bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adoption of Internet of Things: A systematic literature review and future research agenda
Authors: Kumar Anil , Dhingra Sanjay , Falwadiya Himanshu
Published: June 2023

The Internet of Things (IoT) is one of the promising technologies in industry 4.0, which has the potential to provide a myriad of advantages and offer convenience to individuals' daily lives and efficiency to businesses. Due to the enormous potential of the Internet of things, attention towards its adoption is increasing significantly. Despite the undeniable relevance of this field, the current study aims to synthesize the body of knowledge on IoT adoption using systematic literature review (SPAR‐4‐SLR) with the TCCM framework. A total of 101 articles were carefully selected after a thorough search in the Web of Science and Scopus databases. This study has performed an in‐depth descriptive analysis to present the current state of knowledge. The findings of this study revealed that the Technology acceptance model and Unified theory of acceptance and use of technology were the most widely employed theories and models in previous literature. Furthermore, this study has developed an integrative conceptual framework including antecedents, mediators, moderators, and outcomes. Also, the antecedents are classified into four categories based on the Technology‐organization‐environment framework with end user‐specific category. By integrating the existing knowledge, the study identifies significant gaps and offers a fertile ground for further investigation in this field.
Modeling microvoiding kinetics of rare‐earth disilicates in flowing atmospheres containing water vapor
Authors: Wan Julin , Meschter Peter J. , Bertram Brian
Published: June 2023

Rare‐earth disilicate (REDS, RE2Si2O7) layers that may be used as environmental barrier coatings (EBCs) on ceramic matrix composite (CMC) components in high‐temperature stages of turbine engines are subject to microvoiding to form porous rare‐earth monosilicate (REMS, RE2SiO5) layers in flowing atmospheres containing water vapor. A simple microvoiding kinetic model that incorporates both mass transfer of the reaction product Si(OH)4(g) through the external gas phase boundary layer and pore diffusion of Si(OH)4(g) through the microvoided layer has been developed. Model predictions are in good agreement with measured growth rates of microvoided layers under low‐flowrate steam furnace test and high‐flowrate burner rig conditions. Since pore diffusion is generally the rate‐limiting step for EBC microvoiding in turbine engines, furnace testing under conditions of kinetic control by gas phase mass transfer is not generally capable of predicting REDS microvoiding rates under engine conditions. The kinetic model can be extended to incorporate changes in pore size and distribution, cracking of the microvoided layer, and introduction and cracking of an additional REMS topcoat to the system. The model can be used to generate a reasonable prediction of the time required to fully microvoid a REDS EBC layer on a CMC component in the hot gas path of an aircraft engine or stationary gas turbine.
A facile route for the synthesis of high‐entropy transition carbides/borides at low temperatures
Authors: Li Yao , Wang Yu , Zhang Guo‐Hua
Published: June 2023

As the main candidates in the field of ultra‐high temperature ceramics, high entropy carbides/borides (HECs/HEBs) have good oxidation resistance properties, high hardness, as well as excellent thermal and electrical conductivities, which are the focused points of research nowadays. In the current study, (Hf,Ta,Zr,Nb,Mo,Ti)C powders were successfully synthesized by a three‐step process, including the mixing process of raw oxides and carbon black with spaying Fe(NO3)3 solution, carbothermal reduction and subsequent calcium posttreatment. For the preparation of (Hf,Ta,Zr,Nb,Mo,Ti)B2 powders, during the calcium posttreatment process, equal stoichiometric ratio of B4C was added for the purpose of boriding reaction. The relevant X‐ray diffraction and SEM characterizations indicate the successful preparations of face‐centered cubic HECs and hexagonal HEBs. However, slight Mo local segregation was found in the prepared (Hf,Ta,Zr,Nb,Mo,Ti)B2 powders. The iron generated from Fe(NO3)3 promotes the solid solution process between monocarbides during the carbothermal reduction process via the dissolution‐diffusion‐precipitation mechanism. In the calcium posttreatment process, the liquid calcium ensures the boriding reaction take place at a low temperature. In addition, the residual carbon could be combined with calcium to generate CaC2 which is easy to be removed by acid leaching, and meanwhile, the added Fe could also be finally eliminated to produce pure HEC/HEB powders. The current method does not require the long‐time high energy ball milling of raw materials, but only simple and mild mixing is enough. Therefore, such a facile route has a great potential application prospect for industrially preparing high entropy phase powders in a large scale.
Can group‐based strategies increase community resilience? Longitudinal predictors of sustained participation in Covid‐19 mutual aid and community support groups
Authors: Perach Rotem , Fernandes‐Jesus Maria , Miranda Daniel , Mao Guanlan , Ntontis Evangelos , Cocking Chris , McTague Michael , Semlyen Joanna , Drury John
Published: June 2023

