bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A 315–345 GHz quad‐port balanced tripler with inherent suppressions on even‐order harmonics using discrete Schottky diodes
Authors: Li Ruoxue , Yang Hao , Zhou Ren , He Yue , Huang Kun , Jiang Jun , Tian Yaoling
Published: April 2024

A high‐efficiency frequency tripler operating up to 330 GHz is developed based on a novel quad‐port balanced configuration. The proposed circuit could inhibit the even‐order harmonics with great idler loops, leaving out the lossy capacitors required in conventional triplers. Meanwhile, this topology employs two pairs of discrete Schottky diodes, which could increase the power‐handling capability by a factor of 2. In this way, a 330 GHz balanced tripler is implemented with four discrete Schottky diodes mounted on a 30‐μm‐thick quartz substrate. At room temperature, the implemented tripler module features a peak output power of 41.1 mW (@321.4 GHz) and a peak efficiency of 12.4%.
Why We Can't Afford to Turn Our Backs on Equity, Diversity and Inclusion
Authors: Richards Phyllis , Broeckling Jerica
Published: April 2024

Three years after the murder of George Floyd, we find ourselves at a pivotal moment in the fight to advance equity and systemic change towards racial justice in the US. The Supreme Court's decision last year on affirmative action dealt a significant blow to equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) efforts, with thousands of EDI executives leaving or losing their jobs (Chen & Weber, 2023).
Sub‐sampled adaptive trust region method on Riemannian manifolds
Authors: Zhao Shimin , Yan Tao , Zhu Yuanguo
Published: April 2024

We consider the problem of large‐scale finite‐sum minimization on Riemannian manifold. We develop a sub‐sampled adaptive trust region method on Riemannian manifolds. Based on inexact information, we adopt adaptive techniques to flexibly adjust the trust region radius in our method. We present the iteration complexity is when the algorithm attains an ‐second‐order stationary point, which matches the result on trust region method. Numerical results for PCA on Grassmann manifold and low‐rank matrix completion are reported to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed Riemannian method.
Reporting of Complications in Rhinoplasty Randomized Controlled Trials: An Analysis Using the CONSORT Extension for Harms Checklist
Authors: Hemmerich Christian , Corcoran Adam , Johnson Austin L. , Wilson Andrew , Orris Olivia , Arellanes Russell , Vassar Matt
Published: April 2024

Objective

This study aimed to assess the completeness of adverse event (AE) reporting in randomized control trials (RCTs) focused on rhinoplasty, using the Consolidated Standards for Reporting (CONSORT) Extension for Harms checklist.

Study Design

A cross‐sectional design was employed to review RCTs related to rhinoplasty published between January 1, 2005, and January 28, 2022.

Setting

The study analyzed clinical trials on rhinoplasty retrieved from PubMed.

Methods

We performed a comprehension search on PubMed, blind and duplicate screening, and data extraction. Adherence to the 18 recommendations of the CONSORT Extension for Harms was evaluated, with 1 point assigned for each adhered item. Percent adherence was calculated based on the 18 points, taking into account the multiple subcategories within some recommendations. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize adherence—including frequencies, percentages, and 95% confidence intervals.

Results

Our search returned 240 articles, of which 56 met inclusion criteria. No RCTs adhered to all 18 CONSORT Extension for Harms items. Twenty‐six (26/56, 46.4%) adhered to ≥50% of the items, and 30 (30/56, 53.6%) adhered to ≥33.3% of the items. Seven (7/56, 12.5%) RCTs adhered to no items. Across all RCTs, the average number of CONSORT‐Harms items adhered to was 7.2 (7.2/18, 40.0%). The most adhered to item was item 10. Discussion balanced with regard to efficacy and AEs (80.4%, [70.0‐90.8]).

Conclusion

This study highlights the inadequacy of AE reporting in rhinoplasty RCTs according to CONSORT‐Harms guidelines. Urgent efforts are required to bridge this reporting gap and enhance transparency in surgical research, ultimately safeguarding patient well‐being.
Association Between Soft Tissue Measures From Computed Tomography and Upper Airway Collapsibility on Drug‐Induced Sleep Endoscopy
Authors: Thuler Eric R. , Parekh Manan H. , Rodin Jules G. , Seay Everett G. , Wiemken Andrew , Keenan Brendan T. , Schwab Richard J. , Schwartz Alan R. , Dedhia Raj C.
Published: April 2024

Objective

Positive airway pressure (PAP) titration during drug‐induced sleep endoscopy (DISE) provides objective measures of upper airway collapsibility. While skeletal measurements relate to collapsibility measures on DISE, the influence of soft tissue dimensions on upper airway collapsibility is not known. We analyzed the relationship of measures of upper airway soft tissue volumes, specifically soft palate, pharyngeal lateral walls, and tongue, with metrics of collapsibility.

Study Design

Cross‐sectional analysis from a prospective cohort.

Setting

Academic medical center.

Methods

Patients seeking PAP alternative therapies for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) underwent standardized supine computed tomography (CT) acquisition and DISE protocols. The CT analysis primarily focused on soft tissue volumes and, secondarily, on airway and skeletal volumetric measures. DISE with PAP administration (DISE‐PAP) enabled the determination of the pressure at which inspiratory airflow first commenced (pharyngeal critical pressure, PcritA) and the pressure at which inspiratory flow limitation was abolished (pharyngeal opening pressure, PhOP). Both unadjusted and adjusted correlation analyses were performed to understand the relationship between upper airway anatomy and either PcritA or PhOP.

