bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Performance of new synthesized emulsifiers in ecofriendly metal cutting fluid formulations
Authors: Elsharaky E. A. , Mishrif M. R. , El-Tabei A. S. , El-Tabey Amira E.
Published: March 2024

This study aims to prepare mono and gemini nonionic emulsifiers differing in HLB to utilize in formulated metal cutting fluids. Also, the cationic gemini surfactant (GCS) was prepared and applied as a corrosion inhibitor and biocide in the formulations. FT-IR and NMR confirmed the chemical structure of the prepared compounds. Different oil package formulations were prepared by adding different trial concentrations of the additives (emulsifier, corrosion inhibitor, coupling agent, and biocide) to the eco-friendly vegetable oil (castor oil). Standard procedures were performed to assess the stability of the formulated base oil packages. Six Formulas demonstrated the greatest oil stability. Oil in water emulsions with varying formulated oil ratios (5–15 wt%) were prepared. A standard test was carried out to evaluate their performance as emulsion stability. It’s been demonstrated that Formulas II and V produced stable emulsions. The wettability alteration of formulas II and V on different metal surfaces was evaluated. The droplet size of formulated castor oil in water was determined via DLS. Corrosion test and tribological properties were also performed. The findings of this study indicate that Formula V is a good choice as a renewable addition for enhancing a variety of performance characteristics of the water-based cutting fluid.
Impacts of optimal control strategies on the HBV and COVID-19 co-epidemic spreading dynamics
Authors: Teklu Shewafera Wondimagegnhu
Published: March 2024

Different cross-sectional and clinical research studies investigated that chronic HBV infected individuals’ co-epidemic with COVID-19 infection will have more complicated liver infection than HBV infected individuals in the absence of COVID-19 infection. The main objective of this study is to investigate the optimal impacts of four time dependent control strategies on the HBV and COVID-19 co-epidemic transmission using compartmental modeling approach. The qualitative analyses of the model investigated the model solutions non-negativity and boundedness, calculated all the models effective reproduction numbers by applying the next generation operator approach, computed all the models disease-free equilibrium point (s) and endemic equilibrium point (s) and proved their local stability, shown the phenomenon of backward bifurcation by applying the Center Manifold criteria. By applied the Pontryagin’s Maximum principle, the study re-formulated and analyzed the co-epidemic model optimal control problem by incorporating four time dependent controlling variables. The study also carried out numerical simulations to verify the model qualitative results and to investigate the optimal impacts of the proposed optimal control strategies. The main finding of the study reveals that implementation of protections, COVID-19 vaccine, and treatment strategies simultaneously is the most effective optimal control strategy to tackle the HBV and COVID-19 co-epidemic spreading in the community.
Opportunistic screening with multiphase contrast-enhanced dual-layer spectral CT for osteoblastic lesions in prostate cancer compared with bone scintigraphy
Authors: Liu Ming-Cheng , Ho Chi-Chang , Lin Yen-Ting , Chai Jyh-Wen , Hung Siu-Wan , Wu Chen-Hao , Li Jian-Ri , Liu Yi-Jui
Published: March 2024

Our study aimed to compare bone scintigraphy and dual-layer detector spectral CT (DLCT) with multiphase contrast enhancement for the diagnosis of osteoblastic bone lesions in patients with prostate cancer. The patients with prostate cancer and osteoblastic bone lesions detected on DLCT were divided into positive bone scintigraphy group (pBS) and negative bone scintigraphy group (nBS) based on bone scintigraphy. A total of 106 patients (57 nBS and 49 pBS) was included. The parameters of each lesion were measured from DLCT including Hounsfield unit (HU), 40–140 keV monochromatic HU, effective nuclear numbers (Zeff), and Iodine no water (InW) value in non-contrast phase (N), the arterial phase (A), and venous phase (V). The slope of the spectral curve at 40 and 100 keV, the different values of the parameters between A and N phase (A-N), V and N phase (V-N), and hybrid prediction model with multiparameters were used to differentiate pBS from nBS. Receiver operating characteristic analysis was performed to compare the area under the curve (AUC) for differentiating the pBS group from the nBS group. The value of conventional HU values, slope, and InW in A-N and V-N, and hybrid model were significantly higher in the pBS group than in the nBS group. The hybrid model of all significant parameters had the highest AUC of 0.988, with 95.5% sensitivity and 94.6% specificity. DLCT with arterial contrast enhancement phase has the potential to serve as an opportunistic screening tool for detecting positive osteoblastic bone lesions, corresponding to those identified in bone scintigraphy.
Robust parallel laser driving of quantum dots for multiplexing of quantum light sources
Authors: Ramachandran Ajan , Wilbur Grant R. , Mathew Reuble , Mason Allister , O’Neal Sabine , Deppe Dennis G. , Hall Kimberley C.
Published: March 2024

Deterministic sources of quantum light (i.e. single photons or pairs of entangled photons) are required for a whole host of applications in quantum technology, including quantum imaging, quantum cryptography and the long-distance transfer of quantum information in future quantum networks. Semiconductor quantum dots are ideal candidates for solid-state quantum emitters as these artificial atoms have large dipole moments and a quantum confined energy level structure, enabling the realization of single photon sources with high repetition rates and high single photon purity. Quantum dots may also be triggered using a laser pulse for on-demand operation. The naturally-occurring size variations in ensembles of quantum dots offers the potential to increase the bandwidth of quantum communication systems through wavelength-division multiplexing, but conventional laser triggering schemes based on Rabi rotations are ineffective when applied to inequivalent emitters. Here we report the demonstration of the simultaneous triggering of >10 quantum dots using adiabatic rapid passage. We show that high-fidelity quantum state inversion is possible in a system of quantum dots with a 15 meV range of optical transition energies using a single broadband, chirped laser pulse, laying the foundation for high-bandwidth, multiplexed quantum networks.
Electroencephalography-based classification of Alzheimer’s disease spectrum during computer-based cognitive testing
Authors: Kim Seul-Kee , Kim Hayom , Kim Sang Hee , Kim Jung Bin , Kim Laehyun
Published: March 2024

