bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microstructure Evolution and Frictional Wear Behavior of Al–18Si–4Mg–2Mn–0.5Fe–xCu Alloys Fabricated by Laser Additive Manufacturing
Authors: Yang Haining , Wang Shouren , Wang Gaoqi , Gao Shaoping , Wang Lihu , Yang Xuefeng
Published: December 2023

The microstructure evolution, corrosion resistance, and wear resistance of Al–18Si–4 Mg–2Mn–0.5Fe–xCu (x = 0,1,2,3,4,5 wt%) alloys prepared by laser additive manufacturing (LAM) process are studied. It is found that the addition of Cu not only produces Cu‐rich strengthened phase, but also promotes the precipitation of the second phase. With the addition of Cu, the corrosion resistance of the alloy decreases, which is due to the increase of potential difference caused by the increase of the strengthening phase. The addition of Cu can effectively inhibit corrosion cracking. The hardness and wear resistance of the alloy increase with the increase of Cu content under the synergistic strengthening of the Q‐Al5Cu2Mg8Si6 phase and Al2Cu phase. When the Cu content is 3 wt%, the hardness and wear resistance of the alloy are the best. However, with the increase of Cu content, part of the Q phase is transformed into the Al2Cu phase; this synergistic strengthening effect is weakened, and the hardness and wear resistance of the alloy are reduced, but still higher than that of the alloy without Cu addition, which indicates that the addition of Cu can effectively improve the hardness and wear resistance of the alloy.
Enhancing Photodetection Performance and Thermal Tolerance of CdS Thin Films through Cobalt (Co) Doping
Authors: Halge Devidas , Narwade Vijaykiran , Khanzode Pooja , Kaawash Nabeel , Alegaonkar Prashant , Kovac Janez , Bogle Kashinath
Published: December 2023

A visible light photodetector is developed using cobalt (Co)‐doped cadmium sulfide (CdS) thin films that exhibits outstanding characteristics with a photocurrent of 284 μA, responsivity of 13.2 A W−1, an extraordinary external quantum efficiency (EQE) of 4550%, exceptional sensitivity (2.84 × 106%), and a rapid response time of 0.6 ms. These remarkable properties are most pronounced in 1 wt% Co‐doped CdS device and decrease with higher Co doping concentrations. This enhanced performance is attributed to the introduction of a defect energy band (DEB) near the CdS valence band, supported by UV‐Vis absorption spectra with a distinct feature at 744 nm. This DEB remains fully populated at room temperature and plays a vital role in responding to temperature variations. Our investigation reveals that 1 wt% Co‐doped CdS device exhibits significant (90%) thermal tolerance compared to pure CdS (10%) and higher Co doping concentrations (20%) in the temperature range of 27–110 °C. This improved thermal stability is attributed to the optimal Co doping concentration, striking a balance between thermal and photo‐excitation processes, thereby stabilizing the photocurrent. This research offers valuable insights into Co‐doped CdS thin films, promising robust and reliable photodetection devices, particularly suitable for applications with fluctuating temperatures.
Venetoclax and hypomethylating agent combination therapy in newly diagnosed acute myeloid leukemia: Genotype signatures for response and survival among 301 consecutive patients
Authors: Gangat Naseema , Karrar Omer , Iftikhar Moazah , McCullough Kristen , Johnson Isla M. , Abdelmagid Maymona , Abdallah Mostafa , Al‐Kali Aref , Alkhateeb Hassan B. , Begna Kebede H. , Mangaonkar Abhishek , Saliba Antoine N. , Hefazi Torghabeh Mehrdad , Litzow Mark R. , Hogan William , Shah Mithun , Patnaik Mrinal M. , Pardanani Animesh , Badar Talha , Murthy Hemant , Foran James , Palmer Jeanne , Sproat Lisa , Khera Nandita , Arana Yi Cecilia , Tefferi Ayalew
Published: December 2023

Venetoclax + hypomethylating agent (Ven‐HMA) is currently the standard frontline therapy for older/unfit patients with newly diagnosed acute myeloid leukemia (ND‐AML). Our objective in the current retrospective study of 301 adult patients (median age 73 years; 62% de novo) with ND‐AML was to identify molecular predictors of treatment response to Ven‐HMA and survival; European LeukemiaNet (ELN) genetic risk assignment was favorable 15%, intermediate 16%, and adverse 69%. Complete remission, with (CR) or without (CRi), count recovery, was documented in 182 (60%) patients. In multivariable analysis, inclusive of mutations only, “favorable” predictors of CR/CRi were NPM1 (86% vs. 56%), IDH2 (80% vs. 58%), and DDX41 (100% vs. 58%) and “unfavorable” TP53 (40% vs. 67%), FLT3‐ITD (36% vs. 63%), and RUNX1 (44% vs. 64%) mutations; significance was sustained for each mutation after adjustment for age, karyotype, and therapy‐related qualification. CR/CRi rates ranged from 36%, in the presence of unfavorable and absence of favorable mutation, to 91%, in the presence of favorable and absence of unfavorable mutation. At median follow‐up of 8.5 months, 174 deaths and 41 allogeneic stem cell transplants (ASCT) were recorded. In multivariable analysis, risk factors for inferior survival included failure to achieve CR/CRi (HR 3.4, 95% CI 2.5–4.8), adverse karyotype (1.6, 1.1–2.6), TP53 mutation (1.6, 1.0–2.4), and absence of IDH2 mutation (2.2, 1.0–4.7); these risk factors were subsequently applied to construct an HR‐weighted risk model that performed better than the ELN genetic risk model (AIC 1661 vs. 1750): low (n = 130; median survival 28.9 months), intermediate (n = 105; median 9.6 months), and high (n = 66; median 3.1 months; p < .001); survival in each risk category was significantly upgraded by ASCT. The current study identifies genotype signatures for predicting response and proposes a 3‐tiered, CR/CRi‐based, and genetics‐enhanced survival model for AML patients receiving upfront therapy with Ven‐HMA.
How has the media framed the introduction of the supervised injecting room in Victoria? A comparison of editorials of The Age and Herald Sun 2017–2022
Authors: Mendes Philip , Taylor Robert , Roche Steven
Published: December 2023

