Extensive Range Research Articles

Diverse Methods for Diverse Systems: A Large-Scale Comparison of Reptile Sampling Methods

Abstract Reptiles play a crucial role in maintaining biodiversity and ecosystem health, yet many species face increasing threats due to various anthropogenic factors. Enhancing our understanding of reptile diversity and habitat use worldwide necessitates evaluating the effectiveness of diverse survey techniques. The relative efficacy of different methods may vary significantly across regions or communities, highlighting the need for a comprehensive approach using multiple survey methods over extensive spatial and temporal scales. In this study, we compared the effectiveness of seven survey methods – pitfall traps, funnel traps, spotlighting, arboreal cover boards, incidental encounters, camera traps, and passive acoustic monitoring (PAM) – for assessing reptile biodiversity over several years across an extensive spatial range in open eucalypt woodlands throughout eastern Australia. Pitfall and funnel traps were the most effective methods for detecting reptiles across all sites and latitudes. A combination of pitfall and funnel traps accumulated species the quickest, had high detection probabilities, and accounted for nearly 90% of all different reptile species detected in this study. However, with a decrease in latitude reptile diversity increased and other survey methods became necessary to document the full extent of the reptile communities. Reptile assemblages captured by different survey methods varied significantly, except for the communities captured by pitfall and funnel traps. No single method captured all species, and no species was detected by every method. Passive acoustic monitoring failed to detect any reptiles and may not be viable for assessing reptile biodiversity in Australia. Pitfall and funnel traps proved highly effective for detecting terrestrial reptiles within open eucalypt woodlands in Australia, however, the selection of methods for evaluating reptile biodiversity depends on the objectives and target fauna, and when possible, to maximize species richness, survey designs should incorporate an array of concurrently deployed methods, particularly in regions with higher overall species richness. Nevertheless, if resources and time are limited, pitfall and funnel traps, combined with incidental encounters, should capture the majority of species.

Analysis of Cervical Range of Motion in Subjects Affected by Temporomandibular Disorders: A Controlled Study.

Background and Objectives: The aim of this study were to compare the cervical ROM data obtained from accelerometer exams between patients suffering from TMDs (study group) and healthy patients (control group). Material and Methods: A sample of 43 young adult subjects (23 control subjects and 20 TMD patients) were included in this study and analyzed with the accelerometer (Baiobit™, BTS, Garbagnate Milanese, Milan, Italy) to assess cervical ROM using a standardized protocol, including the following occlusal conditions: mandibular rest position, clenching, clenching with cotton rolls, maximal intercuspation, and mandibular position with cotton rolls. The cervical ROM was measured in degrees and expressed as the mean and standard deviation. Results: TMD patients showed a reduced cervical extension compared to control subjects in all the conditions, with statistically significant relevance. Regarding the other movements, the differences were not statistically or clinically significant. Conclusions: Based on the results of the present study, it can be observed that temporomandibular disorders are associated with a decreased cervical extension range, while the remaining components of ROM do not seem to be significantly associated. The use of accelerometers in ROM analysis could be helpful in improving interdisciplinary communication between dentists and physiotherapists.

Low dose indirect conversion X-ray sensors based on Cs3Cu2I5 and CsPbBr3 coated BPW-34 photodiode

Metal halide perovskites (MHPs) have demonstrated tremendous applicability in optoelectronic research owing to their fascinating properties and extensive range of crystal structures. Among the MHPs, cesium copper iodide (Cs3Cu2I5) and cesium lead bromide (CsPbBr3) have been utilized in numerous applications like photovoltaics, photodetectors, and scintillation detectors. In this report, we present a cost-effective approach to developing an indirect conversion X-ray sensor based on Cs3Cu2I5 and CsPbBr3, utilizing a commercial photodiode (BPW 34). The MHPs were synthesized by solid-state exchange reaction, dissolved in dimethyl formamide (DMF), and recrystallized within a polymer matrix. The MHP polymer matrix was then coated onto the top surface of the photodiodes as thick films. The photocurrent characteristics of Cs3Cu2I5 and CsPbBr3 indirect X-ray sensors, upon exposure to X-rays at 70 kVp energy under various X-ray exposures and zero bias conditions, were recorded. Both MHPs exhibited a significant response to the incident X-rays. These outcomes highlight the potential of Cs3Cu2I5 and CsPbBr3 scintillators for fabricating X-ray imagers based on commercial photodiode arrays.

