bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interleukin 1β Levels around Microscrew Implants during Orthodontic Tooth Movement
Authors: Sarı Emel , Uçar Cihan
Published: May 2007

Objective: To determine whether interleukin 1β (IL-1β) levels are elevated around microscrew implants that are used as anchorage for tooth movement.

Materials and Methods: Ten young adults, aged 16.3 ± 2.5 years and with all four premolars extracted , comprised the study group. Twenty maxillary microscrew implants were placed bilaterally in the alveolar bone between the maxillary second premolars and first molars as anchorage units for distal movement of the maxillary canines. The maxillary canines served as the treatment group, and the microscrew implants were designated as the implant group. The mandibular canines were used as controls. Peri-microscrew implant crevicular fluid (MICF) and gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) were collected at the beginning of tooth movement (2 weeks after implant placement); at 24, 48, and 168 hours later; and on days 14 and 21. An automated enzyme immunoassay was used to measure 1L-1β in the MICF and the GCF.

Results: The mean 1L-1β level in the treatment group was significantly elevated at 24 hours (P = .003 < .05) and 48 hours (P = .003 < .05), whereas the levels in the control and implant groups did not change significantly during the experimental period. Also, the mean 1L-1β level of the treatment group was significantly higher that in both the control and implant groups at 24 and 48 hours.

Conclusions: The microscrew implants did not demonstrate increased 1L-1β levels during tooth movement. This supports the concept that microscrew implants might be useful as absolute anchorage devices.
Load-Deflection Characteristics of Superelastic Nickel-Titanium Wires
Authors: Bartzela Theodosia N. , Senn Christiane , Wichelhaus Andrea
Published: May 2007

Objective: To determine the mechanical properties of commercially available thermodynamic wires and to classify these wires mathematically into different groups.

Materials and Methods: The samples examined were 48 nickel-titanium (NiTi) alloy orthodontic wires commercially available from five manufacturers. These samples included 0.016-inch, 0.016- × 0.022-inch, 0.017- × 0.025-inch, and 0.018- × 0.025-inch wires. The superelastic properties of the NiTi wires were evaluated by conducting the three-point bending test under uniform testing conditions. The group classification was made under mathematically restricted parameters, and the final classification was according to their clinical plateau length.

Results: The orthodontic wires tested are classified as follows: (1) true superelastic wires, which presented a clinical plateau length of ≥0.5 mm; (2) borderline superelastic with a clinical plateau length of <0.5 mm and >0.05 mm; and (3) nonsuperelastic, with a clinical plateau length of ≤0.05 mm. The results showed that the range of products displays big variations in quantitative and qualitative behavior. A fraction of the tested wires showed weak superelasticity, and others showed no superelasticity. Some of the products showed permanent deformation after the three-point bending test.

Conclusion: A significant fraction of the tested wires showed no or only weak superelasticity. The practitioner should be informed for the load-deflection characteristics of the NiTi orthodontic wires to choose the proper products for the given treatment needs.
Clinical Evaluation of a Low-Friction Attachment Device during Canine Retraction
Authors: Deguchi Toru , Imai Mikako , Sugawara Yasuyo , Ando Ryoko , Kushima Kazuhiko , Takano-Yamamoto Teruko
Published: May 2007

Objective: The present study used a split-mouth design to compare the amount of canine movement and the retraction time between brackets with Clear Snap and brackets with stainless steel ligature wires for three different levels of retraction force.

Materials and Methods: A sample of 30 patients was used. After initial leveling, the canine was retracted using a 50-g (n = 10), 100-g (n = 10), or 150-g (n = 10) closed-coil spring. The canine on one side was chosen at random, and Clear Snap was attached to the bracket during the retraction period. The other side was used as a control. The amount of canine retraction was measured with a digital vernier caliper. Statistical analysis was performed by analysis of variance.

Results: The average canine retraction time was approximately 2 to 3 months less in all experimental groups (50, 100, and 150 g) compared to the control group. In the control group, 150 g resulted in a shorter duration of canine retraction compared to 50 g. There was no significant difference in the duration of canine retraction among the experimental groups. A greater amount of mean total canine movement was observed in all experimental groups compared to the control groups.

Conclusion: A shorter duration of canine retraction time was observed with Clear Snap attached when compared with the control. The authors suggest that with the use of Clear Snap, less than 50 g of force may effectively retract a canine.
Effect of Incisor Angulation on Overjet and Overbite in Class II Camouflage Treatment
Authors: Sangcharearn Yasinee , Ho Christopher
Published: May 2007

Objectives: To determine the amount of variation in overjet and overbite that may result from changes in upper and lower incisor angulations following upper first premolar extraction treatment in Class II malocclusions.

Materials and Methods: Typodonts were set up to simulate a skeletal Class II occlusion treated with upper first premolar extractions. The upper incisor angulation was altered through a range from 100° to 120° to the palatal plane by 2° increments. The overjet and overbite were measured with every 2° of upper incisor angulation change. A regression analysis was performed on the experimental data, and the regression coefficients, slope, and intercept were estimated.

Results: Excessive proclination of the lower incisors will result in an abnormal overjet and overbite relationship for any magnitude of upper incisor angulation. A normal lower incisor angulation facilitates the attainment of an optimal occlusion. Excessive palatal root torque of the upper incisors will result in an increase in overjet and a consequent decrease in overbite. If the upper incisors are excessively retroclined, an edge-to-edge incisor relationship will result.

