bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An ethical framework for geophysical survey in historic Black cemeteries
Authors: Lowry Sarah
Published: March 2024

Historic Black cemeteries in the south‐eastern United States are actively threatened by development, neglect, environmental degradation and vandalism. Geophysical archaeological tools are often championed as a solution to document unmarked graves, determine cemetery boundaries and help preserve these spaces. This process can be problematic as geophysical instruments themselves do not find graves; rather, the data collected are reviewed by a skilled professional to interpret where graves might be present. Archaeological geophysical practitioners thus hold a great responsibility to conduct themselves in an ethical manner. Important considerations include archaeological ethics, professionalism and honest communication, as well as centring the needs of preservation within the communities of descendants and stakeholders, if possible, in the way we process, interpret and communicate results.
Exploring enigmas: Information seeking after exposure to virtual reality awe elicitors
Authors: Urban Alex , Bossaller Jenny Simpson
Published: March 2024

Because of awe's properties as a knowledge emotion, awe elicitors can increase awareness of knowledge gaps, boost scientific interest, and promote inquiry. However, the relationship between awe and exploratory behavior, such as information seeking, remains unclear. Using a multi‐method approach, this study asked how and to what extent awe fosters information seeking. This question was examined through a two‐pronged approach. First, in a laboratory setting, participants (n = 32) were exposed to a variety of awe elicitors through a virtual reality (VR) head‐mounted display. Participants' quantitative and qualitative responses were gathered immediately after exposure in the laboratory as well as 24 h later through questionnaires. Second, after establishing a stratified sample of participants who voluntarily conducted information seeking (n = 8), the study shifted to phenomenologically‐informed interviews. This study found that exposure to specific VR scenes piqued participants' curiosity, especially toward representations of phenomena with unknown or unexplained origins. However, self‐motivated exploration only occurred in limited circumstances, particularly toward awe elicitors tinged with supernatural causality. In sum, this study introduces a new research direction within information science, illustrates how understudied awe elicitors pique curiosity, and provides a nuanced, qualitative report on the phenomenon of technology‐induced awe.
Surface Nitriding Enables Improved Intercalation Pseudocapacitance of T−Nb2O5 for Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Fang Wei , Zhang Lingling , Yang Ming , Zhang Hongyuan , Wu Lina , Dong Enjie , Xiao Xiangjun , Zhang Yan , Lou Shuaifeng , Yin Geping
Published: March 2024

The low electrical conductivity limits the application of T−Nb2O5 as anode materials for practical applications. The large‐grain T−Nb2O5 nanowires with nitrogen doping are obtained by simple hydrothermal and annealing treatments. After nitriding with ammonia, an amorphous layer of NbON as an intermediate is formed and then the new crystalline NbN is generated with the deepening of the nitriding degree, causing homogeneous pores on the surface of the T−Nb2O5 and thus increasing the specific surface area. Meanwhile, the formation of the nitriding layer enhances the electrical conductivity, inducing a pseudo‐capacitance mechanism. Therefore, the N−T−Nb2O5 nanowire demonstrates superior electrochemical performance. Specifically, the 45N−T−Nb2O5 nanowires delivered a first reversible specific capacity of 238.33 mAh g−1 at 0.1 C, higher than of theoretical capacity (201.6 mAh g−1). However, the excessive nitride will be completely converted into NbN, reducing the initial lithium storage of the material due to the lack of a lithium storage site, which has not been previously discussed. Besides, at the high rate of 100 C, with the deepening of nitride degree of the T−Nb2O5, the higher the rate performance. Therefore, to find the balance between the high rate performance and the initial lithium storage amount, the nitride degree should be strictly controlled.
The quantum mechanics of skincare: A context for the biochemistry curriculum
Authors: McPherson Peter A. C. , Alphonso Lynsey , Johnston Ben M.
Published: March 2024

Designing a relevant and engaging curriculum for biochemistry undergraduates can be challenging for topics which are at the periphery of the subject. We have used the framework of context‐based learning as a means of assessing understanding of quantum theory in a group of students in their junior year. Our context, the role of retinol in skincare, provides a basis for the simple application of quantum mechanical principles to a biological context in an adaptation of the polyene in a box concept. As part of the learner journey, they gain experience of practical computational chemistry, which provided an in silico alternative to traditional laboratory work during the SARS‐CoV‐19 pandemic. Student feedback was overwhelmingly positive, and this approach is now firmly embedded in the undergraduate curriculum.
How consumers' economic and psychological vulnerabilities impact their consumption regulation during crisis
Authors: Karaosmanoglu Elif , Okan Mehmet , Işıksal Didem Gamze , Altinigne Nesenur , Demir Ozge , İdemen Elif
Published: March 2024

This paper focuses on the economic and psychological vulnerabilities that are intensified due to the effects of the COVID‐19 pandemic on individuals' health, education and living standards. The deteriorating mental and financial conditions of individuals, called psychological and economic vulnerability, have made an impact on consumers' consumption patterns and habits. This study has proposed that when consumer vulnerabilities increase, consumers will be more likely to express prosocial behaviours and assume higher social capital change that may influence their consumption regulations. The findings are based on a panel survey of 786 individuals via CATI in two waves of data collection in Türkiye (Wave I: 20 July–10 August 2020; Wave II: 20 November–10 December 2020). In Wave I, it is found that when individuals face economic and psychological vulnerability, their tendency to show prosocial behaviour is negatively affected. In Wave II, when the COVID‐19 cases peaked, while economic vulnerability still leads to lower prosocial behaviour, psychological vulnerability gets reversed and results in higher prosocial behaviour. Interestingly, in both waves, when consumers perceive positive social capital change due to increased prosocial behaviour, they are less likely to show consumption regulation.
An introduction to rural minority‐serving community colleges
Authors: Rockey Marci , Collins Jasmine D.
Published: March 2024

