bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ferromagnetic Nickel as a Sustainable Reducing Agent for Tin–Lead Mixed Perovskite in Single‐Junction and Tandem Solar Cells
Authors: Im Doyun , Boonmongkolras Passarut , Yun Yeonghun , Yang Sung Woong , Kim Sunwoo , Yun Jungchul , Gunasekaran Rajendra Kumar , Seo You‐Hyun , Jeon Nam Joong , Han Gill Sang , Lee Sangwook
Published: December 2024

Narrow‐bandgap (NBG) Sn–Pb mixed perovskite solar cells (PSCs) represent a promising solution for surpassing the radiative efficiency of single‐junction solar cells. The unique bandgap tunability of halide perovskites enables optimal tandem configurations of wide‐bandgap (WBG) and NBG subcells. However, these devices are limited by the susceptibility of Sn2+ in the NBG bottom cell to being oxidized to Sn4+, creating detrimental Sn vacancies. Herein, a novel approach that replaces Sn particles with Ni particles is introduced as the reducing agent for Sn–Pb mixed perovskite precursor solutions. The ferromagnetic properties of Ni enable simple magnetic filtration, eliminating the filtration issues associated with Sn particles. Ni particles can be reused up to five times without significantly affecting the PSC's performance. Additionally, Ni effectively mitigates the oxidation of Sn2+ due to its low reduction potential (−0.23 V), thereby enhancing device performance. Single‐junction Sn–Pb mixed PSCs prepared using Ni achieve a power‐conversion efficiency (PCE) of 22.29%, retaining over 90% of their initial efficiency after 1250 h. Furthermore, Ni‐based all‐perovskite tandem solar cells combining 1.77 eV WBG top cells with 1.25 eV NBG bottom cells achieve a remarkable PCE of 28.13%. Thus, the proposed strategy can facilitate the commercialization of all‐perovskite tandem devices.
Directly Gel‐Thermal Processing of Linker‐Mixed Crystal‐Glass Composite Membranes for Sorption‐Preferential Gas Separation
Authors: Xiao Yihao , Yu Yanqing , Huang Xinxi , Chen Da , Li Wanbin
Published: December 2024

Membrane processes are promising for energy‐saving industrial applications. However, efficient separation for some valuable gas mixtures with similar characteristics, such as CH4/N2 and O2/N2, remains extremely challenging. Metal–organic framework (MOF) membranes have been attracting intensive attention for gas sieving, but it is difficult to manufacture MOF membranes in scalability and precisely tune their transport property. In this study, Gel‐thermal processing of linker‐mixed MOF crystal‐glass composite membranes is reported directly, with the mechanism of adjusting metal‐linker bond strengths and angles to disrupt long‐range periodicity of MOFs and promote glass phase formation, for sharply sorption‐preferential gas separation. This strategy can be realized by using a simple, solvent/precursor‐less, and cost‐effective gel‐thermal approach with two steps of gel coating and thermal conversion, thereby constructing crystal‐glass composite membranes in a controllable, processable, versatile, and environmentally friendly route. Moreover, the mixed linkers enable preferential gas affinities and the ultramicroporous glasses can eliminate any membrane defects. The membranes exhibit outstanding gas separation performance for the challenging systems of CH4/N2 and O2/N2, with mixture selectivities up to 9.3 and 9.6, respectively, far exceeding those of polymer, MOF, and mixed‐matrix membranes. The study provides an available route for architecting high‐performance membranes for gas separations.
Molybdenene for Energy Storage Applications
Authors: Pandey Gaurav , Li Zhixuan , Chahal Sumit , Kumar Nishant , Awasthi Kamlendra , Vinu Ajayan , Kumar Prashant
Published: December 2024

Molybdenene, a full‐fledged metallene has been sensational among all Xenes. Apart from metallicity with excellent carrier concentration, it is anticorrosive, rendering it a superioor electrode material for electrochemical energy storage. As evident from atomic force microscopy, microwave‐synthesized molybdenene constitutes of monolayers (each layer ≈0.4 nm) and lateral dimensions extended to millimeters. Cris‐cross intertwinned crystals with close to square (0.20, 0.21 nm) lattice with fourfold symmetry were observed in electron imaging. Characteristic metallic signal (Mo–Mo vibration) in Raman peak at ≈405 cm−1 proves chemical phase purity. The electrochemical performance of synthesized molybdenene sheets is evaluated for supercapacitor applications in a 2 m KOH electrolyte. The as‐synthesized molybdenene demonstrates a specific capacitance of 327.78 F g−1 at a scan rate of 10 mV s−1 and 118.6 F g−1 at a current rate of 0.50 A g−1 in a three‐electrode configuration, with a capacitance retention of 81.0% over 5000 cycles. Furthermore, an asymmetric supercapacitor employing molybdenene as the positive electrode and activated carbon as the negative electrode exhibits an energy density of 15.94 Wh kg−1 at a power density of 399.72 W kg−1. These findings highlight molybdenene as a promising candidate for high‐performance electrochemical energy storage devices.
Composite fault reconstruction and tracking control model for interval type‐2 fuzzy‐based cyber‐physical systems: The sliding mode observer method
Authors: Anusuya S. , Sakthivel Rathinasamy , Ren Yong , Kong Fanchao
Published: December 2024

