bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relationship between joint structure of the first tarsometatarsal joint and its degeneration
Authors: Sakamoto Kodai , Edama Mutsuaki , Osanami Haruki , Yokota Hirotake , Hirabayashi Ryo , Sekine Chie , Ishigaki Tomonobu , Akuzawa Hiroshi , Toriumi Taku , Kageyama Ikuo
Published: June 2024

This study aimed to elucidate the relationship between joint structures of the first tarsometatarsal and articular facet degeneration. A total of 100 feet from 50 cadavers were examined. The articular facets of the first metatarsal and medial cuneiform were categorized into four types based on the superior and inferior facets' separation, and the formation of the inferior lateral facet on the lateral plantar prominence: Type I, a single facet with no separation or inferior lateral facet; Type II-a, two facets with separation but no inferior lateral facet; Type II-b, two facets, no separation, but with an inferior lateral facet; Type III, three facets with separation and an inferior lateral facet. When both bone types matched, they were defined as Type I, Type II-a, Type II-b, and Type III joints, respectively; unmatched types were classified as Unpair joints. The severity of articular cartilage degeneration on both bones was assessed using a 5-point scale. The degeneration grade was compared among joint types. Type III joints exhibited significantly milder articular cartilage degeneration in medial cuneiform compared to Type II-a, II-b, Unpair joints. The formation of inferior lateral facet and separation of the superior and inferior facets might be crucial for the joint's stability.
Fetal gut cell-like differentiation in esophageal adenocarcinoma defines a rare tumor subtype with therapeutically relevant claudin-6 positivity and SWI/SNF gene alteration
Authors: Kraemer Max , Zander Thomas , Alakus Hakan , Buettner Reinhard , Lyu Su Ir , Simon Adrian Georg , Schroeder Wolfgang , Bruns Christiane J. , Quaas Alexander
Published: June 2024

Esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC) is one of the deadliest tumor entities worldwide, with a 5-year survival rate of less than 25%. Unlike other tumor entities, personalized therapy options are rare, partly due to the lack of knowledge about specific subgroups. In this publication, we demonstrate a subgroup of patients with EAC in a large screening cohort of 826 patients, characterized by specific morphological and immunohistochemical features. This subgroup represents approximately 0.7% (6/826) of the total cohort. Morphological features of this subgroup show a striking clear cytoplasm of the tumour cells and the parallel existence of rare growth patterns like yolk sac-like differentiation and enteroblastic differentiation. Immunohistochemistry reveals expression of the fetal gut cell-like proteins Sal-like protein 4 (SALL4), claudin-6, and glypican 3. Interestingly, we find a correlation with alterations of SWI/SNF-complex associated genes, which are supposed to serve as tumor suppressor genes in various tumour entities. Our results suggest a possible implication of rare tumour subtypes in the WHO classification for EACs according to the classification for gastric cancer. Furthermore, claudin-6 positive tumors have shown promising efficacy of CAR T cell therapy in the recently published BNT-211-01 trial (NCT04503278). This represents a personalized therapeutic option for this tumor subtype.
Effect of moisture content variation on dielectric properties of various plant leaves at microwave frequencies
Authors: Chauhan Pratipal D. , Gadani Deepak H. , Rana Vipin A.
Published: June 2024

Complex permittivity of Corn, Jowar, Ashoka and Banana plant leaves was measured using a Vector Network Analyzer (Anritsu Shockline Model-MS46322A) over 500 MHz to 15 GHz frequency range, at different moisture contents. The dielectric constant (

$$\varepsilon$$

ε

′) and dielectric loss (

$$\varepsilon$$

ε

″) of the leaves decrease with decrease in moisture content over this frequency range. For the leaves having moisture content less than certain critical moisture level (CML), the values of

$$\varepsilon$$

ε

′ and

$$\varepsilon$$

ε

” remain almost constant with frequency variation.

$$\varepsilon$$

ε

″ does not increase appreciably with the increase in moisture content up to CML. CML is found to vary for different types of leaves. At higher moisture level,

$$\varepsilon$$

ε

′ and

$$\varepsilon$$

ε

″ exhibit frequency dependence. Above certain moisture level in the leaves,

$$\varepsilon$$

ε

″ starts to increase slowly with the increase in frequency above 3 GHz approaching towards the dielectric relaxation of water. The values of

$$\varepsilon$$

ε

′ and

$$\varepsilon$$

ε

″ were also measured for the extract of leaves and compared with the values calculated using Stogryn equations for the same salinity, and the results agree with the calculated values. The measured values of

$$\varepsilon$$

ε

′ and

$$\varepsilon$$

ε

″ for the leaves were compared with the values calculated using Debye–Cole dual dispersion dielectric model and are found to match very well.
A comprehensive epigenetic network can influence the occurrence of thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy by affecting immune and inflammatory response
Authors: Zhang Zhuo , Wu Hongshi , Gong Xun , Yan Yuerong , Li Xiaohui , Yang Rongxue , Wu Muchao , Xu Mingtong
Published: June 2024