Mutual aid groups have been a critical part of the coronavirus disease‐2019 (Covid‐19) response and continue to address the needs of people in their communities. To understand how mutual aid and similar community support groups can be sustained over time, we test the idea that using group‐based strategies initiates psychological trajectories that shape future participation. We conducted a preregistered longitudinal survey among Covid‐19 mutual aid and community support volunteers in the United Kingdom (nWave 1 = 600, May 2021; nWave 2 = 299, July–August 2021) who were registered panelists of an independent research organization. Assessments included measures of group‐based strategies, collective participation predictors, participation experience, and sustained participation. Volunteers engaged in a wide range of support activities including shopping, emotional support provision, and deliveries. Two group‐based strategies—group alliances and group horizontality—longitudinally predicted sustained participation. In addition, sense of community responsibility and burnout were longitudinal predictors of sustained participation. Importantly, predictors of sustained participation diverged for volunteers with different levels of volunteering experience. Our findings highlight group‐based strategies as a potential resource for organizers seeking to sustain participation. Use can be tailored depending on the profiles of individual Covid‐19 mutual aid volunteers. These findings have significance beyond Covid‐19 as they are relevant to sustaining community resilience more generally.
Abrocitinib effect on patient‐reported outcomes in patients with moderate‐to‐severe atopic dermatitis: Results from phase 3 studies, including the long‐term extension JADE EXTEND study
Authors: Reich K. , Silverberg J. I. , Papp K. A. , Deleuran M. , Katoh N. , Strober B. , Beck L. A. , de Bruin‐Weller M. , Werfel T. , Zhang F. , Biswas P. , DiBonaventura M. D. , Chan G. , Farooqui S. A. , Kerkmann U. , Clibborn C.
Published: June 2023

Background

Abrocitinib improved signs and symptoms of moderate‐to‐severe atopic dermatitis (AD) at Weeks 12 and 16 in phase 3 studies, with a manageable safety profile. Patient‐reported outcomes with long‐term abrocitinib treatment were not reported.

Objective

To evaluate patient‐reported outcomes with long‐term abrocitinib treatment in patients with moderate‐to‐severe AD.

Methods

JADE EXTEND (NCT03422822) is an ongoing, phase 3, long‐term extension study that enrolled patients from previous abrocitinib AD trials. This analysis includes patients from the phase 3 trials JADE MONO‐1 (NCT03349060), JADE MONO‐2 (NCT03575871) and JADE COMPARE (NCT03720470) who completed the full treatment period of placebo or abrocitinib (200 or 100 mg once daily) and subsequently entered JADE EXTEND and were randomised to receive once‐daily abrocitinib 200 or 100 mg. Patient‐reported endpoints to Week 48 included the proportion of patients who achieved Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) scores of 0/1 (no effect of AD on quality of life [QoL]) and a ≥4‐point improvement in Patient‐Oriented Eczema Measure (POEM) score (clinically meaningful improvement). Data cut‐off: April 22, 2020.

Results

Baseline DLQI mean scores were 15.4 and 15.3 in the abrocitinib 200‐ and 100‐mg groups, respectively, which corresponded to a ‘very large effect’ on QoL; at Week 48, mean DLQI scores were lower with abrocitinib 200 mg (4.6; ‘small effect’ on QoL) and abrocitinib 100 mg (5.9; ‘moderate effect’ on QoL). Baseline POEM mean scores were 20.4 and 20.5 in the abrocitinib 200‐ and 100‐mg groups, respectively; at Week 48, mean POEM scores were 8.2 and 11.0. Week 48 patient‐reported responses with abrocitinib 200 mg and abrocitinib 100 mg were 44% and 34% for DLQI 0/1, and 90% and 77% for a ≥4‐point reduction in POEM score.

Conclusion

In patients with moderate‐to‐severe AD, long‐term abrocitinib treatment resulted in clinically meaningful improvement in patient‐reported symptoms of AD, including QoL.
Polymorphisms in corticotrophin‐releasing hormone–proopiomalanocortin (CRH–POMC) system genes: Neuroimmune contributions to psoriasis disease
Authors: Galimova Elvira , Rätsep Ranno , Traks Tanel , Chernov Alexandr , Gaysina Darya , Kingo Külli , Kõks Sulev
Published: June 2023

Background

Skin is a target organ and source of the corticotropin‐releasing hormone–proopiomelanocortin (CRH‐POMC) system, operating as a coordinator and executor of responses to stress. Environmental stress exacerbates and triggers inflammatory skin diseases through modifying the cellular components of the immune system supporting the importance of CRH‐POMC system in the pathogenesis of psoriasis. The aim of this study was to analyse the association of CRH‐POMC polymorphisms with psoriasis and evaluate transcript expression of lesional psoriatic and normal skin in RNA‐seq data.

Methods

Samples of 104 patients with psoriasis and 174 healthy controls were genotyped for 42 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of CRH‐POMC using Applied Biosystems SNPlex™ method. The transcript quantification was performed using Salmon software v1.3.0.

Results

This study demonstrated the associations between melanocortin 1 receptor (MC1R) polymorphisms rs2228479, rs3212369, dopachrome tautomerase (DCT) polymorphisms rs7987802, rs2031526, rs9524501 and psoriasis in the Tatar population. Very strong association was evident for the SNP rs7987802 in the DCT gene (pc = 5.95е‐006) in psoriasis patients. Additionally, the haplotype analysis provided AT DCT (rs7992630 and rs7987802) and AGA MC1R (rs3212358, 2228479 and 885479) haplotypes significantly associated (pc ˂ 0.05) with psoriasis in the Tatar population, supporting the involvement of DCT and MC1R to the psoriasis susceptibility. Moreover, MC1R‐203 and DCT‐201 expression levels were decreased in psoriasis lesional skin compared with healthy control skin.

