bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Uniform Tendency of Surface Dipoles Across Silicon Doping Levels and Types of H‐Terminated Surfaces
Authors: Harilal Sherina , Sadhujan Sumesh , Zhang Kefan , Shalabny Awad , Buonocore Francesco , Ferrucci Barbara , Giusepponi Simone , Celino Massimo , Bashouti Muhammad Y.
Published: May 2024

The termination of surface‐dangling bonds on silicon through hydrogen atoms, also known as Si–H, can achieve chemical passivation and reduce surface states in the electronic bandgap, thus altering electronic properties. Through a comprehensive study of doping levels (1014–1020 cm−3) and types (n and p), a consistent surface dipole trend induced by Si–H termination is discovered. It is achieved by redistributing surface charges and establishing thermal equilibrium with the chemical bond. To resolve this, the surface work function, surface electron affinity, and the energy difference between the valence band and the Fermi level are measured by employing the Kelvin probe, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and photoelectron yield spectroscopy methods. These findings are further validated through ab initio simulations. This finding has immense implications not only for eliminating electronic defects at semiconductor interfaces, which is crucial in microelectronics but also for developing and engineering hybrid interfaces and heterojunctions with controlled electronic properties.
Is union membership associated with higher wages of U.S. farmworkers? An empirical analysis using the National Agricultural Workers Survey
Authors: Fisher Monica , Reimer Jeffrey J. , Lewin Paul A.
Published: May 2024

Using National Agricultural Workers Survey (NAWS) data, we examine which farmworkers are unionized and whether their status differs systematically from non‐unionized farmworkers. Logit results indicate farmworkers are less likely to be unionized if they are Black, unauthorized to work in the U.S., less educated, have English proficiency, work for farm labor contractors (versus growers), and cultivate field (vs. horticulture) crops. Blinder‐Oaxaca decomposition reveals that union members earn $0.87 more in hourly wages, are 4.8% points more likely to receive a bonus, and are 15.6% points more likely to have employer‐provided health insurance than comparable non‐unionized farmworkers.
Experiment and Computational Study on Pd‐Catalyzed MIA‐Directed Ortho‐C−H Alkynlation of Phenylalanine
Authors: Zhang Fujie , Liang Yu , Liu Dong‐Hui , Liu Peng‐Yu , Huang Liangliang , He Yu‐Peng , Yu Fang
Published: May 2024

The direct ortho‐alkynylation of substituted phenylalanine has been successfully achieved through methoxyiminoacyl (MIA)‐mediated Pd‐catalyzed C−H functionalization. This innovative protocol showcases the ability to apply a diverse range of phenylalanine substrates, resulting in the efficient synthesis of alkynylation benzylamine derivatives with notable effectiveness. Computational investigations further revealed that the fluoride ion enhances the electropositivity of Pd(IV) and the interaction between C1 and C2 within the transition state of the reductive elimination, which significantly expedites the reductive elimination step in the alkynylation process.
Electroencephalographic Correlates of Clinical Severity in the Natural history study of RTT and Related Disorders
Authors: Saby Joni N. , Mulcahey Patrick J. , Benke Timothy A. , Peters Sarika U. , Standridge Shannon M. , Lieberman David N. , Key Alexandra P. , Percy Alan K. , Nelson Charles A. , Roberts Timothy P. L. , Neul Jeffrey L. , Marsh Eric D.
Published: May 2024

Objective

This study was undertaken to characterize quantitative electroencephalographic (EEG) features in participants from the Natural history study of RTT and Related Disorders and to assess the potential for these features to act as objective measures of cortical function for Rett syndrome (RTT).

Methods

EEG amplitude and power features were derived from the resting EEG of 60 females with RTT (median age = 10.7 years) and 26 neurotypical females (median age = 10.6 years). Analyses focus on group differences and within the RTT group, associations between the EEG parameters and clinical severity. For a subset of participants (n = 20), follow‐up data were available for assessing the reproducibility of the results and the stability in the parameters over 1 year.

Results

Compared to neurotypical participants, participants with RTT had greater amplitude variability and greater low‐frequency activity as reflected by greater delta power, more negative 1/f slope, and lower theta/delta, alpha/delta, beta/delta, alpha/theta, and beta/theta ratios. Greater delta power, more negative 1/f slope, and lower power ratios were associated with greater severity. Analyses of year 1 data replicated the associations between 1/f slope and power ratios and clinical severity and demonstrated good within‐subject consistency in these measures.

Interpretation

Overall, group comparisons reflected a greater predominance of lower versus higher frequency activity in participants with RTT, which is consistent with prior clinical interpretations of resting EEG in this population. The observed associations between the EEG power measures and clinical assessments and the repeatability of these measures underscore the potential for EEG to provide an objective measure of cortical function and clinical severity for RTT. ANN NEUROL 2024;96:175–186
Multi‐Responsive Peptide‐Based Ultrathin Nanosheets Prepared by a Horizontal Monolayer Assembly
Authors: He Yanmei , Zhu Xiaohong , Wang Lei , Zhang Yue , Bai Chen , Wu Dongdong
Published: May 2024