Results

One hundred thirty‐nine subjects completed both CT and DISE‐PAP. On average, patients were male (70.5%), white (84.2%), middle‐aged (56.6 ± 13.5 years), and overweight (29.6 ± 4.7 kg/m2), with moderate‐severe apnea‐hypopnea index (29.7 ± 21.3 events/h). Adjusted for age, sex, body mass index, and skeletal volumes, soft palate, and lateral pharyngeal wall volumes were not associated with PhOP or PcritA, but a larger tongue was associated with more positive PhOP (⍴ = 0.20, P = .02), and more positive PcritA (⍴ = 0.16, P = .07). Exploratory analyses revealed smaller minimum cross‐sectional retropalatal area and intramandibular volume were also associated with increased collapsibility measures.

Conclusion

After controlling for clinical factors and skeletal volume, greater tongue volume was associated with more severe collapsibility during DISE. These results, in concert with previous work, suggest that greater tongue volume in a smaller skeletal dimensions contribute to the severity of airway collapsibility, a key driver of OSA pathogenesis.
Geographic, Sociodemographic, and Clinical Factors Associated With Parental Self‐Efficacy in Pediatric Patients With Hearing Loss
Authors: Khalsa Inderpreet Kaur , Florentine Michelle M. , Liao Elizabeth N. , Stephans Jihyun , Chan Dylan K.
Published: April 2024

Objective

To identify geographic, sociodemographic, and clinical factors associated with parental self‐efficacy in a diverse cohort of deaf or hard‐of‐hearing (DHH) children.

Study Design

Cross‐sectional study.

Setting

Tertiary children's hospital.

Methods

Four hundred forty parents of DHH children aged 0 to 17 completed the 25‐item Scale of Parental Involvement and Self‐Efficacy (SPISE) survey from 2014 to 2022. Residential addresses were geocoded and assigned Area Deprivation Index and Social Vulnerability Index rankings, and univariable and multivariable analyses were conducted using sociodemographic and clinical variables, including sex, race/ethnicity, insurance type, survey language, age at the survey, comorbidities, newborn hearing screening results, and hearing loss laterality and severity.

Results

Compared to English and Spanish‐speaking parents, Chinese‐speaking parents were associated with overall lower parental self‐efficacy and involvement (regression coefficient = −0.518, [−0.929, −0.106]), Cohen's d = 0.606) and lower scores on items related to their ability to affect multiple aspects of their child's development and expression of thoughts as well as competency in checking and putting on their child's sensory device. Across univariable and multivariable analyses, besides Chinese language, all other sociodemographic, clinical, and geographic variables were not associated with SPISE score.

Conclusion

To achieve the best patient outcomes, care teams can use the SPISE to evaluate parental self‐efficacy and provide targeted support to parents at risk for having lower knowledge and confidence scores about critical skills necessary to facilitate their child's auditory access and language development. Notably, this study found similar reports of parental efficacy across various sociodemographic, clinical, and geographic variables but significantly lower SPISE scores in Chinese‐speaking families.
Acquired NF2 mutation confers resistance to TRK inhibition in an ex vivoLMNA::NTRK1‐rearranged soft‐tissue sarcoma cell model
Authors: Chen Yanjiang , Steiner Sabrina , Hagedorn Catherine , Kollar Sarah , Pliego‐Mendieta Alicia , Haberecker Martina , Plock Jan , Britschgi Christian , Planas‐Paz Lara , Pauli Chantal
Published: April 2024

Genomic rearrangements of the neurotrophic receptor tyrosine kinase genes (NTRK1, NTRK2, and NTRK3) are the most common mechanism of oncogenic activation for this family of receptors, resulting in sustained cancer cell proliferation. Several targeted therapies have been approved for tumours harbouring NTRK fusions and a new generation of TRK inhibitors has already been developed due to acquired resistance. We established a patient‐derived LMNA::NTRK1‐rearranged soft‐tissue sarcoma cell model ex vivo with an acquired resistance to targeted TRK inhibition. Molecular profiling of the resistant clones revealed an acquired NF2 loss of function mutation that was absent in the parental cell model. Parental cells showed continuous sensitivity to TRK‐targeted treatment, whereas the resistant clones were insensitive. Furthermore, resistant clones showed upregulation of the MAPK and mTOR/AKT pathways in the gene expression based on RNA sequencing data and increased sensitivity to MEK and mTOR inhibitor therapy. Drug synergy was seen using trametinib and rapamycin in combination with entrectinib. Medium‐throughput drug screening further identified small compounds as potential drug candidates to overcome resistance as monotherapy or in combination with entrectinib. In summary, we developed a comprehensive model of drug resistance in an LMNA::NTRK1‐rearranged soft‐tissue sarcoma and have broadened the understanding of acquired drug resistance to targeted TRK therapy. Furthermore, we identified drug combinations and small compounds to overcome acquired drug resistance and potentially guide patient care in a functional precision oncology setting. © 2024 The Authors. The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
Evaluation of composites based on virgin rubber/devulcanized rubber reinforced with chemically and radiation activated polyurethane scrap for possible applications
Authors: Abdel‐Hakim Ahmed , Awad Eman H. , El‐Nemr Khaled F.
Published: April 2024

