bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Network-level Method for Road Infrastructure Maintenance Decision Making
Authors: Choi Yangrok , Bae Youngjae , Lim Jangho , Lee Jiwoo , Kwon Kyungrok , Kong Jung Sik
Published: December 2023

In South Korea, the aging of road infrastructures exceeding 30 years and susceptibility to natural disasters emphasize the imperative for improved maintenance. A novel method was developed to incorporate social factors, such as traffic flow, into maintenance strategies. This method evaluated the significance of road infrastructures within the network by considering changes in network performance resulting from changes in their condition. This method, anticipated to enhance maintenance efficiency, was envisaged for determining regular maintenance and recovery priorities of damaged infrastructures in the wake of natural disasters.
Effectiveness of Heatwave Emergency Alert Messages through Analysis of Floating Population
Authors: Hong You-Jeong , Jeong Jindo , Kim Woosik , Yoon Dong Keun
Published: December 2023

Heatwave emergency alert messages (EAM) not only provide objective information on heatwave occurrences but also include behavioral guidelines, such as avoiding outdoor activities or going out to respond to heatwaves and minimize damage. To investigate the EAM's effectiveness, we analyzed the changes in the floating population during 2021 using Seoul dong-unit and hourly location-based mobile big data. We also examined what socioeconomic and physical environmental characteristics could cause differences in the effectiveness, focusing on the fact that EAM may have different effects depending on regional factors. The findings revealed a notable reduction in the overall floating population of Seoul, ranging from 0.1 to 3.4%. When examined by region, an average decrease of 2.4 to 5.6% was observed, indicating the different effects of EAM by region. Further analysis of regional characteristics highlighted that areas with low EAM effectiveness were characterized by a lower ratio of senior residents, higher employment concentration, and higher accessibility to public transportation. Additionally, the number of household members, gender distribution, average age, and presence of green spaces can contribute to the gap in the effectiveness of EAM between regions.
A Young Pregnant Person With Old Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Wang Li , Zhang Minmin , Jin Jing
Published: December 2023

This case report presents the electrocardiogram findings of a pregnant patient in their 30s with a family history of hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy.
Looking Beyond Syndrome-Based Criteria for Autoimmune Encephalitis—The Need for Complementary Neural Antibody–Based Diagnostic Criteria
Authors: Budhram Adrian , Irani Sarosh R. , Flanagan Eoin P.
Published: December 2023

This Viewpoint discusses how neural antibody–based diagnostic criteria for autoimmune encephalitis would complement the syndrome-based diagnostic algorithm to improve sensitivity while maintaining high specificity.
Development and validation of the low‐cost pregnant female physical phantom for fetal dosimetry in MV photon radiotherapy
Authors: Kopačin Vjekoslav , Brkić Hrvoje , Ivković Ana , Kasabašić Mladen , Knežević Željka , Majer Marija , Nodilo Marijana , Turk Tajana , Faj Dario
Published: December 2023

Background

Monte Carlo (MC) simulations or measurements in anthropomorphic phantoms are recommended for estimating fetal dose in pregnant patients in radiotherapy. Among the many existing phantoms, there is no commercially available physical phantom representing the entire pregnant woman.

Purpose

In this study, the development of a low‐cost, physical pregnant female phantom was demonstrated using commercially available materials. This phantom is based on the previously published computational phantom.

Methods

Three tissue substitution materials (soft tissue, lung and bone tissue substitution) were developed. To verify Tena's substitution tissue materials, their radiation properties were assessed and compared to ICRP and ICRU materials using MC simulations in MV radiotherapy beams. Validation of the physical phantom was performed by comparing fetal doses obtained by measurements in the phantom with fetal doses obtained by MC simulations in computational phantom, during an MV photon breast radiotherapy treatment.

Results

Materials used for building Tena phantom are matched to ICRU materials using physical density, radiation absorption properties and effective atomic number. MC simulations showed that percentage depth doses of Tena and ICRU material comply within 5% for soft and lung tissue, up to 25 cm depth. In the bone tissue, the discrepancy is higher, but again within 5% up to the depth of 5 cm. When the phantom was used for fetal dose measurements in MV photon breast radiotherapy, measured fetal doses complied with fetal doses calculated using MC simulation within 15%.

Conclusions

Physical anthropomorphic phantom of pregnant patient can be manufactured using commercial materials and with low expenses. The files needed for 3D printing are now freely available. This enables further studies and comparison of numerical and physical experiments in diagnostic radiology or radiotherapy.
Effects of sulfatide on peripheral nerves in metachromatic leukodystrophy
Authors: Farah Mohamed H. , Dali Christine í , Groeschel Samuel , Moldovan Mihai , Whiteman David A. H. , Malanga C. J. , Krägeloh‐Mann Ingeborg , Li Jing , Barton Norman , Krarup Christian
Published: December 2023

Objective

To evaluate the longitudinal correlations between sulfatide/lysosulfatide levels and central and peripheral nervous system function in children with metachromatic leukodystrophy (MLD) and to explore the impact of intravenous recombinant human arylsulfatase A (rhASA) treatment on myelin turnover.

Methods

A Phase 1/2 study of intravenous rhASA investigated cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and sural nerve sulfatide levels, 88‐item Gross Motor Function Measure (GMFM‐88) total score, sensory and motor nerve conduction, brain N‐acetylaspartate (NAA) levels, and sural nerve histology in 13 children with MLD. Myelinated and unmyelinated nerves from an untreated MLD mouse model were also analyzed.

