bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Affordable and real-time antimicrobial resistance prediction from multimodal electronic health records
Authors: Hardan Shahad , Shaaban Mai A. , Abdalla Jehad , Yaqub Mohammad
Published: July 2024

The spread of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) leads to challenging complications and losses of human lives plus medical resources, with a high expectancy of deterioration in the future if the problem is not controlled. From a machine learning perspective, data-driven models could aid clinicians and microbiologists by anticipating the resistance beforehand. Our study serves as the first attempt to harness deep learning (DL) techniques and the multimodal data available in electronic health records (EHR) for predicting AMR. In this work, we utilize and preprocess the MIMIC-IV database extensively to produce separate structured input sources for time-invariant and time-series data customized to the AMR task. Then, a multimodality fusion approach merges the two modalities with clinical notes to determine resistance based on an antibiotic or a pathogen. To efficiently predict AMR, our approach builds the foundation for deploying multimodal DL techniques in clinical practice, leveraging the existing patient data.
LHFFNet: A hybrid feature fusion method for lane detection
Authors: Kao Youchen , Che Shengbing , Zhou Sha , Guo Shenyi , Zhang Xu , Wang Wanqin
Published: July 2024

Lane line images have the essential attribute of large-scale variation and complex scene information, and the similarity between adjacent lane lines is high, which can easily cause classification errors. And remote lane lines are difficult to recognize due to visual angle changes in width. To address this issue, this paper proposes an effective lane detection framework, which is a hybrid feature fusion network that enhances multiple spatial features and distinguishes key features throughout the entire lane line segment. It enhances and fuses lane line features at multiscale to enhance the feature representation of lane line images, especially at the far end. Firstly, in order to enhance the correlation of multiscale lane features, a multi-head self attention is used to construct a multi-space attention enhancement module for feature enhancement in multispace. Secondly, a spatial separable convolutional branch is designed for the jumping layer structure connecting multiscale lane line features. While retaining feature information of different scales, important lane areas in multiscale feature information are emphasized through the allocation of spatial attention weights. Finally, considering that lane lines are elongated areas in the image, and the background information in the image is much more abundant than lane line information, the flexibility of traditional pooling operations in capturing widely existing anisotropic contexts in actual environments is limited. Therefore, before embedding feature output branches, strip pooling is introduced to refine the representation of lane line information and optimize model performance. The experimental results show that the accuracy on the TuSimple dataset reaches 96.84%, and the F1 score on the CULane dataset reaches 75.9%.
Evaluation of a prototype metal artifact reduction algorithm for cone beam CT in patients undergoing radioembolization
Authors: Can Elif , Böning Georg , Lüdemann Willie Magnus , Hosse Clarissa , Kolck Johannes , Paparoditis Sophia , Nguyen Thao , Piper Sophie K. , Geisel Dominik , Wieners Gero , Gebauer Bernhard , Elkilany Aboelyazid , Jonczyk Martin
Published: July 2024

Metal artifacts notoriously pose significant challenge in computed tomography (CT), leading to inaccuracies in image formation and interpretation. Artifact reduction tools have been designed to improve cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) image quality by reducing artifacts caused by certain high-density materials. Metal artifact reduction (MAR) tools are specific algorithms that are applied during image reconstruction to minimize or eliminate artifacts degrading CBCT images. The purpose of the study is to evaluate the effect of a MAR algorithm on image quality in CBCT performed for evaluating patients before transarterial radioembolization (TARE). We retrospectively included 40 consecutive patients (aged 65 ± 13 years; 23 males) who underwent 45 CBCT examinations (Allura FD 20, XperCT Roll protocol, Philips Healthcare, Best, The Netherlands) in the setting of evaluation for TARE between January 2017 and December 2018. Artifacts caused by coils, catheters, and surgical clips were scored subjectively by four readers on a 5-point scale (1 = artifacts affecting diagnostic information to 5 = no artifacts) using a side-by-side display of uncorrected and MAR-corrected images. In addition, readers scored tumor visibility and vessel discrimination. MAR-corrected images were assigned higher scores, indicating better image quality. The differences between the measurements with and without MAR were most impressive for coils with a mean improvement of 1.6 points (95%CI [1.5 1.8]) on the 5-point likert scale, followed by catheters 1.4 points (95%CI [1.3 1.5]) and clips 0.7 points (95%CI [0.3 1.1]). Improvements for other artifact sources were consistent but relatively small (below 0.25 points on average). Interrater agreement was good to perfect (Kendall’s W coefficient = 0.68–0.95) and was higher for MAR-corrected images, indicating that MAR improves diagnostic accuracy. A metal artifact reduction algorithm can improve diagnostic and interventional accuracy of cone beam CT in patients undergoing radioembolization by reducing artifacts caused by diagnostic catheters and coils, lowering interference of metal artifacts with adjacent major structures, and improving tumor visibility.
Reproducibility analysis of bioimpedance-based self-developed live cell assays
Authors: Vizvari Zoltan , Gyorfi Nina , Maczko Gergo , Varga Reka , Jakabfi-Csepregi Rita , Sari Zoltan , Furedi Andras , Bajtai Eszter , Vajda Flora , Tadic Vladimir , Odry Peter , Karadi Zoltan , Toth Attila
Published: July 2024

