bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Electrolyte‐Gated InGaZnO Phototransistor that Emulates Visual Experience‐Dependent Plasticity
Authors: Wang Zheng , Zhang Mingzhen , Xie Donggang , Liu Zhuohui , Li Ge , Xie Jiahui , Guo Erjia , He Meng , Wang Can , Yang Guozhen , Jin Kuijuan , Ge Chen
Published: September 2024

Inspired by neurobiological learning rules, bionic devices that simulate the fundamental functions of synapses and neurons provide a highly effective approach to neuromorphic computing. Among various learning rules, the Bienenstock‐Cooper‐Munro (BCM) learning rule can explain the threshold sliding effect of synaptic weight modification in the visual cortex, which is difficult to explain with the classical Hebb's rule. Existing research mainly focuses on exploiting electrical stimulation to implement the BCM rule, while the optical implementation is still unexplored. In this paper, the light‐history‐dependent BCM learning rule is implemented with electrolyte‐gated InGaZnO (IGZO) transistors. The channel conductance can be modulated through light illumination and electrical stimulation. By utilizing the light‐history‐dependent property of the IGZO electrolyte‐gated transistor and following the triplet‐spike‐timing‐dependent plasticity (STDP) rules, the BCM learning rule is successfully emulated in a single device. Moreover, the light‐history‐dependent property enables a variety of bionic vision functions including image edge detection and associative memory. This work provides a paradigm for the novel implementation of the BCM rule and paves the way for further development of machine vision systems.
Evaluating Users’ Perception of Biologically Inspired Involuntary Behavior in Human–Robot Interaction
Authors: Maroto‐Gómez Marcos , Fernández‐Rodicio Enrique , Castro‐González Álvaro , Malfaz María , Salichs Miguel Ángel
Published: September 2024

Multimodal communication is a human feature that enables diverse interactions. In human–robot interaction (HRI), robots have to communicate using human skills so that they can seem natural and assist effectively. Most research uses predefined gestures to equip robots with social abilities. However, researchers scarcely consider generating bioinspired involuntary behavior to improve a robot's expressiveness and communication. Human studies revealed that involuntary behavior affects how others perceive communicative intentions. Therefore, mimicking human involuntary behavior may positively affect HRI. This article extends our previous work on equipping robots with involuntary behavior with a user study that evaluates the use of bioinspiration for complementing gestures. A preliminary test is conducted with 15 participants to determine if they can perceive the intensities of the involuntary processes heart rate, pupil size, blink rate, breathing rate, and motor activity. 63 new participants interacted with a robot with bioinspired behaviors or a robot only showing predefined gestures to evaluate the robots’ warmth, competence, and discomfort. The results show that the preliminary test participants differentiated the intensities of the involuntary processes. Participants in the second study find the robot with bioinspired behaviors significantly warmer and more competent than the robot with predefined gestures, with no discomfort difference.
Artificial Intelligence‐Augmented Additive Manufacturing: Insights on Closed‐Loop 3D Printing
Authors: Sani Abdul Rahman , Zolfagharian Ali , Kouzani Abbas Z.
Published: September 2024

The advent of 3D printing has transformed manufacturing. However, extending the library of materials to improve 3D printing quality remains a challenge. Defects can occur when printing parameters like print speed and temperature are chosen incorrectly. These can cause structural or dimensional issues in the final product. This review investigates closed‐loop artificial intelligence‐augmented additive manufacturing (AI2AM) technology that integrates AI‐based monitoring, automation, and optimization of printing parameters and processes. AI2AM uses AI to improve defect detection and prevention, improving additive manufacturing quality and efficiency. This article explores generic 3D printing processes and issues using existing research and developments. Next, it focuses on fused deposition modeling (FDM) printers and reviews their parameters and issues. The current remedies developed for defect detection and monitoring in FDM 3D printers are presented. Then, the article investigates AI‐based 3D printing monitoring, closed‐loop feedback systems, and parameter optimization development. Finally, closed‐loop 3D printing challenges and future directions are discussed. AI‐based systems detect and correct 3D printing failures, enabling current printers to operate within optimal conditions and minimizing the risk of defects or failures, which in turn leads to more sustainable manufacturing with minimum waste and extending the library of materials.
Azide‐Induced Furan Ring Opening for the Synthesis of Functionalized Indoles
Authors: Chalikidi Petrakis N. , Magkoev Taimuraz T. , Egorov Dmitry I. , Kolodina Alexandra A. , Uchuskin Maxim G. , Trushkov Igor V. , Abaev Vladimir T.
Published: September 2024

We investigated the reactivity of various furans towards 2‐azidobenzaldehydes, heterocyclic azidoaldehydes, and substituted 2‐azidobenzyl alcohols to synthesize 2‐(2‐azidobenzyl)furan derivatives, revealing the azide group's remarkable compatibility with typical Friedel‐Crafts reaction conditions. Additionally, we demonstrated that these derivatives could be efficiently synthesized via a diazotization/azidation sequence from 2‐(2‐aminobenzyl)furans containing electron‐donating substituents, successfully avoiding undesirable side reactions. Furthermore, we developed a synthetic methodology for preparing 2‐(2‐acylvinyl)indoles, involving the thermal generation of nitrenes to initiate furan ring opening. Notably, our approach utilizes the azidoaryl group and the furan ring separated by a saturated carbon atom that distinguishes it from known indole syntheses in which these moieties are conjugated. The broad applicability and high efficiency of our method, using readily available starting materials, highlight its potential as a versatile synthetic tool.
Brønsted Acid‐Stibine Oxide Complexes as Organocatalysts for the Activation of Alkenes
Authors: Ishida Nagisa , Nishida Yuuki , Hamada Shohei , Yasui Hiroyuki , Furuta Takumi , Kobayashi Yusuke
Published: September 2024

