bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biogeographic patterns of belemnite body size responses to episodes of environmental crisis
Authors: Rita Patrícia , García-Ramos José C. , Neige Pascal , Piñuela Laura , Weis Robert , Duarte Luís V. , Übelacker Christof , De Baets Kenneth
Published: September 2019

Body size changes have been investigated through episodes of environmental crisis among several groups of organisms but the relative contribution of within-lineage size changes, selective extinction and origination of taxa on these patterns is still being debated. Rapid warming, anoxia, and perturbations of the carbon cycle linked with volcanic activity, as well as their impact on marine diversity are well documented for the Pliensbachian-Toarcian (Pli-Toa) boundary and for the Toarcian Oceanic Anoxic Event (T-OAE). Belemnites were a very abundant and successful cephalopod group in the Mesozoic oceans playing a paramount role in the oceanic trophic webs. Belemnites have mainly been studied from a geochemical perspective during this interval. Newly collected data from three northern and western Iberian sections (Peniche, Rodiles and Lastres) allowed an analysis of the belemnite body size dynamics across the Pli-Toa boundary and the T-OAE and a comparison with other European basins. In Peniche (Lusitanian Basin, Portugal), a significant reduction in belemnite body size was recognized across the Pli-Toa boundary at the assemblage level (i.e. community scale of organization). From the analysis of the different taxa recorded, it seems that adult specimens of Pseudohastites longiformis are driving the body size pattern observed (13% rostrum size decrease). The uppermost Polymorphum-Levisoni zones interval is characterized by a dramatic decrease on both belemnite abundance and diversity. Only 4 specimens of the genus Acrocoelites were found, increasing the body size at the assemblage level. In the Asturian Basin (N Spain), on the other hand, a body size increase at the assemblage level is recognized across the Pli-Toa boundary caused by a within-lineage effect mainly related to adult specimens of Passaloteuthis and Pseudohastites genera. During the onset of the T-OAE, belemnite body size increases due to the appearance of Acrocoelites genus. To summarize, the increase in rostrum size at the assemblage level across the T-OAE is associated with the radiation of a large-sized taxon (Acrocoelites genus) and the extinction of various other species. On the other hand, across the Pli-Toa boundary, the belemnite body size changes are dominated by within-lineage mechanisms. This suggests that species might have been able to cope within the early warming phase (Pli-Ta boundary), but were more affected by the subsequent warming and anoxia during the T-OAE. Our preliminary results indicate that this pattern might also be recognized in other western European sections, such as Cleveland Basin, western Paris Basin (Normandy) and Southern Germany sections. The biotic and abiotic drivers of belemnite body size changes still need to be comprehensively analyzed.
Integrated modeling of phylogenies, species traits, and environmental gradients to better predict biogeographic distributions
Authors: Humphreys John M , Elsner James B , Jagger Thomas H , Steppan Scott J
Published: September 2019

There is an acknowledged need to combine species distribution and macro-ecological models with phylogenetic information, particularly when biogeographic research incorporates multiple species, explores phenotypic traits, or is spatially dynamic. Our aim is to present a new approach to multi-species joint modeling that applies spatially explicit phylogenetic regression to simultaneously predict species occurrence probability and the geographic distribution of interspecific continuous morphological traits. We developed a multi-tiered Bayesian geostatistical model that incorporates a species phylogeny, morphometric traits, and environmental variables to jointly estimate traits and geographic distributions for six species of South American leaf-eared mice (genus: Phyllotis). Covariates are included with the model to control for genetic relatedness, specimen age, specimen sex, and repeated measures errors. To help gauge model performance, we compared our approach to predictions made using several other species distribution modeling applications. Our integrated modeling framework demonstrated improved accuracy over alternative species distribution modeling techniques as judged by model sensitivity, specificity, and the true skill statistic. The inclusion of trait-based covariates and model terms to account for genetic relatedness, repeated measures, and spatial error were determined important as judged by credible intervals and parsimony metrics. Species distribution models and trait-based approaches that do not account for spatial dependencies, phylogenetic relationships, or repeated measures sampling errors may produce parameter estimates with smaller uncertainty than is warranted and produce predictions with significant error. Our study offers tools to address spatially and phylogenetically structured species data and presents an approach to integrating biological comparative methods in biogeographic research.
Contribution to the hydrogeology of Six Hills sandstone aquifer in East El-Oweinat area, south Western desert, Egypt
Authors: Ghoubachi Saad Younes
Published: September 2019

