bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rational design of new small derivatives of 2,2'-Bithiophene as hole transport material for perovskite solar cells
Authors: ADADI Mohamed , HACHI Mohamed , SAID Khalid , HASSANI Anouar AMEZIANE EL , ZNAKI Jihane , ZNAKI Fatima Zahra , BENJELLOUN Adil TOUIMI , CHTITA Samir , ELKHATTABI Souad
Published: January 2024

Recently, photovoltaic research has focused on solar cells that use perovskite materials (PSCs). In this class of solar cells, hole-transport materials (HTMs) play a key role in improving the overall performance of PSCs. Due to the ultra-fast charge mobility of HTMs, which significantly enhances both optoelectronic and photovoltaic characteristics. Using Density Functional Theory (DFT) and Time Dependent DFT (TD-DFT) methods, this inquiry theoretically examines seven novel HTMs namely DFBT1, DFBT2, DFBT3, DFBT4, DFBT5, DFBT6, and DFBT7 based on the 2,2’bithiophene core for future use as HTMs for PSCs. The model molecule has been modified through substituting the end groups situated on the diphenylamine moieties with a tow acceptor bridged by thiophene, this modification was performed to test the acceptor’s impact on the electronic, photophysical, and photovoltaic properties of the newly created molecules. DFBT1 – DFBT7 displayed a lower band gap (1.49 eV to 2.69 eV) than the model molecule (3.63 eV). Additionally, the newly engineered molecules presented a greater λmax ranging from 393.07 nm to 541.02 nm in dimethylformamide solvent, as compared to the model molecule (380.61 nm). The PCEs of all newly designed molecules (22.42–29.21%) were high compared with the reference molecule (19.62%). Thus, this study showed that all seven newly small molecules were excellent candidates for a novel PSC.
Lessons learned from peer-led support groups for HIV-positive adolescents using a storytelling model in Côte d’Ivoire
Authors: N’goran Kouadio Marc , Katirayi Leila , Woelk Godfrey , Hayward Ashleigh , Holmes Randi , Ban Ignace Tosseu , Mukaminega Martha , Rodriguez-Diaz Carlos E.
Published: January 2024

Background
Adolescents living with HIV struggle to accept their HIV status and remain adherent to antiretroviral therapy (ART). Support groups are one method of assisting adolescents to overcome these barriers. This evaluation, conducted in health facilities in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, explored the acceptability of peer-led support groups using a ten-topic curriculum and a ‘storytelling’ model as a means of sharing information.
Methods
In-depth interviews were conducted with adolescents enrolled in peer-led HIV support groups, peer support group leaders, and health care workers. Data were collected on the percentage of adolescents that created treatment plans, and session and topic attendance, from six facilities providing peer-led support groups. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and translated. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis. A code list was created using a combined inductive and deductive approach. Transcripts were coded using MAXQDA v.12.
Results
A total of 45 in-depth interviews were conducted from August-September 2021. Participants reported that peer-led support groups are a critical lifeline for many adolescents. In the peer-led model, adolescents reported feeling more comfortable sharing their personal challenges and being able to better relate to the information through storytelling. Participants discussed the support and trust fostered in their group, both during and after the meetings. Peer-leaders set examples of medication adherence and the support group created a friendly motivated environment focused on staying healthy and maintaining low HIV viral loads. HCWs discussed improved communication and relationships with their adolescent patients. Challenges, such as scheduling, and transport costs affected adolescents’ ability to attend support groups. Most participants attended an average of six of ten sessions. The most attended sessions covered the topics of “Safe sex” and “Sharing HIV status.”
Conclusion
Peer-led support groups provide critical support to adolescents in accepting their HIV status. The support groups helped adolescents to learn the importance of ART adherence and create a supportive environment for them to live positively with HIV.
Lip2Text: Sentence-Level Lipreading on English Speakers Using the Deep Learning Approach
Authors: vineet Vineet Kumar Rakesh , akanksha Akanksha Agrawal , anushka Anushka Mishra , tapas Tapas Samanta , sarbajit Sarbajit Pal , Amitabha Amitabha Das
Published: January 2024

Lipreading is the skill of visually analyzing lip movements and facial cues to understand spoken language. This valuable skill finds application in assisting individuals with hearing impairments and providing auditory information in noisy environments. Advancements in deep learning have revolutionized lipreading with the use of networks such as Temporal Convolutional Networks(TCNs), Gated Recurrent Units(GRUs), Recurrent Neural Networks(RNNs) and Long Short Term Memory Networks(LSTMs) which perform exceptionally well on sequential data such as lip sequences. They excel at recognizing subtle lip movements of the speaker to predict what is being spoken. Most of the current approaches perform extremely well on speakers on which the model has been trained as they learn the speaker-specific visual cues thoroughly, but the obstacle lies in dealing with unseen speakers. To overcome this challenge, we have proposed a deep learning framework based on Long Short Term Memory Networks(LSTMs) and Spatiotemporal Convolutional Neural Networks (STCNNs) which focuses on accurately mapping lip sequences to their corresponding text trained on a multi-speaker dataset with unconstrained, open vocabulary. The model uses a Wav2Lip-GFPGAN(Generative Facial Prior- Generative Adversarial Network) network which converts the input video into a video of the dataset’s speaker speaking the same utterances using lip-synchronisation and then applied LipNet model for Lip-Reading after that applied spell corrector by using python Text-Blob library. This is a novel approach in the domain of lipreading which makes our model speaker-independent, increasing the applications of this work immensely in multiple fields, including assisting hearing-impaired individuals and enhancing communication accessibility. The other application of this proposed work may be lipreading of suspicious people from CCTV footage can potentially offer some benefits in certain security and investigative contexts. However, it's important to note that lipreading is a challenging task and often relies on various factors, including video quality, lighting conditions, and the same has been tackled in this work.
Experimental Investigation of Copper Matrix Hybrid Composite Reinforced with Sic/Gr/Cr via Stir Casting
Authors: girma mekonnen , Jiru Mora Gutu , Sinha Devendra Kumar , Alarifi Ibrahim M. , Girma Cherinet , Edacherian Abhilash , Gupta Gaurav , Ahmed Gulam Mohammed Sayeed
Published: January 2024

