bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Self‐gated cine phase‐contrast balanced SSFP flow quantification at 0.55 T
Authors: McGrath Charles , Bieri Oliver , Kozerke Sebastian , Bauman Grzegorz
Published: September 2023

Purpose

To implement cine phase‐contrast balanced SSFP (PC‐bSSFP) for low‐field 0.55T cardiac MRI by exploiting the intrinsic flow sensitivity of the bSSFP slice‐select gradient and the in‐plane phase‐cancelation properties of radial trajectories, enabling self‐gated and referenceless PC‐bSSFP flow quantification at 0.55 T.

Methods

A free‐running, tiny golden‐angle radial PC‐bSSFP approach was implemented on 0.55T and 1.5T systems. Cardiac and respiratory self‐gating was incorporated to enable electrocardiogram‐free scanning during breath‐hold and free‐breathing. By exploiting the intrinsic in‐plane phase‐cancelation properties of radial acquisitions and background phase fitting, referenceless single‐point PC‐bSSFP was realized. In vivo data were acquired in the ascending aorta of healthy subjects at 0.55 T and 1.5 T during breath‐hold and free‐breathing. Flow data, SNR, and velocity‐to‐noise ratio were compared relative to data obtained with phase‐contrast spoiled gradient‐echo variants.

Results

Velocities acquired with PC‐bSSFP compared well with data from phase‐contrast spoiled gradient‐echo (RMSEv = 5.8 cm/s). PC‐bSSFP at 0.55 T resulted in high‐quality cine magnitude images and phase maps with sufficient SNR and velocity‐to‐noise ratio. Breath‐hold and free‐breathing PC‐bSSFP performed very similarly, with comparable flow quantification (RMSEv = 5.7 cm/s). Referenceless single‐point PC‐bSSFP results agreed well with two‐point PC‐bSSFP (−1.8 ± 5.2 cm/s) while reducing scan times 2‐fold.

Conclusion

PC‐bSSFP is feasible on low‐field 0.55T systems, producing high‐quality cine images while permitting simultaneous aortic flow measurements during breath‐hold and free‐breathing and without the need for electrocardiogram gating.
Ectopic lipid deposition in muscle and liver, quantified by proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy
Authors: Buitinga Mijke , Veeraiah Pandichelvam , Haans Florian , Schrauwen‐Hinderling Vera B.
Published: September 2023

Advances in the development of noninvasive imaging techniques have spurred investigations into ectopic lipid deposition in the liver and muscle and its implications in the development of metabolic diseases such as type 2 diabetes. Computed tomography and ultrasound have been applied in the past, though magnetic resonance‐based methods are currently considered the gold standard as they allow more accurate quantitative detection of ectopic lipid stores. This review focuses on methodological considerations of magnetic resonance‐based methods to image hepatic and muscle fat fractions, and it emphasizes anatomical and morphological aspects and how these may influence data acquisition, analysis, and interpretation.
Trends in Response Rate to US News & World Report Best Hospitals Reputation Survey, 2015 to 2023
Authors: Xu Lucy J. , Rathi Vinay K. , Johns Michael M. , Agarwala Aalok V. , Varvares Mark A. , Naunheim Matthew R.
Published: September 2023

Reputation score has been shown to be the strongest predictor of ranking in the US News & World Reports (USNWR) Best Hospitals report. However, the extent to which physicians participate in the underlying USNWR reputation survey is not well‐characterized. We conducted a retrospective cross‐sectional study of USNWR public methodology reports from 2015 to 2023 to characterize trends in physician response rates by specialty, region, and Doximity membership. Overall response rates declined between 2015 (24.0%) and 2023 (8.9%). In 2023, rates ranged from 4.7% (psychiatry) to 13.9% (otolaryngology). Otolaryngology had the highest response rate among all specialties between 2017 and 2023. Within otolaryngology, both response rates (25.0% to 13.9%) and count (2106 to 1724 physicians) declined between 2015 and 2023. Among Doximity members, response rates were consistently higher for otolaryngologists in the Northeast and Midwest compared to other regions. Though hospital rankings often influence where patients seek care, our findings suggest USNWR reputation scores may not be reliable or representative.
Finding the Potholes in Academic Career Pathways for Underrepresented Groups in Otolaryngology
Authors: Russel Sarah M. , Farzal Zainab , Ebert Charles , Buckmire Robert , DeMason Christine , Shah Rupali N , Frank‐Ito Dennis O.
Published: September 2023

Objective

To assess inequities in representation among ranks and odds of promotion by race in academic otolaryngology.

Study Design

Cross‐sectional study.

Setting

US academic medical centers.

Methods

Demographic data was collected for medical students, residents, and faculty in the Association of American Medical Colleges and Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education databases for the academic year 2020 to 2021. The rank equity index (REI) was used to make pairwise comparisons between ranks to determine groups' representation between levels. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) demonstrating the likelihood that an individual of a particular rank/race would advance in their academic career were determined.

Results

Representation comparing medical students with full professors for black, Latine, and Asian otolaryngologists was below parity (REI: 0.27, 0.85, 0.85, respectively). Black (OR: 0.20, CI: 0.15, 0.26), Latine (OR: 0.61, CI: 0.50, 0.75), and Asian (OR: 0.62, CI: 0.55, 0.71) medical students all faced lower odds of becoming otolaryngology residents compared to their white counterparts. Similar findings occurred when comparing resident and assistant professor representation. American Indian/Alaskan Native (AIAN) and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander (NHPI) REIs and ORs could not be assessed as only 1 self‐reported AIAN and no NHPI faculty are present in the studied data.

