bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rock fracture propagation in a damage zone by a constitutive model coupling volume and cohesive elements
Authors: He Haozhou , Arson Chloé
Published: January 2024

This paper presents a method to simulate fracture propagation in a damage zone in 2D, whereby Cohesive Zone (CZ) elements are assigned the same Continuum Damage Mechanics (CDM) model as their adjacent finite elements. Material hardening is a result of damage‐induced stiffness reduction in the finite and cohesive elements, while softening is modeled by cohesive debonding only. The damage components calculated at the numerical integration points of each finite element are averaged and that average is assigned to the nodes of the adjacent CZ elements. CZ element debonding triggers when a critical damage threshold is reached, beyond which, a linear softening law is used in both mode I and mode II. The proposed model is calibrated against published triaxial compression tests conducted on shale. Single‐CZ element simulations confirm that, below the critical damage threshold, elastic deformation energy is stored and energy is dissipated by damage propagation and irreversible deformation. Passed the critical damage threshold, stored elastic energy is released in the form of cohesive debonding energy. Borehole breakout simulations indicate that the proposed CDM‐based CZ model can predict the formation of spiral‐shaped fractures around a free circular cavity under biaxial stress. Simulations of fracture propagation in textured materials suggest that cohesive debonding within and between grains is triggered by the coalescence of localized zones of continuum damage, and that the grain size distribution affects both the fracture pattern and the softening behavior of the specimen considered.
Preparation of a novel SiO2/PMMA nanocomposite with high transparency, thermal stability, and superior surface hardness via gamma‐radiation polymerization
Authors: Dong Chunlei , Mao Xuanzhi , Wang Minglei , Zhang Maojiang , Chen Jianbing , Hu Jiangtao , Wu Guozhong
Published: January 2024

Heat‐resistant, highly surface‐hardened, and transparent composites of poly(methylmethacrylate) (PMMA) play a significant role in modern devices. However, conventional PMMA‐based composites with high nanoparticle loadings often compromise transparency for high surface hardness and heat resistance due to nanoparticle aggregation and poor interfacial compatibility. In this work, we successfully fabricated an exceptional composite (MSiO2/PMMA composites) with high transparency, superior heat resistance, and high surface hardness using γ‐ray irradiation‐induced polymerization of methyl methacrylate (MMA) containing uniformly dispersed SiO2 that was modified by 3‐methacryloxypropyl trimethoxysilane and trimethylchlorosilane. Specific silanes were utilized for polarity regulation to reduce the agglomeration of SiO2 nanoparticles and improve compatibility with MMA. Compared to pure PMMA, the 40‐MSiO2/PMMA composite sample exhibited significantly improved thermal stability in terms of the temperature at 10% weight loss (T10%), glass transition temperature (Tg), and decreased coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE). Furthermore, this composite achieves a very high surface hardness (pencil hardness of 6H versus H for pure PMMA) while maintaining transparency similar to PMMA. These MSiO2/PMMA composites open up new avenues to enhance the performance and durability of materials used in various industries such as electronics, optics, automotive, and aerospace.
Experimental and numerical investigation on the crashworthiness performance of double hat‐section Al‐CFRP beam subjected to quasi‐static bending test
Authors: Bidadi J. , Hampaiyan Miandowab H. , Saeidi Googarchin H. , Akhavan‐Safar A. , da Silva L. F. M.
Published: January 2024

Nowadays, hybrid structures, which combine low‐density composites with low‐cost thin‐walled metals, have shown great effect in enhancing the performance of automotive body structures, especially the energy absorber components. This study focuses on the experimental and numerical investigation of the bending energy absorption behavior of CFRP/aluminum hybrid double hat‐section beams used in the side part of the car body. In the experimental section, two types of double hat‐section beams were fabricated: aluminum and Al/CFRP. These beams were then subjected to quasi‐static three‐point bending tests. The results demonstrated that the hybrid beam exhibited superior energy absorption capabilities compared to the single beam. Subsequently, a finite element model was developed using LS‐Dyna software and was validated by comparing the experimental and numerical load–displacement results. In‐depth numerical analyses were conducted to investigate the influence of various design parameters, including CFRP‐reinforcement configuration, numbers of CFRP layers, CFRP ply‐angle, CFRP reinforced length, and aluminum/CFRP mass, on crashworthiness indicators. The numerical findings indicate that the hybrid beam with , ply‐angles exhibited better crash force efficiency (CFE) and specific energy absorption (SEA) compared to other ply‐angles, respectively. Furthermore, increasing the number of CFRP layers within the total beam's mass improved its energy absorption capacity. It was also revealed that the CFRP length on the upper and lower hats could be considered as 42.5% of the total aluminum beam length, as opposed to the full CFRP length, providing enhanced energy absorption capabilities.

Highlights

Bending behavior of the Al and Al/CFRP double hat section beams.

Effects of variable thickness and identical mass on the double hat section beam.

Effects of variable ply angle and number of CFRP layers on the hybrid beams.

