bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Magnetic resonance elastography for the prediction of hepatocellular carcinoma in chronic hepatitis B
Authors: Tamaki Nobuharu , Higuchi Mayu , Keitoku Taisei , Yamazaki Yudai , Uchihara Naoki , Suzuki Keito , Tanaka Yuki , Miyamoto Haruka , Yamada Michiko , Okada Risa , Takaura Kenta , Tanaka Shohei , Maeyashiki Chiaki , Yasui Yutaka , Tsuchiya Kaoru , Nakanishi Hiroyuki , Kanto Tatsuya , Kurosaki Masayuki , Izumi Namiki
Published: April 2024

Background and Aim

Magnetic resonance elastography (MRE) is used for the evaluation of liver fibrosis; however, it remains unclear whether MRE‐based liver stiffness is associated with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) development, particularly in patients with chronic hepatitis B.

Methods

A total of 504 patients with chronic hepatitis B receiving MRE were enrolled. The primary endpoint was the association between MRE‐based liver stiffness and HCC.

Results

In a cross‐sectional analysis at the time of MRE measurement, the median (interquartile range) liver stiffness values in patients with presence or history of HCC and those without HCC were 3.68 (2.89–4.96) and 2.60 (2.22–3.45) kPa, respectively, and liver stiffness was significantly higher in patients with presence or history of HCC than in those without HCC (P < 0.001). In a longitudinal analysis of patients without HCC, the 1‐, 3‐, and 5‐year cumulative incidence of HCC in patients with liver stiffness ≥3.6 kPa and those with liver stiffness <3.6 kPa were 3.8%, 7.0%, and 22.9%, and 0%, 0.9%, and 1.5%, respectively (P < 0.001). In the multivariable analysis, MRE‐based liver stiffness (per 1 kPa) or liver stiffness ≥3.6 kPa was an independent factor for HCC development with an adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) of 1.61 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.3–2.0) or aHR of 8.22 (95% CI, 2.1–31).

Conclusion

MRE‐based liver stiffness is associated with HCC risk in patients with chronic hepatitis B and may be used for the early prediction of HCC development and determination of indications for treatment.
Practical Application of Multivendor MRI‐Based R2* Mapping for Liver Iron Quantification at 1.5 T and 3.0 T
Authors: Simchick Gregory , Zhao Ruiyang , Yuan Qing , Ghasabeh Mounes Aliyari , Ruschke Stefan , Karampinos Dimitrios C. , Harris David T. , do Vale Souza Raphael , Mattison Ryan J. , Jeng Michael R. , Pedrosa Ivan , Kamel Ihab R. , Vasanawala Shreyas , Yokoo Takeshi , Reeder Scott B. , Hernando Diego
Published: April 2024

Background

Recent multicenter, multivendor MRI‐based R2* vs. liver iron concentration (LIC) calibrations (i.e., MCMV calibrations) may facilitate broad clinical dissemination of R2*‐based LIC quantification. However, these calibrations are based on a centralized offline R2* reconstruction, and their applicability with vendor‐provided R2* maps is unclear.

Purpose

To determine R2* ranges of agreement between the centralized and three MRI vendors' R2* reconstructions.

Study Type

Prospective.

Subjects

Two hundred and seven subjects (mean age 37.6 ± 19.6 years; 117 male) with known or suspected iron overload from four academic medical centers.

Field Strength/Sequence

Standardized multiecho spoiled gradient echo sequence at 1.5 T and 3.0 T for R2* mapping and a multiple spin‐echo sequence at 1.5 T for LIC quantification. MRI vendors: GE Healthcare, Philips Healthcare, and Siemens Healthineers.

Assessment

R2* maps were generated using both the centralized and vendor reconstructions, and ranges of agreement were determined. R2*‐LIC linear calibrations were determined for each site, field strength, and reconstruction and compared with the MCMV calibrations.

Statistical Tests

Bland–Altman analysis to determine ranges of agreement. Linear regression, analysis of covariance F tests, and Tukey's multiple comparison testing to assess reproducibility of calibrations across sites and vendors. A P value <0.05 was considered significant.

Results

The upper limits of R2* ranges of agreement were approximately 500, 375, and 330 s−1 for GE, Philips, and Siemens reconstructions, respectively, at 1.5 T and approximately 700 and 800 s−1 for GE and Philips, respectively, at 3.0 T. Within the R2* ranges of agreement, vendor R2*‐LIC calibrations demonstrated high reproducibility (no significant differences between slopes or intercepts; P ≥ 0.06) and agreed with the MCMV calibrations (overlapping 95% confidence intervals).

Data Conclusion

Based on the determined upper limits, R2* measurements obtained from vendor‐provided R2* maps may be reliably and practically used to quantify LIC less than approximately 8–13 mg/g using the MCMV calibrations and similar acquisition parameters as this study.

