bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Touches to the iconography of Prince Dmitry A. Golitsyn: the search for portraits
Authors: Sechin Aleksandr Georgievich , Abdullina Darina Aleksandrovna
Published: December 2023

Author consider a number of works that have been identified by various researchers as portraits of D. A. Golitsyn, a prominent statesman of the Russian Empire in the second half of the 18th century. The Prince's interest in art determined his special role in the artistic world of Europe, as well as in the formation of the Hermitage collection and in attracting foreign artists to the country. The subject of research is the connection of existing portrait images with the milestones of the fate of Golitsyn and in the context of interaction with the artistic world of the 18th century. Despite the prince’s close contacts with painters, sculptors, and graphic artists, few portraits of him are currently known. Research method used in the article is the iconographic elucidation of the main features of Prince Golitsyn's appearance, which allow to identify his images. The scientific novelty of the study consists in the systematization of the iconographic series of images of D. A. Golitsyn available today, as a result of which his well-known silhouette portrait turned out to be created by a modern graphic artist I. V. Golitsyn based on an engraving depicting the son of the prince, a priest of the Catholic Church D. D. Golitsyn. The attribution of one of D. A. Golitsyn's portraits from the collection of his daughter's heirs, the German aristocrats Salm-Salm, is recognized as erroneous, since it is a copy of the work of the French painter of the first half of the 18th century from the Coypel family and depicts another person. The circle of absolutely indisputable images of Prince has been determined. Golitsyn, which include sculptural portraits by French artist Marie-Anne Collot, one of which is now in a private collection in Moscow, as well as a profile drawing by her husband Pierre-Etienne Falconet.
Subjektiivsuse aspekt Aurora Semperi kontserdikriitikas aastail 1938–1940 ja 1957–1965
Authors:   Estonian Academy of Music and Theatre, Morozov Meeta
Published: December 2023

The article examines the subjective aspect in concert reviews by Estonian music critic, pianist, teacher and music historian Aurora Semper (1899–1982), investigating whether and how different socio-political context influenced the manifestation of Semper’s subjective evaluations and taste in her writings for the newspapers Postimees (1938–1940) and Sirp ja Vasar (1956–1965). The paper focuses on the question of to what extent Semper’s subjective aesthetic understandings developed by the 1930s, such as seeing chamber music at the top of the hierarchy of musical genres, her educational background, including piano studies and the experience of West European musical life, were expressed during the Soviet regime with its demands on re-evaluation of music according to the Marxist-Leninist ideology. Comparing Semper’s reviews written in the late 1930s and 1960s, enough common features emerge. The found similarities include the preference for chamber music/ensembles and symphony concerts as well as the focus on the performance aspect, interest in historical issues and the observation of the long-term development of the collective/artist. Also, the attitude towards contemporary music is generally supportive and favourable. As a difference, one can notice the absence of stage works’ reviews in Semper’s Soviet-era writings and a stronger ideological message which is not emphasized but which Semper expressed when necessary in her attitudes, as well as the use of language and emphases. It can therefore be concluded that Aurora Semper’s subjectivity, which was strongly shaped by her studies in Europe (Germany, France) in the 1920s, broad mind and curiosity for knowledge, marriage to an intelligent and tolerant writer and politician Johannes Semper, music history teaching experience and a delicate character, became visible in the relatively free press of the independent Estonia in the 1930s and remained generally unchanged, despite the new socio-political context, in the much more rigid and ideologically controlled Soviet years.
Management of investment portfolios employing reinforcement learning
Authors: Santos Gustavo Carvalho , Garruti Daniel , Barboza Flavio , de Souza Kamyr Gomes , Domingos Jean Carlos , Veiga Antônio
Published: December 2023

Investors are presented with a multitude of options and markets for pursuing higher returns, a task that often proves complex and challenging. This study examines the effectiveness of reinforcement learning (RL) algorithms in optimizing investment portfolios, comparing their performance with traditional strategies and benchmarking against American and Brazilian indices. Additionally, it was explore the impact of incorporating commodity derivatives into portfolios and the associated transaction costs. The results indicate that the inclusion of derivatives can significantly enhance portfolio performance while reducing volatility, presenting an attractive opportunity for investors. RL techniques also demonstrate superior effectiveness in portfolio optimization, resulting in an average increase of 12% in returns without a commensurate increase in risk. Consequently, this research makes a substantial contribution to the field of finance. It not only sheds light on the application of RL but also provides valuable insights for academia. Furthermore, it challenges conventional notions of market efficiency and modern portfolio theory, offering practical implications. It suggests that data-driven investment management holds the potential to enhance efficiency, mitigate conflicts of interest, and reduce biased decision-making, thereby transforming the landscape of financial investment.
Sucrose-delaying flower color fading associated with delaying anthocyanin accumulation decrease in cut chrysanthemum
Authors: Liu Xiao-fen , Teng Ruping , Xiang Lili , Li Fang , Chen Kunsong
Published: December 2023

