bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Impact of string connection and contact defects on electrical current distribution in solar cells and modules: A model validated by magnetic field imaging
Authors: Tummalieh Ammar , Mittag Max , Weber Julian , Yucebas Damla , Schäfer Levin , Quay Rüdiger , Reichel Christian , Neuhaus Holger 
Published: May 2024

AbstractModeling of solar modules and their components is essential to quantify geometrical, optical, and electrical losses and to improve the designs and technologies in terms of performance. In most loss analysis models, the current share among the busbars of the solar cell is assumed to be equal since a symmetrical distribution of the metallization is given. The impact of string terminal connection on the current distribution among the ribbons and the resulting changes in ohmic losses has not been studied yet. In this study, a MATLAB model is developed to consider the impact of the string connector terminal position on the current distribution and the ohmic losses in the ribbons and in string connector. The model allows for the analysis of the impact of contact defects scenarios in ribbons and string connectors on the current distribution. Results show that the highest current flows at the closest busbar to the string connector terminal while the current decreases at the busbars farther away from the terminal due to higher ohmic resistance of the current path. The higher the ohmic resistance of the string connector, the more inhomogeneous the current share at busbars. Simulating a 9 busbar M6 half‐cell with 1 × 0.08 mm2 string connector, positioning the string connector terminal at the leftmost or rightmost ribbon results in 0.4 W less power compared to center connection configuration, where the string connector terminal is positioned at the center ribbon. Furthermore, simulation results show that inhomogeneity of current causes about 2.1% reduction in module power compared to the case of evenly distributed cell current, considering a 120‐haf‐cell module with the same string connector. Regarding contact defect analysis, exemplary simulations show the impact of the position of detached ribbons on the power or efficiency loss. Considering left or right connection configuration, detaching the leftmost or rightmost ribbon results in higher power loss compared to other ribbons. Detaching one cell ribbon completely from the string connector results in about 0.2%abs decrease in cell efficiency, while detaching the outer ribbon along all strings of a 120‐half‐cell module results in power loss of about 0.8%. The developed model is validated by performing magnetic field imaging (MFI) measurements, in which the magnetic flux density induced by the current carried by the ribbons is measured.
Investigation of the structure of protein–polymer conjugates in solution reveals the impact of protein deuteration and the size of the polymer on its thermal stability
Authors: Russo Daniela , Di Venere Almerinda , Wurm Frederik R. , Moulin Martine , Härtlein Michael , Garvey Christopher J. , Teixeira José 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThe conjugation of proteins with polymers offers immense biotechnological potential by creating novel macromolecules. This article presents experimental findings on the structural properties of maltose‐binding protein (MBP) conjugated with linear biodegradable polyphosphoester polymers with different molecular weights. We studied isotopic effects on both proteins and polymers. Circular dichroism and fluorescence spectroscopy and small‐angle neutron scattering reveal that the conjugation process destabilizes the protein, affecting the secondary more than the tertiary structure, even at room temperature, and that the presence of two domains in the MBP may contribute to its observed instability. Notably, unfolding temperatures differ between native MBP and the conjugates. In particular, this study sheds light on the complex interplay of factors such as the deuteration influencing protein stability and conformational changes in the conjugation processes. The perdeuteration influences the hydrogen bond network and hydrophobic interactions in the case of the MBP protein. The perdeuteration of the protein influences the hydrogen bond network and hydrophobic interactions. This is evident in the decreased thermal stability of deuterated MBP protein, in the conjugate, especially with high‐molecular‐mass polymers.
The effect of larval exposure to acids and detergents on the life history of the major malaria vector Anopheles arabiensis Patton (Diptera: Culicidae)
Authors: Chen Chia‐Yu , Oliver Shüné V. 
Published: May 2024

