bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hepatocyte‐derived extracellular vesicles regulate liver regeneration through a negative feedback mechanism
Authors: McGinn Mina , Rabender Christopher , Mikkelsen Ross , Yakovlev Vasily
Published: November 2024

While significant progress has been made in understanding various aspects of liver regeneration, the molecular mechanisms responsible for the initiation and termination of cell proliferation in the liver following massive tissue loss or injury of liver remain unknown. As it was previously shown, the loss of liver mass affects putative hepatocyte‐specific mitogenic inhibitors in the blood. Although the presence of these putative inhibitors regulating precise liver regeneration has been described in numerous publications, they have never been identified. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are nano‐sized, membrane‐limited structures secreted by cells into the extracellular space. Their proposed role is stable intercellular carriers of proteins and RNAs, predominantly micro‐RNA, from secreted to recipient cells. Upon uptake by the recipient cells, EVs can significantly modulate their biological functions. In the present study, using in vivo and in vitro models, we demonstrate that hepatocyte proliferation and liver regeneration are regulated by EVs secreted by hepatocytes into the bloodstream. This regulation occurs through a negative feedback mechanism, which explains the precise regeneration of liver tissue after massive damage. We also demonstrate that an essential component of this mechanism is RNA carried by hepatocyte‐derived EVs. Our findings open up a new and unexplored area of liver biology regarding the mechanisms involved in the precise regulation of liver regeneration after a massive tissue loss or injury. Further study of this mechanism will have a great influence on the development of new approaches to liver transplantation, various liver pathologies, and hepatic tumors.
Outcomes and validity of risk stratification tools for endoscopic submucosal dissection of early gastric cancer in Western Australia
Authors: Judge Ciaran , Halder Abir , Pateria Puraskar , Khor Tzeng , Muwanwella Niroshan , Chin Marcus , Ragunath Krish
Published: November 2024

Background and Aim

Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) has become the treatment of choice for many superficial gastric neoplasms. Clinical outcomes are increasingly comparable between Japanese and Western series; however, data are lacking on the validity of risk stratification tools in Western cohorts. We aimed to evaluate clinical outcomes, explore risk stratification, and compare our data with published Western series.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective, observational cohort study in a single tertiary referral center over a 13‐year period. Primary outcomes were rates of en bloc, complete (R0) and curative resection. Secondary outcomes included adverse events, recurrence, metachronous lesions, eCura grades, and ESGE criteria. A comparative analysis was performed with existing published series from Western centers.

Results

Totally 112 patients were included in the study cohort. 50.9% were male, 87.5% Caucasian, and median age was 75.5 years (IQR 14.3 years). Lesions were predominantly antral (36.6%) or body (35.7%); median size 20 mm (IQR 15 mm). Rates of en bloc, R0 resection, and curative resection were 96.4%, 89.3%, and 78.6% (identical between eCura and ESGE), respectively. Adverse events occurred in 5.8%, recurrence in 0%, and metachronous lesions in 9.9%. Our data compared favorably with a review existing Western series, which illustrates increasing adoption of ESD and stable outcomes over time.

Conclusion

ESD represents a safe and effective method of treatment for gastric neoplasia in the Western setting. This study highlights the potential for excellent outcomes in a single center with a heterogeneous patient cohort and supports the use of eCura in guiding post procedural management.
Immediate improvement in patient care: Auditing adherence to the British Society for Haematology guidelines on screening and management of the long‐term consequences of multiple myeloma and treatment
Authors: Sweeney Kerrie , Niblock Aaron , Greenfield Diana , Snowden John
Published: November 2024

Advances in myeloma have resulted in improved prognosis for patients. However complications of the disease and treatment, pose a risk of specific long‐term consequences. An audit tool was adapted to assess adherence to the British Society for Haematology guidelines for screening and management of long‐term myeloma consequences. Thereafter a screening checklist was developed to prompt the implementation of guideline recommendations, followed by a re‐audit evaluating the effectiveness of the checklist.

Good baseline practice was identified relating to vaccinations, herpes prophylaxis, dental assessment, bisphosphonates, calcium/ vitamin D supplementation and holistic needs assessments. However gaps in practice included monitoring of lipids, HBA1C, NT‐pro‐BNP/ BNP, BMI, calcium/ vitamin D and parathyroid hormone in kidney disease, endocrine screening and geriatric assessments. Re‐audit demonstrated that geriatric assessment remains a gap in practice, however other standards now scored between 80 to 100% compliance, highlighting the benefits of a screening checklist, to increase adherence to recommendations.
Turtle Girdles: Comparing the Relationships Between Environment and Behavior on Forelimb Function in Loggerhead Sea Turtles (Caretta caretta) and River Cooters (Pseudemys concinna)
Authors: Mayerl Christopher J. , Capano John G. , MME Noraly van Meer , Weller Hannah I. , Kaczmarek Elska B. , Chadam Maria , Blob Richard W. , Brainerd Elizabeth L. , Wyneken Jeanette
Published: November 2024

