bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the Global Structure of Special Cycles on Unitary Shimura Varieties
Authors: Vandenbergen Nicolas
Published: March 2013

In this paper, we study the reduced loci of special cycles on local models of the Shimura variety for GU(1; n − 1). Those special cycles are defined by Kudla and Rapoport. We explicitly compute the irreducible components of the reduced locus of a single special cycle, as well as of an arbitrary intersection of special cycles, and their intersection behaviour in terms of Bruhat–Tits theory. Furthermore, as an application of our results, we prove the connectedness of arbitrary intersections of special cycles, as conjectured by Kudla and Rapoport.
Periodicities of T-systems and Y-systems, Dilogarithm Identities, and Cluster Algebras II: Types $C_r$, $F_4$, and $G_2$
Authors: Inoue Rei , Iyama Osamu , Keller Bernhard , Kuniba Atsuo , Nakanishi Tomoki
Published: March 2013

We prove the periodicities of the restricted T-systems and Y-systems associated with the quantum affine algebra of type

C_r

,

F_4

, and

G_2

at any level. We also prove the dilogarithm identities for these Y-systems at any level. Our proof is based on the tropical Y-systems and the categorification of the cluster algebra associated with any skew-symmetric matrix by Plamondon.
The Hadamard Product in the Space of Lorch Analytic Mappings
Authors: Moraes Luiza A. , Pereira Alex F.
Published: March 2013

For a complex Banach algebra

E

, let

{\mathrm{H}}_L(E)

be the space of the mappings from

E

into

E

that are analytic in the sense of Lorch, endowed with the Hadamard product and with the topology

\tau_b

of uniform convergence on the bounded subsets of

E

. We study topological and algebraic properties of

{\mathrm{H}}_L(E)

in connection with the topological and algebraic properties of the underlying space

E

. We also study algebraic and topological properties of the space of the sequences

(a_n)_n \subset E

such that

\underset{n\to\infty}{\lim}\Vert a_n\Vert^\frac{1}{n}=0.
Register, Cap and Trade: A Proposal for Containing Systemic Liquidity Risk
Authors: Milne Alistair
Published: March 2013

A fundamental cause of the global financial crisis was excessive maturity mismatch, notably shadow banking holdings of sub-prime MBS and other structured credit instruments and crossborder Euro area interbank lending to the uncompetitive Euro area periphery. The costs of short term funding do not fully reflect underlying asset risks and this created systemic liquidity and credit risks. This externality can be controlled through the issue of tradable licenses for short term funding. This is a simpler and more efficient way of addressing systemic liquidity risk than the controls on individual institutions proposed by international regulators.
Online multistep-ahead inundation depth forecasts by recurrent NARX networks
Authors: Shen H.-Y. , Chang L.-C.
Published: March 2013

Abstract. Various types of artificial neural networks (ANNs) have been successfully applied in hydrological fields, but relatively scant on multistep-ahead flood inundation forecasting, which is very difficult to achieve, especially when dealing with forecasts without regular observed data. This study proposes a recurrent configuration of nonlinear autoregressive with exogenous inputs (NARX) network, called R-NARX, to forecast multistep-ahead inundation depths in an inundation area. The proposed R-NARX is constructed based on the recurrent neural network (RNN), which is commonly used for modeling nonlinear dynamical systems. The models were trained and tested based on a large number of inundation data generated by a well validated two-dimensional simulation model at thirteen inundation-prone sites in Yilan County, Taiwan. We demonstrate that the R-NARX model can effectively inhibit error growth and accumulation when being applied to online multistep-ahead inundation forecasts over a long lasting forecast period. For comparison, a feedforward time-delay and an online feedback configuration of NARX networks (T-NARX and O-NARX) were performed. The results show that (1) T-NARX networks cannot make online forecasts due to unavailable inputs in the constructed networks even though they provide the best performances for reference only; and (2) R-NARX networks consistently outperform O-NARX networks and can be adequately applied to online multistep-ahead forecasts of inundation depths in the study area during typhoon events.
Impact of climate change and anthropogenic activities on stream flow and sediment discharge in the Wei River basin, China
Authors: Gao P. , Geissen V. , Ritsema C. J. , Mu X.-M. , Wang F.
Published: March 2013

Abstract. Reduced stream flow and increased sediment discharge are a major concern in the Yellow River basin of China, which supplies water for agriculture, industry and the growing populations located along the river. Similar concerns exist in the Wei River basin, which is the largest tributary of the Yellow River basin and comprises the highly eroded Loess Plateau. Better understanding of the drivers of stream flow and sediment discharge dynamics in the Wei River basin is needed for development of effective management strategies for the region and entire Yellow River basin. In this regard we analysed long-term trends for water and sediment discharge during the flood season in the Wei River basin, China. Stream flow and sediment discharge data for 1932 to 2008 from existing hydrological stations located in two subcatchments and at two points in the Wei River were analysed. Precipitation and air temperature data were analysed from corresponding meteorological stations. We identified change-points or transition years for the trends by the Pettitt method and, using double mass curves, we diagnosed whether they were caused by precipitation changes, human intervention, or both. We found significant decreasing trends for stream flow and sediment discharge during the flood season in both subcatchments and in the Wei River itself. Change-point analyses further revealed that transition years existed and that rapid decline in stream flow began in 1968 (P < 0.01), and that sediment discharge began in 1981 (P < 0.01) in the main river. In the two subcatchments, the transition years were 1985 (P < 0.01) and 1994 (P < 0.05) for water discharge, and 1978 and 1979 for sediment discharge (P < 0.05), respectively. The impact of precipitation or human activity on the reduction amount after the transition years was estimated by double mass curves of precipitation vs. stream flow (sediment). For reductions in stream flow and sediment discharge, the contribution rate of human activity was found to be 82.80 and 95.56%, respectively, and was significantly stronger than the contribution rate of precipitation. This evidence clearly suggests that, in the absence of significant decreases in precipitation, strategies for managing the region need to focus on human activities to control erosion without restricting stream flow.
Mobile Livestock Keeping and Climate Change Challenges in Africa
Authors: Anya Magnus I. , Ayuk Ausaji A. , Umoren Etido P. , Lifu Emmanuel O.
Published: March 2013

