bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High‐fidelity finite element modeling of the seismic response of prefabricated steel stairs
Authors: Sorosh Shokrullah , Hutchinson Tara C. , Ryan Keri L. , Smith Kevin , Belvin Robert , Black Cameron
Published: April 2024

Advancing the seismic resilience of building systems is an active area of research in earthquake engineering. Ensuring safe egress in and out of buildings during extreme events, such as an earthquake, is essential to supporting this effort. To this end, understanding the seismic response of stairs facilitates the robust design of egress systems to ensure they can remain operable after an earthquake. From prior earthquake events and physical experiments, it is understood that stairs with a flight to landing fixed connection at multiple levels within a building are prone to damage. In addition, the stair system with flight to landing fixed attachments may affect the dynamic behavior of the building. To accommodate seismic inter‐story drifts, a kinematically free connection between the stairs and landing has been proposed. Herein this connection is referred to as a drift‐compatible stair connection. To investigate and aid in the design of such a connection, a unique set of shake table experiments were conducted at the University of Nevada, Reno. In this paper, an overview of these tests is presented, and a high‐fidelity finite element model of the tested stair system is used to predict the responses measured during these experiments. Developed in Abaqus, the robustness of the modeled stair unit is investigated considering a variety of contrasting connections, namely, drift‐compatible connections, fixed ends and one end fixed and the other free. Results from these numerical simulations offer guidance towards development of simplified models of multi‐level stair subsystems. Such models are needed when investigating seismic resilience of building systems across a wider range of hazard levels. Furthermore, best practices observed utilizing the models developed and evaluated herein against experimental data will be useful for subsequent analysis of larger stair tower models, such as the 10‐story stair system implemented in the NHERI Tall Wood mass timber building with post‐tensioned rocking walls, conducted in 2023 at the UC San Diego Large High‐Performance Outdoor Shake Table.
System effects in T‐shaped timber shear walls: Effects of transverse walls, diaphragms, and axial loading
Authors: Valdivieso Diego , Almazán Jose L. , Lopez‐Garcia Diego , Montaño Jairo , Liel Abbie B. , Guindos Pablo
Published: April 2024

This paper investigates the effects of transverse shear walls (TSWs), out‐of‐plane bending stiffness of diaphragms (FDIA), and axial loading (AXL) on the lateral response of strong wood‐frame shear walls (SWs) used for multistory light frame timber buildings (LFTBs) located in highly active seismic zones. Experimental tests were conducted to understand the requirements for SW‐to‐TSW connections to achieve desirable TSW effects in non‐planar SWs and to characterize the lateral cyclic response of T‐shaped SW assemblies with and without diaphragms and axial load. Both slotted and screwed connections were evaluated as SW‐to‐TSW connections, and both showed sufficient stiffness and strength to achieve TSW effects. However, the slotted connection is preferred because it has a more ductile failure mode. Tests on T‐shaped SW assemblies with and without diaphragms and axial load revealed that TSWs significantly enhance the lateral stiffness and strength but reduce the deformation capacity with respect to that of planar SWs. FDIA and AXL effects further influence the stiffness and strength, overcoming the limitation of smaller deformation capacity in T‐shaped SWs without diaphragms. Diaphragms also make the T‐shaped SW response more symmetrical and improve the evolution of the secant stiffness, the cumulative dissipated energy, and the equivalent viscous damping over increasing levels of lateral drift. Numerical analyses of a theoretical building model with T‐shaped SWs show significant reductions in lateral drift (up to 46%) and uplift (up to 100%) compared to the case with planar SWs only, emphasizing the importance of considering system effects in the seismic design of LFTBs.
Validity, Reliability, and Fairness Evidence for the JD‐Next Exam
Authors: Holtzman Steven , Steinberg Jonathan , Weeks Jonathan , Robertson Christopher , Findley Jessica , Klieger David
Published: April 2024

At a time when institutions of higher education are exploring alternatives to traditional admissions testing, institutions are also seeking to better support students and prepare them for academic success. Under such an engaged model, one may seek to measure not just the accumulated knowledge and skills that students would bring to a new academic program but also their ability to grow and learn through the academic program. To help prepare students for law school before they matriculate, the JD‐Next is a fully online, noncredit, 7‐ to 10‐week course to train potential juris doctor students in case reading and analysis skills. This study builds on the work presented for previous JD‐Next cohorts by introducing new scoring and reliability estimation methodologies based on a recent redesign of the assessment for the 2021 cohort, and it presents updated validity and fairness findings using first‐year grades, rather than merely first‐semester grades as in prior cohorts. Results support the claim that the JD‐Next exam is reliable and valid for predicting law school success, providing a statistically significant increase in predictive power over baseline models, including entrance exam scores and grade point averages. In terms of fairness across racial and ethnic groups, smaller score disparities are found with JD‐Next than with traditional admissions assessments, and the assessment is shown to be equally predictive for students from underrepresented minority groups and for first‐generation students. These findings, in conjunction with those from previous research, support the use of the JD‐Next exam for both preparing and admitting future law school students.
Investigation of pinhole defects in gas diffusion layers for the quality control of proton exchange membrane fuel cells
Authors: Yuan Xiao‐Zi , Gu Elton , Zhao Nana , Stoll Jonas , Shi Zhiqing , Girard Francois
Published: April 2024

