bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Non‐differential gut microbes contribute to hypertension and its severity through co‐abundances: A multi‐regional prospective cohort study
Authors: Liu Lu , Zhou Qianyi , Xu Tianbao , Deng Qiufeng , Sun Yuhao , Fu Jingxiang , Chen Muxuan , Chen Xiaojiao , Ma Zhenchao , Dong Quanbin , Ma Beining , Jiao Yuwen , Zhou Yan , Wu Tingting , Zou Huayiyang , Shi Jing , Wang Yifeng , Sheng Yanhui , Tang Liming , Zheng Chao , Wu Wei , Ma Wenjun , Sun Wei , Hu Shixian , Zhou Hongwei , He Yan , Kong Xiangqing , Chen Lianmin
Published: January 2025

Microbial dysbiosis, characterized by an imbalanced microbial community structure and function, has been linked to hypertension. While prior research has primarily focused on differential abundances, our study highlights the role of non‐differential microbes in hypertension. We propose that non‐differential microbes contribute to hypertension through their ecological interactions, as defined by co‐abundances (pairs of microbes exhibiting correlated abundance patterns). Using gut microbiome data from the Guangdong Gut Microbiome Project, which includes 2355 hypertensive and 4644 non‐hypertensive participants across 14 regions, we identified replicable hypertension‐related microbial interactions. Notably, most co‐abundances involved non‐differential microbes, which were found to correlate with both hypertension severity and hypertension‐related microbial metabolic pathways. These findings emphasize the importance of microbial interactions in hypertension pathogenesis and propose a novel perspective for microbiome‐based therapeutic strategies.
Identifying the Sources of the Slowdown in Growth: Demand Versus Supply
Authors: Maffei‐Faccioli Nicolò
Published: January 2025

Long‐run GDP growth has declined in the United States over the past two decades. Two competing views take centre stage in accounting for this slowdown: the demand‐side view and the supply‐side view. I empirically quantify their relative importance in a Bayesian SVAR with common trends identified using sign restrictions. While supply‐side factors were the main driver of long‐run GDP growth prior to 2000, demand‐side factors explain half of its slowdown afterwards. The findings highlight the importance of demand‐side factors as drivers of long‐run growth.
Iron Chelation Prevents Age‐Related Skeletal Muscle Sarcopenia in Klotho Gene Mutant Mice, a Genetic Model of Aging
Authors: Bose Chhanda , Megyesi Judit , Karaduta Oleg , Singh Sharda P. , Swaminathan Sundararaman , Shah Sudhir V.
Published: January 2025

Background

A decline in skeletal muscle mass and function known as skeletal muscle sarcopenia is an inevitable consequence of aging. Sarcopenia is a major cause of decreased muscle strength, physical frailty and increased muscle fatigability, contributing significantly to an increased risk of physical disability and functional dependence among the elderly. There remains a significant need for a novel therapy that can improve sarcopenia and related problems in aging. Iron accumulation, especially catalytic iron (labile iron) through increased oxidative stress, could be one of the contributing factors to sarcopenia. Our study aimed to examine the effect of an iron chelator on age‐related sarcopenia in mice.

Methods

We investigated the effect of iron chelation (deferiprone, DFP) in sarcopenia, using mice with klotho deficiency (kl/kl), an established mouse model for aging. Four weeks old Klotho −/− male mice were treated with 25 mg/kg body weight of iron chelator deferiprone in drinking water for 8–14 weeks (n = 12/group, treated and untreated). At the end of the study, gastrocnemius, quadriceps and bicep muscles were dissected and used for western blot and immunohistochemistry analysis, histopathology and iron staining. Serum total iron, catalytic iron and cytokine ELISAs were performed with established methods.

Results

Treatment with DFP significantly reduced loss of muscle mass in gastrocnemius and quadriceps muscles (p < 0.0001). Total and catalytic iron content of serum and iron in muscles were significantly (both p < 0.0001) lower in the treated animals. The inhibitory factor of myogenesis, the myostatin protein in gastrocnemius muscles (p = 0.019) and serum (p = 0.003) were downregulated after 8 weeks of therapy accompanied by an increased in muscle contractile protein myosin heavy chain (~2.9 folds, p = 0.0004). Treatment decreased inflammation (serum IL6 and TNFα) (p < 0.0001, p = 0.005), respectively, and elevated insulin‐like growth factor levels (p = 0.472). This was associated with reduced DNA damage and reduced 8‐hydroxy 2 deoxyguanosine in muscle and HO‐1 protein (p < 0.001, p = 079), respectively. Significant weight loss (p < 0.001) and decreased water intake (p = 0.012) were observed in untreated mice compared to treatment group. Kaplan–Meier survival curves show the median life span of treated mice was 108 days as compared to 63 days for untreated mice (p = 0.0002).

