bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Thermoelectric properties of La1.96Sr0.04CuO4 for energy harvesting and storage applications
Authors: Saif Mohd , Tripathi D. 
Published: December 2023

AbstractThe polycrystalline pellet of La2‐xSrxCuO4 with x = 0.04, has been sintered using the solid‐state reaction process. X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) have been carried out for microstructural characterizations. The transport properties (electrical and thermal) of La2‐xSrxCuO4 for x = 0.04 have been investigated in the temperature range between 15 and 300 K with the aid of a closed‐cycle refrigerator (CCR). The DC four‐probe resistivity measurement confirms a decrease in resistivity with increasing temperature below 200 K. However, above 200 K, an increase in resistivity with temperature (metallic behaviour) has been noticed due to charge carrier localization. The Hall measurement conveys hole‐type conduction and phonon‐dominated mobility with carrier concentration ~1018/cm3, which lie somewhere between non‐degenerate and degenerate limit. The Seebeck coefficient also confirms hole type conduction and its temperature dependence can be explained in the light of the model applicable for mixed‐valence heavy fermions systems. The steady‐state method for thermal conductivity measurement has been employed. The plot of thermal conductivity (λ) as a function of temperature (T) shows a hump‐like structure at around 65 K, which may be attributed to an increase in the quasi‐particle mean free path. Further, the electronic and lattice (phononic) contributions to thermal conductivity have been separated using electrical conductivity data with the help of the Wiedemann‐Franz law. Our analysis confirms the phononic dominance in the thermal conductivity of the investigated sample. The figure of merit (ZT) estimated from the experimental data has a maximum value of 0.086 at 290 K and hence shows its inherent energy harvesting properties that can further be stored in a battery or capacitor.
A comparative effectiveness trial of functional behavioral assessment methods
Authors: Call Nathan A. , Bernstein Alec M. , O'Brien Matthew J. , Schieltz Kelly M. , Tsami Loukia , Lerman Dorothea C. , Berg Wendy K. , Lindgren Scott D. , Connelly Mark A. , Wacker David P. 
Published: December 2023

AbstractClinicians report primarily using functional behavioral assessment (FBA) methods that do not include functional analyses. However, studies examining the correspondence between functional analyses and other types of FBAs have produced inconsistent results. In addition, although functional analyses are considered the gold standard, their contribution toward successful treatment compared with other FBA methods remains unclear. This comparative effectiveness study, conducted with 57 young children with autism spectrum disorder, evaluated the results of FBAs that did (n = 26) and did not (n = 31) include a functional analysis. Results of FBAs with and without functional analyses showed modest correspondence. All participants who completed functional communication training achieved successful outcomes regardless of the type of FBA conducted.
Long‐term outcomes after endoscopic submucosal dissection for colorectal epithelial neoplasms in patients with severe comorbidities
Authors: Hamada Yasuhiko , Ikenoyama Yohei , Umeda Yuhei , Yukimoto Hiroki , Shigefuku Akina , Fujiwara Yasuko , Beppu Tsuyoshi , Nakamura Misaki , Horiki Noriyuki , Nakagawa Hayato 
Published: December 2023

AbstractBackground and AimLong‐term outcomes after endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) for colorectal epithelial neoplasms (CENs) in patients with severe comorbidities have not been clarified; the current study aimed to examine these long‐term outcomes and compared them with those in patients with non‐severe comorbidities.MethodsWe included 231 patients with CENs who underwent ESD between April 2005 and March 2023. Patients with comorbidities were categorized according to the American Society of Anesthesiologists Physical Status (ASA‐PS). We conducted a propensity score‐matched analysis and compared long‐term outcomes of the two groups after ESD for CENs.ResultsOf the 156 patients enrolled in the study, 43 and 113 had severe (ASA‐PS III) and non‐severe (ASA‐PS I/II) comorbidities, respectively. The 1:1 propensity score analysis matched 36 patients with severe comorbidities to 36 patients with non‐severe comorbidities. After matching, there was no difference in the procedural outcomes of ESD between both groups. Regarding long‐term outcomes, the 5‐year overall survival rates after matching in the ASA‐PS I/II and III groups were 100% and 73.5%, respectively, and patients in the ASA‐PS III group exhibited significantly shorter overall survival than those in the ASA‐PS I/II group (hazard ratio 7.209; 95% confidence interval 1.592–32.646; P = 0.010). No colorectal cancer‐related deaths were noted in either group.ConclusionOverall survival after ESD for CENs was shorter in patients with severe comorbidities than in those with non‐severe comorbidities. Clinicians should carefully determine whether the benefits of CEN resection with ESD outweigh the procedural risks in patients with severe comorbidities.
Treatment‐naïve people living with HIV aged 50 years or older in Beijing, China, 2010–2020: joinpoint regression model analysis of surveillance data
Authors: Wang Duoduo , Zhou Mengge , Wang Peicheng , Zhang Jinjuan , Mi Yuanqi , Cheng Feng , Liu Jufen 
Published: December 2023

