bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fast autofocus method for piezoelectric microscopy system for high interaction scenes
Authors: Hao Xiaopeng , Zhong Bowen , Liao Zhan , Sun Lining
Published: May 2023

Piezoelectric objective driver positioners are increasingly used in the field of microscopy. They have the advantages of high dynamic and fast response. This paper presents a fast autofocus algorithm for highly interactive microscope system. First, the Tenengrad gradient of the down‐sampled image is used to calculate the image sharpness, and Brent search method is adopted to quickly converge to the correct focal length. At the same time, the input shaping method is used to eliminate the displacement vibration of the piezoelectric objective lens driver and further accelerate the image acquisition speed. Experimental results show that the proposed scheme can improve the speed of the automatic focusing task of the piezoelectric objective driver and improve the real‐time focus of the automatic microscopic system.

Highlights

A high real‐time autofocus strategy.

A vibration control method suitable for a piezoelectric objective driver.
A comprehensive overview on the transmission, pathogenesis, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of SARS‐CoV‐2
Authors: Zhang Yiting , Clarke Setrice Patricia , Wu Huanwu , Li Wenli , Zhou Chang , Lin Kang , Wang Jiawen , Wang Jinzhi , Liang Ying , Wang Xin , Wang Linding
Published: May 2023

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS‐CoV) is a single positive‐strand RNA virus that is responsible for the current pandemic that the world has been facing since 2019. The primary route of transmission of SARS‐CoV‐2 is through respiratory tract transmission. However, other transmission routes such as fecal‐oral, vertical transmission, and aerosol‐eye also exist. In addition, it has been found that the pathogenesis of this virus involves the binding of the virus's S protein to its host cell surface receptor angiotensin‐converting enzyme 2, which results in the subsequent membrane fusion that is required for SARS‐CoV‐2 to replicate and complete its entire life. The clinical symptoms of patients infected with SARS‐CoV‐2 can range from asymptomatic to severe. The most common symptoms seen include fever, dry cough, and fatigue. Once these symptoms are observed, a nucleic acid test is done using reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction. This currently serves as the main confirmatory tool for COVID‐19. Despite the fact that no cure has been found for SARS‐CoV‐2, prevention methods such as vaccines, specific facial mask, and social distancing have proven to be quite effective. It is imperative to have a complete understanding of the transmission and pathogenesis of this virus. To effectively develop new drugs as well as diagnostic tools, more knowledge about this virus would be needed.
Safety assessment of surfactin‐producing Bacillus strains and their lipopeptides extracts in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Di Giácomo Ana L. , Azcurra Lorena N. , García Gisela R. , Dogi Cecilia A. , González Pereyra María L.
Published: May 2023

Beneficial Bacillus strains can be administered to livestock as probiotics to improve animal health. Cyclic lipopeptides produced by Bacillus such as surfactins may be responsible for some of the beneficial effects due to their anti‐inflammatory and immunomodulatory activity. The aim of the present study was to isolate and evaluate the biocompatibility of native Bacillus spp. strains and their surfactin‐like lipopeptides in vitro and in vivo to determine their potential to be used on animals. Biocompatibility of endospore suspensions (108 UFC/mL), and different dilutions (1:10; 1:50; 1:100; 1:500, and 1:1000) of Bacillus lipopeptide extracts containing surfactin was tested on Caco‐2 cells by microculture tetrazolium‐based colorimetric assay. Genotoxicity was tested on BALB/c mice (n = 6) administered 0.2 mL of endospore suspensions by the bone marrow erythrocyte micronuclei assay. All the isolates tested produced between 26.96 and 239.97 µg mL−1 of surfactin. The lipopeptide extract (LPE) from isolate MFF1.11 demonstrated significant cytotoxicity in vitro. In contrast, LPE from MFF 2.2; MFF 2.7, TL1.11, TL 2.5, and TC12 had no cytotoxic effect (V% > 70%) on Caco‐2 cells, not affecting cell viability signifficantly in most treatments. Similarly, none of the endospore suspensions affected cell viability (V% > 80%). Likewise, endospores did not cause genotoxicity on BALB/c mice. This study was elementary as a first step for a new line of research, since it allowed us to choose the safest isolates to keep working on the search of new potentially probiotic strains destined to production animals to improve their performance and health.
Climatic control on the retreat of the Laurentide Ice Sheet margin in easternmost Québec–Labrador (Canada) revealed by cosmogenic nuclide exposure dating
Authors: Couette Pierre‐Olivier , Ghienne Jean‐François , Lajeunesse Patrick , Van der Woerd Jérôme
Published: May 2023

The Laurentide Ice Sheet (LIS) was the largest ice sheet in the Northern Hemisphere during the last glacial cycle. The effects of its demise on global climate and sea‐level changes during the subsequent deglaciation are unequivocal. Understanding the interplay between ice sheets and long‐term or short‐term (e.g. abrupt) climatic events is therefore crucial for predicting future rates of ice sheet melting and their potential contribution to sea‐level changes. Here, we present 37 new 10Be surface exposure ages from easternmost Québec–Labrador that allow us to identify close ties between regional deglaciation history and climate. These results reveal that the LIS was disconnected from the Newfoundland Ice Cap by ~14.1 ka. Samples collected from moraine boulders indicate that this event was followed by five major stillstands and/or readvance stages of the LIS margin. Integrating our new moraine ages with those of earlier studies allows us to depict a temporal framework including events at ~12.9, ~11.5, ~10.4, ~9.3 and ~8.4–8.2 ka. These moraine ages highlight a strong sensitivity of the LIS to temperature changes in the Northern Hemisphere, as the documented continental ice margin stabilizations coincide with abrupt cooling events recorded in Greenland ice cores. These observations support the idea of a negative feedback mechanism induced by meltwater forcings into the North Atlantic Ocean which, in turn, provoked repeated cold reversals during the Younger Dryas and early Holocene.
Ultrafine Gold Nanoparticles Anchored on Pyridine‐Inner‐Functionalized Hollow Porous Organic Nanospheres for Highly Efficient Heterogeneous Catalysis
Authors: Yang Han , Gao Shengguang , Liu Jiakang , Wu Wenjin , Luo Yiqian , Mo Guanhuan , Huang Kun
Published: May 2023