Results

CSF sulfatide levels correlated with neither Z‐scores for GMFM‐88 nor brain NAA levels; however, CSF sulfatide levels correlated negatively with Z‐scores of nerve conduction parameters, number of large (≥7 μm) myelinated fibers, and myelin/fiber diameter slope, and positively with nerve g‐ratios and cortical latencies of somatosensory‐evoked potentials. Quantity of endoneural litter positively correlated with sural nerve sulfatide/lysosulfatide levels. CSF sulfatide levels decreased with continuous high‐dose treatment; this change correlated with improved nerve conduction. At 26 weeks after treatment, nerve g‐ratio decreased by 2%, and inclusion bodies per Schwann cell unit increased by 55%. In mice, abnormal sulfatide storage was observed in non‐myelinating Schwann cells in Remak bundles of sciatic nerves but not in unmyelinated urethral nerves.

Interpretation

Lower sulfatide levels in the CSF and peripheral nerves correlate with better peripheral nerve function in children with MLD; intravenous rhASA treatment may reduce CSF sulfatide levels and enhance sulfatide/lysosulfatide processing and remyelination in peripheral nerves.
Lubricant‐Infused Polymeric Interfaces: A Stretchable and Anti‐Fouling Surface for Implantable Biomaterials
Authors: Kim Tae Young , An Soohwan , Kim Young , Han Seung Yeop , Lee Jeuhee , Park Kijun , Kim Sangin , Park Jae , Kim Soo A , Chung Justin J. , Cho Seung‐Woo , Seo Jungmok
Published: December 2023

Developing thin, highly stretchable coatings that inhibit the undesirable adhesion of biological substances on soft and high‐water‐content biomaterial surfaces is an area of significant interest. In this study, a stretchable antifouling coating named lubricant‐infused poly(1,3,5,7‐tetramethyl‐1,3,5,7‐tetravinyl cyclotetrasiloxane) (V4D4) is introduced interface with perfluoropolymer (L‐VIP). The stretchable adhesive‐perfluoropolymer bilayer comprises stretchable adhesive polymer (V4D4) and perfluoropolymer (1H,1H,2H,2H‐perfluorooctyl methacrylate (FOMA)). The bilayer exhibits a strong affinity with the lubricant, imparting exceptional antifouling and slippery properties. L‐VIP coating displays superior fouling resistance against plasma proteins related to foreign body reactions (FBR) and biofilm‐forming bacteria. The coating exhibits impressive elastic limits exceeding 200% strain and exceptional stability under repeated cyclic stretching (> 2000 cycles at 150% strain) while maintaining its antifouling properties. Furthermore, the coating presents dielectric performance under accelerated aging conditions at a temperature of 70° and constant voltage stress of 10 V s−1 for over 50 days. To assess the biocompatibility of the L‐VIP coating, a series of in vitro and in vivo experiments are conducted, confirming its non‐toxicity for biomedical applications. It is expected that the stretchable L‐VIP coating will enhance medical devices’ longevity and help prevent bacterial infections, the formation of biofilms, and the nonspecific adherence of biological substances after implantation.
Hybridization of Localized Spoof Plasmonic Skyrmions and its Application in Micro‐Displacement Sensing
Authors: Li Xinhua , Liu Liangliang , Zhang Yaoran , Feng Yue , Han Guodong , Yang Helin , Hu Hao , Luo Yu , Li Zhuo
Published: December 2023

Plasmon hybridization plays a crucial role in subwavelength light control, offering remarkable field enhancement. However, engineering the resonance properties becomes increasingly challenging since the field enhancement generally makes the resonance more sensitive to geometric deformation. To this end, a shape‐immuned hybridization model with localized spoof plasmonic skyrmions in the platform of ultra‐compact spoof plasmonic dimer structures is proposed. Contrary to conventional wisdom, the revealed hybrid systems exhibit shape‐independent resonance properties thanks to the topological nature of localized spoof plasmonic skyrmions. On the other hand, the strong magnetic coupling between skyrmions results in the splitting of the skyrmion resonances into two new resonances (corresponding to bonding and antibonding skyrmions, respectively). The experimental results reflect that the frequency separation of bonding and antibonding skyrmions is extremely sensitive to the coupling distance of dimer structures (with a maximum sensitivity of up to 10.875 GHz mm−1). The findings not only complete the theory of skyrmion hybridization but also apply to novel multimode topological sensors that are compact and highly sensitive to micro‐displacement.
Opto‐Lipidomics of Tissues
Authors: Jensen Magnus , Liu Shiyue , Stepula Elzbieta , Martella Davide , Birjandi Anahid A. , Farrell‐Dillon Keith , Chan Ka Lung Andrew , Parsons Maddy , Chiappini Ciro , Chapple Sarah J. , Mann Giovanni E. , Vercauteren Tom , Abbate Vincenzo , Bergholt Mads S.
Published: December 2023

