bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unexpected nucleation mechanism of T1 precipitates by Eshelby inclusion with unstable stacking faults
Authors: Wang Shuo , Wang Junsheng , Xue Chengpeng , Yang Xinghai , Tian Guangyuan , Su Hui , Miao Yisheng , Li Quan , Li Xingxing
Published: April 2024

Aluminum‐lithium (Al‐Li) alloy is one of the most promising lightweight structural materials in the aeronautic and aerospace industries. The key to achieving their excellent mechanical properties lies in tailoring T1 strengthening precipitates; however, the nucleation of such nanoparticles remains unknown. Combining atomic resolution HAADF‐STEM with first‐principles calculations based on the density functional theory (DFT), here, we report a counterintuitive nucleation mechanism of the T1 that evolves from an Eshelby inclusion with unstable stacking faults. This precursor is accelerated by Ag‐Mg clusters to reduce the barrier, forming the structural framework. In addition, these Ag‐Mg clusters trap the free Cu and Li to prepare the chemical compositions for T1. Our findings provide a new perspective on the phase transformations of complex precipitates through solute clusters in terms of geometric structure and chemical bonding functions.
Exploratory pedagogical research of a bespoke eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing therapy training for midwives
Authors: McCullough Julie Elizabeth May , Gillen Patricia , Miller Paul William , Sinclair Marlene , Black Rachel Jane , Miller Paula Taylor , Farrell Derek Patrick
Published: April 2024

Eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is a transdiagnostic, comprehensive, integrative, evidence‐based treatment intervention for post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), complex PTSD, and perinatal PTSD. PTSD can arise from an experience of pregnancy or birth related trauma. Despite this, there is limited availability and access to EMDR therapy within the United Kingdom National Health Service. EMDR is a psychotherapeutic intervention which is usually delivered by highly specialist mental health professionals. However, with such a robust protocol, it is appropriate to consider if other health professionals should be trained to deliver EMDR. Humanitarian trauma capacity‐building projects in a global context have shown that task shifting can assist with addressing unmet mental health therapy needs. Midwives are highly skilled graduates working in the perinatal period who understand that women's emotional health is as important as their physical health. Therefore, it was proposed that EMDR knowledge and skills could be efficiently task shifted to midwives. The aim and objectives were to train midwives to deliver modified EMDR scripted protocols and techniques and explore qualitative and quantitative outcomes of a bespoke EMDR for midwives (EMDR‐m) educational programme. The online training was delivered to the midwives over 4 days with clinical practicums incorporated throughout. Pre and post‐tests demonstrated an increase in their EMDR knowledge, skills and confidence. EMDR Group Supervision provided by three experienced EMDR Accredited Practitioners was mandatory for 6 weeks post‐training and ongoing one‐to‐one supervision was made available. Midwives scored the course 9.6/10 (range 8–10) and described it as ‘amazing’ and ‘invaluable’. Challenges for the future include ring‐fenced time and an appropriate space to deliver the therapy. Those midwives who completed the training have progressed to deliver early EMDR‐m interventions in a perinatal mental health research study in their own Health and Social Care Trust (reported elsewhere).
Identifying gray matter alterations in Cushing's disease using machine learning: An interpretable approach
Authors: Long Yue , Ren Jie , Cheng FuChao , Duan YuMei , Wang BaoFeng , Sun Yuhao , Sun QingFang , Bian LiuGuan , Yi JunChen , Qin Ying , Huang RongBing , Guo WeiTong , Jiang Hong , Liu Chang , Feng Xiao , Qin Ling
Published: April 2024

Background

Cushing's Disease (CD) is a rare clinical syndrome characterized by excessive secretion of adrenocorticotrophic hormone, leading to significant functional and structural brain alterations as observed in Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). While traditional statistical analysis has been widely employed to investigate these MRI changes in CD, it has lacked the ability to predict individual‐level outcomes.

Purpose

To address this problem, this paper has proposed an interpretable machine learning (ML) framework, including model‐level assessment, feature‐level assessment, and biology‐level assessment to ensure a comprehensive analysis based on structural MRI of CD.

Methods

The ML framework has effectively identified the changes in brain regions in the stage of model‐level assessment, verified the effectiveness of these altered brain regions to predict CD from normal controls in the stage of feature‐level assessment, and carried out a correlation analysis between altered brain regions and clinical symptoms in the stage of biology‐level assessment.

Results

The experimental results of this study have demonstrated that the Insula, Fusiform gyrus, Superior frontal gyrus, Precuneus, and the opercular portion of the Inferior frontal gyrus of CD showed significant alterations in brain regions. Furthermore, our study has revealed significant correlations between clinical symptoms and the frontotemporal lobes, insulin, and olfactory cortex, which also have been confirmed by previous studies.

Conclusions

The ML framework proposed in this study exhibits exceptional potential in uncovering the intricate pathophysiological mechanisms underlying CD, with potential applicability in diagnosing other diseases.
Pseudoexon activation by deep intronic variation in GNE myopathy with thrombocytopenia
Authors: Jiao Kexin , Cheng Nachuan , Huan Xiao , Zhang Jialong , Ding Yu , Luan Xinghua , Liu LingChun , Wang Xilu , Zhu Bochen , Du Kunzhao , Fan Jiale , Gao Mingshi , Xia Xingyu , Wang Ningning , Wang Tao , Xi Jianying , Luo Sushan , Lu Jiahong , Zhao Chongbo , Yue Dongyue , Zhu Wenhua
Published: April 2024

Introduction/Aims

GNE myopathy is a rare autosomal recessive disorder caused by pathogenic variants in the GNE gene, which is essential for the sialic acid biosynthesis pathway. Although over 300 GNE variants have been reported, some patients remain undiagnosed with monoallelic pathogenic variants. This study aims to analyze the entire GNE genomic region to identify novel pathogenic variants.

