bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The optical, seismic, and infrasound signature of the March 5 2022, bolide over Central Italy
Authors: Olivieri Marco , Piccinini Davide , Saccorotti Gilberto , Barghini Dario , Gardiol Daniele , Pino Nicola Alessandro , Ripepe Maurizio , Betti Giulio , Lacanna Giorgio , Arcidiaco Lorenzo
Published: November 2023

On March 5, 2022, a 12 kg meteoroid crossed the sky above Central Italy and was observed by three different observational systems: the PRISMA all-sky camera network (10 stations), the Italian national seismic network (61 stations), and a 4-element infrasound array. The corresponding datasets, each with its own resolution, provided three independent assessments of the trajectory, size and speed of the meteoroid. The bolide traveled across central Italy with an azimuth of 102 degrees, becoming visible at about 91 km above sea level with a velocity of about 15.4 km/s. Its visible trajectory lasted about 15 s. Reasonably, the residual portion of the ablated bolide terminated its path in the Adriatic Sea and could not be recovered. Seismic and infrasound data well match optical observations detecting the bolide Mach cone at 68 km above sea level with a back azimuth of 25 degrees with respect to the array. By comparing results from the three different systems, discrepancies are within the estimated uncertainties, thus confirming the mutual consistency of the adopted methodologies. Therefore, this study shows that different approaches can be integrated to improve the detection capability for bolide crossing the sky in monitored regions.
Optimizing the microbial synthesis of silver nanoparticles using Gloeophyllum striatum and their antimicrobial potential evaluation
Authors: Tończyk Aleksandra , Niedziałkowska Katarzyna , Lisowska Katarzyna
Published: November 2023

The search for new sources of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) is highly relevant in many fields. Mycosynthesis seems to be advantageous for large-scale production, and using brown rot fungi might be a promising solution. In this study, AgNP synthesis using Gloeophyllum striatum DSM 9592 was performed under various process conditions. The resulting AgNPs were characterized using UV/Vis, FT-IR, SEM and NTA techniques and their biological activities were determined. It was found that different synthesis conditions changed the production efficiency, which was the highest in 28 s AgNPs. Moreover, temperature and shaking conditions slightly affected the activity of the resulting AgNP types. Gram-negative bacteria were generally more susceptible to the action of AgNPs with MIC values two- or three-fold lower compared to Gram-positive strains. Pseudomonas aeruginosa was the most sensitive among tested strains with a MIC value of 1.56 µg/ml. The research was additionally extended by the biofilm formation assay for this strain. It was found that AgNPs of all types led to a reduction in biofilm-forming capability of P. aeruginosa over the tested concentration range. Haemolytic and cytotoxic activity assays showed that synthesis conditions also affected AgNP toxicity. For instance, 4 ns AgNPs were the least cytotoxic and cause less than 50% reduction of fibroblast viability in the concentration that inhibits the growth of P. aeruginosa completely. These results highlight the possible utility of mycogenic silver nanoparticles as an antibacterial agent in antiseptics or other external treatments.
Utility and greenness appraisal of nuclear magnetic resonance for sustainable simultaneous determination of three 1,4-benzodiazepines and their main impurity 2-amino-5-chlorobenzophenone
Authors: Qandeel Nermeen A. , El-Masry Amal A. , El-Shaheny Rania , Eid Manal , Moustafa Mohamed A.
Published: November 2023

A robust, stability-indicating, and eco-friendly proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H-qNMR) method was developed for the concurrent determination of three 1,4-benzodiazepines (BDZs), namely diazepam (DZP), alprazolam (ALP), and chlordiazepoxide (CDP) and their common impurity, synthesis precursor, and degradation product; 2-amino-5-chlorobenzophenone (ACB). In the present method, a novel approach was developed for composing a green and cost-efficient solvent system as an alternative to the common NMR organic solvents utilizing 0.3 M sodium dodecyl sulfate prepared in deuterated water. The conducted method is characterized by simplicity with no need for sample pretreatment or labeling. Phloroglucinol was used as an internal standard. The chosen signals for the determinations of ALP, CDP, DZP and ACB were at 2.35 ppm (singlet), 2.84 ppm (singlet), 3.11 ppm (singlet), and 6.90 ppm (doublet of doublet), respectively. The proposed method possessed linearity over the concentration range of 0.25–15.0 mg ml−1 for DZP, ALP, CDP and of 0.5–25.0 mg ml−1 for ACB with LOD values of 0.06, 0.03, 0.07 and 0.16 mg ml−1 respectively, and LOQ values of 0.18, 0.09, 0.21 and 0.49 mg ml−1, respectively. Accuracy of the method was evidenced by excellent recovery% (99.57–99.90%) and small standard deviation (≥ 1.10) for the three analyzed drugs. Intra- and inter-day precision were determined with coefficient of variation ranging from 0.12 to 1.14 and from 0.72 to 1.67, respectively. For the studied compounds, appraisal of the method greenness was achieved via four approaches: Analytical Eco-Scale, Green Analytical Procedure Index (GAPI), Analytical greenness metric (AGREE), and RGB Additive Color Model. The results proved that the proposed method has the privilege of being a green analytical method.
Historical shifting in grain mineral density of landmark rice and wheat cultivars released over the past 50 years in India
Authors: Debnath Sovan , Dey Ahana , Khanam Rubina , Saha Susmit , Sarkar Dibyendu , Saha Jayanta K. , Coumar Mounissamy V. , Patra Bhaskar C. , Biswas Tufleuddin , Ray Mrinmoy , Radhika Madhari S. , Mandal Biswapati
Published: November 2023