This study formulates the unified fault reconstruction and fault‐tolerant tracking (FTT) control framework for the cyber‐physical (C‐P) systems subject to time‐varying actuator faults, nonlinearity, and deception attacks. Primarily, the interval type‐2 fuzzy (IT2‐F) process efficiently approximates the nonlinear C‐P systems. Further, the unknown actuator faults are proficiently reconstructed through IT2‐F‐based sliding mode (SM) observer technique. Then, the active FTT control strategy is utilized in this work to stabilize the tracking error system. Precisely, the reference system is designated by means of IT2‐F approach. To represent the deception attacks, the Bernoulli random variable is employed in the planned controller. In a nutshell, the proposed SM observer‐based FTT control assures satisfactory tracking outcomes of the examined systems notwithstanding the presence of deception attacks and unknown actuator faults. As well, the Lyapunov stability concept is applied in this study to acquire the stability conditions in the form of linear matrix inequalities. Following this, the two numerical simulations are illustrated to exemplify the conceptual as well as the practical importance of the proposed method.
Comparing Similar and Dissimilar Competing Responses for Tic Management
Authors: Goldman Kissel J. , Simpson Martin Heather , DeLeon Iser G.
Published: December 2024

Competing‐response training is an important component of Habit‐Reversal Therapy. Competing responses are recommended to be incompatible with tics. However, research on the efficacy of non‐incompatible (“dissimilar”) competing responses is scant. We conducted two experiments with individuals with tics who had at least one established incompatible (“similar”) competing response and completed Habit‐Reversal Therapy previously. In Experiment 1, we compared similar and dissimilar competing responses in terms of tics reduction and interference with ongoing activities. In Experiment 2, we assessed the maintained effectiveness of dissimilar competing responses over multiple exposures, preference among competing response types, and the effects of similar and dissimilar competing responses on non‐targeted tics. Across both experiments, we observed similar tic reduction and disruption of ongoing activity when participants used either competing response type. Engagement was generally greater in dissimilar competing responses. We discuss potential implications for clinicians and areas of future research.
The Impact of Age in Patients Undergoing Impella‐Assisted Percutaneous Coronary Interventions
Authors: Bimal Tia , Fishbein Joanna , Gandotra Puneet , Meraj Perwaiz M. , Lee Alexander , Kim Michael C. , Omar Wally , Ong Lawrence , Gruberg Luis
Published: December 2024

Background

Short‐term percutaneous mechanical circulatory support (MCS) devices provide hemodynamic support in cardiogenic shock or during high‐risk percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

Aims

To assess the impact of age on the clinical and angiographic characteristics and in‐hospital outcomes of all patients undergoing PCI with the Impella MCS.

Methods

Data on all patients that underwent PCI with an Impella was divided into three groups according to age: < 65, 65 to < 75 years, and ≥ 75 years. In‐hospital mortality, stroke, and major bleeding complications were assessed.

Results

Between 2010 and 2018, 245 patients underwent PCI with Impella support. Almost half of all patients were < 65 years old and 32% were ≥ 75 year old. Clinical characteristics varied significantly among the three groups. Almost half of younger patients were in the midst of an ST‐elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) compared with 9% of patients ≥ 75 years (p < 0.0001). Furthermore, 57% of younger patients were in cardiogenic shock, compared with 21% of those ≥ 75 years (p = 0.002). In‐hospital mortality was highest in the 65 to < 75 years group (17%) compared with 9% and 10% in the < 65 and ≥ 75‐year‐olds groups, respectively. Major bleeding complications were not significantly different among the three age groups. Multivariable analysis for in‐hospital mortality showed that STEMI on presentation and ages 65 to < 75 years compared to those < 65 years were associated with an increased odds of in‐hospital death.

Conclusion

Clinical characteristics and indications for Impella MCS use in patients undergoing PCI varied significantly according to age. However, in‐hospital outcomes were not significantly different among the three groups.
Classification of Horsetails Using Predictive Modelling on NIR Spectra
Authors: Beier Katharina , Dutschmann Thomas‐Martin , Beuerle Till , Lubienski Marcus , Baumann Knut
Published: December 2024

Common horsetail (Equisetum arvense L., syn.: field horsetail) holds a long tradition in the supportive treatment of numerous diseases. A frequently observed problem is the risk of confusing Equisetum arvense plants with another closely related species Equisetum palustre (syn.: marsh horsetail) due to its morphological similarities. The distinction between the two species during collection/harvest is further complicated by the fact that both species share similar habitats. This, however, is of particular importance because E. palustre contains toxic alkaloids (palustrine and palustridiene) while this is not the case for E. arvense used for medicinal purposes (Equiseti herba). The aim of this study was the classification of horsetails using near infrared spectroscopy (NIR). Therefore, over 370 E. arvense and E. palustre samples originating from all over Germany, consisting of 2 years of harvest, were analysed using two different devices from different manufacturers: (a) a miniature (portable) NIR device and (b) a benchtop NIR device. Initial unsupervised machine learning techniques (PCA and t‐SNE) provided insightful visualizations for the distribution of both species within the data space. After applying variable screening to the spectral data, a variety of supervised machine learning models based on different algorithms were trained to predict the species from an individual spectrum. In a repeated cross‐validation (CV) approach, it could be shown that the spectra from both spectrometers are sufficient to achieve classification accuracies around 90%. Additionally, the data allowed for discriminating between harvesting seasons as well. The success of the complete workflow is further emphasized by assessing its reliability through posterior probabilities, which were high for the predicted class labels, implying a satisfying model certainty.
Regelmäßige Pumpenwartung deckt Effizienzpotenzial auf
Authors: Vogelei Sebastian
Published: December 2024

