bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multicenter comparative study on the usefulness of the optimal electrosurgical unit setting in endoscopic papillectomy for ampullary neoplasms (with video)
Authors: Yamamoto Kenjiro , Itoi Takao , Katanuma Akio , Ishii Tatsuya , Iwasaki Eisuke , Kawasaki Shintaro , Tsuchiya Takayoshi , Tonozuka Ryosuke , Nagai Kazumasa , Mukai Shuntaro
Published: April 2024

Background

Endoscopic papillectomy (EP) is less invasive than surgery but procedure‐related adverse events (AEs) still frequently occur. This study compared the benefits of EP using a new optimal endoCUT setting on the VIO (Erbe) electrosurgical unit (VIO‐EP) with those using the conventional electrosurgical unit setting (ICC‐EP, Erbe).

Methods

This multicenter, retrospective, comparative cohort study included 57 patients who underwent VIO‐EP and 91 who underwent ICC‐EP. The primary outcome was occurrence of EP‐related AEs. Secondary outcomes were pathological findings (the resection margins, the R0 resection, and residual lesions).

Results

Pancreatitis tended to be less common in the VIO‐EP group (5.3% vs. 9.9%, p = .248). Evaluation of computed tomography images showed that pancreatitis was confined to the pancreatic head in 77.8% of cases in the ICC‐EP group and in 33.3% of those in the VIO‐EP group. After exclusion of cases of delayed bleeding, pancreatitis tended to be less common in the VIO‐EP group; this finding was not statistically significant (2.3% vs. 8.2%, p = .184). In pathological findings, residual lesions were significantly less common in the VIO‐EP group.

Conclusions

The risks of pancreatitis and residual lesions after EP may be lower when the VIO electrosurgical unit is used with the optimal setting.
Quantitative Time‐of‐Flight Head Magnetic Resonance Angiography of Cerebrovascular Disease
Authors: Koktzoglou Ioannis , Ozturk Onural , Walker Matthew T. , Ankenbrandt William J. , Ong Archie L. , Ares William J. , Gil Fulvio R. , Bulwa Zachary B. , Edelman Robert R.
Published: April 2024

Background

Standard Cartesian time‐of‐flight (TOF) head magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) is routinely used to evaluate the intracranial arteries, but does not provide quantitative hemodynamic information that is useful for patient risk stratification as well as for monitoring treatment and tracking changes in blood flow over time. Quantitative TOF (qTOF) MRA represents a new and efficient method for simultaneous evaluating the intracranial arteries and quantifying blood flow velocity, but it has not yet been evaluated in patients with cerebrovascular disease.

Purpose

To evaluate qTOF for simultaneously evaluating the intracranial arteries and quantifying intracranial blood flow velocity in patients with cerebrovascular disease, without the need for a phase contrast (PC) scan.

Study Type

Prospective.

Subjects

Twenty‐four patients (18 female, 6 male) with cerebrovascular disease.

Field Strength/Sequences

Head MRA at 3 T using gradient‐echo 3D qTOF, standard Cartesian TOF, and PC protocols.

Assessment

Three independent readers assessed arterial image quality using a 4‐point scale (1: non‐diagnostic, 4: excellent) and artifact presence. Total and component flow velocities obtained with qTOF and PC were measured.

Statistical Tests

Wilcoxon signed‐rank tests, Gwet's AC2, intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) for absolute agreement, Bland–Altman analyses, tests of equal proportions. P values <0.05 were considered statistically significant.

Results

Averaged across readers and compared to standard Cartesian TOF, qTOF significantly improved overall arterial image quality (3.8 ± 0.2 vs. 3.6 ± 0.5), image quality at locations of pathology (3.7 ± 0.5 vs. 3.4 ± 0.7), and increased the proportion of evaluations rated without artifacts (63.9% [46/72] vs. 37.5% [27/72]). qTOF significantly agreed with PC for total flow velocity (ICC = 0.71) and component flow velocity (ICC = 0.89).

Data Conclusion

qTOF angiography of the head matched or improved upon the image quality of standard Cartesian TOF, reduced image artifacts, and provided quantitative hemodynamic data, without the need for a PC scan.

Evidence Level

2

Technical Efficacy

Stage 2
Vergence‐accommodation conflict increases time to focus in augmented reality
Authors: Spiegel Daniel P. , Erkelens Ian M.
Published: April 2024

Vergence‐accommodation conflicts (VAC) occur in near‐eye displays when the binocular disparity of the 3D rendered content (vergence) does not match the display focal distance (accommodation). VAC has been shown to reduce perceptual image quality, cognitive performance, and oculomotor coordination. In this study, we aimed to investigate the impact of VAC on visual performance in augmented reality (AR). Specifically, we quantified the impact of AR VAC on the ‘Time to Focus’ (TTF); when the user switches focus between real‐world content and world‐locked AR‐rendered content. Our results show that TTF increases exponentially with VAC. The increase is more pronounced at closer vergence distances in displays with a focal distance of 1 D or longer. Finally, we showed that VAC may have a differential effect across age groups; specifically, older users may be affected more in closer focal and longer vergence distances.
Rapid Compensation for Noisy Voluntary Movements in Adults with Primary Tic Disorders
Authors: Kurvits Lille , Stenner Max‐Philipp , Guo Siqi , Neumann Wolf‐Julian , Haggard Patrick , Ganos Christos
Published: April 2024

Background

It has been proposed that tics and premonitory urges in primary tic disorders (PTD), like Tourette syndrome, are a manifestation of sensorimotor noise. However, patients with tics show no obvious movement imprecision in everyday life. One reason could be that patients have strategies to compensate for noise that disrupts performance (ie, noise that is task‐relevant).

