bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of factorization machine with quantum annealing to hyperparameter optimization and metamodel‐based optimization in granular flow simulations
Authors: Xiao Junsen , Endo Katsuhiro , Muramatsu Mayu , Nomura Reika , Moriguchi Shuji , Terada Kenjiro
Published: June 2024

This study examined the applicability of factorization machines with quantum annealing (FMQA) to the field of landslide risk assessment for two specific black‐box optimization problems, hyperparameter optimization (HPO) for metamodeling and metamodel‐based simulation optimization (MBSO) targeting granular flow simulation using discrete element method (DEM). These two optimization problems are solved successively: HPO is first performed to determine the hyperparameters of the Gaussian process regression (GPR) metamodel, which is then used as a low‐cost, fast approximate solver of granular flow simulations for MBSO. After conducting a series of granular flow simulations using DEM, a metamodel is created that outputs a risk index of interest, the run‐out distance, from its input parameters by employing GPR with two hyperparameters, length‐scale and signal variance. Subsequently, HPO is performed to obtain the optimal set of hyperparameters by applying FMQA and other optimization methods using another set of hyperparameters determined using the gradient‐ascent method as the reference solution. Finally, using the metamodel created by each optimization method as an approximate solver for DEM simulations, MBSO is performed to find the optimal target output, the maximum run‐out distance, in the space of physical input parameters for risk assessment. A comparison of the performance of FMQA with that of other methods shows that FMQA is competitive in terms of efficiency and stability with state‐of‐the‐art algorithms such as Bayesian optimization.
Overcoming the lack of annotated medical images by non‐expert annotation?
Authors: Klingner Carsten M. , Hemm Sophia , Wagner Franziska , Mayer Thomas E. , Guellmar Daniel , Witte Otto W. , Brodoehl Stefan
Published: June 2024

Objective

Early diagnosis of ischemic stroke is crucial. While CT scans are recommended, interpreting them is challenging. Machine learning can aid interpretation, but the lack of large datasets hinders its development. We explored if non‐expert labeling enhances the performance of a deep learning system trained on expert‐labeled datasets.

Methods

One‐hundred eight CT datasets were labeled for suspected strokes by both an expert and a non‐expert. A DenseNet121 model was trained on either expert data alone or with added non‐expert data. Both models were tested using expert‐only data, evaluating performance metrics such as accuracy, sensitivity, and F1 score.

Results

Expert and non‐expert labeling showed strong agreement (Cohen's kappa: 0.83). Adding non‐expert data enhanced model accuracy from 86.2% to 87.7% (p < .001) and the F1 score from 86.5% to 88.4% for non‐stroke images, and from 85.7% to 87.0% for stroke images.

Conclusion

Machine learning performance in stroke detection can benefit from non‐expert labeled datasets. The implications for other medical conditions and the effect on larger datasets are yet to be determined. This could potentially address the issue of scarce labeled stroke imaging datasets.
Presence of High Density Positive Fixed Charges at ALD–Al2O3/GaN (cap) Interface for Efficient Recovery of 2‐DEG in Ultrathin‐Barrier AlGaN/GaN Heterostructure
Authors: Zhang Han , Huang Sen , Guo Fuqiang , Deng Kexin , Jiang Qimeng , Yin Haibo , Wei Ke , Gao Xinguo , Zhang Zhaofu , Wang Xinhua , Shen Bo , Liu Xinyu
Published: June 2024

The ultrathin‐barrier (UTB) AlGaN/GaN heterostructure exhibits great promise as a technology for manufacturing high‐performance normally OFF GaN metal–insulator–semiconductor high‐electron‐mobility transistors (MIS–HEMTs) due to its unique gate recess‐free feature. However, a critical challenge in UTB MIS–HEMTs is the recovery of the 2D electron gas in the access region, particularly with regard to achieving low ON resistance. In this study, a new approach is proposed to address this issue by utilizing a low‐thermal‐budget Al2O3 film grown through atomic layer deposition (ALD). By analyzing the capacitance–voltage characteristic and correlating it with the threshold voltage shift versus dielectric thicknesses for SiNx and Al2O3, high density of positive fixed charges (≈2.382 × 1013 cm−2) is confirmed to be induced at the interface between ALD–Al2O3 and GaN (cap), which is also in good agreement with 1D Poisson simulations of energy band diagrams. The positive charges are probably originated from the interface AlAl bonds revealed by X‐Ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis.
Dynamically Tunable Half‐Ring Fano Resonator Based on Black Phosphorus
Authors: Cheng Junyan , Zeng Weiliang , Zhang Wen , Xu Yuanmei , Wen Kunhua , Sun Weijun , Fang Xiaozhao , Huang Yonghui , Li Xue‐Shi
Published: June 2024

A tunable material black phosphorus (BP) terahertz (THz) half‐ring Fano resonator is proposed, exhibiting enhanced sensitivity, tunable frequency parameters, and the flexible sensing range. A half‐ring is positioned above the main channel, while a groove is excavated beneath it to produce the Fano resonance. The discrete mode of the half‐ring is coupled with the continuous mode of the groove, leading to a significantly enhanced sensitivity. This sensor can pick up subtle changes in the surrounding environment. Additionally, the incorporation of BP into the half‐ring positioned above the channel enables the flexible adjustment of the Fano resonator's resonant frequency. This adjustment is achieved through the manipulation of the electron doping concentration of the BP material. At the third‐order resonance around 5.81 THz, the frequency shift margin can reach 160 GHz. Adjusting the structural parameters of the Fano resonator, such as the radius of its outer ring, the distance of this ring to the main channel, and the groove's height, significantly affects its transmission spectrum. The Fano resonator demonstrates its considerable potential for applications in the field of integrated electronics. It not only provides an innovative design perspective, but also lays the foundation for the study of THz systems.
A machine‐learning approach to thunderstorm forecasting through post‐processing of simulation data
Authors: Vahid Yousefnia Kianusch , Bölle Tobias , Zöbisch Isabella , Gerz Thomas
Published: June 2024

