bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Motion‐sensitive cameras track population abundance changes in a boreal mammal community in southwestern Yukon, Canada
Authors: Kenney Alice J. , Boutin Stan , Jung Thomas S. , Murray Dennis L. , Johnson Nick , Krebs Charles J.
Published: February 2024

Motion‐sensitive cameras are commonly used to monitor wildlife occupancy rates; however, few studies have assessed whether data from cameras are correlated with density estimates obtained from more traditional labor‐intensive methods such as those based on capture‐mark‐recapture. We used data from a boreal forest community to test whether camera data were correlated with densities estimated from independent monitoring methods. We placed 72 covert cameras in the forest around Lhù'ààn Mân' (Kluane Lake), Yukon, Canada, for 7 years and tracked changes in population densities by camera hit rates. We independently estimated population densities of snowshoe hares (Lepus americanus) and red squirrels (Tamiasciurus hudsonicus) using capture‐mark‐recapture via live trapping, and Canada lynx (Lynx canadensis), coyotes (Canis latrans), and moose (Alces americanus) by snow track transects. Density estimates obtained from conventional aerial surveys were also periodically available for moose. Except for red squirrels, camera hit rates were highly correlated with population density estimates obtained by traditional methods, including across a large range of estimated densities corresponding to cyclic population dynamics in several species. Accordingly, we infer that motion‐sensitive cameras could supplement or replace traditional methods for monitoring key species in boreal forest food webs. Using cameras to monitor population change has several advantages; they require less effort in the field, are non‐invasive compared to live‐trapping, include multiple species at the same time, and rely less on weather than either aerial surveys or snow track transects. Tracking changes across the vast boreal forest is becoming increasingly necessary because of climate and landscape change and our data validate the use of motion‐sensitive cameras to provide a useful quantitative method for state‐of‐the‐environment reporting.
American woodcock migration phenology in eastern North America: implications for hunting season timing
Authors: Fish Alexander C. , Roth Amber M. , Balkcom Greg , Berigan Liam , Brunette Kylie , Clements Sarah , Costanzo Gary , Graham Clayton L. , Harvey William F. , Hook Michael , Howell Douglas L. , Maddox Seth , McWilliams Scott , Meyer Shawn W. , Nichols Theodore C. , Bruce Pollard J. , Roy Christian , Stiller Josh , Washington Dawn , Williams Lisa , Blomberg Erik J.
Published: February 2024

Understanding the phenology of migration is fundamental to management of migratory gamebirds, in part because of the role migratory timing plays in setting harvest regulations. Migratory timing is particularly important for determining appropriate dates for hunting seasons, which may be selected to coincide with major periods of migration, according to local management objectives. We used global positioning system (GPS)‐transmitters to track American woodcock (Scolopax minor), characterize the timing of woodcock migration, and identify sources of variation in timing relative to current hunting season structures in eastern North America. We captured 304 woodcock in 3 Canadian provinces and 12 states from 2017 to 2020, primarily within the Eastern Woodcock Management Region. Using locations collected every 1.7 days on average, we assessed whether initiation, termination, or stopover timing of woodcock migration during fall and early spring varied geographically, differed among age and sex classes, or was influenced by individual body condition. During fall, woodcock migrating from summer use areas farther north and west (e.g., Ontario, Quebec, Canada) initiated and terminated migration earlier than woodcock migrating from areas farther south and east (e.g., Rhode Island, USA). Adult woodcock made multiday stopovers that were 3 days longer on average than juveniles and females made more stopovers on average (8.0 stopovers) compared to males (6.1 stopovers). During the onset of spring migration, woodcock that wintered farther west initiated migration before birds that spent the winter farther east, and males initiated migration on average 6 days earlier than females. Under the current 45‐day harvest regulatory framework in the United States, hunting seasons in northern breeding and southern wintering areas are generally consistent with migration phenology. At more intermediate latitudes, however, periods of migration are generally longer than 45 days, resulting in many circumstances where migrating woodcock are present during periods when hunting seasons are closed. Managers in mid‐latitude states could consider opening hunting seasons later, allowing hunters to harvest more migrant woodcock.
Anterior pelvic tilt increases hamstring strain and is a key factor to target for injury prevention and rehabilitation
Authors: Mendiguchia Jurdan , Garrues Mirian Aranzazu , Schilders Ernest , Myer Gregory D. , Dalmau‐Pastor Miki
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Hamstring muscle strain injury is very common in sports involving high‐speed running. Hamstring muscles originate from the ischial tuberosity and thus pelvic position may influence hamstring strain during different sports movements like sprinting, but this has only been evaluated by indirect methods. This study tested the hypothesis that a change in anterior pelvic tilt causes elongation of the overall hamstring complex and disproportionately elongates proximal relative to distal muscle regions.

Methods

Seven fresh‐frozen specimens (full lower limb with pelvis and lumbar spine) were used for this in vitro study. Specimens were dissected to enable visualization of the hamstring muscles and then fixed into a custom‐made testing bench that allowed controlled movement of the pelvis over a fixed femur and tibia. Nine markers were inserted into the hamstring muscles to allow intra‐ and intermuscle difference measurements. Then, six different anterior pelvic angles were used to measure the difference in hamstring muscle lengthening through a three‐dimensional reconstruction system based on stereoscopic machine vision technology.