A sensitive electrochemical sensor for glutathione based on specific recognition induced collapse of silver-contained metal organic frameworks.

An electrochemical sensor capable of detecting glutathione (GSH) with high sensitivity and selectivity was developed based on the unique novel electroactive silver-based metal organic framework (Ag-MOF). The Ag-MOF obtained by silver nitrate and 1,3,5-benzoic acid (H3BTC) was thoroughly characterized and was modified onto the electrode via facile drop-casting method. The electrochemical response of GSH on the Ag-MOF modified electrode showed a significant reduction in the current signal because the Ag-GSH complex had stronger specific affinity than Ag-H3BTC and resulted in the collapse of the Ag-MOF. This sensor demonstrated an extensive linear dynamic range of 0.1 nM-1 µM, along with the low detection limit of 0.018 nM. Additionally, it exhibited good reproducibility, stability, and resistance to interfering compounds. The Ag-MOF modified electrode demonstrated superior performance attributed to its rapid electron transfer rate, outstanding electrochemical redox activity, and specific recognition/competitive reaction. These factors improved both sensitivity and selectivity. The high anti-interference ability allowed for the selective detection of GSH in intricate surroundings. In the real sample testing, the RSD was lower than 3.1% and the recovery was between 98.1 and 103%. This research highlights the potential of Ag-MOFs in developing electrochemical sensors and their promising applications in determining GSH for food screening and early disease diagnosis.

Supercritical CO2 mediated construction of aluminium waste recovered γ-Al2O3 impregnated Dracaena trifasciata biomass-derived carbon composite: A robust electrocatalyst for mutagenic pollutant detection

Inspired by the waste-to-wealth concept, we have recovered the gamma phase aluminium oxide nanoparticles (γ-Al2O3 NPs) from waste aluminium (Al) foils and fabricated a composite with Dracaena trifasciata biomass-derived activated carbon matrix (DT-AC) using supercritical carbon-di-oxide (SC-CO2) pathway. The prepared samples are characterized altogether by various micro- and spectroscopic analyses. Based on the results, the recovered γ-Al2O3 NPs are well impregnated in the DT-AC surface by the action of the microbubble effect from the SC-CO2. The higher D-band and ID/IG value of 1.07 in the Al2O3/DT-AC nanocomposite indicate increased defects and the amorphous nature of the carbon materials. The effect of scan rate (ν) demonstrated greater linearity in ν1/2 vs peak current in the electrochemical detection study of the mutagenic pollutant 4-(methylamino) phenol hemi sulfate, showing a quasi-reversible electron transfer process undergoing diffusion-controlled kinetics. Furthermore, the limit of detection is determined to be 3.2 nM L–1 with an extensive linear range, spanning from 0.05 to 618.25 µM/L. The incredible sensitivity of 2.117 μA μM−1 cm−2, along with excellent selectivity, repeatability, and stability, is observed. Further, the respectable recovery percentage of 98.61 % in the environmental water sample is perceived. The observed outcomes suggest that the prepared Al2O3/DT-AC composite performs as an excellent electrocatalyst material, and the processing techniques used are thought to be sustainable in nature.

Optimization of Rural Governance Structure under the Development of New Agricultural Management Entities

The positive impact of the development of new agricultural business entities and their institutional systems on the optimization of rural governance structures can be examined from various perspectives, including the state, market, rural society, urban-rural relations, and grassroots governance structure in rural communities. The development of these new agricultural business entities has not only redefined but also restructured the power distribution and governance patterns in rural developing countries, markets, and villages. The rural social order has evolved into a ternary mutual structure governance pattern, often referred to as the “state market rural” model. This transformation has prompted adjustments in the national economic and social policy structure and management systems at both macro and micro levels. It has led to the reshaping of power dynamics, benefit distribution, and governance structures in both urban and rural areas, resulting in significant changes to the economic and social fabric of rural regions. Furthermore, the grassroots governance structure in rural society, characterized by “township governance and village governance,” is undergoing continuous development and improvement. This transition is marked by a shift towards a collaborative governance structure that encourages diverse participation. Building upon the aforementioned optimizations, the rural governance structure now exhibits new characteristics. These include a more extensive and diverse range of rural governance mechanisms, increased openness in governance processes, and a heightened synergy among various governance mechanisms. This dynamic evolution reflects a richer, more diverse, and more open approach to rural governance, fostering a stronger collaborative effort in the pursuit of effective governance.