Conclusion

Underrepresented in Medicine and Asian physicians faced worsening representation at each rung of the academic otolaryngology ladder. The greatest losses occurred when medical students transitioned to residents and residents transitioned to assistant professors. AIAN and NH faculty were absent in otolaryngology, indicating vital targets for recruitment efforts.
Interaction of defects in disordered materials – Insights from a nonlinear decomposition of the nonaffine displacement field
Authors: Focks Tobias , Bamer Franz , Wu Zhao , Markert Bernd , Stamm Benjamin
Published: September 2023

In this paper, we link the unique mechanical properties to structural aspects using a splitting method in order to disentangle nonlinear interactions of Stone–Wales defects as fundamental perturbations in a crystalline environment. We investigate the spatial features of the displacement field achieved by this splitting method and couple it to macroscopic material properties. The nonlinear interaction broadens the understanding of material failure at the onset of disorder and may also play a role in the emergence of the Boson peak.
Efficient thermomechanically coupled FE‐FFT‐based multiscale simulation of polycrystals
Authors: Gierden Christian , Schmidt Annika , Waimann Johanna , Svendsen Bob , Reese Stefanie
Published: September 2023

In general, the overall macroscopic material behavior of any structural component is directly dependent on its underlying microstructure. For metal components, the associated microstructure is given in terms of a polycrystal. To enable the simulation of the related microstructural and overall elasto‐viscoplastic material behavior, a two‐scale simulation approach can be used. In this context, we use a FE‐FFT‐based two‐scale method, which is an efficient alternative to the classical FE2 method for the simulation of periodic microstructures. In addition, we consider a thermomechanically coupled framework to account for both thermal and mechanical loads. Finally, we incorporate a model order reduction technique based on a coarsely discretized microstructure to develop an efficient two‐scale simulation technique. As a demonstration of the feasibility of the proposed simulation framework, a numerical example will be investigated.
Exploring how general education teachers use school‐based consultation
Authors: DeFouw Emily R. , Owens Julie S. , Pastrana Rivera Freddie A. , Lee Mary , Evans Steven W.
Published: September 2023

Understanding general education teachers' experiences with and goals for school‐based consultation is warranted to address class‐wide and individual student concerns. In a sample of 66 general education teachers, we described their experiences with (1) informal consultation with colleagues, (2) school team meeting consultation, and (3) ongoing, structured consultation. Results indicated teachers received consultation most often for challenging individual student behavior and individual student academics (rather than for class‐wide behavior management or academic instruction) and received consultation from teachers and administrators (rather than from school psychologists or behavioral consultants). Teachers reported higher satisfaction during informal consultations than in team meetings. When teachers received ongoing, structured consultation, most reported three or more sessions with one to two observations. Implications for assessing and improving school‐based teacher consultation are discussed.
Extreme environments as sources of fungal endophytes mitigating climate change impacts on crops in Mediterranean‐type ecosystems
Authors: Ballesteros Gabriel I. , Newsham Kevin K. , Acuña‐Rodríguez Ian S. , Atala Cristian , Torres‐Díaz Cristian , Molina‐Montenegro Marco A.
Published: September 2023

Societal Impact Statement

Climate change is predicted to increase drought and soil salinity in Mediterranean‐type ecosystems (MTEs), posing a significant threat to global food security. Genetic modification of crops to counteract this threat is expensive and has not met with universal support, and alternatives are hence needed to enhance crop production in MTEs. Here, fungal endophytes from the Atacama Desert, High Andes and Antarctica inoculated onto three crops were found to alleviate the negative effects of drought and salinity on plant performance. The study concludes that extremophile endophytes might be used to enhance crop performance as the climate of MTEs changes over future decades.

Climate change will curtail the ability to provide sufficient food for our rapidly expanding population. Improvements to crop production in changing environments, particularly Mediterranean‐type ecosystems (MTEs), which are increasingly subjected to drought and salinisation, are hence urgently needed. Here, we explored the possibility that fungal endophytes from extreme environments can be used to enhance crop yield, survival and tolerance to environmental stresses.

Plants of lettuce, tomato and bell pepper were inoculated with up to six species of endophytic fungi isolated from the Atacama Desert, the High Andes and Antarctica. They were then exposed in the field for up to 120 days in each of three summers to current climatic conditions or to a future climate scenario simulating increased drought and soil salinisation.

Compared with uninoculated plants, the yield and survival of inoculated crops were increased by up to two‐fold under the future climate scenario. These effects were in part attributable to the improved water balance of inoculated crops exposed to drought and salinisation. The inocula also increased the concentrations of total phenols and proline in leaves and decreased lipid peroxidation when plants were subjected to increased aridity and salinity. A mixed inoculum of six endophytes from the extreme environments conferred the most beneficial effects on crop performance, with a commercially available inoculum having fewer positive effects on crops.