The ‘Green Revolution (GR)’ has been successful in meeting food sufficiency in India, but compromising its nutritional security. In a first, we report altered grain nutrients profile of modern-bred rice and wheat cultivars diminishing their mineral dietary significance to the Indian population. To substantiate, we evaluated grain nutrients profile of historical landmark high-yielding cultivars of rice and wheat released in succeeding decades since the GR and its impacts on mineral diet quality and human health, with a prediction for decades ahead. Analysis of grain nutrients profile shows a downward trend in concentrations of essential and beneficial elements, but an upward in toxic elements in past 50 y in both rice and wheat. For example, zinc (Zn) and iron (Fe) concentration in grains of rice decreased by ~ 33.0 (P < 0.001) and 27.0% (P < 0.0001); while for wheat it decreased by ~ 30.0 (P < 0.0001) and 19.0% (P < 0.0001) in past more than 50 y, respectively. A proposed mineral-diet quality index (M-DQI) significantly (P < 0.0001) decreased ~ 57.0 and 36.0% in the reported time span (1960–2010) in rice and wheat, respectively. The impoverished M-DQI could impose hostile effects on non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like iron-deficiency anemia, respiratory, cardiovascular, and musculoskeletal among the Indian population by 2040. Our research calls for an urgency of grain nutrients profiling before releasing a cultivar of staples like rice and wheat in the future.
Application of 20% silver nanoclusters in polymethacrylic acid on simulated dentin caries; its penetration depth and effect on surface hardness
Authors: Cabalén Maria Belén , Molina Gustavo Fabian , Piscitelli Vincent , Rossa Maximiliano , Aranguren Juan Pablo , Palma Santiago Daniel , Pino Gustavo Ariel , Picca Mariana , Burrow Michael Francis
Published: November 2023

The aims of this study were: To evaluate the surface hardness of simulated dentin caries lesions treated with either silver nanoclusters (AgNCls) synthesized in polymethacrylic acid (PMAA) or 38% silver diammine fluoride (SDF), as well as observe the penetration of the treatment solutions into the simulated caries lesions. Dentin blocks 4 mm thick obtained from caries-free third molars were sectioned and then simulated caries lesions on the occlusal dentin surfaces were created. Each specimen (n = 8) was divided into four sections: (A) treated with 20% AgNCls/PMAA; (B) treated with SDF 38% (FAgamin, Tedequim, Cordoba, Argentina); (C) sound tooth protected by nail-varnish during artificial caries generation (positive control); and (D) artificial caries lesion without surface treatment (negative control). AgNCls/PMAA or SDF were applied on the simulated lesions with a microbrush for 10 s, then excess removed. The surface hardness was measured by means of Vickers indentation test. To trace the depth of penetration, up to 400 μm, of silver ions, elemental composition of the samples was observed using EDX, coupled with SEM, and measured every 50 μm from the surface towards the pulp chamber. Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) was also employed to trace silver ion penetration; the atomic silver line 328.06 nm was used with a 60 μm laser spot size to a depth of 240 μm. Student’s-t test identified significant differences between treatment groups for each depth and the Bonferroni test was used for statistical analysis of all groups (p < 0.05). Mean surface hardness values obtained were 111.2 MPa, 72.3 MPa, 103.3 MPa and 50.5 MPa for groups A, B, C and D respectively. There was a significant difference between groups A and C compared with groups B and D, the group treated with AgNCls/PMAA achieved the highest surface hardness, similar or higher than the sound dentin control. A constant presence of silver was observed throughout the depth of the sample for group A, while group B showed a peak concentration of silver at the surface with a significant drop beyond 50 μm. The 20% AgNCls/PMAA solution applied to simulated dentin caries lesions achieved the recovery of surface hardness equivalent to sound dentin with the penetration of silver ions throughout the depth of the lesion.
Integrated control of braking-yaw-roll stability under steering-braking conditions
Authors: Chen Jia , Liu Yihang , Liu Renping , Xiao Feng , Huang Jian
Published: November 2023

Sharp steering-braking at a high speed exposes sport utility vehicles with high gravity centers and narrow wheel tracks to the risks of tire locking, sideslip and rollover. To avoid these risks and ensure braking safety, yaw stability and roll stability upon steering-braking, a braking-yaw-roll stability integrated control strategy was proposed, which consists of a supervisor, an upper and a lower controller for the front and rear axle independent drive electric vehicle. In the supervisor, a nonlinear vehicle predictive model was constructed and four control modes were proposed according to the vehicle status and rollover indexes. The weight coefficients between braking force, yaw stability and roll stability are determined dynamically by the control mode and output to the upper controller. The upper controller used a nonlinear model predictive control to determine the longitudinal braking force distribution of the four wheels. And in the lower controller, the regenerative braking torque and friction braking torque of each wheel were distributed. Finally, simulation verifications were carried out on the high and low adhesion roads. The results show that the control strategy proposed in this study can effectively prevent the vehicle from rollover while ensuring braking safety and yaw stability.
Cryovacuum setup for optical studies of astrophysical ice
Authors: Golikov Oleg , Yerezhep Darkhan , Akylbayeva Aigerim , Sokolov Dmitriy Yurievich , Korshikov Eugeniy , Nurmukan Assel , Aldiyarov Abdurakhman
Published: November 2023