Toward a Better Understanding of Walking Speed in Ataxia of Charlevoix-Saguenay: a Factor Exploratory Study.

Mobility limitations, including a decrease in walking speed, are major issues for people with autosomal recessive spastic ataxia of Charlevoix-Saguenay (ARSACS). Improving our understanding of factors influencing walking speed in ARSACS may inform the development of future interventions for gait rehabilitation and contribute to better clinical practices. The objective of the study was to identify the factors influencing the self-selected walking speed in adults with ARSACS. The dependent variable of this cross-sectional study was the self-selected speed and the factors (independent variables) were age, sex, balance, balance confidence, knee flexion and extension cocontraction indexes, lower limb coordination, passive range of motion of ankle dorsiflexion, knee and hip extension, and global spasticity. Multiple regression models were used to assess the relationships between walking speed and each factor individually. Six factors were significantly associated with walking speed and thus included in regression models. The models explained between 42.4 and 66.5% of the total variance of the self-selected walking speed. The factors that most influence self-selected walking speed are balance and lower limb coordination. In order of importance, the other factors that also significantly influence self-selected walking speed are ankle dorsiflexion range of motion, lower limb spasticity, knee extension range of motion, and confidence in balance. Balance and lower limb coordination should be targeted in rehabilitation interventions to maintain walking ability and functional independence as long as possible. The six factors identified should also be included in future studies to deepen our understanding of walking speed.

A focused review on techniques for achieving cloaking effects with metamaterials

In recent years, the field of metamaterial cloaks has experienced remarkable progress, propelling it to the forefront of scientific exploration. This comprehensive review seeks to provide a thorough examination of the current research landscape in this domain, specifically emphasizing comparative studies that elucidate the diverse array of approaches employed in the development of metamaterial cloaks. A paramount challenge facing researchers is the attainment of broadband invisibility, signifying the capability to render objects imperceptible across an extensive range of frequencies. To tackle this formidable challenge, scholars have delved into a myriad of methodologies. These include the strategic use of plasmonic materials, the integration of metamaterials with spatially varying structures, and the exploration of non-resonant metamaterials. Each approach brings its unique advantages and limitations to the forefront, underscoring the necessity for a tailored selection based on the intricacies of the intended application. One notable aspect that emerges from comparative analyses is the preponderance of theoretical foundations in the existing body of knowledge. Theoretical frameworks have been instrumental in understanding and predicting the behaviors of metamaterial cloaks. However, it's crucial to acknowledge that experimental-based real prototypes are not as prevalent as their theoretical counterparts. This scarcity underscores the need for increased experimental validations to bridge the gap between theoretical predictions and practical implementations. Despite the current emphasis on theoretical advancements, the development of cloaking metamaterials remains an ever-evolving field. Continuous innovation introduces new approaches and techniques, further enriching our understanding of metamaterial cloak behavior. As this review encapsulates the current state of research, it aspires not only to provide a comprehensive understanding of comparative behaviors but also to catalyze further exploration and experimentation in this captivating arena. The ultimate goal is to inspire a wave of research initiatives that will propel the field of metamaterial cloaks into new frontiers of scientific achievement.

