bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Localized surface plasmon resonance sensing of Trenbolone acetate dopant using silver nanoparticles
Authors: Juma Moses Wabwile , Birech Zephania , Mwenze Nancy Mwikali , Ondieki Annah Moraa , Maaza Malik , Mokhotjwa Simon Dhlamini
Published: March 2024

In this work, localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) sensing as applicable in the detection of Trenbolone acetate dopant is demonstrated. We show that the LSPR of the Trenbolone acetate/silver nanoparticle (Tren Ac/AgNPs) complex is sensitive to changes in the adsorbent concentration. The results show an average redshift of + 18 nm in the LSPR peak with variations in intensity and broadening behavior of the LSPR band of the Tren Ac/AgNPs complex. AgNPs were synthesized using laser ablation in liquid (LAL) technique with water as the solvent. UV–Vis spectroscopy was used for absorbance measurements and particle size and morphology were monitored using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The aggregation behavior of the Tren Ac/AgNPs complex was monitored using energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS). Molecular Electrostatic Potential (MEP) and the HOMO–LUMO orbitals of the optimized Trenbolone acetate structure were obtained using Density Function Theory (DFT). The molecule was optimized at the B3LYP level of theory using the 6–311 basis set carried out using the Gaussian 09 software package. The results showed that O2− is Trenbolone acetate’s active site that would interact with Ag+ to form a complex that would influence the plasmon behavior. The results presented in this work demonstrate the feasibility of LSPR for anabolic androgenic steroid detection.
Performance simulation of the perovskite solar cells with Ti3C2 MXene in the SnO2 electron transport layer
Authors: Meskini Mahdiyeh , Asgharizadeh Saeid
Published: March 2024

MXenes, a class of two-dimensional (2D) transition metal carbides and nitrides, have a wide range of potential applications due to their unique electronic, optical, plasmonic, and other properties. SnO2–Ti3C2 MXene with different contents of Ti3C2 (0.5, 1.0, 2.0, 2.5 wt‰), experimentally, has been used as electron transport layers (ETLs) in Perovskite Solar Cells (PSCs). The SCAPS-1D simulation software could simulate a perovskite solar cell comprised of CH3NH3PbI3 absorber and SnO2 (or SnO2–Ti3C2) ETL. The simulation results like Power Conversion Efficiency (PCE), Open circuit voltage (VOC), Short circuit current density (JSC), Fill Factor (FF), and External Quantum Efficiency (EQE) have been compared within samples with different weight percentages of Ti3C2 MXene incorporated in ETL. Reportedly, the ETL of SnO2 with Ti3C2 (1.0 wt‰) effectively increases PCE from 17.32 to 18.32%. We simulate the role of MXene in changing the ideality factor (nid), photocurrent (JPh), built-in potential (Vbi), and recombination resistance (Rrec). The study of interface recombination currents and electric field shows that cells with 1.0 wt‰ of MXene in SnO2 ETL have higher values of ideality factor, built-in potential, and recombination resistance. The correlation between these values and cell performance allows one to conclude the best cell performance for the sample with 1.0 wt‰ of MXene in SnO2 ETL. With an optimization procedure for this cell, an efficiency of 27.81% is reachable.
Genetic correlations and causal relationships between cardio-metabolic traits and sepsis
Authors: Zhang Zhongheng , Chen Lin , Zhang Haoyang , Xiao Wei , Yang Jie , Huang Jiajie , Hu Qichao , Jin Ketao , Hong Yucai
Published: March 2024

Cardio-metabolic traits have been reported to be associated with the development of sepsis. It is, however, unclear whether these co-morbidities reflect causal associations, shared genetic heritability, or are confounded by environmental factors. We performed three analyses to explore the relationships between cardio-metabolic traits and sepsis. Mendelian randomization (MR) study to evaluate the causal effects of multiple cardio-metabolic traits on sepsis. Global genetic correlation analysis to explore the correlations between cardio-metabolic traits and sepsis. Local genetic correlation (GC) analysis to explore shared genetic heritability between cardio-metabolic traits and sepsis. Some loci were further examined for related genes responsible for the causal relationships. Genetic associations were obtained from the UK Biobank data or published large-scale genome-wide association studies with sample sizes between 200,000 to 750,000. In MR, we found causality between BMI and sepsis (OR: 1.53 [1.4–1.67]; p < 0.001). Body mass index (BMI), which is confirmed by sensitivity analyses and multivariable MR adjusting for confounding factors. Global GC analysis showed a significant correlation between BMI and sepsis (rg = 0.55, p < 0.001). More cardio-metabolic traits were identified to be correlated to the sepsis onset such as CRP (rg = 0.37, p = 0.035), type 2 diabetes (rg = 0.33, p < 0.001), HDL (rg = − 0.41, p < 0.001), and coronary artery disease (rg = 0.43, p < 0.001). Local GC revealed some shared genetic loci responsible for the causality. The top locus 1126 was located at chromosome 7 and comprised genes HIBADH, JAZF1, and CREB5. The present study provides evidence for an independent causal effect of BMI on sepsis. Further detailed analysis of the shared genetic heritability between cardio-metabolic traits and sepsis provides the opportunity to improve the preventive strategies for sepsis.
Microwave graphitic nitrogen/boron ultradoping of graphene
Authors: Bhushan Rebti , Bandyopadhyay Arkamita , Kallatt Sangeeth , Thakur Awalendra K. , Pati Swapan K. , Kumar Prashant
Published: March 2024

