bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Use of Conjugated Gold Nanorods with Reduced Toxicity in Photothermal Therapy for MRSA
Authors: Yusufbeyoğlu Sadi , Cinar Venhar , Ildiz Nilay , Hamurcu Zuhal , Ocsoy İsmail , Kilic Ayşe Baldemir
Published: March 2024

Methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is one of the deadliest pathogenic bacteria. Using photothermal therapy (PTT) to eradicate MRSA bacteria easily and effectively, it has directed this bacterium to be destroyed. Gold nanorods (AuNRs), which are nanoparticles that provide PPT, were synthesized and removed from the CTAB molecule reduce the toxic effect caused by CTAB. Subsequently, mercaptophenylboronic acid (MFBA) coated AuNRs were synthesized and used in photothermal therapy to develop a targeting agent to selectively eliminate MRSA. A decrease in cytotoxic effect of CTAB@AuNRs after conjugation with MFBA was also demonstrated by the MTS cell viability test. We found that at the end of 48 hours and 72 hours of interaction, IC50 values of MFBA@ AuNR increased by approximately 50 % compared to CTAB@AuNR. Also, it shows that the cytotoxicity of AuNRs conjugated with MFBA was reduced. Herein, photothermal efficiency was achieved with MFBA@AuNRs targeting MRSA. The purpose of using and modifying gold nanorods is to reduce the toxicity of AuNRs and to examine their efficacy on resistant pathogenic bacteria strains by taking advantage of photothermal therapy properties.
Visualization of Multiphase Reactive Flow and Mass Transfer in Functionalized Microfluidic Porous Media
Authors: Wei Hangkai , Sha Xin , Chen Li , Wang Zi , Zhang Chuangde , He Peng , Tao Wen‐Quan
Published: March 2024

Multiphase reactive flow in porous media is an important research topic in many natural and industrial processes. In the present work, photolithography is adopted to fabricate multicomponent mineral porous media in a microchannel, microfluidics experiments are conducted to capture the multiphase reactive flow, methyl violet 2B is employed to visualize the real‐time concentration field of the acid solution and a sophisticated image processing method is developed to obtain the quantitative results of the distribution of different phases. With the advanced methods, experiments are conducted with different acid concentration and inlet velocity in different porous structures with different phenomena captured. Under a low acid concentration, the reaction will be single phase. In the gaseous cases with higher acid concentration, preferential flow paths with faster flow and reaction are formed by the multiphase hydrodynamic instabilities. In the experiments with different inlet velocities, it is observed that a higher inlet velocity will lead to a faster reaction but less gas bubbles generated. In contrast, more gas bubbles would be generated and block the flow and reaction under a lower inlet velocity. Finally, in heterogeneous structures, fractures or cavities would significantly redirect the flow and promote the formation of preferential flow path nearby.
Multifunctional AZO/Ag(O)‐Based Transparent Conductor for Flexible and Transparent Optoelectronics
Authors: Nguyen Thanh Tai , Patel Malkeshkumar , Kim Joondong
Published: March 2024

Transparent photovoltaics (TPVs) generate electric power by selectively harvesting ultraviolet and/or near‐infrared light. If integrated with electronic products, TPV can sustainably power the products without affecting the user experience. Future electronics require flexibility and lightweight, hence the integrated TPV should also be flexible. To achieve this, a flexible, transparent conducting platform is desirable. A binary transparent conductor (TC) based on Ag(O) has been studied for flexible TPV. The oxygen‐induced Ag growth provides better Ag wettability, enabling a low sheet resistance of 12.5 Ω sq−1 at an Ag thickness of 6.5 nm. The AZO/Ag(O) binary structure, with an average visible transmittance value of 86%, has a figure of merit of 17.7 (10−3 Ω−1), which surpasses conventional TCs such as fluorine‐doped tin oxide and indium‐doped tin oxide . Furthermore, the multilayer design of Ag(O)‐based TC allows interfacial engineering to enhance the performance of TPV. The optimum photovoltaic performance of NiO/ZnO TPV is achieved with an AZO thickness of 12 nm, providing a performance enhancement of 700%. The NiO/ZnO/AZO/Ag(O) device exhibits a stable photovoltaic effect with a consistent open‐circuit voltage value of 0.4 V after numerous bending cycles with a bending radius of 0.7 cm.
Numerical Study on Characteristic Positions and Transition of Flow Patterns in a Slab Continuous Casting Mold
Authors: Rong Wenjie , Qiu Liang , Liu Zhongqiu , Li Baokuan , Liu Chengjun
Published: March 2024

The flow pattern in an opaque mold cannot be readily visible, and worker experience plays a major role in controlling it, even though it has a significant impact on slab quality in a continuous casting (CC) mold. An Eulerian–Eulerian two‐fluid model is used to comprehensively study the two‐phase flow of argon and molten steel in a slab CC mold. The positions of vortex centers in upper/lower recirculation zones and the impingement point of jet flow on the narrow face of mold are identified and their distribution is analyzed. The interactive effects of casting speed, argon flow rate, and immersion depth of the submerged entry nozzle (SEN) on the flow pattern inside the mold are revealed. 2D and 3D flow pattern regimes are plotted and the boundary lines and boundary surfaces are fit with exponential functions and ternary functions, respectively. To obtain a double roll flow in the slab CC mold investigated, the relation among argon flow rate (), casting speed (), and the immersion depth of the SEN () should satisfy, .
Numerische Untersuchungen als Teil der Begutachtung der historischen Lager des Chemnitzer Viadukts
Authors: Mensinger Martin , Kretz Joachim , Siebert Dorina
Published: March 2024