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive disease leading to cognitive decline, and to prevent it, researchers seek to diagnose mild cognitive impairment (MCI) early. Particularly, non-amnestic MCI (naMCI) is often mistaken for normal aging as the representative symptom of AD, memory decline, is absent. Subjective cognitive decline (SCD), an intermediate step between normal aging and MCI, is crucial for prediction or early detection of MCI, which determines the presence of AD spectrum pathology. We developed a computer-based cognitive task to classify the presence or absence of AD pathology and stage within the AD spectrum, and attempted to perform multi-stage classification through electroencephalography (EEG) during resting and memory encoding state. The resting and memory-encoding states of 58 patients (20 with SCD, 10 with naMCI, 18 with aMCI, and 10 with AD) were measured and classified into four groups. We extracted features that could reflect the phase, spectral, and temporal characteristics of the resting and memory-encoding states. For the classification, we compared nine machine learning models and three deep learning models using Leave-one-subject-out strategy. Significant correlations were found between the existing neurophysiological test scores and performance of our computer-based cognitive task for all cognitive domains. In all models used, the memory-encoding states realized a higher classification performance than resting states. The best model for the 4-class classification was cKNN. The highest accuracy using resting state data was 67.24%, while it was 93.10% using memory encoding state data. This study involving participants with SCD, naMCI, aMCI, and AD focused on early Alzheimer’s diagnosis. The research used EEG data during resting and memory encoding states to classify these groups, demonstrating the significance of cognitive process-related brain waves for diagnosis. The computer-based cognitive task introduced in the study offers a time-efficient alternative to traditional neuropsychological tests, showing a strong correlation with their results and serving as a valuable tool to assess cognitive impairment with reduced bias.
Experimental studies on the characteristics of chisel picks in coal cutting for bucket wheel excavators
Authors: Su Zhenning , Song Bo , Wang Zhongxin , Liu Chang , Sun Long , Li ZiJian , Guo Mingmin
Published: March 2024

Chisel pick is a basic and important rock cutting tool, and the performance of chisel pick directly affects rock mining. In this paper, a rock cutting device was developed for chisel picks cutting experiments. The influence of the depth of cutting, width of chisel pick, rake angle, back clearance angle and tip fillet radius on the cutting performance such as cutting force, normal force, and specific energy has been comprehensively studied. In addition to the general conclusions, the experimental results show that the back clearance angle has an influence range on the cutting, and the ratio of the normal force to the cutting force decreases with the increase of the rake angle; the tip fillet radius greatly improve the mean cutting force and specific energy. The experimental results will provide data support for the design of chisel picks on rock excavation machinery and a more reasonable chisel pick cutting rock mechanics model.
Genome-wide identification and expression analysis of NF-Y gene family in tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L.)
Authors: Tian Yue , Song Kangkang , Li Bin , Song Yanru , Zhang Xiaohua , Li Haozhen , Yang Long
Published: March 2024

Nuclear factor Y (NF-Y) gene family is an important transcription factor composed of three subfamilies of NF-YA, NF-YB and NF-YC, which is involved in plant growth, development and stress response. In this study, 63 tobacco NF-Y genes (NtNF-Ys) were identified in Nicotiana tabacum L., including 17 NtNF-YAs, 30 NtNF-YBs and 16 NtNF-YCs. Phylogenetic analysis revealed ten pairs of orthologues from tomato and tobacco and 25 pairs of paralogues from tobacco. The gene structure of NtNF-YAs exhibited similarities, whereas the gene structure of NtNF-YBs and NtNF-YCs displayed significant differences. The NtNF-Ys of the same subfamily exhibited a consistent distribution of motifs and protein 3D structure. The protein interaction network revealed that NtNF-YC12 and NtNF-YC5 exhibited the highest connectivity. Many cis-acting elements related to light, stress and hormone response were found in the promoter of NtNF-Ys. Transcriptome analysis showed that more than half of the NtNF-Y genes were expressed in all tissues, and NtNF-YB9/B14/B15/B16/B17/B29 were specifically expressed in roots. A total of 15, 12, 5, and 6 NtNF-Y genes were found to respond to cold, drought, salt, and alkali stresses, respectively. The results of this study will lay a foundation for further study of NF-Y genes in tobacco and other Solanaceae plants.
Investigation of periodontal disease development and Porphyromonas gulae FimA genotype distribution in small dogs
Authors: Yasuda Junya , Yasuda Hidemi , Nomura Ryota , Matayoshi Saaya , Inaba Hiroaki , Gongora Enrique , Iwashita Naoki , Shirahata So , Kaji Noriyuki , Akitomo Tatsuya , Mitsuhata Chieko , Uchiyama Jumpei , Fukuyama Tomoki , Matsumoto-Nakano Michiyo , Nakano Kazuhiko , Murakami Masaru
Published: March 2024

