bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relationship between Glycosylated Haemoglobin Levels and Macular Thickness on Optical Coherence Tomography in Type 2 Diabetic Patients: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Malani Vrushabh Ghanshyam , Sangeetha T , Hanumanthappa BO , Athish KK , Mohamed Raheel
Published: November 2023

Introduction: Diabetic Macular Oedema (ME) is the main cause of poor visual acuity due to the breakdown of the inner and/or outer Blood Retinal Barrier (BRB). This can occur at any stage of Diabetic Retinopathy (DR) due to increased vascular permeability from retinal capillaries, as well as from microaneurysms and Intraretinal Microvascular Abnormalities (IRMAs). A high level of Glycosylated Haemoglobin (HbA1c) is a well known risk factor for diabetic ME. Aim: To evaluate the relationship between glycosylated Haemoglobin (Hb) and macular thickness on Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) in patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM). Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was in the Department of Ophthalmology at RL Jalappa Hospital, Kolar, Karnataka, India. The study duration was one year and eight months, conducted from January 2021 to September 2022. A total of 162 eyes of 81 patients with Diabetes Mellitus (DM) were included. Patients were assessed for age, gender, duration of diabetes, subfield macular thickness, total macular volume as measured by Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT), and HbA1c levels. Pearson’s correlation and paired t-test were used to identify the mean difference between paired data. A p-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Out of 81 patients, 52 (64.2%) were males and 29 (35.8%) were females, with a mean age of 59.36±8.98 years (range 40-81 years) and a duration of diabetes of 14.61±4.2 years. The mean HbA1c level was 8.18±1.47% (range 5.5-12.1). A significant positive correlation was observed between central subfield thickness and total macular volume with HbA1c among both eyes (p-value=0.001). This correlation was more prominent in patients with HbA1c values >8% compared to those with HbA1c values <8% (p-value=0.001). Additionally, a positive correlation was observed between duration of diabetes and right central macular thickness (p-value=0.046) and HbA1c levels (p-value=0.027). Age did not have a major influence on central subfield thickness and total macular volume, but it did show a positive Pearson’s correlation with HbA1c levels (p-value=0.008). Conclusion: A significant positive correlation was observed between central subfield thickness and total macular volume in both eyes with HbA1c levels. Patients with HbA1c levels >8% and a longer duration of diabetes exhibited increased macular thickness and total macular volume as measured by OCT, which was also observed in patients with severe non proliferative DR and proliferative DR.
High Intensity Therapeutic Laser Induced Changes in Cross-sectional Area of Hamstring Muscle: A Case Report
Authors: Srivastav Adarsh Kumar , Mittal Amit , Shaikh Faiz Zubair , Goyal Manu
Published: November 2023

Ultrasonography can provide a clear depiction of Muscle Thickness (MT) and Cross-sectional Area (CSA) while monitoring muscle contraction. Estimating muscle contraction through ultrasonography with physiotherapy interventions has shown to be a beneficial method for training tightened muscles. A 26-year-old male patient presented to physical therapy with a diagnosis of acute hamstring tightness in both lower extremities, based on clinical examination. Muscle tightness was confirmed through the CSA of the hamstring muscles using ultrasonography. A total of six sessions over two weeks, three times per week, including HighIntensity Laser Therapy (HILT) on each hamstring muscle using the contact method, were applied. Circumference and area of each hamstring muscle were measured through ultrasonography, along with flexibility using the sit-toe and touch test and the Active Knee Extension (AKE) test, both pre- and post-intervention. At the end of the sessions, the subject reported clinically meaningful improvement in outcome scores. This case illustrates the improvement in hamstring muscle flexibility as observed in radiological ultrasonography findings following HILT intervention in a subject with hamstring muscle tightness.
Regression Analysis of Extension Needs of Vegetable Growers in Amaravati Division of Maharashtra State, India
Authors: Sindhura Karukumalli , Tekale V. S. , Thakare Pranali N.
Published: November 2023

Indian sub-continent is blessed with different agro-climatic conditions, which favours the cultivation of vegetables throughout the year. Vegetable cultivation has always been a source of supplementary income besides providing gainful employment through intensive cultivation. The present study aims to analyze the regression analysis of extension needs of vegetable growers in Amaravati division of Maharashtra state. The study was carried out in 10 villages located in the Akola and Amravati districts of the Vidarbha region of Maharashtra state with a sample size of 120 respondents. An exploratory research design was used for conducting the study. The results of multiple regression analysis of various characteristics of the vegetable growers with their extension needs showed that selected variables are positively significant with extension needs and the selected independent variables collectively contributed only to the extent of 64.52 percent variation in the dependent variable. The findings of this study contributed for a better understanding of the extension needs of the vegetable growers and helps in developing targeted interventions and support services for their specific needs.
Growth and Yield of Grain Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata sub sp. cylindrica) in Response to Foliar Nutrition and Graded Levels of Phosphorus and Potassium
Authors: Sruthy H. , Pillai P. Shalini , Shimi G. J. , Bindhu J. S. , Sajeena A.
Published: November 2023

Aim: To assess the growth and yield of grain cowpea in response to varied doses of phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) supplemented with foliar application of nano diammonium phosphate (DAP) and potassium salt of active phosphorus (PSAP).