Bioimpedance spectrum (BIS) measurements have a great future in in vitro experiments, meeting all the requirements for non-destructive and label-free methods. Nevertheless, a real basic research can provide the necessary milestones to achieve the success of the method. In this paper a self-developed technology-based approach for in vitro assays is proposed. Authors invented a special graphene-based measuring plate in order to assess the high sensitivity and reproducibility of introduced technique. The design of the self-produced BIS plates maximizes the detection capacity of qualitative changes in cell culture and it is robust against physical effects and artifacts. The plates do not influence the viability and proliferation, however the results are robust, stable and reproducible regardless of when and where the experiments are carried out. In this study, physiological saline concentrations, two cancer and stem cell lines were utilized. All the results were statistically tested and confirmed. The findings of the assays show, that the introduced BIS technology is appropriate to be used in vitro experiments with high efficacy. The experimental results demonstrate high correlation values across the replicates, and the model parameters suggested that the characteristic differences among the various cell lines can be detected using appropriate hypothesis tests.
Early warning signals for predicting cryptomarket vendor success using dark net forum networks
Authors: Boekhout Hanjo D. , Blokland Arjan A. J. , Takes Frank W.
Published: July 2024

In this work we focus on identifying key players in dark net cryptomarkets that facilitate online trade of illegal goods. Law enforcement aims to disrupt criminal activity conducted through these markets by targeting key players vital to the market’s existence and success. We particularly focus on detecting successful vendors responsible for the majority of illegal trade. Our methodology aims to uncover whether the task of key player identification should center around plainly measuring user and forum activity, or that it requires leveraging specific patterns of user communication. We focus on a large-scale dataset from the Evolution cryptomarket, which we model as an evolving communication network. Results indicate that user and forum activity, measured through topic engagement, is best able to identify successful vendors. Interestingly, considering users with higher betweenness centrality in the communication network further improves performance, also identifying successful vendors with moderate activity on the forum. But more importantly, analyzing the forum data over time, we find evidence that attaining a high betweenness score comes before vendor success. This suggests that the proposed network-driven approach of modelling user communication might prove useful as an early warning signal for key player identification.
Optimized medium composition in Physalis alkekengi callus culture altered nitric oxide level for inducing antioxidant enzyme activities and secondary metabolites
Authors: Hassanpour Halimeh
Published: July 2024

Physalis alkekengiL. is a valuable medicinal plant from the Solanaceae family and has multiple therapeutic applications. This study aimed to develop an optimized protocol for callogenesis inP. alkekengito obtain friable calluses with high biomass. The effect of different concentrations of picloram, casein hydrolysate (CH), basal media (Murashige and Skoog (MS) and Gamborg (B5)), and static magnetic field (SMF) were investigated on the callus induction and growth, signaling molecules, and enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants. Results showed that CH (200 mgL−1) and SMF4 mT for 90 min increased callus induction and fresh weight inP. alkekengi, while different concentrations of picloram reduced callogenesis. Hypocotyl explants showed various callogenesis and metabolic responses depending on the basal medium type. The 2B5 medium supplied with CH 200 (mgL−1) induced friable and cream calluses with high biomass (0.62 g) compared to the MS medium (control). The maximum activity of superoxide dismutase and catalase activities was identified in the 2B5 medium and peroxidase in the 2MS medium. The highest total phenolic (129.44 µg g−1DW) content and phenylalanine-ammonia lyase activity were obtained in the 2MS medium, and total withanolides (49.86 µg g-1DW) and DPPH radical scavenging activity were observed in the 2B5 medium. The 2MS medium boosted the hydrogen peroxide and nitric oxide levels, while their contents alleviated in the 2B5 medium, although these parameters were higher than the control. The findings of this study suggest that an effective protocol for successful callogenesis inP. alkekengiand the nutrient composition of culture medium by affecting the level of signaling molecules can control the antioxidant defense system and callus growth.
Land use change and Ecological Network in rapid urban growth region in Selangor region, Malaysia
Authors: Ma Tian Zi , Teh Bor Tsong , Kho Mei Ye
Published: July 2024

Rapid urbanization will cause various land use changes and the vast occupation of green spaces, a critical factor in the deterioration of biodiversity in urbanized areas. Some species of wildlife are endangered due to habitat shrunk and fragmentation. However, Malaysia's current biodiversity protection range is still limited. The Ecological Network (EN) refers to a framework of ecological components, which can be obtained by geographical and technical approaches to support more ecological diversity ranges. Furthermore, little research has been found on EN in Malaysia and the impact of land use change on EN. Therefore, the Selangor region is selected as the study area. This paper quantifies land use change and measures the extent of land use change to obtain the EN’s change. The result has shown that forestland has decreased, explored by people for housing and agriculture from 2000 to 2020. The EN has a trend of fragmentation. Overall, this study's results imply that the land use change led to EN's worsened performance from 2000 to 2020 in the study area. This paper hopes that this research could help supply information on conserving biodiversity in future development and urban sustainable planning in Malaysia.
Construction and application of product optimisation design model driven by user requirements
Authors: Hu Zhigang , Jia Dongyi , Qiao Xianling , Zhang Nan
Published: July 2024