Thunderstorms pose a major hazard to society and the economy, which calls for reliable thunderstorm forecasts. In this work, we introduce SALAMA, a feedforward neural network model for identifying thunderstorm occurrence in numerical weather prediction (NWP) data. The model is trained on convection‐resolving ensemble forecasts over central Europe and lightning observations. Given only a set of pixel‐wise input parameters that are extracted from NWP data and related to thunderstorm development, SALAMA infers the probability of thunderstorm occurrence in a reliably calibrated manner. For lead times up to 11 h, we find a forecast skill superior to classification based only on NWP reflectivity. Varying the spatiotemporal criteria by which we associate lightning observations with NWP data, we show that the time‐scale for skillful thunderstorm predictions increases linearly with the spatial scale of the forecast.
Comparison of the in vivo kinematics between robotic‐assisted Bi‐cruciate retaining and Bi‐cruciate stabilised total knee arthroplasty
Authors: Wong Ashley Ying‐Ying , Ong Michael Tim‐Yun , Choi Tsz Lung , Lam Gloria Yan‐Ting , He Xin , Yu Mingqian , Choi Ben Chi‐Yin , Fong Daniel T. P. , Yung Patrick Shu‐Hang
Published: June 2024

Background

Up to 20% of patients remain unsatisfied after total knee arthroplasty (TKA), prompting the development of new implants. Bi‐Cruciate Retaining (BCR) TKA preserves both the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and posterior cruciate ligament (PCL), with the ACL beneficial for its proprioceptive qualities. The Bi‐Cruciate Stabilised (BCS) TKA substitutes the ACL and PCL with a unique dual cam‐post mechanism. Robotics improve accuracy and facilitate technically demanding TKA.

Methods

This was a retrospective case‐control study recruited from two centres. Measured outcomes included kinematic analysis, proprioception, and functional outcomes.

Results

There was a significantly larger maximum flexion angle and range of flexion to extension in sit‐to‐stand and stairs in BCR when compared to BCS. Further analysis revealed more similarities between BCR and normal native knees. Proprioception and functional scores did not have any statistical difference.

Conclusion

BCR TKA demonstrated better knee flexion in weight‐bearing active range of motion and showed similarities with normal knee kinematics.
Input‐to‐state stability of impulsive stochastic systems with state‐dependent impulses and regime‐switching
Authors: Kuang Daipeng , Gao Dongdong , Li Jianli
Published: June 2024

This article introduces a unified criterion for input‐to‐state stability (ISS), integral input‐to‐state stability (iISS) and ‐input‐to‐state stability (‐ISS) of impulsive stochastic system with switching. The criterion demonstrates that the premise of a switching‐impulse system to achieve three types of ISS is that a mutually constraining relationship between switching, impulse and continuous dynamics needs to be satisfied. Furthermore, using it we know that switching can stabilize a system containing stabilizing factors by affecting both continuous dynamics and impulses, that switching itself is one of the factors in system instability, and that impulses have a dual effect on the stability of the system. The coefficients of the upper bound of Lyapunov functional differential operators are time‐varying functions and the impulses contain stable and unstable impulses, including the case of constants, which advances and improves the existing results. Finally, an example and its simulation results are given to verify the validity of theoretical analysis.
No‐till impacts on soil organic carbon and soil quality in the Lower Mississippi River basin: Implications for sustainable management
Authors: Amorim Helen C. S. , Ashworth Amanda J. , Partson Mubvumba , Savin Mary C. , Anapalli Saseendran S. , Reddy Krishna N.
Published: June 2024

No‐till (NT) alleviates adverse effects of agricultural production on environmental quality, improves soil health, and reduces greenhouse gas emissions, yet this has not been demonstrated in humid subtropical Mississippi. Research objectives were to evaluate nutrient and C dynamics and soil quality via Soil Management Assessment Framework (SMAF) following 15 years of continuous management under corn (Zea mays L.) (2008–2018) and soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] (2019–2022) on a Dundee silt loam soil. After 15 years, soil organic carbon (SOC) stocks (0‐ to 30‐cm depth) under NT were 25% higher than conventional tillage (CT). Between 2020 and 2022, SOC stocks increased 3 Mg ha−1 under NT and decreased 2 Mg ha−1 under CT. Increased SOC retention under NT could represent an opportunity for increasing the systems’ profitability as C markets expand. Greater SOC and aggregation scores improved SMAF soil quality index (SQI) under NT (71%), compared to CT (66%), underscoring the critical role of organic matter in soil functioning in managed agrosystems. Soybean yields were not linked to SMAF SQI (p > 0.05), suggesting that crop yields are mostly affected by non‐edaphic factors (e.g., climate extremes). SMAF illustrated positive impacts of NT on SOC sequestration and soil health, which may foster its adoption as a conservation practice in the Lower Mississippi River basin. As such, NT stands as a climate‐smart management practice that allows for sustainable intensification in humid subtropical regions.
Does fishery digitalization matter in the sustainable development of fisheries? Evidence from China
Authors: Ji Jianyue , Li Yanming
Published: June 2024