Study Design: The field experiment was a factorial experiment, laid out in randomised block design with two levels of P, three levels of K and two sources of foliar nutrition, compared against a control, with three replications.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted at the Integrated Farming System Research Station, Karamana, Nedumcaud, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India, during the period from December 2022 to February 2023.

Methods: The study utilized PGCP-6 cowpea variety and adopted fertilizer recommendations as per KAU POP (Package of Practices Recommendations of the Kerala Agricultural University). The entire dose of FYM, P and K and half dose of nitrogen (N) were applied as basal dose. The remaining half dose of N was applied at 15 days after sowing (DAS). Additionally, foliar application of nano DAP and PSAP (each @ 0.4 %) was done at 20 DAS and 40 DAS.

Results: The results of the study revealed that the treatment combination, p2k1f2 and p2k1f1 had comparable leaf area per plant and leaf area index (LAI) (at 60 DAS). The highest seed yield (1642 kg ha-1) was recorded with p2k1f2. Higher dose of P and K along with foliar application of nano DAP (0.4 % at 20 DAS and 40 DAS) had significant effect on the total DMP and haulm yield.

Conclusion: Combined application full dose of N, half dose of P, full dose of K and foliar application of PSAP (0.4 %) at 20 DAS and 40 DAS could be recommended as the best treatment combination for yield enhancement in grain cowpea.
Laser Direct Writing of Crystallized TiO2 by Photothermal Effect Induced by Gold Nanoparticles
Authors: Noel Laurent , Khitous Amine , Molinaro Céline , Zan Hsiao‐Wen , Berling Dominique , Grasset Fabien , Soppera Olivier
Published: November 2023

Near‐infrared (NIR) laser annealing is successfully used to crystallize TiO2 thin films from a sol–gel solution deposited on gold nanoparticle arrays (AuNPs). The AuNPs are used as nano‐heaters allowing a local temperature increase up to 500 °C in the film. The temperature reached under the laser is deduced from the presence of the anatase phase in the samples obtained by laser exposure, showing that crystallized TiO2 can be obtained by the photothermal effect. Different analytical techniques supported this study, such as grazing X‐ray diffraction (GIXRD), UV–vis, and Raman spectroscopy. The temperature increase is confirmed by a numerical model that emphasizes the role of NPs coupling in the photothermal effect. Direct laser patterning by NIR laser and in combination with Deep‐UV photolithography (DUV) are demonstrated. This fabrication method opens new perspectives in applications such as photonics, photocatalysis, or biosensing.
Illuminating Recent Progress in Nanotransfer Printing: Core Principles, Emerging Applications, and Future Perspectives
Authors: Ahn Junseong , Jang Hanhwi , Jeong Yongrok , Choi Seongsu , Ko Jiwoo , Hwang Soon Hyoung , Jeong Jun‐Ho , Jung Yeon Sik , Park Inkyu
Published: November 2023

As the demand for diverse nanostructures in physical/chemical devices continues to rise, the development of nanotransfer printing (nTP) technology is receiving significant attention due to its exceptional throughput and ease of use. Over the past decade, researchers have attempted to enhance the diversity of materials and substrates used in transfer processes as well as to improve the resolution, reliability, and scalability of nTP. Recent research on nTP has made continuous progress, particularly using the control of the interfacial adhesion force between the donor mold, target material, and receiver substrate, and numerous practical nTP methods with niche applications have been demonstrated. This review article offers a comprehensive analysis of the chronological advancements in nTP technology and categorizes recent strategies targeted for high‐yield and versatile printing based on controlling the relative adhesion force depending on interfacial layers. In detail, the advantages and challenges of various nTP approaches are discussed based on their working mechanisms, and several promising solutions to improve morphological/material diversity are presented. Furthermore, this review provides a summary of potential applications of nanostructured devices, along with perspectives on the outlook and remaining challenges, which are expected to facilitate the continued progress of nTP technology and to inspire future innovations.
Bacteria‐Based Living Probes: Preparation and the Applications in Bioimaging and Diagnosis
Authors: Jiang Hejin , Cao Zhenping , Liu Ying , Liu Rui , Zhou Yan , Liu Jinyao
Published: November 2023

Bacteria can colonize a variety of in vivo biointerfaces, particularly the skin, nasal, and oral mucosa, the gastrointestinal tract, and the reproductive tract, but also target specific lesion sites, such as tumor and wound. By virtue of their prominent characteristics in motility, editability, and targeting ability, bacteria carrying imageable agents are widely developed as living probes for bioimaging and diagnosis of different diseases. This review first introduces the strategies used for preparing bacteria‐based living probes, including biological engineering, chemical modification, intracellular loading, and optical manipulation. It then summarizes the recent progress of these living probes for fluorescence imaging, near‐infrared imaging, ultrasonic imaging, photoacoustic imaging, magnetic resonance imaging, and positron emission tomography imaging. The biomedical applications of bacteria‐based living probes are also reviewed particularly in the bioimaging and diagnosis of bacterial infections, cancers, and intestine‐associated diseases. In addition, the advantages and challenges of bacteria‐based living probes are discussed and future perspectives are also proposed. This review provides an updated overview of bacteria‐based living probes, highlighting their great potential as a unique yet versatile platform for developing next‐generation imageable agents for intelligent bioimaging, diagnosis, and even therapy.
Accelerated Redox Reactions Enable Stable Tin‐Lead Mixed Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: He Dongxu , Chen Peng , Hao Mengmeng , Lyu Miaoqiang , Wang Zhiliang , Ding Shanshan , Lin Tongen , Zhang Chengxi , Wu Xin , Moore Evan , Steele Julian A. , Namdas Ebinazar B. , Bai Yang , Wang Lianzhou
Published: November 2023