Reusing industrial waste is one of the new tactics being used to fight the dumping of solid waste for environmental protection. In the current work, the waste polyurethane (WPU) was ground to a fine powder and used for reinforcement of devulcanized waste rubber/styrene butadiene rubber (DWR/SBR) blends. DWR/SBR/WPU composites were prepared using (0, 3, 6, 9, 15, 30) phr (parts per hundred of rubber) of WPU. It was hypothesized that the treatment of WPU with trimethylolpropane triacrylate (TMPTMA) and irradiated at 10 kGy would improve its compatibility with the DWR/SBR blend and, consequently, its reinforcement efficacy. The incorporation of 30 phr of treated WPU (TWPU) improved the tensile strength (TS) by 47.7% and 8.6% compared to neat DWR/SBR and composites containing 30 phr of untreated WPU (UWPU). In addition, the incorporation of TWPU improved other mechanical characteristics such as tear strength, hardness, and abrasion resistance. As a result of increasing polarity and cross‐link density within the DWR/SBR blend after the addition of polar WPU, the resistance to motor oil was improved. The outcomes are encouraging from the standpoint of the circular economy and help produce high‐performing, reasonably priced DWR/SBR composites for a range of industrial uses, especially in the floor tiles application.

Highlights

Waste polyurethane (WPU) was activated using gamma irradiation in the presence of TMPTMA.

The treatment of WPU improved its compatibility with DWR/SBR blend.

The impact of WPU treatment on the properties of DWR/SBR blend was investigated.

TWPU improved the mechanical properties of DWR/SBR blend more than UWPU.

TWPU increased the motor oil resistance of DWR/SBR blend more than UWPU.
Encapsulated allyl isothiocyanate improves soil distribution, efficacy against soil‐borne pathogens and tomato yield
Authors: Zhang Yi , Fang Wensheng , Yan Dongdong , Ji Yutong , Chen Xinhua , Guo Anmin , Song Zhaoxin , Li Yuan , Cao Aocheng , Wang Qiuxia
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND

Crop quality, yield and farmer income are reduced by soil‐borne diseases, nematodes and weeds, although these can be controlled by allyl isothiocyanate (AITC), a plant‐derived soil fumigant. However, its efficacy against soil‐borne pathogens varies, mainly because of its chemical instability and uneven distribution in the soil. Formulation modification is an effective way to optimize pesticide application. We encapsulated AITC in modified diatomite granules (GR) and measured the formulation's loading content and stability, environmental fate and efficacy against soil‐borne pathogens, and its impact on the growth and yield of tomatoes.

RESULTS

We observed that an AITC loading content in the granules of 27.6% resulted in a degradation half‐life of GR that was 1.94 times longer than 20% AITC emulsifiable concentrate in water (EW) and shorter than AITC technical (TC) grade. The stable and more even distribution of GR in soil resulted in relatively consistent and acceptable control of soil‐borne pathogens. Soil containing AITC residues that remained 10–24 days after GR fumigation were not phytotoxic to cucumber seeds. GR significantly reduced soil‐borne pest populations, and tomato growth and yield increased as AITC dosage increased. GR containing an AITC dose of 20 g m−2 effectively controlled pathogens in soil for about 7 months and improved tomato yield by 108%.

CONCLUSION

Our research demonstrates the benefits of soil fumigation with loaded AITC over other formulations for effective pest control, and improved tomato plant growth and fruit yield. Fumigant encapsulation appears to be a useful method to improve pest and disease control, environmental performance and fumigant commercial sustainability. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
High‐Resolution Spectroscopy of Blue High‐Power Laser Diodes with a Fabry–Pérot Interferometer
Authors: Kunzmann Dominic J. , Kohlstedt Raphael , Uhlig Lukas , Schwarz Ulrich T.
Published: April 2024

In this work, it is aimed to study the interplay of different longitudinal mode combs corresponding to higher‐order lateral modes of broad‐area Fabry–Pérot‐type laser diodes. Coherent coupling of longitudinal modes of different mode combs influences the near‐ and far‐field pattern of the diode. Herein, commercial state‐of‐the‐art high‐power laser diodes based on the (Al,In)GaN material system in the blue spectral range with a 40 μm broad ridge are investigated. To spectrally resolve the different lateral modes, a sequential combination of a high‐resolution double grating spectrometer and a Fabry–Pérot interferometer (FPI) is used. The grating spectrometer acts as bandpass with a spectral width smaller than the free spectral range (FSR) of the FPI. The FPI with a finesse of approximately boosts the resolution to 0.08 pm. A spectral clustering of lateral modes with increasing current and also a variation of the number of distinguishable lateral modes between 7 and 11 are observed. Within the current range from 1.25Ith to 2.25Ith, there is no clear evidence for coherent coupling. It is concluded that mode‐pulling is not strong enough to coherently couple modes on the investigated time and wavelength range.
Homoepitaxial Regrowth of AlGaN on AlGaN Templates Prepared via Chemical Mechanical Polishing and Its Application to UV‐B Laser Diodes
Authors: Yamada Ryoya , Kondo Ryosuke , Miyake Rintaro , Nishibayasi Toma , Matsubara Eri , Imoto Yoshinori , Iwayama Sho , Takeuchi Tetsuya , Kamiyama Satoshi , Miyake Hideto , Iwaya Motoaki
Published: April 2024