Objectives

Our goal was to unmask effects of elevated sensorimotor noise on the variability of voluntary movements in patients with PTD.

Methods

We tested 30 adult patients with PTD (23 male) and 30 matched controls in a reaching task designed to unmask latent noise. Subjects reached to targets whose shape allowed for variability either in movement direction or extent. This enabled us to decompose variability into task‐relevant versus less task‐relevant components, where the latter should be less affected by compensatory strategies than the former. In alternating blocks, the task‐relevant target dimension switched, allowing us to explore the temporal dynamics with which participants adjusted movement variability to changes in task demands.

Results

Both groups accurately reached to targets, and adjusted movement precision based on target shape. However, when task‐relevant dimensions of the target changed, patients initially produced movements that were more variable than controls, before regaining precision after several reaches. This effect persisted across repeated changes in the task‐relevant dimension across the experiment, and therefore did not reflect an effect of novelty, or differences in learning.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that patients with PTD generate noisier voluntary movements compared with controls, but rapidly compensate according to current task demands. © 2024 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
White Matter Microstructural Underpinnings of Mild Behavioral Impairment in Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Monchi Oury , Pinilla‐Monsalve Gabriel D. , Almgren Hannes , Ghahremani Maryam , Kibreab Mekale , Maarouf Nadia , Kathol Iris , Boré Arnaud , Rheault François , Descoteaux Maxime , Ismail Zahinoor
Published: April 2024

Background

Patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) experience changes in behavior, personality, and cognition that can manifest even in the initial stages of the disease. Previous studies have suggested that mild behavioral impairment (MBI) should be considered an early marker of cognitive decline. However, the precise neurostructural underpinnings of MBI in early‐ to mid‐stage PD remain poorly understood.

Objective

The aim was to explore the changes in white matter microstructure linked to MBI and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) in early‐ to mid‐stage PD using diffusion magnetic resonance imaging (dMRI).

Methods

A total of 91 PD patients and 36 healthy participants were recruited and underwent anatomical MRI and dMRI, a comprehensive neuropsychological battery, and the completion of the Mild Behavioral Impairment‐Checklist. Metrics of white matter integrity included tissue fractional anisotropy (FAt) and radial diffusivity (RDt), free water (FW), and fixel‐based apparent fiber density (AFD).

Results

The connection between the left amygdala and the putamen was disrupted when comparing PD patients with MBI (PD‐MBI) to PD‐non‐MBI, as evidenced by increased RDt (η2 = 0.09, P = 0.004) and both decreased AFD (η2 = 0.05, P = 0.048) and FAt (η2 = 0.12, P = 0.014). Compared to controls, PD patients with both MBI and MCI demonstrated increased FW for the connection between the left orbitofrontal gyrus (OrG) and the hippocampus (η2 = 0.22, P = 0.008), augmented RDt between the right OrG and the amygdala (η2 = 0.14, P = 0.008), and increased RDt (η2 = 0.25, P = 0.028) with decreased AFD (η2 = 0.10, P = 0.046) between the right OrG and the caudate nucleus.

Conclusion

MBI is associated with abnormal microstructure of connections involving the orbitofrontal cortex, putamen, and amygdala. To our knowledge, this is the first assessment of the white matter microstructure in PD‐MBI using dMRI. © 2024 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Protective Effect of Egg Yolk Lipids against Dextran Sulfate Sodium‐Induced Colitis: The Key Role of Gut Microbiota and Short‐Chain Fatty Acids
Authors: Xiao Nanhai , He Wen , Chen Shuping , Yao Yao , Wu Na , Xu Mingsheng , Du Huaying , Zhao Yan , Tu Yonggang
Published: April 2024

Egg yolk lipids significantly alleviate dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)‐induced colitis by inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome, reversing gut microbiota dysbiosis, and increasing short chain fatty acids (SCFAs) concentrations. However, the role of gut microbiota and the relationship between SCFAs and NLRP3 inflammasome are still unknown. Here, this study confirms that antibiotic treatment abolishes the protective effect of egg yolk lipids on DSS‐induced colonic inflammation, intestinal barrier damage, and lipopolysaccharide translocation. Fecal microbiota transplantation also supports that egg yolk lipids alleviate colitis in a gut microbiota‐dependent manner. Then, the study investigates the relationship between SCFAs and NLRP3 inflammasome, and finds that SCFAs significantly suppress colitis via inhibiting colonic NLRP3 inflammasome activation and proinflammatory cytokines secretions (interleukin, IL)‐1β and IL‐18, and combined treatment of SCFAs and MCC950 (NLRP3 inhibitor) shows a better activity against colitis and NLRP3 inflammasome activation. Together, these findings provide positive evidence for gut microbiorta‐SCFAs‐NLRP3 axis as a novel target involving in the therapy of inflammatory bowel disease.
Spatial and temporal distribution of juvenile Gulf Sturgeon in the Pearl River, Louisiana, and adjacent estuaries of the Gulf of Mexico
Authors: Baer Ashley M. , Constant Glenn C. , Kimmel Kayla D. , Dance Michael A. , Brogdon Jenna N.
Published: April 2024

Objective

Acoustic telemetry was used to examine the spatial-temporal distribution and anadromous migration pattern of juvenile Gulf Sturgeon Acipenser desotoi within the Pearl River and associated coastal estuaries of Louisiana and Mississippi.

