bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antimycotic effects of the plasma gun on the yeast Candida glabrata tested on various surfaces
Authors: Trebulová Kristína , Orel Inna , Pouvesle Jean‐Michel , Robert Eric , Rouillard Amaury , Stancampiano Augusto , Hrudka Jan , Menčík Přemysl , Kozáková Zdenka , Měšťánková Zuzana , Kužmová Darina , Paličková Ivana , Čížek Alois , Krčma František
Published: July 2024

This work focuses on the antimycotic effects of the plasma gun as a potential tool for the treatment of superficial infections. Candida glabrata was chosen as a model microorganism. The preliminary tests have been done on the agar plates to establish the basic plasma parameters. To render this research more appropriate to the real application, more complex inoculation substrates, pork skin and 3D‐printed models of the dog ear canal have been used. The results of this work confirm the high efficiency of cold plasma in the inhibition of yeasts on different surfaces and will lead to further experiments.
Dielectric barrier discharge plasma catalysis for diesel particulate matter oxidation: Optimization and synergistic differences in transition metal catalysts
Authors: Ren Baoyong , Wang Wei , Wu Zuliang , Li Jing , Gao Erhao , Zhu Jiali , Yao Shuiliang
Published: July 2024

Nonthermal plasma (NTP) enhanced catalytic oxidation of diesel particulate matter (DPM) is promising for applications. The synergistic effects of transition metal oxides (MOx, M = Mn, Cu, Ce, Fe, Co, Ti) and dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) plasma on DPM oxidation were investigated, and Fe2O3 showed the best synergistic effect. Cobalt‐doped iron oxide (Co–FeOx) displaying a spinel structure showed the best performance among M–FeOx (M = Co, Ce, Cu, Zn, Mn). The main intermediate product generated during the catalytic oxidation of DPM is monodentate carbonate. Under DBD plasma, a strong oxidizing intermediate ferrate (FeO42−) mainly produced at 100–200°C can promote the low‐temperature oxidation of DPM.
Time‐sharing synergy of NOx mode and O3 mode air discharges for efficient and pollution‐free disinfection
Authors: Wang Zifeng , Wang Luge , Zhang Pengfei , Liu Dingxin , Feng Yue , Yue Qiuyi , He Yujie , Xu Shenghang , Wang Xiangyu , Pei Dandan , Zhang Jishen , Guo Li , Rong Mingzhe
Published: July 2024

As an alternative disinfection technology, air plasma is limited to achieve wider application due to its restricted disinfection level and hazardous by‐products including O3 and NOx. In this work, a time‐sharing synergy strategy is proposed, where NO and NO2 are first generated by a dielectric barrier discharge reactor in NOx mode, and then the discharge is switched into O3 mode by increasing flowrate, thus producing large amounts of high‐valence NOx for efficient disinfection in sealed space. The disinfection effect of time‐sharing synergy is about 2 logs higher than using single O3 or NOx mode with the same discharge power. The concentration of high‐valence NOx is highly correlated with disinfection effect. Finally, all disinfection ingredients are removed after 2‐min gas‐washing and heating.
Effect of short‐term treatment of some cereal grains with atmospheric pressure Ar–O2 and Ar–air plasma
Authors: Martinovs Andris , Martinovs Andris , Rēvalde Gita , Dombrovska Diāna , Koļčs Guntis , Tretjakova Rasma , Zaicevs Edgars
Published: July 2024

A study of the grain surface structure and seedling development of wheat, barley, oats, and rye depending on short‐term treatment of their grains in Ar–O2 and Ar–air cold plasma and post‐discharge with a perspective of implementation of the method on an industrial scale is presented. Following parameters are monitored: chemical composition of plasma, grain surface roughness, germination rate, seed germination, length of seedlings, dry mass of stems and roots, as well as vigor index II. The results show that even an 8.7‐s‐long treatment of grains in postdischarge can improve the root system of seedlings, increasing its mass up to 16.2% (barley), 15.6% (rye), and 14.3% (wheat) within the first 10 days after sowing.
Vacuum‐ultraviolet‐photoionization chamber for the investigation of ion‐based surface treatment and thin film deposition at atmospheric pressure
Authors: Sgonina Kerstin , Schulze Christian , Quack Alexander , Benedikt Jan
Published: July 2024

The vacuum‐ultraviolet‐photoionization chamber was constructed to allow controlled ion generation and well‐defined surface treatment with these ions at atmospheric pressure. It utilizes atmospheric helium plasma as a photon source and separates the ion generation from the plasma by an aerodynamic window. The ions are guided to the grounded substrate by a weak electric field, while the diffusive transport of neutrals is reduced by a helium gas flow along the substrate. Ionic species and the absolute ion flux were determined in the substrate region. Ion‐based thin film deposition using a precursor was investigated as a model process. The proposed system enables future investigation of e.g. the isolated interaction of ions with biological substrates.
Plasma jet printing of silver patterns on flexible substrates: Conductive properties and control mechanism
Authors: Xue Jiaqing , Yu Deping , Zhao Yingxin , Yue Xufeng , Cai Jianing , Zhang Peng , Peng Keming
Published: July 2024

Plasma jet printing, which does not require preprocessing and postprocessing, is a promising technology for manufacturing flexible electronics. The conductive properties should be confirmed to ensure the performance of the flexible electronics. In this study, the conductive properties and control mechanism of plasma jet‐printed silver patterns were investigated. Analyses show that high‐energy particles in the plasma decomposed organic solvents and induced the interconnection between silver nanoparticles. The plasma jet‐printed silver patterns had high uniformity in vertical spatial distribution. The dense packing of the silver patterns was achieved by increasing the number of printed layers, reducing the print speed, and increasing the focusing ratio. Oxidation of the silver nanoparticles was reduced and the conductivity was improved by increasing the focusing ratio.
Role of body mass index in unbalanced (dysanaptic) lung growth of healthy infants
Authors: Sanchez‐Solis Manuel , Forno Erick , Morales Eva , Garcia‐Marcos Luis ,   The NELA Study Group
Published: July 2024

Rationale

Imbalance between forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1) and forced vital capacity (FVC) (dysanapsis) has been reported in children who are obese. This dysanaptic growth might begin at an early age, although there are no data on children younger than 6 years.

