bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Esophageal food bolus impaction in pediatric age
Authors: Quitadamo Paolo , Pascarella Antonia , Gragnaniello Piergiorgio , Isoldi Sara , Bucci Cristina , Turco Rossella , Puoti Maria Giovanna , Furio Silvia , Caldore Mariano , Di Nardo Giovanni
Published: April 2024

Objectives

Esophageal food impaction (EFI) is the sudden onset of dysphagia that occurs when a food bolus becomes lodged in the esophagus, requiring endoscopic removal. Scientific data on the prevalence and causes of EFI in children is lacking. The aim of this study was to provide further insights into EFI episodes in children.

Methods

We have prospectively enrolled all children admitted for a first episode of EFI between March 2018 and March 2023. A fluoroscopic contrast study was performed in all patients to confirm the boluses and assess their position. Boluses were extracted by esophagogastroduodenoscopies, and esophageal biopsies were routinely obtained for histologic evaluation.

Results

Over the study period, 41 children were admitted for a first episode of food impaction. Drooling was the most commonly reported symptom. Half children experiencing a first episode of food bolus were diagnosed with EoE (20/41, 48.8%). Almost a fourth of the episodes subtended a different condition, such as esophageal anastomotic, peptic or congenital strictures, stricturing caustic esophagitis, esophageal duplication, and achalasia. In the last fourth of patients the cause of EFI was not identified and thus probably related to quick eating and inadequate chewing of food.

Discussion

Our study represents the largest known series of pediatric patients evaluated for food bolus impaction. Our main finding is the high frequency of EoE, which accounts for a half of EFI episodes in pediatric age, especially in older children. This finding highlights the importance of obtaining esophageal biopsies after the endoscopic bolus removal in children with EFI to provide a complete diagnostic evaluation.
Enhancing salt tolerance and crop growth in agricultural systems: the impact of magnetized‐ionized water irrigation on soil properties, microbial communities, and cotton growth
Authors: Lin Shudong , Wang Quanjiu , Zhao Xue , Gu Yunna , Wei Kai , Luo Pengcheng , Deng Mingjiang
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND

The development of agricultural practices requires an understanding of the improvement of salt tolerance and crop growth in agricultural systems through magnetized‐ionized water irrigation.

METHOD

This study examined the impacts of fresh water (F), brackish water (B), magnetized‐ionized fresh water (MIF), and magnetized‐ionized brackish water (MIB) on soil properties and the growth of cotton seedlings through microbial analysis during the cotton seedling period.

RESULTS

The results revealed that magnetized‐ionized water irrigation improved soil water retention and promoted salt leaching. In comparison with F irrigation, plant height, leaf area index (LAI), dry matter accumulation (DM), and chlorophyll content (SPAD) levels increased by 3.61%, 4.07%, 5.76%, and 1.33%, respectively, under MIF irrigation. Similarly, when compared with B irrigation, LAI, DM, and SPAD increased by 5.13%, 6.12%, and 3.12% under MIB irrigation. Magnetized‐ionized water irrigation also led to a notable rise in the relative abundance of beneficial soil bacterial communities, particularly Pseudomonas and Azoarcus, as well as fungal communities like Trichoderma, while reducing the prevalence of pathogenic fungi, such as Lasionectria, Gibberella, and Alternaria. Notably, this irrigation approach induced alterations in soil properties, and partial least squares path modeling revealed significant links between soil properties and both cotton growth and fungal community structure (with path coefficients of −0.884 and 0.693, respectively).

CONCLUSION

This study elucidated the distinct effects of soil properties and growth indices on cotton yield during the seedling period, providing a crucial scientific foundation for enhancing future agricultural production through the use of magnetized‐ionized water irrigation. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Updates in global oncology: Advancements and future directions
Authors: Jackman Julia M. , Yibrehu Betel , Doyle Alex , Alatise Olusegun Isaac , Wuraola Funmilola Olanike , Olasehinde Olalekan , Peter Kingham T.
Published: April 2024

Globally, cancer is the second leading cause of death, and low‐ and middle‐income countries bear most of the disease burden. While cancer is increasingly recognized as a major global health issue, more work remains. Understanding the status of global cancer care will shape the next steps in ensuring equitable global access to cancer care. This article highlights ongoing initiatives in global oncology and the next steps in advancing the field.
The Petrosquamosal Sinus: A Rare Vascular Variant Encountered During Cochlear Implantation Surgery
Authors: Lakhdar Youssef , Youbi Salah‐Eddine , Oulghoul Omar , Chehbouni Mohammed , Benhoummad Othmane , Rochdi Youssef , Raji Abdelaziz
Published: April 2024

The petrosquamosal sinus is a rare and almost unknown emissary vein of the temporal bone. It traverses the middle cranial fossa along the petrosquamosal fissure and connects dural sinuses with extracranial venous networks. It is known to undergo normal involution during fetal and early postnatal life, and therefore is rarely found in humans. When encountered during surgery, it can be a significant source of bleeding hindering proper visualization of important surgical landmarks. Here we report the case of a PSS, encountered in a child during cochlear implantation surgery. We discuss its clinical significance and impact on the surgical approach. Laryngoscope, 134:4111–4113, 2024
Congenital disorders of glycosylation with multiorgan disruption and immune dysregulation caused by compound heterozygous variants in MAN2B2
Authors: Fan Shiqi , Wu Huanhuan , Wang Rongrong , Chen Qian , Zhang Xue
Published: April 2024

Background

Congenital disorders of glycosylation (CDG) are a type of inborn error of metabolism (IEM) resulting from defects in glycan synthesis or failed attachment of glycans to proteins or lipids. One rare type of CDG is caused by homozygous or compound heterozygous loss‐of‐function variants in mannosidase alpha class 2B member 2 (MAN2B2). To date, only two cases of MAN2B2‐CDG have been reported worldwide.

