bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Surface Engineering of N‐Doped Carbon Derived from Polyaniline for Primary Zinc‐Air Batteries
Authors: Chávez‐Hernández Ángel , Ramos‐Castillo Carlos M. , Olivas Amelia , Delgado Anabel D. , Guerra‐Balcázar Minerva , Álvarez‐Contreras Lorena , Arjona Noé
Published: July 2024

Zinc‐air batteries (ZABs) with metal‐free cathodes are considered environmentally friendly and cost‐effective. However, more active and durable catalysts are required for this purpose. Herein, polyaniline (PANI)‐derived carbon materials were obtained to boost the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and, consequently, the performance of a primary ZAB. The developed porous N‐doped carbon (NDC) materials were engineered by varying the polymerization time and calcination temperature (500–900 °C). SEM micrographs and BET surface areas showed that the polymerization of aniline under cold conditions (5 °C) at 6, 8, or 24 h did not have a significant effect on the morphology or surface area. The fibrous structure of PANI was engineered by temperature, resulting in a progressive increase in the surface area until a three‐dimensional porous structure was achieved at 900 °C with the highest area of 601.9 m2 g−1. The surface doping of nitrogen species shifted from PANI‐rich N species to enriched graphitic N from 12.69 % (500 °C) to 24.26 % at 900 °C. The NDC 900 °C presented a voltage of 1.4 V and power density of 56 mW cm−2 (only 7 mW cm−2 lower than that of Pt/C). The results demonstrate that this material is an excellent candidate for high‐performance primary ZABs.
Fe,Ce Co‐Doped Ni3S2/NiS Polymorphism Nanosheets With Improved Electrocatalytic Activity and Stability for Water Oxidation
Authors: Wang Shaoxia , Li Huihui , Li Shifeng , Ni Yonghong
Published: July 2024

Balancing the relationship between electrocatalytic activity and stability of sulfide catalysts during oxygen evolution reaction (OER) has been attracting extensive research interest. Here, a simple electrodeposition‐vulcanization two‐step route was designed to successfully construct nickel foam supported sheet‐like Fe,Ce‐codoped Ni3S2/NiS polymorphism catalyst (labeled as Fe,Ce‐Ni3S2/NiS/NF). Electrochemical measurements showed that the as‐obtained Fe,Ce‐Ni3S2/NiS/NF electrode presented excellent OER electrocatalytic performances. In 1 M KOH solution, merely 173 and 234 mV of overpotentials were required to deliver the current densities of 10 and 100 mA cm−2, respectively. Further investigations revealed that the Fe,Ce co‐doping regulated the electron density around Ni, which promoted the conversion of Ni towards the higher valence state and simultaneously, avoided the stability decrease of the catalyst caused by excessive oxidation corrosion. Moreover, the defects generated during vulcanization also contributed to promoting water oxidation. The present work provides a facile and feasible approach to balance the relationship between the stability and the activity of sulfide catalysts for OER.
A Room‐Temperature All‐Solid‐State Na−Ag Battery with a Long Cycle Life and Low Overpotential
Authors: Zhan Xiaoyi , Cui Fenwei , Luo Yunhong , Zhang Hui , Yang Yunxiao , Zhou Qin , Huang Yifan , Li Yimin , Liu Zhi
Published: July 2024

Aqueous Zn−Ag batteries have been developed and commercialized for nearly a century, offering stable discharge and high specific energies. Sodium, with its lower redox potential, smaller charge‐to‐mass ratio, and abundant resources, presents a promising alternative to zinc. In this study, we successfully developed an all‐solid‐state Na−Ag battery system. This battery demonstrates stable discharge and charge voltages, low overpotential (0.27 V), high energy efficiency (>91 %), and long cycle life under moderate humidity at room temperature. The reaction mechanism was elucidated through combined analyses using differential electrochemical mass spectrometry (DEMS), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Our findings indicate that metallic Ag in the cathode materials acts as an effective catalyst for the oxygen reduction reaction during the initial discharge process, forming NaOH as the discharge product. Ag is then oxidized during the charging process and recovered during discharge, serving as an active reactant in the Na−Ag battery. This work demonstrates superior performance of all‐solid‐state Na−Ag battery over aqueous Zn−Ag battery. Na−Ag battery may be of interest in applications with stringent requirements on stable discharge voltage and high specific energy.
Engineering of Charge Density at the Anode/Electrolyte Interface for Long‐Life Zn Anode in Aqueous Zinc Ion Battery
Authors: Wu Kai , Liu Xiaoyu , Ning Fanghua , Subhan Sidra , Xie Yihua , Lu Shigang , Xia Yongyao , Yi Jin
Published: July 2024

The aqueous zinc ion battery emerges as the promising candidate applied in large‐scale energy storage system. However, Zn anode suffers from the issues including Zn dendrite, Hydrogen evolution reaction and corrosion. These challenges are primarily derived from the instability of anode/electrolyte interface, which is associated with the interfacial charge density distribution. In this context, the recent advancements concentrating on the strategies and mechanisms to regulate charge density at the Zn anode/electrolyte interface are summarized. Different characterization techniques for charge density distribution have been analysed, which can be applied to assess the interfacial zinc ion transport. Additionally, the charge density regulations at the Zn anode/electrolyte interface are discussed, elucidating their roles in modulating electrostatic interactions, electric field, structure of solvated zinc ion and electric double layer, respectively. Finally, the perspectives and challenges on the further research are provided to establish the stable anode/electrolyte interface by focusing on charge density modifications, which is expected to facilitate the development of aqueous zinc ion battery.
Evolution of sex‐biased genes in Drosophila species with neo‐sex chromosomes: Potential contribution to reducing the sexual conflict
Authors: Minovic Anika , Nozawa Masafumi
Published: July 2024

