bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A novel oral medicine‐centered interprofessional curricular initiative to promote collaboration and build oral health capacity
Authors: Fatahzadeh Mahnaz , Sabato Emily , Singhal Vaishali , Wagner Mary , Fenesy Kim
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Oral physicians should possess knowledge, skills, and attitudes required for functioning in the evolving integrated care systems. Paramount for addressing the existing oral health disparities is also adequate training of non‐dental health professionals in the foundations of oral health. We conducted interprofessional oral medicine‐centered case conferences to prepare dental students for collaborative care and to increase awareness of non‐dental students about the mouth‐body connection. Herein, we share our perspective and the students’ feedback about this educational program.

Methods

Students from seven health profession and social work programs attended an interactive, online oral medicine‐centered case conference facilitated by an oral medicine faculty and at least one faculty from another profession. Faculty facilitators guided students to identify key points and encouraged team‐based care. Anonymous, voluntary online surveys were distributed to participants immediately after each session. Descriptive data tabulated and analyzed.

Results

A total of 151 students participated in conferences between 11/11/2022 and 3/24/2023 and 132 (87%) submitted postexperience surveys. Students agreed that the case conference was applicable to their profession (95%) and meaningful (94%), they learned new information about other professions (94%), they could contribute to discussions (90%), interactions were respectful (99%), and discussions emphasized interprofessional collaboration (96%). Non‐dental respondents learned more about oral‐systemic link (95%), recognized a broader role for dentists (90%), and agreed with inclusion of more oral health content in their curricula (79%).

Conclusion

Oral medicine‐centered case conferences provided an effective curricular path for demonstrating oral‐systemic connection, promoting meaningful interprofessional collaboration, and building oral health capacity among students of non‐dental health professions.
Developmental gene expression in the eyes of the pygmy squid Xipholeptos notoides
Authors: Koller David , Kocot Kevin M. , Degnan Bernard M. , Wollesen Tim
Published: August 2024

The eyes of squids, octopuses, and cuttlefish are a textbook example for evolutionary convergence, due to their striking similarity to those of vertebrates. For this reason, studies on cephalopod photoreception and vision are of importance for a broader audience. Previous studies showed that genes such as pax6, or certain opsin‐encoding genes, are evolutionarily highly conserved and play similar roles during ontogenesis in remotely related bilaterians. In this study, genes that encode photosensitive proteins and Reflectins are identified and characterized. The expression patterns of rhodopsin, xenopsin, retinochrome, and two reflectin genes have been visualized in developing embryos of the pygmy squid Xipholeptos notoides by in situ hybridization experiments. Rhodopsin is not only expressed in the retina of X. notoides but also in the olfactory organ and the dorsal parolfactory vesicles, the latter a cephalopod apomorphy. Both reflectin genes are expressed in the eyes and in the olfactory organ. These findings corroborate previous studies that found opsin genes in the transcriptomes of the eyes and several extraocular tissues of various cephalopods. Expression of rhodopsin, xenopsin, retinochrome, and the two reflectin genes in the olfactory organ is a finding that has not been described so far. In other organisms, it has been shown that Retinochrome and Rhodopsin proteins are obligatorily associated with each other as both molecules rely on each other for Retinal isomerisation. In addition, we demonstrate that retinochrome is expressed in the retina of X. notoides and in the olfactory organ. This study shows numerous new expression patterns for Opsin‐encoding genes in organs that have not been associated with photoreception before, suggesting that either Opsins may not only be involved in photoreception or organs such as the olfactory organ are involved in photoreception.
The association between adherence to antiretroviral therapy and viral suppression under dolutegravir‐based regimens: an observational cohort study from Uganda
Authors: Wagner Zachary , Wang Zetianyu , Stecher Chad , Karamagi Yvonne , Odiit Mary , Haberer Jessica E. , Linnemayr Sebastian
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Millions of people living with HIV (PLWH) take oral antiretroviral therapy (ART), which requires a lifetime of consistent medication adherence. The relationship between adherence and poor HIV outcomes is well documented. Newer ART regimens that include dolutegravir (DTG) could be more forgiving, but empirical evidence on the relationship between adherence and viral suppression under DTG is only emerging.

Methods

In this observational cohort study (secondary analysis of data from a randomized trial), we used data from 313 ART clients from a large HIV clinic in Kampala, Uganda. Over the 4‐year study period (January 2018–January 2022), 91% switched from non‐DTG regimens to DTG regimens. We measured adherence using Medication Event Monitoring Systems‐caps and extracted prescription information and viral load measures from electronic health records. We estimated unadjusted linear regressions and adjusted models that included individual and time fixed‐effects.

Results

Under non‐DTG regimens, 96% of participants were virally suppressed (defined as viral load < 200 copies/ml) when adherence was 90% or higher in the 3 months before viral load measurement. Viral suppression was 32 percentage points lower when adherence was between 0% and 49% (95% CI −0.44, −0.20, p < 0.01), 12 percentage points lower when adherence was between 50% and 79% (95% CI −0.23, −0.02, p < 0.01), and not significantly different when adherence was between 80% and 89% (effect of 0.00, 95% CI −0.06, 0.07, p = 0.81). In contrast, for participants taking DTG, there was no statistically significant difference in viral suppression among any of the four adherence levels; more than 95% were virally suppressed at each adherence level. On average, switching to DTG increased viral suppression by 6 percentage points in our adjusted models (95% CI 0.00, 0.13, p = 0.03).

