bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ultrasound‐Guided Thermal Ablation Versus Thyroidectomy in the Treatment of Benign Thyroid Nodules
Authors: Qafesha Ruaa Mustafa , Kashbour Muataz , Amro Sarah , Hindawi Mahmoud Diaa , Elbadry Menna , Ghalwash Asem Ahmed , Alnatsheh Zeinab , Abdelaziz Mahmoud A.Y , Eldeeb Hatem , Shiha Ahmad Ramzi
Published: December 2024

Ultrasound‐guided thermal ablation (TA) is a minimally invasive intervention for treating benign thyroid nodules (BTNs). This meta‐analysis aims to systematically compare the safety and efficacy of ultrasound‐guided TA with surgery in treating BTNs. Relevant studies were identified through searching electronic databases. Included studies focused on comparing TA for BTNs with surgical resection. Primary endpoints encompassed length of hospital stay, procedure time, symptom improvement, cosmetic score, and excellent cosmetic results. Other outcomes include all complications (hypothyroidism, hoarseness, hematoma, blood loss, wound infection, parathyroid injury, chocking, or cough), recurrence, postoperative pain, visual analog scale (VAS) score, scar length, thyroid hormone levels, and finally stress response outcomes. Twenty‐six studies (7 randomized controlled trials and 19 cohort studies) were included. Our findings revealed that TA was associated with shorter hospital stays (MD = −3.30, 95% CI [−3.82, −2.79], P < .00001), reduced procedure time (MD = −47.75, 95% CI [−54.89, −40.61] P < .00001), superior cosmetic outcomes (RR = 1.11, 95% CI [1.00, 1.22], P = .04), lower postoperative pain levels, and lower VAS score. Additionally, surgical resection was linked to a higher incidence of hoarseness, hypothyroidism, parathyroid injury, and blood loss. However, no significant differences were observed in rates of wound infection, hematoma, or recurrence between the two treatment modalities. Our meta‐analysis suggests that ultrasound‐guided TA represents a viable alternative to surgery for treating BTNs, especially for patients unwilling or unable to undergo surgical intervention. This technique was found to be safe and effective. However, future evidence is mandatory to establish TA to a specific type of nodule, to preserve patients from second interventions.
Great Lakes mallard population dynamics
Authors: Luukkonen Benjamin Z. , Winterstein Scott R. , Hayes Daniel B. , Fowler Drew N. , Soulliere Gregory J. , Coluccy John M. , Shipley Amy A. , Simpson John , Shirkey Brendan , Winiarski Jason M. , O'Neal Benjamin J. , Avers Barbara A. , Urquhart Gerald R. , Lavretsky Philip
Published: December 2024

Breeding mallard (Anas platyrhynchos) populations in the Great Lakes region (Michigan, Minnesota, Wisconsin, USA) declined by >40% between 2000–2022 based on abundance data collected during spring aerial surveys. Mallards are an important waterfowl species in this region, where an estimated 60–80% of the mallard harvest is composed of locally banded birds. Extensive population monitoring datasets are available for mallards, presenting an opportunity to address complex questions such as estimating productivity at large spatial and temporal scales, identifying the effects of harvest on mallard demography, quantifying mechanisms for harvest compensation, and integrating multiple datasets to quantify the demographic drivers of population change. Our objective was to simultaneously examine factors affecting demographic parameters and their relative contribution to Great Lakes mallard population dynamics. We used 32 years of banding, band recovery, and aerial survey data collected for mallards from Michigan and Wisconsin to develop an integrated population model (IPM). We used age ratios at banding to estimate productivity, band recoveries from hunter‐harvested birds to estimate annual survival and cause‐specific mortality (i.e., harvest or non‐hunting), and modeled abundance using aerial survey and demographic parameter estimates from 1991–2022. The IPM results indicated the decline in Great Lakes mallard abundance was caused by increased non‐hunting mortality and a decline in productivity. Productivity varied spatially but temporally declined with the loss of Conservation Reserve Program area. Moreover, our productivity assessment provided evidence of density dependence in reproduction. Non‐hunting mortality was 3.5–6.7 times and 1.3–4.2 times greater than harvest mortality for adult and juvenile female mallards, respectively, indicating environmental factors during spring and summer, not harvest, most greatly influenced annual mortality for female mallards. Our IPM reduced uncertainty in the factors affecting Great Lakes mallard population dynamics and indicated management actions that address non‐hunting mortality and productivity would be most effective in increasing Great Lakes mallard abundance.
Hydrogen‐Sensitive Inks with 4D Printing of a Fiber‐Tip Hydrogen Microsensor
Authors: Liao Changrui , Huang Haoqiang , Zou Mengqiang , Wang Ying , Jiang Shangben , Zhu Dezhi , Huang Jiabin , Guan Jiajun , Wang Famei , Zhao Cong , Zheng Mengjie , Bao Weijia , Liu Dejun , Weng Xiaoyu , Liu Liwei , Qu Junle , Wang Yiping
Published: December 2024