An advantage of sex chromosomes may be the potential to reduce sexual conflict because they provide a basis for selection to operate separately on females and males. However, evaluating the relationship between sex chromosomes and sexual conflict is challenging owing to the difficulty in measuring sexual conflict and substantial divergence between species with and without sex chromosomes. We therefore examined sex‐biased gene expression as a proxy for sexual conflict in three sets of Drosophila species with and without young sex chromosomes, the so‐called neo‐sex chromosomes. In all sets, we detected more sex‐biased genes in the species with neo‐sex chromosomes than in the species without neo‐sex chromosomes in larvae, pupae, and adult somatic tissues but not in gonads. In particular, many unbiased genes became either female‐ or male‐biased after linkage to the neo‐sex chromosomes in larvae, despite the low sexual dimorphism. For example, genes involved in metabolism, a key determinant for the rate of development in many animals, were enriched in the genes that acquired sex‐biased expression on the neo‐sex chromosomes at the larval stage. These genes may be targets of sexually antagonistic selection (i.e., large size and rapid development are selected for in females but selected against in males). These results indicate that acquiring neo‐sex chromosomes may have contributed to a reduction in sexual conflict, particularly at the larval stage, in Drosophila..
Bioimpedance analysis predicts worsening events in outpatients with heart failure and reduced ejection fraction
Authors: Rodríguez‐López Carlos , Balaguer Germán Jorge , Venegas Rodríguez Ana , Carda Barrio Rocío , Gaebelt Slocker Hans Paul , Pello Lázaro Ana María , López Castillo Marta , Soler Bonafont Bárbara , Recio Vázquez Mónica , Taibo Urquía Mikel , González Piña María , González Parra Emilio , Tuñón José , Aceña Álvaro
Published: July 2024

Aims

Heart failure (HF) with reduced left ventricle ejection fraction (LVEF) is an entity with poor prognosis characterized by decompensations. Bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) is used to assess volume overload (VO) and may be useful to identify apparently stable HF outpatients at risk of decompensation. The aim of this study is to analyse whether VO assessed by BIA is associated with worsening heart failure (WHF) in stable outpatients with HF and reduced LVEF (HFrEF).

Methods and results

This is a prospective single‐centre observational study. Consecutive stable HF outpatients with LVEF below 40% underwent BIA, transthoracic echocardiography, blood sampling, and physical examination and were followed up for 3 months. VO was defined as the difference between the measured weight and the dry weight assessed by BIA. Demographic, clinical, anthropometric, echocardiographic, and analytical parameters were recorded. The primary endpoint was WHF, defined by visits to the emergency department for HF or hospitalization for HF. A total of 100 patients were included. The median VO was 0.5 L (interquartile range 0–1.6 L). Eleven patients met the primary endpoint. Univariate binary logistic regression analysis showed that left ventricle filling pressures assessed by E/e′, N‐terminal pro B‐type natriuretic peptide, inferior vena cava dilatation (≥21 mm), signs of congestion, and VO were associated with the primary endpoint. Binary logistic regression multivariate analysis showed that VO was the only independent predictor for the primary endpoint (adjusted OR 2.7; 95% CI 1.30–5.63, P = 0.008). Multivariate Cox regression analysis also showed an adjusted hazard ratio (HR) for VO of 2.03; 95% CI 1.37–3.02, P < 0.001. Receiver‐operating characteristic curve analysis showed an area under the curve for VO of 0.88 (95% CI 0.79–0.97, P < 0.001) with an optimal cut‐off of 1.2 L.

Conclusions

VO assessed by BIA is independently associated with WHF in stable outpatients with HFrEF at 3 months.
High‐Hydrophilic NiCoFe–OH Accelerates Charge Interfacial Transfer and Enhances Photoelectrochemical Properties of α‐Fe2O3
Authors: Zhang Bin , Ruan Mengnan , Wang Chengyi , Zhong Tingting , Liu Zhifeng
Published: July 2024

α‐Fe2O3/NiCoFe–OH photoelectrode with high hydrophilicity is obtained by hot alkali etching on the surface of α‐Fe2O3/NiCoFe–LDH. Compared with α‐Fe2O3/NiCoFe–LDH (CO3(OH)16·4H2O), α‐Fe2O3/NiCoFe‐OH photoelectrodes with high hydrophilicity show better photocurrent performance. This improvement is attributed to the highly hydrophilic NiCoFe–OH promoting effective contact between the photoelectrode and the electrolyte, thus enhancing effective carrier separation and migration on the electrode. In these findings, an effective way is provided to improve the photoelectrochemical properties of α‐Fe2O3.
Exploring the Impact of Lanthanum on Sodium Manganese Oxide Cathodes: Insight into Electrochemical Performance
Authors: Whba Rawdah , Altundag Sebahat , Aydin Mustafa Göktan , Kalyoncuoglu Burcu , Ozgul Metin , Depci Tolga , Altin Serdar , Sahinbay Sevda
Published: July 2024