Im Rahmen der denkmalgerechten Ertüchtigung des Chemnitzer Viadukts mussten auch die Lagerbauteile aus Stahlguss begutachtet werden. Hierfür waren umfangreiche numerische Berechnungen erforderlich, um die Nachweise im Grenzzustand der Tragfähigkeit und im Grenzzustand der Gebrauchstauglichkeit zu führen. Ergebnisse der Finite‐Elemente‐Berechnungen unter Berücksichtigung der außergewöhnlichen Einwirkungskombination und Einheitslastfälle dienten als Eingangsparameter für bruchmechanische Untersuchungen zur Bewertung der Sprödbruchgefahr und des Nachweises der Sicherheit gegen Ermüdung. Zerstörungsfreie und zerstörende Prüfungen sowie Gusssimulationen und 3D‐Scans vervollständigten die Zustandsbewertung und damit die Gesamtbegutachtung der Gusslager. Komplexe Belastungszustände, wie Eigenspannungszustände aus Erstplastizierung, wurden durch nichtlineare Berechnungen mit Be‐, Ent‐ und Wiederbelastung berücksichtigt. Die numerischen Berechnungen werden in diesem Aufsatz, ergänzend zu den Ausführungen zu den anderen Bestandteilen der Begutachtung in Teil 1 dieses Aufsatzes, vorgestellt und exemplarische Ergebnisse gezeigt. Die detaillierte Nachrechnung war wichtige Grundlage zur Weiternutzung eines Großteils der Lagerbauteile.
Technische Instandsetzung und Verstärkung des Chemnitzer Viadukts
Authors: Stroetmann Richard , Christein Sandra , Oertel Steffen , Fuchs Alexander , Schönberg Matthias
Published: March 2024

Das im Zeitraum von 1901 bis 1909 für den viergleisigen Betrieb errichtete Chemnitzer Viadukt wird unter Auflagen des Denkmalschutzes für eine zeitgemäße Nutzung technisch instand gesetzt und verstärkt. Dabei werden die inneren beiden Überbauten mit Gleisen für den künftigen Schienenverkehr ausgestattet, die äußeren Überbauten zur Unterbringung von Inspektions‐, Wartungs‐ und Rettungswegen sowie der technischen Ausstattung genutzt. Der ca. 275 m lange und 17,50 m breite Brückenzug besteht aus zwei Bogen‐ und zehn Balkenfeldern. Bei der technischen Instandsetzung wurden die inneren Überbauten der Balkenfelder erneuert und als Stahl‐Beton‐Verbundkonstruktion ausgeführt. Die übrigen Konstruktionen wurden instand gesetzt, ertüchtigt und mit einer Stahlbetonkonstruktion oberhalb der Tonnenbleche ergänzt. Im vorliegenden Beitrag wird zunächst eine Übersicht zum bestehenden Bauwerk und der künftigen Nutzung gegeben. Es folgen Erläuterungen zur Planung, Ausschreibung und Ausführung der Baumaßnahmen. Im Anschluss werden verschiedene Maßnahmen zur technischen Instandsetzung und Verstärkung beschrieben. Der Beitrag schließt mit einer kurzen Zusammenfassung der beim Chemnitzer Viadukt gesammelten Erfahrungen zum Bauen im Bestand und dem Denkmalschutz.
Ternary Blend of Chitosan/Polyvinyl Alcohol/Carboxymethylcellulose as an Efficient System for the Release Studies of Metformin Hydrochloride
Authors: Lal Jisha S. , Radha Divya , Karakkattu Subrahmanian Devaky
Published: March 2024

Chitosan (CS) has attracted substantial attention as a sustainable biopolymer in drug delivery applications, in recent years, because of its nontoxicity, biocompatibility, and accessibility. This study develops chitosan/polyvinyl alcohol/carboxymethylcellulose (CS/PVA/CMC) ternary hydrogel with excellent efficacy as a potential delivery vehicle for the antidiabetic drug metformin hydrochloride. The incorporation of carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) in the blend remarkably improves the swelling properties of the hydrogel. Metformin hydrochloride is loaded in the CS/PVA/CMC ternary blend by ultrasonication method. The prepared hydrogel beads are characterized by, Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and X‐ray diffraction (XRD) techniques and confirm the presence of the drug in the beads. The loading and release of metformin from the CS/PVA/CMC hydrogel beads are followed by UV–visible spectroscopy at 233 nm. Different formulations are prepared by varying the compositions of chitosan and carboxymethylcellulose. α‐Glucosidase inhibitory studies reveal that metformin loaded CS/PVA/CMC hydrogel beads show excellent antidiabetic activity. The maximum value of inhibitory activity observed is 89%. Cytotoxic analysis proves that the beads prepared are nontoxic.
Cross‐Linking Interpenetration Polyacrylic Acid‐Starch Porous Sheet Combined with Anthocyanin and Shikonin for Freshness Monitoring
Authors: Xia Bihua , Dong Jialei , Li Jiahao , Hu An , Li Ting , Wang Shibo , Chen Mingqing , Dong Weifu
Published: March 2024

