bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Full‐Component Utilization of Cellulose Nanofibrils and Artificial Stone Waste for Cement Enhancement
Authors: Zhou Bo , Huang Xin , Yang Xin , Liu Jize , Huang Zhuo , Yu Feifan , Zhang Xinxing
Published: August 2024

With the concept of carbon neutrality, the value‐added utilization of biomass materials and solid waste becomes a cutting‐edge topic. Cellulose nanofibrils (CNFs) receive much attention due to their excellent properties in terms of high aspect ratio, specific strength, and specific surface area, but their large‐scale preparation remains a great challenge. Herein, a facile aqueous solution method is proposed for the fabrication of CNFs through artificial stone waste (ASW)‐assisted supramolecular interfacial interactions for the full‐component utilization in cement mortar materials. The strong hydrogen bonding interaction between ASW and CNFs can effectively prevent the intramolecular hydrogen bonding of CNFs and agglomeration of ASW, while improving the stability of CNF/ASW suspensions. The resulting CNFs/ASW with active hydroxyl or carboxyl group can improve the flexural and compressive strength of cement (30.8% and 37.8% higher than that of pristine cement, respectively) by embedding into the defects of cement mortar and promoting the hydration process of cement. In this work, not only a new idea is provided for the large‐scale preparation of biomass nanomaterials, but also the full‐component value‐added utilization of biomass and solid waste in cement materials is opened up.
Oxytocin Protects Nigrostriatal Dopamine Signal via Activating GABAergic Circuit in the MPTP‐Induced Parkinson's Disease Model
Authors: Wang Yurong , Xu Hao , Chen Saiyong , Chen Junhao , Zheng Qimeng , Ma Yuanyuan , Zhao Xinru , Shi Ying , Xiao Lei
Published: August 2024

The most pronounced neuropathological feature of Parkinson's disease (PD) is the loss of dopamine (DA) neurons in the substantia nigra compacta (SNc), which depletes striatal DA. Hypothalamic oxytocin is found to be reduced in PD patients and closely interacts with the DA system, but the role of oxytocin in PD remains unclear. Here, the disturbances of endogenous oxytocin level and the substantia nigra (SN) oxytocin receptor expression in the 1‐methyl‐4‐phenyl‐1,2,3,6‐tetrahydropyridine (MPTP)‐induced PD mouse model is observed, correlated with the striatal tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) expression reduction. Killing/silencing hypothalamic oxytocin neurons aggravates the vulnerability of nigrostriatal DA signal to MPTP, whereas elevating oxytocin level by intranasal delivery or microinjecting into the SN promotes the resistance. In addition, knocking out SN oxytocin receptors induces the time‐dependent reductions of SNc DA neurons, striatal TH expression, and striatal DA level by increasing neuronal excitotoxicity. These results further uncover that oxytocin dampens the excitatory synaptic inputs onto DA neurons via activating oxytocin receptor‐expressed SN GABA neurons, which target GABA(B) receptors expressed in SNc DA neuron‐projecting glutamatergic axons, to reduce excitotoxicity. Thus, besides the well‐known prosocial effect, oxytocin acts as a key endogenous factor in protecting the nigrostriatal DA system.
Ammonia Synthesis over Ruthenium Supported on Metastable Perovskite Oxyhydrides BaREO2H (RE = Y, Sc) Prepared by Mechanochemical Method
Authors: Sato Shun , Miyazaki Masayoshi , Matsuishi Satoru , Hosono Hideo , Kitano Masaaki
Published: August 2024

Oxyhydrides have attracted attention as materials with various unique properties derived from lattice hydride ions (H−). However, their instability makes synthesis by conventional thermal synthesis methods difficult, so an appropriate synthesis strategy is required. Here, the mechanochemical synthesis of perovskite oxyhydrides BaREO2H (RE = Y, Sc) for catalyst applications is reported. The formation of BaYO2H is known to be thermodynamically unstable; however, a mechanochemical process that inevitably proceeds under non‐equilibrium conditions enables the synthesis of such a metastable oxyhydride material without any heat treatment. Furthermore, BaScO2H, which is typically obtained at very high temperatures (1000 °C) and pressure (>4 GPa), is successfully synthesized at room temperature by the mechanochemical method. The ammonia synthesis reaction over these oxyhydrides supporting Ru is significantly enhanced at low temperatures, and the ammonia synthesis rates are significantly higher than conventional oxide‐supported Ru catalysts. The mechanochemically synthesized BaREO2H has many anionic electrons with low work function at the site of H− vacancies, which enables strong electron donation to Ru and the storage of excess hydrogen adatoms from the Ru surface that results in high catalytic performance.
Multiparametric Characterization of Focal Cortical Dysplasia Using 3D MR Fingerprinting
Authors: Su Ting‐Yu , Choi Joon Yul , Hu Siyuan , Wang Xiaofeng , Blümcke Ingmar , Chiprean Katherine , Krishnan Balu , Ding Zheng , Sakaie Ken , Murakami Hiroatsu , Alexopoulos Andreas V , Najm Imad , Jones Stephen E , Ma Dan , Wang Zhong Irene
Published: August 2024

Objective

To develop a multiparametric machine‐learning (ML) framework using high‐resolution 3 dimensional (3D) magnetic resonance (MR) fingerprinting (MRF) data for quantitative characterization of focal cortical dysplasia (FCD).