Locomotion in water and on land impose dramatically different demands, yet many animals successfully move in both environments. Most turtle species perform both aquatic and terrestrial locomotion but vary in how they use their limbs. Freshwater turtles use anteroposterior movements of the limbs during walking and swimming with contralateral fore‐ and hindlimbs moving in synchrony. In contrast, sea turtles swim primarily with “powerstroke” movements, characterized by synchronous forelimb motions while the hindlimbs act as rudders. High‐speed video has been used to study powerstroking, but pectoral girdle movements and long‐axis rotation (LAR) of the humerus are likely both key components to turtle locomotor function and cannot be quantified from external video. Here, we used XROMM to measure pectoral girdle and humeral movements in a sea turtle (loggerhead, Caretta caretta) compared to the freshwater river cooter (Pseudemys concinna) during terrestrial and aquatic locomotion. The largest difference among species was in yaw of the pectoral girdle during swimming, with loggerheads showing almost no yaw during powerstroking whereas pectoral girdle yaw in the cooter during rowing was over 30°. The magnitude of humeral LAR was greatest during loggerhead powerstroking and the temporal pattern of supination and pronation was opposite from that of cooters. We hypothesize that these kinematic differences are driven by differences in how the limbs are used to power propulsion. Rotations at the glenoid drive the overall patterns of movement in freshwater turtles, whereas glenohumeral LAR in loggerheads is used to direct the position and orientation of the elbow, which is the joint that determines the orientation of the thrust‐generating structure (the flipper) in loggerheads.
A High Power Density Ku‐Band GaN Power Amplifier Based on Device‐Level Thermal Analysis
Authors: Zhou Jiuding , Yi Chupeng , Liu Wenliang , Lu Yang , Ma Xiaohua , Zhao Yuanfu , Hao Yue
Published: November 2024

This paper introduces a new design method for a high‐power density GaN MMIC amplifier operating in the Ku‐band. A thermal model to investigate the thermal distribution of power amplifiers is proposed to achieve optimal performance in terms of power density, chip size, and channel temperature. The thermal distribution and channel temperature of a single device, an eight‐way parallel device combination, and the entire PA layout are obtained by finite element simulation. The thermal coupling effects of high‐power MMICs are analyzed in detail. The thermal resistances are extracted from the simulation to design a Ku‐band amplifier. Measurement results demonstrate that the designed amplifier achieves 43.0–44.2 dBm output power and 22.7%–34.5% PAE at 28 V drain voltage with a 100 μs pulse width and 10% duty cycle within 12–18 GHz. The proposed design method enables the amplifier to have a compact layout of 10.88 mm2 and a power density between 1.84 and 2.42 W/mm. This design method can offer valuable insights for future development of high‐power MMIC amplifiers.
An Elevated Influence of the Low‐Latitude Drivers on the East Asian Winter Monsoon After Around 1990
Authors: Chen Bozhou , Fang Keyan , Mei Zepeng , Ou Tinghai , Zhou Feifei , Wu Hao , Zhao Zheng , Chen Deliang
Published: November 2024

Current East Asian winter monsoon (EAWM) indices effectively depict the associated high‐ and low‐latitude atmospheric circulations. However, the spatial dynamics of the winter coldness within the monsoon domain are not well adequately represented by EAWM indices. We introduce a novel approach to classify winter temperatures based on both their co‐variability and their mean values. We classified the EAWM domain into three distinct modes: northern (ranging from −27°C to −15°C), central (−14°C to 5°C), and southern (6°C to 27°C). The northern mode, characterised by intense coldness, correlates with a strengthened westerlies that traps Arctic cold air masses during the positive phase of the Arctic Oscillation (AO). In contrast, the southern mode is primarily influenced by low‐latitude oceanic and atmospheric patterns, particularly for near‐coast areas. The central mode, representing an interplay of both high and low‐latitude processes, encapsulates the comprehensive characteristics of the EAWM. Our analysis reveals a notable shift in the relationships among the northern, central, and southern modes around 1990. Prior to this year, the EAWM was predominantly influenced by northern atmospheric patterns, while there is a discernible increase in the influence of low‐latitude drivers afterwards. This shift may be linked to the significant warming in the western Pacific and Indian Oceans, underscoring the heightened role of low‐latitude drivers on the EAWM.
Metabolic syndrome and spatial disparities: The role of socioeconomic deprivation and medical resource availability in the Cijin district, Taiwan
Authors: Su Pei‐Hung , Tsai Jong‐Rung , Chang Wei‐Lun , Hsieh Hui‐Min
Published: November 2024

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a global health concern with spatial disparities, especially in disadvantaged neighborhoods. This study aimed to examine the association between area‐level socioeconomic deprivation, the availability of medical resources in disadvantaged areas such as the Cijin district, and the prevalence of MetS in Taiwan. We used two representative secondary cross‐sectional datasets, including physical examinations and lifestyle surveys from 2016 to 2020, sourced from the Taiwan Biobank and the Cijin District Adult Lifestyle and Health Survey. Our findings indicate that residing in the Cijin district, characterized by socioeconomic deprivation and limited medical resources, is associated with significantly higher odds of MetS (aOR = 1.45, 95% CI = 1.28–1.64, p <0.001). Additionally, living in areas with medium (aOR = 1.12, 95% CI = 1.07–1.17, p <0.001) and high area‐level socioeconomic deprivation indexes (aOR = 1.13, 95% CI = 1.01–1.25, p <0.001) is linked to a higher likelihood of MetS. Conversely, residing in high medical resource availability index areas is associated with a lower risk of MetS (aOR = 0.92, 95% CI = 0.86–0.99, p = 0.026). We found a link between socioeconomic deprivation and limited medical resources, especially in disadvantaged areas such as the Cijin district, contributing to a higher MetS risk. Residents in these areas often struggle to access healthcare and preventive care. Addressing these disparities requires comprehensive public health initiatives and targeted policy interventions to improve residents' well‐being.
Exposure, body size, and zooplankton overland dispersal capacity
Authors: Branstrator Donn K. , Smith Rebecca A.
Published: November 2024

