bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of barriers to cancer screening and interventions implemented to overcome these barriers in 27 Latin American and Caribbean countries
Authors: Mosquera Isabel , Barajas Clara B. , Theriault Hannah , Benitez Majano Sara , Zhang Li , Maza Mauricio , Luciani Silvana , Carvalho Andre L. , Basu Partha
Published: April 2024

There is a gap in the understanding of the barriers to cancer screening participation and complying with downstream management in the Community of Latin American and Caribbean states (CELAC). Our study aimed to assess barriers across the cancer screening pathway from the health system perspective, and interventions in place to improve screening in CELAC. A standardized tool was used to collect information on the barriers across the screening pathway through engagement with the health authorities of 27 member states of CELAC. Barriers were organized in a framework adapted from the Tanahashi conceptual model and consisted of the following dimensions: availability of services, access (covering accessibility and affordability), acceptability, user–provider interaction, and effectiveness of services (which includes governance, protocols and guidelines, information system, and quality assurance). The tool also collected information of interventions in place, categorized in user‐directed interventions to increase demand, user‐directed interventions to increase access, provider‐directed interventions, and policy and system‐level interventions. All countries prioritized barriers related to the information systems, such as the population register not being accurate or complete (N = 19; 70.4%). All countries implemented some kind of intervention to improve cancer screening, group education being the most reported (N = 23; 85.2%). Training on screening delivery was the most referred provider‐directed intervention (N = 19; 70.4%). The study has identified several barriers to the implementation of cancer screening in the region and interventions in place to overcome some of the barriers. Further analysis is required to evaluate the effectiveness of these interventions in achieving their objectives.
The multifaceted role of macrophage mitophagy in SiO2‐induced pulmonary fibrosis: A brief review
Authors: Zhou Yu‐ting , Li Shuang , Du Shu‐ling , Zhao Jia‐hui , Cai Ya‐qiong , Zhang Zhao‐qiang
Published: April 2024

Prolonged exposure to environments with high concentrations of crystalline silica (CS) can lead to silicosis. Macrophages play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of silicosis. In the process of silicosis, silica (SiO2) invades alveolar macrophages (AMs) and induces mitophagy which usually exists in three states: normal, excessive, and/or deficiency. Different mitophagy states lead to corresponding toxic responses, including successful macrophage repair, injury, necrosis, apoptosis, and even pulmonary fibrosis. This is a complex process accompanied by various cytokines. Unfortunately, the details have not been fully systematically summarized. Therefore, it is necessary to elucidate the role of macrophage mitophagy in SiO2‐induced pulmonary fibrosis by systematic analysis on the literature reports. In this review, we first summarized the current data on the macrophage mitophagy in the development of SiO2‐induced pulmonary fibrosis. Then, we introduce the molecular mechanism on how SiO2‐induced mitophagy causes pulmonary fibrosis. Finally, we focus on introducing new therapies based on newly developed mitophagy‐inducing strategies. We conclude that macrophage mitophagy plays a multifaceted role in the progression of SiO2‐induced pulmonary fibrosis, and reprogramming the macrophage mitophagy state accordingly may be a potential means of preventing and treating pulmonary fibrosis.
A comprehensive examination of structural modifications, optical characteristics, and electrochemical analysis of magnesium‐doped dysprosium chromite
Authors: Saleemi Awais Siddique , Albaqami Munirah D. , Mohammad Saikh , Abdullah Ali , Saeed Muhammad
Published: April 2024

Background

This study focuses on the synthesis of magnesium‐doped dysprosium chromite via a sol‐gel method. The investigation aims to understand the morphological and structural properties of the synthesized nanochromates. Key techniques employed include x‐ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Raman spectroscopy.

Aims

The primary aim is to analyze the structural characteristics of MgxDy1−xCr2O4 nanoparticles with varying Mg doping concentrations (ranging from 0.2 to 0.8). Special attention is given to the crystallinity of the synthesized materials, with the goal of assessing the reliability and reproducibility of the sol‐gel synthesis method.

Methods

XRD analysis is employed to identify major diffraction peaks associated with the chromate nanoparticles, providing insights into their crystallinity. SEM imaging allows for the examination of the morphological features of the synthesized materials. Additionally, Raman spectroscopy aids in further understanding the structural properties of the nanochromates.

Results

The XRD analysis reveals average crystallite sizes for MgxDy1−xCr2O4 nanoparticles at different Mg doping concentrations. Notably, an improvement in crystalline quality is observed with an increase in Mg doping from 0.2 to 0.8, indicating a high level of control achieved in the synthesis process. Cyclic Voltammetry (CV) experiments conducted using a 1M KOH electrolyte and varying scan rates (3 mV/s to 50 mV/s) demonstrate enhanced electrochemical performance of the synthesized nanoparticles.