This investigation focuses on nominally La‐doped Na0.67MnO2, exploring its structural, electrochemical, and battery characteristics for Na‐ion batteries. X‐ray diffraction analysis reveals formation of composite materials containing three distinct phases: P2‐Na0.67MnO2, NaMn8O16, and LaMnO3. The bond structures of the powders undergo scrutiny through Fourier‐transform infrared and Raman analyses, revealing dependencies on the NaO, MnO, and LaO structures. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy and energy‐dispersive X‐ray dot mapping analyses show that the La ions are unevenly dispersed within the samples, exhibiting a valence state of 3+. Half‐cell tests unveil similarities in redox peaks between the cyclic voltammetry analysis of La‐doped samples and P2‐type Na0.67MnO2, with a reduction in peak intensities as La content increases. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy model analysis indicates direct influences of La content on the half‐cell's resistive elements values. The synergistic effect of composite material with multiple phases yields promising battery performances for both half and full cells. The highest initial capacity value of 208.7 mAh g−1, with a 57% capacity fade, among others, is observed, and it diminishes with increasing La content. Full cells are constructed using an electrochemically presodiated hard carbon anode, yielding a promising capacity value of 184.5 mAh g−1 for sodium‐ion battery studies.
The timed 100 mL water swallow test for patients with head and neck cancer: What constitutes a clinically significant difference?
Authors: Altamimi Jenan A. , Wilson Janet A. , Roe Justin , Patterson Joanne M.
Published: July 2024

Objectives

Swallowing function in patients with head and neck cancer (HNC) is often assessed pre‐treatment, during and at intervals post‐treatment to identify those with dysphagia as early as possible. This study aims to investigate the minimal clinical important difference (MCID) for the 100 mL water swallow test (100 mL WST) to increase its utility in clinical practice and in clinical trials.

Methods

Data from 211 HNC patients, treated by either single or combined modality were included. Patients completed both the 100 mL WST and M.D. Anderson Dysphagia Inventory (MDADI) at baseline (i.e., prior to treatment) and 12 months post‐treatment. The MCID for the 100 mL WST was calculated using two approaches of the anchor‐based method (using the MDADI), including mean change, and ROC curve. Additionally, the distribution‐based method was used utilizing the half standard deviation approach.

Results

In the anchor‐based method, a 4 mL/s in the 100 mL WST was defined as an MCID for deterioration, with a sensitivity of 75% and a 1‐specificity of 46%. In contrast, a change of 5 mL/s was deemed as an MCID for improvement, based on the distribution‐based method.

Conclusion

The findings showed that deterioration of 4 mL, or an increase of 5 mL from baseline to 12 months post‐HNC treatment equates to an MCID from the patients' perspective. Based on these findings, it may be beneficial to increase the utilization of the 100 mL WST in clinical practice to observe the changes, and in clinical trials to interpret and compare different study arms.
Circulating levels of galectin‐9 are a potential biomarker of survival in advanced non‐small‐cell lung cancer
Authors: Filho Guilherme Vieira de Mendonça , Costa Guilherme Jorge , Martins Mario R. , Torres Leuridan C.
Published: July 2024

Background

The immune system is recognized to have therapeutic potential to destroy cancer cells. Soluble T‐cell immunoglobulin mucin domain‐3 (sTIM‐3) and its ligand galectin 9 (Gal‐9) cause suppression of cytokine production, cell cycle arrest and cell death. sTIM‐3 and Gal‐9 levels may have prognostic implications in non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients.

Methods

This prospective cohort study was performed at Instituto de Medicina Integral Prof. Fernando Figueira, Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil. Fifty‐eight patients were diagnosed with advanced NSCLC from January 2019 to January 2020.

Results

The age median was of 64.0 years. Soluble galectin‐9 (sGal‐9) levels in the smokers compared to nonsmoker patients (p < 0.0001). By using the receiver operating characteristic curve, we found that a baseline of 1694 pg/mL (cutoff). sGAL9 with specificity (72.2%), sensitivity (83.2%) and area under the curve = 0.8497 (p < 0.0004). Until 18.2 months, 46.8% and 72.9% were alive in the sGAL9low and sGAL9high groups, respectively (log‐rank test; p = 0.02). The median survival was 15.9 months for sGAL9low (≤1694 pg/mL).

Conclusion

This study indicated an association of tobacco with the release of circulating sGal‐9 levels and the accuracy of sGal‐9 as a potential biomarker predictive of survival time in advanced NSCLC patients. Furthermore, sGal‐9 has may be a potential therapeutic target in the advanced NSCLC.
Reconstruction of Defects After Oral Cancer Surgery With the Superior Thyroid Artery Perforator Flap
Authors: Shi Yan , Lyu Xiao‐Ming , Wang Wei , Yan Han , Wu Wen‐Jie , Huang Ming‐Wei
Published: July 2024

Objective

The superior thyroid artery perforator flap (STAPF) was previously presented as a type of locoregional pedicled flap for lateral facial and temple defects. In this study, we aimed to present our clinical experience with this flap for the reconstruction of soft tissue defects after oral cancer surgery.

Methods

From February 2019 to December 2022, 24 patients with oral cancers at the School and Hospital of Stomatology, Peking University were included. Among these patients, 10 had cancers located in the tongue, five in the cheek inside the oral cavity, three in the lower gingiva, two in the upper gingiva, two in the floor of the mouth, and two in the palate. All patients were treated with extended tumor resection, neck dissection, and STAPFs to reconstruct the soft tissue defects. The details of the flap, including the flap size, venous flow, vascular pedicle length, the attatched muscle, and operation time were evaluated.