El-Oweinat area is located in southwestern Egypt and is considered to be one of the new land reclamation projects in the Western Desert. The Nubian Sandstone aquifer has high potentiality and good groundwater quality. The results of geologic and hydrogeologic studies reveal that the Six Hills sandstone aquifer represents the sole groundwater resource used for all purposes (agriculture, drinking, domestic, livestock and poultry) in East El-Oweinat area. The Six Hills sandstone aquifer overlies directly the Precambrian basement rocks. The concerned aquifer exists under unconfined conditions as it is exposed on the surface. The hydrogeological cross sections show that the fully saturated thickness of the Six Hills sandstone aquifer ranges between 150.2 m and 651 m and increases towards the west. The groundwater generally flows towards the northeast direction with an average hydraulic gradient of 0.6 ‰. The calculated groundwater volume of the Six Hills sandstone aquifer in East El-Oweinat area (4,340 km2) reaches 350 bcm of fresh water. The comparison of the depth to water in the same monitoring wells during 14 years (2003 and 2016) reveals that the head decline rate in groundwater depths were ranging between 5 cm/year and 80 cm/year. The pumping rate increased from 600,000 m3/day in year 2003 to 3,600,000 m3/day in 2016. The average transmissivity attains 2,060 m2/day reflecting the high potential of the Six Hills sandstone aquifer in East El-Oweinat area. The groundwater flow model (MODFLOW) has been used to investigate the impact of groundwater withdrawal on groundwater levels for sustainable groundwater management. Four scenarios were applied to predict the probable head changes in the Six Hills sandstone aquifer and their impact on the availability of groundwater. The fourth scenario is recommended in order to sustain the groundwater resources in the study area and keep the drawdown rates in the range of 0.66 m/year through reducing the present discharging rates (10,000 m3/day/well) by about 40%.
A methodology for the preliminary characterisation of the river boundary condition in finite difference groundwater flow numerical models
Authors: Oliveira Manuel M. , Martins Tiago N.
Published: September 2019

The characterization of the river boundary condition in finite difference numerical models based on MODFLOW requires the quantification of a set of parameters, some of them usually difficult to define. A methodology is presented based on the digital elevation model (DEM) and the river network, to characterize two of these parameters: the stage of the river and the length of the river in each model cell. Suggestions are presented for the other parameters such as the riverbed bottom elevation and the width of the river to be calculated as a function of the river stage, and the riverbed thickness and hydraulic conductivity. The part of the methodology depending on the DEM is explained and demonstrated using a GIS environment with reference to the GIS tools needed to produce the main steps. This methodology produces more representative values of the river stage parameter if at least 9 DEM cells per model cell are used. This methodology allows a first approximation, at a regional scale, for the characterization of the river boundary condition in numerical modelling.
Sessant’anni del Traforo del Monte Bianco, la storia di un’impresa. Prologo: Da Annibale alle grandi gallerie alpine
Authors: Dal Piaz Giorgio Vittorio , Argentieri Alessio
Published: September 2019

Il Traforo stradale del Monte Bianco collega Entrèves, frazione di Courmayeur alla testata della Valle d’Aosta, con Chamonix e la Val de l’Arve, nel Dipartimento francese dell’Alta Savoia. Il tunnel è lungo 16,6 km e fu realizzato tra gli inizi del 1959 e il 14 agosto 1962, quando con l’ultima volata di mine fu abbattuto il diaframma che separava il tratto scavato dagli italiani, arrivati per primi alla mezzeria, da quello francese, lunghi entrambi 5.800 m s.l.m [...].
Casein kinase 1 family proteins promote Slimb-dependent Expanded degradation
Authors: Fulford Alexander D , Holder Maxine V , Frith David , Snijders Ambrosius P , Tapon Nicolas , Ribeiro Paulo S
Published: September 2019

Hippo signalling integrates diverse stimuli related to epithelial architecture to regulate tissue growth and cell fate decisions. The Hippo kinase cascade represses the growth-promoting transcription co-activator Yorkie. The FERM protein Expanded is one of the main upstream Hippo signalling regulators in Drosophila as it promotes Hippo kinase signalling and directly inhibits Yorkie. To fulfil its function, Expanded is recruited to the plasma membrane by the polarity protein Crumbs. However, Crumbs-mediated recruitment also promotes Expanded turnover via a phosphodegron-mediated interaction with a Slimb/β-TrCP SCF E3 ligase complex. Here, we show that the Casein Kinase 1 (CKI) family is required for Expanded phosphorylation. CKI expression promotes Expanded phosphorylation and interaction with Slimb/β-TrCP. Conversely, CKI depletion in S2 cells impairs Expanded degradation downstream of Crumbs. In wing imaginal discs, CKI loss leads to elevated Expanded and Crumbs levels. Thus, phospho-dependent Expanded turnover ensures a tight coupling of Hippo pathway activity to epithelial architecture.
BMP7 functions predominantly as a heterodimer with BMP2 or BMP4 during mammalian embryogenesis
Authors: Kim Hyung-Seok , Neugebauer Judith , McKnite Autumn , Tilak Anup , Christian Jan L
Published: September 2019

BMP7/BMP2 or BMP7/BMP4 heterodimers are more active than homodimers in vitro, but it is not known whether these heterodimers signal in vivo. To test this, we generated knock in mice carrying a mutation (Bmp7R-GFlag) that prevents proteolytic activation of the dimerized BMP7 precursor protein. This mutation eliminates the function of BMP7 homodimers and all other BMPs that normally heterodimerize with BMP7. While Bmp7 null homozygotes are live born, Bmp7R-GFlag homozygotes are embryonic lethal and have broadly reduced BMP activity. Furthermore, compound heterozygotes carrying the Bmp7R-G allele together with a null allele of Bmp2 or Bmp4 die during embryogenesis with defects in ventral body wall closure and/or the heart. Co-immunoprecipitation assays confirm that endogenous BMP4/7 heterodimers exist. Thus, BMP7 functions predominantly as a heterodimer with BMP2 or BMP4 during mammalian development, which may explain why mutations in either Bmp4 or Bmp7 lead to a similar spectrum of congenital defects in humans.
qPCR and loop mediated isothermal amplification for rapid detection of Ustilago tritici
Authors: Yan Hanwen , Zhang Jian , Ma Dongfang , Yin Junliang
Published: September 2019