The primary objective of this study is to understand the regulatory role of epigenetics in thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy (TAO) using multi-omics sequencing data. We utilized tRFs sequencing data, DNA methylation sequencing data, and lncRNA/circRNA/mRNA sequencing data, as well as several RNA methylation target prediction websites, to analyze the regulatory effect of DNA methylation, non-coding RNA, and RNA methylation on TAO-associated genes. Through differential expression analysis, we identified 1019 differentially expressed genes, 985 differentially methylated genes, and 2601 non-coding RNA. Functional analysis showed that differentially expressed genes were mostly associated with the PI3K signaling pathway and the IL17 signaling pathway. Genes regulated by DNA epigenetic regulatory networks were mainly related to the Cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction pathway, whereas genes regulated by RNA epigenetic regulatory networks were primarily related to the T cell receptor signaling pathway. Finally, our integrated regulatory network analysis revealed that epigenetics mainly impacts the occurrence of TAO through its effects on key pathways such as cell killing, cytokine production, and immune response. In summary, this study is the first to reveal a new mechanism underlying the development of TAO and provides new directions for future TAO research.
Pathological changes in the spleen of mice subjected to different time courses of restraint stress
Authors: Lei Lei , Li Yingmin , Li Meili , Xin Hongjian , Tian Xiaofei , Zhang Yifan , Shi Weibo , Cong Bin
Published: June 2024

The objective of this study was to investigate spleen pathology and immune cell subset alterations in mice exposed to acute and chronic restraint stress over various timeframes. A deeper understanding of stress-induced spleen injuries can provide new insights into the mechanisms underlying stress-induced disorders. C57BL/6N mice were restrained for different durations (1, 3, 7, 14 and 21 days) for 6–8 h daily. The control mice were observed at the same time points. Post restraint, behavioural experiments were conducted to assess spleen weight, gross morphology and microscopic histological changes. Immunohistochemical staining was used to detect changes in glucocorticoid receptor (GR) expression, immune cell subsets and cell proliferation in response to stress. Our analysis revealed significant behavioural abnormalities in the stressed mice. In particular, there was an increase in the nuclear expression of GR beginning on Day 3, and it peaked on Day 14. The spleens of stressed mice displayed a reduction in size, disordered internal tissue structure and reduced cell proliferation. NK cells and M2-type macrophages exhibited immune cell subset alterations under stress, whereas T or B cells remained unaltered. Restraint stress can lead to pathomorphological alterations in spleen morphology, cell proliferation and immune cell counts in mice. These findings suggest that stress-induced pathological changes can disrupt immune regulation during stress.
Modulation of serotonin transporter expression by escitalopram under inflammation
Authors: Mena Sergio , Cruikshank Allison , Best Janet , Nijhout H. F. , Reed Michael C. , Hashemi Parastoo
Published: June 2024

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are widely used for depression based on the monoamine deficiency hypothesis. However, the clinical use of these agents is controversial, in part because of their variable clinical efficacy and in part because of their delayed onset of action. Because of the complexities involved in replicating human disease and clinical dosing in animal models, the scientific community has not reached a consensus on the reasons for these phenomena. In this work, we create a theoretical hippocampal model incorporating escitalopram’s pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics (competitive and non-competitive inhibition, and serotonin transporter (SERT) internalization), inflammation, and receptor dynamics. With this model, we simulate chronic oral escitalopram in mice showing that days to weeks are needed for serotonin levels to reach steady-state. We show escitalopram’s chemical efficacy is diminished under inflammation. Our model thus offers mechanisms for how chronic escitalopram affects brain serotonin, emphasizing the importance of optimized dose and time for future antidepressant discoveries.
Novel FFPE proteomics method suggests prolactin induced protein as hormone induced cytoskeleton remodeling spatial biomarker
Authors: Faktor Jakub , Kote Sachin , Bienkowski Michal , Hupp Ted R. , Marek-Trzonkowska Natalia
Published: June 2024

Robotically assisted proteomics provides insights into the regulation of multiple proteins achieving excellent spatial resolution. However, developing an effective method for spatially resolved quantitative proteomics of formalin fixed paraffin embedded tissue (FFPE) in an accessible and economical manner remains challenging. We introduce non-robotic In-insert FFPE proteomics approach, combining glass insert FFPE tissue processing with spatial quantitative data-independent mass spectrometry (DIA). In-insert approach identifies 450 proteins from a 5 µm thick breast FFPE tissue voxel with 50 µm lateral dimensions covering several tens of cells. Furthermore, In-insert approach associated a keratin series and moesin (MOES) with prolactin-induced protein (PIP) indicating their prolactin and/or estrogen regulation. Our data suggest that PIP is a spatial biomarker for hormonally triggered cytoskeletal remodeling, potentially useful for screening hormonally affected hotspots in breast tissue. In-insert proteomics represents an alternative FFPE processing method, requiring minimal laboratory equipment and skills to generate spatial proteotype repositories from FFPE tissue.
Mechanoactivated amorphization and photopolymerization of styryldipyryliums
Authors: Usuba Junichi , Sun Zhenhuan , Nguyen Han P. Q. , Raju Cijil , Schmidt-Rohr Klaus , Han Grace G. D.
Published: June 2024

Conventional topochemical photopolymerization reactions occur exclusively in precisely-engineered photoactive crystalline states, which often produces high-insoluble polymers. To mitigate this, here, we report the mechanoactivation of photostable styryldipyrylium-based monomers, which results in their amorphization-enabled solid-state photopolymerization and produces soluble and processable amorphous polymers. A combination of solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance, X-ray diffraction, and absorption/fluorescence spectroscopy reveals the crucial role of a mechanically-disordered monomer phase in yielding polymers via photo-induced [2 + 2] cycloaddition reaction. Hence, mechanoactivation and amorphization can expand the scope of topochemical polymerization conditions to open up opportunities for generating polymers that are otherwise difficult to synthesize and analyze.
Relationship between adolescent anemia and school attendance observed during a nationally representative survey in India
Authors: De Neve Jan-Walter , Karlsson Omar , Rai Rajesh Kumar , Kumar Santosh , Vollmer Sebastian
Published: June 2024

Background

Anemia has been suggested to be related with schooling outcomes in India. Less is known, however, about whether the observed relationship persists after accounting for all household-level factors which may confound the association between anemia and schooling.