Racially minoritized communities in rural areas experience some of the most challenging conditions related to poverty, educational access, and educational attainment in the nation (Farrigan, 2021; Hillman, 2016). For residents in these communities, community colleges are the most common entry point into postsecondary education (Byun et al., 2017), yet little attention has been paid to the many two‐year institutions that are both rural and minority‐ serving. This chapter introduces the landscape of rural, minority‐serving community colleges (RMSCCs) and offers future directions for research and practice to bring more visibility to these essential institutions.
Legionella‐induced dysarthria and rhabdomyolysis with acute renal failure achieving recovery
Authors: El Sharu Husam , Ahmad Soban , Coore Hunter
Published: March 2024

Key Clinical Message

Legionnaires' disease, often presenting as pneumonia, can uncommonly manifest with extrapulmonary symptoms such as cerebellar involvement and rhabdomyolysis. This case emphasizes the successful resolution of dysarthria and renal dysfunction with prompt Legionella treatment, underscoring the importance of vigilance for diverse manifestations in Legionella infections.

Legionnaires' disease usually presents with pneumonia and a few extrapulmonary manifestations, such as neurological, musculoskeletal, and cutaneous manifestations. However, cerebellar involvement and rhabdomyolysis as an association with Legionella are not frequently encountered. We present a case of Legionella‐induced rhabdomyolysis requiring hemodialysis and dysarthria that resolved with Legionella treatment.
Explaining variability in early stages of [18F]‐flortaucipir tau‐PET binding: Focus on sex differences
Authors: Bachmann Dario , Buchmann Andreas , Studer Sandro , Saake Antje , Rauen Katrin , Gruber Esmeralda , Nitsch Roger M. , Hock Christoph , Gietl Anton , Treyer Valerie
Published: March 2024

INTRODUCTION

Female sex is associated with increased [18F]‐flortaucipir signal, which may be affected by amyloid pathology, age, and off‐target binding in skull and meninges.

METHODS

In this cross‐sectional study comprising 52 females and 52 matched males, we examined sex‐related differences in regional tau‐positron emission tomography (PET) with and without considering off‐target binding. We assessed the respective contributions of sex, age, amyloid‐PET burden, and off‐target binding to tau‐PET signal. We explored associations between age at menopause and hormone replacement therapy (HRT) use with regional tau‐PET signals.

RESULTS

Female sex was associated with increased regional tau both independently and interactively with amyloid, but amyloid‐independent associations were largely reduced when controlling for off‐target binding. Age but not age*sex interactions explained a small but significant amount of tau‐PET signal in temporoparietal regions. Considering the sample size and limited range of amyloid‐PET burden, no clear associations between regional tau‐PET signals and age at menopause or HRT use could be found.

DISCUSSION

Female sex is associated with increased [18F]‐flortaucipir signal mainly through its interaction with amyloid.
Detection of evolutionary conserved and accelerated genomic regions related to adaptation to thermal niches in Anolis lizards
Authors: Sakamoto Fuku , Kanamori Shunsuke , Díaz Luis M. , Cádiz Antonio , Ishii Yuu , Yamaguchi Katsushi , Shigenobu Shuji , Nakayama Takuro , Makino Takashi , Kawata Masakado
Published: March 2024

Understanding the genetic basis for adapting to thermal environments is important due to serious effects of global warming on ectothermic species. Various genes associated with thermal adaptation in lizards have been identified mainly focusing on changes in gene expression or the detection of positively selected genes using coding regions. Only a few comprehensive genome‐wide analyses have included noncoding regions. This study aimed to identify evolutionarily conserved and accelerated genomic regions using whole genomes of eight Anolis lizard species that have repeatedly adapted to similar thermal environments in multiple lineages. Evolutionarily conserved genomic regions were extracted as regions with overall sequence conservation (regions with fewer base substitutions) across all lineages compared with the neutral model. Genomic regions that underwent accelerated evolution in the lineage of interest were identified as those with more base substitutions in the target branch than in the entire background branch. Conserved elements across all branches were relatively abundant in “intergenic” genomic regions among noncoding regions. Accelerated regions (ARs) of each lineage contained a significantly greater proportion of noncoding RNA genes than the entire multiple alignment. Common genes containing ARs within 5 kb of their vicinity in lineages with similar thermal habitats were identified. Many genes associated with circadian rhythms and behavior were found in hot‐open and cool‐shaded habitat lineages. These genes might play a role in contributing to thermal adaptation and assist future studies examining the function of genes involved in thermal adaptation via genome editing.
Changes in right ventricular function and clinical outcomes following tricuspid transcatheter edge‐to‐edge repair
Authors: Tanaka Tetsu , Sugiura Atsushi , Kavsur Refik , Öztürk Can , Wilde Nihal , Zimmer Sebastian , Nickenig Georg , Weber Marcel , Vogelhuber Johanna
Published: March 2024

Aims

Prognostic impact of post‐procedural changes in right ventricular (RV) function after tricuspid transcatheter edge‐to‐edge repair (T‐TEER) is still unclear. We investigated association of RV function and its post‐procedural changes with clinical outcomes in patients undergoing T‐TEER.