The development of metal nanoparticles (MNPs) loaded on porous materials with high efficiency and stability is significant importance for heterogeneous catalysis. Herein, ultrafine Au NPs are prepared and anchored on hollow porous organic nanospheres (Au@HPONs) with polylactide‐b‐poly(4‐vinylpyridine)‐b‐polystyrene (PLA‐b‐P4VP‐b‐PS) triblock copolymers as precursors and pyridine as the coordination group. In this strategy, pyridine functional groups can coordinate with the Au NPs and uniformly disperse them in the carrier. Due to its hollow porous structure, high specific surface area, and physicochemical stability, the obtained Au@HPONs nanocomposite shows excellent catalytic performance and cycling ability for the oxidation of benzyl alcohol and the reduction of 4‐nitrophenol.
Encapsulation of Fragrances in Micro‐ and Nano‐Capsules, Polymeric Micelles, and Polymersomes
Authors: Russell Sam , Bruns Nico
Published: May 2023

Fragrances are ubiquitously and extensively used in everyday life and several industrial applications, including perfumes, textiles, laundry formulations, hygiene household products, and food products. However, the intrinsic volatility of these small organic molecules leaves them particularly susceptible to fast depletion from a product or from the surface they have been applied to. Encapsulation is a very effective method to limit the loss of fragrance during their use and to sustain their release. This review gives an overview of the different materials and techniques used for the encapsulation of fragrances, scents, and aromas, as well as the methods used to characterize the resulting encapsulation systems, with a particular focus on cyclodextrins, polymer microcapsules, inorganic microcapsules, block copolymer micelles, and polymersomes for fragrance encapsulation, sustained release, and controlled release.
On dynamics of double‐diffusive magneto‐convection in a non‐Newtonian fluid layer
Authors: Fan Yanlong , Li Liang , Pan Zhigang , Wang Quan
Published: May 2023

This article concerns the dynamic transitions of a non‐Newtonian horizontal fluid layer with thermal and solute diffusion and in the presence of vertical magnetic field. First, a linear stability analysis is performed by deriving the principle of exchange of stability condition, which shows the system loses stability when the thermal Rayleigh number exceeds a threshold. Second, we consider the transition induced by real eigenvalues and complex eigenvalues, respectively, and two nonlinear transition theorems along with several transition numbers determining the transition types are obtained via the method of center manifold reduction. Finally, rigorous numerical computations are performed to offer examples of possible transition types. Our results show that both continuous and jump transitions can occur for certain parameters when the diffusivities from big to small are thermal, solute concentration and magnetic diffusion, but only continuous transition induced by real eigenvalues is observed when the diffusivities from big to small is the opposite of the previous case.
(+)‐Catechin Attenuates Multiple Atherosclerosis‐Associated Processes In Vitro, Modulates Disease‐Associated Risk Factors in C57BL/6J Mice and Reduces Atherogenesis in LDL Receptor Deficient Mice by Inhibiting Inflammation and Increasing Markers of Plaque Stability
Authors: Chan Yee‐Hung , Moss Joe W. E. , Williams Jessica O. , Ferekidis Nele , Alshehri Nouf , Hughes Timothy R. , Menendez‐Gonzalez Juan B. , Plummer Sue F. , Michael Daryn R. , Rodrigues Neil P. , Ramji Dipak P.
Published: May 2023

Scope

A prospective study of 34492 participants shows an inverse association between (+)‐catechin intake and coronary heart disease. The effects of (+)‐catechin on atherosclerosis and associated risk factors are poorly understood and are investigated.

Methods and results

(+)‐Catechin attenuates reactive oxygen species production in human macrophages, endothelial cells and vascular smooth muscle cells, chemokine‐driven monocytic migration, and proliferation of human macrophages and their expression of several pro‐atherogenic genes. (+)‐Catechin also improves oxidized LDL‐mediated mitochondrial membrane depolarization in endothelial cells and attenuates growth factor‐induced smooth muscle cell migration. In C57BL/6J mice fed high fat diet (HFD) for 3 weeks, (+)‐catechin attenuates plasma levels of triacylglycerol and interleukin (IL)‐1β and IL‐2, produces anti‐atherogenic changes in liver gene expression, and reduces levels of white blood cells, myeloid‐derived suppressor cells, Lin− Sca+ c‐Kit+ cells, and common lymphoid progenitor cells within the bone marrow. In LDL receptor deficient mice fed HFD for 12 weeks, (+)‐catechin attenuates atherosclerotic plaque burden and inflammation with reduced macrophage content and increased markers of plaque stability; smooth muscle cell and collagen content.

