bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluating a screening‐to‐intervention model with caregiver training for response to name among children with autism
Authors: Conine Daniel E. , Dumas Lera A. , Collum Sarah A. , Wilson Lindsey N. , Gayman Cassondra M. , Keller Chelsea E. , Marya Videsha
Published: December 2024

Among the developmental milestones related to language and communication in early childhood, one that has been the subject of considerable research is response to name (RTN). Delayed or absent RTN in early childhood is a diagnostic marker for autism spectrum disorder and a target behavior in many early intervention curricula. This article describes two related studies. Study 1 evaluated the efficacy and efficiency of a behavioral screening‐to‐intervention model for RTN proposed by recent research. Overall, trials to mastery were reduced relative to previous research. Study 2 evaluated the efficacy of using behavioral skills training to teach caregivers to implement a RTN intervention with their child after that intervention was successful in a clinical setting. Generalized improvements in RTN with caregivers sometimes occurred but did not maintain without programmed reinforcement. Subsequent behavioral skills training was associated with increases in both child RTN and caregiver intervention fidelity.
Development of a Visible–Near Infrared Projected Multispectral Imaging System for Intraoperative Breast Tumor Margin Assessment
Authors: Wang Hao , Chen Shuyu , Guo Sisi , Gao Jing , Zhou Xudong , Chen Qian , Yang Houpu , Xie Fei , Wang Shu , Gao Kun , Liu Lihui , Zhang Ruoyu , Wang Jianfeng
Published: December 2024

A visible–near infrared (VIS–NIR) projected multispectral imaging (Proj‐MSI) system consisting of an MSI subsystem and a compact projector for intraoperative breast tumor margin assessment was developed. MSI with an average spectral resolution of 24 nm was realized through sequential illumination of 26 sets of VIS–NIR light‐emitting diodes and synchronized single NIR‐sensitive camera image capture. Rapid (~1 min) tumor margin delineation revealed significantly (p < 0.01, Student's t‐test) reduced reflectivity associated with breast tumor. Speeded‐up robust features algorithm‐based field of view calibration allowed the MSI identified tumor margins to be projected directly onto the breast‐conserving surgery (BCS) surgical cavity with a projection error of < 1 mm. Besides, the projected tumor margin boundaries were outlined using Indian ink to simulate breast tumor removal, demonstrating the potential of the Proj‐MSI system developed for intraoperative tumor margin assessment during BCS.
Muscle Mass Index Decline as a Predictor of Lung Function Reduction in the General Population
Authors: Choi Joon Young , Rhee Chin Kook , Kim Sang Hyuk , Jo Yong Suk
Published: December 2024

Background

This study explores the link between muscle mass decline and lung function deterioration, which can worsen respiratory health by reducing exercise capacity and quality of life. The relationship between muscle mass index (MMI) changes and lung function in the general population remains unclear, especially as muscle mass fluctuates with aging. We aimed to clarify this dynamic relationship by examining how changes in muscle mass impact pulmonary function and the development of respiratory symptoms.

Methods

We utilized the Ansan and Ansung Cohort Study of the Korean Genome and Epidemiology Study (KoGES) database, a large‐scale prospective cohort, enrolling participants aged 40 to 69 years with lung function and body composition measurements. Over 12 years, data were collected biannually. The study assessed associations between changes in MMI and lung function trends, with cT1‐T3 calculated using the linear regression coefficient and stratified by tertile. Survival analysis was then performed to examine differences in time to first airflow obstruction (AFO) and exacerbation among the tertiles.

Results

A total of 2956 participants were enrolled in this study. At baseline, participants with higher MMI tended to be younger, had fewer co‐morbidities and exhibited better lung function. Those with a steeper MMI decline rate exhibited a more rapid forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) decline over a 12‐year follow‐up (cT1: 43.3 mL/year, cT2: 38.4 mL/year, cT3: 33.2 mL/year, p < 0.001). Forced vital capacity (FVC) decline were more pronounced in groups with greater MMI decline rates (cT1: 38.5 mL/year, cT2: 32.8 mL/year, cT3: 26.0 mL/year, p < 0.001). Although, the time to first AFO did not differ significantly among T1‐T3 groups, the time to first exacerbation related to wheezing event was significantly lower in cT3 group than in cT1 group (HR: 0.786, 95% CI: 0.629, 0.982).

Conclusions

A faster decline in MMI was associated with more rapid decline of both FEV1 and FVC and a higher risk of developing exacerbations of respiratory symptom. Although AFO was not associated with changes in MMI, further research is needed to explore the long‐term relationships between muscle mass and the effects of preventive interventions aimed at maintaining muscle mass and respiratory health.
Lonafarnib Protects Against Muscle Atrophy Induced by Dexamethasone
Authors: Bae Sanghoon , Mai Van‐Hieu , Mun Seyoung , Dong Dalong , Han Kyudong , Park Sunghyouk , Hyun Jung Keun
Published: December 2024

Background

Muscle atrophy, including glucocorticoid‐induced muscle wasting from treatments such as dexamethasone (DEX), results in significant reductions in muscle mass, strength and function. This study investigates the potential of lonafarnib, a farnesyltransferase inhibitor, to counteract DEX‐induced muscle atrophy by targeting key signalling pathways.

