bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Printed Lateral p–n Junction for Thermoelectric Generation
Authors: Mallick Md Mofasser , Franke Leonard , Hussein Mohamed , Rösch Andres Georg , Long Zhongmin , Eggeler Yolita Maria , Lemmer Uli
Published: August 2024

Printed thermoelectric generators (TEGs) show promising potential for converting waste heat into useful electricity at a low cost but fall short of exhibiting a conversion efficiency anticipated from materials’ properties. The output power of conventionally printed TEGs in the “π‐type” geometry suffers due to low thermal voltage and low current because of high thermal and electrical contact resistance, respectively. Herein, a type of printed p–n junction TEGs (PN‐TEGs) as a possible remedy is explored. Two printed PN‐TEGs with different thicknesses are fabricated using printed p‐type Bi0.5Sb1.5Te3 and n‐type Bi2Te2.7Se0.3 materials. The PN‐TEGs show a promising way to minimize the influence of thermal and electrical resistance in printed TEGs. In the experimental and simulation results, the significant impact of PN‐TEGs’ dimensions on their power outputs is revealed. Also, a conventional “π‐type” printed TEG is fabricated and its performance is studied. The optimized PN‐TEG with a single thermocouple yields ≈14 times higher power output density of 5.3 μW cm−2 at a ΔT of 25 K compared to “π‐type” printed TEGs.
A critical systems approach to conference organisation: Hosting an international conference in South Africa
Authors: Goede Roelien
Published: August 2024

Annual meetings have the potential to be used to promote the objectives of a society in a unique setting. A carefully selected venue will not only enhance the experience but also promote the very essence of the society. However, conference organisation can also be a minefield of unexpected problems caused by the involvement of diverse service providers. The cost to members can easily exceed the benefits they experience.

Critical systems thinking provides a framework of understanding for promoting holistic thinking and sensitivity to underlying assumptions, guiding the organiser to include multiple perspectives. In this paper, the systems approach, along with elements of critical systems heuristics, Ubuntu, and servant‐leadership, are used to reflect on the organisation of the annual meeting of an international systems organisation. The choice of venue provided both opportunities and challenges.

The reflection on the process focuses on the fluidity of boundaries and the interplay between systemic planning and systematic implementation.
Isolation, Identification, and Characterization of Forced Degradation Products of Bosentan by Using Advanced Analytical Techniques
Authors: Kanagaddi Rajesh , Nannapaneni Satya Sree , Raghupathi Jayaprakash Kanijam , Katari Naresh Kumar , Salakolusu Suresh , Murty J. N. S. R. C. , Ranga Mahesh , Kaliyaperumal Muralidharan
Published: August 2024

The present study explains the degradation behavior of bosentan (BOS), active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) (BOS monohydrate), a Food and Drug Administration (FDA)–approved drug used for the treatment of chronic heart failure, subarachnoid hemorrhage, and Raynaud's syndrome pulmonary hypertension. The stress study was performed under various stress conditions such as acid hydrolysis, base hydrolysis, oxidation, thermal degradation, and photolysis as per International Council for Harmonization (ICH) guidelines and found three degradation products (DPs) under acid hydrolysis conditions (1 N HCl/4 h/60°C reflux conditions) (the net degradation of API ∼ 21.39%). The drug was found to be stable under the remaining conditions (thermal, photolytic, oxidative, and basic hydrolytic conditions). Mechanisms for forming the three acid DPs were also proposed and discussed. The DPs were initially detected by ultrahigh‐performance liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry analysis. These DPs were isolated by preparative HPLC and then characterized by high‐resolution mass spectrometry and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy techniques. Based on the structural characterization study, all these DPs are new and not reported elsewhere in the literature to my knowledge. Many reports were found in the literature for the quantification of the drug in the APIs and formulation products. However, there is no report published yet for the identification and characterization of DPs of the BOS drug.
Integration of Samarium Vanadate/Halloysite Nanotubes: Electrochemical Determination of Furaltadone Using Flexible Electrode
Authors: Jana Jayasmita , Sharma Tata Sanjay Kanna , Babu Beena Mol , Ansar Sabah , Chowdhury Somnath , Sriram Balasubramanian , Wang Sea‐Fue , Kang Sung Gu , Chung Jin Suk , Choi Won Mook , Hur Seung Hyun
Published: August 2024

In this study, a composite comprising a rare‐earth metal, samarium vanadate (SmVO4, SmV), anchored to halloysite nanotube (HNT) making SmV/HNT nanocomposite is synthesized for the sensitive electrochemical determination of furaltadone (FLD) through differential pulse voltammetry analysis based on the synergistic effect of SmV/HNT (the catalytic activity and chemical stability of SmV, which was further boosted by the improved surface area and conductance of HNT). Further, in the microscopic studies, it is revealed that SmV exhibits a tetragonal zircon‐type crystalline structure, with I41/amd (141) space group, whereas HNT comprises a multiphase kaolin composition as a gibbsite‐like octahedral sheet with multivalency, and the morphological irregularities of the individual constituents are rectified in the composite. The SmV/HNT composite is spray‐coated on polyethylene terephthalate sheet, which delivered a promising trace level  limit of detection (0.009 μm) over a wide working range (0.05–194.4 μm) for FLD. Furthermore, real sample analysis is performed using human serum, and pharmaceutical tablet and the results reveal exceptional repeatability and sensitivity, indicating the real‐time application of SmV/HNT in the pharmaceutical domain.
Characterization of Alternative Starches and Its Effects on the In Vitro Dissolution of Capsules Containing Low Solubility Drugs (Ibuprofen and Nifedipine)
Authors: de Freitas Santos Júnior Aníbal , Carvalho Junior Carlos Magno Ramos , Teles Júnior Gilmar Antônio Carvalho , Silva Vagner Cardoso da
Published: August 2024