Loose smut of wheat caused by the basidiomycete fungus Ustilago tritici, a seed-borne disease, is difficult to control because of the expanse of wheat planting area and difficulty in pathogen detection. In this study, real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR (qPCR) and loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) assays are used to rapidly amplify the DNA of U. tritici. Five pairs of primers for qPCR and two series primers for LAMP were designed. Primarily, the specificity of the primer was assessed by using genomic DNA of U. tritici, Fusarium graminearum, Blumeria graminis, Rhizoctonia cerealis, Puccinia striiformis, Bipolaris sorokiniana, and Alternaria solani as templates. Further, the amplification systems were optimized. Finally, the sensitivity of qPCR and LAMP assays were evaluated. The results showed that the primer Y-430 F/R, Y-307 F/R, Y-755 F/R, and Y-139 F/R for qPCR and primers L-139 and L-988 for LAMP could be used for U. tritici detection. In the sensitivity test, the detection limit of qPCR assay was identified as 10 pg μL−1 of genomic DNA, the detection limit for LAMP assay was 100 fg μL−1. We successfully performed qPCR and LAMP assays on wheat loose smut wheat samples. This paper establishes two methods for U. tritici detection, which can be used for diagnosis of wheat loose smut in the laboratory and in the field.
SKA1 promotes oncogenic properties in oral dysplasia and oral squamous cell carcinoma, and augments resistance to radiotherapy
Authors: Grandits Alexander Michael , Reinoehl Barbara Andrea , Wagner Renate , Kuess Peter , Eckert Franziska , Berghoff Anna Sophie , Fuereder Thorsten , Wieser Rotraud
Published: December 2024

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is a malignancy associated with high morbidity and mortality, yet treatment options are limited. In addition to genetic alterations, aberrant gene expression contributes to the pathology of malignant diseases. In the present study, we identified 629 genes consistently dysregulated between OSCC and normal oral mucosa across nine public gene expression datasets. Among them, mitosis‐related genes were significantly enriched, including spindle and kinetochore‐associated complex subunit 1 (SKA1), whose roles in OSCC had been studied only to a very limited extent. We show that SKA1 promoted proliferation and colony formation in 2D and 3D, shortened the duration of metaphase, and increased the migration of OSCC cell lines. In addition, high SKA1 expression enhanced radioresistance, a previously unknown effect of this gene, which was accompanied by a reduction of radiation‐induced senescence. SKA1 was also upregulated in a subset of advanced oral premalignancies and promoted tumor‐relevant properties in a corresponding cell line. Gene expression patterns evoked by SKA1 overexpression confirmed that this gene is able to advance properties required for both early and advanced stages of tumorigenesis. In summary, our data show that SKA1 contributes to malignant progression in OSCC and may be a useful marker of radioresistance in this disease.
Ultrasound‐Enabled Sonogenetics: Pioneering Advances in Cancer Theranostics
Authors: Zhang Beibei , Mo Lianfeng , Huang Rong , Chen Ge , Yang Siyi , Zhang Xu , Sang Mengmeng , Zhao Yingying , Li Zesheng , Li Ruifang , Zhang Lianzhong , Wang Yongchao
Published: December 2024

The diagnosis and treatment of cancer face significant challenges. Thus, precise and controllable methods for effective tumor management are required. Sonogenetics which combines ultrasound technology with genetic engineering provides a promising solution. This approach utilizes the non‐invasive nature and deep tissue penetration capabilities of ultrasound to enable precise diagnostics and targeted therapies for cancer. This review explores the roles of sonogenetics‐mediated technology in cancer theranostics. The fundamental properties of ultrasound and the mechanisms underlying sonogenetics are first introduced. Then, this work summarizes representative applications of sonogenetics in cancer therapy, including cell‐based therapies, bacteria‐based therapies, and targeted eradication of tumor cells. Additionally, the applications of sonogenetics in cancer diagnosis, focusing on engineered gas vesicles (GVs) and sonogenetics‐mediated in situ generation of GVs for diagnostic purposes are presented. Finally, the challenges and clinical translation potential of sonogenetics are well discussed.
Agricultural productivity fluctuations and structural transformation—Evidence from rural China
Authors: Wang Heer
Published: December 2024

This study explores how short‐term agricultural productivity fluctuations affect labor supply of Chinese rural households under the background of frequent extreme weather events. It reveals that extreme rainfall‐induced declines in agricultural productivity lead to decreased agricultural employment and increased non‐agricultural employment and migration. Additionally, there is a shift in workdays away from agriculture toward sectors such as manufacturing, construction, and transportation. The study estimates that labor reallocation can alleviate 32.56% of income losses caused by these productivity fluctuations. Overall, these findings underscore the vital role of labor reallocation in mitigating the economic impact of short‐term agricultural productivity declines.
Towards sustainable school food: An experiential planetary health framework integrating meals and food education
Authors: Sabet Fatma , Böhm Steffen
Published: December 2024