Conclusion: Class II camouflage treatment with upper first premolar extractions requires correctly angulated incisors to achieve optimal buccal segment interdigitation and incisor relationship. Labial root torque and interproximal reduction of the lower anterior teeth should be considered when the lower incisors are excessively proclined.
Treatment of Class II Protrusion with Severe Crowding Using Indirect Miniscrew Anchorage
Authors: Choi Nak-Chun , Park Young-Chel , Lee Han-Ah , Lee Kee-Joon
Published: May 2007

This report describes the nonsurgical treatment of a patient with skeletal Class II protrusion and severe crowding. A 20-year-old woman presented with the chief complaint of lip protrusion and crowding. To correct the Class II relationship, severe crowding, and lip protrusion, distal movement of the maxillary first molars using indirect miniscrew anchorage and nickel-titanium coil springs, along with extraction of the first premolars and maxillary second molars, was planned. After the distal molar movement phase was complete, the maxillary first molars had moved 8.0 mm to the distal, and the first premolars, which were splinted to the miniscrews, had moved 0.5 mm to the mesial. The results show that the distal molar movement mechanics were efficient and stable. After treatment, all of the patient's chief complaints were relieved and an esthetic facial profile was obtained.
Strategies for Improving Precision in Group-Randomized Experiments
Authors: Raudenbush Stephen W. , Martinez Andres , Spybrook Jessaca
Published: May 2007

Interest has rapidly increased in studies that randomly assign classrooms or schools to interventions. When well implemented, such studies eliminate selection bias, providing strong evidence about the impact of the interventions. However, unless expected impacts are large, the number of units to be randomized needs to be quite large to achieve adequate statistical power, making these studies potentially quite expensive. This article considers when and to what extent matching or covariance adjustment can reduce the number of groups needed to achieve adequate power and when these approaches actually reduce power. The presentation is nontechnical.
Using Covariates to Improve Precision for Studies That Randomize Schools to Evaluate Educational Interventions
Authors: Bloom Howard S. , Richburg-Hayes Lashawn , Black Alison Rebeck
Published: May 2007

This article examines how controlling statistically for baseline covariates, especially pretests, improves the precision of studies that randomize schools to measure the impacts of educational interventions on student achievement. Empirical findings from five urban school districts indicate that (1) pretests can reduce the number of randomized schools needed for a given level of precision to about half of what would be needed otherwise for elementary schools, one fifth for middle schools, and one tenth for high schools, and (2) school-level pretests are as effective in this regard as student-level pretests. Furthermore, the precision-enhancing power of pretests (3) declines only slightly as the number of years between the pretest and posttests increases; (4) improves only slightly with pretests for more than 1 baseline year; and (5) is substantial, even when the pretest differs from the posttest. The article compares these findings with past research and presents an approach for quantifying their uncertainty.
Inside the Black Box of Doctoral Education: What Program Characteristics Influence Doctoral Students’ Attrition and Graduation Probabilities?
Authors: Ehrenberg Ronald G. , Jakubson George H. , Groen Jeffrey A. , So Eric , Price Joseph
Published: May 2007

The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation’s Graduate Education Initiative (GEI) provided funding to 54 departments in the humanities and related social sciences during the 1990s to improve their PhD programs. This article estimates the aspects of PhD programs the GEI influenced and how these aspects influenced attrition and graduation probabilities. It uses survey data on entrants to PhD programs at 44 of the “treatment” departments and 41 “control” departments during a 15-year period that spanned the start of the GEI. Factor analysis is used to group more than 100 program characteristics into a smaller number of factors, and the impact of the GEI on each and the impact of each on attrition and graduation probabilities are estimated. The article estimates the routes via which the GEI influenced attrition and graduation rates and indicates which aspects of PhD programs departments should concentrate on to improve their programs’ performance.
Supplemental Educational Services and NCLB: Policy Assumptions, Market Practices, Emerging Issues
Authors: Burch Patricia , Steinberg Matthew , Donovan Joseph
Published: May 2007

The supplemental educational services (SES) provision of No Child Left Behind introduces a federally mandated after-school tutoring intervention in schools that fail to make adequate yearly progress. This article examines market dynamics in relationship to the law’s goals of expanding access to and improving the quality of after-school programming. Analysis of operational and financial data from seven SES providers suggest that relative to smaller local firms, national firms are positioned to capture more of the SES market. Analysis of data on SES provider activity (from 2004 to 2006) within an urban district suggests that firms gaining market share charge higher hourly rates and have larger class sizes. Survey data from 30 state administrators reveal the limited capacity of states to monitor providers. This analysis points to a mismatch between the implementation of SES and the concerns for quality and equity that are claimed as priorities within federal law.
Estimation in SEM: A Concrete Example
Authors: Ferron John M. , Hess Melinda R.
Published: May 2007

A concrete example is used to illustrate maximum likelihood estimation of a structural equation model with two unknown parameters. The fitting function is found for the example, as are the vector of first-order partial derivatives, the matrix of second-order partial derivatives, and the estimates obtained from each iteration of the Newton-Raphson algorithm. The goal is to provide a concrete illustration to help those learning structural equation modeling bridge the gap between the verbal descriptions of estimation procedures and the mathematical definition of these procedures provided in the technical literature.
The Registered Dietitian in Primary Care: The Hamilton Experience
Authors: Gamblen Wendy , Schamehorn Sherri , Crustolo Anne Marie , Hussey Tracy , Kates Nick , Ackerman Sari
Published: May 2007