Results

The dimensions of the flap skin paddle ranged from 3 cm × 5 cm to 6 × 14 cm. Fourteen patients had a closely concomitant superior thyroid vein perforator. Ten patients had non‐closely concomitant superior thyroid veins perforators which retrograde external jugular vein. The vascular pedicle length ranged from 5 to 9 cm. The infrahyoid muscle group or sternocleidomastoid muscle was included in the flaps in three patients. A total of 23/24 flaps were successful.

Conclusions

The STAPF is a viable reconstructive option for patients with oral cancers. It has the advantages of being robust, being thin, short operation time, and minor donor site complications.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 2024
Does regional culture of integrity impact corporate total factor productivity? Evidence from China
Authors: Liu Yejin , Lu Jinjing , Luo Chunhua
Published: July 2024

This study examined Chinese A‐share listed companies in Shanghai and Shenzhen from 2016 to 2020 to explore the relationship between regional culture of integrity (COI) and enterprise total factor productivity (TFP) and the internal mechanism of regional COI on TFP. The findings showed that regional COI is conducive to promotion of TFP. The mechanism test revealed that optimizing the business environment, promoting corporate technological innovation, and reducing transaction costs are three essential mechanisms. Further, the results indicated that the enhancement effect of regional COI on TFP is more significant in non‐SOEs and enterprises with high financing constraints.
Vicarious learning from peer innovation failures: The moderating effects of venture capital syndication networks
Authors: Tao Xiaohui , Huang Yitao , Guan Peifeng , Meng Yao , Huisingh Donald
Published: July 2024

Firms can derive insights not only from their own failures but also from the innovation failures of counterparts in the same industry. This study investigates how 109 Chinese A‐share listed high‐tech firms (2013–2022) learn from counterparts' innovation failures to improve their success rate of innovation and emphasizes the crucial role of venture capital (VC) syndication networks in facilitating knowledge transfer. Central VCs within the network notably enhance vicarious learning from others' failures. Further empirical analysis shows a significant increase in the success rate of exploitative innovations, while the impact on exploratory innovations is minimal.
Exploring ethnicity and gender discrimination in judging resume fraud and counterproductive workplace behavior
Authors: Shtudiner Zeev , Fishman Arthur
Published: July 2024

The impact of ethnicity and gender on employment and income disparities in the labor market has been extensively studied, revealing patterns of discrimination. We focus on these specific attributes as potential influencers of perceptions regarding resume fraud and counterproductive behavior in the workplace. In our research, 1002 participants reviewed CVs of prospective job candidates and were subsequently informed about various instances of resume fraud and counterproductive behavior exhibited by the candidates. The names of the candidates were selected to reflect distinct ethnic origins and genders. Our findings indicate the presence of ethnic discrimination. Specifically, individuals within each ethnic group tended to evaluate candidates from their own group with less severity compared to candidates from the opposite group. We did not uncover any indications of gender bias; both male and female candidates were assessed in a similar manner. Our findings uncover ethnicity‐based discrimination in the evaluation of negative behavior within the workplace.
A review on photonic‐assisted dual‐chirp microwave waveform generation methods
Authors: Kumar Chandan , Raghuwanshi Sanjeev Kumar , Yadav R. K.
Published: July 2024

In recent times, photonic synthesis and processing of arbitrary microwave waveforms have gained interest due to their high frequency and huge time–bandwidth product. This study reviews methods for producing dual‐chirp microwave waveforms, focusing mostly on system topologies based on external modulation techniques, such as cascaded Mach–Zehnder modulator (MZM), dual parallel MZM, and dual polarized MZM. Other photonic approaches, like using semiconductor laser and optical heterodyne detection methods, are also discussed. These techniques are preferable because of high frequency, enhanced time–bandwidth product, greater chirp rate, and many more advantages. Additionally, the difficulties associated with integrating the systems into real‐world applications are also addressed.
Preparation‐based B 1+ mapping in the heart using Bloch–Siegert shifts
Authors: Šiurytė Paulina , Tourais Joao , Zhang Yi , Coletti Chiara , van de Steeg‐Henzen Christal , Mandija Stefano , Tao Qian , Henningsson Markus , Weingärtner Sebastian
Published: July 2024

Purpose

To develop and evaluate a robust cardiac mapping sequence at 3 T, using Bloch–Siegert shift (BSS)‐based preparations.

Methods

A longitudinal magnetization preparation module was designed to encode . After magnetization tip‐down, off‐resonant Fermi pulses, placed symmetrically around two refocusing pulses, induced BSS, followed by tipping back of the magnetization. Bloch simulations were used to optimize refocusing pulse parameters and to assess the mapping sensitivity. Relaxation‐induced error was simulated for various / times. The effective mapping range was determined in phantom experiments, and maps were compared to the conventional BSS method and subadiabatic hyperbolic‐secant 8 (HS8) pulse‐sensitized method. Cardiac maps were acquired in healthy subjects, and evaluated for repeatability and imaging plane intersection consistency. The technique was modified for three‐dimensional (3D) acquisition of the whole heart in a single breath‐hold, and compared to two‐dimensional (2D) acquisition.

Results

Simulations indicate that the proposed preparation can be tailored to achieve high mapping sensitivity across various ranges, with maximum sensitivity at the upper range. /‐induced bias did not exceed 5.2. Experimentally reproduced sensitization closely matched simulations for (mean difference 0.0310.022, compared to 0.0180.025 in the HS8‐sensitized method), and showed 20‐fold reduction in the standard deviation of repeated scans, compared with conventional BSS mapping, and an equivalent 2‐fold reduction compared with HS8‐sensitization. Robust cardiac map quality was obtained, with an average test‐retest variability of 0.0270.043 relative to normalized magnitude, and plane intersection bias of 0.0520.031. 3D acquisitions showed good agreement with 2D scans (mean absolute deviation 0.0550.061).