Results

An increase in anterior pelvic tilt produced a significant non‐uniform increase in tissue elongation in all regions of the three hamstring muscles (semitendinosus, semimembranosus [SMB] and biceps femoris long head), which was greater in the proximal (>1 cm every 5°) compared to the distal region (≈0.4 cm every 5°). At the proximal hamstring region, SMB showed significantly greater length changes compared to conjoint tendons with nonstatistically significant elongation differences between muscles at the distal region.

Conclusion

Considering the results of the study, the pelvis segment will likely play a fundamental role as a strain regulator of hamstring muscles. These results will have an impact on injury rehabilitation and prevention processes of hamstring injuries, as well as optimize future musculoskeletal models and avoid potential underestimation of the hamstring muscle‐tendon complex lengthening during high‐speed running.

Level of Evidence

N/A.
Viable cartilage allograft outperforms existing treatments for focal knee cartilage defects
Authors: Desai Bhumit , Assid Eric , Jacobs Graylin , Dasgupta Anouska , Williams Gerard , Choate Walter Stephen , Montgomery Scott , Godshaw Brian , Suri Misty , Jones Deryk
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Viable cartilage allograft (VCA) is a cartilage tissue matrix that contains cryopreserved viable allogeneic cartilage fibres. This study aimed to assess safety and benefits in treating focal knee cartilage defects with VCA. We hypothesized that VCA is a safe single‐stage procedure in isolated chondral defects.

Method

In vitro analysis, in vivo studies and a prospective case series were performed. VCA was evaluated in a goat cartilage repair model. Symptomatic International Cartilage Repair Society grade 3/4A lesions of the femoral condyle or patella were implanted with VCA. International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC), Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome (KOOS) subscales, Lysholm, Short Form‐12, Visual Analog Scale and pain frequency levels were assessed. Radiographic and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was performed at regular intervals postoperatively. Data were analysed by statisticians to determine the power and significance of the results.

Results

The goat study confirmed that VCA is effective for cartilage repair. Twenty patients were implanted; the mean age was 28.1 (16–56), the mean body mass index (BMI) was 27.9 ± 5.6 and the mean follow‐up was 24.1 months (range = 12.0–36.0 months). Lesions were in either the femoral condyle (7) or patella (13). Lesion sizes ranged from 1.5 to 6.0 cm2 (mean = 4.58 cm2). Outcome scores improved from preoperative baseline (POB): IKDC (78.2), Lysholm (89.0), KOOS: Pain (95.8), Symptoms (86.3), ADL (87.8), Sports (85.0) and QOL (75.0). MRI imaging demonstrated excellent osteochondral allograft assimilation. Second‐look arthroscopy (two patients) demonstrated complete fill and incorporation (Brittberg scores 11/12). Functional scores were maintained at 24 (M): IKDC (86.24 ± 17.2), Lysholm (87.23 ± 15.0), KOOS: Pain (91.72 ± 17.3), Symptoms (84.92 ± 16.1), ADLs (93.80 ± 16.1), Sports (84.45 ± 27.7), QOL (81.30 ± 20.8).

Conclusion

VCA is an off‐the‐shelf, single‐stage, conformable allogeneic graft that treats chondral defects with no additional fixation. Preclinical and short‐term prospective clinical studies show that VCA can safely treat chondral defects with potential advantages to existing options.

Level of Evidence

Level IV study.
Toward a synthesis of phytoplankton community composition methods for global‐scale application
Authors: Kramer Sasha J. , Bolaños Luis M. , Catlett Dylan , Chase Alison P. , Behrenfeld Michael J. , Boss Emmanuel S. , Crockford E. Taylor , Giovannoni Stephen J. , Graff Jason R. , Haëntjens Nils , Karp‐Boss Lee , Peacock Emily E. , Roesler Collin S. , Sosik Heidi M. , Siegel David A.
Published: February 2024

The composition of the marine phytoplankton community has been shown to impact many biogeochemical processes and marine ecosystem services. A variety of methods exist to characterize phytoplankton community composition (PCC), with varying degrees of taxonomic resolution. Accordingly, the resulting PCC determinations are dependent on the method used. Here, we use surface ocean samples collected in the North Atlantic and North Pacific Oceans to compare high‐performance liquid chromatography pigment‐based PCC to four other methods: quantitative cell imaging, flow cytometry, and 16S and 18S rRNA amplicon sequencing. These methods allow characterization of both prokaryotic and eukaryotic PCC across a wide range of size classes. PCC estimates of many taxa resolved at the class level (e.g., diatoms) show strong positive correlations across methods, while other groups (e.g., dinoflagellates) are not well captured by one or more methods. Since variations in phytoplankton pigment concentrations are related to changes in optical properties, this combined dataset expands the potential scope of ocean color remote sensing by associating PCC at the genus‐ and species‐level with group‐ or class‐level PCC from pigments. Quantifying the strengths and limitations of pigment‐based PCC methods compared to PCC assessments from amplicon sequencing, imaging, and cytometry methods is the first step toward the robust validation of remote sensing approaches to quantify PCC from space.
Interfacial Engineering of Selenium‐Based Photodiodes for Extremely Low‐Noise Photodetection and Single‐Pixel Imaging
Authors: Bai Songxue , Li Ruiming , Jia Zhenglin , Yu Bin , Yao Fang , Liu Yong , Liu Hailin , Wang Du , Lei Cheng , Wang Zhiping , Lin Qianqian
Published: February 2024

