bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of the anti-inflammatory activity of fisetin-loaded nanoparticles in an in vitro model of osteoarthritis
Authors: Nabizadeh Zahra , Nasrollahzadeh Mahmoud , Shabani Ali Akbar , Mirmohammadkhani Majid , Nasrabadi Davood
Published: September 2023

Cartilage lesions, especially osteoarthritis (OA), are a common health problem, causing pain and disability in various age groups, principally in older adults and athletes. One of the main challenges to be considered in cartilage tissue repair is the regeneration of cartilage tissue in an active inflammatory environment. Fisetin has various biological effects including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, apoptotic, and antiproliferative activities. The only disadvantages of fisetin in the pharmaceutical field are its instability and low solubility in aqueous media. This study is aimed at preparing chitosan (CS)-based nanoparticles to yield fisetin with improved bioavailability features. Then, the effect of fisetin-loaded nanoparticles (FNPs) on inflammatory responses in interleukin-1β (IL-1β) pretreated human chondrocytes has also been investigated. FNPs presented an average size of 363.1 ± 17.2 nm and a zeta potential of + 17.7 ± 0.1 mV with encapsulation efficiency (EE) and loading capacity (LC) of 78.79 ± 7.7% and 37.46 ± 6.6%, respectively. The viability of human chondrocytes was not affected by blank nanoparticles (BNPs) up to a concentration of 2000 μg/mL. In addition, the hemolysis results clearly showed that FNPs did not damage the red blood cells (RBCs) and had good hemocompatibility within the range investigated. FNPs, similar to fisetin, were able to inhibit the inflammatory responses induced by IL-1β such as the expression of interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) while increasing the production of an anti-inflammatory cytokine such as interleukin-10 (IL-10). Overall, the in vitro evaluation results of the anti-inflammatory activity showed that FNPs can serve as delivery systems to transfer fisetin to treat inflammation in OA.
Electronic and optical properties of chemically modified 2D GaAs nanoribbons
Authors: Sakr Mahmoud A. S. , Saad Mohamed A. , Abdelsalam Hazem , Teleb Nahed H. , Zhang Qinfang
Published: September 2023

We employed density functional theory calculations to investigate the electronic and optical characteristics of finite GaAs nanoribbons (NRs). Our study encompasses chemical alterations including doping, functionalization, and complete passivation, aimed at tailoring NR properties. The structural stability of these NRs was affirmed by detecting real vibrational frequencies in infrared spectra, indicating dynamical stability. Positive binding energies further corroborated the robust formation of NRs. Analysis of doped GaAs nanoribbons revealed a diverse range of energy gaps (approximately 2.672 to 5.132 eV). The introduction of F atoms through passivation extended the gap to 5.132 eV, while Cu atoms introduced via edge doping reduced it to 2.672 eV. A density of states analysis indicated that As atom orbitals primarily contributed to occupied molecular orbitals, while Ga atom orbitals significantly influenced unoccupied states. This suggested As atoms as electron donors and Ga atoms as electron acceptors in potential interactions. We investigated excited-state electron–hole interactions through various indices, including electron–hole overlap and charge-transfer length. These insights enriched our understanding of these interactions. Notably, UV–Vis absorption spectra exhibited intriguing phenomena. Doping with Te, Cu, W, and Mo induced redshifts, while functionalization induced red/blue shifts in GaAs-34NR spectra. Passivation, functionalization, and doping collectively enhanced electrical conductivity, highlighting the potential for improving material properties. Among the compounds studied, GaAs-34NR-edg-Cu demonstrated the highest electrical conductivity, while GaAs-34NR displayed the lowest. In summary, our comprehensive investigation offers valuable insights into customizing GaAs nanoribbon characteristics, with promising implications for nanoelectronics and optoelectronics applications.
Automatic identification of posteroanterior cephalometric landmarks using a novel deep learning algorithm: a comparative study with human experts
Authors: Lee Hwangyu , Cho Jung Min , Ryu Susie , Ryu Seungmin , Chang Euijune , Jung Young-Soo , Kim Jun-Young
Published: September 2023

This study aimed to propose a fully automatic posteroanterior (PA) cephalometric landmark identification model using deep learning algorithms and compare its accuracy and reliability with those of expert human examiners. In total, 1032 PA cephalometric images were used for model training and validation. Two human expert examiners independently and manually identified 19 landmarks on 82 test set images. Similarly, the constructed artificial intelligence (AI) algorithm automatically identified the landmarks on the images. The mean radial error (MRE) and successful detection rate (SDR) were calculated to evaluate the performance of the model. The performance of the model was comparable with that of the examiners. The MRE of the model was 1.87 ± 1.53 mm, and the SDR was 34.7%, 67.5%, and 91.5% within error ranges of < 1.0, < 2.0, and < 4.0 mm, respectively. The sphenoid points and mastoid processes had the lowest MRE and highest SDR in auto-identification; the condyle points had the highest MRE and lowest SDR. Comparable with human examiners, the fully automatic PA cephalometric landmark identification model showed promising accuracy and reliability and can help clinicians perform cephalometric analysis more efficiently while saving time and effort. Future advancements in AI could further improve the model accuracy and efficiency.
SARS-CoV-2 antibodies recognize 23 distinct epitopic sites on the receptor binding domain
Authors: Jiang Jiansheng , Boughter Christopher T. , Ahmad Javeed , Natarajan Kannan , Boyd Lisa F. , Meier-Schellersheim Martin , Margulies David H.
Published: September 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic and SARS-CoV-2 variants have dramatically illustrated the need for a better understanding of antigen (epitope)-antibody (paratope) interactions. To gain insight into the immunogenic characteristics of epitopic sites (ES), we systematically investigated the structures of 340 Abs and 83 nanobodies (Nbs) complexed with the Receptor Binding Domain (RBD) of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. We identified 23 distinct ES on the RBD surface and determined the frequencies of amino acid usage in the corresponding CDR paratopes. We describe a clustering method for analysis of ES similarities that reveals binding motifs of the paratopes and that provides insights for vaccine design and therapies for SARS-CoV-2, as well as a broader understanding of the structural basis of Ab-protein antigen (Ag) interactions.
Taphonomy of non-biomineralized trilobite tissues preserved as calcite casts from the Ordovician Walcott-Rust Quarry, USA
Authors: Losso Sarah R. , Thines Jennifer E. , Ortega-Hernández Javier
Published: September 2023