We conclude that the inoculation of crops with endophytes from extreme environments may be a viable solution to sustaining crop production in MTEs exposed to rapid climate change.
Combined Facile Synthesis, Purification, and Surface Functionalization Approach Yields Monodispersed Gold Nanorods for Drug Delivery Applications
Authors: Han Shunping , Al‐Jamal Khuloud T.
Published: September 2023

Synthesizing gold nanorods (AuNRs) by seed‐mediated growth method results in the presence of undesired size and shape particles by‐products occupying 10–90% of the population. In this study, AuNRs are synthesized by the seed‐mediated growth method using cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) as a surfactant. AuNRs with redshifted longitudinal localized surface plasmon resonance (LLSPR) peak, localized in the biological “transparency window” (650–1350 nm), are synthesized after optimizing seed solution, silver nitrate solution, and hydrochloric acid solution volumes, based on the published protocols. A two‐step purification method, dialysis followed by centrifugation, is applied to remove excess CTAB and collect LLSPR‐redshifted AuNRs with high rod purity (>90%). CTAB is subsequently exchanged with polyethylene glycol (PEG) to improve AuNRs biocompatibility. PEGylated AuNRs are confirmed innocuous to both SN4741 cells and B16F10 cells by the modified MTT assay and the modified lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) assay up to 1 nm and 24 h incubation. In this study, a combined facile synthesis, purification, and surface functionalization approach is proposed to obtain water‐dispersible monodispersed AuNRs for drug delivery applications.
Physiologically‐based pharmacokinetic modeling for investigating the effect of simeprevir on concomitant drugs and an endogenous biomarker of OATP1B
Authors: Nakayama Shinji , Toshimoto Kota , Yamazaki Shinji , Snoeys Jan , Sugiyama Yuichi
Published: September 2023

The orally available anti‐hepatitis C virus (HCV) drug simeprevir exhibits nonlinear pharmacokinetics at the clinical doses due to saturation of cytochrome P450 (CYP) 3A4 metabolism and organic anion transporting peptide (OATP) 1B mediated hepatic uptake. Additionally, simeprevir increases exposures of concomitant drugs by CYP3A4 and OATP1B inhibition. The objective of this study was to develop physiologically‐based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) models that could describe drug–drug interactions (DDIs) of simeprevir with concomitant drugs via CYP3A4 and OATP1B inhibition, and also to capture the effects on coproporphyrin‐I (CP‐I), an endogenous biomarker of OATP1B. PBPK modeling estimated unbound simeprevir inhibitory constant (Ki) of 2.89 μM against CYP3A4 in the DDI results between simeprevir and midazolam in healthy volunteers. Then, we analyzed the DDIs between simeprevir and atorvastatin, a dual substrate of CYP3A4 and OATP1B, in healthy volunteers, and unbound Ki against OATP1B was estimated to be 0.00347 μM. Finally, we analyzed the increase in the blood level of CP‐I by simeprevir to verify the Ki,OATP1B. Because CP‐I was measured in subjects with HCV with various hepatic fibrosis state, Monte Carlo simulation was performed to involve the decreases in expression levels of hepatic CYP3A4 and OATP1B and their interindividual variabilities. The PBPK modeling coupled with Monte Carlo simulation using the Ki,OATP1B value obtained from atorvastatin study reasonably recovered the observed relationship between CP‐I and simeprevir blood levels. In conclusion, the simeprevir PBPK model developed in this study can quantitatively describe the increase in exposures of concomitant drugs and an endogenous biomarker via inhibition of CYP3A4 and OATP1B.
COVID‐19 booster dose vaccination of healthcare workers in Qatar: A web‐based cross‐sectional survey
Authors: Pattabi Amudha , Nazarene Ananth , Varghese Sejo , Nashwan Abdulqadir , Philip Reena , Munuswamy Ramya , Singh Kalpana
Published: September 2023

Background

Vaccines are an important public health measure and effective strategy to protect the population from COVID‐19. Front‐line healthcare personnel should receive priority in vaccination programs. However, the reported hesitancy among healthcare workers (HCWs) toward the COVID‐19 vaccines cannot be ignored. It widely influences the level of vaccine hesitancy in the general population. Hesitancy, fear, and anxiety were documented in first and second rounds of COVID‐19 vaccination. This study assessed the acceptance of COVID‐19 booster doses among the HCWs in Qatar.

Methods

A web‐based cross‐sectional online survey was conducted using the 7C Vaccine Readiness Scale to evaluate the preparedness of the HCWs to receive COVID‐19 vaccines. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to identify factors associated with preparedness for vaccination.

Results

A total of 382 participants completed the survey. Allied health professionals scored the least on the readiness score (−7.0 ± 9.9) compared to the physicians (3.1 ± 7.2) and nurses (3.0 ± 7.8). Physicians scored higher on confidence (58.8%), calculation (64.7%), and complacency (60.8%). Nurses scored higher on constraints (51.6%), collective responsibility (62.7%), and compliance (39.1%), and allied health professionals scored higher on (67.9%) conspiracy. There was a significant association between readiness score and not being infected with COVID‐19, post‐vaccine symptom experience, and hesitancy for the initial two doses.