User requirements serve as the primary reference content in product design. The effective capture of crucial user requirements, followed by the development of a product technical solution aligned with these requirements, stands as a pivotal approach to enhancing design efficiency. In order to explore the problem of generating and decision-making of product technical solutions in the case of complex user demands, this study constructs a user requirements driven product optimization design model, which is used to complete the generation and decision-making of product design solutions in a more reasonable way. The model unfolds across three key stages: Firstly, a user requirements importance ranking system is crafted leveraging Kano Model and Pairwise Analysis. Next, employing the Functional Analysis System Techniques (FAST) theory and the Quality Function Deployment (QFD) theory, user requirements undergo transformation into technical solutions. Finally, these technical solutions are amalgamated into diverse technical combinations, with decisions facilitated by a game theory model to yield the optimal overall design solution. The new optimal design model reduces the influence of subjectivity and ambiguity in the process of user requirements analysis, increases the reliability of the transformation of user requirements into technical solutions, and improves the efficiency of the generation and decision-making of product design solutions under multiobjective situations. The model proposed in this study is exemplified through the development of a medicated bath water heater. Results indicate that the technical solution derived from the model surpasses similar products in terms of user satisfaction, thereby validating its feasibility.
Delta waves as a sign of cortical plasticity after full-face transplantation
Authors: Süzen Esra , Şavklıyıldız Ayhan , Özkan Ömer , Çolak Ömer Halil , Apaydın Doğan Ebru , Özkan Özlenen , Şimşek Buket , Uluşar Ümit Deniz , Carlak Hamza Feza , Polat Övünç , Uysal Hilmi
Published: July 2024

This study focused on detecting the reflections of healing and change in cortex activation in full-face transplantation and lesions patients on EEG activity. Face transplant patients have facial lesions before transplantation and, to identify pre-face transplant patients' brain activity in the absence of pre-transplant recordings, we used data obtained from pre-transplant facial lesion patients. Ten healthy, four facial lesion and three full-face transplant patients participated in this study. EEG data recorded for four different sensory stimuli (brush from the right face, right hand, left face, and left-hand regions) were analyzed using wavelet packet transform method. EEG waves were analyzed for standard bands. Our findings indicate significant change in the 2–4 Hz frequency range which may be a result of ongoing or previous cortical reorganization for face lesion and transplant patients. Alterations of the delta wave seen in patients with facial lesion and face transplant can also be explained by the intense central plasticity. Our findings show that the delta band differences might be used as a marker in the evaluation of post-transplant cortical plasticity in the future.
A new leaf essential oil from the Andean species Gynoxys szyszylowiczii Hieron. of southern Ecuador: chemical and enantioselective analyses
Authors: Maldonado Yessenia E. , Malagón Omar , Cumbicus Nixon , Gilardoni Gianluca
Published: July 2024

The essential oil obtained from the dry leaves of Gynoxys szyszylowiczii Hieron. was described in this study for the first time. The chemical analysis, conducted on two stationary phases of different polarity, permitted to identify sixty-four compounds, that were quantified with at least one column. The main components, on a non-polar and polar stationary phase respectively, were germacrene D (21.6–19.2%), α-pinene (4.4–4.9%), n-tricosane (4.3% on both columns), (E)-β-caryophyllene (3.3–4.3%), 1-docosene (3.2–2.8%), α-cadinol (2.8–3.1%), and cis-β-guaiene (2.6–3.0%). This investigation was complemented by the enantioselective analysis of some major chiral compounds, carried out on two chiral selectors based on β-cyclodextrines. As a result, (S)-( +)-α-phellandrene, (S)-( +)-β-phellandrene, and (1S,2R,6R,7R,8R)-( +)-α-copaene appeared enantiomerically pure, whereas α-pinene, β-pinene, terpinen-4-ol, and germacrene D were detected as scalemic mixtures. Finally, linalool was practically racemic. The distillation yield, analytically calculated by weight of dry plant material, was 0.03%.
Prediction of formation abrasiveness under the action of a PDC bit based on the fractal dimension of a rock surface
Authors: Wang Changhao , Li Shaojie , Li You , Hou Lidong , Bai Jinsong , Feng Qianwen , Liu Zhaoyi
Published: July 2024

During rock drilling, a drill bit will wear as it breaks the rock. However, there is no uniform grading standard for rock abrasiveness. To solve this problem, the wear mechanisms of a polycrystalline diamond compact (PDC) bit and the formation it is drilling into are analyzed in depth, and an abrasiveness evaluation method based on the fractal dimension of the rock surface topography is established. Initially, a three-dimensional digital model is generated from a scanning electron microscope image of the rock after drilling; next, an evaluation of the irregularities on the rock surface is performed using an adapted Weierstrass–Mandelbrot (W-M) function to ascertain the fractal dimensionality. Then, the microcontact characteristics of the contact surface between the formation and the PDC bit are analyzed, and the distribution of the microconvex contact points of the two-body friction pair in a region is obtained. Because the sliding friction between the drill bit and the rock produces a large amount of heat, according to the contact area formula of the friction surface and heat conduction theory, the temperature rise and overall temperature distribution of the formation and PDC bit under the condition of sliding friction are revealed, and the real contact area between the formation and the drill bit within a certain temperature range is obtained. Finally, the evaluation index of rock abrasiveness under sliding conditions is established by adopting the wear weight loss of the rock cutting tool per unit volume as the index of rock abrasiveness, and the model is verified by a microdrilling experiment. The research in this paper is highly important for improving the rock-breaking efficiency and bit service life during drilling.
Identification of a pro-protein synthesis osteosarcoma subtype for predicting prognosis and treatment
Authors: Yi Chengfeng , Liu Jun , Zhao Shibing , Gong Deliang , Xu Bohan , Li Ao , Bian Erbao , Tian Dasheng
Published: July 2024

