bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multiphase electroextraction of malachite green from surface water and its determination using digital imaging and chemometric tools
Authors: Viana Jaime dos Santos , Kubáň Pavel , Botelho Bruno Gonçalves , Orlando Ricardo M.
Published: May 2024

This study introduces a novel method for the quantification of malachite green (MG), a pervasive cationic dye, in surface water by synergizing multiphase electroextraction (MPEE) with digital image analysis (DIA) and partial least square discriminant analysis. Aimed at addressing the limitations of conventional DIA methods in terms of quantitation limits and selectivity, this study achieves a significant breakthrough in the preconcentration of MG using magnesium silicate as a novel sorbent. Demonstrating exceptional processing efficiency, the method allows for the analysis of 10 samples within 20 min, exhibiting remarkable sensitivity and specificity (over 0.95 and 0.90, respectively) across 156 samples in both training and test sets. Notably, the method detects MG at low concentrations (0.2 µg L−1) in complex matrices, highlighting its potential for broader application in environmental monitoring. This approach not only underscores the method's cost‐effectiveness and simplicity but also its precision, making it a valuable tool for the preliminary testing of MG in surface waters. This study underscores the synergy among MPEE, DIA, and chemometric tools, presenting a cost‐efficient and reliable alternative for the sensitive detection of water contaminants.
Experiment study on focusing pattern prediction of particles in asymmetric contraction–expansion array channel
Authors: Shi Xin , He Qing , Tan Wei , Lu Yuwen , Zhu Guorui
Published: May 2024

Contraction‐expansion array (CEA) microchannel is a typical structure applied on particle/cell manipulation. The prediction of the particle focusing pattern in CEA microchannel is worthwhile to be investigate deeply. Here, we demonstrated a virtual boundary method by flow field analysis and theoretical derivation. The calculating method of the virtual boundary location, related to the Reynolds number (Re) and the structure parameter RW, was proposed. Combining the approximate Poiseuille flow pattern based on the virtual boundary method with the simulation results of Dean flow, the main line pattern and the main/lateral lines pattern were predicted and validated in experiments. The transformation from the main line pattern to the main/lateral lines pattern can be facilitated by increasing Re, decreasing RW, and decreasing α. An empirical formula was derived to characterize the critical condition of the transformation. The virtual boundary method can provide a guidance for asymmetric CEA channel design and contribute to the widespread application of microfluidic particle focusing.
Acoustofluidic manipulation for submicron to nanoparticles
Authors: Wei Wei , Wang Zhaoxun , Wang Bingnan , He Xinyuan , Wang Yaping , Bai Yang , Yang Qingrui , Pang Wei , Duan Xuexin
Published: May 2024

Particles, ranging from submicron to nanometer scale, can be broadly categorized into biological and non‐biological types. Submicron‐to‐nanoscale bioparticles include various bacteria, viruses, liposomes, and exosomes. Non‐biological particles cover various inorganic, metallic, and carbon‐based particles. The effective manipulation of these submicron to nanoparticles, including their separation, sorting, enrichment, assembly, trapping, and transport, is a fundamental requirement for different applications. Acoustofluidics, owing to their distinct advantages, have emerged as a potent tool for nanoparticle manipulation over the past decade. Although recent literature reviews have encapsulated the evolution of acoustofluidic technology, there is a paucity of reports specifically addressing the acoustical manipulation of submicron to nanoparticles. This article endeavors to provide a comprehensive study of this topic, delving into the principles, apparatus, and merits of acoustofluidic manipulation of submicron to nanoparticles, and discussing the state‐of‐the‐art developments in this technology. The discourse commences with an introduction to the fundamental theory of acoustofluidic control and the forces involved in nanoparticle manipulation. Subsequently, the working mechanism of acoustofluidic manipulation of submicron to nanoparticles is dissected into two parts, dominated by the acoustic wave field and the acoustic streaming field. A critical analysis of the advantages and limitations of different acoustofluidic platforms in nanoparticles control is presented. The article concludes with a summary of the challenges acoustofluidics face in the realm of nanoparticle manipulation and analysis, and a forecast of future development prospects.
Nickel Disulfide (NiS2): A Sustainable Low‐Cost Electrode Material for High‐Performance Supercapacitors
Authors: Thomas Susmi Anna , Cherusseri Jayesh , Rajendran Deepthi N.
Published: May 2024

In the family of transition metal sulfides, nickel disulfide (NiS2) received significant attention in the recent past, particularly as an electrode‐active material for supercapacitors due to its high specific capacitance, high power density, long cyclic stability, and low cost. A detailed overview on the supercapacitor applications of NiS2 is lacking in the literature. In this review article, the unique features of NiS2 in terms of its various methods of synthesis, characterizations, and electrochemical performance evaluations are described. This review provides an in‐depth understanding on the unique properties of ultrathin nanostructured NiS2 such as structural properties, electronic properties, optical properties, and so on. Later, the various methods of synthesis including hydrothermal method, solvothermal method, solvent‐free approach, and so on are reviewed. Further, the strategies are discussed to improve the electrochemical performance of NiS2 by preparing hybrids or nanocomposites with other types of electrode‐active materials. The influence of electrode nanostructure and surface morphology on the charge storage is discussed with the help of specific examples. Furthermore, the potential challenges and future perspectives of NiS2 for commercial supercapacitors are examined. This review proclaims the development of novel approaches and strategies for the effective utilization of NiS2‐based electrodes for high‐performance low‐cost supercapacitors.
Differences in treatment trajectory following brief paediatric inpatient admissions for children and young people with eating disorders
Authors: El‐Salahi Shama , Anderson Ciorsdan , McDaid Alannah , Lunn Amy , Ralph Emily , Holliday Joanna
Published: May 2024