In this article, the homoepitaxial regrowth of AlGaN on AlGaN templates fabricated via chemical mechanical polishing (CMP) on periodically aligned AlN nanopillars is reported on. These templates are lattice relaxed according to X‐Ray diffraction reciprocal space mapping measurements, with a low dislocation density of ≈3 × 108 cm−2. However, the AlGaN surface has hillocks exceeding 104 cm−2. Contrastingly, no hillocks are observed on the homoepitaxially regrown AlGaN on the CMP–AlGaN template and after the UV‐B laser diode (LD) layer structure is crystallized and grown on the homoepitaxially regrown AlGaN. Furthermore, when this wafer is processed for LD fabrication, room‐temperature pulsed oscillation is confirmed in the UV‐B region at a wavelength of 296 nm. The turn‐on voltage and operating voltage also reduce by ≈2 V.
Bandgap Energy of Ion‐Doped LaMnO3 Nanoparticles
Authors: Apostolov Angel T. , Apostolova Iliana N. , Wesselinowa Julia M.
Published: April 2024

Based on the s‐d model combined with Green's function technique, the magnetization and the bandgap energy of ion‐doped nanoparticles at La sites are calculated. Due to the change of the valency of Mn ions, from to , as well as the difference between the ionic radii of the doping and host ions, the exchange interaction is modified which allows a tuning of the magnetization and the bandgap energy. For nanoparticles, the bandgap is decreased by Ag and Ba doping, whereas it is increased by K and Sr doping. Macroscopic quantities such as the magnetization and the bandgap energy are directly related to microscopic parameters of the model. The simulations are qualitatively in good agreement with the experimental data.
Curcumin as a natural potential drug candidate against important zoonotic viruses and prions: A narrative review
Authors: Azarkar Setareh , Abedi Masoud , Lavasani Ali Sheikh Olya , Ammameh Atefeh Heidar , Goharipanah Fatemeh , Baloochi Kimiya , Bakhshi Hasan , Jafari Amirsajad
Published: April 2024

Zoonotic diseases are major public health concerns and undeniable threats to human health. Among Zoonotic diseases, zoonotic viruses and prions are much more difficult to eradicate, as they result in higher infections and mortality rates. Several investigations have shown curcumin, the active ingredient of turmeric, to have wide spectrum properties such as anti‐microbial, anti‐vascular, anti‐inflammatory, anti‐tumor, anti‐neoplastic, anti‐oxidant, and immune system modulator properties. In the present study, we performed a comprehensive review of existing in silico, in vitro, and in vivo evidence on the antiviral (54 important zoonotic viruses) and anti‐prion properties of curcumin and curcuminoids in PubMed, Google Scholar, Science Direct, Scopus, and Web of Science databases. Database searches yielded 13,380 results, out of which 216 studies were eligible according to inclusion criteria. Of 216 studies, 135 (62.5%), 24 (11.1%), and 19 (8.8%) were conducted on the effect of curcumin and curcuminoids against SARS‐CoV‐2, Influenza A virus, and dengue virus, respectively. This review suggests curcumin and curcuminoids as promising therapeutic agents against a wide range of viral zoonoses by targeting different proteins and signaling pathways.
Plant‐derived flavonoids are a potential source of drugs for the treatment of liver fibrosis
Authors: Zhao Bolin , Liu Kai , Liu Xing , Li Qiuxia , Li Zhibei , Xi Jingjing , Xie Fan , Li Xiaofang
Published: April 2024

Liver fibrosis is a dynamic pathological process that can be triggered by any chronic liver injury. If left unaddressed, it will inevitably progress to the severe outcomes of liver cirrhosis or even hepatocellular carcinoma. In the past few years, the prevalence and fatality of hepatic fibrosis have been steadily rising on a global scale. As a result of its intricate pathogenesis, the quest for pharmacological interventions targeting liver fibrosis has remained a formidable challenge. Currently, no pharmaceuticals are exhibiting substantial clinical efficacy in the management of hepatic fibrosis. Hence, it is of utmost importance to expedite the development of novel therapeutics for the treatment of this condition. Various research studies have revealed the ability of different natural flavonoid compounds to alleviate or reverse hepatic fibrosis through a range of mechanisms, which are related to the regulation of liver inflammation, oxidative stress, synthesis and secretion of fibrosis‐related factors, hepatic stellate cells activation, and proliferation, and extracellular matrix synthesis and degradation by these compounds. This review summarizes the progress of research on different sources of natural flavonoids with inhibitory effects on liver fibrosis over the last decades. The anti‐fibrotic effects of natural flavonoids have been increasingly studied, making them a potential source of drugs for the treatment of liver fibrosis due to their good efficacy and biosafety.
Time‐optimal trajectory generation and observer‐based hierarchical sliding mode control for ballbots with system constraints
Authors: Vu Duc Cuong , Pham Minh Duc , Nguyen Thi Thuy Hang , Nguyen Thi Van Anh , Nguyen Tung Lam
Published: April 2024

This paper introduces a comprehensive motion planning–tracking–safety constraint scheme for a 3D ballbot system. A nonlinear control for the 3D ballbot system is designed based on three separate planes by utilizing extended state observer (ESO) to estimate coupling mechanisms. Three virtual control signals are generated from these distinct planes and can be used for formulating actual control signals. To overcome the complexity of nonlinear motion equations, flatness theory is used to construct the time‐optimal trajectory through an optimization problem, facilitating smooth movement of the ballbot, and obstacle avoidance based on RRT* waypoints. Furthermore, our work manipulates the hierarchical sliding mode controller (HSMC) as the nominal controller to ensure that the ballbot tracks to the optimal trajectory, unifying with the exponential control barrier function (ECBF) to address safety constraints in the body's deflection angle. Through extensive simulations and comparative analysis, the system demonstrates its effectiveness and safe operation in various working conditions.
Distributed formation control for leader‐follower quadrotor unmanned aerial vehicles system based on practical sliding mode and event‐triggered mechanisms
Authors: Lin Xumei , Lin Qihang , Yin Chenglong , Peng Chengcheng
Published: April 2024