This paper presents a cryovacuum setup for the study of substances under near-space conditions. The setup makes it possible to study the infrared spectra, refractive index, and density of substances that are condensed from the vapor phase onto a cooled substrate in the temperature range from 11 to 300 K. At the same time, it is possible to obtain the ultimate pressure of 1 × 10–10 Torr in the vacuum chamber. The presented setup is based on FTIR spectroscopy (the spectral measurement range is 400–7800 cm–1) and laser interference, through which the important physical and optical parameters are determined. A number of experiments allow us to point out that the data obtained using this setup correlate well with the experiments of other authors. Due to the non-directional deposition of substances from the vapor phase, the ice formed resembles the one formed under cosmic conditions as closely as possible, which makes the presented setup particularly valuable. The presented cryovacuum setup can be used for the interpretation of data obtained during astrophysical observations, providing a means to determine the properties of cosmic objects.
Advancing breast cancer diagnosis with a near-infrared fluorescence imaging smart sensor for estrogen/progesterone receptor detection
Authors: Zhang Gong , Dong Min , Yao Xiulei , Xia Yuke , Yu Han , zhou Yu , Lian Chao , Zhang Yunlei , Cui Yiyao
Published: November 2023

Molecular-genetic imaging has greatly advanced clinical diagnosis and prognosis monitoring. However, the specific visualization of intracellular proteins such as estrogen receptor (ER) and progesterone receptor (PR) remains an elusive goal. Here, we highlight a novel method for selectively detecting ER/PR positive tumors using genetically engineered responsive elements. Our study demonstrates that the double responsive elements of ER/PR exhibit the most sensitivity to the steroid receptors in breast cancers. By utilizing a cationic polymer vector, we constructed a responsive element-fluorescence protein system that can selectively image ER/PR positive breast cancers in murine models under a near-infrared laser. This non-invasive imaging achieved high-resolution detection without death or serious anaphylactic activity in the animals. Our findings suggest that the reporter system consisting of steroid receptor response elements and near-infrared proteins provides a practical system for identifying biomarkers and advancing cancer diagnosis and therapy.
Effect of temperature on fast transmission of COVID-19 in low per capita GDP Asian countries
Authors: Haq Faraz ul , Abduljaleel Yasir , Ahmad Ijaz
Published: November 2023

An abrupt outbreak of COVID-19 caused enormous global concerns. Although all countries around the world are severely affected, developing Asian countries faced more difficulties due to their low per capita GDP. The temperature was considered a leading variable in spreading viral diseases, including COVID-19. The present study aimed to assess the relationship between temperature and the spread of COVID-19, with a focus on developing Asian countries. In a few Asian countries, COVID-19 spread rapidly in the summer, while in some countries, there is an increase in winter. A linear correlation was developed between COVID-19 cases/deaths and temperature for the selected countries, which were very weak. A coefficient of determination of 0.334 and 0.365 was observed between cases and average monthly max/min temperatures. A correlation of R2 = 0.307 and 0.382 was found between deaths and average max/min monthly temperatures, respectively. There is no scientific reason to assume that COVID-19 is more dominant at low than high temperatures. Therefore, it is believed that the results may be helpful for the health department and decision-makers to understand the fast spread of COVID-19.
Theoretical design of durable and strong polycarbonates against photodegradation
Authors: Huang Xiao , Orimoto Yuuichi , Aoki Yuriko
Published: November 2023

Electron-withdrawing substituents in the phenyl moiety control bond alternation in the geometry of excited states, causing the suppression of carbonate O–C bond cleavage.
Highly efficient hydrogen production and selective CO2 reduction by the C3N5 photocatalyst using only visible light
Authors: Ito Kosei , Noda Kei
Published: November 2023

Efficient photocatalytic H2 production and selective CO2 photoreduction over a nitrogen-rich carbon nitride (C3N5), which works as a metal-free, visible-light-responsive photocatalyst, are presented.
Phase relations, thermal conductivity and elastic properties of ZrO2 and HfO2 polymorphs at high pressures and temperatures
Authors: Sagatova Dinara N. , Sagatov Nursultan E. , Gavryushkin Pavel N. , Solodovnikov Sergey F.
Published: November 2023

In the present study, P–T phase diagrams of ZrO2 and HfO2 for a wide pressure range were calculated for the first time using DFT. The thermal conductivity and elastic properties of ZrO2 and HfO2 were calculated and compared with the available data.
Flagellar motor protein-targeted search for the druggable site of Helicobacter pylori
Authors: Tammara Vaishnavi , Angrover Ruchika , Sirur Disha , Das Atanu
Published: November 2023

A systematic therapeutic strategy against Helicobacter pylori is proposed.
Harnessing the catalytic plasticity of the ent-kaurene synthase from Bradyrhizobium japonicum to produce the ent-rosane and ent-pimarane scaffolds
Authors: Zhang Fan , Wang Su-Jing , Xiao Wen , Yu Ming-Zhu , Sha Feng , Wu Ruibo , Xiang Zheng
Published: November 2023

The F72Y mutation of the ent-kaurene synthase from Bradyrhizobium japonicum leads to the formation of ent-rosa-5(10),15-diene and ent-pimara-8,15-diene, two common scaffolds of labdane diterpenoids.
Green and efficient preparation and application of weakly crystalline TiO2 with high catalytic activity
Authors: Feng Ying , Zhu YongChao , Chen Tian , Li Pengcheng , Liu Bingjie , Cai Jianfeng , Liang Wenjie , Xu Hai
Published: November 2023

