bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vancomycin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus endangers Egyptian dairy herds
Authors: Tartor Yasmine H. , Enany Mohamed E. , Ismail Noreen I. , El-Demerdash Azza S. , Eidaroos Nada H. , Algendy Reem M. , Mahmmod Yasser , Elsohaby Ibrahim
Published: December 2024

The emergence of pandrug-resistant (PDR) and extensive drug-resistant (XDR) methicillin-resistant and vancomycin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA and VRSA) isolates from bovine milk samples along with biofilm formation ability and harboring various virulence genes complicates the treatment of bovine mastitis and highlights the serious threat to public health. This study investigated for the first time the frequency, antimicrobial resistance profiles, biofilm-forming ability, virulence factors, spa and staphylococcal cassette chromosome mec (SCCmec) types of MRSA and VRSA isolated from clinical and subclinical bovine mastitis in Egypt. A total of 808 milk samples were collected from each quarter of 202 dairy animals, including 31 buffaloes and 171 cattle. The frequency of mastitis in the collected milk samples was 48.4% (60/124) in buffaloes and 29.2% (200/684) in cattle. A total of 65 Staphylococcus species isolates were recovered, including 27 coagulase-positive S. aureus (CoPS) isolates and 38 coagulase-negative staphylococci (CoNS). The CoNS included 27 mammaliicocci (20 Mammaliicoccus lentus and 7 M. sciuri) and 11 Non-aureus staphylococci (S. lugdunensis) isolates. All the CoPS isolates were mecA positive and resistant to 20–33 tested antimicrobials with multiple antibiotic resistance index ranging from 0.61 to 1. Three isolates were PDR, four were XDR, and 20 were multidrug resistant isolates. VRSA was detected in 85.2% of CoPS isolates with minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) ranging from 64 to 1024 µg/mL. The vanA gene was found in 60.8%, vanB in 73.9%, and both genes in 43.5% of VRSA isolates. All the CoPS isolates exhibited biofilm formation ability, with 55.6% being strong, and 44.4% moderate biofilm producers, and harbored icaA (74.1%) and icaD (74.1%) biofilm-forming genes. All S. aureus isolates harbored both beta-haemolysin (hlb) and leucotoxin (lukMF) genes, while 44.4% were positive for toxic shock syndrome toxin (tsst) gene. Enterotoxin genes sea, seb, sec, sed, and see were found in 59.3%, 40.7%, 18.5%, 33.3%, and 14.8% of isolates, respectively. Additionally, 70.4% of the isolates had spa X-region gene, and exhibited eight different MRSA spa types (t127, t267, t037, t011, t843, t1081, t2663, and t1575), with spa t127 being the most common. Three SCCmec types (I, II and III) were identified, with SCCmec I being predominant, and were further classified into subtypes 1.1.1, 1.1.2, 1.n.1, and 4.1.1. The ability of MRSA and VRSA isolates to produce biofilms and resist antimicrobials highlights the serious threat these pathogens pose to bovine milk safety, animal welfare, and public health. Therefore, strict hygiene practices and antimicrobial surveillance are crucial to reduce the risk of MRSA and VRSA colonization and dissemination.
Propolis extract nanoparticles alleviate diabetes-induced reproductive dysfunction in male rats: antidiabetic, antioxidant, and steroidogenesis modulatory role
Authors: Emil Abram B. , Hassan Neven H. , Ibrahim Sally , Hassanen Eman I. , Eldin Zienab E. , Ali Sara E.
Published: December 2024

Diabetes can affect male fertility via oxidative stress and endocrine system disruption. Nanomedicine based on natural products is employed to address diabetes complications. The current study aims to investigate the potential beneficial effect of propolis extract nanoparticles against diabetes-induced testicular damage in male rats. Sixty male rats were randomly allocated to six groups (n = 10). The first group served as a control group. The second and third received propolis extract (Pr) and propolis extract nanoparticles (PrNPs). The fourth group is the diabetic group that received streptozotocin (STZ) (55 mg kg/bwt) single-dose i/p. The fifth and sixth groups are diabetic rats treated with Pr and PrNPs. Both Pr and PrNPs were received at a dose (100 mg/kg bwt) orally. After 60 days, animals were euthanized, then pancreatic and testicular tissues were collected for redox status evaluation, gene expression analysis, and histopathological examination. Also, hormonal analysis (Insulin, total testosterone, and luteinizing hormone (LH) ) along with semen quality evaluation were done. Results showed that the induction of diabetes led to testicular and pancreatic redox status deterioration showing a reduction in reduced glutathione (GSH) as well as elevation of malondialdehyde (MDA), and nitric oxide (NO) levels. Also, relative transcript levels of testicular cytochrome P450 family 11 subfamily A member 1 (CYP11A1), 3β-Hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (HSD-3β), and nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (NFE2L2) were significantly down-regulated, While the advanced glycation end-product receptor (AGER) relative gene expression was significantly upregulated. Furthermore, hormonal and semen analysis disturbances were observed. Upon treatment with Pr and PrNPs,  a marked upregulation of testicular gene expression of CYP11A1, HSD-3β, and NFE2L2 as well as a downregulation of AGER, was observed. Hormones and semen analysis were improved. In addition, the testicular and pancreatic redox status was enhanced. Results were confirmed via histopathological investigations. PrNPs outperformed Pr in terms of steroidogenesis pathway improvement, testicular antioxidant defense mechanism augmentation, and prospective antidiabetic activity.
Influence of ethephon and soil treatments on the essential oil composition of sweet fennel and its biological activities
Authors: Mina Suzan Adib , Bishr Mokhtar Mohamed , Hassan Hoda Mazyoun , Abdel-Khalik Soad Mohamed
Published: December 2024

