bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Basic research on layered geopolymer composites with insulating materials of natural origin
Authors: Bąk Agnieszka , Mikuła Janusz , Oliinyk Inna , Łach Michał
Published: May 2024

New restrictions on carbon dioxide emissions and electricity consumption are currently being introduced around the world. Innovative solutions are being adopted in many countries to reduce CO2 emissions and material and energy consumption. The present work is related to the study of innovative binders based on geopolymers for the production of layered building envelopes. The binders are reinforced with composite bars and containing fibers of natural origin. The natural materials used to produce the samples are completely biodegradable. A 10-mol sodium hydroxide solution with an aqueous solution of sodium silicate was used for alkaline activation of geopolymers. The purpose of the study was to compare and determine the insulating properties of natural fiber-based materials such as coconut mat, jute felt, hemp felt, flax felt, flax wool, hemp wool, flax-jute wool, and to determine the effect of these materials on geopolymer composites, in which 4 layers of natural insulating materials were used, and the composites were reinforced by fiberglass bars. The publication presents the results of physicochemical studies of geopolymerization precursors and natural insulating materials, studies of thermal properties of fibers, mats, felts and wools, morphology of fiber structure and texture, as well as physical and thermal properties of finished multi-layer partitions. The results indicate the great potential of these materials in prefabrication and structural-insulation applications. The fabricated composites using 4 layers of natural fibers showed improved thermal conductivity by as much as 40% (reduced thermal conductivity from 1.36 W/m × K to about 0.8 W/m × K). The work may have future applications in energy-saving and low-carbon construction.
PNPO–PLP axis senses prolonged hypoxia in macrophages by regulating lysosomal activity
Authors: Sekine Hiroki , Takeda Haruna , Takeda Norihiko , Kishino Akihiro , Anzawa Hayato , Isagawa Takayuki , Ohta Nao , Murakami Shohei , Iwaki Hideya , Kato Nobufumi , Kimura Shu , Liu Zun , Kato Koichiro , Katsuoka Fumiki , Yamamoto Masayuki , Miura Fumihito , Ito Takashi , Takahashi Masatomo , Izumi Yoshihiro , Fujita Hiroyuki , Yamagata Hitoshi , Bamba Takeshi , Akaike Takaaki , Suzuki Norio , Kinoshita Kengo , Motohashi Hozumi
Published: May 2024

Oxygen is critical for all metazoan organisms on the earth and impacts various biological processes in physiological and pathological conditions. While oxygen-sensing systems inducing acute hypoxic responses, including the hypoxia-inducible factor pathway, have been identified, those operating in prolonged hypoxia remain to be elucidated. Here we show that pyridoxine 5′-phosphate oxidase (PNPO), which catalyses bioactivation of vitamin B6, serves as an oxygen sensor and regulates lysosomal activity in macrophages. Decreased PNPO activity under prolonged hypoxia reduced an active form of vitamin B6, pyridoxal 5′-phosphate (PLP), and inhibited lysosomal acidification, which in macrophages led to iron dysregulation, TET2 protein loss and delayed resolution of the inflammatory response. Among PLP-dependent metabolism, supersulfide synthesis was suppressed in prolonged hypoxia, resulting in the lysosomal inhibition and consequent proinflammatory phenotypes of macrophages. The PNPO–PLP axis creates a distinct layer of oxygen sensing that gradually shuts down PLP-dependent metabolism in response to prolonged oxygen deprivation.
A traits-based approach to assess aquaculture’s contributions to food, climate change, and biodiversity goals
Authors: Wong Aleah , Frommel Andrea Y. , Sumaila U. Rashid , Cheung William W. L.
Published: May 2024

Aquaculture has the potential to support a sustainable and equitable food system in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) on food security, climate change, and biodiversity (FCB). Biological diversity amongst aquaculture organisms can drive diverse contributions to such goals. Existing studies have assessed the performance of a limited number of taxa in the general context of improving aquaculture production, but few explicitly consider the biological attributes of farmed aquatic taxa at the FCB nexus. Through a systematic literature review, we identify key traits associated with FCB and evaluate the potential of aquaculture to contribute to FCB goals using a fuzzy logic model. The majority of identified traits are associated with food security, and two-thirds of traits linked with food security are also associated with climate change or biodiversity, revealing potential co-benefits of optimizing a single trait. Correlations between FCB indices further suggest that challenges and opportunities in aquaculture are intertwined across FCB goals, but low mean FCB scores suggest that the focus of aquaculture research and development on food production is insufficient to address food security, much less climate or biodiversity issues. As expected, production-maximizing traits (absolute fecundity, the von Bertalanffy growth function coefficient K, macronutrient density, maximum size, and trophic level as a proxy for feed efficiency) highly influence a species’ FCB potential, but so do species preferences for environmental conditions (tolerance to phosphates, nitrates, and pH levels, as well as latitudinal and geographic ranges). Many highly farmed species that are typically associated with food security, especially finfish, score poorly for food, climate, and biodiversity potential. Algae and mollusc species tend to perform well across FCB indices, revealing the importance of non-fish species in achieving FCB goals and potential synergies in integrated multi-trophic aquaculture systems. Overall, this study provides decision-makers with a biologically informed assessment of desirable aquaculture traits and species while illuminating possible strategies to increase support for FCB goals. Our findings can be used as a foundation for studying the socio-economic opportunities and barriers for aquaculture transitions to develop equitable pathways toward FCB-positive aquaculture across nuanced regional contexts.
Facile synthesis and characterization of aza-bridged all-benzenoid quinoidal figure-eight and cage molecules
Authors: Dong Shaoqiang , Han Yi , Tong Zekun , Wang Jinfeng , Zhang Yishan , Li Aisen , Gopalakrishna Tullimilli Y. , Tian Hongkun , Chi Chunyan
Published: May 2024

