bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Malignant otitis externa: What is the role of surgery?
Authors: Zhang Lisa , Bonanno Joseph , Byun Woo Yul , Ren Yin
Published: December 2024

Objective

Malignant otitis externa (MOE) is typically managed with long‐term broad‐spectrum antibiotics. The impact of surgical intervention on clinical outcomes is not well described. This study aims to compare clinical outcomes of MOE patients managed with or without surgery.

Study Design/Setting

Retrospective cohort, academic tertiary referral center.

Methods

Patients diagnosed with MOE between January 2010 to September 2022 were included. Univariate analyses compared symptoms at initial presentation and long‐term (≥1 year) outcomes between surgical and non‐surgical patients.

Results

A total of 23 patients were included (78% male, mean age 69 ± 13 years, median follow‐up 305 days). Most (N = 22, 96%) patients were diabetic. Seventeen (74%) underwent surgical intervention (76% tympanomastoidectomy, 24% external auditory canal debridement and biopsy). Poor facial nerve (FN) function at initial presentation (defined as House‐Brackmann [HB] grade ≥3) significantly predicted undergoing surgical intervention (p = 0.02). Comparing surgically managed versus non‐surgical patients at the time of presentation, there were no differences in the degree of hearing loss, severity of diabetes, rate of insulin dependence, incidence of immunosuppression, or the Charlson Comorbidity Index (all p > 0.05). FN outcomes at long‐term follow‐up also did not significantly differ (p > 0.05). No significant differences in the length of stay (9 vs. 6 days, p = 0.2), rate of readmission (31% vs. 17%, p = 0.5) or 5‐year overall survival (53% vs. 66%, p = 0.6) were observed between surgical and non‐surgical patients.

Conclusions

Long‐term outcomes for patients with MOE remain poor. Patients with poor FN function at presentation were more likely to undergo surgical intervention. Patient comorbidities, including the severity of diabetes, were not predictive of undergoing surgery. However, surgical intervention for MOE did not appear to lower the length of stay, the rate of hospital readmission, or overall mortality in our cohort.

Level of Evidence

III
Meniere's disease: Structural considerations in early cochlea hydrops
Authors: Pender Daniel J.
Published: December 2024

Objective

Structural features of the human cochlea may control early lesion formation in endolymphatic hydrops. This process may hinge on three structural features: the flattened spiral shape of the human cochlea, the toroidal configuration of the distended cochlea duct, and the distensibility characteristics of Reissner's membrane. An analytical method is presented to assess the variation in hydropic distention that may occur in the several turns of the cochlea due to these structural features.

Methods

A normal human cochlea is used to illustrate the method of analysis. Structural dimensions were taken from a mid‐modiolar section. Reissner's membrane was projected to assume a spiral toroid shape as it distends. Peak membrane stress proclivities in each cochlea turn were calculated analytically. Membrane strain was assessed from a collagen model of Reissner's membrane. Sagittal membrane displacements were quantified geometrically.

Results

Stress levels in Reissner's membrane were projected to be the lowest in the lower basal turn and to increase progressively to a peak value in the apex. Strain in Reissner's membrane in the apical turn was projected to be substantially higher than in the lower turns. Sagittal displacement of Reissner's membrane was projected to be most pronounced in the apical turn in all the stages of early cochlea hydrops.

Conclusion

Structural features appear to underlie a differential susceptibility to hydrops in the human cochlea. The flattened spiral shape of the human cochlea coupled with the anticlastic configuration and the distensile characteristics of Reissner's membrane are projected to result in distinct histological stages as hydropic disease in the cochlea progresses.
Developing a mobile application for gender‐affirming voice training: A community‐engaged approach
Authors: Alter Isaac L. , Chadwick Keith A. , Andreadis Katerina , Coleman Rachel , Pitti Mary , Ezell Jerel M. , Rameau Anaïs
Published: December 2024

Objectives

To date, there has yet to be a rigorous exploration of voice and communication modification training (VCMT) among transgender and gender‐nonconforming (TGNC) individuals using digital technology. We sought to evaluate and describe the iterative process of app development using a community‐based approach.

Methods

An interprofessional team of voice health care professionals, application developers, designers, and TGNC community members was assembled to conceive the functionality, content, and design of a mobile app to support VCMT for TGNC people. Six TGNC individuals, identified primarily by word of mouth, joined the development team as a Community Advisory Board (CAB). The CAB provided input on app content development, design choices, and user experience, with collaboration across disciplines and integration of TGNC community members throughout app development; the applicability of CBPR principles was evaluated throughout the development process.

Results

Iterative cycles of content creation and feedback produced multiple substantial changes during the app's development, including added functionality, improved inclusivity and accessibility, and design and branding enhancements. Several successful outcomes from our approach were identified, including the recruitment of dedicated CAB members and interprofessional collaboration that included community members. Challenges included integration of multiple different approaches and levels of expertise, navigating TGNC individuals' participation without exploitation, and creating high‐quality content on a limited budget.

Conclusions

Our process demonstrates the value of including a CAB in the design of a digital VCMT platform, and suggests a potential for community‐based participatory research (CBPR) in laryngology and speech language pathology, where uptake of this framework has remained limited.

