bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
What women landowners want to know about conservation
Authors: Tong Jingyi , Benning Jamie , DeLong Catherine , Schultz Madeline , Zhang Wendong
Published: December 2024

Women own or co-own almost half of the land in the US Midwest and women landowners are playing an increasingly important role in production and financial decision-making. Despite their growing influence, women landowners are less engaged in conservation programs and networks, primarily due to inadequate access to conservation services and resources, leading to a scenario where men continue to dominate participation in both governmental and private conservation initiatives. The existing body of literature further echoes this disparity, with women's perspectives and voices markedly underrepresented in the United States' conservation discourse. Aiming to bridge this gap, this article delves into the attitudes of women landowners toward conservation using a 2021 survey conducted with 135 Iowa women landowners. The survey sought to shed light on their interests in various conservation topics, their concerns regarding conservation decision-making, and their preferences concerning the sources of information and the methods through which educational content is delivered. We find that women landowners are most interested in government conservation programs, followed by soil erosion control, soil fertilizer improvement, and cover crops. We provide statistical evidence that more women operating landowners are interested in conservation topics and concerned about conservation issues than women non-operating landowners in general. We further explore the variations in conservation interests among women landowners, considering their demographic and farm-specific characteristics, to highlight the diverse perspectives within this group. Additionally, we examine the preferred channels through which women landowners wish to receive educational information, offering valuable insights for policymaking and extension services. The results underscore a preference for a mix of delivery methods among women landowners, with a particular inclination toward virtual platforms, such as periodic (e-)newsletters and webinars, and printed materials such as fact sheets or infographics, over traditional in-person formats. This nuanced understanding of women landowners' educational preferences and conservation interests serves as a foundational step toward fostering more inclusive conservation programs and networks that effectively engage and represent women in the agricultural sector.
Männer, Männlichkeit, Sucht
Authors: Klein Michael
Published: December 2024

Zusammenfassung: Hintergrund: Suchterkrankungen in Bezug auf Alkohol, Nikotin, illegale Drogen und Glücksspiel stellen mit großem Abstand die häufigste psychische Störung bei Männern dar. Ergebnisse: Etwa drei Viertel der Alkohol- und Drogenabhängigen sowie Glücksspielsüchtigen sind Männer. Deshalb sind geschlechtsspezifische Ursachenforschung, Prävention und Behandlung von großer Wichtigkeit. Die Mehrzahl der bisher durchgeführten geschlechtsspezifischen Studien bezieht sich auf alkoholbezogene Probleme. Dies ist bislang in Bezug auf suchtkranke Männer zu wenig verwirklicht. Acht zentrale Ursachen für problematischen Substanzkonsum bei Männern sind zu benennen: (1) biologische Risiken, (2) Rollenstereotype, (3) externalisierende und impulsive Persönlichkeitsfaktoren, (4) Peer-Druck und Konformismus, (5) Angst, Depression und Selbstwertprobleme, (6) Stressreduktionsversuch, (7) Einsamkeitsprobleme und (8) Abhängigkeits-Autonomiekonflikt. In Bezug auf Prävention und Therapie wird ein stets um eine jungen- und männerspezifische Perspektive erweitertes Vorgehen empfohlen und mit Beispielen erläutert. Dazu zählen im deutschen Sprachbereich vor allem Programme wie „Männlichkeiten und Sucht“ oder „VIKTOR – Hilfen für ältere alkoholabhängige Männer“. Schlussfolgerungen: In der Psychotherapie tätige Fachkräfte können durch Frühintervention, zieloffene Suchttherapie und geschlechterreflektierte Behandlungen wichtige Beiträge zur Verbesserung der Versorgungslage leisten.
Changing Extreme Precipitation Patterns in Nepal Over 1971–2015
Authors: Luo Yinxue , Wang Lang , Hu Chenxi , Hao Lu , Sun Ge
Published: December 2024

This paper provides a comprehensive and comparative analysis of extreme precipitation patterns from 1971 to 2015 in Nepal, a data scarce, but “hot spot” region in global climate change. We compare in‐situ observations and gridded precipitation data from the Asian Precipitation Highly Resolved Observational Data Integration Toward Evaluation of Water Resources (APHRODITE). Using 11 precipitation indices, we show that high‐intensity (RX1day, R95pTOT, R99pTOT) and frequency‐related indices (R10 mm, R20 mm) have decreased but annual maximum consecutive dry and wet days have increased. Observations affirm these trends found by the APHRODITE, but show smaller magnitudes likely due to differences in measurements at locations made below the 3,000 m elevation line. Spatially, the relatively dry western region has become wetter, and the relatively wet eastern region has become drier post‐2003. The weakening of the South Asia Monsoon circulation, particularly assessed by the Webster and Yang Monsoon Index, correlates strongly with extreme precipitation indices. Changes in upper‐level jet and associated lower‐level monsoon trough are identified as critical factors influencing the extreme precipitation trend post‐2003. This study is the first to confirm the efficacy of APHRODITE in providing spatial and temporal precipitation patterns in a data‐limited region. We conclude that monsoon weakened circulations and changes in regional wind fields play dominant roles in the long‐term temporal and spatial trends of extreme precipitation in Nepal. The reduced precipitation extremes in the wet eastern region may somewhat lessen severe flooding and erosion, but the drier western region may face heightened risks in precipitation‐related hazards in Nepal.
Complex Fluid‐Driven Fractures Caused by Crack‐Parallel Stress
Authors: Li Wenfeng , Frash Luke P. , Carey J. William , Welch Nathan J. , Meng Meng , Viswanathan Hari S.
Published: December 2024

