bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Regio‐ and Chemo‐selective C‐H Arylation of 3‐Bromothiophene: A Synthesis Shortcut to Versatile π‐Conjugated Building Blocks for Optoelectronic Materials
Authors: Cao Min‐Ling , Lee Kun‐Mu , Wu Xiao‐Wei , Yu Wei‐Lun , Liu Ching‐Yuan
Published: November 2024

Unlike traditional multi‐step synthetic approaches, we developed a single‐step synthesis of versatile π‐conjugated building blocks bearing post‐functionalizable C−H and C−Br bonds. Direct C−H arylation of 3‐bromothiophene with various iodo(hetero)aryls was successfully carried out with good regio‐ and chemo‐selectivity. Under optimized reaction conditions, 20 new compounds were facilely prepared in yields up to 91 %. One of the obtained compounds was demonstrated to further extend its conjugation length using a succinct synthetic plan to create two symmetrical oligo(hetero)aryls (MLC01 and MLC02) that were fabricated as effective hole‐transporting materials (HTM) for perovskite solar cells (PSC). PSC devices utilizing MLC01 as hole‐transport layer displayed promising power conversion efficiencies of up to 17.01 %.
Therapists' lived experiences of identifying with sensory processing sensitivity: A phenomenological inquiry
Authors: Roxburgh Elizabeth C. , Wright‐Bevans Mel
Published: November 2024

Background

This study explored the lived experiences of therapists who self‐identify as being highly sensitive persons (HSP), otherwise termed sensory processing sensitivity (SPS). SPS is an innate personality trait identified by deeper processing of information, overarousal, emotional intensity and sensory sensitivities (Aron & Aron, 1997). Of particular interest in this study was how being both a therapist and a HSP impacts on participants' well‐being and therapeutic work.

Methods

Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with a purposive sample of 10 qualified therapists. There were nine females and one male, with ages ranging from 34 to 59 years, length of practice ranging from 2 to 15 years and length of time identifying as HSP ranging from 6 months to 12 years. Data were analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis (Smith et al., 2022).

Findings

Two group experiential themes were derived which have implications for therapists' training, practice and supervision. Participants felt that their heightened sensitivity helped them to establish relational depth with clients quickly and that they had an intuitive understanding of the nuances of clients' issues, which was often an embodied experience. They also spoke about the importance of processing time and setting boundaries to avoid burnout.

Conclusion

There is a need for increased awareness about SPS in counselling and psychotherapy training, supervision and practice. Future research may find it fruitful to explore whether SPS has an impact on therapeutic outcome.
More Than Referral: The Role of Faculty in Supporting Community College Student Mental Health
Authors: Latz Amanda O.
Published: November 2024

Community college faculty play a significant role in the educational lives of their students. The focus of this article is to outline the ways faculty can support their students' mental health beyond referring students to on‐ or off‐campus resources such as a counseling center or support group. Strategies faculty can use such as leveraging assessment data, deploying trauma‐informed pedagogies, and using micro‐counseling approaches are discussed.
Modulating Electronic Structure of MoS2 Nanosheets by Sulfide Enrichment‐Induced Vacancies for Enhanced Photocatalytic Hydrogen Production
Authors: Chen Xingyun , Li Zhenghao , Yuan Jiangyan , Hao Xuqiang
Published: November 2024

Enhancing photocatalytic activity by changing the electronic structure of the catalyst is an effective strategy. 2H‐MoS2 has semiconductor properties, and its unsaturated side S atom is the main active site for its photocatalytic activity. However, due to the weak S─H bond energy, its hydrogen adsorption capacity is weak. In this work, the electronic structure of MoS2 is adjusted by S‐rich treatment, resulting in the formation of Mo vacancy (MoS2‐VMo). The level of Mo vacancies was assessed using UV–vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (UV–vis DRS). As these vacancies can capture certain photogenerated electrons, thereby reducing the recombination of electron‐hole pairs. Through DFT calculation, it is found that the antibonding orbital electron filling of MoS2‐VMo is weakened, the bond energy of S─Mo bond is weakened, and the bond energy between S─H bond is enhanced, which is more conducive to proton adsorption. The photocatalytic activity for hydrogen evolution of MoS2‐3, which underwent the optimal S‐rich treatment, achieved a remarkable rate of 2404.6 µmol g−1 h−1 in dye eosin Y (EY) sensitization system, significantly surpassing that of MoS2 lacking the S‐enriched treatment. This study introduces a novel concept for enhancing the photocatalytic hydrogen evolution performance of metal sulfides via defect engineering.
Methodological and reporting quality of systematic and rapid reviews on human mpox and their utility during a public health emergency
Authors: Pussegoda Kusala , Israr Izza , Baumeister Austyn , Corrin Tricia , Sterian Melanie , Qamar Mavra , Samra Anmol , Waddell Lisa
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Evidence syntheses were rapidly produced during the 2022 mpox outbreak despite a lack of studies. The aim of this methodological study was to assess the quality and utility of the evidence syntheses produced during the first 6 months of the outbreak compared to those published before it.