Various hydroxystibonium salts were synthesized via the one‐pot oxidation/salt formation of a series of triarylstibines. The properties of the ortho‐substituents on the aryl groups were elucidated via X‐ray crystallographic analysis and computational studies. Moreover, the catalytic reactivity of the hydroxystibonium salts with alkenes was investigated, and the involvement of a radical species is proposed based on the results of mechanistic studies.
Deletion of miR‐33, a regulator of the ABCA1–APOE pathway, ameliorates neuropathological phenotypes in APP/PS1 mice
Authors: Tate Mason , Wijeratne H. R. Sagara , Kim Byungwook , Philtjens Stéphanie , You Yanwen , Lee Do‐Hun , Gutierrez Daniela A. , Sharify Daniel , Wells Megan , Perez‐Cardelo Magdalena , Doud Emma H. , Fernandez‐Hernando Carlos , Lasagna‐Reeves Cristian , Mosley Amber L. , Kim Jungsu
Published: September 2024

INTRODUCTION

Rare variants in ABCA1 increase the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease (AD). ABCA1 facilitates the lipidation of apolipoprotein E (apoE). This study investigated whether microRNA‐33 (miR‐33)‐mediated regulation of this ABCA1–APOE pathway affects phenotypes of an amyloid mouse model.

METHODS

We generated mir‐33+/+;APP/PS1 and mir‐33−/−;APP/PS1 mice to determine changes in amyloid pathology using biochemical and histological analyses. We used RNA sequencing and mass spectrometry to identify the transcriptomic and proteomic changes between our genotypes. We also performed mechanistic experiments by determining the role of miR‐33 in microglial migration and amyloid beta (Aβ) phagocytosis.

RESULTS

Mir‐33 deletion increases ABCA1 levels and reduces Aβ accumulation and glial activation. Multi‐omics studies suggested miR‐33 regulates the activation and migration of microglia. We confirm that the inhibition of miR‐33 significantly increases microglial migration and Aβ phagocytosis.

DISCUSSION

These results suggest that miR‐33 might be a potential drug target by modulating ABCA1 level, apoE lipidation, Aβ level, and microglial function.

Highlights

Loss of microRNA‐33 (miR‐33) increased ABCA1 protein levels and the lipidation of apolipoprotein E.

Loss of miR‐33 reduced amyloid beta (Aβ) levels, plaque deposition, and gliosis.

mRNAs and proteins dysregulated by miR‐33 loss relate to microglia and Alzheimer's disease.

Inhibition of miR‐33 increased microglial migration and Aβ phagocytosis in vitro.
Photon‐Assisted Quantum Phase Transitions in a Cavity Optomechanical System with Two Nonlinear Mechanical Modes
Authors: Jiang Deng‐Kui , Zhang Rui , Liu Ying , Kuang Le‐Man
Published: September 2024

Photon‐assisted quantum phase transitions (QPTs) are studied in a cavity optomechanical system that consists of one optical cavity and two nonlinear mechanical resonators and explore ground‐state properties of quantum phases. It is indicated that the cavity mode can induce effective two‐phonon tunneling interaction between two mechanical resonators. It is found that QPTs between the localization phase (LP) and delocalization phase (DP) of phonons can happen through tuning the phonon tunneling interaction. It is shown that the photon‐assisted QPT is the second order QPT. Ground‐state properties of the quantum phases are also investigated. It is indicated that the ground state of the LP is a separable squeezed state while the ground state of the DP is an entangled state. The results open a new way to engineer quantum phases and QPTs in macroscopic mechanical systems and can benefit a wide range of criticality‐enhanced quantum sensing applications.
A New Class of Oxyhalide Solid Electrolytes NaNbCl6‐2xOx for Solid‐state Sodium Batteries
Authors: Kmiec Steven , Ruoff Erick , Manthiram Arumugam
Published: September 2024

Sodium‐based batteries are gaining momentum due to the abundance and lower cost of sodium compared to lithium. Solid‐state sodium batteries can also provide further safety advantages. However, sodium‐based solid‐state electrolytes (SSEs) that meet all the rigorous requirements, such as high ionic conductivity, oxidative stability with the cathode, and ease of processability, are lacking. We present here a new class of sodium‐based oxyhalide electrolytes NaNbCl6‐2xOx with a facile mechanochemical synthesis. The oxyhalide NaNbCl4O exhibits close to two orders of magnitude higher ambient‐temperature sodium‐ion conductivity (1.03×10−4 S cm−1) compared to the halide counterpart NaNbCl6 (3×10−6 S cm−1). Structural motifs unique to the oxygen content in NaNbCl6‐2xOx are identified with 23Na and 93Nb magic angle spinning nuclear magnetic resonance (MAS NMR) spectroscopy and x‐ray diffraction (XRD). Solid‐state sodium batteries assembled with NaNbCl4O electrolyte and the cobalt‐ and nickel‐free layered Na0.70Fe0.3Mn0.65Al0.05O2 cathode exhibit a maximum discharge capacity of 155 mAh g−1 with good cycle life at ambient temperature.
Homonuclear Super‐Resolution NMR Spectroscopy
Authors: Gampp Olivia , Wenchel Luca , Güntert Peter , Riek Roland
Published: September 2024

