bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sampling, characterization, method validation, and lessons learned in analysis of highly activated stainless steel from reactor decommissioning
Authors: Leskinen Anumaija , Salminen-Paatero Susanna , Leporanta Jussi , Hytönen Noora , Bourgeaux-Goget Marie , Räty Antti
Published: October 2023

Characterisation of activated reactor components is a multifaceted effort, which include both experimental work and activation calculations which together form a comprehensive characterisation approach. However, both the experimental work and activation calculations have their constraints and uncertainties. This work presents the characterisation of a highly activated stainless steel pipe including sampling planning, sampling, sub-sampling, elemental and radionuclide analyses, and activation calculations. 55Fe, 63Ni and 60Co analyses were carried out in a trilateral intercomparison exercise and the results were compared with activation calculations. The results showed excellent alignment between experimental and activation calculation results.
Identifying the Health Concerns of Pregnant British Pakistani Women Living in Deprived Areas: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Iqbal Halima , West Jane , McEachan Rosemary R. C. , Haith-Cooper Melanie
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Pregnant British Pakistani women have disproportionately poorer health than the wider population. Bradford has a strong Pakistani presence and a wide range of public health problems including high levels of gestational diabetes, high obesity rates and a high infant mortality rate, which is highest for babies of Pakistani origin. For women to be healthy, we need to know what concerns they have about their health so they can be addressed appropriately. The aim of this study, therefore, was to explore the health concerns of pregnant British Pakistani women living in deprived areas.

Methods

Semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted with 21 pregnant Pakistani women in a hospital setting. Data were analysed using thematic analysis.

Results

Pakistani women identified safety issues, barriers to undertaking physical activity in the areas where they live, concerns surrounding exercising during pregnancy and cultural and religious constraints that prevented them from engaging in physical activity. They reported issues around food, concerns around a lack of culturally appropriate diet information, the cost of unhealthy food locally, and the lack of healthy food options in their residences. Women were unsure on where to obtain health promotion information and reported a lack of access in obtaining that information. Language barriers in accessing health promotion information were further reported as a concern.

Discussion

Researchers, midwives, health providers, local authority and policy makers interested in improving the health of pregnant Pakistani women may use these findings to develop further research and interventions to improve the poor health of this population.
Identification of health-related quality of life profiles among long-term survivors of primary central nervous system tumors
Authors: Stockdill Macy L. , Mendoza Tito , Armstrong Terri S. , Miaskowski Christine , Cooper Bruce , Vera Elizabeth
Published: October 2023

Purpose

We aimed to identify health-related quality of life (HRQOL) latent classes among primary central nervous system tumor (PCNST) long-term survivors (LTS) and to evaluate differences between classes in survivor sociodemographic characteristics, clinical characteristics, and symptoms to guide  the development of survivorship care programs tailored to unique class needs.

Methods

Data from 298 PCNST LTS reporting HRQOL on the EQ-5D-3L were analyzed using latent profile analysis. Correlations and independent group t-tests were performed to identify differences between identified HRQOL classes by sociodemographic, clinical characteristics, and symptoms.

Results

Sample mean age was 48 years, 54% were male, 82% Caucasian, 56% employed, 60% had a high-grade glioma, and 52% had a KPS ≥ 90. Two HRQOL classes, good (61%) and poor (39%), were identified. The good HRQOL class reported no problems with self-care and few problems with mobility or usual activities. Thirty-eight percent reported anxiety and depression and 21% pain. Over 94% of the poor HRQOL class had at least moderate problems with mobility and usual activities, and over 50% had pain, self-care issues, anxiety, and depression. Older age (φ = 0.21), unemployment (φ = 0.30), spine tumors (φ = 0.18), active treatment (φ = 0.20), tumor recurrence (φ = 0.28), and poorer KPS scores (φ = 0.61) were associated with membership in the poor HRQOL class.

Conclusions

In the poor PCNST LTS HRQOL class, an overwhelming majority faced significant physical challenges, and the good HRQOL class experienced mood-related disturbance but limited physical challenges. These HRQOL profiles can be used to guide survivorship programs and tailored interventions.
The slope of assimilation rate against stomatal conductance should not be used as a measure of water use efficiency or stomatal control over assimilation
Authors: Bellasio Chandra
Published: October 2023

Quantifying water use efficiency, and the impact of stomata on CO2 uptake are pivotal in physiology and efforts to improve crop yields. Although tempting, relying on regression slopes from assimilation-stomatal conductance plots to estimate water use efficiency or stomatal control over assimilation is erroneous. Through numerical simulations, I substantiate this assertion. I propose the term ‘instantaneous transpiration efficiency’ for the assimilation-to-transpiration ratio to avoid confusion with ‘intrinsic water use efficiency’ which refers to the assimilation-to-stomatal conductance ratio, and recommend to compute both metrics for each gas exchange data point.
Quality of patient-reported outcome measures for primary dysmenorrhea: a systematic review
Authors: Piontek Katharina , Gabes Michaela , Kann Gesina , Fechtner Marie , Apfelbacher Christian
Published: October 2023

Purpose

To conduct a systematic review of the quality of patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) for primary dysmenorrhea (PDys) using the COnsensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement INstruments (COSMIN) methodology, and to derive recommendations for use of the PROMs.