Methods

Human mpox evidence syntheses available before December 31, 2022 were retrieved from PubMed, Scopus, EuropePMC, SSRN, and arXiv. Study characteristics, utility, methodological, and reporting quality (AMSTAR‐2 and PRISMA) were contrasted between syntheses produced before the 2022 outbreak (historical) and during the first 6 months (new). Results were synthesized narratively.

Results

Twenty‐six evidence syntheses were included; two historical systematic reviews (SRs) and 24 new SRs, rapid reviews, scoping reviews, and mislabelled syntheses. Median time from search to publication/preprint post date was 68 and 6 weeks for historical and new syntheses, respectively. Among the new syntheses, 8% (2/24) did not include evidence from the 2022 outbreak, 33% (8/24) included only new evidence and 58% (14/24) included both new and historical evidence. Only 29% of new syntheses contrasted findings between new and historical evidence. Methodological quality was critically low for 100% of historical syntheses and 92% of new syntheses and the remainder (8%) were low. Reporting quality was poor with a median of 10.5 (range 10–11) and 11.5 (range 4–21) of 27 items reported sufficiently by historical and new syntheses, respectively.

Conclusions

Evidence syntheses take time to produce and during an emergent outbreak they are often outdated at the time of publication and suffer from poor adherence to methodological and reporting guidelines. Overlapping content and few new studies resulted in minimal added value to the mpox literature. Strategies to reduce duplication and mechanisms to produce and disseminate continuously updated living evidence syntheses need to be explored to support decision‐makers responding to an emergency.
Free Alcohol‐Mediated Radical Alkynylation and Allylation of Unactivated C(sp3)−H Bonds
Authors: Cao Zhu , Xu Yaohui , Wu Zhen , Wu Xinxin , Zhu Chen
Published: November 2024

The daunting challenges in converting alcoholic O−H bonds with high bond‐dissociation energy (BDE) to alkoxy radicals and harnessing those unruly reaction species largely limit exploiting free alcohols in C(sp3)−H functionalization. Herein we describe a novel radical alkynylation and allylation of unactivated C(sp3)−H bonds with unmodified aliphatic alcohols. The use of phenyliodine bis(trifluoroacetate) (PIFA) enables the formation of alkoxy radicals under mild photochemical conditions. α‐Methyl styrene serves as a sacrificial‐reagent that significantly improves the reaction outcomes. This transition‐metal free protocol further features broad substrate scope, exclusive site‐selectivity, high product diversity, and simple operation, supplying a robust manifold for C(sp3)−H functionalization using easily available aliphatic alcohols as feedstock.
Simultaneously Optimizing Molecular Stacking and Phase Separation via Solvent‐Solid Hybrid Additives Enables Organic Solar Cells with over 19% Efficiency†
Authors: Liu Haicui , Shi Keli , Lai Jing , Jeong Seonghun , Zhu Can , Zhang Jinyuan , Zhang Zhi‐Guo , Yang Changduk , Qiu Beibei , Li Yongfang
Published: November 2024

Comprehensive Summary

Given the crucial role of film morphology in determining the photovoltaic parameters of organic solar cells (OSCs), solvent or solid additives have been widely used to realize fine‐tuned film morphological features to further improve the performance of OSCs. However, most high‐performance OSCs are processed only using single component additive, either solvent additive or solid additive. Herein, a simple molecular building block, namely thieno[3,4‐b]thiophene (TT), was utilized as the solid additive to coordinate with the widely used solvent additive, 1‐chloronaphthalene (CN), to modulate the film morphology. Systematical investigations revealed that the addition of TT could prevent the excessive aggregation to form a delicate nanoscale phase separation, leading to enhanced charge transport and suppressed charge recombination, as well as superior photovoltaic performance. Consequently, the PM6:Y6 based OSCs with the addition of hybrid additive of CN + TT demonstrated the optimal PCE of 18.52%, with a notable FF of 79.6%. More impressively, the PM6:Y6:PC71BM based ternary OSCs treated with the hybrid additives delivered a remarkable efficiency of 19.05%, which ranks among the best values of Y6‐based OSCs reported so far. This work highlights the importance of the hybrid additive strategy in regulating the active layer morphology towards significantly improved performance.
Analyzing Pulse Compression Performance and Image Quality Metrics of Different Excitations in MAET With Magnetic Field Measurements
Authors: Gözü Mehmet Soner , Gençer Nevzat Güneri
Published: November 2024

