bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Water content and ground temperature variations in the active layer of a rock glacier in the Central Andes of San Juan, Argentina
Authors: López Martín Mendoza , Baldis Carla Tapia , Liaudat Dario Trombotto , Pastore Silvio
Published: June 2024

This paper analyses the response of the active layer between 2018 and 2020 in a typical rock glacier in the Central Andes of Argentina, in terms of volumetric water content and ground temperature variations. The period 2018–2020 coincided with the warmest and driest years of the last fourth decades in the Central Andes, reflected also in the reduced cooling periods, and decreased extent and duration of snow coverage. We performed sedimentological studies and calculations of thermal properties, along with measurements of water content and soil temperature in the top meter of soil within the active layer. Afterward, using the Coupled Heat and Mass Transfer Model for the Soil–Plant–Atmosphere System (COUP) model software, a number of selected parameters were adjusted to get the best correlation between measured and simulated data, using air temperature and precipitation datasets from global reanalysis models as inputs. This numerical model allowed to interpret the physical processes driven by thermal and hydrological fluxes within the active layer of rock glaciers in the Central Andes. During the autumn, we observed upward migration of moisture controlled by cryosuction at the freezing front. Maximum soil water content and downward moisture migration take place in the end of winter and during the spring, starting with snowmelt and seasonal ice thawing. However, the upper part of the active layer remained much drier than saturation over the simulation period (2018–2019). From the hydrological balance analysis, it is deduced that the studied soil profile receives some inflow of groundwater during spring and summer. Results contribute to better understand the Andean cryo‐lithozone and may be a reference to study other rock glaciers using little and accessible equipment.
New variants of COVID‐19 (XBB.1.5 and XBB.1.16, the “Arcturus”): A review of highly questioned concerns, a brief comparison between different peaks in the COVID‐19 pandemic, with a focused systematic review on expert recommendations for prevention, vaccination, and treatment measures in the general population and at‐risk groups
Authors: Pourriyahi Homa , Hajizadeh Nima , Khosravi Mina , Pourriahi Homayoun , Soleimani Sanaz , Hosseini Nastaran Sadat , Mohammad Arash Pour , Goodarzi Azadeh
Published: June 2024

Introduction

The COVID‐19 pandemic has taken many forms and continues to evolve, now around the Omicron wave, raising concerns over the globe. With COVID‐19 being declared no longer a “public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC),” the COVID pandemic is still far from over, as new Omicron subvariants of interest and concern have risen since January of 2023. Mainly with the XBB.1.5 and XBB.1.16 subvariants, the pandemic is still very much “alive” and “breathing.”

Methods

This review consists of five highly concerning questions about the current state of the COVID Omicron peak. We searched four main online databases to answer the first four questions. For the last one, we performed a systematic review of the literature, with keywords “Omicron,” “Guidelines,” and “Recommendations.”

Results

A total of 31 articles were included. The main symptoms of the current Omicron wave include a characteristically high fever, coughing, conjunctivitis (with itching eyes), sore throat, runny nose, congestion, fatigue, body ache, and headache. The median incubation period of the symptoms is shorter than the previous peaks. Vaccination against COVID can still be considered effective for the new subvariants.

Conclusion

Guidelines recommend continuation of personal protective measures, third and fourth dose boosters, along with administration of bivalent messenger RNA vaccine boosters. The consensus antiviral treatment is combination therapy using Nirmatrelvir and Ritonavir, and the consensus for pre‐exposure prophylaxis is Tixagevimab and Cilgavimab combination. We hope the present paper raises awareness for the continuing presence of COVID and ways to lower the risks, especially for at‐risk groups.
FSGT capsule inhibits IL‐1β‐induced inflammation in chondrocytes and ameliorates osteoarthritis by upregulating LncRNA PACER and downregulating COX2/PGE2
Authors: He Mingyu , Liu Jian , Sun Yanqiu , Chen Xiaolu , Wang Jue , Gao Wu
Published: June 2024

Objective

To explore the efficacy and potential mechanism of Fengshi Gutong capsule (FSGTC) in osteoarthritis (OA) inflammation.

Methods

The impact of FSGTC on laboratory indicators of OA patients was explored using data mining technology and association rule analysis. Then, the OA cell model was constructed by inducing chondrocytes (CHs) with interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β). In the presence of FSGTC intervention, the regulatory mechanism of PACER/COX2/PGE2 in OA‐CH viability and inflammatory responses was evaluated.

Results

Retrospective data mining showed that FSGTC effectively reduced inflammation indexes (ESR, HCRP) of OA patients. Cell experiments showed that LncRNA PACER (PACER) silencing inhibited the proliferation activity of OA‐CHs, increased the level of COX2 protein, elevated the levels of PGE2, TNF‐α, and IL‐1β, and decreased the levels of IL‐4 and IL‐10 (p < .01). On the contrary, FSGTC‐containing serum reversed the effect of PACER silencing on OA‐CHs (p < .01). After the addition of COX2 pathway inhibitor, the proliferation activity of OA‐CHs was enhanced; the levels of PGE2, TNF‐α, and IL‐1β were decreased while the levels of IL‐4 and IL‐10 were increased (p < .01).

