array of medicinal herbs in addressing this severe disease.
Mass spectrometry imaging protocol for spatial mapping of lipids, N‐glycans and peptides in murine lung tissue
Authors: Ngai Yuen T. , Briggs Matthew T. , Mittal Parul , Young Clifford , Parkinson‐Lawrence Emma , Klingler‐Hoffmann Manuela , Orgeig Sandra , Hoffmann Peter
Published: March 2024

Rationale

The application of matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry imaging (MALDI‐MSI) to murine lungs is challenging due to the spongy nature of the tissue. Lungs consist of interconnected air sacs (alveoli) lined by a single layer of flattened epithelial cells, which requires inflation to maintain its natural structure. Therefore, a protocol that is compatible with both lung instillation and high spatial resolution is essential to enable multi‐omic studies on murine lung disease models using MALDI‐MSI.

Methods and results

To maintain the structural integrity of the tissue, murine lungs were inflated with 8% (w/v) gelatin for lipid MSI of fresh frozen tissues or 4% (v/v) paraformaldehyde neutral buffer for N‐glycan and peptide MSI of FFPE tissues. Tissues were sectioned and prepared for enzymatic digestion and/or matrix deposition. Glycerol‐free PNGase F was applied for N‐glycan MSI, while Trypsin Gold was applied for peptide MSI using the iMatrixSpray and ImagePrep Station, respectively. For lipid, N‐glycan and peptide MSI, α‐cyano‐4‐hydroxycinnamic acid matrix was deposited using the iMatrixSpray. MS data were acquired with 20 μm spatial resolution using a timsTOF fleX MS instrument followed by MS fragmentation of lipids, N‐glycans and peptides. For lipid MSI, trapped ion mobility spectrometry was used to separate isomeric/isobaric lipid species. SCiLS™ Lab was used to visualize all MSI data. For analyte identification, MetaboScape®, GlycoMod and Mascot were used to annotate MS fragmentation spectra of lipids, N‐glycans and tryptic peptides, respectively.

Conclusions

Our protocol provides instructions on sample preparation for high spatial resolution MALDI‐MSI, MS/MS data acquisition and lipid, N‐glycan and peptide annotation and identification from murine lungs. This protocol will allow non‐biased analyses of diseased lungs from preclinical murine models and provide further insight into disease models.
A unique case of bilateral ventricular infiltration by lung adenocarcinoma with paraneoplastic hypereosinophilia
Authors: Iwabayashi Masaaki , Masuda Takahiro , Tokushige Kosuke , Jinno Hiroko , Tada Kimihide
Published: March 2024

Key message

Existence of poorly differentiated tumour cells or paraneoplastic hypereosinophilia indicates extensive disease progression and poor prognosis in patients with malignancy. When these conditions are present, it is necessary to consider the possibility of intracardiac metastasis even in cases of lung adenocarcinoma.
Fixed‐time Synchronization of Stochastic Kuramoto‐Oscillator Networks With Switching Topology Under Dynamic Event‐triggered Scheme
Authors: Wang Yuanda , Sun Jia , Wu Yongbao , Xue Lei , Liu Jian
Published: March 2024

This paper proposes a dynamic event‐triggered fixed‐time control scheme for the phase synchronization of Kuramoto networks with switching topology and stochastic coupling noise. To deal with the problems of switching topology and stochastic coupling noise, a multilayered control structure with a specially designed noise reduction layer is developed. The effectiveness is proved based on stochastic differential theory. To save communication resources and reduce control frequency, a dynamic event‐triggered mechanism is proposed. By introducing a dynamic variable into the triggering condition, the triggered instants are further reduced compared to the traditional static event‐triggered method. The synchronizing criteria and parameter conditions are established with stochastic Lyapunov stability theory. The analysis of Zeno behavior is also given. Finally, numerical simulation experiments are conducted to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed dynamic event‐triggered control scheme.
Rural electrification in India: A wicked problem
Authors: Dey Payal , Gupta M. P. , Sushil  , Perez‐Arriaga Ignacio J.
Published: March 2024

Despite concerted efforts, several plans and policies of the government addressing rural electrification remained unrealized since India's independence. Although India attained near‐complete grid connectivity in 2018, the problem of inconsistent, unreliable and unaffordable electricity persists, expressly in remote and rural areas. This paper conceptualizes issues of rural electrification in India as a ‘Wicked Problem’ – a systems thinking approach used vastly for understanding complex and multidimensional aspects of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The problem is characterized as a sub‐target of SDG 7 i.e. universal energy access. The stakeholders of rural electrification in India were approached ‐ their feedback was mapped in the power‐interest matrix. A causal loop diagram was prepared that helped in the identification of various themes through balancing and reinforcing loops. This study makes a methodological contribution to conceptual analysis prompting decision‐making through mental models over existing frameworks used for addressing rural electrification in India.
The role of equitable classroom cultures for supporting interest in science
Authors: Singleton Corinne , Deverel‐Rico Clarissa , Penuel William R. , Krumm Andrew E. , Allen Anna‐Ruth , Pazera Carol
Published: March 2024