This study investigates the pulse compression technique to improve the performance of magneto‐acousto‐electrical tomography (MAET) with magnetic field measurements through numerical studies. Emphasizing the effects of specific coil configuration on MAET measurements, the study conducts evaluations using a linear phased array (LPA) transducer and numerical breast models with tumor inclusion. It provides feasibility and a detailed comparative analysis of various excitations, including linear frequency modulated (LFM), Barker code, and Golay code excitations in MAET. To simulate experimental conditions, additive White Gaussian noise is added to the MAET signal detected by the receiver coils. The results obtained from the LPA steering angle at 0° and the reconstructed B‐mode MAET images using the pulse compression technique lead to improvements compared with conventional single‐cycle excitation. The computed mean signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) improvements for LFM, Barker code, and Golay code excitations in B‐mode MAET images for 10,000 iterations are 7.42, 8.36, and 8.44 dB, respectively, compared with single‐cycle excitation. Similarly, the mean contrast‐to‐noise ratio (CNR) improvements for these excitations in B‐mode MAET images are 1.43, 1.63, and 1.9 dB, respectively. The results demonstrate that Golay code is superior in CNR and image quality metrics, while Golay and Barker codes have comparable SNR and outperform LFM. The research shows that the coil configuration significantly impacts tumor detection. With Golay code excitation, detecting a tumor as small as 5 mm × 2 mm at a depth of 33 mm with an SNR of 6.38 dB is possible, achieving an axial resolution of 2 mm.
An Abstract Modeling Framework for One‐ and Two‐Ports
Authors: Riaza Ricardo
Published: November 2024

This paper discusses an analytical framework to model one‐ and two‐ports in a way which avoids prioritizing either the voltage or the current as model variables. This approach allows for a truly general symbolic treatment of such circuits, avoiding the need to perform repetitive analyses in different working scenarios, and also displays a number of benefits from a theoretical point of view. The key ingredient is a homogeneous version of the Thévenin–Norton theorem for one‐ports which possibly include controlled sources and coupling effects. This paves the way for the introduction of a comprehensive form for the transfer functions and the driving point immittances of two‐ports, accounting for all possible impedance/admittance descriptions of the devices connected at the ports and also of the internal devices. Our framework allows, for example, for a universal definition of reciprocity but also for a straightforward derivation of Middlebrook's formulae in the context of the extra element theorem. Several examples illustrate the results.
Squamous Cells in Thyroid Cytology and Their Clinical Significance: A Multi‐Institutional Study
Authors: Pedro Brian A. , Harjunpää Iiris , Young Eric , Mirsadraei Leili , Kholová Ivana , Maleki Zahra
Published: November 2024

Background

Squamous cells are uncommon in thyroid fine needle aspirations (FNAs) presenting diagnostic challenges. We report our multi‐institutional experience.

Materials and Method

The electronic data were searched for thyroid FNAs containing squamous cells at the Johns Hopkins Medicine, New York University Langone Hospital, United States, and Fimlab Laboratories, Finland (2001–2023). The patients' demographics, clinical history, and pathologic diagnosis were recorded.

Results

One hundred and seven cases (103 patients) were identified 35 males and 68 females (median age 58 years). Forty‐eight cases (44.9%) were malignant, primary carcinomas with squamous features, such as anaplastic thyroid carcinoma (ATC), and metastatic or directly invasive squamous cell carcinomas (SqCC) including oral, oropharyngeal (HPV‐related), esophageal, and laryngeal SqCC. Twenty‐seven cases (25.2%) contained benign squamous cells with cystic background, suggestive of developmental cysts. Nineteen cases (17.8%) contained metaplastic benign squamous cells within an adenomatoid nodule. Seven cases (6.5%) contained atypical squamous cells. Four cases (3.7%) showed squamous cells with bacterial or fungal organisms, suggestive of esophageal fistula/diverticulum, and two cases (1.9%) contained benign squamous cells with unknown source. Thirty‐six cases had surgical follow‐up, 33 (91.7%) were concordant (23 metastatic or directly invasive SqCC, 8 undifferentiated/ATC, and 10 papillary thyroid carcinoma). Ancillary studies were used confirming HPV‐related SqCC, or therapeutic targets (BRAF V600E), with highly variable staining in ATC.

Conclusion

Squamous cells in thyroid FNAs carry a broad differential diagnosis with variable prognoses. It is crucial to interpret squamous cells in the context of clinical and radiographic findings for optimal patient care.
DOT issues landmark fine for improper treatment of disabled airline passengers
Authors: Lyerly Eric
Published: November 2024

Earlier this year, Disability Compliance for Higher Education reported on a proposed rule from the U.S. Department of Transportation that would make airline travel more accessible. We noted that such a rule could make air travel more accessible for students, staff, and faculty with disabilities.
Microplastics alter the functioning of marine microbial ecosystems
Authors: Montoya Daniel , Rastelli Eugenio , Casotti Raffaella , Manna Vincenzo , Trano Anna Chiara , Balestra Cecilia , Santinelli Chiara , Saggiomo Maria , Sansone Clementina , Corinaldesi Cinzia , Montoya Jose M. , Brunet Christophe
Published: November 2024

Microplastics pervade ocean ecosystems. Despite their effects on individuals or populations are well documented, the consequences of microplastics on ecosystem functioning are still largely unknown. Here, we show how microplastics alter the structure and functioning of pelagic microbial ecosystems. Using experimental pelagic mesocosms, we found that microplastics indirectly affect marine productivity by changing the bacterial and phytoplankton assemblages. Specifically, the addition of microplastics increased phytoplankton biomass and shifted bacterial assemblages' composition. Such changes altered the interactions between heterotrophic and autotrophic microbes and the cycling of ammonia in the water column, which ultimately benefited photosynthetic efficiency. The effects of microplastics on marine productivity were consistent for different microplastic types. This study demonstrates that microplastics affect bacteria and phytoplankton communities and influence marine productivity, which ultimately alters the functioning of the whole ocean ecosystem.
A Hardware Chaotic Neural Network With Gap Junction Models
Authors: Yamaguchi Takuto , Saeki Katsutoshi
Published: November 2024

