bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High‐Sensitivity and Fast‐Response Photomultiplication Type Photodetectors Based on Quasi‐2D Perovskite Films for Weak‐Light Detection
Authors: Ma Guohua , Hou Yanna , Luo Zhenwang , Wu Junhui , Miao Yuchen , Yang Cheng , Wang Xu , Zheng Fei , Shafique Shareen , Zhao Feiyu , Hu Ziyang
Published: September 2024

Photovoltaic photodiodes often face challenges in effectively harvesting electrical signals, especially when detecting faint light. In contrast, photomultiplication type photodetectors (PM‐PDs) are renowned for their exceptional sensitivity to weak signals. Here, an advanced PM‐PD is introduced based on quasi 2D Ruddlesden‐Popper (Q‐2D RP) perovskites, optimized for weak light detection at minimal operating voltages. The abundant traps at the Q‐2D RP surface capture charge carriers, inducing a trap‐assisted tunneling mechanism that leads to the photomultiplication (PM) effect. Deep‐lying trap states within the Q‐2D RP bulk accelerate charge carrier recombination, resulting in an outstanding rise/fall time of 1.14/1.72 µs for the PM‐PDs. The PM‐PD achieves a remarkable response level of up to 45.89 A W−1 and an extraordinary external quantum efficiency of 14400% at −1 V under an illumination of 1 µW cm−2. The intrinsic high resistance of the Q‐2D perovskite results in a low dark current, enabling an impressive detectivity of 4.23 × 1012 Jones based on noise current at −1 V. Furthermore, the practical application of PM‐PDs has been demonstrated in weak‐light, high‐rate communication systems. These findings confirm the significant potential of PM‐PDs based on Q‐2D perovskites for weak light detection and suggest new directions for developing low‐power, high‐performance PM‐PDs for future applications.
Phosphorization of α‐Fe2O3 Boosts Active Hydrogen Mediated Electrochemical Nitrate Reduction to Ammonia
Authors: Hou Zhiang , Zhang Yixuan , Chen Hao , Wang Jinnan , Li Aimin , François‐Xavier Corvini Philippe
Published: September 2024

Inexpensive iron‐based materials are considered promising electrocatalysts for nitrate (NO3−) reduction, but their catalytic activity and spontaneous corrosion remain challenges. Here, the α‐Fe2O3 active surface is reconstructed by gradient phosphorization to obtain FePx with higher electrochemical activity. FeP2.0 optimizes the adsorption energy of NO3− and its reduction intermediates, meanwhile promote the generation of active hydrogen (*H) but inhibit its generation of H2. More importantly, Fe and P can serve as binding sites for NO3− and *H, respectively, which improves the electron utilization of NO3− deoxygenation and the efficiency of the subsequent hydrogenation for the selective synthesis of NH3. 91.7% NO3− conversion rate is achieved for the reduction of 100 mL 200 mg L−1 NO3−−N, 99.3% ammonia (NH3 selectivity (yield of 1.79 mg h−1 cm−2), and 91.4% Faraday efficiency in 3 h. The high‐purity solid NH4Cl is finally extracted by gas extraction and vacuum distillation (81.4% recovery). This study provides new insights and strategies for the conversion of NO3− to NH3 products over iron‐based electrocatalysts.
A new caenogastropod assemblage from the early Eocene of the Cambay Basin, western India, and its palaeoenvironmental implications
Authors: Banerjee Sayoni , Halder Kalyan
Published: September 2024

In this report we describe 32 species belonging to 26 genera of Caenogastropoda from the early Eocene Cambay Shale of the Cambay Basin, western India. This is the first report of gastropod fossils from this basin, and introduces 24 new species, 2 new subgenera and 3 new genera. The new genera, Eopreangeria, Indobatillaria and Pachycerithium, include new species Eopreangeria mangrolensis, Indobatillaria ismatae and Pachycerithium richardi. The new subgenera are Lyrispina in the genus Lyria and Carinotoma in the genus Apiotoma, including new species Apiotoma (Carinotoma) rammohani. The remaining new species are: Amaurellina cambayensis, Ampullina vastanensis, Amp.? eocenica, Ptychocerithium shamukum, Bittium purnimae, Bi. kamalae, Pseudobellardia sitae, Serratocerithium indicum, Potamides mosaliensis, Pot. shahensis, Sandbergeria khanae, Benthonella prosoclinata, Teinostoma maryae, Natica naroliensis, Involuta? ishwari, Rimella rokeyae, Siphonalia kalpanae, Si. pritilatae, Strepsidura reticulata and Amalda bibhae. A palaeoenvironmental analysis and the diversity–abundance pattern of this fossil fauna provide evidence of an overall marginal marine environment that experienced the Ypresian marine transgression and a gradual increase in marine influence.
Endemic evolution of Tethyan‐derived belemnites in North‐East Greenland: the middle Barremian Duvalia Event
Authors: Mutterlose Jörg , Alsen Peter , Picollier Marie‐Claire
Published: September 2024

