bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On‐Demand Picoliter‐Level‐Droplet Inkjet Printing for Micro Fabrication and Functional Applications
Authors: You Kejia , Wang Zhen , Lin Jiasong , Guo Xuan , Lin Liangxu , Liu Yang , Li Fushan , Huang Wei
Published: August 2024

With the advent of Internet of Things (IoTs) and wearable devices, manufacturing requirements have shifted toward miniaturization, flexibility, environmentalization, and customization. Inkjet printing, as a non‐contact picoliter‐level droplet printing technology, can achieve material deposition at the microscopic level, helping to achieve high resolution and high precision patterned design. Meanwhile, inkjet printing has the advantages of simple process, high printing efficiency, mask‐free digital printing, and direct pattern deposition, and is gradually emerging as a promising technology to meet such new requirements. However, there is a long way to go in constructing functional materials and emerging devices due to the uncommercialized ink materials, complicated film‐forming process, and geometrically/functionally mismatched interface, limiting film quality and device applications. Herein, recent developments in working mechanisms, functional ink systems, droplet ejection and flight process, droplet drying process, as well as emerging multifunctional and intelligence applications including optics, electronics, sensors, and energy storage and conversion devices is reviewed. Finally, it is also highlight some of the critical challenges and research opportunities. The review is anticipated to provide a systematic comprehension and valuable insights for inkjet printing, thereby facilitating the advancement of their emerging applications.
High‐Performance Ideal Bandgap Sn‐Pb Mixed Perovskite Solar Cells Achieved by MXene Passivation
Authors: Cao Jiupeng , Liu Chun‐ki , Xu Yang , Loi Hok‐Leung , Wang Tianyue , Li Mitch Guijun , Liu Lixian , Yan Feng
Published: August 2024

Ideal bandgap (1.3–1.4 eV) Sn‐Pb mixed perovskite solar cells (PSC) hold the maximum theoretical efficiency given by the Shockley–Queisser limit. However, achieving high efficiency and stable Sn‐Pb mixed PSCs remains challenging. Here, piperazine‐1,4‐diium tetrafluoroborate (PDT) is introduced as spacer for bottom interface modification of ideal bandgap Sn‐Pb mixed perovskite. This spacer enhances the quality of the upper perovskite layer and forms better energy band alignment, leading to enhanced charge extraction at the hole transport layer (HTL)/perovskite interface. Then, 2D Ti3C2Tx MXene is incorporated for surface treatment of perovskite, resulting in reduced surface trap density and enhanced interfacial electron transfer. The combinations of double‐sided treatment afford the ideal bandgap PSC with a high efficiency of 20.45% along with improved environment stability. This work provides a feasible guideline to prepare high‐performance and stable ideal‐bandgap PSCs.
Ultrafast Quasi‐Solid‐State Microwave Construction of Spongy Cobalt–Molybdenum Phosphide for Hydrogen Production Over Wide pH Range
Authors: Luan Xueying , Guo Lingfei , Li Hongdong , Xiao Weiping , Xu Guangrui , Chen Dehong , Li Caixia , Du Yunmei , Wu Zexing , Wang Lei
Published: August 2024

The developed strategies for synthesizing metal phosphides are usually cumbersome and pollute the environment. In this work, an ultrafast (30 s) quasi‐solid‐state microwave approach is developed to construct cobalt–molybdenum phosphide decorated with Ru (Ru/CoxP‐MoP) featured porous morphology with interconnected channels. The specific nanostructure favors mass transport, such as electrolyte bubbles transfer and exposing rich active sites. Moreover, the coupling effects between metallic elements, especially the decorated Ru, also act as a pivotal role on enhancing the electrocatalytic performance. Benefiting from the effects of composition and specific nanostructure, the prepared Ru/CoxP‐MoP exhibits efficient HER performance with a current density of 10 mA cm−2 achieved in 1 m KOH, 0.5 m H2SO4, seawater containing 1 m KOH and 1 m PBS, with overpotentials of 52, 59, 55, 90 mV, and coupling with good stability. This work opens a novel and fast avenue to design metal‐phosphide‐based nanomaterials in energy‐conversion and storage fields.
Revealing the Thermodynamic Mechanism of Phase Transition Induced by Activation Polarization in Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Li Chengang , Zhang Quan , Wang Lin‐Wang , Zhang Shengli , Gao Guoping
Published: August 2024

Enhancing the phase transition reversibility of electrode materials is an effective strategy to alleviate capacity degradation in the cycling of lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs). However, a comprehensive understanding of phase transitions under microscopic electrode dynamics is still lacking. In this paper, the activation polarization is quantified as the potential difference between the applied potential (Uabs) and the zero‐charge potential (ZCP) of electrode materials. The polarization potential difference facilitates the phase transition by driving Li‐ion adsorption and supplying an electron‐rich environment. A novel thermodynamic phase diagram is constructed to characterize the phase transition of the example MoS2 under various Li‐ion concentrations and operating voltages using the grand canonic fixed‐potential method (FPM). At thermodynamic quasi‐equilibrium, the ZCP is close to the Uabs, and thus is used to form the discharge curve in the phase diagram. The voltage plateau is observed within the phase transition region in the simulation, which will disappear as the phase transition reversibility is impaired. The obtained discharge curve and phase transition concentration both closely match the experimental results. Overall, the study provides a theoretical understanding of how polarization affects phase evolution in electrode dynamics, which may provide a guideline to improve battery safety and cycle life.
Achieving 19.5% Efficiency via Modulating Electronic Properties of Peripheral Aryl‐Substituted Small‐Molecule Acceptors
Authors: Xu Tongle , Ran Guangliu , Luo Zhenghui , Chen Zhanxiang , Lv Jie , Zhang Guangye , Hu Hanlin , Zhang Wenkai , Yang Chuluo
Published: August 2024