Pumpensysteme müssen regelmäßig kontrolliert und gewartet werden, da sich die Leistungsanforderungen und Einsatzbedingungen im Laufe des Lebenszyklus einer Pumpe verändern können. Dies kann u. a. Auswirkungen auf den Energieverbrauch einer Anlage haben. Für die Überprüfung der Pumpenleistung, der korrekten Pumpenauslegung und Anlagendimensionierung ist es daher zweckmäßig, wenn Volumenstrommessungen schnell und zuverlässig durchgeführt werden können. Ein handliches Durchflussmessgerät mit Ultraschallsensoren, die einfach von außen am Rohr befestigt werden ohne den Prozess dabei unterbrechen zu müssen, ist dabei hilfreich.
Agronomic value of alfalfa semi‐hybrids across contrasting Italian environments
Authors: Annicchiarico Paolo , Pecetti Luciano , Franguelli Nicolò
Published: December 2024

Alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) semi‐hybrids of genetically distant material may display heterosis, but their agronomic value is hardly known. Our study evaluated two two‐way and one three‐way semi‐hybrids and two synthetic varieties for 3‐year herbage dry‐matter yield (DMY) in four agricultural environments of Northern Italy formed by the factorial combination of irrigated or rain‐fed cropping by pure stand (PS) or mixed stand (MS) with vigorous grasses to verify (1) the yield advantage of semi‐hybrid material and (2) the ability of a phenotyping platform with eight managed environments used in a prior study to reproduce the population adaptive responses in agricultural environments. The semi‐hybrids derived from putative heterotic populations selected from Italian germplasm, Egyptian germplasm, and a semi‐erect pool from Eastern Europe, Canada, and Spanish Mielga germplasm. The three‐way semi‐hybrid showed wide adaptation and over 17% greater DMY than a variety selected from the Italian genetic base (set as a reference for synthetic variety breeding). The two‐way semi‐hybrids showed specific adaptation to the irrigated MS environment (where alfalfa was outcompeted) or PS environments that agreed with features of their exotic parent population, and over 19% greater yield than the reference synthetic variety in the environments where they were specifically adapted. The phenotyping platform reproduced largely the population × environment interaction effects across agricultural environments.
Direct Ink Writing Additive Manufacturing of Silica Aerogels
Authors: Chen Bo , Jiang Qiyang , Tu Jing , Xiong Xinhong , Cui Jiaxi
Published: December 2024

Silica aerogels (SAs) have garnered significant attention due to their high porosity, low density, hydrophobic properties, low thermal conductivity, and optical transparency. The traditional method for producing SAs, known as “sol‐gel” technology, involves precursor preparation, aging, and drying processes. However, aerogels produced through this method often exhibit drawbacks such as poor processability and low precision, which prevent them from fully leveraging their potential properties, including catalysis, adsorption, insulation, and sensing. In contrast, direct ink writing (DIW) technology offers a promising avenue for creating functional structures from SAs. This technique enables the production of inks with shear‐thinning behavior, facilitating the high‐precision printing of complex SA structures. This review summarizes the advancements in DIW additive manufacturing (AM) of SAs and the challenges currently faced in this field. Briefly, we first introduce the ink preparation, 3D printing process, drying and heat treatment suitable for DIW 3D printing of silica aerogels, followed by the discussion of the current state of research and key challenges of DIW 3D printing SAs.
Silent Signals in the Snow: Tracking the Spatio‐Temporal Territorial Marking Behavior of Snow Leopards (Panthera uncia) in the Mountainous Region of Baltistan, Pakistan
Authors: Zaman Muhammad , Chen Yi , Jackson Rodney , Hussain Shafqat
Published: December 2024

Mammals, being social creatures communicate through a variety of signal cues, thus it is vital to understand how wild carnivores create and maintain connections with their neighbors for their survival. However, observing elusive species in their natural habitats poses significant challenges leading to scarcities of data. In this study, we aimed to provide a detailed long‐term observation of snow leopards in the northern region of Pakistan, hence we utilized data from 136 camera traps between 2018 and 2023 in order to investigate the territorial marking behavior of snow leopards in Baltistan. We documented 813 sightings of snow leopards with 103 videos showing territorial marking behavior from 40 sightings during snow presence and 63 on snow‐free days. Nine unique communication behaviors were identified during the presence or absence of snow cover. We observed that snow leopard marking behavior occurred more often at night in the absence of snow and less often during the day in the presence of snow. The marking activities were higher during the crepuscular period in the presence of snow and showed a preference for marking activities in open areas over mixed herbaceous and shrub habitats. Olfaction and scraping were observed more frequently in open areas while fecal deposition was found in herbaceous and shrub habitats. Scraping and urine spraying were associated with cliffs, rocky outcrops and boulders in open areas. In conclusion, our findings discovered new insights into the marking patterns of snow leopards during both day and night, having taken into consideration the influence of snow conditions. Moreover, the identified marking locations hold significant potential as powerful assets for wildlife preservation initiatives.
Co‐mast: Harmonized seed production data for woody plants across US long‐term research sites
Authors: Nigro Katherine M. , Barton Jessica H. , Macias Diana , Chaudhary V. Bala , Pearse Ian S. , Bell David M. , Chen Angel , Cleavitt Natalie L. , Crone Elizabeth E. , Greene David F. , Holland E. Penelope , Johnstone Jill F. , Koenig Walter D. , Lyon Nicholas J. , Miller Tom E. X. , Schulze Mark , Snell Rebecca S. , Zimmerman Jess K. , Knops Johannes M. H. , McNulty Stacy , Parmenter Robert R. , Winterstein Mark A. , Zlotin Roman I. , LaMontagne Jalene M. , Redmond Miranda D.
Published: December 2024

