bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Past Trends and Future Directions of Cardiac Regenerative Medicine – A Systematic Analysis of Clinical Trial Registries
Authors: Wulfse Maaike , Vervoorn Mats T. , Amelink Jantijn J. G. J. , Ballan Elisa M. , de Jager Saskia C. A. , Sluijter Joost P. G. , Doevendans Pieter A. , Zwetsloot Peter-Paul M. , Van der Kaaij Niels P.
Published: October 2024

Cell therapy, gene therapy, and tissue engineering have been explored as potential strategies to repair or regenerate damaged cardiac tissue. Despite the presence of encouraging preclinical data, clinical trials of regenerative cardiac therapies have yielded mixed results. Our study aimed to investigate the fate of all registered clinical trials within regenerative cardiac medicine, with the purpose of exploring the potential role of publication bias (or trial-completion bias), how published and unpublished research affects the field, and to draw lessons and recommendations for future clinical trials. In this analysis, we show that only a third of all registered trials has yielded results and that a significant number of trials are not completed. Furthermore, we identified significant heterogeneity in study design, study phase, funding, specific therapies used, primary outcome measures and methods of outcome assessment. These observations might hinder the successful translation of cardiac regenerative therapies into clinical practice.

Graphical Abstract

Our study concludes that there is substantial underreporting of results from clinical trials within regenerative cardiac therapy. Coupled with significant heterogeneity in study design, this hinders progression of the field.
Lung ultrasound in PEEP optimization for ARDS: a randomized controlled study
Authors: Ibrahim Mohamed Abdullatif , Taema Khaled , Nassar Yasser , Elsherif Ahmed , Belal Soliman
Published: October 2024

Background

PEEP optimization in acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a controversial issue. Lung ultrasound (LUS) is a potential useful tool in PEEP optimization.

Aim

This study was intended to investigate the usefulness of LUS as a tool for PEEP optimization in ARDS patients.

Methods

Prospective randomized controlled trial conducted on ARDS patients that included 60 patients randomized in a 1:1 ratio to either PEEP/FiO2 table (group I) or lung ultrasound (group II).

Results

The baseline findings showed more severe ARDS in group I patients with significantly lower P/F ratio (P = 0.008) and static compliance (P = 0.02). The use of LUS for PEEP optimization did not result in better improvement in P/F ratio (P = 0.4), PaCO2 (P = 0.2), or static compliance (P = 0.8). The use of LUS was associated with a favorable effect on hemodynamics with significantly less decrease in CO (P < 0.001), decreased TAPSE (P < 0.001), and less increase in right ventricular systolic pressure (P < 0.001). Despite that the inhospital mortality was significantly lower in group I, this result should be interpreted cautiously because the more severe the ARDS in group I.

Conclusion

Optimizing PEEP by lung ultrasound in mechanically ventilated ARDS patients might cause better outcomes in terms of oxygenation and hemodynamics indices despite the lack of effect on respiratory system mechanics. The use of LUS in PEEP optimization for ARDS patients needs to be more evaluated.
Risk Propensity and Acceptance of Gene-edited and Genetically Modified Food among US Consumers: A Comparison between Plants and Animal Products
Authors: Meerza Syed Imran Ali , Dsouza Alwin , Ahamed Afsana , Mottaleb Khondoker
Published: October 2024

Utilizing online survey data of US consumers, this study examines the extent to which consumers' acceptance of genetically modified (GM) and gene-edited (GE) food is driven by their risk attitudes. Our results indicate that individuals with high-risk propensity are more likely to accept both GM and GE food than individuals with low- and medium-risk propensity. Our results also find differences in consumers' attitudes toward plants and animal products in the context of both GM and GE. Intriguingly, these attitudinal differences can be explained by consumers' risk propensities. Specifically, both low- and medium-risk propensity consumers differentiate between plants and animal products; the latter is less acceptable than the former, indicating a tendency to have more concerns about the application of biotechnology to animals than plants. However, individuals with high-risk propensity do not differentiate between GM and GE plants and animal products. Our results suggest that policymakers, the food industry, and researchers need to consider these attitudinal differences while studying consumer attitudes toward GM and GE food. Failing to capture these attitudinal differences in studies focusing on consumer behavior toward GM and GE food may result in either overestimating or underestimating consumer response.
Task-State Functional MRI of Brain Regions with Reduced Activation in Aphasia Patients: A Meta-analysis
Authors: Yu Xin-ming , Lv Wen-ming , Yu Qiao-wen , Kang Xi-zhi , Liu Xiao-liang , Zhang Liang-wen
Published: October 2024

Objective:

Language is one of the most celebrated hallmarks of human cognition. With the continuous improvement of medical technology, functional MRI (fMRI) has been used in aphasia. Although many related studies have been carried out, most studies have not extensively focused on brain regions with reduced activation in aphasic patients. The aim of this study was to identify brain regions normally activated in healthy controls but with reduced activation in aphasic patients during fMRI language tasks.

Methods:

We collected all previous task-state fMRI studies of secondary aphasia. The brain regions showed normal activation in healthy controls and reduced activation in aphasic patients were conducted activation likelihood estimation (ALE) meta-analysis to obtain the brain regions with consistently reduced activation in aphasic patients.

