bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Robustness of prefabricated construction supply chain network against underload cascading failure
Authors: Du Qiang , Li Shasha , Zhang Yani , Zhang Yerong
Published: June 2024

A prefabricated construction supply chain(PCSC) is a complex network with high interdependency between entities. After disturbance, it is prone to cascading failure, leading to project delays or budget overruns. Therefore, it is necessary to model a robust network against cascading failure to achieve a sustainable prefabricated construction system. This study explores the functional robustness of a prefabricated construction supply chain network (PCSCN) against underload cascading failure. First, the PCSCN is constructed as a three-echelon supply chain network based on complex network theory, which can characterize the general characteristics of PCSC and provide the network foundation for the subsequent numerical simulation research. Then, a more realistic underload cascading failure model that adds the new element of substitute nodes is established to describe load loss propagation in the PCSCN. Finally, the Order Fulfillment Rate(OFR) is used as the robustness index to quantify network robustness from a functional perspective. The numerical simulation results indicate that in the PCSCN, the larger the initial load is, the more important the node, and component manufacturers are more important than building material suppliers. In addition, the node capacity upper bound parameter α has a positive relationship with robustness, the failure coefficient β has a negative relationship, and the edge weight adjustment coefficient θ has no significant impact on robustness. This research can provide guidance for developing cascade control and defense strategies in PCSCN risk management.
„Ich wollte Übungsvideos während der Therapie aufnehmen“ – APP-Entwickler Jochen Primmer im Porträt
Authors: Palisi Anna
Published: June 2024

Eine App, die den therapeutischen Alltag genau so optimiert, wie man es sich wünscht – Ideen dazu hatten sicherlich schon viele Physiotherapeut*innen. Jochen Primmer wollte es nicht bei der Idee belassen und setzte alles daran, eine persönliche App für sich und seine Klientel zu entwickeln.
Die tatsächliche Ursache finden – Differenzierung ausstrahlender Schmerzen
Authors: Luomajoki Hannu , Taxer Bernhard
Published: June 2024

Patient*innen mit ausstrahlenden Schmerzen begegnen einem oft im Praxisalltag. Die genaue Ursache zu erforschen, ist jedoch eine Herausforderung. In diesem Artikel stellen wir einen praktischen Clinical-Reasoning-Ansatz bei der subjektiven und objektiven Untersuchung vor.
Noch zeitgemäß? – Bauchbinden nach Laparotomie
Authors: Eidenberger Margit
Published: June 2024

Große Bauchoperationen ziehen häufig eine lange Genesung nach sich. Mit Bauchbinden möchte man Abhilfe schaffen, da sie eine schnellere Mobilisierung und eine Atemerleichterung ermöglichen sollen. Doch die Wissenschaft ist sich unsicher – klare Empfehlungen zum Einsatz an sich sowie zur Dauer fehlen bislang.
„Training braucht Chaos“ – Interview mit Prof. Dr. Jeremy Lewis
Authors: Klien Sebastian , Löscher Sebastian
Published: June 2024

Prof. Dr. Jeremy Lewis sieht seine Rolle in der Physiotherapie nicht mehr darin, Probleme zu „reparieren". Vielmehr möchte er Menschen darin unterstützen, geliebte Aktivitäten wieder bestmöglich auszuführen. Damit einher geht auch seine Auffassung, dass Training chaotisch sein sollte. Außerdem faszinieren ihn die Möglichkeiten der Virtual Reality in der Physiotherapie, unter anderem als Werkzeug für „Symptom Modification“.
LVAs in a Pedicled SIEA Flap for the Treatment of Recurrent Lymphocele of the Groin Using Superficial Veins of the Flap for Lymphovenous Anastomosis: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Facchin Federico , Fritsche Elmar , Franchi Alberto
Published: June 2024

Persistent lymphocele of the groin is a complication of groin surgery that can severely impact the quality of life. The restoration of the interrupted lymphatic pathway is considered by many authors the ideal treatment to prevent a recurrence. However, multiple aspiration procedures and surgical revisions can compromise the availability of local veins needed for a lymphovenular bypass surgery. In addition, surgical debridement of a long-standing lymphocele can generate extensive dead space and contour deformity. A flap delivering additional venules for trans-flap lymphovenular anastomoses (LVAs) can overcome both problems by providing soft tissue and competent veins harvested outside the zone of injury.

A successful case of severe groin lymphocele treated with trans-flap LVAs from an abdominal-based flap is presented. The patient was referred to us for a recurrent lymphocele developed in the right groin after lipoma excision that persisted despite multiple surgical attempts. After the identification of patent and draining inguinal lymphatic vessels, a pinch test was used to design a mini-abdominoplasty superficial inferior epigastric artery flap. The superficial veins of the cranial incision were identified and anastomosed to the lymphatic vessels after the pedicled flap harvested and insetted in the groin.

The early restoration of lymphatic drainage and the optimal aesthetic outcome supports the combined approach offered by trans-flap LVAs as a valuable therapeutic option for severe and persistent lymphocele.
Expanding the Phenotypic Spectrum of GRIN1 Encephalopathy: Two Pediatric Patients with Atypical Findings
Authors: Loos Mariana , Juanes Matias , Gallo Adolfo , Martín María Eugenia , Reyes Gabriela , Veneruzzo Gabriel , Rugilo Carlos , Alonso Cristina , Caraballo Roberto
Published: June 2024

Introduction GRIN1 encephalopathy is an emerging genetic entity due to de novo monoallelic or biallelic pathogenic variants in the GRIN1 gene that impair the function of the GluN1 subunit of the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor. Here, we describe two patients with GRIN1 encephalopathy with an uncommon neuroradiological pattern.