The gas diffusion layer (GDL), one of the essential components of the membrane electrode assembly (MEA), plays an important role in the performance of proton exchange membrane fuel cells. With respect to this essential component and its specifications, this work intends to examine the impact of GDL defects and their effects on cell performance for component quality control. To understand how GDL defect affects its performance and to what level the defect takes effect, ex situ characterization and in situ fuel cell testing are conducted by comparing pristine and defective GDLs. While ex situ GDL properties incorporate measurements of thickness, conductivity, and permeability under compression, in situ investigation mainly involves polarization curve and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. Among different types of GDL defects, pinholes are targeted in this work. As such, the evaluation focuses on assessing the effects of varying numbers and sizes of pinhole defects under different relative humidities (RHs). Using the state‐of‐the‐art GDLs, an improved cell performance is observed with defective GDLs (evenly distributed 40 pinholes with a diameter of 0.58 mm) under 100% RH. Results also show that the effect of pinhole defects is sensitive to RH, as well as operating current densities.
EENet: Application of convolutional neural network‐based deep learning methods in bone tumor pathological diagnosis
Authors: Li Xiuyan , Ding Ruotong , Wang Qi , Yang Zhenyu , Duan Xiaojie , Sun Yukuan , Liu Aidong
Published: April 2024

Bone tumors are one of the most common diseases in bone and soft tissue tumors, and accurate classification is crucial for developing effective treatment strategies. However, traditional pathological morphology diagnosis is subjective and uncertain, requiring highly specialized knowledge and experience. Therefore, how to efficiently and accurately classify bone tumor types based on pathological images is an urgent problem to be solved. In this study, a lightweight convolutional neural network (CNN) model called Efficient and Enhance Network (EENet) was proposed for the automatic recognition of bone tumor pathological images. The model introduced efficient channel attention (ECA) blocks to improve the efficiency of feature extraction and reduce computational complexity. A comprehensive dataset of bone pathological images, including five types of bone lesion tissues and normal bone tissue, was compiled for the research. Due to the low incidence of bone tumors and the difficulty in obtaining a large amount of data, the transfer learning method was chosen to overcome the problem of limited data volume. The experimental results from the fivefold cross‐validation demonstrate that the proposed model achieves 99.06% accuracy, 99.08% precision, 99.19% recall, 99.81% specificity, and 99.03% F1‐score in the bone tumor classification task, highlighting its potential as a clinical diagnostic tool.
Turtles and tortoises losing the race: Ecology and conservation of Testudines in Indawgyi Lake, Myanmar
Authors: Kyaw Ei Mon , Ong Lisa , Naing Nay Htet , Oo Thet Myat , Naing Kyaw Htet , Ko La Minn Ko , Tin Thinn Su , Htun Ye Yint , Chen Xiao‐Yong
Published: April 2024

Testudines (turtles and tortoises) rank among the most threatened vertebrates globally, with species in Asia particularly vulnerable due to exploitation, unregulated trade, habitat loss, and degradation. This study aimed to understand the ecology and conservation status of turtles and tortoises in the Indawgyi Lake basin. We conducted surveys along 47 transects, each 1–2 km in length, across four sampling periods (total distance covered = 74.9 km). Additionally, we also deployed four traps at three different locations to capture turtles during two of these sampling periods. In addition, we analyzed 14 soil samples collected from five locations to determine the nesting conditions of soft‐shell turtles. Finally, we identified conservation concerns through semi‐structured interviews with 146 local households, including fishermen and hunters, to gather local ecological knowledge (LEK) on the abundance, habitats, and breeding ecology of turtles and tortoises, as well as local conservation perspectives. Seven turtle and tortoise species were identified within the Indawgyi Lake basin. To our knowledge, two of these species, the Myanmar brown leaf turtle (Cyclemys fusca) and Oldham's leaf turtle (Cyclemys oldhamii), have yet to be officially documented in this area. Furthermore, an Amyda sp. (collected on 10 March 2019), known by the vernacular name “Late Par Tate,” is hitherto undescribed and is likely a newly discovered species. Our results showed disturbance (SW = 1.0) and higher organic matter (SW = 0.52) as the main estimators explaining the difference in nest observation frequency. Animal grazing areas had more nests than other sites affected by greater human disturbances. The local community identified hunting (44%), fishing (28%), and deforestation (13%) as the main activities threatening turtle and tortoise populations. The majority of turtles hunted were either consumed (over 43%) or sold to middlemen, who at times sold them on to foreign traders (less than 51%). Alarmingly, 99% of those interviewed expressed a notable deficiency in protection and conservation efforts by the Nature and Wildlife Conservation Division and NGOs. We advocate for enhanced conservation efforts, mainly through stronger enforcement, increased awareness, and the establishment of protection zones with restricted human access to facilitate the recovery of these populations, especially at nesting sites.
Purification, structural characterization, and neuroprotective effect of 3,6‐diisobutyl‐2,5‐piperazinedione from Halomonas pacifica CARE‐V15 against okadaic acid‐induced neurotoxicity in zebrafish model
Authors: Narasimman Vignesh , Ramachandran Saravanan
Published: April 2024