Plants display a range of temporal patterns of inter‐annual reproduction, from relatively constant seed production to “mast seeding,” the synchronized and highly variable interannual seed production of plants within a population. Previous efforts have compiled global records of seed production in long‐lived plants to gain insight into seed production, forest and animal population dynamics, and the effects of global change on masting. Existing datasets focus on seed production dynamics at the population scale but are limited in their ability to examine community‐level mast seeding dynamics across different plant species at the continental scale. We harmonized decades of plant reproduction data for 141 woody plant species across nine Long‐Term Ecological Research (LTER) or long‐term ecological monitoring sites from a wide range of habitats across the United States. Plant reproduction data are reported annually between 1957 and 2021 and based on either seed traps or seed and/or cone counts on individual trees. A wide range of woody plant species including trees, shrubs, and lianas are represented within sites allowing for direct community‐level comparisons among species. We share code for filtering of data that enables the comparison of plot and individual tree data across sites. For each species, we compiled relevant life history attributes (e.g., seed mass, dispersal syndrome, seed longevity, sexual system) that may serve as important predictors of mast seeding in future analyses. To aid in phylogenetically informed analyses, we also share a phylogeny and phylogenetic distance matrix for all species in the dataset. These data can be used to investigate continent‐scale ecological properties of seed production, including individual and population variability, synchrony within and across species, and how these properties of seed production vary in relation to plant species traits and environmental conditions. In addition, these data can be used to assess how annual variability in seed production is associated with climate conditions and how that varies across populations, species, and regions. The dataset is released under a CC0 1.0 Universal public domain license.
Thermal Runaway Detection Method for Smart Electric Bicycle Charger
Authors: Ning Jing , Xiao Bing , Zhao Wenbin
Published: December 2024

A novel algorithm for thermal runaway detection embedded in the electric bicycle charging system is proposed. The battery's internal temperature is a key indicator to diagnose battery safety and monitor the charging state. First, the relationship between the battery's internal temperature and the impedance's phase shift is derived theoretically. Second, given that random interference in the charging current, the current area integration algorithm (CAIA) is presented to measure the phase shift, so the internal temperature is estimated. Third, the smart charging system for electric bicycles is presented and results are discussed. The results show that the phase shift increases with the internal temperature in the range of 200–600 Hz when the internal temperature is 20°C–35°C. When the internal temperature reaches 45°C, the phase shift decreases sharply with the internal temperature. Therefore, smart electric bicycle charger realizes thermal runaway detection of electric bicycle.
Synthesis and Characterization of Erythritol‐Based Nanoencapsulated Phase‐Change Materials for High‐Temperature Latent Functional Thermal Fluid
Authors: Yuan Yingbiao , Li Jun , Wang Piao , Zhang Liyuan , Ju Haidong , Chen Renjie
Published: December 2024

Erythritol‐based nanocapsules with a phase‐change temperature of 120 °C are successfully prepared under very mild conditions. The nanocapsules are produced via multiple crystallization precipitations from a saturated erythritol aqueous solution, followed by SiO2 coating using a sol–gel method. Their nanostructure and elemental composition are characterized using scanning electron microscopy and energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy. The latent heat of the nanocapsules is measured with a differential scanning calorimeter. The erythritol nanocapsules, with an average size of ≈220 nm, exhibit a melting enthalpy of 192.7 J g−1. Notably, the supercooling degree of the nanocapsules is reduced by ≈30.0 °C compared to pure erythritol. After 200 thermal cycles, the heat storage performance of the nanocapsules shows only a 7.6% decrease. A latent heat functional thermal fluid, suitable for high‐temperature heat transfer, is prepared by dispersing the nanocapsules in silicone oil. The thermal conductivity and specific heat capacity of this fluid increase by 20.5% and 283.3%, respectively, compared to pure silicone oil. These findings demonstrate that erythritol nanocapsules significantly enhance the thermal properties of high‐temperature heat transfer fluids, highlighting their potential for high‐temperature heat storage and transfer application.
Scope of Utilizing Carotenoids for Enhanced Performance in Biohybrid Perovskite Solar Cells: A Computational Study
Authors: Battula Satyanarayana Reddy , Das Prasanta Kumar , Sen Ramkrishna
Published: December 2024

