bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effects of a Minimal Length on the Kerr Metric and the Hawking Temperature
Authors: Hess Peter O. , Maghlaoui Leila
Published: October 2024

We first resume the main properties of the pseudo‐complex General Relativity (pcGR). We show that the pcGR includes a generalized Mach's principle, namely that mass not only curved space–time but also changes vacuum properties. Then the Hawking temperature is determined within pcGR for a black hole, with varying the intensity of the dark energy around the central mass. In particular we investigate the effects of a minimal length, which is a consequence of pcGR. Three cases are studied: (i) The pc‐Schwarzschild case with zero minimal length; (ii) The pc‐Kerr case with zero minimal length; and finaly (iii) the pc‐Kerr‐case with a minimal length. We show that Hawking radiation can also be emitted in a curved space (the gravitational Schwinger effect), not necessarily at the surface of a star. When an event horizon is present, the theory predicts the occurrence of negative temperature, which generate negative pressure, stabilizing the star in this manner. We also show that the effects of a minimal length are only noticeable for very small black hole masses, showing that their formation is inhibited.
Spontaneous spinal epidural hematoma with hemiparesis: A stroke mimic
Authors: Suzuki Mio , Kano Yasuhiro , Watanuki Satoshi , Murata Kengo
Published: October 2024

Key Clinical Message

Spontaneous spinal epidural hematoma (SSEH) is a rare cause of neck pain and hemiparesis. Clinicians should keep SSEH in mind as a rare stroke mimic presenting with hemiparesis to avoid needless and potentially hazardous thrombolytic therapy. Taking a careful history is useful for making a correct diagnosis.
Determination of Chain Transfer Constants of Alcohols for High‐Pressure Polyethylene Polymerization
Authors: Euler Bueno Laura , Zentel Kristina Maria , Busch Markus
Published: October 2024

In low‐density polyethylene (LDPE) production, low‐molecular‐weight species are used as chain transfer agents (CTAs). They reduce the degree of polymerization, which has an impact on the polymer properties, such as processability. To specifically adjust the product properties, a detailed understanding of the transfer kinetics to CTAs is indispensable. Thus, the transfer activity of various primary, secondary, and tertiary alcohols as well as diols was investigated experimentally between 120 °C and 250 °C at 2000 bar. The results were evaluated using the Mayo and chain length distribution (CLD) method, and the latter was found to give more reliable results. It was observed that the hydroxy group systematically increases transfer activity compared to alkanes. Additionally, a linear increase of transfer activity with the number of hydrogen atoms is found.
Phosphazene Tripeptide Conjugates: Design, Synthesis, In Vitro Cytotoxicity and Genotoxicity, Molecular Interactions in Binding Pockets on Human Breast and Colon Cancer Cell Lines
Authors: Çalışkan Eray , Yüksel Furkan , Çapan İrfan , Tekin Suat , Bouzidi Reda , Qaoud Mohammed T. , Biryan Fatih , Koran Kenan , Sandal Süleyman , Orhan Görgülü Ahmet
Published: October 2024

The biological activity of both cyclophosphazenes and peptides makes these compounds important for new studies in medicinal chemistry. For this purpose, five different phosphazene‐peptide conjugates synthesized from dichlorocyclotriphosphazene and tyrosine‐containing tripeptides. The synthesized compounds were evaluated for their in vitro cytotoxic activities against human breast (MCF‐7) and colon (Caco‐2) cancer cell lines using MTT assay. The derivatives induced cell death through DNA damage, with notable effects in Caco‐2 cell lines. Specifically, DTVV, DTVG, and DTVA were cytotoxic at 50 and 100 μM, while DTVP and DTVM were effective at 25, 50, and 100 μM. DTVM outperformed Tamoxifen at 50 μM in the MCF‐7 cell line. DNA damage studies of the compounds were performed using the comet assay method, evaluating tail length, tail density, olive tail moment, head length, and head density parameters. The findings indicated that cell death occurred via a DNA damage mechanism. The molecular intricacies of DTVA, DTVG, DTVM, DTVP and DTVV within the VEGFR2 kinase domain (3VHE) and Cyclophilin_CeCYP16‐Like Domain (2HQ6) binding pockets and various interactions, docking scores and potential activities of these derivatives were investigated. The differences in docking scores and interaction profiles highlight the potential efficacy and specificity of these compounds in targeting breast and colon cancer cells. These findings highlight the potential of phosphazene‐peptide derivatives as therapeutic agents in cancer treatment.
Enhancing the quality and impact of clinical trials in soft tissue sarcoma
Authors: Luen Stephen J. , Lewin Jeremy
Published: October 2024

Most systemic therapies in soft tissue sarcoma did not confer substantial clinical benefit as per the European Society for Medical Oncology Magnitude of Clinical Benefit Scale v1.1. Positive randomized trials in soft tissue sarcoma were commonly fragile according to the fragility index.
Effect of Electric Field on Carbon Encapsulation and Catalytic Activity of Pd for Efficient Formic Acid Decomposition
Authors: Guo Jiangnan , Hu Shuozhen , Zhang Xinsheng , Sun Shigang
Published: October 2024