Osteosarcoma (OS) is a heterogeneous malignant spindle cell tumor that is aggressive and has a poor prognosis. Although combining surgery and chemotherapy has significantly improved patient outcomes, the prognosis for OS patients with metastatic or recurrent OS has remained unsatisfactory. Therefore, it is imperative to gain a fresh perspective on OS development mechanisms and treatment strategies. After studying single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) data in public databases, we identified seven OS subclonal types based on intra-tumor heterogeneity. Subsequently, we constructed a prognostic model based on pro-protein synthesis osteosarcoma (PPS-OS)-associated genes. Correlation analysis showed that the prognostic model performs extremely well in predicting OS patient prognosis. We also demonstrated that the independent risk factors for the prognosis of OS patients were tumor primary site, metastatic status, and risk score. Based on these factors, nomograms were constructed for predicting the 3- and 5-year survival rates. Afterward, the investigation of the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) revealed the vital roles of γδ T-cell and B-cell activation. Drug sensitivity analysis and immune checkpoint analysis identified drugs that have potential application value in OS. Finally, the jumping translocation breakpoint (JTB) gene was selected for experimental validation. JTB silencing suppressed the proliferation, migration, and invasion of OS cells. Therefore, our research suggests that PPS-OS-related genes facilitate the malignant progression of OS and may be employed as prognostic indicators and therapeutic targets in OS.
Antibiotics are associated with worse outcomes in lung cancer patients treated with chemotherapy and immunotherapy
Authors: Elkrief Arielle , Méndez-Salazar Eder Orlando , Maillou Jade , Vanderbilt Chad M. , Gogia Pooja , Desilets Antoine , Messaoudene Meriem , Kelly Daniel , Ladanyi Marc , Hellmann Matthew D. , Zitvogel Laurence , Rudin Charles M. , Routy Bertrand , Derosa Lisa , Schoenfeld Adam J.
Published: July 2024

Anti-PD(L)-1 inhibition combined with platinum doublet chemotherapy (Chemo-IO) has become the most frequently used standard of care regimen in patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). The negative impact of antibiotics on clinical outcomes prior to anti-PD(L)-1 inhibition monotherapy (IO) has been demonstrated in multiple studies, but the impact of antibiotic exposure prior to initiation of Chemo-IO is controversial. We assessed antibiotic exposures at two time windows: within 60 days prior to therapy (-60 d window) and within 60 days prior to therapy and 42 days after therapy (-60 + 42d window) in 2028 patients with advanced NSCLC treated with Chemo-IO and IO monotherapy focusing on objective response rate (ORR: rate of partial response and complete response), progression-free survival (PFS), and overall survival (OS). We also assessed impact of antibiotic exposure in an independent cohort of 53 patients. Univariable and multivariable analyses were conducted along with a meta-analysis from similar studies. For the -60 d window, in the Chemo-IO group (N = 769), 183 (24%) patients received antibiotics. Antibiotic exposure was associated with worse ORR (27% vs 40%, p = 0.001), shorter PFS (3.9 months vs. 5.9 months, hazard ratio [HR] 1.35, 95%CI 1.1,1.6, p = 0.0012), as well as shorter OS (10 months vs. 15 months, HR 1.50, 95%CI 1.2,1.8, p = 0.00014). After adjusting for known prognostic factors in NSCLC, antibiotic exposure was independently associated with worse PFS (HR 1.39, 95%CI 1.35,1.7, p = 0.002) and OS (HR 1.61, 95%CI 1.28,2.03, p < 0.001). Similar results were obtained in the -60 + 42d window, and also in an independent cohort. In a meta-analysis of patients with NSCLC treated with Chemo-IO (N = 4) or IO monotherapy (N = 13 studies) antibiotic exposure before treatment was associated with worse OS among all patients (n = 11,351) (HR 1.93, 95% CI 1.52, 2.45) and Chemo-IO-treated patients (n = 1201) (HR 1.54, 95% CI 1.28, 1.84). Thus, antibiotics exposure prior to Chemo-IO is common and associated with worse outcomes, even after adjusting for other factors. These results highlight the need to implement antibiotic stewardship in routine oncology practice.
From virtual patients to digital twins in immuno-oncology: lessons learned from mechanistic quantitative systems pharmacology modeling
Authors: Wang Hanwen , Arulraj Theinmozhi , Ippolito Alberto , Popel Aleksander S.
Published: July 2024

Virtual patients and digital patients/twins are two similar concepts gaining increasing attention in health care with goals to accelerate drug development and improve patients’ survival, but with their own limitations. Although methods have been proposed to generate virtual patient populations using mechanistic models, there are limited number of applications in immuno-oncology research. Furthermore, due to the stricter requirements of digital twins, they are often generated in a study-specific manner with models customized to particular clinical settings (e.g., treatment, cancer, and data types). Here, we discuss the challenges for virtual patient generation in immuno-oncology with our most recent experiences, initiatives to develop digital twins, and how research on these two concepts can inform each other.
Precise control of TiO2 overlayer on hematite nanorod arrays by ALD for the photoelectrochemical water splitting
Authors: Wang Jiao , Liccardo Letizia , Habibimarkani Heydar , Wierzbicka Ewa , Schultz Thorsten , Koch Norbert , Moretti Elisa , Pinna Nicola
Published: July 2024

