bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
7 P-Tau and Education as Moderators of the Relation between APOE4 and Memory Performance in Older Adults with Varying Cognitive Status
Authors: Jean Kharine , Gogniat Marissa , Robinson Talia , Stephen Miller L.
Published: December 2023

Objective:

White matter microstructure (WMM) potentially mediates the relation between APOE4 and memory performance. This study’s purpose was to understand whether p-tau effects this mediation model and whether education level differentially impacts the relations between these genetic and biological biomarkers’ influence on memory.

Participants and Methods:

Participants included 161 older adults (M=74 years, 40.4% female, 92% White, 74 e4 non-carriers, 87 e4 carriers) with subjective and objective cognitive impairment from the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI). A composite memory score created by ADNI was used as the outcome variable. Mean fractional anisotropy (FA) and radial diffusivity (RD) values of white matter tracts within regions of interest (i.e., fornix (FX), hippocampal cingulum (CGH)) were individually used as the measures of WMM. A moderated mediation was run to examine whether p-tau was a moderator of the mediation between APOE4, white matter microstructure, and memory. An exploratory dual moderated mediation analysis examined education as a moderator of the moderated mediation. Indirect effects were tested using bootstrapping procedures.

Results:

In the FA moderated mediation model, APOE4 was significantly related to FA of the fornix and memory performance. FA of the CGH and FX were also related to memory performance. With FA of the fornix as the mediator, the conditional indirect effect was not significant (95% CI[-.0009, .0070]). There was a trend suggesting at low (95% CI[-.2421, -.0140]) and average (95% CI[-.1658, -.0083]) levels of p-tau, FA of the fornix was a significant mediator but was non-significant at high levels of p-tau (95% CI [-.1322, .0341]). The RD moderated mediation model was non-significant. The FA and RD exploratory dual moderated mediation models were non-significant. However, the APOE4 x p-tau interaction with FA of the fornix as the mediator suggested a trend. At low levels of p-tau, increased education was related to a significant moderated mediation.

Conclusions:

Results suggest that FA of the fornix is a significant mediator between the relation of APOE4 and memory, and this may be dependent upon p-tau levels. When p-tau burden load was high, the path by which APOE4 impacts memory performance was not through white matter microstructure degradation. Additionally, the potential buffering effects of education may be most robust at lower levels of p-tau burden.
35 The Effect of Diagnostic Method on Racial Disparities in Mild Cognitive Impairment and Dementia Diagnosis Using the NACC Database.
Authors: Nosker Jennifer L , Aita Stephen L , Borgogna Nicholas C , Jimenez Tina , Walker Keenan A , Rhoads Tasha , Eloi Janelle M , Resch Zachary J , Del Bene Victor A
Published: December 2023

Objective:

Population studies have shown that Black individuals are at higher risk for MCI and dementia than White individuals but are more likely to be underdiagnosed or misdiagnosed. Although multiple contributory factors have been identified in relation to neurocognitive diagnostic disparities among persons of color, few studies have investigated race-associated differences in MCI and dementia classification across diagnostic methods. The current study examined the agreement of cognitive classification made via semi-structured interview and neuropsychological assessment.

Participants and Methods:

Only participants assigned normal cognitive status or cognitive impairment with presumed Alzheimer’s etiology were included in the study. Baseline visit data in the National Alzheimer’s Coordinating Center (NACC) dataset was collected to compare correspondence of cognitive classification (normal cognition, MCI, dementia) via semi-structured interview (Clinical Dementia Rating; CDR) with formal NACC diagnostic determination. NACC diagnostic determination was further separated by single clinician and consensus diagnostic methods. Inter-rater agreement was evaluated using chi-squared tests, and respective analyses were stratified for race (Black vs White), ethnicity (Hispanic vs Non-Hispanic), and education (<12 years vs. >12 years).

Results:

The sample size included 4,739 Black and 26,393 White participants across 43 Alzheimer’s Disease Research Centers (ADRCs). Inter-rater analyses between CDR (semi-structured interview) versus single-clinician and formal consensus NACC diagnostic methods showed strong (all (pc>.70) consistency in cognitive diagnoses overall, irrespective of race, ethnicity, and education. The percentage of agreement between diagnostic methods was nearly 100% for those categorized as cognitively normal or with dementia. However, the agreement for MCI was considerably lower (ranging from 28-74%) and revealed a disparity in diagnostic method between Black and White individuals. White individuals diagnosed with MCI via CDR (CDR total =0.5) were more likely to be labeled as having dementia regardless of NACC diagnostic method. However, Black individuals diagnosed with MCI via CDR were equally likely to be diagnosed as cognitively normal or with dementia via the formal consensus method.

Conclusions:

Irrespective of race and other demographic variables, diagnostic methods had high agreement for groups labeled with normal cognition and dementia. Agreement was consistently lower for the group labeled with MCI, with Black individuals having greater variability in diagnostic differentials when diagnosed via formal consensus method. The results of the study suggest that neuropsychological assessment continues to be an integral component of diagnosing individuals with MCI, reducing possible sources of bias.
Spirituality moderates the relationship between cancer caregiver burden and depression
Authors: La In Seo , Johantgen Meg , Storr Carla L. , Zhu Shijun , Cagle John G. , Ross Alyson
Published: December 2023

Objectives

Cancer has become a chronic disease that requires a considerable amount of informal caregiving, often quite burdensome to family caregivers. However, the influence of spirituality on the caregivers’ burden and mental health outcomes has been understudied. This study was to examine how caregiver burden, spirituality, and depression change during cancer treatment and investigate the moderating role of spirituality in the relationship between caregiver burden and depression for a sample of caregivers of persons with cancer.

