bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sensing the Small Change of Intermolecular Distance in Supramolecular Assembly by Using the Tunable Emission Wavelength of AIE‐Active Luminogens
Authors: Sun Xinyu , Li Hui , Mokarizadeh Abdol Hadi , Xu Xiaohan , Liu Tong , Luo Jiancheng , Yang Yuqing , Zhang Shuailin , Liu Fangbei , Tsige Mesfin , Cheng Stephen Z. D. , Liu Tianbo
Published: October 2024

The distinct molecular states — single molecule, assembly, and aggregate — of two ionic macromolecules, TPPE‐APOSS and TPE‐APOSS, are easily distinguishable through their tunable fluorescence emission wavelengths, which reflect variations in intermolecular distances. Both ionic macromolecules contain aggregation‐induced emission (AIE) active moieties whose emission wavelengths are directly correlated to their mutual distances in solution: far away from each other as individual molecules, maintaining a tunable and relatively long distance in electrostatic interactions‐controlled blackberry‐type assemblies (microphase separation), or approaching van der Waals close distance in aggregates (macrophase separation). Furthermore, within the blackberry assemblies, the emission wavelength decreases monotonically with increasing assembly size, indicative of shorter intermolecular distances at nanoscale. The emission changes of TPPE‐APOSS blackberry assemblies can even be visually distinguishable by eyes when their sizes and intermolecular distances are tuned. Molecular dynamics simulations further revealed that macromolecules are confined in various conformations by controllable intermolecular distances within the blackberry structure, thereby resulting in fluorescence emission with tunable wavelength.
Modulating Nitrogen Adsorption Mode and Microenvironment of Active Sites for Boosting Electrochemical Nitrogen Reduction
Authors: Yang Zihao , Fang Cong , Guo Xiuling , Sun Xiaoyan , Yang Yong
Published: October 2024

Electrochemical reduction of N2 (NRR) offers a sustainable approach for ammonia (NH3) synthesis, serving as a complementary to the traditional emission‐ and energy‐intensive Haber–Bosch process. However, it faces challenges in N2 activation and competing with pronounced hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). Herein an efficient electrocatalyst comprised of ultrafine Ru nanoclusters (NCs) confined by a hydrophobic molecular layer is developed on the surface of 2D Ti3C2Tx for NRR. These experimental and theoretical calculation results demonstrate that 1) ultrafine Ru NCs dispersed on the Ti3C2Tx surface form paired active sites for N2 chemisorption in a unique tilted configuration with low‐energy activation 2) the hydrophobic molecular layer modulates the local microenvironment surrounding catalytically active sites, enabling efficient N2 accumulation while repelling H2O diffusion to the active sites on the Ti3C2Tx surface, thereby leading to an increased N2 concentration and suppressed HER. As a result, an exceptionally high NH3 yield rate of 33.5 µg h−1 mg−1cat and Faradaic efficiency of 65.3% are obtained at −0.25 V versus reversible hydrogen electrode (RHE) in 0.1 m Na2SO4, outperforming those previously reported Ti3C2Tx‐derived electrocatalysts. This work provides a valuable strategy for the rational design of advanced electrocatalysts by manipulating active sites and local microenvironments for efficient electrocatalysis.
Fluorescent Dye‐Based Chiral Crystalline Organic Salt Networks for Circularly Polarized Luminescence
Authors: Li Haitao , Zhang Shuyu , Zhu Qi‐Long , Sheng Tian‐Lu , Wu Xin‐Tao , Wen Yuehong
Published: October 2024

A facile and general strategy is developed herein for the construction of circularly polarized luminescence (CPL) materials with simultaneously high fluorescence quantum efficiency (Φ) and large luminescence dissymmetry factor (glum). The self‐assembly of fluorescent dye, disodium 4,4′‐bis(2‐sulfonatostyryl)biphenyl (CBS), with chiral diamines such as (R,R)/(S,S)‐1,2‐diaminocyclohexane (R/S‐DACH) and R/S‐1,2‐diaminopropane (R/S‐DAP), produces four chiral crystalline organic salt networks (COSNs). These as‐synthesized organic salts emit strong blue‐color CPL upon excitation, with both high Φ and glum values of up to 79% and 0.022. The well‐defined molecular structures and arrangements of CBS are directly observed through single crystal X‐ray analysis, offering crucial information regarding the origins of high‐efficiency CPL performance. The chirality of amine is effectively transferred to CBS and further amplified to the supramolecular structure by multiple hydrogen bonding and π–π stacking interactions, giving rise to the large glum factors; meanwhile, the fixation and the ordered arrangement of CBS by these multiple interactions empower efficient suppression of molecular motions, facilitating strong fluorescence. This work can inspire the assembly of CPL organic materials with high Φ and glum via charge‐assisted hydrogen bonds between fluorescent dyes and chiral inducers. It also offers important insight into the structural origins of supramolecular chirality and CPL performance.
Long‐Term Selective Photoelectrochemical Glycerol Oxidation via Oxygen Vacancy Modulated Tungsten Oxide with Self‐Healing
Authors: Jung Yoonsung , Kim Seunghwan , Kim Seungkyu , Kim Yejoon , Hwang Jun Beom , Kim Dong‐Yu , Lee Sanghan
Published: October 2024