Methods

Acoustic transmitters were surgically implanted in 52 juvenile Gulf Sturgeon (<890 mm fork length) from the Pearl River between 2016 and 2019. Sturgeon were monitored on 247 acoustic receivers in the lower Pearl River and adjacent estuaries across numerous partnering arrays.

Result

Juveniles were detected on receivers from Lake Pontchartrain, Louisiana, east to Bay St. Louis, and Biloxi Bay, Mississippi. The 3-year study found that juvenile Gulf Sturgeon migration in the Pearl River occurred on cycles similar to those reported from other populations. Juveniles were rarely observed in the estuary and nearshore marine environments from May through mid-October of each year, during which time most sturgeon inhabited the Pearl River. Conversely, most of the juveniles inhabited coastal estuaries from December through February of each year and were rarely observed in freshwater environments during this period. Migration from the river into the estuary occurred during late-October through November, and migration from the estuary into the river occurred in March and April. Distribution patterns varied spatially within the river and estuary ecosystems during each phase of migration. Tagged juveniles occupied the lowest 40 km of the Pearl River while in freshwater, and they occupied the northeastern shoreline of Lake Pontchartrain and Bay St. Louis while in the estuary. Interestingly, juveniles seemed to target specific areas in the estuary during winter that were farther away from the mouth of natal rivers than has been previously reported.

Conclusion

This study provides a new assessment of juvenile Gulf Sturgeon migration and seasonal distribution for the Pearl River and provides important information for designing and assessing the potential benefits and challenges of habitat restoration for Gulf Sturgeon.
Enhancing CFRP laminates with plasma jet arrays: A study of interlaminar mechanical properties
Authors: Wang Anyu , Li Shuran , Zhang Shuo , Zhang Shihao , Liu Zhen , Yan Keping
Published: April 2024

This study delves into the efficacy of plasma jet array treatment in bolstering the interlaminar toughness of Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) prepregs, a crucial parameter for their deployment in high‐performance domains. Employing high‐frequency pulsed microsecond plasma jet arrays for surface modification, this research not only demonstrated a 19.49% upsurge in peak load capacity but also a remarkable 29.94% enhancement in Mode I interlaminar fracture toughness, as evident from Double Cantilever Beam (DCB) tests. Furthermore, the surface wettability improvements were underscored by a substantial decrease in water contact angle from 108.33° to 31.45° and a total surface energy augmentation from 12.20 to 64.16 mN/m, post a 1‐min plasma treatment. X‐ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) results indicated an appreciable rise in oxygen functionalities, suggesting enhanced resin‐fiber bonding. Additionally, Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) analyses revealed notable decreases in surface roughness and microscale defects, contributing to smoother surfaces conducive to better adhesive bonding and reduced manufacturing defects. These multifaceted improvements, stemming from alterations in surface chemistry and topography, underpin the significant potential of plasma treatment in advancing CFRP laminate applications requiring superior durability and mechanical resilience.

Highlights

A plasma jet arrays method to enhance CFRP's interlaminar properties was studied.

The influence mechanism of plasma modification was revealed in detail.

The interlayer toughening mechanism of CFRP after plasma modification is proposed.
NADES extraction, UHPLC‐ELSD‐based quantification, and network pharmacology‐guided target identification of fourteen specialised metabolites from Trillium govanianum Wall. ex D.Don
Authors: Singh Prithvi Pal , Anmol  , Suresh Patil Shivprasad , Sharma Upendra
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Trillium govanianum Wall. ex D.Don is a folk medicinal herb rich in structurally diverse steroidal saponins. The annual demand for this herb in India is about 200–500 metric tons, highlighting the need for a thorough quality assessment.

Objective

The objective of this study is to develop an easy and reliable ultrahigh‐performance liquid chromatography‐evaporative light scattering detector (UHPLC‐ELSD)‐based quality assessment method with 14 specialised metabolites of T. govanianum and identify the potential targets of this herb using network pharmacology.

Material and methods

A UHPLC‐ELSD method was developed and validated with 14 markers of T. govanianum. The developed method and natural deep eutectic solvent (NADES)‐assisted extraction were utilised for the recovery enhancement study of targeted specialised metabolites from rhizome samples (collected from five geographically distinct areas). In addition, the network pharmacology approach was performed for these 14 markers to predict the plausible biological targets of T. govanianum.

Result

The developed method showed good linearity (r2: 0.940–0.998), limit of detection (LOD) (2.4–9.0 μg), limit of quantification (LOQ) (7.92–29.7 μg), precision (intra‐day relative standard deviations [RSDs] 0.77%–1.96% and inter‐day RSDs 2.19–4.97%), and accuracy (83.24%–118.90%). NADES sample TG‐1* showed the highest recovery (yield: 167.66 ± 4.39 mg/g of dry weight) of total saponin content (TSC) as compared to its hydroethanolic extract (yield: 103.95 ± 5.36 mg/g of dry weight). Sample TG‐1* was the most favourable (yield: 167.66 ± 4.39 mg/g) in terms of TSC as compared to other analysed samples (32.68 ± 1.04–88.22 ± 6.79 mg/g). Govanoside D (yield: 3.43–28.06 mg/g), 22β‐hydroxyprotodioscin (yield: 3.22–114.79 mg/g), and dioscin (yield: 1.07–20.82 mg/g) were quantified as the major metabolites. Furthermore, network pharmacology analysis of targeted 14 markers indicated that these molecules could be possible therapeutic agents for managing neuralgia, diabetes mellitus, and hyperalgesia.