Conclusion

FSGTC inhibits IL‐1β‐induced inflammation in CHs and ameliorates OA by upregulating PACER and downregulating COX2/PGE2.
Noninvasive cardiac hemodynamics monitoring of acute myocardial ischemia in rats using near‐infrared spectroscopy: A pilot study
Authors: Chen Sifan , Li Qiao , Pan Qinyu , Yin Qiuyan , Yue Liang , Zhang Peng , Chen Gong , Liu Weichao
Published: June 2024

Noninvasive and real‐time optical detection of cardiac hemodynamics dysfunction during myocardial ischemia remains challenging. In this study, we developed a near‐infrared spectroscopy device to monitor rats' myocardial hemodynamics. The well‐designed system can accurately reflect the hemodynamics changes by the classic upper limb ischemia test. Systemic hypoxia by disconnecting to the ventilator and cardiac ischemia by coronary artery slipknot ligation was conducted to monitor myocardial hemodynamics. When systemic hypoxia occurred, ΔHbR and ΔtHb increased significantly, whereas ΔHbO decreased rapidly. When coronary blood flow was obstructed by slipknots, cardiothoracic ΔHbO immediately begins to decline, while ΔHbR also significantly increases. Simultaneously, SpO2did not show any obvious changes during myocardial ischemia, while SpO2decreased significantly during systemic hypoxia. These results demonstrated that cardiothoracic hemodynamics stemmed from myocardial ischemia. This pilot study demonstrated the practicality of noninvasive, low‐cost optical monitoring for cardiac oxygenation dysfunction in rats.
Effects of solar radiations on stratum corneum hydration: Part II, protective action of solar filters
Authors: Assi Ali , Michael‐Jubeli Rime , Duplan Hélène , Baillet‐Guffroy Arlette , Tfayli Ali , Jacques‐Jamin Carine
Published: June 2024

The skin surface lipids (SSLs) film, composed of sebum and keratinocyte membrane lipids, is crucial to the barrier function of the stratum corneum (SC). The first part of this study investigated the impact of solar radiation on the SC based on a novel hydration and dehydration approach using Raman spectroscopy. The SSLs were found to absorb solar light, and thus participate to the protection of the skin surface. However, the protective function of the SSLs may be limited and is dependent to the heterogenous distribution of SSLs over the body surface. To ensure comprehensive protection, synergistic measures such as the application of solar filters are necessary. In this second part of the study, we have evaluated the limits of the protection capacity of SSLs and explored the protective action of a solar filters on both SSLs composition and the water hydration and dehydration kinetics in the SC.
Solvation model effects on the static first hyperpolarizability of a push–pull π‐conjugated molecule
Authors: Lu Shih‐I , Wang Bo‐Cheng
Published: June 2024

In this work, we presented the results of density functional theory calculations for the static first hyperpolarizability for one representative push–pull π‐conjugated molecule, 2‐dimethylamino‐7‐nitrofluorene, in six organic solvents (p‐dioxane, chloroform, tetrahydrofuran, acetone, acetonitrile, and dimethylsulfoxide) spanning a large range of dielectric constant. The finite‐field formalism was used to calculate the longitudinal component of the static first hyperpolarizability. The solvent effect was calculated using two distinct polarizable continuum solvation models: the linear response and the state‐specific polarizable continuum models. The calculations demonstrated the existence of solvation model effects on the property of interest, which warranted further analysis. The two‐level model was then employed to illustrate the impact of solvation model. Our findings suggested that the state‐specific polarizable continuum model gave a decrease of the dipole moment of the excited state in high polarity solvent for a bathochromic molecule whose excited state should have a larger polarization than its ground state.
Management of twin reversed arterial perfusion (TRAP) sequence with microwave ablation: A case report and review of the literature
Authors: Stellon Michael A. , Joshi Devashish S. , Beninati Michael , Antony Kathleen M. , Bohrer Justin , Hinshaw J. Louis , Monroe Eric , Winchester Casey , Lobeck Inna
Published: June 2024

Twin reversed arterial perfusion (TRAP) sequence carries a high mortality risk to the “pump twin.” Management involves disrupting blood flow to the acardiac mass. In this case, the pregnant patient presented at 20 weeks 6 days with Stage IIb TRAP Sequence and underwent percutaneous ultrasound‐guided microwave ablation (MWA) of the acardiac mass at 21 weeks 0 days. The probe traversed the thorax of the acardiac mass and ablated the confluence of the umbilical vessels. A healthy child was delivered at 33 weeks 5 days gestation. This report demonstrates the utility of MWA in TRAP sequence and describes a novel approach.
15N mass balance technique for measuring ammonia losses from soil surface‐applied slurries containing various additives
Authors: Schmidhalter Urs
Published: June 2024

Background

Anthropogenic ammonia emissions, primarily derived from agriculture, lead to air pollution, soil acidification, and surface water eutrophication, all of which adversely affect human health and ecosystems. Slurry treatment technologies in the form of additives represent an underutilized means of reducing gaseous emissions. Information regarding the potential of additives to reduce ammonia in soil surface‐applied slurries is scarce.

Aim

This study aims to develop a 15N mass balance technique to quantitatively measure ammonia losses from different slurries containing multiple additives that are applied to outdoor soil‐filled containers.