Methods

Trio whole‐exome sequencing (Trio‐WES) was conducted to screen for candidate variants. N‐glycan profiles were measured by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS). MAN2B2 expression was evaluated by western blotting. MX dynamin like GTPase 1 (MX1) function was estimated via Thogoto virus (THOV) minireplicon assay.

Results

Trio‐WES identified compound heterozygous MAN2B2 (hg19, NM_015274.1) variants (c.384G>T; c.926T>A) in a CDG patient. This patient exhibited metabolic abnormalities, symptoms of digestive tract dysfunction, infection, dehydration, and seizures. Novel immune dysregulation characterized by abnormal lymphocytes and immunoglobulin was observed. The MAN2B2 protein level was not affected, while LC–MS/MS showed obvious disruption of N‐glycans and N‐linked glycoproteins.

Conclusion

We described a CDG patient with novel phenotypes and disruptive N‐glycan profiling caused by compound heterozygous MAN2B2 variants (c.384G>T; c.926T>A). Our findings broadened both the genetic and clinical spectra of CDG.
In vivo T2 measurements of the fetal brain using single‐shot fast spin echo sequences
Authors: Bhattacharya Suryava , Price Anthony N. , Uus Alena , Sousa Helena S. , Marenzana Massimo , Colford Kathleen , Murkin Peter , Lee Maggie , Cordero‐Grande Lucilio , Teixeira Rui Pedro A. G. , Malik Shaihan J. , Deprez Maria
Published: April 2024

Purpose

We propose a quantitative framework for motion‐corrected T2 fetal brain measurements in vivo and validate the single‐shot fast spin echo (SS‐FSE) sequence to perform these measurements.

Methods

Stacks of two‐dimensional SS‐FSE slices are acquired with different echo times (TE) and motion‐corrected with slice‐to‐volume reconstruction (SVR). The quantitative T2 maps are obtained by a fit to a dictionary of simulated signals. The sequence is selected using simulated experiments on a numerical phantom and validated on a physical phantom scanned on a 1.5T system. In vivo quantitative T2 maps are obtained for five fetuses with gestational ages (GA) 21–35 weeks on the same 1.5T system.

Results

The simulated experiments suggested that a TE of 400 ms combined with the clinically utilized TEs of 80 and 180 ms were most suitable for T2 measurements in the fetal brain. The validation on the physical phantom confirmed that the SS‐FSE T2 measurements match the gold standard multi‐echo spin echo measurements. We measured average T2s of around 200 and 280 ms in the fetal brain grey and white matter, respectively. This was slightly higher than fetal T2* and the neonatal T2 obtained from previous studies.

Conclusion

The motion‐corrected SS‐FSE acquisitions with varying TEs offer a promising practical framework for quantitative T2 measurements of the moving fetus.
Spatiotemporal encoding MRI in a portable low‐field system
Authors: Qiu Yueqi , Dai Ke , Zhong Sijie , Chen Suen , Wang Changyue , Chen Hao , Frydman Lucio , Zhang Zhiyong
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Demonstrate the potential of spatiotemporal encoding (SPEN) MRI to deliver largely undistorted 2D, 3D, and diffusion weighted images on a 110 mT portable system.

Methods

SPEN's quadratic phase modulation was used to subsample the low‐bandwidth dimension of echo planar acquisitions, delivering alias‐free images with an enhanced immunity to image distortions in a laboratory‐built, low‐field, portable MRI system lacking multiple receivers.

Results

Healthy brain images with different SPEN time‐bandwidth products and subsampling factors were collected. These compared favorably to EPI acquisitions including topup corrections. Robust 3D and diffusion weighted SPEN images of diagnostic value were demonstrated, with 2.5 mm isotropic resolutions achieved in 3 min scans. This performance took advantage of the low specific absorption rate and relative long TEs associated with low‐field MRI.

Conclusion

SPEN MRI provides a robust and advantageous fast acquisition approach to obtain faithful 3D images and DWI data in low‐cost, portable, low‐field systems without parallel acceleration.
Can pelvic floor muscle function before surgery determine the outcome of surgical treatment of stress urinary incontinence in women?
Authors: Szymański Jacek K. , Krawczyk Agata , Starzec‐Proserpio Małgorzata , Raczkiewicz Dorota , Kukulski Piotr , Jakiel Grzegorz
Published: April 2024

Aim

The study aimed to determine whether pelvic floor muscle (PFM) function before surgery may correlate with the success of surgical interventions for treating stress urinary incontinence (SUI). Our hypothesis was that addressing identified variables in preoperative rehabilitation could potentially improve surgical outcomes.

Methods

This prospective observational study was conducted at a single center and enrolled women qualified to mid‐urethral tape insertion for SUI between 2020 and 2022. Digital palpation and manometry (Peritron™ 9300 V) were used to evaluate PFM function. The following parameters were acquired: vaginal resting pressure, vaginal pressure during maximal voluntary contraction (MVC), the area under the curve during a 10‐second MVC, moreover the ability to perform correct PFM contraction, reflexive PFM contraction during cough and relaxation were assessed. All measurements were performed before the surgical treatment and during follow‐up assessments at 1, 3, and 6 months postoperatively. The primary endpoint of the study was defined as objective cure, characterized by a negative cough stress test (CST), along with a subjective assessment based on the Urogenital Distress Inventory‐6 (UDI‐6) and Incontinence Impact Questionnaire‐7 (IIQ‐7).