Methods

We utilized in vitro models with C2C12 myotubes treated with DEX and in vivo models with Caenorhabditis elegans and DEX‐treated Sprague–Dawley rats. Myotube morphology was assessed by measuring area, fusion index and diameter. Muscle function was evaluated by grip strength and compound muscle action potential (CMAP) in the gastrocnemius (GC) and tibialis anterior (TA) muscles. Molecular mechanisms were explored through RNA sequencing and Western blotting to assess changes in mitochondrial function and muscle signalling pathways.

Results

Lonafarnib (2 μM) significantly improved myotube area (1.49 ± 0.14 × 105 μm2 vs. 1.03 ± 0.49 × 105 μm2 in DEX, p < 0.05), fusion index (18.73 ± 1.23% vs. 13.3 ± 1.56% in DEX, p < 0.05) and myotube diameter (31.89 ± 0.89 μm vs. 21.56 ± 1.01 μm in DEX, p < 0.05) in C2C12 myotubes. In C. elegans, lonafarnib (100 μM) increased the pharyngeal pumping rate from 212 ± 7.21 contractions/min in controls to 308 ± 17.09 contractions/min at day 4 (p < 0.05), indicating enhanced neuromuscular function. In DEX‐induced atrophic rats, lonafarnib improved maximal grip strength (DEX: 13.91 ± 0.78 N vs. 1 μM lonafarnib: 16.18 ± 0.84 N and 5 μM lonafarnib: 16.71 ± 0.83 N, p < 0.05), increased muscle weight in GC, and enhanced CMAP amplitudes in both GC and TA muscles. Western blot analysis showed that lonafarnib treatment upregulated UCP3 and ANGPTL4 and increased phosphorylation of mTOR and S6 ribosomal protein (p < 0.05), indicating enhanced mitochondrial function and protein synthesis. Knockdown models further demonstrated that lonafarnib could partially rescue muscle atrophy phenotypes, indicating its action through multiple molecular pathways.

Conclusions

Lonafarnib mitigates dexamethasone‐induced muscle atrophy by enhancing mitochondrial function and activating anabolic pathways. These findings support further investigation of lonafarnib as a therapeutic agent for muscle atrophy in clinical settings.
Camouflaging in neurodivergent and neurotypical girls at the transition to adolescence and its relationship to mental health: A participatory methods research study
Authors: McKinney Ailbhe , O’Brien Sarah , Maybin Jacqueline A. , Chan Stella W. Y. , Richer Simone , Rhodes Sinead
Published: December 2024

Background

Adolescent girls with diagnoses of autism, ADHD and/or developmental coordination disorder (DCD) are at higher risk for mental health problems than boys with the same diagnoses and neurotypical girls. These girls are called neurodivergent here, though neurodivergence includes a broader range of diagnoses. One possible reason for this mental health disparity could be camouflaging, a coping strategy used more by girls. Camouflaging is when the individual pretends to be neurotypical, often involving substantial effort. This study aims to understand: (a) if the use of camouflaging has started by early adolescence, (b) how components of camouflaging (assimilation, masking, and compensation) present at this age, (c) if age predicts camouflaging and (d) what is the relationship with mental health.

Methods

Participatory methods: A co‐production team of 15 adult neurodivergent women co‐produced the project and ranked camouflaging as their most important research theme.

Main Study: Participants were 119 girls (70 neurodivergent, 49 neurotypical) aged 11–14 years. A transdiagnostic approach was adopted and the neurodivergent group had a diagnosis of autism, ADHD and/or DCD. Girls completed self‐report measures of camouflaging, anxiety, and depression in an online meeting with a researcher.

Results

Neurodivergent and neurotypical girls presented similarly on two components of camouflaging namely masking and compensation, components related to presenting in a socially acceptable way and mimicry. Groups differed on the assimilation component, which is related to trying to fit in and involves the feelings of pretending/acting. Age had a medium effect on camouflaging with higher levels of camouflaging observed in older girls. Camouflaging scores strongly predicted anxiety and depression scores in both groups.

Conclusions

The use of camouflaging, specifically assimilation, is evident in a transdiagnostic sample of 11–14 year old neurodivergent girls. Importantly, the strong relationship between camouflaging and poor mental health is present at this early age, substantiating the co‐production team's insights.
Women faculty members’ challenges when pursuing leadership positions in academic dentistry: A survey
Authors: Cain Lisa D. , Andrews Elizabeth , Joy‐Thomas Anita , Mathu‐Muju Kavita R. , ElHachem Lea , Garcia M. Nathalia , De Melo Mary A. S. , Brady Michelle , López Ana N. , Holyfield Lavern J. , Nyquist Jo Ann A.
Published: December 2024

Purpose/objectives

This study addresses persistent gender disparities in leadership roles in academic dentistry. The objectives were to identify the challenges and barriers to leadership that women face in general and during the COVID‐19 pandemic, as well as to describe resources they need to reach their leadership potential.

Methods

The American Dental Education Association Section on Women in Leadership (WIL), gathered survey data concerning leadership challenges and faculty development needs. The survey targeted 300 WIL members in leadership roles or aspiring to leadership roles. It was conducted from January to March 2021 and 128 participants responded (response rate: 42.7%). The data was analyzed quantitatively and qualitatively.