Livestock farming is one of the most important subsectors of the agricultural economy of developing nations. In Africa, mobile livestock keeping (MLK), or pastoralism, is crucial for rural livelihoods and food security, especially in the arid zones of the continent. With rapid urbanization and population growth, the demand for livestock products far outstrips supply. Climate change will exacerbate the situation because it will affect livestock production systems, and vice versa. This paper reviews the complex interaction between MLK and climate change, and proposes strategies to help sustain MLK as a key feature of rural livelihoods in Africa.
Expectations of Agricultural Extension Programmes among Local Agents and International Support Personnel in South-Eastern Afghanistan
Authors: Groninger John W. , Pense Seburn L.
Published: March 2013

Insecure rural regions, where local government and international agriculture development personnel are targeted by insurgents, are a growing threat to world security. This study evaluates agricultural outreach programmes in the Khost, Paktika and Paktya provinces of Afghanistan, a region characterized by limited functionality of government and traditional agricultural institutions, along with ongoing insurgency. International personnel either hired Afghan agricultural agents directly or, where applicable, supported local government personnel. Afghan agricultural agents used training and outreach techniques that circumvented location-specific barriers to security and accessibility, assessed agricultural community needs and lobbied international personnel in response to farmer requests. During interviews, international personnel emphasized training and institution building, while Afghan agents focused on material and infrastructure needs. Poor security limited communication between stakeholders and decision makers, and differences in perceived development objectives among Afghan agents and international personnel challenged programmatic success. The study concludes that these challenges should be taken into account when planning similar programmes wherever systematic violence threatens traditional agricultural development.
Exploring Organic Cherry Investment Opportunities for Greek Farmers
Authors: Tzouramani Irene , Liontakis Aggelos , Sintori Alexandra , Alexopoulos George
Published: March 2013

Organic farming has grown rapidly in the European Union (EU) due to a rising demand for high-quality food, increased environmental concerns and market developments that led to the implementation of an organic policy and the creation of a positive institutional framework. Nevertheless, the production of organic fruit, including cherries, is still limited within the EU, despite high demand. Farmers generally adopt organic farming systems only if the support provided by the existing policy regime outweighs the increased risk and uncertainty. This study explores the effectiveness of current policy measures for the production of organic cherries in Greece using a real options methodology. The results reveal that the economic incentives provided by the existing policy regime contribute to profitability and compensate for the risk and uncertainty that organic cherry farmers face, although further institutional support is still needed.
Using Potential Performance Theory to Analyze Systematic and Random Factors in Enumeration Tasks
Authors: Hunt Gayle , Rice Stephen , Trafimow David , Sandry Joshua
Published: March 2013

Prior research has shown that as the number of items being enumerated increases, performance decreases, especially when the amount of time is limited. Researchers studying nonverbal enumeration have found that random noise increases as a function of the number of items presented. Over a series of 2 experiments, the authors used potential performance theory to expand these findings and discover precisely how much random noise actually influences observed performance and what performance might look like in the absence of random factors. Participants briefly viewed a visual stimulus comprising a set of 4 to 9 dots presented horizontally (Experiment 1) or randomly (Experiment 2) on a computer monitor. Findings from both experiments indicate that the decrease in performance for larger set sizes resulted almost entirely from a reduction in consistency (or an increase in random noise), whereas potential performance remained fairly constant until the maximum set size.
Temporal- and Stimulus-Based Constraints to Interactive Activation During Visual Word Recognition in Adult Readers
Authors: Reimer Jason F. , Lorsbach Thomas C. , Bleakney Dana M. , Mckinney Scott P.
Published: March 2013

In models of visual word recognition that incorporate an interactive activation framework, activation spreads from orthographic and phonological units to semantic units and from semantic units back to phonological and orthographic units. The present research examined whether semantic feedback changes over the time course of lexical processing and as a function of stimulus quality. Using a mediated priming paradigm, prime–target word pairs were associatively related (frog–toad), homophonically mediated (frog–towed), or orthographically mediated (frog–told). Evidence of semantic feedback to both orthography and phonology was found when the prime duration was 146 ms (Experiment 1) and only to phonology when the prime duration was 253 ms (Experiment 2a). However, when the prime duration was 253 ms and target words were degraded (Experiment 2b), feedback spread only to orthography. The results suggest that the dynamics of semantic feedback change as the function of processing demands in the visual word recognition system.
Business strategies, profitability and efficiency of production
Authors: Alarcón S. , Sánchez M.
Published: March 2013