Conclusion

This study provides novel, detailed insights into the cardio‐protective actions of (+)‐catechin together with underlying molecular mechanisms and supports further assessments of its beneficial effects in human trials.
Isolation of amide proton transfer effect and relayed nuclear Overhauser enhancement effect at ‐3.5ppm using CEST with double saturation powers
Authors: Zhao Yu , Sun Casey , Zu Zhongliang
Published: May 2023

Purpose

Quantifications of amide proton transfer (APT) and nuclear Overhauser enhancement (rNOE(−3.5)) mediated saturation transfer with high specificity are challenging because their signals measured in a Z‐spectrum are overlapped with confounding signals from direct water saturation (DS), semi‐solid magnetization transfer (MT), and CEST of fast‐exchange pools. In this study, based on two canonical CEST acquisitions with double saturation powers (DSP), a new data‐postprocessing method is proposed to specifically quantify the effects of APT and rNOE.

Methods

For CEST imaging with relatively low saturation powers (), both the fast‐exchange CEST effect and the semi‐solid MT effect roughly depend on , whereas the slow‐exchange APT/rNOE(−3.5) effect do not, which is exploited to isolate a part of the APT and rNOE effects from the confounding signals in this study. After a mathematical derivation for the establishment of the proposed method, numerical simulations based on Bloch equations are then performed to demonstrate its specificity to detections of the APT and rNOE effects. Finally, an in vivo validation of the proposed method is conducted using an animal tumor model at a 4.7 T MRI scanner.

Results

The simulations show that DSP‐CEST can quantify the effects of APT and rNOE and substantially eliminate the confounding signals. The in vivo experiments demonstrate that the proposed DSP‐CEST method is feasible for the imaging of tumors.

Conclusion

The data‐postprocessing method proposed in this study can quantify the APT and rNOE effects with considerably increased specificities and a reduced cost of imaging time.
Predicting persisting disability in musculoskeletal pain patients with the STarT MSK screening tool: Results from a prospective cohort study
Authors: Nativ Noam , Pincus Tamar , Hill Jonathan , Ben Ami Noa
Published: May 2023

Background

The STarT MSK screening tool aims to categorise musculoskeletal patients into three risk groups for treatment stratification. The tool has been translated and validated into Hebrew. However, its ability to predict persistent disability in patients has yet to be evaluated.

Objective

The primary aim of this study was to assess the ability of the Hebrew version of the STarT MSK tool to predict persistent disability in patients experiencing musculoskeletal pain.

Methods

A prospective observational cohort study was conducted, recruiting 135 patients with musculoskeletal pain in five common areas: back, neck, shoulder, knee, or multisite pain over the age of 21. At the first consultation, all patients completed demographic information, the Focus On Therapeutic Outcomes (FOTO) questionnaire (function, pain, and fear avoidance score), and the STarT MSK questionnaire. The patients completed the FOTO questionnaire again at the end of the physiotherapy treatments.

Results

25 patients (18.5%) were classified into the low‐risk group, 68 patients (50.3%) into the medium‐risk group, and 42 (31.1%) into the high‐risk group. The baseline STarT MSK tool score demonstrated an excellent ability to identify patients at high risk of developing persistent disability (AUC = 0.795, 95% CI 0.716–0.873).

Conclusions

The Hebrew version of the STarT MSK tool can differentiate between three chronic risk groups and has high predictive validity for chronicity. This may provide a tool to assist clinicians in identifying patients who require more intensive care, and thus, potentially prevent the transition to chronic disabling pain.
Pregnancy in MuSK‐positive myasthenia gravis: A single‐center case series
Authors: Harada Yohei , Bettin Margaret , Juel Vern C. , Hobson‐Webb Lisa D. , Raja Shruti M. , Sanders Donald B. , Massey Janice M.
Published: May 2023

Introduction/Aims

Myasthenia gravis (MG) with muscle‐specific tyrosine kinase (MuSK) antibodies (MMG) is predominantly seen in women of childbearing age. Our objective in this study was to describe the course of MMG during pregnancy and within 6 months postpartum, and to document any effect on fetal health.

Methods

A retrospective review was performed of medical records of patients with MMG seen in the Duke Myasthenia Gravis Clinic from 2003 to 2022. MMG patients with onset of MMG symptoms before or during pregnancy as well as within 6 months postpartum were reviewed.

Results

A total of 14 pregnancies in 10 patients were included in our study cohort. Initial MG symptoms developed during pregnancy or within 6 months postpartum in six patients. Four patients had two pregnancies, three of whom developed MG during their first pregnancy. In the patients diagnosed before pregnancy, MG symptoms increased in five of eight patients during pregnancy or postpartum. Four patients required rescue therapy with plasma exchange or intravenous immunoglobulin during pregnancy or postpartum. One patient had a cesarean section after prolonged labor due to failure of progression. There were no other complications of pregnancy or delivery, and all infants were healthy at delivery.