AbstractIntroductionAs they age, people living with HIV (PLWH) must face new challenges, such as accelerated ageing and higher rates of comorbidities. This study described the characteristics of HIV acquisition among treatment‐naïve PLWH aged ≥50 years and <50 years in Beijing from 2010 to 2020, exploring associated risk factors for comorbidities.MethodsIn this cross‐sectional study, differences in HIV‐related and non‐HIV‐related characteristics were compared using the t‐test, Mann−Whitney U test and chi‐square test. Temporal trend data were analysed via joinpoint regression. A multivariate logistic regression model was conducted to analyse the associated factors with PLWH having one or more comorbidities.ResultsThe proportion of PLWH aged ≥50 years has significantly increased since 2013, with a corresponding increase in homosexual transmission in this age group over the past decade. The proportion of individuals with CD4 counts <200 cells/μl significantly decreased from 2010 to 2013 among PLWH aged ≥50 years and from 2010 to 2014 among those aged <50 years. Delayed initiation of antiretroviral therapy (ART) improved for both age groups over the course of the decade, especially from 2014 to 2020. Compared to PLWH aged <50 years, those aged ≥50 years had a higher proportion of CD4 counts <200 cells/μl, higher levels of plasma HIV RNA load and a higher prevalence of non‐HIV‐related risk factors. Multivariate analysis revealed that PLWH aged ≥50, male, not single, transmission through heterosexual contact or drug injection, WHO Stage IV, coinfection with hepatitis B virus/hepatitis C virus and CD4 counts <200 cells/μl at the initiation of ART were associated with higher risk of the presence of an HIV comorbidity.ConclusionsDue to the persistent burden of HIV‐related characteristics or symptoms and the increasing prevalence of coexisting comorbidities among treatment‐naïve PLWH aged ≥50 years, physicians should provide the highest‐quality screening, prevention, treatment and management of coexisting comorbidities, adopting a multidisciplinary approach.
Stability of mpox virus on different commonly contacted surfaces
Authors: Li Fu , Shen Xiaona , Zhang Huijuan , Jin Haoyuan , Zhang Lin , Lv Bing , Li Weihong , Liang Zhichao , Zhang Xin , Zhang Daitao , Hou Xuexin , Pan Yang , Kan Biao , Wang Quanyi 
Published: December 2023

AbstractMpox is still spreading globally and is mostly reported to be transmitted by skin and mucosal contact. However, transmission through contact with fomites, contaminated objects, or surfaces has been reported in general population. Evaluation of the stability of mpox virus (MPXV) on different surfaces is important to minimize mpox transmission. In the study, the stability of MPXV on different kinds of commonly contacted surfaces was determined. MPXV was observed to have a surface‐dependent stability pattern. Viable virus was detected on both glass and stainless steel for up to 5 days, and on plastic surfaces for up to 3 days. In contrast, no viable MPXV was detected on wooden board and cardboard, which are porous and water‐absorbent surfaces, after 1 and 2 days of incubation, respectively. In addition, MPXV nucleic acids were more stable and showed better correlation with viral titers on stainless steel, plastic, and glass. The results indicate that fomite transmission of MPXV is plausible. Moreover, the stability of MPXV was highly surface‐dependent and more stable on smooth surfaces, which could provide more information for minimizing the transmission of mpox and emphasize the significance of environmental disinfection in mpox prevention and control.
Lipid profiling of electrosurgical vapors for real‐time assistance of soft tissue sarcoma resection
Authors: Vaysse Pierre‐Maxence , van den Hout Mari F. C. M. , Engelen Sanne M. E. , Keymeulen Kristien B. M. I. , Bemelmans Marc H. A. , Heeren Ron M. A. , Olde Damink Steven W. M. , Porta Siegel Tiffany 
Published: December 2023