In this study, peptide‐based self‐assembled nanosheets with a thickness of approximately 1 nm were prepared using a hierarchical covalent physical fabrication strategy. The covalent alternating polymerization of helical peptide E3 with an azobenzene (AZO) structure yielded copolymers CoP(E3‐AZO), which physically self‐assembled into ultrathin nanosheets in an unanticipated two‐dimensional horizontal monolayer arrangement. This special monolayer arrangement enabled the thickness of the nanosheets to be equal to the cross‐sectional diameter of a single linear copolymer, which is a rare phenomenon. Molecular dynamics simulations suggested that the synergistic effect of multiple molecular interactions drives the self‐assembly of CoP(E3‐AZO) into nanosheets and that various methods, including phototreatment, pH adjustment, the addition of additives, and introduction of cosolvents, can alter the molecular interactions and modulate the self‐assembly of CoP(E3‐AZO), yielding diverse nanostructures. Remarkably, the ultrathin nanosheets selectively inhibited cancer cells at certain concentrations.
Progressive Optimization of Lanthanide Nanoparticle Scintillators for Enhanced Triple‐Activated Radioluminescence Imaging
Authors: Li Jingchao , Li Yun , Ming Jiang , Zeng Xinying , Wang Tingting , Yang Hongzhang , Liu Hongwu , An Yibo , Zhang Xun , Zhuang Rongqiang , Su Xinhui , Guo Zhide , Zhang Xianzhong
Published: May 2024

Lanthanide nanoparticle (LnNP) scintillators exhibit huge potential in achieving radionuclide‐activated luminescence (radioluminescence, RL). However, their structure–activity relationship remains largely unexplored. Herein, progressive optimization of LnNP scintillators is presented to unveil their structure‐dependent RL property and enhance their RL output efficiency. Benefiting from the favorable host matrix and the luminescence‐protective effect of core–shell engineering, NaGdF4 : 15 %Eu@NaLuF4 nanoparticle scintillators with tailored structures emerged as the top candidates. Living imaging experiments based on optimal LnNP scintillators validated the feasibility of laser‐free continuous RL activated by clinical radiopharmaceuticals for tumor multiplex visualization. This research provides unprecedented insights into the rational design of LnNP scintillators, which would enable efficient energy conversion from Cerenkov luminescence, γ‐radiation, and β‐electrons into visible photon signals, thus establishing a robust nanotechnology‐aided approach for tumor‐directed radio‐phototheranostics.
Asymmetric 1,2‐Migration at Vicinal Tetrasubstituted Stereocenters Constructed from α‐Keto Imines
Authors: Karan Ganesh , Sahu Samrat , Metya Abhisek , Maji Modhu Sudan
Published: May 2024

A carbonyl‐assisted asymmetric 1,2‐migratory allylation through in situ generation of vicinal tetrasubstituted stereocenters is reported to access enantiopure α‐amino ketones and amino alcohols with excellent yields and diastereoselectivities. In a remarkable divergence, despite higher steric hindrance, the allylation exclusively occurs on ketones over imines in the first step, followed by a face‐selective 1,2‐allyl transfer, thus highlighting an exciting interplay between two distinct electrophiles. The methodology distinguishes itself through its adaptability to gram‐scale synthesis, showcasing broad functional‐group tolerance and stereodivergence. Density functional theory (DFT) analysis led to a deeper understanding of its selectivity and mechanistic framework. Highlighting its transformative potential, the method was applied to the total synthesis of hapalindole alkaloids.
Oxygen Vacancies Trigger Rapid Charge Transport Channels at the Engineered Interface of S‐Scheme Heterojunction for Boosting Photocatalytic Performance
Authors: Zu Di , Ying Yiran , Wei Qi , Xiong Pei , Ahmed Mortuza Saleque , Lin Zezhou , Li Molly Meng‐Jung , Li Mingjie , Xu Zhihang , Chen Gao , Bai Liqi , She Sixuan , Tsang Yuen Hong , Huang Haitao
Published: May 2024

Although oxygen vacancies (Ovs) have been intensively studied in single semiconductor photocatalysts, exploration of intrinsic mechanisms and in‐depth understanding of Ovs in S‐scheme heterojunction photocatalysts are still limited. Herein, a novel S‐scheme photocatalyst made from WO3‐Ov/In2S3 with Ovs at the heterointerface is rationally designed. The microscopic environment and local electronic structure of the S‐scheme heterointerface are well optimized by Ovs. Femtosecond transient absorption spectroscopy (fs‐TAS) reveals that Ovs trigger additional charge movement routes and therefore increase charge separation efficiency. In addition, Ovs have a synergistic effect on the thermodynamic and kinetic parameters of S‐scheme photocatalysts. As a result, the optimal photocatalytic performance is significantly improved, surpassing that of single component WO3‐Ov and In2S3 (by 35.5 and 3.9 times, respectively), as well as WO3/In2S3 heterojunction. This work provides new insight into regulating the photogenerated carrier dynamics at the heterointerface and also helps design highly efficient S‐scheme photocatalysts.
Ultrafast catalytic reduction of organic pollutants using ternary zinc–copper–nickel layered double hydroxide
Authors: Pathak Jigyasa , Singh Poonam
Published: May 2024