Utilizing carbon coated ferroelectric materials to introduce polarization‐induced electric field (PIEF) stimulates research of electric field‐assisted catalysts for various reactions. However, effect of PIEF on carbon coating mechanism has not been studied. Herein, tourmaline nanoparticles (TNPs) with spontaneous dipole moments were applied as the PIEF supplier and sucrose was utilized as the carbon precursor to synthesize carbon coated TNPs (TNP@SC) to uncover the influence of PIEF on the carbon coating and catalytic activity of Pd toward formic acid decomposition (FAD). PIEF enhanced the adsorption capacity of TNPs for the caramelized intermediate species and increased H+ concentration by facilitating water ionization. Polymerization of adsorbed caramelized intermediate species on TNPs was accelerated. Uniformly coated carbon layer with more defects, larger specific surface area, and higher porosity was coated on TNP. Such surface properties of the carbon layer were beneficial for strongly anchoring ultrafine Pd nanoparticles. Owing to the specific properties of carbon layer and existence of PIEF, Pd/TNP@SC exhibited higher FAD activity than the catalysts absent of PIEF. Stronger PIEF leaded to higher initial turnover frequency. This study provides guidance to supply electric field for catalysis.
Effects of Adding Tricalcium Silicate Nanoparticles to the Universal G2 Bond Adhesive as Self‐Etch Mode on the Shear Bond Strength to the Orthodontic Bracket
Authors: Al‐Labban Yasir R. , Alrubayee Mehdi , Zaidi Syed Jaffar Abbas , Kazmi Shakeel
Published: October 2024

Objective

This study investigated the effects of adding tricalcium silicate nanoparticles (TCSNp) to the universal G2 bond adhesive (G2BU) in self‐etch (SE) mode on shear bond strength (SBS) to orthodontic brackets, cytotoxicity, and degree of conversion (DC).

Material and Methods

A total of 176 human teeth were divided into four groups based on TCSNp concentration in G2BU adhesive: 0% (control), 1%, 3%, and 5%. The G2BU adhesive consists of a hydrophilic primer (P) and a hydrophobic bonding agent (2B). TCSNp were added to the 2B component by mixing 0.1, 0.3, and 0.5 g of TCSNp with 9.9, 9.7, and 9.5 g of 2B, respectively. SBS was assessed after 24 h of water storage and 5000 thermocycles using a universal testing machine. Cytotoxicity was evaluated using the MTT assay on rat embryo fibroblast cells, and DC was measured using fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy. Statistical analysis included one‐way ANOVA and Tukey's post‐hoc test, with significance set at p < 0.05.

Results

After 24 h, mean SBS values were 15.58 MPa (control), 13.66 MPa (1% TCSNp), 15.99 MPa (3% TCSNp), and 12.04 MPa (5% TCSNp). After 5000 thermocycles, SBS values decreased to 12.91 MPa (control), 12.42 MPa (1% TCSNp), 11.11 MPa (3% TCSNp), and 10.21 MPa (5% TCSNp). ANOVA showed significant differences between groups (p < 0.05), except between the control and 3% TCSNp groups. Cell viability increased with higher TCSNp concentrations, with significant differences at 72 h between control and 5% TCSNp groups (p = 0.014). Mean DC values were 51.66% (control), 49.33% (1% TCSNp), 49.66% (3% TCSNp), and 48% (5% TCSNp). ANOVA indicated no significant differences between groups.

Conclusions

Adding TCSNp to G2BU in SE mode maintains clinically acceptable SBS levels and enhances cytocompatibility. Higher TCSNp concentrations may reduce SBS and DC slightly. Further studies are needed to evaluate long‐term effects.
Long‐term and landscape impacts of buffel grass on arid plant communities: Ecosystem shifts and acceleration by fire
Authors: Ryan‐Colton Ellen , French Kris , Wardle Glenda M. , Read John L. , Canty Peter D. , Lang Peter J. , Bickerton Doug C. , Schlesinger Christine A.
Published: October 2024

Plant invasions drive biodiversity loss, transform ecosystems, and promote positive‐feedback cycles between invasion and fire. However, the long‐term impacts of invasive grasses across landscapes with diverse plant communities and interactions with fire are poorly known. Our objectives were to examine whether buffel grass (Cenchrus ciliaris), a globally significant plant invader, altered the abundance of understory and overstory plants, homogenized plant composition, and shifted ecosystems from woodlands to grassland and to explore interrelationships between invasion and fire. We combined two methodological approaches to assess invasion spread and impacts of buffel grass in the Aṉangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara (APY) Lands of arid central Australia: a before‐after‐control‐impact (BACI) experiment over 25 years at 15 sites and a paired‐plot (randomized‐block) experiment at 18 sites. Both experiments spanned two geographic regions and multiple vegetation communities situated on flat plains and rocky hills. We used generalized linear mixed models to analyze predictions about plant abundance and permutational multivariate ANOVA (PERMANOVA) and permutational multivariate analysis of dispersion (PERMDISP) to examine changes in community composition. Fire and invasion interactions were explored using fire history or the relative fire tolerance of plant species as covariates, predictors, or responses. Fire interacted with the invasion process in multiple ways. Invaded sites had burnt more frequently and recently than native sites in one region, and where propagules were present in 1995, buffel grass abundance increased most when fires ensued. Abundance of understory plant functional groups (native grasses, ferns, and vines) decreased with invasion, and understory shrubs decreased due to frequent fires in invaded sites. Overstory composition shifted from fire‐sensitive species toward fire‐tolerant species, but this was not directly attributable to invasion. Partial evidence for ecosystem regime shifts included homogenization of understory communities in invaded rocky hills, and an increase in woody shrub cover at native but not invaded sites over 25 years, resulting in a 5% cover difference by 2019. Impacts were detected across heterogeneous ecological communities at a scale not previously tested amongst high background community variability. Although invasion is not dependent on fire, the acceleration of invasion spread and impacts with fire is a critical consideration for future research and management of grass invaders.
Soil climate underpins year effects driving divergent outcomes in semi‐arid cropland‐to‐grassland restoration
Authors: Mahood Adam L. , Barnard David M. , Macdonald Jacob A. , Green Timothy R. , Erskine Robert H.
Published: October 2024