Discussion

As in non‐MuSK MG, women with MMG may also have worsening or may develop initial MG symptoms during pregnancy or within 6 months postpartum. More aggressive medical therapy may be required for pregnant patients with MMG. Further study is needed to identify the mechanism and risk of worsening of MMG during pregnancy or postpartum.
A conforming auxiliary space preconditioner for the mass conserving stress‐yielding method
Authors: Kogler Lukas , Lederer Philip L. , Schöberl Joachim
Published: May 2023

We are studying the efficient solution of the system of linear equations stemming from the mass conserving stress‐yielding (MCS) discretization of the Stokes equations. We perform static condensation to arrive at a system for the pressure and velocity unknowns. An auxiliary space preconditioner for the positive definite velocity block makes use of efficient and scalable solvers for conforming Finite Element spaces of low order and is analyzed with emphasis placed on robustness in the polynomial degree of the discretization. Numerical experiments demonstrate the potential of this approach and the efficiency of the implementation.
Unique and overlapping functions for the transcriptional regulators KANADI1 and ULTRAPETALA1 in Arabidopsis gynoecium and stamen gene regulation
Authors: Hagelthorn Lynne , Monfared Mona M. , Talo Anthony , Harmon Frank G. , Fletcher Jennifer C.
Published: May 2023

Plants generate their reproductive organs, the stamens and the carpels, de novo within the flowers that form when the plant reaches maturity. The carpels comprise the female reproductive organ, the gynoecium, a complex organ that develops along several axes of polarity and is crucial for plant reproduction, fruit formation, and seed dispersal. The epigenetic trithorax group (trxG) protein ULTRAPETALA1 (ULT1) and the GARP domain transcription factor KANADI1 (KAN1) act cooperatively to regulate Arabidopsis thaliana gynoecium patterning along the apical–basal polarity axis; however, the molecular pathways through which this patterning activity is achieved remain to be explored. In this study, we used transcriptomics to identify genome‐wide ULT1 and KAN1 target genes during reproductive development. We discovered 278 genes in developing flowers that are regulated by ULT1, KAN1, or both factors together. Genes involved in developmental and reproductive processes are overrepresented among ULT1 and/or KAN1 target genes, along with genes involved in biotic or abiotic stress responses. Consistent with their function in regulating gynoecium patterning, a number of the downstream target genes are expressed in the developing gynoecium, including a unique subset restricted to the stigmatic tissue. Further, we also uncovered a number of KAN1‐ and ULT1‐induced genes that are transcribed predominantly or exclusively in developing stamens. These findings reveal a potential cooperative role for ULT1 and KAN1 in male as well as female reproductive development that can be investigated with future genetic and molecular experiments.
Rigid versus soft catheter for less invasive surfactant administration: A crossover randomized controlled manikin trial
Authors: Cavallin Francesco , Margarita Teresa , Bua Benedetta , Beltrame Francesca , Pasta Elisa , Villani Paolo Ernesto , Trevisanuto Daniele
Published: May 2023

Background

We compared surfactant administration with a rigid versus soft catheter in a manikin simulating an extremely preterm infant.

Methods

Randomized controlled crossover (AB/BA) trial. Fifty tertiary hospital consultants and pediatric residents. The primary outcome was the time of device positioning. The secondary outcomes were the success of the first attempt, the number of attempts, and the participant's opinion.

Results

Median time of device positioning was 19 s (interquartile range [IQR]: 15−25) with rigid catheter and 40 s (IQR: 28−66) with soft catheter (p < 0.0001). Success at first attempt was 92% with rigid catheter and 74% with soft catheter (p = 0.01). Median number of attempts was 1 (IQR: 1−1) with rigid catheter and 1 (IQR: 1−2) with soft catheter (p = 0.009). Participants found the rigid catheter easier to use (p < 0.0001).

Conclusions

In a preterm manikin model, using a rigid catheter for less invasive surfactant administration was quicker and easier to use than a soft catheter.
Cell‐free DNA integrity correlates with lymph node metastasis and predicts short‐term postoperative recurrence in patients with proximal gastric carcinoma after curative gastrectomy
Authors: Zhang Xu , Hu Qing , Chen Liang , Shao Peng , Wang Jian
Published: May 2023

The predictive value of cell‐free DNA (cfDNA) integrity for lymph node metastasis and short‐term postoperative recurrence in patients with proximal gastric carcinoma (PGC) after curative gastrectomy remains unclear. From August 2019 to March 2021, the cfDNA integrity was assessed in 107 patients with proximal gastric carcinoma who underwent total gastrectomy (TG). The correlation between cfDNA integrity and lymph node metastasis was inspected, and the optimal cutoff value of cfDNA integrity for lymph node metastasis was determined. Meanwhile, the cfDNA integrity was identically detected in 91 proximal gastric cancer patients receiving proximal gastrectomy (PG), as well as 41 heathy individuals. The diagnostic value of cfDNA integrity for short‐term postoperative recurrence was assessed in both cohorts. The cfDNA integrity in healthy control was significantly higher than that in TG (p < .001) and PG (p = .0003) cohorts, but not statistically different between the latter two (p = .540). In the TG cohort, the cfDNA integrity was closely correlated to lymph node metastasis. Using the cutoff value of 0.873, the patients were stratified into the cfDNA integrity high and low groups; low cfDNA integrity was associated with a shorter disease free survival (DFS) both in the TG (p = .011) and PG (p = .041) cohorts. Moreover, cfDNA integrity was assessed to possess the most predictive value for postoperative recurrence by ROC curves in both cohorts. Therefore, the cfNDA integrity may correlate with lymph node metastasis in patients with PGC, and predict short‐term recurrence after curative gastrectomy.
Network governance as an alternative policy response to managing infectious disease outbreaks: Lessons from Uganda's response to the COVID‐19 crisis
Authors: Mwije Solomon
Published: May 2023

