bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence and causes of blindness and distance visual impairment in Chinese adult population in 2022 during the COVID-19 pandemic: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Wang Hua , Xu Zhi , Chen Dandan , Li Huihui , Zhang Junyan , Liu Qinghuai , Shen Han
Published: February 2024

This cross-sectional study aims to investigate the prevalence and causes of visual impairment (VI) and blindness in Jiangsu Province, China in 2022 during the COVID-19 pandemic. Participants (n = 13,208, aged 18–93) underwent comprehensive ocular examinations. The prevalence and causes of binocular VI (presenting visual acuity [VA] ≥ 20/400 and < 20/63 in the better eye) and blindness (presenting VA < 20/400 in the better eye) were assessed according to the World Health Organization (WHO) criteria. The estimation of refractive error prevalence was conducted using the following classification: myopia ≤  − 0.50 diopters (D), high myopia ≤  − 6.00 D, hyperopia ≥ 0.50 D, and anisometropia ≥ 1.00 D. The overall prevalence of binocular VI and blindness was 21.04% (95% confidence interval [CI] 20.35–21.74%) and 0.47% (95% CI 0.37–0.60%). The highest prevalence of binocular VI was in the population aged 18–24 years old (46.29%, [95% CI 44.30–48.28%]), those with education at university and above (43.47%, [95% CI 41.93–45.02%]), students (54.96%, [95% CI 52.73–57.17%]). Uncorrected refractive error (URE) was the leading cause of presenting binocular VI (93.40%) and blindness (50.79%). The prevalence of myopia was 54.75% (95% CI 53.90–55.60%). Actions are needed to control URE and myopia within the adult Chinese population, with a particular emphasis on the younger, well-educated demographic.
Evaluation of morphological traits, biochemical parameters and seeding availability pattern among Citrus limon ‘Assam lemon’ accessions across Assam
Authors: Akhtar Suraiya , Ahmed Raja , Begum Khaleda , Das Ankur , Saikia Sarat , Laskar Rafiul Amin , Banu Sofia
Published: February 2024

The Assam lemon is a highly valued Citrus cultivar known for its unique aroma, flavor, and appearance. This study aimed to investigate the morphological, seeding pattern and biochemical variations within 132 populations of Assam lemon from across 22 districts of Assam along with the control samples, with the objective to offer comprehensive understanding that could facilitate the improvement of breeding programs and further improvement of this important cultivar. Clustering based on UPGMA algorithm for morphological and seeding pattern data were analysed at population level, revealed two major clusters, where all the populations of Upper Assam districts were in the same cluster with the original stock (control population). The populations from Tinsukia and Dhemaji districts displayed more close similarities with the control population in comparison to populations of Upper Assam districts. Another interesting observation was regarding flowering patterns, while populations from Upper Assam districts excluding Golaghat district displayed both bisexual and unisexual flowers with less concentration of unisexual flowers, other remaining districts had bisexual and unisexual flowers of almost equal concentration. Unisexual flowers contained only the male reproductive organs with 40 anthers, while bisexual flowers had 36 anthers. Seeding patterns were examined across the districts, and it was found that populations from Tinsukia, Dhemaji, Lakhimpur, Dibrugarh, Jorhat, and the control population exhibited seedless characteristic while populations from other selected districts displayed a combination of seedless and seeded traits. Interestingly, Golaghat district appears as the linking district and showed availability of both seeded and seedless Assam lemon fruit, connecting the regions of Barak valley, Central, Lower, North and Upper Assam. Biochemical analysis showed significant variations across districts, however, the populations from Dhemaji, Tinsukia, Lakhimpur, Dibrugarh, and Jorhat districts displayed similarity with the control population. The study also investigated variability in soil nutrient content revealing substantial variation among the populations studied. This comprehensive investigation provides valuable insights into the morphological, seeding pattern, and biochemical diversity within the Assam lemon cultivar. These findings can be instrumental in breeding programs to enhance the cultivar, particularly in producing high-quality seedless fruits to meet consumer demands.
Growth performance, meat quality, strength of jejunum and leg bones of both sexes Cherry Valley ducks fed with zeolite
Authors: Wlaźlak Sebastian , Biesek Jakub , Banaszak Mirosław
Published: February 2024

Zeolite, as a natural mineral, could be a good additive for ducks, in line with pro-environmental trends. The study aimed to evaluate zeolite additives in feed for broiler ducks of both sexes on production results, meat quality, and the strength of the jejunum, tibia, and femur. The experiment used 200 Cherry Valley ducks, divided into a control group of males (CM) and females (CF) and an experimental group of males (ZM) and females (ZF). In the control groups, a commercial diet was used. In the experimental groups, 1% zeolite was added. The ZM group demonstrated higher body weight and weight gain than the CM group. Zeolite reduced the feed conversion ratio. A higher liver weight was found in the experimental group (ZM). Notably, zeolite influenced the weight of male pectoral muscles. Higher water loss in the pectoral muscles and higher protein content in the leg muscles were found in the same group. Females had a higher weight of neck and wings with skin. Female pectoral muscles had lower protein and water content. Zeolite in feed at a 1% level for broiler ducks could be recommended as a natural additive that positively affects the ducks' production results concerning good quality meat.
Natural course of post-COVID symptoms in adults and children
Authors: Sugiyama Aya , Takafuta Toshiro , Sato Tomoki , Kitahara Yoshihiro , Yoshinaga Yayoi , Abe Kanon , Chanroth Chhoung , Ataa Akuffo Golda , Phyo Zayar , Kurisu Akemi , Ko Ko , Akita Tomoyuki , Kishita Eisaku , Kuwabara Masao , Tanaka Junko
Published: February 2024