Methods

This secondary analysis used a longitudinal design employing 3 waves of data collection (at baseline, 3 months, and 6 months). Family caregivers completed the Caregiver Reaction Assessment, Spiritual Perspective Scale, and the PROMIS® depression measure. Linear mixed model analyses were used, controlling for pertinent covariates.

Results

Spirituality, total caregiver burden, and depression remained stable over 6 months. More than 30% of the caregivers had mild to severe depressive symptoms at 3 time points. There was evidence of overall burden influencing depression. Of note was a protective effect of caregivers’ spirituality on the relationship between depression and caregiver burden over time (b = −1.35, p = .015). The lower the spirituality, the stronger the relationship between depression and burden, especially regarding subscales of schedule burden, financial burden, and lack of family support.

Significance of results

Spirituality was a significant resource for coping with caregiving challenges. This study suggests that comprehensive screening and spiritual care for cancer caregivers may improve their cancer caregiving experience and possibly influence the care recipients’ health.
In situ resistivity measurement of metal surfaces to track down dislocations caused by high field conditioning
Authors: Coman M. , Jacewicz M. , Dancila D.
Published: December 2023

Conditioning of a metal surface in a high-voltage system is the progressive development of resistance to vacuum arcing over the operational life of the system. This is relevant for accelerator cavities, where high level of performance is only achievable after a long conditioning period. Beyond the accelerator research field, this is an important topic for any technology where breakdowns can cause device failure, either by directly disrupting device operation or by causing cumulative hardware damage.

We are developing a direct method to measure the surface resistivity of a metal surface that is being conditioned with a HV DC system by inducing a high frequency (GHz) radio-frequency current in the parallel-plate electrode system. If the system can function as a resonant cavity, the surface resistivity data would be encoded in its quality factor (Q-factor). The changes in the resistivity measured in cryogenic conditions would indicate a formation of dislocations under the surface, something that has been speculated as an important process behind the conditioning.

In this paper, we present two modified designs of the electrode system, which will act as a resonant cavity, the results of 3D EM simulations and experimental results regarding the characterization of this resonant system.
Quasioptical Fresnel-based lens antenna with frequency-steerable focal length for millimeter wave radars
Authors: Muckermann Niklas , Barowski Jan , Pohl Nils
Published: December 2023

This article presents the design of a dielectric lens antenna that utilizes the concept of a stepped Fresnel lens for focusing electromagnetic millimeter waves. Based on the quasi-optical properties of these waves, a Cartesian Oval is optimized and employed as a focusing lens. Multiple such lenses are combined to two different Fresnel-based lens antennas. We survey these newly designed lens antennas and compare them with a focusing lens antenna based on a Cartesian oval and a far-field lens antenna. Simulations and measurements with a frequency-modulated continuous-wave (FMCW) radar validate the effectiveness of the new design, demonstrating an even improved focus size while significantly reducing the size and weight of the lens antenna by up to 53% and by nearly 48 %, respectively. Additionally, the Fresnel-based lens antennas reveal a frequency dependency, enabling frequency-based steering of the focal length over a wide relative tuning range of 177%, which we thoroughly investigate for various bandwidths and center frequencies.
2Steps4Health project: Promotion of mental health in junior professional sports
Authors: Kaiser Johanna , Walter Nadja , Oppitz Lisa , Braun Barbara , Schmitz Julian
Published: December 2023

Abstract: Introduction: This brief report and study protocol emphasizes the growing recognition of the importance of mental health in young elite athletes, particularly during the vulnerable phase of adolescence, where bio-psycho-social demands are significant. It presents the 2Steps4Health project, which aims to reduce the risk of mental illness and enhance well-being by addressing stressors and empowering young elite athletes with coping strategies. Methods: 2Steps4Health is a stepped-care prevention program for young elite athletes aged 12–21 and comprises two levels (universal and indicated prevention). The evaluation study employs a longitudinal (quasi-) randomized intervention study design with a waiting control group, and it aims to equip participants with psychological skills to enhance overall well-being and resilience. The effectiveness of the program will be assessed using empirically validated questionnaires, with specific hypotheses for both prevention levels regarding life satisfaction, stress, recovery, self-esteem, and internalizing symptoms. Results: Available data will be analyzed using univariate repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVAs), allowing for both within and between group comparisons. Conclusion: With the help of its two prevention levels, 2Steps4Health combines clinical psychology approaches for symptom reduction with positive psychology for flourishing. Anticipated challenges include tight schedules and mental health stigma, addressed by offering group programs during training times and fostering support through connections with authorities. The project emphasizes the need for additional prevention actions targeting institutional factors influencing the mental health of young elite athletes.
Arctic and Sub‐Arctic Mechanisms Explaining Observed Increasing Northward Flow Through the Bering Strait and Why Models May Be Getting It Wrong
Authors: Peralta‐Ferriz Cecilia , Woodgate Rebecca A.
Published: December 2023

