bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ligand Functionalization of Metal‐Organic Frameworks for Photocatalytic H2O2 Production
Authors: Qiu Jianhao , Yao Jianfeng
Published: February 2024

H2O2 production by photocatalysis has received considerable attention, while using MOF‐based materials as photocatalysts is still less explored. Ligand functionalization of MOFs is a decoration way at the molecular level, which provides the basis for the further modification of MOFs. In this concept, ligand functionalization of MOFs for photocatalytic H2O2 production has been systematically and extensively discussed. The strategies of ligand functionalization include grafting of functional groups (e. g. amino, methoxyl, boron and alkyl) and multiple ligand decoration. Correspondingly, some specific effects are achieved, e. g. improved charge carrier separation, enhanced O2 adsorption and hydrophobicity, which can realize efficient H2O2 production by photocatalysis. Meanwhile, reaction conditions and activities of photocatalytic H2O2 production have also been explicitly introduced in these studies. At last, the future perspectives are proposed. This concept sheds fresh light on the great potential of ligand functionalization of MOFs for photocatalytic H2O2 production.
A preliminary study characterizing temporal changes in soil bacterial communities after dismembered bones were buried
Authors: Wang Jiaqi , Liu Zidong , Ren Jianbo , Zhang Mingming , Guan Zimeng , Zhao Xingchun , Gao Cairong , Zhang Gengqian
Published: February 2024

Determining the burial time of skeletal remains is one of the most important issues of forensic medicine. We speculated that the microbiome of gravesoil may be a promising method to infer burial time by virtue of time‐dependent. As we know, forensic scientists have established various models to predict the postmortem interval of a decedent based on the changes in body and soil microbiome communities. However, limited data are available on the burial time prediction for bones, especially dismembered bones. In this exploratory study, we initially conducted 16S rRNA amplicon high‐throughput sequencing on the burial soil of 10 porcine femurs within a 120‐day period and analyzed the changes in soil microbial communities. Compared with the control soil, a higher Shannon index in the microbial diversity of burial soil containing bones was observed. Correlation analysis identified 61 time‐related bacterial families and the best subset selection method obtained best subset, containing Thermomonosporaceae, Clostridiaceae, 0319‐A21, and Oxalobacteraceae, which were used to construct a simplified multiple linear regression model with a mean absolute error (MAE) of 56.69 accumulated degree day (ADD). An additional random forest model was established based on indicators for the minimum cross‐validation error of Thermomonosporaceae, Clostridiaceae, 0319‐A21, Oxalobacteraceae, and Syntrophobacteraceae, with an MAE of 55.65 ADD. The produced empirical data in this pilot study provided the evidence of feasibility that the microbial successional changes of burial soil will predict the burial time of dismembered bones and may also expand the current knowledge of the effects of bone burial on soil bacterial communities.
Comparative analysis of micronucleus induction and DNA damage biomarkers in TK6 and A375 cells using flow cytometry
Authors: Sun Xiaowen , Spellman Richard A. , Engel Maria , Rubitski Elizabeth , Schuler Maik
Published: February 2024

Previously, we introduced an alternative adherent A375 cell line for clastogenicity and aneugenicity testing using a high content imaging platform. To further characterize the performance of A375 cells, we investigated the sensitivity and specificity of A375 and TK6 cells by directly comparing micronucleus (MN) induction, cytotoxicity (relative cell counts, viability, and apoptosis), clastogenicity (γH2AX), and aneuploidy markers (pH 3, MPM‐2, and polyploidy) using flow cytometric methods. We evaluated 14 compounds across different mechanisms (non‐genotoxic apoptosis inducers, clastogens, and aneugens with either tubulin binding or aurora kinase inhibiting phenotypes) at 4‐h and 24‐h post treatment. Both aneugens and clastogens tested positive for micronucleus induction in both cell lines. Apoptosis continued to be a confounding factor for flow cytometry‐based micronuclei assessment in TK6 cells as evidenced by positive responses by the three cytotoxicants. Conversely, A375 cells were not affected by apoptosis‐related false positive signals and did not produce a positive response in the in vitro micronucleus assay. Benchmark dose response (BMD) analysis showed that the induction of micronuclei and biomarkers occurred at similar concentrations in both cell lines for clastogens and aneugens. By showing that A375 cells have similar sensitivity to TK6 cells but a greater specificity, these results provide additional support for A375 cells to be used as an alternative adherent cell line for in vitro genetic toxicology assessment.
Interactions between antiseizure medications and foods and drinks: A systematic review
Authors: Asadi‐Pooya Ali A. , Johannessen Landmark Cecilie , Mirzaei Damabi Nafiseh , Fazelian Khatereh
Published: February 2024

Antiseizure medications (ASMs) constitute the principal of treatment for patients with epilepsy, where long‐term treatment is usually necessary. The purpose of this systematic review is to provide practical and useful information regarding various aspects of the interactions between ASMs and foods and drinks. MEDLINE and ScienceDirect, from the inception to July 15, 2023, were searched for related publications. In both electronic databases, the following search strategy was applied, and the following keywords were used (in title/abstract): “food OR drink” AND “antiepileptic OR antiseizure.” The primary search yielded 738 studies. After implementing our inclusion and exclusion criteria, we could identify 19 studies on the issue of interest for our endeavor. Four studies were identified in the recheck process and not by the primary search. All studies provided low level of evidence. Interactions between foods and ASMs are a common phenomenon. Many factors may play a role for such an interaction to come to play; these include drug properties, administration route, and administration schedule, among others. Drugs‐foods (‐drinks) interactions may change the drug exposure or plasma levels of drugs (e.g., grapefruit juice increases carbamazepine concentrations and the bioavailability of cannabidiol is increased 4–5 folds with concomitant intake of fat‐rich food); this may require dosage adjustments. Interactions between ASMs and foods and drinks may be important. This should be taken seriously into consideration when consulting patients and their caregivers about ASMs. Future well‐designed investigations should explore the specific interactions between foods (and drinks) and ASMs to clarify whether they are clinically important.

