bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of thermal aging on the long‐term dynamic and stress relaxation behavior of glass‐fiber reinforced polypropylene composites
Authors: Yu Lichao , Yu Ying , Zhang Zhiyuan , Wang Wei , Chen Yuxi , Wang Ting , Wu Jiahao , Han Wanli
Published: June 2024

The increasing use of glass‐fiber reinforced polypropylene (GFPP) composites in a wide range of applications requiring long‐term service in challenging environments underscores the importance of its long‐term durability. This study aimed to investigate the effect of thermal aging on the long‐term dynamic durability and stress relaxation of GFPP composites. The time–temperature equivalence principle (TTSP) was used to assess the dynamic modulus at various temperatures and frequencies, as well as the relaxation modulus at different temperatures and relaxation times. To better understand long‐term durability behavior, the study also examined the impact of molecular structure on the durability of GFPP. Changes in chemical composition, crystallinity, melting point, and melt flow index of GFPP due to thermal aging were measured and analyzed using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and differential scanning calorimetry, respectively. The results revealed that oxidation led to a decrease in the crystallinity and molecular weight of GFPP. The destruction of GFPP's molecular structure due to oxidation resulted in reduced long‐term durability. While TTSP can predict the long‐term durability of GFPP for decades or even centuries, its application in predicting the long‐term durability of GFPP is more suitable for nonaging conditions.

Highlights

Thermal aging reduces glass‐fiber reinforced polypropylene (GFPP's) long‐term durability.

Time–temperature equivalence principle predicts GFPP durability under aging.

GFPP's activation energy drops with thermal aging.

Long‐term GFPP behavior aligns with Williams–Landel–Ferry model.

Predictive models refine understanding of GFPP longevity.
Docosahexaenoic acid ameliorates autistic‐like behaviors by inhibiting oxidative stress and inflammatory response in neonatal maternal separation rats
Authors: Xu Boqing , Yuan Hao , Li Xiaohuan , Yu Qingyang , Dai Chunfang , Dong Zhifang
Published: June 2024

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a pervasive neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by impaired social interactions and communication, repetitive, or stereotyped behavior. Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), an essential polyunsaturated fatty acid, has been demonstrated to exert anti‐oxidative stress and anti‐inflammatory properties, while also promoting myelin development and neural differentiation and development. However, it remains uncertain whether DHA can ameliorate autistic‐like behaviors, and if so, the underlying mechanisms are still unclear. Here, we established a neonatal maternal separation (NMS) rat model and treated it with DHA (80 mg/kg/day, i.p.). The results showed DHA treatment significantly alleviated autism‐like behaviors in the NMS rats during their juvenile period. Subsequently, we employed network pharmacology analysis and molecular docking methods to screen potential targets of DHA in ASD therapy. Through Gene Ontology, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes, and Wikipedia enrichment analysis, we identified anti‐oxidative stress, anti‐inflammatory and JNK signaling pathway that might be associated with DHA‐mediated improvement of autistic‐like behaviors. Furthermore, western blotting assays showed DHA significantly downregulated the expression levels of p‐JNK and c‐JUN, while upregulating the expression levels of NRF2, HO‐1, SOD1, and CAT. In addition, enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay results showed DHA effectively reduced the production of pro‐inflammatory factors, such as TNF‐α, IL‐6, and IL‐1β. Collectively, our study predicted and validated that DHA exhibits the potential to improve autistic‐like behaviors induced by NMS in rats by suppressing JNK activation and inhibiting oxidative stress and inflammatory response. These findings suggest that DHA may be a potential therapeutic agent for the treatment of ASD.
Benefits and limits of decellularization on mass‐spectrometry‐based extracellular matrix proteome analysis of mouse kidney
Authors: Frattini Teresa , Devos Hanne , Makridakis Manousos , Roubelakis Maria G. , Latosinska Agnieszka , Mischak Harald , Schanstra Joost P. , Vlahou Antonia , Saulnier‐Blache Jean‐Sébastien
Published: June 2024

The extracellular matrix (ECM) is composed of collagens, ECM glycoproteins, and proteoglycans (also named core matrisome proteins) that are critical for tissue structure and function, and matrisome‐associated proteins that balance the production and degradation of the ECM proteins. The identification and quantification of core matrisome proteins using mass spectrometry is often hindered by their low abundance and their propensity to form macromolecular insoluble structures. In this study, we aimed to investigate the added value of decellularization in identifying and quantifying core matrisome proteins in mouse kidney. The decellularization strategy combined freeze‐thaw cycles and sodium dodecyl sulphate treatment. We found that decellularization preserved 95% of the core matrisome proteins detected in non‐decellularized kidney and revealed few additional ones. Decellularization also led to an average of 59 times enrichment of 96% of the core matrisome proteins as the result of the successful removal of cellular and matrisome‐associated proteins. However, the enrichment varied greatly among core matrisome proteins, resulting in a misrepresentation of the native ECM composition in decellularized kidney. This should be brought to the attention of the matrisome research community, as it highlights the need for caution when interpreting proteomic data obtained from a decellularized organ.
Active ingredient identification and purification of organosilicon spray adjuvant and its uptake and translocation in rice (Oryza sativa L.)
Authors: Lin Qiao , Mou Lianhong , Ou Guipeng , Wu Guangbin , Ren Yonggang , Chen Zhibo , Lu Ping , Zhang Yuping
Published: June 2024