Evidence Level

1

Technical Efficacy

Stage 3
Oxidation of Supported Amines for CO2 Direct Air Capture: Assessing Impact on Physical Properties and Mobility via NMR Relaxometry
Authors: Hunter‐Sellars Elwin , Kerr Julia D. , Eshelman Hannah V. , Pollard Zoe A. , Varni Anthony J. , Sakwa‐Novak Miles A. , Marple Maxwell A. T. , Pang Simon H.
Published: April 2024

Aminopolymer‐based adsorbents are commonly investigated for CO2 direct air capture (DAC). In the presence of high temperature and oxygen, which can occur during adsorption‐regeneration cycles, oxidative degradation can significantly reduce adsorbent lifetime. Degradation is typically measured using adsorption performance metrics or chemical characterization. This work demonstrates that the polymer's physical properties, as measured via nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) relaxometry and differential scanning calorimetry, can be used to quantitatively track degradation. The extent of oxidation of an alumina‐poly(ethylenimine) sample, measured by reductions in amine efficiency (A.E.), is correlated with proton T2 relaxation times. This work hypothesizes that T2 relaxation accurately tracks oxidative degradation in aminopolymers due to the reduction in polymer mobility occurring during the oxidation process. The ability to use NMR relaxometry as a noninvasive technique to probe degradation is demonstrated on a 1‐inch square‐channel monolith adsorbent exposed to actual DAC service conditions. This highlights the potential for relaxometry to evaluate the state of the adsorbent accurately and rapidly compared to typical analytical methods.
Fabrication of Uniform Anionic Polymeric Nanoplatelets as Building Blocks for Constructing Conductive Hydrogels with Enhancing Conductive and Mechanical Properties
Authors: Li Zehua , Guo Hui , Jin Xuhui
Published: April 2024

Conductive hydrogels play a crucial role in advancing technologies like implantable bioelectronics and wearable electronic devices, owing to their favorable conductivity and appropriate mechanical properties. Here, a novel bottom‐up approach is reported for crafting conductive nanocomposite hydrogels to achieve enhancing conductive and mechanical properties. In this approach, new poly(ɛ‐caprolactone)‐based block copolymers with sulfonic groups are first synthesized and self‐assembled into uniform polyanionic nanoplatelets. Subsequently, these negatively charged nanoplatelets, with sulfonic groups on the surface, are employed as nanoadditives for the polymerization of 3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene (EDOT), resulting in poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrene sulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS)/nanoplatelet complex with 3.8 times enhanced electrical conductivity compared with their counterparts prepared using block copolymers (BCPs). Blending the (PEDOT:PSS)/nanoplatelet complex with calcium alginate, nanocomposite hydrogels are successfully prepared. In comparison with hydrogels with (PEDOT:PSS)/BCP complexes prepared by a top‐down method, the nanocomposite hydrogels are found to show twice as strong mechanical strength and 1.6 times higher conductivity. This work provides valuable insights into the bottom‐up construction of conductive hydrogels for bioelectronics using well‐controlled polymeric nanoplatelets.
Mineral crude drug mirabilite (Mangxiao) inhibits the occurrence of colorectal cancer by regulating the Lactobacillus–bile acid–intestinal farnesoid X receptor axis based on multiomics integration analysis
Authors: Zhou Xiaohang , Sun Hui , Ren Junling , Yan Guangli , Yang Le , Zhang Honglian , Lu Haitao , Li Xinghua , Makino Toshiaki , Yin Fengting , Li Jing , Wang Xijun
Published: April 2024

Mineral crude drug has revolutionized the treatment landscape in precision oncology niche that leads to the improvement in therapeutic efficiency on various tumor subtypes. Mangxiao (MX), a mineral crude drug in traditional Chinese medicine, has been used for treating gastrointestinal diseases for thousands of years. However, the action mechanisms are still ambiguous. Here, we attempt to explore inhibitory roles and associated pharmacological mechanisms of MX upon colorectal cancer (CRC) in APCMin/+ male mice by integrating metabolomics, 16S rDNA sequencing analyses, and metagenomic‐based microbiota analysis. We found that MX can significantly inhibit the occurrence of CRC through the regulation of the dysregulated gut microbe metabolism. Furthermore, the correlation analysis of metabolomes and 16S rDNA revealed that MX could restore the disorders of gut microbes by specifically enriching the abundance of Lactobacilli to improve bile acid metabolism, which further activated the farnesoid X receptor (FXR) in CRC mice, then the improvement of gut dysbiosis could inhibit the development of CRC. Collectively, our effort confirmed MX has the capacity to intervene the development of CRC and further discovered that it targets Lactobacillus–bile acid–intestinal FXR axis, which can be regarded as a candidate medicine for future drug discovery and development against CRC.
Early Screening for the Parkinson Variant of Multiple System Atrophy: A 6‐Item Score
Authors: Fanciulli Alessandra , Stankovic Iva , Avraham Omer , Jecmenica Lukic Milica , Ezra Adi , Leys Fabian , Goebel Georg , Krismer Florian , Petrovic Igor , Svetel Marina , Seppi Klaus , Kostic Vladimir , Giladi Nir , Poewe Werner , Wenning Gregor K. , Gurevich Tanya
Published: April 2024

Background

A 4‐item score based on ≥2 features out of orthostatic hypotension, overactive bladder, urinary retention and postural instability was previously shown to early distinguish the Parkinson‐variant of multiple system atrophy (MSA‐P) from Parkinson's disease (PD) with 78% sensitivity and 86% specificity.

Objectives

To replicate and improve the 4‐item MSA‐P score.

Methods

We retrospectively studied 161 patients with early parkinsonism [ie, ≤2 years disease duration or no postural instability, aged 64 (57; 68) years, 44% females] and a diagnosis of clinically established MSA‐P (n = 38) or PD (n = 123) after ≥24 months follow‐up.

Results

The 4‐item MSA‐P score had a 92% sensitivity and 78% specificity for a final MSA‐P diagnosis. By including dopaminergic responsiveness and postural deformities into a 6‐item score (range: 0–6), reaching ≥3 points at early disease identified MSA‐P patients with 89% sensitivity and 98% specificity.

