bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Improved oxidation resistance while maintaining slag corrosion resistance of MgO–SiC–C refractories with moderate amounts of liquid phase
Authors: Guo Weijie , Zhao Xu , Zhu Tianbin , Chen Qilong , Li Yawei , Xu Xiaofeng , Xu Yibiao , Dai Yajie , Yan Wen , Li Yuanjin , Wang Xuyuan 
Published: January 2024

AbstractMgO–SiC–C refractories with superior hot strength, oxidation resistance and slag resistance have potential to become substitute refractories for matte smelting furnace. In the present work, the influence of glass powder addition on phase compositions, hot strength, oxidation resistance, and slag resistance of MgO–SiC–C refractories was investigated. The liquid phase introduced by glass powder filled the pores, blocking the channel for the ingress of the oxygen and thus improving the oxidation resistance. Although the oxidation resistance of such refractories was improved with 1–3 wt% glass powder addition, their hot strength and slag corrosion resistance decreased when the glass powder content was 2–3 wt%. To balance the mechanical properties, oxidation resistance and slag resistance, low amount glass powder addition (1 wt%) was considered better choice.
Stress‐induced multiferroic properties of lead‐free (1 − x)BTNO–(x)CFO nanocomposites
Authors: Arshad M. , Khan Wasi , Abushad M. , Nadeem M. , Riyaz  , Husain Shahid , Shukla D. K. , Ansari Azizurrahaman , Chakradhary Vishal Kumar , Khan Shakeel 
Published: January 2024

AbstractMultiferroic composites of (1 − x)BaTi0.98Ni0.02O3–(x)CoFe2O4 (0 ≤ x ≤ 0.06) were prepared through conventional solid‐state reaction route. X‐ray diffraction (XRD) studies along with the Rietveld refinement endorse the multiphase nature of the nanocomposite samples. The XRD peaks of the tetragonal bare barium titanate and the inverse cubic spinel of cobalt ferrite nanostructures phase can be identified separately. The tetragonality ratio of the bare barium titanate drops with the addition of the guest material, i.e., cobalt ferrite in the ferroelectric matrix. The Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra confirm the main absorption bands near 540–560 cm−1, corresponding to the metal‐oxide absorption band (ν1 mode), and are related to the stretching modes of the Ti–O bonds. The Raman spectra also signify the two symmetries confirming the nanocomposites’ ferroelectric and ferromagnetic phases. The surface morphology studies reveal the hexagonal and spherical shape of the grains in the nanostructures and nanocomposites. The energy‐dispersive x‐ray spectroscopy (EDX) spectra confirm the presence of all the elements in the samples. The ferroelectricity in the nanocomposite drops due to fluctuations in the valence state of Fe2+/Fe3+ that enhances the leakage current of the nanocomposites. The magnetic moment and dielectric constant of the nanocomposites are enhanced as the guest compound CoFe2O4 is added to the bare BaTi0.98Ni0.02O3. Thus, the simultaneous coexistence of ferroelectric and magnetic ordering at room temperature confirms the multiferroic behavior of the nanostructure and the nanocomposites.
Kinetics and mechanism of (re)hydroxylation in fired clay minerals
Authors: Kuligiewicz Artur , Derkowski Arkadiusz 
Published: January 2024