Methods

Nationally representative data on adolescents aged 15–18 years with data on measured hemoglobin level and school attendance were extracted from India’s National Family Health Surveys conducted between 2005 and 2021. We compared school attendance between adolescents living in the same household but with varying levels of hemoglobin concentration, while controlling for age and period effects. We assessed heterogeneity in the relationship between anemia and school attendance across anemia severity groups and socio-demographic characteristics.

Results

The proportion of adolescents with any anemia is 55.2% (95% CI: 55.0–55.5) among young women and 31.0% (95% CI: 30.6–31.5) among young men. In conventional (between-household) regression models, having any anemia is associated with a 2.5 percentage point reduction (95% CI: 2.1–2.8) in school attendance; however, in household fixed-effects models, anemia has qualitatively small and non-significant effects on school attendance. Our results are consistent using alternative model specifications as well as across anemia severity groups, genders, types of relationship to the household head, household wealth quintiles, and states and union territories in India.

Conclusions

This within-household analysis finds little evidence that anemia is associated with school attendance among adolescents in India. Observational studies likely overstate the connection between anemia and school attendance due to household factors that have not been accounted for.
Digital twin mathematical models suggest individualized hemorrhagic shock resuscitation strategies
Authors: Cannon Jeremy W. , Gruen Danielle S. , Zamora Ruben , Brostoff Noah , Hurst Kelly , Harn John H. , El-Dehaibi Fayten , Geng Zhi , Namas Rami , Sperry Jason L. , Holcomb John B. , Cotton Bryan A. , Nam Jason J. , Underwood Samantha , Schreiber Martin A. , Chung Kevin K. , Batchinsky Andriy I. , Cancio Leopoldo C. , Benjamin Andrew J. , Fox Erin E. , Chang Steven C. , Cap Andrew P. , Vodovotz Yoram
Published: June 2024

Background

Optimizing resuscitation to reduce inflammation and organ dysfunction following human trauma-associated hemorrhagic shock is a major clinical hurdle. This is limited by the short duration of pre-clinical studies and the sparsity of early data in the clinical setting.

Methods

We sought to bridge this gap by linking preclinical data in a porcine model with clinical data from patients from the Prospective, Observational, Multicenter, Major Trauma Transfusion (PROMMTT) study via a three-compartment ordinary differential equation model of inflammation and coagulation.

Results

The mathematical model accurately predicts physiologic, inflammatory, and laboratory measures in both the porcine model and patients, as well as the outcome and time of death in the PROMMTT cohort. Model simulation suggests that resuscitation with plasma and red blood cells outperformed resuscitation with crystalloid or plasma alone, and that earlier plasma resuscitation reduced injury severity and increased survival time.

Conclusions

This workflow may serve as a translational bridge from pre-clinical to clinical studies in trauma-associated hemorrhagic shock and other complex disease settings.
Atomic Interactions Solidified Through the Introduction of Cellulose Nanocrystals to Cementitious Matrix: a Theoretical Study at the Molecular Level
Authors: fattahi seyyed mohammad amin , Hashemi Seyed Amir Hossein , Farokhzad Reza , Delnavaz Ali
Published: June 2024

Cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) have been proven to be an effective additive to the cementitious mixes, reforming the pore structure and boosting the hydration process, significantly boosting the mechanical properties of...
Effects of chain lengths and backbone chirality on the bone-targeting ability of poly(glutamic acid)s
Authors: Xia Jianglong , Wang Wanying , Jin Xiaoxiong , Zhao Jing , Chen Jiaoyu , Li Ning , Xiao Shanshan , Lin Dongjun , Song Ziyuan
Published: June 2024

The in vitro and in vivo bone-targeting ability of poly(glutamic acid)s is highly dependent on their chain lengths rather than backbone chirality, with shorter polypeptides exhibiting a higher bone-targeting effect.
Unveiling the dye adsorption capability of Moringa oleifera functionalized hybrid porous MOF–GO composites: in vitro and in silico ecotoxicity assessment via antibacterial and molecular docking studies
Authors: K. Anil Kumar , Bisoi Arpit , M. Yeshwanth , Shobham  , Jujaru Mohan , Panwar Jitendra , Gupta Suresh
Published: June 2024

Sustainable and eco-friendly MOF–GO functionalized composites demonstrated high adsorption capacity for dye removal from wastewater, offering an environmentally friendly solution.
Effects of long-term intake of carotenoid-enriched eggs on healthy people: a randomized controlled study
Authors: Lu Yifei , Hao Yoong Jun , Zhou Xin , Huang Feilin , Li Chao , Wang Jiao , Miao Zhiyue , Chen Shiqing , Zhang Yihan , Pan Zhenyu , Yin Shiyu , Li Ying , Sun Guiju
Published: June 2024

Red palm oil, a natural repository abundant in tocotrienols, tocopherols and carotenoids, is frequently employed as a pigment and nutritional enhancer in food products.
Self-healing, injectable chitosan-based hydrogels: structure, properties and biological applications
Authors: J. Manasi Esther , Solanki Raghu , Dhanka Mukesh , Thareja Prachi , Bhatia Dhiraj
Published: June 2024