Methods

Patients with clinically compatible GNE myopathy and monoallelic pathogenic variants in the GNE gene were enrolled. The other GNE pathogenic variant was verified using comprehensive methods including exon 2 quantitative polymerase chain reaction and nanopore long‐read single‐molecule sequencing (LRS).

Results

A deep intronic GNE variant, c.862+870C>T, was identified in nine patients from eight unrelated families. This variant generates a cryptic splice site, resulting in the activation of a novel pseudoexon between exons 5 and 6. It results in the insertion of an extra 146 nucleotides into the messengerRNA (mRNA), which is predicted to result in a truncated humanGNE1(hGNE1) protein. Peanut agglutinin（PNA） lectin staining of muscle tissues showed reduced sialylation of mucin O‐glycans on sarcolemmal glycoproteins. Notably, a third of patients with the c.862+870C>T variant exhibited thrombocytopenia. A common core haplotype harboring the deep intronic GNE variant was found in all these patients.

Discussion

The transcript with pseudoexon activation potentially affects sialic acid biosynthesis via nonsense‐mediated mRNA decay, or resulting in a truncated hGNE1 protein, which interferes with normal enzyme function. LRS is expected to be more frequently incorporated in genetic analysis given its efficacy in detecting hard‐to‐find pathogenic variants.
Sport fish movement responses to a littoral zone coarse woody habitat addition
Authors: Smith Quinnlan C. , Shaw Stephanie L. , Raabe Joshua K. , Sass Greg G. , Hrabik Thomas R.
Published: April 2024

Objective

Fish movements and distributions throughout an ecosystem are important for understanding ecological interactions, conservation, and management. Coarse woody habitat (CWH) additions are a popular habitat enhancement tool that can influence movements and distributions of fishes; however, behavioral responses in relation to CWH additions are understudied. The objectives of our study were to test for changes in habitat use and behavioral responses of Muskellunge Esox masquinongy, Smallmouth Bass Micropterus dolomieu, and Walleye Sander vitreus to CWH additions in a small inland northern lake over 3 years and to evaluate two common forms of fish tracking to estimate daily movement of these fishes.

Methods

We used passive integrated transponder tag data collected continuously at 10 littoral sites and radiotelemetry data collected biweekly during the summer–fall months prior (2017) and following (2018–2019) CWH addition to examine movement behaviors and estimate daily probability of movement for the three species among lake habitats using multistate models.

Result

Walleye were the most likely to remain near CWH, followed by Smallmouth Bass and Muskellunge. All species were more likely to move away from the modified and unmodified littoral zones and were more likely to remain in the offshore zone. Increased movement of fish may be in response to CWH creating a refuge for forage fish and subsequent increases in prey search times.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that CWH additions may alter established species-specific annual movements, distributions, and habitat use to differing degrees in ecosystems, as our results differ from other CWH studies. Methodologically, radio-tagging was most effective for offshore tracking but most labor intensive. Novel passive integrated transponder arrays (less labor intensive once installed) worked well to monitor movement between habitat types in shallow littoral areas. Long-term monitoring of behavioral changes will be essential to assessing the stability changes caused by these habitat alterations.
Stochastic assessment of 3‐D tunnels in near‐fault ground motion using modified domain reduction method
Authors: Banjare Bhavesh , Avatar Gauri Ranjan Krishna Chand
Published: April 2024

A robust assessment of tunnels due to uncertainties present in soil and ground motion properties can affect the dynamic response of these structures. In this paper, a stochastic analysis considering an aleatory variability in shear velocity Vs by performing Monte Carlo simulations and assessing its influence on underground tunnels. To numerically assess the response of the soil‐tunnel system to near‐fault earthquake ground motion, the required computational domain usually spans multiple kilometers including both earthquake fault and the structure. Thus, these simulations are computationally expensive. An efficient alternative method, that is, the Domain Reduction Method (DRM), in which a modular two‐step methodology for reducing the computational costs in the large domain analysis is employed. A 3‐D soil‐tunnel structure interaction is modeled to simulate the response of tunnel subjected to an inclined earthquake fault. The numerical simulation of the soil‐tunnel‐fault system is conducted in an open‐source FE package called Multi‐hazard Analysis for STOchastic time DOmaiN phenomena (MASTODON) based on MOOSE framework. The interactive analyses are carried out for three distinct types of soils based on National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program (NEHRP) provision, that is, soft, medium, and hard, by generating 130 realizations. The results provide many insights into the influence of local site effects, that is, frequency shift for the peak response and the importance of input ground motion characteristics that govern the response of underground structures. The dynamic response of the structure is very sensitive to the uncertainty in rock material properties, especially, the stiffness of the rock sample and the shear wave velocity.
Post mortem analysis of hepatic volume and lipid content by magnetic resonance imaging and spectroscopy in fixed murine neonates
Authors: Jonuscheit Marc , Uhlemeyer Celina , Korzekwa Benedict , Schouwink Marten , Öner‐Sieben Soner , Ensenauer Regina , Roden Michael , Belgardt Bengt‐Frederik , Schrauwen‐Hinderling Vera B.
Published: April 2024