Weakly crystalline TiO2 with high catalytic activity was prepared using a simple green chemical oxidation reaction at low temperatures, achieving 90% degradation of methylene blue (MB) at 20 min and 100% degradation of isopropyl alcohol (IPA) at 2 h.
Metallo-β-lactamases immobilized by magnetic zeolitic imidazolate frameworks-8 for degradation of β-lactam antibiotics in an aqueous environment
Authors: Wang Quanfang , Sun Yuefeng , Zhao Shidi , Bai Chuqi , Cong Zhiwei , Dong Yalin , Wang Taotao
Published: November 2023

The strategy of combining metallo-β-lactamases, zeolitic imidazolate frameworks-8, and magnetic Fe3O4 nanoparticles demonstrates an efficient and reusable composite material to degrade β-lactam antibiotics in aqueous environments.
N-Alkylation of aromatic amines with alcohols by using a commercially available Ru complex under mild conditions
Authors: Mocci Rita , Atzori Luciano , Baratta Walter , De Luca Lidia , Porcheddu Andrea
Published: November 2023

An N-alkylation procedure has been developed under very mild conditions using a known commercially available Ru-based catalyst.
From wasted polymers to N/O co-doped partially graphitic carbon with hierarchical porous architecture as a promising cathode for high performance Zn-ion hybrid supercapacitors
Authors: Liu Huan , Huang Xiuli , Chen Wei , Ding Lei , Ren Yiming , Miao Zongcheng , Xu Maodong , Zhu Jiang
Published: November 2023

N/O co-doped graphitic hierarchical porous carbon is yielded from wasted polymers. A capacity of 257.9 mA h g−1 with an ultrahigh energy density of 226.5 W h kg−1 is delivered. Excellent energy storage ability is also obtained for wearable devices.
Entwicklung einer nationalen Strategie für gen- und
zellbasierte Therapien
Authors: Klump Hannes , Schäfer Richard
Published: November 2023

Die Erfolge der gen- und zellbasierten Therapien (GCT), insbesondere mittels
CAR-T-Zellen, haben in den letzten Jahren deren Kommerzialisierung
vorangetrieben. Deutschland fällt jedoch im internationalen Vergleich
bei der klinischen Umsetzung der Forschungsergebnisse und wirtschaftlichen
Verwertung der GCT immer weiter zurück. Um konkrete Maßnahmen
dagegen auszuarbeiten, wurde die „Nationale Strategie für gen-
und zellbasierte Therapien“ ins Leben gerufen, die vom Berlin Institute
of Health (BIH) koordiniert und umgesetzt werden wird. Dieser Artikel fasst den
Status quo der Initiative zusammen, mit einem besonderen Blick auf die Rolle der
Transfusionsmedizin.
ChatGPT and Rhinoplasty Recovery: An Exploration of AI's Role in Postoperative Guidance
Authors: Capelleras Marta , Soto-Galindo Germán A. , Cruellas Marc , Apaydin Fazil
Published: November 2023

The potential applications of artificial intelligence (AI) in health care have garnered significant interest in recent years. This study presents the first published exploration of ChatGPT, an AI language model, as a tool for providing postoperative guidance during rhinoplasty recovery. The primary objective was to shed light on the role of ChatGPT in augmenting patient care during the critical postoperative phase. Using the Rhinobase database, standardized questions were formulated to evaluate AI-generated responses addressing pain management, swelling, bruising, and potential asymmetries. Results demonstrated that ChatGPT has the potential to enhance patient education and alleviate emotional distress by providing general information and reassurance during the recovery process. However, the study emphasized that AI should not replace personalized advice from qualified health care professionals. This pioneering investigation offers valuable insights into the integration of AI and human expertise, paving the way for optimized postrhinoplasty recovery care.
Inflammatory Modifications in Paranasal Sinuses and Ostiomeatal Complex Anatomical Variations in Jet Aircraft Pilots: A Computed Tomography Study
Authors: da Silva Yeda , Munhoz Luciana , Parga Filho José Rodrigues , Damasceno Andreza Gomes , Rosa Cesar Felipe França da , Zukovski Eduardo Bilaqui , Teng Erik Zhu , Arita Emiko Saito , Castro Cláudio Campi de
Published: November 2023

Introduction Jet aircraft pilots are exposed to huge pressure variation during flight, which affect physiological functions as systems, such as the respiratory system.

Objectives The objective of the present investigation was to evaluate inflammatory changes of paranasal sinuses of jet aircraft pilots before and after a jet aircraft training program, using multislice computed tomography (CT), in comparison with a group of nonairborne individuals with the same age, sex, and physical health conditions. A second objective of the present study was to assess the association between the ostiomeatal complex obstruction and its anatomical variations.

Methods The study group consisted of 15 jet aircraft pilots participating in the training program. The control group consisted of 41 nonairborne young adults. The 15 fighter pilots were evaluated before initiating the training program and after their final approval for the presence of inflammatory paranasal sinus disease. The ostiomeatal complex anatomical variations and obstructions were analyzed in pilots after the training program.

Results Jet aircraft pilots presented higher incidence of mucosal thickening in maxillary sinus and anterior ethmoid cells than controls. Prominent ethmoidal bulla showed significant association with obstruction of the osteomeatal complex.