Trilobites with appendages from the Rust Formation of New York State were discovered in the 1870s and represent one of the earliest known cases of exceptional preservation of non-biomineralized tissues. The Rust Formation trilobites feature three-dimensionally preserved walking legs and delicate respiratory lamellae, but the mechanism behind their fossilization remains unknown. Here we show that after burial, carcass decay produced framboidal pyrite, while fibrous calcite precipitated on the visceral side of the body, followed by the widespread formation of sparry calcite crystal replicating non-biomineralized morphological features. Trilobites and co-occurring calcite veins show no chemical or petrographic differences, rejecting the hypothesis that exceptional preservation was caused by a local microenvironment within enrolled trilobites. These results suggest that fine-grained sediment provided support for the appendages and facilitated their fossilization through calcite replacement. Our findings carry broader implications for understanding the exceptional three-dimensional preservation of animal Paleozoic body fossils through calcite casts.
Speeding up high-throughput characterization of materials libraries by active learning: autonomous electrical resistance measurements
Authors: Thelen Felix , Banko Lars , Zehl Rico , Baha Sabrina , Ludwig Alfred
Published: September 2023

An autonomous measurement algorithm was implemented in a resistance measurement device which scans materials libraries using active learning. By stopping once a sufficient accuracy is reached, an efficiency improvement of 70–90% can be achieved.
Efficient and stable CF4 decomposition over θ-Al2O3 with extraordinary resistance to HF
Authors: Zhang Hang , Liu Kang , Chen Yingkang , Wang Xiaojian , Li Hongmei , Fu Junwei , Chai Liyuan , Lin Zhang , Liu Min
Published: September 2023

Regulating Al2O3 to θ phase is an effective method for enhancing the stability of CF4 decomposition.
Improved methodology for the analysis of polydisperse engineered and natural colloids by single particle inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (spICP-MS)
Authors: Bevers Shaun G. , Smith Casey , Brown Stephanie , Malone Nathan , Fairbrother D. Howard , Goodman Aaron J. , Ranville James F.
Published: September 2023

Multiple dilutions allow artifact-free analysis of regions of the particle size distribution. Power law modeling leads to larger size analysis range.
Pulsed electric field assisted extraction of soluble proteins from nettle leaves (Urtica dioica L.): kinetics and optimization using temperature and specific energy
Authors: Kronbauer Morgana , Shorstkii Ivan , Botelho da Silva Suse , Toepfl Stefan , Lammerskitten Alica , Siemer Claudia
Published: September 2023

The efficiency of protein extraction from leaves can be boosted by PEF application. The soluble protein yield is strongly impacted by the linear temperature and quadratic specific energy effects, both of which are highly significant.
Tomato-fruit-derived extracellular vesicles inhibit Fusobacterium nucleatum via lipid-mediated mechanism
Authors: Lee Bao-Hong , Wu She-Ching , Chien Hao-Yuan , Shen Tang-Long , Hsu Wei-Hsuan
Published: September 2023

Extracellular vesicles derived from tomato have potential on regulating gut microbiota.
Strategies for applying probiotics in the antibiotic management ofClostridioides difficileinfection
Authors: Yang Jingpeng , Meng Lingtong , Li Yanan , Huang He
Published: September 2023

The choice of the time interval between ‘bacteria and drug’ should be based on the metabolism of antibiotics, different probiotics, probiotic antimicrobial resistance and dosage, the baseline gut ecological environment, and the host immune level.
Green production of ion-conductive and self-healable polymers by photoinduced radical polymerization of ternary deep eutectic monomers
Authors: Tanaka Yuta , Shinohe Reina , Yuki Shingo , Ohashi Takuto , Mori Hideharu
Published: September 2023

We developed ternary deep eutectic monomers (DEMs) for the green production of ion-conductive and self-healable polymeric deep eutectics by photoinduced radical polymerization.
A hydrolytically stable oxo-rhenium(v) antitumor agent for synergistic combination therapy with cisplatin: from synthesis and mechanistic studies to toxicity assessment in zebrafish
Authors: Vaidya Shreyas P. , M Manikandan , Chhatar Sushanta , Dey Saurabh , Patra Chinmoy , Patra Malay
Published: September 2023