The dormant life stages of freshwater zooplankton are generally resistant to environmental exposure, and this facilitates their overland dispersal. However, environmental exposure and overland dispersal are less well studied for the active life stages of freshwater zooplankton. To characterize empirically the longevity of active life stages out of water, survival time to air exposure was measured in the laboratory for seven cladoceran species using heartbeat cessation to signify survival time. Survival time increased with body dry weight with an allometric scaling exponent near 2/3 in both a single‐species model with Daphnia mendotae and a multispecies model with five bivalved species that included Bosmina longirostris, Acroperus harpae, Ceriodaphnia dubia, D. mendotae, and Daphnia magna. The 2/3 scaling exponent is consistent with Euclidean geometry and points to water loss across the surface of a spherical body as the cause. Survival time of a 6th species, Holopedium gibberum, was 618% longer than predictions based on the multispecies model, likely due to its gelatinous mantle. Survival time of a 7th species, Bythotrephes cederströmii, was 58–83% shorter than predictions based on the multispecies model, likely due to its lack of a bivalve carapace. The longest survival time of an individual was 225.4 min (H. gibberum). Results suggest that at landscape scales, body size could be a proxy for the geographic extent of overland dispersal capacity of the active life stage.
Effect of Surface Pretreatments on the Formation of Zr‐Based Conversion Layers on Zn–Al–Mg Alloy‐Coated Steel
Authors: Ponomareva Maria , Duchoslav Jiri , Stifter David , Kogler Matthias , Miano Daniela , Akbari Elahe , Bleij Arie , Luckeneder Gerald , Singewald Tanja , Valtiner Markus
Published: November 2024

Zr‐based conversion coatings represent an environmentally conscious alternative to traditional phosphating and chromating in the automotive industry. In this study, we employ XPS and LEIS to investigate the formation of Zr‐conversion layers on Zn–Mg–Al alloy after alkaline and acidic model pretreatments. On alkaline pretreated surfaces, a Zr‐oxide/oxyfluoride layer and an underlying Mg–Al–fluoride layer are formed, whereas acidic pretreatment results in only an oxidic layer. The thickness of the Zr‐layer depends on pretreatment pH and immersion time. Acidic treatment achieves an approximately 23 nm‐thick Zr‐oxide/oxyfluoride layer after 1 min, while prolonged treatment increases the thickness of the oxidic layer for strong alkaline and acidic conditions. Mild alkaline pretreatments, however, do not benefit from extended immersion. F‐induced corrosion pits are observed after mild alkaline treatment. The strong alkaline pretreatment proved to be the most efficient in creating a double‐layered Zr‐conversion coating with increased oxidic layer thickness over time.
Random graph coloring and the instability
Authors: Tsuboi Akito
Published: November 2024

This paper explores the coloring problem, focusing on the existence of uniformly colored substructures. The study primarily examines random graphs with edge coloring and their generic substructures. The key finding is that the absence of a monochromatic generic substructure corresponds to increased instability, meaning that the colored random graph hereditarily possesses the strict order property.
Development of an Ionic Conductive Elastomer from the Photocopolymerization of a Ternary Polymerizable Deep Eutectic Solvent for Human Motions Sensing
Authors: Qian Zhengyang , Pan Chenlin , Chen Hao , Zhang Mingzu , He Jinlin , Ni Peihong
Published: November 2024

Polymerizable deep eutectic solvents (PDES) represent a novel class of ionic liquids characterized by the presence of polymerizable groups in their hydrogen‐bond donor or acceptor components. Within the realm of flexible electronics, PDES is emerged as a promising material for the fabrication of sensors that exhibit both flexibility and stretchability. This research employs the UV‐initiated photocopolymerization of a ternary PDES composed of choline chloride (ChCl), 2‐hydroxyethyl acrylate (HEA), and itaconic acid (IA), to synthesize an ionic conductive elastomer (ICE) that boasts desirable comprehensive performances, which can be controlled by meticulously adjusting the ratios of these components. The fabrication process is streamlined and efficient, utilizing cost‐effective and eco‐friendly materials. This elastomer exhibits favorable ionic conductivity (1.70 × 10−2–5.45 × 10−2 S m−1), mechanical strength (0.48–1.21 MPa stress at break, 395–701% elongation at break), adhesion capacity (49–120 kPa adhesion strength), and sensing sensitivity toward human motions.
Structural modification of high carbon Co−Cr−Mo alloy via chemical etching to enhance hydroxyapatite coating performance
Authors: Hassan M. A. , Daud R. , Tomadi S. H.
Published: November 2024