Selenium as one of the most historical semiconductors has been used for photovoltaics and photodetection, thanks to its excellent optoelectronic properties, superior stability, facile and low‐cost fabrication. However, commercialized Se‐based devices are mainly based on its amorphous state, which significantly limits the charge transport and requires relatively large bias voltage. The charge carrier dynamics of high‐performance crystalline Se thin films are barely reported, and related photodiodes have not been realized mainly limited by the large dark current and slow response speed. Here, poly‐crystalline Se thin films via vacuum evaporation, in situ thermal annealing, and engineered the interfaces with various metal electrodes are fabricated, which resulted in enhanced charge transport properties and reduced device leakage. The optimized Se photodiodes exhibited excellent performance metrics, including extremely low dark current density, decent specific detectivity, and superior stability. Furthermore, the optimized Se photodetectors are also introduced for single‐pixel imaging, which demonstrates excellent sensitivity and great potential for real applications.
Lung regeneration: diverse cell types and the therapeutic potential
Authors: Chen Yutian , Li Zhen , Ji Gaili , Wang Shaochi , Mo Chunheng , Ding Bi‐Sen
Published: February 2024

Lung tissue has a certain regenerative ability and triggers repair procedures after injury. Under controllable conditions, lung tissue can restore normal structure and function. Disruptions in this process can lead to respiratory system failure and even death, causing substantial medical burden. The main types of respiratory diseases are chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Multiple cells, such as lung epithelial cells, endothelial cells, fibroblasts, and immune cells, are involved in regulating the repair process after lung injury. Although the mechanism that regulates the process of lung repair has not been fully elucidated, clinical trials targeting different cells and signaling pathways have achieved some therapeutic effects in different respiratory diseases. In this review, we provide an overview of the cell type involved in the process of lung regeneration and repair, research models, and summarize molecular mechanisms involved in the regulation of lung regeneration and fibrosis. Moreover, we discuss the current clinical trials of stem cell therapy and pharmacological strategies for COPD, IPF, and ARDS treatment. This review provides a reference for further research on the molecular and cellular mechanisms of lung regeneration, drug development, and clinical trials.
GBA1 rs3115534 Is Associated with REM Sleep Behavior Disorder in Parkinson's Disease in Nigerians
Authors: Ojo Oluwadamilola Omolara , Bandres‐Ciga Sara , Makarious Mary B. , Crea Peter Wild , Hernandez Dena G. , Houlden Henry , Rizig Mie , Singleton Andrew B. , Noyce Alastair J. , Nalls Mike A. , Blauwendraat Cornelis , Okubadejo Njideka Ulunma ,   the Nigeria Parkinson's Disease Research Network and the Global Parkinson's Genetics Program (GP2)
Published: February 2024

Background

Rapid eye movement (REM) sleep behavior disorder (RBD) is an early feature of Parkinson's disease (PD) and dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB). Damaging coding variants in Glucocerebrosidase (GBA1) are a genetic risk factor for RBD. Recently, a population‐specific non‐coding risk variant (rs3115534) was found to be associated with PD risk and earlier onset in individuals of African ancestry.

Objectives

We aimed to investigate whether the GBA1 rs3115534 PD risk variant is associated with RBD in persons with PD.

Methods

We studied 709 persons with PD and 776 neurologically healthy controls from Nigeria. All DNA samples were genotyped and imputed, and the GBA1 rs3115534 risk variant was extracted. The RBD screening questionnaire (RBDSQ) was used to assess symptoms of possible RBD.

Results

RBD was present in 200 PD (28.2%) and 51 (6.6%) controls. We identified that the non‐coding GBA1 rs3115534 risk variant is associated with possible RBD in individuals of Nigerian origin (β, 0.3640; standard error [SE], 0.103, P = 4.093e−04), as well as in all samples after adjusting for PD status (β, 0.2542; SE, 0.108; P = 0.019) suggesting that although non‐coding, this variant may have the same downstream consequences as GBA1 coding variants.

Conclusions

Our results indicate that the non‐coding GBA1 rs3115534 risk variant is associated with an increasing number of RBD symptoms in persons with PD of Nigerian origin. Further research is needed to assess if this variant is also associated with polysomnography‐defined RBD and with RBD symptoms in DLB. © 2024 The Author(s). Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society. This article has been contributed to by U.S. Government employees and their work is in the public domain in the USA.
Aspartame Intake Delayed Puberty Onset in Female Offspring Rats and Girls
Authors: Lin Chia‐Yuan , Nguyen Nam Nhat , Tsai Wan‐Ling , Hsieh Rong‐Hong , Wu Hung‐Tsung , Chen Yang‐Ching
Published: February 2024

Scope

The disturbance of the hypothalamic–pituitary‐gonadal (HPG) axis, gut microbiota (GM) community, and short‐chain fatty acids (SCFAs) is a triggering factor for pubertal onset. The study investigates the effects of the long‐term intake of aspartame on puberty and GM in animals and humans.

Methods and results

Aspartame‐fed female offspring rats result in vaginal opening time prolongation, serum estrogen reduction, and serum luteinizing hormone elevation. , 60 mg kg−1aspartame treatment decreases the mRNA levels of gonadotropin‐releasing hormone (GnRH), Kiss1, and G protein‐coupled receptor 54 (GPR54), increases the mRNA level of RFamide‐related peptide‐3 (RFRP‐3), and decreases the expression of GnRH neurons in the hypothalamus. Significant differences in relative bacterial abundance at the genus levels and decreased fecal SCFA levels are noted by 60 mg kg−1aspartame treatment. Among which,Escherichia–Shigellais negatively correlated with several SCFAs. In girls, high‐dose aspartame consumption decreases the risk of precocious puberty.