The facile oxidation of Sn2+ to Sn4+ poses an inherent challenge that limits the efficiency and stability of tin‐lead mixed (Sn−Pb) perovskite solar cells (PSCs) and all‐perovskite tandem devices. In this work, we discover the sustainable redox reactions enabling self‐healing Sn−Pb perovskites, where their intractable oxidation degradation can be recovered to their original state under light soaking. Quantitative and operando spectroscopies are used to investigate the redox chemistry, revealing that metallic Pb0 from the photolysis of perovskite reacts with Sn4+ to regenerate Pb2+ and Sn2+ spontaneously. Given the sluggish redox reaction kinetics, V3+/V2+ ionic pair is designed as an effective redox shuttle to accelerate the recovery of Sn−Pb perovskites from oxidation. The target Sn−Pb PSCs enabled by V3+/V2+ ionic pair deliver an improved power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 21.22 % and excellent device lifespan, retaining nearly 90 % of its initial PCE after maximum power point tracking under light for 1,000 hours.
Catheter‐associated bladder mucosal trauma during intermittent voiding: An experimental study in pigs
Authors: Stærk Kristian , Schrøder Brit , Jensen Louise Kruse , Petersen Troels , Andersen Thomas Emil , Nielsen Lene Feldskov
Published: November 2023

Objective

The objective of this study is to characterize bladder mucosal trauma associated with intermittent catheterization with conventional eyelet catheters (CECs) and to assess if a microhole zone catheter (MHZC) design concept reduces this adverse effect.

Materials and Methods

A porcine model was developed to reflect human catheterization and bladder drainage. Nine pigs were randomized for catheterization with CEC (n = 6) or MHZC (n = 3). The bladder was drained repeatedly 20 times through the catheter. Cystoscopy was performed before and after the procedure, and bladders were analysed by histopathology. Two additional pigs were used for cystoscopy visualization of suction events in vivo. Cystoscopy, gross pathology, histopathological score, leucocyte infiltration, and intracatheter pressure at flow stops during voiding were compared for each group.

Results

A significant higher pressure gradient was measured inside the CECs compared with MHZCs during flow stop. Consequently, CECs resulted in suction events inflicting bladder trauma characterized by loss of epithelium, oedema, haemorrhage, and neutrophil tissue infiltration. No significant trauma was identified when using MHZC.

Conclusions

Considerable mucosal bladder trauma is inflicted by CECs which may be an overlooked risk factor for urinary tract infection. Catheters can be designed to minimize mucosal suction and reduce associated trauma. This may be a solution to reduce infection frequency and increase user comfort. Furthermore, the study demonstrates the potential of pigs as an attractive animal model for investigating urinary catheter performances.
High‐intensity focused ultrasound ablation combined with systemic therapy for unresectable colorectal cancer liver metastasis: A propensity score‐matched analysis
Authors: Tang Fei , Zhong Qin , Ni Tingting , Xue Yingbo , Wu Jing , Deng Rong , Zhang Qi , Li Yan , He Xuanlu , Yang Zhenzhou , Zhang Yu
Published: November 2023

Objective

Unresectable colorectal cancer liver metastasis (CRLM) remains a challenging obstacle that often prevents curative treatment. In this study, we retrospectively analyzed the efficacy and safety of high‐intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) as a local adjuvant therapy for systemic chemotherapy for patients with unresectable CRLM. HIFU is a noninvasive method previously demonstrated as efficacious for various solid malignancies.

Methods

Propensity score matching was used for the combination therapy group (HIFU group, n = 59) and the observation group receiving systemic therapy only (No‐HIFU group, n = 59). In addition, the survival benefit, adverse effects, and factors affecting prognosis following HIFU were evaluated.

Results

The disease control rate was 77.9% and 62.7%, and the objective remission rate was 18.9% and 6.8% in the HIFU and non‐HIFU groups, respectively. The survival analysis showed that median progression‐free survival (mPFS) was 12.0 months and 11.0 months for the HIFU and non‐HIFU groups, respectively (p = 0.002). The univariate and multivariate analysis showed that pre‐treatment colorectal cancer liver metastasis lesion size was significantly associated with mPFS. In addition, patients that received a combination treatment for CRLM lesions <5.0 cm had a longer mPFS when compared to those receiving systemic therapy alone (13.0 months vs. 11.0 months, p = 0.001). In the HIFU group, patients with lesions <5.0 cm had a longer mPFS than patients with lesions ≥5.0 cm (13.0 months vs. 10.0 months, p = 0.04) (Figure 3B,C). Most treatment‐related adverse events observed in both groups were grade 1–2. Only four cases (6.8%) of grade 1–2 skin burns were observed in patients in the HIFU group; no other statistically significant adverse events were observed.