The manipulation of cultivation conditions in addition to environmental changes is a key factor affecting the growth, secondary metabolites production, and the biological activity of the plant. Our study aims to evaluate the impact of foliar spray of ethephon, water stress, organic and inorganic fertilizers on the cytotoxic and antimicrobial activities of the fruit oil of Foeniculum vulgare, Miller, var. dulce and its vegetative growth and oil composition. Four different soil treatments were implemented. Gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry GC/MS was applied to identify the volatile compounds. Evaluation of both the cytotoxic and the antimicrobial activities of the fruit oil were assessed using the viability assay and the well diffusion method respectively. Variations in the vegetative growth factors and the essential oil (EO) composition were recorded. About a 94.7% increase in the total oil yield was detected in condition 3 compared to control. The oil sample obtained under condition 1 showed the strongest antimicrobial activity against most tested strains and a significant cytotoxic effect against prostate carcinoma (PC-3) cells. Facing the global problem of water deficit, our success in producing a good quality fennel crop and its EO content upon application of drought stress and will be very beneficial at both the economic and the pharmaceutical levels.
Valorization of textile waste for removal of Cadmium from contaminated water
Authors: Aziz Humera , Ashraf Munir , Rizwan Muhammad , Riaz Umair , Akram Saba , Raza Ali , Hong Yong Jean Wan
Published: December 2024

The rapid development in agriculture and industrial sectors has raised some serious global issues like heavy metals pollution of water resources. Cadmium (Cd) is amongst the major water pollutants worldwide. In this study, two novel sorbents were prepared by using post-consumer textile waste (PCTW). The waste denim fabric was recycled with environmentally friendly H2O2 and Ozone through oxidation under alkaline conditions to produce several functional groups at the surface (named as ODF@H202 and ODF@03 respectively) that could trap the heavy metal cations from contaminated water. The functionalized fabric sorbents were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-Ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy dispersive X-Ray (EDX) that revealed the presence of carboxylic acid, hydroxyl, and amine functional groups on their surfaces. The sorption isotherm, sorption kinetics and sorption thermodynamics were carried out to unravel the sorption process mechanism. The ODF@H202 sorbent was proved more effective by giving maximum adsorption capacity of (238.09 mg g−1) compared to Ozone treatment (175.44 mg g−1) for Cd2+ and achieved within just 20 min for both sorbents. Pseudo 2nd order and Langmuir models confirmed the chemosorption as dominant mechanism for the monolayer sorption of Cd2+ ions onto ODF@H202 and ODF@03. The sorption thermodynamic revealed the sorption process as endothermic and spontaneous in nature. The results showed that both ODF@H202 and ODF@03 sorbents have an efficient potential for sorbing Cd from contaminated water. Furthermore, both ODF@H202 and ODF@03 sorbents were also tested in a regeneration study to investigate the reuse of these sorbents, and we achieved marvelous results. Both sorbents gave up to 90% of the sorption capacity even after 10 recycles. Conclusively, both sorbents can have their implications for the preparation of filters that can be used for the treatment of wastewater. This study has practical significance by tackling the two environmental problems i.e. heavy metal pollution and denim waste.
Impact of surface chemistry of upconversion nanoparticles on time-dependent cytotoxicity in non-cancerous epithelial cells
Authors: Märkl Susanne , Przybilla Frédéric , Rachel Reinhard , Hirsch Thomas , Keller Max , Witzgall Ralph , Mély Yves , Wegener Joachim
Published: December 2024

The application of upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) for cell and tissue analysis requires a comprehensive understanding of their interactions with biological entities to prevent toxicity or harmful effects. Whereas most studies focus on cancer cells, this work addresses non-cancerous cells with their regular in vitro physiology. Since it is generally accepted that surface chemistry largely determines biocompatibility in general and uptake of nanomaterials in particular, two bilayer surface coatings with different surface shielding properties have been studied: (i) a phospholipid bilayer membrane (PLM) and (ii) an amphiphilic polymer (AP). Both surface modifications are applied to (12–33) nm core-shell UCNPs NaYF4(Yb, Er)@NaYF4, ensuring colloidal stability in biological media. The impact of UCNPs@AP and UCNPs@PLM on non-cancerous epithelial-like kidney cells in vitro was found to differ significantly. UCNPs@PLM did not exhibit any measurable effect on cell physiology, even with prolonged exposure. In contrast, UCNPs@AP caused changes in cell morphology and induced cell-death after approximately 30 h. These variations in toxicity are attributed to the distinct chemical stability of these particles, which likely influences their intracellular disintegration.
A shorter linker in the bispecific antibody RmAb158-scFv8D3 improves TfR-mediated blood-brain barrier transcytosis in vitro
Authors: Petersen Inga , Morrison Jamie I. , Petrovic Alex , Babic Neira , Metzendorf Nicole G. , Godec Ana , de la Rosa Andrés , Rofo Fadi , Bondza Sina , Buijs Jos , Ranjbarian Farahnaz , Hofer Anders , Sehlin Dag , Hultqvist Greta
Published: December 2024