Conclusions

Aspartame reduces the chance of puberty occurring earlier than usual in female offspring and girls. Particularly, 60 mg kg−1aspartame‐fed female offspring delays pubertal onset through the dysregulation of HPG axis and GM composition by inhibiting the Kiss1/GPR54 system and inducing the RFRP‐3. An acceptable dose of aspartame should be recommended during childhood.
Astragaloside IV Mitigated Diabetic Nephropathy by Restructuring Intestinal Microflora and Ferroptosis
Authors: Lyu Xin , Zhang Ting‐ting , Ye Zhen , Chen Ce
Published: February 2024

Scope

To investigate the underlying mechanism of Astragaloside IV (AS‐IV) in ameliorating diabetic nephropathy (DN) by regulating intestinal microbiota ecology and intestinal mucosal barrier.

Methods and results

Genetically db/db mice are used to establish DN mouse model to monitor the therapeutic effects of AS‐IV and fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) against DN. Supplementation with AS‐IV dramatically attenuates several clinical indicators of DN in db/db mice. In addition, AS‐IV markedly improves intestinal barrier function, modifies intestinal permeability, and reduces inflammation. Moreover, AS‐IV treatment remarkably improves intestinal dysbiosis in db/db mice, characterized by an elevated abundance of Akkermansia, Ligilactobacillus, and Lactobacillus, indicating the fundamental role of the microbiome in DN progression. Furthermore, FMT derived from AS‐IV‐treated db/db mice is potentially efficient in antagonizing renal dysfunction, rebalancing gut microbiota, and improving intestinal permeability in recipient db/db mice. AS‐IV‐enriched Akkermansia muciniphila dramatically alleviates DN and intestinal mucosal barrier dysfunction in db/db mice. Intriguingly, AS‐IV intervention dramatically diminishes ferroptosis in the kidney and colon tissues.

Conclusion 

Intestinal microbiome alterations and ferroptosis modulation by AS‐IV may play instrumental roles in this mechanism, providing compelling evidence for the role of the gut‐renal axis in DN.
Doppler effect‐based low‐Earth orbit satellite constellation parameters
Authors: Boumalek Kaouther , Aris Skander , Benslama Malek
Published: February 2024

The present study focuses on the manifestation of the Doppler effect in low‐Earth orbit (LEO) satellite constellations with laser inter‐satellite links (LISLs). In this letter, the LEO satellite constellation parameters that influence the variation of the Doppler effect in LISLs are presented. The LEO satellite constellation configurations that perform LISLs with less possible Doppler effect could be designed based on the tendency of the Doppler wavelength shift (DWS) as a function of the LEO satellite constellation's parameters. The paper presents the main LEO satellite constellation parameters that involve the variation of the Doppler effect, such as the altitude of the satellites, the orbital plane number within the constellation, and the inclination angle of the orbital plane. In addition to the operating laser wavelength that is employed as a data carrier. These parameters could be helpful to control the Doppler effect in LISL before building an LEO constellation.
What are patients' perspectives on the value of physical therapy? A prospective cohort study
Authors: Barrett Dustin R. , Nielsen Lauren M. , Rhon Daniel I. , Young Jodi L.
Published: February 2024

Purpose

To assess and identify patients' perceptions about the overall value of physical therapy services for musculoskeletal conditions and how these values were associated with their outcomes.

Methods

The association between the perceived value of physical therapy (as a score) and Patient‐Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) pain interference and physical function at 6‐weeks was assessed in a prospective cohort. Generalised linear models were used to identify relationships between the value of physical therapy score and PROMIS outcomes. Kendall's tau was used to identify correlations between responses and outcomes.

Results

A total of 133 participants met the final inclusion criteria. The majority of participants were female (63.9%) with a mean age of 55.53 (SD 15.36) years. A majority of participants (63.9%) reported a previous positive personal experience with physical therapy. There was no significant relationship between perceived value of physical therapy and pain interference (β −0.32, p = 0.07, 95% CI−0.67, 0.03) or physical function (β 0.19, p = 0.29, 95% CI−0.16, 0.54). Stronger beliefs in agreement with the value of non‐invasive treatment were significant, but weakly correlated with lower pain interference (r = −0.18, p = 0.048) and higher physical function scores (r = 0.22, p = 0.03).

Conclusions

Participants had an overall positive perception of the value of physical therapy prior to initiating physical therapy, but this perception was not associated with 6‐week pain and function outcomes. A better understanding of the driving factors encouraging patients to seek physical therapy services is needed to provide value‐based care.
Cellular and molecular characteristics of stromal Lkb1 deficiency‐induced gastrointestinal polyposis based on single‐cell RNA sequencing
Authors: Cai Zhaohua , Jiang Yangjing , Tong Huan , Liang Min , Huang Yijie , Fang Liang , Liang Feng , Hu Yunwen , Shi Xin , Wang Jian , Wang Zi , Ji Qingqi , Huo Huanhuan , Shen Linghong , He Ben
Published: February 2024