As fresh ornamental crops, vase life and post-harvested quality of cut flowers have attracted much attention. Flower color fading is the prominent defect in red and purple cut flowers, especially in cut chrysanthemum which have a relative long vase life. Here, the effect of sucrose on change in anthocyanin contents during the vase life of ‘Dante Purple’ cut chrysanthemum was studied. Results showed that 500 mM sucrose as holding solution could significantly delay the decrease in anthocyanin content and maintain the ornamental value for as long as 38 vase days. Moreover, the sucrose also increased the flower diameter, soluble sugar contents and total antioxidant capacity, while decreasing the malondialdehyde contents. Further studies suggested that the transcript levels of anthocyanin biosynthetic genes and transcription factors, CmMYB6 and CmMYB#7, had continuously decreased during the vase life. The changes in these genes expression patterns was retarded by the sucrose treatment, except for CmMYB#7 which is a repressor of anthocyanin biosynthesis gene expression. The decline in relative expression of CmMYB#7 was accelerated by sucrose. These results have supplied clues to study the mechanism whereby sucrose serves as a signal molecule to regulate anthocyanin biosynthesis.
Empirical study on visual attention characteristics of basketball players of different levels during free-throw shooting
Authors: Zhao Chunzhou , Li Sunnan , Zhao Xuetong
Published: December 2023

Background

Visual attention is very important in basketball shooting, which is a prerequisite for forming good muscle proprioception and improving the shooting rate. The ability of visual instant searching information in the process of free throw plays an important role in the mobilization of free throw percentage. The aim of this study is to explore the fixation characteristics of athletes at different levels in the process of free throw shooting and to provide scientific basis for improving the free throw training of basketball players.

Methods

A total of 20 expert basketball players, 20 general basketball players and 20 novice basketball players participated in the experiment. Participants in the three groups wore eye tracker to make free throws, and analyzed the difference of visual attention among the three groups.

Results

The expert group had fewer number of fixations on the front, bottom, top-right, and top-right areas of the basket than the general and novice groups. The expert group also had smaller saccadic amplitudes than the other two groups. In terms of fixation duration, the expert group had longer fixation duration on the front and top areas of the basket than the other two groups, while in the top-right and bottom-right areas, the expert group had shorter fixation durations. The pupil dilation of the expert group was larger than that of the other two groups.

Conclusion

During the free throw process, the expert group had a clear attentional focus, concentrated fixation points, efficient information search, and precise processing. Profound basketball knowledge, proficient skills, and accumulated experience are the foundation of visual efficient search and precise processing during free throw attempts, and they are also the prerequisite for ensuring a high free throw shooting percentage.
Quartet of Selves: Quinn’s Personal Identity
Authors: López Sebastián
Published: December 2023

The present article discusses the concept of personal identity in Paul Auster’s City of Glass by focusing on Daniel Quinn’s multiple “selves”. It questions the idea of the Cartesian self as an underlying and neverchanging structure because that notion is problematic to understand the quartet of selves that Daniel Quinn represents: “himself”, William Wilson, Max Work and Paul Auster. Instead, it takes into account Daniel Dennett’s idea that the self is a useful abstraction that helps to understand our cognitive states by means of a coherent narration, and Derek Parfit’s notion of successive selves. All these help to understand how Daniel Quinn’s personal identity is built in the novel.
Brain of Pooh: Winnie-the-Pooh and Non-Epistemic Wisdom
Authors: Muñoz María Paz
Published: December 2023

The present article studies A.A. Milne’s Winnie-the-Pooh and The House at Pooh Corner as adult intended books. Childhood has traditionally been perceived as a state we grow away from, however, these stories criticize this process under an epistemic debate. Milne has developed a fantasy that functions as a response to the inadequacies of the external world. The construction of knowledge and the stability of language are explored under the philosophies of Martin Heidegger ‘s Being on Time and Ludwig Wittgenstein’s On Certainty. Milne uses a ‘Bear of Very Little Brain’ to defend the position of the child, and motivate the reader into considering the losses of growing up in terms of the limitations this has on our understanding of the world.
Exploring the Challenges and Constraints Encountered by Mushroom Growers in Uttarakhand: A Comprehensive Study
Authors: Pipaliya Gayatri , Ansari M. A.
Published: December 2023

Mushroom cultivation has emerged as a promising and sustainable agricultural enterprise in many regions offering economic opportunities and nutritional benefits. Uttarakhand, a hilly state in Northern Himalayas of India, is known for its ecological diversity and rich biodiversity making it an ideal location for mushroom cultivation. This paper attempts to identify the challenges and constraints faced by mushroom growers in Uttarakhand, thereby shedding light on the unique circumstances that can influence the success of this industry in the region. The current investigation was conducted in four purposively chosen districts of Uttarakhand state renowned for their substantial mushroom production. Two blocks were purposefully selected from each district, resulting in a total of eight blocks chosen deliberately due to their high concentration of mushroom growers. Subsequently, two villages were randomly selected from each block, culminating in a total of sixteen villages and 280 respondents for the study. Employing the Garrett ranking technique to assess and rank the ten statements (constraints) gleaned through extensive literature review coupled with consultations with subject matter experts.  The study findings revealed that "pest and disease problem" was the most common constraint (Rank-1) faced by the mushroom growers highlighting its profound impact on mushroom cultivation. Following closely, "market accessibility" (Rank II) and "non-availability/delay of inputs" (Rank III) emerged as crucial factors that shape the mushroom cultivation landscape.  On the other end of the spectrum, the constraint of "lack of transport" (Rank X) was surprisingly identified as a comparatively lesser impediment. These rankings offer strategic insights into the essential aspects that necessitate targeted interventions and resource allocation within the realm of mushroom cultivation. The study reiterates the multifaceted advantages of mushroom cultivation while acknowledging the challenges that hinder its profitable and sustainable progression. The findings will be of immense significance to policymakers, agricultural development agencies and mushroom growers in the region as they provide valuable insights into the opportunities and constraints in promoting the sustainable mushroom cultivation in Uttarakhand.
Influence of Weather Parameters on the Incidence and Severity of Guava Scab Caused by Pestalotiopsis psidii (Pat.)
Authors: Sirisha M.  , Aswathanarayana D. S.  , Yenjerappa S. T.  , Gowdar S. B.  , Pampanna Y.  , Nidoni Udaykumar
Published: December 2023

