bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structure‐function integrated design of electromagnetic interference shielding and mechanical properties of 2D carbon fiber reinforced polymer composites based on absorption loss regulation
Authors: Chen ZeChao , Wang Xu , An Tong , Zhang FangZhou , Peng YuQing , Li AiJun , Liu LiQi
Published: October 2024

Carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) composites integrating structure and electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding are gaining interest. This paper uses silane coupling agent KH570 modified Nano‐ZnO to enhance the EMI shielding of 2D carbon fiber cloths (CFC). Boron‐phenolic resin (BPF) was modified by KH570 modified carbonyl iron powder (CIP). The ZnO2@CF/CIP2@BPF composite, modified with 0.4 wt% Nano‐ZnO and 10 wt% CIP, achieves an average EMI SE of 52.72 dB and low transmittance in the X‐band, while significantly improving mechanical properties (Interlayer shear strength by 74.11%, flexural strength by 80.32%, and flexural modulus by 61.07%) compared to the original CF/BPF composite. The composite's electromagnetic shielding properties and mechanical properties make it potentially valuable in military and civilian applications.

Highlights

Enhanced EMI shielding with Nano‐ZnO coated carbon fibers.

Modified boron phenolic resin matrix for improved absorption.

Composites exhibits superior EMI shielding and mechanical properties.

Synergistic surface and matrix modification boosts composite overall performance.

Carbon fiber composite achieves 52.72 dB EMI shielding efficacy.
Hydrochlorothiazide Use and Risk of Skin Cancer: A Population‐Based Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Yang Avery Shuei‐He , Djebarri Leila , Lee Chaw Ning , Granados Denis , Moneim Mohamed Abdel , Shao Shih‐Chieh , Lin Swu‐Jane , Liao Tzu‐Chi , Lin Hung‐Wei , Lai Edward Chia‐Cheng
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) exposure has been linked to increased skin cancer in Caucasian (white) populations, especially squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), but not basal cell carcinoma (BCC). This study aimed to evaluate and compare skin cancer risks associated with HCTZ‐ and other antihypertensives use.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study utilized Taiwan's National Health Insurance Research Database. We identified patients aged 20 years and older, newly receiving antihypertensive medications between 2004 and 2015. We calculated the medication possession ratio (MPR) for the first 2 years of treatment to determine patient eligibility and treatment classification, whereby only patients with MPR above 80% were included. These were subsequently categorized by the type of antihypertensives they received, namely HCTZ, other thiazide diuretics, non‐thiazide diuretics or non‐diuretic antihypertensives. Cox proportional hazards model was used to evaluate skin cancer risks, and these were then classified as SCC or BCC.

Results

Our study included 41 086, 27 402, 19 613, and 856 782 patients receiving HCTZ, other thiazide diuretics, non‐thiazide diuretics, and non‐diuretic antihypertensives, respectively. We found BCC risks were similar when comparing HCTZ with other thiazides (adjusted hazard ratio: 0.84; 95% CI: 0.54–1.33), non‐thiazide diuretics (0.93; 0.51–1.67), and non‐diuretic antihypertensives (0.91; 0.66–1.26). We observed a higher SCC risk in the HCTZ group, compared to other thiazides (1.24; 0.74–2.08), non‐thiazide diuretics (1.32; 0.70–2.51), and non‐diuretic antihypertensives (1.23; 0.87–1.73), although the confidence intervals (CIs) were wide and crossed the null.

Conclusions

We concluded that skin cancer need not be of major concern to physicians when prescribing antihypertensives for an Asian population.
Mimicking large spot‐scanning radiation fields for proton FLASH preclinical studies with a robotic motion platform
Authors: Guan Fada , Jiang Dadi , Wang Xiaochun , Yang Ming , Iga Kiminori , Li Yuting , Bronk Lawrence , Bronk Julianna , Wang Liang , Guo Youming , Sahoo Narayan , Grosshans David R. , Koong Albert C. , Zhu Xiaorong R. , Mohan Radhe
Published: October 2024

Previously, a synchrotron‐based horizontal proton beamline (87.2 MeV) was successfully commissioned to deliver radiation doses in FLASH and conventional dose rate modes to small fields and volumes. In this study, we developed a strategy to increase the effective radiation field size using a custom robotic motion platform to automatically shift the positions of biological samples. The beam was first broadened with a thin tungsten scatterer and shaped by customized brass collimators for irradiating cell/organoid cultures in 96‐well plates (a 7‐mm‐diameter circle) or for irradiating mice (1‐cm2 square). Motion patterns of the robotic platform were written in G‐code, with 9‐mm spot spacing used for the 96‐well plates and 10.6‐mm spacing for the mice. The accuracy of target positioning was verified with a self‐leveling laser system. The dose delivered in the experimental conditions was validated with EBT‐XD film attached to the 96‐well plate or the back of the mouse. Our film‐measured dose profiles matched Monte Carlo calculations well (1D gamma pass rate >95% with the criteria of 2%/1 mm/2% dose threshold). The FLASH dose rates were 113.7 Gy/s for cell/organoid irradiation and 191.3 Gy/s for mouse irradiation. These promising results indicate that this robotic platform can be used to effectively increase the field size for preclinical experiments with proton FLASH.
Protein hydrolysates from quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) modulate macrophage polarization and the expression of surface antigen molecules
Authors: Tocmo Restituto , Balagiannis Dimitris , Quinn Emily , Finnegan Dearbhla , Collins Michelle , Loscher Christine E.
Published: October 2024

Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) is considered an exceptional source of high‐quality protein and may be a good precursor of bioactive components with immunomodulatory effects. Quinoa protein‐enriched fraction (QPF) was isolated from quinoa seeds via alkaline extraction and isoelectric point precipitation and hydrolyzed at the optimum temperature and pH of two food‐grade proteases to produce QPF hydrolysates (QPFH). SDS‐PAGE and LC–MS analyses showed that low‐molecular weight peptides were present in hydrolyzed proteins and that the enzymes effectively hydrolyzed high‐molecular weight proteins evidenced by significantly higher amino acid levels in QPFH. J774A.1 macrophages and mouse bone‐marrow‐derived macrophages (BMDMs) were polarized into an M1‐like (pro‐inflammatory) or M2‐like (anti‐inflammatory) state in the absence or presence of QPF or QPFH. Our results showed that QPFH attenuated M1‐like response as demonstrated by a significantly lowered secretion of pro‐inflammatory cytokines (IL‐6, TNF‐α, IL‐12p40, and IL‐27p28) and nitric oxide (NO) levels. Co‐treatment with QPFH significantly boosted IL‐10 and arginase activity in both M1‐like and M2‐like cells indicating that the samples may promote a phenotypic switch to M2‐like macrophages. Furthermore, QPFH inhibited pro‐inflammatory cytokines in Loxoribine (LOX)‐activated bone marrow‐derived dendritic cells (BMDCs) and inhibited the same cytokines during a 7‐day DC maturation experiment. QPF but not the QPFH influenced the expression of surface antigen molecules in macrophages by decreasing the frequency of MHCI and CD86 expressing cells. Taken together, these findings reveal novel mechanisms that demonstrate the potential of quinoa protein hydrolysates in the development of immunomodulatory functional foods.
Unveiling Heterogeneous Catalytic Potential of Distinctly Coordinated Polymers Toward Henry and Morita‐Baylis‐Hillman Reactions
Authors: Joshi Sandeep , Singh Durgesh , Rom Tanmay , Kumar Paul Avijit , Pandey Rampal
Published: October 2024

Three 1D coordination polymers (CPs), {[CuL2(H2O)] ⋅ (H2O)3}n (1) {[CoL2(H2O)2] ⋅ (H2O)}n (2) and {[NiL2(H2O)] ⋅ (H2O)3}n (3), (L1=N‐nicotinoylglycinato) have been synthesized by adopting a solvothermal reaction strategy and characterized through several spectral techniques i. e., elemental analyses, FT‐IR, TGA, EDX, DSC, AAS, and PXRD. X‐ray single crystal analysis revealed the 5‐, 6‐ and 7‐coordinated structures respectively for CPs 1, 2 and 3 wherein, L1 connects the metal ions in a bridging mode. The CPs entail H‐bonding, π–π stacking along with other non‐covalent interactions and expand into 3D supramolecular networks. Further, FESEM and HRTEM provided morphological insight for 1–3 and aid in obtaining interplanar spacings. CPs 1–3 possessing distinct coordination numbers and good thermal stability have been subjected to catalysis after optimization and notably, these serve as efficient, easy to work up, and reusable porous heterogeneous catalysts for Henry and Morita‐Baylis‐Hillman (MBH) reactions with reasonably good yields (97–93 %). Remarkably, catalyzed by 1–3 can be reused at least seven times for the Henry reaction and six times for the MBH reaction, retaining their catalytic efficiency. Relative catalytic efficacy toward the Henry and MBH reactions follows the order 1>2>3. Present findings are based on a rational approach of varying coordination number (5, 6 and 7) and metal ions [Cu(II), Co(II) and Ni(II)] respectively in 1–3 having structural evidence and examine their catalytic performances for typical Henry and MBH reactions.
Triple Inhibition of SARS‐CoV‐2 by Rhenium(I) Acetylacetonato Tricarbonyl Phosphine Complexes: Structural Features, DFT Calculations, HS Analysis and In Silico Molecular Docking Study
Authors: Manicum Amanda‐Lee E. , Direm Amani , Athmani Hamza , Hakkar Farida , Parlak Cemal , Visser Hendrik G. , Schutte‐Smith Marietjie , Ramasami Ponnadurai
Published: October 2024

To gain insights into the activity of metal‐based drugs against SARS‐CoV‐2, five rhenium complexes, namely fac‐[Re(CO)3(acac)(PPh2Cy)] (I), fac‐[Re(CO)3(acac)(PPhCy2)] (II), fac‐[Re(CO)3(acac)(PCy3)] (III), fac‐[Re(CO)3(acac)(P(m‐tolyl)3)] (IV), and fac‐[Re(CO)3(acac)(P(p‐tolyl)3)] (V), with acac=acetylacetonato, PPh2Cy=cyclohexyldiphenylphosphine, PPhCy2=dicyclohexylphenylphosphine, PCy3=tricyclohexylphosphine, P(m‐tolyl)3=tri(m‐tolyl)phosphine, and P(p‐tolyl)3=tri(p‐tolyl)phosphine, were docked in the binding pockets of main protease, spike glycoprotein, and RNA‐dependent RNA polymerase. The resulting binding sites revealed potent SARS‐CoV‐2 inhibition, resulting from the formation of classical N−H⋅⋅⋅O and O−H⋅⋅⋅O hydrogen bonds, carbon C−H⋅⋅⋅O H‐bonds, hydrophobic contacts, as well as non‐conventional interactions such as weak C−H⋅⋅⋅N interactions, H⋅⋅⋅H, C⋅⋅⋅H/H⋅⋅⋅C, C⋅⋅⋅lp/lp⋅⋅⋅C and lp⋅⋅⋅lp contacts, cation‐π interactions and π⋅⋅⋅π stacking in the targets’ binding pockets. Moreover, we have optimized the molecular structures of these compounds using DFT methods and correlated them correspondingly to their crystal structures. We have estimated and evaluated the associated frontier molecular orbitals, as well as the global reactivity descriptors for which we have discussed the compounds’ reactivity. We have also examined intermolecular interactions by carrying out a Hirshfeld surface (HS) analysis, which showed the presence of C−H⋅⋅⋅H−C, C−H⋅⋅⋅C interactions, C−H⋅⋅⋅O non‐classical hydrogen bonds and π⋅⋅⋅π stacking, as well as non‐conventional π⋅⋅⋅lp and lp⋅⋅⋅lp interactions.
Biocompatible 2D SnSe Nanoflake Employed Enhanced Photocatalytic Degradation of Rhodamine B
Authors: Samui Rajesh , Saha Satyajit , Mandal Amit Kumar , Bhunia Amit Kumar
Published: October 2024