Results

The most frequent reported leadership barriers indicated by the survey respondents were lack of mentoring, limited leadership training, lack of sponsorship from administration, family obligations and limited job opportunities. The participants stated that the COVID‐19 pandemic exacerbated these challenges, affecting collaborations, increasing stress, and impacting scholarly productivity. The survey responses showed how external factors can challenge faculty productivity. Respondents identified mentoring, increased leadership opportunity awareness, and leadership development seminars as factors most helpful for their professional development.

Conclusions

This study identified women faculty members’ perceptions of why disparities persist in gender equity in leadership in dental education. It suggests developing gender specific leadership strategies and resources. Addressing barriers requires concerted efforts at the institutional, national, and global levels. This is vital for achieving gender parity in leadership roles in dental education settings.
Genome‐Wide Association Study of Persistent Anal Human Papillomavirus Infection Among HIV‐Positive Males in Taizhou, China: A Cohort Study
Authors: Zhang Jing , Shao Shuang , Chen Xiaoxiao , Wang Shanling , Shen Weiwei , Xie Yali , Zhang Zhen , Lin Yajun , Lin Zhebin , Li Yan , Ding Yingying , He Na , Lin Haijiang , Liu Xing
Published: December 2024

The determinants of persistent human papillomavirus (HPV) infection remain largely unknown, and existing studies have predominantly focused on the female population. Individual genetic background may influence the persistence of HPV infection, we the evidence overall and among human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)‐positive males are very limited. We conducted a genome‐wide association study (GWAS) to identify single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with anal HPV persistence, based on a cohort designed to study the natural history of anal HPV infection among HIV‐positive males in Taizhou, China from 2016 to 2022. A total of 322 HIV‐positive males with anal HPV infection, with a mean age of 43.0 (standard deviation [SD]: 13.8) years, were included in this GWAS. The median follow‐up time was 1.8 (interquartile range [IQR]: 1.5–2.0) years. The persistence of any type of HPV infection was 53.4%. After adjusting for age and sexual orientation, there were 2 SNPs with p < 1 × 10−5 and 24 SNPs with p < 1 × 10−4. The most closely associated with HPV persistence in additive models were rs7359031 (LOC105370461, odds ratio [OR]T/C = 0.36, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.24–0.56; p = 6.67 × 10−6) located at 14q21.1, and rs11046048 (PYROXD1, ORC/A = 0.41, 95% CI: 0.28–0.60; p = 7.80 × 10−6) located at 12p12.1. Other SNPs were mainly located at 6q23.3 (HBS1L‐MYB) and 6p21.33 (CCHCR1, PSORS1C3). LOC105370461, PYROXD1, HBS1L‐MYB, CCHCR1, and PSORS1C3 may be susceptible genes for HPV persistence. We appeal further studies to validate these associations and examine the underlying mechanisms.
Rainfall Erosivity Projection in South‐East Australia Using the Improved Regional Climate Simulations
Authors: Zhu Qinggaozi , Yang Xihua , Ji Fei , Du Zheyuan
Published: December 2024

Rainfall erosivity is one of the most dynamic factors in the soil erosion process. The increase in soil erosion caused by high rainfall erosivity, and the subsequent loss of soil nutrients, can lead to reduced food production and ecosystem services. This research program under the New South Wales (NSW) Climate Change Adaptation Strategy, assesses rainfall pattern change, rainfall erosivity and erosion risk across NSW under future climate conditions. Daily rainfall erosivity and erosion risk were modelled by Revised Soil Loss Universal Equation (RUSLE) approach and compared with that driven by observed rainfall data. Future rainfall erosivity and soil erosion risk change were investigated from daily precipitation projection of the updated NSW and Australian Regional Climate Modelling (NARCliM1.5) for two future scenarios, RCP4.5 and RCP8.5, from the historical (1986–2005) to far future (2060–2079) periods. The annual average rainfall erosivity is projected to increase about 8% under RCP 4.5 and further decrease 5% under RCP 8.5 in NSW due to the predicted temperature rises. More frequent heavy rainfall events are projected to occur during summer (December–January–February), and the rainfall from these extreme rainfall events is expected to account for 51% of the total annual rainfall in the far future. NARCliM‐derived results underestimate annual rainfall erosivity compared with observation‐derived erosivity. There are greater instability (root mean squared error [RMSE]: 803.2) and erosivity uncertainty (Bias: 16%~48%) in high rainfall zones. At a monthly scale, dry months (June–July–August) are becoming drier, while wet months (December–January–February) are becoming wetter and more erosive. 67% of NSW is predicted to experience increased rainfall erosivity under RCP4.5, whereas most of NSW will shift to drought and its consequent effects under the high‐end emission scenario (RCP 8.5). To address the dual challenges of excessive wetness in coastal and north‐east NSW and increasing aridity in Western NSW, it is necessary to develop climate change adaptation management strategies based on high‐risk areas and monthly or seasonal conditions. With the emerging launch of NARCliM2.0, we anticipate further improvements of these predictions will be achieved by more accurate models and data at higher spatial and temporal resolutions.
Identifying transdiagnostic traumatic stress reactions in U.S. military veterans: A nationally representative study
Authors: Pugach Cameron P. , Adams Shane W. , Wisco Blair E. , Pietrzak Robert H.
Published: December 2024