Materials

We included 119 subjects, 33 patients with focal epilepsy and histopathologically confirmed FCD, 60 age‐ and gender‐matched healthy controls (HCs), and 26 disease controls (DCs). Subjects underwent whole‐brain 3 Tesla MRF acquisition, the reconstruction of which generated T1 and T2 relaxometry maps. A 3D region of interest was manually created for each lesion, and z‐score normalization using HC data was performed. We conducted 2D classification with ensemble models using MRF T1 and T2 mean and standard deviation from gray matter and white matter for FCD versus controls. Subtype classification additionally incorporated entropy and uniformity of MRF metrics, as well as morphometric features from the morphometric analysis program (MAP). We translated 2D results to individual probabilities using the percentage of slices above an adaptive threshold. These probabilities and clinical variables were input into a support vector machine for individual‐level classification. Fivefold cross‐validation was performed and performance metrics were reported using receiver‐operating‐characteristic‐curve analyses.

Results

FCD versus HC classification yielded mean sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of 0.945, 0.980, and 0.962, respectively; FCD versus DC classification achieved 0.918, 0.965, and 0.939. In comparison, visual review of the clinical magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) detected 48% (16/33) of the lesions by official radiology report. In the subgroup where both clinical MRI and MAP were negative, the MRF‐ML models correctly distinguished FCD patients from HCs and DCs in 98.3% of cross‐validation trials. Type II versus non‐type‐II classification exhibited mean sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of 0.835, 0.823, and 0.83, respectively; type IIa versus IIb classification showed 0.85, 0.9, and 0.87. In comparison, the transmantle sign was present in 58% (7/12) of the IIb cases.

Interpretation

The MRF‐ML framework presented in this study demonstrated strong efficacy in noninvasively classifying FCD from normal cortex and distinguishing FCD subtypes. ANN NEUROL 2024;96:944–957
Disparity of turbinal bones in placental mammals
Authors: Martinez Quentin , Wright Mark , Dubourguier Benjamin , Ito Kai , van de Kamp Thomas , Hamann Elias , Zuber Marcus , Ferreira Gabriel , Blanc Rémi , Fabre Pierre‐Henri , Hautier Lionel , Amson Eli
Published: August 2024

Turbinals are key bony elements of the mammalian nasal cavity, involved in heat and moisture conservation as well as olfaction. While turbinals are well known in some groups, their diversity is poorly understood at the scale of placental mammals, which span 21 orders. Here, we investigated the turbinal bones and associated lamellae for one representative of each extant order of placental mammals. We segmented and isolated each independent turbinal and lamella and found an important diversity of variation in the number of turbinals, as well as their size, and shape. We found that the turbinal count varies widely, from zero in the La Plata dolphin, (Pontoporia blainvillei) to about 110 in the African bush elephant (Loxodonta africana). Multiple turbinal losses and additional gains took place along the phylogeny of placental mammals. Some changes are clearly attributed to ecological adaptation, while others are probably related to phylogenetic inertia. In addition, this work highlights the problem of turbinal nomenclature in some placental orders with numerous and highly complex turbinals, for which homologies are extremely difficult to resolve. Therefore, this work underscores the importance of developmental studies to better clarify turbinal homology and nomenclature and provides a standardized comparative framework for further research.
The use of a preference assessment tool with young children diagnosed with autism
Authors: Curiel Emily S. L. , Curiel Hugo
Published: August 2024

Identifying reinforcers is crucial for many evidence‐based behavior change programs. Videos may be a type of reinforcer worth considering given the accessibility of small electronic devices and the rates at which children watch and enjoy screen time. We used the Multiple‐Stimulus‐Without‐Replacement Preference Assessment Tool (MSWO PAT) to identify high‐ and low‐preferred videos for three children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). We then evaluated the predictive validity of the MSWO PAT by arranging a concurrent‐operants reinforcer assessment for puzzle and sorting tasks. The results show that the high‐preferred video maintained higher levels of responding for puzzle and sorting tasks for two of the three children. Implications for using videos as reinforcers for children with ASD, limitations, and areas for future research are also discussed.
Arsenic‐induced transition of thymic inflammation‐to‐fibrosis involves Stat3‐Twist1 interaction: Melatonin to the rescue
Authors: Das Ankur , Mitra Ankan , Ghosh Sourav , Sarkar Swaimanti , Pal Palash Kumar , Bandyopadhyay Debasish , Chattopadhyay Sreya
Published: August 2024

Groundwater arsenic is a notorious toxicant and exposure to environmentally relevant concentrations persists as a healthcare burden across the world. Arsenic has been reported to jeopardize the normal functioning of the immune system, but there are still gaps in the understanding of thymic T cell biology. Immunotoxic influence of arsenic in thymic integrity demands a potent restorative molecule. The objectives of this study were to examine key signaling cross‐talks associated with arsenic‐induced immune alterations in the thymus and propose melatonin as a potential candidate against immunological complications arising from arsenic exposure. Swiss albino mice were exposed to sodium arsenite (0.05 mg/L; in drinking water) and melatonin (IP:10 mg/kg BW) for 28 days. Melatonin successfully protected thymus from arsenic‐mediated tissue degeneration and maintained immune homeostasis including T cell maturation and proliferation by mitigating oxidative stress through Nrf2 upregulation. Additionally, melatonin exerted ameliorative effect against arsenic‐induced apoptosis and inflammation by inhibiting p53‐mediated mitochondrial cell death pathway and NF‐κB‐p65/STAT3‐mediated proinflammatory pathway, respectively. For the first time, we showed that arsenic‐induced profibrotic changes were inhibited by melatonin through targeting of inflammation‐associated EMT. Our findings clearly demonstrate that melatonin can be a viable and promising candidate in combating arsenic‐induced immune toxicity with no collateral damage, making it an important research target.
Photon energy loss in ternary polymer solar cells based on nonfullerene acceptor as a third component
Authors: Jeon Jihun , Hosoya Shohei , Saito Masahiko , Osaka Itaru , Ohkita Hideo , Kim Hyung Do
Published: August 2024