Conclusions

This study is the first to identify genetic variants of the MC1R and DCT genes significantly associated with psoriasis in Tatar population. Our results support potential roles of CRH‐POMC system genes and DCT in the pathogenesis of psoriasis.
A critical appraisal and recommendation synthesis of delirium clinical practice guidelines relevant to the care of older adults in the emergency department: An umbrella review
Authors: Filiatreault Sarah , Grimshaw Jeremy M. , Kreindler Sara A. , Chochinov Alecs , Linton Janice , Chatterjee Rashmita , Azeez Rilwan , Doupe Malcolm B.
Published: June 2023

Rationale

Older adults are at high risk of developing delirium in the emergency department (ED); however, it is often missed or undertreated. Improving ED delirium care is challenging in part due to a lack of standards to guide best practice. Clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) translate evidence into recommendations to improve practice.

Aim

To critically appraise and synthesize CPG recommendations for delirium care relevant to older ED patients.

Methods

We conducted an umbrella review to retrieve relevant CPGs. Quality of the CPGs and their recommendations were critically appraised using the Appraisal of Guidelines, Research, and Evaluation (AGREE)‐II; and Appraisal of Guidelines Research and Evaluation—Recommendations Excellence (AGREE‐REX) instruments. A threshold of 70% or greater in the AGREE‐II Rigour of Development domain was used to define high‐quality CPGs. Delirium recommendations from CPGs meeting this threshold were included in the synthesis and narrative analysis.

Results

AGREE‐II Rigour of Development scores ranged from 37% to 83%, with 5 of 10 CPGs meeting the predefined threshold. AGREE‐REX overall calculated scores ranged from 44% to 80%. Recommendations were grouped into screening, diagnosis, risk reduction, and management. Although none of the included CPGs were ED‐specific, many recommendations incorporated evidence from this setting. There was agreement that screening for nonmodifiable risk factors is important to define high‐risk populations, and those at risk should be screened for delirium. The ‘4A's Test’ was the recommended tool to use in the ED specifically. Multicomponent strategies were recommended for delirium risk reduction, and for its management if it occurs. The only area of disagreement was for the short‐term use of antipsychotic medication in urgent situations.

Conclusion

This is the first known review of delirium CPGs including a critical appraisal and synthesis of recommendations. Researchers and policymakers can use this synthesis to inform future improvement efforts and research in the ED.

Registration

This study has been registered in the Open Science Framework registries: https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/TG7S6OSF.IO/TG7S6.
The 3D emergence profile on implant‐supported restorations: A method for evaluating restorative angles
Authors: Mancini Leonardo , Thoma Daniel S. , Marchetti Enrico , Jung Ronald Ernst , Strauss Franz J.
Published: June 2023

Statement of Problem

Emerging evidence indicates that the emergence profile and subsequent restorative angle play a crucial role in clinical outcomes and can potentially affect the development and progression of peri‐implant diseases. However, the traditional evaluation of the emergence profile and angle has been limited to mesial and distal sites using periapical x‐rays, without considering the buccal sites.

Purpose

To describe a novel 3D method to estimate the emergence profile and restorative angles around single implant‐supported crowns including buccal sites.

Materials and Methods

A total of 30 implant‐supported crowns (11 molars, 8 premolars, 8 central incisors and 1 canine) were extra‐orally scanned using an intraoral scanner and the STL files produced were imported into a 3D software. The crown/abutment interface of each crown was delineated, and apico‐coronal lines were automatically drawn following the shape of the crown. Three reference points were defined on the apico‐coronal lines at the transition edge of the biological (BC) and the esthetic zone (EC) and the resulting angles were then calculated. The reliability of the measurements (2D and 3D) were assessed using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC).

Results

In anterior restorations, the mean angle of the esthetic zone amounted to 162 ± 14° at mesial sites, to 140 ± 10° at buccal sites and to 163 ± 11° at distal sites. The corresponding angles at the biological zones, amounted to 155 ± 13° at mesial sites, 139 ± 15° at buccal sites and 157 ± 5° at distal sites. In posterior restorations, the mean angle of the esthetic zone amounted to 162 ± 12° at mesial sites, to 157 ± 13 at buccal sites and to 162 ± 11 at distal sites. The corresponding angles at the biological zone, amounted to 158 ± 8 at mesial sites, 150 ± 15° at buccal sites and 156 ± 10 at distal sites. The ICC for all measurements ranged between 0.77 and 0.99 indicating a good intra‐examiner reliability.

Conclusion

Within the limitations of the present study, the 3D analysis seems to be a reliable and applicable method for the quantitative evaluation of the emergence profile in daily practice. Future randomized clinical trials are needed to assess whether a 3D analysis with the ensuing the emergence profile serves as a predictor for clinical outcomes.

Clinical Significance

The development and implementation of a 3D workflow will provide technicians and dentists with the ability to assess the restorative angle of implant‐supported restorations during the provisional phase and the final restoration. This approach may help achieve an aesthetically pleasing restoration while minimizing potential clinical complications.
Racism and incarcerated African American adolescents
Authors: Tadros Eman
Published: June 2023

In the United States, approximately 34% to 36% of juveniles (those under age 17) processed in the court system in 2018 were Black (Abrams et al., 2021). This article examines the dynamics of race with incarcerated Black adolescents. Black adolescents who have been or are incarcerated face similar systemic challenges as any other adolescent and must also be mindful of re‐entry into their communities. These challenges are multifaceted and dually complex when an adolescent is both incarcerated and Black. A literary review is provided then intersections of the topics are discussed to conceptualize and provide practical applications. Clinical implications for therapists are offered to practitioners working in the juvenile justice system.
Learning capacity in early‐stage Alzheimer's disease: The role of feedback during learning on memory performance
Authors: Scheper Inge , Brazil Inti A. , Claassen Jurgen A. H. R. , Bertens Dirk , Geurts Sofie , Kessels Roy P. C.
Published: June 2023