Lipid metabolism and signaling play pivotal functions in biology and disease development. Despite this, currently available optical techniques are limited in their ability to directly visualize the lipidome in tissues. In this study, opto‐lipidomics, a new approach to optical molecular tissue imaging is introduced. The capability of vibrational Raman spectroscopy is expanded to identify individual lipids in complex tissue matrices through correlation with desorption electrospray ionization (DESI) – mass spectrometry (MS) imaging in an integrated instrument. A computational pipeline of inter‐modality analysis is established to infer lipidomic information from optical vibrational spectra. Opto‐lipidomic imaging of transient cerebral ischemia‐reperfusion injury in a murine model of ischemic stroke demonstrates the visualization and identification of lipids in disease with high molecular specificity using Raman scattered light. Furthermore, opto‐lipidomics in a handheld fiber‐optic Raman probe is deployed and demonstrates real‐time classification of bulk brain tissues based on specific lipid abundances. Opto‐lipidomics opens a host of new opportunities to study lipid biomarkers for diagnostics, prognostics, and novel therapeutic targets.
Monolayer Organic Crystals for Ultrahigh Performance Molecular Diodes
Authors: Li Yating , Xie Jiacheng , Sun Li , Zeng Junpeng , Zhou Liqi , Hao Ziqian , Pan Lijia , Ye Jiandong , Wang Peng , Li Yun , Xu Jian‐Bin , Shi Yi , Wang Xinran , He Daowei
Published: December 2023

Molecular diodes are of considerable interest for the increasing technical demands of device miniaturization. However, the molecular diode performance remains contact‐limited, which represents a major challenge for the advancement of rectification ratio and conductance. Here, it is demonstrated that high‐quality ultrathin organic semiconductors can be grown on several classes of metal substrates via solution‐shearing epitaxy, with a well‐controlled number of layers and monolayer single crystal over 1 mm. The crystals are atomically smooth and pinhole‐free, providing a native interface for high‐performance monolayer molecular diodes. As a result, the monolayer molecular diodes show record‐high rectification ratio up to 5 × 108, ideality factor close to unity, aggressive unit conductance over 103 S cm−2, ultrahigh breakdown electric field, excellent electrical stability, and well‐defined contact interface. Large‐area monolayer molecular diode arrays with 100% yield and excellent uniformity in the diode metrics are further fabricated. These results suggest that monolayer molecular crystals have great potential to build reliable, high‐performance molecular diodes and deeply understand their intrinsic electronic behavior.
Chronic rhinosinusitis and olfaction after highly effective modulator therapy: The role of individual sinus inflammation
Authors: Miller Jessa E. , Taylor‐Cousar Jennifer L. , Humphries Stephen M. , Khatiwada Aastha , Chen Haidee , Wilson Alexandra , Vladar Eszter K. , Lynch David A. , Li Douglas A. , Beswick Daniel M.
Published: December 2023

Key Points

Individual sinus opacification (ISO) is measurable via a convolutional neural network approach.

ISO decreased through 2 years after highly effective modulator therapy was initiated.

In adults with cystic fibrosis, ISO did not correlate with quality of life or olfaction.
Reversible Postsynthetic Modification in a Metal–Organic Framework
Authors: Mondal Prantik , Neuschuler Zachary , Mandal Dipendu , Hernandez Ritchie E. , Cohen Seth M.
Published: December 2023

Postsynthetic modification (PSM) of metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) provides access to functional materials and advanced porous solid engineering. Herein, we report the reversible PSM of a multivariate isoreticular MOF by applying dynamic furan‐maleimide Diels–Alder (DA) chemistry. The key step involves incorporating a furan group into the MOF via “click” PSM, which can then undergo repeated cycles of modification and de‐modification with maleimides. The structural integrity, crystallinity, and porosity of the furan‐appended MOF remained intact even after three consecutive PSM/de‐modification cycles using three different functionalized maleimides.
Designing and Engineering Atomically Dispersed Metal Catalysts for CO2 to CO Conversion: From Single to Dual Metal Sites
Authors: Li Yi , Wang Huanhuan , Yang Xiaoxuan , O'Carroll Thomas , Wu Gang
Published: December 2023

The electrochemical CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR) is a promising approach to achieving sustainable electrical‐to‐chemical energy conversion and storage while decarbonizing the emission‐heavy industry. The carbon‐supported, nitrogen‐coordinated, and atomically dispersed metal sites are effective catalysts for CO generation due to their high activity, selectivity, and earth abundance. Here, we discuss progress, challenges, and opportunities for designing and engineering atomic metal catalysts from single to dual metal sites. Engineering single metal sites using a nitrogen‐doped carbon model was highlighted to exclusively study the effect of carbon particle sizes, metal contents, and M−N bond structures in the form of MN4 moieties on catalytic activity and selectivity. The structure‐property correlation was analyzed by combining experimental results with theoretical calculations to uncover the CO2 to CO conversion mechanisms. Furthermore, dual‐metal site catalysts, inheriting the merits of single‐metal sites, have emerged as a new frontier due to their potentially enhanced catalytic properties. Designing optimal dual metal site catalysts could offer additional sites to alter the surface adsorption to CO2 and various intermediates, thus breaking the scaling relationship limitation and activity‐stability trade‐off. The CO2RR electrolysis in flow reactors was discussed to provide insights into the electrolyzer design with improved CO2 utilization, reaction kinetics, and mass transport.
Citral encapsulation for an antimicrobial natural powdered‐additive: Performance of wall material and drying process
Authors: Alarcón‐Moyano Jessica Katherine , Herrera María Lidia , Matiacevich Silvia Beatriz
Published: December 2023

