bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Arylazopyrazole as a photo-switch for controllable self-assembly of pillar[6]arene-based supramolecular amphiphiles
Authors: Yu Yishu , Qu Xiaotian , Li Junran , Huang Feihe , Yang Jie
Published: November 2023

An arylazopyrazole-based photo-responsive host–guest molecular recognition motif was established which can act as a good supplement to the widely used azobenzene-based ones and enrich the toolbox for the fabrication of smart supramolecular systems.
Synergistic modulation of electrical and thermal transport toward promising n-type MgOCuSbSe2 thermoelectric performance by MO-intercalated CuSbSe2
Authors: Ye Lingyun , Wei Liuming , Hao Yu , Ge Mengyan , Shi Xiaobo , Zhang Hanxing
Published: November 2023

MO-intercalated CuSbSe2, distinct from CuSbSe2, exhibits low-symmetry monoclinic structures. This structural characteristic improves electrical properties, reduces thermal conductivity, thereby enhancing overall thermoelectric efficiency.
Non-trivial ground and excited state photophysics of a substituted phenol
Authors: Shukla Aparna , Jha Vikas Kumar , Chatterjee Soumit
Published: November 2023

5-(tert-Butyl)-2-hydroxy-1,3-isophthalaldehyde (5-tBHI) shows solvent dependent single or dual emission.
Evolution of the structure of MSnO3 (M = Ba, Sr) perovskites during hydrothermal synthesis and their photocatalytic activity
Authors: Bikyashev Envyar A. , Kubrin Stanislav P. , Popov Artem V. , Nazarenko Alexandr V. , Ter-Oganessian Nikita V. , Raevski Igor P.
Published: November 2023

The synthesis and photocatalytic activity of barium and strontium stannates in the process of decomposition of hydrothermally obtained precursors has been investigated.
Enhanced performance of BiI3-incorporated CsPbBr3 solar cells
Authors: He Yuqi , Li Zhenyang , Liu Manying , Liu Saiqi , Fu Junjie , Zhang Yange , Li Qiuye , Tong Yuping , Zheng Zhi
Published: November 2023

The efficiency of the solar cell device, when using BiI3-doped CsPbBr3 as the light absorption layer, increased to 9.54%, showing a significant improvement of 19.4% compared to the undoped device.
Modified Cu–Zn–Al mixed oxide dual function materials enable reactive carbon capture to methanol
Authors: Jeong-Potter Chae , Arellano-Treviño Martha A. , McNeary W. Wilson , Hill Alexander J. , Ruddy Daniel A. , To Anh T.
Published: November 2023

A novel RCC process using modified CZA DFMs to produce renewable MeOH is presented. K/CZA provides exceptionally high productivity of MeOH compared to previously reported attempts of RCC to MeOH.
Blackberry consumption protects against e-cigarette-induced vascular oxidative stress in mice
Authors: Meister Maureen L. , Feresin Rafaela G.
Published: November 2023

E-cigarettes provoke vascular oxidative stress through upregulation of pro-oxidant enzymes. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) produced by these enzymes, reduce nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability. Blackberry mitigates ROS and increases NO production, improving NO bioavailability and vascular health.
Scalable co-cured polyimide/poly(p-phenylene benzobisoxazole) all-organic composites enabling improved energy storage density, low leakage current and long-term cycling stability
Authors: Zuo Peiyuan , Li Jinpeng , Chen Donglin , Nie Lingzhi , Gao Liang , Lin Jingyu , Zhuang Qixin
Published: November 2023

The all-organic high-temperature polymer dielectrics with promising scale-up potential have witnessed much progress in the energy storage area, etc.
Compartmentalized drug localization studies in extracellular vesicles for anticancer therapy
Authors: Pitchaimani Arunkumar , Ferreira Miguel , Palange Annalisa , Pannuzzo Martina , De Mei Claudia , Spano Raffaele , Marotta Roberto , Pelacho Beatriz , Prosper Felipe , Decuzzi Paolo
Published: November 2023

Drug compartmentalization in extracellular vesicles for anticancer therapy.
Two-gap topological superconductor LaB2 with high Tc = 30 K
Authors: Chen Chin-Hsuan , Lan Ye-Shun , Huang Angus , Jeng Horng-Tay
Published: November 2023

A three-band (B-σ, B-π, and La-d) two-gap superconductor LaB2 with very high Tc = 30 K is reported.
Vacuum-assisted thermal evaporation deposition for the preparation of AgNPs/NF 3D SERS substrates and their applications
Authors: Zhou Ziyu , Xie Atian , Tan Yuanhang , Zhang Junfeng , Xue Changguo
Published: November 2023

Herein, a 3D SERS substrate based on nickel foam (NF) and silver nanoparticles (AgNPs/NF 3D SERS) was synthesized using vacuum-assisted thermal evaporation deposition.
MXenes vs. clays: emerging and traditional 2D layered nanoarchitectonics
Authors: Ruiz-Hitzky Eduardo , Ruiz-Garcia Cristina
Published: November 2023

Clays and MXenes: comparison and analogies of the preparation, properties and applications of nanoarchitectures based on them.
Large two-photon cross sections and low-threshold multiphoton lasing of CdS/CdSe/CdS quantum shells
Authors: Diroll Benjamin T. , Cassidy James P. , Harankahage Dulanjan , Hua Muchuan , Lin Xiao-Min , Zamkov Mikhail
Published: November 2023

