bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bruceantinol targeting STAT3 exerts promising antitumor effects in in vitro and in vivo osteosarcoma models
Authors: Miao Jinglei , Chen Shijie , Cao Hongqing , Ding Zhiyu , Li Yuezhan , Wang Weiguo , Nundlall Keshav , Deng Youwen , Li Jinsong
Published: March 2024

Bruceantinol (BOL) is a quassinoid compound found in the fruits of Brucea javanica. Previous research has highlighted the manifold physiological and pharmacological activities of BOL. Notably, BOL has demonstrated antitumor cytotoxic and antibacterial effects, lending support to its potential as a promising therapeutic agent for various diseases. Despite being recognized as a potent antitumor inhibitor in multiple cancer types, its efficacy against osteosarcoma (OS) has not been elucidated. In this work, we investigated the antitumor properties of BOL against OS. Our findings showed that BOL significantly decreased the proliferation and migration of OS cells, induced apoptosis, and caused cell death without affecting the cell cycle. We further confirmed that BOL potently suppressed tumor growth in vivo. Mechanismly, we discovered that BOL directly bound to STAT3, and prevent the activation of STAT3 signaling at low nanomolar concentrations. Overall, our study demonstrated that BOL potently inhibited the growth and metastasis of OS, and efficiently suppressed STAT3 signaling pathway. These results suggest that BOL could be a promising therapeutic candidate for OS.
Strategic analysis of green technology unilateral licensing under carbon cap‐and‐trade policy
Authors: Lin Gui‐Hua , Liu Yang‐Ping , Zhang Qi
Published: March 2024

We investigate green technology unilateral licensing strategies between two competing manufacturers under carbon cap‐and‐trade policy. We construct Nash game models and compare the optimal strategies in the unilateral licensing situation with the no‐licensing situation. Comprehensive numerical experiments are taken to investigate the influence of some key parameters on optimal decisions. Our findings show that the green technology unilateral licensing strategy may benefit consumers; when green technology improvement is high, manufacturers tend to take the unilateral licensing strategy to obtain more profits; when initial unit carbon emission difference is moderate or large, the optimal strategy is that the manufacturer with lower level of green technology acts as the licensor; green technology unilateral licensing strategy may not necessarily reduce all manufacturers' total carbon emissions; only when green technology improvement is high, the unilateral licensing strategy is beneficial to environmental protection.
Financial asset allocations, economic policy uncertainty, and enterprise digital transformation
Authors: Shao Xuefeng , Wang Longqi , Li Xinda
Published: March 2024

In this paper, the impact of financial asset allocations on digital transformation is empirically explored by selecting a sample of 1,263 Chinese A‐share manufacturing enterprises. In addition, the maturity difference, moderating effect, and heterogeneity of financial assets are analyzed. The results show an “inverted U‐shaped” correlation between financial asset allocations and the digital transformation of enterprises. The short‐term financial assets provide a “reservoir” for the application of digital technology, while the long‐term financial assets cause a crowding‐out effect. Moreover, economic policy uncertainty exerts a moderating effect and enhances the positive impact of financial asset allocations on digital transformation.
The effect of control beliefs on the relationship between daily stressors and subjective age in younger adults
Authors: Lee Sofia E. , Neupert Shevaun D.
Published: March 2024

Experiencing stress can be associated with feeling and looking older. The goal of this study was to examine daily fluctuations in control beliefs as a potential moderator of the relationship between daily stressors and two indicators of subjective aging in younger adults. Data were collected from 107 younger adults between the ages of 18 and 36 (M = 19.96) who completed an online questionnaire via Qualtrics daily for 9 consecutive days. On Day 1, participants reported demographic information and on Days 2–9, participants reported their daily subjective ages (how old they felt and how old they looked), daily stressors, and perceptions of daily control beliefs. Results from multilevel models revealed that increases in daily stressors were associated with increases in both felt and look age. Although there was no main effect of control beliefs, control beliefs did function as a moderator of the relationship between daily stressors and felt age as well as between daily stressors and look age. Specifically, the aging effect of daily stressors was not significant on days with increases in control beliefs. These results suggest that young adults feel and look older on days when they experience higher levels of stressors and that increases in perceptions of control help to mitigate this effect.
Modeling blood alcohol concentration using fractional differential equations based on the ψ‐Caputo derivative
Authors: Wanassi Om Kalthoum , Torres Delfim F. M.
Published: March 2024

We propose a novel dynamical model for blood alcohol concentration that incorporates
‐Caputo fractional derivatives. Using the generalized Laplace transform technique, we successfully derive an analytic solution for both the alcohol concentration in the stomach and the alcohol concentration in the blood of an individual. These analytical formulas provide us a straightforward numerical scheme, which demonstrates the efficacy of the
‐Caputo derivative operator in achieving a better fit to real experimental data on blood alcohol levels available in the literature. In comparison with existing classical and fractional models found in the literature, our model outperforms them significantly. Indeed, by employing a simple yet nonstandard kernel function
, we are able to reduce the error by more than half, resulting in an impressive gain improvement of 59%.
Periodicity, stability, and synchronization of solutions of hybrid coupled dynamic equations with multiple delays
Authors: Agrawal Divya , Dhama Soniya , Kostić Marko , Abbas Syed
Published: March 2024