This study addresses the complex challenges of childhood obesity, food poverty and environmental degradation by developing a planetary health framework for school food in education. Drawing on Dewey's experiential learning philosophy, it adopts an integrative approach where school meals and food education converge. Rooted in the planetary health model, the research explores the interdependence of human and environmental health within the context of school food. Employing a convergent mixed‐methods approach, we conduct interviews, a web‐based survey and observations in English primary schools to explore multiple stakeholders' perspectives on sustainable school food. Findings underscore three defining characteristics of sustainable school food: reversion to scratch cooking, prioritising local and agroecological food procurement and promoting plant‐based meals. Findings stress the convergence of health and environmental sustainability within school food, highlighting the need for a planetary health approach to school food where meals and education are integrated into school food experiences. Experiential food education, such as cooking and farm visits, supports sustainable school meals provision and their use as a pedagogical tool, embedding sustainable food practices into pupils' everyday school experiences. The study underscores the role of ethical leadership in allocating scarce resources and empowering often marginalised stakeholders such as catering staff and local producers to mobilise school food partnerships. Such partnerships generate mutual benefits, such as supporting local agroecological food production and challenging the dominance of processed foods in school menus from large corporations.
Supportive but suspicious: Ideology, institutional trust, electoral participation and gender shape public opinion on citizenship education in the UK
Authors: Hecht Annika , Obradović Sandra , Andreouli Eleni
Published: December 2024

Citizenship Education (CE) has been found to be an effective tool in preparing young people to participate actively in a democracy. However, recent years have seen a decline in both the quality and provision of CE, coupled with a notable absence of public input on the subject. This paper provides an initial exploration of the British public's views on citizenship education through an exploratory survey conducted with a nationally representative sample of 1003 individuals. The survey examined public perceptions of the current quality of CE, general support for the subject, and specific educational aims. Our findings indicate that while CE is generally regarded as important, its quality is perceived as lacking. Respondents highlighted critical thinking skills, as well as financial and digital literacy as the most crucial components of CE, whereas communitarian aspects of citizenship were deemed less significant. Additionally, the study found that ideology, demographic factors, and political attitudes significantly influence public views on CE. The paper concludes with a discussion of policy and research implications, emphasising the need to incorporate public perceptions in the design of citizenship education and suggesting ways that CE can be developed to support democratic engagement.
“You First Have to Check Out the Doctors”: Transition Expectations and Experiences of Survivors After Pediatric Cancer
Authors: Aleshchenko Ekaterina , Langer Thorsten , Calaminus Gabriele , Glogner Juliane , Haugke Henrike , Trocchi Pietro , Swart Enno , Baust Katja
Published: December 2024

Purpose

The shift from child‐centered to adult‐focused healthcare presents social and psychological challenges for adolescents and young adults with chronic conditions, which can affect their participation in follow‐up care. This study aims to investigate the factors that influence patient‐driven motivations for adhering to follow‐up recommendations, while also exploring the barriers and supports that impact the transition process for pediatric cancer survivors.

Methods

We developed interview guidelines grounded in the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) and the stereotype priming model (SPM). We conducted 10 episodic narrative interviews with pediatric cancer survivors during their transition phase. The interview transcripts were analyzed through qualitative thematic content analysis, followed by quantitative analysis using multiple regression models. This research is a part of the broader VersKiK study, which aims to propose enhancements to the organization of (long‐term) follow‐up care after cancer in childhood and adolescence in Germany.

Results

In this study, pediatric cancer survivors transitioning to adult healthcare showed varied motivations for follow‐up care. Positive attitudes, driven by understanding the benefits, improved engagement, while anxiety and fear of losing familiar care created barriers. Family and peer support played a key role in encouraging adherence. Perceived control over healthcare management, supported by organizational help, was crucial, but logistical and financial challenges often undermined this control.

Conclusions

Several motives underlying pediatric cancer survivors' behavior significantly influence their transition experiences. Enhancing positive attitudes, strengthening social support, and improving perceived control through targeted interventions may support smoother transitions to adult healthcare facilities.

Trial Registration: Registered at German Clinical Trial Register (IDs: DRKS00025960 and DRKS00026092)
Mechanistic Study of Ethanol Decomposition on Co3O4(111) and Pd/Co3O4(111) Model Catalysts
Authors: Reindl Simone , Škvára Jan , Hauner Jonas , Simanenko Alexander , Kastenmeier Maximilian , Ronovský Michal , Skála Tomáš , Tsud Nataliya , Kettner Miroslav , Mehl Sascha , Vorochta Michael , Šmíd Břetislav , Retzer Tanja , Mysliveček Josef , Brummel Olaf , Johánek Viktor , Lykhach Yaroslava , Libuda Jörg
Published: December 2024