Insufficient carrier concentration and lack of room temperature ferromagnetism in pristine graphene limit its dream applications in electronic and spintronic chips. While theoretical calculations have revealed that graphitic ultradoping can turn graphene into semiconducting and room temperature ferromagnetic, the exotic set of thermodynamic conditions needed for doping result in defects and functionalities in graphene which end up giving significant electronic scattering. We report our discovery of microwave ultradoping of graphene with N > 30%, B ~ 19%, and co-doping to form BCN phases (B5C73N22, B8C76N16, and B10C77N13). An unprecedented level of graphitic doping ~95% enhances carrier concentration up to ~9.2 × 1012 cm−2, keeping high electronic mobility ~9688 cm2 V−1s−1 intact, demonstrated by field effect transistor measurements. Room temperature ferromagnetic character with magnetization ~4.18 emug−1 is reported and is consistent with our DFT band structure calculations. This breakthrough research on tunable graphitic ultradoping of 2D materials opens new avenues for emerging multi-functional technological applications.
Speech-induced suppression during natural dialogues
Authors: Gonzalez Joaquin E. , Nieto Nicolás , Brusco Pablo , Gravano Agustín , Kamienkowski Juan E.
Published: March 2024

When engaged in a conversation, one receives auditory information from the other’s speech but also from their own speech. However, this information is processed differently by an effect called Speech-Induced Suppression. Here, we studied brain representation of acoustic properties of speech in natural unscripted dialogues, using electroencephalography (EEG) and high-quality speech recordings from both participants. Using encoding techniques, we were able to reproduce a broad range of previous findings on listening to another’s speech, and achieving even better performances when predicting EEG signal in this complex scenario. Furthermore, we found no response when listening to oneself, using different acoustic features (spectrogram, envelope, etc.) and frequency bands, evidencing a strong effect of SIS. The present work shows that this mechanism is present, and even stronger, during natural dialogues. Moreover, the methodology presented here opens the possibility of a deeper understanding of the related mechanisms in a wider range of contexts.
Band transport evidence in PEDOT:PSS films using broadband optical spectroscopy from terahertz to ultraviolet region
Authors: Guo Zijing , Sato Tetsu , Han Yang , Takamura Naoki , Ikeda Ryohei , Miyamoto Tatsuya , Kida Noriaki , Ogino Makiko , Takahashi Youtarou , Kasuya Naotaka , Watanabe Shun , Takeya Jun , Wei Qingshuo , Mukaida Masakazu , Okamoto Hiroshi
Published: March 2024

Poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrene sulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) is a prototypical conducting polymer. When a polar solvent is used during film fabrication, the hole-doped PEDOT oligomers form crystalline clusters in the films, exhibiting high conductivity. However, whether hole carriers exhibit band transport has not been clarified yet. Here, we employ a multilayer spin-coating method using an aqueous solution with ethylene glycol, with additional procedures of dipping the films in ethylene glycol or dropping sulfuric acid onto the films, to achieve a high DC conductivity of ∼1000 S cm−1 or higher. Using terahertz time-domain spectroscopy and far-infrared-to-ultraviolet reflection spectroscopy, we derive complex optical conductivity $$\widetilde{\sigma }$$

σ

̃

spectra, which are reproduced by the sum of the Drude response, and Lorentz-oscillator responses due to phonons. These results demonstrate the band transport, which is further confirmed by the Hall effect measurements. The hole mobility estimated from the spectral analyses is 7–11 cm2 V−1 s−1, a significantly large value. The reported evaluation methods for broadband $$\widetilde{\sigma }$$

σ

̃

spectra can help elucidate carrier transport mechanisms in various conducting films.
Climate change: why oncologists need to get involved
Authors: Schiller Joan H.
Published: March 2024

A warming planet will have devasting effects on human health – including the care, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of cancer patients. As oncology health care professionals, we have a moral and professional obligation to educate our peers, health systems, the public, and other stakeholders as to the dangers they can expect, and how they can be prevented or mitigated. There are numerous ways that we, as trusted messengers, can take action, either personally, locally, nationally, or by supporting non-profit organizations advocating for climate change and cancer.
Automated classification of giant virus genomes using a random forest model built on trademark protein families
Authors: Ha Anh D. , Aylward Frank O.
Published: March 2024

Viruses of the phylum Nucleocytoviricota, often referred to as “giant viruses,” are prevalent in various environments around the globe and play significant roles in shaping eukaryotic diversity and activities in global ecosystems. Given the extensive phylogenetic diversity within this viral group and the highly complex composition of their genomes, taxonomic classification of giant viruses, particularly incomplete metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs) can present a considerable challenge. Here we developed TIGTOG (Taxonomic Information of Giant viruses using Trademark Orthologous Groups), a machine learning-based approach to predict the taxonomic classification of novel giant virus MAGs based on profiles of protein family content. We applied a random forest algorithm to a training set of 1531 quality-checked, phylogenetically diverse Nucleocytoviricota genomes using pre-selected sets of giant virus orthologous groups (GVOGs). The classification models were predictive of viral taxonomic assignments with a cross-validation accuracy of 99.6% at the order level and 97.3% at the family level. We found that no individual GVOGs or genome features significantly influenced the algorithm’s performance or the models’ predictions, indicating that classification predictions were based on a comprehensive genomic signature, which reduced the necessity of a fixed set of marker genes for taxonomic assigning purposes. Our classification models were validated with an independent test set of 823 giant virus genomes with varied genomic completeness and taxonomy and demonstrated an accuracy of 98.6% and 95.9% at the order and family level, respectively. Our results indicate that protein family profiles can be used to accurately classify large DNA viruses at different taxonomic levels and provide a fast and accurate method for the classification of giant viruses. This approach could easily be adapted to other viral groups.
Continuous electro-growth of a hierarchically structured hydrogel on a non-conductive surface
Authors: Xu Yuncheng , Tong Jun , Zhang Jingxian , Li Yuting , Shi Xiaowen , Deng Hongbing , Du Yumin
Published: March 2024

