bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diagnostic value of colour Doppler ultrasound in differentiating malignant and benign nodules in thyroiditis background
Authors: Alamdaran Seyed Ali , Farshidianfar Melika , Masoumi Alireza , Rashed Masoud Mahdavi , Jaberi Masoumeh
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Differentiating malignant thyroid nodules from benign ones is challenging. Sonography is a non‐invasive modality that can be helpful in this regard and is far better than invasive methods like fine needle aspiration (FNA). This study aimed to assess the diagnostic value of colour Doppler ultrasonography in distinguishing malignant and benign nodules of thyroid gland.

Methods

The study involved patients with thyroiditis and thyroid nodules, who underwent sonography. Ultrasound findings were assessed. All the nodules were classified according to the FNA into malignant, follicular nodules and lymphatic. Then, sonography findings were compared between these three groups.

Results

There were 216 nodules, including 108 (50%) malignant nodules, 80 (37%) benign and 28 (13%) lymphatic follicles, were evaluated. Micro‐calcification was present in 50 (46.3%) malignant cases, 11 (13.7%) benign cases and 2 (2.1%) lymphatic follicles. Decreased or mixed vascularity was reported in 43 (69%) malignant nodules, 4 (5%) benign cases and 7 (25%) lymphatic follicles. Also, 9.7% and 42% of malignant and benign nodules had peripheral circular vascularity, respectively; however, none of the lymphatic follicles had this finding. With 89% specificity, 49% sensitivity and 73.5% accuracy, calcification with or without decreased or mixed vascularity could differentiate benign and malignant nodules.

Conclusion

Decreased or mixed vascularity with or without calcification shows high sensitivity in differentiating malignant and benign nodules.
Gut microbiota and inflammatory mediators differentiate IgE mediated and non‐IgE mediated cases of cow's milk protein at diagnosis
Authors: Castro Ana M. , Gutiérrez‐Díaz Isabel , Saiz María L. , Navarro Sandra , Suárez Marta , Carbajal Ignacio , García Águeda , Sariego Lydia , Toyos Paula , Rodríguez Silvia , Jiménez Santiago , González David , Molinos Cristina , Pérez David , Fernández Porfirio , Suárez‐Alvarez Beatriz , Margolles Abelardo , Díaz Juan J. , Delgado Susana
Published: February 2024

Objective

Analyze fecal and blood samples at point of diagnosis in IgE mediated cow's milk protein allergy (CMPA) and non‐IgE mediated (NIM)‐CMPA patients to look for potential new biomarkers.

Patients and Methods

Fourteen patients with IgE mediated CMPA and 13 with NIM‐CMPA were recruited in three hospitals in the north of Spain, and were compared with 25 infants from a control group of the same age range. To characterize intestinal microbiota, 16S rDNA gene and internal transcribed spacer amplicons of bifidobacteria were sequenced with Illumina technology. Fatty acids were analyzed by gas chromatography, meanwhile intestinal inflammation markers were quantified by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay and a multiplex system. Immunological analysis of blood was performed by flow cytometry.

Results

The fecal results obtained in the NIM‐CMPA group stand out. Among them, a significant reduction in the abundance of Bifidobacteriaceae and Bifidobacterium sequences with respect to controls was observed. Bifidobacterial species were also different, highlighting the lower abundance of Bifidobacterium breve sequences. Fecal calprotectin levels were found to be significantly elevated in relation to IgE mediated patients. Also, a higher excretion of IL‐10 and a lower excretion of IL‐1ra and platelet derived growth factor‐BB was found in NIM‐CMPA patients.

Conclusions

The differential fecal parameters found in NIM‐CMPA patients could be useful in the diagnosis of NIM food allergy to CM proteins.
Selective Generation of Luminescent Defects in Hexagonal Boron Nitride
Authors: Venturi Giacomo , Chiodini Stefano , Melchioni Nicola , Janzen Eli , Edgar James H. , Ronning Carsten , Ambrosio Antonio
Published: February 2024

Single photon emitters from atomic defects in crystals like hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) are vital for quantum technologies. Although various techniques are devised to obtain defects emission in hBN, simultaneous control over defects position, type, and emission spectrum has not been achieved yet. Here, ion implantation with 12C, 20Ne, and 69Ga are used to create a composite defects population with emission ≈820 nm. The correlation of Raman and photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy helps to identify the defects’ type. After selecting Ga as the ion species yielding the maximum emitter brightness, a strategy based on thermal annealing is developed to modify the composition of the induced defects. This results in an emitter ensemble with selected spectral properties, even when starting from different implantation conditions. Specifically, thermal annealing induces a defect transmutation from one type to another, shifting the emission wavelength from 820 to 625 nm. Moreover, sample patterning is combined with focused ion beam implantation and subsequent annealing in an efficient method to deterministically set the defects position as well as the PL spectral composition. These results offer a practical avenue to achieve in situ positioning and tuning of ensembles of emitters in hBN, promising for quantum information and sensing applications.
Phyllanthus emblica‐Loaded Cryogels for Improved Wound Care: Characterization and In Vitro Studies
Authors: Canatar İpek , Özdaş Sibel , Baydemir Peşint Gözde
Published: February 2024

