bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Proximity induced charge density wave in graphene/1T-TaS2
Authors: Andrei Eva , Tilak Nikhil , Altvater Michael , Hung Sheng-Hsiung , Jeng Horng-Tay , Li Guohong , cheong Sang Wook , Chung Chung-Hou , Kaleem Taha , Won Choong-Jae 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

The proximity-effect, a phenomenon whereby materials in close contact appropriate each other’s electronic-properties, is widely used in nano-scale devices to induce electron-correlations at heterostructure interfaces. Commonly observed proximity-induced correlation-effects include superconductivity, magnetism, and spin-orbit interactions. Thus far, however, proximity induced charge density waves (CDW) have not been rigorously explored, primarily because of screening in 3D metals and defect scattering at interfaces. Here, we report the observation of a CDW proximity effect between graphene and the commensurate CDW in 1T-TaS2 (henceforth called TaS2 for brevity). Using scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) and spectroscopy (STS) together with theoretical modeling to probe the interface between graphene and a TaS2 crystal, we demonstrate the existence of a proximity induced CDW within graphene. Furthermore, we observe that graphene modifies the band structure at the surface of TaS2, by providing mid-gap carriers and reducing the strength of electron correlations there. We show that the mechanism underlying the proximity induced CDW is well-described by short-range exchange interactions that are distinctly different from previously observed proximity effects.
Resveratrol nanocrystals-based dissolving microneedles for rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Diao Ningning , Wang Wenxin , Cao Min , Liu Xiaowei , Yang Weili , Cao Yuxin , Sun Tianying , Pei Huijie , Guo Chunjing , Chen Daquan 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic destructive inflammatory synovitis that is associated with a wide range of clinical consequences, including comorbidities affecting systemic bone, vasculature, metabolic function, and cognition. Although Resveratrol (Res) has been shown to have pharmacological benefits in the treatment of RA, its limited bioavailability and poor water solubility have prevented clinical usage of this substance. Therefore, changing the crystalline form of Res to boost its solubility and bioavailability can thus significantly improve its therapeutic effect for RA. Based on this, in this study, the crystalline form of Res was milled into nanocrystals by media milling and loaded into soluble microneedles (MNs) prepared from high molecular weight hyaluronic acid by vacuum casting for the treatment of RA. This study addressed the shortcomings of poor water solubility and low bioavailability of Res, and meanwhile, the transdermal drug delivery system mediated by soluble MNs improved patient compliance and extended the duration of drug action in vivo, which provided a novel research idea for the treatment of RA.
Photo-curable thiol-ene / nanocellulose elastomeric composites for bio-inspired and fluorine-free superhydrophobic surfaces
Authors: Balkan Alper , Sola Enrico , Karasu Feyza , Leterrier Yves 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Cellulose nanofibrils are attractive candidate biomaterials for polymer composites owing to their superior characteristics compared to organic resins such as biocompatibility, biodegradability, process-induced anisotropy of the composite due to high aspect ratio, tunable surface chemistry and reinforcement capability; however, the wide-spread utilization of these bio-based materials remains limited, especially for applications involving photopolymerization. In this work, a photo-curable and free-flowing thiol-ene resin containing controlled concentrations of cellulose nanofibrils oxidized by 2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidine-N-oxyl (TEMPO) mediation (TOCNF) was prepared without dispersants or surfactants owing to surface modifications such as counter cation exchange of carboxyl and grafting of thiol and ene functional moieties. The rheological and photo-crosslinking behavior of the TOCNF suspensions, the thermal stability and the mechanical performance of the cured composite materials, and the hydrophobicity of lotus-replicated hierarchical surfaces were characterized. The composite suspensions were shear thinning with power law exponents around 0.3 and their photo-conversion profiles significantly varied based on the grafted surface functionality with thiol modifiers causing a lower curing rate than enes. The cured composites showed improved thermal resistance at elevated degradation temperatures above ~ 360°C, and outperformed the neat thiol-ene polymer in terms of hardness (x5.8) and reduced modulus (x3.4). Moreover, the surface of composites texturized with a lotus leaf pattern was superhydrophobic with a water contact angle of 155°, higher than that of the neat polymer (147°). These results are useful to obtain mechanically and thermally robust photo-cured elastomers as well as to explore the potential of such composite resins in manufacturing processes requiring rapid curing such as 3D printing and roll-to-roll processing.