Level of Evidence

Level 5.
Future Arctic: how will increasing coastal erosion shape nearshore planktonic food webs?
Authors: Juma Gabriel A. , Meunier Cédric L. , Herstoff Emily M. , Irrgang Anna M. , Fritz Michael , Weber Caroline , Lantuit Hugues , Kirstein Inga V. , Boersma Maarten
Published: December 2024

Arctic regimes. Currently, warming accelerates the erosion of permafrost coasts and the associated discharge of sediment, carbon, and nutrients into the Arctic Ocean. However, the impacts of coastal erosion on planktonic food webs remain understudied. We aimed to (1) understand how coastal erosion impacts nearshore carbon, nutrient, and light regimes; (2) investigate the effects on primary production and energy transfer; and (3) predict how increased erosion will impact the productivity of consumers, and the overall food web interactions. We found that sediment discharge increases turbidity (darkening). This darkening is expected to hamper phytoplankton productivity, while additional carbon input will provide bacteria with direct energy sources, and shift the balance between basal autotrophic and heterotrophic production. Since the heterotrophic pathway has a lower efficiency, its dominance might negatively affect mesozooplankton. Increased Arctic coastal erosion might therefore influence planktonic food webs by changing mechanisms of energy mobilization and transfer to higher trophic levels.
Orbital Angular Momentum of Structured Vortex Beams Induced by Intensity Singularity
Authors: Hu Juntao , Wei Wenjun , Li Xinzhong , Shen Yijie , Zhan Qiwen , Li Guixin , Qian Yixian
Published: December 2024

A new category of optical orbital angular momentum (OAM) associated with intensity singularity independent of phase singularity is predicted, and a kind of structured vortex beams (VBs) with arbitrary transverse shapes is demonstrated. A universal inverse‐designed caustic scheme is developed for generating such structured VBs which exhibit crucial intensity gradient and phase gradient. Additionally, they exhibit nonuniformly distributed phase gradients, capable of driving particles accelerately along a desired trajectory. Particle trapping experiments validate that such structured VBs without phase singularity drive the trapped particles to move along predefined trajectories. The idea not only provides an approach for generating and manipulating OAM from intensity singularity, enabling to spur further independent insights into the generation of OAM, but also paves the way for optically driving and accelerating particles along a desired trajectory.
The Scintillating Dynamics of Self‐Trapped Exciton Endowed/Unendowed by Thermally Activated Delayed Fluorescence
Authors: Yin Hang , Zhou Xin , Song Bingxi , Wang Ruichen , Li Boya , Sun Jinglu , Wei Qinhua , Cai Peiqing , Chen Zhen , Yang Fan , Qin Laishun
Published: December 2024

Triplet generation and control are widely studied in high‐energy scintillating materials, owing to their critical roles in thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) and energy‐transfer processes. However, X‐ray excited inorganic scintillators, such as Cs2ZrCl6, present various defect traps in the self‐trapped exciton states. Hence, the mobility of the hot carriers that participate in scintillating dynamics is disorderly, and they may contribute to TADF or suppress the TADF pathway. This study prepares a series of Cs2ZrCl6: x%m‐MTDATA (x% = 0%–10%) organic–inorganic hybrid scintillators to achieve tunable photoluminescence (PL) and radioluminescence (RL) through a directional energy‐transfer pathway. This work highlights the different scintillating carrier dynamics of Cs2ZrCl6: x%m‐MTDATA under ultraviolet or X‐ray excitation. The introduction of m‐MTDATA into Cs2ZrCl6 could increase the trap depths and ensure thermal quenching under X‐ray excitation, rather than inducing thermal activation, resulting in a weak X‐ray excited afterglow output and fast RL decay time. These findings provide a paradigm for future research on organic–inorganic hybrid X‐ray scintillators, opening new opportunities for detecting high‐energy radiations.
Unique Spectral Broadening Induced by Exchange Coupling Between Cr3+ Ions in LiAl5O8:Cr3+ Phosphors for Versatile Optical Applications
Authors: Yan Yuqing , Huang Feifeng , Zhu Guanyu , Zhang Yi , Gao Zhexuan , Wang Huanping , Deng Degang , Yu Hua , Xu Shiqing
Published: December 2024

Broadband near‐infrared (NIR) phosphors activated by Cr3+ ions are critical for developing NIR phosphor‐converted light‐emitting diodes (pc‐LEDs). The temperature‐dependent behaviors of the narrowband 2E → 4A2 and broadband 4T2 → 4A2 transitions of Cr3+ ions differ, which makes Cr3+‐activated phosphors highly promising for ratio optical thermometers. How to obtain Cr3+‐activated phosphors with both high luminescence efficiency and thermal stability is a challenge. Herein, a strategy of adjusting the doping levels is adopted to precisely control the exchange coupling between Cr3+ ions in LiAl5O8: Cr3+ phosphors. As Cr3+ ions doping concentration increases, the NIR emission shifts from narrowband to broadband. Under heavy doping concentrations, the sample exhibits an unusual broadband emission in a strong crystal field, covering 645 to 1300 nm, with a peak emission wavelength of 950 nm and a FWHM of 295 nm. Simultaneously, a high internal quantum efficiency (IQE = 85%) and excellent thermal stability (I423K/I293K = 86%) are achieved, highlighting the broad application potential of the developed NIR pc‐LEDs. Interestingly, under low‐concentration doping, the sample exhibits dual emission characteristics, and the temperature dependence of its two emission peaks shows opposite trends. Utilizing fluorescence intensity ratio (FIR) technology, the sample achieves a relative sensitivity of 0.30% K⁻¹, highlighting its promising potential for temperature sensing applications.
Hierarchical Glass Fiber Superstructures with Supramolecular Nanofibers for the Nucleation of Isotactic Polypropylene
Authors: Schröder Dennis , Thanner Jannik , Kreger Klaus , Schmidt Hans‐Werner
Published: December 2024