Maternal obesity and hyperglycemia are linked to an elevated risk for obesity, diabetes, and steatotic liver disease in the adult offspring. To establish and validate a noninvasive workflow for perinatal metabolic phenotyping, fixed neonates of common mouse strains were analyzed postmortem via magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)/magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) to assess liver volume and hepatic lipid (HL) content. The key advantage of nondestructive MRI/MRS analysis is the possibility of further tissue analyses, such as immunohistochemistry, RNA extraction, and even proteomics, maximizing the data that can be gained per individual and therefore facilitating comprehensive correlation analyses. This study employed an MRI and 1H‐MRS workflow to measure liver volume and HL content in 65 paraformaldehyde‐fixed murine neonates at 11.7 T. Liver volume was obtained using semiautomatic segmentation of MRI acquired by a RARE sequence with 0.5‐mm slice thickness. HL content was measured by a STEAM sequence, applied with and without water suppression. T1 and T2 relaxation times of lipids and water were measured for respective correction of signal intensity. The HL content, given as CH2/(CH2 + H2O), was calculated, and the intrasession repeatability of the method was tested. The established workflow yielded robust results with a variation of ~3% in repeated measurements for HL content determination. HL content measurements were further validated by correlation analysis with biochemically assessed triglyceride contents (R2 = 0.795) that were measured in littermates. In addition, image quality also allowed quantification of subcutaneous adipose tissue and stomach diameter. The highest HL content was measured in C57Bl/6N (4.2%) and the largest liver volume and stomach diameter in CBA (53.1 mm3 and 6.73 mm) and NMRI (51.4 mm3 and 5.96 mm) neonates, which also had the most subcutaneous adipose tissue. The observed effects were independent of sex and litter size. In conclusion, we have successfully tested and validated a robust MRI/MRS workflow that allows assessment of morphology and HL content and further enables paraformaldehyde‐fixed tissue‐compatible subsequent analyses in murine neonates.
Availability of individual proteins for quantitative analysis in postmortem brains preserved in two different brain banks
Authors: Nagaoka Atsuko , Hino Mizuki , Izumi Ryuta , Shishido Risa , Ishibashi Miki , Hatano Masataka , Sainouchi Makoto , Kakita Akiyoshi , Tomita Hiroaki , Kunii Yasuto
Published: April 2024

Aim

Postmortem brain research is necessary for elucidating the pathology of schizophrenia; an increasing number of studies require a combination of suitable tissue samples preserved at multiple brain banks. In this study, we examined whether a comparative study of protein expression levels can be conducted using postmortem brain samples preserved in different facilities.

Methods

We compared the demographic factors of postmortem brain samples preserved in two institutions and measured and compared the expression levels of glyceraldehyde‐3‐phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) in the prefrontal cortex and superior temporal gyrus. GAPDH is generally used as a loading control for western blotting, and GFAP is considered as an astrocyte marker in the brain.

Results

We found significant differences between the two institutions in postmortem interval, age at death, and preservation time. To reduce the effects of these differences on our measurements, the parameters were set as covariates in our analyses of covariance. Subsequently, no differences in GAPDH and GFAP expression were found between institutions.

Conclusions

When studies are conducted using brain samples preserved in different brain banks, differences in demographic factors should be carefully considered and taken into account by statistical methods to minimize their impact as much as possible. Since there was no significant difference in the protein expression levels of GAPDH and GFAP in either region between the two institutions that preserved the postmortem brains, we concluded that it is possible to perform protein quantitative analysis assuming that there is no effect of difference between two institutions.
Characterizing shallow fault zones by integrating profile, borehole and array measurements of seismic data and distributed acoustic sensing
Authors: Rein Nikolaus , Isken Marius P. , Domigall Dorina , Ohrnberger Matthias , Hannemann Katrin , Krüger Frank , Korn Michael , Dahm Torsten
Published: April 2024

Within the framework of the Intercontinental Scientific Drilling Programme (ICDP) ‘Drilling the Eger Rift’ project, five boreholes were drilled in the Vogtland (Germany) and West Bohemia (Czech Republic) regions. Three of them will be used to install high‐frequency three‐dimensional (3D) seismic arrays. The pilot 3D array is located 1.5 km south of Landwüst (Vogtland). The borehole, with a depth of 402 m, was equipped with eight geophones and a fibre optic cable behind the casing used for distributed acoustic sensing (DAS) measurements. The borehole is surrounded by a surface array consisting of 12 seismic stations with an aperture of 400 m. During drilling, a highly fractured zone was detected between 90 m and 165 m depth and interpreted as a possible fault zone. To characterize the fault zone, two vertical seismic profiling (VSP) experiments with drop weight sources at the surface were conducted. The aim of the VSP experiments was to estimate a local 3D seismic velocity tomography including the imaging of the steep fault zone. Our 3D tomography indicates P‐wave velocities between 1500 m/s and 3000 m/s at shallow depths (0–20 m) and higher P‐wave velocities of up to 5000 m/s at greater depths. In addition, the results suggest a NW–SE striking low‐velocity zone (LVZ; characterized by = 1500–3000 m/s), which crosses the borehole at a depth of about 90–165 m. This LVZ is inferred to be a shallow non‐tectonic, steep fault zone with a dip angle of about . The depth and width of the fault zone are supported by logging data as electrical conductivity, core recovery and changes in lithology. In this study, we present an example to test and verify 3D tomography and imaging approaches of shallow non‐tectonic fault zones based on active seismic experiments using simple surface drop weights as sources and borehole chains as well as borehole DAS behind casing as sensors, complemented by seismic stand‐alone surface arrays.
Combing through museum collections. A “museomic” application of ZooMS
Authors: Monticone Alessia , Panero Elisa , Heritier Erika , Pergolizzi Barbara , Bello Federica Dal , Mecarelli Enrica , Boano Rosa , de Vingo Paolo , Codlin Maria , Pessione Enrica , Demarchi Beatrice
Published: April 2024