Alzheimer's disease is characterized by a decline in episodic memory and executive functioning, hampering learning ability. Insight into outcome‐based learning capacity may be relevant for optimizing the learning potential of these patients. To date, mixed results have been found in studies in which cognitively impaired participants have to learn based on positive and negative outcomes. In this study, we investigated the role of negative and positive feedback on memory performance and participants' ability to adjust their behaviour accordingly in a sample of 23 early‐stage AD patients and 23 matched healthy controls. We administered a novel computerized object‐location memory task, in which participants were instructed to learn and memorize the locations of different everyday objects following errorless learning (EL) and trial‐and‐error learning (TEL). A separate probabilistic TEL task was employed in which participants had to learn how to adjust their behaviour based on positive and negative feedback. EL had a beneficial general effect on memory performance for object locations. However, this effect was not larger in early‐stage AD patients compared to controls and error frequency during acquisition of object locations was unrelated to later recall performance. No group differences were found on the probabilistic learning task with respect to learning performance over time and based on positive and negative feedback. Although the error monitoring system seems intact in patients with early‐stage AD, errors during learning are likely acting as a source of interference causing difficulty in storage or retrieval of object locations.
Vascular uses of LP1064 applicator on the harmony XL pro device
Authors: Nguyen Christopher N. , Gold Michael H.
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Vascular lesions of the lower extremities and face, such as varicose veins and telangiectasias, are a common dilemma for the dermatologist. In recent years, laser therapy has emerged as a viable treatment option for these vascular anomalies.

Materials and Methods

Although there are several types of lasers, the 1064‐nm Nd:YAG in particular is popularly selected for its safety profile and versatility. The longer 1064 nm wavelength penetrates deeper into the skin while also being less absorbed by hemoglobin and melanin, thus resulting in minimized damage to surrounding structures and less pigmentation changes. The new LP1064 applicator on the Harmony XL Pro Device is one such laser.

Results

Numerous publications have corroborated the efficacy of 1064 nm Nd:YAG lasers. These studies cite at least over 75% of patients experiencing significant improvement in common vascular lesions. Efficacy of this laser is also seen for other vascular lesions such as port wine stains, hemangiomas, venous lakes, poikiloderma of Civatte, and angiokeratomas. Overall, the reported studies also show a low incidence of adverse events.

Conclusion

The 1064 nm Nd:YAG laser, such as the Harmony LP1064 applicator, is a safe and effective tool to treat vein anomalies of the face and leg. Although commonly used for vein ablation, it has demonstrated a robust response in other indications as well.
Rosline promotes p21 expression to inhibit ovarian cancer cell proliferation via p53‐independent pathway
Authors: Zhao Ting , Xiao Xiao , Li Lingchuan , Wu Xiaomei , Yuan Tao
Published: June 2023

Aim

To investigate the effect of benzothiazole derivatives (Rosline) on ovarian cancer and the potential mechanism.

Methods

Ovarian cancer tissues were collected clinically and immunohistochemistry was used to detect the expression of p53 and p21. Ovarian cancer cells were exposed to 0, 2.5, 5, 10 μmol/L Rosline for 24 h. 100 nmol/L Pifithrin‐α pre‐incubation was used to inhibit the transcriptional activity of p53. CCK‐8 and BrdU assays were used to detect the effects of different concentrations of rosline on the proliferation and cell cycle of OVCAR420 and SKOV3 cells. Flow cytometry assay was used to detect cell cycle. The transcriptional and translational expression of p21 and p53 were detected by RT‐qPCR and Western blot.

Results

p21 was expressed in ovarian cancer tissues without p53 expression. Rosline inhibits the proliferation of ovarian cancer cells and blocks the cell cycle progression. Meanwhile, Rosline promotes p21 expression in ovarian cancer cells at both mRNA and protein levels, but with no significant effect on p53 expression. Besides, Rosline promotes p21 expression, inhibits cell proliferation, and blocks the cell cycle via the p53‐independent pathway.

Conclusion

Rosline promoted p21 expression thereby inhibiting cell proliferation and blocks the cell cycle via p53‐independent pathway.
Hyperthermia maintains death receptor expression and promotes TRAIL‐induced apoptosis
Authors: Ohara Go , Okabe Kazuto , Toyama Naoto , Ohta Yuya , Xinman Song , Ichimura Norihisa , Sato Kotaro , Urata Yusuke , Hibi Hideharu
Published: June 2023

Background

Tumor necrosis factor‐related apoptosis‐inducing ligand activates apoptotic pathways and could potentially be used in anticancer treatments. However, oral squamous cell carcinoma cells are known to be resistant to tumor necrosis factor‐related apoptosis‐inducing ligand‐induced cell death. It has been previously reported that hyperthermia upregulates tumor necrosis factor‐related apoptosis‐inducing ligand‐induced apoptosis in other cancers. As such, we evaluated whether hyperthermia upregulates tumor necrosis factor‐related apoptosis‐inducing ligand‐mediated apoptosis in a tumor necrosis factor‐related apoptosis‐inducing ligand‐resistant oral squamous cell carcinoma cell line.