Traumatic stress reactions (TSRs) exist on a continuum that includes posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), highly comorbid psychopathology, and resilience, highlighting the need for comprehensive and integrative approaches capable of capturing the full spectrum of heterogeneous reactions. Here, we used a transdiagnostic and multidimensional method to characterize clinical phenotypes of TSRs in a nationally representative sample of U.S. military veterans. The Middle‐Out Approach was used to evaluate self‐reported PTSD, generalized anxiety, major depressive symptoms, and physical and mental functioning to identify discrete latent classes of TSRs and their demographic, military and trauma history, and psychosocial correlates. Cross‐sectional data were analyzed from 3,727 U.S. veterans who participated in the National Health and Resilience in Veterans Study. Latent class analysis identified five classes of veterans: low TSR (61.3%), anxious/depressive (16.6%), avoidant arousal (9.2%), dysphoric arousal (8.2%), and high TSR (4.7%). Veterans in the dysphoric arousal and high TSR classes demonstrated lower functioning than other classes, which showed similar levels of moderate‐to‐high functioning despite symptom differences. Classes distinguished between resilience to PTSD symptoms versus resilience to all symptoms and functioning domains and were differentially associated with demographic characteristics, trauma and military histories, and psychosocial characteristics. The results suggest that veterans exhibit different clinical phenotypes of TSRs, which may help inform etiology, diagnostic subtypes, and personalized treatment. Further, although most veterans with psychopathology experience functional impairment, a sizable subset demonstrates high functioning despite psychopathology symptoms.
Balancing model specificity and transferability: Barn owl nest box selection
Authors: Johnson Matthew D. , Carlino Jaime E. , Chavez Samantha D. , Wang Rebecca , Cortez Christian , Echávez Montenegro Laura M. , Duncan Doris , Ralph Bill
Published: December 2024

Examining the transferability of habitat selection models is vital when they are used to forecast predictions in new times or places, but this issue is too often neglected. Nest boxes are often installed in agricultural landscapes to attract barn owls (Tyto spp.) and the ecosystem services they provide. For this practice to be effective, farmers need actionable guidelines for nest box design and placement to optimize nest box use. We addressed 3 primary objectives: 1) develop a nest box selection model in the well‐studied region of Napa Valley, California, USA, 2) evaluate this model's predictive performance in other regions of California, and 3) use data from all regions to build a more generalizable model. Based on data from 6 years of monitoring used and unused American barn owl (Tyto furcata) nest boxes in Napa Valley, we found that nest box selection was best predicted by nest box attributes (e.g., pole height, box height, and entrance orientation), local land cover (e.g., grassland within 75 m), and landscape‐scale metrics (e.g., grassland within 2.81 km). This model's predictions were strongly correlated with observed nest box use in Napa, but the model performed poorly when used to predict nest box use in other regions that are ecologically similar (Sonoma County) or dissimilar (Fresno, Merced, and Madera counties). A model pooling data from all regions fit the data well and again showed effects of box, local, and landscape predictors. It was more generalizable than the Napa‐only model and lost little precision when applied with forecasting predictions to Napa in particular. Taken together, our results indicate that local data should be used to make the most reliable predictions of nest box use. Until those data are available, general recommendations should be made from models that pool data from as many regions as feasible and should provide appropriate caveats. Results of this work can inform nest box design and placement for the benefit of farmers and owls in California, and future research should examine nest box selection by barn owls in other areas of the world with different climates and local habitats.
Quadriceps tendon autograft diameters are routinely above 8 mm, and preoperative size estimation before anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction may not be necessary for this graft type: A systematic review
Authors: Dworsky‐Fried Joshua , Hadwen Amanda , Bernardini Luca , Vivekanantha Prushoth , Grassi Alberto , Ollivier Matthieu , de Sa Darren
Published: December 2024

Purpose

To identify values of reported quadriceps tendon (QT) autograft diameter and length in anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR), and to identify methods to predict these parameters.

Methods

A search was conducted across three databases from inception to 30 March 2024. Data on study characteristics, demographics, anthropometric data, imaging techniques, and QT autograft or harvested QT tendon parameters were extracted. Values quantifying the statistical strength of associations between imaging or anthropometric characteristics and graft or tendon parameters as well as for associations between these parameters and postoperative outcomes were recorded.

Results

A total of 3633 patients were included. The weighted mean QT autograft diameter and length were 8.9 (standard deviation [SD]: 0.7, range: 7.8–10.4) mm and 8.1 (SD: 1.3, range: 5.6–9.3) cm, respectively. A total of 93.8% of studies that reported mean QT autograft diameter found a value of 8 mm or greater. The QT groups had similar or significantly greater mean autograft diameter compared to the hamstring tendon (HT) groups in 91.7% of studies that reported significance. Regarding MRI measurements, 71.4% of the correlation coefficients reported showed a moderate positive correlation, 28.6% showed a low positive correlation and 14.3% showed a high positive correlation. Regarding anthropometric characteristics, 33.3% and 16.7%, 16.7% and 14.3% of studies that reported on the relationship between QT autograft diameter and height, weight, body mass index or age, respectively, found a low positive statistically significant correlation. Only statistically nonsignificant associations were reported between QT autograft parameters and post‐operative outcomes and complications.

Conclusions

QT autografts used in ACLR have a mean diameter of 8 mm or greater and are consistently larger than HT autografts. Preoperative MRI measurements are better than anthropometric characteristics at predicting QT autograft parameters; however, preoperative prediction may not be necessary for this graft type. QT autograft parameters were not found to be significantly associated with any post‐operative complication or outcome.