Results

The study involved 57 eligible female participants, all of whom completed the 6‐month follow‐up. Objective cure was observed in 75.44% of cases, while subjective cure was reported in 33%. There was no association between PFM parameters and surgical outcomes.

Conclusion

The success of surgical treatment of SUI 6 months postsurgery is not related to preoperative pelvic floor muscle function.
Guideline for evaluating the effects of psychotropic drugs on motor vehicle driving performance in Japan: A tiered approach for the assessment of clinically meaningful driving impairment
Authors: Nakabayashi Tetsuo , Iwamoto Kunihiro , Yamaguchi Akiko , Konishi Yuki , Saji Momoe , Yoshimura Reiji , Kanemoto Kousuke , Aoki Hirofumi , Ando Masahiko , Ozaki Norio
Published: April 2024

In December 2022, the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW) of Japan issued and implemented the guideline for evaluating the effects of psychotropic drugs on motor vehicle driving performance. This guideline recommends the use of a tiered approach to assess clinically meaningful driving impairment. It is noted that adverse events cannot be solely explained by pharmacokinetics, as the onset and duration of these events vary. Among these adverse events, those affecting alertness, such as drowsiness caused by psychotropic drugs on driving performance, are more frequently observed during initial treatment stages and dose escalation. Hence, when evaluating the effects of psychotropic drugs on driving performance, it becomes crucial to assess the persistence of clinically meaningful impairment. Therefore, the MHLW guideline, developed by the authors, emphasizes the need to assess the temporal profile of adverse events affecting driving in all clinical trials. Additionally, the guideline states that when conducting driving studies, the timing of multiple dosing should consider not only the pharmacokinetics of the investigational drug but also its tolerance.
Comparative Study of Catalytic Activity of Recyclable Au/Fe3O4 Microparticles for Reduction Of 2,4‐Dinitrophenol and Anionic, Cationic Azo Dyes.
Authors: Batsukh Ikhbayar , Khishigjargal Tegshjargal , Dembereldorj Uuriintuya , Sambuu Munkhtsetseg , Ganbold Erdene‐Ochir , Norov Erdene
Published: April 2024

We synthesized Au/Fe3O4 microparticles. Initially, citrate‐capped Fe3O4 micro‐sized particles were synthesized by the co‐precipitation method with an excess amount of trisodium citrate. Gold ions were reduced on the surface of citrate‐capped Fe3O4 and grew as gold sub‐microparticles with an average diameter of 210 nm on the surface. The characteristic SPR peak of gold nanoparticles on the surface of Fe3O4 was detected at 584 nm, whereas the absorption in the near‐infrared region was increased. SEM images has proved that the synthesized Au/Fe3O4 composite microparticles has an average diameter of 1.7 micrometers. The results of XRD patterns proved the existence of both crystal phases of Fe3O4 and Au particles. To investigate the catalytic activity, the reaction rate constant of reduction of 2,4‐dinitrophenol (2,4‐DNP) and degradation of Congo red (CR), and methylene blue (MB) with NaBH4 in the presence of Au/Fe3O4 catalyst was monitored by UV‐Vis spectroscopy. The initial reaction rate constant calculated from the change in characteristic peak absorptions of 2,4‐dinitrophenol was 3.97×10−3 s−1, while the reaction rate constants for the degradation of CR and MB were 9.72×10−3 s−1 and 14.25×10−3 s−1 respectively. After 5 cycles, Au/Fe3O4 microparticles preserved 99 % of the reaction rate constant, exhibiting considerable recycling efficiency in the reduction of nitro groups.
Preparation and characterization of halloysite nanotube‐silica/silicone rubber composites: Effect of HNTs on mechanical and thermal properties
Authors: Wang Fanghui , Shen Xiaomei , Wang Qingfu , Zhu Hong
Published: April 2024

A series of halloysite nanotube‐silica (HNTs‐SiO2) nanocomposite fillers were prepared by in‐situ assembly, and a reinforced SiO2/SR composite was obtained by filling them into silicone rubber (SR). The morphology and structural characterization of HNTs‐SiO2 and HNTs‐SiO2/SR and the properties of the HNTs‐SiO2/SR were studied. As a result, the small particle size SiO2 was firmly anchored onto the HNTs surface, and the obtained HNTs‐SiO2 nanofillers were uniformly dispersed in SR. At a 30 phr fixed filler loading, the weakest filler network and the best filler dispersion were obtained when HNTs content in HNTs‐SiO2 was 5%. This resulted in a maximum tensile strength obtained of 6.2 MPa, 1.55 times that of SiO2/SR with the same filler loading, and a maximum elongation at break of 418%, 1.67 times that of the SiO2/SR with the same filler loading, and at the same time the tearing strength and hardness are also improved. Furthermore, the silicone rubber also showed improved thermal stability, with an initial degradation temperature increase of 30°C under a nitrogen atmosphere.

Highlights

HNTs–SiO2 nanocomposites were successfully prepared by the self‐assembly method and used as fillers in SR as a new type of reinforcing material.

The 1D HNTs act as a barrier to prevent SiO2 aggregation and improved fillers dispersion.

The elongation at break and tensile strength of 5% HNTs‐SiO2/SR are 67% and 55% higher than those of SiO2/SR, respectively.