Objetives

To assess whether body mass index (BMI) and early weight gain, in healthy infants born at term, plays a significant role in the imbalance between FEV1 and FVC, even in the absence of obesity.

Methods

Lung function was measured by means of raised volume rapid thoracic compression in 69 healthy infants born at term from the Nutrition in Early Life and Asthma cohort. Dysanapsis was defined as zFVC >0.674, zFEV0.5 ≥−1.645, and FEV0.5/FVC ≤−1.645. Weight gain (g/day) and growth rate (cm/year) were calculated as the difference between weight and length on the test date and those at birth. To assess the relationship between zBMI and dysanapsis, a receiver operating characteristic curve was performed. Multivariable analysis was carried out by means of linear regressions (one for each lung function index) and by logistic regression for dysanapsis (yes/no).

Results

Higher zBMI was associated with risk of dysanapsis (odds ratio: 3.53, [95% confidence interval: 1.30; 9.66]; p = .014): Each additional zBMI unit was associated with ~10 mL higher FVC and with ~3.5% lower FEV0.5/FVC. Weight gain was associated with lower FEV0.5/FVC ratio.

Conclusion

Dysanaptic development of lung function begins very early in infancy and is related with weight gain and body mass index, even in the absence of obesity.
Front Cover Image
Authors: Wang Duo , Zhang Xiaojing , Li Hongxia , Wang Ting , Ma Xiaojin , Yu Zhijun , Wang Fang , Zhang Yankai , Liu Jingze
Published: July 2024

The cover image is based on the Research Article Iron regulatory protein from the hard tick Haemaphysalis longicornis: characterization, function and assessment as a protective antigen by Duo Wang et al., https://doi.org/10.1002/ps.8095.

image
Back Cover Image
Authors: Yu Hongxiao , Li Yunqi , Wang Hong , Zhang Lei , Suo Penghui , Su Tianyun , Han Qian
Published: July 2024

The cover image is based on the Research Article Preparation of a long-lasting tablet of spinosad microspheres and its residual insecticidal efficacy against the yellow fever mosquito, Aedes aegypti (Diptera: Culicidae) larvae by Hongxiao Yu et al., https://doi.org/10.1002/ps.8094.

image
Condition‐based maintenance management for two‐stage continuous deterioration with two‐dimensional inspection errors
Authors: Wang Jiantai , Ma Xiaobing , Gao Kaiye , Zhao Yu , Yang Li
Published: July 2024

Inspections often perform imperfect outcomes during maintenance processes owing to human errors, management issues and other limitations. In particular, such imperfection affects the maintenance management of multistage deterioration significantly due to both false state identification and measurement errors, whose quantitative analysis, however, is seldom reported in the literature. To fill these gaps, this paper devises a condition‐based maintenance management strategy oriented to two‐stage continuous degradation under two‐dimensional inspection imperfection. Specifically, a threshold‐based replacement is executed under the normal‐working state if the detected degradation value exceeds the preset limit; additionally, preventive replacement is immediately performed once the defective state is identified. Notably, the detection outcome rather than the actual working condition decides how preventive maintenance operates. The long‐run cost rate is minimized via the optimization of the inspection cycle and replacement limit. Besides, numerical experiments conducted on train bogie bearing are provided, showing substantial superiorities over cost‐effectiveness promotion and performance improvement.
Cell Membrane Engineered Polypeptide Nanonets Mimicking Macrophage Aggregates for Enhanced Antibacterial Treatment
Authors: Xiao Jiang , Song Zhongquan , Liu Tengfei , Guo Zengchao , Liu Xiaohui , Jiang Hui , Wang Xuemei
Published: July 2024

Drug‐resistant bacterial infections and their lipopolysaccharide‐related inflammatory complications continue to pose significant challenges in traditional treatments. Inspired by the rapid initiation of resident macrophages to form aggregates for efficient antibacterial action, this study proposes a multifunctional and enhanced antibacterial strategy through the construction of novel biomimetic cell membrane polypeptide nanonets (R‐DPB‐TA‐Ce). The design involves the fusion of end‐terminal lipidated polypeptides containing side‐chain cationic boronic acid groups (DNPLBA) with cell membrane intercalation engineering (R‐DPB), followed by coordination with the tannic acid‐cerium complex (TA‐Ce) to assemble into a biomimetic nanonet through boronic acid‐polyphenol‐metal ion interactions. In addition to the ability of RAW 264.7 macrophages cell membrane components' (R) ability to neutralize lipopolysaccharide (LPS), R‐DPB‐TA‐Ce demonstrated enhanced capture of bacteria and its LPS, leveraging nanoconfinement‐enhanced multiple interactions based on the boronic acid–polyphenol nanonets skeleton combined with polysaccharide. Utilizing these advantages, indocyanine green (ICG) is further employed as a model drug for delivery, showcasing the exceptional treatment effect of R‐DPB‐TA‐Ce as a new biomimetic assembled drug delivery system in antibacterial, anti‐inflammatory, and wound healing promotion. Thus, this strategy of mimicking macrophage aggregates is anticipated to be further applicable to various types of cell membrane engineering for enhanced antibacterial treatment.
Monoammonium Modified Dion‐Jacobson Quasi‐2D Perovskite for High Efficiency Pure‐Blue Light Emitting Diodes
Authors: Hu Jiazheng , Li Jing , Lu Guochao , Zhang Dingshuo , Cai Qiuting , Wang Xinyang , Fang Zhishan , Zhang Haoran , Long Zaishang , Pan Jun , Dai Xingliang , Ye Zhizhen , He Haiping
Published: July 2024