AbstractThree types of smectite with various crystallochemical compositions and interlayer cations as well as kaolinite and illite were fired at 800°C and 650°C and tested for their rehydroxylation's (RHX) potential and kinetics in the presence of water vapor at 200°C–350°C. A dehydroxylated structure of 2:1 Al‐rich mineral with the interlayer pillared by a large cation (like K+ or Cs+) is wide enough to allow H2O diffusion which results in advanced RHX, that is, restoring up to several tens of percent of the original OH content. Such 2:1 layer structures (beidellite, illite) do not follow the time‐to‐the‐quarter (TTTQ) kinetics during RHX and show a non‐Arrhenius behavior for isothermal RHX. Because TTTQ kinetics is assumed in an RHX dating of ceramic artifacts in archaeometry, fired‐clay ceramics prepared from material dominated by Al‐rich 2:1 minerals was found unfeasible for RHX dating.Kaolinite and Mg2+‐ or Ca2+‐exchanged smectites show the Arrhenius behavior and follow the TTTQ kinetics of RHX, resulting in apparent Ea increase with the progress of reaction (up to α ∼0.2) of ∼20–50 kJ/mol in beidellite and 15–35 kJ/mol in montmorillonite. We suggest using ‘hydroxylation’ rather than ‘rehydroxylation’ for structurally‐disordered fired clays gaining OH groups in an unknown position.
Efficacy of topical gabapentin in women with primary macular amyloidosis: A side‐by‐side triple‐blinded randomized clinical trial
Authors: Abtahi‐Naeini Bahareh , Hemati Elahe , Faghihi Gita , Shahmoradi Zabihollah , Paknazar Fatemeh , Rastegarnasab Fereshte , Varshosaz Jaleh , Hadian Mahdi , Akbari Mojtaba , Sabzghabaee Ali Mohammad 
Published: January 2024

AbstractBackgroundPrimary cutaneous macular amyloidosis (PCMA) is a chronic pruritic cutaneous disease characterized by heterogeneous extracellular deposition of amyloid protein in the skin.AimsThis study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of topical 6% gabapentin cream for the treatment of patients with PCMA.Materials and MethodsIn this triple‐blind clinical trial, a total of 34 patients, who were diagnosed with PCMA, treated using two different strategies of topical gabapentin as the active group and vehicle cream as the control group.ResultsPruritus score reduction in both groups was statistically significant compared with the baseline value (p < 0.001). There was a significant pigmentation score reduction in intervention group compared with control group after 1 month of the study (p < 0.001). The differences of pigmentation score changes between the groups were not significant at month 2 (p = 0.52) and month 3 (p = 0.22).ConclusionsThe results of this study suggest that topical gabapentin cream may be effective as a topical agent in the treatment of pruritus associated with PCMA without any significant adverse effects. It is recommended to perform similar studies with a larger sample size and longer duration in both sexes.
Implementation of triple‐scan protocol to evaluate the fit of complete‐arch implant‐supported fixed prostheses
Authors: Borga Donmez Mustafa , Çakmak Gülce , Schimmel Martin , Yilmaz Burak 
Published: January 2024

AbstractPassive fit is essential for multiple‐unit implant‐supported prostheses. Conventional methods to assess the passivity of complete‐arch implant‐supported prostheses do not allow 3‐dimensional (3D) visualization and quantification of misfit. This report describes the marginal and internal fit evaluation of a complete‐arch implant‐supported prosthesis by using the triple‐scan protocol involving a scanner and a 3D analysis freeware. This technique allows researchers, clinicians, or dental technicians to detect and quantify 3D prosthetic misfit, which may facilitate the preparation for dental appointments and objective measurement of misfit for research studies.
Use of a leadless pacemaker in the management of swallow syncope: A case report
Authors: Brieger Daniel G. , Tofler Geoffrey , Chia Karin K. M. 
Published: January 2024

AbstractA 41‐year‐old male presented with syncope whilst eating and was subsequently demonstrated to have recurrent symptomatic sinus pauses whilst swallowing. Following the exclusion of structural heart disease, he was diagnosed with swallow syncope, an uncommon variant of neurocardiogenic syncope. To avoid long‐term complications of a transvenous pacemaker, the case was managed with a leadless pacemaker which resulted in complete resolution of symptoms.
Evaluation of parity and its interaction effect with season of calving, period of calving on production and reproduction traits in Hardhenu (Bos taurus × Bos indicus) dairy cattle
Authors: Pushpa   , Magotra Ankit , Sindhu Vikas , Chaudhary Pradeep 
Published: January 2024