Copper matrix composites (CuMMC) overcome the constraints of pure copper by providing high strength, wear resistance, and corrosion resistance while maintaining excellent electrical and thermal conductivity. CuMMC is thus a promising material for a wide range of applications including heat exchangers, resistance welding electrodes, and maritime components. This study was aimed to fabricate silicon carbide reinforced copper matrix hybrid composite with addition of 1%Gr and 2%Cr to enhance good wettability between molten copper and solid reinforcement. Five samples were synthesized using stir casting with varying weight percentage of silicon carbide (0,3, 6, 9 and 12 wt.%) at 500rpm stirring speed, 30-minute stirring time and 1200 stirring temperature. Porosity percentage, hardness, electrical conductivity, compression strength and corrosion resistance properties of fabricated samples were investigated and analyzed. Test results demonstrated that the addition of SiC-Gr-Cr improved hardness and corrosion resistance when compared to commercial copper, however increasing the amount of reinforcement lowered electrical conductivity. The addition of SiC-Gr-Cr up to 12%wt enhanced compression strength, although when the amount of reinforcement approaches 15% wt., the compressive strength of the composite decreased due to an increased in brittleness.
The intestinal stem cell/enteroblast-GAL4 driver, escargot-GAL4, also manipulates gene expression in the juvenile hormone-synthesizing organ of Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Kurogi Yoshitomo , Mizuno Yosuke , Kamiyama Takumi , Niwa Ryusuke
Published: January 2024

Intestinal stem cells (ISCs) of the fruit fly, Drosophila melanogaster, offer an excellent genetic model to explore homeostatic roles of ISCs in animal physiology. Among available genetic tools, the escargot (esg)-GAL4 driver, expressing the yeast transcription factor gene, GAL4, under control of the esg gene promoter, has contributed significantly to ISC studies. This driver facilitates activation of a gene of interest in proximity to a GAL4-binding element, UAS, in ISCs and progenitor enteroblasts (EBs). While esg-GAL4 has been considered an ISC/EB-specific driver, its actual specificity remains unexplored. In this study, we reveal esg-GAL4 expression in the corpus allatum (CA), responsible for juvenile hormone (JH) production. When driving the oncogenic gene RasV12, esg-GAL4 induces overgrowth in ISCs/EBs as reported, but also increases CA cell number and size. Consistent with this observation, animals alter expression of JH-response genes. Our data show that esg-GAL4-driven gene manipulation can systemically influence JH-mediated animal physiology, arguing for cautious use of esg-GAL4 as a “specific” ISC/EB driver to examine ISC/EB-mediated animal physiology.
Interplay of Biocultural Diversity and Cultural Heritage: A Coupling Coordination Model Approach in Tiantai Mountain Area, China
Authors: Zhao Yanxuan , Wu Hui , Jin Hexian , Fan Yingjia , Wang Yifan
Published: January 2024

This research applies the Coupling Coordination Degree Model (CCDM) for an in-depth analysis of biocultural diversity in the Tiantai Mountain Area, emphasizing the intricate interplay between the mesoscale ecological environment and the societal dynamics of notable mountains. It conducts a quantitative assessment of the region's biological and cultural diversity: Biological diversity is examined through the lenses of species, ecosystem, and landscape diversity. Cultural diversity is gauged based on the spatial concentration of cultural heritage. The study uncovers a pronounced coupling and coordination between biological and cultural diversities, particularly in zones where cultural landscapes congregate and agricultural cultural heritage is preserved. Moreover, it elucidates the pivotal role of religious beliefs and traditional societal practices in the conservation of ecology and culture in these locales. The preservation and transmission of traditional crafts emerge as crucial for the sustainable evolution of local cultures and communities. Conclusively, the study proposes sustainable development strategies for renowned mountains and their adjacent communities. This work offers a novel framework for biocultural diversity research and management in mid-scale regions, validates the effectiveness of the CCDM in elucidating the interrelations between biological and cultural diversities, and provides innovative perspectives on showcasing cultural diversity in areas dominated by a singular ethnicity and language.
Characteristics of Resistivity Variation in Deep Granite and In-Situ Detection Applications
Authors: fu zhen , zhang yuezheng , ji hongguang , zhang chunrui , chen dongsheng , qin yuan
Published: January 2024