The Hamilton Health Service Organization Nutrition Program integrates nine registered dietitians (RDs) into the offices of 80 family physicians (FPs) at 50 sites in Hamilton, Ontario. The program is based on a shared care model, in which FPs and RDs work collaboratively to provide nutrition services aimed at prevention, treatment, and management of nutrition-related problems. In addition to their clinical role, dietitians in the program are involved in health promotion, disease prevention and early intervention strategies, interdisciplinary collaboration, building links with community services, and research. The RDs’ specialized knowledge, skills, and experience allow them to provide a wide range of services that complement and augment those of the FP. This model is consistent with Canadian health care reform recommendations and offers significant benefits for both health care providers and consumers.
Quieting the Quiver
Authors: Ward Kelley
Published: March 2024

In this narrative medicine essay, a pediatric hospitalist identifies her sense of foreboding as a quiver that has and can rob her of moment-to-moment joy and in identifying it learns to use it as a guide to peace.
Dystrophic Calcification in a 3-Piece Silicone Intraocular Lens
Authors: Annadanam Anvesh , Purt Boonkit
Published: March 2024

This case report describes a diagnosis of dystrophic calcification of a silicone intraocular lens implant in a patient who presented with foggy vision and glare.
Human Whole-Eye Donation for Research—Optimizing Clinical Trial Informed Consent
Authors: Bramstedt Katrina A.
Published: March 2024

Importance

Posthumous whole-eye (globe) donations for research lack a mechanism that reinvolves the existing ophthalmic research team of the donor unless there is a preplanned donor directive. Disconnection between the deceased and their research team equates to lost opportunities for the research team to have a longitudinal view of the eyes that have been involved in their research.

Objectives

To use the clinical trial informed consent process to create a posthumous research donation opportunity that directs the donation to the currently affiliated research team of the donors (preserving the longitudinal research experience).

Evidence Reviewed

Current globe donation pathways were reviewed. Additionally, published advice from the fields of ophthalmology, brain banking, and implantable medical devices were used as reference points.

Findings

Globe donation represents a small but valuable type of ocular donation. Globe donation for research purposes is useful for investigators performing total human eye allotransplantation clinical trials, as well as for ophthalmic drug or device researchers. Results suggest that those performing invasive eye research should include the option of posthumous globe donation in their study protocols and informed consent forms to facilitate more opportunities for the generation of scientific knowledge.

Conclusions and Relevance

The longitudinal perspective can be valuable especially for eyes that have received long-term treatment with an investigational drug or device. This article poses a research-informed consent framework for posthumous globe donation.
Molecular handcraft of a well‐folded protein chimera
Authors: Toledo‐Patiño Saacnicteh , Goetz Sara Kathrin , Shanmugaratnam Sooruban , Höcker Birte , Farías‐Rico José Arcadio
Published: March 2024

Modular assembly is a compelling pathway to create new proteins, a concept supported by protein engineering and millennia of evolution. Natural evolution provided a repository of building blocks, known as domains, which trace back to even shorter segments that underwent numerous ‘copy‐paste’ processes culminating in the scaffolds we see today. Utilizing the subdomain‐database Fuzzle, we constructed a fold‐chimera by integrating a flavodoxin‐like fragment into a periplasmic binding protein. This chimera is well‐folded and a crystal structure reveals stable interfaces between the fragments. These findings demonstrate the adaptability of α/β‐proteins and offer a stepping stone for optimization. By emphasizing the practicality of fragment databases, our work pioneers new pathways in protein engineering. Ultimately, the results substantiate the conjecture that periplasmic binding proteins originated from a flavodoxin‐like ancestor.
Color‐Tunable Organic Light‐Emitting Diodes with Single Pt (O^N^C^N)‐Dibenzofuran Emitter Exhibiting High External Quantum Efficiency of ≈30% and Superior Operational Lifetime
Authors: Mao Mao , Li Huiyang , Lo Kar‐Wai , Zhang Dongdong , Duan Lian , Xu Shuo , Wan Qingyun , Tan Kaixin , An Pengcheng , Cheng Gang , Che Chi‐Ming
Published: March 2024

Color‐tunable organic light‐emitting diodes (CT‐OLEDs) have a large color‐tuning range, high efficiency and operational stability at practical luminance, making them ideal for human‐machine interactive terminals of wearable biomedical devices. However, the device operational lifetime of CT‐OLEDs is currently far from reaching practical requirements. To address this problem, a tetradentate Pt(II) complex named tetra‐Pt‐dbf, which can emit efficiently in both monomer and aggregation states, is designed. This emitter has high Td of 508 °C and large intermolecular bonding energy of ‐52.0 kcal mol⁻1, which improve its thermal/chemical stability. This unique single‐emitter CT‐OLED essentially avoids the “color‐aging issue” and achieves a large color‐tuning span (red to yellowish green) and a high external quantum efficiency （EQE） of ≈30% at 1000 cd m−2 as well as an EQE of above 25% at 10000 cd m−2. A superior LT90 operational lifetime of 520,536 h at a functional luminance of 100 cd m−2, which is over 20 times longer than the state‐of‐the‐art CT‐OLEDs, is estimated. To demonstrate the potential application of such OLEDs in wearable biomedical devices, a simple electromyography (EMG)‐visualization system is fabricated using the CT‐OLEDs.
Self‐Assembled Interlayer Enables High‐Performance Organic Photovoltaics with Power Conversion Efficiency Exceeding 20%
Authors: Guan Shitao , Li Yaokai , Xu Chang , Yin Ni , Xu Chenran , Wang Congxu , Wang Mengting , Xu Yuxi , Chen Qi , Wang Dawei , Zuo Lijian , Chen Hongzheng
Published: March 2024