AbstractThis study investigated the impact of parity, period of calving, and season of calving on various production and reproduction traits in Hardhenu cattle. Third‐parity cows outperformed first and second‐parity cows, exhibiting significantly higher total milk yield (TMY), 305 days milk yield (305d MY), peak yield (PY), and artificial insemination per conception (AIPC) (p < .01). The Lactation length (LL) was inversely related to parity, with first‐parity cows having extended lactations (p < .05). The period of calving had a substantial influence on production traits. The season of calving was critical, affecting production traits differently across parities. First‐parity cows had the highest TMY and 305d MY during winter and summer calving, with summer calving associated with shorter LL (p < .05). Second‐parity cows showed higher TMY and 305d MY during summer calving, while third‐parity cows had higher TMY in winter (p < .01). PY followed similar patterns to TMY, with LL affected by the season of calving. Additionally, the study explored interactions between parity, period of calving, and season of calving on reproduction traits. Third‐parity cows had higher AIPC compared to first and second‐parity cows (p < .01). Reproduction traits were also significantly affected by the period of calving, with cows calving in the 2017–2021 period displaying longer service period (SP), calving interval (CI), dry period (DP), and AIPC (p < .01). These findings highlight the complex interplay of biological, environmental, and management factors in shaping the productivity and reproductive efficiency of Hardhenu cattle, emphasizing the need for multifaceted considerations to optimize herd performance.
Spontaneous slow wave oscillations in extracellular field potential recordings reflect the alternating dominance of excitation and inhibition
Authors: Zheng Ying , Kang Sungmin , O'Neill Joseph , Bojak Ingo 
Published: January 2024

AbstractIn the resting state, cortical neurons can fire action potentials spontaneously but synchronously (Up state), followed by a quiescent period (Down state) before the cycle repeats. Extracellular recordings in the infragranular layer of cortex with a micro‐electrode display a negative deflection (depth‐negative) during Up states and a positive deflection (depth‐positive) during Down states. The resulting slow wave oscillation (SWO) has been studied extensively during sleep and under anaesthesia. However, recent research on the balanced nature of synaptic excitation and inhibition has highlighted our limited understanding of its genesis. Specifically, are excitation and inhibition balanced during SWOs? We analyse spontaneous local field potentials (LFPs) during SWOs recorded from anaesthetised rats via a multi‐channel laminar micro‐electrode and show that the Down state consists of two distinct synaptic states: a Dynamic Down state associated with depth‐positive LFPs and a prominent dipole in the extracellular field, and a Static Down state with negligible () LFPs and a lack of dipoles extracellularly. We demonstrate that depth‐negative and ‐positive LFPs are generated by a shift in the balance of synaptic excitation and inhibition from excitation dominance (depth‐negative) to inhibition dominance (depth‐positive) in the infragranular layer neurons. Thus, although excitation and inhibition co‐tune overall, differences in their timing lead to an alternation of dominance, manifesting as SWOs. We further show that Up state initiation is significantly faster if the preceding Down state is dynamic rather than static. Our findings provide a coherent picture of the dependence of SWOs on synaptic activity.
imageKey points
Cortical neurons can exhibit repeated cycles of spontaneous activity interleaved with periods of relative silence, a phenomenon known as ‘slow wave oscillation’ (SWO).
During SWOs, recordings of local field potentials (LFPs) in the neocortex show depth‐negative deflection during the active period (Up state) and depth‐positive deflection during the silent period (Down state).
Here we further classified the Down state into a dynamic phase and a static phase based on a novel method of classification and revealed non‐random, stereotypical sequences of the three states occurring with significantly different transitional kinetics.
Our results suggest that the positive and negative deflections in the LFP reflect the shift of the instantaneous balance between excitatory and inhibitory synaptic activity of the local cortical neurons.
The differences in transitional kinetics may imply distinct synaptic mechanisms for Up state initiation.
The study may provide a new approach for investigating spontaneous brain rhythms.
Multidisciplinary Robust Design Optimization Incorporating Extreme Scenario in Sparse Samples
Authors: Li Wei , Niu Yuzhen , Huang Haihong , Garg Akhil , Gao Liang 
Published: January 2024