Conclusion

The study concludes that the sol‐gel synthesis method effectively produces MgxDy1−xCr2O4 nanoparticles with controlled morphological and structural properties. The observed improvement in crystalline quality with increasing Mg doping concentration suggests potential applications in fields such as photo‐catalysis, where enhanced crystallinity correlates with improved photo‐catalytic potential for visible light absorption.
Simultaneous removal of mixed pesticides and natural organic matter from surface waters by nitric and chlorosulfonic acid functionalized powdered activated carbon
Authors: Aykut‐Senel Betul , Ozgur Cihan , Bakirdere Sezgin , Kaplan‐Bekaroglu Sehnaz Sule , Ates Nuray
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND

Several studies have addressed the adsorption of pesticides such as alachlor, acetochlor, metolachlor and fenthion from water and wastewater, yet the interaction of these compounds with natural organic matter (NOM) complicates their effective removal owing to competitive adsorption effects. This study aims to fill this gap by exploring the efficacy of nitric acid and chlorosulfonic acid‐modified activated carbons (ACs) in removing both pesticides and NOM under realistic environmental conditions.

RESULTS

Modifications using nitric acid and chlorosulfonic acid significantly improved the pesticide removal capabilities of Norit SX F Cat (AC1) adsorbents. While both the original and chlorosulfonic acid‐modified adsorbents showed comparable efficacy in pesticide removal, nitric acid‐modified AC Puriss (AC2) adsorbents were less effective. Remarkably, a 100 mg L−1 dose of both original and modified powdered ACs (PACs) removed >98% of all four pesticides from water samples. Additionally, a lower 25 mg L−1 dose effectively achieved similar removal rates, demonstrating their utility as feasible options for water treatment.

CONCLUSION

Modifying PACs with nitric acid and chlorosulfonic acid has been proven to enhance their structural and adsorptive properties significantly. These modifications led to improved pesticide removal efficiencies, particularly with the chlorosulfonic acid‐modified PACs, which demonstrated superior performance in adsorption tests. The study also highlighted the competitive adsorption posed by low‐molecular‐weight organic substances in water, which compete with pesticides for active adsorption sites. © 2024 The Authors. Journal of Chemical Technology and Biotechnology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Experimentally elevated corticosterone increases song output and complexity in common mynas
Authors: Gaviraghi Mussoi Juliane , MacQueen Rebecca A. , Stanley Margaret C. , Cain Kristal E.
Published: April 2024

Vocalization is an important communication tool that can reflect many aspects of an individual's internal and external condition. This is especially true for birds. Previous research has shown that bird calls and songs change in response to a variety of potential stressors, although the extent and direction of the changes depend on the nature of the stressor and the environment. Circulating glucocorticoids, such as corticosterone, often increase in response to stressors and mediate some of the observed changes via alterations of the individual's physiological state. Acute elevations of corticosterone often occur as a physiological response to short‐term stressors; however, the effects of this elevation on adult vocalizations have not been well documented. Here, we experimentally elevated corticosterone at two different levels using a noninvasive method and examined the effects on the vocal communication of male and female adult common mynas (Acridotheres tristis). Corticosterone elevation temporarily increased song output and some measures of song complexity, while call output decreased. These effects were dosage dependent (higher corticosterone levels had a stronger effect), most evident 40 min after ingestion, and some vocal changes were sex‐specific. Future studies should investigate whether the changes in vocal performance due to elevated glucocorticoids have consequences for the birds' behavior, reproductive success, and survival.
The role of phenotypic plasticity and corticosterone in coping with pond drying conditions in yellow‐bellied toad (Bombina variegata, Linnaeus 1758) tadpoles
Authors: Kijanović Ana , Vukov Tanja , Mirč Marko , Mitrović Aleksandar , Prokić Marko D. , Petrović Tamara G. , Radovanović Tijana B. , Gavrilović Branka R. , Despotović Svetlana G. , Gavrić Jelena P. , Tomašević Kolarov Nataša
Published: April 2024

Amphibian larvae inhabiting temporary ponds often exhibit the capacity to accelerate development and undergo metamorphosis in challenging conditions like desiccation. However, not all species exhibit this ability, the yellow‐bellied toad (Bombina variegata) is one such example. The underlying mechanisms behind the inability to accelerate development under desiccation remain largely unexplored. The hypothalamic–pituitary–interrenal (HPI) axis and corticosterone (CORT), which act synergistically with thyroid hormone, are thought to facilitate metamorphosis in response to desiccation stress. In this study, we aimed to investigate whether modification in the HPI axis, particularly CORT levels, contributes to the absence of adaptive plasticity in B. variegata under desiccation stress. The study design included four treatments: high water level, high water level with exogenous CORT, low water level, and low water level with metyrapone (a CORT synthesis inhibitor). The main objective was to evaluate the effects of these treatments on whole‐body corticosterone levels, life history, morphological traits, and oxidative stress parameters during the prometamorphic and metamorphic climax developmental stages. While low water level had no effect on total corticosterone levels, larval period, body condition index, and metamorphic body shape, it negatively affected metamorph size, mass, and growth rate. Our findings suggest that constant exposure to desiccation stress over generations may have led to modifications in the HPI axis activity in B. variegata, resulting in adaptation to changes in water level, evident through the absence of stress response. Consequently, CORT may not be a relevant stress indicator in desiccation conditions for this species.
The correlation between smoking cumulative dose based on Brinkman Index with peak expiratory flow rate
Authors: Mulyawan Erwin , Setiawan Jessica Anastasia
Published: April 2024

Background

Indonesia is the country with the highest prevalence of smokers above 15 years old according to WHO, with a percentage of 76.2%. Smoking‐induced lung damage is characterized by inflammation, leading to the destruction of lung parenchyma and airway obstruction, ultimately worsening lung function parameters. This study aims to find correlation between cumulative dose of smoking based on Brinkman index (BI) with Peak Expiratory Flow Rate (PEFR).