During the construction of deep vertical shafts, water inrush and flooding accidents are prone to occur, which seriously affect construction safety. Accurately determining the groundwater conditions is a prerequisite for effectively controlling water hazards and conducting risk management. In order to ensure the accuracy of the resistivity method in deep vertical well water exploration construction, a combination of indoor rock physics, mechanical testing, and on-site engineering measurements was used to analyze the influencing factors of granite resistivity. The corresponding relationship between resistivity and formation integrity was revealed, and water exploration experiments were conducted in the working face of deep underground mines. The results show that: (1) Rock resistivity is influenced by metallic minerals, saturation, temperature, ion content of fracture water, and joints. Regarding deep subsurface detection issues, the main factors affecting the detection results are water content and rock integrity. (2) During the loading process, rock resistivity exhibits significant stage response characteristics, which are closely related to rock integrity and damage accumulation. (3) A degradation model for aquifer zoning based on resistivity benchmark line was established. When the formation resistivity is higher than the benchmark line, it indicates a well-integrated formation with low water content. (4) Resistivity cloud maps and zoning degradation models can be used to visually determine and evaluate the occurrence status of formations and the effectiveness of grouting.
An adjustable and stable assistant-free anterior cervical retractor system for microscopy- assisted anterior cervical discectomy and fusion
Authors: Qian Hu , Lei Ting , He Li , Ao Jun , Qin Jianpu
Published: January 2024

Background
Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) is a standardized surgical strategy for treating cervical spondylopathy. This study aimed to introduce a newly developed retractor system and analyze its feasibility and safety in microscopy-assisted ACDF.
Methods
A newly developed retractor system was used in microscopy-assisted ACDF to treat patients with cervical spondylopathy. Demographic data and pre-, peri-, and postoperative clinical and imaging data were collected and analyzed retrospectively.
Results
A total of 48 patients were included in this study. Postoperative imaging data indicated sufficient decompression and good alignment. The Visual Analog Scale and Neck Disability Index score decreased preoperatively from 5.43 ± 1.12 and 29.77 ± 6.06 to 2.60 ± 0.78 and 11.75 ± 3.26 after surgery. The Japanese Orthopedic Association score increased preoperatively from 7.93 ± 1.37 to 12.22 ± 1.71 postoperatively. The C2–7 Cobb angles increased from 10.37 ± 6.79 to 14.58 ± 6.10 degrees after the procedure. No clinical or imaging-related complications were observed.
Conclusion
The newly developed retractor system showed good feasibility and safety for microscopy-assisted ACDF surgery, providing an option for clinical application.
Integrated Ensemble Strategy for Breast Cancer Detection using Dimensionally Reduction Technique
Authors: Ansari Zulfikar Ali , Tripathi Manish Madhava , Ahmad Rafeeq
Published: January 2024

Breast cancer continues to be a prominent issue in global health, requiring the implementation of novel approaches for the timely identification and assessment of the disease. Machine learning has been extensively integrated into the field of breast cancer diagnostics to gain profound insights and enhance the precision and efficacy of recognizing potential instances of breast cancer. Given the global nature of this disease, the early detection of cancer continues to pose a considerable problem. Our study introduces an ensemble strategy that integrates the results of Dimensionality Reduction (DR) approaches, namely Principal Component Analysis (PCA), Non-negative matrix factorization (NMF), and Value Decomposition (SVD), and subsequently inputs them into a resilient classification algorithm. In this study, we examine many algorithms, namely Logistic Regression (LR), Support Vector Machines (SVM), Random Forests (RF), Decision Tree (DT), and Multi-Layer Perceptron (MLP), to evaluate their diagnostic accuracy. Our findings show that MLP, LR, and SVM have a maximum accuracy of 97.9%, but MLP performance varies when used with NMF & PCA, which is 97.20%. LR also produced good accuracy with NMF and PCA, which is 97.9%, but again, performance is reduced when used with SVD. The SVM gives a consistent result with PCA, SVD, and NMF, which is 97.9%.
Knowledge and attitudes of health professionals towards medical Cannabis in Brazil
Authors: Salvo Carlos Alberto Fernandes , Sodero Ana Carolina Rennó , Gandra Mario
Published: January 2024

In Brazil, the regulation of the medicinal use of cannabis has fluctuated for many years. Patients often have difficulty finding doctors who will discuss or prescribe cannabis or its derivatives. In this study, 247 health professionals' opinion and knowledge of the medicinal use and the regulation of cannabis were analyzed through an online structured questionnaire, sampled by the snowball method. More than one third of the participants (34.41%) claimed that there was no legal use of Cannabis in Brazil. The health conditions better known as responsive to treatment, like epilepsy or nausea, were the most chosen. The knowledge about the legislation also oscillated and showed the participants' insecurity about the subject. However, almost 90% of participants were in favor of legalizing medical cannabis. The results point to the need for training these professionals on the subject, either in higher and vocational education or in continuous education further in their professional careers. This study was approved by the local ethics commission in Brazil (CAAE number 17506818.9.0000.5257).
In Situ Assembly of Melittin-PHA Microspheres for Enhancing Therapeutic Efficacy in Cancer Treatment
Authors: Fan Xueyu , Zhang Chao , Fu Shuangqing , Wang Shuo , Ma Shuo , Du Jie , Li Wei , Zhang Honglei
Published: January 2024