Cases Presentation Two boys presented with a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by severe cognitive impairment, autistic features, hand stereotyped movements, self-injurious behavior, and hyperkinetic movements. They were nonverbal and did not acquire the ability to walk. Both developed epileptic encephalopathy with epileptic spasms. Magnetic resonance imaging of the brain showed bilateral hippocampal sclerosis in both, and one of them showed multiple cortical lesions with diffusion restriction. Two relevant missense variants in the GRIN1 gene were identified by a next-generation sequencing panel, one was novel (c.1927A > G-p.(Ile643Val)) and the other (c.2530C > T-p.(Arg844Cys)) was previously reported associated with GRIN1-neurodevelopmental disorder. Both variants are predicted to affect the normal function of the GluN1 subunit and were classified as likely pathogenic and pathogenic, respectively.

Conclusion The association of severe cognitive impairment, autistic features with hand stereotypies, self-injurious behavior, and hyperkinetic movements in patients with epileptic encephalopathy are characteristic of GRIN1 encephalopathy. The hippocampal sclerosis and cortical lesions, similar to those found in NMDA autoimmune encephalitis, observed in these patients expand the neuroradiological features of this entity.
Development of multi-layer electrochromic polymer display for remotely tunable green-cyan contact lens
Authors: Khaldi A. , Menez H. , Murat Q. , Sallenave X. , Vidal F. , Aubert P-H. , Dupont L. , de Bougrenet de la Tocnaye J-L.
Published: June 2024

The design of the electrochromic component of an instrumented contact lens capable of dynamically modifying its color is presented. The device is based on two electrochromic pi-conjugated polymers (CPs) deposited on two electrodes separated by an electrolyte medium. Yellow and cyan electrochromic CPs with two color states are combined to provide a tuneable tint of the eye iris, from green to cyan. The device can switch from green, in which both electrodes are colored, to cyan, in which only the cyan electrode is colored. The additive microsystem process with successive assembling steps allowing the realization of the bichromatic cell in the scleral contact lens is presented, as well as the characterization of the colorimetry and switching dynamics.
Design of frequency and beam reconfigurable antenna based on encoded reflectors for Wi-Fi and IoT applications
Authors: Jiao Ziyi , Zhao Yutong
Published: June 2024

A frequency and beam reconfigurable antenna based on encoded reflectors for Wi-Fi and IoT applications is proposed in this paper. By modifying the traditional Alford antenna, extending the transmission line, adding radiation arms, and loading PIN diodes, the frequency reconfigurable function can be realized. Then, the three-layer reflectors are loaded around the antenna. The pattern reconfigurable function of the antenna can be achieved by encoding the operating states of the PIN diodes on the reflectors. The antenna is fed from the bottom via a coaxial transmission line, and the dimension of the antenna is 0.99λ0 × 0.99λ0. The simulated and measured results show that the working frequencies of the antenna can be switched between 1.65, 2, and 2.4 GHz with bandwidths of 2.4%, 4.4%, and 1.2%, gains of 3, 4.5, and 2 dBi, and efficiencies of 48.8%, 75.0%, and 49.6% in directional mode, respectively. The antenna works in omnidirectional radiation mode with a scanning accuracy of 10°, bandwidths of 6.6%, 4.9%, and 0.8%, gains of 0.3, 0.52, and −2.8 dBi, and efficiencies of 73.1%, 74.1%, and 51.9% at 1.65, 2, and 2.4 GHz, respectively, when the PIN diodes are tuned in off states. The antenna proposed in this paper offers several advantages, including a wider frequency band, a broader angular range, and higher precision compared to other frequency and pattern reconfigurable antennas. The antenna can be utilized for Wi-Fi and IoT communication, thereby reducing the number of antennas, enhancing communication quality and accuracy, and improving device integration.
Application of dust acoustic waves as THz polarizer: Numerical investigations
Authors: Li Peng-Fei , Zhao Yi-Ping , Zhou Hong-Ying , Yang Wei , Du Cheng-Ran
Published: June 2024

In this article, we perform a numerical investigation on the polarization of a terahertz wave transmitting through a dust acoustic wave. Assuming a triangular waveform of the particle number density in the dust acoustic wave, the transmission characteristics are calculated using the finite-difference time-domain method. It is shown that dust acoustic waves can function as a polarizer to control the polarization states of the terahertz wave, and the conversion efficiency depends on the parameters of the dust acoustic wave, such as the particle number density and the thickness of particle cloud.
Numerical analysis of jet noise for nozzles with different throat sizes
Authors: Hou Yating , Zhang Junzhu , Nie Pengfei , Han Xingcheng , Wang Liming
Published: June 2024