Conclusions

There was no significant association between adherence levels and viral suppression among PLWH taking DTG regimens, suggesting a high degree of forgiveness for missed doses. The use of DTG should be prioritized over older regimens, particularly for those with low adherence.

Clinical Trial Number

NCT03494777.
The effect of radiation or chemotherapy on the local recurrence, overall survival, and distant metastasis in patients with myxofibrosarcoma: A systematic review
Authors: Tibbo Meagan E. , Landau Rebecca , Markowitz Moses I. , Abuodeh Yousef , Thomas Temple H. , Crawford Brooke
Published: August 2024

Background and Objectives

Management of myxofibrosarcoma (MFS) is widely debated, and there is no consensus regarding the effect of adjuvant therapies on local recurrence (LR), distant metastasis (DM), or overall survival (OS). This study aims to determine the effect of adjuvant therapies on the aforementioned outcomes in patients with MFS.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review via Medline, PubMed, CINAHL, Cochrane, Embase, and Google Scholar. Therapeutic studies that reported LR, DM, and OS following adjuvant therapies in patients with MFS were included. Statistical analysis and creation of hazard ratios were performed using Revman 5.3 (Cochrane Collaboration).

Results

We identified 301 studies, 10 of which were included in the final analysis. Neither chemotherapy nor radiation affected the rate of LR (p = 0.73 and 0.17, respectively) or OS (p = 0.97 and 0.27, respectively). Chemotherapy was significantly associated with lower rates of DM (p = 0.03); however, there was no association between radiation and DM (p = 0.67).

Conclusion

There is a lack of consensus regarding the effect of neoadjuvant and adjuvant therapies on LR, DM, and OS in patients with MFS. Our systematic review found that radiation and chemotherapy were not significantly associated with OS or LR in patients with MFS. However, we identified a significant association between chemotherapy and lower rates of DM.
Laparoscopic versus open hepatic resection in patients ≥75 years old: A NSQIP analysis evaluating 2674 patients
Authors: Verhoeff Kevin , Glinka Juan , Quan Douglas , Skaro Anton , Tang Ephraim S.
Published: August 2024

Background

Previous studies report promising outcomes with minimally invasive (MIS) hepatectomy in elderly patients but remain limited by small size. This study aims to comparatively evaluate the demographics and outcomes of geriatric patients undergoing MIS and open hepatectomy.

Method

The 2016–2021 NSQIP database was evaluated comparing patients ≥75 undergoing MIS versus open hepatectomy. Patient selection and outcomes were compared using bivariate analysis with multivariable modeling (MVR) evaluating factors associated with serious complications and mortality. Propensity score matched (PSM) analysis further evaluated serious complications, mortality, length of stay (LOS), Clavien Dindo Classification (CDC), and Comprehensive Complication Index (CCI) for cohorts.

Results

We evaluated 2674 patients with 681 (25.5%) receiving MIS hepatectomy. MIS approaches were used more for partial lobectomy (85.9% vs. 61.7%; p < 0.001), and required fewer biliary reconstructions (1.6% vs. 10.6%; p < 0.001). Patients were similar with regards to sex, body mass index, and other comorbidities. Unadjusted analysis demonstrated that MIS approaches had fewer serious complications (8.8% vs. 18.7%; p < 0.001). However, after controlling for cohort differences the MIS approach was not associated with reduced likelihood of serious complications (odds ratio [OR]: 0.77; p = 0.219) or mortality (OR: 1.19; p = 0.623). PSM analysis further supported no difference in serious complications (p = 0.403) or mortality (p = 0.446). However, following PSM a significant reduction in LOS (−1.99 days; p < 0.001), CDC (−0.26 points; p = 0.016) and CCI (−2.79 points; p = 0.022) was demonstrated with MIS approaches.

Conclusions

This is the largest study comparing MIS and open hepatectomy in elderly patients. Results temper previously reported outcomes but support reduced LOS and complications with MIS approaches.
Assessing self‐reported prolonged grief disorder with “clinical checks”: A proof of principle study
Authors: Shevlin Mark , Hyland Philip , Cloitre Marylène , Brewin Chris , Martsenkovskyi Dmytro , Ben‐Ezra Menachem , Bondjers Kristina , Karatzias Thanos , Duffy Michael , Redican Enya
Published: August 2024

Psychological assessment is commonly conducted using either self‐report measures or clinical interviews; the former are quick and easy to administer, and the latter are more time‐consuming and require training. Self‐report measures have been criticized for producing higher estimates of symptom and disorder presence relative to clinical interviews, with the assumption being that self‐report measures are prone to Type 1 error. Here, we introduce the use of “clinical checks” within an existing self‐report measure. These are brief supplementary questions intended to clarify and confirm initial responses, similar to what occurs in a clinical interview. Clinical checks were developed for the items of the International Grief Questionnaire (IGQ), a self‐report measure of ICD‐11 prolonged grief disorder (PGD). Data were collected as part of a community survey of mental health in Ukraine. Individual symptom endorsements for the IGQ significantly decreased with the use of clinical checks, and the percentage of the sample that met the ICD‐11 diagnostic requirements for PGD fell from 13.6% to 10.2%, representing a 24.8% reduction in cases. The value and potential broader application of clinical checks are discussed.
Large Language Models in Otolaryngology Residency Admissions: A Random Sampling Analysis
Authors: Halagur Akash S. , Balakrishnan Karthik , Ayoub Noel
Published: August 2024

Objectives

To investigate potential demographic bias in artificial intelligence (AI)‐based simulations of otolaryngology, residency selection committee (RSC) members tasked with selecting one applicant among candidates with varied racial, gender, and sexual orientations.