The wave of digital development is sweeping across the globe today, exerting profound impacts on various aspects of human society. As an important industry in the national economy, it is worth studying whether the sustainable development of fisheries is influenced by digitalization. Based on this, taking the fishery development in 30 provinces of China from 2011 to 2021 as an example, this article examines how digitalization affects fishery sustainable development, and conducts an expansive study on the fishery regional innovation capacity. The article finds that Chinese fishery digitalization accelerates fishery sustainable development by promoting technological progress and enhancing technological efficiency, and this promotion effect exhibits different characteristics due to varying levels of fishery sustainable development and regional disparities. Furthermore, the exploratory analysis reveals that as the fishery regional innovation capacity improves, the promoting effect of fishery digitalization on sustainable development gradually strengthens. This article has great significance in theory and reality for guaranteeing food security and realizing fishery sustainable development.
Substantive or symbolic ? The strategic choice of sustainable environmental strategy for enterprises induced by the new environmental protection law
Authors: Zhang Yang , Deng Yaling , Yang Ourong , Xia De , Liu Haiyun
Published: June 2024

The new “Environmental Protection Law” (abbreviated as NEPL) holds milestone significance for the construction of China's ecological legal system. However, evidence regarding the impact of NEPL on sustainable environmental strategy (abbreviated as SES) still lacks empirical analysis. This study aims to examine the mechanisms and boundary conditions through which the NEPL influences SES. Utilizing a difference‐in‐differences approach, an empirical analysis is conducted on the data of listed companies on the Shanghai and Shenzhen A‐shares from 2008 to 2021. The findings are as follows: (1) NEPL has significantly promoted both the substantive environmental strategy (abbreviated as SUB) and symbolic environmental strategy (abbreviated as SYM) of heavily polluting enterprises. Compared with SYM, the impact of NEPL on SUB is more significant. (2) Analyst coverage plays a significantly positive moderating role in the relationship between NEPL and SUB, while managerial myopia plays a significantly positive moderating role in the relationship between NEPL and SYM. (3) Environmental legitimacy pressure exerts a mediating effect on the relationship between NEPL and SES. The research findings enrich existing theories related to strategic choice and environmental policy under government intervention and provide policy recommendations for enterprises to achieve sustainable development in the context of NEPL.
The effect of CNT grafting on the mechanical properties of the UHMWPE fiber/HDPE composite
Authors: Jian Li , Gaofeng Xu
Published: June 2024

In order to improve the mechanical properties of the ultra‐high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) fiber‐reinforced high‐density polyethylene (HDPE) composite, carbon nanotube (CNT) was grafted on the UHMWPE fiber. The UHMWPE fiber/HDPE composite was prepared by injection molding process, and the effects of CNT contents on the mechanical properties of composite materials were studied. The results show that the mass fraction of CNT will significantly affect the mechanical properties of the composite. When the CNT content is 4 wt%, the tensile strength, tensile modulus, flexural strength, flexural modulus, and impact strength of the UHMWPE fiber/treated CNT/HDPE composite increased compared to the UHMWPE fiber/CNT/HDPE composite and UHMWPE fiber/HDPE composite. When the CNT content is 4 wt%, the above‐mentioned performance is the best. Pull‐out and fracture, bridging effect, and crack deflection effect are the main mechanisms of CNTs in UHMWPE fiber/HDPE composites. This study provides new insights into the interface design of UHMWPE fiber/HDPE composites and paves the way for their further development.
Pigment Epithelium Derived Factor Drives Melanocyte Proliferation and Migration in Neurofibromatosis Café Au Lait Macules
Authors: Lovatt Charlotte , Williams Megan , Gibbs Alex , Mukhtar Abdullahi , Morgan Huw J. , Lanfredini Simone , Olivero Carlotta , Spurlock Gill , Davies Sally , Philpott Charlotte , Tovell Hannah , Turnpenny Peter , Baban Dilair , Knight Sam , Brems Hilde , Sampson Julian R. , Legius Eric , Upadhyaya Meena , Patel Girish K.
Published: June 2024

Background

RASopathies, which include neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1), are defined by Ras/mitogen-activated protein kinase (Ras/MAPK) pathway activation. They represent a group of clinically related disorders often characterised by multiple Café au Lait Macules (CALMs).

Objectives

To determine, using in depth transcriptomic analysis of NF1 melanocytes from CALM and unaffected skin, (1) the gene(s) responsible for melanocyte proliferation and migration, and (2) the activated signalling pathway(s) in NF1 melanoma.

Methods

Classical NF1 (n = 2, who develop tumours) and 3bp deletion NF1 (p. Met992del, who do not develop tumours) (n = 3) patients underwent skin biopsies from CALM and unaffected skin. Melanocytes were isolated and propagated, with five replicates from each tissue sample. DNA and RNA were extracted for mutational analysis and transcriptomic profiling with six replicates per sample. Mechanistic determination was undertaken using melanocyte and melanoma cell lines.