Results:

The ALE meta-analysis revealed that the left inferior frontal gyrus, left middle temporal gyrus, left superior temporal gyrus, left fusiform gyrus, left lentiform nucleus and the culmen of the cerebellum were the brain regions with reduced activation in aphasic patients.

Discussion:

These findings from the ALE meta-analysis have significant implications for understanding the language network and the potential for recovery of language functions in individuals with aphasia.
Elasto-inertial rectification of oscillatory flow in an elastic tube
Authors: Zhang Xirui , Rallabandi Bhargav
Published: October 2024

The interaction between deformable surfaces and oscillatory driving is known to produce complex secondary time-averaged flows due to inertial and elastic nonlinearities. Here, we revisit the problem of oscillatory flow in a cylindrical tube with a deformable wall, and analyse it under a long-wave theory for small deformations, but for arbitrary Womersley numbers. We find that the oscillatory pressure does not vary linearly along the length of a deformable channel, but instead decays exponentially with spatial oscillations. We show that this decay occurs over an elasto-visco-inertial length scale that depends on the material properties of the fluid and the elastic walls, the geometry of the system, and the frequency of the oscillatory flow, but is independent of the amplitude of deformation. Inertial and geometric nonlinearities associated with the elastic deformation of the channel drive a time-averaged secondary flow. We quantify the flow using numerical solutions of the perturbation theory, and gain insight by developing analytic approximations. The theory identifies a complex non-monotonic dependence of the time-averaged flux on the elastic compliance and inertia, including a reversal of the flow. Finally, we show that our analytic theory is in excellent quantitative agreement with the three-dimensional direct numerical simulations of Pande et al. (Phys. Rev. Fluids, vol. 8, no. 12, 2023, 124102).
Attenuation of long waves through regions of irregular floating ice and bathymetry
Authors: Dafydd Lloyd , Porter Richard
Published: October 2024

Existing theoretical results for attenuation of surface waves propagating on water of random fluctuating depth are shown to over-predict the rate of decay due to the way in which ensemble averaging is performed. A revised approach is presented which corrects this and is shown to conserve energy. New theoretical predictions are supported by numerical results which use averaging of simulations of wave scattering over finite sections of random bathymetry for which transfer matrix eigenvalues are used to accurately measure decay. The model of wave propagation used in this paper is derived from a linearised long-wavelength assumption whereby depth averaging leads to time harmonic waves being represented as solutions to a simple ordinary differential equation. In this paper it is shown how this can be adapted to incorporate a model of a continuous covering of the surface by fragmented floating ice. Attenuation of waves through broken ice of random thickness is then analysed in a similar manner as bed variations have been previously. General features of the predicted attenuation are discussed in relation to existing theoretical models for attenuation due to multiple scattering through random ice environments and to field data, particularly in the model's ability to capture a ‘rollover effect’ at higher frequencies.
Prediction of energy harvesting efficiency through a wake–foil interaction model for oscillating foil arrays
Authors: Ribeiro Bernardo Luiz R. , Franck Jennifer A.
Published: October 2024

This research investigates the wake–foil interactions between two oscillating foils in a tandem configuration undergoing energy harvesting kinematics. Oscillating foils have been shown to extract hydrokinetic energy from free-stream flows through a combination of periodic heave and pitch motions, at relatively higher amplitudes and lower reduced frequency than thrust generating foils. When placed in tandem, the wake–foil interactions can govern the energy harvesting efficiency of the system due to a reduced relative flow velocity in combination with a structured and coherent wake of vortices shed from the high amplitude flapping of upstream foils. This work utilizes simulations of two tandem foils to parameterize and model the energy harvesting performance as a function of array configuration and foil kinematics. Once the wake of the leading foil has been fully parameterized, the placement, phase angle and kinematic stroke of the second foil is utilized to estimate the time-dependent power curve. The algorithm predicts the power of the second foil through the mean and unsteady wake characteristics, including the direct impingement of a vortex with the trailing foil.
Role of melting and solidification in the spreading of an impacting water drop
Authors: Sarlin Wladimir , Grivet Rodolphe , Xu Julien , Huerre Axel , Séon Thomas , Josserand Christophe
Published: October 2024

The present study reports experiments of water droplets impacting on ice or on a cold metal substrate, with the aim of understanding the effects of liquid solidification or substrate melting on the impingement process. Both liquid and substrate temperatures are varied, as well as the height of fall of the droplet. The dimensionless maximum spreading diameter,

$\beta _m$

, is found to increase with both temperatures as well as with the impact velocity. Here

$\beta _m$

is reduced when liquid solidification, which enhances dissipation, is present, whereas fusion, i.e. substrate melting, favours the spreading of the impacting droplet. These observations are rationalized by extending an existing model of effective viscosity, in which phase change alters the size and shape of the developing viscous boundary layer, thereby modifying the value of

$\beta _m$

. The use of this correction allows us to adapt a scaling recently developed in the context of isothermal drop impacts to propose a law giving the maximum diameter of an impacting water droplet in the presence of melting or solidification. Finally, additional experiments of dimethyl sulfoxide drop impacts onto a cold brass substrate have been performed and are also captured by the proposed modelling, generalizing our results to other fluids.
Reduced basal motion responsible for 50 years of declining ice velocities on Athabasca Glacier
Authors: Polashenski David , Truffer Martin , Armstrong William Henry
Published: October 2024