Supramolecular additives are an established class of nucleating agents to modify and control the solid‐state morphology of semi‐crystalline polymers, in particular isotactic polypropylene (iPP). A widely used reinforcement material for iPP is glass fibers (GFs), which significantly improve the mechanical properties. Here, these two types of materials are combined by creating defined hierarchical superstructures composed of glass microfiber nonwovens and supramolecular nanofibers based on selected 1,3,5‐benzetrisamides (BTA). The supramolecular nanofibers are prepared by physical vapor deposition (PVD), a straightforward solvent‐free process. By systematically varying PVD process parameters, it is shown that supramolecular BTA nanofibers can be reproducibly prepared on flat substrates. The morphology of the supramolecular nanofibers can be controlled by substrate temperature, evaporation time, and evaporation rate. The use of GF nonwovens enables the fabrication of hierarchical superstructures with a bottlebrush morphology comprising supramolecular nanofibers of defined length. These hierarchical superstructures are capable of nucleating iPP and thus promote transcrystallization of the iPP from the decorated GFs surface, which ultimately improves the adhesion between the GFs and the iPP. Laminating decorated GF nonwovens between two iPP films clearly increases the mechanical properties of the composites in contrast to composites without nucleating agents.
The R∞$R_\infty$‐property and commensurability for nilpotent groups
Authors: Lathouwers Maarten , Witdouck Thomas
Published: December 2024

For finitely generated torsion‐free nilpotent groups, the associated Mal'cev Lie algebra of the group is used frequently when studying the ‐property. Two such groups have isomorphic Mal'cev Lie algebras if and only if they are abstractly commensurable. We show that the ‐property is not invariant under abstract commensurability within the class of finitely generated torsion‐free nilpotent groups by providing counterexamples within a class of 2‐step nilpotent groups associated to edge‐weighted graphs. These groups are abstractly commensurable to 2‐step nilpotent quotients of right‐angled Artin groups.
The Bound‐State Soliton Solution of the Generalized Inhomogeneous Hirota Equation
Authors: Wang Yilin , Li Biao
Published: December 2024

We develop the Riemann‐Hilbert (RH) method for the generalized inhomogeneous Hirota equation with zero boundary condition. The RH problem is related to two kinds of scattering data: simple poles and one ‐order pole. Here, we consider that when the scattering data have one or more higher order poles, the formulas of bound‐state (BS) solitons and multiple BS solitons are obtained, and the interaction between solitons and BS solitons are shown.
New Results for Periodic Discrete Nonlinear SchröDinger Equations
Authors: Xu Xiaoliang , Chen Huiwen , Ouyang Zigen
Published: December 2024

Consider the nonlinear difference equations of the form , where is a Jacobi operator given by for and are real valued ‐periodic sequences, and . Applying critical point theory and a new analytical method, we obtain that the above problem has ground state solutions and infinitely many geometrically distinct solutions under the local superlinear condition uniformly in for some set instead of the global superlinear condition uniformly in .
Identities and Approximation Formulas for Faulhaber'S Formula Revealing in Applications of Moment Generating Function, Distribution, and Arithmetic Functions
Authors: Simsek Buket , Simsek Yilmaz , Sukruoglu Elif
Published: December 2024

The aim of this paper is to derive many novel formulas involving the sum of powers of consecutive integers, the Bernoulli polynomials, the Stirling numbers and moments arise from conditional probability, moment generating functions and arithmetic functions by using the methods and techniques, which are used in discrete distributions in statistics such as uniform distribution, moment generating functions, and other probability distributions. Moreover, relations among the generalized Euler totient function, finite distributions containing special numbers and polynomials, discrete probability formula, and other special functions are given. By using the Riemann zeta function and the Liouville function, we derive a novel moment formula for probability distribution on the set positive integers. Finally, by using approximation formulas for certain family of finite sums, we derive formulas not only for the sum of powers of consecutive integers involving the Bernoulli polynomials, but also for the conditional probability involving the Laplace rule of succession.
Global and Regional Prevalence of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: A Meta‐Analysis Based on a Systematic Review
Authors: Gebrye T. , Jeans E. , Yeowell G. , Mbada C. , Fatoye F.
Published: December 2024

Background

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a considerable concern, impacting individual health and socio‐economic factors. A systematic review and meta‐analysis of CTS prevalence would offer valuable insights for healthcare planning, improving outcomes and reducing the burden on affected individuals.

Methods

In line with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, a meta‐analysis was conducted to estimate the prevalence of CTS. Medline, CINAHL, AMED, Scopus, and Web of Science databases were searched for studies published from 1 January 2012 to 10 October 2024. The pooled prevalence rates were determined using a random effects model.

Results

The search yielded 548 initial findings, 103 duplicate records were eliminated, and only 31 of these papers were deemed relevant for inclusion in this review. The prevalence estimates were sourced from 15 different countries, including the United States (n = 8), Saudi Arabia (n = 5), Ethiopia (n = 3), Turkey (n = 2), Iran (n = 2) and Brazil (n = 2), among others. Each of the following countries contributed one study: China, France, Germany, India, Kuwait, the United Kingdom, Korea, the Netherlands, and Sweden. In total, the included studies analysed 5,311,785 individuals, revealing a prevalence of CTS ranging from 0.003 to 0.743. The random‐effects meta‐analysis yielded an overall prevalence estimate of 0.144, with a 95% confidence interval (CI) of 0.067–0.282, based on 30 studies.