We aim at the engineering applications of reservoir computing using hardware chaotic neural networks, including associative memory recall. The reservoir layer used in reservoir computing is networked and constructed using pulse‐type hardware chaos neuron models (P‐HCNMs). The structure of the reservoir layer is simple, which is advantageous for hardware implementation. By inducing chaos in the reservoir layer, it is possible to use the “chaotic edge” where the reservoir reaches its highest efficiency. It has also been reported that incorporating self‐correction within the reservoir layer increases the efficiency of the task. In this paper, we constructed a hardware small‐world neural network using a synaptic model with spike timing‐dependent synaptic plasticity (STDP) and a gap junction model. As a result, it is clarified that all cell body models with synaptic model connections show chaotic firing by simulation at the same time, and that the STDP model enables learning while keeping the chaotic phenomena. In addition, comparison with the firing of cell body models coupled only with synaptic models suggested that the gap junction model works significantly in inducing chaos in neural networks.
Variation in forest patch habitat quality for white‐footed mice driven by invasive plants in an urbanizing landscape
Authors: Busala Gianna M. , Phillips Payton M. , Behm Jocelyn E.
Published: November 2024

The habitat quality of urban forest patches is determined by the composition and structure of vegetation which in turn affects the quality of trophic resources and shelter provided for wildlife species. In addition, urban development in the landscape surrounding forest patches can affect species' movement between patches, further influencing habitat quality. Understanding how species respond to variation in habitat quality among urban forest patches is especially important for species that contribute to ecosystem services and disservices for urban residents. Here, we assessed habitat quality provided by urban forest patches for white‐footed mice (Peromyscus leucopus) because they are one of the key reservoir species for Lyme disease and they influence disease dilution ecosystem services provided by mammal communities. We examined variation in vegetation composition and structure in forest patches across a gradient of landscape‐scale urban development in and around Philadelphia, PA, USA. In particular, we focused on shifts in vegetation composition and structure associated with invasive understory shrubs given their prevalence in our study system. We then quantified the numerical (index of relative abundance) and morphological responses of white‐footed mice to variation in habitat quality. While we observed no significant effects of environmental variables on our index of mouse relative abundance in forest patches, environmental variables associated with vegetation structure and composition were associated with shifts in mouse morphology. Most notably, mice were larger at sites with more invasive shrub species. This indicates that invasive understory shrubs may be creating higher‐quality habitat for white‐footed mice. Because larger‐bodied mice are likely to feed more ticks, this result has significant implications for Lyme disease dynamics in urban areas, such as amplified transmission.
Variation in habitat selection among individuals differs by maternal status for moose in a region with low calf survival
Authors: Droghini Amanda , Nawrocki Timm W. , Stetz Jeffrey B. , Schuette Paul A. , Aderman Andrew R. , Colson Kassidy E.
Published: November 2024

Foraging behaviors often involve trade‐offs between predation risk and access to forage. Risk‐forage trade‐offs may be particularly acute for maternal female ungulates, whose nutritional needs are high and whose calves are highly vulnerable to predation. In moose, the selection of calving habitat is one way in which females can respond to these trade‐offs. Our objective was to compare among‐individual variation in selected habitat for maternal and nonmaternal female moose during the calving season. We hypothesized that, compared to nonmaternal females, maternal females would exhibit a greater range of variation among individuals, which may signal differential responses to risk‐forage trade‐offs. Meanwhile, we expected nonmaternal females to show comparatively less variation among individuals, consistent with a group primarily maximizing forage intake. To test our hypotheses, we used a path selection framework and a set of continuous remotely sensed map covariates to build predictive models and corresponding spatial predictions for maternal and nonmaternal groups. We then calculated the range of variation among individuals within each group along a relative unitless axis, which we call the “maternal difference index” and define as the divergence of predicted maternal habitat selection from nonmaternal habitat selection. We included 10,080 GPS collar locations for 24 female moose over three consecutive years. Our predictive models had high levels of accuracy (>75%) based both on independent test partitions of a nested cross‐validation and on independent very high frequency (VHF) location data, each including spatial and temporal replication. Both groups of females preferred areas where primary forage species were abundant, diverse, and within foraging height. Habitat selected by the maternal group both overlapped and was broader than habitat selected by the nonmaternal group. Based on the maternal difference index, maternal individuals were less consistent in their habitat selection than nonmaternal individuals. Given that habitat selection behaviors are one way in which animals respond to potential risk‐forage trade‐offs and that maternal individuals in our study differed along a continuum in their selection for primary forage species, we suggest that the concept of maternal trade‐offs, as it relates to habitat selection, is most useful when seen as individually determined and variable, rather than group‐determined and discrete.
The role of natural resources rent, energy efficiency and governance in reducing pollution – New evidence with MMQR method
Authors: Kadir Musbau Omotola , Deka Abraham , Ozdeser Huseyin , Seraj Mehdi
Published: November 2024