Conclusion

This study reports higher complacency and constraints with the perception of lower risks and the lack of interest in taking collective responsibility among the HCWs. Addressing vaccine hesitancy among them is critical to ensure successful vaccination campaigns and promote community safety during future pandemics.
Semiparametric multivariate joint model for skewed‐longitudinal and survival data: A Bayesian approach
Authors: Chen Jiaqing , Huang Yangxin , Wang Qing
Published: September 2023

Joint models and statistical inference for longitudinal and survival data have been an active area of statistical research and have mostly coupled a longitudinal biomarker‐based mixed‐effects model with normal distribution and an event time‐based survival model. In practice, however, the following issues may standout: (i) Normality of model error in longitudinal models is a routine assumption, but it may be unrealistically violating data features of subject variations. (ii) Data collected are often featured by the mixed types of multiple longitudinal outcomes which are significantly correlated, ignoring their correlation may lead to biased estimation. Additionally, a parametric model specification may be inflexible to capture the complicated patterns of longitudinal data. (iii) Missing observations in the longitudinal data are often encountered; the missing measures are likely to be informative (nonignorable) and ignoring this phenomenon may result in inaccurate inference. Multilevel item response theory (MLIRT) models have been increasingly used to analyze the multiple longitudinal data of mixed types (ie, continuous and categorical) in clinical studies. In this article, we develop an MLIRT‐based semiparametric joint model with skew‐t distribution that consists of an extended MLIRT model for the mixed types of multiple longitudinal data and a Cox proportional hazards model, linked through random‐effects. A Bayesian approach is employed for joint modeling. Simulation studies are conducted to assess performance of the proposed models and method. A real example from primary biliary cirrhosis clinical study is analyzed to estimate parameters in the joint model and also evaluate sensitivity of parameter estimates for various plausible nonignorable missing data mechanisms.
Biomimetic Ion Channel Regulation for Temperature‐Pressure Decoupled Tactile Perception
Authors: Gao Naiwei , Huang Jiaoya , Chen Zhiwu , Liang Yegang , Zhang Li , Peng Zhengchun , Pan Caofeng
Published: September 2023

The perception of temperature and pressure of skin plays a vital role in joint movement, hand grasp, emotional expression, and self‐protection of human. Among many biomimetic materials, ionic gels are uniquely suited to simulate the function of skin due to its ionic transport mechanism. However, both the temperature and pressure sensing are heavily dependent on the changes in ionic conductivity, making it impossible to decouple the temperature and pressure signals. Here, a pressure‐insensitive and temperature‐modulated ion channel is designed by synergistic strategies for gel skeleton's compact packing and ultra‐thin structure, mimicking the function of the temperature ion channel in human skin. This ion‐confined gel can completely suppress the pressure response of the temperature sensing layer. Furthermore, a temperature‐pressure decoupled ionic sensor is fabricated and it is demonstrated that the ionic sensor can sense complex signals of temperature and pressure. This novel and effective approach has great potential to overcome one of the current barriers in developing ionic skin and extending its applications.
Intercalation of Metal into Transition Metal Dichalcogenides in Molten Salts
Authors: Gao Lin , Li Mian , Fan Qi , Liang Kun , Hu Binjie , Huang Qing
Published: September 2023

Van der Waals (vdW)‐layered materials have drawn tremendous interests due to their unique properties. Atom intercalation in the vdW gap of layered materials can tune their electronic structure and generate unexpected properties. Here a chemical‐scissor‐mediated method that enables metal intercalation into transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs) in molten salts is reported. By using this approach, various guest metal atoms (Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, and Ag) are intercalated into various TMDC hosts (such as TiS2, NbS2, TaS2, TiSe2, NbSe2, TaSe2, and Ti0.5V0.5S2). The structure of the intercalated compound and intercalation mechanism are investigated. The results indicate that the vdW gap and valence state of TMDCs can be modified through metal intercalation, and the intercalation behavior is dictated by the electron work function. The adjustable charge transfer and intercalation endow a channel for rapid mass transfer to enhance the electrochemical performances. Such a chemical‐scissor‐mediated intercalation provides an approach to tune the physical and chemical properties of TMDCs, which may open an avenue in functional application ranging from energy conversion to electronics.
Ausbau der A1 zwischen AS Köln‐Niehl und AK Leverkusen‐West
Authors: Müller Thomas , Grassl Hans , Karpa Markus , Reyer Dominic , Wrage Thomas
Published: September 2023

Die bestehende Rheinbrücke Leverkusen hält den seit den 1960er‐Jahren in erheblichem Maße gestiegenen Anforderungen aus dem Schwerverkehr nicht mehr Stand. Der dadurch notwendige Ersatzneubau der Rheinbrücke und die prognostizierten zukünftigen Verkehrsstärken erfordern den Ausbau des Streckenabschnitts der A1 zwischen der Anschlussstelle Köln‐Niehl und dem Autobahnkreuz Leverkusen‐West auf acht durchgängige Fahrstreifen. Erstmalig wird in Deutschland die Planung des Ersatzneubaus einer seilverspannten Brücke über den Rhein erforderlich. Der Ausbau und Ersatzneubau der neuen Rheinbrücke für künftig insgesamt zwölf Fahrstreifen unter bauzeitlicher Aufrechthaltung von sechs bestehenden Fahrstreifen steht im Zusammenhang mit dem Ausbau des ca. 4,55 km langen Autobahnabschnitts mit insgesamt 15 Brücken, Stützwänden, Beckenanlagen, Lärmschutzwänden und Verkehrszeichenbrücken. Für die Maßnahme erfolgt nahezu die gesamte Planung aus einer Hand, d. h. von einem Auftragnehmer. Lediglich die Vermessung und Landschaftsplanung werden dem Gesamtplaner auftraggeberseitig zur Verfügung gestellt. Eine besondere Herausforderung stellen der Ausbau der Autobahn und der Ersatzneubau der Ingenieurbauwerke innerhalb der gesicherten Deponie, der Altablagerung Dhünnaue, dar. Für den Eingriff in die Altablagerung sind wirksame Emissionsschutzmaßnahmen vorzusehen. Die Abdichtung der Altablagerung ist samt Entwässerungs‐ und Entlüftungssystem mit Anschluss an die neue Verkehrsanlage und Ingenieurbauwerke wiederherzustellen.
Effective width estimation of flanged reinforced concrete shear walls
Authors: Tabiee Mohammad , Abdoos Hatef , Khaloo Alireza , Kavei Sina
Published: September 2023