The Pacific oceanic input to the Arctic via the Bering Strait (important for western Arctic ice retreat, water properties, and nutrient supply) has been increasing for three decades. Using satellite Ocean Bottom Pressure (OBP) and Dynamic Ocean Topography (DOT) data, we show that long‐term trends in mooring data for a well‐sampled sub‐period (2003–2014) relate to summer OBP and DOT drop in the Arctic's East Siberian Sea (ESS), in turn caused by stronger westward ESS winds, and increased fall westward winds in the Bering Sea. OBP/DOT differences imply strong (0.17 psu/year) ESS salinization, likely caused by hitherto unappreciated increased Pacific inflow to that region. We find ESS OBP trends are (erroneously) reversed in older data versions, and estimate that ESS salinization may significantly mediate Bering Strait flow increase. These facts may explain why models assimilating older OBP data, or with erroneous Bering Strait salinities, fail to simulate observed Bering Strait flow increase.
COHESION: a core outcome set for the treatment of neonatal encephalopathy
Authors: Quirke Fiona A. , Ariff Shabina , Battin Malcolm R. , Bernard Caitlin , Biesty Linda , Bloomfield Frank H. , Daly Mandy , Finucane Elaine , Healy Patricia , Haas David M. , Kirkham Jamie J. , Kibet Vincent , Koskei Sarah , Meher Shireen , Molloy Eleanor J. , Niaz Maira , Bhraonáin Elaine Ní , Okaronon Christabell Omukagah , Parkes Matthew J. , Tabassum Farhana , Walker Karen , Webbe James W. H. , Devane Declan
Published: December 2023

Background

Heterogeneity in outcomes reported in trials of interventions for the treatment of neonatal encephalopathy (NE) makes evaluating the effectiveness of treatments difficult. Developing a core outcome set for NE treatment would enable researchers to measure and report the same outcomes in future trials. This would minimise waste, ensure relevant outcomes are measured and enable evidence synthesis. Therefore, we aimed to develop a core outcome set for treating NE.

Methods

Outcomes identified from a systematic review of the literature and interviews with parents were prioritised by stakeholders (n = 99 parents/caregivers, n = 101 healthcare providers, and n = 22 researchers/ academics) in online Delphi surveys. Agreement on the outcomes was achieved at online consensus meetings attended by n = 10 parents, n = 18 healthcare providers, and n = 13 researchers/ academics.

Results

Seven outcomes were included in the final core outcome set: survival; brain injury on imaging; neurological status at discharge; cerebral palsy; general cognitive ability; quality of life of the child, and adverse events related to treatment.

Conclusion

We developed a core outcome set for the treatment of NE. This will allow future trials to measure and report the same outcomes and ensure results can be compared. Future work should identify how best to measure the COS.

Impact

We have identified seven outcomes that should be measured and reported in all studies for the treatment of neonatal encephalopathy.

Previously, a core outcome set for neonatal encephalopathy treatments did not exist.

This will help to reduce heterogeneity in outcomes reported in clinical trials and other studies, and help researchers identify the best treatments for neonatal encephalopathy.
Genomic portrait and relatedness patterns of the Iron Age Log Coffin culture in northwestern Thailand
Authors: Carlhoff Selina , Kutanan Wibhu , Rohrlach Adam B. , Posth Cosimo , Stoneking Mark , Nägele Kathrin , Shoocongdej Rasmi , Krause Johannes
Published: December 2023

The Iron Age of highland Pang Mapha, northwestern Thailand, is characterised by a mortuary practice known as Log Coffin culture. Dating between 2300 and 1000 years ago, large coffins carved from individual teak trees have been discovered in over 40 caves and rock shelters. While previous studies focussed on the cultural development of the Log Coffin-associated sites, the origins of the practice, connections with other wooden coffin-using groups in Southeast Asia, and social structure within the region remain understudied. Here, we present genome-wide data from 33 individuals from five Log Coffin culture sites to study genetic ancestry profiles and genetic interconnectedness. The Log Coffin-associated genomes can be modelled as an admixture between Hòabìnhian hunter-gatherer-, Yangtze River farmer-, and Yellow River farmer-related ancestry. This indicates different influence spheres from Bronze and Iron Age individuals from northeastern Thailand as reflected by cultural practices. Our analyses also identify close genetic relationships within the sites and more distant connections between sites in the same and different river valleys. In combination with high mitochondrial haplogroup diversity and genome-wide homogeneity, the Log Coffin-associated groups from northwestern Thailand seem to have been a large, well-connected community, where genetic relatedness played a significant role in the mortuary ritual.
Non-prescribing of clozapine for outpatients with schizophrenia in real-world settings: The clinicians’ perspectives
Authors: Jakobsen Michelle Iris , Austin Stephen Fitzgerald , Storebø Ole Jakob , Nielsen Jimmi , Simonsen Erik
Published: December 2023

