bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Molecular recognition between volatile molecules and odorant binding proteins 7 by homology modeling, molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation
Authors: Wang Ruige , Duan Lixin , Zhao Bing , Zheng Yongjie , Chen Lin
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND

Odorant‐binding proteins (OBPs) in insects are key to detection and recognition of external chemical signals associated with survival. OBP7 in Spodoptera frugiperda's larval stage (SfruOBP7) may search for host plants by sensing plant volatiles, which are important sources of pest attractants and repellents. However, the atomic‐level basis of binding modes remains elusive.

RESULTS

SfruOBP7 structure was constructed through homology modeling, and complex models of six plant volatiles ((E)‐2‐hexenol, α‐pinene, (Z)‐3‐hexenyl acetate, lauric acid, O‐cymene and 1‐octanol) and SfruOBP7 were obtained through molecular docking. To study the detailed interactions between the six plant volatile molecules and SfruOBP7, we conducted three 300 ns molecular dynamics simulations for each study object. The correlation coefficients between binding free energy obtained by molecular mechanics/generalized Born surface area together with solvated interaction energy methods and experimental values are 0.90 and 0.88, respectively, showing a good correlation. By comparing binding free energy along with interaction patterns between SfruOBP7 and the six volatile molecules, hotspot residues of SfruOBP7 when binding with different volatile molecules were determined. Hydrophobic interactions stemming from van der Waals interactions play a significant role in SfruOBP7 and these plant volatile systems.

CONCLUSION

The optimized three‐dimensional structure of SfruOBP7 and its binding modes with six plant volatiles revealed their interactions, thus providing a means for estimating the binding energies of other plant volatiles. Our study will help to guide the rational design of effective and selective insect attractants. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Leaders' political skills and subordinates' service‐oriented organizational citizenship behavior
Authors: Kim Mi‐Young , Ok Chihyung "Michael" , Lee Choong‐Ki
Published: May 2024

Team‐oriented tasks are inherent in the hospitality industry, requiring leaders to cultivate quality relationships with subordinates and facilitate team‐member interaction to achieve organizational goals. However, there is a lack of understanding of how leaders' political skills shape vertical and horizontal exchange relationships, leading to subordinates' performance. This study investigates the impacts of leader political skill (LPS) on leader–member exchange (LMX), team–member exchange (TMX), and service‐oriented organizational citizenship behavior (SOOCB) in an airline service setting where leaders' relationship‐building skills and influence and members' interpersonal relationship building are essential. To this end, 289 valid questionnaires were collected from flight attendants in South Korea. Results showed that perceived LPS positively affected LMX and TMX. Additionally, LMX and TMX fully mediated the relationship between LPS and SOOCB.
Kinetic analysis for the interpretation of polychlorinated biphenyls removal mechanism
Authors: Maghami Arash , Gholipour‐Zanjani Nooshin , Khorasheh Farhad , Ardjmand Mehdi
Published: May 2024

Removing polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) from subsurface water, soils, and transformer oil is crucial to save the environment from these pollutant materials. Hydrodechlorination (HDC) of PCBs consists of numerous chemical reactions and the simple kinetic models may not provide details for the process. To gain more awareness of the reaction mechanism, in the proposed approach, the isoconversional methods of the Friedman were investigated paralleling other kinetic models of Langmuir‐Hinshelwood (L‐H), Eley‐Rideal (E‐R), pseudo‐first‐order, and pseudo‐second‐order methods. The analysis was validated by laboratory results of HDC of contaminated transformer oil in front of Pd/MWCNTs. The most reactivity was observed for biphenyls with a higher number of chlorines. Finding a suitable model, Akaike Information Criteria were applied. It was attained that Friedman model was the most suitable for monitoring of HDC of PCBs in front of catalyst. Besides, E‐R reaction was appropriate to elucidate the theoretical interpretations of the adsorption and desorption of reactants and chlorinated benzene.
Wildfires and carbon budget of certain seasonally dry forests in India
Authors: Jhariya Manoj Kumar , Singh Lalji , Toppo Shalini
Published: May 2024

Globally, the increasing fire events in addition to climate change due to the emission of carbon dioxide (CO2) as well as other greenhouse gases exerts huge pressure on natural resources and their management. This phenomenon is more severe in the tropical region due to increasing population, urbanization, industrialization, existing pressures, and limiting conditions. In the present study, carbon (C) stock, carbon sequestration (Cseq), CO2 mitigation potential, C budget, and C flux of the seasonally dry forest ecosystem of Chhattisgarh under the influence of wildfire in the protected area and its proximity were evaluated. Four sites namely, high fire zone (HFZ), medium fire zone (MFZ), low fire zone (LFZ), and non‐fire zone (NFZ) were selected and marked based on fire return intervals (frequency) and extent of damage. The present work is a novel approach that assesses the impact of different fire frequencies on C dynamics of fire‐affected zones. The stratified sampling technique was used within a permanent plot of 1 hectare. Forest stands on each site were analyzed using 10 randomly placed quadrats (each 10 × 10 m in size) and data were collected from each site. Across the sites higher tree density was observed at NFZ and the lowest at HFZ.Total tree biomass ranged between 116.0 and 358.4 t ha−1 across the fire regimes. Total vegetation C stock ranged between 59.1 and 169.5 t ha−1 in different sites. The C mitigation and Cseq potential ranged between 186.2 and 575.3 t ha−1, and 7.1 and 15.9 t ha−1, respectively being highest in NFZ and lowest in HFZ. The species such as Anogeissus latifolia, Buchanania lanzan, Shorea robusta, Lannea coromandelica, Lagerstroemia parviflora, Ougeinia oojeinensis, Terminalia chebula, Terminalia tomentosa are the major contributor in biomass, C stock, C mitigation, and Cseq potential in different fire regimes. Thus, our findings would be highly useful in the restoration process of fire‐affected zones through the plantation of selective plant species. Therefore, the aforementioned species could be effectively utilized while going for an afforestation/reforestation program, and will be helpful in climate change adaptation and mitigation strategies under different fire zones.
Stackelberg–Cournot dynamic game and risk management of heterogeneous supply chain enterprises under government carbon emission policy
Authors: Ma Junhai , Liu Qiang , Zhu Meihong , Ren Hao , Wang Xiaoyan
Published: May 2024