The assessment of residue, absorption, conduction, and degradation of agricultural organosilicon surfactants in the environment is hindered by the lack of information on active ingredients and corresponding quantitative standards for organosilicon spray adjuvants. The spray adjuvant ‘Jiexiaoli,’ a primary organosilicon spray agent in China, was identified as hydroxy (polyethylene) propyl‐heptamethyl trisiloxane (TSS‐H) with 3–15 ethoxy (EO) groups. Purification of TSS‐H was achieved through semi‐preparative separation using high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), resulting in TSS‐H purity exceeding 96%. An accurate residual detection method for nine oligomers (4–12 EO) of TSS‐H in rice roots, stems, leaves, and culture solution samples was developed using HPLC tandem high‐resolution mass spectrometry (HPLC‐HRMS). Recoveries for nine oligomers of TSS‐H in the four matrices ranged from 80.22% to 104.01%. Foliar application experiments demonstrated that TSS‐H did not transfer from the upper to the lower parts of the rice plant. The half‐lives of each oligomer (4–12 EO) in leaves were less than 3.21 days. Root application experiments revealed a root concentration factor (RCF) ranging from 0.20 to 0.56, a biological enrichment factor (BCF) ranging from 0.36 to 0.68, a transpiration factor (TSCF) ranging from 0.069 to 0.086, and a transport factor (TF) ranging from 0.08 to 0.43. These results indicated that TSS‐H could be absorbed by rice roots and conducted to the above‐ground parts of rice plants. This study fills the data gap in the environmental risk and food safety assessment of agricultural silicone spray adjuvants. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Perfect Spin Filtering, Giant Magnetoresistance, and Rectification Behavior Induced by V‐Doped Zigzag Graphene Nanoribbons
Authors: Wang Rigao , Lu Wanyu , Shuang Feng , She Duan
Published: June 2024

Employing the constructs of density functional theory (DFT) and the Nonequilibrium Green's Function (NEGF), the investigation extensively explores the electronic and transport properties of zigzag graphene nanoribbons (ZGNRs) doped with vanadium (V). Notably, this inquiry unveils that strategic doping can transform V‐doped ZGNRs into spintronic nanodevices with distinctive transport attributes. Initially, the simulations showcase remarkably high spin‐filtering efficiencies (SFEs) at certain bias voltages. Furthermore, a giant magnetoresistance (GMR) peaking at 6.87 10 is detected. In conclusion, the examination discerns a spin rectifier that exhibits a significant rectification ratio (RR) of 9.62 10. This research delineates a viable trajectory for the refinement of high‐performance spintronics in ZGNRs via vanadium doping. The implications of this study indicate that the model harbors considerable promise for application in miniature spintronic devices.
Discrete‐Modulated Continuous‐Variable Quantum Key Distribution in Satellite‐to‐Ground Communication
Authors: Li Shi‐Gen , Li Chen‐Long , Liu Wen‐Bo , Yin Hua‐Lei , Chen Zeng‐Bing
Published: June 2024

Satellite‐to‐ground quantum communication constitutes the cornerstone of the global quantum network, heralding the advent of the future of quantum information. Continuous‐variable quantum key distribution is a strong candidate for the space‐ground quantum communication due to its simplicity, stability, and ease of implementation, especially for the robustness of space background light noise. Recently, the discrete‐modulated continuous‐variable protocol has garnered increased attention, owing to its lower implementation requirements, acceptable security key rate, and pronounced compatibility with extant infrastructures. Here, key rates are derived for discrete‐modulated continuous‐variable quantum key distribution protocols in free‐space channel environments across various conditions through numerical simulation, revealing the viability of its application in satellite‐to‐ground communication.
Topological Phase and Tunable Quantum State Transfer of Su–Schrieffer–Heeger Chain with an Embedded Quantum Ring
Authors: Zhang Xin‐Yue , Yan Yu , Zheng Li‐Na , Zhang Zhi‐Xu , Zhong Li‐Nan , Zhang Shou , Wang Hong‐Fu
Published: June 2024

An extended Su–Schrieffer–Heeger (SSH) model consisting of an SSH chain with an embedded quantum ring (QR) is investigated. In the case of two SSH chains with a symmetric distribution with respect to QR, by calculating the real‐space winding number and energy spectrum, the hopping amplitude‐induced topological phase is discovered. The probability distributions of gap states and the relationship between energy and magnetic flux prove the existence of the Aharonov–Bohm effect in the QR. Moreover, in the case of asymmetric distribution, the model possesses a zero‐energy mode within the energy gap, and it is found that it can realize quantum state transfer. By adjusting the connection site between the right SSH chain and QR, the direction of the output port can be flexibly engineered. Furthermore, it is shown that high‐fidelity quantum state transfer can still be achieved with the increasing of the system size. The tunable quantum state transfer based on the zero‐energy mode can be equivalent to a topological tunable directional switch with properties of non‐directional transfer. This work provides an approach for studying topological phase transition and tunable topological devices in an SSH chain with an embedded QR.
Study on the impurity profiles of cloxacillin and flucloxacillin based on liquid chromatography tandem ion trap/time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry
Authors: Xu Bingyong , Gao Jiarui , Wang Jian , Wang Fan
Published: June 2024

Rationale

Cloxacillin and flucloxacillin are prone to degradation and polymerization in humid and hot environments, and their polymers have long been recognized to trigger allergic manifestations. A series of the degradation and polymerized impurities in cloxacillin and flucloxacillin were separated and characterized to ensure safe use of these drugs by the public.