Clozapine is the gold standard for treating treatment-resistant schizophrenia although continuously underutilized. Previous surveys of clinicians have found that some of the most frequently cited barriers to clozapine prescribing are related to the blood-monitoring requirements. However, these surveys tend to explore general perspectives and may not reflect the true impact of different barriers in real-world outpatient settings. This study aimed to explore this issue. First, by surveying the clinicians responsible for the treatment of 39 clozapine-eligible, yet clozapine-naive, outpatients with schizophrenia. Then, based on the survey results, explanatory interviews with the participating psychiatrists were conducted and analyzed thematically. The most frequently cited reason for non-prescribing of clozapine was the expected non-compliance with blood-monitoring requirements; however, overall stability and/or severe mental illness was chosen as the most important reason in most patient-cases. The qualitative analysis highlighted the combined impact of standard clinical practice, personal experiences, and organizational constraints on clozapine utility.
Numerical simulation studies of the new quaternary MAX phase as future engineering applications: The case study of the Nb2ScAC2 (A = Al, Si) compounds
Authors: Azzouz-Rached Ahmed , Bendjemai Mohammed , Husain Mudasser , Bentouaf Ali , Rekab-Djabri Hamza , Tirth Vineet , Algahtani Ali , Al-Mughanam Tawfiq , Alghtani Abdulaziz H. , Alrobei Hussein , Elhadi Muawya , Rahman Nasir
Published: December 2023

Recently, MAX phases have attained considerable technological interest owing to their two inherent properties metallic and ceramic properties. This study extensively examined Nb2ScAC2 MAX phases using DFT, to assess the structural, mechanical, electronic, and Thermal characteristics. Firstly, the stability of these two compounds was confirmed through the formation energy, elastic constants (Cij), and phonon band structure, which confirmed their thermodynamic, mechanical, and dynamical stability. The optimized lattice parameters of these compounds were examined and then utilized to calculate the physical properties of the Nb2ScAC2 compound. Our compounds are brittle due to their Pugh’s ratio of less than 1.75. The covalent bonding of the structure revealed by the Poisson ratio is less than 0.25 for the two compounds. The Nb2ScAC2 material is anisotropic, and Nb2ScAlC2 is harder than Nb2ScSiC2.The metallic character of the materials was affirmed by the electronic band structure analysis. Calculated thermal properties such as Debye temperature and minimum and lattice thermal conductivity reveal that both compounds have the potential to enhance their deployment in thermal barrier coating materials. On the other hand, the high melting temperatures indicate that our compounds could potentially be utilized in demanding or severe conditions. Finally, the thermodynamic characteristics, comprising the isochoric heat capacity (Cv) and Debye temperature (ϴD) were analyzed subjected to high temperatures and pressures. The optical constants such as real and imaginary parts of the dielectric function, refractive index and reflectivity, are investigated. The current study recognizes these two compounds as promising candidates for utilization in modern technologies and diverse industries.
Unraveling the maternal and paternal origins of allotetraploid Vigna reflexo-pilosa
Authors: Lee Jayern , Kang Yang Jae , Park Halim , Shim Sangrea , Ha Jungmin , Lee Taeyoung , Kim Moon Young , Lee Suk-Ha
Published: December 2023

The genomic structures of Vigna hirtella Ridl. and Vigna trinervia (B.Heyne ex Wight & Arn.) Tateishi & Maxted, key ancestral species of the allotetraploid Vigna reflexo-pilosa var. glabra (Roxb.) N.Tomooka & Maxted, remain poorly understood. This study presents a comprehensive genomic comparison of these species to deepen our knowledge of their evolutionary trajectories. By comparing the genomic profiles of V. hirtella and V. trinervia with those of V. reflexo-pilosa, we investigate the complex genomic mechanisms underlying allopolyploid evolution within the genus Vigna. Comparison of the chloroplast genome revealed that V. trinervia is closely related to V. reflexo-pilosa. De novo assembly of the whole genome, followed by synteny analysis and Ks value calculations, confirms that V. trinervia is closely related to the A genome of V. reflexo-pilosa, and V. hirtella to its B genome. Furthermore, the comparative analyses reveal that V. reflexo-pilosa retains residual signatures of a previous polyploidization event, particularly evident in higher gene family copy numbers. Our research provides genomic evidence for polyploidization within the genus Vigna and identifies potential donor species of allotetraploid species using de novo assembly techniques. Given the Southeast Asian distribution of both V. hirtella and V. trinervia, natural hybridization between these species, with V. trinervia as the maternal ancestor and V. hirtella as the paternal donor, seems plausible.
Experiences, perceptions, and decision-making capacity towards oral biopsy among dental students and dentists
Authors: Cassol Spanemberg Juliana , Velázquez Cayón Rocío , Romanini Juliana , Trevizani Martins Marco Antonio , López-Jornet Pía , Carrard Vinicius Coelho
Published: December 2023

The dentist plays a crucial role in identifying oral lesions as it is their responsibility to conduct the clinical examination for diagnosing diseases in this anatomical region. Dentists should be able to perform simple oral biopsies when this procedure is necessary. However, several studies point out that dentists lack experience and perceive themselves incapable of performing biopsies. This analytical cross-sectional study aimed to assess participants' experiences and perceptions regarding a continuing education activity focused on the biopsy procedure. The secondary aim was to evaluate their ability to determine when a biopsy is indicated. The sample consisted of 228 individuals: 143 dentists and 85 undergraduate dental students who completed questionnaires related to a lecture held in May/2021, as part of the continuing educational activities of the “Red May” Project. Participants completed two questionnaires: the first assessed their experience and self-confidence in performing oral biopsies, whereas the second evaluated their capacity to define when the biopsy is indicated by means the evaluation of 10 clinical cases. The results reveal no significant difference in the percentage of correct answers between dental students and dentists. Regarding the frequency of performing the biopsy procedure, most respondents (69.7%) reported doing so rarely or never. Furthermore, while 31.6% of the participants stated that they perform biopsies depending on the case, 68.4% prefer to refer patients to specialists, such as professionals in Stomatology/Oral Medicine. These findings highlight limitations in the educational preparation of the study population concerning biopsy procedures, oral lesions, and their management. They also indicate a concerning tendency to overestimate knowledge in this area. Thus, this study emphasizes the importance of continuing education and underscores the need to revise academic curricula and provide complementary education for all dental professionals.
Strategic Approach to the Design of Polymers from Natural Oils
Authors: Petrović Z. S. , Hong J.
Published: December 2023