Methods

This study employed random sampling of simulated RSC member decisions using a novel Application Programming Interface (API) to virtually connect to OpenAI's Generative Pre‐Trained Transformers (GPT‐4 and GPT‐4o). Simulated RSC members with diverse demographics were tasked with ranking to match 1 applicant among 10 with varied racial, gender, and sexual orientations. All applicants had identical qualifications; only demographics of the applicants and RSC members were varied for each simulation. Each RSC simulation ran 1000 times. Chi‐square tests analyzed differences across categorical variables. GPT‐4o simulations additionally requested a rationale for each decision.

Results

Simulated RSCs consistently showed racial, gender, and sexual orientation bias. Most applicant pairwise comparisons showed statistical significance (p < 0.05). White and Black RSCs exhibited greatest preference for applicants sharing their own demographic characteristics, favoring White and Black female applicants, respectively, over others (all pairwise p < 0.001). Asian male applicants consistently received lowest selection rates. Male RSCs favored White male and female applicants, while female RSCs preferred LGBTQIA+, White and Black female applicants (all p < 0.05). High socioeconomic status (SES) RSCs favored White female and LGBTQIA+ applicants, while low SES RSCs favored Black female and LGBTQIA+ applicants over others (all p < 0.001). Results from the newest iteration of the LLM, ChatGPT‐4o, indicated evolved selection preferences favoring Black female and LGBTQIA+ applicants across all RSCs, with the rationale of prioritizing inclusivity given in >95% of such decisions.

Conclusion

Utilizing publicly available LLMs to aid in otolaryngology residency selection may introduce significant racial, gender, and sexual orientation bias. Potential for significant and evolving LLM bias should be appreciated and minimized to promote a diverse and representative field of future otolaryngologists in alignment with current workforce data.

Level of Evidence

N/A Laryngoscope, 2024
Soil redistribution rates along the forested and cultivated steep hillslope in the mid‐Himalayas using fallout—137Cs and RUSLE model
Authors: David Raj Anu , Kumar Suresh , Sooryamol K. R. , Kalambukattu Justin George , Kumara Sudeep
Published: August 2024

Soil erosion emerged as a significant land degradation concern, causing serious threat to soil ecosystem services in the Himalayan region. The complex topography of the region poses limitations to the measurement of soil redistribution (erosion, transport, and deposition) rate, necessitated for the effective soil conservation planning. The study investigated soil redistribution processes over a typical complex hillslope of the mid‐Himalayan region using the fallout radionuclide (FRN)—137Cs method and Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE) model. It involved a comparison of 137Cs measured soil redistribution and the RUSLE model estimates, aiming to assess its correspondence over the complex hillslope. Analysis of 137Cs measurements revealed the highest net erosion (−13.2 t ha−1 year−1) at the upper hillslope with a convex shape, while sediment deposition occurred at the lower (36.9 t ha−1 year−1) and valley (32.5 t ha−1 year−1) hillslope positions with a concave shape. The RUSLE model also estimated the highest erosion on the upper hillslope (−12.3 t ha−1 year−1) but the lowest erosion at the lower (−0.88 t ha−1 year−1) and valley (−0.32 t ha−1 year−1) hillslopes, that differed with the 137Cs method. The 137Cs method provided soil redistribution rate (either net erosion or deposition), whereas RUSLE model only showed the gross erosion rate. Thus, the estimate from RUSLE corresponds only to hillslope positions with a convex and straight shapes. The distribution of 137Cs measurements has clearly revealed the influence of slope shape and steepness in governing erosion and deposition processes at the hillslope positions with convex and concave slope shapes, respectively. In addition, terraces effectively trap sediments from upslope areas. Investigation of soil erosion using 137Cs measurement along with the RUSLE model helped to validate erosion and deposition processes over the hillslope positions. The study will help to suggest suitable conservation measures for the various hillslope positions in the mid‐Himalayan region.
The global cost of international commitments on land restoration
Authors: Verhoeven Dewy , Berkhout Ezra , Sewell Annelies , van der Esch Stefan
Published: August 2024

Land restoration and sustainable land management projects have now been proposed for up to a billion hectares globally, responding to continuous land degradation processes. But, a lack of reliable cost estimates hinders implementation, which results in a high perceived risk of restoration investments. This study addresses this gap, using cost data from 243 restoration projects from multiple sources to estimate the cost ranges for different types of restoration more precisely. The analysis shows median restoration costs vary from 185 $US/ha to 3012 $US/ha depending on the restoration measure, implying current global land restoration commitment cost 0.04%–0.27% of annual global GDP to implement. Since the majority of these commitments are made by developing countries, international cost‐sharing mechanisms, through climate or private finance, are required to move from goal setting to implementation.
Variation of soil pore structure and predication of the related functions following land‐use conversion identified by multi‐scale X‐ray tomography
Authors: Yu Xiuling , Qi Dongmei , Zhou Hongxiang , Lu Shenggao
Published: August 2024