Biopharmaceutical applications of alternative starches (ASs), as excipients in capsules containing low solubility drugs (nifedipine and ibuprofen), from seeds of breadfruit (Artocarpus altilis), red‐jambo (Syzygium malaccense), jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus Lam.), avocado (Persea americana), and yam rhizomes (Dioscorea spp.), are investigated. ASs are characterized by microscopic, thermal, and X‐ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. Dissolution profiles are traced and compared to the official starch (from corn) – soluble in hot water, particle size (2–32 µm) and amylose/amylopectin ratio (0.29–0.33). Microscopy analysis shows AS granules with tetrahedral and spherical/rounded shapes (average size of 21.45 µm). The amylose/amylopectin ratios of AS are: breadfruit (0.29–0.37), red‐jambo (0.25–0.29), jackfruit (0.28–0.37), avocado (0.33–0.43), and yam rhizomes (0.37–0.47). AS presents crystallinity patterns of types A, B, and C. Thermal analysis shows mass loss with dehydration – 303 and 373 K (30 and 100 °C) and degradation 525 and 626 K (252 and 353 °C). The release of nifedipine (≥80%, in 20 min) and ibuprofen (≥60%, in 30 min) are similar or superior to corn starch. Only AS obtained from avocado seeds fails to release nifedipine. This study contributes to the quality control of medicine and alternative bioproducts.
Practical social media recommendations for dementia prevention researchers
Authors: Hrincu Viorica , Roy Katherine T. , Robillard Julie M.
Published: August 2024

INTRODUCTION

Practical social media recommendations are needed to facilitate greater engagement in dementia prevention research. Alongside relevant experts, our aim was to develop a set of consensus recommendations that reflect the values and priorities of prospective participants to guide social media use.

METHODS

We conducted a three‐round, modified Delphi consisting of three online surveys and three conferences calls. The diverse, international Delphi panel comprised 16 experts with lived (n = 10) and professional (n = 6) experiences. Consensus was defined a priori as ≥ 70% agreement.

RESULTS

Twenty‐six items achieved consensus. Two items reached consensus in round 1: ethical considerations of closed social media groups (88%) and of social media users sharing prevention content with connections who are not on social media (79%). Nine items reached consensus in round 2, related to misinformation (79%), stigma (93%), and other key aspects of social media communication. After revisions, 15 items reached consensus in the final round. These items included: identifying when researchers ought to engage, managing closed social media groups, rankings of short form content, prioritizing lay summaries and multimedia resources, and rankings of preferred language. One item about the language of prevention for audiences living with dementia did not reach consensus. Final consensus items formed the new set of recommendations, which we organized into seven social media use cases. These use cases include setting up a social media page or community, handling online misinformation, actively challenging stigma, handling difficult online interactions, introducing new research to the public, help with study recruitment, and the language of prevention when writing posts.

DISCUSSION

These consensus recommendations can help dementia prevention researchers harness social media use for the purposes of public engagement and uphold the norms and values specific to the dementia research and broader communities.

Highlights

We created social media recommendations with research and community experts.

Recommendations cover key ethical considerations for dementia prevention research.

Areas include misinformation, stigma, information updates, and preferred language.

Full consensus recommendations are organized into seven social media use cases.
Frequency domain‐based analytical solutions for one‐dimensional soil water flow in layered soils
Authors: Zhu Jiong , Zha Yuanyuan , Yeh Tian‐Chyi Jim
Published: August 2024

Solutions of the linearized Richardson–Richards Equation (RRE) for one‐dimensional soil water flow in layered soils with sinusoidal flux in the frequency domain are derived. We evaluate the accuracy of our analytical and other analytical solutions by comparing them with results from a standard numerical model. Our analytical solution agrees with the numerical solution under multi‐layered heterogeneous soil, while others disagree. We also demonstrate the capability of the proposed solution to simulate soil moisture dynamics under a realistic, multi‐frequency flux case. The procedure described in the paper is valid for any series of arbitrary periodic flux superpositions for layered heterogeneous . Moreover, our solution is efficient in the calculation compared with numerical solutions, especially when dealing with long‐time series soil moisture, which can provide a validation of numerical models.
Wastewater reuse benefits for municipal complete retention lagoons: Life cycle assessment and dynamic modeling
Authors: Thompson Matthew , Dvorak Bruce
Published: August 2024

Complete retention lagoons with wastewater reuse for agricultural purposes may offer sustainability advantages over alternative systems for small communities in semiarid regions. This study quantifies the environmental life cycle impact of adopting agriculture water reuse systems using case study data to estimate operating and building infrastructure impacts and spatial–temporal modeling to quantify resource trade‐offs. Water reuse system benefits are highly dependent on supply–storage–demand dynamics. The relative size of irrigated agricultural land to the lagoon size was the most significant factor influencing site water application rates. The benefits are sensitive to changes in air emissions occurring from the agricultural land and further emphasize the importance of proper fertilizer management when adopting water reuse systems. Wastewater reuse from complete retention lagoons reduce life cycle GHG emissions, primarily through excavation reductions, offset fertilizer use, and especially from increased crop yields from wastewater reuse at previously rainfed sites.