Methods

This is a cross‐sectional correlative study conducted on January–March 2020. Data were collected through history taking and PEFR measured with a peak flowmeter by taking the average of three peak flowmeter measurements, each separated by a 2‐min interval. Inclusion criteria include male active smokers, aged 30 to 40 years, who have had a smoking history for at least 1 year. Exclusion criteria are as follows: uses e‐cigarretes for smoking, has a history of chronic lung diseases such as tuberculosis, pneumonia, post‐COVID‐19 syndrome, asthma, and has not smoked in the last 28 days.

Results

A total of 48 male smokers are included in this study. The mean age of participants was 35.91 years, with a history of smoking of 18.12 years, and 12.5 cigarettes smoked daily. Patients included in this study had BI classified as mild (47.91%), moderate (47.91%), and severe (4.16%). PEFR in patients was classified into green (10.41%), yellow (83.33%), and red (6.25%). Analysis showed significant negative correlation between BI and PEFR (r = −0.721; p < 0.001) suggesting that increasing Brinkman Index may lead to a decrease in PEFR.

Conclusion

Higher BI correlates with a decrease in PEFR. PEFR may prove to be useful in early detection of reduced pulmonary function. Further trials conducted on larger sample sizes and evaluating other lung function parameters are recommended.
A relation between the cube polynomials of partial cubes and the clique polynomials of their crossing graphs
Authors: Xie Yan‐Ting , Feng Yong‐De , Xu Shou‐Jun
Published: April 2024

Partial cubes are the graphs which can be embedded into hypercubes. The cube polynomial of a graph is a counting polynomial of induced hypercubes of , which is defined as , where is the number of induced ‐cubes (hypercubes of dimension ) of . The clique polynomial of is defined as , where () is the number of ‐cliques in and . Equivalently, is exactly the independence polynomial of the complement of . The crossing graph of a partial cube is the graph whose vertices are corresponding to the ‐classes of , and two ‐classes are adjacent in if and only if they cross in . In the present paper, we prove that for a partial cube , and the equality holds if and only if is a median graph. Since every graph can be represented as the crossing graph of a median graph, the above necessary‐and‐sufficient result shows that the study on the cube polynomials of median graphs can be transformed to the one on the clique polynomials of general graphs (equivalently, on the independence polynomials of their complements). In addition, we disprove the conjecture that the cube polynomials of median graphs are unimodal.
Cost‐effectiveness of maribavir versus conventional antiviral therapies for post‐transplant refractory cytomegalovirus infection with or without genotypic resistance: A US perspective
Authors: Schultz Bob G. , Kotton Camille N. , Jutlla Ginita , Ressa Riccardo , de Lacey Tam , Chowdhury Emtiyaz , Bo Tien , Fenu Elisabetta , Gelone Daniele K. , Poirrier Jean‐Etienne , Amorosi Stacey L.
Published: April 2024

This study evaluated the cost‐effectiveness of maribavir versus investigator‐assigned therapy (IAT; valganciclovir/ganciclovir, foscarnet, or cidofovir) for post‐transplant refractory cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection with or without resistance. A two‐stage Markov model was designed using data from the SOLSTICE trial (NCT02931539), real‐world multinational observational studies, and published literature. Stage 1 (0–78 weeks) comprised clinically significant CMV (csCMV), non‐clinically significant CMV (n‐csCMV), and dead states; stage 2 (78 weeks–lifetime) comprised alive and dead states. Total costs (2022 USD) and quality‐adjusted life years (QALYs) were estimated for the maribavir and IAT cohorts. An incremental cost‐effectiveness ratio was calculated to determine cost‐effectiveness against a willingness‐to‐pay threshold of $100 000/QALY. Compared with IAT, maribavir had lower costs ($139 751 vs $147 949) and greater QALYs (6.04 vs 5.83), making it cost‐saving and more cost‐effective. Maribavir had higher acquisition costs compared with IAT ($80 531 vs $65 285), but lower costs associated with administration/monitoring ($16 493 vs $27 563), adverse events (AEs) ($11 055 vs $16 114), hospitalization ($27 157 vs $33 905), and graft loss ($4516 vs $5081), thus making treatment with maribavir cost‐saving. Maribavir‐treated patients spent more time without CMV compared with IAT‐treated patients (0.85 years vs 0.68 years), leading to lower retreatment costs for maribavir (cost savings: −$42 970.80). Compared with IAT, maribavir was more cost‐effective for transplant recipients with refractory CMV, owing to better clinical efficacy and avoidance of high costs associated with administration, monitoring, AEs, and hospitalizations. These results can inform healthcare decision‐makers on the most effective use of their resources for post‐transplant refractory CMV treatment.
Meniscal allograft transplantation: A matched‐pair analysis reveals worse sport activity level but similar clinical improvement and survival in women compared to men
Authors: Romandini Iacopo , Lucidi Gian Andrea , Altovino Emanuele , Salerno Manuela , Filardo Giuseppe , Grassi Alberto , Zaffagnini Stefano
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The aim of this study was to assess how gender might affect the clinical outcome and survival of meniscal allograft transplantation (MAT).