Designing hydrogels with hierarchically ordered structures is of significance for biomimetic applications through simulating natural biological soft tissues.
Cobalt-catalyzed double hydroboration of pyridines
Authors: Höeg Finn , Luxenberger Lea , Fedulin Andrey , Jacobi von Wangelin Axel
Published: March 2024

Cobalt phosphinopyridonates enabled the synthetically useful, yet challenging, double hydroboration of pyridines. Mechanistic studies indicated metal–ligand cooperativity, ligand-centered C–H activation and the intermediacy of a cobalt(iii) hydride.
Pendulum-like hemilability in a Ti-based frustrated Lewis Trio
Authors: Kounalis Errikos , van Tongeren Dylan , Melnikov Stanislav , Lutz Martin , Broere Daniël L. J.
Published: March 2024

We describe the first experimental example of a theoretically predicted Frustrated Lewis Trio (FLT), which displays pendulum-like hemilability in heterolytic bond activation processes.
Improving the stability and activity of a dye-decolourizing peroxidase using NADESs
Authors: Garbe Maria , Lutz Linnea Ute , Lehmann Leander Tom , Strotmann Theresa , Berger Ralf G. , Ersoy Franziska
Published: March 2024

Applications of a dye-decolourizing peroxidase in betaine-based NADESs.
Bypassing the scaling relations in oxygen electrocatalysis with geometry-adaptive catalysts
Authors: Cepitis Ritums , Ivaništšev Vladislav , Rossmeisl Jan , Kongi Nadezda
Published: March 2024

Geometry-adaptation during oxygen electrocatalysis makes catalysts behave as ideal and elevates them to the apex of the activity volcano.
A graft-to strategy of poly(vinylphosphonates) on dopazide-coated gold nanoparticles using in situ catalyst activation
Authors: Weingarten Philipp , Thomas Sophie R. , Luiza de Andrade Querino Ana , Halama Kerstin , Kränzlein Moritz , Casini Angela , Rieger Bernhard
Published: March 2024

A graft-to-strategy to tether alkyne-terminated polyesters to the surface of dopazide stabilised AuNPs via click chemistry in aqueous conditions in situ.
Novel SmartReservoirs for hydrogel-forming microneedles to improve the transdermal delivery of rifampicin
Authors: Abraham Abraham M. , Anjani Qonita Kurnia , Adhami Masoud , Hutton Aaron R. J. , Larrañeta Eneko , Donnelly Ryan F.
Published: March 2024

SmartReservoirs (SRs) are novel drug-reservoirs for hydrogel-forming microneedles (HF-MNs). SRs improved rifampicin solubility and diffusion through the HF-matrix, thereby enhancing the transdermal permeation of the poorly soluble antibiotic.
Design of integrated wideband WR34‐band diplexer‐antenna array module for exploration of monolithic metal 3‐D printing for space applications
Authors: Vaitukaitis Povilas , Rao Jiayu , Nai Kenneth , Hong Jiasheng
Published: March 2024

The design of a wideband diplexer integrated with a 16‐slot Continuous Transverse Stub (CTS) antenna array is presented. The diplexer‐antenna array module covers the whole WR34 band. The Tx and Rx bands cover 21.7–26 and 27.5–33 GHz ranges, respectively. The diplexer is designed to have a 100 dB attenuation in the stopband and 40 dB isolation between the channels. The antenna array has a high gain, between 26.9 and 31 dBi, at the lowest and highest frequencies. For the preliminary exploration of monolithic metal 3‐D printing of complex geometry integrated RF front ends, two prototypes were manufactured in AlSi10 Mg. One‐piece fabrication eliminates complicated assembly, enhances reliability, and reduces weight, which is more desirable for space applications. Due to several factors, namely, an unpolished inner surface and imperfect printing quality, the diplexer had a poor measured performance. The measured results of the antenna array had a relatively better agreement with simulations. Although, the realised gain was affected by the much lower effective conductivity of the unpolished 3‐D printed material. Hence, the measured realised gain was between 27.8 and 30.9 dBi in the 29–33 GHz range.
The impact of blade inlet angle (β2) influence on pump‐as‐turbine performance by using entropy production theory
Authors: Fordjour Alexander , Dwomoh Frank A. , Otuboah Francis Yaw , Kwabene Castro Owusu‐Manu , Asomani Stephen Ntiri
Published: March 2024

