bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biomechanical Study of Atlanto-occipital Instability in Type II Basilar Invagination: A Finite Element Analysis
Authors: Ye Junhua , Huang Qinguo , Zhou Qiang , Li Hong , Peng Lin , Qi Songtao , Lu Yuntao
Published: September 2024

Objective: Recent studies indicate that 3 morphological types of atlanto-occipital joint (AOJ) exist in the craniovertebral junction and are associated with type II basilar invagination (BI) and atlanto-occipital instability. However, the actual biomechanical effects remain unclear. This study aims to investigate biomechanical differences among AOJ types I, II, and III, and provide further evidence of atlanto-occipital instability in type II BI.Methods: Models of bilateral AOJ containing various AOJ types were created, including I-I, I-II, II-II, II-III, and III-III models, with increasing AOJ dysplasia across models. Then, 1.5 Nm torque simulated cervical motions. The range of motion (ROM), ligament and joint stress, and basion-dental interval (BDI) were analyzed.Results: The C0–1 ROM and accompanying rotational ROM increased progressively from model I-I to model III-III, with the ROM of model III-III showing increases between 27.3% and 123.8% indicating ultra-mobility and instability. In contrast, the C1–2 ROM changes were minimal. Meanwhile, the stress distribution pattern was disrupted; in particular, the C1 superior facet stress was concentrated centrally and decreased substantially across the models. The stress on the C0–1 capsule ligament decreased during cervical flexion and increased during bending and rotating loading. In addition, BDI gradually decreased across the models. Further analysis revealed that the dens showed an increase of 110.1% superiorly and 11.4% posteriorly, indicating an increased risk of spinal cord impingement.Conclusion: Progressive AOJ incongruity critically disrupts supportive tissue loading, enabling incremental atlanto-occipital instability. AOJ dysplasia plays a key biomechanical role in the pathogenesis of type II BI.
Mixed Cellular and Antibody-Mediated Rejection—A Rare yet Morbid Occurrence
Authors: Chiodi Cristina , Tiwari Harsh , Bak Esther , Royer Amor , Jophlin Loretta , Marsano Luis
Published: September 2024

Liver transplantation remains the definitive treatment for end-stage liver disease, yet rejection of the transplanted organ poses a significant challenge to long-term graft survival. We present a case of a 47-year-old woman who underwent liver transplantation for primary sclerosing cholangitis. Following the procedure, the patient experienced a rare phenomenon of dual rejection, characterized by both acute cellular rejection and antibody-mediated rejection. Despite initial immunosuppressive therapy, the patient's condition deteriorated. Histopathological examination revealed concurrent signs of acute cellular rejection and antibody-mediated rejection, highlighting the complexity of immune response in allograft rejection. Management involved intensified immunosuppression targeting both T-cell-mediated and antibody-mediated pathways, along with plasmapheresis to remove circulating antibodies. This case highlights an atypical presentation of rejection after transplantation. Further research is warranted to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and optimal management approaches for dual rejection in liver transplantation.
Biliary Colonic Fistula Formation in the Setting of Obstructive Cholelithiasis
Authors: Mushtaq Muhammad , Khan Ayesha , Tran Minh , Walker John , Parupudi Sreeram
Published: September 2024

Biliary enteric fistulas are rare form of internal biliary fistula encountered in <1% of patients with biliary disease while cholecystocolic fistulas are even rarer with reported incidence of 0.06%–0.14% in patients undergoing cholecystectomy. We present a case of biliary colonic fistula that developed in the context of obstructive cholelithiasis, emphasizing a pathological process involving chronic inflammation due to gallstone with a gradual erosion into the surrounding structure. A high index of suspicion is required for diagnosis, given the presentation with nonspecific symptoms. Given the risk of imminent cholangitis, sepsis, and liver parenchymal damage, early treatment with cholecystectomy with the closure of the fistula is recommended.
Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia From Tofacitinib Use in a Patient With Ulcerative Colitis
Authors: Zisman Erin , Bashir-Hamidu Rukaiya , George Lauren
Published: September 2024

Tofacitinib is a Janus kinase inhibitor commonly used in the management of rheumatoid arthritis and moderate-to-severe ulcerative colitis. Anemia is a rare side effect of this medication often with minimal changes in hemoglobin levels. We report the first case of autoimmune hemolytic anemia from tofacitinib use in a patient with inflammatory bowel disease. This patient developed transfusion-dependent anemia after the initiation of tofacitinib and underwent extensive workup that revealed a diagnosis of autoimmune hemolytic anemia. The medication was discontinued, and she was treated with steroids and rituximab, leading to the improvement and stabilization of her hemoglobin levels.
Type 2 amiodarone-induced thyrotoxicosis: factors of delayed response to glucocorticoid therapy
Authors: Ermolaeva A. S. , Fadeev V. V.
Published: September 2024

BACKGROUND. Glucocorticoids are first-line drugs for the treatment of amiodarone-induced destructive thyroiditis. Due to the progression of left ventricular dysfunction, recurrence of rhythm disturbances and increased risk of adverse cardiovascular outcomes in this cohort of patients, rapid restoration of euthyroidism, especially in the elderly, is crucial. However, it is not always feasible with the drug therapy, because the time to achieve euthyroidism is unpredictable in each individual case. Identification of factors that allow predicting the efficacy and duration of glucocorticoid therapy will help to determine the correct tactics of patient management.