Conclusion

The prevalence estimates for CTS are notably high, highlighting the need for effective surgical management strategies. Developing and implementing these interventions is crucial to enhancing health outcomes for individuals affected by CTS.
Prevalence and Determinants of Antenatal Depression Risk Among Urban Women Seeking Antenatal Clinical Care at a District Hospital in Ghana
Authors: Adarkwa Opei Kwafo , Opoku Douglas Aninng , Larsen‐Reindorf Roderick E. , Owusu‐Dabo Ellis , Boamah Benedicta , Adarkwa Magdalene , Obirikorang Christian , Nartey Yvonne A. , Adjei Timothy Kwabena , Mohammed Aliyu
Published: December 2024

Aim

To determine the prevalence and factors associated with antenatal depression risk among pregnant women attending antenatal care at a district hospital in Kumasi, Ghana.

Study Design

This was a hospital‐based cross‐sectional study.

Methods

A questionnaire was used to collect data from 207 pregnant women attending antenatal care at Manhyia District Hospital from September 2020 to November 2020. The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale was used to screen for depression risk. Factors associated with antenatal depression risk were evaluated using logistic regression analysis.

Results

The prevalence of antenatal depression risk was 13.5% (n = 28). The most commonly reported intimate partner violence that contributed to depression risk was physical abuse (16.9%, n = 35). Factors such as physical abuse (AOR = 3.36, 95% CI: 1.13–10.02), domestic abuse (AOR = 3.88, 95% CI: 1.01–15.00) and self‐harm ideation (AOR = 8.50, 95% CI: 2.44–29.63) were associated with increased odds of antenatal depression risk among the study participants.

Conclusion

This study revealed a low prevalence of antenatal depression risk. Extra attention should be given to factors such as intimate partner violence (domestic and physical abuse) and self‐harm ideation. Also, screening all pregnant women, especially those with risk factors, for the risk of antenatal depression and early diagnosis and treatment of the risk of depression are important for the health of the mother, fetus and newborn.
Association of atrial fibrillation with lamotrigine: An observational cohort study
Authors: Kim Sodam , Welch Landon , Santos Bertha De Los , Radwański Przemysław B. , Munger Mark A. , Kim Kibum
Published: December 2024

Background

Drug‐induced atrial fibrillation (AF) is recognized as an important causal association. Lamotrigine (LTG) is a widely prescribed neurological agent with Class IB antiarrhythmic properties at therapeutically relevant concentrations. The United States Food and Drug Administration has issued a warning for a higher risk of LTG proarrhythmic events in patients with structural heart disease (SHD) and/or myocardial ischemia. This study evaluated the incidence of AF with LTG use.

Methods

A retrospective observational study was performed using a large healthcare claims database of adult participants analyzing 2 years AF incidence. The analytic cohort included adult participants with bipolar I disorder (BPD), partial seizures (PSZ), or generalized tonic–clonic seizures (GTSZ). Exposure to LTG was compared with commonly prescribed alternative agents as the control comparators (CTR). Participants were free from supraventricular or ventricular arrhythmias during the 6 months baseline period prior to the index LTG or CTR date. Kaplan–Meier estimator calculated 2 years cumulative AF incidence, with participants censored at last enrollment, treatment switching, or discontinuation. The AF association hazard ratios (HR) for LTG versus CTR were adjusted for baseline characteristics.

Results

The analytic cohort with BPD, PSZ, and GTSZ consisted, respectively, of 150,470 LTG versus 204,704 CTR, 9565 LTG versus 21,595 CTR, and 5505 LTG versus 15,513 CTR patients. In a predominantly middle‐aged female population at baseline, the prevalence of cardiovascular conditions was low. The 12 months cumulative incidence of AF for LTG versus CTR was 0.764% versus 0.642% among BPD, 0.833% versus 0.646% among PSZ, and 0.585% versus 0.338% among GTSZ, respectively. The adjusted 365‐day HR [95% confidence interval CI] of AF for LTG versus CTR in the BPD, PSZ, and CTSZ groups was 1.257 [1.088–1.453], 1.651 [1.104–2.468], and 1.451 [0.770–2.734], respectively.

Conclusions

In adult AF‐naïve participants, LTG has a strong association with increased AF risk compared with commonly prescribed alternatives.
Proline variants in the BRCA1 coiled‐coil domain disrupt folding and binding to PALB2
Authors: Baker Chrissy N. S. , Pajela Precious Grace C. , Martin Davis E. , Dzyuba Sergei V. , Stewart Mikaela D.
Published: December 2024