The effect of the blade inlet angle on the pump‐as‐turbine (PAT) has not been adequately investigated. The hydraulic performance of PAT was analyzed using an available test rig. The accuracy of the numerical data was established by the comparative analysis of the experimental data. The study demonstrated that as the blade inlet angle increases, so does hydraulic performance, but only to a certain degree. The required pressure head and the shaft power increased with the increase in blade inlet angle. As compared to the volute and outlet pipe, the hydraulic power loss within the impeller accounts for a large portion of the total power loss. The impeller power loss decreases and increases at low and high flow rates, respectively, as the blade inlet angle increases. The fluid angle of attack decreases as the blade inlet angle increases at high flow, allowing the impeller power loss to drop and performance to increase. To visualize PAT internal energy loss, the distribution of the variable of pressure, velocity, and entropy dissipation theory was applied. The impeller had the highest energy loss of the PAT geometrical parameters. The shock loss, flow separation, and asymmetric volute structure are the primary causes of impeller loss. The unsteady simulation results showed that rotor–stator interaction greatly influences the gap between the volute tongue and the impeller tip. The research results provide a reference for the design of the PAT.
Gesundheitsschädliche Wirkungen von Aromen in E-Zigaretten
Authors: Sommer Natascha , Franzen Klaas , Andreas Stefan , Pankow Wulf , Kunstmann Wilfried , Hanewinkel Reiner
Published: March 2024

Hintergrund Fast alle E-Zigaretten enthalten Aromastoffe, die das Produkt attraktiver machen. Bei der Bewertung von E-Zigaretten in Bezug auf die Gesundheit spielten Aromen bisher eine untergeordnete Rolle.

Methode Selektive Literaturrecherche in PubMed, ergänzt durch rechtliche Bestimmungen zur Nutzung von Aromen in E-Zigaretten.

Ergebnisse Aromen erleichtern den Einstieg in den E-Zigarettenkonsum und haben eine konsumfördernde Wirkung. Durch tieferes Inhalieren werden die Nikotinaufnahme und die Aufnahme toxischer Substanzen aus dem E-Zigaretten-Liquid gesteigert. Für einige Aromen wurden pathologische Wirkungen, additiv zu anderen toxischen Bestandteilen der E-Zigarette, nachgewiesen. Für die große Mehrzahl der in E-Zigaretten enthaltenen Aromen liegen bisher keine toxikologischen Analysen vor.

Schlussfolgerungen Die nachgewiesene konsumfördernde Wirkung und die aus präklinischen Daten extrapolierbaren Gesundheitsrisiken sind bedeutsam für die politische Diskussion eines Verbots von Aromen auch für E-Zigaretten, analog zu dem bereits geltenden Verbot von Aromen in Tabakerzeugnissen.
Therapeutic Potential of Diosgenin in Amelioration of Carbon
Tetrachloride-Induced Murine Liver Injury
Authors: Ghosian-Moghaddam Mohamad-Hasan , Mohseni-Moghaddam Parvaneh , Roghani Mehrdad
Published: March 2024

Diosgenin is a sapogenin with antidiabetic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory
properties. The current study investigated whether diosgenin could ameliorate
carbon tetrachloride (CCL4)-induced liver injury. To cause liver injury, CCL4
was injected intraperitoneally twice a week for 8 weeks. Daily oral
administration of diosgenin at doses of 20, 40, and 80 mg/kg was started one day
before CCL4 injection and continued for 8 weeks. Finally, serum levels of
aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and also
albumin were assessed. Catalase and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities in
addition to glutathione (GSH) and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were also
quantified in the liver homogenate and routine histological evaluation was also
conducted. Elevated serum levels of liver enzymes and decreased serum level of
albumin caused by CCL4 were significantly restored following diosgenin
administration at doses of 40 and 80 mg/kg. Long-term administration of CCL4
increased inflammatory and apoptotic factors such as IL-1β, caspase 3, TNF-α,
and IL-6 and decreased SOD and catalase activities as well as GSH level in liver
homogenates; while MDA level was increased. Treatment with diosgenin increased
SOD and catalase activities and GSH levels in the liver of injured animals. In
addition, liver MDA, IL-1β, caspase 3, TNF-α, and IL-6 level or activity
decreased by diosgenin treatment. Additionally, diosgenin aptly prevented
aberrant liver histological changes. According to obtained results, diosgenin
can dose-dependently diminish CCl4-induced liver functional deficits and
histological changes in a dose-dependent manner, possibly due to its antioxidant
and anti-inflammation properties, and its beneficial effect is comparable to
known hepatoprotective agent silymarin.
Laparoscopic Adrenal Gland Surgery in Times of COVID – Is a
Safety-Interval Before Surgery After COVID-Infection Still
Mandatory?
Authors: Lang Lina , Schirren Malte , Wirth Ulrich , Hofmann-Kiefer Klaus , Kroiss Matthias , Werner Jens , Zimmermann Petra
Published: March 2024

Background Due to a multicenter study early in the coronavirus disease
(COVID)-pandemic that revealed an increased risk for postoperative mortality,
thromboembolic and pulmonary complications in case of surgery shortly after a
COVID infection, current recommendations for planning elective surgeries suggest
postponing surgery for at least 7 weeks after COVID infection. However, virus
variants have evolved throughout the pandemic, leading to less severe symptoms.
Besides, laparoscopic adrenal gland surgery itself is a safe procedure with low
morbidity rates. Therefore, this study aimed to compare the perioperative course
of patients undergoing laparoscopic adrenalectomy shortly after a COVID-19
infection with those who had not had a recent SARS-CoV-2 infection in 2022.

Patients, Material, and Methods All patients who underwent laparoscopic
adrenalectomy at the Department for General, Visceral and Transplantation
Surgery at Ludwig-Maximilian University between January and December 2022 were
included.

Results There was no event of thromboembolic or pulmonary complications in
the study population. Duration of surgery did not differ between the two groups;
neither did the need for postoperative ICU-admittance nor the duration of
ICU-stay. Intraoperative FiO2 did not differ, nor did the
SpO2 or the number of different catecholamines. There was a
slight trend towards higher noradrenaline dosage among patients after COVID-19
infection. Previous COVID infection did not lead to prolonged hospital
stays.