Optical fiber hydrogen (H2) sensors have garnered attention for avoiding explosion hazards in flammable gas environments. Conventional optical fiber sensors rely on electron beam sputtering and chemical coating for functionalization, but these methods may not achieve precise functionalization of intricate structures. Based on 4D printing principles, an H2‐sensitive ink containing methacrylate groups modified palladium (Pd) nanoparticles (NPs) is reported, with a printing resolution of 200 nm. Then, a fiber‐tip clamped‐beam H2 sensor is fabricated with the femtosecond (Fs) laser‐induced two‐photon polymerization (TPP) technique. The sensor exhibits compact dimensions and fast responses, only 2.64 s for a 4.0 vol.% H2 concentration. A high sensitivity of roughly 165 pm %−1 is achieved as the H2 concentration increases from 0% to 5.5 vol.%. This study demonstrates that H2‐sensitive microstructures can be flexibly achieved by TPP of H2‐sensitive inks, offering a solution for achieving on‐chip direct laser writing of integrated H2 microsensors.
Authenticity and Conflicting Identity Goals: How Consumers Protect Their “Authentic Self” While Consuming Inauthentic Marketplace Offerings
Authors: Min Hyun Jeong
Published: December 2024

This study examined how consumers achieve their desired authenticity when tension arises between their individual and collective identity goals. Insa‐dong, a popular tourist attraction in Seoul, was chosen as a conducive research setting to examine conflicting identity goals given that the place has been criticized as inauthentic by many consumers while often touted as a must‐visit tourist attraction for experiencing traditional Korean culture. The primary data were collected through in‐depth interviews and focus groups with 24 native Korean individuals with prior experience in Insa‐dong. Additionally, promotional materials, relevant mass media content, and TripAdvisor reviews were included as supplemental data. The analysis revealed the tension between different goals based on multiplicity in the self and two main strategies to maintain one's desired identity while performing socially expected roles. Based on these findings, the present study demonstrated that the quest for authenticity is a social endeavor enmeshed with various social roles with their accompanying expectations and obligations. Additionally, the current study expands the understanding of authenticity in consumer experience by identifying middle‐ground strategies between downright resistance and conjuring the perception of authenticity.
Reducing Nitrogen Waste: Factors Influencing Neem‐Coated Urea Adoption in Bhutan
Authors: Begho Toritseju , Dorji Tashi , Dendup Sonam
Published: December 2024

In Bhutan, farmers face constraints due to limited arable land, prompting a need to increase agricultural production per unit of inputs, but in the most sustainable way given the nation’s most stringent environmental conservation laws. This study investigates the factors influencing the adoption of an enhanced‐efficiency fertiliser, that is, neem‐coated urea (NCU). Analysing data from 235 farmers using a double hurdle regression model, the paper identified several positive drivers of NCU adoption, including multiple plots, larger farm size, organic fertiliser use, recent agricultural training, and seeking advice on fertiliser decisions. Conversely, factors such as irrigation, crop demonstration attendance, machinery subsidies, rigid fertiliser usage adherence, perceived difficulty in handling fertilisers, and attitudes towards soil and crop management hinder adoption. Older farmers exhibit higher adoption rates, potentially due to accumulated knowledge, while male farmers surpass their female counterparts in adoption rates, reflecting existing gender disparities in NCU adoption. These findings offer insights for policymakers, extension services, and agricultural stakeholders to tailor interventions for promoting NCU adoption, thereby mitigating nitrogen waste and pollution in crop production.
Patient‐specific mapping of fundus photographs to three‐dimensional ocular imaging
Authors: Haasjes Corné , Vu T. H. Khanh , Beenakker Jan‐Willem M.
Published: December 2024

Background

Ocular proton beam therapy (OPT) planning would benefit from an accurate incorporation of fundus photographs, as various intra‐ocular structures, such as the fovea, are not visible on conventional modalities such as Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). However, the use of fundus photographs in OPT is limited, as the eye's optics induce a nonuniform patient‐specific deformation to the images.

Purpose

To develop a method to accurately map fundus photographs to three‐dimensional images.

Methods

Personalized optical raytracing simulations were performed for 27 subjects, using subject‐specific eye models based on corneal topography, biometry, and MRI. Light rays were traced through the eye for angles of 0°–85° with respect to the optical axis, in steps of 5°. These simulations provided a reference mapping between camera angles and retinal locations and were used to develop a mapping method without raytracing. The accuracy of this and earlier proposed methods was evaluated. Finally, the most accurate method was implemented in RayOcular, an image‐based OPT planning system, and the fundus photography‐based tumor contour was compared with MRI.

Results

When a patient‐specific second nodal point is taken as a reference to describe the retinal location, the camera, and retinal angles show a strong linear relation with a small variation between subjects. At a camera angle of 60°, for example, a corresponding retinal angle of 59.9° ± 0.4° (mean ± SD) was found. When this linear relation is used to predict the corresponding retinal location (without raytracing) of a camera angle of 40°, the mean (Euclidian distance) error in the retinal location was 0.02 mm (SD = 0.06 mm), which was significantly (p < 0.001) lower than earlier proposed methods including EYEPLAN 4.16 mm (SD = 0.25 mm), the Lamberth projection −0.12 mm (SD = 0.46 mm) or polar projection 0.26 mm (SD = 0.57 mm). When implemented in the fundus view of RayOcular, the median distance between contours based on MRI and fundus photography was 0.2 mm (IQR = 0.1–0.3 mm).