Quantum shells combine large two-photon cross-sections, long biexciton lifetimes, wide gain bandwidth, to produce stable, multimodal upconverted lasers.
Cesium-doped ammonium vanadium bronze nanosheets as high capacity aqueous zinc-ion battery cathodes with long cycle life and superb rate capability
Authors: Lei Xinyu , Du Hao , Li Haiyang , Zhang Meng , Zhang Hanlu , Jin Yiliang , Zhang Jiarui
Published: November 2023

High specific capacity Cs+ doped CNVO at 475.6 mA h g−1.
Flow synthesis of conjugated polymers: exploring the effects of solvent and catalyst on molecular weight
Authors: Jeon Jin Woo , Hwang Ye-Jin
Published: November 2023

The high reproducibility of the flow synthesis system enabled accurate investigation of the relationship between reaction conditions and molecular weight in Stille polycondensation of conjugated polymers.
Mukaiyama aldol reaction: an effective asymmetric approach to access chiral natural products and their derivatives/analogues
Authors: Mushtaq Aqsa , Zahoor Ameer Fawad
Published: November 2023

Mukaiyama aldol reaction results in the highly enantioselective and diastereoselective synthesis of β-hydroxy carbonyls. Here, total syntheses of some natural products via this reaction as a key step have been presented.
Enhanced EDC removal from water through electron beam-mediated adsorber particle integration in microfiltration membranes
Authors: Niavarani Zahra , Breite Daniel , Ulutaş Berfu , Prager Andrea , Ömer Kantoğlu  , Abel Bernd , Gläser Roger , Schulze Agnes
Published: November 2023

Through the synthesis of composite microfiltration membranes incorporated with adsorber divinyl benzene particles, a potent solution emerged for the efficient removal of various endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) from water.
Recent developments for intermolecular enantioselective amination of non-acidic C(sp3)–H bonds
Authors: Li Heng-Hui , Chen Xuemeng , Kramer Søren
Published: November 2023

Recently, the field of intermolecular enantioselective amination of non-acidic C(sp3)–H bonds has witnessed rapid advances, which are discussed in this perspective
Testing the Informativeness of Diverse Measures of Auditory Processing for Clinical Audiological Practice in Middle-Aged Adults in Mexico
Authors: Lelo de Larrea-Mancera E. Sebastian , Solís-Vivanco Rodolfo , Sánchez-Jiménez Yolanda , Padilla-Bustos Katia , Correa-Medina Erick I. , Clamage David S. , Bologna William J. , Gallun Frederick J. , Seitz Aaron R.
Published: November 2023

Purpose:

Standard clinical audiologic assessment is limited in its ability to capture variance in self-reported hearing difficulty. Additionally, the costs associated with clinical testing in audiology create financial barriers for hearing health care in developing countries like Mexico. This study used an open-source Spanish-language tool called PART (Portable Automated Rapid Testing) to test the hypothesis that a battery of assessments of auditory processing can complement standard clinical audiological assessment to better capture the variance of self-reported hearing difficulty.

Method:

Forty-three adults between 40 and 69 years of age were tested in Mexico City using a traditional clinical pure-tone audiogram, cognitive screening, and a battery of PART-based auditory processing assessments including a speech-on-speech competition spatial release from masking task. Results were compared to self-reported hearing difficulty, assessed with a Spanish-language adaptation of the Hearing Handicap Inventory for the Elderly–Screening Version (HHIE-S).

Results:

Several measures from the PART battery exhibited stronger correlations with self-reported hearing difficulties than the pure-tone audiogram. The spatial release from masking task best captured variance in HHIE-S scores and remained significant after controlling for the effects of age, audibility, and cognitive score.

Conclusions:

The spatial release from masking task can complement traditional clinical measures to better account for patient's self-reported hearing difficulty. Open-source access to this test in PART supports its implementation for Spanish speakers in clinical settings around the world at low cost.

Supplemental Material:

https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.24470140
Effects of drying and Eurotium Cristatum fermentation on the content and α-glucosidase inhibitory activity of flavonoid in mulberry leaves
Authors: Xie Chaoran
Published: November 2023

Developing new α-glucosidase inhibitors from mulberry leaves (ML) for the treatment of type II diabetes has significant advantages. Although content and activity of active substances is relatively higher in fresh ML (FML), it is not conducive to long-term storage and transportation. This article investigated the effects of drying and E. cristatum fermentation on the content and activity of flavonoids in mulberry leaves (MLF). The results indicated that hot-air drying (HD) was more beneficial for ML drying than natural air drying (AD). The flavonoid content in ML that dried at 60°C for 140 min (ML-HD60) was 36.98±2.8 mg/g dried ML just slightly lower than that in FML (39.29 ± 2.17 mg/g dried ML). Then different MLs were used as the substrate of E. cristatum YY-1, which indicated that the content and α-glucosidase inhibition rate of flavonoids extracted from the fermented ML-HD60 (MLF-HD60F) were increased obviously. The MLF-HD60F content was increased to 39.35±2.47 mg/g dried ML, which was comparable to that in unfermented FML. Meanwhile, fermentation by E. cristatum YY-1 would decrease the IC50 value of MLFs against α-glucosidase. And MLF-HD60F had the lowest IC50 value of 9.1 mg/L, which was 11.5 mg/L for FMLF-F. In conclusion, dried ML at 60°C for 140 min could maximize the content of flavonoids and their inhibition activity on α-glucosidase.
Herpetofauna surveys at CFS ecological corridor (J-PL2: Panti Forest Reserve-Ulu Sedili Forest Reserve), Johor, Malaysia
Authors: Md Fauzi Noor Faradiana , Azman Mohammad Shahfiz , Ruzman Nor Hazwani Ahmad , Baharudin Muhammad Syaridzwan , Appanan Manoshini , Azahar Muhammad Asyraff , Beri Anis Zafirah Zam , Sukiman Mohamad Farhan
Published: November 2023