This paper presents the development of a model incorporating two manufacturers in a competitive carbon emissions trading market with varying degrees of market competitiveness. Among them, the manufacturer is in a limited market leadership position, and the game process lies between the Stackelberg game and the Cournot game. Additionally, the Pareto solution sets at various model periods are investigated. In addition, the model examined the effect of dynamic government adjustments on carbon emission limitations. The paper conducts an analysis of the fundamental factors contributing to system instability and evaluates the influence of various factors on the model's stability. At the same time, we also discussed the influence of government adjustment strategy on retail decision‐making and stability. The results highlight that the instability of the system is mainly caused by the adjustment strategy of the market leader, whereby the system becomes increasingly unstable as the market leader's position becomes stronger. In addition, the government's implementation of carbon emission limits will promote market stability.
Cross‐Sectional and Prospective Association of Serum 25‐Hydroxyvitamin D with Gut Mycobiota during Pregnancy among Women with Gestational Diabetes
Authors: Liang Yuhui , Jiang Zengliang , Fu Yuanqing , Lu Sha , Miao Zelei , Shuai Menglei , Liang Xinxiu , Gou Wanglong , Zhang Ke , Shi Rui‐Qi , Gao Chang , Shi Mei‐Qi , Wang Xu‐Hong , Hu Wen‐Sheng , Zheng Ju‐Sheng
Published: May 2024

Scope

Little is known about the effect of blood vitamin D status on the gut mycobiota (i.e., fungi), a crucial component of the gut microbial ecosystem. The study aims to explore the association between 25‐hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] and gut mycobiota and to investigate the link between the identified mycobial features and blood glycemic traits.

Methods and results

The study examines the association between serum 25(OH)D levels and the gut mycobiota in the Westlake Precision Birth Cohort, which includes pregnant women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). The study develops a genetic risk score (GRS) for 25(OH)D to validate the observational results. In both the prospective and cross‐sectional analyses, the vitamin D is associated with gut mycobiota diversity. Specifically, the abundance of Saccharomyces is significantly lower in the vitamin D‐sufficient group than in the vitamin D‐deficient group. The GRS of 25(OH)D is inversely associated with the abundance of Saccharomyces. Moreover, the Saccharomyces is positively associated with blood glucose levels.

Conclusion

Blood vitamin D status is associated with the diversity and composition of gut mycobiota in women with GDM, which may provide new insights into the mechanistic understanding of the relationship between vitamin D levels and metabolic health.
Experimental validation of a PNS‐optimized whole‐body gradient coil
Authors: Davids Mathias , Vendramini Livia , Klein Valerie , Ferris Natalie , Guerin Bastien , Wald Lawrence L.
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Peripheral nerve stimulation (PNS) limits the usability of state‐of‐the‐art whole‐body and head‐only MRI gradient coils. We used detailed electromagnetic and neurodynamic modeling to set an explicit PNS constraint during the design of a whole‐body gradient coil and constructed it to compare the predicted and experimentally measured PNS thresholds to those of a matched design without PNS constraints.

Methods

We designed, constructed, and tested two actively shielded whole‐body Y‐axis gradient coil winding patterns: YG1 is a conventional symmetric design without PNS‐optimization, whereas YG2's design used an additional constraint on the allowable PNS threshold in the head‐imaging landmark, yielding an asymmetric winding pattern. We measured PNS thresholds in 18 healthy subjects at five landmark positions (head, cardiac, abdominal, pelvic, and knee).

Results

The PNS‐optimized design YG2 achieved 46% higher average experimental thresholds for a head‐imaging landmark than YG1 while incurring a 15% inductance penalty. For cardiac, pelvic, and knee imaging landmarks, the PNS thresholds increased between +22% and +35%. For abdominal imaging, PNS thresholds did not change significantly between YG1 and YG2 (−3.6%). The agreement between predicted and experimental PNS thresholds was within 11.4% normalized root mean square error for both coils and all landmarks. The PNS model also produced plausible predictions of the stimulation sites when compared to the sites of perception reported by the subjects.