Methods

The experiments were performed under free‐air conditions. Isotopically labeled slurries from biogas, cattle, and pigs containing 18 additives were surface‐applied to soil‐filled containers and exposed for 72 or 48 h. The additives included inorganic and organic adsorbents, five amounts of sulfuric acids, molasses ± effective microorganisms, and water dilution. After termination of the ammonia loss period, a suite of soil preparation steps for the quantitative recovery of the labeled ammonium remaining in the soil was developed, and subsequently the loss of NH4‐N was determined.

Results

In the control treatments, ammonia losses from biogas, cattle slurries, and pig slurries averaged 54.4%, 33.9%, and 11.0%, respectively. The adsorbents did not decrease or only slightly decreased ammonia emissions. Ammonia abatement by sulfuric acid was nearly complete at pH values of 5.9 and 5.8 for the biogas and pig slurry, respectively, and about 80% at pH 5.2 for the cattle slurry. In comparison, more moderately decreased pH values with sulfuric acid showed a similar reduction as molasses and a 1:1 dilution for the three slurries. Adding microorganisms to the molasses did not further decrease ammonia losses.

Conclusion

The newly developed 15N mass balance technique, which allows a precise estimate of ammonia losses, can serve as a reference method to assess ammonia losses from field‐applied slurries containing various additives and as a standard comparison technique for other ammonia measurement techniques.
Low‐molecular‐weight reduced sulfur substances: A major component of nonvolatile dissolved organic sulfur in the Pacific Ocean
Authors: Fourrier Pierre , Dulaquais Gabriel
Published: June 2024

The low‐molecular‐weight (LMW) reduced sulfur substances (RSS) composition of dissolved organic matter (DOM) was examined along the GEOTRACES US‐GP15 section in the Pacific Ocean. We demonstrate that LMW RSS constitutes a significant fraction of nonvolatile dissolved organic sulfur (DOS). While thiols such as glutathione were below our detection limit (300 pM), RSS containing two carbon (C) sulfur (S) bonds were present at concentrations in the hundreds of nM range. RSS accumulation was observed in subtropical waters. The most likely source of these RSS is microbial alteration of sulfurized DOM with production of secondary thioamidated metabolites. RSS are initially produced by cyanobacteria to mitigate copper and oxidative stress induced by UV‐B irradiance. A preferential remineralization of RSS over dissolved organic carbon (DOC) in the upper 350 m suggests a partial lability of LMW DOS. Deeper, homogeneous concentrations and C : S ratio indicate increasing stability of this LMW DOS.
Harnessing the Regenerative Potential of Purified Bovine Dental Pulp and Dentin Extracellular Matrices in a Chitosan/Alginate Hydrogel
Authors: Gould Maree L. , Downes Nerida J. , Woolley Adele G. , Hussaini Haizal M. , Ratnayake Jithendra T. , Ali Mohammad Azam , Friedlander Lara T. , Cooper Paul R.
Published: June 2024

When a tooth is diseased or damaged through caries, bioactive molecules are liberated from the pulp and dentin as part of the natural response to injury and these are key molecules for stimulating stem cell responses for tissue repair. Incorporation of these extracellular‐matrix (ECM)‐derived molecules into a hydrogel model can mimic in vivo conditions to enable dentin–pulp complex regeneration. Here, a chitosan/alginate (C/A) hydrogel is developed to sequester bovine ECM extracts. Human dental pulp cells (hDPCs) are cultured with these constructs and proliferation and cytotoxicity assays confirm that these C/A hydrogels are bioactive. Sequential z‐axis fluorescent imaging visualizes hDPCs protruding into the hydrogel as it degraded. Alizarin red S staining shows that hDPCs cultured with the hydrogels display increased calcium‐ion deposition, with dentin ECM stimulating the highest levels. Alkaline phosphatase activity is increased, as is expression of transforming growth factor‐beta as demonstrated using immunocytochemistry. Directional analysis following phase contrast kinetic image capture demonstrates that both dentin and pulp ECM molecules act as chemoattractants for hDPCs. Data from this study demonstrate that purified ECM from dental pulp and dentin when delivered in a C/A hydrogel stimulates dental tissue repair processes in vitro.
Human Skin‐Mimicking Ionogel‐Based Electronic Skin for Intelligent Robotic Sorting
Authors: Xia Xuemeng , Cao Xinyi , Zhang Bao , Zhang Leiqian , Dong Jiancheng , Qin Jingjing , Xuan Pengyang , Liu Leyao , Sun Yi , Fan Wei , Ling Shengjie , Hofkens Johan , Lai Feili , Liu Tianxi
Published: June 2024

Creating bionic intelligent robotic systems that emulate human‐like skin perception presents a considerable scientific challenge. This study introduces a multifunctional bionic electronic skin (e‐skin) made from polyacrylic acid ionogel (PAIG), designed to detect human motion signals and transmit them to robotic systems for recognition and classification. The PAIG is synthesized using a suspension of liquid metal and graphene oxide nanosheets as initiators and cross‐linkers. The resulting PAIGs demonstrate excellent mechanical properties, resistance to freezing and drying, and self‐healing capabilities. Functionally, the PAIG effectively captures human motion signals through electromechanical sensing. Furthermore, a bionic intelligent sorting robot system is developed by integrating the PAIG‐based e‐skin with a robotic manipulator. This system leverages its ability to detect frictional electrical signals, enabling precise identification and sorting of materials. The innovations presented in this study hold significant potential for applications in artificial intelligence, rehabilitation training, and intelligent classification systems.
Incentive contract design for reducing carbon emissions in the supply chain under asymmetric information
Authors: Zhou Jianheng , Wu Bo
Published: June 2024