Natural oils are a large group of substances with varied compositions and properties. Thus, their utilization in polymers must be carefully planned. Generally, oils are less pure starting materials for the synthesis of polymers compared to petrochemicals, which may have a negative or positive influence on their applications. Designing oils with a desired structure by genetic modifications for a given application is an exciting future development. This chapter tries to systematically analyze the influence of structural factors on the properties and the technologies used to obtain desired products.
Preparation and Application of Renewable Intrinsically Flame-retardant Epoxy Resins from Plant Oils
Authors: Li Wenbin , Nie Xiaoan , Chen Jie
Published: December 2023

Plant oils are excellent renewable raw materials for thermosetting polymers, especially epoxy resins. The presence of double bonds, hydroxyl groups, and carboxyl groups in triglycerides allows for the attachment of some functional groups through chemical modification. Here we describe various chemical pathways for functionalizing triglycerides and fatty acids. Plant-oil-based epoxy resins exhibit the same excellent performance as petroleum-based epoxy resins, but burn easily, which limits their application in high-speed rail, aircraft, construction, and other fields. Therefore, imparting flame retardancy to vegetable-oil-based epoxy resins is very important. This chapter aims to summarize the most relevant and recent advances in intrinsically flame-retardant plant-oil-based epoxy resins. First, the synthesis method of a plant-oil-based flame retardant epoxy monomer is briefly introduced. Then special attention is paid to the flame retardancy, mechanical properties, and thermal stability of some plant-oil-based flame retardant epoxy resin thermosets of plant-oil-based epoxy monomers or curing agents. Finally, we briefly comment on the opportunities and challenges for the future development of plant-oil-based flame retardant epoxy thermosets.
Industrial Chemicals Via Decarboxylation of Natural Carboxylic Acids
Authors: Doll Kenneth M. , Moser Bryan R.
Published: December 2023

Alternatives to petroleum-derived products, from biobased starting materials, have been a goal in the area of green materials, for private, university, and government researchers for many years. Although progress toward the goal of a major biobased economy is evident in several commercialized areas, such as biobased fuels, high profile business failures are unfortunately still commonplace in the private sector. This chapter highlights a newly developed decarboxylation technology that can be leveraged to convert fatty acids or carbohydrates into high-value renewable products for the future. It gives the promise of at least some petroleum replacement, as well as an alternative to some environmentally detrimental processes.
Plant Oil-based Plasticizers
Authors: Hu Yun , Jia Puyou
Published: December 2023

With the rising price and the gradual depletion of petrochemical resources, the issues of energy and environmental protection have attracted increasing concern. Renewable alternatives are cheap and environmentally friendly materials, and they became a hotspot in the plastic industry. The introduction of renewable biomass resources to prepare biomass polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plasticizers can realize the purpose of environmental protection and resource saving. Among all the biomass resources, vegetable oil-based plasticizers have come into the sight of researchers with their remarkable advantages of biodegradability, hypotoxicity, low price, excellent solvent resistance and so on. In this chapter, vegetable oil-based plasticizers are classified on the basis of their chemical structures and functionality, and the multifunctional industrial applications of plasticizers are discussed.
Two in one: aluminum porphyrin-based porous organic polymers containing symmetrical quaternary phosphonium salts for catalytic conversion of CO2 into cyclic carbonates
Authors: Chen Kechi , Wu Yuanxiang , Zhang Zixuan , Yang Yiying , Luo Rongchang
Published: December 2023

Aluminium porphyrin-based ionic porous organic polymers with quaternary phosphonium salts synergistically catalyzed the cycloaddition of CO2 with epoxides under mild conditions.
Nitroiminotriazole (NIT) based potential solid propellants: synthesis, characterization, and applications
Authors: Lal Sohan , Staples Richard J. , Shreeve Jean'ne M.
Published: December 2023

Triazole-based nitroimino compounds and their high-nitrogen green energetic salts were synthesized and characterized as potential solid rocket propellants.
One-step synthesis of photoluminescent nanofluids by direct loading of reactively sputtered cubic ZrN nanoparticles into organic liquids
Authors: Protsak Mariia , Biliak Kateryna , Nikitin Daniil , Pleskunov Pavel , Tosca Marco , Ali-Ogly Suren , Hanuš Jan , Hanyková Lenka , Červenková Veronika , Sergievskaya Anastasiya , Konstantinidis Stephanos , Cornil David , Cornil Jérôme , Cieslar Miroslav , Košutová Tereza , Popelář Tomáš , Ondič Lukáš , Choukourov Andrei
Published: December 2023