Conclusion

The current study represents the first report for the simultaneous quantification and a network pharmacology‐based analysis of 14 chemical marker compounds isolated from T. govanianum.
Investigation of anisotropic shrinkage in liquid silicone rubber injection molding: Process variables
Authors: Bont Matthew R. , Johnston Stephen
Published: April 2024

Injection molded liquid silicone rubber (LSR) devices are used in high performance applications for the medical, transportation, and energy industries. Anisotropic shrinkage in LSR injection molding has been observed in practice but is generally not well understood. This research focused on anisotropic shrinkage based on flow and cross‐flow orientation. LSR parts were molded at varying thicknesses, shear rates, fill times, and cure temperatures. Simulations accurately predicted the fill pattern and were used to predict the cure rate of the samples. LSR molding showed a significant range of linear shrinkage ratios between the flow versus crossflow directions shrinkage from above 1.30 to below 0.92. The underlying driver of anisotropic behavior is believed to be reaching a sufficient average cure through the cross section combined with flow‐induced orientation. Shrinkage anisotropy was found to generally increase with increasing shear rate in regions where curing was significant. Additionally, dynamic mechanical analysis showed a connection between the polymer network using the modulus and anisotropic linear shrinkage.

Highlights

Liquid silicone rubber injection molding experienced anisotropic shrinkage.

Shrinkage was greater in the flow direction than in the crossflow direction.

Shear flow caused orientation and strain of silicone polymer chains in cavity.

Reaching cure threshold during flow caused increased shrinkage anisotropy.

Shrinkage anisotropic showed due to network structure with anisotropic moduli.
Cellulose nanocomposite tough hydrogels: synergistic self‐healing, adhesive and strain‐sensitive properties
Authors: Nujud Badawi Mohammed , Agrawal Namrata , Kumar Yogesh , Khan Mujeeb , Hatshan Mohammad Rafe , Alayyaf Abdulmajeed Abdullah , Adil Syed Farooq
Published: April 2024

Recent advancements are notable in electrically conductive hydrogels emulating human skin functions. However, a significant challenge remains: crafting a single conductive gel that integrates self‐healing, robust mechanical strength, and excellent electrical traits. Our innovation lies in a strong, lightweight, curable gel achieved through multiple coordination bonds between cellulose crystals and acid‐treated multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) in a polymer network. Embedded MWCNTs act as dynamic bridges within a porous structure, giving exceptional mechanical performance. Reversible coordination interactions confer remarkable recovery and reliable mechanical and electrical self‐healing. Additionally, these ionic gels function as adaptable stress sensors, detecting significant movements like finger and joint motions. This work introduces MWCNT‐incorporated nanomaterials with good stretchability, high ion conductivity, remarkable self‐healing nature, and good stress sensitivity. Such proteins hold promise for electronic sensors, wearable devices, and healthcare monitoring, unveiling a path to diverse applications. Our study addresses challenges and unlocks possibilities for materials that can adapt, withstand, and sense in innovative ways. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Preparation and properties of poly[(butylene adipate)‐co‐terephthalate]/thermoplastic hydroxypropyl starch films
Authors: Wang Muxi , Li Zehao , Zhao Wenbo , Huang Zhenyu , Liu Hong , Ma Li‐Jun , Yang Liting
Published: April 2024

Poly[(butylene adipate)‐co‐terephthalate] (PBAT) is currently the most widely used and versatile petroleum‐based fully biodegradable polyester, drawing extensive attention from researchers. However, the high production cost of PBAT restricts its widespread application. Currently, incorporating fillers into PBAT materials is considered the most effective approach to reduce production costs, with thermoplastic starch recognized as the optimal filler for PBAT base materials. Nevertheless, the low mechanical strength of thermoplastic starch significantly compromises the performance of PBAT base materials. In this study, thermoplastic starch with higher mechanical strength was prepared by partially substituting commonly used glycerol with a higher molecular weight sorbitol as the plasticizer. The enhanced thermoplastic starch was then used as a filler for PBAT materials, leading to the fabrication of PBAT‐based blend films with high starch content. Mechanical property tests revealed a 52.2% and 65.3% increase of tensile strength in the transverse and longitudinal directions, respectively, when sorbitol partially replaced glycerol as the plasticizer for thermoplastic starch. Scanning electron microscopy results demonstrated improved dispersion of thermoplastic starch particles in PBAT when sorbitol and glycerol were used together. Meanwhile, the thermal performance and stability of PBAT were not significantly affected by the thermoplastic starch filling. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Exposures for anxiety: A survey of practicing school psychologists
Authors: Weiss Sheva , Shernoff Elisa S. , Lekwa Adam , Shahidullah Jeffrey
Published: April 2024

Despite robust evidence supporting exposure‐based interventions for anxiety disorders in youth, these treatments are often underutilized, implemented with low fidelity, and delivered in an unnecessarily cautious manner. Few studies have examined important implementation variables (e.g., knowledge, training, perceptions) related to using exposures in schools. A national sample of school psychologists (N = 318) working in K‐12 public schools reported on their knowledge, training, perceptions, confidence, and use regarding exposures. Over 50% of respondents reported they do not use exposures. Only slightly more than half of the respondents received training in exposures through graduate coursework. Eighty percent endorsed negative beliefs about exposures, with nearly 50% expressing concern about acceptability of the intervention by parents. Barriers to delivering exposures within schools endorsed included inadequate time (79% of sample), training (61%), and access to training materials (51%). Implications for training, practice, and research in school psychology are discussed.
Tank‐mix adjuvants improved spray performance and biological efficacy in rice insecticide application with unmanned aerial vehicle sprayer
Authors: Wang Lingxiao , Xia Shiyu , Zhang Hao , Li Yangfan , Huang Zhan , Qiao Baiyu , Zhong Ling , Cao Mingzhang , He Xiongkui , Wang Changling , Liu Yajia
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND

The use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for the application of plant protection products (PPPs) in paddy fields is becoming increasingly prevalent worldwide. Despite its growing usage, UAV spraying for rice pest control faces practical challenges, including limited canopy penetration, uneven deposition, and significant spray drift. This study investigated the impact of two tank‐mix adjuvants, Wonderful Rosin (Adjuvant‐1) and Tiandun (Adjuvant‐2), at six volume concentrations, on the spray liquid's physicochemical properties, spray drift, plant deposition, and the biological efficacy of rice insecticides using a quadrotor UAV sprayer.

RESULTS

The physicochemical characteristics of the spray liquid influenced spray performance and biological efficacy. Incorporating Adjuvant‐1 and Adjuvant‐2 led to a decrease in surface tension and contact angle while increasing the viscosity of the spray solution. These alterations in surface tension and viscosity contributed to an optimized droplet size distribution, reduced spray drift, enhanced deposition uniformity and penetration, and improved control efficacy against the rice planthopper in UAV applications. The highest control efficacy was observed at a concentration of 0.5%, showing an improvement of 35.12% (Adjuvant‐1) and 20.23% (Adjuvant‐2) over applications without tank‐mix adjuvant 7 days after treatment.

CONCLUSION

The judicious selection of tank‐mix adjuvants for UAV PPP applications can significantly enhance spray performance and biological efficacy in controlling rice insects. This study's findings offer valuable insights for integrating tank‐mix adjuvants into UAV spraying applications. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Design, synthesis and Anti‐PVY activity of planar chiral thiourea derivatives incorporated with [2.2]Paracyclophane
Authors: Shu Liangzhen , Lv Ya , Chen Zhongyin , Huang Yixian , Zhang Meng , Jin Zhichao , Li Tingting , Chi Yonggui Robin
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND

Potato virus Y (PVY) is a prominent representative of plant viruses. It can inflict severe damage upon Solanaceae plants, leading to global dissemination and substantial economic losses. To discover new antiviral agents, a class of planar chiral thiourea molecules through the key step of N‐heterocyclic carbene‐catalyzed nitrile formation reaction was synthesized with excellent optical purities for antiviral evaluations against plant virus PVY.

RESULTS

The absolute configurations of the planar chiral compounds exhibited obvious distinctions in the anti‐PVY activities. Notability, compound (S)‐4u exhibited remarkable curative activities against PVY, with a half maximal effective concentration (EC50) of 349.3 μg mL−1, which was lower than that of the ningnanmycin (NNM) (EC50 = 400.8 μg mL−1). Additionally, The EC50 value for the protective effects of (S)‐4u was 146.2 μg mL−1, which was superior to that of NNM (276.4 μg mL−1). Furthermore, the mechanism‐of‐action of enantiomers of planar chiral compound 4u was investigated through molecular docking, defensive enzyme activity tests and chlorophyll content tests.

CONCLUSION

Biological mechanism studies have demonstrated that the configuration of planar chiral target compounds plays a crucial role in the molecular interaction with PVY‐CP, enhancing the activity of defense enzymes and affecting chlorophyll content. The current study has provided significant insights into the roles played by planar chiralities in plant protection against viruses. This paves the way for the development of novel green pesticides bearing planar chiralities with excellent optical purities. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Optimization of peptide synthesis time and sustainability using novel eco‐friendly binary solvent systems with induction heating on an automated peptide synthesizer
Authors: Pacini Lorenzo , Muthyala Manoj , Aguiar Luisa , Zitterbart Robert , Rovero Paolo , Papini Anna Maria
Published: April 2024

On December 12th, 2023, the European Commission took regulatory action to amend Annex XVII of REACH, imposing restrictions on the use of N,N‐dimethylformamide (DMF) within the EU market owing to its high toxicity. Historically, DMF has been widely considered the gold standard for solid‐phase peptide synthesis (SPPS). Being urgent to propose alternative solvents, we tested the suitability of non‐hazardous neat and mixed solvents. Notably, binary solvent mixtures containing dimethyl sulfoxide as one of the solvent partners demonstrated high efficacy in solubilizing reagents while maintaining the desired swelling characteristics of common resins. A series of binary solvent mixtures were tested in automated SPPS, both at room temperature and high temperature, employing the PurePep® Chorus synthesizer, which enabled controlled induction heating between 25 and 90°C with oscillation mixing. The performances were assessed in challenging peptide sequences, i.e., ACP (65–74), and in longer and aggregating sequences like SARS‐CoV‐2 RBM (436–507) and β‐amyloid (1–42). Furthermore, as part of the proposed sustainable approach to minimize the utilization of hazardous solvents, we coupled the novel PurePep EasyClean catch‐and‐release purification technology. This work, addressing regulatory compliance, emphasizes the crucial role of green chemistry in advancing safer and more environmentally friendly practices in SPPS.
Absolute instability of moisture‐coupled waves on the equatorial beta‐plane
Authors: MacDonald Cameron G.
Published: April 2024