The silicone rubber also showed improved thermal stability.
Surgical treatment may improve depressive and hysterical traits in temporal lobe epilepsy with hippocampal sclerosis: Study using the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory
Authors: Otabe Hiroyuki , Taniguchi Go , Iijima Keiya , Iwasaki Masaki
Published: April 2024

Aim

The influence of surgeries on psychiatric symptoms and personality traits is not well known in patients with intractable temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE). We investigated changes in personality traits with respect to postoperative seizure outcomes, etiology, side of surgery, and sex differences.

Methods

Clinical information was retrospectively collected for 44 patients whose Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI) was examined before and 1 year after surgical treatment for drug‐resistant TLE. Postoperative changes in MMPI T‐scores were analyzed using a paired t‐test. Participants were divided into two groups based on postoperative seizure outcome, the presence or absence of hippocampal sclerosis (HS) as the etiology, side of surgery, and sex differences. The effect of these clinical factors on postoperative changes in MMPI T‐scores was evaluated using analysis of covariance (P‐values < 0.05).

Results

The hypochondria (Hs) scale decreased significantly in all patients (p = 0.022). The postoperative seizure‐free group had a significant decrease in the depression (D) scale (p = 0.037). The HS group had significant decreases in the D scale and the hysteria (Hy) scale (p = 0.016 and 0.004, respectively), and a significant increase in the masculinity‐femininity (Mf) scale (p = 0.009). No significant differences existed between the sides of surgery or sex.

Conclusion

Depressive traits were improved in patients with postoperative seizure freedom. Depressive and hysterical traits were improved in patients with HS, which may be attributed to a reduction in anxiety and fear associated with aura. Most personality traits are not significantly changed or exacerbated by surgical treatment of TLE.
High positive predictive value 22q11.2 microdeletion screening by prenatal cell‐free DNA testing that incorporates fetal fraction amplification
Authors: Hammer Carly , Pierson Summer , Acevedo Ashley , Goldberg James , Westover Thomas , Chawla Devika , Mabey Brent , Muzzey Dale , Johansen Taber Katherine
Published: April 2024

Objective

22q11.2 deletion syndrome (DS) is a serious condition with a range of features. The small microdeletion causing 22q11.2DS makes it technically challenging to detect using standard prenatal cfDNA screening. Here, we assess 22q11.2 microdeletion clinical performance by a prenatal cfDNA screen that incorporates fetal fraction (FF) amplification.

Methods

The study cohort consisted of patients who received Prequel (Myriad Genetics, Inc.), a prenatal cfDNA screening that incorporates FF amplification, and met additional eligibility criteria. Pregnancy outcomes were obtained via a routine process for continuous quality improvement. Samples with diagnostic testing results were used to calculate positive predictive value (PPV).

Results

379,428 patients met study eligibility criteria, 76 of whom were screen‐positive for a de novo 22q11.2 microdeletion. 22 (29.7%) had diagnostic testing results available, and all 22 cases were confirmed as true positives, for a PPV of 100% (95% CI 84.6%–100%). This performance was based on cases that ranged broadly across FF (5.9%–41.1%, mean 23.0%), body mass index (22.3–44.8, mean 29.9), and gestational age at testing (10.0w–34.6w, median 12.7w). Ultrasound findings in screen‐positive pregnancies were consistent with those known to be associated with 22q11.2DS.

Conclusion

22q11.2 microdeletion screening that incorporates FF amplification demonstrated high PPV across both general and high‐risk population cohorts.
Higher education students' perceptions on their barriers to critical thinking
Authors: Semerci Nuriye , Semerci Çetin , Ünal Fatma , Yılmaz Emrullah , Yılmaz Ömer
Published: April 2024

This study aimed at identifying undergraduate students' barriers to critical thinking. This descriptive study adopted a cross‐sectional research method. Data were collected from 3rd and 4th grade students in a state university in the Black Sea Region of Turkey. Data were collected via the critical thinking barriers scale. The data obtained in the study were analyzed using SPSS 22. The mean scores, t‐test, and analysis of variance were employed in data analysis. The results of the study revealed that students slightly agree that they are unable to reason, are egocentric, overconfident, and rely on authority. Also, students slightly agree that they have some barriers to critical thinking. The study also demonstrated that grade slightly affects students' barriers to critical thinking, whereas gender and faculty have relatively deeper effects. This study concluded that students don't have significant barriers to critical thinking.
Molluscicide screening and identification of novel targets against Pomacea canaliculata
Authors: Qu Guoli , Yao Jiakai , Wang Jie , Zhang Xiaofei , Dai Jianrong , Yu Haonan , Dai Yang , Xing Yuntian
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND

Owing to the nonavailability of any clear targets for molluscicides against Pomacea canaliculata, target‐based screening strategy cannot be employed. In this study, the molluscicidal effects of typical pesticides on P. canaliculata were evaluated to obtain the molluscicide target. A series of arylpyrrole compounds were synthesized based on the discovered target, and their structure–activity relationships explored. A preliminary strategy for screening molluscicides based on specific targets was also developed.

RESULTS

A laboratory colony of P. canaliculata was developed, which showed no difference in sensitivity to niclosamide compared with the wild group, while exhibiting a higher stability against pesticide response. Mitochondrial adenosine triphosphate (ATP) synthase inhibitors and mitochondrial membrane potential uncouplers were identified and validated as potential targets for molluscicide screening against P. canaliculata. A series of arylpyrrole compounds were designed and synthesized. The median lethal concentration of 4‐bromo‐2‐(4‐chlorophenyl)‐5‐(trifluoromethyl)‐1H‐pyrrole‐3‐carbonitrile (Compound 102) was 10‐fold lower than that of niclosamide.