Land‐use conversion profoundly influences the soil pore structure, consequently modifying the soil functions. Investigating the variation of multiscale soil pore structure and their associated functions following land‐use change is critical for evaluating land management strategies. However, this topic has not yet been extensively explored in recent studies. In this study, the pore structure of soil following land‐use conversion was quantitatively investigated by multiscale X‐ray tomography. Intact soil aggregates and undisturbed soil cores were collected from paddy fields (PF) and from vegetable fields were converted from paddy fields for 5 years (VF‐5), 13 years (VF‐13), and 20 years (VF‐20), respectively. Results revealed that the connected porosity of both aggregates and soil cores was significantly increased after land‐use conversion. The isolated porosity of soil aggregates increased, while, conversely, it decreased for soil cores. The variance in pore structure was attributed to the development of new pores, including channels created by vegetable roots, fissures, earthworm holes, and packing pores resulting from the decomposition of soil organic matter and the rearrangement of soil particles. The altered pore structure influenced the soil exchangeability and reservation ability. For aggregates, the isolated porosity of PF and VF‐5 accounted for over 70% of the total imaged porosity. These aggregates displayed a larger water and carbon reservation ability, but limited exchangeability of air, water, and nutrients. The isolated porosity of VF‐13 and VF‐20 aggregates accounted for approximately 50% of the total imaged porosity, suggesting they could effectively balance the exchange and storage of air, water, and nutrients. As for soil cores, isolated pores became negligible (<0.2%) following land‐use conversion, leading to the emergence of a drainable pore system suitable for vegetable plantation. These findings offer insights into the development of pore structures and the prediction of soil function variations at multiple scales, both of which are crucial for optimizing soil management protocols.
General Characterization of Intelligent Metasurfaces with Graph Coupling Network
Authors: Wu Ouling , Qian Chao , Fan Zhixiang , Zhu Xiaoyue , Chen Hongsheng
Published: August 2024

Intelligent metasurfaces, as the next‐generation of metasurfaces, have emerged as a versatile artificial electromagnetic (EM) medium capable of adaptively manipulating wave‐matter interactions, especially in the construction of EM space integration and the analogy of wave‐based neural networks. However, current computational landscape for intelligent metasurfaces relies either on time‐consuming full‐wave numerical simulations with excessive computational complexity or on application‐limited physical models that are difficult to consider the coupling effects. Here, a universal graph neural network (GNN) framework is introduced, incorporating the elusive coupling effects inside metasurfaces, enabling rapid and precise characterization with arbitrary‐large size. This framework exhibits exceptional compatibility with physical models, thereby significantly expanding the realm of potential design scenarios. By harnessing the principles of diffraction theory and near‐to‐far transformation algorithms, highly accurate modeling of the scattered fields emanating from metasurfaces is achieved. Through microwave experiments on intelligent metasurfaces, the efficacy of GNN in real‐world scenarios is effectively demonstrated. The utilization of topological strategies to characterize intelligent metasurfaces marks a major leap toward the next‐generation metasurfaces, promising transformative advancements across various applications.
Enhanced Thermally Stability and Broadened Emission for Gd3Ga5O12:Cr3+ Phosphors via Si3N4 Substitution
Authors: Chen Sunyuezi , Lu Ziwei , Liu Yongfu , Zhang Liangliang , Zhang Jiahua , Jiang Jun
Published: August 2024

Far‐red (FR) and near‐infrared (NIR) spectroscopy technologies have attracted extensive attention. How to obtain luminescent materials suitable to FR‐NIR phosphor‐converted light‐emitting diodes (pc‐LEDs) is a crucial challenge. Herein, a Si3N4‐substitution strategy is employed to regulate the luminescence of Gd3Ga5O12:Cr3+ (GGG:Cr3+) phosphors. The bandwidth of GGG:Cr3+ is 95 nm, and then it is broadened to 116 nm due to the Si3N4‐substitution. Furthermore, at 423 K the thermal stability is enhanced to 98.7% of that at room temperature, which is higher than the reported 92.7%@423 K for the Si3N4‐free sample. The intensity of the optimal specimen is elevated 2.9 times compared with the Si3N4‐free sample sintered at the same condition. The FR pc‐LED is manufactured by using the optimized sample, and its FR output power is 47.1 mW with a conversion efficiency of 15.9% driven by 100 mA. This work paves a new way to design high‐performance NIR phosphors.
Evaluating Pacific salmon swimming behavior in the aft end of a pelagic trawl to inform bycatch reduction device design and use
Authors: Bryan David R. , Yochum Noëlle , Wilson Katherine C.
Published: August 2024

Objective

Although the bycatch of Pacific salmon Oncorhynchus spp. is relatively low in the Walleye Pollock Gadus chalcogrammus and Pacific Hake Merluccius productus pelagic trawl fisheries, different efforts are employed to reduce it, including the use of bycatch reduction devices (BRDs) that retain the targeted species and provide Pacific salmon a pathway to escape. The objective of this study was to evaluate Pacific salmon behavior inside a pelagic trawl and to determine what conditions favor the probability of a salmon moving forward in the trawl and increase their probability of escapement.