The strategy choices of market-oriented companies are a topic now under wide investigation in the analysis of business performance antecedents. The purpose of this study is to examine the outcomes of the combination of three different organizational strategies (market orientation, innovativeness and entrepreneurial orientation) on business performance indicators. Models using profitability and efficiency indicators are proposed with the specific aim of obtaining a deeper analysis of the relative roles played by each. The empirical work takes place in the agro-food industry in the Ebro Valley, one of Spain’s most competitive regions. The estimates from profitability quantile and truncated regressions of the efficiency scores reveal that market orientation has a positive effect on economic and productivity performance. The impact of pro-active, innovation-seeking, and risk-averse entrepreneurship is nevertheless more debatable, despite some influence of these entrepreneurial styles on observed performance values. This enables conclusions regarding the possibility of combining a market-oriented business culture with innovation and entrepreneurial activity with a view to obtaining business performance gains.
Harnessing Agricultural Potentials for Economic Growth in North Carolina
Authors: Herath Janaranjana , Hill David
Published: March 2013

Agriculture in North Carolina contributes to 19 percent of the state’s income and employs over 20 percent of the work force. Agricultural activities are significant in rural counties and nearly 30 percent of the total population of North Carolina lives in 85 rural counties. Individuals in these rural counties have less income, education, and employment opportunities eventually in high poverty and unemployment rates. The objective of this study is to examine the potential use of agriculture in economic growth of North Carolina using county level data. Data were gathered from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and U.S. Census Bureau for the period of 2000 to 2010. A system of simultaneous equations is used for the analysis. Results highlight that increasing income increases agricultural activities and vise versa. Thus, the counties with high household income levels are more capable of incorporating agriculture in economic growth while the counties with significant agricultural activities are more competent of improving income levels. Overall, results conclude the importance of secured satisfactory level of income through agriculture to enhance economic growth.
Equivalence Relations across the Secondary School Curriculum
Authors: Berger Lisa
Published: March 2013

An analysis of problems from state assessments and other sources helps preservice teachers discover analogous mathematical representations.
Truth & Beauty: Mathematics in Literature
Authors: Cohen Marion D.
Published: March 2013

Studying mathematics-related fiction and poetry helps students develop an appreciation for both mathematics and literature and an understanding of the connection between the two.
Activities for Students: Classifying Triangles and Quadrilaterals
Authors: Alonso Orlando B. , Malkevitch Joseph
Published: March 2013

The classification of shapes in middle and high school geometry often seems very mysterious to students, featuring strange terms such as isosceles, trapezoids, and kites, which are defined by a mixture of parallelism and metric ideas. The activities introduce a more natural way to classify triangles and quadrilaterals.
Delving Deeper: Rolling the Dice
Authors: Baker Jonathan D.
Published: March 2013

The outcome distribution for rolling a single die is horizontal; for rolling a pair of dice it is a triangle. What happens when more than two dice are rolled? What happens when the die has other than six sides? These and other questions are answered in an accessible and useful treatise.
The Back Page: My Favorite Lesson: A Quarter on Trial
Authors: Kolpas Sidney J.
Published: March 2013

My favorite lesson introduces what is arguably one of the most important topics in introductory statistics-hypothesis testing. This lowcost lesson includes a beneficial review of binomial probabilities.
Palette of Problems
Authors: Rock David , Amidon Joel
Published: March 2013

A monthly set of problems is aimed at a variety of ability levels.
Public Health Impact of Legal Termination of Pregnancy in the US: 40 Years Later
Authors: Thorp John M.
Published: March 2013

During the 40 years since the US Supreme Court decision in Doe versus Wade and Doe versus Bolton, restrictions on termination of pregnancy (TOP) were overturned nationwide. The use of TOP was much wider than predicted and a substantial fraction of reproductive age women in the U.S. have had one or more TOPs and that widespread uptake makes the downstream impact of any possible harms have broad public health implications. While short-term harms do not appear to be excessive, from a public perspective longer term harm is conceiving, and clearly more study of particular relevance concerns the associations of TOP with subsequent preterm birth and mental health problems. Clearly more research is needed to quantify the magnitude of risk and accurately inform women with the crisis of unintended pregnancy considering TOP. The current US data-gathering mechanisms are inadequate for this important task.
Preoperative vs Postoperative Opioid Prescriptions and Prolonged Opioid Refills Among US Youths
Authors: Sutherland Tori N. , Rabbitts Jennifer A. , Tasian Gregory E. , Neuman Mark D. , Newcomb Craig , Hadland Scott E.
Published: July 2024

Importance

High-risk practices, including dispensing an opioid prescription before surgery when not recommended, remain poorly characterized among US youths and may contribute to new persistent opioid use.