AbstractBackgroundSoft tissue sarcomas (STS) constitute a heterogeneous group of rare tumor entities. Treatment relies on challenging patient‐tailored surgical resection. Real‐time intraoperative lipid profiling of electrosurgical vapors by rapid evaporative ionization mass spectrometry (REIMS) may aid in achieving successful surgical R0 resection (i.e., microscopically negative‐tumor margin resection). Here, we evaluate the ex vivo accuracy of REIMS to discriminate and identify various STS from normal surrounding tissue.MethodsTwenty‐seven patients undergoing surgery for STS at Maastricht University Medical Center+ were included in the study. Samples of resected STS specimens were collected and analyzed ex vivo using REIMS. Electrosurgical cauterization of tumor and surrounding was generated successively in both cut and coagulation modes. Resected specimens were subsequently processed for gold standard histopathological review. Multivariate statistical analysis (principal component analysis‐linear discriminant analysis) and leave‐one patient‐out cross‐validation were employed to compare the classifications predicted by REIMS lipid profiles to the pathology classifications. Electrosurgical vapors produced during sarcoma resection were analyzed in vivo using REIMS.ResultsIn total, 1200 histopathologically‐validated ex vivo REIMS lipid profiles were generated from 27 patients. Ex vivo REIMS lipid profiles classified STS and normal tissues with 95.5% accuracy. STS, adipose and muscle tissues were classified with 98.3% accuracy. Well‐differentiated liposarcomas and adipose tissues could not be discriminated based on their respective lipid profiles. Distinction of leiomyosarcomas from other STS could be achieved with 96.6% accuracy. In vivo REIMS analyses generated intense mass spectrometric signals.ConclusionLipid profiling by REIMS is able to discriminate and identify STS with high accuracy and therefore constitutes a potential asset to improve surgical resection of STS in the future.
The distorted entrepreneurial decision‐making of zombie firms
Authors: Gabriel Amadeus , Giménez Roche Gabriel A. 
Published: December 2023

AbstractQuantitative easing policies have resulted in a significant increase in credit, posing a threat to developed countries' economic stability. This research aims to analyze the impact of distorted interest rates and readily available capital on creating “zombie firms” in the context of Mises–Hayek's malinvestment theory. The study highlights the importance of understanding these factors to prevent firm failure and recommends limited intervention in interest rates and capital availability before crises. Additionally, the study advocates for implementing flexible insolvency regimes for insolvent firms post‐crisis to mitigate the risk of corporate zombification.
Favorable Outcome Perception in Facial Selective Neurectomy
Authors: Kaufman Goldberg Tal , Flynn John P. , Xiao Roy , Trzcinski Lauren O. , Hadlock Tessa A. 
Published: December 2023

AbstractObjectiveFacial selective neurectomy (SN) improves facial function by denervation of muscles antagonistic to the smile in nonflaccid facial paralysis (NFFP) patients. This study aims to assess whether and which objective facial function metrics affect favorable SN outcome in NFFP patients, as perceived by facial nerve (FN) practitioners.Study DesignRetrospective cohort study.SettingNFFP patients who underwent SN at the facial nerve center.MethodsStandardized preoperative and postoperative facial photographs of patients undergoing SN were analyzed using clinician‐graded measures (eFACE) and automated facial measurement (Emotrics). Favorable outcome was ranked subjectively by 3 independent FN practitioners. Correlations between objective metrics and favorable subjective outcome were examined.ResultsFifty‐eight SN cases were included. Oral commissure excursion with smile, interlabial distance, and lower lip movement were all considered statistically significantly important for favorable outcome perception. Each +1 mm of smile excursion increases the odds of a favorable outcome by 75.4% (odds ratio [OR]: 1.754). Each +1 mm of interlabial distance asymmetry decreases the odds of a favorable outcome by 24.7% (OR: 0.753). Each +1‐point change in lower lip movement eFACE score increases the odds of a favorable outcome by 2.7% (OR: 1.027).ConclusionSeveral smile metrics contribute to favorable SN outcome perception among FN practitioners. Smile excursion, interlabial distance, and lower lip movement were significant predictors of success. These observations may be extrapolated to other facial reanimation interventions and serve surgeons and patients during counseling and expectation management, and during surgery.
Production of a thermoplastic polyurethane/silver nanoparticles 3D filament with antiviral properties to combat SARS‐CoV‐2
Authors: Agnol Lucas Dall , Ornaghi Heitor Luiz , Ernzen Juliano Roberto , Faccio Maíra , Bianchi Otávio 
Published: December 2023