Managing fluid‐driven fracture networks is crucial for subsurface resource utilization, yet the current understanding of the key controlling factors remains insufficient. While geologic discontinuities have been shown to significantly influence fracture network complexity, this study identifies another major contributor. We conducted a new set of experiments using a transparent true triaxial cell, which enabled video recording of the temporal evolution of fluid‐driven fracture paths. Using pseudo‐2D samples without macroscale structural discontinuities, we observed multiple occurrences of hydraulic fracture curving and branching under anisotropic boundary stresses. We proposed a theoretical model demonstrating that the stress parallel to the crack line in the solid matrix near the crack tip (i.e., the T‐stress) accounts for the observed fracture curving behavior. This finding suggests that T‐stress is an additional mechanism contributing to the complexity of fluid‐driven fracture networks in the subsurface, besides the geologic discontinuities.
Turbulent Energy Conversion Associated With Kinetic Microinstabilities in Earth's Magnetosheath
Authors: Lewis Harry C. , Stawarz Julia E. , Matteini Lorenzo , Franci Luca , Klein Kristopher G. , Wicks Robert T. , Salem Chadi S. , Horbury Timothy S. , Wang Joseph H.
Published: December 2024

Plasma in Earth's magnetosheath rarely experiences interparticle collisions, so kinetic microinstabilities are thought to contribute to regulating the plasma thermodynamics. Instabilities excite waves and redistribute free energy in velocity space, reducing free energy in the velocity distribution function (VDF). Using 24 hr of data spread over 163 intervals of in situ magnetosheath observations by Magnetospheric Multiscale (MMS), we investigate signatures of energy conversion where the turbulent dynamics have locally distorted the VDFs into non‐Maxwellian shapes, in the context of electron and ion temperature anisotropy driven instabilities. We find enhanced average energy conversion into the particles along instability boundaries, suggesting turbulence plays a role in redistributing free energy. In so doing, we quantify the energetics associated with unstable conditions for both species. This work provides insight into the open question of how specific plasma processes couple into the turbulent dynamics, ultimately leading to energy dissipation and particle energization in collisionless plasmas.
Electroconvulsive therapy-specific volume changes in nuclei of the amygdala and their relationship to long-term anxiety improvement in depression
Authors: Ishikawa Yuzuki , Oishi Naoya , Kyuragi Yusuke , Hatakoshi Momoko , Hirano Jinichi , Noda Takamasa , Yoshihara Yujiro , Ito Yuri , Miyata Jun , Nemoto Kiyotaka , Fujita Yoshihisa , Igarashi Hiroyuki , Takahashi Kento , Murakami Shingo , Kanno Hiroyuki , Izumi Yudai , Takamiya Akihiro , Matsumoto Junya , Kodaka Fumitoshi , Nakagome Kazuyuki , Mimura Masaru , Murai Toshiya , Suwa Taro
Published: December 2024

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is one of the most effective treatments for depression. ECT induces volume changes in the amygdala, a key center of anxiety. However, the clinical relevance of ECT-induced changes in amygdala volume remains uncertain. We hypothesized that nuclei-specific amygdala volumes and anxiety symptoms in depression could explain the clinical correlates of ECT-induced volume changes. To test this hypothesis, we enrolled patients with depression who underwent ECT (N = 20) in this multicenter observational study and collected MRI data at three time points: before and after treatment and a 6-month follow-up. Patients who received medication (N = 52), cognitive behavioral therapy (N = 63), or transcranial magnetic stimulation (N = 20), and healthy participants (N = 147) were included for comparison. Amygdala nuclei were identified using FreeSurfer and clustered into three subdivisions to enhance reliability and interpretability. Anxiety symptoms were quantified using the anxiety factor scores derived from the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale. Before treatment, basolateral and basomedial subdivisions of the right amygdala were smaller than those of healthy controls. The volumes of the amygdala subdivisions increased after ECT and decreased during the follow-up period, but the volumes at 6-month follow-up were larger than those observed before treatment. These volume changes were specific to ECT. Long-term volume changes in the right basomedial amygdala correlated with improvements in anxiety symptoms. Baseline volumes in the right basolateral amygdala correlated with long-term improvements in anxiety symptoms. These findings demonstrate that clinical correlates of ECT-induced amygdala volume changes are existent, but in a nucleus and symptom-specific manner.
Development of a RIPK1 degrader to enhance antitumor immunity
Authors: Yu Xin , Lu Dong , Qi Xiaoli , Paudel Rishi Ram , Lin Hanfeng , Holloman Bryan L. , Jin Feng , Xu Longyong , Ding Lang , Peng Weiyi , Wang Meng C. , Chen Xi , Wang Jin
Published: December 2024