Interfacial layers (ILs) are prerequisites to form the selective charge transport for high‐performance organic photovoltaics (OPVs) but mostly result in considerable parasitic absorption loss. Trimming the ILs down to a mono‐molecular level via the self‐assembled monolayer is an effective strategy to mitigate parasitic absorption loss. However, such a strategy suffers from inferior electrical contact with low surface coverage on rough surfaces and poor producibility. To address these issues, here, the self‐assembled interlayer (SAI) strategy is developed, which involves a thin layer of 2–6 nm to form a full coverage on the substrate via both covalent and van der Waals bonds by using a self‐assembled molecule of 2‐(9H‐carbazol‐9‐yl) (2PACz). Via the facile spin coating without further rinsing and annealing process, it not only optimizes the electrical and optical properties of OPVs, which enables a world‐record efficiency of 20.17% (19.79% certified) but also simplifies the tedious processing procedure. Moreover, the SAI strategy is especially useful in improving the absorbing selectivity for semi‐transparent OPVs, which enables a record light utilization efficiency of 5.34%. This work provides an effective strategy of SAI to optimize the optical and electrical properties of OPVs for high‐performance and solar window applications.
PLGA‐Based Drug Delivery Systems: A Promising Carrier for Antidiabetic Drug Delivery
Authors: Sharmah Bhaben , Borthakur Amarjit , Manna Prasenjit
Published: March 2024

Poly(lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles have emerged as a versatile platform for drug delivery due to their biodegradability, biocompatibility, and tunable release kinetics. One of the primary applications of PLGA nanoparticles in diabetes management is the encapsulation and controlled release of insulin, overcoming the limitations of frequent injections. Such systems provide sustained and stable glycemic control, reducing the risk of hypoglycemia. Different types of PLGAs and their derivatives are used for preparing varieties of micro/nanocarriers to deliver insulin as well as diverse antidiabetic molecules, including glucagon‐like peptide‐1 (GLP‐1) and its analog (exendin‐4), crocetin, metformin hydrochloride, gliclazide, ferulic acid (FA), etc., to reduce hyperglycemia. Here the current state of research and development in PLGA‐based drug delivery systems for diabetes management are summarized. Various strategies employed to enhance the targeting specificity of PLGA nanoparticles in diabetes therapy are explored. The outcome will provide an insight into the drug delivery potential and efficiency of PLGA in managing hyperglycemia and that will be useful in designing novel therapeutic to improve better control of diabetes mellitus. As research in this field continues to progress, PLGA‐based systems hold great potential for revolutionizing the treatment paradigm for diabetes mellitus.
Emergency medicine residency pathways for MD/PhD trainees: A national cross‐sectional study of physician‐scientist training programs
Authors: Cyndari Karen , White Libby , Mudd Philip A. , Vakkalanka J. Priyanka , Krispin Sydney , Wallace Kelli , Schagrin Megan , Mohr Nicholas
Published: March 2024

Background

Combined clinical and research training is common in residency programs outside emergency medicine (EM), and these pathways are particularly valuable for combined MD/PhD graduates planning to pursue a career as a physician‐scientist. However, EM departments may not know what resources to provide these trainees during residency to create research‐focused, productive, future faculty, and trainees may not know which programs support their goal of becoming a physician‐scientist in EM. The objective of this study was to describe research training and resources available to MD/PhD graduates in EM residency training with a focus on dedicated research pathways.

Methods

This study was a cross‐sectional inventory conducted through an electronic survey of EM residency program directors. We sought to identify dedicated MD/PhD research training pathways, with a focus on both resources and training priorities. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize survey responses.

Results

We collected 192 survey responses (69.6% response rate). Among respondents, 41 programs (21.4%) offered a research pathway/track, 52 (27.4%) offered a research fellowship, 22 (11.5%) offered both a residency research pathway/track and a research fellowship, and two (1.0%) offered a dedicated EM physician‐scientist training pathway. Most programs considered research a priority and were enthusiastic about interviewing applicants planning a research career, but recruitment of physician‐scientist applicants was not generally prioritized.