Practitioner Points

Seven case studies and spatial–temporal modeling quantified resource trade‐offs for water reuse to reduce lagoon size.

Excavation reductions and offset fertilizer compensated for emissions from electricity and construction.

Crop yield increases were the largest environmental benefit of adopting water reuse.

System benefits are highly dependent on supply–storage–demand dynamics.

Designers should use climatic data to help estimate potential variability in available water for reuse and associated energy and crop production.
Bioinspired and bioderived nanomedicine for inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Gazzi Rafaela , Gelli Rita , Aleandri Simone , Carone Marianna , Luciani Paola
Published: August 2024

Due to its chronic nature and complex pathophysiology, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) poses significant challenges for treatment. The long‐term therapies for patients, often diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 40, call for innovative strategies to target inflammation, minimize systemic drug exposure, and improve patients' therapeutic outcomes. Among the plethora of strategies currently pursued, bioinspired and bioderived nano‐based formulations have garnered interest for their safety and versatility in the management of IBD. Bioinspired nanomedicine can host and deliver not only small drug molecules but also biotherapeutics, be made gastroresistant and mucoadhesive or mucopenetrating and, for these reasons, are largely investigated for oral administration, while surprisingly less for rectal delivery, recommended first‐line treatment approach for several IBD patients. The use of bioderived nanocarriers, mostly extracellular vesicles (EVs), endowed with unique homing abilities, is still in its infancy with respect to the arsenal of nanomedicine under investigation for IBD treatment. An emerging source of EVs suited for oral administration is ingesta, that is, plants or milk, thanks to their remarkable ability to resist the harsh environment of the upper gastrointestinal tract. Inspired by the unparalleled properties of natural biomaterials, sophisticated avenues for enhancing therapeutic efficacy and advancing precision medicine approaches in IBD care are taking shape, although bottlenecks arising either from the complexity of the nanomedicine designed or from the lack of a clear regulatory pathway still hinder a smooth and efficient translation to the clinics.

This article is categorized under:

Nanotechnology Approaches to Biology > Nanoscale Systems in Biology
X‐ray microanalysis and mapping for white ceramics unearthed from Gangguantun Kiln of Liaoyang, Liaoning province, China
Authors: Shen Guiyun , Yu Jinyu , Zhang Baolong , Wu Yuanyuan , Zhou Jun , Li Naisheng , Zhu Jian
Published: August 2024

In this case, electron probe microanalyzer (EPMA) and micro x‐ray fluorescence (μ‐XRF) techniques were employed to the analysis of white porcelain species artifacts unearthed from the Gangguantun Kiln (10–13th century) and investigate for its production processes' details by microanalysis. Microscopic observation reveals the presence of inclusions in the ceramic bodies across different historical periods, with notable disparities in the form and quantity of these inclusions between samples from distinct periods. By employing EPMA mapping and particle analysis, it was discerned that the inclusions in the late‐period white porcelain are primarily composed of calcium‐rich materials, exhibiting a uniform composition and structure. The uniformity in particle size distribution strongly suggests that these inclusions are temper with certain purpose, deliberately and intentionally introduced by skilled artisans following a controlled processing method. This discovery rectifies the previously held notion that the white porcelain products from the Gangguantun Kiln were rustic and coarse, with the “black iron spots” or other inclusion being viewed as impurities. Furthermore, these temper materials, likely treated before incorporation, may have played a role in enhancing the firing process of ceramics. This revelation sheds light on the distinctive technological aspects of ceramic craftsmanship during the Liao and Jin dynasty periods. It serves as a crucial reference for delving into the technical choices and integration within the handicraft industry of northern China during the Liao‐Jin era, as well as the unique regional characteristics and stylistic features of the period. This significantly enriches our comprehension of this historical era.
Towards a Novel Classification of Table Types in Scholarly Publications
Authors: He Jilin , Borisova Ekaterina , Rehm Georg
Published: August 2024

Tables are one of the prevalent means of organising and representing structured data. They contain a wealth of valuable information that is challenging to extract automatically, yet can be leveraged for downstream tasks such as question answering and knowledge base construction. Table Type Classification (TTC) is one of the tasks which contributes to better semantic understanding and extraction of knowledge in tabular data. While multiple classification schemas exist, almost all of them are focused on web tables. Therefore, these classifications might overlook certain types which are common in other areas such as scientific research. This paper addresses this gap by introducing ten novel TTC taxonomies tailored towards tables used in scholarly publications. We also evaluate the applicability of taxonomies derived from web tables to scientific tables. Additionally, we propose a new dataset containing 13,000 annotated table images, called TD4CLTabs. Our results indicate that both existing and newly proposed taxonomies are suitable and effective for classifying scientific tables.
Scientific Software Citation Intent Classification Using Large Language Models
Authors: Istrate Ana-Maria , Fisher Joshua , Yang Xinyu , Moraw Kara , Li Kai , Li Donghui , Klein Martin
Published: August 2024