Methods and results

We retrospectively analysed 204 patients who underwent T‐TEER and echocardiographic follow‐up at 3 months after T‐TEER. RV function was assessed by RV fractional area change (RVFAC), and RV dysfunction was defined as RVFAC <35%. Patients with an increase in RVFAC from baseline to the follow‐up were considered as RV responders. Patients were divided into four groups according to baseline RVFAC and the RV responder. The primary outcome was a composite of mortality and hospitalization due to heart failure within 1 year. Forty‐five of 204 patients (22.1%) had RVFAC <35% at baseline, and 71 (34.8%) were RV responders. The association between the RV responder and the composite outcome had a significant interaction with RVFAC at baseline. Among patients with baseline RVFAC <35%, RV responders had a lower risk of the composite outcome than RV non‐responders, while this association was not significant in those with baseline RVFAC ≥35%. Among patients with baseline RVFAC <35%, a smaller RV diameter and a greater reduction of tricuspid regurgitation were predictors for the RV responder.

Conclusion

Post‐procedural increase in RVFAC after T‐TEER is associated with improved outcomes in patients with RV dysfunction. The factors related to the increase in RVFAC may support patient selection for T‐TEER in patients with RV dysfunction.
Process Engineering Analysis of Transport Options for Green Hydrogen and Green Hydrogen Derivatives
Authors: Staudt Christiane , Hofsäß Clemens , von Lewinski Benedikt , Mörs Friedemann , Prabhakaran Praseeth , Bajohr Siegfried , Graf Frank , Kolb Thomas
Published: March 2024

The transition of the German economy and energy system toward CO2 neutrality requires large quantities of climate‐friendly chemical energy carriers, such as green hydrogen, to be imported. The decision on the most favorable import routes must consider its energy efficiency. To respect the remaining CO2 budget to achieve the 1.5° climate target, the implementation time and therefore additional evaluation criteria must be taken into account. In this article, as a first step, the energy utilization rate () for different hydrogen import options is evaluated. Starting off from hydrogen at 25 °C and 25 bar produced in the exporting country, liquid hydrogen, ammonia, liquid methane (Green LNG), methanol, and liquid organic hydrogen carrier are considered as chemical energy carries. Liquid hydrogen is in future the most efficient import option ( = 73%) when gaseous hydrogen is supplied in the importing country. When direct utilization of the H2 derivatives is considered, the ammonia import route has the highest energy utilization rate with 77%. If point sources for CO2 are considered, direct utilization of methanol ( = 83%) and Green LNG ( = 76%) are energetically favorable import options. Additional significant criteria for a technological assessment are maturity of technologies, available capacities, infrastructures, and production processes.
Disciplining growth‐at‐risk models with survey of professional forecasters and Bayesian quantile regression
Authors: Szabo Milan
Published: March 2024

This study presents a novel and fully probabilistic approach for combining model‐based forecasts with surveys or other judgmental forecasts. In our method, survey forecasts are integrated as penalty terms for the model parameters, facilitating a probabilistic exploration of additional insights obtained from surveys. We apply this approach to estimate a growth‐at‐risk model for real GDP growth in the United States. The results reveal that this additional shrinkage significantly improves prediction performance, with the information from surveys even exerting an influence on the lower tails of the distribution.
Curcumin mitigates acrylamide‐induced ovarian antioxidant disruption and apoptosis in female Balb/c mice: A comprehensive study on gene and protein expressions
Authors: Alaee Sanaz , Khodabandeh Zahra , Dara Mahintaj , Hosseini Elham , Sharma Mona
Published: March 2024

Curcumin is known for its antioxidant properties. This study aimed to investigate the impact of curcumin on acrylamide (ACR)‐induced alterations in the first‐line antioxidant defense of ovarian tissue. Female Balb/c mice were divided into control, ACR (50 mg/kg), ACR/CUR100 (received Acr + curcumin100 mg/kg), and ACR/CUR200 (Acr + curcumin 200 mg/kg) groups, and received oral treatments for 35 days. Evaluation of antioxidant enzyme expression (Sod, Cat, Gpx genes), pro‐apoptotic gene expressions (Bax, Caspase 3), and anti‐apoptotic gene expression (Bcl2l1) at mRNA and protein levels was done. Percentage of apoptotic cells using Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) assay was performed. The model group (ACR) showed decreased mRNA expression of Sod, Cat, and Gpx genes compared with the control group. Treatment with two different doses of curcumin (CUR100 and CUR200) significantly increased Sod, Cat, and Gpx gene expression, with CUR200 demonstrating significant recovery. SOD, CAT, and GPX protein levels were similar to mRNA expression trends, significantly increased with curcumin administration. Acrylamide exposure significantly increased Bax and Caspase 3 expression and decreased Bcl2l1 gene expression leading to a notable rise in apoptosis in ACR group as compared to the control group. Conversely, curcumin administration, significantly reduced Bax and Caspase 3 expressions, with an increase in Bcl2l1expression, though not statistically significant. TUNEL assay revealed a substantial decrease in apoptosis in curcumin‐received groups. In our study, ACR exposure adversely affected ovarian antioxidant defense thereby leading to increased pro‐apoptotic markers. Notably, curcumin treatment effectively mitigated these effects, restored antioxidant potential, and reduced acrylamide‐induced toxicity in female mouse ovaries.
Influence of geographical location on the distribution of heavy metals in dairy cattle feeds sourced from two South African provinces
Authors: Adelusi Oluwasola Abayomi , Oladeji Oluwaseun Mary , Gbashi Sefater , Njobeh Patrick Berka
Published: March 2024