In light of the volatility of market demand and carbon trading prices, this study examines the effects of two carbon policies—the carbon tax policy and the cap‐and‐trade policy—as well as various information structures on the supply chain's carbon emission reduction incentives. A brand incentivizes the carbon abatement effort of an upstream supplier through a two‐part contract in the form of a fixed salary and a proportional incentive. We discover that, under some circumstances, the brand may benefit more from the unobservability of supply chain information. The brand bundles the risk of uncertainty with the supplier through the proportional incentive. In classical incentive contracts, only the cost is considered and the positive effect of risk conveyance is often ignored. In our study, the brand needs to investigate a trade‐off between the benefit of risk conveyance and the drawback of the incentive cost. On one hand, the proportional incentive characterizes the incentive cost. The brand increases the incentive intensity due to the unobservable effort of the supplier. On the other hand, it also has a risk conveyance effect. Specifically, the proportional incentive decreases with the correlation coefficient under the cap‐and‐trade policy. Additionally, there are situations in which consumer surplus benefits from the observability of supply chain information. However, supply chain information transparency is harmful to consumer surplus as supplier risk aversion increases.
Identification of 3‐ketocapnine reductase activity within the human microbiota
Authors: Wu Xiaotong , Hou Lukuan , Zhang Haili , Ma Yi , Wang Jufang , Cai Mingwei , Tang Xiaoyu
Published: June 2024

The microbial synthesis of sulfonolipids within the human body is likely involved in maintaining human health or causing diseases. However, the enzymes responsible for their biosynthesis remain largely unknown. In this study, we identified and verified the role of 3‐ketocapnine reductase, the third‐step enzyme, in the four‐step conversion of l‐phosphoserine into sulfobacin B both in vivo and in vitro. This finding builds upon our previous research into sulfonolipid biosynthesis, which focused on the vaginal bacterium Chryseobacterium gleum DSM 16776 and the gut bacterium Alistipes finegoldii DSM 17242. Through comprehensive gene mapping, we demonstrate the widespread presence of potential sulfonolipid biosynthetic genes across diverse bacterial species inhabiting various regions of the human body. These findings shed light on the prevalence of sulfonolipid‐like metabolites within the human microbiota, suggesting a potential role for these lipid molecules in influencing the intricate biointeractions within the complex microbial ecosystem of the human body.
Radiation safety of ultra‐high dose rate electron accelerators for FLASH radiotherapy
Authors: Præstegaard Lars Hjorth
Published: June 2024

Background

An ultra‐high dose rate (UHDR) electron accelerator for FLASH radiotherapy (RT) produces very intense bremsstrahlung by the interaction of the electron beam with objects both inside and outside of the accelerator. The bremsstrahlung dose per pulse is typically 1–2 orders of magnitude larger than that of conventional RT x‐ray treatment of the same energy, and for electron energies above 10 MeV, the bremsstrahlung produces substantially more induced radioactivity outside the accelerator than for conventional RT. Therefore, a thorough radiation safety assessment is mandatory prior to the operation of a UHDR electron accelerator.

Purpose

To evaluate the radiation safety of a prototype FLASH‐enabled Varian TrueBeam accelerator and to develop a general framework for assessment of all key radiation safety properties of a UHDR electron accelerator for FLASH RT.

Methods

Production of bremsstrahlung and induced radioactivity by a UHDR electron accelerator is modeled by various analytical methods. The analytical modeling is compared with National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) bremsstrahlung yield data as well as measurements of primary bremsstrahlung outside the bunker and induced radioactivity of irradiated thick targets for a FLASH‐enabled 16 MeV Varian TrueBeam electron accelerator. In addition, the analytical modeling is complemented by measurements of secondary bremsstrahlung inside/outside the bunker and neutrons at the maze entrance.

Results

Calculated bremsstrahlung yields deviate maximum 8.5% from NIST data, and all measurements of primary bremsstrahlung and induced radioactivity agree with calculations, validating the analytical tools. In addition, it is found that scattering foil bremsstrahlung dominates primary bremsstrahlung and the main source of secondary bremsstrahlung is the irradiated object outside the accelerator. It follows that primary and secondary bremsstrahlung outside the bunker can be calculated using the same simple formalism as that used for conventional RT. Measured primary bremsstrahlung tenth‐value layers for concrete of the simple formalism are in good agreement with NCRP and IAEA data, while measured secondary bremsstrahlung tenth‐value layers for concrete are considerably lower than NCRP and IAEA data. All calculations and measurements form a general framework for assessment of all key radiation safety properties of a UHDR electron accelerator.