Conclusions Jet aircraft pilots present increased inflammatory disease when compared with nonairborne individuals. The presence of a prominent ethmoidal bulla is associated with ostiomeatal complex obstruction.
To stay, remain or leave: how verbal concepts as response options in political referendums such as the Brexit polls might bias voting outcomes
Authors: Ströbel Liane , Koch Iring , Salge Torsten-Oliver , Antons David
Published: November 2023

Referendums allow people to participate in political decision-making. However, they also come with the challenge of presenting complex issues to the electorate in a concise and comprehensible way. In order to simplify the decision-making process, referendum questions are often tailored toyes/noresponse options. In comparison, the UK European Union membership referendum of 2016, in contrast to the 1975 referendum on the same issue, discarded this option, and a verbal and conceptually more complex alternative response option was brought into play (remainvs.leave). This potentially relevant change in the voting tradition justifies a linguistic consideration of the suitability of the choice of verbs. Verbal response options such asstay, remainandleavemight activate different framing effects due to their underlying etymology. Our goal was therefore to examine whether the choice of verbs can have a biasing effect, which might be the case due to their frame-inherent structure. This investigation attempts, through both a linguistic analysis and an experimental analysis using a version of the Implicit Association Test (IAT), to bridge the research gap between the awareness that there are linguistic factors that can influence decision-making processes and the lack of inclusion of framing effects. Overall, the data of two IAT studies (n = 185andn = 355) suggest that the exact wording of dichotomic response options has the potential to influence response choice based on evaluative associations of the verbs. Specifically, when compared toleave, we found relatively more positive evaluation forstaythan forremain. Furthermore - independent of the Brexit referendum - our study raises the question whether verbs are at all suitable to replaceyes/noresponse options due to inherent framing effects. This linguistic aspect requires more attention in the design of response options in future referendums.
The correction of instrument transformer ferroresonance model in IEC standard and study on resonance interval based on transformer damping
Authors: Liu Hongwen , Chai Chenchao , Zhang Chunli , Yang Jindong
Published: November 2023

The traditional ferromagnetic resonance model of the inductive voltage transformer in the IEC/TR 61869-102 transformer standard ignores the DC resistance of the transformer. The author believes that ignoring the damping effect of the transformer itself is not justified. Based on this, the model is modified, and the corresponding differential equation is derived. Through simulation and field testing, it is found that the DC resistance of the transformer has a damping effect on resonant overvoltage and resonant overcurrent. Moreover, with an increase in DC resistance, the ferromagnetic resonance region decreases. By increasing the DC resistance of the voltage transformer, it helps to reduce the ferromagnetic resonance interval as well as the inrush current.
Tunable spectral continuous shift of high-order harmonic generation in atoms by a plasmon-assisted shaping pulse
Authors: Wang 王 Yuan 源 , Li 李 Yulong 玉龙 , Qiao 乔 Yue 月 , Gao 高 Na 娜 , Guo 郭 Fu-Ming 福明 , Chen 陈 Zhou 洲 , He 赫 Lan-Hai 兰海 , Yang 杨 Yu-Jun 玉军 , Zhao 赵 Xi 曦 , Wang 王 Jun 俊
Published: November 2023

We delve into the phenomenon of high-order harmonic generation within a helium atom under the influence of a plasmon-assisted shaping pulse. Our findings reveal an intriguing manipulation of the frequency peak position in the harmonic emission by adjusting the absolute phase parameter within the frequency domain of the shaping pulse. This phenomenon holds potential significance for experimental setups necessitating precisely tuned single harmonics. Notably, we observe a modulated shift in the created harmonic photon energy, spanning an impressive range of 1.2 eV. This frequency peak shift is rooted in the asymmetry exhibited by the rising and falling edges of the laser pulse, directly influencing the position of the peak frequency emission. Our study quantifies the dependence of this tuning range and the asymmetry of the laser pulse, offering valuable insights into the underlying mechanisms driving this phenomenon. Furthermore, our investigation uncovers the emergence of semi-integer order harmonics as the phase parameter is altered. We attribute this discovery to the intricate interference between harmonics generated by the primary and secondary return cores. This observation introduces an innovative approach for generating semi-integer order harmonics, thus expanding our understanding of high-order harmonic generation. Ultimately, our work contributes to the broader comprehension of complex phenomena in laser-matter interactions and provides a foundation for harnessing these effects in various applications, particularly those involving precise spectral control and the generation of unique harmonic patterns.
Theoretical investigations of population trapping phenomena in atomic four-color, three-step photoionization scheme
Authors: Lu 卢 Xiao-Yong 肖勇 , Sun 孙 Ya-Peng 亚鹏
Published: November 2023

The four-color three-step selective photoionization process of atom is very important in laser isotope separation technology. The population trapping phenomena and their influences are studied theoretically in monochromatic and non-monochromatic laser fields based on the density matrix theory in this work. Time evolutions of the photoionization properties of the four-color, three-step process are given. The population trapping effects occur intensely in monochromatic excitation, while it gradually turns weak as the laser bandwidth increases. The effects of bandwidth, Rabi frequency, time delay, and frequency detuning on the population trapping effect are investigated in monochromatic and non-monochromatic laser fields. The effects of laser process parameters and atomic parameters on the effective selective photoionization are also discussed. The ionization probability and selectivity factors, as evaluation indexes, are difficult to improve synchronously by adjusting systematic parameters. Besides, the existence of metastable state may play a negative role when its population is low enough.
Reverse time migration surface offset gathers by attribute migration and constrained least-squares inversion
Authors: Zheng Yingdong , Liu Guofeng
Published: November 2023