Discrete effect of CFRP reinforcement configurations and inner CFRP lengths.
Analyzing domain features of small proteins using a machine‐learning method
Authors: Ding ShiJian , Liao HuiPing , Huang FeiMing , Chen Lei , Guo Wei , Feng KaiYan , Huang Tao , Cai Yu‐Dong
Published: January 2024

Small proteins (SPs) are a unique group of proteins that play crucial roles in many important biological processes. Exploring the biological function of SPs is necessary. In this study, the InterPro tool and the maximum correlation method were utilized to analyze functional domains of SPs. The purpose was to identify important functional domains that can indicate the essential differences between small and large protein sequences. First, the small and large proteins were represented by their functional domains via a one‐hot scheme. Then, the MaxRel method was adopted to evaluate the relationships between each domain and the target variable, indicating small or large protein. The top 36 domain features were selected for further investigation. Among them, 14 were deemed to be highly related to SPs because they were annotated to SPs more frequently than large proteins. We found the involvement of functional domains, such as ubiquitin‐conjugating enzyme/RWD‐like, nuclear transport factor 2 domain, and alpha subunit of guanine nucleotide‐binding protein (G‐protein) in regulating the biological function of SPs. The involvement of these domains has been confirmed by other recent studies. Our findings indicate that protein functional domains may regulate small protein–related functions and predict their biological activity.
Impact of ring structure and conjugation on the dielectric properties of polyimides at a high frequency of 10–40 GHz
Authors: Wu Meng‐Hsuan , Chang Chieh‐Yuan , Liu Yu , Chen Wen‐Chang , Lin Yan‐Cheng
Published: January 2024

Polyimides (PIs) are widely used materials due to their high thermal stability and potentially low dielectric constant (Dk) and dissipation factor (Df). However, Dk and Df values tend to increase at higher frequencies. Therefore, there is a significant need to reduce the Dk and Df values of PIs, which is the main purpose of this study. This research considers multiple factors, including the ring structures and conjugations on the conformation of the PI backbone. The effects of five‐membered and six‐membered PIs and the conjugated length of benzene and naphthalene structures in the repeating units on the thermomechanical and dielectric properties are systematically investigated. As a result, the PI with a six‐membered imide contributes to higher thermal stability, with a glass transition temperature higher than 350 °C, a thermal decomposition point of 529 °C, and a lower Dk of 2.7–2.8. Still, it exhibits a lower molecular weight than that of a five‐membered imide. On the other hand, PIs with esterified structures show an extremely low Df value, 0.002–0.005. This situation can be attributed to the vital correlation between the Df and the volumetric dipole moment. This study also presents the different properties arising from ring structures and conjugations. Meanwhile, the relationships between Dk and volumetric polarizability and between Df and volumetric dipole moment are confirmed. This work provides a guideline for the structure−dielectric relationship of PI at a high frequency of 10–40 GHz.
Scopolamine regulates the osteogenic differentiation of human periodontal ligament stem cells through lactylation modification of RUNX2 protein
Authors: Wu Ying , Gong Pan
Published: January 2024

Periodontal ligament stem cells (PDLSCs) are important mesenchymal stem cells contributing to regenerating lost periodontal tissues and repairing bone defects. Studies on the molecular mechanism affecting the osteogenic differentiation of PDLSCs are necessary. Scopolamine (SCO) is known as a regulator of neural cell damage. The focus of the current study is on unveiling the role of SCO‐mediated molecular mechanism in the osteogenic differentiation of PDLSCs. Through CCK‐8 assay and LDH detection, we confirmed that SCO enhanced the viability of PDLSCs. Moreover, we determined that SCO induced the PDLSCs osteogenic differentiation, according to data of ALP activity measurement and ARS staining. Mechanistically, we performed western blot and identified that SCO could promote the lactylation of runt‐related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2). We also found through rescue assays that knockdown of RUNX2 could reverse the effect of SCO treatment on the osteogenic differentiation of PDLSCs. Further mechanism investigation revealed that lactylation of RUNX2 at K176 site enhances the protein stability of RUNX2 through deubiquitination. Collectively, our present study unveils that SCO stabilizes RUNX2 to promote the osteogenic differentiation of PDLSCs through the lactylation modification of RUNX2.
Tandem mass spectrometry using continuous‐wave infrared multiphoton dissociation in an electrostatic linear ion trap
Authors: Carrick Ian J. , Fabijanczuk Kimberly C. , Rong Jiayue , McLuckey Scott A.
Published: January 2024

Rationale

The electrostatic linear ion trap (ELIT) can be operated as a multi‐reflection time‐of‐flight (MR‐TOF) or Fourier transform (FT) mass analyzer. It has been shown to be capable of performing high‐resolution mass analysis and high‐resolution ion isolations. Although it has been used in charge‐detection mass spectrometry (CDMS), it has not been widely used as a conventional mass spectrometer for ensemble measurements of ions, or for tandem mass spectrometer. The advantages of tandem mass spectrometer with high‐resolution ion isolations in the ELIT have thus not been fully exploited.

Methods

A homebuilt ELIT was modified with BaF2 viewports to facilitate transmission of a laser beam at the turnaround point of the second ion mirror in the ELIT. Fragmentation that occurs at the turnaround point of these ion mirrors should result in minimal energy partitioning due to the low kinetic energy of ions at these points. The laser was allowed to irradiate ions for a period of many oscillations in the ELIT.

Results

Due to the low energy absorption of gas‐phase ions during each oscillation in the ELIT, fragmentation was found to occur over a range of oscillations in the ELIT generating a homogeneous ion beam. A mirror‐switching pulse is shown to create time‐varying perturbations in this beam that oscillate at the fragment ion characteristic frequencies and generate a time‐domain signal. This was found to recover FT signal for protonated pYGGFL and pSGGFL precursor ions.