Methods

A total of 358 patients (23.2% women, 76.8% men) were treated with fresh‐frozen nonirradiated allografts implantated arthroscopically using a single‐ or double‐tunnel technique without bone plugs and peripheral suture to the capsule with ‘all‐inside’ stitches.

Results

Patients were evaluated at baseline and 2‐year follow‐up with the Lysholm score, visual analogue scale (VAS) pain, the Knee Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) subscales and Tegner score. Women presented higher body mass index (p < 0.0005), poorer baseline VAS (p = 0.012), Lysholm score (p = 0.005), KOOS symptom (p = 0.034) and KOOS pain (p = 0.030),  Tegner score (preinjury and basal, p < 0.0001 and p = 0.002, respectively), a lower number of previous (p = 0.039) and concurrent (p = 0.001) anterior cruciate ligament reconstructions and a higher number of concurrent procedures (p = 0.032) and distal femoral osteotomies (p = 0.024). Worse results were documented in women at 2 years, with lower Lysholm score (p = 0.024) and Tegner score (p = 0.007) and a lower clinical survival rate (p = 0.03) (67.5% vs. 82.2%) in the overall patient cohort. However, the matched‐pair analysis only confirmed a lower Tegner score value at 2 years (p = 0.016), while underlying the interplay of sex, age and concomitant cartilage lesions in determining the clinical outcome. The analysis of this large series of patients affected by postmeniscectomy syndrome and treated with MAT revealed gender differences.

Conclusion

While both genders benefited from a significant improvement, the female population presents more often with older age, concomitant cartilage lesions and a lower activity level, all factors contributing towards a lower clinical success after MAT.

Level of Evidence

Level III, comparative study.
Recurrent patellar dislocation patients with high‐grade J‐sign have multiple structural bone abnormalities in the lower limbs
Authors: Wang Daofeng , Zhang Zhijun , Cao Yanwei , Song Guanyang , Zheng Tong , Di Menglinqian , Sun Jianzhong , Fu Qizhen , Wang Xuesong , Zhang Hui
Published: April 2024

Purpose

To explore the relationship between preoperative J‐sign grading and structural bone abnormalities in patients with recurrent patellar dislocation (RPD).

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted on RPD patients over 5 years. Patients were categorised based on J‐sign grade into low (J‐ and J1+), moderate (J2+) and high groups (J3+). Trochlear dysplasia (TD) and osseous structures (femoral anteversion angle [FAA], knee torsion, tibial tuberosity‐trochlear groove [TT‐TG] distance, Caton–Deschamps index) were assessed and grouped according to risk factor thresholds. The χ2 test was used to compare composition ratio differences of structural bone abnormalities among the groups.

Results

A total of 256 patients were included, with 206 (80.5%) females. The distribution of J‐sign grade was as follows: 89 knees (34.8%) of low grade, 86 moderate (33.6%) and 81 high (31.6%). Among the five structural bone abnormalities, TD was the most common with a prevalence of 78.5%, followed by increased TT‐TG at 47.4%. Excessive tibiofemoral rotation had the lowest occurrence at 28.9%. There were 173 (67.6%) patients who had two or more abnormalities, while 45 (17.6%) had four to five bony abnormalities. Among patients with any bony abnormality, the proportion of high‐grade J‐sign surpassed 40%. Patients with moderate and high‐grade J‐sign had more increased FAA and more pronounced patella alta (all p < 0.001). The proportion of excessive knee torsion and TD increased with increasing each J‐sign grade, with the more notable tendency in knee torsion (high vs. moderate vs. low‐grade: 61% vs. 22% vs 7%, p < 0.001). Furthermore, the higher J‐sign grade was also associated with more combined bony abnormalities (p < 0.001). In the high‐grade J‐sign group, 90.2% of the knees had two or more bony risk factors and 40.7% had four or more, which were significantly higher than the moderate and low‐grade J‐sign groups (40.7% vs. 11.6% vs. 2.2%, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

In patients with a high‐grade J‐sign, over 90% of the lower limbs had two or more structural bone risk factors, and more than 40% had four or more. These proportions were significantly higher compared to knees with low‐grade and moderate J‐sign. In clinical practice, when treating high‐grade patellar mal‐tracking, it is important to focus on and correct these strongly correlated abnormal bone structures.

Level of Evidence

Level III.
In‐Depth Analysis of the Complex Interactions Induced by Nanolayered Additives in PHBV Nanocomposites
Authors: Martínez‐Rubio Pablo‐Manuel , Avilés María‐Dolores , Pamies Ramón , Benítez‐Benítez Sergio‐José , Arribas Alejandro , Carrión‐Vilches Francisco‐José , Bermúdez María‐Dolores
Published: April 2024