The short lifetime of electron–hole pairs and high electron–hole recombination rate at surface states significantly limit the practical applications of hematite (α-Fe2O3) photoanodes in photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting.
The stray light induced redshift of absorption peaks of inorganic anions in the far ultraviolet region—an “artifact”
Authors: Ma Jun , Duan Ning , Xu Fuyuan , Xiao Ke
Published: July 2024

A peculiar redshift phenomenon was discovered and shown to be mainly due to unevenly distributed stray light.
Caged aminoluciferin probe for bioluminescent immunoproteasome activity analysis
Authors: Loy Cody A. , Trader Darci J.
Published: July 2024

The immunoproteasome (iCP) can be expressed under inflammatory conditions, such as exposure to interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), that alerts the cell to begin generating iCP preferentially over the standard proteasome (sCP).
Synthesis of phenanthrylboroles and formal nitrene insertion to access azaborapyrenes
Authors: Zacharias Harie , Begum Ayesha , Han Jianhua , Bartholome Tyler A. , Marder Todd B. , Martin Caleb D.
Published: July 2024

Phenanthrylboroles with 3,4-conjugation have been synthesized which react with azides to furnish B,N-pyrene analogues.
Crystal-to-crystal polymorphic phase transition in a cocrystal accompanied by expansion and surface wettability change
Authors: Saikia Plabon , Gupta Poonam , Nath Tridib R. , Nath Naba K.
Published: July 2024

Cocrystal of n-propylparaben and a bipyridine-based azine derivative exhibit heat-induced crystal-to-crystal polymorphic phase transition accompanied by expansion and cracking of the single crystals with distinct wettability properties.
Crystal structure of febuxostat marketed polymorph determined by electron diffraction and reinforced by X-ray crystallography
Authors: Ungur Doriana T. , Lanza Arianna , Stam Danny , Guguta Carmen , Iordache Coca , Fruth Victor , Santiso-Quinones Gustavo , Pop Mihaela M.
Published: July 2024

The crystal structure of the febuxostat marketed polymorph solved by ED and SC-XRD was important in understanding the compound's conformational polymorphism.
Structure and dynamics of the proton-selective histidine and the gating tryptophan in an inward rectifying hybrid influenza B and A virus M2 proton channel
Authors: Pankratova Yanina , McKay Matthew J. , Ma Chunlong , Tan Haozhou , Wang Jun , Hong Mei
Published: July 2024

Solid-state NMR spectra of a mutant influenza B M2 protein shine light on how charged residues near a tryptophan impact proton shuttling by a key histidine, thus regulating the proton conduction direction in this family of proton channels.
Modeling and tuning the electronic, mechanical and optical properties of a recently synthesized 2D polyaramid: a first principles study
Authors: Singh Mukesh , Kaur Surinder Pal , Chakraborty Brahmananda
Published: July 2024

We present a methodology for modeling 2D materials based on experimental data of a 2DPA-1 sheet synthesized via a bottom-up approach and study its properties (electronic, mechanical, and optical) with structural engineering.
Triazole-rich 3D metal–organic framework incorporated solid electrolytes for superior proton conductivity and durability in fuel cells
Authors: Ray Madhuparna , Sethy Sunil K. , Maiti Subrata Kumar , Ali Nasir , Bhosale Amit C. , Negi Yuvraj Singh , Chattopadhyay Sujay
Published: July 2024

MOF-assisted proton conduction mechanism in the membrane electrolyte and fuel cell performance.
Enhancement of Cu2ZnSn(S, Se)4 device performance using an IPA/MOE hybrid solvent system in ambient air
Authors: Zhou Zhineng , Hu Xinghuan , Song Qiaogang , Zhao Yonggang , Chen Yufei , Wu Lang , Zhang Ying , Su Xu , Wang Shurong
Published: July 2024

A mixed precursor solvent system consisting of isopropyl alcohol (IPA) and 2-methoxyethanol (MOE) was proposed. The effect of IPA/(MOE + IPA) at 10%, 20%, 30% and 40% on the device was studied, and the efficiency was increased from 9.19% to 10.63%.
Ultra-low lattice thermal conductivity realizing ultra-high performance Bi0.48Sb1.52Te3-based thermoelectric material and module
Authors: Li Hongtao , Chen Lidong , Guo Zhe , Wu Gang , Tan Xiaojian , Zhang Qiang , Cai Jianfeng , Sun Qianqian , Noudem Jacques G. , Sun Peng , Wu Jiehua , Liu Guo-Qiang , Jiang Jun
Published: July 2024

By adding “weakly-active” SGPT and Cu, differentiated electro-phonon scattering centers are induced to significantly suppress κph with μ less affected, leading to a ZTave of 1.32 and a η of 6.8%.
Monomeric and oligomeric amyloid-β cause distinct Alzheimer's disease pathophysiological characteristics in astrocytes in human glymphatics-on-chip models
Authors: Yslas Aria R. , Park Rena , Nishimura Nozomi , Lee Esak
Published: July 2024

A human glymphatics-on-chip model reveals that monomeric and oligomeric amyloid-β cause distinct Alzheimer's disease pathophysiological characteristics in astrocytes.
A perspective on contact-electro-catalysis based on frontier molecular orbitals
Authors: Wang Ziming , Dong Xuanli , Lv Fu-Jie , Tang Wei
Published: July 2024