Halomonas pacifica CARE‐V15 was isolated from the southeastern coast of India to determine its genome sequence. Secondary metabolite gene clusters were identified using an anti‐SMASH server. The concentrated crude ethyl acetate extract was evaluated by GC–MS. The bioactive compound from the crude ethyl acetate extract was fractionated by gel column chromatography. HPLC was used to purify the 3,6‐diisobutyl‐2,5‐piperazinedione (DIP), and the structure was determined using FTIR and NMR spectroscopy. Purified DIP was used in an in silico molecular docking analysis. Purified DIP exhibits a stronger affinity for antioxidant genes like glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione‐S‐transferase (GST), and glutathione reductase (GSR). Using in silco molecular docking analysis, the protein−ligand binding affinities of GSR (−4.70 kcal/mol), GST (−5.27 kcal/mol), and GPx (−5.37 kcal/mol) were measured. The expression of antioxidant genes were investigated by qRT‐PCR. The in vivo reactive oxygen species production, lipid peroxidation, and cell death levels were significantly (p ≤ 0.05) increased in OA‐induced group, but all these levels were significantly (p ≤ 0.05) decreased in the purified DIP pretreated group. Purified DIP from halophilic bacteria could thus be a useful treatment for neurological disorders associated with oxidative stress.
Levulinic acid as a strategy for control of postharvest citrus blue mold by a newly isolated Penicillium italicum
Authors: Bazoti Suzana F , Camargo Aline Frumi , Bonatto Charline , Kubeneck Simone , Longo Vitória Dassoler , Romani Larissa Capeletti , Fongaro Gislaine , de Oliveira Débora , Treichel Helen
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND

Levulinic acid (LA) is a multifunctional compound that is relevant to the economy of bio‐based chemical products. Citrus sinensis, the Valencia variety, is one of the world's most consumed citrus fruit varieties but suffers significant losses as a result of blue mold infestation. This research evaluated the inhibitory action of unpurified levulinic acid obtained from watermelon residues against the fungus Penicillium italicum, proposing a new use as a fungal inhibitor.

RESULTS

LA was evaluated in in vitro tests and inhibited the mycelial growth of the fungus. In in vivo experiments with oranges, fungal proliferation in fruits was investigated by applying a crude mixture containing LA (43 mmol L−1) and formic acid (FA, 28 mmol L−1), and comparing the effects with FA alone and negative control (without inhibitory agent). The weight loss and disease incidence results decreased when LA was used as an inhibitory agent, with no negative impacts on fruit quality being observed. Its inhibitory effect was confirmed by determining the activities of the antioxidant enzymes catalase (CAT), ascorbate peroxidase (APX), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and peroxidase (POD), where there was no increase in activities owing to inhibition of the fungus before its proliferation in the fruits.

CONCLUSION

This study provides relevant data on the new use of raw LA as an antifungal agent, an effect still unexplored for this compound in recent literature, offering a practical and innovative solution to combat blue mold. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Advancing dental care access for patients with disabilities: A global scoping review of predoctoral training
Authors: Nanji Natasha , Nanji Alisha , Chamut Steffany , Chandel Tejasvita
Published: April 2024

Objective

To examine predoctoral training programs that address the unique needs of patients with special healthcare needs (SHCN) and provide an overview of current global training initiatives, while exploring innovative approaches to enhance dental students' preparation in managing SHCN patients.

Methods

A scoping review (SR) was conducted focusing on three key concepts: dental education, pre‐doctoral training, and intellectual disability/developmental disability. The search encompassed five databases including Medline, Embase, Dentistry and Oral Sciences Source (EBSCO), Global Health (EBSCO), and WHO Global Index Medicus, following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. EndNote and Covidence were utilized to prevent duplication and facilitate title/abstract screening.

Results

After screening abstracts, a total of 2309 articles were initially identified with 28 articles meeting eligibility criteria for data extraction relevant to the research question. Two major categories characterized the key findings included in the review: 12 interventional studies and 16 perception‐based studies.

Conclusion

This SR revealed that dental students are not adequately trained to treat special needs populations; consequentially, dental students lack confidence in providing high‐quality care to this demographic. The absence of standardized training poses a global challenge, exacerbating care disparities. Addressing this issue is crucial to better prepare dental students and advance equitable access and quality care for underserved populations.
Seasonal impact of constructed wetlands on nitrogen and phosphorus in sediments of flood control lakes with pollution assessment
Authors: Li Xiao , Liu Xinlin , Huang Yang , Zhang Yulong , Li Jian
Published: April 2024

The primary drivers of eutrophication in lakes following the reduction of external nutrient inputs are the release of N and P from sediments. Constructed wetlands play a pivotal role in ameliorating N, P, and other biogenic element levels. However, the presence of large vegetation in these wetlands also substantially contributes to nutrient accumulation in sediments, a phenomenon influenced by seasonal variations. In this study, a typical constructed wetland was selected as the research site. The research aimed to analyze the forms of N and P in sediments during both summer and winter. Simultaneously, a comprehensive pollution assessment and analysis were conducted within the study area. The findings indicate that elevated summer temperatures, together with the presence of wetland vegetation, promote the release of N through the nitrification process. Additionally, seasonal variations exert a significant impact on the distribution of P storage. Furthermore, the role of constructed wetlands in the absorption and release of N and P is primarily controlled by the influence of organic matter on nitrate‐nitrogen, nitrite‐nitrogen, and available phosphorus, and is also subject to seasonal fluctuations. In summary, under the comprehensive influence of constructed wetlands, vegetation types, and seasons, sediments within the lake generally exhibit a state of mild or moderate pollution. Therefore, targeted measures should be adopted to optimally adjust vegetation types, and human intervention is necessary, involving timely sediment harvesting during the summer to reduce N and P loads, and enhancing sediment adsorption and retention capacity for N and P during the winter.
Reproductive performance of freshwater snail, Helisoma duryi under the effect of bulk and nano zinc oxide
Authors: Kandeil Manar A. , Salem Hoda K. , Eissa Samia H. , Hassan Sama S. , El‐Sawy Abdelhamid M.
Published: April 2024