In dogs, Porphyromonas gulae is a major periodontal pathogen with 41-kDa proteins polymerizing to form a filamentous structure called fimbriae or pili, termed FimA. FimA is classified into three genotypes: A, B, and C, and there are combinations of types A, B, C, A/B, A/C, B/C, and A/B/C. Periodontal disease is the most common oral disease in small dogs, but the periodontal disease status and P. gulae colonization at each dog age and breed remain unclear. In this study, we stratified 665 small dogs and analyzed the periodontal status and distribution of P. gulae with each FimA genotype. Dogs with periodontal disease and FimA genotype tended to increase with age. The dogs with at least one FimA genotype had significantly more severe periodontal disease compared with P. gulae-negative dogs (P < 0.01). Additionally, periodontal status was significantly associated with specific FimA genotype distribution in Toy Poodles and Chihuahuas (P < 0.05), whereas there was no such association in Dachshunds. These results suggest that the onset of periodontal disease and P. gulae colonization are related and progress with age. The relationship between periodontal disease and FimA genotype may differ depending on the dog breeds.
Time-resolved quantification of fine hand movements as a proxy for evaluating bradykinesia-induced motor dysfunction
Authors: Spooner Rachel K. , Bahners Bahne H. , Schnitzler Alfons , Florin Esther
Published: March 2024

Bradykinesia is a behavioral manifestation that contributes to functional dependencies in later life. However, the current state of bradykinesia indexing primarily relies on subjective, time-averaged categorizations of motor deficits, which often yield poor reliability. Herein, we used time-resolved analyses of accelerometer recordings during standardized movements, data-driven factor analyses, and linear mixed effects models (LMEs) to quantitatively characterize general, task- and therapy-specific indices of motor impairment in people with Parkinson’s disease (PwP) currently undergoing treatment for bradykinesia. Our results demonstrate that single-trial, accelerometer-based features of finger-tapping and rotational hand movements were significantly modulated by divergent therapeutic regimens. Further, these features corresponded well to current gold standards for symptom monitoring, with more precise predictive capacities of bradykinesia-specific declines achieved when considering kinematic features from diverse movement types together, rather than in isolation. Herein, we report data-driven, sample-specific kinematic profiles of diverse movement types along a continuous spectrum of motor impairment, which importantly, preserves the temporal scale for which biomechanical fluctuations in motor deficits evolve in humans. Therefore, this approach may prove useful for tracking bradykinesia-induced motor decline in aging populations the future.
Cognitive decline in post-COVID-19 syndrome does not correspond with persisting neuronal or astrocytic damage
Authors: Boesl Fabian , Goereci Yasemin , Schweitzer Finja , Finke Carsten , Schild Ann-Katrin , Bittner Stefan , Steffen Falk , Schröder Maria , Quitschau Anneke , Heine Josephine , Warnke Clemens , Franke Christiana
Published: March 2024

Cognitive impairment is the most frequent symptom reported in post-COVID-19 syndrome (PCS). Aetiology of cognitive impairment in PCS is still to be determined. Neurofilament light chain (NfL) and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) are increased in acute COVID-19. Their role as biomarkers in other neurological disorders is under debate. We analysed serum levels of NfL and GFAP as markers for neuronal and astrocytic damage in 53 patients presenting to a PCS Neurology outpatient clinic. Only individuals with self-reported cognitive complaints were included. In these individuals, cognitive complaints were further assessed by comprehensive neuropsychological assessment (NPA). Patients were categorized into subgroups of subjective cognitive decline, single domain impairment, or multi-domain impairment. Serum NfL was in normal range, however an increase of serum GFAP was detected in 4% of patients. Serum NfL and GFAP levels correlated with each other, even when adjusting for patient age (r = 0.347, p = 0.012). NPA showed deficits in 70%; 40% showing impairment in several tested domains. No significant differences were found between serum NfL- and GFAP-levels comparing patients with subjective cognitive decline, single domain impairment, or multi-domain impairment. Persistent neuronal or astrocytic damage did not correlate with cognitive impairment in PCS.
A novel prediction tool for mortality in patients with acute lower gastrointestinal bleeding requiring emergency hospitalization: a large multicenter study
Authors: Tominaga Naoyuki , Sadashima Eiji , Aoki Tomonori , Fujita Minoru , Kobayashi Katsumasa , Yamauchi Atsushi , Yamada Atsuo , Omori Jun , Ikeya Takashi , Aoyama Taiki , Sato Yoshinori , Kishino Takaaki , Ishii Naoki , Sawada Tsunaki , Murata Masaki , Takao Akinari , Mizukami Kazuhiro , Kinjo Ken , Fujimori Shunji , Uotani Takahiro , Sato Hiroki , Suzuki Sho , Narasaka Toshiaki , Hayasaka Junnosuke , Funabiki Tomohiro , Kinjo Yuzuru , Mizuki Akira , Kiyotoki Shu , Mikami Tatsuya , Gushima Ryosuke , Fujii Hiroyuki , Fuyuno Yuta , Hikichi Takuto , Toya Yosuke , Narimatsu Kazuyuki , Manabe Noriaki , Nagaike Koji , Kinjo Tetsu , Sumida Yorinobu , Funakoshi Sadahiro , Kobayashi Kiyonori , Matsuhashi Tamotsu , Komaki Yuga , Miki Kuniko , Watanabe Kazuhiro , Kaise Mitsuru , Nagata Naoyoshi
Published: March 2024