Conclusions

The second nodal point provides a patient‐specific reference for an accurate mapping of fundus photographs to three‐dimensional images with sub‐millimeter errors.
Stage‐specific transcriptome profiling highlights key modules associated with structurally conserved secreted proteins in Puccinia polysora infection of maize
Authors: Guo Yuanwen , Liu Yuyan , Mei Jie , Jiao Zeyu , Yang Yan , Liu Wende
Published: December 2024

Southern corn rust (SCR), caused by the biotrophic fungal pathogen Puccinia polysora, is a globally significant disease that poses a severe threat to maize production, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions. Despite its economic importance, many aspects of the molecular interactions between P. polysora and maize remain poorly understood. In this study, we performed stage‐specific transcriptome profiling to explore gene expression dynamics during key phases of P. polysora infection: conidia formation, spore germination, penetration, and colonization. We identified and characterized co‐regulated modules of effector proteins that are critical for successful host infection. Utilizing AlphaFold3, we identified structurally conserved proteins co‐expressed throughout the infection process. Notably, Cluster 7, a structurally conserved protein group, exhibited uniquely peak expression during the penetration stage, suggesting a pivotal role in overcoming host defenses. This research offers new insights into the molecular processes involved in P. polysora infection and provides a valuable resource for developing novel strategies to mitigate the global impact of SCR.
Factors Influencing Shoulder Joint Function in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Following Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair: A Mixed‐Methods Study
Authors: Zhang Ming , Zhang Huaixia , Zheng Jun
Published: December 2024

To identify the influencing factors of shoulder joint function after Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair (ARCR) in patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM). A sequential explanatory mixed‐methods design was conducted. Participants were recruited from the Northern Jiangsu People's Hospital from January 2023 to May 2023. Quantitative data were collected using the Constant‐Murley Shoulder Joint Function Score, the General Self‐Efficacy Scale, and the Perceived Social Support Scale. A total of 134 patients were recruited (120 participants for questionnaire survey, 14 participants for interview). Spearman's correlations were performed to initially identify the influencing factors of shoulder joint function. Qualitative data were collected through face‐to‐face interviews with 14 patients. To understand patients' experiences during the process of shoulder joint recovery, interpretative phenomenological analysis was employed. The triangulation was conducted using convergence coding matrix. Three themes and seven sub‐themes were identified, including capability (postoperative pain management, self‐management of T2DM), opportunity (medical supports, perceived social and family supports, demands of economic supports), and motivation (sense of benefits, psychological motivation). The recovery of shoulder joint function in patients with T2DM following ARCR is influenced by factors related to capability, opportunity, and motivation. Healthcare providers should enhance the timing and content of educational interventions and provide intensive psychological support to facilitate successful behavior change and optimize shoulder joint recovery in this patient population. The findings of this study can inform the development of an optimized care model for patients with T2DM following ARCR, empowering them to take control of their condition. Considering the long‐term challenges of rehabilitation, which present physical and psychological difficulties for patients, it is essential to design interventions strategies that address physiological decline and pain management.
DNA methylation in cord blood partially mediates the effects of prepregnancy BMI on early childhood offspring BMI
Authors: Maguolo Alice , Jönsson Josefine , Perfilyev Alexander , Maziarz Marlena , Vaag Allan , Malchau Carlsen Emma , Nørgaard Kirsten , Franks Paul W. , Renault Kristina M. , Ling Charlotte
Published: December 2024

Objective

We investigated whether prepregnancy BMI (prePregBMI) in women with obesity was associated with differential DNA methylation (DNAm) in cord blood (CB) and whether DNAm may mediate the association of prePregBMI and early childhood BMI z score (BMIz).

Methods

From the Treatment of Obese Pregnant Women (TOP) study, 232 mother–child pairs were included. We conducted an epigenome‐wide association study on prePregBMI and CB DNAm (450k array), followed by causal mediation analyses to test whether DNAm may mediate effects of prePregBMI on  BMIz at age 36 months (BMIz36).

Results

DNAm at 5345 CpG sites annotated to 2842 genes, which were overrepresented in biological processes linked to carbohydrate metabolism and plasma lipoprotein particle clearance, was associated with prePregBMI (false discovery rate < 10%). Causal mediation analyses of 168 methylation sites associated with BMIz36 (p < 0.05) and overlapping with the 5345 prePregBMI‐associated sites identified two sites on SYT7 and DEAF1, partially mediating the effect of prePregBMI on BMIz36 (p ≤ 0.01). After cross‐validation, a methylation risk score including these two sites could predict the highest quartile of BMIz36 and fat mass (in grams) with area under the curve = 0.72 (95% CI: 0.58–0.85) and area under the curve = 0.71 (95% CI: 0.58–0.85), respectively.

Conclusions

CB DNAm at birth may partially mediate effects of prePregBMI on early childhood BMIz36, supporting its plausible role in influencing individual future obesity risk.
American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery (AAO‐HNS) Report on Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Ayoub Noel F. , Rameau Anaïs , Brenner Michael J. , Bur Andrés M. , Ator Gregory A. , Briggs Selena E. , Takashima Masayoshi , Stankovic Konstantina M. ,   AAO‐HNS Artificial Intelligence Task Force
Published: December 2024

This report synthesizes the American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery (AAO‐HNS) Task Force's guidance on the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in otolaryngology–head and neck surgery (OHNS). A comprehensive literature review was conducted, focusing on the applications, benefits, and challenges of AI in OHNS, alongside ethical, legal, and social implications. The Task Force, formulated by otolaryngologist experts in AI, used an iterative approach, adapted from the Delphi method, to prioritize topics for inclusion and to reach a consensus on guiding principles. The Task Force's findings highlight AI's transformative potential for OHNS, offering potential advancements in precision medicine, clinical decision support, operational efficiency, research, and education. However, challenges such as data quality, health equity, privacy concerns, transparency, regulatory gaps, and ethical dilemmas necessitate careful navigation. Incorporating AI into otolaryngology practice in a safe, equitable, and patient‐centered manner requires clinician judgment, transparent AI systems, and adherence to ethical and legal standards. The Task Force principles underscore the importance of otolaryngologists' involvement in AI's ethical development, implementation, and regulation to harness benefits while mitigating risks. The proposed principles inform the integration of AI in otolaryngology, aiming to enhance patient outcomes, clinician well‐being, and efficiency of health care delivery.
Hepatotoxicity Score: A New Method to Adjust for Use of Potentially Hepatotoxic Medications by Chronic Liver Disease Status
Authors: Lo Re Vincent , Newcomb Craig W. , Carbonari Dean M. , Mezochow Alyssa K. , Hennessy Sean , Rentsch Christopher T. , Park Lesley S. , Tate Janet P. , Bräu Norbert , Bhattacharya Debika , Lim Joseph K. , Mezzacappa Catherine , Njei Basile , Roy Jason A. , Taddei Tamar H. , Justice Amy C. , Torgersen Jessie
Published: December 2024