Quasi‐2D perovskites exhibit impressive optoelectronic properties and hold significant promise for future light‐emitting devices. However, the efficiency of perovskite light‐emitting diodes (PeLEDs) is seriously limited by defect‐induced nonradiative recombination and imbalanced charge injection. Here, the defect states are passivated and charge injection balance is effectively improved by introducing the additive cyclohexanemethylammonium (CHMA) to bromide‐based Dion‐Jacobson (D‐J) structure quasi‐2D perovskite emission layer. CHMA participates in the crystallization of perovskite, leading to high quality film composed of compact and well‐contacted grains with enhanced hole transportation and less defects. As a result, the corresponding PeLEDs exhibit stable pure blue emission at 466 nm with a maximum external quantum efficiency (EQE) of 9.22%. According to current knowledge, this represents the highest EQE reported for pure‐blue PeLEDs based on quasi‐2D bromide perovskite thin films. These findings underscore the potential of quasi‐2D perovskites for advanced light‐emitting devices and pave the way for further advancements in PeLEDs.
A Self‐Cascade Oxygen‐Generating Nanomedicine for Multimodal Tumor Therapy
Authors: Zhao Jingyuan , Sun Qi , Mo Dongze , Feng Jiayuan , Wang Yuting , Li Tong , Zhang Yihong , Wei Hui
Published: July 2024

Natural and artificial enzyme oxygen‐generating systems for photodynamic therapy (PDT) are developed for tumor treatment, yet they have fallen short of the desired efficacy. Moreover, both the enzymes and photosensitizers usually need carriers for efficient delivery to tumor sites. Here, a self‐cascade‐enhanced multimodal tumor therapy is developed by ingeniously integrating self‐cascade‐enhanced PDT with Zn2+‐overloading therapy. Manganese‐porphyrin (TCPP‐Mn) is chosen both as the photosensitizer and catalase (CAT) mimic, which can be encapsulated within glucose oxidase (GOx). Acid‐responsive zeolitic imidazolate framework‐8 (ZIF‐8) is applied as the carrier for TCPP‐Mn@GOx (T@G), attaining TCPP‐Mn@GOx@ZIF‐8 (T@G@Z). T@G@Z demonstrates robust anti‐tumor ability as follows: upon the structural degradation of ZIF‐8, GOx can mediate the oxidation of glucose and generate hydrogen peroxide (H2O2); TCPP‐Mn can catalyze H2O2 into O2 for self‐cascade‐enhanced PDT; meanwhile, the released Zn2+ can enhance oxidative stress and induce mitochondrial dysfunction by destroying mitochondrial membrane potential; furthermore, immunotherapy can be activated to resist primary tumor and tumor metastasis. The self‐cascade‐enhanced T@G@Z exhibited its potential application for further tumor management.
Drop to Gate Nasal Drops Attenuates Sepsis‐Induced Cognitive Dysfunction
Authors: Zhuang Yaping , Du Xiyu , Yang Li , Jiang Zhaoshun , Yu Buwei , Gu Weidong , Cui Wenguo , Lu Han
Published: July 2024

Nasal administration can bypass the blood‐brain barrier and directly deliver drugs to the brain, providing a non‐invasive route for central nervous system (CNS) diseases. Inspired by the appearance that a gate can block the outside world and the characteristics of the sol–gel transition can form a “gate” in the nasal cavity, a Drop to Gate nasal drop (DGND) is designed to set a gate in nose, which achieves protecting role from the influence of nasal environment. The DGND demonstrates the efficiency and application prospect of delivering drugs to the brain through the N‐to‐B. The effective concentration of single administration is increased through the hydrophobic interaction between C8‐GelMA and SRT1720 (SA), and then cross‐linked under UV to form nanogel, which can respond to MMP in the inflammatory microenvironment of sepsis‐induced cognitive dysfunction. Finally, the SA/nanogel is compounded into the thermogel, which can respond to the nasal cavity temperature to form DGND in situ, increasing the residence time and delivery efficiency of drugs in the nasal cavity. In vitro, the DGND alleviates lipopolysaccharides (LPS)‐induced BV2 inflammation. In vivo, DGND effectively targets the nasal mucosa and deliver drugs to the brain, which activate Sirt1 to alleviate inflammation mediated by microglia and improve cognitive dysfunction in sepsis mice.
Highly Efficient Organic Solar Cells with the Highly Crystalline Third Component as a Morphology Regulator
Authors: Sun Shixiu , Tan Cuilin , Zhang Zijian , Zhou Hang , Xu Wenjing , Xu Yujie , Du Xiaoyan , Jeong Sang Young , Woo Han Young , Zhang Fujun , Zhang Chao , Sun Qianqian
Published: July 2024