Liver kinase B1 (Lkb1), encoded by serine/threonine kinase (Stk11), is a serine/threonine kinase and tumor suppressor that is strongly implicated in Peutz–Jeghers syndrome (PJS). Numerous studies have shown that mesenchymal‐specific Lkb1 is sufficient for the development of PJS‐like polyps in mice. However, the cellular origin and components of these Lkb1‐associated polyps and underlying mechanisms remain elusive. In this study, we generated tamoxifen‐inducible Lkb1flox/flox;Myh11‐Cre/ERT2 and Lkb1flox/flox;PDGFRα‐Cre/ERT2 mice, performed single‐cell RNA sequencing (scRNA‐seq) and imaging‐based lineage tracing, and aimed to investigate the cellular complexity of gastrointestinal polyps associated with PJS. We found that Lkb1flox/+;Myh11‐Cre/ERT2 mice developed gastrointestinal polyps starting at 9 months after tamoxifen treatment. scRNA‐seq revealed aberrant stem cell‐like characteristics of epithelial cells from polyp tissues of Lkb1flox/+;Myh11‐Cre/ERT2 mice. The Lkb1‐associated polyps were further characterized by a branching smooth muscle core, abundant extracellular matrix deposition, and high immune cell infiltration. In addition, the Spp1–Cd44 or Spp1–Itga8/Itgb1 axes were identified as important interactions among epithelial, mesenchymal, and immune compartments in Lkb1‐associated polyps. These characteristics of gastrointestinal polyps were also demonstrated in another mouse model, tamoxifen‐inducible Lkb1flox/flox;PDGFRα‐Cre/ERT2 mice, which developed obvious gastrointestinal polyps as early as 2–3 months after tamoxifen treatment. Our findings further confirm the critical role of mesenchymal Lkb1/Stk11 in gastrointestinal polyposis and provide novel insight into the cellular complexity of Lkb1‐associated polyp biology. © 2024 The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
Study on mechanical properties of vacuum‐infused glass fiber reinforced thermoplastic methacrylic resin composites
Authors: Liu Xiaolei , Cao Yanxia , Zhang Chong , Zhou Lei , Gao Yafei , Wang Wanjie , Guan Hongtao , Mu Shuxiang , Zhang Jianmin
Published: February 2024

In recent years, the growing environmental awareness has prompted increased attention towards the substitution of nonrecyclable thermosetting epoxy resin composite materials with recyclable thermoplastic composite materials. The objective of this study is to utilize a laboratory‐made polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA)/methyl methacrylate (MMA) binary liquid resin (PMBLR) to prepare thermoplastic resin/glass fiber (GF) composite materials using the vacuum‐assisted perfusion method. These composites are then compared with GF‐reinforced thermosetting epoxy resin composites. The investigation reveals a significant influence of benzoyl peroxide (BPO) content on the mechanical properties of pure MMA and PMBLR casting resins, which also incorporate N‐methyl‐N‐((1‐methyl‐1H‐indol‐3‐yl) methyl) aniline (DMA) as redox composite initiators. The optimal mechanical properties for both types of casting resins are achieved at a DMA:BPO:MMA ratio of 0.5:1.2:100. Additionally, at a PMMA concentration of 24 wt% in PMBLR under this specific initiator ratio, the composites demonstrate the most desirable properties. Furthermore, a comparative analysis of PMBLR/GF composites and epoxy/GF composites indicates that the former exhibit superior 90° tensile strength, bending strength, and short beam shear strength. The fracture morphology analysis highlights discernible micro‐ductile fracture characteristics in PMBLR/GF composites, distinguishing them from epoxy/GF composites. Dynamic thermomechanical analysis (DMA) results further reveal a higher storage modulus and loss factor in PMBLR/GF composites when compared to epoxy/GF composites.

Highlights

Glass fiber‐reinforced composites were fabricated at ambient temperature.

A degradable PMMA/MMA binary thermoplastic resin (PMBLR) was developed as a replacement for non‐degradable epoxy.

PMBLR composites exhibit enhanced strength compared to epoxy: tensile (+18.8%), bending (+27.4%), and short beam shear (+34.3%).
Legacy effects of long‐term autumn leaf litter removal slow decomposition rates and reduce soil carbon in suburban yards
Authors: Ferlauto Max , Schmitt Lauren , Burghardt Karin
Published: February 2024

Societal Impact Statement

As cities grow, it is essential to understand how landscape management decisions in urban spaces alter ecosystem function. This study demonstrates that the ubiquitous practice of long‐term leaf litter removal in suburbs, even in relatively small patches of a yard, reduces the soil's ability to cycle nutrients in plant litter and results in lower amounts of carbon stored in the soil. Even two years of retaining leaves where they previously were removed is insufficient to restore decomposition rates or carbon pools. This research is an important step in creating best practices for litter management to maintain essential ecosystem functions, like carbon sequestration, water holding capacity, and soil fertility.

Seasonal senesced leaf litter removal eliminates considerable organic material from suburban soils annually. We test if this disturbance alters decomposition and carbon cycles and depletes soils of organic matter over time, creating persistent legacy effects.

We used a factorial experimental design to implement 1–2 years of current leaf litter manipulations (remove or retain fallen leaves) within historically raked and unraked areas in suburban Maryland yards. We then compared total organic soil carbon and decomposition using a standardized substrate decomposition methodology (Tea Bag Index) across treatment plots.

Long‐term litter removal in suburban yards reduced decomposition rates by 17% and total soil organic carbon concentration by up to 24% compared to areas where leaf litter was retained in situ. In contrast, short‐term management changes (1–2 years) did not significantly impact decomposition rates or total organic soil carbon concentrations.