The time-evolution of glacier basal motion remains poorly constrained, despite its importance in understanding the response of glaciers to climate warming. Athabasca Glacier provides an ideal site for observing changes in basal motion over long timescales. Studies from the 1960s provide an in situ baseline dataset constraining ice deformation and basal motion. We use two complementary numerical flow models to investigate changes along a well-studied transverse profile and throughout a larger study area. A cross-sectional flow model allows us to calculate transverse englacial velocity fields to simulate modern and historical conditions. We subsequently use a 3-D numerical ice flow model, Icepack, to estimate changes in basal friction by inverting known surface velocities. Our results reproduce observed velocities well using standard values for flow parameters. They show that basal motion declined significantly (30–40%) and this constitutes the majority (50–80%) of the observed decrease in surface velocities. At the same time, basal resistive stress has remained nearly constant and now balances a much larger fraction of the driving stress. The decline in basal motion over multiple decades of climate warming could serve as a stabilizing feedback mechanism, slowing ice transport to lower elevations, and therefore moderating future mass loss rates.
A limited case for the closed material procedure: natural justice, open justice and the clear advantage variation
Authors: Lui Edward
Published: October 2024

The closed material procedure (CMP) – ever since its introduction to English law – has been subjected to a very significant amount of academic criticism. But over time, the CMP has become increasingly settled as a fixture in English law. Whilst the existence of the CMP per se in English law seems settled, the extent of its deployment is not. Given this development, it seems important and constructive to examine whether – and the conditions under which – a CMP can ever be normatively justified, all things considered. Two propositions will be made. First, a common argument for the CMP – the maximising argument – does not demonstrate that the CMP is normatively justified, all things considered, for it does not sufficiently mitigate the two main objections to the CMP, based respectively on the principles of natural justice and open justice. Secondly, where the clear advantage variation is deployed – ie when a CMP allows the excluded party to make use of material that: (a) clearly advantages him; and (b) would otherwise be unavailable for the court's consideration – both objections are sufficiently mitigated. In such a case, the CMP is normatively justified, all things considered. This constitutes a limited normative case for the CMP.
Frailty, Body Composition, and Glycemic Control in Older Adults with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Madden Kenneth M. , Feldman Boris , Sy Sarah , Meneilly Graydon S.
Published: October 2024

The relationship between frailty and glycemic control in older adults with diabetes remains uncertain, mainly due to the fact that previous studies have not accounted for measures of body composition. In older adults with diabetes, we examined the association between three types of frailty measures and glycemic control, while accounting for fat-free mass (FFM) and waist circumference (WC). Eighty older adults (age ≥65, 27 women and 53 men, mean age 80.5 ± 0.6 years) had gait speed, Cardiovascular Health Study Index (CHSI), Rockwood Clinical Frailty Scale (RCFS), and glycosylated hemoglobin (HgA1C) measured. HgA1C showed a negative association only with CHSI (standardized β = −0.255 ± 0.120, p = 0.038), but no association with gait speed or the RCFS. Even after accounting for FFM and WC, we demonstrated a negative association between glycated hemoglobin and increasing frailty in older adults with diabetes.
What does it take for healthy food retail programmes to be successful? Lessons learned in New York City
Authors: Setiono Felicia J , Heller Samantha P , Leak Tashara M
Published: October 2024

Objective:

Healthy food retail programmes (HFRP) in the USA generally aim to increase healthy foods access to improve diet quality and health, yet the impact is mixed. These programmes primarily target adults, even though adolescents frequently and independently visit stores to purchase snacks. This study’s aims are to explore successes and challenges of implementing HFRP (Aim 1) and examine how HFRP can be tailored to adolescents (Aim 2).

Design:

One-time, virtual, semi-structured interviews with individuals who were involved in a HFRP, followed by a socio-demographic characteristics survey. Interviews were designed based on the RE-AIM framework and the Hexagon Tool and analysed using Braun and Clark’s (2006) thematic analysis approach. Descriptive statistics were used to summarise participants’ socio-demographic characteristics.

Setting:

New York City (NYC).

Participants:

Adults (18 years or older) who have designed, implemented and/or evaluated an HFRP in NYC and speak/understand English (n 21).

Results:

Aim 1: For successes, strategies to build relationships with the community were most discussed. Regarding challenges, securing reliable funding was the hardest to overcome. Suggested solutions included designing profitable HFRP, targeting shortcomings in food distribution systems and increasing consumer demand. Aim 2: Most participants had not considered adolescents in previous HFRP but suggested involving youth in developing HFRP to encourage youth-driven solutions and promote youth advocacy.

Conclusions:

Future HFRP should focus on activities that help store owners purchase affordable healthy foods from distributors, which translates to affordability for customers. Federal and local policies can assist by funding complementary programmes. Additionally, adolescents should be considered in these efforts.
Differences in service utilization between pediatric and adult palliative care services in a single center
Authors: Fried Iris , Shaulov Adir , Revel-Vilk Shoshana , Siedner-Weintraub Yael
Published: October 2024

Objectives

Current recommendations do not separate adult and pediatric palliative care (PC) in terms of the personnel needed, or the distribution of care between community and hospital-based services. We evaluated the differences in the utilization of pediatric and adult hospital PC services for non-oncological patients.