Conclusion

The PNS‐optimization improved the PNS thresholds for the target scan landmark as well as most other studied landmarks, potentially yielding a significant improvement in image encoding performance that can be safely used in humans.
Novel approaches of borehole‐GPR data processing and visualization – application for unexploded ordnance detection
Authors: Bredeck André , Schmidt Volkmar , Schmoldt Jan‐Philipp
Published: May 2024

Borehole ground‐penetrating radar (BGPR) measurements allow for the detection of objects and structures in the subsurface and are often applied to the detection of unexploded ordnance (UXO). If omnidirectional borehole antennas in reflection mode are used for the measurement, the localization of UXO is only possible if the data from a multitude of boreholes are analysed. Data analysis is usually still done by manual picking of reflections. We propose novel approaches to process and visualize data from BGPR measurements in a more advanced and appealing manner. Therein, the reflected energy recorded in the radargrams is projected back to all potential reflection points in the three‐dimensional space around the boreholes. If the projection direction is considered, we obtain a vectorized energy projection image. Superposition of projected energy yields an easy‐to‐grasp indicator of possible locations of UXO and of regions of interest that ought to be investigated in more detail. These approaches have been applied to synthetic data and to data measured on a test site with buried UXO. The results show that energy projection is a useful tool for BGPR data visualization, although the result is dependent on data pre‐processing. The proposed methods provide novel representations of BGPR data based on an objective algorithm which will at least complement the conventional methods.
Transforming congenital heart disease management: Advances in fetal cardiac interventions
Authors: Guseh Stephanie , Tworetzky Wayne
Published: May 2024

This review addresses the transformative advancements in fetal cardiac interventions (FCI) for congenital heart diseases (CHD), with a particular focus on aortic stenosis with evolving hypoplastic left heart syndrome, pulmonary atresia with an intact ventricular septum, and HLHS with an intact atrial septum (HLHS‐IAS). We outline the specific FCI techniques employed, the refined criteria for selecting appropriate fetal and maternal candidates, and the promising yet varied outcomes associated with these procedures. Procedural strategies and clinical decision‐making are examined as we take into account the fetal pathophysiology and the benefits and risks of early intervention. We highlight the role of multidisciplinary teams in improving technical success and managing immediate procedural complications, which have led to significant improvements in procedural outcomes. Additionally, the review discusses the long‐term outcomes, challenges, and future research directions in FCI, emphasizing the necessity for continuous innovation and collaboration across specialties to advance the management of CHD. The integration of new technologies and research findings holds the promise of further enhancing FCI success rates and patient outcomes.
Why do we continue to exclude the most vulnerable in our society in diabetes research and education? Addressing the challenges presented by people with intellectual disability
Authors: Taggart Laurence
Published: May 2024

People with an intellectual disability are more likely to develop diabetes compared to their non‐disabled peers. There has been a history of exclusion of people with an intellectual disability from diabetes research and education: we must now challenge this from a human rights perspective. In challenging these perceptions, we must identify the ethical and methodological reasons for exclusion and offer practical solutions to these challenges.

These barriers to inclusion focus on three core areas. Firstly, individual factors concerning the person with the disability (can the person give their own informed consent, can the person read/write, completion of self‐report measures?). Secondly, factors concerning the methodology and design of the research study (can studies recruit the numbers needed, can people with intellectual disability understand/accept randomisation?). And, thirdly, system/organisational factors pertaining to the enablers/barriers to engaging in and completing research studies (buy‐in from senior managers, staff acting as gatekeepers, maternalistic attitudes held by gatekeepers, fidelity of intervention delivery).

This Janet Kinson paper will explore these intentional and unintentional exclusion criteria that are so often applied to people with an intellectual disability in research trial studies. This paper will dispel the myths and offer solutions for including people with an intellectual disability in diabetes research and education. Using the UK national diabetes structured education programme, DESMOND, this paper will highlight the types of reasonable adjustments that can be made to adapt this programme suitable for adults with an intellectual disability: called DESMOND‐ID. This paper will demonstrate how, with reasonable adjustments, this newly‐adapted DESMOND‐ID education programme then can be tested within a National Institute for Health and Care Research clinical randomised control trial across the UK investigating the programme's clinical and cost‐effectiveness. Copyright © 2024 John Wiley & Sons.
Clinical characteristics, management and psychological outcomes of patients with diabetes secondary to chronic pancreatitis
Authors: Johnston Philip C , Herron Aaron , Davies Mark , Taylor Mark , Magee Glynis , Nugent Ailish , Garrity Judith , Wallace Ian , Thompson Judith
Published: May 2024

Aims: To determine the clinical characteristics, management, rates of complications and psychological outcomes of patients with diabetes mellitus secondary to chronic pancreatitis (DMsCP) referred to the Belfast Pancreatic Diabetes Clinic.

Methods: Clinical and laboratory data were obtained from online health care records (NIECR). Psychological outcomes and a service‐based questionnaire were performed.

Results: Baseline characteristics (n=63 patients [male: 41, female: 22]) at initial referral included: mean age 56.2 years (range 19–84); mean duration of chronic pancreatitis 10.7 years (range 1–40); mean duration of diabetes 7.2 years (range 1–40). Previous pancreatic surgery was performed in 19% (12/63) of patients. Initial mean HbA1c was 82mmol/mol (range 41–189); mean HbA1c at six and 12 months follow‐up was 69.9mmol/mol and 70.6mmol/mol, respectively. Rates of microvascular complications included: retinopathy (background and pre‐proliferative) 16%; microalbuminuria 17%; peripheral neuropathy 14%, with no foot ulceration/amputation occurring. Macrovascular disease occurred in 24% of patients. Sixteen (25%) had missed at least one outpatient diabetes appointment over the preceding year. Quality of life (QoL) as measured by the PANQOLI was low with a mean total score of 64.9/103; 59% (16/27) of the service cohort also breached clinical cut‐offs for the presence of both anxiety (GAD‐7) and depression (PHQ‐9).

