bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled clinical trial on Lactobacillus-containing cultured milk drink as adjuvant therapy for depression in irritable bowel syndrome
Authors: Sarkawi Marlynna , Raja Ali Raja Affendi , Abdul Wahab Norhazlina , Abdul Rathi Norshafila Diana , Mokhtar Norfilza Mohd
Published: April 2024

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is frequently linked with coexisting mental illnesses. Our previous study discovered that 32.1% of IBS patients had subthreshold depression (SD), placing them at higher risk of developing major depression. Gut microbiota modulation through psychobiotics was found to influence depression via the gut-brain axis. However, the efficacy of lessening depression among IBS patients remains ambiguous. The study’s aim was to investigate the roles of cultured milk drinks containing 109 cfu Lactobacillus acidophilus LA-5 and Lactobacillus paracasei L. CASEI-01 on depression and related variables among IBS participants with SD. A total of 110 IBS participants with normal mood (NM) and SD, were randomly assigned to one of four intervention groups: IBS-NM with placebo, IBS-NM with probiotic, IBS-SD with placebo, and IBS-SD with probiotic. Each participant was required to consume two bottles of cultured milk every day for a duration of 12 weeks. The following outcomes were assessed: depression risk, quality of life, the severity of IBS, and hormonal changes. The depression scores were significantly reduced in IBS-SD with probiotic and placebo from baseline (p < 0.001). Only IBS-SD with probiotic showed a significant rise in serotonin serum levels (p < 0.05). A significantly higher life quality measures were seen in IBS-SD with probiotic, IBS-SD with placebo, and IBS-NM with placebo (p < 0.05). All groups, both placebo and probiotic, reported significant improvement in IBS severity post-intervention with a higher prevalence of remission and mild IBS (p < 0.05). Dual strains lactobacillus-containing cultured milk drink via its regulation of relevant biomarkers, is a potential anti-depressive prophylactic agent for IBS patients at risk.
Experimental research and application of drilling and blasting with directional damage-reduction shaped charge
Authors: Liu Kaixing , Zhang Yi ping , Peng Yifei , Wu Lianhua
Published: April 2024

In this research, a directional reduction charging structure was proposed to solve the problems caused by drilling and blasting method such as serious damage to surrounding rocks, working face low contour flatness and serious over-under break of root base c. Drilling and blasting tests, numerical calculations and field applications were designed and performed for the verification of the blasting advantages of charge structure. Test results showed that the peak positive strain along the protection direction of directional protection shaped charge was significantly smaller than that of ordinary charge, where PVC material presented the strongest effect such that the peak positive strain of specimen 1 at measuring point 4 (protection direction) was only 0.27 times that at measuring point 9 (non-protected direction). Numerical simulations indicated shaped jet formation, damage-reduction and charge penetration process and obtained the force law of cement target plate. Experimental results revealed that application of charge in tunnel controlled blasting achieved a clear controlling effect on contour line excavation. Compared with ordinary smooth blasting method, all technical indicators of the developed method were improved such that half hole mark rate was increased by about 33% and the amount of over-under break was decreased by about two times. Research results are of certain significance for the stability of surrounding reserved rocks and formation of roadway in blasting engineering and the developed method was found to be applicable to mining, shaft excavation and other projects.
Additive roles of antiferromagnetically coupled elements in the magnetic proximity effect in the GdFeCo/Pt system
Authors: Kee Jung Yun , Kim Kook Tae , Lee In Hak , Seo Ilwan , Chang Jun-Young , Lee Ah-Yeon , Noh Woo-suk , Chang Young Jun , Park Seung-Young , Choe Sug-Bong , Kim Duck-Ho , Kim Kyoung-Whan , Choi Yongseong , Lee Dong Ryeol , Choi Jun Woo
Published: April 2024

Interfacial magnetic interactions between different elements are the origin of various spin-transport phenomena in multi-elemental magnetic systems. We investigate the coupling between the magnetic moments of the rare-earth, transition-metal, and heavy-metal elements across the interface in a GdFeCo/Pt thin film, an archetype system to investigate ferrimagnetic spintronics. The Pt magnetic moments induced by the antiferromagnetically aligned FeCo and Gd moments are measured using element-resolved x-ray measurements. It is revealed that the proximity-induced Pt magnetic moments are always aligned parallel to the FeCo magnetic moments, even below the ferrimagnetic compensation temperature where FeCo has a smaller moment than Gd. This is understood by a theoretical model showing distinct effects of the rare-earth Gd 4f and transition-metal FeCo 3d magnetic moments on the Pt electronic states. In particular, the Gd and FeCo work in-phase to align the Pt moment in the same direction, despite their antiferromagnetic configuration. The unexpected additive roles of the two antiferromagnetically coupled elements exemplify the importance of detailed interactions among the constituent elements in understanding magnetic and spintronic properties of thin film systems.
Thermodynamic analog of integrate-and-fire neuronal networks by maximum entropy modelling
Authors: Simões T. S. A. N. , Filho C. I. N. Sampaio , Herrmann H. J. , Andrade J. S. , de Arcangelis L.
Published: April 2024