Transferrin Receptor (TfR)-mediated transcytosis across the blood-brain barrier (BBB) enables the uptake of bispecific therapeutic antibodies into the brain. At therapeutically relevant concentrations, bivalent binding to TfR appears to reduce the transcytosis efficiency by receptor crosslinking. In this study, we aimed to improve BBB transcytosis of symmetric antibodies through minimizing their ability to cause TfR crosslinking. We created variants of the previously published RmAb158-scFv8D3, where the linker length between RmAb158 and the mTfR-targeting scFv8D3 was adjusted. We investigated the effect of the linker length on the antibodies’ binding kinetics to mTfR using ELISA and LigandTracer assays, and their ability to transcytose across BBB endothelial cells (In-Cell BBB-Trans assay). We show that even a direct fusion without a linker does not alter the antibodies’ apparent affinities to mTfR indicating their valency is unlikely affected by the linker length. However, the shortest linker variants demonstrated BBB transcytosis levels comparable to that of the monovalent control at a high antibody concentration and showed an almost two-fold higher level of BBB transcytosis compared to the longer-linker variants at the high concentration. Our new RmAb158-scFv8D3 short-linker variants are examples of symmetric, therapeutic antibodies with improved TfR-binding characteristics to facilitate more efficient brain uptake. We hypothesize that bivalent binding to TfR as such does not negatively affect BBB transcytosis in vitro, but a very short distance between TfR-targeting domains lowers the probability of receptor crosslinking. This study provides valuable insights into antibody-TfR interaction kinetics, contributing to future development of TfR-targeting antibody-based treatments for brain diseases.
Telemedicine-based exercise intervention in cancer survivors: a non-randomized controlled trial
Authors: Krell Verena , Porst Johanna , Hafermann Lorena , Kuhn Jessica , Greiß Franziska , Römer Claudia , Wolfarth Bernd
Published: December 2024

Cancer survivors (CS) often experience treatment-related side effects, such as fatigue, and have reduced physical function. Regular physical activity has been demonstrated to reduce these symptoms and improve cardiopulmonary fitness. Digital solutions are needed to optimize exercise options for CS in aftercare, especially given the significant limitations during the Covid-19 pandemic. This two-armed, non-randomized, controlled intervention study for CS aims to investigate whether a telemedicine-based exercise intervention is as effective as the current standard of care for oncological exercise therapy in aftercare. Patients in the intervention group (n = 61) performed a telemedicine-based exercise program (TE) and patients in the control group (n = 31) participated in an existing rehabilitation sports group (RG) over a six-month intervention period. The primary outcome was cardiopulmonary fitness measured by VO2peak; secondary outcomes included quality of life (QoL), fatigue, and physical activity. A non-inferiority analysis was performed with a predefined non-inferiority margin for relative VO2peak of -1.50 ml/min/kg. Although TE demonstrated a slight advantage in relative VO2peak compared to RG (adjusted mean difference of 0.55 ml/min/kg [95% CI: -2.74; 3.84]), the non-inferiority was not statistically significant. Nevertheless, the implementation of a telemedicine-based exercise intervention indicates that individual patients respond well to this type of exercise program and benefit from the intervention, particularly in terms of QoL. Finding an individualized program for each cancer survivor is the overarching goal. A telemedicine-based exercise intervention may be a promising option, particularly for younger patients.
Fortunate molecules boost signal to background ratio and localization precision in correlation based single molecule localization microscopy
Authors: S Aravinth , Zanacchi Francesca Cella , Mondal Partha Pratim
Published: December 2024

Single-molecule localization microscopy (SMLM) can decipher fine details that are otherwise impossible using diffraction-limited microscopy. Often, the reconstructed super-resolved images suffer from noise, strong background and are prone to false detections that may impact quantitative imaging. To overcome these limitations, we propose a technique (corrSMLM) that recognizes and detects fortunate molecules (molecules with long blinking cycles) from the recorded data. The method uses correlation between two or more consecutive frames to identify and isolate fortunate molecules that blink longer than the standard blinking period of a molecule. The corrSMLM is based on the fact that random fluctuations (noise) do not last longer (usually limited to a single frame). In contrast, fortunate molecules consistently fluoresce for extended periods and hence appear on more than one frame. Accordingly, strongly correlated spots (representing fortunate molecules) are compared in the consecutive frames, followed by data integration to determine their position and localization precision. The technique addresses two significant problems that plague existing SMLM : (1) false detection due to random noise that contributes to a strong background and (2) poor localization leading to overall low resolution. To demonstrate, corrSMLM is used for imaging fixed NIH3T3 cells (transfected with Dendra2-Actin, Dendra2-Tubulin, and mEos-Tom20 plasmid DNA). The super-resolved images show a significant reduction in background noise ( > 1.5 fold boost in SBR) and  > 2-fold improvement in localization precision as compared to standard SMLM. Intensity analysis based on the number of molecules suggests that corrSMLM better corroborates the raw data and preserves finer features (e.g., edges), which are wiped out in standard SMLM. Overall, an improvement is noted in the localization precision and spatial resolution. The proposed technique is anticipated to advance SMLM and is expected to contribute to a better understanding of single-molecule dynamics in a cellular environment.
Piezoelectric hydrogels for accelerating healing of diverse wound types
Authors: Wei Yanxing , Yu Qiwei , Zhan Yuxi , Wu Hao , Sun Qiang
Published: December 2024

This review summarizes the latest advancements in piezoelectric hydrogels and clarifies their wound-dressing applications in various types of wounds.
Advances in cross-coupling and oxidative coupling reactions of NH-sulfoximines – a review
Authors: Adam Elzubier Adam Hala , Zhou Sihan , Zeng Qingle
Published: December 2024