Conclusion The results demonstrate that in case of well-standardized
surgical procedures, with a limited surgical trauma and the possibility for
patients to be mobilized early, surgery shortly after a mild COVID infection
seems safe and reasonable.
Bioprotective Role of Phytocompounds Against the Pathogenesis of Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease to Non-alcoholic Steatohepatitis: Unravelling Underlying Molecular Mechanisms
Authors: Banerjee Tanmoy , Sarkar Arnab , Ali Sk Zeeshan , Bhowmik Rudranil , Karmakar Sanmoy , Halder Amit Kumar , Ghosh Nilanjan
Published: March 2024

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), with a global prevalence of 25%, continues to escalate, creating noteworthy concerns towards the global health burden. NAFLD causes triglycerides and free fatty acids to build up in the liver. The excessive fat build-up causes inflammation and damages the healthy hepatocytes, leading to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Dietary habits, obesity, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, and dyslipidemia influence NAFLD progression. The disease burden is complicated due to the paucity of therapeutic interventions. Obeticholic acid is the only approved therapeutic agent for NAFLD. With more scientific enterprise being directed towards the understanding of the underlying mechanisms of NAFLD, novel targets like lipid synthase, farnesoid X receptor signalling, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors associated with inflammatory signalling, and hepatocellular injury have played a crucial role in the progression of NAFLD to NASH.
Phytocompounds have shown promising results in modulating hepatic lipid metabolism and de novo lipogenesis, suggesting their possible role in managing NAFLD. This review discusses the ameliorative role of different classes of phytochemicals with molecular mechanisms in different cell lines and established animal models. These compounds may lead to the development of novel therapeutic strategies for NAFLD progression to NASH. This review also deliberates on phytomolecules undergoing clinical trials for effective management of NAFLD.
Can green finance policy promote ecosystem product value realization? Evidence from a quasi-natural experiment in China
Authors: Wu Guoyong , Cheng Jianwei , Yang Fan , Chen Gaozhe
Published: March 2024

This study takes the Green Finance Pilot Zones (GFPZ) policy in China as a quasi-natural experiment and employs the synthetic control method to test the policy effect of GFPZ on ecosystem product value realization, using the province-level gross ecosystem product (GEP) panel data from 2011 to 2020. The results reveal that GFPZ significantly promotes the value realization of ecosystem products, this positive impact remains robust after the test of spatial placebo studies, leave-one-out estimation, difference-in-differences (DID) method, and controlling the effects of other policy impacts. Meanwhile, the ecological transformation of industries and ecological industry development serves as the critical mechanism pathways for GFPZ to realize the value of ecosystem products. In addition, we identify significant spatial spillover effects resulting from GFPZ implementation. Heterogeneity analysis reveals that the impact of the GFPZ policy on ecosystem product value realization is more significant in the central, the western regions, and the areas with high financial development levels. Moreover, for heterogeneous policy goals, GFPZ has greater policy impacts in ecologically vulnerable regions, followed by industrial upgrading regions, while the impact on the resource development region is not significant. These findings provide empirical evidence on the attributions of green finance policy to sustainable development and underscore the pressing need for enhancing the effective adaptation of green finance policy to local circumstances, making full use of green finance tools to promote ecosystem product value realization and advance sustainable development.
Nonplanar effects in simulations of laser-driven ejecta microjet experiments
Authors: Horwitz J. A. K. , Sun Y. , Pino J. , Morgan B. E. , Mackay K. K. , Najjar F. M. , Ali S. J. , Eggert J. H. , Ping Y. , Park H.-S. , Saunders A. M.
Published: March 2024

Recent experiments of laser-driven ejecta microjets performed at OMEGA 60 reveal tortuous jets whereby the jets appear to deviate from their initial trajectory as they travel in vacuum. To understand these data, we perform two dimensional numerical simulations, considering different target thicknesses, pressures, and models of the drive conditions. In particular, modeling the finite laser spot size appears essential in reproducing qualitatively the non-planar shock observed in the experiment. Simulations capture jet deflection by accounting for a slight misalignment of the laser pointing with respect to the groove axis along with spatial variation of the laser pulse intensity. The principal physical mechanism appears to be that lateral momentum is imparted by release waves arising from the non-planar drive. The induced off-axis velocity is small in comparison to the jet axial velocity but integrates into a pronounced deflection over the course of the experiment. The analysis of jet axial and lateral mass distributions is found to be reproduced reasonably by the simulations. Simulated radiographs are in qualitative agreement with the experiments, though their differences point to potential shortcomings in modeling strictly three-dimensional experiments using two-dimensional hydrodynamic simulations. The simple analysis is able to explain part of the observed discrepancy in simulated vs experimental jet masses.
In vitro degradation behavior of oriented microcellular poly(L-lactic acid) biomimetic materials
Authors: Li Zhengqiu , Chen Yueling , Yang Wenchao , Ye Jingbiao , Song Xiangqian , Jin Ying , Liu Xiaoqing
Published: March 2024