Results

All CALMs in NF1 were associated with biallelic NF1 loss, resulting in amplification of Ras/MAPK and Wnt pathway signalling. CALMs were also associated with reduced SERPINF1 gene expression (and pigment epithelium-derived factor (PEDF) levels, the reciprocal protein), a known downstream target of the master regulator of melanocyte differentiation microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF), leading to increased melanocyte proliferation, migration and invasion. In classical NF1 and melanoma, but not 3bp deletion NF1, there was also activation of the PI3K/AKT pathway. Pigment epithelium-derived factor was found to reduce cell proliferation and invasion of NF1 melanoma.

Conclusions

Melanocyte proliferation and migration leading to CALMs in NF1 arises from biallelic NF1 loss, resulting in RAS/MAPK pathway activation, and reduced expression of the tumour suppressor PEDF. Activation of the PI3K/AKT pathway in classical NF1 and NF1 melanoma may facilitate tumour growth.
Primary Vulval Melanoma and Genital Lichen Sclerosus
Authors: Mastoraki Evanthia , Kravvas Georgios , Dear Kate , Sim Sharmaine , James Mariel , Watchorn Richard , Haider Aiman , Ellery Peter , Freeman Alex , Basha Mahfooz , Edmonds Emma , Bunker Christopher B.
Published: June 2024

Background

Lichen sclerosus (LS) is a chronic, inflammatory skin disease with a predilection for the genitalia. Although, the association between squamous cell cancer and genital LS is well established, a link with genital melanoma has not been thoroughly explored. However, we have recently published a case series of penile melanoma where 9/11 (82%) of patients seen over a 10 year period with penile melanoma were retrospectively found to have histological and/or clinical evidence of genital LS on review.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to illuminate further the relationship between vulval melanoma and genital LS by reviewing all the cases managed by our hospital and undertaking a literature review.

Methods

We identified all the cases with a diagnosis of vulval melanoma over a 16-year period (2006–2022) where histology was available. The clinical notes were retrospectively reviewed, and the histological features of all cases were reassessed by two independent mutually ‘blinded’ histopathologists. We also performed a literature review of genital LS in patients with vulval melanoma.

Results

A total of 11 patients with vulval melanoma were identified for the review. Histopathological review found evidence of genital LS in seven of them (64%). Genital LS was not documented in any of the original histology reports. Clinical notes and letters were available in nine cases. The literature review identified 12 relevant studies with a total of 18 patients. Twelve cases concerned adult women, and six concerned female children.

Conclusion

The presence of genital LS in as high as 64% of our vulval melanoma cases might indicate a causative relationship between genital LS and vulval melanoma. The pathogenesis of vulval melanoma remains largely unknown. Although ultraviolet radiation is an important pathogenic factor for cutaneous melanoma, it cannot be a factor in vulval melanoma. While possible mechanisms behind this association remain unclear, it is possible that chronic inflammation from genital LS leads to melanocytic distress and increased mutagenesis.
In Vivo Endothelial Cell Gene Silencing by siRNA‐LNPs Tuned with Lipoamino Bundle Chemical and Ligand Targeting
Authors: Yazdi Mina , Pöhmerer Jana , Hasanzadeh Kafshgari Morteza , Seidl Johanna , Grau Melina , Höhn Miriam , Vetter Victoria , Hoch Cosima C. , Wollenberg Barbara , Multhoff Gabriele , Bashiri Dezfouli Ali , Wagner Ernst
Published: June 2024

Although small‐interfering RNAs (siRNAs) are specific silencers for numerous disease‐related genes, their clinical applications still require safe and effective means of delivery into target cells. Highly efficient lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) are developed for siRNA delivery, showcasing the advantages of novel pH‐responsive lipoamino xenopeptide (XP) carriers. These sequence‐defined XPs are assembled by branched lysine linkages between cationizable polar succinoyl tetraethylene pentamine (Stp) units and apolar lipoamino fatty acids (LAFs) at various ratios into bundle or U‐shape topologies. Formulation of siRNA‐LNPs using LAF4‐Stp1 XPs as ionizable compounds led to robust cellular uptake, high endosomal escape, and successful in vitro gene silencing activity at an extremely low (150 picogram) siRNA dose. Of significance is the functional in vivo endothelium tropism of siRNA‐LNPs with bundle LAF4‐Stp1 XP after intravenous injection into mice, demonstrated by superior knockdown of liver sinusoidal endothelial cell (LSEC)‐derived factor VIII (FVIII) and moderate silencing of hepatocyte‐derived FVII compared to DLin‐MC3‐DMA‐based LNPs. Optimizing lipid composition following click‐modification of siRNA‐LNPs with ligand c(RGDfK) efficiently silenced vascular endothelial growth factor receptor‐2 (VEGFR‐2) in tumor endothelial cells (TECs). The findings shed light on the role of ionizable XPs in the LNP in vivo cell‐type functional targeting, laying the groundwork for future therapeutic applications.
Aptamer and Thiol Co‐Regulated Color‐Shifting Fluorophores via Dynamic Through‐Bond/Space Conjugation for Constructing Ratiometric RNA Sensor
Authors: Ma Xuan , Zhang Yangzi , Zhu Longjiao , Wu Yifan , Li Jun , Huang Kunlun , Xu Wentao
Published: June 2024