The morphology of the active layer is crucial for highly efficient organic solar cells (OSCs), which can be regulated by selecting a rational third component. In this work, the highly crystalline nonfullerene acceptor BTP‐eC9 is selected as the morphology regulator in OSCs with PM6:BTP‐BO‐4Cl as the main system. The addition of BTP‐eC9 can prolong the nucleation and crystallization progress of acceptor and donor molecules, thereby enhancing the order of molecular arrangement. Meanwhile, the nucleation and crystallization time of the donor is earlier than that of the acceptors after introducing BTP‐eC9, which is beneficial for obtaining a better vertical structural phase separation. The exciton dissociation, charge transport, and charge collection are promoted effectively by the optimized morphology of the active layer, which improves the short‐circuit current density and filling factor. After introducing BTP‐eC9, the power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) of the ternary OSCs are improved from 17.31% to 18.15%. The PCE is further improved to 18.39% by introducing gold nanopyramid (Au NBPs) into the hole transport layer to improve photon utilization efficiency. This work indicates that the morphology can be optimized by selecting a highly crystalline third component to regulate the nucleation and crystallization progress of the acceptor and donor molecules.
Object Constraint Language based test case optimization with modified Average Percentage of Fault Detection metric
Authors: Jin Kunxiang , Lano Kevin
Published: July 2024

Testing is one of the most time‐consuming and unpredictable processes within the software development life cycle. As a result, many test case optimization (TCO) techniques have been proposed to make this process more scalable. Object Constraint Language (OCL) was initially introduced as a constraint language to provide additional details to Unified Modeling Language models. However, as OCL continues to evolve, an increasing number of systems are being expressed by this language. Despite this growth, a noticeable research gap exists for the testing of systems whose specifications are expressed in OCL. In our previous work, we verified the effectiveness and efficiency of performing the test case prioritization (TCP) process for these systems. In this study, we extend our previous work by integrating the test case minimization (TCM) process to determine whether TCM can also benefit the testing process under the context of OCL. The evaluation of TCO approaches often relies on well‐established metrics such as the average percentage of fault detection (APFD). However, the suitability of APFD for model‐based testing (MBT) is not ideal. This paper addresses this limitation by proposing a modification to the APFD metric to enhance its viability for MBT scenarios. We conducted four case studies to evaluate the feasibility of integrating the TCM and TCP processes into our proposed approach. In these studies, we applied the multi‐objective optimization algorithm NSGA‐II and the genetic algorithm independently to the TCM and TCP processes. The objective was to assess the effectiveness and efficiency of combining TCM and TCP in enhancing the testing phase. Through experimental analysis, the results highlight the benefits of integrating TCM and TCP in the context of OCL‐based testing, providing valuable insights for practitioners and researchers aiming to optimize their testing efforts. Specifically, the main contributions of this work include the following: (1) we introduce the integration of the TCM process into the TCO process for systems expressed by OCL. This integration benefits the testing process further by reducing redundant test cases while ensuring sufficient coverage. (2) We comprehensively analyze the limitations associated with the commonly used metric, APFD, and then, a modified version of the APFD metric has been proposed to overcome these weaknesses. (3). We systematically evaluate the effectiveness and efficiency of OCL‐based TCO processes on four real‐world case studies with different complexities.
OrganogenesisDB: A Comprehensive Database Exploring the Cell‐Type Identities and Gene Expression Dynamics during Organogenesis
Authors: Zhang Xinshuai , Ma Jiacheng , Li Hongchao , Zhai Yuanjun , He Fuchu , Wang Xiaowen , Li Yang
Published: July 2024

Organogenesis, the phase of embryonic development that starts at the end of gastrulation and continues until birth is the critical process for understanding cellular differentiation and maturation during organ development. The rapid development of single‐cell transcriptomics technology has led to many novel discoveries in understanding organogenesis while also accumulating a large quantity of data. To fill this gap, OrganogenesisDB (http://organogenesisdb.com/), which is a comprehensive database dedicated to exploring cell‐type identification and gene expression dynamics during organogenesis, is developed. OrganogenesisDB contains single‐cell RNA sequencing data for more than 1.4 million cells from 49 published datasets spanning various developmental stages. Additionally, 3324 cell markers are manually curated for 1120 cell types across 9 human organs and 4 mouse organs. OrganogenesisDB leverages various analysis tools to assist users in annotating and understanding cell types at different developmental stages and helps in mining and presenting genes that exhibit specific patterns and play key regulatory roles during cell maturation and differentiation. This work provides a critical resource and useful tool for deciphering cell lineage determination and uncovering the mechanisms underlying organogenesis.
Field efficacy of a novel porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome modified‐live virus vaccine with an emphasis on growth performance
Authors: Ham Sehyeong , Lee Hyunjoon , Suh Jeongmin , Kim Chonghan , Kwon Woo Ju , Park Gyeong‐Seo , Chae Chanhee
Published: July 2024

Background

This field evaluation was designed to evaluate the efficacy of a new porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus‐2 (PRRSV‐2) modified live virus vaccine at three independent pig farms.

Methods

Three farms were selected for this study based on their respiratory disease status caused by PRRSV‐2 infection in post‐weaning and growing pigs. Each farm housed a total of 40, 18‐day‐old pigs that were randomly allocated to one of two treatment groups. Pigs were administered a 1.0 mL dose of the bivalent vaccine intramuscularly at 21 days of age in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations, whereas unvaccinated pigs were administered a single dose of phosphate buffered saline at the same age.