AbstractRobust design optimization (RDO) is a potent methodology that ensures stable performance in designed products during their operational phase. However, there remains a scarcity of robust design optimization methods that account for the intricacies of multidisciplinary coupling. In this article, we propose a multidisciplinary robust design optimization (MRDO) framework for physical systems under sparse samples containing the extreme scenario. The collaboration model is used to select samples that comply with multidisciplinary feasibility, avoiding time-consuming multidisciplinary decoupling analyses. To assess the robustness of sparse samples containing the extreme scenario, linear moment estimation is employed as the evaluation metric. The comparative analysis of MRDO results is conducted across various sample sizes, with and without the presence of the extreme scenario. The effectiveness and reliability of the proposed method are demonstrated through a mathematical case, a conceptual aircraft sizing design, and an energy efficiency optimization of a hobbing machine tool.
Complete genome sequence of enterococcal phage G01
Authors: Sheriff Emma K. , Andersen Shelby E. , Chatterjee Anushila , Duerkop Breck A. 
Published: January 2024

ABSTRACT

Here, we report the annotated genome of enterococcal phage G01. The G01 genome is 41,189 bp in length and contains 67 predicted open reading frames. Host range analysis revealed G01 can infect 28.6% (6/21) of
Enterococcus faecalis
strains tested and appears to not require the enterococcal phage infection protein PIP
EF
.
Assessing Routing Algorithms for Payment Channel Networks
Authors: Lobmaier David , Konlechner Rafael , Schulte Stefan , Weber Ingo 
Published: January 2024

Payment Channel Networks (PCNs) are a promising approach to overcome scalability issues of blockchains. To achieve efficient payments in PCNs, it is necessary to route transactions between a payer and a payee. Especially in large-scale PCNs, multi-hop routing becomes necessary, since transactions need to be relayed by nodes. For this, a scalable routing algorithm is needed, which fits the individual objectives of PCN users.
In this article, we study whether routing protocols from the field of Wireless Sensor Networks can be applied in PCNs. To this end, we first derive requirements for routing in PCNs, select suitable approaches, and analyze to which degrees they perform well and meet the requirements. We adapt selected protocols and evaluate them with regard to the lengths of payment paths, fees, and success ratio.
Exploring The Faculty and Students’ Readiness Level for The Effective Implementation of Physical Activity Toward Health and Fitness Courses (PATHFIT)
Authors: Pineda Herman S. , Andal Edilberto Z. , Hermosa Jherwin P. 
Published: January 2024

he study aimed to evaluate students' preparation for physical activity in health and fitness courses at Laguna State Polytechnic University (LSPU) campuses. A descriptive correlational methodology was used in the study, which included 920 students and 48 faculty members. The findings demonstrate that PATHFIT courses are generally and substantially prepared at all LSPU campuses. The range of mean scores for each indicator demonstrates a high level of readiness, and given the modest standard deviation, readiness levels across several campuses may be constant. The courses specifically show how to prepare for streamlining curricular materials, objectives, methods, staffing policies, workforce management, alternative programs, physical education curriculum, laboratories, and equipment. These places a strong basis and foundation for the implementation of PATHFIT courses and are much ready.
ANOVA results for the PATHFIT course implementation level throughout LSPU campuses, regarding the availability of facilities and resources, faculty qualification, and support system, revealed PATHFIT course implementation levels varied significantly among LSPU campuses. However, no appreciable differences across LSPU campuses' implementation levels of PATHFIT courses regarding the availability of facilities and resources and evaluation and monitoring attributable to the between-groups variation.
In summary, regression analysis shows there are no appreciable differences between campuses regarding achieving goals and objectives, assessment and monitoring, or overall implementation level, and there are appreciable variations in the availability of facilities and resources, faculty credentials, and support systems. These results show how PATHFIT courses must be implemented consistently and successfully throughout LSPU to solve the inequalities in resources and qualifications between campuses.
The study recommends ongoing promotion and improvement of health and fitness programs at LSPU campuses, as well as targeted interventions to enhance preparation levels and foster a culture of physical activity. Future research can explore innovative strategies to support a physically active lifestyle and contribute to overall well-being within the university community.
The Saucer Bugs (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Naucoridae) of French Guiana
Authors: Sites Robert W. , Clavier Simon , Shepard William D. 
Published: January 2024