Natural photosynthesis, driven by molecular machines that have continuously evolved over a long period, is the best‐known efficient process of harvesting sunlight. Photosynthetic pigments in plants, algae, and cyanobacteria have remarkably higher quantum efficiencies than corresponding synthetic and semisynthetic materials used in photovoltaic cells. The antioxidative and intrinsic properties of natural pigments like carotenoids make them suitable for new‐generation sustainable energy and green electronics applications. In this computational study, an attempt has been made to understand the scope of carotenoids as an additive to the active layer and/or eco‐friendly alternatives to the hole transport materials (HTM) like Spiro‐MeOTAD in preparing perovskite solar cells. Accordingly, quantum and moleculer mechanical simulations are done to evaluate and compare the optoelectronic parameters of some easily available carotenoids vis‐à‐vis some noncarotenoids like betacyanin, xylindein, and Spiro‐MeOTAD. HOMO–LUMO energy levels of carotenoids aligned well with those of perovskite. In addition, their light absorption spectra are also found to be complementary, and hence, the carotenoids can exhibit tandem behavior in absorbing visible light along with perovskite materials. Hole reorganization energies (λ) of some carotenoids like capsorubin, capsanthin, and violaxanthin are almost equivalent to Spiro‐MeOTAD's. Calculated glass transition temperatures (Tg) of carotenoids indicate their thermophysical stability during peak summer.
Ketogenic diet therapy for the treatment of pediatric epilepsy
Authors: Haridas Babitha , Testino Alexander , Kossoff Eric H.
Published: December 2024

In 1921, the classic ketogenic diet was created at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota to treat epilepsy in children and adults. Over a century later, it is a widely used, standard‐of‐care therapy for typically treatment‐resistant epilepsy worldwide. There are currently five versions of ketogenic diet therapy that can be started either in or out of the hospital setting. It is overall effective in approximately half of children started, usually within a few months. Established indications for ketogenic diet therapy exist, in which this treatment may potentially even be more advantageous than antiseizure medications. Some of these indications include Glut1 deficiency, pyruvate dehydrogenase deficiency, infantile epileptic spasms syndrome, epilepsy with myoclonic‐atonic seizures, and formula‐fed children. Although most children are also receiving antiseizure medications with ketogenic diet therapy, its use may lead to medication reduction or withdrawal in some cases, and improvement in cognition and quality of life. Supplements are begun when ketogenic diet therapy is initiated in order to prevent common side effects, including constipation, kidney stones, growth disturbance, and dyslipidemia. Typically, after 2 years in most children, ketogenic diet therapy is discontinued gradually.
Effectiveness of cross‐sector collaboration in strategy implementation and impact: Evaluation of the NSW Skin Cancer Prevention Strategy 2016–2022
Authors: Mercado Gabriela , Tupanceski Irina , Scott Nicola , Woolley Nikki , Jayakody Amanda , Reakes Kate , McGill Sarah , O'Brien Tracey
Published: December 2024

Issues Addressed

Australia continues to have one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world. In NSW, melanoma is the third most common cancer diagnosed. At least 95% of skin cancers are caused by overexposure to ultraviolet radiation (UVR) from the sun, making it a highly preventable cancer. The NSW Skin Cancer Prevention Strategy (the Strategy) aims to reduce overexposure to UVR through collaborative efforts across government and non‐government partners and the private sector. An evaluation was required to inform the Skin Cancer Prevention Strategy 2023–2030 development and implementation.

Methods

The Strategy was evaluated using a mixed‐methods approach, which included both process and outcome evaluation measures. Measures included population and campaign tracking surveys, administrative datasets, a document review of progress reports and meeting minutes, and semi‐structured interviews and workshops with stakeholders.

Results

The evaluation outlined activities and achievements under each of the Strategy goals. Findings demonstrated improved understanding and awareness of sun protection policies and guidelines, improved access to adequate shade, increased measurability of shade availability and adequacy, and increased adoption of sun protection behaviours.

Conclusion

Cross‐agency collaboration and commitment were a key strength of the Strategy. The continued prioritisation of settings (e.g. schools, workplaces, etc.) and populations outlined in the Strategy were supported by the evaluation's findings. Additional focus areas for the new Strategy were highlighted, including secondary prevention or early detection. Continued skin cancer prevention activities, including social marketing campaigns and public education programs, are essential to ensure the adoption of sun protection behaviours by priority populations.
Leaders Inflate Performance Ratings for Employees Who Use Robots to Augment Their Performance
Authors: He Guohua , Yam Kai Chi , Zhao Puchu , Dong Xiaowei , Zheng Lixun , Qin Xin
Published: December 2024

With robot usage becoming increasingly prevalent in contemporary workplaces, a key task for supervisors is conducting performance ratings in the context of employee‐robot value co‐creation. In this research, we explore whether, how, and when employees' robot usage affects supervisors' performance ratings. Drawing upon attribution theory, we suggest that supervisors might overestimate the performance of employees who use robots at work. Across a pilot study, two experiments, and one field study, we find that employees' robot usage is positively associated with supervisors' illusory performance transference (i.e., supervisors' belief that robot–associated performance should be attributed to employees who use robots at work). In turn, this transference is positively associated with high performance ratings for the respective employees. Furthermore, the supervisor–perceived experience of robots (i.e., supervisors' perceptions that robots are able to feel emotions and sensations) weakens this indirect effect. We conclude by discussing the theoretical and practical implications of our findings and future directions.
Hysterectomy without oophorectomy as a risk factor for genitourinary syndrome of menopause
Authors: Zapata‐Caballero Carlos Agustín , Robellada‐Zárate Claudia Melina , López‐Díaz Ana Jimena , Arellano‐Eguiluz Arturo , del Barco Laura Guadalupe Escobar
Published: December 2024