More than 200 million COVID-19 survivors have lasting symptoms after recovering, but the duration and related risk factors remain uncertain. This study focused on all 6551 patients diagnosed with COVID-19 at a medical institution in Hiroshima from March 2020 to July 2022. In November 2022, a questionnaire survey was conducted regarding post-COVID symptoms and their duration. The prevalence and duration of post-COVID symptoms were illustrated using the Kaplan–Meier method. Risk factors for symptoms lasting over 3 months and interfering with daily life were assessed via multivariate logistic regression. A total of 2421 survivors responded: 1391 adults, 1030 children, median age 34 years (IQR 9–55), 51·2% male, 36·7% hospitalized, median time from infection to the survey was 295 days (IQR 201–538). Upon their initial recovery, the prevalence of post-COVID symptoms was 78·4% in adults and 34·6% in children. Three months later, the rates were 47·6% and 10·8%. After over one year, they were 31·0% and 6·8%. Regarding symptoms interfere with daily life, 304 people (12.6%) experienced symptoms lasting for over three months, with independent risk factors including age, being female, diabetes mellitus, infection during the Delta period, and current smoking. There was no significant association between vaccination history and post-COVID symptoms.
Rapid quantitative PCR equipment using photothermal conversion of Au nanoshell
Authors: Ahn Jae Sung , Park Woongkyu , Jeong Do Hyun , Choi Soo Bong , Ahn Sun Hee
Published: February 2024

The emergence of infectious diseases worldwide necessitates rapid and precise diagnostics. Using gold nanoshells in the PCR mix, we harnessed their unique photothermal properties in the near-infrared regime to attain efficient heating, reaching ideal photothermal PCR cycle temperature profile. Our photothermal PCR method expedited DNA amplification while retaining its detection sensitivity. Combining photothermal quantitative PCR with real-time fluorometry and non-invasive temperature measurement, we could amplify the target DNA within just 25 min, with a minimum detectable DNA amount of 50 picograms. This innovation in photothermal qPCR, leveraging the photothermal properties of gold nanoshells, will pave the way for immediate point-of-care diagnostics of nucleic acid biomarkers.
Glycerol kinase enzyme is a prognostic predictor in esophageal carcinoma and is associated with immune cell infiltration
Authors: Ying Fei , Chen Xuyong , Lv Lihong
Published: February 2024

The influence of lipid metabolism on tumorigenesis and progression has garnered significant attention. However, the role of Glycerol Kinase (GK), a key enzyme in glycerol metabolism, in Esophageal Carcinoma (ESCA) remains unclear. To further elucidate the relationship between GK and ESCA, we investigated GK expression levels using database information. Controlled studies employing immunohistochemistry were conducted on clinical ESCA tumor samples and normal specimens, confirming GK’s elevated expression in ESCA. Analysis of The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) data via Kaplan–Meier (KM) survival plots revealed that increased GK expression correlates with poorer ESCA patient outcomes, particularly in overall survival (OS) and disease-specific survival (DSS). Multiple regression analysis indicated that elevated GK expression is an independent risk factor affecting ESCA prognosis. Statistical analysis of prognostic data from clinical samples further corroborated this finding. Moreover, there appears to be a significant correlation between GK expression and immune infiltration, specifically involving certain T and B lymphocytes. In conclusion, elevated GK expression in ESCA is strongly linked to poor prognosis and increased immune cell infiltration, highlighting its potential as an independent prognostic biomarker and a viable therapeutic target.
Significant increase in graupel and lightning occurrence in a warmer climate simulated by prognostic graupel parameterization
Authors: Michibata Takuro
Published: February 2024

There is little consensus among global climate models (CGMs) regarding the response of lightning flash rates to past and future climate change, largely due to graupel not being included in models. Here a two-moment prognostic graupel scheme was incorporated into the MIROC6 GCM and applied in three experiments involving pre-industrial aerosol, present-day, and future warming simulations. The new microphysics scheme performed well in reproducing global distributions of graupel, convective available potential energy, and lightning flash rate against satellite retrievals and reanalysis datasets. The global mean lightning rate increased by 7.1% from the pre-industrial period to the present day, which was attributed to increased graupel occurrence. The impact of future warming on lightning activity was more evident, with the rate increasing by 18.4$$\%\,\textrm{K}^{-1}$$

%

K

-
1

through synergistic contributions of destabilization and increased graupel. In the Arctic, the lightning rate depends strongly on the seasonality of graupel, emphasizing the need to incorporate graupel into GCMs for more accurate climate prediction.
RETRACTED ARTICLE: Digital transformation, green innovation, and carbon emission reduction performance of energy-intensive enterprises
Authors: Liu Xiao-meng , Zhang Ying-quan
Published: February 2024