Nanotechnology has been used to apply nanoparticle essential elements to enhance the ability of animals to absorb these elements and consequently improve their reproductive performance. High concentrations of nanoparticles (NPs) can directly harm a range of aquatic life forms, ultimately contributing to a decline in biodiversity. Helisoma duryi snails are a good model for studying the toxicological effects of bulk zinc oxide (ZnO‐BPs) and nano zinc oxide (ZnO‐NPs) on freshwater gastropods. This study aimed to compare the toxic effects of ZnO‐BPs and ZnO‐NPs on H. duryi snails and explore how waterborne and dietary exposure influenced the reproductive performance of this snail. ZnO‐BPs and ZnO‐NPs were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and X‐ray powder (XRD). This study revealed that the size of ZnO‐BPs and ZnO‐NPs were 154 nm and 11–31 nm, respectively. The results showed that exposure of adult snails to sub‐lethal concentrations of both ZnO forms (bulk and nano) for 24 h/week for 4 weeks markedly changed their reproductive performance in a concentration‐dependent manner, where fecundity was negatively affected by high concentrations. It was concluded that dietary exposure to the lowest tested concentration of ZnO‐NPs (1 ppm) has a positive effect as the number of eggs and egg masses/snails increased and the incubation period decreased. Also, poly‐vitelline eggs (The formation of twins) were observed. ZnO‐NPs at low concentrations positively affect the reproductive performance of snails, especially after dietary exposure. The results revealed that 1 ppm ZnO‐NPs could be supplementary provided to snails to improve their fertility, reduce the developmental time course, increase hatchability percentage, and produce poly‐vitelline eggs.
L‐proline‐based DES in Knoevenagel synthesis of arylidene rhodanines, thiazolidine‐2,4‐diones, and barbituric derivatives
Authors: Hesse Stéphanie , Hertzog Jasmine , Rup‐Jacques Sandrine
Published: April 2024

Deep eutectic solvents (DES) are environmentally friendly solvents that prevent the use of toxic organic solvents and have been extensively studied in recent years. However, volatile organic compounds (VOC) are often still used during workup and isolation of products. Here, a zero‐VOC strategy for Knoevenagel reaction is reported. (Hetero)aromatic aldehydes are successfully condensed with rhodanine, thiazolidine‐2,4‐dione TZD, or barbituric acid under mild conditions in an L‐proline‐based DES and pure compounds are obtained after hydrolysis without any purification. For the less reactive TZD, activation by microwave allows diminution of reaction time from 24 h to just 1 h.
Dissimilar effects of the hydrophilic carbon dots on the amyloid aggregation of two model proteins and the mechanism discussion
Authors: Li Jie , Zhang Yuangong , Dong Jiawei , Li Dexin , Ba Xinwu , Wang Sujuan
Published: April 2024

Many proteins could aggregate into amyloid fibrils under certain conditions. However, the aggregation process and morphology of the fibrils may be significantly different because of the distinct protein structure. In this article, the hydrophilic carbon dots (Lys‐CA‐CDs) were prepared using lysine (Lys) and citric acid (CA) as reactant under the assistance of a microwave. The dissimilar modulation effect of Lys‐CA‐CDs on the aggregation process of distinct structure protein was further investigated, where bovine serum albumin (BSA) and hen egg white lysozyme (HEWL) were chosen as model proteins. All results showed that Lys‐CA‐CDs displayed the contrary influence on the aggregation process of BSA and HEWL. Lys‐CA‐CDs could induce BSA to aggregate into more wormlike fibrils and inhibit the aggregation of HEWL into hair‐like fibrils. The influence on the aggregation process of BSA may be assigned to the increased concentration of BSA around the Lys‐CA‐CDs caused by their interaction. However, inserting of Lys‐CA‐CDs into the inner structure of HEWL led to the change of protein secondary structure. The change of secondary structure further made it difficult for HEWL to aggregate into fibrils and Lys‐CA‐CDs showed the inhibition effect on HEWL aggregation.
Treatment with RNase alleviates brain injury but not neuroinflammation in neonatal hypoxia/ischemia
Authors: Anderberg Rozita H , Andersson E. Axel , Bucher Valentina , Preissner Klaus T. , Mallard Carina , Ek C. Joakim
Published: April 2024