Recent results have evidenced that spontaneous brain activity signals are organized in bursts with scale free features and long-range spatio-temporal correlations. These observations have stimulated a theoretical interpretation of results inspired in critical phenomena. In particular, relying on maximum entropy arguments, certain aspects of time-averaged experimental neuronal data have been recently described using Ising-like models, allowing the study of neuronal networks under an analogous thermodynamical framework. This method has been so far applied to a variety of experimental datasets, but never to a biologically inspired neuronal network with short and long-term plasticity. Here, we apply for the first time the Maximum Entropy method to an Integrate-and-fire (IF) model that can be tuned at criticality, offering a controlled setting for a systematic study of criticality and finite-size effects in spontaneous neuronal activity, as opposed to experiments. We consider generalized Ising Hamiltonians whose local magnetic fields and interaction parameters are assigned according to the average activity of single neurons and correlation functions between neurons of the IF networks in the critical state. We show that these Hamiltonians exhibit a spin glass phase for low temperatures, having mostly negative intrinsic fields and a bimodal distribution of interaction constants that tends to become unimodal for larger networks. Results evidence that the magnetization and the response functions exhibit the expected singular behavior near the critical point. Furthermore, we also found that networks with higher percentage of inhibitory neurons lead to Ising-like systems with reduced thermal fluctuations. Finally, considering only neuronal pairs associated with the largest correlation functions allows the study of larger system sizes.
A population-based propensity score matching analysis of risk factors and the impact on survival associated with refusal of cancer-directed surgery in patients with prostate cancer
Authors: Tang Yuanyuan , Gao Yunliang , Zhang Ruochen , Li Tao , Yang Yaojing , Huang Li , Wei Yongbao
Published: April 2024

Cancer-directed surgeries (CDS) play a crucial role in prostate cancer (PCa) management along with possible survival and therapeutic benefits. However, barriers such as socioeconomic factors may affect patients’ decision of refusing recommended CDS. This study aimed to uncover risk factors and the impact on survival associated with CDS refusal. We retrospectively reviewed the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database for patients diagnosed with PCa between 2000 and 2019. Multiple sociodemographic and clinical characteristics were extracted to assess predictors for physicians’ surgical recommendations and patients’ surgical refusal, respectively. Propensity score matching was performed to balance the covariates. The impact of surgical refusal on mortality risk was also investigated. A total of 185,540 patients were included. The physician’s recommendation of CDS was significantly influenced by the patient’s age, race, income, home location, diagnosis year, Gleason score, prostate-specific antigen (PSA), and TNM stage. About 5.6% PCa patients refused CDS, most of whom were older, non-White race, lack of partners, living outside of metropolitan areas, with higher PSA or lower clinical TNM stage. Patients who refused CDS had an increased risk of cancer-specific mortality and overall mortality than those who performed CDS. Physicians may weigh a host of sociodemographic and clinical factors prior to making a CDS recommendation. Patients’ refusal of recommended CDS affected survival and was potentially modifiable by certain sociodemographic factors. Physicians should fully consider the hindrances behind patients’ CDS refusal to improve patient-doctor shared decision-making, guide patients toward the best alternative and achieve better outcomes.
Phylogenomics of Psammodynastes and Buhoma (Elapoidea: Serpentes), with the description of a new Asian snake family
Authors: Das Sunandan , Greenbaum Eli , Brecko Jonathan , Pauwels Olivier S. G. , Ruane Sara , Pirro Stacy , Merilä Juha
Published: April 2024

Asian mock vipers of the genus Psammodynastes and African forest snakes of the genus Buhoma are two genera belonging to the snake superfamily Elapoidea. The phylogenetic placements of Psammodynastes and Buhoma within Elapoidea has been extremely unstable which has resulted in their uncertain and debated taxonomy. We used ultraconserved elements and traditional nuclear and mitochondrial markers to infer the phylogenetic relationships of these two genera with other elapoids. Psammodynastes, for which a reference genome has been sequenced, were found, with strong branch support, to be a relatively early diverging split within Elapoidea that is sister to a clade consisting of Elapidae, Micrelapidae and Lamprophiidae. Hence, we allocate Psammodynastes to its own family, Psammodynastidae new family. However, the phylogenetic position of Buhoma could not be resolved with a high degree of confidence. Attempts to identify the possible sources of conflict in the rapid radiation of elapoid snakes suggest that both hybridisation/introgression during the rapid diversification, including possible ghost introgression, as well as incomplete lineage sorting likely have had a confounding role. The usual practice of combining mitochondrial loci with nuclear genomic data appears to mislead phylogeny reconstructions in rapid radiation scenarios, especially in the absence of genome scale data.
Study on heat transfer law of moving temperature variable gas in thermoacoustic plate stack
Authors: Wang Jianxin , Liu Xiangbin
Published: April 2024

Taking gas and the heat transfer process between gas and plate as the research object, the mathematical model of heat transfer in one working cycle by moving variable temperature air mass under the action of sound field is established, which provides a new idea for understanding thermoacoustic effect. The influence factors in the model are analyzed and it is found that the amplitude of the air mass has a significant influence on the heat transfer, and the heat transfer of the air mass in one working cycle is proportional to the square of the amplitude. In a certain working environment, the thermoacoustic refrigerator has a critical operating frequency, and only when the operating frequency is greater than the critical frequency can refrigeration be realized. The critical operating frequency is independent of the amplitude and increases with the increase of the stack temperature gradient. With the pressure belly point as the reference position, the greater the distance from the reference position, the greater the critical operating frequency. On this basis, the idea of short plate overlapping is put forward and the formation mechanism of temperature difference between two ends of plate overlapping is explained.
Trait impulsivity influences behavioural and physiological responses to threat in a virtual environment
Authors: Baker Christopher , Fairclough Stephen , Ogden Ruth S. , Barnes Rachel , Tootill Jessica
Published: April 2024