The scaffolding function of receptor interacting protein kinase 1 (RIPK1) confers intrinsic and extrinsic resistance to immune checkpoint blockades (ICBs) and emerges as a promising target for improving cancer immunotherapies. To address the challenge posed by a poorly defined binding pocket within the intermediate domain of RIPK1, here we harness proteolysis targeting chimera (PROTAC) technology to develop a RIPK1 degrader, LD4172. LD4172 exhibits potent and selective RIPK1 degradation both in vitro and in vivo. Degradation of RIPK1 by LD4172 triggers immunogenic cell death, enhances tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte responses, and sensitizes tumors to anti-PD1 therapy in female C57BL/6J mice. This work reports a RIPK1 degrader that serves as a chemical probe for investigating the scaffolding functions of RIPK1 and as a potential therapeutic agent to enhance tumor responses to ICBs therapy.
Genomic and transmission dynamics of the 2024 Marburg virus outbreak in Rwanda
Authors: Butera Yvan , Mutesa Leon , Parker Edyth , Muvunyi Raissa , Umumararungu Esperance , Ayitewala Alisen , Musabyimana Jean Pierre , Olono Alhaji , Sesonga Placide , Ogunsanya Olusola , Kabalisa Emmanuel , Adedokun Oluwatobi , Gahima Nelson , Irankunda Laetitia , Mutezemariya Chantal , Niyonkuru Richard , Uwituze Arlene , Uwizera Ithiel , Kagame James , Umugwaneza Arlette , Rwabuhihi John , Umwanankabandi Fidele , Mbonitegeka Valens , Ntagwabira Edouard , Kayigi Etienne , Izuwayo Gerard , Murenzi Herve , Mukankwiro Therese , Tuyiringire Nasson , Uwimana Jean Marie Vianney , Gasengayire Agnes , Sindayiheba Reuben , Onyeugo Glory-Ugochi , Aragaw Merawi , Gitundu Lenny , Bigirimana Radjabu , Fallah Mosoka , Ejikeme Adaora , Sembuche Senga , Kabanda Alice , Mugisha Jean Claude , Francis Emmanuel Edwar Siddig , Gashema Pierre , Ndayisenga Jerome , Rugamba Alexis , Kanyabwisha Faustin , Murenzi Gad , Happi Anise , Ngabonziza Jean Claude Semuto , Gashegu Misbah , Ahmed Ayman , Bigirimana Noella , Rwagasore Edson , Semakula Muhammed , Rwabihama Jean Paul , Musanabaganwa Clarisse , Seruyange Eric , Nkeshimana Menelas , Twagirumugabe Theogene , Turatsinze David , Remera Eric , Gahamanyi Noel , Tessema Sofonias Kifle , Mukagatare Isabelle , Nsanzimana Sabin , Happi Christian , Muvunyi Claude Mambo
Published: December 2024

The ongoing outbreak of Marburg virus disease in Rwanda marks the third largest historically, although it has shown the lowest fatality rate. Genomic analysis of samples from 18 cases identified a lineage with limited internal diversity, closely related to a 2014 Ugandan case. Our findings suggest that the Rwandan lineage diverged decades ago from a common ancestor shared with diversity sampled from bats in Uganda. Our genomic data reveal limited genetic variation, consistent with a single zoonotic transmission event and limited human-to-human transmission. Investigations including contact tracing, clinical assessments, sequencing and serology, linked the index case to a mining cave inhabited by Rousettus aegyptiacus. Serology tests identified three individuals seropositive for immunoglobulin G and immunoglobulin M, further supporting the zoonotic origin of the outbreak through human–animal interactions.
A quantitative multi-parameter mapping protocol standardized for clinical research in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Trang Henri , Hartung Tim J. , Chen Qianlan , Hetzer Stefan , Chien Claudia , Sperber Pia S. , Schmitz-Hübsch Tanja , Asseyer Susanna , Rust Rebekka , Mewes Darius , Anderhalten Lina , Sy Michael , Brandt Alexander U. , Finke Carsten , Paul Friedemann
Published: December 2024

Quantitative magnetic resonance imaging (qMRI) involves mapping microstructure in standardized units sensitive to histological properties and supplements conventional MRI, which relies on contrast weighted images where intensities have no biophysical meaning. While measuring tissue properties such as myelin, iron or water content is desired in a disease context, qMRI changes may typically reflect mixed influences from aging or pre-clinical degeneration. We used a fast multi-parameter mapping (MPM) protocol for clinical routine at 3T to reconstruct whole-brain quantitative maps of magnetization transfer saturation (MT), proton density (PD), longitudinal (R1), and transverse relaxation rate (R2*) with 1.6 mm isotropic resolution. We report reference MPM values from a healthy population with age and gender distributions typical of multiple sclerosis in whole brain white matter (WM), T2-weighted WM hyperintensities, cortical grey matter and deep grey matter regions and present post-processing optimizations including integration of lesions and normalization of PD maps against cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) for standardized research in multiple sclerosis (MS) and potentially also in related disorders. PD maps were affected by WM abnormalities in MS using WM calibration. The results acknowledge the impact of non-linear age effects on MPM and suggest using CSF calibration for future clinical application in MS.
Effect of berry maturity stages on the germination and protein constituents of African nightshade (Solanum scabrum) seeds
Authors: Ekhuya Noella Andenyi , Onyango Mary Abukutsa , Senkler Jennifer , Winkelmann Traud , Bündig Christin
Published: December 2024

African nightshade (Solanum scabrum) is a vegetable of great importance in several African countries. Production by seed is constrained by limited access to high quality seed, leaving farmers unable to meet the growing demand. The aim of this study was to investigate effects of berry maturity stages (mature green and purple) on germination and protein components of African nightshade seeds. Nine accessions were used for the germination assays and three selected for the proteomics. The seeds harvested at the purple ripe stage showed a higher germination percentage than seeds harvested at the mature green stage. Seeds of three accessions, which showed different germination responses depending on maturity, were subjected to gel-based proteome comparison followed by mass spectrometry. Analysis revealed a total of 563 spots, of which 19–23% were differentially abundant between the two harvest times. This is the first study to utilise proteomics in African nightshade. Four types of seed storage proteins were identified. Identified proteins were associated with seed maturation, indicating more advanced maturation stages in accessions with higher germination capacity. In addition, a reference proteome map of S. scabrum was created using GelMap platform (www.gelmap.de). Colour change of African nightshade berries seems to be a suitable indicator for seed maturity.
Energy-resolved fast-neutron radiography using an event-mode neutron imaging detector
Authors: Wolfertz Alexander , Losko Adrian , Long Alexander M. , Brodish Sophia , Craft Aaron E. , Khaplanov Anton , Vogel Sven C. , Nelson Ronald O. , Wender Stephen A. , Tremsin Anton , Hirsh Tsviki Y. , Jäger Tim T. , Morgano Manuel , Feng Patrick
Published: December 2024