Herpetological surveys were conducted at Panti Forest Reserve and Ulu Sedili Forest Reserve of Johor in March and April 2019. These forest reserves are identified as one of the designated primary linkages under the Central Forest Spine (CFS) Masterplan, named as J-PL2 or previously known as CFSII PL3. The objective of the study is to document updated list of herpetofauna species recorded at the J-PL2. During this study, onehectare study plot was established at Panti Forest Reserve and Ulu Sedili Forest Reserve, respectively. Each study plot was equipped with 10 transect lines. A total of 25 pitfall traps were deployed at each study plot. These traps were set for five consecutive nights per session, with a total of two sampling sessions per site. In addition, active search was also conducted for a minimum of two hours at each site during every sampling session. As a result, a total of 30 individuals comprising of 13 species of herpetofauna were recorded at J-PL2. Panti Forest Reserve harbour highest number of herpetofauna with nine species (five families) followed by Ulu Sedili Forest Reserve with six species (five families). Amphibians was the most species captured in Panti Forest Reserve with six species, whilst the number of species recorded for both amphibians and reptiles at Ulu Sedili was similar with three species. Furthermore, five species of the herpetofauna representing by one amphibian and four reptiles are new additional recorded herpetofauna species when compared to a compilation of previously listed species at both forest reserves. Pelobatrachus nasutus, Draco haematopogon and Naja sumatrana are among the latest species recorded through this study. Referring to this information, hopefully the significance of J-PL2 as an important shelter for various herpetofauna species could be reflected and proper conservation actions must be undertaken to protect and sustain their population.
Visitors’ Awareness and Willingness-to-Pay towards Coastal Sustainability in Cherating, Pahang
Authors: Nik Ab Rahim Nik Nor Rahimah , Azaharuddin Azmir Nurhakim
Published: November 2023

Coastal severe erosion has been detected on the beaches of Cherating, causing disruption to the coastal ecosystem and diminishing the aesthetic appeal that attracts visitors. To prevent further harm to the coast, it is necessary to enhance sustainable coastal management practices. However, the implementation of such measures can be expensive. To ensure the success of improved sustainable coastal management, it is important to secure public funding, possibly through one-time donations, to cover the capital costs of the improvement project. Therefore, obtaining the acceptance of visitors regarding the enhanced sustainable coastal management in Cherating Beach is crucial. This study aimed to assess visitor acceptance based on three objectives: (i) determining the visitors’ level of awareness regarding the issue of coastal erosion at Cherating Beach, (ii) estimating the extent of visitors’ willingness-to-pay towards the improvement of sustainable coastal management in Cherating Beach, and (iii) identifying the key factors influencing visitors’ willingness-to-pay towards the improvement of sustainable coastal management in Cherating Beach. A sample of 385 visitors in Cherating was surveyed using an open-ended contingent valuation method questionnaire using convenience sampling. The analysis included descriptive analysis, estimation of visitors’ willingness-to-pay and binary logistic regression. The main findings revealed that the majority of visitors had a high level of awareness regarding coastal erosion in Cherating Beach. In terms of willingness-to-pay, visitors indicated a willingness-to-pay RM 13.15 per person as a one-time donation for implementing sustainable coastal management. The findings also demonstrated that visitors with higher education levels were more likely to donate towards improving sustainable coastal management. Overall, the visitors’ feedback was positive, suggesting that providing this acceptance information to the Kuantan City Council and the Department of Irrigation and Drainage, Pahang, could be beneficial in implementing strategies for sustainable coastal management in Cherating Beach.
Income Heterogeneity and the Pollution Haven and Halo Hypotheses: Empirical Evidence from Developing Countries
Authors: Abdulwakil Muhammad Mansur , Abdul-Rahim Abdul Samad , Sulaiman Chindo , Alsaleh Mohd , Raji Abdulmalik Ajibola , Datti Muhammad Ibrahim
Published: November 2023

Foreign direct investment (FDI) is commonly perceived as a catalyst for fostering economic growth in recipient nations. Nevertheless, new research findings indicate that multinational corporations may employ a specific approach to exporting pollution from nations with rigorous environmental regulations to emerging countries with less stringent legislation. This research investigates the influence of FDI on the environmental conditions of 80 developing nations from 2000 to 2019. The study employs the Least Squares Dummy Variable Corrected (LSDVC) methodology to analyse the data. The findings suggest that there exists a direct correlation between the influx of FDI and the occurrence of environmental contamination within developing nations. Nevertheless, it has been shown that there exists a noteworthy positive correlation between FDI and environmental deterioration, specifically in the case of nations classified as upper-middle-income nations. Furthermore, the findings substantiate a noteworthy correlation between the deterioration of the environment and the expansion of the economy, FDI, energy consumption, and population density. The findings of this study provide empirical support for the presence of both the Pollution Haven Hypothesis (PHH) and the Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) in middle-income nations. Additionally, this study offers recommendations aimed at assisting developing countries in their efforts to address environmental degradation.
Geology and Geoheritage Assessment of Lata Keding, Jeli, Kelantan, Malaysia
Authors: Sulaiman Nursufiah , Wan Ahmad Khalil Wan Ahmad Aqil Fahmi , Safai Azri Sulaimi , Yazizul Rahman Siti Nur Adilah , Sulaiman Noorzamzarina
Published: November 2023