Wound dressings developed by combining plant extracts with polymers have made a great progress in wound care treatment. One plant with remarkable healing properties isPhyllanthus emblica Linn(P. emblica), which is described as having potent antioxidant, antimicrobial and anti‐inflammatory properties. The aim of this study is to evaluate the biocompatibility ofP. emblica‐loaded polyvinyl alcohol/gelatin‐based cryogels (PVA/Gel/P.emblica) through cytotoxicity and proliferation tests in HaCaT cells and examine their potential in wound dressing applications. Accordingly, PVA/Gel/P.emblicacryogels are successfully synthesized and characterization studies and in vitro cell culture studies are performed. The swelling tests and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller analysis results show that swelling and surface area properties of cryogels increase with increasingP. emblicaamounts. Morphological results display that the cryogels have a dense, interconnected pore morphology and a macroporous structure. 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide, trypan blue exclusion, and live–dead assay results reveal thatP. emblicaenhances cell proliferation, increases cell number, and improves cell viability. Based on the scanning electron microscope, immunofluorescence, and Giemsa staining images, it is observed thatP. emblicapromotes cell attachment, proliferation, and penetration. These findings confirm that PVA/Gel/P.emblicacryogels are suitable for use as wound dressing materials and can be developed with further studies.
Bilinear Θ$\Theta$‐type Calderón–Zygmund operators and their commutators on product generalized fractional mixed Morrey spaces
Authors: Lu Guanghui , Tao Shuangping , Wang Miaomiao
Published: February 2024

The aim of this paper is to investigate the boundedness of the bilinear ‐type Calderón–Zygmund operator and its commutator on the product of generalized fractional mixed Morrey spaces. Under assumption that the positive and increasing functions defined on satisfy doubling conditions, we prove that the bilinear ‐type Calderón–Zygmund operator is bounded from the product of generalized fractional mixed Morrey spaces into spaces , where , , , for , and for . Furthermore, the boundedness of the commutator formed by and on spaces is also obtained.
Dependence of surface dose on atomic number in megavoltage photon beams
Authors: Khan Ahtesham Ullah , Das Indra J.
Published: February 2024

Background

Surface dose in megavoltage photon radiotherapy has a significant clinical impact on the skin‐sparing effect. In previously published works, it was established that the presence of medium atomic number (Z) absorbers, such as tin, decreases the surface dose. It was concluded that high‐Z absorbers, such as lead, increase the surface dose, relative to medium‐Z absorbers, due to the increased contributions from photoelectrons and electron‐positron pairs.

Purpose

The purpose of this investigation is to revisit these conclusions in the context of photon beams from modern linacs.

Methods

A metric estimating the relative intensity of charged particles emitted in the forward direction, , was proposed using cross‐sections for the photon interactions. The values were calculated for various absorbers using energy spectra of 6 and 10 MV photon beams from a Varian TrueBeam linac. Monte Carlo (MC) simulations were performed using TOPAS MC code to calculate the surface dose for various absorbers. Surface dose measurements were performed with 6 and 10 MV photon beams with tin and lead absorbers.

Results

The values were found to decrease as a function of Z for both 6 and 10 MV photon beams indicating that the surface dose from electrons emitted in the forward direction consistently decreases with increasing Z. With the increasing Z of the absorbers, both experimental and MC‐calculated surface dose decreased without exhibiting a minimum at medium‐Z absorbers. The surface dose for lead and tin was determined to be within 1% of each other for both 6 and 10 MV photon beams using MC simulations and experimental measurements. Therefore, no statistically significant difference in surface dose was found between the tin and lead absorbers disproving the presence of any minima in the surface dose versus the Z curve as has been reported in the literature.

Conclusions

Surface dose for modern photon beams can be reduced using both medium and high Z absorbers since a consistent decrease in surface dose was found with increasing absorber Z.
Multi‐omics analyses uncover metabolic signatures and gene expression profiles of interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome
Authors: Yi Xianyanling , Li Jin , Han Zeyu , Zhang Tianyi , Liao Dazhou , Lv Xiaoyan , Ai Jianzhong
Published: February 2024

Background and Objective

We explore molecular and metabolic pathways involved in interstitial cystitis (IC) with integrating multi‐omics analysis for identifying potential diagnostic and therapeutic targets.

Methods

Mouse models of IC/bladder pain syndrome (BPS) were established by intraperitoneal injection of cyclophosphamide and bladder tissue samples were collected for metabolomics and transcriptome analysis.

Results

We found a total of 82 and 145 differential metabolites in positive ion modes and negative ion modes, respectively. Glycerophospholipid metabolism, choline metabolism in cancer, and nucleotide metabolism pathways were significantly enriched in the IC/BPS group. Transcriptome analysis demonstrated that 1069 upregulated genes and 1087 downregulated genes were detected. Importantly, the stronger enrichment for cell cycle pathway was observed in IC/BPS than that in normal bladder tissue, which may be involved in the process of bladder remodeling. Moreover, the inflammatory response and inflammatory factors related pathways were enriched in the IC/BPS group.

Conclusions

Our findings provide critical directions for further exploration of the molecular pathology underlying IC/BPS.
Disentangling the complexity of human–nature interactions
Authors: Bennett Elena M. , Reyers Belinda
Published: February 2024

Human–nature interactions have been identified as an important leverage point for achieving sustainability. Processes to recognize, protect, improve and reimagine human–nature interactions will be central to shift the world to more sustainable and equitable pathways and futures.

In the context of the interconnected and rapidly changing Anthropocene, work on human–nature interactions must move beyond dominant linear assumptions of a relatively simple and easily and predictably manipulated world to acknowledge and engage with the complex, dynamic, asymmetrical and unequal nature of the interactions connecting people and nature.