This paper explores general coupled dynamic equations on time scales with multiple delays and investigates the existence of periodic solutions using the coincidence degree theory approach. The model studied includes the mathematical models of Nicholson, Mackey–Glass, and Lasota–Wazewska as special cases. Furthermore, we demonstrate that the solutions are not only asymptotically stable but also exponentially synchronized. The presented results significantly extend and complement existing findings in the field. The paper concludes with illustrative examples that highlight the practical implications of our analytical discoveries.
L‐Citrulline Ameliorates Iron Metabolism and Mitochondrial Quality Control via Activating AMPK Pathway in Intestine and Improves Microbiota in Mice with Iron Overload
Authors: Zhao Dai , Gao Yuan , Chen Yiqin , Zhang Yingsi , Deng Yian , Niu Sai , Dai Hanchuan
Published: March 2024

Scope

Oxidative stress caused by iron overload tends to result in intestinal mucosal barrier dysfunction and intestinal microbiota imbalance. As a neutral and nonprotein amino acid, L‐Citrulline (L‐cit) has been implicated in antioxidant and mitochondrial amelioration properties. This study investigates whether L‐cit can alleviate iron overload‐induced intestinal injury and explores the underlying mechanisms.

Methods and results

C57BL/6J mice are intraperitoneally injected with iron dextran, then gavaged with different dose of L‐cit for 2 weeks. L‐cit treatment significantly alleviates intestine pathological injury, oxidative stress, ATP level, and mitochondrial respiratory chain complex activities, accompanied by ameliorating mitochondrial quality control. L‐cit‐mediated protection is associated with the upregulation of Glutathione Peroxidase 4 (GPX4) expression, inhibition Nuclear Receptor Coactivator 4 (NCOA4)‐mediated ferritinophagy and ferroptosis, and improvement of gut microbiota. To investigate the underlying molecular mechanisms, Intestinal Porcine Epithelial Cell line‐J2 (IPEC‐J2) cells are treated with L‐cit or AMP‐activated Protein Kinase (AMPK) inhibitor. AMPK signaling has been activated by L‐cit. Notably, Compound C abolishes L‐cit's protection on intestinal barrier, mitochondrial function, and antioxidative capacity in IPEC‐J2 cells.

Conclusion

L‐cit may restrain ferritinophagy and ferroptosis to regulate iron metabolism, and induce AMPK pathway activation, which contributes to exert antioxidation, ameliorate iron metabolism and mitochondrial quality control, and improve intestinal microbiota. L‐cit is a promising therapeutic strategy for iron overload‐induced intestinal injury.
Real‐time demonstration of photonics‐based THz wireless fronthaul integrated with fiber‐optic mobile fronthaul
Authors: Moon Sang‐Rok , Kim Sooyeon , Kim Eon‐Sang , Sung Minkyu , Cho Seung‐Hyun
Published: March 2024

A photonics‐based terahertz (THz) wireless fronthaul is proposed, and its feasibility is investigated by real‐time demonstration. The proposed wireless fronthaul can be simply integrated into existing fiber‐optic fronthaul, to serve as a complementary or emergency network. An optical signal can be converted into a THz wireless signal by photonics‐based THz‐signal generation technology, utilizing a unitraveling carrier photo‐diode. Following wireless transmission, the THz wireless signal is reconverted to an optical signal by using a Schottky‐barrier diode and an optical transmitter. To investigate the feasibility of our proposed concept, real‐time transmission over a 100 m‐equivalent configuration is demonstrated with 24.33 Gb/s common public radio interface option 10 signals, at a carrier frequency of 275 GHz. The latency added by the proposed wireless fronthaul was measured to be few 100 ns, which is negligibly lower than the wireless transmission latency required by 6G key performance indicator.
A low‐cost and multifunctional long‐life anthropomorphic head phantom for microwave brain imaging systems
Authors: Salimitorkamani Mahdi , Mehranpour Mehdi , Cansiz Gokhan , Joof Sulayman , Akinci Mehmet N. , Akduman Ibrahim , Odabasi Hayrettin
Published: March 2024

To assess the performance of microwave brain imaging (MWBI) systems, an anthropomorphic multifunctional head phantom with long life, low cost, and reliable dielectric properties over the intended frequency range is a principal requisite. A solid head model has been developed using a mold casting method, incorporating graphite, aluminum oxide, carbon black powder, and brass powder with epoxy/hardener. Four healthy solid brain tissues consisting of skin, skull, gray matter, and white matter are fabricated to mimic realistic head tissue properties along with cerebrospinal fluid. The constructed head model incorporates four cavities of varying sizes and positions, designed to accommodate healthy or unhealthy cores, thereby simulating diverse stroke scenarios without necessitating separate healthy and unhealthy models. Utilizing a single‐head model preserves dielectric properties during comparative analysis (healthy/unhealthy), except for core components. Tissue properties were measured twice, three months apart, showing good agreement between theoretical and measured results.
Statin administration ameliorates ischemia‐induced overactive bladder with improvement of blood flow and anti‐inflammatory effects in rats
Authors: Ishizuka Yuichi , Satake Yohei , Kimura Shingo , Yamashita Shinichi , Kawamorita Naoki , Ito Akihiro
Published: March 2024

Aims

Statins are widely used to treat dyslipidemia and have been shown to reduce the risk of ischemic heart disease and cerebrovascular disease. The effects of statins on ischemia‐induced overactive bladder (OAB) and the associated mechanisms were investigated in a rat model of chronic pelvic ischemia.