Conclusions

The 6‐item MSA‐P score is a cost‐effective tool to pinpoint individuals with early‐stage MSA‐P.
Alternating block linearized Bregman iterations for regularized nonnegative matrix factorization
Authors: Chen Beier , Zhang Hui
Published: April 2024

In this paper, we propose an alternating block variant of the linearized Bregman iterations for a class of regularized nonnegative matrix factorization (NMF) problems. The proposed method exploits the block structure of NMF, utilizes the smooth adaptable property of the loss function based on the Bregman distance, and at the same time follows the iterative regularization idea of the linearized Bregman iterations method. Theoretically, we show that the proposed method is a descent method by adjusting the involved parameters. Finally, we end with several illustrative numerical experiments.
Handling effectively the rejected stages in Runge–Kutta pairs implementation
Authors: Xiang Er‐Ping , Lin Chia‐Liang , Simos T. E. , Tsitouras Ch.
Published: April 2024

Runge–Kutta (RK) pairs are widely used for numerically solving initial value problems (IVPs), but dealing with step rejections during integration is a common occurrence. Conventionally, when a step is rejected, all calculations made during that step are discarded, and a completely new set of computations is initiated. In our research, we propose a method to address this inefficiency by repurposing the previously computed RK stages from rejected steps. Our primary focus is on the renowned RKF45 pair, consisting of fifth‐ and fourth‐order methods. When a step rejection occurs, we leverage the stages computed in prior steps and introduce just three additional stages. These stages are then used to evaluate the results with a smaller step size. This approach effectively reduces computational costs in various challenging IVPs where RK algorithms with different step sizes encounter difficulties
In vitro effects of β3‐adrenoceptor agonist mirabegron on the human ureter
Authors: Artykov Meylis , Ozcelebi Esin , Sara Mehmet Yildirim , Gudeloglu Ahmet , Iskit Alper Bektas , Aki Fazil Tuncay
Published: April 2024

Introduction

This study aimed to investigate the effect of mirabegron, a β3‐adrenoceptor agonist with widespread clinical use for treating overactive bladder disease, on isolated healthy human ureter strips.

Materials and Methods

This was a prospective study employing a series of in vitro organ bath experiments using ureteral tissues of kidney grafts from 10 healthy donors. The ureteral strips were subjected to cumulative mirabegron concentrations (10−9–10−4.5 M). Effects on frequency or amplitude of spontaneous, 10 mM KCl‐ or EFS‐induced contractions were evaluated.

Results

Mirabegron decreased the frequency of spontaneous ureteric contraction in a concentration‐dependent manner. Statistically significant decrease in the frequency of spontaneous contraction was observed at 10−8–10−4.5 M. In 10 mM KCl medium, statistically significant change in frequency was observed at 10−9–10−4.5 M. Statistically significant decrease in the amplitudes of spontaneous contraction was observed at 10−7–10−4.5 M. In a 10 mM KCl medium, statistically significant change in amplitudes was observed at 10−8–10−4.5 M.

Conclusions

Mirabegron reduced the amplitude and frequency of human ureter activity in in vitro organ bath studies. This effect was achieved in a dose‐dependent manner on isolated tissue strips. Although monotherapy with mirabegron remains uncertain, this study has the potential to elucidate the mechanism underlying the effectiveness of mirabegron, particularly in combination therapy for ureteral stones.
Biomechanical behavior of three‐dimensional bioactive composite constructs on extraction socket remodeling
Authors: Ramadoss Ramya , R.G Sangeetha , S Krithika , S Shahil Kumar , G Naveen Kumar , Rajashree P. , Krishnan Rajkumar
Published: April 2024

Objectives

Loss of mechanostimulation leads to dimensional alterations in the extraction socket. The study aims to use three‐dimensional spatial stimulation of the socket wall to assess if bioactive composite constructs could generate mechanostimulative activity.

Methods

Analysis of the biomechanical behavior of the three‐dimensional bioactive composite constructs was done in a model created using ANSYS, and mechanical properties were assessed using finite element analysis.

Results

Total deformation on the mandible was higher in alginate bioglass and chitosan alginate bioglass than gelatin. Bioglass composites were capable of generating a higher strain on the surrounding alveolar bone than gelatin. The maximum principal elastic strain and equivalent (von Mises) stress of chitosan and bioglass were higher than those of gelatin.

Significance

Differential stress/strain generated on the alveolar bone with a three‐dimensional approach from early stages of remodeling will have a profound effect on the reduction of alveolar bone loss.
Mechanical properties: Lifespan and retention forecast for jute fiber woven fabric reinforced epoxy matrix composite
Authors: Subramani Satheeshkumar , Munimathan Arunkumar , Manivannan Jegan Manickam , Sivanraju Rajkumar
Published: April 2024

Polymer composites bonded with natural fibers are extensively used for a range of engineering purposes. Preserving their mechanical strength and estimating their maximum service life are thus essential for efficient usage. The primary goals of this effort are to analyze and forecast the longest possible life span of composites. To do this, Fick's law and the Arrhenius principle are employed to analyze the diffusion coefficient and activation energy. Compression molding technology and a manual technique for layup were employed to make the composites reinforced with epoxy laminate and woven mats of jute fiber (JRC). Three layering patterns were used to prepare the laminated composite: 45° angle‐ply laminate [0°/+45°/0°/−45°/0°], 0° balanced laminate [0°/0°/0°/0°/0°/0°], and 30° angle‐ply laminate [0°/+30°/0°/−30°/0°]. In order to examine how aging affected the composites' mechanical properties, the materials were immersed in water for 10, 20, 30, and 40 days throughout the study. The study's conclusions showed that the composite samples' weight rose with age. It was possible to make precise predictions about strength retention by comparing the mechanical characteristics of aged (wet) and unaged composites. It was discovered that the strongest composites were those with a 45‐degree stacking pattern. The activation energy of composites with a 45° angle‐ply laminate layering pattern is maximum, according to the Arrhenius principle. Additionally, using an electron microscope with scanning capabilities (SEM), it was possible to determine the fiber matrix and the tensile cracked surface contact connection.