Converting croplands to grasslands can restore ecosystem functions and services, but there is uncertainty about why some restoration treatments succeed and others do not. One likely explanation for variation in restoration outcomes is that interannual variation in the drivers of community assembly, or “year effects,” is often overlooked in restoration planning. Existing restoration strategies tailor species compositions of seed mixes according to long‐term climate means and hardiness zones. However, individual years typically deviate from average climate norms such that restoration activities may be better informed by recent conditions than by climate averages. We monitored a 109‐ha field in northeastern Colorado that was converted from a winter wheat‐fallow rotation to native perennial grassland via seeding. The same seed mix was used to seed 6 of 12,120‐m strips in 2013 (drier) and 6 in 2014 (wetter). In the strips seeded in 2013, only one native grass and one shrub species from the seed mix established widely, whereas in 2014, all native grasses established. Higher soil moisture preceding seed application was positively associated with perennial grasses, while rhizomatous grasses, shrubs, and introduced annuals were associated with other variables. After seeding, high summer soil moisture was positively associated with a rhizomatous C3 grass, while the planted C4 bunchgrasses were negatively associated with high summer soil moisture and positively associated with high fall soil temperatures. We found evidence of facilitatory interactions between grasses and forbs, as well as antagonistic interactions between native perennial grasses and non‐native annuals. Our results suggest that the conditions immediately before and after planting govern community assembly and leave a lasting legacy and should be considered in planning treatments. We suggest composing seed mixes that are tailored to commonly encountered extremes of temperature and moisture availability. Land managers can also use split‐seeding or repeated seeding approaches, within or between years as bet‐hedging strategies. The development of more flexible funding mechanisms could allow for regional go/no‐go climate thresholds to avoid wasting resources.
Recent Advances in Desiccant Materials for Energy‐Efficient and Sustainable Heat Transfer Systems
Authors: Senthilkumar Sriharini , Sundarrajan Subramanian , Ramasubramanian Brindha , Babji Shyam Sundar Akshara , Ramakrishna Seeram
Published: October 2024

The expanding prevalence of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, currently reliant on fossil fuel‐derived energy, necessitates energy‐saving measures to address climate change concerns. Implementing desiccants with high water vapor affinity reduces latent heat input, impacting the heat exchanger's functionality based on system and desiccant characteristics. This review analyzes the materials in solid desiccants, binders, and substrates, emphasizing advancements for enhanced heat transfer efficiency. Some notable materials explored include metal–organic frameworks, activated carbon, silica gel, polymers, and zeolite. In system level, the article discusses about the dual‐channel heat exchanger which emerges as a solution to drawbacks in existing dehumidification systems, offering higher performance and lower latent heat load in modern solid desiccant‐coated heat exchangers. Despite the environmental impact of material usage, future research should focus on sustainable materials, such as those derived from biomass or recycled sources, to maintain efficiency while minimizing waste in HVAC systems.
CEO Age and Capital Structure Dynamics: The Moderating Effect of Overconfidence and Tenure
Authors: Ezeani Ernest , Bilal Bilal , Samuel Fulgence
Published: October 2024

The Upper Echelons theory suggests that managerial characteristics will likely influence their financial decisions. Consistent with this theory, we examine CEO age's impact on Chinese firms' capital structure dynamics. We also investigate the moderating effects of overconfidence and tenure on the relationship between CEO age and capital structure. Using 18,235 firm‐year observations from Chinese listed firms, we document a positive relationship between CEO age and leverage. The results show that the CEOs' age‐overconfidence and age‐tenure relationship have an inverse relationship with leverage. Particularly, we find that CEO overconfidence and tenure impact market leverage more than book leverage. Our sensitivity analysis indicates that young CEOs use less debt, consistent with the market‐leaning hypothesis. We also find a positive relationship between CEO age and leverage in state‐owned enterprises. Our results are robust for decomposition analysis, selection bias test and endogeneity.
Exposure–Response Analysis of Tofacitinib in Active Psoriatic Arthritis: Results from Two Phase 3 Studies
Authors: Menon Sujatha , Shoji Satoshi , Tsuchiwata Shinichi , Fallon Lara , Kanik Keith
Published: October 2024