In homonuclear 1H NMR (nuclear magnetic resonance) spectra such as [1H,1H]‐NOESY (Nuclear Overhauser Enhancement spectroscopy), which is a historic cornerstone spectrum for biomolecular NMR structural biology, hundreds to thousands of cross peaks are present within a square of approximately 100 ppm2 leading to a lot of signal overlap. Spectral resolution is thus a limiting factor for unambiguous chemical shift assignment and data interpretation for dynamics and structure elucidation. Acquiring the spectra at higher magnetic fields such as at a 1.2 GHz 1H frequency helps to reduce spectral crowding, since resolution scales proportionally to the magnetic field strength. Here, we show that the linewidths of cross peaks in [1H,1H]‐NOESY and [1H,1H]‐TOCSY spectra can be further reduced by a factor of 2–3 in each dimension by super‐resolution spectroscopy. In the indirect dimension a composite exponential‐cosine weighted number of scans along the time increments are recorded and digitally smoothened by a window function, while in the direct dimension an exponential‐cosine window function is applied. Furthermore, measurement time saving by reduced‐acquisition super‐resolution (RASR) is introduced. Application to the 20 kDa protein KRAS shows that highly resolved NMR spectra suitable for automated analysis can be acquired within less than 3 hours. The method opens an avenue towards automated chemical shift assignment, dynamics and structure determination of unlabeled small and medium size proteins within 24 hours.
Prescribed‐time fault‐tolerant synchronization control of complex dynamical networks using time‐varying protocols
Authors: Lodhi Zain ul Aabidin , Zhang Kai
Published: September 2024

This research delves into the intricacies of the prescribed‐time synchronization control problem of a class of complex dynamical systems, all while factoring in the presence of time‐varying actuator faults. An innovative time‐varying protocol is initially established for the case of additive actuator faults, hinging on the solution to a particular set of parametric Lyapunov equations. Through the astute exploitation of the scalarization properties intrinsic to the solution to the parametric Lyapunov equation, the time‐varying parameter within the protocol is effectively ascertained. Furthermore, to mitigate the impact stemming from multiplicative actuator fault(s), an alternative protocol is also introduced. Through rigorous analysis rooted in the principles of Lyapunov, it is demonstrated that the synchronization errors in both scenarios remain bounded, ultimately converging to zero within a predetermined time frame. The developed protocols are employed in coupled Chua's circuit control systems with faulty actuators, and simulation results validate the efficacy of the proposed approaches.
Effects of a muscle relaxation exercise programme on test anxiety and sleep quality among fourth‐year nursing students before comprehensive examination in Palestine
Authors: Amro Mohammad , Malak Malakeh Z. , Ayed Ahmad
Published: September 2024

Introduction

There is a lack of research on the effect of progressive muscle relaxation (PMR) on minimising test anxiety and enhancing sleep quality among nursing students in Arab countries, including Palestine. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effects of a PMR intervention programme on test anxiety and sleep quality in fourth‐year nursing students before the comprehensive examination in Palestine.

Methods

A one‐group pre‐/postdesign was conducted on a group of fourth‐year nursing students before the comprehensive examination (N = 60) at Arab American University in Palestine. The PMR programme consisted of five sessions lasting 45 min over the course of 1 week and was implemented from the beginning of January to the end of January 2024.

Results

Findings indicated a significant difference in test anxiety pre‐ and post‐PMR exercise (t[59] = 19.3, p < .01). Also, a significant difference was found in sleep quality before and after the PMR exercise (t[59] = 15.4, p < .01). Additionally, no difference was found in test anxiety and sleep based on age and gender pre‐/post‐PMR intervention programme.

Conclusion

This study proposes that PMR effectively reduces test anxiety and improves sleep quality among nursing students. Therefore, the PMR programme should be incorporated as a therapeutic intervention for nursing students and students in general and particularly those suffering from test anxiety and poor sleep quality. Also, mental health counsellors and instructors can use such interventions in their therapeutic management as non‐pharmacological therapy.
Comparing perceived empathy and intervention strategies of an AI chatbot and human psychotherapists in online mental health support
Authors: Yonatan‐Leus Refael , Brukner Hadas
Published: September 2024

Background

Given the growing potential of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance therapeutic interventions and work with a large number of people, it is crucial to understand AI's differences, advantages and limitations compared with human therapists.

Methodology

This study compared an AI chatbot's and human psychotherapists' capabilities in responding to mental health enquiries in an online forum. One hundred and fifty questions from a Reddit forum, where qualified therapists provide mental health support, were selected. Each question received two responses: one from a human therapist and one generated by AI. These 300 responses were coded and compared based on empathy indices and psychological intervention types.

Results

The results indicated that AI scored significantly higher in perspective‐taking (V = 12,957, p < .001, r = .53) and empathic concern (V = 17,400, p < .001, r = .60). AI was more likely to use supportive interventions (42.2% vs. 21.8%) and slightly more likely to aim for insight‐driven change (6.41% vs. 4.57%). In contrast, human therapists were more inclined to provide advice and information (47.84% vs. 39.81%), explore dysfunctional patterns (19.95% vs. 10.29%) and ask clarifying questions (4.09% vs. 0.97%). A chi‐squared test confirmed significant differences between the intervention types used by AI and human therapists (χ2[8, N = 300] = 67.80, p < .001).