Plain Language Summary

Interactions between antiseizure medications and foods and drinks may be important. This should be taken into consideration in patients with epilepsy.
Testing and refinement of elemental proxies in tropical lakes from the Indian subcontinent
Authors: Mishra Praveen Kumar , Jehangir Arshid , Yousuf Abdul Rehman , Prasad Sushma , Anoop Ambili , Gaye Birgit
Published: February 2024

The conventional approach of using modern values of lake hydrochemistry and sediment composition as key parameters for identifying proxies for environmental reconstruction is complicated by regional climate, catchment geology, lake morphometry and anthropogenic input. In contrast to modern studies from lakes in the north‐temperate regions, reliable proxy indicators for past environmental change from tropical lake systems are still lacking. In this study, we compare new surface geochemical and mineralogical data from the Manasbal Lake, Kashmir (India), with other lakes situated in climatically and geomorphologically distinct regimes with varying degrees of pollution (Tso Moriri in north‐western Himalaya and Lonar in central India). We characterise external (e.g., geology and weathering), internal (e.g., lake water mixing and evaporation) factors and human activities influencing sediment composition and spatial distribution of proxies in each of these lakes to evaluate the usefulness of some of the commonly used proxies, as well as ascertain conditions where they might be applicable. Our results show that (i) morphometric parameters (such as lake size, water depth and catchment vs. lake area) variably influence the spatial distribution of sediments and proxies on the lake bottom highlighting the limitations of using single cores for long‐term palaeoclimate reconstruction; (ii) hydrochemical proxies (such as Na+/Na++Ca2+and Mg/Ca) can delineate endogenic (Lonar and Tso Moriri lakes) versus allogenic (Manasbal Lake) influence on modern sediment characteristics; (iii) the compilation of heavy metal data (e.g., Fe, Zn, Mn, Cr and Ni) from all three lake basins with varying degrees of pollution highlights the limitations of using them to characterise weathering conditions in these basins; and (iv) human impact must be precluded before using the most promising endogenic minerals (calcite, aragonite, gypsum and pyrite) as palaeoenvironmental/palaeoclimate indicators.
Moving least‐squares aided finite element method: A powerful means to predict flow fields in the presence of a solid part
Authors: Mostafaiyan Mehdi , Wießner Sven , Heinrich Gert
Published: February 2024

With the assistance of the moving least‐squares (MLS) interpolation functions, a two‐dimensional finite element code is developed to consider the effects of a stationary or moving solid body in a flow domain. At the same time, the mesh or grid is independent of the shape of the solid body. We achieve this goal in two steps. In the first step, we use MLS interpolants to enhance the pressure (P) and velocity (V) shape functions. By this means, we capture different discontinuities in a flow domain. In our previous publications, we have named this technique the PVMLS method (pressure and velocity shape functions enhanced by the MLS interpolants) and described it thoroughly. In the second step, we modify the PVMLS method (the M‐PVMLS method) to consider the effect of a solid part(s) in a flow domain. To evaluate the new method's performance, we compare the results of the M‐PVMLS method with a finite element code that uses boundary‐fitted meshes.
Immunosuppression and cancer risk in kidney transplant recipients: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Sapir‐Pichhadze Ruth , Laprise Claudie , Beauchamp Marie‐Eve , Kaouache Mohammed , Zhang Xun , Della Vecchia Alexia , Azoulay Laurent , Franco Eduardo L. , Abrahamowicz Michal , Nicolau Belinda
Published: February 2024

We assessed whether contemporary immunosuppression agents were associated with cancer among kidney transplant recipients (KTR), and if this association varied by age and sex. We studied a retrospective province‐wide cohort of primary KTR (1997–2016). Employing multivariable Cox models, we estimated associations of cumulative doses of prednisone, mycophenolate and tacrolimus administered over the past 10 years, lagged by 2 years, with the incidence of primary malignant neoplasms (PMN). We assessed interactions with age and sex. To assess the impact of exposure recency, we used weighted cumulative exposure (WCE) modeling. Among 1064 KTR, 108 (10.2%) developed PMN over median follow‐up of 73 months (interquartile range: 32–120). Adjusted hazard ratios (aHRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of 0.96 (0.64–1.43), 1.34 (0.96–1.86), and 1.06 (0.88–1.29) were estimated for cumulative daily doses of prednisone (5 mg), mycophenolate (1000 mg), and tacrolimus (2 mg) administered continuously over the past 10 years, respectively. PMN risk associated with cumulative tacrolimus exposure was modified by age (interaction p = .035) and was more pronounced in 15‐year and 30‐year‐old KTR (aHRs of 1.57 [1.08–2.28] and 1.31 [1.03–1.66], respectively) in comparison to older KTR. PMN risk increase associated with higher cumulative mycophenolate dose was more pronounced in females (aHR = 1.86 [1.15–3.00]) than in males (aHR = 1.16 [0.74–1.81]; interaction p = .131). WCE analyses suggested increased PMN risk the higher the mycophenolate doses taken 5–10 years ago. A trend toward increased PMN risk with long‐term mycophenolate exposure, particularly in females, and more pronounced risk with long‐term tacrolimus exposure in younger KTR, identify opportunities for tailored immunosuppression to mitigate cancer risk.
Sonographic appearance of focal liver lesions and likelihood of hepatocellular carcinoma in adult Thais with chronic hepatitis B virus infection
Authors: Suttivanich Sarana , Soonklang Kamonwan , Hiranrat Pantajaree , Siripongsakun Surachate
Published: February 2024