The photoelectrochemical selective oxidation of biowaste glycerol into the high value‐added material, along with hydrogen production, holds significant promise for advancing renewable and sustainable energy technologies. Here, the surface oxygen state of tungsten oxide is modified to selectively oxidize glycerol into glyceraldehyde, a high‐value‐added material, and the selectivity is maintained over a prolonged period using the photo‐stimulated self‐recovery capability. The surface‐coordinated photoelectrode exhibits high charge transfer efficiency to glycerol and favorable glycerol adsorption capacity, enabling the selective conversion of glycerol. At 1.2 VRHE in a 2 m glycerol electrolyte adjusted to pH 2, the tungsten oxide photoelectrode achieves a photocurrent density of 2.58 mA cm−2 and a production rate of 378.8 mmol m−2 h−1 with selectivity of 86.1%. The high selectivity is preserved for 18 h by utilizing the self‐healing capability of tungsten oxide to restore initial states modified by photoelectrochemical oxidation. This work sheds light on the design of highly efficient metal oxide photoelectrodes for selective biomass oxidation over extended periods.
The Emerging Strategy of Symmetry Breaking for Enhancing Energy Conversion and Storage Performance
Authors: Liu Yongqi , Luo Yixiang , Zhang Mengyang , Zhang Anlei , Wang Longlu
Published: October 2024

Symmetry breaking has emerged as a novel strategy to enhance energy conversion and storage performance, which refers to changes in the atomic configurations within a material reducing its internal symmetry. According to the location of the symmetry breaking, it can be classified into spontaneous symmetry breaking within the material, local symmetry breaking on the surface of the material, and symmetry breaking caused by external fields outside the material. However, there are currently few summaries in this field, so it is necessary to summarize how symmetry breaking improves energy conversion and storage performance. In this review, the fundamentals of symmetry breaking are first introduced, which allows for a deeper understanding of its meaning. Then the applications of symmetry breaking in energy conversion and storage are systematically summarized, providing various mechanisms in energy conversion and storage, as well as how to improve energy conversion performance and storage efficiency. Last but not least, the current applications of symmetry breaking are summarized and provide an outlook on its future development. It is hoped that this review can provide new insights into the applications of symmetry breaking and promote its further development.
Molecular docking and spectroscopic exploration (FT‐IR, FT‐Raman) with HOMO–LUMO, ADMET, and 5,7‐dihydroxy‐2‐(4‐hydroxyphenyl) chroman‐4‐one against lung cancer: A potential uptake B‐RAF inhibitor
Authors: Chinnappan Divya , Sekar Kathirvel , Madhu Govindammal , Rajendran Devianjana , Vinayagam Sathishkumar , Manivannan Prasath , Sattu Kamaraj
Published: October 2024

Naringenin has been proven to inhibit cell proliferation, which has anticancer properties. The role of Naringenin molecule in lung cancer and its processes are yet unknown. Naringenin is chemically called as 5,7‐dihydroxy‐2‐(4‐hydroxyphenyl) chroman‐4‐one, which was optimized geometrical parameters analysis such as bond length, bond angle and torsion angle were analyzed from Naringenin by utilizing Gaussian 09 W program. Characterizations of Naringenin analyzed by B3LYP density functional theory with basis set 6–311G (d,p). The energy value of Naringenin molecules are analyzed with (ground state) HOMO value −4.616, LUMO value for −0.169 (first excited state) energies and also predicted by energy cap value is 4.446. ADMET and drug likeness of the title compound was predicted, it's qualified with the Lipinski's rule of five. Naringenin molecular structural changes, distribution and also its reactive site investigated with MEP (Molecular Electrostatic Potential) analyses spans from −0.118eO to 0.118eO. The density of state (DOS) used to know molecular orbital contribution for selected compound. It was determined that Naringenin molecule in the active site of B‐RAF inhibitor (PDB code: 4MNF) has a binding energy of −8.9 based on a docking analysis and conformational changes. From this study, this drug will be expected to undergo essential future chemotherapy agent for lung cancer patient.
Effect of the succinonitrile additive, electrode processing, and N/P ratios in the performance of high‐voltage lithium‐ion batteries using LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4 cathode
Authors: Nguyen Hieu Thai Minh , Nguyen Quynh Nhu , Truong Tuyen Thi Thanh , Van Nguyen Hoang , Doan Ngoc Hong Nguyen , Le Phuoc‐Anh , Nguyen Phi Long , Phung Thi Viet Bac , Van Tran Man , Huynh Tuyen Thi Kim , Phung Quan , Le Phung My Loan
Published: October 2024

The progressive improvement in the gravimetric energy density of lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) leads to electrolyte design, positive electrode, and full‐cell optimization processes. The spinel lithium nickel manganese oxide (LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4, LNMO) is one of the potential candidates for the next generation of LIBs applied for electric vehicles due to high working potential (4.75 V vs. Li+/Li), affordable price, and environmental friendliness. Nevertheless, the degradation of cycling performance at high potential induces massive challenges for commercializing LNMO‐based batteries. This study investigated the impact of succinonitrile (SN), electrode processing, and N/P ratios to strengthen the LNMO half‐cell and graphite||LNMO full‐cell performance. According to the performance in half‐cell, the sample contained 85 wt% LNMO: 7.5 wt% C65: 7.5 wt% PVDF/NMP combining with the electrolyte 1.5 M LiPF6 in EC:EMC:DMC (2:1:7 – v/v) at 0.5 wt% SN seems to be the optimal condition for further full‐cell. In addition, the full‐cell with N/P = 1.3 displays a remarkable initial capacity of 118.75 mAh g−1, a Coulombic efficiency of 91.64%, and a superior gravimetric energy density of 537.71 mWh g−1. Moreover, it maintains a capacity retention of around 58% at the current density of 0.1C after 100 cycles. As a result, this study presents an optimal solution to augment the material's potential for commercialization in the immediate future.
A new cis‐clerodane‐type furanoditerpenoid from the leaves of Tinospora crispa with inhibitory effect on LPS induced NO production in RAW 264.7 cells
Authors: Van Quoc Nguyen , Yen Pham Hai , Tai Bui Huu , Thu Vu Kim , Giang Le Duc , Hang Dan Thi Thuy , Van Kiem Phan
Published: October 2024