This paper investigated the static in vitro degradation behavior of poly(L-lactic acid) (PLLA)-oriented microcellular materials. The study compared the influence of different molecular chains and internal morphological structures on water penetration into the material. Also, the relationship between thse self-accelerated degradation caused by ester bond breakage and reduced material molecular weight and mechanical properties was explored. Furthermore, the mechanism behind the static in vitro degradation of oriented microcellular PLLA materials in simulated human body fluid was explored, laying the foundation for regulating the mechanical performance decline of oriented microcellular biomimetic bone repair materials to match specific bone healing periods.
Analysis of a patch epidemic model incorporating population migration and entry–exit screening
Authors: Li Yuhang , Sun Yongzheng , Liu Maoxing
Published: March 2024

This paper presents an SIQR patch model that combines population migration and entry–exit screening. The threshold for disease extinction is determined using the next-generation matrix method. By constructing the Lyapunov function, the global asymptotic stability of the disease-free equilibrium is demonstrated when R0 < 1. The local asymptotic stability of the endemic equilibrium is shown using the Hurwitz criterion, and it is found that the disease is uniformly persistent when R0 > 1. The influence of screening and migration on disease dynamics is discussed via numerical simulations. Our findings highlight the significance of the detection rate as a vital index in disease transmission and emphasize the effectiveness of screening strategies in preventing outbreaks. Therefore, during an outbreak, it is recommended to establish checkpoints in regions with high mobility to identify and isolate potentially infected individuals, thereby reducing the widespread dissemination of the pandemic.
Allosteric regulation of nitrate transporter NRT via the signaling protein PII
Authors: Li Bo , Wang Xiao-Qian , Li Qin-Yao , Xu Da , Li Jing , Hou Wen-Tao , Chen Yuxing , Jiang Yong-Liang , Zhou Cong-Zhao
Published: March 2024

Coordinated carbon and nitrogen metabolism is crucial for bacteria living in the fluctuating environments. Intracellular carbon and nitrogen homeostasis is maintained by a sophisticated network, in which the widespread signaling protein PII acts as a major regulatory hub. In cyanobacteria, PII was proposed to regulate the nitrate uptake by an ABC (ATP-binding cassette)-type nitrate transporter NrtABCD, in which the nucleotide-binding domain of NrtC is fused with a C-terminal regulatory domain (CRD). Here, we solved three cryoelectron microscopy structures of NrtBCD, bound to nitrate, ATP, and PII, respectively. Structural and biochemical analyses enable us to identify the key residues that form a hydrophobic and a hydrophilic cavity along the substrate translocation channel. The core structure of PII, but not the canonical T-loop, binds to NrtC and stabilizes the CRD, making it visible in the complex structure, narrows the substrate translocation channel in NrtB, and ultimately locks NrtBCD at an inhibited inward-facing conformation. Based on these results and previous reports, we propose a putative transport cycle driven by NrtABCD, which is allosterically inhibited by PII in response to the cellular level of 2-oxoglutarate. Our findings provide a distinct regulatory mechanism of ABC transporter via asymmetrically binding to a signaling protein.
Key pathways toward developing more ecoliterate individuals: a harmonious discourse analysis perspective
Authors: Ha Changchen , Chen Yang , Dong Shumin
Published: March 2024

This article explores key pathways to improve the Chinese people’s ecological literacy (ecoliteracy) in ecolinguistics, and uses the framework of harmonious discourse analysis (HDA) to show how those pathways work. First, by reviewing HDA and ecoliteracy, we clarified the feasibility of their combined study. Then, a questionnaire was conducted among the inhabitants of one of China’s most ecologically advanced cities, and the key pathways to improving ecoliteracy were determined. The results showed that there were eight factors that were considered to encourage the people to be more ecoliterate, falling into the categories of education, participation in activities, and documents and publicity. We also reviewed a variety of cases and demonstrated the significance of these pathways for ecoliteracy using the framework of HDA. We found that an ecoliterate individual can guide ecological practice better by following the general assumption of human-orientedness and the principles of conscience, proximity, and regulation. These results provide new ways for ecologists and linguists to explore ecological issues, not only broadening the linguistic pathways of ecoliteracy, but also enriching the content of HDA.
Engineered charge transport layers for improving indoor perovskite photovoltaic performance
Authors: Datt Ram , Caprioglio Pietro , Choudhary Saqlain , Lan Weixia , Snaith Henry , Tsoi Wing Chung
Published: March 2024

The developing Internet of Things market is attracting the indoor photovoltaic (IPV) as an essential power source. Perovskite photovoltaics (PPVs) are a fascinating candidate for IPV in solution-processable photovoltaics. Recent developments in PPVs can deliver power conversion efficiency (PCE) up to 25% outdoor (AM 1.5 G) and over 40% under indoor (1000 lux) light. The selection of charge transport layers (CTLs) has played an essential role in improving PPVs indoor performance. Herein, formamidinium-caesium-based mixed-cation (FACsPb(I,Br)3) PPV devices are fabricated, and evaluated their outdoor and indoor performances by changing the different CTL combinations such as PTAA-PCBM and SAM-C60. Outdoor PCEs were 13.76% and 15.27% achieved for PTAA-PCBM and SAM-C60-based devices, respectively. Meanwhile, under LED (4000 K) 1000 lux, the PCEs were 26.32% and 31.92% for PTAA-PCBM and SAM-C60-based PPV, respectively. The short circuit current (J
sc) (116.8–122.5 µA cm−2) and fill factor (FF) (0.724–0.817) were the main parameters which improved for SAM-C60-based devices under indoor light. This study points to the importance of CTL combination and indicates the promising potential of SAM-C60 interlayers in PPV indoor applications.
Leapfrogging the darkness: contextualising the meaning of energy transitions for African countries
Authors: Sterl Sebastian , Shirley Rebekah , Githinji Mary , Dortch Rose , Guan Min , Turner Adair
Published: March 2024