Software has emerged as a crucial tool in the current research ecosystem, frequently referenced in academic papers for its application in studies or the introduction of new software systems. Despite its prevalence, there remains a significant gap in understanding how software is cited within the scientific literature. In this study, we offer a conceptual framework for studying software citation intent and explore the use of large language models, such as BERT-based models, GPT-3.5, and GPT-4 for this task. We compile a representative software-mention dataset by merging two existing gold standard software mentions datasets and annotating them to a common citation intent scheme. This new dataset makes it possible to analyze software citation intent at the sentence level. We observe that in a fine-tuning setting, large language models can generally achieve an accuracy of over 80% on software citation intent classification on unseen, challenging data. Our research paves the way for future empirical investigations into the realm of research software, establishing a foundational framework for exploring this under-examined area.
Towards bit threads in general gravitational spacetimes
Authors: Du Dong-Hui , Sun Jia-Rui
Published: August 2024

Abstract

The concept of the generalized entanglement wedge was recently proposed by Bousso and Penington, which states that any bulk gravitational region a possesses an associated generalized entanglement wedge E(a) ⊃ a on a static Cauchy surface M in general gravitational spacetimes, where E(a) may contain an entanglement island I(a). It suggests that the fine-grained entropy for bulk region a is given by the generalized entropy Sgen(E(a)). Motivated by this proposal, we extend the quantum bit thread description to general gravitational spacetimes, no longer limited to the AdS spacetime. By utilizing the convex optimization techniques, a dual flow description for the generalized entropy Sgen(E(a)) of a bulk gravitational region a is established on the static Cauchy surface M, such that Sgen(E(a)) is equal to the maximum flux of any flow that starts from the boundary ∂M and ends at bulk region a, or equivalently, the maximum number of bit threads that connect the boundary ∂M to the bulk region a. In addition, the nesting property of flows is also proved. Thus the basic properties of the entropy for bulk regions, i.e. the monotonicity, subadditivity, Araki-Lieb inequality and strong subadditivity, can be verified from flow perspectives by using properties of flows, such as the nesting property. Moreover, in max thread configurations, we find that there exists some lower bounds on the bulk entanglement entropy of matter fields in the region E(a) \ a, particularly on an entanglement island region I(a) ⊂ (E(a) \ a), as required by the existence of a nontrivial generalized entanglement wedge. Our quantum bit thread formulation may provide a way to investigate more fine-grained entanglement structures in general spacetimes.
SU(2)L deconstruction and flavour (non)-universality
Authors: Capdevila Bernat , Crivellin Andreas , Lizana Javier M. , Pokorski Stefan
Published: August 2024

Abstract

We study two-site deconstructions of the SU(2)L gauge group factor of the SM. Models based on this approach can explain the hierarchies of the quark masses and CKM mixing between third and light families if these fields are localised on different sites by the presence of hierarchical new physics scales. The model leads to an accidental global U(2)q × U(3)u × U(3)d flavour symmetry which prevents dangerously large effects in flavour observables, making a TeV extension of the SM possible. Given the structure of the PMNS matrix in the neutrino sector, we explore different possibilities for the arrangement of the leptons on the two sites, and consider different models with U(2)ℓ or U(3)ℓ flavour symmetries. The phenomenology of the models is mostly governed by a massive vector triplet of SU(2)L. We study the interesting interplay between LHC searches and precision observables. In particular, one of the models can give a sizeable lepton flavour universal effect in the Wilson coefficient C9 while naturally suppressing contributions to C10, as suggested by current b → sℓ+ℓ− data, predicting simultaneously a mild positive shift in the W boson mass.
Gravitational axiverse spectroscopy: seeing the forest for the axions
Authors: Dimastrogiovanni Ema , Fasiello Matteo , Leedom Jacob M. , Putti Margherita , Westphal Alexander
Published: August 2024

Abstract

We consider inflationary models with multiple spectator axions coupled to dark gauge sectors via Chern-Simons (CS) terms. The energy injection into Abelian gauge fields from the axions engenders a multi-peak profile for scalar and tensor spectra. We highlight the constraining power of CMB spectral distortions on the scalar signal and discuss the conditions under which spectator sectors can account for the recently observed stochastic gravitational wave (GW) background in the nHz range. Given the tantalizing prospect of a multi-peak “GW forest” spanning several decades in frequency, we elaborate on possible ultraviolet origins of the spectator models from Type IIB orientifolds. String compactifications generically produce a multitude of axions, the “Axiverse”, from dimensional reduction of p-form gauge fields. The CS coupling of such axions to dark gauge fields in the worldvolume theory of D7-branes can be tuned via multiple brane wrappings and/or quantized gauge field strengths. If string axions coupled to Abelian gauge fields undergo slow-roll during inflation, they produce GW signals with peaked frequency distribution whose magnitude depends on the details of the compactification. We discuss the restrictions on spectator models from consistency and control requirements of the string compactification and thereby motivate models that may live in the string landscape as opposed to the swampland.
Generalised hydrodynamics of $$ \textrm{T}\overline{\textrm{T}} $$-deformed integrable quantum field theories
Authors: Travaglino Riccardo , Mazzoni Michele , Castro-Alvaredo Olalla A.
Published: August 2024