Fully π-conjugated figure-eight (FEM) and cage (CATPA and CACz) molecules were synthesized via reversible intermolecular Friedel–Crafts alkylation. They could be oxidized to cationic species and showed intramolecular dynamics and AIE behavior.
Construction of porphyrin-based two-dimensional covalent organic frameworks for photocatalytic hydrogen production
Authors: Liu Shaoxing , Wang Ming , Wang Shenglin , Hu Hui , Sun Jiamin , Wang Jianyi , Su Xiaofang , Lu Hui , Gao Yanan
Published: May 2024

With rapid industrial development, the increasing energy consumption has led to severe environmental pollution.
Utilization of a trinuclear Cu-pyrazolate inorganic motif to build multifunctional MOFs
Authors: Saha Sayan , Akhtar Sohel , Pramanik Subhendu , Bala Sukhen , Mondal Raju
Published: May 2024

The current work aims to generate multifunctional MOFs by incorporating a well-known inorganic motif, a trinuclear Cu-pyrazolate [Cu3(μ3-OH)(μ-Pyz)3] (T-CuP) unit, as a node of the network.
In vitro digestion and fermentation characteristics of eight kinds of pulses and suggestions for different populations
Authors: Ji Haihua , Zhong Yadong , Zhang Ziyi , Chen Yu , Zhang Yanli , Bian Shuigen , Yin Junyi , Hu Jielun , Nie Shaoping
Published: May 2024

The study provides insight into the nutrition, digestibility and fermentation of pulses, allowing for personalised dietary advice based on factor analysis.
Headspace volatiles profiles of different spring varieties and a wild relative of wheat flour
Authors: Agarwal Deepa , MacNaughtan William , Liu Chujiao , King Julie , Foster Tim J.
Published: May 2024

Headspace solid-phase microextraction combined with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, elucidated the intricate interplay between physiochemical properties and aroma profiles in wheat flour specimens.
Introduction to memristors and neuromorphic systems
Authors: Chen Xiaodong , Hwang Cheol Seong , van de Burgt Yoeri , Santoro Francesca
Published: May 2024

Xiaodong Chen, Cheol Seong Hwang, Yoeri van de Burgt and Francesca Santoro present a themed collection in Materials Horizons and Nanoscale Horizons gathering the latest developments in memristive materials, device fabrication, characterization and circuit design for neuromorphic systems.
Supported-amine-catalyzed cascade synthesis of spiro-thiazolone-tetrahydrothiophenes: assessing HSA binding activity
Authors: Jain Anshul , Yadav Vinay K. , Kumari Akanksha , Saha Suman K. , Metre Ramesh K. , Bhattacharyya Sudipta , Rana Nirmal K.
Published: May 2024

We devised a sustainable approach utilizing a polystyrene-supported amine catalyst to synthesize spiro-thiazolone-tetrahydrothiophenes, which show exceptional binding affinity with human serum albumin.
Reversal of enantioselectivity in cobalt(ii)-catalyzed asymmetric Michael–alkylation reactions: synthesis of spiro-cyclopropane-oxindoles
Authors: Zhang Jun-Hao , Yang Wei-Jing , Li Ning , Tian Yin , Xie Ming-Sheng , Guo Hai-Ming
Published: May 2024

An asymmetric Michael–alkylation reaction with a reversal of enantioselectivity catalyzed by chiral cobalt complexes is reported, giving spiro-cyclopropane-oxindoles with a complete and controlled switch in stereoselectivity (up to 99% and −98% ee).
Synergistic advances in natural fibre composites: a comprehensive review of the eco-friendly bio-composite development, its characterization and diverse applications
Authors: Nagaraja Santhosh , Anand Praveena Bindiganavile , K. Mohan Kumar , Ammarullah Muhammad Imam
Published: May 2024

Through a critical evaluation of the existing literature, this article provides a detailed summary of NFCs for real-time engineering applications. It also provides insights into sustainability practices through NFCs.
Tumor microenvironment-regulated drug delivery system combined with sonodynamic therapy for the synergistic treatment of breast cancer
Authors: Qian Chao , Zhao Guoliang , Huo Mengping , Su Meixia , Hu Xuexue , Liu Qiang , Wang Lei
Published: May 2024

Co-loading of sonosensitizers and chemotherapeutic drugs into nanocarriers can provide a robust platform to orchestrate the synergistic interplay between chemotherapy and sonodynamic therapy (SDT) in cancer treatment.
Arresting dissolution of two-dimensional metal–organic frameworks enables long life in electrochemical devices
Authors: Dontireddy Gopi M. R. , Suman Satya Prakash , Merino-Gardea Jose L. , Chen Tianyang , Dou Jin-Hu , Banda Harish
Published: May 2024

Electrode dissolution is the primary mode of degradation for two-dimensional metal–organic frameworks (2D cMOFs) under electrochemical polarization. Leveraging low solubility of ligands into MOF design enables long term cycling stability.
Carbon corrosion in low-temperature CO2 electrolysis systems
Authors: Ferrell Jack R. , Rasmussen Mathew , McNeary W. Wilson
Published: May 2024