Discussion

These findings highlight AI's potential for basic perceived empathic support, especially in administrative tasks and therapist training. However, the study's scope is limited to single interactions, without the consideration of the nuanced communication available to human therapists through speech, facial expressions and body language.
Supercritical CO2 Extraction From Leptocarpha rivularis Stalks Using Box–Behnken Design
Authors: Uquiche Edgar , Cayupán Edith , Marillán Claudia , Sepúlveda Paulina
Published: September 2024

The effect of temperature, pressure, and specific solvent consumption on extraction yield from Leptocarpha rivularis stalks was studied using a Box–Behnken design. The effect of pressure on extraction yield was the most important, followed by temperature and specific solvent consumption (p ≤ 0.05). The extraction yield correlated (p ≤ 0.05) positively with the CO2 density. A diffusion model adequately described the cumulative extraction curve with the highest yield at the selected extraction condition. The inhibition of linoleic acid oxidation and the inhibition of lipoxygenase enzyme were higher in the supercritical (SC) extract than in the hydroethanolic extract. SC extraction could be used to isolate compounds from L. rivularis stalks with functional value.
Heteroatom‐induced tensile strain in copper lattice boosts CO2 electroreduction toward multi‐carbon products
Authors: Zhai Zhiyang , Li Deliang , Lu Xin , Cai Huizhu , Hu Qi , Yang Hengpan , He Chuanxin
Published: September 2024

Strain engineering on metal‐based catalysts has been utilized as an efficacious strategy to regulate the mechanism and pathways in various electrocatalytic reactions. However, controlling strain and establishing the strain‐activity relationship still remain significant challenges. Herein, three different and continuous tensile strains (CuPd‐1.90%, CuAu‐3.37%, and CuAg‐4.33%) are successfully induced by introducing heteroatoms with different atomic radius. The catalytic performances of CuPd‐1.90%, CuAu‐3.37%, and CuAg‐4.33% display a positive correlation against tensile strains in electrochemical CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR). Specifically, CuAg‐4.33% exhibits superior catalytic performance with a 77.9% Faradaic efficiency of multi‐carbon products at −300 mA cm−2 current density, significantly higher than those of pristine Cu (Cu‐0%). Theoretical calculations and in situ spectroscopies verify that tensile strain can affect the d‐band center of Cu, thereby altering the binding energy of *CO intermediates and Gibbs free energies of the C–C coupling procedure. This work might highlight a new method for precisely regulating the lattice strain of metallic catalysts in different electrocatalytic reactions.
Microwave‐Assisted One‐Step Synthesis of Palladium‐Encapsulated Covalent Organic Frameworks for Heterogeneous Catalysis
Authors: Alsudairy Ziad , Campbell Allea , Zheng Qi , Harrod Chelsea , Brown Normanda , Saintilma Allison , Maligal‐Ganesh Raghu V. , Ingram Conrad , Li Xinle
Published: September 2024

Metal‐encapsulated covalent organic frameworks (metal/COFs) represent an emerging paradigm in heterogeneous catalysis. However, the time‐intensive (usually 4 or more days) and tedious multi‐step synthesis of metal/COFs remains a significant stumbling block for their broad application. To address this challenge, we introduce a facile microwave‐assisted in situ metal encapsulation strategy to cooperatively combine COF formation and in situ palladium(II) encapsulation in one step. With this unprecedented approach, we synthesize a diverse range of palladium(II)‐encapsulated COFs (termed Mw‐Pd/COF) in the air within just an hour. Notably, this strategy is scalable for large‐scale production (~0.5 g). Leveraging the high crystallinity, porosity, and structural stability, one representative Mw‐Pd/COF exhibits remarkable activity, functional group tolerance, and recyclability for the Suzuki‐Miyaura coupling reaction at room temperature, surpassing most previously reported Pd(II)/COF catalysts with respect to catalytic performance, preparation time, and synthetic ease. This microwave‐assisted in situ metal encapsulation strategy opens a facile and rapid avenue to construct metal/COF hybrids, which hold enormous potential in a multitude of applications including heterogeneous catalysis, sensing, and energy storage.
N‐doped and Bowl‐Shaped Azabenzo[3,4]azulenofluorene: Synthesis and Characterization of Bridged Aza‐Triarylamines
Authors: Radolko Jan , Tuan Ha Minh , Molenda Ricardo , Villinger Alexander , Ehlers Peter , Langer Peter
Published: September 2024

Triarylamines are frequently employed as electron donor functional groups in a variety of organic electronic materials. We herein report the synthesis and in‐depth characterisation of aza‐analogues of fully bridged triarylamines, consisting of 5‐, 6‐ and 7‐membered rings. The impact of nitrogen doping and π‐extension on the structural, electronic and optical‐properties of these contorted heteroaromatic PAHs is thoroughly investigated and paves the way for an improved understanding of the structure‐property relationships.
Den Dialog von Wissenschaft und Industrie fördern
Authors: Rübberdt Kathrin
Published: September 2024

Ob für Spezialisten oder fachliche Grenzgänger – die Dechema‐Fachsektionen und ‐gruppen bieten für jeden das richtige Netzwerk. Spezielle wissenschaftliche Themen finden ebenso Raum wie neue Ideen, Kontakte für Kooperationen oder die Frage, wie sich große Visionen wie die Circular Economy technisch verwirklichen lassen.
Bio? Mach ich nicht!
Authors: Wagner Nathalie
Published: September 2024

Wie steht es um die biointelligente Wertschöpfung in Deutschland? Diese Frage haben sich das Fraunhofer IPA, die VDMA Services GmbH sowie die Universitäten Hohenheim und Stuttgart gestellt. Die vom Bundesforschungsministerium BMBF geförderte groß angelegte internationale Benchmark‐Untersuchung zur Biointelligenz (InBenBio) identifiziert die aktuellen globalen Entwicklungen, zieht Vergleiche zwischen den Rahmenbedingungen und Potenzialen in Deutschland sowie anderen Leitländern weltweit und gibt Handlungsimpulse für Wirtschaft, Wissenschaft, Gesellschaft und Politik. Dies hat auch Einfluss auf die Prozesstechnik und die .Befähigertechnologien.
Harnessing Pharmacogenomics in Clinical Research on Psychedelic‐Assisted Therapy
Authors: Halman Andreas , Conyers Rachel , Moore Claire , Khatri Dhrita , Sarris Jerome , Perkins Daniel
Published: September 2024