Application of artificial intelligence in predicting the residual mechanical properties of fiber reinforced concrete (FRC) after high temperatures

The practical application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) approaches in estimating the mechanical properties of fiber-reinforced concrete (FRC) subjected to high temperatures was initiated by developing a dataset including concrete mixtures, geometrical and mechanical properties of fiber, and temperatures. The dataset contains compressive strength, tensile strength, and modulus of elasticity of concrete with two distinct types of fiber, i.e., steel and polypropylene with an extensive range of temperatures from 100 to 1200 ℃. The dataset determined the gaps in the literature and showed FRC with high fiber aspect ratios and higher content of fiber (>0.8%) are not studied enough. The AI-based models showed that steel fiber-reinforced concrete (SFRC) has higher residual compressive strength compared with polypropylene fiber-reinforced concrete (PFRC). An increase in steel fiber diameter and length resulted in a higher compressive strength ratio at all temperatures. Moreover, higher PP fibers content and longer PP fibers decrease the rate of tensile strength degradation. A large probabilistic analysis was performed, and it showed that the failure probability (Pf) for PFRC is independent of W/B ratios and is almost 50%;. In contrast, for SFRC, W/B ratios between 0.4 to 0.5 have lower failure probability in comparison with other W/B ratios. Moreover, Pf for both fibers at a W/B ratio of 0.5 is almost independent of fiber content. Furthermore, the critical temperature resulting in failure (defined as the residual strength ratio less than 0.5) for SFRC and PFRC is 550 ℃ and 430 ℃, respectively.

A Practical Data Extraction, Cleaning, and Integration Method for Structural Condition Assessment of Highway Bridges

The success of regional bridge condition assessment, a crucial component of systematic maintenance strategies, relies heavily on comprehensive, well-structured regional bridge databases. This study proposes the data extraction, cleaning, and integration method for the construction of such databases. First, this research proposes an extraction method tailored for unstructured data often present in inspection reports. Additionally, this paper meticulously outlines a cleaning procedure designed to rectify two distinct categories of typical errors that are present within the inspection data. Subsequently, this study takes a holistic approach by establishing integration rules that harmonize data from various sources, including inspection records, monitoring data, traffic statistics, as well as design and construction blueprints. The architectural framework of the regional bridge information database is then meticulously laid out. To validate and demonstrate the effectiveness of the method, this study applies them to a set of representative highway bridges situated within Shandong Province. The results show that this approach can be used to successfully establish a functional regional bridge database. The database plays a pivotal role in harnessing the latent potential of an extensive range of multi-source information and propels the field of bridge condition assessment forward by providing a solid basis for informed decision making and strategic planning in the realm of infrastructure maintenance.

Organic/carbon and organic/carbon-metal composite phase change material for thermoelectric generator: Experimental evaluation

Phase change materials (PCMs) are regarded as a promising choice for thermal energy storage and thermal regulation applications owing to their extensive range of operational temperature. Nevertheless, the effective utilization of PCMs is primarily limited by their inadequate thermal conductivity. Present study investigates the efficacy of employing graphene (Gr) mono nanoparticles and graphene-silver (Gr:Ag) hybrid nanoparticles as an approach to enhance thermal features and establish a comparative analysis in energy storage performance of organic phase change material (PCM). The comparative study suggest the addition of 0.8 weight% (wt%) of hybrid Gr:Ag nanoparticles (NPs) enhanced the thermal conductivity of PCM (RT54HC) by 96 %, while 0.8 wt% addition of mono graphene NPs increases thermal conductivity by 83 %. Hybridization of Ag nanoparticle over Gr nanoparticle surface ensures uniform dispersion of nanoparticle into the PCM matrix overcoming the issue of floating in graphene mono nanoparticle and settling in silver nanoparticle. Subsequently, energy storage enthalpy of nanocomposite PCM with 0.8 wt% NPs of Gr and Gr:Ag nanoparticle results in increase in latent heat by 11 % and 8.5 % respectively. Likewise, inclusion of Gr nanoparticles resulted in a decrease in optical transmissibility by 71 %, while Gr:Ag hybrid nanoparticles led to a slightly lower decrease of 65 %. The composites also exhibited a minor alteration in their thermo-physical properties following 500 thermal cycles, thus validating the reliability of prepared nanoparticle enhanced PCMs. Further, hybrid nanocomposite applied in thermoelectric generator (TEG) that produced 425 mV in comparison to base PCM 325 mV. Therefore, the prepared nanocomposites, with their established capabilities, have the potential to make a substantial contribution to the advancement of energy storage requirements in the future.