Methods

By studying the chromatographic behavior of the degradation impurities and polymerized impurities in reversed‐phase high‐performance liquid chromatography (RP‐HPLC) gradient elution, the impurities in cloxacillin and flucloxacillin were effectively separated and eluted. RP‐HPLC tandem ion trap/time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (MS) was applied to characterize the structures of unknown impurities eluted from the RP‐HPLC methods for cloxacillin and flucloxacillin. The mechanisms of formation of the impurities in cloxacillin and flucloxacillin were also investigated.

Results

The structures of 10 unknown impurities in cloxacillin and 8 unknown impurities in flucloxacillin were elucidated based on the high‐resolution MSn data at positive and negative modes, respectively. Six polymerized impurities were found and characterized, of which three were from the polymerization of cloxacillin and three were from the polymerization of flucloxacillin.

Conclusions

The study on the impurity profiles of cloxacillin and flucloxacillin provided a scientific basis for improving their production processes and quality control.
Lipid extraction alters amino acid composition and bulk, but not amino acid, carbon and nitrogen isotope values
Authors: McMahon Kelton W.
Published: June 2024

Rationale

Concerns exist over observed shifts in value and variance of nitrogen isotopes following physicochemical extraction of lipids from organic matter. The mechanisms behind these apparent changes in bulk tissue δ15N values are not fully understood yet have major implications for analytical costs and integrity of data interpretations.

Methods

Changes in proximate analysis, amino acid composition, C:N ratios, bulk tissue and amino acid δ13C and δ15N values, and resulting isotope‐based food web metrics were compared between lipid‐intact and lipid‐extracted muscle tissue of fishes spanning <1% to >20% muscle fat content to identify mechanisms of nitrogen isotope fractionation associated with physicochemical lipid extraction.

Results

Bulk δ13C and δ15N values increased and %N, C:N ratios and crude protein content decreased following lipid extraction. Resulting bulk isotope niche spacing and overlap varied significantly between lipid‐intact and lipid‐extracted tissues. While amino acid composition significantly changed during lipid extraction, particularly for lipid‐associated amino acids (e.g., Glu, Lys, Ser), individual amino acid δ13C and δ15N values, and their associated compound‐specific isotope analysis of amino acids (CSIA‐AA)‐based food web metrics, did not.

Conclusions

Physicochemical lipid extraction caused significant tissue composition changes (e.g., leaching of amino acids and 15N‐deplete nitrogenous waste) that affected δ13C and δ15N values and tissue %C and %N beyond simply removing lipids. However, lipid extraction did not alter individual amino acid δ13C or δ15N values or their associated CSIA‐AA‐based food web metrics.
Analysis of green total factor productivity in China's forestry industry: Technological, organizational, and environmental framework for sustainable economic development
Authors: Yan Jiale , Işık Cem , Ongan Serdar , Pinzon Stefania , Tillaguango Brayan
Published: June 2024

As a green industry, forestry plays a pivotal role in economic and ecological development. Green Total Factor Productivity (GTFP) is a crucial indicator of forestry progress. This paper employs the Non‐Radial Distance Function (NDDF) model to measure forestry GTFP in forestry comprehensively. Additionally, it utilizes fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) to explore pathways for enhancing forestry GTFP across technological, organizational, and environmental (TOE) dimensions. The study reveals the following outcomes: Government financial support and six additional antecedent conditions offer three distinct avenues to boost forestry GTFP in forestry. Regional disparities emerge, with technology‐driven pathways predominantly found in eastern provinces, dual‐driven routes centered on average forest land size and forestry carbon sinks (FCS) taking precedence in central provinces, and dual‐driven paths driven by government support and FCS coming to the forefront in western provinces. Under specific circumstances, government financial support and foreign investment exhibit potential interchangeability, facilitating the attainment of elevated forestry GTFP in forestry. However, a constraint arises from operating entities' low average forest land size. Ultimately, this study equips policymakers with a nuanced understanding of the factors shaping forestry GTFP in forestry, enabling them to craft compelling, regionally tailored policies that foster adaptability and contribute to the sustainable development of the forestry sector, recognizing that a one‐size‐fits‐all approach may not be suitable for all regions.
Bayesian mixture modelling with ranked set samples
Authors: Alvandi Amirhossein , Omidvar Sedigheh , Hatefi Armin , Jafari Jozani Mohammad , Ozturk Omer , Nematollahi Nader
Published: June 2024

We consider the Bayesian estimation of the parameters of a finite mixture model from independent order statistics arising from imperfect ranked set sampling designs. As a cost‐effective method, ranked set sampling enables us to incorporate easily attainable characteristics, as ranking information, into data collection and Bayesian estimation. To handle the special structure of the ranked set samples, we develop a Bayesian estimation approach exploiting the Expectation‐Maximization (EM) algorithm in estimating the ranking parameters and Metropolis within Gibbs Sampling to estimate the parameters of the underlying mixture model. Our findings show that the proposed RSS‐based Bayesian estimation method outperforms the commonly used Bayesian counterpart using simple random sampling. The developed method is finally applied to estimate the bone disorder status of women aged 50 and older.
Sensitivity analysis for principal ignorability violation in estimating complier and noncomplier average causal effects
Authors: Nguyen Trang Quynh , Stuart Elizabeth A. , Scharfstein Daniel O. , Ogburn Elizabeth L.
Published: June 2024

