bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A smartphone application for personalized facial aesthetic monitoring
Authors: Hashimoto Wataru , Kaneda Shohei
Published: July 2024

Background

Methods available at home for capturing facial images to track changes in skin quality and evaluate skincare treatments are limited. In this study, we developed a smartphone camera application (app) for personalized facial aesthetic monitoring.

Materials and Methods

A face alignment indicators (FAIN) system utilizing facial landmark detection, an artificial intelligence technique, to estimate key facial parts, was implemented into the app to maintain a consistent facial appearance during image capture. The FAIN system is composed of a fixed target indicator and an alignment indicator that dynamically changes its shape according to the user's face position, size, and orientation. Users align their faces to match the alignment indicator with the fixed target indicator, and the image is automatically captured when alignment is achieved.

Results

We investigated the app's effectiveness in ensuring a consistent facial appearance by analyzing both geometric and colorimetric data. Geometric information from captured faces and colorimetric data from stickers applied to the faces were utilized. The coefficients of variation (CVs) for the L*, a*, and b* values of the stickers were higher compared to those measured by a colorimeter, with CVs of 14.9 times, 8.14 times, and 4.41 times for L*, a*, and b*, respectively. To assess the feasibility of the app for facial aesthetic monitoring, we tracked changes in pseudo‐skin color on the cheek of a participant using skin‐colored stickers. As a result, we observed the smallest color difference ∆Eab of 1.901, which can be considered as the experimentally validated detection limit using images acquired by the app.

Conclusion

While the current monitoring method is a relative quantification approach, it contributes to evidence‐based evaluations of skincare treatments.
Ameliorating effects of adropin on letrozole‐induced polycystic ovary syndrome via regulating steroidogenesis and the microbiota inflammatory axis in rats
Authors: Rizk Fatma H. , El Saadany Amira A. , Elshamy Amira Mostafa , Abd Ellatif Rasha A. , El‐Guindy Dina M. , Helal Duaa S. , Hamama Mohamed G. , El‐Sharnoby Jehan Abd El‐Hameed , Abdel Ghafar Muhammad T. , Faheem Heba
Published: July 2024

Growing evidence supports the role of gut microbiota in chronic inflammation, insulin resistance (IR) and sex hormone production in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Adropin plays a pivotal role in the regulation of glucose and lipid metabolism and is negatively correlated with IR, which affects intestinal microbiota and sex hormones. However, the effect of adropin administration in PCOS has yet to be investigated. The present study aimed to assess the effects of adropin on letrozole (LTZ)‐induced PCOS in rats and the potential underlying mechanisms. The experimental groups were normal, adropin, letrozole and LTZ + adropin. At the end of the experiment, adropin significantly ameliorated PCOS, as evidenced by restoring the normal ovarian structure, decreasing the theca cell thickness in antral follicles, as well as serum testosterone and luteinizing hormone levels and luteinizing hormone/follicle‐stimulating hormone ratios, at the same time as increasing granulosa cell thickness in antral follicles, oestradiol and follicle‐stimulating hormone levels. The ameliorating effect could be attributed to its effect on sex hormone‐binding globulin, key steroidogenic genes STAR and CYP11A1, IR, lipid profile, gut microbiota metabolites–brain–ovary axis components (short chain fatty acids, free fatty acid receptor 3 and peptide YY), intestinal permeability marker (zonulin and tight junction protein claudin‐1), lipopolysaccharides/Toll‐like receptor 4/nuclear factor kappa B inflammatory pathway and oxidative stress makers (malondialdehyde and total antioxidant capacity). In conclusion, adropin has a promising therapeutic effect on PCOS by regulating steroidogenesis, IR, lipid profile, the gut microbiota inflammatory axis and redox homeostasis.

image

Key points

Adropin treatment reversed endocrine and ovarian morphology disorders in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

Adropin regulated the ovarian steroidogenesis and sex hormone‐binding globulin in PCOS.

Adropin improved lipid profile and decreased insulin resistance in PCOS.

Adropin modulated the components of the gut–brain–ovary axis (short chain fatty acids, free fatty acid receptor 3 and peptide YY) in PCOS.

Adropin improved intestinal barrier integrity, suppressed of lipopolysaccharides/Toll‐like receptor 4/nuclear factor kappa B signalling pathway and oxidative stress in PCOS.
INTRODUCTION TO IN VITRO CULTURE OF RHAPОNTICUM CARTHAMOIDES
Authors: Raizer O. , Tagimanova D. , Nagmetova G. , Khapilina O.
Published: July 2024

The article presents the results of studies on the introduction into in vitro culture of the valuable medicinal plant Rhaponticum carthamoides, growing in the territory of the Kazakhstan Altai. R. carthamoides - or maral root is a source of various biologically active compounds (flavonoids, polysaccharides, saponins, cumanins). This species is of particular value as a producer of ultra-high quantities of ecdysteroids, which have a hepatoprotective and hypoglycemic effect, acting as adaptogens. Currently, natural reserves of this species are sharply reduced due to increasing demand and, as a consequence, lead to the depletion of natural populations. Modern biotechnology methods make it possible to develop highly effective approaches for the propagation and preservation of R. carthamoides for subsequent introduction and expansion of the range of fodder and medicinal crops that meet the needs of agriculture, medicine and the food industry.
Seeds collected from their natural habitats were used as research material. A seed sterilization protocol has been developed; it has been established that to obtain aseptic seedlings it is necessary to use a multi-stage sterilization protocol using various sterilizing agents. Surface-sterilized seeds were placed on MS and MS media containing ½ mineral salts with different hormonal compositions. The results showed that the percentage of seed germination varied depending on the hormonal status of the environment and ranged from 42.9 to 85.5%. Thus, the lowest percentage of germination was noted on the B0 medium option (½ MS) - 42.9%. The highest percentage of germination was in seeds on the B3 medium option (MS + 3 mg/l BAP + 3 mg/l kinetin) - 85.5%.
A Mathematical Model for Postimplant Collagen Remodeling in an Autologous Engineered Pulmonary Arterial Conduit
Authors: Sacks Michael S.
Published: July 2024