Methods

The oral squamous cell carcinoma cell line HSC3 was cultured and divided into hyperthermia and control groups. We investigated the antitumor effects of recombinant human tumor necrosis factor‐related apoptosis‐inducing ligand using cell proliferation and apoptosis assays. Additionally, we measured death receptor 4 and 5 levels, and determined death receptor ubiquitination status, as well as E3 ubiquitin ligase targeting of death receptor in both hyperthermia and control groups before recombinant human tumor necrosis factor‐related apoptosis‐inducing ligand administration.

Results

Treatment with recombinant human tumor necrosis factor‐related apoptosis‐inducing ligand produced greater inhibitory effects in the hyperthermia group than in the control group. Moreover, death receptor protein expression in the hyperthermia group was upregulated on the cell surface (and overall), although death receptor mRNA was downregulated. The half‐life of death receptor was several hours longer in the hyperthermia group; concomitantly, E3 ubiquitin ligase expression and death receptor ubiquitination were downregulated in this group.

Conclusion

Our findings suggested that hyperthermia enhances apoptotic signaling by tumor necrosis factor‐related apoptosis‐inducing ligand via the suppression of death receptor ubiquitination, which upregulates death receptor expression. These data suggest that the combination of hyperthermia and tumor necrosis factor‐related apoptosis‐inducing ligand has implications in developing a novel treatment strategy for oral squamous cell carcinoma.
Adherence to Recess Guidelines in the United States Using Nationally Representative Data: Implications for Future Surveillance Efforts
Authors: Clevenger Kimberly A. , Dunton Genevieve F. , Katzmarzyk Peter T. , Pfeiffer Karin A. , Berrigan David
Published: June 2023

BACKGROUND

National adherence to the recess recommendations of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has not been comprehensively studied in the United States.

METHODS

Data from 6 nationally representative data sets over the last decade (Classification of Laws Associated with School Students, Early Childhood Longitudinal Study, National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, National Youth Fitness Survey, School Health Policies and Practices Survey, and the School Nutrition and Meal Cost Study) provided estimates for adherence to CDC recess guidelines.

RESULTS

While approximately 65‐80% of elementary school‐children receive the recommended 20+ minutes of daily recess according to parent‐, principal‐, and school‐report, adherence declines by sixth grade, and little information is available for middle/high school students. Adherence to playground safety was high (90%), but adherence to recommendations about recess before lunch (<50%), withholding recess as punishment (∼50%), and training recess staff (<50%) were lower.

CONCLUSIONS

School policy and practice should align with CDC recommendations, with the aim of providing sufficient quality recess to all youth, K‐12th grade. Comprehensive, on‐going national surveillance of multiple recess domains is needed to inform policy and ensure equitable provision of recess.
Testing for symmetric correlation matrices with applications to factor models
Authors: Hsu Nan‐Jung , Sim Lai Heng , Tsay Ruey S.
Published: June 2023

Factor models have been widely used in recent years to model high‐dimensional spatio‐temporal data. However, the validity of employing factor models in a specific application has received less attention. This article proposes test statistics for testing the symmetry in cross‐correlation matrices of a high‐dimensional stochastic process implied by exact factor models. A rejection of symmetry indicates that the use of an exact factor model is questionable. Both simulations and real examples are used to demonstrate the applications and to study the finite‐sample performance of the proposed test statistics. Empirical results show that the proposed test statistics are effective in identifying cases where exact factor models are not appropriate, providing valuable guidance for choosing factor models in a high‐dimensional setting.
Visual assessment and rheological characterization of shape retention of products on a surface
Authors: Mintel Mark , Lee Jonghun , Teoman Baran , Potanin Andrei
Published: June 2023

A device to measure the height loss of a sample extruded from a syringe on a surface is described thus emulating toothpaste extrusion from a tube with the goal to predict shape retention of the extruded ribbon. Correlations with rheological tests are considered with a special focus on experiments more likely to be implementable in an industrial environment. In agreement with previous studies, the instantaneous viscosity maximum measured in a stress ramp test is a good predictor of ribbon height loss. Up‐ and down‐shear flow curves of the thixotropic loop were fitted with a generalized Casson equation and the correlations of the fitting parameters with the height loss were also considered. Yield stress extracted from the up‐shear flow curve as well as the shape of the curve is found to define the ribbon height loss as well as the degree of thixotropy which may be quantified by the width of the loop or simply as the ratio of viscosities at low shear rate.
Antibiotics reduce Pocillopora coral‐associated bacteria diversity, decrease holobiont oxygen consumption and activate immune gene expression
Authors: Connelly Michael T. , Snyder Grace , Palacio‐Castro Ana M. , Gillette Phillip R. , Baker Andrew C. , Traylor‐Knowles Nikki
Published: June 2023