Digital transformation and green innovation are powerful initiatives to achieve carbon peaking, carbon neutrality targets and high-quality economic development. Using a sample of high energy-consuming listed enterprises from 2012 to 2021, a double fixed-effect model is constructed to verify the effect of green innovation on the carbon emission reduction performance of high energy-consuming enterprises, and digital transformation is used as a moderating variable to analyze the inner mechanism of green innovation affecting the carbon emission reduction performance of high energy-consuming enterprises under the effect of digital transformation. The empirical results show that green innovation can significantly improve the carbon emission reduction performance of energy-consuming enterprises, while digital transformation positively moderates the effect of green innovation on the carbon emission reduction performance of energy-consuming enterprises. When considering the industry heterogeneity, the moderation effect of digital transformation is significant in the chemical raw materials and chemical products manufacturing industry and the electricity and heat production and supply industry, but the petroleum processing and coking and nuclear fuel processing industry, the non-metallic mineral products industry, the ferrous metal smelting and rolling processing industry and the non-ferrous metal smelting and rolling processing industry are not yet significantly affected by green innovation and digital transformation. The findings of the study provide empirical evidence to promote the improvement of carbon emission reduction performance of energy-intensive enterprises in China and to achieve the "double carbon" target.
Novel molecular hepatocellular carcinoma subtypes and RiskScore utilizing apoptosis-related genes
Authors: Zhang Menggang , Zhang Shuijun , Guo Wenzhi , He Yuting
Published: February 2024

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the third leading cause of global cancer-related deaths. Despite immunotherapy offering hope for patients with HCC, only some respond to it. However, it remains unclear how to pre-screen eligible patients. Our study aimed to address this issue. In this study, we identified 13 prognostic genes through univariate Cox regression analysis of 87 apoptosis-related genes. Subsequently, these 13 genes were analyzed using ConsensusClusterPlus, and patients were categorized into three molecular types: C1, C2, and C3. A prognostic model and RiskScore were constructed using Lasso regression analysis of 132 significant genes identified between C1 and C3. We utilized quantitative polymerase chain reaction to confirm the model’s transcript level in Huh7 and THLE2 cell lines. Both molecular subtypes and RiskScores effectively predicted patients benefiting from immunotherapy. Cox regression analysis revealed RiskScore as the most significant prognosis factor, suggesting its clinical application potential and providing a foundation for future experimental research.
Polypyrrole-wool composite with electrical heating properties fabricated via layer-by-layer method
Authors: Lee Suhyun
Published: February 2024

This study presents the development of conductive polymer-textile composites with outstanding electric heating properties achieved through the in-situ polymerization of polypyrrole on wool-felt fabrics, renowned for their superior thermal insulation. Employing successive layer-by-layer (LBL) cycles facilitated precise control over the uniform deposition of polypyrrole with the fabrics. The investigation focused on the interaction between wool fiber and polypyrrole, evaluating appearance, add-on, and electrical heating performance with varying LBL cycles. The polymerization process resulted in the formation of spherical polypyrrole particles on the wool-felt, with deposition increasing alongside LBL cycle numbers. Mechanical properties, including tensile strength and bending rigidity, exhibited enhancement with polypyrrole deposition, while strain reduction was noted, with minimal influence from LBL cycles. Electrical properties, particularly surface resistance, displayed a rapid decrease up to the second LBL cycle. Concerning electrical heating performance, the application of a 12 V voltage resulted in a linear increase in surface temperature with increasing LBL cycles, peaking at 15.5 ℃. Notably, this sustained electrical heating effect persisted even after voltage removal, attributed to the low thermal conductivity of wool fiber. Moreover, the polypyrrole conductive layer maintained exceptional conductivity following repeated abrasion and washing, credited to improved uniformity through LBL cycles. The synergy of wool's insulating properties and polypyrrole's conductivity, as confirmed in this study, presents the potential for a highly efficient heating fabric. These developed materials exhibited improved heating performance, energy conservation, and minimal change in mechanical properties, making them suitable for applications such as electrical heating smart clothing.
Dissecting the spatiotemporal diversity of adult neural stem cells
Authors: Mitic Nina , Neuschulz Anika , Spanjaard Bastiaan , Schneider Julia , Fresmann Nora , Novoselc Klara Tereza , Strunk Taraneh , Münster Lisa , Olivares-Chauvet Pedro , Ninkovic Jovica , Junker Jan Philipp
Published: February 2024

Adult stem cells are important for tissue turnover and regeneration. However, in most adult systems it remains elusive how stem cells assume different functional states and support spatially patterned tissue architecture. Here, we dissected the diversity of neural stem cells in the adult zebrafish brain, an organ that is characterized by pronounced zonation and high regenerative capacity. We combined single-cell transcriptomics of dissected brain regions with massively parallel lineage tracing and in vivo RNA metabolic labeling to analyze the regulation of neural stem cells in space and time. We detected a large diversity of neural stem cells, with some subtypes being restricted to a single brain region, while others were found globally across the brain. Global stem cell states are linked to neurogenic differentiation, with different states being involved in proliferative and non-proliferative differentiation. Our work reveals principles of adult stem cell organization and establishes a resource for the functional manipulation of neural stem cell subtypes.
Sandwich-type aptamer-based biosensors for thrombin detection
Authors: Sahraneshin Samani Somayeh , Sameiyan Elham , Tabatabaei Yazdi Farideh , Mortazavi Sayed Ali , Alibolandi Mona , Ramezani Mohammad , Taghdisi Seyed Mohammad , Abnous Khalil
Published: February 2024