Synopsis

Hysterectomy without oophorectomy increases the risk of genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) in postmenopausal women compared to those with intact uteri.
Dual‐coupling networks engineering of self‐assembled ferromagnetic microspheres with enhanced interfacial polarization and magnetic interaction for microwave absorption
Authors: Xu Chunyang , Xiong Xuhui , Du Yiqian , Lv Xiaowei , Wu Zhengchen , Luo Kaicheng , Qian Yuetong , Che Renchao
Published: December 2024

The simultaneous enhancement of magnetic and dielectric properties in nanomaterials is becoming increasingly important for achieving exceptional microwave absorption performance. However, the engineering strategies for modulating electromagnetic responses remain challenging, and the underlying magnetic‐dielectric loss mechanisms are not yet fully understood. In this study, we constructed novel dual‐coupling networks through the tightly packed Fe3O4@C spindles, which exhibit both dielectric and magnetic dissipation effects. During the spray‐drying process, vigorous self‐assembly facilitated the formation of hierarchical microspheres composed of nanoscale core‐shell ferromagnetic units. Numerous heterogeneous interfaces and abundant magnetic domains were produced in these microspheres. The integrated dielectric/magnetic coupling networks, formed by discontinuous carbon layers and closely arranged Fe3O4 spindles, contribute to strong absorption through intense interfacial polarization and magnetic interactions. The mechanisms behind both magnetic and dielectric losses are elucidated through Lorentz electron holography and micromagnetic simulations. Consequently, the hierarchical microspheres demonstrate excellent low‐frequency absorption performance, achieving an effective absorption bandwidth of 3.52 GHz, covering the entire C‐band from 4 to 8 GHz. This study reveals that dual‐coupling networks engineering is an effective strategy for synergistically enhancing electromagnetic responses and improving the absorption performance of magnetic nanomaterials.

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Multimodal Ultrasound Diagnosis of Congenital Renal Arteriovenous Malformation: A Case Report
Authors: Zhang Liye , Li Keyan , Wu Dudu , Wu Shengzheng
Published: December 2024

Traditionally, computed tomography angiography has been considered the gold standard for diagnosing renal arteriovenous malformation (AVM). Despite the sensitivity of ultrasound in detecting AVM through Doppler techniques, it often lacks the ability to provide detailed insights into the lesion. In this narrative, we present a case of unexplained hematuria accompanied by flank pain, which was conclusively diagnosed as congenital renal AVM via multimodal ultrasound. The pivotal contributions of color Doppler ultrasound and contrast‐enhanced ultrasound are that they are instrumental in enabling an early and markedly precise diagnostic pathway.
Direct imaging with multidimensional labelling and high‐content analysis allows quantitative categorization and characterizations of individual small extracellular vesicles and nanoparticles (sEVPs)
Authors: Sun Simou , Cox‐Vázquez Sarah J. , Cho Nam‐Joon , Bazan Guillermo C. , Groves Jay T.
Published: December 2024

Small extracellular vesicles and nanoparticles (sEVPs) are cell‐secreted entities with potential as diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic vehicles. However, significant intrinsic sEVP heterogeneity impedes analysis and understanding of their composition and functions. We employ multidimensional fluorescent labelling on sEVPs, leveraging the robustness of a newly developed membrane probe—conjugated oligoelectrolytes (COEs), and conduct total internal reflection fluorescence (TIRF) microscopy on sEVP arrays. These arrays comprise single sEVPs anchored to a soft material functionalized surface with little bias. We then develop an enhanced algorithm for colocalization analysis of the multiple labels on individual sEVPs and perform deep profiling of particle content. We categorize sEVPs derived from the same cell type into seven distinct subpopulations—some vesicular whereas others non‐vesicular, and we demonstrate that sEVPs from four cell types exhibit quantitatively distinguishable subpopulation distributions. Furthermore, we gain insights into specific particle features within each subpopulation, including CD63 counts, relative particle size, relative concentration of cargoes, and correlations among different cargoes. This high‐content analysis reveals common cargo sorting features in sEVP subpopulations across different cell types and suggests new statistics within the sEVP inherent heterogeneity that could differentiate sEVPs from two types of cancer cells and two types of normal cells. Collectively, our study presents a robust single‐sEVP characterization platform, combining high‐content imaging with comprehensive analysis. This platform is poised to advance sEVP‐based theranostic assays and facilitate exploration into disease‐associated sEVP biogenesis and sEVP‐mediated intercellular communication.
Decreased Constraints of Wind Erosion on Soil Seed Bank and Vegetation With the Stabilization of Sand Dune in Northern China
Authors: Yang Hongling , Li Yulin , Su Yongzhong , Yao Bo , Zhan Jin , Gong Xiangwen , Wang Lilong
Published: December 2024