Our findings suggest that long‐term suburban litter raking creates legacy effects that alter decomposition and carbon storage process trajectories that are not easily reversed. This is important in understanding urban ecosystem function and sustainable management.
Effects of succession crops and soil tillage on suppressing the syndrome ‘basses richesses’ vector Pentastiridius leporinus in sugar beet
Authors: Pfitzer René , Rostás Michael , Häußermann Patrick , Häuser Thilo , Rinklef André , Detring Justus , Schrameyer Klaus , Voegele Ralf T. , Maier Johann , Varrelmann Mark
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

Pentastiridius leporinus (Hemiptera: Cixiidae) is the most important vector of syndrome ‘basses richesses’ (SBR), a new disease that leads to severe economic losses in sugar beet. In this study, different soil tillage methods (ploughing and cultivator) and crops (winter wheat, spring wheat, maize and bare soil) following SBR‐infested sugar beet were tested as potential management options in field trials. In the laboratory, the survival and development of first and third instar nymphs on wheat and maize was studied to further assess their suitability as host plants.

RESULTS

In five out of seven field sites, reduced soil tillage had no effect on adult planthopper emergence compared to ploughing. In two sites, reduced tillage resulted in higher emergence rates. In nearly all field sites, up to 98.9% fewer emerging adults were detected in bare soil and maize, when compared to winter wheat. Under laboratory conditions, the lowest survival rate was found in first instar nymphs feeding on maize seedlings (4.2%), while 66.7% survived on wheat, over a period of 300 days. In contrast, 73.3% and 70% of third instar nymphs survived on wheat and maize over a period of 150 days.

CONCLUSION

Soil tillage had little effect against Pentastiridius leporinus. Maize is a poor host for first instars but a suitable resource for third instar nymphs, the stage which encounters maize under field conditions. Hence, reductions in planthopper emergence in the field were likely caused by starvation due to the long host‐free period between sugar beet harvest and the sowing of maize. © 2024 The Authors. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Colloidal‐Doped Semiconductor Nanocrystals Embedded in One‐Dimensional Photonic Crystals for Ultrafast Photonics
Authors: Kriegel Ilka , Scotognella Francesco
Published: February 2024

The optical properties of strongly doped semiconductor nanocrystals depend strongly on the carrier density of the nanocrystals. These characteristics can be exploited for the design of innovative optical devices based on ultrafast switching potentially in the THz modulation bandwidth. In this study, the optical response of one‐dimensional photonic crystals incorporating colloidal nanoparticles of a highly doped semiconductor such as indium tin oxide (ITO) is investigated, taking into consideration the angular dependence of the photonic band gap and the position dependence of the photonic band gap on the light‐induced tunability of the ITO doping.
Application of clustering strategy for automatic segmentation of tissue regions in mass spectrometry imaging
Authors: Xu Guang , Gan Shengfeng , Guo Bo , Yang Li
Published: February 2024

Rationale

Mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) has been widely used in biomedical research fields. Each pixel in MSI consists of a mass spectrum that reflects the molecule feature of the tissue spot. Because MSI contains high‐dimensional datasets, it is highly desired to develop computational methods for data mining and constructing tissue segmentation maps.

Methods

To visualize different tissue regions based on mass spectrum features and improve the efficiency in processing enormous data, we proposed a computational strategy that consists of four procedures including preprocessing, data reduction, clustering, and quantitative validation.

Results

In this study, we examined the combination of t‐distributed stochastic neighbor embedding (t‐SNE) and hierarchical clustering (HC) for MSI data analysis. Using publicly available MSI datasets, one dataset of mouse urinary bladder, and one dataset of human colorectal cancer, we demonstrated that the generated tissue segmentation maps from this combination were superior to other data reduction and clustering algorithms. Using the staining image as a reference, we assessed the performance of clustering algorithms with external and internal clustering validation measures, including purity, adjusted Rand index (ARI), Davies–Bouldin index (DBI), and spatial aggregation index (SAI). The result indicated that SAI delivered excellent performance for automatic segmentation of tissue regions in MSI.

Conclusions

We used a clustering algorithm to construct tissue automatic segmentation in MSI datasets. The performance was evaluated by comparing it with the stained image and calculating clustering validation indexes. The results indicated that SAI is important for automatic tissue segmentation in MSI, different from traditional clustering validation measures. Compared to the reports that used internal clustering validation measures such as DBI, our method offers more effective evaluation of clustering results for MSI segmentation. We envision that the proposed automatic image segmentation strategy can facilitate deep learning in molecular feature extraction and biomarker discovery for the biomedical applications of MSI.
Reconceptualizing Virtual Operations Support Teams (VOSTs) as an experiential learning tool for emergency management education
Authors: Silver Amber , Morgan Carey , Morrison Derek
Published: February 2024

Virtual Operations Support Teams (VOSTs) have proliferated across the United States and abroad as a means of addressing the informational needs of emergency management agencies. These groups of trusted agents act as “force multipliers” by monitoring social media to extract actionable information, including on‐the‐ground impacts, public sentiment, misinformation and gossip, and calls for assistance. However, while these teams have been credited as a resource‐efficient means of improving situational awareness, issues pertaining to recruitment and retention, trust, and legitimacy continue to be a challenge. This research utilizes a case study approach to examine how academic institutions might leverage VOSTs as a tool for emergency management education and in doing so, address some of the challenges outlined above. In this paper, we present the participation of a university‐affiliated VOST in two state‐level activations: the 2022 Texas wildfires and the 2022 NYC marathon. These case studies are then contextualized with the results of semistructured interviews conducted with emergency managers in both states. The results demonstrate that VOSTs facilitated through and supported by academic institutions can address many of the challenges outlined above, while also providing valuable experience for students. The paper concludes with a discussion on lessons learned and opportunities for future research.
Semiconducting Carbon Nanotubes with Light‐Driven Gating Behaviors in Phototransistor Memory Utilizing an N‐Type Conjugated Polymer Sorting
Authors: Tung Yi‐Hsuan , Su Shang‐Wen , Su En‐Jia , Jiang Guo‐Hao , Chen Chun‐Chi , Yu Sheng‐Sheng , Chiu Chi‐Cheng , Shih Chien‐Chung , Lin Yan‐Cheng
Published: February 2024