The present study deals with introducing a novel approach toward estimating the effective width of flanged reinforced concrete shear walls (FRCSWs). Due to the paucity of studies in assessing the effective width of nonrectangular sections, this paper aims at proposing efficacious formulations for the effective width estimation of short, squat, and slender T‐ and U‐shaped reinforced concrete (RC) shear walls subjected to the simultaneous action of the axial and lateral loading. To this end, at first, FRCSWs are simulated in the flanged shear wall numerical laboratory (FlashLab) program, which utilizes the finite element Abaqus software to analyze the walls. Thereafter, employing the developed numerical models, an extensive parametric investigation is conducted for a wide range of the key parameters. General expressions have then been developed to estimate the effective width of flanged RC shear walls invoking the evolutionary polynomial regression (EPR) analysis in conjunction with the genetic algorithm (GA). To assess the capability of the established equations in predicting the effective width of flanged sections, R‐factors have been calculated for all the cases examined in this study, which ranged between 0.78 and 0.94. Furthermore, a comparison has been made among the results attained through the proposed methodology and those obtained using the conventional design codes. It was revealed that the relative error obtained employing the proposed formulations is less than that of the corresponding values of the design codes by approximately 30% on average. The superiority of the established framework stems from consideration of the following: (1) influential parameters, (2) effective width variations at different performance levels, (3) loading direction, and (4) type of the wall in the effective width calculation process.
Switching it Up: The Promise of Stimuli‐Responsive Polymer Systems in Biomedical Science
Authors: Shymborska Yana , Budkowski Andrzej , Raczkowska Joanna , Donchak Volodymyr , Melnyk Yuriy , Vasiichuk Viktor , Stetsyshyn Yurij
Published: September 2023

Responsive polymer systems have the ability to change properties or behavior in response to external stimuli. The properties of responsive polymer systems can be fine‐tuned by adjusting the stimuli, enabling tailored responses for specific applications. These systems have applications in drug delivery, biosensors, tissue engineering, and more, as their ability to adapt and respond to dynamic environments leads to improved performance. However, challenges such as synthesis complexity, sensitivity limitations, and manufacturing issues need to be addressed for successful implementation. In our review, we provide a comprehensive summary on stimuli‐responsive polymer systems, delving into the intricacies of their mechanisms and actions. Future developments should focus on precision medicine, multifunctionality, reversibility, bioinspired designs, and integration with advanced technologies, driving the dynamic growth of sensitive polymer systems in biomedical applications.
Recent Developments in Electrodeposition of Transition Metal Chalcogenides‐Based Electrode Materials for Advance Supercapacitor Applications: A Review
Authors: Mohapatra Subhashree , Das Himadri Tanaya , Tripathy Bankim Chandra , Das Nigamananda
Published: September 2023

High‐performance supercapacitive electrode materials have received significant attention from researchers worldwide, thus aiming for comparable performance similar to the extensively used rechargeable batteries. For emerging energy storage technologies like flexible supercapacitors, transition metal chalcogenides (TMCs) have been in the spotlight due to their promising electrochemical features compared to other electrode materials. Among the synthesis techniques, electrodeposition‐mediated preparation of thin films of TMCs offered an affordable binder‐free approach for electrode fabrication that effectively improved the supercapacitor performance. Hence, this review mainly focussed on the electrodeposition‐based syntheses of single/ multinary chalcogenides and their composites for supercapacitors applications. Further, the effects of different deposition parameters were discussed for boosting the supercapacitor performance. Finally, this review outlined the existing challenges and future perspectives in this research domain, which will assist the upcoming exploration in the energy storage field.
Salinity stress tolerance prediction for biomass‐related traits in maize (Zea mays L.) using genome‐wide markers
Authors: Singh Vishal , Krause Margaret , Sandhu Devinder , Sekhon Rajandeep S. , Kaundal Amita
Published: September 2023

Maize (Zea mays L.) is the third most important cereal crop after rice (Oryza sativa) and wheat (Triticum aestivum). Salinity stress significantly affects vegetative biomass and grain yield and, therefore, reduces the food and silage productivity of maize. Selecting salt‐tolerant genotypes is a cumbersome and time‐consuming process that requires meticulous phenotyping. To predict salt tolerance in maize, we estimated breeding values for four biomass‐related traits, including shoot length, shoot weight, root length, and root weight under salt‐stressed and controlled conditions. A five‐fold cross‐validation method was used to select the best model among genomic best linear unbiased prediction (GBLUP), ridge‐regression BLUP (rrBLUP), extended GBLUP, Bayesian Lasso, Bayesian ridge regression, BayesA, BayesB, and BayesC. Examination of the effect of different marker densities on prediction accuracy revealed that a set of low‐density single nucleotide polymorphisms obtained through filtering based on a combination of analysis of variance and linkage disequilibrium provided the best prediction accuracy for all the traits. The average prediction accuracy in cross‐validations ranged from 0.46 to 0.77 across the four derived traits. The GBLUP, rrBLUP, and all Bayesian models except BayesB demonstrated comparable levels of prediction accuracy that were superior to the other modeling approaches. These findings provide a roadmap for the deployment and optimization of genomic selection in breeding for salt tolerance in maize.
Secondary glaucoma: Toward interventions based on molecular underpinnings
Authors: Mueller Anna , Lam Isabel , Kishor Krishna , Lee Richard K. , Bhattacharya Sanjoy
Published: September 2023

