bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microbial colonizers of freshly sawn yellow-poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera L.) lumber in two seasons: Part 1. Fungi
Authors: Mikluscak M. R. , Dawson-Andoh B. E.
Published: September 2004

This is the first of a three-paper series that reports on the abundance, identity, and diversity of microorganisms isolated from dead-stacked yellow-poplar lumber in four time periods during the spring and summer of 2000. This paper focuses on filamentous fungi. Over the entire period, a total of 427 fungal isolates were obtained and 14 species representing 12 genera were identified. Nearly 15% of the fungal isolates were not identified. In total, fungal colonies accounted for 41% of the total abundance of microorganisms that were isolated from samples during this entire study.Penicillium implicatumandAspergillus versicolorwere the predominant fungal species identified and accounted for 29.7% and 14.5%, respectively, of the total fungal isolates.Penicilliumsp was the most commonly isolated genera. Other fungi isolated at lower frequencies includeGraphium penicilliodes,Cladosporium cladosporioides,Trichoderma harzium,Alternaria alternata,A. tenuissima,Epicoccum purpurscens,Hormoconis resinae,Fusarium monoilforme,Geotrichumsp,Chaetomium globosum, andExophiala jeanselmi.
Antifungal activity of constituents from the heartwood of Gmelina arborea: Part 1. Sensitive antifungal assay against Basidiomycetes
Authors: Kawamura F. , Ohara S. , Nishida A.
Published: September 2004

Antifungal activity of constituents from the heartwood of
the Malaysian Gmelina arborea against Trametes versicolor
and Fomitopsis palustris was investigated. A sensitive
bioassay system for antifungal activity against
basidiomycetes was developed which uses a medium in
which homogenized hyphae were dispersed. Ethyl acetate-
solubles from the heartwood showed the highest
activity against both fungi, although the activity against
F. palustris was quite weak. Spots exhibiting antifungal
activity against T. versicolor were specified by autobiography
of ethyl acetate-solubles, and five constituents
were isolated and identified as (+)-7′-O-ethyl arboreol,
(+)-paulownin, (+)-gmelinol, (+)-epieudesmin and (−)-β-sitosterol. The four lignans showed antifungal activity,
whereas β-sitosterol did not. From the comparison of
antifungal activity, it was concluded that the piperonyl
nucleus contributed to the activity of lignans. Of the four
lignans isolated, gmelinol appeared to be an important
antifungal constituent, since it was rich in the heartwood
of G. arborea. Furthermore, the synergism by coexistence
of these five compounds was confirmed.
Officer-Involved Killings of Unarmed Black People and Racial Disparities in Sleep Health
Authors: Venkataramani Atheendar S. , Bair Elizabeth F. , Bor Jacob , Jackson Chandra L. , Kawachi Ichiro , Lee Jooyoung , Papachristos Andrew , Tsai Alexander C.
Published: February 2024

Importance

Racial disparities in sleep health may mediate the broader health outcomes of structural racism.

Objective

To assess changes in sleep duration in the Black population after officer-involved killings of unarmed Black people, a cardinal manifestation of structural racism.

Design, Setting, and Participants

Two distinct difference-in-differences analyses examined the changes in sleep duration for the US non-Hispanic Black (hereafter, Black) population before vs after exposure to officer-involved killings of unarmed Black people, using data from adult respondents in the US Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance Survey (BRFSS; 2013, 2014, 2016, and 2018) and the American Time Use Survey (ATUS; 2013-2019) with data on officer-involved killings from the Mapping Police Violence database. Data analyses were conducted between September 24, 2021, and September 12, 2023.

Exposures

Occurrence of any police killing of an unarmed Black person in the state, county, or commuting zone of the survey respondent’s residence in each of the four 90-day periods prior to interview, or occurence of a highly public, nationally prominent police killing of an unarmed Black person anywhere in the US during the 90 days prior to interview.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Self-reported total sleep duration (hours), short sleep (<7 hours), and very short sleep (<6 hours).

Results

Data from 181 865 Black and 1 799 757 White respondents in the BRFSS and 9858 Black and 46 532 White respondents in the ATUS were analyzed. In the larger BRFSS, the majority of Black respondents were between the ages of 35 and 64 (99 014 [weighted 51.4%]), women (115 731 [weighted 54.1%]), and college educated (100 434 [weighted 52.3%]). Black respondents in the BRFSS reported short sleep duration at a rate of 45.9%, while White respondents reported it at a rate of 32.6%; for very short sleep, the corresponding values were 18.4% vs 10.4%, respectively. Statistically significant increases in the probability of short sleep and very short sleep were found among Black respondents when officers killed an unarmed Black person in their state of residence during the first two 90-day periods prior to interview. Magnitudes were larger in models using exposure to a nationally prominent police killing occurring anywhere in the US. Estimates were equivalent to 7% to 16% of the sample disparity between Black and White individuals in short sleep and 13% to 30% of the disparity in very short sleep.

Conclusions and Relevance

Sleep health among Black adults worsened after exposure to officer-involved killings of unarmed Black individuals. These empirical findings underscore the role of structural racism in shaping racial disparities in sleep health outcomes.
Perspectives on Admissions and Care for Residents With Opioid Use Disorder in Skilled Nursing Facilities
Authors: Moyo Patience , Nishar Shivani , Merrick Charlotte , Streltzov Nicholas , Asiedu Emmanuella , Roma Corinne , Vanjani Rahul , Soske Jon
Published: February 2024

Importance

Skilled nursing facilities (SNFs) are being referred more individuals with opioid use disorder (OUD), even when their medical needs are not directly associated with OUD.