Aptasensors for thrombin, which feature a sandwich-type configuration, hold great promise in terms of their potential applications in diagnostics and therapeutics.
Cephalexin interaction with biosolids-derived dissolved organic matter: binding mechanism and implications for adsorption by biochar and clay
Authors: Schmidt Michael P. , Ashworth Daniel J. , Ibekwe Abasiofiok Mark
Published: February 2024

The antibiotic cephalexin binds to DOM under environmentally-relevent solution conditions through π–π bonding. Under conditions where cephalexin–DOM binding occurs, cephalexin adsorption by biochar and clay is impeded by DOM addition.
Inhibitory effects and reactions of gallic acid, catechin, and procyanidin B2 with nitrosation under stomach simulating conditions
Authors: Ren Shuncheng , Hu Haiyang , Zhu Xiaoai , Wang Shenli , Zhao Wenhong , Xie Dongdong , Xi Jun , Liu Kunlun
Published: February 2024

Study of the effects and mechanisms of different polyphenols on nitrosation reactions helps expand the development of polyphenols in functional food.
Screening and molecular dynamics simulation of ACE inhibitory tripeptides derived from milk fermented with Lactobacillus delbrueckii QS306
Authors: Wu Nan , Li Puyu , Shuang Quan , Wuhanqimuge
Published: February 2024

Screening effective ACE inhibitory tripeptide in fermented milk of Lactobacillus delbrueckii QS306 by peptidomics and molecular dynamics.
Enhanced magnetic susceptibility in Ti3C2Tx MXene with Co and Ni incorporation
Authors: Yang Yizhou , Anayee Mark , Pattammattel Ajith , Shekhirev Mikhail , Wang Ruocun (John) , Huang Xiaojing , Chu Yong S. , Gogotsi Yury , May Steven J.
Published: February 2024

We incorporate dilute concentrations of Ni and Co into Ti3C2Tx MXene, resulting in a >50 fold increase in magnetic susceptibility.
Mussel-inspired zwitterionic copolyethers for antifouling biomedical surfaces
Authors: Kim Minjung , Kim Minseong , Choi Woojin , Lee Milae , Kim Jieun , Kim Yeiji , Kim Kyung Hyun , Lee Ji Yeoun , Hong Jinkee , Kim Byeong-Su
Published: February 2024

Zwitterionic polyether brushes bearing mussel-inspired catechol moieties are developed for versatile coatings with improved antifouling properties on biomedical surfaces.
Precision control of molecular weight ratios in fully conjugated block copolymers using flow synthesis
Authors: Lee Seungjun , Kim Gyung-Tak , Kim Jueun , Kang Taehoon , Earmme Taeshik , Hwang Ye-Jin
Published: February 2024

Successful synthesis of fully conjugated block copolymers (BCPs) with controlled block ratios has been achieved in a reproducible manner using a flow reactor.
High-density accessible Ru–Se–Ni moieties boost the hydrogen evolution reaction by optimizing H absorption
Authors: Ma Shuang , Yang Peiying , Chang Jin , Zhang Heng , Li Mengjing , Zhang Siqi , Liu Jiafang , Wang Fanghan , Cheng Chuan , Zhou Ao , Li Qingbin
Published: February 2024

Ru-doped NiSe2 enhances HER, achieving 36 mV overpotential and exceptional durability in alkaline electrolytes, showcasing a novel approach to catalyst design.
Investigation on the growth aspects and properties of rubidium hydrogen succinate hydrate single crystal for NLO applications
Authors: Kavitha S. , Vizhi R. Ezhil
Published: February 2024

A transparent rubidium hydrogen succinate hydrate (RbHSH) single crystal was grown using a solution growth technique. The high mechanical stability and high transparency value of the RbHSH crystal make it a potential material for NLO applications.
Unveiling therapeutic efficacy of extract and multi-targeting phytocompounds from Christella dentata (Forssk.) Brownsey & Jermy against multidrug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Rahman Md. Mashiar , Islam Md. Rakibul , Talukder Md. Enamul Kabir , Atif Md. Farhan , Alam Rahat , Uddin A. F. M. Shahab , Anis-Ul-Haque K. M. , Islam Md. Saidul , Uddn Mohammad Jashim , Akhter Shahina
Published: February 2024

Christella dentata (Forssk.) Brownsey & Jermy has been commonly used in traditional medicinal practices but its effects on multi-drug-resistant (MDR) bacteria have remained unexplored.
Low voltage-driven, high-performance TiO2 thin film transistors with MHz switching speed
Authors: Chen Xiaoping , Ni Jiancong , Yang Weiqiang , Ke Shaoying , Zhang Maosheng
Published: February 2024

CMOS-compatible TiO2 transistors with on–off ratios of 107, a subthreshold swing of ∼150 mV Dec−1 averaged over four orders of magnitude, and excellent gate-pulse switching at 1.0 Hz to 1.0 MHz to be used as logic gates with a voltage gain of 4.8.
Controlled node growth on the surface of polymersomes
Authors: Thomas Marjolaine , Varlas Spyridon , Wilks Thomas R. , Fielden Stephen D. P. , O'Reilly Rachel K.
Published: February 2024

Nucleobase pairing was used to direct the formation and lengthening of nodes on the outer surface of polymersomes.
Liquid–liquid phase separation induced auto-confinement
Authors: Rizvi Aoon , Patterson Joseph P.
Published: February 2024