Inherited mutations in the genes coding for the tumor suppressor proteins BRCA1 and PALB2 can lead to increased risk of breast and ovarian cancer. Upon DNA damage, these two proteins form a complex to promote double‐stranded break repair via homologous recombination. Missense mutations in either BRCA1 or PALB2 that disrupt this important interaction result in loss of effective DNA damage repair and are associated with breast tumorigenesis. However, the overwhelming majority of missense mutations found in the binding domains of these two genes remain classified as variants of unknown significance. Here we report an in vitro assay for assessing the effect of variants of unknown significance on the heterodimerization of PALB2 and BRCA1 that recapitulates the effect of the known deleterious mutations. We apply the assay to several variants of unknown significance in BRCA1 which reveals other mutations in this region that also disrupt binding, including a mutation of a residue not predicted to directly interact with PALB2. Structural analysis indicates that all BRCA1 mutations to proline tested disrupt α‐helix formation and therefore are not well tolerated even when located at positions outside of the PALB2‐binding interface. This assay and the structural hypothesis described will be helpful for assessing risk for variants identified in the future in the BRCA1/PALB2 interaction domains.
Ralstonia solanacearum infection induces tobacco root to secrete chemoattractants to recruit antagonistic bacteria and defensive compounds to inhibit pathogen
Authors: Feng Yali , Kang Yue , Wang Zhibo , Du Chenyang , Tan Jun , Zhao Xiuyun , Qi Gaofu
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND

Plant root exudates play crucial roles in maintaining the structure and function of the whole belowground ecosystem and regulating the interactions between roots and soil microorganisms. Ralstonia solanacearum causes bacterial wilt disease in many plants, while root exudate‐mediated inhibition of pathogen infection is poorly understood. Here, we characterize the chemical divergence between root exudates of healthy and diseased tobacco plants and the effects of that variability on the rhizosphere microbial community and the occurrence of bacterial wilt.

RESULTS

Compared with the healthy plants, root exudates in diseased plants showed distinct exudation patterns and metabolite profiles including increased amounts of flavonoids, phenylpropanoids, terpenoids and defense‐related hormones, as well as distinct bacterial community composition, as illustrated by an increased abundance of Ralstonia and decreased abundances of Bacillus and Streptomyces in diseased plants rhizosphere. Pathogen infection stimulated roots to secrete more defensive compounds to inhibit pathogen growth. Change of root exudates modulated rhizosphere microbial community. Specific root exudates could benefit plants by attracting antagonistic Bacillus amyloliquefaciens and inhibiting pathogens. Bacillus amyloliquefaciens could utilize specific root exudates as carbon sources. Benzyl cinnamatel promoted the biofilm formation and colonization of B. amyloliquefaciens on roots.

CONCLUSION

To defend against pathogen invasion, tobacco plants recruited antagonistic and plant growth‐promoting rhizobacteria to the rhizosphere by modifying root exudate profiles. Specific signal molecules are recommended to recruit beneficial microorganisms for controlling bacterial wilt. The results provide insights concerning the metabolic divergence of root exudates integral to understanding root‐microorganism interaction. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Design, synthesis, molecular docking and antimicrobial evaluation of benzoylurea derivatives containing difluoromethyl (trifluoromethyl) pyrimidine
Authors: Wu Wenneng , An Jiansong , Lan Wenjun , Chen Haijiang , Fei Qiang , Xu Su , Yin Rongxiu , Yang Lin‐Lin , Yang Song
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND

The reduction in agricultural product quality and yield caused by fungal and bacterial plant diseases has led to considerable economic losses in global crop production and poses a threat to human health. The primary method of control remains the use of chemical agents. In an effort to develop novel and highly effective antimicrobial agents, a series of benzoylurea derivatives incorporating a difluoromethyl (trifluoromethyl) pyrimidine structure were designed and synthesized.

RESULTS

In this study, we designed and synthesized a series of novel benzoylurea derivatives containing difluoromethyl (trifluoromethyl) pyrimidine fragments. Several of the synthesized compounds exhibited notable antifungal activity in vitro against PS, CBC, BBC and TBC. Their efficacy surpassed that of the positive controls HM and Pyr. Notably, 6s demonstrated an EC50 value of 4.10 μg mL−1, significantly lower than the 31.25 μg mL−1 for Pyr. In antibacterial assays, 6s also showed an 87.49% inhibition rate against Xoc. Moreover, in vivo tests against CBC revealed a protective efficacy of 59.39% at a concentration of 25 μg mL−1. Molecular docking simulations further supported its strong activity. To explore the mechanism of action of 6s on CBC, we conducted scanning electron microscopy, succinate dehydrogenase enzyme assays, and measurements of dry weight, membrane permeability, cellular contents, and ROS.

CONCLUSION

This study underscores the potential of benzoylurea derivatives containing difluoromethyl (trifluoromethyl) pyrimidine fragments as lead compounds for the management of CBC. The results offer important insights and pave the way for the development of novel fungicides, contributing to improved crop protection strategies in agriculture. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Mechanism and strategy of self‐assembly of quaternary ammonium surfactant molecules to regulate pesticide droplet impact and wetting of hydrophobic surfaces
Authors: He Lifei , Liu Xiaolong , Kong Xianhao , Zhang Pengjiu , Liu Zhongfang , Yang Jing , Fan Renjun , Gao Yue
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND

Surfactants regulate the interaction between pesticide droplets and the surfaces of plants on which they are sprayed. The influence of the key structural functional groups of surfactants on the interaction between pesticide droplets and hydrophobic pear leaves has not been explored. The behavior of Imidacloprid (Imid) droplets regulated by cationic quaternary ammonium surfactants with different structures on hydrophobic pear leaves and their bouncing dynamics were studied.