There is a need for new treatments to reduce brain injuries derived from neonatal hypoxia/ischemia. The only viable option used in the clinic today in infants born at term is therapeutic hypothermia, which has a limited efficacy. Treatments with exogenous RNase have shown great promise in a range of different adult animal models including stroke, ischemia/reperfusion injury, or experimental heart transplantation, often by conferring vascular protective and anti‐inflammatory effects. However, any neuroprotective function of RNase treatment in the neonate remains unknown. Using a well‐established model of neonatal hypoxic/ischemic brain injury, we evaluated the influence of RNase treatment on RNase activity, gray and white matter tissue loss, blood–brain barrier function, as well as levels and expression of inflammatory cytokines in the brain up to 6 h after the injury using multiplex immunoassay and RT‐PCR. Intraperitoneal treatment with RNase increased RNase activity in both plasma and cerebropinal fluids. The RNase treatment resulted in a reduction of brain tissue loss but did not affect the blood–brain barrier function and had only a minor modulatory effect on the inflammatory response. It is concluded that RNase treatment may be promising as a neuroprotective regimen, whereas the mechanistic effects of this treatment appear to be different in the neonate compared to the adult and need further investigation.
Impact of frailty in patients with non‐valvular atrial fibrillation undergoing catheter ablation
Authors: Soejima Kyoko , Nogami Akihiko , Kumagai Koichiro , Uno Kikuya , Kurita Takashi , Morishima Itsuro , Miura Fumiharu , Kato Ritsushi , Kimura Tetsuya , Takita Atsushi , Gosho Masahiko , Aonuma Kazutaka ,   RYOUMA Investigators
Published: April 2024

Background

The relationships between frailty and clinical outcomes in elderly Japanese patients with non‐valvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF) after catheter ablation (CA) have not been established. We evaluated the frailty rate of patients undergoing CA for NVAF, examined whether CA for NVAF improves frailty, and analyzed the CA outcomes of patients with and without frailty.

Methods

Elderly Japanese patients (≥65 years; mean age: 72.8 years) who participated in the real‐world ablation therapy with anti‐coagulants in management of atrial fibrillation registry and who responded to the frailty screening index survey were included (n = 213). Frailty and AF recurrence were assessed preoperatively and at 3 and 6 months after CA.

Results

Twenty‐six patients (12.8%) were frail, 109 (53.7%) were pre‐frail, and 68 (33.5%) were robust. Cardiovascular (frailty: 0.5%/person‐year; pre‐frailty: 0.1%/person‐year; robust: 0.1%/person‐year) and cardiac (frailty: 0.5%/person‐year; pre‐frailty: 0.1%/person‐year; robust: 0.1%/person‐year) events, as well as major bleeding (frailty: 0.3%/person‐year; pre‐frailty: 0.1%/person‐year; robust: 0.1%/person‐year), were numerically more frequent in the frailty group. No deaths from cardiovascular or stroke/systemic thromboembolic events occurred. A large proportion of patients did not experience 3‐month (frailty: 96.2%; pre‐frailty: 96.3%; robust: 88.2%) or 6‐month (frailty: 88.5%; pre‐frailty: 91.7%; robust: 86.8%) AF recurrence after CA. Weight loss, walking speed, and fatigue improved in the frailty and pre‐frailty groups after CA.

Conclusion

Japanese patients aged ≥65 years with frailty or pre‐frailty had improved frailty screening index components, such as weight loss, walking speed and fatigue, after CA. Therefore, elderly patients with frailty or pre‐frailty may benefit from CA for NVAF.
Assessing paraspinal muscle atrophy with electrical impedance myography: Limitations and insights
Authors: Guven Ali E. , Chiapparelli Erika , Camino‐Willhuber Gaston , Zhu Jiaqi , Schönnagel Lukas , Amoroso Krizia , Caffard Thomas , Erduran Ada , Shue Jennifer , Sama Andrew A. , Girardi Federico P. , Cammisa Frank P. , Hughes Alexander P.
Published: April 2024

Paraspinal muscle atrophy is gaining attention in spine surgery due to its link to back pain, spinal degeneration and worse postoperative outcomes. Electrical impedance myography (EIM) is a noninvasive diagnostic tool for muscle quality assessment, primarily utilized for patients with neuromuscular diseases. However, EIM's accuracy for paraspinal muscle assessment remains understudied. In this study, we investigated the correlation between EIM readings and MRI‐derived muscle parameters, as well as the influence of dermal and subcutaneous parameters on these readings. We retrospectively analyzed patients with lumbar spinal degeneration who underwent paraspinal EIM assessment between May 2023 to July 2023. Paraspinal muscle fatty infiltration (FI) and functional cross‐sectional area (fCSA), as well as the subcutaneous thickness were assessed on MRI scans. Skin ultrasound imaging was assessed for dermal thickness and the echogenicities of the dermal and subcutaneous layers. All measurements were performed on the bilaterally. The correlation between EIM readings were compared with ultrasound and MRI parameters using Spearman's correlation analyses. A total of 20 patients (65.0% female) with a median age of 69.5 years (IQR, 61.3–73.8) were analyzed. The fCSA and FI did not significantly correlate with the EIM readings, regardless of frequency. All EIM readings across frequencies correlated with subcutaneous thickness, echogenicity, or dermal thickness. With the current methodology, paraspinal EIM is not a valid alternative to MRI assessment of muscle quality, as it is strongly influenced by the dermal and subcutaneous layers. Further studies are required for refining the methodology and confirming our results.
Effects of focal vibration on changes in sports performance in amateur athletes: A randomized clinical trial
Authors: Canet‐Vintró Max , Rodríguez‐Sanz Jacobo , López‐de‐Celis Carlos , Campañá‐Arnal Enric , Hidalgo‐Garcia César , Pérez‐Bellmunt Albert
Published: April 2024