Citral encapsulation was analyzed by spray and freeze‐drying to obtain an antimicrobial additive in powder. Different formulations containing alginate and modified starch (Capsul®) as encapsulating agents (1% and 3% w/w, respectively) and maltodextrin as a wall material at different concentrations (varied from 1:1–1:4 Citral:Maltodextrin) were prepared. The powders were evaluated for physical and antimicrobial properties against Escherichia coli to obtain a natural antimicrobial food additive. Citral:Capsul:Maltodextrin powders obtained by spray‐drying showed the best physical properties, considering encapsulation yield (EY) (75%–80%), encapsulation efficiency (EE) (~78%), and particle size (5–10 μm), and a higher microbial inhibition at a lower additive concentration (1.5%–2% w/w), independently of maltodextrin concentration used. Powders obtained by freeze‐drying emulsions showed an EY ~70%, EE ~70%, particle sizes between 80 and 1250 μm, and a higher percentage of rehydration for antimicrobial activity (2.5%–4% w/w). An increase in maltodextrin concentration led to a decrease in %EE, an increase in particle size, and the powder concentration required to inhibit microbial growth. Therefore, the formulation 1:1:1 Citral:Capsul:Maltodextrin showed by spray‐drying showed the best characteristics to obtain a natural antimicrobial additive.
Guidelines in Practice: Design and Maintenance of the Surgical Suite
Authors: Speth Jennifer
Published: December 2023

Hospital construction and renovation is an ongoing occurrence in the health care setting. The recently updated AORN “Guideline for design and maintenance of the surgical suite” provides perioperative nurses with information on the layout design and maintenance of perioperative spaces; safety measures to use during construction and renovation; monitoring and maintenance of the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning; and how to respond to unintended utility failures. This article provides an overview of the guideline and discusses recommendations for the interdisciplinary team, planning and designing the surgical suite, construction‐related environmental contamination, ORs, and OR maintenance. It also includes a scenario describing specific concerns associated with the construction of an additional OR. Perioperative nurses should review the guideline in its entirety and apply the recommendations when participating in perioperative construction and renovation projects.
Operating Theater Nurses’ Main Concerns During Organ Procurement Procedures: A Grounded Theory Study
Authors: Andersson Linda , Forsberg Anna
Published: December 2023

The purpose of this study was to explore the experiences of perioperative nurses in Sweden (ie, operating theater nurses) associated with caring for a donor patient during organ procurement procedures. We sought to determine the nurses’ main concerns and how they dealt with them. Using constructivist grounded theory methodology, our participant sample included 10 nurses, one of whom self‐identified as male. The average age of the participants was 51.8 years (range = 38 to 63 years). After interviewing the participants and coding their responses, we developed the core category of optimum organ procurement. The generated grounded theory comprises four main categories: brace oneself, facilitate, procurement, and completion. Commitment is the force that binds the perioperative nurse to a course of action. This theory may help guide a team‐based approach to prepare nurses to care for donor patients with dignity and respect during procurement procedures.
Functionalized UiO‐66 as an efficient catalyst for the synthesis of bio‐based poly(1,3‐propylene sebacate)
Authors: Ma Xiaojun , Li Dexing , Wang Hongji , Wang Ziqing , Lv Yin , Wei Zhong
Published: December 2023

Organometallic catalysts such as titanium‐based ones are often used for the melt polycondensation to obtain polyesters. However, they are prone to hydrolysis and may discolor, which may have adverse effects on the molecular weight of the resulting polyesters and their applications. This work aims to use functionalized UiO‐66 catalysts for the melt polycondensation of polyesters composed of 1,3‐propanediol and 1,10‐decanedioic acid ether. The melt polycondensation proceeds in two steps: esterification and polycondensation. A catalytic mechanism is proposed. Compared with tetrabutyl titanate, a classical catalyst, the functionalized UiO‐66 ones are more water resistant, less toxic to, and do not discolor. It yields poly(1,3‐propylene sebacate) with higher molecular weights. Thus, they are efficient and greener catalysts.
The influence of quark anomalous magnetic moment in the Nambu–Jona‐Lasinio model with different regularizations
Authors: Tavares William R. , Nunes Rodrigo M. , Avancini Sidney S. , Farias Ricardo L. S.
Published: December 2023

The Nambu–Jona‐Lasinio model is known for its simplicity and capacity to reproduce some of the basic characteristics of the quantum chromodynamics phase diagram. However, since it is a nonrenormalizable model, there are regularization issues that should be treated conveniently. This is the case when considering the quark anomalous magnetic moment (AMM) when external constant magnetic fields are present. Regularization procedures based on entangled functions between the magnetic field and the cutoff of the model can predict first‐order phase transitions for chiral symmetry restoration at finite values of magnetic fields and inverse magnetic catalysis. The strengths of magnetic fields explored in NJL model and lattice QCD do not show first‐order phase transition. In the present work, we show that some of the previous results are regularization‐dependent effects and how to handle the divergences using the vacuum magnetic regularization scheme.
Exploring the intratumoral heterogeneity of DNA ploidy in prostate cancer
Authors: Vlajnic Tatjana , Müller David C. , Ruiz Christian , Schönegg René , Seifert Hans‐Helge , Thalmann George N. , Zellweger Tobias , Le Magnen Clémentine , Rentsch Cyrill A. , Bubendorf Lukas
Published: December 2023

Background

Prostate cancer is morphologically and molecularly heterogeneous. Genomic heterogeneity might be mirrored by variability in DNA ploidy. Aneuploidy is a hallmark of genomic instability and associated with tumor aggressiveness. Little attention has been paid to the biological significance of the diploid tumor cell population that often coexists with aneuploid populations. Here, we investigated the role of DNA ploidy in tumor heterogeneity and clonal evolution.