The contribution from frontier molecular orbitals to contact-electro-catalysis is discussed.
Discovery of candidate biomarkers from plasma-derived extracellular vesicles of patients with cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma: an exploratory proteomic study
Authors: Zertuche-Martínez Cecilia , Velázquez-Enríquez Juan Manuel , González-García Karina , Santos-Álvarez Jovito Cesar , Romero-Tlalolini María de los Ángeles , Pina-Canseco Socorro , Pérez-Campos Mayoral Laura , Muriel Pablo , Villa-Treviño Saúl , Baltiérrez-Hoyos Rafael , Arellanes-Robledo Jaime , Vásquez-Garzón Verónica Rocío
Published: July 2024

Extracellular vesicle proteins are promising sources to identify potential biomarkers for the diagnosis of cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma.
Facet-controlled growth and soft-chemical exfoliation of two-dimensional titanium dioxide nanosheets
Authors: Harito Christian , Khalil Munawar , Nurdiwijayanto Leanddas , Septiani Ni Luh Wulan , Abrori Syauqi Abdurrahman , Putra Budi Riza , Zaidi Syed Z. J. , Taniguchi Takaaki , Yuliarto Brian , Walsh Frank C.
Published: July 2024

A timely review covering facet-controlled growth and soft-chemical exfoliation of two-dimensional titanium dioxide nanosheets.
Boosting the catalytic activity via an acid–base synergistic effect for direct conversion of CO2 and methanol to dimethyl carbonate
Authors: Huang Tian-Tian , Xu Yu-Ping , Bai Zheng-Lan , Wang Ming-Sheng , Liu Bin-Wen , Xu Zhong-Ning , Guo Guo-Cong
Published: July 2024

Boosting the catalytic activity via an acid–base synergistic effect for direct conversion of CO2 and methanol to dimethyl carbonate.
HF-addition to haloacetyl fluorides in superacidic media
Authors: Steiner Sebastian , Shafiq Zurwa M. , Nitzer Alexander , Hollenwäger Dirk , Kornath Andreas J.
Published: July 2024

The limit of isolating electron-deficient protonated haloacetyl fluorides from superacids is discussed supported by quantum chemical calculations.
Epichlorohydrin-based CuAAC dendrimers with a calix[4]arene core and polar hydroxyl/oxyethyl terminal groups: synthesis, aggregation and use in catalysis
Authors: Ocherednyuk Eugeny A. , Sultanova Elza D. , Makarov Egor G. , Fedoseeva Angelina A. , Khannanov Artur A. , Evtugyn Vladimir G. , Solovieva Svetlana E. , Burilov Vladimir A. , Antipin Igor S.
Published: July 2024

1st and 2nd generation amphiphilic dendrimers were obtained. Spherical palladium nanodendrites stabilized by amphiphilic dendrimers show excellent catalytic activities in coupling and reduction of aromatics in water.
Pair correlations of the easy magnetisation axes of superparamagnetic nanoparticles in a ferrofluid/ferrocomposite
Authors: Ivanov Alexey O. , Elfimova Ekaterina A.
Published: July 2024

The easy magnetisation axes of superparamagnetic nanoparticles align parallel to the direction of an applied magnetic field, and interparticle magnetic particle interactions strengthen the effect of easy-axis correlation.
Laser-patterned epoxy-based 3D microelectrode arrays for extracellular recording
Authors: Peng Hu , Kopic Inola , Potfode Shivani Ratnakar , Teshima Tetsuhiko F. , Boustani George Al , Hiendlmeier Lukas , Wang Chen , Hussain Mian Zahid , Özkale Berna , Fischer Roland A. , Wolfrum Bernhard
Published: July 2024

Epoxy-based 3D microelectrode arrays facilitate extracellular recordings in non-planar environments.
Highly spontaneous spin polarization engineering of single-atom artificial antioxidases towards efficient ROS elimination and tissue regeneration
Authors: Zhu Bihui , Zhao Zhenyang , Cao Sujiao , Sun Yimin , Wang Liyun , Huang Songya , Cheng Chong , Ma Lang , Qiu Li
Published: July 2024

The creation of atomic catalytic centers has emerged as a conducive path to design nanobiocatalysts to serve as artificial antioxidases that can mimic the natural antioxidases to scavenge reactive oxygen species for promoting tissue regeneration.
Odd–even effect in chiral side-chain cyanobiphenyl block copolymer assemblies prepared by polymerization-induced chiral self-assembly
Authors: Guo Jiaying , Tang Zeyu , Dai Hongbin , Liu Dongdong , He Zixiang , Cheng Xiaoxiao , Zhang Wei
Published: July 2024

In the system for the in situ synthesis of side-chain cyanobiphenyl block copolymer assemblies, varying the spacer units in CB monomers revealed two distinct odd–even effects.
Cation and anion co-partial substitution induced centrosymmetric to noncentrosymmetric structural transformation to construct nonlinear-optical rare-earth oxythiogermanates
Authors: Zhang Nan , Yang Mei , Yao Wen-Dong , Xu Wei , Zhou Wenfeng , Liu Wenlong , Guo Sheng-Ping
Published: July 2024