Numerous papers have been reported on surface treatment of metallic implant to facilitate positive interaction between the implant and hard tissue interface. In this paper, surface treatment such as chemical etching was done on the biomedical grade cobalt‐based alloy prior to hydroxyapatite coating deposition to enhance its biocompatibility. The objective is to investigate which temperature possesses the positive effect in adhesion strength of hydroxyapatite coating without detrimental the surface hardness. Observation showed that acid etched at the highest temperature (80 °C) has successfully roughen the substrate surface from 0.168 μm ±0.1 μm to 1.383 μm ±0.2 μm. Vickers hardness measurement on surface treated at 80 °C exhibit an increment of surface hardness which is about 39 % compared to surface treated at lower temperature. The highest thickness of hydroxyapatite coating layer (~57 μm) was evidently formed on the substrate etched at 80 °C with minimal cracks and no delamination. This phenomenon happened due to chemical reaction were rigorously attack on the substrate surface have provide more micro‐pits, pores and deeper craters that trap more efficiently of hydroxyapatite particles for thicker and dense coating formation. It is worth to note that too long acid soaking will also detrimental the material properties.
Polysaccharides from Cordyceps cicadae Ameliorate Reproductive Impairments in Male Mouse through the Hypothalamic‐Pituitary‐Testicular Axis
Authors: Wu Fen , Wang Meilin , Chen Xiaoyue , Zhang Dongchen , Peng Wei , Hu Xinyi , Xu Haoran , Zhang WenNa , Yan Chao , Lu Yongming , Sun Min , Chen Yan , Chen Lei
Published: November 2024

Scope

Cordyceps cicadae polysaccharides have received attention due to their potential in treating hyperglycemia and enhancing renal function. The beneficial effect of the purified C. cicadae polysaccharides fraction (CCP‐1) on the reproductive impairments and spermatogenesis dysfunction of immunocompromised mice is unavailable and is studied herein.

Methods and results

The study establishes a GC‐1 spg cell apoptosis model induced by TNF‐α+SM‐164 (TS) and male mouse reproductive injury model induced by cyclophosphamide (CTX), and then intervened by CCP‐1. CCP‐1 improves the viability of GC‐1 spg cell and inhibits cells apoptosis induced by TS in vitro. CCP‐1 enhances sperm quality and spermatogenesis function, as well as ameliorating the histological lesions in the hypothalamus, testicular, and kidney. CCP‐1 elevates gonadotropin‐releasing hormone (GnRH) level that secreted by the hypothalamus, and increases the levels of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteizing hormone (LH) in the anterior pituitary stimulated by GnRH, and promotes the secretion of testosterone (T) by testis. Moreover, CCP‐1 could protect the reproductive system by activating reproductive regulatory pathway such as SCF/C‐kit pathway and inhibiting apoptotic signaling pathway such as Bax/Caspase‐3 pathway.

Conclusion

These results manifest that CCP‐1 could serve as a natural promising reproductive system protective supplement for ameliorating CTX biotoxicity.
Optimizing spot‐scanning proton arc therapy with a novel spot sparsity approach
Authors: Fan Qingkun , Zhao Lewei , Li Xiaoqiang , Qian Yujia , Dao Riao , Hu Jie , Zhang Sheng , Yang Kunyu , Lu Xiliang , Yang Zhijian , Ding Xuanfeng , Dai Shuyang , Liu Gang
Published: November 2024

Background

One of the main challenges of utilizing spot‐scanning proton arc therapy (SPArc) in routine clinics is treatment delivery efficiency. Spot reduction, which relies on spot sparsity optimization (SSO), is crucial for achieving high delivery efficiency in SPArc.

Purpose

This study aims to develop a novel SSO approach based on the alternating directions method of multipliers (ADMM) for SPArc to achieve high treatment delivery efficiency and maintain optimal dosimetric plan quality.

Methods

In this study, SSO for SPArc is based on the least‐square dose fidelity term with L0‐norm regularization. The novel optimization approach is based on the ADMM framework, in which the minimum monitor unit constraint was considered to improve the plan quality. A state‐of‐the‐art SSO method, the primal‐dual active set with continuation (PDASC) algorithm published previously, was utilized as a benchmark. Two SPArc plan groups with the same beam assignment and clinical constraint were generated, in which the former group was SPArc plan with SSO utilizing ADMM, denoted as , and the later group was SPArc with SSO utilizing PDASC, denoted as . Nine clinical cases included five different cancer sites (brain, lung, liver, prostate, and head&neck cancer) were used. The SSO method's performance was evaluated in terms of spot sparsity level (the number of zero‐valued elements divided by the total number of elements), beam delivery time, dosimetric plan quality, and plan robustness.

Results

Compared to the plan, the plan exhibits superior sparsity and higher delivery efficiency while maintaining good plan quality.