Conventional biomaterials suffer from mechanical stresses and biochemical degradation, compromising performance and structural integrity.
Shellac-mediated laser-induced reduced graphene oxide film on paper and fabric: exceptional performance in flexible fuel cell, supercapacitor and electrocardiography applications
Authors: Kumar Pavar Sai , S. Vanmathi , Awasthi Himanshi , Khan Imran , Singh Ritesh Kumar , Sharma Vimal Kumar , Pramanik Chandrani , Goel Sanket
Published: June 2024

Natural biopolymer (shellac and dewaxed shellac) supported one-step laser-induced conductive rGO patterns (lowest sheet resistance of ∼2.3 Ω Sq.−1). Enormous potential applications in wearable, flexible, energy storage and biomedical fields.
Effect of gamma irradiation on the electrical and optical properties of PEVA composite membrane embedded with conductive copper fluoroborate glass powder
Authors: Kamoun Elbadawy A. , Sallam O. I. , Khozemy Ehab E. , Morsy Mohamed , Al-Faiyz Yasair , Matar Saleh M. , Ali Ahmed I. , Son Jong Yeog , Ramzy Galal H.
Published: June 2024

Effect of gamma irradiation on optical bandgap of PEVA/glass-powder membranes.
Unraveling nanosprings: morphology control and mechanical characterization
Authors: Yang Dahai , Huang Rui , Zou Bolin , Wang Ruoxu , Wang Yong , Ang Edison Huixiang , Song Xiaohui
Published: June 2024

Recent evaluations of nanospring synthesis methods, mechanical properties, simulations, and applications are analyzed. Future perspectives focus on molecular engineering, advanced synthesis & characterizations, and machine learning.
Exciton annihilation and diffusion length in disordered multichromophoric nanoparticles
Authors: Gharbi Amira Mounya , Biswas Deep Sekhar , Crégut Olivier , Malý Pavel , Didier Pascal , Klymchenko Andrey , Léonard Jérémie
Published: June 2024

The unbiased fluorescence monitoring of exciton–exciton annihilation kinetics reveals an exciton diffusion length exceeding 70 nm in highly concentrated, disordered, dye-loaded organic nanoparticles.
Enhancing the binding of calix[5]arene containers for ferrocenes by a fluorophobic effect through the release of high-energy perfluoro-1-iodoalkanes
Authors: Xing Jiabin , Lin Qihan , Zhuang Sheng-Yi , Wu Gang , Zhang Jiangshan , Wang Hui , Zhang Dan-Wei , Li Zhan-Ting
Published: June 2024

The release of high-energy perfluoro-1-iodohexane molecules has been demonstrated as a major driving force for enhanced binding between calix[5]arene containers and ferrocene guests.
Nanomaterials-modified reverse osmosis membranes: a comprehensive review
Authors: Ahmed Mahmoud A. , Mahmoud Safwat A. , Mohamed Ashraf A.
Published: June 2024

Because of its great efficiency and widespread application, reverse osmosis (RO) is a popular tool for water desalination and purification.
A fabric-based hydrovoltaic electricity generator with multi-component carbon black for sustainable energy output
Authors: Liu Yahua , Xiao Bingzhong , Wei Quanmao , Yuan Zichao , Song Wenzhuo , Zhou Ling , Ge Wenna
Published: June 2024

Multi-component carbon black enhanced oxygen-containing functional density through a synergistic effect. The FWEG could generate electricity without any additional energy input and could be readily integrated to directly power calculators.
Exploring the impact of trifluoromethyl (–CF3) functional group on the anti-cancer activity of isoxazole-based molecules: design, synthesis, biological evaluation and molecular docking analysis
Authors: Pattanayak Paramita , Nikhitha Sripathi , Halder Debojyoti , Ghosh Balaram , Chatterjee Tanmay
Published: June 2024

The effect of –CF3 functional group on the enhancement of anti-breast cancer activity of isoxazole based molecules against MCF-7 is demonstrated.
Investigation on structure and photoluminescence properties of Ho3+ doped Ca3(VO4)2 phosphors for luminescent devices
Authors: Singh Vijay , Bhat Aadil Ahmad , Radha M. , Seshadri M. , Nandyala Sooraj H. , Joo Ji Bong
Published: June 2024

This study focuses on the synthesis and characterization of Ho3+ doped Ca3(VO4)2 phosphors for potential application in solid-state lighting technology as a green phosphor.
Superior performance of silicon nanowires@void@carbon on a conductive substrate as a scalable binder-free anode electrode for lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Yasoubi Mohammadreza , Habibi Alireza , Hoornam Soraya , Sanaee Zeinab , Mohajerzadeh Shams
Published: June 2024

First report on silicon-nanowires@void@carbon grown on a conductive substrate through a scalable fabrication process, with excellent specific capacity, cycle life, and rate performance.
Ultrafast carrier recombination in a BC6N/SnXY Z-scheme heterostructure for water splitting: insights from ground- and excited-state carrier dynamics
Authors: Zong Jingshan , He Cheng , Zhang Wenxue
Published: June 2024

This study shows BC6N/SnSe2 as a Z-type heterostructure with ultrafast interlayer recombination, exhibiting enhanced OER reactivity in aqueous environments using the implicit solvent model.
Internal electric field promoted charge separation via bismuth-based ternary heterojunctions with near-infrared light harvesting properties for efficient photoredox reactions
Authors: Chava Rama Krishna , Im Younghwan , Kang Misook
Published: June 2024