To propose a method for testing the dynamic change rate of the throat diameter based on the characteristics of the jet noise field, this study measured the effect of the size variation of the throat diameter on the jet noise during engine nozzle operation. Steady-state flow field simulation and transient noise simulation based on the Ffowcs Williams–Hawkings equation were carried out using large-eddy simulation for nozzles with different sizes of the throat diameter. The jet noise’s sound pressure level (SPL) is discussed and analyzed. By performing a Fourier transform on the noise signal obtained from the simulation, the influence rule of throat diameter size on the magnitude and frequency characteristics of jet noise is analyzed. The results show that the jet noise signal mainly manifests in the low-frequency region. With a gradual increase in frequency, the corresponding amplitude will first increase and then decrease. The effect of the change in the nozzle throat size on the structure of the jet wave system is more prominent; with the increase in the throat diameter, the SPL of the jet noise tends to increase, and the peak frequency of the SPL tends to decrease. The size of the nozzle throat diameter affects the change in the main frequency of the noise, which decreases as the nozzle throat diameter becomes larger.
Using emergency department data to define a ‘mental health presentation’ – implications of different definitions on estimates of emergency department mental health workload
Authors: Goyal Nikita , Proper Edmund , Lin Phyllis , Ahmad Usman , John-White Marietta , O’Reilly Gerard M. , Craig Simon S.
Published: June 2024

Objective This study aimed to describe and compare the proportion of patients classified as an emergency department (ED) mental health presentation under different definitions, including the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) definition. Methods This retrospective cohort study enrolled all patients that presented to the EDs of a multi-centre Victorian health service between 1 January 2020 and 30 June 2023. Varying definitions of a mental health presentation were applied to each ED attendance, applying the current AIHW definition (using selected diagnosis codes), broader diagnosis-based coding, the presenting complaint recorded at triage and whether the patient was seen by or referred to the emergency psychiatric service (EPS). The proportion of all ED presentations meeting each definition and any overlap between definitions were calculated. The agreement between each definition and the AIHW definition was evaluated using Kappa’s coefficient. Results There were 813,078 presentations to ED of which 34,248 (4.2%) met the AIHW definition for a mental health presentation. Throughout the study, 45,376 (5.6%) patients were seen and/or referred to EPS, and 36,160 (4.4%) patients were allocated a mental health presenting complaint by triage staff. There was moderate interrater agreement between these definitions, with a kappa statistic (95% confidence interval) between the AIHW definition and a mental health presenting complaint recorded at triage of 0.58 (0.58–0.59) and between the AIHW definition and review by EPS of 0.58 (0.57–0.58). Conclusions The AIHW definition is a conservative measure of ED mental health presentations and may underestimate emergency psychiatry workload in Australian EDs.
Functional annotation of paclobutrazol-treated mango rhizospheric soil reveals the recruitment of plant growth-promoting and xenobiotic compound-degrading bacterial species
Authors: Singh V. K. , Soni Sumit K. , Shukla Pradeep K. , Bajpai Anju
Published: June 2024

Context The soil microbiome governs plant and soil health through nutrient cycling, soil restructuring, degradation of xenobiotics, and growth regulation. Paclobutrazol (PBZ) is a plant growth regulator and is generally used for flowering induction, especially in alternate bearers like mango. However, the negative effects of PBZ on soil microorganisms and other living organisms are also linked to its excessive use and long-term persistence in soil. Aims We hypothesise that PBZ changes the soil microbial community and linked functions and consequently can alter agricultural productivity. Methods High-throughput sequencing was used to determine the shifting of functional diversity of bacteria in control and PBZ-treated soils of mango orchards. Key results The functional annotation of soil bacteria by COGNIZER tools revealed a higher abundance of genes, related proteins, enzymes, and metabolic pathways that are involved in either the degradation or efflux of xenobiotic compounds and nutrient recycling. Conclusions This research demonstrates how the application of PBZ modifies the rhizosphere’s functional diversity by recruiting microorganisms that aid in growth-regulating processes and, in turn, regulate arboreal phenology. Additionally, the microbial bioremediation of PBZ in mango orchards was established by this investigation. Implications The impact of soil microbial function in mango orchards may lay a scientific foundation for PBZ application and assessment of the PBZ influence on agricultural soil ecosystems.
Giant elastocaloric effect at low temperatures in TmVO
4
and implications for cryogenic cooling
Authors: Zic Mark P. , Ikeda Matthias S. , Massat Pierre , Hollister Patrick M. , Ye Linda , Rosenberg Elliott W. , Straquadine Joshua A. W. , Li Yuntian , Ramshaw B. J. , Fisher Ian R.
Published: June 2024

Adiabatic decompression of paraquadrupolar materials has significant potential as a cryogenic cooling technology. We focus on TmVO

4

, an archetypal material that undergoes a continuous phase transition to a ferroquadrupole-ordered state at 2.15 K. Above the phase transition, each Tm ion contributes an entropy of

k
B

ln
2

due to the degeneracy of the crystal electric field groundstate. Owing to the large magnetoelastic coupling, which is a prerequisite for a material to undergo a phase transition via the cooperative Jahn–Teller effect, this level splitting, and hence the entropy, can be readily tuned by externally induced strain. Using a dynamic technique in which the strain is rapidly oscillated, we measure the adiabatic elastocaloric response of single-crystal TmVO

4

, and thus experimentally obtain the entropy landscape as a function of strain and temperature. The measurement confirms the suitability of this class of materials for cryogenic cooling applications and provides insight into the dynamic quadrupole strain susceptibility.
Please explain what this diagnosis means because I don’t quite understand
Authors: Kiełkiewicz-Janowiak Agnieszka , Zabielska Magdalena
Published: June 2024