Level of Evidence

Level IV.
Comparison between intratympanic injection of dexamethasone and methylprednisolone in idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss: A randomized clinical trial
Authors: Eftekharian Kourosh , Najafi Elnaz , Amizadeh Maryam , Mokari Noosheen , Faramarzi Mohammad , Izadparast Yalda , Jabbari Moghadam Yalda , Eftekharian Ali
Published: December 2024

Objective

To compare the hearing outcomes of patients with idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss after intratympanic (IT) injection of methylprednisolone and dexamethasone.

Study design

Randomized case‐controlled clinical trial.

Methods

Seventy‐five patients diagnosed with idiopathic sensorineural hearing loss were randomly divided into two groups based on therapy. Both groups received oral prednisolone (10 mg/kg; maximum of 60 mg) for 10 days without tapering and received IT injections two times a week for 2 weeks (four injections in total). One group received an IT injection of a 40 mg/mL solution of methylprednisolone, and the other one, 4 mg/mL dexamethasone. Three comparisons between the initial and third‐month hearing tests were made to assess the degree of hearing change: (1) pure tone improvement in each individual tone (0.5, 1, 2, 3, and 4 kHz); (2) word‐recognition score improvement; and (3) complete, partial, and no recovery of hearing calculated (as defined by American Academy of Otolaryngology‐Head and Neck Surgery Clinical Practice Guidelines).

Results

The study was completed with 69 of the 75 patients—34 in the methylprednisolone group and 35 in the dexamethasone group. The groups' differences in frequency‐specific hearing improvement were not statistically significant. There was no statistically significant difference in the word recognition score improvement between the two groups. Additionally, there was no discernible difference between the two groups' hearing recovery rates.

Conclusion

Methylprednisolone and dexamethasone IT injection therapy had similar hearing outcomes.

Level of evidence

2.
The 595‐nm Wavelength Pulsed Dye Laser for Pediatric Port‐Wine Birthmarks and Infantile Hemangiomas: A Systematic Review
Authors: Hashemi David A. , Tao Joy , Wang Jordan V. , Geronemus Roy G.
Published: December 2024

Introduction

The 595‐nm wavelength pulsed dye laser (PDL) is well‐established in the treatment of vascular lesions. In June 2023, it received FDA clearance for the treatment of port‐wine birthmarks (PWB) and infantile hemangiomas (IH) in the pediatric population.

Objective

Review the evidence regarding the efficacy, safety, and implications of using PDL for management of pediatric PWB and IH.

Methods

A systematic literature search was performed to identify peer‐reviewed articles and clinical trials published between July 2002 and December 2022 in which PDL was used to treat pediatric PWB and IH.

Results

After application of criteria, 33 journal articles with 7725 total patients were included. Only 16 (0.8%) of the 2,033 patients with PWB and 11 (0.2%) of the 5692 patients with hemangioma reported permanent adverse effects including scarring, keloids, or permanent pigmentation change, and none reported blindness or other serious injury. Good, excellent, or complete clearance after PDL–on average or in greater than 50% of patients–was reported in 17 of 19 studies (89%) that reported these measures for PWB, and seven of the seven studies (100%) for IH.

Conclusion

The 595‐nm PDL is an excellent treatment option for early intervention in pediatric patients with PWB or IH.
A Novel Discrete Element Method for Smooth Polyhedrons and Its Application to Modeling Flows of Concave‐Shaped Particles
Authors: Wang Siqiang , Xu Qingwei , Liang Dongfang , Ji Shunying
Published: December 2024

The smooth polyhedral model has been commonly used to construct non‐spherical particles with smooth surfaces, whereas it is mainly constrained to numerical simulations involving concave‐shaped particles. This constraint arises from the limitations imposed by the contact algorithm. In this study, the contact detection between smooth polyhedrons is simplified to that between dilated triangular elements, and a discrete element method for concave polyhedral particles with smooth surfaces is developed. Subsequently, an automatic mesh simplification algorithm is established to enhance the computational efficiency without compromising accuracy. In validating the smooth polyhedral model, the simulation results of a hexahedron colliding with a plane are found to agree favorably with the experimental results. Then, the elastic collisions between the convex and concave particles are analyzed, and the total kinetic energy before and after the particle collision remains unchanged. Furthermore, the influences of particle morphology on the packing fraction, flow fluctuation, flow rate, mixing rate, velocity distribution, and system energy in hoppers and rotating drums are analyzed, revealing the underlying flow characteristics of concave polyhedral granular materials with smooth surfaces.
Genetic Diagnosis and Clinical Features of Fetuses With Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia
Authors: Lü Yan , Yu Yi , Chang Jiazhen , Li Mengmeng , Yang Xueting , Zhou Xiya , Hao Na , Meng Hua , Li Zhenghong , Ma Lishuang , You Hui , Jian Shan , Wang Ying , Li Shengjie , Yu Yiqing , Yin Kaili , Wang Mingming , Jiang Yulin , Qi Qingwei
Published: December 2024

Objective

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is a rare abnormality with highly heterogeneous genetic causes. This study investigated chromosomal and monogenic abnormalities in fetal CDH patients and evaluated the efficacy of chromosomal microarray analysis (CMA) and whole‐exome sequencing (WES) for genetic diagnosis. The clinical features of the patients were also evaluated.

Methods

We evaluated the genetic and clinical data of 51 prenatally diagnosed fetuses with CDH. CMA was performed for every patient. If CMA did not yield diagnostic results, the samples were subjected to WES.