Background

Studies evaluating the hepatic safety of medications have been limited by the inability to control for confounding from receipt of other hepatotoxic drugs.

Objective

The objective of this study was to develop an index (Hepatotoxicity Score) to adjust for concomitant hepatotoxic medication exposure within pharmacoepidemiology studies.

Methods

We identified 193 medications with ≥ 4 reports of hepatotoxicity and created cohorts of outpatient initiators in the Veterans Health Administration (2000–2021). Exposure occurred from initiation through 30 days after discontinuation or up to 1 year. We measured age‐/sex‐adjusted rates of hospitalization for severe acute liver injury (ALI) by chronic liver disease (CLD), identified drugs with high rates, and used these rates as weights in the score. To demonstrate real‐world use, we calculated the score for proton pump inhibitor (PPI) initiators. We summed the weights of the drugs dispensed within 90 days prior to PPI initiation. Hazard ratios (HRs) of severe ALI (95% confidence intervals) were measured with and without adjustment for Hepatotoxicity Score.

Results

Among 89 512 PPI initiators with CLD, HRs of severe ALI were higher for lansoprazole (HR = 2.17 [95% CI, 1.24–3.82]), but not pantoprazole (HR = 0.83 [95% CI, 0.61–1.13]), versus omeprazole. Adjustment for Hepatotoxicity Score attenuated HRs of lansoprazole (HR = 1.99 [95% CI, 1.13–3.50]). Among 2 462 414 PPI initiators without CLD, HRs were not significantly higher for lansoprazole (HR = 1.66 [95% CI, 0.99–2.77]) but were significantly lower for pantoprazole (HR = 0.59 [95% CI, 0.37–0.95]), versus omeprazole. Adjustment for Hepatotoxicity Score attenuated HRs of lansoprazole (HR = 1.52 [95% CI, 0.91–2.54]).

Conclusions

The Hepatotoxicity Score provides a tool to adjust for confounding due to concomitant hepatotoxic drug exposure within hepatic safety studies.
Antibiotic Utilization Among People With Multiple Sclerosis in the Netherlands, 2018–2020
Authors: Leung Melissa W. Y. , Bazelier Marloes T. , Uitdehaag Bernard M. J. , De Jong Hilda J. I. , Klungel Olaf H. , van de Garde Ewoudt M. W.
Published: December 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to describe the intensity and patterns of antibiotic drug use among people with multiple sclerosis (pwMS) in the Netherlands.

Methods

People with prevalent MS between 1 January 2018 and 31 December 2020 were identified using ambulatory hospital records from the PHARMO Database Network that contains routinely collected healthcare data from the Netherlands. Out‐patient pharmacy dispensing data were used to assess type of antibiotic, dosage, and amounts dispensed. Antibiotic intensity in defined daily doses (DDD)/1000 patient‐days (PD) was calculated together with frequency of dispensing of the same (prolongation) or different (switch) antibiotic up to 3 days after the end of the last antibiotic prescription; and stratified by sex, age, polypharmacy (use of > 4 out‐patient prescription drugs for > 29 days), type of disease‐modifying treatment, and Sars‐CoV‐2‐related lockdown.

Results

A total of 1960 (37.8%) out of 5179 pwMS were dispensed ≥ 1 antibiotic. Of the 8762 dispensing events, 27.6%% were part of a prolongation, and 16.3% of a switch. Overall antibiotic use among pwMS was 18.8 DDD/1000 PD (95% confidence interval [95% CI]: 18.7–19.0) compared to 7.77–8.90 DDD/1000 PD in the general out‐patient population, as reported by the Dutch Working Party on Antibiotic Policy. Antibiotic use was higher among women, increased with age, and was higher in people with polypharmacy and lower during lockdown. Nitrofurantoin was the most commonly dispensed antibiotic (41.7%).

Conclusions

The intensity of antibiotic use is considerably higher among pwMS than the general population. This reflects the burden of infection in this susceptible population.
Perceived Shame and Stigma, and Other Psychosocial Predictors of Psychological Distress Among Cancer Patients in Malaysia
Authors: Eyu Hui Ting , Nik Jaafar Nik Ruzyanei , Leong Abdullah Mohammad Farris Iman , Salleh Salimi Hajar Mohd , Mohamad Yunus Mohd Razif , Ismail Fuad , Ab Muin Nur Fa'izah , Abdul Aziz Noor Syazwani
Published: December 2024

Background

Patients' sociodemographic factors, clinical characteristics, distress factors, perceived shame and stigma may give rise to psychological distress in cancer patients that bring about further psychosocial impact.

