bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Only skull‐deep? Headbutting adaptations may not extend to the brain cavity
Authors: Ackermans Nicole L. , Reidenberg Joy S.
Published: January 2025

High‐impact headbutting behavior makes the muskox (Ovibos moschatus) a charismatic species. While many theorize how these headbutting bovids might protect their brain during such encounters, few have investigated their claims anatomically. We investigated the anatomical function of digitiform impressions in the bovid brain cavity and their relationship to headbutting. This work is divided into two parts. First, we provide an anatomical description of the muskox brain cavity for the first time in literature. We used computed tomography (CT) scans of adult and juvenile muskoxen skulls and scans of a goat (Capra hircus) skull for comparison. As the texture of the muskox brain cavity appeared pronounced, we sought to quantify the digitiform impressions that create this rough appearance, with the hypothesis that they support the brain and reduce injury during headbutting. We developed a simple measurement to quantify digitiform impressions called the endocranial roughness index (ERI). In the second part of this work, the ERI was applied to a sample of 59 headbutting and non‐headbutting bovid species. Contrary to our expectations, the quantitative assessment of digitiform impressions across various taxa revealed no correlation between endocranial roughness and headbutting. We conclude that endocranial roughness either only affects brain protection at a smaller scale, or endocranial roughness at the measured scale does not have an effect on brain protection significant enough to cause selective evolutionary pressure.
Pilot‐Scale Analysis of Stagnation and Flushing in Premise Plumbing
Authors: Hogue Derek , Steele McKenzie , Boyer Treavor H.
Published: January 2025

Research has demonstrated that water quality degrades in commercial and institutional (C&I) building premise plumbing leading to increased risk to consumers. This study aimed to bridge the gap between real premise plumbing systems and theory by using a pilot scale pipe rig representative of C&I premise plumbing. The research examined changes in key water quality parameters, including chlorine, copper, trihalomethanes (THMs), and cellular ATP (cATP) across different flushing and stagnation conditions. Results indicated significant degradation during periods of stagnation found in real premise plumbing, with reductions in chlorine levels and increases in copper and THM concentrations. Conversely, flushing effectively renewed water quality, though the extent varied with system size and flow dynamics. Correlations were found between key water quality variables. The findings emphasize the need for strategic water management practices to mitigate risks associated with poor water quality in building plumbing systems.
Method Development, Interlaboratory Comparison, and Occurrence Study for 19 Taste and Odor Compounds by Solid‐Phase Microextraction Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Adams Hunter , Reeder Sam , Kohoutek Katie , Hoppe‐Jones Christiane , Pochiraju Susheera , Southard Mark , Ikehata Keisuke , Espindola Carlos A. , Dietrich Andrea M. , Burlingame Gary A. , Nix Daniel K. , Marfil‐Vega Ruth , Jeffers Terry , (Mel) Suffet I. H. , Ashman Michelle , Duncan Kandé , Morales Eduardo , Lipps William C.
Published: January 2025

Public water systems (PWSs) need robust taste and odor (T&O) methods for a diverse range of compounds to proactively monitor their systems from source to tap and make informed treatment decisions. In this study, Standard Method 6040D T&O compounds by solid‐phase microextraction gas chromatography–mass spectrometry was revised to include 19 T&O compounds with various odor descriptors including earthy, musty, grassy, woody, fishy, septic, fruity, and sweet. An interlaboratory comparison was performed to determine method accuracy, precision, reproducibility, and ruggedness. Three laboratories achieved passing quality control (QC) acceptance criteria for all 19 compounds, and one laboratory achieved passing QC acceptance criteria for 14 compounds. In this article, occurrence data and method applications are also discussed, which will allow PWSs to monitor diverse classes of T&O compounds and make informed, proactive treatment decisions to maintain high aesthetic quality for their customers.
Roles of Traditional, Online‐Specific, and Cross‐Channel Marketing Instruments in Multi‐ and Omnichannel Fashion Retail Brand Equity
Authors: Klink Angelina , Swoboda Bernhard
Published: January 2025

Multi‐ and omnichannel retailers use various marketing instruments to position themselves as strong brands. However, we know surprisingly little about how strongly retail brand equity (RBE) benefits from the traditional, online‐specific, or cross‐channel instruments that consumers perceive when switching channels. This study fills this gap by leveraging categorization theory. It contributes to the literature by analyzing the roles of important marketing instruments for consumer loyalty decisions through offline and online RBE via a sample of 379 consumers surveyed at three different points in time as well as sequential mediation and cross‐lagged structural equation modeling. The findings highlight the distinct importance of the indirect and total effects of the instruments for loyalty through offline and online RBE. Furthermore, offline and online RBE reciprocally affect loyalty decisions to different extents, providing additional insights into the roles of the instruments. These findings have direct implications for managers seeking to understand the role of marketing instruments and the interactive role of offline and online RBE in customer loyalty.
Co‐Creating Content With Brands: Insights From Influencers' Perceptions
Authors: Filali‐Boissy Douniazed , Jouny‐Rivier Elodie , Perren Rebeca
Published: January 2025