Methods

We searched PubMed and Web of Science for studies reporting on the development and/or validation of any PROMs for women with PDys. Applying the COSMIN Risk of Bias Checklist, we assessed the methodological quality of each included study. We further evaluated the quality of measurement properties per PROM and study according to the criteria for good measurement properties, and graded the evidence. Based on the overall evidence, we derived recommendations for the use of the included PROMs.

Results

Data from seven studies reporting on four PROMs addressing different outcomes were included. Among those, the Adolescent Dysmenorrhic Self-Care Scale (ADSCS) and the on-menses version of the Dysmenorrhea Symptom Interference Scale (DSI) can be recommended for use. The Exercise of Self-Care Agency Scale (ESCAS) and the Dysmenorrhea Daily Diary (DysDD) have the potential to be recommended for use, but require further validation. The off-menses version of the DSI cannot be recommended for use.

Conclusions

The ADSCS can be recommended for the assessment of self-care behavior in PDys. Regarding measures of impact, the on-menses version of the DSI is a suitable tool. Covering the broadest spectrum of outcomes, the DysDD is promising for use in medical care and research, encouraging further investigations. Further validation studies are indicated for all included PROMs.
Which Elections? A Dilemma for Proponents of the Duty to Vote
Authors: Rusavuk Andre Leo
Published: October 2023

Proponents of the duty to vote (DTV) argue that in normal circumstances, citizens have the moral duty to vote in political elections. Discussions about DTV analyze what the duty is, who has this duty, when they have it, and why they have it. Missing are answers to the Specification Question: to which elections does DTV apply? A dilemma arises for some supporters of DTV—in this paper, I focus on Julia Maskivker’s work—because either answer is problematic. First, I argue that it is implausible that DTV applies to all elections because this makes the duty too costly for the voter. Second, I argue that there are no good reasons why under normal circumstances DTV applies only to some elections. I consider objections but conclude that the dilemma is successful and therefore the case for DTV is incomplete.
Penalty or Reward? The Role of Hybrid Identities in Social Enterprises’ Resource Acquisition
Authors: Ji Chen , Konrath Sara
Published: October 2023

Resource acquisition is important for social enterprises’ resilience. Prior studies have explored social enterprises’ hybridity and resource acquisition outcomes, but have ignored funders’ heterogeneity. This paper examines how the identities of both social enterprises and financial resource providers are associated with financial resource acquisition. We specifically study how social enterprises’ social and financial identities are related to the acquisition of financial resources. Using an international entrepreneurship database (2014–2019), we find that social enterprises receive financial support from equity investors in a similar way as pure for-profits, while social enterprises receive less support from philanthropic donors, compared to pure nonprofits. We discuss the implications for social entrepreneurship research and practice.
Effects of Multistage Aging Treatment on the Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of α + β-Type Ti-6Al-7Nb Alloy
Authors: Awad Ahmed H. , El-Hadad Shimaa , Ahmed Mostafa , Elshaer Ramadan N.
Published: October 2023

The influence of multistage heat treatments on the microstructure and mechanical properties of Ti-6Al-7Nb alloy used for functional structures was systematically studied. Cast Ti-6Al-7Nb alloy samples were subjected to hot forging, annealing, and multiple stages of heat treatments. The relationship between volume fraction of α-phase and the mechanical properties was investigated. Herein, multiple heat treatment steps were selected based on the dilatometric analysis, at the end of the beta transformation and the start of the beta transformation, followed by aging at low temperature, i.e., 500 °C. A higher volume fraction of α-phase leads to higher strength but lower ductility. The yield, ultimate tensile strengths, and ductility of the annealed alloy are 822 MPa, 1019 MPa, and 10%, respectively. The corresponding values for the alloy treated at 900 °C followed by WQ are 777 MPa, 932 MPa, and 16%, while the aged alloy has 879 MPa, 967 MPa, and 12%, respectively. A trade-off between strength and ductility was attained. Besides, the microstructural evolution of the studied conditions was also covered in depth.

Graphical Abstract
Estimation of stability index for symmetric $$\alpha $$-stable distribution using quantile conditional variance ratios
Authors: Pączek Kewin , Jelito Damian , Pitera Marcin , Wyłomańska Agnieszka
Published: October 2023

The class of$$\alpha $$α-stable distributions is widely used in various applications, especially for modeling heavy-tailed data. Although the$$\alpha $$α-stable distributions have been used in practice for many years, new methods for identification, testing, and estimation are still being refined and new approaches are being proposed. The constant development of new statistical methods is related to the low efficiency of existing algorithms, especially when the underlying sample is small or the distribution is close to Gaussian. In this paper, we propose a new estimation algorithm for the stability index, for samples from the symmetric$$\alpha $$α-stable distribution. The proposed approach is based on a quantile conditional variance ratio. We study the statistical properties of the proposed estimation procedure and show empirically that our methodology often outperforms other commonly used estimation algorithms. Moreover, we show that our statistic extracts unique sample characteristics that can be combined with other methods to refine existing methodologies via ensemble methods. Although our focus is set on the symmetric$$\alpha $$α-stable case, we demonstrate that the considered statistic is insensitive to the skewness parameter change, so our method could be also used in a more generic framework. For completeness, we also show how to apply our method to real data linked to financial market and plasma physics.
Location optimization of on-campus bicycle-sharing electronic fences
Authors: Fu Jiali , Shi Yuqian , Hu Yujia , Ming Yue , Zou Bipan
Published: October 2023