This study was undertaken to develop a mathematical model of the long-term in vivo remodeling processes in postimplanted pulmonary artery (PA) conduits. Experimental results from two extant ovine in vivo studies, wherein polyglycolic-acid (PGA)/poly-L-lactic acid tubular conduits were constructed, cell seeded, incubated for 4 weeks, and then implanted in mature sheep to obtain the remodeling data for up to two years. Explanted conduit analysis included detailed novel structural and mechanical studies. Results in both studies indicated that the in vivo conduits remained dimensionally stable up to 80 weeks, so that the conduits maintained a constant in vivo stress and deformation state. In contrast, continued remodeling of the constituent collagen fiber network as evidenced by an increase in effective tissue uniaxial tangent modulus, which then stabilized by one year postimplant. A mesostructural constitute model was then applied to extant planar biaxial mechanical data and revealed several interesting features, including an initial pronounced increase in effective collagen fiber modulus, paralleled by a simultaneous shift toward longer, more uniformly length-distributed collagen fibers. Thus, while the conduit remained dimensionally stable, its internal collagen fibrous structure and resultant mechanical behaviors underwent continued remodeling that stabilized by one year. A time-evolving structural mixture-based mathematical model specialized for this unique form of tissue remodeling was developed, with a focus on time-evolving collagen fiber stiffness as the driver for tissue-level remodeling. The remodeling model was able to fully reproduce (1) the observed tissue-level increases in stiffness by time-evolving simultaneous increases in collagen fiber modulus and lengths, (2) maintenance of the constant collagen fiber angular dispersion, and (3) stabilization of the remodeling processes at one year. Collagen fiber remodeling geometry was directly verified experimentally by histological analysis of the time-evolving collagen fiber crimp, which matches model predictions very closely. Interestingly, the remodeling model indicated that the basis for tissue homeostasis was maintenance of the collagen fiber ensemble stress for all orientations, and not individual collagen fiber stresses. Unlike other growth and remodeling models that traditionally treat changes in the external boundary conditions (e.g., changes in blood pressure) as the primary input stimuli, the driver herein is changes to the internal constituent collagen fiber themselves due to cellular mediated cross-linking.
Research on the improvement of the adhesion strength of the Cu films deposited on the Al2O3 films
Authors: Ouyang Lingfeng , Gao Yin , Zheng Huilong
Published: July 2024

Due to the significant discrepancy in the coefficient of linear thermal expansion between Cu and ceramic in T-type thin film thermocouples, the Cu thin films often exhibit a low adhesion strength with the ceramic layers (Al2O3). In order to improve the adhesion strength of the Cu with the Al2O3 films, several methods during preparation were studied. First, different thicknesses of the Cu thin films deposited at different deposition temperatures on the Al2O3 thin films prepared by the magnetron sputtering were studied. Second, the Ti/Ni buffer layer between the Cu and the Al2O3 thin films was prepared. Finally, the average roughness of Al2O3 was studied. The adhesion strength of the Cu with the Al2O3 thin films, the microstructure of the surface and the cross section of the Cu and the Al2O3 thin films, and the grain size and the roughness of the films are characterized by nanoscratch testing, scanning electron microscopy, and atomic force microscopy. The adhesion strength of the Cu films with the Al2O3 films increases with an increase in the thickness of the Cu thin films and the roughness of the Al2O3 thin films and the addition of the Ti/Ni buffer layers.
An antibody that inhibits TGF-β1 release from latent extracellular matrix complexes attenuates the progression of renal fibrosis
Authors: Jackson Justin W. , Frederick C. Streich Jr.  , Pal Ajai , Coricor George , Boston Chris , Brueckner Christopher T. , Canonico Kaleigh , Chapron Christopher , Cote Shaun , Dagbay Kevin B. , Danehy Francis T. , Kavosi Mania , Kumar Sandeep , Lin Susan , Littlefield Christopher , Looby Kailyn , Manohar Rohan , Martin Constance J. , Wood Marcie , Zawadzka Agatha , Wawersik Stefan , Nicholls Samantha B. , Datta Abhishek , Buckler Alan , Schürpf Thomas , Carven Gregory J. , Qatanani Mohammed , Fogel Adam I.
Published: July 2024

Inhibitors of the transforming growth factor–β (TGF-β) pathway are potentially promising antifibrotic therapies, but nonselective simultaneous inhibition of all three TGF-β homologs has safety liabilities. TGF-β1 is noncovalently bound to a latency-associated peptide that is, in turn, covalently bound to different presenting molecules within large latent complexes. The latent TGF-β–binding proteins (LTBPs) present TGF-β1 in the extracellular matrix, and TGF-β1 is presented on immune cells by two transmembrane proteins, glycoprotein A repetitions predominant (GARP) and leucine-rich repeat protein 33 (LRRC33). Here, we describe LTBP-49247, an antibody that selectively bound to and inhibited the activation of TGF-β1 presented by LTBPs but did not bind to TGF-β1 presented by GARP or LRRC33. Structural studies demonstrated that LTBP-49247 recognized an epitope on LTBP-presented TGF-β1 that is not accessible on GARP- or LRRC33-presented TGF-β1, explaining the antibody’s selectivity for LTBP-complexed TGF-β1. In two rodent models of kidney fibrosis of different etiologies, LTBP-49247 attenuated fibrotic progression, indicating the central role of LTBP-presented TGF-β1 in renal fibrosis. In mice, LTBP-49247 did not have the toxic effects associated with less selective TGF-β inhibitors. These results establish the feasibility of selectively targeting LTBP-bound TGF-β1 as an approach for treating fibrosis.
More Velcro for the TGF-β1 straitjacket: A new antibody straps latent TGF-β1 to the matrix
Authors: Hinz Boris
Published: July 2024