An important strategy for identifying principal causal effects (popular estimands in settings with noncompliance) is to invoke the principal ignorability (PI) assumption. As PI is untestable, it is important to gauge how sensitive effect estimates are to its violation. We focus on this task for the common one‐sided noncompliance setting where there are two principal strata, compliers and noncompliers. Under PI, compliers and noncompliers share the same outcome‐mean‐given‐covariates function under the control condition. For sensitivity analysis, we allow this function to differ between compliers and noncompliers in several ways, indexed by an odds ratio, a generalized odds ratio, a mean ratio, or a standardized mean difference sensitivity parameter. We tailor sensitivity analysis techniques (with any sensitivity parameter choice) to several types of PI‐based main analysis methods, including outcome regression, influence function (IF) based and weighting methods. We discuss range selection for the sensitivity parameter. We illustrate the sensitivity analyses with several outcome types from the JOBS II study. This application estimates nuisance functions parametrically – for simplicity and accessibility. In addition, we establish rate conditions on nonparametric nuisance estimation for IF‐based estimators to be asymptotically normal – with a view to inform nonparametric inference.
Diamond with Unexpected Multi‐Scale Pores
Authors: Li Shuaiqi , Guo Ruiang , Li Qian , Zhang Ruike , Zhang Jiawei
Published: June 2024

Following the diverse structural characteristics and primary usage, diamond products include nano‐polycrystalline diamond (NPD), micron‐polycrystalline diamond (MPD), diamond film, porous diamond, and diamond wire drawing die. Among them, porous diamond possesses a distinctive combination of flexible surface functionality and a remarkably high surface area‐to‐volume ratio (SA/V) compared to traditional bulk materials, which contributes to cross‐cutting applications in catalysis, adsorption, and electrochemistry while retaining the superior traits of diamond, particularly its exceptional chemical inertia. To avoid etching or microwave plasma chemical vapor deposition (MPCVD) techniques, this study proposes a high‐temperature and high‐pressure method based on a soluble skeleton (HPHT‐ss) as an efficient and inexpensive approach for synthesizing millimeter‐level porous diamonds. Interestingly, porous diamond synthesized by HPHT‐ss exhibits multiscale pores distributed as macropores (average 75 µm) and mesopores (average 19 nm), which gives it a unique feature compared with other methods. Pertinent temperature‐pressure conditions, HPHT‐ss synthesis, and the formation mechanism of porous diamonds are also thoroughly discussed.
The Unique Edge Reconstructions and Related Edgeless Properties of Mono‐ and Few‐Layered α‐Phase Puckered 2D Materials
Authors: Xia Mingyue , Chang Yuan , Yu Zhigen , Liu Hongsheng , Zhou Si , Zhao Jijun , Gao Junfeng
Published: June 2024

The edge reconstruction of two‐dimensional (2D) materials is significant for the stability, properties, and applications. Significant progress has been made in understanding the edge reconstruction of 2D materials. Herein, an overview of the latest theoretical and experimental advances on edge reconstruction of α‐phase phosphorene nanoribbon and IV–VI group binary compounds MX (M = Ge, Sn; X = S, Se), focusing on the mechanism, stability, physical, and chemical properties of the edge reconstructions is provided. The status, challenges, and contradictions in experiments and theory are addressed and the progress in edge reconstruction of α‐phase puckered 2D materials as well as the effects of edge reconstruction on physicochemical properties are systematically introduced. A novel tube‐like edge reconstruction is suggested to be universal for α‐phase puckered monolayers. While ZZ(U) edge can be another important reconstruction in bilayer. Beyond the review, the edge structures of phosphorene have odd–even layered oscillations are also proposed. The edge terminations can affect the exfoliation mechanism and electronic, transport properties. Interesting, unique U‐edge, which has been verified by experiment, exhibits nearly edgeless electronic and thermal transport, which is beneficial for ultrafast microelectronics.
Aspekte der bautechnischen Prüfung von Membrankonstruktionen
Authors: Beck Patrick T. J. , Seiler Josef , Bißwurm Axel
Published: June 2024

Membrankonstruktionen repräsentieren eine besondere Bauweise, die sich deutlich von denen aus konventionellen Baustoffen wie z. B. Stahl unterscheiden. Die filigranen, leichten und flexiblen Membranwerkstoffe, die ausschließlich auf Zug beansprucht werden können, führen zu einer bionischen, organisch wirkenden Formensprache. Im Gegensatz zur Gestaltung mit etablierten Baustoffen sind die Formen der Membrankonstruktionen jedoch nicht frei gestaltbar, sondern das Resultat eines mechanischen Formfindungsprozesses. Diese Charakteristika von Membrankonstruktionen stellen besondere Herausforderungen an alle am Bau ebendieser Beteiligten: von der Bauherrschaft über den Architekten und Tragwerksplaner bis hin zu den Konfektionären sowie den Bauausführenden und insbesondere den Prüfingenieuren. Der vorliegende Beitrag behandelt Aspekte der bautechnischen Prüfung von Membrankonstruktionen, die von Konstruktionen aus üblichen Baustoffen abweichen. Er stellt Spezifika dieser Bauweise und deren Berücksichtigung in der Prüfung dar und gibt einen Überblick über die für die bautechnische Prüfung erforderlichen Unterlagen. Anhand von Beispielen sollen die Komplexität und die spezifischen Anforderungen, die mit der bautechnischen Prüfung von Membrankonstruktionen verbunden sind, verdeutlicht und verständlich gemacht werden.
GSK‐3β/Notch‐1 Activation Promotes Radiation‐Induced Renal Damage: The Role of Gallic Acid in Mitigation of Nephrotoxicity
Authors: Abdel‐Naby Doaa H. , El‐Sheikh Marwa M. , Abd El‐Rahman Sahar S. , El‐Hamoly Tarek
Published: June 2024