Results

Vaccinated groups were measured and calculated significantly (p < 0.05) higher in body weight and average daily weight gain on all three farms compared with unvaccinated groups. Vaccinated groups elicited PRRS antibodies and PRRSV‐2‐specific interferon‐γ secreting cells, which reduced the amount of PRRSV‐2 genomic copies in the blood and reduced macroscopic and microscopic lung lesions severity when compared with unvaccinated groups.

Conclusions

The field evaluation data demonstrated that a new PRRSV‐2 modified live virus vaccine was efficacious in swine herds suffering from respiratory diseases caused by PRRSV‐2 infection.
Struvite in circular economy: Production techniques, emerging applications and market opportunities
Authors: Chandrasekaran Sivaraman , Zaffar Alisha , Balasubramanian Paramasivan
Published: July 2024

Struvite precipitation is an efficient approach to recover phosphorus and ammonium from wastewater to alleviate many operational as well as environmental issues. The sparingly soluble nature of struvite in water makes it a potential slow‐release fertilizer whose adequacy has been investigated in various soil‐based cultivation. However, struvite has diverse applications other than field usage which are yet to be explored. The review highlights the usage of struvite as a fertilizer in soil along with its other applications as a nutrient supplier in hydroponic systems, fire retardants, and sorbent for the adsorption of heavy metals, dye, and gases. The research gaps between the lab and the application of the struvite products in the market for its proper utilization have also been reported. Thus, struvite produced from wastewater can be a promising green chemistry that could replace many costly, synthetic, and harmful products, while conserving phosphorous resource at the same time.

This article is categorized under:

Climate and Environment > Circular Economy

Emerging Technologies > Materials

Sustainable Development > Goals
Monitoring the world‐oldest zoo‐housed male giant panda (Ailuropoda melanoleuca): A case‐study on pathway utilization
Authors: Tan Iris Ziying , Matrai Eszter , Martelli Paolo
Published: July 2024

Habitat use monitoring is necessary for a comprehensive understanding of the biological and psychological requirements of animals under human care, facilitating improved exhibit designs and promoting animal welfare. Current studies focused on the space use of the exhibit while limited studies examined the pathway use of the zoo‐housed animals. This study aimed to investigate the habitat use of An An, the world‐oldest male giant panda (Ailuropoda melanoleuca) at Ocean Park Hong Kong using a pathway utilization monitoring method. The result showed uneven utilization of pathways favoring the upper area near his den over the lower area which required longer walking in the hilly exhibit. Moreover, the comparisons of walking directions showed a preference for gentle slopes during uphill movement and a favor for steep slopes during downhill movement. Our study also compared the walking distance between uphill and downhill movements and the results showed that An An walked longer distances heading upward than moving downward due to his choice of pathways. Our results are in line with the findings in the wild population, showing a preference for gentle slopes, especially in uphill movement. Our study demonstrated the value of the pathway monitoring technique. Due to its easy and time‐effective use, this technique can be incorporated into the care teams' operation, providing valuable information on daily activity (e.g. accessing the walking ability of the aged animals by investigating the pathway use and walking distance) and habitat use. Consequently, the pathway monitoring technique can help improve exhibit designs promoting welfare.
From elastic shallow shells to beams with elastic hinges by $$\Gamma $$-convergence
Authors: Paroni Roberto , Picchi Scardaoni Marco
Published: July 2024

In this paper, we study the $$\Gamma $$
Γ
-limit of a properly rescaled family of energies, defined on a narrow strip, as the width of the strip tends to zero. The limit energy is one-dimensional and is able to capture (and penalize) concentrations of the midline curvature. At the best of our knowledge, it is the first paper in the $$\Gamma $$
Γ
-convergence field for dimension reduction that predicts elastic hinges. In particular, starting from a purely elastic shell model with “smooth” solutions, we obtain a beam model where the derivatives of the displacement and/or of the rotation fields may have jump discontinuities. Mechanically speaking, elastic hinges can occur in the beam.
Evolution of electrical resistance of graphite foils during spark plasma sintering
Authors: Mwaro William B. , Mphahlele Mahlatse R. , Walker Mark
Published: July 2024

The progression of the electrical resistance of graphite foils during spark plasma sintering process (SPS) was investigated at constant temperature and pressure. The study applied various set-ups of the SPS device, and the electrical data used for the evaluation of electrical resistance (heating power and current) was obtained from the SPS apparatus in real-time. The contact resistance and resistance due to graphite foil/s was evaluated by subtracting the resistance of the single punch set-up from the set-up of two punches in direct contact and the set-ups with various graphite foils. The results showed that during the initial stages of sintering, set-up resistance increases with time and that, overall, set-up resistance increases with number of graphite foils. Both contact resistance and resistance due to graphite foils was found to decrease with sintering time. In contrast to previous conceptions, the electrical resistance of graphite foils changes in response to sintering conditions during the SPS process.
Urgent and emergent pediatric cardiovascular imaging
Authors: de Lange Charlotte , Rodriguez Carlos Marin , Martinez-Rios Claudia , Lam Christopher Z.
Published: July 2024

The need for urgent or emergent cardiovascular imaging in children is rare when compared to adults. Patients may present from the neonatal period up to adolescence, and may require imaging for both traumatic and non-traumatic causes. In children, coronary pathology is rarely the cause of an emergency unlike in adults where it is the main cause. Radiology, including chest radiography and computed tomography in conjunction with echocardiography, often plays the most important role in the acute management of these patients. Magnetic resonance imaging can occasionally be useful and may be suitable in more subacute cases. Radiologists’ knowledge of how to manage and interpret these acute conditions including knowing which imaging technique to use is fundamental to appropriate care. In this review, we will concentrate on the most common cardiovascular emergencies in the thoracic region, including thoracic traumatic and non-traumatic emergencies and pulmonary vascular emergencies, as well as acute clinical disorders as a consequence of primary and postoperative congenital heart disease. This review will cover situations where cardiovascular imaging may be acutely needed, and not strictly emergencies only. Imaging recommendations will be discussed according to the different clinical presentations and underlying pathology.