In this issue of
Science Signaling
, Jackson
et al.
present a new antibody strategy to—quite literally—strap transforming growth factor–β1 (TGF-β1) to latent complexes in the extracellular matrix. The antibody has no effect on latent TGF-β1 presented on the surface of immune cells and thus allows targeting of the detrimental effects of TGF-β1 in fibrosis without affecting its beneficial immune-suppressing activities.
Viroporin-like activity of the hairpin transmembrane domain of African swine fever virus B169L protein
Authors: Gladue Douglas P. , Gomez-Lucas Lidia , Largo Eneko , Ramirez-Medina Elizabeth , Torralba Johana , Queralt-Martín Maria , Alcaraz Antonio , Velazquez-Salinas Lauro , Nieva Jose L. , Borca Manuel V.
Published: July 2024

African swine fever virus (ASFV) is the causative agent of a contagious disease affecting wild and domestic swine. The function of B169L protein, as a potential integral structural membrane protein, remains to be experimentally characterized. Using state-of-the-art bioinformatics tools, we confirm here earlier predictions indicating the presence of an integral membrane helical hairpin, and further suggest anchoring of this protein to the ER membrane, with both terminal ends facing the lumen of the organelle. Our evolutionary analysis confirmed the importance of purifying selection in the preservation of the identified domains during the evolution of B169L in nature. Also, we address the possible function of this hairpin transmembrane domain (HTMD) as a class IIA viroporin. Expression of GFP fusion proteins in the absence of a signal peptide supported B169L insertion into the ER as a Type III membrane protein and the formation of oligomers therein. Overlapping peptides that spanned the B169L HTMD were reconstituted into ER-like membranes and the adopted structures analyzed by infrared spectroscopy. Consistent with the predictions, B169L transmembrane sequences adopted α-helical conformations in lipid bilayers. Moreover, single vesicle permeability assays demonstrated the assembly of lytic pores in ER-like membranes by B169L transmembrane helices, a capacity confirmed by ion-channel activity measurements in planar bilayers. Emphasizing the relevance of these observations, pore-forming activities were not observed in the case of transmembrane helices derived from EP84R, another ASFV protein predicted to anchor to membranes through a α-helical HTMD. Overall, our results support predictions of viroporin-like function for the B169L HTMD.

IMPORTANCE

African swine fever (ASF), a devastating disease affecting domestic swine, is widely spread in Eurasia, producing significant economic problems in the pork industry. Approaches to prevent/cure the disease are mainly restricted to the limited information concerning the role of most of the genes encoded by the large (160–170 kba) virus genome. In this report, we present the experimental data on the functional characterization of the African swine fever virus (ASFV) gene B169L. Data presented here indicates that the B169L gene encodes for an essential membrane-associated protein with a viroporin function.
TB PCR in BAL and EBUS-TBNA samples for the diagnosis of pulmonary and mediastinal lymph node TB: retrospective TRiBE study
Authors: Park Mirae , Kumar Kartik , Coleman Meg , Martin Laura , Russell Georgina , Scheelbeek Pauline , Lalvani Ajit , Satta Giovanni , Kon Onn Min
Published: July 2024

Introduction

The role of Xpert Ultra in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) and endobronchial ultrasound-guided transbronchial needle aspiration (EBUS-TBNA) samples for pulmonary and mediastinal lymph node tuberculosis (TB) remains unclear.

Methods

This was a retrospective observational service evaluation at a tertiary TB centre in a low-incidence setting. The diagnostic indices of Xpert Ultra, smear and culture (with cytology for EBUS-TBNA samples) were compared with culture positivity or a composite reference standard of clinical TB diagnosis. Trace readouts, a new category of results for Xpert Ultra indicating low bacillary load, were analysed in two ways as a true positive or true negative result. 282 BAL and 139 EBUS-TBNA samples were included in the analysis.

Results

BAL: sensitivity with 95% CI against culture-confirmed pulmonary TB from BAL samples for Xpert Ultra (trace as positive) was 0.91 (0.82 to 0.98), Xpert Ultra (trace as negative) was 0.76 (0.69 to 0.83), smear was 0.38 (p=0.0009) and culture was 1.00 (0.91 to 1.00). Specificities for all the tests were ≥0.99 (0.98 to 1.00). The addition of smear to Xpert Ultra did not improve the diagnostic accuracy.

EBUS-TBNA: sensitivity against culture-confirmed TB from EBUS-TBNA samples for Xpert Ultra (trace as positive) was 0.71 (0.63 to 0.78), Xpert Ultra (trace as negative) was 0.59 (0.54 to 0.63), smear was 0.12 (p=0.002), culture was 1.00 (0.89 to 1.00), cytology was 0.87 (0.76 to 0.98) and rapid on-site evaluation of cytology (ROSE) was 0.92 (0.78 to 1.00). Specificities were 0.99 (0.97 to 1.00), 0.99 (0.97 to 1.00), 1.00 (0.98 to 1.00), 1.00 (0.98 to 1.00), 0.67 (0.67 to 0.68) and 0.42, respectively.