Conclusions

Our study showed that HIFU ablation targeting unresectable CRLM alongside systemic therapy safely and significantly improved local control rates and prolonged mPFS, especially for lesions smaller than 5.0 cm.
PdII Triazolylidene Complexes: Ancillary Ligand Dependent Catalytic Applications in Sonogashira Coupling and α‐Arylation Reactions under Copper‐Free Conditions
Authors: Nath Saha Tarak , Naskar Rajat , Adak Aparajita , Mondal Bhaskar , Maity Ramananda
Published: November 2023

Complexes ofN‐heterocyclic carbenes have become an irrefutable class of molecules for the researchers in the field of organocatalysis. They rank as one of the potent tools in organic chemistry, which have a wide range of uses in various commercially important processes. Palladium(II) mesoionic carbene (MIC) complexes embedded with PPh3 as an ancillary ligand appeared to be efficient catalysts for the aforementioned purpose. Two new triazolylidene‐based palladium(II) complexes bearing either Py or PPh3 as an ancillary ligand were synthesized, with chirality present at one of the nitrogen atoms of the triazolylidene moiety. The MIC unit in these complexes possesses a mesityl group at the C‐wingtip and 1‐(1‐naphthyl)ethyl substitution at the N‐wingtip. NMR spectroscopy and ESI mass spectrometry were utilized to analyze these complexes. For the determination of the structure of the palladium(II) complex possessing mixed MIC and PPh3 donor ligands, single crystal X‐ray diffraction was utilized. The new complexes were employed in α‐arylation reaction and Sonogashira coupling reactions under copper‐free conditions. While studying their catalytic activity, it was brought to the conclusion that the PdII MIC complex having PPh3 as an ancillary ligand surpassed the complex with Py as an ancillary ligand.The catalytic results of these complexes are also correlated with cyclic voltammetric (CV) data.
Latent classes of alcohol and cannabis use among adults with binge‐spectrum eating disorders: Associations with eating disorder symptom severity and personality features
Authors: Wilkinson M. L. , Karbassi N. , Juarascio A. S.
Published: November 2023

Objective

Alcohol and cannabis use are prevalent among individuals with binge‐spectrum eating disorders (B‐ED) and vary in terms of frequency and associated problems. The current study aimed to identify latent classes of alcohol and cannabis use patterns among B‐ED and examine associations between latent classes and demographic characteristics, eating disorder symptoms, and personality features.

Methods

Participants (N = 236) were treatment‐seeking adults with B‐ED who completed a clinical interview of eating pathology and self‐report measures of alcohol and cannabis use in the past 3 months, alcohol and cannabis‐related problems, and personality features (i.e., impulsivity, affect lability).

Results

Latent class analysis identified three heterogeneous classes, labelled as (a) Low Alcohol, (b) Moderate Drinking and Problems with Occasional Cannabis Use, and (c) No Alcohol and Cannabis Use. Latent classes significantly differed in terms of substance use engagement and problems, demographic characteristics, dietary restraint, impulsive personality features, and affect lability.

Conclusions

Study findings support heterogeneity in alcohol and cannabis use among B‐ED and suggest patient characteristics and clinical severity associated with specific substance use presentations. Future research should replicate results using larger, diverse samples engaging in a broader range of alcohol and cannabis use symptoms.
Global status, recent trends, and knowledge mapping of olive oil research and cardiovascular disease: 50 years of investigations through bibliometric analysis
Authors: Gargi Baby , Painuli Sakshi , Semwal Prabhakar , Singh Deependra Pratap , Sharma Rohit , Rauf Abdur , Khalil Anees Ahmed , Khalid Ahood , Hemeg Hassan A. , Wilairatana Polrat
Published: November 2023

In the Mediterranean diet, olive oil serves as the predominant fat source and has been linked to a decreased risk of mortality related to cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Still, there is no conclusive evidence correlating olive oil consumption to CVD. The aim of this study is to assess the global research, current research trends, and knowledge mapping related to the correlation between the consumption of olive oil and CVD using bibliometric analysis. On August 19, 2023, a title‐specific literature search was conducted on the Scopus database using the search terms “olive oil” and “cardiovascular disease” with a date range of the past 50 years. Subsequently, bibliometric tools such as VOSviewer and Bibliometrix were employed to analyze and evaluate the obtained documents. The search yielded (n = 429) publications and showed an upward trend in the annual publication count over the last five decades. The publication number exhibited a gradual increase with a rate of 5.55%. The results also indicated that 2530 authors, 759 institutions, 47 countries, and 223 journals have publications in this research domain. The present bibliometric study will be a valuable research reference for describing the worldwide research patterns concerning the relationship between olive oil and CVD during the past 50 years. In the future, the application of olive oil for the treatment of CVDs may be an emerging research trend. Apart from this, collaborations among authors, countries, and organizations are expected.
Potential injectable hydrogels as biomaterials for central nervous system injury: A narrative review
Authors: Sarma Santa , Deka Dhruva J. , Rajak Prakash , Laloo Damiki , Das Trishna , Chetia Purbajit , Saha Dipankar , Bharali Alakesh , Deka Bhargab
Published: November 2023