Objective

To characterize changes in preoperative, postoperative, and refill opioid prescriptions up to 180 days after surgery.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This retrospective cohort study was performed using national claims data to determine opioid prescribing practices among a cohort of opioid-naive youths aged 11 to 20 years undergoing 22 inpatient and outpatient surgical procedures between 2015 and 2020. Statistical analysis was performed from June 2023 to April 2024.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome was the percentage of initial opioid prescriptions filled up to 14 days prior to vs 7 days after a procedure. Secondary outcomes included the likelihood of a refill up to 180 days after surgery, including refills at 91 to 180 days, as a proxy for new persistent opioid use, and the opioid quantity dispensed in the initial and refill prescriptions in morphine milligram equivalents (MME). Exposures included patient and prescriber characteristics. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to estimate the association between prescription timing and prolonged refills.

Results

Among 100 026 opioid-naive youths (median [IQR] age, 16.0 [14.0-18.0] years) undergoing a surgical procedure, 46 951 (46.9%) filled an initial prescription, of which 7587 (16.2%) were dispensed 1 to 14 days before surgery. The mean quantity dispensed was 227 (95% CI, 225-229) MME; 6467 youths (13.8%) filled a second prescription (mean MME, 239 [95% CI, 231-246]) up to 30 days after surgery, and 1216 (3.0%) refilled a prescription 91 to 180 days after surgery. Preoperative prescriptions, increasing age, and procedures not typically associated with severe pain were most strongly associated with new persistent opioid use.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this retrospective study of youths undergoing surgical procedures, of which, many are typically not painful enough to require opioid use, opioid dispensing declined, but approximately 1 in 6 prescriptions were filled before surgery, and 1 in 33 adolescents filled prescriptions 91 to 180 days after surgery, consistent with new persistent opioid use. These findings should be addressed by policymakers and communicated by professional societies to clinicians who prescribe opioids.
Development of Chronic Pain Conditions Among Women in the Military Health System
Authors: Schoenfeld Andrew J. , Cirillo Madison N. , Gong Jonathan , Bryan Matthew R. , Banaag Amanda , Weissman Joel S. , Koehlmoos Tracey P.
Published: July 2024

Importance

The incidence of chronic pain has been increasing over the last decades and may be associated with the stress of deployment in active-duty servicewomen (ADSW) as well as women civilian dependents whose spouse or partner served on active duty.

Objective

To assess incidence of chronic pain among active-duty servicewomen and women civilian dependents with service during 2006 to 2013 compared with incidence among like individuals at a time of reduced combat exposure and deployment intensity (2014-2020).

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cohort study used claims data from the Military Health System data repository to identify ADSW and dependents who were diagnosed with chronic pain. The incidence of chronic pain among individuals associated with service during 2006 to 2013 was compared with 2014 to 2020 incidence. Data were analyzed from September 2023 to April 2024.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome was the diagnosis of chronic pain. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to adjust for confounding, and secondary analyses were performed to account for interactions between time period and proxies for socioeconomic status and combat exposure.

Results

A total of 3 473 401 individuals (median [IQR] age, 29.0 [22.0-46.0] years) were included, with 644 478 ADSW (18.6%). Compared with ADSW in 2014 to 2020, ADSW in 2006 to 2013 had significantly increased odds of chronic pain (odds ratio [OR], 1.53; 95% CI, 1.48-1.58). The odds of chronic pain among dependents in 2006 to 2013 was also significantly higher compared with dependents from 2014 to 2020 (OR, 1.96; 95% CI, 1.93-1.99). The proxy for socioeconomic status was significantly associated with an increased odds of chronic pain (2006-2013 junior enlisted ADSWs: OR, 1.95; 95% CI, 1.83-2.09; 2006-2013 junior enlisted dependents: OR, 3.05; 95% CI, 2.87-3.25).

Conclusions and Relevance

This cohort study found significant increases in the diagnosis of chronic pain among ADSW and civilian dependents affiliated with the military during a period of heightened deployment intensity (2006-2013). The effects of disparate support structures, coping strategies, stress regulation, and exposure to military sexual trauma may apply to both women veterans and civilian dependents.
Ductile P‐Type AgCu(Se,S,Te) Thermoelectric Materials
Authors: Shen Kelin , Yang Qingyu , Qiu Pengfei , Zhou Zhengyang , Yang Shiqi , Wei Tian‐Ran , Shi Xun
Published: July 2024

Ductile inorganic thermoelectric (TE) materials open a new approach to develop high‐performance flexible TE devices. N‐type Ag2(S,Se,Te) and p‐type AgCu(Se,S,Te) pseudoternary solid solutions are two typical categories of ductile inorganic TE materials reported so far. Comparing with the Ag2(S,Se,Te) pseudoternary solid solutions, the phase composition, crystal structure, and physical properties of AgCu(Se,S,Te) pseudoternary solid solutions are more complex, but their relationships are still ambiguous now. In this work, via systematically investigating the phase composition, crystal structure, mechanical, and TE properties of about 60 AgCu(Se,S,Te) pseudoternary solid solutions, the comprehensive composition–structure–property phase diagrams of the AgCuSe‐AgCuS‐AgCuTe pseudoternary system is constructed. By mapping the complex phases, the “ductile‐brittle” and “n‐p” transition boundaries are determined and the composition ranges with high TE performance and inherent ductility are illustrated. On this basis, high performance p‐type ductile TE materials are obtained, with a maximum zT of 0.81 at 340 K. Finally, flexible in‐plane TE devices are prepared by using the AgCu(Se,S,Te)‐based ductile TE materials, showing high output performance that is superior to those of organic and inorganic–organic hybrid flexible devices.
Quantum Dots Photoresist for Direct Photolithography Patterning
Authors: Gao Zhiyuan , Shi Jianbing , Yang Gaoling
Published: July 2024