Conclusions

In summary, our research findings indicate that deferiprone reduced age‐related sarcopenia in the muscles of Klotho−/− mice. Our finding suggests chelation of excess iron could be an effective therapy to counter sarcopenia. However, additional studies are needed to evaluate and determine the efficacy in humans.
Factors associated with hypertonic dehydration in older Japanese outpatients
Authors: Kinoshita Azuna , Yonemitsu Takafumi , Miyai Nobuyuki , Yonemitsu Akira
Published: January 2025

Background

Hypertonic dehydration is common among older adults and is associated with increased mortality and the incidence of several diseases, such as renal failure and cardiovascular complications. Herein, we aimed to statistically identify risk factors for hypertonic dehydration in older adults in Japan.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study included outpatients aged ≥65 years who visited an internal medicine clinic between March and November 2021. Hypertonic dehydration was determined using serum osmolality (≥300 mOsm/kg) calculated from blood sodium, urea nitrogen, and glucose levels. The body composition of each participant was estimated using bioelectrical impedance analysis. The participants were instructed to record their fluid intake for two consecutive days. We conducted multivariate analysis to examine factors associated with hypertonic dehydration.

Results

In total, 104 participants (male: 32.7%, mean: 76.6 years) were enrolled. The prevalence of hypertonic dehydration among study participants was 30.8%. After adjusting for potential confounding factors, the daily fluid intake per body weight, body mass index, body fat percentage, diabetes mellitus, and number of medications were significantly associated with hypertonic dehydration. Odds ratios for hypertonic dehydration were 5.47 for daily fluid intake per body weight <20 mL/kg/day (vs. ≥30 mL/kg/day), 2.55 for body mass index ≥25 kg/m2 (vs. <25 kg/m2), and 3.66 for number of medications ≥10 (vs. <6). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.712 (95% confidence interval, 0.606–0.817; p = 0.001).

Conclusion

Decreased fluid intake, obesity, diabetes mellitus, and polypharmacy were independently associated with hypertonic dehydration in older Japanese outpatients.
Can Digital Rectal Examination Identify the Subtype of Dyssynergic Disorders as Well as High Resolution Anorectal Manometry?
Authors: Onana Ndong Philippe , Baumstarck Karine , Vitton Véronique
Published: January 2025

Background and Aims

Diagnosing dyssynergic disorders (DD) often requires 3D high‐definition anorectal manometry (3D‐HRAM), raising concerns about cost, availability, and delayed referral. Digital rectal examination (DRE) offers a reliable, cost‐effective alternative for DD diagnosis. This study aimed to assess DRE's capability to classify DD patients into the four subtypes outlined in Rao's classification.

Methods

This retrospective monocentric study involved patients diagnosed with DD through 3D‐HRAM. After initial 3D‐HRAM performed by one physician, patients underwent a clinical examination, including DRE by a second senior clinician blinded to DD subtypes. Statistical tests measured the correlation between DRE and HRAM in classifying the four DD subtypes.

Results

The study included 200 patients, revealing commendable overall agreement between DRE and 3D‐HRAM (Kappa = 0.658). For subtype diagnosis, correlation was substantial for Subtypes I, II, and IV (0.679, 0.741, 0.649, respectively) and moderate for Subtype III (Kappa = 0.325).

Conclusion

DRE demonstrates satisfactory performance in diagnosing the four subtypes of DD. Enhanced training in DRE, emphasizing functional information, has the potential to reduce reliance on additional tests, thereby mitigating economic and organizational impacts.
Neurological and Cognitive Effects of Hypothyroidism in Patients With Epilepsy: A Study on Anti‐Seizure Medicines Therapy
Authors: Molodozhnikova Natalia , Prokhorova Svetlana , Monov Dimitar , Lilyanov Nikolay
Published: January 2025

The primary objective of this study was to examine neurological disorders and cognitive impairments in patients with secondary hypothyroidism and epilepsy undergoing treatment with antiepileptic medications. The study included 184 patients divided into three groups: Group 1 (subclinical hypothyroidism, n = 60), Group 2 (manifest hypothyroidism, n = 64), and Group 3 (control, n = 60). Patients in Group 2 received levothyroxine therapy (initial dose of 25 μg/day, titrated to 50–100 μg/day), while Groups 1 and 2 were treated with anti‐seizure medications (valproic acid, 40 mg/kg/day). Neurological symptoms, including Babinski's reflex abnormalities (χ2 = 8.15, p = 0.017) and sensory disturbances (χ2 = 12.44, p = 0.005), were significantly more frequent in Group 2 than in Group 1. Cognitive test scores were significantly lower in Group 2 compared to Group 3 across all domains (F(2, 181) = 6.55, p = 0.002 for MMSE; F(2, 181) = 4.70, p = 0.010 for FAB; and F(2, 181) = 5.75, p = 0.006 for CDT), with Group 1 showing intermediate results. Regression analysis identified neurodegenerative disease risk (β = 0.34, CI: 0.20–0.48, p < 0.001), anemia (β = 0.32, CI: 0.15–0.49, p = 0.001), and prolonged stress (β = 0.26, CI: 0.12–0.40, p = 0.002) as significant predictors of cognitive decline, while higher education was protective (β = −0.28, CI: −0.42 to −0.14, p = 0.003). An inverse relationship was observed between TSH levels and cognitive scores (r = −0.55, p < 0.001).
Stability comparison of prasugrel tablets unit‐dose packaged versus maintained in the manufacturer container over 90 days
Authors: Burchette Jessica , Lassiter Molly , Brown Stacy
Published: January 2025

Background

Unit‐dosing medications can improve time to drug administration and patient safety in inpatient settings. No available information supports the practice of unit‐dosing for prasugrel.

Aim

The stability of unit‐dosed prasugrel tablets was evaluated against tablets maintained in the manufacturer container.

