bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Defining the Synthetic Scope of ortho‐Quinone Methides by Quantifying their Electrophilicity
Authors: Gross Christoph , Eitzinger Andreas , Hampel Nathalie , Mayer Peter , Ofial Armin R.
Published: November 2024

A series of aryl‐substituted ortho‐quinone methides (oQMs) was synthesised and structurally characterised. Kinetic studies of the nucleophilic additions of carbanions (reference nucleophiles) to oQMs were used to determine second‐order rate constants k2 for the carbon‐carbon bond forming reactions (20 °C, DMSO) at the oQMs’ exocyclic π‐bond. Analysing the kinetic data by the linear free energy relationship lg k2=sN(N+E) revealed the Mayr electrophilicities E of the oQMs. The electrophilicities E of oQMs correlate linearly with Hammett substituent constants and experimentally determined reduction potentials Epred as well as with quantum‐chemically calculated methyl anion affinities (MAAs), which provides valuable tools for prediciting the reactivity of further types of oQMs. Embedding the oQMs in Mayr's reactivity scales enables to predict novel nucleophilic reaction partners for oQMs and can productively be used to prepare simple Michael adducts as well as 4+2 or 4+1 cyclisation products as demonstrated in this work by several novel reactions with neutral or negatively charged C‐, N‐, and S‐nucleophiles.
Optimization Across‐The‐Board: Centro‐Arylated Push‐Pull Tetraene Chromophores and Guest‐Host Polymers for Electro‐Optics
Authors: Zhang Di , Luo Jingdong
Published: November 2024

The research and development of push‐pull tetraene chromophores (PPT‐phores) have contributed greatly to the field of organic electro‐optic (EO) materials and devices since the inauguration of CLD‐1 in 2001. This study is thus a systematic contribution to synthesize and characterize a series of centro‐arylated PPT‐phores based on strong electron‐donating tetrahydroquinolinyl groups and variable strong electron‐accepting tricyanofuran derivatives. In particular, we report the crystallographic data to show various packing modes of these PPT‐phores with detailed information about bond length alternation and intermolecular interactions, the optical absorption edges of guest‐host polymers by the Tauc model, and the anisotropy and dispersion of Pockels tensors for the poled polymers by attenuated total reflection spectroscopy. Such analyses have not been addressed to any significant extent previously and are fundamentally important to the future development of PPT‐phore‐based EO materials and devices. The poled films of several centro‐arylated PPT‐phores in polycarbonates exhibited large EO activities, excellent thermal stability, and tunable optical transparency at the telecom O‐ and C‐band. The study demonstrates the effectiveness of π‐bridge centro‐arylation enabled by molecular shape modification and rigidity enhancement, over the relatively flexible and labile thioether or alkoxy groups, in rational design of hyperpolarizable PPT‐phores for high‐performance EO polymers.
Maintaining Organizational Resilience Amidst Socio‐Political Turmoil: Lessons From the Jewish—Palestinian Context
Authors: Jakob Sadeh Linda
Published: November 2024

We live in an era dominated by political fervor, escalating social divisions, and increasing polarization, posing challenges to diverse organizations. In this paper, I delve into the impact of mega‐threats—external societal events with wide media coverage that evoke intense negative emotions—on organizations promoting diversity and inclusion. I explore how organizations can sustain resilience, acting as safe spaces where individuals from diverse identities and ideological perspectives feel a sense of belonging and can maintain their unique voice. Drawing on a 15‐month ethnographic study of an organization navigating the protracted national conflict between Palestinians and Jews, I uncover a two‐pronged organizational strategy. This strategy, balancing demographic representation with a commitment to avoiding the national conflict and maintaining neutrality, successfully preserves diversity, as well as crucial elements of inclusion, such as employees' sense of security and, at times, belonging. However, it falls short in cultivating resilience in the voice component, potentially leading to lower well‐being, increased avoidant work behaviors, and compromises in organizational cohesion. Avoidance also compromises organizational learning, preventing the development of capacities to address potential threats. The research contributes to the knowledge on organizational resilience in the face of mega‐threats, urging organizations to move beyond harmony‐focused approaches and address conflicts proactively for sustained diversity and inclusion.
Engagement in Intermittent Fasting is Prospectively Associated With Higher Body Mass Index, Higher Eating Disorder Psychopathology, and Lower Intuitive Eating in Chinese Adults
Authors: He Jinbo , Chen Xi , Cui Tianxiang , Xiao Yueyang , Barnhart Wesley R. , Wang Yitong , Yi Shouhe , Nagata Jason M.
Published: November 2024

Objective

This study examined cross‐sectional and longitudinal associations of intermittent fasting (IF) engagement with body mass index (BMI), both thinness‐oriented and muscularity‐oriented eating disorder (ED) psychopathology, eating‐related psychosocial impairment, and intuitive eating.

Method

Using a longitudinal design, 491 Chinese adults (M
age = 30.33 years, SD = 7.89) provided data regarding BMI, IF status, and eating variables at baseline (T1) and 8‐month (T2) follow‐up. One‐way ANOVA was used to explore cross‐sectional associations between IF engagement at T1 and study variables (i.e., BMI and eating variables) at T1. Cross‐lagged regression analyses were used to examine the longitudinal associations between IF engagement at T1 and study variables at T2, after adjusting for covariates and study variables at T1.