Purpose

The objective of our study was to study and compare the sonographic findings of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and benign liver lesions, and apply these to an HCC surveillance program in patient with chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV).

Methods

Sonographic findings of HCC and benign liver lesions were retrospectively reviewed following diagnosis based on either computer tomography or magnetic resonance imaging from July 2010 to December 2020. Multiple sonographic features were analyzed, including internal echogenicity, rim characteristics, and posterior acoustic enhancement. Associations between sonographic characteristics and HCC were assessed using uni‐ and multi‐variate logistic regression analyses.

Results

Of the focal liver lesions in 337 chronic HBV patients, there were 25 HCC and 410 benign lesions, with median sizes of 1.6 and 1.0 cm, respectively. Three ultrasound patterns, homogeneous hypoechogenicity, heterogeneous echogenicity, and hypoechoic rims were more frequently found in HCC than in benign lesions. Moreover, the hypoechoic rim feature was the only sonographic pattern independently associated with HCC (Odds ratio, 68.05; 95% confidence interval, 7.37–628.10; p‐values < 0.001). In a subgroup analysis of the lesions sized 2 cm or smaller, no sonographic findings were associated with HCC.

Conclusion

A hypoechoic rim was a sonographic feature independently associated with HCC. These findings may aid in improving HCC detection and guiding management during HCC screening and surveillance with ultrasound.
Progression from the mean: Cultivating instructors' unique trajectories of practice using educational technology
Authors: Koretsky Milo D. , Nolen Susan Bobbitt , Galisky John , Auby Harpreet , Grundy Lorena S.
Published: February 2024

Background

In taking up educational technology tools and student‐centered instructional practice, there is consensus that instructors consider the unique aspects of their instructional context. However, tool adoption success is often framed narrowly by numerical uptake rates or by conformity with non‐negotiable components.

Purpose

We pursue an alternative ecosystems framing which posits that variability among contexts is fundamental to understanding instructors' uptake of instructional tools and the ways their teaching trajectories develop over time.

Design/Method

Through a multiple‐case study approach using interviews, usage data, surveys, and records of community meetings, we examine 12 instructors' trajectories to illustrate the dynamic uptake of a technology tool.

Results

Cross‐case analysis found that instructors' trajectories are tool‐mediated and community‐mediated. We present five cases in detail. Two foreground ways that instructors gained insight into student learning from student responses in the tool. Two illustrate the role played by the project's Community of Practice (CoP), an extra‐institutional support for deepening practice. The final case illustrates the complexity of an evolving instructional ecosystem and its role in instructors' satisfaction and continued use.

Conclusions

Use of the educational technology tool perturbed ecosystems and supported instructors' evolving trajectories through mediation of instructor and student activity. Instructors' goals guided initial uptake, but both goals and practice were adapted using information from interactions with the tool and the CoP and changes in instructional contexts. The study confirms the need to understand the complexity of the uptake of innovations and illustrates opportunities for educators, developers, and administrators to enhance uptake and support diversity goals.
Codon usage bias of human papillomavirus type 33 and 58: A comprehensive analysis
Authors: Tan Xiaochun , Xie Yucheng , Jiang Chaoyue , Li Hui , Lu Yu , Shen Weifeng , Chen Jing
Published: February 2024

Cervical cancer is closely linked to specific strains of human papillomavirus (HPV), notably HPV‐33 and HPV‐58, which exhibit a significant prevalence among women in China. Nevertheless, the codon usage bias in HPV‐33 and HPV‐58 is not well comprehended. The objective of this research is to analyze the codon usage patterns HPV‐33 and HPV‐58, pinpoint the primary factors that influence codon preference. The overall preference for codon usage in two HPV genotypes is not significant. Both HPV genotypes exhibit a preference for codons that end with A/U. The GC3 content for HPV‐33 is 25.43% ± 0.35%, and for HPV‐58, it is 29.44% ± 0.57%. Out of the 26 favored codons in HPV‐33 and HPV‐58 (relative synonymous codon usage (RSCU) > 1), 25 conclude with A/U. Principal component analysis (PCA) shows a tight clustering of the entire genome sequences of HPV‐33 and HPV‐58, suggesting a similarity in their RSCU preferences. Moreover, an examination of dinucleotide abundance indicated that translation selection influenced the development of a distinctive dinucleotide usage pattern in HPV‐33 and HPV‐58. Additionally, a combined analysis involving an effective number of codons plot, parity rule 2, and neutrality analysis demonstrated that, for HPV‐33 and HPV‐58, the primary determinant influencing codon usage preference is natural selection. HPV‐33 and HPV‐58 exhibit a restricted set of favored codons in common with humans, potentially mitigating competition for translation resources. Our discoveries could provide valuable perspectives on the evolutionary patterns and codon usage preferences of HPV‐33 and HPV‐58 viruses, contributing to the development and application of relevant HPV subtype vaccines.
Is it “all in the bag?” Multidisciplinary perspectives on ostomy surgery in pediatric IBD across the ImproveCareNow network
Authors: David Jennie G. , Dotson Jennifer , Mackner Laura ,   ImproveCareNow Learning Health System
Published: February 2024

Objectives

Pediatric inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic illness with various treatments, including ostomy surgery. Ostomy‐related medical decision‐making (MDM) is complex for multidisciplinary healthcare professionals (HCPs). This study sought to understand national multidisciplinary HCPs' perceptions about pediatric IBD ostomy surgery in the United States.