Amphiphilic cationic peptide (ACP) is a widely studied biofilm-active peptide that has great potential in cancer treatment. However, poor stability, a short half-life, and complex preparation pose significant challenges for practical therapeutic applications. In the current investigation, the amphiphilic peptide Melittin (Mel), recognized for its powerful anticancer properties, was chosen from natural and synthetic ACP, and integrated into a nanostructure by utilizing polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) microspheres as carriers to produce Mel-loaded PHA microspheres (Mel@PHA-PhaC). Mel@PHA-PhaC nanostructure was self-assembled in Escherichia coli, simplifying its preparation and making it more convenient and high-yield. Mel@PHA-PhaC were spherical, with a particle size of approximately 300 nm, as observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The concentration of Mel in Mel@PHA-PhaC was 4 µg/mg. Mel@PHA-PhaC still maintained good stability after being treated with pancreatic enzymes. Furthermore, in vitro experiments demonstrated that Mel@PHA-PhaC enhanced the inhibitory effect on cancer cells compared to free Mel. This study provides insights and guidelines for the development and utilization of peptide delivery systems using PHA microspheres to create stable and improved peptides for cancer therapy.
Fine mapping a QTL for BYDV-PAV resistance in maize
Authors: Schmidt Maria , Guerreiro Ricardo , Baig Nadia , Habekuß Antje , Will Torsten , Ruckwied Britta , Stich Benjamin
Published: January 2024

Barley yellow dwarf (BYD) is one of the economically most important virus diseases of cereals worldwide, causing yield losses of up to 80 %. BYD is caused by at least ten different phloem-limited viruses called BYD viruses (BYDVs) and Cereal yellow dwarf viruses (CYDVs). Means to control BYD are limited and the use of genetically resistant cultivars is the most economic and environmentally friendly approach. Maize plays a central role in the BYD infection cycle, serving as a reservoir for BYD-causing viruses and their vectors in summer. Growing BYD resistant maize varieties would reduce BYD pressure on maize and cereals.
Using two biparental mapping populations, we were able to reduce a previously published QTL for BYDV-PAV resistance in maize to ~0.3 Mbp, comprising nine genes. Association mapping and gene expression analysis further reduced the number of candidate genes for BYDV-PAV resistance in maize to two: Zm00001eb428010 and Zm00001eb428020. Predicted functions of these genes suggest that they confer BYDV-PAV resistance either via interfering with virus replication or induction of ROS signaling. The sequence of one of these genes, Zm00001eb428010, is affected by a 54 bp deletion in the 5`-UTR and a protein altering variant in BYDV-PAV resistant maize inbreds but not BYDV-PAV susceptible and BYDV-PAV tolerant inbreds. This suggests that altered abundance and/or properties of the proteins that are encoded by Zm00001eb428010 may lead to BYDV-PAV resistance.
Use of Machine Vision for Feedback Computation in Motion Control Systems
Authors: rahsepas keyvan
Published: January 2024

Machine vision systems use cameras to capture images and process image signals to interpret and analyze the received signals by computers or other signal processing devices. An important application of machine vision is to control the position of moving objects or the moving part of an object (e.g., a motor) using cameras (by image processing). Image processing is aimed at determining positions and transmitting relevant data via a processor to a controller (i.e., a digital control system) implemented on a microcontroller to control an actuator’s position. This study utilized the linear Lorentz actuator, as it has a simple structure, small size, and no clearance or output force fluctuation. The operating frequency of a system is also a key parameter because the execution time of a control process is directly associated with the system performance. The operating frequency is the frame rate, which is 60 Hz (60 fps). This study tracked the motion of a linear electromagnetic actuator, determined position and displacement in each frame, and calibrated the real position as the position feedback to implement a position controller for the actuator to eliminate the error signal (i.e., the difference between the real position and reference actuator position). Furthermore, a digital control system designed with two zeros and two poles along with an integrator was employed to eliminate the steady-state error.
First report of fludioxonil resistance isolate of Colletotrichum fructicola emerging on strawberry in Japan
Authors: Furuta Akiko , Ide Yoichi , Tashiro Nobuya , KUSABA Motoaki
Published: January 2024

The species composition of the strawberry anthracnose pathogen population in Saga Prefecture was investigated through phylogenetic analysis of the nucleotide sequences of the intergenic regions of the apn2 and MAT1-2-1genes. Here, 77 out of the 80 Colletotricum isolates used were classified as C. fructicola, and the remaining three were classified as C. siamense. The 77 C. fructicola isolates were tested for sensitivityto fludioxonil, which is widely used as the main fungicide in rotational programs in Saga Prefecture. High levels of resistance to fludioxonil were observed in 14 C. fructicola isolates tested for sensitivity to mycelial growth in fludioxonil-containing media. Furthermore, two inoculation assays using strawberry seedlings treated with fludioxonil were performed on five of the 14 isolates that showed high levels of resistance. The effectiveness of fludioxonil was significantly low in these isolates. To our knowledge, this is the first study to report fludioxonil resistance in a C. fructicola population.
Serum stratifin as a diagnostic and prognostic biomarker of acute exacerbation of interstitial lung disease
Authors: Sakuma Noriko , Abe Mitsuhiro , Ishii Daisuke , Kawasaki Takeshi , Arakawa Noriaki , Matsuyama Shinichiro , Saito Yoshiro , Suzuki Takuji , Tatsumi Koichiro
Published: January 2024