Highlights

The widespread usage of polymer composites with natural fibers in engineering applications.

Preservation of mechanical strength and predicting the maximum service life of these composites show how important these materials are for engineering efficiency.

Fick's rule and the Arrhenius principle are used to analyze diffusion coefficient and activation energy.

Laminated composites are made using 45° angle‐ply, 0° balanced laminate, and 30° angle‐ply layering patterns.

The impact of simulated aging on composite mechanical characteristics by water immersion for varied periods.
Simultaneous port number and location optimization of mold gates‐vents using in‐house coded stochastic multi‐objective optimization algorithm
Authors: Zade Anita , Kumar Subhank , Kuppusamy Raghu Raja Pandiyan
Published: April 2024

This research introduces multi‐objective stochastic optimization (MOSO) and non‐dominated sorting differential evolution (NSDE) in‐house coded algorithms for enhancing the optimization of the resin transfer molding (RTM) process during the mold‐fill phase for composite parts. Glass fiber‐vinyl ester‐based automotive bonnet and carbon fiber‐RTM6‐based aircraft wing flap parts were used as the case studies. Initially, the NSDE algorithm was developed for the simultaneous optimization of dry‐spot content and mold‐fill time by changing the locations of gates and vents with pre‐fixed port numbers. Then, the MOSO algorithm was designed for the concurrent optimization of the dry‐spot content, mold‐fill time and total number of ports by changing both the numbers and locations of gates and vents. The effect of race‐tracking was also investigated using higher permeability values at the composite part‐cut edges. When compared, the MOSO algorithm predicted less dry‐spot content, number of ports, mold‐fill time and uniform resin flow‐front progressions with lesser functional evaluations and computational time than the NSDE algorithm.

Highlights

The non‐dominated sorting differential evolution (NSDE) and multi‐objective stochastic optimization (MOSO) algorithms were developed for the optimization of the mold fill phase of resin transfer molded composite parts.

The development of the NSDE algorithm aimed to concurrently optimize the dry‐spot content and mold‐fill time by changing the locations of gates and vents with pre‐fixed port numbers.

The MOSO algorithm was designed to concurrently optimize dry‐spot content, mold‐fill time, and the total number of ports by varying both the numbers and locations of gates and vents.

The MOSO algorithm predicted better‐automated mold‐fill phase optimalities for the resin transfer molded composite parts compared to the NSDE algorithm.
Dynamic response of GFRP/Nomex honeycomb sandwich panels subjected to multiple hail impacts – An experimental study
Authors: Sun Yigang , Xu Zhenkun , Deng Yunfei
Published: April 2024

Nowadays, more and more aircraft components are made of composite sandwich structures, and ice impacts are prone to cause internal damage to composite sandwich structures, so it is crucial to study the impact of hail on composite sandwich structures. Since hail impacts may occur several times at a single point, an experimental approach was used to investigate the dynamic response of GFRP/Nomex honeycomb sandwich panels under multiple hail impacts. The dynamic response of the structure was investigated in terms of response rate and deflection‐profile curves using 3D digital image correlation methods, and the effects of impact energy, hail size, and number of impacts on the impact resistance of the honeycomb sandwich structure were explored. The results show that the dynamic response process of sandwich panels can be categorized into the ball‐and‐crown phase, the rebound phase, and the vibration phase. Under the same impact energy, the impact of small‐sized hailstones is more threatening to honeycomb sandwich panels. As the number of impacts increases, the maximum deflection value of the back panel first increases uniformly, and when the layered damage area reaches the threshold value, fiber stripping occurs, and the increment of the maximum deflection value increases significantly.

Highlights

Since hail impacts may occur several times in real situations, this study conducted multiple impact experiments for one impact site. The dynamic response and damage pattern of the GFRP/Nomex honeycomb sandwich panels under multiple hail impacts were also investigated.

The dynamic response process of GFRP/Nomex honeycomb sandwich panels was categorized into three phases: ball‐crown stage, rebound stage, and vibration stage.

With the increase of the number of impacts, fiber stripping and fiber break damage began to occur when the layered damage area of the panel reached the threshold value. The honeycomb core has three main failure modes: cell wall folds, cell wall fracture, and cell wall debonding at the TGPW interface.

Small‐diameter hails pose a more significant threat of damage to honeycomb sandwich panels at the same impact energy.
Investigation of physical, thermal, mechanical and gas permeability properties of low‐density polyethylene/ poly(4‐methyl‐1‐pentene) blend films and their utilization for fresh‐cut fruit and vegetable packaging applications
Authors: Gokkurt Tolga , Gokkurt Yasemen
Published: April 2024

In this study, low density polyethylene/poly(4‐methyl‐1‐pentene) (LDPE/PMP) blend films were prepared by melt compounding in a twin‐screw extruder then film casting in a single screw extruder equipped with a cast‐film. Morphological, thermal, and mechanical properties of flexible blend films were characterized by XRD, SEM, DSC analysis, and tensile tests. Solid‐state viscoelastic properties of samples were also quantified by measuring creep behaviors in DMA. Oxygen and carbon dioxide permeability values of films were measured. Their packaging film application performances were evaluated by observing the textural properties of fresh‐cut bananas stored into LDPE and a blend film bag and monitoring the ethylene, oxygen, carbon dioxide concentrations into the bags for 14 days. It was found that LDPE/PMP blends showed partially miscible structure but yielded highly transparent films. DSC results pointed out that the PMP significantly reduced the degree of crystallinity value of LDPE. On the other hand, PMP improved tensile strength and elastic modulus of LDPE. Creep tests indicated that the PMP addition significantly reduced the creep resistance and relaxation time of LDPE. This study clearly signified that the PMP dramatically increased the oxygen permeability value of LDPE. It has also been concluded that LDPE/PMP blend films can be used as a highly permeable packaging material for successfully extending the shelf life of fresh‐cut fruits and vegetables.