Lata Keding boasts numerous unique geological features encompassing diverse geological structures. The area is in the Jeli District of Kelantan and straddles the border of Kelantan and Perak. The topography ranges from a height of 480 meters to a low of 40 meters. This research was focused on the geoheritage value of Lata Keding and explored its potential for geotourism. The study area comprises five distinct rock units: hornfels, gneiss, schist, meta-alkali feldspar granite, and meta quartz-rich granitoid. Lata Keding's geoheritage value assessment revealed high aesthetic and recreational significance based on the qualitative and quantitative evaluation. The primary attraction of that area is its beautiful cascades and unique rock structures. Activities such as swimming, picnicking, and photography have gained popularity among visitors. Thus, it is important to protect and preserve Lata Keding to maintain its natural integrity, particularly in the face of potential rapid development.
Elucidating on Time and Temperature Effects on Torrified Moldy Bread
Authors: Ahmad Muhammad Iqbal , Zuhairi Ain Zulaikha , Mohd Amin Mohamad Faiz , Mat Rasat Mohd Sukhairi , Mahmood Mohd Mahadzir
Published: November 2023

Waste-to-energy is the preferred solution, according to the waste management hierarchy considering landfill waste disposal may not be the most effective method of waste usage. Torrefaction of kitchen waste to produce higher-quality solid fuels is an effective option with lower temperature requirements than pyrolysis and gasification. By addressing the problems, the fuel quality in terms of high heating value can be investigated. Also, the torrefaction parameters, temperature and time, can be examined on the fuel performance. The moldy bread undergoes torrefaction by torrefying it in the furnace with temperatures of 200, 250 and 300°C, respectively, with 15, 30, 45 and 60 mins of processing times. With increased torrefaction temperature, the mass dropped while the higher heating value (HHV) increased. The rise in carbon content also enhanced the torrefied moldy bread's fuel properties. Also, this is because the primary components of the moldy bread, particularly hemicellulose, have significantly decomposed. Therefore, processed temperature of 300°C at elevation time of 45 min produced tremendous gain than other parameters observed.
Preliminary assessment on climatological conditions in Royal Belum-Temenggor Rainforest Complex, Malaysia using MERRA-2 reanalysis datasets
Authors: Leong Marieanne Christie , A/P James Priya Tharshini , Muhammad Marinah
Published: November 2023

Royal Belum-Temenggor Rainforest Complex (RBTRC) is renowned as one of the world’s oldest tropical rainforests and biodiversity hotspots. Its extensive forest coverage serves as a crucial carbon sink that stock more than 185 Mg ha-1 carbon, thereby playing a crucial role in regulating Earth’s temperature. Despite its significance as a major carbon sink and biodiversity ecosystem, studies on RBTRC have been limited primarily to biological and ecological studies. Baseline climate studies for this region are non-existent to-date. Baseline climate assessment is crucial for assessments of future climate change impact in this region. This study fills this critical research gap by investigating the climatological trends of annual-averaged temperature, surface pressure, specific humidity, wind speed and rainfall in RBTRC from 1991 to 2020 using the Modern-Era Retrospective Analysis for Research and Applications, version 2 (MERRA-2) reanalysis dataset. All atmospheric variables exhibit a normal distribution, and increasing trends are observed for all variables except for windspeed. Pearson’s correlations indicate positive correlation between pressure and temperature (0.5), specific humidity and rainfall (0.45), and negative correlation in pressure and rainfall (-0.59), specific humidity and windspeed (-0.55), and temperature and windspeed (-0.42). This complements the fundamental physical laws, indicating the reliability of the MERRA-2 reanalysis datasets for further climatological evaluation.
A Novel Radiological Classification System of the Proximal Humerus
Authors: Sangaletti Rudy , Abuljadail Salahulddin , Akkaya Mustafa , Zanna Luigi , Gehrke Thorsten , Citak Mustafa
Published: November 2023

Different anatomical variants have been reported for the proximal and distal femur. Given this context, the goal of our study was to answer the following question: Can we also identify different anatomical variants of the proximal humerus?

Two hundred anteroposterior (AP) radiographs of the proximal humerus with an equal gender distribution and equal laterality per gender were reviewed. The metaphyseal diameter of the proximal humerus at the level of the anatomical neck (X) and the intramedullary diameter at 10 cm from the apex of the greater tuberosity (Y) were measured. A new ratio was established, based on both measurements (Y/X). Radiographs showed different anatomical variants: type A: Y/X < 0.3, type B: Y/X = 0.3–0.4, type C: Y/X > 0.4. Two observers reviewed the AP radiographs independently and blindly in 2 different sessions.

Three different anatomical groups (A, B and C) were identified based on the 25th and 75th percentiles. A higher percentage of type C was observed among females and a higher percentage of type A among males. A high inter-observer reliability was noted, with a Cronbach’s alpha of 0.97 (ICC 0.96–0.98). The intra-observer reliability for observer 1 had a Cronbach’s alpha of 0.98.