Energy-resolved fast-neutron radiography is a powerful non-destructive technique that can be used to remotely measure the quantity and distribution of elements and isotopes in a sample. This is done by comparing the energy-dependent neutron transmission of a sample with the known cross-sections of individual isotopes. The reconstruction of the composition is possible due to the unique features (e.g. resonances) in the cross-sections of individual isotopes. At short-pulsed ($${\lesssim }$$ 1 ns) neutron sources, such information is accessible via time-of-flight neutron imaging in principle, but requires a detector with nanosecond temporal resolution. Conventional neutron detectors can meet this requirement only by heavily compromising spatial resolution or efficiency. Here, we present a unique approach on fast neutron resonance radiography using a scintillator-based event-mode imaging detector at a short-pulsed neutron source, including first results on spatially mapped resonance profiles using MeV neutrons. The event mode approach applied in the presented detector allows recording of individual neutron interactions with nanosecond precision in time and sub-mm resolution in space. As a result, the entire available neutron energy spectrum can be measured for each pulse. At the same time, the use of a thick scintillator screen and lenses to focus the produced light results in a highly flexible field of view and a high interaction probability in the sensitive volume of the detector.
Re-design and evaluation of diclofenac-based carborane-substituted prodrugs and their anti-cancer potential
Authors: Selg Christoph , Gordić Vuk , Krajnović Tamara , Buzharevski Antonio , Laube Markus , Kazimir Aleksandr , Lönnecke Peter , Wolniewicz Mara , Sárosi Menyhárt B. , Schädlich Jonas , Pietzsch Jens , Mijatović Sanja , Maksimović-Ivanić Danijela , Hey-Hawkins Evamarie
Published: December 2024

In this study, we investigated a novel anti-cancer drug design approach by revisiting diclofenac-based carborane-substituted prodrugs. The redesigned compounds combine the robust carborane scaffold with the oxindole framework, resulting in four carborane-derivatized oxindoles and a unique zwitterionic amidine featuring a nido-cluster. We tested the anti-cancer potential of these prodrugs against murine colon adenocarcinoma (MC38), human colorectal carcinoma (HCT116), and human colorectal adenocarcinoma (HT29). The tests showed that diclofenac and the carborane-substituted oxindoles exhibited no cytotoxicity, the dichlorophenyl-substituted oxindole had moderate anti-cancer activity, while with the amidine this effect was strongly potentiated with activity mapping within low micromolar range. Compound 3 abolished the viability of selected colon cancer cell line MC38 preferentially through strong inhibition of cell division and moderate apoptosis accompanied by ROS/RNS depletion. Our findings suggest that carborane-based prodrugs could be a promising direction for new anti-cancer therapies. Inhibition assays for COX-1 and COX-2 revealed that while diclofenac had strong COX inhibition, the re-engineered carborane compounds demonstrated a varied range of anti-cancer effects, probably owing to both, COX inhibition and COX-independent pathways.
Ferric nitrene-promoted anti-Markovnikov ring-opening of epoxides and nucleophilic functionalization of benzylic C–H bonds under photo-irradiation
Authors: Hou Ming , Jia Mengjie , Qi Rui , Zhang Zhide , He Linli , Bai Tianwen , Bao Chen , Qiu Guanyinsheng
Published: December 2024

In this work, a ferric nitrene/photoredox dual-catalyzed reaction is developed for an anti-Markovnikov ring-opening of epoxides and nucleophilic functionalization of benzylic C–H bonds.
A ferroelectric helical polymer
Authors: Bandyopadhyay Supriya , Barman Shubhankar , Paul Swadesh , Datta Anuja , Ghosh Suhrit
Published: December 2024

This communication introduces helical polyacetylene (P1) with an appended acceptor (A)–donor (D)–acceptor (A) conjugated chromophore as a promising ferroelectric candidate.
Multi-scale numerical simulations of photothermal therapy for tumors based on PDA-coated gold nanoparticles
Authors: Huang Jiaming , Lu Hong , Zhou Junpeng , Zhang Wenying , Yuan Shuai
Published: December 2024

A multiscale computational model to simulate AuNP@PDA nanoparticles for assisted tumor photothermal therapy. This multiscale strategy provides a new insight into the study of the properties of complex systems in the absence of experimental data.
Experimental and computational studies of cationic Gemini surfactants as corrosion inhibitors for carbon steel in 15% HCl
Authors: Wang Chenxu , Yang Erlong
Published: December 2024

The synthesized surfactant molecules can adsorb on metal steel via strong physicochemical adsorption, and exhibit greater inhibition performance compared with traditional single-chain surfactants and other Gemini surfactants.
An interface-modulating spin-valley electron beam splitter and perfect spin-valley filter in a topological–insulator junction
Authors: Yang Jia-En
Published: December 2024

This study proposes a spin-valley electron beam splitter in a three-terminal topological–insulator junction. Furthermore, two perfect spin-valley filters are designed based on the beam splitter.
Controlling orbital ordering of intergrowth structures with flat [Ag(II)F2] layers to mimic oxocuprates(ii)
Authors: Jezierski Daniel , Lorenzana José , Grochala Wojciech
Published: December 2024

A new family of intergrowth structures containing strongly correlated antiferromagnetic layers of AgF2 is introduced. Charge reservoir layers allow to control the strain and magnetic properties, rendering them superior to oxocuprates(ii).
Interface engineering for photoelectrochemical oxygen evolution reaction
Authors: Xiao Yequan , Fu Jie , Pihosh Yuriy , Karmakar Keshab , Zhang Beibei , Domen Kazunari , Li Yanbo
Published: December 2024