Water is the utmost essential commodity for the support of life process in animals. In recent decades, rapid industrialization and uncontrolled agricultural practices have led to increased level of toxic pollutants in groundwater, including organic pollutants (dyes, nitroarene compounds, antibiotics, etc.), inorganic pollutants (heavy metals, nanoparticles, etc.), and pesticides, posing a serious threat to human health and the environment. Although various technologies such as adsorption, photocatalysis, reverse osmosis, filtration, sedimentation, flocculation, and precipitation are available for the elimination of toxic pollutants from wastewater, issues such as their cost and efficacy limit their usage. Recently, catalysis has been found to be the most effective approach since it exhibits significant capability to eliminate almost all the pollutants and offers the benefit of simple design and low initial cost. In the present study, ternary zinc–copper–nickel layered double hydroxide (ZnCuNi‐LDH) synthesized using facile acid hydrolysis method was employed as an efficacious heterogeneous catalyst for the reduction of NACs (para‐nitrophenol and para‐nitroaniline) and degradation of organic azo dyes (methyl orange, amaranth, and brilliant black). ZnCuNi‐LDH exhibited superior catalytic activity for the reduction of all five model pollutants with reduction efficiency of more than 95% within a short time span of 5 min. Therefore, keeping in view the layered structure, high specific surface area, and remarkable catalytic performance, ZnCuNi‐LDH holds immense potential for the large‐scale catalytic degradation of refractory pollutants.
Palladium‐catalyzed domino reaction for the synthesis of benzo‐cyclohepta‐quinolinone analogues from Cedrus deodara oil
Authors: Yamini  , Kumar Ashish , Mehara Pushkar , Das Pralay
Published: May 2024

First‐time vinyl bromide‐substituted benzocycloheptene compound has been explored as a precursor for the synthesis of benzo‐cyclohepta‐quinolinone (BCQ) analogues following a domino reaction. The vinyl bromide‐substituted benzocycloheptene was synthesized from himachalenes, extracted from Cedrus deodara oil. The reaction proceeds through C‐C bond formation followed by palladium catalyzed C‐N cross‐coupling and dehydrogenative aromatization in a consecutive and atom‐economic approach for BCQ analogues synthesis. Moreover, the present methodology is applicable for various substituted β‐enaminones with good to moderate yield.
Harnessing Croconaine Organic Photosensitizers for a Milder Surface‐Mediated Transfection
Authors: Ferdinandus  , Tan Wen Ling Lenice , Tan Jie Ren , Lee Hiang Kwee , Zhu Qiang , Ye Enyi , Lee Chi‐Lik Ken
Published: May 2024

Polydopamine‐based materials, notably Polydopamine‐polyethyleneimine (PDA‐PEI), have gained considerable interest for surface‐mediated transfection. However, the high laser power density required to achieve high transfection efficiency poses a significant challenge in preserving cell viability. An organic photosensitizer CRO32TMI was developed to improve the photothermal conversion capability of PDA‐PEI. The modified PDA‐PEI‐CRO32TMI exhibited remarkable photothermal and photostability properties upon NIR irradiation, enabling it to achieve better transfection efficiency at lower laser power density as compared to the traditional solution or lipid‐based transfection methods.
A fast, reliable, low‐cost, and efficient xylan extraction for xylooligosaccharides production
Authors: Kumari Kajal , Nagar Sushil , Goyal Sakshi , Maan Sonu , Kumar Vinod , Kharor Neeraj , Sindhu Meena , Kumar Vinay
Published: May 2024

A fast, reliable, low‐cost, and efficient method for the recovery of xylan from agro‐residue materials is needed to improve the use of xylan in industrial processes. Xylan was extracted from two agrowastes (corncobs and wheat bran) using a cost‐effective alkali extraction method. The characteristic band patterns and bending vibrations associated with hemicellulose and beta glycoside linkage could be seen in the corncob‐extracted xylan (CCEx) and wheatbran‐extracted xylan (WBEx). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis showed that the extracted xylans consisted of aggregated and nonaggregated particles with irregular morphology and rough surfaces. Particle‐size analysis displayed average sizes of 205.6, 210.8, and 794.2 nm for commercial beechwood xylan (Bx), CCEx, and WBEx, respectively. Alkali extraction was performed with different concentrations of NaOH, from 5% to 20%, with a solid–liquid ratio of 1:20. It was found that 82.90 and 76.77% of xylan were extracted from corncob and wheat bran, respectively, which represents a higher yield obtained in a shorter duration in comparison with studies in the literature. The enzymatic hydrolysis of wheat bran and corncob that used 250 IU/mL of Enterobacter hormaechie KS1 xylanase yielded 334.38 and 162.35 mg/g of xylooligosaccharides. Their properties were studied and were found to be very similar to those of commercial xylan. They could reduce costs if applied in industry.
A simple yet effective H2S‐activated fluorogenic probe for precise imaging of hepatitis and arthritis in situ
Authors: Liang Weier , Bian Yongning , Samanta Animesh , Chen Xueqian , Yu Xiaohe , Zheng Yichen , Gao Xueyun , Su Dongdong
Published: May 2024

Hepatitis and arthritis are prevalent inflammatory diseases, and the utilization of fluorogenic probes incorporating hydrogen sulfide (H2S) as a crucial mediator of inflammation presents significant opportunities for early detection. However, the poor in vivo biodistribution and limited targeted efficacy of molecule probes for inflammation imaging severely impede their ability to differentiate the extent of inflammation and provide real‐time monitoring of inflammatory levels. Therefore, we developed a highly efficient H2S‐activated near‐infrared (NIR) fluorogenic probe (hCy‐DNP) for real‐time tracking and capturing fluctuations in H2S levels within inflammatory lesions. hCy‐DNP demonstrates an exceptionally sensitive fluorescence response to H2S expression, enabling specific differentiation between various levels of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) ‐stimulated early hepatitis models in situ, while also facilitating visual monitoring for diagnosis and efficacy evaluation of arthritis. Therefore, hCy‐DNP offers an innovative tool for exploring early diagnosis and evaluating treatment effectiveness across diverse inflammatory diseases.
Client deception in therapy is associated with worse therapeutic relationships and perceived therapeutic outcomes
Authors: Hart Christian L. , Barnett Mykala , Curtis Drew A.
Published: May 2024

Objectives

In psychotherapy, clients and therapists work together to forge a path towards better mental health. Key to this process is genuine and honest communication. However, much previous research suggests that clients are not always fully truthful with their therapists. In this study, we make a preliminary examination of the relationship between client deception in therapy, the quality of the therapeutic relationship and therapeutic outcomes.