Quantum dots (QDs) have become the most valuable luminescent materials due to their excellent optical properties, such as high color purity, high photoluminescence quantum yield (PLQY), and tunable luminescence spectra. QDs‐based display devices have been used commercially and have shown outstanding advantages such as wide color gamut, high brightness, etc. However, for high‐end displays such as micro‐light‐emitting diodes (Micro‐LED), fine precise patterning of QDs is still a prerequisite and key challenge. Recently, direct photolithography, a method based on photochemical reactions of QDs photoresist (QDPR), has been considered as the most potential patterning technology to achieve high resolution and high‐throughput. This review focuses on the recent progress of QDPR from the point of view of different photochemical reaction mechanisms: starting the monomer polymerization, followed by the ligand crosslinking or decomposition, and eventually introducing crosslinking additives. Furthermore, a comprehensive overview of the current applications of QDPR in displays is provided based on the different types of LED devices. Finally, existing problems in QDs direct photolithography are discussed, along with possible reasons and solutions. This review is expected to accelerate the development of direct photolithography patterning method and provide general guidance for the further design of QDPR for high‐end displays.
Utilization of High Entropy Alloy (Co–Cu–Fe–Mn–Ni) and Support (CeO2) Interaction for CO2 Conversion into Syngas
Authors: Gangwar Bhanu P. , Mitra Rahul , Parui Arko , Gakhad Pooja , Yadav Pradeep Kumar , Singh Abhishek Kumar , Tiwary Chandra Sekhar , Biswas Krishanu , Sharma Sudhanshu
Published: July 2024

Here metal support interaction (MSI) is demonstrated in a high entropy alloy (HEA: CoCuFeMnNi) supported CeO2. The HEA behaves as an active dry reforming catalyst only when it is supported over CeO2 oxide, clearly demonstrating MSI. Based on spectroscopic and microscopic observations, it is envisaged that the substitutional effect is the one that causes the lattice oxygen activation, an important active species during DRM reaction. Transient studies are performed to understand the surface chemistry of the interaction between methane and CO2 in the presence of a catalyst, which results in a methane decomposition first to generate hydrogen and carbon and followed by a CO2 reaction to give CO using deposited carbon. The experimental observations are further proven by mechanistic study with DFT calculations which show a major contribution of H‐assisted CO2 dissociation and pre‐H2 releasing carbon depositing CH4 dissociation and a minor contribution of pre‐CO releasing H2 formation. This MSI moves the d‐band center of the Co atoms of CoCuFeMnNi/CeO2 to the closest position of the Fermi level as compared to the isolated nanoparticles. This study can be taken as a proof of concept to demonstrate that MSI can be generated in the HEA/CeO2 catalysts for a generic heterogeneous gas phase reaction.
Interlayer Friction and Adhesion Effects in Penta‐PdSe2‐Based van der Waals Heterostructures
Authors: Ru Guoliang , Qi Weihong , Sun Shu , Tang Kewei , Du Chengfeng , Liu Weimin
Published: July 2024

Due to their inherent lattice mismatch characteristics, 2D heterostructure interfaces are considered ideal for achieving stable and sustained ultralow friction (superlubricity). Despite extensive research, the current understanding of how interface adhesion affects interlayer friction remains limited. This study focused on graphene/MoS2 and graphene/PdSe2 heterostructure interfaces, where extremely low friction coefficients of ≈10−3 are observed. In contrast, the MoS2/PdSe2 heterostructure interfaces exhibit higher friction coefficients, ≈0.02, primarily due to significant interfacial interactions driven by interlayer charge transfer, which is closely related to the ionic nature of 2D material crystals. These findings indicate that the greater the difference in ionicity between the two 2D materials comprising the sliding interfaces is, the lower the interlayer friction, providing key criteria for designing ultralow friction pairs. Moreover, the experimental results demonstrate that interlayer friction in heterostructure systems is closely associated with the material thickness and interface adhesion strength. These experimental findings are supported by molecular dynamics simulations, further validating the observed friction behavior. By integrating experimental observations with simulation analyses, this study reveals the pivotal role of interface adhesion in regulating interlayer friction and offers new insights into understanding and optimizing the frictional performance of layered solid lubricants.
A Prototype of Graphene E‐Nose for Exhaled Breath Detection and Label‐Free Diagnosis of Helicobacter Pylori Infection
Authors: Liu Xuemei , Chen Qiaofen , Xu Shiyuan , Wu Jiaying , Zhao Jingwen , He Zhengfu , Pan Aiwu , Wu Jianmin
Published: July 2024