MxEu18−xGe9O5S31(R3) were obtained by cationic and anionic co-partial substitution of β-Eu2GeS4(P21/m), which induced centrosymmetric to noncentrosymmetric structural transformation and balanced second-order nonlinear optical activity.
A corannulene-based metallobox for the encapsulation of fullerenes
Authors: Ibáñez Susana , Mejuto Carmen , Cerón Katherin , Sanz Miguel Pablo J. , Peris Eduardo
Published: July 2024

A tetra-rhodium(i)-based metallobox built from a corannulene-di-NHC ligand is described. This metallorectangle has exceptional geometrical features for the encapsulation of fullerenes.
How the optimal configuration of electrodes on a hydrovoltaic device changes with water conditions
Authors: Kay George , Kumar Rahul , Liu Guojun , Stamplecoskie Kevin
Published: July 2024

Device architecture and the choice of electrodes and connections are critical in dictating hydrovoltaic device efficiencies, especially for different types of aqueous environments.
Expression, purification and application of a recombinant, membrane permeating version of the light chain of botulinum toxin B
Authors: Buzzatto Micaela Vanina , Benegas Guerrero Fabiana Cristina , Álvarez Pablo Ariel , Zizzias María Paz , Polo Luis Mariano , Tomes Claudia Nora
Published: July 2024

Botulinum neurotoxins (BoNTs) are valuable tools to unveil molecular mechanisms of exocytosis in neuronal and non-neuronal cells due to their peptidase activity on exocytic isoforms of SNARE proteins. They are produced by Clostridia as single-chain polypeptides that are proteolytically cleaved into light, catalytic domains covalently linked via disulfide bonds to heavy, targeting domains. This format of two subunits linked by disulfide bonds is required for the full neurotoxicity of BoNTs. We have generated a recombinant version of BoNT/B that consists of the light chain of the toxin fused to the protein transduction domain of the human immunodeficiency virus-1 (TAT peptide) and a hexahistidine tag. His6-TAT-BoNT/B-LC, expressed in Escherichia coli and purified by affinity chromatography, penetrated membranes and exhibited strong enzymatic activity, as evidenced by cleavage of the SNARE synaptobrevin from rat brain synaptosomes and human sperm cells. Proteolytic attack of synaptobrevin hindered exocytosis triggered by a calcium ionophore in the latter. The novel tool reported herein disrupts the function of a SNARE protein within minutes in cells that may or may not express the receptors for the BoNT/B heavy chain, and without the need for transient transfection or permeabilization.
Life cycle analysis of timber roof structures
Authors: Budajova Jana , Vilcekova Silvia , Harcarova Katarina
Published: July 2024

Construction industry is rapidly prospering. With numbers as high as they are in the construction industry, it is imperative to find alternative building materials and reduce waste. Proper combination and selection of materials helps to reduce the environmental burden on the surroundings. It is therefore appropriate to use local, natural, renewable, recyclable and low-emission materials in their production, which also helps to promote biodiversity and to restore and replace green spaces. In the fight against climate change, the construction industry is trying to reduce the emissions of buildings by means of life cycle assessment. The study assessed the life cycle of 55 wooden timber roofs in terms of their environmental impact. Based on the assessment of the timber roof compositions, it can be concluded that the best rating was achieved by the composition with structural construction timber, cellulose insulation, vented gap and aggregate backfill. When using wood fibre and cellulose insulation, a 65% reduction in global warming emissions is achieved.
The impact of shading by vegetation on the level of daylight in buildings: A case study
Authors: Dicka Zuzana , Dolnikova Erika , Katunsky Dusan
Published: July 2024

An optimal supply of daylight has a positive effect on the physical and psychological health of building users. In the working environment, daylight is a decisive aspect that significantly determines the overall work efficiency of employees. Several factors influence the internal comfort of the environment, but one of the main factors is visual comfort. Nevertheless, excessive sunlight, especially in summer, can cause discomfort. Nowadays, there is a broad spectrum of elimination options for excessive solar gain. This contribution is devoted to a less discussed elimination option, specifically the shading of buildings by surrounding vegetation and its importance in an urbanized environment. The study evaluates the administrative premises of the building for education. The illuminance measurement was performed in two offices with the same orientation. Based on the measured values, the effectiveness of the shading by vegetation element in the current environment and time is detected. The paper aims to investigate the impact of shading by vegetation on the internal visual comfort of employees, based on the concept of daylighting, and recommend appropriate measures to achieve an optimal daylight level.
Sheet pile walls as a part of the substructure of bridges. Practical application in Denmark
Authors: Jiponov Alexander , Georgiev Lazar
Published: July 2024

The usage of “sheet pile wall” is very common solution in Denmark due to the geographic situation of the country – low sea level, a significant part of the state border is sea, high groundwater level, poor geotechnical conditions. The “sheet pile wall” is used for strengthening of embankments, reclaim marine territories and as a supporting walls of railway lines and roads. As a consequence of this, a very common solution is to use the sheet pile walls as a part of the substructure of bridges – overpasses of railway lines and roads when the alignment is in excavation. From one side, the “sheet pile wall” are used as wing walls of the bridge and they support the road embankment. From another side, it is used as an abutment walls of the bridge. The part of the wall acting as a bridge support is design with some concrete “hammer beam”. The “hammer” in some cases is connected to the bridge deck by means of concrete hinges. Very often, “sheet pile wall” in the zone of the wing walls is combined with anchors in order to take increased section forces. Common variants in Denmark practice for connection of the bridge superstructure and sheet pile substructure are presented and analysed in the paper.
In-situ temperature monitoring of an internal insulated wall in a historic building
Authors: Hutkai Kristian , Katunsky Dusan , Balaz Richard
Published: July 2024