Conclusion

BSS‐based preparations enable robust and tailorable 2D/3D cardiac mapping at 3 T in a single breath‐hold.
Accelerating multipool CEST MRI of Parkinson's disease using deep learning–based Z‐spectral compressed sensing
Authors: Chen Lin , Xu Haipeng , Gong Tao , Jin Junxian , Lin Liangjie , Zhou Yang , Huang Jianpan , Chen Zhong
Published: July 2024

Purpose

To develop a deep learning–based approach to reduce the scan time of multipool CEST MRI for Parkinson's disease (PD) while maintaining sufficient prediction accuracy.

Method

A deep learning approach based on a modified one‐dimensional U‐Net, termed Z‐spectral compressed sensing (CS), was proposed to recover dense Z‐spectra from sparse ones. The neural network was trained using simulated Z‐spectra generated by the Bloch equation with various parameter settings. Its feasibility and effectiveness were validated through numerical simulations and in vivo rat brain experiments, compared with commonly used linear, pchip, and Lorentzian interpolation methods. The proposed method was applied to detect metabolism‐related changes in the 6‐hydroxydopamine PD model with multipool CEST MRI, including APT, CEST@2 ppm, nuclear Overhauser enhancement, direct saturation, and magnetization transfer, and the prediction performance was evaluated by area under the curve.

Results

The numerical simulations and in vivo rat‐brain experiments demonstrated that the proposed method could yield superior fidelity in retrieving dense Z‐spectra compared with existing methods. Significant differences were observed in APT, CEST@2 ppm, nuclear Overhauser enhancement, and direct saturation between the striatum regions of wild‐type and PD models, whereas magnetization transfer exhibited no significant difference. Receiver operating characteristic analysis demonstrated that multipool CEST achieved better predictive performance compared with individual pools. Combined with Z‐spectral CS, the scan time of multipool CEST MRI can be reduced to 33% without distinctly compromising prediction accuracy.

Conclusion

The integration of Z‐spectral CS with multipool CEST MRI can enhance the prediction accuracy of PD and maintain the scan time within a reasonable range.
Clinical and pathological characteristics of OPDM4 patients in advanced disease
Authors: Tang Haixia , Xiong Ying , Jiang Kaiyan , Shen Yu , Yu Yanyan , Huang Pengcheng , Zhu Min , Li Xiaobing , Zheng Yilei , Zhou Meihong , Yu Jiaxi , Deng Jianwen , Wang Zhaoxia , Hong Daojun , Qiu Yusen , Tan Dandan
Published: July 2024

Introduction/Aims

Oculopharyngodistal myopathy type 4 (OPDM4) arises from a CGG repeat expansion in the 5′ UTR of the RILPL1 gene. Reported cases of OPDM4 have been limited. The aim of this study was to investigate the clinical and myopathological characteristics of OPDM4 patients with advanced disease.

Methods

We assessed a total of 8 affected and 12 unaffected individuals in an OPDM4 family with autosomal dominant inheritance. Muscle biopsy tissue from the proband underwent histological, enzyme histochemical, and immunohistochemical stains, and electron microscopy analysis. Whole exome sequencing and repeat primer PCR (RP‐PCR) were conducted to investigate underlying variants.

Results

OPDM4 patients displayed a progressive disease course. Most experienced lower limb weakness and diminished walking ability in their 20s and 30s, followed by ptosis, ophthalmoplegia, swallowing difficulties, and dysarthria in their 30s to 50s, By their 50s to 70s, they became non‐ambulatory. Muscle magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the proband in advanced disease revealed severe fatty infiltration of pelvic girdle and lower limb muscles. Biopsied muscle tissue exhibited advanced changes typified by adipose connective tissue replacement and the presence of multiple eosinophilic and p62‐positive intranuclear inclusions. Immunopositivity for the intranuclear inclusions was observed with anti‐glycine antibody and laboratory‐made polyA‐R1 antibody. RP‐PCR unveiled an abnormal CGG repeat expansion in the 5′ UTR of the RILPL1 gene.

Discussion

The clinical and radiological features in this family broaden the phenotypic spectrum of OPDM4. The presence of intranuclear inclusions in the proliferative adipose connective tissues of muscle biopsy specimens holds diagnostic significance for OPDM4 in advanced disease.
Structural changes and contractility in muscle assessed by magnetic resonance imaging in individuals with ryanodine receptor 1‐related rhabdomyolysis or myalgia
Authors: Lyu Zhe , Solheim Tuva Åsatun , Poulsen Nanna Scharff , Eisum Anne‐Sofie Vibæk , Beha Gry Hatting , Fornander Freja , Andersen Annarita Ghosh , Witting Nanna , Vissing John
Published: July 2024

Introduction/Aims

Ryanodine receptor 1 (RYR1)‐related myopathies associated with variants in the RYR1 gene present with a wide range of symptoms and severity. Two of the milder phenotypes associated with dominant pathogenic variants in RYR1 are rhabdomyolysis and myalgia. Only a few studies have investigated the muscle function and structure of individuals with RYR1‐related rhabdomyolysis/myalgia objectively, showing inconsistent results. This study aimed to describe structural changes and contractility of muscles in individuals with RYR1‐related rhabdomyolysis/myalgia.