This paper prepares a new kind of anthocyanins/shikonin/polyacrylic‐starch porous sheet with high acid or alkaline gas responsiveness, the high pH sensitivity Lycium ruthenium anthocyanins/shikonin is used as the pigment indicator, and the polyacrylic acid‐starch with cross‐linking interpenetrating and porous structure is used as the carrier, which is prepared by cross‐linking and monomer polymerization methods. Then the microstructure, thermal stability, and pH responsiveness of the anthocyanins/shikonin/polyacrylic‐starch porous sheet are characterized. It is applied to monitor the freshness of pork and shrimp finally.
Calcium Alginate‐Sago Starch Particles for Sustained Drug Release: Preparation and In Vitro Characterization
Authors: Indu Gourav Kumar , Maiti Anindya Kishore , Nayak Amit Kumar , Hasnain Md Saquib
Published: March 2024

In the current work, the efficacy of sago starch as potential biopolymer‐blends with sodium alginate in the designing of sustained drug‐releasing particles for oral delivery is investigated, where calcium alginate‐sago starch particles are prepared via ionic gelation process employing calcium chloride as ionic cross‐linker. These particles showed the aceclofenac loading of 16.94 ± 0.94–18.92 ± 1.17%, aceclofenac encapsulation efficiency of 84.72 ± 1.94–94.59 ± 3.53%, and average particle‐size of 1.11 ± 0.09–1.32 ± 0.11 mm. FESEM analysis indicated spherical‐shaped particles with rough surfaces. FTIR and P‐XRD analyses demonstrated absence of any kinds of interactions in‐between drug‐polymers within particles and the encapsulated aceclofenac present within these polymeric particles is in the amorphous state. All these formulated polymeric particles demonstrated sustained in vitro aceclofenac releasing profile over 12 h and pH‐responsive performance of in vitro swelling. These kinds of sustained drug‐releasing sago starch‐based particles can be advantageous to facilitate reduction of dosing interval and improved oral bioavailability with enhanced patient compliance.
Parameter priority of circular concrete‐filled double‐skin tubular slender beam‐columns under eccentric loading
Authors: Haas Trevor Neville , Amika Akuta Usongo , Koen Johan , Patel Vipulkumar Ishvarbhai
Published: March 2024

This study aimed to determine the parameter priority for the design optimization of circular concrete‐filled double skin tubular (CFDST) slender beam‐columns under eccentric loading. Experimental investigations were conducted on four geometrically distinct CFDST beam‐columns subjected to eccentric loading to analyze their behavioral responses. A finite element (FE) model was developed and calibrated using the experimental data. The FE simulations were performed on seven parameters, including load eccentricity, concrete strength, steel strength, outer tube thickness, inner tube thickness, lateral curvature, and end fixity to determine their respective impacts. By varying each parameter by 10%, the ultimate capacity of the columns was affected by different percentages. The load eccentricity was found to have the highest contribution of 58.7%, followed by fixity (16.0%), steel strength (9.3%), outer tube thickness (8.8%), inner tube thickness (3.5%), concrete strength (2.5%), and lateral curvature (1.2%). These findings establish the priority of the parameters, highlighting the significance of load eccentricity in the optimization of circular CFDST slender beam‐columns under eccentric loading.
Establishing criteria for advancing circular economy practices in the beer industry: A case study in South Vietnam
Authors: Ho Dung Minh , Thach Binh Thanh , Bui Ha Manh
Published: March 2024

This study involves an extensive examination of the brewing industry, specifically focusing on Company A in South Vietnam alongside five other Vietnamese beer companies (B, C, D, E, and F). By employing a multifaceted approach that integrates Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), evaluations of emission loads, and the establishment of criteria for a circular economy model, the study aims to investigate environmental impact, waste generation, energy consumption and potential circular solutions within these breweries. The findings from the survey indicate similarities in the fundamental production processes among the surveyed factories. However, differences were noted in technological advancement and the utilization of raw materials. Challenges in acquiring data, driven by industry competitiveness, highlighted discrepancies in technology investments and the implementation of circular solutions across the breweries. Assessment of emission loads, wastewater and exhaust gas data demonstrated Company A's compliance with environmental standards. Nonetheless, comparative analysis revealed that the water and energy consumption of Company A were 1.5–2.5 times greater, with carbon emissions of 2000–6000 kgCO2eq/m3 product, compared to other breweries. The comprehensive LCA uncovered higher water and energy footprints in Company A, emphasizing potential areas for significant improvements in water usage efficiency and energy conservation. Through the creation of a preliminary set of criteria, subsequent screening, and expert consultation utilizing the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), a set of 21 criteria was established. This system supports the assessment of current brewery statuses and identifies potential pathways for improvement towards a circular economy model. Recommendations include the adoption of industry‐agriculture models, waste recycling, energy efficiency initiatives and the integration of renewable energy for sustainable development in beer production.
A Response to our Critics: Agreements, Clarifications, and Children
Authors: Compton‐Lilly Catherine , Spence Lucy K. , Thomas Paul L. , Decker Scott L.
Published: March 2024

Compton‐Lilly and colleagues respond to recent critiques of their viewpoint article, Stories Grounded in Decades of Research: What We Truly Know about the Teaching of Reading—published in The Reading Teacher. We first respond to specific concerns raised by our critics. We then discuss recent legislation being enacted in statehouses across the United States that does not reflect current research. Finally, we reiterate two preeminent concerns that were not addressed by our critics: (1) instruction must be responsive to readers and (2) teachers must bring a vast range of expertise to competently serve readers who bring multifaceted literate and experiential knowledge to texts. Reiterating concerns raised by other readings scholars, we worry that attending to microdimensions of arguments creates false binaries, obfuscates important areas of agreement, and distracts attention from what truly matters: children.
Advanced numerical simulation techniques in MHD fluid flow analysis using distributed fractional order derivatives and Cattaneo heat flux model
Authors: Khan Mumtaz , Alhowaity Awatif , Imran Mudassar , Hussien Mohamed , Alroobaea Roobaea , Anwar Muhammad Shoaib
Published: March 2024