Methods

Participants who had been involved in psychotherapy completed a variety of measures that assessed their use of dishonesty in therapy. They also completed measures of the quality of the client–therapist relationship and measures of their perceived therapeutic outcomes. We hypothesised that client dishonesty would negatively correlate with the perceived quality of the therapeutic relationship and the therapeutic outcomes. Furthermore, we predicted that the quality of the therapeutic relationship would mediate the relationship between client dishonesty and perceived therapeutic outcomes.

Results

The results of correlation and mediation analyses supported these hypotheses. Client dishonesty was associated with poorer therapeutic relationships and worse perceived therapeutic outcomes. Additionally, therapeutic relationship quality partially mediated the relationship between client dishonesty and therapeutic outcomes.

Conclusions

This initial study provides important tentative insights into the possible negative correlates of client dishonesty in the therapeutic environment.
The Role of Lysozyme in the Formation of Bioinspired Silicon Dioxide
Authors: Macchiagodena Marina , Fragai Marco , Gallo Angelo , Pagliai Marco , Ravera Enrico
Published: May 2024

Several organisms are able to polycondensate tetraoxosilicic(IV) acid to form silicon(IV) dioxide using polycationic molecules. According to an earlier mechanistic proposal, these molecules undergo a phase separation and recent experimental evidence appears to confirm this model. At the same time, polycationic proteins like lysozyme can also promote polycondensation of silicon(IV) dioxide, and they do so under conditions that are not compatible with liquid‐liquid phase separation. In this manuscript we investigate this conundrum by molecular simulations.
Embryology of the fat‐tailed dunnart (Sminthopsis crassicaudata): A marsupial model for comparative mammalian developmental and evolutionary biology
Authors: Newton Axel H. , Hutchison Jennifer C. , Farley Ella R. , Scicluna Emily L. , Youngson Neil A. , Liu Jun , Menzies Brandon R. , Hildebrandt Thomas B. , Lawrence Ben M. , Sutherland Angus H. W. , Potter David L. , Tarulli Gerard A. , Selwood Lynne , Frankenberg Stephen , Ord Sara , Pask Andrew J.
Published: May 2024

Background

Marsupials are a diverse and unique group of mammals, but remain underutilized in developmental biology studies, hindering our understanding of mammalian diversity. This study focuses on establishing the fat‐tailed dunnart (Sminthopsis crassicaudata) as an emerging laboratory model, providing reproductive monitoring methods and a detailed atlas of its embryonic development.

Results

We monitored the reproductive cycles of female dunnarts and established methods to confirm pregnancy and generate timed embryos. With this, we characterized dunnart embryo development from cleavage to birth, and provided detailed descriptions of its organogenesis and heterochronic growth patterns. Drawing stage‐matched comparisons with other species, we highlight the dunnarts accelerated craniofacial and limb development, characteristic of marsupials.

Conclusions

The fat‐tailed dunnart is an exceptional marsupial model for developmental studies, where our detailed practices for reproductive monitoring and embryo collection enhance its accessibility in other laboratories. The accelerated developmental patterns observed in the Dunnart provide a valuable system for investigating molecular mechanisms underlying heterochrony. This study not only contributes to our understanding of marsupial development but also equips the scientific community with new resources for addressing biodiversity challenges and developing effective conservation strategies in marsupials.
‘rtry’: An R package to support plant trait data preprocessing
Authors: Lam Olee Hoi Ying , Kattge Jens , Tautenhahn Susanne , Boenisch Gerhard , Kovach Kyle R. , Townsend Philip A.
Published: May 2024

Plant trait data are used to quantify how plants respond to environmental factors and can act as indicators of ecosystem function. Measured trait values are influenced by genetics, trade‐offs, competition, environmental conditions, and phenology. These interacting effects on traits are poorly characterized across taxa, and for many traits, measurement protocols are not standardized. As a result, ancillary information about growth and measurement conditions can be highly variable, requiring a flexible data structure. In 2007, the TRY initiative was founded as an integrated database of plant trait data, including ancillary attributes relevant to understanding and interpreting the trait values. The TRY database now integrates around 700 original and collective datasets and has become a central resource of plant trait data. These data are provided in a generic long‐table format, where a unique identifier links different trait records and ancillary data measured on the same entity. Due to the high number of trait records, plant taxa, and types of traits and ancillary data released from the TRY database, data preprocessing is necessary but not straightforward. Here, we present the ‘rtry’ R package, specifically designed to support plant trait data exploration and filtering. By integrating a subset of existing R functions essential for preprocessing, ‘rtry’ avoids the need for users to navigate the extensive R ecosystem and provides the functions under a consistent syntax. ‘rtry’ is therefore easy to use even for beginners in R. Notably, ‘rtry’ does not support data retrieval or analysis; rather, it focuses on the preprocessing tasks to optimize data quality. While ‘rtry’ primarily targets TRY data, its utility extends to data from other sources, such as the National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON). The ‘rtry’ package is available on the Comprehensive R Archive Network (CRAN; https://cran.r‐project.org/package=rtry) and the GitHub Wiki (https://github.com/MPI‐BGC‐Functional‐Biogeography/rtry/wiki) along with comprehensive documentation and vignettes describing detailed data preprocessing workflows.
Driving mechanisms and hydro‐chemical variation for assessing salt‐induced weathering of sandstone in grotto relics
Authors: Wang Junxia , Yan Hongbin , Ren Weizhong
Published: May 2024