Despite the therapeutic advances in treating malignancies, the efficient radiotherapeutic approaches with deprived adverse reactions still represent a potential clinical inquiry. The current study aims to elucidate the role of gallic acid (GA) in modifying the hazardous renal cytotoxicity induced by acute exposure to radiation. The MTT test was used to evaluate the viability of Vero cells exposed to 2 Gy gamma radiation with or without incubation of GA. In an in vivo model, male Wistar rats were divided into four experimental groups (n = 6): Control, Irradiated (IRR, 5 Gy), GA (100 mg/kg, i.p.) + IRR, and Glycogen synthase kinase inhibitor (GSKI, 3 mg/kg, i.p.) + IRR. Based on the MTT toxicity assay, from 0 and up to 5 μM dosages of GA did not demonstrate any cytotoxicity to Vero cells. The optimal GA dose that could protect the cells from radiation was 5 μM. Furthermore, GA exerted a protective effect from gamma radiation on renal tissue as indicated by corrected renal functions, decreased LDH level in serum, and balanced oxidative status, which is indicated by decreased tissue contents of NOx and TBARS with a significant increase of reduced GSH. These outcomes were inferred by the upregulation of nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2) expression. The overall molecular impact of radiation in damaging the renal tissue may be explained by modifying the upstream AKT activity and its downstream targets GSK‐3β/Notch‐1. Here, we concluded that the anticipated adverse reaction in the course of radiation exposure could be protected by daily administration of GA.
Discrepancies between self‐ and proxy‐rated quality of life in people living with dementia
Authors: Buchholz Maresa , Engel Lidia , Kleinke Fabian , Mühlichen Franka , Pfaff Michelle , Platen Moritz , Rädke Anika , Scharf Annelie , Weber Niklas , van den Berg Neeltje , Hoffmann Wolfgang , Michalowsky Bernhard
Published: June 2024

INTRODUCTION

The aim of this study was to analyze discrepancies between self‐ and proxy‐rated health‐related quality of life (HRQoL), measured with the EuroQol 5 Dimension 5 Level survey (EQ‐5D‐5L), in people living with dementia (PlwD) and their caregivers on an individual response level.

METHODS

EQ‐5D‐5L, sociodemographic and clinical data were obtained from baseline data of n = 174 dyads of a cluster‐randomized, controlled intervention trial. Self‐ and proxy‐rated EQ‐5D‐5L health profiles were evaluated in terms of response distribution and agreement (weighted Kappa), and discrepancies in individual dimension level were analyzed using the Paretian Classification of Health Change (PCHC) as well as the presence and degree of inconsistencies between ratings.

RESULTS

PlwD had a mean age of 80.1, nearly the half were female and 82.3% were mildly to moderately cognitively impaired. PlwD reported a higher utility index than caregiver proxies (mean 0.75 vs. 0.68, 83% of PlwD > 0.5). According to the PCHC and inconsistency approach, 95% of PlwD rated their health differently compared to proxies; 66% with divergent responses in at least three EQ‐5D‐5L dimensions. Nine dyads (5%) showed identical ratings. Discrepancies of one higher or lower EQ‐5D‐5L response represented the most frequent discrepancy (35.4%). Caregivers were two times more likely to report “moderate problems,” representing the middle of the 5‐point Likert scale. Usual activities had the lowest agreement between ratings (weighted kappa = 0.23). In PlwD reporting no or some problems in EQ‐5D‐5L‐dimensions, proxies were more likely to report more problems and vice versa, especially in the more observable dimension usual activities and less likely in the less observable domains pain/discomfort and anxiety/depression.

DISCUSSION

The central tendency bias observed in proxy‐ratings could be associated with assessment uncertainties, resulting in an underestimation (overestimation) in PlwD reporting better (worse) health. This diverging trend extends the knowledge from previous studies and underlines the need for more methodological research in this area.

Highlights

People living with dementia (PlwD) rate their health differently than proxies.

Proxy‐ratings over‐ or underestimate PlwD health when self‐ratings are low or high.

Proxies indicate a possible central tendency bias.

Further research is needed to understand influencing factors.
In vitro antibacterial activity of Bersama abyssinica Fresen crude extract against representative Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative bacterial isolates
Authors: Mossie Tesfa
Published: June 2024

Background

Bersama abyssinica Fresen is a plant that is used in folk medicine for the treatment of mastitis and other infectious diseases.

Obiective

The antibacterial activity of methanol crude extract of plant was evaluated against three common bacterial pathogens, including Gram positive (Staphylococcus aureus) and Gram negative (Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa).

Methods

The antibacterial activities and minimum inhibitory concentration of B. abyssinica crude extracts were evaluated using agar‐well diffusion and broth dilution methods according to the National Committee for Clinical Laboratory Standards (NCCLS).

Results

A significant difference in the antibacterial activity of crude extracts was observed among different levels of concentration against tested isolates. A higher mean inhibition zone diameter was recorded in E. coli (29.2 ± 1.5 mm), followed by S. aureus (27.8 ± 1.1 mm) and P. aeruginosa (18.0 ± 0.7 mm) at a concentration of 100 mg/mL. The antibacterial activity of crude plant extract at 100 mg/mL was comparable with that of a standard antibiotic (27.6 ± 2.6) against S. aureus and E. coli isolates. The findings indicated that bacterial growth inhibition increased as the concentration of the crude extracts increased. E. coli and S. aureus isolates showed significantly higher susceptibilities to crude extracts than P. aeruginosa at all concentrations. The minimum inhibitory concentrations of extracts against S. aureus, E. coli and P. aeruginosa isolates were 0.78 mg/mL, 1.56 mg/mL and 1.56 mg/mL, respectively.