The advancement of acceptors plays a pivotal role in determining photovoltaic performance. While previous efforts have focused on optimizing acceptor–donor–acceptor1–donor–acceptor (A–DA1–D–A)‐typed acceptors by adjusting side chains, end groups, and conjugated extension of the electron‐deficient central A1 unit, the systematic exploration of the impact of peripheral aryl substitutions, particularly with different electron groups, on the A1 unit and its influence on device performance is still lacking. In this study, three novel acceptors – QxTh, QxPh, and QxPy – with distinct substitutions on the quinoxaline (Qx) are designed and synthesized. Density functional theory (DFT) analyses reveal that QxPh, featuring a phenyl‐substituted Qx, exhibits the smallest molecular binding energies and a tightest π···π stacking distance. Consequently, the PM6:QxPh device demonstrates a better power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 17.1% compared to the blends incorporating QxTh (16.4%) and QxPy (15.7%). This enhancement is primarily attributed to suppressed charge recombination, improved charge extraction, and more favorable molecular stacking and morphology. Importantly, introducing QxPh as a guest acceptor into the PM6:BTP‐eC9 binary system yields an outstanding PCE of 19.5%, indicating the substantial potential of QxPh in advancing ternary device performance. The work provides deep insights into the expansion of high‐performance organic photovoltaic materials through peripheral aryl substitution strategy.
Carbonized Polymer Dot‐Tannic Acid Nanoglue: Tissue Reinforcement with Concurrent Fluorescent Tracking, Insulin Delivery, and Reactive Oxygen Species Regulation for Normal and Diabetic Wound Healing
Authors: Aggarwal Maansi , Sharda Deepinder , Srivastava Shruti , Kotnees Dinesh Kumar , Choudhury Diptiman , Das Prolay
Published: August 2024

Nanotizing biosealant components offer a multitude of chemical functionalities for superior adhesion–cohesion, delivering unique properties for comprehensive wound healing that are otherwise impossible to achieve using commercial variants. For the first time, a two‐step controlled hydrothermal pyrolysis is reported to nanotize dopamine, phloroglucinol, and glutaraldehyde into carbon dot (CD) to be subsequently converted into carbonized polymer dot (CPD) with gelatin as a co‐substrate. Chemical crosslinking of CD with gelatin through Schiff base formation before the second pyrolysis step ensures a complex yet porous polymeric network. The retention of chemical functionalities indigenous to CD substrates and gelatin along with the preservation of CD photoluminescence in CPD for optical tracking is achieved. A unique nanoformulation is created with the CPD through tannic acid (TA) grafting evolving CPD‐TA nanoglue demonstrating ≈1.32 MPa strength in lap shear tests conducted on porcine skin, surpassing traditional bioadhesives. CPD‐TA nanoglue uploaded insulin as chosen cargo disbursal at the wound site for healing normal and in vitro diabetic wound models using HEKa cells with extraordinary biocompatibility. Most importantly, CPD‐TA can generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) and scavenge simultaneously under ambient conditions (23 W white LED or dark) for on‐demand sterilization or aiding wound recovery through ROS scavenging.
Nitrogen‐Site Engineering in Covalent Organic Frameworks for H2O2 Photogeneration via Dual Channels of Indirect Two‐Electron O2 Reduction
Authors: Yang Xiubei , Pan Zi‐Xian , Yue Jie‐Yu , Li Xuewen , Liu Guojuan , Xu Qing , Zeng Gaofeng
Published: August 2024

Photocatalytic H2O2 production is a green and sustainable route, but far from meeting the increasing demands of industrialization due to the rapid recombination of the photogenerated charge carriers and the sluggish reaction kinetics. Effective strategies for precisely regulating the photogenerated carrier behavior and catalytic activity to construct high‐performance photocatalysts are urgently needed. Herein, a nitrogen‐site engineering strategy, implying elaborately tuning the species and densities of nitrogen atoms, is applied for H2O2 photogeneration performance regulation. Different nitrogen heterocycles, such as pyridine, pyrimidine, and triazine units, are polymerized with trithiophene units, and five covalent organic frameworks (COFs) with distinct nitrogen species and densities on the skeletons are obtained. Fascinatingly, they photocatalyzed H2O2 production via dominated two‐electron O2 reduction processes, including O2‐O2•‒‐H2O2 and O2‐O2•‒‐O21‐H2O2 dual pathways. Just in the air and pure water, the multicomponent TTA‐TF‐COF with the maximum nitrogen densities triazine nitrogen densities exhibited the highest H2O2 production rate of 3343 µmol g−1 h−1, higher than most of other reported COFs. The theoretical calculation revealed the higher activity is due to the easy formation of O2•‒ and O21 in different catalytic process. This study gives a new insight into designing photocatalysis at atomic level.
Enriching systems practice with African perspectives
Authors: Njenga Samuel Gikaru , Massyn Liezel
Published: August 2024