Surface offset gathers (SOGs) are crucial for velocity updating in seismic data migration and muting the stretched waveform in shallow parts of migrated seismic data. Kirchhoff-based migration methods can output SOGs because they take every seismic trace as the input. As a result, the imaging results can be rearranged according to the offset value of the input data to obtain SOGs. However, regarding more accurate wave equation methods (such as reverse time migration, RTM), the SOGs cannot be obtained directly with a single migration calculation. Attribute migration is an easy-to-implement method to output SOGs of wave equation migration methods. It calculates the offset value of each imaging point by dividing the migration result modulated by the offset attribute with the conventional migration result. However, the division error may cause the calculation result outside the given offset value. This paper proposes a constrained least-squares inversion method for stable calculation of the RTM offset range. The method ensures that the calculated results are within the given offset range. We tested the method against the direct division and least-squares methods without constraints using the Marmousi model and a real 3D dataset. We show that the SOGs obtained by the constrained least-squares inversion attribute migration method had the same characteristics as those derived using the division-based attribute migration method, but they also had higher vertical resolution, better energy distribution, and improved lateral continuity. In a further study, we expect to develop a stable and direct method to efficiently calculate SOGs for RTM and an iterative closed loop for RTM velocity updating.
Pulsar scintillation through thick and thin: bow shocks, bubbles, and the broader interstellar medium
Authors: Ocker Stella Koch , Cordes James M , Chatterjee Shami , Stinebring Daniel R , Dolch Timothy , Giannakopoulos Christos , Pelgrims Vincent , McKee James W , Reardon Daniel J
Published: November 2023

Observations of pulsar scintillation are among the few astrophysical probes of very small-scale (≲ au) phenomena in the interstellar medium (ISM). In particular, characterization of scintillation arcs, including their curvature and intensity distributions, can be related to interstellar turbulence and potentially overpressurized plasma in local ISM inhomogeneities, such as supernova remnants, H ii regions, and bow shocks. Here we present a survey of eight pulsars conducted at the Five-hundred-metre Aperture Spherical Telescope (FAST), revealing a diverse range of scintillation arc characteristics at high sensitivity. These observations reveal more arcs than measured previously for our sample. At least nine arcs are observed toward B1929+10 at screen distances spanning $\sim 90~{{\ \rm per\ cent}}$ of the pulsar’s 361 pc path length to the observer. Four arcs are observed toward B0355+54, with one arc yielding a screen distance as close as ∼105 au (<1 pc) from either the pulsar or the observer. Several pulsars show highly truncated, low-curvature arcs that may be attributable to scattering near the pulsar. The scattering screen constraints are synthesized with continuum maps of the local ISM and other well-characterized pulsar scintillation arcs, yielding a three-dimensional view of the scattering media in context.
Genetic Modification of a Hox Locus Drives Mimetic Color Pattern Variation in a Highly Polymorphic Bumble Bee
Authors: Yang Wanhu , Cui Jixiang , Chen Yuxin , Wang Chao , Yin Yuanzhi , Zhang Wei , Liu Shanlin , Sun Cheng , Li Hu , Duan Yuange , Song Fan , Cai Wanzhi , Hines Heather M , Tian Li
Published: November 2023

Müllerian mimicry provides natural replicates ideal for exploring mechanisms underlying adaptive phenotypic divergence and convergence, yet the genetic mechanisms underlying mimetic variation remain largely unknown. The current study investigates the genetic basis of mimetic color pattern variation in a highly polymorphic bumble bee, Bombus breviceps (Hymenoptera, Apidae). In South Asia, this species and multiple comimetic species converge onto local Müllerian mimicry patterns by shifting the abdominal setal color from orange to black. Genetic crossing between the orange and black phenotypes suggested the color dimorphism being controlled by a single Mendelian locus, with the orange allele being dominant over black. Genome-wide association suggests that a locus at the intergenic region between 2 abdominal fate-determining Hox genes, abd-A and Abd-B, is associated with the color change. This locus is therefore in the same intergenic region but not the same exact locus as found to drive red black midabdominal variation in a distantly related bumble bee species, Bombus melanopygus. Gene expression analysis and RNA interferences suggest that differential expression of an intergenic long noncoding RNA between abd-A and Abd-B at the onset setal color differentiation may drive the orange black color variation by causing a homeotic shift late in development. Analysis of this same color locus in comimetic species reveals no sequence association with the same color shift, suggesting that mimetic convergence is achieved through distinct genetic routes. Our study establishes Hox regions as genomic hotspots for color pattern evolution in bumble bees and demonstrates how pleiotropic developmental loci can drive adaptive radiations in nature.
Understanding Non-Participation in Armed Groups during the Sri Lankan Civil War
Authors: Meier Larissa Daria
Published: November 2023