Methods

Three radical prostatectomy specimens with intratumoral heterogeneity based on nuclear features on H&E were selected. DNA content of each subpopulation was determined by DNA image cytometry and silver in situ hybridization (SISH). Genomic evolution was inferred from array comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH). Additionally, immunohistochemistry was used to examine the stemness‐associated marker ALDH1A1.

Results

Nuclear morphology reliably predicted DNA ploidy status in all three cases. In one case, aCGH analysis revealed several shared deletions and one amplification in both the diploid and the aneuploid population, suggesting that these populations could be related. In the other two cases, a statement about relatedness was not possible. Furthermore, ALDH1A1 was expressed in 2/3 cases and exclusively observed in their diploid populations.

Conclusions

In this proof‐of‐concept study, we demonstrate the feasibility to predict the DNA ploidy status of distinct populations within one tumor by H&E morphology. Future studies are needed to further investigate the clonal relationship between the diploid and the aneuploid subpopulation and test the hypothesis that the aneuploid population is derived from the diploid one. Finally, our analyses pointed to an enrichment of the stemness‐associated marker ALDH1A1 in diploid populations, which warrants further investigation in future studies.
The role of κ‐deformed Kaniadakis distributed electrons on the dust ion‐acoustic waves in charge‐varying dusty plasma
Authors: Bellahsene Zakaria , Bacha Mustapha , Zerguini Taha Houssine
Published: December 2023

The one‐dimensional dynamics of nonlinear electrostatic dust‐ion acoustic waves (DIAWs), in a plasma containing Kaniadakis‐distributed electrons, fluid ions, and variable‐charge dust grains has been investigated. The κ−generalized electron charging current is derived based on the orbit‐motion limited approach. The reductive perturbation technique has been used to derive a KdV Burger equation of propagation. We have highlighted the dependence between the values of the dust particles charge Qd0 and the validity domain of the Kaniadakis parameter κ, where the Burger term C has positive. By integrating the KdV Burger equation numerically and assuming a laboratory dusty plasma, a transition from oscillatory to monotonic shock waves is observed with increasing values of κ. We have also found that the phase velocity of DIA shock waves decreases, and the dissipation can prevail over that of dispersion as the electrons move further away from thermal equilibrium (κ is increased). The coexistence of compressive and rarefactive of monotonic shock profile is observed. It is found that an increase in κ leads to an increase of the compressive monotonic shock wave and decrease the rarefactive monotonic shock wave.
Impact of typical land use type on the stability and content of carbon and nitrogen of soil aggregates in western Hubei
Authors: Luo Ting , Xia Lu , Xia Dong , Liu Wenjing , Xu Yakun , He Zhiteng , Xu Wennian
Published: December 2023

In order to investigate the characteristics of soil structural stability and the factors influencing it under typical land use types in the karst region of western Hubei, soil samples were collected from five land use types (natural mixed forest [NF], cypress forest [CF], stone dike terrace [ST], stone dike forest [SF], and abandoned land [AL]) in Xialaoxi to analyze the particle size distribution of aggregates, structural stability, and the distribution characteristics of carbon, nitrogen, and extracellular enzyme contents. The results showed that the aggregates of NF, CF, SF, and AL were dominated by >2‐mm aggregates, while ST showed mostly 2–0.25‐mm aggregates. The mean weight diameter (EMWD) and the geometric mean diameter (EGMD) of mechanical aggregates showed a trend of CF > NF > SF > AL > ST, whereas the erodibility factor K showed an opposite trend. The total organic carbon (TOC), labile organic carbon (LOC), and total nitrogen (TN) contents of aggregates of each particle size were significantly higher in NF and CF than in ST and AL under the five land types. The content of available nitrogen (AN) was highest in NF and ST. The content of carbon and nitrogen and extracellular hydrolases (β‐glucosidase [BG], cellulose disaccharide hydrolase [CBH], β‐N‐acetyl‐aminoglucosidase [NAG], and leucine aminopeptidase [LAP]) in soil aggregates were mainly concentrated in <0.25–0.053‐mm aggregates. The variation in carbon and nitrogen abundance of each particle size agglomerate mainly originated from the LAP content of that particle size agglomerate and showed significant correlation. The partial least squares path models (PLS‐PM) showed that the main influences on the stability of soil aggregates in small watersheds were land use types, soil physical properties, carbon and nitrogen abundance, and extracellular enzyme activity. In conclusion, the structural stability of soil aggregates in Xialaoxi watershed is the result of the interaction between human disturbance and soil nutrient self‐cycling. In general, NF and CF have better soil aggregate stability and are conducive to soil carbon and nitrogen accumulation, whereas for later development and management of SF, ST, and AL sample plots, scientific cultivation means should be adopted, and attention should be paid to long‐term carbon and nitrogen accumulation and conservation.
Digital consults to optimize guideline‐directed therapy: design of a pragmatic multicenter randomized controlled trial
Authors: Man Jelle P. , Dijkgraaf Marcel G.W. , Handoko M. Louis , de Lange Frederik J. , Winter Michiel M. , Schijven Marlies P. , Stienen Susan , Meregalli Paola , Kok Wouter E.M. , Kuipers Dorianne I. , van der Harst Pim , Koole Maarten A.C. , Chamuleau Steven A.J. , Schuuring Mark J.
Published: December 2023

Aims

Many heart failure (HF) patients do not receive optimal guideline‐directed medical therapy (GDMT) despite clear benefit on morbidity and mortality outcomes. Digital consults (DCs) have the potential to improve efficiency on GDMT optimization to serve the growing HF population. The investigator‐initiated ADMINISTER trial was designed as a pragmatic multicenter randomized controlled open‐label trial to evaluate efficacy and safety of DC in patients on HF treatment.