Three cis‐clerodane‐type furanoditerpenoids (1‐3) including one new compound named tinocrioside D (1) together with four known compounds (4‐7) were isolated from the leaves of Tinospora crispa. Their chemical structures were determined based on the 1D, 2D‐NMR, HR‐ESI‐MS, and ECD data analyses in comparison with the reported data. Compounds 1–3 showed weak inhibition of LPS‐induced NO production in mouse mononuclear macrophages.
Variation in diurnal and nocturnal movements distances revealed in wintering dabbling ducks in the Mississippi Alluvial Valley
Authors: Osborne Douglas C. , Askren Ryan J. , Phelps Starla D. , Osborne Tiffany L. , Henson Jerad R. , Nicolai Christopher A.
Published: October 2024

Movement of waterfowl during winter is central to resource acquisition and mortality avoidance, despite the imminent risk to survival and overall fitness induced by hunting disturbance and energy expenditure. Weather and other environmental conditions may influence movement by altering resource needs, in which ducks must balance the trade‐offs of resource acquisition and risk management. We compared how environmental factors influenced total daily diurnal and nocturnal movement distances of three dabbling duck species wintering in the Mississippi Alluvial Valley. We estimated total daily diurnal and nocturnal movement distances of green‐winged teal (Anas crecca; n = 51), American wigeon (Mareca americana; n = 38), and mallards (Anas platyrhynchos; n = 31) using backpack transmitters during the winter period of February–November 2020–2021 and 2021–2022. We used linear mixed effects models to model the influence of weather, hunt season, day of season, and sex on total diurnal and nocturnal movement distances by species. Green‐winged teal moved 7.7% further during the nocturnal period (x̅ = 3.38 km; SE = 0.32; p < 0.001) than during the diurnal period (x̅ = 3.13 km SE = 0.10), while American wigeon and mallards moved 36.6% (x̅ = 4.95 km; SE = 0.20; p < 0.001) and 28.1% (x̅ = 4.39 km; SE = 0.23; p < 0.001) further during the diurnal period than the nocturnal period (x̅ = 3.42 km, SE = 0.28 and x̅ = 3.31 km, SE = 0.22), respectively. Fine‐scale movement distances during the diurnal period were weakly associated with environmental covariates for all species. Conversely, moon illumination influenced nocturnal movement distances for all species. Nightly movement distances of mallards increased by 2.1 times from new to full moon during the hunting season. Conversely, there were no changes in nocturnal movement distance during pre‐hunt and post‐hunt periods when hunting disturbance was absent. In the face of intensifying environmental pressures on movement patterns in dabbling duck populations, this research demonstrates a behavioral response to moon illumination as a mechanism for moving about the landscape for resource acquisition in the presence of human disturbances that induce risk, such as hunting.
Nonmedical cannabis legalization policy in Canada: Has commercialization been a pivotal mistake for public health?
Authors: Fischer Benedikt , Hall Wayne , Jutras‐Aswad Didier , Myran Daniel
Published: October 2024

Canada implemented the legalization of nonmedical cannabis use and supply in 2018. Initial blueprints for the legalization policy framework emphasized public health protection as a priority principle and objective, including related policy design parameters and regulatory restrictions (e.g., strict access and distribution control, advertisement/promotion ban, etc.) also as informed by adverse experiences from alcohol/tobacco control. Conversely, Canada's present legalization ecology is characterized by increasingly far‐reaching commercialization; this includes an extensive for‐profit cannabis production and retail industry producing large sales volumes that centrally include high‐risk cannabis products, with many public health‐oriented provisions hollowed out or circumvented in practice. While key cannabis‐related health problem indicators have increased through legalization, mounting evidence suggests that these adverse outcome dynamics, to a crucial extent, have been accelerated by commercialization aspects of legalization. Meanwhile, since legalization the cannabis industry has pushed for further rollbacks of public health‐oriented restrictions for benefits of increased competitiveness. Using the Canadian case study, we focus on the possible pitfalls and adverse effects of commercialization dynamics for public health‐oriented cannabis legalization. Also since commercialization‐related developments and outcomes are hard to reverse, we urge jurisdictions planning cannabis legalization reforms to carefully take consider related evidence and dynamics when assembling their legalization policy frameworks.
Size‐dependent buckling analysis of functionally graded nanoplate coupled with piezoelectric layers resting on orthotropic foundation based on surface piezo‐elasticity theory
Authors: Arani Amir Hossein Soltan , Ghorbanpour Arani Ali , Maraghi Zahra Khoddami
Published: October 2024