Network governance is commended as one of the appropriate approaches to manage infectious disease crises, but knowledge of its implementation is still limited especially in nondemocratic contexts. This study adopted a qualitative case study design using secondary evidence to review how Uganda used network governance to manage COVID‐19 crisis. Uganda used the Whole of Government and Whole of Society approaches to form core‐periphery networks of government and nongovernment actors. It institutionalized task forces and subcommittees at national, district, and community levels to coordinate the COVID‐19 response. Networks of actors contributed to the response through case surveillance and management, enforcement of measures, information sharing, social protection and community engagement, resource mobilization, supply chain management, and vaccination. However, the experiences varied across the country with challenges including consensus problems, mistrust, corruption, poor accountability, abuse of rights, and limited capacities especially in local governments. The study revealed that the effectiveness in handling infectious disease crisis might not greatly depend on the country's democracy but rather the government's ability to recognize the threats and adopt collaborative mechanisms to manage the crisis. Contextual understanding of such experiences may provide lessons that future governments may consider when, not if, crises of such magnitude confront them.
Fatty acid supplementation into warming solutions improves pregnancy outcomes after single vitrified‐warmed cleavage stage embryo transfers
Authors: Amagai Ayumi , Ezoe Kenji , Miki Tetsuya , Shimazaki Kiyoe , Okimura Tadashi , Kato Keiichi
Published: May 2023

Purpose

This study aimed to examine the embryonic development of human 4‐cell stage embryos after warming with fatty acids (FAs) and to assess the pregnancy outcomes after single vitrified‐warmed cleavage stage embryo transfers (SVCTs).

Methods

Experimental study: A total of 217 discarded, vitrified human 4‐cell stage embryos donated for research by consenting couples were used. The embryos were warmed using the fatty acid (FA)‐supplemented solutions (FA group) or nonsupplemented solutions (control group). The developmental rate, morphokinetics, and outgrowth competence were analyzed. Clinical study: The treatment records of women undergoing SVCT in natural cycles between April and September 2022 were retrospectively analyzed (April–June 2022, control group; July–September 2022, FA group).

Results

Experimental study: The rate of morphologically good blastocysts was significantly higher in the FA group than in the control group (p = 0.0302). The morphokinetics during cleavage, morula, and blastocyst stages were comparable between the groups. The outgrowth was significantly increased in the FA group (p = 0.0438). Clinical study: The rates of implantation, clinical pregnancy, and ongoing pregnancy after SVCTs were significantly increased in the FA group (p = 0.0223–0.0281).

Conclusions

Fatty acid‐supplemented warming solutions effectively improve embryo development to the blastocyst stage and pregnancy outcomes after SVCTs.
A finite element modeling‐based approach to predict vibrations transmitted through different body segments of the operator within the workspace of a small tractor
Authors: Pradhan Nrusingh Charan , Sahoo Pramod Kumar , Kushwaha Dilip Kumar , Makwana Yash , Mani Indra , Kumar Mohit , T N Aruna , V Soumya Krishnan
Published: May 2023

Agricultural tractor drivers are subjected to high levels of whole‐body vibrations and hand arm vibrations during most part of the farm activities due to unevenness of field surface, uneasy posture, improper workplace design, moving parts of the tractor, and other unavoidable circumstances. The comfort level of the operator inside a dynamic tractor is dependent on the level of vibration generated inside the different human body segments. In the present study, a finite element modeling was proposed to predict vertical vibrations (Z‐axis) and frequencies at the different body segments of the seated small tractor operator. The forces required for different controls of the tractor were measured to be used as input parameters in the finite element modeling. The maximum mean forces of the brake (172.8 N) and clutch (153.2 N) were used as the input parameters for the simulation study. The simulated results were validated with the field measured values of vertical accelerations at selected body segments of the operator. The simulation could successfully predict vertical vibrations at selected points of interest (i.e., foot, leg, thigh, lower arm, upper arm, back, and head) except the chest of the body, as the buttock of the operator model was fixed (degree of freedom is equal to zero) in the simulation. The obtained results were compared with the international standards ISO 2631‐1 (1985/1997) and ISO 5349‐1 (2001) to assess the vibration characteristics at the different body segments of the operator. The foot, leg, lower arm, and upper arm of the operator were subjected to vertical vibration frequencies from 10 to 200 Hz. Most of the resonance of vertical accelerations occurred in one‐third octave bands of 20–80 Hz frequencies. The thigh, chest, back, and head of the operator were exposed to vibration frequencies below 40 Hz during field operation. At these parts of the body, the vertical acceleration resonated at lower frequencies, between 2 and 8 Hz.
Near‐Infrared Light‐Mediated Cyclodextrin Metal–Organic Frameworks for Synergistic Antibacterial and Anti‐Biofilm Therapies
Authors: He Yaping , Wang Xuanzong , Zhang Chi , Sun Junkui , Xu Jianzhong , Li Daifeng
Published: May 2023

Bacterial infections pose a significant threat to global public health; therefore, the development of novel therapeutics is urgently needed. Herein, a controllable antibacterial nanoplatform utilizing cyclodextrin metal–organic frameworks (CD‐MOFs) as a template to synthesize ultrafine silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) in their porous structure is constructed. Subsequently, polydopamine (PDA) is encapsulated on the CD‐MOFs’ surface via dopamine polymerization to enhance the water stability and enable hyperthermia capacity. The resulting Ag@MOF@PDA generates localized hyperthermia and gradually releases Ag+ to achieve long‐term photothermal‐chemical bactericidal capability. The release rate of Ag+ can be accelerated by NIR‐mediated heating in a controllable manner, quickly reaching the effective concentration and reducing the frequency of medication to avoid potential toxicity. In vitro experiments demonstrate that the combined antibacterial strategy can not only effectively kill both gram‐negative and gram‐positive bacteria, but also directly eradicate mature biofilms. In vivo results confirm that both bacterial‐ and biofilm‐infected wounds treated with a combination of Ag@MOF@PDA and laser exhibit satisfactory recovery with minimal toxicity, displaying a superior therapeutic effect compared to other groups. Together, the results warrant that the Ag@MOF@PDA realizes synergistic antibacterial capacity and controllable release of Ag+ to combat bacterial and biofilm infections, providing a potential antibiotic‐free alternative in the “post‐antibiotic era.”
Room‐Temperature Synthesis of a COFs Membrane Via LBL Self‐Assembly Strategy for Energy Harvesting
Authors: Zhang Caili , Xiao Tianliang , He Jianwei , Lu Bingxin , Li Xuejiang , Zhai Jin , Fan Xia
Published: May 2023