Hospital discharge documents (HDDs) containing treatment information and recovery recommendations often cause
concern or even stress for patients. Studies have shown that the language used in the document is often incomprehensible to the
patient and seems intended mostly for (other) medical professionals. The aim of this article is to examine the discursive process
of deconstructing medical knowledge encoded in HDDs through online dialogue between users of an open health-related forum in
Polish. The analysis has revealed the discursive ways of sharing information and offering support by translating from Latin into
Polish, converting from specialist to lay diction or explaining the way institutional conventions are applied in the document.
Providing expertise and implicit reassurance in the course of dialogic interaction facilitates successful recovery. The
conclusions from this exploratory analysis are hoped to increase the awareness of the parties involved of the function and
significance of the medical documentation genre in question.
Gain-of-function human UNC93B1 variants cause systemic lupus erythematosus and chilblain lupus
Authors: David Clémence , Arango-Franco Carlos A. , Badonyi Mihaly , Fouchet Julien , Rice Gillian I. , Didry-Barca Blaise , Maisonneuve Lucie , Seabra Luis , Kechiche Robin , Masson Cécile , Cobat Aurélie , Abel Laurent , Talouarn Estelle , Béziat Vivien , Deswarte Caroline , Livingstone Katie , Paul Carle , Malik Gulshan , Ross Alison , Adam Jane , Walsh Jo , Kumar Sathish , Bonnet Damien , Bodemer Christine , Bader-Meunier Brigitte , Marsh Joseph A. , Casanova Jean-Laurent , Crow Yanick J. , Manoury Bénédicte , Frémond Marie-Louise , Bohlen Jonathan , Lepelley Alice
Published: June 2024

UNC93B1 is a transmembrane domain protein mediating the signaling of endosomal Toll-like receptors (TLRs). We report five families harboring rare missense substitutions (I317M, G325C, L330R, R466S, and R525P) in UNC93B1 causing systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) or chilblain lupus (CBL) as either autosomal dominant or autosomal recessive traits. As for a D34A mutation causing murine lupus, we recorded a gain of TLR7 and, to a lesser extent, TLR8 activity with the I317M (in vitro) and G325C (in vitro and ex vivo) variants in the context of SLE. Contrastingly, in three families segregating CBL, the L330R, R466S, and R525P variants were isomorphic with respect to TLR7 activity in vitro and, for R525P, ex vivo. Rather, these variants demonstrated a gain of TLR8 activity. We observed enhanced interaction of the G325C, L330R, and R466S variants with TLR8, but not the R525P substitution, indicating different disease mechanisms. Overall, these observations suggest that UNC93B1 mutations cause monogenic SLE or CBL due to differentially enhanced TLR7 and TLR8 signaling.
H− production in hydrogen DC glow discharge
Authors: Lopaev D V , Mankelevich Yu A , Kropotkin A N , Voloshin D G , Rakhimova T V
Published: June 2024

The H− ion dynamics in the positive column of H2 DC glow discharge was studied by the laser photodetachment technique in a wide range of pressure, 0.1–3 Torr, and current, 1–30 mA, which cover a range of E/N from ∼40 Td up to ∼170 Td. Using a partial modulation of the discharge current, it is shown that the H−concentration follows H atom dynamics due to a fast detachment reaction with the atoms; the higher the H density, the lower the H–/n
e ratio. The dynamics of H atom density during discharge modulation was measured by time-resolved actinometry on Ar atoms, while H2 vibrational temperature was estimated by comparing measured and simulated H2 VUV absorption spectra. The analysis of the experimental dependencies of H− and H/H2 on the discharge parameters allowed estimating the effective rate constant of H− production in the discharge as a function of the reduced electric field. For this discharge model, self-consistent state-to-state vibrational kinetics as well as H2 highly excited electronic states were developed. The main processes that contribute to H− production and loss are discussed in detail. Dissociative attachment to vibrationally excited H2(v) molecules is the main channel of H
–
production but occurs via the excitation of the well-known low-energy (
ϵ

th ≈ 3 eV) shape resonance of H2
−(X2Σu
+) only at low E/N. At high E/N, the H– production mostly occurs via the excitation of high-energy H2
− states, such as H2
–(B2Σg
+, A2Σg
+, C2Πu) and Feshbach resonances similar to H2
−(2Σg
+) Rydberg state.
Broadband achromatic transmission stealth cloak based on all dielectric metasurfaces
Authors: Li Yanling , Xu Jianfeng , Liu Fuhai , Xu Lizhen , Fang Bo , Li Chenxia
Published: June 2024

The emergence of metasurface technology has brought innovation to the design of optical devices, and many optical devices based on metasurface have been proposed. However, the inherent dispersion of metasurface structures limits their ability to operate at wide frequencies. By changing the geometric parameters of the metasurface unit structure, the unit structure has achromatic properties on the basis of satisfying the phase gradient. Numerical simulation results demonstrate that the proposed multilayer transmissive metasurface stealth cloak has broadband stealth function in the frequency range of 0.7 to 0.77 THz. Achromatic broadband metasurface stealth devices provide new ideas for the design of broadband metasurface stealth devices, and also promote the research of other broadband metasurface optical devices.
Constraints on inflation with null energy condition violation from advanced LIGO and advanced Virgo's first three observing runs
Authors: Chen Zu-Cheng , Liu Lang
Published: June 2024