Mitigation of carbon corrosion, or the use of non-carbon based anodes, is required to achieve the necessary durability for industrial CO2 electrolysis.
Combining fracture mechanics and rheology to investigate the impact of micro-aeration on chocolate oral processing
Authors: Samaras G. , Bikos D. , Cann P. , Masen M. , Hardalupas Y. , Hartmann C. , Vieira J. , Charalambides M. N.
Published: May 2024

This study presents a rigorous mechanical characterisation investigation on milk chocolate with varying porosities, at different temperatures and strain rate levels.
Constructing a highly permeable bioinspired rigid-flexible coupled membrane with a high content of spindle-type MOF: efficient adsorption separation of water-soluble pollutants
Authors: Zhang Ruilong , Zhao Jun , Tian Xiaohua , Ye Jian , Wang Lulu , Akaniro Ifunanya Rejoice , Pan Jianming , Dai Jiangdong
Published: May 2024

We introduced a novel MOF hybrid membrane using a spindle-type MOF, GO, and TA. It demonstrated excellent separation, cycling stability, and pollutant degradation, highlighting its potential for catalytic cleaning and versatile pollutant removal.
High entropy spinel oxide nanoparticles for visible light-assisted photocatalytic degradation of binary mixture of antibiotic pollutants in different water matrixes
Authors: Das Shubhasikha , Kumar Sudhir , Sarkar Suman , Pradhan Debabrata , Tiwary Chandra Sekhar , Chowdhury Shamik
Published: May 2024

The photocatalytic application of magnetic high entropy oxide nanoparticles in water and wastewater treatment processes is exemplified for the first time, purely from a practical perspective.
Chemical pre-lithiation of LiMn2O4 balances the low first cycle efficiency of silicon anodes
Authors: Ko Jesse S. , Tan Bing , Logan Matthew W. , Langevin Spencer A. , Gerasopoulos Konstantinos
Published: May 2024

Prelithiation of LiMn2O4 balances the low first cycle efficiency of silicon anodes for improvements in energy density and prospective cell chemistry enabled by naturally abundant elements.
Federated finger vein presentation attack detection for various clients
Authors: Mu Hengyu , Guo Jian , Liu Xingli , Han Chong , Sun Lijuan
Published: May 2024

Recently, the application of finger vein recognition has become popular. Studies have shown finger vein presentation attacks increasingly threaten these recognition devices. As a result, research on finger vein presentation attack detection (fvPAD) methods has received much attention. However, the current fvPAD methods have two limitations. (1) Most terminal devices cannot train fvPAD models independently due to a lack of data. (2) Several research institutes can train fvPAD models; however, these models perform poorly when applied to terminal devices due to inadequate generalisation. Consequently, it is difficult for threatened terminal devices to obtain an effective fvPAD model. To address this problem, the method of federated finger vein presentation attack detection for various clients is proposed, which is the first study that introduces federated learning (FL) to fvPAD. In the proposed method, the differences in data volume and computing power between clients are considered. Traditional FL clients are expanded into two categories: institutional and terminal clients. For institutional clients, an improved triplet training mode with FL is designed to enhance model generalisation. For terminal clients, their inability is solved to obtain effective fvPAD models. Finally, extensive experiments are conducted on three datasets, which demonstrate the superiority of our method.
SVM classifier based energy management strategy for dual‐source fuel cell hybrid electric vehicles
Authors: Chatterjee Debasis , Biswas Pabitra Kumar , Sain Chiranjit , Roy Amarjit , Islam Md. Minarul , Ustun Taha Selim
Published: May 2024

This study proposes an optimal energy management strategy for dual‐source fuel cell hybrid electric vehicles (FCHEV) utilizing the support vector machine (SVM) classifier. The goal is to optimize power distribution between fuel cells and batteries to enhance vehicle's performance and efficiency. The SVM classifier is trained using a dataset of driving conditions and corresponding optimal power distribution (OPD) values obtained through simulation. The trained classifier predicts real‐time OPD based on driving conditions. In comparison to existing literature, this study conducts a comparative analysis of energy management control strategies like model predictive control (MPC), fuzzy, equivalent consumption minimization strategy (ECMS), proportional‐integral (PI) control, and state machine control (SMC) strategy for FCHEVs using the MATLAB/SIMULINK platform and real‐world driving dataset. The proposed strategy is then tested in a real‐time EV simulator to verify its efficacy. Additionally, this study introduces the SVM classifier technique for selecting the optimal energy management strategy for FCHEVs. Performance analysis using SVM reveals that the MPC control strategy offers the highest efficiency compared to other techniques based on selected features, achieving an average performance of 95% through cross‐validation. This analysis demonstrates the most cost‐effective and fuel‐efficient utilization of electricity flow in a modern energy‐efficient environment.
p53 contributes to the chemotherapeutic drug doxorubicininduced cell death in colorectal cancer cell line HCT116
Authors: Deng Rui
Published: May 2024