Conclusion

Xpert Ultra had a significantly higher sensitivity compared with smear in both BAL and EBUS-TBNA samples. Xpert Ultra had a lower sensitivity compared with culture but comparable specificity with results being available within <24 hours. Trace readings in our low-incidence setting were associated with culture positivity in all BAL samples.
Lactoferrin efficacy in treating hyperferritinemia in patients suffering from pathologies unrelated to hereditary hemochromatosis
Authors: Pollio Giuditta , Rosa Luigi , Costanzo Anna Maria , Paesano Rosalba , Tripepi Giovanni , Valenti Piera
Published: July 2024

Ferritin (Ftn), a globular protein, sequesters 4500 atoms of iron per molecule. Elevated serum Ftn levels (hyperferritinemia) is an indicator of iron homeostasis disorders. We present the results of an observational study involving 17 patients with hyperferritinemia unrelated to hereditary hemochromatosis (HH). All participants received treatment with 200 mg of bovine lactoferrin (bLf) once ( n = 14) or twice ( n = 3) a day before meals. The patients, treated with 200 mg/day of bLf, exhibited a significant increase in red blood cells (+10%, p < 0.001), hemoglobin (+4%, p < 0.001), and hematocrit (+15%, p = 0.004), accompanied by a significant reduction in serum Ftn levels (−52%, p < 0.001), C-reactive protein (CRP) (−85.0%, p < 0.001), and D-dimers (−19%, p < 0.001). Among the three patients treated with 400 mg/day of bLf, two had effects similar to those of patients bLf-treated with 200 mg/day and one experienced a strong reduction of Ftn, CRP, and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (from −97% to −75%). The decrease in serum Ftn levels due to bLf treatment was largely independent of gender ( p = 0.78), age ( p = 0.66), baseline symptoms ( p = 0.20), and concomitant acute ( p = 0.34) and chronic ( p = 0.53) infections. Although this observational pilot study yields positive effects in patients with hyperferritinemia unrelated to HH treated with bLf, a larger sample size is needed for conclusive results.
Estimating relative density from shallow depth CPTs in normally consolidated and overconsolidated siliceous sand
Authors: Jensen Mathias Rolf
Published: July 2024

Current interpretation of relative density ( Dr) based on cone penetration test (CPT) end resistance ( qc) data in sand relies on empirical expressions established from calibration chamber studies for which a deep failure penetration mechanism is attained. These expressions are mainly based on stress normalised qc data. Previous studies have highlighted the importance of performing the normalisation procedure with respect to the mean effective stress ( p′) in overconsolidated (OC) sand deposits instead of the vertical effective stress ( σ′v) that has been used in normally consolidated deposits. Due to a large variation in the coefficient of earth pressure at rest ( K0), on which p′ depends, in the uppermost 3–5 m of OC sand, a recent study has demonstrated a rigorous unified approach for estimating a varying K0 with depth. However, the surficial shallow failure penetration effects are not accounted for, and consequently, interpretation of the upper 0.5–1.5 m of sand is still erroneous. This depth range is very important for low-stress geotechnical applications such as offshore flowlines and mudmats. With a reinterpretation of previously published data, a new global model is presented that potentially enables estimation of Dr from shallow CPTs in siliceous sand by taking into account both the shallow failure penetration effects (important in the uppermost 0.5–1.5 m) as well as the varying K0 with depth for OC sand (important in the uppermost 3–5 m). However, the new model needs future calibration with controlled laboratory testing.
Scalarization of Kerr–Newman black holes in the Einstein–Chern–Simons-scalar theory
Authors: Fan Kun-Hui , Myung Yun Soo , Zou De-Cheng , Lai Meng-Yun
Published: July 2024

We investigate the tachyonic instability of Kerr–Newman (KN) black hole with a rotation parameter a in the Einstein–Chern–Simons-scalar theory coupled with a quadratic massive scalar field. This instability analysis corresponds to exploring the onset of spontaneous scalarization for KN black holes. First, we find no a-bound for $$\alpha <0$$

α
<
0

case by considering (1 + 1)-dimensional analytical method. A direct numerical method is adopted to explore (2 + 1)-dimensional time evolution of a massive scalar perturbation with positive and negative $$\alpha $$
α
to obtain threshold curves numerically. We obtain threshold curves $$\alpha _{\textrm{th}}(a)$$

α
th

(
a
)

of tachyonic instability for positive $$\alpha $$
α
without any a-bounds. We expect to find the same threshold curves $$\alpha _{\textrm{th}}(a)$$

α
th

(
a
)

of tachyonic instability for negative $$\alpha $$
α
without any a-bound because its linearized scalar theory is invariant under the transformation of $$\alpha \rightarrow -\alpha $$

α
→
-
α

and $$\theta \rightarrow -\theta .$$

θ
→
-
θ
.