Fluorophores with color‐shifting characteristics have attracted enormous research interest in the quantitative application of RNA sensors. It reports here a simple synthesis, luminescent properties, and co‐transcription ability of de‐conjugated triphenylmethane leucomalachite green (LMG). This novel clusteroluminescence fluorophore is rapidly synthesized from malachite green (MG) in reductive transcription system containing dithiothreitol, emitting fluorescence in the UV region through space conjugation. The co‐transcribed MG RNA aptamer (MGA) bound to the ligand, resulting in red fluorescence from the through‐bond conjugation. Given the equilibrated color‐shifting fluorophores, they are rationally employed in a 3WJ‐based rolling circle transcription switch, with the target‐aptamer acting as an activator to achieve steric allosterism. This one‐pot system allows the target to compete continuously for allosteric sites, and the activated transcription switches continue to amplify MGA forward, achieving accurate Aflatoxin 1 quantification at the picomolar level in 1 h. Due to the programmability of this RNA sensor, the design method of target‐competitive aptamers is standardized, making it universally applicable.
Fluorinated Co‐Solvents Enable Excellent Performances of Practical Cells Comprising LixSiO‐Graphite Composite Anodes and LiNi0.89Co0.05Mn0.05Al0.01O2 (NCMA) Cathodes
Authors: Vangapally Naresh , Lusztig David , Rathod Suman , Bano Amreen , Scalar Hadar , Akella Sri Harsha , Noked Malachi , Major Dan.T. , Halalay Ion C. , Sriramulu Suresh , Luski Shalom , Aurbach Doron
Published: June 2024

Li‐ion batteries based on high specific capacity LixSiO‐Graphite anodes and LiNi0.89Co0.05 Mn0.05Al0.01O2 (NCMA) cathodes may have numerous practical applications owing to high energy density without a necessary compromise on safety. SiO, which is an attractive Li insertion anode material, offers more cycling stability than Si and a higher capacity than graphite. Therefore, a new trend has emerged for developing composite C‐Si anodes, possessing the excellent cyclability of graphite coupled with high capacity SiO. The composite structure described herein prevents the volume expansion of SiO and maintains the structural integrity during prolonged cycling. However, graphite electrodes suffer from exfoliation in propylene carbonate (PC) based electrolyte solutions, which avoids well known safety benefits related to a possible use of PC based electrolyte solutions in all kinds of Li batteries. Herein, it is reported that trifluoro propylene carbonate (TFPC) is compatible with graphite anodes. New electrolyte formulations are developed and tested containing fluorinated co‐solvents and compared the performance of several electrolyte solutions, including conventional alkyl carbonates‐based solutions in full Li‐ion cells, which included LixSiO‐Graphite anodes and LiNi0.89Co0.05Mn0.05Al0.01O2 (NCMA) cathodes. Cells with new electrolyte solutions developed herein demonstrated nearly twice capacity retention in prolonged cycling experiments compared to similar reference cells containing conventional electrolyte solutions.
Strong and Robust Core–Shell Ceramic Fibers Composed of Highly Compacted Nanoparticles for Multifunctional Electronic Skin
Authors: Hu Yunfeng , Cheng Zhi , Gao Jie , Liu Yongping , Yan Peng , Ding Qi , Fan Yuchi , Jiang Wan
Published: June 2024

Functional fibers composed of textiles are considered a promising platform for constructing electronic skin (e‐skin). However, developing robust electronic fibers with integrated multiple functions remains a formidable task especially when a complex service environment is concerned. In this work, a continuous and controllable strategy is demonstrated to prepare e‐skin‐oriented ceramic fibers via coaxial wet spinning followed by cold isostatic pressing. The resulting core–shell structured fiber with tightly compacted Al‐doped ZnO nanoparticles in the core and highly ordered aramid nanofibers in the shell exhibit excellent tensile strength (316 MPa) with ultra‐high elongation (33%). Benefiting from the susceptible contacts between conducting ceramic nanoparticles, the ceramic fiber shows both ultrahigh sensitivity (gauge factor = 2141) as a strain sensor and a broad working range up to 70 °C as a temperature sensor. Furthermore, the tunable core–shell structure of the fiber enables the optimization of impedance matching and attenuation of electromagnetic waves for the corresponding textile, resulting in a minimum reflection loss of −39.1 dB and an effective absorption bandwidth covering the whole X‐band. Therefore, the versatile core–shell ceramic fiber‐derived textile can serve as a stealth e‐skin for monitoring the motion and temperature of robots under harsh conditions.
Heterotypic Seeding Generates Mixed Amyloid Polymorphs
Authors: Banerjee Siddhartha , Baghel Divya , Edmonds Harrison O. , Ghosh Ayanjeet
Published: June 2024

Aggregation of the amyloid β (Aβ) peptide into fibrils represents one of the major biochemical pathways underlying the development of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Extensive studies have been carried out to understand the role of fibrillar seeds on the overall kinetics of amyloid aggregation. However, the precise effect of seeds that are structurally or sequentially different from Aβ on the structure of the resulting amyloid aggregates is yet to be fully understood. Herein, nanoscale infrared spectroscopy is used to probe the spectral facets of individual aggregates formed by aggregating Aβ42 with antiparallel fibrillar seeds of Aβ(16–22) and E22Q Aβ(1–40) Dutch mutant and it is demonstrated that Aβ can form heterotypic or mixed polymorphs that deviate significantly from its expected parallel cross β structure. It is further shown that the formation of heterotypic aggregates is not limited to the coaggregation of Aβ and its isomers, and that the former can form heterotypic fibrils with alpha‐synuclein and brain protein lysates. These findings highlight the complexity of Aβ aggregation in AD and underscore the need to explore how Aβ interacts with other brain components, which is crucial for developing better therapeutic strategies for AD.
Full‐Polarimetric Synthesized Holographic Displaying Empowered by Chirality‐Assisted Metasurface
Authors: Yuan Yueyi , Zhou Wenjie , Zhang He , Wang Yuxiang , Zong Hua , Wang Yue , Dong Yongkang , Burokur Shah Nawaz , Zhang Kuang
Published: June 2024