Effect of thermal exposure on microstructure, orientation relationship, residual stress and failure mechanism of ultrasonic-assisted Kovar/SnSb10/Kovar joints

Thermal exposure is often accompanied by the accumulation of inhomogeneous element diffusion, continued solid-state phase transformation, and occurrence of residual stress, causing the failure of the joint directly. In this work, we focused on the orientation relationship (OR) alternation, residual stress distribution, and failure mechanism of the reflow/ultrasonic-assisted Kovar/SnSb10/Kovar joint after thermal exposure. Especially, the role of Ni element during thermal exposure was analyzed in detail. It was noticed that the thickness of interfacial intermetallic was merely lower than 4 μm, even after thermal exposure for 45 d. The interfacial ORs of IMC/Kovar, whether ultrasound was applied or not, changed to an incoherent state. However, it did not deteriorate the ultimate shear strength, which reached over 50 MPa even after thermal exposure at 160 °C for 45 d. Compared to the reflow process after thermal exposure, the joints with ultrasonic improves the strength by about 10%. However, it dramatically decreased to only 20 MPa after thermal exposure at 200 °C for 45 d. The rationale was that ultrasonic-induced supersaturated Ni elements in solder and the Ni elements from the Kovar alloy diffused into the IMC region simultaneously, forming the (Fe, Ni)Sn2 IMC layer with relatively high residual stress and acting as the fracture origin region. The current findings demonstrated that the Kovar/SnSb10 interface proposed outstanding microstructure stability and mechanical reliability and was a promising alternative for a more extensive range of high-temperature applications.

Association of Knee Osteoarthritis and Flexion Contracture With Localized Tibial Articular Cartilage Loss: Data From the Osteoarthritis Initiative.

To evaluate whether a knee flexion contracture (FC) was associated with localized tibial articular cartilage loss over a 1-year period using Osteoarthritis Initiative quantitative data. Five hundred seventy-eight participants from a previously established nested case-control study of people with radiographic knee OA with or without progression, based on radiographs and symptoms, had their knee range of extension measured at baseline and received magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) at baseline and 1 year. The tibial articular cartilage of the medial and lateral condyles was segmented into anterior, center, and posterior regions. We tested for associations between knee FC (defined as lack of extension to 0°), and localized changes in tibial articular cartilage thickness or percent of denuded bone (0 mm thickness) after 1 year relative to baseline using ANOVA, controlling for baseline MRI outcomes and clinical factors. Knee FC was associated with denuded bone in the medial condyle center (β 0.44, 95% CI 0.02-0.86) and preserved cartilage thickness in the medial condyle posterior (β 0.01, 95% CI 0.002-0.03) regions. Knee FC unloading the tibial center region and loading the posterior region was associated with localized articular cartilage loss centrally and preserved articular cartilage posteriorly. These findings are consistent with knee FC negatively affecting unloaded tibial articular cartilage.

Comparison of effectiveness of lower extremity axial distractor and traction table assisted closed reduction and intramedullary nail fixation in femoral subtrochanteric fracture