Methods

We investigated 15 individuals with dominant variants in the RYR1‐gene and compared them with 15 age‐, sex‐, and body mass index (BMI)‐matched controls using MRI, stationary isokinetic dynamometry, and comprehensive clinical evaluation.

Results

No significant differences were found between individuals with RYR1‐related rhabdomyolysis/myalgia and healthy controls in peak torque, fat fraction, cross‐sectional area, contractile cross‐sectional area, or contractility (p > .05) in muscles of the lower back (MRI data only), thigh, or calf. On clinical examination, three individuals exhibited weakness in hip or back extension on the Medical Research Council (MRC) test and eight had muscle hypertrophy. Individuals with weakness were not hypertrophic.

Discussion

Most individuals with RYR1‐related rhabdomyolysis/myalgia have close to normal strength, and normal fat fraction and contractility of muscles, and therefore constitute a mild phenotype of RYR1‐related myopathies.
Solar arrays create novel environments that uniquely alter plant responses
Authors: Sturchio Matthew A. , Kannenberg Steven A. , Pinkowitz Tillie A. , Knapp Alan K.
Published: July 2024

Societal Impact Statement

Globally, the combustion of fossil fuels represents the vast majority of greenhouse gas emissions, and as such, a transition to renewable forms of energy provides the greatest potential for mitigating climate warming. Although solar photovoltaic energy generation is a leading climate solution, these energy facilities have a significant spatial footprint. Naturally, concerns regarding the coexistence of solar development in agriculturally productive and pristine native ecosystems remain. This study offers insight for how plants respond to novel environmental conditions within a solar array and contextualizes results to inform future array siting, design, and management to realize a sustainable solar energy future.

Photovoltaic (PV) solar arrays impose dynamic shading regimes and redistribute precipitation to the ecosystems beneath, leading to spatial and temporal heterogeneity in plant growth environments. Although PV are known to alter ecosystem‐level processes in managed and native landscapes, the control of PV‐induced microenvironments on plant ecophysiological responses are largely unexplored. A more robust and mechanistic understanding of how PV microenvironments control plant response will inform management of existing solar arrays and provide insight for future arrays designed to enhance ecosystem services.

Here, we evaluated carbon (photosynthetic parameters) and water relations (daily patterns of leaf water potential (ψL) and stomatal conductance (gsw)) in a C3 perennial grass (Bromus inermis) across PV microsites within a 1.6 ha (1.2 MW) array in semiarid Colorado, USA.

Light‐saturated photosynthetic rate was surprisingly consistent spatially, not differing between plants growing in near full sun (between PV rows) versus those growing in shadier microsites beneath panels (~28% of full sunlight). Additionally, plants located in microsites receiving only direct sunlight in the morning, when air temperature and vapor pressure deficits (VPD) were low, had greater ψL and gsw than plants receiving direct sunlight primarily in the hotter drier afternoon.

Thus, while soil moisture is a primary control of plant productivity in most water‐limited grasslands, we found that VPD was a better predictor of daily patterns of leaf‐level photosynthetic and water relations responses that control aboveground biomass production in a PV array. These findings provide new mechanistic insight for evaluating vegetation management strategies in semiarid PV arrays.
Do Prostate Imaging‐Reporting and Data System (PIRADS) lesions predict holmium laser enucleation of prostate outcomes?
Authors: Tsai Kyle , Xu Perry , Guo Jenny , Dean Nicholas , Khondakar Nabila , Michael Jamie , Neill Clayton , Krambeck Amy
Published: July 2024

Introduction and Objectives

Prostate magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is used for prostate cancer (PCa) screening and risk stratification and is helpful for surgical planning for patients undergoing holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP). There are few studies investigating the correlation between MRI Prostate Imaging‐Reporting and Data System (PIRADS) lesion characteristics and HoLEP pathology and outcomes.

Methods

We performed retrospective review of patients who underwent HoLEP between January 2021 and August 2023 by a single surgeon. Preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative characteristics and outcomes were analyzed for all patients who had a documented preoperative prostate MRI.

Results

There were 334 patients without a pre‐existing diagnosis of PCa and with a preoperative prostate MRI, of which 140 (42%) had at least one PIRADS lesion. There was a total of 203 PIRADS lesions: 91 (45%) in the peripheral zone (PZ), 106 (52%) in the transition zone (TZ), and 6 (2%) not specified. Incidental PCa was noted in 44 (13%) patients at time of HoLEP. Presence or location of lesion was not significantly associated with rate or grade of incidental PCa on pathology. Greater number of lesions and lesion size correlated with longer procedure times. Lesion number, size, or grade were not found to correlate with cancer grade or rate of cancer.