Methods

We placed a video camera at the entrance of the cod end and recorded the behaviors of Pacific salmon as they passed by. The timing of the forward movement Pacific salmon in relation to fishing operations and the correlations between forward movement of Pacific salmon and vessel speed over ground, water flow rate, ambient light levels, and abundance of Walleye Pollock were examined.

Result

Of the 2969 Pacific salmon observed, 71% were moving aft toward the cod end, 24% were observed moving forward, and 5% were moving aft then forward or forward then aft. The percentage (77%) and rate (0.86 fish per minute) of forward-moving Pacific salmon was greatest once the trawl doors were back on the vessel and water flow within the trawl was reduced. Speed over ground and Walleye Pollock abundance were negatively correlated with forward movement of Pacific salmon. Only 6.5% of Pacific salmon that were in the cod end when fishing ended were able to move forward before the cod end was on the vessel.

Conclusion

Pacific salmon can move forward in the trawl throughout fishing operations and haulback, but the percentage increases as the speed over ground and water flow inside the trawl is reduced. The low percentage of Pacific salmon that move forward after fishing has ended suggests that Pacific salmon escapement at the end of a tow is relatively low and suggests that BRD design should focus on stimulating escapement at the first BRD encounter.
Patterns of entheseal changes and other activity markers in an ancient population from Neolithic to Bronze Age (8000–2300 BP) at the Houtaomuga site, Northeast China with special references to climate changes, subsistence strategies, sex‐based labor divisions, and regional variations
Authors: Zou Ruiqi , Xing Haiyang , Sun Xiaofan , Kong Shuxin , Wang Lixin , Zhang Zhe , Zhang Quanchao , Wang Qian
Published: August 2024

Entheseal changes are skeletal markers, which are often used in the reconstruction of physical activities. This study investigated patterns of entheseal changes and other activity markers, such as squatting facets and degerative signs at joints in a mortuary population of the Houtaomuga site, Northeast China. Comparisons were conducted between the early period (Neolithic to Early Bronze Age, 8000–2500 BP) and the late period (Late Bronze Age, 2300 BP). Differences between two sexes of the late period were also compared. The results demonstrated that the frequency and severity of entheseal changes and other activity markers differed between early and late populations and between males and females of the late population suggesting subsistence strategies changes and new patterns of sex‐based divisions of labor. This is the first attempt to assess activity changes in fisher–hunter–gatherer populations over a long period of time from ancient China. Results reveal that though the Houtaomuga population maintained the primary subsistence modes of fishing, hunting, and gathering, their entheses elucidate gradual shifts along with reduced activity stress due to sedentary life and intensified sex‐based divisions of labor and the advent of craft specializations, which was likely influenced by climate changes.
Comparative evaluation of solid particle erosion resistance in milled carbon fiber‐reinforced basalt fiber epoxy composites: Impact of abrasive shape variations
Authors: Ürgün Satılmış , Özsoy Mehmet İskender , Bora Mustafa Özgür , Fidan Sinan
Published: August 2024

The solid particle erosive wear performance of basalt fiber‐reinforced epoxy composites with the incorporation of different percentages of milled carbon fiber fillers (0–10 wt%) is evaluated under various abrasive materials (garnet and ceramic beads) and impingement angles (30° and 90°). Erosion tests have been carried out following ASTM G76 standards using a factorial design method. The data indicate that the erosion rates, crater depths, and areas of craters are all strongly dependent on erodent material type and milled carbon fiber filler ratio. Compared to ceramic beads, garnet abrasives caused severe erosion, with erosion rates reaching approximately 500 mg/g at a 90° impingement angle without milled carbon fiber fillers. Erosion by both abrasives was significantly reduced by the introduction of milled carbon fiber fillers into the basalt fiber composites, with the erosion rate decreasing to around 100 mg/g with 3 wt% milled carbon fiber fillers. The maximum crater depth was also influenced; garnet abrasives produced craters as deep as 1000 μm without fillers at 90°, which was reduced to 451 μm with 3 wt% milled carbon fiber fillers when ceramic beads were used. Of the three factors for the erosion rate and crater depth, inorganic erodent material and ratio of carbon fiber filler were prominent, but the impingement angle effect was much smaller. Among the three factors for the erosion rate and crater depth, erodent material and carbon fiber filler ratio were prominent, while the impingement angle effect was significantly less.

Highlights

The garnet abrasives cause more severe erosion than ceramic beads at 90°.

Composites exhibit optimal erosion resistance with 3–5 wt% milled carbon fiber fillers.

Filler ratio and erodent material type significantly impact erosion rates and depths.