Tofacitinib is an oral Janus kinase inhibitor for the treatment of psoriatic arthritis (PsA). These post hoc exposure–response (E–R) analyses of pooled data from two Phase 3 studies (NCT01877668 and NCT01882439) characterized the relationships between tofacitinib exposure and efficacy (American College of Rheumatology [ACR] criteria), and changes in hemoglobin (Hgb) in patients with PsA. Efficacy data for the proportion of patients receiving tofacitinib 5 or 10 mg twice daily, or placebo, achieving ACR ≥20%, ≥50%, or ≥70% response criteria (ACR20, ACR50, and ACR70, respectively) at Month 3, were modeled jointly using a four‐category ordered categorical exposure–response model (ACR20 non‐responder, ACR20 responder but not ACR50 responder, ACR50 responder but not ACR70 responder, and ACR70 responder). A maximum drug effect (Emax) model (using average concentrations of tofacitinib at steady state [Cavg]) adequately described the exposure–ACR response rate relationship. Model‐predicted response rates for tofacitinib 5 and 10 mg twice daily were 51% and 58%, respectively, for ACR20; 29% and 36% for ACR50; and 15% and 20% for ACR70. The E–R relationship between tofacitinib exposure and changes in Hgb was assessed using an indirect response model, which generally predicted Hgb concentration–time profiles across treatments well. The proportions of patients experiencing a decrease in Hgb of >2 g/dL were similar with tofacitinib 5 mg twice daily or placebo. These results were generally consistent with previous analyses in rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis, and support the use of tofacitinib 5 mg twice daily for active PsA.
An Assay on the Antibactericidal Functionality of Synthesized Mg‐Doped ZnO Nanoparticles on the Dental Microbes
Authors: Alhomaidi Eman A. , Saleh Ibrahim A. , Zomot Naser , Al‐Hawadi Jehad S. , Kha Mansour
Published: October 2024

We succeeded in producing pure and magnesium‐doped zinc oxide nanoparticles (Mg‐Zn NPs) by making use of a Prosopis farcta leaf extract and subsequently distinguished the quality of our NPs with the use of field energy scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), energy‐dispersive X‐ray (EDX), powder X‐ray diffraction (PXRD), and UV–vis. In correlation to our observations, the particulates were spherically produced at a size of 20 nm with the ability to cause antimicrobial impacts on Streptococcus mutans bacteria and Candida albicans fungi. Inhibition zones of 18 ± 0.3 and 24 ± 0.3 mm were obtained for 5% Mg‐Zn NPs against bacteria and fungi, respectively. Based on these results, our work suggests a practicable proposition for our synthesized product to be considered as a worthy alternative for dental and oral utilizations.
A survey to analyze the need of genetic counseling among doctors in Lahore, Pakistan
Authors: Shaikh Afsah Asif , Imran Maryam , Azhar Aqsa , Hassan Syeda Laraib , Majeed Tanveer , Shah Tawaf Ali , Bin Jardan Yousef A. , Zulfiqar Ayesha , Azhar Muhammad Usama , Zulfiqar Shumaila
Published: October 2024

Pakistan with a population of approximately 200 million people faces a significant burden of genetic disorders. Higher preference for consanguinity (73%) is one of the significant reasons. Despite being a hub for rare genetic disorders, the country lacks professionally trained genetic counselors due to the absence of postgraduate degree programs or diplomas in genetic counseling. This shortage of specialized personnel results in inadequate and limited genetic counseling practices nationwide. This study aimed to highlight the urgent need for genetic counseling in Pakistan, focusing on the gaps within both society and the healthcare infrastructure. A survey‐based study involving n = 101 participants was conducted to assess the demand for genetic counseling among medical professionals in Lahore, Pakistan. The study targeted five categories of medical specialists—gynecologists, oncologists, psychiatrists, pediatricians, and ultrasonologists—working in both private and public healthcare settings in Lahore. The survey included a questionnaire covering demographic information, 10 general questions, and a case study with follow‐up questions. The survey was conducted both online and through in‐person visits. Our findings reveal a significant lack of awareness among healthcare providers, with 91.1% of respondents unaware of any genetic counseling services or genetic counselors in Lahore. The research underscores the crucial role of genetic counselors, with the vast majority (99%) of specialists expressing an urgent need for their presence in Pakistan's healthcare system. This study highlights that only qualified genetic counselors can effectively address genetic issues. Furthermore, it advocates for the introduction of specialized professional training programs to address this pressing need in the country.
Variability in treatment of postoperative pain in children with severe neurologic impairment
Authors: Keys Jordan , Markham Jessica L. , Hall Matthew , Goodwin Emily J. , Linebarger Jennifer , Bettenhausen Jessica L.
Published: October 2024

Background and Objective

Treatment of postoperative pain for children with severe neurologic impairment (SNI) is challenging. We describe the type, number of classes, and duration of postoperative pain medications for procedures common among children with SNI, as well as the variability across children's hospitals in pain management with an emphasis on opioid prescribing.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study included children with SNI ages 0–21 years old who underwent common procedures between January 1, 2019 and December 31, 2019 within 49 children's hospitals in the Pediatric Health Information System. We defined SNI using previously described high‐intensity neurologic impairment diagnosis codes and identified six common procedures which included fracture treatment, tracheostomy, spinal fusion, ventriculoperitoneal shunt placement (VP shunt), colostomy, or heart valve repair. Medication classes included benzodiazepines, opioids, and other nonopioid pain medications. Acetaminophen and nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs were excluded from analysis. All findings were summarized using bivariate statistics.

Results

A total of 7184 children with SNI underwent a procedure of interest. The median number of classes of pain medications administered varied by procedure (e.g., VP shunt: 0 (interquartile range [IQR] 0–1); tracheostomy: 3 (IQR 2–4)). Across all procedures, opioids and benzodiazepines were the most commonly prescribed pain medications (48.8% and 38.7%, respectively). We observed significant variability in the percentage of postoperative days with opioids across hospitals by procedure (all p < .001).