This study examines the co‐creation process between brands and influencers, an emerging yet underexplored area of influencer marketing. Drawing on the DART model (Dialogue, Access, Risk Assessment, and Transparency) and six dimensions of co‐creation, the research examines how influencers contribute to collaborative content development. Using a mixed‐method approach, the study combines qualitative interviews with influencers and content agency managers in France and quantitative survey data collected from nano, micro and macro influencers to analyze the dynamics of influencer‐brand partnerships. The findings reveal three key stages of co‐creation: ideation, execution, and evaluation, with influencers prioritizing creative freedom, content control, and alignment with brand values as critical drivers of satisfaction at each stage. The article emphasizes treating influencers as equal creative partners to brands, showing how strategic collaboration enhances brand authenticity and audience engagement. The integrated framework highlights strategic opportunities in the evaluation stage through transparent communication and feedback, helping brands and influencers assess performance, refine strategies, and align with audience expectations. These insights provide practical recommendations for brands looking to strengthen influencer relationships and maximize the impact of co‐created content.
Catheter‐Directed Aspiration for Right Atrial and Right Ventricular Masses: Trends in Use Over the Years and Comparison Between Percutaneous and Surgical Thrombectomy for Clot in Transit
Authors: Murthi Mukunthan , Quevedo‐Ramirez Andres , Attanasio Steve , Jolly Neeraj , Dhar Gaurav , Singh Anshu , Malhotra Saurabh , Vij Aviral
Published: January 2025

Background

Percutaneous mechanical aspiration thrombectomy is increasingly being employed as a less invasive alternative for managing right heart masses, including clot in transit.

Aims

We aimed to analyze trends in the use of catheter‐directed aspiration (CDA) for right heart masses. Additionally, we analyzed in‐hospital outcomes of percutaneous versus surgical approaches for patients with CIT and PE.

Methods

We performed a retrospective cohort study based on the National Inpatient Sample (NIS) database from 2016 to 2020. Our population included patients who underwent catheter‐directed mechanical aspiration of right heart mass and thrombus to analyze trends during the study period. Moreover, we identified patients with acute PE stratified into cohorts: percutaneous catheter‐directed thrombectomy (CDT) and surgical embolectomy. The primary outcome was the composite endpoint of in‐hospital mortality, major bleeding, and stroke.

Results

A total of 1789 underwent CDA during the study period. There was an increase in usage of CDA for right heart thrombus and mass (203 in 2016 vs. 533 in 2020). Among patients with PE, 400 patients underwent CDT, and 150 patients underwent SE for clot in transit. On multivariate analysis, there was no significant difference in composite endpoints between the two groups (31.2% in percutaneous vs. 40% in the surgical group, p = 0.243). However, patients who underwent CDT had lower in‐hospital mortality than surgical thrombectomy (12.5 vs. 26.6%, p = 0.015).

Conclusions

There is a significant increase in the use of CDA for right heart thrombus and mass. Moreover, our study shows significantly lower in‐hospital mortality in PE patients with CIT undergoing CDT compared to surgical thrombectomy.
Corrosion effect of hydrochloric acid on the granite: Insights from electrical conductivity, mineral composition, and tensile behavior
Authors: Gao Yanan , Cheng Yikang , Cai Guanglei , Gao Yuan , Tian Jianwei , Gao Mingzhong
Published: January 2025

Hydrochloric acid (HCl) extensively exists in deep underground projects, arising from the transportation of industrial raw materials or fracturing fluids of petroleum engineering. It results in corrosion, which can significantly impact the stability of surrounding rock structures. Therefore, in‐depth analysis of the degradation of rock corroded by the HCl solution is an essential task for underground engineering. In this study, the granite specimens are initially treated with the HCl solution with various concentrations. Then, the tests and analyses, such as electrical conductivity (EC) measurements, mineral composition assays, and Brazilian splitting tests, are employed to investigate the corrosion mechanism of the HCl solution. Our results and findings are generally as follows: (1) As the immersion time increases, the EC exhibits a relatively high level at pH value of 1, a decreasing trend at pH value of 3, and an increasing trend at pH value of 5 and 7. (2) The HCl solutions with various concentration have different effect on mineral composition, characterized by an increase in proportion of SiO2 and a reduction in proportion of Na2O, Al2O3, K2O, MgO, and CaO, as the solution pH value decreases. (3) After immersion in the solutions with pH values of 1, 3, and 5, the tensile strength of the granite decreases by 23.85%, 20.84%, and 20.24%; the average stiffness of the specimen decreases by 29.29%, 23.43%, and 11.97%; the proportion of releasable energy increases by 6%, 4%, and −2%; the releasable energy decreases by 54.96%, 26.09%, and 14.52%; and the dissipated energy decreases by approximately 68.85%, 41.39%, and 5.41%, respectively. (4) The evolution of physical and mechanical properties of the immersed granite specimen can be analyzed from a chemical aspect. The corrosive action of HCl cleaves Si–O and Al–O chemical bonds within the granite, particularly altering the tetrahedral structures of its silicate components. This process involves breaking existing chemical bonds and the formation of new ones, ultimately destroying the silicate molecular structures. As the concentration of HCl increases, the rate of these reactions accelerates, progressively weakening the chemical bonds and consequently deteriorating the mechanical characteristics of the granite. These findings can deepen our knowledge about the corrosion effect of HCI solutions on natural surrounding rocks and serve as references for further research on rock corrosion mechanisms in underground engineering.
Impact of Pathogenic Fungi on Leaf Surface Wettability: A Case Study of Erysiphe castaneigena
Authors: Saiki Shin‐Taro , Ilek Anna , Ando Yuho , Sahashi Norio , Nanko Kazuki
Published: January 2025