Highlights

LDPE/PMP films, despite being partially miscible, are highly transparent and made through melt compounding and film casting.

Adding PMP to LDPE reduces crystallinity but improves tensile strength and elasticity, as shown by DSC tests.

PMP reduces LDPE's creep resistance and quickens relaxation time, according to DMA creep tests.

PMP greatly increases LDPE's oxygen permeability, ideal for gas‐transmitting packaging.

LDPE/PMP film packaging prolongs the shelf life of fresh produce, proven in a banana storage study.
Compressive behavior of hierarchical brick‐and‐mortar structures obtained by fused deposition modeling
Authors: Opelt Carlos Vinicios , Martins Marcelo Matos
Published: April 2024

Nature is a never‐ending fount of inspiration to solve engineering problems. In light of this, the goal of this work is to propose and study structures that mimic materials found in nature, more specifically nacre. These structures were designed to be manufactured using fused deposition modeling since this is an accessible way to reproduce complex geometries. The manufactured biomimetic materials were tested in uniaxial compression in two different directions. In addition, an elastoplastic numerical analysis was used to better understand the compressive behavior of the studied structures. The comparison between experimental and numerical analysis reveals that the overall behavior results from two competing mechanisms, that is, an increase in stiffness due to strain‐hardening and a stiffness decay promoted by damage propagation. Moreover, it was possible to see that the structures continue to bear load while they retain the structural integrity, which is dominated by the crushing strength of each type of structure.

Highlights

Additive manufactured nacre‐inspired structures were proposed.

Influence of different geometries in the compressive behavior was assessed.

Behavior was linked to competition between strain‐hardening and damage growth.

Load‐bearing capacity was related to the structural integrity of elements.

The crack deflection mechanism was identified in some specimens.
Daylight photoluminescence imaging of photovoltaic systems using inverter‐based switching
Authors: Weber J. W. , Kunz O. , Knaack C. , Chung D. , Barson A. , Slade A. , Ouyang Z. , Gottlieb H. , Trupke T.
Published: April 2024

Daylight photoluminescence imaging of crystalline silicon photovoltaic modules is demonstrated for modules embedded in rooftop and utility‐scale systems, using inverters to electrically switch the operating point of the array. The method enables rapid and high‐quality luminescence image acquisition during the day, unlocking efficient performance and quality monitoring without the need to connect specific electrical hardware or to make any modifications to the system wiring. The principle of the measurement approach is discussed, and experimental results from a 12‐kWDC residential rooftop system and from a 149 MWDC utility‐scale photovoltaic power plant are presented. Measurements were performed using commercial inverters without modifications to the inverter hardware or firmware. In the case of the utility‐scale power plant, the daylight photoluminescence image acquisition of modules connected to a central inverter was obtained from a remote piloted aircraft. Data analysis includes the conversion of photoluminescence image data into implied voltage differences.
Effect of screw speed in compounding of poly(butylene adipate‐co‐terephthalate)/thermoplastic starch blends and their processability by cast extrusion
Authors: Genovesi Annalisa , Gisario Annamaria , Barletta Massimiliano
Published: April 2024

Blends of bio‐polyesters cover a wide percentage of the market share and possess properties comparable to the ones of conventional polymers. Poly(butylene adipate‐co‐terephthalate) (PBAT) is a fossil‐based compostable bioplastic, which possess good mechanical properties and processability. Blending PBAT with thermoplastic starch (TPS) allows to lower the cost of the final products and to increase the amount of bioderived material. The influence of the processing parameters on the morphology and on the mechanical properties of PBAT/TPS blends is studied. The compounds were produced via twin‐screw extrusion and then films were produced via cast film extrusion. The quality of the dispersion is strongly related to the screw speed adopted during the compounding process. The quality of the film and their processability depend on the parameters adopted during the compounding process.
Post‐microwave plasma catalysis: Current developments and future implications
Authors: Brown Siobhan W. , Tiwari Sarojini , Hu Jianli
Published: April 2024

Post‐microwave plasma catalysis combines plasma preactivation of the gas phase followed by a fixed bed catalyst. This process has the potential to be energy efficient, modular, versatile and to generate high numbers of active species compared with other plasma generation technologies. Specific applications of these post‐microwave plasma systems include the dissociation and activation of stable molecules and the modification of catalyst materials. This concept article will address the current findings in microwave plasma catalysis research and propose future questions that need to be addressed to further develop the technology.
Noncontact respiration monitoring techniques in young children: A scoping review
Authors: van der Linden Marjolein , Veldhoen Esther S. , Arasteh Emad , Long Xi , Alderliesten Thomas , de Goederen Robbin , Dudink Jeroen
Published: April 2024