The question on whether natural resources are a curse or not remain with no satisfactory answer. There are two opposing school of thoughts on the role of natural resources rent in fostering sustainable development, that is, the natural resource curse and Rostow's hypothesis. The study uses the data of the 15 natural resources‐rich African countries, for the period ranging from 1990 to 2021. The Methods of Moments Quantile Regression with fixed effects, a contemporary method that gives heterogeneous results across quantiles is employed to ensure robust outcomes. Cross‐sectional dependence, dynamics and heterogeneity are catered for in the model. The major results presented in this research shows that the rule of law is fundamental in reducing pollution. Energy efficiency and the use of renewable energy resources is also observed to strongly lower the emission of carbon. Most importantly, the study results depict that natural resources rent exacerbates carbon emission; hence, supporting the postulations of the resources curse hypothesis that natural resources are counter‐productive. We also show that economic growth, along with non‐renewable energy worsens pollution. The major policies presented in this research are to promote renewable energy use, rule of law and efficient use of energy to attain sustainable development. This research bridges the gap in the literature by examining the effects of natural resources rent on carbon emission, a study that has not been widely covered. The present research also brings the importance of governance in reducing pollution in the natural resources‐rich African countries.
A systematic review and meta‐analysis of eating disorder preventative interventions in schools
Authors: Berry Sophie L. , Burton Amy L. , Rogers Kris , Lee Carissa M. , Berle David M.
Published: November 2024

Objective

Adolescents are particularly susceptible to developing an eating disorder (ED). Therefore, schools are in a unique position to assist in the prevention of EDs for this vulnerable group. To ascertain the current evidence‐base for school‐based ED prevention efforts, we conducted a systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomised controlled trials that delivered a school‐based ED prevention intervention and assessed the impact these interventions had on ED symptomatology.

Method

Electronic databases (PsycINFO, MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science, Scopus and CENTRAL) were searched for published randomised controlled trials of school‐based ED prevention interventions from inception to 2024. Twelve studies from 11 articles were identified with 7935 participants (mean ages ranging from 12 to 17). Of these studies, six were included in meta‐analyses.

Results

Media literacy and dissonance‐based interventions reported small to medium effects for ED symptomatology compared to controls at post‐intervention. At three‐to‐six‐month follow‐up, intervention groups reported small negative to medium‐sized positive effects compared to control groups on eating disorder symptomatology.

Conclusions

While school‐based ED prevention interventions can effectively reduce ED symptomatology post‐intervention, the programs analysed in this review do not reliably demonstrate effectiveness across groups and time. Future research should build upon current interventions to increase effectiveness and include long‐term follow‐ups.
Leukocyte Platelet‐Rich Plasma‐Derived Exosomes Restrained Macrophages Viability and Induced Apoptosis, NO Generation, and M1 Polarization
Authors: Li Xiong , Guo Feifei , Deng Jiehua , Li Jiasong , Zhang Jie , Fu Ming , Fan Hui
Published: November 2024

Background

Chronic refractory wounds refer to wounds that cannot be repaired timely. Platelet‐rich plasma (PRP) has significant potential in chronic wound healing therapy. The exosomes isolated from PRP were proved to exhibit more effectiveness than PRP. However, the therapeutic potential of exosomes from PRP on chronic refractory wounds remained elusive. Hence, this study aimed to clarify the action of exosomes from PRP on chronic refractory wounds by evaluating the response of macrophages to exosomes.

Methods

Pure platelet‐rich plasma (P‐PRP) and leukocyte platelet‐rich plasma (L‐PRP) were prepared from the fasting venous blood of healthy volunteers. Exosomes were extracted from P‐PRP and L‐PRP using ultracentrifugation and identified by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA), and western blot. Macrophages were obtained by inducing THP‐1 cells with phorbol‐12‐myristate‐13 acetate (PMA). The internalization of exosomes into macrophages was observed utilizing confocal laser scanning microscopy after being labeled with PKH67. Cell viability was determined by CCK‐8 assay. Cell apoptosis was measured utilizing a flow cytometer. The polarization status of M1 and M2 macrophages were evaluated by detecting their markers. Nitric oxide (NO) detection was conducted using the commercial kit.

Results

Exosomes from P‐PRP and L‐PRP were absorbed by macrophages. Exosomes from L‐PRP restrained viability and induced apoptosis of macrophages. Besides, exosomes from P‐PRP promoted M2 polarization, and exosomes from L‐PRP promoted M1 polarization. Furthermore, exosomes from L‐PRP promoted NO generation of macrophages.