AIM. To identify factors of delayed response to glucocorticoid therapy in patients with type 2 amiodarone-induced thyrotoxicosis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS. The study included 11 retrospective and 22 prospective patients aged 30 to 80 years (21 men and 12 women) with verified type 2 amiodarone-induced thyrotoxicosis, who received prednisolone therapy at a starting dose of 30 mg/day. Anamnestic, anthropometric data, results of laboratory and instrumental diagnostics were analyzed. The follow-up period of patients was 1–5 years. The effecasy of therapy was evaluated by the time to achieve euthyroidism, duration of thyrotoxicosis, frequency of repeated waves of destruction and relapses.

RESULTS. The average age of the patients was 57.0 [52.0; 66.0] years. After 1 month (30 days) from the start of glucocorticoid therapy, euthyroidism was achieved in 17/33 (51.5%) patients, pfT4GK-fT4GK1month<0.001, pfT3GK-fT3GK1month<0.001. Delayed achievement of euthyroidism (>30 days) was observed in 48.5% of patients. The median time to achieve euthyroidism was 72.0±3.0 (95% CI: 66.1–77.9) days, the average time was 86.9±13.4 (95% CI: 60.6–113.1) days. The median duration of thyrotoxicosis was 120.0±22.1 (95% CI: 76.6—163.4) days, the average time was 137.8±15.6 (95% CI: 107.2–168.4) days. The level of free thyroxine after 30 days of therapy depended on the interval «clinical symptoms — laboratory confirmation» (R2=0.120, p=0.049). Time to achieve euthyroidism depended on age (R2=0.185; p=0.013). Age was also a predictor of repeated waves of destruction (OR=0.833, 95% CI:0.709–0.978; R2=0.428, p=0.025).

CONCLUSION. Age is a predictive factor for the time to achieve euthyroidism in type 2 amiodarone-induced thyrotoxicosis.
Difficulties in the diagnosis of parathyroid carcinomas due to atypical location with the thyroid gland
Authors: Abdulkhabirova F. M. , Bondarenko E. V. , Fadeeva M. I. , Komshilova K. A. , Urusova L. S. , Porubaeva E. E. , Matrosova A. A. , Mokrysheva N. G.
Published: September 2024

Parathyroid carcinoma (PC) accounts for 0.005% of all malignant neoplasms and is usually associated with an unfavourable prognosis. The greatest diagnostic difficulties arise from the atypical location of thyroid neoplasms. The prevalence of ectopic location of parathyroid gland (PG) ranges from 2 to 43%, while the incidence of this anomaly in patients with primary hyperparathyroidism is 16-30%. This article analyses the difficulties in diagnosing PC with atypical location of the thyroid gland, using two clinical cases as examples, and suggests additional methods for a personalised approach.
Dental Health Status and Associated Factors in the Deprived Population Co opulation Covered by Rural Dental Insur al Dental Insurance Pr ance Program in the am in the Province of Kerman/Iran
Authors:   Health Foresight and Innovation Research Center, Institute of Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran, sabermahany@gmail.com, Sabermahani Asma , Jafari Sirizi Mohammad ,   National Center for Health Insurance Research, Tehran, Iran, Shaker Zinab ,   Faculty of Management and Medical Information Sciences, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran, Hassanzadeh Rasool ,   Kerman university of medical sciences, dr.hassanzadeh1348@gmail.com, Malekmohammadi Tayebeh ,   Kerman University of Medical Sciences, tmalekmohammadi@yahoo.com, Hasheminejad Naimeh ,   Kerman University of Medical Sciences, tmalekmohammadi@yahoo.com
Published: September 2024

Tooth decay is a widespread disease with considerable financial and psychological costs. Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate dental health of a large sample of people covered by rural insurance program in Kerman province. Methods: A sample size of 5000 was determined among people living in villages and towns with a population of less than 20000 who are all covered by dental rural insurance program. The DMFT/dmft index was assessed in five target age groups using the WHO oral health measurement standard form. Demographic and socioeconomic status of participants was also recorded. The percentage of people in need of immediate treatment was also recorded. STATA software version 14. Regression analysis and chi square tests were used for further data analysis. Results: Questionnaires of 3248 participants qualified to enter the study. The least mean DMFT score was related to the 12 year target group (3.1 ± 2.7) and the 65-74 year target group revealed the highest mean DMFT score (20.8 ± 12.2). In most target groups, the decayed component of DMFT/dmft index contributed the most to the overall score. DMFT index revealed an increase compared to the results of 2012 survey. Overall, 8.3 percent of individuals were in need of immediate treatment. Tooth brushing status and the use of fluoridated toothpaste was related to lower DMFT/dmft scores. Conclusion: Despite the rural dental insurance coverage, the DMFT/ dmft has not decreased in this more deprived population of Kerman province. An evaluation of this program is needed to detect possible defaults. Dental health education with a special emphasis on toothbrushing with a fluoride containing toothpaste can help improve dental health.
Assessment of Mandibular Incisive Canal and Anterior Loop in Cone Beam Computed Tomography in Vietnamese Mature Patients: A Retrospective Study
Authors:   Division of Research and Treatment for Oral Maxillofacial Congenital Anomalies, Aichi Gakuin University, Nagoya, Japan, Kha Le Anh , Phuong Tran Thao ,   Division of Research and Treatment for Oral Maxillofacial Congenital Anomalies, Aichi Gakuin University, Nagoya, Japan, Thu Nguyen Tra ,   School of Dentistry, Hanoi Medical University, Ha Noi, Viet Nam, Nguyen Gia Pham Loc ,   Division of Research and Treatment for Oral Maxillofacial Congenital Anomalies, Aichi Gakuin University, Nagoya, Japan, Thanh Nguyen Trung ,   School of Dentistry, Hanoi Medical University, Ha Noi, Viet Nam, Hoang Do Viet ,   School of Dentistry, Hanoi Medical University, Ha Noi, Viet Nam
Published: September 2024