Understanding photon energy loss caused by the charge recombination in ternary blend polymer solar cells based on nonfullerene acceptors (NFAs) is crucial for achieving further improvements in their device performance. In such a ternary system, however, the two types of donor/acceptor interface coexist, making it more difficult to analyze the photon energy loss. Here, we have focused on the origin of the voltage loss behind a high open‐circuit voltage (VOC) in ternary blend devices based on one donor polymer (poly(2,5‐bis(3‐(2‐butyloctyl)thiophen‐2‐yl)‐thiazolo[5,4‐d]thiazole) [PTzBT]) and two acceptors, including a fullerene derivative ([6,6]‐phenyl‐C61‐butyric acid methyl ester [PCBM]) and an NFA ((2,2′‐((2Z,2′Z)‐(((4,4,9,9‐tetrakis(4‐hexylphenyl)‐4,9‐dihydro‐sindaceno[1,2‐b:5,6‐b′]dithiophene‐2,7‐diyl)bis(4‐((2‐ethylhexyl)oxy)thiophene‐5,2‐diyl))bis(methanylylidene))bis(5,6‐difluoro‐3‐oxo‐2,3‐dihydro‐1H‐indene‐2,1‐diylidene))dimalononitrile) [IEICO‐4F]), which exhibit VOC similar to that of fullerene‐based PTzBT/PCBM binary devices. From the temperature‐dependent VOC, we found that the effective interfacial bandgap is the same between them: the PTzBT/PCBM/IEICO‐4F ternary blend device is the same as the PTzBT/PCBM fullerene‐based binary device rather than the PTzBT/IEICO‐4F nonfullerene‐based binary device. This means that the recombination center of the ternary blend device is still the interface of PTzBT/PCBM regardless of the incorporation of a small amount of NFA. On the basis of detailed balance theory, we found that the radiative and nonradiative recombination voltage losses for PTzBT/PCBM/IEICO‐4F ternary devices significantly reduced compared to those of fullerene‐based PTzBT/PCBM binary counterparts. This is ascribed to the disappearance of charge transfer absorption due to overlap with the absorption of NFA and the reduction of energetic disorder due to the incorporation of NFA. Through this study, the role of NFAs in voltage loss is once again emphasized, and a ternary system capable of achieving high VOC resulting from significantly reduced voltage loss in ternary blend solar cells is proposed. Therefore, we believe that this research proposes the guidelines that can further enhance the power conversion efficiency of polymer solar cells.
Facing the COVID‐19 pandemic: An Italian feasibility study of a mixed in‐person/telerehabilitation intervention for cancer patients
Authors: Denti Monica , Pecorari Alessia , Accogli Monia A. , Costi Stefania , Mainini Carlotta , Pellegrini Martina , Boni Chiara , Barbara Bressi , Braglia Luca , Fugazzaro Stefania
Published: August 2024

Introduction

The COVID‐19 pandemic impacted healthcare organizations, necessitating a rapid transition from in‐person to virtual care.

Our study explored the feasibility of a mixed in‐person/telerehabilitation intervention for cancer patients and its effects on cancer‐related fatigue (CRF), quality of life (QoL), physical function, patient satisfaction, and perceived usefulness.

Methods

TRACE 2020 is an observational prospective study that enrolled adult cancer patients, between January 2021 and March 2023, who were eligible for a rehabilitation program to be provided also in telerehabilitation.

Patients were assessed at baseline and after the rehabilitation program. Adherence to sessions, reasons for non‐adherence and adverse events were collected.

Results

Of the 23 patients enrolled, 87% received a mixed intervention, with an average of 60% in‐person sessions and 40% telerehabilitation sessions. Adherence was very high (91%). Evaluation scales showed an improvement in CRF, QoL, and lower limb strength and a relevant increase in patients' level of physical activity (PA). Most patients reported good satisfaction; the few criticisms mainly concerned difficulties in connectivity, lack of physical contact and difficulties in understanding how to perform exercises during telerehabilitation sessions. The physiotherapist underlined the usefulness of the innovative approach and suggested ways to facilitate future implementation.

Conclusion

A mixed intervention including telerehabilitation is feasible and accepted by cancer patients. It may have a positive effect on their CRF, QoL, and level of PA and render patient care more flexible. The findings suggest what characteristics the target population for telerehabilitation should have, in order to integrate telerehabilitation in standard care for cancer patients.
Successful management of carinal shift in aortic dissection: A case report of innovative airway management strategies
Authors: Chaudhary Rahul Kumar , Khan Sajjad Ahmed
Published: August 2024

Key Clinical Message

The case underscores the necessity of adaptable airway management strategies in aortic dissection surgeries complicated by carinal shift. Successful lung isolation was achieved using a single‐lumen endotracheal tube after failed attempts with traditional methods and bronchial blockers.
CD99 contributes to the EWS::FLI1 transcriptome by specifically affecting FOXM1‐targets involved in the G2/M cell cycle phase, thus influencing the Ewing sarcoma genetic landscape
Authors: Pasello Michela , Laginestra Maria Antonella , Manara Maria Cristina , Landuzzi Lorena , Ruzzi Francesca , Maioli Margherita , Pellegrini Evelin , De Feo Alessandra , Lollini Pier‐Luigi , Scotlandi Katia
Published: August 2024