This study highlights the single-step growth of Bi/Bi2WO6/Bi2S3 on CdS nanorods and their built-in electric field modulated charge separation toward a UV-vis-NIR driven photocatalytic H2 evolution reaction.
SERS hotspot engineering using external field assembly of a plasmonic magnetic nanocomposite with high sensitivity and uniformity
Authors: Sun Zhenli , Wang Ning , Zhang Yiyan , Ji Xunlong , Hong Zijin , Xie Dan , Zhang Wentao , Liu Wenjing , Du Jingjing
Published: June 2024

A novel approach to optimizing SERS signals by utilizing magnetically responsive substrates is presented. Emphasizing the role of external magnetic fields in optimizing signal enhancement through meticulously engineered magnetic nanoarchitectures.
Portable smartphone-enabled dydrogesterone sensors based on biomimetic polymers for personalized gynecological care
Authors: Ashraf Sobia , Hussain Tajamal , Bajwa Sadia Zafar , Mujahid Adnan , Afzal Adeel
Published: June 2024

This study introduces a novel portable electrochemical sensor integrated with smartphone technology, using biomimetic polymers to accurately and affordably detect dydrogesterone in human plasma for personalized gynecological care.
Enhanced photochromic performance of Zn-doped W18O49-based films for smart windows
Authors: Ma Tingfeng , Li Bin , Zhu Yongkang , Wu Senwei , Zhao Xiujian , Chu Xinhong , Tian Shouqin
Published: June 2024

4 at% Zn-doped W18O49-based bilayer films exhibited excellent photochromic performance in ultra-high luminescence transmittance of 85.33%, good solar modulation efficiency of 47.18%, excellent cycling stability and good recovery ability.
Enhancing the efficiency and stability of ZnSe pure blue quantum dot light-emitting diodes via ionic liquid doping
Authors: Lin Lihua , Ye Xiaoxue , Luo Zhiqi , Chen Weiguo , Guo Tailiang , Hu Hailong , Li Fushan
Published: June 2024

The novel ionic liquid (IL) salt BMIMPF6 doping TFB elevates the work functions and surface potentials of the TFB HTL, and promotes effective charge transfer within the QDs, resulting in a significant improvement in device performance.
Structural optimization and engineering of InxGa1−xN quantum dot intermediate band solar cells with intrinsic GaN interlayers
Authors: Eric Deborah , Jiang Jianliang , Imran Ali , Khan Abbas Ahmad
Published: June 2024

We proposed an optical structure to enhance photoelectric efficiency by optimizing 1 nm i-GaN layers to compensate for lattice mismatch from the In0.5Ga0.5N/GaN layer and absorb excess strain, boosting efficiency.
Robust generalised predictive position control for chain‐type rotary shell magazine with disturbance observer
Authors: Zhou Guangzu , Qian Linfang , Zou Quan , Sun Le , Wei Kai
Published: June 2024

The realisation of fast position tracking control and strong robust control of the chain‐type rotary shell magazine in the complex systems such as the large calibre howitzer has been the focus and challenge of research. The predictive control strategies can achieve a fast dynamic response, but it relies on the system model. By integrating the generalised predictive control method with sliding mode theory, a novel robust generalised predictive position control method is proposed. Firstly, a non‐cascade position tracking controller is designed based on the continuous‐time model of the systems; then, a sliding mode compensation structure is introduced to address the degradation of control performance due to load variations and external disturbances. The scheme utilises the sliding mode switching term to overcome the effects caused by the disturbances while preserving the fast dynamic response characteristics of the original predictive control. Moreover, the disturbance observer is designed to further enhance the robustness by producing corresponding compensation according to the perturbation quantity. The proposed controller has been validated in a shell magazine test bench, indicating its superior position control performance of the shell magazine under different load conditions.
High‐performance sulphur dioxide sensor: Unveiling the potential of photonic crystal fibre technology
Authors: Ferdous A. H. M. Iftekharul , Mynuddin Md. , Noor Khalid Sifulla
Published: June 2024

The authors present an innovative photonic crystal fibre (PCF) detector that has the ability to detect sulphur dioxide (SO2) gas. This deadly gas having no tone at all with a strong aroma. Our suggested sensor is designed with heptagonal cladding along with octagonal core. It displays exclusive performance in detecting SO2 with an elevated relative sensitivity (RS). The max RS for this sensor is 87.39% with a tiny Confinement Loss of 6.8194 × 10−4 dB/m and having a total loss of 1.80609 × 10−2 dB/m at optimum frequency of 1.8 THz. Suggested PCF sensor also has effective material loss of 0.017379 cm−1 and effective area of 5.39710 × 10−8 m2. Among the principal air pollutants that can irritate and make respiration tough is SO2 and prolonged exposure could be a factor in permanent breathing problems. It also contributes to the development of acid rain, which damages aquatic environments. Therefore, it becomes necessary to detect this harmful gas and that can be effectively done with the proposed PCF sensor. The suggested PCF sensor can be crucial to minimise the air pollution rate. It will play a vital role for the improvement of human health safety from this deadly element.
Impact of Long-Term Camel Milk Consumption on Hepatic and Renal Biomarkers of Camel Nomads—An Observational Cross-Sectional Study from Southern Punjab, Pakistan
Authors: Khan Maria , Akhtar Saeed , Akram Iqra , Rehman Asher Abdur , Ismail Tariq
Published: June 2024

Objectives Camel milk is gaining popularity worldwide owing to its unique biochemical composition and therapeutic benefits. In persona to available data on camel milk's potential health attributes against noncommunicable diseases, this study examined camel milk's effect on hepatic and renal biomarkers of milk consumers.

Materials and Methods An observational cross-sectional study was conducted on 51 camel nomads in the periurban areas of South Punjab, Pakistan. Structured questionnaire based on sociodemographic, dietary assessment, and blood sampling was done following simple random sampling technique to evaluate hematological, hepatic, and renal biomarkers.