In this article, we report the results of the photocatalytic effect of the cost effective grown SnSe nanoparticles (NPs), nanoflakes (NFs), nanoflowers (NFLs) on the toxic water contaminant dye of Rhodamine B (RhB) under visible light irradiation different duration time. The results showed that for the degradation of 99 %, 96 % and 94 % of the RhB have been occurred in presence of NFs, NFLs, NPs, respectively for the irradiation time of 30 min, 45 min, 65 min, respectively. Before photocatalytic test, the grown SnSe were characterised optically and structurally. The nanoparticles, nano flakes, nanoflowers morphology along with atomic composition of Sn and Se were observed from FESEM images and EDAX analysis. The direct band gap of the NPs, NFs, NFLs was calculated from UV‐VIS spectrum and found to be 1.89 eV, 1.78 eV, 1.7 eV, respectively. The crystal structure showed orthorhombic crystal phase with nanocrystal sizes varies from 22 nm to 31 nm. The Scavenger test in presence of the scavenging elements BQ, IPA, ethanol and EDTA have been discussed. The stability test showed that SnSe NFs is a good and stable catalysis for practical applications. The effect of the NFs, NPs, NFLs on red blood cell showed that all the tested SnSe nanostructures had <2 % hemolysis, suggesting their hemocompatible nature.
Biosynthesized Gold Nanocatalyst Using Ginkgo Biloba Fruit Extract for Efficient Catalytic Degradation of Azo Dyes
Authors: Liu Ying , Liu Huihong , Mahmud Sakil
Published: October 2024

Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) are increasingly utilized for their opto‐electrical properties in various high‐tech applications, including electronic conductors, sensory probes, and drug delivery systems. However, their widespread application is limited by their tendency to agglomerate. In this study, AuNPs were synthesized using a cleaner approach and stabilized with Ginkgo biloba fruit extract (GBFE), avoiding toxic agents. The synthesis parameters were optimized using a one‐variable‐at‐a‐time technique, resulting in primarily spherical/oval particles with high crystallinity (d‐spacing=0.204–0.231 nm), nano‐scale size (10.3±2.9 nm), and remarkable stability (zeta potential of −20.06 mV). The synthesis mechanism involved a redox reaction between phytochemicals and metal cations, leading to the generation and stabilization of AuNPs. The AuNPs exhibited catalytic activity in reducing two azo compounds, i. e., reactive yellow 179 (RY179) and reactive orange 5 (RO5) as the models, achieving a degradation rate of over 98 % within 15 minutes. The kinetic rate constants (k) for RY179 and RO5 were calculated as 0.2771 min−1 and 0.2297 min−1, respectively. The AuNPs alone could not degrade azo dyes since NaBH4 was required to provide a source of electrons for transferring to the dye molecules. This eco‐friendly synthesis method demonstrates the potential for synthesizing catalytically active AuNPs for various industrial applications, including wastewater treatment.
Synthesis of Thiazole‐Fused Diosgenin Derivatives as Potential Therapeutic Agents
Authors: Roy Subrata , Budhathoki Shailesh , Alam Mohammad Abrar
Published: October 2024

Diosgenin, a hydrolyzed product of phytosteroid saponin, has widely been studied for its medicinal properties. In an effort to find bioactive molecules, 25 novel thiazole‐fused diosgenin molecules have been synthesized by an efficient reaction protocol. The chemistry involves the Oppenauer oxidation followed by double bond isomerization in a one‐pot reaction, epoxidation, and the reaction of urea derivatives with the epoxyketone to synthesize the target compounds. These novel chimeric compounds were tested for their potential antimicrobial and cytotoxic properties. Antimicrobial studies against a panel of Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative led to the discovery of some of these molecules as narrow‐spectrum antimicrobial agents against Bacillus subtilis bacteria. In preliminary cytotoxicity studies, 2‐fluorophenyl derivative (10) inhibited the growth of several cell lines of the NCI‐60 cell line panels including >93 % inhibition of UO‐31 cell line. Furthermore, the hit antibacterial compounds are non‐toxic to human cancer cell lines, and the cytotoxic compound is not active against the bacterial strains, showing the selective therapeutic potential of the chimeric compounds.
Synthesis and Characterization of Hydroxyapatite Composite of Cuttlefish Bone (Sepia sp.) With Gelatin as Rhodamine b Dye Adsorbent
Authors: Jamarun Novesar , Gihwani Gian , Septiani Upita , Yadris Faradia , Refki Novesar M. , Rahmadani Putri Dhea
Published: October 2024