This paper reviews the state-of-the-art of research on African energy transitions and pinpoints critical questions that require answering to allow science-based policymaking. It both highlights unique elements of energy transitions research in the African context, and explains why these need deeper investigation to enable decisions informed by clear and objective country-specific analysis. In doing so, it pinpoints clear areas of future study that are urgently needed at the country level to enable science-informed policy.
One-dimensional topological theories with defects: the linear case
Authors: Im Mee , Khovanov Mikhail
Published: March 2024

The paper studies the Karoubi envelope of a one-dimensional topological theory with defects and inner endpoints, defined over a field. It turns out that the Karoubi envelope is determined by a symmetric Frobenius algebra

K

\mathcal {K}

associated to the theory. The Karoubi envelope is then equivalent to the quotient of the Frobenius–Brauer category of

K

\mathcal {K}

modulo the ideal of negligible morphisms. Symmetric Frobenius algebras, such as

K

\mathcal {K}

, describe two-dimensional TQFTs for the category of thin flat surfaces, and elements of the algebra can be turned into defects on the side boundaries of these surfaces. We also explain how to couple

K

\mathcal {K}

to the universal construction restricted to closed surfaces to define a topological theory of open-closed two-dimensional cobordisms which is usually not an open-closed 2D TQFT.
A fractional-order equation and its finite difference scheme for approximating a delay equation
Authors: Ji Cui-Cui , Dai Weizhong
Published: March 2024

This study aims at seeking a fractional-order equation that is a good approximation for a delay equation. To this end, we consider a delay equation with simple initial and boundary conditions and obtain a fractional-order equation and an associated numerical method for approximating the solution of the delay equation. In order to determine the fractional-order equation that is a better approximation of the Delay equation, the Levenberg-Marquardt iterative method is employed to estimate the optimal parameters in the fractional-order equation. This obtained fractional-order equation is then tested and compared its solution with the solution of the delay equation. Results show that the fractional method is indeed a good approximation for the Delay equation.
A simple NSFD inspired method for Monod kinetics with small half saturation constants in the chemostat setting
Authors: Eberl Hermann
Published: March 2024

Monod kinetics is an important nonlinearity that appears in mathematical modelling of microbial systems, but (under different names) also in many other applications in Mathematical Biology and Process Engineering. Although seemingly innocuous, for some extreme parameter values (notably very small half saturation concentrations and large decay rates), sophisticated high order solvers for ordinary differential equations have been known to fail. We explore this breakdown situation and suggest a simple, low order, easy to implement method that is inspired by so-called Nonstandard Finite Difference or Mickens schemes. We find that these can be a viable alternative to modern initial value problem solvers, in the problematic cases of extreme parameter values.
Management and outcome in foreign-born vs native-born patients with myocardial infarction in Sweden
Authors: Zwackman Sammy , Häggström Jenny , Hagström Emil , Jernberg Tomas , Karlsson Jan-Erik , Lawesson Sofia Sederholm , Leosdottir Margret , Ravn-Fischer Annica , Eriksson Marie , Alfredsson Joakim
Published: March 2024

Aims

Previous studies on disparities in healthcare and outcomes have shown conflicting results. The aim of this study was to assess differences in baseline characteristics, management, and outcomes in myocardial infarction (MI) patients, by country of birth.

Methods and results

In total, 194 259 MI patients (64% male, 15% foreign-born) from the nationwide SWEDEHEART (The Swedish Web-system for Enhancement and Development of Evidence-based care in Heart disease Evaluated According to Recommended Therapies) registry were included and compared by geographic region of birth. The primary outcome was 1-year major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs) including all-cause death, MI, and stroke. Secondary outcomes were long-term MACE (up to 12 years), the individual components of MACE, 30-day mortality, management, and risk factors. Logistic regression, Cox proportional hazard models, and propensity score match (PSM), accounting for baseline differences, were used. Foreign-born patients were younger, often male, and had a higher cardiovascular (CV) risk factor burden, including smoking, diabetes, and hypertension. In PSM analyses, Asia-born patients had higher likelihood of revascularization [odds ratio 1.16, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.04–1.30], statins and beta-blocker prescription at discharge, and a 34% lower risk of 30-day mortality. Furthermore, no statistically significant differences were found in primary outcomes except for Asia-born patients having lower risk of 1-year MACE [hazard ratio (HR) 0.85, 95% CI 0.73–0.98], driven by lower mortality (HR 0.72, 95% CI 0.57–0.91). The results persisted over the long-term follow-up.

Conclusion

This study shows that in a system with universal healthcare coverage in which acute and secondary preventive treatments do not differ by country of birth, foreign-born patients, despite higher CV risk factor burden, will do at least as well as native-born patients.
The evolution of honest and dishonest signals of fighting ability
Authors: Dashtbali Mohammadali , Long Xiaoyan , Henshaw Jonathan M
Published: March 2024