Salt weathering is considered as one of the most damaging processes acting on cultural heritage sites and salt crystallization significantly contributes to the deterioration of natural sandstone in grotto relics. A laboratory partial immersion experiment was carried out to elucidate how humidity influences the salt‐induced weathering in grotto relics. Field environmental observations at the Yungang Grottoes were conducted to evaluate the differences between experimental endeavours and field observations. Superficial salt accumulation was characterized by hydro‐chemical and quantitative atomistic analysis. It revealed the co‐existence of calcium sulphate and magnesium sulphate, with a Ca/Mg molar ratio of 0.27 at RHam and 4.13–18.15 at a constant RH. An average increase of 165 mg/L in Na+ concentration and 120.7 mg/L in Mg2+ concentration in the groundwater was detected after immersion, which was attributed to the dissolution of the sandstone rock. The reduction of 322.5 mg/L in the SO42− concentration in the groundwater after partial immersion shows that capillary forces influence the migration of SO42− from the immersion solution. Calcium sulphate and magnesium sulphate accumulation with a Ca/Mg molar ratio of 0.03–0.17 in the field environment is strongly correlated with the occurrence of salt efflorescence. The upward transport of soluble salt was driven by capillary forces after partial immersion in the groundwater collected from the Yungang Grottoes. It then migrated from the interior to the exterior of the sandstone specimen due to evaporation. Salt efflorescence formed on the upper exposed stone close to the capillary fringe owing to the combined effects of condensation, hygroscopicity and evaporation. These processes were driven by wetting–drying and dissolution–crystallization cycles in response to fluctuating environmental conditions. These results contribute to a better understanding the mechanism of salt‐induced weathering and provide a basis for future conservation to mitigate the harmful impact of salts in heritage sites.
A generalized detection framework for covert timing channels based on perceptual hashing
Authors: Zhuang Xiaolong , Chen Yonghong , Tian Hui
Published: May 2024

Network covert channels use network resources to transmit data covertly, and their existence will seriously threaten network security. Therefore, an effective method is needed to prevent and detect them. Current network covert timing channel detection methods often incorporate machine learning methods in order to achieve generalized detection, but they consume a large amount of computational resources. In this paper, we propose a generalized detection framework for covert channels based on perceptual hashing without relying on machine learning methods. And we propose a one‐dimensional data feature descriptor for feature extraction of perceptual hash for the data characteristics of covert timing channels. We first generate the hash sequence of the corresponding channel to get the average hash, which is used for comparison in the test phase. The experimental results show that the feature descriptor can capture the feature differences of one‐dimensional data well. When compared to machine learning methods, this perceptual hashing algorithms enable faster traffic detection. Meanwhile, our method is able to detect the effectiveness with the smallest coverage window compared with the latest solutions. Moreover, it exhibits robustness in jitter network environment.
Basophil allergen threshold sensitivity to casein (casein‐specific CD‐sens) predicts allergic reactions at a milk challenge in most but not all patients
Authors: Røisgård Solveig , Nopp Anna , Lindam Anna ,   SWITCH study group, Nilsson Caroline A. , West Christina E.
Published: May 2024

Background

The basophil activation test is an emerging clinical tool in the diagnosis of cow's milk allergy (CMA). The aim was to assess the association between the basophil allergen threshold sensitivity to the major milk protein casein (casein‐specific CD‐sens), the levels of milk‐ and casein‐specific Immunoglobulin E antibodies (IgE‐ab), and the severity of allergic reactions at milk challenges.

Methods

We enrolled 34 patients aged 5–15 (median 9) years who underwent a double‐blind placebo‐controlled milk‐challenge (DBPCMC) as screening before inclusion in an oral immunotherapy study for CMA. The severity of the allergic reaction at the DBPCMC was graded using Sampson's severity score. Venous blood was drawn before the DBPCMC. Milk‐ and casein‐specific IgE‐ab were analyzed. Following in vitro stimulation of basophils with casein, casein‐specific CD‐sens, was determined.

Results

Thirty‐three patients completed the DBPCMC. There were strong correlations between casein‐specific CD‐sens and IgE‐ab to milk (rs = 0.682, p < .001), and between casein‐specific CD‐sens and IgE‐ab to casein (rs = 0.823, p < .001). There was a correlation between the severity of the allergic reaction and casein‐specific CD‐sens level (rs = 0.395, p = .041) and an inverse correlation between casein‐specific CD‐sens level and the cumulative dose of milk protein to which the patient reacted at the DBPCMC (rs = −0.418, p = .027). Among the 30 patients with an allergic reaction at the DBPCMC, 67% had positive casein‐specific CD‐sens, 23% had negative casein‐specific CD‐sens, and 10% were declared non‐responders.