Conclusions

All tested pathogenic bacterial species were susceptible to plant leaf extract and broad‐spectrum activity against Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative bacteria. The study recommends further fractionation of the B. abyssinica plant that contributes to its antibacterial activity and understands the mode of action of this plant against bacteria and other microbes.
Improving diagnosis of early complications (<1 week) through continuous vital sign monitoring following oncological gastrointestinal surgical procedures
Authors: Lockhorst Elize W. , van Noordenne Milicia , Klouwens Linda , Govaert Klaas M. , de Bruijn Eva , Verhoef Cornelis , Gobardhan Paul D. , Schreinemakers Jennifer M. J.
Published: June 2024

Background

Patients undergoing major oncological abdominal surgery are prone to postoperative complications, making early recognition crucial. Clinical deterioration is often preceded by changes in vital signs, which are typically measured thrice a day by a nurse. However, intermittent measurements may delay recognizing clinical deterioration. Continuous vital parameter monitoring may lead to earlier recognition and management of complications and reduce nursing workload.

Objective

To compare vital parameter measurements between ward nurses and a wireless continuous monitoring system (Sensium® wireless patch) and assess whether this patch can detect clinical deterioration earlier in patients with complications in the first postoperative week.

Methods

Vital parameters (heart rate, respiratory rate, and temperature) were collected in patients undergoing an oncological resection of the liver, colorectal, or pancreas. Sensium® patch measurements were compared to nurses' measurements to assess the percentages of discordant measurements. In patients with complications in the first postoperative week, time discrepancies between nurses and Sensium® patch measurements were identified in cases of clinical deterioration (respiratory rate ≥15/min, heart rate ≥100/min, and temperature ≥38°C).

Results

Among 227 patients, 22% of the patients experienced complications. Nurse and Sensium® measurements were discrepant in 586/2272 measurements (26%). In 506/586 discrepancies (86%), this was due to the respiratory rate (difference ≥4/min). Compared to nurses, the Sensium® patch detected an elevated respiratory rate 14 h earlier and heart rate 2 h earlier within complications in the first postoperative week. For temperature, no difference was observed.

Conclusion

Continuous monitoring with the Sensium® wireless patch holds promise for earlier recognition of complications in patients who underwent major oncological abdominal surgery.
Sex differences in altmetric attention scores and traditional impact metrics of top‐cited general surgery literature: Cracks in the ceiling?
Authors: Waqar Usama , Martins Russell Seth , Siddiqui Ayra , Waheed Ayesha Akbar , Ahmed Abdullah , Widad Zara , Maqbool Baila , Wasif Nabil
Published: June 2024

Background

Sex disparities have previously been identified in surgical academia. This study examines sex differences in the top‐cited contemporary general surgery articles and compares Altimetric Attention Score (AAS) and other impact metrics between male and female corresponding authors (CAs).

Methods

We conducted a bibliometric analysis of the 100 most cited articles published between 2019 and 2021 in each of the top 10 general surgery journals based on the 2021 Journal Impact Factor. Impact metrics included AAS, citation count, and H‐index of the CA. We used multivariable regression analyses to investigate whether the sex of the CA or first author (FA) was independently associated with AAS and citation count.

Results

Among 1000 articles, 23.1% had female CAs and 27.4% female FAs. Female CA articles had higher AAS (13.0 [2.0–63.0] vs. 8.0 [1.0–28.5]; p < 0.001) and lower H‐indices (24.0 [11.0–45.0] vs. 31.0 [17.0–50.0]; p = 0.015). Although median citation count did not differ by CA sex, articles with Level 1 evidence and a female CA were cited more often (35.5 [24.0–85.0] vs. 25.0 [16.0 vs. 46.0]; p < 0.05). In multivariable regression, female CA articles had higher AAS (OR: 1.002 [95% CI: 1.001–1.004]) and lower H‐index (OR: 0.987 [95% CI: 0.977–0.997]).

Conclusion

Despite having similar citation counts, articles authored by female CAs exhibit higher AAS scores compared to those authored by their male counterparts. While it is heartening that research authored by female surgeons achieves significant visibility, it remains to be understood how this translates into academic impact and scholarly recognition.
Application of some calibration strategies in comparison to determine Cr, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, and Pb in contaminated plants by wavelength dispersive x‐ray fluorescence
Authors: Chuparina Elena V. , Belogolova Galina A. , Baenguev Boris A. , Sokolnikova Julia V. , Zarubina Olga V.
Published: June 2024