Northeastern South America has been historically undersampled across most biota. Surveys conducted for aquatic insects in French Guiana during the past 14 years have resulted in the collection of 16 species of Naucoridae, of which 10 are new country records. Of these 16 species, 10 are in the subfamily Ambrysinae, one in Ilyocorinae, and five in Limnocorinae. At least six of these species are considered rare, as very few specimens are known. A checklist, annotated list, distribution maps, and an illustrated key to identify adults of these species are presented.
Characteristics of terminal hemimelia: What is the difference between terminal hemimelia and classic fibular hemimelia?
Authors: Song Mi Hyun , Shin Chang-Ho , Choi In Ho , Cho Tae-Joon 
Published: January 2024

Purpose: Fibular hemimelia has denoted a spectrum of postaxial longitudinal deficiency with fibular aplasia/hypoplasia; the term “terminal hemimelia” is reserved for patients with postaxial longitudinal deficiency having a normal fibula. We aimed to delineate the characteristics of terminal hemimelia. Methods: In total, 30 patients with postaxial longitudinal deficiency who had a normal or hypoplastic fibula and visited our institution between 1992 and 2022 were reviewed. Patients were divided into terminal hemimelia and classic fibular hemimelia groups, and their demographic characteristics and clinical and radiographic findings were compared. Results: Femoral shortening, knee valgus, and tibial spine hypoplasia were less common in terminal hemimelia (n = 13) than in classic fibular hemimelia (n = 17) (p = 0.03, p < 0.001, and p = 0.003, respectively). None of the patients in the terminal hemimelia group exhibited knee instability, whereas 12% of patients with classic fibular hemimelia did. Ball-and-socket ankle and absence of lateral rays were commonly observed in both groups. However, tarsal coalition was observed less frequently in terminal hemimelia (p = 0.004). All terminal hemimelia patients exhibited a painless plantigrade foot without ankle instability. Despite limb-length discrepancy at maturity averaging 40.4 mm for terminal hemimelia and 67.0 mm for classic fibular hemimelia (p < 0.001), patients with terminal hemimelia, except for one, exhibited > 20 mm of limb-length discrepancy. However, 46% of them underwent limb-length equalization procedures, mostly single-stage tibial lengthening, at a mean age of 11.2 years. Conclusion: Terminal hemimelia may present with a milder phenotype than classic fibular hemimelia. It mainly overlaps with the symptoms of fibular hemimelia below the ankle joint and manifests as limb-length discrepancy. However, a considerable number of patients with terminal hemimelia required limb-length equalization procedures, for example single-stage tibial lengthening. Level of evidence: level IV.
High-performance photocatalytic reduction of Cr(VI) using a retrievable Fe-doped WO3/SiO2 heterostructure
Authors: Boonprakob Natkritta , Channei Duangdao , Zhao Chen 
Published: January 2024

AbstractThe enhancement of the photocatalytic performance of pristine WO3 was systematically adjusted due to its fast recombination rate and low reduction potential. A designed heterostructure photocatalyst was necessarily synthesised by Fe3+ metal ions doping into WO3 structure with and composition modification. In this study, we synthesised a retrievable Fe-doped WO3/SiO2 heterostructure using a surfactant-assisted hydrothermal method. This heterostructure was then employed as an effective photocatalyst for the removal of Cr(VI) under visible light irradiation. Enlarged photocatalytic reduction was observed over a synergetic 7.5 mol% Fe-doped WO3/SiO2-20 nanocomposite, resulting in dramatically increased activity compared with undoped WO3 and SiO2 nanomaterials under visible light illumination within 90 min. The presence of 7.5 mol% Fe3+ ion dopant in WO3 optimised electron–hole recombination, consequently reducing WO3 photocorrosion. After adding SiO2 nanoparticles, the binary WO3-SiO2 nanocomposite played roles as both adsorbent and photocatalyst to increase specific surface area. Thus, the 7.5 mol% Fe-doped WO3/SiO2-20 nanocomposite catalyst had more active sites on the surface of catalyst, and enhanced photocatalytic reduction was significantly achieved. The results showed 91.1% photocatalytic reduction over the optimum photocatalyst, with a photoreduction kinetic rate of 21.1 × 10–3 min−1, which was approximately four times faster than pristine WO3. Therefore, the superior optimal photocatalyst demonstrated reusability, with activities decreasing by only 9.8% after five cycles. The high photocatalytic performance and excellent stability of our photocatalyst indicate great potential for water pollution treatments.