Semiconducting single‐walled carbon nanotubes (s‐SWNTs) have arisen a growing interest in field‐effect transistors (FETs) due to their advantages, such as lower fabrication temperature, flexibility, and solution processing applicability, compared to traditional silicon‐based FETs. In this study, diversifying the functionality of s‐SWNT‐based FETs is focused on, particularly emphasizing their use in nonvolatile photomemory applications. By selectively wrapping s‐SWNT with n‐type conjugated polymers (CPs), electron‐trapping and photoresponsive capabilities are endowed in the device. After optimizing the structure and aggregating behavior of n‐type CPs, a favorable supramolecular network comprising s‐SWNT and CPs is formed and applied in phototransistor memory. Accordingly, the device exhibits a high memory ratio and window of 105 and 75.7 V, representing its remarkable charge‐storage capabilities. In addition, the device demonstrates decent long‐term stability over 104 s and multilevel memory behavior driven by the varied gate bias or accumulated light‐gating periods. The proposed memory mechanism involves electrical writing and photoerasing processes with the existence of n‐type CPs on s‐SWNT, revealing the underlying principles of charge transfer between their heterojunction interfaces. Herein, this research contributes to developing advanced phototransistor memory, offering a promising avenue for future electronic applications.
Slot‐Die Deposition of CuSCN Using Asymmetric Alkyl Sulfides as Cosolvent for Low‐Cost and Fully Scalable Perovskite Solar Cell Fabrication
Authors: Zimmermann Iwan , Harada Nao , Guillemot Thomas , Aider Celia , Muhammed Salim Kunnummal Mangott , Nguyen Van Son , Castillon Jean , Provost Marion , Medjoubi Karim , Cacovich Stefania , Ory Daniel , Rousset Jean
Published: February 2024

The development of industrially relevant deposition processes for efficient, stable, and inexpensive charge extracting layers is crucial for the commercialization of perovskite solar cells (PSCs). This work demonstrates, for the first time, the deposition of copper thiocyanate (CuSCN) as a low‐cost and reliable hole‐transport layer using slot‐die coating. Methyl ethyl sulfide is thereby used as an asymmetric cosolvent to significantly increase the solubility of CuSCN in the utilized slot‐die ink compared to traditional pure diethyl sulfide‐based solutions. Optimized CuSCN inks allow for the deposition of CuSCN layers on 5 × 10 cm2 substrates with a wide range of thicknesses. Multidimensional imaging photoluminescence techniques are used to investigate the uniformity of the CuSCN thin films deposition as well as the influence of the solvent on charge losses. Finally, the CuSCN slot‐die deposition is integrated into a fully upscalable PSC fabrication process showing 19.1% power conversion efficiency for small laboratory cells and 14.7% for 9 cm2 minimodules. Furthermore, semitransparent minimodules retain 80% of their initial efficiency after 500 h of constant illumination.
Modal identification of non‐classically damped structures using generalized sparse component analysis
Authors: Yao Xiao‐Jun , Yi Ting‐Hua , Qu Chun‐Xu , Li Hong‐Nan
Published: February 2024

Modal identification method based on blind source separation (BSS) technique has gained extensive attentions for civil structures. Developing the complex modes estimation method is important in practical applications because the assumption of proportional damping is not always satisfied. Sparse component analysis (SCA) performs well in underdetermined BSS problems. However, SCA is confined to the situation of proportional damping. In this study, a generalized SCA method is proposed to extend the original SCA method to both real and complex modes identification. First, the general formulation of complex modes is extended by the analytic form to eliminate the complex conjugate part in the BSS model. A new single‐source‐point detection method that is available to handle real and complex modes is proposed. Local outlier factor method is adopted to remove the outliers in single source points. Subsequently, complex‐valued modal matrix is calculated by the clustering technique. Then, modal responses are recovered using the complex version of smoothed zero norm method, where modal frequencies and damping ratios can be extracted. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed method is demonstrated for identification of real and complex modes, close modes, and underdetermined problem. The application to a benchmark structure demonstrates the effectiveness for practical applications.
What affects the continued learning about energy? Evidence from a 4‐year longitudinal study
Authors: Kubsch Marcus
Published: February 2024