Doxorubicin is a commonly used chemotherapy drug for cancer treatment, but its effectiveness varies across different cancer types. p53 is a key factor involved in cell death induced by therapeutic agents. It can be upregulated by Doxorubicin and have a function of apoptosis. To have a further study of the mechanism between p53 and Doxorubicin, we investigated whether p53 play a role in the doxorubicininduced cell death in the colorectal cancer line HCT116. Our finding revealed that p53 was upregulated in HCT116 cells when treated with doxorubicin, and knockdown of p53 decreased the sensitivity of HCT116 cells to doxorubicin. These results suggest that p53 plays an important role in doxorubicin-induced cell death in HCT116 cells, which could contribute to more effective treatment approaches.
Study of the Biomechanical Properties and Microstructure of Trabecular Musculi Pectinati in the Left Atrial Appendage for patients with Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Zhao Shuaishuai , Wang Zidun , Chen Qiang , Wang Liang , Li Zhiyong
Published: May 2024

Aims: (1) Quantitatively characterize the Pseudo Fibrosis Burden (PFB) of Left Atrial Appendage (LAA) Trabecular Musculi Pectinati (TMP) in patients with atrial fibrillation based on histological analysis; (2) Explore the passive dynamic properties of LAA TMP based on uniaxial tensile experiments and determine the hyperelastic constitutive parameters; (3) Explore samples Effects of different storage conditions on the mechanical properties of left atrial appendage TMP. Methods: Fifty TMP were isolated from the resected LAAs of 21 patients with atrial fibrillation and stored (23 strips in the -78°C cryopreservation group and 27 strips in the 4°C normal temperature storage group). The TMP stress-strain curve was obtained through uniaxial tension. According to this curve, the elastic modulus of the low strain zone (EMLS) and the high strain zone (EMHS) were respectively defined. The correlation between the TMP’s diameter and its mechanical properties and the impact of storage temperature on TMP mechanics were analyzed. Four strain energy functions were used to fit the TMP stress-strain curve to obtain the hyperelastic model constitutive parameters. Histological analysis of the axial and transverse microstructure of TMP was performed using Verhoeff-Van Gieson double staining method of Elastic fibers and collagen fibers (EVG) and Masson staining respectively, and the Pseudo Fiber Burden (PFB) was calculated. Analyze the correlation between mechanical properties and PFB. Results: Cryopreservation reduced the elastic modulus in the hyperelastic stage of TMP mechanical properties. EMLS (r=-0.7228, P<0.0001)/EMHS (r=-0.6772, P<0.0001) showed a significantly negative correlation with TMP diameter, while PFB only showed a significantly higher positive correlation with EMHS (r=0.6646, P=0.0057). Conclusion: This study quantitatively characterized the morphological and mechanical features of TMP. The research revealed that different storage temperatures to some extent affected the mechanical properties of TMP. Moreover, there was a significant correlation between the mechanical properties of TMP and TMP diameter. This held potential significance for a deeper understanding of the mechanical aspects of TMP under atrial fibrillation conditions and for constructing atrial fibrillation simulation models of the LAA.
Progress in the Study of Active Ingredients and Pharmacological Actions of Mung Bean
Authors: Jiang Minghui
Published: May 2024

Mung bean contains a variety of active ingredients such as flavonoids, polysaccharides, and polyphenolic compounds. In this article, the differences in active ingredients and their types of mung bean obtained by different extraction methods are reviewed, the pharmacological actions of mung bean such as inhibition of bacterial growth, oxidation resistance, immune regulation, decreasing blood sugar, hypolipidemic effect, and anti-tumor effect and their mechanisms are summarized, and the active ingredients that function in different pharmacological actions are categorized. As mung bean has the efficacy of both medicine and food, this review provides a basis for the subsequent studies and development of mung bean to make it useful in daily consumption and pharmaceutical applications.
Pulmonalvenenisolation: Einfluss des Streustrahlenrasters auf die
Patientendosis
Authors: Hartmann Kerstin , Techt Lisa , Zinkl Tanja
Published: May 2024

Die interventionelle Kardiologie/Rhythmologie gilt als Hochdosisbereich. Daher
sollten laufend Optimierungsmaßnahmen im Strahlenschutz für Patient*innen und
Personal durchgeführt werden. Eine mögliche Patientendosisreduktion ist, den
Streustrahlenraster während der Intervention zu entfernen. In einer
retrospektiven Studie wurde der Einfluss auf die Patientendosis und die
Bildqualität speziell bei einer Pulmonalvenenisolation untersucht.
Soft Skills in der Radiologietechnologie und Umgang mit Patientinnen
am Beispiel der Mammographie
Authors: Hondl-Adametz Michaela
Published: May 2024

Der Anspruch an Radiologietechnologinnen/MTR ist vielfältig. Um als
Radiologietechnologin[1]/MTR Untersuchungen an Patientinnen
qualitativ hochwertig durchzuführen, benötigt es sowohl Fachwissen,
Professionalität und handwerkliches Können als auch einen guten Umgang mit
Patientinnen. Das bedeutet: Die Radiologietechnologinnen/MTR benötigen Hard
Skills und Soft Skills Dieser Artikel gibt einen Überblick über die wesentlichen
Soft Skills unserer Berufsgruppe mit dem Schwerpunkt auf deren Bedeutung
bezüglich Patientinnenkontakt. Zusätzlich wird aufgezeigt wie Soft Skills
ausgebaut und trainiert werden können und damit sowohl die
Patientinnenzufriedenheit erhöht als auch der eigene Arbeitstag optimiert werden
kann.
A Misdiagnosis of MIS-C: Acute Pneumococcal Meningitis Due to
Serotype 19F in A Child with Acute SARS-CoV-2 Infection with a Severe Disease
Course
Authors: Yalcinkaya Rumeysa , Oz Fatma Nur , Sen Zeynep Savas , Kaman Ayse , Ozdem Suna , Cinni Ruveyda Gumuser , Tanir Gonul
Published: May 2024