Methods

Retrospective study. Parameters included demographics, underlying diagnoses, number of consultations per patient, duration of PC involvement, and follow-up. All non-oncology patients seen by the adult or pediatric PC teams between June 2021 and July 2023 at a single tertiary hospital.

Results

A total of 445 adults and 48 children were seen by the adult and pediatric palliative teams, respectively. Adults were primarily seen in the terminal stages of common chronic diseases, with a high mortality rate. Children were mainly seen at a very young age with rare and complicated diseases. Children needed longer duration of follow-up (114 vs. 5 days, p < 0.001), more consultations (8.5 vs. 4, p < 0.001), and died less while hospitalized (25% of patients vs. 61.6%, p < 0.001).

Significance of results

Adult patients had relatively common diseases, seen and treated often by primary care practitioners, whereas children had rare life-limiting diseases, which primary care pediatricians may have limited experience with, and which require involvement of multiple specialized hospital-based services. Future healthcare PC planning should consider these factors in planning the primary setting for PC teams, specifically more training of adult general practitioners in PC skills, and earlier referral of pediatric patients to hospital-based PC.
Division on the Christian right: Republican pastors and the use of force
Authors: Shady Stephanie N. , Hooghe Liesbet , Marks Gary
Published: October 2024

Polarization in American politics has not produced unity among conservative Christians. Drawing from original survey and interview data on Republican pastors in North Carolina, this paper seeks to understand why these pastors are divided on the legitimacy of force defending the “traditional American way of life.” We find (1) that theological fundamentalism has a positive, though weak, influence; (2) Christian nationalism and White grievance are powerful in increasing support for the use of force; and (3) distrust of elections intensifies the effect of these attitudes.
Bibliometric analysis of the inflammation expression after spinal cord injury: current research status and emerging frontiers
Authors: Li Xiaoyu , Jiao Kun , Liu Chen , Li Xiongfei , Wang Shanhe , Tao Ye , Cheng Yajun , Zhou Xiaoyi , Wei Xianzhao , Li Ming
Published: October 2024

Study design

Bibliometric analysis.

Objective

To analyze literature on inflammatory expression following spinal cord injury, highlighting development trends, current research status, and potential emerging frontiers.

Setting

Not applicable.

Methods

Articles were retrieved using terms related to spinal cord injury and inflammatory responses from the Web of Science Core Collection, covering January 1, 1980, to May 23, 2024. Tools like CiteSpace and VOSviewer assessed the research landscape, evaluating core authors, journals, and contributing countries. Keyword co-occurrence analyses identified research trends.

Results

A total of 2504 articles were retrieved, showing a consistent increase in publications. The Journal of Neurotrauma had the highest publication volume and influence. The most prolific author was Cuzzocrea S, with Popovich PG having the highest H-index. China led in the number of publications, followed closely by the United States, which had the highest impact and extensive international collaboration. Research mainly focused on nerve function recovery, glial scar formation, and oxidative stress. Future research is expected to investigate cellular autophagy, vesicular transport, and related signaling pathways.

Conclusion

The growing interest in inflammation caused by spinal cord injury is evident, with current research focusing on oxidative stress, glial scar, and neurological recovery. Future directions include exploring autophagy and extracellular vesicles for new therapies. Interdisciplinary research and extensive clinical trials are essential for validating new treatments. Biomarker discovery is crucial for diagnosis and monitoring, while understanding autophagy and signaling pathways is vital for drug development. Global cooperation is needed to accelerate the application of scientific findings, improving spinal cord injury treatment.
Equity and timeliness as factors in the effectiveness of an ethical prenatal sequencing service: reflections from parents and professionals
Authors: Peter Michelle , Hill Melissa , Fisher Jane , Daniel Morgan , McInnes-Dean Hannah , Mellis Rhiannon , Walton Holly , Lafarge Caroline , Leeson-Beevers Kerry , Peet Sophie , Tapon Dagmar , Wynn Sarah L. , Chitty Lyn S. , Parker Michael
Published: October 2024

Prenatal sequencing tests are being introduced into clinical practice in many developed countries. In part due to its greater ability to detect genetic variation, offering prenatal sequencing can present ethical challenges. Here we review ethical issues arising following the implementation of prenatal sequencing in the English National Health Service (NHS). We analysed semi structured interviews conducted with 48 parents offered prenatal sequencing and 63 health professionals involved in delivering the service to identify the ethical issues raised. Two main themes were identified: (1) Equity of access (including issues around eligibility criteria, laboratory analytical processes, awareness and education of clinicians, fear of litigation, geography, parental travel costs, and access to private healthcare), and (2) Timeliness and its impact on parental decision-making in pregnancy (in the context of the law around termination of pregnancy, decision-making in the absence of prenatal sequencing results, and the “importance” of prenatal sequencing results). Recognising both the practical and systemic ethical issues that arise out of delivering a national prenatal sequencing service is crucial. Although specific to the English context, many of the issues we identified are applicable to prenatal sequencing services more broadly. Education of health professionals and parents will help to mitigate some of these ethical issues.
Maintaining and updating accurate internal representations of continuous variables with a handful of neurons
Authors: Noorman Marcella , Hulse Brad K. , Jayaraman Vivek , Romani Sandro , Hermundstad Ann M.
Published: October 2024