In the bicycle-sharing operation network, the mismatch between supply and demand as well as indiscriminate bicycle parking have caused the waste of resources and increased management costs for operators. This study presents design of a bike-sharing electronic fences location developed for Hunan University of Technology and Business. In this paper, we constructed Site Selection Model with Constrained Service Level and use Hybrid Genetic & Annealing algorithm (HGAA) to adjust the location of electronic fences to balance the supply and demand of sharing bicycles with the objective function of minimizing the cost and ensuring the service level, and we use Hunan University of Technology and Industry as an example to verify the effectiveness of the method.
Design and Implementation of Physical Education Teaching Management System Based on Multi-agent Model
Authors: Xie Shaokang , Xu Jiayun
Published: October 2023

The traditional physical education (PE) teaching management system is usually controlled and managed by a single center, which cannot meet the diversified and personalized teaching needs. Therefore, the research of PE teaching management system based on multi-agent mode has become an important direction. The purpose of this paper was to discuss how to improve the effect and quality of PE teaching and enhance students' learning enthusiasm and initiative through the design of multi-agent mode PE teaching management system. The PE teaching management system based on multi-agent mode provides more flexible and personalized teaching management services by utilizing the cooperation and interaction between agents, realizes the information exchange between teachers and students, provides real-time teaching feedback and evaluation, and promotes the sharing and collaboration of teaching resources. Therefore, the operating efficiency of the conventional physical education management system was the highest at 75% and the lowest at 67%, according to the experimental findings of this paper. The multi-agent model-based management system for physical education had a 95 percent maximum operating efficiency and an 88% minimum operational efficiency. The minimum difference between the two was 21%, and the maximum difference was 20%. It can be seen that the operation efficiency of the physical education management system based on the multi-agent model is more advantageous and more stable.
Bilateral trade of films, religion, and democracy (2002–2015)
Authors: Costa Maria Gabriella Oliveira , Nishijima Marislei , Schor Adriana , Perlotti Edgar Antônio
Published: October 2023

Some studies have already expressed the importance of cultural traits as key determinants of international trade in cultural goods. However, since a film is a cultural good and an important tool to promote cultural influence by soft power, we investigate whether the lack of democracy and different religions can be viewed as barriers to international trade. Religions, similar to autocracies, do not have good eyes for some types of behaviors that film consumption can instigate. Thus, focusing on conditional correlations between bilateral trade of films, religion, and democracy level, we employ a gravity framework using data between 2002 and 2015. As far as we are aware, this study signifies the pioneering effort to comprehensively examine these potential barriers collectively. Results indicate that democracy levels and different religions are potential barriers to film international trade.
Hablando at home: Examining the interactional resources of a bilingual autistic child
Authors: COHEN S. R. , WISHARD GUERRA A. , MIGUEL J. , BOTTEMA-BEUTEL K. , OLIVEIRA G.
Published: October 2023

Daily language interactions predict child outcomes. For multilingual families who rear neurodiverse children and who may be minoritized for their language use, a dearth of research examines families’ daily language interactions. Utilizing a language socialization framework and a case study methodology, 4,991 English and Spanish utterances from a 5-year old autistic child and his family were collected during naturally occurring interactions over 10 days. Utterances were analyzed for patterns of code-switching by speaker, activity setting, English or Spanish initial language, and code-switch function. Spanish was spoken in most activities. For reading, both languages were equally employed by the father. While participants used both languages across all activity settings, significant variations in code-switching type and function were observed by activity setting and speaker. We discuss implications for how home language resources can be integrated into autism interventions.
Guangdong Lightning Mapping Array: Errors Evaluation and Preliminary Results
Authors: Zhang Huiyi , Zhang Yang , Fan Yanfeng , Zhang Yijun , Krehbiel Paul R. , Lyu Weitao
Published: October 2023

The Guangdong Lightning Mapping Array (GDLMA), as the first LMA in China, was deployed in Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China, in November 2018 by the Chinese Academy of Meteorological Sciences and New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology. An evaluation was conducted using Monte Carlo and an aircraft track. The average timing uncertainty of GDLMA is 35 ns based on the distributions of reduced chi‐square values. Based on the aircraft track, the average horizontal error is 13 m and the average vertical error is 41 m at an altitude of 4–5 km over the network, consistent with the Monte Carlo results. Location errors outside the network exhibit noticeable directionality. The ability to characterize lightning channels varies with different location errors. In locations that are far from the network center, only the basic structure of lightning flash can be presented, while closer to the network, the flash channel structure can be mapped well. Compared with Low‐to‐Mid Frequency E‐field Detection Array (MLFEDA), they were generally similar in overall structure, and some lightning flash characteristics such as flash duration and coverage area exhibited consistency. However, GDLMA demonstrated better flash channel structure characterization capability, while MLFEDA performed better in processes such as leader/return strokes. In addition, based on the comparison of spatial positions of one‐on‐one discharge events, we found that very high frequency sources were more located ahead of low frequency sources in the direction of lightning channel development.
Reconstruction of Near‐Surface Hourly Wind Speed Data Sets During the Period 1959–2021 Over China
Authors: Cheng Chad Shouquan , Yang Shufeng , Zhu Jian , Yang Tao , Nie Gaozhen , Tang Jian , Lu Yanyan
Published: October 2023