The study aimed to identify prognostic factors for patients with acute lower gastrointestinal bleeding and to develop a high-accuracy prediction tool. The analysis included 8254 cases of acute hematochezia patients who were admitted urgently based on the judgment of emergency physicians or gastroenterology consultants (from the CODE BLUE J-study). Patients were randomly assigned to a derivation cohort and a validation cohort in a 2:1 ratio using a random number table. Assuming that factors present at the time of admission are involved in mortality within 30 days of admission, and adding management factors during hospitalization to the factors at the time of admission for mortality within 1 year, prognostic factors were established. Multivariate analysis was conducted, and scores were assigned to each factor using regression coefficients, summing these to measure the score. The newly created score (CACHEXIA score) became a tool capable of measuring both mortality within 30 days (ROC-AUC 0.93) and within 1 year (C-index, 0.88). The 1-year mortality rates for patients classified as low, medium, and high risk by the CACHEXIA score were 1.0%, 13.4%, and 54.3% respectively (all P < 0.001). After discharge, patients identified as high risk using our unique predictive score require ongoing observation.
Elevation of astrocyte-derived extracellular vesicles over the first month post-stroke in humans
Authors: Edwardson Matthew A. , Mitsuhashi Masato , Van Epps Dennis
Published: March 2024

We sought to identify alterations in the quantity of plasma brain-derived extracellular vesicles (EV) over the first month post-stroke to shed light on related injury and repair mechanisms. We assessed plasma levels of presumed neuron-derived EVs (NDEs), astrocyte-derived EVs (ADEs), and oligodendrocyte-derived EVs (ODEs) in 58 patients 5, 15, and 30 days post-ischemic stroke and 46 controls matched for cardiovascular risk factors using sandwich immunoassays. Subsets of brain-derived EVs were identified by co-expression of the general EV marker CD9 and markers for neurons (L1CAM, CD171), astrocytes (EAAT1), and oligodendrocytes (MOG) respectively. Clinical MRIs assessed lesion volume and presence of hemorrhagic transformation. ADE levels were elevated 5, 15, and 30 days post-stroke compared to controls (p = 0.002, p = 0.002, and p = 0.005 respectively) with no significant change for NDE or ODE. ADEs were increased 15 days post-stroke in patients with hemorrhagic transformation (p = 0.04) compared to patients with no hemorrhage. We conclude that ADE levels are preferentially increased over the first month post-stroke in humans, possibly to provide trophic support to injured neurons following ischemia. ADEs hold potential as biomarkers of blood–brain barrier breakdown and hemorrhagic transformation, but this requires further study at earlier time points post-stroke.
Seroprevalence of neuronal antibodies in diseases mimicking autoimmune encephalitis
Authors: Vaisvilas Mantas , Petrosian David , Bagdonaite Loreta , Taluntiene Vera , Kralikiene Viktorija , Daugelaviciene Neringa , Neniskyte Urte , Kaubrys Gintaras , Giedraitiene Natasa
Published: March 2024

Detection of neuronal antibodies for autoimmune encephalitis and paraneoplastic neurological syndromes relies on commercially available cell-based assays and lineblots. However, lineblots may reveal the presence of neuronal antibodies in patients with various non-autoimmune etiologies. Herein we describe patients with non-autoimmune etiologies (cohort B) and detectable neuronal antibodies and compare them to definite cases of autoimmune encephalitis (cohort A) for differences in clinical data. All patients positive for at least one neuronal antibody were retrospectively evaluated for autoimmune encephalitis and/or paraneoplastic neurological syndrome between 2016 and 2022. 39 cases in cohort B and 23 in cohort A were identified. In cohort B, most common diagnoses were neurodegenerative disorders in 9/39 (23.1%), brain tumors in 6/39 (15.4%) while most common detected antibodies were anti–titin (N10), anti-recoverin (N11), anti-Yo (N8) and all were detected in serum only. Differential aspects between cohort A and B were CSF pleocytosis (14/23 (60.8%) vs 11/35 (31.4%), p = 0.042, respectively), MRI features suggestive of encephalitis (6/23 (26.1%) vs 0 (0%), p = 0.002, respectively) and epilepsy restricted to temporal lobes (14/23 (60.9%) vs 2/30 (6.7%), p = 0.0003, respectively). A large proportion of lineblot results were non-specific when only serum was tested and were frequently found in non-autoimmune neurological conditions.
Risk factors associated with neonatal mortality among neonates admitted to neonatal intensive care unit of the University Teaching Hospital in Lusaka
Authors: Tembo Deborah , Abobo Francis D. N. , Kaonga Patrick , Jacobs Choolwe , Bessing Barnabas
Published: March 2024