Based on three key features highlighted by the study of complex social–ecological systems (SES)—that these systems are relational, open and dynamic—we propose three new directions for the study and management of human–nature interactions that can help to acknowledge and disentangle the globally intertwined and dynamic nature of these interactions.

These features suggest new directions and foci for sustainability science: the inseparable and relational qualities of the interactions between people and nature; the cross‐scale nature of these relationships; and the continuously evolving and changing form of these relationships.

To bridge the gap between the theory of complex, inseparable and unequal human–nature interactions and the reductionist tendencies in research and practice, SES research raises opportunities to connect local action and global learning; to mobilize and develop new cross‐scale and relational capacities to encourage synergies and avoid trade‐offs; and to explore, experiment and learn our way forward onto more sustainable and equitable pathways.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Synthesis and properties of modified thermoplastic polyimide films with good dielectric properties at high frequency and enhanced thermal stability via incorporation of rigid ester and biphenyl structural units
Authors: Han Shujun , Qi Yuexin , Zhi Xinxin , Ren Xi , Wang Zhenzhong , He Zhibin , Yang Changxu , Yu Haifeng , Liu Jingang
Published: February 2024

A series of ester‐ and fluoro‐containing thermoplastic polyimide (PI) films, PEsI‐1 ~ PEsI‐4 have been prepared by the two‐step thermal imidization procedure via the soluble poly(amic acid) (PEsAA) precursors from the copolymerization of four monomers, including the dianhydrides of bisphenol A dibenzoate‐3,3′,4,4′‐tetracarboxylic acid dianhydride (TMBPA) and 3,3′, 4,4′‐biphenyl tetracarboxylic acid dianhydride (BPDA) and the diamine monomers of 4‐aminophenyl‐4′‐ aminobenzoate (APAB) and 2,2′‐bis(trifluoromethyl)‐4,4′‐diamino biphenyl (TFMB) in the polar aprotic solvent of N‐methyl‐2‐pyrrolidinone (NMP). The PI films obtained from the high‐temperature dehydration of the PEsAA solutions exhibited the good thermal stabilities with the glass transition temperatures (Tg) over 269°C, the 5% weight loss temperatures (T5%) higher than 480°C, and the linear coefficients of thermal expansion (CTE) values in the range of 17.7 × 10−6/K–33.6 × 10−6/K in the temperature range of 50–250°C. Meanwhile, the PI films showed good thermoplasticity in the dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) tests, in which the storage modulus of the PI films dropped sharply in the temperature range of glass transition of the polymers. At last, the PI films exhibited the good dielectric properties with the breakdown voltages (Vb) over 5200 V, the dielectric strength (Ds) higher than 210 V/μm, the dielectric constants (Dk) in the range of 3.26 ~ 3.32 at the frequency of 10 GHz, and the dielectric dissipation factors (Df) of 0.0038 ~ 0.0047. Compared with the commonly used PEsI‐ref film for high‐frequency flexible copper clad laminates (FCCL), the currently developed PI films exhibited the obviously increased Tg values, decreased CTE values, and comparable dielectric properties.
Analysis of secreted small extracellular vesicles from activated human microglial cell lines reveals distinct pro‐ and anti‐inflammatory proteomic profiles
Authors: Niu Xueming , Zhang Zhen , Zhou Quan , Wuethrich Alain , Lobb Richard , Trau Matt
Published: February 2024

Microglia are a specialized population of innate immune cells located in the central nervous system. In response to physiological and pathological changes in their microenvironment, microglia can polarize into pro‐inflammatory or anti‐inflammatory phenotypes. A dysregulation in the pro‐/anti‐inflammatory balance is associated with many pathophysiological changes in the brain and nervous system. Therefore, the balance between microglia pro‐/anti‐inflammatory polarization can be a potential biomarker for the various brain pathologies. A non‐invasive method of detecting microglia polarization in patients would have promising clinical applications. Here, we perform proteomic analysis of small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) derived from microglia cells to identify sEVs biomarkers indicative of pro‐inflammatory and anti‐inflammatory phenotypic changes. sEVs were isolated from microglia cell lines under different inflammatory conditions and analyzed by proteomics by liquid chromatography with mass spectrometry. Our findings provide the potential roles of sEVs that could be related to the pathogenesis of various brain diseases.
Tunable Enhanced Second‐Harmonic Generation in InP‐InAsP Quantum Well Nanomembranes
Authors: Su Zhicheng , Yan Jingshi , Wang Naiyin , Jagadish Chennupati , Neshev Dragomir , Tan Hark Hoe
Published: February 2024

Second‐harmonic generation (SHG) offers a convenient approach for infrared‐to‐visible light conversion in tunable nanoscale light sources and optical communication. Semiconductor nanostructures offer rich possibilities to tailor their nonlinear optical properties. In this study, strong second‐harmonic generation in InP nanomembranes with InAsP quantum well (QW) is demonstrated. Compared with bulk InP, up to 100 times enhancement of SHG is achieved in the short‐wave infrared range. This enhancement is shown to be predominantly induced by the resonance‐enhanced absorption and quantum confinement of fundamental wavelengths in the InAsP QW. The thin nanomembrane structure will also provide nanocavity enhancement for second‐harmonic wavelengths. The enhanced SHG peak wavelengths can also be tuned by changing the QW composition. These findings provide an effective strategy for enhancing and manipulating the second‐harmonic generation in semiconductor quantum‐confined nanostructures for on‐chip all‐optical applications.
Compact Model and Detailed Balance Limit for a Dual n‐Type Direct Z‐Scheme Heterojunction
Authors: Lauwaert Johan , Jacob Nithin Thomas
Published: February 2024