Guava (Psidium guajava) is an important tropical fruit crop of India and is known as “apple of the tropics”. It is grown and utilized as an important fruit in tropical countries like India, Indonesia, Pakistan, Bangladesh and South America. Among the biotic and abiotic diseases of guava, guava infected by scab disease [Pestalotiopsis psidii (Pat.) Mordue] is an economically important and reported average yield losses in the range of 12-18%. An experiment was conducted during 2023 at Horticulture garden, Main Agricultural Research Station, University of Agricultural Sciences, Raichur during 2023 to understand the influence of various weather parameters on the guava scab disease development. The results revealed that, irrespective of the varieties, interaction among maximum temperature, minimum temperature, maximum relative humidity, minimum relative humidity, rainy days and rainfall showed significant positive correlation with guava scab disease. And the incidence and severity of guava scab was found to be 23.21, 56.00 (Allahabad Safed), 32.45, 68.50 (Lucknow 49) and 85.00, 74.51 (Arka Kiran) respectively.
Profile Distribution of Available Boron and Secondary Micro Nutrients in Rice-Groundnut Growing Soils of Jajpur District, Odisha, India
Authors: Dash Subhashis , Nayak Rabindra Kumar , Dash Asish Kumar , Pattnayak Sushanta Kumar , Mohanty Shraddha
Published: December 2023

An investigation was conducted to examine the distribution of available Boron secondary micro nutrients and the relationships between boron with soil properties and other nutrients in the rice-groundnut growing soils of Jajpur district, Odisha. The clay content increased downward without following any definite trend. Soil pH of surface horizons was acidic and increased downward to neutral range. EC ranged between 0.02 dSm-1 to 0.13 dSm-1. The soil organic carbon ranged from 0.17% to 0.63% with decreasing trend towards sub surface horizon. The exchangeable Ca, Mg and S content varied from 3.68 mg kg-1 to 6.76 mg kg-1, 0.82 cmole (p+) kg‑1 to 6.24 cmole (p+) kg-1 and 0.62 mg kg-1 to 14.19 mg kg-1 respectively. Ca and Mg increased with increasing depth, whereas S showed the reverse trend. The DTPA- Fe, Mn, Cu, Zn and B content of pedon soil ranged from 60.68 mg kg-1 to 312.08 mg kg-1, 6.48 mg kg-1 to 36.76 mg kg-1, 0.62 mg kg-1 to 4.15 mg kg-1, 0.42 mg kg-1 to 1.15 mg kg-1 and 0.05 mg kg-1 to 1.01 mg kg-1 respectively Fe, Mn and Zn increased from surface to sub surface but Cu and B showed the reverse trend. The availability of Boron is positively correlated with organic carbon, Exch. Mg, Fe, and Cu. Negatively correlated with pH, Exch. Ca, S, Mn, and Zn. Pedon soils were deficient with B, S, Zn and rich in Ca, Mg, Fe, Mn and Cu. Fe was in toxic level in table land zone of sukinda. The available B was found to be deficient throughout the district in up and medium land except in subsurface layers of low land. The availability of B is positively correlated with organic carbon, Exch. Mg, Fe and Cu factors but negatively correlated with pH, Exch. Ca, S, Mn, and Zn. In an agricultural district like Jajpur the key element B for rice-groundnut crop sequence should be applied to soil and leaf of rice, groundnut, and other crops grown in the district.
Cluster Head Selection and Secured Routing Using Glowworm Swarm Algorithm and Hybrid Security Algorithm for Over IoT-WSNs
Authors: M. Prakash , A. Prakash
Published: December 2023

WSNs (Wireless Sensor Networks) have received a lot of attention in a number of industries due to its self-configurability, simplicity in maintenance, and scaling capacities. WSN is configured with extra nodes in order to transport data around the network. The usual characteristics of sensor networks are low bandwidth, low energy, constrained power supply, and little memory space, which makes security particularly difficult in these networks. CH (Cluster heads) in a cluster experience heavier traffic loads than other cluster nodes. This results in the hotspot problems. Therefore, in a cluster-oriented routing scheme, picking the right CH is crucial. The two-level security is recommended in this research to safeguard data transmission via the WSN. A novel CH selection methodology is presented in order to increase the network's lifespan and energy effectiveness. This work also combines the fruit fly algorithm (FGF) with the GSA (firefly swarm algorithm) based on fitness to choose the optimal CH. To defend the network from assaults, it employs a hybrid security method that combines the Diffie-Hellman key exchange mechanism and the ECC (elliptic curve cryptography) algorithm. The suggested GSA-HSA protocol consistently produces good performance results in terms of MSR (Message Success Rate), E2E (End-to-End) Latency, NT (Network Throughput), and network throughput. average AEE (energy efficiency). The suggested approach outperforms all prior research by giving the wireless sensor network combination security, optimised coverage, and energy savings.
Frontmatter (Front Cover, Editorial Team, Indexing, and Table of Contents)
Authors: Istadi Istadi
Published: December 2023