The null energy condition (NEC) is a cornerstone of general relativity, and its violation could leave observable imprints in the cosmic gravitational wave spectrum. Theoretical models suggest that NEC violations during inflation can amplify the primordial tensor power spectrum, leading to distinct features in the stochastic gravitational wave background (SGWB). In this work, we search for these NEC-violating signatures in the SGWB using data from Advanced LIGO and Advanced Virgo's first three observing runs. Our analysis reveals no statistically significant evidence of such signals, allowing us to place stringent upper limits on the tensor power spectrum amplitude, P

T,2, during the second inflationary stage. Specifically, we find that P

T,2 ≲ 0.15 at a 95% confidence level. Notably, this upper limit is consistent with constraints derived from pulsar timing array observations, reinforcing the hypothesis that NEC violations during inflation could explain the signal detected by pulsar timing arrays. Our findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the early Universe and highlight the potential of current and future gravitational wave experiments in probing the physics of inflation and NEC violations.
Feasibility of using optical Cherenkov radiation for non-relativistic ion beam diagnostics
Authors: Đurnić B. , Potylitsyn A. , Bogdanov A. , Gogolev S.
Published: June 2024

In this paper, we propose to use quasi-monochromatic Cherenkov spectral lines for ion beam diagnostics. As representatives of light and heavy ions, we use C12 and Au197 ions, respectively. First, using the Geant4 toolkit, we determine the ionization lost energy as a function of the radiator penetration depth. After that, we use those data in the polarization currents method to compare the theoretical spectral lines with and without ionization losses. We also use the real-beam polarization currents method to analyze real-beam and setup parameters affecting the accuracy of the beam diagnostics. We emphasize that the precision of refractive index measurement might be a source of inaccuracy in ion beam diagnostics. Nevertheless, according to the provided data, we can expect that the method for measuring Cherenkov quasi-monochromatic spectral lines should be applicable for beam-diagnostics purposes, especially for lighter ions.
Bionic design of thin-walled bilinear tubes with excellent crashworthiness inspired by glass sponge structures
Authors: Liu Yansong , Zou Meng , Qi Yingchun , Chen Lining , Wang Zhaoyang , Song Jiafeng , He Lianbin
Published: June 2024

In order to enhance energy absorption, this study draws inspiration from the diagonal bilinear robust square lattice structure found in deep-sea glass sponges, proposing a design for thin-walled structures with superior folding capabilities and high strength-to-weight ratio. Firstly, the crashworthiness of bionic glass sponge tube (BGSTO) is compared with that of equal-wall-thickness equal-mass four-X tube through both experiments and simulations, and it is obtained that the specific energy absorption of BGSTO is increased by 78.64%. And the crashworthiness of BGSTO is also most significant compared to that of multicellular tubes with the similar number of crystalline cells. Additionally, we found that the double-line spacing of the glass sponge can be freely adjusted without changing the material amount. Therefore, based on BGSTO, we designed two other double-line structures, BGSTA and BGSTB. Then with equal wall thickness and mass as a prerequisite, this study proceeds to design and compare the energy absorption properties of three bilinear thin-walled tubes in both axial and lateral cases. The deformation modes and crashworthiness of the three types of tubes with variable bilinear spacing (βO/A/B
) are comparatively analysed. The improved complex proportional assessment (COPRAS) synthesis decision is used to obtain that BGSTO exhibits superior crashworthiness over the remaining two kinds of tubes. Finally, a surrogate model is established to perform multi-objective optimization on the optimal bilinear configuration BGSTO selected by the COPRAS method.
Cytokine-induced killer cells-mediated chlorin e6-loaded gold nanostars for targeted NIR imaging and immuno-photodynamic combination therapy for lung cancer
Authors: Li Chenlu , Liu Zimei , Cheng Zhonghua , Gu Shuo , Zhao Weiyong , Zhang Qian , Feng Zhen
Published: June 2024

Recently, cytokine-induced killer (CIK) cells have a broad application prospect in the comprehensive diagnosis and treatment of tumors owing to their unique characteristics of killing and targeting malignant tumors. Herein, we report a facile strategy for synthesis of monodisperse gold nanostars (GNSs) based on PEGylation and co-loaded with the photosensitizer chlorin e6 (Ce6) to form GNSs-PEG@Ce6 NPs. Then employing CIK cells loading the as-prepared GNSs-PEG@Ce6 NPs to fabricate a CIK cells-based drug delivery system (GNSs-PEG@Ce6-CIK) for lung cancer. Among them, GNSs was functioned as transport media, Ce6 acted as the near-infrared (NIR) fluorescence imaging agent and photodynamic therapy (PDT), and CIK cells served as targeting vectors for immunotherapy, which can increase the efficiency of tumor enrichment and treatment effect. The results of cellular experiments demonstrated that GNSs-PEG@Ce6 NPs had good dispersibility, water solubility and low toxicity under physiological conditions, and the cultured CIK cells had strong anti-tumor properties. Subsequently, GNSs-PEG@Ce6-CIK could effectively inhibit the growth of A549 cells under the exposure of 633 nm laser, which showed stronger killing effect than that of GNSs-PEG@Ce6 NPs or CIK cells. In addition, they showed good tumor targeting and tumor synergistic killing activity in vivo. Therefore, GNSs-PEG@Ce6-CIK was constructed for targeted NIR fluorescence imaging, enhanced PDT and immunotherapy of lung cancer.
The role of pore size and mechanical properties on the accumulation, retention and distribution of F98 glioblastoma cells in macroporous hydrogels
Authors: Delattre Lisa , Naasri Sahar , Solano Angela Giraldo , Therriault Hélène , Bergeron-Fortier Simon , Moreau Vaiana , Liberelle Benoît , Crescenzo Gregory De , Lauzon Marc-Antoine , Faucheux Nathalie , Paquette Benoit , Virgilio Nick
Published: June 2024