In this study, hydroxyapatite‐gelatin (HAp‐Gel) composite using Ca precursor from cuttlefish bone (Sepia Sp.) has great potential to be used in hydroxyapatite synthesis. The HAp‐Gel composite was synthesized in‐situ by sol‐gel method with varying concentrations to see its ability to adsorb rhodamine b dye. XRF analysis results obtained a CaO content of 95.561 %. The 40 % HAp‐Gel composite showed the best adsorption capacity, with a percentage of 27.326 %, which experienced an increase in the percentage of hydroxyapatite adsorption capacity, namely 4.6881 %. FTIR results from 40 % HAp‐Gel composite obtained characteristic peaks of functional groups contained in hydroxyapatite and gelatin. XRD analysis showed the diffraction pattern of HAp by the ICSD standard spectrum (#157481), and the average size of the hydroxyapatite crystal was 9.72 nm. In comparison, the 40 % HAp‐Gel composite crystal was 5.25 nm. SEM‐EDS results showed that the composite morphology was agglomerated with irregular shapes and a Ca/P ratio 1.56. SAA results showed a composite surface area of 55.256 m2/g. The 40 % HAp‐Gel composite sorption application followed the Freudlich isotherm model with multilayer adsorption on the heterogeneous adsorbent surface. The interaction between rhodamine B and HAp‐Gel 40 % occurs at pseudo‐second‐order and can be reused up to two cycles when interacting with rhodamine B.
Efficacy of Radical‐Scavenging Activity in Novel Diorganotin(IV) Complexes of Schiff Bases of Salicylaldehyde
Authors: Sharma Shobhita , Sharma Shobhana , Meena Shiv Om , Vashishtha Manish
Published: October 2024

Biopotent hybrid diorganotin(IV) complexes, derived from salicylaldehyde Schiff bases having general formula R2SnL, where LH = (OH)C6H4HC: NCR′(R″)CHR‴OH] [where R = Me or Bu], were logically designed, generated, and characterized using spectroscopic techniques, single‐crystal X‐ray investigations, and DFT studies. Different diorganotin(IV) complexes were synthesized because of interaction between diorganotin(IV) dichloride and sodium salts of Schiff bases of salicylaldehyde ligand in anhydrous refluxing THF at 1:1 and 1:2 molar ratio (Product A and B). The chelating property of Schiff bases replaces organo group from diorganotin(IV) dichloride. It creates an O2SnL type of complex when diorganotin(IV) dichloride and ligand interact in 1:2 ratio, which is this study's most fascinating aspect. The characterization of these complexes is aided by physicochemical and spectroscopic investigations, including IR and NMR (1H, 13C, and 119Sn). Single‐crystal X‐ray investigations, mass spectrum studies, and DFT investigations suggest the dimeric structure of these compounds. These diorganotin(IV) complexes have a dimeric structure containing hexacoordinated central tin atom. Two µ2─O atoms bridge the gap between two Sn(IV) atoms in the dimeric dimethyltin(IV) complexes. The DPPH assay results for radical scavenging activity and IC50 values demonstrate the antioxidative potential of diorganotin(IV).
Aluminum‐Doped Indium Oxide Electron Transport Layer Grown by Atomic Layer Deposition: Highly Efficient and Damage‐Resistant Interconnection Solution for All‐Perovskite Tandem Solar Cells with 25.46% Efficiency
Authors: Youn Pil Ju , Woo Mun Young , Won Jong Hyeon , Im Jeong Min , Lee Jun Hyuk , Noh Jun Hong , Han Jeong Hwan
Published: October 2024

In fabricating high‐efficiency all‐perovskite tandem solar cells (APTSCs) with a p‐i‐n configuration, the electron transport layer (ETL) plays a critical role in facilitating the transport of photogenerated electrons from the front cell to the recombination layer and protecting the front cell from damage during rear cell fabrication. This study introduces aluminum‐doped In2O3 (AIO) films grown by atomic layer deposition (ALD) as a promising ETL for high‐efficiency APTSCs. ALD‐grown AIO films with an optimized Al concentration exhibit superior charge transport characteristics, excellent transparency, and damage‐resistant barrier properties against solution infiltration compared with conventional SnO2 ETLs and undoped ALD In2O3. Using an ALD SnO2/3 at.% AIO bilayer as the electron transport layer, an efficiency of 18.33% is achieved from single‐junction wide bandgap perovskite solar cells. Furthermore, the use of ALD SnO2/3 at.% AIO ETL enables the reliable fabrication of APTSCs with negligible solution damage to the front cell and minimized power loss. Consequently, APTSC employing the ALD AIO‐based ETL exhibit an excellent photoconversion efficiency of 25.46%, outperforming APTSCs with the ALD SnO2 ETL.
Chirality Engineering of Nanostructured Copper Oxide for Enhancing Oxygen Evolution from Water Electrolysis
Authors: Li Ying , Qiu Liang , Tian Rui , Liu Zhongli , Yao Lin , Huang Lufei , Li Wei , Wang Yuyin , Wang Tao , Zhou Baowen
Published: October 2024

The exploration of a new conceptual strategy for improving the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) of earth‐abundant electrocatalysts is critical. In this study, chiral copper oxide nanoflower is explored by a self‐assembly method. The characterization suggests the chiral structure originates from the crystal plane‐level helical stack of the secondary nanosheets. Of note, the assembly illustrates a record‐high degree of spin polarization of 96%, indicating the ideal alignment of electron spin. Moreover, density function theory calculations show the chiral structure reducing the reaction energy barrier (REB) while switching the potential‐determining step from *O→*OOH to *OH→*O. Together with the enhanced electrochemical active surface area and accelerated charge transfer, the production of ground‐state triplet O2 is improved via a spin‐forbidden route that involves the singlet H2O/OH•. Consequently, the chiral nanoflower shows a overpotential of 308 mV at 10 mA cm−2 and a Tafel slope of 93.5 mV dec−1, which is even superior to the commercial RuO2 (310 mV, 101 mV dec−1). This study presents a new strategy for improving the OER activity by simultaneously enhancing electronic properties and lowering the REB of an non‐noble electrocatalyst via chirality engineering.
Impact of age-related hearing loss on decompensation of left DLPFC during speech perception in noise: a combined EEG-fNIRS study
Authors: Wang Songjian , Liu Yi , Kou Nuonan , Chen Younuo , Liu Tong , Wang Yuan , Wang Shuo
Published: October 2024