CONCLUSION

New molluscicide targets were discovered and validated, and preliminary strategies were explored for pesticide screening based on these targets. Compound 102 exhibited a high molluscicidal activity and had a great potential value for exploring a molluscicide to control P. canaliculata. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Quantitative identification and sensor sensitivity analysis in detection of odor volatile compounds emitted by scaly grain mites, Suidasia pontifica Oudemans
Authors: Ta‐Phaisach Naphacharakorn , Konvipasruang Ploychompoo , Attasopa Korrawat , Sringarm Korawan , Chiu Chun‐I , Chanbang Yaowaluk
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND

In Thailand, the scaly grain mite, Suidasia pontifica Oudemans, impacts the feed industry by emitting a lemongrass‐like odor in contaminated feed, reducing its palatability. This study focused on identifying volatile organic compounds (VOCs) associated with this odor in contaminated chicken feeds and ground maize, as well as individual mites using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS). We explored the relationship between VOC concentration and mite population size in chicken feed cultures, aiming to detect minimal mite presence through regression models. Additionally, we tested the sensitivity of nine electronic odor sensors in detecting these VOCs.

RESULTS

Our results showed Z‐citral and E‐citral present in mite‐contaminated ground maize, chicken feeds, but absent in uncontaminated samples. Mite populations in chicken feed followed a normal distribution, increasing rapidly, peaking, and then declining, a pattern mirrored in the concentrations of Z‐citral and E‐citral. Simple linear regression models confirmed a positive correlation between mite density and citral concentrations. Polynomial regression models indicated Z‐citral is detectable at mite densities over 67 individuals per gram and E‐citral over 3.89 individuals per gram. Odor sensors showed varying readings across different citral concentrations, uncontaminated, and mite‐infested chicken feeds.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study confirms that S. pontifica are responsible for the lemongrass‐like odor in infested samples, due to Z‐citral and E‐citral. The citral concentrations increase with mite population growth and are detectable at low mite densities, suggesting their effectiveness as biomarkers for early mite infestation detection. Additionally, MQ series odor sensors detected these VOCs, indicating their potential for monitoring mite infestations in storage environments. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Effect of Different Concentrations of Co Doping on the Properties of η′‐Cu6Sn5 and Ni3Sn4: First‐Principles Study
Authors: Wang Li , Huang Yaoxuan , Guo Shihao , Yao Jinye , Xing Jing , Ma Haitao , Wang Yunpeng , Chen Jun
Published: April 2024

In the field of electronic packaging, Ni3Sn4‐based and η′‐Cu6Sn5‐based compounds are common Sn‐based intermetallic compounds into which doping of other appropriate elements has been widely studied. Herein, the structural stability, mechanical properties, and electronic structures of (Ni,Co)3Sn4 and η′‐(Cu,Co)6Sn5 are systematically investigated using first‐principles calculations. By comparing the heat of formation of the doped and undoped intermetallic compounds, it is found that the doped Ni3Sn4 structure has a higher heat of formation and a less stable structure, while the doped η′‐Cu6Sn5 structure has a lower heat of formation and a more stable structure. The doped Ni3Sn4 exhibits an increasing bulk modulus (B) and Young's modulus (E), and the doped η′‐Cu6Sn5 exhibits a gradually increasing bulk modulus (B). These findings suggest that doping improves the rigidity and elastic deformation properties of the two intermetallic compounds. And yet the anisotropy of both intermetallic compounds is decreasing as doping concentration increases. According to the calculations of the electronic structures, the doped (Ni,Co)3Sn4 structure and the doped η′‐(Cu,Co)6Sn5 structure exhibit stronger metallicity. In addition, stronger Co–Sn ionic bonds are formed in the doped Ni3Sn4 and η′‐Cu6Sn5 structures. This suggests that the doped Ni3Sn4 and η′‐Cu6Sn5 structures are harder.
Exploiting G‐Quadruplex‐DNA Damage as a Tool to Quantify Singlet Oxygen Production
Authors: De Paepe Lessandro , Madder Annemieke , Cadoni Enrico
Published: April 2024

G‐Quadruplexes (G4s) are highly dynamic and polymorphic nucleic acid structures that can adopt a variety of conformations. When exposed to oxidative conditions, more specifically singlet oxygen, the guanosine nucleobases can be oxidized, which in turn can affect the conformation and folding of the G4. Based on this peculiar phenomenon, it is rationalized that G4s can serve as quantification sensors for the production of singlet oxygen. Here, a method for determining the quantum yield of singlet oxygen generation for visible as well as UV‐light excited photosensitizers, using a short G4 DNA sequence, readily available from common DNA companies, as a biological and water‐soluble probe, is presented.
The Wieselburg Bridge collapse—Analysis of the shear capacity based on forensic data
Authors: Huber Tobias , Kollegger Johann , Suza Dominik , Huber Patrick
Published: April 2024

This paper describes the structural aspects of the Wieselburg Bridge collapse in Austria. The original design and reinforcing details for this integral concrete bridge are discussed. The collapse of the bridge is re‐constructed based on forensic documentation of the failure. The results of structural analysis carried out using material properties obtained after failure are compared to the shear capacity obtained from various models and from test results from literature. The results are used to explain the cause of failure of the integral bridge under dead load.
Higher‐Order Behaviours in Bio‐Inspired Materials
Authors: Rebasa‐Vallverdu Aina , Antuch Manuel , Rosetti Beatrice , Braidotti Nicoletta , Gobbo Pierangelo
Published: April 2024