AbstractBACKGROUNDAnopheles arabiensis, a highly adaptable member of the Anopheles gambiae complex, poses a challenge for control efforts due to its outdoor biting and resting behaviour. Consequently, indoor insecticide‐based control methods are ineffective against An. arabiensis. Furthermore, An. arabiensis are adapting to breeding in polluted waters, and may be contributing to residual malaria and malaria in urban areas. There have been some advances in understanding the effect of rural pollutants on Anopheles mosquitoes, but the effect of urban pollutants is poorly understood. Thus, in this study, the effect of acidic pollutants [nitric acid (HNO3) and hydrochloric acid (HCl)] and alkaline pollutants (phosphate‐free and phosphate‐containing detergent) on two laboratory‐reared An. arabiensis strains – an insecticide susceptible strain (SENN) and an insecticide‐resistant strain selected from SENN (SENN‐DDT) – were determined.RESULTSThe median lethal concentration (LC50) and larval exposure on larval development, adult longevity and insecticide tolerance were evaluated. Nitric acid and phosphate‐containing detergent were found to be more toxic than HCl and phosphate‐free detergent in terms of LC50 values. Detergent exposure (both phosphate‐containing and phosphate‐free) increased adult longevity of both strains. Nitric acid reduced larval development time in both SENN and SENN‐DDT, whereas HCl reduced larval development time in SENN only. By contrast, both phosphate‐containing and phosphate‐free detergents increased larval development time of both strains. Furthermore, HNO3 and phosphate‐containing detergent increased insecticide tolerance the most.CONCLUSIONThe two An. arabiensis strains responded to urban pollutants differently. Thus, this study provides insight into the adaptation of An. arabiensis to acidic and alkaline urban pollutants. © 2024 The Author(s). Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
RNA interference as a next‐generation control method for suppressing Varroa destructor reproduction in honey bee (Apis mellifera) hives
Authors: McGruddy Rose A. , Smeele Zoe E. , Manley Brian , Masucci James D. , Haywood John , Lester Philip J. 
Published: May 2024

AbstractBACKGROUNDThe Varroa mite (Varroa destructor) is considered to be the greatest threat to apiculture worldwide. RNA interference (RNAi) using double‐stranded RNA (dsRNA) as a gene silencing mechanism has emerged as a next‐generation strategy for mite control.RESULTSWe explored the impact of a dsRNA biopesticide, named vadescana, designed to silence the calmodulin gene in Varroa, on mite fitness in mini‐hives housed in a laboratory. Two dosages were tested: 2 g/L dsRNA and 8 g/L dsRNA. Vadescana appeared to have no effect on mite survival, however, mite fertility was substantially reduced. The majority of foundress mites exposed to vadescana failed to produce any offspring. No dose‐dependent effect of vadescana was observed, as both the low and high doses inhibited mite reproduction equally well in the mini‐hives and neither dose impacted pupal survival of the honey bee. Approximately 95% of bee pupae were alive at uncapping across all treatment groups.CONCLUSIONThese findings suggest that vadescana has significant potential as an effective alternative to conventional methods for Varroa control, with broader implications for the utilization of RNAi as a next‐generation tool in the management of pest species. © 2024 The Author(s). Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Evolution of intracytoplasmic sperm injection: From initial challenges to wider applications
Authors: Asada Yoshimasa 
Published: May 2024

AbstractBackgroundIn vitro fertilization (IVF) has revolutionized infertility treatment. Nevertheless, male infertility requires more effective solutions. In 1992, the first‐ever case of human birth via intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) was reported. ICSI involves microscopically injecting a sperm into an ovum. Successful ICSI has become a reliable therapy for couples facing infertility, a significant milestone. However, it has also introduced various challenges. This study also delves into ethical dilemmas arising from widespread ICSI use.MethodsThis review traces the history of ICSI, presenting pioneering attempts, first successful attempts, and critical reports on account of the initial skepticism toward the technology. The review also focuses on chronological progress until ICSI was recognized as effective and became widely applied.Main findingsThe review reveals that ICSI, although transformative, presents challenges. Successes include addressing male infertility and aiding fertilization. However, concerns arise regarding optimal sperm and embryo selection, genetic mutations, and long‐term health implications. Ethical considerations surrounding ICSI's broad applications also surface.ConclusionsDespite its success and effectiveness, ICSI is still evolving as a therapeutic method. By comprehensively evaluating the historical progress and the current status of ICSI and exploring its future prospects, this study highlights the importance of ICSI in infertility treatment.
Robust Bayesian nonparametric variable selection for linear regression
Authors: Cabezas Alberto , Battiston Marco , Nemeth Christopher 
Published: May 2024