Conclusions

Some EM residency programs offer combined clinical and mentored research training for prospective physician‐scientists, and nearly all residency programs considered research important. Future work will focus on improving the EM physician‐scientist pipeline by optimizing pathways available to trainees during residency and fellowship.
Effects of ammonia on the cellular, physiological, biochemical and genetic traits of Indian major carp (Labeo rohita) fry in artisanal Bangladeshi aquaculture
Authors: Zeehad Md. Shariar Kabir , Mridul Md. Monirul Islam , Chakrobortty Dipankar , Mahfuj Sarower , Aziz Dania , Hurwood David A. , Rahi Md. Lifat
Published: March 2024

The major carp Rohu (Labeo rohita) is a prime freshwater aquaculture species across the Indian subcontinent that faces various production‐related issues associated with water quality parameters. The present study examined the effects of three different doses of NH3 (T1 = 1 mg/L, T2 = 2 mg/L and T3 = 3 mg/L) on cellular (gill ultrastructure), physiological (growth and oxygen consumption rate), biochemical (blood cell counts, blood cortisol and glucose levels) and genetic (expression of five genes involved in growth, immunity and metabolism) traits of Rohu. The experimental ammonia dose significantly affected the tested biological parameters (p < 0.05), causing moderate‐to‐severe gill tissue damage. In general, compared with those in the control group, 16%–25% slower growth, 12%–30% lower survival and 15%–56% higher O2 consumption were observed for the treatment groups. Blood glucose and cortisol levels increased with increasing ammonia levels, but blood cell counts decreased. The five selected candidate genes showed a differential expression pattern in response to the ammonia dose, with higher expression in the control group and lower expression in the treatment groups. The results indicate that different concentrations of ammonia impose stress on different orders of magnitude in the experimental fishes. Therefore, it can be inferred that the presence of ammonia in aquatic/farming environments can adversely affect production performance; the severity of damage during production depends on the concentration of ammonia. Therefore, maintaining no or minimum ammonia levels in farming environments is urgently needed for sustainable aquaculture production of Rohu.
The effectiveness of psychiatric genetic counseling training: An analysis of 13 international workshops
Authors: Mack Tiera , Batallones Rolan , Morris Emily , Inglis Angela , Moldovan Ramona , McGhee Kevin , Zimmerman Kip D. , Austin Jehannine
Published: March 2024

Studies have consistently shown that psychiatric genetic counseling (pGC) helps people with psychiatric conditions by increasing empowerment and self‐efficacy, and addressing emotions like guilt. Yet, it is not routinely provided. Genetic counselors and trainees express low confidence in their ability to provide meaningful pGC, especially in the absence of adequate training. Therefore, to address this gap a “Psychiatric Genetic Counseling for Genetic Counselors” (PG4GC) workshop was developed and delivered to 13 groups of participants (primarily qualified genetic counselors and trainees) between 2015 and 2023 (10 workshops were delivered in‐person, and three virtually). Participants completed quantitative questionnaires both before and after completing the workshop to assess their comfort, knowledge, behavior, and feeling of being equipped to provide pGC. In total, 232 individuals completed the pre‐workshop questionnaire and 154 completed the post‐workshop questionnaire. Participants felt more comfortable, knowledgeable, and equipped to provide pGC, and reported being more likely to address psychiatric concerns after the workshop, regardless of whether they were trainees or practicing professionals and whether they completed the workshop in‐person or virtually. This study suggests that the PG4GC workshop is an effective educational tool in pGC training that may aid in broader implementation of the service.
Key variants via the Alzheimer's Disease Sequencing Project whole genome sequence data
Authors: Wang Yanbing , Sarnowski Chloé , Lin Honghuang , Pitsillides Achilleas N. , Heard‐Costa Nancy L. , Choi Seung Hoan , Wang Dongyu , Bis Joshua C. , Blue Elizabeth E. ,   the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI), Boerwinkle Eric , De Jager Philip L. , Fornage Myriam , Wijsman Ellen M. , Seshadri Sudha , Dupuis Josée , Peloso Gina M. , DeStefano Anita L. ,   for the Alzheimer's Disease Sequencing Project (ADSP)
Published: March 2024

INTRODUCTION

Genome‐wide association studies (GWAS) have identified loci associated with Alzheimer's disease (AD) but did not identify specific causal genes or variants within those loci. Analysis of whole genome sequence (WGS) data, which interrogates the entire genome and captures rare variations, may identify causal variants within GWAS loci.

METHODS

We performed single common variant association analysis and rare variant aggregate analyses in the pooled population (N cases = 2184, N controls = 2383) and targeted analyses in subpopulations using WGS data from the Alzheimer's Disease Sequencing Project (ADSP). The analyses were restricted to variants within 100 kb of 83 previously identified GWAS lead variants.

RESULTS

Seventeen variants were significantly associated with AD within five genomic regions implicating the genes OARD1/NFYA/TREML1, JAZF1, FERMT2, and SLC24A4. KAT8 was implicated by both single variant and rare variant aggregate analyses.