Leaf surface wettability significantly influences rainfall interception and the overall water balance within forest ecosystems. However, the effects of biological factors, particularly fungi, on this critical property have not been extensively documented. In this study, we assessed the impact of Erysiphe castaneigena, a powdery mildew fungus, on the wettability of leaves from Japanese chestnut trees. We compared the wettability of infected and uninfected leaves by measuring the contact angles of water droplets on their surfaces. Our analysis revealed that leaves infected with the powdery mildew fungus displayed significantly higher hydrophobicity compared with uninfected leaves. This increased hydrophobicity correlated with the densification of the mycelium as the fungal coverage of the leaf surface expanded. These findings emphasize the substantial influence of phyllosphere microorganisms such as powdery mildew fungi on leaf wettability. Our results also enhance our understanding of the ecohydrological implications of microbial interactions on leaf surfaces, highlighting the need for further research into how these processes impact broader ecological and hydrological systems.
Development of High Power‐Density Motors for Electric Axles Using Nd‐Based Bonded Magnets
Authors: Naruse Kenya , Kim Choongsik , Kayano Masahiro , Watarai Aki , Mitarai Hironari , Nakamura Kenji
Published: January 2025

In recent years, a demand for smaller traction motors with higher power has arisen. This study focused on high‐speed rotation for miniaturization and developed a prototype motor using Nd‐based bonded magnets. It had a maximum rotational speed of 34,000 rpm, which is twice that of existing 50 kW‐class motors. The motor achieved the desired performance in the test in combination with a reducer. As a result, the weight of the prototype motor was reduced by 54%, and a power density of 6.7 kW/kg was achieved.
Application and Performance Evaluation of Backstepping Control for Drone 3D Trajectory Control
Authors: Meguro Yuya , Masuda Shiro , Toyoda Mitsuru
Published: January 2025

This paper addresses drone controller design with 3D target trajectory and presents a backstepping‐based controller taking into consideration the integral of tracking error. Performance evaluation is performed in situational and experimental environments, and the advantage of the proposed scheme is illustrated in the comparison with the conventional backstepping and the Proportional‐Integral‐Differential control. The experiment results show that the proposed scheme exploiting the integral of tracking error can reduce steady‐state error. Furthermore, they show that introducing a reference model experimentally improves the tracking performance for a given target trajectory.
Experimental and Analytical Study on Heat Transfer of Concrete With Different Degrees of Saturation Under Elevated Temperatures
Authors: Deng Jun , Cui Jiajie , Surahman Ridho , Tu Min , Wang Yi
Published: January 2025

In hygrothermal conditions, structural safety is a major concern because of the occurrence of explosive spalling when concrete structures are exposed to fire. To evaluate the fire damage of concrete accurately, the effect of moisture content and water‐to‐cement ratio on the thermal conductivity of concrete under elevated temperatures was studied experimentally and analytically in this paper. The experimental results showed that the temperature fields had a significant change among the cases with different water‐to‐cement ratios while the changes between dried and saturated cases were marginal. The temperature changes of dried samples were slightly swifter than those of saturated one. It indicates that compared with mixture proportions, concrete saturation degree has an insignificant influence on concrete heat transfer in the procedure of fire exposure. Based on the test and analytical results, an analytical model for heat transfer analysis of fire‐damaged concrete under hot and humid environments was proposed and showed good agreement with the test results.
Bank Capital Requirements, Lending Supply, and Economic Activity: A Scenario Analysis Perspective
Authors: Conti Antonio M. , Nobili Andrea , Signoretti Federico M.
Published: January 2025

We evaluate the relation between bank capital, lending supply, and economic activity using Italian data over 1993–2015, a period which covers three key post‐crisis regulatory and supervisory measures (the Basel III reform, the 2011 European Banking Authority [EBA] stress test, the European Central Bank's [ECB] Comprehensive Assessment, and launch of the Single Supervisory Mechanism—SSM). We quantify the impact of increased bank capital requirements using a novel procedure that recovers the magnitude of the policy measures, relying on scenario analysis and Bayesian VARs with a rich characterization of the banking sector. We document that the EBA and SSM measures unpredictably raised Tier 1 ratio by about 2.5 percentage points, leading to an average reduction in credit to firms and households by 5% and 4%, respectively, and to a decline in real GDP by over 2% and 4%. The Basel III bank capital increase is instead correctly anticipated in out‐of‐sample forecasting. These findings are robust to time‐varying model parameters and consistent with narrative sign restriction techniques.
Astronomical Forcing of Paleolake‐Level Fluctuations in the Eastern Ordos Basin Between the Late Carboniferous and Early Permian
Authors: Cao Yuge , Wang Jianqiang , Yang Wenjing , Yu Shuhang
Published: January 2025