Background
Levels of stratifin (SFN), a member of the 14-3-3 protein family, increase in patients with drug-induced lung injury associated with diffuse alveolar damage (DAD). Therefore, we investigated its suitability as a biomarker of acute exacerbation (AE) of interstitial lung disease (ILD).
Methods
Thirty-two patients with clinically stable ILD (CS-ILD) and 22 with AE-ILD were examined to assess whether their serum SFN level was an effective biomarker of AE-ILD and whether its levels could predict prognosis in AE-ILD by analysing the survival rates at 90 days and 1 year after AE-ILD.
Results
Serum SFN levels were higher in the AE-ILD group than in the CS-ILD group (8.4 ± 7.6 vs. 1.3 ± 1.2 ng/mL, p < 0.001). SFN levels increased in patients who died within 90 days and 1 year compared with in patients who survived beyond these time points (13.5 ± 8.7 vs. 5.6 ± 5.3 ng/mL, p = 0.011 and 13.1 ± 7.5 vs. 3.1 ± 1.9 ng/mL, respectively; p < 0.001) in the AE-ILD group. The cut-off value for predicting the 90-day and 1-year survival was 6.6 ng/mL. The 90-day and 1-year survival rates were significantly better in the population below the cut-off value than in those above the cut-off value (p = 0.0017 vs. p < 0.0001).
Conclusions
Serum SFN level was higher in patients with AE-ILD than in those with CS-ILD and could serve as a biomarker for predicting the 90-day and 1-year survival rates in patients with AE-ILD.
Utility of patient-derived xenografts to evaluate drug sensitivity and select optimal treatments for individual non-small-cell lung cancer patients
Authors: wu lanxiang , wang xiaoqing , Zhu Ju , Li Lingling , Zhao Qilin , Huang Yutang , Wen Chunjie , Chen Dan
Published: January 2024

Non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the leading cause of cancer incidence histopathology and molecular genetics observed in NSCLC tissues. Patient-derived xenograft (PDX) is currently considered a preferred preclinical model to evaluate drug sensitivity, explore drug resistance mechanisms, and select individualized treatment regimens. Here, we successfully established 13 NSCLC-PDXs derived from 62 patients, including eight adenocarcinomas, four squamous-cell carcinoma, and one large-cell neuroendocrine carcinoma. Histological subtype and clinical stage were significant factors affecting the successful PDXs establishment. Histopathology, immunohistochemistry and whole exome sequencing confirmed that our PDXs accurately replicated the morphological and genetic characteristics of primary tumors. The treatment responses to conventional chemotherapy in PDXs were entirely consistent with that of their corresponding patients. According to the genetic status of tumors, more appropriate targeted agents were selected in PDXs for their corresponding patients as alternative treatment options. In addition, an PDX model with acquired resistance to osimertinib was induced, and the overactivation of RAS mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)-extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) signaling pathway caused by the dual-specificity phosphatase 6 (DUSP6) M62I mutation was found to play a key role in the development of osimertinib resistance. Trametinib, a specific inhibitor of the MAPK-ERK pathway significantly slowed down the tumor growth in osimertinib-resistant PDX models, providing an alternative treatment in patients after osimertinib failure.
Investigation of the molecular switching process between spin crossover states of triazole complexes as basis for optical sensing applications
Authors: Günther Axel , Deja Yves , Kilic Maximilian , Tran Kevin , Kotra Pavan , Renz Franz , Kowalsky Wolfgang , Roth Bernhard
Published: January 2024

With the advent of the first laser sources and suitable detectors, optical sensor applications immediately also came into focus. During the last decades, a huge variety of optial sensor concepts were developed, yet the forecast for the future application potential appears even larger. In this context, the development of new sensor probes at different scales down to the atomic or molecular level open new avenues for research and development. We investigated an iron based triazole molecular spin-crossover complex changing its absorption characteristics significantly by varying environmental parameters such as humidity, temperature, magnetic or electric field, respectively, with respect to its suitability for a new class of versatile molecular sensor probes. Hereby, besides the investigation of synthesized pure bulk material we also studied amorphous micro particles which were applied in or onto optical waveguide structures. The obtained results demonstrate the suitability of the material complex for a broad field of future sensor applications.
Effect of amino silane coupling agent on crystallization behavior of polyamide 612/glass fiber composites
Authors: Yeh Yu-Hsiang , Mao Hsu-I , Chen Chin-Wen , Rwei Syang-Peng
Published: January 2024

Amino silane coupling agents (0, 0.5, 1.0, and 2.0wt %) were added to polyamide 612 (PA612)-based composites reinforced with short glass fibers (GFs) to investigate the effect of the additives on the crystallization kinetics, which were tested using injection molding. The isothermal crystallization activation energies and the kinetic parameters of the crystallization processes of the samples were determined using the Arrhenius, Avrami, and Lauritzen–Hoffman models. The kinetic calculations revealed that the addition of a silane coupling agent significantly benefitted the GFs in terms of slowing down the isothermal crystallization rate of PA612. Moreover, treating the surface of GF-reinforced PA612 composites with a silane coupling agent induced optimum performance of the injection-molded PA612 parts. This is because the GFs enhanced the mechanical properties while the coupling agent delayed crystallization and improved the GF-substrate adhesion. Moreover, compared with a coupling agent-free PA612/GF composite, the activation energy of crystallization was reduced by a factor of over 1.5 from ΔEa -92.84 to ΔEa -163.55 J/mole with the addition of a coupling agent. The experimental results demonstrated that the PA612/GF composite with 1.0wt % coupling agent displayed the highest absolute value of crystallization activation energy (|ΔEa|).
Exploring the potential of three-layered self-assembled biomaterial-based dry powder inhaler for enhanced structural integrity and lung deposition of bioactive Lysozyme
Authors: Thakare Pradip , Chellampillai Bothiraja , Kuvar Vijaykumar , Shinde Vaibhav , Mali Ashwin
Published: January 2024