Conclusions

The FLASH‐enabled Varian TrueBeam accelerator is safe for normal operation (max. 99 pulses per irradiation) in a bunker designed for at least 15 MV conventional x‐ray treatment unless the UHDR workload is much larger than the x‐ray workload. A similar finding applies to other UHDR electron accelerators. However, during beam tuning, radiation survey, or other tests with extended irradiation time, the UHDR workload may become very large, necessitating the implementation of additional safety measures.
The impact of patients' pre‐treatment expectations on immunosuppressive treatment outcomes in myasthenia gravis: A pilot correlational study
Authors: Frisaldi Elisa , Ferrero Bruno , Di Liberto Alessandra , Barbiani Diletta , Camerone Eleonora Maria , Piedimonte Alessandro , Vollert Jan , Cavallo Roberto , Zibetti Maurizio , Lopiano Leonardo , Shaibani Aziz , Benedetti Fabrizio
Published: June 2024

Introduction/Aims

The impact of treatment expectations on active treatment outcomes has not been specifically investigated in neuromuscular disorders. We thus explored in myasthenia gravis (MG) the contribution of patients' pre‐treatment expectations combined with an immunosuppressant drug on treatment outcomes.

Methods

This pilot correlational study involved 17 patients with generalized MG, scheduled to start immunosuppressant azathioprine. At baseline, a healthcare professional administered: (i) the Stanford Expectations of Treatment Scale; (ii) a structured checklist paper form asking patients which side‐effects they expected to develop after starting azathioprine, coupled with a standardized framing of statements. Quantitative Myasthenia Gravis (QMG) score and daily dose of concomitant drugs were assessed by neurologists as clinical outcomes. Clinical outcomes and side‐effects were re‐assessed at 3 and 6 months, and clinical outcomes were monitored at 18 months.

Results

Clinically significant improvement in the QMG scores was achieved at 3 or 6 months. The level of state anxiety appeared to act as moderator of pre‐treatment negative expectations (strong, positive, indicative correlation, rs = .733, p = .001). The latter were, in turn, associated with the fulfillment of side‐effects that patients expected to develop with the new treatment (moderate, positive, indicative correlation, rs = .699, p = .002). No significant correlation emerged between positive and negative expectations.

Discussion

Our findings show a very quick clinical response and also suggest that patients' expectations and anxiety contributed to treatment outcomes, highlighting the importance of promoting safety messages and education strategies around newly introduced treatments. Future goals include evaluating a larger cohort that includes a matched control group.
Finite variation sensitivity analysis in the design of isotropic metamaterials through discrete topology optimization
Authors: Cunha Daniel Candeloro , Pavanello Renato
Published: June 2024

This article extends recently developed finite variation sensitivity analysis (FVSA) approaches to an inverse homogenization problem. The design of metamaterials with prescribed mechanical properties is stated as a discrete density‐based topology optimization problem, in which the design variables define the microstructure of the periodic base cell. The FVSA consists in estimating the finite variations of the objective and constraint functions after independently switching the state of each variable. It is used to properly linearize the functions of binary variables so the optimization problem can be solved through sequential integer linear programming. Novel sensitivity expressions were developed and it was shown that they are more accurate than the ones conventionally used in literature. Referred to as the conjugate gradient sensitivity (CGS) approach, the proposed strategy was quantitatively evaluated through numerical examples. In these examples, metamaterials with prescribed homogenized Poisson's ratios and minimal homogenized Young's moduli were obtained. A hexagonal base cell with dihedral symmetry was used to produce only metamaterials with isotropic properties. It was shown that, by using the CGS approach instead of the conventional sensitivity analysis, the sensitivity error was substantially reduced for the considered problem. The proposed developments effectively improved the stability and robustness of the discrete optimization procedures. In all the considered examples, when more accurate sensitivity analyses were performed, the parameters of the topology optimization method could be tuned more easily, yielding effective solutions even if the settings were not ideal.
Understanding the treatment experiences of adults diagnosed with early‐onset colorectal cancer: A qualitative study
Authors: Russell Ashleigh C. , Reid Helen , Coleman Helen G. , Santin Olinda
Published: June 2024

Objective

Early‐onset colorectal cancer (CRC) incidence in adults aged under 50 is increasing. There is a critical lack of knowledge regarding the challenges faced by early‐onset CRC patients and their experiences of treatment. The aim of this study was to explore the lived experiences of individuals receiving treatment for early‐onset CRC, and the resulting impact on their lives.

Methods

Semi‐structured interviews of patients with early‐onset CRC in the UK (n = 21) were conducted from August 2021 to March 2022. Interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim. Data were analysed using thematic analysis.

Results

Results identified four key themes: (1) early‐onset CRC treatment results in sudden physical, psychological and social impacts in all aspects of life; (2) early‐onset CRC patients have unique supportive care needs which are not recognised in current practice; (3) there is a need for tailored information; (4) a lack of support was identified in the areas of mental health, sexual health and fertility.