A precisely constrained and high‐resolution geochronology will enhance our understanding of sedimentary evolution, tectonic influences and climatic variations, all of which contribute to hydrocarbon exploration. According to sedimentary analysis, the North China Craton is believed to have undergone a transition in its sedimentary environment from a marine to a terrestrial lacustrine–fluvial system during the Late Palaeozoic. However, the geochronology and driving forces associated with transgression and regression remain understudied. In this study, we employed a cyclostratigraphic method to analyse the gamma‐ray logging data from a Late Palaeozoic sequence in the Y69 well in the eastern Ordos Basin. We established an astronomical time‐scale for this sequence, spanning approximately 10.83 million years, from ~299.94 ± 0.32 Ma to ~289.11 ± 0.32 Ma, in order to provide a geochronological framework for the evolution of the Ordos Basin. Subsequently, we reconstructed paleolake‐level variations by applying sedimentary noise modelling to the tuned gamma‐ray series and conducted periodicity analysis to identify astronomical signals. Our results indicate that water‐level fluctuations in the eastern Ordos Basin were modulated by ~1.2‐Myr obliquity and ~ 2.4‐Myr eccentricity cycles, suggesting long‐term astronomical forcing on hydrological circulation. The in‐phase correlation between the reconstructed water level and global sea level at ~1.2‐Myr intervals suggests that sedimentation was controlled by oceanic systems through transgression/regression events before ~294 Ma. Conversely, the anti‐phase correlation between the reconstructed water level and global sea level at the same interval indicates that sedimentation was influenced by terrestrial systems through aquifer depletion and recharge after ~294 Ma. This shift in the correlation between water levels and global sea levels reflects the transition from an oceanic to a terrestrial sedimentary environment. These findings provide a high‐resolution geochronological framework for further investigations and offer new insights into hydrological circulation, improving our understanding of the driving mechanisms behind sedimentary evolution in the North China Craton during the Late Palaeozoic Ice Age.
Professionalisation of Community Health Workers: Time for a Formal Contract
Authors: Miranda Adriana Viola , Praha Rizky Deco , Sirmareza Trio , Aditya Rizky , Nugraha Ryan Rachmad , Rastuti Maritta , Asmara Rindang , Petersen Zack , O'Donovan James
Published: January 2025

Community health workers (CHWs) are the backbone of strong primary healthcare systems. If properly supported, they can add significant value to access to healthcare service delivery. Yet, despite their proven effectiveness globally, systemwide support for CHWs remains sub‐optimal. This study explores the concept of ‘proCHW’ programs ‐ where CHWs are skilled, supplied, supervised and salaried. We suggest a fifth component is added to this framework—security (defined as formal contracts). Currently, many CHWs work voluntarily without any formal contract, rendering them vulnerable to sudden replacements. Therefore, institutionalising formal contracts will provide legal safeguards for CHWs, ensuring fair and safe employment conditions, including a minimum wage and opportunities for career advancement. To enable funding for establishing formal contracts for CHWs, strong political commitment, public‐private partnerships, and tailored funding strategies based on local administrative systems are needed. By addressing these challenges, sustainable funding can be achieved, maximising the impact of CHW‐led programs and improving primary health care globally.
Numerical Analysis of Heat Transfer in Simultaneously Developing Laminar Flow in a Plane Duct With Constant Wall Temperature and Heat Flux Boundary Conditions
Authors: Belhocine Ali , Ahmed Houari Mohammed Sid , Stojanovic Nadica , Abdullah Oday Ibraheem
Published: January 2025

The present study concerns, from the angle of numerical simulation, a laminar flow in a plane duct with simultaneously developing velocity and temperature profiles. It is assumed that the fluid is Newtonian, viscous, and incompressible, with uniform and constant physical properties. The problem of laminar flow heat transfer is analyzed for both constant wall temperature and uniform wall heat flux boundary conditions. The basic equations governing the flow, including continuity, momentum, and energy, are solved numerically. Dimensionless variables are introduced to simplify the proposed procedure, and an explicit finite‐difference method is used to discretize the equations. The resulting computational method allows for the prediction of thermal behavior on an isothermal surface and under constant flux of certain parameters, such as velocity, temperature, and the Nusselt number. These results are presented graphically and discussed, highlighting the effect of certain variables on the outcome. Finally, a comparison is made with previous work, demonstrating good agreement.
Effect of iron fertilization on the growth of bermudagrass and zoysiagrass under shade and full sun
Authors: Taylor Jacob W. , Liu Haibo , White Sarah A. , Luo Hong
Published: January 2025

Field research was conducted in 2017 and repeated in 2018 to investigate the responses of two warm‐season turfgrasses, Diamond zoysiagrass [Zoysia matrella (L.) Merr] and Tifgrand bermudagrass (Cynodon transvaalensis Burt‐Davy x C. dactylon), to four levels of foliar applied ferrous sulfate (FeSO4 • H2O), control, 1, 3, and 5 kg ha−1 Fe grown under full sun and 40% continuous shade in the southern transition zone. The research was divided into four independent studies due to geographical differences in location: Diamond zoysiagrass under shade, Tifgrand bermudagrass under shade, Diamond zoysiagrass under full sun, and Tifgrand bermudagrass under full sun. Each study was assessed based on visual turfgrass quality (TQ), Normalized Difference vegetative index (NDVI), shoot chlorophyll index, shoot tissue nutrient concentrations, total root and verdure biomass, and verdure bulk density. TQ was highest with iron application to Tifgrand bermudagrass under full‐sun conditions. However, increases in TQ from iron applications were short‐lived. Overall, iron fertilization appears to enhance turf color and quality when grown in full sun to moderate shade.
Synthesis of BZR‐Cotoxin IV Analog and Evaluation of Its Cytotoxic Properties
Authors: Duengo Suleman , Hidayat Ace Tatang , Musa Weny J. A. , Maharani Rani
Published: January 2025