In addition, it is found that the scalar mass term suppresses tachyonic instability of KN black holes, while the black hole charge promotes the instability (disregarding the contribution of the charge to the existence conditions $$M^2-Q^2\ge a^2)$$

M
2

-

Q
2

≥

a
2

)

.
Dark matter production accompanied by gravitational wave signals during cosmological phase transitions
Authors: Xu Shuocheng , Zhou Ruiyu , Cheng Wei , Liu Xuewen
Published: July 2024

We investigate the temperature-dependent production of feebly interacting massive dark matter particle (FIMP DM) within a $$Z_2$$

Z
2

model, incorporating two $$Z_2$$

Z
2

-odd scalar fields. In specific parameter regions, three distinct mechanisms individually dominate the production of the FIMP DM. These mechanisms include the semi-production process, commonly known as the “exponential growth” process, the three-body decay process, and the production from pair annihilations of the bath particles. It is crucial to consider the thermal history during the evolution of FIMPs, as it involves multiple phase transitions occurring prior to the freeze-in of dark matter. Consequently, the scalar masses experience thermal variations, leading to distinctive evolutionary trajectories for FIMPs when compared to scenarios without accounting for the thermal effects. Notably, the unique patterns of FIMP evolution are accompanied by the production of gravitational waves, presenting promising opportunities for detection using forthcoming interferometers.
Highly dispersive eighth-order embedded solitons with cubic–quartic χ(2) and χ(3) nonlinear susceptibilities under the influence of multiplicative white noise using Itô calculus
Authors: Alngar Mohamed E. M. , Mostafa Almetwally M. , AlQahtani Salman A. , Shohib Reham M. A. , Pathak Pranavkumar
Published: July 2024

This research explores the intriguing realm of eighth-order embedded solitons in highly dispersive media with cubic–quartic nonlinear susceptibilities [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], all within the dynamic context of multiplicative white noise and the framework of Itô calculus. Two different approaches are used in this study. The new auxiliary equation approach produces the bright soliton and singular soliton solutions, while the addendum Kudryashov’s approach produces the bright soliton, singular soliton and combo bright–singular soliton solutions. The system under investigation and the results documented within this work stand as pioneering and original contributions to the field of nonlinear optics. Furthermore, a collection of 2D, 3D and contour plots is produced to visually represent the spatial distribution and progression of different solutions. This not only contributes to the advancement of nonlinear equations in theory but also offers valuable insights for practical applications.
An Extensive Review on Lung Cancer Detection Models
Authors: Singh Rajesh
Published: July 2024

The categorization and identification of lung disorders in medical imageries are made easier by recent advances in deep learning (DL). As a result, various studies using DL to identify lung illnesses were developed. This study aims to analyze different publications that have been contributed to in order to recognize lung cancer. This literature review examines the many methods for detecting lung cancer. It analyzes several segmentation models that have been used and reviews different research papers. It examines several feature extraction methods, such as those using texture-based and other features. The investigation then concentrates on several cancer detection strategies, including “DL models” and machine learning (ML) models. It is possible to examine and analyze the performance metrics. Finally, research gaps are presented to encourage additional investigation of lung detection models.
Advances and Significances of Nanoparticles as Concrete Additives: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Al Mahmud Md. Zobair , Khan Moyeen , Refati Md. Faysal Ahamed Dewan , Mobarak Md Hosne , Al Shafi Md. Abdullah , Hossain Nayem , Foysal Ahmed A. K. M.
Published: July 2024

Nanotechnology, a significant technological advancement in the current century, has brought about revolutionary changes in numerous fields by manipulating matter at the nanoscale. This review paper examines the various applications of nanoparticles in the concrete industry, emphasizing their potential to improve mechanical qualities, thermal performance and sustainability. This study investigates multiple synthesis strategies, such as grafting, sol–gel, chemical and biological procedures, which offer concrete engineers a diverse range of options to tailor the properties of nanoparticles. The utilization of this particular material results in notable enhancements in many mechanical properties of concrete, including its compressive and flexural strength, toughness, thermal conductivity and self-sensing capabilities. These improvements ultimately contribute to the overall enhancement of the concrete’s structural integrity and energy efficiency. Adding nanoparticles to concrete has also been shown to help it develop self-healing properties. This means that structures last longer and require less maintenance. Making building materials more resistant to chemical corrosion, wear and environmental forces is also a big step in making them last longer. The growing emphasis on sustainability within the building industry has generated heightened attention toward utilizing self-healing concrete, which frequently incorporates nanoparticles. To make the building industry more environmentally friendly, using less traditional cement and recycling personal safety equipment (PPE) like vinyl and latex gloves can help protect the environment. This review also highlights the significant problems in employing nanoparticles in concrete: obtaining equal dispersion, handling-costs and addressing environmental and health concerns. However, nanotechnology is advancing construction concrete research to improve mechanical properties and durability.
Counterfactual Explanations and Algorithmic Recourses for Machine Learning: A Review
Authors: Verma Sahil , Boonsanong Varich , Hoang Minh , Hines Keegan , Dickerson John , Shah Chirag
Published: July 2024

Machine learning plays a role in many deployed decision systems, often in ways that are difficult or impossible to understand by human stakeholders. Explaining, in a human-understandable way, the relationship between the input and output of machine learning models is essential to the development of trustworthy machine learning based systems. A burgeoning body of research seeks to define the goals and methods of
explainability
in machine learning. In this article, we seek to review and categorize research on
counterfactual explanations
, a specific class of explanation that provides a link between what could have happened had input to a model been changed in a particular way. Modern approaches to counterfactual explainability in machine learning draw connections to the established legal doctrine in many countries, making them appealing to fielded systems in high-impact areas such as finance and healthcare. Thus, we design a rubric with desirable properties of counterfactual explanation algorithms and comprehensively evaluate all currently proposed algorithms against that rubric. Our rubric provides easy comparison and comprehension of the advantages and disadvantages of different approaches and serves as an introduction to major research themes in this field. We also identify gaps and discuss promising research directions in the space of counterfactual explainability.
Spacer Side-wall Processed 0.15 μm GaN HEMT for Ka-band Application
Authors: Zhang Lixing , Lv Beibei , Ding Xu , Yu Faxin , Wang Zhiyu , Mo Jiongjiong
Published: July 2024