DISCUSSION

This study demonstrates the utility of leveraging WGS to gain insights into AD loci identified via GWAS.
Boosting Electrocatalytic Ethylene Epoxidation by Single Atom Modulation
Authors: Wang Hanyu , Wang Shuo , Song Yanpeng , Zhao Yang , Li Zhenyu , Shen Yuxiang , Peng Zhangquan , Gao Dunfeng , Wang Guoxiong , Bao Xinhe
Published: March 2024

The electrochemical synthesis of ethylene oxide (EO) using ethylene and water under ambient conditions presents a low‐carbon alternative to existing industrial production process. Yet, the electrocatalytic ethylene epoxidation route is currently hindered by largely insufficient activity, EO selectivity, and long‐term stability. Here we report a single atom Ru‐doped hollandite structure KIr4O8 (KIrRuO) nanowire catalyst for efficient EO production via a chloride‐mediated ethylene epoxidation process. The KIrRuO catalyst exhibits an EO partial current density up to 0.7 A cm−2 and an EO yield as high as 92.0 %. The impressive electrocatalytic performance towards ethylene epoxidation is ascribed to the modulation of electronic structures of adjacent Ir sites by single Ru atoms, which stabilizes the *CH2CH2OH intermediate and facilitates the formation of active Cl2 species during the generation of 2‐chloroethanol, the precursor of EO. This work provides a single atom modulation strategy for improving the reactivity of adjacent metal sites in heterogeneous electrocatalysts.
In Situ Observation of Solvent‐Mediated Cyclic Intermediates during the Alkene Epoxidation/Hydration over a Ti‐Beta/H2O2 System
Authors: Wang Chang , Chu Yueying , Lei Qifeng , Hu Min , Deng Feng , Xu Jun , Dai Weili
Published: March 2024

Solvent effects in catalytic reactions have received widespread attention as they can promote reaction rates and product selectivities by orders of magnitude. It is well accepted that the stable five‐membered cyclic intermediates formed between the solvent molecules and Ti species are crucial to the alkene epoxidation in a heterogeneous Ti(IV)−H2O2 system. However, the direct spectroscopic evidence of these intermediates is still missing and the corresponding reaction pathway for the alkene epoxidation remains unclear. By combining in situ 13C MAS NMR, two‐dimensional (2D) 1H−13C heteronuclear correlation (HETCOR) NMR spectroscopy and theoretical calculations, the five‐membered ring structures, where the protic solvents (ROH), and aprotic solvent (acetone), coordinate and stabilize the active Ti species, are identified for the first time over Ti‐Beta/H2O2 system. Moreover, the role of these cyclic intermediates in the alkene epoxidation/hydration conversion is clarified. These results provide new insights into the solvent effect in liquid‐phase epoxidation/hydration reactions over Ti(IV)−H2O2 system.
Effects of air inlet and outlet on thermal management of electric vehicle battery pack equipped with fins
Authors: Yu Jie , Zhang Yunsen , Qi Cong , Liang Lin
Published: March 2024

To solve the high heat dissipation problem of lithium ion battery, the air‐cooled heat dissipation with fins is adopted for the thermal management. Heat dissipation characteristics of two types of air inlets and outlets (single air inlet and outlet, and double air inlet and outlet) and two types of surfaces (smooth and fin structure) were simulated and compared. When the air inlet and outlet are single inlet and single outlet, compared with smooth battery packs, finned construction packs can increase the Nusselt number by 24.9%. When the air inlet and outlet are double inlet and double outlet, compared with smooth battery packs, finned construction packs can increase the Nusselt number by 13.3%. The double‐air inlet and outlet battery pack can significantly reduce the average temperature of the battery pack compared with the single‐air inlet and outlet battery pack. Compared with the single‐inlet and single‐outlet solar smooth battery pack, it can increase the Nu by 131.6%, and the comprehensive performance index can reach 1.66.
Volume exclusion effect and ambient temperature induced ultrahigh electromagnetic wave absorption properties of polylactic acid (PLA)/graphene nano‐platelets (GNPs) composites
Authors: Wang Sisi , Yang Wenjie , Li Xiping , Hu Zhonglue , Wang Bin , Gong Ningning
Published: March 2024

Conductive polymer composites (CPCs) have an excellent performance in dealing with electromagnetic (EM) radiation. The distribution of conductive fillers in CPCs plays a vital role in the electrical conductivity and EM wave‐absorbing properties. Moreover, the distribution evolution of GNPs in the PLA matrix caused by the enhanced volume exclusion effect via annealing was investigated. Polylactic acid with 8 wt.% graphene nano‐platelets (PG8) achieved best performance among the composites. After 5‐min heat treatment, the electrical conductivity and EM wave absorption properties of PLA/GNPs composites are significantly improved. With a simple treatment, the composite can reach an ultrahigh reflection loss (RL) value of −28.5 dB with a thickness of only 2.5 mm. By controlling the thickness in the range of 1–4 mm, the effective absorption bandwidth can be adjusted within 5.1–8.0 GHz. These methods provided in this work can effectively improve the EM wave absorption performance of CPCs and are worthy of being promoted.
Exploring the mechanical, rheological, and thermal performance of self‐reinforced composites based on polyamides and multi‐walled carbon nanotubes
Authors: Arnal Tomas , Eisenberg Patricia , Abad María J. , Ares‐Pernas Ana , Bernal Celina
Published: March 2024