This paper presents a comprehensive study on a compact model and the detailed balance limit for a dual n‐type direct Z‐scheme heterojunction. The compact model developed in this work describes the current–voltage (IV) characteristics of the staggered heterojunction under one‐sided illumination. The model incorporates charge neutrality, surface recombination, thermionic emission over the barrier, and surface potentials. By considering these factors, the IV curve of the staggered heterojunction is captured, shedding light on the charge transfer and separation processes within the device. The heterojunction device consists of two photosystems: photosystem one (PSI) with a wide band gap and photosystem two (PSII) with a narrow band gap. Furthermore, the paper establishes the detailed balance limit for the efficiency of the dual n‐type direct Z‐scheme heterojunction. The maximum achievable efficiency, estimated to be 11.4%, is determined by the interplay between the band gap of PSII and the empirical relation for the maximum barrier for electrons leaving PSII. This detailed balance limit represents the highest efficiency that can be attained, accounting for carrier generation, recombination, and charge transfer mechanisms. The compact model and the derived detailed balance limit provide insights for designing and improving the performance of direct Z‐scheme heterojunctions.
Optimizing Interplanar Spacing, Oxygen Vacancies and Micromorphology via Lithium‐Ion Pre‐Insertion into Ammonium Vanadate Nanosheets for Advanced Cathodes in Aqueous Zinc‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Chen Ji , Zhai Yijun , Li Yangjie , Zhang Xiaoyue , Zhang Xiaoqin , Chen Yuxiang , Zeng Yuxiao , Wu Xingqiao , Zheng Qiaoji , Lam Kwok‐Ho , Tan Xin , Lin Dunmin
Published: February 2024

Ammonium vanadates, featuring an N─H···O hydrogen bond network structure between NH4+ and V─O layers, have become popular cathode materials for aqueous zinc‐ion batteries (AZIBs). Their appeal lies in their multi‐electron transfer, high specific capacity, and facile synthesis. However, a major drawback arises as Zn2+ ions tend to form bonds with electronegative oxygen atoms between V─O layers during cycling, leading to irreversible structural collapse. Herein, Li+ pre‐insertion into the intermediate layer of NH4V4O10 is proposed to enhance the electrochemical activity of ammonium vanadate cathodes for AZIBs, which extends the interlayer distance of NH4V4O10 to 9.8 Å and offers large interlaminar channels for Zn2+ (de)intercalation. Moreover, Li+ intercalation weakens the crystallinity, transforms the micromorphology from non‐nanostructured strips to ultrathin nanosheets, and increases the level of oxygen defects, thus exposing more active sites for ion and electron transport, facilitating electrolyte penetration, and improving electrochemical kinetics of electrode. In addition, the introduction of Li+ significantly reduces the bandgap by 0.18 eV, enhancing electron transfer in redox reactions. Leveraging these unique advantages, the Li+ pre‐intercalated NH4V4O10 cathode exhibits a high reversible capacity of 486.1 mAh g−1 at 0.5 A g−1 and an impressive capacity retention rate of 72% after 5,000 cycles at 5 A g−1.
Smartphone‐Based Free‐to‐Total Prostate Specific Antigen Ratio Detection System Using a Colorimetric Reaction Integrated with Proximity‐Induced Bio‐Barcode and CRISPR/Cas12a Assay
Authors: Luo Bin , Zhou Juan , Zhan Xiaohui , Ying Binwu , Lan Fang , Wu Yao
Published: February 2024

The free‐to‐total prostate‐specific antigen (f/t‐PSA) ratio is of great significance in the accurate diagnosis of prostate cancer. Herein, a smartphone‐based detection system is reported using a colorimetric reaction integrated with proximity‐induced bio‐barcode and the clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/Cas12a assay for f/t‐PSA ratio detection. DNA/antibody recognition probes are designed to bind f‐PSA or t‐PSA and induce the release of the DNA bio‐barcode. The CRISPR/Cas12a system is activated by the DNA bio‐barcode to release Ag+ from the C‐Ag+‐C structure of the hairpin DNA. The released Ag+ is used to affect the tetramethylbenzidine (TMB)‐H2O2‐based colorimetric reaction catalyzed by Pt nanoparticles (NPs), as the peroxidase‐like activity of the Pt NPs can be efficiently inhibited by Ag+. A smartphone with a self‐developed app is used as an image reader and analyzer to analyze the colorimetric reaction and provide the results. A limit of detection of 0.06 and 0.04 ng mL−1 is achieved for t‐PSA and f‐PSA, respectively. The smartphone‐based method showed a linear response between 0.1 and 100 ng mL−1 of t‐PSA or f‐PSA. In tests with clinical samples, the smartphone‐based method successfully diagnosed prostate cancer patients from benign prostatic hyperplasia patients and healthy cases with high sensitivity and specificity.
Novel Lignin‐Functionalized Waterborne Epoxy Composite Coatings with Excellent Anti‐Aging, UV Resistance, and Interfacial Anti‐Corrosion Performance
Authors: Feng Pingxian , Wang Huan , Gan Shiyu , Liao Bokai , Niu Li
Published: February 2024