Methods

This cross‐sectional REDCap survey recruited HCPs in pediatric IBD HCP roles from the ImproveCareNow (ICN) Learning Health System. The survey gathered data on, (1) demographics, (2) participants' perspectives on patients/families' ostomy perceptions, (3) participants' own perspectives on ostomies, and (4) participants' perspectives on multidisciplinary collaboration in ostomy surgery.

Results

Participants (n = 69, across n = 30 American ICN sites) were 84% White, 62% female, and 54% gastroenterologists. In reflecting on patients/families' perceptions, participants endorsed most (86%) view ostomies as a “failure,” various psychosocial concerns (e.g., 97% endorsed body image concerns), and most (81%) have moderate to significant stigma about ostomies. In reflecting on their own perceptions, nearly half (44%) endorsed some to moderate stigma about ostomies and felt ostomy discussions were difficult when families had negative perceptions (88%). Over half (54%) endorsed currently having multidisciplinary care for pediatric IBD surgery. Most (70%) endorsed variability in the amount and/or quality of multidisciplinary collaboration.

Conclusion

MDM related to pediatric IBD ostomy surgery presents nuanced clinical complexities for HCPs. This work underscores interest in multidisciplinary care, notable ostomy‐related psychosocial needs, and ostomy‐related stigma. Future work should develop systematic approaches to multidisciplinary pediatric IBD ostomy care, bolster psychosocial support, and evaluate how systematic care may impact psychosocial, and healthcare utilization outcomes.
Sulfur: Long‐term outlook for a critical element for surfactant production
Authors: Grady Brian P.
Published: February 2024

Sulfur is a key element in most anionic surfactants. About 75% of sulfur currently is generated as a waste byproduct of petroleum refining, while most of the remainder is generated as a waste byproduct of natural gas refining. Assuming the world's fossil fuel use decreases in the future, what will happen with sulfur‐containing surfactants? Three possible alternatives are explored. First, alternate sources of sulfur could replace sulfur from fossil fuel. Second, surfactants that do not contain sulfur could replace those that contain sulfur. Third, other industries could replace sulfur in their products, while sulfur remains in surfactants. Each of these will be considered, and predictions will be made in terms of the likeliest outcomes.
Noninvasive Treatment of Venous Pulsatile Tinnitus with an Internal Jugular Vein Compression Collar
Authors: Succop Benjamin , Thompson Nicholas J. , Dedmon Matthew M. , Gelinne Aaron , Selleck Anne , Reed Samuel , Sindelar MAJ Brian D.
Published: February 2024

Objective

The study was conducted to evaluate the safety and efficacy of mild internal jugular (IJV) compression via an FDA approved compression collar for symptomatic treatment of venous pulsatile tinnitus.

Methods

This is a prospective study that recruited 20 adult patients with venous pulsatile tinnitus. Participants completed the Tinnitus Handicap Inventory (THI), were fitted with the collar, and rated symptom intensity on a 10‐point tinnitus intensity scale before and during collar use. Once weekly for 4 weeks, they answered a survey quantifying days used, average tinnitus intensity before and after wearing the collar each day of use, and any safety concerns. Lastly, they completed an exit interview. The primary outcome was symptomatic relief, with secondary outcomes of safety, effect of treatment setting, effect of time, and quality of life assessed via nonparametric testing.

Results

18 participants completed the study, and 276 paired daily before use/during use intensity scores were submitted. The median symptom intensity without the collar was 6 (IQR 4, 7), whereas with the collar it was 3 (IQR 2, 5), for a median symptomatic relief of 50%. The collar had a significant effect in reducing symptom intensity (p < 0.0001) and burden of illness via the THI (p < 0.0001). There was no effect of setting, frequency, or time on symptomatic relief with the collar. There were no adverse safety events reported aside from minor discomfort upon initial application.

Conclusions

Venous compression collars offer acute symptom relief for patients with venous pulsatile tinnitus. Further study is needed to assess safety and efficacy of longitudinal use.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 134:3342–3348, 2024
Plasma sphingolipids in patients with sickle cell disease: Multiple‐site vaso‐occlusive crises could be associated with lower sphingolipid levels
Authors: Alp Gokce , Oztas Yesim , Yalcinkaya Ahmet , Ozel Selinay , Yildirim Nazim , Unal Selma
Published: February 2024