A novel radiological classification of the proximal humerus has been established based on 3 different anatomical types (A, B and C). Further studies are needed to establish whether the novel classification system can be used as an indicator for aseptic loosening of cemented or cementless total shoulder arthroplasty.
Synergism Between Essential Oils and Evaluation of Their Activities with a Focus on Malassezia furfur Control
Authors: Cassola Fábio , Ramírez Nedy , Ribeiro Guilherme , da Silva Lucas Henrique Domingos , Gambero Alessandra , de Oliveira Adriana da Silva Santos , Vieira Pedro Manoel Mendes de Moraes , Nogueira Flávia Aparecida Resende , Duarte Marta Cristina Teixeira
Published: November 2023

Seborrheic dermatitis is a chronic inflammatory disease caused by Malassezia yeast species that affects the regions of the body where the sebaceous glands are present. The combined
use of different essential oils (EOs) can increase their spectrum of action. Thus, the present study aimed to evaluate the action of EOs alone and in combination with each other on
M. furfur, in planktonic and biofilm form, and their anti-inflammatory and mutagenic potential, in addition to the effects on the viability of cells lines. Of the 40 evaluated EOs, 22
showed activity against M. furfur at 0.5 – 2.0 mg/mL concentrations. Among the most active species, a blend of essential oils (BEOs) composed of Cymbopogon martini (Roxb.)
Will. Watson (MIC = 0.5 mg/mL) and Mentha × piperita L. (MIC = 1.0 mg/mL) was selected, which showed a synergistic effect against yeast when evaluated through the checkerboard
assay. The fungicidal activity was maintained by the addition of anti-inflammatory oil from Varronia curassavica Jacq. to BEOs. The BEOs also showed activity in the inhibition of
biofilm formation and in the eradication of the biofilm formed by M. furfur, being superior to the action of fluconazole. Furthermore, it did not show mutagenic potential and did not
interfere with the cell viability of both evaluated cell lines (HaCaT and BMDMs). TNF-α levels were reduced only by C. martini; however, this property was maintained when
evaluating BEOs. BEOs had no effect on IL-8 levels. Thus, the BEOs may be indicated for alternative treatments against seborrheic dermatitis.
Role of Permeability Surface Area Product in Grading of Brain Gliomas using CT Perfusion
Authors: Agrawal Ira , Bano Shahina , Chaudhary Ajay , Ahuja Arvind
Published: November 2023

Purpose The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of permeability surface area product in grading brain gliomas using computed tomography (CT) perfusion

Materials and Methods CT perfusion was performed on 33 patients with brain glioma diagnosed on magnetic resonance imaging. Of these, 19 had high-grade glioma and 14 had low-grade glioma on histopathological follow-up. CT perfusion values were obtained and first compared between the tumor region and normal brain parenchyma. Then the relative values of perfusion parameters were compared between high- and low-grade gliomas. Cut-off values, sensitivity, specificity, and strength of agreement for each parameter were calculated and compared subsequently. A conjoint factor (permeability surface area product + cerebral blood volume) was also evaluated since permeability surface area product and cerebral blood volume are considered complimentary factors for tumor vascularity.

Results All five perfusion parameters namely permeability surface area product, cerebral blood volume, cerebral blood flow, mean transit time, and time to peak were found significantly higher in the tumor region than normal brain parenchyma. Among these perfusion parameters, only relative permeability surface area product and relative cerebral blood volume were found significant in differentiating high- and low-grade glioma. Moreover, relative permeability surface area product was significantly better than all other perfusion parameters with highest sensitivity and specificity (97.74 and 100%, respectively, at a cut-off of 9.0065). Relative permeability surface area product had a very good agreement with the histopathology grade. The conjoint factor did not yield any significant diagnostic advantage over permeability surface area product.

Conclusion Relative permeability surface area product and relative cerebral blood volume were helpful in differentiating high- and low-grade glioma; however, relative permeability surface area product was significantly better than all other perfusion parameters. Grading brain gliomas using relative permeability surface area product can add crucial value in their management and prognostication; hence, it should be evaluated in the routine CT perfusion imaging protocol.
Comparison of Cardiac Indices Using Two Different Concentrations of Topical Adrenaline during Endoscopic Transsphenoidal Pituitary Surgery: A Prospective Randomized Observational Study
Authors: Gautam Archana , Haldar Rudrashish , Srivastava Shashi , Gupta Devendra , Jaiswal Awadhesh Kumar , Mishra Prabhaker
Published: November 2023

Introduction Adrenaline-soaked wicks are often employed to decongest nasal mucosa during transsphenoidal pituitary surgeries to ensure proper hemostasis and visibility of the operating field. Considerable debate exists regarding the optimum concentration of adrenaline that strikes a balance between hemostasis as well as the hemodynamic side effects of adrenaline. This study assessed cardiac indices like cardiac output and cardiac index using a FloTrac Vigileo cardiac output monitor to compare two different concentrations of adrenaline used for topical instillation.

Materials and Methods 60 adult patients undergoing transsphenoidal pituitary surgery were randomly assigned to receive cotton wicks soaked in adrenaline solution (either 1:100,000 or 1:200,000) for nasal decongestion. Following a standardized anesthetic regime, a FloTrac Vigileo cardiac output monitor was attached with the invasive arterial line for precise monitoring and recording of cardiac indices (cardiac output and cardiac index). Additionally, quality of surgical field (as reported by the operating surgeon) blood loss, incidences of adverse hemodynamic events, and rescue drug usage were recorded.

Results No difference in cardiac outputs and cardiac indexes of the patients was observed during baseline to 55 minutes and at 80 minutes and onward, whereas difference rose to statistical significance at the time points of 60 minutes and 70 minutes (p < 0.05). Other parameters like stroke volume, stroke volume variation, and hemodynamic parameters were similar. Quality of the surgical fields (as reported by the surgeon), intraoperative bleeding, incidences of adverse effects, and frequency of rescue drugs usage were similar.