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a focal vibration protocol added to an activation protocol with active muscle contractions and to see what repercussions it has on sprint, countermovement jump (CMJ), and lower limb isometric strength. A double‐blind randomized clinical trial was conducted in the Functional Anatomy Laboratory and the sample consisted of 70 athletes. The main outcome measures were knee extension force, CMJ, sprint, and surface electromyography. Repeated‐measures analysis of variance revealed significant improvements. They were found in the within‐group analysis for the Experimental Group in the isometric extension force (p < 0.001; η2 = 0.368), CMJ (p < 0.001; η2 = 0.301) and 30 m sprint (p < 0.001; η2 = 0.376). In the electromyography, there are changes in the Sham Group in all muscles, in CMJ and Sprint tests, and no differences in the Experimental Group, except for the RF muscle. In the between‐group analysis, statistically significant differences were found only in favor of the Experimental Group in CMJ (p = 0.017; η2 = 0.81) and 30 m sprint (p < 0.001; η2 = 0.152). These results confirm a significant improvement in the sprint, CMJ performance, and quadriceps strength, after a focal vibration protocol, added to a muscle active contraction, compared to a focal vibration sham protocol. Therefore, our results suggest that the focal vibration can be a very useful tool in sports involving high‐powered actions.
Parent‐child interaction is related to emotional and behavioral problems in pediatric intestinal failure
Authors: Duister Rozemarijn A. L. , Vlug Lotte E. , Tabbers Merit M. , Rings Edmond H. H. M. , Wijnen René M.H. , Spoel Marjolein , de Koning Barbara A. E. , Legerstee Jeroen S. , Lambregtse‐van den Berg Mijke P. ,   the PICASsO Group
Published: April 2024

Objectives

Parent‐child interaction in pediatric intestinal failure (IF) and in parenteral nutrition (PN) graduates can be disturbed due to parental responsibilities related to the condition, and could affect the child's emotional and behavioral functioning (EBF). The aim was to assess parent‐child interaction, to examine associations with clinical features, and to relate parent‐child interaction to EBF.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study of IF patients and PN graduates aged 1.5−18 years and one primary caregiver was performed in two Dutch multidisciplinary pediatric IF teams. Parent‐child interaction was observed using the Emotional Availability Scales (EAS), reported with the Parent Child Interaction Questionnaire (PACHIQ) and compared to normvalues when available. Associations between parent‐child interaction and clinical factors and EBF were examined. EBF was assessed using the Child Behavior Checklist. All measures are validated.

Results

A total of 41 parent‐child dyads were included, 17 (41.4%) received PN at time of assessment and median age was 8.9 [interquartile range 5.8−11.9] years. No significant differences in parent‐reported interaction compared to normative values or between PN‐receiving and weaned children were found. Exploratory multivariable regression indicated that only the child's female sex was significantly positively related to parent‐child interaction. Parent‐child interaction was negatively related to EBF for nonhostility, conflict resolution, and acceptance.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that (self‐reported) parent‐child interaction in IF patients and PN graduates is not significantly different as compared to healthy peers, and unrelated to clinical characteristics. However, aspects of parent‐child interaction were correlated to EBF, potentially being a target for prevention or intervention in children with diminished EBF.
Bacillus subtilis alleviates excessive apoptosis of intestinal epithelial cells in intrauterine growth restriction suckling piglets via the members of Bcl‐2 and caspase families
Authors: Xie Zechen , Yun Yang , Yu Ge , Zhang Xin , Zhang Hao , Wang Tian , Zhang Lili
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND

The intestine is a barrier resisting various stress responses. Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) can cause damage to the intestinal barrier via destroying the balance of intestinal epithelial cells' proliferation and apoptosis. Bacillus subtilis has been reported to regulate intestinal epithelial cells' proliferation and apoptosis. Thus, the purpose of this study was to determine if B. subtilis could regulate intestinal epithelial cells' proliferation and apoptosis in intrauterine growth restriction suckling piglets.

RESULTS

Compared with the normal birth weight group, the IUGR group showed greater mean optical density values of Ki‐67‐positive cells in the ileal crypt (P < 0.05). IUGR resulted in higher ability of proliferation and apoptosis of intestinal epithelial cells, by upregulation of the messenger RNA (mRNA) or proteins expression of leucine rich repeat containing G protein coupled receptor 5, Caspase‐3, Caspase‐7, β‐catenin, cyclinD1, B‐cell lymphoma‐2 associated agonist of cell death, and BCL2 associated X (P < 0.05), and downregulation of the mRNA or protein expression of B‐cell lymphoma‐2 and B‐cell lymphoma‐2‐like 1 (P < 0.05). However, B. subtilis supplementation decreased the mRNA or proteins expression of leucine rich repeat containing G protein coupled receptor 5, SPARC related modular calcium binding 2, tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily member 19, cyclinD1, Caspase‐7, β‐catenin, B‐cell lymphoma‐2 associated agonist of cell death, and Caspase‐3 (P < 0.05), and increased the mRNA expression of B‐cell lymphoma‐2 (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

IUGR led to excessive apoptosis of intestinal epithelial cells, which induced compensatory proliferation. However, B. subtilis treatment prevented intestinal epithelial cells of IUGR suckling piglets from excessive apoptosis. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
The impact of ultrasonic‐assisted extraction on the in vitro hypoglycemic activity of peach gum polysaccharide in relation to its conformational conversion
Authors: Chen Jiaxin , Zhou Mo , Xin Guang , Bi Jinfeng
Published: April 2024

Background

Peach gum (PG) is an exudate of the peach tree (Prunus persica of the Rosaceae family), which consists primarily of polysaccharides with a large molecular weight and branching structure. Consequently, PG can only swell in water and does not dissolve easily, which severely limits its application. Current conventional extraction methods for PG polysaccharide (PGPS) are time consuming and inefficient. This study investigated the impact of ultrasonic‐assisted extraction (UAE) on PGPS structure and conformation, and their relationship to hypoglycemic activity in vitro.