Methods

A pelvic ischemia model was created by iliac arterial injury (AI) and a high‐fat diet using male Sprague−Dawley rats. Rats were assigned to 3 groups: control group, AI group, and AI + statin group. The control group underwent sham operation and was fed a normal diet. The AI group underwent AI surgery and was fed a high‐cholesterol diet. The AI + statin group was administered a statin for 4 weeks. Cystometry was performed for 8 weeks after surgery. Blood flow was evaluated by laser meter. Thickness of the iliac arteries was measured, and microvascular density in the lamina propria was evaluated by immunostaining for CD31. Expressions of inflammatory cytokines in the bladder were measured by real‐time PCR.

Results

Cystometry showed a significantly shorter voiding interval and lower bladder capacity in the AI group than in the control group. The AI + statin group showed improvement of these findings. The AI group showed decreased bladder blood flow, increased iliac arterial wall thickening, and decreased microvascular density compared to the control group. Statin administration improved blood flow. Iliac arterial wall thickening was suppressed, and microvascular density was increased by statin administration, though not significantly. Real‐time PCR showed significantly higher expressions of inflammatory cytokines (IL‐6, IL‐8, and TNF‐α) in the AI group than in the control group, and IL‐6 and IL‐8 expressions were lower in the AI + statin group than in the AI group.

Conclusions

The present results suggest that statins are effective in OAB caused by arteriosclerosis and ischemia. The mechanism of their effects involves improved bladder blood flow and decreased bladder inflammation.
Comparison of perioperative adverse events following suburethral sling placement using synthetic mesh, autologous rectus fascia, and autologous fascia lata in a national surgical registry
Authors: Hong Christopher X. , Son Young , Patel Vaishnavi J. , Lince Kimberly , Gupta Priyanka
Published: March 2024

Aims

To assess and compare 30‐day perioperative adverse events following suburethral sling surgery using synthetic mesh, autologous rectus fascia, and autologous fascia lata in women.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study of patients who underwent fascial or synthetic sling placement for stress urinary incontinence between 2008 and 2021 using the American College of Surgeons' National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database. Current Procedural Terminology codes were used to identify patients undergoing each type of sling procedure. Multivariable regression analysis with stepwise regression was used to assess the odds of composite adverse events (e.g., urinary tract infection, surgical site infection, pulmonary embolism, and other reportable events) between cohorts.

Results

Of the 41 533 female patients who underwent isolated suburethral sling placement without concurrent procedures, 41 292 (99.4%) received a synthetic mesh sling, and 241 (0.6%) received an autologous facial sling. In the fascial sling cohort, 160 (66.4%) underwent rectus fascia harvest and 81 (33.6%) underwent fascia lata harvest. Sling surgeries involving autologous fascia were associated with increased odds of adverse events compared to those involving synthetic mesh, even after adjusting for confounders (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 3.63, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.56–5.15). Compared to fascial slings from rectus fascia, slings from fascia lata were associated with increased odds of composite adverse events (aOR: 2.11, 95% CI: 1.03–4.04). However, with the exclusion of urinary tract infections, the adverse event rate was similar between slings using the two fascial harvest techniques (aOR: 1.93, 95% CI: 0.81–4.63).

Conclusions

In this retrospective database study, suburethral sling surgeries using autologous fascia were independently associated with a 3.6‐fold increase in odds of 30‐day perioperative adverse events compared to sling surgeries using synthetic mesh.
Sampling pattern discrepancy in the application of compressed sensing hyperpolarized xenon‐129 lung MRI
Authors: Tavakkoli Mitra , Svenningsen Sarah , Friedlander Yonni , Konyer Norman B. , Nair Parameswaran , Noseworthy Michael D.
Published: March 2024

Although hyperpolarized (HP) 129Xe ventilation MRI can be carried out within a breath hold, it is still challenging for many sick patients. Compressed sensing (CS) is a viable alternative to accelerate this approach. However, undersampled images with identical sampling ratios differ from one another. Twenty subjects (n = 10 healthy and n = 10 patients with asthma) were scanned using a GE MR750 3 T scanner, acquiring fully sampled 2D multi‐slice HP 129Xe lung ventilation images (10 s breath hold, 128 × 80 (FE × PE—frequency encoding × phase encoding) and 16 slices). Using fully sampled data, 500 variable‐density Cartesian random undersampling patterns were generated, each at eight different sampling ratios from 10% to 80%. The parallel imaging and compressed sensing (PICS) command from BART was employed to reconstruct undersampled data. The signal to noise ratio (SNR), structural similarity index measurement (SSIM) and sidelobe to peak ratio of each were subsequently compared. There was a high degree of variation in both SNR and SSIM results from each of the 500 masks of each sampling rate. As the undersampling increases, there is more variation in the quantifying metrics, for both healthy and asthmatic individuals. Our study shows that random undersampling poses a significant challenge when applied at sampling ratios less than 60%, despite fulfilling CS's incoherency criteria. Such low sampling ratios will result in a large variety of undersampling patterns. Therefore, skipped segments of k‐space cannot be allowed to happen randomly at low sampling rates. By optimizing the sampling pattern, CS will reach its full potential and be able to be applied to a highly undersampled 129Xe lung dataset.
L2$$ {L}_2 $$‐gain analysis and fault‐tolerant control for nonlinear discrete‐time switched systems with time‐varying delay and actuator saturation
Authors: Guo Hu , Li Huiju , Zhang Xinquan
Published: March 2024