This study investigates the flow and heat transfer characteristics of a second‐grade fluid over a flat surface with variable heat flux. Utilizing a mathematical model based on distributed order fractional derivatives, we offer a more precise representation of non‐Newtonian fluid behavior. The associated highly nonlinear equations are tackled numerically through an innovative amalgamation of the finite difference scheme and the technique. Our investigation thoroughly evaluates the influence of several critical parameters on the fluid's motion and thermal characteristics. Notably, the magnetic parameter significantly inhibits the fluid's velocity, illustrating the impact of magnetic forces. Additionally, the power law parameter leads to a decrease in both velocity and temperature profiles, highlighting its influence on fluid dynamics. Furthermore, changes in the Reynold number and the second‐grade fluid parameter are observed to cause a substantial increase in skin friction, by approximately 40% to 50%. These simulation results provide valuable insights into the complex interaction between fluid flow and heat transfer characteristics, enhancing our understanding of such systems in industrial applications.
Climate and the Little Ice Age
Authors: D’Arcy Wood Gillen
Published: March 2024

An ever-increasing “natural archive” of historical climate proxy data has allowed for the recent emergence of a new historiography of climate change. This chapter reviews the significance of recent titles in climate history focused specifically on the Little Ice Age – the period of deteriorated global weather conditions from the fourteenth to the nineteenth centuries that witnessed frequent, destabilizing episodes of drought, cold, famine, and disease across both eastern and western hemispheres. Prior to the broad availability of historical climate data this century, academic historians were able to ignore issues of climate and environment within an anthropocentrist framework for historical analysis. The new climate history of the Little Ice Age, by contrast, advocates an improved understanding of climate instability as a key driver of social change at both local and hemispheric scales, in ways that radically revise canonical narratives of the Late Medieval and Early Modern periods. The chapter concludes with consideration of two other new climate change paradigms relevant to current historiography: deep time and the Anthropocene.
The Transition Journey to the Circular Economy by Companies in the Valencian Region’s Tourism Industry
Authors: de-Miguel-Molina Blanca , de-Miguel-Molina María , Miret-Pastor Luis , Silva-Cárdenas María Belén
Published: March 2024

This chapter presents the results of a study undertaken to map the journey taken by tourism companies in their transition to the circular economy. Information was obtained from three focus groups conducted in Alicante, Castellon and Valencia, with eighteen executives from hotels, restaurants and tourist industry suppliers. After carrying out a content analysis with the information obtained from the focus groups, this data was divided into five steps, starting with awareness about transitioning to the circular economy and ending with the reporting of advances obtained after implementing actions based on the nine Rs framework. The chapter includes examples of comments made by participants on each step of their companies’ journey to circularity.
Correlations of C and CP violation in η → π0ℓ+ℓ− and η′ → ηℓ+ℓ−
Authors: Akdag Hakan , Kubis Bastian , Wirzba Andreas
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Based on recent progress in the systematic analysis of C and CP violation in the light-meson sector, we calculate the C-odd transition amplitudes η → π0ℓ+ℓ− and η′ → ηℓ+ℓ−. Focusing on long-distance contributions driven by the lowest-lying hadronic intermediate states, we work out the correlations between these beyond-the-Standard-Model signals and the Dalitz-plot asymmetries in η → π0π+π− and η′ → ηπ+π−, using dispersion theory.
Flux correlators and semiclassics
Authors: Firat Eren , Monin Alexander , Rattazzi Riccardo , Walters Matthew T.
Published: March 2024

Abstract

We consider correlators for the flux of energy and charge in the background of operators with large global U(1) charge in conformal field theory (CFT). It has recently been shown that the corresponding Euclidean correlators generically admit a semiclassical description in terms of the effective field theory (EFT) for a conformal superfluid. We adapt the semiclassical description to Lorentzian observables and compute the leading large charge behavior of the flux correlators in general U(1) symmetric CFTs. We discuss the regime of validity of the large charge EFT for these Lorentzian observables and the subtleties in extending the EFT approach to subleading corrections. We also consider the Wilson-Fisher fixed point in d = 4 − ϵ dimensions, which offers a specific weakly coupled realization of the general setup, where the subleading corrections can be systematically computed without relying on an EFT.
Glymphatic-lymphatic coupling: assessment of the evidence from magnetic resonance imaging of humans
Authors: Ringstad Geir , Eide Per Kristian
Published: March 2024

The discoveries that cerebrospinal fluid participates in metabolic perivascular exchange with the brain and further drains solutes to meningeal lymphatic vessels have sparked a tremendous interest in translating these seminal findings from animals to humans. A potential two-way coupling between the brain extra-vascular compartment and the peripheral immune system has implications that exceed those concerning neurodegenerative diseases, but also imply that the central nervous system has pushed its immunological borders toward the periphery, where cross-talk mediated by cerebrospinal fluid may play a role in a range of neoplastic and immunological diseases. Due to its non-invasive approach, magnetic resonance imaging has typically been the preferred methodology in attempts to image the glymphatic system and meningeal lymphatics in humans. Even if flourishing, the research field is still in its cradle, and interpretations of imaging findings that topographically associate with reports from animals have yet seemed to downplay the presence of previously described anatomical constituents, particularly in the dura. In this brief review, we illuminate these challenges and assess the evidence for a glymphatic-lymphatic coupling. Finally, we provide a new perspective on how human brain and meningeal clearance function may possibly be measured in future.
Crosstalk between purinergic receptor P2Y11 and chemokine receptor CXCR7 is regulated by CXCR4 in human macrophages
Authors: Klaver Dominik , Gander Hubert , Frena Beatrice , Amato Marco , Thurnher Martin
Published: March 2024