A Bayesian Network Meta-Analysis to Explore Modifying Factors in Randomized Controlled Trials: What Works for Whom to Reduce Depression in Nursing Home Residents?
Authors: Declercq Ine J.N. , Leontjevas Ruslan , Verboon Peter , De Vriendt Patricia , Gerritsen Debby L. , Hooren Susan 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Background: Reviews of depression interventions in nursing home residents resulted in positive findings. However, because of the heterogeneity of the studies, it remains unclear what works for whom. Considering moderator effects may contribute to a comprehensive understanding of depression treatment in residents. Therefore, this study aims to review depression interventions, examining moderator effects of (1) residents’ factors, and (2) components specific of interventions.
Methods: A Bayesian network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials primarily aimed at reducing depressive symptoms among residents was conducted. First, intervention types, e.g., exercise interventions, were compared to care as usual. Second, meta-regression analyses were conducted for moderator effects of residents’ factors (i.e., severity of depressive symptoms, physical dependency, and cognitive impairment) and components identified as specific to an intervention (e.g., music, creativity, positivity).
Results: Our search across six databases resulted in 118 eligible studies: 16 on neurobiological interventions, 102 on non-pharmacological interventions. Compared to care as usual, cognitive interventions, such as cognitive behavioral therapy and goal-oriented therapy, showed the strongest effects (MD = -1.00, 95% CrI [-1.40 to -0.66]). Furthermore, the severity of depressive symptoms moderated the effect of interventions (ƅ = -0.63, CrI 95% [-1.04 to -0.22]), while none of fifteen identified intervention-specific components did. In residents with a depression diagnosis, there were larger effect sizes for interventions including daily structure, psychoeducation, healthy food, creativity, positivity, and an activating/encouraging environment , whereas interventions focusing on distraction and relaxation had larger effect sizes in those residents without.
Conclusions: By examining the moderator effects, we provided an integrative perspective on the observed variations in effects across different target groups, and components of depression interventions. This approach underscores the complex nature of interventions, emphasizing the need for continued transdisciplinary research, and the exploration of potential moderators. Future investigations should carefully assess residents’ factors and choose interventions and their components accordingly.
Temporally compounding energy droughts in European electricity systems with hydropower
Authors: Most Lieke van der , Wiel Karin van der , Gerbens-Leenes Winnie , Benders R.M.J. (René) , Bintanja Richard 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

As Europe's renewable energy capacities expand, electricity systems face increased risks of energy droughts—periods of low production coinciding with high demand. We evaluate characteristics of electricity variability due to weather variations by calculating 1600 years of daily production and demand. Focusing on six European countries—chosen for their energy mix including hydropower—we find that energy droughts result from processes that cause (temporally) compounding impacts in the energy and meteorological system. These can turn what might have been short-term droughts into prolonged, cumulative energy crises. For instance, low reservoir inflows in spring quadruple the chance of prolonged energy droughts: reduced snowpack and rainfall lower hydro-availability but also dry-out subsoils, increasing the chance of heatwaves and therewith extending the energy problems into summer. We identify and quantify three compounding energy/climate conditions and the associated characteristics and risks of multiyear energy droughts, crucial for future energy system design and policies.
Bioactive compounds, nutritive properties and adaptation of five seaweeds growing in Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh
Authors: Kamal Liza , Alam Mohammad Ashraful , Hossain Md Faruque , Rahman Asma , Ahmed Ashfaque 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

The study focused on evaluating the adaptation, nutrient properties, and bioactive compounds of five different seaweed species. Samples were collected in March 2023 from the Rezu Khal estuary, North Nuniachara and St. Martin’s Island on the western coast, Cox’s Bazar District, Bangladesh. The research found diverse nutrient properties, with varying concentrations of minerals like Na (42.08 to 245.43 mg/kg) and K (71.15 to 445.48 mg/kg) among the seaweeds. Hypnea musciformis and H. spinella have been found to accumulate more Na than K. Research showed fluctuating levels of heavy metals like Pb, Cr, Ni, and Cd, but they remained within tolerable limits, making these seaweeds non-toxic and suitable for consumption. The seaweed was found to be rich in bioactive compounds, including tannins, saponins, terpenoids, phenols, flavonoids, and steroids having industrial and medicinal applications. Enteromorpha intestinalis and Gracilaria tenuistipitata exhibited the highest chlorophyll and carotenoid content, respectively. Significant variations (P <0.05) in soluble protein, total phenolic, and flavonoid content were observed, with G. tenuistipitatafrom North Nuniachara standing out for elevated phenols, flavonoids, and protein. These findings highlighted the adaptability of seaweeds to changing marine environments, showcasing their resilience to stress, and microbial attacks, owing to their rich nutrient contents and diverse bioactive metabolites. However, in short, this study underscores the potential of seaweed as valuable natural resources with both nutritional and industrial significance.