Many animals rely on persistent internal representations of continuous variables for working memory, navigation, and motor control. Existing theories typically assume that large networks of neurons are required to maintain such representations accurately; networks with few neurons are thought to generate discrete representations. However, analysis of two-photon calcium imaging data from tethered flies walking in darkness suggests that their small head-direction system can maintain a surprisingly continuous and accurate representation. We thus ask whether it is possible for a small network to generate a continuous, rather than discrete, representation of such a variable. We show analytically that even very small networks can be tuned to maintain continuous internal representations, but this comes at the cost of sensitivity to noise and variations in tuning. This work expands the computational repertoire of small networks, and raises the possibility that larger networks could represent more and higher-dimensional variables than previously thought.
Experimental investigation of a nano coating efficiency for dust mitigation on photovoltaic panels in harsh climatic conditions
Authors: Ahmed Asmaa , Elsakka Mohamed , Elhenawy Yasser , Amer Ahmed , Mansi Amr , Bassyouni Mohamed , Gadalla Mamdouh , Refaat Ahmed
Published: October 2024

Dust accumulation on photovoltaic (PV) panels in arid regions diminishes solar energy absorption and panel efficiency. In this study, the effectiveness of a self-cleaning nano-coating thin film is evaluated in reducing dust accumulation and improving PV Panel efficiency. Surface morphology and elemental analysis of the nano-coating and dust are conducted. Continuous measurements of solar irradiances and ambient temperature have been recorded. SEM analysis of dust revealed irregularly shaped micron-sized particles with potential adhesive properties, causing shading effects on the PV panel surface. Conversely, the coating particles exhibited a uniform, spherical shape, suggesting effective prevention of dust adhesion. Solar irradiance ranged from 120 W/m² to a peak of 720 W/m² at noon. Application of the self-cleaning nano-coating thin film consistently increased short circuit current (Isc), with the coated panel averaging 2.8 A, which is 64.7% higher than the uncoated panel’s 1.7 A. The power output of the coated panel ranged from 7 W to 38 W, with an average of approximately 24.75 W, whereas the uncoated panel exhibited a power output between 3 W and 23 W, averaging around 14 W. These findings highlight the substantial potential of nano-coating for effective dust mitigation, particularly in dusty environments, thus enhancing PV system reliability.
Improved yolov5 algorithm combined with depth camera and embedded system for blind indoor visual assistance
Authors: Zhang Kaikai , Wang Yanyan , Shi Shengzhe , Wang Qingqing , Wang Chun , Liu Sheng
Published: October 2024

To assist the visually impaired in their daily lives and solve the problems associated with poor portability, high hardware costs, and environmental susceptibility of indoor object-finding aids for the visually impaired, an improved YOLOv5 algorithm was proposed. It was combined with a RealSense D435i depth camera and a voice system to realise an indoor object-finding device for the visually impaired using a Raspberry Pi 4 B device as its core. The algorithm uses GhostNet instead of the YOLOv5s backbone network to reduce the number of parameters and computation of the model, incorporates an attention mechanism (coordinate attention), and replaces the YOLOv5 neck network with a bidirectional feature pyramid network to enhance feature extraction. Compared to the YOLOv5 model, the model size was reduced by 42.4%, number of parameters was reduced by 47.9%, and recall rate increased by 1.2% with the same precision. This study applied the improved YOLOv5 algorithm to an indoor object-finding device for the visually impaired, where the searched object was input by voice, and the RealSense D435i was used to acquire RGB and depth images to realize the detection and ranging of the object, broadcast the specific distance of the target object by voice, and assist the visually impaired in finding the object.
Estrogen-stimulated uropathogenic E. coli mediate enhanced neutrophil responses
Authors: Pettersson Carolina , Wu Rongrong , Demirel Isak
Published: October 2024

Urinary tract infection (UTI) is one of the most common bacterial infections worldwide and the most common cause is uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC). Current research is mostly focused on how UPEC affects host factors, whereas the effect of host factors on UPEC is less studied. Our previous studies have shown that estrogen alters UPEC virulence. However, the effect of this altered UPEC virulence on neutrophils is unknown. The aim of the present study was to investigate how the altered UPEC virulence mediated by estrogen modulates neutrophil responses. We found that estradiol-stimulated CFT073 increased neutrophil phagocytosis, NETs formation and intracellular ROS production. We observed that the total ROS production from neutrophils was reduced by estradiol-stimulated CFT073. We also found that estradiol-stimulated CFT073 induced less cytotoxicity in neutrophils. Additionally, we found that several cytokines and chemokines like IL-8, IL-1β, CXCL6, MCP-1 and MCP-4 were increased upon estradiol-stimulated CFT073 infection. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that the estrogen-mediated alterations to UPEC virulence modulates neutrophil responses, most likely in a host-beneficial manner.
Hydroxylation boosted low-overpotential CO2 reduction to ethylene for a Cu/PTFE electrode
Authors: Wang Yifeng , Huang Haoliang , Zhang Shengjie , Zhang Hao , Jing Chao , Wang Jian-Qiang , Zhang Linjuan
Published: October 2024