Conclusions

This study introduces a novel spot sparsity optimization approach using the ADMM framework to improve the delivery efficiency of SPArc. Compared to the existing state‐of‐the‐art SSO method, such an approach could further enhance delivery efficiency while maintaining good plan quality, which could promote the implementation of SPArc in the clinic's.
Light‐Based Desalination of Water Using Polypyrrole‐Coated Fabrics
Authors: Sakabe Ryuga , Matsui Kanade , Funatsu Takahiro , Hirai Tomoyasu , Nakamura Yoshinobu , Fujii Syuji
Published: November 2024

Fabrics consisting of cotton‐core/polypyrrole (PPy)‐sheath fibers (cotton/PPy fabrics) are synthesized by aqueous chemical oxidative seeded polymerization of pyrrole and are utilized as a solar evaporation device. Scanning electron microscopy studies and elemental microanalyses reveal the thickness of the PPy sheath increases from a few tens nm to ≈200 nm with an increase of pyrrole monomer concentration in the polymerization system. The temperature of cotton/PPy fabrics increases upon irradiation with artificial sunlight to ≈33–45 °C in the dry state, due to light‐to‐heat photothermal conversion by the PPy component. Thanks to the photothermal property of the fabrics, water impregnated within the cotton/PPy fabrics can evaporate efficiently under the irradiation of artificial sunlight. Light‐induced water evaporation experiment using an artificial seawater confirms that ionic concentrations drastically decreases, indicating successful desalination.
The Enigma of the Motor Nerve Conduction Study
Authors: Nandedkar Sanjeev D. , Stålberg Erik V. , Barkhaus Paul E.
Published: November 2024

Background

In motor nerve conduction studies (MNCS), proximal stimulation should give a longer duration and lower amplitude compound muscle action potential (CMAP) due to higher temporal dispersion. Yet the CMAP waveforms at the distal and proximal stimulation sites appear remarkably similar. The objective of this study was to confirm this anomaly and investigate its possible cause by studying the median and ulnar nerves.

Methods

Recordings from 50 subjects with normal electrodiagnostic studies were reviewed. The conduction velocity (CV) was measured using different points on the negative phase of the CMAP including its peak and baseline crossing. Collision studies were performed in three healthy subjects to measure the dispersion when nerve action potentials (APs) propagated from elbow to wrist.

Results

CV was relatively unaffected by the measurement point on the CMAP. The CMAP duration with elbow stimulation increased minimally compared to wrist stimulation. This was inconsistent with the dispersion of the AP from wrist to elbow measured in collision studies.

Discussion

The insignificant change in the CMAP in spite of axon AP dispersion is an enigma. We hypothesize that the terminal conduction time (TCT) (i.e., conduction in terminal axon branches, neuromuscular transmission, etc.) is independent of axon CV, represents a significant portion of the latency, masks AP dispersion, and reduces CMAP dispersion. This yields similar CMAPs with distal and proximal stimulation. The onset latency at the distal stimulation site does not depend on CV. Thus, onset latency and CV may not reflect the conduction properties of the fastest conducting axons.
Stress Field and Crack Pattern Interpretation by Deep Learning in a 2D Solid
Authors: Chou Daniel , Arson Chloé
Published: November 2024

A nonlinear variational auto‐encoder (NLVAE) is developed to reconstruct the plane strain stress field in a solid with embedded cracks subjected to uniaxial tension, uniaxial compression, and shear loading paths. Latent features are sampled from a skew‐normal distribution, which allows encoding marked variations of the features of the stress field across the load steps. The NLVAE is trained and tested based upon stress maps generated with the finite element method (FEM) with cohesive zone elements (CZEs). The NLVAE successfully captures stress concentrations that develop across the loading steps as a result of crack propagation, especially when enhanced disentanglement is emphasized during training. Some latent variables consistently emerge as significant across various microstructure descriptors and loading paths. Correlations observed between the evolution of fabric descriptors and that of their significant stress latent features indicate that the NLVAE can capture important microstructure transitions during the loading process. Crack connectivity, crack eccentricity, and the distribution of zones of highly connected opened cracks versus zones with no cracks are the fabric descriptors that best explain the sequences of latent features that are the most important for the reconstruction of the stress field. Notably, the distributional shape, tail behavior, and symmetry of microstructure descriptor distributions have more influence on the stress field than basic measures of central tendency and spread.
What Determines Public Funding for Elementary Education in India? Evidence From Before and After a Policy Change
Authors: Hoque Nurzamal , Mahanta Ratul
Published: November 2024

Keeping to the increased emphasis on better educational quality across India as a tool of nation‐ building strategy, this study attempts to integrate demand components in analyzing the determinants of public spending for elementary education across states in India from 2005 to 2016. The study finds that the income (per capita) elasticity of per student government expenditure is higher in post‐reform period. The state government's share of income devoted to elementary education remains roughly constant. Applying a correlated random effect approach to linear balanced panel data, this paper concludes that over time, a major determinant of growth of per student government expenditure is the growth of income per capita. Household demand for education, which is positively correlated with states' levels of development, influences public funding for education across states. The results will be important for analyzing general equilibrium models where the government aims to fulfill household demand.
Investigation on the Low‐Frequency Acoustic Performance of Polymer Matrix Composite With Metallic Hollow Spheres Under Different Acoustic Stack Structures
Authors: Guo Chunhuan , Sun Peng , Shao Shuaiqi , Yu Tianmiao , Jiang Fengchun , Li Yanchun , Cui Xianghong , Li Junqing
Published: November 2024