Developing high‐performance lignin anti‐corrosive waterborne epoxy (WEP) coatings is conducive to the advancement of environmentally friendly coatings and the value‐added utilization of lignin. In this work, a functionalized biomass waterborne epoxy composite coating is prepared using quaternized sodium lignosulfonate (QLS) as a functional nanofiller for mild carbon steel protection. The results showed that QLS has excellent dispersion and interface compatibility within WEP, and its abundant phenolic hydroxyl, sulfonate, quaternary ammonium groups, and nanoparticle structure endowed the coating with excellent corrosion inhibition and superior barrier properties. The corrosion inhibition efficiency of 100 mg L−1 QLS in carbon steel immersed in a 3.5 wt% NaCl solution reached 95.76%. Furthermore, the coating maintained an impedance modulus of 2.29 × 106 Ω cm2 (|Z|0.01 Hz) after being immersed for 51 days in the high‐salt system. In addition, QLS imparted UV‐blocking properties and thermal‐oxygen aging resistance to the coating, as evidenced by a |Z|0.01 Hz of 1.04 × 107 Ω cm2 after seven days of UV aging while still maintaining a similar magnitude as before aging. The green lignin/WEP functional coatings effectively withstand the challenging outdoor environment characterized by high salt concentration and intense UV radiation, thereby demonstrating promising prospects for application in metal protection.
Realizing a Superior Conversion Efficiency of ≈11.3% in the Group IV‐VI Thermoelectric Module
Authors: Cheng Jinxuan , Yin Li , Wang Xinyu , Duan Sichen , Zhao Peng , Ma Xiaojing , Li Xiaofang , Bao Xin , Zhi Shizhen , Mao Jun , Cao Feng , Zhang Qian
Published: February 2024

GeTe‐based materials exhibit superior thermoelectric performance, while the development of power generation devices has mainly been limited by the challenge of designing the interface due to the phase transition in GeTe. In this work, via utilizing the low‐temperature nano‐Ag sintering technique and screening suitable Ti‐Al alloys, a reliable interface with excellent connection performance has been realized. The Ti‐Al intermetallic compounds effectively inhibit the diffusion process at Ti‐34Al/Ge0.9Sb0.1Te interface. Thus, the thickness of the interfacial reaction layer only increases by ≈2.08 µm, and the interfacial electrical contact resistivity remains as low as ≈15.2 µΩ cm2 even after 30 days of isothermal aging at 773 K. A high conversion efficiency of ≈11.3% has been achieved in the GeTe/PbTe module at a hot‐side temperature of 773 K and a cold‐side temperature of 300 K. More importantly, the module's performance and the reliability of the interface remain consistently stable throughout 50 thermal cycles and long‐term aging. This work promotes the application of high‐performance GeTe materials for thermoelectric power generation.
Functions as a service for distributed deep neural network inference over the cloud‐to‐things continuum
Authors: Bueno Altair , Rubio Bartolomé , Martín Cristian , Díaz Manuel
Published: February 2024

The use of serverless computing has been gaining popularity in recent years as an alternative to traditional Cloud computing. We explore the usability and potential development benefits of three popular open‐source serverless platforms in the context of IoT: OpenFaaS, Fission, and OpenWhisk. To address this we discuss our experience developing a serverless and low‐latency Distributed Deep Neural Network (DDNN) application. Our findings indicate that these serverless platforms require significant resources to operate and are not ideal for constrained devices. In addition, we archived a 55% improvement compared to Kafka‐ML's performance under load, a framework without dynamic scaling support, demonstrating the potential of serverless computing for low‐latency applications.
Experimentelle und numerische Untersuchungen der lokalen Spannungen in Kranbahnträgern nahe Quersteifen
Authors: Kettler Markus , Zauchner Paul , Jungwirth Michael , Kampleitner Andreas , Unterweger Harald
Published: February 2024

Geschweißte Kranbahnträger mit größeren Steghöhen werden in der Praxis üblicherweise mit zusätzlichen Quersteifen zwischen den Auflagern ausgeführt. Dadurch wird die Beultragfähigkeit des Stegs erhöht und die Verdrehung des Obergurts zufolge exzentrischer Radlasteinleitung begrenzt. Allerdings werden dadurch in Hinblick auf eine möglichst kerbarme Radlasteinleitung in den Trägersteg zusätzliche kritische Konstruktionsdetails im Bereich der an den Obergurt angeschweißten Quersteifen erzeugt, die im Nachweis gegen Ermüdungsversagen zu berücksichtigen sind. Darüber hinaus finden sich in DIN EN 1993‐6 derzeit keine Regeln zur Berechnung der lokalen Spannungen im Steg und in den Quersteifen für Radlasteinleitung im Nahbereich der Quersteifen. Daher werden in diesem Beitrag sowohl Laborversuche als auch FE‐Berechnungen präsentiert, welche die lokalen Spannungen in unmittelbarer Nähe von Quersteifen im Detail untersuchen. Die ermittelten Spannungen werden anschließend für vergleichende Ermüdungsnachweise an den nun maßgebenden Konstruktionsdetails im Verhältnis zu entsprechenden Nachweisen ohne Berücksichtigung des Quersteifeneinflusses verwendet. Auf Basis der gewonnenen Ergebnisse werden Defizite der aktuellen Vorgehensweise aufgezeigt und Empfehlungen für die Bemessungspraxis abgeleitet.
Accidental isoniazid toxicosis in a dog
Authors: Haritha Gurram S , Ramesh Puttchakayala , Prakash Kumar Busakala , Manoj Kumar Karnam , Srilatha Bethapudi
Published: February 2024