Marine sequences on Wollaston Forland, North‐East Greenland have provided rich belemnite assemblages of Barremian (Early Cretaceous) age. Most common are belemnites of Boreal affinities, closely related to northwest European faunas. Remarkable are the findings of 47 rostra of Duvalia, a genus of Tethyan origin. In addition to Duvalia grasiana, Duvalia arctica sp. nov., Duvalia aff. silesiaca and Duvalia sp. have been recognized. Duvalia grasiana is well known from the Barremian–Aptian of the western Tethys. The other three taxa differ, however, morphologically from contemporaneous Duvalia species common in the Barremian of the Tethys. Our findings suggest a migration of D. grasiana to North‐East Greenland in the early Barremian and a subsequent in situ evolution of D. arctica in the Greenland Norwegian Seaway. Duvalia aff. silesiaca, second in abundance, most probably also evolved from a Tethyan precursor species (Duvalia silesiaca). The taxonomic affinities of Duvalia sp. remain unclear. Duvalia arctica, D. aff. silesiaca and Duvalia sp. are all characterized by small size, indicating an endemic evolution and adaptation to a well‐confined position in the food chain. The niche occupied by these small‐sized Duvalia species must have differed substantially to that occupied by co‐occurring Boreal belemnites, which have robust, stout rostra. The findings make North‐East Greenland part of a migration route from the Tethys via the north Atlantic to the high Boreal. The Duvalia Event corresponds stratigraphically to the middle Barremian warming.
An improved flexural design procedure of steel plate I‐girders considering elastic lateral torsional buckling at elevated temperatures
Authors: Rasoulnia Akbar , Broujerdian Vahid , Ghamari Ali
Published: September 2024

In the present study, an improved design method is proposed for the flexural design of steel plate I‐girders at elevated temperatures. The proposed method accounts for two important phenomena accompanying the temperature increase in steel I‐girders: (1) alteration of the failure mode and (2) degradation of the material properties. The main strategy of the proposed procedure is to find the ambient‐temperature‐equivalent design parameters of steel I‐girders at elevated temperatures. The basic design relationships are adopted from the flexural design provisions of AISC 360‐16 and then modified to accommodate the elevated temperatures and instability conditions of I‐girders. To evaluate the accuracy and efficiency of the proposed method, a comprehensive finite element study is conducted using ABAQUS. To this aim, 54 numerical models of steel plate I‐girders with different cross‐section slenderness parameters were investigated. All the simulated I‐girders were prone to fail in elastic lateral‐torsional buckling mode at both ambient temperature and elevated temperatures. To corroborate the numerical modeling and analysis process at ambient and elevated temperatures, the results were verified against the available experimental data. Based on the results, the maximum absolute deviation of the ultimate flexural strength obtained from the proposed method from the finite element predictions was 9%.
Novel outrigger element utilizing thin steel plates as infill to concrete frames in concrete high‐rise buildings
Authors: Habrah Alaa , Batikha Mustafa , Vasdravellis George
Published: September 2024

Rapid population growth and the need for sustainable land use have led to a remarkable increase in the construction of tall buildings. To accommodate the increasing need for floor space, high‐rise structural systems are being developed aiming to improve building performance against lateral loads. This paper introduces a novel steel‐infilled Reinforced Concrete Frame (SP‐RCF) outrigger and compares its structural performance against other systems, such as the Concrete Wall‐infilled Reinforced Concrete Frame and the Steel Truss‐infilled Reinforced Concrete Frame. A geometrically and materially non‐linear analysis was applied to these systems and validated through existing experimental and analytical data. Subsequently, a case study on a prototype tall building was conducted. The results indicate that the SP‐RCF outrigger shows superior performance compared to the other systems in terms of ultimate strength, stiffness, and ductility; demonstrating its potential to enhance the structural integrity of high‐rise buildings.
Built‐In Electric Field Boost Photocatalytic Degradation of Pollutants in Wastewater
Authors: Yu Yang , Qiao Zhiyong , Ding Changming
Published: September 2024

The photocatalysis technique shows significant potential for wastewater degradation; however, the rapid recombination of photogenerated holes and electrons severely limits its photocatalytic efficiency. This situation necessitates the development of effective strategies to tackle these challenges. One well‐documented approach is built‐in electric field engineering in heterojunctions or composites, which has been shown to enhance electron transfer and thereby reduce the recombination of electrons and holes. This strategy has proven highly effective in significantly improving photocatalytic activity for the degradation of pollutants in wastewater. In this context, we summarize recent advancements in built‐in electric field engineering in photocatalysts, highlighting the fundamentals and modifications of this approach, as well as its positive impact on photocatalytic performance in the degradation of wastewater pollutants.
Alkali surface modification of titanium for biomedical implants
Authors: Le Thi Tam , Nguyen Tung Viet , Nguyen Tuyen Thi Thanh , Vu Kien Dao , Le Toan Van , Nguyen Viet Xuan , Cao Xuan Thang , Vu Thuy Thi Phuong , Pham Vuong‐Hung
Published: September 2024

Nanostructures were successfully created on titanium (Ti) substrates through alkali treatment. By varying the concentration, temperature, and duration of the alkali treatment, different nanostructure surfaces were achieved on Ti. FE‐SEM analysis revealed a transition from a smooth to a nanoporous surface structure. The alkali treatment notably decreased the contact angle of Ti from 64° to 48°. Raman spectroscopy of Ti treated with 5 M NaOH at 80 °C for 24 h showed distinct titanate peaks at 188, 190, and 270 cm−1, confirming the formation of titanate compounds on the Ti surface. EIS measurements further demonstrated that the treated Ti exhibited reduced chemical activity, increased surface roughness, and porosity of approximately 40–50% compared to untreated Ti. In vitro biocompatibility tests using baby hamster kidney cells indicated positive cell attachment and proliferation after 72 h of culturing on the alkali‐treated Ti. These modifications enhance the surface properties and expand the potential applications of titanium in biomedical, industrial, and environmental technologies.
Simultaneously enhancing fire retardancy, acid and alkali resistance of polypropylene/aluminum trihydrate composite by microencapsulated red phosphorus
Authors: Li Wuhui , Li Jiaqi , Xing Haoqi , Wang Kang , Zhang Yunqi , Liu Jichun
Published: September 2024