Objective: This study aimed to assess the anatomical length of the mandibular incisive canal and anterior loop and the distance to surrounding structures. Methods: Our study was conducted on 70 cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) films of 70 Vietnamese adult outpatients (40 females, 30 males) at Hanoi Medical University, Vietnam. T-test was applied to assess the difference between the two sides and genders. Results: The mean length of the mandibular incisive canal (MIC) was 12.83 ± 5.13 mm. The anterior loop (AL) prevalence was 62.86%, with an average length of 2.37 ± 0.90 mm. The difference between the right and left sides was statistically significant (p < 0.05), measuring 2.51 ± 0.87 mm and 2.24 ± 0.92 mm, respectively. Our research findings revealed that the distance from the MIC to the alveolar border was approximately twice as long as the distance to the inferior border, with measurements exceeding 17 mm, and it was closer to the buccal cortical bone than the lingual border. Conclusion: The length of AL on the right side was greater. Due to the high prevalence of the MIC and the AL, clinicians should observe the mandibular incisive canal and anterior loop on CBCT scans before performing clinical procedures to avoid injuries.
Incisal Trait Variations Between Javanese and Chinese-Indonesians in Surabaya
Authors:   Department of Anthropology, Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Universitas Gadjah Mada,Yogyakarta, Indonesia, Avianto Rahmat , Muhammad Alaydrus Sayf ,   Department of Anthropology, Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, Indonesia, Dyah Artaria Myrtati ,   Department of Anthropology, Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, Indonesia, Chen Yao-Fong ,   Department of Human Development and Psychology, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan, Republic of China
Published: September 2024

Human teeth are unique since one population’s dental pattern might differ from another. Such specific dental characteristics, such as the incisor, are observable in each dentition. Objective: his study analyzed the population differences in Javanese and Chinese-Indonesian populations through observations of the incisal traits, namely winging, shoveling, and double shoveling. Methods: 50 dental casts (76 Javanese samples and 74 ChineseIndonesian samples) were obtained from Dr. Myrtati Dyah Artaria’s private collection, stored in the Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Airlangga. The traits were observed and scored using the Arizona State University Dental Anthropology System (ASUDAS) and analyzed statistically using crosstab and chi-square methods. Results: Only three out of 13 test results exhibit significant differences (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The dentitions observed in the Chinese-Indonesian samples mirror the immense Chinese acculturation into Javanese cultures through interbreeding that happened generations ago. The gene flow between these two populations appears phenotypically in the dentitions, leading the Chinese-Indonesian samples in this study to express Sundadont traits despite their noticeable facial traits and heritage.
A tailored cytochrome P450 monooxygenase from Gordonia rubripertincta CWB2 for selective aliphatic monooxygenation
Authors: Schultes Fabian Peter Josef , Welter Leon , Schmidtke Myra , Tischler Dirk , Mügge Carolin
Published: September 2024

Cytochrome P450 monooxygenases are recognized as versatile biocatalysts due to their broad reaction capabilities. One important reaction is the hydroxylation of non-activated C–H bonds. The subfamily CYP153A is known for terminal hydroxylation reactions, giving access to functionalized aliphatics. Whilst fatty derivatives may be converted by numerous enzyme classes, midchain aliphatics are seldomly accepted, a prime property of CYP153As. We report here on a new CYP153A member from the genome of the mesophilic actinobacterium Gordonia rubripertincta CWB2 as an efficient biocatalyst. The gene was overexpressed in Escherichia coli and fused with a surrogate electron transport system from Acinetobacter sp. OC4. This chimeric self-sufficient whole-cell system could perform hydroxylation and epoxidation reactions: conversions of C6–C14 alkanes, alkenes, alcohols and of cyclic compounds were observed, yielding production rates of, e.g., 2.69 mM h−1 for 1-hexanol and 4.97 mM h−1 for 1,2-epoxyhexane. Optimizing the linker compositions between the protein units led to significantly altered activity. Balancing linker length and flexibility with glycine-rich and helix-forming linker units increased 1-hexanol production activity to 350 % compared to the initial linker setup with entirely helical linkers. The study shows that strategic coupling of efficient electron supply and a selective enzyme enables previously challenging monooxygenation reactions of midchain aliphatics.
Bidirectional high-speed optical wireless communication with tunable large field of view assisted by liquid crystal metadevice
Authors: Wu Mian , Yang Chao , Gong Yuhan , Wu Lin , Luo Ming , Qiu Ying , Zeng Yongquan , Li Zile , Liu Zichen , Li Chao , Li Hanbing , Xiao Xi , He Zhixue , Zheng Guoxing , Yu Shaohua , Tao Jin
Published: September 2024

Beam-steered infrared (IR) light communication has gained tremendous attention as one of the solutions of congested wireless communication traffic. High performance active beam-steering devices play a crucial role in data allocation and exchange. Conventional beam-steering devices such as spatial light modulator (SLM) and micro-electrical mechanical system (MEMS) mirror and the current emerging nonmechanical beam-steering metasurface-based devices are challenging to realize a large tunable steering angle beyond several degrees, which significantly hinders the spatial application of optical wireless communications (OWC). Herein, an angle-magnified liquid crystal (LC) metadevice consisting of LC metasurfaces and a liquid crystal on silicon (LCoS) is proposed to realize active beam steering with a tunable large field of view (FOV). Based on the angle-magnified tunable LC metadevice, an intelligent bidirectional high-speed OWC system is experimentally demonstrated, achieving an actively enlarged FOV of 20° × 20°, with a data rate of 200 Gbps over the S/C/L band for both uplink and downlink transmission over a propagation distance of 1.5 m in free space. The proposed OWC system opens a new avenue for the future high performance wireless data transmission.
Determinants of health insurance adoption among residents of Lagos, Nigeria: A cross-sectional survey
Authors: Adeniran Adeyinka , Wright Kikelomo Ololade , Aderibigbe Adedayo , Akinyemi Olufunsho , Fagbemi Temiloluwa , Ayodeji Omoyeni , Adepase Abiola , Zamba Emmanuella , Abdur-Razzaq Hussein , Oniyire Faith , Ogboye Olusegun , Abayomi Akin
Published: September 2024