Aquasome (AQ) is one of the most recently developed self-assembled novel nanocarrier systems that is predominantly effective due to its property of maintaining the structural integrity of proteins, peptides, and delicate bioactive molecules. The objective of the present study was to investigate the feasibility of AQ as a carrier for dry powder inhalers (DPI) to achieve enhanced aerosol performance for Lysozyme (LYS). The water-in-water emulsification method was explored to prepare AQ by using gelatin and cellobiose. The lyophilized LYS-loaded AQ-based dry powder inhaler (DPI) (AQ/LYS-DPI) was evaluated and compared with commercial form of DPI (C-DPI) for its physicochemical properties, in vitro lung deposition, circular dichroism (CD), haemolysis assay, and toxicity study. The developed AQ/LYS-DPI had a particle size of 104.3 ± 3.8 µm, drug loading of 88.70 ± 2.4, and zeta potential of -8.4 mV with sustained release up to 18 h. The mass median aerodynamic diameter (MMAD) and fine particle fraction (FPF) of AQ/LYS-DPI were found to be 2.43 ± 0.27 µm and 61.52 ± 0.38 %, respectively, reflecting enhanced lung deposition. The CD, hemolytic activity, and toxicity study revealed better structural integrity and biocompatibility with no signs of inflammation or toxicity in the formulation. It was observed that the developed AQ/LYS-DPI effectively controls the structural integrity of lysozyme and can be explored as a novel carrier for pulmonary administration of bioactive molecules.
Vertically Integrated Unconfined Groundwater Flow On Sloping Base
Authors: Strack Otto Dirk Leo
Published: January 2024

We consider unconfined flow in aquifers with a small sloping base, a magnitude of no more than a few percent at maximum and aim the analysis to larg-scale regional modeling using analytic elements . We write the equations for the vertically integrated discharge, and find that the resulting two-dimensional discharge vector is rotational, as opposed to the specific discharge vector. We propose an approximate model for describing three-dimensional flow in an aquifer with a sloping base, and apply the approach to cases of flow between two parallel rivers and flow with a well in an aquifer bounded by a long river. We apply Wirtinger calculus and are able to estimate the error due to the approximation.
A novel resource aware distributed cooperative decision-making mechanism for connected autonomous vehicles
Authors: Ghahremaninejad Reza , Bilgen Semih
Published: January 2024

The need for a cooperative decision-making mechanism for a cluster of Autonomous Vehicles (AVs) is addressed to guarantee safety and decrease energy consumption and travel time. Centralized computation resource utilization cannot ensure the scalability of cooperative applications. This illuminates the need to make use of edge computing resources in the intelligent transportation system. This leads to the distributed implementation of decision-making mechanism for connected AVs. We introduce a novel Resource Aware Distributed implementation of Vector Evaluated Genetic Algorithm (RAD-VEGA) in the vehicular ad-hoc network of connected AVs as a collaborative decision-making algorithm. First, the collaborative decision-making problem is formulated for connected AVs as a Multi-Objective Optimization Problem (MOOP), considering energy consumption and collision risk reduction objectives. RAD-VEGA then solves this MOOP. Performance is evaluated by solving the ZDT1 test problem and comparing found Pareto-frontier solutions with the true front. Then, example cooperative AV planning scenarios simulated in CAVPsim and results of solving the MOOP by RAD-VEGA are discussed to show the effectiveness of the proposed solver.
A Novel Intersection - Cytomegalovirus Gastritis Following Cemiplimab and Talimogene Laherparepvec in a Patient with Advanced Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma: a Case Report
Authors: Egoryan Goar , Zimmet Alex , Yu Mingwei , Pozdol Joseph , Subramanian Aruna , Reddy Sunil , Nelson Joanna
Published: January 2024

Background
Immunotherapy, particularly immune checkpoint inhibitors, has revolutionized cancer treatment. While effective, these therapies sometimes result in immune-related adverse events and have been associated with infectious complications.
Case presentation:
A 63-year-old South Asian man with a history of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma, previously treated with cemiplimab and talimogene laherparepvec, was admitted to the hospital with dyspepsia of a six-month duration, anorexia, and a 20 kg weight loss requiring initiation of total parenteral nutrition. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy demonstrated extensive ulceration in the gastric antrum, and biopsy showed cytomegalovirus inclusions with positive immunohistochemistry. Additional immunologic studies failed to identify any underlying immunodeficiency state that might have predisposed the patient to cytomegalovirus infection. After seven weeks of intravenous ganciclovir, the patient reported significant improvement of his symptoms, and his total parenteral nutrition was discontinued.
Conclusions
This case highlights a rare instance of cytomegalovirus reactivation in a patient without prior immune-related adverse events or immunosuppressive therapy, challenging the current understanding of immune checkpoint inhibitors and their association with infections as well as contributes to the evolving landscape of oncology and infectious diseases in immunocompromised hosts, where the interplay between cancer therapy, immune modulation, and infection risk remains a critical area of study.
Comparison of the safety and effectiveness of the four-hook needle and hook wire for the preoperative positioning of localization ground glass nodules
Authors: Wang Yongming , Jing Lijun , Liang Changsheng , Liu Junzhong , Wang Shubo , Wang Gongchao
Published: January 2024