A 7‐month‐old, male, spitz dog was presented with history of accidental ingestion of isoniazid tablets. On presentation, signs of seizures, involuntary defecation and urination, vomiting and excess salivation were noticed. Clinical examination revealed tachycardia, ataxia, increased respiratory rate and severe dehydration. Therapy was aimed at stabilisation of the dog with fluid therapy, anti‐convulsants and antidote pyridoxine (at the dose rate of 60 mg/kg bodyweight). The clinical signs subsided in 4 hours of therapy. Complete blood profile revealed mild neutrophilia, hypoproteinemia, elevated blood urea nitrogen, creatinine and alkaline phosphatase. After 24 hours of therapy, apart from vomiting no other clinical signs were noticed. Fluid therapy along with anti‐emetics, proton pump inhibitors and oral pyridoxine was administered for 2 more days following first day. The dog showed complete recovery on Day 3 of therapy, and the biochemical values were back to normal on seventh day. The present case reports a dog with accidental oral ingestion of isoniazid, its clinical signs and therapeutic management.
Scoping review: The terminology used to describe major abdominal surgical procedures
Authors: Courtney Alona , Clymo Jonathon , Dorudi Yasmin , Moonesinghe Suneetha Ramani , Dorudi Sina
Published: February 2024

Background

Major abdominal surgery (MAS) can have a profound impact on the patient but there is currently no consensus as to which surgical procedures constitute MAS. The main objective of this work is to ascertain the terminology used to describe MAS procedures and to apply these findings in order to propose a definition of MAS.

Methods

The following databases were searched: Ovid MEDLINE (R) ALL, Embase Classic and Embase (via OvidSP), Global Health (via OvidSP), Health Management Information Consortium (via OvidSP), APA PsycInfo (via OvidSP), PubMed and Web of Science. Original research articles, published between 1980 and April 26, 2022 that contained a description of MAS procedure were included in this study. Article screening and data extraction was undertaken independently by 3 authors. Content analysis was performed to identify key terminology used to describe MAS.

Results

Five thousand six hundred and sixty three articles were identified, of which 767 underwent full‐text review and 312 were included in the scoping review. Content analysis resulted in 4 main categories: (1) pre‐operative factors, (2) intraoperative factors, (3) operation‐related factors, (4) post‐operative factors. Operation‐related factors was the predominant category (1137 references coded). The gastrointestinal resection made the vast majority of the references coded (591).

Conclusions

Based on these results, the term “major abdominal surgery” should be defined as an intra‐peritoneal operation with no primary involvement of the thorax, involving either luminal resection and/or resection of a solid organ associated with the gastrointestinal tract. However, further work is required to verify this definition using real world data.
Philosophy of the Earth Sciences
Authors: Turner Derek D.
Published: February 2024

Over the last 20 years or so, much work on the philosophy of the geosciences has privileged epistemological questions about confirmation, explanation, and underdetermination. Taking a cue from nineteenth-century geologist Edward Hitchcock’s reflections on his own practice, this chapter argues that philosophers should broaden their understanding of geoscientific practice to include its esthetic as well as its epistemic dimensions. Recent work in environmental esthetics – particularly Arnold Berleant’s esthetics of engagement and Allen Carlson’s scientific cognitivism – can help elucidate the esthetic aspects of the earth sciences. This broadening of our understanding of the values embedded in scientific practice could also help reinvigorate the relationship between philosophy and history of the geosciences.
Preparing for a Digital Steel Industry: What Challenge for Skills Formation Systems?
Authors: Antonazzo Luca , Stroud Dean , Weinel Martin
Published: February 2024

This chapter draws on data collected under the ESSA project and on institutional literature to illustrate emerging skills needs in the steel industry, and to reflect on the effectiveness of vocational education and training (VET) reforms to meet those needs. VET systems represent a central plank of skills formation institutions. Here, we focus on recent VET reforms in three European countries (Germany, Italy and the United Kingdom) to remark on a potential disconnect between expectations and outcomes. Whilst the given reforms nominally address the skills and training arrangements deemed as necessary for the industry’s technological transformation, we argue that their effectiveness relies lastly on their fit (or complementarity) with pre-existing institutions and with the institutional model in which they occur. This has implications for how attempts to reform national skills formation institutions will support the future steel industry in meeting its challenges.
Conclusion: Recasting the Future of the European Steel Industry
Authors: Akyazi Tugce , Goti Aitor , Alberdi Elisabete , Behrend Clara , Schröder Antonius Johannes , Colla Valentina , Stroud Dean , Antonazzo Luca , Weinel Martin
Published: February 2024

When the European Coal and Steel Community (ECSC) was established in 1952 to unite European countries economically and politically to secure long-lasting peace, steel production was one of the two main strategic industries in which a common European project was first launched. Today, the steel industry still represents a critical asset for the European economy and contributes to the development of a huge number of transforming industries, in particular the automotive, construction and infrastructure, robotics, advanced machinery and tools, and household appliances sectors. During the period till the end of the ECSC in 2002 and then beyond into the new millennium, the steel industry in Europe more broadly and within the EU has gone through significant waves of expansion, consolidation, modernisation, rationalisation and shrinkage, and it is currently facing tremendous pressures and challenges, including the twin-challenges that form the focus of this volume. In this conclusion to the present collection, we offer our broader reflections on the industry.
The Impact of the New Technologies and the EU Climate Objectives on the Steel Industry
Authors: Branca Teresa Annunziata , Colla Valentina , Murri Maria Maddalena , Schröder Antonius Johannes
Published: February 2024