Activation of GABAergic neurons in anterior cingulate cortex and their impacts on pulpitis-induced pain
Authors: Wu Li-An , Si Jialin , Yu Zhuo , Yan Xia , Nian Meng , Bai Yuting , Wu You , Wang Haozhen , Zhang Yaoyuan , Kang Xiaoning , Du Yang , Huang Jing 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Dental pulpitis, a highly prevalent condition associated with severe pain, often poses a challenge for conventional analgesics, which exhibit limited efficacy in providing effective relief. Previous researches have focused primarily on the dental pulp nerve fibers, trigeminal ganglion, and medullary dorsal horn. Over the past few years, GABAergic neurons have been validated as important regulators of pain. However, the central neural mechanisms, especially involving GABAergic neurons in higher brain centers, that modulate dental pulpitis pain remain largely unclear. In this study, we utilized various techniques, including immunofluorescence staining, transmission electron microscopy, multichannel electrophysiology, in vivo fiber photometry and chemogenetics to investigate functional and structural plasticity of GABAergic neurons and their subgroups in anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) during dental pulpitis. FOS staining results indicated activation of ACC GABAergic neurons in pulpitis mice. Electron microscopy revealed the changes of postsynaptic densities in ACC synapses. Mean firing rates and calcium signals of ACC GABAergic neurons were significantly increased. Additionally, chemogenetic activation of ACC GABAergic neurons reduced pulpitis pain. Specifically, activation of parvalbumin-positive (PV) neurons had no effect while activating somatostatin-positive (SST) neurons significantly relieved pulpitis pain. In summary, our study identified the ACC as an important central modulator of dental pulpitis pain, highlighting the involvement of GABAergic neurons, especially the SST neurons. Our findings may offer potential therapeutic targets for dental pulpitis pain management.
In vitro rapid propagation of triploid Toxicodendron vernicifluum
Authors: Zhang Xiaolin , Feng Jiayu , Luo Yiran , Duan Xiaomeng , He Chengzhong , Zong Dan 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Triploid lacquer trees have a higher yield of raw lacquer and greater stress resistance, however, it is challenging to develop efficient and rapid seedling culture techniques because of the influence of metabolites with raw lacquer. In this study, the stem segments of a triploid lacquer tree were used to investigate the effects of explant sterilization treatment, different combinations of exogenous hormone concentrations on the induction of axillary buds, seedling development, and rooting, as well as transplanting substrate ratios. The results showed that the optimal combination of disinfection treatment for triploid Toxicodendron vernicifluum explants involves 75% alcohol immersion for 10 s, followed by 2.0% benzalkonium chloride treatment for 1 min, and 0.1% HgCl2 treatment for 4 min. The suitable medium for axillary bud induction was Murashige and Skoog’s (MS) + 0.1 mg/L zeatin (ZT) + 0.1 mg/L 6-benzylaminopurine (6-BA), resulting in a high induction rate of 95.00%. The combination of 1/2 MS + 0.5 mg/L 6-BA + 0.3 mg/L 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) was the most effective for axillary bud proliferation. The combination of 1/2 MS + 0.1 mg/L 6-BA + 0.5 mg/L 2,4-D + 0.5 mg/L indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) + 0.2% activated carbon (AC) was an optimum for hardening-off. With Woody Plant Medium (WPM) + 0.5 mg/L naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA) + 0.5 mg/L 2,4-D + 0.5 g/L AC as rooting medium, the rooting rate was 67.76%. Also, the appropriate transplanting substrate ratio for triploid T. vernicifluum was grass charcoal: laterite: humus =1: 1: 1. Collectively, our results provide the technical assurance for seedling scale multiplication and propagation, facilitating its application in production.