Objective

To characterize factors that influence SNF admission for individuals with OUD and identify strategies for providing medications for OUD (MOUD) in SNFs.

Design, Setting, and Participants

In this semistructured qualitative study, interviews were conducted with SNF administrators from 27 SNFs in Rhode Island from November 5, 2021, to April 27, 2022. Data analysis occurred from August 22, 2022, to May 31, 2023.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Themes and subthemes on administrator perspectives on admissions and care for people with OUD in SNFs. Audio interviews were transcribed, coded, and analyzed using codebook thematic analysis and guided by community-engaged and participatory research principles.

Results

The study included 29 participants representing 27 SNFs in Rhode Island. Participant roles were administrators (17 participants [59%]), directors of nursing (6 participants [21%]), directors of admissions (5 participants [17%]), and unit managers (1 participant [3%]). Participants described active substance use, Medicaid insurance, housing instability, and younger age as potential barriers to SNF admission for individuals with OUD. The lack of formal guidelines for OUD management, staff shortages, facility liability, state regulations, and skills and training deficits among staff were cited among challenges of effectively meeting the needs of residents with OUD. Many participants reported inadequate institutional capacity as a source of negative outcomes for people with OUD yet expressed their concerns by characterizing individuals with OUD as potentially violent, nonadherent, or likely to bring undesirable elements into facilities. Participants also shared strategies they used to better serve residents with OUD, including providing transportation to support group meetings in the community, delivery in advance of resident arrival of predosed methadone, and telemedicine through the state’s hotline to prescribe buprenorphine.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this qualitative study of administrator perspectives about admissions and care for individuals with OUD in SNFs, gaps in institutional capacity overlapped with stigmatizing beliefs about OUD; such beliefs perpetuate discrimination of individuals with OUD. Adequate SNF funding and staffing combined with OUD-specific interventions (eg, antistigma training, community partnerships for MOUD and recovery support) could incentivize SNFs to serve individuals with OUD and facilitate OUD care consistent with practice guidelines.
Healthy Lifestyle and Cognition in Older Adults With Common Neuropathologies of Dementia
Authors: Dhana Klodian , Agarwal Puja , James Bryan D. , Leurgans Sue E. , Rajan Kumar B. , Aggarwal Neelum T. , Barnes Lisa L. , Bennett David A. , Schneider Julie A.
Published: February 2024

Importance

A healthy lifestyle is associated with better cognitive functioning in older adults, but whether this association is independent of the accumulation of dementia-related pathologies in the brain is uncertain.

Objective

To determine the role of postmortem brain pathology, including β-amyloid load, phosphorylated tau tangles, cerebrovascular pathology, and other brain pathologies, in the association between lifestyle and cognition proximate to death.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cohort study used data from the Rush Memory and Aging Project, a longitudinal clinical-pathologic study with autopsy data from 1997 to 2022 and up to 24 years of follow-up. Participants included 754 deceased individuals with data on lifestyle factors, cognitive testing proximate to death, and a complete neuropathologic evaluation at the time of these analyses. Data were analyzed from January 2023 to June 2023.

Exposures

A healthy lifestyle score was developed based on self-reported factors, including noncurrent smoking, at least 150 minutes of physical activity per week, limiting alcohol consumption, a Mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay (MIND) diet score higher than 7.5, and a late-life cognitive activity score higher than 3.2. The lifestyle score ranges from 0 to 5, with higher scores reflecting a healthier lifestyle.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The global cognitive score was derived from a battery of nineteen standardized tests. Brain pathology measures included β-amyloid load, phosphorylated tau tangles, global Alzheimer disease pathology, vascular brain pathologies, Lewy body, hippocampal sclerosis, and TAR DNA-binding protein 43.

Results

Of 586 included decedents, 415 (70.8%) were female, 171 (29.2%) were male, and the mean (SD) age at death was 90.9 (6.0) years. Higher lifestyle score was associated with better global cognitive functioning proximate to death. In the multivariable-adjusted model, a 1-point increase in lifestyle score was associated with 0.216 (SE = 0.036,P < .001) units higher in global cognitive scores. Neither the strength nor the significance of the association changed substantially when common dementia-related brain pathologies were included in the multivariable-adjusted models. The β estimate after controlling for the β-amyloid load was 0.191 (SE = 0.035;P < .001). A higher lifestyle score was associated with lower β-amyloid load in the brain (β = −0.120; SE = 0.041;P = .003), and 11.6% of the lifestyle-cognition association was estimated through β-amyloid load.

Conclusions and Relevance

This study found that in older adults, a healthy lifestyle may provide a cognitive reserve to maintain cognitive abilities independently of common neuropathologies of dementia.
The effect of individual differences in episodic future thought on credibility in occupation interviews
Authors: O'Connell Felicity , Stone Delyth , Vernham Zarah , Taylor Paul , Warmelink Lara
Published: February 2024

In this paper, we describe three experiments that explored whether individual differences in episodic future thought (EFT) ability affects credibility when participants told the truth and lied about their occupation. Credibility was measured by the number of perceptual details, statement length, level of detail and plausibility in verbal accounts and sketches (Experiment 1) and by other participants' veracity judgments of the verbal accounts (Experiment 2) and sketches (Experiment 3). In Experiment 1, participants with higher EFT ability generated more detailed verbal accounts and more plausible sketches than those with lower EFT ability. In Experiments 2 and 3, EFT ability did not predict veracity judgements of the verbal accounts or sketches derived from Experiment 1. The findings across all experiments suggest that EFT ability affects the ability to generate credible accounts however, EFT ability does not affect credibility judgements.
Q‐learning based adaptive Kalman filtering for partial model‐free dynamic systems
Authors: Tang Kun , Luan Xiaoli , Ding Feng , Liu Fei
Published: February 2024