Over the last years, an ever-increasing level of automation has been observed in the steelworks. In this context, the European steel industry is committed to integrating new technologies in the production chain to evolve towards the Industry 4.0 paradigm and even beyond. The application of digital technologies aims at optimising the integration of production units to enhance product quality, process flexibility, energy and resource efficiency, environmental sustainability and productivity in the whole sector. This chapter aims at providing an overview on the challenges related to the integration of digital technologies as well as to the EU climate objectives in the European steel sector. Starting from a state-of-the-art analysis, including the progresses achieved in the field over the last few decades, this chapter presents some of the outcomes of the study carried out within the Erasmus+ industry-driven project ‘European Steel Skills Alliance (ESSA)’. The impact of digital technologies on the workforce, the technological transformation and the EU climate objectives are analysed. Moreover, the results of an analysis concerning the level of automation in the European steelworks and the digital technologies in supporting the social innovation are discussed.
Robotic Systems in the European Steel Industry: State-of-Art and Use Cases
Authors: Vannucci Marco , Matino Ruben , Murri Maria Maddalena , Piancaldini Roberto , Schröder Antonius Johannes , Stroud Dean
Published: February 2024

The current digital and technological transformation affecting the European steel industry is carried out through the continuous and progressive application of Key Enabling Technologies (KETs) according to the Industry 4.0 paradigm. Among these technologies, robotic systems and autonomous vehicles (UAV/UGV), are increasingly applied in steel plants with the aim of improving health and safety in workplaces. Dangerous operations related to monitoring, maintenance and safety are often performed by using such systems in order to avoid workers’ exposure to accidents and injuries. Therefore, robotic applications and autonomous vehicles, which are suitably equipped with artificial vision and innovative sensors, are integrated in the daily operations by supporting humans and interacting with them according to well defined procedures, in order to minimise potential and dangerous events. The present chapter assesses the state-of-art for this technology, by analysing both the literature and European-funded projects, and investigates two specific use-cases related to different applications in steel plants with specific focus on the workforce impact in terms of implications in work organisation and operational procedure. Moreover, changed work patterns (e.g., behaviours, tasks, decision-making, training, skills, etc.) are also discussed considering human experience as a fundamental aspect.
Platelet C3G: a key player in vesicle exocytosis, spreading and clot retraction
Authors: Fernández-Infante Cristina , Hernández-Cano Luis , Herranz Óscar , Berrocal Pablo , Sicilia-Navarro Carmen , González-Porras José Ramón , Bastida José María , Porras Almudena , Guerrero Carmen
Published: February 2024

C3G is a Rap1 GEF that plays a pivotal role in platelet-mediated processes such as angiogenesis, tumor growth, and metastasis by modulating the platelet secretome. Here, we explore the mechanisms through which C3G governs platelet secretion. For this, we utilized animal models featuring either overexpression or deletion of C3G in platelets, as well as PC12 cell clones expressing C3G mutants. We found that C3G specifically regulates α-granule secretion via PKCδ, but it does not affect δ-granules or lysosomes. C3G activated RalA through a GEF-dependent mechanism, facilitating vesicle docking, while interfering with the formation of the trans-SNARE complex, thereby restricting vesicle fusion. Furthermore, C3G promotes the formation of lamellipodia during platelet spreading on specific substrates by enhancing actin polymerization via Src and Rac1-Arp2/3 pathways, but not Rap1. Consequently, C3G deletion in platelets favored kiss-and-run exocytosis. C3G also controlled granule secretion in PC12 cells, including pore formation. Additionally, C3G-deficient platelets exhibited reduced phosphatidylserine exposure, resulting in decreased thrombin generation, which along with defective actin polymerization and spreading, led to impaired clot retraction. In summary, platelet C3G plays a dual role by facilitating platelet spreading and clot retraction through the promotion of outside-in signaling while concurrently downregulating α-granule secretion by restricting granule fusion.
Zeitlich begrenzter Therapieversuch („time-limited trial“, TLT) auf der Intensivstation
Authors: Jöbges Susanne , Seidlein Anna-Henrikje , Knochel Kathrin , Michalsen Andrej , Duttge Gunnar , Supady Alexander , Dutzmann Jochen , Meier Stefan , Barndt Iris , Neitzke Gerald , Nauck Friedemann , Rogge Annette , Janssens Uwe
Published: February 2024

Die Zunahme der intensivmedizinischen Behandlungsverfahren ist mit einer Steigerung der Komplexität der Entscheidungen über Auswahl, Anwendung und Dauer der Therapiemaßnahmen verbunden. Ob im individuellen Fall ein Behandlungsziel erstrebenswert und der dafür notwendige Behandlungsweg akzeptabel ist, hängt von den persönlichen Wünschen, Werthaltungen und Lebensentwürfen der Patientinnen und Patienten ab. Häufig bestehen Unsicherheiten darüber, ob ein patientenzentriertes Behandlungsziel erreicht werden kann. Der Einsatz eines zeitlich begrenzten Therapieversuches (TLT) als eine verbindliche Übereinkunft zwischen dem Behandlungsteam und der Patientin/dem Patienten bzw. dem juristischen Stellvertretenden zu einem Behandlungskonzept über einen definierten Zeitraum auf der Intensivstation kann hilfreich sein, um Unsicherheiten zu reduzieren und die Fortführung intensivmedizinischer Maßnahmen im Sinne des/der Patient/in besser einordnen und rechtfertigen zu können.
Deepening the synergistic role of additive manufacturing and computational strategies in jewellery
Authors: Cerrato Noemi , Gariboldi Elisabetta , Ferraro Michela , Candidori Sara , Graziosi Serena
Published: February 2024