Pediatric sleep‐related breathing disorders, or sleep‐disordered breathing (SDB), cover a range of conditions, including obstructive sleep apnea, central sleep apnea, sleep‐related hypoventilation disorders, and sleep‐related hypoxemia disorder. Pediatric SDB is often underdiagnosed, potentially due to difficulties associated with performing the gold standard polysomnography in children. This scoping review aims to: (1) provide an overview of the studies reporting on safe, noncontact monitoring of respiration in young children, (2) describe the accuracy of these techniques, and (3) highlight their respective advantages and limitations. PubMed and EMBASE were searched for studies researching techniques in children <12 years old. Both quantitative data and the quality of the studies were analyzed. The evaluation of study quality was conducted using the QUADAS‐2 tool. A total of 19 studies were included. Techniques could be grouped into bed‐based methods, microwave radar, video, infrared (IR) cameras, and garment‐embedded sensors. Most studies either measured respiratory rate (RR) or detected apneas; n = 2 aimed to do both. At present, bed‐based approaches are at the forefront of research in noncontact RR monitoring in children, boasting the most sophisticated algorithms in this field. Yet, despite extensive studies, there remains no consensus on a definitive method that outperforms the rest. The accuracies reported by these studies tend to cluster within a similar range, indicating that no single technique has emerged as markedly superior. Notably, all identified methods demonstrate capability in detecting body movements and RR, with reported safety for use in children across the board. Further research into contactless alternatives should focus on cost‐effectiveness, ease‐of‐use, and widespread availability.
Genotype‐driven asthma prescribing of inhaled corticosteroids and long‐acting β2‐agonist: A cost‐effectiveness analysis
Authors: Buendía Jefferson Antonio , Salazar Andrés Felipe Zuluaga
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Predicting response to inhaled corticosteroids (ICSs) + long‐acting β2‐agonist (LABA) by previously detecting the presence of Arg16Gly ADRB2 genotype is a strategy that could reduce and optimize the management of asthmatic patients. There is a need for economic evaluations to facilitate the implementation of such tests. This research aims to evaluate the cost‐effectiveness of Arg16Gly ADRB2 screening in children with asthma in Colombia.

Methods

From the perspective of a third‐party payer, we conducted a cost‐effectiveness analysis to determine the cost and quality‐adjusted life‐years (QALYs) of genotype‐driven asthma prescribing based on the Arg16Gly ADRB2 genotype versus current treatment based on no genetic testing. Using four state‐transition models, we estimate cost and QALYs employing micro‐simulation modeling with a time horizon of 10 years and a cycle length of 1 week. Cost‐effectiveness was assessed at a willingness‐to‐pay (WTP) value of US$5180.

Results

The mean incremental cost of strategy genetic testing versus no genetic testing is US$ −6809. The mean incremental benefit of strategy genetic testing is 16 QALYs. The incremental net monetary benefit of strategic genetic testing versus no genetic testing is US$ 88,893. Genetic testing is the strategy with the highest expected net benefit. The outcomes derived from our primary analysis remained robust when subjected to variations in all underlying assumptions and parameter values.

Conclusion

Genetic testing of Arg16Gly ADRB2 is a cost‐effective strategy to address asthma management in asthmatic children requiring ICS+LABA. This result should encourage the generation of more evidence and the incorporation of such evidence into clinical practice guidelines for pediatric asthma.
Functional in vitro diversity of an intrinsically disordered plant protein during freeze–thawing is encoded by its structural plasticity
Authors: Hernández‐Sánchez Itzell , Rindfleisch Tobias , Alpers Jessica , Dulle Martin , Garvey Christopher J. , Knox‐Brown Patrick , Miettinen Markus S. , Nagy Gergely , Pusterla Julio M. , Rekas Agata , Shou Keyun , Stadler Andreas M. , Walther Dirk , Wolff Martin , Zuther Ellen , Thalhammer Anja
Published: April 2024

Intrinsically disordered late embryogenesis abundant (LEA) proteins play a central role in the tolerance of plants and other organisms to dehydration brought upon, for example, by freezing temperatures, high salt concentration, drought or desiccation, and many LEA proteins have been found to stabilize dehydration‐sensitive cellular structures. Their conformational ensembles are highly sensitive to the environment, allowing them to undergo conformational changes and adopt ordered secondary and quaternary structures and to participate in formation of membraneless organelles. In an interdisciplinary approach, we discovered how the functional diversity of the Arabidopsis thaliana LEA protein COR15A found in vitro is encoded in its structural repertoire, with the stabilization of membranes being achieved at the level of secondary structure and the stabilization of enzymes accomplished by the formation of oligomeric complexes. We provide molecular details on intra‐ and inter‐monomeric helix–helix interactions, demonstrate how oligomerization is driven by an α‐helical molecular recognition feature (α‐MoRF) and provide a rationale that the formation of noncanonical, loosely packed, right‐handed coiled‐coils might be a recurring theme for homo‐ and hetero‐oligomerization of LEA proteins.
Application of fertilizer and insecticide can reduce Antonina graminis (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae) and improve the quality of golf course putting greens
Authors: Wolverton Robert , Joseph Shimat V.
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND

Rhodesgrass mealybug, Antonina graminis, is a serious pest of ultradwarf hybrid bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon × C. transvaalensis) on golf course putting greens. A. graminis feeding damage appears as extensive yellowing of turfgrass blades and heavy thinning from mid‐to‐late summer into fall. Putting greens are intensively managed areas of the golf course where fertilizers are routinely applied to maintain and enhance turfgrass quality, playability and aesthetics. We hypothesize that A. graminis populations can be minimized by reducing nitrogen (N) fertilizer and then effectively managed using systemic insecticides. The objective of this study was to determine the effects of various levels of N fertilizer and flupyradifurone on the A. graminis population and turfgrass quality on the golf course putting green. The treatments were low, medium, and high N fertilizer rates with and without insecticide (flupyradifurone).