AbstractSpike‐and‐slab and horseshoe regressions are arguably the most popular Bayesian variable selection approaches for linear regression models. However, their performance can deteriorate if outliers and heteroskedasticity are present in the data, which are common features in many real‐world statistics and machine learning applications. This work proposes a Bayesian nonparametric approach to linear regression that performs variable selection while accounting for outliers and heteroskedasticity. Our proposed model is an instance of a Dirichlet process scale mixture model with the advantage that we can derive the full conditional distributions of all parameters in closed‐form, hence producing an efficient Gibbs sampler for posterior inference. Moreover, we present how to extend the model to account for heavy‐tailed response variables. The model's performance is tested against competing algorithms on synthetic and real‐world datasets.
Innovations in spider silk‐inspired artificial gel fibers: Methods, properties, strengthening, functionality, and challenges
Authors: Khan Abdul Qadeer , Guo Wenjin , Li Sitong , Zhu Yutian , Bai Jie , Liu Zunfeng , Zhao Weiqiang , Zhou Xiang 
Published: May 2024

AbstractSpider silk, possessing exceptional combination properties, is classified as a bio‐gel fiber. Thereby, it serves as a valuable origin of inspiration for the advancement of various artificial gel fiber materials with distinct functionalities. Gel fibers exhibit promising potential for utilization in diverse fields, including smart textiles, artificial muscle, tissue engineering, and strain sensing. However, there are still numerous challenges in improving the performance and functionalizing applications of spider silk‐inspired artificial gel fibers. Thus, to gain a penetrating insight into bioinspired artificial gel fibers, this review provided a comprehensive overview encompassing three key aspects: the fundamental design concepts and implementing strategies of gel fibers, the properties and strengthening strategies of gel fibers, and the functionalities and application prospects of gel fibers. In particular, multiple strengthening and toughening mechanisms were introduced at micro, nano, and molecular‐level structures of gel fibers. Additionally, the existing challenges of gel fibers are summarized. This review aims to offer significant guidance for the development and application of artificial gel fibers and inspire further research in the field of high‐performance gel fibers.
Impact of autofluorescence‐guided surgery of parathyroid glands during total thyroidectomy in experienced surgeons: A randomized clinical trial
Authors: Carrillo Lizarazo Jose Luis , Bakkar Sohail , Zerrweck Carlos , Onofre Ramos Marcos Martin , Kraimps Jean‐Louis , Donatini Gianluca 
Published: May 2024