The ‐gain analysis and fault‐tolerant control of a class of uncertain nonlinear discrete‐time switched systems with time‐varying delay and actuator saturation are studied by using the multiple Lyapunov functions method. The fault‐tolerant state feedback controllers and the switching law are designed such that the closed‐loop system with actuator failures satisfies the disturbance attenuation performance indicator. The problem of estimating the capacity of admissible disturbance is transformed into a constrained optimization problem to ensure that the state trajectory of the closed‐loop system is bounded under the action of external disturbances. The upper bound of restricted ‐gain is estimated by solving constrained optimization problems. Then, when the fault‐tolerant controller can be regard as the design variable, the optimization problems above are adjusted for solving control synthesis problems. Finally, the numerical example is given to verify the effectiveness of the design method.
Surgical Resection Improves Overall Survival in cT4b Major Salivary Gland Cancer
Authors: Patel Aman M. , Haleem Afash , Choudhry Hassaam S. , Brant Jason A. , Brody Robert M. , Carey Ryan M.
Published: March 2024

Objective

To compare surgical and nonsurgical definitive treatment in cT4b major salivary gland cancer (MSGC).

Study Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

The 2004 to 2019 National Cancer Database.

Methods

The NCDB was queried for patients with cT4b MSGC (N = 976). Patients undergoing definitive treatment with (1) surgical resection + adjuvant therapy, (2) radiotherapy (RT) alone, or (3) chemoradiotherapy (CRT) were included in Kaplan‐Meier and Cox survival analyses.

Results

Of 219 patients undergoing definitive treatment, 148 (67.6%) underwent surgical resection + adjuvant therapy and 71 (32.4%) underwent RT or CRT. There were no documented mortalities within 90 days of surgical resection. Tumor diameter and nodal metastasis were associated with decreased odds of undergoing definitive treatment (P < 0.025). Patients with positive surgical margins (PSM) had higher 5‐year overall survival (OS) than those undergoing definitive RT or CRT (48.5% vs 30.1%, P = 0.018) and similar 5‐year OS as those with negative margins (48.5% vs 54.0%, P = 0.205). Surgical resection + adjuvant therapy (adjusted hazard ratio: 0.55, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.37‐0.84) was associated with higher OS than definitive RT or CRT (P < 0.025). A separate cohort of 961 patients with cT4a tumors undergoing surgical resection + adjuvant therapy was created; cT4a and cT4b (hazard ratio: 1.02, 95% CI: 0.80‐1.29, P = 0.896) tumors had similar OS.

Conclusion

A minority of patients with cT4b MSGC undergo definitive treatment. Surgical resection + adjuvant therapy was safe and associated with higher OS than definitive RT or CRT, despite high rate of PSM. In the absence of clinical trial data, appropriately selected patients with cT4b MSGC may benefit from surgical resection.
Safety of Ambulatory Surgery For Obstructive Sleep Apnea: A Retrospective Review
Authors: Bertoni Dylan Gregory , Garvey Emily , Garg Neha , Amin Dev , Tekumalla Sruti , Mann Derek , Naimi Bita , Zhan Tingting , Hunt Patrick , Boon Maurits , Huntley Colin
Published: March 2024

Objective

Assess the safety of ambulatory surgery performed for obstructive sleep apnea.

Study Design

Retrospective chart review.

Setting

Tertiary care hospital.

Methods

Demographic data including age, gender, race, body mass index, insurance status, socioeconomic status, and distance traveled for surgery was collected, as well as comorbidities, and apnea‐hypopnea index (AHI). Outcome variables included continuous positive airway pressure reinitiation, planned/unplanned postoperative admission, emergency department (ED) presentation, or readmission within 7 and 14 days of surgery.

Results

A total of 601 patients were included, who underwent sleep surgery between 2017 and 2022. The median age was 55 years [interquartile range: 19]. A total of 437 patients (73%) were male, 502 (84%) were Caucasian, and the median distance traveled was 20 miles [27]. The median AHI was 27.1 [26]. A total of 286 hypoglossal nerve stimulators, 12 tonsillectomies, 160 expansion sphincteroplasties (ESP), and 201 nasal procedures were performed. There were 9 (1%) planned and 23 (4%) total admissions postoperatively. Sixteen patients (2%) presented to ED within 7 days, and 22 (3%) within 14 days. Nine (1%) were readmitted within 7 days, and 12 (2%) within 14 days. There were significantly more planned admissions, unplanned admissions, ED presentations, and readmissions for ESP. There were no significant differences in demographic or clinical data between patients who underwent single versus multiple surgeries.

Conclusion

Outpatient sleep surgery is generally safe. Close postoperative monitoring is necessary and overnight observation should be considered in those with very severe sleep apnea and/or significant comorbidities. The distance a patient travels should also be considered for overnight admission.
Survival Impact of Elective Neck Dissection and Adjuvant Radiation in N0 High‐Grade Mucoepidermoid Carcinoma
Authors: Panara Kush , Sangal Neel , Lakshmipathy Deepak , Rajasekaran Karthik
Published: March 2024

Objective

We aim to evaluate the role of elective neck dissection (END) and adjuvant radiation on survival in N0 high‐grade mucoepidermoid carcinoma (MEC).