This comprehensive review provides a holistic overview of recent advances in interface engineering strategies for photoelectrochemical water oxidation, highlighting their role in improving device efficiency and stability.
Enhanced peroxymonosulfate activation by copper-doped bismuth oxides for the efficient photo-degradation of ciprofloxacin: crucial role of copper sites, theoretical calculation and mechanism insight
Authors: Wang Wei , Yang Zhixiong , Li Yuan , Wang Junting , Zhang Gaoke
Published: December 2024

Cu doping enhances charge separation in BiO2−x nanosheets, activating PMS for efficient ciprofloxacin degradation under light irradiation.
An upcycling strategy for polyamide 6: preparing thermoplastic polyamide elastomers from glycolysates produced by controlled degradation
Authors: Lan Ji , Deng Cong , Zhao Ze-Yong , Wang Yu-Zhong
Published: December 2024

Synthesis of thermoplastic polyamide elastomers from glycolysates derived through controlled degradation of polyamide 6.
Replacing polyacrylonitrile with Kraft lignin for sustainable carbon fiber manufacturing mitigates carbon emissions
Authors: Wang Shaokai , Zhang Yan , Gao Hairong , Jin Keda , Ao Can , Tian Luning , He Qingyao , Yi Baojun , Ai Ping , Cao Weiyu , Pu Yunqiao , Cheng Yunjiang , Li Qiang
Published: December 2024

Lignin as a green alternative to PAN for sustainable carbon fiber production.
An intimal-lumen model in a microfluidic device: potential platform for atherosclerosis-related studies
Authors: Akther Fahima , Sajin Dimple , Moonshi Shehzahdi S. , Pickett Jessica , Wu Yuao , Zhang Jun , Nguyen Nam-Trung , Ta Hang Thu
Published: December 2024

A microfluidic early atherosclerosis intimal-lumen model for in vivo-like monocyte transmigration and foam cell formation.
Amorphous nitride semiconductors with highly tunable optical and electronic properties: the benefits of disorder in Ca–Zn–N thin films
Authors: Sirotti Elise , Böhm Stefan , Grötzner Gabriel , Christis Maximilian , Wagner Laura I. , Wolz Lukas , Munnik Frans , Eichhorn Johanna , Stutzmann Martin , Streibel Verena , Sharp Ian D.
Published: December 2024

In amorphous Ca–Zn–N, charge carrier concentrations can be tuned across six orders of magnitude, without compromising their high mobilities and while offering tunable band gaps in the range from 1.4 to 2.0 eV, by solely adjusting the Ca to Zn ratio.
Catalytic synthesis of dimethyl carbonate from urea and methanol using SnO2 nanoplates
Authors: M. Imthiaz Ahmed , Shukla Kartikeya , Mishra Santosh Kumar , Gaikwad Mahendra , Lin Yi-Feng
Published: December 2024

SnO2 was synthesized using precipitation, hydrothermal, and sol–gel combustion methods. The catalysts were further used for the synthesis of dimethyl carbonate (DMC) using urea and methanol.
Efficient removal of cationic dye from aqueous media using alkali-treated multilayered polymer microspheres prepared via emulsion polymerization
Authors: Hassan Abir , Dutta Sagar Kumar , Hossain Muhammad Sarwar , Haque Md. Rezaul , Hasan Md. Kamrul
Published: December 2024

PSt/P(St-co-MAA) copolymer microspheres are synthesized via emulsion polymerization. Subsequently, the microspheres are treated with alkali solution to create a rough surface for efficiently removing methylene blue from aqueous media.
Impact of paramagnetic CuII and diamagnetic ZnII ions on single-molecule magnetism in heterodinuclear 3d–4f complexes displaying slow relaxation of magnetization
Authors: Nandy Rakhi , Jana Narayan Ch. , Jagodič Marko , Jagličić Zvonko , Brandão Paula , Saha Amrita , Panja Anangamohan
Published: December 2024

We report the synthesis of heterometallic 3d–4f complexes with paramagnetic CuII and diamagnetic ZnII ions, unveiling rare slow relaxation of magnetization in the Cu–Gd analogue and offering valuable insights into their magnetic dynamics.
Robust MXene-based superhydrophobic fabrics for efficient separation of high-viscosity lubricating oil/water emulsions
Authors: Zhang Hongliang , Guo Zhiguang
Published: December 2024

Deteriorated lubricating oil poses separation challenges due to its high viscosity. To address this issue, this paper introduces a superhydrophobic cotton fabric prepared via a one-pot method using PDA/MXene/SiO2.
Kinetics and dynamics of atomic-layer dissolution on low-defect Ag
Authors: Wang Yufei , Garcia-Carrillo Roberto , Ren Hang
Published: December 2024

Local electrochemical measurement at the low-defect region of Ag generates potential oscillation when the current is a few pA. This oscillation is related to the kinetics and dynamics Ag dissolution one atomic layer at a time.
Diacetylene-bridged covalent organic framework as crystalline graphdiyne analogue for photocatalytic hydrogen evolution
Authors: Lin Zhiqing , Dai Songyao , Yao Shan , Lin Qia-Chun , Fu Mengying , Chung Lai-Hon , Han Bin , He Jun
Published: December 2024

A crystalline graphdiyne-like network built from diyne-preinstalled linkers and triformylphloroglucinol features improved planarity, charge transfer, alkyne density and better photocatalytic H2 evolution rate than monoacetylene-bridged analogues.
Nanoparticle superlattice with a C14 Frank–Kasper structure formed by highly monodisperse one-size gold nanoparticles in suspension
Authors: Almomani Saed , Ha Jae-Min , Lee Sang-Jo , Balakrishnan Thiruparasakthi , Choi Sung-Min
Published: December 2024