Conclusion

Two thirds of those reacting at the DBPMC had positive casein‐specific CD‐sens, but reactions also occurred despite negative casein‐specific CD‐sens. The association between casein‐specific CD‐sens and the severity of the allergic reaction and cumulative dose of milk protein, respectively, was moderate.
Diagnostic utility of contrast‐enhanced computed tomography for ectopic pregnancy
Authors: Iizuka Takashi , Yoshida Kotaro , Yamazaki Rena , Matsuoka Ayumi , Fujiwara Hiroshi
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Contrast‐enhanced computed tomography (CECT) is an emergent diagnostic imaging modality to identify the bleeding site and survey the abdominal cavity. The diagnostic utility of CECT for ectopic pregnancy (EP) has not been well‐investigated. The objective of this study was to evaluate the characteristics of CECT findings in patients with EP and extract specific findings that could contribute to the identification of implantation sites.

Method

We conducted a retrospective study, reviewing suspected EP cases between April 2015 and March 2018 in our hospital. Clinical symptoms, blood test results, transvaginal sonography findings, and surgical and pathologic findings from the medical records were assessed. CECT images were evaluated by a certified radiologist and gynecologist retrospectively in consensus. The following were selected as positive findings for specific determination of the ectopic implantation site: the ectopic gestational sac, lateralization of the hemoperitoneum around the adnexa on either side, and extravascular leakage of the contrast agent outside the uterine cavity.

Results

CECT was performed in 41 women with an EP. The ectopic implantation site was detectable on CECT in 90.2% (37/41), whereas it was noted in 70.0% (32/41) on transvaginal ultrasonography (TVS). Of nine patients with an EP with an undetectable implantation site on TVS, six were positive for the specific determination of the ectopic implantation site on CECT.

Conclusion

CECT has the potential to predict ectopic implantation sites with high‐level sensitivity. As CECT is an urgent diagnostic imaging tool to be used in an emergent setting, it may be a good option for EP diagnosis when the availability of magnetic resonance imaging is limited.
Pollinator diversity, pollination services, and conservation in agroecosystems: A mini‐review on the successes and challenges in China
Authors: Shi Xiaoyu , Huang Dunyuan , Xu Huanli , Ren Zongxin , Lu Yanhui , An Jiandong , Zou Yi , Liu Yunhui , Ouyang Fang , Chester Douglas , Mu Junpeng , He Chunling , Luo A'rong , Cheng Rui , Zhou Qingsong , Niu Zeqing , Zhou Xin , Zhao Lei , Martini Massimo , Ma Changsheng , Cheng Wenda , Chen Xia , Orr Michael , Peng Wenjun , Zhu Chaodong
Published: May 2024

Pollinators provide important pollination services for crops around the world. In China, numerous studies have been conducted on pollinators within agroecosystems, yet a comprehensive review of such research remains to be completed. This study discusses the existing knowledge of pollinator diversity in Chinese agroecosystems, examines the provision of pollination services, and identifies key achievements and limitations. We propose a series of conservation and management actions to promote pollinator health and ecosystem services in these agroecosystems: (1) long‐term monitoring of pollinator populations, (2) designing agricultural landscapes that are conducive to pollinators, and (3) implementing microscale habitat modifications to improve conditions for pollinators.
Effect of pharmacist‐led interventions on hypertension‐related knowledge, medication adherence, and blood pressure control: A multi‐center, randomized, controlled trial in Vietnam
Authors: Huynh Bon Huu , Vo Ha Thi , Pham Anh Thi Kim , Tragulpiankit Pramote , Huynh Nam Huu , Nguyen Nhut Lien , Nguyen Lien Thi , Hong Pham Tham , Nathisuwan Surakit
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Hypertension is the single most important leading cause of morbidity and mortality in the Vietnamese population and remains poorly controlled by the current conventional care model.

Objectives

To evaluate whether pharmacist‐led interventions can improve hypertension knowledge, medication adherence, and blood pressure (BP) control in Vietnamese patients with hypertension.

Methods

A multi‐center, randomized, controlled trial was conducted in three hospitals in Vietnam from October 2021 to May 2022. The educational interventions included direct counseling, printed material, and educational videos for smartphones. The primary outcome was hypertension knowledge assessed by the Hypertension Knowledge‐Level Scale (HK–LS). Secondary outcomes were medication adherence as assessed by the Morisky Green Levine Adherence Scale (MGL) and changes in systolic (SBP) and diastolic BP (DBP) at week 12.

Results

A total of 381 patients were included in the study, with 190 and 191 patients in the intervention and control groups, respectively. At week 12, patients in the intervention group had a significantly higher mean HK–LS than the control group (18.97 ± standard deviation [SD] 2.10 vs. 14.98 ± SD 3.55, respectively; p < 0.001). Significantly higher medication adherence was observed in the intervention group than in the control group (MGL score of 3.76 ± 0.52 vs. 3.20 ± 0.87, respectively; p < 0.001). Patients in the intervention group had a significant reduction in mean SBP/DBP (−6.15/−2.58 mmHg) compared with the control group (−0.98/−0.92 mmHg; p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Pharmacist‐led interventions resulted in a significant improvement in disease knowledge, medication adherence, and BP control in the Vietnamese context of practice and health system.
AMF symbiosis drives the rhizosphere microbiome to synergistically improve herbage growth in saline–alkaline soils
Authors: Zhang Zhechao , Ding Shengli , Diao Fengwei , Jia Bingbing , Shi Zhongqi , Guo Wei
Published: May 2024