The covalent organic frameworks (COFs) membrane with ordered and confined one‐dimensional channel has been considered as a promising material to harvest the salinity gradient energy from the seawater and river water. However, the application of the COFs in the field of energy conversion still faces the challenges in membrane preparation. Herein, energy harvesting is achieved by taking advantage of a COFs membrane where TpDB‐HPAN is synthesized via layer‐by‐layer self‐assembly strategy at room temperature. The carboxy‐rich TpDB COFs can be expediently assembled onto the substrate with an environmental‐friendly method. The increased open‐circuit voltage (Voc) endows TpDB‐HPAN membrane with a remarkable energy harvesting performance. More importantly, the application perspective is also illuminated by the cascade system. With the advantages of green synthesis, the TpDB‐HPAN membrane can be considered as a low‐cost and promising candidate for energy conversion.
Understanding the Insight Mechanism of Chemical‐Mechanical Degradation of Layered Co‐Free Ni‐Rich Cathode Materials: A Review
Authors: Li Hang , Wang Li , Song Youzhi , Wu Yingqiang , Zhang Hao , Du Aimin , He Xiangming
Published: May 2023

Layered Cobalt (Co)‐free Nickel (Ni)‐rich cathode materials have attracted much attention due to their high energy density and low cost. Still, their further development is hampered by material instability caused by the chemical/mechanical degradation of the material. Although there are numerous doping and modification approaches to improve the stability of layered cathode materials, these approaches are still in the laboratory stage and require further research before commercial application. To fully exploit the potential of layered cathode materials, a more comprehensive theoretical understanding of the underlying issues is necessary, along with active exploration of previously unrevealed mechanisms. This paper presents the phase transition mechanism of Co‐free Ni‐rich cathode materials, the existing problems, and the state‐of‐the‐art characterization tools employed to study the phase transition. The causes of crystal structure degradation, interfacial instability, and mechanical degradation are elaborated, from the material's crystal structure to its phase transition and atomic orbital splitting. By organizing and summarizing these mechanisms, this paper aims to establish connections among common research problems and to identify future research priorities, thereby facilitating the rapid development of Co‐free Ni‐rich materials.
Modulating the Function of GeAs/ReS2 van der Waals Heterojunction with its Potential Application for Short‐Wave Infrared and Polarization‐Sensitive Photodetection
Authors: Zhang Jianbin , Duan Linfan , Zhou Nan , Zhang Lihui , Shang Conghui , Xu Hua , Yang Rusen , Wang Xiao , Li Xiaobo
Published: May 2023

Van der Waals heterojunction (vdWs) of 2D materials with integrated or extended superior characteristics, opening up new opportunities in functional electronic and optoelectric device applications. Exploring methods to achieve multifunctional vdWs heterojunction devices is one of the most promising prospects in this area. Herein, a diverse function of forward rectifying diode, Zener tunneling diode, and backward rectifying diodes are realized in GeAs/ReS2 heterojunction by modulating the doping level of GeAs. The tunneling diode presents an interesting trend forward negative differential resistance (NDR) behavior which may facilitate the application of multi‐value logic. More importantly, the GeAs/ReS2 forward rectifying diode exhibits highly sensitive photodetection in the wide‐spectrum range up to 1550 nm corresponding to a short‐wave infrared (SWIR) region. In addition, as two strong anisotropic 2D materials of GeAs and ReS2, the heterojunction exhibits strong polarization‐sensitive photodetection behavior with a dichroic photocurrent ratio of 1.7. This work provides an effective strategy to achieve multifunctional 2D vdW heterojunction devices and develops more possibilities to broaden their functionalities and applications.
Step‐by‐Step Guide for Synthesis and Delamination of Ti3C2Tx MXene
Authors: Thakur Anupma , Chandran B.S. Nithin , Davidson Karis , Bedford Annabelle , Fang Hui , Im Yooran , Kanduri Vaishnavi , Wyatt Brian C. , Nemani Srinivasa Kartik , Poliukhova Valeriia , Kumar Ravi , Fakhraai Zahra , Anasori Babak
Published: May 2023

To advance the MXene field, it is crucial to optimize each step of the synthesis process and create a detailed, systematic guide for synthesizing high‐quality MXene that can be consistently reproduced. In this study, a detailed guide is provided for an optimized synthesis of titanium carbide (Ti3C2Tx) MXene using a mixture of hydrofluoric and hydrochloric acids for the selective etching of the stoichimetric‐Ti3AlC2 MAX phase and delamination of the etched multilayered Ti3C2Tx MXene using lithium chloride at 65 °C for 1 h with argon bubbling. The effect of different synthesis variables is investigated, including the stoichiometry of the mixed powders to synthesize Ti3AlC2, pre‐etch impurity removal conditions, selective etching, storage, and drying of MXene multilayer powder, and the subsequent delamination conditions. The synthesis yield and the MXene film electrical conductivity are used as the two parameters to evaluate the MXene quality. Also the MXenes are characterized with scanning electron microscopy, x‐ray diffraction, atomic force microscopy, and ellipsometry. The Ti3C2Tx film made via the optimized method shows electrical conductivity as high as ≈21,000 S/cm with a synthesis yield of up to 38 %. A detailed protocol is also provided for the Ti3C2Tx MXene synthesis as the supporting information for this study.
Einleitung
Authors: Gonon Anna
Published: May 2023