Conclusions

Grade, presence, location, size, and number of PIRADS lesions on preoperative prostate MRI for patients with an appropriate prior PCa workup were not significantly associated with incidental PCa or higher PCa grade on HoLEP pathology.
Hebrew–Russian Bilingual Children's Early Literacy Skills: The Roles of the Home Literacy Environment and Mothers' Writing Support
Authors: Minkov Miriam , Aram Dorit
Published: July 2024

Today, many children worldwide grow up in bilingual or multilingual families. This study explores early literacy development in Russian–Hebrew bilingual families in Israel. It studies the contribution of the home literacy environment (HLE), the language of communication, and the nature of the maternal writing support in Hebrew and Russian, to children's early literacy skills in the two languages. Participants were 61 Israeli children (4–6 years old) and their mothers. The mothers completed questionnaires about home literacy activities in both languages and were videotaped while supporting their child in writing a list of eight words in Hebrew and Russian. Children's early literacy skills (phonological awareness, letter knowledge, and word recognition) were assessed in both languages. Results showed that mothers adjusted their writing support not only to the child's skills but also to the particular orthography. The HLE and aspects of mothers' writing support predicted their children's early literacy skills, not only within each language but also in cross‐language models. The literacy activities provided at home and the nature of mothers' support seem to link to the children's literacy outcomes. The results stress the importance of parents' explicit efforts to support children's early literacy skills in both heritage and societal languages.
Shortest path or random walks? A framework for path weights in network meta‐analysis
Authors: Rücker Gerta , Papakonstantinou Theodoros , Nikolakopoulou Adriani , Schwarzer Guido , Galla Tobias , Davies Annabel L.
Published: July 2024

Quantifying the contributions, or weights, of comparisons or single studies to the estimates in a network meta‐analysis (NMA) is an active area of research. We extend this work to include the contributions of paths of evidence. We present a general framework, based on the path‐design matrix, that describes the problem of finding path contributions as a linear equation. The resulting solutions may have negative coefficients. We show that two known approaches, called shortestpath and randomwalk, are special solutions of this equation, and both meet an optimization criterion, as they minimize the sum of absolute path contributions. In general, there is an infinite set of solutions, which can be identified using the generalized inverse (Moore‐Penrose pseudoinverse). We consider two further special approaches. For large networks we find that shortestpath is superior with respect to run time and variability, compared to the other approaches, and is thus recommended in practice. The path‐weights framework also has the potential to answer more general research questions in NMA.
Using a monotonic density ratio model to increase the power of the goodness‐of‐fit test for logistic regression models with case‐control data
Authors: Wang Chunlin , Liu Zheyu , Wang Xinyu
Published: July 2024

Logistic regression models are widely used in case‐control data analysis, and testing the goodness‐of‐fit of their parametric model assumption is a fundamental research problem. In this article, we propose to enhance the power of the goodness‐of‐fit test by exploiting a monotonic density ratio model, in which the ratio of case and control densities is assumed to be a monotone function. We show that such a monotonic density ratio model is naturally induced by the retrospective case‐control sampling design under the alternative hypothesis. The pool‐adjacent‐violator algorithm is adapted to solve for the constrained nonparametric maximum likelihood estimator under the alternative hypothesis. By measuring the discrepancy between this estimator and the semiparametric maximum likelihood estimator under the null hypothesis, we develop a new Kolmogorov‐Smirnov‐type statistic to test the goodness‐of‐fit for logistic regression models with case‐control data. A bootstrap resampling procedure is suggested to approximate the ‐value of the proposed test. Simulation results show that the type I error of the proposed test is well controlled and the power improvement is substantial in many cases. Three real data applications are also included for illustration.
Enhanced Thermoelectric Performance of N‐Type PbSe Through Semi‐Coherent Nanostructure by AgCuTe Alloying
Authors: Wang Xinxin , Wang Chao , Wang Yajing , Hao Min , Cui Shengqiang , Huang Xudong , Wang Chunhui , Chen Jing , Cheng Zhenxiang , Wang Jianli
Published: July 2024

N‐type PbSe thermoelectric materials encounter challenges in improving the power factor due to the single‐band structure near the Fermi level, which obstructs typical band convergence. The primary strategy for enhancing the thermoelectric figure of merit (ZT) for n‐type PbSe involves reducing lattice thermal conductivity (κlat) by introducing various defect structures. However, lattice mismatches resulting from internal defects within the matrix can diminish carrier mobility, thereby affecting electrical transport properties. In this study, n‐type AgCuTe‐alloyed PbSe systems achieve a peak ZT value of ≈1.5 at 773 K. Transmission electron microscopy reveals nanoprecipitates of Ag2Te, the room temperature second phase of AgCuTe, within the PbSe matrix. Meanwhile, a unique semi‐coherent phase boundary is observed between the PbSe matrix and the Ag2Te nanoprecipitates. This semi‐coherent phase interface effectively scatters low‐frequency phonons while minimizing damage to carrier mobility. Additionally, the dynamic doping effect of Cu atoms from the decomposition of AgCuTe within the matrix further optimize the high‐temperature thermoelectric performance. Overall, these factors significantly enhance the ZT across the whole temperature range. The ZT value of ≈1.5 indicates high competitiveness compared to the latest reported n‐type PbSe materials, suggesting that these findings hold promise for advancing the development of efficient thermoelectric systems.
COVID‐19 with multi‐organ arterial and venous thrombosis. A case report
Authors: Habibi Hamzeh , Afsharkia Paniz , Jahangiri Mohamad , Mostafavi Soroush
Published: July 2024

This case illustrates a late complication of viral pneumonia, likely due to COVID‐19, characterized by simultaneous acute arterial and venous thrombosis in multiple organs. The patient experienced myocardial infarction with left ventricular thrombus, pulmonary embolism, acute limb ischemia, superior mesenteric artery thrombosis, renal artery thrombosis, and deep vein thrombosis, posing significant challenges in both management and determining the etiology.
Precipitate Dissolution and Grain Growth during Solution Treatment of Ce‐Containing 15Cr–22Ni–1Nb Austenitic Heat‐Resistant Steel
Authors: Zhu Xin , Shi Chengbin , Zhang Huai , Liu Shen , Ren Peng
Published: July 2024