RESULTS

Applying a high dose of N fertilizer improved turfgrass quality without increasing A. graminis densities on the golf course green. Although flupyradifurone application reduced A. graminis densities regardless of N fertilizer treatments, suppression of A. graminis densities improved at the high fertilizer dose with flupyradifurone. Additionally, the turfgrass quality on the putting green improved with high N fertilizer alone, regardless of flupyradifurone application.

CONCLUSION

A. graminis populations can be managed using moderate to high levels of N fertilizer and applying a systemic insecticide. The low nitrogen fertilizer did not effectively reduce the A. graminis densities on the putting green. © 2024 The Author(s). Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
The Oxidative C−C Bond Cleavage for the Valorization of Lignin
Authors: Guo Shaoyuan , Wang Miao , Tong Xinli
Published: April 2024

Selective and efficient transformation of lignin to the value‐added chemicals is of importance to realize the industrial application of the renewable biomass resources. The oxidative cleavage of carbon‐carbon (C−C) bond is a promising technique for the depolymerization and refining of lignin. Herein, the catalyst system for oxidative valorization of lignin and lignin models is summarized, which includes the thermocatalytic, photocatalytic and electrocatalytic approaches. In the thermocatalytic system, homogeneous catalysis and heterogeneous catalysis is introduced and discussed, respectively. For the photocatalytic or electrocatalytic system, the used photocatalyst or electrocatalyst is emphasized. At last, the insights to main challenges and future perspectives on the oxidative valorization of lignin have been presented.
Forced Degradation Products of Olmesartan Medoxomil and their In Vitro Genotoxicity Assessment by Comet Assay using HEK Cells
Authors: Wankhade Shrutika , Nikhil Pallaprolu , Jain Riya , Mishra Sushmita , Kumarasamy Murali , Ramalingam P.
Published: April 2024

This study designed to characterize major forced degradation products of Olmesartan Medoxomil (OM) and to perform genotoxicity profiling using acid, base, and hydrogen peroxide‐induced stress degradation studies. The isolation of degradation products was conducted on flash chromatography using FlashPure ECOFLEX C18 4 g column with gradient elution and diode array detection‐based fraction collection, and characterized by mass spectrometry. Three impurities (impurity‐1, 2, and 3) were identified with respective m/z values of 447.213, 461.229, and 463.208. The genotoxic potential of impurities was assessed by in silico prediction, and in vitro comet assay using HEK cells. The extent of DNA damage was analyzed using Comet Assay IV imaging software. For impurity‐1, head and tail lengths and their respective total intensities were significantly (p<0.001) larger than those of dimethyl sulfoxide (solvent) control and comparable to positive control. Other parameters such as mean grey level and total area of comet were statistically significant as compared with the solvent and positive controls. Overall, impurity‐1 was a possible genotoxic impurity and a known major degradation product in OM tablet dosage form. In silico prediction also revealed impurity‐1 as toxicity class 3, whilst impurities 2 and 3 were of toxicity class 4.
Silica Nanoparticles Functionalized with an Ionic Liquid: A Green and Efficient Heterogeneous Catalyst for a Cascade Reaction
Authors: Vafaeezadeh Majid , Rajabi Fatemeh , Prosenc Marc H. , Heider Benjamin , Kleist Wolfgang , Thiel Werner R.
Published: April 2024

A new strategy for a catalytic C−C bond forming cascade reaction comprising acetal hydrolysis and Knoevenagel condensation is presented here. The heterogeneous nanocatalyst is prepared by immobilizing an ionic liquid on the surface of highly monodisperse silica nanoparticles. This work is the first example of showing that there is no need to use bifunctional acid‐base catalysts for a cascade reaction including the hydrolysis of benzaldehyde dimethyl acetal to benzaldehyde and the subsequent Knoevenagel condensation of the resulting benzaldehyde with malononitrile. It is shown here that these reactions can proceed smoothly with a mono‐functional heterogeneous catalyst that contains a neutral ionic liquid. It has been proposed that such a neutral ionic liquid can “switch on” to an acidic catalyst in conjunction with water. The selected ionic liquid has potentially biodegradability characteristics, which is an important issue to achieve a sustainable catalyst. The simple procedure for preparing both the ionic liquid and the monodisperse silica nanoparticles provides opportunities for a large‐scale synthesis of the catalyst. This work introduces a breakthrough in the design and synthesis of heterogeneous catalysts for acid/base catalyzed cascade organic reactions.
Synthesis, Biological Evaluation and Molecular Docking Study of Novel Benzhydryl Piperazine‐1,2,3‐Triazoline Hybrids
Authors: Al‐Masoudi Najim A. , Jihad Raad S. , Abdul‐Rida Nabeel A. , Al‐Shamari Amer M. J. , Saeed Bahjat , Al‐Masoudi Wasfi A.
Published: April 2024