Conclusion Instillation of 1:100,000 dilution of adrenaline solution compared with 1:200,000 for nasal decongestion is associated with significant rise in cardiac output and cardiac index at 60 and 70 minutes of the surgery with similar blood loss and hemodynamic variables. Therefore, the lower concentration of adrenaline can be recommended for usage during transsphenoidal pituitary surgeries.
Bifrontal–Parietal Ratio: A Novel Risk Factor for Cerebrospinal Fluid Overdrainage after Ventriculoperitoneal Shunting
Authors: Chaisawasthomrong Chonnawee , Saetia Kriangsak
Published: November 2023

Objective This study aimed to examine potential risk factors associated with cerebrospinal fluid overdrainage after ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunting.

Materials and Methods We retrospectively examined the medical records of hydrocephalus patients who underwent VP shunting at a single institution between January 2011 and December 2017 and had a minimum 3-year follow-up. Variables studied included age, gender, hydrocephalus etiology, symptoms, shunt valve, ventricular catheter entry point, and neurosurgical history, including history of external ventricular drainage. Radiographic variables included Evans index, bicaudate index, callosal angle, measurements of frontal lobe thickness, and bifrontal–parietal ratio.

Results Among the 182 study patients, 11 experienced overdrainage. Age, gender, etiology, symptoms, and surgical history did not significantly differ between patients who experienced overdrainage and those who did not. Evans index, bicaudate index, and callosal angle did not significantly differ between the groups. Measurements of frontal lobe thickness and bifrontal–-parietal ratio were significantly lower in the overdrainage group.

Conclusion Bifrontal–parietal ratio may be useful to predict overdrainage after VP shunt surgery.
Arthroscopic Wafer Procedure for Ulnar Impaction Syndrome in an Intact Triangular Fibrocartilage Complex
Authors: Choudhury Muntasir Mannan , Sajeev Suraj , Sheng Brandon Yew Bao , Wijetunga Dashishka Thanuranga , Chin Andrew Yuan Hui
Published: November 2023

Ulnocarpal impaction or ulnar abutment symptom occurs secondary to abnormal load bearing on the ulnar side of the wrist leading to pain symptoms and degeneration of the structures of the ulnocarpal joint.

The two classical surgical methods used to address this problem are ulnar shortening osteotomy and the wafer procedure, which can either be open or arthroscopic. With the advent of arthroscopy, with surgeon harboring arthroscopy skills, arthroscopic wafer resection has been intensely popularized which requires a central perforation of the triangular fibrocartilage to approach the ulna dome through the ulnocarpal joint.

So, what happens in symptomatic patients with ulnocarpal abutment with an intact triangular fibrocartilage complex who have failed conservative management. Do we perform an open procedure or do we create a perforation in the central disc of the triangular fibrocartilage complex to expose the ulnar dome? Or do we just do an ulnar shortening osteotomy?

Here, we describe our arthroscopic technique of conducting arthroscopy in the narrow confines of the space below the triangular fibrocartilage complex above the ulnar dome to carry out an arthroscopic wafer procedure in a triangular fibrocartilage complex with no central perforation. The procedure can produce results similar to those of the classical arthroscopic wafer procedure described explicitly in the literature.
Low-temperature investigations of the physico-mechanical properties of solids and topical problems of cryogenic materials science: Studies in NSC kIPT NAS of Ukraine related to V. I. Startsev’s scientific activity (Review article)
Authors: Sokolenko V. I.
Published: November 2023

The review presents the most significant scientific results obtained at the NSC KIPT NAS of Ukraine during low-temperature studies of the physical and mechanical properties of a wide range of metals and alloys over the period from the second half of the 30 s of the 20th century to recent years. During this period, a school in the field of physics of strength and plasticity was formed at the Institute, at the origins of which were I. V. Obreimov, R. I. Garber, V. I. Startsev, V. I. Khotkevich, B. G. Lazarev, and I. A. Gindin. As a result of the studies of these famous scientists, their students and followers, fundamental concepts in the field of low-temperature physics of strength and plasticity of solids and cryogenic materials science have been developed. The relevance of the results obtained is also confirmed by the development of modern cryogenic and aerospace engineering, nuclear and hydrogen energy, electronics, etc.
Response of ZrC to swift heavy ion irradiation
Authors: Minnette Jacob , Williams Evan , Cureton William , Solomon Alexandre , O’Quinn Eric , Kurley Matthew , Hunt Rodney D. , Park Changyong , Schubert Ina , Trautmann Christina , Lang Maik
Published: November 2023