Conclusions

Fragmentation at the turnaround point of an ELIT by continuous‐wave infrared multiphoton dissociation (cw‐IRMPD) is demonstrated. In cases where laser power absorption is low and fragmentation occurs over many laps, a mirror‐switching pulse may be used to recover varying time‐domain signal. The combination of laser activation at the turnaround points and mirror‐switching isolation allows for tandem MS in the ELIT.
Creative collaborations can support students’ mental health
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: January 2024

BURLINGTON, VERMONT — The traumas and losses of the pandemic combined with the pressures and pervasiveness of social media and technology use to create the perfect storm in college students’ lives. That left many students’ mental health in tatters, placing more demand on counseling centers, which were already stretched thin. And it's not going away soon. It takes about seven years to work through a trauma and about one to two years to work through the loss of a loved one — but that's when support systems are available to help, according to Jeremy Butler, Chief Innovation Officer at Integrated Community Alternatives Network, a nonprofit organization (www.ican.family).
Nitrogen‐Doped Bifunctional Carbon Dots: Photoluminescence Investigation, and Fluorescent Recognition Applications
Authors: Zhang Ran , Fu Fubin , Cao Jing , Chen Zhengyang
Published: January 2024

In this work, three kinds of bifunctional carbon dots fluorescent sensor a‐CDs, b‐CDs and c‐CDs were prepared using 2,2‐di(prop‐2‐yn‐1‐yl)malonic acid as substrate, which are rich in carboxylic acid and conjugated structure. The morphology, chemical composition and optical properties of the prepared carbon quantum dots were characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X‐ray Photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), FTIR, X‐ray diffraction (XRD), UV‐vis spectroscopy and fluorescence (FL). They display excellent water solubility, thermal stability and salt resistance, and overcomes the loss of optical activity in the dry state, which have been applied to the detection of aqueous metal ions and anions. Among them, the fluorescence quenching of Hg2+ and Cu2+ by a‐CDs and b‐CDs is obvious, which can be used as a highly sensitive dual ion sensor. At the same time, it has a good recognition and detection effect on 0–12 ppm ClO− or MnO4−, and the detection limits are as low as 0.1209 ppm and 0.0574 ppm, respectively. In addition, chiral c‐CDs can specifically recognize Hg2+, and the synergistic effect of c‐CDs and Hg2+ can improve the recognition of chiral enantiomers.
Designing Highly Fluorescent BenzoCoumarin‐Sesamol Conjugates for Optoelectronic Applications
Authors: Madar Mahesh , Pujar Malatesh S. , A. H. Shridhar , Basanagouda Mahanthesh M. , Sidarai Ashok H.
Published: January 2024

In this report we have studied, the substitutional effect on photophysical properties of newly synthesized isomeric benzocoumarin‐Sesamol conjugates using absorption, steady‐state fluorescence emission, and time‐resolved emission measurements. The structural characterization of the synthesized dyes was carried out using FT‐IR, 1H‐NMR, 13C‐NMR, and MS. The ground state dipole moment of both the molecules in the gaseous phase is estimated from ab initio computations by using Gaussian 09W software and also from solvatochromic method and the results are compared. Stoke's shift exhibits a redshift with an increase in solvent polarity for synthesized indicating a π–π* transition. The HOMO‐LUMO energy gaps computed from density functional theory and absorption threshold wavelengths are found to be in good agreement with each other. The Global chemical reactivity descriptor parameter and electrostatic potential (MESP) plots suggest that molecules have strong electrophilic and nucleophilic sites. The preliminary photophysical observations and results suggest that the fluorescent dyes can be considered as potential material for the construction of solar cells, fluorescent probes, and chemosensors.
Synthesis, Characterization, Investigation of Anticancer Activity and Molecular Docking Studies of N2O2 Type Schiff Base Ligand and Metal Complexes
Authors: Türkmenoğlu Mustafa , Yıldırım Sümeyra Tuna , Altay Ahmet , Türkmenoğlu Burçin
Published: January 2024

Schiff base ligands and their metal complexes play a great important role in pharmaceutical sciences because of their wide and significant activities. They are versatile pharmacophores for the design and discovery of many drugs. In this study, a Schiff base ligand and its complexes were synthesized. Some spectroscopic techniques such as FT‐IR, 1H‐NMR, 13C‐NMR, XRD, SEM, and UV‐Vis were used for structural characterization. Antiproliferative activities of the synthesized ligand and complexes were investigated on the human breast (MCF‐7) and colon (HT‐29) cancer cell lines by XTT [2,3‐Bis(2‐methoxy‐4‐nitro‐5‐sulfophenyl)‐2H‐tetrazolium] method. The obtained data showed that the ligand and complexes exhibited dose‐dependent and cell‐selective in vitro antiproliferative activity on the tested cell line. In addition, it was determined that complexes showed statistically higher cytotoxic activity compared to the ligand. The binding parameter values and the important amino acids in the binding site were determined between the possible lead compounds synthesized by molecular docking from in silico approaches and the target. A molecular docking study of the cobalt complex was performed against Bcl‐2 (PDB ID:4IEH) and DNA recognition (PDB ID:423D) targets. In conclusion, these data show that the synthesized Schiff base ligand and metal complexes have the potential to be evaluated as a chemotherapeutic agent.
PTSA‐Mediated Bis 1,6‐Conjugate Addition of N‐Alkylcarbazoles and N‐Alkyliminodibenzyls to para‐Quinone Methides: Synthesis of Heterocyclic Bis Triarylmethanes
Authors: Sanjana Ramesh , Gurumurthy Palanivelu , Parthasarathy Kanniyappan
Published: January 2024