Globally, several children die shortly after birth and many more of them within the first 28 days of life. Sub-Sharan Africa accounts for almost half (43%) of the global neonatal death with slow progress in reduction. These neonatal deaths are associated with lack of quality care at or immediately after birth and in the first 28 days of life. This study aimed to determine the trends and risk factors of facility-based neonatal mortality in a major referral hospital in Lusaka, Zambia. We conducted retrospective analysis involving all neonates admitted in the University Teaching Hospital Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (UTH-NICU) in Lusaka from January 2018 to December 2019 (N = 2340). We determined the trends and assessed the factors associated with facility-based neonatal mortality using Generalized Linear Models (GLM) with a Poisson distribution and log link function. Overall, the facility-based neonatal mortality was 40.2% (95% CI 38.0–42.0) per 1000 live births for the 2-year period with a slight decline in mortality rate from 42.9% (95% CI 40.0–46.0) in 2018 to 37.3% (95% CI 35.0–40.0) in 2019. In a final multivariable model, home delivery (ARR: 1.70, 95% CI 1.46–1.96), preterm birth (ARR: 1.59, 95% CI 1.36–1.85), congenital anomalies (ARR: 1.59, 95% CI 1.34–1.88), low birthweight (ARR: 1.57, 95% CI 1.37–1.79), and health centre delivery (ARR: 1.48, 95% CI 1.25–1.75) were independently associated with increase in facility-based neonatal mortality. Conversely, hypothermia (ARR: 0.36, 95% CI 0.22–0.60), antenatal attendance (ARR: 0.76, 95% CI 0.68–0.85), and 1-day increase in neonatal age (ARR: 0.96, 95% CI 0.95–0.97) were independently associated with reduction in facility-based neonatal mortality. In this hospital-based study, neonatal mortality was high compared to the national and global targets. The improvement in neonatal survival observed in this study may be due to interventions including Kangaroo mother care already being implemented. Early identification and interventions to reduce the impact of risks factors of neonatal mortality in Zambia are important.
Radar nonlinear multi-target tracking method with parallel PHD filter
Authors: Tao Jin , Jiang Defu , Yang Jialin , Han Yan , Wang Song , Lu Xingchen
Published: March 2024

Since probability hypothesis density (PHD) filters do not need explicit data association, they have recently been widely used in radar multi-target tracking (MTT). However, in existing PHD filters, sampling times are generally considered the same for all targets. Due to the limitation of antenna beam width in radar applications, the same sampling time for all targets will lead to a mismatch between the predicted data and measurement data, reducing the accuracy of radar MTT. In order to eliminate the estimation error with less computational cost, a radar nonlinear multi-target tracking method with a parallel PHD filter is proposed in this article. The measurement area is divided into several subspaces according to the beam width of the radar antenna, and the PHD of all subspaces is calculated in parallel. Then, multi-feature information in radar echo assists tracking and improves real-time performance. Experimental results in various scenarios illustrate that the proposed method can eliminate the estimation errors introduced by sampling time diversity at the cost of less computation cost, especially in cluttered environments.
Aggressive sperm immobilization improves reproductive outcomes in patients with suboptimal semen parameters and previous ICSI fertilization failure
Authors: Chou Ching-Wen , Chen Shee-Uan , Chang Chin-Hao , Tsai Yi-Yi , Huang Chu-Chun
Published: March 2024

Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) is the most effective procedure to resolve male infertility, enhancing overall fertilization and pregnancy outcomes. However, it is important to note that fertilization failure (FF) can still occur in a few cases after ICSI. This study aims to introduce a specialized technique of aggressive sperm immobilization for ICSI and evaluate its impact on reproductive outcomes in cases involving prior fertilization failure. All infertile couples with male partners having suboptimal semen samples and previous ICSI fertilization failure were evaluated using retrospective data from National Taiwan tertiary university hospital (NTUH) between January 2016 and February 2022. Fertilization failure in our study was defined as less than 30% fertilization rate (FR, the number of normally fertilized oocytes divided by the total number of injected mature oocytes). Data involving both standard (routine procedure) and aggressive sperm immobilization (SI) techniques during different ICSI cycles were included in this study. Standard and aggressive SI methods were performed by compressing the distal half tail of the spermatozoa ≦ 5 and 15 times prior to ICSI respectively. Generalized estimating equations analysis were applied to compare the clinical outcomes between two procedures. Overall, data from 23 infertile couples who had undergone 65 ICSI cycles (31 standard SI with low fertilization rate and 34 aggressive SI) were included in the study. The average FR in the ICSI cycles with standard SI and aggressive SI were 23.6 ± 23.1% and 49.5 ± 31.8 respectively (P = 0.0002). The majority of embryos were transferred at the day 3 stage, with an average number transferred of 2.6 ± 0.9 in the aggressive SI group and 1.9 ± 0.9 in the standard group. The number of embryos transferred per transfer cycle was higher in the aggressive SI (P = 0.015), whereas the number of good-quality embryos was similar between the two procedures (P = 0.44). There were one and seven live births from the standard SI cycles and aggressive SI cycles respectively. In conclusion, aggressive SI was associated with a significantly higher FR, resulting in more available embryos for transfer without compromising embryo quality. Therefore, this specialized technique improved pregnancy outcome among infertile couples with a previous ICSI–FF. It can be a safe, economic, and effective method to improve the assisted reproductive technologies outcomes for infertile patients affected by previous ICSI–FF.
A minimal metadata set (MNMS) to repurpose nonclinical in vivo data for biomedical research
Authors: Moresis Anastasios , Restivo Leonardo , Bromilow Sophie , Flik Gunnar , Rosati Giorgio , Scorrano Fabrizio , Tsoory Michael , O’Connor Eoin C. , Gaburro Stefano , Bannach-Brown Alexandra
Published: March 2024