Due to the special structure and physicochemical properties of sulfoximines, research on sulfoximines has achieved great progress in recent decades, especially in chemical and medicinal fields.
Designing a Rh-based bimetallic catalyst for heterogeneous ethylene hydroformylation: combining theoretical predictions and experimental screening
Authors: Huang Ning , Ma Yue , Liu Boyang , Yang Letong , Lan Xiaocheng , Wu Xiaodong , Wang Tiefeng
Published: December 2024

Designing a Rh-based bimetallic catalyst for ethylene hydroformylation via prediction by descriptors and considerations on alloying tendency and feasibility.
Distinctive C–N cleavage/C–C formation mechanism in Au-catalyzed reactions of N-(o-alkynylphenyl)imines and vinyldiazo ketones
Authors: Liu Yuxia , Zhang Jing , Qu Qingqing , Cao Xinhui , Liu Lingjun , Chen Guang
Published: December 2024

A distinctive C–N cleavage/C–C bonding mechanism was theoretically revealed for Au-catalyzed reactions of N-(o-alkynylphenyl)imines with vinyldiazo ketones.
Development of a silver–polyaniline functionalized biosensor for non-enzymatic lactic acid detection
Authors: Kishnani Vinay , Makadia Rahul Ashvinbhai , Natarajan Satheesh , Joseph Jayaraj , Gupta Ankur
Published: December 2024

Pictorial illustration of proposed detection process.
Characterizing the stability of ultra-thin metal oxide catalyst films in non-thermal plasma CO2 reduction reactions
Authors: Conlin Samuel K. , Muhanga Joseph Joel , Parette David N. , Coridan Robert H.
Published: December 2024

The use of metal oxide catalysts to enhance plasma CO2 reduction has seen significant recent development towards processes to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and produce renewable chemical feedstocks.
Mechanical properties of two-dimensional material-based thin films: a comprehensive review
Authors: Kamal Abdallah , Li Baosong , Solayman Abdullah , Luo Shaohong , Kinloch Ian , Zheng Lianxi , Liao Kin
Published: December 2024

Acquiring robust 2D material-based thin films entails root analysis of the multiple parameters affecting their mechanical performance. This work reviews the different factors impacting the mechanical properties of thin films composed of 2D materials.
Chemistry and biology of natural stilbenes: an update
Authors: Zhou Lipeng , Cai Xinyu , Wang Ying , Yang Jianbo , Wang Yadan , Deng Jialing , Ye Danni , Zhang Lanzhen , Liu Yue , Ma Shuangcheng
Published: December 2024

Stilbenes, an emblematic group of polyphenols, have attracted the attention of numerous researchers owing to their intriguing polycyclic architectures and diverse bioactivities.
Photo-induced amidation/Smiles rearrangement of alkenes for synthesizing quaternary-carbon-containing succinyldiamides
Authors: Dai Yuyu , Niu Wei , Huang Jiapeng , Sun Jiarui , Xu Xiangsheng
Published: December 2024

A novel, mild, and environmentally friendly method was developed for the synthesis of quaternary-carbon-containing succinyldiamides. This method was found to be compatible with many substrates.
Photoinduced copper-catalyzed three-component alkylarylation of alkenes involving C–S bond cleavage of sulfonium salts
Authors: Chen Hui , Shang Xuan , Jiang Nan , Zhou Quan , Tang Ke-Wen , Zhong Long-Jin , Liu Yu
Published: December 2024

A novel visible light-induced copper catalysis intramolecular 1,2-alkylarylation of vinylarenes with cyclic sulfonium salts and nucleophiles via selective C–S bonds cleavage to construct thioether-containing 1,1-diarylalkanes is presented.
Fabrication and characterisation of a flexible thermoelectric generator using PANI/graphite/bismuth telluride composites
Authors: P A Yoshitha , Shankar Manasa. R. , Prabhu A. N. , Nayak Ramakrishna , Rao Ashok , Poojitha G.
Published: December 2024

Fabricated FTEG.
Tunable band alignment and large power conversion efficiency in a two-dimensional InS/ZnIn2S4 heterostructure
Authors: Liu Hui-Ying , Lin Heng-Fu , Xu Lu-Ya , Hou Ting-Ping , Liu Nan-Shu
Published: December 2024

An InS/ZnIn2S4 heterostructure was designed, and its electronic and photovoltaic properties were systematically investigated.
Three-dimensional carbon coated and high mass-loaded NiO@Ni foam anode with high specific capacity for lithium ion batteries
Authors: Issatayev Nurbolat , Abdumutaliyeva Diana , Tashenov Yerbolat , Yeskozha Dossym , Seipiyev Adilkhan , Bakenov Zhumabay , Nurpeissova Arailym
Published: December 2024

Design and synthesis of carbon-coated NiO@Ni foam as a high-performance anode for next-generation lithium-ion batteries.
Integrating 3D-printed hydrogels and polymeric nanofibers in a double-layered transdermal patch for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Elshabrawy Hend A. , Abo Dena Ahmed S. , Sobhy Mohamed H. , El-Sherbiny Ibrahim M.
Published: December 2024

A double layer nanostructure-based transdermal patch is proposed to alleviate the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.
An oxidorhenium(v) complex with an electron-withdrawing ligand: benefits and drawbacks for a dual role catalyst
Authors: Gradenegger A. , Schachner J. A. , Belaj F. , Mösch-Zanetti N. C.
Published: December 2024