An efficient and simple PTSA‐mediated bis 1,6‐conjugate addition of N‐alkylcarbazoles, N‐alkyliminodibenzyls and hydroquinone to para‐quinone methides is discussed. This protocol is useful to prepare various bis‐triarylmethanes in good to excellent yields under mild reaction conditions with good functional group tolerance. It is important to mention that, these heterocyclic triarylmethanes are often used in the biological community.
High‐Throughput Miniaturized Synthesis of PROTAC‐Like Molecules
Authors: Tian Ye , Seifermann Maximilian , Bauer Liana , Luchena Charlotte , Wiedmann Janne J. , Schmidt Stefan , Geisel Alexander , Afonin Sergii , Höpfner Julius , Brehm Marius , Liu Xinyong , Hopf Carsten , Popova Anna A. , Levkin Pavel A.
Published: January 2024

The development of miniaturized high‐throughput in situ screening platforms capable of handling the entire process of drug synthesis to final screening is essential for advancing drug discovery in the future. In this study, an approach based on combinatorial solid‐phase synthesis, enabling the efficient synthesis of libraries of proteolysis targeting chimeras (PROTACs) in an array format is presented. This on‐chip platform allows direct biological screening without the need for transfer steps.  UV‐induced release of target molecules into individual droplets facilitates further on‐chip experimentation. Utilizing a mitogen‐activated protein kinase kinases (MEK1/2) degrader as a template, a series of 132 novel PROTAC‐like molecules is synthesized using solid‐phase Ugi reaction. These compounds are further characterized using various methods, including matrix‐assisted laser desorption ionization mass spectrometry (MALDI‐MS) imaging, while consuming only a few milligrams of starting materials in total. Furthermore, the feasibility of culturing cancer cells on the modified spots and quantifying the effect of MEK suppression is demonstrated. The miniaturized synthesis platform lays a foundation for high‐throughput in situ biological screening of potent PROTACs for potential anticancer activity and offers the potential for accelerating the drug discovery process by integrating miniaturized synthesis and biological steps on the same array.
Strategic Design and Insights into Lanthanum and Strontium Perovskite Oxides for Oxygen Reduction and Oxygen Evolution Reactions
Authors: Ingavale Sagar , Gopalakrishnan Mohan , Enoch Carolin Mercy , Pornrungroj Chanon , Rittiruam Meena , Praserthdam Supareak , Somwangthanaroj Anongnat , Nootong Kasadit , Pornprasertsuk Rojana , Kheawhom Soorathep
Published: January 2024

Perovskite oxides exhibit bifunctional activity for both oxygen reduction (ORR) and oxygen evolution reactions (OER), making them prime candidates for energy conversion in applications like fuel cells and metal‐air batteries. Their intrinsic catalytic prowess, combined with low‐cost, abundance, and diversity, positions them as compelling alternatives to noble metal and metal oxides catalysts. This review encapsulates the nuances of perovskite oxide structures and synthesis techniques, providing insight into pivotal active sites that underscore their bifunctional behavior. The focus centers on the breakthroughs surrounding lanthanum (La) and strontium (Sr)‐based perovskite oxides, specifically their roles in zinc‐air batteries (ZABs). An introduction to the mechanisms of ORR and OER is provided. Moreover, the light is shed on strategies and determinants central to optimizing the bifunctional performance of La and Sr‐based perovskite oxides.
Construction Strategy of Functionalized Liposomes and Multidimensional Application
Authors: Wang Chengyun , Lan Xinyue , Zhu Longjiao , Wang Yanhui , Gao Xinru , Li Jie , Tian Hongtao , Liang Zhihong , Xu Wentao
Published: January 2024

Liposomes are widely used in the biological field due to their good biocompatibility and surface modification properties. With the development of biochemistry and material science, many liposome structures and their surface functional components have been modified and optimized one by one, pushing the liposome platform from traditional to functionalized and intelligent, which will better satisfy and expand the needs of scientific research. However, a main limiting factor effecting the efficiency of liposomes is the complicated environmental conditions in the living body. Currently, in order to overcome the above problem, functionalized liposomes have become a very promising strategy. In this paper, binding strategies of liposomes with four main functional elements, namely nucleic acids, antibodies, peptides, and stimuli‐responsive motif have been summarized for the first time. In addition, based on the construction characteristics of functionalized liposomes, such as drug‐carrying, targeting, long‐circulating, and stimulus‐responsive properties, a comprehensive overview of their features and respective research progress are presented. Finally, the paper critically presents the limitations of these functionalized liposomes in the current applications and also prospectively suggests the future development directions, aiming to accelerate realization of their industrialization.
Application of Hole‐Selective Self‐Assembled Monolayers in Inverted Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Wang Guiqiang , Chen Kaifei , Cheng Long , Wang Dongsheng , Meng Fanning , Xiang Wanchun
Published: January 2024