This paper follows an autoethnographic approach that seeks to give a practitioner's reflection by exploring the intersection between African philosophies, particularly the concepts of Ubuntu and Ukama, and the practice of systems thinking. It raises concern about the absence of an African perspective in the discourse on mainstream systems thinking approaches. It argues that African philosophies, with their emphasis on relationality, community and humanness, can contribute to and enrich the discourse on developing systems thinking approaches. The main author's positionality, including his struggles with his identity as an African, his personal experiences growing up in a rural African village and being exposed to traditional African storytelling and community‐based practices, is used to illustrate the connections between African philosophies and systems thinking. As an example of this linkage and how an African perspective can enrich the practice of systems thinking, the paper applies an African worldview to Critical Systems Heuristics.
Development and Validation of a Simple HPLC–UV‐Based Bioanalytical Method for Estimation of Acalabrutinib in Rat Plasma and Its Application in Evaluation of Drug‐Loaded Nanocrystal Formulation
Authors: Sinha Swagata , Ravi Punna Rao , Somvanshi Makarand , Sahadevan Rajesh Rashmi
Published: August 2024

A robust and reproducible HPLC–UV‐based bioanalytical method for acalabrutinib (ACP) was developed and validated in rat plasma using prednisone as internal standard. The samples were prepared by single‐step protein precipitation method using methanol with 1% v/v formic acid. A polar C18 stationary phase was used with a combination of 10 mM ammonium acetate (pH 3.5) and methanol (60:40 ratio), flow rate 1.1 mL/min, and 50 µL injection volume. ACP and internal standard were retained at ∼5.96 and 8.29 min, respectively. The method was validated according to the United States Food and Drug Administration and ICH M10 bioanalytical method validation guidelines. It was linear in the calibration range (0.08–5 µg/mL) with as 0.9989; accurate (% bias ≤ 0.50 ± 0.67), and precise (%RSD ≤ 0.986) for any quality control standard. Further, the method was applied in estimating ACP in rat plasma samples collected during in vivo pharmacokinetic study of the bulk drug as well as a nanocrystal (NC) suspension formulation. ACP‐NCs were formulated by bottom‐up solvent–antisolvent precipitation with mean particle size 266.32 ± 29.90 nm, 0.25 ± 0.05 PDI, with 92.7% ± 2.3% yield. The NC formulation improved both in vitro dissolution and in vivo absorption, supporting a further development of ACP‐loaded nanodrug delivery systems.
Research Advances of Cathode Materials for Rechargeable Aluminum Batteries
Authors: Gao Yanhong , Zhang Dan , Zhang Shengrui , Li Le
Published: August 2024

Rechargeable aluminum ion batteries (AIBs) have recently gained widespread research concern as energy storage technologies because of their advantages of being safe, economical, environmentally friendly, sustainable, and displaying high performance. Nevertheless, the intense Coulombic interactions between the Al3+ ions with high charge density and the lattice of the electrode body lead to poor cathode kinetics and limited cycle life in AIBs. This paper reviews the recent advances in the cathode design of AIBs to gain a comprehensive understanding of the opportunities and challenges presented by current AIBs. In addition, the advantages, limitations, and possible solutions of each cathode material are discussed. Finally, the future development prospect of the cathode materials is presented.
Wordling with Elementary Students: Developing Discrete Literacy Skills through Puzzles and Word Games
Authors: Lauterbach Mark , Zipke Marcy
Published: August 2024

Metalinguistic Awareness is the ability to consciously reflect on and manipulate language, from the level of the phoneme, to words, to whole phrases. Research has shown that engaging in metalinguistic activities can have a positive impact on reading. This article details some of the component skills of metalinguistic awareness (in this case, primarily phonology, morphology, and semantics) and explores how word puzzles can be employed as a means of authentic practice for elementary age students. The authors describe how to analyze games and puzzles for the component language skills practiced, and also how to get started implementing them in the classroom. Strategies are discussed in how to modify and use these games in support of an existing curriculum.
Is terbinafine an effective treatment for feline sporotrichosis?
Authors: Viana Paula Gonçalves , Gremião Isabella Dib Ferreira , da Silva Antonio Isabela Maria , Figueiredo Anna Barreto Fernandes , Correa Maria Lopes , Boechat Jéssica Sepulveda , de Sá Machado Ana Caroline , de Oliveira Raquel Vasconcelos Carvalhaes , Oliveira Manoel Marques Evangelista , Almeida‐Paes Rodrigo , Pereira‐Oliveira Gabriela Reis , Pereira Sandro Antonio
Published: August 2024

Background

Terbinafine has been successfully used in the treatment of human sporotrichosis; however, its effectiveness in the treatment of feline sporotrichosis is unknown. Therefore, this study aimed to describe the use of terbinafine in the treatment of feline sporotrichosis.

Methods

A cohort study was conducted in cats with sporotrichosis to assess the effectiveness and safety of terbinafine (30‒60 mg/kg/day). Clinical examination and analysis of laboratory parameters were performed monthly until clinical signs resolved or terbinafine treatment was discontinued.

Results

Of the 54 cats with sporotrichosis included in the study, 19 were lost during follow‐up and five were withdrawn from the study due to switching to treatment with another prescription drug. Of the remaining 30 cats, 10 achieved clinical cure, with a median treatment time of 18.5 weeks. Treatment failed in 18 cases, and two cats died. Twenty‐two cats had adverse reactions to terbinafine treatment, and 10 cats showed elevation of serum transaminases.

Limitation

Loss during follow‐up was high, which makes it difficult to draw accurate conclusions regarding clinical outcomes.