New nanocomposites based on biopolymer poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate‐co‐3‐hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV) are processed via extrusion, using low content of calcined hydrotalcite (CHT) and cloisite 20A (C20A) as additives (3 wt%). The aim of this work is to characterize the thermal and viscoelastic response of the structures induced by the presence of the additives. Field‐emission scanning electron microscopy and laser profilometry are utilized to analyze the effect of the additives on the surface finish of extrusion filaments, detecting a smoother surface induced by additives. A lower degradation temperature is observed via thermogravimetry for composite containing CHT (PHBV+3%CHT), while such a phenomenon is not present in composite with C20A (PHBV+3%C20A). An increase in crystallinity due to the nucleating effect of additives is measured via differential scanning calorimetry. The intercalation of the biopolymer in the layered structure of the additives is observed via X‐ray diffraction, reflecting the effective interaction in the composite matrix. The viscoelastic behavior of the samples is evaluated by means of rheology and dynamic‐mechanical analysis, showing a non‐Newtonian behavior and an enhancement of the vitreous state response. All results converge to the conclusion that the incorporation of the additives induces the formation of long‐term structures that present variable sensitivity to temperature and frequency.
Localized Changes in Dentate Nucleus Shape and Magnetic Susceptibility in Friedreich Ataxia
Authors: Harding Ian H. , Nur Karim Muhammad Ikhsan , Selvadurai Louisa P. , Corben Louise A. , Delatycki Martin B. , Monti Serena , Saccà Francesco , Georgiou‐Karistianis Nellie , Cocozza Sirio , Egan Gary F.
Published: April 2024

Background

The dentate nuclei of the cerebellum are key sites of neuropathology in Friedreich ataxia (FRDA). Reduced dentate nucleus volume and increased mean magnetic susceptibility, a proxy of iron concentration, have been reported by magnetic resonance imaging studies in people with FRDA. Here, we investigate whether these changes are regionally heterogeneous.

Methods

Quantitative susceptibility mapping data were acquired from 49 people with FRDA and 46 healthy controls. The dentate nuclei were manually segmented and analyzed using three dimensional vertex‐based shape modeling and voxel‐based assessments to identify regional changes in morphometry and susceptibility, respectively.

Results

Individuals with FRDA, relative to healthy controls, showed significant bilateral surface contraction most strongly at the rostral and caudal boundaries of the dentate nuclei. The magnitude of this surface contraction correlated with disease duration, and to a lesser extent, ataxia severity. Significantly greater susceptibility was also evident in the FRDA cohort relative to controls, but was instead localized to bilateral dorsomedial areas, and also correlated with disease duration and ataxia severity.

Conclusions

Changes in the structure of the dentate nuclei in FRDA are not spatially uniform. Atrophy is greatest in areas with high gray matter density, whereas increases in susceptibility—reflecting iron concentration, demyelination, and/or gliosis—predominate in the medial white matter. These findings converge with established histological reports and indicate that regional measures of dentate nucleus substructure are more sensitive measures of disease expression than full‐structure averages. Biomarker development and therapeutic strategies that directly target the dentate nuclei, such as gene therapies, may be optimized by targeting these areas of maximal pathology. © 2024 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Tolypocladium sinense Mycelium Polysaccharide Alleviates Obesity, Lipid Metabolism Disorder, and Inflammation Caused by High Fat Diet via Improving Intestinal Barrier and Modulating Gut Microbiota
Authors: Bai Mingjian , Wang Xiaolong , Liu Dongyang , Xu Aofeng , Cheng Hao , Li Lin , Zhang Chunjing
Published: April 2024

Scope

Tolypocladium sinense is a fungus isolated from Cordyceps. Cordyceps has some medicinal value and is also a daily health care product. This study explores the preventive effects of T. sinense mycelium polysaccharide (TSMP) on high‐fat diet‐induced obesity and chronic inflammation in mice.

Methods and results

Here, the study establishes an obese mouse model induced by high‐fat diet. In this study, the mice are administered TSMP daily basis to evaluate its effect on alleviating obesity. The results show that TSMP can significantly inhibit obesity and alleviate dyslipidemia by regulating the expression of lipid metabolism‐related genes such as liver kinase B1 (LKB1), phosphorylated AMP‐activated protein kinase (pAMPK), peroxisome proliferator activated receptor α (PPARα), fatty acid synthase (FAS), and hydroxymethylglutaryl‐CoA reductase (HMGCR) in the liver. TSMP can increase the protein expression of zona occludens‐1 (ZO‐1), Occludin, and Claudin‐1 in the colon, improve the intestinal barrier dysfunction, and reduce the level of serum LPS, thereby reducing the inflammatory response. 16S rDNA sequencing shows that TSMP alters the intestinal microbiota by increasing the relative abundance of Akkermansia, Lactobacillus, and Prevotellaceae_NK3B31_group, while decreasing the relative abundance of Faecalibaculum.

Conclusion

The findings show that TSMP can inhibit obesity and alleviates obesity‐related lipid metabolism disorders, inflammatory responses, and oxidative stress by modulating the gut microbiota and improving intestinal barrier.
A Terahertz GaN solid‐state power amplifier on radial combining technique
Authors: Cheng Haifeng , Zhu Xiang , Du Jiayu , Wang Weibo
Published: April 2024

Terahertz (THz) bands are considered to have various anticipated applications. Output power is an important factor determining the operating distance of THz systems, but it is very challenging to achieve high output power under current solid‐state terahertz circuit technology. The paper first presents a four‐way G‐band radial combiner, which features high passive efficiency of 88% and compact size. Moreover, based on this radial combiner and in‐house fabricated gallium nitride chips, a solid‐state power amplifier prototype is further demonstrated. Measured results show that, the average saturated output power is 21.7 dBm across the 180–240 GHz band with a typical output power of 23.2 dBm at 189 GHz.
Retrospective correction of second‐order concomitant fields in 3D axial stack‐of‐spirals imaging on a high‐performance gradient system
Authors: Ajala Afis , Abad Nastaren , Foo Thomas K. F. , Lee Seung‐Kyun
Published: April 2024

Purpose

MRI using 3D stack‐of‐spirals (SoS) readout on a high‐performance gradient system is subject to strong second‐order, spatially varying concomitant fields, which can lead to signal dropout and blurring artifacts that become more significant at locations farther from the gradient isocenter. A method for compensating for second‐order concomitant fields in 3D axial SoS image reconstruction is described.