Electron-withdrawing ligands increase epoxidation activity, but decrease oxyanion reduction catalysis.
Beyond templates: exploring uncharted territory in anisotropic gold nanostructure-oligomer composites synthesis and electrocatalytic performance towards environmental pollutants
Authors: Mangala Gowri Veeramani , Panleam Theelada , Giri Jayant , Srithongkul Nattapong , Shanmugaraj Krishnamoorthy , Fatehmulla Amanullah , Thongmee Sirikanjana
Published: December 2024

The synthesis and electrocatalytic activity of oligo 3-amino-5-mercapto-1,2,4-triazole (oligo AMTa) based gold nanostructures (AuNS) with excellent colloidal stability is demonstrated via a simple, adaptable and template-free technique.
Hierarchical NiCo2O4@CuS composite electrode with enhanced surface area for high-performance hybrid supercapacitors
Authors: Muralee Gopi Chandu V. V. , Kulurumotlakatla Dasha Kumar , Raghavendra K. V. G. , Suneetha Maduru , Ramesh R.
Published: December 2024

Hierarchical NiCo2O4@CuS composite electrodes, synthesized via a hydrothermal method, exhibit superior electrochemical performance as battery-type electrode materials for supercapacitors, outperforming bare NiCo2O4.
A novel core–shell bimetallic ZrAl-MOF simultaneously boosting electrostatic attraction and ion exchange to eliminate excessive fluoride
Authors: Liu Zhiwei , Wang Jingjing , Liu Qian , Wang Liying , Cao Zhenzhu , Zhang Yongfeng
Published: December 2024

A porous metal–organic framework (MOF) is fabricated via the solvothermal approach and employed for the removal of fluoride ions from water.
Correction: Shape selective cracking of polypropylene on an H-MFI type zeolite catalyst with recovery of cyclooctane solvent
Authors: Fukumasa Tomohiro , Kawatani Yuya , Masuda Hiroki , Nakashita Ikuto , Hashiguchi Ryusei , Takemoto Masanori , Suganuma Satoshi , Tsuji Etsushi , Wakihara Toru , Katada Naonobu
Published: December 2024

Correction for ‘Shape selective cracking of polypropylene on an H-MFI type zeolite catalyst with recovery of cyclooctane solvent’ by Tomohiro Fukumasa et al., RSC Sustainability, 2025, https://doi.org/10.1039/d4su00484a.
High-conductivity, low-temperature sintering-compatible NASICON solid electrolyte for enhanced compositing with hard carbon electrode in all-solid-state batteries
Authors: Xun Bowei , Wang Jian , Sato Yukio , Hasegawa George , Akamatsu Hirofumi , Hayashi Katsuro
Published: December 2024

Enabling hard carbon anode material to perform effectively in a safe and robust all-inorganic solid-state system.
Correction: Growth of p/n-type BiFeO3 thin films for construction of a bilayer p–n junction for photodegradation of organic pollutants
Authors: Tu Hao-Yun , Qi Xiaoding
Published: December 2024

Correction for ‘Growth of p/n-type BiFeO3 thin films for construction of a bilayer p–n junction for photodegradation of organic pollutants' by Hao-Yun Tu et al., J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024, 12, 12752–12761, https://doi.org/10.1039/D4TA01615G.
Enhanced electrochemical performance by alumina-coated graphite anodes via spray coating
Authors: Zhao Pin-Yi , Choy Kwang-Leong , Song Yongyi , Zhang Shudong , Ma Rui
Published: December 2024

Enhanced cycling stability and rate capability of graphite anodes were achieved through scalable spray-coated alumina. This innovative method reduces electrolyte decomposition and improves performance in lithium-ion batteries.
Decoding archaea: The often forgotten third domain of life
Authors: Rao K C Vagdevi , Senapati Subhadip
Published: December 2024

All cellular organisms of the world are classified into three domains of life. It is unusual and quite surprising that most people, in general, are familiar with two domains of life (bacteria and eucarya), but not the third one (archaea). The reasons archaea are relatively unknown can be traced back to several factors. Unlike the other two domains, archaea were discovered only a few decades back (1977) and for a long time, they were mistakenly identified as bacteria. Moreover, we pay more attention to species that are either useful or harmful to us. Here lies the mystery with archaea. Even after almost 50 years since their discovery, we still have not understood the roles archaea play in our physiology, despite being a significant component of the microbial composition in our body. Though several benefits and health conditions have been linked with the archaeal species, no direct evidence has been obtained connecting archaea with the origin of any disease. This is a staggering observation in contrast with other well-known microbes. This article aims to explore answers about the roles of archaea and their potential pathogenic behaviour (or the lack of it) based on the research findings from the last 50 years.
A CNN‐transformer‐based unsupervised aware hierarchical network for medical image registration
Authors: Fang Bo , Wang Lisheng
Published: December 2024

Medical image registration is a fundamental and important technique in the field of medical image analysis. This study proposes a novel unsupervised end‐to‐end registration network, aiming to enable the model to actively acquire image features in the field of medical imaging with limited samples, which efficiently integrates multi‐scale features to achieve higher accuracy in registration. By utilizing region‐to‐region routing, this model actively preserves the most relevant features of the images, thereby improving training and learning efficiency. The model is evaluated by several publicly available datasets. The new network proposed in this study achieved the best registration accuracy among various advanced traditional and learning‐based methods.
High sensitivity multi‐channel digital receiver for wideband very weak signal direction‐finding classified by machine learning
Authors: Wu Chen , Low Michael
Published: December 2024