To compare the effectiveness of lower extremity axial distractor (LEAD) and traction table assisted closed reduction and intramedullary nail fixation in treatment of femoral subtrochanteric fracture. The clinical data of 117 patients with subtrochanteric fracture of femur treated by closed reduction and intramedullary nail fixation between May 2012 and May 2022 who met the selection criteria were retrospectively analyzed. According to the auxiliary reduction tools used during operation, the patients were divided into LEAD group (62 cases with LEAD reduction) and traction table group (55 cases with traction table reduction). There was no significant difference in baseline data, such as gender, age, injured side, cause of injury, fracture Seinsheimer classification, time from injury to operation, and preoperative visual analogue scale (VAS) score, between the two groups ( P>0.05). Total incision length, operation time, intraoperative blood loss, fluoroscopy frequency, closed reduction rate, fracture reduction quality, fracture healing time, weight-bearing activity time, and incidence of complications, as well as hip flexion and extension range of motion (ROM), Harris score, and VAS score at 1 month and 6 months after operation and last follow-up were recorded and compared between the two groups. There were 14 cases in the LEAD group from closed reduction to limited open reduction, and 43 cases in the traction table group. The incisions in the LEAD group healed by first intention, and no complication such as nerve and vascular injury occurred during operation. In the traction table group, 3 cases had perineal crush injury, which recovered spontaneously in 1 week. The total incision length, operation time, intraoperative blood loss, fluoroscopy frequency, and closed reduction rate in the LEAD group were significantly better than those in the traction table group ( P<0.05). There was no significant difference in the quality of fracture reduction between the two groups ( P>0.05). Patients in both groups were followed up 12-44 months, with an average of 15.8 months. In the LEAD group, 1 patient had delayed fracture union at 6 months after operation, 1 patient had nonunion at 3 years after operation, and 1 patient had incision sinus pus flow at 10 months after operation. In the traction table group, there was 1 patient with fracture nonunion at 15 months after operation. X-ray films of the other patients in the two groups showed that the internal fixator was fixed firmly without loosening and the fractures healed. There was no significant difference in fracture healing time, weight bearing activity time, incidence of complications, and postoperative hip flexion and extension ROM, Harris score, and VAS score at different time points between the two groups ( P>0.05). For femoral subtrochanteric fracture treated by close reduction and intramedullary nail fixation, compared with traction table, LEAD assisted fracture reduction can significantly shorten the operation time, reduce intraoperative blood loss and fluoroscopy frequency, reduce incision length, effectively improve the success rate of closed reduction, and avoid complications related to traction table reduction. It provides a new method for good reduction of femoral subtrochanteric fracture.

Dual-Responsive Nanorobot-Based Marsupial Robotic System for Intracranial Cross-Scale Targeting Drug Delivery.

Nanorobots capable of active movement are an exciting technology for targeted therapeutic intervention. However, the extensive motion range and hindrance of the blood-brain barrier impeded their clinical translation in glioblastoma therapy. Here, a marsupial robotic system constructed by integrating chemical/magnetic hybrid nanorobots (child robots) with a miniature magnetic continuum robot (mother robot) for intracranial cross-scale targeting drug delivery is reported. For primary targeting on macroscale, the continuum robot enters the cranial cavity through a minimally invasive channel (e.g., Ommaya device) in the skull and transports the nanorobots to pathogenic regions. Upon circumventing the blood-brain barrier, the released nanorobots perform secondary targeting on microscale to further enhance the spatial resolution of drug delivery. In vitro experiments against primary glioblastoma cells derived from different patients are conducted for personalized treatment guidance. The operation feasibility within organisms is shown in ex vivo swine brain experiments. The biosafety of the treatment system is suggested in in vivo experiments. Owing to the hierarchical targeting method, the targeting rate, targeting accuracy, and treatment efficacy have improved greatly. The marsupial robotic system offers a novel intracranial local therapeutic strategy and constitutes a key milestone in the development of glioblastoma treatment platforms.

Copper management strategies in obligate bacterial symbionts: balancing cost and benefit.

Bacteria employ diverse mechanisms to manage toxic copper in their environments, and these evolutionary strategies can be divided into two main categories: accumulation and rationalization of metabolic pathways. The strategies employed depend on the bacteria's lifestyle and environmental context, optimizing the metabolic cost-benefit ratio. Environmental and opportunistically pathogenic bacteria often possess an extensive range of copper regulation systems in order to respond to variations in copper concentrations and environmental conditions, investing in diversity and/or redundancy as a safeguard against uncertainty. In contrast, obligate symbiotic bacteria, such as Neisseria gonorrhoeae and Bordetella pertussis, tend to have specialized and more parsimonious copper regulation systems designed to function in the relatively stable host environment. These evolutionary strategies maintain copper homeostasis even in challenging conditions like encounters within phagocytic cells. These examples highlight the adaptability of bacterial copper management systems, tailored to their specific lifestyles and environmental requirements, in the context of an evolutionary the trade-off between benefits and energy costs.