Sputtering of Zr in Ar/N2 produces stoichiometric, crystalline, conductive, and plasmonic ZrN nanoparticles that can be directly loaded into liquids.
The use of energy looping between Tm3+ and Er3+ ions to obtain an intense upconversion under the 1208 nm radiation and its use in temperature sensing
Authors: Grzyb Tomasz , Martín Inocencio R. , Popescu Radian
Published: December 2023

Core@shell nanoparticles doped with Tm3+ and Er3+ ions exhibit intense temperature-dependent photon upconversion when subjected to 1208 nm laser excitation. The mechanism behind this observed emission is elucidated, unveiling its intricate nature.
Molecular mechanisms and energetics of lipid droplet formation and directional budding
Authors: Kazemisabet Fatemeh , Bahrami Arash , Ghosh Rikhia , Różycki Bartosz , Bahrami Amir H.
Published: December 2023

Coarse-grained simulations are used to explore how lipid droplets form in the endoplasmic reticulum membrane and how they subsequently bud towards the cytosol.
Biological and mutational analyses of CXCR4–antagonist interactions and design of new antagonistic analogs
Authors: Meng Qian , Zhu Ruohan , Mao Yujia , Zhu Siyu , Wu Yi , Huang Lina S.M. , Ciechanover Aaron , An Jing , Xu Yan , Huang Ziwei
Published: December 2023

The chemokine receptor CXCR4 has become an attractive therapeutic target for HIV-1 infection, hematopoietic stem cell mobilization, and cancer metastasis. A wide variety of synthetic antagonists of CXCR4 have been developed and studied for a growing list of clinical applications. To compare the biological effects of different antagonists on CXCR4 functions and their common and/or distinctive molecular interactions with the receptor, we conducted head-to-head comparative cell-based biological and mutational analyses of the interactions with CXCR4 of eleven reported antagonists, including HC4319, DV3, DV1, DV1 dimer, V1, vMIP-II, CVX15, LY2510924, IT1t, AMD3100, and AMD11070 that were representative of different structural classes of D-peptides, L-peptide, natural chemokine, cyclic peptides, and small molecules. The results were rationalized by molecular modeling of CXCR4–antagonist interactions from which the common as well as different receptor binding sites of these antagonists were derived, revealing a number of important residues such as W94, D97, H113, D171, D262, and E288, mostly of negative charge. To further examine this finding, we designed and synthesized new antagonistic analogs by adding positively charged residues Arg to a D-peptide template to enhance the postulated charge–charge interactions. The newly designed analogs displayed significantly increased binding to CXCR4, which supports the notion that negatively charged residues of CXCR4 can engage in interactions with moieties of positive charge of the antagonistic ligands. The results from these mutational, modeling and new analog design studies shed new insight into the molecular mechanisms of different types of antagonists in recognizing CXCR4 and guide the development of new therapeutic agents.
K2 results for “young” α-rich stars in the Galaxy
Authors: Grisoni V. , Chiappini C. , Miglio A. , Brogaard K. , Casali G. , Willett E. , Montalbán J. , Stokholm A. , Thomsen J. S. , Tailo M. , Matteuzzi M. , Valentini M. , Elsworth Y. , Mosser B.
Published: December 2023

Context. The origin of apparently young α-rich stars in the Galaxy is still a matter of debate in Galactic archaeology, whether they are genuinely young or might be products of binary evolution, and mergers or mass accretion.

Aims. Our aim is to shed light on the nature of young α-rich stars in the Milky Way by studying their distribution in the Galaxy thanks to an unprecedented sample of giant stars that cover different Galactic regions and have precise asteroseismic ages, and chemical and kinematic measurements.

Methods. We analyzed a new sample of ∼6000 stars with precise ages coming from asteroseismology. Our sample combines the global asteroseismic parameters measured from light curves obtained by the K2 mission with stellar parameters and chemical abundances obtained from APOGEE DR17 and GALAH DR3, then cross-matched with Gaia DR3. We define our sample of young α-rich stars and study their chemical, kinematic, and age properties.

Results. We investigated young α-rich stars in different parts of the Galaxy and we find that the fraction of young α-rich stars remains constant with respect to the number of high-α stars at ∼10%. Furthermore, young α-rich stars have kinematic and chemical properties similar to high-α stars, except for [C/N] ratios.

Conclusions. Thanks to our new K2 sample, we conclude that young α-rich stars have similar occurrence rates in different parts of the Galaxy, and that they share properties similar to the normal high-α population, except for [C/N] ratios. This suggests that these stars are not genuinely young, but are products of binary evolution, and mergers or mass accretion. Under that assumption, we find the fraction of these stars in the field to be similar to that found recently in clusters. This suggests that ∼10% of the low-α field stars could also have their ages underestimated by asteroseismology. This should be kept in mind when using asteroseismic ages to interpret results in Galactic archaeology.
Sb induced effect on glass transition, crystallization kinetics and optical properties of Se96Sn4 alloy
Authors: Ansari Rafiullah , Kumar Ajit , Singh Kedar , Kumar Horesh
Published: December 2023