This article presents the application of Zooarchaeology by Mass Spectrometry (ZooMS) to osseous Longobard artifacts from the collection of the “Musei Reali di Torino” (MRT; Torino, Italy). Like most archaeological items made of worked bone/antler in museum collections, the raw material of such specimens is usually attributed to deer, often without accurate taxonomic attribution. Therefore, the main aim of the present investigation was to shed light on taxonomical aspects using biomolecular approaches.

We first examined the collagen preservation of the artifacts, then we compared three sampling methods (invasive, eraser‐based, and bag‐based), and we evaluated the quality of the collagen fingerprint obtained. Overall, we found a good, albeit not optimal, biomolecular preservation status, even in heavily restored objects coming from the 19th‐century collections.

Out of 37 specimens analyzed through matrix‐assisted laser desorption ionization–time of flight–mass spectrometry (MALDI‐TOF‐MS) and nanoHPLC‐tandem MS, 31 yielded usable data. The results confirmed the widespread use of cervid as the osseous raw material for comb‐making in Longobard times in Piedmont, but we also found that bovine bones (Bos but also other taxa belonging to family Bovidae, such as caprines) and equid bones were exploited—demonstrating opportunistic use of animal resources. As far as the method is concerned, the ZooMS peptide markers useful to distinguish between bovids and cervids (m/z 1580 vsm/z 1550) (Buckley et al., 2009) are more frequently detected when analyzing bone chips, that is, with the invasive sampling method, rather than collagen extracts obtained using non‐invasive techniques. Nonetheless, the eraser method (eZooMS) seems to be a good trade‐off between invasivity and quality of the information obtained: eZooMS sampling does not leave visible marks on the object and therefore can contribute to facilitating the routine application of biomolecular methods in the daily practice of museum conservation laboratories. Indeed, an important outcome of the present study has been the establishment of a close collaboration between museum and biomolecular specialists.

Taken together, our results suggest that the Longobards had a preference towards locally available resources, although this work did not highlight a clear association between raw material (deer, cattle, and other bovids) and object typology (in the case of combs) or function, except for buttons. The overall information obtained by this study confirms the potential of biomolecular approaches for reconstructing the biography of museum objects with a long and complex life and demonstrates the value of zooarchaeological study of museum collections.
Repeated photodynamic therapy using a chlorin e6‐embedded device to prolong the therapeutic effects on obesity
Authors: Park Jung‐Hoon , Kim Ji Won , Ryu Dae Sung , Lee Hyeonseung , Na Hee Kyong , Noh Jin Hee , Kim Do Hoon , Lee Sanghee , Na Kun , Jung Hwoon‐Yong
Published: April 2024

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of repeated photodynamic therapy (PDT) with a chlorin e6 (Ce6)‐embedded intragastric satiety‐inducing device (ISD) to maintain therapeutic effects of obesity in a juvenile pig.

Methods

The Ce6‐embedded ISD was fabricated with a dipping method. Twelve pigs were divided into four groups of three and were administered control, single, biweekly, or weekly PDT, respectively. The therapeutic effects were assessed by comparing the results of phototoxicity, endoscopy, fluoroscopy, hormone and weight changes, and histological examination.

Results

The percentage of total body weight gain was significantly suppressed in PDT‐treated pigs compared with control pigs (all p < 0.001). This suppression persisted in the repeated PDT groups, but percentage of total body weight gain gradually increased when PDT was stopped. Ghrelin levels in the PDT‐treated groups were significantly lower and leptin levels were significantly higher than those in the control group (all p < 0.05). Inflammatory cell infiltration, collagen, TUNEL, and anti‐ghrelin‐positive deposition in the weekly group were significantly higher than those in the control, single, and biweekly groups (all p < 0.01).

Conclusions

Repeated and periodic PDT was technically feasible and safe and successfully maintained the therapeutic effects against obesity while eliminating the indwelling time and reducing ISD‐related complications in pigs.
Different subtypes of chronic fatigue in childhood cancer survivors: A DCCSS LATER study
Authors: Penson Adriaan , Walraven Iris , Bronkhorst Ewald , Grootenhuis Martha A. , Maurice‐Stam Heleen , Loo Margriet van der Heiden‐van der , Tissing Wim J. E. , van der Pal Helena J. H. , de Vries Andrica C. H. , Bresters Dorine , Ronckers Cécile M. , van den Heuvel‐Eibrink Marry M. , Neggers Sebastian , Versluys Birgitta A. B. , Louwerens Marloes , Pluijm Saskia M. F. , Blijlevens Nicole , van Dulmen‐den Broeder Eline , Kremer Leontien C. M. , Knoop Hans , Loonen Jacqueline ,   the Dutch LATER study group
Published: April 2024

Introduction

The aim of the current study was to investigate whether subtypes of chronic fatigue (CF) can be identified in childhood cancer survivors (CCS), and if so, to determine the characteristics of participants with a specific subtype.