Frontmatter (Front Cover, Editorial Team, Indexing, and Table of Contents)
Pivotal Trial Demographic Representation and Clinical Development Times for Oncology Therapeutics
Authors: Wong Alissa K. , Miller Jennifer E. , Mooghali Maryam , Ramachandran Reshma , Ross Joseph S. , Wallach Joshua D.
Published: December 2023

This study evaluates whether FDA-approved novel cancer therapeutics supported by pivotal trials with adequate representation of minoritized groups were associated with slower clinical development times than those with inadequate representation.
Rheumatoid Arthritis Care Experiences of Black People Living in Canada: A Qualitative Study to Inform Health Service Improvements
Authors: Thomas Megan , Barnabe Cheryl , Kleissen Tessa , Lacaille Diane , Hazlewood Glen , Fifi‐Mah Aurore , Hassen Nejat , Henry Richard , Kuluva Michael , English Kelly , Koehn Cheryl , Lane Therese , Johnson Nicole
Published: December 2023

Objective

To understand experiences related to rheumatoid arthritis (RA) care and propose service‐level strategies to reduce and mitigate inequities for Black people living in Canada.

Methods

Purposive and respondent driven sampling was used to recruit participants for qualitative interviews to explore population factors relevant to RA care and challenges and facilitators for access to health care services, medications, and enacting preferred treatment plans. Thematic analysis was conducted using the Braun and Clarke method with inductive and deductive coding and critical race theory guiding analysis.

Results

Six women and two men with RA, and two women health care professionals, expressed how their racial identity contributed to their understanding of RA, preferences for treatment, and outcome goals. Health care access was influenced by financial limitations and racism, by exclusion, and discrimination, and also by cultural norms in seeking health care and awareness about RA within the Black community. Participants experienced health system fragmentation and were not connected to ancillary supports. Treatment decision‐making was influenced by the legacy of oppression and medical experimentation on Black people and the predominance of biomedical approaches emphasized by health care providers. Holistic and cultural approaches, provided in safe, trauma‐informed care environments, with flexibility in service models, are desired. Partnerships between arthritis care services and Black community organizations are proposed to promote community awareness and knowledge about arthritis and provide support mechanisms for patients within their community.

Conclusion

Our study highlights unique considerations based on race and ethnicity and provides suggestions for arthritis care to mitigate inequities for Black people living with arthritis.
The Effect of Cycling Process Between −196 and 120 °C on Microstructure and Properties of Additively Manufactured 7050 Al Alloy
Authors: Liu Jiabin , Shao Bin , Su Heng , Zong Yingying , Shan Debin
Published: December 2023

Wire arc additively manufactured (WAAM) aluminum alloys have been applied in the aerospace field. However, there was a lack of research on the stability of additive components under high‐ and low‐temperature cycling conditions in space. This study focuses on the evolution of microstructure, defects, and mechanical properties of WAAM 7050 aluminum alloy during high‐ and low‐temperature cycling from −196 to 120 °C. The number of cycles is 1, 2, 5, and 10, and one cycle time is 100 min. The results show that the number of η nanophases increase significantly after 5 cycles, and the η′ phases precipitate after 10 cycles. In defects, the porosity increases to 4 times of the as‐deposited state after 10 cycles, and the mean equivalent diameter of micropores is stabilized at 0.77 μm. In mechanical properties, the ultimate tensile strength decreases gradually with the increase of cycle times, and the hardness reaches the maximum of 143.2 HV after 5 cycles. The number of micropores increases after 10 cycles, and micropores have a weak effect on the failure mechanism. Cracks tend to sprout and expand along the eutectic phases and pores in the equiaxial grain zones, and equiaxial grain zones are the weak areas when they break.
Efficient Perovskite Light‐Emitting Diodes Enabled by Nickel Acetate Interlayer
Authors: Zhang Qin , Zhao Yaping , Qin Xiangqian , Li Mingliang , Sun Haoran , Zhou Peng , Feng Wenjing , Li Yuqing , Lu Jianxun , Lin Kebin , Shi Lei , Wei Zhanhua
Published: December 2023

Metal halide perovskite light‐emitting diodes (Pero‐LEDs) have gained great attention due to their promising applications in lighting and displays. However, in their conventional three‐layered sandwich structure, some undeserved carrier behaviors, such as imbalanced carrier injection, severe carrier loss, and unstable recombination zone, limit the device's performance. Herein, a four‐layered design by inserting a nickel acetate (Ni(OAc)2) interlayer between the emitter and hole‐transport layer(HTL) to manage carrier behavior and improve radiative recombination efficiency is proposed. Specifically, the Ni(OAc)2 interlayer is poorly conductive and can partially block the hole injection, making the hole‐electron injection more balanced. And the Ni(OAc)2 interlayer avoids the direct contact between the perovskite emitter and hole transporter, reducing the interfacial carrier quenching. Moreover, the Ni(OAc)2 interlayer inhibits the electron‐migrated recombination at the hole transporter interface, confining the carrier recombination zone in the emitter layer. As a result, the corresponding Pero‐LEDs achieve a maximum external quantum efficiency (EQEmax) of 24.6% with good reproducibility, showing an average EQEmax of over 20%.
Naphthodithiophene Diimide (NDTI)‐Based Cathode Interlayer Material Enables 19% Efficiency Binary Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Wang Zongtao , Wang Helin , Du Mengzheng , Lai Xue , He Feng , Guo Qing , Guo Qiang , Tang Ailing , Sun Xiangnan , Zhou Erjun
Published: December 2023