Methods and results

Patients (n = 150) diagnosed with HF with a reduced ejection fraction will be randomized to DC or standard care (1:1). The intervention group receives multifaceted DCs including (i) digital data sharing (e.g. exchange of pharmacotherapy use and home‐measured vital signs), (ii) patient education via an e‐learning, and (iii) digital guideline recommendations to treating clinicians. The consults are performed remotely unless there is an indication to perform the consult physically. The primary outcome is the GDMT prescription rate score, and secondary outcomes include time till full GDMT optimization, patient and clinician satisfaction, time spent on healthcare, and Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire. Results will be reported in accordance to the CONSORT statement.

Conclusions

The ADMINISTER trial will offer the first randomized controlled data on GDMT prescription rates, time till full GDMT optimization, time spent on healthcare, quality of life, and patient and clinician satisfaction of the multifaceted patient‐ and clinician‐targeted DC for GDMT optimization.
A novel extended inverse‐exponential distribution and its application to COVID‐19 data
Authors: Kargbo Moses , Gichuhi Anthony Waititu , Wanjoya Anthony Kibira
Published: December 2023

The aim of this article is to define a new flexible statistical model to examine the COVID‐19 data sets that cannot be modeled by the inverse exponential distribution. A novel extended distribution with one scale and three shape parameters is proposed using the generalized alpha power family of distributions to derive the generalized alpha power exponentiated inverse exponential distribution. Some important statistical properties of the new distribution such as the survival function, hazard function, quantile function, moment, Rényi entropy, and order statistics are all derived. The method of maximum likelihood estimation is used to estimate the parameters of the new distribution. The performance of the estimators are assessed through Monte Carlo simulation, which shows that the maximum likelihood method works well in estimating the parameters. The GAPEIEx distribution was applied to COVID‐19 data sets in order to access the flexibility and adaptability of the distribution, and it happens to perform better than its submodels and other well‐known distributions.
Preparation of transition metal‐modified biochar materials and their effects on the removal of bisphenol A by persulfate activation
Authors: Hua Li , Zhao Hui , Dang Fanglin , Yu Lumengfei , Wei Ting
Published: December 2023

Metal‐loaded biochar (BC) catalytic systems are widely used for the removal of organic pollutants. However, there is still a lack of relevant research on the impact of different preparation conditions on the performance of synthetic materials. In the present research, CuO and Fe2O3 were loaded on the surface of Ginkgo biloba BC by a hydrothermal method and a chemical co‐precipitation method to prepare carbon‐based metal catalytic materials. Bisphenol A (BPA) was selected as the target pollutant to study the activation effect of the metal‐loaded BC to persulfate (PS). The results showed that the catalytic performance of the CuO/BC materials was better than that of Fe2O3/BC and Fe2O3/CuO/BC. By exploring the influence of the preparation process on the catalytic performance, it can be obtained that the optimal calcination temperature was 350°C and the optimal loading ratio was 2.5:1(w/w) for CuO/BC materials. The CuO/BC prepared under this condition could remove 81.5% of BPA within 60 min. The research results are beneficial to promote the efficient utilization of metal‐loaded BC in the field of organic pollutant removal.
Studies on sodium carboxymethyl cellulose + sodium triflate polymer electrolyte
Authors: Gupta Awanish , Rai Devendra Kumar
Published: December 2023

This paper presents the effect of salt concentration on the electrochemical, thermal, and structural properties of the solid polymer electrolyte (SPE) prepared with the polymer sodium carboxymethylcellulose (NaCMC) and the salt sodium triflate (NaCF3SO3). The electrolyte was prepared in the form of membranes using solution cast technique. Deionized water was used as a common solvent for both the precursor materials. The membranes were characterized using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). XRD results show reduction in crystallinity of the electrolyte with an increase in the salt concentration. The FTIR result confirms polymer‐salt interaction. The ionic conductivity of the electrolyte membrane was found to be dependent on the concentration of NaCF3SO3. The maximum ionic conductivity of the SPE membranes was observed to be 1 × 10−4 Scm−1 at room temperature (36°C). DSC results show an increase in glass transition temperature (Tg) with increasing salt concentration. The total ionic transference number of the highest conducting sample was found to be ~1, which shows that the conductivity of SPE membranes is predominantly due to the transport of ions.
Understanding retort processing: A review
Authors: Jimenez Paulina Simoneth , Bangar Sneh Punia , Suffern Mathew , Whiteside William Scott
Published: December 2023

Retort processing is a food preservation technique to address the challenge posed by Clostridium botulinum for commercial sterility of a food product to get microbiologically safe and stable products by heating. This review aims to explore the journey of retort processing, starting from its early use in single‐batch canned foods and progressing to its contemporary applications with different types of containers and heating mediums. Additionally, it will delve into the adaptability of retort equipment, including its ability to operate in stationary and various agitation states, as well as its flexibility in processing speed for both single‐batch and continuous operations.
Hedging performance analysis of energy markets: Evidence from copula quantile regression
Authors: Ren Xianling , Yu Xinping
Published: December 2023