Methods

We retrospectively correct for second‐order concomitant field–induced phase error in the 3D SoS data by slice‐dependent k‐space phase compensation based on the nominal spiral readout trajectories. The effectiveness of the method was demonstrated in phantom and healthy volunteer scans in which 3D pseudo‐continuous arterial spin labeling imaging was performed with SoS fast spin‐echo readout at 3 T.

Results

Substantial reduction in blurring was observed with the proposed method. In phantom scans, blurring was reduced by about 53% at 98 mm from the gradient isocenter. In the in vivo 3D pseudo‐continuous arterial spin labeling scans, differences of up to 10% were observed at 78 mm from the isocenter, especially around the white‐matter and gray‐matter interfaces, between the corrected and uncorrected proton density images, perfusion‐weighted images, and cerebral blood flow maps.

Conclusions

The described retrospective correction method provides a means to correct erroneous phase accruals due to second‐order concomitant fields in 3D axial stack‐of‐spirals imaging.
Effects of prospective motion correction on perivascular spaces at 7T MRI evaluated using motion artifact simulation
Authors: Zhao Bingbing , Zhou Yichen , Zong Xiaopeng
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The effectiveness of prospective motion correction (PMC) is often evaluated by comparing artifacts in images acquired with and without PMC (NoPMC). However, such an approach is not applicable in clinical setting due to unavailability of NoPMC images. We aim to develop a simulation approach for demonstrating the ability of fat‐navigator‐based PMC in improving perivascular space (PVS) visibility in T2‐weighted MRI.

Methods

MRI datasets from two earlier studies were used for motion artifact simulation and evaluating PMC, including T2‐weighted NoPMC and PMC images. To simulate motion artifacts, k‐space data at motion‐perturbed positions were calculated from artifact‐free images using nonuniform Fourier transform and misplaced onto the Cartesian grid before inverse Fourier transform. The simulation's ability to reproduce motion‐induced blurring, ringing, and ghosting artifacts was evaluated using sharpness at lateral ventricle/white matter boundary, ringing artifact magnitude in the Fourier spectrum, and background noise, respectively. PVS volume fraction in white matter was employed to reflect its visibility.

Results

In simulation, sharpness, PVS volume fraction, and background noise exhibited significant negative correlations with motion score. Significant correlations were found in sharpness, ringing artifact magnitude, and PVS volume fraction between simulated and real NoPMC images (p ≤ 0.006). In contrast, such correlations were reduced and nonsignificant between simulated and real PMC images (p ≥ 0.48), suggesting reduction of motion effects with PMC.

Conclusions

The proposed simulation approach is an effective tool to study the effects of motion and PMC on PVS visibility. PMC may reduce the systematic bias of PVS volume fraction caused by motion artifacts.
Cooling the atmosphere
Authors: Wiescher Philipp , Wiescher Michael
Published: April 2024

This is a paper on experimental studies performed in the 1940s at the University of Notre Dame accelerator laboratory to investigate radiation effects on materials and also to probe the efficiency of atmospheric cooling of the fireball created by a nuclear fission device. This was a critical question to be addressed during the early phases in the development of the Manhattan project, which was again raised in the film Oppenheimer, posing the question whether “a bomb can set the atmosphere on fire.” This paper brings forth the formerly classified reaction studies performed at Notre Dame's Nuclear Science Laboratory to answer this question.
Ethnoecological perspectives on environmental stewardship: Tenets and basis of reciprocity in Gitxsan and nłeʔkepmx (Nlaka'pamux) Territories
Authors: Armstrong Chelsey Geralda , Grenz Jennifer , Zyp‐Loring Jennifer , LaFontaine Jade , Main Johnson Leslie , Turner Nancy J.
Published: April 2024

Local and Indigenous Peoples steward and protect a significant proportion of biologically diverse ecosystems globally. This fact is increasingly acknowledged by researchers and international organizations, offering both opportunities and challenges at the intersection of Indigenous and western knowledge production in the context of environmental management research and policy.

Drawing on half a century of ethnoecological research and personal experiences in Gitxsan and nłeʔkepmx Territories in the Pacific Northwest of North America, this research considers the role of reciprocity as an inherent philosophy and tenet for successful environmental stewardship.

Reciprocity is a legal responsibility and moral perspective that foregrounds many Indigenous worldviews. Such cultural drivers and obligations towards lands and biota appear to be unknown, marginalized or instrumentalized in mainstream and western science and policy.

We conclude that fundamental elements of reciprocity may not be adequately blended or braided into western environmental management frameworks. As such, alternatives to blending include acknowledging sole proprietary and self‐determining rights for Indigenous Peoples to govern and steward lands outside of western infrastructures and value systems.