A fused naphthodithiophene diimide (NDTI) derivative is first used as cathode interlayer materials (CIMs) in organic solar cells, by introducing two dimethylamine‐functionalized fluorenes on both sides, namely NDTI1. Meanwhile, two non‐fused naphthalene diimide (NDI) derivatives are synthesized as the control CIMs to validate the design strategy of fused NDI. All three CIMs show high thermal stability, robust adhesion, and strong electrode modification capability. Compared with two NDI‐based materials, NDTI1 possesses excellent film‐forming capacity and strong crystallinity, simultaneously. Besides, NDTI1 presents a strong self‐doping effect and distinct intermolecular interaction with non‐fullerene acceptors. As expected, the NDTI1‐based OSCs achieve a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 18.02% using the PM6:Y6 active layer and a champion PCE of 19.01% employing the active layer PM6:L8‐BO, which is attributed to improve charge transport and extraction, and suppressive charge recombination. More importantly, NDTI1 retains 91% of the optimal PCE when the film thickness increases from 7 to 20 nm. Furthermore, NDTI1 also exhibits satisfactory universality for different active layer materials and excellent device stability.
Design of Quantum Dot Color Convertors for Inkjet‐Printed Optoelectronic Devices: Violet‐Converted Full Color Mini‐LED
Authors: Lin Chen‐Te , Zhuan Yi‐long , Jung Nian‐Ting , Hoang Minh‐Son , Chen Hsueh‐Shih
Published: December 2023

This study presents a strategy of design and development of inkjet‐printable and UV‐curable quantum dot (QD) polymer‐based inks and color conversion (CC) film for use in optoelectronic devices. At first, the preparation of a QD ink is focused on two key aspects, that are QD chemical compatibility and ink printability. In the hybrid organic–inorganic polymer/QDs system, it must be formulated to a well‐dispersed ink, in which a dispersant additive without negative effect on QDs is introduced to enhance the QD suspension. As the optical density of final dried QD film is one of the most critical concerns in color conversion, QD concentration should be as high as possible in the ink, which increases the ink viscosity. Consequently, a trade‐off between QD concentration and the ink viscosity associated with the ink‐jetting temperature is considered to ensure the ink printability. Finally, the designed QD ink is printed as color conversion film on a mini‐LED panel composed of two violet mini‐chips to produce red and green emissions, while blue emission directly comes from a blue mini‐chip. The final conversion efficiency of QDCC on mini‐LED panel are between 35% and 45%, showing the promising applications in optoelectronic devices.
Aluminum Surface Defect Detection Algorithm Based on Improved YOLOv5
Authors: Liang Jianan , Kong Ruiling , Ma Rong , Zhang Jinhua , Bian Xingrui
Published: December 2023

Industrial defect detection is an important aspect of object detection. Aluminum is an indispensable material in the industrial field, but the complexity of surface defects on aluminum makes detection challenging. Therefore, the paper proposes the YOLOv5‐ESP algorithm based on the YOLOv5 algorithm. First, the problem of poor signal quality and small data samples is addressed through data enhancement. Second, the YOLOv5‐ESP incorporates the Efficient Channel Attention‐C3 (ECA‐C3) module in the Backbone structure to enhance attention toward defect regions. The Spatial Pooling Pyramid Cross‐Stage Partial Convolution (SPPCSPC) module is introduced to extract multi‐scale features of defects. The Poly‐scale Convolution (PSConv) is applied at the end of the Neck structure to resolve the problem of imprecise localization resulting from significant differences in the scale of defect features. Soft Non‐Maximum Suppression (Soft‐NMS) is utilized in the Head structure to optimize the prediction boxes. Experimental results show that the proposed YOLOv5‐ESP achieves a mean Average Precision (mAP) value of 94%, outperforming YOLOv5 and other classical algorithms. Furthermore, it maintains an average recognition time of 0.019 s per image, which meets the requirements of accuracy and real‐time performance in the industry.
Hydrogenation of Alkynes and Olefins Catalyzed by Quaternary Ammonium Salts
Authors: Guo Qi , Shen Guoli , Lu Guangfu , Qian Jinyi , Que Qitao , Li Jiuling , Guo Yafei , Fan Baomin
Published: December 2023

Catalytic hydrogenation of unsaturated hydrocarbons to alkenes and alkanes using molecular hydrogen is one of the most fundamental transformations in organic synthesis. While methodologies involving transition metals as catalysts in homogeneous and heterogeneous processes have been well developed, metal‐free catalytic hydrogenation offers an ideal approach for future chemistry. Herein, the common and inexpensive quaternary ammonium salts are first introduced as catalysts in the catalytic hydrogenation system for the transformations from alkynes or olefins into the corresponding olefins or alkanes. Interestingly, the hydrogenation process of alkynes can be controlled to selectively produce alkenes or alkanes under different conditions. Moreover, the possible mechanism is discussed in new insights into the catalytic behavior of quaternary ammonium salts.
Interactive Multi‐Stage Robotic Positioner for Intra‐Operative MRI‐Guided Stereotactic Neurosurgery
Authors: He Zhuoliang , Dai Jing , Ho Justin Di‐Lang , Tong Hon‐Sing , Wang Xiaomei , Fang Ge , Liang Liyuan , Cheung Chim‐Lee , Guo Ziyan , Chang Hing‐Chiu , Iordachita Iulian , Taylor Russell H. , Poon Wai‐Sang , Chan Danny Tat‐Ming , Kwok Ka‐Wai
Published: December 2023