In this study, various polymer matrix composites (melamine and flexible polyurethane) combined with 316 L stainless steel hollow spheres were prepared using the casting method. The acoustic properties of the fabricated materials were evaluated under low‐frequency conditions (100–1700 Hz) using an impedance tube. The results indicate that sound absorption and insulation performance are significantly influenced by the incident surface material within this frequency range. Notably, sound waves entering through the polyurethane stainless steel hollow sphere surface yield optimal absorption performance, achieving a maximum sound absorption coefficient of 0.74 at 400 Hz. Conversely, the melamine foam surface provides the best sound absorption at higher frequencies within this range, reaching a coefficient of 0.43 at 1700 Hz. The findings highlight the effective sound absorption and insulation capabilities of the composite materials.
The Ecosystem of Middle School Math Achievement: Intersections of Student Demographic, Parent, and School Factors
Authors: Hall Garret J. , Low Sabina , Smolkowski Keith , Garbacz Andy
Published: November 2024

Ecological factors, such as family involvement and school context, are important to consider in understanding middle schoolers’ math development. In this study, we examined the relations of middle school student‐reported parental monitoring and school climate as well as school‐averaged teacher reports of school organizational health (OH) to students’ math growth from grades 6–8. We also examined whether student‐reported race and ethnicity and perceived financial security moderated the relations of climate, monitoring, and OH to math growth and achievement. Participants were 12,821 middle school students and their teachers in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States. Our findings indicate that students who reported more parental monitoring in Grade 6 had detectably higher math scores in Grade 8, but monitoring did not relate to math growth, nor did student‐reported perceptions of school climate in Grade 6. We observed that OH in earlier middle school predicted math growth through Grade 8. We did not find evidence of differential relations of these variables to math achievement level or growth across students’ self‐reported race and ethnicity and perceived financial security. We discuss contributions of these findings to research and practice as well as limitations and future directions.
Exploring Risk Factors Associated With Intensive Care Unit Admission in a Retrospective Cohort of 631 Children With Bronchiolitis
Authors: Guarnieri Valentina , Palmas Giordano , Trapani Sandra , Mollo Antonella , Macucci Chiara , Gambini Irene , Mottola Valentina , Rubino Chiara , Moriondo Maria , Nieddu Francesco , Ricci Silvia , Azzari Chiara , Indolfi Giuseppe
Published: November 2024

Aim

Examine the trends and epidemiological features of acute hospitalized bronchiolitis cases among children aged 28 days to 2 years, both before and after the COVID‐19 pandemic. Furthermore, evaluate their need for intensive care unit (ICU) admission and identify primary risk factors associated with severe bronchiolitis.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted on the medical records of paediatric patients admitted to Meyer Children's Hospital in Florence (Italy) from September 2019 to March 2023, with the diagnosis of bronchiolitis.

Results

Between 2019 and 2023, bronchiolitis hospitalizations grew by 76%, going from 131 to 230 cases, after the historical minimum of 14 cases in the 2020–2021 season. Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection emerged as the predominant etiological agent, contributing to 76% of hospitalizations in both 2021–2022 and 2022–2023 seasons. Coinfection cases increased fivefold from 2019 to 2023, accounting for 23% of hospitalizations in 2022–2023. In addition, the ICU admission rate increased from 13% in 2019–2020 to 31% of bronchiolitis hospitalizations in 2022–2023. Univariate and multivariate analysis data show that infants below 2 months of age, preterm births, comorbidities and RSV infections were correlated with a higher risk for ICU admission.

Conclusion

The growing trend in ICU admissions for acute bronchiolitis in hospitalized children represents a substantial health challenge. Addressing the bronchiolitis epidemic necessitates a strategic focus on RSV prevention through interventions such as vaccines and monoclonal antibodies. Urgent implementation of preventive initiatives, together with continuous surveillance and the establishment of national databases, is imperative and cannot be further deferred.
Process safety in bioenergy with carbon capture and storage systems (BECCS)
Authors: Ogle Russell A. , Dee Sean J. , Mastalski Isaac
Published: November 2024

In response to the climate crisis, the United States has embarked on an ambitious program to achieve 100% carbon‐free electricity generation by 2035 and net‐zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. The implementation of bioenergy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS) systems is an essential component of that strategy. BECCS is broadly defined as the utilization of biomass energy (from the processing of solids, liquids, or vapors) with the capture of carbon dioxide and subsequent permanent storage in a deep geological formation. There are numerous potential technologies and flowsheets for implementing BECCS, and the supply chains rely upon support from the agricultural, forestry, and solid waste industries. Inherent in BECCS systems are the hazards associated with combustible dusts, spontaneous ignition and smoldering of combustible solids, flammable liquids, flammable vapors and gases, toxic gases, and more. For BECCS to be deployed commercially across the United States, it is imperative that process safety risks are controlled. A risk‐based process safety (RBPS) program can help manage the risks of a BECCS facility and minimize process safety incidents. In this paper, we present two representative bioenergy technologies as mini‐case studies to illustrate the range of process hazards encountered. Process safety strategies required by regulation are briefly reviewed and potential gaps are identified. We then demonstrate how RBPS can be implemented in a practical and effective manner to fill the gaps.
Cry1 resistance in a CRISPR/Cas9‐mediated HaCad1 gene knockout strain of the Australian cotton bollworm Helicoverpa armigera conferta (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)
Authors: Fang Cao (Grace) , James Bill , Williams Michelle , Bachler Andy , Tay Wee Tek , Walsh Tom , Frese Michael
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND

Helicoverpa armigera is a highly polyphagous species that causes huge losses to agricultural and horticultural crops worldwide. In the cotton industry, H. armigera, including the Australian subspecies Helicoverpa armigera conferta, is largely managed using genetically modified crops that express insecticidal toxins, such as Cry1Ac. Resistance to Cry1 proteins occurs and, in some cases, is mediated by changes to HaCad1, a gene that encodes the midgut protein cadherin. Around the world, numerous resistance‐associated polymorphisms have been identified in the HaCad1 gene of H. armigera, but Cry1Ac resistance is rare in the Australian subspecies. We used CRISPR/Cas9 to disrupt the cadherin gene in H. armigera conferta and characterised the resulting phenotype with bioassays and transcriptomics.