Conclusion

The low rate of clinical cure observed suggests that terbinafine does not represent an effective treatment option for cases of feline sporotrichosis.
Improving vet student wellbeing: EMS
Authors: Sears Pip
Published: August 2024

High levels of depression and burnout have been reported among veterinary students, with EMS, particularly the financial burden, being one of the biggest contributors to negative student wellbeing. Here Pip Sears discusses some of the issues and suggests improvements that could help reduce this burden.
Advances in brake friction materials: A comprehensive review of ingredients, processing methods, and performance characteristics
Authors: Raghunathan Vijay , Sathyamoorthy G. , Ayyappan Vinod , Srisuk Rapeeporn , Singaravelu D. Lenin , Rangappa Sanjay Mavinkere , Siengchin Suchart
Published: August 2024

The crucial significance of brake friction materials lies in ensuring automobile safety and performance. This drives the ongoing development of these materials to meet rigorous criteria. Recent developments in friction materials have improved the effectiveness of braking systems, resulting in increased safety and comfort. Modern society has increasingly adopted environmentally friendly friction materials, replacing conventional alternatives. The advancements in brake friction material development primarily focus on improving braking performance while simultaneously reducing environmental pollution caused by dangerous substances in brake pads. Understanding the different formulations of brake pads and the impact of the materials used is essential due to the complex and expert‐dependent nature of the brake pad manufacturing process. This review aims to fill knowledge gaps surrounding the basic formulations of brake pads and provide insights to researchers on the impact of different ingredients in creating friction brake pads. This research not only highlights the influence of various components on the friction and wear characteristics of brake pads but also addresses the importance of a comprehensive understanding of their fundamentals. The novelty of this review is justified by the lack of up‐to‐date, thorough reviews on brake friction materials, particularly in light of the recent advancements in the field. This review focuses on the developments and innovations in brake friction materials over the last 15 years. It aims to bridge the knowledge gaps regarding the basic formulations of brake pads and provide valuable insights into the influence of various components on their friction and wear characteristics. By addressing both the performance improvements and environmental considerations, this review offers a timely and essential resource for researchers and practitioners in the automotive industry.

Highlights

Exploration of various ingredients used in the brake friction composites.

Ingredients influence on the various characteristics of brake friction composites.

Different formulations and its usage in the brake friction composites.

Recycled materials usage in the friction composites‐waste to wealth approach.
Isolated gall bladder torsion in a juvenile greyhound dog
Authors: Bergmann Franziska , Westgren Frida , Elmén Annika , Lee Marcel
Published: August 2024

An 11‐month‐old, entire, male greyhound dog was presented with a 2‐day history of vomiting, lethargy and abdominal pain. An abdominal ultrasound and a computed tomography study were performed revealing images compatible with isolated gall bladder torsion. Surgery confirmed a twisted floating gall bladder, and a cholecystectomy was performed. The dog recovered without any complications. Gall bladder torsion is a rare but potentially life‐threatening condition in veterinary medicine, and a prompt diagnosis preoperatively is valuable. This is the first reported case of preoperative diagnosis of isolated gall bladder torsion by diagnostic imaging in veterinary medicine.
Chemical pneumonitis secondary to inhaled waterproofing shoe spray in a dog
Authors: Teitge Bailey , Marshall Kristen , Schildt Julie
Published: August 2024

A 3‐year‐old, female, spayed, mixed breed dog developed progressive dyspnoea after exposure to waterproofing shoe spray. The dog developed severe hypoxaemia and hypercapnia, and was subsequently diagnosed with veterinary acute respiratory distress syndrome secondary to chemical pneumonitis. Mechanical ventilation was initiated due to respiratory compromise. Severe hypercapnia persisted despite aggressive treatment. Unfortunately, the patient experienced cardiopulmonary arrest non‐responsive to cardiopulmonary resuscitation. A postmortem examination was performed, revealing pulmonary haemorrhage, hyaline membrane formation and necrosis. These findings are supportive of a diagnosis of chemical pneumonitis secondary to inhalation of waterproofing shoe spray, resulting in acute respiratory distress syndrome.
Association of county‐level provider density with hepatobiliary cancer incidence and mortality
Authors: Khan Muhammad Muntazir Mehdi , Munir Muhammad Musaab , Thammachack Razeen , Endo Yutaka , Altaf Abdullah , Woldesenbet Selamawit , Rashid Zayed , Khalil Mujtaba , Dillhoff Mary , Tsai Susan , Pawlik Timothy M.
Published: August 2024

Background

Access to healthcare providers is a key factor in reducing cancer incidence and mortality, underscoring the significance of provider density as a crucial metric of health quality. We sought to characterize the association of provider density on hepatobiliary cancer population‐level incidence and mortality.

Study Design

County‐level hepatobiliary cancer incidence and mortality data from 2016 to 2020 and provider data from 2016 to 2018 were obtained from the CDC and Area Health Resource File. Multivariable logistic regression was utilized to evaluate the relationship between provider density and hepatobiliary cancer incidence and mortality.

Results

Among 1359 counties, 851 (62.6%) and 508 (37.4%) counties were categorized as urban and rural, respectively. The median number of providers in any given county was 104 (IQR: 44–306), while provider density was 120.1 (IQR: 86.7–172.2) per 100,000 population; median household income was $51,928 (IQR: $45,050–$61,655). Low provider‐density counties were more likely to have a greater proportion of residents over 65 years of age (52.7% vs. 49.6%) who were uninsured (17.4% vs. 13.2%) versus higher provider‐density counties (p < 0.05). Moreover, all‐stage incidence, late‐stage incidence, and mortality rates were higher in counties with low provider density. On multivariable analysis, moderate, and high provider density were associated with lower odds of all‐stage incidence, late‐stage incidence, and mortality.