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) demonstrates clear advantages over other imaging modalities in neurosurgery with its ability to delineate critical neurovascular structures and cancerous tissue in high‐resolution 3D anatomical roadmaps. However, its application has been limited to interventions performed based on static pre/post‐operative imaging, where errors accrue from stereotactic frame setup, image registration, and brain shift. To leverage the powerful intra‐operative functions of MRI, e.g., instrument tracking, monitoring of physiological changes and tissue temperature in MRI‐guided bilateral stereotactic neurosurgery, a multi‐stage robotic positioner is proposed. The system positions cannula/needle instruments using a lightweight (203 g) and compact (Ø97 × 81 mm) skull‐mounted structure that fits within most standard imaging head coils. With optimized design in soft robotics, the system operates in two stages: i) manual coarse adjustment performed interactively by the surgeon (workspace of ±30°), ii) automatic fine adjustment with precise (<0.2° orientation error), responsive (1.4 Hz bandwidth), and high‐resolution (0.058°) soft robotic positioning. Orientation locking provides sufficient transmission stiffness (4.07 N/mm) for instrument advancement. The system's clinical workflow and accuracy is validated with lab‐based (<0.8 mm) and MRI‐based testing on skull phantoms (<1.7 mm) and a cadaver subject (<2.2 mm). Custom‐made wireless omni‐directional tracking markers facilitated robot registration under MRI.
Revealing Two Distinct Formation Pathways of 2D Wurtzite‐CdSe Nanocrystals Using In Situ X‐Ray Scattering
Authors: Lee Hyo Cheol , Bootharaju Megalamane S. , Lee Kyunghoon , Chang Hogeun , Kim Seo Young , Ahn Eonhyoung , Li Shi , Kim Byung Hyo , Ahn Hyungju , Hyeon Taeghwan , Yang Jiwoong
Published: December 2023

Understanding the mechanism underlying the formation of quantum‐sized semiconductor nanocrystals is crucial for controlling their synthesis for a wide array of applications. However, most studies of 2D CdSe nanocrystals have relied predominantly on ex situ analyses, obscuring key intermediate stages and raising fundamental questions regarding their lateral shapes. Herein, the formation pathways of two distinct quantum‐sized 2D wurtzite‐CdSe nanocrystals — nanoribbons and nanosheets — by employing a comprehensive approach, combining in situ small‐angle X‐ray scattering techniques with various ex situ characterization methods is studied. Although both nanostructures share the same thickness of ≈1.4 nm, they display contrasting lateral dimensions. The findings reveal the pivotal role of Se precursor reactivity in determining two distinct synthesis pathways. Specifically, highly reactive precursors promote the formation of the nanocluster‐lamellar assemblies, leading to the synthesis of 2D nanoribbons with elongated shapes. In contrast, mild precursors produce nanosheets from a tiny seed of 2D nuclei, and the lateral growth is regulated by chloride ions, rather than relying on nanocluster‐lamellar assemblies or Cd(halide)2–alkylamine templates, resulting in 2D nanocrystals with relatively shorter lengths. These findings significantly advance the understanding of the growth mechanism governing quantum‐sized 2D semiconductor nanocrystals and offer valuable guidelines for their rational synthesis.
Determination of Enantiomeric Excess by Optofluidic Microlaser near Exceptional Point
Authors: Xu Zhiyang , Yan Yinzhou , Wang Xingyuan , Wang Xiaolei , Zhou Zhixiang , Yang Xi , Zhai Tianrui
Published: December 2023

Enantiomeric excess (ee) is an essential indicator of chiral drug purification in the pharmaceutical industry. However, to date the ee determination of unknown concentration enantiomers generally involves two separate techniques for chirality and concentration measurement. Here, a whispering‐gallery mode (WGM) based optofluidic microlaser near exceptional point to achieve the ee determination under unknown concentration with a single technique is proposed. Exceptional point induces the unidirectional WGM lasing, providing the optofluidic microlaser with the novel capability to measure chirality by polarization, in addition to wavelength‐based concentration detection. The dual‐parameters detection of optofluidic microlaser empowers it to achieve ee determination of various unknown enantiomers without additional concentration measurements, a feat that is challenging to accomplish with other methods. Featuring the sensitivity enhancement and miniature structure of the WGM sensors, the obtained chiroptical response of the present approach is ≈30‐fold higher than that of the conventional optical rotation‐based polarimeter, and the reagent consumption is reduced by three orders of magnitude.
Local Ancestry at the Major Histocompatibility Complex Region is Not a Major Contributor to Disease Heterogeneity in a Multiethnic Lupus Cohort
Authors: Solomon Olivia , Lanata Cristina M. , Adams Cameron , Nititham Joanne , Taylor Kimberly E. , Chung Sharon A. , Yazdany Jinoos , Dall'Era Maria , Pons‐Estel Bernado A. , Tusié‐Luna Teresa , Tsao Betty , Morand Eric , Alarcón‐Riquelme Marta E. , Barcellos Lisa F. , Criswell Lindsey A.
Published: December 2023

Objective

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease resulting in debilitating clinical manifestations that vary in severity by race and ethnicity with a disproportionate burden in African American, Mestizo, and Asian populations compared with populations of European descent. Differences in global and local genetic ancestry may shed light on the underlying mechanisms contributing to these disparities, including increased prevalence of lupus nephritis, younger age of symptom onset, and presence of autoantibodies.