Conclusion

There is substantial variability in the postoperative delivery of pain medications for children with SNI. A standardized approach may decrease the variability in postoperative pain control and enhance care for children with SNI.
Supply Chain Financing and Total Factor Productivity: Evidence From Listed Manufacturing Companies in China
Authors: Yang Linjing , Yuan Hao
Published: October 2024

This study utilizes data related to the manufacturing stock market to explore the impact of supply chain finance on total factor productivity and its related mechanisms, with a view to providing reference for the healthy operation of enterprises and economic growth. Empirical results show that supply chain finance can effectively improve the total factor productivity of manufacturing enterprises and enhance their innovation capabilities and risk tolerance. At the same time, the level of information disclosure and the ‘Big Four’ audits have a significant moderating effect on the relationship between supply chain finance and total factor productivity.
Malnutrition‐related cardiomyopathy in a pediatric patient with autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Speakman Alexandria , Kaul Ajay , Chin Clifford , Xanthakos Stavra , Mouzaki Marialena
Published: October 2024

We present a case of a 5‐year‐old male patient with history of autism spectrum disorder and chronic malnutrition secondary to an extremely restrictive diet who presented with life‐threatening anemia and heart failure secondary to malnutrition‐related cardiomyopathy. This case highlights the importance of recognizing nutritional deficiencies in high‐risk individuals and screening for nutritional deficiencies in at‐risk children. Furthermore, it underscores the need for early recognition and intervention as malnutrition‐related cardiomyopathy can have significant morbidity.
Effect of glyceryl monopalmitate on the gelatinization, rheological and retrogradation properties of Japonica rice starch
Authors: Yang Yuexi , Liu Guoqiang , Xu Hongmei , Zhang Zihao , Tao Min , Gu Zhenyu
Published: October 2024

BACKGROUND

Starch‐based food is easy to retrograde during cold storage after gelatinization, which leads to quality fission and a relatively short shelf life. Some lipids can effectively enhance the storage stability of starch gels by the formation of starch–lipid complexes. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of glyceryl monopalmitate (GMP) on gelatinization, rheological and retrogradation properties of Japonica rice starch (JS) at different conditions and to analyze the correlation between the physical‐chemical properties and structural characteristics of the JS–GMP complex.

RESULTS

The addition of GMP to JS could retard the process of starch gelatinization through forming JS–GMP complexes. The resulting JS–GMP pastes were typical pseudoplastic fluids with shear thinning, and their solid‐like properties were prominent (tan δ < 1). In addition, the retrogradation of JS–GMP complex was more inhibited during storage at −18 than at 4 °C. The added amount of GMP was negatively and highly associated with the minimum viscosity, consistency coefficient, hardness and elasticity, whereas it was positively and highly correlated with the breakdown value, fluid characteristic index and relative crystallinity. The relative crystallinity of JS was affected by GMP in an approximate dose‐dependent manner.

CONCLUSION

The addition of GMP can influence the gelatinization properties, rheological properties and retrogradation characteristics of JS, and the formation of JS–GMP complex could improve the quality and storage stability of starch gel, which provides ideas for the quality control of starch‐based food. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Ultralong Room Temperature Phosphorescence Emission From Gels Induced by Multiple Confinement Effects
Authors: Bo Changchang , Li Tingting , Jia Qinglong , Xu Wensheng , Chen Ligong , Li Yang , Yan Xilong , Wang Bowei
Published: October 2024

The construction of ultra‐long room temperature phosphorescence (RTP) gels has always been a serious challenge because the dispersing medium would significantly deteriorate their rigidity, resulting in triplet excitons consumption by non‐radiative transitions. In this paper, eutectogel with ultra‐long RTP emission is successfully constructed by rebuilding the damaged rigid system with solvent exchange. Specifically, the formation of cyclic borate via the B─O click reaction between 1,3,5‐tris(4‐phenylboronic acid)benzene (TPPB) and poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) matrix is demonstrated to be favorable for RTP emission, with the resulting films possessing an afterglow duration of 26 s and a lifetime of up to 2.92 s. Based on this, deep eutectic solvents (DES)‐based RTP gel is successfully prepared by cyclic freezing‐thawing and solvent exchange of aqueous solution of TPPB functionalized PVA obtained by click reaction. The obtained gel exhibited an afterglow of up to 8 s and RTP lifetime of 902 ms under ambient conditions. Further analyses showed that the introduction of DES reconstructed interactions between polymer chains damaged by water and enhanced the rigidity of the system, thus promoting RTP emission.
Focusing Through Scattering Media Via 1D Speckle Signal Feedback
Authors: An Shanxuan , Zhao Wenjing , Zhai Aiping , Zhang Genwei , Wang Dong
Published: October 2024

Light propagation in complex media results in strong scattering. While wavefront shaping (WFS) enables the focusing of light at depth, its speed is mainly limited by the frame rate of the area‐array detectors. The photodetector has been used to achieve fast focusing, but it cannot record sufficient speckle information, limiting its applications in multi‐point focusing and non‐invasive focusing. Here, a method for invasively or non‐invasively focusing through scattering media is proposed by using 1D speckle signals as feedback for wavefront shaping. Experimentally, not only invasive multi‐point focusing can be realized, but also by maximizing the contrast of linear fluorescent 1D speckle signals, non‐invasive focusing can be achieved, suggesting the effectiveness of the proposed method. This approach can be generalized to the utilization of linear array detectors in WFS and may hold interesting prospects for rapid focusing light within deep biological tissues.
Encapsulated Void Resonators in Van der Waals Heterostructures
Authors: Sarbajna Avishek , Danielsen Dorte Rubæk , Casses Laura Nevenka , Stenger Nicolas , Bøggild Peter , Raza Søren
Published: October 2024