Bio‐inspired approaches in materials science and systems chemistry are yielding a variety of stimuli‐responsive and dynamic materials that are gradually changing our everyday life. However, the ability to chemically program these materials to exhibit macroscopic higher‐order behaviours such as self‐assembly, contractility, swarming, taxis, chemical communication, or predator‐prey dynamics remains an ongoing challenge. While still in its infancy, the successful fabrication of bio‐inspired materials displaying higher‐order behaviours not only will help bridging the gap between living and non‐living matter, but it will also contribute to the development of advanced materials for potential applications ranging from tissue engineering and biotechnology, to soft robotics and regenerative medicine. Our Mini‐Review will systematically discuss the higher‐order behaviours developed thus far in bio‐inspired systems, namely (i) polymer networks (ii) microbots, (iii) protocells, and (iv) prototissues. For each system it will provide key examples and highlight how the emergent behaviour could be chemically programmed.
Unravelling the deficit ideologies in English language education in Pakistan: A decolonial perspective
Authors: Syed Hassan
Published: April 2024

In this study the author combines translingualism and raciolinguistic perspectives to analyze the language ideologies and idealized listening/reading subject positions that undergird discourses on English language teaching in Pakistan. Drawing on data from national policy documents, the national curriculum for English, and English proficiency assessment reports, he shows how discourses on English as a medium of instruction, the English language curriculum, and assessment in Pakistan are fraught with deficit ideologies that emphasize a particular view of English proficiency that serves as an imaginary line of demarcation between proficient and deficient English teachers and reinforce linguistic and socioeconomic hierarchies. Instead of reified, Anglo‐normative orientations to English proficiency, the author proposes a translingual orientation that places students' multilingual identities at the center of English language teaching (ELT) practices. He concludes with a call for ELT practitioners and critical language scholars to develop organic links between classroom translingualism and political activism in order to dismantle socioeconomic hierarchies.
5 questions with: Carrie Phillips of University of Arkansas at Little Rock
Authors: Talarico Donna
Published: April 2024

Carrie Phillips is the Chief Communications and Marketing Officer at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. Phillips has a Doctorate in Education from Texas Tech University. Prior to her role at UA Little Rock, she spent more than a decade in marketing at Arkansas Tech University. Active in the industry and in her community, Carrie also serves on various boards and committees, including the Council for Advancement & Support of Education (CASE), American Marketing Association, Higher Education Web Professionals, and the Boy Scouts of America. She's a frequent speaker on the higher ed conference circuit.
Racquel Oden: From HBCU to Chair of the Thurgood Marshall College Fund
Authors: Arnett Autumn A.
Published: April 2024

Racquel Oden assumed the role of board chair of the Thurgood Marshall College Fund at the start of the new year, becoming the first female chair of the woman‐founded organization's board of directors.
Mental health of veterinary nurses and student veterinary nurses: A scoping review
Authors: King Naomi , Lewis Elisa G. , Kinnison Tierney , Langridge Alison , Civai Claudia , May Stephen Anthony , Cardwell Jacqueline M.
Published: April 2024

Background

Research has shown that veterinarians around the world are at high risk of mental health problems, but far less research has examined the mental health of veterinary nurses (VNs) and student veterinary nurses (SVNs). This scoping review aimed to map existing evidence on this topic and identify knowledge gaps.

Methods

Literature searches of MEDLINE, PsycINFO, PubMed, Web of Science and Google Scholar were conducted, and a structured screening and selection procedure was applied. To be included, studies had to be peer reviewed, report relevant results specific to VNs and/or SVNs, and provide descriptive statistics if using quantitative methods.

Results

Of the 2118 publications identified, only 13 journal articles met the inclusion criteria. The findings were summarised in five categories: mental health and wellbeing, burnout, stress, compassion fatigue and moral distress. While the findings of five of the studies suggested that some VNs and SVNs experienced some form of poor mental health, these studies lacked generalisability or transferability for multiple reasons. There was also inconsistency and ambiguity in the interpretation of findings, as well as incompatible or oversimplified definitions of mental health problems.

Limitations

Our review excluded grey literature, such as reports, theses and conference presentations, as a preliminary search found very little empirical research on VNs' and SVNs' mental health in this type of publication.

Conclusions

More research is needed to address the gaps in the existing evidence supporting our understanding of VN and SVN mental health. This should establish baseline measures and include comparisons with other occupational and national populations.
Measuring and modeling soil moisture and runoff at solar farms using a disconnected impervious surface approach
Authors: Mulla David , Galzki Jake , Hanson Aaron , Simunek Jirka
Published: April 2024