P2Y11 is a G protein-coupled ATP receptor that activates IL-1 receptor (IL-1R) in a cyclic AMP dependent manner. In human macrophages, P2Y11/IL-1R crosstalk with CCL20 as a prime target is controlled by phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4), which mediates breakdown of cyclic AMP. Here, we used gene expression analysis to identify activation of CXCR4 and CXCR7 as a hallmark of P2Y11 signaling. We found that PDE4 inhibition with rolipram boosts P2Y11/IL-1R-induced upregulation of CXCR7 expression and CCL20 production in an epidermal growth factor receptor dependent manner. Using an astrocytoma cell line, naturally expressing CXCR7 but lacking CXCR4, P2Y11/IL-1R activation effectively induced and CXCR7 agonist TC14012 enhanced CCL20 production even in the absence of PDE4 inhibition. Moreover, CXCR7 depletion by RNA interference suppressed CCL20 production. In macrophages, the simultaneous activation of P2Y11 and CXCR7 by their respective agonists was sufficient to induce CCL20 production with no need of PDE4 inhibition, as CXCR7 activation increased its own and eliminated CXCR4 expression. Finally, analysis of multiple CCL chemokines in the macrophage secretome revealed that CXCR4 inactivation and CXCR7 activation selectively enhanced P2Y11/IL-1R-mediated secretion of CCL20. Altogether, our data establish CXCR7 as an integral component of the P2Y11/IL-1R-initiated signaling cascade and CXCR4-associated PDE4 as a regulatory checkpoint.
Deubiquitinase UCHL1 promotes angiogenesis and blood–spinal cord barrier function recovery after spinal cord injury by stabilizing Sox17
Authors: Wang Jiaxing , Ji Chengyue , Ye Wu , Rong Yuluo , Ge Xuhui , Wang Zhuanghui , Tang Pengyu , Zhou Zheng , Luo Yongjun , Cai Weihua
Published: March 2024

Improving the function of the blood–spinal cord barrier (BSCB) benefits the functional recovery of mice following spinal cord injury (SCI). The death of endothelial cells and disruption of the BSCB at the injury site contribute to secondary damage, and the ubiquitin–proteasome system is involved in regulating protein function. However, little is known about the regulation of deubiquitinated enzymes in endothelial cells and their effect on BSCB function after SCI. We observed that Sox17 is predominantly localized in endothelial cells and is significantly upregulated after SCI and in LPS-treated brain microvascular endothelial cells. In vitro Sox17 knockdown attenuated endothelial cell proliferation, migration, and tube formation, while in vivo Sox17 knockdown inhibited endothelial regeneration and barrier recovery, leading to poor functional recovery after SCI. Conversely, in vivo overexpression of Sox17 promoted angiogenesis and functional recovery after injury. Additionally, immunoprecipitation-mass spectrometry revealed the interaction between the deubiquitinase UCHL1 and Sox17, which stabilized Sox17 and influenced angiogenesis and BSCB repair following injury. By generating UCHL1 conditional knockout mice and conducting rescue experiments, we further validated that the deubiquitinase UCHL1 promotes angiogenesis and restoration of BSCB function after injury by stabilizing Sox17. Collectively, our findings present a novel therapeutic target for treating SCI by revealing a potential mechanism for endothelial cell regeneration and BSCB repair after SCI.
The 2023 Nobel Prize in Chemistry: Quantum dots
Authors: Wegner K. David , Resch-Genger Ute
Published: March 2024

The 2023 Nobel Prize in Chemistry was awarded to Aleksey I. Ekimov (prize share 1/3), Louis E. Brus (prize share 1/3), and Moungi G. Bawendi (prize share 1/3) for groundbreaking inventions in the field of nanotechnology, i.e., for the discovery and synthesis of semiconductor nanocrystals, also termed quantum dots, that exhibit size-dependent physicochemical properties enabled by quantum size effects. This feature article summarizes the main milestones of the discoveries and developments of quantum dots that paved the road to their versatile applications in solid-state lighting, display technology, energy conversion, medical diagnostics, bioimaging, and image-guided surgery.
Migratory Shorebird Gut Microbes are not Associated with Bivalve Prey in Monsoon Tropical Australia
Authors: Weitzman Chava L. , Tinning Zarah , Day Kimberley A. , Garnett Stephen T. , Christian Keith , Gibb Karen
Published: March 2024