AbstractIntroductionPost‐surgical hypoparathyroidism often occurs after total thyroidectomy (TT). The aim of this study is to investigate whether the use of near‐infrared autofluorescence (NIRAF) of parathyroid glands (PGs) can aid experienced surgeons in identifying more PGs during surgery, potentially reducing unintended resection, and assessing its impact on post‐surgical hypoparathyroidism.Materials and MethodsAll patients undergoing at least a TT by two experienced surgeons, between 2020 and 2021, were enrolled and randomized into two cohorts: NIRAF group (NG) and CONTROL group (CG). Transient hypoparathyroidism was defined by serum concentration of PTH<12 ng/mL at the 1st post‐operative day and permanent by the need of calcium‐active vitamin D treatment >6 months from the surgery with still undetectable PTH or <12 ng/m.ResultsAmong 236 patients (111 in NG, 125 in CG), the number of PGs identified was higher in NG (93.9%, 417/444) compared to CG (81.4%, 407/500) (p < 0.001), with a mean of 3.76 ± 0.44 PGs per patient in NG and 3.25 ± 0.79 in CG. The number of unintendedly resected PGs was 14 in NG and 42 in CG (p < 0.0001). Transient hypoparathyroidism was observed in 18 patients (16.2%) in NG and 40 patients (32.0%) in CG (p = 0.004). Permanent hypoparathyroidism affected 1 patient in NG and 7 patients in CG (p = 0.06). The mean operative time was longer in NG (104.3 ± 32.08 min) compared to CG (85.5 ± 40.62 min) (p < 0.001).ConclusionsNIRAF enhances the identification of PGs, preventing their inadvertent resection and reducing the overall incidence of post‐surgical hypoparathyroidism.
Developing culturally relevant leadership educators
Authors: Beatty Cameron C. , Guthrie Kathy L. 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThis article demonstrates how educators can create opportunities for students to learn about leadership in a variety of circumstances. Through the integrated model for contextualizing leadership learning, educators can center culturally relevant leadership while considering the environment where leadership learning is provided as well as the context in which the identity, capacity, and effectiveness of leadership educators are developed. The implications of this integrated approach emerged from 26 narratives and are explored through three themes centered on co‐curricular program development and implementation, as well as personal and professional development. These themes include examining organizations' histories and structures, the developmental readiness of educators and students, and the significance of context.
Disruption of pulmonary microvascular endothelial barrier by dysregulated claudin-8 and claudin-4: uncovered mechanisms in porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus infection
Authors: Sun Weifeng , Wu Weixin , Fang Xinyu , Ge Xinna , Zhang Yongning , Han Jun , Guo Xin , Zhou Lei , Yang Hanchun 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThe pulmonary endothelium is a dynamic and metabolically active monolayer of endothelial cells. Dysfunction of the pulmonary endothelial barrier plays a crucial role in the acute lung injury (ALI) and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), frequently observed in the context of viral pneumonia. Dysregulation of tight junction proteins can lead to the disruption of the endothelial barrier and subsequent leakage. Here, the highly pathogenic porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (HP-PRRSV) served as an ideal model for studying ALI and ARDS. The alveolar lavage fluid of pigs infected with HP-PRRSV, and the supernatant of HP-PRRSV infected pulmonary alveolar macrophages were respectively collected to treat the pulmonary microvascular endothelial cells (PMVECs) in Transwell culture system to explore the mechanism of pulmonary microvascular endothelial barrier leakage caused by viral infection. Cytokine screening, addition and blocking experiments revealed that proinflammatory cytokines IL-1β and TNF-α, secreted by HP-PRRSV-infected macrophages, disrupt the pulmonary microvascular endothelial barrier by downregulating claudin-8 and upregulating claudin-4 synergistically. Additionally, three transcription factors interleukin enhancer binding factor 2 (ILF2), general transcription factor III C subunit 2 (GTF3C2), and thyroid hormone receptor-associated protein 3 (THRAP3), were identified to accumulate in the nucleus of PMVECs, regulating the transcription of claudin-8 and claudin-4. Meanwhile, the upregulation of ssc-miR-185 was found to suppress claudin-8 expression via post-transcriptional inhibition. This study not only reveals the molecular mechanisms by which HP-PRRSV infection causes endothelial barrier leakage in acute lung injury, but also provides novel insights into the function and regulation of tight junctions in vascular homeostasis.
Bonding strength between spruce glulam and birch plywood at different load-to-plywood face grain angles
Authors: Wang Tianxiang , Wang Yue , Debertolis Mattia , Crocetti Roberto , Wålinder Magnus , Blomqvist Lars 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThere is growing interest recently in reducing the usage of metals in timber structures. Birch plywood possesses satisfactory mechanical properties compared to other wood-based panels and is promising to be utilized in timber connections as a substitute for the more conventional slotted-in metal plate. There are essentially two possibilities to connect plywood plates and other timber elements by means of either mechanical connections or adhesively bonded connections. Despite the more commonly adopted mechanical connections in current timber structures, the adhesively bonded connections hold the distinct advantages of being more cost-effective, stiffer, and with a lower risk of moisture penetration in the timber elements. When employing birch plywood in timber structure applications such as trusses and frame corners, stresses from different directions need to be transmitted by the plywood gusset plate. However, it is still uncertain how the bonding strength is affected by different loading angles to the face grain. This research question, specifically concerning the bonding strength between birch plywood and spruce glulam, has been addressed in this paper. It was found that the bonding strength varies within a relatively small range when the load-to-plywood face grain angle varies from 0° to 90°, which is promising for the development of adhesively bonded joints. Failure mainly occurred in glulam at 0° and 15°; while at other angles, a mixture of cohesive failure in glulam and plywood face veneer was dominant. The weak angle-dependence of the bonding strength can be explained by further checking the shear strength of the weaker wood adherends between glulam and plywood. A strong positive correlation was observed between bonding strength and the wood shear strength.
Research progress and application of liver organoids for disease modeling and regenerative therapy
Authors: Hu Yang , Geng Qiao , Wang Lu , Wang Yi , Huang Chuyue , Fan Zhimin , Kong Desong 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThe liver is a major metabolic organ of the human body and has a high incidence of diseases. In recent years, the annual incidence of liver disease has increased, seriously endangering human life and health. The study of the occurrence and development mechanism of liver diseases, discovery of new therapeutic targets, and establishment of new methods of medical treatment are major issues related to the national economy and people’s livelihood. The development of stable and effective research models is expected to provide new insights into the pathogenesis of liver diseases and the search for more effective treatment options. Organoid technology is a new in vitro culture system, and organoids constructed by human cells can simulate the morphological structure, gene expression, and glucose and lipid metabolism of organs in vivo, providing a new model for related research on liver diseases. This paper reviews the latest research progress on liver organoids from the establishment of cell sources and application of liver organoids and discusses their application potential in the field of liver disease research.
A systematic review of users experiences of using digital interventions within psychosis: a thematic synthesis of qualitative research
Authors: Dennard Sophie , Patel Rupa , Garety Philippa , Edwards Clementine , Gumley Andrew 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Purpose
Although the development of digital mental health support for people with psychosis has been increasing, the development and opportunities to access this have been more limited compared to other mental health conditions. Qualitative research exploring the experiences of using digital interventions amongst people with psychosis is even less well developed; however, such research is crucial in capturing the experiences of using digital interventions to ensure they are meeting the needs of people with psychosis. This paper aimed to synthesise qualitative data related to the experiences of people with psychosis who have used digital interventions.