Objective

Little is known about factors associated with treatment trajectory following brief paediatric admissions for children and young people (CYP) admitted for medical complications of their eating disorder (ED). This project aimed to identify possible factors and ways to improve the usefulness of paediatric admissions.

Method

Retrospective NHS data was analysed to explore differences between paediatric admissions followed by community‐based care or inpatient psychiatric care. Twelve parents were interviewed to seek feedback about paediatric admissions.

Results

Patients who received subsequent inpatient psychiatric care were unwell for longer, had longer paediatric admissions and more crisis team input, were more likely to have had previous admissions, and had higher parent‐reported anxiety and depression. However, the groups did not significantly differ in ED severity. The interviews identified recommendations for improving paediatric admissions, which included improving understanding of EDs, enhancing communication channels, and providing psychological support to parents.

Conclusions

Factors linked with illness severity (but not illness severity itself) appear to be associated with the difference between CYP either returning to community‐based care or requiring more intensive psychiatric input. These factors may help clinicians understand who requires subsequent inpatient care, allowing clinicians to target more intensive support earlier and facilitate smoother transitions between services.
Exploring precision treatments in immune‐mediated inflammatory diseases: Harnessing the infinite potential of nucleic acid delivery
Authors: Xu Lingxiao , Shao Zhenxuan , Fang Xia , Xin Zengfeng , Zhao Shenzhi , Zhang Hongbo , Zhang Yu , Zheng Wenbiao , Yu Xiaohua , Zhang Zengjie , Sun Lingling
Published: May 2024

Immune‐mediated inflammatory diseases (IMIDs) impose an immeasurable burden on individuals and society. While the conventional use of immunosuppressants and disease‐modifying drugs has provided partial relief and control, their inevitable side effects and limited efficacy cast a shadow over finding a cure. Promising nucleic acid drugs have shown the potential to exert precise effects at the molecular level, with different classes of nucleic acids having regulatory functions through varying mechanisms. For the better delivery of nucleic acids, safe and effective viral vectors and non‐viral delivery systems (including liposomes, polymers, etc.) have been intensively explored. Herein, after describing a range of nucleic acid categories and vectors, we focus on the application of therapeutic nucleic acid delivery in various IMIDs, including rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, psoriasis, multiple sclerosis, asthma, ankylosing spondylitis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and uveitis. Molecules implicated in inflammation and immune dysregulation are abnormally expressed in a series of IMIDs, and their meticulous modulation through nucleic acid therapy results in varying degrees of remission and improvement of these diseases. By synthesizing findings centered on specific molecular targets, this review delivers a systematic elucidation and perspective towards advancing and utilization of nucleic acid therapeutics for managing IMIDs.
Impact of electrode arrangement and electrical connections on the power generation of ceramic membrane microbial fuel cell
Authors: Rojas Fernando A. , Hernández‐Benitez Carlos , Ramírez Víctor , Ieropoulous Ioannis , Godínez Luis A. , Robles Irma , Meza David B. , Rodríguez‐Valadez Francisco J
Published: May 2024

Some of the most popular technologies for wastewater sanitation, still face serious limitations related to high energy consumption requirements. In this context, microbial fuel cells (MFCs) constitute a promising approach since they do not require aeration and produce electricity at the same time. Limitations for these devices, however, are related to the cost of the constituents and the functionality of the arrangement. In this work, a semi‐cylindrical ceramic MFC was designed and constructed using a low‐cost commercial ceramic handcraft as a membrane, carbon felt, carbon cloth, and carbon cloth/activated carbon in different arrangements for the anode and cathode components. The best results were obtained using carbon felt as an anode and a cathodic zone built with carbon felt in which void regions were filled with activated carbon. This arrangement produced 85 mWm−2 for each cell. Evaluating the performance of the MFC in a modular system with eight cells using a different number of separations inside the module and different electrical connections, resulting in a 4‐compartment module that produced 90 mWm−2 with one single module and 95 mWm−2 with a serial arrangement of two modules.
Antagonistic actions of PAK1 and NF2/Merlin drive myelin membrane expansion in oligodendrocytes
Authors: Baudouin Lucas , Adès Noémie , Kanté Kadia , Bachelin Corinne , Hmidan Hatem , Deboux Cyrille , Panic Radmila , Ben Messaoud Rémy , Velut Yoan , Hamada Soumia , Pionneau Cédric , Duarte Kévin , Poëa‐Guyon Sandrine , Barnier Jean‐Vianney , Nait Oumesmar Brahim , Bouslama‐Oueghlani Lamia
Published: May 2024