Migratory animals can carry symbionts over long distances. While well-studied for parasite and pathogen transmission, less is known about use of this route by other symbiotic taxa, particularly those non-pathogenic. Here we ask the question of whether gut bacteria can be spread between continents by long-distance bird migration, although gut microbiomes in birds may not be as stable or persistent as those of non-volant animals. We used amplicon sequencing of both bacterial 16S rRNA gene and Vibrio-centric hsp60 gene to determine whether the faecal bacteria of migratory great knots (Calidris tenuirostris) also occur in their main food source in Northern Australia or in nearby sand, comparing samples before and after the birds’ long-distance migration. Our data suggest that there is little connectivity among the bacterial microbiomes, except in the bivalve prey. Our results are consistent with previous studies finding that bird faecal microbiomes were not host-specific and contrast with those showing an influence of diet on bird faecal bacteria. We also found little connectivity among Vibrio spp. However, although faecal sample sizes were small, the dominance of different individual Vibrio spp. suggests that they may have been well-established in knot guts and thus capable of moving with them on migration. We suggest that the physiological impacts of a long-distance migration may have caused shifts in the phyla comprising great knot faecal communities.
Transient ureteral obstruction after mini-percutaneous nephrolithotomy is associated with stone volume and location: results from a single-center, real-life study
Authors: Nizzardo Marco , Zanetti Stefano Paolo , Marmiroli Andrea , Lucignani Gianpaolo , Turetti Matteo , Silvani Carlo , Gadda Franco , Longo Fabrizio , De Lorenzis Elisa , Albo Giancarlo , Salonia Andrea , Montanari Emanuele , Boeri Luca
Published: March 2024

Purpose

To evaluate the rate of and predictors of ureteral obstruction after mini-percutaneous nephrolithotomy (mPCNL) for kidney stones.

Methods

We analyzed data from 263 consecutive patients who underwent mPCNL at a single tertiary referral academic between 01/2016 and 11/2022. Patient’s demographics, stone characteristics, and operative data were collected. A nephrostomy tube was placed as the only exit strategy in each procedure. On postoperative day 2, an antegrade pyelography was performed to assess ureteral canalization. The nephrostomy tube was removed if ureteral canalization was successful. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression models were used to identify factors associated with a lack of ureteral canalization.

Results

Overall, median (IQR) age and stone volume were 56 (47–65) years and 1.7 (0.8–4.2) cm3, respectively. Of 263, 55 (20.9%) patients showed ureteral obstruction during pyelography. Patients without ureteral canalization had larger stone volume (p < 0.001), longer operative time (p < 0.01), and higher rate of stones in the renal pelvis (p < 0.01) than those with normal pyelography. Length of stay was longer (p < 0.01), and postoperative complications (p = 0.03) were more frequent in patients without ureteral canalization. Multivariable logistic regression analysis revealed that stone volume (OR 1.1, p = 0.02) and stone located in the renal pelvis (OR 2.2, p = 0.04) were independent predictors of transient ureteral obstruction, after accounting for operative time.

Conclusion

One out of five patients showed transient ureteral obstruction after mPCNL. Patients with a higher stone burden and with stones in the renal pelvis are at higher risk of inadequate ureteral canalization. Internal drainage might be considered in these cases to avoid potential complications.
The dynamics of the El Niño–Southern Oscillation diversity in the recharge oscillator framework
Authors: Priya Priyamvada , Dommenget Dietmar , McGregor Shayne
Published: March 2024

This study investigates the observed El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) dynamics for the eastern Pacific (EP) and central Pacific (CP) events in reference to the canonical ENSO (T). We use the recharge oscillator (ReOsc) model concept to describe the ENSO phase space and polar coordinate statistics, based on the interaction of sea surface temperature (T) and thermocline depth (h), for the different types of ENSO events. We further look at some important statistical characteristics, such as power spectrum and cross-correlation as essential parameters for understanding the dynamics of ENSO. The results show that the dynamics of the EP and CP events are very different from each other and from the canonical ENSO events. The canonical ENSO (T) events fit closest to the idealised ReOsc model and has the most clearly oscillating ENSO phase space, suggesting it is the most predictable ENSO index. The EP phase space evolution is similar to the canonical ENSO, but the phase transitions are less clear, suggesting less of an oscillatory nature and that the index is more focussed on extreme El Niño and discharge states. The CP phase space, in turn, does not have a clear propagation through all phases and are strongly skewed towards the La Niña state. The interaction between CP and h are much weaker, making the mode less predictable. Wind forced shallow water model simulations show that the CP winds spatial pattern do not force significant h tendencies, strongly reducing the delayed negative feedback, which is essential for the ENSO cycle.
Marked increase in severe neurological disorders after nitrous oxide abuse: a retrospective study in the Greater Paris area
Authors: Dawudi Yachar , Azoyan Loris , Broucker Thomas D. E. , Gendre Thierry , Miloudi Amal , Echaniz-Laguna Andoni , Mazoyer Julie , Zanin Adrien , Kubis Nathalie , Dubessy Anne-Laure , Gorza Lucas , Ben Nasr Haifa , Caré Weniko , d’Izarny-Gargas Thibaut , Formoso Aude , Vilcu Ana-Maria , Bonnan Mickael
Published: March 2024

Background

Recreational nitrous oxide (N2O) use has become more widespread worldwide, leading to an increase in myelopathies and peripheral neuropathies. The aim of this study was to describe clinical and socioeconomical characteristics of severe N2O-induced (NI) neurological disorders (NI-NDs), to determine its incidence in the Greater Paris area and to compare it with that of similar inflammatory neurological disorders.

Methods

We performed a retrospective multicentric cohort study of all adult patients with severe NI-NDs in the neurology and general internal medicine departments of the Greater Paris area from 2018 to 2021. The incidence was compared with that of non-NI-myelitis and Guillain–Barré syndrome (GBS) using a sample of 91,000 hospitalized patients sourced from health insurance data.