Conclusion

Exosomes from L‐PRP restrained viability, induced apoptosis and NO generation of macrophages, and promoted M1 polarization, while exosomes from P‐PRP increased M2 polarization. The exosomes from L‐PRP presented a more effective effect on macrophages than that from P‐PRP, making it a promising strategy for chronic refractory wound management.
Pure Point Diffraction and Almost Periodicity
Authors: Lenz Daniel , Spindeler Timo , Strungaru Nicolae
Published: November 2024

This article deals with pure point diffraction and its connection to various notions of almost periodicity. We explain why the Fibonacci chain does not fit into the classical concept of Bohr almost periodicity and how it fits into the classes of mean, Besicovitch and Weyl almost periodic point sets. We report on recent results which characterize pure point diffraction as mean almost periodicity of the underlying structure, and discuss how the complex amplitudes fit into this picture.
Pineal gland volume in children with intellectual disability
Authors: Gürbüz Asiye Arıcı , Altun Hatice , Tahiroğlu Ayşegül Yolga , Mert Gülen Gül , Kızıldağ Betül , Arslan Semiha Cömertoğlu
Published: November 2024

Objective

Pineal gland volume (PGV), which is associated with sleep and circadian rhythm, is known to be changed in some psychiatric disorders such as major depression, mood disorders and schizophrenia. This study aimed to compare the PGV of children with mild and moderate intellectual disability (ID) and healthy children.

Methods

This multicentre retrospective study included 40 children with ID (patient group), aged 6–12 years and 40 age‐ and sex‐matched healthy children (control group). The children were examined for their sociodemographic characteristics and for PGV using magnetic resonance imaging.

Results

The PGV of the patient group was significantly larger than that of the controls (p = 0.023). There was no statistically significant difference in PGV between mild and moderate ID. A moderate and positive correlation was found between Weschler Intelligence Scale for Children‐revised (WISC‐R) performance score and PGV (p = 0.049, r = 0.313) only in the patient group. In the receiver operating characteristic analysis, the area under the curve was 0.648, and the sensitivity was 70.0%, and the specificity was 60.0%.

Conclusions

In conclusion, this study demonstrated that the increased PGV levels were associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and PGV could be a risk factor in the aetiology of ID. Further research with larger sample sizes is needed to clarify this issue.
Engineering students' interests in nonprofit and public policy careers: Applying a data‐driven approach to identifying contributing factors
Authors: Kim Dayoung , Katz Andrew
Published: November 2024

Background

Engineering students have an array of career opportunities they can pursue. Some of these opportunities will place them in different sectors of the economy. Whereas many may want to pursue careers in the private/corporate sector, there are important roles for engineers to play in the nonprofit/NGO sector and the public policy/government sector.

Purpose/Hypothesis

The aim of this research was to use a data‐driven approach to understanding factors associated with engineering students' likelihood of pursuing careers in the nonprofit/NGO and public policy/government sectors.

Methods

We analyzed data from a national survey of final‐year engineering students. We used a data‐driven approach combining an ordinal random forest, projection predictive variable selection, and ordinal logistic regression analysis.

Results

The importance of certain factors in the students' career satisfaction (e.g., helping others, volunteering with a charity group) was the most predictive item for students pursuing careers in the nonprofit/NGO sector. The importance of making money was negatively associated with students pursuing careers in the nonprofit/NGO sector. Conversely, the students' interest in working on certain topics (e.g., terrorism and war, climate change) was the most predictive for those pursuing careers in the public policy/government sector. Certain academic majors were also positively associated with students' likelihood of joining the public policy/government sector. Job security was also an influential factor for pursuing careers in both sectors.

Conclusion

This study highlights important but understudied areas for workforce development in alternative career paths beyond the private sector, which could potentially contribute to broadening participation in engineering.
Daily physical activity following unicompartmental knee arthroplasty: A pilot study
Authors: Wu Kevin A. , Dilbone Eric S. , Kugelman David N. , Goel Rahul K. , Ryan Sean P. , Wellman Samuel S. , Bolognesi Michael P. , Seyler Thorsten M.
Published: November 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to understand how objective measures of daily activity change following unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA). Objective data on post‐operative changes in daily physical activity following UKA are limited, highlighting the need for studies using wearable technologies to provide real‐time assessments of recovery.

Methods

This pilot study included a secondary analysis of a prospective study of 33 consecutive UKA patients, with data collected using an Apple Watch and a digital care management application. Objective metrics, including step count, steadiness, standing duration and performance on the six‐minute walk test, were analyzed at different post‐operative time points. Descriptive statistics and the Wilcoxon signed‐rank test were used for analysis.

Results

Post‐operatively, there was a significant increase in daily step count at 6 weeks (p = 0.017), 6 months (p < 0.001) and 12 months (p = 0.0018). Steadiness improved significantly at 6 months (p = 0.049) and 12 months (p = 0.039) post‐operatively. Standing duration increased significantly at all the post‐operative time points (p < 0.001). Gait speed did not show significant changes post‐operatively. The estimated six‐minute walk test distance improved significantly at 6 months (p = 0.027) and 12 months (p = 0.031) post‐operatively.

Conclusion

The study findings suggest that UKA improves daily physical activity levels, reflected by enhanced mobility and function. While gait speed did not significantly change, improvements in step count, steadiness, standing duration and the six‐minute walk test distance indicate enhanced functional capacity and endurance post‐operatively. The study highlights the benefits of UKA in improving functional outcomes in patients with knee osteoarthritis. Further research with larger sample sizes and longer follow‐ups is warranted to confirm these findings.