Glioblastoma (GBM) accounts for half of all central nervous system tumors. Once the tumor is removed, many GBM cells remain present near the surgical cavity and infiltrate the brain up to a distance of 20–30 mm, resulting in recurrence a few months later. GBM remains incurable due to the limited efficiency of current treatments, a result of the blood-brain barrier and sensitivity of healthy brain tissues to chemotherapy and radiation. A new therapeutic paradigm under development to treat GBM is to attract and accumulate GBM cells in a cancer cell trap inserted in the surgical cavity after tumor resection. In this work, porous gels were prepared using porous polylactide molds obtained from melt-processed co-continuous polymer blends of polystyrene and polylactide, with an average pore size ranging from 5 μm to over 500 μm. In order to efficiently accumulate and retain GBM brain cancer cells within a macroporous sodium alginate-based hydrogel trap, the pores must have an average diameter superior to 100 μm, with the best results obtained at 225 μm. In that case, the accumulation and retention of F98 GBM cells were more homogeneous, especially when functionalized with RGD adhesion peptides. At an alginate concentration of 1% w/v, the compression modulus reaches 15 kPa, close to the average value of 1–2 kPa reported for brain tissues, while adhesion and retention were also superior compared to 2% w/v gels. Overall, 1% w/v gels with 225 μm pores functionalized with the RGD peptide display the best performances.
Assessing the role of socio-economic factors in shaping the temperature-mortality exposure-response relationship in China
Authors: Shang Jing , Sun Zhaobin , Zhang Xiya , Liu Haimeng , Miao Shiguang , Sulaymon Ishaq Dimeji
Published: June 2024

Non-optimal temperatures significantly influence public health. However, the role of socio-economic factors in modulating health risks associated with non-optimal temperatures varies geographically and among different populations. Thus, the meteorological, air quality, health data, and socio-economic indicators were obtained from 23 districts in North and 48 districts in East China, respectively. Employing a two-stage meta-analysis, the exposure-response relationship was constructed for temperature against mortality from non-accidental causes, cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases, and respiratory illnesses. Furthermore, a non-linear spline regression was applied to assess the impact of socio-economic indicators on the exposure-response relationship and predicted future risks under various Shared Socioeconomic Pathways. The results revealed that the influence of socio-economic factors on the exposure-response curve showed heterogeneity in East China and North China. In North China, the shape of the exposure-response curve changed greatly under different socio-economic levels, while it remained similar in East China. In East China, the relative risk of heat and cold exposure was reduced in regions with high GDP, high levels of public finance, good medical services, and a low proportion of the elderly population. Specifically, the risk of non-accidental deaths due to heat shows a nearly linear negative correlation with per capita GDP in East China, with a decrease of the relative risk by 0.075 for every 10 thousand yuan increase in per capita GDP. Future projections indicate that population aging plays a decisive role in shaping the exposure-response curves. Although economic growth can reduce the risk of heat-related mortality, the combined effect of population aging and economic increase results in steeper exposure-response curves in both hot and cold temperature ranges in the future. In conclusion, although spatial variations in relative risk changes still exist, enhancing the adaptive capacity of populations can mitigate health risks associated with future climate change.
Can government environmental auditing and fiscal transparency promote the green development of heavy-polluting firms?
Authors: Wang Hongxia , Tang Ziru , Zhang Zenglian , Deng Wenyueyang
Published: June 2024

Corporate green development (GD) is critical for realizing China’s double carbon targets, and government environmental auditing is an essential path for supervising the GD behavior of enterprises. However, the effect of government environmental auditing on corporate GD has not been thoroughly investigated, particularly through the path of improving fiscal transparency. This study takes Chinese A-share listed companies in heavily polluting industries from 2011 to 2022 as the sample and uses statistical models to empirically test the effects. The results indicate that government environmental auditing can significantly facilitate corporate GD by improving fiscal transparency. Government auditing functions to checking and preventing environmental pollution issues can promote enterprises’ GD. The function of preventing pollution issues has the most substantial promotion effect. The analysis of regional heterogeneity indicates that government environmental auditing in the western region has the strongest effect. The conclusion of this study provides theoretical support and guidance for strengthening government environmental auditing, improving government fiscal transparency, and promoting the GD of enterprises.
Exploring the influence of stacking sequence on the mechanical properties of flax-ramie bi-quadratic layered hybrid epoxy composites
Authors: Tarun Dittakavi , Ganesan G , Sundar K Syam
Published: June 2024