Results

Among 181 patients, 25% had myelopathy, 37% had peripheral neuropathy and 38% had mixed disease. Most were aged between 20 and 25 years, lived in socially disadvantaged urban areas, and exhibited high rates of unemployment (37%). The incidence of NI-NDs increased during 2020 and reached a peak mid-2021. The 2021 incidence in 20–25-year-olds was 6.15 [4.72; 8.24] per 100,000 persons for NI-myelopathy and 7.48 [5.59; 9.37] for NI-peripheral neuropathy. This was significantly higher than for non-NI-myelitis (0.35 [0.02; 2.00]) and GBS (2.47 [0.64; 4.30]). The incidence of NI-NDs was two to three times higher in the most socially disadvantaged areas.

Conclusion

The recent increase in recreational N2O use has led to a rise in the incidence of severe NI-NDs, particularly in young adults with low socioeconomic status for whom NI-NDs strongly outweigh similar neurological disorders.
Retrospective evaluation of Penguin Cold Caps for chemotherapy-induced alopecia
Authors: Weaver Dale , Pershing Michelle L. , Golden Bethany , Hammel Laura , Russ Pauline Kefalas , Cripe Mark
Published: March 2024

Background

Scalp cooling is an increasingly recognized non-pharmacologic approach to minimize chemotherapy-induced alopecia (CIA). Several commercially available machine-based and manual scalp cooling systems are available; however, literature reports of effectiveness are highly variable. The purpose of this study was to determine real-world tolerability and subjective effectiveness of a manual cold capping system in minimizing CIA across a variety of patient race and hair types. This study was a single-institution review of outcomes from manual cold capping.

Methods

We identified retrospective cohort of adult patients who presented to discuss cold capping between January 14, 2019, and March 31, 2022. Data collected from medical records included demographics, decision to pursue/continue cold capping, diagnoses, chemotherapy regimens, hair characteristics (length, thickness, coarseness, type), and subjective perception of percentage of hair retained. Those with successful vs. unsuccessful cold capping (≥ 50% vs. < 50% of hair retained) were compared based on the patient-level factors of interest.

Findings

A total of 100 patients initiated cold capping during the study period, and 95% of them completed cold capping. The majority of patients who started cold capping completed it. The median-reported percentage of hair maintained was 75%, and 82/89 (92.1% of patients) had favorable results, defined as ≥ 50% of hair retained. The only patient-level factor associated with favorable response was chemotherapy regimen, with fewer patients receiving doxorubicin-containing regimens having successful hair retention compared to other chemotherapy types (71.4% successful results vs. 95.7% for those receiving paclitaxel-containing regimens and 96.6% for those receiving docetaxel-containing regimens (p = 0.018). There was no difference in success based on patient race/ethnicity or hair characteristics.

Interpretation

The overall effectiveness (92.1%) in this study is consistent to higher than many literature reports. One possible reason for the high success in our cohort is compliance with cold capping protocols, meaning applying the cap in the appropriate manner and wearing the cap for the prescribed durations, which may impact effectiveness.
Implementing a cancer survivorship seminar course to non-healthcare professional undergraduate students
Authors: Chan Alexandre
Published: March 2024

Background

At University of California, Irvine (UCI), a seminar course focused on cancer survivorship was developed and offered to non-healthcare professional undergraduate students. Utilizing the knowledge, attitude, and perception (KAP) framework, this study was designed to examine the impact on students who have taken this course, and to clarify the value of this course for undergraduate students.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional survey. Undergraduate students enrolled in the Life After Cancer Freshmen Seminar course (Uni Stu 3) at UCI between 2021 and 2023 were invited to participate. The survey consisted of 4 main sections: (1) demographics, (2) knowledge of cancer survivorship, (3) attitude towards cancer survivorship, and (4) perception and awareness of cancer survivorship. The survey was administered prior to the implementation of the course, and the same survey was administered at the end of the course.

Results

A total of 33 students completed the pre-implementation survey and 30 students completed the post-implementation survey. Comparing pre- and post-course implementation, there was an increase of perception and awareness of (i) resources and guidelines for cancer survivors (pre, 9.1% vs. post, 36.7%), (ii) mental health complications among cancer survivors (pre, 36.4% vs. post, 56.7%), (iii) benefits of cancer survivorship care (pre, 15.2% vs. post, 40%), latest research in cancer survivorship (pre, 0% vs. post, 23.3%), and (iv) tailoring survivors’ needs according to their age groups (pre, 24.2% vs. post, 66.7%). Knowledge and attitude towards caring of cancer survivors were similar comparing pre- and post-course implementation.

Conclusion

In an undergraduate seminar course focused on cancer survivorship, we observed an improvement of non-healthcare students’ perception and awareness of cancer survivorship-related issues, advocating the value on introducing highly prevalent cancer survivorship topics early to both undergraduate STEM and non-STEM students.
Rock characteristics and reservoir properties of Upper Carboniferous (Stephanian A–B) tight siliciclastic rocks from the Saar–Nahe basin (SW Germany)
Authors: Quandt Dennis , Busch Benjamin , Greve Jonas , Hilgers Christoph
Published: March 2024