Nach einer liberalen Konzeption beschränkt sich die Arbeitsbeziehung auf den Tausch von Lohn gegen Arbeitsleistung. Wie Robert Castel im einleitenden Zitat am Typus des „patronalen“ Arbeitgebers aus dem 19. Jahrhundert darlegt, kann eine Unterstützung von Beschäftigten in Notsituationen jedoch durchaus im Interesse eines Arbeitgebers liegen. Der „patronale Arbeitgeber“ bot seinen Beschäftigten diverse Sozialleistungen, darunter „Dienste“, die der „Wiederherstellung ihrer Gesundheit“ sowie der „Unterstützung in Notsituationen“ dienten.
Betriebliche Arbeitsintegration psychisch Erkrankter
Authors: Gonon Anna
Published: May 2023

Mit der Ausweitung des sozialpolitischen Paradigmas der „Aktvierung“ auf die Behindertenpolitik sind auch Menschen mit gesundheitlichen Einschränkungen vermehrt dazu aufgefordert, ihren Lebensunterhalt durch die Partizipation am Arbeitsmarkt unabhängig von finanziellen sozialstaatlichen Unterstützungsleistungen zu bestreiten. Zumindest hypothetisch wird damit den Unternehmen eine stärkere Verantwortung zugewiesen, die Arbeitsorganisation, Arbeitsplätze und -bedingungen so zu gestalten, dass Arbeitsstellen auch für Menschen mit psychisch bedingten Beeinträchtigungen der Gesundheit zugänglich sind. Verbindliche Auflagen für Unternehmen sind in dieser Hinsicht jedoch schwach bzw. in der Schweiz fast inexistent.
Die Soziologie der Konventionen
Authors: Gonon Anna
Published: May 2023

Im Feld der Wiedereingliederung und Weiterbeschäftigung gesundheitlich eingeschränkter Arbeitskräfte gibt es bislang keine etablierten soziologischen Theorieperspektiven (vgl. auch Hanisch und Solvang 2019). Um den Forschungsgegenstand theoretisch zu schärfen, greife ich in der vorliegenden Studie auf die Soziologie der Konventionen zurück. Wie ich im Folgenden argumentiere, stellt diese Theorie für die Fragestellung der Studie aus mehreren Gründen eine gewinnbringende theoretische Perspektive dar.
Forschungsdesign, Methoden und Daten
Authors: Gonon Anna
Published: May 2023

Als theoretische Perspektive impliziert die Soziologie der Konventionen einen methodologischen Standpunkt (vgl. Abschn. 3.2), der Annahmen über die „ontologische Beschaffenheit der sozialen Welt“ beinhaltet (Diaz-Bone 2018, S. 368). Die theoretische Konstruktion des Forschungsgegenstands, d. h. die Annahmen bezüglich der Frage „was es gibt“, sind relevant für das empirische Vorgehen ihrer Erforschung, also wie sich das, was es gibt, beobachten lässt (vgl. ebenda). Die konventionentheoretische Perspektive steht für einen methodischen Holismus.
Krankheit und die Fairness von Personalmaßnahmen
Authors: Gonon Anna
Published: May 2023

Krankheiten von Beschäftigten können im Betrieb zunächst als verminderte Arbeitsleistung wahrgenommen oder mit Konflikten in Zusammenhang gebracht werden. Gerade Vorgesetzte nehmen die Symptome psychischer Krankheiten am Anfang oft als Verhaltens- oder Leistungsprobleme wahr (Baer et al. 2011). Dies kann dazu führen, dass sie zunächst auf die disziplinierenden Instrumente des Personalmanagements zurückgreifen, wie eine schriftliche Ermahnung oder ein formelles Verfahren zur Leistungsverbesserung.
Use of Camera and AI for Mapping Monitoring for Architecture
Authors: Falcone Marika , Dell’Annunziata Guido Napolitano
Published: May 2023

This research focuses on studying low-cost techniques for rapid mapping, utilizing sensors equipped on smartphones. These devices were installed on a radio-controlled vehicle to conduct an experimental campaign aimed at evaluating the performance of LiDAR sensor. By collecting data, machine learning algorithms were employed for the detection of architectural defects.
Friction welding of tungsten composite core with AA5754 ballistic cup
Authors: Goroch Olgierd , Gulbinowicz Zbigniew , Bednarczyk Ewa
Published: May 2023