Methods
A systematic literature search was conducted of articles published between 1992 and October 2023 using PubMed, MBase, PsycINFO, & OVID Medline. Two reviewers independently reviewed and screened 268 papers. Papers that met inclusion criteria were quality assessed using The Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) qualitative studies checklist. The Enhancing Transparency in Reporting the Synthesis of Qualitative Research (ENTREQ) checklist was used to guide the structure of the report.

Results
A thematic synthesis of 19 studies revealed six overarching themes which related to different aspects and features of the digital interventions: participants’ relationship with technology; the accessibility of the interventions; how the interventions could impact on individuals’ awareness and management of mental health; enhanced communication and relationships; and opportunities for reflection.

Conclusions
Benefits of using digital interventions are discussed. Areas for development and improvements are highlighted. Finally, recommendations for stakeholders who develop and implement digital interventions for psychosis are made.
Topology optimization of incompressible structures subject to fluid–structure interaction
Authors: Castañar Inocencio , Baiges Joan , Codina Ramon 
Published: May 2024

AbstractIn this work, an algorithm for topology optimization of incompressible structures is proposed, in both small and finite strain assumptions and in which the loads come from the interaction with a surrounding fluid. The algorithm considers a classical block-iterative scheme, in which the solid and the fluid mechanics problems are solved sequentially to simulate the interaction between them. Several stabilized mixed finite element formulations based on the Variational Multi-Scale approach are considered to be capable of tackling the incompressible limit for the numerical approximation of the solid. The fluid is considered as an incompressible Newtonian fluid flow which is combined with an Arbitrary-Lagrangian Eulerian formulation to account for the moving part of the domain. Several numerical examples are presented and discussed to assess the robustness of the proposed algorithm and its applicability to the topology optimization of incompressible elastic solids subjected to Newtonian incompressible fluid loads.