Helicobacter pylori (HP), a common microanaerobic bacteria that lives in the human mouth and stomach, is reported to infect ≈50% of the global population. The current diagnostic methods for HP are either invasive, time‐consuming, or harmful. Therefore, a noninvasive and label‐free HP diagnostic method needs to be developed urgently. Herein, reduced graphene oxide (rGO) is composited with different metal‐based materials to construct a graphene‐based electronic nose (e‐nose), which exhibits excellent sensitivity and cross‐reactive response to several gases in exhaled breath (EB). Principal component analysis (PCA) shows that four typical types of gases in EB can be well discriminated. Additionally, the potential of the e‐nose in label‐free detection of HP infection is demonstrated through the measurement and analysis of EB samples. Furthermore, a prototype of an e‐nose device is designed and constructed for automatic EB detection and HP diagnosis. The accuracy of the prototype machine integrated with the graphene‐based e‐nose can reach 92% and 91% in the training and validation sets, respectively. These results demonstrate that the highly sensitive graphene‐based e‐nose has great potential for the label‐free diagnosis of HP and may become a novel tool for non‐invasive disease screening and diagnosis.
Cancer incidence in a cohort of Danish firefighters: An extended long‐term follow‐up 1968–2021
Authors: Pedersen Julie E. , Petersen Kajsa U. , Andersen Maria‐Helena G. , Saber Anne T. , Vogel Ulla , Ebbehøj Niels E. , Jensen Tina K. , Wils Regitze S. , Bonde Jens P. , Hansen Johnni
Published: July 2024

Objectives

To update and extend the examination of cancer incidence in a cohort of Danish firefighters, now adding 7 years of follow‐up and 2766 additional firefighters. The primary focus was directed toward cancer sites that recently contributed to the hazard evaluation conducted by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC).

Methods

The updated cohort consisted of 11,827 male Danish firefighters who were followed up for cancer from 1968 to 2021. Cohort cancer morbidity was compared with a working population reference group, and standardized incidence ratios (SIR) were used for estimation of relative risks, along with 95% confidence intervals (95% CI).

Results

Among full‐time firefighters, SIR of skin melanoma was 1.30 (95% CI: 1.02–1.66), and SIR = 1.37 (95% CI: 1.02–1.85) for over 5 years of employment. Slightly positive associations were also observed for cancer of the urinary bladder (SIR = 1.16; 95% CI: 0.93–1.45), prostate (SIR = 1.11; 95% CI: 0.97–1.28), and testis (SIR = 1.11; 95% CI: 0.75–1.63).

Conclusions

This updated study provides evidence indicating an elevated risk of skin melanoma in firefighters. Consistent with IARC's evaluation, we also identified positive associations for urinary bladder, prostate, and testis cancer. In contrast, our findings did not suggest an increased risk of colon cancer, non‐Hodgkin lymphoma, and mesothelioma. The latter may be due to small numbers in our still relatively young cohort. Continuous follow‐up for cancer in firefighters is warranted, including assessment of influence from surveillance bias.
Exploring microtubule dynamics in Alzheimer's disease: Longitudinal assessment using [11C]MPC‐6827 PET imaging in rodent models of Alzheimer's‐related pathology
Authors: Damuka Naresh , Irmen Riley E. , Krizan Ivan , Miller Mack , Gollapelli Krishna K. , Bhoopal Bhuvanachandra , Deep Ojasvi , Bansode Avinash , Lockhart Samuel N. , Orr Miranda E. , Jadiya Pooja , Bashetti Nagaraju , Kumar J. V. Shanmukha , Mintz Akiva , Whitlow Christopher T. , Craft Suzanne , Macauley Shannon L. , Solingapuram Sai Kiran K.
Published: July 2024

INTRODUCTION

Microtubule (MT) stability is crucial for proper neuronal function. Understanding MT dysregulation is critical for connecting amyloid beta (Aβ) and tau‐based degenerative events and early changes in presymptomatic Alzheimer's disease (AD). Herein we present positron emission tomography (PET) imaging properties of our MT‐PET radiotracer, [11C]MPC‐6827, in multiple established AD mouse models.

METHODS

Longitudinal PET, biodistribution, autoradiography, immunohistochemistry, and behavioral studies were conducted at multiple time points in APPswe/PSEN1dE9 (APP/PS1), P301S‐PS19 (P301S), 5xFAD, and age‐matched control mice.

RESULTS

Longitudinal [11C]MPC‐6827 brain imaging showed significant increases in APP/PS1, P301S, and 5xFAD mice compared to controls. Longitudinal MT‐PET correlated positively with biodistribution, autoradiography, and immunohistochemistry results and negatively with behavior data.

DISCUSSION

Our study demonstrated significant longitudinal [11C]MPC‐6827 PET increases in multiple AD mouse models for the first time. Strong correlations between PET and biomarker data underscored the interplay of MT destabilization, amyloid, and tau pathology in AD. These results suggest [11C]MPC‐6827 PET as a promising tool for monitoring MT dysregulation early in AD progression.

Highlights

Longitudinal positron emission tomography (PET) imaging studies using [11C]MPC‐6827 in multiple established Alzheimer's disease (AD) mouse models revealed an early onset of microtubule dysregulation, with significant changes in brain radiotracer uptake evident from 2 to 4 months of age.

Intra‐group analysis showed a progressive increase in microtubule dysregulation with increasing AD burden, supported by significant correlations between PET imaging data and biodistribution, autoradiography, and molecular pathological markers.