This study raises critical questions about the feasibility of reconciling reciprocity with western environmental management practices and regulations. It explores the implications for Indigenous rights and sovereignty, and climate change mitigation. By addressing these complex issues, we contribute to ongoing discourse on the integration of Indigenous and western knowledge in environmental stewardship research, and the ethical, historical and cultural challenges that come with it.

Read the freePlain Language Summaryfor this article on the Journal blog.
Investigations on toughening and self‐healing performance of plain woven composites with mendable polymer stitches
Authors: Li Yaolei , Tie Ying , Li Cheng
Published: April 2024

This paper investigates toughening and self‐healing properties of plain woven composite structure with poly[ethylene‐co‐methacrylic acid] (EMAA) stitches. Firstly, the cantilever beam specimens with different stitched spacing were performed to determine inter‐laminar fracture toughness. Subsequently, the finite element models of EMAA stitched cantilever beam was established to predict the toughening effects based on nonlinear spring and cohesive zone model (CZM). The force‐displacement responds of experimental and simulation results show excellent correlation. Finally, the toughening and healing mechanism of the stitched plain woven structure were explored. Compared with the original specimen, the EMAA stitched structure shows an excellent toughening ability. After heating, the damaged structure was healed through pressure deliver mechanism to restore the interlaminar fracture toughness of the composite.

Highlights

Thermoplastic EMAA filaments with self‐healing properties were sewn into the woven composite.

The EMAA stitched woven composite structure exhibits excellent interlaminar toughening and healing properties.

Finite element model combined non‐linear spring and CZM was established to predict the toughening effects.

The toughening and self‐healing mechanisms of EMAA stitched plain woven structure were revealed in detail.
Parametric appraisal and wear prediction of hybrid composites using an integrated soft computing approach
Authors: Mahapatra Sourav Kumar , Satapathy Alok
Published: April 2024

This article reports on the implementation of artificial neural network (ANN) and statistical methods to analyze and predict the erosion performance of titania (TiO2) filled ramie‐epoxy based composites. These hybrid composites are prepared by conventional hand lay‐up route and subjected to solid particle erosion tests as per Taguchi's L27 orthogonal array. The effects of different control factors on erosion rate of these composites are studied using Taguchi method. It reveals that impact velocity and filler content have significant effect on the erosion wear rate followed by other least significant factors. The individual effect of each control factor while keeping other factors constant is ascertained by performing steady state erosion experiments. Further, a computational model based on ANN is used as a tool to effectively predict the erosion rates of the composites. The results show that the predicted values are in reasonably good agreement with the experimental ones with an accuracy of 90% and relative error lying within a range of 1%–10%. Further, the trained ANN model is validated by considering the erosion rates obtained during steady state erosion process as the input parameter. The possible mechanisms causing the wear loss are identified using electron microscopy.

Highlights

Successful fabrication of titanium oxide reinforced hybrid composites.

Steady state erosion experiments are performed.

Erosion rates are predicted using ANN and compared with the experimental data.

Wear loss mechanisms are identified using electron microscopy.
Impact of Carbon Doping on Vertical Leakage Current in AlGaN‐Based Buffer Layer Grown on Silicon Substrate
Authors: Kaneko Ryoma , Yoshida Hisashi , Yoshioka Akira , Hikosaka Toshiki , Nunoue Shinya
Published: April 2024

The buffer leakage phenomena have a large effect on high‐power and fast‐switching GaN high electron mobility transistor devices. Herein, the buffer leakage mechanism in a GaN‐on‐Si substrate with AlGaN buffer layers is investigated by using samples with various carbon concentrations. Comparing the leakage current with crystallinity and impurity concentration, it is found that the vertical leakage current is dominated by both threading dislocations and bulk impurities. Increasing the carbon concentration of buffer layers suppresses leakage current in the bulk conducting regime in high electric fields but increases it in the dislocation conducting regime in low electric fields. These results indicate that the optimal carbon concentration of buffer layers depends on the target electric field.
Exploratory analysis of the accuracy of echocardiographic parameters for the assessment of right ventricular function and right ventricular–pulmonary artery coupling
Authors: Shima Hideki , Tsujino Ichizo , Nakamura Junichi , Nakaya Toshitaka , Sugimoto Ayako , Sato Takahiro , Watanabe Taku , Ohira Hiroshi , Suzuki Masaru , Tsuneta Satonori , Chiba Yasuyuki , Murayama Michito , Yokota Isao , Konno Satoshi
Published: April 2024