Although biomedical research is experiencing a data explosion, the accumulation of vast quantities of data alone does not guarantee a primary objective for science: building upon existing knowledge. Data collected that lack appropriate metadata cannot be fully interrogated or integrated into new research projects, leading to wasted resources and missed opportunities for data repurposing. This issue is particularly acute for research using animals, where concerns regarding data reproducibility and ensuring animal welfare are paramount. Here, to address this problem, we propose a minimal metadata set (MNMS) designed to enable the repurposing of in vivo data. MNMS aligns with an existing validated guideline for reporting in vivo data (ARRIVE 2.0) and contributes to making in vivo data FAIR-compliant. Scenarios where MNMS should be implemented in diverse research environments are presented, highlighting opportunities and challenges for data repurposing at different scales. We conclude with a ‘call for action’ to key stakeholders in biomedical research to adopt and apply MNMS to accelerate both the advancement of knowledge and the betterment of animal welfare.
KCTD15 acts as an anti-tumor factor in colorectal cancer cells downstream of the demethylase FTO and the m6A reader YTHDF2
Authors: Zhang Fang-Yuan , Wu Lin , Zhang Tie-Ning , Chen Huan-Huan
Published: March 2024

Potassium Channel Tetramerization Domain Containing 15 (KCTD15) participates in the carcinogenesis of several solid malignancies; however, its role in colorectal cancer (CRC) remains unclear. Here we find that KCTD15 exhibits lower expression in CRC tissues as compared to para-carcinoma tissues. Tetracycline (tet)-induced overexpression and knockdown of KCTD15 confirms KCTD15 as an anti-proliferative and pro-apoptotic factor in CRC both in vitro and in xenografted tumors. N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is known to affect the expression, stabilization, and degradation of RNAs with this modification. We demonstrate that upregulation of fat mass and obesity-associated protein (FTO), a classical m6A eraser, prevents KCTD15 mRNA degradation in CRC cells. Less KCTD15 RNA is recognized by m6A ‘reader’ YTH N6-Methyladenosine RNA Binding Protein F2 (YTHDF2) in FTO-overexpressed cells. Moreover, KCTD15 overexpression decreases protein expression of histone deacetylase 1 (HDAC1) but increases acetylation of critical tumor suppressor p53 at Lys373 and Lys382. Degradation of p53 is delayed in CRC cells post-KCTD15 overexpression. We further show that the regulatory effects of KCTD15 on p53 are HDAC1-dependent. Collectively, we conclude that KCTD15 functions as an anti-growth factor in CRC cells, and its expression is orchestrated by the FTO-YTHDF2 axis. Enhanced p53 protein stabilization may contribute to KCTD15’s actions in CRC cells.
The Importance of NMR as a Discovery Tool
Authors: Downey K. , Ronda K. , Steiner K. , Jobst K. , Kleywegt S. , Simpson M. J. , Simpson A. J.
Published: March 2024

The nontargeted nature of NMR spectroscopy, in addition to its powerful chemical elucidation capabilities, makes it an ideal analytical tool for compound discovery, and it is especially useful in instances where mass spectrometry alone is insufficient. This chapter addresses some of the main findings of NMR in compound discovery, with an emphasis on environmental applications. Topics include its ability to facilitate and enable the identification of novel contaminants, interactions, and transformation processes and products, as well as the integral role it has played in metabolomics research. NMR’s use in food safety and detection of adulteration of high value consumables is subsequently examined. In addition to 1H and 13C NMR, applications of unconventional nuclei in environmental analysis are also discussed. Ultimately, this chapter concludes with a brief summary of NMR’s promising future in compound discovery.
Self-diffusion NMR as a Powerful Tool for the Evaluation of Environmental Contamination
Authors: Valiullin R.
Published: March 2024

Diffusion is an omnipresent phenomenon in nature controlling various processes. Among different experimental techniques allowing for transport characterization, diffusion NMR plays a leading role due to a favourable combination of several features: it is non-invasive, non-perturbative and chemically-selective. In addition, the molecular displacements it traces most closely resemble the typical length scales in heterogeneous environments of industrial and environmental interests. In this way, diffusion as probed by diffusion NMR not only reports on the dynamical properties of chemical species, but also reveals immense information about the environment where diffusion takes place. In this chapter, the basics of diffusion NMR are covered and various types of information it delivers are discussed.
Using Magnetic Resonance Imaging to Study Contaminant Dynamics
Authors: Morris R. H. , Newton M. I. , Nestle N.
Published: March 2024

Magnetic resonance imaging allows us to spatially resolve signals from within our samples providing information not only on the nature of their content, but also on the distribution of features both in up to three-dimensional space and in time. An earlier chapter has introduced the power of magnetic resonance spectroscopy as a tool to study soil contamination which will be extended here to consider how imaging can provide complementary information, particularly with respect to spatial and temporal dynamics in transport, migration and flow. This is a continually growing area of interest in environmental science. To support this growth, where possible, a starting point for protocols and parameters is provided to minimise some of the challenges involved in running such experiments from scratch.
NMR Techniques for the Evaluation of Biochar Characteristics
Authors: Conte P. , Chillura Martino D. F. , Spinella A. , Librici C. , Bambina P. , Piacenza E. , Lo Meo P.
Published: March 2024

Biochar, a carbonaceous material, has emerged as a valuable tool for environmental remediation and soil fertility enhancement. Its activity – i.e., its ability to either change soil properties or affect the fate of organic and inorganic pollutants – depends on both its physical and chemical characteristics. The most recent literature evidenced that conventional chemical analyses are insufficient to fully understand biochar’s functionality in environmental compartments. Therefore, new and more sophisticated technologies are needed to unveil the mechanisms underlying biochar’s actions. In this chapter, different NMR techniques for biochar evaluation are presented, and the limitations and advantages of each technique are discussed.
Nanomedicine for combination of chemodynamic therapy and immunotherapy of cancers
Authors: Ahmad Waqas , Sajjad Wasim , Zhou Qinghao , Ge Zhishen
Published: March 2024