Numerous modalities exist through which the central nervous system (CNS) may sustain injury or impairment, encompassing traumatic incidents, stroke occurrences, and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease. Presently available pharmacological and therapeutic interventions are incapable of restoring or regenerating damaged CNS tissue, leading to substantial unmet clinical needs among patients with CNS ailments or injuries. To address and facilitate the recovery of the impaired CNS, cell‐based repair strategies encompass multiple mechanisms, such as neuronal replacement, therapeutic factor secretion, and the promotion of host brain plasticity. Despite the progression of cell‐based CNS reparation as a therapeutic strategy throughout the years, substantial barriers have impeded its widespread implementation in clinical settings. The integration of cell technologies with advancements in regenerative medicine utilizing biomaterials and tissue engineering has recently facilitated the surmounting of several of these impediments. This comprehensive review presents an overview of distinct CNS conditions necessitating cell reparation, in addition to exploring potential biomaterial methodologies that enhance the efficacy of treating brain injuries.
An empirical snapshot of English corporate insolvencies
Authors: Khan Asad
Published: November 2023

The article presents an empirical study of English corporate insolvencies initiated between December 2016 and December 2018. The research focuses on creditors' voluntary liquidations (‘CVLs’), the most frequently occurring insolvency procedure. It also looks at a few administrations and compares findings with CVLs to analyse which procedure may lead to better returns to creditors. The article highlights key statistics such as the average costs of procedures and the impact of the prescribed part fund on distribution. Further, the study assesses HMRC's potential debt recovery following its return as a preferential creditor and discusses whether Crown preference is justified. Given that data analysis on the practicalities of distribution during insolvency is lacking, the empirical study arguably helps fill a gap in the literature. Essentially, the article provides quantitative data on the practicalities of distribution and assesses the impact of the order of priority on repayment to creditors.
Use of photobiomodulation (880 nm) for anesthesia puncture pain reduction: A split‐mouth case report
Authors: Ferreira Giovanna Fontgalland , Machado Glaucia Gonçales Abud , Roncolato Vinicius Leão , Bussadori Sandra Kalil , Motta Lara Jansiski , Duran Cinthya Cosme Gutierrez , Fernandes Kristianne Porta Santos , Mesquita‐Ferrari Raquel Agnelli , Horliana Anna Carolina Ratto Tempestini
Published: November 2023

The objective of this split‐mouth case report is to evaluate the effect of photobiomodulation (PBM, 880 nm) on pain control during pterygomandibular puncture. A patient received anesthesia on both sides of the mouth in a randomized manner. On the right side, an 880‐nm infrared laser was applied immediately before local anesthesia. On the left side, a sham laser was applied using the same technique. There was a 50% reduction in pain levels on the PBM‐treated side compared to the PBM‐sham side, as measured by the visual analog scale. Sensitivity tests revealed that anesthesia was more effective on the PBM side. There was no difference in blood pressure. This case report suggests that PBM (880 nm) before anesthesia may alleviate puncture pain associated with pterygomandibular anesthesia. Although these findings are based on a single case report, they can serve as the initial stepping stone for further randomized clinical trials.
Hip joint contact forces are lower in people with femoroacetabular impingement syndrome during squat tasks
Authors: Perrone Mattia , Guidetti Martina , Galli Manuela , Nho Shane J. , Wimmer Markus A. , Malloy Philip
Published: November 2023

It remains unknown if hip joint forces during squat tasks are altered in people with femoroacetabular impingement syndrome (FAIS). The aim of this study is to compare hip joint forces between people with FAIS and healthy controls during double leg squat and single leg squat tasks and within limbs during a single leg squat task in people with FAIS. Kinematic and kinetic data were collected in eight people with FAIS and eight healthy matched controls using 3D motion capture and force plates. AnyBody Modeling System was used to perform musculoskeletal simulations to estimate hip joint angles, forces, and moments for all participants. Estimates were postprocessed with AnyPyTools and converted into normalized time series to be compared using a 1D statistical nonparametric mapping (SnPM) approach. SnPM with an independent samples t‐test model was used to compare people with FAIS to controls, while a paired samples model was used to compare involved to uninvolved limb in people with FAIS. Patients demonstrated lower proximodistal force compared to controls (p < 0.01) and compared to the uninvolved side (p = 0.01) for single leg squat. The smaller joint contact forces in people with FAIS compared to controls could represent a strategy of reduced muscle forces to avoid pain and symptoms during this high demand task. These findings when combined with imaging data could help assess the severity of FAIS on hip related function during higher demand tasks.
Tumor‐infiltrating lymphocytes in patients undergoing esophagectomy following neoadjuvant DCF therapy
Authors: Takahashi Keita , Sakashita Yuki , Murahashi Mutsunori , Kubota Hoshiho , Shimoda Masayuki , Ishikawa Yoshitaka , Tanishima Yuichiro , Kurogochi Takanori , Yano Fumiaki , Eto Ken
Published: November 2023

Background

Accumulating evidence suggests that expression levels of tumor‐infiltrating (TI) cells may play a prognostic role in patients with esophageal cancer who have undergone esophagectomy. However, its effect on patients undergoing neoadjuvant docetaxel, cisplatin, and 5‐fluorouracil (DCF) therapy followed by esophagectomy for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) remains unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to elucidate the prognostic impact of TI cells in patients who underwent esophagectomy following neoadjuvant DCF therapy.