Zirconium carbide (ZrC) is commonly used for energy sector research, as well as a surrogate for the proposed advanced nuclear fuel candidate uranium carbide. This study investigates structural modifications to nanocrystalline and microcrystalline ZrC resulting from dense electronic excitations induced by swift heavy ion exposure. Samples were irradiated with 946 MeV Au ions to various fluences up to 6 × 1013 ions cm−2 and characterized using synchrotron-based x-ray diffraction. The evolution of the unit-cell parameter and heterogeneous microstrain were evaluated as a function of fluence and compared with those of nanocrystalline and microcrystalline CeO2 (a surrogate for UO2 fuel) irradiated under identical conditions. Distinct differences were observed in the radiation responses of the carbide and oxide across both grain sizes. Most notably, microcrystalline ZrC exhibits swelling characterized by two distinct regimes, which does not result in saturation at the ion fluences achieved. This contrasts with CeO2, which exhibits the well-documented direct-impact defect accumulation mechanism, reaching a steady-state saturation of swelling at higher fluences. Nanocrystalline CeO2 undergoes more pronounced swelling compared with microcrystalline CeO2, in contrast to nanocrystalline ZrC, which exhibits only minimal unit-cell changes. These results demonstrate that swift heavy ion-induced structural changes can be quite different in carbides and oxides, which must be considered when extrapolating fission-fragment type damage in current fuels to advanced fuels.
Probes for noninvasive biological visualization and biosensing of cancer cells
Authors: Kadian Sachin , Shukla Shubhangi , Narayan Roger J.
Published: November 2023

The early detection of tumors and precancerous conditions is vital for cancer diagnosis. Advances in fluorescence microscopic techniques and materials synthesis processes have revolutionized biomarker detection and image-guided cancer surveillance. In particular, novel materials-based diagnostic tools and innovative therapies have facilitated a precise understanding of biological processes at the molecular level. This critical review presents an overview of bioimaging probes, including functionalized chromophoric systems, non-functionalized chromophoric systems, and nanoscale biosensors. Technical challenges and future directions related to these approaches are considered.
Using transducerless time-domain thermoreflectance technique to measure in- and cross-plane thermal conductivity of nanofilms
Authors: Du Yanzheng , Bo Zhenxing , Ma Weigang , Wang Weihua , Zhang Xing
Published: November 2023

Time-domain thermoreflectance (TDTR) and frequency-domain thermoreflectance techniques have been widely used to measure thermal properties. However, the existence of the metal sensor brings some limitations to the experimental measurement, such as temperature limits, disability to measure low in-plane thermal conductivity, in situ measurement cannot be achieved, etc. This paper proposes a transducerless time-domain thermoreflectance method to measure in- and cross-plane thermal conductivity of nanofilms, in which the optical absorption depth and thermal conductivity tensor are considered to establish a new differential equation that can describe the heat conduction process in multilayer structures. This thermal model can also calculate the effects of spot ellipticity and spot offset distance. Then, the analytical solution and relative deviation of this new model and the surface heat flow boundary model used in conventional TDTR are compared by calculating the phase signals. In terms of experimental measurement, this model is successfully used to derive cross- and in-plane thermal conductivity of PdSi and IrNiTa amorphous alloy nanofilms without a metal sensor.
Magnetic field and gas pressure sensor based on Mach–Zehnder interferometer with micro-groove fabricated by femtosecond laser pulse
Authors: Wang Pei , Jiang Chao , Chen Ning , Liu Changning , Cao Tingshui , Huang Huiling , Li Hong
Published: November 2023

A microgroove type Mach–Zehnder interferometer (MZI) for gas pressure and magnetic field measurements was prepared using a femtosecond laser pulse in a single mode fiber. Due to the interference light passing through the microgroove, changing the refractive index (RI) of the medium in the microgroove will change the optical path difference between the two channels, leading to significant drift of the MZI transmission spectrum, thus achieving the measurement of environmental parameters. When the gas pressure inside the microgroove changes, the RI of the air changes, achieving the measurement of environmental gas pressure. When the microgroove is filled with magnetic fluid, changes in the environmental magnetic field will cause changes in the RI of the magnetic fluid, thus achieving measurement of the magnetic field. The experimental results show that the gas pressure sensitivity of the sensor is −5.03 nm/MPa, and the temperature cross-sensitivity is only 1.31 kPa/°C. This sensor achieves a magnetic field sensitivity of −0.3505 nm/mT in the magnetic field range of 6.4–13.6 mT. The sensor is small in size and easy to manufacture, making it a good choice for measuring air pressure and magnetic field.
Effects of nutrient concentration and scaffold elasticity on the tissue growth in a tissue engineering scaffold channel
Authors: Fattahpour Haniyeh , Sanaei Pejman
Published: November 2023

Tissue-engineering scaffolds contain channels lined by cells that allow nutrient-rich culture medium to pass through to encourage cell proliferation. Several factors have significant impacts on the tissue growth, including the nutrient flow rate, concentration in the feed, scaffold elasticity, and cell properties. Recent studies have investigated these effects separately; however, in this work, we examine all of them simultaneously. Our objectives in this work are as follows: (i) developing a mathematical model describing the nutrient flow dynamics and concentration, scaffold elasticity, and cell proliferation; (ii) solving the model and then simulating the cell proliferation process; and (iii) optimizing the initial configuration of the scaffold channels to maximize the cell growth. The results of our study demonstrate that the rate of nutrient consumption by the cells (cell hunger rate) and the scaffold elastic compliance have an impact on tissue growth, with higher cell hunger rates leading to longer incubation periods, while scaffold elastic compliance slightly affects overall growth. Furthermore, decreasing the scaffold elastic compliance while maintaining a constant nutrient consumption rate results in an optimal funnel-shaped channel geometry, where the upper part of the channel is larger than the downstream, promoting enhanced tissue integration and functionality.
Ultrafast SET/RESET operation for optoelectronic hybrid phase-change memory device cells based on Ge2Sb2Te5 material using partial crystallization strategy
Authors: Wu Ben , Wei Tao , Liu Qianchen , Cheng Yan , Zheng Yonghui , Wang Ruirui , Liu Qianqian , Cheng Miao , Li Wanfei , Hu Jing , Ling Yun , Liu Bo
Published: November 2023