Random walk in the complete graph : hitting and cover times
Authors: Castella François , Sericola Bruno 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
We consider the moments and the distribution of the hitting and cover times of a random walk in the complete graph. We study both the time needed to reach any subset of states and the time needed to visit all the states of a subset at least once. We obtain recurrence relations for the moments of all orders and we use these relations to analyze the asymptotic behavior of the hitting and cover times distributions when the number of states tends to infinity.
Radiomics Nomogram for Preoperative Differentiation Between Clinical Stage IA Solitary Pulmonary Nodule-Type Invasive Mucinous Adenocarcinoma and Invasive Non-mucinous Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Hong Sen , Ge Wu , Wu Yanping , Zhou Yinjun , Liu Haibo , Lin Shanyue 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Background
Radiomic applications for differentiating clinical stage IA solitary pulmonary nodule (SPN)-type invasive mucinous adenocarcinoma (IMA) from SPN-presenting lung adenocarcinoma (LADC) are lacking. Therefore, this study aimed to develop and validate predictive models for the preoperative differentiation between SPN-IMA and invasive non-mucinous LADC using computed tomography (CT) radiological and radiomic features.
Methods
In this bicentric study, we collected 507 SPNs, of which 42 were diagnosed as IMA and 465 as invasive non-mucinous LADC. The patients were randomly divided into training and test sets at a ratio of 7:3. The minimal redundancy maximal relevance filter was used to extract radiomic features, and the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression was used to screen these features and calculate the individualized radiomic score (rad score). We constructed a prediction nomogram that integrated radiomics and CT radiological features by applying multivariate logistic regression. Diagnostic capabilities were assessed by comparing the receiver operating characteristic and area under the curve (AUC) values.
Results
The combined model achieved AUC values of 0.789 and 0.798 for the training and test sets, respectively, surpassing those of the radiomics model in both the training (p = 0.038) and test (p = 0.021) sets. Moreover, the combined model performed better than the clinical model in the training (p = 0.017) and test (p = 0.025) sets. We transformed this combined model into a nomogram that accurately quantifies the risk of IMA and demonstrates exceptional discrimination and calibration.
Conclusions
The combined nomogram, incorporating radiomics and CT radiological features, is potentially valuable for the preoperative differentiation between clinical stage IA SPN-type IMA and invasive non-mucinous LADC.
Enhanced cytotoxic efficacy of Ocimum Basilicum leaf extract-mediated TiO2 nanocrystals
Authors: Kapoor Anu , Kumar Naveen , Sharma JK , Sharma Vandana , Sharma SK , Pundir Prem , Anand Gagan , Kandwal Abhishek , Kumar Suresh 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

In the present report, titanium oxide (TiO2) nanocrystals (NCs) were synthesized using the green route utilizing Ocimum basilicum leaf extract (OBLE). X-ray diffraction (XRD) studies revealed that TiO2 NCs exhibit tetragonal crystal configuration with anatase-type symmetry with \(I{4}_{1/}amd\) space group. The phenolic groups (–OH) present in OBLE were detected as the bend appeared at 3420 cm− 1 in the infrared spectrum. The characteristic hump positioned at 331 nm in the UV–visible diffuse reflectance spectrum (UV–DRS) of biosynthesized TiO2 NCs confirmed the formation of nanoparticles and the optical band gap of TiO2 NCs was found to be 3.41 eV as evaluated from Tauc’s plot. The surface morphology of TiO2 NCs showed minute agglomeration with an average particle size of 11.8 ± 0.66 nm as obtained from statistical analysis of the particle size distribution. The cytotoxic activity of TiO2 NCs was investigated against MDA–MB 231 cancer cells and dose-dependent cell inhibition was observed with a low IC50 value of 13.35 µg/mL after 48 h of incubation time.