Background
With the implementation of lung cancer screening programs, an increasing number of pulmonary nodules have been detected.Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) could provide adequate tissue specimens for pathological analysis, and has few postoperative complications.However, locating the nodules intraoperatively by palpation can be difficult for thoracic surgeons. The preoperative pulmonary nodule localization technique is a very effective method.We compared the safety and effectiveness of two methods for the preoperative localization of pulmonary ground glass nodules.
Methods
From October 2020 to April 2021, 133 patients who underwent CT-guided single pulmonary nodule localization were retrospectively reviewed. All patients underwent video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) after successful localization. Statistical analysis was used to evaluate the localization accuracy, safety, information related to surgery and postoperative pathology information. The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical effects of the two localization needles.
Results
The mean maximal transverse nodule diameters in the four-hook needle and hook wire groups were 8.97 ± 3.85 mm and 9.00 ± 3.19 mm, respectively (P = 0.967). The localization times in the four-hook needle and hook wire groups were 20.58 ± 2.65 min and 21.43 ± 3.06 min, respectively (P = 0.09). The dislodgement rate was significantly higher in the hook wire group than in the four-hook needle group (7.46% vs. 0, P = 0.024). The mean patient pain scores based on the visual analog scale in the four-hook needle and hook wire groups were 2.87 ± 0.67 and 6.10 ± 2.39, respectively (P = 0.000). All ground glass nodules (GGNs) were successfully resected by VATS.
Conclusions
Preoperative pulmonary nodule localization with both a four-hook needle and hook wire is safe, convenient and effective.
Multimodal MRI lesion habitat-based radiomics analysis for preoperative prediction of spatial pattern in locally recurrent high-grade gliomas
Authors: Wang Han-wei , Zeng Lin-lan , Li Xiao-guang , Zhao Mi-mi , Li Xuan , Feng Ling , Xiang Ping , Chen Li-zhao , Tian Jing , Ran Qi-sheng , Yi Liang , Wang Shu-nan
Published: January 2024

Purpose
This study aims to preoperatively predict spatial patterns in locally recurrent high-grade gliomas (HGGs) based on lesion habitat radiomics analysis of multimodal MRI and to evaluate the predictive performance of this approach.
Methods
Our study included 121 patients with locally recurrent HGGs after maximum safe surgical resections and radiotherapy combined with temozolomide (training set, n = 84; validation set, n = 37). Local recurrence was divided into intra-resection cavity recurrence (ICR) and extra-resection cavity recurrence (ECR), according to the distance between the recurrent tumor and the surgical area or resection cavity. Radiomic features were extracted from the lesion habitat (T1WI enhancing lesion and T2WI/FLAIR hyperintense perilesional region) on contrast-enhanced T1WI and FLAIR, respectively. The LASSO was used to select radiomic features and calculate radiomics score. Logistic regression analysis was used to construct a predictive radiomics model, which was evaluated using calibration curves and the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC).
Results
Seven features with nonzero coefficients related to spatial recurrence patterns were selected. The radiomics score of patients with ECR was higher than that of patients with ICR in the training set [0.424 (0.278–0.573) vs. -0.030 (-0.226-0.248), p < 0.001] and in the validation set [0.369 (0.258–0.487) vs. 0.277 (0.103–0.322), p = 0.033]. The radiomics model demonstrated good calibration and performed well in predicting ECR, with AUC values of 0.844 in the training set and 0.706 in the validation set.
Conclusion
Radiomics analysis of lesion habitat can preoperatively predict spatial patterns in locally recurrent HGGs, providing a basis for determining personalized treatment strategies for HGGs.
Distribution on the Pattern, Incidence and Determinants of Sexually Transmitted Infections Among Patients Attending Adari Hospital, Hawassa City,Sidama Region, Ethiopia
Authors: Birmeka Melese , Bekele Damtew
Published: January 2024

Background: Sexually transmitted infections cause series medical and psychological health problems in Ethiopia and vary in different localities. Thus, study was aimed to investigate pattern, status and the association of sexually transmitted infections and local risk factors on the patients attending Adari hospital.
Methods: Institutional based cross-sectional study was carried out from September 2021 to June 2022.Systematic simple random sampling was used to select a total of 385 patients. In addition, a five years retrospective data were collected. Data were collected through blood test, urethral and vaginal discharge swabs, structured questionnaire, interview and observation. Variables with p-value less than 5% considered as significant.
Results: The overall prevalence of sexually transmitted infections was 74.4%. The odds of STIs in patients who were urban, single, presence of two and above sexual partners, illiterate, sexual intercourse without using condom, and sex after drinking alcohol and chewing khat were more likely to be infected with STIs as compared with their counter parts.
Conclusions: STIs were highly prevalent and one of health challenges of Hawassa city.
Partly Submerged Quarry in Andriake, the Port of Myra
Authors: Öniz Hakan , Çevik Nevzat , Çakır Çağlar
Published: January 2024