Method

Three lots of 10 mg prasugrel tablets were packaged as individual unit‐doses and stored at room temperature. Tablets were analysed for prasugrel concentration over a 90‐day period and compared against control tablets retained in the manufacturer's container. Prasugrel was quantified using a previously validated stability‐indicating high‐performance liquid chromatography method with ultraviolet detection. Experimental lots were monitored for >10% loss of potency. A non‐linear one‐phase decay curve was used to describe drug potency changes in experimental versus control tablets. Ethics approval was not required for this research article as it was a stability study and did not involve human subjects.

Results

Average potency in all groups remained above 90% for the duration of the study; however, some individual experimental samples dropped below 90% at 7 days. Control tablets did not show a statistically significant potency change until 90 days. Modelling data indicated the ending average potencies in the experimental versus control tablets were 9.083 mg and 9.736 mg, respectively.

Conclusion

Unit‐dosing 10 mg prasugrel tablets has a negative effect on potency, which was most pronounced by day 7. The average potency remained above 9.00 mg over the 90‐day period. Conservative interpretation of these data may allow institutions to unit‐dose prasugrel tablets and discard after 72 h, when individual data points showed <90% potency. The decision to unit‐dose prasugrel must consider several factors surrounding patient care and individual institutional standards.
Organizational Ambidexterity and Born Global Firms' Post‐Internationalization Growth. A Multi‐Case Study From the Agri‐Food Sector
Authors: Reyes‐Parga María , Rialp‐Criado Àlex , Gutierrez‐Rincon Viviana
Published: January 2025

This study investigates the influence of Organizational Ambidexterity (OA) on the growth of Born Global Firms (BGFs) post‐internationalization within the agri‐food sector. Employing a multi‐case analysis of 14 Latin American firms, we found that ambidextrous strategies not only enhance international strategic agility and market engagement but also facilitate risk diversification. We delineated seven distinct growth pathways: resilience‐driven innovation, innovation/expansion loop, customization, quality, ethical branding, diversification, and ambidextrous networking. Each pathway illustrates unique methods through which BGFs harness exploration and exploitation to drive sustainable growth. This research enriches the dynamic capabilities framework and international entrepreneurship theory, offering actionable insights for managing dual strategic focuses and underlining the role of supportive local policies.
Effects of grape seed proanthocyanidin on emulsifying capacity of soy protein isolate in extrusion field and its underlying mechanism
Authors: Yu Xiaoshuai , Wang Zhenguo , Duan Yumin , Wang Kexin , Huo Jinjie , Wang Lishuang , Ma Xiaoqi , Wang Peng , Xiao Zhigang
Published: January 2025

Background

Soy protein isolate (SPI) has poor emulsifying ability because of its low molecular flexibility and compact structure, limiting its application in extruded protein‐based foods. Extrusion technology has emerged as a promising way to alter the structural properties of proteins. Therefore, the impacts of grape seed proanthocyanidin (GSP) on structural and emulsifying characteristics of SPI in extrusion field were explored in this study.

Results

After extrusion treatment, the molecular chains of SPI were unfolded. In comparison with extruded SPI, the interaction with GSP led to a rightward shift in particle size distribution and an enhancement in zeta potential values of the protein. As GSP concentration increased from 20 to 80 g kg−1, the free sulfhydryl content of SPI was reduced by 4.17%, 25%, 29.24% and 35.85% compared with that of extruded SPI. The addition of GSP altered the secondary structure of SPI and enhanced the microenvironment polarity. Meanwhile, SDS‐PAGE results indicated that the protein presented lower molecular weight with the introduction of GSP. Compared with extruded SPI, the supplementation with GSP increased the molecular flexibility while it decreased the surface hydrophobicity of SPI. Correlation analyses demonstrated that these structural changes induced an improvement in emulsifying activity and emulsion stability of SPI. GSP mainly binds to SPI through hydrogen bonds and hydrophobic interactions under the extrusion environment.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated that GSP is a potential modifier, which can be applied to improve the emulsifying capacity of extruded SPI‐based foods. © 2025 Society of Chemical Industry.
Inhibition potential of n‐hexadecanoic and oleic acids from edible insects against α‐glucosidase, α‐amylase, tyrosinase, and acetylcholinesterase: in vitro and in silico studies
Authors: Wechakorn Kanokorn , Payaka Apirak , Masoongnoen Jintana , Wattanalaorsomboon Sukrit , Sansenya Sompong
Published: January 2025

BACKGROUND

Edible insects are used for consumption and traditional medicine due to their rich bioactive compounds. This study examined the bioactive compounds and inhibitory effects of crude extracts from Bombyx mori and Omphisa fuscidentalis on α‐glucosidase, α‐amylase, acetylcholinesterase (AChE), and tyrosinase. Fatty acids, including n‐hexadecanoic acid and oleic acid, were identified in the extracts and evaluated for their inhibitory potential against the enzymes in vitro and in silico.