Supporting student interest in science is critical for broadening participation in the field because interest, even more than achievement, is associated with pursuing future science education and careers. In this study, we explore the conjecture that equitable classroom cultures can support interest in science. Specifically, we examine the idea that science classroom cultures that equitably reflect collective enterprise (where students engage collaboratively in scientific sensemaking) and care (where students believe that they are valued and respected members of the classroom community) support students, particularly those from historically marginalized populations, to develop interest in science. The study is part of a field test of a new middle school science curriculum called OpenSciEd. Data consist of survey responses from 847 students across 34 teachers located in nine states. Our analysis employed mixed‐effects models to accommodate the nested structure of the data. We found that classrooms vary substantially in the degree to which they reflect collective enterprise and care, indicating that classroom culture is a perceptible and consequential feature of the shared classroom environment. Student background did not predict reports of collective enterprise or care, providing evidence that classrooms in our sample were equitable along these dimensions. Critically, collective enterprise and care are both strongly associated with student‐reported interest in science. These findings underscore the importance of attending to classroom culture and the relational aspects of science learning as we seek to expand interest in science, particularly for students from historically marginalized populations.
Finite‐strain poro‐visco‐elasticity with degenerate mobility
Authors: van Oosterhout Willem J. M. , Liero Matthias
Published: March 2024

A quasistatic nonlinear model for poro‐visco‐elastic solids at finite strains is considered in the Lagrangian frame using the concept of second‐order nonsimple materials and Kelvin–Voigt‐type viscosity. The elastic stresses satisfy static frame‐indifference, while the viscous stresses satisfy dynamic frame‐indifference. The mechanical equation is coupled to a diffusion equation for a solvent or fluid content. The latter is pulled‐back to the reference configuration. To treat the nonlinear dependence of the mobility tensor on the deformation gradient, the result by Healey and Krömer is used to show that the determinant of the deformation gradient is bounded away from zero. Moreover, the focus is on the physically relevant case of degenerate mobilities. The existence of weak solutions is shown using a staggered time‐incremental scheme and suitable energy‐dissipation inequalities.
Phase Behaviour of Colloidal Cubes Mixed with Depletants
Authors: Lekkerkerker Henk N. W. , Tuinier Remco , Vis Mark
Published: March 2024

In Chaps. 8 and 9 it was shown that the phase behaviour of anisotropic hard particles is considerably richer than that of hard spheres (see Sect. 3.2). Recent breakthroughs in colloidal synthesis allow the control of particle shapes and properties with high precision. This provides us with a constantly expanding library of new anisotropic building blocks, thus opening new avenues to explore colloidal self-assembly at a higher level of complexity [1, 2]. One of these intriguing novel systems is cube-like colloids. In this chapter, a selective overview is given on the current knowledge of the phase behaviour of cube-like colloids with and without added depletants.
Epilogue
Authors: Lekkerkerker Henk N. W. , Tuinier Remco , Vis Mark
Published: March 2024

This book mainly focuses on basic concepts and model systems; but in reality, soft materials are complex and have a practical impact on our daily lives. These materials make up common products such as pharmaceutical formulations, paints, dairy products and cosmetics [1]. To connect the insights into depletion effects to practical applications, we highlight some of the unresolved questions and future directions that could be pursued.
Phase Behaviour of Colloidal Binary Hard Sphere Mixtures
Authors: Lekkerkerker Henk N. W. , Tuinier Remco , Vis Mark
Published: March 2024

In the previous chapters we considered the effect of added nonadsorbing polymers on the phase behaviour (Chap. 4) and interface (Chap. 5) appearing in suspensions of spherical colloids. The depletion effect is also operational in other types of mixtures, such as binary mixtures composed of large and small (hard) spheres where two big spheres in a sea of small spheres are brought together (Fig. 6.1). As the big spheres get close, the smaller spheres can no longer enter the gap between the big ones. The small particles then push the big spheres together.
Phase Behaviour of Colloidal Hard Spheres Mixed with Hard Rod-Like Colloids
Authors: Lekkerkerker Henk N. W. , Tuinier Remco , Vis Mark
Published: March 2024

In 2.4, it was shown that, when compared to other types of depletants, rod-like colloids give rise to a strong depletion interaction at low concentration (2.124)). As a result, it is also expected that even adding a small amount of rods to a dispersion of colloidal spheres has a significant effect on the phase behaviour.
Critical points in Palatini Higgs inflation with small non-minimal coupling
Authors: Poisson Arthur , Timiryasov Inar , Zell Sebastian
Published: March 2024

Abstract

We investigate inflation driven by the Higgs boson in the Palatini formulation of General Relativity. Our analysis primarily focuses on a small non-minimal coupling of the Higgs field to gravity in the range 0 < ξ ≲ 1. We incorporate the renormalization group running of the relevant parameters as computed within the Standard Model and allow for small corrections. In addition to ξ, our model features two tunable parameters: the low-energy value of the top Yukawa coupling and an effective jump of the Higgs self-interaction. Our results indicate that critical points leading to a large enhancement of the power spectrum can be produced. However, the observed amplitude of perturbations in the CMB cannot be matched within this setting. On the one hand, this makes it difficult to generate a sizable abundance of primordial black holes. On the other hand, our findings can be viewed as very positive since they provide further evidence that Palatini Higgs inflation has favourable high-energy properties due to robustness against quantum corrections.
Inside the NBA Bubble: how Black players performed better without fans
Authors: Caselli Mauro , Falco Paolo , Somekh Babak
Published: March 2024

In the NBA, predominantly Black players play in front of predominantly non-Black fans. Using the “NBA Bubble”, a natural experiment induced by COVID-19, we show that the performance of Black players improved significantly with the absence of fans vis-à-vis White players. This is consistent with Black athletes being negatively affected by racial pressure from mostly non-Black audiences. We control for player, team, and game fixed effects, and dispel alternative mechanisms. Beyond hurting individual players, racial pressure causes significant economic damage to NBA teams by lowering the performance of top athletes and the quality of the game.