Conclusion

Higher county‐level provider density was associated with lower hepatobiliary cancer‐related incidence and mortality. Efforts to increase access to healthcare providers may improve healthcare equity as well as long‐term cancer outcomes.
Numerical solution for the interior electric displacement of the moving DBY‐PS model for semi‐permeable cracked piezoelectric material
Authors: Singh Vikram , Jangid Kamlesh
Published: August 2024

In this study, we analysed a moving crack at the interface of an infinitely long piezoelectric bilayer using the Dugdale–Barenblatt yield (DBY) model and the polarisation saturation (PS) model. To model the moving crack problem, a Yoffe‐type crack moves at a constant subsonic speed on the interface of an infinitely long piezoelectric bilayer. The crack faces are assumed to be semi‐permeable, and at the boundary of the bilayer, in‐plane electrical and out‐of‐plane mechanical stresses are applied. Due to the application of electro‐mechanical loads, cracks propagate, mechanical yielding zones and electric saturation zones are developed. To arrest the crack from further propagation, mechanical yield stress and saturation electric displacement are applied at the developed zones. To address this problem analytically and numerically, the mixed boundary value problem is transformed into a set of coupled Fredholm integral equations (FIEs) of the second kind using the Fourier transform and the Copson method. The closed‐form analytical expressions for the length of the electrical saturation zone (ESZ), whether longer, shorter or equal to the mechanical yielding zone (MYZ), show dependence on external electro‐mechanical loads under semi‐permeable crack conditions. The algorithm to solve the electric crack condition parameter (ECCP) has been defined using numerical discretization and the bisection method. Illustrative examples demonstrate the proposed technique's effectiveness and suitability for Yoffe‐type moving cracks. The numerical results show the convergence of the ECCP. Furthermore, the numerical results show how mechanical and electrical zone lengths and energy release rate (ERR) are affected by electrical and mechanical loads, strip thickness and crack velocity. In addition, the size of the mechanical yielding zone is consistently promoted by electrical load, while the promotion or prevention of the electrical saturation zone by mechanical load depends on the relative sizes of the nonlinear zones.
Revisiting Maximum Log-Likelihood Parameter Estimation for Two-Parameter Weibull Distributions: Theory and Applications
Authors: Kneib Thomas , Schlüter Jan-Christian , Wacker Benjamin
Published: August 2024

In this article, we reexamine properties of maximum log-likelihood parameter estimation for two-parameter Weibull distributions which have been applied in many different sciences. Finding reasons for this popularity is a key question. Our main contribution is a thorough existence and uniqueness proof for a global maximizer with respect to the parameter space. We first provide existence and uniqueness of local maximizers by Schauder’s first fixed point theorem, monotony arguments and local concavity of its Hessian matrix. Thus, we can prove our main result of existence and uniqueness of a global maximizer by considering all limiting cases with respect to the parameter space. We finally strengthen our theoretical findings on four data sets. On the one hand, two synthetic data sets underline our need for our data assumptions while, on the other hand, we choose two data sets from wind engineering and reliability engineering to demonstrate usefulness in real-world applications.
Classical and generalized solutions of an alarm-taxis model
Authors: Fuest Mario , Lankeit Johannes
Published: August 2024

In bounded, spatially two-dimensional domains, the system "Equation missing"complemented with initial and homogeneous Neumann boundary conditions, models the interaction between prey (with density u), predator (with density v) and superpredator (with density w), which preys on both other populations. Apart from random motion and prey-tactical behavior of the primary predator, the key aspect of this system is that the secondary predator reacts to alarm calls of the prey, issued by the latter whenever attacked by the primary predator. We first show in the pure alarm-taxis model, i.e. if $$\xi = 0$$

ξ
=
0

, that global classical solutions exist. For the full model (with $$\xi > 0$$

ξ
>
0

), the taxis terms and the presence of the term $$-a_2 uw$$

-

a
2

u
w

in the first equation apparently hinder certain bootstrap procedures, meaning that the available regularity information is rather limited. Nonetheless, we are able to obtain global generalized solutions. An important technical challenge is to guarantee strong convergence of (weighted) gradients of the first two solution components in order to conclude that approximate solutions converge to a generalized solution of the limit problem.
Social connection interventions and depression in young adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Alvarez Clotilde Vazquez , Mirza Luwaiza , Das-Munshi Jayati , Oswald Tassia Kate
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Early adulthood is a period which may increase vulnerability to loneliness and mental health difficulties among young adults. Social networks play an important role in buffering against adverse mental health, but there is a lack of evidence around whether social connection interventions could play a role in preventing mental health difficulties for young adults.

Methods

A systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted (PROSPERO ID: CRD42023395595). PubMed, PsycInfo, and Scopus were searched (01 January 2000–01 January 2023). Studies were eligible if they (i) were quantitative, (ii) included young adults (18–24 years) from the general population, (iii) tested a social intervention which aimed to increase the quantity or quality of social connections or reduce loneliness, (iv) had a comparison group, and (v) measured depression and loneliness/social connection as outcomes. Following study screening and selection, the data extraction and risk of bias assessments were independently conducted in duplicate. The Cochrane RoB-2 tool and ROBINS-I tool were used to assess risk of bias. Results were narratively synthesised and random effects meta-analysis with standardised mean differences was conducted.