Influenced by a harm reduction philosophy, the then Victorian Labor Government announced the establishment of the state's first medically supervised injecting room (MSIR) in North Richmond in late 2017. But, public and political opinion remains sharply divided as to the merits of the MSIR. One influence on policy development appears to be media commentary on the MSIR and the wider illicit drugs policy debate. This paper compares the official editorials of the two daily Melbourne newspapers, the Herald Sun and The Age regarding the MSIR, from November 2017 until November 2022. Based on 33 articles (Herald Sun, N = 28; The Age, N = 5), our findings identify philosophical differences between the two newspapers as reflected in their sources of information, language and highlighted issues. The Age was mostly supportive of both the introduction of the North Richmond MSIR and proposals for a second site. The Herald Sun's position was more ambiguous, ranging from qualified support for the North Richmond MSIR to strong opposition to further sites.
Attitudes toward demographic diversity in 16 advanced economies: Perceptions of conflict matters more than income
Authors: Joshanloo Mohsen , Park Joonha
Published: December 2023

This study provides a comprehensive analysis of several factors that potentially contribute to attitudes toward demographic (i.e., racial, ethnic and religious) diversity in 16 advanced economies, using data from a recent survey conducted by the Pew Research Center in 2021 (N = 16,254). Specifically, the study aimed to examine 12 potential covariates of anti‐diversity attitudes, using Bayesian multilevel modelling. The results showed that the variables with the strongest positive association with anti‐diversity attitudes were perceived domestic conflict (perception of greater conflict between different groups in one's country), being older and dissatisfaction with the way democracy works in one's country. The strongest negative covariates of anti‐diversity attitudes were higher levels of education and perceiving discrimination as a problem. Household income was not associated with diversity attitudes, whereas being female was associated with more pro‐diversity attitudes. The model was tested separately in Australia, and the results were generally consistent with the findings from the multinational sample. Perceived domestic conflict emerged as the strongest covariate of unfavourable diversity attitudes both in the overall sample and in Australia.
Complete hydatidiform mole with concurrent fetus: Two cases of live, term birth coupled with spontaneous resolution of molar tissue
Authors: Warton Emily M. , Dickinson Jan E. , White Scott W. , Leung Yee , Berry Bligh
Published: December 2023

Pregnancies with a complete hydatidiform mole and co‐existing fetus (CMCF) are rare, but increasingly common due to the rising prevalence of assisted reproductive technology. They are frequently associated with adverse obstetric outcomes, providing women with the challenge of pregnancy termination or continuing the pregnancy at the risk of maternal‐fetal morbidity and fetal mortality.

This report demonstrates two cases of CMCF pregnancy with excellent maternal‐fetal outcomes, including spontaneous resolution of the molar tissue antenatally. It is helpful in counselling women who are diagnosed with this rare and frequently morbid condition in considering how to proceed with their pregnancy.
Frying characteristics of high‐oleic rapeseed blended oil: A comparative study
Authors: Han Yubo , Gao Pan , Yang Yong , Zou Man , Zhong Wu , Yin Jiaojiao , Hu Chuanrong , He Dongping
Published: December 2023

The objective of this study was to identify the most suitable high‐oleic rapeseed blended oil for frying. Six high‐oleic rapeseed blended oils were formulated based on a polyunsaturated fatty acid/saturated fatty acid ratio of 2.0 and an n‐3 fatty acid/n‐6 fatty acid ratio of 1:4–1:6, after which the physiochemical properties, frying performance, tocopherol content, and hazardous substance contents were evaluated. The blended oil containing high‐oleic rapeseed oil: soybean oil: palm oil (85:12:3) had a reasonable fatty acid composition, better oxidative stability index (9.05 h), higher total tocopherol content (0.3 mg/kg), and longer time to reach a total polar component content of 27% (29.3 h). Moreover, after frying for 30 h, the peroxide value (7.25 mmol/kg), residual oil rate (0.57%), trans‐fatty acid content (0.37%), malondialdehyde content (1.57 μg/kg), and 3‐monochloro‐1,2‐propanediol ester content (0.24 mg/kg) were lower than those of the other samples. Principal component analysis revealed that the quality of the high‐oleic rapeseed blended oil was positively correlated with benzo[a]pyrene, 18:2, and 18:3, and negatively correlated with the residual oil rate, trans‐fatty acids, and 18:1 content. This high‐oleic rapeseed blended oil is potentially suitable for frying.
Development of polyethersulfone/polylactic acid‐blended nanocellulose membranes for enhanced removal of methylene blue dye
Authors: Moyo Senelisile , Mahlangu Oranso T. , Vilakati Gcina D. , Mamba Bhekie B. , De Kock Lueta A. , Gumbi Nozipho N. , Nxumalo Edward N.
Published: December 2023