Metasurface‐based holography provides tremendous advances in multi‐dimensional detection, super‐resolution imaging, and cryptography applications. Current mainstream researches on holographic metasurface are primarily focused on exploring degrees of freedom to enhance information multiplexing capability. Nevertheless, from the information security point of view, it is necessary to integrate existing available freedom resources, such as multi‐polarization components, to enhance the security of holographic encryption. Herein, a full‐polarimetric synthetization scheme is proposed for holographic displaying to develop a novel approach for information and imaging encryption. By exploiting chirality‐assisted metasurface as the implementation platform, quadruplex circular polarization components are independently phase‐modulated with separate holographic sub‐imaging. For an intuitive demonstration, linear polarization is set as the encoded state to acquire the synthesized intensity image with “HIT” characters. Hence, the output holographic information in transmission field can be successfully distinguished with the valid polarization. Additionally, the sensitivity and robustness property of the synthesized holographic performance is experimentally evaluated against ergodic elliptical polarization states, where the optimal performance of working efficiency and signal‐to‐noise ratio only appear under the preset linear polarizations. These results effectively prove the feasibility of the polarization integration hologram, opening the door to novel solutions for future full‐polarimetric encryption strategies.
The skilled worker premium and labor's share of income: Recent trends in U.S. manufacturing
Authors: Sedgley Norman , Elmslie Bruce
Published: June 2024

A well‐established literature documents the role of outsourcing and technological change in explaining the growing skills premium in the U.S. economy from the 1970s through the late 1990s. In the 1980s labor's share of income relative to capital also began to decline. These two trends continue through the great recession. Separate literatures identify different reasons for the change in the skills premium and the decline in labor's share. This article considers the explanations for these two phenomena in a unified framework. The analysis is based on U.S. manufacturing data from 2002 through 2017, a period when there were significant shifts in the rate of growth in outsourcing and market concentration.
Faecal volatile organic compounds differ according to inflammatory bowel disease sub‐type, severity, and response to treatment in paediatric patients
Authors: Belnour Salma , Slater Rachael , Tharmaratnam Kukatharmini , Karl‐Heinz Auth Marcus , Muhammed Rafeeq , Spray Christine , Wang Duolao , Zeeshan Ijaz Umer , Probert Chris , Allen Stephen
Published: June 2024

Background

Faecal volatile organic compounds (VOCs) differ with disease sub‐type and activity in adults with established inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) taking therapy.

Objective

To describe patterns of faecal VOCs in children newly presented with IBD according to disease sub‐type, severity, and response to treatment.

Methods

Children presenting with suspected IBD were recruited from three UK hospitals. Children in whom IBD was diagnosed were matched with a non‐IBD child for age, sex, and recruitment site. Faecal VOCs were characterised by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry at presentation and 3 months later in children with IBD.

Results

In 132 case/control pairs, median (inter‐quartile range) age in IBD was 13.3 years (10.2–14.7) and 38.6% were female. Compared with controls, the mean abundance of 27/62 (43.6%) faecal VOCs was statistically significantly decreased in Crohn's disease (CD), ulcerative colitis (UC) or both especially amongst ketones/diketones, fatty acids, and alcohols (p < 0.05). Short‐chain, medium chain, and branched chain fatty acids were markedly reduced in severe colitis (p < 0.05). Despite clinical improvement in many children with IBD, the number and abundance of almost all VOCs did not increase following treatment, suggesting persistent dysbiosis. Oct‐1‐en‐3‐ol was increased in CD (p = 0.001) and UC (p = 0.012) compared with controls and decreased following treatment in UC (p = 0.01). In CD, propan‐1‐ol was significantly greater than controls (p < 0.001) and extensive colitis (p = 0.001) and fell with treatment (p = 0.05). Phenol was significantly greater in CD (p < 0.001) and fell with treatment in both CD (p = 0.02) and UC (p = 0.01).

Conclusion

Characterisation of faecal VOCs in an inception cohort of children with IBD reveals patterns associated with diagnosis, disease activity, and extent. Further work should investigate the relationship between VOCs and the microbiome in IBD and their role in diagnosis and disease monitoring.
Investigation of prevalence and antimicrobial resistance of Salmonella in pet dogs and cats in Turkey
Authors: Yildiz Merve , Demirbilek Serpil Kahya
Published: June 2024

Background

Although salmonellosis is considered to be a foodborne zoonotic disease, pets can play a significant role in the dissemination of antimicrobial‐resistant Salmonella organisms to humans because of close contact with their owners.

Objectives

To determine the prevalence, risk factors, virulence factors, serotypes, and antimicrobial resistance profile of Salmonella in pet dogs and cats in Turkey and to assess the public health risk. Furthermore, to perform macroscopic comparison of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) in Salmonella‐positive and Salmonella‐negative animals.

Methods

International Standards Organization (ISO) 6579‐1:2017 and Food and Drug Administration (FDA) methods were used to compare the effectiveness of culture methods in the identification of Salmonella in 348 rectal swabs. Positive isolates were serotyped using the slide agglutination method according to the White‐Kauffmann‐Le Minor scheme and the presence of virulence genes (invA and stn) were evaluated by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Antimicrobial activity was tested by Kirby–Bauer disk diffusion method according to Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) guidelines.