This paper is a study of mechanical properties and microstructure of rotary friction welded tungsten heavy alloy with aluminum alloy (AA). A plastic deformation is visible on AA side. Effects of friction time (FT) and friction pressure (FP) on the ultimate tensile strength (UTS) were studied by plotting graphs. The UTS of joints increases with increasing FP and FT and then decreases after reaching the maximum value. The fracture proceeds through the cleavage planes at the interface. Scanning electron microscopy for investigation of the fracture morphology and phase transformations taking place during friction welding process was used. Chemical compositions of the interfaces of the welded joints were determined by using energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS). EDS analyses across the interface of tungsten and nickel have not confirmed the diffusion to AA side. Microstructure of friction welds consisted of equiaxed grains formed due to dynamic recrystallization and coarse grains in the periphery region on AA side.
Metabolic impact of genetic and chemical ADP/ATP carrier inhibition in renal proximal tubule epithelial cells
Authors: Hoogstraten Charlotte A. , Jacobs Maaike M. E. , de Boer Guido , van de Wal Melissa A. E. , Koopman Werner J. H. , Smeitink Jan A. M. , Russel Frans G. M. , Schirris Tom J. J.
Published: May 2023

Mitochondrial dysfunction is pivotal in drug-induced acute kidney injury (AKI), but the underlying mechanisms remain largely unknown. Transport proteins embedded in the mitochondrial inner membrane form a significant class of potential drug off-targets. So far, most transporter-drug interactions have been reported for the mitochondrial ADP/ATP carrier (AAC). Since it remains unknown to what extent AAC contributes to drug-induced mitochondrial dysfunction in AKI, we here aimed to better understand the functional role of AAC in the energy metabolism of human renal proximal tubular cells. To this end, CRISPR/Cas9 technology was applied to generate AAC3−/− human conditionally immortalized renal proximal tubule epithelial cells. This AAC3−/− cell model was characterized with respect to mitochondrial function and morphology. To explore whether this model could provide first insights into (mitochondrial) adverse drug effects with suspicion towards AAC-mediated mechanisms, wild-type and knockout cells were exposed to established AAC inhibitors, after which cellular metabolic activity and mitochondrial respiratory capacity were measured. Two AAC3−/− clones showed a significant reduction in ADP import and ATP export rates and mitochondrial mass, without influencing overall morphology. AAC3−/− clones exhibited reduced ATP production, oxygen consumption rates and metabolic spare capacity was particularly affected, mainly in conditions with galactose as carbon source. Chemical AAC inhibition was stronger compared to genetic inhibition in AAC3−/−, suggesting functional compensation by remaining AAC isoforms in our knockout model. In conclusion, our results indicate that ciPTEC-OAT1 cells have a predominantly oxidative phenotype that was not additionally activated by switching energy source. Genetic inhibition of AAC3 particularly impacted mitochondrial spare capacity, without affecting mitochondrial morphology, suggesting an important role for AAC in maintaining the metabolic spare respiration.
Morphological assessment of cartilage and osteoarthritis in clinical practice and research: Intermediate-weighted fat-suppressed sequences and beyond
Authors: Omoumi Patrick , Mourad Charbel , Ledoux Jean-Baptiste , Hilbert Tom
Published: May 2023

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is widely regarded as the primary modality for the morphological assessment of cartilage and all other joint tissues involved in osteoarthritis. 2D fast spin echo fat-suppressed intermediate-weighted (FSE FS IW) sequences with a TE between 30 and 40ms have stood the test of time and are considered the cornerstone of MRI protocols for clinical practice and trials. These sequences offer a good balance between sensitivity and specificity and provide appropriate contrast and signal within the cartilage as well as between cartilage, articular fluid, and subchondral bone. Additionally, FS IW sequences enable the evaluation of menisci, ligaments, synovitis/effusion, and bone marrow edema-like signal changes. This review article provides a rationale for the use of FSE FS IW sequences in the morphological assessment of cartilage and osteoarthritis, along with a brief overview of other clinically available sequences for this indication. Additionally, the article highlights ongoing research efforts aimed at improving FSE FS IW sequences through 3D acquisitions with enhanced resolution, shortened examination times, and exploring the potential benefits of different magnetic field strengths. While most of the literature on cartilage imaging focuses on the knee, the concepts presented here are applicable to all joints.

Key points

1. MRI is currently considered the modality of reference for a “whole-joint” morphological assessment of osteoarthritis.

2. Fat-suppressed intermediate-weighted sequences remain the keystone of MRI protocols for the assessment of cartilage morphology, as well as other structures involved in osteoarthritis.

3. Trends for further development in the field of cartilage and joint imaging include 3D FSE imaging, faster acquisition including AI-based acceleration, and synthetic imaging providing multi-contrast sequences.
In-line kitting for part feeding of assembly lines: workload balancing and storage assignment to reduce the workers’ walking effort
Authors: Fedtke Stefan , Boysen Nils , Schumacher Patrick
Published: May 2023

An efficient part feeding is among the top challenges of many mass producers applying mixed-model assembly lines, for instance, in the automotive industry. This paper introduces a novel part feeding policy applied by a large German assembly plant for car engines: In-line kitting. Under this policy, the first stations of the line do not execute assembly operations, but are reserved for picking parts while passing containers of stock-keeping units (SKUs) arranged along the line. In this way, the parts are collected in traveling kits moving along with each workpiece on the conveyor, so that later assembly stations have the required parts directly available and do not lose precious labor time for unproductive parts handling. A major operational challenge when applying this part feeding policy is the walking effort for the human pickers while putting the SKUs of their respective stations into the traveling kits of the passing workpieces. Due to a high product variety, a large number of comparatively bulky SKU containers have to fit into each station, so that the walking distance to be covered by a worker during a work shift exceeds multiple kilometers. We show that this physical burden can be reduced significantly by balancing the workload among stations and optimizing the storage assignment of SKU containers within each in-line kitting station. We formulate the resulting optimization problem and provide suited solution procedures. Our computational study shows that the walking distance of pickers can be reduced significantly without producing any additional costs.