Abstract

In this paper we evaluate the averages of conserved densities and currents associated to charges of generic spin in (1+1)-dimensional massive integrable Quantum Field Theories perturbed by the irrelevant $$ \textrm{T}\overline{\textrm{T}} $$
T

T
¯

operator. By making use of the Thermodynamic Bethe Ansatz approach and of the theory of Generalised Hydrodynamics, we study the non-equilibrium steady state averages of conserved densities and currents in a partitioning protocol. We show that, in particular limits, averages can be evaluated exactly in terms of quantities known from the unperturbed theory. In the massless limit we recover known results for the energy and momentum currents and generalise those to any higher spin conserved quantities. We extend some of our results to perturbations of the generalised $$ \textrm{T}\overline{\textrm{T}} $$
T

T
¯

type. For the massive free fermion theory, we find an analytic expression for the effective inverse temperature after at $$ \textrm{T}\overline{\textrm{T}} $$
T

T
¯

perturbation in terms of the bare inverse temperature by making use of Lambert’s W function.
Spinodal slowing down and scaling in a holographic model
Authors: Caddeo Alessio , Henriksson Oscar , Hoyos Carlos , Sanchez-Garitaonandia Mikel
Published: August 2024

Abstract

The dynamics of first-order phase transitions in strongly coupled systems are relevant in a variety of systems, from heavy ion collisions to the early universe. Holographic theories can be used to model these systems, with fluctuations usually suppressed. In this case the system can come close to a spinodal point where theory and experiments indicate that the behaviour should be similar to a critical point of a second-order phase transition. We study this question using a simple holographic model and confirm that there is critical slowing down and scaling behaviour close to the spinodal point, with precise quantitative estimates. In addition, we determine the start of the scaling regime for the breakdown of quasistatic evolution when the temperature of a thermal bath is slowly decreased across the transition. We also extend the analysis to the dynamics of second-order phase transitions and strong crossovers.
Quantum gravity of the Heisenberg algebra
Authors: Almheiri Ahmed , Goel Akash , Hu Xu-Yao
Published: August 2024

Abstract

We consider a simplified model of double scaled SYK (DSSYK) in which the Hamiltonian is the position operator of the Harmonic oscillator. This model captures the high temperature limit of DSSYK but could also be defined as a quantum theory in its own right. We study properties of the emergent geometry including its dynamics in response to inserting matter particles. In particular, we find that the model displays de Sitter-like properties such as that infalling matter reduces the rate of growth of geodesic slices between the two boundaries. The simplicity of the model allows us to compute the full generating functional for correlation functions of the length mode or any number of matter operators. We provide evidence that the effective action of the geodesic length between boundary points is non-local. Furthermore, we use the on-shell solution for the geodesic lengths between any two boundary points to reconstruct an effective bulk metric and reverse engineer the dilaton gravity theory that generates this metric as a solution.
Non-linear dynamics and critical phenomena in the holographic landscape of Weyl semimetals
Authors: Matsumoto Masataka , Mirjalali Mirmani , Vahedi Ali
Published: August 2024

Abstract

This study presents a detailed analysis of critical phenomena in a holographic Weyl semi-metal (WSM) using the D3/D7 brane configuration. The research explores the non-linear response of the longitudinal current J when subjected to an external electric field E at both zero and finite temperatures. At zero temperature, the study identifies a potential quantum phase transition in the J-E relationship, driven by background parameters the particle mass, and axial gauge potential. This transition is characterized by a unique reconnection phenomenon resulting from the interplay between WSM-like and conventional nonlinear conducting behaviors, indicating a quantum phase transition.

Additionally, at non-zero temperatures with dissipation, the system demonstrates first- and second-order phase transitions as the electric field and axial gauge potential are varied. The longitudinal conductivity is used as an order parameter to identify the current-driven phase transition. Numerical analysis reveals critical exponents in this non-equilibrium phase transition that show similarities to mean-field values observed in metallic systems.
Single-valuedness of the AdS Veneziano amplitude
Authors: Alday Luis F. , Hansen Tobias
Published: August 2024

Abstract

We consider the Veneziano amplitude for the scattering of gluons in type IIB string theory on AdS5 × S5/ℤ2 in the presence of D7 branes. On general grounds curvature corrections around flat space can be thought of as arising from the extra insertion of soft gravitons. This naturally leads to an open string world-sheet representation with the extra insertion of single-valued functions evaluated on the real line. We check that the recently obtained first curvature correction is of this form and use this new constraint to compute the second curvature correction of the AdS Veneziano amplitude.
Anticancer potential of delphinidin and its derivatives: therapeutic and mechanistic insights
Authors: Iqbal Shabnoor , Omara Timothy , Kahwa Ivan , Khan Usman Mir
Published: August 2024