Confining light in nanoscale air voids can enable new photonic applications by eliminating the requirement of low loss in traditional dielectric resonators. Van der Waals materials are uniquely suited for this purpose as they offer a tailored assembly of different materials and the ability to fully enclose air voids through transfer techniques. Here, highly lossy van der Waals materials are leveraged to demonstrate optical resonances that confine light in encapsulated air voids. Void resonances are theoretically designed in the visible spectrum and resonant modes supported by void arrays are identified. Experimentally, void arrays are fabricated in tungsten diselenide and the confined resonances are characterized using far‐field reflectance measurements and scanning near‐field optical microscopy. Using van der Waals heterostructure assembly, the voids are encapsulated with hexagonal boron nitride and tungsten diselenide, which substantially reduces the void volume causing a large spectral blue shift of the void resonance exceeding 150 nm. The work demonstrates a versatile optical platform for lossy materials, opening a new regime of material space for photonic devices.
Point‐of‐care breath sample analysis by semiconductor‐based E‐Nose technology discriminates non‐infected subjects from SARS‐CoV‐2 pneumonia patients: a multi‐analyst experiment
Authors: Woehrle Tobias , Pfeiffer Florian , Mandl Maximilian M. , Sobtzick Wolfgang , Heitzer Jörg , Krstova Alisa , Kamm Luzie , Feuerecker Matthias , Moser Dominique , Klein Matthias , Aulinger Benedikt , Dolch Michael , Boulesteix Anne‐Laure , Lanz Daniel , Choukér Alexander
Published: October 2024

Metal oxide sensor‐based electronic nose (E‐Nose) technology provides an easy to use method for breath analysis by detection of volatile organic compound (VOC)‐induced changes of electrical conductivity. Resulting signal patterns are then analyzed by machine learning (ML) algorithms. This study aimed to establish breath analysis by E‐Nose technology as a diagnostic tool for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus type 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) pneumonia within a multi‐analyst experiment. Breath samples of 126 subjects with (n = 63) or without SARS‐CoV‐2 pneumonia (n = 63) were collected using the ReCIVA® Breath Sampler, enriched and stored on Tenax sorption tubes, and analyzed using an E‐Nose unit with 10 sensors. ML approaches were applied by three independent data analyst teams and included a wide range of classifiers, hyperparameters, training modes, and subsets of training data. Within the multi‐analyst experiment, all teams successfully classified individuals as infected or uninfected with an averaged area under the curve (AUC) larger than 90% and misclassification error lower than 19%, and identified the same sensor as most relevant to classification success. This new method using VOC enrichment and E‐Nose analysis combined with ML can yield results similar to polymerase chain reaction (PCR) detection and superior to point‐of‐care (POC) antigen testing. Reducing the sensor set to the most relevant sensor may prove interesting for developing targeted POC testing.
Partial reduction of interleukin‐33 signaling improves senescence and renal injury in diabetic nephropathy
Authors: Chen Li , Gao Chao , Yin Xingzhu , Mo Li , Cheng Xueer , Chen Huimin , Jiang Chunjie , Wu Bangfu , Zhao Ying , Li Hongxia , Li Yanyan , Li Jiansha , Chen Liangkai , Deng Qianchun , Yao Ping , Tang Yuhan
Published: October 2024

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a frequent and costly complication of diabetes with limited understandings of mechanisms and therapies. Emerging evidence points to the important roles of interleukin‐33 (IL‐33) in acute kidney injury, yet its contribution to DN is still unclear. We here found a ubiquitous increase of IL‐33 and its receptor (ST2) in murine models and patients with DN. Surprisingly, both IL‐33 and ST2 knockdown aggravated renal lesions in DN, while overexpression of IL‐33 also exacerbated the condition. Further population‐based analyses revealed a positive correlation of IL‐33 expression with renal dysfunction in DN patients. Individuals with high IL‐33 expression‐related polygenic risk score had a higher DN risk. These findings confirmed the harmful effects of IL‐33 on DN. Conversely, endogenous and exogenous partial reduction of IL‐33 signaling conferred renoprotective effects in vivo and in vitro. Mechanistically, IL‐33 induced senescence by regulating cell cycle factors in HK‐2 cells, and accordingly senescence led to renal cell damage through the secretion of senescence‐related secretory phenotype (SASP) including IL‐33 and prostaglandins. Together, elevated IL‐33 accelerates cellular senescence to drive DN possibly by SASP production, while a partial blockage improves renal injury and senescence. Our findings pinpoint a possible and new avenue for DN interventions.
Metabolic regulation of intestinal homeostasis: molecular and cellular mechanisms and diseases
Authors: Zhang Ruolan , Perekatt Ansu , Chen Lei
Published: October 2024