[11C]MPC‐6827 PET imaging demonstrated its efficacy in detecting early microtubule alterations preceding observable behavioral changes in AD mouse models, suggesting its potential for early AD imaging.

The inclusion of the 5xFAD mouse model further elucidated the impact of amyloid beta (Aβ) toxicity on inducing tau hyperphosphorylation‐mediated microtubule dysregulation, highlighting the versatility of [11C]MPC‐6827 in delineating various aspects of AD pathology.

Our study provides immediate clarity on high uptake of the microtubule‐based radiotracer in AD brains in a longitudinal setting, which directly informs clinical utility in Aβ/tau‐based studies.
Deciphering the Factors Controlling Hydrogen and Methyl Spillover upon Methane Dissociation on Rh/Cu(111) Single‐Atom Alloy
Authors: Gu Kaixuan , Guo Hua , Lin Sen
Published: July 2024

Spillover of adsorbed species from one active site to another is a key step in heterogeneous catalysis. However, the factors controlling this step, particularly the spillover of polyatomic species, have rarely been studied. Herein, we investigate the spillover dynamics of H* and CH3* species on a single‐atom alloy surface (Rh/Cu(111)) upon the dissociative chemisorption of methane (CH4), using molecular dynamics that considers both surface phonons and electron‐hole pairs. These dynamical calculations are made possible by a high‐dimensional potential energy surface machine learned from density functional theory data. Our results provide compelling evidence that the H* and CH3* can spill over on the metal surface at experimental temperatures and reveal novel dynamical features involving an internal motion during diffusion for CH3*. Increasing surface temperature has a minor effect on promoting spillover, as geminate recombinative desorption becomes more prevalent. However, the poisoning of the active site can be mitigated by the frequent gaseous molecular collisions that occur under ambient pressure in real‐world catalysis, which transfer energy to the trapped adsorbates. Interestingly, the bulky CH3* exhibits a significant spillover advantage over the light H* due to its larger size, which facilitates energy acquisition. These insights help to advance our understanding of spillover in heterogeneous catalysis.
A morphometric comparison of the ductus reuniens in humans and guinea pigs, with a note on its evolutionary importance
Authors: Smith Christopher M. , Curthoys Ian S. , Laitman Jeffrey T.
Published: July 2024

The mammalian inner ear contains the sensory organs responsible for balance (semicircular canals, utricle, and saccule) and hearing (cochlea). While these organs are functionally distinct, there exists a critical structural connection between the two: the ductus reuniens (DR). Despite its functional importance, comparative descriptions of DR morphology are limited, hindering our understanding of the evolutionary diversification of hearing and balance systems among mammals. Using virtual 3D models derived from micro‐CT, we examine the morphology of the DR and its relationship to the bony labyrinth in humans compared to that in a commonly used animal model, the guinea pig. Anatomical reconstructions and univariate measurements were carried out in the software 3D Slicer. Data indicate similarities in DR morphology between humans and guinea pigs in terms of overall shape. However, there are considerable differences in relative DR length and width between humans and guinea pigs. Humans possess a relatively shorter and narrower DR but with wider openings to the saccule and cochlear duct. This results in a relatively more constricted DR lumen in humans which may differentially limit fluid transfer between the saccule and cochlea. Our results reveal previously hidden morphological diversity in the communication between the hearing and balance systems of the mammalian inner ear which may indicate alternative strategies for isolating the Organ of Corti from the peripheral vestibular system throughout mammalian evolution.
Green Technology Approach Towards the Removal of Heavy Metals, Dyes, and Phenols from Water Using Agro‐based Adsorbents: A Review
Authors: Aftab Rameez Ahmad , Yusuf Mohammad , Ahmad Faizan , Danish Mohd , Zaidi Sadaf , Vo Dai Viet N. , Nguyen Anh-Tam , Rahman Mohammed M. , Ibrahim Hussameldin
Published: July 2024

The swift pace of socioeconomic development and climatic change have put significant strain on the quality of water resources. While, the bulk availability of agro‐based materials arising from nature and agricultural practices has paved the way for researchers in eradicating toxic industrial pollutants such as dyes, heavy‐metals, phenolic‐compounds, pesticides, etc. by using them as adsorbents. In the area of pollution remediation, inventive technologies have been developing. The adsorption technique stands out among the other wastewater‐treatment methods as it is simple, easy, efficient, and cost‐effective. The agro‐based adsorbents their use in this area contributes to minimizing natural waste. They can be employed in their original raw‐form or after undergoing simple processes such as drying, grinding, and carbonization. Moreover, these adsorbents are typically modified physically or chemically to change their surface properties and improve their adsorption efficiency. The low‐cost agro adsorbents have shown efficient adsorption capacities towards removing various organic and hazardous water pollutants. With a few exceptions, majority of adsorbents have demonstrated heavy metals, dyes and phenol removal efficiencies exceeding 90%. This review summarizes the available information and strategies for using agro‐based adsorbents to eliminate hazardous water pollutants. It is a prospective area for research in the field of environmental pollution.
GC–MS validation and analysis of targeted plasma metabolites related to carbonyl stress in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients with and without acute coronary syndrome
Authors: Bora Sushmita , Adole Prashant Shankarrao , Vinod Kolar Vishwanath , Pillai Ajith Ananthakrishna , Ahmed Shaheer
Published: July 2024