The reconstruction models of hourly 10‐m wind speeds were developed for each of 2384 stations over China using stepwise regression, random forest and XGBoost machine learning approaches based on hourly observed and ERA5 reanalysis data from 2005 to 2021. The reconstruction procedures applied observed hourly data to reduce the systematic biases of reanalysis data sets. Furthermore, the procedures employed the past dynamically consistent states of the atmosphere simulated by ERA5 reanalysis techniques to reduce/remove wind‐observed data impacts of long‐term non‐meteorological condition changes over time (e.g., urbanization around weather stations), which provide homogenous hourly wind speed data sets from 1959 to 2021. The systematic errors of the models' simulations derived from three approaches are similarly small, with almost two orders of magnitude smaller than ERA5 original data sets. The systematic errors of reconstructed data sets derived from stepwise regression are similar to its simulation; however, the biases from two machine learning methods are even much greater than ERA5 original data sets. This result implies that machine learning methods are not suitable for such typical time‐series predictions using the previous‐hour wind speed as a predictor to reconstruct wind speed data for the next hour. Therefore, stepwise regression was selected to reconstruct hourly wind speed data sets, which have much better quality than ERA5 reanalysis data with the median correctness increased by >50% and the median rRMSE decreased by 25%–50%. Consequently, the reconstructed wind speed data sets have great potential to be useful for more precisely assessing the characteristics/trends of wind energy resources in the past 60 years over China.
Design and Instrument Characterization of the High‐Energy Resolution Relativistic Electron Telescope (HERT) Using Geant4 Simulation
Authors: Krantz Skyler , Zhao Hong , Blum Lauren , Li Xinlin , Cantilina Jared
Published: October 2023

Earth's outer radiation belt is filled with relativistic (∼100s of keV–3 MeV) and ultrarelativistic (∼>3 MeV) electrons. The acceleration of electrons to these high energies are believed to be caused by inward radial transport and local acceleration, but the relative importance of the two mechanisms to electrons with different energies are still under considerate debate. In the post Van Allen Probes era, measurements of radiation belt populations must rely on small space missions such as CubeSats and SmallSats. The Miniaturized High‐Energy‐Resolution relativistic electron Telescope (HERT) is a compact (≤3U) telescope designed for a CubeSat mission in geosynchronous transfer orbit (GTO). HERT's main objective is to provide high‐energy‐resolution measurements of outer belt electrons in an energy range of ∼1–7 MeV to help differentiate the contribution of inward radial transport and local acceleration. Geant4 simulations were conducted to characterize the instrument responses. A novel method of using a spherical cap particle source in Geant4 simulation was developed for more efficient instrument characterization. Combined with Bow tie analysis, it is demonstrated that HERT will have an energy resolution of 5% for ∼1.5–3 MeV electrons and 12% for ∼3–7 MeV with current electronics design. In addition, using the AE9 model, we showed the instrument would have statistically sufficient count rates in the outer belt while not saturating the electronics. With a compact configuration and higher energy resolution in comparison to previous instruments, HERT will significantly contribute to the quantitative understanding of the radiation belt electron dynamics.
Ionospheric Flow Vortex Induced by the Sudden Decrease in the Solar Wind Dynamic Pressure
Authors: Jin Yaqi , Moen Jøran Idar , Spicher Andres , Liu Jianjun , Clausen Lasse B. N. , Miloch Wojciech J.
Published: October 2023

Abrupt changes in the solar wind dynamic pressure can greatly affect the Earth's magnetosphere‐ionosphere system. We present an ionospheric flow vortex in the morning sector during the sudden decrease in the solar wind dynamic pressure. The flow vortex was clearly observed by both the Hankasalmi radar and the azimuthal scan mode of the European Incoherent Scatter (EISCAT) Svalbard Radar (ESR). The flow vortex was first seen in the eastern field of view (FOV) of the Hankasalmi radar, and then propagated poleward and westward into the FOV of the ESR. During the passage of the flow vortex, a gradual decrease of electron density was observed by the field‐aligned ESR 42 m antenna. When the equatorward directed ionospheric flow reached the ESR site, weak and visible increases in the electron density and electron temperature were observed. This impact was likely caused by soft electron precipitation associated with the clockwise flow vortex and upward field‐aligned current. The azimuthal scan mode of the ESR 32 m radar at low elevation angle (30°) allowed us to measure key ionospheric parameters over a larger area (6° in latitude and 120° in azimuthal angle). The latitudinal scan of the electron temperature was used to proxy the equatorward auroral boundary, which shows that the flow vortex was located in the subauroral region. We further demonstrated that it is possible to study the weak increase of electron density by using GPS total electron content (TEC) data. A minor TEC increase was observed near the center of the flow vortex.
Electron Dynamics and Whistler‐Mode Waves Inside the Short Large‐Amplitude Magnetic Field Structures
Authors: Bai Shi‐Chen , Shi Quanqi , Zhang Hui , Guo Ruilong , Shen Xiao‐Chen , Liu Terry Z. , Degeling Alexander W. , Tian Anmin , Bu Yude , Zhang Shuai , Wang Mengmeng , Ma Xiao
Published: October 2023