Results

Cross‐sectionally, compared with participants who never engaged in IF at T1, those with current or past engagement in IF at T1 exhibited significantly higher BMI, ED psychopathology, eating‐related psychosocial impairment, and lower intuitive eating at T1. Longitudinally, relative to never engagement in IF at T1, both current and past engagement in IF at T1 were associated with higher ED psychopathology and greater eating‐related psychosocial impairment at T2. Also, relative to never engagement in IF at T1, past engagement in IF at T1 was associated with higher BMI at T2 and lower unconditional permission to eat as a facet of intuitive eating at T2.

Discussion

The findings challenge the perception of IF as an effective approach for weight loss and also suggest IF might have enduring adverse impacts on eating behaviors, similar to traditional forms of dieting.
ECG‐based epileptic seizure prediction: Challenges of current data‐driven models
Authors: Kalousios Sotirios , Müller Jens , Yang Hongliu , Eberlein Matthias , Uckermann Ortrud , Schackert Gabriele , Polanski Witold H. , Leonhardt Georg
Published: November 2024

Objective

Up to a third of patients with epilepsy fail to achieve satisfactory seizure control. A reliable method of predicting seizures would alleviate psychological and physical impact. Dysregulation in heart rate variability (HRV) has been found to precede epileptic seizures and may serve as an extracerebral predictive biomarker. This study aims to identify the preictal HRV dynamics and unveil the factors impeding the clinical application of ECG‐based seizure prediction.

Methods

Thirty‐nine adult patients (eight women; median age: 38, [IQR = 31, 56.5]) with 252 seizures were included. Each patient had more than three recorded epileptic seizures, each at least 2 hours apart. For each seizure, one hour of ECG prior to seizure onset was analyzed and 97 HRV features were extracted from overlapping three‐minute windows with 10s stride. Two separate patient‐specific experiments were performed using a support vector machine (SVM). Firstly, the separability of training data was examined in a non‐causal trial. Secondly, the prediction was attempted in pseudo‐prospective conditions. Finally, visualized HRV data, clinical metadata, and results were correlated.

Results

The mean receiver operating characteristic (ROC) area under the curve (AUC) for the non‐causal experiment was 0.823 (±0.12), with 208 (82.5%) seizures achieving an improvement over chance (IoC) classification score (p < 0.05, Hanley & McNeil test). In pseudo‐prospective classification, the ROC‐AUC was 0.569 (±0.17), and 86 (49.4%) seizures were classified with IoC. Off‐sample optimized SVMs failed to improve performance. Major limiting factors identified include non‐stationarity, variable preictal duration and dynamics. The latter is expressed as both inter‐seizure onset zone (SOZ) and intra‐SOZ variability.

Significance

The pseudo‐prospective preictal classification achieving IoC in approximately half of tested seizures suggests the presence of genuine preictal HRV dynamics, but the overall performance does not warrant clinical application at present. The limiting factors identified are often overlooked in non‐causal study designs. While current deterministic prediction methods prove inadequate, probabilistic approaches may offer a promising alternative.

Plain Language Summary

Many patients with epilepsy suffer from uncontrollable seizures and would greatly benefit from a reliable seizure prediction method. Currently, no such system is available to meet this need. Previous studies suggest that changes in the electrocardiogram (ECG) precede seizures by several minutes. In our work, we evaluated whether variations in heart rate could be used to predict epileptic seizures. Our findings indicate that we are still far from achieving results suitable for clinical application and highlight several limiting factors of present seizure prediction approaches.
Medical Resource Scarcity and Inequality in COVID‐19 Fatality Rates: Evidence From Hospitalized Patients in Wuhan, China
Authors: Zhang Dandan , Zhang Xiang‐Ming , Liu Xiao
Published: November 2024

Wuhan, China, where SARS‐CoV‐2 was detected first, has been recorded as one of the epicenters with the highest COVID‐19 fatality rates worldwide. High COVID‐19 fatality rates may stem from severe medical resource scarcity, especially in the early stage of the pandemic outbreak. In the first few weeks of the COVID‐19 outbreak, Wuhan experienced the hardship of a severe “hospital run” period, when hospitals operated far beyond their maximum capacity and then soon transformed into “inclusive healthcare,” that is, every infectious person can access free medical treatment. Based on detailed administrative data of hospital admission and medical treatment for 1537 COVID‐19 patients, we investigate how the COVID‐19 fatality rates can be affected by the patient's socioeconomic status (SES) and differences in the effect between the two periods. Our estimation results show that low‐SES patients had higher fatality rates during the “hospital run” period. Differential opportunities for hospitalization do not drive this inequality in fatality rates; rather, they are driven by the medical treatment after hospital admission, namely reduced treatment intensity and limited access to specific medical treatment and medications for COVID‐19. When the government implemented the “inclusive healthcare” policy, severe medical resource scarcity was alleviated, and the inequality in fatality rates ceased to exist. These findings verify the existence of medical inequality among low‐SES people amid severe medical resource shortages and also highlight the importance of rapidly increasing hospital capacity and medical supply in reducing possible unequal treatment and tackling inequalities in medical outcomes, especially during a public health crisis.
Rosettes in a matrix: Predicting spatial variation in density of a large felid in a forest‐production mosaic
Authors: Paul Anish , Kumar Nitish , Mukherjee Tonmoy , Chhetri Amir Kumar , Kshettry Aritra
Published: November 2024