The two obvious drawbacks of aluminum trihydrate (ATH) as a flame retardant to polymers are its low efficiency and poor resistance to both acid and alkali. To overcome these faults, ATH‐filled fire‐retarded polypropylene (PP) was modified by microencapsulated red phosphorus (MRP) and the flammability, acid and alkali resistance of the obtained PP/ATH/MRP composite were investigated. Results reveal that addition of 63 wt% ATH cannot impart V‐0 rating to PP in UL‐94 test, but incorporating 50 wt% ATH/MRP composite flame retardant can endow PP with V‐0 rating. ATH synergizes notably with MRP in enhancing fire retardancy of PP and the presence of suitable MRP can boost acid and alkali resistance of PP/ATH composite remarkably. The production of high‐quality char layer upon combustion is the key reason for improvement of fire retardance. MRP‐induced charring of PP is responsible for the heightened acid and alkali resistance of PP/ATH composite. This work offers a simple and cheap route to overcome the drawbacks of ATH and will expand the application field of flame‐retarded polymers with ATH.

Highlights

MRP synergizes notably with ATH in flame‐retarding PP.

Formation of high‐quality char layer answers for improved fire retardance.

Presence of MRP enhances chemical resistance of PP/ATH composite considerably.

MRP‐induced charring of PP is the root cause for enhanced chemical resistance.
Robust discriminant analysis
Authors: Hubert Mia , Raymaekers Jakob , Rousseeuw Peter J.
Published: September 2024

Discriminant analysis (DA) is one of the most popular methods for classification due to its conceptual simplicity, low computational cost, and often solid performance. In its standard form, DA uses the arithmetic mean and sample covariance matrix to estimate the center and scatter of each class. We discuss and illustrate how this makes standard DA very sensitive to suspicious data points, such as outliers and mislabeled cases. We then present an overview of techniques for robust DA, which are more reliable in the presence of deviating cases. In particular, we review DA based on robust estimates of location and scatter, along with graphical diagnostic tools for visualizing the results of DA.

This article is categorized under:

Statistical and Graphical Methods of Data Analysis > Robust Methods

Statistical Learning and Exploratory Methods of the Data Sciences > Clustering and Classification
DMRG study of the theta-dependent mass spectrum in the 2-flavor Schwinger model
Authors: Itou Etsuko , Matsumoto Akira , Tanizaki Yuya
Published: September 2024

Abstract

We study the θ-dependent mass spectrum of the massive 2-flavor Schwinger model in the Hamiltonian formalism using the density-matrix renormalization group (DMRG). The masses of the composite particles, the pion and sigma meson, are computed by two independent methods. One is the improved one-point-function scheme, where we measure the local meson operator coupled to the boundary state and extract the mass from its exponential decay. Since the θ term causes a nontrivial operator mixing, we unravel it by diagonalizing the correlation matrix to define the meson operator. The other is the dispersion-relation scheme, a heuristic approach specific to Hamiltonian formalism. We obtain the dispersion relation directly by measuring the energy and momentum of the excited states. The sign problem is circumvented in these methods, and their results agree with each other even for large θ. We reveal that the θ-dependence of the pion mass at m/g = 0.1 is consistent with the prediction by the bosonized model. We also find that the mass of the sigma meson satisfies the semi-classical formula, Mσ/Mπ = $$ \sqrt{3} $$

3

, for almost all region of θ. While the sigma meson is a stable particle thanks to this relation, the eta meson is no longer protected by the G-parity and becomes unstable for θ ≠ 0.
Massive gravity generalization of $$ T\overline{T} $$ deformations
Authors: Tsolakidis Evangelos
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Motivated by the two-dimensional massive gravity description of $$ T\overline{T} $$
T

T
¯

deformations, we propose a direct generalization in d dimensions. Our methodology indicates that all terms up to order d are present in the deformation. In two dimensions, $$ T\overline{T} $$
T

T
¯

is enhanced by a linear and a constant term, and exhibits an interesting behaviour regarding the deformed spectrum and correlators. At certain limits, this deformation can reduce to $$ T\overline{T} $$
T

T
¯

or $$ T\overline{T} $$
T

T
¯

+ Λ2 consistently. Using the massive gravity method, we obtain the classically deformed action of a sigma model of bosons and fermions interacting with an arbitrary potential, extending previous results. As a consequence, a proposal regarding the deformation of higher-derivative theories is made. Moreover, a standard dimensional reduction procedure is presented, with the resulting operator matching the form of prior findings under certain assumptions. In d ≥ 2, we provide the exact structure of the quadratic terms in agreement with previous approaches, as well as the structure of the linear and constant terms. All higher order contributions are not easily evaluated, yet we derive the complete answer for all cases up to seven dimensions. Under certain conditions, these terms vanish, resulting in a quadratic operator. The trace-flow equation for this family of deformations is also derived. Finally, we investigate the class of root-$$ T\overline{T} $$
T

T
¯

operators in various dimensions within the scope of this formalism.
Forensische Bildgebung der scharfen Gewalt
Authors: Hofer Peter , Ferling Christiane
Published: September 2024

Problemstellung

Die Beantwortung juristischer Fragen ist in der Rechtsmedizin alltägliche Routine. Die Rekonstruktion von Gewaltdelikten nach Angriffen mit scharfen und/oder spitzen Werkzeugen ist zumeist komplex und nur mit klassischen rechtsmedizinischen Methoden, wie z. B. der Obduktion, kaum mehr adäquat zu beantworten. Aus diesem Grund ist die klinische und postmortale Radiologie zur idealen Ergänzung in der Rechtsmedizin geworden.