Anthocyanins are water-soluble naturally occurring flavonoids present in fruits, flowers, leaves, and roots of fruit plants and vegetables. One of the important anthocyanidin components of red wine and berries is delphinidin (DP). This review provides an update on the potential of DP in cancer therapy, with a further understanding of the mechanisms involved. Delphinidin has been shown to elicit inhibitory effects on catabolizing enzymes of human granulocytes and parasites, TNF-induced COX-2 expression in mouse epidermal cells, and reduce oxidative stress. It also inhibited anchorage-independent growth and caused cell death in breast cancer cell lines. Delphinidin increased Nrf2 expression, increased HO-1 production, and promoted mRNA expression of mitochondrial biogenesis-related factors. Further, DP has anti-proliferative and pro-apoptotic effects in various cancer cell lines such as lung, breast, and ovarian cancer cells. The mTOR-related pathway is the most important signaling pathway in the activation of autophagy, and DP has been shown to exert its cytotoxic effects on cancer cell lines via activating protein kinases. Among DP derivatives, delphinidin-3-O-glucoside has the best anticancer activity because it is easily absorbed. However, the metabolism of DP and its bioavailability in biological systems need to be explored to fully understand its benefits.
Maternal peripheral blood telomere length and preterm birth in African American women: a pilot study
Authors: Huang Weiyi , Han Gang , Taylor Brandie DePaoli , Neal Gabriel , Kochan Kelli , Page Robin L.
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This study aimed to explore the association between preterm birth and telomere length of maternal peripheral blood in African American women.

Methods

78 African American women were recruited for this study between 2018 and 2023 from 2 prenatal clinics in central and east Texas. Participants provided blood samples and completed clinic questionnaires, with clinical data collected from their post-delivery medical records. Telomere length was measured using monochrome multiplex quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. Linear regression and multinomial logistic regression were used to analyze the association between telomere length and gestational length. Kruskal–Wallis’s test and Fisher’s exact test were used to compare preterm birth, early-term birth and full-term birth by telomere length, social-demographic characteristics, stress and discrimination.

Results

The rates of preterm birth was higher in pregnant women with shorter telomeres. After adjusting for confounders, for every 10-units increase in the relative telomere-to-single-copy gene (T/S) ratio, gestational days increased by 1.090 days (90% CI 0.182, 1.997), and for every 10-units decrease in the T/S ratio, the odds of preterm birth was 2.664 (90% CI 1.064, 6.673) times greater than the odds of full-term birth. No statistically significant associations were observed between stress, discrimination, and either preterm birth or telomere length.

Conclusions

Maternal peripheral blood telomere shortening is associated with preterm birth, providing support to further explore the clinical utility of maternal telomere testing for prediction and early intervention of preterm birth and the study of biological mechanisms of spontaneous preterm birth.
Clinical characterization of common pathogenic variants of SOD1-ALS in Germany
Authors: Wiesenfarth Maximilian , Forouhideh-Wiesenfarth Yalda , Elmas Zeynep , Parlak Özlem , Weiland Ulrike , Herrmann Christine , Schuster Joachim , Freischmidt Axel , Müller Kathrin , Siebert Reiner , Günther Kornelia , Fröhlich Elke , Knehr Antje , Simak Tatiana , Bachhuber Franziska , Regensburger Martin , Petri Susanne , Klopstock Thomas , Reilich Peter , Schöberl Florian , Schumann Peggy , Körtvélyessy Peter , Meyer Thomas , Ruf Wolfgang P. , Witzel Simon , Tumani Hayrettin , Brenner David , Dorst Johannes , Ludolph Albert C.
Published: August 2024

Pathogenic variants in the Cu/Zn superoxide dismutase (SOD1) gene can be detected in approximately 2% of sporadic and 11% of familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) patients in Europe. We analyzed the clinical phenotypes of 83 SOD1-ALS patients focusing on patients carrying the most frequent (likely) pathogenic variants (R116G, D91A, L145F) in Germany. Moreover, we describe the effect of tofersen treatment on ten patients carrying these variants. R116G patients showed the most aggressive course of disease with a median survival of 22.0 months compared to 198.0 months in D91A and 87.0 months in L145F patients (HR 7.71, 95% CI 2.89–20.58 vs. D91A; p < 0.001 and HR 4.25, 95% CI 1.55–11.67 vs. L145F; p = 0.02). Moreover, R116G patients had the fastest median ALSFRS-R progression rate with 0.12 (IQR 0.07–0.20) points lost per month. Median diagnostic delay was 10.0 months (IQR 5.5–11.5) and therefore shorter compared to 57.5 months (IQR 14.0–83.0) in D91A (p < 0.001) and 21.5 months (IQR 5.8–38.8) in L145F (p = 0.21) carriers. As opposed to D91A carriers (50.0%), 96.2% of R116G (p < 0.001) and 100.0% of L145F (p = 0.04) patients reported a positive family history. During tofersen treatment, all patients showed a reduction of neurofilament light chain (NfL) serum levels, independent of the SOD1 variant. Patients with SOD1-ALS carrying R116G, D91A, or L145F variants show commonalities, but also differences in their clinical phenotype, including a faster progression rate with shorter survival in R116G, and a comparatively benign disease course in D91A carriers.
Endoscopic repair of duodenal perforations, a scoping review
Authors: Williams Jennifer , Joshi Hansa , Schwartz Michael , Kalola Ami , Mercado Alvin , Saracco Benjamin , Adams Amanda , Chaaya Adib , Baik Daniel , Elfant Adam , Hong Young Ki
Published: August 2024