Psychedelics have recently re‐emerged as potential treatments for various psychiatric conditions that impose major public health costs and for which current treatment options have limited efficacy. At the same time, personalized medicine is increasingly being implemented in psychiatry to provide individualized drug dosing recommendations based on genetics. This review brings together these topics to explore the utility of pharmacogenomics (a key component of personalized medicine) in psychedelic‐assisted therapies. We summarized the literature and explored the potential implications of genetic variability on the pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics of psychedelic drugs including lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), psilocybin, N,N‐dimethyltryptamine (DMT), 5‐methoxy‐N,N‐dimethyltryptamine (5‐MeO‐DMT), ibogaine and 3,4‐methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA). Although existing evidence is limited, particularly concerning pharmacodynamics, studies investigating pharmacokinetics indicate that genetic variants in drug‐metabolizing enzymes, such as cytochrome P450, impact the intensity of acute psychedelic effects for LSD and ibogaine, and that a dose reduction for CYP2D6 poor metabolizers may be appropriate. Furthermore, based on the preclinical evidence, it can be hypothesized that CYP2D6 metabolizer status might contribute to altered acute psychedelic experiences with 5‐MeO‐DMT and psilocybin when combined with monoamine oxidase inhibitors. In conclusion, considering early evidence that genetic factors can influence the effects of certain psychedelics, we suggest that pharmacogenomic testing should be further investigated in clinical research. This is necessary to evaluate its utility in improving the safety and therapeutic profile of psychedelic therapies and a potential future role in personalizing psychedelic‐assisted therapies, should these treatments become available.
Lights on the Synthesis of Surfactant‐Free Colloidal Gold Nanoparticles in Alkaline Mixtures of Alcohols and Water
Authors: Røjkjær Rasmussen Ditte , Lock Nina , Quinson Jonathan
Published: September 2024

Surfactant‐free colloidal syntheses in aqueous media are attractive to develop nanomaterials relevant for various applications, e. g. catalysis or medicine. However, controlled green syntheses without surfactants of metal nanoparticles in aqueous media remain scarce. Here, room temperature syntheses of gold (Au) nanoparticles (NPs) that require only HAuCl4, alkaline water and an alcohol, i. e. relatively benign chemicals and mild reaction conditions, are developed. The findings of a comprehensive multi‐parameters screening performed in small volumes (<3 mL) over 1000+ experiments pave the way to greener high throughput screenings of large parametric spaces and lead to scalable (100 mL) synthetic strategies. A rational selection of the alcohol is proposed. The influence of lights with defined wavelengths (222–690 nm) is investigated. It is found that lights with lower wavelengths favor the formation of smaller 5 nm NPs. Different kinetics and formation pathways are observed for different alcohols and for lights with different wavelengths. The sensitivity to various experimental parameters increases with the alcohol used in the order glycerol<ethylene glycol<ethanol<methanol. New strategies for a rational fine size control, and to some extend shape control, are identified. The results lead to more sustainable and reproducible surfactant‐free colloidal syntheses of NPs.
FPGA‐Based Implementation of Real‐Time Cardiologist‐Level Arrhythmia Detection and Classification in Electrocardiograms Using Novel Deep Learning
Authors: Chandrasekaran Saravanakumar , Chandran Srinivasan , Selvam Immaculate Joy
Published: September 2024

Cardiac arrhythmia refers to irregular heartbeats caused by anomalies in electrical transmission in the heart muscle, and it is an important threat to cardiovascular health. Conventional monitoring and diagnosis still depend on the laborious visual examination of electrocardiogram (ECG) devices, even though ECG signals are dynamic and complex. This paper discusses the need for an automated system to assist clinicians in efficiently recognizing arrhythmias. The existing machine‐learning (ML) algorithms have extensive training cycles and require manual feature selection; to eliminate this, we present a novel deep learning (DL) architecture. Our research introduces a novel approach to ECG classification by combining the vision transformer (ViT) and the capsule network (CapsNet) into a hybrid model named ViT‐Cap. We conduct necessary preprocessing operations, including noise removal and signal‐to‐image conversion using short‐time Fourier transform (SIFT) and continuous wavelet transform (CWT) algorithms, on both normal and abnormal ECG data obtained from the MIT‐BIH database. The proposed model intelligently focuses on crucial features by leveraging global and local attention to explore spectrogram and scalogram image data. Initially, the model divides the images into smaller patches and linearly embeds each patch. Features are then extracted using a transformer encoder, followed by classification using the capsule module with feature vectors from the ViT module. Comparisons with existing conventional models show that our proposed model outperforms the original ViT and CapsNet in terms of classification accuracy for both binary and multi‐class ECG classification. The experimental findings demonstrate an accuracy of 99% on both scalogram and spectrogram images. Comparative analysis with state‐of‐the‐art methodologies confirms the superiority of our framework. Additionally, we configure a field‐programmable gate array (FPGA) to implement the proposed model for real‐time arrhythmia classification, aiming to enhance user‐friendliness and speed. Despite numerous suggestions for high‐performance FPGA accelerators in the literature, our FPGA‐based accelerator utilizes optimization of loop parallelization, FP data, and multiply accumulation (MAC) unit. Our accelerator architecture achieves a 57% reduction in processing time and utilizes fewer resources compared to a floating‐point (FlP) design.
Metal‐Halide–Melem Compounds Based on M6‐, M9‐ and M12‐Clusters
Authors: Ströbele Markus , Enseling David , Jüstel Thomas , Abbasi Mojtaba , Kroeker Scott , Meyer Hans‐Jürgen
Published: September 2024