Glaucoma is a heterogeneous group of progressive diseases that leads to irreversible blindness. Secondary glaucoma refers to glaucoma caused by a known underlying condition. Pseudoexfoliation and pigment dispersion syndromes are common causes of secondary glaucoma. Their respective deposits may obstruct the trabecular meshwork, leading to aqueous humor outflow resistance, ocular hypertension, and optic neuropathy. There are no disease‐specific interventions available for either. Pseudoexfoliation syndrome is characterized by fibrillar deposits (pseudoexfoliative material) on anterior segment structures. Over a decade of multiomics analyses taken together with the current knowledge on pseudoexfoliative glaucoma warrant a re‐think of mechanistic possibilities. We propose that the presence of nucleation centers (e.g., vitamin D binding protein), crosslinking enzymes (e.g., transglutaminase 2), aberrant extracellular matrix, flawed endocytosis, and abnormal aqueous‐blood barrier contribute to the formation of proteolytically resistant pseudoexfoliative material. Pigment dispersion syndrome is characterized by abnormal iridolenticular contact that disrupts iris pigment epithelium and liberates melanin granules. Iris melanogenesis is aberrant in this condition. Cytotoxic melanogenesis intermediates leak out of melanosomes and cause iris melanocyte and pigment epithelium cell death. Targeting melanogenesis can likely decrease the risk of pigmentary glaucoma. Skin and melanoma research provides insights into potential therapeutics. We propose that specific prostanoid agonists and fenofibrates may reduce melanogenesis by inhibiting cholesterol internalization and de novo synthesis. Additionally, melatonin is a potent melanogenesis suppressor, antioxidant, and hypotensive agent, rendering it a valuable agent for pigmentary glaucoma. In pseudoexfoliative glaucoma, where environmental insults drive pseudoexfoliative material formation, melatonin's antioxidant and hypotensive properties may offer adjunct therapeutic benefits.

This article is categorized under:

Neurological Diseases > Molecular and Cellular Physiology
Bayesian Robust Multivariate Time Series Analysis in Nonlinear Regression Models with Vector Autoregressive and t-Distributed Errors
Authors: Dorndorf Alexander , Kargoll Boris , Paffenholz Jens-André , Alkhatib Hamza
Published: September 2023

Geodetic measurements rely on high-resolution sensors, but produce data sets with many observations which may contain outliers and correlated deviations. This paper proposes a powerful solution using Bayesian inference. The observed data is modeled as a multivariate time series with a stationary autoregressive (VAR) process and multivariate t-distribution for white noise. Bayes’ theorem integrates prior knowledge. Parameters, including functional, VAR coefficients, scaling, and degree of freedom of the t-distribution, are estimated with Markov Chain Monte Carlo using a Metropolis-within-Gibbs algorithm.
Kapitel 6. Mobilität
Authors: Frey Harald , Brezina Tadej , Emberger Günter
Published: September 2023

Die Pkw-Nutzung, gemessen in durchschnittlicher zurückgelegter Tagesentfernungen, sowie der Motorisierungsgrad (Pkw/1000 Einwohner_innen) nehmen in ruralen und suburbanen Regionen weiter zu. Trendverlangsamungen bzw. Trendumkehren sind nur in einigen Landeshauptstädten feststellbar. (hohe Übereinstimmung, starke Literaturbasis)

Der Verkehrssektor verursacht als einziger Sektor noch immer steigende Treibhausgasemissionen. (hohe Übereinstimmung, starke Literaturbasis)

Technische, die Effizienz erhöhende Maßnahmen, wie zum Beispiel der Umstieg auf E-Mobilität oder alternative Treibstoffe, reichen nicht aus, um die Klimaziele im Verkehrssektor zu erreichen. (hohe Übereinstimmung, starke Literaturbasis)

Das Verhalten der Verkehrsteilnehmer_innen wird maßgeblich von den bereitgestellten Strukturen (Infrastrukturen, ordnungspolitischen und monetären Strukturen) beeinflusst. (hohe Übereinstimmung, starke Literaturbasis)

Das Verkehrsverhalten beeinflussende Maßnahmen, wie die Einführung von Kostenwahrheit für alle Verkehrsträger, Infrastrukturumgestaltung für den Umweltverbund zulasten des Autoverkehrs, Tempolimits, flächendeckende Parkraumbewirtschaftung etc., sind für eine flächendeckende Trendumkehr bezüglich Treibhausgasemissionen notwendig. (hohe Übereinstimmung, starke Literaturbasis)

Eine zielgerichtete Planung, Beschluss, Umsetzung und Monitoring nachweislich effizienzgeprüfter Maßnahmen auf allen Verwaltungsebene (EU, Bund, Länder und Gemeinden) ist Voraussetzung für eine Dekarbonisierung der Mobilität. (hohe Übereinstimmung, starke Literaturbasis)
State dependence of Krylov complexity in 2d CFTs
Authors: Kundu Arnab , Malvimat Vinay , Sinha Ritam
Published: September 2023