We investigate the electron dynamics and generation of whistler‐mode waves inside a short large‐amplitude magnetic structure (SLAMS) based on Magnetospheric Multiscale Satellite observations and test particle simulations. The buildup of energetic reflected ions caused by the SLAMS's intense magnetic fields favors the resonance condition of solar wind ions of ion‐ion non‐resonant mode. This might further steepen the SLAMS, leading to the Betatron acceleration of electrons and generating the whistler‐mode waves locally ahead of the peak of the magnetic field. In regions behind the peaked magnetic field, electrons are decelerated by the convection electric field during gradient drift and the whistler‐mode waves are rapidly decayed. Our study provides new insights into electron acceleration and the generation of whistler‐mode waves near the quasi‐parallel shock.
Relationship Between Explosive and Effusive Volcanism in the Montes Apenninus Region of the Moon
Authors: Pigue L. M. , Bennett K. A. , Horgan B. H. N. , Gaddis L. R.
Published: October 2023

Lunar Pyroclastic Deposits (LPDs) are sites of explosive volcanism and often occur in areas of effusive volcanism on the Moon. On Earth, it has been observed that most volcanism has both effusive and explosive phases, whereas on the Moon, these two types of volcanism have typically been considered separately. We hypothesize that the relationship between explosive and effusive volcanism on the Moon is similar to what is observed on the Earth, where individual eruptions can experience multiple phases rather than one type of volcanism always preceding another or occurring separately. We present observations from the Moon Mineralogy Mapper detailing compositional relationships between volcanic features in the lunar Montes Apenninus region. We evaluated whether co‐located LPDs and effusive features (e.g., rilles, mare) could have erupted from the same volcanic vent or even at the same time based on their compositional similarities and stratigraphic relationships. We found that the LPDs have varied stratigraphic relationships with co‐located effusive features. We identified LPDs near sinuous rilles that may be related to the formation of the rille, where explosive and effusive volcanism occurred at the same vent (e.g., Mozart Rille), and LPDs that may be unrelated to the rille (e.g., Rimae Bode and Rima Bode LPD). Our results suggest that lunar volcanism can mirror terrestrial volcanism, with explosive and effusive eruptions demonstrating more complex dynamics and relationships than previously thought. This variability suggests that the relationship between LPDs and nearby volcanic features cannot be generalized for studies on their resource potential, eruption styles, or deposit volume.
The Role of Riverine Bed Roughness, Egg Pocket Location, and Egg Pocket Permeability on Salmonid Redd‐Induced Hyporheic Flows
Authors: Bhattarai Bishal , Hilliard Brandon , Reeder William J. , Budwig Ralph , Martin Benjamin T. , Xing Tao , Tonina Daniele
Published: October 2023

Salmon spawning activities alter streambed morphology, forming a dune‐shaped egg nest called a redd. The spawning process increases redd sediment hydraulic conductivity, KD, by removing fines, creating an egg pocket with larger sediment grains such that egg pocket hydraulic conductivity, KEP, may be higher than KD. Salmon females may create one or more egg pockets within a single redd. Although the impact of redd shape and KD on redd‐induced hyporheic fluxes has been studied, the effects of streambed roughness, R, egg pocket permeability, and egg pocket location on egg pocket hyporheic fluxes, , (downwelling flows from the stoss side of the redd which may enter egg pockets) have not yet been quantified. This study investigates this knowledge gap with a set of numerical simulations supported by flume experiments. We simulated hyporheic flows for five egg pocket locations, five KEP values from 0.0025 to 0.02 m/s, and 12 rough streambed surfaces. Surface roughness was scaled from a measured streambed surface in two ways—only vertically (R1) and both vertically and horizontally (R2)—with scaling coefficients ranging from 0.5 to 3. The measured streambed surface had a median diameter, D50, of 1 cm and a standard deviation (σD) of 0.77 cm. The results indicate that the dimensionless flux into the egg pocket, increases noticeably with the downstream distance of egg pockets from the redd pit, and less strongly with . The near‐surface downwelling fluxes significantly increase with R1, but only negligibly with R2, and for deeper egg pockets, is minimally impacted by surface roughness. Our results suggest that the typical simplification of a smooth redd surface with a single redd hydraulic conductivity provides a good representation of the interstitial flow within the redd, and the effects of surface roughness and egg pocket hydraulic conductivity on fall within the uncertainty of the egg pocket location.
The impact of cumulative obstetric complications and childhood trauma on brain volume in young people with psychotic experiences
Authors: Merritt Kate , Luque Laguna Pedro , Sethi Arjun , Drakesmith Mark , Ashley Sarah A. , Bloomfield Michael , Fonville Leon , Perry Gavin , Lancaster Tom , Dimitriadis Stavros I. , Zammit Stanley , Evans C. John , Lewis Glyn , Kempton Matthew J. , Linden David E. J. , Reichenberg Abraham , Jones Derek K. , David Anthony S.
Published: October 2023