This article investigates the distributed formation trajectory tracking problem of a homogeneous quadrotor unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) system using a leader‐follower consensus protocol in three‐dimensional space. To enable the follower UAVs in the swarm to track a single leader UAV and form a desired formation under undirected topology, a six‐degree‐of‐freedom dynamic model with bounded time‐varying disturbances is established, which is divided into a tracking subsystem and a stabilizing subsystem. A practical sliding mode control (PSMC) based event‐triggered algorithm is proposed to achieve distributed formation control for a leader‐follower quadrotor UAVs system and reduce the network transmission resources. To address the potential issue of inter‐UAVs collisions during formation, an artificial potential field (APF) method is introduced in the tracking subsystem, and an disturbance observer is introduced in the stabilizing subsystem to estimate the unknown external disturbances. The boundedness of signals in the closed‐loop system is demonstrated using Lyapunov stability theory, and the exclusion of Zeno behavior can be ensured by having a positive lower bound on the inter‐event time between two consecutive triggering events. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed event‐triggered algorithm is validated through simulation examples.
The Ayuso Administration menace: The challenges posed by the derogation of the Madrid antidiscrimination policies for LGBTI citizens
Authors: Argyriou Konstantinos , Platero Lucas , Gallardo‐Nieto Elena
Published: April 2024

Madrid is the first region in Spain whose government has managed to dismantle an already existing LGBTI legal framework, going against the recently voted Legal Gender Identity and LGBTI Law that applies at a State level (4/2023). The conservative government of Madrid has modified two regional laws to re‐establish gatekeeping and gender surveillance, thus putting the depathologization and self‐determination of gender identity at stake. LGBTI minors are particularly exposed to this measure, as the partial derogation of aspects of the Madrid law directly affects their autonomy and self‐determination. Our policy analysis examines the contradictions and severe effects of this law reform. We employ a cross‐reading of the State and regional statutory terms that are being jeopardized, to reveal the different levels of policy making in which the Spanish trans community is obliged to obey. We further call for further analysis and follow up of the consequences of these law reforms and the impact on LGBTI people of all ages.
Microneedle Patch for Transdermal Sequential Delivery of KGF‐2 and aFGF to Enhance Burn Wound Therapy
Authors: He Huacheng , Huang Wen , Zhang Shihui , Li Jie , Zhang Jian , Li Bingxin , Xu Jie , Luo Yuting , Shi Huiling , Li Yue , Xiao Jian , Ezekiel Odinaka Cassandra , Li Xiaokun , Wu Jiang
Published: April 2024

Severe burn wounds usually destroy key cells’ functions of the skin resulting in delayed re‐epithelization and wound regeneration. Promoting key cells’ activities is crucial for burn wound repair. It is well known that keratinocyte growth factor‐2 (KGF‐2) participates in the proliferation and morphogenesis of epithelial cells while acidic fibroblast growth factor (aFGF) is a key mediator for fibroblast and endothelial cell growth and differentiation. However, thick eschar and the harsh environment of a burn wound often decrease the delivery efficiency of fibroblast growth factor (FGF) to the wound site. Therefore, herein a novel microneedle patch for sequential transdermal delivery of KGF‐2 and aFGF is fabricated to enhance burn wound therapy. aFGF is first loaded in the nanoparticle (NPaFGF) and then encapsulated NPaFGF with KGF‐2 in the microneedle patch (KGF‐2/NPaFGF@MN). The result shows that KGF‐2/NPaFGF@MN can successfully get across the eschar and sequentially release KGF‐2 and aFGF. Additional data demonstrated that KGF‐2/NPaFGF@MN achieved a quicker wound closure rate with reduced necrotic tissues, faster re‐epithelialization, enhanced collagen deposition, and increased neo‐vascularization. Further evidence suggests that improved wound healing is regulated by significantly elevated expressions of hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1 alpha (HIF‐1ɑ) and heat shock protein 90 (Hsp90) in burn wounds. All these data proved that KGF‐2/NPaFGF@MN is an effective treatment for wound healing of burns.
Harnessing Pb–S Interactions for Long‐Term Water Stability in Cesium Lead Halide Perovskite Nanocrystals
Authors: Ahlawat Monika , Sahu Ankita , Govind Rao Vishal
Published: April 2024

Lead halide perovskite nanocrystals (LHP NCs) have garnered attention as promising light‐harvesting materials for optoelectronics and photovoltaic devices, attributed to their impressive optoelectronic properties. However, their susceptibility to moisture‐induced degradation has hindered their practical applications. Despite various encapsulation strategies, challenges persist in maintaining their stability and optoelectronic performance simultaneously. Here, a ligand exchange approach is proposed using (11‐mercaptoundecyl)‐N,N,N‐trimethylammonium bromide (MUTAB) to enhance the stability and dispersibility of CsPbBr3 (CPB) NCs in aqueous environments. MUTAB enables effective surface passivation of the CPB NCs via robust Pb–S interactions at the S‐terminal while concurrently directing water molecules through the unbound cationic N‐terminal or vice versa, ensuring water dispersibility and stability. Spectroscopic analysis confirms retained structural and optical integrity post‐ligand exchange. Crucially, MUTAB‐bound CPB NCs exhibit sustained charge transfer properties, demonstrated by aqueous colloidal oxidation reactions. This ligand exchange strategy offers a promising pathway for advancing LHP NCs toward practical optoelectronic and photocatalytic applications.
A Strategy for Partial Replacement of Lime by Limestone and Its Impact on Basic Oxygen Furnace Steelmaking
Authors: Gupta Prakash , Sarkar Sidhartha , Roy Tapas Kumar
Published: April 2024