Methods

Overall, 81 patients with ESCC who underwent curative esophagectomy following neoadjuvant DCF therapy were included. The number of TI CD8+ cells was determined using light microscopy at ×400 in tumor invasive margins. Receiver operative characteristic curve was used to determine the cutoff values for mortality for continuous variables; the patients were separated into high and low TI CD8+ cell groups and their backgrounds and clinical outcomes were compared.

Results

Overall and relapse‐free survival were significantly worse in the TI CD8+‐low group than that in the TI CD8+‐high group (p < 0.01). Multivariate analysis revealed that positive ypN (hazard ratio [HR], 3.12; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.08–9.02) and low TI CD8+ cell levels (HR, 2.77; 95% CI, 1.31–5.85) were independent prognostic factors for overall survival. Furthermore, positive venous invasion (HR, 2.63; 95% CI, 1.29–5.35) and low TI CD8+ cell levels (HR, 2.77; 95% CI, 1.70–5.46) were significant prognostic factors for relapse‐free survival.

Conclusions

Low TI CD8+ cell level was a prominent prognostic factor for patients with ESCC undergoing neoadjuvant DCF therapy followed by esophagectomy.
Dimethylmercury in natural waters—analytical and experimental considerations
Authors: West Johannes , Babi Diana , Azaroff Alyssa , Jonsson Sofi
Published: November 2023

Mono‐ and dimethylmercury (MMHg and DMHg, respectively) are the two primary organic forms of mercury (Hg) found in natural waters. While experimental approaches to characterize the environmental behavior of MMHg and inorganic forms of Hg are widely used today, few laboratories conduct experimental studies entailing the use of DMHg. In this paper, we have evaluated and developed different analytical and experimental approaches to quantify and use DMHg in laboratory studies. We demonstrate that DMHg can be analyzed from samples where MMHg is derivatized using sodium tetraethyl borate and where the matrix effects of dissolved sulfide are masked using copper sulfate. Tests, where the calibration curves of MMHg and DMHg were used, showed that MMHg may be used to calibrate for DMHg. For the pre‐concentration of DMHg, both traps filled with Tenax® TA and Bond Elut ENV were found suitable. We observed good recoveries of DMHg added to different types of natural waters or purified water containing aquarium salt, sodium chloride and dissolved sulfide, iron sulfide, and cadmium sulfide at DMHg : sulfide molar ratios > 10−6. In addition to evaluating these analytical aspects, we present suitable subsampling techniques for DMHg‐containing solutions, the recovery of DMHg when filtering DMHg through different types of filters, and experimental data on the long‐term stability of DMHg added to different types of waters and stored at different temperatures. Finally, we present and discuss a new synthetization protocol for preparing aqueous solutions containing DMHg free of organic solvents and where handling DMHg in a pure form is prevented.
Optimization of process parameters effects on mechanical properties of selective laser melted iron samples
Authors: Hemmati M. , Modabberifar M. , Taheri M. , Sajjadi M. A.
Published: November 2023

Selective laser melting is an additive manufacturing technology whereby parts are built through selective melt of a powder bed by a laser beam. This technology is used to produce net shape parts in 3D printers. In this study, the effect of selective laser melting parameters on the mechanical properties (ultimate tensile strength and hardness) of iron has been experimentally extracted, and the optimum levels of the parameters have been determined for optimum mechanical properties using signal‐to‐noise analysis. The selected parameters include the laser power, the laser scanning speed, and the laser hatch distance, and the design of experiments was done by the Taguchi method. The main effects of factors and interactions were considered in this paper. The results show that the optimum parameter levels for the ultimate tensile strength include the laser power of 200 W, the laser scanning speed of 600 mm/s, and the hatch distance of 70 μm. The optimal parameters for hardness are similar to the maximum tensile strength, except that the optimum hatch distance is 60 μm.
Peer effect, bank concentration, and crises: Evidence from the United States
Authors: Zeng Jhih‐Hong , Lin Sin‐Jin
Published: November 2023

This research analyzes the impact of banks' peer effect in lending on the bank concentration‐crisis nexus for the period 2015–2021 in the United States. The analysis finds that a high level of bank concentration increases a crisis via the channel of banks' peer effect in lending, to which the imitative behavior of big banks is deemed to be the cause of deteriorating the damage of bank concentration on the stability of the banking sector. The results propose policy implications and what banks should do when treating financial market sustainability as their duty on the environmental, social, and governance (ESG) issues.
Very long‐term follow‐up of Indiana Pouches proves durability
Authors: Polm Pepijn D. , Wyndaele Michel I. A. , de Kort Laetitia M. O.
Published: November 2023

Introduction

An Indiana Pouch (IP) is a heterotopic, continent, urinary diversion from an ileocolonic segment. Numerous studies have investigated its long‐term outcomes, albeit none extending beyond a 5‐year follow‐up period. IPs can be used as urinary diversion for benign indications and as such are constructed in typically young patients. As a consequence of their extended lifespan, there is a need for very long‐term (>5 years) IP outcome data and comprehensive complication analysis.

Materials and Methods

In this retrospective cohort study, the data of all patients attending our academic functional urology tertiary referral center for surveillance between 2015 and 2022 after an earlier IP procedure without uro‐oncological indication were analyzed. The primary objective was to identify the prevalence of complications associated with IP, including stomal stenosis, ureter‐pouch stenosis, pouch calculi, stomal leakage, pouch perforation, and parastomal herniation, and to determine the time span between creation of the IP and occurrence of complications.