Ground‐mounted photovoltaic sites are often treated as impervious surfaces in stormwater permits. This ignores the pervious soils beneath and between solar arrays and leads to an overestimation of runoff. Our objective was to improve solar farm stormwater hydrology models by explicitly considering the disconnected impervious nature of solar design and site characteristics. Experimental sites established on utility scale solar farms in Colorado, Georgia, Minnesota, New York, and Oregon had perennial vegetative plantings with mean precipitation ranging from 40.6 to 124.5 cm, and soil texture ranging from loamy sand to clay. Soil moisture measurements were collected beneath arrays, under drip edges, and in the vegetated area between arrays at each site. Hydrus‐3D models for soil moisture and stormwater hydrology were developed that accounted for precipitation falling on solar panels, drip edge redistribution of rainfall, infiltration, and runoff in the pervious areas between solar arrays and beneath panels. Drip edge runoff averaged 3‐ to 10‐times incident precipitation at the New York and Minnesota sites, respectively. Root mean square error values between measured sub‐hourly soil moisture and predicted moisture for large measured single storm events averaged 0.029 across all five sites. Predicted runoff depths were strongly affected by precipitation depth, soil texture, soil profile depth, and soil bulk density. Runoff depths across the five experimental sites averaged 13%, 25%, and 45% of the 2‐, 10‐, and 100‐year design storm depths, clearly showing that these solar farms do not behave like impervious surfaces, but rather as disconnected impervious surfaces with substantial infiltration of runoff in the vegetated areas between and beneath solar arrays.
The Victim-Offender Overlap in Prisons and Associated Challenges for Prison Managers
Authors: van Ginneken Esther F. J. C.
Published: April 2024

Thus far, victimisation and offending in prison have been studied largely as separate phenomena. As a result, the overlap between these categories has received little attention, even though offending may increase the risk of victimisation, and vice versa. First, this chapter considers how and why the victim-offender overlap exists in prison by drawing on prior research, and examining the most appropriate theoretical explanations beyond the importation and deprivation perspective. In addition to situational dynamics of mutual assault and retaliation, the organisational nature of the illicit economy should be examined to understand the victim-offender overlap. The second part of this chapter discusses the victim-offender overlap—particularly in relation to the illicit economy—from a prison-management perspective, using interview data from 45 prison managers in Dutch prisons. The following three challenges are discussed: (1) prison managers are required to sanction addiction-driven drug use; (2) prison managers often sanction people who act under duress; and (3) the leaders ‘in charge’ of the illicit economy are difficult to sanction. As will be shown, increasing safety in prisons is not simply a matter of sanctioning misconduct.
Curriculum Klinische Akut- und Notfallmedizin – Schwerpunkt Innere Medizin
Authors:   DGIIN,   DGIM,   BDI,   DGA,   DGE,   DGVS,   DGG,   DGHO,   DGI,   DGK,   DGfN,   DG f. Pneumologie und Beatmungsmedizin,   DG f. Palliativmedizin,   DGRh, Busch Hans-Jörg , Wolfrum Sebastian , Michels Guido , Baumgärtel Matthias , Bodmann Klaus-Friedrich , Buerke Michael , Burst Volker , Enghard Philipp , Ertl Georg , Fach Wolf Andreas , Hanses Frank , Heppner Hans Jürgen , Hermes Carsten , Janssens Uwe , John Stefan , Jung Christian , Karagiannidis Christian , Kiehl Michael , Kluge Stefan , Koch Alexander , Kochanek Matthias , Korsten Peter , Lepper Philipp M. , Merkel Martin , Müller-Werdan Ursula , Neukirchen Martin , Pfeil Alexander , Riessen Reimer , Rottbauer Wolfgang , Schellong Sebastian , Scherg Alexandra , Sedding Daniel , Singler Katrin , Thieme Marcus , Trautwein Christian , Willam Carsten , Werdan Karl
Published: April 2024

In Deutschland qualifiziert sich der Akut- und Notfallmediziner durch eine Facharztweiterbildung in Verbindung mit den Zusatz-Weiterbildungen „Klinische Akut- und Notfallmedizin“ und „Notfallmedizin“ gemäß den Vorgaben der Landesärztekammern, die sich auf die Empfehlungen der Bundesärztekammer beziehen. Eine zentrale Säule in der gebietsübergreifenden notfallmedizinischen Versorgung stellt das Gebiet der Inneren Medizin mit seinen Schwerpunkten dar. Das vorliegende Curriculum gibt einen umfassenden Überblick über internistische Weiterbildungsinhalte der Akut- und Notfallmedizin, die nach Ansicht der internistischen Gesellschaften (Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internistische Intensivmedizin und Notfallmedizin [DGIIN], Deutsche Gesellschaft für Innere Medizin [DGIM] samt Schwerpunktgesellschaften, Berufsverband Deutscher Internistinnen und Internisten [BDI]) für den Erwerb der erforderlichen Kenntnisse und praktischen Fähigkeiten für eine bestmögliche Versorgung der akut- und notfallmedizinischen Patienten aus internistischer Sicht erforderlich scheinen. Das Curriculum stellt zum einen die allgemeinen Aspekte der klinischen Akut- und Notfallmedizin mit den Inhalten Struktur- und Prozessqualität, Erstdiagnostik, Initialtherapie und Indikationsstellung zur weiterführenden Behandlung, Schockraumversorgung, Diagnostik und Monitoring, generelle Therapieverfahren, Hygienemaßnahmen und Pharmakotherapie dar. Anschließend folgen spezifische Aspekte der Akut- und Notfallmedizin (angiologische, endokrinologische, diabetologische und metabolische, gastroenterologische, geriatrische, hämatoonkologische, infektiologische, kardiologische, nephrologische, palliativmedizinische, pneumologische, rheumatologische und toxikologische). Unterlegt sind die Themen jeweils mit auf das Weiterbildungskonzept zugeschnittenen Publikationen. Das Curriculum stellt für Internistinnen und Internisten alle internistischen Weiterbildungsinhalte der o. g. Zusatz-Weiterbildungen dar, zeigt aber auch allen Notfallmedizinern, mit welchen internistischen Krankheitsbildern sie bei ihrer Tätigkeit rechnen müssen.
Characterisation and mapping of a Globodera pallida resistance derived from the wild potato species Solanum spegazzinii
Authors: Gartner Ulrike , Armstrong Miles R. , Sharma Sanjeev K. , Jones John T. , Blok Vivian C. , Hein Ingo , Bryan Glenn J.
Published: April 2024

Key message

A new resistance locus acting against the potato cyst nematode Globodera pallida was mapped to chromosome VI in the diploid wild potato species Solanum spegazzinii CPC 7195.