Methoden und Verfahren

Während die klassische Röntgenuntersuchung für die Darstellung von Weichteilverletzungen ungeeignet ist und die Magnetresonanztomographie (MRT) zu teuer, zu aufwendig und auch nicht überall verfügbar ist, hat sich mittlerweile die Multislice-Computertomographie (MSCT) als Methode der Wahl in der forensischen Bildgebung bei der Beurteilung von Verletzungsfolgen scharfer Gewalt ergeben.

Vorteile

Die forensische Bildgebung, insbesondere die MSCT, bietet insbesondere nach Stichverletzungen eine unverzichtbare Ergänzung in der Rekonstruktion. So ist sie bei der Beurteilung von Stichkanälen, der Rekonstruktion von Tatabläufen oder der Beurteilung von (lebensgefährlichen) Verletzungen in vielen Fällen der klassischen Obduktion zumindest gleichgestellt, teilweise auch überlegen.

Empfehlung

Die forensisch-radiologische Begutachtung nach scharfen Gewalteinwirkungen erfordert Erfahrung sowohl auf dem Gebiet der Radiologie als auch der Rechtsmedizin. Eine enge Zusammenarbeit beider Disziplinen vorausgesetzt, kann sie ein wesentliches Mittel in der Versorgung von Gewaltopfern sein.
Insufficient correctness of package inserts for psychotropic drugs in Germany
Authors: Arning Adina , Seifert Roland
Published: September 2024

Package inserts often cause displeasure among patients as they are perceived as misleading and confusing. The aim of this study was to find out how comprehensible, complete, and truthful package inserts are formulated in Germany. 311 package inserts for antipsychotics (mGPCR antagonists) and antidepressants (NE/5-HT enhancers) from different manufacturers and dosages were analysed. The analysis criteria included the description of the effect, the warning of increased suicide risk, the explanation of interactions with co-medication, food and stimulants, as well as alcohol and the warning of impaired roadworthiness. In addition, the timeliness of the information regarding pregnancy and breastfeeding was checked and the symptoms mentioned under the topic of discontinuation symptoms and adverse drug reactions were compared. For most parameters, inconsistencies among various products, deficiencies and incorrect information were noted. This was particularly true for the items pregnancy and breastfeeding. Thus, package inserts for mGPCR antagonists and NE/5-HT enhancers need to be updated and standardised urgently. Such measures will reduce confusion among patients and increase drug adherence.
Oxytocin effects on socially transmitted food preferences are moderated by familiarity between rats
Authors: Noguer-Calabús Irina , Schäble Sandra , Dören José , Kalenscher Tobias
Published: September 2024

Rationale

In the socially transmitted food preference (STFP) paradigm, rats change their preference for food rewards after socially interacting with a conspecific who has been fed with the originally non-preferred food. Here, we asked if oxytocin (OXT), a neuropeptide known for its role in social affiliation and social behavior, plays a role in STFP. Since OXT’s influences on social behavior can be familiarity-dependent, we further asked if OXT effects on STFP are moderated by the familiarity between rats.

Objectives

Does OXT modulate rats’ socially transmitted food choices in a familiarity-dependent way.

Methods

We systemically injected either vehicle, low-dose (0.25 mg/kg) of OXT, or large-dose (1.0 mg/kg) of OXT before social interaction with either a familiar cagemate (in-group) or an unfamiliar conspecific from a different cage (out-group).

Results

We found an intergroup bias in STFP: vehicle-treated rats showed larger socially transmitted changes in food preference in the out-group than the in-group condition. OXT modulated STFP in a familiarity-dependent way: OXT prevented the increase in the consumption of the non-preferred food in the out-group, and decreased the consumption of the preferred food in the in-group. These effects were dose-dependent and observed under acute OXT action, but also on the subsequent day when acute OXT effects dissipated, suggesting long-lasting social learning effects of OXT. Additional analyses suggest that the familiarity and dose-dependent effects of OXT on STFP cannot be attributed to OXT’s anorexic actions or differences in the duration of the social interactions.

Conclusions

OXT modulates STFP in a familiarity-dependent way.
Short-term cortical activation changes associated with postural compensation in swallowing
Authors: Murray Kelsey L. , Wong Seng Mun , Kamarunas Erin
Published: September 2024

Compensatory strategies used to treat dysphagia, like the chin-down and chin-up positions, are often employed by speech-language pathologists to enhance swallowing safety. However, their effects on cortical neural responses remain unclear. This study aimed to investigate the cortical hemodynamic responses to swallowing across three head positions —chin-down, chin-neutral, and chin-up — using functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) in the bilateral precentral and postcentral gyrus regions of interest. Twenty-six healthy adults completed 32 swallows of 5 ml water in each head position. Results revealed short-term cortical activation increases for chin-up swallows compared to both chin-neutral (mean difference = 1.2, SE = 0.18, p = .048) and chin-down swallows (mean difference = 0.76, SE = 0.18, p = .009). These findings suggest that postural changes during swallowing induce immediate neural adaptations in people without swallowing difficulty. These modifications likely reflect the necessary sensory and neuromuscular adaptations required for safe swallowing in different head positions, with less hyolaryngeal movement needed for a chin-down swallow and more movement needed for a chin-up swallow. While challenging swallow conditions, like the chin-up, may offer promising therapeutic potential, caution is warranted considering the associated safety risk, and further investigation is needed. This study provides insights into the immediate effects of head positions on cortical activity during swallowing and highlights avenues for future research in dysphagia rehabilitation.
Symbiodiniaceae diversity in Pocillopora corals in different environments of the Colombian Eastern Pacific: symbiont specificity in spite of coral-host flexibility
Authors: Millán-Márquez Ana M. , Velasco-Montoya Dana A. , Terraneo Tullia I. , Benzoni Francesca , Bocanegra-Castaño Carolina , Zapata Fernando A.
Published: September 2024