RESULTS

Compared to the parental strain, the newly generated HaCad1 knockout strain is 44‐fold and 16‐fold more resistant to Cry1Ac and Cry1A.105, respectively, while wild‐type and knockout insects were equally insensitive to Cry1F.

CONCLUSION

The disruption of the HaCad1 gene causes Cry1Ac resistance in Australian H. armigera conferta. However, Cry1Ac resistance remains rare in Australian field populations suggesting that Australia's approach to pest management in cotton has prevented widespread Cry1Ac resistance. © 2024 CSIRO. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Shifts in national entrepreneurial culture: The promise of linguistic cultural artifacts and machine learning analysis
Authors: Kyprianou Christina , Vedula Siddharth , Pu Wenxi , Fitza Markus
Published: November 2024

Research Summary

We develop a dynamic view of national entrepreneurial culture by examining the linguistic evolution of media‐produced cultural artifacts—entrepreneurship‐related newspaper articles. Applying machine learning to 690,088 articles from 103 newspapers across the United States between 1996 and 2016, we identify a growing positivity bias toward entrepreneurship at the national level evidenced by rising emotional tone and declining analytical thinking. This bias varies by topic, with “entrepreneurial aspirations and journeys” driving the trend. Our analyses also suggest this bias may encourage the creation of new ventures but limit venture growth potential. We highlight theoretical and methodological contributions to research on national entrepreneurial culture and identify promising avenues for future research.

Managerial Summary

We examine how a country's cultural attitudes toward entrepreneurship change over time by studying relevant newspaper articles. We also consider if any changes in such attitudes may have implications for the quantity and quality of a country's new ventures. After analyzing 690,088 articles from 103 newspapers across the United States between 1996 and 2016, we find a growing positivity bias toward entrepreneurship evidenced by increasing rates of positive tone and decreasing rates of analytical thinking. This bias is largest when media articles discuss entrepreneurial aspirations and journeys. Our analyses also suggest this bias may facilitate the creation of new ventures but limit their growth potential. These findings have implications for understanding and measuring national entrepreneurial culture, and create opportunities for future research.
A Bayesian Approach to Modeling Variance of Intensive Longitudinal Biomarker Data as a Predictor of Health Outcomes
Authors: Yu Mingyan , Wu Zhenke , Hicken Margaret , Elliott Michael R.
Published: November 2024

Intensive longitudinal biomarker data are increasingly common in scientific studies that seek temporally granular understanding of the role of behavioral and physiological factors in relation to outcomes of interest. Intensive longitudinal biomarker data, such as those obtained from wearable devices, are often obtained at a high frequency typically resulting in several hundred to thousand observations per individual measured over minutes, hours, or days. Often in longitudinal studies, the primary focus is on relating the means of biomarker trajectories to an outcome, and the variances are treated as nuisance parameters, although they may also be informative for the outcomes. In this paper, we propose a Bayesian hierarchical model to jointly model a cross‐sectional outcome and the intensive longitudinal biomarkers. To model the variability of biomarkers and deal with the high intensity of data, we develop subject‐level cubic B‐splines and allow the sharing of information across individuals for both the residual variability and the random effects variability. Then different levels of variability are extracted and incorporated into an outcome submodel for inferential and predictive purposes. We demonstrate the utility of the proposed model via an application involving bio‐monitoring of hertz‐level heart rate information from a study on social stress.
Neurobiological and Anti‐Inflammatory Effects of a Deep Diaphragmatic Breathing Technique Based on Neofunctional Psychotherapy: A Pilot RCT
Authors: Maniaci Giuseppe , Daino Marco , Iapichino Maria , Giammanco Alessandra , Taormina Calogero , Bonura Giuseppina , Sardella Zaira , Carolla Giuseppe , Cammareri Patrizia , Sberna Emanuele , Clesi Maria Francesca , Ferraro Laura , Gambino Caterina Maria , Ciaccio Marcello , Rispoli Luciano , La Cascia Caterina , La Barbera Daniele , Quattrone Diego
Published: November 2024

We examined the feasibility of using the neofunctional deep breathing (NDB) technique to reduce the allostatic load following the Trier Social Stress Test (TSST). Forty‐four healthy subjects were randomised into experimental and control groups. Following the TSST procedure, participants underwent either a single session of NDB or an attention control intervention. The Procomp Infinity Biofeedback system measured breath per minute (BPM), respiratory amplitude, HRV linear domains, skin conductance, and trapezius muscle electromyographic activity. Cortisol and cytokine salivary concentrations, perceived stress, and anxiety levels were also assessed. These parameters were combined into an allostatic load index (ALI) to measure the intervention's effect. This pilot RCT demonstrated the feasibility of the study design and practicality of the intervention. The NDB group showed reduced ALI, increased respiratory abdominal amplitude, decreased BPM, increased HRV indicating parasympathetic activation, and decreased cortisol and inflammatory cytokines. This study highlighted the feasibility of testing the NDB technique in reducing allostatic load through a neurobiological and anti‐inflammatory response after exposure to psychosocial stress. This protocol can represent a non‐invasive therapeutic adjutant in disorders related to a dysregulation of the HPA axis or to an inflammatory state.