Methods

Participants were included from the nationwide DCCSS LATER cohort. The Checklist Individual Strength (CIS) was completed to assess fatigue. Participants with CF (scored ≥35 on the fatigue severity subscale and indicated to suffer from fatigue for ≥6 months) were divided into subgroups using two‐step cluster analysis based on the CIS concentration, motivation, and physical activity subscales. Differences between groups on demographics, psychosocial, lifestyle, and treatment‐related variables were determined using ANOVA and chi‐square analyses (univariable) and multinomial regression analysis (multivariable).

Results

A total of 1910 participants participated in the current study (n = 450 with CF; n = 1460 without CF). Three CF subgroups were identified: Subgroup 1 (n = 133, 29% of participants) had CF with problems in physical activity; Subgroup 2 (n = 111, 25% of participants) had CF with difficulty concentrating; and Subgroup 3 (n = 206, 46% of participants) had multi‐dimensional CF. Compared to Subgroup 1, Subgroup 2 more often reported sleep problems, limitations in social functioning, and less often have more than two comorbidities. Subgroup 3 more often reported depression, sleep problems, a lower self‐esteem, and limitations in social functioning and a lower educational level compared to Subgroup 1.

Conclusion

Different subgroups of CCS with CF can be identified based on fatigue dimensions physical activity, motivation and concentration. Results suggest that different intervention strategies, tailored for each subgroup, might be beneficial.
Study on the durability of compression behavior for glass fiber‐reinforced polypropylene thermoplastic composite bars in various aging environments
Authors: Zhou Ping , Dong Shaoce , Li Chenggao , Kong Deao , Bai Yanbo , Xian Guijun , Yue Qingrui
Published: April 2024

In reinforced concrete structures, GFRP bars are becoming acceptable as internal reinforcement subject to compressive load and hygrothermal environments. The paper presents an experimental study on the compressive behavior, thermodynamic properties, and degradation mechanism of the glass fiber‐reinforced polypropylene (GFRPP) bars after aging in distilled water (DW), alkaline solution (AS) and seawater and sea sand concrete (SWSSC) solution at 21, 40, and 60°C up to 120 days. The effect of specimen assembly methods, and slenderness rations (Lu/Db) on the compressive behavior was evaluated on the control GFRPP bars. After immersion, the compressive strength of the GFRPP bars was significantly affected by the type of solution, immersion time, and temperature. Typically, the compressive strength retention was decreased by 25.8%, 30.0%, and 33.0% at 60°C in DW, AS, and SWSSC solutions, respectively. The degradation mechanism of the compressive behavior of GFRPP bars was revealed through SEM images and FTIR spectroscopy analysis, and the debonding of fiber‐resin interfaces, chemical etching of glass fibers, and changes in polypropylene functional groups were confirmed or discovered. Finally, based on the Arrhenius theory, the long‐term life prediction of compression strength in three typical service environments was conducted to provide the design guideline for reinforcement concrete.

Highlights

Effect of specimen assembly and Lu/db on compressive behavior of GFRPP bars

Thermodynamic behavior of the GFRPP bars under different aging environments

Revealed the degradation mechanism of GFRPP bars under hygrothermal environments

Predicted the service life of GFRPP bars in typical service environments
Development of high‐strength carbon fiber/thermoplastic epoxy resin composites and it's recyclability
Authors: Heng Yanqing , Qi Xiaoming , Xu Lu , Yan Yongjie , Ni Qingqing
Published: April 2024

The realization of the recycling of epoxy resin composites has important practical significance for “carbon peak, carbon neutrality” and resource conservation, and recycling. In this study, high‐strength carbon fiber fabric reinforced thermoplastic epoxy (TPE) composites (CFF/TPE) were successfully fabricated by a laminated hot‐pressing process, and both CFF and TPE were efficiently recycled via an ultrasonication‐assisted solvent method. The CFF/TPE composites present mechanical properties (tensile strength: 705 MPa, flexural strength: 711 MPa) by optimizing the process parameters, which are comparable to those of carbon fiber reinforced thermosetting epoxy. Moreover, the tensile strength retention rates of recycled CFF and TPE are 92% and 89%, respectively. The recycled CFF can be completely reprocessed through the same hot‐pressing process, and the recycled CFF/TPE composite exhibited high efficiency reuse and excellent mechanical properties (high strength of reaching 94% of CFF/TPE). This approach provides a new strategy for the facile production of high‐performance carbon fiber reinforced epoxy composites with high efficiency recycling.

Highlights

Recyclable carbon fiber fabric reinforced thermoplastic epoxy composites (CFF/TPE) are fabricated by a laminated hot‐pressing process.

The composite exhibits excellent mechanical properties, which is comparable to that of carbon fiber reinforced thermosetting epoxy.