Aims

(1) to determine the degrees of shame and stigma towards cancer and psychological distress among cancer patients in Malaysia and (2) to examine the clinical and psychosocial predictors of psychological distress.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study recruited a total of 217 cancer patients. The participants were administered the sociodemographic and clinical characteristics questionnaires, the Malay version of the Shame and Stigma Scale (SSS‐M) to assess for the degree of cancer shame and stigma, and the Malay version of the Distress Thermometer and Problem List to assess for presence of psychological distress and identify its sources.

Results

There was a significant level of shame and stigma among cancer patients with the total mean SSS‐M score of 12.08 (SD = 6.09). Anger (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 11.97, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 2.96–86.8, p = 0.001), loss of interest or enjoyment (AOR = 14.84, 95% CI = 2.93–75.20, p = 0.001), loneliness (AOR = 8.10, 95% CI = 1.13–58.02, p = 0.001), feeling of worthlessness or being a burden (AOR = 6.24, 95% CI = 1.32–29.59, p = 0.021), fear (AOR = 4.52, 95% CI = 1.79–11.43, p = 0.001), pain (AOR = 4.07, 95% CI = 1.53–10.82, p = 0.005), financial constraint (AOR = 2.95, 95% CI = 1.22–7.13, p = 0.016), and having regret (AOR = 1.89, 95% CI = 1.03–3.79, p = 0.039) increased the odds of developing psychological distress.

Conclusion

Treating clinicians should monitor for and provide psychosocial interventions for the biopsychosocial factors which may worsen psychological distress among cancer patients.
Geographical Origin, Internal Migration and Labour Market Attainment: An Analysis of Employment Opportunities and Class Attainment Among Italian Men and Women
Authors: Panichella Nazareno
Published: December 2024

This article examines how the uneven development of Southern and Northern Italian occupational structures influences the occupational outcomes of Southern, Northern and internal migrants. By employing a gender‐sensitive approach and analysing the distribution of the effects of geographical mobility on occupational attainment over the life course, the study enhances understanding of the interplay between social and geographical factors contributing to social inequality. The findings reveal that the South–North dualism significantly affects employment opportunities, with Northern Italians enjoying substantial advantages, particularly among women. Contrary to international literature suggesting that internal migration benefits men but harms women, this study finds positive outcomes for both genders. However, while male internal migrants experience immediate employment returns in the labour market, increasing their chances of being in both the white‐collar and working classes, female internal migrants integrate more gradually and face a higher likelihood of being employed in the working class.
Forming‐Free ZnO‐Based Resistive Random Access Memory with Supercritical Fluid Hydrogenation Technique
Authors: Chou Sheng‐Yao , Chen Po‐Hsun , Chen Ming‐Chen , Chang Ting‐Chang , Wang Yu‐Bo , Tu Hong‐Yi , Zhang Yong‐Ci , Wu Chung‐Wei , Yeh Yu‐Hsuan , Tsai Tsung‐Ming , Huang Yu‐Ching , Chen Yi Huang
Published: December 2024

Herein, the supercritical hydrogen treatment is proposed to improve the performance of zinc oxide‐based resistive random access memory. After treatment, the treated device not only achieves the forming‐free characteristic but also gets enhanced in its memory window, reset voltage, and reliability. Moreover, X‐Ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis confirms the forming‐free characteristic of the treated device since the treatment decreases the concentration of ZnO bonding in the zinc oxide thin film, leading the conductive filament to be constructed in the zinc oxide switching layer. Next, the carrier transport mechanism is investigated by fitting current–voltage curves. Finally, the physical models based on the electrical properties and the material analyses are introduced to illustrate the oxygen ions and hydroxide ions that create the forming‐free characteristic and better memory characteristics in the random access memory device after the supercritical fluid treatment. Hence, this method demonstrates the promising practical and effective utilization of enhancing memory devices, in the future.
Integrative multi‐omics reveals the mechanism of ulcerative colitis treated with Ma‐Mu‐Ran antidiarrheal capsules
Authors: Huang Hailing , Duan Bailu , Huang Zhuang , Wang Shanshan , Wen Yuxin , Jiang Qi , Chen Pengyu , Huang Ping , Liu Jiajing , Zheng Sili , Ye Yan , Zhang Dongning , Wang Qiong , Huang Fang , Li Jingjing , Han Lintao
Published: December 2024

Rationale

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory gastrointestinal disease typically coexisting with intestinal microbiota dysbiosis, oxidative stress, and an inflammatory response. Although its underlying mechanism of action is unclear, Ma‐Mu‐Ran Antidiarrheal Capsules (MMRAC) have demonstrated significant therapeutic efficacy for UC.

Methods

The mechanism of action of MMRAC in the treatment of UC model was investigated by combining metabolomics, transcriptomics, and intestinal microbiota detection techniques.

Results

The high‐dose group of MMRAC was determined as the best therapeutic dose by pathological changes and biochemical indexes. Transcriptome analysis revealed that 360 genes were differentially altered after MMRAC treatment. Metabolomic analysis using colon tissue yielded 14 colon tissue metabolites with significant differences. Intestinal flora analysis showed that 26 major microorganisms were identified at the genus level.