The contamination of feed and food by heavy metals represents a significant concern for the health of both animals and humans. This study investigates the impact of geographical location on heavy metal distribution in dairy cattle feeds sourced from Free State and Limpopo, South Africa (SA). A total of 70 feed samples (40 from Free State and 30 from Limpopo) were collected from 2018 to 2019 and analyzed for heavy metals, including cadmium (Cd), arsenic (As), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), lead (Pb), and chromium (Cr), using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP‐MS). Our findings revealed the presence of Cr, Cu, and Zn in the feeds, but at levels below the FAO/WHO permissible limits. Additionally, As, Cd, and Pb concentrations in the feeds were below the Limit of Detections (LODs). Generally, Cr concentrations (0.032–0.454 mg/kg) identified in the Free State samples were lower than those found in Limpopo (0.038–1.459 mg/kg), while the levels of Cu (0.092–4.898 mg/kg) and Zn (0.39–13.871 mg/kg) recorded in the Free State samples were higher than those from Limpopo [(0.126–3.467 mg/kg) and (0.244–13.767 mg/kg), respectively]. According to independent sample t‐tests, Cu and Zn levels were substantially higher (p ≤ .05) in Free State feeds compared to Limpopo, while Limpopo feeds exhibited significantly higher (p ≤ .05) Cr concentrations than Free State feeds. Despite the low recorded heavy metal levels, regular monitoring of these elements in cow diets across all SA provinces is essential for ensuring the well‐being of animals and humans.
The effect of nano/microparticles of bee pollen on the shelf life of high‐fat cooked sausage during refrigerated storage
Authors: Mashhadi Zahra , Davati Nafiseh , Emamifar Aryou , Karami Mostafa
Published: March 2024

Sausage is susceptible to oxidative changes in lipids and microbial spoilage due to the presence of water, fat, protein, and vitamins. Bee pollen (BP) as a source of potential antioxidants and antibacterial compounds can effectively prevent lipid peroxidation and microbial spoilage in meat products. The aim of the present study was to investigate the antibacterial and antioxidant activities of BP and the effects of nano/microparticles of bee pollen extract (n/m BP) at a concentration of 125 and 250 mg/100 g meat on the oxidative stability and microbial growth of high‐fat sausage during 30 days of storage at 4°C. The formation of BP particles in the nano/micro range was confirmed by scanning electron microscopy. High concentrations of total phenolic compounds (28.26 ± 0.10 mg GAE/g BP) with antioxidant activity (EC50 = 5.4 ± 0.07 mg/mL) were detected in BP. Based on the microdilution assay, the minimum inhibitory concentration of n/m BP for all test bacteria was 1000 (μg/mL) and the minimum bactericidal concentration of n/m BP was 2000 (μg/mL) for Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus cereus and 4000 (μg/mL) for Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The n/m BP treatment (250 mg/100 g meat) showed a higher pH value (p < .05) and lower TBARS values (p < .05) than the ascorbic acid treatment (100 mg/100 g meat) and the control during the storage period. The microbial analysis showed that the addition of n/m BP led to a significant decrease (p < .05) in the total bacterial count, coliforms, S. aureus, and fungal population compared to the other samples. The results show that the addition of n/m BP (125 mg/100 g) can improve the texture, taste, and overall acceptability of the sausage compared to the control sample. In conclusion, this study suggests that BP can replace synthetic antioxidants in high‐fat sausages at the nano/microparticle level.
Public health priorities for the Gulf states
Authors: Alfawaz Rasha , Alhumud Raghad , Amato‐Gauci Andrew Joseph , Penttinen Pasi
Published: March 2024

The newly established Gulf Center for Disease Prevention and Control (Gulf CDC) has to identify priorities to tackle in the first 2 years of operation. A rapid situational assessment involving a selected sample of national stakeholders, an objective study of the strengths and gaps in the national public health programmes and a study estimating the burden of the main disease/risk factors were carried out. The findings of an objective ranking survey, followed by consensus discussion in an in‐person meeting for senior Gulf states' experts, were combined with the evidence available from the previous three studies to result in a short list of the most pressing priority topics for the Gulf CDC to tackle. Both communicable (lead priorities: antimicrobial resistance and immunisation) and non‐communicable diseases (leads: cardiovascular disease, then cancer, diabetes, and mental health) are the consensus priorities. Also, the risks associated with non‐communicable diseases (high BMI, blood sugar, high blood pressure) and unhealthy lifestyle (poor diet, low physical activity and tobacco use) were also highlighted as top priorities to tackle.
Using equivalence tests in higher tier studies of honey bees under the revised EFSA Bee Guidance—How?
Authors: Hotopp Ines , Russ Anja , Alkassab Abdulrahim , Pistorius Jens , Prados Elena A. , Persigehl Markus
Published: March 2024