Methods

A total of 1,139 European, African American, and Mestizos patients with SLE were genotyped using the Affymetrix LAT1 World array. Global ancestry proportions were estimated using ADMIXTURE, and local ancestry was estimated using RFMIXv2.0. We investigated associations between lupus nephritis, age at onset, and autoantibody status with both global and local ancestry proportions within the Major Histocompatibility Complex region.

Results

Our results showed small effect sizes that did not meet the threshold for statistical significance for global or local ancestry proportions in either African American or Mestizo patients with SLE who presented with the clinical manifestations of interest compared with those who did not.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that local genetic ancestry within the Major Histocompatibility Complex region is not a major contributor to these SLE manifestations among patients with SLE from admixed populations.
A new method for clustered survival data: Estimation of treatment effect heterogeneity and variable selection
Authors: Hu Liangyuan
Published: December 2023

We recently developed a new method random‐intercept accelerated failure time model with Bayesian additive regression trees (riAFT‐BART) to draw causal inferences about population treatment effect on patient survival from clustered and censored survival data while accounting for the multilevel data structure. The practical utility of this method goes beyond the estimation of population average treatment effect. In this work, we exposit how riAFT‐BART can be used to solve two important statistical questions with clustered survival data: estimating the treatment effect heterogeneity and variable selection. Leveraging the likelihood‐based machine learning, we describe a way in which we can draw posterior samples of the individual survival treatment effect from riAFT‐BART model runs, and use the drawn posterior samples to perform an exploratory treatment effect heterogeneity analysis to identify subpopulations who may experience differential treatment effects than population average effects. There is sparse literature on methods for variable selection among clustered and censored survival data, particularly ones using flexible modeling techniques. We propose a permutation‐based approach using the predictor's variable inclusion proportion supplied by the riAFT‐BART model for variable selection. To address the missing data issue frequently encountered in health databases, we propose a strategy to combine bootstrap imputation and riAFT‐BART for variable selection among incomplete clustered survival data. We conduct an expansive simulation study to examine the practical operating characteristics of our proposed methods, and provide empirical evidence that our proposed methods perform better than several existing methods across a wide range of data scenarios. Finally, we demonstrate the methods via a case study of predictors for in‐hospital mortality among severe COVID‐19 patients and estimating the heterogeneous treatment effects of three COVID‐specific medications. The methods developed in this work are readily available in the package .
Theoretical insights into the AIE mechanism of assembles
Authors: Yang Xintong , Zheng Xiaoyan
Published: December 2023

Fluorophores in aggregated state are commonly used in optoelectronic devices, and the molecular packing are complex and diverse, including crystal, amorphous aggregate in solution, thin film, ordered supramolecular assemblies, and highly ordered cell membrane. In addition, the luminous behavior of the aggregated state can be precisely regulated by external stimuli such as hydrostatic pressure. In this review, we summarize the representative progress on the application of multiscale modeling protocol to illustrate the underlying mechanism of fluorescent emission of organic dyes in different assembles. The aim is to obtain the molecular packing in different forms of assembles and then to understand their underlying mechanism of stimuli‐responsive fluorescent behavior at the molecular level. This is essential for the rational design, synthesis, and efficient application of fluorescent dyes.
Impact of primary organ site of involvement by peripheral T‐cell lymphoma not otherwise specified on survival
Authors: Davis Olivia , Truong Derek , Day Silas , Pandey Manu , Ibrahimi Sami , Khawandanah Mohamad , Holter‐Chakrabarty Jennifer , Asch Adam , Al‐Juhaishi Taha
Published: December 2023

Introduction

Peripheral T‐cell lymphoma, not otherwise specified (PTCL‐NOS) is a rare, highly heterogeneous group of mature T‐cell neoplasms that historically has been associated with poor outcomes. We sought to investigate the influence of primary disease site on PTCL‐NOS outcomes using a large national cancer registry.

Methods

Baseline clinical and demographic data including primary organ of involvement and Ann Arbor disease stage were extracted from the SEER database. Patients were grouped into nine organ system groups and compared to nodal disease acting as a control. Cox regression models were utilized for adjusted survival analyses.