Corals are important models for understanding invertebrate host–microbe interactions; however, to fully discern mechanisms involved in these relationships, experimental approaches for manipulating coral–bacteria associations are needed. Coral‐associated bacteria affect holobiont health via nutrient cycling, metabolic exchanges and pathogen exclusion, yet it is not fully understood how bacterial community shifts affect holobiont health and physiology. In this study, a combination of antibiotics (ampicillin, streptomycin and ciprofloxacin) was used to disrupt the bacterial communities of 14 colonies of the reef framework‐building corals Pocillopora meandrina and P. verrucosa, originally collected from Panama and hosting diverse algal symbionts (family Symbiodiniaceae). Symbiodiniaceae photochemical efficiencies and holobiont oxygen consumption (as proxies for coral health) were measured throughout a 5‐day exposure. Antibiotics altered bacterial community composition and reduced alpha and beta diversity, however, several bacteria persisted, leading to the hypothesis that these bacteria are either antibiotics resistant or occupy internal niches that are shielded from antibiotics. While antibiotics did not affect Symbiodiniaceae photochemical efficiency, antibiotics‐treated corals had lower oxygen consumption rates. RNAseq revealed that antibiotics increased expression of Pocillopora immunity and stress response genes at the expense of cellular maintenance and metabolism functions. Together, these results reveal that antibiotic disruption of corals' native bacteria negatively impacts holobiont health by decreasing oxygen consumption and activating host immunity without directly impairing Symbiodiniaceae photosynthesis, underscoring the critical role of coral‐associated bacteria in holobiont health. They also provide a baseline for future experiments that manipulate Pocillopora corals' symbioses by first reducing the diversity and complexity of coral‐associated bacteria.
Macroeconomic challenges of scaling up aid to West African Economic and Monetary Union
Authors: Dedehouanou Sessinou Erick Abel , Kane Abou
Published: June 2023

The increase in Official Development Assistance for which the international community has mobilised should enable developing countries such as those of the West African Economic and Monetary Union to have the resources to achieve sustainable development goals and, more recently, to deal with the Coronavirus crisis. But this ‘Big Push’ of aid presents several macroeconomic challenges that this paper simulates using a dynamic stochastic general equilibrium model. The results showed that an increase in aid to West African Economic and Monetary Union countries translates into an increase in output and labour input. On the other hand, increased aid leads to an appreciation of the real exchange rate and a widening of the budget deficit.
Histopathological characterisation of trunk‐dominant canine pemphigus foliaceus, and comparison with classic facial and insecticide‐triggered forms
Authors: Gedon Natalie Katharina Yvonne , Bizikova Petra , Olivry Thierry , Mendoza‐Kuznetsova Ekaterina , Oberkirchner Ursula , Robertson James Benjamin , Linder Keith Emerson
Published: June 2023

Background

While the clinical features were described recently, the histopathological characterisation of trunk‐dominant canine pemphigus foliaceus (PF) is lacking, and whether it differs from classic facial or insecticide‐triggered PF is unknown.

Hypothesis/Objectives

This study describes the histopathological findings of trunk‐dominant PF, and compares the results to classic facial and insecticide‐triggered PF.

Animals

Skin biopsies from 103 dogs with clinically characterised trunk‐dominant (n = 33), classic facial (n = 26) and insecticide‐triggered PF (n = 44) were included.

Materials and Methods

Histological sections, randomised and blinded, were scored for over 50 morphological parameters of pustules, epidermis, dermis, adnexa and crusts. Intact pustule area and width were measured by digital microscopy.

Results

In trunk‐dominant PF, 77 intact pustules were predominantly subcorneal (0.0019–1.940 mm2 area, 0.0470–4.2532 mm wide), and contained from one to over 100 acantholytic keratinocytes. Pustules had boat acantholytic cells, corneocytes, perinuclear eosinophilic rings, neutrophil rosettes, acantholytic cell necrosis, rafts, cling‐ons and/or eosinophils. Peripustular epidermal spongiosis, necrosis and lymphocyte exocytosis occurred, as did follicular pustules. Mixed dermal inflammation often contained eosinophils. Trunk‐dominant PF did not differ from the other PF groups except for few parameters, such as having fewer rafts (p = 0.003). Additional autoimmune inflammatory patterns occurred in all PF groups.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

Trunk‐dominant PF and other canine PF variants are histologically similar, which indicates shared pathomechanisms. The identification of common boat acantholytic cells and corneocyte separation has implications for the mechanisms of acantholysis. The diversity of histopathological and polyautoimmunity features support complicated immune mechanisms. Finally, results indicate that diagnostic biopsies cannot differentiate between these PF variants in dogs.
In vitro antibacterial efficacy of autologous conditioned plasma and amniotic membrane eye drops
Authors: Yates Kelsey M. , Stilwell Natalie K. , Fontenot Robin L. , Betbeze Caroline M.
Published: June 2023

Objective

To determine the in vitro antibacterial efficacy of equine and canine autologous conditioned plasma (ACP) and amniotic membrane extract eye drops (AMEED) against aerobic bacteria common to the corneal surface.

Procedures

Canine (n = 4) and equine (n = 4) anticoagulated whole blood samples were sterilely collected, pooled for each species, and processed using the Arthrex ACP® Double‐Syringe System. Platelet counts were performed on ACP and pooled blood. AMEED were obtained from a commercial source. An electronic medical records search (2013–2022) identified aerobic bacteria cultured from canine and equine corneal ulcers at Mississippi State University College of Veterinary Medicine (MSU‐CVM). Ten commonly isolated bacteria for each species were collected from cultures submitted to the MSU‐CVM Microbiology Diagnostic Service and frozen at −80°C. The Kirby‐Bauer disk diffusion method was used to determine the sensitivities of these isolates to ACP and AMEED. Bacterial isolates were plated onto Mueller‐Hinton +5% sheep blood agar and blank sterile discs saturated with 20 μL of ACP or AMEED were tested in duplicate. Imipenem discs served as positive controls and blank discs as negative controls. Zones of inhibition were measured at 18 h.