Large carnivores are keystone for ecosystems and flagships for conservation efforts but face severe threats globally. Protected areas are vital for the conservation of these charismatic species along with a host of ecological processes. However, the extent and scope of protected areas for conservation of all threatened species is limited, especially in the global south. Considering larger landscapes that can be compatible with large carnivore conservation goals is an alternative approach to ensure their persistence. This study explores the potential of multi‐use landscapes for the persistence of a globally threatened large felid, the Indian leopard (Panthera pardus fusca). This study investigated the spatial variability of leopard densities across a land‐use gradient using spatially explicit capture‐recapture framework in a tea‐plantation‐dominated forest‐production landscape mosaic in the Duars region of northeastern India. While the density of leopards in this landscape was estimated to be 7.96 ± 1.56 (SE) per 100 km2, significant (p = .048, t = 2.02, df=61) differences in estimates were observed between tea‐plantations (11.53 ± 2.72 (SE) leopards per 100 km2) and the forested habitats (4.67 ± 2.07 (SE) per 100 km2). Densities between tea plantations and protected areas (a subset of the forested habitat) were found to be comparable (9.19 ± 4.55 (SE) per 100 km2). The study posits that conservation‐compatible land use in landscapes shared with people can host a higher density of adaptable large felids like leopard than forested areas and that conservation planning needs to move beyond the dominant PA‐centric paradigm. The study also reinforces the importance of multi‐use landscapes for wildlife conservation, especially for an adaptable large felid.
The Impact of NO2 on Epithelial Barrier Integrity of a Primary Cell‐Based Air–Liquid Interface Model of the Nasal Respiratory Epithelium
Authors: Moratin Helena , Lang Josephine , Picker Magdalena‐Sophie , Rossi Angela , Wilhelm Christian , von Fournier Armin , Stöth Manuel , Goncalves Miguel , Kleinsasser Norbert , Hackenberg Stephan , Scherzad Agmal , Meyer Till Jasper
Published: November 2024

Nitrogen dioxide (NO2) is a pervasive gaseous air pollutant with well‐documented hazardous effects on health, necessitating precise toxicological characterization. While prior research has primarily focused on lower airway structures, the upper airways, serving as the first line of defense against airborne substances, remain understudied. This study aimed to investigate the functional effects of NO2 exposure alone or in combination with hypoxia as a secondary stimulus on nasal epithelium and elucidate its molecular mechanisms because hypoxia is considered a pathophysiological factor in the onset and persistence of chronic rhinosinusitis, a disease of the upper airways. Air–liquid interface cell cultures derived from primary nasal mucosa cells were utilized as an in vitro model, offering a high in vitro–in vivo correlation. Our findings demonstrate that NO2 exposure induces malfunction of the epithelial barrier, as evidenced by decreased transepithelial electrical resistance and increased fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)‐dextran permeability. mRNA expression analysis revealed a significant increase in IL‐6 and IL‐8 expressions following NO2. Reduced mRNA expression of the tight junction component occludin was identified as a structural correlate of the damaged epithelial barrier. Notably, hypoxic conditions alone did not alter epithelial barrier integrity. These findings provide information on the harmful effects of NO2 exposure on the human nasal epithelium, including compromised barrier integrity and induction of inflammatory responses. Overall, this study contributes to our understanding of pathophysiological mechanisms underlying also upper airway respiratory diseases associated with air pollution exposure and emphasizes the importance of mitigating NO2 emissions to safeguard respiratory health.
Quantitative Estimation of Iron and Fat Content in Prostate Cancer by Multiparametric MRI and Its Application in Optimizing D'Amico Score
Authors: Zhao Yunshu , Li Guangzheng , Tian Zhen , Zhu Mengying , Han Shuting , Jin Minmin , Huang Yuhua , Li Yonggang
Published: November 2024

Background

The risk of biochemical recurrence (BCR) in prostate cancer (PCa) is typically assessed using D'Amico score. However, iron and fat content in PCa are closely related to tumor cell proliferation and the risk of BCR may be estimated using multiparametric MRI (mpMRI).

Purpose

To noninvasively estimate fat and iron content in PCa and to evaluate their utility in enhancing D'Amico scores for predicting BCR in PCa patients.

Study Type

Prospective.

Subjects

Forty‐eight male patients in the BCR group (age 71.31 ± 5.74 years) and 27 male patients in the non‐BCR group (age 70.3 ± 6.04 years).

Field Strength/Sequence

3.0 T, Turbo‐spin echo T2‐weighted imaging, diffusion‐weighted imaging (DWI), dynamic contrast‐enhanced (DCE) imaging, Gradient echo Q‐Dixon sequence.

Assessment

The mean fat fraction (FF) and T2* values of lesions were extracted from the FF map and the T2* map. Additionally, prostate volume, mean apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) value, periprostatic fat thickness (PPFT), subcutaneous fat thickness (SFT), blood lipid content, pre‐ and post‐operative prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) values were collected.

Statistical Tests

Stepwise‐COX regression analysis was employed to identify the significant predictors of BCR, which led to the construction of an improvement‐adjusted (IA) model. Then the IA model as well as the D'Amico score were evaluated using C‐index and time‐dependent AUC, decision‐curve analysis, and Kaplan–Meier curve. P < 0.05 was statistically significant.