Hole‐transport layer (HTL) is of paramount importance to construct high‐performance inverted perovskite solar cells (PSCs) because it not only determines the hole extraction and transport but also influences the quality of perovskite layer. Recently, self‐assembled monolayers are adopted as very effective hole‐selective layer to construct high‐performance inverted PSCs. Compared with conventional HTL, hole‐selective self‐assembled monolayers (HSSAMs) offer the benefits of minimal material consumption and parasitic absorption, simple and scalable processing, and the versatility in the interface modification. Through molecule design and coating process optimization, the high‐quality HSSAMs are obtained, which enable the HSSAM‐based inverted PSCs to achieve greatly promoted photovoltaic performance. Herein, the progress of HSSAMs used in inverted PSCs is summarized. First, the structure characteristics of HSSAM molecules are described. Then, the effect of the structure of HSSAM molecules on their function in boosting the device performance and stability is discussed. Furthermore, the deposition strategies to form high‐quality HSSAMs for inverted PSCs are analyzed. Finally, the advantages and challenges associated with application of HSSAMs in inverted PSCs are discussed, and the perspectives of the future research trends on HSSAMs for further promoting the performance of inverted PSCs are suggested.
Prostatic abscesses: clinical insights, diagnosis and management
Authors: Ravichandran Kapilan , Munien Kale , Sivabalan Pirathaban , Wang Yong G , Desai Devang
Published: January 2024

Prostatic abscesses are associated with significant morbidity if not recognised early. Although incidence and mortality have improved, occurrence of the disease is increasing in developing countries and among at‐risk patient groups. Here the authors discuss the diagnosis and management of the disease for which there is no standardised management protocol.
Ribosomal protein L24 mediates mammalian microRNA processing in an evolutionarily conserved manner
Authors: Tzur Yonat , Dubnov Serafima , Madrer Nimrod , Bar Adi , Nadorp Bettina , Mishra Nibha , Heppenstall Paul , Bennett Estelle R. , Greenberg David S. , Winek Katarzyna , Soreq Hermona
Published: January 2024

To investigate the mechanism(s) underlying the expression of primate-specific microRNAs (miRs), we sought DNA regulatory elements and proteins mediating expression of the primate-specific hsa-miR-608 (miR-608), which is located in the SEMA4G gene and facilitates the cholinergic blockade of inflammation by targeting acetylcholinesterase mRNA. ‘Humanized’ mice carrying pre-miR-608 flanked by 250 bases of endogenous sequences inserted into the murine Sema4g gene successfully expressed miR-608. Moreover, by flanking miR-608 by shortened fragments of its human genome region we identified an active independent promoter within the 150 nucleotides 5′ to pre-miR-608, which elevated mature miR-608 levels by 100-fold in transfected mouse- and human-originated cells. This highlighted a regulatory role of the 5′ flank as enabling miR-608 expression. Moreover, pull-down of the 150-base 5′ sequence revealed its interaction with ribosomal protein L24 (RPL24), implicating an additional mechanism controlling miR-608 levels. Furthermore, RPL24 knockdown altered the expression of multiple miRs, and RPL24 immunoprecipitation indicated that up- or down-regulation of the mature miRs depended on whether their precursors bind RPL24 directly. Finally, further tests showed that RPL24 interacts directly with DDX5, a component of the large microprocessor complex, to inhibit miR processing. Our findings reveal that RPL24, which has previously been shown to play a role in miR processing in Arabidopsis thaliana, has a similar evolutionarily conserved function in miR biogenesis in mammals. We thus characterize a novel extra-ribosomal role of RPL24 in primate miR regulation.

Graphical abstract
Spatiotemporal variability in the structure and diversity of understory faunal assemblages associated with the kelp Eisenia cokeri (Laminariales) in Peru
Authors: Uribe Roberto A. , Smale Dan A. , Morales Robinson , Aleman Solange , Atoche-Suclupe Dennis , Burrows Michael T. , Earp Hannah S. , Hinostroza Juan Diego , King Nathan G. , Perea Angel , Pérez-Matus Alejandro , Smith Kathryn , Moore Pippa J.
Published: January 2024

Kelp species function as foundation organisms in coastal marine ecosystems, where they alter environmental conditions and promote local biodiversity by providing complex biogenic habitat for an array of associated organisms. The structure and functioning of kelp forest ecosystems in some regions, such as along the Peruvian coastline, remain critically understudied. We quantified the structure and diversity of faunal assemblages within both holdfast and understory reef habitats within Eisenia cokeri forests. We sampled both habitat types within four subtidal kelp forests on multiple occasions between 2016 and 2020, and quantified fauna at a fine taxonomic level (mostly species). We recorded a total of ~ 55,000 individuals representing 183 taxa across the study, with holdfast assemblages typically exhibiting higher richness, abundance and biomass values compared with understory reef-associated assemblages. Holdfast assemblages were structurally and functionally dissimilar to those on reef surfaces and were less variable and consistent across sites and sampling events. Even so, assemblages associated with both habitat types varied significantly between sites and sampling events, with variation in upwelling strength, ocean currents, and grazing pressure among potential drivers of this ecological variability. Overall, E. cokeri supports diverse and abundant holdfast assemblages and functions as a foundation organism in Peru. Given that no other habitat-forming kelp species persist at the low latitudes of E. cokeri in mid-to-north Peru, the lack of functional redundancy suggests that effective management and conservation of this species is vital for wider ecosystem processes and biodiversity maintenance.
In vitro study: methylene blue-based antibacterial photodynamic inactivation of Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Zada Laiq , Anwar Shahzad , Imtiaz Sana , Saleem Muhammad , Shah Aamer Ali
Published: January 2024