Production of steel in a sustainable manner is gaining importance day by day. Optimizing fluxes in basic oxygen furnace (BOF) steelmaking, such as partial replacement of lime with limestone, can be a step toward this. The heat available in BOF can decompose the limestone which partially avoids the need for calcination in lime kiln. However, the size, quantity, and time of limestone addition in BOF are important parameters as they influence the decomposition behavior of limestone. The associated problems of slopping, presence of uncalcined limestone, fines generation, etc. are also influenced by these parameters. In the present study, laboratory experiments are conducted by changing the size, temperature, and time of exposure which help in understanding high‐temperature behavior of limestone. With these inputs, along with theoretical calculations, a trial is conducted in a 160 t BOF by limestone addition and replacing equivalent amount of lime. The study focusses on the benefits of limestone addition in BOF along with other aspects, that is, impact on blow profiles, slag condition, lining wear, etc. Characterization of slags help in explaining the improvement observed during this trial. The article presents the findings of laboratory studies and limestone addition trials and uniquely highlights its overall impact on BOF steelmaking.
Effect of uniaxial loading on the spalling of concrete panels for Melbourne's Metro Tunnel Project
Authors: Guerrieri Maurice , Lee Duffy , Lee Vern , Haines Luke
Published: April 2024

The Metro Tunnel is a Victorian Government funded infrastructure project which will create a new end‐to‐end rail line from Sunbury in the west to Cranbourne/Pakenham in the south east, with bigger and better trains, next generation signaling technology and five new underground stations. This article provides a detailed summary of the structural fire testing requirements for the platform tunnel side wall and arch lining in the Metro Tunnel's State Library and Town Hall stations. Contrasted to building fires, tunnel fires are more significant within a few minutes due to the confined space which can cause concrete spalling and jeopardize the bearing capacity of the tunnel, which is a significant concern to designers. The catastrophic European tunnel fire events in 1999 and 2001 led to the development of innovative regulations and recommendations, including guidelines endorsed by the European Federation of National (EFNARC 132F r3:2006) and Efectis R0695:2020. This paper explains the methodology taken to design the fire rated concrete test for the platform tunnel side wall and arch lining in the State Library and Town Hall stations of Melbourne's Metro Tunnel Project for structural stability for the period of a serious fire event. For the first time, uniaxial loading (500T) was applied to five large‐scale flat concrete panels (1800 × 1800 × 400 mm) which are normally unloaded during fire exposure and exposed to the RABT ZTV (rail) fire curve. The first testing program investigated the influence of polypropylene dosage in the concrete mix design and its effect on the magnitude and severity of concrete spalling. The results indicated that the recommended 2.0 kg/m3 polypropylene dosage requirement as specified by Eurocode is conservative. Concrete mix designs with a stable aggregate and the correct curing regime can mitigate spalling at significantly lower polypropylene dosage rates. The water pooling effect was evident during the fire testing and the surface cracking that developed was vertical to the surface, allowing for the release of the pore water pressure build‐up.
Bond shear modulus in reinforced concrete at high temperature: A design‐oriented approach
Authors: Bamonte Patrick , Gambarova Pietro G. , Lo Monte Francesco
Published: April 2024

Modeling bond behavior in either ordinary or high‐temperature conditions requires the knowledge of bond shear modulus—called also slip modulus or simply bond stiffness—that has received so far scanty attention because of the greater interest for bond as a guarantee of equilibrium at the Ultimate Limit State (and in fire conditions) than as a means to guarantee both equilibrium and compatibility at the Serviceability Limit State (and in fire/post‐fire conditions). The limited knowledge of bond shear modulus makes it difficult to numerically model such phenomena as tension stiffening, that controls the structural behavior in both ordinary and fire conditions. The general trends identified by examining eleven experimental campaigns with anchored bars covering 27 different cases and temperatures ranging between 20 and 800°C are the starting point of the design‐oriented laws proposed in this study about bond shear modulus as a function of concrete residual strength and temperature. A simple shear‐lag model is introduced for bond shear modulus at room temperature, as its evaluation from test data is no simple matter due to initial chemical adhesion and different test procedures. Bond shear modulus is shown to be a decreasing function of concrete residual compressive strength and of the maximum temperature reached by the bar‐concrete system. Design charts are proposed to allow the designer to identify the value of the bond stiffness on the basis of the max. temperature, of concrete residual strength and of bar diameter, making it possible to realistically model tension stiffening in fire‐damaged RC structures.
Assessing the effects of Na2SO4 and NaCl on the properties of geopolymer concrete subjected to elevated temperatures
Authors: Yazıcı Nisa , Karagöl Fatma
Published: April 2024