Plant–microbe interactions are essential in shaping plant performance and overall ecosystem functioning. However, the regulatory mechanisms underlying plant–microbe interactions mediated by mycorrhizal symbiosis in saline–alkaline soils are still not fully understood. Here, we aimed to clarify the synergistic regulatory mechanism through which arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) symbiosis drives the rhizosphere microbiome to improve perennial herbage growth in saline–alkaline soils and evaluate phytoremediation efficiency. This study revealed that Funneliformis mosseae inoculation (i) strongly promoted the growth of all three herbage species (with values ranging from 21.62% to 233.33%), Na+ accumulation in plants (with values ranging from 24.63% to 188.89%), and decreased soil electrical conductivity (with values ranging from 7.68% to 12.87%), potentially suggesting improved phytoremediation efficiency with AMF symbiosis; (ii) increased nutritional content and decreased C:P and N:P ratios (with values ranging from 27.20% to 92.87%) and improved K+/Na+ and P/Na+ ratios (with values ranging from 2.60% to 302.96%); (iii) increased the abundance of some beneficial bacterial taxa and strengthened the significant strong relationships among most of these bacteria and plant biomass, ion homeostasis as well as stoichiometric ratio constants, and AMF inoculation treatments also consisted the higher proportion of differential genera significantly correlated with these plant factors as well as plant nutrient contents, potentially reflecting that AMF mediated the enrichment process of beneficial bacterial taxa and may strength functional interaction between plant and bacterial taxa, which may be importance for the enhancement of saline–alkaline tolerance of plants; and (iv) enhanced stability of the rhizosphere bacterial community and complexity of interaction networks, and the related indictors also established significant correlations with plant/soil factors, suggesting that the improvement of stability and functional complexity driven by AMF may also be beneficial for enhancing phytoremediation efficiency. These findings indicate that AMF inoculation plays its own beneficial role by simultaneously activating the potential of beneficial rhizosphere bacterial taxa and that their synergistic interaction is more beneficial for enhancing plant growth in salt‐affected soils and enhancing phytoremediation efficiency. This study helps to elucidate the underlying mechanisms through which AMF‐mediated rhizosphere bacterial community improve plant growth and tolerance to saline–alkaline stresses, and provides evidence that effective ecological restoration of saline–alkaline degraded grasslands can be achieved via the use of mycorrhizal symbiosis herbage.
That's not what my app says: Perceptions of accuracy, consistency, and trust in weather apps
Authors: Vaughn Cole , Sherman‐Morris Kathleen , Brown Michael , Gutter Barrett
Published: May 2024

The usage of weather apps for forecast information has increased dramatically over the last 10–15 years. Ensuring that consumers value and trust weather apps is important to the integrity of weather forecasting. Public perception of weather app forecast accuracy and consistency undergirds the apps' value and trustworthiness. With app forecasts being interpreted solely by the app user, misunderstanding and consequent false expectations could jeopardize the public's perception of accuracy and consistency. Furthermore, weather apps often offer excessively—and potentially unrealistically—detailed forecasts on time and spatial scales, extending far into the future without sufficient disclaimers regarding the confidence level associated with such detailed forecasts. A survey of the public found perceived app accuracy and consistency to be positively correlated with the trust in an app. Participants indicated that they take at least modest consideration of uncertainty and spatial variability when assessing specific and longer range forecasts. On average, participants had low to moderate confidence in forecasts beyond 10 days, and a significant majority did not perceive a precipitation forecast as inaccurate, even when no rain occurred at their location, as long as it rained nearby. We tested for misinterpretation using a common expression of uncertainty in weather apps, namely probability of precipitation (PoP). A majority of participants made a correct interpretation of the two PoP values given, although, depending on the percentage, some misinterpreted the values as indicating precipitation intensity, totals, or duration. Overall, these findings offer encouragement for a society heavily reliant on weather apps while also encouraging more research on weather information interpretation.
A systematic study on linear thermal expansion coefficient of metals based on interferometric measurement with Fresnel bimirror
Authors: Lu Sifan , Zhao Wenyu , Lin Jia , Zhao Xiaorui , Xu Ruoyu , Bai Jin , Sun Chunyan
Published: May 2024

Linear thermal expansion coefficient, which is vital for measuring the thermal expansion characteristics of metals, has been attracting considerable attention globally. Herein, a novel design based on Fresnel bimirror has been developed. In this design, when the upper end of the object to be measured comes in contact with a tilted double‐sided mirror, the temperature rises and intersection angle of the Fresnel bimirror decreases. Meanwhile, interference fringe spacing becomes narrower, while the number of fringes increases. An imaging system based on a digital microscope and smartphone is also incorporated in this design, which records the changes in the interference fringes. Then, using a self‐programmed software, the linear thermal expansion coefficients of Cu, Fe, and Al samples are determined at elevated temperatures as 17.85 ± 0.23 × 10−6/°C (), 11.8 ± 0.09 × 10−6/°C (), and 23.34 ±0.16 × 10−6/°C (), respectively, with a relative error of less than 1.6%. A cooling process is also designed, and the average value of the linear thermal expansion coefficient of metal samples during heating and cooling conditions is determined. The measurement results obtained via the finite‐method simulation demonstrate the feasibility and reliability of the system. Overall, this study provides a new idea for measuring the linear thermal expansion coefficient of metals.
AAPM Task Group Report 267: A joint AAPM GEC‐ESTRO report on biophysical models and tools for the planning and evaluation of brachytherapy
Authors: Chen Zhe (Jay) , Li X. Allen , Brenner David J. , Hellebust Taran P. , Hoskin Peter , Joiner Michael C. , Kirisits Christian , Nath Ravinder , Rivard Mark J. , Thomadsen Bruce R. , Zaider Marco
Published: May 2024