The study of nonstandard samples wherein their element compositions differ from those of routine samples motivates analysts to look for new methodological approaches. To determine the high concentrations of Cr, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, and Pb in polluted plants, the authors applied wavelength dispersive x‐ray fluorescence (WDXRF), using three calibration strategies in comparison. The following sets of calibration samples were tested: available plant and biological CRMs; synthetic samples; and “house reference materials” (HRMs). The synthetic samples were prepared, adding small portions of the loose sediment CRMs to a plant CRM. The polluted plant samples, analyzed by atomic absorption spectrometry and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, were used as HRMs to construct the calibration curves and validate XRF results. It was ascertained that all three calibration strategies can be used to quantify above elements in contaminated plants, providing different precision of WDXRF results. The calibration procedure with HRMs has provided the least errors in the element determinations. Calibration with synthetic samples causes larger errors due to some differences in chemical compositions between calibration and analyzed samples as well as due to probable errors in the synthetic sample preparation. The calibration with plant and biological samples is of limited applicability in XRF of contaminated plants by reason of narrow content ranges of some elements.
Solar-Based Energy Harvesting and Low-Power Wireless Networks
Authors: Hörmann Leander B. , Karoliny Julian , Peterseil Philipp
Published: June 2024

In modern industrial applications, machines and facilities, more and more sensors are used to control and optimise the processes. To be flexible and reduce cost, wireless sensors can be used in a broad range of applications. To prevent regular battery replacement, there is the possibility to supply wireless sensors by energy harvesting. In this chapter, we investigate the possibility to use solar-based energy harvesting to supply wireless sensors. For this, we consider four wireless network protocols and evaluate the power consumption using a simple sensor use case with different communication parameters. We further measure how much power can actually be harvested in a typical office environment with natural light. To provide realistic results, different sensor locations as well as seasonal changes are considered. The evaluations are combined to understand what size of solar cell is needed to supply the considered wireless protocols with different configurations.
Das Lebensende in der (heutigen) Gesellschaft
Authors: Stadelmann Karin A.
Published: June 2024

Wie Menschen mit dem Sterben und dem Tod umgehen, ist immer ein Spiegelbild der gesellschaftlichen Verhältnisse. Es erstaunt nicht, dass auch in der vorliegenden Arbeit auf den gesellschaftlichen Diskurs rund um das Lebensende eingegangen wird, denn gerade die Soziale Arbeit gilt als eine Profession, welche ihr Wirken aus den gesellschaftlichen Spannungen und Problemlagen direkt bezieht und darauf auch reagiert. In Anlehnung an Roth (1960, zit. nach Krüger, 2017, S. 40) bedeutet das, dass die Soziale Arbeit sich «in der theoretischen Beschreibung ihrer Tätigkeiten, ihrer Funktionen, ihrer Handlungsfelder und Institutionen auf sozialwissenschaftliche Analysen der Gesellschaft» stützt.
Diskussion der Ergebnisse: Soziale Arbeit als Spezialistin für das Unbekannte
Authors: Stadelmann Karin A.
Published: June 2024

In diesem Kapitel werden die Interpretation sowie die Diskussion der empirisch erhobenen und mittels rekonstruktiver Methode analysierten Daten geleistet. Dabei liegt der Fokus auf dem Verdichten der Ergebnisse zum inkorporierten Erfahrungswissen von Seiten der Fachpersonen in der Palliative Care. Die aus dem Datenmaterial gewonnenen Begründungen und Orientierungsmuster werden nun nach dem professionstheoretischen Zugang bzw. dem Konglomerat aus strukturtheoretischer (Oevermann, 2000;2009) und interaktionistischer (Schütze, 2014/2021) Positionierung, sowie in Ansätzen mit einer reflexiv-habitueller Positionierung (Knoll, 2010) verdichtet.
Veneziano and Shapiro-Virasoro amplitudes of arbitrarily excited strings
Authors: Firrotta Maurizio
Published: June 2024

Abstract

We extend the Veneziano and Shapiro-Virasoro amplitudes to four arbitrarily excited states in bosonic string theory. We use the formalism of coherent string states based on the Di Vecchia-Del Giudice-Fubini construction. Within the same formalism, we also analyze the three string scattering finding the covariant version of the three reggeon interaction. Then studying the factorization properties of the extended four string scattering amplitudes we identify the covariant version of the three string interaction. Finally we obtain generalized Kawai-Lewellen-Tye relations connecting the scattering of four open and closed arbitrarily excited states.
Continental and oceanic AAM contributions to Chandler Wobble with the amplitude attenuation from 2012 to 2022
Authors: Xu Xue-Qing , Fang Ming , Zhou Yong-Hong , Liao Xin-Hao
Published: June 2024

We reconstructed the Chandler Wobble (CW) from 1962 to 2022 by combining the Eigen-oscillator excited by geophysical fluids of atmospheric and oceanic angular momentums (AAM and OAM). The mass and motion terms for the AAM are further divided with respect to the land and ocean domains. Particular attention is placed on the time span from 2012 to 2022 in relation to the observable reduction in the amplitude of the CW. Our research indicates that the main contributor to the CW induced by AAM is the mass term (i.e., the pressure variations over land). Moreover, the phase of the AAM-induced CW remains relatively stable during the interval of 1962–2022. In contrast, the phase of the OAM-induced CW exhibits a periodic variation with a cycle of approximately 20 years. This cyclic variation would modulate the overall amplitude of the CW. The noticeable amplitude deduction over the past ten years can be attributed to the evolution of the CW driven by AAM and OAM, toward a state of cancellation. These findings further reveal that the variation in the phase difference between the CW forced by AAM and OAM, may be indicative of changes in the interaction between the solid Earth, atmosphere, and ocean.
Classification of anisotropic local Hardy spaces and inhomogeneous Triebel–Lizorkin spaces
Authors: van Velthoven Jordy Timo , Voigtlaender Felix
Published: June 2024