Herein, adsorptive polyethersulfone/polylactic acid (PES/PLA) blends membranes with systematic concentrations of cellulose nanofibers (CNFs) (0.5–2.5 wt%) were developed via a modified phase inversion process for the enhanced removal of cationic methylene blue (MB) dye. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first time that such adsorptive membranes have been produced for potential use in wastewater treatment. The fabricated membranes were characterized for surface and cross‐sectional morphology (scanning electron microscope), surface roughness (atomic force microscope), functionality (Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy), thermal stability (thermal gravimetric analysis), wettability (contact angle measurements), antifouling behavior (flux recovery studies), and dye adsorption and reusability (adsorption and desorption tests). CNF incorporated membranes showed improved wetting properties, with contact angle decreasing from 76° in the pristine membranes to 48° in 2.5 wt% PES/PLA membranes. The membrane bulk porosity increased from 60.3% to 79.23%, while the pure water flux increased from 210.8 to 399.12 Lm−2 h−1. At optimal conditions, CNF‐modified membranes removed >98% of MB compared with 8% removal by the pristine membranes. After five cycles of adsorption and desorption, the membrane with 2 wt% CNFs achieved over 70% dye removal showing excellent reusability properties. Adsorption followed pseudo‐second‐order and Freundlich models. The adsorption was attributed to electrostatic interactions between the negatively charged membrane surfaces and the positively charged dye molecules as well as through hydrogen bonding. Therefore, this work revealed that CNF‐modified PES/PLA membranes can be used as adsorbents for the enhanced removal of organic pollutants in water treatment applications.
Cranial anatomy of Libognathus sheddiSmall, 1997 (Parareptilia, Procolophonidae) from the Upper Triassic Dockum Group of West Texas, USA
Authors: Mueller Bill D. , Small Bryan J. , Jenkins Xavier , Huttenlocker Adam K. , Chatterjee Sankar
Published: December 2023

Libognathus sheddi, a leptopleuronine procolophonid from the Upper Triassic Cooper Canyon Formation, Dockum Group, West Texas, was based on an isolated left dentary and partial coronoid. New material referable to Libognathus sheddi, from the Cooper Canyon Formation, provides new information on the cranial anatomy. This new cranial material includes the antorbital portion of a skull, a left maxilla and premaxilla, quadratojugals, and dentaries, including intact tooth rows in the upper and lower jaws. Libognathus shows autapomorphies including; dentary deep with ventral margin oblique to tooth row immediately from the symphysis at ≥23°; anterior projecting coronoid contacting the lingual surface of the dentary underlying the last two dentary teeth; reduced contact between the lacrimal and the nasal; suborbital foramen formed by the maxilla and ectopterygoid, excluding the palatine; a posterior supralabial foramen shared by the maxilla and jugal; a Y‐shaped antorbital pillar formed by the palatine, and massive orbitonasale and facial foramina (shared with unnamed southwest USA leptopleuronines). Phylogenetic analysis indicates that Libognathus is a highly derived leptopleuronine procolophonid, closely related to Hypsognathus fenneri and other southwest USA Revueltian leptopleuronines, which fall out as sister taxa to Hypsognathus, a relationship supported by a maxillary dentition restricted anterior to the orbital margin, a possibly synapomorphic orbitonasale septum in the form of an “antorbital pillar” created by the palatine, an anteroventral process of the jugal, and the presence of a small diastema between the first dentary tooth and the more posterior dentition. Libognathus exhibits a possible ankylosed protothecodont tooth implantation with frequent replacement, differing from some other proposed procolophonid implantation and replacement models. Chinle Formation and Dockum Group leptopleuronines are restricted to the Revueltian teilzone/holochronozone, making them possible Revueltian index taxa.
Figurative language processing in autism spectrum disorders: A review
Authors: Lampri Stella , Peristeri Eleni , Marinis Theodoros , Andreou Maria
Published: December 2023

Impairments in the broader domain of pragmatics are considered to be a defining feature of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). A challenging aspect of pragmatic competence is the ability to process nonliteral language. Interestingly, previous studies in figurative language comprehension in ASD have demonstrated conflicting results regarding participants' performance. The main scientific debate focuses on the underlying skills which facilitate processing of nonliteral speech in ASD. Namely, Theory of Mind (ToM), language abilities and Executive functions (EFs) are regarded as factors affecting autistic individuals' performance. This review addresses figurative language comprehension in ASD in light of the above three interpretive accounts. We reviewed data from recent studies in this field concluding that autistic children indeed encounter systematic difficulties in the processing of non‐literal language. Moreover, only ToM and verbal skills were found to correlate the most with figurative language comprehension in ASD. Notably, we found that differences related to research methodology and tasks' properties may have led to discrepancies between studies' results. Finally, we argue that future studies should encompass in their experimental design figurative comprehension tasks with minimal linguistic demands and also measures of ToM, verbal ability and EFs in order to shed more light in the independent contribution of those skills to the processing of nonliteral language in ASD.
Meeting Report on the 3rd Chinese American Society for Mass Spectrometry Conference—Advancing Biological and Pharmaceutical Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Chen Hao , Fu Yunlin , Han Mei , Han Xianlin , Hao Ling , Huan Tao , Huang Lan , Huang Ming , Ji Qin , Jiang Tao , Jiang Yong , Li Liang , Li Lingjun , Liang Xiaorong , Lih Mamie , Lin Yanping , Liu Xiaowen , Liu Tao , Liu Yansheng , Ma Shuguang , Peng Junmin , Qi Yue A. , Qu Jun , Shou Wilson , Sun Liangliang , Wang Mingxun , Wang Shuai , Wu Ronghu , Wu Si , Yan Xin , Yang Jun , Yang Weiming , Yang Zhibo , Yu Yonghao , Zhang Hui , Zhang Hui , Zhao Shouxun , Zhu Jiangjiang , Zhu Ying , Wang Yinsheng , Weng Naidong
Published: December 2023