In the central nervous system, the formation of myelin by oligodendrocytes (OLs) relies on the switch from the polymerization of the actin cytoskeleton to its depolymerization. The molecular mechanisms that trigger this switch have yet to be elucidated. Here, we identified P21‐activated kinase 1 (PAK1) as a major regulator of actin depolymerization in OLs. Our results demonstrate that PAK1 accumulates in OLs in a kinase‐inhibited form, triggering actin disassembly and, consequently, myelin membrane expansion. Remarkably, proteomic analysis of PAK1 binding partners enabled the identification of NF2/Merlin as its endogenous inhibitor. Our findings indicate that Nf2 knockdown in OLs results in PAK1 activation, actin polymerization, and a reduction in OL myelin membrane expansion. This effect is rescued by treatment with a PAK1 inhibitor. We also provide evidence that the specific Pak1 loss‐of‐function in oligodendroglia stimulates the thickening of myelin sheaths in vivo. Overall, our data indicate that the antagonistic actions of PAK1 and NF2/Merlin on the actin cytoskeleton of the OLs are critical for proper myelin formation. These findings have broad mechanistic and therapeutic implications in demyelinating diseases and neurodevelopmental disorders.
Prognostic factors of tongue cancer in children and adolescents: A SEER population‐based study
Authors: Jiang Zhihua , Yao Xianming , Lou Yi , Feng Shaoguang
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This study aims to analyze the clinicopathological characteristics and survival outcomes of tongue cancer in the pediatric population, a topic with limited existing data, using a population‐based cohort.

Methods

Pediatric patients diagnosed with tongue cancer from 1975 to 2018 were identified from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database. Survival rates were assessed using Kaplan–Meier analysis. Univariate survival analysis was conducted with the log‐rank test, while multivariate analysis involved Cox proportional‐hazards regression to identify factors influencing overall survival (OS). A predictive nomogram was developed based on Cox regression findings.

Results

In total, 97 pediatric patients with tongue cancer were identified, with a median age at diagnosis of 15 years (range: 1–19 years). Tumors were classified as squamous cell carcinoma (45.4%), rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) (13.4%), and others (41.2%). Of the patients, squamous cell carcinoma was more common in older children, whereas rhabdomyosarcoma was more common in younger children. The Cox proportional hazard regression revealed that histology and surgery were significant independent predictors of overall survival. The chance of death increased with no surgery. Moreover, patients with squamous cell carcinoma or rhabdomyosarcoma have a poorer survival percentage than patients with other subtypes.

Conclusions

Tongue cancer in children is rare and associated with poor survival outcomes. This study highlights the significance of tumor histology and surgical intervention in determining overall survival, offering valuable insights for clinical decision‐making in pediatric tongue cancer.
Theoretical study of structure sensitivity on ceria‐supported single platinum atoms and its influence on carbon monoxide adsorption
Authors: Salichon Antoine , Salcedo Agustin , Michel Carine , Loffreda David
Published: May 2024

Density functional theory (DFT) calculations explore the stability of a single platinum atom on various flat, stepped, and defective ceria surfaces, in the context of single‐atom catalysts (SACs) for the water–gas shift (WGS) reaction. The adsorption properties and diffusion kinetics of the metal strongly depend on the support termination with large stability on metastable and stepped CeO2(100) and (210) surfaces where the diffusion of the platinum atom is hindered. At the opposite, the more stable CeO2(111) and (110) terminations weakly bind the platinum atom and can promote the growth of metallic clusters thanks to fast diffusion kinetics. The adsorption of carbon monoxide on the single platinum atom supported on the various ceria terminations is also sensitive to the surface structure. Carbon monoxide weakly binds to the single platinum atom supported on reduced CeO2(111) and (211) terminations. The desorption of the CO2 formed during the WGS reaction is thus facilitated on the latter terminations. A vibrational analysis underlines the significant changes in the calculated scaled anharmonic CO stretching frequency on these catalysts.
Probing the range of applicability of structure‐ and energy‐adjusted QM/MM link bonds III: QM/MM MD simulations of solid‐state systems at the example of layered carbon structures
Authors: Purtscher Felix R. S. , Hofer Thomas S.
Published: May 2024

The previously introduced workflow to achieve an energetically and structurally optimized description of frontier bonds in quantum mechanical/molecular mechanics (QM/MM)‐type applications was extended into the regime of computational material sciences at the example of a layered carbon model systems. Optimized QM/MM link bond parameters at HSEsol/6‐311G(d,p) and self‐consistent density functional tight binding (SCC‐DFTB) were derived for graphitic systems, enabling detailed investigation of specific structure motifs occurring in graphene‐derived structures quantum‐chemical calculations. Exemplary molecular dynamics (MD) simulations in the isochoric‐isothermic (NVT) ensemble were carried out to study the intercalation of lithium and the properties of the Stone–Thrower–Wales defect. The diffusivity of lithium as well as hydrogen and proton adsorption on a defective graphene surface served as additional example. The results of the QM/MM MD simulations provide detailed insight into the applicability of the employed link‐bond strategy when studying intercalation and adsorption properties of graphitic materials.
Experiences of junior dental faculty transitioning from clinician to educator
Authors: Wingrove Danielle P.
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Dental faculty enter academia, after a career in practice or directly from school, without any formal education training. Faculty development programs have been designed based on survey needs assessments, but not on in‐depth descriptions of junior faculty transition experiences. The purpose of this research project is to describe the transition experiences of dental faculty from clinician to educator within the last 5 years.