Reef-building corals live in close mutualism with dinoflagellate algae (family Symbiodiniaceae), which play key roles in coral physiological performance and survival. Association patterns between host species and endosymbiont algae and their significance are still not fully understood, but they seem to affect the ability of hosts to inhabit different environments and their resilience to climate change. In this work, we used next-generation sequencing of the Internal Transcribed Spacer 2 region of ribosomal DNA to determine the diversity and composition of the Symbiodiniaceae community in Pocillopora corals from Colombia, in the Eastern Tropical Pacific (ETP). We sampled 243 colonies from four localities characterized by distinct sea surface temperature, turbidity, and proximity to the coast. Two genera of Symbiodiniaceae, Durusdinium and Cladocopium were found associated with Pocillopora mitochondrial Open Reading Frame (mtORF) types. Cladocopium latusorum was highly specific to Pocillopora mtORF type 1, while C. pacificum was found exclusively associated with Pocillopora mtORF type 3. In contrast, Durusdinium glynnii was found in both Pocillopora mtORF types. Furthermore, a Cladocopium-dominated symbiont community occurred in cooler and less turbid localities, while a Durusdinium- dominated community was found in localities with high sea surface temperature and high water turbidity, irrespective of mtORF type. These results suggest that Pocillopora mtORF lineages associate with different Symbiodiniaceae genera in response to local environmental conditions. The ability to associate with a different partner under particular environmental conditions (Pocillopora-Durusdinium combination), and also maintain a specific partnership (Cladocopium species and Pocillopora mtORF types) may be key to understanding the resilience of the genus Pocillopora on ETP coral reefs.
Prognostic value of ABO blood groups in upfront operated pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas
Authors: Joliat Gaëtan-Romain , Labgaa Ismail , Martin David , Vrochides Dionisios , Schäfer Markus
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) has been shown to have a lower incidence in patients with blood group O. It is currently uncertain if patients with group O have a better prognosis after pancreatectomy. This study assessed the overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) of PDAC patients who underwent upfront pancreatoduodenectomy based on ABO blood groups.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was performed including patients from two university centers. All consecutive head PDAC patients who underwent upfront pancreatoduodenectomy from 2000 to 2016 were included. OS and DFS were compared between blood groups A, B, AB, and O using Kaplan-Meier curves and log-rank tests.

Results

A total of 438 patients were included (215 women, median age 67). Pre- and intraoperative details were comparable between all subgroups. Median OS did not differ between the four blood groups (A: 23 months, 95% CI 18–28; B: 32, 95% CI 20–44; AB: 37, 95% CI 18–56 and O: 26, 95% CI 20–32, p = 0.192). Median DFS were also similar (A: 19 months, 95% CI 15–23; B: 26, 95% CI 19–33; AB: 35, 95% CI 15–55 and O: 22, 95% CI 15–29, p = 0.441). There was no OS difference between O and non-O groups (median: 26 months, 95% CI 20–33 vs. 25 months, 95% CI 20–30, p = 0.773). On multivariable analysis blood groups were not prognostic of OS. Only lymph node involvement, tumor differentiation, and adjuvant chemotherapy were independent prognostic factors.

Conclusion

OS and DFS were similar between all four blood groups after pancreatoduodenectomy. Independent predictors of OS were associated with tumor characteristics and adjuvant treatment.
A physics-informed kernel approach to learning the operator for parametric PDEs
Authors: Kurz J. , Bowman B. , Seman M. , Oian C. , Khan T.
Published: September 2024

Operator networks are neural networks designed to learn operators with special emphasis on solution operators for parameterized families of partial differential equations (PDEs). Once trained, operator networks can provide a solution to a PDE more quickly than current numerical PDE solvers by several orders of magnitude. Fourier neural operators (FNOs) and deep operator networks (DeepONets) are the two primary operator networks in existence for learning the solution operator to PDEs and have mostly only been applied to two-dimensional or three-dimensional problems, due to the computational expense of training networks in higher dimensional settings. The sole exception is a model-parallel FNO, which decomposes the function input domain space. We demonstrate a neural operator network with a physics-informed integral kernel that, once trained, is able to predict skin and ocular media’s time-dependent thermal response to incident laser radiation much more rapidly than existing numerical algorithms.
Complication rates after autologous cranioplasty following decompressive craniectomy
Authors: Ritter Leonard , Strohhäcker Kilian , Schebesch Karl-Michael , Eibl Thomas , Höhne Julius , Liebert Adrian
Published: September 2024

Objective

The reimplantation of autologous bone grafts after decompressive craniectomy (DC) is still up for debate. The objective of this study was to analyze the surgical revision rate for autologous cranioplasties in our center, aiming to identify predictors for procedure-related-complications.

Methods

A retrospective single-center study was conducted for adult patients who underwent autologous cranioplasty after DC. The primary endpoint was the complication rate in terms of surgical revision and removal of the bone graft: infection, new onset seizures, dislocation, haemorrhage, osteolysis, wound dehiscence and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) fistula. Demographic data, medical records, surgical reports and imaging studies were analysed and risk factors for complications were evaluated.