Psychotic experiences (PEs) occur in 5–10% of the general population and are associated with exposure to childhood trauma and obstetric complications. However, the neurobiological mechanisms underlying these associations are unclear. Using the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC), we studied 138 young people aged 20 with PEs (n = 49 suspected, n = 53 definite, n = 36 psychotic disorder) and 275 controls. Voxel-based morphometry assessed whether MRI measures of grey matter volume were associated with (i) PEs, (ii) cumulative childhood psychological trauma (weighted summary score of 6 trauma types), (iii) cumulative pre/peri-natal risk factors for psychosis (weighted summary score of 16 risk factors), and (iv) the interaction between PEs and cumulative trauma or pre/peri-natal risk. PEs were associated with smaller left posterior cingulate (pFWE < 0.001, Z = 4.19) and thalamus volumes (pFWE = 0.006, Z = 3.91). Cumulative pre/perinatal risk was associated with smaller left subgenual cingulate volume (pFWE < 0.001, Z = 4.54). A significant interaction between PEs and cumulative pre/perinatal risk found larger striatum (pFWE = 0.04, Z = 3.89) and smaller right insula volume extending into the supramarginal gyrus and superior temporal gyrus (pFWE = 0.002, Z = 4.79), specifically in those with definite PEs and psychotic disorder. Cumulative childhood trauma was associated with larger left dorsal striatum (pFWE = 0.002, Z = 3.65), right prefrontal cortex (pFWE < 0.001, Z = 4.63) and smaller left insula volume in all participants (pFWE = 0.03, Z = 3.60), and there was no interaction with PEs group. In summary, pre/peri-natal risk factors and childhood psychological trauma impact similar brain pathways, namely smaller insula and larger striatum volumes. The effect of pre/perinatal risk was greatest in those with more severe PEs, whereas effects of trauma were seen in all participants. In conclusion, environmental risk factors affect brain networks implicated in schizophrenia, which may increase an individual’s propensity to develop later psychotic disorders.
A practical approach for adoption of a hub and spoke model for cell and gene therapies in low- and middle-income countries: framework and case studies
Authors: Saleh Shadi , Dabbous Omar , Sullivan Sean D. , Ankleshwaria Dipen , Trombini Daiane , Toumi Mondher , Diaa Mahmoud , Patel Anish , Kazazoglu Taylor Burcu , Tunis Sean
Published: October 2023

In the rapidly evolving landscape of biotechnologies, cell and gene therapies are being developed and adopted at an unprecedented pace. However, their access and adoption remain limited, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). This study aims to address this critical gap by exploring the potential of applying a hub and spoke model for cell and gene therapy delivery in LMICs. We establish the identity and roles of relevant stakeholders, propose a hub and spoke model for cell and gene therapy delivery, and simulate its application in Brazil and the Middle East and North Africa. The development and simulation of this model were informed by a comprehensive review of academic articles, grey literature, relevant websites, and publicly available data sets. The proposed hub and spoke model is expected to expand availability of and access to cell and gene therapy in LMICs and presents a comprehensive framework for the roles of core stakeholders, laying the groundwork for more equitable access to these lifesaving therapies. More research is needed to explore the practical adoption and implications of this model.
Chemical proteomics reveals the target landscape of 1,000 kinase inhibitors
Authors: Reinecke Maria , Brear Paul , Vornholz Larsen , Berger Benedict-Tilmann , Seefried Florian , Wilhelm Stephanie , Samaras Patroklos , Gyenis Laszlo , Litchfield David William , Médard Guillaume , Müller Susanne , Ruland Jürgen , Hyvönen Marko , Wilhelm Mathias , Kuster Bernhard
Published: October 2023

Medicinal chemistry has discovered thousands of potent protein and lipid kinase inhibitors. These may be developed into therapeutic drugs or chemical probes to study kinase biology. Because of polypharmacology, a large part of the human kinome currently lacks selective chemical probes. To discover such probes, we profiled 1,183 compounds from drug discovery projects in lysates of cancer cell lines using Kinobeads. The resulting 500,000 compound–target interactions are available in ProteomicsDB and we exemplify how this molecular resource may be used. For instance, the data revealed several hundred reasonably selective compounds for 72 kinases. Cellular assays validated GSK986310C as a candidate SYK (spleen tyrosine kinase) probe and X-ray crystallography uncovered the structural basis for the observed selectivity of the CK2 inhibitor GW869516X. Compounds targeting PKN3 were discovered and phosphoproteomics identified substrates that indicate target engagement in cells. We anticipate that this molecular resource will aid research in drug discovery and chemical biology.
Personalized relapse prediction in patients with major depressive disorder using digital biomarkers
Authors: Vairavan Srinivasan , Rashidisabet Homa , Li Qingqin S. , Ness Seth , Morrison Randall L. , Soares Claudio N. , Uher Rudolf , Frey Benicio N. , Lam Raymond W. , Kennedy Sidney H. , Trivedi Madhukar , Drevets Wayne C. , Narayan Vaibhav A.
Published: October 2023