This study investigates hedging performance with respect to different market structures for energy‐related commodities, including West Texas Intermediate crude oil, Brent crude oil, Chinese crude oil, and Heating oil. Copula quantile regression functions and the generalized autoregressive conditionally heteroscedasticity model are combined to analyze the nonlinear impact of dependence and the heterogeneous impact of market structure changes on hedging performance. Results show that hedging performance presents nonlinearity and market structure changes have surprisingly strong heterogeneous effects on the quantile hedge ratio, where bearish and bullish have lower hedge ratios than normal markets, which is captured better by Clayton copula quantile regression. Additionally, the trend of hedging effectiveness over different market structures also shows an inverted U shape. After changing data frequency or the types of futures contracts, the conclusions remain the same. Our empirical findings imply that hedgers are supposed to adjust the hedging number of futures according to market structure changes to hedge price risk effectively.
Effects of molybdenum addition to activated carbon supported Ni‐based catalysts for CO2 methanation
Authors: Akpasi Stephen Okiemute , Isa Yusuf Makarfi , Mahlangu Thembisile Patience , Kiambi Sammy Lewis
Published: December 2023

Recently, CO2 methanation has become a technique that aims to reduce anthropogenic CO2 emissions by converting CO2 captured from stationary and mobile sources and H2 produced from renewable sources into CH4. Due to their excellent performance‐to‐cost ratio, Ni‐based catalysts were frequently used in such conversions. The main drawbacks, however, are that Ni has the propensity to aggregate and deposit carbon during the high‐temperature reaction. These issues can be partially resolved by including a support (e.g., MOF, zeolite, activated carbon, etc.) and a second transition metal (e.g., Mo, Co, or Fe) in Ni‐based catalysts. Therefore, the activity of Ni‐based catalysts at low temperatures needs to be improved. In this study, a series of mesoporous activated carbon (AC) supported bimetallic Ni–Mo catalysts (Ni–xMo/AC, Ni = 13 wt.%, x = 5, 7, 9, 11 wt.%) were synthesized using the incipient wetness impregnation method. The effect of Mo content on the catalyst's activity was examined in a fixed‐bed reactor. At 250–650°C, 1‐atmosphere pressure, gas hourly space velocity (GHSV): 1200 mL h−1 g−1, and H2/CO2 ratio: 4:1, the catalytic efficiency of these catalysts was examined. The catalysts were analyzed using transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), X‐ray powder diffraction (XRD), N2‐physisorption, and scanning electron microscopy/energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (SEM‐EDX). Ni–7%Mo/AC catalyst showed the lowest carbon deposition rate, superior stability, and the best activity. The addition of Mo can improve the heat resistance of the Ni/AC catalyst and the interaction between the metal nickel and the support, which prevents the sintering of the catalyst. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Examining the generalisability of the simple view of reading comprehension for emergent bilinguals
Authors: Schaefer Maxine , Mohohlwane Nompumelelo , Wilsenach Carien
Published: December 2023

Reading comprehension depends on oral language competence and word reading ability, as per the simple view of reading. While this theory has been studied in Western, Educated, Industrialized, Rich and Democratic contexts, its applicability in different educational settings characterized by multilingualism, a lack of explicit reading instruction, and the challenges of poverty (as in South Africa) remains under‐explored. We use secondary data from approximately 263 emergent bilinguals (approximately one‐quarter isiZulu‐English, three quarters Siswati‐English) from the Second Early Grade Reading Study intervention. Participants completed tests of word reading fluency, vocabulary and reading comprehension in both of their school languages. Using within‐language path models, we examine the effects of word reading fluency and vocabulary on reading comprehension and explore whether these relations differ by first language group or intervention group. Thus, we tease out the role of the language and educational context in influencing the skills related to reading comprehension in first language and English additional language.
Mucosal response of inactivated and recombinant COVID‐19 vaccines in Congolese individuals
Authors: Mouzinga Freisnel H. , Heinzel Constanze , Lissom Abel , Kreidenweiss Andrea , Batchi‐Bouyou Armel L. , Mbama Ntabi Jacques D. , Djontu Jean C. , Ngumbi Etienne , Kremsner Peter G. , Fendel Rolf , Ntoumi Francine
Published: December 2023

Background

The efficacy of immunization against an airborne pathogen depends in part on its ability to induce antibodies at the major entry site of the virus, the mucosa. Recent studies have revealed that mucosal immunity is poorly activated after vaccination with messenger RNA vaccines, thus failing in blocking virus acquisition upon its site of initial exposure. Little information is available about the induction of mucosal immunity by inactivated and recombinant coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) vaccines. This study aims to investigate this topic.

Methods

Saliva and plasma samples from 440 healthy Congolese were collected including (1) fully vaccinated 2 month postvaccination with either an inactivated or a recombinant COVID‐19 vaccine and (2) nonvaccinated control group. Total anti‐severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 receptor‐binding domain IgG and IgA antibodies were assessed using in‐house enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays for both specimens.