A hydrolytically stable oxo-Re(v) complex presents potent in vitro antitumor activity as a single agent or in combination with cisplatin and negligible toxicity in zebrafish.
Synthesis of highly polarized [3]dendralenes and their Diels–Alder reactions
Authors: Antal Rastislav , Staś Monika , Perdomo Stefanie M. , Štemberová Marie , Brůža Zbyněk , Matouš Petr , Kratochvíl Jiří , Růžička Aleš , Rulíšek Lubomír , Kuneš Jiří , Kočovský Pavel , Andris Erik , Pour Milan
Published: September 2023

Strongly electron-deficient dendralenes prepared in 3 steps from methyl propiolate undergo smooth diene-transmissive Diels–Alder reactions with strongly electron-deficient dienophiles.
Organocatalyzed ring-opening reactions of γ-carbonyl-substituted ε-caprolactones
Authors: Ota Takayuki , Montagna Valentina , Higuchi Yuji , Kato Takashi , Tanaka Masaru , Sardon Haritz , Fukushima Kazuki
Published: September 2023

γ-Carbonyl-substituted ε-caprolactones were found to predominantly isomerize to five-membered lactones rather than to form desired linear polyesters in ring-opening polymerization.
Perovskite SrZrO3:Ho3+ phosphors: synthesis, structure, Judd–Ofelt analysis and photoluminescence properties
Authors: Singh Vijay , Seshadri M.
Published: September 2023

A series of SrZrO3:xHo3+ (x = 0.01, 0.03, 0.05, 0.07, 0.09, and 0.11 mol) perovskite phosphors have been synthesized by using the sol–gel technique.
Research progress of bionic fog collection surfaces based on special structures from natural organisms
Authors: Yang Jia-Lei , Song Yun-Yun , Zhang Xu , Zhang Zhong-Qiang , Cheng Guang-Gui , Liu Yan , Lv Guo-Jun , Ding Jian-Ning
Published: September 2023

With the increasing shortage of water resources, people are seeking more innovative ways to collect fog to meet the growing need for production and the demand for livelihood.
Elucidation of the stereocontrol mechanisms of the chemical and biosynthetic intramolecular Diels–Alder cycloaddition for the formation of bioactive decalins
Authors: Kariya Takumi , Hasegawa Hayato , Udagawa Taro , Inada Yusaku , Nishiyama Kyoko , Tsuji Mieko , Hirayama Tasuku , Suzutani Tatsuo , Kato Naoki , Nagano Shingo , Nagasawa Hideko
Published: September 2023

This study elucidates the role of the absolute configuration at the C-6 carbon of the substrate polyene in the stereocontrol of the IMDA reaction catalyzed by Fsa2 and Phm7, which construct different enantiomeric decalin skeletons.
New insights into the electrochemical performance of precursor derived Si(Nb)OC composites as anode materials for batteries
Authors: Vendra S. S. Lokesh , Singh Gurpreet , Kumar Ravi
Published: September 2023

Successfully synthesized Si(Nb)OC composites through single source precursor route and as-pyrolyzed Si(Nb)OC demonstrate good rate capability due to uniformly distributed nanosized Nb2O5and graphitic carbon structure in the amorphous SiOC matrix.
Photo-caged 2-butene-1,4-dial as an efficient, target-specific photo-crosslinker for covalent trapping of DNA-binding proteins
Authors: Li Jiahui , Cui Zenghui , Fan Chaochao , Zhou Yifei , Ren Mengtian , Zhou Chuanzheng
Published: September 2023

Photo-irradiation of PBDA-modified DNA generates a long-lived intermediate that reacts selectively with Lys residues of DNA-binding proteins, leading to higher crosslink yields than traditional photo-crosslinkers such as benzophenone and diazirine.
EXPAR and Au–Ag mushroom-shaped SERS probe assisted detection of exosomal miR-375 in prostate cancer
Authors: Tang Chenxiao , Huang Zhipeng , Li Huixiang , Zhang Ren , Yu Guopeng , Kong Jilie , Chen Hui , Weng Wenhao
Published: September 2023

An EXPAR and Au–Ag mushroom-shaped SERS probe assisted strategy was developed for the detection of exosomal miR-375 in prostate cancer.
Guest-controlled polymorphism and exceptionally marked bi-stability in a spin crossover 3D porous amino-functionalized coordination polymer
Authors: Orellana-Silla Alejandro , Meneses-Sánchez Manuel , Turo-Cortés Rubén , Rubio-Giménez Víctor , Arnauts Giel , Muñoz M. Carmen , Ameloot Rob , Bartual-Murgui Carlos , Real José Antonio
Published: September 2023

The crystal phase change in an amino-functionalized 3D FeII spin crossover compound hosting different guests involves the emergence of large regions of bi-stability whose origin has been interpreted relying on an exhaustive structural study.
Resonance loss due to the polarization accumulation effect induced by phosphorus vacancies for enhancing electromagnetic wave absorption
Authors: Tian Shaoyao , Sun Zhihao , Ding Han , Guo Zihao , Wang Peng , Qiu Yu , Du Benli , Qian Lei
Published: September 2023

CoP nano-cubes with phosphorus vacancies were successfully synthesized, and the phosphorus vacancies make the impedance adaptation region move to low frequency. The great impedance matching and loss capacitance resulted in excellent MA performance.
gm/Id$g_m/I_d$ Analysis of vertical nanowire III–V TFETs
Authors: Rangasamy Gautham , Zhu Zhongyunshen , Fhager Lars Ohlsson , Wernersson Lars‐Erik
Published: September 2023