The C14 Frank–Kasper (C14) structure like MgZn2-type can be formed in highly monodisperse one-size spherical nanoparticles (NPs) by controlling the interplay among their softness and ligand grafting density.
Non-monotonic frictional behavior in the lubricated sliding of soft patterned surfaces
Authors: Kargar-Estahbanati Arash , Rallabandi Bhargav
Published: December 2024

We study the lubricated contact of sliding soft surfaces that are locally patterned but globally cylindrical, held together under an external normal force.
Biomimetic CuO/ZTF-8 nanozyme based neoteric sensor towards selective detection of superoxide anion
Authors: Sruthi Vadakke Purakkal , Sarfudeen Shafeeq , Panda Tamas , Kathavarayan Thenmozhi , Sellappan Senthilkumar
Published: December 2024

Superoxide (O2•-) is a short-lived oxygen intermediate and an inevitable member of the family of reactive oxygen species, which is found to take part in several physiological and pathological processes....
Controlling optoelectronic properties through protonation with π-extended triphenodioxazine diimides
Authors: Kumar Rhea , Taddei Mario , Petropoulos Vasilis , Russo Mattia , Vernuccio Federico , Cerullo Giulio , Polli Dario , Nenov Artur , Demitri Nicola , Prato Maurizio , Maiuri Margherita , Dosso Jacopo
Published: December 2024

The dramatic effect of protonation on the optoelectronic properties of triphenodioxazine diimides is studied for the first time.
A dual-inhibition aptamer gated OPECT biosensor based on a MOF-derived CAU-17/Bi2S3 Z-scheme heterojunction for rapid detection of bacterial quorum sensing signal molecules
Authors: Ju Peng , Wang Shiliang , Wen Siyu , Liu Weixing , Wang Jinquan , Xiao Long , Wang Shuai , Ma Fubin , Chi Zhe
Published: December 2024

A dual-inhibition aptamer gated OPECT biosensor based on a MOF-derived CAU-17/Bi2S3 Z-scheme heterojunction was constructed for the rapid and ultrasensitive detection of bacterial quorum sensing signal molecules.
Syntactic Growth of Adolescent Boys With Fragile X Syndrome or Down Syndrome: A Longitudinal Study
Authors: Linert Jamie , Finestack Lizbeth H. , Abbeduto Leonard
Published: December 2024

Purpose:

The current study addresses a gap in the literature regarding syntactic development of adolescent boys with fragile X syndrome (FXS) and Down syndrome (DS). Specifically, we ask whether syntactic skills plateau or continue to change during adolescence for these groups and whether the profile of syntactic change differs between boys with FXS and those with DS.

Method:

Participants were 38 boys with FXS (with and without autism) and 20 boys with DS between the ages of 10 and 16 years, as well as 33 boys who were neurotypical between the ages of 3 and 8 years at study entry. Trained examiners evaluated the participants annually for four consecutive years. The evaluation included standardized language assessments and a conversational language sample, which was analyzed using mean length of utterance–morphemes and the Index of Productive Syntax. For each measure, we fit a series of candidate models, including the intercept-only model and models with nonverbal cognition and maternal IQ as moderators. We then used Akaike's information criteria–corrected to determine which model in a candidate set had the most empirical evidence.

Results:

Our between-groups results indicated that FXS and DS have distinct syntactic profiles. However, our growth analyses and moderator analyses yielded mixed results. For most measures, the most likely models suggest that there is no plateau in the growth of syntactic skills for boys with FXS or DS and that nonverbal cognition is associated with the rate of change.

Conclusions:

These results suggest that syntactic change continues to occur throughout adolescence for boys with FXS or DS. The results also indicate that the growth profiles are distinct between the two groups. Future research with more participants from more diverse backgrounds would add more clarity to these findings.

Supplemental Material:

https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.27984548
Speech Development Between 30 and 119 Months in Typical Children III: Interaction Between Speaking Rate and Intelligibility
Authors: Mahr Tristan J. , Rathouz Paul J. , Hustad Katherine C.
Published: December 2024

Purpose:

Earlier work has established developmental benchmarks for intelligibility and articulation rate, but the intersection of these two variables, especially within individual children, has received limited attention. This study examines the interaction between intelligibility and speaking rate in typically developing children between the ages 2;6 and 9;11 (years;months) and evaluates whether children show a speed–accuracy trade-off in their habitual speech production.

Method:

Speech samples of varying lengths were collected from 538 typically developing children. Intelligibility was measured as the number of words correctly transcribed by untrained adult listeners, and speaking rate was calculated in number of syllables per second. Regression models estimated the effects of age, utterance length, and speaking rate on intelligibility.

Results:

Intelligibility and speaking rate were positively correlated overall but weakly correlated after adjusting for age. In regression analyses, intelligibility increased with age and decreased with utterance length, and there was a trend for intelligibility to decrease with increased speaking rate, especially in longer utterances. At the individual level, for most children, there was a negative effect of speaking rate on intelligibility.

Conclusions:

Our findings provide evidence from a large-scale sample for the hypothesis that children's speech is subject to a speed–accuracy trade-off where increased speaking rate leads to reduced articulatory accuracy and hence reduced intelligibility. Further research is needed on how to apply this trade-off in a clinical setting.