Abstract

We compute the Krylov Complexity of a light operator $$ \mathcal{O} $$
O
L in an eigenstate of a 2d CFT at large central charge c. The eigenstate corresponds to a primary operator $$ \mathcal{O} $$
O
H under the state-operator correspondence. We observe that the behaviour of K-complexity is different (either bounded or exponential) depending on whether the scaling dimension of $$ \mathcal{O} $$
O
H is below or above the critical dimension hH = c/24, marked by the 1st order Hawking-Page phase transition point in the dual AdS3 geometry. Based on this feature, we hypothesize that the notions of operator growth and K-complexity for primary operators in 2d CFTs are closely related to the underlying entanglement structure of the state in which they are computed, thereby demonstrating explicitly their state-dependent nature. To provide further evidence for our hypothesis, we perform an analogous computation of K-complexity in a model of free massless scalar field theory in 2d, and in the integrable 2d Ising CFT, where there is no such transition in the spectrum of states.
Exploring β-symmetry in heterotic theory at order α′ with boundary term
Authors: Garousi Mohammad R.
Published: September 2023

Abstract

This paper investigates the β-symmetry of the heterotic string theory at order α′ in the context of open spacetime manifolds. Our analysis reveals that the parity-odd component of the effective action at this order remains invariant under β-transformations. Furthermore, we demonstrate that the corresponding β-transformations leave the Gibbons-Hawking boundary term invariant.
Taming new physics in b → cūd(s) with τ(B+)/τ(Bd) and $$ {a}_{sl}^d $$
Authors: Lenz Alexander , Müller Jakob , Piscopo Maria Laura , Rusov Aleksey V.
Published: September 2023

Abstract

Inspired by the recently observed tensions between the experimental data and the theoretical predictions, based on QCD factorisation, for several colour-allowed non-leptonic B-meson decays, we study the potential size of new physics (NP) effects in the decay channels b → cūd(s). Starting from the most general effective Hamiltonian describing the b → cūd(s) transitions, we compute NP contributions to the theoretical predictions of B-meson lifetime and of B-mixing observables. The well-known lifetime ratio τ(B+)/τ(Bd) and the experimental bound on the semi-leptonic CP asymmetry $$ {a}_{sl}^d $$

a
sl
d

, provide strong, complementary constraints on some of the NP Wilson coefficients.
Complexity, scaling, and a phase transition
Authors: Yang Jiayue , Frey Andrew R.
Published: September 2023

Abstract

We investigate the holographic complexity of CFTs compactified on a circle with a Wilson line, dual to magnetized solitons in AdS4 and AdS5. These theories have a confinement-deconfinement phase transition as a function of the Wilson line, and the complexity of formation acts as an order parameter for this transition. Through explicit calculation, we show that proposed complexity functionals based on volume and action obey a scaling relation with radius of the circle and further prove that a broad family of potential complexity functionals obeys this scaling behavior. As a result, we conjecture that the scaling law applies to the complexity of conformal field theories on a circle in more general circumstances.
Human myofibroblasts increase the arrhythmogenic potential of human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes
Authors: Johnson Robert D. , Lei Ming , McVey John H. , Camelliti Patrizia
Published: September 2023

Human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes (hiPSC-CMs) have the potential to remuscularize infarcted hearts but their arrhythmogenicity remains an obstacle to safe transplantation. Myofibroblasts are the predominant cell-type in the infarcted myocardium but their impact on transplanted hiPSC-CMs remains poorly defined. Here, we investigate the effect of myofibroblasts on hiPSC-CMs electrophysiology and Ca2+ handling using optical mapping of advanced human cell coculture systems mimicking cell–cell interaction modalities. Human myofibroblasts altered the electrophysiology and Ca2+ handling of hiPSC-CMs and downregulated mRNAs encoding voltage channels (KV4.3, KV11.1 and Kir6.2) and SERCA2a calcium pump. Interleukin-6 was elevated in the presence of myofibroblasts and direct stimulation of hiPSC-CMs with exogenous interleukin-6 recapitulated the paracrine effects of myofibroblasts. Blocking interleukin-6 reduced the effects of myofibroblasts only in the absence of physical contact between cell-types. Myofibroblast-specific connexin43 knockdown reduced functional changes in contact cocultures only when combined with interleukin-6 blockade. This provides the first in-depth investigation into how human myofibroblasts modulate hiPSC-CMs function, identifying interleukin-6 and connexin43 as paracrine- and contact-mediators respectively, and highlighting their potential as targets for reducing arrhythmic risk in cardiac cell therapy.
The metabolic response of human trophoblasts derived from term placentas to metformin
Authors: Tarry-Adkins Jane L. , Robinson India G. , Pantaleão Lucas C. , Armstrong Jenna L. , Thackray Benjamin D. , Holzner Lorenz M. W. , Knapton Alice E. , Virtue Sam , Jenkins Benjamin , Koulman Albert , Murray Andrew J. , Ozanne Susan E. , Aiken Catherine E.
Published: September 2023

Aims/hypothesis

Metformin is increasingly used therapeutically during pregnancy worldwide, particularly in the treatment of gestational diabetes, which affects a substantial proportion of pregnant women globally. However, the impact on placental metabolism remains unclear. In view of the association between metformin use in pregnancy and decreased birthweight, it is essential to understand how metformin modulates the bioenergetic and anabolic functions of the placenta.