Results

Six studies were included; four in-person interventions with higher education students, one online intervention with higher education students, and one intervention for youth involved in street life. The studies were mostly rated as having some or moderate concerns with risk of bias. The interventions were associated with an overall mean reduction in depression for young adults (SMD = -0.19; 95% CI, -0.33 to -0.05; p = 0.008; 4 studies, excluding studies with serious risk of bias). All interventions had beneficial effects on a range of diverse social connection outcomes, but there was no overall statistically significant mean reduction in loneliness for young adults in pooled analyses (SMD = -0.10; 95% CI, -0.24 to 0.05; p = 0.188; 3 studies).

Conclusion

Social connection interventions show some promise in improving depression and social connection outcomes in young adults but more high-quality research, across diverse settings, is needed in this area.
Drawing the full picture on diverging findings: adjusting the view on the perception of art created by artificial intelligence
Authors: Neef Nicolas E. , Zabel Sarah , Papoli Maria , Otto Siegmar
Published: August 2024

AI is becoming increasingly prevalent in creative fields that were thought to be exclusively human. Thus, it is non-surprising that a negative bias toward AI-generated artwork has been proclaimed. However, results are mixed. Studies that have presented AI-generated and human-created images simultaneously have detected a bias, but most studies in which participants saw either AI-generated or human-created images have not. Therefore, we propose that the bias arises foremost in a competitive situation between AI and humans. In a sample of N = 952 participants, we show that different evaluations emerge only when AI-generated and human-created pieces of art are presented simultaneously. Importantly, we demonstrate that AI art is not devalued, but rather, human art is upvalued, indicating the existence of a positive bias toward humans, rather than a negative bias. Further, we show that attitudes toward AI and empathy partially explain the different valuations of AI and human art in competitive situations.
Vertical margin distance in T1 colorectal carcinoma resected by endoscopic submucosal dissection affects prognosis after additional surgery
Authors: Tanino Fumiaki , Yamashita Ken , Nagata Shinji , Kuwai Toshio , Kamigaichi Yuki , Tanaka Hidenori , Tamaru Yuzuru , Takigawa Hidehiko , Asayama Naoki , Urabe Yuji , Shimamoto Fumio , Oka Shiro
Published: August 2024

Purpose 

A vertical margin (VM) distance of < 500 µm is a risk factor for recurrence in patients with T1 colorectal carcinoma (CRC) resected by endoscopy. We aimed to determine the effects of the VM distance on the recurrence and prognosis of T1 CRC.

Methods

We enrolled 168 patients with T1 CRC who underwent additional surgery after endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) at multiple centers between 2008 and 2016. None of the patients were followed up for < 5 years. The enrolled 168 patients were classified into patients with VM distance of < 500 µm including positive VM (n = 72 [43%], VM distance < 500 µm group) and patients with VM distance of ≥ 500 µm (n = 96 [57%], VM distance ≥ 500 µm group). The clinicopathological features, recurrence rates, and prognoses were compared between the groups using propensity-score matching (PSM).

Results

Tumors recurred in eight of the 168 patients (5%) with VM distance < 500 µm. After PSM, the rate of overall recurrence and local recurrence in the VM distance < 500 µm group were significantly higher than those in the VM distance ≥ 500 µm group. The 5-year recurrence-free survival rate was significantly higher in the VM distance ≥ 500 µm group than that in VM distance < 500 µm group after PSM (100% vs. 89%, p < 0.012).

Conclusions

Complete en bloc resection of T1 CRC via ESD must include a sufficient amount of SM to reduce the risk of metastasis and recurrence after additional surgery.
Hysteroscopy: where did we start, and where are we now? The compelling story of what many considered the “Cinderella” of gynecological endoscopy
Authors: Vitale Salvatore Giovanni , Giannini Andrea , Carugno Jose , van Herendael Bruno , Riemma Gaetano , Pacheco Luis Alonso , Drizi Amal , Mereu Liliana , Bettocchi Stefano , Angioni Stefano , Haimovich Sergio
Published: August 2024

Hysteroscopy has truly revolutionized the field of diagnostic and operative gynecology. It is presently regarded as the gold standard method for both the diagnosis and treatment of intrauterine diseases and it has fundamentally altered the way gynecologists treat patients with such conditions. These pathologies can now be diagnosed and treated in an outpatient setting, thanks to technological advancements and instrument downsizing. Two hundred years of development and notable innovation are now reflected in the present hysteroscopic practice. This review attempts to trace the boundaries-pushing history of hysteroscopy by highlighting the advancements in technology and the therapeutic and diagnostic benefits offered by this groundbreaking approach.
Magnetic resonance imaging evaluation of cochlear and vestibular nerve calibre: a case-control study in Ménière’s disease and endolymphatic hydrops
Authors: Khalifa Radwa , Touska Philip , Pai Irumee , Padormo Francesco , Goh Vicky , Hajnal Joseph V. , Connor Steve E. J.
Published: August 2024

Purpose

To compare the calibre of the cochlear (CN), superior vestibular (SVN) and inferior vestibular (IVN) nerves on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), both between Ménière’s Disease (MD) ears and clinical controls, and between inner ears with and without endolymphatic hydrops (EH) on MRI.