Although sickle cell disease (SCD) and its manifestations have been associated with various lipid alterations, there are a few studies exploring the impact of sphingolipids in SCD. In this study, we determined plasma ceramide (Cer) and sphingomyelin (CerPCho) species and investigated their association with the crisis in SCD. SCD patients (N = 27) suffering from vaso‐occlusive crisis (VOC) or acute chest syndrome (ACS) were involved in this study. Blood samples were drawn at crisis and later at steady state periods. Clinical history, white blood cell count (WBC), C‐reactive protein and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels were recorded. 16:0, 18:0, 20:0, 22:0 Cer and 16:0, 18:0, 24:0 CerPCho were measured via LC–MS/MS. All measured Cer and CerPCho levels of SCD patients at crisis and steady‐state were found to be similar. Inflammation‐related parameters were significantly higher in patients with ACS compared to single‐site VOC. Patients with multiple‐site VOC were found to have significantly lower sphingolipid levels compared with those with single‐site VOC, at crisis (16, 18, 24 CerPCho and 18, 22 Cer) and at steady‐state (24:0 CerPCho and 18 Cer). Our results show that sphingolipid levels in SCD patients are similar during crisis and at steady state. However, lower sphingolipid levels appear to be associated with the development of multiple‐site VOC. Since the differences were observed at both crisis and steady‐state, sphingolipid level could be an underlying factor associated with crisis characteristics in patients with SCD.
Multifrequency and Multimode Topological Waveguides in a Stampfli‐Triangle Photonic Crystal with Large Valley Chern Numbers
Authors: Yan Bei , Peng Yiwei , Xie Jianlan , Peng Yuchen , Shi Aoqian , Li Hang , Gao Feng , Peng Peng , Jiang Jiapei , Liu Jianjun , Gao Fei , Wen Shuangchun
Published: February 2024

The multifrequency quantum valley Hall effect (QVHE) has been realized to significantly improve the transmission capacity of topological waveguides, and the multimode QVHE with a large valley Chern number has been realized to increase the mode density of topological waveguides. However, multifrequency and multimode QVHEs have not been realized simultaneously. In this work, using tight‐binding model calculations and numerical simulations, a valley photonic crystal (VPC) consisting of a Stampfli‐triangle photonic crystal is constructed, and its multiple degeneracies in the low‐frequency and high‐frequency bands split simultaneously to realize the QVHE with multiple topological edge states (TESs). The multifrequency and multimode topological transmission with two low‐frequency modes and four high‐frequency modes is realized by means of simulations and experiments through a Z‐shaped waveguide constructed using two VPCs with opposite valley Chern numbers to prove the realization of a large valley Chern number in the two frequency bands. The two low‐frequency modes are successfully distinguished with position‐dependent selective excitations, which experimentally demonstrate the occurrence of a large valley Chern number. A frequency‐dependent multimode beam splitter is theoretically proposed for high‐performance integrated photonic device applications. These results provide new ideas for high‐efficiency and high‐capacity optical transmission and communication devices and their integration; furthermore, they broaden the application range of TESs.
Impact of copycatting on the luxury manufacturer's distribution contracts in the e‐commerce era
Authors: Teng Yingying , Hou Pengwen , Xie Lei , Zhang Qian
Published: February 2024

Although many luxury manufacturers have cooperated with e‐commerce platforms in reality, few studies have focused on the distribution contract options (retail or agency contracts) of luxury manufacturers in the presence of copycats. This paper demonstrates the effectiveness of different distribution contracts to prevent the entry of copycats and provides decision support for luxury manufacturers' anti‐copycat strategy. In particular, the e‐commerce platform can reduce the commission rate slightly to make the agency contract more effective in deterring copycats from entering the market. Finally, we find some results about consumer surplus and social welfare.
Teaching, research, and third mission efficiency of universities: A data envelopment analysis and hybrid multi‐criteria decision‐making approach
Authors: Maral Muammer , Çetin Münevver
Published: February 2024

Previous studies on the efficiency of higher education institutions have generally approached the functions of higher education from a limited perspective, and the studies have followed traditional methods. The aim of this study is to determine the teaching, research, and third mission technical efficiency of universities, to rank efficient universities, to identify potential areas for improvement, and to examine the determinants of efficiency scores and the differences in scores in terms of various variables. In this study, the efficiency of 187 universities was measured by data envelopment analysis. Efficiency criteria were weighted by both objective and subjective multi‐criteria decision‐making (MCDM) methods and ranked by different MCDM methods. Beta and Linear regression were performed to determine the factors on efficiency scores. According to the results of the study, the most efficient universities are in the fields of research, teaching, and third mission, respectively. Budget criterion is the most important input criterion. Number of graduates, number of publications, and number of social responsibility projects are the most important output criteria. Having an older history positively predicts teaching and research efficiency. The size of universities and being located in developed regions negatively predict research and third mission efficiency. There is a positive relationship between rankings in teaching, research, and third mission. This research provides more comprehensive information to universities by considering teaching, research, and third mission efficiency separately. Second, this research proposes a new methodology for higher education efficiency measurement by integrating DEA and hybrid MCDM. Finally, this research provides new insights by analyzing factors related to teaching, research, and tertiary mission efficiency.
From Gut to Hormones: Unraveling the Role of Gut Microbiota in (Phyto)Estrogen Modulation in Health and Disease
Authors: Kumari Nikki , Kumari Rashmi , Dua Ankita , Singh Mona , Kumar Roushan , Singh Poonam , Duyar‐Ayerdi Susan , Pradeep Sunila , Ojesina Akinyemi I. , Kumar Roshan
Published: February 2024