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a chronic illness wherein relapses contribute to significant patient morbidity and mortality. Near-term prediction of relapses in MDD patients has the potential to improve outcomes by helping implement a ‘predict and preempt’ paradigm in clinical care. In this study, we developed a novel personalized (N-of-1) encoder-decoder anomaly detection-based framework of combining anomalies in multivariate actigraphy features (passive) as triggers to utilize an active concurrent self-reported symptomatology questionnaire (core symptoms of depression and anxiety) to predict near-term relapse in MDD. The framework was evaluated on two independent longitudinal observational trials, characterized by regular bimonthly (every other month) in-person clinical assessments, weekly self-reported symptom assessments, and continuous activity monitoring data with two different wearable sensors for ≥ 1 year or until the first relapse episode. This combined passive-active relapse prediction framework achieved a balanced accuracy of ≥ 71%, false alarm rate of ≤ 2.3 alarm/patient/year with a median relapse detection time of 2–3 weeks in advance of clinical onset in both studies. The study results suggest that the proposed personalized N-of-1 prediction framework is generalizable and can help predict a majority of MDD relapses in an actionable time frame with relatively low patient and provider burden.
Utilization of synthesized silane-based silica Janus nanoparticles to improve foam stability applicable in oil production: static study
Authors: Saeedi Dehaghani Amir Hossein , Gharibshahi Reza , Mohammadi Mohammad
Published: October 2023

This study investigated the effect of silane-based silica (SiO2) Janus nanoparticles (JNPs) on stabilizing the foam generated by different types of gases. Two types of SiO2 JNPs were synthesized through surface modification using HMDS and APTS silane compounds. Static analyses were conducted to examine the impact of different concentrations of the synthesized nanoparticles in various atmospheres (air, CO2, and CH4) on surface tension, foamability, and foam stability. The results indicated that the synthesized SiO2 JNPs and bare SiO2 nanoparticles exhibited nearly the same ability to reduce surface tension at ambient temperature and pressure. Both of these nanoparticles reduced the surface tension from 71 to 58–59 mN m−1 at 15,000 ppm and 25 °C. While bare SiO2 nanoparticles exhibited no foamability, the synthesis of SiO2 JNPs significantly enhanced their ability to generate and stabilize gas foam. The foamability of HMDS-SiO2 JNPs started at a higher concentration than APTS-SiO2 JNPs (6000 ppm compared to 4000 ppm, respectively). The type of gas atmosphere played a crucial role in the efficiency of the synthesized JNPs. In a CH4 medium, the foamability of synthesized JNPs was superior to that in air and CO2. At a concentration of 1500 ppm in a CH4 medium, HMDS-SiO2 and APTS-SiO2 JNPs could stabilize the generated foam for 36 and 12 min, respectively. Due to the very low dissolution of CO2 gas in water at ambient pressure, the potential of synthesized JNPs decreased in this medium. Finally, it was found that HMDS-SiO2 JNPs exhibited better foamability and foam stability in all gas mediums compared to APTS-SiO2 JNPs for use in oil reservoirs. Also, the optimal performance of these JNPs was observed at a concentration of 15,000 ppm in a methane gas medium.
Morphological investigation and 3D simulation of plasmonic nanostructures to improve the efficiency of perovskite solar cells
Authors: Mohammadi Mohammad Hosein , Eskandari Mehdi , Fathi Davood
Published: October 2023

The light absorption process is a key factor in improving the performance of perovskite solar cells (PSCs). Using arrays of metal nanostructures on semiconductors such as perovskite (CH3NH3PbI3), the amount of light absorption in these layers is significantly increased. Metal nanostructures have been considered for their ability to excite plasmons (collective oscillations of free electrons). Noble metal nanoparticles placed inside solar cells, by increasing the scattering of the incident light, effectively increase the optical absorption inside PSCs; this in turn increases the electric current generated in the photovoltaic device. In this work, by calculating the cross-sectional area of dispersion and absorption on gold (Au) nanoparticles, the effects of the position of nanoparticles in the active layer (AL) and their morphology on the increase of absorption within the PSC are investigated. The optimal position of the plasmonic nanoparticle was obtained in the middle of the AL using a three-dimensional simulation method. Then, three different morphologies of nano-sphere, nano-star and nano-cubes were investigated, where the short-circuit currents (Jsc) for these three nanostructures were obtained equal to 19.01, 18.66 and 20.03 mA/cm2, respectively. In our study, the best morphology of the nanostructure according to the Jsc value was related to the nano-cube, in which the device power conversion efficiency was equal to 16.20%, which is about 15% better than the PSC with the planar architecture.
Multifunctional solar water harvester with high transport selectivity and fouling rejection capacity
Authors: Hao Xuanzhang , Yao Houze , Zhang Panpan , Liao Qihua , Zhu Kaixuan , Chang Jian , Cheng Huhu , Yuan Jiayin , Qu Liangti
Published: October 2023