A Cu/PTFE electrode prepared by ion-sputtering in a moist Ar atmosphere with abundant surface *OH achieves ultra-low-overpotential CO2 reduction to ethylene.
Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy: from breakthroughs to functional utility in supercapacitors and batteries – a comprehensive assessment
Authors: Santa-Cruz Larissa A. , Tavares Fabiele C. , Loguercio Lara F. , dos Santos Calink I. L. , Galvão Rhauane A. , Alves Otávio A. L. , Oliveira Maria Z. , Torresi Roberto M. , Machado Giovanna
Published: October 2024

This study presents a comprehensive assessment of electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) applied to supercapacitors and batteries, highlighting theoretical and practical advancements to enhance device performance.
On the prospects of high-entropy organic A-site halide perovskites
Authors: Minussi F. B. , Araújo E. B.
Published: October 2024

Maximizing entropy in halide perovskites may be possible through A-site substitution with multiple organic cations.
A synergetic effect of light and anion: near-infrared colorimetric monitoring of nitric oxide (NO) release from fluoride/cyanide anions and a water responsive ruthenium nitrosyl complex
Authors: Sharma Nancy , Nitin  , Gadiyaram Srushti , Ghosh Amrita , Jose D. Amilan
Published: October 2024

An anion responsive ruthenium nitrosyl complex is reported. The combined effect of light and anion is used for the colorimetric monitoring of nitric oxide (NO) release.
Catalytic synthesis of renewable lubricant base oils with methyl oleate and aromatics
Authors: Zhou Binbin , Wang Nan , Liu Sibao , Liu Guozhu
Published: October 2024

Aromatic-ester and cyclo-branched alkane renewable lubricant base oils were produced from methyl oleate and biomass-derived aromatics by alkylation and alkylation followed by hydrodeoxygenation (HDO).
Preparation of waste-incorporated bio-smart shape-stable phase change material (FSSPCM) with responsive fluorescent properties
Authors: K. K. Shilpa , Padmanaban Ramya , M. Sathishkumar , Sarkar Jit
Published: October 2024

PEG- and leather waste-incorporated SSPCMs demonstrated notable shape memory properties in both air and water. Fluorescent dyes were embedded into the SSPCMs to create a thermo-responsive and metal-ion-responsive fluorescent switch.
Wind Tunnel Test on an Airplane Model with Cylindrical VGs attached on the Wing’s Upper Surface
Authors: Wijiatmoko Gunawan , Yohana Eflita , Tauviqirrahman Mohammad , Pane Ivransa Zuhdi
Published: October 2024

In aerodynamics, there is a lot of research regarding the implementation of vortex generators (VGs) which are placed in certain parts of aircraft to improve aerodynamic performance. Most of the previous study was carried out computationally using CFD software, while the VGs placement part was an airfoil shape only. This research aims to determine the effect of placing cylindrical VGs on the upper surface of the right and left wings of an airplane aerodynamic model, referring to the chord percentage from the leading edge. Apart from that, the effect of placing VGs along 1/3 of the wing length at the base, middle, or tip of the wing of an airplane model was also studied. This experimental approach uses a subsonic wind tunnel and an external balance system to measure aerodynamic force/moment components occurring at various angles of attack. As a result, the installation of VGs does not have a good effect on the lift and drag coefficients. The best maximum lift drag coefficient ratio (CL/CD) is 11.338 which occurs at an angle of attack of 7° with VGs placement at 17% chord. For VGs placement towards the lateral wing, the best maximum CL/CD is 11.481 which occurs as VGs attached at the wing tip and the angle of attack is 7°.
Application of Lean Manufacturing in the Shoe Industry During the VUCA Era using VUCALEAN
Authors: Laksanawati Ellysa Kusuma , Nindhia Tjokorda Gde Tirta , Susihono Wahyu
Published: October 2024

VUCA time in shoe manufacturing industry occurred when the Covid-19 pandemic hit the world. Shoe production in Indonesia has decreased and only produce that have been received before pandemic were carried out. Meanwhile, there are absolutely no new orders. The condition of shoe manufacturing experiences problems in term of orders, raw materials, production processes and transportation. In order for the shoe industry to continue operating, shoe manufacturing companies and the Indonesian government have issued several policies regarding the process. Lean Manufacturing is the right approach, which can be applied to face the conditions of the covid-19 pandemic. By mapping 8 wastes in the shoe manufacturing industry, then using tools such as Just-In-Time(JIT), Seiri, Seiton, Seiso, Seiketsu, Shitsuke (5S), and Value Steam Mapping (VSM), it is hoped that there will be increased efficiency, production flexibility, increased marketing time and employee and customer involvement. From VUCA conditions and the implementation of Lean Manufacturing, in the shoe industry, a new philosophy called VUCALEAN has emerged. Meanwhile the company’s approach to customers, in the VUCA era, can be done by building a digitalization system in the industry as well as marketing and sales with Electronic Commerce. Increase of 140 thousand tons of shoes.
Experimental Study of Wave Run-Up for Porous Concrete on Seawall Structures
Authors: Sujantoko Sujantoko , Fuad Hafiz F. H. , Azzarine Safa , Raehana Dhiya R.
Published: October 2024