The carbon fiber fabric and thermoplastic epoxy can be efficiently recycled via a simple ultrasonication‐assisted solvent method, and resued.
Registration of ‘FL12034‐10’ oat: A new dual‐purpose disease resistant cultivar for Florida and southern United States
Authors: Babar Md Ali , Harrison Stephen A. , Blount Ann , Barnett Ronald D. , Johnson Jerry , Mergoum Mohamed , Mailhot Daniel J , Murphy J. Paul , Mason Richard E. , Shakiba Ehsan , Ibrahim Amir M. H. , Sutton Russell , Simoneaux Bryan , Boyles Richard , DeWitt Noah , Stancil Brad , Marshall David , Fountain Myron , Klos Kathy Esvelt , Khan Naeem , Wallau Marcelo , Jordan Jr Henry G. , Ma Xuefeng , Arbelaez Juan
Published: April 2024

‘FL12034‐10’ (Reg. no. CV‐389, PI 704483), a facultative oat (Avena sativa L.) cultivar, co‐developed by the University of Florida and Louisiana State University Agricultural Center, was released in October 2022. FL12034‐10 was derived from a three‐way cross LA06055SBSBSB‐79/FL11048 F1. It is well adapted across the southern United States and provides producers with a medium‐tall, mid‐season, awnless, white‐glumed, dual‐purpose oat that has high yield potential, good straw strength, and good forage yield. FL12034‐10 was observed to be uniform and stable across environments in the southern United States from 2017 to present. The line possesses a semi‐prostrate growth habit, vigorous growth, and high tillering capacity, and has large leaves that are dark green in color. It expresses moderate‐to‐high levels of resistance to most oat diseases prevalent in the southern United States. The crown and stem rust and Barley yellow dwarf virus ratings (0–9 scale) of FL12034‐10 were 1.7, 0.7, and 1.5, respectively, across different environments. The disease ratings were better than most of the checks. The grain yield average of FL12034‐10 from 41 environments during 2018–2021 was 6437 kg ha−1, which is competitive with check cultivars that are widely used in the southern part of the United States. The forage yield of FL12034‐10 ranged from 2358 to 6617 kg ha−1 (20 environments), which was higher than most of the checks. FL12034‐10 demonstrated better lodging and disease resistance, higher grain yield potential, and higher mid‐winter to late spring season forage yield potential than Horizon 720 and Legend 567 oats released by University of Florida.
Registration of ‘CP 15‐1407’ sugarcane for muck soils
Authors: Islam M. S. , Sandhu Hardev S. , Zhao Duli , Sood Sushma , Momotaz Aliya , Coto Arbelo Orlando , Baltazar Miguel , Davidson R. Wayne , Rounds Elliott
Published: April 2024

The complex hybrid sugarcane (Saccharum spp.) cultivar ‘CP 15‐1407’ (Reg. no. CV‐217; PI 704105) was made available to growers in June 2022 for cultivation on muck soils in Florida. This development took 10 years thanks to collaborative research by the USDA–ARS, the Florida Sugar Cane League Inc., and the University of Florida. It started at Canal Point (CP) as a bi‐parental cross between ‘CP 08‐1110’ (female) and CP 05‐1616 (male). Due to its high stalk weight, adequate disease resistance, higher recoverable sugar, and equivalent cane yield to best check ‘CP 96‐1252’ on muck soils, the Florida Sugarcane Variety Committee recommended releasing CP 15‐1407. It has demonstrated resistance to brown rust, orange rust, sugarcane mosaic, smut, leaf scald, and ratoon stunt and is moderately susceptible to yellow leaf. In late‐stage, on‐farm yield trials, CP 15‐1407 stalk weights were 27.8% heavier than that of CP 96‐1252, while cane yields and economic index (EI) did not differ from CP 96‐1252. Florida sugarcane output and crop sustainability are predicted to benefit from CP 15‐1407's sustained cane production capacity and proven disease resistance.
Differential effects of physiological agonists on the proteome of platelet‐derived extracellular vesicles
Authors: Moon Mitchell J. , Rai Alin , Sharma Prerna , Fang Haoyun , McFadyen James D. , Greening David W. , Peter Karlheinz
Published: April 2024

Arterial thrombosis manifesting as heart attack and stroke is the leading cause of death worldwide. Platelets are central mediators of thrombosis that can be activated through multiple activation pathways. Platelet‐derived extracellular vesicles (pEVs), also known as platelet‐derived microparticles, are granular mixtures of membrane structures produced by platelets in response to various activating stimuli. Initial studies have attracted interest on how platelet agonists influence the composition of the pEV proteome. In the current study, we used physiological platelet agonists of varying potencies which reflect the microenvironments that platelets experience during thrombus formation: adenosine diphosphate, collagen, thrombin as well as a combination of thrombin/collagen to induce platelet activation and pEV generation. Proteomic profiling revealed that pEVs have an agonist‐dependent altered proteome in comparison to their cells of origin, activated platelets. Furthermore, we found that various protein classes including those related to coagulation and complement (prothrombin, antithrombin, and plasminogen) and platelet activation (fibrinogen) are attributed to platelet EVs following agonist stimulation. This agonist‐dependent altered proteome suggests that protein packaging is an active process that appears to occur without de novo protein synthesis. This study provides new information on the influence of physiological agonist stimuli on the biogenesis and proteome landscape of pEVs.
International disparities in diagnosis and treatment access for cystic fibrosis
Authors: Guo Jonathan , King Ibukunoluwa , Hill Andrew
Published: April 2024

Background

Elexacaftor/tezacaftor/ivacaftor (ETI) has revolutionized cystic fibrosis (CF) treatment. However, previous research has demonstrated profound global disparities in diagnosis and treatment access. If unaddressed, these threaten to widen existing health inequities. Therefore, in this analysis we aimed to reappraise gaps and evaluate progress in diagnosis and treatment equity in high‐income (HIC) versus low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMICs).