Results

169 consecutive patients were included. The median interval between DC and cranioplasty was 84 days. Mean age was 51 ± 12.4 years. 26 patients (15.3%) had revision surgery for following reasons. n = 9 implant dislocations (5.3%), n = 7 osteolysis (3.6%), n = 6 infections (3.6%), n = 5 had re-bleedings (3%), n = 5 wound dehiscences (3%), and n = 2 CSF fistulas (1.2%). 18 patients developed new seizures (10.7%). Bi- and multivariate analysis revealed three independent risk factors, simultaneous ventriculo-peritoneal (VP) shunting increased the risk for material dislocation (p < 0.001); large bone grafts (> 193.5 cm2) increased the risk for osteolysis (p = 0.001) and bifrontal cranioplasties were associated with higher risk for infections (p = 0.04).

Conclusion

The complication rates in our study were comparable to previously reported data for autologous or artificial cranioplasties. As osteolysis was correlated to larger bone grafts, a synthetic alternative should be considered in selected cases.
Evaluation of risk factors associated with the peritoneal flap hernioplasty for complex incisional hernia repair - a retrospective review of 327 cases
Authors: Nielsen Kristian Als , Tulloh Bruce , de Beaux Andrew , Pedersen Andreas Kristian , Petersen Sofie Ronja , Jogvansson Brandur , Ellebaek Mark Bremholm , Valsamidis Alexandros , Alnabhan Ayat Allah , Helligsø Per , Nielsen Michael Festersen
Published: September 2024

Background

Repair of large incisional hernias is challenging, and the risks of postoperative complications have been associated with obesity, smoking, and diabetes. The present study was conducted to determine the impact of these risk factors on short and long-term outcomes following the repair with the peritoneal flap hernioplasty (PFH).

Methods

Three hundred twenty-seven patients undergoing PFH for incisional hernia repair were identified. Patient demographics and clinical data were recorded. Patients presenting signs of complications were assessed during a visit to the outpatient clinic. A multivariable regression analysis was performed to evaluate the association between BMI, smoking and diabetes, and postoperative complications.

Results

The study included 157 males (48.0%) and 170 females (52.0%). Median BMI was 30.9 kg/m2. Diabetes was present in 13.8% of patients. 23.2% were active smokers. The recurrence rate was 2.4%. The odds ratios for postoperative complications were increased by 9% per BMI unit (P < 0.01), due predominantly to a rise in superficial wound infections (P < 0.01) and seroma production (P = 0.07). The adjusted odds ratio increased fourfold in patients with BMI > 40 kg/m2 (P = 0.06).

Conclusion

Incisional hernia repair with the PFH technique is associated with a low risk of short and long-term complications. The risk is associated with obesity and significantly increased in patients with a BMI exceeding 40 kg/m2, where a fourfold increase was observed predominantly due to seroma and superficial wound infections. The recurrence rate was 2.4% and was unaltered across BMI categories. No association was established between smoking, diabetes, and the risk of all-cause complications.
Exploring the power of data-driven models for groundwater system conceptualization: a case study of the Grazer Feld Aquifer, Austria
Authors: Kokimova Ainur , Collenteur Raoul A. , Birk Steffen
Published: September 2024

Developing a reliable conceptual model is crucial for analyzing groundwater systems. An essential part of the aquifer conceptualization is the identification of the hydrological stresses that control the hydraulic head fluctuations. By effectively capturing and understanding these stresses, the propagation of potential errors and uncertainties through subsequent modeling steps can be minimized. This study aims to test data-driven models as screening models for conceptualizing a groundwater system. The case study is applied to the Grazer Feld Aquifer in southeast Austria. Time series models are applied to: (1) identify the stresses likely influencing the observed head fluctuations and their spatial variability; (2) identify locations where a lack of understanding of head fluctuations exists; and (3) discuss the limitations and opportunities associated with data-driven models to support system conceptualization. Time series models were created for 144 monitoring wells where sufficient head observations were available during the calibration period (2005–2015). A total of 576 models were developed, incorporating the combinations of stresses: recharge, river level, and a step trend. Following the model selection process, each model was categorized based on its performance and divided into four groups. At 88 sites, recharge and river level variations were identified as the primary controlling stresses influencing head fluctuations. The inclusion of the step trend was found to be necessary at five sites to accurately simulate heads due to dam construction. The application of data-driven models in this study enhanced the identification of key aquifer stresses, facilitating a more informed understanding of the groundwater system.
An axiomatization of the Shapley mapping using strong monotonicity in interval games
Authors: Ishihara Shinichi , Shino Junnosuke
Published: September 2024

Interval games are an extension of cooperative coalitional games in which players are assumed to face payoff uncertainty. Characteristic functions thus assign a closed interval instead of a real number. In this paper, we focus on interval game versions of Shapley values. First, we modify Young’s strong monotonicity axiom for coalitional games into two versions so that they can be applied to the Shapley mapping and show that this can be axiomatized within the entire class of interval games using either version. Second, we derive the Shapley mapping for specific examples by employing two approaches used in the proof of the axiomatization and argue that our approach effectively works for a wide range of interval games.
Molecular screening of piroplasms and Anaplasmataceae agents in Hyalomma dromedarii ticks from camels over different seasons in Egypt
Authors: Elsawy Bassma S. M. , Abdel-Ghany Hoda S. M. , Alzan Heba F. , Abdel-Shafy Sobhy , Shahein Yasser E.
Published: September 2024