Metabolism serves not only as the organism's energy source but also yields metabolites crucial for maintaining tissue homeostasis and overall health. Intestinal stem cells (ISCs) maintain intestinal homeostasis through continuous self‐renewal and differentiation divisions. The intricate relationship between metabolic pathways and intestinal homeostasis underscores their crucial interplay. Metabolic pathways have been shown to directly regulate ISC self‐renewal and influence ISC fate decisions under homeostatic conditions, but the cellular and molecular mechanisms remain incompletely understood. Understanding the intricate involvement of various pathways in maintaining intestinal homeostasis holds promise for devising innovative strategies to address intestinal diseases. Here, we provide a comprehensive review of recent advances in the regulation of intestinal homeostasis. We describe the regulation of intestinal homeostasis from multiple perspectives, including the regulation of intestinal epithelial cells, the regulation of the tissue microenvironment, and the key role of nutrient metabolism. We highlight the regulation of intestinal homeostasis and ISC by nutrient metabolism. This review provides a multifaceted perspective on how intestinal homeostasis is regulated and provides ideas for intestinal diseases and repair of intestinal damage.
An Efficient and Robust Weak Galerkin Scheme for Solving the 2D/3D H(curl;Ω)‐Elliptic Interface Problems With High‐Order Elements
Authors: Dutta Mohapatra Achyuta Ranjan , Kumar Raman , Deka Bhupen
Published: October 2024

In this paper, we present a high‐order weak Galerkin finite element method (WG‐FEM) for solving the H(curl;)‐elliptic problems with interfaces in . As applied to curl–curl problems, the weak Galerkin method uses two operators: weak curl and discrete weak curl projected in a polynomial space of degree . Necessary stabilizations are enforced to ensure weak tangential continuity of approximation functions. Optimal convergence rates of order under ‐norm and order in a discrete ‐like norm are established on hybrid meshes. Numerical experiments verify the expected order of accuracy for both two‐dimensional and three‐dimensional examples. At the same time, this method is able to accommodate geometrically complicated interfaces and has low regularity requirements.
Social and ecological dimensions are needed to understand human‐wildlife conflict in subsistence farming context
Authors: Yeshey  , Keenan Rodney J. , Ford Rebecca M. , Nitschke Craig R.
Published: October 2024

This study explores the social, economic and environmental dimensions of human‐wildlife conflict (HWC) in four districts of Bhutan. Looking beyond the common unidimensional approach to the evaluation of HWCs, it documents the multifaceted nature of HWCs through a social‐ecological system (SES) lens.

We carried out a mixed method analysis of HWC based on 96 interviews consisting of qualitative and quantitative data and eight focus group discussions conducted in four districts representing four regions of Bhutan.

Our case study finding reveals that HWC scenarios are complex and there is spatial variation in both social and ecological factors that contribute to HWC. In some areas, ecological aspects such as the composition and behaviour of wildlife species exacerbate the conflict, while in other regions the co‐occurrence of wildlife and livestock in the same ‘wild’ landscape drives HWC.

The socio‐economic dimensions of HWC are largely driven by attitudes, tolerance, and behaviour of individuals underpinned by multiple factors. We propose that the SES approach improves our understanding of key social, economic and ecological factors, their interactions, and the feedback that either exacerbates or ameliorates HWC in contested landscapes.

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Mini Review: Challenges and Promising Advances in Hydrogel‐Based Scaffolds for Breast Tissue Regeneration
Authors: Muniz Jéssica de Lima Dias Boaventura , da Silva Rocha Anne Caroline , de Menezes Lívia Rodrigues
Published: October 2024

The loss of breast tissue is a problem that plagues many women. Total mastectomy procedures after breast cancer or extensive tissue loss by accident generate permanent aesthetic‐functional lesions that are correlated with the loss of breastfeeding capacity, loss of self‐esteem, anxiety, depression, reduced sexual attraction, hopelessness, and often, suicide. Although current clinical practices try to restore aesthetics, functional improvements are not readily resolved by these maneuvers. Those who undergo such procedures often end up with permanent aesthetic and functional injuries. The difficulty in regenerating breast tissue stems from its high structural complexity. In cases of extensive loss of breast tissue, the use of regeneration strategies becomes necessary for proper healing and tissue reconstruction. In this context, the use of regeneration scaffolds may open new possibilities for the regeneration of various body tissues, especially breast tissue, enabling the adequate healing of large injuries in different tissues. Hydrogels are examples of highly versatile materials for this application, given the range of methodologies for their preparation and composition components. The results of various studies indicate that the application of hydrogel‐based scaffolds for breast regeneration is highly promising. Among the materials and systems most applied for this purpose, biodegradable polymers stand out due to their high biocompatibility and the ability for spontaneous removal from the organism. In this sector, systems obtained through 3D printing also stand out due to the increased predictability of geometry and pore distribution. However, it is noteworthy that the evaluated regeneration systems are primarily focused on regenerating adipose tissue, with no specific systems for the epithelial regeneration of the breasts or the areas of glandular tissue. These areas represent sectors that still need further exploration.
Validation Study of the Claims‐Based Algorithm Using the International Classification of Diseases Codes to Identify Patients With Coronavirus Disease in Japan From 2020 to 2022: The VENUS Study
Authors: Chikamochi Taku , Ishiguro Chieko , Mimura Wataru , Maeda Megumi , Murata Fumiko , Fukuda Haruhisa
Published: October 2024

Purpose

We validated claims‐based algorithms using the International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision (ICD‐10) to identify patients with the first‐ever coronavirus disease (COVID‐19) onset between May 2020 and August 2022.

Methods

The study cohort was comprised of residents of one municipality enrolled in a public insurance program. This study used data provided by the municipality, including residents' insurer‐based medical claims data linked to the Health Center Real‐time Information‐Sharing System (HER‐SYS). The HER‐SYS data included positive results from COVID‐19 tests and were used as reference standards. Claims‐based algorithms #1 and #2 were U07.1, B34.2, with and without suspicious diagnoses, respectively. Claims‐based algorithms #3 and #4 were U07.1 with and without suspicious diagnoses, respectively. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) were calculated for each algorithm.