M9‐ and M12‐metal clusters appear as face‐sharing double‐clusters in (Pb9Br19)2(Pb1.5Br2)2(melem)3 (6) and as triple‐clusters in (Pb12Br25)4(Pb1.67Br2)3(melem)4 (7). All compounds are characterized by single‐crystal and powder X‐ray diffraction, and further validated by infrared (IR) spectroscopy and 207Pb and 79/81Br NMR studies on (5). Photoluminescence studies on compound (6) reveal emission at 430 nm while the emission of (5) is completely quenched.
Isomerism in Phenyl 2‐Pyridyl Ketoxime Metal Complexes
Authors: Hirva Pipsa , Jääskeläinen Sirpa , Ollikainen Meeri , Ofori Albert , Koshevoy Igor O.
Published: September 2024

The octahedral complex [RhCl2(ppkoH)(ppko)] (1) was obtained from the reaction between RhCl3 and phenyl 2‐pyridyl ketoxime (ppkoH). Attempts to prepare the corresponding octahedral platinum compound from K2PtCl6 gave instead the square planar [Pt2+(ppko)2] (2), but when the halogen was changed to bromine, the octahedral [Pt4+Br2(ppko)2] (3) was formed. The crystal structures were determined by X‐Ray crystallography. All the compounds have two N,N‐chelating oxime ligands. In 1, one of them is deprotonated, while in 2 and 3 both ligands are deprotonated. Compounds 1 and 3 have two halogen ligands in trans position. In 1 the oxime groups are situated mutually in cis position with an intramolecular hydrogen bond between the two N−O(H) groups. The formation of 2 involves reduction of the platinum metal and the complex has oximes in trans position to each other. Compound 3 has an all‐trans geometry. Since octahedral and square planar compounds have a possibility to isomerism, we studied the relative stability of different geometries by DFT calculations. A mixture of isomers is likely to be formed in the reactions, but the most stable form was found to crystallize. The properties of the electron density in the preferred isomers were also investigated via QTAIM methods.
Developmental Validation of the Microreader 23HS Plex ID System: A Novel Supplementary Non‐CODIS STR Multiplex Assay for Forensic Application
Authors: Li Hui , Ren He , Yang Fan , Chen Man , Sun Weifen , Jiang Lei , Gao Zhixiao , Liu Yacheng , Liu Xiling
Published: September 2024

A novel supplementary non‐CODIS STR multiplex assay designated as the “Microreader 23HS Plex ID System” was developed. The Microreader 23HS Plex ID System enables simultaneous profiling of 23 STR loci and the amelogenin locus. The majority of these loci are non‐CODIS STRs (D4S2408, D9S2157, D20S161, D3S2459, D18S1364, D13S305, D1S2142, D19S400, D6S1017, D7S1517, D2S1776, D2S1360, D3S1744, D16S3391, D3S1545, D11S4463, D20S85, D1S549, D10S2325, D21S2055), with the exception of three CODIS STRs (D2S441, D12S391, and D22S1045). Followed the recommendations of Scientific Working Group on DNA Analysis Methods (SWGDAM) and the Chinese validation standards, a comprehensive set of validation studies were conducted, encompassing PCR conditions, stutter ratio and peak height balance, sensitivity, precision and accuracy, reproducibility, species specificity, inhibition, as well as mixture testing. The results demonstrated that the Microreader 23HS Plex ID System is a reliable and robust assay, with well‐balanced peak heights, high precision and accuracy, species specificity, and resistance to common inhibitors. The sensitivity of the assay was determined to be 0.125 ng of template DNA. In mixture study, all minor alleles were detected in two‐sample mixtures across various ratios (1:19, 1:9, 1:4, 3:7, 2:3, 1:1, 3:2, 4:1, 9:1, and 19:1). In population study, a total of 500 unrelated individuals of Han ethnicity from East China were genotyped. The allele frequencies and forensic population genetic parameters were calculated, with a cumulative random match probability of 7.757 × 10−27, and a total power of discrimination exceeding 0.999,999,999,999,999,999,999,999,99. In conclusion, the Microreader 23HS Plex ID System shows promise as a valuable supplementary tool for forensic applications, particularly in addressing complex kinship testing and challenges posed by STR mutation.
On the mechanical behavior of polymeric lattice structures fabricated by stereolithography 3D printing
Authors: Malekan Mohammad , Sigurjónsson Bragi
Published: September 2024

The utilization of 3D printing technology has transformed the possibilities for design adaptability and manufacturability. This study delves into the mechanical response and energy absorptivity of resin‐based lattice structures when subjected to compression, specifically examining structures fabricated from Tough 2000 (ductile) and Rigid 10K (brittle) resin materials using a stereolithography 3D printer. The analysis encompasses various types of lattice designs (such as cubic‐primitive, circular, triangular, and hexagonal), gradient structures, and combined shape configurations with varying strut dimensions. The primary objective is to provide significant findings regarding the compressive performance of these resin lattice structures produced through 3D printing. Analysis results show that graded and combined lattice designs have better compressive behavior compared to regular shapes with the same strut thickness. In addition, and for strut thickness of 0.5 mm, combined lattice designs show better energy absorption capabilities compared to regular shapes.
A robust approach to satellite image encryption using chaotic map and circulant matrices
Authors: Kanwal Shamsa , Inam Saba , Shah Asghar Ali , Iqbal Halima , Bilal Anas , Hashmi Muhammad Usman , Sarwar Raheem
Published: September 2024