Trait impulsivity represents a tendency to take action without forethought or consideration of consequences. This trait is multifaceted and can be decomposed into attentional, motor and non-planning subtypes of impulsivity. The purpose of the current study was to investigate how subtypes of trait impulsivity responded to different degrees of threat within room-scale virtual reality (VR) with respect to behaviour and level of physiological activation. Thirty-four participants were required to negotiate a virtual environment (VE) where they walked at height with the continuous threat of a virtual ‘fall.’ Behavioural measures related to the speed of movement, interaction frequency and risk were collected. Participants also wore ambulatory sensors to collect data from electrocardiogram (ECG) and electrodermal activity (EDA). Our results indicated that participants who scored highly on non-planning impulsivity exhibited riskier behaviour and higher skin conductance level (SCL). Participants with higher motor impulsivity interacted with more objects in the VE when threat was high, they also exhibited contradictory indicators of physiological activation. Attentional impulsivity was associated with a greater number of falls across the VE. The results demonstrate that subtypes of trait impulsivity respond to threats via different patterns of behaviour and levels of physiological activation, reinforcing the multifaceted nature of the trait.
Low-cost and efficient prediction hardware for tabular data using tiny classifier circuits
Authors: Iordanou Konstantinos , Atkinson Timothy , Ozer Emre , Kufel Jedrzej , Aligada Grace , Biggs John , Brown Gavin , Luján Mikel
Published: April 2024

A typical machine learning development cycle maximizes performance during model training and then minimizes the memory and area footprint of the trained model for deployment on processing cores, graphics processing units, microcontrollers or custom hardware accelerators. However, this becomes increasingly difficult as machine learning models grow larger and more complex. Here we report a methodology for automatically generating predictor circuits for the classification of tabular data. The approach offers comparable prediction performance to conventional machine learning techniques as substantially fewer hardware resources and power are used. We use an evolutionary algorithm to search over the space of logic gates and automatically generate a classifier circuit with maximized training prediction accuracy, which consists of no more than 300 logic gates. When simulated as a silicon chip, our tiny classifiers use 8–18 times less area and 4–8 times less power than the best-performing machine learning baseline. When implemented as a low-cost chip on a flexible substrate, they occupy 10–75 times less area, consume 13–75 times less power and have 6 times better yield than the most hardware-efficient ML baseline.
Multifaceted regulation of siderophore synthesis by multiple regulatory systems in Shewanella oneidensis
Authors: Xie Peilu , Xu Yuanyou , Tang Jiaxin , Wu Shihua , Gao Haichun
Published: April 2024

Siderophore-dependent iron uptake is a mechanism by which microorganisms scavenge and utilize iron for their survival, growth, and many specialized activities, such as pathogenicity. The siderophore biosynthetic system PubABC in Shewanella can synthesize a series of distinct siderophores, yet how it is regulated in response to iron availability remains largely unexplored. Here, by whole genome screening we identify TCS components histidine kinase (HK) BarA and response regulator (RR) SsoR as positive regulators of siderophore biosynthesis. While BarA partners with UvrY to mediate expression of pubABC post-transcriptionally via the Csr regulatory cascade, SsoR is an atypical orphan RR of the OmpR/PhoB subfamily that activates transcription in a phosphorylation-independent manner. By combining structural analysis and molecular dynamics simulations, we observe conformational changes in OmpR/PhoB-like RRs that illustrate the impact of phosphorylation on dynamic properties, and that SsoR is locked in the ‘phosphorylated’ state found in phosphorylation-dependent counterparts of the same subfamily. Furthermore, we show that iron homeostasis global regulator Fur, in addition to mediating transcription of its own regulon, acts as the sensor of iron starvation to increase SsoR production when needed. Overall, this study delineates an intricate, multi-tiered transcriptional and post-transcriptional regulatory network that governs siderophore biosynthesis.
4D hydrogels: fabrication strategies, stimulation mechanisms, and biomedical applications
Authors: Nain Amit , Chakraborty Srishti , Jain Nipun , Choudhury Saswat , Chattopadhyay Suravi , Chatterjee Kaushik , Debnath Souvik
Published: April 2024

4D hydrogels mimic anisotropic tissue composition due to non-uniform distribution of internal stresses within them. Herein, we discuss the strategies used to fabricate programmable hydrogels in response to environmental cues for biomedical applications.
A label-free photoelectrochemical biosensor for silver ions based on Zn–Co doped C and CdS QD nanomaterials
Authors: Zhang Lu , Wang Kun , Zhou Feng , Bu Yuwei , Yang Xiaoyan , Nie Guangming
Published: April 2024

A photoelectrochemical (PEC) biosensor for silver ion (Ag+) detection was constructed based on Zn–Co doped C and CdS quantum dot (CdS QD) nanomaterials.
Photoactivated full-API nanodrug (FAND): harnessing transition metal complexes and MTH1 inhibitor for enhanced DNA damage in cancer cells
Authors: Zhu Huiyun , Cui Maozhi , Tang Qiang , Zhao Hua , Zhang Pu , Zeng Shengmei , Li Weiyu , Zhou Qianxiong , Zhang Jinfeng , Chen Yongjie
Published: April 2024