Results

Significant differences were observed in PSA, D'Amico score, ISUP grade, T2*, FF, and ADC values of the lesions in the BCR group compared with the non‐BCR group. Mean T2*, FF, and ADC values of the lesions were screened to construct the IA model incorporated into the D'Amico score (IA Model: C‐index = 0.749; AUC = 0.812; D'Amico score: C‐index = 0.672; AUC = 0.723).

Data Conclusion

This study demonstrated that mpMRI can quantitatively estimate fat and iron within PCa lesions. By integrating ADC, FF, and T2* values into the D'Amico score, the preoperative‐risk assessment for BCR can be improved.

Evidence Level

2

Technical Efficacy

Stage 2
Leaf Anatomical Adaptation and Chloroplast Ultrastructure Changes Upon Magnesium Foliar Application of Faba Bean (Vicia faba L.) Grown Under Drought Stress
Authors: Parisa Divya , Repnik Urska , Abdalla Muna Ali , Mühling Karl Hermann
Published: November 2024

Background

Drought stress (DS) impedes plant growth and development by impairing the uptake of nutrients, such as magnesium, which is central to many physiological processes, particularly photosynthesis. Leaf application was proposed to be an effective strategy to compensate for inadequate Mg2+ supply from the nutrient solution.

Aim

The present study is designed to investigate the role of Mg2+ leaf application in ameliorating leaf anatomy and chloroplast ultrastructure changes in faba beans grown under DS.

Methods

Hydroponically grown plants were subjected to DS under various levels of Mg2+, that is, sufficient (0.5 mM), deficient (0 mM), and leaf‐application (250 mM). Light and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) were conducted to examine leaf anatomy and ultrastructural changes.

Results

Mg2+ deficiency alone and under DS significantly affected plant biomass and photosynthesis. Additionally, sucrose concentration, oxidative stress, and lipid peroxidation were increased. Accordingly, the excessive deposition of photoassimilates in source organs due to the inhibition of phloem loading results in a disruption of the thylakoid structures leading to chloroplast damage. In the current study leaf application of Mg2+ partially ameliorated physiological functions, most notably chlorophyll concentration, photosynthesis and transpiration rate, plant biomass, and preservation of ultrastructure of the chloroplast.

Conclusion

Although the Mg application via roots enhanced drought tolerance, compared to Mg2+ leaf application. However, Mg2+ leaf application was proven to be an efficient strategy in mitigating DS in field trials. Therefore, Mg2+ foliar application should be prioritized for further investigation under relevant environmental stress conditions.
Protective effects of Bacillus velezensis on texture, physicochemical properties, and lipid oxidation of grass carp fillets during repeated freeze–thaw cycles
Authors: Gao Yanyan , Zhu Wenwu , Lou Xiangdi , Zhou Qiang , Tian Tong , Gong Weitao , Xiong Jianhua
Published: November 2024

Background

Probiotics have excellent antioxidant and antibacterial effects and are also considered to be promising natural biological preservatives. This study examined the freeze–thaw stability of the antioxidant and antibacterial activity of probiotic Bacillus velezensis PJP10, and evaluated the effect of different concentrations of PJP10 (106, 107, and 108 CFU mL−1) on microbial growth, textural characteristics, physicochemical properties, and lipid oxidation of grass carp fillets during repeated freeze–thaw cycles.

Results

Freeze–thaw cycles had little effect on the antioxidant and antibacterial stability of PJP10. Treatment with the PJP10 strain slowed effectively the increase in Aeromonas spp. counts (ASC), pH, total volatile basal nitrogen (TVB‐N), and thiobarbituric acid (TBA) values of the freeze–thaw fish fillets. It maintained the textural quality of fillets, inhibiting the reduction of hardness, springiness, gumminess, cohesiveness, chewiness, and resilience values, and reduced lipid oxidation, as evidenced by decreased carbonyl values and conjugated diene values after multiple freeze–thaw cycles.

Conclusion

Probiotic B. velezensis PJP10 had protective effects on microbiological, textural, and physicochemical properties, and lipid oxidation of grass carp fillets during repeated freeze–thaw storage, suggesting a potential application of this strain in the freeze–thaw preservation of freshwater fish. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
A Randomized Pilot Trial of Virtual Reality Surgical Planning for Head and Neck Oncologic Resection
Authors: Nunes Kathryn L. , Jegede Victor , Mann Derek S. , Llerena Pablo , Wu Richard , Estephan Leonard , Kumar Ayan , Siddiqui Sana , Banoub Raphael , Keith Scott W. , Tuluc Madalina , Thal Arielle G. , Goldman Richard , Mady Leila J. , Cognetti David M. , Luginbuhl Adam J. , Topf Michael C. , Curry Joseph M.
Published: November 2024

Objective

Application of virtual reality (VR) for surgical planning may improve clinical outcomes for head and neck cancer (HNC) resection. There is a lack of randomized trials and meaningful metrics to assess such technological applications. Our objective was to evaluate the feasibility of a VR protocol for oncologic surgical planning and assess the impact on surgical outcomes.

Methods

A randomized controlled trial utilizing a VR Case Enhancement Protocol (VRCEP) versus standard of care (SOC) surgical planning was conducted. The primary endpoint was feasibility, defined as >80% successful VRCEPs. Metrics included surgeon task‐load burden (TLB) using the NASA Task‐Load Index and “margin events,” defined as "the need for defect‐driven margins, positive frozen margins, and/or positive final margins." Margin events were used to calculate a margin event score (MES) per case and margin event rate (MER) per cohort.