The proposed use of equivalence tests instead of difference tests in the revised guidance on the risk assessment of plant protection products for bees is a reasonable approach given an adverse effect was observed in the lower tier studies, using the hypothesis that there is a risk as the null hypothesis places the burden to prove the opposite on the other side. However, some uncertainties regarding the application of equivalence tests in field studies are discussed in the present study. Here, we compare equivalence and difference testing methods using a control dataset of a honey bee field effect study conducted in northern Germany in 2014. Half of the 48 colonies were assigned to a hypothetical test item group, and the colony strength data were analyzed using t-tests, a generalized linear mixed model (GLMM), and the corresponding equivalence tests. The data reflected the natural variability of honey bee colonies, with initially approximately 12 000 adult bees. Although the t-test and GLMM confirmed that 24 + 24 colonies are sufficient to show “no adverse effect,” the equivalence tests of the t-test and GLMM were not able to reject the null hypothesis and classified at least some of the assessments as “high risk,” indicating a power that was too low. Based on this, different operating options to reduce the variability are discussed. One possible option, which may provide a more realistic application of equivalence to avoid false high risk, is to consider the lower confidence interval of the control as a baseline and use GLMMs. With this option, we demonstrate a relatively acceptable probability to prove that no high risk for initially similar groups can be achieved. Further studies with different numbers of colonies are still needed to develop and validate the suggested approach. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2024;20:1496–1503. © 2024 SETAC

Key Points

The new, recently published European Food Safety Authority guidance on risk assessments of bees requires that honey bee field study data are analyzed using equivalence testing rather than difference testing as in the previous guidance. Applying the equivalence test on control data of a large honey bee field study revealed that a “high risk” could not be rejected in many assessments despite no underlying true effect due to the large variability in field data. Using the lower confidence limit of the control group as the baseline for the calculation of the threshold of the acceptable effect and conducting the equivalence test based on generalized linear mixed models provide a more realistic application to avoid false positive results.
Trends in management and outcomes of colon cancer in the United States over 15 years: Analysis of the National Cancer Database
Authors: Horesh Nir , Emile Sameh Hany , Garoufalia Zoe , Gefen Rachel , Zhou Peige , Wexner Steven D.
Published: March 2024

Management of colon cancer has changed over the last few decades. We assessed the trends in management and outcomes using the US National Cancer Database (NCDB). A retrospective analysis of all patients with colonic adenocarcinoma between 2005 and 2019 was conducted. The cohort was divided into three equal time periods: Period 1 (2005–2009), Period 2 (2010–2014), and Period 3 (2015–2019) to examine treatment and outcomes trends. The primary outcome was 5‐year overall survival (OS). The study included 923,275 patients. A significant increase in patients with stage IV disease was noted in Period 3 compared to Period 1 (47.9% vs. 27.9%, respectively), whereas a reciprocal reduction was seen in patients with locally advanced disease (stage II: 20.8%–12%; stage III: 14.5%–7.7%). Use of immunotherapy significantly increased from 0.3% to 7.6%. Mean 5‐year OS increased (43.6 vs. 42.1 months) despite the increase in metastatic disease and longer time from diagnosis to definitive surgery (7 vs. 14 days). A reduction in 30‐day readmission (5.1%–4.2%), 30‐ (3.9%–2.8%), and 90‐day mortality (7.1%–5%) was seen. Laparoscopic and robotic surgery increased from 45.8% to 53.1% and 2.9% to 12.7%, respectively. Median postoperative length of hospital stay decreased by 2 days. Rate of positive resection margins (7.2%–6%) and median number of examined lymph nodes (14–16) also improved. Minimally invasive surgery and immunotherapy for colon cancer significantly increased in recent years. Patient outcomes including OS improved over time.
Transmittance contrast‐induced photocurrent: A general strategy for self‐powered photodetectors based on MXene electrodes
Authors: Ma Hailong , Fang Huajing , Li Jiaqi , Li Ziqing , Fang Xiaosheng , Wang Hong
Published: March 2024

The regulation of carrier generation and transport by Schottky junctions enables effective optoelectronic conversion in optoelectronic devices. A simple and general strategy to spontaneously generate photocurrent is of great significance for self‐powered photodetectors but is still being pursued. Here, we propose that a photocurrent can be induced at zero bias by the transmittance contrast of MXene electrodes in MXene/semiconductor Schottky junctions. Two MXene electrodes with a large transmittance contrast (84%) between the thin and thick zones were deposited on the surface of a semiconductor wafer using a simple and robust solution route. Kelvin probe force microscopy tests indicated that the photocurrent at zero bias could be attributed to asymmetric carrier generation and transport between the two Schottky junctions under illumination. As a demonstration, the MXene/GaN ultraviolet (UV) photodetector exhibits excellent performance superior to its counterpart without transmittance contrast, including high responsivity (81 mA W–1), fast response speed (less than 31 and 29 ms) and ultrahigh on/off ratio (1.33 × 106), and good UV imaging capability. Furthermore, this strategy has proven to be universal for first‐ to third‐generation semiconductors such as Si and GaAs. These results provide a facile and cost‐effective route for high‐performance self‐powered photodetectors and demonstrate the versatile and promising applications of MXene electrodes in optoelectronics.