A seawall is a coastal barrier that prevents waves from reaching the shore. The approach of waves increases the height of coastal structures. Coastal protection structures must manage wave run-up to prevent erosion and abrasion adequately. Experiments were conducted to measure wave runup by adjusting the angle of the Seawall and implementing porous concrete armour units. The wave run-up is directly proportional to the slope angle of the structure. The most steeply sloped section with a ratio of 1:1 (0.150 m) produced the highest run-up, followed by a slope ratio of 1:1.5 (0.132 m) and the least steep slope ratio of 1:2 (0.128 m).
The Lumbar Artery Perforator Free Flap as an Alternative Option for Breast Reconstruction in Low BMI Patients: Analysis of CT Angiography of Donor Sites Across BMI
Authors: Casey Máire-Caitlin , Hurley Anna R. , Chrysopoulo Minas , Khan Aadil Ali , Power Kieran , Nanidis Theodore
Published: October 2024

Background In patients with a low body mass index (BMI), the options for autologous breast reconstruction are limited. With the hypothesis that adipose tissue deposition favors the lumbar region over the abdominal wall, this study sought to investigate the lumbar artery perforator (LAP) flap as an alternative reconstructive option in patients with deficient autologous donor sites consequent to a low BMI.

Methods A retrospective cohort analysis was performed, from a prospectively maintained database, of all consecutive deep inferior epigastric artery perforator flap breast reconstructions performed in our unit. A randomized selection of 100 patients with low BMI < 22, normal BMI 22 to 24, and high BMI > 30 was performed. Patient computerized tomography scans were analyzed to measure abdominal wall and lumbar tissue thickness and to define anatomical landmark relations of the LAP.

Results A statistically significant difference was identified between the ratio of lumbar-to-abdominal wall thickness between BMI groups, highlighting preservation of the lumbar thickness in patients with low BMI. The mean distance at which the fourth lumbar perforator entered the subcutaneous tissues was 7.7 cm lateral to the spinous process (range 6.4–9.5 cm), with no significant difference between BMI groups, highlighting this consistent anatomical position.

Conclusion This study confirms a greater lumbar-to-abdominal wall thickness, therefore volume, in low BMI patients, with consistent lumbar perforator anatomy of 6.4 to 9.5 cm lateral to the spinous process. The LAP flap should therefore be strongly considered for autologous breast reconstruction in this patient cohort.
Discourse-Level Communication Success in Aphasia: Unveiling Its Significance through Observer's Ratings
Authors: Ramage Amy E. , Rowe Abigail L. , Greenslade Kathryn J.
Published: October 2024

Audrey Holland (1982) compared test scores to observers' ratings of conversational communicative success in people with aphasia (PWA). This springboarded a body of evidence employing observers to rate discourse. We review the utility of those ratings for assessing PWA's communication success. A traditional literature review identified 16 articles involving naive or trained raters assessing PWAs' communicative success across discourse genres. Another 10 articles reported ratings over time. Collectively, these studies evaluated 349 PWAs. Four studies utilized observers to rate the success of PWA's conversations. Eight studies that reported observers' ratings on other discourse genres found that multimodal communication and facilitative contexts improved success, and ratings of informativeness and comfort related to objective discourse analysis measures. Nine of 10 studies examining treatment effects found that communicative success ratings captured improvements. Observers' ratings provide social validity by reliably assessing the discourse-level communicative success of PWA. Ratings correlated with standardized diagnostic and objective discourse metrics but provided a window into factors that affect communicative success, including the degree to which communication is interactive, multimodal, and contextual. Integrating observers' ratings of discourse success at pretreatment may help identify supports or barriers to successful communication, facilitate individualization of treatments, and offer social validity of change.
InP-based high-performance extended short wavelength p-B-n infrared photodetector with InGaAs/GaAsSb type-II superlattice absorption layer
Authors: Liang Yan , Zhou Wenguang , Zhang Xiangyu , Chang Faran , Li Nong , Shan Yifan , Zhang Ye , Ye Fan , Li Chuanbo , Su Xiangbin , Yang Chengao , Hao Hongyue , Wang Guowei , Jiang Dongwei , Wu Donghai , Ni Haiqiao , Xu Yingqiang , Niu Zhichuan , Zheng Youdou , Shi Yi
Published: October 2024

High-performance p-B-n infrared photodetectors based on In0.53Ga0.47As/Ga0.51As0.49Sb type-II superlattices with an Al0.85Ga0.15AsSb barrier on an InP substrate have been demonstrated. These photodetectors exhibit 50% and 100% cutoff wavelengths of ∼2.1 μm and ∼2.6 μm, respectively. At a bias voltage of −100 mV bias voltage, the device exhibits a peak responsivity of 0.618 A/W at 2.1 μm, corresponding to a quantum efficiency of 36.5%. The device exhibits a saturated dark current shot noise limited specific detectivity (D*) of 4.12 × 1010 cm·Hz1/2/W (at a peak responsivity of 2.1 μm) under −100 mV applied bias at 300 K.
Tunable luminous color of LEDs achieved through integrating reliable multilevel RRAM
Authors: Qi Meng , Yang Liu , Sun Tao , Xu Runze , Lv Ziyu , Zhou Ye , Han Su-Ting
Published: October 2024