For weak signal detection with direction‐finding (DF), this article presents a new receiver design approach that combines our accumulatively increasing receiver sensitivity (AIRS) signal detection algorithm with the compressive‐sensing (CS)‐based DF‐array/algorithm. The former uses the concept of timeslot (TS)‐based signal threshold detection, whereas the latter employs a frequency‐independent array with randomly located elements, whose bandwidth (BW) largely determines the DF‐array BW. To estimate the direction of a signal, the AIRS algorithm generates the array steering vectors in each TS when the amplitude of any frequency bins exceeds the predetermined threshold of the TS. The aim of this paper is to demonstrate the ability of the new receiver to detect low probability of intercept radar signals with high DF accuracy, fine frequency resolution, and good time‐of‐arrival measurement resolution. To discriminate accurate emitter directions from many false estimations created by the DF‐array in very low signal‐to‐noise ratio environments, K‐means clustering was also applied. In a scenario, the frequency modulated signals from several 165‐mW X‐band radars were in the field of view of a 6‐element DF‐array. Simulation results show that the receiver can accurately estimate all the emitters' directions with root mean squared error of less than 1°, when the separation between the DF‐array and radars is about 100 km.
Physical properties of newly active asteroid 2010 LH15
Authors: Liu Bin , Li Cunhui , Mu Zhongcheng , Liu Xiaodong
Published: December 2024

The main-belt asteroid 2010 LH15 has been classified as an active asteroid, based on the recent discovery of dust activity from the archival images observed in 2010 and 2019. In this study, we perform measurements and dynamical modeling of the dust tail of the active asteroid 2010 LH15 using ZTF archival data from July 26 to August 31, 2019, with the derived physical properties from these relatively independent methods being compatible. The photometric results show that the radius of the nucleus is 1.11 ± 0.02 km, with an assumed geometric albedo of pr = 0.05, and the color index of the nucleus is relatively close to that of the ejecta around the nucleus, with a value of Hg − Hr = 0.44 ± 0.07. The effective scattering cross section increases at an average rate of 0.28 ± 0.02 km2 day−1 throughout the observation period, indicating that the activity of LH15 is likely driven by mechanisms capable of causing a sustained process like sublimation. Further dust dynamics modeling indicates that the dust activity initiates as early as about June 26, 2019, with the ejected dust particles having a radius ranging from 0.03 mm to 3 mm. The dependence of the terminal velocity on dust size is consistent with a sublimation-driven mechanism. If the orbit of LH15 is stable, its sublimation origin will extend the inner boundary of the water-ice-bearing region in the main asteroid belt inward by approximately 0.1 AU.
RheoVolution: An N-body simulator for tidally evolving bodies with complex rheological models
Authors: de Oliveira Vitor M. , Ragazzo Clodoaldo , Correia Alexandre C. M.
Published: December 2024

We present the open-source software RheoVolution, a computational implementation of the tidal theory based on the Association Principle, which provides a direct link from the adopted rheological model to the body’s deformation matrix in the time domain, thus facilitating the use of more complex rheological models. The code introduced here simulates the motion of N deformable bodies that remain slightly aspherical at all times. Each body can exhibit permanent triaxiality and possess its own rheology, ranging from a simple Maxwell rheology to complex rheologies equivalent to that of multilayered bodies with viscoelastic homogeneous layers. We showcase our program capabilities by reproducing different dynamical phenomena in the Solar System, namely, Earth’s Chandler wobble and true polar wander, Moon’s orbital drift, and Moon’s stabilization in the Cassini state 2.
FBQ 0951+2635: Time delay and structure of the main lensing galaxy
Authors: Shalyapin Vyacheslav N. , Goicoechea Luis J. , Ruiz-Hinojosa Eleana
Published: December 2024

As there is a long-standing controversy over the time delay between the two images of the gravitationally lensed quasar FBQ 0951+2635, we combined early and new optical light curves to robustly measure a delay of 13.5 ± 1.6 d (1σ interval). The new optical records covering the last 17 yr were also used to trace the long-timescale evolution of the microlensing variability. Additionally, the new time-delay interval and a relatively rich set of further observational constraints allowed us to discuss the mass structure of the main lensing galaxy at a redshift of 0.26. This lens system is of particular interest because the external shear from secondary gravitational deflectors is relatively low, but the external convergence is one of the highest known. When modelling the galaxy as a singular power-law ellipsoid without hypotheses or priors on the power-law index, ellipticity, and position angle, we demonstrated that its mass profile is close to isothermal, and there is a good agreement between the shape of the mass distribution and that of the near-IR light. We also recovered the true mass scale of the galaxy. Finally, a constant mass-to-light ratio model also worked acceptably well.
Low-frequency attenuation signal absorption performance of thin-film acoustic metamaterials
Authors: Xu Jingcheng , Chen Changzheng
Published: December 2024

Considering that thin film acoustic metamaterials have many special properties that natural materials and traditional materials do not possess, the low-frequency attenuation signal absorption performance of thin film acoustic metamaterials is studied. Prepare thin film acoustic metamaterials using raw materials such as silicone, calculate the basic law of low-frequency attenuation signal absorption based on this material, and determine the acoustic parameters of thin film acoustic metamaterials through calculation. Using the obtained acoustic parameters as inputs, a finite element numerical model of thin film acoustic metamaterials is used to analyze the low-frequency attenuation signal absorption performance under changes in porosity, thickness, density, size, tension, parameter error, and frame material and mass width in contact area with the thin film. The experimental results show that when the porosity is 95%, the thickness is 11, the variable length is 16 mm, the tension force is 160 N/m, and the contact area between the mass block and the film is 5.5 mm2, the absorption effect of low-frequency attenuation signals is the best. The frame material and elastic modulus have little effect on the absorption performance of the thin film acoustic material.
Sound pressure-dependent acoustic absorption by perforated rigid-frame porous materials
Authors: Cavalieri Théo , Van Damme Bart
Published: December 2024