Following the highly successful Chinese American Society for Mass Spectrometry (CASMS) conferences in the previous 2 years, the 3rd CASMS Conference was held virtually on August 28–31, 2023, using the Gather.Town platform to bring together scientists in the MS field. The conference offered a 4‐day agenda with a scientific program consisting of two plenary lectures, and 14 parallel symposia in which a total of 70 speakers presented technological innovations and their applications in proteomics and biological MS and metabo‐lipidomics and pharmaceutical MS. In addition, 16 invited speakers/panelists presented at two research‐focused and three career development workshops. Moreover, 86 posters, 12 lightning talks, 3 sponsored workshops, and 11 exhibitions were presented, from which 9 poster awards and 2 lightning talk awards were selected. Furthermore, the conference featured four young investigator awardees to highlight early‐career achievements in MS from our society. The conference provided a unique scientific platform for young scientists (i.e. graduate students, postdocs, and junior faculty/investigators) to present their research, meet with prominent scientists, learn about career development, and job opportunities (http://casms.org).
A novel liquid chromatography with quadrupole time‐of‐flight‐tandem mass spectroscopy method for ultra‐trace level identification and quantification of the genotoxic impurity 2,6‐diamino‐5‐nitropyrimidin‐4(3H)‐one in valganciclovir hydrochloride
Authors: Ali Shaik Mahammad , Moorthy Manchuri Krishna , Devanna Nayakanti
Published: December 2023

In the present study, the main objective is to develop an analytical method for ultra‐trace level measurement of 2,6‐diamino‐5‐nitropyrimidin‐4(3H)‐one (DMNP) in valganciclovir hydrochloride (VAL) using liquid chromatography‐quadrupole time‐of‐flight‐tandem mass spectroscopy (LC–QTOF–MS/MS). In the early stages of guanine synthesis, DMNP is formed, and guanine is known to be the key starting material for the synthesis of VAL. Taking into consideration DMNP potential genotoxicity, this analytical method has been developed. This method is time saving and suitable for confirming the masses of parent and fragment ions by MS and MS/MS further fragmentation. An isocratic program and Acquity UPLC HSS cyano column (100 × 2.1 mm × 1.8 μm) were used to achieve optimal separation between VAL and the DMNP impurity. A 0.1% ammonia solution in Milli‐Q water was used as mobile phase A, and methanol was used as mobile phase B in the ratio 90:10 v/v in isocratic mode. In accordance with the International Conference on Harmonization's requirements, the developed method was validated. The detection and quantification levels were found to be 0.028 and 0.083 ppm respectively. The DMNP impurity is linear from 0.083 to 1.245 ppm levels with correlation coefficient (R2) of 0.9960. The recoveries were found to be 97.0–107.9%.
Technical aspects of entrapped coronary guidewire retrieval using rotational atherectomy device: A case series
Authors: Shekiladze Nikoloz , Sandesara Pratik B. , Tai Zaheed , Maisuradze Nodar , Jaber Wissam , Nicholson William
Published: December 2023

Background

This article highlights four unique cases where rotational atherectomy (RA Rotapro, Boston Scientific) was used to cut and retrieve an entrapped coronary guidewire with parts extending into the aorta We discuss the technique and step by step approach to the retrieval procedure.

Case Summary

Three of four cases described a guide wire entrapment in the right coronary artery (RCA), and one in the left anterior descending artery via retrograde route. In all cases the guide wire was intact within the intracoronary segment. In Case 1, the guide wire (Runthrough; Terumo) was entrapped in an acute marginal branch during chronic total occlusion (CTO) percutaneous coronary intervention. In Case 2, a whisper wire (Abbott) was entrapped during re‐wiring of the right posterolateral branch through stent struts, the traction on the wire caused severe malformation of distal and proximal stents requiring second staged procedure to complete revascularization of the RCA CTO. In Case 3, a Runthrough wire was entrapped between two layers of stents and fractured at the proximal point with filaments extending into descending aorta. And in Case 4, a Pilot 200 (Abbott) wire was entrapped retrograde in the subintimal space via saphenous vein graft connection by tying a knot at the distal tip of the wire. In all four cases RA was used to successfully cut and remove the entrapped guide wires.

Discussion

Rotablation technique appears to be a safe and effective strategy for the management of entrapped coronary guidewire when conventional strategies fail.
Unilateral foot drop due to prone positioning in COVID‐19: A case report
Authors: Arora Harkesh , Bode Anna , Avula Sreekant , Naik Roopa , Palleti Sujith , Chandramohan Deepak
Published: December 2023

Key Clinical Message

Understanding the complications arising from prone positioning following mechanical ventilation during management of acute respiratory distress from COVID‐19.