Over the past two decades, there has been a remarkable surge in the utilization of composites, with fiber-reinforced polymer composites gaining significant traction owing to their commendable structural performance. Concurrently, extensive research has been conducted to assess the behavior of composite materials, focusing on various parameters such as fiber type, lamination order, matrix type, and the inclusion of filler materials. In this study, we investigated the mechanical properties of flax (F)/ramie (R) epoxy hybrid composites, specifically exploring the effects of different lamination sequences. Four distinct lamination sequences were chosen: FFRR, FRFR, FRRF, and RFFR. The composites were fabricated using compression molding techniques, adhering to ASTM standards for the evaluation of mechanical properties including tensile strength, flexural strength, impact strength, and interlaminar shear strength. Among the laminate sequences studied, FRFR exhibited the lowest void content at 4.76%, while RFFR composites showed the highest void content at 16.67%. The most favorable results were observed with FRFR composites, boasting a tensile strength of 77.06 MPa, impact strength of 13.36 kJ m−2, and interlaminar shear strength of 8.13 MPa. Notably, the FFRR composite exhibited the highest flexural strength at 118.09 MPa. Additionally, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis was conducted to investigate surface morphology and identify reasons for failure.
Local coherence by thermalized intra-system coupling
Authors: Kolář Michal , Filip Radim
Published: June 2024

Quantum superposition of energy eigenstates can appear autonomously in a single quantum two-level system coupled to a low-temperature thermal bath, if such coupling has a proper composite nature. We propose here a principally different and more feasible approach employing engineered interactions between two-level systems being thermalized into a global Gibbs state by weakly coupled thermal bath at temperature T. Therefore, in such case quantum coherence appears by a different mechanism, whereas the system-bath coupling does not have to be engineered. We demonstrate such autonomous coherence generation reaching maximum values of coherence. Moreover, it can be alternatively built up by using weaker but collective interaction with several two-level systems. This approach surpasses the coherence generated by the engineered system-bath coupling for comparable interaction strengths and directly reduces phase estimation error in quantum sensing. This represents a necessary step towards the autonomous quantum sensing.
Unavoidable structures in infinite tournaments
Authors: Benford Alistair , DeBiasio Louis , Larson Paul
Published: June 2024

We prove a strong dichotomy result for countably-infinite oriented graphs; that is, we prove that for all countably-infinite oriented graphs

G
G

, either (i) there is a countably-infinite tournament

K
K

such that

G
⊈
K

G\not \subseteq K

, or (ii) every countably-infinite tournament contains a spanning copy of

G
G

. Furthermore, we are able to give a concise characterization of such oriented graphs. Our characterization becomes even simpler in the case of transitive acyclic oriented graphs (i.e. strict partial orders).

For uncountable oriented graphs, we are able to extend the dichotomy result mentioned above to all regular cardinals

κ
\kappa

; however, we are only able to provide a concise characterization in the case when

κ
=

ℵ
1

\kappa =\aleph _1

.
Tauberian theorems on ℝ⁺ and applications
Authors: Jian Wei-Gang , Ding Hui-Sheng
Published: June 2024

Let

f
f

be a bounded and uniformly continuous function from

R

\mathbb {R}

to a Banach space

X
X

and

s
p

(
f
)

\mathbf {sp}(f)

be its Carleman spectrum. A classical Tauberian theorem states that

f
f

is constant if and only if

s
p

(
f
)
⊂
{
0
}

\mathbf {sp}(f) \subset \{ 0 \}

, and

f
f

is

ω
\omega

-periodic if and only if

s
p

(
f
)
⊂

2
π

ω

Z

\mathbf {sp}(f) \subset \frac {2\pi }{\omega } \mathbb {Z}

for some

ω
>
0

\omega >0

. However, one cannot expect analogous results on

R

+

\mathbb {R}^+

since there is a counterexample showing that the case of

R

+

\mathbb {R}^+

contrasts dramatically with the case of

R

\mathbb {R}

. In this paper, we succeed in extending the above classical Tauberian theorem to

R

+

\mathbb {R}^+

and obtain an extension of the well-known Ingham theorem. We also apply our Tauberian theorems to abstract Cauchy problems and improve a result in [Russian Math. 58 (2014), pp. 1–10]. Moreover, as an application, we present an extension of a Katznelson-Tzafriri theorem in [J. Funct. Anal. 103 (1992), pp. 74–84] with weaker assumptions. In addition, it is interesting to note that several of our results and examples show that

S

\mathcal {S}

-asymptotically

ω
\omega

-periodic functions on

R

+

\mathbb {R}^{+}

is just the “natural” analogue of periodic functions on

R

\mathbb {R}

.
The classification of Boolean degree 1 functions in high-dimensional finite vector spaces
Authors: Ihringer Ferdinand
Published: June 2024

We classify the Boolean degree

1
1

functions of

k
k

-spaces in a vector space of dimension

n
n

(also known as Cameron-Liebler classes) over the field with

q
q

elements for

n
≥

n
0

(
k
,
q
)

n \geq n_0(k, q)

. This also implies that two-intersecting sets with respect to

k
k

-spaces do not exist for

n
≥

n
0

(
k
,
q
)

n \geq n_0(k, q)

. Our main ingredient is the Ramsey theory for geometric lattices.
Holomorphic curves in the 6-pseudosphere and cyclic surfaces
Authors: Collier Brian , Toulisse Jérémy
Published: June 2024