In this article, we propose an adaptive Kalman filtering based on Q‐learning for partial model‐free dynamic systems. First, a cost function is defined to iteratively update the prior state value when the model parameters are unknown. Then, the observations in a period of time are utilized to improve the accuracy and updating speed of the prior state estimation by means of the multi‐innovation least squares. Next, considering that the weight matrix in the cost function will change due to external noise noise and model mismatch, the innovation‐based adaptive estimation algorithm is presented to adjust the weight matrix by using the covariance of the information sequence. Finally, the proposed algorithms are applied to estimate the water level of a quadruple water tank system.
Fabrication of MAX‐Phase Composites by Novel Combustion Synthesis and Spontaneous Metal Melt Infiltration: Structure and Tribological Behaviors
Authors: Umerov Emil , Amosov Aleksandr , Latukhin Evgeny , Kiran Kommineni Uday Venkat , Choi Hyunsuk , Saha Sudip , Roy Sougata
Published: February 2024

In this work, a new scheme is developed and experimentally tested for fabricating family of MAX–metal composites. This scheme combines the combustion synthesis (CS) process to obtain a porous MAX‐phase skeleton and process of metal melt infiltration spontaneously, which is then used to fabricate Ti3SiC2–TiC–Sn and Ti3SiC2–TiC–(Sn–Pb) composites. The resultant composite samples have an uneven density along the length, which steadily decrease from the point of contact of the sample with the molten tin to the opposite edge. Existence of Ti3SiC2, TiC, Sn, and (Sn and Pb) phases in the composite samples is confirmed using X‐ray diffraction and energy‐dispersive spectroscopy analyses. Comparative tribological characterizations are performed on fabricated Ti3SiC2–TiC–Sn and Ti3SiC2–TiC–(Sn–Pb) composite samples. Herein, these results are compared against standalone Sn and Sn–Pb samples as baseline and reveal major differences in friction and wear mechanisms due to addition of select MAX phases via novel CS process. As a whole, in the present study, a novel synthesis process is established to fabricate MAX‐phase composites and its enhanced tribological behavior and wear mechanisms which can have plethora of applications ranging from aerospace, automotive to biomedical sectors, are validated.
Ultrahigh Piezoelectric Response Obtained by Artificially Generating a Large Internal Bias Field in BiFeO3–BaTiO3 Lead‐Free Ceramics
Authors: Lin Jiamin , Lv Fu , Hong Zijian , Liu Bing , Wu Yongjun , Huang Yuhui
Published: February 2024

Piezoelectric actuators are vital devices that convert electrical signals into mechanical strain, offering rapid and precise responses. Lead‐based piezoceramics have traditionally been the preferred choice for commercial piezoelectric actuators, while the low Curie temperature and the rising environmental concerns hinder their applications at high temperatures. In this study, a novel strategy is proposed to achieve high piezoelectric responses in lead‐free 0.67Bi1.05FeO3–0.33BaTiO3 (67BF‐33BT) ceramics with high Curie temperature by artificially generating a large internal bias field through repeat poling and aging treatments. A comprehensive exploration of how this internal bias field responds to applied electric fields and temperature variations has been conducted. The results suggest that the internal bias field originates from two aspects, one arises from the free charges that compensate for the depolarization field, while the other is attributed to the highly oriented defect dipoles. As a result of this internal bias field, the ceramics exhibit asymmetric strain–electric field (S–E) behaviors, resulting in a high strain (ε = 0.21%) and an extremely high piezoelectric coefficient (d33* = 1033.70 pm V−1) when subjected to low electric field (20 kV cm−1), along with good temperature stability from room temperature (RT) to 100 °C.
Optimizing d‐p Orbital Hybridization with Abundant Unfilled Antibonding Orbital in Multi‐Metal Layered Double Hydroxide: Motivating Efficient Oxygen Evolving
Authors: Zeng Kai , Chao Ming , Tian Meng , Jiang Shuhao , Zhaoshi Yijia , Feng Jiawen , Sun Zhihui , Li Yibing
Published: February 2024

Manipulating the electronic structure and coordination configuration of heterogeneous electrocatalyst is an advantageous strategy to motivate the intrinsic activity but remains challenging. Herein, guided by the theoretical mechanism of the d‐band center and valence‐bond theory, the high‐valence metal‐modulated nickel‐vanadium layered double hydroxides (M‐NiV LDH, M = Zr, and Mo) with interfacial oxygen bridge bonding structure are rationally designed and fabricated, affording a 3D vertically staggered and porous nanosheets array network. Benefitting from the abundant unfilled antibonding orbitals induced by the optimized Zr d‐orbital and O p‐orbital hybridization, the introduction of Zr site is beneficial to accelerate charge transfer kinetics and optimize the deprotonation of OH* as well as lower the O* → OOH* free energy. As a result, the as‐prepared Zr‐NiV LDH exhibits a promising oxygen evolution reaction performance with low overpotential and favorable long‐term stability. This work provides valuable insights into the design of electrocatalysts for electronic regulation and intrinsic activity improvement.
Reversible Enhancement of Electronic Conduction Caused by Phase Transformation and Interfacial Segregation in an Entropy‐Stabilized Oxide
Authors: Vahidi Hasti , Dupuy Alexander D. , Lam Benjamin X. , Cortez Justin , Garg Pulkit , Rupert Timothy J. , Schoenung Julie M. , Bowman William J.
Published: February 2024