Liquid-liquid phase separation induced auto-confinement allows macromolecules to attain arrangements typically unachievable through conventional self-assembly processes.
Metalloid-doping in SMoSe Janus layers: first-principles study on efficient catalysts for the hydrogen evolution reaction
Authors: Vallinayagam M. , Karthikeyan J. , Posselt M. , Murali D. , Zschornak M.
Published: February 2024

Spin-polarized first-principles calculations were carried out to explore whether B, Si, and Ge-doped SMoSe Janus layers can be used as potential catalysts in the hydrogen evolution reaction.
A double-layer thin oral film for wet oral mucosa adhesion and efficient treatment of oral ulcers
Authors: Yan Yujie , Liu Tiannan , Tian Xin , Liu Jiang , Chen Qianming , Zhao Hang
Published: February 2024

A thin and lightweight double-layer oral film based on FDA approved excipients with excellent adhesion under wet oral conditions and satisfactory efficacy in oral ulcers is successfully developed.
Effect of azomethine structural modification of electrochromic performance
Authors: Gautier Yohan , Skene W. G.
Published: February 2024

Towards understanding the structural requirements for extending the anodic reversibility, a series of conjugated azomethine triads end-capped with amides were prepared.
Trap & kill: a neutrophil-extracellular-trap mimic nanoparticle for anti-bacterial therapy
Authors: Zheng Jingtao , Rong Lei , Lu Yao , Chen Jing , Hua Kai , Du Yongzhong , Zhang Qiang , Li Weishuo
Published: February 2024

A neutrophil-extracellular-trap mimic nanoparticle effectively eliminates bacteria in a trap & kill manner.
Substrate scope driven optimization of an encapsulated hydroformylation catalyst
Authors: Linnebank Pim R. , Kluwer Alexander M. , Reek Joost N. H.
Published: February 2024

Caged complexes can provide impressive selective catalysts.
A comparative overview of the electrochemical valorization and incorporation of CO2in industrially relevant compounds
Authors: Vanhoof Jef R. , Spittaels Sander , De Vos Dirk E.
Published: February 2024

This review covers the recent work on the electrochemical valorization of CO2towards key industrial compounds like carboxylic acids, urea and dimethyl carbonate by combining the eCO2RR intermediates with other active (in)organic reagents.
Solvent engineering of self-separating fullerene crystals for photodetectors
Authors: Tang Qin , Wang Lingyue , Liu Yang , Zhang Yuye , Ji Deyang , Li Hongbo
Published: February 2024

The size and morphology of organic single crystals play an important role in their physical properties and device performance, and are mainly driven by the self-assembly process via solvent engineering.
The Effect of Background Noise, Bilingualism, Socioeconomic Status, and Cognitive Functioning on Primary School Children's Narrative Listening Comprehension
Authors: Carlie Johanna , Sahlén Birgitta , Johansson Roger , Andersson Ketty , Whitling Susanna , Brännström Karl Jonas
Published: February 2024

Purpose:

This study focuses on 7- to 9-year-old children attending primary school in Swedish areas of low socioeconomic status, where most children's school language is their second language. The aim was to better understand what factors influence these children's narrative listening comprehension both in an ideal listening condition (in quiet) and for the primary school classroom, a typical listening condition (with multitalker babble noise).

Method:

A total of 86 typically developing 7- to 9-year-olds performed a narrative listening comprehension test (Lyssna, Förstå och Minnas [LFM]; English translation: Listen, Comprehend, and Remember) in two listening conditions: quiet and multitalker babble noise. They also performed the crosslinguistic nonword repetition test and a digit span backwards (DSB) test. A predictive statistical model including these factors, the children's degree of school language exposure, parental education level, and age was derived.

Results:

Listening condition had the strongest predictive value for LFM performance, followed by school language exposure and nonword repetition accuracy. Parental education level was also a significant predictor. There was a significant three-way interaction effect between listening condition, age, and DSB performance.

Conclusions:

Multitalker babble noise has a negative effect on children's narrative listening comprehension. The effect of multitalker babble noise could be explained by age differences in the ability to allocate working memory capacity during the narrative listening comprehension task, suggesting that younger children may be more vulnerable for missing information when listening in background noise than their older peers.

Supplemental Material:

https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.25209248
Impact of Narrative Task Complexity and Language on Macrostructure in Bilingual Kindergarten Children
Authors: Lipner Minna , Armon-Lotem Sharon , Fichman Sveta , Walters Joel , Altman Carmit
Published: February 2024

Purpose:

We investigated the impact of narrative task complexity on macrostructure in both languages of bilingual kindergarten children and the relationship of macrostructure across languages to guide practitioners' choice of assessment tools and aid in interpretation of results.

Method:

Thirty-nine English–Hebrew bilingual kindergarten children (
M
age
= 65 months) retold two narratives in each language: a one-episode story and a three-episode story. Stories were coded for macrostructure using five story grammar (SG) elements: Internal State-Initiating Event, Goal, Attempt, Outcome, and Internal State-Reaction. Linear mixed and generalized linear mixed models were used to analyze scores for total macrostructure, episode, and SG elements; correlations were conducted to examine cross-language relations in macrostructure.

Results:

In general, performance on the single-episode story was significantly better than for the three-episode story: higher percentages of SG elements were produced, with better performance in the home language/English. In addition to Task and Language effects, Age and Episode (Episodes 1/2/3 of the three-episode story vs. one-episode story) emerged as predictors of macrostructure. Performance on the different episodes of the three-episode story varied, with Episode 3 yielding scores similar to those on the one-episode story. Children produced more Attempts and Outcomes than other SG elements. Finally, the total macrostructure scores yielded low to moderate correlations across languages for both one-episode and three-episode stories, but there were no significant cross-task (one-episode/three-episode story) correlations.