Factors affecting wear performance identified using factorial design and ANOVA.
PVSails: Harnessing Innovation With Vertical Bifacial PV Modules in Floating Photovoltaic Systems
Authors: Tina Giuseppe Marco , Osama Amr , Cazzaniga Raniero , Cicu Monica , Hancock Jon , Howlin Eamon , Rosa‐Clot Marco , Rosa‐Clot Paolo
Published: August 2024

In the context of offshore floating photovoltaic systems (FPVs), this paper explores the use of bifacial photovoltaic modules installed in the vertical position. The energy harvested from the rear face of vertically configured bifacial PV modules compensates for the reduced production at the front face of the module, and this demonstrates the potential of bifacial technology for offshore applications. By comparison, most existing horizontally tilted bifacial FPV systems gain only a small benefit in production from the rear face of the module due to the minimum radiation received, and what also must be taken into consideration is the negative effect of significant soiling owing to the low tilt angle of the PV modules. Hence, to overcome these drawbacks, we have developed the innovative “PVSail” concept, which explores the deployment of vertical FPV systems on floats, buoys, or poles/minipiles. Floating vertical bifacial PV systems (VBPVs) have huge potential to harness all the energy generation capabilities enhance by reflected light, especially from snow‐covered surfaces in northern regions. Our analysis considers a patented mooring and vertical PV system that allows the VBPV structure to align with the prevailing wind direction to shed wind loads, and our numerical analysis explores the potential of VBPV applied to Catania in Italy and Nigg Bay in the United Kingdom. Our analysis study has revealed that across an azimuth angle range (0°–180°), vertical bifacial modules experience roughly a 9% decrease in energy yield at Catania and about a 5% energy yield gain in higher latitude regions like Nigg Bay. Additionally, increasing the latitude of the installation location of VBPV reduces the energy yield sensitivity to the orientation, that is, azimuth angle. The PVSail concept opens the door to novel deployment possibilities in offshore renewable energy projects.
Phosphorus fertiliser is associated with reduced grass grub (Costelytra giveni) fitness in Epichloë endophyte‐infected meadow fescue and perennial ryegrass
Authors: Hewitt Katrin G. , Hofmann Rainer W. , Ball Olivier J. , Luo Dongwen , Finch Sarah C. , Bryant Racheal H. , Popay Alison J.
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND

Fertiliser applications are well‐established tools in pasture‐based agricultural landscapes. This study focuses on the impact of phosphorus (P) fertiliser on grass grub (Costelytra giveni), a major pasture pest. This research investigates the interplay between P, plant growth, and grass grub fitness in Epichloë endophyte‐infected perennial ryegrass (Epichloë sp. LpTG‐3 strain AR37) and meadow fescue infected with E. uncinata (strain MaxR; AR1017), alongside their endophyte‐free counterparts. In a glasshouse trial, plants were grown in P‐enriched soil with varying Olsen P levels (9, 18, 28 or 78 mg L−1), and grass grubs were introduced. Their survival and weight gain, and plant performance were measured. In a bioassay, grass grubs were placed in specimen vials with P‐enriched soils (Olsen P levels 9, 18, 28 and 78 mg L−1) and provided with identical plant material to assess their diet consumption and weight gain.

RESULTS

In the glasshouse trial, results highlighted a notable decrease in the survival of grass grub on plants infected with MaxR endophyte, but not with AR37, as well as increasing soil Olsen P levels in both plant species. While grass grub decreased plant performance at the low Olsen P level (9 mg L−1), this effect diminished with increasing P. Likewise, results from the bioassay showed a decrease in diet consumption with increasing soil Olsen P levels. In both trials increasing Olsen P levels correlated with diminished grass grub performance, revealing a nuanced relationship between soil fertility and pest dynamics.

CONCLUSION

The study underscores the pivotal role of selected Epichloë endophyte–grass associations in mitigating grass grub damage across varying phosphorus levels. This study highlights the potential to integrate P applications for sustainable pest control against grass grub. Further field trials are required to validate these findings. © 2024 The Author(s). Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Assessing natural and human‐induced river corridor changes using object‐based image analysis (Orljava River, Croatia)
Authors: Pavlek Katarina , Gašparović Mateo , Poeppl Ronald E.
Published: August 2024

This study employs object‐based image analysis to investigate land cover dynamics and channel changes in the managed corridor of the Orljava River following anthropogenic vegetation removal and a flood event. By classifying RGB and near‐infrared (NIR) images from the decade 2011–2021, five land cover classes within the river corridor were mapped: water, bare soil, sparse vegetation, dense vegetation, and shadows. A digital surface model generated from the images was used to differentiate between bare river channel units (river sediments) and bare soil in the floodplain, as well as to identify high vegetation, while agricultural land was classified manually. The study identified two main phases of river corridor changes, driven by a significant flood event in 2014. In the period 2011–2014, which includes the flood event, a substantial increase in the areas covered by water and river sediments was observed. The most notable decrease was in the bare soil class (90%), which primarily covered riverbanks and adjacent areas in 2011 after vegetation removal. In addition, the formation of large in‐channel bars due to sediment accumulation and significant channel migration was recorded. In the second phase (2014–2021), lower discharges facilitated gradual channel recovery, characterized by channel narrowing and an increase in dense and high vegetation. This study demonstrates the high reliability of object‐based classification in mapping river corridor units using optical photogrammetric data. Furthermore, it highlights the deficiencies in inadequate river management practices that led to considerable bank erosion and a loss of agricultural land.
How science teachers deal with STEM education: An explorative study from the lens of curriculum ideology
Authors: Tan Lihua , Wei Bing
Published: August 2024