Graphical Abstract
Long-term survivals of immune checkpoint inhibitors as neoadjuvant and adjuvant therapy in dMMR/MSI-H colorectal and gastric cancers
Authors: Wang Zhenghang , Cheng Siyuan , Yao Yanhong , Liu Shengde , Liu Zimin , Liu Ning , Jin Yongdong , Zhang Yinjie , Yin Fei , Han Guangjie , Zhang Jingdong , Wang Qiwei , Yan Dong , Wang Li , Lu Hongxia , Deng Ting , Ji Zhi , Gao Hui , Fang Weijia , Zhang Hangyu , Chen Zhiyu , Zou Jianling , Tang Yong , Xu Chunlei , Li Jiayi , Qu Huajun , Bao Liying , Cao Baoshan , Wang Xicheng , Xu Ting , Sun Yu , Shen Lin , Peng Zhi , Li Jian
Published: July 2024

Background

The long-term survival benefit of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) in neoadjuvant and adjuvant settings is unclear for colorectal cancers (CRC) and gastric cancers (GC) with deficiency of mismatch repair (dMMR) or microsatellite instability-high (MSI-H).

Methods

This retrospective study enrolled patients with dMMR/MSI-H CRC and GC who received at least one dose of neoadjuvant ICIs (neoadjuvant cohort, NAC) or adjuvant ICIs (adjuvant cohort, AC) at 17 centers in China. Patients with stage IV disease were also eligible if all tumor lesions were radically resectable.

Results

In NAC (n = 124), objective response rates were 75.7% and 55.4%, respectively, in CRC and GC, and pathological complete response rates were 73.4% and 47.7%, respectively. The 3-year disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) rates were 96% (95%CI 90–100%) and 100% for CRC (median follow-up [mFU] 29.4 months), respectively, and were 84% (72–96%) and 93% (85–100%) for GC (mFU 33.0 months), respectively. In AC (n = 48), the 3-year DFS and OS rates were 94% (84–100%) and 100% for CRC (mFU 35.5 months), respectively, and were 92% (82–100%) and 96% (88–100%) for GC (mFU 40.4 months), respectively. Among the seven patients with distant relapse, four received dual blockade of PD1 and CTLA4 combined with or without chemo- and targeted drugs, with three partial response and one progressive disease.

Conclusion

With a relatively long follow-up, this study demonstrated that neoadjuvant and adjuvant ICIs might be both associated with promising DFS and OS in dMMR/MSI-H CRC and GC, which should be confirmed in further randomized clinical trials.
A dynamic state variable model suggests a stronger effect of age than individual energetic state on reproductive allocation in burying beetles
Authors: Yang Nathaneal Y. , Griffen Blaine D. , Creighton J. Curtis , Belk Mark C.
Published: July 2024

Evolutionary fitness is determined by how an organism allocates energy, or other limited resources, to reproduction during its lifetime. For iteroparous organisms, two alternative patterns of lifetime reproductive allocation are terminal investment and reproductive restraint. Terminal investment maximizes an individual’s current reproductive output by allocating all available resources to current reproduction at the cost of future reproduction. In contrast, the reproductive restraint strategy allocates the individual’s resources toward future survival and reproductive events. We used dynamic state variable modeling to investigate the conditions under which the burying beetle, Nicrophorus orbicollis, would balance between reproductive restraint and terminal investment over their lifetime. Our model provides a formal extension, specific to burying beetle biology, of the dynamic terminal investment threshold conceptual model. For young females, we show that delayed reproduction and reproductive restraint are the optimal tactic for all individuals except for those in the highest condition. However, as age increases, terminal investment becomes the optimal tactic over an increasingly broader range of individual conditions. Surprisingly, manipulation of a variety of factors, such as survival rate, resource availability, and metabolic costs, causes only minor changes in the general pattern observed. We suggest that in burying beetles, and other similar organisms, age plays a dominant role in determining the pattern of reproductive allocation over a lifetime. Individual energetic condition is important in changing the boundaries between alternative reproductive strategies, but it does not change the overall pattern of dominance of delayed reproduction or reproductive restraint at early ages and dominance of terminal investment with increasing age.
Atomic resolution transmission electron microscopy visualisation of channel occupancy in beryl in different crystallographic directions
Authors: Hanser Carina Silke , Vullum Per Erik , van Helvoort Antonius Theodorus Johannes , Schmitz Fabian Dietmar , Häger Tobias , Botcharnikov Roman , Holst Bodil
Published: July 2024