Ewing sarcoma (EwS), a highly aggressive malignancy affecting children and young adults, is primarily driven by a distinctive oncogenic fusion, the EWSR1‐ETS, whose activity is a key source of epigenetic and clinical heterogeneity. CD99 is constantly present in EwS cells, known to modulate the EwS genetic profile and tumor malignancy. However, the relevance of CD99 alone, or in association with EWSR1‐ETS chimeras, is poorly understood. We explored the dynamic relationship between CD99 and EWS::FLI1, the main fusion observed in EwS, by means of model systems with inducible expression of either molecule. The transcriptomic dynamics of cells with or without expression of EWS::FLI1 or CD99 were analyzed and correlated with tumor cell growth. The CD99‐associated EwS gene profile was found to have commonalities with the profile induced by EWS::FLI1, but also peculiar differences. Both EWS::FLI1 and CD99 are regulated targets of the DREAM complex, but the CD99 expression specifically impacted genes that are the targets of FOXM1 and are involved in the setting of the G2/M phase of the cell cycle. Most CD99‐regulated FOXM1‐targeted genes were found to correlate with bad prognosis in two public clinical datasets (R2 platform), further supporting the clinical relevance of CD99‐mediated regulation of EwS gene expression.
Accurate Determination of the Uniaxial Complex Refractive Index and the Optical Band Gap of Polymer Thin Films to Correlate Their Absorption Strength and Onset of Absorption
Authors: Kamptner Alexander , Scharber Markus C. , Schiek Manuela
Published: August 2024

The advanced development of optoelectronic devices requires a methodical knowledge of the fundamental material properties of the key active components. Systematic investigations and correlations of such basic optical properties can lead to new insights for the design of more potent materials. In this perspective, we provide a systematic overview of the uniaxial anisotropic complex refractive indices and the absorption coefficients obtained by ellipsometry as well as the optical band gap energies derived from Tauc plots of six selected solution‐processed polymer thin films. While the optical band gap energies are intentionally distributed over the visible spectral range, we found that the absorption strength of all polymer samples are grouped in a random distribution within a rather uniform range of values.
Incorporating judgment in forecasting models in times of crisis
Authors: Franses Philip Hans
Published: August 2024

This paper introduces a simple and reproducible method to modify model forecasts using expert forecasts which is useful in crisis times. The idea is to add the expert forecast as an additional observation of the dependent variable, and to extend the model with an additional explanatory variable such as the square of a deterministic trend. Next, the new model forecast is combined with the expert forecast using equal weights. We show that it works well for gross domestic product growth forecasts for 2020 for 12 countries and that it improves upon an equal‐weighted combination of the original model forecast and expert forecast.
Integrated artificial intelligence and non‐similar analysis for forced convection of radially magnetized ternary hybrid nanofluid of Carreau‐Yasuda fluid model over a curved stretching surface
Authors: Jan Ahmed , Mushtaq Muhammad , Khan Muhammad Imran , Farooq Umer
Published: August 2024

The current study investigates the boundary layer flow of Carreau‐Yasuda (C‐Y) ternary hybrid nanofluid model in a porous medium across curved surface stretching at linear rate under the influence of applied radial magnetic field. , and are nanoparticles and ethylene glycol is considered as base fluid. The effects of viscous dissipation and ohmic heating are present in the energy equation. The governing partial differential equation (PDEs) is nondimensionalized using non‐similarity transformations. They can be treated as ordinary differential equations (ODEs) using local non‐similarity method and solutions are obtained via bvp4c MATLAB tools. The results are evaluated by introducing computational intelligence approach utilizing the AI‐based Levenberg–Marquardt scheme with a backpropagation neural network (LMS‐BPNN) to investigate flow stability. The authors intend to use AI‐based LMS‐BPNN is to optimize the behavior of the hybrid nanofluid (HNF) flow of Carreau‐Yasuda fluid across a stretching curved sheet. Initial/reference solutions are obtained through bvp4c function (an embedded MATLAB function designed to solve systems of ODEs) by systematically adjusting input parameters as demonstrated in Scenarios 1–5. There are three options to divide the numerical data: 80% for training, 10% for testing, and an additional 10% for validation. The LMS‐BPNN is used for approximate solutions of Scenario 1–5. The efficiency and reliability of LMS‐BPNN are validated through fitness curves based on correlation index (R), error, and regression analysis. The velocity and temperature profiles asymptotically satisfy boundary conditions of Scenario 1–5 with LMS‐BPNN.
Sediment composition and U–Pb ages of detrital zircons in the Salina Cruz and Puerto Ángel beaches along the Gulf of Tehuantepec, Mexican Pacific
Authors: Ramos‐Vázquez Mayla A. , Armstrong‐Altrin John S. , Verma Sanjeet K. , Madhavaraju J. , James Rathinam Arthur
Published: August 2024