Introduction

This study assessed health insurance uptake, and payment preferences for health insurance enrollment, and identified barriers and facilitators of the utilization of health insurance amongst residents in Lagos State.

Methodology

The study employed a cross-sectional survey design to gather data from 2,490 residents across four local government areas in Lagos State, Nigeria, between December 2022 and March 2023. Participants were selected through a multistage sampling technique, and data were collected using pre-tested, semi-structured questionnaires. The analysis comprised univariate, bivariate, and binary logistic regression analyses, performed using the STATA 15.0 software package. The level of statistical significance was set at P < 0.05, and 95% confidence intervals were calculated for the adjusted odds ratios.

Results

Awareness of health insurance was generally average among respondents (54.4%) and extremely few respondents (10.9%) had ever been enrolled in one form of health insurance or the other. The private health insurance schemes were the most frequently patronized scheme (58.5%) while the Lagos State-owned scheme was patronized by less than one-fifth (15.9%) of respondents. The need to prevent a catastrophic health event (56.3%) and compulsion at the workplace (13.1%) were the main facilitators of health insurance uptake while financial constraints (10%) and a general lack of belief in the concept of health insurance (6%) were major barriers that prevented enrollment. Age, employment status, level of education, income, occupation, and rate of health morbidity were all predictors of health insurance adoption in this study (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Heightened awareness campaigns are necessary from both government and private entities in the health insurance sector. Additionally, the government should enforce mandatory enrollment in health insurance schemes in order to boost insurance coverage across the population.
Retroactivity in Science: Latour, Žižek, Kuhn
Authors: Harman Graham
Published: September 2024

This article discusses three recent philosophers who speak in different ways about the retroactive construction of reality by human knowledge. Bruno Latour unapologetically claims that the Egyptian Pharaoh Ramses II could not have died of tuberculosis, as determined by a team of French doctors in 1976, since this disease was not discovered until three thousand years after his death. Slavoj Žižek often makes comparable arguments, though his version of retroactivity draws on both psychoanalysis and dialectics in a way that is never the case for Latour. Yet in his 2012 book Less Than Nothing, Žižek takes the more prudent, realist-sounding line that changes in scientific theories do not change nature itself. The real novelty in retroactive theories is provided by Thomas Kuhn, who draws our attention to a grey temporal zone in scientific discovery in which it is impossible to pinpoint the exact date of any breakthrough. For Kuhn, this stems from a dualism found in reality itself: one between the fact “that” a thing exists and the determination of “what” its properties are. The tension between these two moments is responsible for much of the vagueness and drama surrounding any paradigm shift in the sciences and is closely related to at least one plausible theory of metaphor. In closing, three Hollywood films are cited as helpful examples for understanding the different ways in which a paradigm shift works its retroactive magic.
From ‘low-class’ and ‘talentless’ to ‘narcissist and pathological liar’: a functional-pragmatic approach to Meghan Markle’s negative evaluation on X
Authors: del Saz-Rubio Mᵃ Milagros
Published: September 2024

This paper looks into how aggression against Meghan Markle is deployed in a sample of X replies that address her directly through the lens of Appraisal Theory coupled with impoliteness. A sample of tweets containing the seed word “Meghan Markle” was retrieved with Export Comments (December 2022–April 2023). Replies were run through the Linguistic Inquiry and Word Count-22 to assess the tone and prevalence of emotions in the corpus. Results indicated high values for negative emotions, interpersonal conflict, and moralization words. Then, a random sample was manually codified to identify the use frequencies for the Attitude system’s affect, judgment, and appreciation categories when employed to convey hostility against the public figure. Tweets were overwhelmingly negative and explicitly conveyed through the negative judgment of Meghan Markle’s previous sexual and professional life. The veracity of her words and actions was also a source of aggression while tapping into the widely accepted stereotype that depicts women as liars or as incompetent and lacking determination, while some tweets also touched upon her mental instability. Findings reveal that aggressive tweets on X rely on appraisal resources and impolite-related language to promote and perpetuate culturally bound and traditional beliefs about women that ultimately reflect an underlying patriarchal system.
Temporal ‘since’ constructions in cross-linguistic perspective
Authors: Olguín Martínez Jesús , Vásquez-Aguilar Alonso , Valenzuela Pilar
Published: September 2024

The paper offers an analysis of the cross-linguistic variation in the expression of clausal temporal ‘since’ relations (e.g., I have been working since you arrived) in a sample of 59 languages. First, the investigation explores whether clausal temporal ‘since’ constructions bear formal resemblance to nominal temporal ‘since’ constructions (e.g., It has been raining since yesterday), nominal beginning-to-end constructions (e.g., They will sleep from tonight to tomorrow), and clausal beginning-to-end constructions (e.g., From the moment they were born, until they died, they never paid their bills). While, in most languages in the sample, these constructions are formed with the same pattern, the paper shows that there may be more to the story. Second, it is shown that at least one of the markers encoding nominal beginning-to-end constructions tends to be simpler (in terms of the number of segments) than the markers found in clausal temporal ‘since’ constructions or clausal ‘until’ constructions. It is proposed that this is the result of economy.
Molecular mechanisms of the anticancer action of fustin isolated from Cotinus coggygria Scop. in MDA-MB-231 triple-negative breast cancer cell line
Authors: Antov Georgi G. , Gospodinova Zlatina I. , Novakovic Miroslav , Tesevic Vele , Krasteva Natalia A. , Pavlov Danail V. , Valcheva-Kuzmanova Stefka V.
Published: September 2024