Entropy‐stabilized oxide (ESO) research has primarily focused on discovering unprecedented structures, chemistries, and properties in the single‐phase state. However, few studies discuss the impacts of entropy stabilization and secondary phases on functionality and in particular, electrical conductivity. To address this gap, electrical transport mechanisms in the canonical ESO rocksalt (Co,Cu,Mg,Ni,Zn)O are assessed as a function of secondary phase content. When single‐phase, the oxide conducts electrons via Cu+/Cu2+ small polarons. After 2 h of heat treatment, Cu‐rich tenorite secondary phases form at some grain boundaries (GBs), enhancing grain interior electronic conductivity by tuning defect chemistry toward higher Cu+ carrier concentrations. 24 h of heat treatment yields Cu‐rich tenorite at all GBs, followed by the formation of anisotropic Cu‐rich tenorite and equiaxed Co‐rich spinel secondary phases in grains, further enhancing grain interior electronic conductivity but slowing electronic transport across the tenorite‐rich GBs. Across all samples, the total electrical conductivity increases (and decreases reversibly) by four orders of magnitude with heat‐treatment‐induced phase transformation by tuning the grains’ defect chemistry toward higher carrier concentration and lower migration activation energy. This work demonstrates the potential to selectively grow secondary phases in ESO grains and at GBs, thereby tuning the electrical properties using microstructure design, nanoscale engineering, and heat treatment, paving the way to develop many novel materials.
Covalent Phenanthroline‐Porphyrin Polymer for Aminocarbonylation through Electro/Thermocatalytic Tandem Processes: Extending Chemical Valorization of CO2
Authors: Li Qing , Ma Dong‐Dong , Zhou Shenghua , Wei Wen‐Bo , Han Shu‐Guo , Zhu Qi‐Long
Published: February 2024

The covalent organic frameworks/polymers configurated with metal‐N4 conjugated structures offer an exceptional platform for efficient electrochemical CO2 reduction reaction (eCO2RR). However, understanding the impact of the structure‐mediated local microenvironment and integrating CO2 electroreduction with follow‐up utilization toward extending chemical valorization of CO2 are still far from sufficient. Herein, a set of covalent phenanthroline‐porphyrin polymers are designed to decode the microenvironment modulation originating from built‐in structures, and the optimized one delivered an extraordinary performance for eCO2RR with ≈100% Faradaic efficiency of CO under stabilized CO2‐electrolysis of 70 h. The experimental and theoretical analyses suggest that the regulation of the Co‐N4 electronic structures and microenvironment convoys the stabilized formation of key reaction intermediate *COOH. Furthermore, through CO‐mediated electro/thermocatalytic tandem processes, the aminocarbonylation of aryl iodides and amines with high yields has been convincingly implemented over the coordinated Pd sites, which is remarkably helpful to propel extending chemical valorization of CO2.
An Artificial Olfactory Chemical‐Resistant Synapse for Training‐Free Gas Recognition
Authors: Hu Fangzhen , Cao Chenkai , Han Sancan , Wang Ding , Chen Xi
Published: February 2024

Transferring the concept of chemical‐driven responses into artificial intelligence technology holds the key to mimicking olfactory for neuromorphic computing of chemical recognition. Currently, artificial olfactory systems are designed based on chemical sensor arrays. Time‐dependent responses of the sensor arrays are processed by artificial neural networks for recognition. However, the sensors generate instantly volatile responses, and algorithms for the processing of the time‐dependent responses have not been involved. The recognition accuracy and speed are severely impeded. A sensor array can only achieve an accuracy of 90% after at least 5 training epochs. Herein an artificial olfactory chemical‐resistant synapse consisting of 3D hierarchical WO3@WO3 nanofibers are demonstrated. The nanofibers exhibit persistent resistance responses through chemical exposures due to the strong chemisorption of water molecules. Typical synaptic behaviors including paired‐pulse facilitation, long‐term −1 short‐term memory, and learning experience have been achieved. Next, a recurrent neural network that is committed to processing the time‐dependent data is used to identify gas‐phase chemicals of 3‐hydroxy‐2‐butanone, triethylamine, and trimethylamine. Training‐free gas recognition has been realized by a WO3@WO3 nanofiber synapse only, in which the accuracy is above 90% at the first epoch. The results have great potential to satisfy stringent performance requirements on artificial perception systems.
Characterization of the Nucleus Pulposus Progenitor Cells via Spatial Transcriptomics
Authors: Chen Yu , Zhang Long , Shi Xueqing , Han Jie , Chen Jingyu , Zhang Xinya , Xie Danlin , Li Zan , Niu Xing , Chen Lijie , Yang Chaoyong , Sun Xiujie , Zhou Taifeng , Su Peiqiang , Li Na , Greenblatt Matthew B. , Ke Rongqin , Huang Jianming , Chen Zhe‐Sheng , Xu Ren
Published: February 2024