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) resulting from coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) has been one of the well‐known complications of the disease since it was first reported in 2020. Mechanical ventilation for severe ARDS has been widely utilized for the management of such patients. Prone positioning (PP) is associated with improved oxygenation and overall outcomes in both intubated and non‐intubated patients. However, there are several complications associated with this procedure, including compressive neuropathies. In this article, we report a case of unilateral foot drop following mechanical ventilation and PP during the management of ARDS from COVID‐19.
Dolutegravir‐induced acquired sideroblastic anemia in a HIV positive patient: A challenging hematologic complication
Authors: Dhonju Kiran , Gautam Ashmita , Dahal Abhinav , Sharma Niraj Kumar , Adhikari Divas , Devkota Lina , Adhikari Prabhat , Tuladhar Sampurna , Pathak Bishnu Deep , Banmala Sabin
Published: December 2023

Key Clinical Message

Dolutegravir, the most recent antiretroviral drug with high efficacy, good tolerability, infrequent drug–drug interactions, and a favorable safety profile has not been reported in current literature as a cause of acquired sideroblastic anemia. Here, we present a 35‐year‐old male patient who was diagnosed with acquired sideroblastic anemia to Dolutegravir therapy.
Neglected massive multinodular goiter during pregnancy with dyspnea and successful normal delivery: A case report
Authors: Nganga Maguzu L. , Mweya Clement N.
Published: December 2023

Key Clinical Message

Prompt coordinated care enables vaginal delivery for severe goiter‐induced airway compression in late pregnancy when expectant management is precluded.

Long‐standing neglected multinodular goiter rarely causes life‐threatening airway compression in late pregnancy. Most cases report cesarean delivery to relieve respiratory distress. Vaginal birth may also be possible, but the evidence is limited. A 30‐year‐old woman with a 7‐year goiter history developed severe dyspnea at 34 weeks gestation. Despite the risks, labor was induced by urgent decompression. She vaginally delivered a premature but healthy infant. Her breathing improved after delivery. She later underwent an uncomplicated thyroidectomy. With careful selection and monitoring, vaginal delivery can be considered for goiter‐induced respiratory compromise when expectant management is precluded. This case demonstrates successful urgent decompression and favorable maternal‐fetal outcomes are possible with a coordinated approach despite the high‐risk scenario.
A decisive lifesaving tool in submassive pulmonary embolism: Bedside echocardiography
Authors: Khanal Shambhu , Adhikari Suman , Yadav Vijay , Aryal Savita , Thapa Shreya , Gajurel Ratna Mani
Published: December 2023

Key Clinical Message

Immediate thrombolysis in submassive pulmonary embolism on the basis of bedside echocardiography can be a lifesaving decision in areas where computed tomography (CT) pulmonary angiogram is not readily available.

Bedside echocardiography can be a rapid diagnostic and decision‐making tool for immediate thrombolysis in submassive pulmonary embolism with evidence of progressively failing ventricles. We report a case of submassive pulmonary embolism in a 26‐year‐old male under testosterone replacement therapy, who was successfully thrombolyzed based on bedside echocardiography findings.
Acute postoperative and rehabilitation care managed in a virtual hybrid hospital‐at‐home after a total knee arthroplasty: A case report
Authors: Paulson Margaret R. , Maita Karla C. , Avila Francisco R. , Torres‐Guzman Ricardo A. , Forte Antonio J. , Brand Rusty C. , Seep Phillip J. , Maniaci Michael J.
Published: December 2023

Key Clinical Messages

This case report demonstrates a virtual hybrid hospital‐at‐home program can provide inpatient‐level postoperative and rehabilitative care after total knee arthroplasty to a medically complex patient in the comfort of their own home.

Advanced Care at Home combines virtual providers with in‐home care delivery. We report a case of virtual postoperative and rehabilitative care in a medically complex patient who underwent a total knee arthroplasty. This new model of care delivery allows effective patient‐provider communication and meets patient needs in the postoperative period.
Modelling occurrence and quantity of longitudinal semicontinuous data simultaneously with nonparametric unobserved heterogeneity
Authors: Yan Guohua , Ma Renjun
Published: December 2023

Semicontinuous data frequently occur in longitudinal studies. The popular two‐part modelling approach deals with longitudinal semicontinuous data by analyzing the occurrence of positive values and the intensity of positive values separately; however, this separation may break down the natural sequence of semicontinuous data within a subject and destroy its serial dependence structure. In this article, we introduce a Tweedie compound Poisson mixed model to study the occurrence of positive values and the quantity of the semicontinuous response simultaneously. In our approach, covariate effects on the semicontinuous response are assessed directly. The correlation within a subject and the unobserved heterogeneity are incorporated with serially correlated nonparametric random effects. Our model unifies subject‐specific and population‐averaged interpretations. We illustrate the approach with applications to a Brief Symptom Inventory study and an infants' fluoride intake study.
ISABELA Studies: Plasma Exposure and Target Engagement Do Not Explain the Lack of Efficacy of Ziritaxestat in Patients with Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis
Authors: Taneja Amit , Jentsch Garrit , Delage Stéphane , Randall Matthew J. , van den Blink Bernt , Bauer Yasmina , Namour Florence
Published: December 2023