RESULTS

The properties of pesticide droplets regulated by rosin‐based bicationic quaternary ammonium salt and ethylene (dodecyl polyoxyethylene/tetradecyl polyoxyethylene) chloride/ammonium bromide were well matched with those of pear leaves with a waxy layer. This structure was closely related to the double‐chain structure corresponding to that of double N‐head groups in quaternary ammonium surfactants. Quaternary ammonium surfactants regulate the wetting of droplets by forming semi‐micellar structures near the three‐phase contact line, which drives the droplets to wet and spread on the leaf. The quaternary ammonium surfactant containing the double N‐head structure enabled strong wetting and adhesion of pesticide droplets on the hydrophobic surface. The key structural functional groups of different quaternary ammonium surfactants directionally modified the impact kinetics of Imid droplets on the leaf surfaces and their changing trend.

CONCLUSION

The double N‐head structure played a key role in the molecular structure of quaternary ammonium surfactants, and the hyperbranched ethylene oxide (EO) chain played a small role in the molecular structure. These results clearly indicate how the structure of key functional groups of quaternary ammonium surfactants regulated the interface adhesion of pesticide droplets on the leaf surfaces and explain the microscopic mechanism of their interaction. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Experimental Study on Influencing Factors of Seebeck Coefficient by Using NiCr/NiSi Thin‐Film Thermocouple Prepared and Calibrated
Authors: Liu Zhihui , Shen Kai , Wang Xingshu , Zhang Maopeng , Cheng Yongjun , Wang Bi , Zhou Jiankang , Wu Mengxuan , Sun Yi , Ding Wanyu , Wang Zixi
Published: December 2024

Accurate calibration of the Seebeck coefficient is crucial for reliable temperature measurements using thin‐film thermocouples. In this study, the calibration of NiCr/NiSi thin‐film thermocouples is investigated for precise temperature measurements. Using the magnetron sputtering method, a series of NiCr/NiSi film thermocouples are prepared and their Seebeck coefficients are obtained through standard calibration procedures. The results demonstrate good consistency and reproducibility of the thermoelectric output within the temperature range of 0–505 °C. Notably, the Seebeck coefficients remain nearly constant regardless of changes in the top and bottom order or resistance values of the NiCr and NiSi thermoelectrodes. Furthermore, it is found that the addition of an SiO2 protective film does not affect the calibration Seebeck coefficients of the NiCr/NiSi film thermocouples, with values of 7.94 and 7.96 μV °C for film thermocouples with and without SiO2, respectively. These findings provide valuable insights into the calibration of thin‐film thermocouples and can enhance the accuracy of temperature measurements. The study contributes to scientific research and engineering applications in the field of thin‐film thermocouple calibration.
Lead‐Free Piezoelectric (K0.5, Na0.5) NbO3‐Natural Rubber Energy Harvester for Sensors
Authors: Ashokan Vinatha , James Nijesh K.
Published: December 2024

This study aims to develop flexible, biocompatible mechanical energy harvesters for self‐powered sensor applications, utilizing lead‐free potassium sodium niobate (K0.5, Na0.5) NbO3 (KNN) ceramic fillers embedded in natural rubber (NR) matrix. KNN ceramic fillers are synthesized using the conventional mixed oxide method and incorporated into the NR matrix to evaluate the effect of varying filler concentrations on the piezoelectric, dielectric, and mechanical properties of the composite. The findings suggest that as the KNN filler content increases, the electrical properties, including piezoelectric and dielectric performance, improve, whereas the mechanical properties, such as tensile strength and flexibility, decrease. This work offers a sustainable, lead‐free alternative for energy harvesting systems, with potential applications in flexible electronics, wearable devices, and biomedical sensors.
Numerical Analysis of High‐Efficiency Chalcogenide Perovskite Solar Cells (InBiSe3/GaBiSe3): Study of Single and Bilayer Configurations
Authors: Benahmedi Lakhdar , Besbes Anissa , Djelti Radouan , Moulebhar Samia
Published: December 2024

Chalcogenide perovskites are emerging as a promising alternative to hybrid halide perovskites for optoelectronic applications, owing to their excellent light absorption and chemical stability. This study investigates the performance of single‐ and dual‐absorber solar cell devices using InBiSe3 and GaBiSe3 as absorber materials, simulated using the solar cell capacitance simulator in one dimension software. The devices employ WS2 as the electron transport layer and CuO as the hole transport layer. For single‐absorber devices, GaBiSe3 achieve a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 26.58%, with a VOC of 0.94 V, a fill factor (FF) of 86.82%, and a short‐circuit current density (JSC) of 32.52 mA cm−2. InBiSe3 performs slightly lower, with a PCE of 21.44%, VOC of 1.25 V, FF of 87.83%, and JSC of 19.49 mA cm−2. The bilayer configuration, incorporating InBiSe3 as the top layer and GaBiSe3 as the bottom layer, shows the highest efficiency of 30%, with a VOC of 1.06 V, JSC of 32.78 mA cm−2, and FF of 85.97%. The study also examines the effects of temperature, shunt resistance, and series resistance on the device performance, as well as the influence of absorber layer thickness, defect density, and back contact variations.
Modeling telomere shortening process
Authors: Han Panpan , Zhou Yang , Deng Weihua
Published: December 2024