Methods

A qualitative multiple case study approach from an emic perspective was used. An emic approach is an analysis from the perspective of one who participates in the group being studied. Data were collected through semi‐structured interviews with 12 junior dental faculty. Thematic analysis identified common themes in the data through the lens of the social cognitive career theory.

Results

Three salient themes were extracted from the data: guidance, job satisfaction, and motivating factors. Guidance was the main theme with participants revealing their need for more formal preparation regarding teaching, formal mentorship, and career progression goals. Participants find academia highly rewarding, and a unique finding was that physical injury was a major factor to entering academia.

Conclusion

This study reveals that junior dental faculty members feel unprepared for their teaching role and highlights the benefits of mentorship in helping them develop their vocational goals and advance their careers. This study illuminates why clinicians choose to leave clinical practice, the preparation they receive, the areas in which they feel unprepared, and how they develop their teaching skills. These insights can help academic institutions better support their faculty and improve student learning outcomes.
Effectiveness of using concept mapping by dental students in the radiographic interpretation of jaw diseases
Authors: Gil Yoon Min , Lee Byung‐Do
Published: May 2024

Objectives

Interpretation of dental radiographs is a difficult process, particularly for inexperienced students. This study introduced concept mapping for dental students to help in the radiographic interpretation of common jaw lesions. We aimed to analyze the efficacy of the concept map (CM) in radiographic interpretation, with a discussion of the diagnostic reasoning dilemma.

Methods

This study included 39 dental students. After a 1‐h class for CM guidance and based on three group discussions and one‐on‐one feedback, the students completed and submitted CMs for three jaw diseases (ameloblastoma, odontogenic keratocyst, and simple bone cyst). All participants underwent a pretest and posttest of knowledge and diagnosis; all students but one completed an open‐ended questionnaire regarding the use of CMs.

Results

Concept mapping effectively improved diagnostic accuracy. The participants’ posttest scores were better than their pretest scores in both knowledge and diagnostic tests. Most of the students attempted radiographic interpretation through analytic reasoning. The time required for the students to draw a CM varied from student to student from 3–5 h to 1–3 days.

Conclusion

This study shows that CMs can improve the radiographic diagnostic ability of dental students by providing a framework for analytic reasoning. Continuous research is warranted to improve the effectiveness of CM in oral radiographic interpretation in the dental student's class.
A service‐learning framework to address accreditation standards: Self‐Assessment, communication skills, health literacy, and cultural competence
Authors: Mara Matthew , Zea Ana , Culler Corinna , Lituri Kathy , Henshaw Michelle
Published: May 2024

Objectives

Pre‐doctoral dental programs must provide opportunities for students to become proficient in self‐assessment, communication skills, health literacy, and cultural competence, essential for independent unsupervised practice. This study aimed to assess how student learning through a classroom education service‐learning program addresses the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) standards 2‐11 and 2‐17; specifically through the examination of self‐assessment, communication skills, health literacy, and cultural competence.

Methods

This 2022 retrospective mixed methods cohort study examined unstructured faculty comments on drafted lesson plans and structured evaluations of classroom education service‐learning rehearsal sessions. A random sample of faculty comments from three academic years, 2018, 2019, and 2020, were deidentified and analyzed by five researchers for emerging themes using NVivo. Quantitative data from rehearsal presentations were analyzed with descriptive statistics to assess the concordance of self and faculty feedback on specific evaluation criteria.

Results

Six major themes from faculty lesson plan feedback emerged: knowledge, professionalism, communication, presentation skills, cultural competence, and program logistics. Concordance between faculty feedback and student self‐assessment ranged from 83% to 92.4% across all evaluation criteria over the 3 years: spoke clearly and confidently at the right pace, provided accurate dental terminology and facts, used grade‐appropriate language, provided clear instructions to follow, appeared enthusiastic throughout the rehearsal presentation, and designed a well thought out lesson plan that will engage children for the entire presentation.

Conclusion

Findings support the classroom education service‐learning program as a framework to provide opportunities for student self‐assessment and feedback on communication skills, health literacy, and cultural competence aligned with CODA standards 2‐11 and 2‐17.
Integrating person‐centered care into dental education: An oral medicine perspective
Authors: Taylor Stuart , Truelove Edmond
Published: May 2024

Dental education is moving toward models of education and care that are person‐centered. The purpose of this article is to explore and describe the teaching and patient care model (the attending‐based model) used for the past 50 years in the oral medicine department at one dental education institution. This article briefly discusses how this teaching model promotes person‐centered care and the biopsychosocial model, while highlighting some of the barriers, benefits, and opportunities to wider adoption in dental education.
Decreased gray matter volume in the anterior cerebellar of attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder comorbid oppositional defiant disorder children with associated cerebellar‐cerebral hyperconnectivity: insights from a combined structural MRI and resting‐state fMRI study
Authors: Wang Xin , Guo Yan , Xu Jin , Xiao Yong , Fu Yigang
Published: May 2024

Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) are highly comorbid. Many prior investigations have found that ADHD relates to anatomical abnormalities in gray matter. The abnormal gray matter of ADHD comorbid ODD is still poorly understood. This study aimed to explore the effect of comorbid ODD on gray matter volume (GMV) and functional alterations in ADHD. All data were provided by the ADHD‐200 Preprocessed Repository, including 27 ADHD‐only children, 27 ADHD + ODD children, and 27 healthy controls aged 9–14 years. Voxel‐based morphometry (VBM) and functional connectivity (FC) of resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) were used to compare the difference in GMV and FC between ADHD + ODD, ADHD‐only, and healthy children. The results showed that ADHD children with comorbid ODD had a more significant reduction in cerebellar volume, mainly in the anterior regions of the cerebellum (Cerebellum_4_5). The Cerebellum_4_5 showed increased functional connectivity with multiple cortical regions. These brain regions include numerous executive functioning (EF) and brain default mode network (DMN) nodes. The GMV abnormalities and excessive connectivity between brain regions may further exacerbate the emotional and cognitive deficits associated with ADHD.
Attitudes of autistic adults toward genetic testing for autism
Authors: Gallion Tielle , Williams Zachary J. , Niarchou Maria , Duncan Laura , Hooker Gillian , Taylor Kelly A.
Published: May 2024

Genetic testing for autism has been a controversial topic within the autistic community. Opinions regarding the benefits, risks, and limitations of genetic testing often differ between autistic people, researchers, and healthcare providers. The present study sought to understand the beliefs, attitudes, and intentions to pursue genetic testing of autistic adults and compare perspectives of autistic people who have had genetic testing with those who have not. An international sample of 173 autistic adults (19 [11%] who had previously undergone autism‐related genetic testing) completed an online survey with questions assessing beliefs, attitudes, and intentions to pursue genetic testing. Beliefs and attitudes about genetic testing varied widely across the sample. Autistic individuals who had received prior genetic testing had much more positive beliefs about autism‐related genetic testing (d = 0.87, 95% CI [0.37, 1.36]) and attitudes toward genetic testing (d = 1.14, 95% CI [0.66, 1.61]) compared to those who had not received such testing, although there were no meaningful differences between those same groups regarding beliefs about genetic testing unrelated to autism (d = 0.02, 95% CI [−0.45, 0.49], p = 0.93). Intention to genetically test oneself or one's (hypothetical) children was also significantly predicted by autism‐specific beliefs, attitudes, and prior genetic testing status. A large majority of the sample (78.6%) also agreed that autistic individuals would benefit from contact with a genetic counselor in certain situations. These findings suggest that the autistic community does not have a singular view of genetic testing, and for those Autistic individuals who are interested in pursuing genetic testing for themselves or a family member, genetic counselors have the potential to play a key role in clinical care.
Conserved quality control mechanisms of mitochondrial protein import
Authors: Borgert Lion , Becker Thomas , den Brave Fabian
Published: May 2024

Mitochondria carry out essential functions for the cell, including energy production, various biosynthesis pathways, formation of co‐factors and cellular signalling in apoptosis and inflammation. The functionality of mitochondria requires the import of about 900–1300 proteins from the cytosol in baker's yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae and human cells, respectively. The vast majority of these proteins pass the outer membrane in a largely unfolded state through the translocase of the outer mitochondrial membrane (TOM) complex. Subsequently, specific protein translocases sort the precursor proteins into the outer and inner membranes, the intermembrane space and matrix. Premature folding of mitochondrial precursor proteins, defects in the mitochondrial protein translocases or a reduction of the membrane potential across the inner mitochondrial membrane can cause stalling of precursors at the protein import apparatus. Consequently, the translocon is clogged and non‐imported precursor proteins accumulate in the cell, which in turn leads to proteotoxic stress and eventually cell death. To prevent such stress situations, quality control mechanisms remove non‐imported precursor proteins from the TOM channel. The highly conserved ubiquitin‐proteasome system of the cytosol plays a critical role in this process. Thus, the surveillance of protein import via the TOM complex involves the coordinated activity of mitochondria‐localized and cytosolic proteins to prevent proteotoxic stress in the cell.
Assessing phenotypic variation and plasticity of endemic gastropods from thermal water refugia using complex morphometric techniques: A case study of Lake Pețea melanopsids
Authors: Gulyás Sándor , Sümegi Pál , Müller Tamás , Geary Dana H. , Magyar Imre , Nagy Balázs , Benyó‐Korcsmáros Réka
Published: May 2024