In many advanced catalytic materials, different functionalities are coupled through spillover of active species across heterogeneous interfaces. In the present work, we consider the coupling of a C─C bond cleavage functionality of palladium with the self‐cleaning functionality of reducible Co3O4. On the model catalyst Pd/Co3O4(111)/Ir(100), we probed the interplay of the two functionalities for the selective decomposition of ethanol. In a systematic study, we compared the decomposition mechanisms of ethanol on Co3O4(111)/Ir(100) and Pd/Co3O4(111)/Ir(100) model catalysts using a variety of analytical techniques including synchrotron radiation photoelectron spectroscopy (SRPES), resonant photoemission spectroscopy (RPES), temperature programmed desorption (TPD), and near ambient pressure X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (NAP‐XPS). We found that ethanol decomposes via an ethoxy intermediate yielding acetaldehyde on Co3O4(111)/Ir(100). Remarkably, the spillover of ethanol/ethoxy species on Pd/Co3O4(111)/Ir(100) results in the selective formation of methane, hydrogen, and CO. Additionally, we observed CO2 resulting from the oxidative removal of carbonaceous deposits on Pd nanoparticles via spillover of active oxygen species released by Co3O4(111)/Ir(100) at higher temperatures. The onset of product formation and the product spectrum on both Co3O4(111)/Ir(100) and Pd/Co3O4(111)/Ir(100) depend strongly on the oxidation state of Co3O4. Complete removal of lattice oxygen from Co3O4(111) results in the deposition of large amounts of carbon.
Isopeptidic Desferrioxamine Analogues: The Role of Hydroxamate Spacing for Chelation of Zr4+
Authors: Outzen Lasse , Ludolfs Darius , Irl Maximilian , Kossatz Susanne , Maison Wolfgang
Published: December 2024

[89Zr]Zr4+ is a radionuclide of increasing clinical relevance for PET (positron emission tomography). However, an ideal chelator for stable Zr‐chelation remains to be discovered. This study describes the solid‐phase synthesis of octadentate Zr‐chelators based on an isopeptidic (ip) scaffold derived from the natural siderophore desferrioxamine (DFOB). Several analogues with different spacers separating the chelating hydroxamates have been prepared and converted to [89Zr]Zr‐complexes. The stability of these complexes was evaluated in human serum and in competition to excess of competing chelators. The assays revealed a beneficial effect of long hydroxamate spacing (9 atoms). Shorter spacing led to a decrease in complex stability. The most stable [89Zr]Zr‐ipDFO complex had a high stability in challenging competition experiments with a large excess of EDTA for 72 h as determined by radio TLC and LC/MS. The straightforward synthesis, high complex stability and a modular character make ipDFO derivatives promising chelators for applications in targeted PET.
A Scalable Delay‐Expanding Technique for Low‐Area On‐Chip Power‐On Reset Circuits
Authors: Mansoury Hamid Sadat , Saeedi Saeed , Atarodi Mojtaba
Published: December 2024

A scalable structure is presented and analyzed that can provide delays in a wide range (microseconds to minutes) for the power‐on reset circuit. The proposed structure enables the implementation of these delays entirely on‐chip through the utilization of a provisional oscillator and a set of flip‐flops. The optimal number of flip‐flops can be determined through an area optimization process. The proposed power‐on reset circuit thresholds demonstrate the process, voltage, temperature (PVT) tolerance, facilitated by the use of resistors of the same type. Notably, the thresholds and provided delay for this circuit are supply‐rise‐time independent. The structure has been implemented in a 0.18‐μm CMOS technology, occupying an active area of 48 × 40 μm2.
Pilot‐scale production of the low‐temperature NH3‐SCR catalyst with high industrial application prospects from natural zeolite and manganese oxide
Authors: Huang Wenfeng , Liu Tongyuan , Jin Dan , Yang Lin , Jiang Wenju
Published: December 2024

In this study, a low‐temperature NH3 selective catalytic reduction (NH3‐SCR) catalyst with great industrial applicability was produced on a pilot scale using natural zeolite as the carrier and natural manganese oxide as the active component. The effects of activation temperature and nitric acid dosage on the mechanical strength and NH3‐SCR performance were discussed. The results demonstrated that the catalyst CMZ‐10‐600, prepared at a calcination temperature of 600°C with a 10.0 wt % nitric acid dosage, exhibited the best NH3‐SCR performance while meeting the mechanical strength requirements for industrial applications. The NO conversion ranged from 93.8% to 100.0%, and the N2 selectivity varied between 78.0% and 100% at a gas hourly space velocity (GHSV) of 5000 h−1 within the reaction temperature range of 150–250°C. The prepared catalysts were characterized using the scanning electron microscopy, x‐ray powder diffraction, BET, NH3‐TPD, and x‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), which elucidated the effects of the preparation method on the catalyst strength, physicochemical properties, and the NH3‐SCR performance of the catalysts. The research results proved that the catalysts produced by this process exhibit good mechanical strength and catalytic properties, coupled with low raw material costs and a simple preparation technique, highlighting a promising prospect for industrial application.
On the Detection of Structural Breaks: The Case of the Covid Shock
Authors: Hall Stephen G. , Tavlas George S. , Trapani Lorenzo , Wang Yongli
Published: December 2024

Both the Federal Reserve (Fed) and the European Central Bank (ECB) have been criticized for not having perceived that the outbreak of Covid at the beginning of 2020 would lead to a structural change in inflation in the early 2020s. Both central banks viewed the initial inflation surge in 2021 as temporary and delayed monetary tightening until 2022. We argue that the existing literature on structural breaks could not have been useful to policymakers because it identifies the breaks in an arbitrary way. The tests used to identify breaks do not incorporate prior knowledge that a break may have occurred so that the tests have very little power to detect a break that occurs at the end of the sample. We show that, in the event of a major shock, such as Covid, using knowledge that a break may have occurred and testing for a break in a recursive way as new data become available could have alerted policymakers to the break in inflation. We conduct Monte Carlo simulations suggesting that our method would have identified that a break had occurred in inflation by the end of 2020, well before policymakers had perceived the break.
Applications Of Plasma Display Panels In Military C3I Systems Environments
Authors: Aitken Theodore B. , Primozich Frank
Published: December 2024