In the modern era, where satellite imagery is vital for applications like ecological monitoring and national security, ensuring the safety and integrity of these data repositories is crucial. This study presents an improved satellite image encryption technique that combines the cryptographic strength of the circulant matrix in the Hill cipher with the dynamic characteristics of the hyperbolic tangent tent map, further enhanced by the Kronecker XOR product. The algorithm initiates with computing alterations by a shift amount. After preserving the leftmost pixel in each row, it executes XOR operations between alternating rows, combining the value of the current even or odd row with corresponding pixels in the adjacent rows followed by encryption using the Hill cipher. The resulting image undergoes a diffusion process utilizing a hyperbolic tangent tent map. The Kronecker XOR product operation is then applied to individual pixels to produce a secure image followed by additional diffusion with keys from the hyperbolic tangent tent map to achieve the final encrypted image. We conducted simulations using MATLAB to assess the efficiency of the proposed satellite image encryption from theoretical and statistical perspectives. The results exhibit robust encryption performance as demonstrated by metrics such as an entropy value of 7.9982, a UACI of 33.5333%, and an NPCR of 99.6038%. The experiment results demonstrate the proposed image encryption scheme's reliability, practicability, and efficiency in securing satellite images during data storage and transmission. Comprehensive testing against various attacks including correlation, histogram, chi‐square, NPCR, PSNR, UACI, SSIM, key space and key sensitivity analysis confirms the scheme's robustness, efficiency and speed. These findings verify the scheme's ability to come across the most stringent encryption and decryption standards, making it an effective solution for securing sensitive satellite image data.
Developmental maturation and regional heterogeneity but no sexual dimorphism of the murine CNS myelin proteome
Authors: Siems Sophie B. , Gargareta Vasiliki‐Ilya , Schadt Leonie C. , Daguano Gastaldi Vinicius , Jung Ramona B. , Piepkorn Lars , Casaccia Patrizia , Sun Ting , Jahn Olaf , Werner Hauke B.
Published: September 2024

The molecules that constitute myelin are critical for the integrity of axon/myelin‐units and thus speed and precision of impulse propagation. In the CNS, the protein composition of oligodendrocyte‐derived myelin has evolutionarily diverged and differs from that in the PNS. Here, we hypothesized that the CNS myelin proteome also displays variations within the same species. We thus used quantitative mass spectrometry to compare myelin purified from mouse brains at three developmental timepoints, from brains of male and female mice, and from four CNS regions. We find that most structural myelin proteins are of approximately similar abundance across all tested conditions. However, the abundance of multiple other proteins differs markedly over time, implying that the myelin proteome matures between P18 and P75 and then remains relatively constant until at least 6 months of age. Myelin maturation involves a decrease of cytoskeleton‐associated proteins involved in sheath growth and wrapping, along with an increase of all subunits of the septin filament that stabilizes mature myelin, and of multiple other proteins which potentially exert protective functions. Among the latter, quinoid dihydropteridine reductase (QDPR) emerges as a highly specific marker for mature oligodendrocytes and myelin. Conversely, female and male mice display essentially similar myelin proteomes. Across the four CNS regions analyzed, we note that spinal cord myelin exhibits a comparatively high abundance of HCN2‐channels, required for particularly long sheaths. These findings show that CNS myelination involves developmental maturation of myelin protein composition, and regional differences, but absence of evidence for sexual dimorphism.
H‐2A workers' preferences for job attributes: Evidence from an experiment
Authors: Gallardo Karina , Gutiérrez‐Li Alejandro , Luckstead Jeffrey , Nayga Rodolfo M. , Sallato Bernardita , Yang Wei
Published: September 2024

Diminishing labor availability is a pressing issue for US farmers. We surveyed H‐2A farmworkers and conducted a discrete choice experiment to estimate their willingness to accept different job benefits. Respondents identified the opportunity to return home as the most valuable perk. The second highest valued job attribute was training in both English and machinery operation, followed by the employer offering housing amenities. The least valued benefit was the opportunity to earn overtime pay. This study provides new insights about the type of program modifications that might be valued more by workers in the context of proposals to modify labor rules.
The work environment and hospitalist work well‐being and burnout
Authors: Warner Megan E. , Weinstein Ali A. , Venkatesan Chalapathy , de Avila Leyla , Taori Maansi , Younossi Zobair M.
Published: September 2024

Background

Hospital medicine is the largest growing specialty in the United States. It is important to understand factors that are related to burnout and work well‐being (WWB), both predictors of workforce retention.

Objective

To examine the relationship between work environment factors and hospitalist burnout and WWB.

Methods

An online cross‐sectional survey was completed by hospitalists in July–October 2020. Burnout was assessed using the Mini‐Z burnout scale and the Abbreviated Maslach Burnout Inventory. WWB was assessed using the Work Well‐Being Scale. Work structure variables included hours worked per week, frustration at work, safety level of clinical workload, lack of control over schedule, lack of control over daily work, continuity of patient care, and ability to optimize license. The current desire to practice medicine was also examined.

Results

Eight‐eight hospitalists participated. There were statistically significant differences between levels of safety of workload (F(2,85) = 9.70, p = <.005), frustration at work (F(2,85) = 12.29, p = <.005), control over schedule (F(2,85) = 3.17, p = .04), control over daily work (F(2,85) = 6.17, p = .003), and desire to practice medicine (F(2,85) = 42.34, p = <.005) with WWB. There were statistically significant associations between the presence of burnout and the safety of workload (χ2 = 8.167, p = .017), frustration at work (χ2 = 15.29, p = .005), control over daily work (χ2 = 12.48, p = .002), and desire to practice medicine (χ2 = 7.12, p = .03). WWB was positively associated with years as a hospitalist (r = .249, p = .02)).