The human gut microbiota regulates estrogen metabolism through the “estrobolome,” the collection of bacterial genes that encode enzymes like β‐glucuronidases and β‐glucosidases. These enzymes deconjugate and reactivate estrogen, influencing circulating levels. The estrobolome mediates the enterohepatic circulation and bioavailability of estrogen. Alterations in gut microbiota composition and estrobolome function have been associated with estrogen‐related diseases like breast cancer, enometrial cancer, and polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). This is likely due to dysregulated estrogen signaling partly contributed by the microbial impacts on estrogen metabolism. Dietary phytoestrogens also undergo bacterial metabolism into active metabolites like equol, which binds estrogen receptors and exhibits higher estrogenic potency than its precursor daidzein. However, the ability to produce equol varies across populations, depending on the presence of specific gut microbes. Characterizing the estrobolome and equol‐producing genes across populations can provide microbiome‐based biomarkers. Further research is needed to investigate specific components of the estrobolome, phytoestrogen‐microbiota interactions, and mechanisms linking dysbiosis to estrogen‐related pathology. However, current evidence suggests that the gut microbiota is an integral regulator of estrogen status with clinical relevance to women's health and hormonal disorders.
Comprehensive 7 T CEST: A clinical MRI protocol covering multiple exchange rate regimes
Authors: Fabian Moritz Simon , Rajput Junaid Rasool , Schüre Jan‐Rüdiger , Weinmüller Simon , Mennecke Angelika , Möhle Tim Alexius , Rampp Stefan , Schmidt Manuel , Dörfler Arnd , Zaiss Moritz
Published: February 2024

Chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST) is a magnetic resonance (MR) imaging method providing molecular image contrasts based on indirect detection of low concentrated solutes. Previous CEST studies focused predominantly on the imaging of single CEST exchange regimes (e.g., slow, intermediate or fast exchanging groups). In this work, we aim to establish a so‐called comprehensive CEST protocol for 7 T, covering the different exchange regimes by three saturation B1 amplitude regimes: low, intermediate and high. We used the results of previous publications and our own simulations in pulseq‐CEST to produce a 7 T CEST protocol that has sensitivity to these three B1 regimes. With postprocessing optimization (simultaneous mapping of water shift and B1, B0‐fitting, multiple interleaved mode saturation B1 correction, neural network employment (deepCEST) and analytical input feature reduction), we are able to shorten our initially 40 min protocol to 15 min and generate six CEST contrast maps simultaneously. With this protocol, we measured four healthy subjects and one patient with a brain tumor. We established a comprehensive CEST protocol for clinical 7 T MRI, covering three different B1 amplitude regimes. We were able to reduce the acquisition time significantly by more than 50%, while still maintaining decent image quality and contrast in healthy subjects and one patient with a tumor. Our protocol paves the way to perform comprehensive CEST studies in clinical scan times for hypothesis generation regarding molecular properties of certain pathologies, for example, ischemic stroke or high‐grade brain tumours.
Reassessing the Utility of Surgical Intervention for Skull Base Osteomyelitis: A 16‐Year Experience
Authors: Go Beatrice C. , Wong Kevin , Eliades Steven J. , Brant Jason A. , Bigelow Douglas C. , Ruckenstein Michael J. , Hwa Tiffany P.
Published: February 2024

Objective

The role of surgery in lateral skull base osteomyelitis (SBO) is controversial. Surgical intervention is often requested by consulting services in the interest of additional culture data to inform medical management. However, whether surgery alters subsequent antibiotic treatment or modifies disease outcome remains unknown. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of surgical intervention in the treatment of SBO by (1) comparing nonsurgical and surgical culture data and (2) assessing clinical outcomes and treatment course following surgical intervention.

Study Design

Retrospective.

Setting

Tertiary care center.

Methods

The electronic record was queried for all patients with SBO who presented to a single institution over a 16‐year period (2007‐2023). Information recorded included history and exam, bedside and intraoperative culture data, antibiotic course, and disease outcomes. Primary outcome measures included change in medical management based on intraoperative cultures, recurrence rates, and mortality rates.

Results

Forty patients (41 ears, average age 73 ± 13 years) met inclusion criteria. Out of 13 (32%) patients who underwent surgical intervention, one intraoperative culture changed the antibiotic course due to identification of resistance to the original antibiotic used. Surgery did not demonstrate a benefit in overall mortality (23% vs 18%, P = 0.36) or facial nerve function (33% vs 50%, P = 0.56) compared to medical management, and was associated with increased recurrence rates (54% vs 11%, P = 0.05).

Conclusion

Surgical cultures rarely changed antibiotic selection. Surgical debridement in treatment‐refractory SBO was also not associated with improvement in recurrence or mortality rates, though this may reflect underlying differences in disease severity.
Dielectric properties of PANI‐PEG nanocomposites filled with silica media for antistatic applications
Authors: Ahmed Eman H. , Ayoub Magdy M. H. , Ward Azza A.
Published: February 2024