RESULTS

The total phenolic content of the edible insect extracts correlated with enzyme inhibitory activity. The quercetin and kaempferol content of B. mori ethyl acetate (EtOAc) extract was also closely related to α‐amylase inhibitory activity. The EtOAc and hexane extracts of B. mori showed similar inhibition potential to acarbose and tacrine against α‐amylase and AChE, respectively. The hexane extract of O. fuscidentalis exhibited comparable tyrosinase inhibitory activity to kojic acid. n‐Hexadecanoic acid and oleic acid were the predominant bioactive compounds in all of the extracts. A kinetic study revealed that n‐hexadecanoic acid acted as a mixed‐type inhibitor against α‐amylase, similar to acarbose, whereas oleic acid showed non‐competitive inhibition against AChE, unlike tacrine. Docking studies suggested that these fatty acids bind to the active sites of α‐amylase and AChE.

CONCLUSION

The findings suggest that n‐hexadecanoic acid and oleic acid from edible insects could be potential candidates for treating diabetes mellitus and Alzheimer's disease. An animal model might be used for further examination to confirm these findings. © 2025 Society of Chemical Industry.
Thermal Management in AlGaAs‐On‐Insulator Microresonators: Enabling and Extending Soliton Comb Generation
Authors: Zhao Yanjing , Ye Chaochao , Liu Yang , Zhou Yueguang , Yvind Kresten , Pu Minhao
Published: January 2025

Dissipative Kerr solitons offer a promising approach for integrated frequency comb sources. Although aluminum gallium arsenide (AlGaAs) exhibits ultrahigh nonlinearity, its strong thermo‐optic effect raises significant challenges for stable soliton generation. Triggerring solitons necessitates either cryogenic cooling or resonator engineering, imposing stringent requirements on operational environments, comb spacing, and bandwidth. In this work, thermal management in AlGaAs‐on‐insulator microresonators is addressed using an auxiliary laser. This approach effectively suppresses the adverse thermal resonance shifts, thus enabling room‐temperature soliton comb generation. Simultaneously, the residual thermal effects can be leveraged to expand the soliton existence range up to 37 GHz without active feedback. The scheme imposes no limitations on resonator parameters, facilitating the observation of near‐zero‐dispersion solitons. This broadens the exploration horizons on the AlGaAsOI platform. The extended soliton existence range ensures a stable and robust soliton operation, which is crucial for fully exploiting the ultra‐high effective nonlinearity and high optical quality factors exhibited by this platform. This advancement is poised to accelerate the practical deployment of AlGaAs frequency comb sources.
Normal forms and Tyurin degenerations of K3 surfaces polarized by a rank 18 lattice
Authors: Doran Charles F. , Prebble Joseph , Thompson Alan
Published: January 2025

We study projective Type II degenerations of K3 surfaces polarized by a certain rank 18 lattice, where the central fiber consists of a pair of rational surfaces glued along a smooth elliptic curve. Given such a degeneration, one may construct other degenerations of the same kind by flopping curves on the central fiber, but the degenerations obtained from this process are not usually projective. We construct a series of examples which are all projective and which are all related by flopping single curves from one component of the central fiber to the other. Moreover, we show that this list is complete, in the sense that no other flops are possible. The components of the central fibers obtained include weak del Pezzo surfaces of all possible degrees. This shows that projectivity need not impose any meaningful constraints on the surfaces that can arise as components in Type II degenerations.
Improving Molecular Design with Direct Inverse Analysis of QSAR/QSPR Model
Authors: Shino Yuto , Kaneko Hiromasa
Published: January 2025

Recent advances in machine learning have significantly impacted molecular design, notably the molecular generation method combining the chemical variational autoencoder (VAE) with Gaussian mixture regression (GMR). In this method, a mathematical model is constructed with X as the latent variable of the molecule and Y as the target properties and activities. Through direct inverse analysis of this model, it is possible to generate molecules with the desired target properties. However, this approach outputs many strings that do not follow the simplified molecular input line entry system grammar and generates unrealistic chemical structures in which the properties and activity do not satisfy the target values. In this study, we focus on hierarchical VAE using molecular graphs to address these issues. We confirm that the combination of hierarchical VAE and GMR does not generate invalid outputs and returns molecules that simultaneously satisfy multiple target values. Moreover, we use this method to identify several molecules that are predicted to exhibit activity against drug targets.
A Trace C2H2 Detection Based on Near‐Infrared Dual‐Comb Spectroscopy
Authors: Rong Shuangquan , Sun Xiaocong , Yang Yuqi , Zhou Yueting , Gong Ting , Hu Mengpeng , Wang Qiang , Qiu Xuanbing , Li Chuanliang
Published: January 2025

To achieve low‐concentration measurement using near‐infrared dual‐comb spectroscopy (DCS), this study presents a trace C2H2 detection using near‐infrared DCS. A multi‐pass gas cell is employed to extend the optical path length, improving the sensor's sensitivity. Signal post‐processing via interpolation method is applied to reduce noise and achieve a flatter dual‐comb. The sensor's sensitivity and transient characteristics are evaluated by selecting absorption lines at 6526.53, 6529.17, and 6531.78 cm−1, with the experimental profile being well‐fitted by a Voigt function. The stability of the system is confirmed with a C2H2 concentration of 200 ppm over a 2.5 h observation period, showing a stability better than 2.305 × 10−2. Allan variance analysis indicates an optimal integration time of 597 s, yielding a minimum detection limit of 6.15 × 10−4 for absorbance and 350 ppb for concentration. Additionally, the detection of nine absorption lines demonstrates the multi‐peak measurement capability, with deviations ranging from 0.059% to 12.496%.
Characterization and Compensation of Nonideal Effects of Modulation Functions in Time‐Modulated Array for Direction‐of‐Arrival Extraction
Authors: Kim Geon U , Kim Jeong Phill
Published: January 2025