Brachytherapy utilizes a multitude of radioactive sources and treatment techniques that often exhibit widely different spatial and temporal dose delivery patterns. Biophysical models, capable of modeling the key interacting effects of dose delivery patterns with the underlying cellular processes of the irradiated tissues, can be a potentially useful tool for elucidating the radiobiological effects of complex brachytherapy dose delivery patterns and for comparing their relative clinical effectiveness. While the biophysical models have been used largely in research settings by experts, it has also been used increasingly by clinical medical physicists over the last two decades. A good understanding of the potentials and limitations of the biophysical models and their intended use is critically important in the widespread use of these models. To facilitate meaningful and consistent use of biophysical models in brachytherapy, Task Group 267 (TG‐267) was formed jointly with the American Association of Physics in Medicine (AAPM) and The Groupe Européen de Curiethérapie and the European Society for Radiotherapy & Oncology (GEC‐ESTRO) to review the existing biophysical models, model parameters, and their use in selected brachytherapy modalities and to develop practice guidelines for clinical medical physicists regarding the selection, use, and interpretation of biophysical models. The report provides an overview of the clinical background and the rationale for the development of biophysical models in radiation oncology and, particularly, in brachytherapy; a summary of the results of literature review of the existing biophysical models that have been used in brachytherapy; a focused discussion of the applications of relevant biophysical models for five selected brachytherapy modalities; and the task group recommendations on the use, reporting, and implementation of biophysical models for brachytherapy treatment planning and evaluation. The report concludes with discussions on the challenges and opportunities in using biophysical models for brachytherapy and with an outlook for future developments
Effects of heat treatments and cross‐linking on the crystal structure and torsional properties of polyester fibers
Authors: Cao Ya‐Jing , Gai Xue‐Jie , Li Wei , Liu Hai‐Hui , Han Na , Zhang Xing‐Xiang
Published: May 2024

Artificial muscles have attracted great attention as actuators and coiled and twisted monofilament actuators are considered the most promising ones. In the present work, the torsional properties of poly(hexamethylene adipamide) (PA66), poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET), and high‐strength PET (HTPET) monofilaments were investigated. Furthermore, cross‐linked PET (CPET) monofilaments were melt‐spun by adding 1 wt% of 2‐dimethoxy‐2‐phenylacetophenone (ultraviolet (UV) initiator) and triallyl iso‐cyanurate (cross‐linking agent) in PET chips under UV radiation. The HTPET monofilaments had the highest torsional modulus of 1.1 GPa followed by the PET (0.8 GPa) and PA66 (0.6 GPa) monofilaments. Subsequently, the HTPET monofilaments were subjected to heat treatments under tension. When the heat treatment time was 10 min, the mechanical properties of the HTPET monofilaments also tended to first increase and then decrease with the rise of heat treatment temperature. The molecular arrangement and crystal structure of the HTPET monofilaments were gradually improved with the prolongation of tension heat treatment. The tensile strength and initial modulus of the HTPET monofilaments were 871.4 MPa and 15.8 GPa, respectively. The mechanical properties of the CPET monofilaments first increased and then decreased with the increase of the drawing ratio. When the drawing ratio was 10, the CPET monofilament had a tensile strength of 717.2 MPa, an initial modulus of 16.7 GPa, and a maximum torsional modulus of 1.3 GPa. Therefore, both heat treatment and cross‐linking increased the mechanical strength of the PET monofilaments. CPET and HTPET are possible to be used as artificial muscles.
Matching study design to prescribing intention: The prevalent new‐user design for studying abuse‐deterrent formulations of opioids
Authors: DiPrete Bethany L. , Oh GYeon , Moga Daniela C. , Dasgupta Nabarun , Slavova Svetla , Slade Emily , Delcher Chris , Pence Brian W. , Ranapurwala Shabbar I.
Published: May 2024

Purpose

In drug studies, research designs requiring no prior exposure to certain drug classes may restrict important populations. Since abuse‐deterrent formulations (ADF) of opioids are routinely prescribed after other opioids, choice of study design, identification of appropriate comparators, and addressing confounding by “indication” are important considerations in ADF post‐marketing studies.

Methods

In a retrospective cohort study using claims data (2006–2018) from a North Carolina private insurer [NC claims] and Merative MarketScan [MarketScan], we identified patients (18–64 years old) initiating ADF or non‐ADF extended‐release/long‐acting (ER/LA) opioids. We compared patient characteristics and described opioid treatment history between treatment groups, classifying patients as traditional (no opioid claims during prior six‐month washout period) or prevalent new users.

Results

We identified 8415 (NC claims) and 147 978 (MarketScan) ADF, and 10 114 (NC claims) and 232 028 (MarketScan) non‐ADF ER/LA opioid initiators. Most had prior opioid exposure (ranging 64%–74%), and key clinical differences included higher prevalence of recent acute or chronic pain and surgery among patients initiating ADFs compared to non‐ADF ER/LA initiators. Concurrent immediate‐release opioid prescriptions at initiation were more common in prevalent new users than traditional new users.

Conclusions

Careful consideration of the study design, comparator choice, and confounding by “indication” is crucial when examining ADF opioid use‐related outcomes.