The potato cyst nematodes (PCN) Globodera pallida and Globodera rostochiensis are economically important potato pests in almost all regions where potato is grown. One important management strategy involves deployment through introgression breeding into modern cultivars of new sources of naturally occurring resistance from wild potato species. We describe a new source of resistance to G. pallida from wild potato germplasm. The diploid species Solanum spegazzinii Bitter accession CPC 7195 shows resistance to G. pallida pathotypes Pa1 and Pa2/3. A cross and first backcross of S. spegazzinii with Solanum tuberosum Group Phureja cultivar Mayan Gold were performed, and the level of resistance to G. pallida Pa2/3 was determined in progeny clones. Bulk-segregant analysis (BSA) using generic mapping enrichment sequencing (GenSeq) and genotyping-by-sequencing were performed to identify single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) that are genetically linked to the resistance, using S. tuberosum Group Phureja clone DM1-3 516 R44 as a reference genome. These SNPs were converted into allele-specific PCR assays, and the resistance was mapped to an interval of roughly 118 kb on chromosome VI. This newly identified resistance, which we call Gpa VIlspg, can be used in future efforts to produce modern cultivars with enhanced and broad-spectrum resistances to the major pests and pathogens of potato.
Isometric Immersions and the Waving of Flags
Authors: Bauer Martin , Møller-Andersen Jakob , Preston Stephen C.
Published: April 2024

In this article we propose a novel geometric model to study the motion of a physical flag. In our approach, a flag is viewed as an isometric immersion from the square with values in $$\mathbb {R}^3$$

R

3

satisfying certain boundary conditions at the flag pole. Under additional regularity constraints we show that the space of all such flags carries the structure of an infinite dimensional manifold and can be viewed as a submanifold of the space of all immersions. In the second part of the article we equip the space of isometric immersions with its natural kinetic energy and derive the corresponding equations of motion. This approach can be viewed in a spirit similar to Arnold’s geometric picture for the motion of an incompressible fluid.
An analytic proof of the stable reduction theorem
Authors: Song Jian , Sturm Jacob , Wang Xiaowei
Published: April 2024

The stable reduction theorem says that a family of curves of genus $$g\ge 2$$

g
≥
2

over a punctured curve can be uniquely completed (after possible base change) by inserting certain stable curves at the punctures. We give a new this result for curves defined over $${\mathbb {C}}$$
C
, using the Kähler–Einstein metrics on the fibers to obtain the limiting stable curves at the punctures.
Arakelov class groups of random number fields
Authors: Bartel Alex , Johnston Henri , Lenstra Hendrik W.
Published: April 2024

The main purpose of the paper is to formulate a probabilistic model for Arakelov class groups in families of number fields, offering a correction to the Cohen–Lenstra–Martinet heuristic on ideal class groups. To that end, we show that Chinburg’s $$\Omega (3)$$

Ω
(
3
)

conjecture implies tight restrictions on the Galois module structure of oriented Arakelov class groups. As a consequence, we construct a new infinite series of counterexamples to the Cohen–Lenstra–Martinet heuristic, which have the novel feature that their Galois groups are non-abelian.
Neuropathic and Nociplastic Pain Profiles are Common in Adult Chronic Nonbacterial Osteitis (CNO)
Authors: Leerling Anne T. , Niesters Marieke , Flendrie Marcel , Tel Marije , Appelman-Dijkstra Natasha M. , Dekkers Olaf M. , Winter Elizabeth M.
Published: April 2024

Chronic nonbacterial osteitis (CNO) is a rare musculoskeletal disease causing chronic bone pain. It is known that chronic musculoskeletal pain may involve other mechanisms than nociceptive pain only. We investigate the prevalence of neuropathic and nociplastic pain in adult CNO and their association with clinical characteristics and treatment outcomes. Survey study among the Dutch adult CNO cohort (n = 84/195 participated), including PAIN-detect for neuropathic pain, and the Central Sensitization Inventory (CSI), Fibromyalgia Rapid Screening Tool (FiRST), and ACTTION-APS Pain Taxonomy (AAPT) for nociplastic pain. Clinical characteristics and CNO-related bone pain scores were compared between patients with exclusive nociceptive pain and those with nociceptive pain plus neuropathic and/or nociplastic pain (mixed pain). 31% (95% CI 21–41) of patients classified as likely having neuropathic pain according to PAIN-detect. 53% (41–64) of patients displayed central sensitization on CSI, 61% (50–72) screened positive for fibromyalgia on FiRST and 14% (7–23) of patients fulfilled the AAPT criteria, all indicative of nociplastic pain. Mixed pain was associated with longer diagnostic delay (mean difference 2.8 years, 95% CI 0.4–5.2, p = 0.023), lower educational level (72% versus 20%, p < 0.001), and opioid use (37% versus 13%, p = 0.036). Despite comparable disease severity and extent, patients with mixed pain reported significantly higher CNO-related bone pain scores. This study demonstrates the high prevalence of mixed pain in adult CNO, in which neuropathic and nociplastic pain exist alongside nociceptive inflammatory bone pain. Disease burden in CNO may extend beyond inflammatory activity, highlighting the need for a multifaceted management approach.