The precipitate dissolution and grain growth during the solution treatment of a newly developed Ce‐containing 15Cr–22Ni–1Nb steel are investigated. The dissolution of eutectic NbC is the result of the elements diffusion along the concentration gradients, and honeycomb (Fe,Cr,Ni,Si)2(Nb,Mo) Laves phase transforms into a more stable Mo2C‐type M2C carbide. As the cerium content is increased from 0 to 0.0630 mass%, the area fraction of eutectic precipitates in forged and solution‐treated 15Cr–22Ni steel is decreased first and then increased. For the steel with 0.0055 mass% cerium content, the substantial reduction in the area fraction of precipitates during hot forging and solution treatment is ascribed to the severe abnormal grain growth. In the case of 15Cr–22Ni steel with 0.0019 and 0.0630 mass% cerium content, the average size of austenite grains after solution treatment is reduced, the multipeak development of grain size distribution is restrained, the range of grain size distribution is narrowed, and the variation coefficient of grain growth, the critical size of abnormally grown grain, and the proportion of abnormally grown grain are all decreased. The variation coefficient of grain growth and the critical size of abnormally grown grain in the steel are increased as the solution time is extended, whereas the proportion of abnormally grown grain presents a general trend of reduction. The established mathematical model of grain growth in the paper can be well applied to predict and control the average size of austenite grains in 15Cr–22Ni steel after solution treatment.
Blast performance of RC columns with different levels of concrete grades and reinforcing ratios
Authors: Mohamed Ali Abdelrahim , Ali Osama , Metwally Ibrahim M.
Published: July 2024

The present article aims to study the behavior of RC columns under blast loading. A nonlinear dynamic Three‐Dimensional (3D) Finite Element FE model‐based explicit solver available in ABAQUS Software is used. A parametric study is investigated to enhance the blast resistance of RC columns under three different scaled distances z of an explosion, that is, 0.23, 0.5, and 1.07 m/kg1/3 for close, intermediate, and Far in‐distance. In addition, three levels of concrete grades are used, which are Normal Strength Concrete (NSC), High Strength Concrete (HSC), and Ultra High‐Performance Concrete (UHPC). The study also considers Three reinforcement ratios for longitudinal and transverse reinforcement ratios of (ρL = 1.28%, 2.4%, and 3.1%) and (ρs = 0.6%, 0.9%, and 1.35%), respectively. Further, three different Axial Load Ratios, ALR = 0.01, 0.2, and 0.4, are considered to examine the effect of increasing ALR on the RC column under close explosion. For more investigation, the parametric analysis considers two geometrical shapes of RC columns (square and circular). The material behaviors of concrete and reinforcing steel bars are represented using Concrete Damage Plasticity (CDP) and Johnson–Cook (J–C) models, respectively, available in ABAQUS Software. The FE model has been initially validated against experimental study. The FE‐predicted deflection and damage were observed and agreed with the practical cases. In addition, the parametric study's results demonstrate that the RC column's blast deflection is significantly reduced with increasing reinforcement ratios. However, increasing concrete grade could efficiently reduce blast damage and deflection. Furthermore, compared with NSC, UHPC significantly reduced maximum damage and deflection by around 60% for square and 55% for circular columns, respectively.
Human readiness levels and Human Views as tools for user‐centered design
Authors: Handley Holly A. H. , See Judi E. , Savage‐Knepshield Pamela A.
Published: July 2024

The Human Readiness Level (HRL) scale is a simple nine‐level scale that brings structure and consistency to the real‐world application of user‐centered design. It enables multidisciplinary consideration of human‐focused elements during the system development process. Use of the standardized set of questions comprising the HRL scale results in a single human readiness number that communicates system readiness for human use. The Human Views (HVs) are part of an architecture framework that provides a repository for human‐focused system information that can be used during system development to support the evaluation of HRL levels. This paper illustrates how HRLs and HVs can be used in combination to support user‐centered design processes. A real‐world example for a U.S. Army software modernization program is described to demonstrate application of HRLs and HVs in the context of user‐centered design.
Optimal content for a surgical curriculum for general practice in Rwanda: A Delphi study
Authors: Mpirimbanyi Christophe , Kirsch Michael , Lin Yihan
Published: July 2024

Background

In Rwanda, a nationwide shortage of surgeons necessitates general practitioners (GPs) perform many common procedures and minor surgeries. However, GPs only receive a 1‐year internship to prepare them to provide this care. We performed a Delphi survey of practicing GPs to assess essential content for a surgical curriculum for Rwandan interns to better prepare them for general practice.

Methods

We invited 56 practicing GPs to participate in a two‐round anonymous electronic survey in February 2023. The first round assessed demographics and solicited free‐text responses to gather knowledge and procedural content suggestions for the curriculum. The second round refined these responses into key content areas.

Results

Thirty‐one GPs responded to both rounds of the Delphi survey. They provided insight into the most commonly performed procedures, most important technical skills, and the top areas of surgical knowledge necessary for general practice. They expressed a need for more exposure to a variety of surgical pathologies and interventions across multiple specialties, highlighting the value of foundational skills in trauma, obstetrics and gynecology, and orthopedics, both at the beginning of their internship, as well as at the beginning of their general practice.

Conclusions

GPs emphasized the importance of broad exposure to common acute surgical pathology and interventions across several surgical subspecialties, as well as a need for foundational technical skills and surgical knowledge. The results of our study underscore the necessity of a surgical education providing a solid basis in the foundational knowledge and techniques of surgical care.