Piroplasmosis, a disease of domestic and wild animals, is caused by tick-borne protozoa of the genera Babesia and Theileria, while anaplasmosis is caused by tick-borne bacteria of genera Anaplasma. Hyalomma dromedarii is the most dominant tick species infesting camels in Egypt and act as a vector of piroplasms, Anaplasma, Rickettsia and Ehrlichia spp. The available information concerning the detection of these pathogens in H. dromedarii infesting camels is limited. The present study aimed to evaluate the status of these pathogens in H. dromedarii ticks over four seasons of a year, in addition to investigate the infections of piroplasms and Anaplasmataceae besides their genetic diversity starting from June 2021 till April 2022. A total of 275 semi-engorged females of H. dromedarii were collected from different slaughtered camels, Toukh city slaughterhouse then investigated by Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) to detect piroplasms (Babesia spp., Theileria spp.) and Anaplasmataceae DNA targeting 18 S rRNA and 16 S rRNA genes, respectively followed by sequencing and phylogenetic analyses. Overall, piroplasms were detected in 38 ticks (13.8%), Babesia spp. was detected in 35 ticks (12.7%), while Theileria spp. was detected in one tick (0.4%). Anaplasmataceae was detected in 57 ticks (20.7%). Mixed infections of piroplasms and Anaplasmataceae were detected in 13 ticks (5%). Single infection either with piroplasms or Anaplasmataceae was detected in 25 (9%) and 44 (16%) ticks, respectively. The highest monthly rate of piroplasms was in April (spring) and Anaplasmataceae was in July (summer). Sequence analysis revealed that Babesia bigemina, Wolbachia spp. and Anaplasma marginale are the most dominant species in the examined tick samples. To the best of our knowledge, this study confirms the presence of B. bigemina, Wolbachia spp. and A. marginale in H. dromedarii in Egypt by sequencing.
ZIP8 A391T Crohn’s Disease-Linked Risk Variant Induces Colonic Metal Ion Dyshomeostasis, Microbiome Compositional Shifts, and Inflammation
Authors: Yang Julianne C. , Zhao Matthew , Chernikova Diana , Arias-Jayo Nerea , Zhou Yi , Situ Jamilla , Gutta Arjun , Chang Candace , Liang Fengting , Lagishetty Venu , Jacobs Jonathan P.
Published: September 2024

Background

The pathogenesis of Crohn’s disease involves genetic and environmental factors, with the gut microbiome playing a crucial role. The Crohn’s disease-associated variant rs13107325 in the SLC39A8 gene results in an A391T substitution in the ZIP8 metal ion transporter and has previously been linked to alterations in the colonic microbiome in variant carriers. We hypothesized that the A391T substitution alters metal ion homeostasis in the colonic mucosal–luminal interface, thereby inducing dysbiosis which may promote intestinal inflammation.

Methods

To evaluate this hypothesis, we generated a SLC39A8 A393T mouse model (matching human A391T). We first examined trace element abundance in the colonic mucosal epithelium and lumen of homozygous A393T and wild-type (WT) mice to determine if the variant affected metal distribution. We also performed 16S rRNA gene sequencing on colon samples at 2 months, 3–4 months, and 12 months of age, and conducted histological scoring of colon tissue collected from 5-month and 10-month old mice.

Results

Consistent with an effect of the variant on ZIP8 function, homozygous A393T mice exhibited increased cobalt in the colonic mucosa, but reduced iron, zinc, manganese, cobalt, copper, and cadmium in the colonic lumen. 16S rRNA gene sequencing of colon samples revealed variant-linked effects on microbiome beta diversity in 2-month-, 3–4-month-, and 12-month-old mice. Histological scoring showed spontaneous intestinal inflammation in 10-month but not in 5-month-old mice. Lastly, predicted pathway analysis of the microbiome samples revealed differential enrichment of iron-, zinc-, and cobalt-dependent pathways in A393T mice compared to wild-type controls.

Conclusion

These results suggest that the variant in SLC39A8 primarily restricts metal availability to the microbiota, resulting in compositions that can adapt to the environment and that A393T-linked dysbiosis occurs prior to the onset of inflammation. This study paves the way for future studies investigating risk variants as microbiome-disease modifiers.

Graphical Abstract
Ruraling career guidance research and practice: learning from rural perspectives
Authors: Alexander Rosie , Fuqua Melyssa
Published: September 2024

Existing career guidance research and practice is based on urban, or metrocentric, models and assumptions, which are problematic for rural communities. In the field of education, researchers have argued that ‘ruraling’ scholarship can be beneficial in challenging existing metrocentric models and opening new ways of imagining practice. In this paper, we apply the concept of ‘ruraling’ to the field of career guidance, arguing that rural scholarship can reveal implicit spatial assumptions in existing models and approaches, challenge neoliberal and metrocentric discourses and re-envision career guidance in ways that are more inclusive and spatially sensitive.
Corneal densitometry measurements comparison between anterior segment OCT and scheimpflug imaging
Authors: Lupardi Enrico , Moramarco Antonio , Cassini Federico , Febbraro Simone , Savini Giacomo , Fontana Luigi
Published: September 2024

Purpose

To evaluate and compare the repeatability of corneal densitometry (CD) measurements obtained using both an anterior-segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT) device and a Scheimpflug camera system, while also assessing the level of agreement. The study also sought to investigate the correlation of CD with age, gender, and central corneal thickness (CCT) in normal eyes.