Since concrete is exposed to chemical, mechanical, or physical deteriorating effects simultaneously or successively under environmental conditions, this study focused on the durability of geopolymer concretes containing ground blast furnace slag (GGBFS) and fly ash (FA) under the effects of sulfate and salt after elevated temperatures. For this aim, five FA‐based geopolymer concrete mixtures with different GGBFS contents were produced and cured at 90°C for 72 h. First, the produced samples were exposed to 200, 400, 600, and 800°C for 2 h. Then, the samples were put into 5% sodium sulfate (Na2SO4) and 5% sodium chloride (NaCl) solutions for 30 days. The impacts of elevated temperature + Na2SO4 and elevated temperature + NaCl on geopolymer concrete were investigated by compressive strength, mass loss, visual examination, capillary water absorption, x‐ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR). As a result, although cracking or strength decreases in concrete have been observed after only elevated temperatures, it has exhibited significant resistance to the integrated deterioration influences, has not disintegrated, and maintained its integrity under appropriate mix design and curing conditions. Shortly, the results demonstrated the ability of geopolymer concrete subjected to elevated temperatures with acceptable strength and durability under chemical effects, even if left for a short time.
Experimental and simulative study on seismic performance of stiffener‐plate PEC beam‐column joint
Authors: Chen PingJun , Li Junhua , Wang Weichen , Liu Quan , Yang Yukun
Published: April 2024

An innovative assembled stiffener‐plate PEC beam‐column joint (SP‐PEC) is proposed to improve better constructability. In this paper, 12 PEC beam‐column joint specimens were subjected to quasi‐static cyclic tests. The design parameters included the thickness of the stiffener‐plate (equal‐stiffness thickness at load standard combination, full‐stiffness thickness of the cross‐section, and 120% of full‐stiffness thickness of the cross‐section) and the beam‐column connection with or without the stub beam. The results revealed that the assembled SP‐PEC beam‐column joint exhibited better seismic performance than the conventional PEC beam‐column concrete joint. The strength degradation coefficients of SP‐PEC beam‐column nodes are all greater than 0.92, and the stiffness decreases slowly. The specimens had good bearing capacity, deformation ability, energy dissipation capacity, and stiffness under a reasonable stiffener‐plate thickness. Then, the bearing capacity calculation formulae of the novel joint with certain prediction accuracy were proposed. Besides, the finite element models of the test specimens were established in ABAQUS and validated against the test results. Finally, further investigations of the SP‐PEC joint configuration by finite element analysis and engineering design recommendations for the assembled SP‐PEC beam‐column joint were provided.
Altai Mountains – cradle of hybrids and introgressants: A case study in Veronica subg. Pseudolysimachium (Plantaginaceae)
Authors: Khan Gulzar , Mayland‐Quellhorst Eike , Kosachev Petr A. , Mandáková Terezie , Lysak Martin A. , Albach Dirk C.
Published: April 2024

Mountains form a diverse mosaic of microhabitats over small distances created by changes in climate, soil, and water availability. A key to adaptation of plants to such microhabitats is genetic variation; however, natural accumulation of genetic variation through mutation is slow and often not sufficient alone. Adaptive introgression via hybridization is an alternative to generate genetic variation. Here, we investigate hybridization and discuss its adaptive role in Veronica subg. Pseudolysimachium at their Altai Mountains distribution. To support our hypotheses of frequent hybridization, we genotyped thousands of SNPs for 233 individuals from 10 species and 7 putative hybrids previously described based on morphology. We employed Bayesian and likelihood statistical models and supported our results by morphometric analysis and genomic in situ hybridization (GISH). The results suggest that almost all the individuals of the putative hybrids are of F1 type. The GISH investigation in one case strongly supports homoploid hybridization (origin of V. ×schmakovii from V. longifolia and V. porphyriana. Divergence times of Altai Veronica species are estimated to be within 1–2 million years ago with high probability of gene flow over that time. Our results also demonstrate that the direction of gene flow is mainly from the locally endemic V. porphyriana. We hypothesize that the large Siberian plains and topographically diverse foreland of the Altai Mountains provide an ideal setting for hybridization with the potential for adaptive introgression of alleles conferring tolerance to cooler climates, to the lowland species migrating into the Altai Mountains.
Factors predicting teachers' implementation of inquiry‐based teaching practices: Analysis of South African TIMSS 2019 data from an ecological perspective
Authors: Ogegbo Ayodele Abosede , Ramnarain Umesh , Krajcik Joseph
Published: April 2024

Inquiry‐Based Teaching Practice (IBTP) is an essential component of science education, and promoting its implementation is at the heart of various reform efforts. Even though science teachers regard IBTP as an essential pedagogical method, they rarely use it for various reasons. This study utilizes Bronfenbrenner's ecological framework to examine potential factors at various levels of the educational ecosystem that predict the implementation of inquiry‐based teaching practices among Grade 9 science teachers in South Africa. To this end, quantitative data from 537 educators who participated in the Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS) 2019 national assessment were utilized. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and hierarchical multiple regression analysis. Results revealed that four variables at different socioeconomic levels were perceived to strongly predict teachers' implementation of inquiry teaching practices. These factors include teachers' job satisfaction, instructional resource shortage, and teachers' perception of the significance of various assessment strategies at the mesosystem level as well as teachers' participation in professional development at the exosystem level. Significant correlations exist between some of the predictive variables. Implications for policy are discussed.
Nephroprotective effects of coriander (Coriandrum sativum) leaves aqueous extracts in aristolochic acid‐intoxicated zebrafish embryos
Authors: Tsai Jen‐Ning , Wang Yun‐Hsin , Lin Po‐Ju , Chang Chiung‐Fang , Sun Chiao‐Yin , Chen Yau‐Hung
Published: April 2024