Results

Thirty‐four patients were included in the final analysis (17 VRCEP, 17 SOC) with 94.4% of eligible VRCEP cases completed (17/18). Surgeon TLB was unchanged with VRCEP. Cases undergoing VRCEP were associated with a lower mean MES (0.27 vs. 0.94, p = 0.014) and MER (11.6% vs. 35.6%, p = 0.0041). VRCEP was associated with decreased defect‐driven margins (10% vs. 53.3%, p = 0.032). Although not statistically significant, positive frozen and final margin rates were lower in VRCEP.

Conclusion

Completion of the VRCEP was feasible with no significant increase in surgeon TLB appreciated. VRCEP yielded fewer MEs. Further investigation into the benefit of VR in HNC resection is warranted. Margin events may represent useful metrics for assessing novel surgical technologies.

Level of Evidence

2 Laryngoscope, 135:1090–1097, 2025
EPI proton resonant frequency temperature mapping at 0.5T in the brain: Comparison to single‐echo gradient recalled echo
Authors: Martinez Diego F. , Wiens Curtis N. , Harris Chad T. , Handler William B. , Chronik Blaine A.
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Evaluate the use of both single‐echo gradient recalled echo (SE‐GRE) and EPI approaches to creating temperature maps on a mid‐field head‐only scanner, both in vivo and on a tissue mimicking gel.

Methods

Three 2D protocols were investigated (an SE‐GRE, single‐shot EPI, and an averaged single‐shot EPI). The protocols used either a gradient recalled acquisition or an echo planar acquisition, with EPI parameters optimized for the longer at lower field‐strengths. Phantom experiments were conducted to evaluate temperature tracking while cooling, comparing protocol to measurements from an optical fiber thermometer. Studies were performed on a 0.5T head only MR scanner. Temperature stability maps were produced in vivo for the various protocols to evaluate precision.

Results

The use of an EPI protocol for thermometry improved temperature precision in a temperature control phantom and provided an 18% improvement in temperature measurement precision in vivo. Temperature tracking using a fast (<2 s) update rate EPI thermometry sequence provided a similar precision to the slower SE‐GRE protocol.

Conclusion

While SE‐GRE PRF thermometry shows good performance, EPI methods offer improved tracking precision or update rate, making them a better option for thermometry in the brain at mid‐field.
Mechanical properties and vibration characteristics of multiaxial carbon/glass hybrid fiber composites
Authors: Jiang Xin , Wang Ziyu , Jiang Yiming , Zhao Ke , Gao Mingze , Ren Peiyong , Sun Jiayi , Wang Guoyu
Published: November 2024

In this paper, the mechanical properties and vibration characteristics of Carbon‐Glass Hybrid Fiber Composites (CGHFC) are experimentally investigated with varying axial directions and blending ratios. The experimental results demonstrate a significant increase in the tensile strength of the CGHFC with an increasing content of carbon fibers. The biaxially CGHFC exhibits a maximum static tensile strength of 413.27 MPa in the 0° direction and 466.33 MPa in the 90° direction, surpassing both the quadratic and uniaxial directions. Notably, compared to biaxially oriented glass fiber material, the tensile strength of CGHFC is enhanced by 44.36%, thereby significantly improving its overall performance, making them particularly suitable for blade structures subjected to simultaneous tensile and vibratory loads. By optimizing the fiber orientation and blend ratio, the CGHFC provides good vibration control and fatigue resistance while ensuring high strength, thus maximizing the overall performance and service life of the blades. The results of this paper provide important data and theoretical support for the selection and design of wind turbine blade materials and help to promote the development of composite materials in wind turbine blade structure and design.

Highlights

CGHFCs show enhanced tensile strength with more carbon fibers.

Biaxial CGHFCs have max tensile strength at 0° and 90° directions.

CGHFCs' strength improves by 44.36% over glass fiber materials.

Optimized CGHFCs offer superior vibration control and fatigue resistance.

Research supports wind turbine blade material innovation.
Growth Phenomena and Bandgap Shift in Melt‐Grown β‐(InxGa1−x)2O3 Alloys
Authors: Dutton Benjamin L. , Remple Cassandra , Sakaguchi Nathan T. , Balog Andrew , Alem Nasim , Varley Joel B. , Voss Lars F. , McCluskey Matthew D. , McCloy John S.
Published: November 2024

β‐Ga2O3 is an emerging ultra‐wide bandgap semiconductor with great promise for power electronics and optoelectronics. Alloys in the In2O3‐Ga2O3 system are interesting for optoelectronic applications, particularly where bandgap tuning is desirable. Herein, β‐(InxGa1–x)2O3 alloys with target compositions x = 0.025 or 0.10 are grown from the melt using the Czochralski and vertical gradient freeze techniques. Growth with 10 mol% In yields only small, needle‐like crystals, while 2.5 mol% In allows growth of centimeter‐sized single crystals. A substantial degree of indium segregation is unveiled by spatial measurements of lattice parameters and the bandgap. The bandgap decreases by a maximum of 0.28 eV in the case of the highest In content crystals. Z‐contrast transmission electron microscopy confirms a solely octahedral coordination of In in the β‐Ga2O3 lattice. With indium concentrations higher than 2.5 mol%, samples contain micron‐scale voids that impart a dark coloration. All measured crystals are electrically conductive, with carrier concentrations varying 1016–1017 cm−3 depending upon the location of the sample in the growth. Lastly, a unique luminescence with unknown origin centered around 2.0 eV is revealed by photoluminescence spectroscopy.
Comparing the roles of secondary schools and universities in the formation of British cabinet ministers, 1922–2022
Authors: Hogan John , Feeney Sharon
Published: November 2024