The photoactivated nanodrug Ru–T FAND by self-assembly of RuDPB and TH287 was developed to achieve triple anti-cancer therapy.
Achieving long-lived white circularly polarized luminescence from carbonized polymer dots via phosphorescence resonance energy transfer
Authors: Wang Feixiang , Wang Yijie , Guo Rui , Wu Yushuang , Zhou Shengju , Xiao Haibin , Sun Xiaofeng
Published: April 2024

Benefiting from the efficient triplet-to-singlet phosphorescence resonance energy transfer, carbonized polymer dot-based warm white circularly polarized luminescence has been achieved for the first time.
An AIE-based fluorescent probe to detect peroxynitrite levels in human serum and its cellular imaging
Authors: Kim Jaewon , Yoo Jiyoung , Kim Byungkook , Lee Kyung-Woo , Kim Sunghyun , Hong Sukwon , Kim Jong Seung
Published: April 2024

Presenting Mt-NI-2: a fluorescent probe for peroxynitrite levels in human serum and mitochondria. It utilizes as a diagnostic tool for neurodegenerative diseases, facilitating in-depth exploration of their underlying mechanisms.
Discovery of superconductivity in technetium borides at moderate pressures
Authors: Tao Xiangru , Yang Aiqin , Quan Yundi , Wan Biao , Yang Shuxiang , Zhang Peng
Published: April 2024

Unprecedented superconductivity is discovered in technetium borides that stay dynamically stable at moderate or even ambient pressure.
Tailoring cobalt spinel oxide with site-specific single atom incorporation for high-performance electrocatalysis
Authors: Lee Kangjae , Shim Jaehyuk , Ji Hyunsoo , Kim Jungho , Lee Hyeon Seok , Shin Heejong , Bootharaju Megalamane S. , Lee Kug-Seung , Ko Wonjae , Lee Jaewoo , Kim Kang , Yoo Seungwoo , Heo Sungeun , Ryu Jaeyune , Back Seoin , Lee Byoung-Hoon , Sung Yung-Eun , Hyeon Taeghwan
Published: April 2024

Ta5+ dopants tend to stabilize on the surface of Co3O4, significantly increasing the surface Co2+ species. This dopant-rich shell and the high density of surface Co2+ provide active and protective layers, resulting in high-performance in acidic OER.
Engineering Pt–CeO2interfaces for reverse water-gas shift (RWGS) reaction
Authors: dos Santos Kauê G. G. , Thill Alisson S. , Matte Livia P. , Girotto Gustavo Z. , Costa Mateus V. , Bohn Denise R. , Poletto Fernanda , Bernardi Fabiano
Published: April 2024

Pt–CeO2interfaces with superhydrophobic and highly reducible CeO2are designed with improved properties for the RWGS reaction.
Magnifying the turn-on luminescence and electrical conductivity via the coupling effect of oxidation, metal ion adhesion and pressure within MnII-MOFs
Authors: Shi Ting-chang , Li Zhi-hui , Dong Zhiyue , Zeng Ming-Hua , Xu Hai-Bing
Published: April 2024

Magnifying the turn-on luminescence and electrical resistivity of MnII2-MOFs through the coupled effect of oxidation, metal ion adhesion, and pressure.
Chemical synthesis and super capacitance performance of novel CuO@Cu4O3/rGO/PANI nanocomposite electrode
Authors: Enaiet Allah Abeer , Mohamed Fatma , Ghanem Mohamed A. , Ahmed Ashour M.
Published: April 2024

Copper oxide-based nanocomposites are promising electrode materials for high-performance supercapacitors due to their unique properties that aid electrolyte access and ion diffusion to the electrode surface.
Synthesis and characterization of novel poly cysteine methacrylate nanoparticles and their morphology and size studies
Authors: Kareem Yaseen G. , Rachid Shwan , Al-Jaf O.
Published: April 2024

Polymer nanoparticles (PNPs) have significantly advanced the field of biomedicine, showcasing the remarkable potential for precise drug delivery, administration of nutraceuticals, diagnostics/imaging applications, and the fabrication of biocompatible materials, among other uses.
Improved isoprene detection performance of Si-doped WO3 films deposited by sputtering and post-annealing
Authors: Lin Pin-Kuan , Qin Yi , Qi Xiaoding , Huang Liji
Published: April 2024

Sputtered films of Si-doped WO3 showed a good selective sensing for isoprene with rapid response/recovery times, which were less than 1.5 and 3.0 seconds, respectively.
Determination of moxifloxacin in milk using a ratiometric fluorescent sensor based on Ag-MOF@curcumin
Authors: Zhao Jiaxing , Wang Kedan , Song Yu , Li Lu , Yang Fan , Zhao Lijuan , Wang Qihui , Deng Guowei
Published: April 2024

Moxifloxacin (MFX) has attracted increasing public concern recently, and the development of a simple and effective analysis method has become a research focus.
Accelerating carrier separation to boost the photocatalytic CO2 reduction performance of ternary heterojunction Ag–Ti3C2Tx/ZnO catalysts
Authors: Han Qilin , Wu Zhiyao , Zhou Yu , Lei Yongxin , Nie Bingying , Yang Leilei , Zhong Wenbin , Wang Nannan , Zhu Yanqiu
Published: April 2024