Results

A total of 3095 patients were identified in the SEER database and included in the final analysis. The median age was 61 and a majority of patients were male (60%) and identified as non‐Hispanic white (68%). A plurality of patients had stage IV disease (32%). Lymph nodes and spleen were the most common primary disease sites (67%), while central nervous system was the least common (1%). Patients with early‐stage PTCL‐NOS of the gastrointestinal/genitourinary systems had worse overall survival [HR = 1.97 (1.50–2.59); p < 0.001] and lymphoma‐specific survival [HR = 1.74 (1.26–2.40); p < 0.001] which was statistically significant even after adjusting for other variables. Early‐stage PTCL‐NOS of the central nervous system also had worse overall survival [HR = 1.90 (1.11–3.27); p = 0.020] and lymphoma‐specific survival [HR = 2.11 (1.17–3.80); p = 0.013]. Early‐stage PTCL‐NOS of the skin had better overall survival [HR = 0.54 (0.42–0.68); p < 0.001] and lymphoma‐specific survival [HR = 0.388 (0.28–0.53); p < 0.001] which was statistically significant even after adjustments.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest an association between primary organ involved by PTCL‐NOS and both overall and lymphoma‐specific survival even after adjusting for common variables. These results warrant validation in future prospective studies.
Can augmented reality impact your self‐perceptions? The malleability of the self and brand relationships in augmented reality try‐on services
Authors: Kim Terry Haekyung , Im Hyunjoo
Published: December 2023

Brands and retailers are eager to utilize augmented reality (AR) technology to engage consumers and develop favorable relationships with them. However, there is a need for a theoretical understanding of the assumed AR effect. This study aims to identify an underlying mechanism of the AR (vs. typical online website) effects by focusing on consumers' perception of malleable self‐concept, which refers to the changeable nature of the self‐concept. The findings of two experiments demonstrate that AR, when compared to a typical online website without AR function, increases self‐brand connection through enhanced imagery and beliefs on the malleability of the self. The improved self‐brand connection further heightens marketing outcomes, such as revisit intention to the website. The AR effect is qualified by consumers' virtual self‐discrepancy, suggesting an important implication for brand management. This research offers new insights into the role of AR interface in consumer‐brand relationships and highlights the impact of AR on consumer's self‐perception. Innovative marketers and brands are likely to benefit from this study in improving their relationship with consumers by utilizing emerging digital retail environments.
Characterization of the interactions between Fulvic acid and Trypsin with Spectroscopic and Molecular Docking technology
Authors: Sun Jisheng , Wang Xiaoxia , Nie Zhihua , Ma Litong , Sai Huazheng , Cheng Jianguo , Liu Yunying , Duan Jianguo
Published: December 2023

The interaction mechanism between trypsin and fulvic acid was analyzed by multispectral method and molecular docking simulation. The fluorescence spectra showed that fulvic acid induced static quenching of trypsin. The validity of this conclusion was further substantiated through the computation of the binding constants. The thermodynamic parameters show that the reaction is mainly controlled by van der Waals force and hydrogen bond force, and the reaction is spontaneous. In addition, based on the obtained binding distance, there may be a non‐radiative energy transfer between the two. The ultraviolet spectrum showed that fulvic acid could shift the absorption peak of trypsin, indicating that fulvic acid had an effect on the secondary structure of trypsin. According to the synchronous fluorescence spectrum results, fulvic acid primarily interacts with tryptophan residues in trypsin and induces alterations in their microenvironment. Three‐dimensional fluorescence spectrum and circular dichroism further proves this conclusion. The molecular docking simulation reveals that the interaction between the two groups primarily arises from hydrogen bonding and van der Waals forces. The findings suggest that FA has the ability to induce conformational changes in trypsin‘s secondary structure.
In Silico Exploration of Potential Phytoconstituents from the Bark Extract of Boswellia serrata for Hemorrhoidal Disease: Molecular Docking and Molecular Dynamics Analysis**
Authors: Rao Harshawardhan , Maurya Aryan , Kumar Raidas Hemant , Koram Bholeshankar , Kumar Goswami Rohit , Singh Rajpoot Vivek , Khute Sulekha , Subash Paranthaman , Chandra Mandal Subhash , Saha Subham , Rao Kareti Srinivasa
Published: December 2023

Boswellia serrata Roxb. Ex Colebr is a popular medicinal plant used traditionally in herbal medicinal preparations to treat a variety of diseases. The purpose of the present investigation was to investigate the anti‐hemorrhoidal property of the bark extract of B. serrata (BS). For this, the sequential Soxhlet extraction method was carried out by using different solvents such as hexane, chloroform, and methanol. After the extraction, the obtained dry extracts were tested for quantitative determinations such as total alkaloid content (TAC), total flavonoid content (TFC), total phenol content (TPC), and total tannin content (TTC) for all the extracts. Moreover, in vitro antioxidant activity was measured using 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical scavenging activity and scavenging activity against 2,2′‐azino‐bis(3‐ethylbenzothiazoline‐6‐sulfonic acid (ABTS). Methanolic bark extract showed the highest TPC (67.10±1.83), TFC (372.73±4.45), TAC (9.732±1.06), and TTC (48.932±1.82), as well as the antioxidant assays DPPH (IC50=9.88 μg/ml) and ABTS (IC50=15.09 μg/ml). In this study, both LC–MS and GC–MS were performed to identify the chemical composition of all the extracts. Consequently, 19 compounds were identified by GC–MS and 27 compounds were identified by LC–MS analysis. The identified phytoconstituent(s) that could potentially interact with the target protein cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) (PDB: 4RRW) using molecular dynamics simulation and in silico docking were studied. Three compounds that have passed in drug‐likeness and ADME‐Tox properties are having more docking score than the standard. In this study, camptothecin, justicidin B, and taxiphyllin are identified as potential lead compounds with anti‐hemorrhoidal properties and may be helpful in the process of drug development and discovery of novel drugs. Hence, these results demonstrate that BS is a good source of pharmacologically active components with potential applications against hemorrhoidal disease.