The instabilities produced by a linear model of the tropical atmosphere coupled to a prognostic equation for water vapour are investigated. The basic model with no meridional wind supports unstable eastward‐propagating waves. For parameter regimes relevant to the Indo‐Pacific warm pool, the long‐time asymptotic behaviour of the unstable waves is found to be absolutely unstable, so that the amplitude of disturbances will grow in time at every point in the domain. The absolute instability of the system is realized at planetary length‐scales and intraseasonal frequencies. Other parameter choices for the system do not produce this same behaviour at these length‐ and time‐scales. It is shown that the resultant long‐time behaviour of the instability is characterized by roughly equal roles for temperature and moisture fluctuations in setting the thermodynamic tendency of the waves. With the inclusion of momentum damping, the phase speed of the absolutely unstable solution is about 7 ms. Addition of a strong background meridional moisture gradient, as in recent studies on the Madden–Julian Oscillation (MJO), appears to remove the absolute instability from the system. In a background state that varies slowly in the zonal direction, it is shown analytically that localized regions of instability may be formed, again using parameter choices relevant to the warm pool. The dynamics and thermodynamics of these local instabilities show some correspondence with the observed development of the MJO as it propagates through the warm pool.
Nonlinear optimization filters for stochastic time‐varying convex optimization
Authors: Simonetto Andrea , Massioni Paolo
Published: April 2024

We look at a stochastic time‐varying optimization problem and we formulate online algorithms to find and track its optimizers in expectation. The algorithms are derived from the intuition that standard prediction and correction steps can be seen as a nonlinear dynamical system and a measurement equation, respectively, yielding the notion of nonlinear filter design. The optimization algorithms are then based on an extended Kalman filter in the unconstrained case, and on a bilinear matrix inequality condition in the constrained case. Some special cases and variations are discussed, notably the case of parametric filters, yielding certificates based on LPV analysis and, if one wishes, matrix sum‐of‐squares relaxations. Supporting numerical results are presented from real data sets in ride‐hailing scenarios. The results are encouraging, especially when predictions are accurate, a case which is often encountered in practice when historical data is abundant.
Observer‐based output feedback event‐triggered robust control for heterogeneous vehicular platoon systems
Authors: Tian Zixin , Li Yongming , Tong Shaocheng
Published: April 2024

In this article, the problem of output feedback robust control for heterogeneous vehicle platoon system (HVPS) is investigated. A novel double‐channel event‐triggered mechanism is designed to reduce the waste of communication resources and unnecessary data transmissions. A neural network state observer is designed by intermittent output signal to estimate unmeasurable states. The prescribed performance function is used to establish a strong string stability condition. Combining backstepping recursive technique and prescribed performance function with its inverse transformation, observer‐based robust adaptive output feedback event‐triggered platoon controller is designed, which can ensure the individual stability, string stability, and strong string stability of HVPS. It is proved that all signals are bounded by Lyapunov stability analysis. Finally, the validity of the proposed results is proved by simulation.
New Amino Acids Naphthalene Scaffolds as Potent Antimicrobial Agents: In Vitro Assay and In Silico Molecular Docking Study
Authors: Kalariya Ravi N. , Pandya Vikrant H. , Gohil Nisarg G. , Bhattacharjee Gargi , Singh Vijai , Rajani Dhanji P. , Rana Shally , Bhosale Rajesh S. , Singh Yadav Jhillu
Published: April 2024

The development of innovative antifungal medications to address the issues of indiscriminate antifungal use contributes to certain antifungal drug resistance. To tackle this issue, we have designed and synthesized novel amino acids naphthalene scaffolds (6 a–6 i) (Scheme 1) by acid amine coupling between compound 5 and various amino acids. Moreover, we evaluated the antifungal, anti‐bacterial and antimalarial activities of synthesized derivatives. Among them, compounds Met (6 a), Phe (6 c), Lys (6 d), Ser (6 f), and Tyr (6 i) expressed excellent antifungal activity at a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) value of 250 μg/mL against Candida albicans compared to standard drug griseofulvin (500 μg/mL). The antibacterial assay results showed that compound Met (6 a) exhibited effective antibacterial activity at MIC value at 50 and 62.5 μg/mL against Streptococcus pyogenes and Pseudomonas aeruginosa respectively, and compound Trp (6 g) showed very good antibacterial activity at MIC 62.5 μg/mL against Staphylococcus aureus. The antimalarial activity of synthesized compoundsVal (6 b) and Lys (6 d) showed moderately active with mean IC50 of 0.69 and 0.47 μg/mL, respectively compared with standard drug quinine (IC50=0.26 μg/mL). Also, a molecular docking study was performed to demonstrate the binding energy of synthesized scaffoldswith effective interaction with various proteins. The compound Met (6 a) showed that the highest binding affinity (binding energy: −7.1 kcal/mol) which interacted more effectively with VAL 120 (2.90 Å).
Ageist attitudes and psychological distress in older adults: The moderating role of reflective functioning
Authors: Bergman Yoav S. , Weissberger Gali H.
Published: April 2024