This paper describes some systems applications of plasma panel displays in military command, control, communication and intelligence (C3l) systems. The potential lethality and rapid pace of warfare on the modern battlefield make positive command and control of our armed forces more critical than ever. Highly mobile user‐friendly, automatic data processing systems must be able to survive extreme environments. The user is relatively unsophisticated, is unfamiliar with computer programming, and is required to both operate the system and provide maintenance under highly stressful conditions. The plasma display, used in conjunction with a state‐of‐the‐art microprocessor‐based automatic data processing system, hasa number of characteristics which make it particularly suitable as a man‐machine interface to be used in tactical C3I equipment in the modern army. Several factors must be taken into consideration in the design of plasma displays so that they will be able not only to withstand the severe tactical environment to which they are exposed, but also to provide a user‐friendly interface. Specific examples of tactical operational army systems utilizing plasma displays of various sizes are discussed.
The Display Copier's Liquid Crystal Display Interfaces with Copy Machine
Authors: Lester Robert W.
Published: December 2024

THE INFORMATION DISPLAY INDUSTRY HAS BEEN ANXIOUS TO REPLACE THE CRT WITH FLAT PANEL DISPLAYS SUCH AS THIS ONE YOU'RE LOOKING AT. ADVANTAGES OF LIQUID CRYSTAL FLAT PANEL DISPLAYS OUER CATHODE RAY TUBES ARE AS FOLLOWS: THE CRT TAKES TWENTY TIMES MORE SPACE THAN A FLAT PANEL DISPLAY. THE CRT NEIGHS AT LEAST TEN TIMES MORE THAN THE FLAT PANEL DISPLAY. THE CRT REQUIRES A FIFTEEN TO TWENTY‐FIVE THOUSAND VOLTS STEPUP TRANSFORMER. THE CRT USES AVERAGE ONE HUNDRED WATTS AT ONE HUNDRED TWENTY VOLTS. THE LC DISPLAY USES LESS THAN ONE WATT AT ONLY ONE VOLT. STATIC SYSTEMS CORPORATION HAS DEVELOPED A PRINTING SYSTEM ALLOWING LETTERS OR OTHER DOCUMENTS TO BE PRINTED BY ANY FLAT BED PHOTOCOPIER. THE STATIC‐TYPER SYSTEM UTILIZES REFLECTIVE TYPE LIQUID CRYSTAL DISPLAYS WHICH ARE IMAGED BY PLACING THE DISPLAY ON THE COPY MACHINE OR BUILDING IT INTO A REPLACEABLE COVER ADAPTER. THE WORD PROCESSOR USER TYPES THE TEXT DOCUMENT AND AFTER EDITING SAME INPUTS THE TEXT TO THE LIQUID CRYSTAL DISPLAY ON THE COPIER. THIS SYSTEM NOT ONLY ELIMINATES NOISY EXPENSIVE SPACE‐CONSUMING PRINTERS BUT PAYS FOR ITSELF IN A FEW YEARS ANOTHER SIGNIFICANT ADVANTAGE IS COUPLING TO A TELEPHONE DATA UNIT TO SEND OR RECEIVE TO REMOTE COPIERS ANYWHERE THEREBY ELIMINATING TELETYPE AND TELEX MACHINES. GRAPHIC QUALITY DISPLAYS WILL ALSO BE AVAILABLE IN THE HEAR FUTURE ALLOWING THE USE OF A DIGITIZING SCANNER TO TRANSMIT PICTURES, SIGNATURES, DRAWINGS AND SO FORTH. SIMPLY PUSHING THE BUTTON FOR THE NUMBER OF COPIES DESIRED WOULD ALLOW THE MILLIONS OF EXISTING COPIERS TO BE CONVERTED INSTANTLY TO WORD PROCESSING PRINTERS YET STILL RETAINING THE FUNCTION OF DUPLICATING ORIGINALS WITHOUT ALTERING COPIER.
Multimodal Ultrasound Imaging in the Diagnosis of Primary Giant Cell Tumor of the Breast: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Chen Fei , Chen Yu‐Jia , Hu Yan‐Ze
Published: December 2024

Giant cell tumor of soft tissue (GCT‐ST) is an extremely rare phenomenon in the breast. Herein, a case involving a 75‐year‐old female with a painless lump and bloody discharge from the nipple of her left breast is reported. A diagnosis of malignant tumor was arrived at by observing the location of the tumor, interior echo, margins, vascular distribution, hardness, and microvascular density on preoperative multimodal ultrasonography. However, no evidence of malignancy was found on ultrasonography‐guided nuclear needle biopsy or rapid intraoperative pathological examination. Subsequently, an excisional biopsy was performed, and GCT‐ST coincident with high‐grade ductal carcinoma in situ were confirmed using histopathology and immunohistochemistry. Accordingly, the patient underwent left‐sided mastectomy and sentinel lymph node biopsy. This case emphasizes the complexity of the clinical and pathological diagnosis of GCT‐ST in the breast and may raise the awareness of clinicians and sonographers to the advantages of multimodal ultrasound imaging in the diagnosis of GCT‐ST in the breast. Pathologists should consider the possibility of GCT‐ST when encountering a giant cell‐rich mass in the breast.
Optimizing dental students’ use of feedback: Validation of a theoretical model
Authors: Sallam Aziza A. , Abdulmohsen Bana , Ellis Janice
Published: December 2024

Purpose

A model describing the factors that influence the use of feedback by dental students from three UK dental schools has been proposed. Seven factors that influence feedback utilization were identified. This project aims to test the validity of this model in a larger student population from two UK dental schools in Newcastle upon Tyne and Cardiff.