In this study, a refined plate theory by considering stretching effects extended to investigation of quasi‐3D size‐dependent buckling analysis of a functionally graded simply supported nanoplate integrated with piezoelectric face‐sheets resting on orthotropic foundation by taking into account the surface effects. The power law is used to calculate the material properties in the functionally graded core in which the non‐homogeneous core properties are continuously changing along the thickness. Due to the consideration of functionally graded materials and due to the asymmetry in the distribution of material properties in the core, the middle plane and the neutral plane do not coincide. Hence, to consider a reference plane, the concept of a neutral surface is considered. The kinematics of nanoplate are formulated with nonlocal higher order shear deformation theory based on nonlocal strain gradient theory. Additionally, the surface effect is modeled based on surface piezo‐elasticity theory. To check the accuracy and efficiency of the current model, a comprehensive validation and comparative study has been conducted based on the results obtained and the results found in the previous literature. Finally, a comprehensive study is conducted to investigate the effect of various parameters, including different foundations, residual stress, surface effects, stretching effect, neutral surface, aspect ratio, thickness ratio, nanlocal parameter, length scale parameter, gradient index, and initial voltage, which are examined on critical buckling load of nanoplate in details. It is expected that the results of the current study should be utilized in designing micro/nano‐electro‐mechanical systems components based on smart nanostructures.
Connecting and Creating Narratives: Interrogating Myth, Legends, and the Anthropocene in Amitav Ghosh’s Gun Island
Authors: Roy Paddaja
Published: October 2024

Myths and legends provide a narrative platform for collective dreaming. In the context of the Anthropocene, myths and legends are employed to, ‘read the spaces around the protagonist by giving the natural world itself agency and identity and complexity’ (Callaghan 2015, 80). Thus, along with providing a narrative framework, the use of myths and legends in storytelling not only aids us in forming a kinship with worlds other than those of humans but also offers a space to explore the idea of identity in the context of eco-precarity and the crises of the present time. This chapter investigates Indian writer Amitav Ghosh’s use of myths and legends as narrative structure in Gun Island. and how myths and legends are juxtaposed with the spatial and temporal configuration of the novel to facilitate a platform for addressing the concerns of the environment in the precarious era of climate change and Anthropocene. This study relies extensively on Dipesh Chakrabarty’s idea of decentering the human concerning the planetary and the global, and Pramod K. Nayar’s assessment of eco-precarity. Thus, this chapter looks into the myths and legends depicted in the novel to focus on the question of identity in the terrain of a transitioning ecological civilisation taking into account the precarious state of the environment as a result of human interference. Attempting an ecocritical reading of the text, this study contextualises the myths and legends to highlight the narrative structure as well as position the novel in the wider frame of ecocriticism and Anthropocene.
Cerebral haemodynamics and intracranial pressure during haemorrhagic shock and resuscitation with total endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta in an animal model
Authors: Bader Sam Er , Brorsson C. , Löfgren N. , Löfgren F. , Blind P-J. , Sundström N. , Öman M. , Olivecrona M.
Published: October 2024

Purpose

To assess changes of cerebral haemodynamic and intracranial pressure (ICP) in animals, with or without elevated ICP, during controlled haemorrhagic shock and resuscitation with Total REBOA (tREBOA).

Method

In 22 anaesthetized and normoventilated pigs, after placement of catheters for monitoring invasive proximal blood pressure (pMAP), ICP, and vital parameters, and 60 min stabilisation phase, a controlled haemorrhagic shock (HS), was conducted. In 11 pigs (EICPG), an elevated ICP of 25–30 mmHg at the end HS was achieved by simulating an epidural mass. In 11 pigs (NICPG), the ICP was normal. tREBOA was then applied for 120 min. The changes of pMAP and ICP were followed, and cerebral perfusion pressure (CPP) calculated. The integrity of the autoregulation was estimated using a calculated Modified-Long Pressure Reactivity Index (mL-PRx).

Results

After stabilisation, hemodynamics and physiological parameters were similar and normal in both groups. At the end of the HS, ICP was 16 mmHg in NICPG vs. 32 in EICPG (p = 0.0010). CPP was 30 mmHg in NICPG vs. 6 mmHg in EICPG (p = 0.0254). After aorta occlusion CPP increased immediately in both groups reaching after 15 min up to104 mmHg in NICPG vs. 126 mmHg in EICPG. Cerebrovascular reactivity seems to be altered during bleeding and occlusion phases in both groups with positive mL-PRx. The alteration was more pronounced in EICPG, but reversible in both groups.

Conclusion

tREBOA is lifesaving by restoration the cerebral circulation defined as CPP in animals with HS with normal or elevated ICP. Despite the observation of short episodes of cerebral autoregulation impairment during the occlusion, mainly in EICPG, tREBOA seems to be an effective tool for improving cerebral perfusion in HS that extends the crucial early window sometimes known as the “golden hour” for resuscitation even after a traumatic brain injury.
Crypto airdrops: An evolutionary approach
Authors: Allen Darcy W. E.
Published: October 2024

Airdrops are a mechanism by which blockchain-based projects distribute digital tokens to users at zero cost. Billions of dollars of tokens have been airdropped for reasons such as marketing and decentralisation. The distribution criteria that projects have designed (e.g. previous user activity on the platform) have become more complex as different types of users adapt to receive a larger airdrop. This paper argues that coevolutionary theory can help us to understand the unique phenomenon of airdrop design, where participants (projects and users) strategically adapt over time and across different blockchain ecosystems. Nine airdrop case studies show an expanding set of innovative airdrop strategies (e.g. airdrops requiring additional activities to claim). The evolutionary analysis also implies changes in airdrop design (e.g. multi-round airdrops to facilitate learning) and further strategic innovation. Ultimately, this paper offers a new platform to apply the tools of evolutionary economics, exploring a unique process of innovation and evolution.
Chronic nonbacterial osteomyelitis in neuroradiology – behavior and evolution of vertebral and mandibular lesions on imaging
Authors: Silva José Sá , Bettencourt Sofia , Madureira Inês , Conde Marta , Conceição Carla
Published: October 2024

Background

Chronic nonbacterial osteomyelitis (CNO) is a rare non-infectious inflammatory musculoskeletal disease where imaging plays a key diagnostic role. Vertebral and mandibular lesions are frequent manifestations, meaning their awareness is crucial for the neuroradiologist to avoid delays in diagnosis and treatment.