Ageist attitudes have been associated with various aspects of psychological functioning in older adults. According to Terror Management Theory, older adults may be seen as a reminder of human demise and death, and research has demonstrated links between ageist attitudes and compromised abilities to seek and maintain close personal relationships, which ward off awareness of one's mortality. Accordingly, the current work examined whether reflective functioning, or the ability to comprehend one's own and others' mental states, mitigates the negative psychological manifestations of ageist attitudes in older adults. Data was collected from 686 participants aged 60–94 (Mage = 72.64, SD = 6.28), who completed scales assessing ageist attitudes, reflective functioning, and psychological distress, as well as relevant socio‐demographic information. Results indicated that ageist attitudes were linked with low levels of reflective functioning and enhanced psychological distress. Moreover, reflective functioning moderated the ageist attitudes‐distress link, which was not significant in individuals reporting high levels of reflective functioning. This study provides insight into how the ability to comprehend others' mental states mitigates the adverse psychological effects of ageist attitudes and highlights the importance of examining relationship‐enhancing personal factors within the context of negative ageing perceptions and psychological distress.
Mesoporous Gold: Substrate‐Dependent Growth Dynamics, Strain Accumulation, and Electrocatalytic Activity for Biosensing
Authors: Park Hyeongyu , Masud Mostafa Kamal , Ashok Aditya , Kim Minjun , Wahab Md Abdul , Zhou Jun , Terasawa Yukana , Gallo Carlos Salomon , Nguyen Nam‐Trung , Hossain Md Shahriar A. , Yamauchi Yusuke , Kaneti Yusuf Valentino
Published: April 2024

Understanding the growth of mesoporous crystalline materials, such as mesoporous metals, on different substrates can provide valuable insights into the crystal growth dynamics and the redox reactions that influence their electrochemical sensing performance. Herein, it is demonstrated how the amorphous nature of the glass substrate can suppress the typical <111> oriented growth in mesoporous Au (mAu) films. The suppressed <111> growth is manifested as an accumulation of strain, leading to the generation of abundant surface defects, which are beneficial for enhancing the electrochemical activity. The fine structuring attained enables dramatically accelerated diffusion and enhances the electrochemical sensing performance for disease‐specific biomolecules. As a proof‐of‐concept, the as‐fabricated glass‐grown mAu film demonstrates high sensitivity in electrochemical detection of SARS‐CoV‐2‐specific RNA with a limit of detection (LoD) as low as 1 attomolar (aM).
Constructing a 3D Zinc Anode Exposing the Zn(002) Plane for Ultralong Life Zinc‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Chen Xingfa , Zhai Zhixiang , Yu Tianqi , Liang Xincheng , Huang Renshu , Wang Fan , Yin Shibin
Published: April 2024

The limited lifespan of aqueous Zn‐ion batteries (ZIBs) is primarily attributed to the irreversible issues associated with the Zn anode, including dendrite growth, hydrogen evolution, and side reactions. Herein, a 3D Zn anode exposing Zn(002) crystal planes (3D‐Zn(002) anode) is first constructed by an electrostripping method in KNO3 solution. Experiments and theoretical calculations indicate that the priority adsorption of KNO3 on Zn(100) and Zn(101) planes decreases the dissolution energy of Zn atoms, thereby exposing more Zn(002) planes. The 3D‐Zn(002) anode effectively regulates ion flux to realize the uniform nucleation of Zn2+. Moreover, it can inhibit water‐induced formation of side‐products and hydrogen evolution reaction. Consequently, the 3D‐Zn(002) symmetrical cell exhibits an exceptionally long lifespan surpassing 6000 h at 5.0 mA cm−2 with a capacity of 1.0 mAh cm−2, and enduring 8500 cycles at 30 mA cm−2 with a capacity of 1.0 mAh cm−2. Besides, when NH4V4O10 is used as the cathode, the 3D‐Zn(002)//NH4V4O10 full cell shows stable cycling performance with a capacity retention rate of 75.7% after 4000 cycles at 5.0 A g−1. This study proposes a feasible method employing a 3D‐Zn(002) anode for enhancing the cycling durability of ZIBs.
Reinforcing 2D Single‐Crystal Bi2O2CO3 with Additional Interlayer Carbonates by CO2‐Assisted Solid‐to‐Solid Phase Transition
Authors: Yang Bixia , Dong Weilong , Zhu Chongbing , Huang Xinlian , Han Yunhui , Zheng Yanting , Yan Jiawei , Zhuang Zanyong , Yu Yan
Published: April 2024

A facile gaseous CO2 mediated solid‐to‐solid transformation principle is adopted to insert additional CO32− anions into the thin single‐crystal nanosheets of Bi2O2CO3, which is built of periodic arrays of intrinsic CO32− anions and (Bi2O2)2+ layers. The additional CO32− anions create abundant defects. The Bi2O2CO3 nanosheets with rich interlayer CO32− exhibit superior electronic properties and charge transfer kinetics than the pristine single‐crystal 2D Bi2O2CO3 and display enhanced catalytic activity in photocatalytic CO2 reduction reaction and the photocatalytic oxidative degradation of organic pollutants. This work thus illustrates interlayer engineering as a flexible means to build layered 2D materials with excellent properties.
pH‐Controllable Redox Responsive Amphiphilic Viologens for Switchable Emulsions
Authors: Zhang Xinyue , Peng Chifang , Jiang Jianzhong
Published: April 2024

A pH and redox dual responsive amphiphilic viologen is synthesized, which can be reversibly transformed among the zwitterionic (SVa), monovalent anionic (SV+), and divalent anionic (SVH2+) forms upon pH variation, exhibiting pH‐controllable redox responsive properties. Switchable Pickering emulsions with different droplet size and viscosity are prepared by the mixture of hydrophilic silica nanoparticles and the viologens (SV+ or SVH2+) at acidic conditions, while such combination yielded an oil‐in‐dispersion emulsion at neutral pH value. Not only can rapid reversible demulsification/stabilization of the Pickering emulsions be achieved by redox reactions, but the rate of redox‐demulsification can also be controlled by pH trigger. The dual‐responsive amphiphilic viologens have potential applications in developing intelligent colloid materials and molecular logic systems.
A Universal Biomacromolecule‐Enabled Assembly Strategy for Constructing Multifunctional Aerogels with 90% Inorganic Mass Loading from Inert Nano‐Building Blocks
Authors: Yang Di , Dong Xiangyang , Jiang Linbin , Liu Fangtian , Ma Shuai , Shi Xiaowen , Du Yumin , Chen Chaoji , Deng Hongbing
Published: April 2024