The causes of colour in beryl have been a research topic for decades. For some varieties, such as emerald (green, coloured by Cr3+ and/or V3+), the main cause of colour is substitutions by metal atoms within the framework. However, the causes for the yellow and blue colours in heliodor, golden beryl and aquamarine are still debated. It is generally agreed that Fe ions are responsible for the colour, but there are differing conclusions about the valence states of these ions, the occupied positions and the colour-inducing processes involved. The colour of aquamarine is commonly attributed to intervalence charge transfer (IVCT) between Fe3+ and Fe2+. Various combinations of sites have been proposed to host the Fe ions engaging in this IVCT. Here we present a new approach to address the topic of colour generation: atomic resolution scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM). For the first time, atomic resolution images of a beryl (natural aquamarine) are presented in the three crystallographic directions [0001], [1-210] and [1-100]. Ions are clearly resolved in the channels. From the ratio of channel occupation and the correlation of the atoms per formula unit (apfu) calculations we conclude that Fe resides in the framework, not in the channels. The projections in the [1-210] direction directly show that the cavity channel site 2a is occupied, most likely by Cs, in agreement with recent results in the literature.
High-speed single-frame polarimeter for thermal radiation to measure the 3D geometry of hot metal surfaces
Authors: Sawannia Michael , Berger Peter , Weber Rudolf , Hagenlocher Christian , Graf Thomas
Published: July 2024

The 3D geometry of the interaction zone in laser material processing is of major importance as it defines the absorption of the laser beam and may influence the hydrodynamics of the process. With the aim of measuring this geometry, which typically changes with frequencies in the order of 10 kHz, a single-frame polarimeter with acquisition rates of up to 75 kHz is presented in this work. It simultaneously records four images of the thermal process emission, through four linear polarizers with different orientations. The formulae required for the reconstruction of the 3D geometry from these images are derived and validated on an example of a heated steel sphere. The reconstructed geometry was found to be in good agreement with the examined sphere. An experimental example is also given of the application of this technology to geometry measurement of a highly dynamic laser cutting front at a framerate of 75 kHz.
Orthogonal plating for complex olecranon fractures: retrospective case series with patient-reported outcomes
Authors: Ingwersen Tjalling Aurelius Sebastiaan , Wagner Robert Kaspar , Veenendaal Wouter , Kloen Peter
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Treatment for complex olecranon fractures with metaphyseal comminution can be challenging. To improve reduction maneuvers and augment stability, we apply a small medial and/or lateral locking compression plate (LCP) prior to placing a posterior contoured 3.5 mm–2.7 mm LCP. The aim is to describe our technique and outcomes of this “orthogonal” plating technique.

Material and Methods

26 patients were treated with orthogonal plating. Clinical outcome variables were available for all patients at a median of 27 months (IQR 6–54), and patient-reported outcomes (Q-DASH and MEPS) for 23 patients at 38 months (IQR 18–71).

Results

All fractures healed at a median of 2.0 months (IQR 1.5–3.8). The median elbow flexion was 120°, extension-deficit 15°, pronation 88°, and supination 85°. The median Q-DASH was 9 (IQR 0–22) and the median MEPS was 90 (IQR 80–100). Hardware was electively removed in seven patients. One patient had a late superficial infection that resolved with hardware removal and antibiotics, and one patient had two consecutive re-fractures after two hardware removals; and healed after the second revision surgery.

Conclusion

Orthogonal plating with a posterior LCP and a small medial and/or lateral LCP is a safe technique that leads to excellent healing rates, and good clinical and patient-reported outcomes.
Fatigue in multiple sclerosis: can we measure it and can we treat it?
Authors: DeLuca John
Published: July 2024

Fatigue is a common and debilitating symptom in multiple sclerosis (MS). However, after over 100 years of inquiry its definition, measurement and understanding remains elusive. This paper describes the challenges clinicians and researchers face when assessing and treating MS patients, as well as our understanding of neural mechanisms involved in fatigue. Challenges for the future are discussed.
Island hitchhikers: pathogen agents of Madeira and Azores ticks
Authors: Rosa Fernanda , Silva Carla , Rodrigues Ricardo , Esteves-Vieira Mariana , Barbosa Inês , Rosa Sara , Dias Deodália , Pina-Martins Francisco
Published: July 2024

Ticks are blood-sucking arthropods that can transmit pathogens to their host. As insular ecosystems can enhance tick-host interactions, this study aimed to understand tick diversity, pathogen presence, and their respective associations in the Azores and Madeira archipelagos. Unfed or partially engorged ticks (n = 120) were collected from 58 cats and dogs in the Azores (n = 41 specimens) and Madeira (n = 79 specimens) from November 2018 to March 2019. Vector identification was based on morphology and molecular criteria. For pathogen sequencing, 18S gene fragment for Babesia/Hepatozoon and gltA for Rickettsia were performed. Sequence data was explored using BLAST and BLAST and phylogenetic inference tools. In the Azores, Ixodes hexagonus, I. ventalloi, and Rhipicephalus sanguineus (n = 6; 14.6%, n = 6; 14.6%, and n = 29; 70.7% respectively) were found and in Madeira I. ricinus and R. sanguineus (n = 78, 98.7%; and n = 1, 1.3%; respectively) were identified. Tick COI markers confirmed species highlighting confirmation of R. sanguineus s.s. and genotype A of I. ventalloi. In the Azores Islands, the detected Rickettsia massiliae was linked to R. sanguineus (dogs and cats) and I. hexagonus (dogs), and in Madeira Island, R. monacensis (dogs) and Hepatozoon silvestris (cats) were found associated with I. ricinus. Further, I. ventalloi presence in the Azores expands west its known range, and Hepatozoon silvestris in Madeira may suggest that I. ricinus could have a role as a potential vector. Finally, as R. massiliae and R. monacensis presence underlines public health risks, surveillance by health authorities is crucial as pathogen-tick interactions may drive disease spread, therefore monitoring remains pivotal for disease prevention.
Identifying fine motor difficulties in children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia: a scoping review
Authors: Hanna Silvia , El-Ayadi Moatasem , Abdelazeim Faten
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Survival rates for children diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) have increased significantly over recent decades, and thus attention shifted toward understanding the adverse effects of cancer treatment. Chemotherapy has side effects that could affect muscle state and diminish motor performance. This scoping review was conducted to map the breadth of evidence for different tools used in fine motor skills assessment, the extent of upper extremity strength, and fine motor performance, highlighting the potential risk factors that may influence these skills.