The aim of the present work was to investigate some of the molecular mechanisms and targets of the anticancer action of the bioflavonoid fustin isolated from the heartwood of Cotinus coggygria Scop. in the triple-negative breast cancer cell line MDA-MB-231. For this purpose, we applied fluorescence microscopy analysis to evaluate apoptosis, necrosis, and mitochondrial integrity, wound healing assay to study fustin antimigratory potential and quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction to analyze the expression of genes associated with cell cycle control, programmed cell death, metastasis, and epigenetic alterations. A complex network-based bioinformatic analysis was also employed for protein–protein network construction, hub genes identification, and functional enrichment. The results revealed a significant induction of early and late apoptotic and necrotic events, a slight alteration of the mitochondria-related fluorescence, and marked antimotility effect after fustin treatment. Of 34 analyzed genes, seven fustin targets were identified, of which CDKN1A, ATM, and MYC were significantly enriched in pathways such as cell cycle, intrinsic apoptotic signaling pathway in response to DNA damage and generic transcription pathway. Our findings outline some molecular mechanisms of the anticancer action of fustin pointing it out as a potential oncotherapeutic agent and provide directions for future in vivo research.
Ab-initio simulation of ferromagnetic chalcogenide CdCe2X4 (X = S, Se) spinels for optoelectronic applications
Authors:   Department of Physics, RIPHAH International University, Campus Lahore, Pakistan, Zanib M. , Yasir M. A. ,   Department of Physics, RIPHAH International University, Campus Lahore, Pakistan, Noor N. A. ,   Department of Physics, RIPHAH International University, Campus Lahore, Pakistan, Mumtaz S. ,   Electrical and Biological Physics, Kwangwoon University, Seoul, 01897, South Korea, Al-Sadoon Mohammad K. ,   Department of Zoology, College of Science, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2455, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
Published: September 2024

DFT approach was employed to examine the mechanical and optoelectronic properties of CdCe2X4 (X = S, Se) for investigating their fundamental attributes leading to the FM semiconducting capabilities. In this letter, we computed the precise spin-polarized electrical characteristics using mBJ potential and evaluated the physical and mechanical features via PBEsol-GGA functional. The materials' brittleness has been disclosed by the obtained elastic parameters and related components. According to the analysis of band structure configuration and density of states plots, the aforementioned composites are accounted to be the most durable. In the FM phase, these compounds’ durability is because of rare earth Ce ions’ exchange splitting within the crystal structure, which is prompted by p-d hybridization. Band exchange splitting has been significantly affected by the participation among impurity cations and resident anions as well as by their spin, charge, and magnetism. In addition, the present study entailed a thorough analysis of the dielectric parameter, which in turn gained insight into the compound's spectral behavior. FM semiconducting features played vital role in scientific improvements of photovoltaic appliances. The parameters estimated in the current investigation might help scientists to explore modifications in the functionality of CdCe2X4 (X = S, Se).
Influence of silver seed layer thickness and zinc oxide concentration on p-type charge carriers in nanorods
Authors:   Ministery of Education, Directorate General for Education, Baghdad, Iraq, Jubear S. K. , Hassan E. S. ,   Physics department, college of science, Mustansiriyah University, Baghdad, Iraq, Abdulmunem O. M. ,   Physics department, college of science, Mustansiriyah University, Baghdad, Iraq
Published: September 2024

The hydrothermal technique (90°C, 6 h) was used in this study to generate negatively conductive zinc oxide (ZnO) nanorods (NRs) on silver (Ag) nucleation layers, which have been deposited on glass substrate through DC magnetron sputtering and had average thicknesses ranging from 150 nm to 1500 nm. The properties that were studied were optical, structural, and electrical. ZnO NR films were all polycrystalline, according to structural measurements, and (002) plane exhibited the dominant reflection. ZnO NRs' reflection intensity reduced as the thickness regarding Ag nucleation layer increased, suggesting a reduction in the crystallization intensity. Surface measurements demonstrated that there was a discernible change in the nanostructures' shape as the thickness of the Ag nucleation layer increased. The nanostructures went from radially spherical configurations to needles, irregular rods, and finally regular hexagonal rods perpendicular to glass substrate's surface. As the thickness of Ag nucleation layer rose, optical tests revealed a drop in transmittance and an increase in optical energy gap values, while Hall measurements revealed an increase in the concentration of hole charge carriers from 8.755 1017 cm−3 to 12.788 1017 cm−3.
DFT study of elastic and thermodynamic properties of solar material Cu2ZnSnS4
Authors:   School of Materials Science and Engineering, Yancheng Institute of Technology, Yancheng, 224051, China, Fan S. H. , Hou H. J. ,   School of Materials Science and Engineering, Yancheng Institute of Technology, Yancheng, 224051, China, Guo H. L. ,   College of Electronic and Information Engineering, Yangtze Normal University, Fuling, 408000, Chongqing, China
Published: September 2024