Conclusion

Work environment factors are associated with WWB and burnout. Modifiable work environment factors may offer a point of intervention for reducing burnout and enhancing WWB among hospitalists.
Changes in the soil microbial community 5 years after the application of sewage sludge biochar to soils cultivated with corn
Authors: Cruz André Freire , Borges Lurdineide de Araújo Barbosa , Gomes Mateus Oliveira , de Figueiredo Cícero Célio
Published: September 2024

Background

Sewage sludge biochar has been widely used in agriculture for various purposes; however, knowledge about its residual effect on the soil microbial community is limited.

Aims

This study aimed to evaluate changes in the microbial community 5 years after the application of sewage sludge biochar.

Methods

Biochar was produced from sewage sludge obtained at a wastewater treatment pyrolyzed at 300°C (Biochar300) and 500°C (Biochar500). Both biochar treatments were applied in corn fields for two growing seasons (2014/2015; 2015/2016). Biochar was not applied from the third (2016/2017) to the seventh (2020/2021) growing season to assess the residual effect. Soil samples were collected after harvesting in 2020/2021 growing season, therefore in the fifth year subject to the residual effects of biochar. The microbial community was evaluated by accessing bacterial and fungal groups using DNA techniques. Amplicon sequencing analysis was performed with the samples by Illumina MiSeq 250 bp.

Results

At genus level, the Lachnospira, Faecalibacterium, Bacteroides, Epulopiscium, and Parabacteroides were affected by Biochar500. Furthermore, at upper levels of taxonomy, this biochar treatment increased the relative abundance of bacterial classes Clostridiaceae and Bacteroidia and the fungal families Chaetomiaceae and Aspergillaceae. Concerning the relationship between microbial community and soil chemical properties, soil phosphorus (P) and calcium (Ca) were significantly affected by biochar treatments within the bacterial community; the fungal ones affected significantly soil P and potential acidity (H + Al).

Conclusions

Even under the residual effect of 5 years, the application of biochar altered the microbial community on corn plantation, especially concerning on the richness and the abundance of some groups. Biochar500 was the most responsive among the treatments.
Myrmecophaga tridactyla (Linnaeus, 1758) subfossils from Abismo Anhumas, Bonito/MS, Brazil: Morphology, isotopic habitat (δ13C, δ18O), radiocarbon dating, biogeography and human impact on the species conservation in Brazil
Authors: Miranda Flavia , Cotts Leonardo , Da Costa Júnior Edmundo P. Dineli , Margarido Maíra Prestes , Cherkinsky Alexander , Dantas Mário André Trindade
Published: September 2024

Myrmecophaga tridactyla Linnaeus, 1758 is the largest extant anteater, being distributed in most biomes from southern Central America and northern South America. Herein, we analyzed cranial and postcranial elements of three partial skeletons of M. tridactyla found submerged in Abismo Anhumas cave (Bonito, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil). The bones collected were the skull (LEG 2598), left humerus (LEG 2601), ungueal phalanx (LEG 2602), and lumbar vertebrae (LEG 2599; LEG 2600). Radiocarbon dating and isotope analyses indicate that these animals lived between 360 and 560 cal a BP in an arboreal to open savanna habitat associated with the Cerrado, a Seasonal Dry Forest. Radiocarbon‐dated oxygen isotopes are possibly in agreement with dated oxygen isotopes found in stalagmites, suggesting a wet period between 442–364 cal a BP in the region. Finally, we created paleo‐species distribution models, which allowed the generation of a consensus map showing a historically stable area between 21 and 6 ka for this species. Currently, more than 50% of this area has been destroyed by human activity.
Impact of Neoadjuvant Therapy on Oncological Outcomes of Patients With Distal Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Chopra Asmita , Gebran Anthony , Khachfe Hussein , Asmar Rudy El , Nassour Ibrahim , Narayanan Sowmya , AlMasri Samer , Singhi Aatur , Lee Kenneth , Zureikat Amer , Paniccia Alessandro
Published: September 2024

Background

Distal pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (D‐PDAC) often presents at an advanced stage. The efficacy of neoadjuvant therapy (NAT) in improving outcomes for D‐PDAC is not well‐established. This study evaluates the impact of NAT on the oncological outcomes of patients with D‐PDAC.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study of consecutive patients with resectable and borderline‐resectable D‐PDAC treated at a single center from 2012 to 2020 was performed. Stratification was based on initial treatment—NAT or surgery first (SF). Survival analysis, following intention‐to‐treat framework, used Kaplan–Meier and Cox regression to assess NAT's impact on progression‐free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) of D‐PDAC.

Results

Among 141 patients (median age 69.8 years, 51.8% females) included in the study, 71 (50.4%) received NAT and 70 (49.6%) were planned for SF. Patients receiving NAT were younger (65.9 vs. 72.6 years) and had higher incidence of borderline‐resectable disease (31% vs. 4.3%) (both p < 0.05) than those undergoing SF. Thirteen patients (18.3%) undergoing NAT and five (7.1%) in SF group, failed to undergo resection. Univariate comparison showed no difference in the PFS (SF:13.97 vs. NAT:17.00 months, p = 0.6), and OS (SF:23.73 vs. NAT:32.53 months, p = 0.35). Multivariate Cox regression analysis noted significantly improved PFS (HR = 0.64, 95%CI = 0.42–0.96, p = 0.031) and OS (HR = 0.60, 95%CI = 0.39–0.93, p = 0.021) with NAT.

Conclusion

NAT is associated with improved PFS and OS in patients with ‐D‐PDAC. Further randomized controlled trials are warranted to confirm these findings.