Our research team has successfully synthesized BZR‐cotoxin IV, despite encountering considerable difficulties stemming from its unique structural features. The molecule's ester bond is particularly susceptible to hydrolysis, which leads to instability during the synthesis process. Moreover, the tendency of its linear precursor to form diketopiperazine (DKP) adds another layer of complexity to the synthesis. To overcome these obstacles, we adopted a strategy centered on developing an analog compound. This approach was guided by structure–activity relationship (SAR) principles. The key modification involved substituting the hydroxy acid residue (Hiv) found in the original BZR‐cotoxin IV with its corresponding amino acid, valine. This strategic alteration was intended to not only potentially improve the compound's characteristics but also to streamline the synthesis procedure. The synthesis of [Val]7‐BZR‐cotoxin IV was accomplished using a hybrid approach that combined solid‐phase and solution‐phase peptide synthesis techniques. The linear precursor of [Val]7‐BZR‐cotoxin IV was produced using Fmoc chemistry on CTC resin, with HATU/HOAt serving as the coupling reagent for amide bond formation. This process yielded a 9.25% pure product as a white powder. The cyclization step was performed using HATU in a dilute solution, which produced cyclic [Val]7‐BZR‐cotoxin IV with a yield of 12.9% as a white powder. Cytotoxicity test was conducted on both the linear and cyclic forms of [Val]7‐BZR‐cotoxin IV together with its natural BZR‐cotoxin IV against HeLa cancer cells. The result showed moderate activity, with IC50 values of 297.60 μM for the linear precursor and 161.58 μM for the cyclic analog. Notably, the cyclic [Val]7‐BZR‐cotoxin IV demonstrated higher cytotoxic activity compared with its natural counterpart, BZR‐cotoxin IV, which had an IC50 value of 214.01 μM.
Accuracy of MRI R2* Mapping in Diagnosis of Liver Iron Concentration: A Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Cao Sue , Gao Xin , Wang Hua , Chen Yaoping , Xu Jianbo , Zhang Jie , Guo Ruomi
Published: January 2025

While current guidelines recommend R2* method as the first‐line method for liver iron concentration (LIC) measurement, its diagnostic accuracy is debatable. A prior meta‐analysis suggested limited accuracy of R2* method for identifying patients with iron overload. However, substantial advances in R2* method over the past decade may have improved its diagnostic performance. The purpose of this study is to explore the accuracy of the R2* method in identifying patients at clinically relevant LIC thresholds (1.8, 3.2, 7.0, and 15.0 mg/g). This is a meta‐analysis. On February 16, 2024, databases including PubMed, Medline, Embase, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library were searched for studies using the R2* method to quantify LIC. R2* values were derived from gradient echo sequence, with LIC from the FerriScan® (R2) or biopsy as reference standard. The true positive, false positive, true negative, and false negative at each LIC threshold (1.8, 3.2, 7.0, and 15.0 mg/g) were extracted from each study by two reviewers. Summary receiver operating characteristic (SROC) curves were generated using the hierarchical SROC (HSROC) model. Study quality was assessed using the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies 2 (QUADAS‐2). Twenty‐six studies with 1687 patients were included. In identifying patients at each LIC threshold (1.8, 3.2, 7.0, and 15.0 mg/g), the area under the SROC curves (AUCs) were 0.96 or higher, with pooled sensitivities of 0.95 or higher. Pooled specificities were 0.93 or higher; however, studies using biopsy as a reference showed a wide range 95% confidence interval (CI) (0.51–0.99) for identifying patients at the 1.8 mg/g threshold. The R2* method accurately identified patients at different clinically relevant LIC thresholds (1.8, 3.2, 7.0, and 15.0 mg/g). However, when biopsy is used as a reference, the method may be unstable for the 1.8 mg/g threshold (95% CI for pooled specificity, 0.51–0.99).

Level of Evidence

3

Technical Efficacy

Stage 2
Identification of diagnostic and therapeutic biomarkers for attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder
Authors: Lee Sheng‐Yu , Wang Liang‐Jen , Yen Cheng‐Fang
Published: January 2025

Attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common psychiatric condition among children and adolescents, often associated with a high risk of psychiatric comorbidities. Currently, ADHD diagnosis relies exclusively on clinical presentation and patient history, underscoring the need for clinically relevant, reliable, and objective biomarkers. Such biomarkers may enable earlier diagnosis and lead to improved treatment outcomes. Our research team has focused on identifying potential biomarkers for ADHD by investigating its possible pathomechanisms, with consideration of the aforementioned criteria. Given the significant sex‐related differences in ADHD prevalence (male predominance) and the age‐related variability in its symptomatology, we explored the role of neuroendocrine systems in ADHD. Specifically, we examined the epigenetic regulation mechanism involved in ADHD pathogenesis and developed a diagnostic model based on peripheral microRNA. Additionally, we investigated the role of microbiota dysbiosis in the pathophysiology of ADHD and provided novel insights into its management. This paper presents a summary of our findings on potential biomarkers for ADHD. By analyzing blood, salivary, and fecal samples, we identified several promising biomarkers that may serve as objective parameters for improving the diagnostic accuracy for ADHD. Further research involving larger cohort studies is required to confirm the reliability of these biomarkers.
Evolution Pattern and Frequency Coupling Relationship of Runoff and Sediment Under Changing Environmental Conditions: A Case Study of the Kuye River Basin in the Loess Plateau
Authors: Xu Yaotao , Li Peng , Guo Jiajia , Zhao Binhua , Liang Jialong , Pan Jinjin , Yan Zixuan , Yu Kunxia
Published: January 2025

Conducting a comprehensive investigation into the interplay between runoff and sediment discharge in a dynamic environment is essential to uphold aquatic ecosystems and promote sustainable regional development of high quality. Initiated since the 1950s, extensive soil and water conservation projects in the middle reaches of the Loess Plateau, China, have resulted in a substantial reduction in runoff and sediment discharge. This reduction has prompted alterations in the dynamics between runoff and sediment discharge, impacting the frequency of their interactions. Analyzing measured data from the Kuye River Basin (Kuye Basin) in the middle reaches of the Yellow River for the period 1956 to 2019, this study investigates the evolving patterns of runoff and sediment discharge. Utilizing the Copula function, we analyzed the joint probability distribution characteristics of runoff and sediment discharge, aiming to identify the factors influencing their evolution patterns. The findings revealed a substantial downward trend (p < 0.01) in both monthly and annual scales for runoff and sediment discharge in the Kuye Basin. Additionally, two abrupt changes were observed in 1979 and 1996, demonstrating multi‐timescale periodicity. Based on the mutation points, the study period was divided into three phases: P1 (1956–1978), P2 (1979–1995), and P3 (1996–2019). The optimal model for the joint distribution of runoff and sediment discharge is the Clayton Copula in both P1 and P2, while in P3, the optimal model shifts to the Gumbel Copula. Over the transition from P1 to P3, the runoff and sediment discharge in each recurrence period experienced a significant decrease, and the asynchronous probability of abundance encounters for runoff and sediment discharge at different design frequencies increased. Human activities, such as soil and water conservation measures, have influenced the variations in runoff and sediment discharge at different stages. With the passage of time, the effectiveness of current measures has approached saturation, resulting in cumulative values of nearly 28 × 109 m3 for runoff and 4.4 × 109 t for sediment discharge, respectively. These research findings lay the groundwork for a deeper comprehension of the evolving dynamics between runoff and sediment discharge in the basin and contribute to the formulation of effective policies for soil erosion control.
Academically based regional quality improvement hubs: Advancing Medicaid's quality strategy in the state of Ohio through state‐academic partnerships
Authors: Crane Dushka , Applegate Mary , Liu Gilbert , Lorenz Allison , Bolen Shari , Jordan Christopher R. , McCoy Melissa , Barley Jon , Yuan Yan , Jenkins Katie , Nance Melissa , Waweru Amber , Kubiak Jayne , Lorincz Caitlin , Spence Doug
Published: January 2025

Introduction

In 2022, the Ohio Department of Medicaid (ODM) launched a Managed Care Population Health and Quality Strategy to improve healthcare quality and equity for Medicaid Managed Care enrollees. Aligned with national quality objectives, the strategy focuses on personalized care, service coordination for complex needs, reducing health disparities, and includes performance incentives for Managed Care Organizations (MCOs) and innovative provider payment models. While Ohio has made progress in quality improvement, challenges remain in addressing statewide health indicators and disparities and helping healthcare providers adapt to performance‐based models. This report outlines a new approach that builds on Ohio's partnership with six colleges of medicine (CoMs) to support provider organizations and engage stakeholders in quality improvement (QI).

Methods

ODM established Regional QI Hubs within Ohio's CoMs to advance population health initiatives using the Model for Improvement developed by the Associate in Process Improvement. These academically based hubs collaborate with local healthcare clinics, community partners, and payers on QI projects to enhance care, reduce disparities, and strengthen health systems. By engaging stakeholders in designing and testing change ideas using Plan‐Do‐Study‐Act cycles and electronic health record data feedback, QI Hubs further the goals of the learning health system.

Results

Key lessons highlight the benefits of engaging academic institutions to build internal QI capacity and promote health equity. The model required substantial capacity building and commitment on behalf of academic institutions and strengthening of regional partnerships. Collaboration between MCOs and health clinics is focused on standardizing processes to access services and implement best practices. Patient, family, and community engagement efforts aim to improve patient experience and address drivers of health equity. Each partner leverages resources and benefits from the collaboration.