Combination of nonvolatile storage and in-memory computing promises to break through the “memory bottleneck” that computing device adopts von Neumann architecture with individual computing and memory unit. Thus, the advanced nonvolatile memory device with ultrafast operation speed is urgently required. Here, the optoelectronic hybrid phase-change memory based on the Ge2Sb2Te5 material is proposed, where the picosecond laser induced reversible phase-change is utilized to write and erase the information while the resistance difference is adopted to realize the accurate information readout. Due to the significant difference in resistance between crystalline and amorphous states, a partial crystallization strategy can be adopted to achieve ultrafast SET operation. Results indicate that SET operation speed of the Ge2Sb2Te5 film and device unit can be as fast as 52 and 130 ps, respectively, while the RESET speed reaches 13 ps. In parallel, the resistance ratio of RESET to SET state is still as high as two orders of magnitude. By using partial crystallization strategy, the phase-change induced by picosecond laser only occurs from amorphous to face-centered-cubic crystalline state with low crystallinity and the defective octahedral motif is observed in the Ge2Sb2Te5 film, which is beneficial to achieve the ultrafast operation speed. At the same time, the ordered clusters existed in the as-deposited and picosecond laser induced RESET films can accelerate the nucleation process of the Ge2Sb2Te5 film, which is one of the important reasons for achieving ultrafast SET speed. The optoelectronic hybrid phase-change memory with ultrafast operation speed may be one of the promising solutions for the in-memory computing.
Angle-free random laser enabled efficient photocatalytic degradation of Rhodamine 6G molecules
Authors: You Jheng-Syun , Hou Cheng-Fu , Chao Yu-Chieh , Tsao Yu-Chuan , Feria Denice N. , Lin Tai-Yuan , Chen Yang-Fang
Published: November 2023

Efficient photocatalytic dye degradation has been realized based on the first attempt of using a random laser. In previous studies, most photocatalytic dye degradation was conducted by using broad-angular emission lamps, light-emitting diodes, and conventional lasers. However, these types of light sources could be restricted by some disadvantages, such as weak intensity or high directionality. Unlike traditional lasers, random lasers obviate the need for the cavity. The advantage of broad-angular emission lights and the feature of laser-level intensity make random lasers a promising light source for many potential applications. In this study, an ultraviolet random laser (UVRL) derived from zinc oxide (ZnO) was used in the photocatalytic dye degradation experiment. It is found that the degradation efficiency of the UVRL is much better than that of conventional lasers and ultraviolet light-emitting diodes. The success of applying random laser systems in the photocatalytic reaction is expected to expand the applications of random lasers.
Birds pre-adapted to a road in a heterogeneous and contiguous old-growth forest: a point transect study
Authors: Fulton Graham R. , Beher Jutta , Possingham Hugh P.
Published: November 2023

Roads are present globally across all habitats and their negative impacts on the landscape are being increasingly reported. Yet often more is known about the identity of roadkill than how avian assemblages are impacted by roads. This study used 100 paired point counts by the road and 400 m into the forest interior to assess if the assemblages were different and determine what species may be impacted by the road. The study was undertaken along a highway cut through one of the world’s tallest forests – old-growth karri (Eucalyptus diversicolor) forest of south-western Australia. There was no overall significant difference in species richness and abundance between road and forest interior sites, although a small number of species (4.3%) did demonstrate preferences. Overall, we suggest that the limited significant differences resulted from: (1) the narrowness of the road with the forest canopy frequently extended fully across and (2) the natural variation found in eucalypt forests, which has aided the birds as a pre-adaptation to the presence of this road – because eucalypt forests are a heterogeneous array of streams and forest heterogeneity.
A spherical version of Feynman’s static field momentum example
Authors: Johns Oliver Davis
Published: November 2023

The Feynman demonstration that electromagnetic field momentum is real—even for static fields—can be made more pedagogically useful by simplifying its geometry. Instead of Feynman’s disk with charged balls on its surface, this article uses the geometry of a hollow non-conducting sphere with uniform surface charge density. With only methods available in a typical upper-division electrodynamics course, the initial field angular momentum and the final mechanical angular momentum can then be calculated in closed form and shown to be equal.
Electrical resistivity mapping of potassium-doped few-layer CVD graphene by EBAC measurements
Authors: Okigawa Yuki , Nakajima Hideaki , Okazaki Toshiya , Yamada Takatoshi
Published: November 2023

The electron beam absorbed current (EBAC) method identifies the open and/or short points in various semiconductor devices, which can be applied to characterize the current path and local resistance in graphene. In this study, potassium (K)-doped few-layer graphene with inhomogeneous K atoms seemed to be one of the appropriate materials to characterize the current path by EBAC. Nonuniform contrast in the EBAC image due to inhomogeneous local resistances is observed, which is explained by the variation of the Fermi level in the graphene channel from the G-band peak shifts from Raman spectroscopy. The changes in the contrast of the EBAC images are obtained by applying a gate voltage. These changes are attributed to the modulation of the local carrier densities by applying the gate voltage. For comparison, uniform contrast in EBAC images and uniform G-band peak positions of undoped few-layer graphene field effect transistors are confirmed. The obtained results suggest that homogeneous Fermi level leads to a uniform current path. EBAC enables us to evaluate the uniformity of local resistance and current through a pass in the graphene channel, which can be applied to other two-dimensional materials, such as transition metal dichalcogenides, graphene oxide, and hexagonal boron nitride.