Self‐reinforced composites (SRCs) based on different blends of PA6, PA12, and multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) as matrices and a PA6.6 plain woven fabric as reinforcement were prepared by the film stacking method. The morphology of the SRCs was analyzed using optical and scanning electron microscopy, both on cryo‐fractured and included polished cross‐sections samples. Rheological measurements were performed to assess the materials microstructure and thermal stability. In addition, uniaxial tensile tests were carried out to determine mechanical properties such as stiffness, strength, strain at break, and tensile toughness. The assessment of failure mechanisms was performed through acoustic emission in situ during tensile tests. Furthermore, fracture tests were carried out to evaluate the impact of incorporating MWCNTs on SRCs failure and fracture behavior. The obtained results suggest a notable improvement in the mechanical properties of the SRCs compared with the matrices, that is, tensile strength increased by 132% for SRC‐0, 83% for SRC‐0.5, 54% for SRC‐2.5, and only by 13% for SRC‐8. This study indicates that these SRCs appear as promising materials for high performance applications, which also require multifunctional characteristics.
Characterizing the dynamical magnetosphere of the extremely slowly rotating magnetic O9.7 V star HD 54879 using rotational modulation of the Hα profile
Authors: Küker Manfred , Järvinen S. P. , Hubrig S. , Ilyin Ilya , Schöller M.
Published: March 2024

The magnetic field in the O9.7 V star HD 54879 has been monitored for almost a decade. Spectropolarimetric observations reveal a rather strong mean longitudinal magnetic field that varies with a period of about 7.41 years. Observations in the H line show a variation with the same period, while the H line shows only little variation. Assuming the periodic variation to be caused by a slow rotation and a dipolar magnetic field, we find a magnetic field strength of 2 kG at the magnetic poles. With the relatively low mass loss rate of year−1, this star is a case of extremely strong magnetic confinement. Both theoretical arguments and numerical simulations indicate the presence of an extended disk of increased gas density in the equatorial plane of the magnetic field, where gas from the line‐driven stellar wind is trapped. This disk is likely to be the origin of the observed H emission, which peaks together with the strongest line‐of‐sight magnetic field. The profile of the H line is resolved in several components and shows a remarkable variability with the rotation period.
The impact of adverse childhood events on service support and educational outcomes of children who are autistic: A theory‐guided analysis using structural equation modeling
Authors: Hartwell Micah , Batioja Kelsi , Elenwo Covenant , Keener Ashley , Mazur Anya , Chesher Tessa
Published: March 2024

Autistic children who have experienced adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) may have barriers to receiving special education or other developmental services—thus, impacting educational outcomes. Our objective was to model such a pathway using the 2016–2021 National Survey of Children's Health datasets. We extracted data for school outcomes, use of special education and autism‐related specialty services and sociodemographic characteristics among autistic children within the data. Associations between sociodemographics and ACEs (categorized as 0, 1–3, and 4+) were tested using design‐based X2 tests. We then used structural equation modeling to map the quasi‐causal pathways. The sample for our analysis included 4717 autistic children—38.94% were aged 6–10 years, 35.73% of children aged 11–14 years, and 25.32% were between 15 and 17 years—with 88.70% living in metropolitan areas. The X2 showed significant relationships between ACEs and age, ethnoracial groups, and urbanicity among others. The SEM showed ACEs were directly associated with poorer school outcomes (β = −0.14 (0.04), p = 0.002) and through their inverse relationship with support services (β = −0.08 (0.04), p = 0.023)— when support services were increased, school outcomes improved (β = 0.62, p < 0.001). Findings suggested ACEs have a significant direct and indirect impact on school outcomes of autistic children, and 10.76% of children who are autistic have experienced four or more ACEs—which were more likely to occur with severe autism symptomatology and in rural areas. Results highlight the need for communities to recognize the potential long‐term impact of ACEs on the academic outcomes of autistic children.
Translocator protein expression and localization in human endometrium and endometriosis: A potential target for a noninvasive diagnosis?
Authors: Casalechi Maíra , Dela Cruz Cynthia , Assis Wiviane A. , Vieira‐Lopes Millene , Lopes Felipe Eduardo F. , Francisco Antônio M.C. , Reis Fernando M.
Published: March 2024

The limitations of current imaging methods to detect small or superficial endometriotic lesions prompt the search for new molecular targets. TSPO is an 18 KDa protein located in the outer mitochondrial membrane, which can be traced by positron emission tomography (PET) using specific ligands. TSPO is located mostly in neurons and inflammatory sites outside the brain. We hypothesized that it might also be expressed in the human endometrium and endometrial‐like tissue, being a target for molecular imaging of endometriosis. This prospective cross‐sectional study included 28 women with endometriosis and 11 endometriosis‐free controls. Endometriotic lesions (n = 49) and normal peritoneum (n = 13) from endometriosis patients were obtained during laparoscopy, while samples of eutopic endometrium from patients with endometriosis (n = 28) and from control women (n = 11) were collected in the operating room using a flexible device. TSPO mRNA expression was evaluated by quantitative reverse‐transcription real‐time PCR while protein expression was evaluated by immunohistochemistry with a monoclonal antibody antihuman TSPO. TSPO mRNA expression was detected in an invariable fashion in all tissue types evaluated; however, TSPO protein was found to be more abundant in the glandular epithelium than in the stroma, both in the endometrium and in the endometriotic lesions. Interestingly, hormone therapies did not alter the expression of TSPO, and its presence was mostly negative in tissues adjacent to endometriotic implants. As a proof of concept, the protein expression pattern of TSPO in endometriotic tissue and along the adjacent areas suggests that TSPO‐based molecular imaging might be used for noninvasive endometriosis detection.
Cerebrofacial arteriovenous metameric syndrome type I + II + III: An unusual case
Authors: Ahmed Shahroze , Kunwar Digbijay , Khan Muhammad Hamza , Akbar Anum , Yasin Asra , Anjum Abdul Sattar
Published: March 2024