Experimental data on analog performance of gate‐all‐around III‐V vertical Tunnel Field‐Effect Transistors (TFETs) and circuits are presented. The individual device shows a minimal subthreshold swing of 44 mV/dec and transconductance efficiency of 50 V−1 for current range of 9 nA/μm to 100 nA/μm and at a drain voltage of 100 mV. This TFET demonstrates translinearity between transconductance and drain current for over a decade of current, paving way for low power current‐mode analog IC design. To explore this design principle, a current conveyor circuit is implemented, which exhibits large‐signal voltage gain of 0.89 mV/mV, current gain of 1nA/nA and an operating frequency of 320 kHz. Furthermore, at higher drain bias of 500 mV, the device shows maximum transconductance of 72 μS/μm and maximum drain current of 26 μA/μm. The device, thereby, can be operated as a current mode device at lower bias voltage and as voltage mode device at higher bias voltage.
Using superconductivity to control magnetism: a facet of superconducting spintronics
Authors: Kamra Lina Johnsen , Kamra Akashdeep
Published: September 2023

Magnets are used in electronics to store and read information. A magnetic moment is rotated to a desired direction, so that information can later be retrieved by reading this orientation. Controlling the moment via electric currents causes resistive losses and heating, a major bottleneck in advancing computing technologies. Superconducting spintronics can resolve this using the unique features of superconductors.
Direct and continuous dosing of propofol can saturate Ex vivo ECMO circuit to improve propofol recovery
Authors: Khurana Nitish , Sünner Till , Hubbard Oliver , Imburgia Carina E. , Yellepeddi Venkata , Ghandehari Hamidreza , Watt Kevin M.
Published: September 2023

Background: Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is a cardiopulmonary bypass device that provides life-saving complete respiratory and cardiac support in patients with cardiorespiratory failure. The majority of drugs prescribed to patients on ECMO lack a dosing strategy optimized for ECMO patients. Several studies demonstrated that dosing is different in this population because the ECMO circuit components can adsorb drugs and affect drug exposure substantially. Saturation of ECMO circuit components by drug disposition has been posited but has not been proven. In this study, we have attempted to determine if propofol adsorption is saturable in ex vivo ECMO circuits. Methods: We injected ex vivo ECMO circuits with propofol, a drug that is highly adsorbed to the ECMO circuit components. Propofol was injected as a bolus dose (50 μg/mL) and a continuous infusion dose (6 mg/h) to investigate the saturation of the ECMO circuit. Results: After the bolus dose, only 27% of propofol was recovered after 30 minutes which is as expected. However, >80% propofol was recovered after the infusion dose which persisted even when the infusion dose was discontinued. Conclusion: Our results suggest that if ECMO circuits are dosed directly with propofol, drug adsorption can be eliminated as a cause for altered drug exposure.

Field of Research: Artificial Lung/ECMO
Painful Hallux Sesamoid: A Pictorial Review
Authors: Shah Ankur , Patel Drushi
Published: September 2023

Sesamoids are small bony structures that are either partially or completely embedded in a tendon. Sesamoid bones are found at multiple places in body but most common sites are in foot, with the most consistent location being the metatarsophalangeal joint of great toe. Various pathologies affecting the sesamoid bones of hallux can be a cause of long-standing forefoot pain and discomfort. Imaging helps in diagnosis of these conditions at an early stage. Imaging also helps in differentiating these pathologies from normal variants like bipartite sesamoid bone.
Renal Transplant Complications—A Pictorial Review
Authors: Christopher Navya , Periaswamy Gopinath , Arunachalam Venkatesh Kasi , Poyyamoli Santhosh , Mehta Pankaj , Cherian Mathew
Published: September 2023

Renal transplantation is the most effective treatment for end-stage renal disease, with advanced immunosuppressive therapy and better surgical techniques resulting in better survival of the graft. Despite the advances, complications do occur in the postoperative period and timely diagnosis of the complications is vital for prompt management and salvage of the transplant. This pictorial essay aims to classify the complications of renal transplantation, describe the various imaging modalities used to detect complications, and provide a brief overview of the role of interventional radiology in their management. The complications can be broadly divided into perinephric fluid collections, vascular, collecting system, and parenchymal complications. Imaging including ultrasonography, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, and newer methods like elastography, magnetic resonance imaging arterial spin labeling, diffusion-weighted imaging, diffusion kurtosis imaging, blood oxygenation-level dependent, and magnetic resonance elastography can be used in the diagnosis of these complications. Interventional radiology has advanced a lot in managing them; hence, interventional techniques can be the first choice of treatment in institutions where robust interventional radiology setup is available.
A Rare Occurrence of Demyelinating Lesions of Bilateral Trigeminal Nerves: An Atypical Presentation of Pediatric Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Manfrini Elia , Falcioni Ludovica , Cavassa Vanna , Cocco Eleonora , Sotgiu Stefano , Saba Luca
Published: September 2023