Conclusions

Ohio's academically based Regional QI Hub Model offers a promising approach to advancing population health. Policymakers are encouraged to consider integrating academic expertise into state quality strategies.
Effect of Defined Block Sequence Terpolymers on Antifungal Activity and Biocompatibility
Authors: Gmedhin Hatu , Schaefer Sebastian , Corrigan Nathaniel , Wu Peifeng , Gu Zi , Lenardon Megan D. , Boyer Cyrille
Published: January 2025

Invasive fungal infections cause over 3.7 million deaths worldwide annually, underscoring the critical need for new antifungal agents. Developing selective antifungal agents is challenging due to the shared eukaryotic nature of both fungal and mammalian cells. Toward addressing this, synthetic polymers designed to mimic host defense peptides are promising new candidates for combating fungal infections. This study investigates well‐defined multiblock terpolymers with specific arrangements of cationic, hydrophobic, and hydrophilic groups, as potential antifungal agents. The block sequence in these copolymers significantly impacts their minimum inhibition concentration (MIC) against Candida albicans and biocompatibility. Furthermore, compared to their statistical counterparts, these block polymers exhibit lower MIC values in certain instances. Notably, triblock terpolymers containing a central hydrophobic block present an enhanced antifungal efficacy and biocompatibility. These findings highlight the potential of block sequence‐controlled polymers as a versatile platform for developing customized and targeted antifungal therapies.
Exploring Self‐Repair Capabilities of ATSP Vitrimers for Crack Mitigation in Aerospace Applications
Authors: Raut Ajinkya , Meyer Jacob L. , Naraghi Mohammad , Polycarpou Andreas A.
Published: January 2025

Vitrimers, although categorized as thermosetting polymers, differ from traditional ones in that their thermally induced crosslinks undergo reconfiguration through covalent bond exchanges in response to thermal stimuli. Exchangeable bonds present significant and distinctive advantages for thermoset‐based aerospace composites, facilitating capabilities such as self‐repair and crack arrest through molecular bridging. In this work, the self‐healing behavior of four different blends of Aromatic Thermosetting Copolyester (ATSP) coatings, which are high‐performance vitrimer polymers, is tested by introducing micro‐scratches on the surface and healing them at higher temperatures. In three blends, the scratches are completely healed indicating complete repair. This property of the ATSP coatings can be useful in extreme conditions where micro‐cracks lead to failure. The healing ability of the vitrimers is discussed in terms of their mechanical properties and morphological parameters such as branch density.
High‐Performance Compact 48‐Channel Arrayed Waveguide Grating on Improved Silica Platform
Authors: Ma Junchi , Wang Liangliang , Sun Bingli , Chen Jun , Zhang Jiashun , Wang Yue , An Junming , Wu Yuanda
Published: January 2025

With the rapid development of backbone network rates, there has been a gradual increase in the number of channels and bandwidth. Increasing the number of channels typically leads to larger chip sizes, which is contrary to the trend of higher chip integration. Here, we simulate and design a compact 48‐channel 100 GHz arrayed waveguide grating (AWG) based on a 2.0% high refractive index silica platform using the three‐dimensional beam propagation method. The device performance under high refractive index difference is ensured by growing a pure silica protective layer between the core layer and the upper cladding layer using the PECVD process. The dimensions of this device are 21.8 × 8.4 mm², with on‐chip losses of less than 2.77 dB. The 1 dB bandwidth is greater than 0.47 nm, and the adjacent crosstalk is less than −30.07 dB. The eye diagram extinction ratio for 53.2 Gbps non‐return‐to‐zero (NRZ) transmission is 10.36 dB. The AWG we fabricate offers compact dimensions, high efficiency, and the ability to support ultrahigh‐speed signal transmission, which promises broad utility in future backbone network architectures.
Modeling of SIW Inspired Fractal Resonator Based Filter for S‐Band Applications
Authors: Surender R. , Oudaya coumar S. , Raja M.
Published: January 2025

A fractal complementary split ring resonator‐based S‐band filter using SIW is presented. The S‐band filter with a unique fractal complementary split ring resonator structure is used to obtain optimized performance. The fractal structure is defected on the conducting plane of the substrate. The SIW‐based hybrid fractal is analyzed for two combinations, i.e. with and without a gap. S21 of −1.8 dB and S11 of −24.75 dB and (2–4.4) GHz for with space; S21 of −1.5 dB and S11 of −31.2 dB and (2.1–3.6) GHz for without space. The S‐band filter is designed and its parameters are measured using prototype. The simulation and measurement results are observed.
Toward A D‐Band Thermoelectric Power Sensor
Authors: Becher Fatima , Ziadé François , Ba Doudou , Le Bihan Yann
Published: January 2025

This paper presents the design of a D‐band [110–170 GHz] thermoelectric power sensor for millimeter‐wave applications. The sensor is based on a transition between a rectangular waveguide and a coplanar waveguide, a matched load and a thermopile; a series of nickel/chromium thermocouple junctions. The sensor exhibits satisfactory performance, maintaining a return loss lower than −18 dB and an efficiency of over 80% through the entire D‐band. The sensitivity of the power sensor is about 0.1 mV/mW at 170 GHz.
Sexual Health, Pleasure, Justice, and Well‐Being in People With Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Diseases: A Scoping Review Protocol
Authors: Giardulli Benedetto , Prior Yeliz , Bumin Gonca , Kinikli Gizem I. , Prior James A. , Stones Simon R. , Flurey Caroline , Testa Marco , Lavender Andy , Battista Simone
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Sexual health, pleasure, justice (equity in sexual rights and experiences), and well‐being are crucial determinants of health and life quality, yet often overlooked in the rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases (RMD) field. However, this topic has received more attention recently, and there is a need to map the current literature to inform the direction of future studies. Hence, this protocol outlines a scoping review to systematically map existing evidence on sexual health in people with RMD, exploring key themes and identifying evidence gaps across multiple dimensions, including sexual well‐being, justice and pleasure.