This article addresses the question of why individuals do not join armed groups during civil wars. Based on conflict history interviews with non-combatants and former members of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), it singles out the most relevant mechanisms that inform respondents’ non-participation choices: lack of opportunity, embeddedness in disapproving networks, resource activation, resilience, and determination. These mechanisms operate at different levels of analysis and therefore highlight the fundamental importance and interplay of (changing) political contexts, (adjusting) quotidian systems of social ties and individual dispositions in shaping non-participation dynamics and in generating spatio-temporal variation in non-involvement patterns. By analyzing non-participation in armed groups, the article contributes to the growing scholarly interest in the multiple choices and roles individuals take and adopt (beyond engaging in militancy) and elucidates the complex relationship between endogenous conflict dynamics and pre-war structures and dispositions underlying micro-mobilization processes.
Exogenous GDNF promotes peripheral facial nerve regeneration in rats through the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway
Authors: Fei Jing , Chen Shujin , Song Xuecheng , Liang Yunhong , Duan Kunling , Peng Xiaowen , Li Leiji
Published: November 2023

Facial nerve regeneration still lacks a well‐defined and practical clinical intervention. The survival of central facial motoneuron is a critical component in the successful peripheral facial nerve regeneration. Endogenous GDNF is vital for facial nerve regeneration according to earlier investigations. Nevertheless, the low endogenous GDNF level makes it challenging to achieve therapeutic benefits. Thus, we crushed the main trunk of facial nerve in SD rats to provide a model of peripheral facial paralysis, and we administered exogenous GDNF and Rapa treatments. We observed changes in the animal behavior scores, the morphology of facial nerve and buccinator muscle, the electrophysiological of facial nerve, and the expression of GDNF, GAP‐43, and PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway‐related molecules in the facial motoneurons. We discovered that GDNF could boost axon regeneration, hasten the recovery of facial paralysis symptoms and nerve conduction function, and increase the expression of GDNF, GAP‐43, and PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway‐related molecules in the central facial motoneurons. Therefore, exogenous GDNF injection into the buccinator muscle can enhance facial nerve regeneration following crushing injury and protect facial neurons via the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway. This will offer a fresh perspective and theoretical foundation for the management of clinical facial nerve regeneration.
Comparison of Outcomes at Midterm Follow-up of Operatively and Non-Operatively Treated Isolated Weber B Ankle Fractures
Authors: Ge Laurence , Perdue Aaron M. , Hake Mark E. , Talusan Paul G. , Holmes James R. , Walton David M.
Published: November 2023

OBJECTIVE:

A novel protocol was previously presented for non-operative management of Weber B (OTA/AO 44B) ankle fractures with criteria of medial clear space (MCS) <7mm on gravity stress (GS) radiographs and ipsilateral superior clear space and contralateral GS MCS within 2mm. This study recruited an operative cohort for comparison of outcomes.

METHODS:

Design:

Retrospective cohort study

Setting:

Level 1 academic center

Patient Selection Criteria:

The recruited operative cohort consisted of patients who may have been considered for the non-operative protocol but underwent surgery instead.

Outcome Measures and Comparisons: Kellgren-Lawrence scale for evaluation of arthritis, American Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) Hindfoot, Olerud Molander Ankle (OMA), Lower Extremity Functional Scale (LEFS), and PROMIS (physical function, depression, pain interference) scores for the current operative cohort were compared to that of the original non-operative cohort.

RESULTS:

There were 20 patients in the operative cohort and 29 in the original non-operative cohort. Mean follow-up was 6.9 and 6.7 years, respectively. The following outcome scores were better for the non-operative cohort compared to the operative, respectively: LEFS, 75.2 and 68.1 (p=0.009); OMA, 94.1 and 89.0 (p=0.05); AOFAS, 98.5 and 91.7 (p=0.0003); PROMIS Physical Function, 58.2 and 50.4 (p=0.01); PROMIS Pain Interference, 42.2 and 49.7 (p=0.004). The PROMIS Depression, 42.8 and 45.4 (p=0.29), was not different between groups. All patients achieved union of their fracture. Surgical complications included implant removal (15%), SPN neurapraxia (5%), and delayed wound healing (5%).

CONCLUSIONS:

In carefully selected patients with isolated Weber B fractures, non-operative management may be considered as it can lead to equivalent or superior outcomes with none of the risks typically associated with surgical intervention.
Dietary intake and serum levels of copper and zinc and risk of hepatocellular carcinoma: A matched case-control study
Authors: Liu Xiaozhan , Zhang Yaojun , Yishake Dinuerguli , Luo Yan , Liu Zhaoyan , Chen Yuming , Zhu Huilian , Fang Aiping
Published: November 2023

Background:

Copper and zinc are involved in the development of multiple malignancies; yet, epidemiological evidence on hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is limited. This study aimed to investigate the association between dietary intake and serum levels of copper and zinc with the risk of HCC.

Methods:

A total of 434 case-control pairs matched for sex and age (±1 year) were included in this study. Cases with newly diagnosed HCC were from the Guangdong Liver Cancer Cohort (GLCC) study, and healthy controls were from the Guangzhou Nutrition and Health Study (GNHS). A semi-quantitative 79-item food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) was used to assess habitual dietary intakes of copper and zinc. Serum levels of copper and zinc were measured by using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. The copper (Cu)/ zinc (Zn) ratio was computed by dividing copper levels by zinc levels. Conditional logistic regression models were performed to calculate the odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for per 1 standard deviation increase (per-SD increase) in copper and zinc levels.

Results:

Higher dietary intake (ORper-SD increase = 0.65, 95% CI: 0.44, 0.96, P
trend = 0.029) and serum levels of zinc (ORper-SD increase = 0.11, 95% CI: 0.04, 0.30, P
trend <0.001) were both associated with a lower risk of HCC. Subgroup analyses showed that the inverse association was only pronounced in men but not in women (P
interaction = 0.041 for dietary zinc intake and 0.010 for serum zinc levels). Serum copper levels (ORper-SD increase = 2.05, 95% CI: 1.39, 3.03, P
trend = 0.020) and serum Cu/Zn ratio (ORper-SD increase = 6.53, 95% CI: 2.52, 16.92, P
trend<0.001) were positively associated with HCC risk, while dietary copper intake and dietary Cu/Zn ratio were not associated with HCC risk.