Study Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

National Cancer Institute's Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database.

Methods

All patients diagnosed with high‐grade MEC with node‐negative disease (N0) from 2004 to 2018 were included. Demographic, clinicopathologic, treatment, and outcomes were analyzed. Kaplan‐Meier survival curves were used to evaluate 5‐year disease‐specific survival (DSS) and 5‐year overall survival (OS). Multivariate Cox regression analysis was used to control for confounders.

Results

A total of 310 patients with high‐grade MEC and N0 (clinical and pathologic) disease were identified. The parotid was the most common primary site (266, 86%). Of included patients, 133 (42.9%) were T3‐T4 tumors and 212 (68%) received adjuvant radiation. END was performed on 223 (71.9%) of cases. END in T3‐T4 high‐grade MEC led to significant improvements in DSS (74.3% vs 34.0%, P < .01) and OS (55.2% vs 20.5%, P < .01) as compared to no END. Subanalysis shows that in patients who received neck dissections and were pathologic N0, adjuvant radiation had no impact on DSS (84.0% vs 72.1%, P = .45) and OS (52.1% vs 55.8%, P = .91). Benefits persisted when controlling for confounders using multivariate Cox proportional regression.

Conclusion

Patients with T3‐T4 high‐grade MEC who underwent END and found to be pathologically node‐negative (pN0) had significantly improved 5‐year DSS and 5‐year OS than patients who were cN0 and did not undergo END. Importantly, although 68% of patients received adjuvant radiation, we show no benefit of this treatment modality on outcomes in pN0 high‐grade MEC.
Electrochemical intercalation of anions into graphite: Fundamental aspects, material synthesis, and application to the cathode of dual‐ion batteries
Authors: Matsuo Yoshiaki , Inoo Akane , Inamoto Junichi
Published: March 2024

In this review, fundamental aspects of the electrochemical intercalation of anions into graphite have been first summarized, and then described the electrochemical preparation of covalent‐type GICs and application of graphite as the cathode of dual‐ion battery. Electrochemical overoxidation of anion GICs provides graphite oxide and covalent‐fluorine GICs, which are key functional materials for various applications including energy storage devices. The reaction conditions to obtain fully oxidized graphite has been mentioned. Concerning the application of graphite for the cathode of dual‐ion battery, it stably delivers about 110 mA h g−1 of reversible capacity in usual organic electrolyte solutions. The combination of anion and solvent as well as the concentration of the anions in the electrolyte solutions greatly affect the performance of graphite cathode such as oxidation potential, rate capability, cycling properties, etc. The interfacial phenomenon is also important, and fundamental studies of charge transfer resistance, anion diffusion coefficient, and surface film formation behavior have also been summarized. The use of smaller anions, such as AlCl4−, Br− can increase the capacity of graphite cathode. Several efforts on the structural modification of graphite and development of electrolyte solutions in which graphite cathode delivers higher capacity were also described.
Effect of Co‐Surfactants on Properties and Bactericidal Activity of Cu2O and Hybrid Cu2O/Ag Particles
Authors: Xuan Thang Dam , Thuy Chinh Nguyen , Thi Binh Minh Nguyen , Hoang Nghia Trinh , Hoang Thai
Published: March 2024

Nanomaterials based on metal oxides, especially Cu2O, have received much attention in recent years due to the many unique properties of the surface plasmon resonance they provide. The report presented the co‐precipitation method, a simple preparation method to produce Cu2O oxide particles. In addition, to improve the unique antibacterial properties of Cu2O, a proposed method is to attach Ag nanoparticles to the surface of Cu2O particles. The Cu2O and Cu2O−Ag particles were synthesized based on redox reactions using ascorbic acid (LAA) as a reducing agent. Moreover, in this experiment, two surfactants, polyethylene glycol 6000 (PEG 6000) and sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS), were added during the manufacturing process to create particle samples and particle combinations with better properties than the original sample. Changes in the characteristics and properties of particle samples are determined by many different physical and chemical methods such as ultraviolet‐visible spectroscopy (UV‐Vis), infrared spectroscopy (IR), noise X‐ray radiation (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), dynamic light scattering (DLS), energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDS), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Finally, the activity against bacteria, including E. coli and S. aureus, was also tested using the agar well diffusion method to determine the zone of inhibition. The results improved the particle size value, which decreased by half to 200 nm when two additional surfactants, PEG and SDS, were added. In addition, the antibacterial ability has also been shown to increase significantly when the diameter of the bacterial inhibition zone increased significantly, reaching values of 20 mm (Cu2O/Ag/SDS) and 32 mm (Cu2O/Ag/PEG) for the E. coli bacterial strain. The initial test sample was only about 14 mm in size. The S. aureus bacterial strain also had a similar improvement trend after adding Ag to the Cu2O surface with the appearance of two surfactants, SDS and PEG. The inhibition zone diameter values reached the optimal value at 36 mm in the Cu2O/Ag/PEG particle combination sample compared to only the initial 26 mm in the Cu2O particle sample. Finally, the particle samples are added to the acrylic emulsion paint film to evaluate the changes. Positive results were obtained, such as improvement in adhesion (1.22 MPa), relative hardness (240/425), and sand drop resistance (100 L/mil) in the Cu2O/Ag/PEG particle combination sample, which showed the correctness and accuracy of the research.
Orthognathic surgery in a patient with osteogenesis imperfecta and low von Willebrand factor
Authors: Himejima Akio , Ueno Shuji , Yamada Koji , Kamitani Masayuki , Hosoyama Chikako , Iseki Tomio
Published: March 2024

Background

This report describes the case of a patient with jaw deformity, osteogenesis imperfecta (OI), and low von Willebrand factor (low VWF).