Methods

Estimates of the global CF population were made in 158 countries using patient registries, systematic literature searches, and an international survey of 14 CF experts. Estimates of the global burden of undiagnosed CF were made using epidemiological studies identified in literature searches and registry coverage data. The proportion of people receiving ETI was estimated using publicly available revenue data and a survey of 23 national drug pricing databases.

Results

188,336 (163,421–209,204) people are estimated to have CF in 96 countries. Of these, 111,767 (59%) were diagnosed and 51,322 (27%) received ETI. The undiagnosed patient burden is estimated to be 76,569 people, with 82% in LMICs. ETI is reimbursed in 35 HICs, but only one LMIC. Four years after approval, there are 13,723 people diagnosed with CF who live in a country where ETI is inaccessible. This increases to 76,199 when including the estimated undiagnosed population.

Conclusions

Equitable access to CFTR modulators must become a top priority for the international CF community. ETI costs up to $322,000 per year but could be manufactured for $5000 to allow access under a voluntary license. Given the extent of disparities, other mechanisms to improve access that circumvent the manufacturer should also be considered.
The Child Opportunity Index 2.0 and exacerbation‐prone asthma in a cohort of urban children
Authors: Skeen Emily H. , Moore Camille M. , Federico Monica J. , Seibold Max A. , Liu Andrew H. , Hamlington Katharine L.
Published: April 2024

Rationale

Social determinants of health underlie disparities in asthma. However, the effects of individual determinants likely interact, so a summary metric may better capture their impact. The Child Opportunity Index 2.0 (COI) is one such tool, yet its association with exacerbation‐prone (EP) asthma is unknown.

Objective

To investigate the association between the COI and EP asthma and clinical measures of asthma severity in children.

Methods

We analyzed data from two prospective observational pediatric asthma cohorts (n = 193). Children were classified as EP (≥1 exacerbation in the past 12 months) or exacerbation‐null (no exacerbations in the past 5 years). Spirometry, exhaled nitric oxide, IgE, and Composite Asthma Severity Index (CASI) were obtained. The association between COI and EP status was assessed with logistic regression. We fit linear and logistic regression models to test the association between COI and each clinical measure.

Results

A 20‐point COI decrease conferred 40% higher odds of EP asthma (OR 1.4; 95%CI 1.1–1.76). The effect was similar when adjusted for age and sex (OR 1.38, 95%CI 1.1–1.75) but was attenuated with additional adjustment for race and ethnicity (OR 1.19, 95%CI 0.92–1.54). A similar effect was seen for the Social/Economic and Education COI domains but not the Health/Environment Domain. A 20‐point COI decrease was associated with an increase in CASI of 0.34. COI was not associated with other clinical measures.

Conclusions

Lower COI was associated with greater odds of EP asthma. This highlights the potential use of the COI to understand neighborhood‐level risk and identify community targets to reduce asthma disparities.
Construction of circular RNA‐based competing endogenous RNA network in colon cancer
Authors: Gu Zhengyu , Wu Weiyi , Lu Jinnan , Shen Jun
Published: April 2024

Circular RNAs (CircRNAs) are now under discussion as novel promising biomarkers for patients with various tumors. Our study aimed to identify circRNAs related to the progression of colon cancer and to further investigate their roles in the development of colon cancer base on The Cancer Genome Atlas database. The competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network was constructed based on 4 circRNAs, 14 miRNAs, and 229 mRNAs. Meanwhile, three hub genes were identified via the protein protein interaction networks (PPI) network. It should be noted that only RUNX1 targeted by circ‐0084615 and mir‐330‐3p was confirmed as a survival‐related gene. Further analyses indicated the possible function of RUNX1 in colon progression, such as angiogenesis, epithelial–mesenchymal transition, hedgehog signaling and so on. Further investigations were conducted into the correlation between RUNX1 expression profiles and immune cells. Finally, we validated the expression of the circ‐0084615/mir‐330‐3p/RUNX1 axis in clinical specimens. In conclusion, we constructed ceRNA network and revealed that the circ‐0084615/mir‐330‐3p/RUNX1 axis serves as a critical role in colon cancer.
From strict socialism to social evils: Changing childhoods over three generations in urban Vietnam
Authors: Turner Sarah , Ngo Hanh Thuy , Nguyen Thao Dinh , Buttery Yvette
Published: April 2024