The combination of chemodynamic therapy (CDT) with immunotherapy can result in enhanced therapeutic effects of cancers. The recent progresses and challenges concerning nanomedicine for combination of CDT and immunotherapy are summarized and discussed.
Computational study of the interactions of tetravalent actinides (An = Th–Pu) with the α-Fe13 Keggin cluster
Authors: Dempsey Ryan L. , Kaltsoyannis Nikolas
Published: March 2024

The interactions of the early actinides with molecular Fe13 Keggin species of relevance to Sellafield's Enhanced Actinide Removal Plant are investigated computationally using scalar and spin–orbit relativistic hybrid density functional theory.
A novel bismuth-activated Sr3NaSbO6 phosphor with multi-band switchable emission for NUV-pumped LEDs
Authors: Wang Ziyao , Li Hui , Ma Guofeng , Yang Xinyao
Published: March 2024

Bi3+ in different lattice sites can be selectively excited by switching the applied UV wavelength.
Mechanisms of probiotic modulation of ovarian sex hormone production and metabolism: a review
Authors: Liu Xiao , Chen Xiaoyong , Wang Chen , Song Jiajia , Xu Jiahui , Gao Zhen , Huang Yechuan , Suo Huayi
Published: March 2024

Effects of the brain, liver, pancreas, and fat on ovarian sex hormone production through the gut.
Single-cell analysis of innate immune cell mechanics: an application to cancer immunology
Authors: Evers Tom M.J. , van Weverwijk Antoinette , de Visser Karin E. , Mashaghi Alireza
Published: March 2024

Alterations in the tumor microenvironment not only modulate cancer cell progression and invasiveness but also affect the viscoelastic properties of immune cells therein.
The luminescence modulation of rare earth-doped/containing lead-free double perovskites toward multifunctional applications: a review
Authors: Wang Haiyan , Yao Jiandong , Zeng Ruosheng
Published: March 2024

This review summarized the optical performances of RE doped/containing lead-free DPs, which involve the extension of luminescence range, the improvement of PLQY, the realization of multi-mode excitation and multi-color emission.
Novel alginate nanoparticles for the simultaneous delivery of iron and folate: a potential nano-drug delivery system for anaemic patients
Authors: Rajapaksha Weranga , Nicholas Irosha H. W. , Thoradeniya T. , Karunaratne D. Nedra , Karunaratne V.
Published: March 2024

Novel alginate nanocarriers for dual iron and folate delivery: a pH-responsive system for enhanced oral bioavailability in anaemia.
3D sponge loaded with cisplatin–CS–calcium alginate MPs utilized as a void-filling prosthesis for the efficient postoperative prevention of tumor recurrence and metastasis
Authors: Yang Yihong , Ye Genlan , Qiu Xiaozhong
Published: March 2024

This study devised a novel 3D sponge implant containing cisplatin-loaded chitosan–calcium alginate MPs capable of exerting combined chemotherapy and hemostasis effects.
At-line monitoring of hydrogen peroxide released from its photocatalytic and continuous synthesis
Authors: Tjell Anders Ø. , Meyer Lars-Erik , Jud Barbara , Kara Selin , Mayr Torsten
Published: March 2024

Photocatalytic synthesis of H2O2 in a continuous operation set-up using nitrogen-doped carbon nanodots (N-CNDs) and simultaneous determination of generated H2O2.
A computational study of nematic core structure and disclination interactions in elastically anisotropic nematics
Authors: Myers Lucas , Swift Carter , Rønning Jonas , Angheluta Luiza , Viñals Jorge
Published: March 2024

The structure of isolated disclinations and disclination dipoles in anisotropically elastic nematic liquid crystals is explored via a singular potential computational model.
Structure formation induced by non-reciprocal cell–cell interactions in a multicellular system
Authors: Bhattacherjee Biplab , Hayakawa Masayuki , Shibata Tatsuo
Published: March 2024

The interplay between non-reciprocal cell–cell interactions and alignment interactions leads to the emergence of collective cell migration, such as chain migration and traveling band formation.
EGraFFBench: evaluation of equivariant graph neural network force fields for atomistic simulations
Authors: Bihani Vaibhav , Mannan Sajid , Pratiush Utkarsh , Du Tao , Chen Zhimin , Miret Santiago , Micoulaut Matthieu , Smedskjaer Morten M. , Ranu Sayan , Krishnan N. M. Anoop
Published: March 2024

EGraFFBench: a framework for evaluating equivariant graph neural network force fields on dynamic atomistic simulations.
Electrochemical oxidative decarboxylative of α-oxocarboxylic acids towards the synthesis of quinazolines and quinazolinones
Authors: Wu Jiwei , Zhang Mengru , He Jun , Li Kaixuan , Ye Longqiang , Zhou Jie , Xu Xiaolan , Li Zirong , Xu Huajian
Published: March 2024

We developed a mild and environmentally friendly electrochemical method for the synthesis of quinazolines and quinazolinones via electrochemical oxidative decarboxylation of α-oxocarboxylic acids.
Excited-state antiaromaticity relief drives facile photoprotonation of carbons in aminobiphenyls
Authors: Draženović Josip , Laconsay Croix J. , Došlić Nađa , I-Chia Wu Judy , Basarić Nikola
Published: March 2024

ortho-, meta- and para-aminobiphenyl isomers undergo distinctly different photochemical reactions involving proton transfer, which are driven by excited-state antiaromaticity relief.
Trapping bond exchange phenomenon revealed for off-stoichiometry cross-linking of phase-separated vitrimer-like materials
Authors: Kito Takumi , Hayashi Mikihiro
Published: March 2024