Findings

Altogether, the positivity of IgG was significantly higher in plasma than in saliva samples both in vaccinated and nonvaccinated control groups. Inversely, IgA positivity was slightly higher in saliva than in plasma of vaccinated group. The overall IgG and IgA levels were respectively over 103 and 14 times lower in saliva than in plasma samples. We found a strong positive correlation between IgG in saliva and plasma also between IgA in both specimens (r = .70 for IgG and r = .52 for IgA). Interestingly, contrary to IgG, the level of salivary IgA was not different between seropositive control group and seropositive vaccinated group. No significant difference was observed between recombinant and inactivated COVID‐19 vaccines in total IgG and IgA antibody concentration release 2 months postvaccination both in plasma and saliva.

Conclusion

Inactivated and recombinant COVID‐19 vaccines in use in the Republic of Congo poorly activated mucosal IgA‐mediated antibody response 2 months postvaccination.
The progression of obstructive renal fibrosis in rats is regulated by ADAMTS18 gene methylation in the embryonic kidney through the AKT/Notch pathway
Authors: Xu Ben , Zhang Jia‐en , Ye Lin , Yuan Chang‐wei
Published: December 2023

This study aimed to explore the mechanism by which postembryonic renal ADAMTS18 methylation influences obstructive renal fibrosis in rats. After exposure to transforming growth factor (TGF)‐β1 during the embryonic period, analysis of postembryonic renal ADAMTS18 methylation and expression levels was conducted. Histological analysis was performed to assess embryonic kidney lesions and damage. Western blot analysis was used to determine the expression of renal fibrosis markers. Rats with ureteral obstruction and a healthy control group were selected. The methylation levels of ADAMTS18 in the different groups were analyzed. Western blot analysis and immunohistochemistry were performed to analyze the expression of renal fibrosis markers, and kidney‐related indicators were measured. Treatment with TGF‐β1 resulted in abnormal development of the postembryonic kidney, which was characterized by rough kidney surfaces with mild depressions and irregularities on the outer surface. TGF‐β1 treatment significantly promoted ADAMTS18 methylation and activated the protein kinase B (AKT)/Notch pathway. Ureteral obstruction was induced to establish a renal hydronephrosis model, which led to renal fibrotic injury in newborn rats. Overexpression of the ADAMTS18 gene alleviated renal fibrosis. The western blot results showed that compared to that in the control group, the expression of renal fibrosis markers was significantly decreased after ADAMTS18 overexpression, and there was a thicker renal parenchymal tissue layer and significantly reduced p‐AKT/AKT and Notch1 levels. TGF‐β1 can induce ADAMTS18 gene methylation in the postembryonic kidney, and the resulting downregulation of ADAMTS18 expression has long‐term effects on kidney development, potentially leading to increased susceptibility to obstructive renal fibrosis. This mechanism may involve activation of the AKT/Notch pathway. Reversing ADAMTS18 gene methylation may reverse this process.
Body image dissatisfaction during the first year of pediatric inflammatory bowel disease diagnosis
Authors: Cushman Grace K. , Rea Kelly E. , Westbrook Adrianna L. , Alexander Colleen , Reed Bonney
Published: December 2023

Objectives

Dissatisfaction with one's body can be distressing; youth with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) may be at increased risk for body image dissatisfaction given disease symptoms and treatment side effects. Yet, no studies have examined body image dissatisfaction over time in youth with IBD and whether depressive symptoms are associated with change in dissatisfaction.

Methods

Fifty‐seven pediatric participants (8–17 years old) newly diagnosed with IBD were enrolled. Youth completed questionnaires assessing body image dissatisfaction and depressive symptoms shortly after diagnosis (Time 1) and 12 months later (Time 2). Multilevel longitudinal modeling was used to test the extent to which body image dissatisfaction changed across the first year of diagnosis and to test change in body image dissatisfaction as a function of depressive symptoms.

Results

Findings indicated significant between‐ and within‐person variance in body image dissatisfaction over the 12 months, yet the sample as a whole did not report significant changes in dissatisfaction from Time 1 to Time 2. Children reporting depressive symptoms greater than their individual average over time reported greater body image dissatisfaction. Between‐person variation in depressive symptoms demonstrated a significant interaction with time. As an individual's depressive symptoms exceeded the group average, their body image dissatisfaction increased, although less drastically as time since diagnosis progressed.

Conclusions

Findings suggest that body image dissatisfaction is a complex and dynamic construct across youth and that interventions for pediatric IBD patients need to be tailored to the needs of individuals. Methods for assessing body image dissatisfaction efficiently and repeatedly across multiple visits are provided.
Evaluation of eating quality of white rice using Raman spectroscopy with multivariate analysis
Authors: Yamada Sohei , Saito Kohei , Maeda Hayato , Kanda Shinichiro , Uemura Toyokazu , Ogawa Takayo , Wada Satoshi , Hanada Yasutaka
Published: December 2023

The present study evaluated the eating quality of uncooked white rice using Raman spectroscopy, operating with a 532 nm excitation beam, in conjunction with multivariate calibration. This analysis was performed to establish correlations between features of the spectra and the results of conventional sensory tests with the aim of establishing calibration models. The accuracy of each model was confirmed based on the associated coefficient of determination (R2), root‐mean‐square error of calibration and root mean square error of prediction values. Models based on partial least‐squares regression provided reasonable predictions (R2 > 0.8) for the eating quality of white rice. In addition, the components affecting total evaluation were evaluated using the variable importance in projection technique, and the results showed that starch, amylose, amino acids, glucans, carbohydrates, and proteins are all crucial in terms of determining the quality of white rice. This newly developed method is likely to be suitable for the evaluation of rice quality and, in principle, could also be applied to the assessment of other foods.