Developing low-cost and efficient photocatalyst/co-catalyst systems that promote CO2 reduction remains a challenge.
Reactivity of phenoxathiin-based thiacalixarenes towards C-nucleophiles
Authors: Mamleev Kamil , Čejka Jan , Eigner Václav , Krupička Martin , Dvořáková Hana , Lhoták Pavel
Published: April 2024

Phenoxathiin-based macrocycles react with RLi reagents to form a number of different products resulting from cleavage of the calixarene backbone or heterocyclic group.
The fabrication of robust and highly efficient oil–water separation filters via the high temperature sintering of silica micropower
Authors: Sadler Emma , Crick Colin R.
Published: April 2024

Superhydrophobic materials have been shown to have many attractive properties, however, their functionality can easily be lost due to the failure of the air layer.
Preparation of cyclodextrin polymer-functionalized polyaniline/MXene composites for high-performance supercapacitor
Authors: He Tingting , Li Xusen , Sun Bingxin , Lin Liwei , Guo Fang , Diao Guowang , Piao Yuanzhe , Zhang Wang
Published: April 2024

PANI was successfully grown in situ on the surface of MXene derived from CDP. The composite exhibited a good specific surface area and high specific capacitance.
Directed evolution of Escherichia coli surface-displayed Vitreoscilla hemoglobin as an artificial metalloenzyme for the synthesis of 5-imino-1,2,4-thiadiazoles
Authors: Xu Yaning , Li Fengxi , Xie Hanqing , Liu Yuyang , Han Weiwei , Wu Junhao , Cheng Lei , Wang Chunyu , Li Zhengqiang , Wang Lei
Published: April 2024

Escherichia coli surface-displayed Vitreoscilla hemoglobin as an artificial metalloenzyme for the synthesis of 5-imino-1,2,4-thiadiazoles.
Improving electron transportation and operational lifetime of full color organic light emitting diodes through a “weak hydrogen bonding cage” structure
Authors: Zhou Huayi , Li Tengyue , Xie Mingliang , Zhou Yannan , Sun Qikun , Zhang Shi-Tong , Zhang Yujian , Yang Wenjun , Xue Shanfeng
Published: April 2024

We report an electron-transporting material with a special long-range ordered “weak hydrogen bonding cage” (PICN), which exhibits high electron mobility. Excellent performances are realized in full color OLEDs with high efficiencies and long operation lifetimes.
Enantioconvergent synthesis of chiral fluorenols from racemic secondary alcohols via Pd(ii)/chiral norbornene cooperative catalysis
Authors: Ding Bo , Xue Qilin , Wei Han , Chen Jiangwei , Liu Ze-Shui , Cheng Hong-Gang , Cong Hengjiang , Tang Jianting , Zhou Qianghui
Published: April 2024

An enantioconvergent strategy for the synthesis of chiral fluorenols from racemic secondary alcohols has been disclosed enabled by Pd(ii)/NBE* cooperative catalysis. The reaction has good functional group compatibility and high enantioselectivity.
β-Terrecyclene synthase constructs the quadrane backbone in terrecyclic acid biosynthesis
Authors: Song Yongxiang , Wang Wengui , Yang Jiafan , Gao Dewei , Billingsley John M. , Wang Songtao , Zhu Yiguang , Wang Junfeng , Ju Jianhua , Yan Yan , Tang Yi
Published: April 2024

The construction of a quadrane scaffold by β-terrecyclene synthase via Coates' route is demonstrated through mutagenesis and isotopically sensitive branching studies. Subsequent enzymatic modifications convert β-terrecyclene into terrecyclic acid.
Garnet-based solid lithium metal batteries with ultralong lifespan enabled by solvent-free trifluoroacetic acid-induced interfacial engineering
Authors: Hu Xia , Wang Yao , Guo Weiqian , Tian Yao , Zhang Xiang , Kang Feiyu , Zhou Dong , Li Baohua
Published: April 2024

A waste-to-treasure strategy is proposed to transform contaminant Li2CO3 on LLZTO surface into LiF by solvent-free TFA. The formed lithophilic LiF layer with high electron insulation contributes to the realization of ultralong life batteries.
Low temperature UV cross-linked fluorinated polyurethane for organic thin film transistors
Authors: Duan Ruixia , Liu Sixu , Liu Xuying , Huang Miaoming , He Suqin , Liu Hao , Liu Wentao , Zhu Chengshen
Published: April 2024

A FPU dielectric can be cured quickly at low temperature by UV cross-linking, for use in flexible devices; it is suitable for large-area preparation by a solution method and has good solvent resistance. OTFTs with FPU perform better than those with a PU dielectric.
New ionic mesogens with high ionic conductivity based on a cyanoborate building block and lipophilic or hydrophilic counter ions
Authors: Lehmann Matthias , Weinberger Pascal , Finze Maik , Giffin Guinevere A. , Weller Mario , Bachmann Stephanie , Pöppler Ann-Christin
Published: April 2024

Ionic liquid crystals based on immobilised, low nucleophilic cyanoborates are designed forming SmA bilayer phases with the lowest density in ionic sections leading to considerable ion conductivity values. Structural details vary with the cation nature.
Exploring potential developmental origins of common neurodegenerative disorders
Authors: Catlin James P. , Schaner Tooley Christine E.
Published: April 2024