Case presentation

A 30‐year‐old woman with OI was referred for the treatment of prognathism of the lower jaw. Laboratory data showed that partial thromboplastin time was slightly increased, so additional testing was performed and revealed low VWF. The patient was then administered 1‐desamino‐8‐D‐arginine vasopressin before orthognathic surgery and experienced no hemorrhagic episodes perioperatively.

Conclusion

As both OI patients and low VWF patients are at greater risk of hemorrhage, surgery in such cases should be performed with due consideration of and preparation for bleeding.
Effects of reactive diluent on processing, structure, and properties of epoxy foams and their sandwich composites
Authors: Wang Daobei , Wang Xiaowen , Han Kaiyang , Wang Dongzhi , Yao Zhiqiang , Yu Mingdong , Zhao Dajuan , Liu Huashi
Published: March 2024

Foam sandwich composite (FSC) has recently been widely used in transportation, aerospace, shipping, and construction because of its lightweight, high specific strength, stiffness, and fatigue resistance characteristics. This study aimed to prepare, characterize, and test FSC with different diluent addition amounts. Benzyl glycidyl ester was added to the epoxy foam (EF) as a reactive diluent. Then, the EF was introduced into the three‐dimensional hollow composite (3DHC) by vacuum introduction process to prepare the FSC. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and thermogravimetric analysis demonstrated that increased diluent content enhanced SiN bond formation, augmenting thermal stability in resin molecules. The effects of different diluents on the mechanical properties of FSC showed that the mechanical properties of FSC were the best when the diluent content was 5 wt%. Compared with 3DHC, the flat compressive strength, flat tensile strength, and shear strength were increased by 7.2, 6.4, and 2.9 times, respectively.

Highlights

Diluent improves foaming agent dispersion by lowering resin viscosity.

Diluent makes the EP easier to be introduced into 3DHC.

FSC demonstrates a 723% increase in flat compression strength.
Autism and neurodevelopmental disability risks in children with tracheostomies and ventilators
Authors: Sobotka Sarah A. , Lynch Emma , Liao Chuanhong , Graham Robert J. , Msall Michael E.
Published: March 2024

Background/Objective

Infants who survive prematurity and other critical illnesses and require continued invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) postdischarge (at home) are at high risk of developmental delays and disabilities. Studies of extremely preterm cohorts (<28‐week gestation) demonstrate rates of 25% for intellectual disability (ID) and 7% for autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Rates of ASD and ID in children with IMV are unknown. This study aimed to determine neurodevelopmental disability risk in a cohort of children with postdischarge IMV.

Design/Methods

A consecutive series of children with IMV were assessed 1 month, 6 months, and 1 year after discharge. Cognitive, social, and communicative domains were assessed by a Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrician using (1) clinical adaptive test/clinical linguistic and auditory milestone scale (CAT/CLAMS) of the capute scales; (2) pediatric evaluation of disability inventory computer adaptive test (PEDI‐CAT); and (3) modified checklist for autism in toddlers, revised (MCHAT‐R). Red flag signs and symptoms of ASD using DSM‐V criteria were noted. Longitudinal testing was reviewed. Expert consensus impressions of evolving ASD and/or ID were determined.

Results

Eighteen children were followed for 1 year; at 1 year, the median age (range) was 23 (17–42) months. Children were 44% male, 33% non‐Hispanic White, 39% non‐Hispanic Black, and 28% Hispanic. Fifteen (83%) children were prematurity survivors. Median (range) developmental quotients (DQs): full‐scale DQ 59 (11–86), CAT DQ 66.5 (8–96), and CLAMS DQ 49.5 (13–100). Twelve (67%) children were highly suspicious for ASD and/or evolving ID.

Conclusions/Significance

This cohort of children with at‐home IMV demonstrates a higher risk of ASD and ID than prior premature cohorts. Larger investigations with longer follow‐up are needed.
“If you smile, they smile”: Explaining highly educated migrants' feelings of being welcome in the Euregio Meuse‐Rhine
Authors: Reinold Julia , Hooijen Inge , Özer Merve
Published: March 2024