We developed a color-modulated light-emitting device (LED) by the integration of a p-GaN/n-ZnO heterojunction with reliable resistive random access memory (RRAM) and demonstrated a multi-function integrated device with the adjustable electroluminescence (EL) color by modulating the injection current according to the multiple resistance states. As a critical foundation of an integrated device, reliable operation was achieved by introducing an AlOx layer into HfOx RRAM as an adjustment of the resistive switching endurance. Eventually, the EL color of LED was effectively regulated by modulating the compliance current of RRAM. Thanks to the high uniformity, this modulated LED may be a promising candidate for the application of low-cost and high-density LED displays without complicated structures and techniques, and it can provide a feasible approach for the realization of multilevel resistance state feedback from varied EL color in the future.
High conductivity coherently strained quantum well XHEMT heterostructures on AlN substrates with delta doping
Authors: Chen Yu-Hsin , Encomendero Jimy , Savant Chandrashekhar , Protasenko Vladimir , Xing Huili (Grace) , Jena Debdeep
Published: October 2024

Polarization-induced two-dimensional electron gases (2DEGs) in AlN/GaN/AlN quantum well high-electron-mobility transistors on ultrawide bandgap AlN substrates offer a promising route to advance microwave and power electronics with nitride semiconductors. The electron mobility in thin GaN quantum wells embedded in AlN is limited by high internal electric field and the presence of undesired polarization-induced two-dimensional hole gases (2DHGs). To enhance the electron mobility in such heterostructures on AlN, previous efforts have resorted to thick, relaxed GaN channels with dislocations. In this work, we introduce n-type compensation δ-doping in a coherently strained single-crystal (Xtal) AlN/GaN/AlN heterostructure to counter the 2DHG formation at the GaN/AlN interface, and simultaneously lower the internal electric field in the well. This approach yields a δ-doped XHEMT structure with a high 2DEG density of ∼3.2×1013 cm−2 and a room temperature (RT) mobility of ∼855 cm2/Vs, resulting in the lowest RT sheet resistance 226.7 Ω/□ reported to date in coherently strained AlN/GaN/AlN HEMT heterostructures on the AlN platform.
Selective enhancement of deep ultraviolet luminescence in barium fluoride scintillators via photonic crystal structures
Authors: Zhang Fan , Ouyang Xiao , Peng Xue , Yin Zeyu , Guo Yaozhen , Zhang Juannan , Ouyang Xiaoping , Liu Bo
Published: October 2024

Barium fluoride (BaF2) scintillators are known for their various applications in high-energy particle detection due to their ultrafast scintillation component that lies within the deep ultraviolet spectral band. However, their slow scintillation component can cause issues in high-rate applications. The slow component can be suppressed by ion-doping, whereas the fast component should be enhanced to further improve the performance of BaF2 scintillators. Here, we utilize photonic crystal structures to selectively enhance the deep ultraviolet fast component of BaF2 scintillators. The photonic crystal structures, composed of hollow shell arrays, are designed to selectively couple with the fast component via surface lattice resonances. An enhancement with a ratio of 1.69 in the light output of the fast component is achieved without affecting the slow component. In addition to the applications on BaF2 scintillators, we anticipate that this light manipulation approach, which selectively enhances emission at specific deep ultraviolet band, could be expanded to other important fields, such as deep ultraviolet light-emitting diodes and solar cells.
Feeding twin-bearing Merino ewes above the metabolisable energy requirements for maintenance during late gestation increases the duration of parturition of the first-born lamb
Authors: Munn Amy L. , van Wettere William H. E. J. , Swinbourne Alyce M. F. , Weaver Alice C.
Published: October 2024

Context In Australia, approximately 53% of lamb deaths are caused by dystocia. One of the main welfare concerns in the sheep industry is under- and overfeeding ewes, which may be contributing to cases of dystocia. Aims This pilot study aimed to investigate how increasing energy intake affects the duration of parturition and predictors of lamb survival. Methods On Day 100 of gestation (dG), 20 twin-bearing and 10 singleton Merino ewes were selected and allocated to three treatment groups; (1) singleton ewes fed at 1.0× maintenance levels (n = 10); (2) twin-bearing ewes fed at 1.0× maintenance levels (n = 10) or (3) twin-bearing ewes fed at 1.25× maintenance (n = 10). Ewes were housed indoors in individual pens. Urine and blood were sampled from ewes on dG 130, 140, then daily from dG 145 through to parturition, and blood was sampled at the onset of parturition and 30 min post-partum. Urine was analysed for pH and blood was analysed for metabolic parameters, mineral concentration and acid–base balance. Predictors of lamb survival from birth to 24 h consisted of weight, rectal temperature, blood glucose and lactate, and body morphology. Key results Serum calcium in late gestation and blood base excess pre-parturition were higher in Singletons 1M compared with Twins 1M (P < 0.05). The Twins 1.25M group took longer to give birth to the first-born lamb (104.4 ± 21.1 min) compared with the Twins 1M group (44.1 ± 6.6 min; P = 0.015). There were no differences in the predictors of lamb survival measures between the twin-bearing groups (P > 0.05). Conclusions Ewes from the Twins 1.25M group took significantly longer to give birth to the first-born lamb. There were no other significant findings between the twin-bearing groups, including lamb liveweight, however, lambs born to ewes from the Twins 1.25 group were numerically heavier, which may explain the increase in parturition length. Implications Feeding ewes above maintenance did not provide any production benefits to metabolic health or any other physiological parameters. Producers should avoid overfeeding ewes during late gestation.