The Salina Cruz and Puerto Ángel beach areas in the Gulf of Tehuantepec, Mexican Pacific coast represent an important economic sector of the region. In this study, the mineralogy and geochemistry of bulk sediments, and geochronology of 400 detrital zircons recovered from the beach sediments were analysed to investigate their origin. The sediments are abundant in quartz, feldspar, ilmenite, cordierite, aragonite and anorthite. The chemical index of weathering revealed a moderate to intense weathering in the source area. The chondrite normalized REE patterns of bulk sediments are similar to the found in the Upper Continental Crust, suggesting the derivation of sediments from felsic igneous rocks. The REE patterns of zircons and the trace elemental ratios reveal a continental crust origin. Zircon U–Pb ages in the Salina Cruz beach were represented by Proterozoic (~545.1–1314.1 Ma; n = 170) and Cenozoic (~0.01–66 Ma; n = 20). The Puerto Ángel beach was abundant in Proterozoic zircon grains (~600.9–1171.4 Ma; n = 109) and followed by Mesozoic grains (~73.78–246.9 Ma; n = 40). The comparison of zircon U–Pb ages of this study with probable source rocks reveals that the Oaxaquia Terrane and Chiapas Massif Complex were the major contributors of Proterozoic zircons to the coastal areas. Similarly, the results indicate that the Cenozoic zircons were contributed by the Chiapas Massif Complex, coastal batholith and Cuicateco Terrane. The Mesozoic zircons are very few, derived from the nearby Xolapa Complex and the Chuacús Terrane.
A rare cause of hydronephrosis: Left retrocaval ureter without situs inversus or inferior vena cava duplication with CT and US imaging findings
Authors: Hasdemir Atilla , Atay Musa , Balkan Emine , İsleyen M. Edip , Unal İrem
Published: August 2024

Retrocaval ureter is a rare congenital anomaly. It usually occurs on the right side and cases on the left side without accompanying conditions such as situs inversus or double inferior vena cava (IVC) are uncommon. Instances of left retrocaval ureter without situs inversus or double IVC are rarely reported in the literature, and there are no cases presented sonographically. In this case, we present a demonstrative sonographic and tomographic images of a left‐sided Type 1 retrocaval ureter case where situs inversus and double IVC were not present. In cases where hydronephrosis is detected on ultrasound, a medially displaced ureter should raise suspicion for retrocaval ureter.
Age‐, region‐, and day/night‐related variation of the chloride reversal potential in the rat suprachiasmatic nucleus
Authors: Osuna‐Lopez Fernando , Herrera‐Zamora J. Manuel , Reyes‐Méndez Miriam E. , Aguilar‐Roblero Raúl A. , Sánchez‐Pastor Enrique A. , Navarro‐Polanco Ricardo A. , Moreno‐Galindo Eloy G. , Alamilla Javier
Published: August 2024

The master control of mammalian circadian rhythms is the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN), which is formed by the ventral and dorsal regions. In SCN neurons, GABA has an important function and even excitatory actions in adulthood. However, the physiological role of this neurotransmitter in the developing SCN is unknown. Here, we recorded GABAergic postsynaptic currents (in the perforated‐patch configuration using gramicidin) to determine the chloride reversal potential (ECl) and also assessed the immunological expression of the Na‐K‐Cl cotransporter 1 (NKCC1) at early ages of the rat (postnatal days (P) 3 to 25), during the day and night, in the two SCN regions. We detected that ECl greatly varied with age and depending on the SCN region and time of day. Broadly speaking, ECl was more hyperpolarized with age, except for the oldest age studied (P20–25) in both day and night in the ventral SCN, where it was less negative. Likewise, ECl was more hyperpolarized in the dorsal SCN both during the day and at night; while ECl was more negative at night both in the ventral and the dorsal SCN. Moreover, the total NKCC1 fluorescent expression was higher during the day than at night. These results imply that NKCC1 regulates the circadian and developmental fluctuations in the [Cl−]i to fine‐tune ECl, which is crucial for either excitatory or inhibitory GABAergic actions to occur in the SCN.
“It made me feel more alive”: A qualitative analysis of quality of life improvements following completion of trauma‐focused therapy for posttraumatic stress disorder
Authors: Kehle‐Forbes Shannon M. , Baier Allison L. , Ackland Princess E. , Spoont Michele , Polusny Melissa A. , Schnurr Paula P. , Galovski Tara , Meis Laura
Published: August 2024

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is associated with poor quality of life. Although randomized clinical trial data show improvements in quality of life following trauma‐focused therapies (TFTs), including prolonged exposure therapy (PE) and cognitive processing therapy (CPT), less is known about how these improvements are experienced from the trauma survivor's perspective. A national sample of 60 veterans who recently completed TFT as part of routine care at U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs facilities participated in semistructured qualitative interviews during which the impact of treatment on quality of life was explored. Following a mixed deductive/inductive approach, six interrelated themes describing changes in quality of life emerged: full participation in social activities, greater emotional intimacy in relationships, improvements in parenting, expanded engagement in hobbies and community, increased occupational commitment and confidence, and more joy in life. The data highlight the positive impact of treatment on quality of life and provide depth to quantitative findings demonstrating improvements in quality of life following TFT.
Contrast‐Enhanced Ultrasound: A Real‐Time, Noninvasive, Radiation‐Free Method for Intraoperative Male Urethral Fistula Assessment
Authors: Lu Qijie , Liu Wei , Chen Lei
Published: August 2024

Objectives

To evaluate the feasibility of intraoperative transurethral contrast‐enhanced ultrasound for the assessment of male urethral fistulas.

Methods

Patients in a prospective database who underwent intraoperative two‐dimensional ultrasound, transurethral saline‐enhanced ultrasound, and contrast‐enhanced ultrasound between January 2017 and July 2022 were included. All patients were clinically diagnosed with urethral fistulae (UF) in the outpatient setting based on clinical presentations, traditional two‐dimensional ultrasound, and/or other imaging modalities and confirmed during surgical repair. Dynamic videos of the scans were independently analyzed by two experienced ultrasonologists.