Shortage of clean water continues to grow around the world, and the recent solar-powered interfacial system has emerged as a sustainable, efficient and CO2-neutral approach to produce clean water. However, complex contaminants in surface water accompanied with environment pollution set huge obstacles for harvesting clean water via previous strategies. Here we develop a solar-powered graphene/alginate hydrogel (GAH)-based clean water extractor of super resistance to the transport of complex contaminants and ultra-antifouling capacity. This GAH features a high selectivity in water transport by rejecting >99.5% of volatile organic compounds, >99.3% of ions (Na+, Mg2+, K+ and Ca2+) and 100% of non-volatile organic compounds and bacteria; meanwhile, GAH is capable of rejecting oil adhesion by forming a large contact angle >140° under water, deactivating nearly 100% bacteria on surface and preventing salt crystallization. Given such promising adaptability to a wide environment, this GAH can directly convert surface water of complex components into safe drinkable water.
Quantitative analysis of Cd based on the stress effect of minerals in rice by laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy
Authors: Fu Gangrong , Hu Wei , Xie Weiping , Yao Xiaoying , Xu Jiang , Yang Ping , Yao Mingyin
Published: October 2023

Cadmium (Cd) is a highly toxic heavy metal that can accumulate in the food chain, posing a significant threat to human health.
Catechol-tetraethylenepentamine co-deposition modified cellulose filter paper for α-glucosidase immobilization and inhibitor screening from traditional Chinese medicine
Authors: Wan Guang-Zhen , Zhang Chun-Lin , Chen Juan
Published: October 2023

Cellulose filter paper (CFP) is expected to be an ideal carrier for enzyme immobilization due to its sustainability and biocompatibility.
Understanding the charge transfer dynamics of the Cu2WS4–CNT–FeOOH ternary composite for photo-electrochemical studies
Authors: Dagar Preeti , Ghorai Nandan , Bungla Manisha , Ghosh Hirendra N. , Ganguli Ashok K.
Published: October 2023

Cu2WS4 has been modified with multi walled carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and FeOOH to achieve a prolonged charge carrier separation.
Uniting Young's modulus and the flexibility of solid-state electrolytes for high-performance Li-batteries at room temperature
Authors: Zhao Haitao , Zhang Yan , Zhao Zehua , Xue Zhuangzhuang , Li Lei
Published: October 2023

A sandwich-structured solid composite electrolyte is designed to unite Young's modulus and flexibility, two co-existing contrary mechanical properties, resulting in the effective suppression of Li dendrites and improved contact with the electrode.
A paper-embedded thermoplastic microdevice integrating additive-enhanced allele-specific amplification and silver nanoparticle-based colorimetric detection for point-of-care testing
Authors: Thai Duc Anh , Park Seung Kyun , Lee Nae Yoon
Published: October 2023

We introduce a microdevice integrating additive-enhanced allele-specific LAMP and AgNP-based detection for point-of-care testing of sickle cell anemia, hair loss, and the opportunistic pathogen, Enterococcus faecium.
Rapid preparation of Ag/CoO/rGO composites for electrochemical detection of hydrogen peroxide
Authors: Song He , He Jie , Pan Peng , Liu Jun , Yang Zhengchun , Shen Haodong , Zeng Peifeng
Published: October 2023

The preparation process of the Ag/CoO/rGO SPE was described, along with the material characterization and electrochemical performance using laser etching technology.
Computational insights into novel benzenesulfonamide-1,3,4-thiadiazole hybrids as a possible VEGFR-2 inhibitor: design, synthesis and anticancer evaluation with molecular dynamics studies
Authors: Bondock Samir , Albarqi Tallah , Abdou Moaz M. , Mohamed Nada M.
Published: October 2023

Thiadiazole benzenesulfonamide derivatives 8c and 8e showed the best HepG-2 IC50 of 11.80 and 4.08 μM, respectively with corresponding VEGFR-2 ΔGbinding, −9.1 and −9.8 kcal mol−1, respectively.
Benz[e]indenyl and benz[f]indenyl molybdenum compounds: evidence of the η3-coordination mode
Authors: Štěpán Jiří , Vinklárek Jaromír , Císařová Ivana , Dostál Libor , Honzíček Jan
Published: October 2023

The capability of benz[e]indenyl and benz[f]indenyl ligands to undergo η5-to-η3 haptotropic rearrangement was evidenced on new molybdenum compounds.
Biochemical transformations of inorganic nanomedicines in buffers, cell cultures and organisms
Authors: Neuer Anna L. , Herrmann Inge K. , Gogos Alexander
Published: October 2023

This paper reviews recent advances in the understanding of biochemical transformations to inorganic nanomedicines, which are vital for their further development and clinical translation.
Convenient route to Fmoc-homotyrosine via metallaphotoredox catalysis and its use in the total synthesis of anabaenopeptin cyclic peptides
Authors: Bérubé Christopher , Guay Louis-David , Fraser Tommy , Lapointe Victor , Cardinal Sébastien , Biron Éric
Published: October 2023

Metallaphotoredox catalysis was used to prepare N-Fmoc-protected homotyrosine and allowed the total on-resin synthesis of the cyclic peptide anabaenopeptin F.
Close packings of identical proteins in small spherical capsids and similar proteinaceous shells
Authors: Rochal Sergei B. , Konevtsova Olga V. , Golushko Ivan Yu. , Podgornik Rudolf
Published: October 2023

Analyzing anisotropy of protein shapes, we reveal energy and symmetry reasons controlling capsid structures, including their handedness and interprotein bonds.