Background

There is a discrepancy in the surgical and endoscopic literature for managing duodenal perforations. Although often managed conservatively, surgical repair is the standard treatment for duodenal perforations. This contrasts with the gastroenterology literature, which now recommends endoscopic repair of duodenal perforations, which are more frequently iatrogenic from the growing field of advanced endoscopic procedures. This study aims to provide a scoping review to summarize the current literature content and quality on endoscopic repair of duodenal perforations.

Methods

The protocol for performing this scoping review was outlined by the Joanna Briggs Institute. All studies that reported primary outcomes of patients who had undergone endoscopic repair of duodenal perforations before February 2022, regardless of perforation etiology or repair type were reviewed, with studies after 1999 meeting inclusion criteria. The study excluded articles that did not report clinical outcomes of endoscopic repair, articles that did not describe where in the gastrointestinal tract the endoscopic repair occurred, pediatric patients, and animal studies.

Results

7606 abstracts were screened, with 474 full articles reviewed and 152 studies met inclusion criteria. 560 patients had duodenal perforations repaired endoscopically, with a technical success rate of 90.4% and a survival rate of 86.7%. Most of these perforations (74.5%) were iatrogenic from endoscopic procedures or surgery. Only one randomized control trial (RCT) was found, and 53% of studies were case reports.

Conclusion

These results suggest that endoscopic repair could emerge as a viable first-line treatment for duodenal perforation and highlight the need for more high-quality research in this topic.
Resistant starch reduces glycolysis by HK2 and suppresses high-fructose corn syrup-induced colon tumorigenesis
Authors: Zhang Ying , Shen Weiyi , Chen Zhehang , He Jiamin , Feng Lijun , Wang Lan , Chen Shujie
Published: August 2024

Background

The intake of high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS) may increase the risk of colorectal cancer (CRC). This study aimed to explore the potential effects and mechanisms of resistant starch (RS) in HFCS-induced colon tumorigenesis.

Methods

The azoxymethane/dextran sodium sulfate (AOM/DSS) and ApcMin/+ mice models were used to investigate the roles of HFCS and RS in CRC in vivo. An immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining analysis was used to detect the expression of proliferation-related proteins in tissues. 16S rRNA sequencing for microbial community, gas chromatography for short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), and mass spectrometry analysis for glycolysis products in the intestines were performed. Furthermore, lactic acid assay kit was used to detect the glycolysis levels in vitro.

Results

RS suppressed HFCS-induced colon tumorigenesis through reshaping the microbial community. Mechanistically, the alteration of the microbial community after RS supplement increased the levels of intestinal SCFAs, especially butyrate, leading to the suppression of glycolysis and CRC cell proliferation by downregulating HK2.

Conclusions

Our study identified RS as a candidate of protective factors in CRC and may provide a potential target for HFCS-related CRC treatment.
Red and near-infrared light-activated photoelectrochemical nanobiosensors for biomedical target detection
Authors: Monsalve Yeison , Cruz-Pacheco Andrés F. , Orozco Jahir
Published: August 2024

Photoelectrochemical (PEC) nanobiosensors integrate molecular (bio)recognition elements with semiconductor/plasmonic photoactive nanomaterials to produce measurable signals after light-induced reactions. Recent advancements in PEC nanobiosensors, using light-matter interactions, have significantly improved sensitivity, specificity, and signal-to-noise ratio in detecting (bio)analytes. Tunable nanomaterials activated by a wide spectral radiation window coupled to electrochemical transduction platforms have further improved detection by stabilizing and amplifying electrical signals. This work reviews PEC biosensors based on nanomaterials like metal oxides, carbon nitrides, quantum dots, and transition metal chalcogenides (TMCs), showing their superior optoelectronic properties and analytical performance for the detection of clinically relevant biomarkers. Furthermore, it highlights the innovative role of red light and NIR-activated PEC nanobiosensors in enhancing charge transfer processes, protecting them from biomolecule photodamage in vitro and in vivo applications. Overall, advances in PEC detection systems have the potential to revolutionize rapid and accurate measurements in clinical diagnostic applications. Their integration into miniaturized devices also supports the development of portable, easy-to-use diagnostic tools, facilitating point-of-care (POC) testing solutions and real-time monitoring.
Investigating the impact of lumping heterogenous conduct problems: aggression and rule-breaking rely on distinct spontaneous brain activity
Authors: Dugré Jules Roger , Potvin Stéphane
Published: August 2024