Results

A cohort of 33 patients (23 female) was analyzed. Median age at IP creation was 38 (range 5–62) years. Median follow‐up was 258 (range 24–452) months. During follow‐up, 22 (67%) patients underwent at least one surgical revision. In total, 45 revision procedures were performed. The estimated mean revision‐free survival was 198 (95%‐CI 144–242) months.

Conclusion

Two‐thirds of our IP patients required surgical revision during very long‐term follow‐up. However, the mean revision‐free survival was 198 months. This establishes the IP as a durable and resilient option for urinary diversion, yet underlines the need for lifelong follow‐up as some of these complications and indication were subclinical. These results contribute significantly to patient counseling when discussing different options for urinary diversion, especially at a younger age.
Water Futures in Australia: Materialities, Temporalities, Imaginaries
Authors: Babidge Sally , Eickelkamp Ute , Connor Linda
Published: November 2023

This special issue is part of a shift in social science and humanities thinking and in public awareness towards planetary water concerns. As societal and scholarly attention to the wet element – and its political import and its cultural constitution – is growing, we ask, how can we rethink our relationships with water in Australia now and into the future? The collection of papers in this issue shows that water responds to human practices which in turn are grounded in cultural imaginaries. Water is thus real in diverse ways, and makes possible diverse material, political and cultural relationships. Taking our lead from the ideas that contributors have developed from this and other questions posed for the issue, our introductory discussion considers three themes that are key to the understanding of water futures in Australia: materialities, temporalities and imaginaries.
Land market misallocation, regional integration, and economic growth: Evidence from the Yangtze River Delta Region, China
Authors: Zhong Xiaoping , Zhou Shaojie , Yu Xiaohua
Published: November 2023

Intensive land use and land marketization is an important engine for promoting regional integration, especially on the background of China's fragmented land market. It might be difficult to establish an integrated national land market in the short run. As a compromise, the establishment of regional land markets consisting of a few neighboring provinces could be an option. Particularly, the Yangtze River Delta Region (YRDR), could be an ideal place for such a policy trial. This study uses the data of Shanghai, Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Anhui in YRDR from 1999 to 2017 to quantitatively calibrate possible economic benefits when the land misallocation is corrected with an integrated land market. We find that, if an integrated construction land market was established in YRDR, and Anhui could transfer some of its construction land quota to Shanghai, the transaction between Anhui and Shanghai in 2017 could bring an improved income of 289.8 billion yuan in YRDR, ceteris paribus, about 1.73% of the regional gross domestic product. The integration of regional land markets has brought about significant efficiency improvements. This study provides insights into sustainable economic growth in future China and the regional development strategy of other developing countries.
Probing conformational properties of conjugated polymers in dilute solutions under variable solvent quality via coarse‐grained modeling
Authors: Li Zhaofan , Wang Yang , Ma Guorong , Liao Yangchao , Gu Xiaodan , Xia Wenjie
Published: November 2023

Conjugated polymers (CPs), characterized by rigid conjugation backbones and flexible peripheral side chains, hold significant promise in various organic optoelectronic applications. In this study, we employ coarse‐grained molecular dynamics (CG‐MD) simulations to investigate the intricate interplay of solvent quality, temperature, and chain architecture (e.g., side‐chain length and molecular mass) on the conformational behaviors of CPs in dilute solutions. Our research uncovers distinctive conformational behaviors under varying solvent conditions, highlighting the versatile nature of polymer chains, which can adopt extended configurations in good solvents and transition to aggregated states in poor solvents. Additionally, the mass scaling exponent , a robust structural descriptor, consistently described CPs behavior across diverse architectures and solvent conditions. Furthermore, our study shows that a CP with longer side‐chain exhibits improved solubility, which is further confirmed by experimental observations. Moreover, our analysis of the shape descriptor provided valuable insights into the symmetry and dimensionality of CPs under varying solvent conditions. These findings offer a comprehensive understanding of conformational behaviors of CPs in dilute solution, which are helpful in guiding the conformational design of polymer for specific applications.
An unusual cause of progressive dyspnoea, pulmonary nodules and pleural effusions
Authors: Venkatesan Sudharsan , Ramnani Bharti , Klebe Sonja , Mo Lin
Published: November 2023

Eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA) is part of the ANCA‐associated vasculitides, although ANCA‐negative presentations are not infrequent. Asthma, allergic rhinitis and peripheral eosinophilia are classic associations although pleural effusions are an uncommon manifestation of EGPA. We describe a 35‐year old Caucasian adult with asthma who presented with progressive dyspnoea, cough, peripheral eosinophilia and imaging that showed pulmonary nodules with pleural effusions. Biopsy with histopathological review confirmed the diagnosis of EGPA with steroid therapy resulting in significant resolution of symptoms and imaging findings.
Active set prediction for nonlinear model predictive control on a shrinking horizon based on the principle of optimality
Authors: Dyrska Raphael , Mönnigmann Martin
Published: November 2023