Results

In comparison with conventional aqueous extraction, UAE enhanced PGPS yielded from 28.07–32.83% to 80.37–84.90% (w/w) in 2 h. It drastically decreased the molecular size and conformational parameters of PGPS, including weight‐average molecular weight (Mw), number‐average molecular weight (Mn), z‐average radius of gyration (Rg), hydrodynamic radius (Rh) and instrinsic viscosity ([η]) values. Peach gum polysaccharide conformation converted extended molecules to flexible random coil chains or compact spheres with no obvious primary structure alteration. Furthermore, UAE altered the flow behavior of PGPS solution from that of a non‐Newtonian fluid to that of a Newtonian fluid. As a result, PGPS treated with UAE displayed weaker inhibitory activity than untreated PGPS, mostly because UAE weakens the binding strength of PGPS to α‐glucosidase. However, this negative effect of UAE on PGPS activity was compensated by the increased solubility of polysaccharide. This enabled PGPS to achieve a wider range of doses.

Conclusion

Ultrasonic‐assisted extraction is capable of degrading PGPS efficiently while preserving its primary structure, resulting in a Newtonian fluid solution. The degraded PGPS conformations displayed a consistent correlation with their inhibitory effect on α‐glucosidase activity. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Mechanical terracing regulates soil physicochemical properties and infiltration processes in the Loess Hilly Region of China
Authors: Wang Zhuoxiao , Yang Daming , Peng Xin , Chang Heng , Dai Wei , Zeng Yi , Ni Lingshan , Deng Lei , Fang Nufang
Published: April 2024

The widespread adoption of large‐scale machines has led to a significant shift in terrace construction methods, transitioning from manual labor to mechanical processes. Mechanical terracing, by deeply disturbing the surface and compaction of the soil, has resulted in significant variations in both the soil physicochemical properties (SPCs) and soil infiltration properties (SIPs). However, few studies have been carried out to investigate the impact mechanisms of mechanical terracing on soils. In this study, we conducted detailed field experiments to determine the effects of mechanical terracing on SPCs and SIPs. The results showed that mechanical terracing increased soil compaction and decreased soil porosity and organic matter compared to manual terracing. Moreover, mechanical terracing had lower initial and steady infiltration rates than manual terracing (decreasing by 2.60% and 18.59%, respectively). However, initial and steady infiltration rates significantly improved compared to sloped land, increasing by 20.82% and 54.68%, respectively. The partial least squares path model indicated that bulk weight, organic matter content, and soil texture were the dominant influencing factors of SIPs. The results underscore the critical need to incorporate distinctions between various terrace construction methods into hydrological models for more accurate predictions.
Concentration and compositional controls on degradation of permafrost‐derived dissolved organic matter on the Qinghai–Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Wang Yinghui , Wang Yasong , Han Lulu , McKenna Amy M. , Kellerman Anne M. , Spencer Robert G. M. , Yang Yuanhe , Xu Yunping
Published: April 2024

Understanding the fate of permafrost‐derived dissolved organic matter (DOM) is critical for unraveling its role in carbon cycling. However, it remains unclear whether the high lability of permafrost‐derived DOM can be attributed to intrinsic chemical properties or elevated carbon concentrations. We investigated the dynamics of permafrost DOM from the Qinghai–Tibetan Plateau using both biodegradation and photodegradation experiments. Biodegradation and photodegradation of permafrost‐derived DOM exhibited distinct qualitative preferences for specific chemical groups (i.e., peptide‐like and aromatics, respectively). Notably, reducing the initial concentration of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) by half and a quarter resulted in shifts in biodegradable DOC content from 11.2% to 11.5% and 8.5%, respectively, accompanied by a corresponding decrease in the biodegradation rate from 0.11 to 0.06 and 0.03. This insight highlights the importance of recognizing the interplay between DOM quality and concentration and bears broader significance for our understanding of the fate of permafrost‐derived DOM in natural ecosystems.
Precision feedback: A conceptual model
Authors: Landis‐Lewis Zach , Janda Allison M. , Chung Hana , Galante Patrick , Cao Yidan , Krumm Andrew E.
Published: April 2024

Introduction

When performance data are provided as feedback to healthcare professionals, they may use it to significantly improve care quality. However, the question of how to provide effective feedback remains unanswered, as decades of evidence have produced a consistent pattern of effects—with wide variation. From a coaching perspective, feedback is often based on a learner's objectives and goals. Furthermore, when coaches provide feedback, it is ideally informed by their understanding of the learner's needs and motivation. We anticipate that a “coaching”‐informed approach to feedback may improve its effectiveness in two ways. First, by aligning feedback with healthcare professionals' chosen goals and objectives, and second, by enabling large‐scale feedback systems to use new types of data to learn what kind of performance information is motivating in general. Our objective is to propose a conceptual model of precision feedback to support these anticipated enhancements to feedback interventions.