Ancient Lycia is a historical region with high archaeological potential that has been the scene of many civilizations for thousands of years. Many settlements, such as ancient Patara, Myra, and Phaselis, were established on these shores, and hundreds of shipwrecks such as the Kumluca, Uluburun, and Gelidonya Bronze Age shipwrecks have been found on this coastline. Aperlai, Theimussa, Simena, Dolikheste, and the Hellenistic-Roman ruins of Beymelek Lagoon constitute the archaeological settlements of Lycia that were submerged due to earthquakes. Earthquakes between the 1st and 5th centuries caused many collapses and slides on the Lycian coast. Underwater research conducted in 2022 and 2023 shows the collapses also affected a quarry on the coast. This sunken quarry is near Andriake, the port of the ancient city of Myra. Saint Nicholas I settled in Myra during the reign of Constantine (306-337) and became a bishop, causing Myra to be known throughout the Mediterranean. This article aims to understand the capacity of this Quarry near Andriake Port and the characteristics of the submerged part.
The effect of messaging about reductions in exposure to harmful chemicals on perceived risk of JUUL e-cigarettes
Authors: Shiffman Saul , Kim Sooyong , McCaffrey Stacey
Published: January 2024

Adults who smoke (AWS) who switch completely to e-cigarettes reduce their exposures to many harmful chemicals, suggesting that switching could reduce risk. AWS who believe e-cigarettes are less harmful than cigarettes are more likely to use e-cigarettes to switch away from smoking. Yet most AWS believe e-cigarettes are at least as harmful as cigarettes. This study assessed the effect on risk perceptions of communicating that switching can reduce exposure to harmful chemicals. In a randomized experiment, AWS (n=3485), dual users of cigarettes and e-cigarettes (DU; n=1756), and nonusers of tobacco (n=7316) viewed an ad for JUUL with or without a reduced-exposure message, and completed assessments of perceived risk (PR). Message exposure decreased PR of JUUL among AWS, while increasing PR of smoking, thus increasing the perceived risk differential between the two. Among DU, the message increased PR of smoking, but did not change PR of JUUL. Among nonusers, who rated the PR of all assessed tobacco products higher than did AWS and DU, the message decreased PR of JUUL, and did not affect PR of smoking. Accurate modified exposure communications have potential to shift the perceived risk differential of smoking and e-cigarettes in a way that could benefit public health.
Kurtosis assessment of cardiovascular disease risk caused by complex noise in coal mines
Authors: Du Yuanzhen , Tao Xinrong , Chu Fengjen , Zou Yuanjie , Wang Jia , Ding Yu , Mu Min
Published: January 2024

Objectives
This study aimed to investigate the relationship between noise kurtosis and cardiovascular disease risk while exploring the potential of kurtosis assessment in evaluating cardiovascular disease risk associated with complex noise exposure in coal mines.
Methods
A cross-sectional survey involving 1518 participants from the coal mining industry was conducted. Participants completed questionnaire surveys, physical examinations, and assessments of individual noise exposure levels. Individual cardiovascular disease risk was evaluated using the China-PAR algorithm.
Results
Among the participants, 95.03% were male, with a median age of 34.0 years. According to the cardiovascular risk assessment performed using the China-PAR, 637 individuals were classified as low risk, and 68 individuals were categorized as high risk. Notably, the group exposed to noise levels between 85 and 100 dB(A) exhibited a significantly higher risk compared to those exposed to noise levels < 85 dB(A). Regarding kurtosis (β), individuals with β < 3 were associated with low cardiovascular risk, while those with β > 5 had a high risk, with risk increasing alongside kurtosis. Correlation analysis indicated strong associations between noise kurtosis, cumulative noise exposure and cardiovascular disease risk, after accounting for individual age and service duration. Logistic regression analysis identified kurtosis and cumulative noise exposure as the primary influencing factors for cardiovascular disease risk (OR = 3.497, 1.644).
Conclusions
Given the pervasive presence of complex noise in the coal mining industry, kurtosis can serve as a valuable supplementary parameter for adjusting cumulative noise exposure, facilitating the assessment of cardiovascular disease risk associated with complex noise exposure in coal mines.
Differentiation of arc magmas and crustal growth: a Nd isotope perspective
Authors: Chiaradia Massimo
Published: January 2024

Arc magmas form new continental crust and are responsible for volcanic eruptions as well as for major metallic ore deposits. It is generally accepted that arc magmas are generated above subduction zones by partial melting of the mantle wedge and differentiate within the crust of the overriding plate through fractional crystallization, magma mixing and crustal assimilation. However, it is not clear in which proportions mantle and the above different intracrustal processes contribute to the broad geochemical variability of arc magmas. Here, using Nd isotope systematics and their geochemical modelling, I show that the thicker the crust of the overriding plate, the higher the assimilation rate of crustal rocks by mantle-derived magmas and the older the assimilated rocks. This highlights a systematic increase of crustal contribution to arc magma chemical and isotopic composition with the thickening of the overriding plate crust. The data presented are also consistent with growth and maturation of the continental crust through time by continuously increasing thickness, SiO2 content and Nd isotopically evolved composition.