Herein, a novel series of 1,5‐disubstituted‐1,2,3‐triazolines containing 1‐(4‐chlorobenzhydryl) piperazine moiety (8–18) were synthesised and evaluated for their anticancer activity across eight human tumor cell lines. Remarkably, compound 11 substituted with 3‐acetylphenyl group was the most potent anticancer agent against three selected human cancer cell lines (HL‐60, Z138, and DND‐41) with IC50 values of 16.80, 18.50, and 19.20 μM, respectively. In contrast, analogue 10 demonstrated activity against HL‐60, Z138, and DND‐41 cell lines, with IC50 values of 19.90, 18.00, and 18.50 μM, respectively. Moreover, derivative 13 substituted with 4‐bromophenyl moiety displayed activity with IC50=19.90 μM against the DND‐41 cell line. However, all analogues showed IC50 values ranging from 22.95 to 58.45 μM when tested against other investigated cancer cell lines. These findings suggest that derivative 11 holds promise as a potential candidate for synthesizing novel anticancer agents. Furthermore, compounds 8–18 were screened for their antioxidant activity. Molecular docking studies of compound 11 on crystal structures of two proteins, CDK2/cyclin A2 (PDB: 7B7S) and kinase Akt1 PKB alpha (PDB: 4GV1) have been studied.
Aggregation Inducing Reversible Conformational Isomerization of Surface Staple in Au18SR14 Nanoclusters
Authors: Wang Meng , Xia Shan , Jiang Chengjia , He Shuyi , Xia Jianfei , Wang Zonghua , Yuan Xun , Liu Liren , Chen Jishi
Published: April 2024

The conformation of molecules and materials is crucial in determining their properties and applications. Here, this work explores the reversible transformation between two distinct conformational isomers in metal nanoclusters. This work demonstrates the successful manipulation of a controllable and reversible isomerization of Au18SR14 within an aqueous solution through two distinct methods: ethanol addition and pH adjustment. The initial driver is the alteration of the solution environment, leading to the aggregation of Au18SR14 protected by ligands with smaller steric hindrance. At the atomic level, the folding mode of the unique Au4SR5 staple underpins the observed structural transformation. The reversal of staple conformation leads to color shifting between green and orange‐red, and tailors a second emission peak at 725 nm originating from charge transfer from the thiolate to the Au9 core. This work not only deepens the understanding of the surface structure and dual‐emission of metal nanoparticles, but also enhances the comprehension of their isomerization.
Stability of Iodine Species Trapped in Titanium‐Based MOFs: MIL‐125 and MIL‐125_NH2
Authors: Andrade Pedro H. M. , Dhainaut Jérémy , Volkringer Christophe , Loiseau Thierry , Moncomble Aurélien , Hureau Matthieu , Moissette Alain
Published: April 2024

Two titanium‐based MOFs MIL‐125 and MIL‐125_NH2 are synthesized and characterized using high‐temperature powder X‐ray diffraction (PXRD), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), N2 sorption, Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Raman spectroscopy, ultraviolet‐visible spectroscopy (UV–Vis), and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR). Stable up to 300 °C, both compounds exhibited similar specific surface areas (SSA) values (1207 and 1099 m2 g−1 for MIL‐125 and MIL‐125_NH2, respectively). EPR signals of Ti3+ are observed in both, whith MIL‐125_NH2 also showing ─NH2●+ signatures. Both MOFs efficiently adsorbed iodine in continuous gas flow over five days, with MIL‐125 trapping 1.9 g.g−1 and MIL‐125_NH2 trapping 1.6 g.g−1. MIL‐125_NH2 exhibited faster adsorption kinetics due to its smaller band gap (2.5 against 3.6 eV). In situ Raman spectroscopy conducted during iodine adsorption revealed signal evolution from “free” I2 to “perturbed” I2, and I3−. TGA and in situ Raman desorption experiments showed that ─NH2 groups improved the stabilization of I3− due to an electrostatic interaction with NH2●+BDC radicals. The Albery model indicated longer lifetimes for iodine desorption in I2@MIL‐125_NH2, attributed to a rate‐limiting step due to stronger interaction between the anionic iodine species and the ─NH2●+ radicals. This study underscores how MOFs with efficient charge separation and hole‐stabilizer functional groups enhance iodine stability at higher temperatures.
Orientation‐Driven Large Magnetic Hysteresis of Er(III) Cyclooctatetraenide‐Based Single‐Ion Magnets Adsorbed on Ag(100)
Authors: Romankov Vladyslav , Bernhardt Moritz , Heinrich Martin , Vaclavkova Diana , Harriman Katie , Daffé Niéli , Delley Bernard , Korzyński Maciej Damian , Muntwiler Matthias , Copéret Christophe , Murugesu Muralee , Nolting Frithjof , Dreiser Jan
Published: April 2024

The molecular self‐assembly and the magnetic properties of two cyclooctatetraenide (COT)‐based single‐ion magnets (SIM) adsorbed on Ag(100) in the sub‐monolayer (ML) range are reported. Our study combines scanning‐tunneling microscopy, X‐ray photoemission spectroscopy and polarized X‐ray absorption spectroscopy to show that Cp*ErCOT (Cp* = 1,2,3,4,5‐pentamethylcyclopentadienide anion) SIMs self‐assemble as alternating compact parallel rows including standing‐up and lying‐down conformations, following the main crystallographic directions of the substrate. Conversely, K[Er(COT)2], obtained from subliming the [K(18‐c‐6)][Er(COT)2]·2THF salt, forms uniaxially ordered domains with the (COT)2− rings perpendicular to the substrate plane. The polarization‐dependent X‐ray absorption spectra reproduced by the multiX simulations suggest that the strong in‐plane magnetic anisotropy of K[Er(COT)2]/Ag(100) and the weak out‐of‐plane anisotropy of Cp*ErCOT/Ag(100) can be attributed to the strikingly different surface ordering of these two complexes. Compared to the bulk phase, surface‐supported K[Er(COT)2] exhibits a similarly large hysteresis opening, while the Cp*ErCOT shows a rather small opening. This result reveals that despite structural similarities, the two organometallic SMMs have strongly different magnetic properties when adsorbed on the metal substrate, attributed to the different orientations and the resulting interactions of the ligand rings with the surface.