Methods

In March 2023, full-text studies that examined fine motor performance and/or upper extremity strength were identified via searches in PubMed, Science Direct, Scopus, Web of Science, and PEDro databases. The titles and abstracts of selected studies were screened according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria.

Results

The search yielded initial 418 citations and 26 peer-reviewed articles were finally included in the review. Considerable heterogeneity was observed regarding the methods of evaluating fine motor skills. The results of this review indicate that children and adolescents with ALL experienced fine motor limitations and upper extremity weakness either during or after cessation of treatment.

Conclusion

This scoping review presents a broad overview of the literature addressing fine motor difficulties in the pediatric population with ALL. Results accentuate the need to incorporate strengthening and occupational therapy training to preserve muscle strength and minimize future fine motor problems along the course of chemotherapeutic treatment. Little evidence was reported regarding the risk factors that may impair muscle strength and motor performance.
Nutritional support in pancreatic cancer patients and its effect on nutritional status: an observational regional HPB network study investigating current practice
Authors: Wijma Allard G. , Hogenbirk Rianne N. M. , Driessens Heleen , Kluifhooft Daniëlle A. , Jellema-Betten Ellen S. , Tjalsma-de Vries Marlies , Liem Mike S. L. , Nieuwenhuijs Vincent B. , Manusama Eric M. , Hoogwater Frederik J. H. , Nijkamp Maarten W. , Beijer Sandra , Klaase Joost M.
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Preoperative malnutrition is associated with poor postoperative outcomes in patients with pancreatic cancer. This study evaluated the effectiveness of current practice in nutritional support for patients with pancreatic cancer.

Methods

Observational multicenter HPB network study conducted at the Isala Clinics Zwolle, Medical Spectrum Twente, Medical Center Leeuwarden, and University Medical Center Groningen between October 2021 and May 2023. Patients with a suspected pancreatic malignancy scheduled for surgery were screened for malnutrition using the Patient-Generated Subjective Global Assessment (PG-SGA) questionnaire and referred to a dedicated dietician for nutritional support comprising pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy, dietary advice, and nutritional supplements to achieve adequate caloric and protein intake. At baseline, 1 day preoperatively, and 3 months postoperatively, the nutritional status and muscle thickness were evaluated.

Results

The study included 30 patients, of whom 12 (40%) classified as malnourished (PG-SGA ≥ 4) at baseline. Compared to well-nourished patients, malnourished patients were younger, were predominantly female, and had a higher body mass index, despite having lost more body weight in the past 6 months. All malnourished patients and 78% of the well-nourished patients received nutritional support. Consequently, a preoperative increase in caloric and protein intake and body weight were observed. Postoperatively, despite a further increase in caloric intake, a considerable decrease in protein intake, body weight, and muscle thickness was observed.

Conclusion

Malnutrition is prevalent in patients undergoing pancreatic surgery. Nutritional support by a dedicated dietician is effective in enhancing patients’ preoperative nutritional status. However, postoperative monitoring of adequate nutritional intake in patients could be improved.
An elementary proof of existence and uniqueness for the Euler flow in localized Yudovich spaces
Authors: Crippa Gianluca , Stefani Giorgio
Published: July 2024

We revisit Yudovich’s well-posedness result for the 2-dimensional Euler equations for an inviscid incompressible fluid on either a sufficiently regular (not necessarily bounded) open set $$\Omega \subset \mathbb {R}^2$$

Ω
⊂

R

2

or on the torus $$\Omega =\mathbb {T}^2$$

Ω
=

T

2

. We construct global-in-time weak solutions with vorticity in $$L^1\cap L^p_{ul}$$

L
1

∩

L

ul

p

and in $$L^1\cap Y^\Theta _{ul}$$

L
1

∩

Y

ul

Θ

, where $$L^p_{ul}$$

L

ul

p

and $$Y^\Theta _{ul}$$

Y

ul

Θ

are suitable uniformly-localized versions of the Lebesgue space $$L^p$$

L
p

and of the Yudovich space $$Y^\Theta $$

Y
Θ

respectively, with no condition at infinity for the growth function $$\Theta $$
Θ
. We also provide an explicit modulus of continuity for the velocity depending on the growth function $$\Theta $$
Θ
. We prove uniqueness of weak solutions in $$L^1\cap Y^\Theta _{ul}$$

L
1

∩

Y

ul

Θ

under the assumption that $$\Theta $$
Θ
grows moderately at infinity. In contrast to Yudovich’s energy method, we employ a Lagrangian strategy to show uniqueness. Our entire argument relies on elementary real-variable techniques, with no use of either Sobolev spaces, Calderón–Zygmund theory or Littlewood–Paley decomposition, and actually applies not only to the Biot–Savart law, but also to more general operators whose kernels obey some natural structural assumptions.