In this study, the mechanical characteristics of Cu2ZnSnS4 are investigated under varying pressures. The correlations between pressure and elastic constants Cij, bulk modulus B, shear modulus G, and Young's modulus E, are obtained. The thermal properties of Cu2ZnSnS4 were studied, including Debye temperature θ, heat capacity CV and CP, thermal expansion coefficient α, Grüneisen constant γ and entropy S at temperatures (0, 200, 400, 600, 800, 1000, 1200K) and pressures (0, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10 GPa), are also obtained and analyzed.
Structural parameters determination of ALD-SnO2 thin films grown on silicon (100) and boron-doped silicon (100) substrates
Authors:   Valley Technological Institute of Morelia, National Technological Institute of México, Morelia, Michoacán, México, Rodríguez-López J. , Rangel R. ,   Chemical Engineering Faculty, Michoacan University, Morelia, Michoacán, México. Morelia, Michoacán, México, Lara-Romero J. ,   Chemical Engineering Faculty, Michoacan University, Morelia, Michoacán, México. Morelia, Michoacán, México, Quintana-Owen P. ,   Applied Physics Deparment-CINVESTAV. Mérida, Yucatán, México, Bartolo-Pérez P. ,   Applied Physics Deparment-CINVESTAV. Mérida, Yucatán, México, Ramos-Carrazco A. ,   Department of Physics Research, University of Sonora. Hermosillo, Sonora, México
Published: September 2024

The present study describes the synthesis of SnO2 thin films achieved by the atomic layer deposition technique based on the reaction of tetrakis(dimethylamino)tin (Sn(NMe2)4 and H2O. The experiments were realized at 2.7 × 10-4 atm and 150 °C on silicon, or boron-doped silicon substrates. To characterize the physicochemical properties of the films, XRD was used to calculate the structural parameters of SnO2 thin films. Also, SEM, XPS, Raman, and UV-Vis spectroscopy techniques were used to understand the morphology, composition, and optical properties. The results indicate that the procedure presented here offers a viable alternative for fabricating high-quality SnO2 thin films that can be used in various technological fields, such as sensors, electronic, and optoelectronic devices.
Tuning of energy storage capacity of BiFeO3 nanoparticles By La/Cr co-doping
Authors:   Department of Physics, The University of Lahore, Lahore, Pakistan, Amin M. , Mustafa G. M. ,   Department of Physics, Division of Science & Technology, University of Education, Lahore, Pakistan, Anwar-ul-Haq  ,   Department of Physics, The University of Lahore, Lahore, Pakistan, Younas B. ,   Department of Physics, The University of Lahore, Lahore, Pakistan, Khan M. I. ,   Department of Physics, The University of Lahore, Lahore, Pakistan, Atif M. ,   Department of Physics and Astronomy, College of Science, King Saud University, P O Box 2455, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia, Ashraf A. ,   Departamento de Engenharia de Materiais, Escola de Engenharia de Lorena (EEL), Universidade de São Paulo (USP), Lorena 12.612 - 550, Sao Paulo, Brazil, Ali M. ,   The University of Electro-Communications Tokyo Japan
Published: September 2024

Cr-doped Bi0.9La0.1Fe1-xCrxO3 with x = 0, 0.05, 0.10, 0.15, and 0.20 is fabricated by the sol-gel auto-combustion. The rhombohedral phase of pure and doped bismuth ferrite is confirmed during structural analysis. The structural parameters are further refined using X’pert High score plus by calculating the atomic positions and different profile factors which assured the reliability of the structural data. As Cr content is increased, it results the better crystallinity with uniform distribution of multi-shape grains. The size of grains varied which affected the microstructural characteristics of the parent compositions. The presence of constituent elements with a stoichiometric ratio is established by elemental analysis which guarantees elemental purity of prepared samples. The introduction of La followed by increasing contents of Cr in the parent composition improved the magnetic response. Ferroelectric analysis revealed that both saturation and remanent polarizations are increased with increasing doping levels. The calculation of recoverable and energy loss density ensured that the parent composition was more suitable for the energy storage devices. The multiferroic properties of synthesized samples are comprehensively explored to evaluate the worth of these materials for futuristic energy storage and multistate devices.
Melatonin attenuates hepatic oxidative stress by regulating the P62/LC3 autophagy pathway in PCOS
Authors: Zhang Junhui , Zhang Hongyan , Guo Bao , Yang Jun , Yu Renxiang , Chen Wenxiu , Zhai Muxin , Cao Yuhan , Liu Yajing , Hong Qiang , Xie Fenfen
Published: September 2024

Graphical abstract

The potential protective mechanisms of MT on hepatic OS in PCOS. MT could lead to a decrease in autophagy, presenting a decrease of LC3 and an increase of P62 in the PCOS liver. Increased P62 could reduce Nrf2 ubiquitination and increase its nuclear translocation and activation through direct interaction with Keap1. Thus, MT ultimately activated the Keap1-Nrf2 pathway, promoting nuclear Nrf2 expression to reduce hepatic OS.