Conclusions

Based on a thorough multi‐omics analysis of transcriptomics, metabolomics, and gut flora, it was determined that MMRAC regulated cysteine and methionine metabolism, arginine biosynthesis, and sphingolipid metabolism and their respective genes BHMT, PHGDH, iNOS, and SPHK1, which in turn served to inhibit UC‐generated inflammatory responses and oxidative stress. Additionally, MMRAC regulated the abundance of Coprococcus, Helicobacter, Sutterella, Paraprevotella, and Roseburia in the intestinal tracts of UC mice, which was regulated toward normal levels, thereby restoring normal intestinal function.
A Redox‐Triggered Polymeric Nanoparticle for Disrupting Redox Homeostasis and Enhanced Ferroptosis
Authors: Li Yifei , Han Shangcong , Zhao Yi , Yan Jianqin , Luo Kui , Li Fashun , He Bin , Sun Yong , Li Fan , Liang Yan
Published: December 2024

Cancer cells possess an efficient redox system, enabling them to withstand oxidative damage induced by treatments, especially in hypoxia areas and ferroptosis can disrupt redox homeostasis in cancer cell. Herein, GSH‐sensitive nanoparticles are constructed that induce ferroptosis by long‐lasting GSH depletion and enhanced PDT. Carbonic anhydrase IX inhibitor, protoporphyrin IX (Por) complexed with Fe and epirubicin (EPI) are grafted to hyaluronic acid (HA) via disulfide bonds to obtain HSPFE and loaded xCT inhibitor SAS for fabricating SAS@HSPFE which is actively targeted to deep hypoxic tumor cells, and explosively releasing EPI, Por‐Fe complex and SAS due to at high GSH concentration. Specifically, SAS inhibited the GSH biosynthesis, and the generation of ROS by Por and the involvement of Fe2+ in the Fenton reaction jointly facilitates oxidative stress. Besides, Fe2+ reacted with excess H2O2 to produce O2, which continuously fuels PDT. GPX4 and SLC7A11 related to antioxidant defense are down‐regulated, while ACSL4 and TFRC promoting lipid peroxidation and ROS accumulation are up‐regulated, which enhanced ferroptosis by amplifying oxidative stress and suppressing antioxidant defense. SAS@HSPFE NPs revealed highly efficient antitumor effect in vivo study. This study provides a novel approach to cancer treatment by targeting redox imbalance.
Confined Synthesis of 2D Molybdenum Diphosphide Nanosheets via Gas‐Solid Transformation
Authors: Wang Wenbin , Wu Jingkun , Ma Chen , Qi Junlei , Bao Kai , Zhai Li , Repaka D. V. Maheswar , Han Xiao , Ma Cong , Wu Zongxiao , Wang Lingzhi , Gong Feng , Liu Yingxia , Chen Ye , He Qiyuan
Published: December 2024

Molybdenum diphosphide (MoP2), a topological semimetal, possesses distinctive properties and applications in catalysis, energy storage, and condensed matter physics. However, synthesizing high‐purity MoP2 is complex and often results in undesired stoichiometric by‐products. Additionally, the intrinsic orthorhombic crystal structure makes it difficult to synthesize MoP2 in a 2D morphology, which is desirable for device and energy applications. Here, the robust synthesis of MoP2 with a well‐defined 2D morphology is achieved using the confined gas‐solid phosphorization of a MoS2 precursor on substrates. The use of 2D precursors and the surface confinement provided by the substrate maintain the 2D morphology and result in a thickness‐dependent stoichiometry of the phosphorization products. The chemical composition and crystal structure of MoP2 nanosheets are comprehensively characterized. At room temperature, MoP2 nanosheets exhibit metallic transport with high conductivity over 5500 S cm−1. Furthermore, MoP2 nanosheets demonstrate excellent electrocatalytic activity and durability for hydrogen evolution in both neutral and acid mediums. Notably, MoP2 nanosheets possess better durability than amorphous Pt film and commercial Pt/C, positioning MoP2 as a promising catalyst for hydrogen evolution in neutral mediums. This work advances the synthetic chemistry of 2D MoP2 and provides 2D semimetals with a novel member for future explorations in diverse fields.
Transition Metal Complex‐Loaded Nanosystems: Advances in Stimuli‐Responsive Cancer Therapies
Authors: Das Bishnu
Published: December 2024

Transition metal complex‐loaded nanosystems (TMCNs) represent a cutting‐edge platform for stimuli (light, ultrasound)‐responsive cancer therapies. These nanosystems, incorporating metals such as manganese(II), zinc(II), ruthenium(II), rhenium(I), iridium(III), and platinum(IV), significantly enhance the efficacy of light‐activated therapies, including photodynamic therapy (PDT) and photothermal therapy (PTT), as well as ultrasound‐activated treatments like sonodynamic therapy (SDT). TMCNs based on ruthenium(II), rhenium(I), and iridium(III) improve PDT, while manganese(II) and iridium(III) demonstrate exceptional sonosensitizing properties. In PTT, ruthenium(II) and iridium(III)‐based TMCNs efficiently absorb light and generate heat. Emerging synergistic approaches that combine SDT, PTT, PDT, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy are demonstrated to be powerful strategies for precision cancer treatment. Zinc(II), ruthenium(II), iridium(III), and platinum(IV)‐based TMCNs play a critical role in optimizing these therapies, enhancing tumor targeting, and reducing side effects. Furthermore, TMCNs can amplify immunotherapy by inducing immunogenic cell death, thus strengthening the immune response. These advances address key challenges such as tumor hypoxia and therapeutic resistance, opening new possibilities for innovative photosensitizer‐based cancer treatments. This review highlights the latest progress in TMCNs design and applications, demonstrating their potential to revolutionize stimuli‐responsive cancer therapies.
Seasonal and daily use of canal culverts by mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates
Authors: Hamilton Kaela M. , Bommarito Thomas , Bateman Heather L. , Lewis Jesse S.
Published: December 2024