Understanding the underlying reasons for phenotypic plasticity and resulting morphological disparity is one of the key topics of evolutionary research. The phenotypic plasticity of extant and fossil melanopsids has been widely documented. Yet millennial‐resolution, well‐dated records from small aquatic habitats harboring endemics are scarce. The thermal spring‐fed Lake Pețea is an ice age refugia harboring a unique endemic warm‐water fauna. Subfossil melanopsids display incredible morphological variability from smooth to keeled, elongated to ribbed, shouldered forms. Numerous morphotypes have been considered as individual taxa with a fluent succession from the smooth elongated to the ribbed, shouldered types. This study presents an extensive morphometric analysis of subfossil melanopsids (ca. 3500 specimens) derived from stratified samples with an independent chronology. The aim was to separate morphotypes for investigations of temporal morphological disparity. Our results challenge the widely accepted hypothesis that proposes the evolution of shouldered, compressed, ribbed shells through a two‐step process from smooth elongated spindle‐shaped shells. Instead, it suggests that the subfossil shells belong to two distinct taxa present throughout the available stratigraphic data. The main components of shape variation, shape globularity, and shell coiling seem allometry‐related. Ribs, striation, and keels appear randomly. High‐spired spindle‐shaped forms were considered to represent specimens of Microcolpia daudebartii hazayi. Bulkier low‐spired and shouldered specimens represent phenotypes of Mi. parreyssii parreyssii. The collective and random distribution of morphotypes from the early stages of the lake's history also refutes the idea of a continuous transformation of the elongated forms into compressed, shouldered ones. Rather points to multiple events and environmental stimuli triggering development. Melanopsids appear in Late Glacial horizons, with Theodoxus prevostianus preferring temperatures above 23°C which may indicate the subordinate presence of hot water microhabitats in cooler waters.
Thermal image evaluation of crop diseases in the incubation period
Authors: Yang Yaya , Zhang Yan , Zhou Xingjiao , Zhao Jian , Bao Hao , Huang Renshuai
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND

Early blight is one of the main diseases that causes serious pepper yield and quality reduction. The identification of the presymptomatic features during the incubation period is of great research significance, in that scientific prevention measures in the incubation period may effectively reduce the loss of peppers.

RESULTS

The present study confirms the feasibility of the identification of presymptomatic features in pepper early blight by infrared thermography during the incubation period. The infrared thermal images of pepper blades were captured during the whole incubation period in our experiment. Evaluation parameters such as temperature uniformity (U) and the variation coefficient (C) were established by infrared thermal images for the blade temperature field. Evaluation parameters such as temperature uniformity U and variation coefficient C of pepper blades change during the time from being inoculated to significant morbidity. For cases of stabbing inoculation, there were no relatively obvious symptoms in visible light images until 96 h after inoculation, whereas some presymptomatic features appeared in infrared thermal images at 60 h after inoculation. Based on the uniformity changes (δU) and the variation coefficient changes (δC) in the temperature field distribution, the characteristic polynomial (CP)‐GBDT model has been established by optimizing the gradient boosting decision tree (GBDT) model. Compared with the GBDT mode, the CP‐GBDT model accuracy increased from 87.5% to 91.7% on the test set.

CONCLUSION

Evaluation parameters such as temperature uniformity U and variation coefficient C can be used to effectively characterize the presymptomatic features of pepper early blight by infrared thermography during the incubation period. The results of the present study can provide a reference for the detection of crop diseases in the incubation period. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Pre‐ and postharvest chitosan coatings extend the physicochemical and bioactive qualities of minimally processed ‘Crimson Seedless’ grapes during cold storage
Authors: Sabir Ferhan K , Unal Sevil , Aydın Suna , Sabir Ali
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND

Food marketers desire residue‐free fresh grapes although grapes have a short postharvest life. This study was performed to determine the influences of pre‐ and/or postharvest chitosan (Ch) coatings on postharvest quality of minimally processed (stem‐detached) organic ‘Crimson Seedless’ berries. Berries were sorted as: (a) control (untreated berries); (b) preharvest Ch (dipping the clusters on the vine into 1% Ch 10 days before harvest at 20% soluble solid content (SSC)); (c) postharvest Ch (dipping the stem‐detached berries into 1% Ch); and (d) pre + postharvest Ch. Berries were stored in 12 × 15 cm rigid polypropylene cups for up to 42 days at 1.0 ± 0.5 °C.

RESULTS

Pre‐ and/or postharvest Ch coating reduced weight loss during storage. Pre‐ + postharvest Ch was the best treatment for restricting polygalacturonase (PG) activity, extending the visual quality, color features (L*, C and h°), skin rupture force, biochemical (SSC, titratable acidity, maturity index and pH) and bioactive (total phenol content, antioxidant activity) features. Pre‐ or postharvest Ch was also significantly effective in maintaining many quality features.