Se96-xSn4Sbx (x = 0, 2, 4, 6, and 8) glassy alloys were prepared using the melt quench technique. Thermal measurements were carried out using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) in non-isothermal mode. Kissinger and Moynihan methods are used for glass transition kinetics, while Kissinger, Takhor, and Augis-Bennet methods are used to study crystallization kinetics. The inclusion of Sb in the alloy increased the glass transition temperature (Tg), activation energy of the glass transition (Et), and activation energy of crystallisation (Ec). The chemical bond approach has been used to explain the results. The rising trend of Ec is explained by the production of SnSe4/2 structural units with energies greater than those of Se–Se and Se–Sb bonds, increasing the degree of cross-linking. The dimensionality of crystal growth changes from one to two with the addition of Sb to the Se-Sn alloy. The criterion for thermal stability was addressed by using the enthalpy emitted during the crystallization process. In addition, Kubelka-Munk transformation and Tauc plots were used to calculate the band gaps. The energy gap (Eg) decreases from 3.72 to 1.60 eV as the Sb concentration increases from 0 to 8 atm%.
Suprapatellar nailing in complex Tibial Fractures
Authors: Gadegone Wasudeo , Gadegone Piyush , Lokhande Vijayanand
Published: December 2023

Purpose: This study evaluates the functional and radiological outcomes of segmental and comminuted tibial fractures using a suprapatellar approach in semi extended position. Methods: A total of 62 patients, with a mean age of 40.8 (range: 21–78 yrs) and 43 males and 19 females, were retrospectively evaluated between January 2017 and December 2022. Patients with comminated tibial fracture AO Type 42 C3 (32) and segmental AO Type 42 C2 (21) AO Type 42 C1 (9) were treated with a IMN using the suprapatellar technique. There were 51 closed fractures and 11 grade-one open fractures. All patients were subjected to the suprapatellar nailing technique in the semi-extended position. Results: Fracture healing 20.4 weeks on average was needed for the fracture to heal in segmental and 21.2 weeks in comminuted fracture. There were two instances of the delayed union in comminuted fractures. In two cases of segmental fracture dynamization is required. One case of non-union required bone grafting in a segmental fracture and in two instances in comminuted fractures to improve union after four months of monitoring. Primary union occurred in 56 patients. After minimum of 10.2 months of follow-up. According to Johner and Wruh’s criteria with modifications, out of 62 patients, 47 had excellent results, 10 had good results, and 5 had fair results. Conclusions: In segmental and comminuted fracture tibia, the suprapatellar IMN technique in a semi-extended position results in a significantly lower rate of malalignment, and good union because of soft tissue friendly bypass surgery.
Red Bull PET/CT
Authors: Serfling Sebastian E , Buck Andreas , Rowe Steven P , Higuchi Takahiro , Werner Rudolf
Published: December 2023

We report on a patient diagnosed with Hodgkin Lymphoma who was scheduled for [18F]FDG PET/CT as part of routine follow-up after treatment with two cycles of chemotherapy and mediastinal external beam radiation. Although the patient was advised to fast for at least four hours, an energy drink (Red Bull ) was ingested right after radiotracer administration, which led to increased uptake in the large skeletal muscles, thereby rendering this scan as non-diagnostic. After strictly following respective dietary recommendations, the repeated scan then provided excellent image quality and revealed response to treatment. In the present case report, we discuss the impact of major ingredients (sugar, caffeine, taurine, glucuronolactone) of Red Bull on large muscle uptake, which may also apply to “sugar-free” types of this popular energy drink. Moreover, this case reports demonstrates the importance to inform patients that they should avoid intake of energy drinks not only prior to but also after injection of [18F]FDG.
Shariah-related disclosure: a literature review and directions for future research
Authors: Abdulrahman Zunaiba , Ebrahimi Tahera , Al-Najjar Basil
Published: December 2023

A substantial scholarly discourse surrounds Shariah legislation, yet previous studies have offered limited evidence regarding the necessity of Shariah-related disclosure (SRD), its extent, determining factors, and its impact on performance. This paper seeks to provide a comprehensive review of existing SRD literature within Islamic institutions. To achieve this, we conducted a systematic literature review encompassing 44 studies published in journals from 2003 to 2023. The research articles were systematically categorized based on types of SRD, levels, methodologies employed, determining factors, and their consequent effects on performance. The findings underscore a significant knowledge gap and inconclusive results in the current literature, thereby identifying avenues for future research. Notably, our results indicate that the majority of prior studies are quantitative in nature and have employed secondary data from Islamic banks in Muslim countries. Likewise, research pertaining to other Islamic institutions and their voluntary adherence to Accounting and Auditing Organization for Islamic Financial Institutions guidelines is underreported. Furthermore, our findings suggest that previous studies have often placed undue emphasis on other forms of disclosure or have only considered SRD as a subset of broader categories. Contrarily, the number of studies on this subject has increased in recent years, with more than half of the surveys conducted in the last 8 years of the sample period. In forthcoming research, it is advisable to independently explore SRD and employ Islamic proxies to assess its impact on performance. Moreover, researchers are encouraged to investigate cross-industry differences in this context. The results of this survey will be of significant interest to both academics and non-academics seeking information on Shariah compliance disclosures.
Characterisation of organic carbon distribution and turnover by stable carbon isotopes in major types of soils in China
Authors: Meng Danyang , Shao Yang , Luo Min , Cheng Hangxin , Liu Zhiming , Xu Diandou , Ma Lingling
Published: December 2023