Objective

Characterize vertebral and mandibular CNO lesions on imaging to assist practicing neuroradiologists in better identifying this disease.

Materials and methods

Retrospective review of all CNO patients of our pediatric center, including only patients with vertebral or mandibular lesions. All imaging exams were analyzed to record lesion characteristics.

Results

We included 13 patients (six male). The mean age of onset was 12.3 years. Ten patients had only vertebral lesions, two had only mandibular lesions, and one had both. For patients with vertebral lesions, the median number of levels affected was three, 81.8% had multiple levels affected, 90.0% had dorsal spine lesions, 72.7% had platyspondyly, and 81.8% had inflammatory changes. All vertebral lesions had at least partial resolution of inflammatory findings, the mean time of lesion activity was 2.5 years, and recurrence occurred in 27.3%. Three patients had sacral lesions, all with sacroiliitis. In patients with mandibular lesions, all had unilateral lesions involving the mandibular ramus, all had hyperostosis, periosteal reaction, bone edema, and soft tissue inflammation, all had partial resolution on follow-up, and one had recurrence.

Conclusion

CNO vertebral lesions are not rare, are often multiple, predominantly affect dorsal levels, and most result in vertebral height loss. Resolution of vertebral inflammatory lesions is frequent, but so is recurrence. Sacral lesions may be present and result in sacroiliitis. The mandible may be a site of unifocal disease, typically affecting the ramus, with prominent bony changes and soft tissue inflammation.

Graphical Abstract
The Long-Term Consequences of Family Violence Victimization: An Umbrella Review of Longitudinal Meta-Analyses on Child Maltreatment and Intimate Partner Violence
Authors: Burghart Matthias , Backhaus Sophia
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Child maltreatment (CM) and intimate partner violence (IPV) can have far-reaching adverse consequences to psychological and physical health. While multiple evidence syntheses support this, they are typically limited by a narrow outcome focus, rely on cross-sectional studies, and lack true clinical impact estimates.

Method

We conducted a preregistered umbrella review of meta-analyses only including prospective and longitudinal studies examining the long-term consequences of CM and IPV. We also critically appraised the included meta-analyses on their methodological quality and assessed the quality of evidence for each outcome. We calculated ORs by family victimization type and outcome, and population attributable fractions (PAFs) to estimate the true clinical impact of violence.

Results

Our search yielded 18 meta-analyses, covering over 150 primary studies and more than 3 million individuals. The follow-up periods ranged from 1 to 17 years, with a median of 5 years. CM and IPV were significantly linked to 16 out of 19 adverse psychiatric, psychosocial, and physical health outcomes. While the methodological quality was moderate to high, the quality of evidence was generally lower. PAFs indicated that up to a quarter of cases of some psychiatric disorders can be attributed to family violence victimization.

Conclusions

Family violence victimization is clearly linked to a multitude of long-term psychiatric and physical health consequences, and therefore requires action by researchers, policymakers, and practitioners. Recommendations, such as investments into global research and prevention efforts, are provided.
Transforming chaotic and stiff systems to improve numerical accuracy
Authors: Scheffel Jan
Published: October 2024

Systems of differential equations can exhibit chaotic or stiff behavior under specific conditions, posing challenges for time-stepping numerical methods. For explicit methods, the required time step resolution significantly exceeds the resolution associated with the smoothness of the exact solution for specified accuracy. In order to improve efficiency, the question arises whether transformation to asymptotically stable solutions can be performed, for which neighbouring solutions converge towards each other at a controlled rate. Employing the concept of local Lyapunov exponents, it is shown that chaotic differential equations can indeed be transformed to obtain high accuracy, whereas stiff equations cannot. For instance, the accuracy of explicit fourth order Runge–Kutta solution of the Lorenz chaotic equations can be increased by several orders of magnitude. Alternatively, the time step can be significantly extended with retained accuracy. The transform method applies broadly to chaotic systems, including weather prediction and turbulence.
Towards a Better Uncertainty Quantification in Automated Valuation Models
Authors: Pollestad Arne Johan , Næss Arild Brandrud , Oust Are
Published: October 2024