Summary: DMsCP in our cohort was characterised by significant micro‐ and macrovascular complications, sub‐optimal glycaemic control, reduced clinic attendance and impaired QoL as well as a significant component of anxiety and depression. The optimal care for these patients should consist of a collaborative approach that best meets their complex and multifaceted needs. Copyright © 2024 John Wiley & Sons.
Gestational diabetes mellitus care re‐imagined: women's experiences of a major model of care change at a large metropolitan hospital
Authors: Butten Kaley , Laurie Josephine G , Varnfield Marlien , Wilkinson Shelley A
Published: May 2024

Background: A gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) pregnancy has significant psychological, time and resource impacts. In 2020–21, a digitally‐supported radical GDM service redesign was undertaken at a Brisbane tertiary centre, producing substantial cost savings without compromising clinical outcomes.

Aims: To describe women's experiences within this new model of care (MOC), specifically the app user experience (MOC) (post), compared with a traditional MOC (pre).

Methods: The new MOC was evaluated using a pre–post study design. This MOC included a smartphone app‐to‐clinician blood glucose communication platform. A convenience sample of women were surveyed about care experiences and app use pre‐ and post‐implementation. An additional survey queried user app experience at four weeks’ postpartum.

Results: Within the service, 34% (n=24) and 22% (n=48) of women were surveyed pre and post MOC introduction, respectively. Pre‐implementation, 50% (n=12) of women missed work to attend appointments and 75% spent 30–120 minutes at the hospital. Questions regarding understanding GDM, initial dietary changes and glucometer use received similar or slightly lower ratings, pre‐ to post‐implementation. Nearly a quarter of women in the app‐experiences survey (24.2%; n=177) showed high levels of satisfaction with care received (91.5%) and with the app for managing GDM (87.1%). Two experience themes that emerged were Enhanced GDM management and Usability issues.

Conclusions: The new MOC reduced time impositions associated with attending appointments. Despite the removal of face‐to‐face visits in the new MOC, women still established a connection with their treating team and maintained their understanding of their GDM management. Copyright © 2024 John Wiley & Sons.
Novel primary care research is showcased in Brighton at the latest Society for Academic Primary Care annual scientific meeting
Authors: Titmarsh Steve
Published: May 2024

Is face‐to‐face better than a virtual consultation? How do people feel about artificial intelligence helping with diabetic eye screening? And, are there ethnic variations in infection risk in type 2 diabetes?

These were just a small sample of questions that research presented at the 51st Annual Scientific Meeting of the Society for Academic Primary Care, held over two days in Brighton in July 2023, tried to address. Steve Titmarsh reports.
Bioequivalence and the food effect of macitentan/tadalafil 10/20 fixed‐dose combination tablets versus the use of single‐component tablets in healthy subjects
Authors: Ford Jennifer Lynn , Sabet Ahad , Natarajan Jaya , Stieltjes Hans , Chao Daniel L. , Goyal Navin , Csonka Denes
Published: May 2024

The primary aim was to demonstrate bioequivalence between the 10/20 mg fixed‐dose combination (FDC) of macitentan/tadalafil in a single tablet and the free combination of both drugs, and to evaluate the food effect on the 10/20 mg FDC in healthy participants. In this single‐center, randomized, open‐label, 3‐way crossover, single‐dose Phase 1 study in healthy adult participants, macitentan/tadalafil was administered as a 10/20 mg FDC formulation and compared with the free combination of macitentan and tadalafil. The food effect on the FDC was also evaluated. Pharmacokinetic sampling (216 h) was conducted. The 90% confidence intervals (CIs) for the geometric mean ratios of maximum observed plasma analyte concentration (Cmax) and area under the plasma analyte concentration–time curves (AUCs) for Treatment A (FDC, fasted) versus C (free combination, fasted) were within bioequivalence limits demonstrating that the FDC formulation can be considered bioequivalent to the free combination. The 90% CIs for the geometric mean ratios of Cmax and AUC for Treatment B (FDC, fed) versus A (FDC, fasted) were contained within bioequivalence limits demonstrating that there was no food effect. The administration of the 10/20 mg FDC was generally safe and well tolerated in healthy participants. This study demonstrated bioequivalence between the FDC of macitentan/tadalafil (10/20 mg) in a single tablet and the free combination of both drugs in healthy participants, and that the FDC can be taken without regard to food, similarly to the individual components. The FDC was generally safe and well tolerated.
Flexible Ni‐Based Bimetallic Spinel Oxide (NiM2O4, M = Mn, Fe, Co) Electrodes for Supercapacitor Applications
Authors: Maneesard Panupan , Somsongkul Voranuch , Chirawatkul Prae , Saiyasombat Chatree , Vannier Rose‐Noëlle , Kongmark Chanapa
Published: May 2024