Results

Thirty‐nine patients with an average age of 51 years were included. The UF were located in the anterior urethra in 22 (56.4%) patients and in the bulbar urethra in 14 (63.6%) patients. UF were located in the posterior urethra in 17 (436%) patients and in the prostatic urethra in 13 (76.5%) patients. Contrast‐enhanced ultrasonography revealed UF in all patients. In patients with anterior UF, saline‐enhanced ultrasound images did not show a UF in 15 (68.2%, 15/22) patients, 13 (86.7%, 13/15) of whom had fistulae with diameters <3 mm. Saline‐enhanced ultrasound images did not reveal posterior UF in 13 (76.5%, 13/17) patients. The fistula diameters in eight (61.5%, 8/13) patients were <3 mm. The duration for contrast‐enhanced ultrasonography was approximately 3 minutes. The duration for surgical repair was approximately 2 hours.

Conclusions

Transurethral contrast‐enhanced ultrasound is a real‐time, noninvasive, and radiation‐free method that allows intraoperative imaging and accurate assessment of male UF. Its sensitivity is higher than that of both two‐dimensional ultrasound and transurethral saline‐enhanced ultrasound. The location, size, and course of the fistulae can be clearly seen due to greater contrast during contrast‐enhanced ultrasound.
Species distribution models predict potential habitat for the endangered New Mexico jumping mouse
Authors: Martínez‐Fonseca José Gabriel , Westeen Erin P. , Jenness Jeff , Zahratka Jennifer L. , Chambers Carol L.
Published: August 2024

The New Mexico jumping mouse (Zapus luteus) is a federally endangered species that relies on riparian sites of the southwestern United States. Only isolated populations occur throughout its range and detecting potential suitable environments and identifying new populations are important for long‐term conservation of genetic diversity and habitat restoration by management agencies. We used a presence‐only data approach compiled from multiple surveys since 2000 in Arizona, Colorado, and New Mexico with bioclimatic and vegetation variables to generate species distribution models for the species. Our models predicted environmentally suitable areas outside the current species management units that could be prioritized in surveys. Our models also highlighted opportunities for collaboration among federal, state, tribal, and private landowners and managers to secure habitat and connectivity for the species and its long‐term survival.
Invasive Ponto‐Caspian amphipods are less carnivorous outside their native range
Authors: Copilaș‐Ciocianu Denis , Garbaras Andrius , Šidagytė‐Copilas Eglė
Published: August 2024

A species' expansion beyond the native range is often assumed to be associated with an increased dietary niche breadth. However, empirical evidence remains limited due to a scarcity of studies comparing both the parental and invaded ranges. Here, we test the trophic niche expansion hypothesis by examining stable isotopes and functional morphology across native (NW Black Sea) and invaded (SE Baltic Sea) ranges of two amphipods, Dikerogammarus villosus and Pontogammarus robustoides, originating from the Ponto‐Caspian region—a major source of species invading Holarctic inland waters. Stable isotopes revealed that both species underwent a marked dietary niche contraction by becoming less carnivorous in the invaded range. This dietary shift was morphologically mirrored by an overall reduction of functional traits related to predation. The magnitude of dietary and morphological change was greater in D. villosus. Our findings indicate that previous experimental reports of aggressive predation in D. villosus reflect opportunistic foraging and align with local stable isotope studies which generally indicate a low trophic position. We conclude that Ponto‐Caspian species can undergo rapid dietary changes outside the native range, and that dietary niche expansion is not a prerequisite for successful non‐native establishment.
The effect of in‐situ fibrillated polytetrafluoroethylene on the rheological, mechanical, and foaming properties of polystyrene based nanocomposite foams
Authors: Zhou Minghao , Chen Shudong , Huang An
Published: August 2024

Polystyrene/polytetrafluoroethylene (PS/PTFE) in‐situ fibrillated nanocomposites were prepared by melt blending using a HAAKE torque rheometer, and the effects of different contents of in‐situ nanofibrillated PTFE on the properties of PS/PTFE nanocomposites were studied. The results showed that PTFE was in‐situ nanofibrillation in the composites, and the toughness, energy storage modulus and complex viscosity of PS/PTFE nanocomposite are all improved. When the content of PTFE was 3 wt%, the elongation at break was the highest, which was three times that of neat PS. What is more, the addition of PTFE significantly improved the cell morphology of PS/PTFE nanocomposite foams by supercritical fluid foaming. The cell structure and morphology of PS/PTFE (3 wt%) nanocomposite foam was the best under 110°C foaming temperature, and the cell diameter and cell density were 3.27 μm and 1.11 × 1010 cells/cm3, respectively. In addition, the tensile strength of PS/PTFE nanocomposite foams increased from 35.4 MPa of neat PS foam to 39.6 MPa of PS/PTFE (3 wt%) foam.
Designing of carbon nanohorn‐based heterostructure for improved mechanical properties, flame retardancy, and hydrophobicity of composite aerogels
Authors: Xu Jie , Liu Xiangrong , Wang Li , Zhu Yingkun , Ao Xiang , Guo Fanhui , Xie Zhipeng , Liang Feng , Wang De‐Yi , Wu Jianjun
Published: August 2024