Porous materials are one of the most common classes of sound absorbers for acoustic treatments. However, thin layers of these classical materials are not efficient at absorbing low-frequency sound waves, which is a practical shortcoming. Low-frequency absorption can be improved by perforated screens in combination with an air gap or a classical porous absorber, since they increase the overall tortuosity of the combined system. A less investigated, but in principle similar alternative to achieve high-tortuosity absorbers is perforating initially closed-cell foams. Yet, at high sound pressure levels (SPL), non-linearities of the surface impedance arise due to flow-separation in the vicinity of the perforations. Therefore, it is necessary to adapt existing porous material models for SPL-dependency which is illustrated here for the case of micro-perforated mineral foams. The proposed investigations are carried on experimentally, a foam sample is tested for flow-resistivity as well as for sound absorption at normal-incidence using impedance tube measurements. We furthermore observe and predict the change of effective fluid properties and Johnson-Champoux-Allard (JCA) parameters with respect to SPL. The most significant of them is the increase of static air-flow resistivity, which drastically changes the equivalent density of the porous medium, and has a negative effect on the sound absorption. The proposed model accurately predicts the change in acoustic absorption of rigidly-backed perforated porous treatments.
Imperfect interfaces characterization in a multilayered structure by means of an equivalent dynamic model
Authors: Auquier Nicolas , Ege Kerem , Gourdon Emmanuel
Published: December 2024

The research presented in this paper aims to demonstrate how imperfect interfaces influence the behavior of a multilayered structure. To achieve this, a dynamic equivalent model for multilayered panels is used, enabling the characterization of these interfaces using experimental data. This model, known as the Layer Wise (LW) model, incorporates imperfections in the interfaces through sliding displacement. To effectively validate the model against experimental measurements, an equivalence with a thin beam is established. Then the experimental methodology used for characterization is outlined, including the setup, considered samples, and data processing techniques. Specifically, the Corrected Force Analysis Technique (CFAT) is used, which is a robust method based on the equations of motion for thin plates or beams. This method, for the first time, allows obtaining broadband frequency results, facilitating dynamic monitoring of interface states in multilayers. The concurrently developed model enables the quantification of an interface parameter through experimental measurements. Finally, a detailed analysis of the results obtained through this methodology is provided, emphasizing the significant influence of imperfect interfaces on the dynamics of multilayered structures.
Effect of thermal exposure on the microstructure and mechanical behaviour of high-chromium steel studied using sub-sized specimens
Authors: Dlouhý Jaromír , Chvostová Eva , Rzepa Sylwia
Published: December 2024

Creep-resistant steel are one of the critical materials for the energetic industry. Increasing the creep resistance up to 650 °C is one of the high-priority tasks in the material science. Another important issue is a problematics of residual lifetime assessment. The residual lifetime is tied to microstructure development or mechanical property development, which can be measured during the lifetime. This paper deals with thermal exposure of experimental nitrogen-free steels, promising potential use up to the temperature 650 °C. Both mechanical properties and microstructure evolution were followed during exposure at 650 °C for as long as 5000 h. Mechanical properties were measured at the exposure temperature (by tensile testing) and also at room temperature (hardness measurement). A strong correlation was found between the high-temperature tensile strength and the room temperature hardness. The tensile strength dropped by 56 MPa or 29 MPa for the experimental steel during the 500 h exposure and this decrease was closely followed by the drop in hardness. This correlation opens way for a small-scale sample extraction, intended only for a metallography and harness measurement. Such change of analysis method would significantly reduce required sample dimensions by an order of magnitude comparing with a sample intended for miniaturized tensile tests or a small-punch testing.
Human Milk-Derived Fortifier to Reduce Hospital-Acquired Malnutrition in Uncomplicated Gastroschisis: A Case Report
Authors: Strle Anna , Reyes Sarah M. , Schmidt Megan , Lynch Mary Frances
Published: December 2024

Gastroschisis is one of the most common congenital gastrointestinal disorders, occurring in about one in 1,953 infants born each year in the United States. Infants with gastroschisis rely on total parenteral nutrition (TPN) preoperatively, and due to intestinal function and dysmotility issues, continue to face feeding challenges postclosure, including feeding intolerance and increased risk of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC). Postclosure, human milk-feeding is preferred over infant formula because of its associated reduced risk of feeding intolerance and NEC. However, unfortified human milk often falls short of meeting the increased metabolic demands of these postsurgical infants in the first few weeks of life, leading to hospital-acquired malnutrition (undernutrition) as TPN is weaned. We hypothesized that fortifying maternal milk with human milk-based fortifiers would mitigate the risk of hospital-acquired malnutrition while providing the tolerance benefits of an exclusive human milk diet, specifically by meeting the increased energy and protein demands of the immediate postsurgical infant as parenteral nutrition is weaned. The case report describes our unit's use of a human milk-based fortifier in an infant with uncomplicated gastroschisis and its positive effect on the patient's growth. Further research is warranted to assess the use of human milk-derived fortifiers to prevent hospital-acquired malnutrition after gastrointestinal surgery.
La versión en español del QuickDASH: Fiabilidad, error de medición, validez de constructo y sensibilidad para la evaluación de resultados en el Síndrome del Túnel Carpiano.
Authors: Rosales Roberto S. , Sambad-Rodriguez Hugo , Menaya-Fernandez Carmen , Martin-Hidalgo Yolanda , Reboso-Morales Luis
Published: December 2024

Objetivo El propósito de este artículo fue evaluar la confiabilidad, el error de medición, la validez de construcción y la respuesta de la versión española del QuickDASH para la evaluación de resultados en el síndrome del túnel carpiano (STC).