Results

Compared with fetuses with isolated CDH (n = 42), those with non‐isolated CDH (n = 9) presented a higher genetic diagnostic rate (22.2% vs. 2.4%). The overall diagnostic yield was 5.9%, comprising 3.9% from chromosomal microarray analysis (CMA) and an additional 2.0% from whole exome sequencing (WES). CMA identified (1) mosaic trisomy 18 in a patient with isolated CDH; and (2) 4q terminal deletion syndrome in a patient with non‐isolated CDH. WES identified a novel missense mutation, PLS3 c.1763A > G, associated with X‐linked CDH in a patient with non‐isolated CDH and a family history of recurrent CDH.

Conclusion

Genetic testing should be offered for all fetuses with CDH, regardless of whether the cases are isolated or non‐isolated. WES should be considered if CMA fails to provide a diagnostic result, particularly in patients with non‐isolated CDH and a family history of recurrent CDH.
Effect of silver nanoparticles modified by depolymerized monomer from waste PET on the thermo‐induced shape memory properties of PVA
Authors: Shen Yue , He Hui , Zhang Cheng , Zhang Qianqian , Xu Zebin , Han Luyun
Published: December 2024

Depolymerization of waste polyethylene terephthalate (PET) into monomers for high‐value reuse serves as an effective recycling strategy. Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) is an important water‐soluble polymer, which can be improved by the addition of silver nanoparticles modified with depolymerized monomer terephthalic acid (rTPA) to further improve the shape memory performance of PVA. Silver nanoparticles are notably responsive to thermal changes due to their distinctive chemical and physical properties. Nonetheless, their tendency to aggregate and high surface energy present difficulties in achieving stable dispersions in aqueous environments. In this research, silver nitrate solution was reduced to prepare silver nanoparticles under the action of the reducing agent ascorbic acid. Modified silver nanoparticles p‐rTPA@Ag were prepared by co‐precipitation of the nanoparticles with rTPA. A mixture of PVA and p‐rTPA@Ag was prepared to form a composite PVA/p‐rTPA@Ag. Modified silver nanoparticles, p‐rTPA@Ag, exhibited enhanced dispersion in aqueous solution. The elongation at break of the composite rose markedly from 169.8% to 315.3%, an increase of 86.7%. Additionally, the shape recovery rate improved from 53.51% to 83.86%, reflecting a 56.7% enhancement.

Highlights

Silver nanoparticles were modified by depolymerized terephthalic acid (rTPA)

Monomer rTPA improves the compatibility between PVA and Ag nanoparticles

p‐rTPA@Ag enhances temperature sensitivity of PVA

p‐rTPA@Ag enhances thermo‐induced shape memory properties of PVA
Effect of Hygrothermal Aging on the Decomposition Reactions of Magnesium/Teflon/Viton (MTV) Pyrotechnic
Authors: Gaunekar Sairaj , Ambekar Anirudha
Published: December 2024

Magnesium/Teflon/Viton (MTV) pyrotechnic compositions are widely used in various applications. Magnesium is known to oxidize under elevated humidity and temperature conditions. Consequently, the performance of MTV pyrotechnics degrades as they age. Accurate characterization of the aging process is necessary for the prediction of storage life and performance of MTV pyrotechnics. This study investigates the hygrothermal aging of an MTV pyrotechnic mixture using accelerated aging, thermogravimetry (TG), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and differential thermal analysis (DTA). The kinetic parameters were obtained using the Friedman isoconversional method. Differential TG (DTG) curves were analyzed to identify the reaction steps occurring during the decomposition of pristine and aged MTV samples. Scanning electron microscope–electron‐dispersive spectroscopy (SEM–EDS) and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy revealed changes in morphology and chemical composition. As expected, increased humidity caused significant degradation of the metallic fuel in the MTV pyrotechnic. Furthermore, the formation of unwanted compounds due to aging was clearly observed. The formation of these compounds, in addition to the depletion of the metallic fuel, was realized to be the cause of reduced the performance of aged MTV pyrotechnics.
Repurposed Medicines: A Scan of the Non‐commercial Clinical Research Landscape
Authors: Akinbolade Sola , Fairbairn Ross , Inskip Alex , Potter Rhiannon , Oliver Aoife , Craig Dawn
Published: December 2024

Medicine repurposing is a strategy to identify new uses for the existing medicines for the purpose of addressing areas of unmet medical need. This paper aims to provide horizon scanning intelligence on repurposed medicines that are evaluated by non‐commercial organizations such as academia and highlights opportunities for further research to improve patient health outcomes. A scan of the clinical landscape of non‐commercially sponsored repurposed medicines is routinely conducted by the NIHR Innovation Observatory (IO). This ongoing project involves a horizon scan of clinical trial registries and the IO's internal horizon scanning Medicines Innovation Database to identify potential candidate medicines used as monotherapy or in combination to treat new indications outside the scope of their licensed indication. In addition to making these data publicly available, the output also supports the NHS England Medicines Repurposing Programme. The snapshot scan reported here (trials completing April 2020–March 2023) identified a total of 528 technologies (meaning, a single product or combination of medicinal products targeting a specific indication in one or more related trials). The technologies were classified according to their characteristics and targeted therapeutic indications as well as revealing the least treated disease conditions. The candidate medicines identified in this scan could potentially receive tailored support toward adoption into practice and policy. The NIHR IO regularly provides this scan as a source of intelligence on repurposed medicines. This provides valuable insights into innovation trends, gaps, and areas of unmet clinical need.
Analysis of a third‐party action incident in a gas pipeline: A case study of the Cuiabá Lateral Pipeline in Brazil
Authors: Silva Bruno Felippe , Filho Pedro Prudêncio de Morais
Published: December 2024