Loss of refreshment in nucleus pulposus (NP) cellularity leads to intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration. Nevertheless, the cellular sequence of NP cell differentiation remains unclear, although an increasing body of literature has identified markers of NP progenitor cells (NPPCs). Notably, due to their fragility, the physical enrichment of NP‐derived cells has limited conventional transcriptomic approaches in multiple studies. To overcome this limitation, a spatially resolved transcriptional atlas of the mouse IVD is generated via the 10x Genomics Visium platform dividing NP spots into two clusters. Based on this, most reported NPPC‐markers, including Cathepsin K (Ctsk), are rare and predominantly located within the NP‐outer subset. Cell lineage tracing further evidence that a small number of Ctsk‐expressing cells generate the entire adult NP tissue. In contrast, Tie2, which has long suggested labeling NPPCs, is actually neither expressed in NP subsets nor labels NPPCs and their descendants in mouse models; consistent with this, an in situ sequencing (ISS) analysis validated the absence of Tie2 in NP tissue. Similarly, no Tie2‐cre‐mediated labeling of NPPCs is observed in an IVD degenerative mouse model. Altogether, in this study, the first spatial transcriptomic map of the IVD is established, thereby providing a public resource for bone biology.
Selective Suppression of Integrin‐Ligand Binding by Single Molecular Tension Probes Mediates Directional Cell Migration
Authors: Han Seong‐Beom , Lee Geonhui , Kim Daesan , Kim Jeong‐Ki , Kim In‐San , Kim Hae‐Won , Kim Dong‐Hwee
Published: February 2024

Cell migration interacting with continuously changing microenvironment, is one of the most essential cellular functions, participating in embryonic development, wound repair, immune response, and cancer metastasis. The migration process is finely tuned by integrin‐mediated binding to ligand molecules. Although numerous biochemical pathways orchestrating cell adhesion and motility are identified, how subcellular forces between the cell and extracellular matrix regulate intracellular signaling for cell migration remains unclear. Here, it is showed that a molecular binding force across integrin subunits determines directional migration by regulating tension‐dependent focal contact formation and focal adhesion kinase phosphorylation. Molecular binding strength between integrin αvβ3 and fibronectin is precisely manipulated by developing molecular tension probes that control the mechanical tolerance applied to cell‐substrate interfaces. This data reveals that integrin‐mediated molecular binding force reduction suppresses cell spreading and focal adhesion formation, attenuating the focal adhesion kinase (FAK) phosphorylation that regulates the persistence of cell migration. These results further demonstrate that manipulating subcellular binding forces at the molecular level can recapitulate differential cell migration in response to changes of substrate rigidity that determines the physical condition of extracellular microenvironment. Novel insights is provided into the subcellular mechanics behind global mechanical adaptation of the cell to surrounding tissue environments featuring distinct biophysical signatures.
Adjusting of the chemical coordination environment of the active constituent to enhance wide‐temperature NH3‐SCR activity of Ce, Cu, and La modified TNU‐9
Authors: Zhao Jiao , Li Zhifang , Yang Jian , Cui Jinxing , Yang Changlong , Yang Ruichao , Zhang Zhen , Ma Yuanyuan
Published: February 2024

A series of Ce, Cu, and La modified TNU‐9 zeolite catalysts were synthesized by altering ion exchange sequence and calcinations sequence, and the relationship between the chemical coordination environment of the active ingredients and the catalytic activity in the selective catalytic reduction of NOx using NH3 as reductant (NH3‐SCR) was revealed. The results showed that within the temperature window (150–450°C), the catalyst (Cs‐CL/T9) prepared by exchange copper ion, followed by roasting, then followed by simultaneous exchange of cerium and lanthanum ion had excellent wide‐temperature NH3‐SCR activity. Because after roasting, Cu2+ in the framework of TNU‐9 could migrate under the high temperature to result in the stable structure, thereby reducing steric hindrance ions and exchanging more cerium and lanthanum ions. The increase of cerium ion content can produce more oxygen vacancies, so that NO is oxidized to NO2. Furthermore, electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) results exhibits that there are Cu2+ active site in Cs‐CL/T9, leading to the excellent NH3‐SCR performance. In addition, altering ion exchange sequence and calcinations sequence increase the number of acidic sites and the redox ability etc.
On the reduced conditions for positive consensus of second‐order multi‐agent systems
Authors: Guo Baoyin , Zhang Liangyin , Chen Michael Z. Q. , Wang Haoyu , Ye Yanyan
Published: February 2024

This paper investigates the reduced conditions for positivity‐preserving consensus of positive multi‐agent systems with second‐order dynamics. The solvability of the positive consensus problem (PCP) is discussed under both undirected and directed topologies, which is related to the positive stability of each agent's dynamics. Necessary and sufficient conditions are presented for continuous‐time and discrete‐time cases to solve PCP over undirected graphs. When the graph is directed, sufficient conditions for the problem solvability and a Schur stability testing method for second‐order complex matrices are provided, where the traditional Routh‐Hurwitz criteria (Jury criteria) is not suitable. Some numerical examples are presented to illustrate the theoretical results.
On the robustness of the brand positivity effect: Is impulsivity a moderator of overly favorable judgments and choices of focal options?
Authors: Posavac Steven S. , Gaffney Donald R. , Kardes Frank R.
Published: February 2024

Five experiments were conducted to explore trait impulsivity as a possible contributor to the magnitude of the Brand Positivity Effect, and to provide a more sophisticated empirical account of the role of selective processing in driving it than reported in prior research. Although the experiments considered very different choice categories including a product, a service, an experience, and a public good, data were convergent in several ways: (a) the Brand Positivity Effect in judgment, choice intention, and non‐hypothetical choice was replicated, (b) non‐intrusive process‐tracing methodology established that selective processing is related to the magnitude of the Brand Positivity Effect, and (c) the Brand Positivity Effect was demonstrated to be a robust phenomenon that is observed regardless of individuals' trait impulsivity.
Efficacy of robot‐assisted minimally invasive stereotactic puncture therapy for supratentorial hypertensive intracerebral hemorrhage
Authors: Han Weiyi , Xie Aotan , Chen Taoli , Sun Xiao , Liu Xianzhi
Published: February 2024

Objective

To evaluate the efficacy of robot‐assisted minimally invasive stereotactic puncture therapy (MISPT) for supratentorial hypertensive intracerebral hemorrhage (HICH).