Methods

A retrospective case–control study evaluated patients undergoing MRI for suspected hydropic ear disease from 9/2017 to 8/2022. The CN, SVN, IVN and facial nerve (FN) diameters and cross-sectional areas (CSA) were measured on T2-weighted sequences whilst EH was evaluated on delayed post-gadolinium MRI. Absolute nerve calibre (and that relative to the FN) in unilateral definite MD ears (2015 Barany criteria) was compared to that in both asymptomatic contralateral ears and clinical control ears. Nerve calibre in ears with severe cochlear and vestibular EH was compared to ears without EH. t tests or Wilcoxon signed-rank test/Mann–Whitney U test were applied (p < 0.001).

Results

173 patients (mean age 51.3 ± 15.1, 65 men) with 84 MD (62 unilateral) and 62 clinical control ears were studied. Absolute and relative CN dimensions were decreased in both MD ears (CSA and diameter) and the contralateral asymptomatic ears (CSA) when compared to clinical controls (p < 0.001). Absolute nerve dimensions were reduced in both severe vestibular EH (CN, IVN and SVN) and severe cochlear EH (CN) (p < 0.001), however this was not evident when adjusted according to facial nerve calibre.

Conclusion

There is decreased absolute CN calibre in both symptomatic and asymptomatic MD ears as well as ears with severe cochlear and vestibular EH on MRI.
Post-mortem to ante-mortem facial image comparison for deceased migrant identification
Authors: Wilkinson Caroline , Pizzolato Martina , De Angelis Danilo , Mazzarelli Debora , D’Apuzzo Annalisa , Liu Jessica Ching , Poppa Pasquale , Cattaneo Cristina
Published: August 2024

The identification of deceased migrants is a global challenge that is exacerbated by migration distance, post-mortem conditions, access to ante-mortem data for comparison, inconsistent international procedures and lack of communication between arrival and origin countries. Due to low technology requirements, fast speed analysis and ease of transferring digital data, facial image comparison is particularly beneficial in those contexts, especially in challenging scenarios when this may be the only initial ante-mortem data available to identify the deceased. The Facial Identification Scientific Working Group (FISWG) professional guidelines for facial image comparison were developed for living facial appearance, and, therefore, a tailored protocol for the application of post-mortem to ante-mortem facial image comparison was proposed and evaluated in this research. The protocol was investigated via an inter-observer and an accuracy study, using 29 forensic cases (2001–2020) from the University of Milan, provided by the Laboratory of Forensic Anthropology and Odontology. In order to replicate a migrant identification scenario, each post-mortem subject was compared to all 29 ante-mortem targets (841 comparisons). The protocol guided the practitioner through stages of facial image comparison, from broad (phase 1) to more detailed (phase 3), eventually leading to a decision of ‘exclusion’ or ‘potential match’ for each post-mortem to ante-mortem case (phase 4). In phase 4, a support scale was also utilised to indicate the level of confidence in a potential match. Each post-mortem subject could be recorded with multiple potential matches. The protocol proved to be useful guide for facial image comparison, especially for less experienced practitioners and the inter-observer study suggested good reproducibility. The majority (82–96%) of ante-mortem subjects were excluded at the first stage of the protocol, and 71 full post-mortem to ante-mortem facial image comparisons were carried out. On average, two or three potential matches were recorded for each post-mortem subject. The overall accuracy rate was 85%, with the majority (79%) of ante-mortem non-targets correctly excluded from the identification process. An increased number and quality of available ante-mortem images produced more successful matches with higher levels of support. All potential matches involving non-targets received low levels of support, and for 73% of the post-mortem subjects, the ante-mortem target was the only recorded potential match. However, two ante-mortem targets were incorrectly excluded (one at the first stage of the protocol) and therefore changes to the protocol were implemented to mitigate these errors. A full protocol and a practical recording chart for practitioner use is included with this paper.
Specific clinical and radiological characteristics of anti-NMDA receptor autoimmune encephalitis following herpes encephalitis
Authors: Dumez Pauline , Villagrán-García Macarena , Bani-Sadr Alexandre , Benaiteau Marie , Peter Elise , Farina Antonio , Picard Géraldine , Rogemond Véronique , Ruitton-Allinieu Marie-Camille , Cotton François , Aubart Mélodie , Hully Marie , Antoine Jean-Christophe , Joubert Bastien , Honnorat Jérôme
Published: August 2024

Background

Herpes simplex virus encephalitis (HSE) frequently triggers secondary anti-N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor encephalitis (NMDARE), but markers predicting the occurrence of this entity (HSE-NMDARE) are lacking.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective description of patients with HSE-NMDARE diagnosed between July 2014 and August 2022 and compared them to both patients with regular forms of HSE and NMDARE.

Results

Among the 375 patients with NMDARE, 13 HSE-NMDARE were included. The median age was 19 years (0.5–73), 4/13 (31%) were children < 4 years old, and 7/13 (54%) were male. The median time between HSE and NMDARE onset was 30 days (21–46). During NMDARE, symptoms differed from HSE, including increased behavioral changes (92% vs 23%, p = 0.008), movements disorders (62% vs 0%, p = 0.013), and dysautonomia (54% vs 0%, p = 0.041). Compared to 21 patients with regular HSE, patients with HSE-NMDARE more often achieved severity-associated criteria on initial MRIs, with extensive lesions (11/11, 100% vs 10/21, 48%, p = 0.005) and bilateral diffusion-weighted imaging sequence abnormalities (9/10, 90% vs 6/21, 29%, p = 0.002). Compared to 198 patients with regular NMDARE, patients with HSE-NMDARE were more frequently males (7/13, 54% vs 43/198, 22%; p = 0.015) and children < 4 (4/13, 31% vs 14/198, 7%; p = 0.016), with a worse 12-month mRS (2[1–6] vs 1[0–6], p = 0.023).