Cell senescence has attracted much attention in the long history of human beings, and telomere shortening (TS) is one of the main concerns in the study of cell senescence. To reveal the microscopic mechanism of TS process, we model it based on molecular stochastic process from the perspective of nonequilibrium statistical physics. We associate the TS process with the continuous time random walk and derive the Fokker–Planck equation to describe the length distribution of the TS. We further modify the model describing the TS process, similar to the anomalous tempered diffusion, and derive the Feynman–Kac equation characterizing the functional distribution of the TS process. Finally, we study the statistics related to the critical telomere length lc, including the occupation time and first passage time. These two kinds of statistics help us understand the time scale of cell senescence.
Quantum Depletion of Superconductivity in 3D Diamond Nanowires
Authors: Zhang Gufei , Collienne Simon , Zulkharnay Ramiz , Ke Xiaoxing , Liu Liwang , Li Songyu , Zhang Sen , Zhang Yongzhe , Li Yejun , Mortensen N. Asger , Moshchalkov Victor V. , Zhu Jiaqi , Silhanek Alejandro V. , May Paul W.
Published: December 2024

Superconducting nanowires underpin the development of a variety of highly advanced quantum devices such as single‐photon detectors and quantum circuits. In 1D superconducting nanowires, topological fluctuations of the superconducting order parameter, known as phase slips, severely influence the electrical transport. In 3D systems, however, phase‐slip events are generally considered to be insignificant. Here, details on the observation of a reentrant resistive state in 3D superconducting diamond nanowires (DNWs) are reported. This exotic resistive state alters the trend of the superconducting transition with an abrupt change of the temperature and magnetic‐field coefficients of resistivity and the current coefficient of voltage. This reentrant resistive state is interpreted as being a result of quantum phase slips in the bamboo‐like DNWs consisting of multiple sequential grain‐boundary‐grain junctions. The results provide the first evidence that quantum phase slips can also play a crucial role in determining the electrical transport properties of 3D superconducting nanowires.
State of the Art and Development Trend of Laparoscopic Surgical Robot and Master Manipulator
Authors: Han Rui , Sang Hongqiang , Liu Fen , Huang Fang
Published: December 2024

Background

In recent years, laparoscopic surgical robots have rapidly developed. However, most focus on the overall robotic systems, with few summaries on the laparoscopic surgical robots and the master manipulators.

Methods

This paper provides a summary and analysis of typical laparoscopic surgical robots, including the strengths and limitations of existing laparoscopic surgical robots. Additionally, the master manipulators are analysed and summarised from four aspects: structural design and optimization, time‐varying delays, tremor suppression and force feedback. Further classification and summary are made based on the different methods used in each study.

Results

Laparoscopic surgical robots and the master manipulators still have some limitations. Therefore, the development trends of the laparoscopic surgical robots and the master manipulators are discussed from four aspects: structural materials, remote surgery, intelligence and human–machine interaction.

Conclusion

With the continuous advancement of technology, laparoscopic surgical robots will play an increasingly important role in the field of surgery.
The relationship between controlled ovarian stimulation protocol, meiotic spindle visibility, position of the meiotic spindle relative to the polar body in the human oocyte, and clinical outcomes following ICSI
Authors: Inoue Taketo , Matsuo Yuki , Taguchi Sayumi , Tsujimoto Yoshiko , Uemura Mikiko , Yamashita Yoshiki
Published: December 2024

Purpose

To investigate the effects of different controlled ovarian stimulation (COS) protocols, including the progestin‐primed ovarian stimulation (PPOS), long, short, and the gonadotropin‐releasing hormone antagonist protocols, on meiotic spindle visibility and position within the oocyte and clinical outcomes following ICSI.

Methods

Before ICSI, spindle position (θ) just below the polar body (PB) was defined as 0° and categorized as follows: θ = 0°, 0° < θ ≤ 30°, 30° < θ ≤ 60°, 60° < θ ≤ 90°, 90° < θ ≤ 180°, between the PB and the oolemma, and nonvisible. The clinical outcomes after ICSI were retrospectively analyzed.

Results

The normal fertilization rate was significantly higher in oocytes with visible spindles than in oocytes with nonvisible spindles after each COS protocol, but did not differ based on spindle positioning (0° ≤ θ ≤ 180°). The rates of pregnancy, live birth/ongoing pregnancy, and miscarriage did not differ based on spindle visibility or positioning. In multinominal logistic regression analysis, female age was associated with spindle position, and the odds of a spindle located at 30° < θ ≤ 60°, at 60° < θ ≤ 90°, or at 90° < θ ≤ 180° were increased relative to θ = 0° in older women (odds ratio; 1.020, 1.030, and 1.060, respectively; p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Meiotic spindle positioning in the oocyte does not affect normal fertilization, blastulation, pregnancy, live birth/ongoing pregnancy, and miscarriage after ICSI, independent of the COS protocol used.
A New Model‐Free Adaptive Integral Sliding Mode Control for Interconnected Power Systems Load Frequency Control
Authors: Mustafa Ghazally , Wang Haoping , Masum M. D.
Published: December 2024

The paper proposes a novel model‐free adaptive robust controller for load frequency control in multi‐area interconnected power systems. The controller combines model‐free control based on a nonlinear disturbance observer (NDOB) and adaptive integral sliding mode control. The main aim of the controller is to maintain the power system frequency close to the nominal value and achieve a balanced power exchange between tie‐lines, considering the system's nonlinearities and disturbances. The proposed controller comprises four components. First, model‐free intelligent PID control is implemented to overcome the complexity of the current controller, introduce the required dynamics, and reduce higher‐order output derivatives. Second, a nonlinear disturbance observer is utilized to estimate the system dynamics considering uncertainties and load fluctuations. Third, fast convergence is achieved by employing an integral sliding surface. Finally, an adaptation gain dynamic is used to achieve high accuracy. The advantage of the proposed model‐free adaptive robust controller lies in its simple structure and ease of regulation. The closed‐loop system's stability and finite‐time convergence are examined using Lyapunov stability theory. A comparison with recently published papers is conducted to validate the proposed controller's effectiveness. Additionally, robustness testing of the proposed method is performed in different scenarios.
Dynamic Event‐Triggered Output Feedback Control for a Class of Uncertain Nonlinear Systems
Authors: Liu Zifan , Xing Lantao , Zhang Chenghui
Published: December 2024