Herein, the single‐phase Ni‐based bimetallic spinel oxide (NiM2O4, M = Mn, Fe, Co) nanoparticles are successfully synthesized by sol–gel method and coated on a carbon cloth substrate to form flexible electrodes for supercapacitor applications. The effects of transition metal activity, calcination temperature, surface, and textural properties on the electrochemical properties of spinel electrode materials are demonstrated. It is found that lowering the calcination temperature results in a decrease in crystallite size and particle size, leading to an increase in surface area and pore volume. X‐Ray absorption spectroscopy reveals the presence of Mn2+/3+, Fe2+/3+, and Co2+/3+ in materials. According to the electrochemical studies, NiMn2O4 electrode in Na2SO4 electrolyte exhibits electrical double‐layer capacitance behavior, while NiFe2O4 and NiCo2O4 electrodes in KOH electrolyte exhibit pseudocapacitive behavior. All electrode materials have low solution resistance and charge transfer resistance. NiCo2O4 provides the highest specific capacitance (85.60 F g−1 at 2.5 A g−1) followed by NiFe2O4 and NiMn2O4. It seems likely that the high electrochemical activity of Co2+/3+ and small particle size of NiCo2O4 nanoparticles play an important role in improving the redox process and charge transfer, which may enhance the electrochemical performance of this electrode material.
Vertical GaN PIN Structure with Intrinsic AlGaN Drift Layer Grown Using Metal‐Organic Chemical Vapor Deposition
Authors: Heo Yunseok , Jeong Joocheol , Mohan Shyam , Kim Minho , Park Jooyong , Lee Joonhyuk , Nam Okhyun
Published: May 2024

In this study, it is aimed to examine the DC characteristics of a vertical PIN diode featuring AlGaN as the drift layers. In the investigation, observing the changes in DC characteristics with the variation of Al content (0%–4%) in the drift layers as well as its thickness is focused on. By applying AlGaN as the drift layer, the semi‐insulating properties are augmented and the detrimental background carbon impurity is reduced, leading to a reduction in the leakage current and an improvement in the breakdown voltage characteristics of the device. Room‐temperature and low‐temperature photoluminescence measurements confirm a reduction in the intensity of both yellow luminescence and blue luminescence, which can be attributed to the decrease in defect concentration. Furthermore, to minimize the occurrence of premature breakdown voltage, p‐type GaN is meticulously etched into a bevel shape, and subsequent confirmation through the utilization of a scanning electron microscope reveals an inclination of 13°. The outcome of the analysis on the DC characteristic indicates an improvement in reverse‐bias characteristics with the increase in the Al ratio in the drift layer for the 2 μm series. Furthermore, for the 20 μm Al0.04Ga0.96N, a breakdown voltage of 2540 V is recorded.
Covariate adjustment and estimation of difference in proportions in randomized clinical trials
Authors: Liu Jialuo , Xi Dong
Published: May 2024

Difference in proportions is frequently used to measure treatment effect for binary outcomes in randomized clinical trials. The estimation of difference in proportions can be assisted by adjusting for prognostic baseline covariates to enhance precision and bolster statistical power. Standardization or g‐computation is a widely used method for covariate adjustment in estimating unconditional difference in proportions, because of its robustness to model misspecification. Various inference methods have been proposed to quantify the uncertainty and confidence intervals based on large‐sample theories. However, their performances under small sample sizes and model misspecification have not been comprehensively evaluated. We propose an alternative approach to estimate the unconditional variance of the standardization estimator based on the robust sandwich estimator to further enhance the finite sample performance. Extensive simulations are provided to demonstrate the performances of the proposed method, spanning a wide range of sample sizes, randomization ratios, and model specification. We apply the proposed method in a real data example to illustrate the practical utility.
Nonparametric mean and variance adaptive classification rule for high‐dimensional data with heteroscedastic variances
Authors: Oh Seungyeon , Park Hoyoung
Published: May 2024

In this study, we introduce an innovative methodology aimed at enhancing Fisher's Linear Discriminant Analysis (LDA) in the context of high‐dimensional data classification scenarios, specifically addressing situations where each feature exhibits distinct variances. Our approach leverages Nonparametric Maximum Likelihood Estimation (NPMLE) techniques to estimate both the mean and variance parameters. By accommodating varying variances among features, our proposed method leads to notable improvements in classification performance. In particular, unlike numerous prior studies that assume the distribution of heterogeneous variances follows a right‐skewed inverse gamma distribution, our proposed method demonstrates excellent performance even when the distribution of heterogeneous variances takes on left‐skewed, symmetric, or right‐skewed forms. We conducted a series of rigorous experiments to empirically validate the effectiveness of our approach. The results of these experiments demonstrate that our proposed methodology excels in accurately classifying high‐dimensional data characterized by heterogeneous variances.
Consider creating transition program for new students with disabilities
Authors: Hamblet Elizabeth C.
Published: May 2024

For some students with disabilities, the transition to ­college represents a significant challenge. Some students move from a small high school where the staff knew them and their peer group was limited to a large university where they are anonymous and their class contains thousands of other students. Many students haven’t yet ­developed self‐advocacy skills. They may lack academic skills, too. Some have never stayed away from home overnight.
Women die here too: maternal mortality as gender‐based violence in Texas
Authors: Oyarvide Tuthill Zelma
Published: May 2024