Understanding speech-in-noise is a significant challenge for individuals with age-related hearing loss (ARHL). Evidence suggests that increased activity in the frontal cortex compensates for impaired speech perception in healthy aging older adults. However, whether older adults with ARHL still show preserved compensatory function and the specific neural regulatory mechanisms underlying such compensation remains largely unclear. Here, by utilizing a synchronized EEG-fNIRS test, we investigated the neural oscillatory characteristics of the theta band and synchronous hemodynamic changes in the frontal cortex during a speech recognition task in noise. The study included healthy older adults (n = 26, aged 65.4 ± 2.8), those with mild hearing loss (n = 26, aged 66.3 ± 3.8), and those with moderate to severe hearing loss (n = 26, aged 67.5 ± 3.7). Results showed that, relative to healthy older adults, older adults with ARHL exhibited lower activation and weakened theta band neural oscillations in the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) under noisy conditions, and this decreased activity correlated with high-frequency hearing loss. Meanwhile, we found that the connectivity of the frontoparietal network was significantly reduced, which might depress the top-down articulatory prediction function affecting speech recognition performance in ARHL older adults. The results suggested that healthy aging older adults might exhibit compensatory attentional resource recruitment through a top-down auditory-motor integration mechanism. In comparison, older adults with ARHL reflected decompensation of the left DLPFC involving the frontoparietal integration network during speech recognition tasks in noise.
Impact of co-presence of malnutrition-inflammation-atherosclerosis factors on prognosis in lower extremity artery disease patients after endovascular therapy
Authors: Ohmure Kenta , Kanda Daisuke , Ikeda Yoshiyuki , Tokushige Akihiro , Sonoda Takeshi , Arikawa Ryo , Anzaki Kazuhiro , Ohishi Mitsuru
Published: October 2024

Malnutrition and inflammation are common problems of adverse outcomes in various diseases as atherosclerosis. Recently, the concept of malnutrition-inflammation-atherosclerosis (MIA) syndrome is known to a crucial prognostic factor in patients with end-stage renal disease. We investigated the prognostic impact of the co-presence of MIA factors in patients with lower-extremity artery disease (LEAD) after endovascular therapy (EVT). This retrospective study included 284 patients with LEAD who underwent EVT. MIA factors were defined in patients with: low geriatric nutritional risk index (< 92) as “malnourished”; greater high-sensitivity C-reactive protein levels (≥ 0.1 mg/dL) as “inflamed”; a history of coronary artery revascularization, lacunar or atherothrombotic brain infarction as “atherosclerotic”. We examined the relationship between baseline characteristics and major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (MACCE) including all-cause mortality. Sixty-two patients (22%) died and 72 patients (25%) had MACCE, including all-cause death. Forty-four (16%) patients had every 3 of MIA (3-MIA) factors. The mean follow-up period was 737 days. Multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression analysis models revealed that 3-MIA factors correlated significantly with all-cause death [hazard ratio (HR) 3.46, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.89–6.34; p < 0.001] and MACCE (HR 2.91, 95% CI 1.62–5.22; p < 0.001), after adjusting for relevant factors. Kaplan–Meier analysis revealed that the rates of all-cause death (p < 0.001) and MACCE (p < 0.001) were significantly higher when the MIA factors overlapped and are observed in patients with chronic limb-threatening ischemia. Among patients with LEAD after EVT, the co-presence of MIA factors was an independent risk factor for all-cause death and MACCE.

Graphical abstract
Tectonic activation and the risk of Ilisu Dam collapse to Iraq through modelling and simulation using HEC-RAS
Authors: Al-Gurairy Ahmad , Al-Jubory Mohamed S. , Al-Ansari Nadhir , Muhammad Awadh Salih , Al-Zubaidi Ali H. , Al-Sadun Muhammad T. , Al-Ghurairy Riyadh M.
Published: October 2024

Floods caused by dam failures can cause huge losses of life and property, especially in estuarine areas and valleys. In spite of all the capabilities and great improvements reached by man in the construction of dams and their structures, they will remain helpless before the powerful forces of nature, especially those related to tectonic activation, and the occurrence of earthquakes of different intensities.

The region extending from the Ilisu Dam in Turkey to the Mosul Dam in Iraq was chosen as an area for this study, and the HEC-RAS application was used to simulate the collapse of the Ilisu Dam due to a major earthquake, to know the magnitude of the risks and losses that could result from this. The Ilisu Dam was built very close to a highly tectonically active fault system, particularly the East Anatolian Fault (EAF), which is one of the largest tectonically active faults in the world with a length of 500 km. This region has witnessed past and present earthquakes of high magnitude (M > 7), especially in the EAF, so the construction of the Ilisu Dam near the EAF fault system is of great concern, as it was built in a basin with very complex seismic activity and geology.