In this paper, we have effectively demonstrated 150 nm-gate-length AlGaN/GaN high electron mobility transistors (HEMTs) on 4-inch SiC substrate. The 150 nm gate-length was accomplished by utilizing traditional I-line stepper photolithography, together with a nitride spacer side-wall. This method offers superior processing efficiency compared to E-beam lithography with high wafer uniformity. The devices processed with this spacer side-wall aided method demonstrated comparable electrical performances as that of E-beam processed one with fT of 45 GHz, fMAX of 80 GHz, Pout of 31 dBm and PAE of 45% at 29 GHz, which can be imported to large scale manufacturing.
A New Class of Multifunctional CoDyzFe2−zO4 Magnetic Nanomaterials: Influence of Structural, Morphological, Optical, Magnetic, Antibacterial, and Photocatalytic Traits
Authors: Kumar Sanjay , Jasrotia Rohit , Puri Pooja , Ahmed Jahangeer , Alshehri Saad M. , Lakshmaiya Natrayan , Sillanpää Mika , Raja Vaseem , Verma Ankit , Kumari Swati
Published: July 2024

Here we focus on preparing recoverable Dy doped CoFe2O4 photocatalysts for the removal of the malachite green pollutant (MGP) in natural Sunlight. XRD results demonstrate development of the spinel symmetry with no impurities phases. The FESEM analysis revealed spherical grains with definite grain boundaries and agglomerated behavior. We found that our synthesized photocatalysts behaves as an excellent magnetic nanomaterial by observing the saturation magnetization of 77.79 emu g−1. Out of all photocatalysts, CoDy0.03Fe1.97O4 nanophotocatalyst exhibit the high zone of inhibition (ZOI) for Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. It makes the prepared nanomaterials highly suitable for the biological purposes. The effectiveness of photocatalytic degradation activity of prepared specimens is significantly impacted by the addition of dysprosium ions. During a 150 min of reaction period, CoDy0.03Fe1.97O4 has a higher degradation percentage around 95.36% as compared to CoFe2O4 (86.09%). The prepared doped and undoped CoFe2O4 nanomaterials displayed the least decline in the degradation percentage of MGP after four reuse cycles and this might be attributable to the weight loss during the recovery. Therefore, the nanomaterials suggested a reliable and durable photocatalyst for degradation process. Hence the prepared magnetically recoverable and multifunctional photocatalysts are reliable for the water remediation and biological usages.
On the Thermodynamic Properties of FexSe0.5Te0.5 Superconducting Single Crystals: An Experimental Study
Authors: Hamad R. M. , Hamad M. Kh. , Kunwar S. , Ziq Kh. A.
Published: July 2024

The variation of the thermodynamic critical fields (Hc) with temperature has been obtained from the equilibrium magnetization of FexSe0.5Te0.5 superconducting single-crystal with (0.95 ≤ × ≤ 1.1). Based on the BCS theory, we used the Hc values to obtain the variations in the energy gap Δ(T), the cooper pair coupling, the energy gap ratio 2Δ(0)/kBTc, and the specific heat jump

Δ
C

BCS

/

T

c

with varying Fe content. We found that the Cooper pairs coupling strength decreases with increasing Fe content within the range (∼3.1 to 2.6) for 1.0 ≤ × ≤ 1.1, which is consistent with the BCS-weak coupling limit for all samples. Moreover, the value of the energy gap is nearly constant at about 3.5 meV for all samples, while the Hc(0)/Tc ratio reaches a maximum near x ∼ 1.05. The obtained values of the energy gap, the coupling strength, and the specific heat ratio are consistent with recently published results using various experimental techniques.
Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy: Patients Characteristics, Mortality, and Clinical Significance of Left Ventricular Outflow Tract Gradient, Retrospective Study
Authors: Daralammouri Yunis , Hamayel Hamza , Abugaber Dina , Nabulsi Sari
Published: July 2024

Background. Takotsubo cardiomyopathy (TC) is a reversible left ventricular systolic dysfunction with apical ballooning. Left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) obstruction may develop in these cases due to hyperdynamic state of the left ventricle. Limited data are available on the prevalence of LVOT gradient in TC and its association with patient outcomes and mortality. Methods. Data were collected retrospectively for patients diagnosed with TC in a single tertiary center, demographic information, blood analysis results, and imaging finding including ejection fraction, and LVOT gradient was obtained from medical records. Additionally, medical treatment and outcome during hospitalization were extracted. Follow‐up was conducted through cardiology clinic or phone contact. Result. A total of 59 patients diagnosed with TC were reviewed during hospitalization, and 40 patients were followed up after discharge by phone contact and cardiology clinic. Most patients were female (91.5%), and nonsignificant coronary artery disease was present in 16.9% of patients. Approximately two‐third of the patients had a reduced ejection fraction on admission, and only two patients (5.4%) continued to have reduced ejection fraction on echocardiography follow‐up within a period of 2–14 days. LVOT gradient was present in 17 patients (28.5%); patients with preserved ejection fraction had a higher probability of having an LVOT gradient. However, there was no association between LVOT gradient and shock or mortality. Four patients (6.7%) experienced 30‐day mortality, while all‐cause mortality was reported in eight patients (13.5%) over the follow‐up period (mean (±SD) 20.8 months ± 16.2). Conclusion. LVOT obstruction may occur in TC patients; it has no correlation with shock or mortality. However, determining whether there is a gradient is important for deciding on specific treatment approach.
Cancer Outpatients’ Self‐Reported Pain Relief, Analgesic Adherence, and Constipation during Follow‐Up Support: A Prospective, Longitudinal Study
Authors: Yang Hong , Ma Xiaoxiao , Zhang Shiyi , Shao Jinxing , Li Xin , Hao Lihua , Zhang Hong , Heng Fanxiu , Lu Yuhan
Published: July 2024