Supplemental Material:

https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.27964125
Audio steganalysis using multi‐scale feature fusion‐based attention neural network
Authors: Peng Jinghui , Liao Yi , Tang Shanyu
Published: December 2024

Deep learning techniques have shown promise in audio steganalysis, which involves detecting the presence of hidden information (steganography) in audio files. However, deep learning models are prone to overfitting, particularly when there is limited data or when the model architecture is too complex relative to the available data for VoIP steganography. To address these issues, new deep‐learning approaches need to be explored. In this study, a new convolutional neural network for audio steganalysis, incorporating a multi‐scale feature fusion method and an attention mechanism, was devised to enhance the detection of steganographic content in audio signals encoded with G729a. To improve the network's adaptability, a multi‐scale parallel multi‐branch architecture was employed, allowing characteristic signals to be sampled with varying granularities and adjusting the receptive field effectively. The attention mechanism enables weight learning on the feature information after multi‐scale processing, capturing the most relevant information for steganalysis. By combining multiple feature representations using a weighted combination, the deep learning model's performance was significantly enhanced. Through rigorous experimentation, an impressive accuracy rate of 94.55% was achieved in detecting malicious steganography. This outcome demonstrates the efficacy of the proposed neural network, leveraging both the multi‐scale feature fusion method and the attention mechanism.
A deep Chandra study confirms diffuse nonthermal X-ray emission from the globular cluster Terzan 5
Authors: Zhao Jiaqi , Heinke Craig O. , Fu Su
Published: December 2024

Context. Diffuse X-ray emission has been detected from a few Galactic globular clusters (GCs), but its nature remains largely unclear. The GC Terzan 5 was previously found to show a significant diffuse thermal X-ray excess from its field, likely contributed by the Galactic background, and a nonthermal component described by a power-law model with photon index Γ ~ 1.

Aims. With over 16 times the accumulated Chandra exposure time compared to a prior study, we reexamined and verified the diffuse X-ray emission from the field of Terzan 5, which enabled us to place constraints on its nature.

Methods. We analyzed all available useful Chandra observations of Terzan 5, including 18 observations over a span of 13 years, with a total exposure time of 641.6 ks. To study the diffuse X-ray emission, we focused on four annular regions with an equal width of 0.72 arcmin centered on Terzan 5 (0.72–3.60 arcmin), from which we extracted and analyzed the X-ray spectra after removing point sources and instrumental backgrounds.

Results. We confirm a significant diffuse X-ray excess from the field of Terzan 5 in the band 0.8–3 keV. After constraining the contribution from the local X-ray background, we find a diffuse X-ray component that is genuinely associated with Terzan 5 and can be well described by a power-law model. More interestingly, the fitted photon indices show a significant increase from Γ = 1.96 ± 0.18 in the inner region to Γ = 3.48 ± 0.71 in the outer region. The diffuse X-rays are also well fit by a thermal bremsstrahlung model, with plasma temperatures declining from kT ∼ 3 keV to kT ∼ 1 keV.

Conclusions. We suggest that synchrotron radiation from the combined pulsar winds of Terzan 5’s millisecond pulsar population is a possible origin of the observed diffuse X-ray emission but that the sharp steepening in the spectra cannot be produced solely by synchrotron cooling. Other radiation processes, like thermal bremsstrahlung, may also contribute to the diffuse X-rays.
Swallowing Assessment in a Pediatric Case of Allan–Herndon–Dudley Syndrome (MCT8 Deficiency): Advanced Insights into Dysphagia via Flexible Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing
Authors: Scholtes Nina , Jelesch Evelyn , Diesener Paul , Stoffels Johannes C. , Völkl Thomas M.K
Published: December 2024

Patients with MCT8 deficiency often present with underweight and are prone to frequent pulmonary infections, including aspiration pneumonia. Despite commonly reported swallowing difficulties in this population, specific dysphagia symptoms have not been well-documented. We conducted a flexible endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES) on a young boy diagnosed with MCT8 deficiency, who exhibited recurrent pulmonary infections and failed to achieve substantial weight gain despite an oral energy intake appropriate for his age and height. The FEES revealed generally weakened swallowing mechanisms, characterized by prolonged swallow and cough sequences, along with penetration and aspiration of both fluid and semi-solid test boluses. Given the considerable effort associated with oral intake, we hypothesize that dysphagia contributes to his underweight status, alongside peripheral thyrotoxicosis. In conclusion, FEES proved to be an invaluable tool in identifying underlying swallowing impairments and assessing the need for gastrostomy in this patient. For MCT8 deficiency, patients presenting with underweight, frequent pulmonary infections, and swallowing difficulties, it is recommended that diagnostic evaluations include FEES to thoroughly assess their swallowing function and airway protection.
Indomethacin and Cefazolin for Physical Exam-Indicated Cerclage to Improve Latency: A Protocol Validation Study
Authors: Young Nicola R. , Gatta Luke A. , Wheeler Sarahn M. , Federspiel Jerome J. , Dotters-Katz Sarah K.
Published: December 2024

Objective A single-center randomized trial showed improved latency with use of indomethacin and cefazolin (I/C) during and following exam-indicated cerclage (EIC). The same center recently published a pre/post comparison demonstrating similar results. This research aimed to validate the protocol in a different setting.

Study Design Retrospective cohort study of singleton pregnancies undergoing EIC at a single center between 2013 and 2022. EIC was performed for painless cervical dilation between 16 and 23 weeks' gestation with dilation ≥1 cm. Exposure was defined as receipt of I/C during and following EIC. The primary outcome was latency ≥ 28 days after cerclage placement. Secondary outcomes included latency; gestational age at delivery; delivery ≤ 28 weeks; preterm premature rupture of membranes; intra-amniotic infection (IAI); and median birth weight. Bivariate statistics were used to analyze data; multivariable regression analyses were used to control for confounders (progesterone use, cervical dilation at time of cerclage placement, history of preterm birth, and prolapsing membranes).