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is one of the most antibiotic-resistant and opportunistic pathogens in immunocompromised and debilitated patients. It is considered the cause of most severe skin infections and is frequently found in hospital burn units. Due to its high antibiotic resistance, eliminating P. aeruginosa from skin infections is quite challenging. Therefore, this study aims to assess the novel in vitro antibacterial activity of methylene blue using a 635-nm diode laser to determine the effective power and energy densities for inhibition of P. aeruginosa. The strain was treated with various concentrations of methylene blue and 635-nm diode laser at powers of 300 mW/cm2 and 250 mW/cm2. The diode laser’s potency in the photo-destruction of methylene blue and its degradation through P. aeruginosa were also evaluated. Colony-forming unit (CFU)/ml, fluorescence spectroscopy, optical density, and confocal microscopy were used to measure the bacterial killing effect. As a result, the significant decrease of P. aeruginosa was 2.15-log10, 2.71-log10, and 3.48-log10 at 60, 75, and 90 J/cm2 after excitation of MB for 240, 300, and 360 s at a power of 250 mW/cm2, respectively. However, a maximum decrease in CFU was observed by 2.54-log10 at 72 J/cm2 and 4.32-log10 at 90 and 108 J/cm2 after 300 mW/cm2 of irradiation. Fluorescence images confirmed the elimination of bacteria and showed a high degree of photo-destruction compared to treatment with methylene blue and light alone. In conclusion, MB-induced aPDT demonstrated high efficacy, which could be a potential approach against drug-resistant pathogenic bacteria.

Key points

• Combination of methylene blue with 635-nm diode laser for antibacterial activity.

• Methylene blue photosensitizer is employed as an alternative to antibiotics.

• aPDT showed promising antibacterial activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
Water tunnel testing of downwind yacht sails
Authors: Souppez Jean-Baptiste R. G. , Viola Ignazio Maria
Published: January 2024

Downwind yacht sails, such as spinnakers, are low-aspect-ratio highly cambered wings with a sharp leading edge. They are characterised by substantial three-dimensional flow separation and are thus modelled with difficulty with numerical simulations. Furthermore, accurate full-scale validation data are not available. The first quantitative flow measurements have only recently been achieved in water tunnels. In this study, we aim to provide guidelines on this emerging sail testing methodology. We consider six model-scale rigid models at average-chord-based Reynolds numbers ranging from 5 870 to 61 870. A critical Reynolds number is identified, below which relaminarisation of the reattached boundary layer downstream of the leading edge separation bubble occurs. Both lift and drag increase monotonically at subcritical Reynolds numbers while remaining about constant at transcritical Reynolds numbers. The critical Reynolds number decreases with increasing incidence and is insensitive to the blockage ratio. Spinnakers are normally sailed in front of the mainsail, whose circulation is found to generate an approximately $$3^{\circ }$$

3
∘

upwash on the spinnaker and higher flow velocity on both sides of it. These findings provide guidelines for the experimental testing of spinnaker-like wings in water tunnels and provide new insights into the flow and experimental testing of highly cambered wings with massive flow separation at low Reynolds numbers.
Variable Selection for Hidden Markov Models with Continuous Variables and Missing Data
Authors: Pennoni Fulvia , Bartolucci Francesco , Pandolfi Silvia
Published: January 2024

We propose a variable selection method for multivariate hidden Markov models with continuous responses that are partially or completely missing at a given time occasion. Through this procedure, we achieve a dimensionality reduction by selecting the subset of the most informative responses for clustering individuals and simultaneously choosing the optimal number of these clusters corresponding to latent states. The approach is based on comparing different model specifications in terms of the subset of responses assumed to be dependent on the latent states, and it relies on a greedy search algorithm based on the Bayesian information criterion seen as an approximation of the Bayes factor. A suitable expectation-maximization algorithm is employed to obtain maximum likelihood estimates of the model parameters under the missing-at-random assumption. The proposal is illustrated via Monte Carlo simulation and an application where development indicators collected over eighteen years are selected, and countries are clustered into groups to evaluate their growth over time.
External laryngotracheal trauma: a case series and an algorithmic management strategy
Authors: Pincet Laurence , Lecca Gabriele , Chrysogelou Ioanna , Sandu Kishore
Published: January 2024

Objectives

External laryngotracheal trauma (ELT), blunt or penetrating, is a rare but potentially life-threatening injury. Immediate care in the emergency department can be challenging because it requires managing a potentially unstable airway and may have associated vascular injuries with massive bleeding. Here, we look at the details of injury, treatment measures, and outcomes in patients following ELT.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed 22 patients treated at our center for ELT from January 2005 up to December 2021 with varying grades of injury. We looked at their status at presentation, management strategy and functional status.

Results

In our report, we include 18 men and 4 women having varying Schaefer injury grades. Eight patients had tracheostomy at presentation and eight had vocal fold immobility. Two patients were treated endoscopically, 12 had open surgery and 8 received no treatment. Of the patients undergoing open surgery, thyroid cartilage fracture was seen in 9 patients, thyroid plus cricoid fracture and cricotracheal separation were seen in 3 patients each. All patients were safely decannulated and spontaneous recovery of vocal cord palsy was seen in some patients.