Conclusion:

Zinc may be a protective factor for HCC, especially among men, but the effects of copper on HCC risk are not clear.
Strategy and technique for surgical treatment of Ebstein's anomaly
Authors: Wu Qingyu , Zhang Xiaoya , Zhang Mingkui , Li Hongyin , Zhang Dongya , Wang Lianyi , Wu Qingfeng
Published: November 2023

Background:

Ebstein's anomaly (EA) is a rare and complex congenital heart anomaly, and the effect of surgical treatment is not ideal. This study aims to introduce our experience in management strategies, surgical techniques, and operative indications for patients with Ebstein's anomaly.

Methods:

A retrospective study of 258 operations was performed in 253 patients by the same cardiac surgeon in The First Hospital of Tsinghua University between March 2004 and January 2020. 32 patients had previously received cardiac surgery in other hospitals. The clinical data including diagnosis, operative indications, techniques, pathological changes, and survival rates were collected and analyzed.

Results:

Anatomical correction was performed in 203 (78.7%) operations, 1½ ventricle repair in 38 (14.7%) operations, tricuspid valve repair only in four operations (1.6%), tricuspid valve replacement in ten (3.9%), total cavopulmonary connection (TCPC) in two (0.8%), and Glenn operation in one operation (0.4%). Reoperation was performed in five patients (2.0%) during hospitalization. Among them, tricuspid valve replacement was performed in one patient, 1½ ventricle repair in two patients, and tricuspid valve annulus reinforcement in two patients. Five patients died with an early mortality rate of 2.0%. Complete atrioventricular conduction block was complicated in one patient (0.4%). A total of 244 patients was followed up (four in the 253 patients lost) with a duration of 3.0–168.0 (87.6 ± 38.4) months. Cardiac function of 244 patients improved significantly with mean New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional class recovery from 3.5 to 1.1. The mean grade of tricuspid valve regurgitation improved from 3.6 to 1.5. Three late deaths (1.2%) occurred. The survival rates at five and ten years after surgery were 98.6% and 98.2%, respectively. Reoperation was performed in five patients (2.0%) during the follow-up period.

Conclusion:

Based on our management strategies and operative principles and techniques, anatomical correction of EA is capable of achieving excellent long-term results, and low rates of TCPC, 1½ ventricle repair and valvular replacement.
Probiotics intervention in colorectal cancer: From traditional approaches to novel strategies
Authors: Ha Suki , Zhang Xiang , Yu Jun
Published: November 2023

The intestine harbors a large population of microorganisms that interact with epithelial cells to maintain host healthy physiological status. These intestinal microbiota engage in the fermentation of non-digestible nutrients and produce beneficial metabolites to regulate host homeostasis, metabolism, and immune response. The disruption of microbiota, known as dysbiosis, has been implicated in many intestinal diseases, including colorectal cancer (CRC). As the third most common cancer and the second leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide, CRC poses a significant health burden. There is an urgent need for novel interventions to reduce CRC incidence and improve clinical outcomes. Modulating the intestinal microbiota has emerged as a promising approach for CRC prevention and treatment. Current research efforts in CRC probiotics primarily focus on reducing the incidence of CRC, alleviating treatment-related side effects, and potentiating the efficacy of anticancer therapy, which is the key to successful translation to clinical practice. This paper aims to review the traditional probiotics and new interventions, such as next-generation probiotics and postbiotics, in the context of CRC. The underlying mechanisms of probiotic anti-cancer effects are also discussed, including the restoration of microbial composition, reinforcement of gut barrier integrity, induction of cancer cell apoptosis, inactivation of carcinogens, and modulation of host immune response. This paper further evaluates the novel strategy of probiotics as an adjuvant therapy in boosting the efficacy of chemotherapy and immunotherapy. Despite all the promising findings presented in studies, the evaluation of potential risks, optimization of delivery methods, and consideration of intra-patient variability of gut microbial baseline must be thoroughly interpreted before bench-to-bedside translation.
Nurses' Versus Physicians' Perceptions of the Bedside Handover Practice in the Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Mahran Ghada Shalaby Khalaf , Ali Mostafa , Sayed Magdy Mohamed Mahdy , Hussien Mahmoud Ahmed Mohamed , AbdelWahab Omar Sherif Ahmed , Mohamed Sherif Ahmed AbdelWahab , Abdelhafez Amal Ismael
Published: November 2023

This article reports a prospective, comparative study using a semistructured interview technique, to compare the perceptions of nursing professionals and physicians about the bedside handover practice, in intensive care units (ICUs). Clinical handovers are practiced every day, in many ways, in all institutional health care settings. Despite increasing demand for structured processes to guide clinical handovers, the perception may differ between nurses and physicians, particularly in the ICU. The results of the current study showed that the quality of the information provided during handovers was perceived by both the nurses and physicians as satisfactory and relevant to the patient's care. The findings of this study could have impacts on the daily medical practices in the ICU. The results of this study could be utilized to design programs that will improve nurses' and physicians' understanding and practices of the handover process as well as the information needed to be communicated.