Mortality rates among Latin American women reflect the disproportionate exposure to gender‐based violence in the global south. The United States has been critical of national governments in Latin America for their response to prevent and address feminicidios, or gender‐based violence. Yet, data show that women in the United States also die at alarming rates. The United States is facing a maternal mortality problem. Evidence suggests that the maternal mortality rate in the United States is higher relative to other high‐income countries and in Texas the rate is higher than the national average. This paper has three aims. First, I contextualize my discussion of maternal mortality as structural violence within the broader discussions of feminicidios. Second, I outline how state policies in Texas that regulate access to Medicaid and target reproductive rights are a form of structural violence against women because they negatively impact maternal mortality. Finally, I conclude by noting how data visualization that more directly connects the relationship between policies and maternal mortality can expand our understanding of the different ways in which women are systematically harmed.
Encapsulation of Cadmium‐Free InP‐based Quantum Dots in Cross‐Linked Core‐Shell Microparticles via Coaxial Electrospraying
Authors: Babkin Iurii Alekseevich , Bammens Simon , Schiettecatte Pieter , Van Avermaet Hannes , Hens Zeger , Mooter Guy Van den , Clasen Christian
Published: May 2024

Quantum dots (QDs) are inorganic semiconductor nanocrystals capable of emitting light. The current major challenge lies in the use of heavy metals, which are known to be highly toxic to humans and pose significant environmental risks. Researchers have turned to indium (In) as a promising option for more environmentally benign QDs, specifically indium phosphide (InP). A significant obstacle remains in sustaining the long‐term photostability of InP‐based QDs when exposed to the environment. To tackle this, electrospraying is used in this work to protect indium phosphide/zinc selenide/zinc sulfide (InP/ZnSe/ZnS) QDs by embedding them within polymer core‐shell microparticles of poly[(lauryl methacrylate)‐co‐(ethylene glycol dimethacrylate)]/poly(methyl methacrylate) (poly(LMA‐co‐EGDMA)/PMMA). During the flight of droplets, the liquid monomer core of LMA and EGDMA with QDs is encapsulated by the solid shell of PMMA formed due to solvent evaporation, resulting in a liquid‐core/solid‐shell particle structure. After that, the captured core of monomers is polymerized into a cross‐linked polymer with the embedded QDs via a thermal initiation. They demonstrate how a successful core‐shell particle formation is achieved to produce structures for initially liquid monomer systems via coaxial electrospraying that are used for cross‐linked polymers, which are of major interest for the encapsulation of InP‐based QDs for generally improved photostability over pristine QDs.
Damage‐Tolerant and Self‐Repairing Web‐Like Borate Type Binder Enable Stable Operation of Efficient Si‐Based Anodes
Authors: Wu Zhuoying , Ma Yongqun , Li Siying , Que Liming , Chen Hongbo , Hao Fei , Tao Xiaole , Xing Hao , Ye Jialin , Qian Dan , Ling Min , Zhu Weiwei , Liang Chengdu
Published: May 2024

Novel binder designs are shown to be fruitful in improving the electrochemical performance of silicon (Si)‐based anodes. However, issues with mechanical damage from dramatic volume change and poor lithium‐ion (Li+) diffusion kinetics in Si‐based materials still need to be addressed. Herein, an aqueous self‐repairing borate‐type binder (SBG) with a web‐like architecture and high ionic conductivity is designed for Si and SiO electrodes. The 3D web‐like architecture of the SBG binder enables uniform stress distribution, while its self‐repairing ability promotes effective stress dissipation and mechanical damage repair, thereby enhancing the damage tolerance of the electrode. The tetracoordinate boron ions () in the SBG binder boosts the Li transportation kinetics of Si‐based electrodes. Based on dynamic covalent and ionic conductive boronic ester bonds, the diverse requirements of the binder, including uniform stress distribution, self‐repairing ability, and high ionic conductivity, can be met by simple components. Consequently, the proposed straightforward multifunction design strategy for binders based on dynamic boron chemistry provides valuable insights into fabricating high‐performance Si‐based anodes.
Large‐Substrate‐Terrace Confined Growth of Arrayed Ultrathin PtSe2 Ribbons on Step‐Bunched Vicinal Au(001) Facets Toward Electrocatalytic Applications
Authors: Fu Jiatian , Li Chenyu , Wu Qilong , Hu Jingyi , Lu Yue , Quan Wenzhi , Peng You , Wang Xiangzhuo , Yang Pengfei , Huan Yahuan , Ji Qingqing , Zhang Yanfeng
Published: May 2024