Introduction

According to the 2020 CDC criteria, multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children
(MIS-C) due to Coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) is diagnosed when all of the
following criteria are met: fever for+≥+24 hours, laboratory evidence of
inflammation, multisystem (+≥+2) organ involvement, evidence of SARS-CoV-2 infection
or exposure, and no alternative plausible diagnoses (CDC, 2020). Alternative
diagnosis need to be excluded before coming upon an MIS-C diagnosis since there are
plenty of infectious diseases that may mimic MIS-C (Dworsky et al., Pediatr Infect
Dis J 2021; 40; e159-e161; Yalçinkaya et al., Pediatr Infect Dis J 2021; 40;
e524-e525; Kaneta et al., Pediatr Infect Dis J 2023; 42; 590–593; Stanzelova et al.,
Pediatr Infect Dis J 2023; 42; e201-e203; Kolsi et al., Arch Pediatr 2023; 30;
521–523). Herein, we present a 6-year-old girl who was preliminarily diagnosed with
MIS-C and received intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) treatment before referral to
our center. She was diagnosed with acute pneumococcal meningitis due to serotype
19 F and ultimately suffered from sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) as a sequela. We
present this case to remind physicians that MIS-C should not be diagnosed unless
other infectious causes are excluded.
Surgical Outcomes of Epidural Hematoma in Trauma Patients with Absent Pupillary Reactions: A National Trauma Data Analysis
Authors: Ahmed Nasim , Kuo Yen-Hong , Shin Seung Hoon
Published: May 2024

Background Absent pupillary reaction occasionally heralds a poor prognosis following severe head injury. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the outcome of all patients who underwent acute evacuation of epidural hematoma (EDH) despite absent bilateral pupillary reaction.

Methods The Trauma Quality Improvement Program (TQIP) database for the calendar years 2017 and 2018 was accessed for the study. Adult patients ≥18 years of age who sustained severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) with the diagnosis of EDH and underwent evacuation of the hematoma were included in the study. The patients' characteristics, injury severity score (ISS), Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score, midline shift, and comorbidities were compared between patients who had absence of both pupillary reaction (ABPR) and those who presented with presence of both pupillary reaction (PBPR). The primary outcome of the study was in-hospital mortality. Propensity score matching analyses were performed for the study.

Results No significant differences were found between the ABPR and PBPR groups regarding the median age (37 years [interquartile range (IQR): 26–53] vs. 40 years [IQR: 28–55]), gender (males; 81.9 vs. 79.5%), median ISS (29 [25.5–34] vs. 27 [25–33]), GCS score (3 [3–4] vs. 3 [3–3], presence of significant midline shift (75.9 vs. 79.5%), and comorbidities. The patients who presented with ABPR had a significantly higher mortality (34.9 vs. 10.8%; p = 0.002). A higher number of patients were discharged to skilled nursing and rehabilitation facilities (16.7 vs. 10.8% and 46.3 vs. 41.9%, respectively; p = 0.045).

Conclusion Approximately 65% of severe TBI patients survived after the evacuation of the EDH despite the absence of pupillary reaction.
Pharmacological Material Basis of Chushi Weiling Decoction and Its Mechanism in Eczema and Herpes Zoster Based on UPLC-Q-TOF-MS, GC-MS, and Network Pharmacology
Authors: Ren Junxuan , Wang Yan , Li Qinlin , Ouyang Danwei
Published: May 2024

Chushi Weiling Decoction (CWD) is a classic prescription in traditional Chinese medicine used to treat dampness-heat skin diseases. However, the material composition of CWD and its therapeutic mechanism remained largely unknown. This study aimed to investigate the pharmacological material basis of CWD and their potential therapeutic effects using ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q-TOF-MS), gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), and network pharmacology. In this work, UPLC-Q-TOF-MS and GC-MS technologies were used to identify the main components of CWD. The UPLC-Q-TOF MS analysis was performed on a Thermo-Accucore aQ C18 (100 mm × 2.1 mm, 2.6 μm; ThermoFisher, United States) with a mobile phase consisting of acetonitrile–0.1% formic acid aqueous solution in MSE mode. The GC-MS analysis was performed on an HP-5MS UI (0.25 mm × 30 m × 0.25 μm; Agilent, United States) of headspace injection. Treatment mechanisms of eczema and herpes zoster were explored using network pharmacology methods and enrichment analysis. Our data showed that there were 194 compounds identified using UPLC-Q-TOF-MS and 92 compounds identified using GC-MS. The mass spectrometric fragmentation rules of terpenoids, flavonoids, phenylpropanoids, phenolic acid esters, and alkaloids in CWD were summarized. Network pharmacology provided targets and pathways, and molecular docking indicated that alisol J 23-acetate, kaempferol, anomalin, and cinnamaldehyde tend to combine with target proteins in a good case at a low level of binding energy. Given the above, this study provides a reference for the material basis of CWD, and suggests that CWD may play a therapeutic role in eczema and herpes zoster by (1) anti-inflammatory, antiviral, mediating immune response; and (2) regulating steroid metabolism.
Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy-Induced Complex Common Bile Duct Injury: Will Rescue ERCP Help?
Authors: Vadgaonkar Amol , Parekh Sanil , Kamat Nagesh , Patil Gaurav , Dalal Ankit , Vora Sehajad , Pendse Swara , Maydeo Amit
Published: May 2024