Conclusions:

The study illustrates the importance of task complexity in narrative performance. Ideally, assessment should include a variety of tools, which would include narratives varying in complexity. However, time constraints do not always permit this luxury. The findings here may offer more to therapists than to diagnosticians. Narratives should be manipulated for episodic complexity not only in the number of episodes but also with regard to characters, goals, feelings, and reactions to events.

Supplemental Material:

https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.25222094
Model predictive control‐based tracking controller for hybrid‐driven underwater legged robot
Authors: Zhang Guangjie , Yan Weisheng , Cui Rongxin , Ma Feiyu
Published: February 2024

To address the tracking problem of the hybrid‐driven underwater legged robot, a control strategy is proposed that decomposes the whole tracking control system into two subsystems: body‐level and actuator‐level. The body‐level subsystem uses a central pattern generator (CPG)‐based controller to plan suitable gaits to meet the required heading and the forward velocity, crucial for accurate tracking in underwater environments. The actuators‐level subsystem employs a cooperative approach between the C‐shaped legs and thrusters of the robot. To execute the intended gait while adhering to actuation constraints and the no‐slip requirement, the torques of the legs are calculated by a model predictive control and feedback compensation (MPCF)‐based controller. Simultaneously, the calculation of the thrusters concerns four aspects to keep the legs attached to the ground and maintain the stable locomotion of the robot. Simulations on the ROS‐Gazebo platform verify the mobility of the robot and demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed CPG‐MPCF strategy.
Recent Highlights on Meson Spectroscopy at BESIII
Authors: Küßner Meike
Published: February 2024

Despite mesons being one of the longest known type of particles, there are still many open questions. Besides well understood states that can be clearly attributed to meson nonets, there are many candidates which could have an exotic nature instead. Such exotic particles e.g. glueballs, hybrids and tetraquarks can be favorably studied in clean, gluon rich environments. The BE-SIII experiment, which is in operation at the BEPCII electron-positron collider in Beijing since 2009, has collected world leading high statistic data samples in the charmonium region. This allows to study rare reactions that are considered to be suppressed. This offers unique possibilities to study exotic QCD states in the charmonium sector, but also the light meson spectrum which can be ac cessed via charmonium decays. Especially radiative J/ψ decays offer a gluon rich environment in which glueballs and hybrid states can be expected. Since these states are often hard to identify and disentangle, partial wave analysis are needed to determine the different contributions.
Precision measurements with Kaon decays at CERN
Authors: Fiorenza Renato ,   for the NA48/2 and NA62 Collaborations
Published: February 2024

The NA62 experiment at CERN collected the world’s largest dataset of charged kaon decays in 2016–2018, leading to the first measurement of the branching ratio of the ultra-rare K+ → π+vv− decay, based on 20 candidates. Recent results from analyses of K+ → π0e+vγ, K+ → π+µ+µ− and K+ → π+γγ decays, using a data sample recorded in 2017-2018, are reported. Preliminary results of the first observation and analysis of the K± → π0π0µ±v decay, based on the NA48/2 data collected in 2003-2004, are also shown.
The BGOOD experiment at ELSA, exotic structures in the light quark sector?
Authors: Jude Thomas , Braghieri Alessandro , Cole Philip , Eisner Daniel , Di Salvo Rachele , Fantini Alessia , Figueiredo Antonio Joao Clara , Freyermuth Oliver , Fromberger Frank , Ghio Francesco , Groß Johannes , Kohl Katrin , Levi Sandri Paolo , Mandaglio Guiseppe , Pedroni Paolo , Romaniuk Mariia , Scheluchin Georg , Schmieden Hartmut , Sonnenschein Adrian
Published: February 2024

The BGOOD photoproduction experiment accesses forward meson angles and low momentum exchange kinematics in the uds sector, which may be sensitive to molecular-like hadron structure. Recent results are presented, including strangeness photoproduction at forward meson angles, and π0π0 co herent photoproduction off the deuteron.
Revealing the Origin of Mass through Studies of Hadron Spectra and Structure
Authors: Roberts Craig D.
Published: February 2024

The Higgs boson is responsible for roughly 1% of the visible mass in the Universe. Obviously, therefore, Nature has another, very effective way of generating mass. In working toward identifying the mechanism, contempo rary strong interaction theory has arrived at a body of basic predictions, viz. the emergence of a nonzero gluon mass-scale, a process-independent effective charge, and dressed-quarks with constituent-like masses. These three phenom ena – the pillars of emergent hadron mass (EHM) – explain the origin of the vast bulk of visible mass in the Universe. Their expressions in hadron observables are manifold. This contribution highlights a few; namely, some of the roles of EHM in building the meson spectrum, producing the leading-twist pion distribution amplitude, and moulding hadron charge and mass distributions.
Studies of Time-like Electromagnetic Structure of Baryons with HADES
Authors: Ciepał Izabela
Published: February 2024