AbstractAntiviral agents present a propitious alternative to prevent pathogen transmission on various surfaces. In the present study, we successfully synthesized nanocomposites of thermoplastic polyurethanes with silver nanoparticles (TPU/AgNPs) via extrusion. To comprehensively evaluate their potential in antiviral applications, we conducted a thorough analysis of the nanocomposites, encompassing investigations into their chemical structure, physicochemical and mechanical properties, cytotoxicity, antibacterial activity, and antiviral efficacy. Remarkably, the incorporation of AgNPs had no discernible impact on the chemical structure of the materials, ensuring the preservation of essential properties. Moreover, the nanoparticles exhibited remarkable stability within the TPU matrix, with no detectable leaching of AgNPs observed in any of the studied nanocomposites. The nanocomposites demonstrated exceptional antibacterial efficiency, effectively inhibiting bacterial growth while concurrently revealing no cytotoxic effects in vitro for BALB/3 T3 cells. The antiviral performance against SARS‐CoV‐2 proved highly potent, achieving inactivation yields surpassing 99.0%. Leveraging these advantageous attributes, we harnessed the potential of TPU/AgNPs nanocomposites to produce various versatile products, such as cell phone cases and 3D‐printing filaments. In conclusion, this study underscores the immense promise of antiviral TPU/AgNPs nanocomposites, offering new insights into the domains of materials science and infection control, contributing to a healthier and safer future.
Investigation on the mechanical and fracture properties of lightweight pumice epoxy composites
Authors: Shahapurkar Kiran , Zelalem Yordanos Mengistu , Chenrayan Venkatesh , Soudagar Manzoore Elahi M. , Fouad Yasser , Kalam M. A. , Kiran M. C. 
Published: December 2023

AbstractPumice, which is prevalent in Ethiopia, is formed naturally during the quick cooling and solidifying of molten lava. Pumice is a naturally occurring mineral that, due to its high thermal resistance and lightweightness, can be an excellent candidate for reinforcing material for polymers. The present study investigates epoxy‐based composites reinforced with pumice particles by varying the pumice content (0, 10, 20, and 30 vol%). The densities of all composites reduce in comparison with neat epoxy as the volume proportion of pumice increases credited to the low density pumice particles. Tensile stress–strain curves depict neat epoxy with higher deformation than other pumice particulate‐filled composites in the linear elastic area followed by rapid brittle failure. Tensile modulus of all the composites increases in the range of 13%–67% in comparison with neat epoxy. The compressive characteristics of composites are greatly improved by the addition of pumice. Compressive moduli and specific compressive moduli of all composites increase with increasing volume fraction of pumice by 54%–58% and 65%–93%, respectively, in comparison with neat epoxy. The fracture toughness of P‐10, P‐20, and P‐30 composites improved by 18%, 54%, and 59%, respectively, as compared with neat epoxy mainly attributed to the foam‐like structure of pumice particles. SEM micrographs are used to analyze the morphology of compression‐tested specimens. Property mapping highlights the advantages of utilizing composites from present work over numerous syntactic foams.
High Voltage Ga‐Doped P2‐Type Na2/3Ni0.2Mn0.8O2 Cathode for Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Liu Huanqing , Hong Ningyun , Bugday Nesrin , Yasar Sedat , Altin Serdar , Deng Weina , Deng Wentao , Zou Guoqiang , Hou Hongshuai , Long Zhen , Ji Xiaobo 
Published: December 2023