To gain a holistic understanding of how science teachers dealt with STEM education, this study explored two science teachers’ perceptions and practices at primary schools via the lens of curriculum ideology. By examining their perceptions and practices from six essential aspects (i.e., aim, content, student, teaching, learning, and assessment), we aim to provide deeper insights into what STEM education visions they have, why they promote it, and how they enact it in primary school settings. Combining deductive and inductive approaches, we analyzed data collected from multiple sources, including two rounds of semi‐structured interviews, field notes of school visits, artifact like students’ works, and documents like lesson plans and classroom videotapes. Results showed that the two teachers dealt with STEM education differently: one focused on teaching how to think and work as scientists or engineers with a scholar‐academic orientation, whereas the other was devoted to laying a foundation for students’ development and future lives with a learner‐centered orientation. Based on different value stances and aims, two teachers conceptualize STEM education and translate it into school courses and instructional activities differently, leading to varying degrees of curriculum integration, distinct cognitions of worthwhile content, and different teaching orientations. These findings have implications for researchers and practitioners to comprehend and reflect on how teachers deal with the issues involved in STEM education in school settings. The identified tensions and harmonies between different orientations provide insights into coordinating different values and interests to promote STEM education.
Greening Mexican manufacturing: Examining the role of SMEs in environmental preservation through green business strategies, eco‐innovation, and corporate social responsibility
Authors: Esparza Ma. Mónica Gloria Clara Castillo , Madrid‐Guijarro Antonia , Maldonado‐Guzman Gonzalo
Published: August 2024

The productive activities of manufacturing companies cause severe damage to the environment. In this sense, this research focuses on the actions carried out by implementing a green business strategy (GBS) and its influence on eco‐innovation and environmental performance in Mexican manufacturing small and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs) to care for and protect the environment. The model introduces eco‐innovation and corporate social responsibility (CSR) as mediating and moderating factors in the relationship between GBS and environmental performance. An empirical study was carried out on 299 SMEs. Data analysis was made using structural equations and the Smart PLS‐SEM program. The findings confirm (1) the positive influence that GBS exerts on eco‐innovation practices and environmental performance in this kind of companies, identifying a significant mediating effect linked to eco‐innovation, and (2) a positive moderating effect linked to CSR on the relationship between GBS and environmental performance. GBS is a powerful tool that works synergistically with eco‐innovation and CSR to protect the environment from management. This research is a basis for managers and government officials to adopt eco‐innovation and CSR strategically through the GBS, as it guarantees environmental protection in the manufacturing industry.
First‐Principle Calculation of the Hydrogen Adsorption and Diffusion Characteristics at an Ni3Al/Ni Interface
Authors: Du Xiaoming , Li Siyu , Li Fu , Zhu Guosong
Published: August 2024

The occurrence of hydrogen embrittlement often leads to significant fracturing in materials. Thus, a comprehensive understanding of the interactions of hydrogen and its effects on material properties is essential. In this study, first‐principle calculations based on density functional theory are conducted to investigate the adsorption and diffusion characteristics of hydrogen at the Ni/Ni3Al(γ/γ') interface of a Ni‐based single‐crystal superalloy. The results show that hydrogen can stably adsorb onto the γ/γ′ interface, nearby octahedral interstitial sites, and tetrahedral interstitial sites in the γ‐phase. Analysis of the density of states and charge density confirms that the hydrogen atoms formed covalent bonds and ionic bonds with nearby Al atoms. A transition state structure search based on linear synchronous transit (LST) and quadratic synchronous transit (QST) models is utilized to calculate the diffusion paths and energy barriers of the hydrogen atoms between the stable adsorption sites near the interface. In addition, the permeation characteristics of hydrogen atoms at the interface are analyzed. Furthermore, it is confirmed that hydrogen atoms entering the matrix from the interface preferentially occupy the positions of the regular octahedral interstitial sites, diffuse towards adjacent regular 6Ni octahedral interstitial sites through the inclined octahedral interstitial sites between the atomic layers, and converge at the interface.
Principal quantile treatment effect estimation using principal scores
Authors: Mizuma Kotaro , Hashimoto Takamasa , Sakui Sho , Kuroda Shingo
Published: August 2024

Intercurrent events and estimands play a key role in defining the treatment effects of interest precisely. Sometimes the median or other quantiles of outcomes in a principal stratum according to potential occurrence of intercurrent events are of interest in randomized clinical trials. Naïve analyses such as those based on the observed occurrence of the intercurrent events lead to biased results. Therefore, we propose principal quantile treatment effect estimators that can nonparametrically estimate the distribution of potential outcomes by principal score weighting without relying on the exclusion restriction assumption. Our simulation studies show that the proposed method works in situations where the median or quantiles may be regarded as the preferred population‐level summary over the mean. We illustrate our proposed method by using data from a randomized controlled trial conducted on patients with nonerosive reflux disease.
Real-World Experience of Using Dupilumab and Jak Inhibitors to Manage Pruritus in Epidermolysis Bullosa Pruriginosa
Authors: Hou Ping-Chen , Aala Wilson , Tu Wei-Ting , McGrath John A. , Hsu Chao-Kai
Published: August 2024