In this article, the dynamic event‐triggered output feedback control problem for a class of uncertain nonlinear systems is studied. Since system states are not available for controller design, a state observer is designed to estimate them. On the basis of the estimated states, a dynamic event‐triggered control scheme is proposed. Compared with existing event‐triggered schemes, a dynamic auxiliary variable is added in the event conditions. By properly designing the dynamics of the auxiliary variable, it is proved that the tracking/stabilization error is able to converge to zero without the presence of Zeno behavior. The effectiveness of the control scheme is verified by simulation results.
Novel slow‐release fertilizer promotes nitrogen circularity while increasing soil organic carbon
Authors: Coyle Katherine , Adjei Jedidian , Abbasi Ehsan , Vargas Princess , Slaughter Lindsey , Alvarez‐Pugliese Christian E. , Botte Gerardine G. , Siebecker Matthew G.
Published: December 2024

In the coming decades, humanity will be faced with the challenge of feeding 10 billion people and managing large quantities of solid waste. These issues can be mitigated through the development of sustainable fertilizers derived from electrochemically treated waste activated sludge (EWAS) while promoting a nitrogen circular economy. This study investigates the chemistry of novel fertilizers to determine their soil chemistry dynamics. Untreated waste activated sludge (WAS) and EWAS were applied to agricultural soil and potting mix, and the resulting aqueous samples were analyzed to determine nitrogen, phosphorous, and carbon adsorption and release behaviors. Commercial inorganic and natural fertilizers were utilized for comparison. X‐ray absorption near‐edge structure (XANES) spectroscopy was performed to characterize phosphorus speciation in the solid phases of the novel fertilizers. Results indicated that EWAS and WAS samples released less total nitrogen into solution than other treatments due to organoclay complexation of biomolecules and differences in the solubility of the nitrogen species. Samples containing EWAS released a higher percentage of organic and total carbon into solution due to the deformation of the structure of the organic matter by the alkaline electrolysis process. The solubility of nitrogen and carbon in the sludge was increased by the electrochemical process. Solid‐phase phosphorus in EWAS and WAS was characterized by XANES analysis as struvite, which is a novel finding with important implications for P management from waste‐based fertilizers. These experimental findings suggest that fertilizing with EWAS could result in reduced runoff and improved soil health while facilitating domestic fertilizer production.
Past performance is no guarantee of future results†
Authors: Truitt Allison
Published: December 2024

A response to the promotional pack on Four Alternative Currencies and their Worlds.
Reduction of Basic Iron Ore Sinter under Blast Furnace Wall and Center‐Simulated Conditions in CO–CO2–H2–H2O–N2 Gas
Authors: Abdelrahim Ahmed , Iljana Mikko , Aula Matti , Fabritius Timo
Published: December 2024

This study examines how varying conditions at the center and wall of a blast furnace (BF) impact the reduction of iron ore sinter in a gas containing hydrogen and water vapor. Sinter samples are isothermally reduced at 700–1100 °C using a BF simulator to assess reduction rates and extent. Characterization techniques analyze the reduced samples’ mineralogical, physical, and microstructural changes. Results indicate that metallic iron formed at 700 °C in samples reduced under BF center conditions but is absent up to 900 °C in BF wall conditions. Metallic iron is initially formed at the periphery and propagated inward as temperature increased. The sinter's non‐homogeneous structure hinders uniform gas diffusion, with unfused iron ore content obstructing reducibility. The skeletal density of reduced samples correlated with the degree of reduction. The reduction of magnetite to metallic iron through wüstite is observed. Wüstite reducibility was better than calcium ferrite. No carbon deposition is observed in all testing conditions. Comparisons to acid iron ore pellets suggest charging the sinter to the BF center and pellets to the wall, with a recommendation to minimize unfused iron ore in the sinter charge for improved reducibility.
Effect of Ti Treatment on MnS Inclusion and Mechanical Property of a High‐Strength Sulfur‐Containing Steel
Authors: Gao Xiao‐yong , Jiao Ya‐xing , Zhu Tan‐hua , Li Yao‐qiang , Zhang Li‐feng
Published: December 2024

The effect of Ti treatment on MnS inclusions and mechanical properties of a high‐strength sulfur‐containing steel is systematically investigated. The inclusions are mainly composed of pure MnS, TiN–MnS composite inclusion, cuboidal pure TiN with sharp corner and Ti4C2S2 after Ti treatment. Ti treatment had a good refining effect on MnS inclusions. With the increase of Ti content, the number of pure MnS with elongated shape decreased, while the number of shorter TiN–MnS composite inclusions increased. When the Ti treatment is higher than 0.031 wt%, the number of pure TiN and Ti4C2S2 increases. With the increase in Ti content, the strength increases significantly and the elongation decreases slightly. The highest strength is obtained when the Ti content is 0.031 wt%. A novel mechanism of MnS shape control by Ti treatment is proposed. Ti treatment can be applied in other steels containing MnS inclusions to improve the mechanical property.