Results

Salmonella prevalence was 5.73% (9/157) in dogs and 0.0% (0/191) in cats. Eight (8/9) isolates were cultured with the ISO method and 5 (5/9) isolates were cultured with the FDA method. Macroscopic results revealed that Salmonella agents had no effect on LAB. Three different serotypes were detected and all isolates were positive for virulence genes. Antibiotic resistance profiling indicated that 11.1% of the isolates were MDR and the highest resistance was found for ciprofloxacin. MDR‐resistant S. Virchow and carbapenem‐resistant S. Enteritidis were detected from dog isolates. There was a significant difference between raw meat consumption and Salmonella carriage (p < 0.01).

Conclusions

Dogs could be potential carriers of Salmonella infection. The isolation of Salmonella in healthy dogs instead of dogs suffering from diarrhoea indicates that attention should be paid to asymptomatic carriage. The emergence of resistance among zoonotic Salmonella isolates poses a significant threat to public health.
Comparison of two different electrosurgical devices in reduction mammoplasty: Monopolar electrocautery versus plasmakinetic cautery
Authors: Koplay Tugba Gun
Published: June 2024

Background

Many devices are used for dissection and hemostasis during reduction mammoplasty. While one of the most common methods is monopolar electrocautery, tissue damage due to thermal spread remains a controversial topic. New devices have been designed to minimize this effect. In this study, plasmakinetic cautery was hypothesized to reduce sensation loss, drainage, and wound‐healing problems in reduction mammoplasty because it is less harmful to the surrounding tissues.

Methods

Sixty‐eight patients were evaluated in a matched pair design, with random (blinded) assignment of 34 patients with conventional monopolar electrocautery (Group A) and 34 patients with plasmakinetic cautery (group B). Postoperative drainage volume, drain duration, nipple‐areolar complex (NAC) sensation, and complications (dehiscence, seroma, ischemia, and nipple circulatory problems) were compared by the researcher, who was blinded to the device used for the patient.

Results

The groups were comparable in terms of age, body mass index (BMI), comorbidities, and medications (p > 0.05). The mean age of the patients were 38.50 ± 9.14 years in group A and 37.54 ± 8.17 in group B. The mean BMI was 25.19 ± 3.22 kg/m2 in group A and 25.65 ± 2.96 kg/m2 in group B. No differences were detected between the groups in terms of drain duration time, NAC sensation, or complications, but the drainage volume was statistically lower with plasmakinetic cautery (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

The study findings indicate that the main advantage of plasmakinetic cautery in reduction mammoplasty was a decrease in drainage volume when compared with monopolar electrocautery.
Revealing the hidden RBP–RNA interactions with RNA modification enzyme‐based strategies
Authors: Jin Hua , Li Chong , Jia Yunxiao , Qi Yuxuan , Piao Weilan
Published: June 2024

RNA‐binding proteins (RBPs) are powerful and versatile regulators in living creatures, playing fundamental roles in organismal development, metabolism, and various diseases by the regulation of gene expression at multiple levels. The requirements of deep research on RBP function have promoted the rapid development of RBP–RNA interplay detection methods. Recently, the detection method of fusing RNA modification enzymes (RME) with RBP of interest has become a hot topic. Here, we reviewed RNA modification enzymes in adenosine deaminases that act on RNA (ADAR), terminal nucleotidyl transferase (TENT), and activation‐induced cytosine deaminase/ApoB mRNA editing enzyme catalytic polypeptide‐like (AID/APOBEC) protein family, regarding the biological function, biochemical activity, and substrate specificity originated from enzyme selves, their domains and partner proteins. In addition, we discussed the RME activity screening system, and the RME mutations with engineered enzyme activity. Furthermore, we provided a systematic overview of the basic principles, advantages, disadvantages, and applications of the RME‐based and cross‐linking and immunopurification (CLIP)‐based RBP target profiling strategies, including targets of RNA‐binding proteins identified by editing (TRIBE), RNA tagging, surveying targets by APOBEC‐mediated profiling (STAMP), CLIP‐seq, and their derivative technology.

This article is categorized under:

RNA Interactions with Proteins and Other Molecules > Protein‐RNA Recognition

RNA Processing > RNA Editing and Modification
The Peculiar Molecular [(IF5)6(HF2)4]4− Anion of the Compound K4[(IF5)6(HF2)4]
Authors: Koch Björn N. , Graubner Tim , Kraus Florian
Published: June 2024

K4[(IF5)6(HF2)4] was obtained from the reaction of K[HF2] with liquid IF5. The compound was analyzed by single crystal and powder X‐ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, and quantum‐chemical calculations. It contains the largest molecular IF5/HF2− complex anion known so far. Surprisingly, the crystal structure of the A4B compound can be related to the Hg4Pt structure type.
Developing a Whole (Pre)school Approach to Sustainability: Insights from Global Citizenship and Early Childhood Education Across Nordic Countries
Authors: Borg Farhana , Samuelsson Ingrid Pramling , Gericke Niklas
Published: June 2024