Results The results indicate hematological parameters including mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH), mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC), and mean corpuscular volume (MCV) to vary significantly between camel and cow milk consumers. Comparatively higher mean values of MCH, MCHC, and MCV, that is, 29.55 pg, 32.76 g/dL, and 89.61 fL, respectively, in male camel milk consumers than in females of the same group were observed. Camel milk consumption for the extended duration was found to anticipate significantly (p < 0.05) higher total serum protein contents, 17.38 g/dL in males and 15.23 g/dL in females than observed in cow milk consumers.

Conclusion The study validates that camel milk chronic consumption impacts some hematological changes to a significant level while indicating nonsignificant changes in renal and hepatic markers. Our study entertained sample population from one camel rearing region of the country. To better understand preventive and therapeutic properties of camel milk consumption against hepatic or renal disorders, sample populations from different regions may be enrolled and monitored for camel milk consumption, dietary patterns, and disease prevalence.
Minimal Access Retromandibular Approach to Fractures of Vertical Segment of the Mandible: A Versatile Technique
Authors: Munoli Amarnath V. , Mayekar Sarika , Mukati Prachir , Jagannathan Mukund
Published: June 2024

Introduction Fractures of the condylar region of the mandible, although fairly common, also generate the most debate regarding management—both closed and open treatment options have been recommended and shown to yield good results. We present our experience with a minimal access retromandibular approach to fractures of the vertical mandible.

Materials and Methods This is a retrospective study of all patients who underwent open reduction and internal fixation for fractures of the vertical mandible (condyle, subcondylar region, ramus) using a retromandibular approach at a tertiary care hospital in a metropolitan city in India between January 2022 and July 2023. All fractures were approached using a standard technique through a retromandibular incision and a transparotid route. The proximal segment was mobilized, reduced, and fixed to the ramus with two 2-mm miniplates—one along the posterior border and the other along the sigmoid notch border. Postoperative guiding elastics were placed for 2 weeks without any rigid maxillomandibular fixation. Patients were followed at weekly intervals for 1 month followed by monthly visits for 6 months. At each visit, mouth opening, occlusion, and facial nerve function were assessed. Scar quality was assessed by both examiner and patient using the Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale (POSAS) scoring system.

Results A total of 25 subcondylar fractures in 20 patients were fixed using the retromandibular approach. Nineteen were male and 1 was female. The etiology of trauma was road accident (8), fall from train (2), fall from height (5) and assault (5). Fifteen patients had unilateral fractures while 5 had bilateral fractures. All patients had concomitant fractures of the mandibular arch which were also fixed. The interval between trauma and surgery ranged from 5 to 28 days. All patients had premature molar contact on the side of fracture with anterior open bite. Mouth opening ranged from 1.5 to 2.5 cm. All the fractures could be fixed using the retromandibular approach. None of the patients developed any facial nerve dysfunction or salivary leak. The occlusion was restored to pretrauma status in all patients and was stable at 6 months' follow-up. Mouth opening ranged from 3.5 to 4 cm. The POSAS observer score ranged from 09 to 19 with a mean score of 12.7. The POSAS patient score ranged from 17 to 28 with a mean score of 20.3 revealing that all patients were extremely happy with the scar.

Conclusion The minimal access retromandibular approach to the vertical mandible is a versatile technique enabling accurate reduction and fixation of fractures of the vertical segment of the mandible with good long-term functional and cosmetic results.
SPECT/CT in the Diagnosis of Ectopic Gastric Mucosa-Meckel's Diverticulum
Authors: Koç Zehra Pınar , Özcan Pınar Pelin , Tuncel Ferah , İsbir Caner , Usta Yusuf
Published: June 2024

Aim The imaging of Meckel's diverticulum (MD) is based of accumulation of Tc-99m pertechnetate in the ectopic gastric mucosa (EGM) content. Although the diagnostic accuracy of this imaging modality is high, there are some overlap patients with coexisting gastrointestinal bleeding and false positive causes hampering diagnostic power. The aim of this study was to evaluate the possible contribution of single-photon emission computed tomography/computed tomography (SPECT/CT) in EGM-MD diagnosis and to determine the indication of this additional imaging modality.

Materials and Methods Fifty-two pediatric patients (24 girls, 28 boys; mean age: 8.06 ± 5.22 years old) who have suspicion of MD and referred for scintigraphy were evaluated retrospectively. Additional SPECT/CT were performed to selected five cases among the group. The results of the scintigraphy as well as SPECT/CT were compared with endoscopy, pathology, and/or follow-up results.

Results There were 9 patients with equivocal study results, 12 positive results, and the others were considered negative MD scintigraphy. One patient was out of follow-up and 10 patients underwent surgery. Only one single patient was negative during surgery but scintigraphy was also negative. The diagnostic sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy were 100, 95, and 96%, respectively. Among five patients with SPECT/CT results one patient was diagnosed by only SPECT/CT who had EGM in duplication cyst, one equivocal patient was diagnosed as descending colon bleeding, and one patient's lesion was clearly delineated by SPECT/CT.