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed 133 patients with supratentorial HICH treated using robot‐assisted MISPT (RM group; n = 77) or conventional craniotomy (CC group; n = 56). In our primary analysis, we evaluated the hematoma volume at discharge. In our secondary analyses, we evaluated the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score at discharge; the operation time, intraparenchymal drainage catheter removal time, the length of hospital stay, and complications during hospitalization; the early and 6‐month postoperative mortality; and functional scores 6‐month postoperatively.

Results

There were no statistical differences in the preoperative characteristics between the groups, such as age distribution (52.8 ± 9.6 vs. 55.3 ± 7.8 years), hematoma volume (38.4 ± 10.4 vs. 41.1 ± 11.0 mL), and GCS score (10.7 ± 2.2 vs. 9.8 ± 2.8). Hematoma volume at discharge did not significantly differ between the groups (2.6 ± 2.1 mL vs. 2.4 ± 2.1 mL). The GCS score at discharge was significantly higher in the RM group (13.5 ± 2.1 vs. 11.6 ± 3.1; p < .001). Operation time (40.3 ± 7.0 min vs. 143.1 ± 61.3 min;p < .001), intraparenchymal drainage catheter removal time (1.2 ± 0.4 vs. 2.1 ± 0.7 days; p < .001), and length of hospital stay (9.3 ± 2.7 vs. 11.1 ± 4.8 days; p = .013) were significantly shorter in the RM group. The incidence rates of pneumonia, gastrointestinal bleeding, and intracranial infection were significantly lower in the RM group. Although the incidence of rebleeding was lower in the RM group (1.3% vs. 5.4%), the difference was not significant. Six months after surgery, the Barthel Index, Glasgow Outcome Scale, and Karnofsky performance status scores were significantly higher, whereas the modified Rankin scale score was significantly lower in the RM group (p = .002, p = .007, p = .001, and p = .018, respectively). Two RM group patients (3.1%) and six CC group patients (12.2%) died between hospital discharge and 6 months after surgery (p = .127).

Conclusion

The main advantages of robot‐assisted MISPT for supratentorial HICH were shown in minimally invasive, precision, and low incidences of complications. In addition, it may improve the prognosis significantly. Thus, it has great potential to be popularized and clinically applied in the future.
Enhancing the sensitivity of nanopipette biosensors for protein analysis
Authors: Demirtas Mustafa
Published: February 2024

Background

This paper compares experimental findings and simulation outcomes of single and multiple protein models moving through a nanopipette biosensor. It provides insights into the factors influencing the process and explores their relevance to proteomics.

Methods

Nanopipette biosensors were produced by pulling borosilicate glass tubes and treating them with an electron beam. A scanning electron microscope was used to characterize the nanopipettes. The study measured and modeled ionic currents for the elastase‐specific inhibitor protein. Simulation models were developed using the finite element method and Poisson–Boltzmann formalism, considering different protein configurations and translocation scenarios.

Results

The results showed that the pore current of a nanopipette decreases as the protein approaches the nanopipette. The minimum pore current occurs at the widest part of the protein, and the current increases as the protein progresses through the nanopipette. For multiple protein translocations, the pore current decreases between the widest parts of the first and second proteins, and the lowest current is observed at the broadest part of the second protein. After the third protein, the pore current remains constant. It is also found that the fractional blockade difference, translocation speed, fluctuation in pore current, and dwell time are all affected by the number of proteins translocating through the nanopipette. The fractional blockade difference, the decrease in pore current caused by the protein, increases with the number of proteins while the translocation speed decreases. The fluctuation in pore current and dwell time is also longer for three‐protein translocations than for single‐protein translocations.

Conclusion

This study offers valuable insights into biomolecule transport through nanopipettes, enhances our understanding of protein dynamics in restricted environments, and significantly contributes to single‐protein sequencing studies, drug screening, and proteomics.
Prognostic implications of HER2NEU‐low in metastatic breast cancer
Authors: Neubauer Zachary , Hasan Shaakir , Press Robert H. , Chhabra Arpit M. , Fox Jana , Bakst Richard , Simone Charles B. , Choi J. Isabelle
Published: February 2024

Introduction

We explored characteristics and clinical outcomes of HER2‐negative and HER2‐low metastatic breast cancers using real‐world data.

Methods

We queried the National Cancer Database to identify MBC patients that were HER2‐low or HER2‐negative per immunohistochemical staining. A binomial regression analysis identified demographic and clinical correlates of each subtype. A Cox multivariable regression analysis (MVA) and propensity‐match analysis were performed to identify correlates of survival.