Conclusions

Our study highlights numerous unique issues experienced by the early‐onset CRC patient group during treatment. There is a need for change in clinical practice, along with the development of international guidelines and tailored resources for both patients and healthcare professionals, in order to improve care.
Dielectric barrier discharge plasma: A green and novel method to change the structure of taro peel starch and improve the physicochemical properties of taro peel starch films
Authors: Gupta Rakesh Kumar , Guha Proshanta , Srivastav Prem Prakash
Published: June 2024

The present study examined the impact of dielectric barrier discharge cold plasma treatment on the physicochemical characteristics of taro peel starch (TPS) and its films. This work reports for the first time on using native and modified TPS in the casting procedure to develop packaging films. The results showed that, as plasma exposure voltage and treatment time prolonged, the pH, 955 cm−1/1022 cm−1, % crystallinity, and turbidity of TPS significantly decreased, while amylose content, solubility, and 1047 cm−1/1022 cm−1 of TPS increased considerably. Despite this, modified TPS‐based films have comparatively smooth and homogeneous surfaces. Moreover, the modified starch‐based film exhibited the lowest water vapor permeability, elongation at break, and solubility, while highest opacity and tensile strength.
Developing GeSbTe Superlattice Through Understanding of the Reversible Phases and Engineering Its Interspaces
Authors: Lim Hyeonwook , Lee Chang Woo , Kim Dasol , Cho Mann‐Ho
Published: June 2024

Interfacial phase‐change materials (iPCM), which are alternatively stacked with GeTe and Sb2Te3in the superlattice structure, have been highlighted as next‐generation PCM with improved overall phase‐change characteristics. However, several studies have reported that a melt‐quenching process, whereby the initial superlattice structure is not maintained within the reversible switching process, rather than the initially proposed melting‐free phase‐change mechanism, occurs during operation. Herein, GeSbTe superlattices are synthesized using molecular beam epitaxy, and the reversible phases of the superlattice obtained by irradiation with an optical pulsed laser (KrF; 280 nm, 25 ns) and re‐annealing or by applying different electrical pulses are investigated through careful structural analyses. The results revealed that Te atoms are aligned parallel to the interface regardless of the reversible phase, whereas cations and inherent vacancies are distributed differently during the phase‐change process. The stability of memory cells with cycling operations can be enhanced by enriching inherent vacancies, and the switching energy can be reduced by expanding the interspaces via doping engineering.
A 2D Metal‐Free Inorganic Covalent Framework: Synthesis, Crystal Structure, and Room‐Temperature Phosphorescence
Authors: Dong Qiang , Ye Guigui , Zhang Lei , Chen Cailing , Xue Miaomiao , Lee Chun‐Sing , Han Yu , Li Zhen , Zhang Qichun
Published: June 2024

The synthesis, crystal structure and room‐temperature phosphorescence (RTP) of a 2D metal‐free inorganic covalent framework ((H2en) [B5O8(OH)], named as CityU‐12, and en represents for ethylenediamine) are reported. The precise structure information of CityU‐12 has been disclosed through both single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction (SCXRD) analysis and low‐dose high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy (LD‐HRTEM) study. The SCXRD results show that CityU‐12 composes of 2D anionic B─O‐based covalent inorganic frameworks with protonated ethylenediamine locating in the pore sites of 2D B─O layers while LD‐HRTEM suggests that CityU‐12 has an interplanar distance of 0.60 nm for (00) crystal plane and 0.60 nm for (10) crystal plane. The optical studies show that CityU‐12 is an excellent nonconventional RTP material with the emission peak at 530 nm and a lifetime of 1.5 s. The quantum yield is 84.6% and the afterglow time is as long as 2.5 s. This work demonstrates that metal‐free B─O frameworks can be promising nonconventional phosphors for RTP.
Impact of hook choice, fish size, and water temperature on hooking depth, injury, and postcapture physiology in Channel Catfish
Authors: Hintz Kyle J. , Qualich Jason M. , Brunais Baileeanne E. , Louison Michael J.
Published: June 2024

Objective

Catch-and-release angling is an oft-practiced conservation tool involving the release of captured game fish either due to harvest regulations or conservation ethic on the part of the angler. Central to this practice is the assumption that released fish survive; however, a large body of work has shown that postrelease mortality can occur, especially if fish are injured during the capture process. In this study, we examined hooking location, bleeding, injury rates, and postcapture physiology in Channel Catfish Ictalurus punctatus, a popular game fish species.

Methods

A total of 83 Channel Catfish were angled from a lake in southern Illinois using conventional rod-and-reel techniques with one of four hook types (J-hook, shiner, circle, and octopus). Captured fish were then assessed for hooking depth, bleeding, and injury. Subsequently, a subset of 40 fish were additionally held for 4 h in submerged totes before being tested for reflex responsiveness and undergoing a blood biopsy for glucose and lactate levels.

Result

Circle and octopus hooks reduced hooking depth in Channel Catfish compared with J-hooks and tended to reduce postcapture bleeding as well. Postholding physiological results showed no effect of hook type on blood lactate or glucose levels, and reflex impairment was very rare (only a single fish was impaired for any reflexes 4 h postcapture).