The impact of third‐party actions remains a primary cause of induced failures in transportation systems. In response, the operational safety management system needs continual revision and robust implementation to mitigate such risks effectively. This study goes through the analysis of an incident involving the rupture of a gas pipeline, specifically examining the event that happened in January 2021 along the Cuiabá Lateral Pipeline in Mato Grosso, Brazil. A comprehensive comparative evaluation is undertaken, contrasting the investigation taken by the pipeline operator, and the analysis conducted by the regulatory body. Within the Brazilian context, operators are mandated to adhere to the Technical Regulation of Onshore Oil and Gas Pipelines (RTDT), a regulatory framework grounded in process safety, encompassing requirements for inspection, community engagement, and incident investigations. The regulator assumes an important role in evaluating the investigations carried out by operators. This research sheds light on the divergent perspectives surrounding the management system, depending on whether it is viewed from the operator's lens or the regulator's standpoint. operators tend to emphasize community actions, whereas regulators focus on the efficacy of preventive measures against third‐party actions, underscoring the significance of inspection frequency.
Advancements in Preventing Sn2+ Oxidation in Tin‐Based Perovskite Solar Cells: A Review
Authors: K. M. Anoop , Devadiga Deepak , M. S. Sunitha , T. N. Ahipa
Published: December 2024

Materials for perovskite solar cell (PSC) are being developed as possible contenders for the upcoming photovoltaics generation. However, despite their high efficiency, perovskite materials containing lead are not suitable for commercialization due to their toxic nature. As a result, tin (Sn)‐based perovskites have emerged as a promising alternative. Tin‐based perovskites possess similar ionic sizes to lead and exhibit exceptional light absorption properties. Nevertheless, these materials are hindered by the oxidation from Sn2+ to Sn4+, which results in poor stability and suboptimal conversion efficiency. This review provides a comprehensive exploration of the oxidation mechanism of Sn2+ and presents an in‐depth discussion of recent advancements in various strategies aimed at preventing this oxidation in FASnI3 PSCs.
Effect of Copper Substitution on Structural, Electrical, and Magnetic Properties of Nanocrystalline Cobalt Ferrites for Memory Storage Applications
Authors: Ramesh Kocharlakota Venkata , Venkatesh Davuluri
Published: December 2024

Cu2+‐ion‐doped cobalt ferrites with the chemical formula Co1–xCuxFe2O4 (0 < x ≤ 0.20) are prepared using the citrate–nitrate autocombustion method. The structural properties of the synthesized samples are examined by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and Raman spectroscopy. The XRD studies reveal the formation of a single‐phase spinel cubic structure. A slight variation in the peak position is observed with the addition of Cu2+ ions. The proposed cation distribution is supported by X‐ray relative intensity calculations. FTIR and Raman spectroscopy studies also confirm the formation of a single‐phase cubic structure. Field‐emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) is used to measure the surface properties of the samples. The FESEM images reveal nearly uniform‐sized grains with the addition of Cu2+ ions. The DC electrical resistivity is determined using the conventional two‐probe technique and is typically found within the range of 106 Ω cm−1. Dielectric measurements are performed using an impedance analyzer with 100 Hz–10 MHz frequency range and the variations in the dielectric properties are discussed. The magnetic properties are measured using a vibrating sample magnetometer conducted the magnetic measurements. The uneven variations in the magnetic properties are explained based on Neel's two‐sublattice model.
Reproducibility of local cold‐season characteristics, ice episodes, and prevailing circulation patterns in regional climate models
Authors: Bell Louisa Marie , Schlünzen K. Heinke , Sieck Kevin
Published: December 2024

This study investigates cold‐season characteristics and the occurrence of ice episodes for a target region in northern Germany. Additionally, it identifies the characteristic atmospheric patterns associated with ice episodes using reanalysis data. A pattern‐matching method is developed, which uses the structural similarity index to determine whether regional climate models (RCMs) can reproduce the ice‐episode specific atmospheric patterns identified from the reanalysis data. The results show that the frequency of ice days is overestimated, but not the frequency of frost days. This suggests a daytime cold bias in the RCMs in this region, as maximum temperatures are too low. Moreover, most of the analysed RCMs simulate too many ice episodes ( 5 consecutive ice days). The developed pattern‐matching demonstrates, based on reanalysis data, that ice episodes in the target region can be associated with a variety of different atmospheric patterns. Specifically, longer ice episodes (lasting 14–29 consecutive ice days) in the target region are associated with a blocking pattern over Iceland/the British Isles. This is the most frequent pattern observed during ice episodes in the target region. The least frequent patterns show a system of low GPH over the European continent and are associated with shorter ice episodes (6–8 consecutive ice days) in the target region. The RCMs can reproduce these patterns and their frequency well, regardless of their forcing, and these patterns are also associated with ice episodes in the RCMs. Furthermore, it can be concluded that the “typical” blocking pattern is not a reliable indicator for ice episodes in the target region.
Asymptotic Properties of Matthews Correlation Coefficient
Authors: Itaya Yuki , Tamura Jun , Hayashi Kenichi , Yamamoto Kouji
Published: December 2024