Epidermolysis bullosa pruriginosa (EBP) is a form of dystrophic EB associated with severe pruritus and has skewed Th2 inflammation. Our study suggests that JAK inhibitors may offer superior efficacy compared to dupilumab in treating EBP. Moreover, JAK inhibitors downregulate JAK-STAT signalling and Th1/2 cell differentiation in lesional skin while not in peripheral blood.
Energy‐Saving Ambient Electrosynthesis of Nylon‐6 Precursor Coupled with Electrocatalytic Upcycling of Polyethylene Terephthalate
Authors: Sheng Youwei , Yang Ruidong , Xie Jiangwei , Yu Hongjie , Deng Kai , Wang Ziqiang , Wang Hongjing , Wang Liang , Xu You
Published: August 2024

Cyclohexanone oxime is an important intermediate in the chemical industry, especially for the manufacture of nylon‐6. The traditional cyclohexanone oxime production strongly relies on cyclohexanone‐hydroxylamine and cyclohexanone ammoxidation processes, which require harsh reaction conditions and consume considerable amounts of energy. Herein, direct electrosynthesis of cyclohexanone oxime is reported from environmental pollutants nitrite and cyclohexanone with almost 100% yield by using low‐cost Cu2Se nanosheets as electrocatalysts. Combination of in situ Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and theoretical calculations verifies that the p–d orbital hybridization between Cu and Se elements could synergistically optimize the surface electronic structure and enable improved adsorption and formation of the key active N intermediate NH2OH*, thereby enhancing cyclohexanone/nitrite‐to‐cyclohexanone oxime conversion over the Cu2Se nanosheets. Based on these, an efficient asymmetric co‐electrolysis system is further demonstrated by coupling cyclohexanone/nitrite‐to‐cyclohexanone oxime conversion with the upcycling of polyethylene terephthalate plastics, achieveing energy‐saving simultaneously production of value‐added products (cyclohexanone oxime and glycolic acid).
Hierarchical Nanostructures Constructed by Soft Epitaxial Self‐Assembly of Organic‐Inorganic Hybrid Giant Amphiphiles
Authors: Kang Dong‐Gue , Kook Yun‐Bae , Kim In‐Soo , Rim Minwoo , Ko Hyeyoon , Hsu Chih‐Hao , Wang Chien‐Lung , Ryu Ki‐Hyun , Kim Dae‐Yoon , Jeong Kwang‐Un
Published: August 2024

2D nanomaterials with ångström‐scale thicknesses offer a unique platform for confining molecules at an unprecedentedly small scale, presenting novel opportunities for modulating material properties and probing microscopic phenomena. In this study, mesogen‐tethered polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS) amphiphiles with varying numbers of mesogenic tails to systematically influence molecular self‐assembly and the architecture of the ensuing supramolecular structures, are synthesized. These organic‐inorganic hybrid amphiphiles facilitate precise spatial arrangement and directional alignment of the primary molecular units within highly ordered supramolecular structures. The correlation between molecular design and the formation of superlattices through comprehensive structural analyses, incorporating molecular thermodynamics and kinetics, is explored. The distinct intermolecular interactions of the POSS core and the mesogenic tails drive the preferential formation of a 2D inorganic sublattice while simultaneously guiding the hierarchical assembly of organic lamellae via soft epitaxy. The findings reveal the intricate balance between shape, size, and interaction strengths of the inorganic and organic components, and how these factors collectively influence the structural hierarchy of the superstructures, which consist of multiple sublattices. By controlling this unique molecular behavior, it is possible to modulate or maximize the anisotropy of optical, mechanical, and electrical properties at the sub‐nanometer scale for nanotechnology applications.
In Situ Formation of SnSe2/SnSe Vertical Heterostructures toward Polarization Selectable Band Alignments
Authors: Ge Rui , Liu Beituo , Sui Fengrui , Zheng Yufan , Yu Yilun , Wang Kaiqi , Qi Ruijuan , Huang Rong , Yue Fangyu , Chu Junhao , Duan Chun‐Gang
Published: August 2024

2D van der Waals (vdW) layered semiconductor vertical heterostructures with controllable band alignment are highly desired for nanodevice applications including photodetection and photovoltaics. However, current 2D vdW heterostructures are mainly obtained via mechanical exfoliation and stacking process, intrinsically limiting the yield and reproducibility, hardly achieving large‐area with specific orientation. Here, large‐area vdW‐epitaxial SnSe2/SnSe heterostructures are obtained by annealing layered SnSe. These in situ Raman analyses reveal the optimized annealing conditions for the phase transition of SnSe to SnSe2. The spherical aberration‐corrected transmission electron microscopy investigations demonstrate that layered SnSe2 epitaxially forms on SnSe surface with atomically sharp interface and specific orientation. Optical characterizations and theoretical calculations reveal valley polarization of the heterostructures that originate from SnSe, suggesting a naturally adjustable band alignment between type‐II and type‐III, only relying on the polarization angle of incident lights. This work not only offers a unique and accessible approach to obtaining large‐area SnSe2/SnSe heterostructures with new insight into the formation mechanism of vdW heterostructures, but also opens the intriguing optical applications based on valleytronic nanoheterostructures.