Trial Registration: NCT04102813
A Multifunctional Na2Se/Zn‐Mn Skeleton Enables Processable and Highly Reversible Sodium Metal Anode
Authors: Aman Samia , Iqbal Sikandar , Chishti Aadil Nabi , Ali Moazzam , Ali Muhammad , Hussain Hamid , Huang Huiqin , Lin Yechao , Yousaf Muhammad , Jiang Yinzhu
Published: November 2024

The recent high‐energy density sodium (Na) metal batteries (SMBs) are restricted by their processability, lifetime, and safety. These issues can be addressed by controlling the reactions at the Na metal by modifying the Na metal anode (SMA) with the sodiophilic hosts. Herein, a multifunctional Na2Se/Zn‐Mn skeleton is introduced for SMA and fabricate a processable Na@Na2Se/Zn‐Mn composite using repeated cold rolling/folding approach through the spontaneous reaction between Na metal and ZnMnSe alloy. This unique intermetallic composite has Zn and Mn metal sites for uniform deposition of Na, while Na2Se generates a stable SEI for rapid Na+ ion transport. It offers outstanding sodiophilicity, high processability, excellent mechanical strength, and high ionic conductivity due to the synergistic effect of multi‐component, enabling stable Na plating/stripping at high current densities and areal capacities. An optimized Na2Se/Zn‐Mn skeleton enables Na||Na symmetric cells to attain a high critical current density of 5.0 mA cm−2 at 5.0 mAh cm−2 with an extended lifespan of 9000 h at 1.0 mA cm−2 at 1.0 mAh cm−2. Remarkably, when configured into a full cell with a Na3V2(PO4)3 cathode, the SMB displays an extended lifespan of 2000 cycles at 10 C and an impressive high‐rate capacity of ≈61.6 mAh g−¹ at 30 C.
Interfacing Complex Coacervates with Natural Cells
Authors: Meng He , Ji Yanglimin , Qiao Yan
Published: November 2024

Coacervates have been investigated as protocells or synthetic cells, as well as subcellular compartments for the creation of new materials, thus bridging the gap between living and non‐living systems in materials science, synthetic biology, and bioengineering. Given the design flexibility and simplicity of coacervates, along with the functionality and complexity of natural cells, the interfacing of complex coacervates with natural cells is considered significant for various biotechnological and biomedical applications. In this review, the fundamental mechanisms and underlying theories of coacervate systems are introduced. Recent efforts to interface coacervates with natural cells are summarized in three key scenarios: (i) the integration of coacervates with natural cell components for the living material assembly into protocells; (ii) communication between therapeutic synthetic cells and natural cells for drug delivery and cell repair; and (iii) the formation of intracellular condensates for metabolic regulation, followed by the regulation of their phase transitions for pathological elucidation. Finally, the potential of coacervate‐natural cell interfaces is discussed in the context of developing living/synthetic cell constructs, creating precise disease therapy strategies, and advancing programmable metabolic engineering networks.
Genome‐wide association of an organic naked barley diversity panel identified quantitative trait loci for disease resistance
Authors: Kunze Karl H. , Meints Brigid , Massman Chris , Gutiérrez Lucia , Hayes Patrick M. , Smith Kevin P. , Bergstrom Gary C. , Sorrells Mark E.
Published: November 2024

Foliar fungal diseases are a major limitation in organic naked barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) production. The lack of conventional fungicides in organic systems increases reliance on genetic resistance. We evaluated the severity of barley stripe rust (Puccinia striiformis f. sp. hordei Westend), leaf rust (Puccina hordei sp. hordei), spot blotch (Cochliobolus sativus, anamorph Bipolaris sorokiniana (S. Ito & Kurib.) Drechsler ex Dastur), and scald (Rhynchosporium commune Zaffarano, McDonald and Linde sp. nov) on a naked barley diversity panel of 350 genotypes grown in 13 environments to identify quantitative trait loci associated with disease resistance. Genome‐wide association analyses across and within environments found 10 marker trait associations for barley stripe rust, four marker trait associations for leaf rust, one marker trait association for scald, and five marker trait associations for spot blotch. Structure analysis identified six Ward groups based on genotypic diversity. Resistance to susceptible allele ratios were high for stripe rust and spot blotch, moderate for leaf rust, and low for scald. Combined phenotypic analysis values for each disease overlayed by a principal component analysis found distinct resistance and susceptibility patterns for barley stripe rust and scald. Most significant marker trait associations were previously identified in the literature, providing confirmation and potential new sources of disease resistance for genetic improvement of naked barley germplasm.