Over the span of three generations, Vietnam's capital Hanoi, has transformed from a modest city grappling with food scarcity during the socialist subsidy era to a sprawling metropolis marked by gated communities and a widening wealth divide. Employing a child‐centric, multi‐generational family methodology, with members of 13 families across three generations, we explore the diverse childhood experiences shaped by these rapid urban transformations. Grandparents shared stories of unrestricted outdoor play despite challenging conditions, while parents noted a lack of academic pressures in their youth. Contemporary children enjoy access to new technology and consumer goods, but face important mobility restrictions due to parental and societal concerns. Our findings reveal that the Vietnamese context engendered distinctive childhood reflections for the two older generations, contrasting with childhoods in non‐socialist contexts during the same periods. Meanwhile, the contemporary Vietnamese state has crafted a ‘social evils’ discourse that shapes current childhood opportunities in specific ways. By being centered on urban Vietnam—a context vastly different from Global North‐dominated narratives in childhood studies—our study acts as a counterpoint that enriches the field with perspectives from a politically‐socialist state. Focusing on the unique childhood experiences within Hanoi's evolving socio‐spatial landscape, we advocate for more diverse understandings of childhood that respect varied realities across contexts.
Further complications to poverty of place: daily poverty dynamics across space
Authors: Mueller J. Tom , Heykmatpour Peyman , Brooks Matthew M. , Baker Regina S.
Published: April 2024

It is well established that living in a high‐poverty area often leads to lower levels of well‐being for residents. While these deleterious effects of place‐based poverty are well‐documented, the conceptual mechanisms linking poverty of place to negative outcomes remain debated, and the our understanding of the spatial patterning of poverty remains underdeveloped. In this paper, we problematize simple conceptualizations of the negative impacts of poverty exposure by illustrating the dynamic patterns poverty displays across cities on a daily basis. The vast majority of prior research on poverty of place has relied upon data anchored to place of residence. Thus, poverty rates broadly reflect poverty as it exists at night. This bias toward nighttime statistics leaves us with an incomplete understanding of spatial inequalities because daytime poverty rates can differ markedly from nighttime poverty rates due to work‐related commuting patterns. Here, we use novel data from the Census Transportation Planning Products to fully illustrate diurnal patterns in poverty at the census tract level in metropolitan America. Through a combination of descriptive, spatial, and statistical analyses, we show that the majority of census tracts experience changes in poverty throughout the day. Through a series of regression models, we also show that diurnal patterns in poverty are unevenly distributed along the lines of suburbanization, race, economic status, age composition, and industrial structure. Overall, our findings provide analytic insights into properly documenting poverty across space, while further problematizing lingering culture of poverty frameworks.
Intentions and abilities to migrate from Africa to Europe
Authors: Schöfberger Irene , Acostamadiedo Eduardo , Rango Marzia
Published: April 2024

While migration from Africa to Europe is increasing, aspiring migrants from Africa are still less likely than those from other continents to migrate to their preferred destinations. An analysis of the reasons for this is needed. This paper investigates how individual‐level traits and country income levels influence intentions and abilities to migrate from Africa to Europe, while also exploring regional differences. It does so through an approach investigating the influence of both micro‐level factors and macro‐level factors, as well as their interactions. It first analyses migration intentions in 47 African countries in the Years 2010–2015, by investigating plans to migrate to Europe. It then analyses abilities to migrate from these countries to Europe in the Years 2011–2016, by exploring the proxy of the conversion of migration plans into flows. The analysis is based on Gallup World Poll, Eurostat, Organisation for Economic Co‐operation and Development, Frontex, and World Bank data and estimates. The paper finds that 1.4% of individuals in the African countries considered were planning to migrate to Europe in the Years 2010–2015, and an estimated 5.8% of these was able to migrate in 2011–2016. Migration intentions and abilities are shaped by a complex interplay of micro‐ and macro‐level factors. While some individual‐level traits have similar effects on migration intentions across country income levels, others increase the likelihood of planning to migrate to a stronger extent in countries of origin with higher income levels. Abilities to convert migration plans into actual migration, and to do so through regular channels, increase with higher country income levels. The influence of individual‐level traits and country income levels on migration intentions and abilities appears to vary across regions. Findings confirm the relevance of approaches investigating migration intentions and abilities by assessing both micro‐ and macro‐level factors, as well as their interactions. A more nuanced understanding of these interactions is crucial to inform migration policies that recognise the different needs and realities of aspiring migrants.
Migration distance from birthplace and its association with relative income and employment share among heterosexual couples in Switzerland
Authors: Viry Gil , Drevon Guillaume , Masse Florian , Gauthier Jacques‐Antoine , Kaufmann Vincent , Gumy Alexis
Published: April 2024

Among heterosexual couples, employment of the female partner may suffer from household migration often driven by the job of the male partner. Most research has traditionally focused on the distance moved after couple formation and has neglected how far partners live from their birthplaces. Recent life course research has shown that staying in, leaving or returning to the place of origin of one or both partners often reflects couples' work–family arrangements. This study contributes to this literature by examining the division of employment between partners and their relative contribution to household income according to migration distances. We analyse data from a national sample of economically active individuals living with heterosexual partners in Switzerland. When controlling for selectivity of migrant couples, the analysis confirms that long‐distance household migration benefits men's relative earnings. Among couples who migrated within the same region, employment is more equally shared between partners than among other couples, including nonmigrant couples. The relative distance to birthplaces also matters. Women's contribution to household income is higher among couples in which men migrated close to women's birthplace and is lower among couples where women migrated close to men's birthplace compared to women in other couples. This study suggests that future research on household migration should consider important social ties and places beyond the ‘last family move’ and the mechanisms by which these ties and places influence couples' decisions about where to live together and economic outcomes.