We provide insights into the structure of the set of active constraints arising for optimal solutions to nonlinear model predictive control problems along a shrinking horizon. The principle of optimality combined with a particular order of the constraints allows the prediction of the future active sets without solving the corresponding optimization problem. By describing the development of optimal active sets along a shrinking horizon, we state an important relationship for transferring ideas such as dynamic programming approaches from the linear to the nonlinear case. We further use the information about active and inactive constraints to rearrange and remove constraints of the original nonlinear program as described in previous work and thus simplify the problem. Numerical experiments show for the problem class treated here that the inherent robustness coming with the regional characteristic of the active sets with respect to the state space makes this approach useful also if uncertainties are present.
A Versatile Shaping Method of Very‐High Loading Porous Solids Paper Adsorbent Composites
Authors: Tignol Pierre , Pimenta Vanessa , Dupont Anne‐Laurence , Carvalho Silvia , Mohtar Abeer Al , Inês Severino Maria , Nouar Farid , Pinto Moisés L. , Serre Christian , Lavédrine Bertrand
Published: November 2023

Owing to their high porosity and tunability, porous solids such as metal–organic frameworks (MOFs), zeolites, or activated carbons (ACs) are of great interest in the fields of air purification, gas separation, and catalysis, among others. Nonetheless, these materials are usually synthetized as powders and need to be shaped in a more practical way that does not modify their intrinsic property (i.e., porosity). Elaborating porous, freestanding and flexible sheets is a relevant shaping strategy. However, when high loadings (>70 wt.%) are achieved the mechanical properties are challenged. A new straightforward and green method involving the combination softwood bleached kraft pulp fibers (S) and nano‐fibrillated cellulose (NFC) is reported, where S provides flexibility while NFC acts as a micro‐structuring and mechanical reinforcement agent to form high loadings porous solids paper sheets (>70 wt.%). The composite has unobstructed porosity and good mechanical strength. The sheets prepared with various fillers (MOFs, ACs, and zeolites) can be rolled, handled, and adapted to different uses, such as air purification. As an example of potential application, a MOF paper composite has been considered for the capture of polar volatile organic compounds exhibiting better performance than beads and granules.
Proof of Necessary Work: Succinct State Verification with Fairness Guarantees
Authors: Kattis Assimakis , Bonneau Joseph
Published: November 2023

Blockchain-based payment systems utilize an append-only log of transactions whose correctness can be verified by any observer. Classically, verification costs grow linearly in either the number of transactions or blocks in the blockchain (often both). Incrementally Verifiable Computation (IVC) can be used to enable constant-time verification, but generating the necessary proofs is expensive. We introduce the notion of Proof of Necessary Work (PoNW), in which proof generation is an integral part of the proof-of-work used in Nakamoto consensus, producing proofs using energy that would otherwise be wasted. We implement and benchmark a prototype of our system, enabling stateless clients to verify the entire blockchain history in about 40 milliseconds.
SymTFTs and duality defects from 6d SCFTs on 4-manifolds
Authors: Chen Jin , Cui Wei , Haghighat Babak , Wang Yi-Nan
Published: November 2023

Abstract

In this work we study particular TQFTs in three dimensions, known as Symmetry Topological Field Theories (or SymTFTs), to identify line defects of two-dimensional CFTs arising from the compactification of 6d (2, 0) SCFTs on 4-manifolds M4. The mapping class group of M4 and the automorphism group of the SymTFT switch between different absolute 2d theories or global variants. Using the combined symmetries, we realize the topological defects in these global variants. Our main example is ℙ1 × ℙ1. For N M5-branes the corresponding 2d theory inherits ℤN 0-form symmetries from the SymTFT. We reproduce the orbifold groupoid for theories with ℤN 0-form symmetries and realize the duality defects at fixed points of the coupling constant under elements of the mapping class group. We also study other Hirzebruch surfaces, del Pezzo surfaces, as well as the connected sum of ℙ1 × ℙ1. We find a rich network of global variants connected via automorphisms and realize more interesting topological defects. Finally, we derive the SymTFT on more general 4-manifolds and provide two examples.
Effect of moisture on the edgewise flexural properties of acetylated and unmodified birch plywood: a comparison of strength, stiffness and brittleness properties
Authors: Wang Yue , Wang Tianxiang , Crocetti Roberto , Wålinder Magnus
Published: November 2023

Birch plywood has superior mechanical properties compared with that made from most softwoods. However, durability-related issues still limit the application of birch plywood in outdoor structures. A means to enhance its durability is to acetylate birch veneers before processing them into plywood. An earlier study showed that such acetylated birch plywood has equivalent mechanical properties to unmodified ones. However, there is a need to better understand the moisture effect on the mechanical properties of unmodified and acetylated birch plywood for a better design of structural birch plywood elements. Moreover, due to the pronounced in-plane anisotropy of plywood, extra concern should be given to the weakest load angle due to the weakest chain theory. In this study, acetylated and unmodified birch plywood specimens were conditioned in climate chambers under three different environments with a temperature of 20 °C and increasing relative humidity (RH) from 35 to 65% to 95%. Thereafter, their in-plane edgewise flexural properties with load-to-face grain angles of 0, 45, and 90 degrees were tested. The influence of both RH and measured moisture contents on bending strength and stiffness are then presented. Prediction formulas of mechanical properties with moisture contents are derived by performing linear regressions among test results. Variations of brittleness factors and brittleness indexes under various RH conditions and load-face grain angles were also studied.