The space

H

4
,
2

\mathbf {H}^{4,2}

of vectors of norm

−
1

-1

in

R

4
,
3

\mathbb {R}^{4,3}

has a natural pseudo-Riemannian metric and a compatible almost complex structure. The group of automorphisms of both of these structures is the split real form

G

2
′

\mathsf {G}_2’

. In this paper we consider a class of holomorphic curves in

H

4
,
2

\mathbf {H}^{4,2}

which we call alternating. We show that such curves admit a so called Frenet framing. Using this framing, we show that the space of alternating holomorphic curves which are equivariant with respect to a surface group is naturally parameterized by certain

G

2
′

\mathsf {G}_2’

-Higgs bundles. This leads to a holomorphic description of the moduli space as a fibration over Teichmüller space with a holomorphic action of the mapping class group. Using a generalization of Labourie’s cyclic surfaces, we then show that equivariant alternating holomorphic curves are infinitesimally rigid.
Grassroots Archives
Authors: McDonald Daniel
Published: June 2024

In recent years, coalitions of activists, artists, scholars, and community members have created archives composed of material related to social movements past and present with increasing frequency. These grassroots archives raise questions about the potential role of archives as generative spaces for democratizing history. This article explores this potential and the attendant challenges through a case study on an effort to preserve the memory of activism in São Paulo’s urban peripheries during Brazil’s civil-military dictatorship (1964–85)—an effort in which the author took part amid the rise of the far-right president and former dictatorship supporter Jair Bolsonaro. The postdictatorship culture of censorship and an ever-changing city relentlessly militated against the permanence of memory, not least through the destruction of physical archives and reference points in the urban landscape. The effort to organize and digitize precarious materials unfolded amid a larger campaign by activists to create an archive as part of a new university in the periphery. In this article, the author reflects on his experience working with communities through grassroots archiving to preserve at-risk historical sources, enhance local capacity, and broaden the practice of history beyond the academy.
Ploidy as a leaky reproductive barrier: mechanisms, rates and evolutionary significance of interploidy gene flow
Authors: Bartolić Paolo , Morgan Emma J , Padilla-García Nélida , Kolář Filip
Published: June 2024

Background

Whole-genome duplication (polyploidization) is a dominant force in sympatric speciation, particularly in plants. Genome doubling instantly poses a barrier to gene flow owing to the strong crossing incompatibilities between individuals differing in ploidy. The strength of the barrier, however, varies from species to species and recent genetic investigations revealed cases of rampant interploidy introgression in multiple ploidy-variable species.

Scope

Here, we review novel insights into the frequency of interploidy gene flow in natural systems and summarize the underlying mechanisms promoting interploidy gene flow. Field surveys, occasionally complemented by crossing experiments, suggest frequent opportunities for interploidy gene flow, particularly in the direction from diploid to tetraploid, and between (higher) polyploids. However, a scarcity of accompanying population genetic evidence and a virtual lack of integration of these approaches leave the underlying mechanisms and levels of realized interploidy gene flow in nature largely unknown. Finally, we discuss potential consequences of interploidy genome permeability on polyploid speciation and adaptation and highlight novel avenues that have just recently been opened by the very first genomic studies of ploidy-variable species. Standing in stark contrast with rapidly accumulating evidence for evolutionary importance of homoploid introgression, similar cases in ploidy-variable systems are yet to be documented.

Conclusions

The genomics era provides novel opportunity to re-evaluate the role of interploidy introgression in speciation and adaptation. To achieve this goal, interdisciplinary studies bordering ecology and population genetics and genomics are needed.
Did She or Didn't She? Perceptions of Operative Status of Female Genitalia
Authors: Sasson Daniel C , Sharp Gemma , Placik Otto J
Published: June 2024

Background

Although extensive research has explored why women undergo labiaplasty, little attention has been paid to societal and professional abilities to distinguish between altered and unaltered labia, impacting both patient concerns and broader societal perceptions.

Objectives

This study aimed to evaluate the accuracy of the general public and healthcare professionals in identifying labiaplasty and to pinpoint the misconceptions driving their perceptions. The goal was to inform more effective patient counseling strategies and challenge existing stigmas around cosmetic genital surgery.

Methods

The authors conducted an online survey of 511 lay adults and a group of 21 gynecologists and aesthetic vulvar surgeons. The survey assessed the participants’ ability to detect labiaplasty from images, focusing on aesthetic appearance, hair patterns, and size. The analysis involved Pearson correlation and Z-tests to compare perceptions against actual operative status.

Results

Analysis of the survey findings revealed a pronounced difficulty among participants in accurately discerning labiaplasty, with neither group showing a significant ability to identify surgical alterations. Misinterpretations were notably influenced by expectations of aesthetic appearance, with 49% associating an “odd” or “fake” look with surgery, and hair and size misconceptions also misleading respondents. Additionally, 20% of participants mistakenly related surgical changes to gender-affirming surgery or female genital mutilation.

Conclusions

The study highlights a gap in the ability of both the general public and medical professionals to accurately identify labiaplasty, pointing to a broad misunderstanding of cosmetic genital surgery's visual outcomes. Addressing these misconceptions through targeted education could substantially improve patient counseling and help dismantle the stigmas associated with labiaplasty.

Level of Evidence: 3