Evaluating classifications is crucial in statistics and machine learning, as it influences decision‐making across various fields, such as patient prognosis and therapy in critical conditions. The Matthews correlation coefficient (MCC), also known as the phi coefficient, is recognized as a performance metric with high reliability, offering a balanced measurement even in the presence of class imbalances. Despite its importance, there remains a notable lack of comprehensive research on the statistical inference of MCC. This deficiency often leads to studies merely validating and comparing MCC point estimates—a practice that, while common, overlooks the statistical significance and reliability of results. Addressing this research gap, our paper introduces and evaluates several methods to construct asymptotic confidence intervals for the single MCC and the differences between MCCs in paired designs. Through simulations across various scenarios, we evaluate the finite‐sample behavior of these methods and compare their performances. Furthermore, through real data analysis, we illustrate the potential utility of our findings in comparing binary classifiers, highlighting the possible contributions of our research in this field.
Preparation of Pitch Porous Nitrogen‐doped Carbon and Its Low‐temperature Lithium Storage Properties
Authors: Dong Wei , Wang Changliang , Shen Ding , Li Sinan , Xue Mingzheng , Yang Shaobin
Published: December 2024

The electrochemical performance of conventional lithium‐ion batteries are significantly deteriorates at low temperatures, posing a significant challenge in the development of battery technology. This paper addresses this issue by focusing on the synthesis of a nitrogen‐doped porous carbon material with fast lithium‐ion diffusion and reaction kinetics at low temperatures. The material was prepared using pitch as a precursor, urea as a nitrogen source and blowing agent, and SiO2 as a template. The obtained nitrogen‐doped porous carbon material (denoted as PN‐2) displayed a specific surface area of 167.64 m2/g and approximately five microcrystalline layers when the urea addition was 20%. Notably, at low temperatures, PN‐2 demonstrated an impressive discharge specific capacity, with average values of 372, 295, 254, and 197 mAh/g at 25 °C, 0 °C, −20 °C, and −40 °C, respectively. The large specific surface area of the porous carbon material effectively increased the active sites for lithium ions, promoting rapid diffusion and improved lithium/delithium kinetics, thus enhancing the multiplicity performance at low temperatures. This research provides the valuable insights for the design of high‐performance lithium‐ion battery materials suitable for cold climate environments.
Characterization, Kinetics, Optimization, and Isotherm Studies of Methyl Green Adsorption on Iron Dithiocarbamate Complex
Authors: Alderhami Suliman A.
Published: December 2024

Iron (III) diethyldithiocarbamate complex (Fe(DTC)) of the general formula [Fe(S2CN(Et)2)3] was synthesized and characterized using chemical, thermogravimetric (TGA/DTG), and (FT‐IR) analysis. The vapor adsorption tests verified that the Fe(DTC) was mesoporous and that the pore surface area was 16.73 m2/g, according to the N2 adsorption‐desorption isotherm. The main aim of this study is to eliminate methyl green (MG) from water via Fe(DTC) adsorption. The adsorption experiments, that investigated the influence of pH and mass, demonstrated that both of these factors have an impact on adsorption. The optimal conditions for MG adsorption onto the Fe(DTC) metal complex were 0.05 g for a Fe(DTC) mass and a pH value of 7 ± 0.2. At 333 K, the maximum capacity for the Fe(DTC) metal complex adsorbent was 26 mg/g for MG. At 180 min, the elimination efficiency for MG dye was approximately 87%. Based on the kinetic experiments, the pseudo‐second‐order model was determined to be the most appropriate for assessing the adsorption process. The mechanism of adsorption was studied by appropriating the adsorption data to the Temkin, Freundlich, Langmuir, Temkin, and Radushkevich models. The results can be adequately described by the Langmuir model.
Carbon Quantum Dots Based Nanocomposite for Selective Mercury Detection
Authors: Das Rahul Kumar , Singh Gaurav Pratap , Yadav Dharmveer , Palwe Ajinkya , Kumar Chandan , Saxena Sumit , Shukla Shobha
Published: December 2024

The emergence of 2D carbon‐based materials has a profound impact on various research areas, such as biosciences, electronics, optics, environmental protection, and monitoring. Mercury, a highly toxic pollutant, can cause severe health complications such as neural toxicity, insomnia, cognitive dysfunction, muscle atrophy, peripheral vision impairment, and emotional instability. A suitable 2D nanostructural interface is required to effectively monitor mercury levels in the environment. This study presents the use of synergistic nitrogen and sulfur co‐doped carbon quantum dots anchored on exfoliated molybdenum disulfide for rapid detection of mercury ions. This process employs a biomass extract that facilitates the exfoliation of bulk molybdenum disulfide and also act as carbon precursor for in situ carbon quantum dot deposition on exfoliated molybdenum disulfide. The nanocomposite provides photo‐physical properties and surface functionalities from both organic and inorganic components to bridge the charge transfer, resulting from selective binding of mercury (II) ions. This 2D heterojunction is capable of detecting mercury (II) ions with a response time of ≈90 s, limit of detection of 31pm, and photosensitivity of 16.6A cm−2 M−1. The interface is tested on blood samples from Labeorohita fish to detect mercury (II) toxicity in nature.