The environmental consequences of mine flooding in the Saar hard coal district, post-mining re-use concepts in the course of the energy transition, and the potential of coalbed methane production require an understanding of subsurface rock properties on the microscale. In this study, mineralogy, microtexture, microstructure, porosity, permeability, and geochemistry of an Upper Carboniferous (Stephanian A–B) drill core recovered in the Saar–Nahe basin are quantified. Based on these data, the diagenetic history and reservoir quality are analyzed regarding mine flooding and coalbed methane potential. The feldspar-poor and igneous rock fragment-free siliciclastic rock succession shows multiple fining upward sequences deposited in a fluvial environment during the pre-volcanic syn-rift phase of the Variscan intramontane Saar–Nahe basin. Intercalated small-scale coarsening upward sequences are related to the floodplain where near-surface soft-sediment deformation and paleosol formation took place. Porosity (< 7%) of the tight siliciclastic rocks is mainly controlled by an interplay of authigenic microporous kaolinite, dissolution porosity, and quartz cement, whereas permeability (< 0.05 mD) shows no systematic variation with petrography. During burial, quartz cements preserved porosity by stabilizing the granular framework against mechanical compaction, while phyllosilicates were ductilely deformed reducing reservoir quality. Relative phyllosilicates and quartz contents and mean grain size are reliably inferred from SiO2/Al2O3 ratios (1.8–28.8), Ba (0.0108–0.0653 wt%), Rb (0.0024–0.0181 wt%), and Sr (0.0013–0.0086 wt%) concentrations measured with a portable x-ray fluorescence analyzer. Regarding coalbed methane production and mine flooding, sealing of cleats and heterogeneous subsurface rock properties due to dynamically changing depositional settings during the Late Carboniferous need to be considered.

Graphical abstract
Creep Versus Consolidation in Tunnelling Through Squeezing Ground—Part A: Basic Time Effects
Authors: Leone Thomas , Nordas Alexandros N. , Anagnostou Georgios
Published: March 2024

Although squeezing ground may undergo rapid convergences following tunnel excavation, its behaviour is often markedly time dependent due to creep or consolidation. The effects of creep and consolidation on shield tunnelling are comparatively evaluated in two companion papers, with the aim of demonstrating their qualitative similarities and distinctive features. The present, first paper investigates the basic time effects, placing focus on the time development of ground deformations and the complex interaction between ground, tunnel boring machine (TBM) and tunnel support during excavation and during construction standstills. The presented numerical simulations indicate several qualitative similarities between the two mechanisms of time dependency, in respect of the time development of ground deformations, the counter-intuitive behaviour of increasing shield loading with increasing rate of advance under certain conditions, as well as the thoroughly adverse effect of the additional time-dependent deformations taking place during construction standstills on the shield loading. However, they also underscore two prominent differences resulting from the fundamentally different nature of creep (a purely mechanical rheological process) and consolidation (a coupled hydromechanical process): first, the consistently more extensive plastic yielding in consolidating ground, which is partially associated with the seepage forces exerted by the pore water on the solid rock constituents. Second, the role of seepage forces as a potential destabilising agent, particularly for the tunnel face, which does not happen in the case of creep and may be critical for shield and cutterhead jamming. Building upon these investigations, the companion paper compares creep and consolidation with respect to the transferability of experiences about the required thrust force to tunnels of different diameter or to adjacent tunnels.
Association between enthesitis/dactylitis resolution and patient-reported outcomes in guselkumab-treated patients with psoriatic arthritis
Authors: Rahman Proton , McInnes Iain B. , Deodhar Atul , Schett Georg , Mease Phillip J. , Shawi May , Cua Daniel J. , Sherlock Jonathan P. , Kollmeier Alexa P. , Xu Xie L. , Sheng Shihong , Ritchlin Christopher T. , McGonagle Dennis
Published: March 2024

Objectives

To evaluate the association between enthesitis resolution (ER) and dactylitis resolution (DR) and meaningful improvements in patient-reported outcomes (PROs) among biologic-naïve patients with PsA receiving guselkumab in the DISCOVER-2 study.

Methods

Enthesitis and dactylitis, characteristic lesions of PsA, were evaluated by independent assessors using the Leeds Enthesitis Index (range, 0–6) and Dactylitis Severity Score (range, 0–60). Proportions of patients with ER or DR (score = 0) among those with score > 0 at baseline were determined at weeks 24, 52, and 100. PROs included: fatigue (Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy-Fatigue [FACIT-Fatigue]), pain (0–100 visual analog scale), physical function (Health Assessment Questionnaire-Disability Index [HAQ-DI]), and health-related quality of life (36-item Short-Form Health Survey physical/mental component summary [SF-36 PCS/MCS]). Meaningful responses were defined as: improvements of ≥ 4 for FACIT-Fatigue, ≥ 0.35 for HAQ-DI, and ≥ 5 for SF-36 PCS/MCS and absolute scores of ≤ 15 for minimal pain and ≤ 0.5 for normalized HAQ-DI. Associations between ER/DR status and PRO response status were tested using a Chi-square test.

Results

Guselkumab-treated patients with ER were more likely than those without ER to achieve minimal pain (p < 0.001), normalized HAQ-DI (p < 0.001), and PCS response (p < 0.05) at weeks 24, 52, and 100. Patients with DR were more likely than those without DR to achieve FACIT-Fatigue response at week 24 and week 52 (both p ≤ 0.01) and minimal pain at week 24 and normalized HAQ-DI at week 52 (both p ≤ 0.03).

Conclusion

In biologic-naïve patients with active PsA treated with guselkumab, achieving ER or DR was associated with durable improvements in selected PROs, including those of high importance to patients.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov (https://clinicaltrials.gov) NCT03158285; Registered: May 16, 2017.

Key Points

• At week 100, 65% and 76% of guselkumab-treated patients achieved enthesitis and dactylitis resolution (ER/DR).• Achieving ER was associated with achieving DR and vice versa through the end of study.• Achieving ER or DR was associated with durable and meaningful improvements in selected patient-reported outcomes.