In the United States, it is now estimated that 6.7 million people over the age of 65 are afflicted by Alzheimer's disease (AD), over 1 million people are living with Parkinson's disease (PD), and over 200 000 have or are at risk for developing Huntington's disease (HD). All three of these neurodegenerative diseases result in the ultimate death of distinct neuronal subtypes, and it is widely thought that age-related damage is the single biggest contributing factor to this neuronal death. However, recent studies are now suggesting that developmental defects during early neurogenesis could also play a role in the pathology of neurodegenerative diseases. Loss or overexpression of proteins associated with HD, PD, and AD also result in embryonic phenotypes but whether these developmental defects slowly unmask over time and contribute to age-related neurodegeneration remains highly debated. Here, we discuss known links between embryonic neurogenesis and neurodegenerative disorders (including common signaling pathways), potential compensatory mechanisms that could delay presentation of neurodegenerative disorders, and the types of model systems that could be used to study these links in vivo.
Analysis of safe electricity consumption on load side based on attack and defence game model
Authors: Wang Xiaodong , Gong Feixiang , Chen Songsong , Zheng Bowen , Zhang Ping , Zhao Liye , Jiang Linru , Zhang Dongdong , Du Pengcheng
Published: April 2024

With the improvement of digitalization and intelligence in the power system, the safe operation of the power system is facing enormous challenges. The safe use of electricity on the load side is the key to achieving safe and reliable power system operation. The detection party needs amounts of human and material resources when the power network is attacked. In response to the current difficulties of low detection ability and high detection costs, this paper proposes an attack and defence game model that considers the differences between different nodes, ensuring the safety and economy of electricity consumption while reducing energy waste. At first, the structure of smart meters and the attack characteristics of intruders are summarized, and a basic attack and defence game model is constructed. The Nash equilibrium is then solved, and the optimal strategy for the game between the defender and the intruder is given to balance the relation between detection performance and energy consumption. In response to the differences generated by each node, strategies for attackers to launch attacks on different nodes and the setting of optimal thresholds for other nodes in the defence system are explored. Finally, case studies verify that the proposed model could reduce the cost of intruder detection while ensuring a specific detection rate.
The first high-redshift cavity power measurements of cool-core galaxy clusters with the International LOFAR Telescope
Authors: Timmerman R. , van Weeren R. J. , Botteon A. , Röttgering H. J. A. , Morabito L. K. , Sweijen F.
Published: April 2024

Radio-mode feedback associated with the active galactic nuclei (AGNs) at the cores of galaxy clusters injects a large amount of energy into the intracluster medium (ICM), offsetting radiative losses through X-ray emission. This mechanism prevents the ICM from rapidly cooling down and fueling extreme starburst activity as it accretes onto the central galaxies, and it is therefore a key ingredient in the evolution of galaxy clusters. However, the influence and mode of feedback at high redshifts (z ∼ 1) remains largely unknown. Low-frequency sub-arcsecond-resolution radio observations taken with the International LOFAR Telescope have demonstrated their ability to assist X-ray observations with constraining the energy output from the AGNs (or “cavity power”) in galaxy clusters, thereby enabling research at higher redshifts than before. In this pilot project, we tested this hybrid method on a high-redshift (0.6 < z < 1.3) sample of 13 galaxy clusters for the first time with the aim of verifying the performance of this method at these redshifts and providing the first estimates of the cavity power associated with the central AGN for a sample of distant clusters. We were able to detect clear radio lobes in three out of 13 galaxy clusters at redshifts of 0.7 < z < 0.9, and we used these detections in combination with ICM pressures surrounding the radio lobes obtained from standard profiles to calculate the corresponding cavity powers of the AGNs. Combining our results with the literature, the current data appear to suggest that the average cavity power peaked at a redshift of z ∼ 0.4 and slowly decreases toward higher redshifts. However, we require more and tighter constraints on the cavity volume and a better understanding of our observational systematics to confirm any deviation of the cavity power trend from a constant level.
Impacts of nonthermal emission on the images of a black hole shadow and extended jets in two-temperature GRMHD simulations
Authors: Zhang Mingyuan , Mizuno Yosuke , Fromm Christian M. , Younsi Ziri , Cruz-Osorio Alejandro
Published: April 2024

Context. The recent 230 GHz observations from the Event Horizon Telescope (EHT) collaboration are able to image the innermost structure of the M87 galaxy showing the shadow of the black hole, a photon ring, and a ring-like structure that agrees with thermal synchrotron emission from the accretion disc. However, at lower frequencies, M87 is characterized by a large-scale jet with clear signatures of nonthermal emission. It is necessary to explore the impacts of nonthermal emission on black hole shadow images and extended jets, especially at lower frequencies.

Aims. In this study, we aim to compare models with different electron heating prescriptions to one another and to investigate how these prescriptions and nonthermal electron distributions may affect black hole shadow images and the broadband spectrum energy distribution (SED) function.

Methods. We performed general relativistic radiative transfer (GRRT) calculations in various two-temperature general relativistic magnetohydrodynamic (GRMHD) models utilizing different black hole spins and different electron heating prescriptions coupled with different electron distribution functions (eDFs).