While various measures have been taken to combat desertification and stabilize sand dunes, the persistence of “far and active sand dune” in northern China remains a great challenge. This study aimed to identify the primary driving factors that contribute to the stabilization of sand dunes within the Horqin Sandy Land. Our research investigated the richness and density of soil seed bank, seedlings, and vegetation communities across different slope positions in both active and stabilized sand dunes. Our results indicated that sand dune stabilization led to a significant increase in soil carbon and nitrogen contents, with increments of 0.09 ± 0.02 and 0.005 ± 0.001 g kg−1, respectively. Compared with active sand dune, the soil clay content and silt content in stabilized dune showed an increased rate of 23.59% and 30.43%, respectively, while the proportion of soil sand decreased significantly. Additionally, variations in the richness and density of seedlings and vegetation were observed across different slope positions, with lower leeward slopes exhibiting the most favorable conditions, hosting 11.4 ± 0.3 species in richness and 142.1 ± 5.4/m2, 303.4 ± 25.9/m2, and 37.2 ± 0.8/m2 in density for soil seed banks, seedlings, and vegetation, respectively. The soil seed bank showed a great potential for the regeneration of pioneer and annual plant species, particularly Agriophyllum squarrosum. Notably, our findings indicated a reduction in the influence of soil wind erosion intensity on the seed bank and vegetation during the stabilization process, as reflected by a 12% reduction in standardized total effects (STE). Conversely, the effects of soil temperature (STE ranging from 0.07 to 0.22), soil moisture (STE of −0.97 in stabilized dunes), and soil nitrogen content (STE of 0.28 in stabilized dunes) became more pronounced. These results underscore the importance of initially deploying mechanical sand barriers to manage active sand dunes, followed by the strategic planting of pioneer species, especially on the leeward slopes, to effectively promote the stabilization of the dunes.
Phosphatidylethanolamines are the Main Lipid Class Altered in Red Blood Cells from Patients with VPS13A Disease/Chorea‐Acanthocytosis
Authors: Peikert Kevin , Spranger Adrian , Miltenberger‐Miltenyi Gabriel , Glaß Hannes , Falkenburger Björn , Klose Christian , Tyteca Donatienne , Hermann Andreas
Published: December 2024

Background

VPS13A disease is an ultra‐rare disorder caused by loss of function mutations in VPS13A characterized by striatal degeneration and by red blood cell (RBC) acanthocytosis. VPS13A is a bridge‐like protein mediating lipid transfer at membrane contact sites.

Objectives

To assess the lipid composition of patient‐derived RBCs.

Methods

RBCs collected from 5 VPS13A disease patients and 12 control subjects were analyzed by mass spectrometry (lipidomics).

Results

While we found no significant differences in the overall lipid class level, alterations in certain species were detected: phosphatidylethanolamine species with both longer chain length and higher unsaturation were increased in VPS13A disease samples. Specific ceramide, phosphatidylcholine, and sphingomyelin species were also altered.

Conclusions

The presented alterations of particular lipid species in RBCs in VPS13A disease may contribute to (1) the understanding of acanthocyte formation, and (2) future biomarker identification. Lipid distribution seems to play a key role in the pathophysiology of VPS13A disease. © 2024 The Author(s). Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Addressing the Unmet Need in the Treatment of Poststroke Anxiety, Depression, and Apathy: A Systematic Review of Potential Therapeutic Options
Authors: Liang Yuanchen , Levi Christopher , Sachdev Perminder S. , Spratt Neil , Bajorek Beata
Published: December 2024

Half of stroke patients experience depression, anxiety, and/or apathy, adversely impacting poststroke recovery. Yet management of these remains suboptimal. To identify the broad spectrum of therapeutic modalities investigated for post‐stroke mood disorders, and their characteristics, administration regimens, and clinical outcomes. A structured, PRISMA‐guided literature review identified studies exploring preventative or treatment options. Seventy‐one identified studies (N = 5748 patients) comprised 62 clinical trials, 4 case reports, and 4 protocols or published abstracts. Most focused on depression; relatively few addressed anxiety and/or apathy. Overall, the efficacy of most treatments remains unclear due to the diversity and small size of studies (mostly pilot studies) precluding comparison. Preventative modalities such as nortriptyline (6 studies) reduced the incidence of depression, noting high rates of effectiveness in smaller studies (92.3%, study N = 48) patients. For the treatment of diagnosed mood disorders (58 studies), conventional pharmacotherapies (e.g., fluoxetine) were most effective, reducing depression, anxiety and/or apathy in up to 95.8% of patients (study N = 60). Physiological interventions (e.g., repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, rTMS) variably reduced depression/anxiety severity (in 20.8%–93.3% of patients) whilst complementary therapies (e.g., acupuncture) reduced depression/anxiety severity in 60.0%–92.4% of patients (study N = 60). Combination therapies (e.g., fluoxetine plus acupuncture or rTMS plus Deanixt) significantly reduced depression severity in 93.3% of patients (study N = 60). Within the limited evidence in poststroke mood disorders, conventional pharmacotherapies appear most effective for both prevention and treatment, whilst nonpharmacological strategies and CAMs show potential. No treatment can be fully recommended without more robust trials.
Microbubble enhanced ultrasound with low mechanical index promotes therapeutic angiogenesis in hind limb ischemia mouse model
Authors: Zhu Qiong , He Ying , Dong Xiao Xiao , Xu Yali , Zhang Yi , Liu Zheng
Published: December 2024

Background

Microbubble enhanced ultrasound (MEUS) can augment tissue perfusion by angiogenesis yet the best treatment ultrasound power in the initial ischemia period is uncertain.

Purpose

Considering the mechanical index (MI) is the most commonly used parameter for regulating diagnostic ultrasound power, here, we explored the effects of MEUS mediated by different MI on perfusion and sought to characterize the angiogenesis in the early stage of ischemia.