This paper provides a characterization of when two expansive matrices yield the same anisotropic local Hardy and inhomogeneous Triebel–Lizorkin spaces. The characterization is in terms of the coarse equivalence of certain quasi-norms associated to the matrices. For nondiagonal matrices, these conditions are strictly weaker than those classifying the coincidence of the corresponding homogeneous function spaces. The obtained results complete the classification of anisotropic Besov and Triebel–Lizorkin spaces associated to general expansive matrices.
UVB-Aged Microplastics and Cellular Damage: An in Vitro Study
Authors: La Maestra Sebastiano , Benvenuti Mirko , Alberti Stefano , Ferrea Linda , D’Agostini Francesco
Published: June 2024

Plastics are synthetic organic compounds whose widespread use generates enormous waste. Different processes, such as mechanical abrasion, microbiological activity, and UVB irradiation, can fragment the plastic material and generate microplastics (MPs). MPs are ubiquitous, and various organisms, including humans, can ingest or inhale them, with potential adverse health effects. The differences between UV-aged and virgin particles were studied to evaluate the genotoxic damage and oxidative stress induced by polystyrene MPs with 1 and 5 µm sizes on the monocyte-like cell line (THP-1). Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and Ζ-potential measurements were used to characterise MP particles after UVB exposure. Cells exposed to MPs show a widespread change in the cellular environment with the generation of reactive oxidative species (ROS), as indicated by the increased malondialdehyde level. The occurrence of genotoxic damage is correlated to the smaller size and ageing state of the MPs. The biochemical and genomic alterations observed in this in vitro study suggest that MPs, ubiquitous pollutants, following natural degradation and oxidation processes can cause various adverse effects on the health of the exposed population, making it necessary to carry out further studies to better define the real risk.
Bacteriocins attenuate Listeria monocytogenes–induced intestinal barrier dysfunction and inflammatory response
Authors: Wang Zhao , Du Jing , Ma Wenyu , Diao Xinjie , Liu Qi , Liu Guorong
Published: June 2024

Bacteriocins have the potential to effectively improve food-borne infections or gastrointestinal diseases and hold promise as viable alternatives to antibiotics. This study aimed to explore the antibacterial activity of three bacteriocins (nisin, enterocin Gr17, and plantaricin RX-8) and their ability to attenuate intestinal barrier dysfunction and inflammatory responses induced by Listeria monocytogenes, respectively. Bacteriocins have shown excellent antibacterial activity against L. monocytogenes without causing any cytotoxicity. Bacteriocins inhibited the adhesion and invasion of L. monocytogenes on Caco-2 cells, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), trans-epithelial electrical resistance (TEER), and cell migration showed that bacteriocin improved the permeability of Caco-2 cells. These results were attributed to the promotion of tight junction proteins (TJP) assembly, specifically zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1), occludin, and claudin-1. Furthermore, bacteriocins could alleviate inflammation by inhibiting the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) pathways and reducing the secretion of interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-1 β (IL-1β) and tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α). Among three bacteriocins, plantaricin RX-8 showed the best antibacterial activity against L. monocytogenes and the most pronounced protective effect on the intestinal barrier due to its unique structure. Based on our findings, we hypothesized that bacteriocins may inhibit the adhesion and invasion of L. monocytogenes by competing adhesion sites. Moreover, they may further enhance intestinal barrier function by inhibiting the expression of L. monocytogenes virulence factors, increasing the expression of TJP and decreasing the secretion of inflammatory factors. Therefore, bacteriocins will hopefully be an effective alternative to antibiotics, and this study provides valuable insights into food safety concerns.

Key points

• Bacteriocins show excellent antibacterial activity against L. monocytogenes

• Bacteriocins improve intestinal barrier damage and inflammatory response

• Plantaricin RX-8 has the best protective effect on Caco-2 cells damage

Graphical Abstract
Radiomic analysis based on magnetic resonance imaging for the prediction of VEGF expression in hepatocellular carcinoma patients
Authors: Yang Cui , Zhang Ze-Ming , Zhao Zhang-Ping , Wang Zhi-Qing , Zheng Jing , Xiao Hua-jing , Xu Hong , Liu Hui , Yang Lin
Published: June 2024

Objective

The purpose of this study was to investigate the ability of radiomic characteristics of magnetic resonance images to predict vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients.

Methods

One hundred and twenty-four patients with HCC who underwent fat-suppressed T2-weighted imaging (FS-T2WI) and dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (DCE-MRI) one week before surgical resection were enrolled in this retrospective study. Immunohistochemical analysis was used to evaluate the expression level of VEGF. Radiomic features were extracted from the axial FS-T2WI, DCE-MRI (arterial phase and portal venous phase) images of axial MRI. Least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) and stepwise regression analyses were performed to select the best radiomic features. Multivariate logistic regression models were constructed and validated using tenfold cross-validation. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis, calibration curve analysis and decision curve analysis (DCA) were employed to evaluate these models.

Results

Our results show that there were 94 patients with high VEGF expression and 30 patients with low VEGF expression among the 124 HCC patients. The FS-T2WI, DCE-MRI and combined MRI radiomics models had AUCs of 0.8713, 0.7819, and 0.9191, respectively. There was no significant difference in the AUC between the FS-T2WI radiomics model and the DCE-MRI radiomics model (p > 0.05), but the AUC for the combined model was significantly greater than the AUCs for the other two models (p < 0.05) according to the DeLong test. The combined model had the greatest net benefit according to the DCA results.

Conclusion

The radiomic model based on multisequence MR images has the potential to predict VEGF expression in HCC patients. The combined model showed the best performance.

Graphical Abstract