Echocardiography is a widely used modality for the assessment of right ventricular (RV) function; however, few studies have comprehensively compared the accuracy of echocardiographic parameters using invasively obtained reference values. Therefore, this exploratory study aimed to compare the accuracy of echocardiographic parameters of RV function and RV–pulmonary artery (PA) coupling. We calculated four indices of RV function (end‐systolic elastance [Ees] for systolic function [contractility], τ for relaxation, and β and end‐diastolic elastance [Eed] for stiffness), and an index of RV–PA coupling (Ees/arterial elastance [Ea]), using pressure catheterization, cardiac magnetic resonance imaging, and a single‐beat method. We then compared the correlations of RV indices with echocardiographic parameters. In 63 participants (54 with pulmonary hypertension (PH) and nine without PH), Ees and τ correlated with several echocardiographic parameters, such as RV diameter and area, but the correlations were moderate (|correlation coefficients (ρ)| < 0.5 for all parameters). The correlations of β and Eed with echocardiographic parameters were weak, with |ρ| < 0.4. In contrast, Ees/Ea closely correlated with RV free wall longitudinal strain (RVFW‐LS)/estimated systolic PA pressure (eSPAP) (ρ = −0.72). Ees/Ea also correlated with tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion/eSPAP, RV diameter, and RV end‐systolic area, with |ρ | >0.65. In addition, RVFW‐LS/eSPAP yielded high sensitivity (0.84) and specificity (0.75) for detecting reduced Ees/Ea. The present study indicated a limited accuracy of echocardiographic parameters in assessing RV systolic and diastolic function. In contrast to RV function, they showed high accuracy for assessing RV–PA coupling, with RVFW‐LS/eSPAP exhibiting the highest accuracy.
Alkali Metal–Substitution–Induced Confinement Effect for Designing High Phase–Transition–Temperature Molecular–Based Compounds Exhibiting Strong Photoluminescence
Authors: Li Zimu , Chen Haoran , Cao Qingling , Shi Caihong , Zhu Jieyu , Zhong Wenhe , Tong Liang , Jia Qiangqiang , Zhao Jiajia , Chen Lizhuang
Published: April 2024

Organic–inorganic hybrid phase–transition molecular materials have attracted increasing attention due to their excellent properties of combining inorganic and organic components. However, few research has been conducted on rare‐earth–based bimetallic organic–inorganic hybrids. Here, we successfully constructed a series of rare–earth–based organic–inorganic hybrid multifunctional materials, (C6H14N2)2EuX(NO3)6O2 (X=Na, K, Rb), with reversible phase transition, switchable dielectric, photoluminescence and semiconductor properties. Specifically, the phase‐transition temperature of three compounds are determined to be 364, 405 and 440 K, respectively. By the confinement effect caused by the variation of alkali metal elements in the two–dimensional structure, the phase transition temperature is successfully increased by 76 K. Meanwhile, the solid–state photoluminescence of three compounds displays bright red light at room temperature. Additionally, the bandgaps of three compounds are determined to be 3.21, 3.53 and 3.32 eV, respectively. It is expected that the strategy of alkali metal substitution proposed in this work will provide new thoughts for the design of multifunctional organic‐inorganic hybrid crystals.
Room‐Temperature Synthesis of Covalent Organic Frameworks using Gamma‐Irradiation in Open‐Air Conditions
Authors: Elewa Ahmed M. , Mekhemer Islam M. A. , EL‐Mahdy Ahmed F. M. , Sabbah Amr , Chen Shih‐Yuan , Ting Li‐Yu , Abdelnaser Shimaa , Chou Ho‐Hsiu
Published: April 2024

Covalent organic frameworks (COFs), which have layered stacking structures, extended π‐conjugation, and periodic frameworks have become a promising class of materials for a wide range of applications. However, their synthetic pathways frequently need high temperatures, enclosed systems under high pressures, an inert atmosphere, and extended reaction time, which restrict their practicality in real‐world applications. Herein, the use of gamma irradiation is presented to synthesize highly crystalline COFs at room temperature under an open‐air condition within a short time. This is demonstrated that there is no significant difference in crystallinity of COFs by gamma irradiation under air, N2 or Ar atmosphere conditions. Moreover, this approach can successfully fabricate COFs in the vessel with different degrees of transparency or even in a plastic container. Importantly, this strategy is applicable not only to imine linkage of COFs but also effective to the imide linkages of COFs. Most importantly, these COFs demonstrate improved crystallinity, surface area, and thermal stability in comparison to the corresponding materials synthesized via the solvothermal method. Finally, a COF synthesized through gamma irradiation exhibits remarkable photocatalytic activity in promoting the sacrificial hydrogen evolution from water, displaying a more catalytic efficiency compared with that of its solvothermal analogue.
Host‐Guest Interaction Mediated Interfacial Co‐Assembly of Cyclodextrin and Bottlebrush Surfactants for Precisely Tunable Photonic Supraballs
Authors: Liu Dezhi , Zhang Zhenli , Zhang Kunyu , Li Yuesheng , Song Dong‐Po
Published: April 2024

Investigations of host‐guest interactions at water‐oil (w/o) interfaces are limited in single emulsion systems producing simple self‐assembled objects with limited uses. Here, within hierarchically ordered water‐in‐oil‐in‐water (w/o/w) multiple emulsion droplets, interfacial self‐assembly of (polynorbornene‐graft‐polystyrene)‐block‐(polynorbornene‐graft‐polyethylene glycol) (PNPS‐b‐PNPEG) bottlebrush block copolymers can be precisely controlled through host‐guest interactions. α‐Cyclodextrin (α‐CD) in the aqueous phase can thread onto PEG side chains of the bottlebrush surfactants adsorbed at the w/o interface, leading to dehydration and collapsed chain conformation of the PEG block. Consequently, spherical curvature of the w/o internal droplets increases with the increased asymmetry of the bottlebrush molecules, producing photonic supraballs with precisely tailored structural parameters as well as photonic bandgaps. This work provides a simple but highly effective strategy for precise manipulation of complex emulsion systems applicable in a variety of applications, such as photonic pigments, cosmetic products, pesticides, artificial cells, etc.