This study investigates the synergy between additive manufacturing (AM) technologies and computational design strategies in jewellery and how that synergy can be successfully exploited to extend innovation in that field further. A case study called Ecdysis, a bioinspired jewellery collection, is presented. A dedicated computational algorithm has been developed and is described in detail. This algorithm allows for the exploitation of the shape and functional complexity dimensions allowed by AM and the control of the printability of the generated concept. Shape and functional complexity are exploited to mimic the beauty and dynamism of snakes’ slithering mechanism. At the same time, starting from the developed algorithm, multiple digital models and physical prototypes have been fabricated, leveraging material extrusion, vat photopolymerisation, and powder bed fusion processes. This further development step of the collection thus confirms the versatility of both the proposed approach and AM technologies for jewellery. Therefore, the paper demonstrates how unique wearing experiences can be created and how uniqueness can be simultaneously preserved and democratised in jewellery by deepening the synergy between AM technologies and computational strategies.
The Loewner Energy via the Renormalised Energy of Moving Frames
Authors: Michelat Alexis , Wang Yilin
Published: February 2024

We obtain a new formula for the Loewner energy of Jordan curves on the sphere, which is a Kähler potential for the essentially unique Kähler metric on the Weil–Petersson universal Teichmüller space, as the renormalised energy of moving frames on the two domains of the sphere delimited by the given curve.
A virtual reality data visualization tool for dimensionality reduction methods
Authors: Morales-Vega Juan C. , Raya Laura , Rubio-Sánchez Manuel , Sanchez Alberto
Published: February 2024

In this paper, we present a virtual reality interactive tool for generating and manipulating visualizations for high-dimensional data in a natural and intuitive stereoscopic way. Our tool offers support for a diverse range of dimensionality reduction (DR) algorithms, enabling the transformation of complex data into insightful 2D or 3D representations within an immersive VR environment. The tool also allows users to include annotations with a virtual pen using hand tracking, to assign class labels to the data observations, and to perform simultaneous visualization with other users within the 3D environment to facilitate collaboration.
Enhancement of the bioactive compounds and biological activities of maca (Lepidium meyenii) via solid-state fermentation with Rhizopus oligosporus
Authors: Ryu Kyeong Min , Kim Hayeong , Woo Jiho , Lim Juho , Kang Choon Gil , Kim Seung Wook , Kim Taeyoon , Kim Doman
Published: February 2024

Maca (Lepidium meyenii Walp) is renowned for its phytochemicals, including amino acids, saponins, and macamides, confer nutritional and medicinal benefits. This study analyzed the bioactive constituents of maca via solid-state fermentation with Rhizopus oligosporus for 0–15 days. After fermentation, the l-carnitine content reached 157.3 μg/g. A 93% increase in macamide B was recorded after 7-day fermentation. Total flavonoid and saponin contents increased by 88.2% and 110.3%, respectively. The fermentation process significantly enhanced the physicochemical attributes of maca; in particular, its water retention and cholesterol-binding capacities increased by 1.73- and 4.30-fold, respectively, compared with the non-fermented maca. Moreover, fermented maca exhibited stronger antioxidant and α-glucosidase-inhibiting effects than non-fermented maca. Finally, the neuroprotective effect of maca on HT-22 cells increased by 23% after 5-day fermentation. These findings demonstrate the potential of fermented maca as a novel ingredient for foods, beverages, and pharmaceuticals.
The case for metacognitive reflection: a theory integrative review with implications for medical education
Authors: Merkebu Jerusalem , Veen Mario , Hosseini Shera , Varpio Lara
Published: February 2024

The concepts of metacognitive reflection, reflection, and metacognition are distinct but have undergone shifts in meaning as they migrated into medical education. Conceptual clarity is essential to the construction of the knowledge base of medical education and its educational interventions. We conducted a theoretical integrative review across diverse bodies of literature with the goal of understanding what metacognitive reflection is. We searched PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, PsychInfo, and Web of Science databases, including all peer-reviewed research articles and theoretical papers as well as book chapters that addressed the topic, with no limitations for date, language, or location. A total of 733 articles were identified and 87 were chosen after careful review and application of exclusion criteria. The work of conceptually and empirically delineating metacognitive reflection has begun. Contributions have been made to root metacognitive reflection in the concept of metacognition and moving beyond it to engage in cycles of reflection. Other work has underscored its affective component, transformational nature, and contextual factors. Despite this merging of threads to develop a richer conceptualization, a theory of how metacognitive reflection works is elusive. Debates address whether metacognition drives reflection or vice versa. It has also been suggested that learners evolve along on a continuum from thinking, to task-related reflection, to self-reflection, and finally to metacognitive reflection. Based on prior theory and research, as well as the findings of this review, we propose the following conceptualization: Metacognitive reflection involves heightened internal observation, awareness, monitoring, and regulation of our own knowledge, experiences, and emotions by questioning and examining cognition and emotional processes to continually refine and enhance our perspectives and decisions while thoughtfully accounting for context. We argue that metacognitive reflection brings a shift in perspective and can support valuable reconceptualization for lifelong learning.