Ultrathin PtSe2 ribbons can host spin‐polarized edge states and distinct edge electrocatalytic activity, emerging as a promising candidate for versatile applications in various fields. However, the direct synthesis is still challenging and the growth mechanism is still unclear. Herein, the arrayed growth of ultrathin PtSe2 ribbons on bunched vicinal Au(001) facets, via a facile chemical vapor deposition (CVD) route is reported. The ultrathin PtSe2 flakes can transform from traditional irregular shapes to desired ribbon shapes by increasing the height of bunched and unidirectionally oriented Au steps (with step height hstep) is found. This crossover, occurring at hstep ≈ 3.0 nm, defines the tailored growth from step‐flow to single‐terrace‐confined modes, as validated by density functional theory calculations of the different system energies. On the millimeter‐scale single‐crystal Au(001) films with aligned steps, the arrayed ultrathin PtSe2 ribbons with tunable width of ≈20–1000 nm, which are then served as prototype electrocatalysts for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) is achieved. This work should represent a huge leap in the direct synthesis and the mechanism exploration of arrayed ultrathin transition‐metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs) ribbons, which should stimulate further explorations of the edge‐related physical properties and practical applications.
Folate Receptor Targeting Mn(II) Complex Encapsulated Porous Silica Nanoparticle as an MRI Contrast Agent for Early‐State Detection of Cancer
Authors: Mallik Riya , Saha Muktashree , Ghosh Basab , Chauhan Nisha , Mohan Hari , Kumaran S. Senthil , Mukherjee Chandan
Published: May 2024

Cancer is recognized as one of the major causes of mortality, however, early‐stage detection can increase the survival chance greatly. It is recognized that folate receptors are gradually overexpressed in the cellular membrane with the progress of cancer from stage 1 to stage 4. Utilizing the fact, herein, developed a porous silica nanoparticle system C1@SiO2–FA–NP; A) impregnated with thermodynamically stable Mn(II) complex (1) molecules within the core of the nanoparticle, and B) surface functionalized with folate units. It exhibited a high longitudinal relaxivity value r1 = 21.45 mM−1s−1 that substantially increased to r1 = 40.97 mM−1s−1 in the presence of 0.67 mM concentration of BSA under the physiological condition. The in vitro fluorescent images after surface conjugation of C1@SiO2–FA–NP with FITC (fluorescein isothiocyanate) buttressed the inclusion of the nanoparticle exclusively within the cancerous HeLa cells than that of healthy HEK293 cells. The importance of the surface‐bound folate unit in the nanoparticle is further established by comparing the fluorescent images of HeLa cells in the absence of the group. Finally, the applicability of C1@SiO2–FA–NP as the T1‐weighted MRI contrast agent for early‐stage cancer diagnosis is established within C57BL/6 mice after infecting the mice with HeLa cells.
Anode‐Free Aqueous Aluminum Ion Batteries
Authors: Lu Cheng , Zhao Fangfang , Tao Bowen , Wang Zhilong , Wang Ying , Sheng Jiaping , Tang Gen , Wang Yue , Guo Xiang , Li Jinjin , Wei Liangming
Published: May 2024

Aqueous aluminum ion batteries (AAIBs) possess the advantages of high safety, cost‐effectiveness, eco‐friendliness and high theoretical capacity. However, the Al2O3 film on the Al anode surface, a natural physical barrier to the plating of hydrated aluminum ions, is a key factor in the decomposition of the aqueous electrolyte and the severe hydrogen precipitation reaction. To circumvent the obnoxious Al anode, a proof‐of‐concept of an anode‐free AAIB is first proposed, in which Al2TiO5, as a cathode pre‐aluminum additive (Al source), can replenish Al loss by over cycling. The Al‐Cu alloy layer, formed by plating Al on the Cu foil surface during the charge process, possesses a reversible electrochemical property and is paired with a polyaniline (cathode) to stimulate the battery to exhibit high initial discharge capacity (175 mAh g−1), high power density (≈410 Wh L−1) and ultra‐long cycle life (4000 cycles) with the capacity retention of ≈60% after 1000 cycles. This work will act as a primer to ignite the enormous prospective researches on the anode‐free aqueous Al ion batteries.
Construction of Cs2AgBiCl6/COF Heterojunction for Boosted Photocatalytic Thioester Oxidation
Authors: Qin Qi , Xia Zhi‐Hua , Liu Wei‐Qi , Chen Hong‐Yan , Kuang Dai‐Bin
Published: May 2024

Lead‐free halide perovskites as a new kind of potential candidate for photocatalytic organic synthesis have attracted much attention recently. The rational heterojunction construction is regarded as an efficient strategy to delicately regulate their catalytic performances. Herein, a semi‐conductive covalent organic framework (COF) nanosheet, C4N, is employed as the functional component to construct Cs2AgBiCl6/C4N (CABC/C4N) heterojunction. It is found that the C4N nanosheets with rich surface functional groups can serve as heterogeneous nucleation sites to manipulate the growth of CABC nanocrystals and afford close contact between each other, therefore facilitate the transfer and spatial separation of photogenerated charge carriers, as verified by in situ X‐ray photoelectronic spectroscopy and Kelvin probe force microscopy. Moreover, the oxygen affinity of C4N endows the heterojunctions with outstanding aerobic reactivity, thus improving the photocatalytic performance largely. The optimal CABC/C4N heterojunction delivers a thioanisole conversion efficiency of 100% after 6 h, which is 2.2 and 7.7‐fold of that of CABC and C4N. This work provides a new ideal for the design and application of lead‐free perovskite heterojunction photocatalysts for organic reactions.
Propositional logic, paradox, and Indian dialectics – towards a deeper ontological approach in paradox theory
Authors: Fritzsche Albrecht
Published: May 2024