Environmental context Soil carbon sequestration plays an important role in achieving the goal of carbon neutrality. We studied the characteristics of organic carbon distribution and sequestration by stable carbon isotopes in nine types of soils in China and found that macro-aggregates possessed more organic carbon with a low degree of decomposition, while the overall direction of organic carbon transfer between aggregates was from macro-aggregates through micro-aggregates to the grain-size fractions of chalky clay. These results provide a foundation for understanding soil carbon sequestration in China’s cultivated lands. Rationale Soil is the largest carbon reservoir of terrestrial ecosystems. Studying carbon turnover in cultivated soils is vital for China to achieve its carbon neutrality goal. Methodology In this research, we investigated the distribution characteristics of soil organic carbon and its turnover among aggregates in nine major soil types in China by 13C stable isotopes. Results Since the second national soil survey in China 1979, the surface soil organic carbon (SOC) content of cultivated lands in boggy soils, black soils and dark brown forest soils in northeastern China has decreased (129.06, 2.70 and 7.78 g kg−1, respectively) while increased in cinnamon soils, brown soils, red soils, latosols, paddy soils and chestnut soils (0.85–7.79 g kg−1). Overall, the SOC content was highest in 1–0.25 mm aggregates, lowest in 0.053–0.02 mm aggregates and higher in <0.02 mm aggregates. The Δ13C value showed that the silt-clay size class fraction > micro-aggregates > macro-aggregates. Discussion The overall turnover direction of SOC among aggregates starts from macro-aggregates to micro-aggregates and ends with the silt-clay size class fraction. The result directly confirms both the ‘hierarchical development model’ and ‘embryonic development model’ of soil aggregate formation. The SOC flow direction and mobility potential between aggregates, as indicated by Δ13C values, suggest that cultivated soils are more susceptible to soil type than wasteland soils.
Promoting C–F bond activation via proton donor for CF
4
decomposition
Authors: Chen Yingkang , Qu Wenqiang , Luo Tao , Zhang Hang , Fu Junwei , Li Hongmei , Liu Changxu , Zhang Dengsong , Liu Min
Published: December 2023

Tetrafluoromethane (CF
4
), the simplest perfluorocarbons, is a permanently potent greenhouse gas due to its powerful infrared radiation adsorption capacity. The highly symmetric and robust C–F bond structure makes its activation a great challenge. Herein, we presented an innovated approach that efficiently activates C–F bond utilizing protonated sulfate (–HSO
4
) modified Al
2
O
3
@ZrO
2
(S-Al
2
O
3
@ZrO
2
) catalyst, resulting in highly efficient CF
4
decomposition. By combining in situ infrared spectroscopy tests and density function theory simulations, we demonstrate that the introduced –HSO
4
proton donor has a stronger interaction on the C–F bond than the hydroxyl (–OH) proton donor, which can effectively stretch the C–F bond for its activation. Consequently, the obtained S-Al
2
O
3
@ZrO
2
catalyst achieved a stable 100% CF
4
decomposition at a record low temperature of 580 °C with a turnover frequency value of ~8.3 times higher than the Al
2
O
3
@ZrO
2
catalyst without –HSO
4
modification, outperforming the previously reported results. This work paves a new way for achieving efficient C–F bond activation to decompose CF
4
at a low temperature.
“A history lesson, perhaps, for my novice counterpart”
Authors: Mortazavi Seyed Mohammadreza , Zandi Hamed , Makki Mohammad
Published: December 2023

In this paper, we explore how (im)politeness and face are managed by two top diplomats of the US and Iran amidst
an ongoing conflict where both claim to occupy moral high grounds. To that end, 360 relevant tweets posted on the Iranian Foreign
Minister and US Secretary of State’s official accounts over one year were selected and analyzed qualitatively through the
theoretical lens of Culpeper’s (2011) impoliteness formulae and implicational
impoliteness framework. Three overarching pragmatic functions were identified: criticizing the adversary, giving directives, and
showing solidarity with allies while projecting a significant amount of face-threat to the adversary. We also identified three
main strategies that they used to justify their impoliteness, namely, appeal to the moral order, appeal to common sense, and
appeal to international conventions and regulations. These findings can contribute to impoliteness literature by providing
insights into the pragmatic functions and justifications in political communication, where the speakers have to balance their face
needs and their communicative goals.
DEMNUni: disentangling dark energy from massive neutrinos with the void size function
Authors: Verza Giovanni , Carbone Carmelita , Pisani Alice , Renzi Alessandro
Published: December 2023

Cosmic voids, the underdense regions in the Universe, are impacted by dark energy and massive neutrinos. In this work, relying on the DEMNUni suite of cosmological simulations, we explore the void size function in cosmologies with both dynamical dark energy and massive neutrinos. We investigate the impact of different choices of dark matter tracers on the void size function and study its sensitivity to the joint effect of several dark energy equations of state and total neutrino masses.
In particular, we find that for all the combinations of neutrino mass and dark energy equation of state considered, the differences between the corresponding void size functions are larger than the associated Poisson noise, and therefore can be all distinguished. This looks very promising considering that forthcoming surveys, as the Euclid satellite, will be characterised by a void statistics with similar number densities and volumes as for the DEMNUni suite. These findings show that the use of the void size function in forthcoming large galaxy surveys will be extremely useful in breaking degeneracies among these cosmological parameters.