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Solidarity, agency, and learning in everyday participation: A look at an adult education program in the context of COVID‐19
Authors: Kalman Judy , Lorenzatti María del Carmen
Published: March 2024

The outbreak of the COVID‐19 pandemic on the world stage has impacted multiple aspects of our lives, affecting how we interact, organize public affairs, and carry out daily activities. This paper explores how students in an ongoing adult education program in Villa María, Argentina, continued their studies during the 2020–2022 pandemic in the context of the restrictive public health policies that led to suspending in‐person classes and collaborative sessions and moving to digitally mediated formats. It centers on the experience of adult learners confronted by the COVID‐19 emergency and their response through solidarity relationships and agency. We found that the students actively reorganized and redesigned their academic practices by articulating their emergency needs resulting from the pandemic with their continued participation in their program through acts of solidarity. Finally, we share thoughts and future directions about solidarity in adult learning contexts.
Spatial mapping of corneal biomechanical properties using wave‐based optical coherence elastography
Authors: Wang Qingying , Chen Yulei , Shen Kexin , Zhou Xingyu , Shen Meixiao , Lu Fan , Zhu Dexi
Published: March 2024

Quantifying the mechanical properties of the cornea can provide valuable insights into the occurrence and progression of keratoconus, as well as the effectiveness of corneal crosslinking surgery. This study presents a non‐contact and non‐invasive wave‐based optical coherence elastography system that utilizes air‐pulse stimulation to create a two‐dimensional map of corneal elasticity. Homogeneous and dual concentration phantoms were measured with the sampling of 25 × 25 points over a 6.6 × 6.6 mm2 area, to verify the measurement capability for elastic mapping and the spatial resolution (0.91 mm). The velocity of elastic waves distribution of porcine corneas before and after corneal crosslinking surgery were further mapped, showing a significant change in biomechanics in crosslinked region. This system features non‐invasiveness and high resolution, holding great potential for application in ophthalmic clinics.
Tempol alleviates acute lung injury by affecting glutathione synthesis through Nrf2 and inhibiting ferroptosis in lung epithelial cells
Authors: Ai Li , Li Ran , Wang Xiaona , Liu Zhijuan , Li Yongxia
Published: March 2024

As a life‐threatening disease, acute lung injury (ALI) may progress to chronic pulmonary fibrosis. For the treatment of lung injury, Tempol is a superoxide dismutase mimetic and intracellular redox agent that can be a potential drug. This study investigated the regulatory mechanism of Tempol in the treatment of ALI. A mouse model of ALI was established, and HE staining was used to examine histomorphology. The CCK‐8 assay was used to measure cell viability, and oxidative stress was assessed by corresponding kits. Flow cytometry and dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate staining assays were used to detect reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels. Protein expression levels were measured by Western blot analysis and ELISA. Pulmonary vascular permeability was used to measure the lung wet/dry weight ratio. The level of oxidative stress was increased in ALI mice, and the level of ferroptosis was upregulated. Tempol inhibited this effect and alleviated ALI. The administration of Tempol alleviated the pathological changes in ALI, inhibited pulmonary vascular permeability, and improved lung injury in ALI mice. The upregulation of genes essential for glutathione (GSH) metabolism induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) was inhibited by Tempol. In addition, nuclear factor‐related factor 2 (Nrf2) is activated by Tempol therapy to regulate the de novo synthesis pathway of GSH, thereby alleviating LPS‐induced lung epithelial cell damage. The results showed that Tempol alleviated ALI by activating the Nrf2 pathway to inhibit oxidative stress and ferroptosis in lung epithelial cells. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that Tempol alleviates ALI by inhibiting ferroptosis in lung epithelial cells through the effect of Nrf2 on GSH synthesis.
Using the Sysmex UF‐4000 urine flow cytometer for rapid diagnosis of urinary tract infection in the clinical microbiological laboratory
Authors: Korsten Koos , de Gier Astrid , Leenders Alexander , Wever Peter C. , Kolwijck Eva
Published: March 2024

Background

Urinary tract infections are responsible for a significant worldwide disease burden. Performing urine culture is time consuming and labor intensive. Urine flow cytometry might provide a quick and reliable method to screen for urinary tract infection.

Methods

We analyzed routinely collected urine samples received between 2020 and 2022 from both inpatients and outpatients. The UF‐4000 urine flow cytometer was implemented with an optimal threshold for positivity of ≥100 bacteria/μL. We thereafter validated the prognostic value to detect the presence of urinary tract infection (UTI) based on bacterial (BACT), leukocyte (WBC), and yeast‐like cell (YLC) counts combined with the bacterial morphology (UF gram‐flag).

Results

In the first phase, in 2019, the UF‐4000 was implemented using 970 urine samples. In the second phase, between 2020 and 2022, the validation was performed in 42,958 midstream urine samples. The UF‐4000 screen resulted in a 37% (n = 15,895) decrease in performed urine cultures. Uropathogens were identified in 18,673 (69%) positively flagged urine samples. BACT > 10.000/μL combined with a gram‐negative flag had a >90% positive predictive value for the presence of gram‐negative uropathogens. The absence of gram‐positive flag or YLC had high negative predictive values (99% and >99%, respectively) and are, therefore, best used to rule out the presence of gram‐positive bacteria or yeast. WBC counts did not add to the prediction of uropathogens.