Conclusion SPECT/CT has clear advantage over standard planar scintigraphy imaging in EGM-MD determination. This modality might decrease equivocal and false positive results but this issue has to be addressed with further studies.
Time-varying interrelations between digitalization and human capital in Vietnam
Authors: Huyen Nguyen Thi Thanh , Chuong Pham Hong , Ha Nguyen Thi Thu , Thanh To Trung , Ha Le Thanh
Published: June 2024

In this study, we use a time-varying parameter vector autoregression in conjunction with the extended joint connectedness approach (TVPVAR-EJC) to examine the interrelationships among five variables, namely digitalization measured by the number of individuals using the Internet (% of the population), mobile cellular subscriptions (per 100 people), human capital index, CO2 emissions, and GDP, from 1996 to 2019 in Vietnam. Net total directional connectedness of digitalization and other variables suggests that it consistently acts as a net shock transmitter, whereas human capital was found to be a net receiver of corresponding shocks from 1997 to 2019. The emission of CO2 was a net critical receiver in 1998 but remained as a net transmitter for the rest of the period. Pairwise connectedness reveals that digitalization appeared as a net shock transmitter in connection with the human capital index and GDP. In the relationship with human capital, digitalization’s role was critical.
Pollution reduction by rationalization hypothesis and water pollution in China
Authors: Song Tao
Published: June 2024

This paper empirically investigates pollution reduction by rationalization hypothesis in China. We study the heterogeneous firm’s export effect on water pollution in China. We use China’s firm-level data from 2000 to 2012 to estimate the firm’s heterogeneity of export effect, composition effect, and technique effect on water pollution. We find that intra-industry agglomeration produces a competition effect, and more productive firms can export with less polluted water. More productive firms can export with less polluted water by reallocating more productive labor from dirty firms. We find an inverted U-shaped relationship between a firm’s productivity and water pollution. Intra-industry agglomeration drives up labor productivity; higher productive firms export while producing more polluted water initially. When a firm’s productivity is increasing, export activity produces less polluted water. More export induces less water pollution for high productivity firms. We conclude that the mechanism of pollution reduction by rationalization hypothesis does exist for water pollution in China. Trade liberalization causes some firms to become cleaner, even though we observe relatively clean exporting firms and relatively dirty domestic producers at different productivity stages. Productivity-induced rationalization causes water pollution to fall with high firm productivity. Water pollution in different regions has disparities. Eastern area in China is more likely to produce more polluted water than the rest of China.
Demand and satisfaction analysis of short health videos among Chinese urban youth: A mixed-methods study based on the KANO model
Authors: Xie Zehang , Li Wu , Xie Yunxiang , Wang Lingbo
Published: June 2024

Short videos have become a powerful medium in health communication. This study explores the information needs and satisfaction of Chinese urban youth regarding short health videos, guided by the KANO model. The research was conducted in four stages: text mining, online survey, demand analysis, and emotional strategy analysis. During the text mining stage, we used GooSeeker software to extract 26,108 health-tagged short video entries from Douyin and identified 21 unique themes through a collinear network analysis. In the online survey stage, we gathered data on urban youth’s preferences for these themes. Using the KANO model and Better-Worse analysis in the demand analysis stage, we categorized health video demands and gained insights into the preferred content. In the emotional strategy analysis stage, we examined how different emotional strategies like appeals to fear and hope influenced content effectiveness. Findings show that content related to health science, tea drinking, popular news, and food safety significantly enhances satisfaction. Conversely, information on refuting rumors, epidemic prevention, and control, as well as authoritative views, tends to lower satisfaction, possibly due to a trust crisis caused by a mismatch between demand and supply. This study suggests that content creators can boost engagement and satisfaction by focusing on preferred themes. It also highlights the varying impacts of information sources and emotional strategies on the health video preferences of Chinese urban youth. The insights from this research provide a foundation for user-centric content creation and platform development in health communication.
Computational toolbox makes microneurography analysis techniques widely available
Authors: Thompson Avery
Published: June 2024

Open-source, comprehensive suite of analysis tools provides standardized data and analytics, increases potential for collaboration.
Overseeing eyesight: Decoding visual stimuli from neural signals
Authors: Shapiro Maura
Published: June 2024

Electrical stimulation can artificially recreate visual stimuli, but developing the signals requires a mechanism to monitor them.
Growth of ultra-flat ultra-thin alkali antimonide photocathode films
Authors: Stam W. G. , Gaowei M. , Echeverria E. M. , Evans-Lutterodt Kenneth , Jordan-Sweet Jean , Juffmann T. , Karkare S. , Maxson J. , van der Molen S. J. , Pennington C. , Saha P. , Smedley J. , Tromp R. M.
Published: June 2024

Ultra-flat, ultra-thin alkali antimonide photocathodes with high crystallinity can exhibit high quantum efficiency and low mean transverse energy of outgoing electrons, which are essential requirements for a variety of applications for photocathode materials. Here, we investigate the growth of Cs3Sb on graphene-coated 4H–SiC (Gr/4H–SiC), 3C–SiC, and Si3N4 substrates. Sb is deposited using pulsed laser deposition, while Cs is deposited thermally and simultaneously. We demonstrate, employing x-ray analysis and quantum efficiency measurements, that this growth method yields atomically smooth Cs3Sb photocathodes with a high quantum efficiency (>10%), even in the ultra-thin limit (<30 nm). For the Si3N4 substrate, film growth is shown to be polycrystalline, while films grown on Gr/4H–SiC show a high degree of ordering with signs of epitaxy.
Transdermal microarrayed electroporation for enhanced cancer immunotherapy based on DNA vaccination
Authors: Wang Yuan , Qu Jin , Xiong Chuxiao , Chen Bing , Xie Kai , Wang Mingxue , Liu Zhen , Yue Zhao , Liang Zhenghua , Wang Feng , Zhang Tianlong , Zhu Guangyu , Kuang Yi Becki , Shi Peng
Published: June 2024