Inert inorganic nano‐building blocks, such as carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and boron nitride (BN) nanosheets, possess excellent physicochemical properties. However, it remains challenging to build aerogels with these inert nanomaterials unless they are chemically modified or compounded with petrochemical polymers, which affects their intrinsic properties and is usually not environmentally friendly. Here, a universal biomacromolecule‐enabled assembly strategy is proposed to construct aerogels with 90 wt% ultrahigh inorganic loading. The super‐high inorganic content is beneficial for exploiting the inherent properties of inert nanomaterials in multifunctional applications. Taking chitosan‐CNTs aerogel as a proof‐of‐concept demonstration, it delivers sensitive pressure response as a pressure sensor, an ultrahigh sunlight absorption (94.5%) raising temperature under light (from 25 to 71 °C within 1 min) for clean‐up of crude oil spills, and superior electromagnetic interference shielding performance of up to 68.9 dB. This strategy paves the way for the multifunctional application of inert nanomaterials by constructing aerogels with ultrahigh inorganic loading.
The Human Spectrum: A Critique of “Neurodiversity”
Authors: Maynard Douglas W.
Published: April 2024

This paper represents a sociological approach to autism spectrum disorder that critiques the terms neurodiverse and it obverse, neurotypical, because they promote a cognitive approach that mystifies what is actual and real about human activity in everyday life. It is in dynamic interactional practices rather than putative cognitive states that human diversity is manifest or observable. The empirical part of the paper, following Bleuler, defines and examines “autistic talk” as a turning away from the ordinary social world or commonsense “reality,” and engaging self‐oriented practices and orientations. However, the range of participants who produce such talk is not confined to those on the putative autism spectrum. Rather, that range encompasses the entire human span. If so, then a question is raised about what autism is as a “condition,” which term individualizes social difficulties rather than appreciating that they are always about diverse social actions‐in‐interaction.
Optimizing heat transfer rate with sensitivity analysis on nonlinear radiative hydromagnetic hybrid nanofluid flow considering catalytic effects and slip condition: Hamilton–Crosser and Yamada–Ota modelling
Authors: Panda Subhajit , Ontela Surender , Pattnaik P. K. , Mishra S. R.
Published: April 2024

In current investigation the optimization of heat transportation rate in a nonlinear radiative buoyancy‐driven hydromagnetic carbon nanotube (CNT) hybrid nanofluid flow is analysed. The proposed catalytic effects and slip condition is accounted for the real‐world complexities of the system. The Hamilton–Crosser (HC) and Yamada–Ota (YO) models are employed to characterize the behaviour of the nanofluid. The primary objective is to enhance the heat transmission rate, which is crucial for various engineering applications such as thermal management, energy systems and so forth. To achieve this, sensitivity analysis is performed to identify the most influential parameters affecting heat transfer in the system. By understanding the sensitivity of these parameters, the performance of the system can be improvised. The study focuses on the interplay between key factors including radiative heat transfer, buoyancy‐driven flow, magnetic field influence, catalytic effects, and slip condition. The presence of CNTs in the nanofluid adds another dimension to the complexity of the system that explores the effects of varying the concentration and size of CNTs on the heat transfer rate. By utilizing advanced mathematical modelling and numerical simulations, the performance of the system under different scenarios and identify the optimal conditions for maximizing heat transfer rate is evaluated. The findings of this research provide valuable insights into the design and optimization of heat transfer systems involving nanofluids with nonlinear radiative and hydromagnetic effects. The observation shows that, irrespective to single wall and multi wall CNT nanoparticles the fluid velocity attenuates significantly whereas it favours in enhancing the fluid temperature. Further, the comparative analysis reveals that the heat transfer augments in the case of HC model than that of YO model.
Deformation and Frictional Failure of Granular Media in 3D Analog and Numerical Experiments
Authors: Ioannidi P. I. , McLafferty S. , Reber J. E. , Morra G. , Weatherley D.
Published: April 2024

Frictional sliding along grain boundaries in brittle shear zones can result in the fragmentation of individual grains, which ultimately can impact slip dynamics. During deformation at small scales, stick–slip motion can occur between grains when existing force chains break due to grain rearrangement or failure, resulting in frictional sliding of granular material. The rearrangement of the grains leads to dilation of the granular package, reducing the shear stress and subsequently leading to slip. Here, we conduct physical experiments employing HydroOrbs, an elasto-plastic material, to investigate grain comminution in granular media under simple shear conditions. Our findings demonstrate that the degree of grain comminution is dependent on both the normal force and the size of the grains. Using the experimental setup, we benchmark Discrete Element Method (DEM) numerical models, which are capable of simulating the movement, rotation, and fracturing of elasto-plastic grains subjected to simple shear. The DEM models successfully replicate both grain comminution patterns and horizontal force fluctuations observed in our physical experiments. They show that increasing normal forces correlate with higher horizontal forces and more fractured grains. The ability of our DEM models to accurately reproduce experimental results opens up new avenues for investigating various parameter spaces that may not be accessible through traditional laboratory experiments, for example, in assessing how internal friction or cohesion affect deformation in granular systems.