Conclusion

Implementation of the UF‐4000 in routine practice decreased the number of cultured urine samples by 37%. Bacterial cell counts were highly predictive for the presence of UTI, especially when combined with the presence of a gram‐negative flag.
Recent advances in carbon quantum dots for gene delivery: A comprehensive review
Authors: Othman Hazha Omar , Anwer Esra Tariq , Ali Diyar Salahuddin , Hassan Rebwar Omar , Mahmood Elnaz Ehsan , Ahmed Rayan Abubakir , Muhammad Rozhan Fathulla , Smaoui Slim
Published: March 2024

Gene therapy is a revolutionary technology in healthcare that provides novel therapeutic options and has immense potential in addressing genetic illnesses, malignancies, and viral infections. Nevertheless, other obstacles still need to be addressed regarding safety, ethical implications, and technological enhancement. Nanotechnology and gene therapy fields have shown significant promise in transforming medical treatments by improving accuracy, effectiveness, and personalization. This review assesses the possible uses of gene therapy, its obstacles, and future research areas, specifically emphasizing the creative combination of gene therapy and nanotechnology. Nanotechnology is essential for gene delivery as it allows for the development of nano‐scale carriers, such as carbon quantum dots (CQDs), which may effectively transport therapeutic genes into specific cells. CQDs exhibit distinctive physicochemical characteristics such as small size, excellent stability, and minimal toxicity, which render them highly favorable for gene therapy applications. The objective of this study is to review and describe the current advancements in the utilization of CQDs for gene delivery. Additionally, it intends to assess existing research, explore novel applications, and identify future opportunities and obstacles. This study offers a thorough summary of the current state and future possibilities of using CQDs for gene delivery. Combining recent research findings highlights the potential of CQDs to revolutionize gene therapy and its delivery methods.
Phase behavior of lyotropic alkyl thioglycolipid surfactants: Effects of sugar headgroup and alkyl tail length
Authors: Kegel Laurel L. , Wang Yu‐Cheng , Szabó Lajos Z. , Polt Robin , Pemberton Jeanne E.
Published: March 2024

The lyotropic properties of alkyl thioglycosides with varying sugar headgroup (lactose, cellobiose, maltose, galactose, or glucose) and alkyl chain length (octyl, decyl, or dodecyl chains) are investigated by surface tensiometry, visual observation, and fluorescence spectroscopy. The results substantiate that the glycosidic S‐linkage confers considerably different solution aggregation behavior on these surfactants relative to their O‐linked counterparts, where the properties of the latter are known. The materials properties of the aggregated structures from the alkyl thioglycosides vary considerably. Micelles are formed by octyl thiocellobioside and all alkyl thiomaltosides. Turbid aggregate solutions are formed by the alkyl thioglucosides and octyl thiogalactoside, whereas the longer chain alkyl thiogalactosides are minimally soluble. Fluorescence spectroscopy of these systems confirms their aggregation in lamellar‐like structures. The alkyl thiocellobiosides and alkyl thiolactosides form hydrogels from these low‐molecular weight materials at concentrations almost an order of magnitude lower than gels using other low‐molecular weight materials. Here, hydrogels form at concentrations <0.3 wt% with some forming hydrogels at concentrations as low as 0.03 wt% from alkyl thiocellobiosides and thiolactosides, with hydrogel properties differing significantly with this slight change in the sugar headgroup. Alkyl thiocellobiosides form a nanofiber network and alkyl thiolactosides form globular hydrogels. Overall, these results clearly document materials properties that can readily be controlled and designed depending on molecular structure.
Emotional reactivity linking assaultive trauma and risky behavior: Evidence of differences between cisgender women and men
Authors: Stumps Anna , Bounoua Nadia , Sadeh Naomi
Published: March 2024

Accumulating evidence suggests that trauma exposure is positively associated with future engagement in risky behavior, such as substance misuse, aggression, risky sex, and self‐harm. However, the psychological factors driving this association and their relevance across gender groups require further clarification. In a community sample of 375 adults with a high rate of trauma exposure (age range: 18–55 years, M = 32.98 years, SD = 10.64; 76.3% assaultive trauma exposure), we examined whether emotional reactivity linked lifetime assaultive trauma exposure with past–month risky behavior. We also explored whether this model differed for cisgender women (n = 178, 47.6%) and men (n = 197, 52.5%). As hypothesized, assaultive trauma was positively related to emotional reactivity, β = .20, SE = 0.03, t(369) = 3.65, p < .001, which, in turn, partially accounted for the association between assaultive trauma and past‐month risky behavior, indirect effect: β = .03, SE = 0.01, 95% bootstrapped CI [0.01, 0.06]. Gender moderated this association such that assaultive trauma was indirectly associated with risky behavior via emotional reactivity for women but not for men, index moderation: B = ‐0.03, SE = 0.02, 95% bootstrapped CI [‐0.07, ‐0.01]. Cross‐sectional results suggest that emotional reactivity may be a proximal target for clinical intervention to aid in the reduction of risky behavior among women.
The effect of different surface treatments of 310S austenitic stainless steel on the corrosion behavior in supercritical water using slow positron methods
Authors: Song Yamin , Krsjak Vladimir , Slugen Vladimir , Novotny Radek , Sojak Stanislav , Novak Michal , Dekan Julius , Cao Xingzhong , Degmova Jarmila
Published: March 2024