Creating a welcoming environment is high on policy makers' agendas to attract highly educated migrants. It is unclear, however, which factors contribute to migrants' feelings of being welcome in the host country. This paper addresses this knowledge gap by exploring the factors influencing highly educated migrants' feelings of being welcome in the host country. We develop a conceptual framework that differentiates between the host country's institutional (e.g., public services for migrants) and societal (e.g., tolerance, friendliness) incorporation capacity and the migrants' personal incorporation capacity (e.g., personality traits). The study follows a mixed methods research design using survey data (n = 391) and serial interviews (wave1: n = 67; wave2: n = 49) with highly educated migrants in the Euregio Meuse‐Rhine, a cross‐border region between the Netherlands, Belgium and Germany. The quantitative and qualitative findings indicate that all three indicators of the incorporation capacity framework contribute to migrants' feelings of being welcome in the host country. The societal incorporation capacity emerges as most important in the analysis. Lastly, interview findings emphasise the importance of language across all incorporation capacity dimensions. The paper contributes to the literature on high‐skilled migration, and particularly on high‐skilled migrants' experiences in the host country.
New horizons for the study of saffron (Crocus sativus L.) and its active ingredients in the management of neurological and psychiatric disorders: A systematic review of clinical evidence and mechanisms
Authors: Han Shufen , Cao Yifei , Wu Xingrong , Xu Jiaoyang , Nie Zizheng , Qiu Yue
Published: March 2024

Saffron (Crocus sativus), as an herbal medicine, has been extensively investigated for treating neurological and psychiatric disorders. This systematic review aimed to assess the overall effects of saffron on cognition, depression, anxiety, sleep disorders, attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD). Relevant randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were identified by searching PubMed/Medline, Web of Science, and Clinical Trials databases up to June 2023 according to search terms and inclusion criteria. The participants were either healthy or suffering from some diseases, including neurological and psychiatric disorders, and consumed saffron or its extracts as an intervention. The risk of bias was assessed according to the Cochrane guidelines, and the PRISMA statement was followed. The meta‐analysis was performed using RevMan and STATA software. A random‐effects or fixed‐effects model was used to calculate the pooled effect sizes. Forty‐six RCTs were enrolled, and the duration of these trials ranged from 4 to 48 weeks with saffron or its extracts, both alone or in combination with conventional drugs. Saffron was more effective than placebo in improving cognition, depression with an overall effect size of −4.26 (95% CI: −5.76, −2.77), anxiety of −3.75 (95% CI: −5.83, −1.67), and sleep disorders of −1.91 (95% CI: −2.88, −0.93). Saffron was non‐inferior to conventional drugs for treating cognitive disorders, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and OCD, and it exhibited good tolerance with few side effects. Saffron may exert protective roles for neurological and psychiatric disorders and represents a relatively favorable and safe treatment.
Fault prognosis for linear stochastic systems with intermittent fault and strong noise via health indicator extraction approach
Authors: Huai Wuxiang , Gao Ming , Liu Shiyang , Sheng Li
Published: March 2024

In this paper, the problem of fault prognosis is investigated for linear stochastic systems with intermittent faults (IFs) and strong noise. Different from permanent faults, the degradation state of IFs are related to the fault duration time, leading to difficulties in the first step of fault prognosis, that is, the health indicator (HI) extraction. Generally, HI extraction of IFs is achieved by fault detection techniques. Therefore, the proposed fault prognosis approach mainly covers the following steps. First, the HI and degradation model are introduced for linear stochastic systems with IFs. Then, considering dynamic characteristic of systems and influence of strong noise, an IF detection algorithm under strong noise is proposed using weighted moving average methods to extract the HI. Moreover, an alternative HI extraction approach is given by an HI estimation way, which avoids using fault detection techniques. Subsequently, the degradation model is fitted by virtue of HIs and the least square method, and the remaining useful life is predicted with the aid of the obtained model. Finally, an experiment concerning the rotary steerable drilling tool system is provided to verify the effectiveness of the derived results.
Atom Mediated Single‐Photon Nonlinearity in a Quadratically Coupled Optomechanical System
Authors: Liu Q. H. , Wang G. C. , Luan T. Z. , Shen H. Z.
Published: March 2024

In this paper, conventional phonon blockade (CPNB) and conventional photon blockade (CPTB) effects, as well as unconventional phonon blockade (UPB) effects, are studied in an optomechanical system with nonlinear interaction between the cavity frequency and the square of the mechanical displacement driven by an external field, where a two‐level atom couples with the mechanical mode and a microwave driving field pumps cavity mode. The second‐order correlation function is analytically calculated, which is in good agreement with the numerical simulation given by the master equation. With energy‐level diagram, the atom‐mechanical mode coupling is found to induces the degeneracy splitting of the states and give the optimal conditions for CPNB and CPTB in this system. With the origin of UPB, the optimal conditions are derived and it is found that the realization of UPB is determined by the two couplings of the cavity and atom with respect to the mechanical mode. Moreover, some discussions on the experimental implementation in this quadratically coupled optomechanical system are presented. This study provides a possible way for realizing single‐photon nonlinearity and can extend the applications of optomechanical systems in the field of quantum optics.
Juvenile salmonid abundance in a diamictic semi‐fluvial stream in Norway—does stream bed shelter beat large woody debris?
Authors: Bretzel Joachim B. , Pulg Ulrich , Geist Juergen
Published: March 2024

This study investigates the effect of large woody debris (LWD) on the abundance of juvenile Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar, L.) and anadromous brown trout (Salmo trutta, L.) in semi‐alluvial side channels of the river Aurlandselva (Norway) using point electrofishing and microhabitat mapping. Not the presence of LWD, but stream bed shelter availability and the distance to spawning grounds affected the fish abundance (fish/point), independent of other habitat components. LWD showed only an effect on fish abundance when in interaction with other habitat components. This discrepancy can be explained by the availability of cavities in the shelter‐rich coarse substrate which provide sufficient cover and territory for juvenile fish at the given carrying capacity of river Aurlandselva. Whilst LWD may be most effective to provide shelter in lowland streams (bed slope <0.005), maintaining or restoring shelter‐rich coarse substrates should be considered a key priority in steeper salmonid rivers and associated semi‐fluvial streams.
Understanding consumer choices and attitudes toward electric vehicles: A study of purchasing behavior and policy implications
Authors: Gautam Deepak , Bolia Nomesh
Published: March 2024