Pontine trigeminal root entry zone is a typical, although uncommon, location for multiple sclerosis (MS) lesions to occur. Here, we present a 17-year-old girl with nausea, vomiting, and vertigo. Neurological examination was consistent with central nystagmus, positive Romberg's test, and left-sided hyperreflexia. Baseline magnetic resonance imaging fulfilled McDonald 2017 criteria for MS and showed T2-hyperintense and T1-hypointense bilateral demyelinating lesions at the intramedullary portion of the trigeminal root of the fifth nerve, with no contrast enhancement or restricted diffusion. Bilateral intrapontine trigeminal involvement is a rare finding in MS, as well as the combined central and peripheral demyelination. Furthermore, very limited information and cases have been described in pediatric patients.
Effect of Target-Driven Sedation Protocol to Ventilator Liberation in Pediatric Intensive Care Unit: Pre- and Postimplementation Single-Center Study
Authors: Alfraij Abdulla , Abdelmoniem Ahmed , Surour Mohammad , Basuni Mohamed , Elseadawy Mohamed
Published: September 2023

Oversedation of mechanically ventilated children is common in many pediatric intensive care units (PICUs). This practice is driven by the challenges of dealing with children of different ages as they have different behavioral, mental, and emotional statuses. We aimed to evaluate the effect of implementing a target-driven sedation protocol in the PICU on ventilator-free days (VFDs), PICU stays, and hospitalization. A 2-year retrospective cohort study was performed in our PICU between October 1, 2018, and October 1, 2020. All intubated children up to 12 years of age were included. Descriptive analyses and a pre- and postintervention comparison of VFDs and length of stay were used to assess the protocol's effectiveness. A total of 134 patients were studied. There was a significant increase in VFDs in cases with respiratory illness requiring mechanical ventilation after implementing this protocol (19.9 vs. 22.3, respectively, with a p-value of 0.031). Also, there was a trend of reduction in the length of PICU stay (median of 9 vs. 8 days, p = 0.816), post-PICU length of stay (median of 4 vs. 3 days, p = 0.055), and hospitalization duration (median of 16 vs. 13 days, p = 0.062) though not statistically significant. Implementing a target-driven sedation protocol in the PICU significantly affects VFDs in mechanically ventilated respiratory cases. Though inconclusive in our study, implementing such a protocol will influence patients' care and reduce unnecessary sedation uses that will reduce sedation hazards.
Will falling domestic labor compensation share really be improved when global trade slowdown?
Authors: Wang Lei , Ramsey Thomas Stephen
Published: September 2023

The participation of Global Value Chains (GVCs) in the world’s major economies has changed from rising to falling since 2010. Based on GVCs income, SDA method and multiple panel regression, this paper explores the cross-cycle effect, mechanism and persistence paths of GVCs participation on domestic labor compensation share in 51 economies from 2000 to 2018. The paper concludes that the overall effect of participating in GVCs on domestic labor compensation share is negative. However, forward participation in GVCs perform better than backward GVCs participation in stabilizing domestic labor compensation share. Capital-biased technological progress and availability of overseas labor are conditions under which the GVCs participation undermines domestic labor compensation share. This paper propose to seize the opportunity to increase the labor compensation share through measures and policies, such as promoting fair competition in domestic market, servitization of industrial structure and the establishment of relational value chains.
The influence of self-quantification on individual’s participation performance and behavioral decision-making in physical fitness activities
Authors: Zhang Yu-dong , Zhang Hui-long , Xie Jia-qin , Zhang Chu-bing
Published: September 2023

As individuals are involved in self-quantification, increasing fields are applying self-quantification with technical support, and a clear understanding of the influencing mechanism and effect boundary of self-quantification is indispensable. Focusing on the field of physical fitness, under different goal settings, the influencing mechanisms of self-quantification on an individual’s participation performance (outcome, experience, persistence intention) and behavioral decision-making (category selection, novelty-seeking) are analyzed and confirmed. The results show that when there is no goal, self-quantification will enhance outcome salience, thus enhancing the individual’s participation outcome and selection for highly healthy categories; self-quantification will reduce perceived enjoyment, thus damaging participation experience and novelty-seeking, but does not affect the persistence intention. When there is a goal, self-quantification will enhance perceived certainty, thus reducing the individual’s participation outcome and selection for highly healthy categories; self-quantification will enhance perceived enjoyment, thus improving the participation experience, persistence intention, and novelty-seeking. Compared to descriptive analysis of phenomena, through laboratory and field experiments, this research confirms the influencing mechanism and effect boundary of self-quantification on an individual’s activity participation performance in real situations. This provides a theoretical basis for understanding the targeted behavioral decision-making patterns of individuals in different types of self-quantification activities.
Repairing spinal cord injuries with electrical stimulation
Authors: Shapiro Maura
Published: September 2023

Promising materials and technological advancements could facilitate practical application of direct current electrical stimulation to regenerate damaged tissue.
Simulations on the shielding performance of composite materials around Jupiter’s radiation belts
Authors: Gao Dawei , Cai Minghui , Yang Tao , Han Ruilong , Xu Liangliang , Han Jianwei
Published: September 2023

The radiation environment in the vicinity of Jupiter is extremely harsh. In this context, dominant high-energy electrons are the main cause of the total ionizing dose that seriously threatens the service life of electronic devices aboard spacecraft. In this study, we explore the shielding effect of aluminum–tantalum composite materials in the energy spectrum of the radiation environment of a probe orbiting Jupiter and the planet’s gravity assist orbit at the edge of the solar system by using Monte Carlo simulations. The results show that when the shielding material was sufficiently thick, the composite shield was superior to a shield composed of a single element. Moreover, the lower the apogee of the orbit around Jupiter was, the higher was the flux in the energy spectrum of the electrons, and it was advantageous to use a thin material in the composite shield in this case. As the thickness of the material increased, the mass ratio of Al in the optimal ratio of the Al–Ta composite material gradually increased. The results of this study provide a reference for designing strong shielding materials to protect against radiation in deep space exploration.
Free vibration of a bi-layered composite plate of a piezoelectric semiconductor and a piezoelectric dielectric
Authors: Guo Jianyu , Nie Guoquan , Liu Jinxi , Zhang Lele
Published: September 2023