Despite the tremendous clinical potential of nucleic acid–based vaccines, their efficacy to induce therapeutic immune response has been limited by the lack of efficient local gene delivery techniques in the human body. In this study, we develop a hydrogel-based organic electronic device (μEPO) for both transdermal delivery of nucleic acids and in vivo microarrayed cell electroporation, which is specifically oriented toward one-step transfection of DNAs in subcutaneous antigen-presenting cells (APCs) for cancer immunotherapy. The μEPO device contains an array of microneedle-shaped electrodes with pre-encapsulated dry DNAs. Upon a pressurized contact with skin tissue, the electrodes are rehydrated, electrically triggered to release DNAs, and then electroporate nearby cells, which can achieve in vivo transfection of more than 50% of the cells in the epidermal and upper dermal layer. As a proof-of-concept, the μEPO technique is employed to facilitate transdermal delivery of neoantigen genes to activate antigen-specific immune response for enhanced cancer immunotherapy based on a DNA vaccination strategy. In an ovalbumin (OVA) cancer vaccine model, we show that high-efficiency transdermal transfection of APCs with OVA-DNAs induces robust cellular and humoral immune responses, including antigen presentation and generation of IFN-γ
+
cytotoxic T lymphocytes with a more than 10-fold dose sparing over existing intramuscular injection (IM) approach, and effectively inhibits tumor growth in rodent animals.
Conclusion
Authors: van Rooy Bertus , Kotze Haidee
Published: June 2024

This chapter synthesises the findings of the chapters in this volume and takes stock of cumulative insights
into constrained communication. It considers the effects of the individual constraint dimensions in respect of their
consequences for different aspects of language use, including cross-linguistic influence (CLI), degree of complexity and
explicitness, and norm adherence (or conservatism). It also reflects on the interaction of constraints and the implications of
the framework for such a hypothetical construct as a constrained variety. Key methodological developments and challenges are
outlined alongside a future agenda for the constrained communication research programme.
Dislocation-free two-dimensional concentric lateral heterostructures: MoS2–TaS2/Au(111)
Authors: Mehlich Kai , Ghorbani-Asl Mahdi , Sahm Daniel , Chagas Thais , Weber Daniel , Grover Catherine , Dombrowski Daniela , Krasheninnikov Arkady V , Busse Carsten
Published: June 2024

We prepared two-dimensional concentric lateral heterostructures of the monolayer transition metal dichalcogenides MoS2 and TaS2 by reactive molecular beam epitaxy on chemically inert and weakly interacting Au(111). The heterostructures are in a size regime where quantum confinement can be expected. Despite large lattice mismatch a seamless interconnection of the two materials has been achieved, confirming that the semiconducting core is fully enclosed by a metallic border around its circumference. The resulting strain is analyzed on the atomic scale using scanning tunneling microscopy, corroborated by calculations based on empirical potentials and compared to results from finite elements simulations.
Synthesis of multilayered h-BN film on the molten Ni–B and the influence of underneath W substrate
Authors: Zhu Yulin , Shi Zhiyuan , Ruan Yinjie , Yu Qingkai
Published: June 2024

High-quality two-dimensional hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN) film with tens of layers has been used as a universal substrate and capping layer for the van der Waals devices. Various approaches have been carried out for the synthesis of multilayered h-BN. Among them, the metal flux method is reliable in yielding h-BN crystals with high crystalline quality. However, this time- and energy-demanding method hinders its scale application. Herein, inspired by the metal flux method, we reported the time-effective growth of high-quality multilayered h-BN film (ca. 20 nm) on a molten Ni–B layer wetting on W substrate with chemical vapor deposition method. The film exhibits an excellent stacking sequence and a full-width at half maximum of the Raman E2g peak narrow to 9.5 cm−1. Cross-sectional high-resolution transmission electron microscopy and in-situ x-ray diffraction spectroscopy were carried out to investigate the crystal structure evolution of Ni–B layer wetting on W substrate. It is found that the low surface tension caused by the spreading of Ni–B alloy on the W substrate and the presence of the Ni subsurface may be responsible for the formation of multilayered h-BN with excellent crystalline quality. Meanwhile, the W diffusion in Ni–B-based melt can hinder the formation of h-BN under certain growth conditions. The approach demonstrates the feasibility of large-scale growth of multilayered h-BN, paving the way to future applications in van der Waals electronic and optoelectronic devices.
Quadrupolar and dipolar excitons in symmetric trilayer heterostructures: insights from first principles theory
Authors: Deilmann Thorsten , Sommer Thygesen Kristian
Published: June 2024

Excitons in van der Waals heterostructures come in many different forms. In bilayer structures, the electron and hole may be localized on the same layer or they may be separated forming an interlayer (IL) exciton with a finite out-of-plane dipole moment. Using first principles calculations, we investigate the excitons in a symmetric WS2/MoS2/WS2 heterostructure in the presence of a vertical electric field. The excitons exhibit a quadratic Stark shift for low field strengths and a linear Stark shift for stronger fields. This behavior is traced to the coupling of IL excitons with opposite dipole moments, which lead to the formation of quadrupolar excitons at small fields. The formation of quadrupolar excitons is determined by the relative size of the electric field-induced splitting of the dipolar excitons and the coupling between them given by the hole tunneling across the MoS2 layer. For the inverted structure, MoS2/WS2/MoS2, the dipolar excitons are coupled by electron tunneling across the WS2 layer. Because this effect is much weaker, the resulting quadrupolar excitons are more fragile and break at a weaker electric field.