Conclusion

The success of managing ELT relies on fast decision-making, correct patient evaluation, securing the airway and maintaining the hemodynamic stability. Early surgical intervention must be aimed at optimally treating the larygotracheal injuries to prevent long-term disastrous consequences.
Application of clinical indicators in evaluating vestibular compensation efficacy in benign recurrent vestibular vertigo patients with short-term personalized vestibular rehabilitation
Authors: Wang Jinyu , Lei Yibo , Tian Liang , Zuo Jinjing , Shen Yayun , Wang Jing
Published: January 2024

Background

Short-term personalized vestibular rehabilitation (ST-PVR) can establish stable vestibular compensation. However, there is a lack of a clear definition for clinical indicators that can dynamically reflect the progress of vestibular rehabilitation (VR).

Objective

To explore the clinical indicators suitable for evaluating the effectiveness of ST-PVR in treating benign recurrent vertigo (BRV).

Methods

In total, 50 patients diagnosed with BRV were enrolled. All patients received the ST-PVR treatment program. At 2 and 4 weeks after rehabilitation, subjective scales, including the visual analogue scale (VAS), dizziness handicap inventory scale (DHI), activities‐specific balance confidence scale (ABC) and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD-7) were assessed. Objective vestibular function tests were performed. VR grading was determined.

Results

At 2 weeks after rehabilitation, significant enhancements were observed in VAS, DHI, ABC, GAD-7, UW, vHIT results, and VR grading scores (p < 0.05). The sensory organization test (SOT) results demonstrated statistically significant improvements at 2 weeks and 4 weeks after rehabilitation (p < 0.05).

Conclusion and significance

Both subjective scales and partial examination results in objective assessment can serve as indicators to dynamically monitor the compensatory process of vestibular function in patients with BRV. The VR efficacy grading score, which incorporates the above indicators, allows for quantification of the changes that occur during the vestibular rehabilitation process.
Rheb1 is required for limb growth through regulating chondrogenesis in growth plate
Authors: Zhang Yuwei , Wen Jiaxin , Lai Ruijun , Zhang Jiahuan , Li Kai , Zhang Yue , Liu Anling , Bai Xiaochun
Published: January 2024

Ras homology enriched in the brain (Rheb) is well established as a critical regulator of cell proliferation and differentiation in response to growth factors and nutrients. However, the role of Rheb1 in limb development remains unknown. Here, we found that Rheb1 was dynamically expressed during the proliferation and differentiation of chondrocytes in the growth plate. Given that Prrx1+ limb-bud-like mesenchymal cells are the source of limb chondrocytes and are essential for endochondral ossification, we conditionally deleted Rheb1 using Prrx1-Cre and found a limb dwarfism in Prrx1-Cre; Rheb1fl/fl mice. Normalized to growth plate height, the conditional knockout (cKO) mice exhibited a significant decrease in column count of proliferative zones which was increased in hypertrophic zones resulting in decreased growth plate size, indicating abnormal endochondral ossification. Interestingly, although Rheb1 deletion profoundly inhibited the transcription factor Sox9 in limb cartilage; levels of runx2 and collagen type 2 were both increased. These novel findings highlight the essential role of Rheb1 in limb growth and indicate a complex regulation of Rheb1 in chondrocyte proliferation and differentiation.
Nuclear resilient and redundant compute and communication integrated network
Authors: Periola A. A.
Published: January 2024

Future communication networks use computing platforms i.e., data centers for enabling content access. The operation of data centers is evolving to meet new requirements such as reducing the operating cost. The use of data centers is recognized to have significant challenges due to high operating costs. The high operating costs arises due to the necessity of data center cooling. The cooling costs can be reduced by siting data centers in the underwater environment. In the underwater environment, data centers are cooled by freely available cold water. However, siting data centers in the underwater environment exposes them to risk from other underwater applications. The use of underwater data centers is susceptible to service loss due to the launch of missiles from submarines in defense applications. Underwater data centers are susceptible to service loss from the launch of missiles from submarines. Hence, it is necessary to design a network architecture that ensures continued service delivery when nuclear attacks occur. The presented research proposes a novel network architecture enabling service continuity in the underwater data center. The proposed architecture incorporates resiliency and comprises terrestrial and non–terrestrial data centers. The proposed network architecture incorporates redundancy and utilizes terrestrial and non-terrestrial data centers. In addition, the research presents a protocol enabling co-existence between underwater data centers and missile launching submarines used in defence applications. The research formulates and evaluates the operational duration, number of packets forwarding paths, and computing resource utilization as the metrics. Performance evaluation shows that the proposed network architecture improves the operational duration and computing resource utilization by an average of (27.7–71.5)% and (23.5–44.2)%, respectively. Furthermore, the proposed network architecture enables the realization of more resilient paths. The use of more resilient paths enhances packet transmission. Evaluation shows that the proposed network architecture enhances the number of resilient packets forwarding paths by (18.2–57.4)% on average.
Clinical development of a blood biomarker using apolipoprotein-A2 isoforms for early detection of pancreatic cancer
Authors: Kashiro Ayumi , Kobayashi Michimoto , Oh Takanori , Miyamoto Mitsuko , Atsumi Jun , Nagashima Kengo , Takeuchi Keiko , Nara Satoshi , Hijioka Susumu , Morizane Chigusa , Kikuchi Shojiro , Kato Shingo , Kato Ken , Ochiai Hiroki , Obata Daisuke , Shizume Yuya , Konishi Hiroshi , Nomura Yumiko , Matsuyama Kotone , Xie Cassie , Wong Christin , Huang Ying , Jung Giman , Srivastava Sudhir , Kutsumi Hiromu , Honda Kazufumi
Published: January 2024

Background

We have previously reported apolipoprotein A2-isoforms (apoA2-is) as candidate plasma biomarkers for early-stage pancreatic cancer. The aim of this study was the clinical development of apoA2-is.