The elevated level of hepatic oxidative stress (OS) in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the important causes of liver abnormalities. Therefore, decreasing the level of hepatic OS in PCOS is beneficial in reducing the risk of PCOS-related liver diseases. Melatonin (MT) is recognized as a potent antioxidant. Nevertheless, the efficacy of MT in alleviating hepatic OS associated with PCOS is yet to be established, and the precise mechanisms through which MT exerts its antioxidant effects remain to be fully elucidated. The aim of this study was to explore the potential mechanisms by which MT reduces hepatic OS in PCOS. First, we detected elevated OS levels in PCOS samples. Subsequently, with MT pretreatment, we discovered that MT could significantly diminish the levels of OS, liver triglycerides, total cholesterol, alanine aminotransferase, and aspartate aminotransferase, while concurrently ameliorating mitochondrial structural damage in the PCOS liver. Furthermore, we identified elevated autophagy levels in the liver of PCOS rats and an inhibition of the Keap1–Nrf2 pathway. Through MT pretreatment, the expression of LC3 was significantly decreased, while the Keap1–Nrf2 pathway was activated. Our study showed that MT could affect the Nrf2 pathway dependent on the P62/LC3 autophagy pathway, thereby attenuating hepatic OS in PCOS. These findings offer novel insights and research avenues for the study of PCOS-related liver diseases.
CLEAVAGE OF SOLID FILMS OF SUBMICRON THICKNESS AS A METHOD FOR PREPARING CROSS SECTIONS OF HETEROSTRUCTURES FOR HIGH-RESOLUTION TRANSMISSION MICROSCOPY
Authors: ВОРОБЬЁВ А.Б. , ГУТАКОВСКИЙ А.К. , ПРИНЦ В.Я.
Published: September 2024

Подробно описан метод препарирования, позволяющий получить бездефектные поперечные срезы гетероструктур для просвечивающей электронной микроскопии и обеспечивающий достижение атомного разрешения на большой площади. Метод проиллюстрирован примерами изучения гетерограниц сложной формы, селективного окисления и селективного травления сверхрешёток.

A preparation method is described in detail, which allows one to obtain defect-free cross sections of heterostructures for transmission electron microscopy and ensures the achievement of atomic resolution over a large area. The method is illustrated with examples of studying heterointerfaces of complex shape, selective oxidation, and selective etching of superlattices.
MOLECULAR BEAM EPITAXY OF GERMANIUM ON SI (001) FOR PHOTODETECTORS IN THE SPECTRAL RANGE FROM 1.3 TO 1.55 ΜM
Authors: ФРИЦЛЕР К.Б. , ДЕРЯБИН А.С. , ЛОШКАРЕВ И.Д. , НИКИФОРОВ А.И. , ЧИСТОХИН И.Б. , КОЛЕСНИКОВ А.В. , ВАСИЛЕНКО А.П. , ПЧЕЛЯКОВ О.П. , СОКОЛОВ Л.В. , ПЕВЧИХ К.Э. , СВЕТИКОВ В.В. , ГУТАКОВСКИЙ А.К.
Published: September 2024

Методом молекулярно-лучевой эпитаксии сформированы фоточувствительные слои германия на кремниевой подложке. Исследованы структурные, оптические и фотоэлектрические характеристики плёнок. Полученные данные подтверждают возможность использования изготовленных гетероструктур Ge на Si для создания фотодетекторов спектрального диапазона 1,3-1,55 мкм.

Photosensitive germanium layers on a silicon substrate have been formed by molecular beam epitaxy. The structural, optical and photovoltaic characteristics of the films have been investigated. The data obtained confirm the possibility of utilizing the developed Ge-on-Si heterostructures for the fabrication of photodetectors in the spectral range of 1.3-1.55 μm.
STRESS CONCENTRATION IN WELLBORE ZONES AT UNDERGROUND GAS STORAGES
Authors: СВАЛОВ А.М.
Published: September 2024

Исследованы особенности формирования зон концентрации напряжений в призабойных зонах скважин при эксплуатации подземных хранилищ газа. Численным моделированием установлено, что на начальной стадии процесса закачки газа под высоким давлением в подземных хранилищах газа вблизи кровли продуктивного пласта в породе и цементной оболочке скважины развиваются разрушающие напряжения сдвига, сопоставимые с давлением закачки, что может приводить к потере герметичности затрубного пространства скважин. Для предотвращения потерь газа предложено проводить расширение ствола скважины в кровле продуктивного пласта и устанавливать в соответствующем месте колонны обсадных труб пружинный центратор с номинальным диаметром, превышающим диаметр ствола, что остановит распространение зоны разрушения цементного камня. Для снижения интенсивности разрушающих напряжений в породе угловые зоны при расширении ствола скважины в интервале продуктивного пласта целесообразно делать закругленными.

The author studies stress concentration in wellbore zones during operation of underground gas storages. Numerical modeling yields that at the early stage of high-pressure injection of gas in underground gas storages, near the roof of a productive stratum, in rocks and in the cement lining, destructive shearing stresses arise, comparable with the injection pressure, which can induce the loss of tightness in the annular space. For preventing the loss of gas, it is proposed to ream the wells in the roof of a productive stratum and to install a spring centralizer at a certain place in the casing string. The nominal diameter of the centralizer should exceed the wellbore diameter. This can stop propagation of cement destruction. For decreasing the destructive stress intensity, it is advisable to round off corner zones while reaming within the interval of a productive strata.
INFLUENCE OF NATURAL ADDITIVE ON SLURRYABILITY AND FLOWABILITY OF IRON ORE
Authors: ГУПТА Ч. , КУМАР С.
Published: September 2024

Приведено детальное описание и стабилизация концентрированной суспензии железной руды (размер частиц ≤ 75 мкм) с помощью различных лабораторных испытаний. Рассмотрены реологические характеристики железной руды в диапазоне весовой концентрации 60 - 80 % при наличии и отсутствии экстракта Sapindus mukorossi (мыльного дерева) в качестве диспергатора. Устойчивость суспензии железной руды при наличии сапонина определяется реологическими свойствами, концентрацией диспергатора и механизмом стабилизации. Выполнен регрессионный анализ экспериментальных реологических данных при различной скорости сдвига; полученные результаты хорошо согласуются с моделью Гершеля - Балкли. Критическая мицеллярная концентрация водного экстракта диспергатора составила 0.018 г/см3. Наличие сапонина значительно улучшило смешиваемость и устойчивость суспензии железной руды. Анализ напорных потерь и удельного энергопотребления доказывает экономическую целесообразность использования поверхностно-активных веществ для транспортировки рудной пульпы по трубопроводам.