A 33-year-old woman presented for laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC)-induced accidental transection of the common bile duct at the level of confluence and common hepatic duct cutoff (E5–Bismuth type 5 injury) along with transected indwelling biliary stent hanging in the right posterior duct (RPD). At endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), the distal fragment was removed. The RPD stent was cannulated across and retrieved, followed by three plastic stents in the right and left hepatic duct. Prompt referral of a bile duct injury during LC to a specialized center with timely ERCP saved the day and averted the need for surgical intervention.
Electrosurgery in Gastrointestinal Endoscopy: Bench to Bedside
Authors: Nabi Zaheer , Lopez Priscilla , Reddy D. Nageshwar
Published: May 2024

Electrosurgical generator units (ESUs) are instrumental in modern therapeutic gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy, converting household alternating current into high-frequency current to generate thermal energy within tissues. This review elucidates the essentials of electrosurgery, exploring the thermal effects on tissue, current resistance, voltage, current density, duty cycle, crest factor, and the distinctions between monopolar and bipolar circuitry. The concept of duty cycle, the proportion of time electrical current is delivered, and crest factor, the ratio of peak to root mean square voltage, are essential while comparing differently named modes across various commercially available ESUs. This article discusses the practical applications of electrosurgery in therapeutic GI endoscopy procedures, including endoscopic sphincterotomy, polypectomy, endoscopic mucosal resection, endoscopic submucosal dissection, and peroral endoscopic myotomy. It outlines recommended modes and settings for ESUs across various procedures, emphasizing the balance between cutting and coagulation to achieve optimal outcomes while minimizing adverse effects. The review further addresses special considerations for the use of grounding pads and the management of patients with implanted cardiac devices during electrosurgical procedures. This article concludes with a call for a deeper understanding of electrosurgical principles and their application in GI endoscopy to ensure patient safety and procedural success, backed by references to relevant literature and detailed tables summarizing electrosurgical modes and settings for various therapeutic interventions.
Gene Therapy for Hemophilia B: Achievements, Open Issues, and Perspectives
Authors: Castaman Giancarlo , Miesbach Wolfgang
Published: May 2024

Hemophilia B is the first bleeding disorder for which gene therapy clinical programs began. Presently, adenovirus-associated vectors represent the best means to deliver the transgene, and their administration by intravenous route has been used in recent clinical trials. The natural occurring factor IX (FIX) Padua variant, which allows for a 5- to 8-fold higher activity of FIX, while maintaining a normal protein concentration, was subsequently used to enhance the level of transgene expression. All the recent trials using this variant showed good results, and accumulating data suggest that long-term expression durability could be maintained at a significant hemostatic level. However, the risk of loss of transgene expression associated to immune response with liver enzymes elevation remains a concern, especially as to the efficacy and duration of immunosuppressive treatment. Notwithstanding this limitation, the results of clinical trials suggest that gene therapy in hemophilia B has the potential to provide long-term benefits with sustained factor activity levels predicted to last several years in many patients.
What difference does one course make? Assessing the impact of content-based instruction on students’ sustainability literacy
Authors: Erguvan Inan Deniz
Published: May 2024

Composition studies, with their cross-disciplinary role in students’ academic lives, can be essential in placing sustainability at the center of students’ learning. This research assessed the impact of content-based instruction on students’ sustainability literacy in a first-year composition course through a mixed-method design. In the quantitative part of this case study, 221 students in different classes of a first-year writing course in a higher education institute in Kuwait during the Fall term of 2022 were first given a pretest to determine their sustainability literacy levels. During a 6-week period, 121 students participated in the content-based instruction emphasizing sustainability, while 100 students comprised the control group, receiving curriculum without any emphasis on sustainability. The allocation of students in these two groups was random, determined solely by the classes they were enrolled in at the beginning of the semester. At the end of the semester, both the experimental and control groups were given a posttest to measure the impact of the instruction on their sustainability literacy levels. For the qualitative component, 60 students from the experimental group and 60 students from the control group were tasked with composing an essay identifying Kuwait’s major sustainability challenges and proposing corresponding solutions. The impact of content-based instruction on students’ literacy levels was measured by conducting a qualitative and quantitative content analysis on their writing. The results showed that the experimental group students made statistically significant improvements in their sustainable literacy levels, scored better on the posttest, used more sustainability terms and concepts, and identified more sustainability-related challenges and solutions in their essays.
Putting algorithmic bias on top of the agenda in the discussions on autonomous weapons systems
Authors: Bhila Ishmael
Published: May 2024

Biases in artificial intelligence have been flagged in academic and policy literature for years. Autonomous weapons systems—defined as weapons that use sensors and algorithms to select, track, target, and engage targets without human intervention—have the potential to mirror systems of societal inequality which reproduce algorithmic bias. This article argues that the problem of engrained algorithmic bias poses a greater challenge to autonomous weapons systems developers than most other risks discussed in the Group of Governmental Experts on Lethal Autonomous Weapons Systems (GGE on LAWS), which should be reflected in the outcome documents of these discussions. This is mainly because it takes longer to rectify a discriminatory algorithm than it does to issue an apology for a mistake that occurs occasionally. Highly militarised states have controlled both the discussions and their outcomes, which have focused on issues that are pertinent to them while ignoring what is existential for the rest of the world. Various calls from civil society, researchers, and smaller states for a legally binding instrument to regulate the development and use of autonomous weapons systems have always included the call for recognising algorithmic bias in autonomous weapons, which has not been reflected in discussion outcomes. This paper argues that any ethical framework developed for the regulation of autonomous weapons systems should, in detail, ensure that the development and use of autonomous weapons systems do not prejudice against vulnerable sections of (global) society.
The algorithm for extracting surface defects from ZrO2 ceramic bearing balls using shearlet transform image enhancement
Authors: Liao Dahai , Xia Xin , Liao Xianqi , Zheng Qi , Fang Changfu , Wu Nanxing
Published: May 2024