This study introduces a novel framework for quantifying prediction uncertainty in automated valuation models (AVMs), crucial tools in modern real estate finance. While non-linear AVMs excel in predictive performance, their limited methods for assessing prediction uncertainty reduces reliability and practical utility. We address this gap by proposing an approach for quantifying the uncertainty associated with predicted house prices and by introducing a model-specific AVM uncertainty estimate (AVMU) for AVM comparisons. Using a dataset of 51,747 historical apartment transactions in Oslo, Norway, we train three AVMs (XGBoost, random forest, support vector machine) to predict sales prices. Thereafter, we develop three base uncertainty estimators (direct loss estimation, bootstrap ensemble, quantile regression) and three meta estimators (average regressor, voting regressor, stacked generalization) for uncertainty quantification. Conformal calibration aligns the outputted uncertainty estimates from the six estimators with standard deviations of corresponding prediction errors. Having strong positive correlations with observed absolute prediction errors, the calibrated uncertainty estimators are shown to effectively capture prediction uncertainty. While the direct loss estimation excels among base estimators, the voting regressor and stacked generalization meta estimators consistently outperform it. Furthermore, by using the AVMU estimate from the stacked generalization meta estimator we can successfully identify the best-performing AVM for three separate apartment portfolios without knowing true sales prices. This alignment of the mean estimated prediction uncertainty with observed deviations underlines the utility of pre-factual AVMU estimates for model comparisons. In conclusion, our framework helps bridge prediction accuracy and uncertainty for AVMs, enhancing their reliability and supporting informed decision making for stakeholders.
DAP-CBR: enhancing Bitcoin block propagation efficiency using dynamic compact block relay’s prefilling of transactions
Authors: Chin Zi Hau , Baskaran Vishnu Monn , Tan Chee Keong , Tan Ian K. T. , Yap Timothy T. V.
Published: October 2024

This study examines the potential of BIP-152’s Compact Block Relay (CBR) to enhance the Bitcoin network. This work explores the block propagation efficiency through dynamic prefilling of transactions. In addition, an enhanced CBR model is proposed to reduce superfluous transaction requests, thus improving the block distribution process. The analysis considers the impact of the dynamically prefilled transactions on Bitcoin network scalability, comparing the advantages and disadvantages of this approach. We also conduct a comparative study of fixed-size and dynamically sized prefilled transactions to highlight the importance of adapting to network demands. Prefilling a fixed number of transactions without considering demand can cause inefficiencies and strain the network with unnecessary bandwidth use. Indiscriminate prefilling exacerbates these issues by inflating data packets unnecessarily, increasing latency and reducing network responsiveness. Our research indicates that the proposed solution can significantly reduce the number of round-trips between network nodes by an average of 29.77% and block reconstruction latency by 39.10% when compared with the CBR.
Stellenwechsel im Berufsverlauf – Konsequenzen für die Personalbindung in Kindertageseinrichtungen
Authors: Fuchs-Rechlin Kirsten , Nachtigall Clarissa
Published: October 2024

Trotz kontinuierlichen Anstiegs der Beschäftigten in Kindertageseinrichtungen ist die Personalnot derzeit groß. Dies geht mit erheblichen Belastungen des Personals einher. In der Vergangenheit wurde bei der Fachkräftegewinnung vor allem auf den Ausbau der Fachschulen für Sozialpädagogik gesetzt. Zunehmend rückt jedoch die Erkenntnis in den Blick, dass zur Fachkräftesicherung auch die Bindung des Bestandspersonals gehört, denn Stellenwechsel im Arbeitsfeld führen nicht nur zu Know-how-Verlusten, sondern erfordern auch ständige Rekrutierungs- und Einarbeitungsprozesse. In diesem Beitrag wird auf der Basis qualitativer Daten untersucht, welche Einflussgrößen es für Stellenwechsel gibt und welche Berufsverläufe sich aus der Chronologie der Stellenwechsel rekonstruieren lassen. In theoretischer Hinsicht werden Stellenwechsel als Übergänge im Berufsverlauf verstanden, die sich als (An‑)Passungsprozesse zwischen Person und Umwelt interpretieren lassen. Es kristallisierten sich fünf Laufbahntypen heraus. Die Ergebnisse der qualitativen Analyse werden abschließend im Hinblick auf deren Potenziale für die Personalbindung als Strategie der Fachkräftesicherung diskutiert.
Evaluation of the Properties and Compositions of Blended Bio-jet Fuels Derived from Fast Pyrolysis Bio-oil made from Wood According to Aging Test
Authors: Jeon Hwayeon , Youn Jumin , Park Jo Yong , Yim Eui-Soon , Ha Jeong-Myeong , Park Young-Kwon , Lee Jae Woo , Kim Jae-Kon
Published: October 2024

The aviation industry has set ambitious goals for reducing carbon emissions, with the International Civil Aviation Organization targeting net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. Bio-jet fuel is expected to play a crucial role in achieving this target, and the demand for bio-jet fuel is projected to rapidly increase. Bio-oil from fast pyrolysis of lignin, such as waste wood, is considered a promising alternative for production of bio-jet fuel through processes such as hydrodeoxygenation. In this study, the physical properties and compositions of bio-jet fuel produced from wood-derived pyrolysis bio-oil blended with petroleum-based jet fuel as well as their changes during 16 weeks storage were investigated. Consistently, 0%, 10%, 50%, and 100% blended bio-jet fuels were prepared. After 16 weeks of aging, the total acid number of the all-blended bio-jet fuel showed a sharp increase from 12 weeks, reaching over 0.1 mg KOH/g. Additionally, kinematic viscosity showed a steady increase over 16 weeks whereas oxidative stability decreased by approximately 20% at 16 weeks for the 100% bio-jet fuel alone. The final boiling point increased by up to 20% in higher blends of bio-jet fuel and the average molecular weight increased. Bio-jet fuel has a high olefin content, which can further increase during storage, leading to a decrease in the combustion characteristics. This study suggests that using up to 10% the bio-jet fuel in aircraft is safe considering storage stability, but further research is required to confirm this finding.
Continuous Blood Pressure Indices During the First 72 Hours and Functional Outcome in Patients with Spontaneous Intracerebral Hemorrhage
Authors: Mengel Annerose , Siokas Vasileios , Buesink Rebecca , Roesch Sara , Laichinger Kornelia , Ferizi Redina , Dardiotis Efthimios , Sartor-Pfeiffer Jennifer , Single Constanze , Hauser Till-Karsten , Krumbholz Markus , Ziemann Ulf , Feil Katharina
Published: October 2024

Background

Management of intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) is challenged by limited therapeutic options and a complex relationship between blood pressure (BP) dynamics, especially BP variability (BPV) and ICH outcome.