Métodos Una población total de 40 pacientes con diagnóstico de STC completó las versiones en español del QuickDASH, CTS-AL y EQ-5D una semana antes de la cirugía, el día previo a la cirugía y tres meses después de la intervención. La consistencia interna fue analizada mediante el coeficiente α de Cronbach. Para evaluar la concordancia absoluta se utilizaron el coeficiente de correlación intraclase (ICC2,1), el coeficiente de correlación de Lin (CCC) y el límite de acuerdo de Bland y Altman (LoA), mientras que el método no paramétrico de Passing-Bablok (P-B) se empleó para evaluar el sesgo sistemático constante y/o proporcional entre las mediciones. La precisión transversal se analizó con el error estándar de medición (SEM). La precisión longitudinal para el coeficiente de fiabilidad test-retest se analizó con el error estándar de la diferencia de medición (SEMdiff) y el cambio mínimo detectable al 90 % (MDC90) y al 95 % (MDC95) de nivel de confianza. Para evaluar la validez de construcción, se formuló la hipótesis de que el QuickDASH tendría una fuerte correlación positiva con el CTS-AL y una correlación negativa moderada con el índice EQ-5D, utilizando el coeficiente de correlación de Pearson (r) con un nivel de significancia de 0.05.

Resultados El coeficiente de Cronbach fue de 0.912. ICC2,1 y CCC mostraron una concordancia absoluta alta (0.868 y 0.738 respectivamente). La regresión P-B no mostró diferencias constantes y proporcionales significativas entre las dos administraciones del QuickDASH. El QuickDASH mostró una respuesta (ES = 2.1; SRM = 1.97) inferior al CTS-AL (ES = 3.53; SRM = 3.50) y superior al índice EQ-5D (ES = 0.78; SRM = 0.83).

Conclusión La versión española (España) del instrumento QuickDASH presentó buen nivel de confiabilidad, validez de construcción y respuesta para la evaluación de resultados en STC.
Borescopes as a Training Tool for Neuroendoscopy
Authors: Bakhsh Aman , Bajaj Jitin , Yadav Mansi , Patidar Jayant , Ratre Shailendra , Parihar Vijay S. , Yadav Yad R.
Published: December 2024

Background Neuroendoscopy is increasingly utilized as a minimally invasive method. Due to its challenging learning process, there is a pressing need for cost-efficient training methods for residents and fellows in these surgeries. One such modality is using borescopes as substitutes for endoscopes, which could prove beneficial in resource-limited settings. However, existing literature on the use of borescopes in surgical practice for training remains scarce.

Methods A thorough literature review was conducted to assess the applicability of borescopes. The search encompassed original articles, review articles, and randomized control trials on PubMed and Cochrane library. Studies were analyzed to evaluate the operability and limitations of borescopes in medical settings, considering factors such as light source, water resistance, sterility, camera quality, rigidity, ease of operation, and cost. This review also draws on practical experience using borescopes in endoscopic training, supplemented by feedback from neuroendoscopic fellows and consultants who have participated in our biannual workshops since March 2022.

Results The literature search yielded 522 articles, which, after applying the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, resulted in 61 studies meeting the inclusion criteria. Universal serial bus (USB) powered borescopes have been employed as substitutes for endoscopes in training models using practice models and cadavers, facilitating the study of neuroanatomy and aiding in airway visualization during laryngoscopy. Despite lower resolution and fidelity compared to traditional endoscopy towers, their versatility and enhanced functionality through attachments make them an affordable alternative for endoscopes, contributing to improved surgical proficiency.

Conclusion Borescopes have demonstrated potential as substitutes for endoscopes in training models, with positive feedback from trial participants suggesting broader applications in practice settings and possibly even clinics. This could ultimately enhance accessibility to endoscopic surgery, particularly in underserved regions.
Reparación artroscopica de anclaje con tornillo de sutura de desgarros del complejo de fibrocartílago triangular del lado radial: Una técnica quirúrgica novedosa
Authors: Ayik Ömer , Paksoy Ahmet Emre
Published: December 2024

Las roturas radiales (tipo 1d) son las lesiones del complejo del fibrocartílago triangular (TFCC) menos frecuentes. Los síntomas se presentan como dolor y limitación funcional de la muñeca. Presentamos el caso de un varón de 23 años que presentaba rotura radial del TFCC con síntomas tras una caída 6 meses antes. Tras el estudio adecuado, se trató mediante reparación artroscópica con un anclaje de tornillo con sutura. Estos tipos de roturas, que antes se reparaban con métodos abiertos, posteriormente se repararon a través del túnel transóseo abierto en el radio con asistencia artroscópica. Las técnicas descritas posteriormente hicieron modificaciones menores para formar el túnel más fácilmente. La técnica descrita en el presenta estudio puede ser un método alternativo en rupturas del lado radial del TFCC debido a algunas ventajas que proporciona en comparación con las técnicas de perforación previamente descritas