Method and Analysis

This scoping review will follow the methodological guidance of the Joanna Briggs Institute and be reported using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analysis extension for Scoping Reviews. The search strategy will involve PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Central, CINAHL, PsychInfo, LGBTQIA+ Source, Web of Science, and the grey literature. Identified articles will be reviewed based on the eligibility criteria. The results will be narratively synthesised and aligned with the framework proposed by Mitchel et al. (2021), identifying four pillars of comprehensive public health for sexuality: ‘Sexual Health’, ‘Sexual Pleasure’, ‘Sexual Justice’, and ‘Sexual Well‐Being’.

Dissemination

The scoping review will synthesise the scientific literature published on sexual health, pleasure, justice and well‐being in people with RMD. This review will provide an understanding of how sexual health is addressed in the literature to inform future research and clinical practices. The findings will be disseminated as research publications, including peer‐reviewed article(s), conference abstract(s)/presentation(s), and plain language summaries.
Agricultural Cooperatives' Strategic Cooperation via Association: The Impacts of Asymmetric Bargaining Power and Yield Uncertainty
Authors: Xie Fengfeng , Zeng Shihong , Chen Lei , Wang Jia
Published: January 2025

Traditional agricultural cooperatives, despite achieving notable scales, encounter challenges in negotiations with powerful buyers, leading to low wholesale prices and production quantities, particularly for those with weaker bargaining power. To address these challenges and amplify agricultural cooperative bargaining power, a novel form of collaboration—farmers' cooperative associations—has emerged. This study therefore investigates strategic decisions of agricultural cooperatives regarding forming cooperative associations and explores the impacts of varying bargaining powers and yield uncertainty. Focusing on a three‐member supply chain consisting of two upstream cooperatives and a downstream supermarket, we consider separate and joint negotiation scenarios. We find that the wholesale price negotiated by the cooperative with stronger bargaining power in a separate negotiation may not always be higher than that negotiated by a cooperative with weaker bargaining power. Additionally, we observe that the wholesale price in a separate negotiation is not necessarily decreasing with the expected yield. Finally, we identify the conditions in terms of bargaining powers and yield uncertainty, under which the two cooperatives can achieve a win‐win situation from the cooperative association.
Explicit Topology Optimization Based on the Joint‐Driven Moving Morphable Components
Authors: Xu Jiaqi , He Chuhui , Liu Chang , Guo Xu
Published: January 2025

The moving morphable component (MMC) topology optimization method has garnered increasing attention recently due to its ability to provide explicit geometric parameters of optimized structures and seamless integration with CAD systems. However, the classical MMC method may encounter instability during the iterative process due to the excessively free movement of components and geometric defects caused by the incomplete fusion of components. This article proposes a novel joint‐driven MMC (JMMC) method to address these issues. The core idea involves introducing a set of joint components to control and constrain the movement and deformation of the ordinary components. These ordinary components are interconnected through the joint components, guiding their movement and deformation within the design domain to facilitate structural layout changes, and the sizes of both ordinary and joint components can also be simultaneously optimized to alter the structural topology. Compared to the classical MMC method, the JMMC method retains the advantages of fewer design variables, explicit geometric information of structural boundaries, and seamless CAD integration while effectively mitigating iterative instability and avoiding the “dirty geometry” issues caused by incomplete component fusion. Numerical examples demonstrate the effectiveness and robustness of the proposed method.
Efficient Method for Improving Fully Implicit Scheme in Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics for Highly Viscous and Non‐Newtonian Polymer Flow
Authors: Sasayama Toshiki , Inagaki Masahide , Inoue Yoshinori
Published: January 2025

Smoothed particle hydrodynamics (SPH), a fully Lagrangian particle method, has been widely used in various applications, such as the simulation of incompressible flow with a free surface. For highly viscous flow, which typically appears in polymer processing, a fully implicit scheme, which implicitly treats both the predictor and corrector procedures of the projection method in the SPH framework, is efficient and numerically stable. This study proposes a simple and efficient fully implicit scheme that improves predictive accuracy for highly viscous flow. The proposed scheme utilizes a recently developed scheme for highly viscous flow that performs the pressure calculation before the viscosity diffusion calculation, unlike the conventional projection method. This study further improves the viscosity diffusion calculation by considering a viscous diffusion term that is usually ignored due to the continuity equation. Including this term enables us to correctly perform calculations for non‐Newtonian flows. The increase in the computational cost that results from the inclusion of the term is alleviated by introducing a two‐step method for calculating the viscous diffusion terms. The developed scheme is applied to injection molding of a polymer melt between two parallel plates. The results show that the proposed two‐step implicit scheme reproduces the fountain flow behavior near the advancing front. In addition, a three‐dimensional molding simulation of a plate with a hole shows a significant improvement in the prediction of the filling pattern in the mold.