Conclusion

Overall, the results of this study suggest that the use of circle hooks reduce the likelihood of deep hooking and injury in Channel Catfish, though Channel Catfish, at least in the short term, were physiologically resilient to the effects of capture.
Photoacoustic imaging in brain disorders: Current progress and clinical applications
Authors: Liu Xiuyun , Li Haodong , Pang Meijun , Liu Jinzhen , Song Xizi , He Runnan , He Mengqi , Jian Xiqi , Ma Cheng , Deng Handi , Wu Yixuan , Ming Dong
Published: June 2024

Over the past few decades, the number of patients with neurological diseases has increased significantly, posing huge challenges and opportunities for the development of brain imaging technology. As a hybrid imaging method combining optical excitation and acoustic detection techniques, photoacoustic tomography (PAT), has experienced rapid development, due to high optical contrast and spatial resolution at depth inside tissues. With the development of lasers, ultrasonic detectors, and data computations, PAT has been widely applied for the diagnosis of oncology, dermatosis, etc. However, the energy of light and ultrasound would be greatly attenuated while penetrating the skull, due to the reflection, absorption, and scattering effects, resulting in limited application of PAT in brain imaging. In this review, we summarized the achievements of PAT and its application in the detection of brain diseases including glioma, stroke, traumatic brain injury, Alzheimer's disease, epilepsy, and Parkinson's disease. Moreover, various PAT systems and multi‐modality photoacoustic imaging are introduced for potential clinical applications. Finally, the challenges and current limitations of PAT for further brain imaging are also discussed.
In Search of Intermediating Capacities: The Interplay of Civic Engagement and Institutionalised Politics
Authors: Evers Adalbert , von Essen Johan
Published: June 2024

It’s time to question the capability of the liberal-democratic political system in contemporary societies to handle urgent crises and represent the political will of the citizens. The current erosion and retrieval of intermediate capabilities and procedures in society affects the interplay of civic engagement and institutionalised politics, undermining the vitality of the political system and the legitimacy of democracy. The aim of this book is to contribute to the discussion and understanding of these changes in European countries. The first part of this introduction defines roughly what we mean by institutionalised politics and civic engagement respectively and how we understand intermediation: as a special dimension of their interplay that is not a given but a kind of always contentious and endangered quality. The second part discusses three different strands of (re)thinking the intermediary capacities of democratic systems—political and democratic theory, the civil society/civic engagement and the recent governance debate. They make up for plurality of the respective chapters, their specific limits, merits and innovative potentials. As the book is looking to unfold the mechanisms for democratic repair beyond a ‘bipolar’ antagonism between civic engagement and institutionalised politics, they can altogether be seen as complementary.
Tolerance Analysis Method of Aircraft Door Sealing Structure Based on Linear Simplified Model
Authors: Ke Jinlin , Lv Xiongfei , Jiang Cuncun
Published: June 2024

As a moving component of the aircraft, the sealing state of the door will directly affect the aircraft's pressurization level and aerodynamic performance. The existing analysis methods of sealing structures mainly consider the compression deformation and contact stress of the seals. However, in practical engineering applications, it has been found that the sealing performance of cabin door depends on the interaction between the sealing structure and the seal. On the one hand, the tolerance fluctuation and elastic deformation of the sealing structure will cause the deviation between the actual compression ratio of the seal from the theoretical value; On the other hand, the deformation caused by the resilience of the seal will change the tolerance distribution of the sealing structure. In this paper, based on the local linear simplification of loading curve of the seal, the calculation efficiency of the large-size sealing structure’s deformation is improved, so that the compression ratio fluctuation of the seal is converted into the deformation tolerance which is included in the tolerance simulation of the sealing structures to obtain the distribution characteristics of step difference value on the aerodynamic surface as well as the different compression states of the seal. The validity of this analysis method is confirmed by comparing with the commercial software calculation and the practical measured data of the aircraft door.
The Influence of Longitudinal Oil Tank Bodies on the Vehicle’s Rollover Mechanics
Authors: Zuo Yonggang , Chen Fuze , Huang Jiansheng , Zhang Yuliang , Wu Meichun
Published: June 2024

In order to determine the influence of longitudinal oil tank bodies with different cross-sectional shapes on the vehicle's center of gravity position and the lateral overturning moment generated during cornering and braking, this paper conducts oscillation simulation calculations and analysis on longitudinal oil tanks with three different cross-sectional shapes. The optimal cross-section of the longitudinal tank is ultimately determined, providing a basis for the stability calculation of oil tankers.
Parametric Design Method of Hydraulic Buffer System for Low-Speed Heavy-Load Trailer
Authors: Min Guanyu , Zhang Qing , Xu Liwei
Published: June 2024

To address the problem of high-pressure low-frequency hydraulic impact on the hydraulic buffer system mounted on self-propelled hydraulic trailer, a parametric simulation and design framework is provided for the widespread use of integrated accumulator systems in the low-speed heavy-load vehicle. A mathematical model of the accumulator was established for theoretical analysis, and numerical simulation were conducted on corresponding parameters using AMESim. Finally, a routine method was proposed to achieve feasible arrangement of accumulators. In this study, for the problem of high-pressure impact conditions caused by severe fluctuations, the system performance could be increased by arranging different combinations of accumulators with different parameter configurations. Taking a commercial model of heavy trailer as an actual case, a reasonable parameterized design was carried out for its comprehensive accumulator buffer system, and verification was conducted.
Design and CFD Simulation of Heat Transfer in Circular Pipes
Authors: Ali Furman , Abbas Munawwar Ali , Sun Bo , Chen Li , Hussain Shahid
Published: June 2024