The role played by the education system in the creation and reproduction of governing elites, and its countervailing potential to create a more meritocratic and egalitarian society, has been a topic of enduring concern. However, these debates have been rendered opaque by an inability to directly compare elite formation systems both within and between countries. To resolve this problem, we employ elite formation quantitative indices to compare the roles of the secondary school and higher education systems, of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, in the formation of its political elite—cabinet ministers—between 1922 and 2022. Our findings show that the universities educating cabinet ministers have been more elite and influential than the secondary schools, but not more exclusive. Additionally, while only a small number of universities and schools supplied more than one cabinet minister over the century, a very small number of universities and schools supplied a great many.
Multifunctional Applications of Gd‐Doped ZnO Nanoparticles Prepared Easily by the Coprecipitation Method
Authors: Hareeshanaik S. , Prabhakara M. C. , Bhojya Naik H. S. , Vishnu G. , Viswanath R. , Adarshgowda N.
Published: November 2024

The present work involves the preparation of pure ZnO and gadolinium‐doped ZnO nanoparticles with the general formula GdxZn1−xO (X = 0–0.05) by wet chemical coprecipitation technique. XRD outcomes confirmed that these nanoparticles exhibited a hexagonal wurtzite structure of zinc oxide lacking any secondary phase. The calculated average crystallite size declined from 33 to 28 nm. Through SEM analysis, the shape and morphology of the sample were determined, which showed nanoflakes‐like structures, and EDS analysis confirmed the elemental composition of Gd‐doped ZnO nanoparticles. UV–vis DRS spectral studies indicate good optical capabilities with a decline in the bandgap from 3.4 to 2.6 eV with an incline in doping concentration. Photoluminescence studies exhibited a green emission peak at 378 nm. Additionally, photodegradation of these nanoparticles was assessed through degradation of MB dye, which showed 94% of dye degradation. Synthesized nanoparticles show good electrochemical performance in CV studies. Pure ZnO and Gd‐ZnO were examined against Gram‐positive Enterococcus faecalis and Gram‐negative Escherichia coli bacteria, and it was initiated that the zone of inhibition of antibacterial activity improved with gadolinium doping compared to the pure ZnO nanoparticles.
A New Wax Gourd (Benincasa hispida (Thunb.) Cogn.)‐Assisted Green Synthesis Method of Metal Oxides (TiO2, MgO)
Authors: Yan Shuting , Zhao Weiwei , Wang Yujie , Ma Rong , Zhao Weixing , Huang Zhuonan , Li Huiqin , Dou Shumei
Published: November 2024

In the reaction environment of wax gourd extract, titanium dioxide (TiO2) and magnesium oxide (MgO) were synthesized by microemulsion method. Under atmospheric pressure, the optimum conditions for preparing TiO2 and MgO nanoparticles were investigated at different reaction temperatures and time. The obtained optimal reaction conditions are as follows: when the amount of TiCl3 solution was 70 µL, the mass ratio of wax gourd extract to water was 1:2, the reaction time was 60 min, and the reaction temperature was 35 °C, rod‐like TiO2 particles with the best dispersion and crystallinity were obtained. When the amount of MgCl2 solution was 10 mL, the amount of wax gourd extract was 40 mL, the reaction time was 120 min, and the reaction temperature was 70 °C, the prepared MgO particles exhibited a spindle shape with the best dispersion and crystallinity. Wax gourd‐assisted synthesis of TiO2 and MgO provides not only a new synthesis idea for the preparation of metal oxides, but also a green environmental protection system, which conforms to the concept of sustainable development.
Phytic Acid Functionalized Hierarchical Porous Metal‐Organic Framework Microspheres for Efficient Extraction of Uranium from Seawater
Authors: Tuo Kai , Li Jin , Li Yi , Liang Chuyao , Shao Cuicui , Hou Weifeng , Fan Congbin , Li Zhijian , Pu Shouzhi , Chen Zhao , Deng Yonghui
Published: November 2024

Uranium is a critical resource in the development of nuclear energy, and its extraction from natural seawater has been identified as a potential solution to address uranium resource shortages. In this study, hierarchical meso‐/micro‐ porous metal‐organic framework functionalized with phytic acid (PA) microspheres (denoted H‐UiO‐66‐PA) are rationally synthesized for efficient uranium extraction. This unique design allowed for a large adsorption capacity and fast adsorption kinetics, making it a promising material for uranium extraction. Due to the hierarchically porous structure, H‐UiO‐66‐NH2 materials not only provide more sites for grafting PA, and thus enhance the adsorption capacity, but also facilitate the rapid diffusion of uranyl ions which can quickly and effectively access the interior of the H‐UiO‐66‐PA adsorbent. Therefore, the obtained H‐UiO‐66‐PA can achieve an impressive absorption efficiency of 6.76 mg g−1 in actual seawater within 15 days. Meanwhile, the H‐UiO‐66‐PA possesses a good adsorption capacity for uranyl ions in the five adsorption/desorption cycles. This work proposes a feasible strategy for constructing functional hierarchical porous MOFs for uranium removal.
EV Charging Prediction in Residential Area Based on SE‐GRU‐MA Model Consider Multi‐Source Data Feature Mining
Authors: Zhang Wenhua , Chen Chun , Zhou Huahao , Ni Yajia , Qi Ze , Yang Shenglan , Xu Maosheng , Li Jinyang
Published: November 2024