Using the HEC-RAS simulation application, the study found that the flood resulting from the collapse of the Ilisu Dam would reach the edges of the Mosul Dam Lake in just 13 h. With a flow of more than 100,000 m3/s, more than 10 billion m3 of water will flow into the Mosul Dam Lake within four days of the disaster. This will lead to the collapse of the Mosul Dam and direct the flood wave of the collapse of these dams towards Baghdad through Mosul, Tikrit, and Samarra. This could pose risks to all Iraqi cities located within the Iraqi sedimentary plain (Mesopotamia), from south of the Mosul Dam up to Basra, in a scenario similar to Noah’s Flood.
Investigating Potential Interactive Effects Between Limbal Rings and Facial Attractiveness
Authors: Howard Matt C. , Brown Mitch
Published: October 2024

Limbal rings are dark bands in the eyes that circle the iris. Previous research suggests that the presence of limbal rings augments perceptions of male faces as healthy and attractive, particularly among female perceivers. Nonetheless, a degree of heterogeneity exists in attractiveness effects across different stimulus sets. One possibility of this discrepancy could be previously undetected differences in attractiveness across different social targets that impede a clearer understanding for the signal value of limbal rings. Namely, it could be possible that the attractiveness advantage of faces with limbal rings is most apparent among highly attractive stimuli. This study sought to reconcile this discrepancy by developing a novel stimulus set that systematically varies the attractiveness of social targets in addition to the presence of limbal rings in male faces. Women evaluated these targets based on perceptions of their health and attractiveness. Although limbal rings continued to augment perceptions of health in male faces, no differences emerged in the attractiveness of faces with and without limbal rings.
Evaluating the Growth Response of Ricinus communis L. Cultivars to Salt Stress Using a Fast and Reliable Bioassay
Authors: Carrino Linda , Visconti Donato , Todisco Daniele , Fiorentino Nunzio , Meers Erik , Fagnano Massimo
Published: October 2024

Here is proposed an easy, fast, and economic technique to investigate plant physiological traits in response to salt stress by using castor bean (Ricinus communis L.). Four Ricinus communis L. cultivars (TUNI 1, TUNI 4, C1012, and C1028) were grown in a growth chamber for 15 days on a sand substrate and were watered regularly with deionised water or NaCl solution (water electrical conductivity (EC) 4, or 8 dS m− 1) to keep soil moisture close to field capacity. According to roots, stem, and germination traits and derived indices, TUNI 1 and TUN4 showed the best growth performance on sand irrigated with 4 dS m− 1 and 8 dS m− 1, respectively. Besides, comparing C1028 and C1012, the former showed a higher tolerance at the maximum electrical conductivity tested related to the latter, increasing salt tolerance index (STI) of roots (+ 25%) and stem (+ 20%). In conclusion, the present findings suggest that the TUNI 4 cultivar of Ricinus communis L. demonstrates superior overall performance, even under highly saline conditions, such as irrigation with 8 dS m− 1. Conversely, the TUNI 1 cultivar shows a good ability to perform in marginal soils with moderate salinity levels, such as those irrigated with 4 dS m− 1. Our results represent the first step towards optimization of a cost-effective method/bioassay for the selection of salt tolerant Ricinus communis L. cultivars and genotypes.
Introducing the ethical-epistemic matrix: a principle-based tool for evaluating artificial intelligence in medicine
Authors: Adams Jonathan
Published: October 2024

While there has been much discussion of the ethical assessment of artificial intelligence (AI) in medicine, such work has rarely been combined with the parallel body of scholarship analyzing epistemic implications of AI. This paper proposes a method for joint evaluation of AI’s ethical and epistemic implications in medicine that draws on the principle-oriented tradition in bioethics and the consequent ‘ethical matrix’ approach to assessing novel technologies. It first introduces principle-based approaches as specific tools for ethical assessment of AI in medicine and other domains that are contrasted with the lack of comparable epistemic principles that would govern AI evaluation in medicine. In the next section, the ethical matrix is explained as a well-established principle-based tool in applied ethics that has had some limited applications to near-term implications of AI in medicine and elsewhere that can be strengthened, I suggest, using epistemic principles. To this end, the following section looks to the philosophy of science for relevant epistemic principles, identifying ‘accuracy’, ‘consistency’, ‘relevance’, and ‘instrumental efficacy’ as a provisional set for technology evaluation. The next section articulates the relevance of these epistemic principles to AI in medicine by highlighting conventional standards that have already been applied in AI, epistemology, and the medical sciences. Before concluding, the paper then defines and defends the possibility of an ‘ethical-epistemic matrix’ for the application of these epistemic principles alongside established ethical principles to a selection of stakeholder groups: patients, clinicians, developers, and the public.
Peer-led teaching with adjunctive virtual reality leads to increased confidence and engagement in surgical education amongst medical students
Authors: Panzures Alexis , Kam Man Hei Marcus , Wu Chin-Jui Ray , Sivakumar Akkhash , Vishvanathan V. Jaya Verman , Tang Isaac Jing Wen , Farid Aqif Farhan Azmil , Oon Guo Rong
Published: October 2024

Purpose

The aims of this study are to (1) evaluate the efficacy of peer-led teaching in post-surgical complications; (2) evaluate the role of virtual reality (VR) in peer-led teaching; and (3) assess the impact of performance-affecting factors (core knowledge coverage, quality of teaching, confidence in peer tutors, and engagement) in peer-led teaching with VR.

Methods

30 medical students in clinical years of a 6-year Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB) program participated in a peer-led tutorial and VR scenario on common post-surgical complications. Each tutorial consisted of two tutors and up to eight participants. Participants then answered a 13-item questionnaire using 5-point Likert scales.

Results

28 (93%) participants showed marked improvement or remained at the previous ≥ 4 Likert rating for self-perceived experience and expertise after peer-led teaching (p < 0.05); and 30 (100%) after the VR scenario (p < 0.05). Increased confidence in peer tutors, quality of teaching and engagement correlated with improved confidence in VR and real-life post-surgical complications (p < 0.05). 24 (80%) participants felt performance pressure was diminished with VR simulation.