Methods

In an exploratory analysis of prospectively collected data on consecutive patients with nontraumatic ICH between 2015 and 2020, continuous BP accessed via an arterial line extracted from the Intellispace Critical Care and Anesthesia information system (Philips Healthcare) was analyzed over the first 72 h post admission. Arterial lines were used as part of standard clinical practice in the intensive care, ensuring high fidelity and real-time data essential for acute care settings. BPV was assessed through successive variation (SV), standard deviation (SD), and coefficient of variation using all available BP measurements. Multivariate regression models were applied to evaluate the association between BPV indices and functional outcome at 3 months.

Results

Among 261 patients (mean age 69.6 ± 15.2 years, 47.9% female, median National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale [NIHSS] score 6 [interquartile range 2–12]) analyzed, lower systolic BP upon admission (< 140 mm Hg) and lower systolic BPV were significantly associated with favorable outcome, whereas higher diastolic BPV correlated with improved outcomes. In the multivariate analysis, diastolic BPV (SD, SV) within the first 72 h post admission emerged as an independent predictor of good functional outcome (modified Rankin Scale score < 3; odds ratio 1.123, 95% confidence interval CI 1.008–1.184, p = 0.035), whereas systolic BPV (SD) showed a negative association. Patients with better outcomes also exhibited distinct clinical characteristics, including younger age, lower median NIHSS scores, and less prevalence of anticoagulation therapy upon admission.

Conclusions

This study shows the prognostic value of BPV in the acute phase of ICH. Lower systolic BPV (SD) and higher diastolic BPV (SD, SV) were associated with better functional outcomes, challenging traditional BP management strategies. These findings might help to tailor a personalized BP management in ICH.
What’s Impossible about Algorithmic Fairness?
Authors: Sahlgren Otto
Published: October 2024

The now well-known impossibility results of algorithmic fairness demonstrate that an error-prone predictive model cannot simultaneously satisfy two plausible conditions for group fairness apart from exceptional circumstances where groups exhibit equal base rates. The results sparked, and continue to shape, lively debates surrounding algorithmic fairness conditions and the very possibility of building fair predictive models. This article, first, highlights three underlying points of disagreement in these debates, which have led to diverging assessments of the feasibility of fairness in prediction-based decision-making. Second, the article explores whether and in what sense fairness as defined by the conjunction of the implicated fairness conditions is (un)attainable. Drawing on philosophical literature on the concept of feasibility and the role of feasibility in normative theory, I outline a cautiously optimistic argument for the diachronic feasibility of fairness. In line with recent works on the topic, I argue that fairness can be made possible through collective efforts to eliminate inequalities that feed into local decision-making procedures.
Sex, Racial/Ethnic, and Regional Disparities in Pulmonary Embolism Mortality Trends in the USA, 1999–2020
Authors: Eikermann Greta Muriel , Tam Christopher , Eyth Annika , Ludeke Can Martin , Grimme Aline M. , Ramishvili Tina , Borngaesser Felix , Rudolph Maira , Aber Nicole , Stoll Sandra Emily , Kyriacou Corinne M. , Ganz-Lord Fran A. , Karaye Ibraheem M.
Published: October 2024

Background

While the National Institutes of Health emphasize integrating sex as a biological variable into research, specific considerations of sex-related differences in pulmonary embolism (PE) mortality trends remain scarce. This study examines sex-based PE mortality trends across regional and demographic groups in the USA from 1999 to 2020.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of National Center for Health Statistics mortality data from 1999 to 2020 was conducted. Using ICD-10 code I26, PE decedents were identified. Piecewise linear regression assessed sex-based temporal trends in PE mortality by age, race/ethnicity, and census region. Annual percentage changes and average annual percentage changes were derived using Weighted Bayesian Information Criteria. The 95% confidence intervals were estimated using the empirical quantile method.

Results

From 1999 to 2020, a total of 179,273 individuals died in the USA due to PE, resulting in an age-adjusted mortality rate of 2.5 per 100,000 persons (95% CI, 2.5–2.5). While men and women exhibited comparable rates in recent time segments and across most subcategories, a higher mortality trend among males compared to females was observed among non-Hispanic White and Hispanic individuals and residents of the Western US census region. These results remained robust even after excluding data from 2020, accounting for the potential impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Conclusions

Our study highlights sex-based disparities in PE mortality trends in the USA from 1999 to 2020. Despite overall stable mortality rates, higher trends among males were evident in specific demographic groups and regions. These findings emphasize the importance of targeted interventions to mitigate PE-related mortality discrepancies across diverse populations.
MiR-375: it could be a general biomarker of metabolic changes and inflammation in type 1 diabetes patients and their siblings
Authors: Mostafa Eman A. , Ismail Nagwa Abdallah , El Din Abd El Baky Abeer M. Nour , ElShaer Tarek F. , Ashmawy Ingy , Wahby Aliaa Ahmed , Wahed Mai Magdy Abdel , Hamdy Abd El Aziz Shereen
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is a chronic autoimmune illness that results in loss of pancreatic beta cells and insulin insufficiency. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are linked to immune system functions contributing to the pathophysiology of T1D, miRNA-375 is significantly expressed in the human pancreas and its circulatory levels might correspond to beta cell alterations. Pancreatic islet cell antibodies (ICA) and Glutamic acid decarboxylase antibodies (GADA) have roles in autoimmune pathogenesis and are predictive markers of T1D. The aim of this work was to detect serum level changes of miRNA-375, ICA, and GADA in T1D patients, and their siblings compared to healthy controls and correlate them with T1D biochemical parameters.