The number of electric vehicle (EV) in residential areas is growing rapidly, resulting in large‐scale charging of EVs connected to the distribution network. This poses a challenge to the safe and stable operation of the distribution network. In order to cope with this challenge, it is crucial to achieve accurate EV charging load prediction. However, current researches on EV charging load prediction suffer from insufficient data feature mining and lower prediction accuracy. To address this issue, this paper proposes a SE‐GRU‐MA residential EV charging load prediction method that incorporates multi‐source data feature mining. The proposed method employs a multi‐source data feature mining approach based on Pearson correlation analysis, which enhances the training efficiency and prediction accuracy of the prediction model. Additionally, this study develops a prediction model based on SE‐GRU‐MA hybrid network to achieve accurate EV charging load prediction. Simulation cases on actual history data validate that the proposed feature mining method can effectively promote prediction accuracy, and proposed SE‐GRU‐MA prediction model exhibits superior prediction capability in comparison to existing models. © 2024 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan and Wiley Periodicals LLC.
New Directions in Digitalisation: An Introduction
Authors: Engel Annegret , Groussot Xavier
Published: November 2024

This chapter provides a brief overview of the aims of this book, how it is structured and the various chapters to be found therein. It summarises the main arguments made by the contributing experts, who come from both EU competition law as well fundamental rights backgrounds. It further provides an analysis of the new directions in digitalisation and their implications for future research.
Results of a Randomized Wait-List Controlled Trial of CAYA: A Nurse Case Management HIV Prevention Intervention for Youth Experiencing Homelessness
Authors: Maria Diane Santa , Nyamathi Adeline , Lightfoot Marguerita , Paul Mary , Quadri Yasmeen , Padhye Nikhil , Businelle Michael , Fernandez-Sanchez Higinio , Jones Jennifer Torres
Published: November 2024

Youth experiencing homelessness (YEH) face challenges that increase their susceptibility to HIV/STIs. Nurse case management is effective in managing the complex needs of populations experiencing homelessness and reducing HIV risk. A randomized wait-list control study conducted between September 2019 to May 2023 evaluated the CAYA “Come As You Are” intervention. This nurse-led HIV prevention for YEH aged 16–25 years focused on the uptake of HIV prevention methods: pre- and post-HIV exposure prophylaxis (PrEP, nPEP), HIV/STI testing and treatment, sober sex, and condom use. Secondarily, we examined intervention impact on housing stability. Descriptive statistics were calculated by study arm. Multiple imputation (m = 10) was used for missing values and intervention effects were estimated from Bayesian multilevel models with noninformative priors. Participants (N = 450) were 21.1 years old on average, 62% Black, 11% Hispanic, 11% White, and 10% other race and reported being homeless for an average of 3 years. An intervention effect was found for PrEP use, which showed a larger increase from baseline to first follow-up (OR = 3.27; 95% Cr.I.: 1.13 to 10.14). No intervention impact was found for nPEP use, HIV and STI cases, sober sex, or condom use. Sheltering arrangements improved from baseline to the first follow-up in both groups with increase in shelter stability (OR = 3.85; 95% Cr.I.: 1.61 to 10.30) and decreased shelter transiency (OR = 0.29; 95% Cr.I.: 0.14 to 0.60). This study demonstrates that a personalized, nurse-led HIV prevention approach increased uptake of some but not all HIV prevention strategies among YEH.

Clinical Trial Registration number

NCT03910218.
Parasitism by Aleiodes ceres Shimbori, 2023 (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) of three species of Spodoptera Guenée, 1852: effects of preferential instar and host diet
Authors: dos Santos Jailma Rodrigues , Takahashi Tamara Akemi , Palma Gabriel Rodrigues , de Andrade Moral Rafael , Parra José Roberto Postali
Published: November 2024

A recently discovered koinobiont parasitoid species, Aleiodes ceres Shimbori, 2023, proved to be a promising biological control agent for larvae of Spodoptera cosmioides (Walker, 1858), S. eridania (Stoll, 1782), and S. frugiperda (J.E. Smith, 1797), all well-known pests that cause critical damage to soybean and corn crops. This study investigated the potential of parasitism by A. ceres in these three species, including different instars (1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th instar) and diets (artificial and natural). Parasitism was highest when it occurs in the second instar for all three host species. The egg-to-pupa period of A. ceres was shorter in the second and third instars in relation to the first instar. Parasitism was substantially enhanced by the use of natural diets (soybean and corn leaves) compared with the artificial diet in all three species of the Spodoptera complex, suggesting a possible allelochemical interaction. Based on the results from the three host species, the potential for control of Spodoptera spp. by A. ceres was evident.
Researcher identities and values in the impact agenda: the case of artificial intelligence academics
Authors: Cohen Eliel , Williams Kate , Grant Jonathan
Published: November 2024