Conclusions

The use of peer-led teaching with VR scenarios increases medical student engagement in learning and confidence in dealing with post-surgical complications. Further long-term research with larger cohorts is recommended.
Influence of the water content in polyamide 6 on atmospheric pressure plasma jet pre-treatment and adhesion for adhesive bonding
Authors: Beier Christoph J. A. , Schiebahn Alexander , Reisgen Uwe
Published: October 2024

To quantify the influence of absorbed water in PA6 on the pre-treatment and bonding process, an unfilled and unreinforced PA6 material is investigated in a dried and saturated state. The material is pre-treated by atmospheric pressure plasma jet (APPJ) with varying jet distances. The surfaces are investigated by contact angle measurements, DSC and FTIR to detect molecular and morphological changes in the surface. To evaluate the bonding strength, samples are bonded with a two-component polyurethane adhesive and a two-component acrylate adhesive and tested in a lap shear and a tensile configuration. The results show that water content has a significant influence on the effectivity of the pre-treatment process and the resulting bonding strength and failure mechanism. The adhesion is majorly affected, however these effects do not influence the macroscopic wetting behavior and cannot be measured in contact angles. FTIR spectra and DSC scans do not show significant changes in molecular groups or crystallinity that would explain the observed adhesion improvement in dried samples. High bonding strength is only achieved with adherents at low water content.
Digesting the facts: recent progresses in nutritional therapies for inflammatory bowel diseases
Authors: Hu Jun , Zhi Min , Zhu Lixin
Published: October 2024

Imbalanced dietary intake is common in patients with inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). Studies on pre-illness dietary intake identified risk and protective food groups and nutrients. Based on these findings, the American Gastroenterological Association states that patients with IBD will benefit from a diet rich in a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, monounsaturated fats, complex carbohydrates, and lean proteins while being low in ultraprocessed foods, added sugar, and salt. Malnutrition is common in IBD, especially Crohn’s disease. Nutritional therapies were initiated to improve the nutritional status of the patients, and happen to induce remission in many patients. However, nutritional interventions may achieve better outcomes by incorporating the findings on the dietary risk and protective factors for IBD.
Plant-based meat analogs: color challenges and coloring agents
Authors: Wu Haizhou , Sakai Kiyota , Zhang Jingnan , McClements David Julian
Published: October 2024

Interest in transitioning from animal-based to plant-based diets has surged due to ethical, environmental, and health considerations. Despite this shift, mimicking the appearance of real meat in plant-based alternatives presents significant challenges. This paper focuses on the color challenge in plant-based meat analogs and the coloring agents involved. After discussing the appearance and pigments of real meat and their color changes during storage, processing, and cooking, this paper delves into the major challenges and requirements of color when developing meat analogs. The coloring agents used for plant-based meat analogs are reviewed, including plant-derived biocolorants like leghemoglobin, betalains, lycopene and curcumin, and microbial pigments. Key factors influencing the coloration of these colorants, such as oxygen levels, pH, and temperature are discussed. Additionally, consumer acceptance of these coloring agents are addressed. Finally, it discusses the challenges in using these coloring agents and proposes avenues for future research.
Microscopic observations of smectite cation exchange in the absence of free water: implications for the evolution of Mars sediments
Authors: Geyer Christopher , Elwood Madden Andrew S. , Larson Preston R. , Elwood Madden Megan
Published: October 2024

Models of cation exchange mechanisms and driving forces have proven effective predictors of clay behavior and chemistry, but are largely theoretical, particularly in complex systems involving high ionic strength brines or systems where hydration is controlled by relative humidity. In arid and cold environments, such as Mars, cyclical relative humidity variations may play a role in chemical alteration, particularly if clay minerals such as smectite are in the presence of salts. This study examines the effects of relative humidity on smectite-salt mixtures using environmental scanning electron microscopy (ESEM) to observe the physiochemical effects of salt deliquescence and desiccation on smectite textures and elemental distributions. Results demonstrate that even reaction periods as short as a few minutes allow ample time for relative humidity to affect the smectite-salt mixtures. In addition to smectite swelling and salt deliquescence, we also observed rapid changes in element distributions within the smectite and new crystal growth in the presence of high relative humidity. Even in the absence of bulk liquid water, exchangeable cations migrated out of the smectite and formed new crystals at the smectite-salt interface. The observed microscopic changes in elemental distributions indicate that the migration of cations driven by cation exchange led to secondary mineral precipitation, likely a CaSO4 mineral, within a sub-micrometer-thick layer of water on the smectite grains. The results of this study demonstrate that during periods of elevated relative humidity, active smectite mineral alteration and secondary mineral precipitation may be possible on present-day Mars where salts and smectites are in direct physical contact.
Terrorist Attacks in Latin America from 1970 through 2020: Analysis and Impact from a Counter-Terrorism Medicine Perspective
Authors: Curtis Timothy J , Hertelendy Atilla J , Tin Derrick , Hata Ryan , Issa Fadi , Noel Jacob , Ciotonne Gregory R.
Published: October 2024

Objective

To analyze terror events in Latin America from 1970 through 2020 utilizing the Global Terrorism Database (GTD).

Methods

A retrospective descriptive analysis of data from 17 Latin America Countries from 1970 through 2020 was performed to include number of attacks, deaths, injuries, primary weapon types, location, and primary target types.

Results

A total 30,224 attacks were recorded, resulting in 60,163 deaths and 26,576 injuries. Firearms were the most frequent weapons used (12,651), followed by explosives (12,518), unspecified weapons (3,198), and incendiary devices (1,584). Military-related targets (4,929) were the most frequently targeted entities, followed by private citizens and property (4,906), businesses (4,810), general government facilities (3,994), police (2,955), diplomatic government facilities (604), and religious figures/institutions (464).