The dielectric investigations of porous synthetic silica gel modified with polyaniline (PANI) and polyethylene glycol (PEG) polyblend at various concentrations are demonstrated in this paper. By using the chemical oxidative process to embed polyaniline (PANI) and polyethylene glycol (PEG) into a silica matrix, conducting gel nanocomposites were synthesized. For various dopant concentrations, the dielectric permittivity (ε′), D.C. conductivity (σdc), loss tangent (tanδ) and dielectric loss (ε″) were investigated. The samples were characterized using differential thermal analysis/thermogravimetric analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy. Depending on the co‐blend content, PANI‐PEG modified silica structures produce nanoparticles ranging in size from 9.9 to 48.1 nm. The variation of DC conductivity (σdc) with PANI/PEG content shows Maxwell‐Wagner Sillars (MWS) effect confirming the role of the conjugation and the structural order.
Early prenatal diagnosis of causative homozygous variants in ASCC1 in a fetus with cystic hygroma and additional homozygous variants of unknown significance associated with a neurological phenotype not visible in early gestation: Dual diagnosis or not?
Authors: Favier Maud , Delanne Julian , Gorincour Guillaume , Faivre Laurence , Racine Caroline , Philippe Christophe , Duffourd Yannis , Vitobello Antonio , Rousseau Thierry , Martz Olivia , Tarris Georges , Oualiken Camélia , Thauvin‐Robinet Christel , Mau‐Them Frédéric Tran
Published: February 2024

A consanguineous couple was referred at 10 weeks of gestation (WG) for prenatal genetic investigations due to isolated cystic hygroma. Prenatal trio exome sequencing identified causative homozygous truncating variants in ASCC1 previously implicated in spinal muscular atrophy with congenital bone fractures. Prenatal manifestations in ASCC1 can usually include hydramnios, fetal hypo‐/akinesia, arthrogryposis, contractures and limb deformities, hydrops fetalis and cystic hygroma. An additional truncating variant was identified in CSPP1 associated with Joubert syndrome. Presentations in CSPP1 include cerebellar and brainstem malformations with vermis hypoplasia and molar tooth sign, difficult to visualize in early gestation. A second pregnancy was marked by the recurrence of isolated increased nuchal translucency at 10 + 2 WG. Sanger prenatal diagnosis targeted on ASCC1 and CSPP1 variants showed the presence of the homozygous familial ASCC1 variant. In this case, prenatal exome sequencing analysis is subject to a partial ASCC1 phenotype and an undetectable CSPP1 phenotype at 10 weeks of gestation. As CSPP1 contribution is unclear or speculative to a potentially later in pregnancy or postnatal phenotype, it is mentioned as a variant of uncertain significance. The detection of pathogenic or likely pathogenic variants involved in severe disorders but without phenotype‐genotype correlation because the pregnancy is in the early stages or due to prenatally undetectable phenotypes, will encourage the clinical community to define future practices in molecular prenatal reporting.
Toward more reliable measurement procedures of perovskite‐silicon tandem solar cells: The role of transient device effects and measurement conditions
Authors: Messmer Christoph , Chojniak David , Bett Alexander J. , Reichmuth S. Kasimir , Hohl‐Ebinger Jochen , Bivour Martin , Hermle Martin , Schön Jonas , Schubert Martin C. , Glunz Stefan W.
Published: February 2024

Perovskite‐silicon (Pero‐Si) tandem solar cells have made remarkable progress in recent years, achieving certified cell efficiencies of up to 33.9%. However, accurately measuring the efficiency and current density‐voltage (JV) curves of these devices poses various challenges including the presence of mobile ions within the perovskite absorber that lead to short‐ and long‐term transient effects. Consequently, both the measurement setup and the preconditioning of the device significantly affect measurement results. This study focuses on enhancing the reliability and comparability of JV and other efficiency measurements for Pero‐Si tandem devices through a systematic analysis of the influence of mobile ions, preconditioning and measurement conditions. For the first time, a full opto‐electrical simulation model for Pero‐Si tandem devices is presented in Sentaurus TCAD, which includes the drift‐diffusion of anions and cations and is therefore able to describe short‐ and long‐term transient device effects in state‐of‐the‐art Pero‐Si tandem cells. Experimental validation and evidence are given by comparison to in‐house Pero‐Si tandem cells, as well as Pero‐Si mini modules from Oxford PV. We analyze by simulation and experiment how the cell preconditioning at different preconditioning voltages and times impacts the resulting measured tandem efficiency, as well as impact of JV scan times for the measured hysteresis in Pero‐Si tandem devices. Furthermore, we demonstrate the impact of current‐mismatching conditions on the measured hysteresis of the Pero‐Si tandem device and the need of correct spectral irradiance settings during measurements. We showcase that even a very slight variation in short‐circuit current density (jsc) around the current‐matching point leads to significantly different hysteresis behaviors. With aid of our simulation model, we could attribute this phenomenon to a reverse/forward biasing of the perovskite sub‐cell impacting the ion drift depending on the current‐limiting sub‐cell of the tandem device. Therefore, it is sensible to be aware of the current limiting sub‐cell for the comparison of the hysteresis susceptibility of different Pero‐Si tandem devices. This study strongly underscores the importance of including the preconditioning and measurement conditions when reporting Pero‐Si tandem efficiencies. The findings highlight the urgent need for standardization in the field.
Excitation and Tuning of Spin Waves in Magnonic Crystals by Magnetic Coupling
Authors: Shen Xiaochen , Bo Lan , Zhao Rongzhi , Bai Guohua , Hu Chenglong , Ji Lianze , Zhang Xuefeng , Dong Xinglong
Published: February 2024