We present results of studies of Dalitz decays of baryon resonances (R→Ne+e−) in proton-proton (pp) and pion-proton (πp) collisions performed by the HADES collaboration. They provided the first measurement of electromag netic transition form factors of baryons in the time-like region and contribute to the understanding of the photon-baryon coupling and the role of Vector Dom inance Model in a baryonic sector. We discuss also implications of the results to the understanding of the emissivity of dense and hot QCD matter created in heavy-ion collisions and the role played by the in-medium modification of theρmeson. Further prospects for future studies with pion beams at GSI with HADES are given in the outlook.
N*(1520) transition form factors from dispersion theory
Authors: An Di
Published: February 2024

The electromagnetic transition form factors (TFFs) of the nucleon provide important information on the internal structure of hadrons. A model-independent dispersive calculation of the electro magnetic TFFs N*(1520) → N at low energies is presented. Taking pion rescattering into consideration, we derived dispersive relations for the N*(1520) → N TFFs that relate space-like and time-like regions from the first principles. Based on the space-like data from JLab and hadronic data measured by HADES, we make predictions for TFFs in the time-like region. Our predictions can be tested in future experi ments (e.g. HADES).
MUonE experiment
Authors: Goncerz Mateusz , Kucharczyk Marcin
Published: February 2024

The anomalous magnetic moment of the muon has been a long stand ing issue in the field of particle physics. The recent results by Fermilab have pointed to a possible discrepancy of 4.2σ with respect to the Standard Model prediction. Although the future measurements will undoubtedly strengthen this result, the large uncertainty of the prediction, caused by a non-perturbative hadronic contribution, remains an issue. The MUonE experiment is designed to provide an independent, precise measurement of this contribution by employ ing a series of tracking stations and low-Z targets, to precisely determine the shape of differential cross-section of an elastic µ + e → µ + e scattering. It is expected to increase the result’s significance to at least 7σ, thus solidifying the discovery. The design of the detector allows also for New Physics searches with a signature of displaced vertices.
Hadron-hadron potentials coupled to quark degrees of freedom for X (3872)
Authors: Terashima Ibuki , Hyodo Tetsuo
Published: February 2024

To study the internal structure of the exotic hadron X(3872), considering the coupled-channel potential between quarks and hadrons is necessary because X(3872) is regarded as a mixture state of cc¯ and D0D¯*0. In this work, we construct the hadron-hadron potentials coupled to the quark channel and study the properties of the D0D¯*0 potentials for X(3872). In particular, we compare various local approximations by focusing on the scattering phase shifts.
The Tcs (2900) as a threshold effect from the interaction of the D*K*, D*sρ channels
Authors: Molina Raquel , Oset Eulogio
Published: February 2024

Abstract. We investigate the D*K* and Dsρ* interaction in coupled channels within the hidden gauge formalism. A structure is developed around their thresholds, short of producing a bound state, which leads to a peak in the Ds+π¯ mass distribution in the B0 → D¯0 Ds+π¯ decay compatible with the experimental data. We conclude that the interaction between the D* K* and Dsρ* is essential to produce the cusp structure that we associate to the recently seen Tcs¯(2900), and that its experimental width is mainly due to the decay width of the ρ meson. The peak obtained together with a smooth background reproduces fairly well the experimental mass distribution observed in the B0 → D¯0 Ds+π¯ decay.
Pion absorption from the lowest atomic orbital in 2H, 3H and 3He
Authors: Golak Jacek , Urbanevych Vitalii , Skibiński Roman , Witała Henryk , Topolnicki Kacper , Baru Vadim , Filin Arseniy A. , Epelbaum Evgeny , Kamada Hiroyuki , Nogga Andreas
Published: February 2024

Abstract. The π− + 2H → n + n, π− + 3H → n + n + n, π− + 3He → n + d and π− + 3He → p + n + n capture reactions from the lowest atomic orbitals are investigated under full inclusion of final state interactions and employing the single-nucleon and two-nucleon transition operators derived at leading order in chiral effective field theory.
The measurement of the E2 nuclear resonance effects in kaonic atoms at DAΦNE: The KAMEO proposal
Authors: De Paolis L. , Abbene L. , Bazzi M. , Bettelli M. , Borghi G. , Bosnar D. , Bragadireanu M. , Buttacavoli A. , Cargnelli M. , Carminati M. , Clozza A. , Deda G. , Del Grande R. , Dulski K. , Fiorini C. , Friščić I. , Guaraldo C. , Iliescu M. , Iwasaki M. , Khreptak A. , Manti S. , Marton J. , Miliucci M. , Moskal P. , Napolitano F. , Niedzwiecki S. , Obertova J. , Ohnishi O. , Piscicchia K. , Principato F. , Sada Y. , Scordo A. , Sgaramella F. , Silarski M. , Sirghi D.L. , Sirghi F. , Skurzok M. , Wycech S. , Spallone A. , Toho K. , Tüchler M. , Yoshida C. , Zappettini A. , Zmeskal J. , Curceanu C.
Published: February 2024