A Novel Approach for color-balanced Reference Image Selection for Breast Histology Image Normalization
Authors: Jawad M Abdul , Khursheed Farida 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Histology image analysis is a fundamental aspect of medical research and diagnosis, and achieving proper normalization of histology images is essential for accurate analysis. The selection of an appropriate reference image plays a pivotal role in the normalization process, as it serves a benchmark for aligning and adjusting the color and intensity of other images within the dataset. However, the lack of a universally reliable method for selecting an optimal reference image poses a significant challenge in the field of histology image analysis. This study proposes an automatic reference image selection procedure to effectively represent the entire color space of the dataset or a particular class under investigation. The impact of the proposed procedure on the morphological and structural quality of normalized histology images is investigated using three established normalization techniques: Reinhard, Macenko, and Vahadane. Two strategies are explored: the global reference image strategy, where a single reference image is chosen for the entire dataset, and the class-specific reference image strategy, which considers the unique characteristics of each class. The results demonstrate that the proposed automatic reference image selection procedure consistently outperforms random selection in both strategies, yielding higher metric scores (SSIM, QSSIM, and PCC). Furthermore, the class-specific reference image approach significantly improves the image quality compared to random selection. The proposed method enhances alignment and accuracy in histology image normalization by leveraging class-specific reference images, facilitating more reliable analysis in histopathology research and clinical applications.
The efficacy and safety of laparoscopic common bile duct exploration with primary duct closure for cholecystolithiasis combined with choledocholithiasis
Authors: Teng Da , Xu Yue , Yang Qingsong , Zhang Wenjun 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Introduction:
Cholecystolithiasis combined with choledocholithiasis is a common disease. Surgery is a safe and effective treatment method. In terms of the management of the common bile duct, T-tube drainage (TTD) and primary duct closure (PDC) are two methods for repairing the bile duct after laparoscopic common bile duct exploration (LCBDE). So far, there is still significant controversy over the choice of two surgical methods. This study analyzes the efficacy and safety of two bile duct management methods in LCBDE surgery.
Materials and Methods:
The clinical data of 157 patients who received LCBDE treatment in our hospital from January 2019 to January 2022 were analyzed retrospectively. All patients were divided into primary duct closure group (PDC group) and T-tube drainage group (TTD group) according to different treatment methods of common bile duct. The demographic factors, preoperative conditions, surgical details and postoperative complications were compared.
Results:
Compared with TTD group, PDC group had fewer number of stones and Diameter of stones (P<0.05). In the Diameter distribution of CBD, the proportion of mild expansion group (10-15mm) was higher (P<0.05). In PDC group, ALT and AST decreased more rapidly after surgery(P<0.05). PDC group had shorter operation time, less volume of drainage, and shorter extubation time, shorter postoperative hospital stay and less hospitalization cost(P<0.05).
Conclusions:
PDC is suitable for patients with small and fewer common bile duct stones, fewer number, and moderate expansion of the common bile duct. PDC is a safe and feasible treatment for cholecystolithiasis combined with choledocholithiasis.
Characterization of European sprat acoustic backscatter
Authors: Palermino Antonio , Gastauer Sven , Felice Andrea , Canduci Giovanni , Biagiotti Ilaria , Costantini Ilaria , Leonori Iole 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
In fisheries acoustics, the identification of targets and precise translation of acoustic energy into biological meaningful metrics remains a challenge. Backscattering cross-section, or its logarithmic form, Target Strength (TS, dB re 1 m2), is a key parameter in this process. There are numerous studies on commercially important species, but few studies are available on commercially non-important species, such as the European sprat in the Mediterranean Sea. The application of backscattering models can improve our understanding of the acoustic properties of these species, allowing the manipulation of key parameters affecting the TS. Here we applied several backscattering models, on three-dimensional swimbladder shapes derived from Computer Tomography (CT) scans, of sprat collected during the MEDiterranean International Acoustic Survey (MEDIAS) in 2021. The theoretical TS pattern was compared with empirical TS revealing a good fit at 38 and 70 kHz between 0° (broadside incidence) and − 20° and significant differences at higher frequencies and tilt angles. This study provides estimates of the relative frequency response and broadband backscatter of sprat in the Mediterranean Sea. Moreover, the relationship of TS with fish length at 38 kHz yields a new relevant conversion parameter (b20) of -68.3 dB re 1 m2 for European sprat in the Mediterranean Sea.