Conclusion

The health implications of terrorist attacks are often compounded by violence that pose unique challenges to populations, governments, and aid organizations. Through an understanding of the impact and scope of terrorist activity, Counter-Terrorism Medicine strategies can improve outcomes through all stages of the disaster cycle.
The Interplay Between Financial Strain, Health, and Quality of Life
Authors: Onwuka Chiadi
Published: October 2024

Objective

To elucidate the association between financial challenges, healthcare needs, and their subsequent impact on individuals’ mental health, physical well-being, and quality of life.

Methods

ChiKobi Health conducted a market research survey consisting of twenty questions. 25 participants responded, providing insights into their emotional states due to health or financial situations, daily energy levels, mental health associations with financial and healthcare situations, overall quality of life, experiences with chronic pain, physical functioning, and interests in healthcare management services and holistic products.

Results

Key findings indicate: 88% of respondents occasionally to often felt emotionally drained due to health or financial situations. 80% rated their overall quality of life as good to excellent, but 40% have experienced chronic pain that interfered with daily activities. 48% felt their physical health was occasionally to always hindered by financial or healthcare limitations. 60% expressed interest in personalized healthcare manager services and 84% in holistic medical products for preventative health needs.

Conclusions

Financial strain and healthcare challenges are significantly intertwined with individuals’ emotional and physical well-being. Given the current global challenges and climate change effects leading to more health-related crises, understanding these interrelationships is paramount for disaster medicine and public health efforts, particularly for vulnerable populations.
Coevolution of norm psychology and cooperation through exapted conformity
Authors: Kido Yuta , Takezawa Masanori
Published: October 2024

People willingly follow norms and values, often incurring material costs. This behaviour supposedly stems from evolved norm psychology, contributing to large-scale cooperation among humans. It has been argued that cooperation is influenced by two types of norms: injunctive and descriptive. This study theoretically explores the socialisation of humans under these norms. Our agent-based model simulates scenarios where diverse agents with heterogeneous norm psychologies engage in collective action to maximise their utility functions that capture three motives: gaining material payoff, following injunctive and descriptive norms. Multilevel selective pressure drives the evolution of norm psychology that affects the utility function. Further, we develop a model with exapted conformity, assuming selective advantage for descriptive norm psychology. We show that norm psychology can evolve via cultural group selection. We then identify two normative conditions that favour the evolution of norm psychology, and therefore cooperation: injunctive norms promoting punitive behaviour and descriptive norms. Furthermore, we delineate different characteristics of cooperative societies under these two conditions and explore the potential for a macro transition between them. Together, our results validate the emergence of large-scale cooperative societies through social norms and suggest complementary roles that conformity and punishment play in human prosociality.
Mental health and quality of life following breast cancer diagnosis in patients seen at a tertiary care hospital in Nairobi, Kenya: A qualitative study
Authors: Annamalai Divya , Helova Anna , Saleh Mansoor , Gikaara Nancy , Rupani Sehrish , Abayo Innocent , Karimi Noureen , Sharma Karishma , Omedo Isaiah , Owuor Kevin , Gutnik Lily , Turan Janet M.
Published: October 2024

Mental health challenges are common following cancer diagnosis, negatively impacting treatment and quality of life for breast cancer (BC) patients. This pilot study provides an understanding of the impacts of BC diagnosis and care experiences on the mental health of patients seen at the Aga Khan University Hospital in Nairobi, Kenya. We conducted 40 in-depth interviews, including 10 women with newly diagnosed BC, 10 women with metastatic BC, 10 family members and 10 healthcare professionals. Data were transcribed, translated into English as needed and coded using Dedoose software. Following BC diagnosis, it was reported that patients faced various physical, social, psychological and spiritual factors affecting their mental health and quality of life. Our interviews with each group indicated that BC patients experienced feelings of stress, anxiety and depression related to treatments and accompanying side effects. Disclosure concerns, financial impacts, relationship strain and negative outlooks on life were common among BC patients. The findings indicate that BC diagnosis and care experiences influence mental health in this population. With this basis, understanding and addressing the mental health challenges of BC patients is crucial to improve mental health and quality of life.
The Curated ATCA Census of High-Mass Clumps (CACHMC) Legacy Survey
Authors: Allingham David , Jackson James Michael , Hogge Taylor , Whitaker John Scott , Patterson Philippa , Killerby-Smith Nicholas , Askew Jacob , Vandenberg Thomas
Published: October 2024

In order to study the structure and temperature distribution within high-mass star-forming clumps, we employed the Australia Telescope Compact Array to image the

$\mathrm{NH}_3$

(J,K) = (1,1) through (6,6) and the (2,1) inversion transitions, the

$\mathrm{H}_2\mathrm{O}$

$6_{16}$

-

$5_{23}$

maser line at 22.23508 GHz, several

$\mathrm{CH}_3\mathrm{OH}$

lines and hydrogen and helium recombination lines. In addition, 22- and 24-GHz radio continuum emission was also imaged.

The

$\mathrm{NH}_3$

lines probe the optical depth and gas temperature of compact structures within the clumps. The

$\mathrm{H}_2\mathrm{O}$

maser pinpoints the location of shocked gas associated with star formation. The recombination lines and the continuum emission trace the ionised gas associated with hot OB stars. The paper describes the data and presents sample images and spectra towards select clumps. The technique for estimating gas temperature from

$\mathrm{NH}_3$

line ratios is described. The data show widespread hyperfine intensity anomalies in the

$\mathrm{NH}_3$

(1,1) images, an indicator of non-LTE

$\mathrm{NH}_3$

excitation. We also identify several new

$\mathrm{NH}_3$

(3,3) masers associated with shocked gas. Towards AGAL328.809+00.632, the

$\mathrm{H}_2\mathrm{O}$

$6_{16}$

-

$5_{23}$

line, normally seen as a maser, is instead seen as a thermally excited absorption feature against a strong background continuum. The data products are described in detail.