The present article describes the extensive characterization and stabilization of concentrated iron ore suspension having size ≤ 75 µm by various bench-scale tests. The rheological characteristics of iron ore in the concentration range of 60-80% (by wt.) have been investigated with and without the addition of Sapindus Mmukorossi dispersant. The stability of iron ore suspension with saponin is established through rheological properties, dispersant concentration and stabilization mechanism. The nature of experimental rheological data at different shear rates is accomplished by regression analysis and found to be a good fit with Herschel-Bulkley model. The Critical Micellar Concentration of the aqueous extracted dispersant is 0.018 g/cc. The presence of Sapindus Mukorossi saponin greatly improved the slurryability and stability of iron ore suspension. The head loss and specific energy consumption analysis successfully evidence the economic relevance of the surfactants in transporting the slurry through the pipelines.
Demand research of airport chairs based on Kano/function behavior structure model
Authors: Liang Qianwei , Chen Yushu
Published: September 2024

To improve the use experience of airport chairs, this study adopted morphological analysis to conduct systematic deconstruction, analysis, and statistics on the modeling features of existing airport chairs. The KJ method was used to determine the design requirements of airport chairs. The study combined the Kano model to classify the functional attributes and prioritize the requirements, and it merged the module and demand analysis to build a Function-Behavior-Structure mapping model. In this way, passengers’ demand for airport chairs can be clearly defined, and airport chair configuration planning can be carried out according to the difference in preferences. Further, different module combination schemes can be formed to improve the functional allocation efficiency of airport chairs, optimize the overall service quality of airports, and provide some basis and reference for the future design of airport chairs.
Trends in Enterobacterales Bloodstream Infections in Children
Authors: Gibbs Anna A. M. , Laupland Kevin B. , Edwards Felicity , Ling Weiping , Channon-Wells Samuel , Harley David , Falster Kathleen , Paterson David L. , Harris Patrick N. A. , Irwin Adam D.
Published: September 2024

OBJECTIVES

Enterobacterales bloodstream infections (E-BSI) cause a significant burden of disease in children and are associated with antimicrobial resistance. We assessed temporal changes in the population-based incidence of E-BSI in children in Queensland, Australia.

METHODS

We conducted a cohort study of incidents of E-BSI occurring in children in Queensland between 2000 and 2019, with a total population of 19.7 million child years. Infections were linked to clinical outcomes in hospital admissions and vital statistics databases. We estimated age- and sex-standardized E-BSI incidence rates over time. Secondary outcomes included the proportion of extended-spectrum β-lactamase phenotypes per year, hospital length of stay, and mortality.

RESULTS

We identified 1980 E-BSI in 1795 children. The overall age- and sex-standardized incidence rate was 9.9 cases per 100 000 child years, which increased from 7.3 to 12.9 over the period studied, an increase of 3.9% (95% confidence interval: 3.1–4.7) per year. There were 3.6 cases of E. coli bloodstream infection per 100 000 child years, increasing annually by 4.7% (3.5–5.9). The Salmonella sp. bloodstream infection incidence was 3.0 cases per 100 000 child years, which increased from 2013 by 13.7% (3.8–24.3) per year. The proportion of extended-spectrum β-lactamase E. coli increased over time. Mortality and length of stay were higher among children with comorbidities than those without (4.0% vs 0.3%, and 14 vs 4 days, respectively, P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

The age- and sex-standardized incidence of E-BSI almost doubled in Queensland children over 2 decades, driven by increases in Salmonella sp. and E. coli. Increasing resistance of E. coli should prompt the inclusion of children in antimicrobial clinical trials.
Enfermedades culturales de Taxco, México
Authors: Urióstegui Flores Adrián
Published: September 2024

Objetivo Registrar A) las enfermedades culturales de Taxco de Alarcón, así como B) las causas y los tratamientos de dichas afecciones.
Material y Métodos La investigación es de tipo cualitativo no probabilístico. Se utilizó investigación documental, informantes clave, grupo focal y entrevistas a profundidad. El trabajo se realizó en la ciudad de Taxco de Alarcón, ubicada en el estado de Guerrero, en México.
Resultados Se registraron 36 enfermedades culturales.
Conclusiones Como se confirmó, la población blanco entrevistada sigue atendiendo de manera cotidiana diversas enfermedades culturales, las cuales forman parte de una válida y actual cosmovisión médica tradicional.
‘Terrestrial’ and ‘maritime’ clauses in deeds documented on papyrus
Authors: Rodríguez Martín José-Domingo
Published: September 2024

The paper analyses the evolution of clauses relating to the debtor's assets in Egyptian legal papyri from Ptolemaic to Roman times. This evolution reflects the socio-economic change brought about by the replacement of a maritime economy by an agrarian one.
Nathalie Hambro: Particular Delights
Authors: D. J.M.
Published: September 2024

Nathalie Hambro: Particular Delights: Jill Norman & Hobhouse Ltd, London, 1981: 206 pages, illustrated, £6.50.
Myrtle Allen: The Ballymaloe Cookbook
Authors: Davidson Alan E
Published: September 2024

Myrtle Allen: The Ballymaloe Cookbook: Eyre Methuen, London, 1981: 176 pages, drawings by Mel Caiman, some photographs, paperback, £3.95.