The corrosion behavior of 310S austenitic stainless steel, subjected to different surface treatments machined (MA), sandblasting (SB), and polishing (PO), was exposed to a 550°C supercritical water (SCW) environment. The aged samples were analyzed using variable‐energy slow positron beam techniques. The obtained results revealed that the plastic deformation of the near‐surface region of the MA and SB samples was substantially recovered in the SCW conditions. At least two distinct oxide layers formed, and the oxidation process created a Fe/Cr depletion zone in the inner layer. Various surface treatments, however, led to different corrosion profiles. The depth profile of slow positron beam characterization suggests that significant residual stress and deformation zones on the surfaces of the sandblasted samples probably provided a diffusion path for the oxidation of the 310S. Only the SB samples exhibited a negative weight change after SCW exposure. At the same time, the SB samples showed the highest concentration of the positron traps in this region, which was explained by open‐volume defects associated with the microcracks introduced by sandblasting.
Cortical Macro‐ and Microstructural Changes in Parkinson's Disease with Probable Rapid Eye Movement Sleep Behavior Disorder
Authors: Pardo Jèssica , Montal Victor , Campabadal Anna , Oltra Javier , Uribe Carme , Roura Ignacio , Bargalló Núria , Martí Maria J. , Compta Yaroslau , Iranzo Alex , Fortea Juan , Junqué Carme , Segura Bàrbara
Published: March 2024

Background

Evidence regarding cortical atrophy patterns in Parkinson's disease (PD) with probable rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder (RBD) (PD‐pRBD) remains scarce. Cortical mean diffusivity (cMD), as a novel imaging biomarker highly sensitive to detecting cortical microstructural changes in different neurodegenerative diseases, has not been investigated in PD‐pRBD yet.

Objectives

The aim was to investigate cMD as a sensitive measure to identify subtle cortical microstructural changes in PD‐pRBD and its relationship with cortical thickness (CTh).

Methods

Twenty‐two PD‐pRBD, 31 PD without probable RBD (PD‐nonpRBD), and 28 healthy controls (HC) were assessed using 3D T1‐weighted and diffusion‐weighted magnetic resonance imaging on a 3‐T scanner and neuropsychological testing. Measures of cortical brain changes were obtained through cMD and CTh. Two‐class group comparisons of a general linear model were performed (P < 0.05). Cohen's d effect size for both approaches was computed.

Results

PD‐pRBD patients showed higher cMD than PD‐nonpRBD patients in the left superior temporal, superior frontal, and precentral gyri, precuneus cortex, as well as in the right middle frontal and postcentral gyri and paracentral lobule (d > 0.8), whereas CTh did not detect significant differences. PD‐pRBD patients also showed increased bilateral posterior cMD in comparison with HCs (d > 0.8). These results partially overlapped with CTh results (0.5 < d < 0.8). PD‐nonpRBD patients showed no differences in cMD when compared with HCs but showed cortical thinning in the left fusiform gyrus and lateral occipital cortex bilaterally (d > 0.5).

Conclusions

cMD may be more sensitive than CTh displaying significant cortico‐structural differences between PD subgroups, indicating this imaging biomarker's utility in studying early cortical changes in PD. © 2024 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Adaptive finite element methods for scalar double‐well problem
Authors: Li Bingzhen , Liu Dongjie
Published: March 2024

Some scalar double‐well problems eventually lead to a degenerate convex minimization problem with unique stress. We consider the adaptive conforming and nonconforming finite element methods for the scalar double‐well problem with the reliable a posteriori error analysis. A number of experiments confirm the effective decay rates of the methods.
2D/0D multiscale interfacial engineering of carbon fiber composites for simultaneous achieving high mechanical and electromagnetic interference shielding properties
Authors: Guo Zongwei , Liu Lin , Ao Yuhui
Published: March 2024

In the face of escalating electromagnetic pollution, it is urgently needed to expedite the development of innovative carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) composites that not only demonstrate superior mechanical properties as well as durability but also boast exceptional electromagnetic interference shielding (EMI) performance. However, given the absence of robust interface interactions and the lack of an outstanding nanostructured conductive network, there remains a need to further elevate the overall performance of CFRP composites. Herein, a highly continuous conductive network by integrating 2D MXene and 0D Ag nanoparticles with strong interlayer interactions was constructed through point‐to‐plane conductive modes, facilitated by polydopamine (PDA). Thanks to the excellent electromagnetic wave loss and the unique multi‐dimensional structure arising from the optimizing interfacial engineering, the EMI shielding effectiveness of the modified CF‐PDA‐M‐Ag/EP composite achieved a remarkable 45.9 dB, obtaining a 99.5% enhancement compared with the neat CF/EP. The synergistic effect resulting from the multi‐dimensional structure and strong interaction can improve the interfacial shear strength (IFSS), interlaminar shear strength (ILSS) and flexure strength of the composite up to 81.9, 85.8 and 864.6 MPa, respectively, far superior to the unmodified composite materials. This research provides a dependable and convenient approach for exploiting high‐performance CFRP composites with intriguing electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding properties.

Highlights

An optimizing multifunctional 2D/0D interface for carbon fiber was designed.

A highly conductive network via the point‐to‐plane conductive mode.

The EMI shielding effectiveness of the composite reached up to 45.9 dB.