Unusual relaxation and creep properties by the trapping bond exchange phenomenon is revealed for vitrimer-like materials with bond exchangeable domains of quaternized pyridines, in the special case of off- stoichiometric cross-linking condition.
The inheritance and development of Wuhu iron paintings from the perspective of cultural industry
Authors: Li Gang , Hu Jianyao
Published: March 2024

Wuhu iron painting is a unique arts and crafts of Wuhu. As one of the traditional Chinese handicrafts, it has extremely high artistic value. Under the influence of new media, the development of Wuhu iron paintings has been hindered, and has fallen into problems such as insufficient talents, lack of funds, and broken inheritance. In order to propose a more valuable inheritance and development path, we now use literature analysis and case study methods, combined with policy documents and excellent cases, to explore the development direction of the cultural industry on the basis of existing research, and propose form innovation and improvement of media Economic system, establishing a sound education inheritance model, opening up industrial barriers, and integrating multiculturalism are four measures in order to promote the inheritance and development of Wuhu iron painting, stimulate the internal driving force for the development of Wuhu iron painting, and form a sustainable development chain.
Liaogan: A Folk Religious Practice in Northwest China
Authors: Liang Yan , Xie Bingxue
Published: March 2024

As the concluding activity of the Spring Festival in Northwest China, Liaogan is a distinctive local folk religious practice. This article, taking Qingyang City, Gansu Province, as a case study, employs anthropological fieldwork methods to present the entire process of the Liaogan ritual, trace its historical development and folk cultural connotations, and analysis the role of Liaogan in shaping social cohesion and the daily lives of Northwest people. The paper posits that Liaogan originates from humanity's shared belief in fire and the god of fire, representing a remnant of primitive religious beliefs. The purpose of Liaogan is to ward off evil, eliminate diseases and disasters, and fulfill people's hopes for a bountiful harvest. In this beautiful prayer process, a daily social function of purifying the soul and maintaining social relationships manifests itself in seemingly unconscious activities and continues to serve a symbolic social function in modern society.
Study on the Systematic Evaluation of the Management of Art Societies for Vocational College Students
Authors: Qin Kun , Luo Qing , Xie Lunxi , Lin Meng
Published: March 2024

There are certain issues in the current management of interest-oriented art clubs for college students. For instance, the school exercises absolute control over the management, treating students as mere subjects of management. To address these problems, this paper employs research methods such as literature review, surveys, and interviews. By reviewing literature related to aesthetic education and conducting a questionnaire survey and interviews with members of university art clubs, we aim to gain an understanding of the current situation, identify existing problems, and determine possible reasons for these management issues. Based on the data collected from the survey and interviews, we propose systematic and scientific suggestions for the management of university art clubs. The findings reveal that college students generally express a high level of satisfaction with art clubs or symphony orchestras, and the overall evaluation is positive. However, there are still some issues concerning managerial awareness, teacher allocation and professional competence, management mechanisms, club activity arrangements, as well as funding and manpower investment. Therefore, we recommend enhancing teacher training to improve their professional competence and skills.
The Preservation System of Public Order in International Private Law
Authors: Hou Nancy
Published: March 2024

This paper aims to analyze the connotation of the public order reservation system and explore the negative effects arising from the flexible nature of this system. In order for this system to be applied reasonably, the paper proposes some suggestions for restricting its application from three aspects: clarifying the connotation of the public order reservation system, analyzing applicable standards, and proposing relevant measures after excluding application. Furthermore, based on China's "one country, two systems" system and the current legislative situation, the paper also provides some suggestions for the improvement of legislation regarding the public order reservation system in China.
Innovative Strategies in Logistics and Supply Chain Management: Navigating Modern Challenges
Authors: Lai Yingying
Published: March 2024

In the current landscape of global commerce, logistics and supply chain management stand at the forefront of both opportunity and challenge, significantly influenced by the relentless march of globalization and the rapid pace of technological innovation. As companies strive to maintain competitive edges, the intricacies of managing the flow of goods, information, and capital across vast geographic and digital landscapes have become more pronounced than ever. This comprehensive paper delves into the heart of these complexities, dissecting the pivotal aspects of digital transformation, environmental sustainability, and robust resilience within supply chain ecosystems. By weaving together a rich tapestry of contemporary literature and illustrative case studies, this exploration yields a wealth of practical insights. It underscores the necessity of integrating cutting-edge digital technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), and blockchain to streamline supply chain operations and enhance real-time decisionmaking. Simultaneously, it highlights the growing imperative for sustainability, pushing organizations to implement eco-friendly practices and reduce carbon footprints in a bid to address mounting environmental concerns. Furthermore, the paper addresses the vital issue of supply chain resilience, examining strategies that can enable businesses to withstand disruptive events and rebound from challenges with agility and minimal impact. Within these discussions, the document underscores innovative strategies capable of elevating logistics and supply chain efficiency, advancing green initiatives, and ensuring that these complex networks can adapt and thrive amidst an ever-shifting global business milieu. By meticulously analyzing the intersection of these critical factors, the study presents a blueprint for navigating the intricate web of modern-day logistics and supply chain dynamics, offering guidance for practitioners aiming to excel within this fast-evolving sector.