This article investigates nonidealities of the time modulation function that may affect the measurement accuracy when extracting the direction of arrival (DOA) using the time‐modulated array. The types of nonidealities are identified and the fundamental and harmonic Fourier coefficients for each type are calculated theoretically. The measurement DOA error is calculated using these Fourier coefficients, and the allowable bounds of the nonideal parameters guaranteeing the confidence region of the error are proposed. Furthermore, a two‐step measurement procedure is proposed to reduce these errors. For a systematic reduction of the measurement errors, a method for characterizing and compensating the nonidealities is investigated. To verify the validity of the proposed theory and measurement method, experiments are conducted to compare the results with and without calibration and compensation.
Generation of Dark Pulses in Mode‐Locked Erbium‐Doped Fiber Ring Laser Operating in L‐Band Region Using Sc2O3 Absorber
Authors: Ahmeed Mahmoud M. , Ahmad B. A. , Supian Latifah Sarah , Diblawe Abdulkadir Mukhtar , Harun Sulaiman Wadi
Published: January 2025

By incorporating scandium oxide (Sc2O3) powder into a PVA film, a Sc2O3 saturable absorber (SA) was successfully developed, boasting a modulation depth of 25%. When integrated into a ring erbium‐doped fiber laser, the Sc2O3‐SA facilitated the production of mode‐locked dark pulses featuring multi‐wavelength emission, leveraging its saturable absorbing ability along with the nonlinear properties inherent in the Sc2O3 thin film and the long erbium‐doped fiber. Mode‐locking operation was achieved within a pumping range of 209.3–239.8 mW, resulting in a peak pulse energy of 0.71 nJ. Operating at 1597.8 nm, the mode‐locked laser demonstrated a repetition rate of 10.42 MHz and a pulse width of 23 ns. Domain‐wall dark pulse operation was demonstrated in the L‐band region, achieving a relative stability with a signal‐to‐noise ratio of 55.6 dB, utilizing a Sc2O3 thin film absorber and an 8‐meter‐long active fiber. These findings underscore the promising potential of Sc2O3 to be used in pulsed laser systems, particularly due to its exceptional nonlinear optical properties.
Institutional experience with implanted cardiac device risk level assessment: Comparing calculation and measurement
Authors: Gardner Stephen J. , Verdecchia Kyle , Miller Brett M. , Smith Chadd E. , Doemer Anthony , Feldman Aharon , Siddiqui Farzan , Movsas Benjamin , Thind Kundan
Published: January 2025

Background

The use of in‐vivo dosimetry is a long‐standing but also labor‐intensive component of risk‐level assessment for patients with implanted devices. A calculation‐only approach, using treatment planning system (TPS)‐calculated doses along with imaging doses estimates when relevant, has the potential to streamline the physics workflow without negatively impacting patient safety.

Purpose

To evaluate the feasibility of using a calculation‐only approach for risk level assessment for patients with implanted electronic medical devices.

Methods

A total of 86 patients were included in this retrospective study. For each patient, in‐vivo dosimetry measurements using optically stimulated luminescent dosimeter (OSLD) were compared to calculated doses (based on TPS calculated doses and an estimate of imaging doses when relevant). The comparison of OSLD doses and estimated predicted doses was structured in the following manner: (1) direct comparison of both absolute dose difference and percent difference for measured and calculated doses, (2) risk level assessment comparison using measured and estimated doses, and (3) sensitivity and positive predictive value assessment of each method for TG‐203 risk level assessment.

Results

For all cases, the calculation‐based approach yielded a risk level that was equivalent to or more conservative than the risk level from OSLD measurement. For 79 of 86 patients (91.9%), the calculated and measured doses provided the same risk level. For 7 of 86 patients (8.1%), the calculated dose yielded the more conservative risk level. The calculation‐based dose estimate provided a sensitivity of 1.00 with a positive predictive value of 0.92.

Conclusions

The use of a calculation‐only approach has the potential to reduce workload while maintaining the efficacy of risk‐level assessment for patients with implanted devices.
An Improved Park‐Paulino‐Roesler (PPR) Cohesive Model Considering Rate‐Dependent Characteristics and Frictional Behavior of Brittle Materials
Authors: Yu Jiang , Wang Tingting , Liu Kai , Tang Chun'an
Published: January 2025

To characterize the rate‐dependency and frictional behavior of quasi‐brittle interface material, a coupling rate‐dependent and friction interface model improved from the Park‐Paulino‐Roesler (PPR) cohesive model, is proposed and validated in this paper. Based on the potential function, this novel coupling model forms the basic relationship of traction‐displacement within the interfaces, in which rate effect and friction behavior are considered by constructing a rate‐sensitive item and smooth friction term, respectively. Specifically, governing equations for typical mode I and mode II crack formation, as well as for normal and tangential directions, are established, and the model includes a complete unloading/reloading mode for the complex loading situations. To validate this model, the 3D simplified shear test of the anchor rod and mortar block model and a three‐point bend test of the composite concrete‐FRP beam with different loading rates are established to verify the engineering availability, considering different loading rates and friction coefficients. The results show that shear and tensile behaviors of brittle material in numerical models and laboratory tests are similar in the fracture initiation and propagation characteristics. The proposed model can reflect not only the elastic, softening, and residual stages, but also the strength rate‐related effects and friction effects of interface materials. This provides a comprehensive solution for describing the complex mechanical behavior of quasi‐brittle materials subjected to tensile and shear loads.
Granular Thermodynamic Migration Model Suitable for High‐Alkalinity Red Mud Filtrates and Test Verification
Authors: Bai Bing , Wu Haiyan , Nie Qingke , Liu Jingjing , Jia Xiangxin
Published: January 2025