Autotaxin (ATX) contributes to the production of lysophosphatidic acid (LPA), which is associated with fibrosis development in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). The ATX inhibitor ziritaxestat failed to reduce decline in forced vital capacity (FVC) in patients with IPF in ISABELA 1 and 2 (NCT03711162 and NCT03733444), two identically designed phase III studies. In the current analysis, we evaluated pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic data from the pooled ISABELA studies to determine whether the lack of efficacy could be attributed to insufficient exposure and/or target engagement. Nonlinear mixed effect modeling was performed to predict ziritaxestat exposure in individual patients and describe its effect on LPA C18:2 levels. We assessed whether there was a correlation between ziritaxestat and ATX concentration and evaluated the relationship between LPA C18:2 reduction and change from baseline in FVC. Ziritaxestat exposure in patients with IPF was numerically lower in those who received ziritaxestat on top of pirfenidone than in those who received ziritaxestat on top of nintedanib or ziritaxestat alone. In most patients, LPA C18:2 reduction was comparable to that reported in healthy volunteers. ATX concentrations increased over time and correlated weakly with ziritaxestat exposure and LPA C18:2 reduction. No correlation between reduction in LPA C18:2 and change from baseline in FVC was apparent. Based on these evaluations, exposure and target engagement are not thought to have contributed to the lack of efficacy observed. We hypothesize that the lack of efficacy of ziritaxestat in the ISABELA program, despite adequate LPA reduction, could be due to the involvement of an alternative pro‐fibrotic pathway.
Application of humic acid increases the economic value and yield of superior tobacco as well as improves the chemical and processing quality
Authors: Pu Yi , Li Jiangzhou , Dai Kuai , Gu Xinghui , Liu Meiju , Ji Qinglin , Zhou Ziwang , Zhao Changhua , Zhang Limeng , Lin Shan
Published: December 2023

The overuse of nitrogen (N) fertilizer in the vegetable growing season leads to a high amount of soil residual N and a decrease of resistance to tobacco disease in the vegetable–tobacco continuous cultivation system, which will seriously threaten the sustainable development of tobacco production. Humic acid (HA) rich in bioactive substances and microelements may enhance leaf growth rate and improve the quality of tobacco. A two‐factor randomized block experiment was carried out over 2 years to evaluate the effects of additional applying HA (0 and 150 L ha−1) combined with three N rates (0, 60, and 90 kg N ha−1) on tobacco growth, economic value, chemical, and processing quality. Applying HA significantly increased the tobacco economic value by 5%–28%. The superior tobacco yields positively correlated with the economic value (R2 = 0.88), which was the key factor determining the increase of the economic value. The application of HA decreased the disease severity and increased the microelement uptake and the daily leaf growth rate in the prosperous growing stage which was positively correlated with the superior tobacco yield. Applying HA significantly improved the chemical quality and reduced the leaf midrib proportion. At the N rate of 60 kg N ha−1, HA showed the best effect of improving quality and increasing income. Our results demonstrated that the addition of HA can significantly improve the economic value and the chemical and processing quality of tobacco. The best effect can be achieved by adjusting the N rate appropriately according to the amount of soil residual N before transplanting tobacco seedlings.
Mapping multiscale breeding bird species distributions across the United States and evaluating their conservation applications
Authors: Carroll Kathleen A. , Pidgeon Anna M. , Elsen Paul R. , Farwell Laura S. , Gudex‐Cross David , Zuckerberg Benjamin , Radeloff Volker C.
Published: December 2023

Species distribution models are vital to management decisions that require understanding habitat use patterns, particularly for species of conservation concern. However, the production of distribution maps for individual species is often hampered by data scarcity, and existing species maps are rarely spatially validated due to limited occurrence data. Furthermore, community‐level maps based on stacked species distribution models lack important community assemblage information (e.g., competitive exclusion) relevant to conservation. Thus, multispecies, guild, or community models are often used in conservation practice instead. To address these limitations, we aimed to generate fine‐scale, spatially continuous, nationwide maps for species represented in the North American Breeding Bird Survey (BBS) between 1992 and 2019. We developed ensemble models for each species at three spatial resolutions—0.5, 2.5, and 5 km—across the conterminous United States. We also compared species richness patterns from stacked single‐species models with those of 19 functional guilds developed using the same data to assess the similarity between predictions. We successfully modeled 192 bird species at 5‐km resolution, 160 species at 2.5‐km resolution, and 80 species at 0.5‐km resolution. However, the species we could model represent only 28%–56% of species found in the conterminous US BBSs across resolutions owing to data limitations. We found that stacked maps and guild maps generally had high correlations across resolutions (median = 84%), but spatial agreement varied regionally by resolution and was most pronounced between the East and West at the 5‐km resolution. The spatial differences between our stacked maps and guild maps illustrate the importance of spatial validation in conservation planning. Overall, our species maps are useful for single‐species conservation and can support fine‐scale decision‐making across the United States and support community‐level conservation when used in tandem with guild maps. However, there remain data scarcity issues for many species of conservation concern when using the BBS for single‐species models.
Wildflower plantings enhance nesting opportunities for soil‐nesting bees
Authors: Williams Neal M. , Buderi Andrew , Rowe Logan , Ward Kimiora
Published: December 2023