Methods

We established a new enzyme-linked immunosorbent sandwich assay for apoA2-is under the Japanese medical device Quality Management System requirements and performed in vitro diagnostic tests with prespecified end points using 2732 plasma samples. The clinical equivalence and significance of apoA2-is were compared with CA19-9.

Results

The point estimate of the area under the curve to distinguish between pancreatic cancer (n = 106) and healthy controls (n = 106) was higher for apoA2-ATQ/AT [0.879, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.832–0.925] than for CA19-9 (0.849, 95% CI 0.793–0.905) and achieved the primary end point. The cutoff apoA2-ATQ/AT of 59.5 μg/mL was defined based on a specificity of 95% in 2000 healthy samples, and the reliability of specificities was confirmed in two independent healthy cohorts as 95.3% (n = 106, 95% CI 89.4–98.0%) and 95.8% (n = 400, 95% CI 93.3–97.3%). The sensitivities of apoA2-ATQ/AT for detecting both stage I (47.4%) and I/II (50%) pancreatic cancers were higher than those of CA19-9 (36.8% and 46.7%, respectively). The combination of apoA2-ATQ/AT (cutoff, 59.5 μg/mL) and CA19-9 (37 U/mL) increased the sensitivity for pancreatic cancer to 87.7% compared with 69.8% for CA19-9 alone. The clinical performance of apoA2-is was blindly confirmed by the National Cancer Institute Early Detection Research Network.

Conclusions

The clinical performance of ApoA2-ATQ/AT as a blood biomarker is equivalent to or better than that of CA19-9.
Grading meningioma resections: the Simpson classification and beyond
Authors: Simon Matthias , Gousias Konstantinos
Published: January 2024

Technological (and also methodological) advances in neurosurgery and neuroimaging have prompted a reappraisal of Simpson’s grading of the extent of meningioma resections. To the authors, the published evidence supports the tenets of this classification. Meningioma is an often surgically curable dura-based disease. An extent of meningioma resection classification needs to account for a clinically meaningful variation of the risk of recurrence depending on the aggressiveness of the management of the (dural) tumor origin.

Nevertheless, the 1957 Simpson classification undoubtedly suffers from many limitations. Important issues include substantial problems with the applicability of the grading paradigm in different locations. Most notably, tumor location and growth pattern often determine the eventual extent of resection, i.e., the Simpson grading does not reflect what is surgically achievable. Another very significant problem is the inherent subjectivity of relying on individual intraoperative assessments. Neuroimaging advances such as the use of somatostatin receptor PET scanning may help to overcome this central problem. Tumor malignancy and biology in general certainly influence the role of the extent of resection but may not need to be incorporated in an actual extent of resection grading scheme as long as one does not aim at developing a prognostic score. Finally, all attempts at grading meningioma resections use tumor recurrence as the endpoint. However, especially in view of radiosurgery/radiotherapy options, the clinical significance of recurrent tumor growth varies greatly between cases.

In summary, while the extent of resection certainly matters in meningioma surgery, grading resections remains controversial. Given the everyday clinical relevance of this issue, a multicenter prospective register or study effort is probably warranted (including a prominent focus on advanced neuroimaging).
Sclerotherapy for hemorrhoidal disease: systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Gallo G. , Picciariello A. , Armellin C. , Lori E. , Tomasicchio G. , Di Tanna G. L. , Santoro G. A. , Alharbi M. , Sorrenti S. , Grossi U.
Published: January 2024

Background

This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of sclerotherapy methods for hemorrhoidal disease (HD) over the past 40 years.

Methods

The review followed the 2020 Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. A comprehensive literature search was conducted, including studies reporting the use of sclerotherapy in patients with HD. Study eligibility criteria were defined, and data were extracted independently by the authors. Random-effects meta-analyses were performed to assess outcomes of interest.

Results

Out of 1965 records identified, 44 studies met the inclusion criteria, involving 9729 patients. The majority of studies were conducted in Japan, followed by the UK, Italy, and Portugal. The median age of participants was 52 years, and the majority were male. The Goligher grade distribution indicated varying degrees of HD severity. Sclerotherapy was predominantly administered through anoscopy, with polidocanol being the most commonly used agent. The procedure was generally performed without pre-injection analgesia. The meta-analysis of 14 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) revealed that sclerotherapy was not inferior to control interventions in terms of success rate (risk ratio [RR] 1.00, 95% CI 0.71–1.41) and recurrence rate (RR 1.11, 95% CI 0.69–1.77), while resulting in fewer complications (RR 0.46, 95% CI 0.23–0.92).

Conclusions

This systematic review highlights the safety and efficacy of sclerotherapy for HD, which yields similar success rates and fewer complications compared to other conservative or surgical approaches. Further research is warranted to optimize sclerotherapy techniques and evaluate long-term outcomes.

Registration

PROSPERO 2023 CRD42023396910.