CONCLUSION

Pre‐ and/or postharvest 1% Ch coatings effectively maintained the quality of minimally processed grape berries of organically produced ‘Crimson Seedless’ grapes by delaying weight loss and PG activity and keeping the postharvest physical, biochemical and bioactive features for 42‐day cold storage at 1.0 ± 0.5 °C. The combined use of pre‐ and postharvest Ch found to be more effective than single treatment. Thus, pre‐ + postharvest 1% Ch coating could be recommended as an ecofriendly sustainable methodology for extending the postharvest quality of minimally processed fresh grapes. © 2024 The Author(s). Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Expatriate managers in hospitality: A systematic literature review
Authors: Khliefat Aahed , Eyoun Khalid
Published: May 2024

This systematic review endeavors to offer a comprehensive analysis of the research on expatriate managers in the hospitality industry, elucidate contemporary issues, and identify prominent trends that are important for both researchers and practitioners. This study utilizes bibliometric and thematic analytic methodologies to trace the development of academic scholarship on expatriate managers over time, highlighting emerging themes at critical points in the literature. A review of 43 articles published between 1990 and 2023 reveals that researchers have paid disproportionate attention to issues that arise and encounter managers during their international assignments, while giving far less attention to issues related to returning home, expatriate work‐life balance, family dynamics, and female expatriates. Imperative voids in the literature on hospitality expatriation are revealed and theoretical and practical consequences are advanced, including suggestions for future research and methods for improving expatriate managers' journeys in international hospitality assignments. To the best of our knowledge, this review is a groundbreaking effort in this academic field, paving the way for future studies that aim to shed light on the complex realities faced by hospitality industry expatriate managers.
Coronal Plane Assessment for Levator Trauma
Authors: Shek Ka Lai , Dietz Hans Peter
Published: May 2024

Objective

Levator avulsion is a major etiological factor of pelvic organ prolapse (POP) and is primarily diagnosed on tomographic axial plane imaging. Two‐dimensional imaging can also image the levator. The objective was to test reproducibility and validity of coronal plane assessment for diagnosis of levator trauma by assessing the coronal plane obtained on tomographic ultrasound imaging.

Methods

A retrospective study of women who had undergone an interview, POPQ and four‐dimensional translabial ultrasound at a tertiary urogynecological unit. Post‐processing of archived volume data was performed for assessment; and levator muscle area and estimate of remnant muscle mass in the coronal plane. Interobserver reproducibility of the latter two measures and associations between various measures of levator trauma and POP were tested.

Results

Interobserver agreement was good for percentage estimates (ICC 0.743), but fair for area measurements (ICC 0.482). Six hundred and twenty four women were seen, 468 (75%) had significant clinical prolapse. Full levator avulsions were diagnosed in 137 (22%). Mean TTS was 2.7 (range 0–12). On coronal plane assessment average muscle area was 1.47 (SD 0.76) cm2 and 1.55 (SD 0.74) cm2 on the right and left, respectively (P = .005). It was 76% and 79% for average estimates of muscle mass (P = .021). Both measures were strongly associated with POP; however, they were not superior to TTS in predicting POP.

Conclusion

Coronal plane assessment in volume data is reproducible and valid for evaluation of levator trauma. Muscle mass estimate may be a better measure than muscle area.
Skin manifestations and human immunodeficiency virus infection in the Tigray region, Ethiopia: Implications for clinical management and epidemiologic surveillance
Authors: Morrone Aldo , Abril Elva , Cavallo Ilaria , Sivori Francesca , Sperduti Isabella , Lora Viviana , D'Agosto Giovanna , Trento Elisabetta , Pontone Martina , Mastrofrancesco Arianna , Kelbore Abraham Getachew , Daba Gutema Frehiwot , Sammain Adel , Latini Ottavio , Di Domenico Enea Gino , Pimpinelli Fulvia
Published: May 2024

Background

Patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection may present a large variety of skin manifestations, often associated with significant morbidity. In turn, dermatological diseases may represent an early sign of HIV infection, particularly in resource‐limited settings.

Objectives

This study aimed to assess the spectrum of dermatological diseases and their potential value as clinical proxies for the early detection and management of HIV in a rural region of Ethiopia.

Methods

The study was performed on a population of 67,161 patients with skin diseases attending the Italian Dermatological Center in Mekele, Tigray region, Ethiopia. HIV infection was diagnosed in 1892 individuals (1065 female), all naïve to antiretroviral therapy.

Results

Infectious skin diseases were present in 57.2% of the total HIV population. Among the infectious skin manifestations, dermatophytosis (20.5%), impetigo (5.9%), candidiasis (4.7%) and molluscum contagiosum (4.7%) were significantly more represented in patients with HIV infection (p < 0.001). Regarding the noninfectious manifestations, pruritus and atrophy of the papillae on the tongue were significantly associated with HIV (p < 0.001). Notably, females had a significantly higher incidence of dermatophytosis and seborrheic dermatitis as compared to their male counterparts (p < 0.001), whereas scabies, psoriasis and leishmaniasis were significantly more frequent in males (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Skin manifestations are common in HIV patients, often reflecting compromised immune status. In addition, Dermatophytosis and pruritus were the most frequently reported manifestations of HIV, thus representing useful clinical proxies to raise the suspicion of an underlying HIV infection. Besides, gender differences in skin manifestations should also be considered in the clinical evaluation.
Near‐Field Coupling of Janus Dipoles Beyond Polarization Locking
Authors: Wang Chan , Zhong Yuhan , Chen Xuhuinan , Wang Huaping , Low Tony , Chen Hongsheng , Zhang Baile , Lin Xiao
Published: May 2024