Results. Through a comparison with GRRT images and SEDs, we found that when considering a variable κ eDF, the parameterized prescription of the R − β electron temperature model with Rh = 1 is similar to the model with electron heating in the morphology of images, and the SEDs at a high frequency. This is consistent with previous studies using the thermal eDF. However, the nuance between them could be differentiated through the diffuse extended structure seen in GRRT images, especially at a lower frequency, and the behavior of SEDs at low frequency. The emission from the nearside jet region is enhanced in the case of electron heating provided by magnetic reconnection and it will increase if the contribution from the regions with stronger magnetization is included or if the magnetic energy contribution to κ eDF mainly in the magnetized regions is considered. Compared with the thermal eDF, the peaks of the SEDs shift to a lower frequency when we consider nonthermal eDF.
Supernova remnants of red supergiants: From barrels to loops
Authors: Meyer D. M.-A. , Velázquez P. F. , Pohl M. , Egberts K. , Petrov M. , Villagran M. A. , Torres D. F. , Batzofin R.
Published: April 2024

Core-collapse (CC) supernova remnants (SNRs) are the nebular leftovers of defunct massive stars that died during a supernova explosion, mostly while undergoing the red supergiant phase of their evolution. The morphology and emission properties of those remnants are a function of the distribution of circumstellar material at the moment of the supernova, as well as the intrinsic properties of the explosion and those of the ambient medium. By means of 2.5-dimensional (2.5D) numerical magneto-hydrodynamic (MHD) simulations, we modelled the long-term evolution of SNRs generated by runaway rotating massive stars moving into a magnetised interstellar medium (ISM). Radiative transfer calculations reveal that the projected non-thermal emission of SNRs decreases over time, namely: older remnants are fainter than younger ones. Older (80 kyr) SNRs whose progenitors were moving with a space velocity corresponding to a Mach number of M = 1 (v⋆ = 20 km s−1) in the Galactic plane of the interstellar medium (nISM = 1 cm−3) are brighter in synchrotron than when moving with a Mach number of M = 2 (v⋆ = 40 km s−1). We show that runaway red supergiant progenitors first induce an asymmetric non-thermal 1.4 GHz barrel-like synchrotron SNRs (at the age of about 8 kyr), before further evolving to adopt a Cygnus-loop-like shape (at about 80 kyr). It is conjectured that a significative fraction of SNRs are currently in this bilateral-to-Cygnus loop evolutionary sequence. Therefore, this population should be taken into account with repect to interpreting the data as part of the forthcoming Cherenkov Telescope Array (CTA) observatory.
Horizontally and vertically polarized kink oscillations in curved solar coronal loops
Authors: Guo Mingzhe , Van Doorsselaere Tom , Li Bo , Goossens Marcel
Published: April 2024

Aims. Kink oscillations are frequently observed in coronal loops. This work aims to numerically clarify the influence of the loop curvature on horizontally and vertically polarized kink oscillations.

Methods. Working within the framework of ideal magnetohydrodynamics (MHD), we conduct three-dimensional (3D) simulations of axial fundamental kink oscillations in curved density-enhanced loops embedded in a potential magnetic field. Both horizontal and vertical polarizations are examined, and their oscillation frequencies are compared with Wentzel-Kramers-Brillouin (WKB) expectations. We discriminate between two different density specifications. In the first (dubbed “uniform density”), the density is axially uniform and varies continuously in the transverse direction toward a uniform ambient corona. Some further stratification is implemented in the second specification (dubbed “stratified”), allowing us to address the effect of evanescent barriers.

Results. Examining the oscillating profiles of the initially perturbed uniform-density loops, we found that the frequencies for both polarizations deviate from the WKB expectation by ∼10%. In the stratified loop, however, the frequency of the horizontal polarization deviates to a larger extent (∼25%). We illustrate the lateral leakage of kink modes through wave tunneling in 3D simulations, for the first time. Despite this, in the uniform density and the stratified loops, the damping time-to-period ratios are similar and are close to the analytical predictions for straight configurations under the thin-tube-thin-boundary (TTTB) assumption.

Conclusions. The WKB expectation for straight configurations can reasonably describe the eigenfrequency of kink oscillations only in loops without an asymmetrical cross-loop density profile perpendicular to the oscillating direction. Lateral leakage via wave tunneling is found to be less efficient than resonant absorption, meaning that the latter remains a robust damping mechanism for kink motions even when loop curvature is included.
Phase Field Model for Multi-Material Shape Optimization of Inextensible Rods
Authors: Dondl Patrick , Maione Alberto , Wolff-Vorbeck Steve
Published: April 2024

We derive a model for the optimization of the bending and torsional rigidities of nonhomogeneous elastic rods. This is achieved by studying a sharp interface shape optimization problem with perimeter penalization, that treats both rigidities as objectives. We then formulate a phase field approximation of the optimization problem and show the convergence to the aforementioned sharp interface model via Γ-convergence. In the final part of this work we numerically approximate minimizers of the phase field problem by using a steepest descent approach and relate the resulting optimal shapes to the development of the morphology of plant stems.
Distribution of Normative Percentiles of Liver Stiffness Measurement Using Ultrasound Shear Wave Elastography in an Adult Asian Indian Population
Authors: Choorakuttil Rijo M. , Chaubal Rajas N. , Pratap Thara , Chelladurai Amarnath , Nirmalan Praveen K.
Published: April 2024

Objective The aim of this study was to determine the normative percentiles for liver stiffness measurement (LSM) using shear wave elastography in an adult Asian Indian population as part of the preventive radiology initiative of the Indian Radiological and Imaging Association (IRIA).