Electric vehicles (EVs) hold promise for curbing emissions and promoting sustainable urban development in India, aligning with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). However, their uptake remains below expectations. This study delves into factors influencing EV adoption, exploring socioeconomic determinants, technical specifications, cost considerations, and policy impacts. It also assesses the role of charging infrastructure accessibility, demographic disparities, and battery end‐of‐life perceptions. The research identifies key socio‐economic factors driving consumer choices and perceptions of EVs through a comprehensive survey and logistic regression analysis. The findings will guide policymakers and businesses in developing effective strategies to promote EV use, supporting SDGs related to sustainable cities, communities, and economic growth. The insights gained from this study can inspire private sector growth and innovation, leading to new business opportunities that benefit companies and consumers. This research represents a crucial milestone in advancing sustainable transportation solutions in India and creating a better future.
When experiencing nice interactions at work: Good sleep quality via well‐being
Authors: Yun Mansik , Beehr Terry
Published: March 2024

Based on the Work–Home Resources Model and Conservation of Resources Theory, we develop dual mechanisms by which nice interactions (patients' compliments and coworkers' informational support) predict sleep quality. Specifically, we expect these nice interactions to help individuals conserve their personal energy in the form of less cognitive depletion (a cognitive process) and diminished physical fatigue (a physical process). Further, we propose employees utilise their energy resources to experience better sleep quality. To test the proposed model, we utilised an experience‐sampling method by recruiting 223 female nurses working in a regional university hospital in South Korea. Specifically, we measured nice interactions and personal resources at 3 PM on Day t and sleep quality at 5–6 AM on Day t + 1, and we administered the questionnaire for 10 consecutive days. Overall, after removing 79 invalid observations (not completing questionnaire in a timely manner), we had a final total of two‐wave 1997 daily observations from 223 nurses. Receiving more compliments from patients and more information from coworkers positively affects nurses' cognitive energy (less cognitive depletion) and physical energy (less physical fatigue), which predicts better sleep quality. Finally, results supported indirect effects of these nice interactions on sleep quality via cognitive and physical processes.
Two‐Dimensional Heterostructure Complementary Logic Enabled by Optical Writing
Authors: Ali Ayaz , Schrade Matthias , Xing Wen , Vullum Per Erik , Koybasi Ozhan , Taniguchi Takashi , Watanabe Kenji , Belle Branson D.
Published: March 2024

Integrated logic circuits using atomically thin, two‐dimensional (2D) materials offer several potential advantages compared to established silicon technologies such as increased transistor density, circuit complexity, and lower energy dissipation leading to scaling benefits. In this article, a novel approach to achieve tunable doping in 2D semiconductors is explored to achieve complementary transistors and logic integration. By selectively transferring WSe2 onto hBN and SiO2 substrates, complementary transistor behavior (n‐ and p‐type) was achieved using a UV light source and electrostatic activation. Furthermore, advanced characterization techniques, including high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) and Kelvin probe force microscopy (KPFM), provided insights into the chemical composition and surface potential changes after UV writing. Finally, a logic inverter was successfully implemented using selectively photo‐induced doped WSe2 transistors, showcasing the potential for practical logic applications. This innovative method opens new avenues for designing energy‐efficient and reconfigurable 2D semiconductor circuits, addressing key challenges in modern electronics.
Cognitively Driven Autonomous Flow Chemistry for Producing On‐Demand Perovskite Quantum Dots Via Advanced Closed‐Loop Feedback Control
Authors: Nguyen Thi Thuy Huong , Bui Hoang Khang , Im Ju Yeon , Seo Tae Seok
Published: March 2024

Recent developments in the synthesis of hybrid organic–inorganic halide perovskite quantum dots (HP‐QDs) through compositional adjustments have highlighted their potential applications in the fields of photovoltaics and light sources due to their unique optoelectronic properties. However, traditional methods to fine‐tune their composition involve repetitive, labor‐intensive, and costly processes. Herein, the utilization of a continuous flow chemistry approach is developed, in combination with a Proportional‐Integral (PI) feedback control system as an effective method for producing on‐demand methylammonium lead bromoiodide (MAPbBrxI3‐x) HP‐QDs. The PI feedback control allows for real‐time optimization of the flow rates of halide precursor solutions (halide PSs), enabling the precise tuning of the emission wavelength of HP‐QDs. HP‐QDs having an emission wavelength of 550 and 650 nm are synthesized through a blue‐shifted and red‐shifted algorithm, respectively, from any arbitrary reaction condition within 400 s. The iterative process through the PI feedback control produces the target HP‐QDs with short rise time and low overshoot. The proposed automatic flow chemistry system integrated with a universal and accessible control algorithm of PI can generate the target HP‐QDs with high accuracy, stability, and robustness, demonstrating a significant advancement in constructing an autonomous flow chemistry synthetic system.