Methods

CD measurements were obtained using the Casia 2 and the Pentacam AXL Wave. Data were collected on Total Corneal Densitometry and 4 concentric corneal annular areas, these are referred to as zone 1, denoting the central area, through to zone 4, designating the outermost peripheral region. Repeatability was assessed using intra-session test–retest variability, coefficient of variation (CoV), and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). The agreement was evaluated using Bland–Altman plots. Correlation analysis was performed between CD, age, gender, and CCT.

Results

The study included 96 healthy volunteers. The Casia 2 demonstrated high repeatability with ICC values exceeding 0.9 in all the corneal zones and lower CoV values compared to the Pentacam AXL Wave (ranging from 1.07% to 2.25% for Casia 2 and from 1.91% to 6.89% for Pentacam).95% LoA were within ± 2 standard deviation from the average mean except from zone 1 (± 2.42).However, the measurements showed a consistent bias among all the corneal zones. CD values were positively correlated with age, except for zone 1 with the Pentacam (p = 0.083).

Conclusions

The findings suggest that the Casia 2 can be a reliable tool for assessing corneal transparency in healthy individuals, however its measurements are not interchangeable with those provided by the Pentacam. The AS-OCT device may be more sensitive in detecting subtle age-related changes in CD within the central zone.
A novel strategy to produce spherical SBA-15 by polymeric macrospheres as a template for drug delivery
Authors: Jaime-Escalante Betzabeth , Rolón-Ávalos Alejandro , Melgoza-Contreras Luz María , Leyva-Gómez Gerardo , Emparan-Legaspi María José , Mendoza-Muñoz Néstor
Published: September 2024

Mesoporous silica SBA-15 has been a material widely studied for drug delivery due to its high biocompatibility and chemical stability, its ordered mesoporous cavities allow drug loading. However, it has a non-spherical particle shape, making it difficult to use in solid dosage forms, where spherical particles are preferred for better flow and distribution. In this regard, this study presented a novel strategy to produce spheric SBA-15 using polymeric macrospheres of a pharmaceutical grade acidic-resistant copolymer (Eudragit®S) stabilized with Pluronic® 123, as a template. The macrospheres of Eudragit®S were fabricated using the double emulsion (W1/O/W2) solvent-diffusion technique and then were used as a template to synthesize macrospheres of SBA-15 following acidic hydrolysis. The physicochemical analysis revealed that the SBA-15 has a spherical morphology (SEM) with pores arranged in a hexagonal lattice (TEM). The XRD showed signals at 0.71, 0.88 y 2.03 °2θ, that were indexed at the Miller indices (100), (110), (200). Nitrogen adsorption-desorption isotherms (type IV, H3) demonstrated mesoporous characteristics with a pore size of 9.3 nm, a wall thickness of 3 nm, a pore volume of 0.7538 cm³g−1, and a surface area of 640 m²g−1. These SBA-15 macrospheres also showed a zero-order release of ibuprofen. The SBA-15 formation using Eudragit®S macrospheres suggests that P123 on the macrosphere acts as a spherical core, as shown by FT-IR analysis. The acid-resistant copolymer maintained macrosphere integrity, enabling the assembly of the SBA-15 mesostructure in a 24-hour manufacturing time under acidic conditions.
Determination of rare earth elements in ferrocarbonatite using ICP-AES and ICP-MS
Authors: Thangavel S. , Venkateswarlu G. , Durgaprasad A. , Sunilkumar Beena , Khuntia A. , Dash K. , Durani S.
Published: September 2024

A method has been developed for the determination of Rare Earth Elements (REEs) in ferrocarbonatite using Inductively Coupled Plasma—Atomic Emission Spectrometer (ICP-AES) and Inductively Coupled Plasma—Mass Spectrometer (ICP-MS). The conventional dissolution procedures are tedious, with large measurement uncertainty and are thus not suitable for certified reference material (CRM) production and exploration of REEs. The described method involves leaching of sample using 3 M HCl followed by dissolution of residue (silica and REEs) by HF then determined REEs using ICP-AES and ICP-MS. The leaching step prevents formation of fluoride precipitates of matrix (Ca, Mg, Ba and Al). The method has been validated using CRMs.
Using dynamic semantic structure of news flow to enhance financial forecasting: a twelve-year study on twitter news channels
Authors: Bodaghi Amirhosein , Zhu Jonathan J. H.
Published: September 2024

This research holds significance for advancing financial forecasting methodologies by shifting the focus from traditional sentiment analysis of individual tweets to exploring intricate semantic relationships within news tweets from top-followed news channels on Twitter. Addressing a notable research gap in financial forecasting, often dominated by sentiment analysis, our study endeavors to fill the void left by the underexplored intricate relationships within news entities and their dynamic semantic evolution. Motivated by the inherent challenges in predicting the random walk behavior of stock prices, we contend that incorporating longitudinal data derived from the semantic relationships between news entities can enhance the accuracy of stock market forecasts. The study pioneers a twelve-year exploration, encompassing data from 55 leading news channels on Twitter, boasting a collective following of 714 million users. The approach employs natural language processing (NLP) to extract two million unique entities, whose semantics are analyzed through complex network analysis, laying the foundation for the forecasting model. Finally, this research introduces a model linked to the dynamic semantic structure of news flow. The predictive model considers the impact of exogenous variables influenced by the evolving relationships among news entities. The results offer a proof of concept, highlighting the potential of utilizing dynamic semantic relationships among news entities for financial prediction. On average, the model demonstrates an improvement in accuracy of 40.3% across ten different stock price predictions. These findings are expounded through relevant theories, offering a theoretical foundation for observed patterns and indicating a promising direction for future research in this domain.