Methods

The study included 66 T1D patients (32 males and 34 females; age range 3–18 years), 22 patients’ siblings (13 males and 9 females; age range 4–17 years), and 23 healthy controls (7 males and 16 females; age range 4–17 years). MiRNA-375 levels were measured using quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), while ICA and GADA levels were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Data analysis was done utilizing SPSS-17 software.

Results

MiR-375 levels were downregulated in T1D patients and further decreased in their siblings when compared to healthy controls. Furthermore, miR-375 exhibited inverse correlations with HbA1c levels but no correlations with Total Insulin Dose, disease duration, or autoantibodies (GADA & ICA).

Conclusion

Our study indicates that miR-375 is significantly downregulated in children with T1D and their siblings, suggesting its potential role as a biomarker for beta-cell function and glycemic control.
The mirror Clemens–Schmid sequence
Authors: Doran Charles F. , Thompson Alan
Published: October 2024

We introduce a four-term long exact sequence that relates the cohomology of a smooth variety admitting a projective morphism onto a projective base to the cohomology of the open set obtained by removing the preimage of a general linear section. We show that this sequence respects the perverse Leray filtration and induces exact sequences of mixed Hodge structures on its graded pieces. We conjecture that this exact sequence should be thought of as mirror to the Clemens–Schmid sequence, which describes the cohomology of degenerations. We exhibit this mirror relationship explicitly for all Type II and many Type III degenerations of K3 surfaces. In three dimensions, we show that for Tyurin degenerations of Calabi–Yau threefolds our conjecture is a consequence of existing mirror conjectures, and we explicitly verify our conjecture for a more complicated degeneration of the quintic threefold.
Can grit predict well-being?
Authors: Quinn Kristen M. , Huang Kevin , Sama Vineeth , Donahue Colleen , Abbott Andrea M.
Published: October 2024

Background

Burnout affects over 50% of surgical residents, and efforts focused on well-being during training are needed. Grit, defined as perseverance toward achieving long-term goals, is a measure of mental fortitude and may be protective against burnout and predictive of well-being.

Methods

An anonymous electronic survey was distributed to surgical and non-surgical resident trainees as well as general surgery faculty. Grit was measured using a 12-question validated Grit Scale and well-being was measured using a 5-question validated WHO-5 Well-Being Index. Linear regression was used to identify associations between post-graduate year (PGY), grit, and well-being. Student’s t-test was used to compare grit and well-being scores among male and female trainees.

Results

23/38 (60.5%) surgical residents completed the survey. Grit scores ranged from 3 to 4.67 (scale of 1–5) and well-being scores from 24 to 84 (scale of 0–100). There was no correlation between grit and well-being (R2 = 0.01, p < 0.63) or between PGY class and grit (R2 = 0.06, p < 0.27). However, there was a positive correlation between PGY class and well-being (R2 = 0.18, p < 0.05). Female residents trended towards higher grit (4.12 female vs 3.76 male, p < 0.07) and lower well-being (53 vs 60, p < 0.18). Compared with non-surgical residents, there were no significant differences in mean grit or well-being. The pooled trainee group demonstrated a positive correlation between PGY class and well-being (R2 = 0.09). Faculty reported higher grit (4, p < 0.03) and well-being (68.8, p < 0.002) than residents.

Conclusion

Despite high overall grit, trainees experience relatively low well-being; this effect is exaggerated in females. Grit and well-being trend to increase with PGY years and as faculty. The lack of association between grit and well-being in trainees suggests that intrinsic grit is not enough; well-being is impacted by external factors and encourages future work to identify and modify these factors for a positive impact on trainees.
Imaging of body complications in pediatric oncology: a review of the literature and our experience
Authors: Cariello Valentina , Lombardo Patrizia , Baldari Diana , Smaldone Maria Cristina , Pizzicato Paolo , Rossi Antonio , Brunese Luca , Paviglianiti Giuseppe , Brunese Maria Chiara , Minelli Rocco , Rossi Eugenio
Published: October 2024

Childhood cancer is Aa rare condition, despite being the primary cause of disease-related deaths among children, particularly in developed countries. Along with increasing incidence rates, there has been a global decline in the number of deaths from childhood malignancies due to significant advances in diagnosis, risk stratification, treatment, response assessment, and surveillance. As a result, children with cancer are experiencing better outcomes with increased survival rates, leading to a higher incidence of life-threatening complications, including recurrence and second malignancies, compared to adults. Radiology plays a crucial role in detecting these conditions early to reduce their morbidity and mortality. However, only a limited number of studies have explored the sequelae in the pediatric cancer population and their radiologic implications. This article aims to provide an overview of imaging complications of cancer and cancer-related treatment unique to the pediatric population and to review the relevant literature.