Methods LSMs were ascertained by two-dimensional (2D) shear wave elastography using the Mindray Resona series of ultrasound machines. The image quality was assessed using the motion stability index (M-STB) and reliability (RLB) map. Ten acquisitions were documented, and an interquartile range-to-median (IQR/M) ratio ≤30% kilopascal (kPa) units was considered a good-quality measurement. A subgroup of the study population without comorbidities was chosen to derive the normative percentile distribution of LSM using a generalized least squares multivariable fractional polynomial regression model that adjusted for sex and body mass index (BMI). The effectiveness of the estimated percentiles was assessed on the entire study population using the greater than 90th percentile value of the LSM as the cutoff for abnormality.

Results The study included 852 people who underwent shear wave elastography from June 2022 to July 2023. The magnitude of compensated advanced chronic liver disease (cACLD) and clinically significant portal hypertension (CSPH) was 6.81% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 5.30–8.7) and 4.91% (95% CI: 3.67–6.60), respectively. The normative percentiles were estimated from 282 persons without associated comorbidity and risk factors. The mean age (standard deviation [SD]) of the normal individuals was 40.90 ± 12.92 years, and 210 (71.47%) were males. The mean age (SD) of the 570 persons excluded from the normative percentiles analysis was 47.94 (12.49) years and 72.11% were males. The sex- and BMI-adjusted age-specific 90th percentiles of LSM were 8.76, 8.78, 8.96, 8.97, 9.25, and 9.45 kPa for 18 to 20, 21 to 30, 31 to 40, 41 to 50, 51 to 60, and 61 to 70 years, respectively.

Conclusion The sex- and BMI-adjusted age-specific 90th percentiles for LSM using shear wave elastography in Asian Indian adults are almost similar to the greater than 9 kPa cutoff proposed by the Society of Radiologists in Ultrasound Liver Elastography Consensus Statement guidelines to discriminate cACLD and CSPH from normal individuals.
Entrapment of Embolic Protection Device within Peripheral Stent: Troubleshooting When Novelty Fails
Authors: Arunachalam Venkat , Valakkada Jineesh , Ayyappan Anoop , Kannath Santhosh
Published: April 2024

The use of embolic protection devices (EPD) in peripheral vascular procedures with higher risk of distal embolic shower has gained wider acceptance with evidence mounting in favor of its use. We report our unique experience on the circumstances leading to and management of entrapment of an EPD within peripheral stent during management of a patient with critical limb ischemia.
USG-Guided Percutaneous Thread Carpal Tunnel Release
Authors: Kumar Nishith , Saifi Alfa Shamim , Singh Upinderjeet , Singh Dharmendra Kumar
Published: April 2024

Ultrasonography (USG) is utilized for the diagnostic and interventional management of patients with carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). The management of patients with severe and/or refractory CTS includes the surgical (open/endoscopic) release of transverse carpal ligament. With the advancements in the resolution of USG, the release of transverse carpal ligament can be done safely with the help of transecting/cutting devices. We discuss the technical report on the principle of percutaneous thread carpal tunnel release with the help of surgical grade thread.
Bowel Resection Margins in Crohn's Disease: Do They Matter?
Authors: Choi Beatrix , Cohen David , Schwartzberg David M.
Published: April 2024

Many patients with Crohn's disease (CD) will ultimately require surgical intervention for refractory disease despite recognizing that surgery does not cure CD. The initial operation, primarily for ileocolic disease, is focused on resecting the offending pathology and ideally providing a reduced likelihood for subsequent operations and additional bowel loss through surgical techniques. The appropriate margin, macro- vs. microscopic, lays in balance to provide an adequate resection that minimizes bowel loss, compared to an extensive resection which ensures a thorough resection but inherently includes the loss of normal bowel in attempts to reduce recurrent symptomatic disease. Ensuring the appropriately timed operation, performed in optimal conditions, with apt mesenteric resections and an ideal anastomotic configuration are all only part of the equation, as bowel margins play an important role in limiting surgical recurrence and maintaining bowel length. A grossly normal margin assessed by the lack of serositis and the mesenteric “pinch test” can result in an appropriate margin without sacrificing normal bowel in this group of patients who are at risk of further bowel loss from CD recurrence.
Preoperative Optimization of Crohn's Patients before Abdominopelvic Surgery
Authors: Moussally Moustafa , Paski Shirley C. , Cohen Benjamin , Holubar Stefan D.
Published: April 2024

In this article, we review and identify modifiable risk factors associated with postoperative complications of Crohn's disease. We highlight the importance of factors such as nutrition, corticosteroids, immunomodulators, abscesses, ideal timing of surgery, and biologic and small-molecule therapy on surgical outcomes. Herein, we discuss the strategies for attenuating these risk factors. Special consideration is given to venous thromboembolism prophylaxis in this patient population.
Some aspects of the resistive-to-normal state transition caused by direct and microwave currents in superconducting thin films with phase slip lines
Authors: Turutanov O. G. , Sivakov A. G. , Leha A. A. , Pokhila A. S. , Kolinko A. E. , Grajcar M.
Published: April 2024

Based on analysis of current-voltage characteristics and imaging of the resistive state of thin-film tin strips using low-temperature laser scanning microscopy (LTLSM), the process of destruction of superconductivity by current and microwave irradiation with the formation and spatial rearrangement of the order parameter phase slip lines, and their transformation into discrete localized normal domains are shown. The prospects of LTLSM are considered from the point of view of the study of the high-frequency properties of superconducting structures and spatial characteristics in the pre-critical state for instrumental applications.