Levels of Evidence

II.
Size matters: Biomolecular compositions of small and large extracellular vesicles in the urine of glioblastoma patients
Authors: Hallal Susannah M. , Sida Liam A. , Tűzesi Ágota , Shivalingam Brindha , Sim Hao‐Wen , Buckland Michael E. , Satgunaseelan Laveniya , Alexander Kimberley L.
Published: November 2024

The promise of urinary extracellular vesicles (uEVs) in biomarker discovery is emerging. However, the characteristics and compositions of different uEV subpopulations across normal physiological and pathological states require rigorous explication. We recently reported proteomic signatures of small (s)‐uEVs (<200 nm membranous nanoparticles) and described putative biomarkers corresponding to the diagnosis, tumour burden and recurrence of the lethal adult primary brain tumour, glioblastoma. Here, we comprehensively characterise uEV populations with significantly different mean and mode particle sizes obtained by differential centrifugation at 100,000 × g (100K‐uEVs; smaller) and 17,000 × g (17K‐uEVs; larger) using Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy and quantitative data‐independent acquisition mass spectrometry. We show distinct differences in protein and lipid content, prominent protein secondary structures, and proteome distributions between uEV populations that can distinguish glioblastoma patients from healthy controls and correspond to clinically relevant tumour changes (i.e., recurrence and treatment resistance). Among the key findings is a putative seven‐protein biomarker panel associated with 17K‐uEVs that could distinguish all glioblastoma patients from healthy controls and accurately classify 98.2% of glioblastoma samples. These novel, significant findings demonstrate that both uEV populations offer individual and combined biomarker potential. Further research is warranted to elucidate the complete diagnostic, prognostic, and predictive capabilities of often‐neglected 17K‐uEV populations.
The Ultrastructure of Spermiogenesis Within the Seminiferous Epithelium of the Texas Horned Lizard, Phrynosoma cornutum (Phrynosomatidae)
Authors: Gribbins Kevin M. , Rajaguru Sethmini , Rheubert Justin L. , Trauth Stanley E.
Published: November 2024

Currently, there is limited histological data for spermatid morphologies within the testes of squamates. There are only 10 species of lizard that have complete ultrastructural data across the entire process of spermiogenesis, including several species of Sceloporus. These studies have shown that differences can be seen between spermatids of saurians within the same family or genus. Thus, the present study continues to test the hypothesis that differences exist in spermatid morphology between species within the same family. We collected five Phrynosoma cornutum males from Arizona. Their testes were extracted and processed with standard TEM techniques. Many of the characteristics of spermiogenesis within P. cornutum are conserved and similar in morphology to other phrynosomatid lizards. These similarities include the development of the acrosome, perforatorium, subacrosomal cone, nuclear rostrum, and epinuclear lucent zone. However, there were also differences observed in P. cornutum spermatids that are distinct compared to other phyrnosomatids. For example, P. cornutum spermatids include a wider and more robust perforatorium and less spiraling of the chromatin during condensation than that of other phrynosomatid lizards. The present results corroborate previous studies and indicate that even with morphological conservation within saurian spermatids, character differences between species can be recognized. Further studies on spermiogenesis are required to judge the relevance of these ontogenetic changes in terms of using them in amniotic or squamate spermatid/spermatozoa phylogenic analysis.
Seizure Burden and Clinical Risk Factors in Glioma‐Related Epilepsy: Insights From MRI Voxel‐Based Lesion‐Symptom Mapping
Authors: Li Tianshi , Li Qiuling , Fan Xing , Wang Lei , You Gan
Published: November 2024

Background

Epilepsy is the most common preoperative symptom in patients with supratentorial gliomas. Identifying tumor locations and clinical factors associated with preoperative epilepsy is important for understanding seizure risk.

Purpose

To investigate the key brain areas and risk factors associated with preoperative seizures in glioma patients.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Population

A total of 735 patients with primary diffuse supratentorial gliomas (372 low grade; 363 high grade) with preoperative MRI and pathology data.

Field Strength/Sequence

Axial T2‐weighted fast spin‐echo sequence at 3.0 T.

Assessment

Seizure burden was defined as the number of preoperative seizures within 6 months. Tumor and high‐signal edema areas on T2 images were considered involved regions. A voxel‐based lesion‐symptom mapping analysis was used to identify voxels associated with seizure burden. The involvement of peak voxels (those most associated with seizure burden) and clinical factors were assessed as risk factors for preoperative seizure.

Statistical Tests

Univariable and multivariable binary and ordinal logistic regression analyses and chi‐square tests were performed, with results reported as odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals. A P‐value <0.05 was considered significant.

Results

A total of 448 patients experienced preoperative seizures. Significant seizure burden‐related voxels were located in the right hippocampus and left insular cortex (based on 1000 permutation tests), with significant differences observed in both low‐ and high‐grade tumors. Tumor involvement in the peak voxel region was an independent risk factor for an increased burden of preoperative seizures (OR = 6.98). Additionally, multivariable binary logistic regression results indicated that 1p/19q codeletion (OR = 1.51), intermediate tumor volume (24.299–97.066 cm3), and involvement of the peak voxel (OR = 6.06) were independent risk factors for preoperative glioma‐related epilepsy.