Accumulating evidence suggests that aggression and rule-breaking may have distinct origins. However, grouping these heterogeneous behaviors into a single dimension labelled Conduct Problems (CP) has become the norm rather than the exception. Yet, the neurobiological features that differentiate aggression and rule-breaking remain largely unexplored. Using a large sample of children and adolescents (n = 1360, 6–18 years old), we examined the common and specific brain activity between CP, aggression, and rule-breaking behaviors. Analyses were conducted using fMRI resting-state data from a 10-minute session to explore the correlations between low frequency fluctuations and both broad and fine-grained CP dimensions. The broad CP dimension was associated with deficits in the precentral gyrus, superior temporal gyrus, and tempo-parietal junction. However, only the superior temporal gyrus was shared between aggression and rule-breaking. Activity of the precentral gyrus was mainly associated with rule-breaking, and the temporo-parietal cortex with aggression. More importantly, voxel-wise analyses on fine-grained dimensions revealed additional specific effects that were initially obscured when using a broad CP dimension. Finally, we showed that the findings specific to aggression and rule-breaking may be related to distinct brain networks and mental functions, especially ventral attention/sensorimotor processes and default mode network/social cognitions, respectively. The current study highlights that aggression and rule-breaking may be related to distinct local and distributed neurobiological markers. Overall, using fine-grained dimensions may provide a clearer picture of the role of neurobiological correlates in CP and their invariance across measurement levels. We advocate for adopting a more thorough examination of the lumping/splitting effect across neuroimaging studies on CP.
Effects of invisible body and optic flow on experience of users voluntarily walking in a VR environment
Authors: Weerashinghe Asiri , Kobayashi Hajime , Nomura Shusaku , Kamiura Moto , Takahashi Tatsuji , Nishiyama Yuta
Published: August 2024

Studies have demonstrated that a multi-modal virtual reality (VR) system can enhance the realism of virtual walking. However, a few studies explore the body awareness altered by visual presentation of virtual body and optic flow during locomotion in VR. This study investigated the impact of invisible body and optic flow on experience of users voluntarily walking in a camera-image VR environment. Participants wearing a head-mounted display performed six-step walking at their own timing. Three experimental conditions providing visible body and optic flow as a baseline, invisible body and optic flow, and invisible body and no flow, were conducted on three different days. We found that losing visual body per se decreased the feeling of being-there-now. However, providing continuous optic flow maintained virtual presence equivalent to the baseline in terms of immersion and natural walking, as opposed to providing discontinuous flow. We discussed these results in association with body awareness.
Adolescent pilonidal disease laser treatment (a-PiLaT): a pilot study
Authors: Romanova A. , Nissen M. , Alrefai M. , Hubertus J. , Deska T. , Senkal M.
Published: August 2024

Background

Pilonidal disease (PD) is an acquired condition related to hair-induced mechanical forces on the skin surface of the intergluteal cleft, with subsequent abscess formation with or without a concomitant draining sinus (pit). While surgical management currently is the mainstay of treatment, pilonidal disease laser treatment (PiLaT) has recently been recognized as a promising treatment option for non-inflammatory diseases. Nonetheless, there is a paucity of available data on adolescent pilonidal disease laser treatment (a-PiLaT).

Methods

We describe our preliminary experience with PiLaT performed in adolescents aged 10–17 years at our tertiary paediatric surgical hospital from 2019 to 2023. Data on perioperative characteristics and clinical outcomes at follow-up were retrospectively analysed.

Results

A total of 17 consecutive patients (n = 12 female, 71%) underwent a-PiLaT. At the time of treatment, the patients’ mean age and body mass index were 13.6 ± 1.6 years and 25.3 ± 5.6 kg m−2, respectively. The mean operative time was 21.5 ± 10.4 min, whereas the mean follow-up period was 24.5 ± 16.8 months, with a complication rate of 24% (n = 4) and recurrence rate of 18% (n = 3). With respect to postsurgical scar assessment, the mean Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale scores (score range 6–60, with higher scores indicating worse outcome) were 14.2 ± 6.5 (patients’ evaluation) and 11.4 ± 4.7 (observers’ evaluation).

Conclusion

The a-PiLaT represents a novel approach for managing PD in adolescents. Our preliminary data on the outcomes of a small series of patients with pilonidal sinuses after a-PiLaT indicated complication and recurrence rates comparable to those reported in the literature for adults. This new minimally invasive technique has great potential and is therefore worthy of further research on a larger population.
Gauging Airbnb review sentiments and critical key-topics by small area estimation
Authors: Frigau Luca , Contu Giulia , Ortu Marco , Carta Andrea
Published: August 2024

In literature, several researchers have discovered that the reviews written about Airbnb accommodation tend to be extremely positive than those published on other famous platforms, consequently, many negative experiences remain untracked. Leaving negative experiences underrepresented hampers hosts’ ability to improve their services. To overcome this gap, we employ Small Area Estimation to quantify negative sentiment in Airbnb reviews and the relative critical topics that characterize them. Our methodology involves a two-step process: first, we employ sentiment analysis and topic modeling to identify negative sentiment and critical issues, followed by the application of a mixed effect random forest model to provide a granular analysis of Airbnb reviews in small sub-populations in the context of small area estimation. We focus on domains of the city of Rome defined by geographical areas and the presence of hosts and Superhosts. Our findings reveal nuanced sentiment variations and critical topic proportions that traditional methods often overlook.