Methods

Experiments were conducted on hind limb ischemia mouse model (HLI) and MEUS was administrated in the first week every other day following induction of HLI for four times. MEUS was conducted with a modified diagnostic ultrasound in combination with a lipid microbubble at 3 MHz and 21 cycles employing MI 0.3 (0.8 MPa), 0.7 (1.32 MPa) and 1.3 (2.78 MPa), respectively. Semi‐quantitative visual score and blood perfusion quantitation by contrast‐enhanced ultrasound were performed before each treatment. Hematoxylin‐eosin staining and immunohistochemistry with CD31 were performed after four times treatment.

Results

The results showed HLI mice in MI 0.3 mediated MEUS group longitudinally exhibited more blood perfusion in calf muscle and less visible necrosis compared to other experimental groups in the early stage. Additionally, diffused inflammatory cells with greater number of vessels in calf muscle were observed in MI 0.3 group.

Conclusions

Low MI mediated MEUS had significantly greater effects on augmenting muscle blood perfusion and reducing necrosis in the initial period after HLI surgery. These effects are most likely mediated by angiogenesis stimulated by low MI mediated MEUS.
Biological Evaluation of LL‐37 Antimicrobial Peptide‐Loaded Biodegradable Barrier Membranes in Guided Bone Regeneration
Authors: Pinthonglor Putida , Jaimalai Thanapak , Daranarong Donraporn , Jenvoraphot Thannaphat , Pongsuwan Punyaporn , Suree Nuttee , Prangkio Panchika , Punyodom Winita , Chamusri Nutchapon , Boonsri Burin , Supanchart Chayarop
Published: December 2024

This study aims to determine the in vitro and in vivo biocompatibility and the differences in LL‐37 releasing patterns of the PLC/Col/LL‐37 sustained releasing membrane and the rapid releasing Col/LL‐37 membrane for use as a barrier membrane in guided bone regeneration. On Days 3 and 7, the PLC/Col/LL‐37 membrane revealed generated osteoclasts, whereas the PLC/Col membrane indicated mature osteoclasts. PLC/Col/LL‐37 was non‐toxic to blood cells and inhibited human albumin adhesion to the surface. A microbial reduction was observed in the Col/LL‐37 membrane, while both PLC/Col/LL‐37 and Col/LL‐37 may have caused early phases of skin sensitization. In animal testing, PLC/Col/LL37 and Col/LL37 exhibited the same levels of inflammation as the control group at all time points, while the different releasing patterns of LL‐37 loaded on PLC/Col/LL‐37 and Col/LL‐37 membranes had no effect on inflammation resolution in rat models.
Terpenoids: Unlocking Their Potential on Cancer Glucose Metabolism
Authors: Muhammad Siti Nur Hasyila , Ramli Redzyque Ramza , Nik Mohamed Kamal Nik Nur Syazni , Fauzi Agustine Nengsih
Published: December 2024

Cancer incidence has increased globally and has become the leading cause of death in the majority of countries. Many cancers have altered energy metabolism pathways, such as increased glucose uptake and glycolysis, as well as decreased oxidative phosphorylation. This is known as the Warburg effect, where cancer cells become more reliant on glucose to generate energy and produce lactate as an end product, even when oxygen is present. These are attributed to the overexpression of key glycolytic enzymes, glucose transporters, and related signaling pathways that occur in cancer cells. Therefore, overcoming metabolic alterations in cancer cells has recently become a target for therapeutic approaches. Natural products have played a key role in drug discovery, especially for cancer and infectious diseases. In this review, we are going to focus on terpenoids, which are gradually gaining popularity among drug researchers due to their reported anti‐cancer effects via cell cycle arrest, induction of apoptosis, reduction of proliferation, and metastasis. This review summarizes the potential of 13 terpenoid compounds as anti‐glycolytic inhibitors in different cancer models, primarily by inhibiting the glucose uptake and the generation of lactate, as well as by downregulating enzymes associated to glycolysis. As a conclusion, disruption of cancer cell glycolysis may be responsible for the anti‐cancer activity of terpenoids.
A Simple Information Criterion for Variable Selection in High‐Dimensional Regression
Authors: Pluntz Matthieu , Dalmasso Cyril , Tubert‐Bitter Pascale , Ahmed Ismaïl
Published: December 2024

High‐dimensional regression problems, for example with genomic or drug exposure data, typically involve automated selection of a sparse set of regressors. Penalized regression methods like the LASSO can deliver a family of candidate sparse models. To select one, there are criteria balancing log‐likelihood and model size, the most common being AIC and BIC. These two methods do not take into account the implicit multiple testing performed when selecting variables in a high‐dimensional regression, which makes them too liberal. We propose the extended AIC (EAIC), a new information criterion for sparse model selection in high‐dimensional regressions. It allows for asymptotic FWER control when the candidate regressors are independent. It is based on a simple formula involving model log‐likelihood, model size, the total number of candidate regressors, and the FWER target. In a simulation study over a wide range of linear and logistic regression settings, we assessed the variable selection performance of the EAIC and of other information criteria (including some that also use the number of candidate regressors: mBIC, mAIC, and EBIC) in conjunction with the LASSO. Our method controls the FWER in nearly all settings, in contrast to the AIC and BIC, which produce many false positives. We also illustrate it for the automated signal detection of adverse drug reactions on the French pharmacovigilance spontaneous reporting database.