Conclusion

Voxel areas identified through voxel‐based lesion‐symptom mapping analysis, along with clinical factors, show associations with clinical seizure burden, offering insights for assessing seizure burden for glioma patients.

Level of Evidence

4

Technical Efficacy

Stage 1
Inducible displacement of cementless total knee arthroplasty components with conventional and weight‐bearing CT‐based radiostereometric analysis
Authors: Hext Rebecca A. , Kaptein Bart L. , Howard James L. , Lanting Brent A. , Teeter Matthew G.
Published: November 2024

Aseptic loosening remains one of the top causes of revision surgery of total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Radiostereometric analysis (RSA) is used in research to measure implant migration, however limitations prevent its clinical use. New methods have allowed the same measurements as RSA to be performed with computed tomography (CT) scanners (CT‐RSA). The objective of this study is to determine inducible displacement measurements from weight‐bearing computed tomography (WBCT) and conventional RSA to assess implant stability. Participants (n = 17) completed RSA exams in the supine and standing position, and WBCT exams in the seated (leg extended) and standing position. Double examinations were performed in the seated (WBCT) or supine (RSA) positions. Inducible displacements were measured with model‐based RSA (MBRSA) for RSA exams, and a novel CT‐RSA software, V3MA, for WBCT exams. Precision of each technique was calculated between double examinations. Precision data for tibial component total translations and rotations were 0.05 mm and 0.118°, respectively with WBCT‐RSA, and were 0.108 mm and 0.269°, respectively with MBRSA. MTPM precision was 0.141 mm with WBCT‐RSA and was 0.168 mm with MBRSA. Inducible displacement MTPM of the tibial component was 0.244 ± 0.220 mm with WBCT‐RSA and 0.662 ± 0.257 mm with MBRSA. Inducible displacement measurements with MBRSA were significantly different from WBCT‐RSA for tibial component anterior tilt (p = 0.0002). WBCT‐RSA demonstrated comparable precision to MBRSA, and both techniques measured inducible displacements consistent with stable components. Clinical Significance: As the availability of WBCT increases, its use as an alternative to MBRSA is supported to measure the instantaneous fixation of implant components.
Continuous step‐wise temperature extraction improves the flavanol content of tea beverages
Authors: Ismaiah Marsena Jasiel , Lau Kin Tak , Tsui Jacob Shing‐Jie , Johnson‐Hill Winifred Audrey , Leung Kin Sum , Lee Jetty Chung‐Yung
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND

Tea is the second most consumed beverage worldwide and its health benefits have been extensively studied because of its rich flavanol content. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of a novel continuous step‐wise temperature extraction process in maximising antioxidant activity, total phenolic content and flavanol concentration of different tea beverages.

RESULTS

Continuous step‐wise temperature extraction produced the highest absolute antioxidant capacity, total phenolic content and concentration of major tea flavanols in Yuhua tea compared to the other tea types at all extraction points. Despite having the lowest baseline concentration of tea flavanols, Lapsang Souchong tea showed the greatest increase in catechin and epigallocatechin‐3‐gallate levels with the continuous step‐down temperature process, by over 500% and 300%, respectively. In addition, Moonlight White tea showed the greatest percentage change in total antioxidant capacity and phenolic content at the end of the process compared to the baseline. Furthermore, the continuous step‐wise temperature extraction showed a moderate increase in caffeine concentration in all the tea samples.

CONCLUSION

Our findings revealed a beneficial impact of continuous step‐wise temperature extraction on the antioxidant capacity, phenolic content and flavanol profile in different types of tea, which may be valuable in the production of added‐value tea beverages. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Reducing stereo ray‐tracing budget with 3D warping and perception‐driven reconstruction
Authors: Shen Zhongye , Chen Chunyi , Hu Haiyang , Liu Yunbiao , Zhang Ripei
Published: November 2024

Monte Carlo ray tracing can produce high‐fidelity stereo renderings of 3D scenes. However, the computational costs associated with shading indirect illumination can be prohibitively expensive. While techniques like reprojection and reconstruction have been employed to reduce the inherent redundancy in stereo rendering, they often fall short in addressing issues like remaining holes and appearing artifacts, particularly in the case of specular reflections. In this paper, we introduce a stereo rendering method that leverages both ray tracing and 3D warping, incorporating techniques for reusing indirect illumination calculations and perception‐driven reconstructions. At the pre‐rendering stage, we reuse indirect illumination calculations in the background and 3D warping regions, resulting in significant savings of indirect illumination calculations in the testing scenes. For the remaining holes, we adopt a sparse sampling strategy for representative pixels, guided by saliency maps. We iteratively reconstruct indirect illumination, employing a stopping criterion based on just noticeable difference thresholds. Through equal‐sample experiments, we showcase the efficiency achieved by the proposed method in reducing high‐level sampling costs for 87.688% ~ 99.581% regions of the test scenes. Furthermore, the proposed method excels in accurately rendering both diffuse and specular reflections, ultimately enhancing the overall visual perception quality.