Polarization, as a fundamental property of light, plays a key role in many phenomena of near‐field coupling, namely the coupling of source's evanescent waves into some guided modes. As a typical example of the polarization‐locked phenomenon in the near‐field coupling, the Janus dipole has the orientation of its near‐field coupling face intrinsically determined by the polarization state of linearly‐polarized surface waves, specifically whether they are transverse‐magnetic (TM) or transverse‐electric (TE) surface waves. Here, a mechanism to achieve the directional near‐field coupling of Janus dipoles beyond polarization locking by leveraging hybrid TM‐TE surface waves is presented. These hybrid surface waves, as eigenmodes with both TM and TE wave components, can be supported by optical interfaces between different filling materials inside a parallel‐plate waveguide. Under the excitation of hybrid surface waves, it is found that the coupling and non‐coupling face of a Janus dipole may be switched, if the Janus dipole itself rotates in a plane parallel to the designed optical interface between different filling materials, without resorting to the change of surface‐wave polarization. The underlying mechanism is due to the capability of hybrid surface waves to extract both the source's TM and TE evanescent waves, which offers an alternative paradigm to regulate the interference in the near‐field coupling.
Hybrid Single Crystals of Poly(ε‐caprolactone) Homopolymers and Poly(ε‐caprolactone)‐b‐Poly(ethylene oxide) Block Copolymers
Authors: Yang Chen , Li Zi‐Xian , Xu Jun‐Ting
Published: May 2024

Hybrid single crystals (HSCs) of different poly(ε‐caprolactone) (PCL) homopolymers with a poly(ε‐caprolactone)‐b‐poly(ethylene oxide) (PCL‐b‐PEO) block copolymer (BCP) are prepared. The effects of PCL length, PCL/PCL‐b‐PEO molar ratio, crystallization temperature (Tc), and solvent on crystal morphology are investigated. The optimal Tc for the formation of more perfect HSCs is between those for homocrystals of individual PCL and PCL‐b‐PEO and roughly increases with the length of PCL and PCL/PCL‐b‐PEO molar ratio. The chain folding in the HSCs is studied by comparing the experimentally measured heights obtained by atomic force microscopy (AFM) and theoretically calculated ones based on a sandwich structure model. Under most situations, the PCL homopolymers adopt a larger chain folding number in the HSCs than that in their homocrystals, while the chain folding of BCP remains unaltered. However, when both PCL homopolymer and PCL‐b‐PEO BCP crystallize slowly and the overcrowding of the PEO is effectively alleviated, thicker HSCs can be formed, in which the PCL homopolymer preserves the chain folding in its homocrystals but the BCP adopts a reduced chain folding number as compared with that in its homocrystals. The relative crystallization rate of PCL homopolymer versus BCP also affects the real composition and overall height of the HSCs.
High Glass Transition Temperature Fluorinated Polymers Based on Transfer Learning with Small Experimental Data
Authors: Yang Jin‐Hoon , Lee Jiyoung , Kwon Hajin , Sohn Eun‐Ho , Chang Hyunju , Jang Seunghun
Published: May 2024

Machine learning can be used to predict the properties of polymers and explore vast chemical spaces. However, the limited number of available experimental datasets hinders the enhancement of the predictive performance of a model. This study proposes a machine learning approach that leverages transfer learning and ensemble modeling to efficiently predict the glass transition temperature (Tg) of fluorinated polymers and guide the design of high Tg copolymers. Initially, the quantum machine 9 (QM9) dataset is employed for model pretraining, thus providing robust molecular representations for the subsequent fine‐tuning of a specialized copolymer dataset. Ensemble modeling is used to further enhance prediction robustness and reliability, effectively addressing the problems owing to the limited and unevenly distributed nature of the copolymer dataset. Finally, a fine‐tuned ensemble model is used to navigate a vast chemical space comprising 61 monomers and identify promising candidates for high Tg fluorinated polymers. The model predicts 247 entries capable of achieving a Tg over 390 K, of which 14 are experimentally validated. This study demonstrates the potential of machine learning in material design and discovery, highlighting the effectiveness of transfer learning and ensemble modeling strategies for overcoming the challenges posed by small datasets in complex copolymer systems.
Carbohydrate‐Based Reprocessable and Healable Covalent Adaptable Biofoams
Authors: Upadhyay Chandan , Ojha Umaprasana
Published: May 2024

Polymeric foams derived from bio‐based resources and capable of self‐healing and recycling ability are of great demand to fulfill various applications and address environmental concerns related to accumulation of plastic wastes. In this article, a set of polyester‐based covalent adaptable biofoams (CABs) synthesized from carbohydrates and other bio‐derived precursors under catalyst free conditions to offer a sustainable alternative to conventional toxic isocyanate‐based polyurethane foams is reported. The dynamic β‐keto carboxylate linkages present in these biofoams impart self‐healing ability and recyclability to these samples. These CABs display adequate tensile properties especially compressive strength (≤123 MPa) and hysteresis behavior. The CABs swiftly stress relax at 150 °C and are reprocessable under similar temperature conditions. These biofoams have displayed potential for use as attachment on solar photovoltaics to augment the output efficiency. These CABs with limited swellability in polar protic solvents and adequate mechanical resilience are suitable for other commodity applications.