The article responds to the call of organizational paradox theorists to explore the added value of eastern principles of thought as a basis for a better understanding of the treatment of contradictory opposites in organisations. Drawing on prior work in systems theory, it presents a logical analysis of paradox based on the Catuṣkoṭi or Tetralemma discussed in Madhyamika Buddhism. Unlike its predecessors, the article reads the Tetralemma as an expression of a gradual process of detachment from the subject matter in question, resulting from a change of perspective. On this basis, the article is able to distinguish two different accounts of paradox in organisations, one resulting from excess determinacy and the other resulting from a lack of determinacy. For organisational practice, this means that the perception of and attitude towards values, routines, strategy or identity needs more attention in the study of paradox, which Indian dialectics might facilitate.
Seismic control of tall buildings using vertically distributed multiple tuned mass dampers
Authors: Akhlagh Pasand Ali , Zahrai Seyed Mehdi
Published: May 2024

Tuned mass damper (TMD) is a seismic vibration control device used to reduce wind and seismic vibrations of structures. Although TMD is attractive to many researchers due to its simplicity, optimizing its parameters and positions is very challenging. The sensitivity of TMD to structure's frequency changes is among its weaknesses and if parameters of this system are not optimally tuned, the efficiency of this system decreases. To solve this problem, multiple tuned mass dampers (MTMDs) have been proposed. In this research, in order to study and compare single tuned mass damper (STMD) with MTMDs vertically distributed according to modal analysis, a 20‐story building is used. The structure is analyzed in OpenSees under seven ground motions with a peak ground acceleration (PGA) of 1.0 g. To optimize TMD parameters, particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm is used and the results are compared to those obtained from Den Hartog's approach. To be able to use PSO algorithm and optimize TMD design parameters, Matlab and OpenSees are linked together. In this paper, more than one vibration mode is used to tune and distribute dampers to overcome higher mode effects in high‐rise buildings. The results showed that depending on their different layouts and different optimization methods used, MTMDs reduce the average maximum responses of the structure by up to 12.1%. This is while STMD is able to reduce maximum responses of the structure by 4.3%.
Implementing multi‐trait genomic selection to improve grain milling quality in oats (Avena sativa L.)
Authors: Dhakal Anup , Poland Jesse , Adhikari Laxman , Faryna Ethan , Fiedler Jason , Rutkoski Jessica E. , Arbelaez Juan David
Published: May 2024

Oats (Avena sativa L.) provide unique nutritional benefits and contribute to sustainable agricultural systems. Breeding high‐value oat varieties that meet milling industry standards is crucial for satisfying the demand for oat‐based food products. Test weight, thins, and groat percentage are primary traits that define oat milling quality and the final price of food‐grade oats. Conventional selection for milling quality is costly and burdensome. Multi‐trait genomic selection (MTGS) combines information from genome‐wide markers and secondary traits genetically correlated with primary traits to predict breeding values of primary traits on candidate breeding lines. MTGS can improve prediction accuracy and significantly accelerate the rate of genetic gain. In this study, we evaluated different MTGS models that used morphometric grain traits to improve prediction accuracy for primary grain quality traits within the constraints of a breeding program. We evaluated 558 breeding lines from the University of Illinois Oat Breeding Program across 2 years for primary milling traits, test weight, thins, and groat percentage, and secondary grain morphometric traits derived from kernel and groat images. Kernel morphometric traits were genetically correlated with test weight and thins percentage but were uncorrelated with groat percentage. For test weight and thins percentage, the MTGS model that included the kernel morphometric traits in both training and candidate sets outperformed single‐trait models by 52% and 59%, respectively. In contrast, MTGS models for groat percentage were not significantly better than the single‐trait model. We found that incorporating kernel morphometric traits can improve the genomic selection for test weight and thins percentage.
Multiple urogenital abnormalities and urine incontinence in a sexually ambiguous goat (Capra aegagrus hircus)
Authors: Le Kayla , Wai Seng (Darrel) , Righter Brenda , Weber Katherine , Ruppert Stephani
Published: May 2024

A 6‐month‐old, phenotypic, male Nigerian dwarf goat presented after bilateral abdominal gonadectomy for persistent urinary incontinence. Physical examination revealed a caudally positioned cliteropenis with an abnormally enlarged urethral opening. Abdominal ultrasound and computed tomography revealed a fluid‐filled structure dorsal to the urinary bladder. The structure was removed by caudal midline laparotomy. Communication between the structure and proximal urethra was confirmed in surgery. Unexpected separation of the structure from the urethra in surgery necessitated normograde catheterisation through a cystotomy to pull a catheter retrograde into the bladder. Histopathology confirmed the structure as a hypoplastic uterus. The goat regained normal urine continence following surgery.
Singular contact varieties
Authors: Śmiech Robert
Published: May 2024

In this note we propose the generalization of the notion of a holomorphic contact structure on a manifold (smooth variety) to varieties with rational singularities and prove basic properties of such objects. Natural examples of singular contact varieties come from the theory of nilpotent orbits: every projectivization of the closure of a nilpotent orbit in a semisimple Lie algebra satisfies our definition after normalization. We show the correspondence between symplectic varieties with the structure of a $$\mathbb {C}^*$$

C

∗

-bundle and the contact ones along with the existence of stratification à la Kaledin. In the projective case we demonstrate the equivalence between crepant and contact resolutions of singularities, show the uniruledness and give a full classification of projective contact varieties in dimension 3.