Results

ACP platelet counts were 1.06 and 1.65 times higher than blood for equine and canine samples, respectively. Growth of a multi‐drug resistant Enterococcus faecalis was partially inhibited by canine and equine ACP. AMEED did not inhibit growth of any examined bacteria.

Conclusions

Canine and equine ACP partially inhibited E. faecalis growth in vitro. Further studies using varying concentrations of ACP against bacterial isolates from corneal ulcers are warranted.
A review of technologies for the removal of sulfate from drinking water
Authors: Quintana‐Baquedano Ariel Antonio , Sanchez‐Salas Jose Luis , Flores‐Cervantes Deborah Xanat
Published: June 2023

Because of the current water crisis worldwide, it is of great importance to find alternative sources of drinking water, such as sulfur water. This review analyses laboratory, pilot and industrial‐scale technologies available for sulfate removal from water produced for human consumption, from naturally occurring sulfur water and that resulting from human activities. Most of them exceed 90% removal efficiencies. However, the concentrations treated in each study were different; some technologies evaluate concentrations below recommended limits (250 mg L−1), while others evaluate much higher concentrations but require previous treatments. The technologies with higher energy requirements such as reverse osmosis and ion exchange have better removal efficiencies but require larger initial investments and have higher operational costs. Biological treatments, on the other hand, with lower energy and material requirements, are less expensive but require long retention times and depend on the season of the year and/or environmental conditions. Lastly, adsorption removal technologies fall in the middle, especially for energy requirements and operational costs and retention times. This review shows that although there are a variety of sulfate removal technologies suitable for use, there is still room for a novel methodology that removes sulfates from a wider range of concentrations more economically, more effectively and in less time than what is currently available.
Development and Application of a Predictive Model for Estimating Refinery Shutdown Duration and Resilience Impacts Due to Hurricane Hazards
Authors: Capshaw Kendall M. , Padgett Jamie E.
Published: June 2023

U.S. Gulf Coast refineries account for over half of the total refining capacity of the nation. However, less than a third of products refined in this region are used to supply local markets. Due to the highly centralized nature of the U.S. petroleum distribution network, disruptions affecting Gulf Coast refineries can have widespread impacts. The objective of this study is to develop a sufficient predictive model for the likelihood and expected duration of refinery shutdowns under hurricane hazards. Such models are currently lacking in the literature yet essential for risk modeling of the cascading consequences of refinery shutdown ranging from resilience analyses of petroleum networks to potential health effects on surrounding communities tied to startup and shutdown activities. A database of empirical refinery downtime and storm hazards data is developed, and statistical analyses are conducted to explore the relationship between refinery and storm characteristics and shutdown duration. The proposed method with the highest predictive accuracy is found to be a model comprised of a logistic regression binary classification component related to refinery shutdown potential and a Poisson distribution generalized linear model component related to downtime duration determination. To illustrate the utility of the newly developed model, a case study is conducted exploring the impact of two storms affecting the Houston Ship Channel and surrounding region. Both the regional refining resilience as well as the distribution network resilience are quantified, including uncertainty propagation. Such analyses reveal local community to nationwide impacts of refining disruptions and can support resilience enhancement decisions.
Electrical Response Estimation of Vibratory Energy Harvesters via Hilbert Transform Based Stochastic Averaging
Authors: dos Santos Ketson R. M.
Published: June 2023

Converting mechanical vibrations into electrical power with vibratory energy harvesters can ensure the portability, efficiency, and sustainability of electronic devices and batteries. Vibratory energy harvesters are typically modeled as nonlinear oscillators subject to random excitation, and their design requires a complete characterization of their probabilistic responses. However, simulation techniques such as Monte Carlo are computationally prohibitive when the accurate estimation of the response probability distribution is needed. Alternatively, approximate methods such as stochastic averaging can estimate the probabilistic response of such systems at a reduced computational cost. In this paper, the Hilbert transform based stochastic averaging is used to model the output voltage amplitude as a Markovian stochastic process with dynamics governed by a stochastic differential equation with nonlinear drift and diffusion terms. Moreover, the voltage amplitude dependent damping and stiffness terms are determined via an appropriate equivalent linearization, and the stationary probability distribution of the output voltage amplitude is obtained analytically by solving the corresponding Fokker–Plank equation. Two examples are used to demonstrate the accuracy of the obtained analytical probability distributions via comparisons with Monte Carlo simulation data.
Investigation of the transition of amorphous Ti-thiolate prepared by hybrid atomic layer deposition/molecular layer deposition into titanium disulfide ultrathin film
Authors: Abi Younes Petros , Yadav Ashok-Kumar , Zhukush Medet , Le Van-Hoan , Roussel Hervé , Richard Marie-Ingrid , Camp Clément , Szeto Kai , Ciatto Gianluca , Schneider Nathanaelle , Quadrelli Elsje Alessandra , Renevier Hubert , Gauthier Nicolas
Published: June 2023