Methods

We iteratively represented models of feedback's influence from theories of motivation and behavior change, visualization, and human‐computer interaction. Through cycles of discussion and reflection, application to clinical examples, and software development, we implemented and refined the models in a software application to generate precision feedback messages from performance data for anesthesia providers.

Results

We propose that precision feedback is feedback that is prioritized according to its motivational potential for a specific recipient. We identified three factors that influence motivational potential: (1) the motivating information in a recipient's performance data, (2) the surprisingness of the motivating information, and (3) a recipient's preferences for motivating information and its visual display.

Conclusions

We propose a model of precision feedback that is aligned with leading theories of feedback interventions to support learning about the success of feedback interventions. We plan to evaluate this model in a randomized controlled trial of a precision feedback system that enhances feedback emails to anesthesia providers.
Susceptibility of Poly–Alpha Olefin and Diisooctyl Sebacate Base Oils With Different Polarities to Oleic Acid Surface–Capped Ultra‐Small Cerium Oxide Nanoparticle
Authors: Bian Lijie , Song Ningning , Yu Laigui , Zhang Yujuan , Zhang Pingyu , Zhang Shengmao
Published: April 2024

A key issue for nano‐additive to effectively exert tribological function is to ensure its entrance to and adhesion on the frictional contact surfaces. But the adhesion of nano‐additive on the rubbed surfaces under oil lubrication faces the challenge of the competitive adsorption of lubricant base oil thereon. In this study, oleic acid–modified ultra‐small cerium oxide (OA‐CeO2) nanoparticle was synthesised by one‐pot liquid‐phase surface‐modification method in the presence of OA as the surface modifier. The susceptibility of non‐polar poly–alpha olefin 6 (PAO6) and polar diisooctyl sebacate (DIOS) base oils to the as‐prepared OA‐CeO2 nano‐additive was investigated, and the effect of the OA‐CeO2 nano‐additive on the friction‐reducing and anti‐wear abilities of the two kinds of base oils towards a steel–steel sliding contact was investigated with four‐ball friction and wear tester. Furthermore, the tribological mechanism of the adsorption and deposition of the OA‐CeO2 nano‐additive on the surface of friction steel and the competitive adsorption of base oil were discussed. Characterisations by scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy demonstrate that the as‐prepared OA‐CeO2 nanoparticle is of a spherical shape and has an ultra‐small average size of 1.2 nm. As the lubricant additive in PAO6 and DIOS base oils, the OA‐CeO2 nano‐additive exhibits different tribological properties, which is attributed to the difference in the base oils' polarity. Namely, the CeO2 nanoparticle in the non‐polar PAO6 base oil is more easily adsorbed on the rubbed surface of the steel–steel sliding contact, thereby forming the CeO2 deposition film to improve the tribological properties of the base oil. However, the CeO2 nanoparticle added in polar DIOS base oil is difficult to form the CeO2 deposition film, because of the competitive and preferential adsorption of the polar base oil on the rubbed steel surface. Therefore, it is imperative to select the base oils with proper polarity to better exert the friction‐reducing and anti‐wear functions of the OA‐CeO2 nano‐additive.
Assessing Long‐Term Neurologic Outcomes in SAMD9L‐Related Ataxia‐Pancytopenia Syndrome
Authors: Zingariello Carla D. , Chen Dong‐Hui , Raskind Wendy H. , Slayton William B. , Subramony Sub , Severance Joyce , Feagle Megan , Rasmussen Sonja A.
Published: April 2024

Background

Most published reports on SAMD9L‐related ataxia‐pancytopenia syndrome (ATXPC) have emphasized the hematologic findings. Fewer details are known about the progression of neurologic manifestations and methods for monitoring them.

Cases

We present six individuals from two families transmitting a heterozygous variant in SAMD9L, exhibiting clinical variations in their hematologic and neurologic findings. Serial motor function testing was used to monitor motor proficiency over a 2 to 3 year period in the proband and his father from Family 1.

Conclusions

Our case series focuses on the neurologic progression in patients with heterozygous variants in SAMD9L. Patients with ATXPC should be followed to evaluate a wide range of neurologic manifestations. Serial motor function testing using a standardized method is helpful to track changes in balance and coordination in children and adults with ATXPC and could aid in a future extended natural history study.
Effects of partial passive ownership on the desirable production timing of the public utility in a mixed upstream market
Authors: Xu Lili , Zhang Yidan , Lee Sang‐Ho
Published: April 2024

We consider partial passive ownership (PPO) between upstream and downstream private firms and examine an endogenous production timing of a public utility in a mixed upstream market. We show that the production timing will shift from simultaneous to sequential as the PPO level decreases when the private share of the public utility ownership is low, which is mostly socially desirable. We also show that a higher private share does not yield socially desirable production timing irrespective of the PPO level, while a lower private share under the public utility's followership (Cournot competition) is optimal and time‐consistent when the PPO level is low (high). Our findings suggest that public utility ownership can be used as an industrial policy tool to coordinate desirable production timing.