A major shift in the research sector has been the increased expectation from policymakers and funders that academic research should yield some socioeconomic benefits or ‘impacts’ rather than merely new knowledge. In this paper, we explore the role that impact has in academics’ motivations and values and how impact is being integrated into academics’ core functions of research and education. We do this through in-depth interviews (n = 60) with scientists who work on the development or application of artificial intelligence (AI), broadly defined. This AI’s focus situates our participants within a strategically important, high-priority area of research for all three national contexts included in our study—Australia, the UK and the USA. Our findings reveal that the impact mission has become central to understanding the motivations and values of academics, but unevenly. We identify divergence between those who work on AI from a foundational computer science perspective and those who develop and apply AI within other scientific domains. The two groups have different understandings of key notions such as ‘impact’ and ‘applied research’, as well as different ways of integrating the impact agenda into their research and education activities. The study highlights the importance of flexible approaches to research policy and governance that are based on a deeper understanding of what motivates researchers, and that take into account academics’ educational role. Greater holistic understanding of how academic identities and practices are accommodating the impact agenda is essential to maximise synergy across activities and avoid unintended consequences.
Articulating Lynching in India
Authors: Vasudeva-Barkdull Feeza
Published: November 2024

Lynching became a popular part of the lexicon in India during the last decade, and the word is used to communicate incidents where a group of people takes justice into their own hands. Considering the violent nature of lynching, it became a topic of intense debate. Yet, there is a lack of definitional clarity, and the ambit of lynching has been stretched to signify various forms of violence. Even the modest number of scholarly research projects takes the term “lynching” for granted. Considering the ambiguity surrounding it, this study analyzes and articulates the phenomena of lynchings in India, particularly during the period 2000–2021 while undertaking a genealogical study to illustrate the history, and the meaning of the word and how it has evolved over the years alongside the associated phenomena. To do so is to take away the misleading objectivity the word can sometimes generate. Following the conceptualization of lynchings and its changing expression in different societies, particularly the United States of America, the article highlights in what ways the definition and content of lynching have become more symbolically charged and the reasons for the change as well as what made lynching an extraordinary form of violence.
Myokine BDNF highly expressed in Type I fibers inhibits the differentiation of myotubes into Type II fibers
Authors: Hu Teng , Furuichi Yasuro , Manabe Yasuko , Yamada Kenichiro , Katakura Kengo , Aoki Yuna , Tang Kun , Sakai Takaomi , Fujii Nobuharu L.
Published: November 2024

Background

Myofibers are broadly classified as slow-twitch (Type I) and fast-twitch (Type II) fibers. These two types of myofibers coexist within the same skeletal muscle tissue, determining the contractile and metabolic properties of skeletal muscle tissue by fiber type distribution.

Methods and results

By examining each fiber type separately, we confirmed that brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) gene is highly expressed in Type I fibers. When exposed to BDNF, primary myotubes exhibited reduced expression of Myosin Heavy Chain (MyHC) II, a marker protein characteristic of Type II fibers. BDNF overexpression in regenerating muscle tissue led to a decrease in the distribution of Type IIA fibers.

Conclusions

We suggest that BDNF highly expressed in Type I fibers downregulates MyHC II expression in myotubes, eventually inhibiting Type IIA fiber generation.
Navigating the First Years: Newly Qualified Teachers’ Experiences with Professional Learning Communities
Authors: Mabunda Pinkie Louisa , McKay Veronica Irene
Published: November 2024

Drawing on a mixed-methods evaluation of the New Teacher Induction Programme of the South African Department of Basic Education, this paper examines the role of Professional Learning Communities in enabling the transition of newly qualified teachers (NQTs) into their professional roles in schools. The article focuses on one of the four components of the induction programme, namely, the participation of NQTs in Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) and examines the experiences of newly qualified teachers as members of their respective professional learning communities. It begins by examining the range of typical early career challenges and, thereafter, shows how the social capital fostered through their collaboration in communities enables to overcome a range of challenges they face. As the results of the study show, PLCs provide safe spaces where new teachers experiment, share experiences and engage in collective reflection and problem-solving. The new teachers reported a range of professional and personal benefits, including their professional growth, expanded peer networks, and a stronger sense of belonging. Moreover, their responses show how their participation in PLCs contributes to developing their self- and collective efficacy, increasing their resilience, and enabling their transition into the teaching profession. As a participatory action research study, the paper shows the dual benefits of the PLCs – both in supporting the personal and professional development of novice teachers and in informing the development of broader educational policy. The results of the study led to the expansion of the New Teacher Induction Programme and the national adoption of PLCs – illustrating how teacher experiences can inform policy in bringing about meaningful change.
We are not the problem, cars are: effect of different human activities in an urban area on opossums health and population size
Authors: Glebskiy Yury , Parra-Campos Daniela Aimee , Cano-Santana Zenon
Published: November 2024

Understanding the health of urban animals is key for preventing and controlling zoonotic diseases. To achieve this goal, it’s necessary to understand what factors could have an impact on those animals’ health. Therefore, the aim of this article is to compare some health characteristics of opossums (Didelphis virginiana) in urban environments with and without human presence. For this, we trapped opossums in two urbanized areas: one dominated by buildings and one by roads and parking lots (plus two control locations in natural areas). During two periods: normal activities and under lockdown due to COVID-19 conditions (when the presence of people was minimal). We found that in the building area, human presence has almost no effect on the opossums’ health (with only minor changes in erythrocyte counts and tar coverage); however, in the parking lot, the opossum population dropped drastically because of human activities (use of vehicles). This suggests that human presence is not harmful for those animals, but cars are. Therefore, the use of vehicles has a negative impact on opossums’ health and could increase the spreading of zoonotic diseases.