AbstractNi/Mn‐based oxide cathode materials have drawn great attention due to their high discharge voltage and large capacity, but structural instability at high potential causes rapid capacity decay. How to moderate the capacity loss while maintaining the advantages of high discharge voltage remains challenging. Herein, the replacement of Mn ions by Ga ions is proposed in the P2‐Na2/3Ni0.2Mn0.8O2 cathode for improving their cycling performances without sacrificing the high discharge voltage. With the introduction of Ga ions, the relative movement between the transition metal ions is restricted and more Na ions are retained in the lattice at high voltage, leading to an enhanced redox activity of Ni ions, validated by ex situ synchrotron X‐ray absorption spectrum and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Additionally, the P2‐O2 phase transition is replaced by a P2‐OP4 phase transition with a smaller volume change, reducing the lattice strain in the c‐axis direction, as detected by operando/ex situ X‐ray diffraction. Consequently, the Na2/3Ni0.21Mn0.74Ga0.05O2 electrode exhibits a high discharge voltage close to that of the undoped materials, while increasing voltage retention from 79% to 93% after 50 cycles. This work offers a new avenue for designing high‐energy density Ni/Mn‐based oxide cathodes for sodium‐ion batteries.
Spin‐Selective Electron Transport Through Single Chiral Molecules
Authors: Safari Mohammad Reza , Matthes Frank , Schneider Claus M. , Ernst Karl‐Heinz , Bürgler Daniel E. 
Published: December 2023

AbstractThe interplay between chirality and magnetism is a source of fascination among scientists for over a century. In recent years, chirality‐induced spin selectivity (CISS) has attracted renewed interest. It is observed that electron transport through layers of homochiral molecules leads to a significant spin polarization of several tens of percent. Despite the abundant experimental evidence gathered through mesoscopic transport measurements, the exact mechanism behind CISS remains elusive. This study reports spin‐selective electron transport through single helical aromatic hydrocarbons that are sublimed in vacuo onto ferromagnetic cobalt surfaces and examined with spin‐polarized scanning tunneling microscopy (SP‐STM) at a temperature of 5 K. Direct comparison of two enantiomers under otherwise identical conditions revealed magnetochiral conductance asymmetries of up to 50% when either the molecular handedness is exchanged or the magnetization direction of the STM tip or Co substrate is reversed. Importantly, the results rule out electron–phonon coupling and ensemble effects as primary mechanisms responsible for CISS.
RETRACTED: DPM2 serve as novel oncogene and prognostic marker transactivated by ESR1 in breast cancer
Authors: Lu Jiahao , Feng Yuejiao , Zhou Yiting , Xiao Zengyou , Yang Zean , Li Jiaxian , Cai Han , Wang Jie 
Published: December 2023

AbstractBreast cancer (BRCA) is the most common malignancies worldwide with increasing rate. Dolichol phosphate mannose synthase (DPMS) is a critical mannosyltransferase involved in the posttranslational modification of proteins. At present, there is limited knowledge regarding the function of DPMS in breast cancer. In this study, silica analysis in multiple datasets found that dolichyl‐phosphate mannosyltransferase subunit 2 (DPM2) is an unfavorable prognostic marker, suggesting its oncogenic role. Cell counting kit‐8 and apoptosis assays show that DPM2‐silenced cancer cells exhibit decreased growth potential and enhanced cell death rate. Further, transwell and wound healing assays show reduced invasion and migration capabilities in DPM2 knockdown groups, xenograft nude mice model demonstrated smaller tumor volume in DPM2 silenced BC cells. Then, the underlying downstream mechanism of DPM2 in BC was predicted and analyzed, highlighting classical tumorigenic pathways like JAK/STAT signaling pathway and oxidative phosphorylation activated in the cancer group. Finally, ChIP‐seq analysis, expression correlation analysis, inhibitor treatment, and dual luciferase assays show that DPM2 is transcriptionally activated by estrogen receptor1 (ESR1). The results show that high expression of DPM2 mRNA is significantly correlated with shorter overall survival (OS) and disease‐free survival (DFS) in breast cancer patients, and in vitro knockdown of DPM2 can significantly inhibit the malignant phenotypes of cells, including proliferation, invasion, migration, and apoptosis. These results suggest that DPM2 may play an important role in breast cancer. Altogether, we first uncovered the tumorigenic and prognostic role of DPM2 in breast cancer, cellular assays, and bioinformatics analysis highlighted DPM2 as oncogene via inhibited cancer‐related signaling pathways in breast cancer. Besides, DPM2 is transcriptionally activated by ESR1, the signaling axis of ESR1/DPM2 provides a new strategy for BC‐targeted therapy.