Aims and Objectives. This prospective study describes the pain relief, analgesic adherence, and constipation experienced by cancer outpatients with pain during the first three cycles of follow‐up support based on an information system. Methods. Outpatients with cancer pain who received at least three cycles of follow‐up support between 1 July 2020 and 31 March 2022 at our cancer centre were enrolled in this prospective, longitudinal study. Three cycles of follow‐up support were provided by trained nurses over the telephone. Pain relief, analgesic adherence, and constipation were reported by the patients and recorded in the information system by trained nurses during the telephone follow‐up. Results. A total of 386 cancer patients were enrolled in the study. Pain relief and analgesic adherence improved significantly during the three follow‐up cycles after they received support (P < 0.001). The rate of pain relief and analgesic adherence improved at the second cycle compared to the first cycle, but the rate decreased at the third cycle compared to the second cycle. Some patients who had no problems at the first follow‐up cycle experienced new problems during the second and third follow‐up cycles. There was no significant difference in the incidence of constipation between follow‐up cycles (P = 0.078). Conclusions. Cancer outpatients with pain reported increased pain relief and analgesic adherence during follow‐up support. Compared to rates at the first and third cycles, pain relief and analgesic adherence were best at the second cycle after follow‐up support according to the information system. Relevance to Clinical Practice. Changes in pain intensity, analgesic adherence, and constipation were noted over time, which highlights the need for continuous follow‐up to achieve prolonged pain relief in cancer patients after discharge from the hospital.
Lipid Metabolism in Pregnancy Women with Hypothyroidism and Potential Influence on Pregnancy Outcome
Authors: Qin Yuxin , Wu Ying , Zang Huanhuan , Cong Xiangguo , Shen Qiong , Chen Lei , Chen Xinxin
Published: July 2024

Thyroid hormone (TH) is essential for maintaining normal physiological processes during pregnancy, including the metabolism of energy materials in both the mother and fetus and the growth and development of fetal bone and nervous system. TH can act on the liver, fat, and other tissues and organs to participate in lipid synthesis and breakdown through multiple pathways. Consequently, abnormal thyroid function is often accompanied by lipid metabolism disorders. Both clinical and subclinical hypothyroidism, as well as dyslipidemia during pregnancy, have been shown to be associated with an increased risk of multiple adverse pregnancy outcomes. Recently, there has been an increased interest in studying the alteration of lipidomic and hypothyroidism (both clinical and subclinical hypothyroidism) during pregnancy. Studies have suggested that altered lipid molecules might be used as potential biomarker and associated with adverse maternal and neonatal outcome. Thus, we summarized the associations between lipid metabolism and clinical or subclinical hypothyroidism during pregnancy in this review. Then, we discussed the underlying mechanisms of thyroid dysfunction and lipid metabolism. In addition, we reviewed the possible effect of dyslipidemia on pregnancy and neonatal outcome. However, the relationship between hypothyroidism during pregnancy and changes in the lipid profile and how to intervene in the occurrence and development of adverse pregnancy outcomes require further study.
Dietary Fiber‐Derived Microbial Butyrate Suppresses ILC2‐Dependent Airway Inflammation in COPD
Authors: Jiang Min , Wang Jing , Li Zheng , Xu Dan , Jing Jing , Li Fengsen , Ding Jianbing , Li Qifeng
Published: July 2024

Group 2 innate lymphoid cells (ILC2) strongly modulate COPD pathogenesis. However, the significance of microbiota in ILC2s remains unelucidated. Herein, we investigated the immunomodulatory role of short‐chain fatty acids (SCFAs) in regulating ILC2‐associated airway inflammation and explores its associated mechanism in COPD. In particular, we assessed the SCFA‐mediated regulation of survival, proliferation, and cytokine production in lung sorted ILC2s. To elucidate butyrate action in ILC2‐driven inflammatory response in COPD models, we administered butyrate to BALB/c mice via drinking water. We revealed that SCFAs, especially butyrate, derived from dietary fiber fermentation by gut microbiota inhibited pulmonary ILC2 functions and suppressed both IL‐13 and IL‐5 synthesis by murine ILC2s. Using in vivo and in vitro experimentation, we validated that butyrate significantly ameliorated ILC2‐induced inflammation. We further demonstrated that butyrate suppressed ILC2 proliferation and GATA3 expression. Additionally, butyrate potentially utilized histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibition to enhance NFIL3 promoter acetylation, thereby augmenting its expression, which eventually inhibited cytokine production in ILC2s. Taken together, the aforementioned evidences demonstrated a previously unrecognized role of microbial‐derived SCFAs on pulmonary ILC2s in COPD. Moreover, our evidences suggest that metabolomics and gut microbiota modulation may prevent lung inflammation of COPD.
Evaluation of the Physicochemical, Microbiological Quality and Acceptability of Nectars and Jams from Vitex doniana Fruit
Authors: Barry Poussian Raymond , Gorga Kourfom , Ouedraogo Elisabeth Rakisewendé , Konkobo Frédéric Anderson , Roamba Edwige Noelle , Tiendrebeogo Salamata , Diao Mamounata , Zongo Sandrine , Santara Balamoussa , Konaté Kiessoun , Dicko Mamoudou Hama
Published: July 2024