Key Clinical Message

Cerebrofacial arteriovenous Metameric syndrome (CAMS) typically manifests as types I, II, or III, occasionally presenting as dual types. Our unique case underscores the coexistence of all three CAMS types in one patient. Furthermore, the concurrent acute cerebellar infarct underscores the need to consider CAMS in the differential diagnosis of adolescents experiencing neurological events.
Diastereoselective Dearomatizing Cyclizations of 5‐Arylpentan‐2‐ones by Samarium Diiodide – A Computational Analysis
Authors: Steiner Luca , Achazi Andreas J. , Kelterer Anne‐Marie , Paulus Beate , Reissig Hans‐Ulrich
Published: March 2024

This study analyzes the samarium diiodide‐promoted cyclizations of 5‐arylpentan‐2‐ones to dearomatized bicyclic products utilizing density functional theory. The reaction involves a single electron transfer to the carbonyl group, which occurs synchronously with the rate determining cyclization event, and a second subsequent proton‐coupled electron transfer. These redox reactions are accurately computed employing small core pseudo potentials explicitly involving all f‐electrons of samarium. Comparison of the energies of the possible final products rules out thermodynamic control of the observed regio‐ and diastereoselectivities. Kinetic control via appropriate transition states is correctly predicted, but to obtain reasonable energy levels the influence of the co‐solvent hexamethylphosphortriamide has to be estimated by using a correction term. The steric effect of the bulky samarium ligands is decisive for the observed stereoselectivity. Carbonyl groups in para‐position of the aryl group change the regioselectivity of the cyclization and lead to spiro compounds. The computations suggest again kinetic control of this deviating outcome. However, the standard mechanism has to be modified and the involvement of a complex activated by two SmI2 moieties is proposed in which two electrons are transferred simultaneously to form the new C−C bond. Computation of model intermediates show the feasibility of this alternative+ mechanism.
Elastin‐Like Peptide as a Model for Disordered Proteins: Diffusion Behaviour in Self‐Crowding Conditions
Authors: Weißheit Susann , Kuttich Björn , Vogel Michael , Thiele Christina Marie
Published: March 2024

Despite the current high interest, there is limited information on diffusion data for intrinsically disordered proteins (IDPs). This study investigates the effect of crowding on the diffusion behaviour of an elastin‐like peptide (ELP), by combined pulse field gradient (PFG) and static field gradient (SFG) NMR techniques. We interpret our findings in terms of highly dynamic chain assemblies with weak interactions, resulting in ELP diffusion that is primarily governed by the viscous flow of the solvent. The diffusion behaviour of the peptide appears to resemble that of globular proteins rather than flexible linear polymers over a wide concentration range.
Two types of biplots to integrate multi‐trial and multi‐trait information for genotype selection
Authors: Yan Weikai
Published: March 2024

Genotype × environment interaction (GE) and unfavorable associations among breeding objectives are the two key challenges in genotype evaluation and selection. Dealing with GE includes utilizing repeatable GE and accommodating nonrepeatable GE, and analytical tools for both steps have been developed in recent years. The genotype by yield × trait (GYT) analysis was also developed to address the issue of genotype selection based on multiple traits. However, a method to integrate both multi‐trial and multi‐trait information has been lacking. The purpose of this study was to fill the gap. Two types of biplots were described and demonstrated, using an oat (Avena sativa L.) dataset as an example. The G + GE biplot of GYT index graphically displays the mean and stability of the genotypes, considering all breeding objectives. The GYT biplot across trials graphically displays the overall superiority and the strengths and weaknesses of the genotypes, after accommodating the nonrepeatable GE. The two types of biplots rank the genotypes in the same order of superiority; they complementarily provide a complete picture of the genotypes and allow confident genotype evaluation, selection, and recommendation.
Efficient Ternary Organic Solar Cells with Suppressed Nonradiative Recombination and Fine‐Tuned Morphology via IT‐4F as Guest Acceptor
Authors: Zhang Yang , Huang Tianhuan , Weng Nan , Chen Yiwen , Wang Dongjie , Zhang Zheling , Liao Qiaogan , Zhang Jian
Published: March 2024

The large open circuit voltage (VOC) loss is currently one of the main obstacles to achieving efficient organic solar cells (OSCs). In this study, the ternary OSCs comprising PM6:BTP‐eC9:IT‐4F demonstrate a superior efficiency of 18.2 %. Notably, the utilization of the medium bandgap acceptor IT‐4F as the third component results in an exceptionally low nonradiative recombination energy loss of 0.28 V. The desirable energy level cascade is formed among PM6, BTP‐eC9, and IT‐4F due to the low‐lying HOMO and LUMO energy levels of IT‐4F. More importantly, the VOC of PM6:BTP‐eC9:IT‐4F OSCs can reach as high as 0.86 V, which is higher than both binary OSCs without sacrificing JSC and FF. Besides, this strategy proved that IT‐4F can not only broaden the absorption range but also work as a morphology modifier in PM6:BTP‐eC9:IT‐4F OSCs, and there also exists efficient energy transfer between BTP‐eC9 and IT‐4F. This result provides a promising way to suppress the nonradiative recombination energy loss and realize higher VOC than the two binary OSCs in ternary OSCs to obtain high power conversion efficiencies.