KAMEO (Kaonic Atoms Measuring Nuclear Resonance Effects Ob-servables) is a proposal for an experiment aiming to perform the first consistent measurement of the E2 nuclear resonance effects in kaonic molybdenum A=94,96,98,100 isotopes. The E2 nuclear resonance mixes atomic states, due to the electrical quadrupole excitation of nuclear rotational states. It occurs in atoms having the energy of a nuclear excitation state closely matching an atomic de-excitation state energy, and affects the rates of X-ray atomic transitions matching the energy of the resonance. The measurement E2 nuclear resonance effect in KMO isotopes allows the study of the strong kaon-nucleus interaction in a rotational excited nuclear state. Moreover, the effect enables the K- to access an inner atomic level not easily reachable by the kaon normal cascade, due to the nuclear absorption. The KAMEO proposed apparatus consists of 4 enriched Mo A=94,96,98,100 isotope strips, exposed to the kaons produced by the DAφNE collider, for kaonic atoms formation, with a high-purity germanium detector, cooled with liquid nitrogen, used to measure the X-ray atomic transitions. The DAφNE collider is located at the National Laboratories of Frascati (LNF-INFN), in Italy. It is already suited for kaonic atoms measurement by the SIDDHARTA-2 collaboration.
Production and decays of hyperons in p+p reactions measured with HADES
Authors: Sumara Konrad
Published: February 2024

Abstract. Preliminary results of inclusive σ+(1385) production in p + p reactions at Ebeam = 4.5 GeV and Λ(1520) in p + p and p + Nb at Ebeam = 3.5 GeV are presented. Both measurements were performed by the HADES ("High Acceptance Di-Electron Spectrometer") experiment at FAIR/GSI. The analysis consisted of multiple steps including track reconstruction, particle identification and the reconstruction of the hyperon signal from their hadronic decays Λ(1520) → Λπ+π− and σ+(1385) → Λπ+. The main part of the analysis, which is signal/background classification, was performed utilizing Machine Learning methods. The employed method relied on a data-driven approach called “Classification Without Labels" and the Multilayer Perceptron style Artificial Neural Networks. The analysis resulted in reconstruction of the resonance distributions for both σ+(1385) and Λ(1520), and allowed for the extraction of parameters of the relativistic Breit-Wigner distributions.
Model selection in electromagnetic production of kaons
Authors: Skoupil Dalibor , Bydžovský Petr , Cieplý Aleš , Petrellis Dimitrios , Trnková Denisa
Published: February 2024

Abstract. New isobar models for the photoproduction of kaons off the proton target were constructed utilizing a consistent formalism for exchanges of high-spin resonances and energy-dependent widths of nucleon resonances. For adjusting the free parameters of the model to experimental data we employ reg-ularization techniques, which prevent us from overfitting the data. We analysed the plentiful data on the K+Λ channel as well as the recent data on K+σ− channel and compare the results with data.
Insulated tip/needle-knife endoscopic stricturotomy is safe and effective for treatment of non-traversable anorectal strictures
Authors: Herman Koby , Kiran Ravi P. , Shen Bo
Published: February 2024

Background and study aims The treatment of anorectal strictures
is particularly challenging and historically focused on surgical resection and/or diversion.
There are a number of endoscopic options, but repeat interventions are common. The use of the
needle knife stricturotomy technique as an alternative to surgery in the treatment of a
variety of strictures has been described, but its use for the treatment of severe anorectal
and anopouch strictures has not been studied.

Patients and methods Our Inflammatory Bowel Disease department’s
records were queried to identify patients with endoscopic non-traversable anorectal/anopouch
strictures. Consecutive patients that underwent insulated tip/needle-knife endoscopic
stricturotomy treatment were included. Primary outcome was immediate traversability of the
treated stricture by the endoscope. Other outcomes included need for reintervention, 30-day
post-procedure events, and follow-up period events.

Results All strictures were immediately successfully traversed
following endoscopic stricturotomy treatment. The mean time to endoscopic reintervention was
5.3 months, with the majority of these patients undergoing repeat stricturotomy. Over a mean
follow-up period of 12.8 months, two patients (8%) required surgical intervention (resection
with coloanal anastomosis with a colostomy and complete proctectomy) for refractory stricture
disease following initial endoscopic stricturotomy. Seven patients (29%) in our study have not
required any further reintervention throughout the study period. There were no 30-day
post-procedure adverse events and no adverse post-procedure events.

Conclusions Endoscopic stricturotomy is safe and effective in
treating severe anorectal/anopouch strictures.
Nation branding as a tool to attract foreign direct investments: a case study of Qatar
Authors: Mohib Aymen A. , Carroll Conor
Published: February 2024

Nation branding plays a critical role in attracting foreign businesses and, by extension, sustaining countries’ economic development and global competitiveness. Using Qatar as a lens for investigation, this research applied the single, embedded case study method. Purposive sampling with key decision makers in Qatar-based foreign companies representing diverse geographies and industries were used to understand the influence of nation branding on their investment location decision. The findings revealed five key thematic features of Qatar’s nation brand as an investment destination: socioeconomic prosperity, integrated global hub, activist engagement, collectivist culture, and high-end lifestyle. These brand characteristics were compared in relation to the Eclectic Paradigm’s locational advantage and the Anholt Ipsos NBI’s dimensions of exports, governance, culture/heritage, people, tourism, and investment/immigration. The dimensions exerted a strong effect on Qatar’s nation brand and varying levels of influence on FDI attraction. This research contributes to the nexus between nation branding and the FDI literature. Importantly, the results of the study provide useful guidance to government officials, policymakers, and public and private agencies involved in investment promotion. The findings will also prove relevant to foreign investors with regard to their international expansion and location choice.
Flapping wing rotorcraft benefit from the ceiling effect
Authors: Shapiro Maura
Published: February 2024

Like the rotorcraft that inspire their design, these small craft generate additional lift by flying close to a surface.