Methylglyoxal (MG) is responsible for advanced glycation end‐product formation, the mechanisms leading to diabetes pathogenesis and complications like acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Sugar metabolites, amino acids and fatty acids are possible substrates for MG. The study aimed to measure plasma MG substrate levels using a validated gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) method and explore their association with ACS risk in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The study included 150 T2DM patients with ACS as cases and 150 T2DM without ACS as controls for the analysis of glucose, fructose, ribulose, sorbitol, glycerol, pyruvate, lactate, glycine, serine, threonine, C16:0, C16:1, C18:0, C18:1, C18:2, C18:3, C20:0 and C22:6 by GC–MS. Validated GC–MS methods were accurate, precise and sensitive. Cases significantly differed in plasma MG and metabolite levels except for lactate, C16:0, C18:0, C18:2, and C18:3 levels compared with controls. On multivariable logistic regression, plasma C20:0, C18:1, glycine and glycerol levels had increased odds of ACS risk. On multivariate receiver operating characteristic analysis, a model containing plasma C20:0, C16:1, C18:1, C18:2, serine, glycerol, lactate and threonine levels had the highest area under the curve value (0.932) for ACS diagnosis. In conclusion, plasma C20:0, C16:1, C18:1, glycine, glycerol and sorbitol levels were associated with ACS risk in T2DM.
Assessment value of interleukin‐6, procalcitonin, and C‐reactive protein early kinetics for initial antibiotic efficacy in patients with febrile neutropenia: A prospective study
Authors: Zheng Haifeng , Luo Zimian , Yi Yafei , Liu Kang , Huo Zhongjun , You Yaqin , Li Hujiao , Tang Min
Published: July 2024

Background

This study aims to investigate the early kinetics of interleukin 6 (IL‐6), procalcitonin (PCT), and C‐reactive protein (CRP) on initial antibiotic efficacy in hematological disorder patients with febrile neutropenia (FN).

Methods

A total of 40 patients with 43 episodes of FN were enrolled and divided into initial antibiotic effective group (IAE group, n = 24) and initial antibiotic ineffective group (IAI group, n = 19). The levels of IL‐6, PCT, and CRP before antibacterial treatment (T0), and 12 h (T1), 24 h (T2), 48 h (T3), and 72 h (T4) post‐antibacterial treatment were determined, respectively. Furthermore, the receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) analysis was performed to evaluate the clinical value of indicators.

Results

In IAE group, the IL‐6 levels gradually decreased from T0 to T4, and the CRP levels significantly decreased at 48 to 72 h, whereas both IL‐6 and CRP remained at high levels in the IAI group. The PCT levels in both groups increased at the early stage of anti‐infection (T1–T2) and reached to peak at T1–T2 in effective group. ROC curve analysis identified IL‐6 as a predictive biomarker for initial antibiotic efficacy at 12, 48, and 72 h after treatment, with the AUC of 0.698, 0.744, and 0.821, respectively. In addition, CRP demonstrated predictive ability of initial antibiotics against infection at 24, 48, and 72 h after therapy, with the AUC of 0.724, 0.741, and 0.797, respectively. ROC curve analysis of percentage changes demonstrated that IL‐6 percentage change showed predictive ability of antibiotic efficacy at the early stage, and both the IL‐6 and CRP percentage changes showed the predictive ability of antibiotic efficacy 48 or 72 h after antibiotics therapy.

Conclusion

This study confirmed IL‐6 and CRP levels, and the percentage change in IL‐6 as the biomarkers for initial antibiotic efficacy prediction in hematological disorder patients with FN.
Multidisciplinary management of immunotherapy‐related adverse events in solid tumors: An inter‐institutional and telemedicine‐based working team
Authors: Iaculli Alessandro , Ghidini Michele , Locati Francesco , Chiappa Laura , Nastasi Giuseppe , Fasola Gianpiero , Grossi Francesco , Garrone Ornella , Tozzi Valeria D.
Published: July 2024

Background

Although immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) show a more favorable toxicity profile than classical cytotoxic drugs, their mechanism of action is responsible for peculiar new toxicities. There is an urgent need for a multidisciplinary approach to advice on how to manage organ‐specific toxicities.

Methods

Our project aims to integrate the practices of two different hospitals into a single Italian regional collaborative model to treat immune‐related adverse events (irAEs). The team structure is a multi‐professional and multidisciplinary cooperative network that consists of different medical specialists. The team referrer is the medical oncologist and an existing telematic platform is used for specialists' cooperation. The leading oncologist first evaluates patients' clinical condition, therefore team intervention and teleconsultation are planned to activate proper management. After a first phase structured for general setting, outcomes analysis, data collection, and identification of critical issues, it is planned to define appropriate key performance indicators (KPIs) in quality, structure, process, and outcome settings. Therefore, a second phase would serve to implement KPIs. In the third phase, the proposal for the enlargement of the network with the extension to more centers in the context of the Regional Health Service will be performed.

Discussion

The multidisciplinary management of irAEs based on telemedicine fits into the debate on the renewal of healthcare systems and the push for change toward multidisciplinary with the rising use of telemedicine. To our knowledge, this is the first project reporting a multi‐institutional experience for change of service in irAEs management.