Results

Excluding missing data, 24,636 MBC patients diagnosed between 2008 and 2015 were identified; 27.9% were HER2‐negative and 72.1% were HER2‐low. There were no relevant demographic differences between the groups. HER2‐low tumors were half as likely to have concomitant hormone receptor‐positive status (p < 0.01). The 3‐year survival rate among hormone receptor‐negative patients was 33.8% for HER2‐low and 32.2% for HER2‐negative (p < 0.05), and 60.9% and 55.6% in HER2‐low and HER2‐negative cases among hormone receptor‐positive patients (p < 0.05), respectively. HER2‐low cases were associated with better survival on MVA (HR =0.95, 95% CI 0.91–0.99) and remained superior with propensity‐matching (HR = 0.92, 95% CI 0.89–0.96). In a subset analysis isolated to hormone receptor‐positive cases, HER2‐low remained correlated with improved survival (HR = 0.93, 95% CI 0.89–0.98) with propensity‐matched MVA. Correlates of worse survival include older age as a continuous variable (HR = 1.02, 95% CI 1.02–1.02) and Black race (HR = 1.26, 95% CI 1.20–1.32) [all p < 0.01].

Conclusions

In the largest such analysis performed to date, our study demonstrates a small but statistically significant association with improved survival for HER2‐low tumors compared to HER2‐negative tumors in MBC.
Endogenous Production and Vibrational Analysis of Heavy‐Isotope‐Labeled Peptides from Cyanobacteria
Authors: Ricca John G. , Mayali Xavier , Qu Jing , Weber Peter K. , Poirier Gerald , Dufresne Craig P. , Louda J. William , Terentis Andrew C.
Published: February 2024

Stable isotope labeling is an extremely useful tool for characterizing the structure, tracing the metabolism, and imaging the distribution of natural products in living organisms using mass‐sensitive measurement techniques. In this study, a cyanobacterium was cultured in 15N/13C‐enriched media to endogenously produce labeled, bioactive oligopeptides. The extent of heavy isotope incorporation in these peptides was determined with LC–MS, while the overall extent of heavy isotope incorporation in whole cells was studied with nanoSIMS and AFM‐IR. Up to 98 % heavy isotope incorporation was observed in labeled cells. Three of the most abundant peptides, microcystin‐LR (MCLR), cyanopeptolin‐A (CYPA), and aerucyclamide‐A (ACAA), were isolated and further studied with Raman and FTIR spectroscopies and DFT calculations. This revealed several IR and Raman active vibrations associated with functional groups not common in ribosomal peptides, like diene, ester, thiazole, thiazoline, and oxazoline groups, which could be suitable for future vibrational imaging studies. More broadly, this study outlines a simple and relatively inexpensive method for producing heavy‐labeled natural products. Manipulating the bacterial culture conditions by the addition of specific types and amounts of heavy‐labeled nutrients provides an efficient means of producing heavy‐labeled natural products for mass‐sensitive imaging studies.
The use of a large language model to create plain language summaries of evidence reviews in healthcare: A feasibility study
Authors: Ovelman Colleen , Kugley Shannon , Gartlehner Gerald , Viswanathan Meera
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Plain language summaries (PLSs) make complex healthcare evidence accessible to patients and the public. Large language models (LLMs) may assist in generating accurate, readable PLSs. This study explored using the LLM Claude 2 to create PLSs of evidence reviews from the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) Effective Health Care Program.

Methods

We selected 10 evidence reviews published from 2021 to 2023, representing a range of methods and topics. We iteratively developed a prompt to guide Claude 2 in creating PLSs which included specifications for plain language, reading level, length, organizational structure, active voice, and inclusive language. PLSs were assessed for adherence to prompt specifications, comprehensiveness, accuracy, readability, and cultural sensitivity.

Results

All PLSs met the word count. We judged one PLS as fully comprehensive; seven mostly comprehensive. We judged two PLSs as fully capturing the PICO elements; five with minor PICO errors. We judged three PLSs as accurately reporting the results; and four with minor result errors. We judged three PLSs as having major result errors for incorrectly reporting total participants. Five PLSs met the target 6th to 8th grade reading level. Passive voice use averaged 16%. All PLSs used inclusive language.

Conclusions

LLMs show promise for assisting in PLS creation but likely require human input to ensure accuracy, comprehensiveness, and the appropriate nuances of interpretation. Iterative prompt refinement may improve results and address the needs of specific reviews and audiences. As text‐only summaries, the AI‐generated PLSs could not meet all consumer communication criteria, such as textual design and visual representations. Further testing should include consumer reviewers and explore how to best leverage LLM support in drafting PLS text for complex evidence reviews.
Structural Design of 3D Current Collectors for Lithium Metal Anodes: A Review
Authors: Yang Guo‐Duo , Liu Ye , Ji Xin , Zhou Su‐Min , Wang Zhuo , Sun Hai‐Zhu
Published: February 2024

Due to the ultrahigh theoretical specific capacity (3860 mAh g−1) and low redox potential (−3.04 V vs. standard hydrogen electrode), Lithium (Li) metal anode (LMA) received increasing attentions. However, notorious dendrite and volume expansion during the cycling process seriously hinder the development of high energy density Li metal batteries. Constructing three‐dimensional (3D) current collectors for Li can fundamentally solve the intrinsic drawback of hostless for Li. Therefore, this review systematically introduces the design and synthesis engineering and the current development status of different 3D collectors in recent years (the current collectors are divided into two major parts: metal‐based current collectors and carbon‐based current collectors). In the end, some perspectives of the future promotion for LMA application are also presented.
La‐doped Porous Fe2O3 Nanorods as Advanced Anodes for Lithium/Sodium Ion Batteries and Sulfur Host for Li‐Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Wang Feng , Li Aihua , Huang Wei , Qiu Na , Lin Qiaoli
Published: February 2024