Ongoing declines of bees and other pollinators are driven in part by the loss of critical floral resources and nesting substrates. Most conservation/restoration efforts for bees aim to enhance floral abundance and continuity but often assume the same actions will bolster nesting opportunities. Recent research suggests that habitat plantings may not always provide both forage and nesting resources. We evaluated wildflower plantings designed to augment floral resources to determine their ability to enhance nesting by soil‐nesting bees over 3 study years in Northern California agricultural landscapes. We established wildflower plantings along borders of annual row crops and paired each with an unplanted control border. We used soil emergence traps to assess nest densities and species richness of soil‐nesting bees from spring through late summer at paired field borders planted with wildflowers or maintained conventionally as bare or sparsely vegetated areas, as is typical for the region. We also quantified soil‐surface characteristics and flower resources among borders. Wildflower plantings significantly increased nest densities and the richness of bee species using them. Such benefits occurred within the first year of planting and persisted up to 4 years post establishment. The composition of nesting bee communities also differed between wildflower and unenhanced borders. Wildflower plantings differed from controls in multiple characteristics of the soil surface, including vegetation cover, surface microtopography and hardness. Surprisingly, only vegetation cover significantly affected nest densities and species richness. Wildflower plantings are a widespread habitat action with the potential to support wild bees. The demonstrated benefit wildflower plantings had for increasing the nesting of soil‐nesting bees greatly augments their relevance for the conservation of wild bee communities in agricultural and other landscapes. Identifying soil‐surface characteristics that are important for nesting provides critical information to guide the implementation and management of habitats for bees.
Microgeographic variation in demography and thermal regimes stabilize regional abundance of a widespread freshwater fish
Authors: Gallagher Brian K. , Fraser Dylan J.
Published: December 2023

Predicting the persistence of species under climate change is an increasingly important objective in ecological research and management. However, biotic and abiotic heterogeneity can drive asynchrony in population responses at small spatial scales, complicating species‐level assessments. For widely distributed species consisting of many fragmented populations, such as brook trout (Salvelinus fontinalis), understanding the drivers of asynchrony in population dynamics can improve the predictions of range‐wide climate impacts. We analyzed the demographic time series from mark–recapture surveys of 11 natural brook trout populations in eastern Canada over 13 years to examine the extent, drivers, and consequences of fine‐scale population variation. The focal populations were genetically differentiated, occupied a small area (~25 km2) with few human impacts, and experienced similar climate conditions. Recruitment was highly asynchronous, weakly related to climate variables and showed population‐specific relationships with other demographic processes, generating diverse population dynamics. In contrast, individual growth was mostly synchronized among populations and driven by a shared positive relationship with stream temperature. Outputs from population‐specific models were unrelated to four of the five hypothesized drivers (recruitment, growth, reproductive success, phylogenetic distance), but variation in groundwater inputs strongly influenced stream temperature regimes and stock–recruitment relationships. Finally, population asynchrony generated a portfolio effect that stabilized regional species abundance. Our results demonstrated that population demographics and habitat diversity at microgeographic scales can play a significant role in moderating species responses to climate change. Moreover, we suggest that the absence of human activities within study streams preserved natural habitat variation and contributed to asynchrony in brook trout abundance, while the small study area eased monitoring and increased the likelihood of detecting asynchrony. Therefore, anthropogenic habitat degradation, landscape context, and spatial scale must be considered when developing management strategies to monitor and maintain populations that are diverse, stable, and resilient to climate change.
Effect of Charging Protocol on the Performance of LiNi0.6Co0.2Mn0.2O2 Lithium Slurry Batteries
Authors: Yin Zhaoqiang , Xue Bing , Ren Yufei , Peng Linshan , Zuo Weijing , Wu Xiangkun , Zhang Lan
Published: December 2023

With flowable slurry electrode architecture, lithium slurry battery (LSB) has the advantages of high energy density and independent energy and power, which can be used as an excellent energy storage device. However, its practical application is still hindered by multiple factors, including prolonged ion/electron passage, serious interfacial parasitic reactions, low energy efficiency, et al. The special electrode structure can influence the charge percolation pathway, reduce the apparent Li+ diffusion coefficient (), and further impact the battery performances. Herein, a special six‐stage constant current (SS‐CC) charging protocol for LSB is developed based on under different state of charges, that is, higher charging rate at larger . Comparing with other charging protocols commonly used in lithium‐ion batteries such as constant current‐constant voltage, the LSB charged by SS‐CC protocol not only shows higher energy efficiency, but also enhanced cycle stability. This is attributed to the better synergy between lithium desertion and plating, which kinetically reduces the parasitic reactions such as solid–electrolyte interphase accumulation, dead lithium, or dendrite generation. It is believed that this charging protocol design strategy can also be applied in other LSB systems.
Improved Dual Function Materials for CO2 Capture and In Situ Methanation
Authors: Marin James , Parra Paulina , Rios Luis
Published: December 2023

Dual‐function materials (DFM) carry out both the CO2 purification and the reaction with H2, to produce CH4, over the same material and in the same equipment. While noble metals like Ru and Rh have traditionally been the focus of DFM research due to their catalytic activity at low temperatures, they are expensive. Therefore, there is strong interest in discovering more cost‐effective yet highly active catalysts. Herein, improved DFMs are developed by directly reducing Ni‐containing hydrotalcites, without prior air calcination, at moderate temperature. This method results in a high dispersion of Ni as well as in high amounts of small and reduced Ni crystallites with low interaction with the support, which are crucial for the improved behavior observed. The most remarkable and novel result is that these materials show superior CH4 productivity than previously reported DFMs. Under the five operation cycles evaluated, these DFMs exhibit a substantial increase in CO2 capture (1.76 mol kg−1 DFM) and CH4 productivity (0.98 mol kg−1 DFM), in the absence of O2 and water. In the presence of 4.5% O2, both CO2 adsorption and CH4 productivity decrease but they still outperform previous DFMs.
Early genetic testing in pediatric epilepsy: Diagnostic and cost implications
Authors: Swartwood Shanna M. , Morales Ana , Hatchell Kathryn E. , Moretz Chad , McKnight Dianalee , Demmer Laurie , Chagnon Sarah , Aradhya Swaroop , Esplin Edward D. , Bonkowsky Joshua L.
Published: December 2023