Methods

An electronic questionnaire was created and circulated to two dental schools. Data from schools were combined and analyzed using SPSS software. A total of 304 responses were analyzed using principal component analysis resulting in the extraction of nine components which were identified as “most important.” The Kruskal–Wallis test was used to analyze the correlations of these components with the demographic characteristics of participants.

Results

The nine components were feedback utility, feedback value, credibility, learning approach, the learner's understanding of the feedback's purpose, and its processes, accessibility, future applicability, and institutional processes. According to the Kruskal–Wallis analysis, seven of the components (but not credibility or institutional processes) were found to be influenced by differences in the gender, nationality, and ethnicity of students as well as their previous educational experience. However, no evidence was found that variables such as age, student year group, or religious beliefs affected any of these components.

Conclusion

Some demographic characteristics are more engaged with one or more components than others. Understanding that will help optimizing this model and ultimately benefits students and institutions. The main project's goal was met by the research in validating the previously developed model.
Liquid Chromatography Column Screening for the Analysis of Corrosion Inhibitor Molecules Using Derringer Desirability Functions
Authors: Furno L. , Combès A. , Thiébaut D. , Méré A. , Passade‐Boupat N. , Vial J.
Published: December 2024

Corrosion inhibitors (CIs) are extensively employed in the oil and gas industry, yet their analysis remains a challenge. To develop a suitable liquid chromatography method for a wide array of CIs, a column screening was conducted. Nine different chromatographic conditions were tested across eight RPLC and mixed‐mode columns (Accucore C18, CORTECS Shield RP18, Acquity HSS T3, Acquity Premier HSS T3, Accucore 150‐C4, Accucore PFP, Synergi Polar RP, and Acclaim WCX‐1). Seven model mixtures representative of CIs, which included quaternary ammoniums, imidazolines, and phosphoric esters, were considered to probe the columns. Each column exhibited unique analytical performances, peak shape, and separation profiles. To find a compromise to analyze all the mixtures with one method, Derringer desirability functions were used. Shielding of residual silanols proved to be a critical factor. The trifunctional grafting of the Acquity HSS T3 columns appeared to be a promising strategy to minimize residual silanol effects. However, it was the Premier technology, which protects the column's inner walls and frits against parasitic adsorption, which delivered the best overall results. Based on the desirability study, the Acquity Premier HSS T3 column was selected and the gradient was optimized, which enabled the separation of the molecules present in the model mixtures.
Automatic plan selection using deep network—A prostate study
Authors: Chatigny Philippe Y. , Bélanger Cédric , Poulin Éric , Beaulieu Luc
Published: December 2024

Background

Recently, high‐dose‐rate (HDR) brachytherapy treatment plans generation was improved with the development of multicriteria optimization (MCO) algorithms that can generate thousands of pareto optimal plans within seconds. This brings a shift, from the objective of generating an acceptable plan to choosing the best plans out of thousands.

Purpose

In order to choose the best plans, new criteria beyond usual dosimetrics volumes histogram (DVH) metrics are introduced and a deep learning (DL) framework is added as an automatic plan selection algorithm.

Methods

The new criteria are visual‐like criteria implemented for the bladder, rectum, and urethra. One criterion also takes into account the cold spot in the prostate. Those criteria, along with commonly used DVH criteria, are used to form classes on which to train the algorithm. The algorithm is trained with an input of two 3D images, dose and mask of the anatomy, in order to rank and automatically select a plan. The confidence in the output is used for ranking and the automatic plan selection. The algorithm is trained on 835 previously treated prostate cancer patients and evaluated on a separated 20 patients cohort previously evaluated by two experts (clinical medical physicists) in an inter‐observer MCO study.

Results

The deep network takes 10 s to rank 2000 plans (vs. 5–10 min for experts to rank 4 preferred plans). A total of four different networks are trained which offer different trade‐offs. The key trade‐offs are the target coverage or the organs at risk (OAR) sparing. The algorithm with the best network achieves no statistical difference with the plans chosen by the two experts for 6 and 9 criteria, respectively, out of 13 criteria (paired t‐test with p 0.05) while the two experts have no statistical difference between them for 7 criteria.