Early childhood education aims to support children to develop cognitive, social, and motor skills, alongside values and ethics central to sustainability. From a Nordic perspective, this chapter reflects on how global citizenship education in preschool can illuminate possibilities and barriers to developing a whole school approach to sustainability. A review of Nordic policy and research identified four perspectives rooted in the global citizenship tradition that can support a whole school approach to sustainability:The greening of the whole preschool; The whole child’s learning; Wholeness in preschool teaching;andThematic approach as a perspective on a whole preschool.We propose thatefforts to implement a whole school approach to sustainability could be aligned with these perspectives. Nonetheless, Nordic preschools currently lack robust engagement with society—a perspective that requires further cultivation. To advance, empirical studies are needed to explore how a whole school approach to sustainability can be developed and implemented within preschool education.
Activating the Petals in the ‘WSA Flower Model’: Critical Factors for Sustaining Schools’ Pathways Towards a Whole-School Approach
Authors: Eikeland Ingrid , Sinnes Astrid
Published: June 2024

In this chapter, we describe four Norwegian upper secondary schools’ paths towards a whole school approach (WSA) to sustainability. Since 2017, these schools have been part of a longitudinal university–school partnership, together with a school owner and a teacher education. The aim of the partnership was to develop the learning institutions’ sustainability education. The data have been analysed through the lens of the ‘WSA flower model’ (Wals & Mathie, 2022). As a result, we found that the four schools took different paths towards a WSA (e.g. they were initiated by enthusiastic teachers or the leader group). Nonetheless, what the schools had in common was that more petals in the WSA flower model were activated as the partnership evolved. Furthermore, the activation of more petals was related to more focus on robust sustainability in the schools. Thus, we conclude that schools may follow different paths towards sustainability, yet the crucial factor seems to be that more than one petal in the WSA flower model needs to be activated to sustain a school’s journey towards a WSA. We also acknowledge the important role the overarching partnership played as a catalyst for both activating the petals and keeping them active.
Critical Events in the Systematic Work at an Organizational Level Towards a Whole School Approach to Sustainability in a Swedish Municipality
Authors: Manni Annika , Knekta Eva , Åberg Erika
Published: June 2024

In this chapter, we report from a 4-year study of the systematic work at an organizational level towards a whole school approach to sustainability. Aiming to extend the individual good practices on Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) to include all schools in the municipality, a process of school development began in 2019, and was studied for 4 years until 2022. Through a narrative approach, we describe the process and its critical events. Different dimensions of the school improvement model devised by Scherp and Scherp are also identified and analysed. The results show that a cyclic process, including not only different actions but also reflections, is important for improvement and, furthermore, that the holistic idea is an important dimension that should guide structures as well as teachers’ professional development towards more successful work with ESD in a whole-school organization.
Weaving Curriculum, Assessment, and Pedagogy: Global Citizenship Experience Lab School’s Whole-School Approach to Sustainability and Global Citizenship Education
Authors: Leite Stephanie
Published: June 2024

This chapter presents a case study of Global Citizenship Experience Lab School in Chicago, USA—a secondary school dedicated to integrating curriculum, assessment, and pedagogy to promote real-world experiential learning. The chapter analyzes the school’s use of scaffolding to introduce students and teachers to a project-based learning model and examines the school’s commitment to global citizenship as an entry point for a whole-school approach to sustainability. Theoretical contributions to the field of education for sustainable development recommend integrated, whole-school approaches to sustainability. However, schools transitioning to such a holistic model face many challenges due to the wider systems in which they are embedded. This case study exemplifies how approaching school redesign as a process of simultaneously rethinking curriculum, assessment, and pedagogy may instill a more relational way of thinking, which is essential if we are to transcend and transform the social and ecological crises of today.
Practicing Climate Action in a K-12 School Using a Whole Institution Approach
Authors: Hargis Kristen
Published: June 2024

Most climate change education and research have focused on instilling individual scientific cognitive clarity instead of learning how to take climate actions together. This study utilized a practice lens to adjust focus away from an individual learner’s knowledge to the climate action practices collectively “carried,” (un)equally shared, and mutually shaped. Shove and colleagues’ conceptualization of practices was used to examine climate action practices at a Kindergarten to Grade 12 school in Canada using a whole institution approach to climate change education. A whole institution approach includes climate change education within and across each domain of Overall Governance, Teaching and Learning, Community Partnerships, and Facilities and Operations. Methods included a sensory walk, observations, interviews, focus groups, document collection, and photography. This chapter describes key themes identified within each of the whole institution domains with implications for a whole institution approach to CCE overall, as well as for each domain.
A Whole School Approach: A Synthesis of Interconnected Policy, Practice, and Research Conceptualisations
Authors: Mathie Rosalie Gwen
Published: June 2024

This explorative study examines the principles, problematics, and prospects of a Whole School Approach (WSA) by comparing 27 distinct, but inter-connected, WSA conceptualisations purposively selected from curriculum frameworks, policy documents, and academic literature. A WSA from an Education for Sustainable Development perspective forms the departure point of the study, conceptualisations from Education for Health and Wellbeing and Global Citizenship Education are then introduced. The chapter concludes that if a WSA is adopted to integrate individual education initiatives, such as reducing bullying, or a whole school climate action, it still runs the risk of further fostering siloed thinking and creating competition over what is prioritised. Instead, an inclusive understanding of the role of a WSA is essential, to ensure synergies between different but interconnected educational innovations are made: By framing a WSA as a reflexive thinking tool forgeneral quality educational change processes,grounded in holistic, systemic, and sustainable perspectives, a WSA has potential to support the integration of continual educational innovation processes and foster a proactive ‘culture of change and reflexivity’ within schools.