The subject of the contribution is the evaluation of in-situ monitoring of an internally insulated wall in a historical building in Levoča. The paper compares the development of surface temperatures, temperatures under the thermal insulation and temperatures in the masonry at a depth of 100 mm when using calcium silicate board and phenolic foam. The temperatures of the insulated walls are compared with the reference temperatures of the uninsulated wall. As part of the measurements, the parameters of the internal environment are also monitored. The aim of the contribution is to quantify the effect of internal insulation on the development of temperatures in the perimeter structure and its effect on the quality of the internal environment.
Pricing of water and sewerage charge rates of a selected water management company in the Czech Republic – a case study
Authors: Obloukova Aneta , Vitkova Eva
Published: July 2024

The article deals with water and sewerage charge rates issues in the Czech Republic over the last 4 years. This article is focused only on part of the research. Research is based on data collection. The data were obtained from the internet portal eAGRI.cz. The aim of the article is to describe the development of water and sewerage charge rates in the Czech Republic during the last 4 years (2018-2021) and to analyse the pricing of a selected company in the Czech Republic. First, analyse the average water and sewerage charge rates system in the Czech Republic in the monitored period, then define the average water and sewerage charge rates system for the individual regions in which the selected water management company operates. The goal of the research is the analysis of the individual components of the calculation formula of the selected water supply and sewerage operator in the Czech Republic, namely the joint-stock company Brněnské vodarny a kanalizace, a.s. The vertical analysis methodology is chosen for data evaluation. The analysed operator has the largest representation in other direct costs and material in the calculation formula.
The effect of wind on extensive lightweight vegetated roofs
Authors: Sukopova Dagmar , Mohapl Martin
Published: July 2024

Nowadays, Lightweight vegetated roofs are becoming increasingly popular due to their light weight, low maintenance and water consumption. Even though they are mostly extensive greenery (staghorn bushes, mosses, etc.) they can provide urban areas with a few benefits. In particular, they can make an important contribution to improving the urban microclimate and reducing the negative urban heat island effect. They also contribute to the conservation of biodiversity by providing alternative refuges for a range of animals. However, due to their light weight, these lightweight systems may not withstand adverse weather conditions well, especially at the beginning of their construction. Wind resistance can cause them to erode and wind erosion of the growing medium can occur, especially when the root network is not yet sufficiently anchored in the vegetation system. Roof sections may be rotated, displaced, or even overturned, especially in the outer parts of the roof. The effects of wind action can also be influenced by the slope of Lightweight roofs. Roofs with a pitch of less than 30° may be subject to stronger wind suction effects. Existing research shows that, for example, roofs with a pitch greater than 35° have better resistance to wind pressure. This paper discusses different variants of existing solutions to the given problem.
Pre-demolition audit as a tool for appropriate CDW management – a case study of a public building
Authors: Zaharieva Roumiana , Kancheva Yana , Evlogiev Daniel , Dinov Nikolay
Published: July 2024

The identification of hazardous construction and demolition waste (CDW) is crucial for the appropriate and safe waste management. The pre-demolition audit is not compulsory in all EU member states, so if the control is not strict the hazardous CDW might pollute the inert fraction and create risks for human health and environment. In Bulgaria, only some industrial sites are considered as a potential source of hazardous CDW. Classification of hazards can be difficult also because the European Waste Catalogue is not specific on the hazardous CDW (with some exceptions). For example, heavy metals are among the most dangerous substances but very often remain undiscovered or underestimated. A case study of an abandoned 100-year-old public building has been performed to illustrate the importance of the pre-demolition audit. A handheld XRF analyser is used to identify contaminated materials. Samples were taken from those materials for doing leaching tests. It was proven that there was a high content of heavy metals in different paints, on internal and external walls, and fenestration. In addition to the discussion of results, some measures to separate the hazardous coatings from the recyclable masonry and wooden waste are discussed to provide higher recovery rates for the CDW.
Three Stage Helical Gearbox: A Review of Materials - Scope and Challenges
Authors: Gandhi Ronak , Parikh Hiral
Published: July 2024

Many research articles on various helical gearbox stages are accessible in reputable journals. The majorities of earlier research, despite the fact that triple step helical gearboxes have several benefits, were confined on single step and double step helical gears. Lately, most researching experts who work in this field have started paying close attention to the importances of three stage helical gearboxes. Throughout this research, authors seek to carry out an exhaustive evaluation of the current triple step helical transmission articles for examining the most widely used survey designs, approaches, tools & techniques. The above investigation expansively analysed 315 journal articles on helical gearbox various stages and then used content analysis procedure with an inductive method of research for carrying out an organized review of 45 literatures on three step helix transmission box that appeared in different scientific publications over the preceding two decades. Apart from this; the study presents a broad assessment of currently utilized materials, several future possibilities and problems in employing different materials for various parts of gearbox and its casing. This important research finding indicates there’s an enormous potentiality towards dominating the area of research as well as continuing more chances for exploring growth of three stage helical gearboxes, which provides novel career opportunities for both experts and industrial professionals.