We study the free vibration of a piezoelectric bi-layered plate composed of a piezoelectric semiconductor (PS) layer and a piezoelectric dielectric (PD) layer. The macroscopic theory of a PS consisting of the conventional theory of piezoelectricity and the drift-diffusion theory of semiconductors is used. The nonlinear equations for drift currents of electrons and holes are linearized for small perturbation of carrier density. The first-order zigzag approximation for in-plane displacements and electric potential through the thickness of each layer is used. Interfacial continuity of the displacement, the transverse shear stress, and the electric potential between the PS layer and the PD layer is ensured, which is very important and also experienced by layered structures. The number of independent unknown variables is reduced from 11 to 5 by using the interfacial continuity and the zero shear stress conditions at the top and bottom surfaces. The governing equation and corresponding boundary condition are derived using Hamilton’s principle. An analytical solution of a simply supported composite plate is obtained. The effects of steady-state electron density, axial force, and the geometric parameters on the vibration frequency and modes are discussed. The obtained results may be useful for further theoretical analysis of PS composites and practical application of piezotronic devices made from PS and PD materials.
Magnetoresistance in Pd–Co/Cu/Pd–Co trilayer under hydrogen–nitrogen gas mixture
Authors: Akamaru Satoshi , Godo Naoki , Koshimoto Sakie
Published: September 2023

The magnetoresistance of three Pd–Co(1)/Cu/Pd–Co(3) trilayers with different Pd–Co(3) thicknesses were evaluated in a H2–N2 gas mixture. The resistance of Pd–Co/Cu/Pd–Co increased with increasing hydrogen concentration in the gas phase, which is similar to the behavior observed in the Pd metal. The peak structure was shown in the magnetoresistance under a nitrogen atmosphere and was associated with magnetic scattering at the interface between the Pd–Co and Cu layers. In the H2–N2 gas mixture, the peak position and width in the resistance profiles were independent of the hydrogen concentration for all the prepared trilayers, and the peak intensity decreased with increasing hydrogen concentration for the trilayer containing a 4.2 nm thick Pd–Co(3) layer. The decrease in intensity was due to the reduction in magnetization in the Pd–Co layer after hydrogen absorption. The change in the resistance ratio by hydrogen absorption in the trilayer was larger under a high external magnetic field of 170 mT than under a low magnetic field of 10 mT. These results confirmed that the multilayered structure of the Pd–Co/Cu enhances the resistance response to hydrogen under a high magnetic field.
Estimating the contribution of community landscape construction to urban carbon neutrality: methodology and database construction
Authors: Huo Zhaoman , Liu Gengyuan , Yan Ningyu , Li Hui , Shah Aamir Mehmood , Chen Yu , Zhao Bin , Lu Zhongming , Ghisellini Patrizia
Published: September 2023

Green ecological communities have garnered significant interest due to their role in providing urban ecosystem services, and community greening plays a pivotal role in urban environmental enhancement. In the context of carbon neutrality-oriented goals, it is imperative to acknowledge the significance of various landscape designs in carbon sequestration within community greening initiatives. However, there is currently a lack of consideration for landscape designs that promote high carbon sequestration in community greening projects. Our research with literature research and experimental measurement data as data sources, established a database of carbon sequestration of 138 common vegetation species in Shanghai. Based on the vertical vegetation structure within landscape design, we propose seven modular planting structures that reflect the carbon sequestration potential of high-capacity plants within different community green spaces. Our findings reveal substantial variations in carbon sequestration among different tree species within arbor and shrub categories, whereas the differences in carbon sequestration among various herbaceous plants per unit area are comparatively smaller. Among the different combination patterns, the highest carbon sequestration is achieved by the vegetation configuration of the three-layer structure pattern, and the combination of arbors, shrubs and grasses can maximize the effective use of space. This study holds significant importance in optimizing the utilization of limited green spaces within communities and enhancing the carbon sequestration benefits of community landscapes. Ultimately, these efforts contribute significantly to Shanghai’s journey toward carbon neutrality.
A comparative evaluation of equivalent circuit and finite element electrical skin modelling techniques
Authors: Greig T , Yang K , Torah R
Published: September 2023

Mathematical models are essential to our understanding of the electrical properties of the skin. In this paper, two types of simulation model, an equivalent circuit and a finite element simulation were investigated and compared to evaluate their accuracy. Impedance spectra were measured, between 100 Hz and 50 MHz, (the limits of the available spectrum analyser) of a pair of electrodes placed on skin and these spectra used to find the parameters of a standard equivalent circuit model. The resulting indicated that the components of the equivalent circuit may represent different parts of the skin physiology that indicated by the literature. A simulation model was constructed in COMSOL, with the dimensions, permittivity and conductivity of each skin layer taken from across the published literature. This model was tested for sensitivity to the thicknesses of tissue layers as well as the shape of the boundary between layers. It was found that changing the layer thicknesses only had a significant effect for the stratum corneum and dermis, and that changing the shape of the boundary between layers created an impedance change of up to two times at certain higher frequencies (>1 kHz). While the impedance curves generated by the two models had the same overall profile, there was a difference of up to 100 times in their DC impedance values. This indicated that the broad understanding of how electrical signals of different frequencies pass through the skin is correct, but that significant insufficiencies exist in the published properties of the skin layers, particularly the stratum corneum and that finding more accurate values for these properties is necessary for the development of better models.
Predictions from a mathematical approach to model ionic signaling for rapid responses of Sertoli cells exhibit similarities to pharmacological approaches
Authors: Taques Bárbara O M , Gamba Humberto R , Menegaz Danusa , Silva Fátima R M B , Suzuki Daniela O H
Published: September 2023