Results EIC was placed in 81 pregnancies and 48 (59%) received I/C. Baseline characteristics did not differ between groups, except that prolapsing membranes were significantly less likely in patients receiving I/C (6.2 vs. 21.2%; p = 0.04). Latency ≥ 28 days occurred in 90% of I/C recipients and 82% of the controls (p = 0.32); this difference remained nonsignificant after controlling for confounders (adjusted relative risk: 1.02 [95% confidence interval: 0.85, 1.21]). I/C recipients had lower rates of IAI (4.2 vs. 24.2%, p = 0.007), even after adjustment (adjusted relative risk: 0.18 [95% confidence interval: 0.04, 0.74]). Other secondary outcomes did not differ.

Conclusion Use of I/C at the time of EIC at this center was not associated with increased latency to delivery (albeit in a small cohort) but was associated with lower rates of intra-amniotic infection. Larger-scale validation studies would be helpful to confirm the value of this intervention.

Key Points
Assessment of safety and patency of 7-mm covered metal stents for preoperative biliary drainage in pancreatic cancer: Prospective multicenter study
Authors: Ishiwatari Hirotoshi , Kobayashi Yousuke , Kawaguchi Shinya , Iwashita Takuji , Kaneko Junichi , Ito Jun , Ishikawa Kazuma , Sato Junya , Niiya Fumitaka , Endo Shinya , Satoh Tatsunori , Uemura Shinya , Mori Keita
Published: December 2024

For preoperative biliary drainage of pancreatic cancer (PC), a 10-mm diameter metal stent (MS) is commonly used; however, the rate of pancreatitis is high. It is hypothesized that smaller-diameter MS may reduce the rate of pancreatitis. Therefore, we conducted a multicenter prospective study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of 7-mm MS.

Patients requiring initial biliary drainage for obstructive jaundice caused by PC and scheduled for surgery from six facilities were included. After endoscopic retrograde cholangiography, a 7-mm MS was placed at the site of biliary obstruction. The primary endpoint was the rate of pancreatitis, and the secondary endpoints included early and late adverse events (AEs). The pancreatitis rate was assumed to be 18% and 5% with 10- and 7-mm MS, respectively; with a power of 80% and one-sided significance level of 10%, the planned enrollment was 38 patients. If pancreatitis occurred in no more than three patients, this indicates that the 7-mm MS effectively reduced incidence of pancreatitis.

Overall, 38 patients were enrolled, and 35 patients in whom a 7-mm MS was successfully placed were analyzed. All MS were placed after sphincterotomy. Pancreatitis occurred in four patients (11.4%) and no early AEs were observed. Surgery was performed in 24 patients and late AEs included stent occlusion in eight patients (23%) and cholecystitis in four patients (11%).

The 7-mm MS did not reduce incidence of pancreatitis among surgical candidates for PC.
Spirocyclizations of Nortropanes
Authors: Shivanyuk Alexander , Lukin Oleg , Dolgonos Grygoriy , Gerasov Andrii , Mandzhulo Aleksandr , Fetyukhin Volodymyr
Published: December 2024

The shape-persistent bicyclic nortropane fragment is frequently found in both natural remedies and synthetic drugs. Herein we review synthetic approaches towards spirocyclic nortropanes, as well as their studied stereochemical properties and biological activity.

1 Introduction

2 Spiro Hybrids of Nortropane with Three-Membered Cycles

3 Spiro Hybrids of Nortropane with Four-Membered Cycles

4 Spiro Hybrids of Nortropane with Five-Membered Cycles

5 Spiro Hybrids of Nortropane with Six-Membered and Larger Cycles

6 Conclusions
Dynamics of librational motion in N2-type crystals. II. Joint account of anharmonic and correlation effects
Authors: Antsygina T. N. , Slyusarev V. A. , Freiman Yu. A. , Érenburg A. I.
Published: December 2024

The dynamics of librational motion in N2-type crystals is treated by taking into account both correlation and anharmonic effects. Temperature dependences of the order parameter, heat capacity, mean and free energies of the librational subsystems are calculated. Comparison is made with results of a computer experiment obtained by the Monte-Carlo method.
Electrical conductivity of one-dimensional disordered systems with Peierls doubling
Authors: Antsygina T. N. , Slyusarev V. A.
Published: December 2024

The electrical conductivity is calculated for a one-dimensional system with a random distribution of impurities in the presence of Peierls doubling. The frequency and temperature dependence of the electrical conductivity is found in various limiting cases.
RMS displacements of electrons in a two dimensional Wigner crystal
Authors: Monarkha Yu. P. , Sokolov S. S.
Published: December 2024

We study the quantization of the vibrations in a two dimensional Wigner crystal in the presence of a magnetic field and also under conditions of strong electron–ripplon coupling. Under these conditions we calculate the magnitude of the rms displacements of the electrons ⟨u2⟩ at the lattice sites as a function of the magnetic field strength and the temperature. Based on the results obtained we estimate the validity of the various approaches described in the literature for the determination of ⟨u2⟩.
Fluctuation correlation and superfluidity in a two-dimensional film of atomic hydrogen
Authors: Shevchenko S. I.
Published: December 2024

The possibility of superfluidity in a film of spin-polarized atomic hydrogen adsorbed at the surface of the hydrogen-containing vessel is studied. It is shown that the transition to the superfluid phase occurs as a topological phase transition. A criterion for the transition of the hydrogen film into the superfluid (but not crystalline) phase is established. It is shown that the superfluid transition can occur only when the interaction constant γ, related to the interaction potential of hydrogen atoms by the relation V(ρ1 − ρ2) = γδ(p1 − p2), satisfies the inequality γ ≲ πħ2/m, where m is the mass of a hydrogen atom. The transition temperature is found.