A theoretical model of the migration process of high‐alkalinity red mud particles in porous media was derived from granular thermodynamics, complying with the complementary motion process of two‐phase flows (i.e., hydroxide ions and red mud powder). From the perspective of energy dissipation provoked by particle migration and molecular thermal motion, a migration model of hydroxide ions and suspended particles under mixed conditions was established. This model naturally considers the complex adsorption/desorption process between hydroxide ions (or red mud particles) and a porous medium solid matrix, as well as between hydroxide ions and red mud particles. Moreover, the model reveals the dynamic process and deposition effect of suspended powder under multiphase interactions during temporal and spatial variations. The migration progression of suspended substances in the process of transient injection of red mud filtrate with different pH values and the continuous change in red mud particle injection were verified by experiments.
Influencing Factors of Social Anxiety of Undergraduate Nursing Students Based on Random Forest Model: A Cross‐Sectional Study
Authors: Jia Yuling , Yue Yuexue
Published: January 2025

Aim

Social anxiety is common among students, yet research specifically on undergraduate nursing students is scarce. Previous studies have identified various influencing factors but lack a clear ranking of their importance, making it challenging to implement effective intervention strategies with limited resources. This study aims to assess the level of social anxiety in undergraduate nursing students and rank the importance of its influencing factors, providing essential insights for developing efficient and targeted interventions.

Design

A cross‐sectional study was conducted with 546 undergraduate nursing students in China.

Methods

Data were collected via a web‐based questionnaire, which included the fear of positive and negative evaluation scale, the self‐efficacy scale, and the social anxiety scale. The random forest model was employed to analyse the data and rank the importance of the influencing factors.

Results

The total social anxiety score among undergraduate nursing students was 11.20 ± 4.71. Social anxiety had a positive correlation with both fear of positive evaluation (r = 0.521, p < 0.001) and fear of negative evaluation (r = 0.648, p < 0.001) and a negative correlation with self‐efficacy (r = −0.273, p < 0.001). According to the random forest model, the top five predictors of social anxiety in this study were fear of negative evaluation, fear of positive evaluation, personality traits, self‐efficacy, and academic performance.

Conclusion

Attention to social anxiety in undergraduate nursing students is necessary, particularly for those with a higher fear of evaluations, introverted personalities, lower self‐efficacy, and poor academic performance. Nursing educators should consider recognising social anxiety and developing personalised interventions tailored to the specific characteristics of these students.

Patient or Public Contribution

All participants contributed to the conducting of this study by completing self‐reported questionnaires.
Pediatric Brain Tumors in Western Kenya: Patient Outcomes and Healthcare Providers’ Perspectives
Authors: Lemmen Jesse , Albertine Njie , Abdi Miyaada , Mohan Nilesh , Keitany Kibet , Eliasson‐Hofvander Marie , Kaspers Gertjan , Njuguna Festus
Published: January 2025

Background

Pediatric brain tumors are understudied compared to other pediatric malignancies in low‐ and middle‐income countries. Care delivery is inherently dependent on collaboration between multiple departments. This study aimed to present baseline data of pediatric neuro‐oncology care in Western Kenya and illustrate barriers and facilitators of multidisciplinary care.

Methods

We performed a mixed‐methods study using medical records and interviews. Children below age 19 years, managed for a brain tumor at the neurosurgery or pediatric oncology departments between 2015 and 2022, were included. Various cadres (consultants, residents, medical officers, clinical officers, nurses, counselors) and teams (neurosurgery, pediatric oncology, radio‐oncology, radiology, pathology) involved in pediatric brain tumor care participated.

Results

Seventy‐nine brain tumor patients were identified. The most prevalent confirmed diagnosis was medulloblastoma (n = 21). Most patients underwent surgery (n = 60; 76%). Event‐free survival rate at 2 years was 13%. Abandonment was the most common (n = 36; 46%) treatment failure. Multidisciplinary consultation occurred more frequently between 2020 and 2022 than between 2015 and 2019 (OR 2.7 [95% CI: 1.0–6.9; p = 0.04]). Barriers and potential facilitators of multidisciplinary management were resources, diagnostic and therapeutic flow, standards, knowledge, information comprehension, and work relationships. Themes interacted at a governmental, facility, and community level.

Conclusion

This baseline overview of pediatric neuro‐oncology care in Western Kenya showed that survival of children with pediatric brain tumors was poor and treatment abandonment was common. Strengthening the capacity at different organizational levels will improve continuity of care and expand the knowledge to support holistic multidisciplinary care for children with brain tumors in Kenya.
A combination of genome mining with OSMAC strategy facilitates the discovery of bioactive metabolites produced from termite‐associated Streptomyces tanashiensisBYF‐112
Authors: Wu Jun , Wang YiHeng , Wang YaXuan , Li XiaoHong , Li YueYue , Zhang Miao , Xiong JianHao , Yin CaiPing , Zhang ShuXiang , Liu XinHua , Zhang YingLao
Published: January 2025

BACKGROUND

Previously, eight new alkaloids were obtained from the fermentation extract of termite‐associated Streptomyces tanashiensis BYF‐112. However, genome analysis indicated the presence of many undiscovered secondary metabolites in S. tanashiensis BYF‐112.