To solve the problems of noise coverage defect and low contrast between the defect and the background of ZrO2 ceramic bearing balls, a surface defect extraction algorithm based on shearlet transform image enhancement for ZrO2 ceramic bearing balls is proposed. According to the shape characteristics of ceramic bearing balls, the surface defect image acquisition platform is built to collect and analyze surface defect images. Gaussian filtering weakens the scatter-particle noise in the image, and the threshold corrects the coefficient generated by the shearlet transform. After shearlet transform, the relatively low-frequency and high-frequency parts appear. The low-frequency part reflects the edge information of defects, and the high-frequency part reflects the edge and texture information of defects. Thus, the integrity of the defect is ensured, and an enhanced surface defect image is obtained. The gray histogram of the enhanced image is observed. The optimal threshold is selected by the histogram threshold segmentation method, and the process of defects being completely extracted from the background is realized. Experimental results showed that the extraction rates of pits, scratches, and cracks in ZrO2 ceramic bearing balls’ surface images are 95.00%, 92.50%, and 92.50%, respectively.
A scanning probe microscope compatible with quantum sensing at ambient conditions
Authors: Bian Ke , Zheng Wentian , Chen Xiakun , Zhang Shichen , Stöhr Rainer , Denisenko Andrej , Yang Sen , Wrachtrup Jörg , Jiang Ying
Published: May 2024

We designed and built up a new type of ambient scanning probe microscope (SPM), which is fully compatible with state-of-the-art quantum sensing technology based on the nitrogen-vacancy (NV) centers in diamond. We chose a qPlus-type tuning fork (Q up to ∼4400) as the current/force sensor of SPM for its high stiffness and stability under various environments, which yields atomic resolution under scanning tunneling microscopy mode and 1.2-nm resolution under atomic force microscopy mode. The tip of SPM can be used to directly image the topography of nanoscale targets on diamond surfaces for quantum sensing and to manipulate the electrostatic environment of NV centers to enhance their sensitivity up to a single proton spin. In addition, we also demonstrated scanning magnetometry and electrometry with a spatial resolution of ∼20 nm. Our new system not only paves the way for integrating atomic/molecular-scale color-center qubits onto SPM tips to produce quantum tips but also provides the possibility of fabricating color-center qubits with nanoscale or atomic precision.
Development of a high-order solver for large eddy simulation of turbulent heat transfer at supercritical pressure based on Nek5000
Authors: Ren Yangjian , Hu Zhan-Chao
Published: May 2024

Turbulent heat transfer at supercritical pressure is a complex flow phenomenon due to drastic variations in fluid properties near the pseudocritical point. Numerical simulation is an important method to reveal the underlying physics. Currently, low-order numerical methods together with Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes equations are the mainstream in which empirical parameters are required, preventing high-fidelity simulations. Through inventing iterative properties updating and density-weighted explicit filtering, this work develops a high-order spectral element solver based on the open-source code Nek5000. By simulating a classical problem of supercritical CO2 flowing in a heated pipe and comparing it with benchmark data, the capability of the solver in direct numerical simulation is validated. Further results suggest lowering the mesh resolution leads to inaccurate predictions of bulk parameters and turbulent statistics. Therefore, filtering-based large eddy simulation (LES) is explored with different filter weights under a coarse mesh. Results show such a method can significantly improve most of the bulk parameters, including the bulk Nusselt number. The optimal filter weight can be determined from a simple optimization problem minimizing the deviation of overall energy conservation. Being high-order and capable of LES without empirical parameter, the current solver is a powerful tool for high-fidelity simulation of turbulent heat transfer at supercritical pressure.
Analysis of Marshall–Olkin extended Gumbel type-II distribution under progressive type-II censoring with applications
Authors: Ramadan Dina A. , Tashkandy Yusra A. , Bakr M. E. , Balogun Oluwafemi Samson , Hasaballah Mustafa M.
Published: May 2024

In this study, we explore the practical applications of maximum likelihood and Bayesian estimation methods in the context of progressive type-II censoring, focusing specifically on the Marshall–Olkin extended Gumbel type-II distribution. We begin by computing maximum likelihood estimates for the distribution’s parameters and constructing asymptotic confidence intervals. Additionally, we employ the Markov chain Monte Carlo method to establish credible intervals for Bayes estimates, considering both squared error and linear exponential loss functions. To showcase the effectiveness of our approach, we analyze two real datasets and conduct a simulation study to evaluate the performance of our proposed estimators across varying sample sizes. Our findings reveal that the Bayes estimators for the parameters outperform the maximum likelihood estimators.
Quantum computation of stopping power for inertial fusion target design
Authors: Rubin Nicholas C. , Berry Dominic W. , Kononov Alina , Malone Fionn D. , Khattar Tanuj , White Alec , Lee Joonho , Neven Hartmut , Babbush Ryan , Baczewski Andrew D.
Published: May 2024