Landscape connectivity is critical to the long‐term conservation of wildlife populations. Although anthropogenic linear infrastructures (ALI), including roads and canals, provide important resources to humans, they can affect wildlife through habitat fragmentation and reduced movement through landscapes. To increase landscape connectivity, crossing structures, including underpasses, can facilitate wildlife movement across landscapes experiencing ALI. However, little is known about how a suite of small‐ to medium‐sized species use underpasses across seasonal and daily time periods, especially for some ALI such as major canals. We used specialized camera technology (i.e., the Hobbs Active Light Trigger [HALT] camera) to evaluate use of culvert underpass crossing structures (hereafter culverts) along the Central Arizona Project canal, Arizona, by a suite of mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates. Specifically, we evaluated (1) which wildlife species used culverts, (2) how the frequency of use varied across seasons (i.e., hot‐dry, hot‐wet, cool‐wet) and (3) daily activity patterns of wildlife using culverts. We detected 31 species of wildlife using culverts, which included small‐ to medium‐sized mammals (56.4% of crossings), reptiles (21.0% of crossings), amphibians (19.0% of crossings), and invertebrates (3.6% of crossings), including some species of conservation concern, such as the Sonoran Desert tortoise (Gopherus morafkai) and Gila monster (Heloderma suspectum). However, crossings by larger mammal species were less effectively detected with the HALT cameras. Reptile crossing frequency was similar between the 2 seasons that they were active during the hot‐dry (May–June) and hot‐wet (July–October) seasons and crossing frequency by some species of amphibians and invertebrates was higher in the hot‐wet season. Throughout the entire year, small mammals used culverts more frequently in hot seasons (i.e., hot‐wet and hot‐dry) compared to the cool‐wet (November‐March) season. In addition, daily activity patterns varied by species, where species crossed culverts during diurnal (e.g., desert spiny lizards, Sceloporus magister and coachwhip snakes, Masticophis flagellum), crepuscular (e.g., cottontail rabbits, Sylvilagus audubonii and western diamondback rattlesnakes, Crotalus atrox), and nocturnal (e.g., deer mouse species, heteromyid species, woodrat species, desert stink beetle species) time periods. Our information can be used to manage wildlife crossing areas and increase landscape connectivity in relation to ALI.
A log story short: running contributions to radiative Higgs decays in the SMEFT
Authors: Grojean Christophe , Guedes Guilherme , Nepveu Jasper Roosmale , Salla Gabriel M.
Published: December 2024

Abstract

We investigate the renormalization of the radiative decays of the Higgs to two gauge bosons in the Standard Model Effective Field Theory at mass dimension eight. Given that these are loop-level processes, their one-loop renormalization can be phenomenologically important when triggered by operators generated through the tree-level exchange of heavy particles (assuming a weakly coupled UV model). By computing the tree-level matching conditions of all relevant extensions of the Standard Model, we demonstrate that this effect is indeed present in the h → γZ decay at dimension eight, even though it is absent at dimension six. In contrast, the h → gg and h → γγ decays can only be renormalized by operators generated by one-loop processes. For UV models with heavy vectors, this conclusion hinges on the specific form of their interaction with massless gauge bosons which is required for perturbative unitarity. We study the quantitative impact of the possible logarithmic enhancement of h → γZ, and we propose an observable to boost the sensitivity to this effect. Given the expected increased precision of next-generation high-energy experiments, this dimension-eight contribution could be large enough to be probed and could therefore give valuable clues about new physics by revealing some of its structural features manifesting first at dimension eight.
Measurement of CKM element |Vcb| from W boson decays at the future Higgs factories
Authors: Liang Hao , Li LingFeng , Zhu Yongfeng , Shen Xiaoyan , Ruan Manqi
Published: December 2024

Abstract

This study investigates the precision measurement of the CKM matrix element |Vcb| through semileptonic WW events at future Higgs factories, i.e., FCC-ee, ILC, C3, and CEPC. We use full detector simulation to generate the WW → ℓνcb signal events and various backgrounds at $$ \sqrt{s} $$

s

= 240 GeV with unpolarized beams. The relative statistical uncertainties of |Vcb| are projected to be 0.91% for the muon channel and 1.2% for the electron channel, assuming a baseline integrated luminosity of 5 ab−1. The sensitivities at other Higgs factory scenarios are also projected. Possible contributors to systematic uncertainties are discussed, with the most prominent one being the systematics of flavor-tagging and mistagging rates. Combining with WW threshold runs, the relative systematic uncertainty can be further reduced.
Modular flavored dark matter
Authors: Baur Alexander , Chen Mu-Chun , Knapp-Pérez V. , Ramos-Sánchez Saúl
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Discrete flavor symmetries have been an appealing approach for explaining the observed flavor structure, which is not justified in the Standard Model (SM). Typically, these models require a so-called flavon field in order to give rise to the flavor structure upon the breaking of the flavor symmetry by the vacuum expectation value (VEV) of the flavon. Generally, in order to obtain the desired vacuum alignment, a flavon potential that includes additional so-called driving fields is required. On the other hand, allowing the flavor symmetry to be modular leads to a structure where the couplings are all holomorphic functions that depend only on a complex modulus, thus greatly reducing the number of parameters in the model. We show that these elements can be combined to simultaneously explain the flavor structure and dark matter (DM) relic abundance. We present a modular model with flavon vacuum alignment that allows for realistic flavor predictions while providing a successful fermionic DM candidate.
Reciprocal non-relativistic decoupling limits of String Theory and M-Theory
Authors: Lambert Neil , Smith Joseph
Published: December 2024