This study consisted in the formulation and evaluation of the organoleptic, physicochemical, and microbiological qualities of nectars and jam prepared from Vitex doniana fruit. Nectars (five types) consisted of two acidulated with lemon, two acidulated with tamarind with pH values of 3.45 and 3.55, and a control. Jams (three types) were made as one acidulated with lemon, one acidulated with tamarind with a pH value of 3.88, and a control with a pH value of 4.44. The Brix values were 10.75 and 60.00 for all nectars and jam, respectively. The total sugar content of the nectars ranged from 9.52 ± 0.04 (NC1) to 9.11 ± 0.03% (T) and that of the jams from 58.27 ± 0.02% to 49.97 ± 0.01%. It appeared that prepared nectar and jam samples were of good microbiological quality, confirming compliance with good hygiene and manufacturing practices throughout the process and compliance with Algerian and Luxembourg standards.
Barriers and Solutions to the Gap between Theory and Practice in Nursing Services: A Systematic Review of Qualitative Evidence
Authors: Singh Kalpana , Alomari Albara Mohammad Ali , Sayed Hashim Mohamed Al , Mannethodi Kamaruddeen , Kunjavara Jibin , Joy George V. , Hassan Nesiya , Martinez Ederlie , Lenjawi Badriya Al
Published: July 2024

Background. The phenomenon of theory‐practice gap has endured within the field of nursing from the era of Florence Nightingale until today, persistently manifesting negative consequences within the profession by accentuating the dichotomy between theoretical understanding and the practical dimensions of nursing. This prevalent issue necessitates comprehensive examination to unveil all the circumstances and variables that fuel the gap, along with exploring viable resolutions to bridge these divides. Objective. To identify, summarize, and synthesize literature on the causes leading to theory‐practice gaps and solutions in nursing profession. Methods. MEDLINE, PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, EMCARE, ERIC, and Ovid were searched from 2012 to December 2022. Eligible reviews addressed causes of the theory to practice gap in nursing. Extracted data from included reviews were synthesized using guidelines for meta‐synthesis along with the JBI Critical Appraisal Checklist for qualitative research. Result. The analysis of studies yielded 22 significant findings, subsequently categorized into six thematic areas based on their contextual similarity. Following this, a meta‐aggregation process combined these categories, generating two synthesized findings: (1) barriers for the gap and (2) facilitators for the gap. Barriers for the gap had three subcategories: “clinical life challenges,” “misconception of clinical nursing,” and “lack of collaboration between universities and clinical settings.” The second synthesis was “Facilitators for the gap” which had two subcategories: “create clinically culture‐based content” and “develop clinically based curriculum.” Conclusion. This review provides a comprehensive summary of the current understanding of barriers and facilitators influencing the theory‐practice gap in the field of nursing. To effectively reduce this gap in nursing care, stakeholders such as regulatory bodies, healthcare professionals, and academic institutions must take into account various contextual factors while recognizing the ever‐evolving nature of the healthcare environment.
Total Thickness Bilateral Rupture of the Rectus Abdominis: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Suhail Dernas , Smith Olivia , Lim Philip , Chintapatla Srinivas
Published: July 2024

Rupture of the rectus abdominis is a rare condition. We describe the case of a young male trainee paratrooper who presented with sudden onset severe lower abdominal pain that occurred during military training. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed full‐thickness bilateral rupture of the rectus abdominis. Our management involved injecting botulinum toxin into the rectus muscles preoperatively, reconstructing the rectus muscles, and placing a supportive biosynthetic mesh. Postoperatively, our patient could walk pain‐free at 3 weeks, jog pain‐free at 10 weeks, and run up to 2 miles at 25 weeks. As there is no consensus on the management of this rare injury, we conducted a literature review on all cases reporting rupture of the rectus abdominis from the year 2000. After comparing the outcomes of conservatively versus surgically managed patients, we can conclude that generally, management of such defects is dependent on size, severity, and patient factors; however, surgical treatment yields comparable results to conservative treatment.
Figure 1 from KRAS Promotes GLI2-Dependent Transcription during Pancreatic Carcinogenesis
Authors: Sigafoos Ashley N. , Tolosa Ezequiel J. , Carr Ryan M. , Fernandez-Barrena Maite G. , Almada Luciana L. , Pease David R. , Hogenson Tara L. , Raja Arul Glancis L. , Mousavi Fatemeh , Sen Sandhya , Vera Renzo E. , Marks David L. , Flores Luis F. , LaRue-Nolan Kayla C. , Wu Chen , Bamlet William R. , Vrabel Anne M. , Sicotte Hugues , Schenk Erin L. , Smyrk Thomas C. , Zhang Lizhi , Rabe Kari G. , Oberg Ann L. , Zaphiropoulos Peter G. , Chevet Eric , Graham Rondell P. , Hagen Catherine E. , di Magliano Marina P. , Elsawa Sherine F. , Pin Christopher L. , Mao Junhao , McWilliams Robert R. , Fernandez-Zapico Martin E.
Published: July 2024

Gli2 promotes Kras-driven PDAC progression in vivo.A, Representation of animal crosses to generate model KCRG mice using CRG and KC mice. B, Kaplan–Meier curve depicting survival in KC and KCRG animals (log-rank test, P = 0.0058). C, Pie charts representing percentage of nontumor and adenocarcinoma incidence in KC (n = 13) and KCRG (n = 15) mice. D, Representative H&E stain of KC and KCRG mice depicting moderately differentiated and poorly differentiated adenocarcinoma. Scale bar, 100 μm. E, Pie charts representing percentage incidence of chronic pancreatitis, moderately differentiated adenocarcinoma, and poorly differentiated adenocarcinoma in Cre (n = 9), CRG (n = 7), KC (n = 13), and KCRG (n = 15) animals.