Conclusions

Herein, patients with HSE-NMDARE have a poorer long-term prognosis than patients with regular NMDARE. We report a greater rate of severity-associated criteria on initial MRIs for HSE-NMDARE compared to regular HSE, which may help identify patients with higher risk of HSE-NMDARE.
Assessment of ventilatory functions and associated inflammatory markers among workers in slaughterhouses
Authors: Ramadan Mona Abdallah , Mohammed Rateba said , Safwat Saif Eldin Aisha
Published: August 2024

Objective

Meat processing is among the most extensive industries globally. However, data on the effects of occupational exposure on the pulmonary health of slaughterhouse workers is limited. Ascertaining the impact of the slaughterhouse atmosphere on the breathing habits of laborers exposed to it and the inflammatory markers associated with it was the aim of the current investigation.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was performed on 82 non-smoker subjects of 41 male workers working in one of the major slaughterhouses in Cairo, Egypt, matched to 41 controls of administrative personnel. An elaborate questionnaire encompassing medical and occupational history was administered to each participant in the research. General and local systemic examinations and ventilatory function tests were carried out, and serum levels of interleukin 6 (IL-6) and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) were measured.

Results

Respiratory symptoms were more prevalent with a statistically significant decline in ventilatory function parameters (FVC%, FEV1%, FEV1/FVC, FEF 25%, FEF 50%, FEF 75%, and PEF%) among the exposed group compared to those of control. In addition, there was a significantly higher serum level of inflammatory markers (IL-6 and hsCRP) among the exposed group compared to the control group, with a negative correlation with ventilatory functions. Moreover, there was a positive association between levels of serum IL-6 and hsCRP and the age and duration of employment of workers.

Conclusion

There was a notable increase in the prevalence of respiratory disorders and inflammatory markers among slaughterhouse workers. Additionally, there was a substantial decrease in ventilatory function parameters, which could be attributed to the bioaerosols they encountered in the workplace.
BK channels promote action potential repolarization in skeletal muscle but contribute little to myotonia
Authors: Dupont Chris , Blake Brianna , Voss Andrew A. , Rich Mark M.
Published: August 2024

Patients with myotonia congenita suffer from slowed relaxation of muscle (myotonia), due to hyperexcitability caused by loss-of-function mutations in the ClC-1 chloride channel. A recent study suggested that block of large-conductance voltage- and Ca2+- activated K+ channels (BK) may be effective as therapy. The mechanism underlying efficacy was suggested to be lessening of the depolarizing effect of build-up of K+ in t-tubules of muscle during repetitive firing. BK channels are widely expressed in the nervous system and have been shown to play a central role in regulation of excitability, but their contribution to muscle excitability has not been determined. We performed intracellular recordings as well as force measurements in both wild type and BK−/− mouse extensor digitorum longus muscles. Action potential width was increased in BK−/− muscle due to slowing of repolarization, consistent with the possibility K+ build-up in t-tubules is lessened by block of BK channels in myotonic muscle. However, there was no difference in the severity of myotonia triggered by block of muscle Cl− channels with 9-anthracenecarboxylic acid (9AC) in wild type and BK−/− muscle fibers. Further study revealed no difference in the interspike membrane potential during repetitive firing suggesting there was no reduction in K+ build-up in t-tubules of BK−/− muscle. Force recordings following block of muscle Cl− channels demonstrated little reduction in myotonia in BK−/− muscle. In contrast, the current standard of care, mexiletine, significantly reduced myotonia. Our data suggest BK channels regulate muscle excitability, but are not an attractive target for therapy of myotonia.
Basal knowledge in the field of pediatric nephrology and its enhancement following specific training of ChatGPT-4 “omni” and Gemini 1.5 Flash
Authors: Mondillo Gianluca , Frattolillo Vittoria , Colosimo Simone , Perrotta Alessandra , Di Sessa Anna , Guarino Stefano , Miraglia del Giudice Emanuele , Marzuillo Pierluigi
Published: August 2024

Background

We aimed to evaluate the baseline performance and improvement of ChatGPT-4 “omni” (ChatGPT-4o) and Gemini 1.5 Flash (Gemini 1.5) in answering multiple-choice questions related to pediatric nephrology after specific training.

Methods

Using questions from the “Educational Review” articles published by Pediatric Nephrology between January 2014 and April 2024, the models were tested both before and after specific training with Portable Data Format (PDF) and text (TXT) file formats of the Educational Review articles removing the last page containing the correct answers using a Python script. The number of correct answers was recorded.

Results

Before training, ChatGPT-4o correctly answered 75.2% of the 1395 questions, outperforming Gemini 1.5, which answered 64.9% correctly (p < 0.001). After training with PDF files, ChatGPT-4o’s accuracy increased to 77.8%, while Gemini 1.5 improved significantly to 84.7% (p < 0.001). Training with TXT files showed similar results, with ChatGPT-4o maintaining 77.8% accuracy and Gemini 1.5 further improving to 87.6% (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

The study highlights that while ChatGPT-4o has strong baseline performance, specific training does not significantly enhance its accuracy. Conversely, Gemini 1.5, despite its lower initial performance, shows substantial improvement with training, particularly with TXT files. These findings suggest Gemini 1.5’s superior ability to store and retrieve information, making it potentially more effective in clinical applications, albeit with a dependency on additional data for optimal performance.

Graphical Abstract