Abstract

It has recently been realised that there are supersymmetry-preserving non-relativistic decoupling limits associated with each half-BPS object in String Theory and M-Theory. We argue that, given a p-brane and a q-brane for which there is a quarter-BPS intersecting configuration, the p-brane decoupling limit of the q-brane’s worldvolume QFT is necessarily equal to the reciprocal q-brane decoupling limit of the p-brane’s worldvolume theory. This is explicitly shown for the cases of the D0-D4 and D1-D3 systems. As an application of this idea, we use the reciprocal pair of limits in the M2-M5 system to describe the dynamics of interacting self-dual strings in the six-dimensional $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= (2, 0) theory. We also discuss the limits of the dual gravitational theories and, using symmetries, argue that the duality is maintained by the limits.
Proving the absence of large one-loop corrections to the power spectrum of curvature perturbations in transient ultra-slow-roll inflation within the path-integral approach
Authors: Kawaguchi Ryodai , Tsujikawa Shinji , Yamada Yusuke
Published: December 2024

Abstract

We revisit one-loop corrections to the power spectrum of curvature perturbations ζ in an inflationary scenario containing a transient ultra-slow-roll (USR) period. In ref. [1], it was argued that one-loop corrections to the power spectrum of ζ can be larger than the tree-level one within the parameter region generating the seeds of primordial black holes during the USR epoch, which implies the breakdown of perturbation theory. We prove that this is not the case by using a master formula for one-loop corrections to the power spectrum obtained in ref. [2]. We derive the same formula within the path-integral formalism, which is simpler than the original derivation in [2]. To show the smallness of one-loop corrections, the consistency relations and the effective constancy of tree-level mode functions of ζ for super-Hubble modes play essential roles, with which the master formula gives a simple expression for one-loop corrections. For concreteness, we provide a reduced set of interactions including the leading-order one, while establishing the consistency relations in a self-consistent manner. We also show how the consistency relations of various operators hold explicitly, which plays a key role in proving the absence of large one-loop corrections.
On Disjoint Dynamical Properties and Lipschitz-Free Spaces
Authors: Cobollo Ch. , Peris A.
Published: December 2024

The notion of disjoint

$$\mathcal {A}$$

A

-transitivity for a Furstenberg family

$$\mathcal {A}$$

A

is introduced with the aim to generalize properties derived from disjoint hypercyclic operators. We begin a systematic study by showing some of the basic properties, including necessary conditions to inherit the property on the whole space from an invariant linearly dense set containing the origin. As a consequence, we continue the study of the link between non-linear and linear dynamics through Lipschitz-free spaces by presenting some necessary conditions to obtain disjoint

$$\mathcal {A}$$

A

-transitivity for families of Lipschitz-free operators on

$$\mathcal {F}(M)$$

F
(
M
)

expressed in terms of conditions in the underlying metric space M.
Autofreefem: automatic code generation with FreeFEM and LaTex output for shape and topology optimization of non-linear multi-physics problems
Authors: Allaire Grégoire , Gfrerer Michael H.
Published: December 2024

For an educational purpose, we develop the Python package AutoFreeFEM which generates all ingredients for shape optimization with non-linear multi-physics in FreeFEM and also outputs the expressions for use in LaTeX. As an input, the objective function and the weak form of the problem have to be specified only once. This ensures consistency between the simulation code and its documentation. In particular, AutoFreeFEM provides the linearization of the state equation, the adjoint problem, the shape derivative, as well as a basic implementation of the level-set based mesh evolution method for shape optimization. For the computation of shape derivatives, we utilize the mathematical Lagrangian approach for differentiating PDE-constrained shape functions. Differentiation is done symbolically using SymPy. In numerical experiments, we verify the accuracy of the computed derivatives. Finally, we showcase the capabilities of AutoFreeFEM by considering shape optimization of a non-linear diffusion problem, linear and non-linear elasticity problems, a thermo-elasticity problem, and a fluid–structure interaction problem.
New model to predict thermomagnetic properties of nanostructured magnetic compounds
Authors: Gokhfeld Denis , Koblischka Michael Rudolf , Koblischka-Veneva Anjela
Published: December 2024

The development of new materials showing the magneto-caloric effect (MCE) requires fast and reliable characterization methods. For this purpose, a phenomenological model developed by M. A. Hamad has proven to be a useful tool to predict the magnetocaloric properties (the isothermal magnetic entropy change,

$$\Delta S_\textrm{M}$$

Δ

S
M

, the magnetization-related change of the specific heat,

$$\Delta C_{P,H}$$

Δ

C

P
,
H

, and the relative cooling power, RCP) via calculation from magnetization measurements as a function of temperature, M(T). However, fitting the M(T) data is difficult for broad, smoothed-out transition curves which are often observed for material systems such as core-shell nanoparticles, nanowires, nanowire fabrics or nanoparticle hybrid materials. Thus, in this contribution we present a different approach enabling proper fitting of such magnetization data via the use of an asymmetric Boltzmann sigmoid function, which provides a clear physical background and enables to properly describe the broad and smoothed out transitions of nanomaterials. As examples for our procedure, we present fits to M(T) curves of polycrystalline, bulk

$$\hbox {La}_{0.67}\hbox {Ba}_{0.33}\hbox {MnO}_3$$

La

0.67

Ba

0.33

MnO
3

as well as

$$\hbox {La}_{1-x}\hbox {Sr}_{x}\hbox {MnO}_3$$

La

1
-
x

Sr
x

MnO
3

(

$$x=$$

x
=

0.2, 0.3, 0.4) and

$$\hbox {La}_{0.7}\hbox {Ca}_{0.3}\hbox {MnO}_3$$

La

0.7

Ca

0.3

MnO
3

nanostructured materials from various authors.