Sertoli cells are essential for the male reproduction system as they provide morphological support and nutrients for germ cells to guarantee ongoing spermatogenesis. The aim of this work was to predict the electrical properties at the plasma membrane that trigger Sertoli cell rapid responses by involving ionic channels. The rapid responses of Sertoli cells in culture were monitored using patch clamp electrical measurement and compared to data obtained using pharmacological tools (from intact seminiferous tubules). A mathematical model was used to define the roles of potassium channels and the ATP-dependent Na+/K+ pump in these responses. Mathematical data verification was also performed to determine the resting and hormonal stimulated membrane potentials of Sertoli cells in the intact seminiferous tubules and of Sertoli cells in culture (patch clamp measurements). The prediction of these data based on mathematical modeling demonstrated, for the first time, the involvement of potassium channels and the activation of Na+/K+ pump in the hyperpolarization of Sertoli cells and their consequent rapid responses. Moreover, the mathematical analysis showing the involvement of ionic balance in the rapid responses of these cells to hormones, such as follicle-stimulating hormone, is consistent with previous reports obtained using pharmacological techniques in Sertoli cells. Thus, the validation of such data is reliable and represents a first step in the proposition for a mathematical model to predict rapid responses of Sertoli cells to hormonal stimuli.
Persistent impact of winter atmospheric circulation anomalies on Arctic sea ice
Authors: Cai Lei , Alexeev Vladimir A , Zhang Jinlun , Walsh John E
Published: September 2023

According to previous studies, the Arctic Oscillation (AO) in winter has an impact on the evolution of sea ice conditions from winter until the following September. This study explores and compares the sea ice responses to two climatic modes of variability in the winter, the positive phase of the AO and the negative phase of the Arctic Dipole (AD) patterns. This study for the first time verifies that the AD-induced sea ice thickness change is comparable in magnitude to the AO-induced change by the end of the melting season. It proves that the negative AD in winter has a persistent impact on sea ice thickness comparable to the AO has. Furthermore, the AO and AD in the winter impact sea ice conditions in different ways. The AO cannot decrease sea ice thickness until the melting season. Most decreases in sea ice thickness are found over the Beaufort and Chukchi Seas starting in May. On the other hand, the negative AD mostly inhibits sea ice growth during the growing season thermodynamically over the Atlantic sector of the Arctic Ocean. The ensemble means of 22 CMIP6 models can reasonably catch the response of sea ice thickness change to the AO and AD in spatial distribution and temporal evolution. The CMIP6 model ensemble is better at reproducing the AD-induced response of sea ice than the AO-induced response, while the spread of results from individual models is extensive.
A unified approach to thermo-mechano-caloric-characterization of elastocaloric materials
Authors: Louia Franziska , Michaelis Nicolas , Schütze Andreas , Seelecke Stefan , Motzki Paul
Published: September 2023

This paper presents a novel approach to characterizing the relevant mechanical, thermal and caloric properties of elastocalorics material in a single testing device. Usually, tensile experiments are performed to determine the rate- and process-depending stress/strain behavior of nickel-titanium-based shape memory alloys and potentially other elastocaloric materials made from metallic alloys. These tests are relevant for, e.g., characterization of hysteresis properties and subsequent calculation of mechanical work input. In addition, simultaneous observation with an infrared camera is useful to understand temperature evolution and maximum temperature changes achievable during the loading/unloading process. Characterization of the caloric properties of the materials determines latent heats and, together with the mechanical work, also the material coefficient of performance. It is typically carried out via differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), which is performed in a separate device and requires a second experiment with different types of samples. Furthermore, DSC measurements do not reflect the way mechanically induced phase transformations trigger the release and absorption of latent heats as it is the case for elastocalorics. In order to provide a more consistent understanding of the relevant elastocaloric material properties, we here present a novel method that (a) allows for a systematic determination of load-dependent latent heats and (b) introduces a comprehensive testing setup and suitable testing routine to determine the mechanical, thermal and caloric parameters in the same experimental device and with the same sample, thus greatly simplifying the overall procedure.
Air quality and health effects of a transition to ammonia–fueled shipping in Singapore
Authors: Rathod Sagar , Edwards Morgan R , Roy Chaitri , Warnecke Laura , Rafaj Peter , Kiesewetter Gregor , Klimont Zbigniew
Published: September 2023