Results

The study cohort included 165 038 residents, including 13 402 residents were the reference standard. For the entire period, the sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV were 55.7% (95% confidence interval: 54.8%–56.5%), 65.4% (65.2%–65.6%), 11.5% (11.3%–11.8%), and 98.9% (98.8%–99.0%) for Algorithm #1, and 67.0% (66.2%–67.8%), 88.1% (87.9%–88.3%), 31.6% (31.1%–32.2%), and 97.8% (97.7%–97.8%) for Algorithm #2, and 52.9% (52.0%–53.7%), 67.1% (66.9%–67.3%), 11.5% (11.2%–11.8%), and 98.3% (98.3%–98.4%) for Algorithm #3, 62.6% (61.8%–63.4%), 88.5% (88.3%–88.7%), 30.9% (30.3%–31.4%), and 97.3% (97.2%–97.4%) for Algorithm #4, respectively.

Conclusions

Our study showed that the validity of claims‐based algorithms consisting of COVID‐19‐related ICD‐10 codes to identify patients with first‐onset COVID‐19 is limited.
An effective non‐restarting control chart based on the joint judgment
Authors: Mou Zhengcheng , Chiang Jyun‐You , Tsai Tzong‐Ru , Chen Sihong
Published: October 2024

The cumulative sum (CUSUM) and exponentially weighted moving average (EWMA) control charts have been widely used in industry and public health applications. Still, few researchers have paid attention to the practical problem in public health applications, in which the control chart statistic cannot be reset to zero after an out‐of‐control (OC) signal. Some studies have addressed this issue by adding an upper limit to the statistic or using adaptive hypothesis testing (AHT). However, the control chart with an upper limit added to the testing statistic leads to a loss of information, and the post‐outbreak false alarm rate is still higher than the restarting control chart. The AHT control charts could not quickly alarm for the pandemic outbreak alarm as expected. To improve these drawbacks of control chart monitoring, two phase‐II non‐restarting (NR) CUSUM–EWMA control charts with the AHT framework, named NR–CUSUM–EWMA and AHUTNR–CUSUM–EWMA control charts, are proposed to well alarm for the pandemic outbreak. The AHTUNR–CUSUM–EWMA control chart uses the joint judgment of the UNR–CUSUM–EWMA (uncorrected NR–CUMSUM–EWMA) and NR–CUSUM–EWMA control charts, and the run rule to enhance the efficiency of the pandemic outbreak alarm. Simulation results show that the proposed NR–CUSUM–EWMA and AHUTNR–CUSUM–EWMA control charts can well maintain the outbreak alarm rate and post‐outbreak false alarm rate without losing cumulative information. Finally, the applicability and effectiveness of the proposed method are illustrated by an application to measles surveillance in North Rhine‐Westphalia, Germany.
Exploring the United Nations Global Compact adoption in a multi‐level perspective
Authors: Pinheiro Alan Bandeira , do Prado Nágela Bianca , de Moraes Gustavo Hermínio Salati Marcondes , Hourneaux Junior Flávio
Published: October 2024

From a multi‐level perspective, we aimed to identify the drivers of United Nations Global Compact (UNGC) adoption. On a micro‐level, the Resource‐Based View theory allowed us to discuss how the firm's internal environment influences its adoption. At the macro‐level, we focused on the Varieties of Capitalism approach. Hence, the meso‐level mediated the interaction between the other two levels, in which the Upper Echelons Theory could predict how some board characteristics influence UNGC adoption. Data from 1773 companies headquartered in countries with coordinated and liberal economies were analyzed by multivariate analysis. The empirical results presented evidence that company size, the size of the board of directors, and the type of capitalism that the country follows positively affect UNGC adoption. In conclusion, three characteristics matter for UNGC adoption. Larger boards tend to influence the adoption of the UNGC, showing that a greater diversity of board members' backgrounds can bring results regarding social and environmental issues.
Suppressing Se Vacancies in Sb2Se3 Photocathode by In Situ Annealing with Moderate Se Vapor Pressure for Efficient Photoelectrochemical Water Splitting
Authors: Peng Kunyuan , Wu Zekai , Liu Xinsheng , Yang Jianjun , Guan Zhongjie
Published: October 2024

Sb2Se3 emerges as a promising material for solar energy conversion devices. Unfortunately, the common deep‐level defect VSe (selenium vacancy) in Sb2Se3 results in a low solar conversion efficiency. The post selenization process has been widely adopted for suppressing VSe. However, the effect of selenization on suppressing VSe is often compromised and even more VSe are induced due to defect‐correlation. Herein, high‐quality Sb2Se3 films are prepared using an unconventional selenization process, with precisely regulating in situ annealing Se vapor pressure. It is found that moderate Se vapor pressure annealing can efficiently suppress VSe by overcoming defect‐correlation, as well as promotes grain growth and forms a better heterojunction band alignment. Consequently, the Sb2Se3 photocathode shows a high‐level photocurrent of 19.5 mA cm−2 at 0 VRHE, an onset potential of 0.40 VRHE and a half‐cell solar‐to‐hydrogen conversion efficiency of 1.9%, owing to the inhibited charge recombination, excellent charge transport and interface charge extraction. This work provides a significant insight to suppress deep‐level defect VSe by adjusting Se vapor pressure for efficient Sb2Se3 photocathode.