Energy is a central concept across the sciences and an important goal of science education is to support all students so that they develop a full understanding of the energy concept. However, given the abstract and complex nature of the energy concept, only a few students develop an understanding so that they can use energy ideas to make sense of phenomena. Research into energy learning progressions aims at developing models of learning about energy to guide instruction so that students can be best supported in developing competence and has provided a rich model of how students' understanding of energy develops over time. Being largely based on cross‐section data, however, the extent to which this model can guide instruction is limited, especially concerning the continued learning of students about energy. To address this gap—the limited evidence regarding what supports students' continued learning about energy—it was investigated how holding non‐normative ideas and the integratedness of students' energy knowledge affect students' continued learning about energy. Drawing on data from a 4‐year longitudinal study covering Grades 6–9 on students' learning about energy, diagnostic classification models were used to characterize students' non‐normative idea profiles and the integratedness of their knowledge and then related both to their continued learning. The results suggest no detrimental effects of holding non‐normative ideas and strong positive effects of holding integrated knowledge for students' continued learning about energy. Implications for teaching and future research are discussed.
A novel method for the remediation of o‐ and p‐aminophenol from industrial wastewater by hexacyanoferrate (III) ions using Ir‐complex catalyst
Authors: Goel Anjali , Rani Monika
Published: February 2024

In this manuscript o‐ and p‐aminophenols model environmental pollutants are being remedied by catalytic oxidation process. A kinetic‐spectrophotometric technique was used to study the remediation of o‐ and p‐aminophenol by hexacyanoferrate (III) ions as an oxidant and synthesized Ir‐DTPy complex as a catalyst in aqueous alkaline medium. The optimum pH for these experiments was 9.0 and 11.0 for o‐ and p‐aminophenol respectively at the constant temperature 25°C. It has been studied how variations in the concentration of the catalyst (Ir‐DTPy), the hexacyanoferrate (III) ions, and substrate affect the rate of the reaction. At four different temperatures, ranging from 25 to 40°C, the change in reaction rate has been analyzed with thermodynamic variables like free energy of activation, enthalpy, frequency factor, and activation energy. FTIR, UV‐Vis, and ESI‐MS spectroscopic analytical methods have been used to identify the oxidized products. 2‐aminophenoxazin‐3‐one and NN'‐bis‐(p‐hydroxyphenyl)‐2‐hydroxy‐5‐amino‐1, 4‐benzoquinone di‐imine are the main products of oxidation of o‐and p‐aminophenol, respectively. Therefore, this technique for removing o‐ and p‐aminophenol from contaminated water resources is very effective and environmentally safe.
LEAP-ASIA-2019: Summary of Centrifuge Experiments on Liquefaction-Induced Lateral Spreading – Application of the Generalized Scaling Law
Authors: Tobita Tetsuo , Ichii Koji , Ueda Kyohei , Uzuoka Ryosuke , Vargas Ruben R. , Okamura Mitsu , Sjafruddin Asri Nurani , Takemura Jiro , Hang Lyu , Iai Susumu , Boksmati Jad , Fusco Alessandro , Torres-Garcia Samy , Haigh Stuart , Madabhushi Gopal , Manzari Majid , Escoffier Sandra , Li Zheng , Kim Dong Soo , Manandhar Satish , Hung Wen-Yi , Huang Jun-Xue , Pham Truong-Nhat-Phuong , Zeghal Mourad , Abdoun Tarek , Korre Evangelia , Kutter Bruce L. , Carey Trevor J. , Stone Nicholas , Zhou Yan-Guo , Liu Kai , Ma Qiang
Published: February 2024

In the framework of Liquefaction Experiments and Analysis Projects (LEAP), round-robin centrifuge model tests were conducted in collaboration with ten international institutes on identical saturated sloping sand layers with a wide range of initial conditions. Two tests, one with a model following conventional centrifuge scaling law and the other with a model following the generalized scaling law (GSL), were assigned to each institute for two purposes: (1) validation of the generalized scaling law (GSL) and (2) development of additional experimental data sets to fill the gaps in the existing experimental data sets. The GSL may be validated when the ground deformation is small (less than 250 mm in the present study). The trend surface was updated with the new data sets, whose trend is consistent with the previous one.
LEAP-ASIA-2019 Centrifuge Test at NCU
Authors: Huang Jun-Xue , Hung Wen-Yi
Published: February 2024

Two centrifuge tests are performed at NCU under centrifugal acceleration field of 26g and 13g to validate the generalized scaling law for LEAP-ASIA-2019. The model arrangement and test process follow the specification of LEAP-UCD-2017. Both models are subjected one destructive motion which is 0.18g, 1 Hz, 16 cycles, tapered sine wave. Test results indicate the model adopted generalized scaling law with virtual 1g modeling factor of 2 can generally simulated the same prototype of the model only adopted centrifuge scaling law. The acceleration response, pore water pressure behavior, and cone tip resistance of both models are in good agreement with each other.
Centrifuge Model Tests at Zhejiang University for LEAP-ASIA-2019
Authors: Ma Qiang , Zhou Yan-Guo , Liu Kai , Chen Yun-Min
Published: February 2024

Two centrifuge models with the same target relative density (Dr = 65%) were conducted in different centrifugal acceleration (30 g for Model-A and 15 g for Model-B) at Zhejiang University (ZJU) to validate generalized scaling law in the program of LEAP-ASIA-2019. The same model used in LEAP-UCD-2017 was repeated, representing a 5-degree slope consisting of saturated Ottawa F-65 sand. This chapter describes test facilities, instrumentations layout, and test procedures. Uncertainty analysis is also carried out in input parameters (e.g., achieved peak ground acceleration, achieved density and the degree of saturation). The test results of acceleration, excess pore water pressures, and displacement etc. were compared at prototype scale to check the validity of the generalized scaling law (GSL). The preliminary experiment results of Zhejiang University show that the Type II generalized scaling law is applicable to the acceleration response while has a weak applicability to the displacement response.