RESULTS

Herein, 12 new alkaloids, tianwuine A–E (1–5), cephalandole C (6), venezuelines I–L (7–10), N‐(4‐methylphenyl‐2‐hydroxy) formamide (11) and N‐(5‐formyl‐2‐hydroxyphenyl) formamide (12), as well as three known metabolites (13–15) were discovered from BYF‐112 based on a combination of genome mining and the one strain many compounds (OSMAC) strategy. Plausible biosynthetic pathways of 1–13 were proposed using bioinformatic analysis of the full genome of BYF‐112. Partial metabolites were evaluated in vitro for their antibacterial, phytotoxic, and anti‐inflammatory activities. Pyrroloformamide A (14) showed strong antibacterial activities against Staphylococcus aureus, methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas syringae pv. actinidae, Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae and Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzicola at a concentration of 50 μg per 6 mm disk. Simultaneously, pyrroloformamide A (14) also had a strong inhibitory effect on the radicle growth of Echinochloa crusgalli with an inhibition rate of 98.01% at a concentration of 100 μg/mL, equivalent to the positive 2,4‐dichlorophenoxyacetic acid. Subsequently, the possible herbicidal mechanism of 14 was explored using molecular docking simulation. In addition, venezueline G (13) displayed a strong inhibitory effect of NO production, with an half‐maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) value of 2.3 μm, which was comparable with that of BAY 11‐7082 with an IC50 value of 2.1 μm.

CONCLUSION

These findings revealed a perspective for the development of novel bioactive drugs in the food, agricultural, and biomedical fields utilizing the metabolites of BYF‐112. © 2025 Society of Chemical Industry.
Interfacial Anisotropy‐Induced Enhanced Exchange Bias in FeCo Alloy Nanoparticles
Authors: Rajeevan Vismaya , Billgates Lebert Sam , Joseyphus Raphael Justin
Published: January 2025

The mechanism of exchange bias in Fe‐based nanoparticles is obscure as the role of the interface is unclear. This study explores the exchange bias characteristics in FeCo alloy nanoparticles of various compositions and an average particle size of 10 nm embedded in an oxide layer. The presence of CoO and γ‐Fe2O3 in all the FeCo compositions is confirmed from the phase analysis. The ferromagnetic resonance analysis reveals substantial effective magnetic anisotropy values in all the samples attributed to the surface and interfacial anisotropies. Significant enhancements in the ferromagnetic resonance linewidth and magnetic anisotropy are observed for the Fe40Co60 and Fe60Co40 nanoparticles, respectively. The Fe60Co40 nanoparticles exhibit a high exchange bias field (HE) of 1.2 kOe at 15 K, attributed to the antiferromagnetic interfaces. The ferromagnetic resonance studies, field‐cooled hysteresis loops, and the random field model suggest a comprehensive explanation for the observed increase in HE.
Enhancing Metal Grid Adhesion on Silicon Heterojunction Solar Cell by Annealing and Acid Etching the Indium Tin Oxide Layers
Authors: Li Xiaotong , Jia Xiaojie , Xu Xiaohua , Wen Lilan , Qu Shiyu , Peng Changtao , Xin Ke , Xiao Jihong , Zhou Su , Zuo Yuhua , Zhao Lei , Wang Wenjing
Published: January 2025

In order to enhance the metal grid adhesion on silicon heterojunction (SHJ) solar cell, an acid etching treatment is applied onto the indium tin oxide (ITO) layers before preparing the Ag grid by screen printing. At the same time, different annealing procedures to the ITO layers prior to the acid etching are comparatively investigated according to the variation of the ITO and SHJ solar cell performance. It is found that the acid etching can improve the adhesion of Ag grid on the ITO surface by modifying the ITO surface roughness. However, the acid corrosion can degrade the electrical and optical properties of ITO layers. To mitigate this, an annealing process is implemented prior to the acid corrosion. The annealing treatment can enhance the ITO resistance against the acid etching via promoting the ITO crystallization and thus reduce the etching depth of ITO layers. The ITO crystallization can also improve the conversion efficiency of the SHJ solar cells. So, the appropriate combination of annealing and acid etching is an effective way to achieve high‐efficiency SHJ solar cells with strong metal grid adhesion, which will be very beneficial for improving the stability of the SHJ solar cells in the field application.
Highly Robust Spray‐Pyrolyzed Al2O3 Gate Insulator for Flexible a‐IGZO Thin‐Film Transistors for Low‐Power Displays
Authors: Ahn Kiwan , Islam Md Mobaidul , Chang Yeoungjin , Jang Jin
Published: January 2025