Modern sociological approaches to innovation research (critical review)

This article examines sociological research of innovations and prospects for considering innovations in a joint sociological. The article analyzes complex innovations, with a large number of various amenities available for distribution and territorial entities. Based on the analyses of current writers on the traces of innovations in the articles, it will be concluded that the agreed will weigh on innovation and will mean in the story and the saying of the Ecos in which innovations are generated and in the framework where the exploration of assets is carried out intrigued in the coordination of the process of economic development of a particular territory. Based on an extensive range of information, the authors inform the priority schemes for the development of both innovations and innovative ecosystems. Paying attention to the prospects for the practical implementation of innovative systems. Different attention in the work is dominated by an active - network approach to the search for innovations, which allows us to consider the prospects for the development of their innovations. Also, the article sends out research, agreed prospects for the use and examples of new technologies and their differentiation in specific cases, and it is possible to conclude about the implementation of communication and prospects for interaction within the innovation system for the implementation of reengineering of innovation.

Recent Advancement on the Indirect or Combined Alternative Thiocyanate Sources for the Construction of S-CN Bonds.

The process of thiocyanation is a notable chemical conversion owing to the extensive range of applications associated with thiocyanate compounds in the field of organic chemistry. In past centuries, the thiocyanation reaction incorporated metal thiocyanates or thiocyanate salts as sources of thiocyanate, which are environmentally detrimental and undesirable. In recent literature, there have been numerous instances where combined or indirect alternative sources of thiocyanate have been employed as agents for thiocyanation, showcasing their noteworthy applications. The present literature review focuses on elucidating the ramifications associated with the utilization of indirect or combined alternative sources of thiocyanate in various thiocyanation reactions.

Neural mechanosensitivity findings in patients with adhesive capsulitis

BACKGOURND: The pathophysiology of adhesive capsulitis may be associated with increased neural mechanosensitivity in upper limb neurodynamic test. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the findings of neurodynamic assessment in patients with more than four month history of adhesive capsulitis. METHODS: Thirty-five patients with more than four month history of adhesive capsulitis were participated in this study. A physiotherapist performed the Upper Limb Neurodynamic test 1 procedure on the participant’s upper limb. Elbow extension range of motion at the end of the Upper Limb Neurodynamic test 1 was compared with the participant’s elbow extension at the end of Upper Limb Neurodynamic test 1 performed on the opposite upper limb and to elbow extension on the symptomatic side performed with the arm by the side. RESULTS: The intensity of pain in Upper Limb Neurodynamic test 1 increased with lateral flexion of the neck to the unaffected side and eased with lateral flexion to the affected side in all participants. A marked restriction of the elbow passive extension range of motion in Upper Limb Neurodynamic test 1 on the affected side (–54.6±17.8°) compared to the unaffected side was found (–7.3±10.7°) (p &lt; 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Restriction of elbow passive extension range of motion at the end of the Upper Limb Neurodynamic 1 test reproduced patients’ familiar adhesive capsulitis associated pain and the pain changed with structural differentiation using cervical lateral flexion. Neurodynamic assessment may need to be considered to assess neural mechanosensitivity in patients with adhesive capsulitis.

MEHW‐SVM multi‐kernel approach for improved brain tumour classification

AbstractThe human brain, the primary constituent of the nervous system, exhibits distinctive complexities that present considerable difficulties for healthcare practitioners, specifically in categorizing brain tumours. Magnetic resonance imaging is a widely favoured imaging modality for detecting brain tumours due to its extensive range of image characteristics and utilization of non‐ionizing radiation. The primary objective of the current investigation is to differentiate between three distinct classifications of brain tumours by introducing a novel methodology. The utilization of a combined feature extraction technique that integrates novel global grey level co‐occurrence matrix and local binary patterns is employed, thereby offering a comprehensive representation of the structural and textural information contained within the images. Principal component analysis is used to improve the model's efficiency for effective feature selection and dimensionality reduction. This study presents a novel framework incorporating four separate kernel functions, Minkowski–Gaussian, exponential support vector machine (SVM), histogram intersection SVM, and wavelet kernel, into a SVM classifier. The ensemble kernel employed in this study is specifically designed to classify glioma, meningioma, and pituitary tumours. Its implementation enhances the model's robustness and adaptability, surpassing the performance of conventional single‐kernel SVM approaches. This study substantially contributes to medical image classification by utilizing innovative kernel functions and advanced machine‐learning techniques. The findings demonstrate the potential for enhanced diagnostic accuracy in brain tumour cases. The presented approach shows promise in effectively addressing the intricate challenges associated with classifying brain tumours.