The identification of numerous genetically based epilepsies has resulted in the widespread use of genetic testing to inform epilepsy etiology. Our study aims to investigate whether a difference exists in the diagnostic evaluation and healthcare‐related cost expenditures of pediatric patients with epilepsy of unknown etiology who receive a genetic diagnosis through multigene epilepsy panel (MEP) testing and comparing those who underwent early (EGT) versus late genetic testing (LGT). Testing was defined as early (less than 1 year), or late (more than 1 year), following clinical epilepsy diagnosis. A retrospective chart review of pediatric individuals (1–17 years) with epilepsy of unknown etiology who underwent multigene epilepsy panel (MEP) testing identified 28 of 226 (12%) individuals with a pathogenic epilepsy variant [EGT n = 8 (29%); LGT n = 20 (71%)]. The average time from clinical epilepsy diagnosis to genetic diagnosis was 0.25 years (EGT), compared with 7.1 years (LGT). The EGT cohort underwent fewer metabolic tests [EGT n = 0 (0%); LGT n = 16 (80%) (P < 0.01)] and invasive procedures [EGT n = 0 (0%); LGT n = 5 (25%) (P = 0.06)]. Clinical management changes implemented due to genetic diagnosis occurred in 10 (36%) patients [EGT n = 2 (25%); LGT n = 8 (40%) (P = 0.76)]. Early genetic testing with a MEP in pediatric patients with epilepsy of unknown etiology who receive a genetic diagnosis is associated with fewer non‐diagnostic tests and invasive procedures and reduced estimated overall healthcare‐related costs.

Plain language summary

This study aims to investigate whether a difference exists in the diagnostic evaluation and cost expenditures of pediatric patients (1‐17 years) with epilepsy of unknown cause who are ultimately diagnosed with a genetic cause of epilepsy through multigene epilepsy panel testing and comparing those who underwent early testing (less than 1 year) versus late testing (more than 1 year) after clinical epilepsy diagnosis. Of the 28 of 226 individuals with a confirmed genetic cause of epilepsy on multigene epilepsy panel testing, performing early testing was associated with fewer non‐diagnostic tests, fewer invasive procedures and reduced estimated overall healthcare‐related costs.
Alpha‐2a adrenergic receptor activation in genetic absence epilepsy: An absence status model?
Authors: Yavuz Melis , Akkol Serdar , Onat Filiz
Published: December 2023

Objective

The objective of the study was to propose a candidate animal model of absence status epilepticus induced by specific alpha‐2a adrenergic receptor (α2AR) activation. We also aim to investigate the responsiveness of this model to classical anti‐status or anti‐absence medications.

Methods

An α2AR agonist, dexmedetomidine (DEX), was injected intracerebroventricularly into adult rats with genetic absence epilepsy, and their electroencephalography (EEG) was recorded. The total duration, number, and mean duration of each spike‐and‐wave discharges (SWDs) were evaluated. The blocks of absence status events were classified as the initial and second sets of absence statuses. Ethosuximide (ETX) was administered as a pretreatment to another group of rats and later injected with 2.5 μg DEX. In addition, ETX, valproic acid (VPA), diazepam (DIAZ), and atipamezole (ATI) were administered after induced status‐like events following DEX administration. Power spectral characteristics and coherence analysis were performed on the EEG to assess the absence status events and sleep.

Results

The 2.5 μg dose of DEX increased the total SWD duration and induced continuous SWDs up to 26 min. Following the initial absence status event, sleep was induced; then, the second period of absence status‐like activities were initiated. ETX pretreatment blocked the occurrence of absence status‐like activities. Power spectral density analyses revealed that DEX‐induced post‐sleep activities had higher power in delta frequency band (1–4 Hz) and attenuated power of 7 Hz harmonics (14 and 21 Hz) than the pre‐injection seizure. The mean duration of SWDs were decreased in all the groups, but occasional prolonged activities were seen in ETX or VPA‐injected rats but not with DIAZ or ATI.

Significance

This study presents an absence status epilepticus animal model that is activated by α2AR activation to investigate the pathophysiological role of absence status. Unlike other agents ATI switched off the second set of absence statuses to normal SWDs, without sedation or lethargy, can show it may preferentially block absence status‐like activity.

The Plain Language Summary

This study proposes a rat model for prolonged seizures, resembling absence status epilepticus. Activating the brain’s alpha‐2a adrenergic receptor with dexmedetomidine induced seizures lasting up to 26 minutes. Ethosuximide pretreatment and post‐treatment with valproic acid, diazepam, and atipamezole decreased induced seizures. The findings suggest this model is valuable for studying absence status epilepticus. In addition, atipamezole normalized abnormal seizures without sedation, hinting at its potential for targeted treatment and further research.