Amorphous organic-inorganic hybrid thin films (Ti-thiolate) deposited on thermal SiO2 substrate by atomic layer deposition/molecular layer deposition are converted into textured titanium disulfide (TiS2) ultrathin films, of thickness down to 5.5 nm, upon annealing under Ar/H2 (5%) atmosphere at mild temperature (300°C). Two annealing strategies were investigated by in situ synchrotron x-ray fluorescence, allowing us to master the mineralization of the amorphous Ti-thiolate into titanium disulfide. Stoichiometry and crystallinity of the thin films were characterized by x-ray photoelectron spectroscopies, Raman scattering, and x-ray absorption at the S K-edge. Lamellar structure parallel to the substrate surface was observed by transmission electron microscopy.
Experimental research on airflow efficiency of dynamic gas lock for extreme ultraviolet lithography
Authors: Wang Kuibo , Gao Zixiang , Luo Yan , Wu Xiaobin
Published: June 2023

Dynamic gas lock (DGL) is one of the central components of contamination control for extreme ultraviolet lithography, and airflow efficiency is a key parameter. In this paper, the principle of the DGL and airflow efficiency is described at first, then a set of experiments is carried out on a self-developed DGL experimental device. The results of the experiment show that the pressures of the project optics box and the wafer chamber do not influence the airflow efficiency of DGL. In addition, the airflow efficiency increases slowly with the total airflow, and the gradient gradually diminishes. With an increase in the total airflow from 1 to 3 Pa m3/s, the argon efficiency increases from 0.247 to 0.260, while the nitrogen efficiency increases from 0.251 to 0.264, which shows that the efficiency of argon is slightly smaller than that of nitrogen under the same conditions. Within the interesting range of argon gas flow, the maximum difference between theory and experiment is less than 6%, which is acceptable in engineering. The theoretical calculation method in this paper can be used to evaluate the airflow efficiency for engineering applications. It is concluded that the airflow efficiency of the DGL is almost independent of the pressures of the upper and lower sides. However, the total airflow and the gas species will change the airflow efficiency.
Near-surface damage and mixing in Si-Cl2-Ar atomic layer etching processes: Insights from molecular dynamics simulations
Authors: Vella Joseph R. , Graves David B.
Published: June 2023

Silicon-chlorine-argon (Si-Cl2-Ar) atomic layer etching (ALE) is simulated using classical molecular dynamics (MD). The simulations provide a detailed view into the near-surface region during ALE processing. Bombardment of Ar+ ions creates a mixed amorphous region that significantly differs from the picture of ideal ALE. There is also a significant change in the Si etch yield and the etch product distribution as a function of Ar+ ion fluence. The Si etch yield is the highest at the beginning of the bombardment step but eventually decays to the physical sputtering yield. Atomic Cl and silicon chlorides are major etch products at the start of an ion bombardment step, but quickly decay. Atomic Si yields remain relatively constant as a function of Ar+ ion fluence. A new schematic of Si-Cl2-Ar ALE is presented in order to emphasize the complex behavior observed in MD simulations.
A younger and protracted emplacement of the Ontong Java Plateau
Authors: Davidson Peter C. , Koppers Anthony A. P. , Sano Takashi , Hanyu Takeshi
Published: June 2023

The submarine volcanic emplacement of the Ontong Java Plateau (OJP) is the suggested cause of Ocean Anoxic Event 1a (OAE 1a). However, no precise timing and duration exists for the formation of OJP, and its connection to OAE1a relies mainly on proxies in the sedimentary record. We provide high-precision
40
Ar/
39
Ar data from OJP drill and dredge sites that considerably improve OJP’s eruptive history. The ages determined from this work are as much as 10 million years younger than previous dates and indicate a protracted formation over at least 6 million years. OJP now appears too young to have caused OAE1a, but we suggest that it may have had a role in the later OAE1b. The protracted eruptive sequence has implications for the emplacement dynamics of OJP and other large igneous provinces.
Leaves and sporangia developed in rare non-Fibonacci spirals in early leafy plants
Authors: Turner Holly-Anne , Humpage Matthew , Kerp Hans , Hetherington Alexander J.
Published: June 2023

Lateral plant organs, including leaves and reproductive structures, are arranged on stems in distinct patterns termed phyllotaxis. Most extant plants exhibit phyllotactic patterns that are mathematically described by the Fibonacci series. However, it remains unclear what lateral organ arrangements were present in early leafy plants. To investigate this, we quantified phyllotaxis in fossils of the Early Devonian lycopod
Asteroxylon mackiei
. We report diverse phyllotaxis in leaves, including whorls and spirals. Spirals were all n:(n+1) non-Fibonacci types. We also show that leaves and reproductive structures occurred in the same phyllotactic series, indicating developmental similarities between the organs. Our findings shed light on the long-standing debate about leaf origins and demonstrate the antiquity of non-Fibonacci spirals in plants.
The body’s predictive processor
The Experience Machine: How Our Minds Predict and Shape Reality
Andy Clark
Pantheon, 2023. 304 pp.
Authors: Drayson Zoe
Published: June 2023

Brains begin with complete models of the world and work backward to anticipate sensory data, argues a philosopher
NIH’s data policy for foreign partners stirs outcry
Authors: Kaiser Jocelyn
Published: June 2023

Some scientists worry reporting requirement is burdensome—and even insulting
The C
2
H
2
-Type Transcription Factor ZfpA, Coordinately with CrzA, Affects Azole Susceptibility by Regulating the Multidrug Transporter Gene
atrF
in Aspergillus fumigatus
Authors: Li Yeqi , Dai Mengyao , Lu Ling , Zhang Yuanwei
Published: June 2023

Conserved across all kingdoms of life, ABC transporters comprise one of the largest protein families. They are associated with multidrug resistance, affecting aspects such as resistance to antimicrobials or anticancer drugs.