Developing flame‐resistant thermal insulation aerogels with strong mechanical properties is crucial for addressing the fire hazards in high‐rise buildings. Carbon nanomaterials have garnered significant attention for enhancing the flame retardancy and mechanical properties of polymers due to their safety, nontoxicity, and low additions. In this work, the effect of single‐walled carbon nanohorns (SWCNHs) on the mechanical properties, thermal insulation properties, thermal stability, flame retardancy, and hydrophobicity of polyvinyl alcohol/KH560/phytic acid composite aerogel (PKASx) was investigated. By adjusting the concentration of SWCNHs, the mechanical properties of the aerogel were significantly improved, owing to robust interactions between SWCNHs and the matrix. However, a declining trend was observed in both the compressive modulus and specific modulus when the quantity of SWCNHs exceeded 0.3%. Simultaneously, the PKAS0.3 aerogel exhibited remarkable flame retardancy and self‐extinguishing characteristics. It possessed a high LOI value of 34.2 ± 0.2%, with a 25.2% reduction in pHRR and an 18.6% reduction in THR. Moreover, the analysis of TSP and SPR curves affirmed that the inclusion of SWCNHs effectively minimized the production of gaseous by‐products during combustion. In addition, the introduction of SWCNHs introduced a trade‐off in the roughness of the aerogel. The maximum contact angle occurred at the optimal concentration of SWCNHs.
Visual detection of fungicide resistance by combining RPA and CRISPR/Cas12a in peach Brown rot fungus Monilinia fructicola
Authors: Liu Duo , Luo Mei , Zhu Yong‐Xu , Zeng Zhe‐Zheng , Hu Jia‐Jie , Cai Min‐Zheng , Wang Jing , Yin Wei‐Xiao , Schnabel Guido , Luo Chao‐Xi
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND

Peach brown rot caused by Monilinia fructicola severely affects the quality and yield of peach, resulting in large economic losses worldwide. Methyl benzimidazole carbamate (MBC) fungicides and sterol demethylation inhibitor (DMI) fungicides are among the most applied chemical classes used to control the disease but resistance in the target pathogen has made them risky choices. Timely monitoring of resistance to these fungicides in orchards could prevent control failure in practice.

RESULTS

In the current study, we developed methods based on recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA) and CRISPR/Cas12a systems to detect MBC and DMI resistance based on the E198A mutation in the β‐tubulin (MfTub2) gene and the presence of the Mona element in the upstream region of the MfCYP51, respectively. For MBC resistance, RPA primers were designed that artificially incorporated PAM sites to facilitate the CRISPR/Cas12a reaction. Subsequently, specific tcrRNAs were designed based on the E198A mutation site. For the detection of the Mona element, we designed RPA primers M‐DMI‐F2/M‐DMI‐R1 that in combination with crRNA1 detected ‘Mona’ and distinguished resistant from sensitive strains.

CONCLUSION

Both methods exhibited high sensitivity and specificity, requiring only a simple isothermal device to obtain results within 1 h at 37 °C. The FQ‐reporter enabled visualization with a handheld UV or white light flashlight. This method was successfully used with purified DNA from lab cultures and crude DNA from symptomatic fruit tissue, highlighting its potential for on‐site detection of resistant strains in orchards. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Resource reallocation across successive systemic innovations: How Rolls‐Royce shaped the evolution of the turbojet, turboprop, and turbofan
Authors: Cattani Gino , Mastrogiorgio Mariano , Carignani Giuseppe
Published: August 2024

Research Summary

Despite the importance of resource reallocation in shaping a variety of strategic outcomes, strategy scholars have paid only limited attention to the processes by which firms reallocate their resources across successive systemic innovations. To explore these processes, we conducted an in‐depth historical case study on Rolls‐Royce's role in three distinct systemic innovations that marked the transition from piston engines to jet engines in the civil aviation industry: the turbojet, the turboprop, and the turbofan. The analysis helps explain how and why Rolls‐Royce's central role stemmed from its ability to reallocate existing non‐scale free organizational and technical resources. A key finding of this study is the identification of the horizontal transfer of functional modules as a critical process, especially during the incipient phase of a systemic innovation. The analysis also highlights the role that specific organizational arrangements, particularly a firm's integrative capabilities, have in shaping the effectiveness with which resources are reallocated.

Managerial Summary

Focusing on resource reallocation is important to understand why some firms effectively reallocate their resources through successive systemic innovations while others cannot, even if they have similar resources and face the same environmental conditions. By delving into the technological aspects of aeroengine development and exploring why Rolls‐Royce had the capabilities to successfully integrate key functional modules across various modular levels, we clarify the relationship between technology and organization that underlies resource reallocation—a topic that has received only scant attention in the strategy literature.
Development of Self‐Doped Monolayered 2D MoS2 for Enhanced Photoresponsivity
Authors: Mallick Sagar , Majumder Sudipta , Maiti Paramita , Kesavan Kamali , Rahman Atikur , Rath Ashutosh
Published: August 2024

Transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) exist in two distinct phases: the thermodynamically stable trigonal prismatic (2H) and the metastable octahedral (1T) phase. Phase engineering has emerged as a potent technique for enhancing the performance of TMDs in optoelectronics applications. Nevertheless, understanding the mechanism of phase transition in TMDs and achieving large‐area synthesis of phase‐controlled TMDs continue to pose significant challenges. This study presents the synthesis of large‐area monolayered 2H‐MoS2 and mixed‐phase 1T/2H‐MoS2 by controlling the growth temperature in the chemical vapor deposition (CVD) method without use of a catalyst. The field‐effect transistors (FETs) devices fabricated with 1T/2H‐MoS2 mixed‐phase show an on/off ratio of 107. Photo response devices fabricated with 1T/2H‐MoS2 mixed‐phase show ≈55 times enhancement in responsivity (from 0.32 to 17.4 A W−1) and 102 times increase in the detectivity (from 4.1 × 1010 to 2.48 × 1012 cm Hz W−1) compare to 2H‐MoS2. Introducing the metallic 1T phase within the 2H phase contributes additional carriers to the material, which prevents the electron‐hole recombination and thereby increases the carrier density in the 1T/2H‐MoS2 mixed‐phase in comparison to 2H‐MoS2. This work provides insights into the self‐doping effects of 1T phase in 2H MoS2, enabling the tuning of 2D TMDs properties for optoelectronic applications.
Experimental Study on the Characteristics and High‐Temperature Heat Transfer of Secondary Cooling Nozzle for High‐Efficiency Slab Continuous Casting Process
Authors: Li Jia‐kun , Xu Rong‐jun , Lv Ming , Sun Xiong‐bo , Gao Qi , Du Zhong‐ze , Zhang Zhao‐hui
Published: August 2024

In the continuous casting process, the heat transfer effect of secondary cooling plays an important role in the quality of the slab. The cooling intensity and cooling uniformity of the secondary cooling nozzle need more efficient spray cooling to achieve. Herein, the cold characteristics of different types of nozzles were compared. It is found that the second type of air mist nozzles have more uniform water density and striking force. On this basis, high‐temperature heat transfer experiments for casting billets were carried out to study the heat transfer coefficients of different air mist nozzles in the secondary cooling zone of continuous casting. It is found that the heat transfer coefficient increases as the distance of the temperature measurement point from the nozzle directly below increases. The heat transfer coefficients of the casting billet in both the jet and non‐jet zones are decreasing to varying degrees. When the temperature drops to 600 °C, the second type of air mist nozzle shows a faster temperature drop at the point of measurement, a smaller difference in time taken for temperature drop between jet and non‐jet zones, and faster and more uniform spraying, leading to a more significant trend of increasing heat transfer coefficient.
Empowering collaborative statisticians: The impact of the American Statistical Association's Pathways to Promotion Committee
Authors: Stedman Margaret R. , Dehom Salem , Davidson Mario A. , Zhang Li , Podolsky Robert H. , Pohlig Ryan T. , Coffey Todd
Published: August 2024

Members of the ASA's Section on Statistical Consulting established the Pathways to Promotion Committee in 2021 to provide guidance and support for navigating a career as a collaborative statistician. In three years of existence, the Committee has produced seven webinars on relevant topics, each attended by more than one hundred participants. Committee members have given four oral presentations, organized three roundtables, led multiple discussions at ASA meetings and published four articles. These efforts have inspired, created and facilitated new connections for collaborative statisticians who feel isolated in their career path. This paper describes the formation and development of the Committee, reports its impact on the community of collaborative statisticians and discusses potential future directions.
Development of a State‐of‐Art Custard Formulation: Investigating the Rheological, Physicochemical, Sensory, and In‐Vitro Digestibility Properties
Authors: Kashi Razieh , Razavi Seyed Mohammad Ali
Published: August 2024

Stabilizing starch‐based dairy desserts is a challenge, attracting researchers’ attention to finding a phase separation‐free formulation with protected textural and sensory properties. The present study aims to investigate the effect of using high hydrostatic pressure (HHP) treated waxy corn starch (HWCS) instead of native corn starch, substituting sucrose with xylitol (1:0, 1:1, 0:1) and fat reduction level (2.67% and 0.1%) on the rheological, textural, sensory properties, α‐amylase sensitivity, and instrumental and sensory parameters of custard desserts’ correlation. The results of the back extrusion test demonstrate an increase in consistency (27.20 mJ) and adhesiveness (6.20 mJ) and a decrease in hardness (5.13 N) and adhesive force (2.57 N) by applying HWCS, diminishing fat content and substituting xylitol (HXL) compared to control (2.16 mJ, 0.79 mJ, 13.55 N and 3.45 N, respectively) that is in line with preventing syneresis, maximizing creamy stability index, and water holding capacity after 5 days of storage at 4 °C. Also, the presence of xylitol and HWCS decreases custards’ enzyme sensitivity and glucose release, amplifying its creaminess and smoothness perception. It is worth noting that although HWCS reduces viscosity and time dependency at the constant shear rate of 50 s−1 (6 °C), low‐fat samples have a higher viscosity than control.
MHD free convective heat and mass transfer flow passing through semi‐infinite plate for Cu‐water and TiO2‐water nanofluids in presence of radiation embedded in porous medium
Authors: Choudhury Kangkan , Sharma Sweety
Published: August 2024

This research presents an analytical study of magnetohydrodynamics (MHD)‐free convective heat and mass transfer flow of a nanofluid bounded by a semi‐infinite flat plate. A magnetic field of strength is applied throughout the fluid region. The plate is moving with a constant velocity , temperature, and the concentration are assumed to be fluctuating with time harmonically from a constant mean at the plate. The frontier equations are assumed to be of an oscillatory nature and cracked analytically using the perturbation technique. The novelty of the present work is to examine the heat and mass transfer MHD flow for Cu‐water and TiO2‐water nanofluids in the presence of thermal radiation. The influence of physical parameters on the flow domain is described in the discussions by graphically and in tabular form. It was found that the fluid temperature and skin friction were reduced with the increased values of the radiation parameters for Cu‐water and TiO2‐water nanofluids. Also, it is noticed that the concentration boundary layer thickness decreases with an increase in chemical reaction parameters.