A major issue for human growth is the energy crisis. In the current study, circular pipes are considered an energy-efficient technology viable in all seasons. It uses non-constant soil temperature and water flow in coldest regions. This model reports the thermal performance of pipes with different results in hot and cold climates. To degree thermal performance, pipe version changed into advanced and simulated with ANSYS 18.1 Fluid Flow (Fluent). Data was collected from two modelled summer and winter seasons. Continuity, momentum, and energy equation have been used for the simulation. Comparison analysis is also being carried out about the obtained results with previously published articles. The effects of summer and winter temperature and speed on performance were also evaluated. Further, the graphical interpretation is also carried for velocity and pressure distribution. The study highlights a drastic drop in temperature and velocity near the inlet and outlet region while Pressure is inversely proportional to velocity in these regions. It is also obtained from the simulation that the temperature pressure and velocity remain uniform in the fully develop region.
Thermal Robustness Redesign of Electromagnet Under Multi-Physical Field Coupling
Authors: Liu Chenyu , Wang Anlin , Li Xiaotian
Published: June 2024

Aiming at the durability problem of the proportional electromagnet used in the proportional valve of engineering machinery, in order to improve its thermal failure resistance under random load conditions, a parametric redesign model of the proportional electromagnet was proposed based on the multi-physics coupling theory and robust optimization theory. This article takes the proportional electromagnet with a basin-type suction structure as the research object. The parameter model was verified through steady-state proportional electromagnet tests and temperature distribution tests. On the premise of ensuring the accuracy of electromagnetic calculation force, the conductivity and heat transfer parameters with fuzzy magnitude in the system were calibrated. Taking the key structural parameters of the proportional electromagnet and coil as the control factors, and the enameled wire diameter of the coil caused by the uncertainty of the production process conditions as the noise factor, an orthogonal experiment was designed based on the Taguchi method, and the thermal robustness redesign evaluation function of the proportional electromagnet was defined. Multi-factor weighted form. The thermal load of the proportional electromagnet obtained from the excavator field test was used as the response to calculate the heat source. Under the constraint of allowable temperature rise that can not cause coil insulation failure, a redesign method for key structural parameters that minimizes changes in system response under noise interference is given. Studies have shown that coil length and number of turns are the main factors affecting the thermal robustness of proportional electromagnets. The window shape of the coil is determined by the winding process and determines the magnetic properties and heat transfer capabilities of the system. The thermal robustness redesign method of proportional electromagnets proposed in this article has engineering reference value for the customized design of electromechanical products under magnetothermal coupling conditions.
Simulation Study on Driving Dynamic Characteristics of a Light Rocket Launcher
Authors: Ma Qingtian , Yu Cungui , Li Guanglei , Zhou Cheng , Liu Shuang , Ma Junyi
Published: June 2024

Taking a light rocket launcher as the research object, based on random road excitation and applying the theory of multi-rigid-body system dynamics, the multi-body dynamics model of a light rocket launcher is established, and its driving dynamic characteristics are studied. Considering the load-bearing characteristics of leaf spring and the use of tires, the driving dynamics simulation of light rocket launcher on C-class virtual road is carried out. Considering the vibration impact of the road surface on the rocket launcher, the vibration characteristic results of the rocket launcher are analyzed, and the ride comfort index is used to evaluate the driving reliability of the rocket launcher.
Study on Multiple Hydraulic Cylinders Synchronous Control Under Impact Load
Authors: Wang Jianjun , Hao Sulan , Li Wenlei
Published: June 2024

In engineering, it is often necessary to use multiple hydraulic cylinders to drive the load at the same time. Under the impact load, because of the compressibility and leakage of hydraulic oil is inevitable, it is difficult to accurately control the speed of the actuator. Firstly, the compression and leakage of the hydraulic oil under the impact load are analyzed theoretically, and the main factors affecting the speed stability of the hydraulic cylinder are obtained. A multiple hydraulic cylinders synchronous control experimental circuit with electro-hydraulic proportional PID control is designed, which is composed of pump station, oil cylinders, displacement detection sensors and computer control system. The master–slave control strategy, electro-hydraulic proportional closed-loop control and fuzzy PID weighted control algorithm are adopted, and the simulation results show that this method can realize the stable control of hydraulic cylinder speed, and improve the synchronous control accuracy of multiple hydraulic cylinders, and the synchronous accuracy is within 0.5 mm. Finally, the experimental platform is built for practical verification, and through data acquisition and displacement monitoring of the system, it can be proved this method can realize the accurate synchronization of displacement driven by four hydraulic cylinders. The results show that the system is easy to control and has high synchronization accuracy, which can provide a reference for the design of multiple actuators synchronization control.
Analysis of Factors Affecting Critical Speed of Multi-span Rotor System Coupled with Diaphragm Coupling
Authors: Wu Zhihua , Li Zhanwei , Shi Mengfan , Zhang Qing
Published: June 2024

Taking the multi-span rotor system composed of two double diaphragm couplings coupled with three rotors as the object, the finite element model of the high-speed multi-span rotor system is established, and the critical speed of the rotor system is solved using ANSYS Workbench software. The effects of the radial stiffness of the diaphragm coupling and the bearing support stiffness on the critical speed of the rotor system in the first three orders are analyzed. The results show that, for the model established in this paper, within a certain range, the radial stiffness of the diaphragm coupling has a greater influence on the third-order critical speed of the multi-span rotor system, and the increase of the radial stiffness of the diaphragm coupling and the increase of the bearing support stiffness will increase the critical speed of the multi-span rotor system.