Transition metal oxides are investigated as electrochemically active anodes for several years due to the merits of high specific capacity, low cost, abundant resources and controllable synthesis. But the poor cycle performances have hindered their further wide application. Herein, porous La‐doped FeOOH nanorods have been synthesized through a facile hydrothermal method, which could be transformed into porous La‐doped Fe2O3 (Fe2O3‐La) via a simple heating process. Compared with the undoped Fe2O3, the Fe2O3‐La showed larger surface area, higher specific capacities and more stable cycle performances for lithium/sodium ion batteries. In addition, as an advanced sulfur host for lithium‐sulfur batteries, the Fe2O3‐La also displayed much more excellent cycle and rate performances than the undoped Fe2O3. The superior electrochemical performances of the Fe2O3‐La may could be attributed to the doping of La, which could induce more porous morphology and offer more reactive sites. The positive effects of La‐doping for electrochemical performances of porous Fe2O3 nanorods provide novel insights for further applications of rare earth metal doping.
An improved state‐space average model of the ultra‐high voltage inverter based on wavelet decomposition and reconstruction
Authors: Ding Hao , Xie Fan , Zhang Bo , Qiu Dongyuan , Chen Yanfeng , Xiao Wenxun
Published: February 2024

Ultra‐high voltage inverters are widely used as grid‐connected devices in new energy grids, and the state‐space average model is the most practical modeling method for the inverter. However, the accuracy of this modeling method is significantly reduced because it ignores the high‐frequency switching process, which contains overshoot voltage and other factors that affect system stability. Moreover, the amplitude of the overshoot voltage in the ultra‐high voltage inverter will be huge, which may lead to the damage to switching devices, circuit overheating, and even the collapse of the system. Therefore, the wavelet decomposition and reconstruction methods are used in this paper to extract the transient characteristics of the inverter and integrate them into the state‐space average model. Compared with the traditional state‐space average model, the improved model method can obtain a more accurate overshoot voltage peak value with the same simulation step size. Then, it can provide a more precise reference for the withstand voltage in the device selection of a high voltage level system. The single‐phase full‐bridge inverter is taken as an example to illustrate the construction process based on the wavelet decomposition and reconstruction method. Finally, the simulation waveform is verified to be in good agreement with the experiment.
Effects of elevated ground temperatures on properties of cement grouts for deep rock grouting
Authors: Xu Zhipeng , Sun Jianping , Li Runguo , He Lei , Liu Changwu
Published: February 2024

Appropriate determination of the mix ratios of cement grouts is of vital importance to the quality of rock grouting and the risk reduction of groundwater inflow. The behavior of grout, often highly temperature dependent, is likely to be affected by the elevated ground temperature in deep rock masses. This paper aims to experimentally gain insights into the effects of elevated ground temperatures on the properties of cement grout in fresh and hardened states in deep rock grouting. The results revealed that a temperature of 35°C is crucial for changes in the properties of thick cement grout with a water–cement ratio of less than 0.8. When the temperature is up to 35°C, there can be significant improvements in rheological parameters, acceleration of grout setting, and increase in the rheological time dependence of thick cement grout; however, there may also be a slight impact on the initial grout flowability and the nature of shear thinning. The high temperature may still improve the stability of fresh cement grout and also improve the porosity and creep deformation of hardened cement grout considerably. The proposed constitutive model that couples the Burgers model with a fractional derivative‐based Abel dashpot in the series can be used to characterize the creep behavior of hardened cement grout appropriately. The paper provides a valuable reference for optimization of mixture design of cement grouts, thus enhancing deep rock grouting quality and improving safety.
Voltammetric determination of genotoxic 4‐nitroindane at a mercury meniscus modified silver solid amalgam electrode
Authors: Němcová Vendula , Barek Jiří , Vyskočil Vlastimil
Published: February 2024

A silver solid amalgam electrode modified with mercury meniscus (m‐AgSAE) was used as a non‐toxic replacement of mercury electrodes in the voltammetric determination of genotoxic environmental pollutant 4‐nitroindane (4‐NI). The m‐AgSAE was used to characterize of the overall electrode process during the 4‐NI conversion using cyclic voltammetry (CV), and it was shown that the electrochemical reduction of 4‐NI is an irreversible process controlled by both diffusion and adsorption. Techniques of direct current voltammetry (DCV) and differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) at the m‐AgSAE were optimized for the development of a method for the sensitive determination of 4‐NI. The application of the more convenient DPV method was proven on authentic drinking and river water samples. Limits of quantification (LQs) obtained under the following optimal conditions were 0.1 μmol L−1 for DCV at the m‐AgSAE (Britton‐Robinson (BR) buffer pH 5.0–methanol (1 : 1); regeneration potentials E1,reg=−200 mV, E2,reg=−1100 mV) and 0.1 μmol L−1 for DPV at the m‐AgSAE (BR buffer pH 9.0–methanol (1 : 1); regeneration potentials E1,reg=−300 mV, E2,reg=−1300 mV). An attempt to decrease the LQ of the 4‐NI determination by differential pulse adsorptive stripping voltammetry at the m‐AgSAE was not successful. The LQs for DPV at the m‐AgSAE in authentic samples of drinking and river water were 1.0 μmol L−1 and 2.0 μmol L−1 (BR buffer pH 9.0–drinking or river water (1 : 9); regeneration potentials E1,reg=−300 mV, E2,reg=−1300 mV), respectively.