Ammonia has been proposed to replace heavy fuel oil (HFO) in the shipping industry by 2050. When produced with low-carbon electricity, ammonia can reduce greenhouse gas emissions. However, ammonia emissions also contribute to local air pollution via the formation of secondary particulate matter. We estimate the potential ammonia emissions from storage and bunkering operations for shipping in Singapore, a port that accounts for 20% of global bunker fuel sales, and their impacts on air quality and health. Fuel storage and bunkering can increase total gaseous ammonia emissions in Singapore by up to a factor of four and contribute to a 25%–50% increase in ambient PM2.5 concentration compared to a baseline scenario with HFO, leading to an estimated 210–460 premature mortalities in Singapore (30%–70% higher than the baseline). Proper abatement on storage and bunkering can reduce these emissions and even improve ambient PM2.5 concentrations compared to the baseline. Overall, while an energy transition from HFO to ammonia in the shipping industry could reduce global greenhouse gas and air pollutant burdens, local policies will be important to avoid negative impacts on the communities living near its supply chain.
Living at the edge: the functional niche occupation of woody plant communities in the submediterranean ecotone
Authors: de la Riva Enrique G , Prieto Iván , de Tomás Marín Sergio , Rodríguez-Calcerrada Jesús , Golabvand Pardis , Galán Díaz Javier
Published: September 2023

Background and Aims

Submediterranean areas are rich ecotones, where slight modifications in environmental conditions can lead to substantial changes in the composition of plant communities. They thus offer an ideal scenario to examine plant community assembly. In this study, we followed a trait-based approach including intraspecific variability to elucidate (1) the relationship between niche occupancy components and species richness, (2) the processes governing the assembly of these communities and (3) the contribution of intraspecific trait variability in shaping the functional trait space.

Methods

We measured eight morphological and chemical traits in 405 individuals across 60 plots located in different forest communities (Mediterranean, Eurosiberian and Mixed) coexisting within a submediterranean ecosystem in central Spain. We calculated three niche occupancy components related to Hutchinson’s n-dimensional hypervolumes: the total functional volume of the community, the functional overlap between species within the community and the average functional volume per species, and then used null models to explore the relative importance of habitat filtering, limiting similarity and intraspecific variability as assembly patterns.

Key Results

Both habitat filtering and niche differentiation drive the community assembly of Mediterranean communities, whereas limiting similarity and hierarchical competition shape Eurosiberian communities. Intraspecific responses were mostly explained by shifts in species niches across the functional space (changes in the position of the centroids of hypervolumes).

Conclusions

Different assembly mechanisms govern the structure of Mediterranean, Eurosiberian and Mixed plant communities. Combining niche occupancy components with a null model approach at different spatial scales offers new insights into the mechanisms driving plant community assembly. Consideration of intraspecific variability is key for understanding the mechanisms governing species coexistence in species-rich ecotones.
Percutaneous coronary intervention for ST-elevation myocardial infarction complicated by cardiogenic shock in a super-aging society
Authors: Nishihira Kensaku , Honda Satoshi , Takegami Misa , Kojima Sunao , Takahashi Jun , Itoh Tomonori , Watanabe Tetsu , Yamashita Jun , Saji Mike , Tsujita Kenichi , Takayama Morimasa , Sumiyoshi Tetsuya , Kimura Kazuo , Yasuda Satoshi
Published: September 2023

Aims

ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction complicated by cardiogenic shock (STEMICS) is associated with substantial mortality. As life expectancy increases, percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is being performed more frequently, even in elderly patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI). This study sought to investigate the characteristics and impact of PCI on in-hospital mortality in patients with STEMICS.

Methods and results

The Japan AMI Registry (JAMIR) is a retrospective, nationwide, real-world database. Among 46 242 patients with AMI hospitalized in 2011–2016, 2760 patients with STEMICS (median age, 72 years) were studied. We compared 2396 (86.8%) patients who underwent PCI with 364 (13.2%) patients who did not. The percentage of mechanical circulatory support use in patients with STEMICS was 69.3% and in-hospital mortality was 34.6%. Compared with patients who did not undergo PCI, patients undergoing PCI were younger and had a higher rate of intra-aortic balloon pump use. A higher proportion was male or current smokers. In-hospital mortality was significantly lower in the PCI group than in the no-PCI group (31.3% vs. 56.0%, P < 0.001). Percutaneous coronary intervention was independently associated with lower in-hospital mortality [adjusted odds ratio (OR), 0.508; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.347–0.744]. In 789 (28.6%) patients aged ≥80 years, PCI was associated with fewer in-hospital cardiac deaths (adjusted OR, 0.524; 95% CI, 0.281–0.975), but was not associated with in-hospital mortality (adjusted OR, 0.564; 95% CI, 0.300–1.050).

Conclusion

In Japan, PCI was effective in reducing in-hospital cardiac death in elderly patients with STEMICS. Age alone should not preclude potentially beneficial invasive therapy.
Marketing
Authors: Baines Paul , Rosengren Sara , Antonetti Paolo
Published: September 2023

Marketing answers questions such as: How does Google support organizations in their transformation to digital marketing? How does the International Food Waste Coalition influence more sustainable behaviour? How did a producer of Thai herbal toothpaste amend their marketing mix to maintain sales during COVID-19? The text is made up of four parts. The first part looks at core principles, contexts, and customers, and includes discussion on business to business marketing, consumer buying behaviour, and the marketing environment. The second part is about marketing strategy. It looks at branding and market segmentation as well as international marketing and development. The third part is concerned with marketing tactics such as price and customer value, digital and social media marketing. The final part covers marketing and society which encompasses not-for-profit and social marketing, sustainability and ethics.