Magnonic crystals with artificial micro/nanomagnetic pattern act as low‐loss information carriers in many microwave devices. The excitation and control of spin waves inside is essential and fundamental in magnonic crystal applications. Herein, permalloy micro‐disk patterns are constructed on a continuous permalloy film, and they succeed in exciting spin waves in this bilayer‐structured magnonic crystal. The spin‐wave modes can be effectively tuned by varying the periodic parameter (P) of upper‐layer disk pattern, which is confirmed by the transition from single‐peak to multi‐peak in ferromagnetic resonance (FMR) spectra with P decreased from 4 to 0.5 μm. The split in FMR spectra is reconstructed by micromagnetic simulation, revealing that three spin‐wave modes are respectively excited by the domain walls of below‐layer continuous film, geometrical restriction of permalloy micro‐disk, and magnetic coupling between neighboring permalloy micro‐disks. The tunable spin‐wave behavior in this bilayer‐structured magnonic crystal presents broad application prospect in programmable spintronic devices at micro/nanoscale.
Enhanced prediction of premonsoon thunderstorms over eastern India through assimilation of INSAT‐3D sounding data
Authors: Priya Kumari , Sasanka Talukdar , Osuri Krishna K.
Published: February 2024

The present study assesses the impact of Indian National Satellite 3D (INSAT‐3D)‐derived atmospheric (temperature and relative humidity) profiles on the simulation of severe thunderstorms over eastern India during the premonsoon season. Two sets of numerical experiments, without assimilation (CNTL) and with assimilation of INSAT‐3D profiles (INSAT) have been conducted using the three‐dimensional variational data assimilation system of the Weather Research and Forecasting model for 11 thunderstorm events. Analysis increments are positive with INSAT profile assimilation in the lower to middle atmosphere in the thunderstorm region. The errors in the initial fields have been reduced by approx. 50% after the assimilation. After assimilation, the predictions of the surface fields (2‐m temperature, 2‐m relative humidity, and 10‐m wind speed) have been improved at the mature stage (by 37%, 26%, and 15%) compared to the CNTL. Similar improvements are noticed in the vertical profiles of relative humidity and wind speed in the INSAT experiment. The time and magnitude of updrafts and downdrafts improved in INSAT. After assimilation, rainfall intensity improved in nine cases, and time improved in four cases out of 11. The Critical Success Index (False Alarm Rate) of the INSAT ranges from approx. 0.6–0.15 (∼0.37–0.48) for all thresholds, and are higher (lower) than the CNTL. The rainfall area is improved by 25% for light rainfall, 11% for moderate rainfall, and 2% for heavy rainfall in the INSAT over the CNTL experiment. Overall thunderstorm prediction has been improved with the assimilation of INSAT‐3D data. Thus, the study highlights the viability of INSAT‐3D profiles in improving thunderstorm predictions over eastern India.
Two‐Server Oblivious Transfer for Quantum Messages
Authors: Hayashi Masahito , Song Seunghoan
Published: February 2024

Oblivious transfer is considered as a cryptographic primitive task for quantum information processing over a quantum network. It is an essential building block for secure multiparty computation. It is known that one‐server oblivious transfer is impossible. When the task is the transmission of classical messages, protocols for two‐server oblivious transfer exist, i.e., existing protocols work under the assumption that two servers do not communicate with each other. However, when the task is the transmission of a quantum state, no existing method works even under the above two‐server assumption. Two‐server oblivious transfer protocols for quantum messages are proposed for the first time.
Suppression of Quantum Sensor Noise using Kalman Filter for Improved Sensitivity of Single‐Beam Atomic Magnetometers
Authors: Lei Gaoyi , Yuan Ziqi , Yue Ziqian , Xu Supeng , Zhai Yueyang
Published: February 2024

Single‐beam atomic magnetometers herald a new era of high‐precision magnetic field sensing, with applications spanning fundamental physics to biomagnetism. Nevertheless, their utility is often curtailed by quantum sensor noise, encompassing both technical and quantum‐mechanical noise. This research delves into the potential of the Kalman filter as a tool to subdue quantum sensor noise, thereby augmenting the sensitivity of single‐beam atomic magnetometers. Quantum‐mechanical noise is integrated into the system model as the process noise and measurement noise, and a discrete Kalman filter equipped with a time delay variable is employed. The findings reveal that the time delay variable significantly influences temporal signal tracing, while the discrete Kalman filter enhances sensitivity performance in frequency domain analysis, bypassing the typical sensitivity and time resolution trade‐off encountered in coherent sensing strategies. Partial‐knowledge signal scenarios are also taken into account, wherein a polynomial model is proposed to expansively render the discrete Kalman filter more relevant and adaptable to real‐world situations. Collectively, through experimentation involving sine‐like, non‐Gaussian, and medical magnetocardiography (MCG) signals, our results underscore the promising potential of the Kalman filter in enhancing the sensitivity of atomic magnetometers for practical sensing applications.
Dominant‐pole placement for predictor synthesis
Authors: Rojas‐Ricca Bryan , Castaños Fernando , Mondié Sabine
Published: February 2024

This article analyzes the high‐gain prediction approach for nonlinear input‐delay systems. The problem is discussed in the light of weighted homogeneity and input‐to‐state stability. The canonical form for uniformly observable nonlinear systems allows tuning the linear‐part spectrum by multiplicity‐induced dominancy and ensuring closed‐loop system input‐to‐state stability using the descriptor method of the Lyapunov–Krasovskii approach. Due to the trade‐off between delay and gain margin, the limitation of high gain that results for time‐delay systems is overcome using a cascade of subpredictors. A comparative analysis shows that our proposal achieves a better trade‐off between delay and gain margin, resulting in a reduced number of subpredictors.