Stopping power is the rate at which a material absorbs the kinetic energy of a charged particle passing through it—one of many properties needed over a wide range of thermodynamic conditions in modeling inertial fusion implosions. First-principles stopping calculations are classically challenging because they involve the dynamics of large electronic systems far from equilibrium, with accuracies that are particularly difficult to constrain and assess in the warm-dense conditions preceding ignition. Here, we describe a protocol for using a fault-tolerant quantum computer to calculate stopping power from a first-quantized representation of the electrons and projectile. Our approach builds upon the electronic structure block encodings of Su et al. [
PRX Quant.
2
, 040332 (2021)], adapting and optimizing those algorithms to estimate observables of interest from the non-Born–Oppenheimer dynamics of multiple particle species at finite temperature. We also work out the constant factors associated with an implementation of a high-order Trotter approach to simulating a grid representation of these systems. Ultimately, we report logical qubit requirements and leading-order Toffoli costs for computing the stopping power of various projectile/target combinations relevant to interpreting and designing inertial fusion experiments. We estimate that scientifically interesting and classically intractable stopping power calculations can be quantum simulated with roughly the same number of logical qubits and about one hundred times more Toffoli gates than is required for state-of-the-art quantum simulations of industrially relevant molecules such as FeMoco or P450.
Th17-to-Tfh plasticity during periodontitis limits disease pathology
Authors: McClure Flora A. , Wemyss Kelly , Cox Joshua R. , Bridgeman Hayley M. , Prise Ian E. , King James I. , Jaigirdar Shafqat , Whelan Annie , Jones Gareth W. , Grainger John R. , Hepworth Matthew R. , Konkel Joanne E.
Published: May 2024

Th17 cell plasticity is crucial for development of autoinflammatory disease pathology. Periodontitis is a prevalent inflammatory disease where Th17 cells mediate key pathological roles, yet whether they exhibit any functional plasticity remains unexplored. We found that during periodontitis, gingival IL-17 fate-mapped T cells still predominantly produce IL-17A, with little diversification of cytokine production. However, plasticity of IL-17 fate-mapped cells did occur during periodontitis, but in the gingiva draining lymph node. Here, some Th17 cells acquired features of Tfh cells, a functional plasticity that was dependent on IL-6. Notably, Th17-to-Tfh diversification was important to limit periodontitis pathology. Preventing Th17-to-Tfh plasticity resulted in elevated periodontal bone loss that was not simply due to increased proportions of conventional Th17 cells. Instead, loss of Th17-to-Tfh cells resulted in reduced IgG levels within the oral cavity and a failure to restrict the biomass of the oral commensal community. Thus, our data identify a novel protective function for a subset of otherwise pathogenic Th17 cells during periodontitis.
Precise landmark-map for bundle adjustment LiDAR odometry
Authors: Tan Xiaojun , Qin Xiangyi , Chen Nanjie , Zhang Letian , Jie Lu , Shen Ying , Wu Jiezhang , You Linlin
Published: May 2024

LiDAR odometry is a critical part of LiDAR simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM). However, existing methods often suffer from the gradual accumulation of errors. Furthermore, the intensive computational requirements of processing large-scale global landmarks make it impractical to directly introduce bundle adjustment(BA) into real-time odometry. To overcome these challenges, this article presents a new strategy named precise landmark-map for BA odometry. First, BA odometry is optimized by a new active landmark maintenance strategy, aiming to improve local registration accuracy and mitigate error accumulation. Specifically, in contrast to conventional methods that only retain feature points within the sliding window, this paper retains all stable landmarks on the map and removes landmarks based on their level of activity. Moreover, computational efficiency is improved by minimizing the sliding window size and implementing marginalization to maintain scans that are outside the window but associated with active landmarks on the map. In addition, experiments on three challenging datasets validate the real-time performance of our algorithm in outdoor driving scenarios, outperforming state-of-the-art LiDAR SLAM algorithms like Lego-LOAM and VLOM.
Demonstration of a superconducting train with LEGO® Mindstorms
Authors: Nishiwaki Yoichi , Takashige Masaaki
Published: May 2024

We have constructed a magnetic rail system that allows a superconductor to travel in a loop for a long time, similar to a maglev train. The system incorporates a Lego Mindstorms-controlled escalator that automatically cools the superconducting train with liquid nitrogen after each lap. As a result, the superconducting train is able to run continuously for over an hour. This demonstration will motivate students to learn physics and materials science.
Analysis of hyperbolic magneto-hydrodynamic [HMHD] wave propagation through neutrino-coupled plasma
Authors: Dashora R , Pensia R K , Dashora H , Mansuri S
Published: May 2024

By using the Hyperbolic Magneto Hydrodynamic model, we investigated the propagation dynamics of a neutrino-coupled plasma system, with the influence of Hall current, rotation, viscosity and finite electrical resistivity. The general dispersion relation is obtained from the perturbed equations for both the Jean’s and neutrino beam instability. The effect of different parameters has been discussed in both parallel and perpendicular modes of wave propagation. The Jean’s instability condition is modified due to the presence of Hall current, Magnetic field and neutrino in both modes of propagation. The growth rate of the neutrino beam is affected by Hall current, viscosity magnetic field and rotation in both propagating modes. We also show the effect of different parameters on the growth rate of a neutrino-coupled plasma system through a graphical presentation.