Thin‐film transistor (TFT) is a key element in flexible display technology for energy‐efficient wearable electronics. A systematic analysis is performed to demonstrate the high‐quality high‐k Al2O3 gate insulator (GI) by low‐cost spray pyrolysis on a polyimide (PI) substrate for low‐power flexible displays. The spray‐pyrolyzed Al2O3 film deposited at 375 °C shows an amorphous phase, smooth surface roughness, and higher metal‐oxygen bonding states. Additionally, one‐cycle Ar/O2 plasma treatment on Al2O3 enhances the dielectric properties, exhibiting a lower leakage current density of 6.1 × 10−6 A cm−2 (@6.0 MV cm−1), higher breakdown electric field of 9.7 MV cm−1, and negligible frequency dependence in capacitance curves. The high‐performance and robust amorphous InGaZnO TFTs are fabricated using Al2O3 GI on a PI substrate, demonstrating a field‐effect mobility of 13.4 cm2 V−1 s−1, threshold voltage of −0.7 V, subthreshold swing of 0.305 V dec−1, ION/IOFF ratio of ≈109, gate leakage current of ≈0.1 pA, zero hysteresis voltage, and stable operation against electrical and mechanical stresses. Finally, a high‐speed ring oscillator operating at an oscillation frequency of 2.63 MHz, along with a gate driver exhibiting rising and falling times of 655 and 576 ns, are presented using spray‐pyrolyzed Al2O3/a‐IGZO TFTs on a PI substrate.
Crashworthiness Study of Double‐Hexagonal Self‐Similar Hierarchical Multicellular Tubes
Authors: Huang Cuiping , Deng Xiaolin
Published: January 2025

The energy absorption of the hierarchical multicell design is also better than that of the traditional multicell tube, and in addition, the energy absorption of the double‐tube structure is better than that of the single‐tube structure. Based on the above findings, a double‐hexagonal self‐similar hierarchical multicellular structure is proposed, and its crashworthiness analysis with the same wall thickness is carried out by numerical simulation of the validated model. The findings demonstrate that the double‐hexagonal self‐similar hierarchical multicellular tube (DHSHMT) exhibits superior energy absorption compared to the traditional hexagonal multicellular tube (THMT). Specifically, the DHSHMT‐3 demonstrates a 311.12% increase in energy absorption, a 65.82% increase in specific energy absorption, and a 67.61% increase in crush force efficiency when compared to the THMT. Furthermore, the parametric analysis reveals that the crashworthiness of the double‐hexagonal self‐similar hierarchical multicellular tube is significantly influenced by the wall thickness. Additionally, the crashworthiness is also affected by the gradient of the wall thickness (k) and the ratio of the inner and outer edge lengths (δ). Depending on the specific application, the wall thickness gradient and edge length ratio can be adjusted accordingly to enhance the crashworthiness of the structure.
Dielectric, Magnetic, and Magnetoelectric Responses of Cu0.7Co0.3Fe2O4 and PbZr0.58Ti0.42O3 Composite Phases
Authors: Bhavana H. V. , Bellad S. S.
Published: January 2025

In this research article, magnetoelectric composites comprising Cu0.7Co0.3Fe2O4 (CCFO) ferrite and PbZr0.58Ti0.42O3 (PZT) ferroelectric phases are synthesized using solid‐state reaction methods and characterized comprehensively for their structural, electrical, and magnetic properties. The synthesis involved meticulous preparation of high‐purity oxides, followed by presintering and final sintering steps to ensure phase formation and purity. Two fabrication approaches, particulate composites (y)CCFO + (1 − y) PZT where y = 0.25, 0.5, and 0.75 and laminated films (CCFO/PZT/CCFO and PZT/CCFO/PZT), are explored, each showing distinct behaviors in terms of dielectric constant, loss tangent, temperature dependence, DC resistivity, and magnetic hysteresis. Particulate composites exhibit frequency‐dependent dielectric behaviors influenced by particle interactions, while laminated films demonstrate more complex responses attributed to interfacial effects and layer interactions. Magnetic properties show variations in saturation magnetization, coercivity, and remanence, with laminated films generally exhibiting superior magnetic behaviors. Moreover, magnetoelectric coupling coefficients were evaluated, revealing higher values in laminated structures due to enhanced integration of magnetic and ferroelectric phases. This study underscores the importance of synthesis methodology and composite architecture in tailoring multifunctional properties offering insights into optimizing magnetoelectric performance for diverse applications.
Spectroscopic Ellipsometry Investigation of Temperature‐Dependent Dielectric Functions and Critical Points of β‐InSe
Authors: Le Long V. , Kim Tae Jung , Nguyen Xuan Au , Choi Junho , Kim Young Dong
Published: January 2025

Two‐dimensional layered materials, such as β‐InSe, have attracted significant interest due to their unique optical, electronic, and mechanical properties. The sample in this study is a bulk β‐phase InSe single crystal, which is grown using the temperature gradient method. The quality of this crystal is confirmed by X‐ray diffraction, high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy, and Raman spectroscopy. This investigation focuses on the temperature‐dependent dielectric functions and critical points (CPs) of β‐InSe, particularly at its cleavage plane. The spectral range is 0.74–6.42 eV, and the temperature range is 27–300 K. Measurements are done with a dual‐rotating‐compensator spectroscopic ellipsometer. At low temperatures, CPs are resolved that cannot be observed at room temperature, a consequence of sharper features due to reduced broadening from electron–phonon interactions. The CPs are identified through first‐principles density functional theory calculations. These findings provide a deeper understanding of the optical properties of β‐InSe, further supporting its application in optoelectronic devices.