Methods

A cohort of 55 placentas delivered by elective Caesarean section at term was collected from consenting participants. Trophoblasts were isolated from the placental samples and treated in vitro with clinically relevant doses of metformin (0.01 mmol/l or 0.1 mmol/l) or vehicle. Respiratory function was assayed using high-resolution respirometry to measure oxygen concentration and calculated $${\dot{V}\mathrm{O}}_{2}$$

V
˙

O

2

. Glycolytic rate and glycolytic stress assays were performed using Agilent Seahorse XF assays. Fatty acid uptake and oxidation measurements were conducted using radioisotope-labelled assays. Lipidomic analysis was conducted using LC-MS. Gene expression and protein analysis were performed using RT-PCR and western blotting, respectively.

Results

Complex I-supported oxidative phosphorylation was lower in metformin-treated trophoblasts (0.01 mmol/l metformin, 61.7% of control, p<0.05; 0.1 mmol/l metformin, 43.1% of control, p<0.001). The proton efflux rate arising from glycolysis under physiological conditions was increased following metformin treatment, up to 23±5% above control conditions following treatment with 0.1 mmol/l metformin (p<0.01). There was a significant increase in triglyceride concentrations in trophoblasts treated with 0.1 mmol/l metformin (p<0.05), particularly those of esters of long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids. Fatty acid oxidation was reduced by ~50% in trophoblasts treated with 0.1 mmol/l metformin compared with controls (p<0.001), with no difference in uptake between treatment groups.

Conclusions/interpretation

In primary trophoblasts derived from term placentas metformin treatment caused a reduction in oxidative phosphorylation through partial inactivation of complex I and potentially by other mechanisms. Metformin-treated trophoblasts accumulate lipids, particularly long- and very-long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids. Our findings raise clinically important questions about the balance of risk of metformin use during pregnancy, particularly in situations where the benefits are not clear-cut and alternative therapies are available.

Graphical Abstract
School learning modes during the COVID-19 response and pre- to during pandemic mental health changes in a prospective cohort of Canadian adolescents
Authors: Patte Karen A. , Battista Katelyn , Ferro Mark A. , Bélanger Richard E. , Wade Terrance J. , Faulkner Guy , Pickett William , Riazi Negin A. , Michaelson Valerie , Carsley Sarah , Leatherdale Scott T.
Published: September 2023

Purpose

Considerable debate centered on the impact of school closures and shifts to virtual learning on adolescent mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic. We evaluated whether mental health changes differed by school learning modes during the pandemic response among Canadian adolescents and whether associations varied by gender and perceived home life.

Methods

We used prospective survey data from 7270 adolescents attending 41 Canadian secondary schools. Conditional change linear mixed effects models were used to examine learning mode (virtual optional, virtual mandated, in-person, and blended) as a predictor of change in mental health scores (depression [Centre for Epidemiologic Studies – Depression], anxiety [Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7], and psychosocial well-being [Flourishing scale]), adjusting for baseline mental health and covariates. Gender and home life happiness were tested as moderators. Least square means were calculated across interaction groups.

Results

Students learning in a blended learning mode had greater anxiety increases relative to their peers in other learning modes. Females learning fully in-person and males learning virtually when optional reported less of an increase in depression scores relative to their gender counterparts in other learning modes. Learning virtually when optional was associated with greater declines in psychosocial well-being in students without happy home lives relative to other learning modes.

Conclusion

Findings demonstrate the importance of considering gender and home environments as determinants of mental health over the pandemic response and when considering alternative learning modes. Further research is advised before implementing virtual and blended learning modes. Potential risks and benefits must be weighed in the context of a pandemic.
Trajectories of COVID-19 pandemic-related depressive symptoms and potential predictors: the FinnBrain Birth Cohort Study
Authors: Li Ru , Karukivi Max , Lindblom Jallu , Korja Riikka , Karlsson Linnea , Karlsson Hasse , Nolvi Saara
Published: September 2023

Purpose

In the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, mental health problems have been reported, and parents of young children may be more vulnerable to psychological distress due to increased caregiving responsibilities. However, research on the heterogeneity of the longitudinal course of psychological symptoms during the pandemic and the predispositions linked with these courses is still scarce. This study aimed to identify differential trajectories of depressive symptoms among the parents of young children and investigate the role of temperament traits, alexithymia, and coping styles in the heterogeneity of the symptom trajectories.

Methods

The sample consists of 844 parents from the FinnBrain Birth Cohort Study. Latent growth mixture modeling was utilized to identify trajectories of depressive symptoms from pre-pandemic between 2014 and 2019 (T0, the closest available measurement was used) to May/June 2020 (T1) and December 2020 (T2) during the pandemic. Multinomial logistic regression was used to examine temperament, alexithymia, and coping as predictors of symptom trajectories, controlling for various background factors.

Results

Four trajectories of depressive symptoms were identified. Most parents experienced low and stable depressive symptoms. Negative affect, effortful control, alexithymia, emotion-diverting coping (self-distraction and venting), and avoidant coping (denial and behavioral disengagement) were predictors for subclinical stable depressive symptoms. Constructive coping (positive reframing, acceptance, and humor) protected the cohort parents from increasing or moderately high depressive symptoms.

Conclusions

The findings have implications for identifying vulnerable individuals with specific traits and strengthening of constructive coping strategies as possible foci in interventions for depression during global crises.