Conclusions

The developed approach is flexible since it allows the modification or addition of criteria to obtain different trade‐offs in plan quality, per the institution standard. The approach is fast and robust while adding negligible time to MCO planning. These results demonstrate potential for clinical use.
Optimal Procurement From Multiple Contracts in Agricultural Processing
Authors: Li Bin
Published: December 2024

This paper examines the procurement decisions of an agricultural processor that sources a commodity input from two quantity flexibility contracts, each of which is characterized by a unit reservation cost and a unit exercise cost, to produce and sell a commodity output under input and output spot price uncertainties. We identify the cost‐flexibility trade‐off faced by the processor when making procurement decisions and examine how this trade‐off in different contracts shapes the optimal procurement strategy. We also investigate how the spot price correlation affects the processor's procurement decisions, profitability, and the value of contract procurement; that is, the difference between the optimal expected profit with and without contract procurement. We find that as spot price correlation increases, the processor increases its total contract reservation volumes and the reservation volume from the contract with a lower exercise cost. We also find that while the optimal profit without contract procurement decreases in spot price correlation, the value of contract procurement increases; that is, contracts provide a hedge against increasing spot price correlation. Using a calibration based on a typical palm oil processor in Malaysia, we show that the hedging value does not eliminate the negative impact of an increasing correlation on the processor's profit; that is, the optimal expected profit with contract procurement also decreases in spot price correlation. We also observe that the value of contract procurement is substantial. Our results have important implications for the procurement strategy in agricultural processing industries.
Current Surgical Approach to Pulmonary Metastasectomy
Authors: Corkum Kristine S. , Craig Brian T. , Piche Nelson , Pio Luca , Fernandez‐Pineda Israel , Malek Marcus M. , Lautz Timothy B.
Published: December 2024

The lung is a common site of metastases for children and adolescents with a wide variety of solid tumors. The role for pulmonary metastasectomy is dictated by tumor histology and can serve either therapeutic or diagnostic purposes. Careful surgical planning is required to determine the optimal surgical approach and to ensure successful nodule localization. While high level data are limited, in appropriate situations pulmonary metastasectomy can confirm staging, guide therapy, improve survival, and reduce the need for other therapy escalations.
Enhanced mechanical property of polyethylene wax/gadolinium oxide/methyl vinyl silicone rubber composites via gamma irradiation
Authors: Xin Lingfei , Dai Yaodong , Qian Bingbing , Yao Chuqing , Wang Guohui
Published: December 2024

The properties of rubber can be changed by controlling the radiation conditions, so as to be suitable for specific application scenarios. This study compares the structure, mechanical properties, cross‐linking density, thermal properties, and shielding properties of polyethylene wax/gadolinium oxide/methyl vinyl silicone rubber (PEW/Gd2O3/MVQ) under different radiation doses and atmospheric conditions. The results showed that the tensile strength of the neutron shielding rubber exhibited growth and subsequently decreased with increasing irradiation dosage, and the tensile strength reached the optimum value of 8.29 MPa after 25 kGy in air. The hardness and cross‐linking density of the sample increase with the increase of the dose, and especially the hardness and cross‐linking density of the sample irradiated in the air atmosphere at 25 kGy were better than that in the vacuum. The addition of PEW to the rubber significantly increased the thermal neutron‐shielding rate, from 74.10% to 86.59% when 36 phr of Gd2O3 was added. The thermal neutron‐shielding rate increased from 84.42% to 88.39% when irradiated 50 kGy in air. It was found that the comprehensive performance of the rubber was optimized after irradiation of 25 kGy in the air atmosphere.

Highlights

The mechanical properties of rubber are enhanced by low‐dose irradiation in air.

Irradiation of rubber in air is superior to irradiation in vacuum, with optimal results at 25 kGy.

Rubber maintains thermal stability at low doses of irradiation.

The addition of PEW improves the shielding properties.

Rubber retains excellent thermal neutron‐shielding properties after irradiation.
School belonging and students' math achievement among secondary students: the role of math attitude and disorderly behavior
Authors: Liu Ying , Huang Jinyan
Published: December 2024

In this research, structural equation modeling and TIMSS data were employed to examine the impact of school belonging on math achievement among secondary students in Japan, Korea, and the United States, with a focus on the roles of math attitude and disorderly behavior. Utilizing SmartPLS 4.0, the study delved into the reliability and validity of the measurement model, the direct and indirect effects within the structural model, and gender differences in these dynamics. The findings indicated that while school belonging directly affected math achievement in the United States, it did not in Japan and Korea. Math attitude, encompassing aspects like enjoyment of math (liking math), math self‐concept, and the value placed on math (math value), along with disorderly behavior, emerged as key mediators in this relationship. The study also revealed that the associations between school belonging, math attitude, disorderly behavior, and math achievement were more pronounced in boys than in girls. Implications for educators are discussed.
Brief Expressive Writing Improves Social Performance in College Students With Mild Social Anxiety
Authors: Li Yan , Liu Zhiwei
Published: December 2024

Social anxiety is a prevalent issue among college students, often leading to poor academic and psychosocial adjustment. Expressive writing has shown promise as a brief, cost‐effective intervention for improving mental and physical health. This study investigated the effects of a 15‐min expressive writing session on the social performance of mildly socially anxious college students. Participants (N = 128) were randomly assigned to write expressively about social anxieties or do a control writing task. Before and after, they introduced themselves while being audio recorded. Results demonstrated that expressive writing significantly increased the number of words spoken, time spent speaking, speech rate, and use of positive emotion words during the social interaction, compared to the control condition. However, no significant effects were found for negative emotion word use or speech volume. Additionally, no significant relationship was observed between the number of words written and social performance measures. These findings suggest that even brief expressive writing interventions can improve some aspects of social performance in mildly socially anxious college students. The lack of association between writing length and social performance outcomes highlights the potential effectiveness of short writing exercises, which is particularly relevant for school‐based applications where time and resources are often limited. This study provides initial evidence for the use of brief expressive writing as a scalable, practical intervention to improve social functioning and promote adjustment among socially anxious students in educational settings.