Competition over resources is often decided via aggressive interactions, which may or may not escalate to all-out fights. Weapons and body size play important roles in such interactions, as they often provide reliable cues of an individual’s fighting ability. In contrast, traits like nonfunctional display “weapons” may dishonestly exaggerate fighting ability in order to intimidate opponents into retreating. Signals used in the context of aggressive interactions potentially evolve via very different mechanisms than courtship signals, but have received far less theoretical attention. Here, we contrast the evolution of honest and dishonest signals of fighting ability using a game-theoretic model. Contests are assumed to consist of three discrete stages: display from a distance, low-intensity physical contact, and fighting. At each stage, contestants evaluate the fighting ability of their opponents in comparison to their own based on body size and an aggressive signal. After making this evaluation, contestants decide whether to escalate the interaction or cede to their opponent. Our model predicts that both honest and dishonest aggressive signals can exaggerate far beyond their ecological optima, but that exaggeration is more pronounced for honest signals. Equilibrium levels of aggressiveness—as measured by individuals’ propensity to escalate aggressive interactions to the next stage—are independent of the honesty of signals. We additionally develop a novel approach, based on causal inference theory, to understand how changes in underlying parameters shape the coevolution of multiple traits. We use this approach to study how aggression coevolves with body and signal size in response to changes in the cost of losing a fight.
Long-term Musculoskeletal Consequences of Chemotherapy in Pediatric Mice
Authors: Huot Joshua R , Livingston Patrick D , Pin Fabrizio , Thomas Connor R , Jamnick Nicholas A , Callaway Chandler S , Bonetto Andrea
Published: March 2024

Thanks to recent progress in cancer research, most children treated for cancer survive into adulthood. Nevertheless, the long-term consequences of anticancer agents are understudied, especially in the pediatric population. We and others have shown that routinely administered chemotherapeutics drive musculoskeletal alterations, which contribute to increased treatment-related toxicity and long-term morbidity. Yet, the nature and scope of these enduring musculoskeletal defects following anticancer treatments and whether they can potentially impact growth and quality of life in young individuals remain to be elucidated. Here, we aimed at investigating the persistent musculoskeletal consequences of chemotherapy in young (pediatric) mice. Four-week-old male mice were administered a combination of 5-FU, leucovorin, irinotecan (a.k.a., Folfiri) or the vehicle for up to 5 wk. At time of sacrifice, skeletal muscle, bones, and other tissues were collected, processed, and stored for further analyses. In another set of experiments, chemotherapy-treated mice were monitored for up to 4 wk after cessation of treatment. Overall, the growth rate was significantly slower in the chemotherapy-treated animals, resulting in diminished lean and fat mass, as well as significantly smaller skeletal muscles. Interestingly, 4 wk after cessation of the treatment, the animals exposed to chemotherapy showed persistent musculoskeletal defects, including muscle innervation deficits and abnormal mitochondrial homeostasis. Altogether, our data support that anticancer treatments may lead to long-lasting musculoskeletal complications in actively growing pediatric mice and support the need for further studies to determine the mechanisms responsible for these complications, so that new therapies to prevent or diminish chemotherapy-related toxicities can be identified.
Effect of Dexmedetomidine on Fluid Resuscitation in Burn-Injured Patients
Authors: Payne Michelle L , Young Sierra , Heard Jason , Bernardy Sarah , Duby Jeremiah J , Fine Jeffrey , Wilson Machelle , Louie Erin
Published: March 2024

Fluid creep occurs when resuscitation after extensive burn injury reaches volumes higher than predicted. Since this has been described in patients with high opioid requirements, continuous analgesics and sedatives, including dexmedetomidine, have been avoided during resuscitation. This study sought to describe the impact of dexmedetomidine on fluid resuscitation requirements. This retrospective cohort study included adult patients with burns greater than 20% total body surface area (TBSA) resuscitated between January 2017 and June 2022 at a regional burn center. Patients deceased within 48 hours of burn were excluded. The primary outcome was volume of fluid required in the first 24 and 48 hours postburn. Secondary outcomes were the incidence of fluid-related adverse events within 7 days postburn. A total of 170 patients were included: 55 in the dexmedetomidine cohort and 115 in the control cohort. After propensity matching for variables associated with fluid creep, the dexmedetomidine cohort required 4.2 ± 1.7 mL/kg/%TBSA in the first 24 hours compared to 3.6 ± 1.1 mL/kg/%TBSA in the control cohort (P = 0.03). The difference was no longer significant at 48 hours (P = 0.11). There were no differences in the incidence of acute respiratory distress syndrome, delayed escharotomy/fasciotomy, intra-abdominal hypertension, or renal replacement therapy. Dexmedetomidine exposure during acute resuscitation resulted in increased fluid requirements in the first 24 hours, suggesting it is independently associated with fluid creep; however, this increase was not sustained at 48 hours. Clinical significance of this finding is unclear, as there was no increase in adverse events related to excessive fluid resuscitation between cohorts.
Application of three-dimensional imaging software to map carcinomatosis in recurrent ovarian cancer
Authors: da Costa Ana Gomes , Albergaria Diogo , Almeida Joana , Nave Mónica , Oliveira Joana , Catarino Ana , Chi Dennis S , Casanova João
Published: March 2024

The treatment of recurrent ovarian cancer has been based on systemic therapy. The role of secondary cytoreductive surgery has been addressed recently in several trials. Imaging plays a key role in helping the surgical team to decide which patients will have resectable disease and benefit from surgery. The role of staging laparoscopy and several imaging and clinical scores has been extensively debated in the field. In other surgical fields there have been reports of using 3D imaging software and 3D printed models to help surgeons better plan the surgical approach. To the best of our knowledge, we report the first case of a patient with recurrent ovarian cancer undergoing 3D modeling before secondary cytoreductive surgery. The 3D modeling was of most value to evaluate the extension of the disease in our patient who underwent a successful secondary cytoreductive surgery and is currently free of the disease.