Coriander is a notable medicinal plant known for its diverse properties, including anti‐inflammatory, antioxidant, anticancer, analgesic, and anti‐diabetic effects. Despite its recognized health benefits, research on its nephroprotective properties is limited. This study aimed to investigate the potential nephroprotective properties of an aqueous extract derived from coriander leaves using an aristolochic acid‐intoxicated zebrafish model. To assess kidney abnormalities induced by aristolochic acid (AA), we utilized the transgenic line Tg(wt1b:egfp), which expresses green fluorescent protein (GFP) in the kidney. Our previous report indicated that AA exposure leads to acute renal failure in zebrafish characterized by kidney malformation and impaired renal function. However, pretreatment of coriander extract (CE) can mitigate kidney malformations induced by AA. In addition, CE pretreatment reduces the accumulation of red blood cells in the glomerular region. To verify the nephroprotective effects of CE, we analyzed renal function by measuring the glomerular filtration rate in zebrafish embryos. Results indicate that CE partially mitigates renal function impairment caused by AA exposure, suggesting its potential to attenuate AA‐induced renal failure. Mechanistically, pretreatment with CE reduces the expression of proinflammatory and proapoptotic genes induced by AA. This suggests that CE likely alleviates acute renal failure by reducing inflammation and apoptosis. As a result, we regard zebrafish as a valuable model for screening natural compounds that have the potential to alleviate AA‐induced nephrotoxicity.
Global and regional seroprevalence of coxiellosis in small ruminants: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Ahaduzzaman Md , Reza Md Moktadir Billah
Published: April 2024

Background

Coxiellosis is a neglected zoonosis for occupationally exposed people in many parts of the world. Sheep and goats are two important small ruminants that act as reservoirs for human contamination; however, there is a lack of comprehensive data on the epidemiological aspects of coxiellosis in sheep and goats at regional and global levels. The aim of this study was to systematically review the available articles on seroprevalence of coxiellosis in sheep and goats and estimate the overall seroprevalence in different regions.

Methods

A systematic search strategy was performed in five electronic repositories for articles published until December 2021. Relevant data were extracted from the selected articles based on the inclusion criteria. A random effect meta‐analysis model was used to analyse the data. Results are presented as the prevalence of seropositivity as a percentage and 95% confidence intervals.

Results

The global pooled seroprevalence of coxiellosis in sheep was 17.38% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 15.59%–19.17%). Overall, the regional level pooled prevalence estimates in sheep ranged from 15.04% (95% CI: 7.68%–22.40%) to 19.14% (95% CI: 15.51%–22.77%), depending on region. The global pooled seroprevalence of coxiellosis in goats was 22.60% (95% CI: 19.54%–25.66%). Overall, the regional level pooled prevalence estimates in goats ranged from 6.33% (95% CI: 2.96%–9.71%) to 55.13% (95% CI: 49.61%–60.65%), depending on the region. The prevalence estimates also varied significantly in both sheep and goats depending on age, sex, and rearing systems of the animals (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Seroprevalence of coxiellosis in both sheep and goats is considerable. Routine monitoring of the sheep and goat populations is needed to prevent spillover infection in other livestock and humans.
Climate change and migration: A review and new framework for analysis
Authors: Daoust Gabrielle , Selby Jan
Published: April 2024

This article presents a new interpretive framework for understanding the implications of climate change for migration, and reviews and reflects on existing evidence and research gaps in light of this framework. Most existing climate‐migration research is heavily environment‐centric, even when acknowledging the importance of contextual or intervening factors. In contrast, the framework proposed here considers five different pathways through which climate change is affecting, or might affect, migration: short‐term shocks, long‐term climatic and related changes, environmental “pull” factors, climate adaptation and mitigation measures, and perceptions and narratives. In reviewing the existing evidence relating to each of these pathways, the paper finds among other things that short‐term shocks may simultaneously increase and reduce migration; that the evidence on long‐term trends provides a weak basis for understanding future dynamics; and that more attention needs to be paid to the other three pathways, by researchers and policymakers alike. Overall, the proposed framework and associated evidence review suggest a different and broader understanding of the migration implications of climate change from that outlined in the IPCC's most recent assessment, or in many existing reviews.

This article is categorized under:

Climate and Development Knowledge and Action in Development
Emerging roles of RNA‐binding proteins in fatty liver disease
Authors: Adesanya Oluwafolajimi , Das Diptatanu , Kalsotra Auinash
Published: April 2024

A rampant and urgent global health issue of the 21st century is the emergence and progression of fatty liver disease (FLD), including alcoholic fatty liver disease and the more heterogenous metabolism‐associated (or non‐alcoholic) fatty liver disease (MAFLD/NAFLD) phenotypes. These conditions manifest as disease spectra, progressing from benign hepatic steatosis to symptomatic steatohepatitis, cirrhosis, and, ultimately, hepatocellular carcinoma. With numerous intricately regulated molecular pathways implicated in its pathophysiology, recent data have emphasized the critical roles of RNA‐binding proteins (RBPs) in the onset and development of FLD. They regulate gene transcription and post‐transcriptional processes, including pre‐mRNA splicing, capping, and polyadenylation, as well as mature mRNA transport, stability, and translation. RBP dysfunction at every point along the mRNA life cycle has been associated with altered lipid metabolism and cellular stress response, resulting in hepatic inflammation and fibrosis. Here, we discuss the current understanding of the role of RBPs in the post‐transcriptional processes associated with FLD and highlight the possible and emerging therapeutic strategies leveraging RBP function for FLD treatment.

This article is categorized under:

RNA in Disease and Development > RNA in Disease